bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Local and Exotic Breeds of Chickens in Pankrono–Kumasi, Ghana
Authors: Asumang Philip , Akoto Delali Justice , Wiafe Francis , Kamil Zeba , Iddrisu Balali Gadafi , Afua Dela Gobe Vera , Nketiah Siaw Wilson , Pinamang Grace
Published: September 2019

The world’s poultry population is on the ascendency as a result of the high demand for poultry product by consumers. In Africa, poultry meat is estimated to represent almost 25% of all meat, whereas in some areas it covers 100% of the animal protein available. The high demand for poultry products has led to an increase in poultry production in almost all African countries including Ghana, with the domestic chicken being the most kept. The sector has been reported to have recorded a drop in production, partly due to infection of birds by diseases, causing organisms including parasites. The study conducted was to investigate the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in local and exotic breeds of chickens in Pankrono–Kumasi in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Two hundred (200) cloacae of slaughtered birds were collected from slaughtering units in the study area and the faecal samples were examined for the eggs/cysts of gastrointestinal parasites using the simple flotation technique and microscopy. Nematodes and cestodes were recovered in 131 (65.5%) of the samples examined with Ascaridia galli recorded as the most prevalent. Some of the nematodes include Ascaridia galli 65 (32.5%), Heterakis gallinarum 38 (19.0%), and Capillaria spp. 29 (14.5%). Some cestodes were Raillietina spp. 19(9.5%) and Choanotaenia infundibulum 5 (2.5%) with Prosthogonimus spp. 3 (1.5%) being the only trematode recovered. The local breeds recorded a percentage prevalence of 76.0%, making them the most susceptible breed to gastrointestinal parasites. The results obtained attest to the reason behind the reduction in poultry production. It is therefore recommended that farmers are educated on farm managerial practices that will reduce the risk of infection and help increase production to meet the demand of consumers.
Cross-Reaction, Enhancement, and Neutralization Activity of Dengue Virus Antibodies against Zika Virus: A Study in the Mexican Population
Authors: Montecillo-Aguado Mayra R. , Montes-Gómez Alfredo E. , García-Cordero Julio , Corzo-Gómez Josselin , Vivanco-Cid Héctor , Mellado-Sánchez Gabriela , Muñoz-Medina J. Esteban , Gutiérrez-Castañeda Benito , Santos-Argumedo Leopoldo , González-Bonilla César , Cedillo-Barrón Leticia
Published: September 2019

Zika virus (ZIKV), an emerging mosquito-borne flavivirus, has quickly spread in many regions around the world where dengue virus (DENV) is endemic. This represents a major health concern, given the high homology between these two viruses, which can result in cross-reactivity. The aim of this study was to determine the cross-reacting antibody response of the IgM and IgG classes against the recombinant envelope protein of ZIKV (rE-ZIKV) in sera from patients with acute-phase infection of different clinical forms of dengue, i.e., dengue fever (DF) and dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) (before the arrival of ZIKV in Mexico 2010), as well as acute-phase sera of ZIKV patients, together with the implications in neutralization and antibody-dependent enhancement. Differences in IgM responses were observed in a number of DF and DHF patients whose sera cross-reacted with the rE-ZIK antigen, with 42% recognition between acute-phase DHF and ZIKV but 27% recognition between DF and ZIKV. Regarding IgG antibodies, 71.5% from the DF group showed cross-reactivity to rE-ZIKV in contrast with 50% and only 25% of DHF and ZIKV serum samples, respectively, which specifically recognized the homologous antigen. The DHF group showed more enhancement of ZIKV infection of FCRγ-expressing cells compared to the DF group. Furthermore, the DHF group also showed a higher cross-neutralizing ability than that of DF. This is the first report where DF and DHF serum samples were evaluated for cross-reactivity against Zika protein and ZIKV. Furthermore, DENV serum samples cross-protect against ZIKV through neutralizing antibodies but at the same time mediate antibody-dependent enhancement in the sequential ZIKV infection.
Menotrophin Induced Autoimmune Hepatitis
Authors: Alqrinawi Shurouq H. , Akbar Nuralhuda , AlFaddag Hind , Akbar Shahrazad , Akbar Lujayn , Butt Sohail A. , Aljawad Mohammed
Published: September 2019

Menotrophin is a protein-based hormonal therapy. It is used as a fertility medication that is given as injection either subcutaneously or intramuscularly. Menotrophin has not been previously reported to cause drug-induced liver injury. Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is commonly seen nowadays with the expansion of the drug industry. It is associated with prescribed medications, over the counter drugs, herbal and dietary supplements. We report the first case of Menotrophin-induced autoimmune hepatitis in a 26-year-old Caucasian woman who was diagnosed with primary infertility due to failure to conceive after five years of marriage. She had received several cycles of Menotrophin, then developed new onset jaundice and fatigue associated with increase in transaminases. She had normal baseline liver function and enzymes prior to receiving treatment with Menotrophin. Evaluation showed no evidence of viral hepatitis, metabolic, alcoholic or vascular causes of liver injury. Autoimmune screening was positive for antinuclear antibody (ANA) with titer of 1 : 640 fine speckled, immunoglobulin G (IgG) level was 1900 mg/dl. Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) and antismooth muscle antibodies were negative. Liver biopsy showed features of chronic hepatitis with interface hepatitis and prominence of plasma cells, which best reflects autoimmune hepatitis. Her liver enzymes and bilirubin completely normalized after discontinuation of further Menotrophin therapy and starting treatment with prednisolone and Azathioprine.
Cytological and Wet Mount Microscopic Observations Made in Urine ofSchistosoma haematobium-Infected Children: Hint of the Implication in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Tetteh-Quarcoo Patience B. , Akuetteh Benjamin K. , Owusu Irene A. , Quayson Solomon E. , Attah Simon K. , Armah Robert , Afutu Emmanuel , Afrah Ama , Addo-Osafo Kantanka , Smith Cecilia , Gyasi Richard K. , Ayeh-Kumi Patrick F.
Published: September 2019

Background. Schistosomiasis is the second major human parasitic disease next to malaria, in terms of socioeconomic and public health consequences, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.Schistosoma haematobium(S. haematobium) is a trematode and one of the species ofSchistosomathat cause urogenital schistosomiasis (urinary schistosomiasis). Although the knowledge of this disease has improved over the years, there are still endemic areas, with most of the reported cases in Africa, including Ghana. Not much has been done in Ghana to investigate cytological abnormalities in individuals within endemic communities, although there are epidemiologic evidences linkingS. haematobiuminfection with carcinoma of the bladder.Aim. The aim of this study was to identify microscopic and cytological abnormalities in the urine deposits ofS. haematobium-infected children.Methodology. Three hundred and sixty-seven (367) urine samples were collected from school children in Zenu and Weija communities. All the samples were examined microscopically for the presence ofS. haematobiumeggs, after which the infected samples and controls were processed for cytological investigation.Results.S. haematobiumova were present in 66 (18.0%) out of the 367 urine samples. Inflammatory cells (82%, 54/66), hyperkeratosis (47%, 31/66), and squamous cell metaplasia (24%, 16/66) were the main observations made during the cytological examination of theS. haematobium-infected urine samples.Conclusion. Cytological abnormalities inS. haematobium-infected children may play an important role in the severity of the disease, leading to the possible development of bladder cancer in later years, if early attention is not given. Therefore, routine cytological screening for urogenital schistosomiasis patients (especially children) at hospitals inS. haematobium-endemic locations is recommended.
Effect of Zinc on the Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in the Brain of Nickel-Treated Mice
Authors: Šulinskienė Jurgita , Bernotienė Rasa , Baranauskienė Dalė , Naginienė Rima , Stanevičienė Inga , Kašauskas Artūras , Ivanov Leonid
Published: September 2019

The overexposure to nickel due to the extensive use of it in modern technology remains a major public health concern. The mechanisms of pathological effects of this metal remain elusive. The present study was devoted to evaluate the effect of nickel on the oxidative state of the brain cells of mice and to assess whether zinc as redox state modulator could efficiently protect cells against nickel’s neurotoxicity. As oxidative stress biomarkers in the present study, we have measured the concentrations of reduced glutathione, metallothioneins, and malondialdehyde and the activity of the enzyme δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase. For the single metal exposure, mice were i.p. injected once with solutions of NiCl2 and/or ZnSO4; repeated exposure was performed i.p. injecting metal salt solutions for 14 days (once a day). The control mice received i.p. injections of saline. Results of our study demonstrate that single and 14 days of Ni2+ exposure decreased reduced glutathione and increased malondialdehyde contents in the brain of mice. Repeated Ni2+ administration significantly inhibited δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase while increasing brain metallothionein concentration at both exposure periods. Zinc exhibited a protective effect against nickel-induced glutathione and lipid peroxidation in brain cells of mice at both intervals of time, while repeated exposure to this metal significantly raised the brain metallothionein content. Repeated Zn2+ pretreatment protected δ-aminolevulinate dehydratase from Ni2+-induced inhibition and significantly increased metallothionein concentration at both investigated time intervals.
Design and Production of Innovative Turbomachinery Components via Topology Optimization and Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Meli Enrico , Rindi Andrea , Ridolfi Alessandro , Furferi Rocco , Buonamici Francesco , Iurisci Giuseppe , Corbò Simone , Cangioli Francesco
Published: September 2019

The present paper proposes a methodology to design and manufacture optimized turbomachinery components by leveraging the potential of Topology Optimization (TO) and Additive Manufacturing (AM). The method envisages the use of TO to define the best configuration of the rotoric components in terms of both static and dynamic behavior with a resultant reduction of overall weight. Eventually, the topology-optimized component is manufactured by using appropriate materials that can guarantee valid mechanical performances. The proposed strategy has been applied to a 2D impeller used for centrifugal compressors to prove the effectiveness of a TO+AM-based approach. Although this approach has never been extensively used before to centrifugal compressors and expanders, its application on rotor and stator components might unlock several benefits: tuning the natural frequencies, a reduction in the stress level, and a lighter weight of the rotating part. These objectives can be reached alone or in combination, performing a single analysis or a multiple analyses optimization. Finally, the introduction of AM technologies as standard manufacturing resources could bring sensible benefits with respect to the time to production and availability of components. Such aspects are essential in the Oil and Gas context, when dealing with new projects but also for service operations.
The Role of Nrf2 Signaling Pathway in Eucommia ulmoides Flavones Regulating Oxidative Stress in the Intestine of Piglets
Authors: Xiao Dingfu , Yuan Daixiu , Tan Bihui , Wang Jing , Liu Yanhong , Tan Bie
Published: September 2019

Eucommia ulmoides flavones (EUF) have been demonstrated to alleviate oxidative stress and intestinal damage in piglets, but their effect target is still poorly understood. NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway plays a very important role in the defense mechanism. This study was designed to investigate the regulation of EUF on the Nrf2 pathway and inhibition of Nrf2 on oxidative stress in the intestine of piglets. An in vivo study was conducted in weaned piglets treated with basal diet, basal diet+diquat, and 100 mg/kg EUF diet+diquat for 14 d to determine Nrf2 and Keap1 protein expressions, as well as downstream antioxidant gene mRNA expression. An in vitro study was performed in a porcine jejunal epithelial cell line to investigate the effect of inhibiting Nrf2 on cell growth and intracellular oxidative stress parameters. The results showed that the supplementation of EUF decreased the oxidized glutathione (GSSG) concentration and the ratio of GSSG to glutathione (GSH) but increased the protein expressions of nuclear Nrf2 and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) as well as mRNA expression of heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO-1), and glutamate cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) in the small intestinal mucosa of diquat-challenged piglets. When Nrf2 was inhibited by using ML385, cell viability, cellular antioxidant activities, expressions of nuclear Nrf2 and Keap1 protein, and downstream antioxidant enzyme (HO-1, NQO-1, and GCLC) mRNA were decreased in paraquat-treated enterocytes. These results showed that the Nrf2 signaling pathway played an important role in EUF-regulating oxidative stress in the intestine of piglets.
IgG4-Related Tumefactive Lesions at the Pulmonary Artery Causing Stenosis of Bilateral Primary Branches and Resultant Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Tan Mengwei , Li Zhuodong , Tang Hao , Sun Gaofeng , Xu Zhiyun
Published: September 2019

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a newly recognized but rare entity involving multiple organs, with autoimmune pancreatitis, retroperitoneal mass, and the inflammation of glands being typical in most cases. IgG4-related perivascular lesions, although uncommon, have been increasingly reported in recent years. Diagnosis of IgG4-RD relies on comprehensive consideration of characteristic histopathological and immunostaining results, clinical and imaging findings, and serological results according to several widely recognized diagnostic criteria. This benign disorder frequently presenting tumefactive lesions should be distinguished from malignancy and other inflammatory mimics. Here we report a case of tumefactive mass at the bifurcation of the pulmonary trunk causing stenosis of the proximal left and right pulmonary artery (PA) and resultant pulmonary hypertension (PH). Bypass from the PA trunk to the right branch distal to stenosis was performed to resolve the obstructive hemodynamic disturbance and PH. Glucocorticoid monotherapy was performed after a diagnosis of definite IgG4-RD. Longitudinal disease activity assessment via imaging modalities, serological parameters, and IgG4-RD responder index verified no relapse during follow-up and the validity of the treatment strategy.
Discovery of Putative XX/XY Male Heterogamety in Emydura subglobosa Turtles Exposes a Novel Trajectory of Sex Chromosome Evolution in Emydura
Authors: Lee LingSze , Montiel Eugenia E. , Valenzuela Nicole
Published: September 2019

The discovery of sex chromosome systems in non-model organisms has elicited growing recognition that sex chromosomes evolved via diverse paths that are not fully elucidated. Lineages with labile sex determination, such as turtles, hold critical cues, yet data are skewed toward hide-neck turtles (suborder Cryptodira) and scant for side-neck turtles (suborder Pleurodira). Here, we used classic and molecular cytogenetics to investigate Emydura subglobosa (ESU), an unstudied side-neck turtle with genotypic sex determination from the family Chelidae, where extensive morphological divergence exists among XX/XY systems. Our data represent the first cytogenetic description for ESU. Similarities were found between ESU and E. macquarii (EMA), such as identical chromosome number (2n = 50), a single and dimorphic nucleolus organizer region (NOR) localized in a microchromosome pair (ESU14) of both sexes (detected via FISH of 18S rDNA). Only the larger NOR is active (detected by silver staining). As in EMA, comparative genome hybridization revealed putative macro XX/XY chromosomes in ESU (the 4th largest pair). Our comparative analyses and revaluation of previous data strongly support the hypothesis that Emydura's XX/XY system evolved via fusion of an ancestral micro-Y (retained by Chelodina longicollis) onto a macro-autosome. This evolutionary trajectory differs from the purported independent evolution of XX/XY from separate ancestral autosomes in Chelodina and Emydura that was previously reported. Our data permit dating this Y-autosome fusion to at least the split of Emydura around 45 Mya and add critical information about the evolution of the remarkable diversity of sex-determining mechanisms in turtles, reptiles, and vertebrates.
Historiografia política da textualidade teatral da figura travesti
Authors: Leal Dodi Tavares Borges
Published: September 2019

Como se documentou a teatralidade travesti ao longo da história? Como o texto se interpôs à encenação ao longo da história teatral no sentido de articular a categoria travesti? O desenvolvimento de produções cênicas contemporâneas cujo bojo investigativo destaca os desafios de reconhecimento das transgeneridades no social nos remete à reflexão sobre quais as variações psicossociais da participação textual da categoria travesti na historiografia do teatro. Este artigo traz o levantamento e análise da produção textual sobre as transgeneridades no teatro em três períodos históricos: a) Baixa Idade Média (séculos XI a XV) e Renascença Italiana (séculos XIII a XV); b) Teatro Elisabetano (século XVI); e c) Comédie Française (séculos XVII e XVIII). Para verificar os modos como as produções teatrais que contém a figura travesti fizeram frente ao momento social próprio de cada época, refletimos sobre o efeito estético e as mudanças nos modos de recepção teatral da figura travesti.
Les danses d’après
Authors: Slomp Sofia Vilasboas , Launay Isabelle
Published: September 2019

Este texto é constituído de extratos do livro Cultures de l’oubli et citation: les danses d’après, II, 2018. (Culturas de esquecimento e citação: as danças de depois, II).
Neea itanhaensis (Nyctaginaceae, Pisonieae), a new species from São Paulo State, Brazil

Authors: ROSSETTO ELSON FELIPE SANDOLI , SANTOS PATRÍCIA DE OLIVEIRA , COSTA DANIEL SILVA , FERRAZ JOSÉ ROBERTO
Published: September 2019

A new species, Neea itanhaensis, is described from São Paulo State, Brazil. N. itanhaensis differs from the other Neea species by its inflorescences with verticillate branching and sessile or subsessile leaves with an acute or oblique base and prominent secondary veins on the abaxial surface that diverge at less than a 90º angle from each other. Illustrations and comments about the taxonomy, phenology, distribution, habitat, conservation status and etymology are provided for the new species.
Delayed presentation of cardiac injury four weeks after stabbing
Authors: Ochi Ayame , Hardikar Ashutosh A
Published: September 2019

Penetrating trauma to the heart has a high associated mortality due to significant hemorrhage, coronary artery injury, and cardiac tamponade. Such sequelae progress rapidly, often leading to death before reaching hospital. We report a case of delayed presentation following a stab injury to the right ventricle. This case highlights the mechanisms that may facilitate a delayed presentation and the importance of appropriate investigation when suspicion of cardiac injury is high.
Reliability of revised scoring methods for the Schenkenberg Line Bisection Test with adults following stroke: Preliminary findings
Authors: Stone Andrew , Cooke Deirdre , Morton Deborah , Steele Michael
Published: September 2019

Introduction

The Schenkenberg Line Bisection Test is a brief screening tool following stroke to assess for unilateral spatial neglect. This assessment takes under five minutes to administer, but scoring using the guidelines of the original authors is lengthy and complex. This study examined the interrater, intrarater, and test–retest reliability of the test using both a brief and detailed method of scoring developed for this study that are more readily used in the clinical setting.

Method

Fifteen participants following stroke were assessed using the Schenkenberg Line Bisection Test. Assessments were scored by four occupational therapists on two separate occasions using both the brief and detailed scoring method developed for this study.

Results

Intraclass correlation coefficients obtained for interrater reliability for the brief scoring method ranged from .89 to 1, and from .82 to .95 for the detailed method. Intraclass correlation coefficients for intrarater reliability ranged from .82 to 1 for the brief method and from .72 to .99 for the detailed method. Strong agreement was observed between first and second assessments in most situations for test–retest reliability.

Conclusion

Preliminary exploration of the revised scoring methods for the Schenkenberg Line Bisection Test demonstrate high reliability and that scoring can be completed relatively quickly in clinical practice.
La terapia enzimatica sostitutiva nella malattia di Fabry
Authors: Roggero Letizia , Auricchio Sara , Pieruzzi Federico
Published: September 2019

Enzyme Replacement Therapy for Fabry Disease

Anderson-Fabry disease (FD) is a X-linked lysosomal storage disorder, which involves glycosphingolipids metabolism. Specific treatment for FD has been available in the last two decades, after the development and commercialization of recombinant human alfa-galactosidase A. Since then enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) has changed the natural history of the disease. Two different enzymatic formulations are available: agalsidase alfa and agalsidase beta at different dosages. The safety and efficacy profiles are similar. ERT induces Gb3 deposits reduction in renal and cardiac biopsies, improves quality of life, reduces pain and GI symptoms, decreases left ventricular mass and slows down renal function decline. In case of organ involvement, clinical evidence confirms the need to treat all patients with enzyme therapy, both male and female. In all other clinical settings, the decision to start ERT is controversial, because of the extremely variable clinical manifestations of FD. However, data suggest a greater response to ERT if started as early as possible in any patients. Timely treatment appears to be effective in stabilizing and possibly delaying FD progression. ERT infusion reactions due to allergic hypersensitivity or IgG antibody development could occur but can be easily managed. In-hospital and at home infusions are possible. The wide genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity observed in all FD patients requires a tailored approach to treatment options. Patients should be referred to an expert multidisciplinary team for the long term management of this challenging disease.
Skill Underutilization and Under-Skilling in Europe: The Role of Workplace Discrimination
Authors: Rafferty Anthony
Published: September 2019

This article examines the effects of discrimination based on race, ethnic background, nationality, religion, sex, age, disability and sexual orientation on skill underutilization and under-skilling in 30 European countries. People who experienced a variety of forms of workplace discrimination were more likely to report over-skilling, defined as having skills for more demanding roles than required for their job. Paradoxically, some forms of labour market discrimination were also linked to under-skilling, where people report requiring more training to fulfil their job role. The findings are explained in terms of how discrimination in the labour market can have differential impacts on access to career progression and training opportunities across organizations. Differences between self-report and statistical estimates of discrimination are observed. Broader implications for the interpretation of statistical models in discrimination research are discussed.
Transfusion on the Burma Railway: The life of Jacob Markowitz
Authors: Watkins PE , Frankland AW
Published: September 2019

At the surrender of Singapore on 15 February 1942, over 100,000 men became prisoners of the Japanese. This included many medical officers who, over the ensuing years, treated men (and some women) suffering the ravaging effects of disease, worsened by the inhumane conditions of captivity. Many medical officers stand out for their work. One in particular, Jacob Markowitz, developed a blood transfusion service, under the most extreme conditions, for the sick working as slave labour on the Burma Railway. Although he qualified 20 years before the outbreak of war, little has been written of Markowitz’s early life, or of the impact of this on his war-time contributions.
William Wallace (1860–1940): British ophthalmologist and classical music composer
Authors: Feibel Robert M
Published: September 2019

William Wallace (1860–1940) received the degrees MB, MCh, and MD from the University of Glasgow, and qualified as an ophthalmologist in 1888. Even as he was training in eye surgery, he was already composing music, and Wallace became more attracted to the ear than to the eye and abandoned medicine to become a classical music composer. He never practiced ophthalmology after 1889, except during First World War when he volunteered to serve in the Royal Army Medical Corps. He studied briefly at the Royal Academy of Music in London, but was mostly self-taught. Wallace was influenced by the music of Franz Liszt and Richard Wagner, and thus became a champion for late Romantic music. He wrote many types of music: his most successful were symphonic or tone poems. He was a playwright, music critic, translator, artist, and advocate for composers’ copyright interests in Parliament. After the War, he never again composed but held important positions in organized music such as Professor of Harmony and Composition at the Royal Academy of Music. Only about 30% of his compositions were performed or published in his lifetime, but recently, there has been increased interest in performing and recording his music.
Carl and Gerty Cori: A collaboration that changed the face of biochemistry
Authors: Rubin Ronald P
Published: September 2019

Carl Cori and Gerty Cori elucidated basic biochemical mechanisms involved in the utilization of energy by muscle and liver, first at Roswell Park Cancer Institute and then at Washington University. In 1929, they formulated the Cori cycle, the process by which glycogen is converted to glucose in liver and is then reconverted to glycogen in muscle. They later found that glycogen breakdown yielded glucose-1-phosphate (Cori ester) and lactate, key intermediates in the cycle; they also established that lactic acid provided the energy employed in muscle contraction. They later discovered phosphorylase, the enzyme that catalyzed glycogen breakdown. After purifiying and crystallizing muscle phosphorylase, they identified two forms of the enzyme and defined their respective roles in metabolic regulation. These studies emboldened other scientists to advance our knowledge of fundamental regulatory processes such as the adenylate cyclase-cyclic AMP system and enzyme phosphorylation. The Coris also built a world-renowned Department of Biochemistry at Washington University, which included seven future Nobelists. In 1947, the Coris were awarded the Nobel Prize, with Gerty Cori being the first American woman to win this prestigious honor.
John King, the Bristol surgeon and friend of artists and poets
Authors: Whitfield Michael John
Published: September 2019

The Bristol School of Artists developed between 1800 and 1840 and was a collaboration between professional and amateur artists, one of whom was Dr John King. King started his professional life in Bristol as assistant to Thomas Beddoes where one of his colleagues was Humphry Davy and the three of them worked in the Pneumatic Institute, attempting to cure tuberculosis with gases. King subsequently became a popular general practitioner in Clifton and his correspondence with patrons of art, romantic poets and his friends gives much information about the social life in Bristol in the early part of the 19th century.
Framework of Citizen-Autonomous Alliance for Elimination of Power Alienation: Rebuilt of Management (II) for New Civilization
Authors: Zongcheng Li , Dejia Li
Published: September 2019

According to the analysis of this series of papers, in the old civilized world for thousands of years, theocracies, tyrancracies and timocracies, along with the later deify-overlord’s sovereignty, party-tyrant’s sovereignty and plutocrat’s sovereignty are the major powers which dominate all things. This series of papers put forth the hierarchical analysis sequence of ontology: arche – paradigm – pattern – structure – factors, and thus the analytic framework of the ontology and its axiomatism for the power ecosphere of the world is set. For the new civilized world to be created, the recombination of interests, the reconstruction of human rights and the reengineering of sovereignty should be the basic content of the rebuilt of dynamic foundation. We should rebuild the sovereignty, with citizen’s sovereignties as the core. Thus this paper establishes the design basis of the ontological dynamics for the synthetic study of inter-discipline on the citizen-autonomous commonwealth.
A Puff of Smoke, a Hole in the Pocket, Fissure in the Lungs and Profit in Millions
Authors: Anand Manoj , Singh Jagandeep
Published: September 2019

The idea that business is a medium to deliver goods and services in lieu of profits is outmoded. The triple bottom line (profit, people and planet) approach is no longer a buzzword. It is a reality and a pressing need. There is no denying the fact that ‘corporate India’ too has embraced the philosophy of ‘doing well by doing good’. All appears hunky-dory when cash rich and highly profitable firms are hailed for being socially responsible organizations. However, at times, the situation may be ironical. An organization, seen as an epitome of altruism, is engaged in the manufacturing of a legal, albeit potentially harmful product. Any organization in the cigarette industry would fit this bill to perfection.

Business schools globally have revisited their course curriculum with increased focus on sustainability. Varun Chopra, on his day one of the MBA induction programme, has been confronted with a fundamental question: why do organizations exist? The answer to the complex question has to be examined through the lens of different stakeholders. Is there a simple answer as the interests of different stakeholders may be divergent? Scouting for an answer to this question in the cigarette industry draws attention to the need to juxtapose economic, social and environmental objectives.
Proactive risk assessment of vincristine use process in a teaching and referral hospital in Kenya and the implications
Authors: Kurgat Emmanuel K , Weru Irene , Wata David , Godman Brian , Kurdi Amanj , Guantai Anastasia N
Published: September 2019

Introduction

The chemotherapy use process is potentially risky for cancer patients. Vincristine, a “High Alert” medicine, has been associated with fatal but preventable medication errors. Consequently, there is a need to improve the use of vincristine especially in lower- and middle-income countries where there are constraints with resources and often a lack of trained personnel to administer cancer medicines. However, where there is a rising prevalence of cancer cases. These concerns can be addressed by performing proactive risk assessments using Healthcare Failure Mode Effect Analysis (HFMEA) and implementing the findings.

Methods

A multidisciplinary health team driven by pharmacists identified and evaluated potential failure modes based on a vincristine use process flow diagram using a hazard scoring matrix in a leading referral hospital in Kenya.

Results

The processes evaluated were: prescribing, preparation and dispensing, transportation and storage, administration and monitoring of the use of vincristine. Seventy-seven failure modes were identified over the three-month study period, of which 25 were classified as high risk. Thirteen were adequately covered by existing control measures while 12 including one combined mode required new strategies. Two of the failure modes were single-point weaknesses. Recommendations were subsequently made for improving the administration of vincristine.

Conclusions

HFMEA is a useful tool to identify improvements to medication safety and reduction of patient harm. The HFMEA process brings together the multidisciplinary team involved in patient care in actively identifying potential failure modes and owning the recommendations made, which are now being actively followed up in this hospital. Pharmacists are a key part of this process.
Facility and state-level factors associated with telemental health (TMH) adoption among mental health facilities in the United States
Authors: Zhao Xiaohui , Innes Kim E , Bhattacharjee Sandipan , Dwibedi Nilanjana , LeMasters Traci M , Sambamoorthi Usha
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Telemental health (TMH) is a promising approach to increase access to mental healthcare. This study examined the TMH adoption rates and associations with facility- and state-level factors among US mental health (MH) facilities.

Methods

This retrospective, cross-sectional study used linked data for 2016 from the National Mental Health Services Survey ( N = 11,833), Area Health Resources File, and national reports for broadband access and telehealth policies. The associations of facility and state-level characteristics with TMH adoption were examined with multi-level logistic regressions.

Results

Overall, 25.9% had used TMH. Having veteran affiliation [Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 18.53, 95% Confidence Interval (95%CI): 10.66–32.21] and greater Information Technology (IT) capacity [AOR(95%CI): 2.89(2.10–3.98)] were the strongest correlates of TMH adoption. Other facility characteristics associated with higher likelihood of TMH adoption were: public ownership, high patient volumes, having comprehensive MH treatments or Quality Improvement practices, having private or non-Medicaid public payers, and treating elderly patients (AORs: 1.16–2.41). TMH adoption was less likely among facilities treating more African Americans or patients with substance abuse disorders. TMH adoption varied substantially across states, with adoption more likely in states issuing special telehealth licences and those with more rural counties.

Discussion

One in four MH facilities adopted TMH in 2016. TMH adoption varied by multiple facility- and state-level factors. Our findings suggest that: legal/regulatory burden and lower facility IT capacity may discourage TMH adoption; significant racial disparities exist in TMH adoption; and there is a need to increase TMH use for substance abuse disorders.
Effect of a mindfulness intervention on patients admitted after multisystem trauma
Authors: Clement Elizabeth , Yoon Jenny , Sutherland Tala , Tsang Bonnie , Fawcett Vanessa , Kim Michael , Widder Sandy
Published: September 2019

Background

The incidence of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorders is reported to be as high as 50% in trauma patients. The perpetual negative emotions and state of mind in these disorders predisposes patients to negative mental health outcomes. Mindfulness, on the other hand, helps people to process their experience and emotions in a non-judgmental manner, and recently, there has been increased utilization of mindfulness-based therapies for the treatment of mental health conditions. This proof-of-concept study evaluates the use of a mindfulness-based online application in patients admitted to the trauma service at a Level 1 Trauma Centre.

Methods

Trauma patients who were English speaking, over the age of 18, and without brain injury or pre-existing neurocognitive disorder were included. Participants completed the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS)-21 to assess level of depression, anxiety, and stress, and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) to assess level of resiliency. Then, after 28 consecutive days of practicing mindfulness using the app ‘Stop, Breathe, and Think,’ the questionnaires were repeated and an exit survey conducted.

Results

For this study, 13 participants were enrolled, 2 withdrew, and 5 were lost to follow-up. The mean DASS-21 score at time enrollment was 16.4 and was 11.2 at follow-up ( p = 0.10). There were no differences between the level of depression and stress from enrollment to follow-up, but there was significant decrease in anxiety symptoms from 7.2 to 3.0 (<0.05). CD-RISC scores at enrollment and follow-up were 77.8 and 81 ( p = 0.23), respectively. At the time of exit interview, 67% of patients continued to use the application three to four times a week and 67% responded they plan to continue using the application. In addition, 83% of patients always or often felt better after practicing mindfulness and stated they would recommend the application to others.

Conclusions

Mindfulness shows promising potential to decrease psychological distress in trauma patients.
The effect of loop density on the tensile behavior of biaxial weft knitted composites using both experimental tests and numerical method
Authors: Hessami Reza , Alamdar Yazdi Aliasghar , Mazidi Abbas
Published: September 2019

In this study, a high-tenacity polyester was used to produce biaxial weft knitted fabric in three different loop densities. All of the composite samples were manufactured using the vacuum injection process. Epoxy resin was used as the matrix in the composite samples. Tensile tests in the course and wale directions were carried out on all samples. The results showed that the tensile strength and the elastic modulus of the composites were improved by increasing the loop density. On the other hand, multi-scale finite element modeling was employed to predict the elastic constants and the tensile strength of the composites. In this method, unit-cells of biaxial weft knitted fabrics with a script were modeled by ABAQUS finite element software in the meso scale. Periodic boundary conditions were applied to the unit-cells. Stiffness matrices of composites were calculated by a python code. In the macro model, a shell geometry was created and the elastic constants calculated from the meso scale were assigned to the macro model. The tensile strength of composites in the course and wale directions was predicted by the Tsai-Wu failure criterion equations. The numerical results had a good agreement with the experimental ones. According to the numerical results, the difference in the loop densities as the inputs data could be used and elastic constants and strength of composites in the course and wale directions could be obtained. So, this model is a useful method to predict the tensile behavior of biaxial weft knitted composites with different geometries.
Detection of additional abnormalities or co-morbidities in women with suspected intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy
Authors: Conti-Ramsden Frances , McEwan Michael , Hill Rachel , Wade Julie , Abraham Georgina , Buckeldee Olivia , Williamson Catherine , Knight Caroline L , Girling Joanna , Chappell Lucy C
Published: September 2019

Background

Current guidelines recommend viral, autoimmune, coagulation and liver ultrasound testing in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy to exclude alternative diagnoses.

Methods

Electronic health records were searched for investigations and diagnoses in women with raised bile acid concentrations (>10 µmol/L) between January 2016 and December 2017 at two UK maternity units.

Results

Five hundred and thirty-one women had a raised bile acid concentration (median (IQR): 18 (13–32 µmol/L)) at a median gestation of 35.1 (IQR 31.8–37.0) weeks. Out of 531 women, 250 (47.1%) had full virology, autoimmune and ultrasound tests, and 348 (65.5%) had coagulation performed. Positive hepatitis B and C results were previously known. No new Epstein–Barr virus, cytomegalovirus or hepatitis A diagnoses were made. There were 11 positive autoimmune results, but no new diagnoses. No woman had an unexplained prolonged prothrombin time. No ultrasound liver ( n = 38) or gallbladder ( n = 85) abnormalities were of acute clinical significance.

Conclusion

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy investigations provided no new diagnoses that influenced clinical management during pregnancy.
Ghrelin-Induced Sodium Reabsorption Is Mediated by PKA and Microtubule-Dependent αENaC Translocation in Female Rats
Authors: Kemp Brandon A , Howell Nancy L , Gildea John J , Padia Shetal H
Published: September 2019

Intrarenal ghrelin infusion activates ghrelin receptors in the kidney collecting duct (CD) to increase α epithelial sodium (Na+) channel (αENaC)-dependent Na+ reabsorption in vivo, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Seventy-two hours following uninephrectomy, 12-week-old female Sprague-Dawley rats received the following renal interstitial (RI) infusions for 1 hour after a 1-hour control: vehicle (n = 10), ghrelin (3 μg/minute; n = 8), ghrelin + phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY-294002 (0.1 μg/kg/minute; n = 7), ghrelin + protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor adenosine 3′5′-cyclic monophosphorothioate, Rp-isomer (10 μg/kg/minute; n = 8), ghrelin + microtubule polymerization inhibitor nocodazole (0.3 μg/kg/minute; n = 7), or ghrelin + actin polymerization inhibitor cytochalasin D (0.3 μg/kg/minute; n = 6). Compared with vehicle infusion, RI ghrelin induced a significant anti-natriuresis (urine Na+ excretion was reduced by 53.7% ± 6.8%; P < 0.001). This effect was abolished during concomitant PKA or microtubule inhibition (106.4% ± 9.4% and 109.7% ± 10.6% of vehicle infusion, respectively; P < 0.01 from ghrelin) but not during concomitant PI3K or actin inhibition (reduced by 48.6% ± 3.9% and 52.8% ± 12.7%, respectively; P < 0.001 and P < 0.01 from vehicle, respectively; P = not significant from ghrelin). Infusions had no effect on mean arterial pressure. Western blot analysis demonstrated that CD membrane but not total αENaC expression increased in response to ghrelin infusion compared with vehicle, (0.39 ± 0.05 vs 0.12 ± 0.02 arbitrary units; P < 0.01). This effect was abolished during PKA or microtubule inhibition but persisted during PI3K or actin inhibition. Neural precursor cell expressed, developmentally down-regulated 4 isoform 2 (Nedd4-2) dependent internalization of αENaC was not affected by ghrelin, indicating that microtubule-dependent forward trafficking of αENaC is necessary for anti-natriuretic responses to ghrelin. Taken together, these studies highlight the importance of PKA and microtubule polymerization in ghrelin-induced αENaC-mediated Na+ reabsorption.
Case Report: A case of PAI-1 4G/5G heterozygosity causing Budd-Chiari Syndrome
Authors: Sousa Domingos , Antunes Silva Sergio , Jorge Catarina , Martins Fernandes Rita , Rodrigues Ana Isabel , Viana Coelho Margarida , Guimarães Joana Filipa , Osorio Rui Marques , Morais Juvenal , Ríos Elena , Figueiredo Armindo
Published: September 2019

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a hepatic venous outﬂow obstruction. A 36-year old

Caucasian female was admitted with symptomatic hypoglycaemia. Lab tests revealed

mild leucocytosis, thrombocytopenia and hepatic cytolysis. The abdominal ultrasound showed mild hepatomegaly due to hypertrophy of the left and caudate lobes, no blood flow on the right and medium hepatic veins and multiple intra-hepatic collateral vessels. Upper endoscopy showed grade I varicose veins. Further studies ruled out common prothrombotic disorders but identified an inherited thrombophilia: a plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) 4G/5G heterozygous polymorphism. On presentation, this patient had signs of cirrhosis and secondary portal hypertension from imaging results at the time of diagnosis but no symptoms. Four years after the diagnosis the patient continues asymptomatic, which is very unusual. This patient's outcome will be favourable as long as their cirrhosis is compensated by the collateral vessels' permeability. Our case highlights a new association between primary BCS secondary to a prothrombotic inherit mutation: the PAI-1 4G/5G polymorphism.
Global network of computational biology communities: ISCB's Regional Student Groups breaking barriers
Authors: Shome Sayane , Parra R. Gonzalo , Fatima Nazeefa , Monzon Alexander Miguel , Cuypers Bart , Moosa Yumna , Coimbra Nilson Da Rocha , Assis Juliana , Giner-Delgado Carla , Dönertaş Handan Melike , Cuesta-Astroz Yesid , Saarunya Geetha , Allali Imane , Gupta Shruti , Srivastava Ambuj , Kalsan Manisha , Valdivia Catalina , J. Olguin-Orellana Gabriel , Papadimitriou Sofia , Parisi Daniele , Kristensen Nikolaj Pagh , Rib Leonor , Guebila Marouen Ben , Bauer Eugen , Zaffaroni Gaia , Bekkar Amel , Ashano Efejiro , Paladin Lisanna , Necci Marco , Moreyra Nicolás N. , Rydén Martin , Villalobos-Solís Jordan , Papadopoulos Nikolaos , Rafael Candice , Karakulak Tülay , Kaya Yasin , Gladbach Yvonne , Dhanda Sandeep Kumar , Šoštarić Nikolina , Alex Aishwarya , DeBlasio Dan , Rahman Farzana
Published: September 2019

Regional Student Groups (RSGs) of the International Society for Computational Biology Student Council (ISCB-SC) have been instrumental to connect computational biologists globally and to create more awareness about bioinformatics education. This article highlights the initiatives carried out by the RSGs both nationally and internationally to strengthen the present and future of the bioinformatics community. Moreover, we discuss the future directions the organization will take and the challenges to advance further in the ISCB-SC main mission: “Nurture the new generation of computational biologists”.
Image – écrit – traduction
Authors: Bajda Justyna
Published: September 2019

Painting – Text – Translations. Representation of the Colour Blue in Descriptions of Paintings in Art Books

Colour is a basic category for describing a painting. At the same time, it is one of the most problematic categories for an art historian who describes a real artefact as well as a translator who only works with a description of the artwork.The aim of this article is to present the terms used to refer to the colour blue that appear in descriptions of paintings reproduced in art books. The scope of the analysis was limited to French Impressionist paintings. The collected material was examined in terms of three fundamental issues:1. The functioning of two basic terms for the colour blue in the Polish language,2. The names of pigments used by Impressionist painters, and3. Descriptions of the intensity of the sky-blue colour in the French and Polish languages.