bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On sextic integral bases using relative quadratic extention
Authors: Sahmoudi Mohammed , Abderazak Soullami
Published: March 2019

Let $K=\mathbb{Q}(\theta)$ be a cubic number filed and $P(X)=X^3-aX-b$ ($a,b$ in $\ZZ$), the monic irreducible polynomial of $\theta$. In this paper we give a sufficient conditions on $a$,$b$ which ensure that $\theta$ is a power basis generator, also we give conditions on relative quadratic extension to be monogenic. As a consequence of this theoretical result we can reach an integral basis of some sextic fields which Neither algebraically split nor arithmetically split.
Primary Hepatic Neuroendocrine Carcinoma Treated with Doxorubicin and Cyclophosphamide in a Dog
Authors: Morgan Elizabeth , O’Connell Kathleen , Thomson Maurine , Boyd Susan , Sandy Jeanine
Published: March 2019

A 7 yr, 6 mo old male neutered Australian cattle dog cross presented to a referral hospital with a large abdominal mass. An abdominal ultrasound revealed multifocal lesions throughout the liver, which were suspicious for intrahepatic metastasis, with no evidence of extrahepatic metastatic disease. Cytology indicated neoplasia of epithelial origin, with neuroendocrine neoplasia the primary suspicion. The patient was started on a maximally tolerated chemotherapy protocol of doxorubicin and metronomic cyclophosphamide. Stable disease was found on repeat abdominal ultrasounds, and the patient tolerated the protocol well. On completion of five doxorubicin doses, the dog was continued on metronomic cyclophosphamide and meloxicam. Progressive hepatic disease was found at 10 mo. The patient was euthanized 15.5 mo (465 days) after commencing treatment. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry (synaptophysin) performed on liver collected postmortem indicated (primary) hepatic neuroendocrine carcinoma. Primary hepatic neuroendocrine carcinomas are rare in dogs, and there is no standard of care for treatment. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of a primary hepatic neuroendocrine carcinoma treated with high-dose doxorubicin and metronomic cyclophosphamide.
Corruption, Investment and Economic Growth in WAEMU Countries
Authors: Tidiane Ndiaye Cheikh
Published: March 2019

The purpose of this paper is to study the relationships between corruption, public investment and economic growth in WAEMU (West Africa Economic and Monetary Union) countries during the period 2001-2014. This, by using a panel VAR (Vector Auto Regressive) model. The results stemming from this empirical study stipulate a significant link between corruption and investment, economic growth and investment, corruption and economic growth. These results also show that corruption reduces the ratio of public investment and has a negative impact on economic growth among WAEMU countries. It has more of a specific effect on investment and affects negatively through this mean countries of the area.
Sleep quality and fatigue levels of mothers in the period of transition to additional food
Authors: Çelık Eren D. , Ilknur Aydin Avci
Published: March 2019

Purpose: To determine the sleep quality and fatigue levels of mothers in the period of transition additional food. Materials and methods: It was a relation seeking descriptive study which contained 377 mothers who had sixth month babies. The datas of the study was collected in Samsun between June and December 2015 with "Personal Information Form", "Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Questionnaire” and "Piper Fatigue Scale”. The statistical analysis of the data was made with using percentages, means, t test, ANOVA, Kruskal Wallis, Man Whitney U and correlation test. Results: It was found that the average age of mothers was 28.1±5.2 years, 44.8% of them high school graduated, 25.2% of them working outside, 78.8% of them lived in a nuclear family. It was determined 69.6% of the babies passed the additional food before sixth month, and 31.5% of them passed with baby formula. It was appointed that the 65.3% of mothers in period of transition additional food experienced sleep problems and 66.6% of them experienced fatigue. It was found a positive weak and significant correlation between the mothers Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Questionnaire scores and and Piper Fatigue Scale scores (p<0.05). Conclusion: It was seen that in the period of transition additional food, the mothers experience problems about the passing time, first foods and feeding method and this situation causes insomnia and fatigue. According to the results it could be recommended to development of training programs for the improvement of mothers' sleep quality and fatigue levels.
Drug use, smoking, alcohol abuse and assertiveness of medical students from Poland and Belarus
Authors: Kułak-Bejda A. , Waszkiewicz N , Shpakau A , Bejda G. , Dróżdż-Kubicka E.
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Human health is largely determined by factors such as human behavior and style of life.
Purpose: To evaluate selected patterns of behavior of medical students, such as smoking, alcohol abuse, drug use, and their assertiveness.
Materials and methods: The study included 338 students from Bialystok, Poland, and 339 from Grodno, Belarus. The original questionnaire, Fasterström's Nicotine Addiction Test, Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test, Drug Use Problem Test, and Assertiveness Test according to Grębski were all used.
Results: In both groups, the level of cigarette dependence was low, with 10% of the students from Poland and 15% from Belarus being habitual cigarette smokers. No significant differences were found in the frequency of alcohol consumption between Polish (57%) and Belarusian (52%) students. Of the respondents, 3.3% from Poland and 1.5% from Belarus met the criteria of alcohol dependence according to the MAST test. There were no statistically significant differences in the frequency of drug use between the Polish (1.5%) and Belarusian (1.8%) students. The average level of assertiveness was 16.2 for Polish students and 15.4 for Belarusian students, which was a significant difference.
Conclusions: These results indicate similar percentages of Polish and Belarusian students smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, and use drugs. In addition, Polish students were more assertive than Belarusian students.
Clinicopathological significance of Epo, EpoR, Ki-67 and Bax expression in colorectal cancer
Authors: Lopmerta K. , Grudzinska M. , Jakubowska K. , Samocik P. , Kozlowski L. , Fudala A. , Wincewicz A. , Koda M.
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Expression of Epo, a glycoprotein secreted by the fetal liver and the adult kidney in response to cellular hypoxia and its receptor have been described in human solid tumors, such as colon and breast cancer. Purpose: Since activation of Epo-EpoR signaling pathway in erythroid progenitor and precursor cells leads to promotion of proliferation and differentiation or prevention of programmed cell death through Bcl-xl and Bcl-2 it was of interest to investigate expression of Epo, EpoR, apoptosis regulator – Bax and marker of proliferating cells - Ki-67 and assess correlation between them, with regard to clinicopathological variables of colorectal cancer. Materials and methods: The correlations between expression of Epo, EpoR, Bax and Ki-67 in colorectal cancer were analyzed in regard to patient age, sex, primary localization, histopathological type, grading, staging and lymph node invasion. Statistical analyses were performed by using the Spearman rank correlation test applying a significance level of p<0,05. Results: Correlation between Bax and EpoR is positive and statistically significant at all groups of patients except group pT1+pT2. Positive correlation between Bax and Epo is statistically significant at following groups of patients: all patients, age  60, age >60, male, female , primary localization in rectum, primary localization in colon, adenocarcinoma, G2, G3. Statistical analysis revealed no significant correlations between expression of neither Ki-67 with Epo nor Ki-67 with EpoR in all groups of patients. Conclusions: Epo seems to be a pleiotropic cytokine, which can exert its biological effect on several cell types, including neoplastic cells. The effect of Epo-EpoR signaling can differ in various cells and conditions.
Tumor budding as a new histological parameter in the metastasis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Ustymowicz W.
Published: March 2019

Introduction:The presence of tumor budding, i.e.,single cancer cells or a nest of poorly differentiated cells at the front of tumor invasion appears to be a new histopathological indicator of increased aggressiveness of colorectal carcinoma. Purpose: The aim of this work was a retrospective evaluation of the invasion front (tumorbudding, vascular invasion,and lymphocytic infiltration) in postoperative biopsies of patients with colorectal carcinoma and analysis of the 5-year survival. Materialsand methods:The study was based on the material received after surgical treatment of 164 patients with colon cancer. Tissue was obtained directly following tumor resection, fixed in 10% formaldehyde and embedded in paraffin blocks using a routine method by melting with paraffin at a temperature of 56º C. These samples were then routinely stained with haematoxylin and eosin and underwent a histopathological evaluation, with particular attention being paid to the invasion front of the tumor. The immunohistochemical expression of cytokeratin 20 was also evaluated using anti-human CK20 monoclonal antibody (clone Ks.20.8, Dako, Poland). Results: Tumor budding was found in 124 out of 164 patients. Statistical analysis showed a correlation between the presence of tumor budding TB and depth of invasion (pT), lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, lymphocytic infiltration,and vascular invasion. The cumulative five-year survival correlated with the lack of tumor budding and vascular invasion, as well as a decrease in lymphocyticinfiltration.
The oncoprotein HBXIP – its functions and roles in oncogenesis
Authors: Grudzinska M. , Lomperta K. , Jakubowska K. , Samocik P. , Jarząbek K. , Kanczuga-Koda L. , Wincewicz A. , Koda M.
Published: March 2019

Nowadays, Hepatitis B X interacting protein (HBXIP) is an object of scientists’ interest worldwide. It is a protein with significant involvement in the development of malignant tumors like breast or ovarian cancer. One of the most important functions of HBXIP is the regulation of cell proliferation, which is related to the progression of a cell cycle. Many studies provide the growing number of evidence that HBXIP plays various important roles, including the regulation of a cell cycle through complexes with survivin, belonging to the inhibitors of apoptosis and interactions with transcriptional factors like STAT4, SP1, TFIID or E2F1. It also has the influence on the promotion of tumor angiogenesis thanks to the association with VEGF and FGF8. Another important role of HBXIP is a reprogramming of glucose metabolism to conditions favorable to growing cancerous cells due to regulating the activation of SCO2 and PDHA1. Furthermore, it impacts on the complement-dependent cytotoxicity, also, HBXIP affects on lipid metabolism through disturbing of metabolic pathways of FAS. According to recent studies, HBXIP can be used as a prognostic biomarker in many tumors, including cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma thanks to the high expression of this protein noted exclusively in these tumor tissues. What is even more interesting, it significantly correlates with clinical attributes like metastasis to lymph nodes or grading and in some cases can potentially be used as the indicator of prognosis of treatment effectiveness. The paper is review through main functions of HBXIP and its possible applications.
Pseudohyperkalemia: in vitro phenomenon or misdiagnosis. A case report
Authors: Struniawski K. , Pogorzelski S. , Wróblewski D. , Kuźma Ł. , Kobus G. , Dobrzycki S.
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Hyperkalemia is a common electrolyte disturbance that occurs within many patients. The more often prevalence of cardiovascular or renal diseases is, the more frequent medical issue hyperkalemia will be. An increasing quantity of entities requires taking medications that affect electrolyte hemostasis. Therefore, reasons for hyperkalemia should be deeply reflected. One of them is pseudohyperkalemia. Purpose: In this study diagnostics and treatment of hypokalemia were presented based on the case report of a 56-year-old man. Case presentation: A 56-year-old man was admitted to the Department of Invasive Cardiology of Medical Hospital of Białystok for complaints of strong chest pain associated with palpitations, cold sweats, feelings of general weakness and anxiety. The patient had no medical history of chronic diseases and neglected to take any medications at length. The laboratory tests performed at admission showed an increased serum concentration of potassium. Through the whole hospitalization, many medications were implicated to overcome hyperkalemia (diuretics, calcium resonium, inhalation with beta2-adrenergic agonists, intravenous infusion of glucose with insulin) with no effect. Hormone test was performed, the results excluded Addison’s or pituitary disease. Differential diagnosis with arterial blood draw showed normal potassium serum concentration. Conclusions: Hyperkalemia is encountered in a broad spectrum of patients. The severely elevated level of potassium could lead to life-threating conditions. Therefore, proper diagnosis making process is a matter of great importance. As clinicians, we need to base not only on laboratory but also examine the whole picture of the patient. Misdiagnosing pseudohyperkalemia might result in unnecessary medical management.
Yoğun Bakım Ünitesinde Yatan Obstetrik ve Obstetrik Olmayan Hastaların Maliyet ve Sağkalım Analizlerinin Karşılaştırılması
Authors: EREL Mehmet , GÜZEL Abdulmenap , ÇELİK Feyzi , YILDIRIM Zeynep Baysal , KAVAK Gönül Ölmez
Published: March 2019

Amaç: Gebeliğe bağlı gelişen komplikasyonlar yoğun bakım

gerektiren önemli sağlık sorunlarıdır. Obstetrik hastaların gebeliğe bağlı

spesifik hastalıklarının tanısı, tedavisi ve seçilmiş terapötik müdahaleleri

non-obstetrik hastalardan daha farklıdır. Amacımız obstetrik ve non-obstetrik

hastaların mortalite, morbidite ve maliyet analizlerini karşılaştırmaktır.

Yöntemler: Bu çalışma Yerel Klinik Araştırmalar Etik Kurulu

onayı alındıktan sonra Anesteziyoloji ve Reanimasyon Kliniğinde yapılmıştır. Reanimasyon

ünitesinde 01.01.2013 ile 31.12.2013 tarihleri arasında bir yıl boyunca

faturalandırılan tüm hizmetler ve bu süre içindeki belgelenmiş olan tüm gelir

ve giderler retrospektif olarak incelendi. Yoğun bakım ünitesinde yatan

obstetrik ve non-obstetrik hastaların ortalama yaşı, tanısı, hastanede toplam

yatış süreleri, mortalite ve maliyet analizleri detaylı olarak incelendi.

Araştırmada, maliyet ve giderlerin akışını belirlemek için mali, idari ve tıbbi

kayıtlardan yararlanıldı.

Bulgular: Yatırılan toplam 154 hastanın 31'i obstetrik,

123'ü non-obstetrikti. Obstetrik hastaların mortalite oranı non-obstetrik

hastalara göre daha düşük saptandı ancak istatistiksel olarak anlamlı değildi

(p>0,05). Non-obstetrik hastalar ile kıyaslandığında obstetrik hastalar daha

kısa yatış süresine ve daha düşük ortalama hasta başı maliyetlerine sahipti.

Sonuç: Maliyeti ne olursa olsun hala sosyal bir problem olan

anne ölümlerini azaltmak için obstetrik hastaların hızlı değerlendirip hemen

tedavi altına alınması gerektiği kanısındayız.
Presentación del número monográfico de la revista Aldaba dedicado a las jornadas de psicología
Authors: Ballesteros Jiménez Soledad
Published: March 2019

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Perspectivas medioambientales en Melilla
Authors: Cabo Hernández José Manuel
Published: March 2019

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Impacto de la Biotecnología en la sociedad. Presente y futuro
Authors: Espinosa Manuel
Published: March 2019

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Contribución para la comprensión del africanismo español
Authors: Laarbi Ali Mohamed
Published: March 2019

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La ciudadanía de la Unión Europea y sus derechos: un análisis crítico
Authors: Martinez Caballero Juan
Published: March 2019

Desde hace unas décadas, como consecuencia, fundamentalmente,del acusado déficit democrático de la Unión Europea,por las instituciones comunitarias se están adoptando medidas quepretender reducirlo y paliarlo. Entre dichas medidas se encuentranaquellas que pretender convertir a los ciudadanos de la Unión en laverdadera razón de ser de la misma, superando sus iniciales pretensionesexclusivamente económicas, ahondando en aspectos jurídicopolíticos,tales como la ciudadanía y sus derechos. No obstante, elalcance de estas medidas está siendo muy limitado pues tanto la regulaciónefectuada, como la realidad existente, pone de manifiestocomo la ciudadanía de la Unión Europea se sustenta en la nacionalidadde los Estados miembros, es decir, en normas de Derecho interno.Ello, unido a la preponderancia de los intereses económicossobre los aspectos políticos, hace que la construcción de una auténticaciudadanía europea, tal y como la entendemos desde el punto devista del Derecho interno, no se haya alcanzado todavía, aspecto quetiene su reflejo en el escaso alcance de los derechos que rodean a lamisma.For decades now, in consequence, fundamentally, ofthe pronounced democratic deficit of the European Union, measuresare being taken by the Community institutions that seek to reduceand alleviate it. Amongst these measures are those that seek to convertthe citizens of the Union into its real reason d’être, by overcomingthe initial exclusively financial claims, delving into political issues,such as citizenship and their rights. However, the significanceof these measures is being very limited, since both the regulationand the existing reality show how citizenship of the European Unionis based on the nationality of the Member States, that is, on rulesof domestic law. This fact, together with the preponderance of economicinterests over the political aspects, means that the constructionof a genuine European citizenship, as we understand it from thepoint of view of domestic law, has not yet been achieved, aspect thatis reflected in the scanty scope of the rights that surround it.
Reseña de: Yánez Vivero, F., Patrimonio inembargable, alimentos y fresh start, Marcial Pons, Madrid, 2017. 185 pp.
Authors: Bonini Roberta S.
Published: March 2019

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Effects of Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Marine Sediments from Niger Delta on the Growth of Microalga Phaeodactylum tricornutum
Authors: Uba Bright Obidinma
Published: March 2019

Aims: To determine effects of aromatic hydrocarbons and marine sediments from Niger Delta on the growth of microalga Phaeodactylum tricornutum.

Study Design: Fifteen treatments and the control were designed in triplicates in which long cells containing 25 mL of the algae-toxicant dilutions were supplemented with 0.0 mg /L, 1.0 mg /L, 1.8 mg /L, 3.2 mg /L, 5.6 mg /L, and 18.0 mg /L of xylene, anthracene and pyrene each; three sediments and potassium dichromate incubated for 3 days at 20 ± 2°C. The fifteen treatments and control (K2Cr2O7) designated as C0, C1, C2, C3, C4 and C5 were used to determine their median effective concentration (ErC50) on the growth of microalga Phaeodactylum tricornutum.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Uli Nigeria between February, 2018 and July, 2018.

Methodology: A laboratory scale study was carried on the sediment samples from the three studied areas using physiochemical analysis and marine microalga toxicity test.

Results: The findings revealed that the three sampling sites contain higher quantities of aromatic hydrocarbons, heavy metals and other physio-chemical parameters in the sediment samples than water samples. The K2Cr2O7had the highest ErC50 value of 08.07 ± 0.03 mg /L with CV and r2 values of 68.61% and 0.99 while pyrene in Nembe sediment had the least ErC50 value of 04.63 ± 0.01 mg /L with CV and r2 values of 78.27% and 0.98 with very strong significant positive linear relationship between algal number and sample concentrations (P = .05).

Conclusion: Thus, the toxicity results (> 1 mg /L <EC50 ≤ 10 mg /L) in this study are in line with other toxicity values for this type of toxicants, and are therefore considered to be scientifically relevant in ecotoxicological risk assessment of Niger Delta, Nigeria.
Molecular Characterization of Corchorus olitorius L. of Burkina Faso
Authors: Kiebre M. , Sawadogo B. , Kiebre Z. , Sawadogo N. , Kabore B. , Sawadogo M. , Bationo-Kando P.
Published: March 2019

Corchorus olitorius is more and more cultivated in Burkina Faso because of its socio - economic interest. Hence the objective of this study which will contribute to improve the knowledge of the genetic diversity of the species in Burkina Faso. To this end, seventeen SSR markers were used to characterize ninety-six (96) accessions of the four phytogeographic sectors of Burkina Faso. These accessions consist of 16 accessions of the variety C. olitorius var insicifolius and 80 accessions of the variety C. olitorius var olitorius. The results of the analysis of the diversity of microsatellite markers tested, they were seized sixteen (16) of the seventeen (17) SSRs are polymorphic with a rate of polymorphism of 92.19 % and number of 53 alleles with a mean of three (3) alleles per locus. As for the Shannon diversity index, with an average of 1.05, it is between 0.53 for the HK-27 marker and 1.90 for the HK-19 marker. The polymorphism information content (PIC) potential ranged from 0.11 for the HK-12 marker to 0.49 for the HK-6 marker with an average of 0.32. A structure of diversity into three groups regardless of phytogeographic areas or botanical variety has always been.
Coal and Biomass Pyrolysis and Gasification – A Review
Authors: Tiedeu William Ngaha , Sylvia Adipah
Published: March 2019

In order to advance the research on using new techniques to produce clean and affordable               energy, many gasification experiments have been conducted on different feedstocks and                      the results have been analyzed. Two promising feedstocks which in the future could help to meet the energy demand are coal and biomass. In this paper, we have collected deep insightful information about the processes of coal and biomass gasification and then compared them. The information contained in this paper cover coal and biomass properties, the devolatization process and the reactions occurring during char gasification. The contrast analysis which has been conducted showed for instance that biomass’ higher atomic ratio (H/C, O/C) was the cause of its lower heating value in comparison to coal; carbon conversion values for biomass was significantly higher compared to coal, and during the gasification process, coal feedstock released significantly higher pollutant gases (like H2S) than biomass. In the end, we also presented some innovative technologies that are now developed in the gasification field and which have proven to be highly efficient.
Ohmic Dissipative MHD Pressure-driven Coupled-flow and Heat Transfer Across a Porous Medium with Thermal Radiation
Authors: F. Baiyeri J. , A. Mohammed M. , A. Esan O. , O. Ogunbayo T. , E. Enobabor O.
Published: March 2019

In this study, a pressure driven flow of a magnetohydrodynamic steady coupled-flow across a porous layer horizontal bottom plate with buoyancy force is investigated. The heat transfer problem is also examined by taking viscous and Ohmic dissipation and radiation effects in the energy equation into consideration. The velocity and temperature slip boundary conditions are taken at the plate and at the interface of the porous medium and clear fluid, it is assumed that velocity components to be continuous and the jump in shearing stresses. The solutions to the problem are obtained by employing fourth order Runge-Kutta scheme along with shooting technique and the effects of the pertinent parameters entrenches in the flow system are shown graphically and quantitatively discussed. The results shows that an increase in the thermal convection and pressure gradient enhances the flow rate in both region but the effect was great at the clear region than the porous medium region.
An Investigation of Electricity Power Fluctuations and Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Dekina, Kogi State
Authors: Zakariya Nurudeen Yakubu , Tunde Nafiu Akeem , Ibrahim Jibo Abubakar
Published: March 2019

SME owners face the problem of unreliable power supply in their routine business operations in Dekina Local government of Kogi State. Capacity installed is not utilized and this affects their performances and economic contribution. This study investigates the influence of unreliable power supply on economic contribution and performance of SMEs in Dekina Local government of Kogi State. The study adopted a survey research design. Finding shows that unreliable electricity power supply has caused increased operation cost and untimely death for SMEs in Dekina Local government of Kogi State. Furthermore, finding shows that significant differences exist between SMEs that utilized installed capacity and those that do not utilized installed capacity in terms of operation cost, productivity, competitive edge, market share, contribution to poverty and unemployment reduction. It was concluded that SMEs that utilized installed capacity witness reduced operation cost, increased productivity, higher competitive edge, larger market share, a greater contribution to poverty and unemployment reduction. The study, therefore, recommends that the government and other economic stakeholders should device alternative reliable power supply to facilitate the economic contribution and performance of SMEs in Dekina Local government of Kogi State.
Effects of Oxygenated Additives with Diesel on the Performance of D I Diesel Engine
Authors: Rao P. Venkateswara , Ramesh S. , Kumar S. Anil
Published: March 2019

The primary objective of this work is to reduce the particulate matter (PM) or smoke emission and oxides of nitrogen (NOx emissions) the two important harmful emissions and to increase the performance of diesel engine by using oxygenated additives with diesel as blend fuel. Formulation of available diesel fuel with additives is an advantage than considering of engine modification for improvement of higher output. From the available additives, three oxygenates are selected for experimentation by considering many aspects like cost, content of oxygen, flashpoint, solubility, seal etc. The selected oxygenates are Ethyl Aceto Acetate (EAA), Diethyl Carbonate (DEC), Diethylene Glycol (DEG). These oxygenates are blended with diesel fuel in proportions of 2.5%, 5% and 7.5% by volume and experiments were conducted on a single cylinder naturally aspirated direct injection diesel engine. From the results the conclusion are higher brake power and lower BSFC obtained for DEC blends at 7.5% of additive as compared to EAA, DEG and diesel at full load. In case of DEC blends the smoke emission is lower, whereas NOx emissions are very low in case of EAA additive blend fuels. The DEC can be considered is the best oxygenating additive to be blend with diesel in a proportion of 7.5% by volume.
Activation of p38 MAPK Signaling‐Mediated Endoplasmic Reticulum Unfolded Protein Response by Nanopolystyrene Particles
Authors: Qu Man , Liu Yaqi , Xu Kangni , Wang Dayong
Published: March 2019

Nanopolystyrene particles have been widely used in many fields. However, the molecular responses of organisms to nanopolystyrene particles at predicted environmentally relevant concentrations are still largely unclear. Caenorhabditis elegans is employed herein to investigate the molecular response of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling to nanoplastic particles (1 µg L−1) and the underlying molecular mechanism. In wild‐type nematodes, prolonged exposure (from L1‐larvae to adult day 3) to nanopolystyrene particles increases the expression of pmk‐1 encoding a p38 MAPK. Mutation of pmk‐1 induces a susceptibility to nanopolystyrene toxicity, suggesting that the p38 MAPK signaling mediates a protective response to nanopolystyrene particles. PMK‐1 functions in the intestine to act upstream of two transcriptional factors (ATF‐7 and SKN‐1), which can further act upstream of XBP‐1, a key regulator of endoplasmic reticulum unfolded protein response (ER UPR), to regulate the response to nanopolystyrene particles. PMK‐1, ATF‐7, SKN‐1, and XBP‐1 are all required for the induction of intestinal ER UPR in nematodes exposed to nanopolystyrene particles. Therefore, the intestinal p38 MAPK signaling may mediate a protective response to nanopolystyrene particles by activating XBP‐1‐mediated ER UPR. The results herein highlight the importance of molecular response in the intestine of organisms to nanopolystyrene particles.
Easy, Scalable, Robust, Micropatterned Silk Fibroin Cell Substrates
Authors: Xu Meng , Pradhan Sayantan , Agostinacchio Francesca , Pal Ramendra K. , Greco Gabriele , Mazzolai Barbara , Pugno Nicola M. , Motta Antonella , Yadavalli Vamsi K.
Published: March 2019

Thin polymeric films are being explored for biomedical uses such as drug delivery, biofiltration, biosensors, and tissue regeneration. Of specific interest is the formation of mechanically flexible sheets, which can be formed with controllable thickness for sealing wounds, or as biomimetic cellular constructs. Flexible substrates with precise micro‐ and nanopatterns can function as supports for cell growth with conformal contact at the biointerface. To date, approaches to form free‐standing, thin sheets are limited in the ability to present patterned architectures and micro/nanotextured surfaces. Other materials have a lack of degradability, precluding their application as cellular scaffolds. An approach is suggested using biocompatible and biodegradable films fabricated from silk fibroin. This work presents the fabrication and characterization of flexible, micropatterned, and biodegradable 2D fibroin sheets for cell adhesion and proliferation. A facile and scalable technique using photolithography is shown to fabricate optically transparent, strong, and flexible fibroin substrates with tunable and precise micropatterns over large areas. By controlling the surface architectures, the control of cell adhesion and spreading can be observed. Additionally, the base material is fully degradable via proteolysis. Through mechanical control and directing the adherent cells, it is possible to explore interactions of cells and the microscale geometric topography.
Multiplexed, Sequential Secretion Analysis of the Same Single Cells Reveals Distinct Effector Response Dynamics Dependent on the Initial Basal State
Authors: Chen Zhuo , Lu Yao , Zhang Kerou , Xiao Yang , Lu Jun , Fan Rong
Published: March 2019

The effector response of immune cells dictated by an array of secreted proteins is a highly dynamic process, requiring sequential measurement of all relevant proteins from single cells. Herein, a microchip‐based, 10‐plexed, sequential secretion assay on the same single cells and at the scale of ≈5000 single cells measured simultaneously over 4 time points are shown. It is applied to investigating the time course of single human macrophage response to toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) ligand lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and reveals four distinct activation modes for different proteins in single cells. Protein secretion dynamics classifies the cells into two major activation states dependent on the basal state of each cell. Single‐cell RNA sequencing performed on the same samples at the matched time points further demonstrates the existence of two major activation states at the transcriptional level, which are enriched for translation versus inflammatory programs, respectively. These results show a cell‐intrinsic heterogeneous response in a phenotypically homogeneous cell population. This work demonstrates the longitudinal tracking of protein secretion signature in thousands of single cells at multiple time points, providing dynamic information to better understand how individual immune cells react to pathogenic challenges over time and how they together constitute a population response.
First case of Roma ethnic origin with Andermann syndrome: A novel frameshift mutation in exon 20 of SLC12A6 gene
Authors: Pacheva Iliyana , Todorov Tihomir , Halil Zeyra , Yordanova Ralitsa , Todorova Albena , Geneva Ina , Galabova Fani , Ivanov Ivan
Published: March 2019

Andermann syndrome (AS) is caused by mutation of SLC12A6 gene. It comprises severe progressive sensory and motor neuropathy with early onset, varying degree of agenesis of corpus callosum (ACC) and mental retardation. AS occurs occasionally among population outside the northeastern Quebec—Saguenay‐Lac‐ St‐Jean and Charlevoix regions, inhabited by French Canadians. None of the described patients were of Roma ethnic origin. We present an 8‐month‐old infant of Roma ethnic origin with AS, caused by a novel frame shift mutation c.2604delT,p.(Asp868GlufsTer11) in exon 20 of SLC12A6 gene. Our case presented with several atypical findings: clinical presentation resembling “spinal muscular atrophy plus” syndrome; tongue fasciculations, which are not reported in the literature; early contractures of the wrists; normal motor action potentials and preserved sensory action potentials. Our patient is the first of Roma origin from nonconsanguineous parents, which suggests that this mutation might be widespread in the Roma population, although screening for this mutation in 140 alleles from Roma individuals originating from the same geographic region did not reveal further carriers, implying the mutation is rare. We recommend that Roma patients presenting with the clinical phenotype of AS should be tested for this mutation primarily.
Photophysical and photodynamic properties of Pyronin Y in micellar media at different temperatures
Authors: Beşer Burcu Meryem , Arik Mustafa , Onganer Yavuz
Published: March 2019

In this study, photophysics and photodynamical properties of Pyronin Y (PyY) in different liquid media were investigated. Interactions of PyY, which is a positively charged pigment compound pertaining to the xanthene derivatives with surfactants possessing distinct charges, were determined by using the molecular absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy techniques. It was observed that band intensities of absorption and fluorescence spectra belonging to PyY increase in proportion to the water when compared to three micelle systems, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and Triton X‐100 (TX‐100). This suggests that interactions in micelle systems are different from those in deionized water, and solvation and surface interactions modify. It is determined that the strongest interaction occurs between PyY dye and SDS, anionic surfactant, and this interaction arises from the electrostatic forces. Calculated photophysical parameters indicated that the microenvironment of PyY in SDS micelle is different to that of other systems. In temperature studies, it was reported that increasing the temperature of the samples increased non‐radiative transitions. Steady‐state fluorescence anisotropy values were calculated by using fluorescence intensities of PyY compound in pre‐micellar, micellar and post‐micellar systems. Once the PyY fluorescence probe is added to the surfactant containing solutions below the critical micelle concentrations, the measured anisotropy values were found to be low because the probe remains in the deionized water phase. When the surfactant concentration of the medium becomes closer to the critical micelle concentrations, the steady‐state anisotropy value prominently increases. This is because of the restrictions on the rotational diffusion of the probe in micellar solution. It is observed that positively charged PyY shows a higher affinity to the negatively charged SDS compared with the positively charged CTAB and neutral TX‐100 surfactants. This can be explained by Coulombic interactions.
Identification of upstream culture conditions and harvest time parameters that affect host cell protein clearance
Authors: Wilson Louisa J. , Lewis Will , Kucia‐Tran Richard , Bracewell Daniel G.
Published: March 2019

During early stage bioprocess development, characterizing interactions between unit operations is a key challenge. Such interactions include the release of host cell enzymes early in the process causing losses in product quality downstream.

Using a CHO‐expressed IgG1 system, the impact of cell culture duration was investigated using a 50 L bioreactor and performing scale‐down protein A purification. While antibody titer doubled during the last week of culture, the post‐protein A host cell protein (HCP) levels increased from 243 to 740 ppm. Effects of pH and temperature were then explored using fed‐batch ambr250 bioreactors, and parameters enabling higher titers were linked to a decrease in post‐protein A product purity. These trade‐offs between titer and product quality were visualized using a window of operation.

The downstream space was explored further by exposing shake flask material to shear representative of disc stack centrifugation, prior to purification, and by adding polishing chromatography. While product quality decreased with progressing cultivation, cells became more shear resistant. Polishing chromatography resulted in product fragmentation which increased fourfold from Day 10 to 24, adding constraint to achieving both efficient HCP clearance as well as high monomer purities.

These examples highlight the importance of adopting integrated approaches to upstream and downstream development strategies to enable whole process optimization.
Predictive factors of early recurrence after R0 resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma: A single institution experience in China
Authors: Hu Hai‐Jie , Jin Yan‐Wen , Shrestha Anuj , Ma Wen‐Jie , Wang Jun‐Ke , Liu Fei , Zhu Ya‐Yun , Zhou Rong‐Xing , Regmi Parbatraj , Cheng Nan‐Sheng , Li Fu‐Yu
Published: March 2019

Prediction of early postoperative recurrence is of great significance for follow‐up treatment. However, there are few studies available that focus on high‐risk factors of early postoperative recurrence or even the definition the exact time of early recurrence for hilar cholangiocarcinoma. Thus, we aimed to examine the optimal cut‐off value for defining the early in patients with R0 resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma and to investigate prognostic factors associated with early recurrence. Two hundred and fifty‐eight patients with R0 resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma between 2000 and 2015 were included. The minimum P value approach was used to define the optimal cut‐off of early recurrence. The prognostic factors associated with early recurrence were investigated. The optimal cut‐off value for dividing patients into early and non‐early recurrence groups after R0 resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma was 12 months. Sixty‐two patients were recorded as early recurrence, and the remaining 196 patients were labeled as non‐early recurrence. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated lymph node metastasis (OR = 2.756, 95% CI 1.409‐5.393; P = 0.003), poor differentiation (OR = 1.653; 95% CI 1.040‐2.632; P = 0.034), increased postoperative CA 19‐9 levels (OR = 1.965, 95% CI 1.282‐3.013; P = 0.002), neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio > 3.41 (OR = 5.125, 95% CI 2.419‐10.857; P < 0.001) and age > 60 years (OR = 2.018, 95% CI 1.032‐3.947; P = 0.040) were independent determinants of early and non‐early recurrence. Poor differentiation (HR = 2.609, 95% CI 1.600‐4.252; P < 0.001), Bismuth classification type III/IV (HR = 2.510, 95% CI 1.298‐4.852; P = 0.006) and perineural invasion (HR=2.380, 95% CI 1.271‐4.457; P = 0.007) were independent factors of overall survival in the subgroup of patients who developed early recurrence. The optimal cut‐off value for dividing early recurrence after R0 resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma was 12 months. Tumor differentiation, Bismuth classification, and perineural invasion were independent factors of overall survival in the subgroup of patients with early recurrence. Patients with risk factors should be monitored closely after curative surgery.
“The upward spiral staircase of caring”: A hermeneutic phenomenology study of the caring competency of Filipino nurses grounded in competency‐based education
Authors: Paragas Emmanuel Dayao
Published: March 2019

Background

Despite an enormous amount of research supporting the necessity for a caring perspective in nursing education, the literature reflects a dearth of information on efforts to uphold the internalization of the value of caring throughout the nursing curricula.

Aim

To explore the lived experiences of the nurses in relation to their caring competency grounded in competency‐based education (CBE) pedagogy.

Methods

This study is a Heideggerian hermeneutic phenomenology. The professional nurses (n = 10) were selected using purposive sampling from a tertiary private hospital in Manila, Philippines, between February and March 2016. The data were collected through in‐depth semi‐structured interview and observation. The analysis and interpretation were guided by Van Manen's six‐step method of phenomenology, and the criteria of qualitative scientific rigor were followed.

Results and Discussion

The results revealed five themes: (1) caring as outcome‐oriented; (2) caring as transformative moment by moment; (3) caring as selfless commitment; (4) caring as valuing the worth of human life; and (5) caring as an achievement of a transcendent level of self‐fulfillment. Further, the caring competency of nurses was symbolically represented by an upward spiral staircase which could be considered as a metaphor for growth.

Conclusion

The CBE was found to be effective in developing the caring competency of nurses, wherein it goes through a complex transformation process as they face different kinds of situations and experiences. The caring competent nurse can provide a holistic approach in providing care to various types of patients.
Adsorbent Regeneration by Non‐thermal Plasma for Elimination of Odorous Compounds from Indoor Air
Authors: Holzer Frank , Kopinke Frank-Dieter , Roland Ulf
Published: March 2019

The non‐thermal plasma (NTP) technique was shown to be a method to improve indoor air quality. In particular in kitchens, odorous emissions can be removed by NTP. A combined concept of adsorption of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and plasma regeneration of the adsorber was tested in adsorption‐regeneration‐adsorption cycles. As reference VOCs, 2‐methylthiophene, 2‐methylpyrazine, 2‐acetylthiazole, nonanal, and trans‐2‐nonenal were selected in humid air streams. These odorous compounds are emitted during cooking and frying processes. The adsorption‐regeneration concept was also tested during a simulated frying process with garlic in rape oil. A hydrophobic zeolite was chosen as adsorber material and placed directly into the discharge zone of a plasma reactor.
Intraspecific and interspecific trait variability in tadpole meta‐communities from the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest
Authors: Xavier Jordani Mainara , Mouquet Nicolas , Casatti Lilian , Menin Marcelo , de Cerqueira Rossa‐Feres Denise , Albert Cécile Hélène
Published: March 2019

A better understanding of species coexistence and community dynamics may benefit from more insights on trait variability at the individual and species levels.

Tadpole assemblages offer an excellent system to understand the relative influence of intraspecific and interspecific variability on community assembly, due to their high phenotypic plasticity, and the strong influence that environmental variables have on their spatial distribution and individual performance.

Here, we quantified the intraspecific and interspecific components of tadpoles’ trait variability in order to investigate their relative role in shaping tadpole communities.

We selected eight functional traits related to microhabitat use, foraging strategies, and swimming ability. We measured these traits on 678 individuals from 22 species captured in 43 ponds in the Atlantic Forest. We used single‐ and multitrait analyses to decompose trait variability. To explore the action of external and internal filtering on community assembly, we used a variance decomposition approach that compares phenotypic variability at the individual, population, community and regional levels.

On average, 33% of trait variability was due to within‐species variation. This decomposition varied widely among traits. We found only a reduced effect of external filtering (low variation in the height of the ventral fin within ponds in comparison to the total variation), whereas the internal filtering was stronger than expected. Traits related to the use of different microhabitats through the water column were generally less variable than traits related to swimming ability to escape of predators, with tail traits being highly variable within species.

Our study highlights the importance of incorporating both intraspecific and interspecific, trait differences and of focusing on a diversity of traits related to both stabilizing niche and fitness differences in order to better understand how trait variation relates to species coexistence.
Exploring the cooccurrence of behavioural phenotypes for avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder in a partial hospitalization sample
Authors: Reilly Erin E. , Brown Tiffany A. , Gray Emily K. , Kaye Walter H. , Menzel Jessie E.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Literature providing clinical characterizations of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) has proposed the occurrence of three functions for food refusal: fear of negative consequences, lack of hunger, or sensory sensitivity. Recent studies have suggested that these functions may be used to subtype patients presenting with ARFID; however, other work suggests that these categories are not mutually exclusive and instead represent neurobiological dimensions that can cooccur. The current study explored the potential cooccurrence of behavioural phenotypes in patients with ARFID presenting to a partial hospitalization program.

Method

Two raters conducted a retrospective chart review of patients with ARFID presenting to treatment from June 2014 to May 2018 (N = 59).

Results

Regarding cooccurrence of symptoms consistent with behavioural phenotypes, raters showed excellent agreement, and over 50% of the sample endorsed symptoms consistent with more than one phenotype. The sensory sensitivity phenotype was most common in the sample and frequently cooccurred with both other phenotypes.

Discussion

Results suggest that multiple functions for food avoidance may be present within one individual. Future work should aim to further characterize individuals presenting with singular versus multiple phenotype characteristics.
Problem‐solving therapy reduces subjective burden levels in caregivers of family members with mild cognitive impairment or early‐stage dementia: Secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Garand Linda , Morse Jennifer Q. , ChiaRebecca Lichun , Barnes Jennifer , Dadebo Victoria , Lopez Oscar L. , Dew Mary Amanda
Published: March 2019

Objectives

Interventions addressing burden have limited impact among long‐term family caregivers. We examined whether problem‐solving therapy (PST) would reduce burden levels of caregivers of individuals diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or early‐stage dementia (AD).

Methods

Caregivers (N = 73) randomly received PST or nutritional training (NT). Burden measures were assessed over 1‐year post‐intervention.

Results

Relative to NT, caregivers receiving PST endorsed improved perceived burden levels over time, regardless of the type of caregiver. Distress over the care recipient's dementia‐related behaviors remained low over time among MCI caregivers receiving PST, while these burden levels among MCI caregivers receiving NT rose over time. AD caregivers receiving PST endorsed reductions in these burden levels over time, while AD caregivers in the NT group endorsed higher burden levels over time.

Conclusion

PST, taught early in the caregiving trajectory, improves subjective burden levels among caregivers of family members with relatively mild cognitive deficits.