bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antidiarrheal Activity of Hydromethanolic Root Extract and Solvent Fractions of Clutia abyssinica Jaub. & Spach. (Euphorbiaceae) in Mice
Authors: Zayede Dessie , Mulaw Tafere , Kahaliw Wubayehu
Published: January 2020

Introduction. Diarrheal diseases are associated with an estimated 1.3 million deaths annually, with most occurring in resource‐limited countries; up to 25% of deaths in young children living in Africa and southeast Asia are attributable to acute gastroenteritis. Due to limitations associated with various treatments available, the need for developing newer drugs is imperative. Objective. This study was aimed to evaluate the antidiarrheal activity of root extract and fractions of C. abyssinica Jaub. & Spach. (Euphorbiaceae) in mice. Methods. After plant extraction and subsequent fractionation of the crude extract, the antidiarrheal activity was screened in castor oil induced diarrhea, castor oil induced enteropooling, and gastrointestinal motility test models accordingly. Result. The root extract of C. abyssinica produced neither visible signs of toxicity nor death at a single dose of 2000 mg/kg, suggesting the LD50 > 2000 mg/kg. In the castor oil induced diarrheal model, the highest dose of the extract (400 mg/kg) showed a maximal inhibition in the onset (158.00 ± 14.64, p < 0.01, in minutes) of wet feces as compared to the negative control. In the enteropooling model, 400 mg/kg treated mice showed a significant reduction in volume (0.47 ± 0.02 ml, p < 0.01) and weight (0.50 ± 0.02 g, p < 0.05) of intestinal content as compared to the vehicle treated group. In the gastrointestinal motility test, the hydromethanolic root extract of C. abyssinica significantly inhibited the intestinal transit of charcoal meal at 400 mg/kg. In addition, chloroform and n‐butanol fractions significantly reduced the distance moved by charcoal at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, whereas aqueous fraction showed a significant effect at all test doses. The highest antidiarrheal index was observed at the maximal dose of extract and each fraction. Conclusion. The results obtained showed that the findings provide scientific support for the folkloric repute of C. abyssinica roots as treatment of diarrhea.
An Improved Backward/Forward Sweep Power Flow Method Based on a New Network Information Organization for Radial Distribution Systems
Authors: Ouali Saad , Cherkaoui Abdeljabbar
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a load flow algorithm based on the backward/forward sweep principle, flexible with network topology changes, with an improvement in ensuring a minimum number of searching for connections between nodes in the calculation sequence in the forward and the backward sweep, by organizing the radial distribution system information into a main line and its derivations. The proposed load flow analysis is easy to implement and does not require the use of any complex renumbering of branches and nodes, or any matrix calculation, with the only use of linear equations based on Kirchhoff’s formulation.
The Role and Potential Pathogenic Mechanism of Particulate Matter in Childhood Asthma: A Review and Perspective
Authors: Xu Xuchen , Zhang Jianing , Yang Xin , Zhang Yuanyuan , Chen Zhimin
Published: January 2020

Asthma, the most common chronic respiratory disease in children, affects numerous people worldwide. Accumulating evidence suggests that exposure to high levels of particulate matter (PM), either acutely or chronically, is associated with the exacerbation and incidence of pediatric asthma. However, the detailed pathogenic mechanisms by which PM contributes to the incidence of asthma remain largely unknown. In this short review, we summarize studies of relationships between PM and pediatric asthma and recent advances on the fundamental mechanisms of PM-related asthma, with emphases on cell death regulation and immune system responses. We further discuss the inadequacy of current studies and give a perspective on the prevention strategies for pediatric asthma.
NPC Three-Level Inverter Open-Circuit Fault Diagnosis Based on Adaptive Electrical Period Partition and Random Forest
Authors: Liu Shiyuan , Qian Xu , Wan Hong , Ye Zongbin , Wu Shoupeng , Ren Xiaohong
Published: January 2020

Fault detection can increase the reliability and efficiency of power electronic converters employed in power systems. Among the converters in the power system, a Neutral Point Clamped (NPC) three-level inverter is most commonly used to drive electric motors. In this paper, a new approach for open-circuit fault detection and location of the NPC three-level inverter for a shifting process using a constant voltage-to-frequency ratio is proposed. In order to diagnose open-circuit fault in as short a time as possible, an adaptive electrical period partition (AEPP) algorithm is proposed to pick single electrical periods from real-time three-phase current signals. The Maximal Overlap Discrete Wavelet Transformation (MODWT) and Park’s Vector Modulus (PVM) are used for feature analysis and normalization of electrical period signals. The statistical characteristics of the electrical period signals are extracted, and a random forest model is constructed to realize the state classification. Compared with the traditional fault diagnosis method, the proposed algorithm finds fault locations quickly and accurately. The effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed algorithm are verified by experiments.
Multiparticle Production and Initial Quasitemperature from Proton-Induced Carbon Collisions at pLab=31 GeV/c
Authors: Yang Pei-Pin , Duan Mai-Ying , Liu Fu-Hu , Sahoo Raghunath
Published: January 2020

The momentum spectra of charged pions (π+ and π−) and kaons (K+ and K−), as well as protons (p), produced in the beam proton-induced collisions in a 90 cm long graphite target (proton-carbon (p-C) collisions) at the beam momentum pLab=31 GeV/c are studied in the framework of a multisource thermal model by using Boltzmann distribution and the Monte Carlo method. The theoretical model results are approximately in agreement with the experimental data measured by the NA61/SHINE Collaboration. The related free parameters (effective temperature, rapidity shifts, and fraction of nonleading protons) and derived quantities (average transverse momentum and initial quasitemperature) under given experimental conditions are obtained. The considered free parameters and derived quantities are shown to be strongly dependent on the emission angle over a range from 0 to 380 mrad and weakly dependent on longitudinal position (graphite target thickness) over a range from 0 to 90 cm.
Adenosine Signaling Is Prognostic for Cancer Outcome and Has Predictive Utility for Immunotherapeutic Response
Authors: Sidders Ben , Zhang Pei , Goodwin Kelly , O'Connor Greg , Russell Deanna L. , Borodovsky Alexandra , Armenia Joshua , McEwen Robert , Linghu Bolan , Bendell Johanna C. , Bauer Todd M. , Patel Manish R. , Falchook Gerald S. , Merchant Melinda , Pouliot Gayle , Barrett J. Carl , Dry Jonathan R. , Woessner Rich , Sachsenmeier Kris
Published: January 2020

Purpose:

There are several agents in early clinical trials targeting components of the adenosine pathway including A2AR and CD73. The identification of cancers with a significant adenosine drive is critical to understand the potential for these molecules. However, it is challenging to measure tumor adenosine levels at scale, thus novel, clinically tractable biomarkers are needed.

Experimental Design:

We generated a gene expression signature for the adenosine signaling using regulatory networks derived from the literature and validated this in patients. We applied the signature to large cohorts of disease from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and cohorts of immune checkpoint inhibitor–treated patients.

Results:

The signature captures baseline adenosine levels in vivo (r2 = 0.92, P = 0.018), is reduced after small-molecule inhibition of A2AR in mice (r2 = −0.62, P = 0.001) and humans (reduction in 5 of 7 patients, 70%), and is abrogated after A2AR knockout. Analysis of TCGA confirms a negative association between adenosine and overall survival (OS, HR = 0.6, P < 2.2e–16) as well as progression-free survival (PFS, HR = 0.77, P = 0.0000006). Further, adenosine signaling is associated with reduced OS (HR = 0.47, P < 2.2e–16) and PFS (HR = 0.65, P = 0.0000002) in CD8+ T-cell–infiltrated tumors. Mutation of TGFβ superfamily members is associated with enhanced adenosine signaling and worse OS (HR = 0.43, P < 2.2e–16). Finally, adenosine signaling is associated with reduced efficacy of anti-PD1 therapy in published cohorts (HR = 0.29, P = 0.00012).

Conclusions:

These data support the adenosine pathway as a mediator of a successful antitumor immune response, demonstrate the prognostic potential of the signature for immunotherapy, and inform patient selection strategies for adenosine pathway modulators currently in development.
Probody Therapeutic Design of 89Zr-CX-072 Promotes Accumulation in PD-L1–Expressing Tumors Compared to Normal Murine Lymphoid Tissue
Authors: Giesen Danique , Broer Linda N. , Lub-de Hooge Marjolijn N. , Popova Irina , Howng Bruce , Nguyen Margaret , Vasiljeva Olga , de Vries Elisabeth G.E. , Pool Martin
Published: January 2020

Purpose:

Probody therapeutic CX-072 is a protease-activatable antibody that is cross-reactive with murine and human programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). CX-072 can be activated in vivo by proteases present in the tumor microenvironment, thereby potentially reducing peripheral, anti–PD-L1-mediated toxicities. To study its targeting of PD-L1–expressing tissues, we radiolabeled CX-072 with the PET isotope zirconium-89 (89Zr).

Experimental Design:

89Zr-labeled CX-072, nonspecific Probody control molecule (PbCtrl) and CX-072 parental antibody (CX-075) were injected in BALB/c nude mice bearing human MDA-MB-231 tumors or C57BL/6J mice bearing syngeneic MC38 tumors. Mice underwent serial PET imaging 1, 3, and 6 days after intravenous injection (pi), followed by ex vivo biodistribution. Intratumoral 89Zr-CX-072 distribution was studied by autoradiography on tumor tissue sections, which were subsequently stained for PD-L1 by IHC. Activated CX-072 species in tissue lysates were detected by Western capillary electrophoresis.

Results:

PET imaging revealed 89Zr-CX-072 accumulation in MDA-MB-231 tumors with 2.1-fold higher tumor-to-blood ratios at 6 days pi compared with 89Zr-PbCtrl. Tumor tissue autoradiography showed high 89Zr-CX-072 uptake in high PD-L1–expressing regions. Activated CX-072 species were detected in these tumors, with 5.3-fold lower levels found in the spleen. Furthermore, 89Zr-CX-072 uptake by lymphoid tissues of immune-competent mice bearing MC38 tumors was low compared with 89Zr-CX-075, which lacks the Probody design.

Conclusions:

89Zr-CX-072 accumulates specifically in PD-L1–expressing tumors with limited uptake in murine peripheral lymphoid tissues. Our data may enable clinical evaluation of 89Zr-CX-072 whole-body distribution as a tool to support CX-072 drug development (NCT03013491).
Determining the Optimal Adjuvant Therapy for Improving Survival in Elderly Patients with Glioblastoma: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis
Authors: Nassiri Farshad , Taslimi Shervin , Wang Justin Z. , Badhiwala Jetan H. , Dalcourt Tatyana , Ijad Nazanin , Pirouzmand Neda , Almenawer Saleh , Stupp Roger , Zadeh Gelareh
Published: January 2020

Purpose:

Older patients with glioblastoma (GBM) are underrepresented in clinical trials. Several abbreviated and standard chemoradiotherapy regimens are advocated with no consensus on the optimal approach. Our objective was to quantitatively evaluate which of these regimens would provide the most favorable survival outcomes in older patients with GBM using a network meta-analysis.

Experimental Design:

MEDLINE, Embase, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library were searched. Patients >60 years of age with histologically confirmed GBM were included. Primary outcome of interest was the pooled HR from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Secondary outcomes of interest included pooled HR from studies controlling for MGMT promoter methylation status, and safety.

Results:

Fourteen studies, including 5 RCTs, reporting 4,561 patients were included. Using highest quality data from RCTs, our network-based approach demonstrated that standard radiotherapy (SRT) and temozolomide (TMZ) provided similar survival benefit when compared with hypofractionated radiotherapy (HRT) and TMZ [HR = 0.90; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.43–1.87], TMZ alone (HR 1.25; 95% CI, 0.69–2.26), HRT alone (HR = 1.34; 95% CI, 0.73–2.45), or SRT alone (HR = 1.43; 95% CI, 0.87–2.36). HRT-TMZ had the highest probability (85%) of improving survival in older patients with GBM followed by SRT-TMZ (72%). Pooled analysis of trials controlling for MGMT promoter methylation status demonstrated that TMZ monotherapy confers similar survival benefit to combined chemoradiotherapy.

Conclusions:

Statistical comparisons using a network approach demonstrates that the common treatment regimens for older patients with GBM in previous RCTs confer similar survival benefits. Adjustments for MGMT promoter methylation status demonstrated that radiotherapy alone was inferior to TMZ-based approaches. Head-to-head comparison of TMZ monotherapy to combined TMZ and radiation is warranted.
Effects and Mechanism of Action of PX-478 in Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy in Mice
Authors: Pan Xiaoyan , Lv Yang
Published: January 2020

Importance: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is an important risk factor for blindness in children due to neovascularization (NV). Hypoxia stimulates the formation of NV, as retinal hypoxia affects the stability and function of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) transcription factors. The purpose of this study is to study the mechanism of ROP and provide theoretical basis for clinical treatment of ROP. Objective: In the present study, we used a mouse model of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR) to demonstrate the effects of the HIF-1α inhibitor PX-478 on OIR, and to determine its mechanism of action, to provide a theoretical basis for the clinical treatment of ROP. Materials and Methods: The OIR mouse model was induced by exposing neonatal mouse pups and their mothers to 75 ± 5% oxygen from postnatal day 7 (P7) to P12, before being returned to room air from P12 to P17. Flat mount analyses were performed at P12 and P17. Hif1a, Hif2a, Hif3a, and Vegfa mRNA were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in OIR mice at P12 and P17. Hif1a and Vegfa mRNA were detected in OIR mice at P12 and P17 treatment with PX-478. Western blot analyses were used to assess the levels of HIF-1α, VEGF-A, and EPO before and after treatment with PX-478 at P12 and P17. Results: Hif1a mRNA was increased in OIR mice at P12 and P17, while Vegfa mRNA was increased at P12 and P17. HIF-1α, VEGF-A, and EPO protein levels were increased in OIR mice at P12 and P17, as compared to control mice at the same age (all p < 0.05). Inhibition of HIF-1α by injection of PX-478 in OIR mice (P9–P16) caused a decrease in the retinal avascular area at P12 and P17 (both p < 0.05), NV areas at P17 (p < 0.05), Vegfa mRNA decreased at P12 and P17, as compared to control mice (p < 0.05), and VEGF-A and EPO protein levels at P12 and P17, as compared to control mice. Our study found that there were PX-478 both retina and vitreous body of OIR. Inhibition of HIF-1α by injection of PX-478 in OIR mice caused a decrease in the retinal avascular area at P12 and P17, NV areas decreased at P17, VEGF-A and EPO protein levels at P12 and P17. Endothelial cell migration assays and cell tube formation indication PX-478 attenuate cell migration and significantly weakened the cell cavity formation under the condition of hypoxia. Conclusion: HIF-1α plays a main role in OIR and can be considered a therapeutic target in OIR by suppressing downstream angiogenic factors, PX-478 decreasing the retinal avascular area and NV.
Twist1: A Double-Edged Sword in Kidney Diseases
Authors: Ren Jiafa , Crowley Steven D.
Published: January 2020

Background: Twist1 is a basic helix-loop-helix domain containing transcription factor that regulates cell differentiation, migration, proliferation, survival, and inflammatory responses by transcriptionally regulating a wide range of downstream target genes. Its homologous protein, Twist2, shares many structural and functional similarities with Twist1. Summary: Accumulating evidence from both preclinical and clinical studies suggests that Twist1 is a pivotal regulator of several forms of renal disease. Twist1 is persistently activated following renal insults, particularly in chronic kidney diseases, and contributes to the renal inflammatory responses, tubular cell transformation programs, and possibly fibroblast activation, all of which are involved in the initiation and progression of kidney diseases. Key Message: This review will specifically focus on Twist1 and outline our understanding of its functions in kidney disorders along with the introduction of Twist2 where pertinent. The thorough knowledge of Twist1’s actions in the pathogenesis of kidney diseases should facilitate the development of novel therapeutics for kidney injury.
Osthole: A Traditional Chinese Medicine for Ocular Anti-Angiogenic Therapy
Authors: Zhang Qiu-Yang , Tao Shu-Ya , Lu Chang , Li Jing-Jing , Li Xiu-Miao , Jiang Qin , Yan Biao
Published: January 2020

Purpose: Osthole is an agent isolated from Cnidium monnieri (L.) Cusson and has been used to treat several disorders. Corneal neovascularization is a sight-threatening condition associated with several inflammatory or infectious ocular disorders. In this study, we investigated the anti-angiogenic effects of osthole on corneal neovascularization and the underlying mechanism. Methods: MTT assay, HE staining, and calcein-AM/propidium iodide staining was conducted to detect the toxicity of osthole in vitro and in vivo. Corneal neovascularization of ICR mice was induced by alkali burn and observed by a slit lamp microscopy on day 7 after alkali injury. EdU assay, Ki67 immunofluorescence assay, Transwell migration assay, and Matrigel assay were conducted to investigate the role of osthole in endothelial angiogenic effects in vitro. Western blots were conducted to investigate the anti-angiogenic mechanism of osthole in corneal neovascularization. Results: Administration of osthole ranging from 0.05 to 25 µM had no detectable cytotoxicity or tissue toxicity in vivo and in vitro. Topical administration of osthole inhibited corneal neovascularization induced by alkali burn. Osthole decreased the proliferation, migration, and tube-formation of endothelial cells induced by VEGF. Osthole inhibited endothelial angiogenic functions through blocking the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, JNK, and p38. Conclusion: Our study provides evidence that osthole is a promising drug for the treatment of corneal neovascularization.
Стан системи антиоксидантного захисту в піддослідних тварин внаслідок модельованої поєднаної абдоміно-скелетної травми та ішемії-реперфузії нижніх кінцівок
Authors: Garian S. V.
Published: January 2020

Мета роботи: вивчити вплив реперфузії кінцівки в моделі поєднаної абдоміно-скелетної травми на зміни показників антиоксидантного захисту.

Матеріали і методи. В експерименті використали 130 статевозрілих білих щурів-самців лінії Wistar масою 190–220 г, які знаходилися на стандартному раціоні віварію.

Усіх тварин поділили на групи: контрольну (КГ) та три дослідні (ГД): контрольна група – інтактні тварини (10 тварин); перша дослідна група (ГД–1) – моделювали перелом стегна, масивну зовнішню кровотечу та ішемію-реперфузію нижніх кінцівок (40 тварин); друга дослідна група (ГД–2) – моделювали перелом стегна, масивну зовнішню крововтрату та закриту травму органів черевної порожнини (40 тварин); третя дослідна група (ГД–3) – моделювали закриту травму органів черевної порожнини, скелетну травму, масивну зовнішню крововтрату та ішемію-реперфузію нижніх кінцівок (40 тварин).

Тварин дослідних груп виводили з експерименту в умовах тіопентало- натрієвого наркозу методом тотального кровопускання з серця через 3, 7, 14 та 21 добу після моделювання травм. Для дослідження забирали кров тварин.

У сироватці крові визначали активність каталази, та враховуючи отримані попередньо дані щодо вмісту реагентів до тіобарбітурової кислоти (ТБК-активних продуктів), розраховували антиоксидантно-прооксидантний індекс.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. Отримані результати дають змогу стверджувати, що реперфузія кінцівки зумовлює розвиток тривалого оксидативного стресу, у відповідь на який зростає рівень каталази. Найбільш виражені зміни зафіксовано у групі піддослідних тварин, де поряд з поєднаною абдоміно-скелетною травмою була наявна ішемія реперфузія нижніх кінцівок. Саме вона була причиною розвитку тривалих системних змін та відповідно дисбалансу адаптаційно-компенсаторних механізмів, спрямованих на ліквідацію патологічних чинників.

Поєднання абдоміно-скелетної травми та ішемії-реперфузії нижніх кінцівок викликає спричиняє оксидативний стрес та виснаження антиоксидантних систем, про що свідчить зниження рівня АПІ, який через 21 добу був статистично менше контрольних показників (р<0,05) на 13,3 %.
Вплив експериментальної гострої крововтрати, ускладненої ішемією-реперфузією кінцівки, на діурез і швидкість клубочкової фільтрації
Authors: Shatsky V. V. , Hudyma A. A. , Blyzniuk R. V.
Published: January 2020

Мета роботи: зʼясувати вплив гострої крововтрати, ускладненої ішемією-реперфузією кінцівки, на діурез і швидкість клубочкової фільтрації та оцінити ефективність карбацетаму в корекції виявлених порушень.

Матеріали і методи. Експерименти виконано на 96 нелінійних щурах-самцях масою 160–180 г. Усіх тварин поділили на пʼять груп: контрольну та чотири дослідних (по 6 щурів у групі). До першої дослідної групи увійшли тварини, яким під тіопентал-натрієвим наркозом моделювали двогодинну ішемію кінцівки з наступною реперфузією. У другій дослідній групі в умовах знеболення тваринам моделювали гостру крововтрату в обсязі 20–22 % обʼєму циркулюючої крові шляхом пересікання стегнової вени. У третій дослідній групі дані ушкодження поєднували. У четвертій дослідній групі тваринам з гострою крововтратою, ускладненою ішемією-реперфузією кінцівки, з метою корекції внутрішньоочеревинно вводили карбацетам (Інститут фізико-органічної хімії та вуглехімії НАН України, Донецьк) в дозі 5 мг на кілограм маси тварини. В контрольній групі тваринам вводили в наркоз, застосовуючи еквівалентну дозу тіопенталу натрію, накладали джгут на 2 год без припинення кровотоку і в подальшому брали для досліджень через одну годину.

Через 1 і 2 год, а також через 1, 7 і 14 діб у піддослідних тварин визначали функціональний стан нирок методом водного навантаження. Сечу збирали протягом 2 год і визначали діурез. Після забору сечі під тіопентал-натрієвим знеболенням щурів виводили з експерименту методом тотального кровопускання із серця. У сечі і сироватці крові визначали концентрацію креатиніну. Швидкість клубочкової фільтрації (ШКФ) оцінювали за кліренсом ендогенного креатиніну.

Результати досліджень та їх обговорення. Встановлено, що реперфузія після двогодинної ішемії супроводжується істотним порушенням функціонального стану нирок, що виявляється зниженням діурезу та ШКФ, величина яких до першої доби досягає мінімального рівня, проте до 14 доби – нормалізується. На тлі гострої крововтрати досліджувані показники знижувалися ще більше. У всі терміни спостереження діурез і ШКФ були статистично вірогідно меншими, ніж у тварин з ішемією-реперфузією кінцівки. За умов моделювання гострої крововтрати та ішемії-реперфузії кінцівки у всі терміни реперфузійного періоду величина діурезу виявилася істотно меншою, ніж за умов самої крововтрати. У свою чергу, ШКФ за цих умов статистично вірогідно знижувалася через 4 год і 7 діб реперфузійного періоду. Дослідження впливу карбацетаму показало, що його застосування в реперфузійному періоді вже через 7 діб привело до статистично значущого зростання діурезу та ШКФ у тварин з гострою крововтратою, ускладненою ішемією-реперфузією кінцівки. Ефект ставав ще більшим через 14 діб. Отже, карбацетам нівелює патогенні прояви гострої крововтрати та ішемії-реперфузії кінцівки і знижує прояви ниркової дисфункції, що свідчить про його перспективність як засобу системної корекції.
Хірургічне лікування пацієнта з критичною ішемією нижніх кінцівок на фоні цукрового діабету: клінічний випадок
Authors: Bedenyuk A. D. , Bodnar P. Ya. , Bodnar T. V. , Futuima Yu. M. , Bodnar L. P.
Published: January 2020

У роботі наведено клінічний випадок хірургічного лікування пацієнта з критичною ішемією нижніх кінцівок на фоні цукрового діабету. Критична ішемія нижніх кінцівок залишається головним показанням до реконструкції артеріального русла, тому що відновлення магістрального кровотоку попередить ампутацію та покращить якість життя пацієнта.
A Risk Score Including Carotid Plaque Inflammation and Stenosis Severity Improves Identification of Recurrent Stroke
Authors: Kelly Peter J. , Camps-Renom Pol , Giannotti Nicola , Martí-Fàbregas Joan , McNulty Jonathan P. , Baron Jean-Claude , Barry Mary , Coutts Shelagh B. , Cronin Simon , Delgado-Mederos Raquel , Dolan Eamon , Fernández-León Alejandro , Foley Shane , Harbison Joseph , Horgan Gillian , Kavanagh Eoin , Marnane Michael , McCabe John , McDonnell Ciaran , Sharma Vijay K. , Williams David J. , O’Connell Martin , Murphy Sean
Published: January 2020

Background and Purpose—

In randomized trials of symptomatic carotid endarterectomy, only modest benefit occurred in patients with moderate stenosis and important subgroups experienced no benefit. Carotid plaque
18
F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake on positron emission tomography, reflecting inflammation, independently predicts recurrent stroke. We investigated if a risk score combining stenosis and plaque
18
F-fluorodeoxyglucose would improve the identification of early recurrent stroke.

Methods—

We derived the score in a prospective cohort study of recent (<30 days) non-severe (modified Rankin Scale score ≤3) stroke/transient ischemic attack. We derived the SCAIL (symptomatic carotid atheroma inflammation lumen-stenosis) score (range, 0–5) including
18
F-fluorodeoxyglucose standardized uptake values (SUV
max
<2 g/mL, 0 points; SUV
max
2–2.99 g/mL, 1 point; SUV
max
3–3.99 g/mL, 2 points; SUV
max
≥4 g/mL, 3 points) and stenosis (<50%, 0 points; 50%–69%, 1 point; ≥70%, 2 points). We validated the score in an independent pooled cohort of 2 studies. In the pooled cohorts, we investigated the SCAIL score to discriminate recurrent stroke after the index stroke/transient ischemic attack, after positron emission tomography-imaging, and in mild or moderate stenosis.

Results—

In the derivation cohort (109 patients), recurrent stroke risk increased with increasing SCAIL score (
P
=0.002, C statistic 0.71 [95% CI, 0.56–0.86]). The adjusted (age, sex, smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, antiplatelets, and statins) hazard ratio per 1-point SCAIL increase was 2.4 (95% CI, 1.2–4.5,
P
=0.01). Findings were confirmed in the validation cohort (87 patients, adjusted hazard ratio, 2.9 [95% CI, 1.9–5],
P
<0.001; C statistic 0.77 [95% CI, 0.67–0.87]). The SCAIL score independently predicted recurrent stroke after positron emission tomography-imaging (adjusted hazard ratio, 4.52 [95% CI, 1.58–12.93],
P
=0.005). Compared with stenosis severity (C statistic, 0.63 [95% CI, 0.46–0.80]), prediction of post-positron emission tomography stroke recurrence was improved with the SCAIL score (C statistic, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.66–0.97],
P
=0.04). Findings were confirmed in mild or moderate stenosis (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.74 [95% CI, 1.39–5.39],
P
=0.004).

Conclusions—

The SCAIL score improved the identification of early recurrent stroke. Randomized trials are needed to test if a combined stenosis-inflammation strategy improves selection for carotid revascularization where benefit is currently uncertain.
Modulation of Body Representation Impacts on Efferent Autonomic Activity
Authors: D'Alonzo Marco , Mioli Alessandro , Formica Domenico , Di Pino Giovanni
Published: January 2020

The afferent branch of the autonomic nervous system contributes with interoception to the multimodal sensory correlation continuously needed to update our representation of the body. To test whether the modulation of body representation would have an impact on the efferent branch of the autonomic nervous system, nonspecific skin conductance has been measured in three rubber hand illusion (RHI) experiments, controlled with asynchronous brush-stroking and incongruent fake hand position. Nonspecific skin conductance standard deviation (SCSD) computed along the whole 90 sec of stroking was found to be increased by the illusion and to correlate with all the typical measures of embodiment. Computing SCSD in shorter time windows strongly enhanced the difference between illusion and controls. The highest difference was found in the 10–55 sec window, being the 14–34 sec window as the most informative one. The higher correlations with the validated measures of embodiment (all but the proprioceptive drift) were found for time windows ranging between 35 and 65 sec. The SCSD was no longer significantly higher when the RHI was repeated twice (two trials each iteration), but it was still significantly higher in synchronous stroking even when considering only the second trial. However, after the first iteration of the RHI paradigm, the effect of the embodiment on nonspecific skin conductance response results to be attenuated, suggesting that novelty in presentation of the RHI can contribute to the effect on nonspecific skin conductance response. Results candidate SCSD as a noninvasive, cheap, easy, and objective measure of embodiment, especially sensible to onset and strength of the illusion. Alike the already known enhanced autonomic reaction to a threatening, SCSD does not interfere with the collection of other behavioral measures. Correlations and their dynamics, presence of the effect in the second presentation of the setup but relative low robustness against multiple repetition, suggest that the increased fluctuations of skin conductance caught by SCSD are not just the effect of different presented sensory stimuli but more likely a stronger arousal response to the novelty of the updated perceptual status.
Knowledge Missemination: L. Susan Stebbing, C.E.M. Joad, and Philipp Frank on the Philosophy of the Physicists
Authors: Tuboly Adam Tamas
Published: January 2020

Science popularization might take different forms. In the early twentieth century, Sir James Jeans and Sir Arthur Eddington presented the most successful endeavors. Philosophers were highly unimpressed and disturbed by these popular works and various authors declared their disagreement with the physicists’ philosophical books against their own philosophical background. I will discuss three different philosophers, L. Susan Stebbing, C. E. M. Joad, and Philipp Frank, whose three lines of criticism represent three different forms of philosophy, social engagement, and scientific outlook. What is interesting is that there was a point when the most diverse philosophers (of science) agreed in contrast of their common enemy, namely, those popularizing scientists that have their reputation and use it to propagate false, or at least misleading views about science, culture, and values. What we shall see is how far this agreement went among these figures and how the divergent strategies culminated in very similar results regarding knowledge dissemination.
Review of the genus Eurygaster (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Scutelleridae) of Russia
Authors: NEIMOROVETS VLADIMIR
Published: January 2020

Six species of the genus Eurygaster Laporte, 1833 are currently recorded from the territory of the Russian Federation including Eurygaster integriceps Puton, 1881, the most important pest of wheat in Russia. Determination of Eurygaster spp. to the species level remains challenging especially in the case of closely related E. integriceps, E. maura (Linnaeus, 1758), and E. testudinaria (Geoffroy, 1785). This often leads to errors in identification of these species and provides incorrect information for plant protection services. Additional features for more precise identification are discussed and a key to all species of the genus Eurygaster of Russia is provided. The key is backed up with short diagnoses of every species, original color photographs and summarized data on the distribution. Taxonomic status of E. testudinaria sinica Walker, 1867 is discussed and E. testudinaria sinica Walker, 1867 is synonymized with the nominative subspecies. Also, a key to all seven genera of Scutelleridae known from Russia is given.
Yellow Striped Giraffehopper Spartolus pugionatus Stål, 1877 comb. resurr. (Tetrigidae: Ophiotettegini) inhabits Mindanao Island of the Philippines’ archipelago
Authors: MOHAGAN ALMA B. , LEAŃO EMMANUEL P. , MELENCION MERCED G. , PATANO ROMEO R. Jr. , HONGCO ALDRIN L. , AMOROSO VICTOR B.
Published: January 2020

The genus Threciscus Bolívar, 1887 (Tetrigidae: Ophiotettigini) was a monotypic genus endemic for the Philippines and included only T. pugionatus (Stål, 1877). Here, after examination of series of specimens, we conclude that T. pugionatus is morphologically close to Spartolus tricostatus Bolívar, 1887 and we move the species back to the genus Spartolus Stål, 1877, giving it back combination Spartolus pugionatus comb. resurr. The species was originally described from a single female (holotype) from Semper’s collection, and, as most of specimens from that collection, lacked locality data. It is only known that Semper’s material originates from the Philippines. In this study, the very first annotated records of the species are presented. It inhabits central part of the island of Mindanao, mountainous tropical rainforests. We provide images of specimens under stereomicroscope and in natural habitat, brief morphological description, as well as updated distribution map. The species is easily recognizable by its coloration, lack of wings, prolonged head, foliaceous palpi and lateral spines. Furthermore, we report new localities for Arulenus miae Skejo et Caballero, 2016.
Regional to Global Evolution of Impacts of Parameterized Mountain-Wave Drag in the Lower Stratosphere
Authors: Kruse Christopher G.
Published: January 2020

Mountain ranges are regional features on Earth, as are the regions of mountain-wave drag (MWD) exerted by dissipating atmospheric gravity waves generated by flow over them. However, these regional drags have significant global- or zonal-mean impacts on Earth’s atmospheric general circulation (e.g., slowing of the polar night jet). The objective of this work is to understand the regional to global evolution of these impacts. The approach is to track the evolution of MWD-generated potential vorticity (PV) over the winter using the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (WACCM). Within an ensemble of winter-long runs with and without MWD, lower-stratospheric PV is generated over mountains and advected downstream, generating large-scale PV banners. These PV banners are diffused but survive this diffusion and are reinforced over downstream mountain ranges, accumulating into zonal-mean or global features within WACCM. A simple 2D model representing sources, advection, and diffusion of “passive PV” recreates the salient features in the WACCM results, suggesting the winter-long evolution of MWD-generated PV can be crudely understood in terms of horizontal advection and diffusion within a global vortex. In the Northern Hemisphere, cyclonic, equatorward PV banners accumulate zonally into a single zonally symmetric positive PV anomaly. The anticyclonic, poleward PV banners also accumulate into a zonally symmetric feature, but then diffuse over the North Pole into a negative PV polar cap. In the Southern Hemisphere, the same processes are at work, though the different geographic configuration of mountain ranges leads to different patterns of impacts.
Global and Regional Entropy Production by Radiation Estimated from Satellite Observations
Authors: Kato Seiji , Rose Fred G.
Published: January 2020

Vertical profiles of shortwave and longwave irradiances computed with satellite-derived cloud properties and temperature and humidity profiles from reanalysis are used to estimate entropy production. Entropy production by shortwave radiation is computed by the absorbed irradiance within layers in the atmosphere and by the surface divided by their temperatures. Similarly, entropy production by longwave radiation is computed by emitted irradiance to space from layers in the atmosphere and surface divided by their temperatures. Global annual mean entropy production by shortwave absorption and longwave emission to space are, respectively, 0.852 and 0.928 W m−2 K−1. With a steady-state assumption, entropy production by irreversible processes within the Earth system is estimated to be 0.076 W m−2 K−1 and by nonradiative irreversible processes to be 0.049 W m−2 K−1. Both global annual mean entropy productions by shortwave absorption and longwave emission to space increase with increasing shortwave absorption (i.e., with decreasing the planetary albedo). The increase of entropy production by shortwave absorption is, however, larger than the increase of entropy production by longwave emission to space. The result implies that global annual mean entropy production by irreversible processes decreases with increasing shortwave absorption. Input and output temperatures derived by dividing the absorbed shortwave irradiance and emitted longwave irradiance to space by respective entropy production are, respectively, 282 and 259 K, which give the Carnot efficiency of the Earth system of 8.5%.
Characteristics and outcomes of HIV-exposed infants in Homa Bay County, Kenya, 2015
Authors: Gitonga Lawrence K , Boru Waqo G , Muthoni Lilly , Odhiambo Jacob , Ransom James
Published: January 2020

Homa Bay County in south-western Kenya has a low uptake of antenatal care services and the highest prevalence of HIV in the country. We present the findings of a retrospective review of HIV-exposed infants (HEI) who sought early infant diagnosis services in the county throughout 2015. HEI who were breastfed >6 months, had replacement feeding and did not receive prophylaxis were 2–6 times more likely to be HIV-positive.
The Impact of Workplace Aggression on Employee Satisfaction With Job Stress, Meaningfulness of Work, and Turnover Intentions
Authors: Caillier James Gerard
Published: January 2020

Research concerning workplace aggression has become more prevalent over the past several decades. These studies have mainly focused on the antecedents and outcomes of workplace aggression in general or one specific type of workplace aggression. This article took a different approach. Specifically, it tests the impact of workplace aggression overall, as well as several types of workplace aggression, on the following work-related attitudes: satisfaction with job stress, turnover intentions, and meaningfulness of work. The moderating effect of satisfaction with job stress in the workplace aggression–turnover intention relationship and the workplace aggression–meaningfulness of work relationship were also investigated. Research findings demonstrated that workplace aggression decreased satisfaction with job stress and meaningfulness of work. Workplace aggression also increased turnover intentions. However, satisfaction with job stress did not interact with workplace aggression in either of the work-related attitudinal models (i.e., turnover intentions and meaningfulness of work). Furthermore, not all types of workplace aggression were found to affect work attitudes. These results are thoroughly discussed in the article.
Co-ethnic exploitation among Chinese within an ethnic economy
Authors: Liu Minhui , Olivos Francisco
Published: January 2020

Based on the situation of Chinese migrants in Santiago, Chile, this article shows that labor relationships between Chinese employers and Chinese workers could be exploitative. Thus, we aim to discuss the conditions under which co-ethnic exploitation among Chinese takes place in Chile. In addition, we ask why Chinese workers allow themselves to be exploited by their Chinese employers, and how employers explain the exploitation. We argue that such exploitation starts from the migration route, through which both parties mutually agree to skirt local regulations. Chinese employers hire co-ethnic workers through the use of guanxi (personal connections), which generates the conditions that keep workers under employers’ control and restrict possibilities for change.
Protocolized use of catheter-directed thrombolysis and echocardiography is highly effective in reversing acute right heart dysfunction in severe submassive pulmonary embolism patients
Authors: Guliani Sundeep , Das Gupta Jaideep , Osofsky Robin , Marek John , Rana Muhammad Ali , Marinaro Jon
Published: January 2020

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of protocolized use of catheter-directed thrombolysis and echocardiography in submassive pulmonary embolism patients.

Methods:

A retrospective study at a single institution of 28 patients that presented with submassive pulmonary embolism from July 2016 to September 2019 was performed. All patients were diagnosed using chest computed tomography demonstrating a pulmonary embolism and abnormal right ventricular to left ventricular ratio. Patients with severe right heart dysfunction (right ventricular to left ventricular ratio ⩾1.4) were protocolized to receive catheter-directed thrombolysis via EkoSonic catheters (EKOS Corporation, Bothell, WA, United States). Transthoracic echocardiogram was performed after 24 hours to assess right ventricular function and determine the need to continue thrombolysis. Patients after discharge then received follow-up echocardiograms at 6 weeks to determine new post-treatment baseline.

Results:

The mean patient age was 54.6 years, mean body mass index was 35.0, and mean right ventricular to left ventricular ratio on admission computed tomography imaging was 1.70. Interval mean right ventricular to left ventricular ratio on echocardiography during thrombolysis therapy was 1.01 (p < 0.00001). Patients were tachycardic on admission (mean heart rate 102.2 beats per minute) with improvement by completion of thrombolysis (mean heart rate 72.9 beats per minute) (p < 0.00001). There was a 0% incidence of periprocedural complications. Overall 30-day complication rate was 7.1% (n = 1 arrhythmia, n = 1 delayed intracranial hemorrhage). At 6-week follow-up, 91% of the patients who received echocardiography had normal right ventricular function.

Conclusion:

This retrospective study demonstrates the effectiveness of protocolized use of catheter-directed thrombolysis and echocardiography in reversing severe right heart dysfunction in submassive pulmonary embolism patients.
Single-sided deafness and unilateral auditory deprivation in children: current challenge of improving sound localization ability
Authors: Liu Jinfeng , Zhou Mo , He Xiaolin , Wang Ningyu
Published: January 2020

Interaural time difference and interaural level difference signals are insufficient in patients with single-sided deafness (SSD). This insufficiency leads to an absence of sound localization abilities and a decrease in speech intelligibility in noisy environments. SSD occurring in children further affects their language learning and cognitive abilities and their academic performance because they lack spatial abilities and binaural hearing. The early stages of central auditory system development are critical for auditory function development and morphological refinement. SSD occurring in the critical period can cause significant lateralization in the bilateral auditory pathway. This may increase the risk that affected individuals cannot re-establish binaural benefits after rehabilitation of hearing loss in the post-sensitive period. For otorhinolaryngologists, there is the concern that children with congenital SSD cannot benefit from cochlear implantation. Only a few studies have investigated auditory rehabilitation in children with congenital SSD with cochlear implantation and their results were inconsistent. The present review aims to clarify the main problems and challenges of clinical rehabilitation of congenital SSD, particularly focusing on the effect of CI on sound localization ability in children with congenital SSD.
Shorter training intervals increase high school students’ awareness of cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a questionnaire study
Authors: Tang Hong-mei , Wu Xiao , Jin Yin , Jin Yi-qing , Wang Zi-jun , Luo Jin-yan , Hu Yan-qi , Jin Ting , Shang Moses , Chang Qing , Wang Fei
Published: January 2020

Objective

To explore training-related independent factors affecting the awareness of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in senior high school students in Shanghai.

Methods

Questionnaires measuring CPR-related knowledge were distributed to 430 senior high school students in Shanghai.

Results

The overall CPR qualification rate was 7.7%. Qualification rate increased significantly with training frequency (5.5% vs. 9.3% vs. 20%), personal willingness to perform CPR (3.7% vs. 9.5%) and smaller training intervals (12.8% vs. 5.3% vs. 1.8%). After adjustment, training interval <6 months (odds ratio [OR] 6.078, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.367–27.014) remained an independent predictor of qualifying rate. In unqualified students, willingness to implement CPR (72.4% vs. 66.2% vs. 54.8%) and training interval <6 months (23.8% vs. 15.8% vs. 6.8%) decreased as school grade increased. Worries about CPR not meeting professional standards, especially in females (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.065–2.776), and legal responsibility for failed CPR were the main reasons for reduced willingness to implement CPR.

Conclusion

The CPR qualifying rate of senior high school students in Shanghai is low. It could be improved by reducing training intervals to consolidate learning. It may also be necessary to promote laws about first aid to senior high school students.
Assessment of the relationship between knee ultrasound and clinical symptoms in patients with thyroid dysfunction
Authors: Kim Bo Young , Kim Sung-Soo , Park Hyeong Kyu , Kim Hyun-Sook
Published: January 2020

Objective

To determine whether musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) abnormalities were associated with thyroid dysfunction.

Methods

This study included 109 patients with thyroid diseases, including thyroid dysfunction or autoimmune thyroid disease. Patients were categorized as euthyroid, hypothyroid, or hyperthyroid based on their recent thyroid function tests. To evaluate MSUS, an experienced rheumatologist examined the presence of synovial fluid, synovial hypertrophy, and grade of inflammation in both gray-scale and power Doppler scans of the knee joint. Associations between MSUS abnormalities, thyroid status, visual analog scale (VAS) score for knee pain, and presence of thyroid autoantibodies were investigated.

Results

MSUS abnormalities were more frequently associated with hyperthyroid or hypothyroid states than with a euthyroid state. High knee VAS score was significantly associated with overall MSUS severity score regardless of knee osteoarthritis. However, there was no difference in MSUS abnormalities based on the presence of thyroid autoantibodies.

Conclusions

Both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid states were associated with MSUS abnormalities and knee arthralgia. MSUS examination may be helpful in uncontrolled thyroid dysfunction and knee arthralgia.