bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why Arms Control?
Authors: Wolfsthal Jon Brook
Published: March 2020

America survived the nuclear age through a complex combination of diplomatic and military decisions, and a good deal of luck. One of the tools that proved its value in both reducing the risks of nuclear use and setting rules for the ongoing nuclear competition were negotiated, legally binding, and verified arms control agreements. Such pacts between the United States and the Soviet Union arguably prevented the nuclear arms racing from getting worse and helped both sides climb off the Cold War nuclear precipice. Several important agreements remain in place between the United States and Russia, to the benefit of both states. Arms control is under threat, however, from domestic forces in the United States and from Russian actions that range from treaty violations to the broader weaponization of risk. But arms control can and should play a useful role in reducing the risk of nuclear war and forging a new agreement between Moscow and Washington on the new rules of the nuclear road.
The Use of Internal Governance in the Renewed Kibbutz as a Tool for Social Maintenance and Development
Authors: Sade Yael , Lewin Eyal
Published: March 2020

The kibbutzim were established over a century ago, obtaining their power from communist and socialist ideologies. In spite of enormous changes, all over the world as well as in Israel, particularly the collapse of Communism and the rise of a capitalistic liberal Western lifestyle, the kibbutzim have maintained their basic social structure. Consequently, the question this research examines is what exactly are the social mechanisms that have enabled this continuity over the years. The answer that this article presents focuses on internal governance as a democratic apparatus. Given that the study of internal governance is an accepted method, the authors surveyed internal governance documents that relate to education and that are openly presented to the general public on the renewal kibbutzim sites. The authors fostered a holistic model developed by Rosenthal (1980), in order to indicate the exact roles of internal governance. Their findings establish the concept that internal governance proves to be a good option for community development and preservation. However, there seems to be a lack of awareness of the possibility of using internal governance more widely as a factor that contributes to the development and preservation of the kibbutz.
Macro-events in Verb–verb Compounds from the Perspective of Baseline and Elaboration: Iconicity in Typology and Grammaticalization
Authors: Chen Yiting
Published: March 2020

In Talmy’s typology of event integration, macro-events are classified into five types (motion, temporal contouring, state change, action correlating, and realization) by the framing event. Examining compound verbs representing macro-events cross-linguistically, this paper argues that macro-events can be classified into two types from the viewpoint of “elaboration” (Langacker 2016): augmentation (motion, state change, and realization) and adaptation (temporal contouring and action correlating). Based on iconicity, compound verbs can be said to be the best candidates for encoding conceptually integrated complex events considering their high lexical integrity. This paper shows that the two types of macro-events in compound verbs are distinct in the order of the framing event and the co-event, the representation of the framing event, and their lexical integrity. These results suggest that the differences in baseline/elaboration organization iconically emerge as explicit differences in linguistic forms, indicating the validity of the “iconicity of structured mapping in compounds”.
The New EU Counter-Terrorism Offences and the Complementary Mechanism of Controlling Terrorist Financing as Challenges for the Rule of Law
Authors: Karaliota Nikoletta , Kompatsiari Eliza , Lampakis Christos , Kaiafa-Gbandi Maria
Published: March 2020

This study analyses the modern EU counter-terrorism trends, focusing on two parallel axes: (a) the repressive one, where new criminal offences related to terrorist activity (receiving training for terrorism, terrorist financing, travelling and facilitating travelling for the purpose of terrorism) have been instituted, and (b) the preventive one, where establishing a framework of provisions aiming to deter terrorist financing prevails. After critically evaluating EU’s interventions in both axes, the study concludes by noting a ‘paradigm shift’ between repression and prevention in the field of countering terrorism, while suggesting proposals on a transposition of Directive (EU) 2017/541 into national legislations that adheres to the fundamental EU law principles, and a preventive control over terrorist financing that abides by the rule of law.
New remarkable species of the subgenus Stigmatodipogon Ishikawa, 1965 of the genus Dipogon Fox, 1897 (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) from Thailand and India
Authors: LOKTIONOV VALERY M.
Published: March 2020

Two new species, Dipogon (Stigmatodipogon) chiangmai Loktionov, sp. nov. and D. (S.) himalayensis Loktionov, sp. nov., are described and illustrated based on females from northern Thailand and north-eastern India. The subgenus Stigmatodipogon Ishikawa of the genus Dipogon Fox is newly recorded from India (Arunachal Pradesh). An updated key to the females is provided.
Agency
Authors: Weissman David
Published: March 2020

There is agency in all we do: thinking, doing, or making. We invent a tune, play, or use it to celebrate an occasion. Or we make a conceptual leap and ask more abstract questions about the conditions for agency. They include autonomy and self-appraisal, each contested by arguments immersing us in circumstances we don’t control. But can it be true we that have no personal responsibility for all we think and do?

'Agency: Moral Identity and Free Will' proposes that deliberation, choice, and free will emerged within the evolutionary history of animals with a physical advantage: organisms having cell walls or exoskeletons had an internal space within which to protect themselves from external threats or encounters. This defense was both structural and active: such organisms could ignore intrusions or inhibit risky behavior. Their capacities evolved with time: inhibition became the power to deliberate and choose the manner of one’s responses. Hence the ability of humans and some other animals to determine their reactions to problematic situations or to information that alters values and choices. This is free will as a material power, not as the conclusion to a conceptual argument. Having it makes us morally responsible for much we do. It prefigures moral identity.

Closely argued but plainly written, 'Agency: Moral Identity and Free Will' speaks for autonomy and responsibility when both are eclipsed by ideas that embed us in history or tradition. Our sense of moral choice and freedom is accurate. We are not altogether the creatures of our circumstances.
Experimental and Theoretical Investigation of Viscosity of Oxide Nanoparticles Dispersed in Different Carrier Medium
Authors: Hussain Taliv , Ansari Shahzeb
Published: March 2020

The main aim of this research work is to find the viscosity of the aluminium oxide, copper oxide and titanium dioxide nanoparticles at fixed shear rate of 100 s–1 at different values of temperature for fixed and varying concentration. For accomplishing the work, the
practical set up used was Rheometer of Anton Paar Series. It was found that viscosity was increasing with the increased percentage of nanoparticles in the main base fluid as deionised water (DIW), engine oil (EO) and ethylene glycol (EG). Furthermore, the viscosity was noticed to be decreasing
when the tempera- ture increases, this is because of decrease in the intermolecular forces. The relative viscosity was found experimentally and compared with the already existing models given by various researchers. The Masoumi model was found to satisfy the experimental data more closely
under predicting the Einstein model, Brinkman model, Wang model and Batchelor model.
Effect of Activator Concentration on the Properties of Metakaolin-Based Geopolymer
Authors: Cui Chao , Liu Zhen , Zhang Jianren , Cai Chunsheng , Peng Hui , Liu Yang
Published: March 2020

In the present study, an alkaline solution, prepared by sodium silicate (Na2SiO3) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH), was used as an activator for the preparation of a metakaolin-based geopolymer with high compressive strength. The effects of the factors, including the
modulus (SiO2/Na2O ratio) of the alkaline activator, activator concentration, curing temperature, and curing time on the mechanical properties of the geopolymer were examined using orthogonal tests. Test results showed that the concentration of the alkaline activator
is the primary factor affecting the mechanical properties of the geopolymer, followed by the modulus of the alkaline activator. The compressive strength of the geopolymer increases with an increase in activator concentration and decrease in the modulus of the alkaline activator. Subsequently,
the reaction degree of the geopolymer and the reaction products corresponding to various concentrations of the activator were investigated using microcalorimetric analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) analysis, and Scanning electron microscopy-Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (SEM-EDS)
analysis, and the mechanism of the activator concentration affecting the geopolymer properties was also studied. It was found that the hydrolysis reaction and the polymerization degree were improved with an increase in the activator concentration. When the activator concentration increased
from 50% to 80%, the compressive strength of the geopolymer increased from 21.54 MPa to 99.89 MPa. In addition, the SEM images also showed that the reaction products with a higher activator concentration, had a denser and more homogeneous matrix than that of products with a lower activator
concentration.
Characteristics of Anti-Fungal Activity to Alternaria alternate of Different Proportion of Extraction from Sunflower Discs and Stalks
Authors: Li Jialei , Zhao Ping , Zhao Ying , Tian Li , Tian Zhenji , Wang Cong
Published: March 2020

The characteristics of anti-fungal activity to Alternaria alternate of three fractions of water, ethyl acetate, petroleum ether of sunflower discs and stalks have been studied. The fractions of water, ethyl acetate, petroleum ether of sunflower disc and petroleum ether fraction
of sunflower stalk have good anti-fungal activity to A. alternate. The best concentrations of anti-fungal activity to A. alternate of water, ethyl acetate, petroleum ether fractions and petroleum ether fraction of sunflower stalk were 320 mg/mL, 240 mg/mL, 160 mg/mL and 160 mg/mL,
respectively. The anti-fungal activities to A. alternate of these four kinds of extract are increased with the increase in concentration and arrive at stability after the best concentration of anti-fungal activity to A. alternate. The ethyl acetate fraction and petroleum ether
fraction of sunflower stalk had no anti-fungal activity to A. alternate.
Ammonium hydroxide modification of polylactic acid and polyglycolic acid monofilaments for acupoint catgut embedding therapy
Authors: Fu Shaoju , Lu Yao , Zhang Peihua
Published: March 2020

Polylactic acid (PLA) and polyglycolic acid (PGA) monofilaments have attracted much attention for their wide usage in acupoint catgut embedding therapy (ACET). Their application is restricted, however, by their poor hydrophilicity and cell attachment properties. In this study, PLA and PGA monofilaments were produced from polymer chips, and then modified by the application of an ammonium hydroxide solution to the surface. The modified PLA and PGA monofilaments were fully characterized with respect to their structural, mechanical, and in-vitro properties. The results showed that the surface roughness and hydrophilicity of the materials were greatly increased; surface modified samples of both materials exhibited the smallest contact angle values: 79.2° ± 2.5° (sample PLA2) and 75.9° ± 1.4° (sample PGA2). The weights and diameters and the tensile and flexibility properties of the materials changed little with surface modification, but their swelling ratios increased significantly. All the prepared samples were non-toxic (more than 75% of cells being viable). Surface modification also enhanced cell attachment: PLA2 (48.15% ± 2.16%) and PGA2 (59.43% ± 3.18%) showed the largest cell attachment values (cultured for 48 h) among the samples. In summary, the study proves the feasibility of ammonium hydroxide modification of PLA and PGA, which is beneficial for guiding future work on developing functional PLA or PGA materials for ACET.
Reframing Our Approach to Facial Analysis
Authors: Miller Lauren E. , Kozin Elliott D. , Lee Linda N.
Published: March 2020

Facial analysis is a foundational aspect of facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. Unfortunately, ideal proportions of beauty are commonly discussed without much thought regarding their historical derivation and associated cultural implications. Facial analysis often is limited to narrow ethnic and gender‐normative aesthetics. As we evolve as a specialty that treats disparate patient populations and embraces a diverse community of surgical trainees, it may be time to reframe our approach to facial analysis education.
Pilot Study to Assess the Use of Ultrasound in Evaluating the Abnormal Pediatric Airway
Authors: Bell Jason R. , Cohen Aliza P. , Graff Justin T. , Fleck Robert J. , O’Hara Sally , de Alarcon Alessandro , Hart Catherine K.
Published: March 2020

In this study, we sought to explore the feasibility of using ultrasonography to evaluate airway anomalies in awake children with previous airway reconstruction. For the month of December 2018, we reviewed the medical records of patients aged <18 years old with prior airway reconstruction who had an outpatient appointment and a microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy within 24 hours of each other. Four patients met inclusion criteria and were enrolled. Sonographic airway images and measurements were obtained during the outpatient appointment and compared with those obtained during endoscopy. Ultrasound identified extraluminal stents and glottic, subglottic, and tracheal pathology. Subglottic measurements obtained sonographically were within 0.1 to 0.5 mm of the outer diameter of the appropriate endotracheal tubes. Ultrasound did not visualize tracheotomy tubes or posterolateral pathology. Our findings lay the foundation for expanding the role of ultrasound in pediatric airway assessment, keeping in mind its apparent inability to visualize posterolateral airway pathology.
Long‐Term Complications of Osteocutaneous Free Flaps in Head and Neck Reconstruction
Authors: Swendseid Brian , Kumar Ayan , Sweeny Larissa , Wax Mark K. , Zhan Tingting , Goldman Richard A. , Krein Howard , Heffelfinger Ryan N. , Luginbuhl Adam J. , Curry Joseph M.
Published: March 2020

Objective

To determine the frequency at which patients with osteocutaneous free flap reconstruction of the head and neck develop long‐term complications and identify predisposing perioperative factors.

Study Design

A prospectively maintained database of free flaps performed at a single institution over a 10‐year period was queried.

Setting

Single tertiary care referral center.

Subjects and Methods

In total, 250 osseous or osteocutaneous free flaps (OCFFs) for mandibular or maxillary reconstruction were analyzed. Data were collected on demographics, preoperative therapy, resection location, adjuvant treatment, complications, and subsequent surgeries, and multivariate analysis was performed. Subgroup analysis based on perioperative factors was performed.

Results

The median follow‐up time was 23 months. In 185 patients with at least 6 months of follow‐up, 17.3% had at least 1 long‐term complication, most commonly wound breakdown, fistula or plate extrusion (13.5%), osteoradionecrosis or nonunion (6.5%), and infected hardware (5.9%). Prior chemoradiotherapy and cancer diagnosis predisposed patients to long‐term complications. At the 5‐year follow‐up, 21.7% of patients had experienced a long‐term complication.

Conclusions

Long‐term complications after OCFF occurred in 17% of patients. In this series, a preoperative history of chemoradiation and those undergoing maxillary reconstruction were at high risk for the development of long‐term complications and thus warrant diligent follow‐up. However, OCFFs can often enjoy long‐term viability and survival, even in the case of perioperative complications and salvage surgery.
Lactobacilli spp.: real-time evaluation of biofilm growth
Authors: Martinez Stacy , Garcia Jonathan Gomez , Williams Roy , Elmassry Moamen , West Andrew , Hamood Abdul , Hurtado Deborah , Gudenkauf Brent , Ventolini Gary , Schlabritz-Loutsevitch Natalia
Published: March 2020

Background

Biofilm is a fundamental bacterial survival mode which proceeds through three main generalized phases: adhesion, maturation, and dispersion.Lactobacillispp. (LB) are critical components of gut and reproductive health and are widely used probiotics. Evaluation of time-dependent mechanisms of biofilm formation is important for understanding of host-microbial interaction and development of therapeutic interventions. Time-dependentLBbiofilm growth was studied in two systems: large biofilm output in continuous flow system (microfermenter (M), Institute Pasteur, France) and electrical impedance-based real time label-free cell analyzer (C) (xCELLigence, ACEA Bioscience Inc., San Diego, CA).L. plantarumbiofilm growth in M system was video-recorded, followed by analyses using IMARIS software (Bitplane, Oxford Instrument Company, Concord, MA, USA). Additionally, whole genome expression and analyses of attached (A) and dispersed (D) biofilm phases at 24 and 48 h were performed.

Results

The dynamic of biofilm growth ofL. plantarumwas similar in both systems except for D phases. Comparison of the transcriptome of A and D phases revealed, that 121 transcripts differ between two phases at 24 h. and 35 transcripts – at 48 h. of M growth. The main pathways, down-regulated in A compared to D phases after 24 h. were transcriptional regulation, purine nucleotide biosynthesis, and L-aspartate biosynthesis, and the upregulated pathways were fatty acid and phospholipid metabolism as well as ABC transporters and purine nucleotide biosynthesis. FourLBspecies differed in the duration and amplitude of attachment phases, while growth phases were similar.

Conclusion

LBspp. biofilm growth and propagation area dynamic, time-dependent processes with species-specific and time specific characteristics. The dynamic ofLBbiofilm growth agrees with published pathophysiological data and points out that real time evaluation is an important tool in understanding growth of microbial communities.
Hemoglobin levels and anemia evaluation among pregnant women in the remote and rural high lands of mid-western Nepal: a hospital based study
Authors: Sharma Deepak , Amgain Kapil , Panta Prem Prasad , Pokhrel Bishal
Published: March 2020

Background

Anemia though is a major risk factor for unfavorable pregnancy outcomes; no previous studies have yet described the hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations and anemia prevalence among pregnant women of remote mid western highlands of Nepal where the aggravating factors that increase the risk of anemia are very common. In addition, the physiological adaptive Hb rise to altitude was considered in the study while evaluating anemia. Thus, our primary objectives were to study the hemoglobin levels and prevalence of anemia among pregnant women of Jumla and its adjoining districts, and to assess the potential associations of hemoglobin and anemia with women’s characteristics.

Methods

The study was conducted in 319 singleton term non-smoker pregnant women who visited to the teaching hospital for delivery. Their blood samples were tested for Hb and related sociodemographic information was collected. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and independent t-test were used to compare the mean Hb levels. Multiple linear regression model and multiple logistic regression model were used to assess the association of Hb level and anemia with pregnant women’s characteristics. The prevalence of anemia was calculated based on the altitude and pregnancy-adjusted Hb cut off value for anemia [{11+ adjustment factor (1.3)} gm./dl].

Results

The overall mean hemoglobin concentration was (13.497 ± 1.64) gm/dl, ranging from 8 to 19.20 g/dl. The pregnant women Hb level showed significant association with their age (Coeff = 0.059; 95% CI: 0.011, 0.106; p = 0.015) and parity (Coeff = − 0.21; 95% CI: − 0.382, − 0.038; p = 0.017). The overall prevalence of anemia in the study population was 17.9% (57/319), which varied with age, parity and ethnicity. The disadvantaged Janajatis were more likely (OR = 4.615, 95% CI: 1.48, 14.35, p = 0.008) to have anemia compared to upper cast group.

Conclusion

The mean Hb concentration was high and prevalence rate of anemia was low among pregnant women in karnali zone compared to average Nepali pregnant women. Women’s age and parity were significant predictors of Hb level. Ethnicity, however, was associated with the occurrence of anemia.
Intention to quit water pipe smoking among Iranian women: a qualitative directed content analysis
Authors: Sabzmakan Leila , Eslami Fatemeh , Sighaldeh Shirin Shahbazi , Izuka Nkeonye Judith
Published: March 2020

Background

Water-pipe smoking is the most common type of tobacco used among Iranian women. The aim of this study was to explain women’s perceptions of their intention for quitting water-pipe smoking based on the theory of planned behavior.

Methods

The study was a qualitative content analysis which was carried out over 4 months in 2016 in Tehran-Iran. The participants were 26 women ages 18 to 45-years-old who smoked water-pipe and were selected through snowball sampling. The study was performed in hookah cafes, parks, and homes. The data were collected through individual interviews. The interviews were open-ended questions based on the theory of planned behavior. Directed content analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results

Findings showed that women did not intend to quit water-pipe in that time. Main contributing factors influencing not having intention of cessation were positive attitude and false beliefs toward hookah smoking, as well as having peers and family members who smoked water-pipe or approved its use. Although most females realized the obstacles associated with hookah cessation, they believed that quitting water-pipe smoking was up to them and could control more barriers.

Conclusion

Social pressure, positive attitude and false beliefs towards hookah smoking, as well as external and internal obstacles diminished women ‘s intention for cessation. Therefore, it is recommended to apply the theory of planned behavior into behavior change interventions in order to increase the intention to quit water-pipe smoking.
Correction to: Investigation on Brucella infection in farm animals in Saham, Sultanate of Oman with reference to human brucellosis outbreak
Authors: ElTahir Yasmin , Al-Farsi Anfal , Al-Marzooqi Waleed , Al-Toobi Alghalya , Gaafar Osman M. , Jay Maryne , Corde Yannick , Bose Shekar , Al-Hamrashdi Abeer , Al-Kharousi Kaadhia , Rajamony Sunil , Asi Muhammed Nadeem , Al-Saqri Nasseb , AlBusaidi Rudaina , Elshafie Elshafie I. , Johnson Eugene H.
Published: March 2020

The original article [1] incorrectly presents final author, Eugene H. Johnson’s name incorrectly whereby middle initial, ‘H.’ is mistakenly presented as a Family Name.
Urolithin a attenuates IL-1β-induced inflammatory responses and cartilage degradation via inhibiting the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathways in rat articular chondrocytes
Authors: Ding Sheng-long , Pang Zhi-ying , Chen Xue-mei , Li Zheng , Liu Xin-xin , Zhai Qi-lin , Huang Jun-ming , Ruan Zhi-yong
Published: March 2020

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is characterized by inflammation and extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation and is one of the most common chronic degenerative joint diseases that causes pain and disability in adults. Urolithin A (UA) has been widely reported for its anti-inflammatory properties in several chronic diseases. However, the effects of UA on OA remain unclear. The aim of the current study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanism of UA in interleukin-1β (IL-1β)-induced chondrocytes.

Results

No marked UA cytotoxicity was noted, and UA protected cartilage from damage following IL-1β stimulation in micromasses. Moreover, UA promoted the expression of anabolic factors including Sox-9, Collagen II, and Aggrecan while inhibiting the expression of catabolic factors such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs 4 (ADAMTS-4) in rat chondrocytes. Protective effects of UA were also observed in ex vivo organ culture of articular cartilage. Mechanistically, IL-1β significantly activated and upregulated the expression of p-ERK 1/2, p-JNK, p-P38, and p-P65, while UA protected chondrocytes against IL-1β-induced injury by activating the mitogen-activated kinase (MAPK)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways.

Conclusion

Our results provide the evidence that UA could attenuate IL-1β-induced cell injury in chondrocytes via its anti-inflammatory action. UA may be a promising therapeutic agent in the treatment of OA.
You just have to have other models, our DNA is different: the experiences of indigenous people who use illicit drugs and/or alcohol accessing substance use treatment
Authors:   Western Aboriginal Harm Reduction Society, Lavalley Jennifer , Kastor Shelda , Tourangeau Malcolm , Goodman Ashley , Kerr Thomas
Published: March 2020

Objectives

In Canada, and elsewhere, indigenous peoples who use illicit drugs and/or alcohol (IPWUID/A) commonly experience vulnerability and a disproportionate burden of harm related to substance use. In Vancouver, Canada, there are concerns that inequitable access, retention, and post treatment care within substance use treatment programs may exacerbate these harms. This study sought to understand the policies and practices with the potential to produce inequities and vulnerabilities for IPWUID/A in substance use treatment, situate the vulnerabilities of IPWUID/A in substance use treatment within the context of wider structural vulnerability of IPWUID/A, and generate recommendations for culturally safe treatment options.

Methods

This research employed a qualitative indigenous-led community-based approach using the indigenous methodology of talking circles to explore experiences with substance use treatment. Under the participatory research framework, community researchers led the study design, data collection, and analysis. Talking circles elicited peers’ experiences of substance use treatment and were audio-recorded and transcribed.

Results

The talking circles identified three key themes that illustrated the experiences of IPWUID/A when accessing substance use treatment: (a) barriers to accessing detox and substance use treatment; (b) incompatible and culturally inappropriate structure, policies, and procedures within treatment programs, such as forced Christianity within treatment settings; and (c) the importance of culturally relevant, peer-led substance use treatment programming.

Discussion

Our work demonstrates that some IPWUID/A have limited access to or retention in mainstream treatment due to excessive waiting times, strict rules, and lack of cultural appropriate care while in treatment. However, IPWUID/A narratives revealed strategies that can improve IPWUID/A access and experiences, including those informed by the diverse perspectives of IPWUID/A and those that include trauma-informed and culturally safe practices.
Pathogenesis of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: role of IL-6 in airway epithelial cell dysfunction
Authors: Bequignon Emilie , Mangin David , Bécaud Justine , Pasquier Jennifer , Angely Christelle , Bottier Mathieu , Escudier Estelle , Isabey Daniel , Filoche Marcel , Louis Bruno , Papon Jean-François , Coste André
Published: March 2020

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is characterized by an alteration in airway epithelial cell functions including barrier function, wound repair mechanisms, mucociliary clearance. The mechanisms leading to epithelial cell dysfunction in nasal polyps (NPs) remain poorly understood. Our hypothesis was that among the inflammatory cytokines involved in NPs, IL-6 could alter epithelial repair mechanisms and mucociliary clearance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro effects of IL-6 on epithelial repair mechanisms in a wound repair model and on ciliary beating in primary cultures of Human Nasal Epithelial Cells (HNEC).

Methods

Primary cultures of HNEC taken from 38 patients during surgical procedures for CRSwNP were used in an in vitro model of wound healing. Effects of increasing concentrations of IL-6 (1 ng/mL, 10 ng/mL, and 100 ng/mL) and other ILs (IL-5, IL-9, IL-10) on wound closure kinetics were compared to cultures without IL-modulation. After wound closure, the differentiation process was characterized under basal conditions and after IL supplementation using cytokeratin-14, MUC5AC, and βIV tubulin as immunomarkers of basal, mucus, and ciliated cells, respectively. The ciliated edges of primary cultures were analyzed on IL-6 modulation by digital high-speed video-microscopy to measure: ciliary beating frequency (CBF), ciliary length, relative ciliary density, metachronal wavelength and the ciliary beating efficiency index.

Results

Our results showed that: (i) IL-6 accelerated airway wound repair in vitro, with a dose–response effect whereas no effect was observed after other ILs-stimulation. After 24 h, 79% of wounded wells with IL6-100 were fully repaired, vs 46% in the IL6-10 group, 28% in the IL6-1 group and 15% in the control group; (ii) specific migration analyses of closed wound at late repair stage (Day 12) showed IL-6 had the highest migration compared with other ILs (iii) The study of the IL-6 effect on ciliary function showed that CBF and metachronal wave increased but without significant modifications of ciliary density, length of cilia and efficiency index.

Conclusion

The up-regulated epithelial cell proliferation observed in polyps could be induced by IL-6 in the case of prior epithelial damage. IL-6 could be a major cytokine in NP physiopathology.
Exosomal MALAT1 sponges miR-26a/26b to promote the invasion and metastasis of colorectal cancer via FUT4 enhanced fucosylation and PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Xu Jingchao , Xiao Yang , Liu Bing , Pan Shimeng , Liu Qianqian , Shan Yujia , Li Shuangda , Qi Yu , Huang Yiran , Jia Li
Published: March 2020

Background

Exosomes are vesicles of endocytic origin released by various cell types and emerging as important mediators in tumor cells. Human metastases-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) is a long non-coding RNA known to promote cell proliferation, metastasis, and invasion in colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

The expression of MALAT1 was analyzed in CRC using qRT-PCR. FUT4 and fucosylation levels were detected in CRC clinical samples and CRC cell lines by immunofluorescent staining, western blot and lectin blot analysis. CRC derived exosomes were isolated and used to examine their tumor-promoting effects in vitro and in vivo.

Results

The invasive and metastatic abilities of primary CRC cells were enhanced after exposure to exosomes derived from highly metastatic CRC cells, which increased the fucosyltransferase 4 (FUT4) levels and fucosylation not by directly transmitting FUT4 mRNA. Exosomal MALAT1 increased FUT4 expresssion via sponging miR-26a/26b. Furthermore, MALAT1/miR-26a/26b/FUT4 axis played an important role in exosome-mediated CRC progression. Exosomal MALAT1 also mediated FUT4-associated fucosylation and activated the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway.

Conclusions

These data indicated that exosomal MALAT1 promoted the malignant behavior of CRC cells by sponging miR-26a/26b via regulating FUT4 and activating PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.
Physiology of the Respiratory Drive in ICU Patients: Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Jonkman Annemijn H. , de Vries Heder J. , Heunks Leo M. A.
Published: March 2020

This article is one of ten reviews selected from the Annual Update in Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine 2020. Other selected articles can be found online at https://www.biomedcentral.com/collections/annualupdate2020. Further information about the Annual Update in Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine is available from http://www.springer.com/series/8901.
Correction to: Nrf2 activation through the PI3K/GSK-3 axisprotects neuronal cells from Aβ-mediatedoxidative and metabolic damage
Authors: Sotolongo Krystal , Ghiso Jorge , Rostagno Agueda
Published: March 2020

After the publication of this article [1], we became aware that there were errors in Figs. 4 and 31.
Microcirculatory dysfunction and dead-space ventilation in early ARDS: a hypothesis-generating observational study
Authors: Ospina-Tascón Gustavo A. , Bautista Diego F. , Madriñán Humberto J. , Valencia Juan D. , Bermúdez William F. , Quiñones Edgardo , Calderón-Tapia Luis Eduardo , Hernandez Glenn , Bruhn Alejandro , De Backer Daniel
Published: March 2020

Background

Ventilation/perfusion inequalities impair gas exchange in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Although increased dead-space ventilation (VD/VT) has been described in ARDS, its mechanism is not clearly understood. We sought to evaluate the relationships between dynamic variations inVD/VTand extra-pulmonary microcirculatory blood flow detected at sublingual mucosa hypothesizing that an altered microcirculation, which is a generalized phenomenon during severe inflammatory conditions, could influence ventilation/perfusion mismatching manifested by increases inVD/VTfraction during early stages of ARDS.

Methods

Forty-two consecutive patients with early moderate and severe ARDS were included. PEEP was set targeting the best respiratory-system compliance after a PEEP-decremental recruitment maneuver. After 60 min of stabilization, hemodynamics and respiratory mechanics were recorded and blood gases collected.VD/VTwas calculated from the CO2production ($$V_{{{\text{CO}}_{2} }}$$VCO2) and CO2exhaled fraction ($$F_{{{\text{ECO}}_{2} }}$$FECO2) measurements by volumetric capnography. Sublingual microcirculatory images were simultaneously acquired using a sidestream dark-field device for an ulterior blinded semi-quantitative analysis. All measurements were repeated 24 h after.

Results

Percentage of small vessels perfused (PPV) and microcirculatory flow index (MFI) were inverse and significantly related toVD/VTat baseline (Spearman’s rho = − 0.76 and − 0.63,p < 0.001;R2 = 0.63, and 0.48,p < 0.001, respectively) and 24 h after (Spearman’s rho = − 0.71, and − 0.65;p < 0.001;R2 = 0.66 and 0.60,p < 0.001, respectively). Other respiratory, macro-hemodynamic and oxygenation parameters did not correlate withVD/VT. Variations in PPV between baseline and 24 h were inverse and significantly related to simultaneous changes inVD/VT(Spearman’s rho = − 0.66,p < 0.001;R2 = 0.67,p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Increased heterogeneity of microcirculatory blood flow evaluated at sublingual mucosa seems to be related to increases inVD/VT, while respiratory mechanics and oxygenation parameters do not. Whether there is a cause–effect relationship between microcirculatory dysfunction and dead-space ventilation in ARDS should be addressed in future research.
A hybrid Caputo fractional modeling for thermostat with hybrid boundary value conditions
Authors: Baleanu Dumitru , Etemad Sina , Rezapour Shahram
Published: March 2020

We provide an extension for the second-order differential equation of a thermostat model to the fractional hybrid equation and inclusion versions. We consider boundary value conditions of this problem in the form of the hybrid conditions. To prove the existence of solutions for our hybrid fractional thermostat equation and inclusion versions, we apply the well-known Dhage fixed point theorems for single-valued and set-valued maps. Finally, we give two examples to illustrate our main results.
Financial integration and total factor productivity: in consideration of different capital controls and foreign direct investment
Authors: Arif-Ur-Rahman Md , Inaba Kazuo
Published: March 2020

There is a long debate among policymakers and academicians regarding whether assessments of international financial integration have significant growth benefits and whether such benefits compensate for the accompanied risks. Recent financial crisis has revived this debate. The previous empirical studies have not been able to establish conclusive presumed benefits of financial integration for economic growth. This paper attempts to analyze the financial openness and total factor productivity (TFP) growth nexususing dynamic panel regression models for a substantial sample of countries ranging from year 1970 to 2014. Different measures of financial openness are incorporated in the dataset. We find evidence that financial integration is associated with higher TFP growth. A range of integration measures (both de jure and de facto) shows robust association with financial integration and TFP growth. The result also suggests that financial development might reduce the marginal effects of financial integration on TFP growth. This finding, however, appears to be influenced by the recent global economic turmoil and excessive private finance, especially in recent years.
Open resection and reconstruction of a Nasoseptal Chondrosarcoma: Case report and literature review
Authors: Lee Changseok , Forner David , Bullock Martin , Rigby Matthew H. , Corsten Martin , Trites Jonathan R. , Taylor S. Mark
Published: March 2020

Background

Primary chondrosarcomas of the nasal septum are rare, with a variety of clinical features that evade detection and treatment. While endoscopic surgery has become increasingly accessible, open approaches may be needed to provide adequate visualization for tumour ablation and reconstruction. We report the resection and reconstructive considerations of a septal chondrosarcoma.

Case presentation

A 75-year-old woman presented with a 3-year history of a slow growing, firm mass in the nasal tip causing protrusion and septal fullness. Computed Tomography scan of the paranasal sinuses revealed a well-circumscribed, 2.2 cm mass at the anterior nasal septum extending into the right vestibule. Biopsy of the cartilaginous lesion confirmed the diagnosis of a low-grade chondrosarcoma by histopathology. The tumour was removed using a transcolumellar open rhinoplasty approach with a large septal resection. Primary reconstruction of the surgical defect was performed using an L-shaped strut from the nasal keystone area to the columella. Follow-up examinations demonstrated no evidence of recurrent disease with satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes at 1-year.

Conclusion

This report describes a case of nasal septal chondrosarcoma successfully treated with surgical excision using an open rhinoplasty approach. Only 5–10% of chondrosarcomas are located in the head and neck region and arise rarely in the nasal septum in approximately 2–4%. With this mass, an open rhinoplasty approach was required to allow optimal exposure of the margins and to facilitate reconstruction without disruption of normal sinonasal anatomy and function. Although rare, chondrosarcoma of the nasal septum should be considered in the differential diagnosis of nasal masses.
Crossing Oceans: Preclinical Collaboration to Improve Pediatric Drug Development
Authors: Reaman Gregory , Stancato Louis , Vassal Gilles , Maris John M.
Published: March 2020

Changes in the regulatory environment affecting pediatric cancer drug development in the United States and the European Union provide unprecedented opportunity to advance the concept of precision medicine to children with cancer. Increasing evidence suggests that new drugs and biologic products directed at molecular targets presumed to be etiologically associated with many adult cancers may well provide therapeutic options for selected subsets of children with cancer despite their histologic and biologic differences. Regulatory requirements for early evaluation of appropriate new drugs for children based on their molecular mechanism of action, rather than the specific clinical indications for which they are developed and/or approved, will shorten the unacceptable time lag between first-in-human and first-in-children studies. The relative scarcity of pediatric patients eligible for biomarker-directed studies and the ever-expanding compendium of new targeted agents mandate rational, science-based decision-making in selecting and prioritizing appropriate drugs to study early in development. A critical component of the evidence base in such decision-making includes preclinical testing of relevant drugs in pediatric tumor-specific in vitro and in vivo models. Established preclinical testing programs with academic investigator–industry collaborations are actively engaged in such activities. International collaboration is required to address the resource constraints and increasing number of potential products to be tested in a timely, efficient, nonduplicative, and cost-effective manner.
Mechanisms of Acquired Resistance to Savolitinib, a Selective MET Inhibitor in MET-Amplified Gastric Cancer
Authors: Frigault Melanie M. , Markovets Aleksandra , Nuttall Barrett , Kim Kyoung-Mee , Park Se Hoon , Gangolli Esha A. , Mortimer Peter G.S. , Hollingsworth Simon J. , Hong Jung Yong , Kim Kyung , Kim Seung Tae , Barrett J. Carl , Lee Jeeyun
Published: March 2020

PURPOSE

Some gastric cancers harbor MET gene amplifications that can be targeted by selective MET inhibitors to achieve tumor responses, but resistance eventually develops. Savolitinib, a selective MET inhibitor, is beneficial for treating patients with MET-driven gastric cancer. Understanding the resistance mechanisms is important for optimizing postfailure treatment options.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Here, we identified the mechanisms of acquired resistance to savolitinib in 3 patients with gastric cancer and MET-amplified tumors who showed a clinical response and then cancer progression. Longitudinal circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is useful for monitoring resistance during treatment and progression when rebiopsy cannot be performed.

RESULTS

Using a next-generation sequencing 100-gene panel, we identified the target mechanisms of resistance MET D1228V/N/H and Y1230C mutations or high copy number MET gene amplifications that emerge when resistance to savolitinib develops in patients with MET-amplified gastric cancer.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated the utility of ctDNA in gastric cancer and confirmed this approach using baseline tumor tissue or rebiopsy.
Serum cobalt concentrations remain at low levels at a minimum of 20 years following metal-on-metal total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Waldstein Wenzel , Koller Ulrich , Springer Bernhard , Kolbitsch Paul , Brodner Wolfram , Windhager Reinhard , Lass Richard
Published: March 2020

Aims

Second-generation metal-on-metal (MoM) articulations in total hip arthroplasty (THA) were introduced in order to reduce wear-related complications. The current study reports on the serum cobalt levels and the clinical outcome at a minimum of 20 years following THA with a MoM (Metasul) or a ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoP) bearing.

Methods

The present study provides an update of a previously published prospective randomized controlled study, evaluating the serum cobalt levels of a consecutive cohort of 100 patients following THA with a MoM or a CoP articulation. A total of 31 patients were available for clinical and radiological follow-up examination. After exclusion of 11 patients because of other cobalt-containing implants, 20 patients (MoM (n = 11); CoP (n = 9)) with a mean age of 69 years (42 to 97) were analyzed. Serum cobalt levels were compared to serum cobalt levels five years out of surgery.

Results

The median cobalt concentration in the MoM group was 1.04 μg/l (interquartile range (IQR) 0.64 to 1.70) at a mean of 21 years (20 to 24) postoperatively and these values were similar (p = 0.799) to cobalt levels at five years. In the CoP control group, the median cobalt levels were below the detection limit (< 0.3 μg/l; median 0.15 μg/l, IQR 0.15 to 0.75) at 20 years. The mean Harris Hip Score was 91.4 points (61 to 100) in the MoM group and 92.8 points (63 to 100) in the CoP group.

Conclusion

This study represents the longest follow-up series evaluating the serum cobalt levels after 28 mm head MoM bearing THA and shows that serum cobalt concentrations remain at low levels at a mean of 21 years (20 to 24) after implantation. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res. 2020;9(3):145–150.
INTERAÇÕES MEDICAMENTOSAS POTENCIAIS EM PACIENTES HOSPITALIZADOS
Authors: Petri Aniele Aparecida , Schneider Aline , Kleibert Karine Raquel Uhdich , Bittencourt Vivian Lemes Lobo , Winkelmann Eliane Roseli , Colet Christiane de Fátima
Published: March 2020

Introdução: No ambiente hospitalar é comum para a prática clínica o uso de muitos medicamentos, o que leva um risco da ocorrência de potenciais interações medicamentosas. Objetivo: Descrever as interações medicamentosas potenciais nas prescrições de unidades de internação hospitalar. Métodos: Trata-se de um estudo quantitativo, transversal, descritivo realizado em unidades de internação clínica e cirúrgica de um hospital privado. Os dados dos medicamentos foram coletados a partir do prontuário e classificados pela Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical. As interações medicamentosas potenciais foram checadas no software Micromedex. Resultados: A amostra foi constituída por 612 indivíduos, 324 pacientes cirúrgicos e 288 clínicos. Houve predomínio do sexo feminino, idade média de 55 anos com variação de 18 a 100 anos, 29,1% possuíam ensino fundamental incompleto, 96,2% da raça branca e 62,4% casados. O medicamento mais prescrito foi a morfina, seguida do enalapril. As interações medicamentosas classificadas como graves totalizaram 54,8%. Os fatores associados com apresentar interações medicamentosas foram: apresentar hipertensão, uso de anti-hipertensivos, em especial as classes farmacológicas beta-bloqueadores e inibidores da ECA; uso de psicoanalépticos, psicoléptico e corticoides sistêmicos. Conclusões: No presente estudo, a potencial interação medicamentosa mais frequente foi entre a morfina e o tramadol, a média de interações medicamentosas foi de 3,6±4,9/paciente. Destacou-se a necessidade da avaliação do uso de medicamentos durante a internação hospitalar e suas potenciais interações medicamentosas, visando minimizar os riscos relacionados ao uso de medicamentos e aumentando a segurança do paciente internado.
Development of a low-cost imaging system for remote mosquito surveillance
Authors: Goodwin Adam , Glancey Margaret , Ford Tristan , Scavo Laura , Brey Jewell , Heier Collyn , Durr Nicholas J. , Acharya Soumyadipta
Published: March 2020

Targeted vector control strategies aiming to prevent mosquito borne disease are severely limited by the logistical burden of vector surveillance, the monitoring of an area to understand mosquito species composition, abundance and spatial distribution. We describe development of an imaging system within a mosquito trap to remotely identify caught mosquitoes, including selection of the image resolution requirement, a design to meet that specification, and evaluation of the system. The necessary trap image resolution was determined to be 16 lp/mm, or 31.25um. An optics system meeting these specifications was implemented in a BG-GAT mosquito trap. Its ability to provide images suitable for accurate specimen identification was evaluated by providing entomologists with images of individual specimens, taken either with a microscope or within the trap and asking them to provide a species identification, then comparing these results. No difference in identification accuracy between the microscope and the trap images was found; however, due to limitations of human species classification from a single image, the system is only able to provide accurate genus-level mosquito classification. Further integration of this system with machine learning computer vision algorithms has the potential to provide near-real time mosquito surveillance data at the species level.