bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of E-cadherin and specific CXCR3 isoforms impact each other in prostate cancer
Authors: Ma Bo , Khazali Ahmad , Shao Hanshuang , Jiang Yuhan , Wells Alan
Published: December 2019

Background

Carcinoma cells shift between epithelial and mesenchymal phenotypes during cancer progression, as defined by surface presentation of the cell-cell cohesion molecule E-cadherin, affecting dissemination, progression and therapy responsiveness. Concomitant with the loss of E-cadherin during the mesenchymal transition, the predominant receptor isoform for ELR-negative CXC ligands shifts from CXCR3-B to CXCR3-A which turns this classical G-protein coupled receptor from an inhibitor to an activator of cell migration, thus promoting tumor cell invasiveness. We proposed that CXCR3 was not just a coordinately changed receptor but actually a regulator of the cell phenotype.

Methods

Immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time PCR and flow cytometry assays investigated the expression of E-cadherin and CXCR3 isoforms. Intrasplenic inoculation of human prostate cancer (PCa) cells with spontaneous metastasis to the liver analyzed E-cadherin and CXCR3-B expression during cancer progression in vivo.

Results

We found reciprocal regulation of E-cadherin and CXCR3 isoforms. E-cadherin surface expression promoted CXCR3-B presentation on the cell membrane, and to a lesser extent increased its mRNA and total protein levels. In turn, forced expression of CXCR3-A reduced E-cadherin expression level, whereas CXCR3-B increased E-cadherin in PCa. Meanwhile, a positive correlation of E-cadherin and CXCR3-B expression was found both in experimental PCa liver micro-metastases and patients’ tissue.

Conclusions

CXCR3-B and E-cadherin positively correlated in vitro and in vivo in PCa cells and liver metastases, whereas CXCR3-A negatively regulated E-cadherin expression. These results suggest that CXCR3 isoforms may play important roles in cancer progression and dissemination via diametrically regulating tumor’s phenotype.
Kohdista: an efficient method to index and query possible Rmap alignments
Authors: Muggli Martin D. , Puglisi Simon J. , Boucher Christina
Published: December 2019

Background

Genome-wide optical maps are ordered high-resolution restriction maps that give the position of occurrence of restriction cut sites corresponding to one or more restriction enzymes. These genome-wide optical maps are assembled using an overlap-layout-consensus approach using raw optical map data, which are referred to as Rmaps. Due to the high error-rate of Rmap data, finding the overlap between Rmaps remains challenging.

Results

We present Kohdista, which is an index-based algorithm for finding pairwise alignments between single molecule maps (Rmaps). The novelty of our approach is the formulation of the alignment problem as automaton path matching, and the application of modern index-based data structures. In particular, we combine the use of the Generalized Compressed Suffix Array (GCSA) index with the wavelet tree in order to build Kohdista. We validate Kohdistaon simulatedE. colidata, showing the approach successfully finds alignments between Rmaps simulated from overlapping genomic regions.

Conclusion

we demonstrate Kohdistais the only method that is capable of finding a significant number of high quality pairwise Rmap alignments for large eukaryote organisms in reasonable time.
Angle of approach to the superior rotator cuff of arthroscopic instruments depends on the acromial morphology: an experimental study in 3D printed human shoulders
Authors: Hoessly Menduri , Bouaicha Samy , Jentzsch Thorsten , Meyer Dominik C.
Published: December 2019

Background

Portal placement is a key factor for the success of arthroscopic procedures, particularly in rotator cuff repair. We hypothesize that the acromial anatomy may strongly determine the position of the shoulder bony landmarks and limit the surgeon’s freedom to position the arthroscopic approaches in direction towards the acromion. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relation between different acromial shapes and the freedom of movement of arthroscopic instruments relative to the rotator cuff from standardized arthroscopic portals in a laboratory study on 3D shoulder models.

Methods

3D models of shoulders with a broad range of different acromial shapes were printed using CT and MRI scans. Angles from the portals to defined points on the rotator cuff and the supraglenoid tubercle were measured. In conventional radiographs, the critical shoulder angle, the scapular body acromial angle, and the glenoid acromial angle were measured and compared with the measured angles to the rotator cuff.

Results

There was a large variation of angles of approach of instruments to the rotator cuff between the seven shoulders for each portal. From the joint line portal and the posterior edge portal, the biggest angles were measured to the posterior cuff. From the intermediate portal, the angles were largest to the intermediate rotator cuff and from the anterior portals to the anterior cuff. To the supraglenoid tubercle, best access was from anterior. For all portals, there was a big correlation between the glenoid acromial angle and the scapular body acromial angle with the angles of approach to the tendon and especially to the supraglenoid tubercle.

Conclusion

The access to the rotator cuff from almost every portal is influenced by the acromial shape. As hypothesized, a small (small GAA) and flat (big SBAA) acromion provide an easier approach to the rotator cuff from almost every portal. Therefore, it may severely influence the instruments maneuverability.
Virulence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus modulated by the YycFG two-component pathway in a rat model of osteomyelitis
Authors: Wu Shizhou , Liu Yunjie , Lei Lei , Zhang Hui
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains present an urgent medical problem in osteomyelitis cases. Our previous study indicated that the YycFG two-component regulatory pathway is associated with the bacterial biofilm organization of MRSA strains. The aim of this study was to investigate the regulatory roles of ASyycG in the bacterial biofilm formation and the pathogenicity of MRSA strains using an antisense RNA strategy.

Methods

An ASyycG-overexpressing MRSA clinical isolate was constructed. The bacterial growth was monitored, and the biofilm biomass on bone specimens was examined using scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Furthermore, quantitative RT-PCR (QRT-PCR) analysis was used to measure the expression of yycF/G/H and icaA/D in the MRSA and ASyycG strains. The expression of the YycG protein was quantified by Western blot assays. We validated the role of ASyycG in the invasive ability and pathogenicity of the strains in vivo using histology and peptide nucleic acid fluorescent in situ hybridization.

Results

The results showed that overexpression of ASyycG lead to a reduction in biofilm formation and exopolysaccharide (EPS) synthesis compared to the control MRSA strains. The ASyycG strains exhibited decreased expression of the yycF/G/H and icaA/D genes. Furthermore, Western blot data showed that the production of the YycG protein was inhibited in the ASyycG strains. In addition, we demonstrated that ASyycG suppressed the invasive ability and pathogenicity of the strain in vivo using an SPF (specific pathogen free) rat model.

Conclusion

In summary, the overexpression of ASyycG leads to a reduction in biofilm formation and bacterial pathogenicity in vivo, which provides a potential target for the management of MRSA-induced osteomyelitis.
Active dispersal of Aedes albopictus: a mark-release-recapture study using self-marking units
Authors: Vavassori Laura , Saddler Adam , Müller Pie
Published: December 2019

Background

Understanding the dispersal dynamics of invasive mosquito species is fundamental to improve vector surveillance and to target control efforts.Aedes albopictushas been deemed a poor flyer as its range of active dispersal is generally assumed to be limited to a few hundred metres, while laboratory studies suggest this mosquito could actually fly several kilometres. The discrepancy may be due to differences in the local environment or to the methodological approach. In Switzerland,Ae. albopictushas been present since 2003 and has since then expanded its range. While passive dispersal is a key driver, it remains unclear how far this mosquito spreads through active flight and what the age structure and size of the local population are, all important parameters for vector surveillance and control.

Method

We investigated the active dispersal, daily survival rate and population size ofAe. albopictusin mark-release-recapture studies in Coldrerio and Lugano, two areas of intensive control in Switzerland. To mark mosquitoes emerging from breeding sites, we used self-marking units with fluorescent pigment that have minimal impact on mosquito survival and behaviour. We recaptured the adult mosquitoes with BG-Sentinel traps within a radius of 1 km from the marking units over 22 consecutive days.

Results

We found that 77.5% of the recapturedAe. albopictusindividuals flew further than 250 m, the limit that is usually deemed sufficient for vector containment. The average age of females and males was 8.6 days and 7.8 days in Coldrerio and Lugano, respectively, while the estimated mosquito population densities were 134 mosquitoes/ha in Coldrerio and 767 mosquitoes/ha in Lugano.

Conclusions

Self-marking units are an effective tool to mark wild mosquitoes. Using this approach, we found that mosquitoes survive long enough to potentially transmit arboviral disease in our study area and that host-seekingAe. albopictusfemales may travel further than previously assumed for European mosquito populations. This finding has direct implications for vector control as emergency treatments around positive cases, as well as surveillance and control around detections of new infestations, might need to be extended beyond the usual recommended range of just a few hundred metres.
Management of delivery of a fetus with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease: a case report of abdominal dystocia and review of the literature
Authors: Belin Sarah , Delco Cristina , Parvex Paloma , Hanquinet Sylviane , Fokstuen Siv , Martinez de Tejada Begoña , Eperon Isabelle
Published: December 2019

Background

Autosomal recessive renal polycystic kidney disease occurs in 1 in 20,000 live births. It is caused by mutations in both alleles of the PKHD1 gene. Management of delivery in cases of suspected autosomal recessive renal polycystic kidney disease is rarely discussed, and literature concerning abdominal dystocia is extremely scarce. We present a case of a patient with autosomal recessive renal polycystic kidney disease whose delivery was complicated by abdominal dystocia, and we discuss the factors that determined the route and timing of delivery.

Case presentation

A 23-year-old Caucasian woman, G2 P0, with a prior unremarkable pregnancy was referred to our tertiary center at 31 weeks of gestation because of severe oligoamnios (amniotic fluid index = 2) and hyperechogenic, dedifferentiated, and enlarged fetal kidneys. She had no other genitourinary anomaly. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging showed enlarged, hypersignal kidneys and severe pulmonary hypoplasia. We had a high suspicion of autosomal recessive renal polycystic kidney disease, and after discussion with our multidisciplinary team, the parents opted for conservative care. Ultrasound performed at 35 weeks of gestation showed a fetal estimated weight of 3550 g and an abdominal circumference of 377 mm, both above the 90th percentile. Because of the very rapid kidney growth and suspected risk of abdominal dystocia, we proposed induction of labor at 36 weeks of gestation after corticosteroid administration for fetal lung maturation. Vaginal delivery was complicated by abdominal dystocia, which resolved by continuing expulsive efforts and gentle fetal traction. A 3300-g (P50–90) male infant was born with Apgar scores of 1-7-7 at 1, 5, and 10 minutes, respectively, and arterial and venous umbilical cord pH values of 7.23–7.33. Continuous peritoneal dialysis was started at day 2 of life because of anuria. Currently, the infant is 1 year old and is waiting for kidney transplant that should be performed once he reaches 10 kg. Molecular analysis of PKHD1 performed on deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) from the umbilical cord confirmed autosomal recessive renal polycystic kidney disease.

Conclusions

Management of delivery in cases of suspected autosomal recessive renal polycystic kidney disease needs to be discussed because of the risk of abdominal dystocia. The route and timing of delivery depend on the size of the fetal abdominal circumference and the gestational age. The rate of kidney growth must also be taken into account.
Phytosynthesis of BiVO4 nanorods using Hyphaene thebaica for diverse biomedical applications
Authors: Mohamed Hamza Elsayed Ahmed , Afridi Shakeeb , Khalil Ali Talha , Zohra Tanzeel , Alam Muhammad Masroor , Ikram Aamir , Shinwari Zabta Khan , Maaza Malik
Published: December 2019

Biosynthesis of bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) nanorods was performed using dried fruit extracts of Hyphaene thebaica as a cost effective reducing and stabilizing agent. XRD, DRS, FTIR, zeta potential, Raman, HR-SEM, HR-TEM, EDS and SAED were used to study the main physical properties while the biological properties were established by performing diverse assays. The zeta potential is reported as − 5.21 mV. FTIR indicated Bi–O and V–O vibrations at 640 cm−1 and 700 cm−1/1120 cm−1. Characteristic Raman modes were observed at 166 cm−1, 325 cm−1 and 787 cm−1. High resolution scanning and transmission electron micrographs revealed a rod like morphology of the BiVO4. Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumonia, Fusarium solani indicated highest susceptibility to the different doses of BiVO4 nanorods. Significant protein kinase inhibition is reported for BiVO4 nanorods which suggests their potential anticancer properties. The nanorods revealed good DPPH free radical scavenging potential (48%) at 400 µg/mL while total antioxidant capacity of 59.8 µg AAE/mg was revealed at 400 µg/mL. No antiviral activity is reported on sabin like polio virus. Overall excellent biological properties are reported. We have shown that green synthesis can replace well established processes for synthesizing BiVO4 nanorods.
On a class of analytic functions associated to a complex domain concerning q-differential-difference operator
Authors: Ibrahim Rabha W. , Darus Maslina
Published: December 2019

In our current investigation, we apply the idea of quantum calculus and the convolution product to amend a generalized Salagean q-differential operator. By considering the new operator and the typical version of the Janowski function, we designate definite new classes of analytic functions in the open unit disk. Significant properties of these modules are considered, and recurrent sharp consequences and geometric illustrations are realized. Applications are considered to find the existence of solutions of a new class of q-Briot–Bouquet differential equations.
Global dynamics of a general diffusive HBV infection model with capsids and adaptive immune response
Authors: Elaiw A. M. , Al Agha A. D.
Published: December 2019

This paper studies the global dynamics of a general diffusive hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection model. The model includes both enveloped viruses and DNA containing capsids. Two immune responses are recruited to attack the virus and infected hepatocytes. These are the cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTL) which kill the infected liver cells, and B cells which send antibodies to attack the virus. The non-negativity and boundedness of the solutions are discussed. The existence of spatially homogeneous equilibrium points is examined. The global stability of all possible equilibrium points is proved by choosing suitable Lyapunov functionals. Some numerical simulations are performed to enhance the theoretical results and present the behavior of solutions in space and time.
Effectiveness of peer review as cooperative web-based learning method applied out-of-class in a role playing game: A case study by quasi-experimental approach
Authors: Friedrich Daniel
Published: December 2019

Education at universities requires a high proportion of self-study supported by instruments which motivate students to deepen their knowledge with case studies and training software. The gain in learning is higher when what is learned is reflected by others in a cooperative process. The Class Peer Review (CPR) requires from students to evaluate each other but lecturers lose a lot of time when applying it during the lecture. Research on CPR shows many different approaches to how this method should be carried out effectively and many of them still demand a high presence of the lecturer. In contrast to most studies, this article reports the results of a CPR conducted outside the classroom and assisted by a web-supported role playing game representing a publisher where a common online class journal is used as an incentive and motivational element. The effectiveness of CPR was examined by means of a quasi-experimental study. It turned out that the experimental group used the training software significantly more frequently in addition to the lecture materials and a meaningful increase in group dynamics was recorded. Also female students were more motivated to continue this type of group work in the future. Final grades were better under CPR conditions, but the effect was statistically weak. Basically, the CPR method seems to be an effective tool to extend problem-based teaching to the self-learning phase if practiced in combinaktion with a role play and fictive Class-Journals as incentive. This provides further potential to e-learning instruments.
Exploring knowledge graphs for the identification of concept prerequisites
Authors: Manrique Rubén , Pereira Bernardo , Mariño Olga
Published: December 2019

Learning basic concepts before complex ones is a natural form of learning. Automated systems and instructional designers evaluate and order concepts’ complexity to successfully generate and recommend or adapt learning paths. This paper addresses the specific challenge of accurately and adequately identifying concept prerequisites using semantic web technologies for a basic understanding of a particular concept within the context of learning: given a target conceptc, the goals are to (a) find candidate concepts that serve as possible prerequisite forc; and, (b) evaluate the prerequisite relation between the target and candidates concepts via a supervised learning model. Our four step approach consists of (i) an exploration of Knowledge Graphs in order to identify possible candidate concepts; (ii) the creation of a set of potential concepts; (iii) deployment of supervised learning model to evaluate a proposed list of prerequisite relationships regarding the target set; and, (iv) validation of our approaching using a ground truth of 80 concepts from different domains (with a precision varying between 76% and 96%).
Complete resection of local advanced thymic carcinoma with total aortic arch replacement after chemotherapy: a case report
Authors: Kuno Hidenori , Funaki Soichiro , Kimura Kenji , Shimamura Kazuo , Kin Keiwa , Kuratani Toru , Sawa Yoshiki , Shintani Yasushi
Published: December 2019

Background

Although complete surgical resection of thymic carcinoma is a prognostic factor, it is not always an option for advanced tumors because of locoregional invasion. Extended surgery combined with a major blood vessel procedure remains controversial because of the increased risk of mortality.

Case presentation

Chest computed tomography (CT) uncovered an abnormal shadow in the mediastinum of a 74-year-old man. An irregularly shaped tumor obstructed the left innominate vein, and invasion of the aortic arch was suspected. A CT-guided percutaneous needle biopsy revealed squamous cell carcinoma of the thymus, which was considered unresectable. The patient underwent chemotherapy elsewhere, then was referred to us for surgical resection. We combined extended surgery with total aortic arch replacement under a cardiopulmonary bypass. Complete resection was achieved, and the patient remains alive without recurrence at 3 years after surgery

Conclusion

Resection including aortic arch replacement might be an option that can achieve complete resection of local advanced thymic carcinoma.
Antibiotics and antifungals in silicone oil
Authors: Leung Ella H. , Stout J. Timothy
Published: December 2019

Background

Antimicrobials may be injected into silicone oil-filled eyes with endophthalmitis, but the interaction with oil is unclear. The purpose of the experiment is to determine whether vancomycin, amikacin, and amphotericin B mix with silicone oil.

Methods

Using the relative proportions of the human eye, 4 ml of 1000 centistokes silicone oil was centrifuged with 0.1 ml of vancomycin 1 mg/0.1 ml, amikacin 0.4 mg/0.1 ml, or amphotericin B 5 µg/0.1 ml in vitro and eluted. The aqueous was immediately analyzed with a liquid chromatographer/mass spectrometer and after 24 h.

Results

Within 24 h, a mean of 26.9 μmol/L of vancomycin, 0 nmol/L of amikacin, and 0 nmol/L of amphotericin B were recovered. When the concentrations of amikacin and amphotericin B were increased 100-fold, 0 nmol/L of amikacin and 75.7 µmol/L of amphotericin B were recovered.

Conclusions

Vancomycin and amphotericin B partially mixed with the silicone oil. Amikacin was not recovered from the antibiotic–silicone oil mixture.
Risk-based approach to develop a national residue program: prioritizing the residue control of veterinary drugs in fishery products
Authors: Kang Hui-Seung , Han Songyi , Cho Byung-Hoon , Lee Hunjoo
Published: December 2019

Veterinary drugs are widely used to protect production-related diseases and promote the growth of farmed fish. The use of large amounts of veterinary drugs may have potential risk and cause adverse effects on both humans and the environment. In this study, we developed risk-based ranking based on a scoring system to be applied in the national residue program. In this approach, the following three factors of veterinary drugs that may occur as residues in fishery products were considered: potency (acceptable daily intake), usage (number of dose and withdrawal period), and residue occurrence. The overall ranking score was calculated using the following equation: potency × usage (sum of the number of sales and withdrawal period) × residue occurrence. The veterinary drugs that were assigned high score by applying this approach were enrofloxacin, amoxicillin, oxolinic acid, erythromycin, and trimethoprim. The risk-based approach for monitoring veterinary drugs can provide a reliable inspection priority in fishery products. The developed ranking system can be applied in web-based systems and residue-monitoring programs and to ensure safe management of fishery products in Korea.
Performance study and economic analysis of photo-voltaic thermal system under real-life thermal loads in tropical climate
Authors: Somasundaram Sivanand , Tay Andrew A. O.
Published: December 2019

The paper describes the implementation of a photo-voltaic thermal (PVT) system for a student hostel located in Singapore to cater for hot water requirements of the hostel and a part of electricity requirement. Real-time data monitoring was carried out by extensive instrumentation and data logging. Two different types of PVT collectors (glazed and unglazed) were used. Experimental results of performance of the individual collector arrays (thermal and photo-voltaic efficiency) along with the system overall efficiency are reported for a one-year period. Finally, an economic analysis of a typical PVT system for tropical climates is carried out and results are presented in the form of internal rate of return, net present value and payback period. PVT appears as a favourable technology in space starved areas like urban cities.
Ultrasound measurement of fetal abdominal subcutaneous tissue thickness as a predictor of large versus small fetuses for gestational age
Authors: Khalifa Esraa A. , Hassanein Shaimaa A. , Eid Hazem H.
Published: December 2019

Background

Commonly used ultrasound fetal weight estimation formulas show variable degrees of error which is more evident in fetuses with nutritional and metabolic issues; better accuracy of fetal weight estimation can be obtained by incorporation of fetal soft tissue parameters like the fetal subcutaneous tissue in the weight estimation process. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of fetal abdominal subcutaneous tissue thickness (FASTT) as an indicator of fetal birth weight.

Results

FASTT showed a high significant statistical correlation with fetal birth weight (r = 0.94, P value = 0.00); it showed higher sensitivity for large for gestational age (LGA) than small for gestational age (SGA) (90.9% and 86.9%, respectively). The best cutoff value for the detection of LGA was ≥ 9.2 mm and ≤ 4.5 for SGA. FASTT showed lower accuracy than abdominal circumference (AC) as an indicator of LGA (92% versus 96%, respectively). Used alone, FASTT is less sensitive than Hadlock formula in both LGA and SGA (90.9% versus 94.5% in LGA and 86.9% versus 88.9% for SGA, respectively). There was no statistical correlation between FASTT and mode of delivery (r = 0.09, P value = 0.23) nor fetal gender (r = 0.15, P value = 0.11)

Conclusion

FASTT is a good indicator of fetal birth weight especially LGA, yet it is less sensitive than AC in the prediction of LGA. It cannot be used as a predictor of mode of delivery and not affected by fetal gender.
Sequencing of Androgen-Deprivation Therapy With External-Beam Radiotherapy in Localized Prostate Cancer: A Phase III Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Malone Shawn , Roy Soumyajit , Eapen Libni , E Choan , MacRae Robert , Perry Gad , Bowen Julie , Samant Rajiv , Morgan Scott , Craig Julia , Malone Kyle , Grimes Scott
Published: December 2019

PURPOSE

Dose-escalated radiotherapy (RT) with androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) is a standard definitive treatment of localized prostate cancer (LPCa). The optimal sequencing of these therapies is unclear. Our phase III trial compared neoadjuvant versus concurrent initiation of ADT in combination with dose-escalated prostate RT (PRT).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with newly diagnosed LPCa with Gleason score ≤ 7, clinical stage T1b to T3a, and prostate-specific antigen < 30 ng/mL were randomly allocated to neoadjuvant and concurrent ADT for 6 months starting 4 months before RT (neoadjuvant group) or concurrent and adjuvant ADT for 6 months starting simultaneously with RT (concurrent group). The primary end point was biochemical relapse-free survival (bRFS). Stratified log-rank test was used to compare bRFS and overall survival (OS). Incidence of grade ≥ 3 late RT-related toxicities was compared by log-rank test.

RESULTS

Overall, 432 patients were randomly assigned to the neoadjuvant (n = 215) or concurrent group (n = 217). At 10 years, bRFS rates for the two groups were 80.5% and 87.4%, respectively. Ten-year OS rates were 76.4% and 73.7%, respectively. There was no significant difference in bRFS ( P = .10) or OS ( P = .70) between the two groups. Relative to the neoadjuvant group, the hazard ratio for the concurrent group was 0.66 (95% CI, 0.41 to 1.07) for bRFS and 0.94 (95% CI, 0.68 to 1.30) for OS. No significant difference was observed in the 3-year incidence of late RT-related grade ≥ 3 GI (2.5% v 3.9%) or genitourinary toxicity (2.9% v 2.9%).

CONCLUSION

In our study, there was no statistically significant difference in bRFS between the two treatment groups. Similarly, no difference was seen in OS or late RT-related toxicities. On the basis of these results, both neoadjuvant and concurrent initiations of short-term ADT with dose-escalated PRT are reasonable standards of care for LPCa.
To dystrophin and beyond: an interview with Louis Kunkel
Authors: Kunkel Louis M.
Published: December 2019

Louis Kunkel has devoted his career to understanding the causes, mechanisms and treatment of muscular dystrophies. Dr Kunkel is the past Director of the Genomics Program at Boston Children's Hospital and Professor of Genetics and Pediatrics at Harvard Medical School. In this interview, he talks about his discovery of dystrophin, including patients in preclinical research, and bearded irises.
Photoactivation of Organotellurium Compounds in Precision Polymer Synthesis: Controlled Radical Polymerization and Radical Coupling Reactions
Authors: Yamago Shigeru
Published: December 2019

Organotellurium chain transfer agents (CTAs) used for organotellurium-mediated radical polymerization (TERP) are highly photosensitive and generate radicals by carbon-tellurium bond homolysis upon absorbing UV-vis light at approximately 350–500 nm. The controlled radical polymerization of various vinyl monomers takes place in the presence of organotellurium CTAs under photoirradiation. The use of low-intensity light is important to attain structural control because of the need to maintain a low radical concentration. Photo-TERP not only preserves the synthetic advantages of TERP under thermal conditions, as exemplified by its high versatility in polymerizable monomer families, but also attains new benefits, including decreasing the amount of dead polymers, increasing the control of the macromolecular structure, lowering the polymerization temperature, and providing temporal control. In contrast, irradiation of a polymer prepared by TERP in the presence of dienes and styrenes with high-intensity light selectively gives the dimer via a polymer-end radical coupling reaction. Various symmetrical telechelic and mid-chain-functionalized polymers and ABA-triblock copolymers can be synthesized. Due to the mild conditions for both photo-TERP and the coupling reaction, unique macromolecular structures, and high structural control, these methods provide a new method in macromolecular engineering for fabricating functional polymer materials with improved and/or new functions.
Effect of gastric residual volume monitoring on incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in mechanically ventilated patients admitted to intensive care unit
Authors: Faramarzi Elnaz , Mahmoodpoor Ata , Hamishehkar Hadi , Shadvar Kamran , Iranpour Afshin , Sabzevari Tara , Sanaie Sarvin
Published: December 2019

Objectives: The value of gastric residual volume (GRV) monitoring in ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) has frequently been questioned in the past years. In this trial, the effect of GRV on the frequency of VAP was evaluated in critically ill patients under mechanical ventilation.

Methods: This descriptive study was carried out on 150 adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit over a 14-month period, from October 2015 to January 2017. GRV was measured every three hours, and gastric intolerance was defined as GRV>250 cc. The incidence of vomiting and VAP, GRV, length of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay, APACHE II and SOFA scores, and mortality rate were noted.

Results: The mean APACHEII and SOFA scores, ICU length of stay, and duration of mechanical ventilation in the GRV>250ml group were significantly higher than in the GRV≤250 ml group (P<0.05). Also, a significantly higher number of patients in the GRV>250ml group experienced infection (62.3%) and vomiting (71.7%) compared with the GRV≤250 group (P<0.01). The highest OR was observed for SOFA score >15 and APACHE II >30, which increased the risk of GVR>250 ml by 10.09 (1.01-99.97) and 8.78 (1.49-51.58), respectively. Moreover, the increase in GVR was found to be higher in the non-survivor than in the survivor group.

Conclusion: Increased GRV did not result in increased rates of VAP, ICU length of stay, and mortality. Therefore, the routine measurement of GRV as an important element of the VAP prevention bundle is not recommended in critically ill patients.

How to cite this:

Faramarzi E, Mahmoodpoor A, Hamishehkar H, Shadvar K, Iranpour A, Sabzevari T, et al. Effect of gastric residual volume monitoring on incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in mechanically ventilated patients admitted to intensive care unit. Pak J Med Sci. 2020;36(1):---------. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.36.1.1321

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Multilingualism and strategic planning for HIV/AIDS-related health care and communication
Authors: Batchelor Kathryn , Yoda Lalbila Aristide , Sanon Ouattara Féridjou Emilie Georgette , Hellewell Olivia
Published: December 2019

Background: Many lower and middle income countries (LMICs) have high levels of linguistic diversity, meaning that health information and care is not available in the languages spoken by the majority of the population. This research investigates the extent to which language needs are taken into account in planning for HIV/AIDS-related health communication in development contexts.

Methods: We analysed all HIV/AIDS-related policy documents and reports available via the websites of the Department for International Development UK, The Global Fund, and the Ministries of Health and National AIDS commissions of Burkina Faso, Ghana and Senegal. We used quantitative and qualitative analysis to assess the level of prominence given to language issues, ascertain the level at which mentions occur (donor/funder/national government or commission), and identify the concrete plans for interlingual communication cited in the documents.

Results: Of the 314 documents analysed, 35 mention language or translation, but the majority of the mentions are made in passing or in the context of providing background socio-cultural information, the implications of which are not explored. At donor level (DFID), no mentions of language issues were found. Only eight of the documents (2.5%) outline concrete actions for addressing multilingualism in HIV/AIDS-related health communication. These are limited to staff training for sign language, and the production of multilingual resources for large-scale sensitization campaigns.

Conclusions: The visibility of language needs in formal planning and reporting in the context of HIV/AIDS-related health care is extremely low. Whilst this low visibility should not be equated to a complete absence of translation or interpreting activity on the ground, it is likely to result in insufficient resources being dedicated to addressing language barriers. Further research is needed to fully understand the ramifications of the low prominence given to questions of language, not least in relation to its impact on gender equality.
ПРОФИЛАКТИЧЕСКИЕ РЕКОМЕНДАЦИИ ПО СНИЖЕНИЮ РИСКА ВОЗНИКНОВЕНИЯ ПРОКРАСТИНАЦИИ ЛИЧНОСТИ У СТАРШЕКЛАССНИКОВ
Authors: Malyshev Ivan Viktorovich
Published: December 2019

В статье рассматривается проблематика прокрастинации личности на примере учащихся старших классов. Обобщены полученные ранее результаты, которые свидетельствуют о высоких рисках формирования прокрастинации среди старшеклассников. Подготовлен ряд рекомендаций по снижение прокрастинации у учащихся. Приводятся основные принципы и составляющие программы социально-психологического тренинга, направленного на раннюю профилактику явления прокрастинации.
Cost-effectiveness of TLC-sucrose octasulfate versus control dressings in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Lobmann Ralf , Augustin Matthias , Lawall Holger , Tigges Wolfgang , Potempa Christoph , Thiem Helena , Fietz Cornelia , Rychlik Reinhard PT
Published: December 2019

Objective:

Diabetes is one of the most widespread diseases in Germany. Common complications are diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), which are associated with a cost-intensive treatment and serious adverse events, such as infections, amputations. This cost-effectiveness analysis compares two treatment options for patients with DFU: a TLC-NOSF dressing versus a neutral dressing, assessed through a European double-blind randomised controlled trial (RCT), Explorer.

Methods:

The evaluation of the clinical outcomes was associated to direct costs (costs for dressings, nursing time, hospitalisation etc.) of both dressings, from the perspective of the statutory health insurance in Germany. Due to the long mean healing time of a DFU, the observation period was extended from 20 to 100 weeks in a Markov model.

Results:

After 20 weeks, and with complete closure as a primary endpoint, the model revealed direct treatment costs for DFU of €2,864.21 when treated with a TLC-NOSF dressing compared with €2,958.69 with the neutral control dressing (cost-effectiveness: €6,017.25 versus €9,928.49). In the Markov model (100 weeks) the costs for the TLC-NOSF dressing were €5,882.87 compared with €8,449.39 with the neutral dressing (cost-effectiveness: €6,277.58 versus €10,375.56). The robustness of results was underlined by several sensitivity analyses for varying assumptions. The frequency of weekly dressing changes had the most significant influence in terms of parameter uncertainty.

Conclusion:

Overall, the treatment of DFU with a TLC-NOSF dressing is supported from a health economic perspective, because both the treatment costs and the cost-effectiveness were superior compared with the neutral wound dressing.
GESTÃO DO DESEMPENHO NA ADMINISTRAÇÃO PÚBLICA FEDERAL: o caso do Instituto Nacional do Seguro Social (INSS)
Authors: Almeida Katiana Diniz , Barbosa Maria de Fátima Nóbrega
Published: December 2019

Este artigo teve como objetivo verificar em que medida o sistema de avaliação de desempenho do  INSS tem favorecido o desempenho institucional, tendo adotado, portanto, a estratégia de estudo de caso. Para coleta de dados, procedeu-se uma pesquisa documental e de dados primários, tendo sido aplicado um survey aos Gestores das Seções Operacionais de Gestão de Pessoas (SOGP), atores relevantes neste processo, visando identificar suas percepções em relação ao processo desenvolvido no INSS, ao método utilizado e aos usos das informações geradas pelas Avaliações de Desempenho. Os resultados apontam para o esgotamento do sistema de Avaliação de Desempenho Individual, que além de apresentar fragilidades metodológicas, é invalidado por aspectos culturais e intrínsecos à instituição, pois 99,4% dos servidores obtém a pontuação máxima na Avaliação de Desempenho. Além disso, as informações geradas não têm sido úteis para prover capacitações, nem a aplicação de pessoal de forma efetiva.
PROXIMIDADE COGNITIVA: Lidando com a Sobreposição e Inconsistência do Conceito
Authors: Teixeira Eduardo Kunzel , Oliveira Mírian
Published: December 2019

A partir da década de 1990 os estudos sobre aglomerações econômicas passaram a enfatizar a percepção da proximidade como algo multidimensional. Pesquisas publicadas nas áreas da geografia econômica, economia, gestão e teoria organizacional começaram a investigar as dinâmicas econômicas localizadas usando frameworks de proximidade multidimensional. O presente estudo discute o conceito de proximidade cognitiva – uma das dimensões de proximidade – e sua relação com outros conceitos usados para representar ideias de proximidade multidimensional. A proposta do presente artigo para tratar o conceito de proximidade cognitiva permite identificar sua conexão com a pesquisa pregressa, bem como situar esta forma de proximidade não geográfica em relação aos outros conceitos de proximidade multidimensional abordados. O artigo também sugere formas de operacionalizar o conceito de proximidade cognitiva em medidas de complexidade pequena, média e elevada.
UNIVERSIDADE CORPORATIVA E RETENÇÃO DE LÍDERES NO CONTEXTO HOSPITALAR
Authors: Mauricio Andressa Caroline de Oliveira , Vieira Almir Martins , Bido Diógenes de Souza
Published: December 2019

Este estudo teve o objetivo de identificar a contribuição da universidade corporativa (UC) para a retenção de líderes em uma unidade de terapia intensiva de uma instituição hospitalar do ABC paulista. A pesquisa assumiu abordagem qualitativa, sendo entrevistados sete líderes com atuação na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI). Os resultados mostraram que existe clara colaboração das ações da UC para a atuação do líder junto às suas equipes, tendo como principais fatores de contribuição da educação corporativa para a carreira a avaliação de desempenho, os recursos para aprimoramento no relacionamento interpessoal e um forte destaque ao programa de desenvolvimento de líderes. Por fim, o estudo apontou que a UC da instituição pesquisada contribui para a retenção dos líderes da UTI. Evidencia-se, portanto, contribuição para pesquisas sobre esse tema que, em geral, consideram a UC apenas como forma de desenvolver competências profissionais e promover o desempenho organizacional ou a implementação de estratégias.
PRÁTICAS DE RESPONSABILIDADE SOCIOAMBIENTAL E O DESEMPENHO EM PEQUENAS E MÉDIAS EMPRESAS BRASILEIRAS
Authors: Paiva Luis Eduardo Brandão , Araujo Francisca Juliana de Andrade , De Luca Márcia Martins Mendes , Vasconcelos Alessandra Carvalho de
Published: December 2019

Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a associação entre as práticas de responsabilidade socioambiental e o desempenho econômico em pequenas e médias empresas brasileiras. Tratou-se de uma pesquisa de natureza descritiva, quantitativa e documental. Os dados foram obtidos por meio da análise dos websites institucionais das 100 PMEs que mais crescem no Brasil. Para a amostra com 94 empresas, foram aplicadas técnicas de análise estatística dos dados, como estatística descritiva, inferencial e Análise de Correspondência. Os resultados apontaram que as empresas demonstram maior preocupação em evidenciar as práticas de responsabilidade social. Além disso, constatou-se uma associação entre as empresas que mais destacaram as práticas de responsabilidade socioambiental em seus websites institucionais, direcionados ao planejamento estratégico, e um alto e médio-alto desempenho econômico; e também que as empresas que evidenciaram em seus websites alguma premiação relacionada às práticas de responsabilidade socioambiental tiveram, então, desempenho econômico superior ao das demais.
REDES FORMAIS E INFORMAIS ENTRE ESTUDANTES UNIVERSITÁRIOS: Uma análise e comparação de suas estruturas gerais, similaridades e diferenças
Authors: Andreoli Taís Pasquotto , Leonardo Sandra Bergamini , Farina Milton Carlos , De Lima Ana Boteon
Published: December 2019

O trabalho teve como objetivo analisar e comparar as redes sociais de amizade pessoal (informal) e de colaboração profissional (formal) de duas turmas de alunos universitários dos cursos de Administração e Contabilidade, segundo suas percepções e de acordo com a importância do relacionamento que eles conferem a si mesmos. Para que isso fosse possível, o trabalho realizou uma revisão da literatura focada nas bases conceituais de redes sociais, redes formais e informais e na análise de redes sociais. O procedimento metodológico adotado foi uma pesquisa de estudo de campo, realizada por meio da análise de redes sociais, que tem foco estrutural, compreendendo tanto sua perspectiva macro quanto micro. Foram utilizadas as medidas de centralidade (de grau, intermediação e proximidade) e as medidas estruturais (densidade e reciprocidade). Com isso, foi possível compreender as estruturas gerais das redes das duas turmas analisadas, identificando as similaridades e diferenças em relação às medidas adotadas.
REMUNERAÇÃO DOS EXECUTIVOS VERSUS ESTRUTURA DE CAPITAL
Authors: Lopes Iago França , Kaveski Itzhak David Simão , Beuren Ilse Maria , Theiss Viviane
Published: December 2019

Este estudo objetiva verificar a relação entre a remuneração dos executivos e o endividamento das empresas listadas na BM&FBovespa. Como parâmetros de endividamento utilizaram-se valores contábeis (Endividamento Total a Valor Contábil e o Endividamento de Curto Prazo a Valor Contábil) e de mercado (Endividamento Total a Valor de Mercado, Endividamento Financeiro Oneroso de Curto Prazo e Endividamento Financeiro Oneroso de Longo Prazo). Os resultados evidenciam relação negativa significante entre endividamento de curto prazo a valor contábil e remuneração dos executivos, indicando que quanto maior o endividamento menor é a remuneração. A relação positiva significante das variáveis de endividamento de mercado com remuneração dos executivos sugere que um nível de endividamento mais elevado implica maior remuneração para compensar os custos do risco de falência suportado pelos executivos. Esses resultados reforçam os pressupostos da Teoria da Agência, de que a remuneração dos executivos é um mecanismo disciplinador do seu comportamento.
Aerodynamic Performance Characterization of Slotted Propeller: Part B Effect of Angle
Authors: SEENI Aravind
Published: December 2019

In this paper, designs of slotted propeller blade were discussed numerically, in terms of aerodynamic performance and static structural analysis. Baseline APC Slow Flyer 10’ x 7’ small scale propeller blade was modified by including slots along the propeller blade. Numerical analysis has been done to determine the influence of slots angle towards thrust coefficient, power coefficient and efficiency. Simulations were performed by using ANSYS Fluent implementing k-ω turbulence model and Multiple Reference Frame to incorporate rotational speed of the propeller. The analyses were conducted at a fixed rotational speed, with variance of advance ratio. Initial slotted design is set at 180 degree and the angles were changed with 10-degree interval, ranging from 180 degree to 90 degree. The results were compared with available experimental data. For the slotted design, the result shows that inducing slots do not always lead to improvement in propeller blade performance. Improvement in thrust coefficient with the range of 0.267% to 2.71% can be seen for low advance ratio for most of slot angles. However, a significant increase in power coefficient can be observed which reduces the overall efficiency of the propeller blade. For stress and deformation, ANSYS Mechanical Static Structure was used to determine maximum Von-Mises stress, maximum Von-Mises strain, and total deformation. The analyses were conducted by using 60% long strand fiber glass reinforced nylon 6 Natural. The blade is more suitable to operate at higher velocity. At lower operational velocity, the blade tends to experience material failure as the stress exceeds stress at break.
Analysis of Equivalence Ratio in an Oxygen Acetylene Mixture
Authors: SHIVAM  , SINGH Mehakveer , DOGRA Bharat Ankur , CHANDER Subhash , JINDAL T. K.
Published: December 2019

The paper presents an exclusive approach to analyze the oxygen and acetylene mixture in a Pulse Detonation Engine setup at PEC. The experiment was carried out by varying the amount of mass flow of acetylene and oxygen into the tube at different pressures in the settling chamber. The equivalence ratio of the acetylene-oxygen mixture with respect to the valve opening time of acetylene and oxygen was plotted. The analysis of equivalence ratio also defines the procedure which involved the cycle of valves and pressure supply to attain different values of filling fraction of the tube. The results experimentally predicted the feasible range of operation at different pressures in the settling chamber of the pulse detonation engine.