bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dust grains fall from Saturn’s D-ring into its equatorial upper atmosphere
Authors: Mitchell D. G. , Perry M. E. , Hamilton D. C. , Westlake J. H. , Kollmann P. , Smith H. T. , Carbary J. F. , Waite J. H. , Perryman R. , Hsu H.-W. , Wahlund J.-E. , Morooka M. W. , Hadid L. Z. , Persoon A. M. , Kurth W. S.
Published: October 2018

Cassini's final phase of exploration

The Cassini spacecraft spent 13 years orbiting Saturn; as it ran low on fuel, the trajectory was changed to sample regions it had not yet visited. A series of orbits close to the rings was followed by a Grand Finale orbit, which took the spacecraft through the gap between Saturn and its rings before the spacecraft was destroyed when it entered the planet's upper atmosphere. Six papers in this issue report results from these final phases of the Cassini mission. Dougherty
et al.
measured the magnetic field close to Saturn, which implies a complex multilayer dynamo process inside the planet. Roussos
et al.
detected an additional radiation belt trapped within the rings, sustained by the radioactive decay of free neutrons. Lamy
et al.
present plasma measurements taken as Cassini flew through regions emitting kilometric radiation, connected to the planet's aurorae. Hsu
et al.
determined the composition of large, solid dust particles falling from the rings into the planet, whereas Mitchell
et al.
investigated the smaller dust nanograins and show how they interact with the planet's upper atmosphere. Finally, Waite
et al.
identified molecules in the infalling material and directly measured the composition of Saturn's atmosphere.

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Preserving microbial diversity
Authors: Bello Maria G. Dominguez , Knight Rob , Gilbert Jack A. , Blaser Martin J.
Published: October 2018

Microbiota from humans of all cultures are needed to ensure the health of future generations
The 11-Kilodalton Nonstructural Protein of Human Parvovirus B19 Facilitates Viral DNA Replication by Interacting with Grb2 through Its Proline-Rich Motifs
Authors: Xu Peng , Chen Aaron Yun , Ganaie Safder S. , Cheng Fang , Shen Weiran , Wang Xiaomei , Kleiboeker Steve , Li Yi , Qiu Jianming
Published: October 2018

Human parvovirus B19 (B19V) infection causes hematological disorders and is the leading cause of nonimmunological fetal hydrops during pregnancy. During infection, B19V expresses two structural proteins, VP1 and VP2, and three nonstructural proteins, NS1, 11-kDa, and 7.5-kDa. While NS1 is essential, 11-kDa plays an enhancing role in viral DNA replication. Here, we elucidated a mechanism underlying 11-kDa protein-regulated B19V DNA replication. 11-kDa is tightly associated with cellular growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (Grb2) during infection.
In vitro
, 11-kDa interacts with Grb2 with high affinity through three proline-rich motifs, of which at least one is indispensable for the regulation of viral DNA replication. 11-kDa and Grb2 interaction disrupts extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling, which mediates upregulation of B19V replication. Thus, our study reveals a novel mechanism of how a parvoviral small nonstructural protein regulates viral DNA replication by interacting with a host protein that is predominately expressed in the cytoplasm.
Enhancing Social Interaction in Depression (SIDE study): protocol of a randomised controlled trial on the effects of a Cognitively Based Compassion Training (CBCT) for couples
Authors: Aguilar-Raab Corina , Jarczok Marc N , Warth Marco , Stoffel Martin , Winter Friederike , Tieck Maria , Berg Judith , Negi Lobsang Tenzin , Harrison Tim , Pace Thaddeus W W , Ditzen Beate
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Positive social interactions (PSIs) and stable relationships can exert substantial benefits on health. However, patients suffering from depression benefit less from these health-promoting effects. Moreover, relationship quality and even partners’ health has been found to be negatively affected by depressive symptomatology, which may result in overall impairments in social functioning of a romantic couple. Psychobiological research indicates that these impairments may be accompanied by a maladaptive regulation of the patient’s neuroendocrine response to external stressors. Concerning the improvement of social functioning, first studies showed promising results of “Cognitively Based Compassion Training (CBCT®)”. However, randomised trials are still scarce. Previous programmes did not involve participation of the patient’s romantic partner. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate whether a CBCT® programme adapted for couples (CBCT®-fC) can improve depressive symptoms, distress, social interaction skills and the neurobiological regulation of stress.

Methods and analysis

Couples with the female partner suffering from depression will be invited to participate in a pre-to-post intervention assessment on two consecutive days, respectively, involving a standardised PSI task, eye-tracking, ECG recordings, saliva-sampling, blood-sampling and questionnaire data. After baseline assessment, participating couples will be randomised to either a 10 week CBCT®-fC or to a treatment as usual control condition. The primary endpoint is the reduction of depressive symptoms measured by the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Secondary outcomes encompass self-rated depression (Beck Depression Inventory), attention towards the partners face during PSI (eye tracking), stress-related biomarkers (cortisol, α-amylase, interleukin (IL)-1ß/IL-6, heart rate variability), methylation of oxytocin-receptor-genes and serotonin-transporter-genes and self-ratings of psychological constructs such as relationship quality and empathy.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained by the Ethics Committee of the Medical Faculty Heidelberg. Results will be presented in international, peer-reviewed journals and on conferences in the field of clinical psychology and psychiatry.

Trial registration number

NCT03080025.
Legacy effects of statins on cardiovascular and all-cause mortality: a meta-analysis
Authors: Nayak Agnish , Hayen Andrew , Zhu Lin , McGeechan Kevin , Glasziou Paul , Irwig Les , Doust Jenny , Gregory Gabriel , Bell Katy
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To assess evidence for ‘legacy’ (post-trial) effects on cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and all-cause mortality among adult participants of placebo-controlled randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of statins.

Design

Meta-analysis of aggregate data.

Setting/Participants

Placebo-controlled statin RCTS for primary and secondary CVD prevention.

Methods

Data sources: PubMed, Embase from inception and forward citations of Cholesterol Treatment Trialists’ Collaborators RCTs to 16 June 2016.

Study selection: Two independent reviewers identified all statin RCT follow-up reports including ≥1000 participants, and cardiovascular and all-cause mortality.

Data extraction and synthesis: Two independent reviewers extracted data in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Main outcomes: Post-trial CVD and all-cause mortality.

Results

We included eight trials, with mean post-trial follow-up ranging from 1.6 to 15.1 years, and including 13 781 post-trial deaths (6685 CVD). Direct effects of statins within trials were greater than legacy effects post-trials. The pooled data from all eight studies showed no evidence overall of legacy effects on CVD mortality, but some evidence of legacy effects on all-cause mortality (p=0.01). Exploratory subgroup analysis found possible differences in legacy effect for primary prevention trials compared with secondary prevention trials for both CVD mortality (p=0.15) and all-cause mortality (p=0.02). Pooled post-trial HR for the three primary prevention studies demonstrated possible post-trial legacy effects on CVD mortality (HR=0.87; 95% CI 0.79 to 0.95) and on all-cause mortality (HR=0.90; 95% CI 0.85 to 0.96).

Conclusions

Possible post-trial statin legacy effects on all-cause mortality appear to be driven by the primary prevention studies. Although these relative benefits were smaller than those observed within the trial, the absolute benefits may be similar for the two time periods. Analysis of individual patient data from follow-up studies after placebo-controlled statin RCTs in lower-risk populations may provide more definitive evidence on whether early treatment of subclinical atherosclerosis is likely to be beneficial.
Practice of informed consent in Guangdong, China: a qualitative study from the perspective of in-hospital patients
Authors: Gong Ni , Zhou Yinhua , Cheng Yu , Chen Xiaoqiong , Li Xuting , Wang Xia , Chen Guiting , Chen Jingyu , Meng Hongyan , Zhang Meifen
Published: October 2018

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the practice of informed consent in China from the perspective of patients.

Design

A qualitative study using in-depth interviews with in-hospital patients focusing on personal experience with informed consent.

Setting

Guangdong Province, China.

Participants

71 in-hospital patients in rehabilitation after surgical operations were included.

Results

Medical information is not actively conveyed by doctors nor effectively received by patients. Without complete and understandable information, patients are unable to make an autonomous clinical decision but must sign an informed consent form following the doctor’s medical arrangement. Three barriers to accessing medical information by patients were identified: (1) medical information received by patients was insufficient to support their decision-making, (2) patients lacked medical knowledge to understand the perceptions of doctors and (3) patient–doctor interactions were insufficient in clinical settings.

Conclusions

Informed consent is implemented as an administrative procedure at the hospital level in China. However, it has not been embedded in doctors’ clinical practices because, from the perspective of patients, doctors do not fulfil the obligation of medical information provision. As a result, the informed part of informed consent was neglected by individual doctors in China. Reforming medical education, monitoring the process of informed consent in clinical settings and redesigning medical institutional arrangements are pathways to restoring the practice of informed consent and patient-centred models in China.
Association of neighbourhood socioeconomic status and diabetes burden using electronic health records in Madrid (Spain): the HeartHealthyHoods study
Authors: Bilal Usama , Hill-Briggs Felicia , Sánchez-Perruca Luis , Del Cura-González Isabel , Franco Manuel
Published: October 2018

Objective

To study the association between neighbourhood socioeconomic status and diabetes prevalence, incidence, and control in the entire population of northeastern Madrid, Spain.

Setting

Electronic health records of the primary-care system in four districts of Madrid (Spain).

Participants

269 942 people aged 40 or older, followed from 2013 to 2014.

Exposure

Neighbourhoodsocioeconomic status (NSES), measured using a composite index of seven indicators from four domains of education, wealth, occupation and living conditions.

Primary outcome measures

Diagnosis of diabetes based on ICPC-2 codes and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c %).

Results

In regression analyses adjusted by age and sex and compared with individuals living in low NSES neighbourhoods, men living in medium and high NSES neighbourhoods had 10% (95% CI: 6% to 15%) and 29% (95% CI: 25% to 32%) lower prevalence of diabetes, while women had 27% (95% CI: 23% to 30%) and 50% (95% CI: 47% to 52%) lower prevalence of diabetes. Moreover, the hazard of diabetes in men living in medium and high NSES neighbourhoods was 13% (95% CI: 1% to 23%) and 20% (95% CI: 9% to 29%) lower, while the hazard of diabetes in women living in medium and high NSES neighbourhoods was 17% (95% CI: 3% to 29%) and 31% (95% CI: 20% to 41%) lower. Individuals living in medium and high SES neighbourhoods had 8% (95% CI: 2% to 15%) and 15% (95% CI: 9% to 21%) lower prevalence of lack of diabetes control, and a decrease in average HbA1c % of 0.05 (95% CI: 0.01 to 0.10) and 0.11 (95% CI: 0.06 to 0.15).

Conclusions

Diabetes prevalence, incidence and lack of control increased with decreasing NSES in a southern European city. Future studies should provide mechanistic insights and targets for intervention to address this health inequity.
Smoking as a risk factor for lung cancer in women and men: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: O’Keeffe Linda M , Taylor Gemma , Huxley Rachel R , Mitchell Paul , Woodward Mark , Peters Sanne A E
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To investigate the sex-specific association between smoking and lung cancer.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

We searched PubMed and EMBASE from 1 January 1999 to 15 April 2016 for cohort studies. Cohort studies before 1 January 1999 were retrieved from a previous meta-analysis. Individual participant data from three sources were also available to supplement analyses of published literature.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Cohort studies reporting the sex-specific relative risk (RR) of lung cancer associated with smoking.

Results

Data from 29 studies representing 99 cohort studies, 7 million individuals and >50 000 incident lung cancer cases were included. The sex-specific RRs and their ratio comparing women with men were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis with inverse-variance weighting. The pooled multiple-adjusted lung cancer RR was 6.99 (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 5.09 to 9.59) in women and 7.33 (95% CI 4.90 to 10.96) in men. The pooled ratio of the RRs was 0.92 (95% CI 0.72 to 1.16; I2=89%; p<0.001), with no evidence of publication bias or differences across major pre-defined participant and study subtypes. The women-to-men ratio of RRs was 0.99 (95% CI 0.65 to 1.52), 1.11 (95% CI 0.75 to 1.64) and 0.94 (95% CI 0.69 to 1.30), for light, moderate and heavy smoking, respectively.

Conclusions

Smoking yields similar risks of lung cancer in women compared with men. However, these data may underestimate the true risks of lung cancer among women, as the smoking epidemic has not yet reached full maturity in women. Continued efforts to measure the sex-specific association of smoking and lung cancer are required.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Muscle Disease (ACTMus): protocol for a two-arm randomised controlled trial of a brief guided self-help ACT programme for improving quality of life in people with muscle diseases
Authors: Rose Michael R , Norton Sam , Vari Chiara , Edwards Victoria , McCracken Lance , Graham Christopher D , Radunovic Aleksandar , Chalder Trudie
Published: October 2018

Introduction

In adults, muscle disease (MD) is often a chronic long-term condition with no definitive cure. It causes wasting and weakness of the muscles resulting in a progressive decline in mobility, alongside other symptoms, and is typically associated with reduced quality of life (QoL). Previous research suggests that a psychological intervention, and in particular Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), may help improve QoL in MD. ACT is a newer type of cognitive behavioural treatment that aims to improve QoL by virtue of improvement in a process called psychological flexibility. The primary aim of this randomised controlled trial (RCT) is to evaluate the efficacy of a guided self-help ACT programme for improving QoL in people with MD. Main secondary outcomes are mood, symptom impact, work and social adjustment and function at 9-week follow-up.

Methods and analysis

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Muscle Disease is an assessor-blind, multicentre, two-armed, parallel-group RCT to assess the efficacy of ACT plus standard medical care (SMC) compared with SMC alone. Individuals with a diagnosis of one of four specific MDs, with a duration of at least 6 months and with mild to moderate anxiety or depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale score ≥8) will be recruited from UK-based MD clinics and MD patient support organisations. Participants will be randomised to either ACT plus SMC or SMC alone by an independent randomisation service. Participants will be followed up at 3, 6 and 9 weeks. Analysis will be intention to treat, conducted by the trial statistician who will be blinded to treatment allocation.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has received full ethical approval. Study results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and journal articles. Data obtained from the trial will enable clinicians and health service providers to make informed decisions regarding the efficacy of ACT for improving QoL for patients with MD.

Trial registration number

NCT02810028.

Protocol version

V.11 (4 April 2017).
Work-related mobility and experiences of gender-based violence among female sex workers in Iringa, Tanzania: a cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from Project Shikamana
Authors: Hendrickson Zoé Mistrale , Leddy Anna M , Galai Noya , Mbwambo Jessie K , Likindikoki Samuel , Kerrigan Deanna L
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To examine how work-related mobility among female sex workers (FSWs) is associated with gender-based violence (GBV) in Iringa, Tanzania.

Design

Cross-sectional analyses were conducted on baseline data gathered between October 2015 and April 2016 from FSWs participating in Project Shikamana, a community empowerment-based combination HIV prevention intervention.

Setting

Participants were recruited for the baseline study using venue-based time-location sampling in two communities in Iringa, Tanzania.

Participants

FSWs were eligible for participation if they were 18 years or older and had exchanged sex for money within the past month. Four-hundred ninety-six FSWs participated in the baseline survey.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Any recent experience of GBV was examined by recent work-related mobility among FSWs. Any recent experience of GBV was also disaggregated by severity for analyses. All bivariate and multivariate binary and multinomial logistic regressions adjusted for intraclass correlations among women recruited from the same venues.

Results

Forty per cent of participants experienced recent physical or sexual violence, and 30% recently experienced severe physical or sexual violence. Thirty-three per cent of participants recently exchanged sex for money outside of their district or region, and 12% were both intraregionally and inter-regionally mobile for sex work. Intraregionally and inter-regionally mobile FSWs had 1.9 times greater odds of reporting recent GBV (adjusted OR: 1.89; 95% CI: 1.06 to 3.38; p=0.031) compared with non-mobile FSWs and a 2.5 times higher relative risk for recent experience of severe GBV relative to no recent GBV (relative risk ratio: 2.51; 95% CI: 1.33 to 4.74; p=0.005).

Conclusions

Mobility for sex work may increase FSWs’ exposure to GBV, particularly more severe GBV. The vulnerability of mobile FSWs to violence, particularly severe forms, demands inclusive services that are accessible to mobile FSWs.
Improving sensitivity to eye gaze cues in autism using serious game technology: study protocol for a phase I randomised controlled trial
Authors: Scherf K. Suzanne , Griffin Jason W , Judy Brian , Whyte Elisabeth M , Geier Charles F , Elbich Daniel , Smyth Joshua M
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterised by impairments in social communication. Core symptoms are deficits in social looking behaviours, including limitedvisual attention to facesandsensitivity to eye gaze cues.We designed an intervention game using serious game mechanics for adolescents with ASD. It is designed to train individuals with ASD to discover that the eyes, and shifts in gaze specifically, provide information about the external world. We predict that the game will increase understanding of gaze cues and attention to faces.

Methods and analysis

The Social Games for Adolescents with Autism (SAGA) trial is a preliminary, randomised controlled trial comparing the intervention game with a waitlist control condition. 34 adolescents (10–18 years) with ASD with a Full-Scale IQ between 70 and 130 and a minimum second grade reading level, and their parents, will be randomly assigned (equally to intervention or the control condition) following baseline assessments. Intervention participants will be instructed to play the computer game at home on a computer for ~30 min, three times a week. All families are tested in the lab at baseline and approximately 2 months following randomisation in all measures. Primary outcomes are assessed with eye tracking to measure sensitivity to eye gaze cues and social visual attention to faces; secondary outcomes are assessed with questionnaires to measure social skills and autism-like behaviours. The analyses will focus on evaluating the feasibility, safety and preliminary effectiveness of the intervention.

Ethics and dissemination

SAGA is approved by the Institutional Review Board at Pennsylvania State University (00005097). Findings will be disseminated via scientific conferences and peer-reviewed journals and to participants via newsletter. The intervention game will be available to families in the control condition after the full data are collected and if analyses indicate that it is effective.

Trial registration number

NCT02968225.
Chinese Herbal Medicine Glycyrrhiza inflata Reduces Aβ Aggregation and Exerts Neuroprotection through Anti-Oxidation and Anti-Inflammation
Authors: Chiu Ya-Jen , Lee Chi-Mei , Lin Te-Hsien , Lin Hsuan-Yuan , Lee Shin-Ying , Mesri Mina , Chang Kuo-Hsuan , Lin Jung-Yaw , Lee-Chen Guey-Jen , Chen Chiung-Mei
Published: October 2018

Amyloid [Formula: see text] (A[Formula: see text]) plays a major role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The accumulation of misfolded A[Formula: see text] causes oxidative and inflammatory damage leading to apoptotic cell death. Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) has been widely used in clinical practice to treat neurodegenerative diseases associated with oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. This study examined the neuroprotection effects of CHM extract Glycyrrhiza inflata (G. inflata) and its active constituents, licochalcone A and liquiritigenin in AD. We examined A[Formula: see text] aggregation inhibition, anti-oxidation and neuroprotection in Tet-On A[Formula: see text]-GFP 293/SH-SY5Y cells and anti-inflammatory potential in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 and LPS and interferon (IFN)-[Formula: see text] (LPS/IFN-[Formula: see text])-activated BV-2 cells. In addition, we applied conditioned media (CM) of BV-2 cells primed with LPS/IFN-[Formula: see text] to A[Formula: see text]-GFP SH-SY5Y cells to uncover the neuroprotective mechanisms. Our results showed that G. inflata extract and its two constituents displayed potentials of A[Formula: see text] aggregation inhibition and radical-scavenging in biochemical assays, A[Formula: see text] misfolding inhibition and reactive oxygen species (ROS) reduction in A[Formula: see text]-GFP 293 cells, as well as neurite outgrowth promotion, acetylcholinesterase inhibition and SOD2 up-regulation in A[Formula: see text]-GFP SH-SY5Y cells. Meanwhile, both G. inflata extract and its constituents suppressed NO, TNF-[Formula: see text], IL-1[Formula: see text], PGE2 and/or Iba1 productions in inflammation-stimulated RAW 264.7 or BV-2 cells. G. inflata extract and its constituents further protected A[Formula: see text]-GFP SH-SY5Y cells from BV-2 CM-induced cell death by ameliorating reduced BCL2 and attenuating increased IGFBP2, cleaved CASP3, BAD and BAX. Collectively, G. inflata extract, licochalcone A and liquiritigenin display neuroprotection through exerting anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities to suppress neuronal apoptosis.
Modified Ginseng Extract Induces Apoptosis in HepG2 Cancer Cells by Blocking the CXCL8-Mediated Akt/Nuclear Factor-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Cui Zhen Yang , Jo Eunbi , Jang Hyun Jin , Hwang In-Hu , Lee Kyung-Bok , Yoo Hwa-Seung , Park Soo Jung , Jung Mi-Kyung , Lee Yeon Wol , Jang Ik-Soon
Published: October 2018

The cytokine C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) is produced in the tumor microenvironment and has an important role in cancer pathogenesis. CXCL8 activates the nuclear factor (NF)-[Formula: see text]B signaling. However, the role of NF-[Formula: see text]B inactivation in apoptosis induced by negative regulation of CXCL8 remains unclear. Here, we assessed the effects of MRGX on the transcriptional activity of NF-[Formula: see text]B and the expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-[Formula: see text]-stimulated target genes in liver cancer cells. Furthermore, we found that modified regular ginseng extract (MRGX)-mediated inhibition of NF-[Formula: see text]B signaling induced apoptosis. Importantly, MRGX exerted strong activity, inhibiting TNF-[Formula: see text]-induced expression of Akt and NF-[Formula: see text]B in a concentration-dependent manner. Furthermore, MRGX inhibited the TNF-[Formula: see text]-induced expression of genes encoding CXCL8, CXCL1, inducible nitric oxide synthase and intercellular adhesion molecule 1. MRGX also dowregulated Akt activation, and there was a significant decrease in Akt activation in HepG2 cells treated with CXCL8 siRNA. Conversely, CXCL8 overexpression increased Akt activation in MRGX-treated HepG2 cells. When Akt was silenced, MRGX treatment of HepG2 cells overexpressing CXCL8 decreased nuclear translocation of NF-[Formula: see text]B, whereas Akt overexpression increased nuclear translocation of NF-[Formula: see text]B in MRGX-treated HepG2 cells. Moreover, MRGX negatively regulated the TNF-[Formula: see text]-mediated I[Formula: see text]B/NF-[Formula: see text]B pathway to promote Bax activation, resulting in caspase-3 activation and apoptosis. Taken together, these results indicated that MRGX inhibited CXCL8-mediated Akt/NF-[Formula: see text]B signaling, which upregulated Bax activation and consequently induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells.
On Lotka–Volterra algebras
Authors: Fernandez Juan C. Gutierrez , Garcia Claudia I.
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this paper is to study the structure of Lotka–Volterra algebras, the set of their idempotent elements and their group of automorphisms. These algebras are defined through antisymmetric matrices and they emerge in connection with biological problems and Lotka–Volterra systems for the interactions of neighboring individuals.
The set of singular elements of a ring with respect to a module
Authors: Farzi–Safarabadi A. , Beyranvand R.
Published: October 2018

Let [Formula: see text] be a ring and [Formula: see text] be a right [Formula: see text]-module. In this paper, we introduce the set [Formula: see text] for some essential submodule [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] of singular elements of[Formula: see text] with respect to[Formula: see text] , and we investigate the properties of it. For example, it is shown that [Formula: see text] is an ideal of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Also if [Formula: see text] is a semiprime right Goldie ring, then [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is the right singular ideal of [Formula: see text]. We prove that if [Formula: see text] is a semisimple module or a prime module, then [Formula: see text]. For any submodule [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text], we have [Formula: see text] and if [Formula: see text], then [Formula: see text]. We show that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In the end, the singular elements of some rings with respect to the formal triangular matrix ring are investigated.
Effects of the Elbow Flexion Angle on the Radial Nerve Location around the Humerus: A Cadaver Study for Safe Installation of a Hinged External Fixator
Authors: Sukegawa Koji , Kuniyoshi Kazuki , Suzuki Takane , Matsuura Yusuke , Onuma Kenji , Kenmoku Tomonori , Takaso Masashi
Published: October 2018

Background: This study aimed to investigate whether the distance between the radial nerve and rotational center of the elbow joint when observing from the lateral surface of the humerus changes according to passive elbow joint flexion for safe external fixation with a hinged fixator of the elbow joint.

Methods: Twenty fresh-frozen cadaveric arms were dissected. The points where the radial nerve crosses over the posterior aspect of the humerus, crosses through the lateral center, and crosses over the anterior aspect of the humerus were defined in the lateral view of the elbow joint, using fluoroscopy, as R1, R2, and R3, respectively. The distances between the rotational center and each point on the radial nerve were measured when the flexion angle of the elbow joint was 10°, 50°, 90°, and 130°.

Results: The distances between the rotational center and R1, R2, and R3 were 118 mm, 94 mm, and 65 mm, respectively, when the flexion angle was 10°; 112 mm, 93 mm, and 74 mm, respectively, for 50°; 108 mm, 93 mm, and 77 mm, respectively, for 90°; and 103 mm, 94 mm, and 83 mm, respectively, for 130°. The distance between the rotational center and R2 was constant regardless of the flexion angle. With elbow joint extension, the distances between R1 and R3 increased; the safe zone, a region where the radial nerve would not be located on the humerus, was the smallest in extension. When the elbow joint was flexed, the distances between R1 and R3 decreased; the safe zone was the largest in flexion.

Conclusions: This study showed that the radial nerve location on the humerus varied based on the flexion angle of the elbow joint; the safe zone may change. A half-pin can be likely inserted safely, avoiding the elbow joint extension position.
The Austrian Flag — Severe Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Mende Konrad , Tonkin Michael A.
Published: October 2018

In severe carpal tunnel syndrome a continuum of neural changes takes place depending on the degree and duration of the compression, beginning with breakdown of the blood-nerve barrier, followed by endoneurial oedema and, subsequently, perineurial thickening and ischemia. Persisting chronic compression will eventually result in axonal degeneration. We report a case of longstanding carpal tunnel syndrome with amyloid deposits and the unusual intraoperative ‘Austrian flag’ sign.
Knockout of ClC-2 reveals critical functions of adherens junctions in colonic homeostasis and tumorigenicity
Authors: Jin Younggeon , Ibrahim Dina , Magness Scott T. , Blikslager Anthony T.
Published: October 2018

Adherens junctions (AJs), together with tight junctions (TJs), form an apical junctional complex that regulates intestinal epithelial cell-to-cell adherence and barrier homeostasis. Within the AJ, membrane-bound E-cadherin binds β-catenin, which functions as an essential intracellular signaling molecule. We have previously identified a novel protein in the region of the apical junction complex, chloride channel protein-2 (ClC-2), that we have used to study TJ regulation. In this study, we investigated the possible effects of ClC-2 on the regulation of AJs in intestinal mucosal epithelial homeostasis and tumorigenicity. Mucosal homeostasis and junctional proteins were examined in wild-type (WT) and ClC-2 knockout (KO) mice as well as associated colonoids. Tumorigenicity and AJ-associated signaling were evaluated in a murine colitis-associated tumor model and in a colorectal cancer cell line (HT-29). Colonic tissues from ClC-2 KO mice had altered ultrastructural morphology of intercellular junctions with reduced colonocyte differentiation, whereas jejunal tissues had minimal changes. Colonic crypts from ClC-2 KO mice had significantly higher numbers of less-differentiated forms of colonoids compared with WT. Furthermore, the absence of ClC-2 resulted in redistribution of AJ proteins and increased β-catenin activity. Downregulation of ClC-2 in colorectal cells resulted in significant increases in proliferation associated with disruption of AJs. Colitis-associated tumors in ClC-2 KO mice were significantly increased, associated with β-catenin transcription factor activation. The absence of ClC-2 results in less differentiated colonic crypts and increased tumorigenicity associated with colitis via dysregulation of AJ proteins and activation of β-catenin-associated signaling.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Disruption of adherens junctions in the absence of chloride channel protein-2 revealed critical functions of these junctional structures, including maintenance of colonic homeostasis and differentiation as well as driving tumorigenicity by regulating β-catenin signaling.
TAILS proteomics reveals dynamic changes in airway proteolysis controlling protease activity and innate immunity during COPD exacerbations
Authors: Mallia-Milanes Brendan , Dufour Antoine , Philp Christopher , Solis Nestor , Klein Theo , Fischer Marlies , Bolton Charlotte E. , Shapiro Steven , Overall Christopher M. , Johnson Simon R.
Published: October 2018

Dysregulated protease activity is thought to cause parenchymal and airway damage in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Multiple proteases have been implicated in COPD, and identifying their substrates may reveal new disease mechanisms and treatments. However, as proteases interact with many substrates that may be protease inhibitors or proteases themselves, these webs of protease interactions make the wider consequences of therapeutically targeting proteases difficult to predict. We therefore used a systems approach to determine protease substrates and protease activity in COPD airways. Protease substrates were determined by proteomics using the terminal amine isotopic labeling of substrates (TAILS) methodology in paired sputum samples during stable COPD and exacerbations. Protease activity and specific protein degradation in airway samples were assessed using Western blotting, substrate assays, and ex vivo cleavage assays. Two hundred ninety-nine proteins were identified in human COPD sputum, 125 of which were proteolytically processed, including proteases, protease inhibitors, mucins, defensins, and complement and other innate immune proteins. During exacerbations, airway neutrophils and neutrophil proteases increased and more proteins were cleaved, particularly at multiple sites, consistent with degradation and inactivation. During exacerbations, different substrates were processed, including protease inhibitors, mucins, and complement proteins. Exacerbations were associated with increasing airway elastase activity and increased processing of specific elastase substrates, including secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor. Proteolysis regulates multiple processes including elastase activity and innate immune proteins in COPD airways and differs during stable disease and exacerbations. The complexity of protease, inhibitor, and substrate networks makes the effect of protease inhibitors hard to predict which should be used cautiously.
IL-10-producing B cells regulate Th1/Th17-cell immune responses inPneumocystispneumonia
Authors: Rong Heng-Mo , Li Ting , Zhang Chao , Wang Dong , Hu Yang , Zhai Kan , Shi Huan-Zhong , Tong Zhao-Hui
Published: October 2018

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a common opportunistic infectious disease that is prevalent in immunosuppressed hosts. Accumulating evidence shows that B cells play an important role in infectious diseases. In the present study, the immune regulatory role of mature B cells in host defense to Pneumocystis was evaluated. Pneumocystis infection resulted in a decrease in B cells in patients and mice, and the Pneumocystis burden in B cell-deficient mice also progressively increased from weeks 1 to 7 after infection. The clearance of Pneumocystis was delayed in B cell-activating factor receptor (BAFF-R)-deficient mice (BAFF-R−/−mice), which had few B cells and Pneumocystis-specific IgG and IgM antibodies, compared with clearance in wild-type (WT) mice. There were fewer effector CD4+T cells and higher percentages of T helper (Th)1/Th17 cells in BAFF-R−/−mice than in WT mice. Adoptive transfer of naive B cells, mRNA sequencing, and IL-1β neutralization experiments indicated that IL-1β is a likely determinant of the IL-10-producing B cell-mediated suppression of Th1/Th17-cell immune responses in BAFF-R−/−PCP mice. Our data indicated that B cells play a vital role in the regulation of Th cells in response to Pneumocystis infection.
Stroke Survivor and Caregiver Perspectives on Post-Stroke Visual Concerns and Long-Term Consequences
Authors: Smith Theresa M. , Pappadis Monique R. , Krishnan Shilpa , Reistetter Timothy A.
Published: October 2018

Approximately 800,000 people in the United States have a stroke annually. Up to two thirds of stroke survivors have some visual problems, which result in disability and can affect survivors’ overall rehabilitation outcomes. Although some post-stroke visual impairments can be corrected and respond well to intervention, ocular signs can be subtle and may not be recognized or reported by the stroke survivor but rather by a vigilant caregiver. The purpose of this study was to explore the post-stroke visual concerns and consequences expressed by stroke survivors and caregivers. This study employed a qualitative design using semistructured interviews conducted with a convenience sample of stroke survivors and caregivers recruited from either a community support group or skilled nursing and long-term care facilities. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Comparative content analysis was used to identify vision-related themes by two independent coders. All research team members completed quality checking of coding. Twenty participants (11 stroke survivors and 9 caregivers) expressed visual concerns or consequences following stroke: (1) eye movement problems, (2) perceptual issues, and (3) consequences of vision problems or issues, which affected their daily life/quality of life. Stroke survivors and caregivers reported receiving vision care from (1) eye doctors, (2) occupational therapists, and (3) other healthcare professionals. All vision care providers need to be observant of potential post-stroke visual concerns. Stroke survivors should have a thorough vision evaluation to optimize their independence in everyday activities and quality of life.
Cognitive-Enhancing Effect of a Hydroethanolic Extract of Crinum macowanii against Memory Impairment Induced by Aluminum Chloride in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Jilani Mohammed S. , Tagwireyi Dexter , Gadaga Louis L. , Maponga Charles C. , Mutsimhu Cosmas
Published: October 2018

Crinum macowanii is a bulbous plant indigenous to many parts of Southern Africa. Extracts of C. macowanii have gained interest since the discovery of various alkaloids, few of which possess acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity. The present study was performed to evaluate the effect of a crude hydroethanolic extract of C. macowanii against aluminum chloride-induced memory impairment in mice using the Morris water maze and the novel object recognition task. C. macowanii (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg p.o) was administered daily for five weeks, while donepezil (3 mg/kg p.o) was used as the positive control. C. macowanii at a dosage of 40 mg/kg showed a significantly lower escape latency than the negative control (P<0.0001) and was found to be comparable to donepezil 3 mg/kg in the Morris water maze test. C. macowanii at 40 mg/kg exhibited a significantly higher discrimination index than aluminum chloride-treated mice in the novel object recognition task. The results may support the usefulness of C. macowanii in the management of dementia and related illnesses.
Effect of Dual-Task Conditions on Gait Performance during Timed Up and Go Test in Children with Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Abdul Rahman Rabiatul Adawiah , Rafi Fazira , Hanapiah Fazah Akhtar , Nikmat Azlina Wati , Ismail Nor Azira , Manaf Haidzir
Published: October 2018

Background. Tasks requiring simultaneous mobility and cognition (dual tasks) have been associated with incidence of falls. Although these deficits have been documented in individuals with neurologic disorder, the effect of dual task in children with traumatic brain injury has not been fully explored. Objective. To investigate the effect of dual-task (dual-motor and dual-cognitive task) conditions on spatiotemporal gait parameters during timed up and go test in children with traumatic brain injury. Methods and Material. A total of 14 children with traumatic brain injury and 21 typically developing children participated in this case-control study. Functional balance was assessed before the actual testing to predict the risk of falls. Timed up and go test was performed under single-task and dual-task (dual-motor and dual-cognitive task) conditions. Spatiotemporal gait parameters were determined using the APDM Mobility Lab system. The descriptive statistics and t-test were used to analyze demographic characteristics and repeated measure ANOVA test was used to analyze the gait parameters. Results. Under dual-task (dual-motor and dual-cognitive task) conditions during the timed up and go test, gait performance significantly deteriorated. Furthermore, the total time to complete the timed up and go test, stride velocity, cadence, and step time during turning were significantly different between children with traumatic brain injury and typically developing children. Conclusions. These findings suggest that gait parameters were compromised under dual-task conditions in children with traumatic brain injury. Dual-task conditions may become a component of gait training to ensure a complete and comprehensive rehabilitation program.
Sound Source Omnidirectional Positioning Calibration Method Based on Microphone Observation Angle
Authors: Yang Xu , Xing Hongyan , Ji Xinyuan
Published: October 2018

To get source azimuth from microphone observation angle of view in a complex real environment, this article, on the basis of the analysis of geometric positioning method, established a seven‐element microphone array model and proposed a sound source omnidirectional positioning calibration method based on microphone observation angle. By using a seven‐element array to invert the position and angle of a sound source, the relative time delay value of a pair of microphones on the vertical axis of the coordinate system is used to determine the elevation angle polarity and realize the omnidirectional sound source positioning. The array parameters, sound velocity, array size, horizontal deflection angle, elevation angle, and sound source are analyzed, and the error method is proposed. The sound source data was measured using the microphone array perspective, and a new Cartesian coordinate system was established based on the observation angle of view for omnidirectional positioning calibration of the sound source. The simulation results show that the position error of the method is about 0.01% and the angle error is about 0.005%, with high calibration accuracy. The actual measurement results show that this method can effectively calibrate the sound source azimuth, the error rate of the source coordinates is around 10%, the horizontal declination angle error is less than 5%, and the elevation angle error is less than 8%. Appropriately increasing the spacing of the array will have a better calibration effect in an actual complex experimental environment.
Biocompatible Carbon-Based Coating as Potential Endovascular Material for Stent Surface
Authors: Wawrzyńska Magdalena , Bil-Lula Iwona , Krzywonos-Zawadzka Anna , Arkowski Jacek , Łukaszewicz Mikołaj , Hreniak Dariusz , Stręk Wiesław , Sawicki Grzegorz , Woźniak Mieczysław , Drab Marek , Frączkowska Kaja , Duda Maciej , Kopaczyńska Marta , Podbielska Halina , Biały Dariusz
Published: October 2018

Stainless steel 316L is a material commonly used in cardiovascular medicine. Despite the various methods applied in stent production, the rates of in-stent restenosis and thrombosis remain high. In this study graphene was used to coat the surface of 316L substrate for enhanced bio- and hemocompatibility of the substrate. The presence of graphene layers applied to the substrate was investigated using cutting-edge imaging technology: energy-filtered low-voltage FE-SEM approach, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The potential of G-316L surface to influence endothelial cells phenotype and endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) has been determined. Our results show that the bio- and hemocompatible properties of graphene coatings along with known radial force of 316L make G-316L a promising candidate for intracoronary implants.
Clinical Pharmacology of Hormonal Emergency Contraceptive Pills
Authors: Matyanga Celia M. J. , Dzingirai Blessing
Published: October 2018

Emergency contraceptives play a major role in preventing unwanted pregnancy. The use of emergency contraceptives is characterized by myths and lack of knowledge by both health professionals and users. The main objective of this paper is to summarize the clinical pharmacology of hormonal methods of emergency contraception. A literature review was done to describe in detail the mechanism of action, efficacy, pharmacokinetics, safety profile, and drug interactions of hormonal emergency contraceptive pills. This information is useful to healthcare professionals and users to fully understand how hormonal emergency contraceptive methods work.
Centrosymmetric Binuclear Boron Compounds Derived from Dithiooxamides: Synthesis, Characterization, and Their Photophysical Properties
Authors: Ibarra-Rodríguez Marisol , Muñoz-Flores Blanca M. , Cerón Jesús Lara , Santillán Rosa , Ochoa María E. , Waksman Noemí , Jiménez-Pérez Víctor M.
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we report the synthesis and characterization of new boron compounds derived from dithiooxamides. The compounds were characterized by NMR (1H and 13C), UV-vis, fluorescence spectroscopy, and high resolution mass spectrometry. The crystal structure of the mononuclear boron compound was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis. The photophysical properties of the boron compounds were investigated, and we found moderate fluorescence emission (compound 2 ΦF: 4.07% and compound 4 ΦF: 2.89%). We also observed that the mononuclear complex presented greater stability. Compound 4 showed interesting luminescent properties; in solid state, it exhibited an increase in fluorescence by mechanostimuli by changing to a bright red color, and also in solution, it showed a decrease in fluorescence intensity when oxygen and air were supplied to the solution.
Response of Two Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Varieties to Rates of Blended Fertilizer and Row Spacing at Tselemti District, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Mekuanint Tesfahun , Tsehaye Yemane , Egziabher Yemane G.
Published: October 2018

Effects of row spacing, blended fertilizer rates, and varieties on some agronomic traits of chickpea were evaluated with the objective of investigating response of Kabuli and Desi type chick pea varieties to blended fertilizers rates and interrow spacing. The study was done using split plot design interrow spacing as a main plot, and fertilizer and variety as a subplot, where three row spacings (20 cm, 30 cm, and 40 cm) were assigned to the main plot while the factorial combination of four blended (NPSB) fertilizer rates (0 kg/ha, 50 kg/ha, 100 kg/ha, and 150 kg/ha) and representative of Kabuli and Desi type chickpea varieties such as Arerti and Mariye, respectively, were assigned to the subplot. Main effect of interrow spacing did not show significant difference on many studied agronomic parameters. Similarly, main effect of blended fertilizer rates and varieties did not reveal a significant difference for the studied parameters. However, significant differences were obtained on phenology, yield components, and yield for the varieties. Blended fertilizer rates utilized in Tselemti District did not show differences in most of studied traits. Reasonable row spacing of 20 cm for both types of chickpea could be used for the studied area.