bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Real Patients and Patient-Simulation-Based Methodologies for Teaching Gastroenterology to Pre-Clinical Medical Students
Authors: DeSipio Joshua , Gaughan John , Perlis Susan , Phadtare Sangita
Published: June 2018

In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on the need to integrate formal knowledge with clinical experience in the pre-clinical years since the initial years of medical education play an important role in shaping the attitudes of medical students towards medicine and support the development of clinical reasoning. In this study, we describe approaches that involve real patients and patient-simulation-based methodologies to teach gastroenterology to second year medical students. Our goals were to (i) demonstrate bio-psychosocial aspects of clinical practice, (ii) demonstrate commonality of gastrointestinal ailments, and (iii) help understand complex gastroenterology concepts. We used two main approaches including brief, pre-prepared questions and answers discussing with the patients in various sessions throughout the course and a two-hour session that included patient participation, patient simulation modalities with high fidelity mannequins, a lightening round of interactive cases, and a Patient Oriented Problem Solving (POPS) session. The approaches improved the effectiveness of the delivery of the content-heavy, fast-paced GI course and provided opportunities for the students to think about gastroenterology from both basic and clinical points of view. The approaches involved peer teaching, which supports knowledge acquisition and comprehension. Very positive feedback and overall engagement of students suggested that these approaches were well-received.
Molecular Characterization and Antimicrobial Resistance Pattern of Escherichia coli Recovered from Wastewater Treatment Plants in Eastern Cape South Africa
Authors: Igwaran Aboi , Iweriebor Benson Chuks , Okoh Anthony Ifeanyi
Published: June 2018

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are designed to eliminate organic matter and pathogens but most WWTPs discharges antimicrobial resistance pathogens into aquatic milieu. The study aimed to examine the antibiotics resistant patterns and the presence of some resistance genes among E. coli isolates from WWTPs effluents. Water were collected from WWTPs final effluents, filtered through nitrocellulose membrane and the filter papers were placed on chromogenic agar plates, incubated for 24 h at 37 °C. Presumptive E. coli isolates (173) were obtained from the culture method. From the presumptive E. coli isolates screened by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), 111 isolates were positive and the positive isolates were further screened for six diarrheagenic E. coli pathotypes (EPEC, ETEC, EHEC, DAEC, EIEC, and EAEC) and from the pathotypes screened, nine isolates harboured daaE gene. The phenotypic susceptibility patterns of the 111 isolates to 12 antibiotics were determined by Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique. All the isolates were resistant to erythromycin and clindamycin. From the resistance genes screened, 31 isolates harboured mcr-1 gene and nine isolates harboured ermA gene. The study reveals that water samples recovered from the final effluents of WWTPs may likely be one of the major sources of antibiotic-resistant in Escherichia coli.
Implementation of Active Workstations in University Libraries—A Comparison of Portable Pedal Exercise Machines and Standing Desks
Authors: Bastien Tardif Camille , Cantin Maude , Sénécal Sylvain , Léger Pierre-Majorique , Labonté-Lemoyne Élise , Begon Mickael , Mathieu Marie-Eve
Published: June 2018

Sedentary behaviors are an important issue worldwide, as prolonged sitting time has been associated with health problems. Recently, active workstations have been developed as a strategy to counteract sedentary behaviors. The present study examined the rationale and perceptions of university students’ and staff following their first use of an active workstation in library settings. Ninety-nine volunteers completed a self-administered questionnaire after using a portable pedal exercise machine (PPEM) or a standing desk (SD). Computer tasks were performed on the SD (p = 0.001) and paperwork tasks on a PPEM (p = 0.037) to a larger extent. Men preferred the SD and women chose the PPEM (p = 0.037). The appreciation of the PPEM was revealed to be higher than for the SD, due to its higher scores for effective, useful, functional, convenient, and comfortable dimensions. Younger participants (<25 years of age) found the active workstation more pleasant to use than older participants, and participants who spent between 4 to 8 h per day in a seated position found active workstations were more effective and convenient than participants sitting fewer than 4 h per day. The results of this study are a preliminary step to better understanding the feasibility and acceptability of active workstations on university campuses.
Physical Activity-Related Injury and Its Associated Factors among Middle School Students in Southern China
Authors: Cai Weicong , Gao Yang , Yang Wenda , Cheng Fuyuan , Tang Dongchun , Li Liping
Published: June 2018

Physical activity (PA) promotion is beneficial to gain and maintain optimal health, but might increase risks for physical activity-related injury (PARI). This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the incidence rate and identify risk factors of PARI among Chinese middle school students. Selected via the method of cluster random sampling, students graded 7–8 (junior) and 10–11 (senior) from five middle schools (aged from 10 to 18 years old) in Shantou were invited to participate in the survey. Information on socio-demography, PA involvement, sleep duration, individual safety awareness and exercise behavior, and PARI experiences in the past 12 month was collected. Multivariate logistic regression model was performed to estimate the risk factors of PARI. A total of 3082 participants completed the valid questionnaires, with an overall incidence rate of 25.1%. Boys, junior school students, sports team members, and those with lower safety awareness, living with single parent, and without any chronic conditions were at higher risks for PARI. Moreover, exercising on wet floor or with illness frequently would also be more likely to experience injury, especially those with at least 120 min per day. In conclusion, PARI was prevalent among middle school students in southern China. The above data provide insights that were focused and effective actions should be taken to prevent school-aged adolescents from PARI and maximize the benefits of PA.
Vitamins A and E during Pregnancy and Allergy Symptoms in an Early Childhood—Lack of Association with Tobacco Smoke Exposure
Authors: Gromadzinska Jolanta , Polanska Kinga , Kozlowska Lucyna , Mikolajewska Karolina , Stelmach Iwona , Jerzynska Joanna , Stelmach Wlodzimierz , Grzesiak Mariusz , Hanke Wojciech , Wasowicz Wojciech
Published: June 2018

Epidemiological studies have suggested an association between maternal antioxidant levels during pregnancy and development of allergic diseases in their offspring. The aim of the study was to determine plasma vitamins A and E concentration in the 1st trimester of pregnancy, at delivery and in cord blood and to search for a relationship with allergy in up to 2-year-old children who were prenatally exposed or not exposed to tobacco smoke. The study participants included 252 mother-child pairs from Polish Mother and Child Cohort. Vitamin concentrations were measured using the HPLC-UV method, smoking status—as saliva cotinine level using the HPLC-MS/MS technique. Children’s health status was assessed using a questionnaire and pediatricians/allergists examination. Cord plasma vitamin concentrations were significantly lower than their levels in maternal plasma in the 1sttrimester and at delivery (p < 0.001). Significantly higher concentrations of vitamin E have been shown to occur during the 1st trimester of pregnancy in plasma of the women who have actively/passively smoked cigarettes compared to the non-smokers (p < 0.02). Multivariate analysis with inclusion of a variety of confounding factors have not indicated any statistically significant associations between β-carotene, vitamins A and E and the risk of food allergy, atopic dermatitis and wheezing in their children up to 2 years of age. The interaction between smoking during pregnancy and vitamins levels on the risk of allergy was not statistically significant (p < 0.4). The relationship between plasma concentration of vitamins A and E, and the risk of allergy in their young children has not been demonstrated.
Legal Immigration Status is Associated with Depressive Symptoms among Latina Transgender Women in Washington, DC
Authors: Yamanis Thespina , Malik Mannat , Del Río-González Ana , Wirtz Andrea , Cooney Erin , Lujan Maren , Corado Ruby , Poteat Tonia
Published: June 2018

Latina transgender women (LTW) are disproportionately vulnerable to depression, although the role of immigration/documentation status (legal authority to live/work in the U.S.) in depression has not been explored. LTW in Washington, DC were recruited into a cross-sectional study via convenience sampling. Most were Spanish-speaking Central American immigrants. Participants completed rapid HIV tests, and a Spanish-language survey assessing recent depressive symptoms (PHQ-2), sociodemographics, and factors from the minority stress framework: structural stressors (documentation status, stable housing), social stressors (discrimination, fear of deportation, violence) and coping resources (social support, resilience). Among immigrant LTW (n = 38), 24 were undocumented. Among the undocumented, the average PHQ-2 score was 2.7, and among the documented, the average PHQ-2 score was 1.4 (p < 0.05). Undocumented LTW were significantly more likely to experience employment discrimination, recent unstable housing, and fear of deportation. Bivariate and multiple linear regressions were performed to assess the relationship between documentation status and other correlates of past two week depressive symptoms. In multivariate analysis, PHQ-2 scores were inversely associated with being documented (p < 0.01), having an income above the federal poverty level, higher friends’ social support, and increased resiliency. Documentation status is an important correlate of depressive symptoms among LTW that should be considered within the context of health interventions.
Antibiotic Resistance Characterization of Environmental E. coli Isolated from River Mula-Mutha, Pune District, India
Authors: Dhawde Rutuja , Macaden Ragini , Saranath Dhananjaya , Nilgiriwala Kayzad , Ghadge Appasaheb , Birdi Tannaz
Published: June 2018

In the current study, ceftazidime- and ciprofloxacin-resistant—or dual drug-resistant (DDR)—E. coli were isolated from river Mula-Mutha, which flows through rural Pune district and Pune city. The DDR E. coli were further examined for antibiotic resistance to six additional antibiotics. The study also included detection of genes responsible for ceftazidime and ciprofloxacin resistance and vectors for horizontal gene transfer. Twenty-eight percent of the identified DDR E. coli were resistant to more than six antibiotics, with 12% being resistant to all eight antibiotics tested. Quinolone resistance was determined through the detection of qnrA, qnrB, qnrS and oqxA genes, whereas cephalosporin resistance was confirmed through detection of TEM, CTX-M-15, CTX-M-27 and SHV genes. Out of 219 DDR E. coli, 8.2% were qnrS positive and 0.4% were qnrB positive. Percentage of isolates positive for the TEM, CTX-M-15 and CTX-M-27 genes were 32%, 46% and 0.9%, respectively. None of the DDR E. coli tested carried the qnrA, SHV and oqxA genes. Percentage of DDR E. coli carrying Class 1 and 2 integrons (mobile genetic elements) were 47% and 8%, respectively. The results showed that antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and integrons were present in the E. coli isolated from the river at points adjoining and downstream of Pune city.
Functional Regulation of PPARs through Post-Translational Modifications
Authors: Brunmeir Reinhard , Xu Feng
Published: June 2018

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) belong to the nuclear receptor superfamily and they are essential regulators of cell differentiation, tissue development, and energy metabolism. Given their central roles in sensing the cellular metabolic state and controlling metabolic homeostasis, PPARs became important targets of drug development for the management of metabolic disorders. The function of PPARs is mainly regulated through ligand binding, which induces structural changes, further affecting the interactions with co-activators or co-repressors to stimulate or inhibit their functions. In addition, PPAR functions are also regulated by various Post-translational modifications (PTMs). These PTMs include phosphorylation, SUMOylation, ubiquitination, acetylation, and O-GlcNAcylation, which are found at numerous modification sites. The addition of these PTMs has a wide spectrum of consequences on protein stability, transactivation function, and co-factor interaction. Moreover, certain PTMs in PPAR proteins have been associated with the status of metabolic diseases. In this review, we summarize the PTMs found on the three PPAR isoforms PPARα, PPARβ/δ, and PPARγ, and their corresponding modifying enzymes. We also discuss the functional roles of these PTMs in regulating metabolic homeostasis and provide a perspective for future research in this intriguing field.
Characterization of the Complete Mitochondrial Genome Sequences of Three Croakers (Perciformes, Sciaenidae) and Novel Insights into the Phylogenetics
Authors: Yang Huirong , Xia Jun , Zhang Jia-en , Yang Jinzeng , Zhao Huihong , Wang Qing , Sun Jijia , Xue Huayi , Wu Yuanyuan , Chen Jiehu , Huang Jingchuan , Liu Li
Published: June 2018

The three croakers (Nibea coibor, Protonibea diacanthus and Argyrosomus amoyensis, Perciformes, Sciaenidae) are important commercial species inhabiting the Eastern Indian Ocean and Western Pacific. Molecular data employed in previous research on phylogenetic reconstruction have not been adequate and complete, and systematic and comprehensive phylogenetic relationships for these fish are unresolved. We sequenced the complete mitochondrial genomes of the three croakers using next-generation sequencing for the first time. We analyzed the composition and phylogenies between 19 species in the family Sciaenidae using the mitochondrial protein coding sequences of 204 species in the Series Eupercaria. We present the characterization of the complete mitochondrial genome sequences of the three croakers. Gene arrangement and distribution of the three croakers are canonically identical and consistent with other vertebrates. We found that the family Sciaenidae is an independent branch that is isolated from the order Perciformes and does not belong to any extant classification. Therefore, this family is expected to belong to a new classification at the order level and needs further analysis. The evolution of Sciaenidae has lagged far behind the Perciformes differentiation. This study presents a novel insight into the phylogenetics of the family Sciaenidae from the order Perciformes and facilitates additional studies on the evolution and phylogeny of Series Eupercaria.
Effects of Melatonin and Its Underlying Mechanism on Ethanol-Stimulated Senescence and Osteoclastic Differentiation in Human Periodontal Ligament Cells and Cementoblasts
Authors: Bae Won-Jung , Park Jae Suh , Kang Soo-Kyung , Kwon Il-Keun , Kim Eun-Cheol
Published: June 2018

The present study evaluated the protective effects of melatonin in ethanol (EtOH)-induced senescence and osteoclastic differentiation in human periodontal ligament cells (HPDLCs) and cementoblasts and the underlying mechanism. EtOH increased senescence activity, levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the expression of cell cycle regulators (p53, p21 and p16) and senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) genes (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and tumor necrosis factor-α) in HPDLCs and cementoblasts. Melatonin inhibited EtOH-induced senescence and the production of ROS as well as the increased expression of cell cycle regulators and SASP genes. However, it recovered EtOH-suppressed osteoblastic/cementoblastic differentiation, as evidenced by alkaline phosphatase activity, alizarin staining and mRNA expression levels of Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and osteoblastic and cementoblastic markers (glucose transporter 1 and cementum-derived protein-32) in HPDLCs and cementoblasts. Moreover, it inhibited EtOH-induced osteoclastic differentiation in mouse bone marrow–derived macrophages (BMMs). Inhibition of protein never in mitosis gene A interacting-1 (PIN1) by juglone or small interfering RNA reversed the effects of melatonin on EtOH-mediated senescence as well as osteoblastic and osteoclastic differentiation. Melatonin blocked EtOH-induced activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) c-1 pathways, which was reversed by inhibition of PIN1. This is the first study to show the protective effects of melatonin on senescence-like phenotypes and osteoclastic differentiation induced by oxidative stress in HPDLCs and cementoblasts through the PIN1 pathway.
The “Magnesium Sacrifice” Strategy Enables PMMA Bone Cement Partial Biodegradability and Osseointegration Potential
Authors: Zhai Qingpan , Han Fengxuan , He Zhiwei , Shi Chen , Zhou Pinghui , Zhu Caihong , Guo Qianping , Zhu Xuesong , Yang Huilin , Li Bin
Published: June 2018

Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)-based bone cements are the most commonly used injectable orthopedic materials due to their excellent injectability and mechanical properties. However, their poor biocompatibility and excessive stiffness may cause complications such as aseptic implant loosening and stress shielding. In this study, we aimed to develop a new type of partially biodegradable composite bone cement by incorporating magnesium (Mg) microspheres, known as “Mg sacrifices” (MgSs), in the PMMA matrix. Being sensitive to the physiological environment, the MgSs in PMMA could gradually degrade to produce bioactive Mg ions and, meanwhile, result in an interconnected macroporous structure within the cement matrix. The mechanical properties, solidification, and biocompatibility, both in vitro and in vivo, of PMMA–Mg bone cement were characterized. Interestingly, the incorporation of Mg microspheres did not markedly affect the mechanical strength of bone cement. However, the maximum temperature upon setting of bone cement decreased. This partially biodegradable composite bone cement showed good biocompatibility in vitro. In the in vivo study, considerable bony ingrowth occurred in the pores upon MgS degradation. Together, the findings from this study indicate that such partially biodegradable PMMA–Mg composite may be ideal bone cement for minimally invasive orthopedic surgeries such as vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty.
Methods for Controlling Gas Turbine Casing Flows During Engine Shutdown
Authors: Pilkington Andrew , Rosic Budimir , Horie Shigenari
Published: June 2018

During the shutdown of a gas turbine, natural convection flows occur inside of the engine casing. These natural convection flows cause the top of the engine casing to cool more slowly than the bottom of the casing. This non-uniform cooling can cause the casing to distort, known as “cat-back” distortion. This distortion leads to reduced tip and seal clearances, which can cause rubbing and binding. In this study, two different methods for reducing the non-uniform casing heat transfer in an industrial gas turbine during shutdown were investigated. A baseline case with no active method for reducing the casing heat transfer was compared with purge and flow extraction methods. It was found that the new proposed extraction method improved the uniformity of the casing heat transfer during the initial shutdown period.
Mononuclear Dysprosium(III) Complexes with Triphenylphosphine Oxide Ligands: Controlling the Coordination Environment and Magnetic Anisotropy
Authors: Langley Stuart , Vignesh Kuduva , Holton Kerey , Benjamin Sophie , Hix Gary , Phonsri Wasinee , Moubaraki Boujemaa , Murray Keith , Rajaraman Gopalan
Published: June 2018

We report the synthesis, structural and magnetic characterization of five mononuclear DyIII ion complexes using triphenylphosphine oxide as a monodentate ligand. They have formulae [DyIII(OPPh3)3(NO3)3] (1), [DyIII(OPPh3)4(NO3)2](NO3) (2), [DyIII(OPPh3)3Cl3] (3), [DyIII(OPPh3)4Cl2]Cl (4) and [DyIII(OPPh3)4Cl2](FeCl4) (5). These complexes are characterized using single crystal X-ray diffraction, which revealed that each complex has a unique coordination environment around the DyIII ion, which results in varying dynamic magnetic behavior. Ab initio calculations are performed to rationalize the observed magnetic behavior and to understand the effect that the ligand and coordination geometry around the DyIII ion has on the single-molecule magnet (SMM) behavior. In recent years, seven coordinate DyIII complexes possessing pseudo ~D5h symmetry are found to yield attractive blocking temperatures for the development of new SMM complexes. However, here we show that the strength of the donor ligand plays a critical role in determining the effective energy barrier and is not simply dependent on the geometry and the symmetry around the DyIII ion. Seven coordinate molecules possessing pseudo D5h symmetry with strong equatorial ligation and weak axial ligation are found to be inferior, exhibiting no SMM characteristics under zero-field conditions. Thus, this comprehensive study offers insight on improving the blocking temperature of mononuclear SMMs.
Complementary Medicine: Risks to Infants and Children
Authors: Polevoy Terry
Published: June 2018

Complementary Alternative Medicine (CAM) that targets infants and children can place them at grave risk. Our plan is to review some of the major cases of CAM used by parents, and by unlicensed and even licensed health professionals. Complications from CAM are rarely the focus of regulatory bodies, or even the courts. Even regulated health professionals, who have profited by misrepresenting science-based evidence for treatment or prevention of disease, have been rarely sanctioned by their respective Boards or Colleges. This must change. In addition, there is a dire need for regulators, including the governments, who allow quack products and devices to be marketed in their respective countries, to prosecute them. Existing regulations must be coupled with more effective enforcement. Some of these cases have had a direct connection to me personally, while others are examples of just plain dangerous quackery.
Development of a New Forced Cooling Technology Using a High-Pressure Coolant for Machining Difficult-To-Machine Materials
Authors: Tanabe Ikuo , Hoshino Hideo
Published: June 2018

In recent years, titanium and nickel alloys have become relevant in the production of aeronautic and astronautic parts. Since both nickel and titanium alloys have a very small thermal conductivity, the used tool will suffer huge damage from the heat generated during a grinding process. Therefore, there is a requirement for a durable tool with excellent cooling capacity. In this research, a new forced cooling technology that uses high-pressure coolant for machining difficult-to-machine materials was developed and evaluated. Here, a through hole on the rake face near the turning tool tip was machined by electrical discharge machining. Then, high-pressure coolant was supplied to the turning tool from the machined hole. Several values of pressure were experimentally performed. It is concluded from the results that the technology could effectively cool the area near the tip of a turning tool, and that the chip was also effectively removed by the high-pressure coolant.
Assessment of Land Cover Change in Peri-Urban High Andean Environments South of Bogotá, Colombia
Authors: Anselm Norbert , Brokamp Grischa , Schütt Brigitta
Published: June 2018

Bogotá, the rapidly growing center of an emerging economy in the northern part of South America, is located within a biodiversity hotspot in the tropical Andes. The surrounding mountains harbor the ecosystems Páramo and Bosque Altoandino whose high water retention capacity serves as a “natural water tower” for the city’s freshwater supply. Since Bogotá is steadily growing, the city spreads into its peri-urban area, thus threatening its proximal ecosystems. In this study, the land use and land cover change (LULCC) of Bogotá’s surrounding area is analyzed with random forest algorithms for the period 1989 to 2016. The basin of the Rio Tunjuelo, a subbasin of the Rio Bogotá, was selected for analysis, as it is typical for the entire area in terms of relief, land use and land cover. A multiple logistic regression analysis is applied to identify different determining factors of the changes. LULCC analysis of the Rio Tunjuelo basin shows an ongoing but abating southward spread of Bogotá’s outer rim, an increase of agricultural land, and decrease of natural vegetation. After an initial heavily spatial spread of urbanization in the early 1990s, the speed of urban spread declined in the past years. Statistical analysis implies that the defined natural vegetation classes must be considered as one spatial entity. The probability for their change increases with decreasing distance to established agricultural areas, which indicates human impact as a relevant factor for LULCC. Generally, the explained deviance (D2) is low and hence it is presumed that the LULCC determining factors are not predominantly found among environmental parameters.
Damping Analysis of Some Inorganic Particles on Poly(butyl-methacrylate)
Authors: Zhou Saisai , Yang Chunhua , Hu Jia , He Xianru , Zhang Rui
Published: June 2018

Viscoelastic polymers can be used as damping materials to control unexpected vibration and noise through energy dissipation. To investigate the effect of an inorganic filler on damping property, a series of inorganic particles, Ferriferous oxide(Fe3O4), Graphene/Fe3O4(GF), and Fe3O4 of demagnetization(α-Fe2O3) were incorporated into poly(butyl-methacrylate) (PBMA). The effects of the dispersion of particles, as well as the interaction between particles and the PBMA matrix on the damping property of composites, were systematically studied. Results revealed that the addition of three types of particles can effectively improve the damping properties and broaden the effective damping temperature range. Dispersion of α-Fe2O3 in the PBMA matrix is better than that of Fe3O4. As a result, the damping peak can be increased more. The interaction between GF and the PBMA matrix is stronger than that between Fe3O4 and the PBMA. The damping peak of the composites can be suppressed by GF, which is opposite to Fe3O4 and α-Fe2O3. In addition, glass transition temperature (Tg) of all composites in the study shifted to low temperatures.
Synthesis of Various TiO2 Micro-/Nano-Structures and Their Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Deng Anquan , Zhu Yufu , Guo Xin , Zhou Lei , Jiang Qingsong
Published: June 2018

TiO2 micro-/nano-structures with different morphologies have been successfully synthesized via a hydrothermal method. The effects of the solvents on the morphology and structure of the obtained products have been studied. The objective of the present paper is to compare the photocatalytic properties of the obtained TiO2 products. During the synthesis process, the tetrabutyl titanate and titanium (IV) fluoride were used as the titanium source. The obtained micro-/nano-structures were characterized by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms. The photocatalytic activity of the samples was evaluated by the degradation of Rhodamine B solution under simulated solar irradiation. It is found that the morphologies and structures of TiO2 have a great influence on its photocatalytic activity. Compared with other samples, TiO2 flower clusters assembled with nanorods exhibited a superior photocatalytic activity in the degradation of Rhodamine B.
Versatile Poly(Diallyl Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride)-Layered Nanocomposites for Removal of Cesium in Water Purification
Authors: Jang Sung-Chan , Kang Sung-Min , Kim Gi Yong , Rethinasabapathy Muruganantham , Haldorai Yuvaraj , Lee Ilsong , Han Young-Kyu , Renshaw Joanna C. , Roh Changhyun , Huh Yun Suk
Published: June 2018

In this work, we elucidate polymer-layered hollow Prussian blue-coated magnetic nanocomposites as an adsorbent to remove radioactive cesium from environmentally contaminated water. To do this, Fe3O4 nanoparticles prepared using a coprecipitation method were thickly covered with a layer of cationic polymer to attach hollow Prussian blue through a self-assembly process. The as-synthesized adsorbent was confirmed through various analytical techniques. The adsorbent showed a high surface area (166.16 m2/g) with an excellent cesium adsorbent capacity and removal efficiency of 32.8 mg/g and 99.69%, respectively. Moreover, the superparamagnetism allows effective recovery of the adsorbent using an external magnetic field after the adsorption process. Therefore, the magnetic adsorbent with a high adsorption efficiency and convenient recovery is expected to be effectively used for rapid remediation of radioactive contamination.
Theory of Electron Spin Resonance in Ferromagnetically Correlated Heavy Fermion Compounds
Authors: Schlottmann Pedro
Published: June 2018

We studied the electron spin resonance (ESR) line width for localized moments within the framework of the Kondo lattice model. Only for a sufficiently small Kondo temperature can an ESR signal be observed for a Kondo impurity. On the other hand, for a Kondo lattice representing a heavy fermion compound, short-range ferromagnetic correlations (FM) between the localized moments are crucial to observe a signal. The spin relaxation rate (line width) and the static magnetic susceptibility are inversely proportional to each other. The FM enhance the susceptibility and hence reduce the line width. For most of the heavy fermion systems displaying an ESR signal, the FM order arises in the ab-plane from the strong lattice anisotropy. CeB6 is a heavy fermion compound with cubic symmetry having a Γ8 ground-quartet. Four transitions are expected for individual Ce ions with a Γ8 ground-multiplet, but only one has been observed. Antiferro-quadrupolar order (AFQ) arises below 4 K due to the orbital content of the Γ8-quartet. We addressed the effects of the interplay of AFQ and FM on the ESR line width and the phase diagram. It is usually difficult to distinguish among ESR resonances due to localized moments and conducting heavy electron spins, especially for anisotropic Ce and Yb compounds. However, for CeB6, an itinerant picture within the AFQ phase is necessary to explain the electron spin resonances. The longitudinal magnetic susceptibility has a quasi-elastic central peak of line width 1/T1 and inelastic peaks for the absorption/emission of excitations. The latter are measured via inelastic neutron scattering (INS) and provide insights into the magnetic order. We briefly summarize some of the INS results for CeB6 in the context of the picture that emerged from the ESR experiments.
Delusions of persecution and poisoning in patients with schizophrenia: sociocultural and religious background
Authors: Rudalevičienė Palmira , Adomaitienė Virginija , Stompe Thomas , Narbekovas Andrius , Meilius Kazimieras , Raškauskienė Nijolė , Rudalevičius Jurgis , Bunevičius Robertas
Published: June 2018

This article presents data on the phenomenology of delusions of persecution and poisoning in patients with schizophrenia and determines parallels between sociodemographic status and personal religiosity and this type of delusions. We have studied the content of delusions in patients with schizophrenia looking for persecution and poisoning themes using Fragebogen fuer psychotische Symptome (FPS). A total of 295 patients suffering from schizophrenia participated in this study; 74.7% reported delusions of persecution. The proportion of female patients (81.9%) who felt persecuted was almost one-third higher than the proportion of male patients (66.9%). The prevalence of delusions of persecution was lower in the group of persons for whom their faith was personally important (73.4%) than in the atheistic group (86.7%). Delusions of persecution and poisoning were strongly intercorrelated. Delusions of poisoning were reported by 57.8% of respondents: 54.8% by male and 60.6% by female patients. In multivariate analysis, delusions of persecution were more prevalent in women compared to men; in those with a chronic course of illness compared to those with periodic course; in those with small size of family compared to those with large family. The presence of delusions of being poisoned was related to older age of the patient, higher than secondary education, chronic course of schizophrenia, and younger parental age. Personal importance of the faith was not associated with prevalence of delusions of persecution and poisoning in patients with schizophrenia.
Leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava
Authors: Bieliūnienė Edita , Kavaliauskienė Giedrė , Mitraitė Dalia , Jonaitienė Eglė , Basevičius Algidas , Lukoševičius Saulius , Pranys Darius , Krasauskas Virgilijus , Juodžbalienė Edita
Published: June 2018

Leiomyosarcoma is a rare tumor of mesenchymal origin usually affecting the inferior vena cava. Early diagnosis is essential before surgical resection, which is the only therapeutic modality that prolongs patients’ survival. Ultrasonography, computer tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging are the main imaging modalities in this case. Combined with guided biopsies, they form the mainstay of reliable diagnosis. We report a case with retroperitoneal tumor arising from the middle segment of the inferior vena cava. Radiological examination revealed retroperitoneal tumor and helped to choose surgical treatment. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava.
Cell proliferation and apoptosis in Wistar rat kidney after renal mass ablation and low-dose irradiation
Authors: Aunapuu Marina , Arend Andres , Ots Mai , Pilmane Mara
Published: June 2018

Cell proliferation and apoptosis in the remnant rat kidney after treatment with lowdose irradiation was investigated. Material and methods. In the first group (n=9), adult male Wistar rats underwent 5/6 nephrectomy (NPX); in the second group (n=9), NPX was combined with low-dose irradiation. Rats without surgery and irradiation formed the control group (n=9). Results. Hypertension and proteinuria induced by NPX were decreased by 3-Gy irradiation. The 5/6 NPX rats showed a dramatic increase in proliferating and apoptotic cells in the glomeruli and in the distal tubules at week 2, which was significantly decreased by low-dose irradiation. Conclusion. The data demonstrate that low-dose irradiation is a factor slowing the process of chronic renal injury.
Importance of pain evaluation for more accurate diagnosis of painful diabetic polyneuropathy
Authors: Petrikonis Kęstutis , Ščiupokas Arūnas , Samušytė Gintautė , Janušauskaitė Jolita , Šulcaitė Rita , Vaitkus Antanas
Published: June 2018

Pain is a common problem in diabetic neuropathy, but relatively little has been published regarding the extent to which it needs to be addressed in clinical practice. Objective. To assess neuropathic pain profile and its association with quantitative sensory testing in painful diabetic polyneuropathy. Material and methods. Altogether, 61 consecutive diabetic inpatients with symmetric neuropathic complaints were enrolled. Clinical neurological examination and quantitative sensory testing (QST) were performed. Patients were interviewed using the Neuropathic Pain Scale (NPS) and filled in the McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ). Results. Of all patients, 49 (80.3%) had clinical diabetic polyneuropathy. Only 17 of these patients complained of lower extremity pain on an initial interview, while 27 marked it in the MPQ. The intensity of deep and superficial pain did not differ, but patients rated deep pain as more unpleasant than superficial (6.27±2.37 vs. 4.30±1.42 on the NPS, P=0.034). Superficial pain NPS items tended to correlate with QST results, while deep pain items did not. Only female gender (OR=7.87) and lower glycosylated hemoglobin level (OR=0.65) were predictive of pain in case of diabetic neuropathy. Conclusions. Standard pain questionnaires were useful in identifying pain sufferers. At the same intensity, deep neuropathic pain was more unpleasant than superficial. Pain manifestation was associated with female gender and lower level of glycosylated hemoglobin.
Antibiotic prescription for the treatment of endodontic pathology: a survey among Lithuanian dentists
Authors: Skučaitė Neringa , Pečiulienė Vytautė , Manelienė Rasmutė , Mačiulskienė Vita
Published: June 2018

Objective. To describe a pattern of antibiotic prescription during root canal treatment procedures based on the reports of Lithuanian general dental practitioners. Materials and methods. Questionnaires concerning endodontic treatment were sent to all 2850 Lithuanian dental practitioners registered on the database of the Lithuanian Dental Chamber. Only the questions containing general information and individual decisions about antibiotic prescription for endodontic treatment were selected for the analysis. Results. The response rate was 53.8%. Of the 1532 responses, 1431 questionnaires received from licensed general dental practitioners were analyzed. More than 60% of the respondents reported prescribing antibiotics in cases of symptomatic apical periodontitis. Majority of the respondents (83.9%) reported symptomatic apical periodontitis with periostitis being a clear indication for the prescription of antibiotics. Nearly 2% of the respondents reported prescribing antibiotics in cases of symptomatic pulpitis. With an increasing duration of professional activity, an increase in the proportion of the respondents reporting prescription of antibiotics was observed. Amoxicillin was the most preferable antibiotic during endodontic treatment, followed by amoxicillin with clavulanic acid. An increase in reporting penicillin prescription and decline in prescribing amoxicillin and amoxicillin with clavulanic acid with regard to the increasing age of respondents was observed. Conclusions. Lithuanian dentists, particularly those with longer duration of professional activity, tended to exceed general recommendations for the antibiotics prescription in cases of endodontic infections. However, a trend toward prescription of broader spectrum antibiotics by younger dentists, compared with those with longer professional activity, was observed.
HER2 receptorių ir p53 baltymo padidėjusios raiškos įtaka II stadijos krūties vėžiu sergančių moterų gyvenimo trukmei
Authors: Liutkauskienė Sigita , Juozaitytė Elona , Poškienė Lina , Pranys Darius , Jurėnienė Kristina
Published: June 2018

Tyrimo tikslas. Ištirti p53 baltymo ir HER2 (c-erbB-2) receptorių padidėjusios raiškos įtaką II stadijos krūties vėžiu sirgusių jaunų moterų penkerių metų išgyvenamumui, atsižvelgiant į hormonų receptorių bei gydymo savitumų reikšmę. Tyrimo medžiaga ir metodai. Retrospektyviai analizuojama 34 Kauno apskrities moterų, gydytų 2001–2003 m. Kauno onkologijos ligoninėje, medicininė dokumentacija ir archyvinė histologinė medžiaga. Tiriamųjų kontingentas – jaunos, iki 50 metų moterys, kurioms diagnozuotas ir morfologiškai patvirtintas II stadijos krūties vėžys. 22 moterys išgyveno penkerius metus, 12 mirė penkerių metų laikotarpiu. Panaudojant archyvinę histologinę medžiagą de novo, tuometinėje KMUK Patologinės anatomijos klinikoje buvo atliktas p53 baltymo ir HER2 receptorių raiškos tyrimas imunohistocheminiu metodu. Panaudojant medicininę dokumentaciją, analizuota pacientėms skirta adjuvantinė chemoterapija, antraciklinų suminė dozė ir hormoninis gydymas. Rezultatai. Tarp visų 34 tiriamųjų 20,6 proc. atvejų rasta padidėjusi p53 baltymo raiška, 26,4 proc. atvejų – HER2 baltymo raiška. Analizuojant išgyvenamumą Kaplan-Meier metodu, nustatyta, kad mirties tikimybė penkerių metų laikotarpiu didesnė, kai naviko histologinėje medžiagoje rastas padidėjęs p53 baltymo kaupimasis, neigiami estrogenų receptoriai ir kai pacientės gydytos nepakankama antraciklino doze (log rank p=0,013, log rank p=0,02, log rank p=0,027, atitinkamai). Nerasta sąsajų tarp padidėjusios HER2 baltymo raiškos ir pacienčių penkerių metų išgyvenimo (log rank p=0,51). Daugiamatės analizės metodu nustatyta, kad vienintelis nepriklausomas veiksnys yra nepakankama antraciklinų dozė (p=0,028). Išvada. Jaunų moterų, susirgusių II stadijos krūties vėžiu, trumpesnei gyvenimo trukmei įtakos turi padidėjusi p53 baltymo raiška, sumažinta antraciklinų dozė ir neigiami estrogenų receptoriai, o HER2 baltymo padidėjusios raiškos įtakos penkerių metų gyvenimo trukmei nepavyko įrodyti. Nepriklausomas prognozinis veiksnys yra nepakankamas adjuvantinis gydymas antraciklinais.
Micro-Fabricated Resonator Based on Inscribing a Meandered-Line Coupling Capacitor in an Air-Bridged Circular Spiral Inductor
Authors: Kim Eun Seong , Kim Nam Young
Published: June 2018

This letter presents a high-performance micro-fabricated resonator based on inscribing a meandered-line square coupling capacitor in an air-bridged circular spiral inductor on the GaAs-integrated passive device (IPD) technology. The main advantages of the proposed method, which inserts a highly effective coupling capacitor between the two halves of a circular spiral inductor, are the miniaturized size, enhanced coupling coefficient, and improved selectivity. Moreover, using an air-bridge structure utilizes the enhanced mutual inductance in which it maximizes the self-inductance by a stacking inductor layout to obtain a high coupling effect. The simulated and measured S-parameters of a prototype resonator with an effective overall circuit size of 1000 µm × 800 µm are in good agreement. The measured insertion and return losses of 0.41 and 24.21 dB, respectively, at a measured central frequency of 1.627 GHz, as well as an upper band transmission zero with a suppression level of 38.7 dB, indicate the excellent selectivity of the developed resonator.
Mineralogy of Platinum-Group Elements and Gold in the Ophiolite-Related Placer of the River Bolshoy Khailyk, Western Sayans, Russia
Authors: Barkov Andrei Y. , Shvedov Gennadiy I. , Silyanov Sergey A. , Martin Robert F.
Published: June 2018

We describe assemblages of platinum-group minerals (PGM) and associated PGE–Au phases found in alluvium along the River Bolshoy Khailyk, in the western Sayans, Russia. The river drains the Aktovrakskiy ophiolitic complex, part of the Kurtushibinskiy belt, as does the Zolotaya River ~15 km away, the site of other placer deposits. Three groups of alloy minerals are described: (1) Os–Ir–Ru compositions, which predominate, (2) Pt–Fe compositions of a Pt3Fe stoichiometry, and (3) Pt–Au–Cu alloys, which likely crystallized in the sequence from Au–(Cu)-bearing platinum, Pt(Au,Cu), Pt(Cu,Au), and PtAuCu2, to PtAu4Cu5. The general trends of crystallization of PGM appear to be: [Os–Ir–Ru alloys] → Pt3Fe-type alloy (with inclusions of Ru-dominant alloy formed by exsolution or via replacement of the host Pt–Fe phase) → Pt–Au–Cu alloys. We infer that Rh and Co mutually substitute for Fe, not Ni, and are incorporated into the pentlandite structure via a coupled mechanism of substitution: [Rh3+ + Co3+ + □ → 3Fe2+]. Many of the Os–Ir–Ru and Pt–Fe grains have porous, fractured or altered rims that contain secondary PGE sulfide, arsenide, sulfarsenide, sulfoantimonide, gold, Pt–Ir–Ni-rich alloys, and rarer phases like Cu-rich bowieite and a Se-rich sulfarsenide of Pt. The accompanying pyroxene, chromian spinel and serpentine are highly magnesian, consistent with a primitive ultramafic source-rock. Whereas the alloy phases indicate a highly reducing environment, late assemblages indicate an oxygenated local environment leading to Fe-bearing Ru–Os oxide (zoned) and seleniferous accessory phases.
Fiemmeite Cu2(C2O4)(OH)2∙2H2O, a New Mineral from Val di Fiemme, Trentino, Italy
Authors: Demartin Francesco , Campostrini Italo , Ferretti Paolo , Rocchetti Ivano
Published: June 2018

The new mineral species fiemmeite, Cu2(C2O4)(OH)2∙2H2O, was found NE of the Passo di San Lugano, Val di Fiemme, Carano, Trento, Italy (latitude 46.312° N, longitude 11.406° E). It occurs in coalified woods at the base of the Val Gardena Sandstone (upper Permian) which were permeated by mineralizing solutions containing Cu, U, As, Pb and Zn. The oxalate anions have originated from diagenesis of the plant remains included in sandstones. The mineral forms aggregate up to 1 mm across of sky blue platelets with single crystals reaching maximum dimensions of about 50 μm. Associated minerals are: baryte, olivenite, middlebackite, moolooite, brochantite, cuprite, devilline, malachite, azurite, zeunerite/metazeunerite, tennantite, chalcocite, galena. Fiemmeite is monoclinic, space group: P21/c with a = 3.4245(6), b = 10.141(2), c = 19.397(3) Å, β = 90.71(1)°, V = 673.6(2) Å3, Z = 4. The calculated density is 2.802 g/cm3 while the observed density is 2.78(1) g/cm3. The six strongest reflections in the X-ray powder diffraction pattern are: [dobs in Å (I)(hkl)] 5.079(100)(020), 3.072(58)(112), 9.71(55)(002), 4.501(50)(022), 7.02(28)(012), 2.686(25)(114). The crystal structure was refined from single-crystal data to a final R1 = 0.0386 for 1942 observed reflections [I > 2σ(I)] with all the hydrogen atoms located from a Difference–Fourier map. The asymmetric unit contains two independent Cu2+ cations that display a distorted square-bipyramidal (4+2) coordination, one oxalate anion, two hydroxyl anions and two water molecules. The coordination polyhedra of the two copper atoms share common edges to form polymeric rows running along [100] with composition [Cu2(C2O4)(OH)2∙2H2O]n. These rows are held together by a well-established pattern of hydrogen bonds between the oxalate oxygens not involved in the coordination to copper, the hydrogen atoms of the water molecules and the hydroxyl anions.
Secondary Metabolites from the Root Rot Biocontrol Fungus Phlebiopsis gigantea
Authors: Kälvö David , Menkis Audrius , Broberg Anders
Published: June 2018

Three cyclopentanoids (phlebiopsin A–C), one glycosylated p-terphenyl (methyl-terfestatin A), and o-orsellinaldehyde were isolated from the biocontrol fungus Phlebiopsis gigantea, and their structures were elucidated by 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analysis, as well as by LC-HRMS. The biological activity of the compounds against the root rot fungus Heterobasidion occidentale, as well as against Fusarium oxysporum and Penicillium canescens, was also investigated, but only o-orsellinaldehyde was found to have any antifungal activity in the concentration range tested.