bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Civilian crime during the British and American occupation of Western Germany, 1945–1946: Analyses of military government court records
Authors: Kehoe Thomas J. , Kehoe E. James
Published: November 2019

The post-World War II occupation of western Germany remains salient to developing theories of post-war crime, insurgency, and policing during post-conflict reconstruction. Yet there are no quantitative assessments of civilian crime for its first year (1945–6). Different from the Soviet-controlled East, where there is a relatively robust consensus that social and governmental disorder led to prolonged violent criminality, the picture for the western US and British zones is less clear and the literature is disjointed. We address this gap and in so doing help resolve the account of post-war criminality in the west with new data derived from the records of the US and British military government courts. Comparative analyses of crimes against the person, against property, and against civil restrictions were conducted. We employed a historical criminological approach to interpreting these data and to extrapolating their findings to current theories of counterinsurgency, post-conflict policing, and reconstruction. They indicate high rates of petty property crimes, minor civil violations, and limited violent disorder, commensurate with earlier studies of 1947 onwards. We could also better assess contested accounts of social conditions, revealing a more nuanced picture than prior historical analyses. Drawing on criminological, psychological, and counterinsurgency theories, we suggest that economic and social strain forced extensive minor law-breaking that, when combined with intense anxieties, manifested as fear of violent crime. But, importantly, Germans remained confident in the US and British military governments’ ability to ensure security, aiding the west’s recovery.
Seasonal variation in home blood pressure and its relationship with room temperature in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ushigome Emi , Kitagawa Nobuko , Kitae Aya , Kimura Tomonori , Iwai Keiko , Oyabu Chikako , Ushigome Hidetaka , Yokota Isao , Hamaguchi Masahide , Asano Mai , Yamazaki Masahiro , Fukui Michiaki
Published: November 2019

Our aim was to examine the seasonal variations in home blood pressure measurements and the relationship of ambient temperature or room temperature with the seasonal variations in home blood pressure measurements using a home blood pressure telemonitoring system in patients with type 2 diabetes. The home blood pressure measurements of 41 patients with type 2 diabetes were self-measured. Patients performed triplicate morning and evening blood pressure measurements at least 5 days per month for 12 consecutive months. The lowest values of both systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were observed in August (126.3 and 70.4 mmHg, respectively), and the highest systolic and diastolic blood pressure values were observed in January (140.3 and 76.9 mmHg, respectively). The root mean squared error between the mean systolic blood pressure and room temperature was 6.50 mmHg and between mean systolic blood pressure and ambient temperature was 6.55 mmHg. Using a home blood pressure telemonitoring system, this study revealed for the first time that home blood pressure varied seasonally, with the highest values observed in January and the lowest values observed in August, and that the seasonal variations in home blood pressure were related to room temperature as well as ambient temperature.
Vibro-insulation properties for spacer knitted fabric as a comparative study
Authors: Frydrysiak Michal , Pawliczak Zbigniew
Published: November 2019

This article presents research on spacer knitted fabrics (3D) and typical upholstery materials, as vibro-insulation inserts that can be used in workplace seating. The tests were carried out on a specially constructed laboratory stand that allowed excitation of general vibrations in the low frequency range. Each sample was placed between the sensor and the vibration actuator and vibrated in the range from 1 to 100 Hz. Seven spacer knitted fabrics with different physical and mechanical parameters and three upholstery materials were tested to check their vibro-insulation properties. The presented study showed the importance and impact of technological parameters such as thickness, areal density, stiffness, and compression module on the damping properties of spacer knitted fabrics. The research showed that all materials are characterized by vibro-insulating properties in the low frequency range. To assess the damping quality, a dimensionless SEAT (Seat Effective Amplitude Transmissibility) index was proposed, defined as the ratio of the weighted vibration acceleration determined at the station (without damping inserts) to the weighted vibration acceleration determined at the station with the use of knitted damping inserts. The work also carried out a comparative analysis of the SEAT coefficient with the physico-mechanical parameters of the studied materials, with the use of the Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient. That coefficient is used to describe the correlation of two factors characterizing the tested samples, which may influence the SEAT attenuation coefficient, e.g., surface mass on attenuation. The best and optimal vibro-insulation properties in the low frequency vibration range (f1 = 10 Hz and f2 = 40 Hz) characterized by a high protection factor (SEAT >1.5) was for the prototype of spacer knitted fabric coded W5. The thickness of W5 spacer fabric is half the size of reference foam material coded F1. The tests may have a practical application in promoting distance fabrics as a material that absorbs adverse vibrations to protect the human body.
Troubling the Anthropocene: Donna Haraway, Science Fiction, and Arts of Un/Naming
Authors: Gough Noel , Adsit-Morris Chessa
Published: November 2019

This article takes Donna Haraway’s Staying With the Trouble: Making Kin in the Chthulucene as a point of departure for troubling the largely uncontested acceptance of the Anthropocene as a matter of scientific “fact.” Our approach is informed by our methodological commitments to understanding writing as a mode of inquiry and our preference for diffraction (rather than reflection) in conceptualizing practices of reading and critique. The article is therefore organized around questions that Haraway’s text provokes, and our responses to them. We draw on various sources, including selected science fiction (SF) texts, to trouble practices of naming geological epochs and also to trouble some of the assumptions that Haraway makes in offering “Chthulucene” as an alternative name for our present epoch.
Understanding Entangled Relationships Between Un/Interrogated Privileges: Tracing Research Pathways With Contemplative Art-Making, Duoethnography, and Pecha Kucha
Authors: Bhattacharya Kakali
Published: November 2019

I explore how using a bag portrait activity, duoethnography, and a mixed-medium layering method of arts-informed analysis in a doctoral-level qualitative research class enhanced students’ understanding of their un/interrogated privileges, relationship between Self and Other, and the role of creativity in inquiry. Using pecha kucha as a medium and a message allowed me to integrate visual information and de/colonial and anti-oppressionist narratives. Using creativity as a mode of instructional activity, class project, way of data collection, analysis, and representation lend to aspects of performative selves and our role as agentic, ethical, compassionate qualitative researchers.
“It’d Just Be Banter”: Sectarianism in a Northern Irish Rugby Club
Authors: Kavanagh Thomas
Published: November 2019

Nearly two decades after the Good Friday Agreement, sectarianism still functions to structure much of the Northern Irish society. While this is often considered in terms of high-profile cases of sectarian violence, most sectarian behavior occurs in everyday practices. This article explores how sectarianism is expressed and understood within the context of a Northern Irish rugby club. I conducted a season-long ethnography using participant observation, focus group discussions, and semistructured interviews to gain an understanding of the particular context which framed the sectarian discourses at the club. Rather than a purely oppressive model, Ballycross RFC showcased how the sectarian climate of the Northern Irish society can be used and experienced in a multitude of ways.
Functional Regulation of Ginsenosides on Myeloid Immunosuppressive Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Yanfei , Qiu Zhidong , Qiu Ye , Su Ting , Qu Peng , Jia Ailing
Published: November 2019

Ginsenosides, the key components isolated from ginseng, have been extensively studied in antitumor treatment. Numerous studies have shown that ginsenosides have direct function in tumor cells through the induction of cancer cell apoptosis and the inhibition of cancer cell growth and enhance the antitumor immunity through the activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and natural killer cells. However, little is known about the function of ginsenosides on myeloid immunosuppressive cells including dendritic cells in tumor, tumor-associated macrophages, and myeloid-derived suppressor cells in the tumor microenvironments. Those myeloid immunosuppressive cells play important roles in promoting tumor angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. In the review, we summarize the regulatory functions of ginsenosides on myeloid immunosuppressive cells in tumor microenvironment, providing the novel therapeutic methods for clinical cancer treatment.
Hashtag Syllabus
Authors: Lyons Alyssa P.
Published: November 2019

The hashtag syllabus is a crowd-sourced body of work that can, in some cases, challenge the knowledge construction of the academy. Hashtag syllabi have the opportunity to reshape how knowledge is produced, whose knowledge is affirmed, and what knowledge people are exposed to.
Love Me Tinder, Love Me Sweet
Authors: Lundquist Jennifer Hickes , Curington Celeste Vaughan
Published: November 2019

Are “hook up” apps leading to a new kind of dating culture on college campuses? Dating apps like Tinder and Bumble are have a different impact on the lives of college students versus older daters. Many students are using these apps to circumvent the romantic gatekeeping that campus party culture has long dominated.
Why You Can’t Find That Nice Bottle of South African Wine
Authors: Finlay William , Pandian Kavi
Published: November 2019

South African wine producers are more successful in the American market when they partner with importers that know little about their wines. Ignorance is better than expertise, and leads to a handful of wineries being very successful in the market, while most barely make a splash.
Use of Occupation-Based Measures in LSVT BIG Research: A Case Study
Authors: Henderson Whitney , Boone Anna E. , Heady Joy , Nettleton Micaela , Wilhelm Taylor , Bliss Jaquelyn
Published: November 2019

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that results in a variety of motor and nonmotor symptoms that impact occupational performance. To our knowledge, no study has investigated the effect of LSVT BIG using occupational performance outcome measures. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of LSVT BIG on occupational performance with an individual with PD. The participant, a 73-year-old retired female with mild PD, completed the LSVT BIG program. Researchers measured changes in occupational performance using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and the Performance Assessment of Self-Care Skills (PASS). Results indicated improved client perceptions of occupational performance and satisfaction on the COPM and improved independence and adequacy on the PASS. Despite the positive findings of this study that support the use occupational performance measures to evaluate change within LSVT BIG literature, future research should be conducted to determine causality of identified occupational performance improvements and time course of improvements.
Temperature adjusting performance of thermoregulated woven fabric finished with phase-change microcapsule in low-temperature environment
Authors: Chen Xu , Wu Bingyang , Fan Ying , Duan Xingyuan , Yang Musheng
Published: November 2019

This study deals with the temperature adjusting performance of thermoregulated woven fabric based on phase-change microcapsules in low-temperature environment. Phase-change microcapsules containing n-octadecane (MicroC18) with melamine–urea–formaldehyde as shell were synthesized by an in situ polymerization using styrene maleic anhydride copolymer as emulsifying agent. Surface morphology, chemical structure, and thermal properties of MicroC18 were, respectively, characterized using field emission scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermal gravimetric analysis. The results indicate that a series of microcapsules with spherical shapes were fabricated with about 20.6-μm weight-average particle size. Latent heat is about 188.2 J/g and encapsulation efficiency of n-octadecane (C18) is 85.2%. Phase-change microcapsule composite fabric was prepared through foaming method with plain weave, twill weave, and satin weave as substrates. Thermal insulation property, low-temperature resistance, air permeability, and mechanical property of the finished fabric were investigated. The results show that the cooling rate of finished fabric is significantly slower, and low-temperature resistance time increases. Finished satin fabric has the best thermal resistance performance. The air permeability of finished fabrics is lightly reduced, and final elongation in warp and weft are increased by 16.5% and 15.2%, respectively.
Survival prediction in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease following a pulmonary rehabilitation programme in Hong Kong
Authors: Lau Cherry WL , Mok Thomas , Ko William WN , Ng Bobby HP , Chan Irene HL , Tsui Teresa TS , Ling SO , Kwan HY , Poon YN , Yim CW , Yau PY
Published: November 2019

Background and objective

Pulmonary rehabilitation programme (PRP) is an important component in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, to date so far there has been limited literature on the survival outcomes of patients with COPD after a PRP in Hong Kong. This study aimed to investigate the outcomes of a pulmonary rehabilitation programme on the survival rates of a retrospective cohort of patients with COPD.

Methods

This was a retrospective study that included subjects who participated in the PRP in a rehabilitation hospital from the year 2003 to 2015. A total of 431 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were identified from the electronic record system of the hospital. The dataset were split into two age groups for reporting and analysis using the mean age of 72 as the cut-off. Their median survival times were calculated using Kaplan–Meier analysis. Cox-proportional regression model was used to explore factors that predicted better survival. The most significant predictors were used as strata, and their respective effects on survival functions were analysed with Kaplan–Meier analysis again.

Results

The overall median survival of the cohort was 4.3 years. The median survival times of the younger patient group (aged <72) and the older patient group (aged ≥72) were 5.3 and 3.6 years, respectively. For the patients, aged <72 years old, Moser’s Activities of Daily Living class and the pulmonary rehabilitation programme completion rate were the most significant survival predictors. For the patients aged ≥72 years old, Monitored Functional Task Evaluation score was the most significant survival predictor.

Conclusion

Moser’s Activities of Daily Living class ≥2 and non-completion of PRP for younger group, low exercise capacity with Monitored Functional Task Evaluation score <17 for older group were identified as significant predictors of poor survival. The findings of this study helped identifying those patients with COPD who have the needs to be more intensively treated and closely monitored.
Role of bone morphogenetic protein-2/4 in astrocyte activation in neuropathic pain
Authors: Yang Lin , Liu Shuxin , Wang Yaping
Published: November 2019

Background

Bone morphogenetic protein-2/4 (BMP2/4) has been recognized as promoters of astrocyte activity. Substantial evidence suggests that BMP2/4 may be elevated and plays a critical role in astrocyte activation upon spinal cord injury. Although neuropathic pain is similarly associated with astrocyte activation, the participation of BMP2/4 in this regard still remains unclear.

Methods

A rat model of neuropathic pain achieved by spinal nerve ligation at L5 was used to evaluate the expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein and BMP2/4 in the spinal cord in days 1, 4, 7, 10, and 14. Next, normal rats received intrathecal exogenous BMP2/4 and the antagonist Noggin to assess the effect of BMP2/4 on astrocyte activation. In both experiments, von Frey filaments were used to evaluate the changes in paw withdrawal threshold. In addition, Western blotting and immunofluorescence were performed to assess the expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein, BMP2/4, p-Smad 1/5/8, and phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (p-STAT3) in the spinal cord.

Results

Firstly, spinal nerve ligation caused a significant increase in the expression of BMP4, while BMP2 levels remained unchanged. Secondly, exogenous BMP4 but not BMP2 induced a significant decrease in paw withdrawal threshold, along with the upregulation of glial fibrillary acidic protein. Moreover, exogenous BMP4 stimulated both p-Smad 1/5/8 and p-STAT3, while BMP2 only upregulated p-Smad 1/5/8. Finally, exogenous Noggin alleviated the decrease in paw withdrawal threshold induced by BMP4 and reduced astrocyte activation, as well as p-STAT3 upregulation.

Conclusions

Our results indicate only BMP4—and not BMP2—intervened in allodynia in rats by eliciting glial activation probably through both p-Smad 1/5/8 and p-STAT3 signaling.
Synthesis and properties of bay unilaterally extended and mono-substituted perylene diimides
Authors: Zhang Fengxia , Huang Xianqiang , Wei Xiaofeng , Ren Huixue , Jiang Tianyi , Li Xuemei , Wu Junsen , Ma Yongshan
Published: November 2019

The synthesis of two sulfur-decorated perylene diimides, the five-membered S-heterocyclic annulated perylene diimide (1) and 1-propanethiol- N,N′-dicyclohexylperylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic diimide (2), and a novel sulfoxide-containing perylene diimide, 1-propyl sulfoxide- N,N′-dicyclohexylperylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic diimide (3), are reported. The photophysical, electrochemical, aggregation, and thermal properties of these compounds are investigated by ultraviolet visible absorption, fluorescence, cyclic voltammetric, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis techniques. The geometries of the compounds are optimized at the 6-31G* level of theory using density functional theory, and their potentials are correlated with molecular orbitals. The prepared perylene diimide derivatives exhibit narrow the highest occupied molecular orbitals and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals band gaps, and they have quite different absorptions and emissions in dichloromethane solutions, which are in agreement with the density functional theory–calculated results.
Identification of the key differentially expressed genes and pathways involved in neutrophilia
Authors: He Chengcheng , Zhang Yingchun , Luo Hongwei , Luo Bo , He Yancheng , Jiang Nan , Liang Yu , Zeng Jingyuan , Luo Yujiao , Xian Yujun , Liu Jiajia , Zheng Xiaoli
Published: November 2019

Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) are the most important determinants in the acute inflammatory response. Pathologically increased numbers of PMNs in the circulation or specific tissues (or both) lead to neutrophilia. However, the genes expressed and pathways involved in neutrophilia have yet to be elucidated. By analysis of three public microarray datasets related to neutrophilia (GSE64457, GSE54644, and GSE94923) and evaluation by gene ontology, pathway enrichment, protein–protein interaction networks, and hub genes analysis using multiple methods (DAVID, PATHER, Reactome, STRING, Reactome FI Plugin, and CytoHubba in Cytoscape), we identified the commonly up-regulated and down-regulated different expressed genes. We also discovered that multiple signaling pathways (IL-mediated, LPS-mediated, TNF-α, TLR cascades, MAPK, and PI3K-Akt) were involved in PMN regulation. Our findings suggest that the commonly expressed genes involved in regulation of multiple pathways were the underlying molecular mechanisms in the development of inflammatory, autoimmune, and hematologic diseases that share the common phenotypic characteristics of increased numbers of PMNs. Taken together, these data suggest that these genes are involved in the regulation of neutrophilia and that the corresponding gene products could serve as potential biomarkers and/or therapeutic targets for neutrophilia.
Adult hip pain
Authors: Jain Aman , Clamp Katie
Published: November 2019

Hip pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal presentations in general practice. There are multiples causes of hip pain, ranging from acute to chronic and traumatic to atraumatic. In general practice, it is important to identify the cause of hip pain, as management strategies vary depending on pathology. Some diagnoses need urgent referral to secondary care, whereas others can be managed in primary care. According to the RCGP, an estimated 1-in-5 consultations are for musculoskeletal conditions, so a good knowledge of management is important. In this article, we will discuss the anatomy of the hip, the most common causes of hip pain and their management.
KRAS and ERBB-family genetic alterations affect response to PD-1 inhibitors in metastatic nonsquamous NSCLC
Authors: Cinausero Marika , Laprovitera Noemi , Maglio Giovanna De , Gerratana Lorenzo , Riefolo Mattia , Macerelli Marianna , Fiorentino Michelangelo , Porcellini Elisa , Buoro Vanessa , Gelsomino Francesco , Squadrilli Anna , Fasola Gianpiero , Negrini Massimo , Tiseo Marcello , Ferracin Manuela , Ardizzoni Andrea
Published: November 2019

Background:

Programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) and PD-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitors represent novel therapeutic options for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, approximately 50% of patients do not benefit from therapy and experience rapid disease progression. PD-L1 expression is the only approved biomarker of benefit to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. However, its weakness has been evidenced in many studies. More recently, tumor mutational burden (TMB) has proved to be a suitable biomarker, but its calculation is difficult to obtain for all patients.

Methods:

We tested specific NSCLC genetic alterations as potential immunotherapy biomarkers. Tumor DNA was obtained from advanced NSCLC patients treated with anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody nivolumab ( n = 44) or pembrolizumab ( n = 3). The mutational status of 22 genes was assessed by targeted next-generation sequencing and the association with survival was tested in uni- and multivariate models. The association between gene mutations and clinical benefit was also investigated.

Results:

The most frequently mutated genes were TP53 (49%), KRAS (43%), ERBB2 (13%), SMAD4 (13%), DDR2 (13%), STK11 (9%), ERBB4 (6%), EGFR (6%), BRAF (6%), and MET (6%). We confirmed that KRASmut patients have a better response to PD-1 inhibitors, showing a longer progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) than KRASwt patients. In addition, we observed that patients with ERBB-family mutations, including EGFR, ERBB2, and ERBB4 all failed to respond to PD-1 antibodies, independently of KRAS status.

Conclusions:

This study suggests that the analysis of KRAS and ERBB-family gene mutational status is valuable when assessing the clinical practice for the selection of NSCLC patients to treat with PD-1 inhibitors.
Using State Data to Conduct Research in the Field of Gifted Education
Authors: Hodges Jaret
Published: November 2019

State databases offer researchers the opportunity to conduct research using data collected by states. These databases contain financial, demographic, and accountability data. Accessing and acquiring data from these repositories, though, can offer challenges to scholars interested in conducting research. This brief describes the type of data collected by states, how to acquire this data, and includes potential limitations when using this data. Special consideration is given to concerns regarding acquiring state information on smaller populations of students, especially students identified as gifted and talented.
Fasting during Ramadan in people with chronic kidney disease: a review of the literature
Authors: Ahmad Shahzaib , Chowdhury Tahseen A.
Published: November 2019

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common among Muslim patients, and many such patients are keen to fast during the month of Ramadan. Fasting for prolonged periods may be deleterious for patients with CKD, but the changing season of fasting means that the duration of fast is very variable between geographical locations. There is, furthermore, a paucity of evidence to guide patients and clinicians in management of fasting in people with CKD. In this article, we aim to review the available evidence for patients with CKD and fasting, including haemodialysis and renal transplantation. We suggest that all patients with CKD should be deemed high risk or very high risk for fasting. We conclude, however, that patients with stable mild/moderate CKD (stage 1–3) may be able to fast providing they are carefully monitored and counselled. We also suggest that patients with stable renal transplants may also be able to fast, providing they are monitored carefully by their transplant team. Patients on haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis should not be encouraged to fast, but if they do so, they will need careful weekly monitoring. There is an urgent need for high-quality data for patients with CKD who plan to fast over Ramadan, to enable more guidance to be developed for this vulnerable group of patients.
Female Transnational Entrepreneurs (FTEs): A Case Study of Korean American Female Entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley
Authors: Lee June Y. , Lee Jane Yeonjae
Published: November 2019

Increasingly, studies of entrepreneurship and migration have examined the role of immigrant entrepreneurs in revitalising and diversifying the economy of the host society. Further, recent transnational skilled entrepreneurs have been understood as being much more mobile in building international networks and collaborations between their home and host societies. These studies have tended to focus on the technically oriented entrepreneurs and to produce a single grand narrative about a particular migrant group that transfers knowledge and becomes a technical pioneer in their home society. This article scrutinises a group of first-generation Korean American female transnational entrepreneurs (FTEs) living in Silicon Valley and builds a nuanced understanding about the diversity and complexity of being transnational entrepreneurs. Through a multi-layered qualitative approach, the study illustrates that three major mechanisms are at play: 1) the ecosystem of Silicon Valley; 2) the dynamics of gender and ethnicity; and 3) the adoption to live in a transnational social field. These mechanisms shape the motivations, experiences, and performances of Korean American FTEs. This article reveals the contesting ways in which these three mechanisms work simultaneously with each other.
The re-emergence of educational inequality during a period of reforms: A study of Swedish school leavers 1991–2012
Authors: Andersson Eva K , Hennerdal Pontus , Malmberg Bo
Published: November 2019

Against the background of a liberalization of Swedish compulsory education, this paper analyses post-1991 shifts in the way compulsory education performance in Sweden has been shaped by parental background, residential context and school context. We can document increasing school and residential segregation of foreign background students and, after 2008, increasing segregation by income, employment status and social allowance reception. Over time, educational performance has become increasingly linked to family, neighbourhood and school context. The greatest change has been for parental background, but the importance of school context and neighbourhood context has also increased. A noteworthy finding is that residential context consistently has a stronger effect on student performance than school context. Student grades were found to be most strongly influenced by the closest (12 or 25) residential peers of the school leavers as compared to larger peer groups. The increase in the influence of family, neighbourhood and residential context has been accompanied by a dramatic increase in the between-school variation (intra-class correlation) in student performance, but it was not until after 2005 that this increased variability became clearly linked to the social composition of the schools. This study’s results suggest that the restructuring of Swedish compulsory education has had consequences for equality, possibly because disadvantaged social groups have not been as able as advantaged groups to navigate and benefit from the educational landscape created by the school reforms.
Numerical analysis of the calendering process by using Giesekus fluid model
Authors: Javed Muhammad Asif , Ali Nasir , Arshad Sabeen
Published: November 2019

A numerical study of the calendering process is presented. The material to be calendered is modeled by using Giesekus constitutive equation. The flow equations are first presented in dimensionless forms and then simplified by incorporating the lubrication approximation theory. The resulting equations are analytically solved for the stream function. The pressure gradient, pressure, and other engineering parameters related to the calendering process, such as roll-separating force, power function, and entering sheet thickness, are numerically calculated by using Runge–Kutta algorithm. The influence of the Giesekus parameter and the Deborah number on the velocity profile, pressure gradient, pressure, power function, roll-separating force, and exiting sheet thickness are discussed in detail with the help of various graphs. The present analysis indicates that the pressure in the nip region decreases with increasing Giesekus parameter and Deborah number. The power function and the roll-separating force exhibit decreasing trends with increasing Deborah number. The exiting sheet thickness decreases up to a certain entering sheet thickness, as compared to the Newtonian case. Beyond this entering sheet thickness, the exiting sheet thickness increases with increasing entering sheet thickness.
The Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anemia
Authors: COLEMAN DANIEL H. , STEVENS ALEXANDER R. , FINCH CLEMENT A.
Published: November 2019

In the normal individual the amount of iron absorbed and lost from the body each day is exceedingly small. There are certain periods during life when body iron requirements are increased; the most important of these is infancy. Here, existing iron stores are rapidly depleted, and a deficient diet can soon produce iron deficiency. Once a full complement of body iron has been accrued, the adult is independent of iron intake and becomes iron deficient only through blood loss.

In the production of iron deficiency, iron stores are exhausted before anemia appears. If any question in diagnosis from usual laboratory tests exists, the direct. examination of marrow for hemosiderin will establish the diagnosis. It is of obvious importance to confirm the diagnosis by specific therapy and to determine the cause of the iron depletion.

Response to oral iron is highly predictable and failure of response usually in dictates a mistaken diagnosis. In a small but significant group of patients, either unable to take iron because of gastrointestinal symptoms, unable to absorb iron, or in need of iron reserves, parenteral administration of iron has distinct advantages. The saccharated oxide of iron is an effective preparation for this purpose.
Large-scale in vitro production of red blood cells from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Heshusius Steven , Heideveld Esther , Burger Patrick , Thiel-Valkhof Marijke , Sellink Erica , Varga Eszter , Ovchynnikova Elina , Visser Anna , Martens Joost H. A. , von Lindern Marieke , van den Akker Emile
Published: November 2019

Key Points

This article provides a defined GMP-grade medium and erythroid culture protocol, resulting in >90% enucleated RBC. This article provides a high-resolution database of RNA expression dynamics at daily intervals during terminal erythroid differentiation.
Application of a New Multiplexed Array for Rapid, Sensitive, Simultaneous and Quantitative Assessment of Spliced and Unspliced XBP1
Authors: Creedican Stuart , Talty Aaron , Fitzgerald Stephen P. , Samali Afshin , Richardson Ciarán , Gorman Adrienne M. , Martin Kenneth
Published: November 2019

Background

IRE1α-mediated unconventional splicing of XBP1 is emerging as a biomarker in several disease states and is indicative of activation of the unfolded protein response sensor IRE1. Splicing ofXBP1mRNA results in the translation of two distinct XBP1 protein isoforms (XBP1s and XBP1u) which, due to post-translational regulation, do not correlate with mRNA levels. As both XBP1 isoforms are implicated in pathogenic or disease progression mechanisms there is a need for a reliable, clinically applicable method to detect them.

Methods

A multiplexed isoform-specific XBP1 array utilising Biochip array technology (BAT™) was assessed for specificity and suitability when using cell protein lysates. The array was applied to RIPA protein lysates from several relevant pre-clinical models with an aim to quantify XBP1 isoforms in comparison with RT-PCR or immunoblot reference methods.

Results

A novel reliable, specific and sensitive XBP1 biochip was successfully utilised in pre-clinical research. Application of this biochip to detect XBP1 splicing at the protein level in relevant breast cancer models, under basal conditions as well as pharmacological inhibition and paclitaxel induction, confirmed the findings of previous studies. The biochip was also applied to non-adherent cells and used to quantify changes in the XBP1 isoforms upon activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome.

Conclusions

The XBP1 biochip enables isoform specific quantification of protein level changes upon activation and inhibition of IRE1α RNase activity, using a routine clinical methodology. As such it provides a research tool and potential clinical tool with a quantified, simultaneous, rapid output that is not available from any other published method.
Genome-wide investigation of the heat shock transcription factor (Hsf) gene family in Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum)
Authors: Liu Moyang , Huang Qin , Sun Wenjun , Ma Zhaotang , Huang Li , Wu Qi , Tang Zizhong , Bu Tongliang , Li Chenglei , Chen Hui
Published: November 2019

Background

Heat shock transcription factor (Hsfs) is widely found in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Hsfs can not only help organisms resist high temperature, but also participate in the regulation of plant growth and development (such as involved in the regulation of seed maturity and affects the root length of plants). The Hsf gene was first isolated from yeast and then gradually found in plants and sequenced, such as Arabidopsis thaliana, rice, maize. Tartary buckwheat is a rutin-rich crop, and its nutritional value and medicinal value are receiving more and more attention. However, there are few studies on the Hsf genes in Tartary buckwheat. With the whole genome sequence of Tartary buckwheat, we can effectively study the Hsf gene family in Tartary buckwheat.

Results

According to the study, 29 Hsf genes of Tartary buckwheat (FtHsf) were identified and renamed according to location of FtHsf genes on chromosome after removing a redundant gene. Therefore, only 29 FtHsf genes truly had the functional characteristics of the FtHsf family. The 29 FtHsf genes were located on 8 chromosomes of Tartary buckwheat, and we found gene duplication events in the FtHsf gene family, which may promote the expansion of the FtHsf gene family. Then, the motif compositions and the evolutionary relationship of FtHsf proteins and the gene structures, cis-acting elements in the promoter, synteny analysis of FtHsf genes were discussed in detail. What’s more, we found that the transcription levels of FtHsf in different tissues and fruit development stages were significantly different by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), implied that FtHsf may differ in function.

Conclusions

In this study, only 29 Hsf genes were identified in Tartary buckwheat. Meanwhile, we also classified the FtHsf genes, and studied their structure, evolutionary relationship and the expression pattern. This series of studies has certain reference value for the study of the specific functional characteristics of Tartary buckwheat Hsf genes and to improve the yield and quality of Tartary buckwheat in the future.
Transcriptional insights into key genes and pathways controlling muscle lipid metabolism in broiler chickens
Authors: Liu Lu , Liu Xiaojing , Cui Huanxian , Liu Ranran , Zhao Guiping , Wen Jie
Published: November 2019

Background

Intramuscular fat (IMF) is one of the most important factors positively associated with meat quality. Triglycerides (TGs), as the main component of IMF, play an essential role in muscle lipid metabolism. This transcriptome analysis of pectoralis muscle tissue aimed to identify functional genes and biological pathways likely contributing to the extreme differences in the TG content of broiler chickens.

Results

The study included Jingxing-Huang broilers that were significantly different in TG content (5.81 mg/g and 2.26 mg/g,p < 0.01) and deposition of cholesterol also showed the same trend. This RNA sequencing analysis was performed on pectoralis muscle samples from the higher TG content group (HTG) and the lower TG content group (LTG) chickens. A total of 1200 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between two groups, of which 59 DEGs were related to TG and steroid metabolism. The HTG chickens overexpressed numerous genes related to adipogenesis and lipogenesis in pectoralis muscle tissue, including the key genesADIPOQ,CD36,FABP4,FABP5, LPL,SCD,PLIN1,CIDECandPPARG, as well as genes related to steroid biosynthesis (DHCR24,LSS,MSMO1,NSDHLandCH25H). Additionally, key pathways related to lipid storage and metabolism (the steroid biosynthesis and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway) may be the key pathways regulating differential lipid deposition between HTG group and LTG group.

Conclusions

This study showed that increased TG deposition accompanying an increase in steroid synthesis in pectoralis muscle tissue. Our findings of changes in gene expression of steroid biosynthesis and PPAR signaling pathway in HTG and LTG chickens provide insight into genetic mechanisms involved in different lipid deposition patterns in pectoralis muscle tissue.
Ileal intubation is not associated with higher detection rate of right-sided conventional adenomas and serrated polyps compared to cecal intubation after adjustment for overall adenoma detection rate
Authors: Buerger Martin , Kasper Philipp , Allo Gabriel , Gillessen Johannes , Schramm Christoph
Published: November 2019

Background

High cecal intubation rate (CIR) is associated with significant improved adenoma detection rate (ADR), however, self-reported CIR may be overestimated and inadequate documentation of cecal intubation is associated with a lower polyp detection rate compared to clear documentation. We aimed to investigate if ileal intubation may be associated with higher detection rates (DR) for right-sided conventional adenomas (cAD) and serrated polyps (SP) compared to cecal intubation in a large screening colonoscopy cohort.

Material and methods

Retrospective analysis of individuals ≥50 years with average risk for colorectal cancer (CRC) who underwent screening colonoscopy between 01/01/2012 and 14/12/2016 at a tertiary academic hospital and six community-based private practices. Exclusion criteria were conditions with increased risk for CRC (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease, history of CRC, hereditary cancer syndromes), previous colonoscopy at the same institution, and incomplete procedures. Right-sided colon was defined as caecum and ascending colon.

Results

4.138 individuals were analysed (mean age 62 years, 52.1% female). DR for right-sided cADs and SPs were significantly higher after ileal compared to cecal intubation in univariate (12.5% vs. 6.8%, p < 0.001, and 6.3% vs. 3.3%, p < 0.001), but not in multivariate analysis (OR 1.025, 95%-CI 0.639–1.646, p = 0.918, and OR 0.937, 95%-CI 0.671–1.309, p = 0.704). DRs did not differ between ileal and cecal intubation for endoscopists with ADR ≥25 and < 25%, respectively. ADR ≥25% was significantly associated with ileal intubation (OR 21.862, 95%-CI 18.049–26.481, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Ileal intubation may not provide any benefit over cecal intubation concerning the detection of cADs and SPs in the right-sided colon.
A Danish version of the life-space assessment (LSA-DK) – translation, content validity and cultural adaptation using cognitive interviewing in older mobility limited adults
Authors: Pedersen Mette Merete , Kjær-Sørensen Pia , Midtgaard Julie , Brown Cynthia J. , Bodilsen Ann Christine
Published: November 2019

Background

Identification and prevention of mobility limitations in older adults is important to reduce adverse health outcomes. The Life-Space Assessment (LSA) provides a single measure of mobility including environmental and social resources of the older adult. Availability of the LSA for non-English speaking countries is still sparse. Therefore, we translated the LSA into Danish and performed a content validity analysis of the translation in older adults with mobility limitations.

Methods

After translation into Danish, the Danish version (LSA-DK) was content validated using cognitive interviewing in older mobility limited adults (+ 65) from an outpatient rehabilitation center (n = 12), medical wards at a university hospital (n = 11), and an assisted living facility (n = 7). The interviews were transcribed and analyzed according to the four stages of the Information Processing Model. Based on the analyses, recommendations for changes to the LSA-DK and to the manual were made and presented to the developers of the LSA.

Results

Consensus was reached on the LSA-DK. Thirty cognitive interviews were carried out. A wide range of sources of error primarily related to the comprehension, memory and decision process were identified. The frequency and type of error sources were most prevalent among assisted living facility informants and included difficulties in defining the geographical extension of neighborhood, town and outside town. The results led to adaptations to the questionnaire and manual to support implementation of the LSA-DK in clinical practice.

Conclusions

The Life-Space Assessment was translated into Danish and content validated based on cognitive interviews. Adaptations were made to support that the Danish version can be implemented in clinical practice and used in the assessment of mobility in older Danish adults.
Differences between diabetic and non-diabetic patients with community-acquired pneumonia in primary care in Spain
Authors:   on behalf of NEUMOEXPERTOS group, Arias Fernández Loreto , Pardo Seco Jacobo , Cebey-López Miriam , Gil Prieto Ruth , Rivero-Calle Irene , Martinon-Torres Federico , Gil de Miguel Ángel , Martinón-Torres F. , Vargas D. , Mascarós E. , Redondo E. , Díaz-Maroto J. L. , Linares-Rufo M. , Gil A. , Molina J. , Ocaña D. , Rivero-Calle I.
Published: November 2019

Background

Diabetes is one of the underlying risk factors for developing community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). The high prevalence of diabetes among population and the rising incidence of this illness, converts it as an important disease to better control and manage, to prevent its secondary consequences as CAP.

The objective of this research is to describe the characteristics of the patients with diabetes and the differences with the no diabetes who have had an episode of CAP in the context of the primary care field.

Methods

A retrospective, observational study in adult patients (> 18 years-old) who suffer from CAP and attended at primary care in Spain between 2009 and 2013 was developed using the Computerized Database for Pharmacoepidemiological Studies in Primary Care (BIFAP). We carried out a descriptive analysis of the first episodes of CAP, in patients with or without diabetes as comorbidity. Other morbidity (CVA, Anaemia, Arthritis, Asthma, Heart disease, Dementia, Depression, Dysphagia, Multiple sclerosis, Epilepsy, COPD, Liver disease, Arthrosis, Parkinson’s disease, Kidney disease, HIV) and life-style factors were also included in the study.

Results

A total of 51,185 patients were included in the study as they suffer from the first episode of CAP. Of these, 8012 had diabetes as comorbidity. There were differences between sex and age in patients with diabetes. Patients without diabetes were younger, and had less comorbidities including those related to lifestyles such as smoking, alcoholism, social and dental problems than patients with diabetes.

Conclusions

Patients who developed an episode of CAP with diabetes have more risk factors which could be reduced with an appropriate intervention, including vaccination to prevent successive CAP episodes and hospitalization.

The burden of associated factors in these patients can produce an accumulation of risk. Health care professional should know this for treating and control these patients in order to avoid complications. Diabetes and those other risk factors associated could be reduced with an appropriate intervention, including vaccination to prevent the first and successive CAP episodes and the subsequent hospitalization in severe cases.