bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gelsolin inhibits malignant phenotype of glioblastoma and is regulated by miR‐654‐5p and miR‐450b‐5p
Authors: Zhang Jiakang , Furuta Takuya , Sabit Hemragul , Tamai Sho , Jiapaer Shabierjiang , Dong Yu , Kinoshita Masashi , Uchida Yasuo , Ohtsuki Sumio , Terasaki Tetsuya , Zhao Shiguang , Nakada Mitsutoshi
Published: April 2020

We have previously shown that gelsolin (GSN) levels are significantly lower in the blood of patients with glioblastoma (GBM) than in healthy controls. Here, we analyzed the function of GSN in GBM and examined its clinical significance. Furthermore, microRNAs involved in GSN expression were also identified. The expression of GSN was determined using western blot analysis and found to be significantly lower in GBM samples than normal ones. Gelsolin was mainly localized in normal astrocytes, shown using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Higher expression of GSN was correlated with more prolonged progression‐free survival and overall survival. Gelsolin knockdown using siRNA and shRNA markedly accelerated cell proliferation and invasion in GBM in vitro and in vivo. The inactive form of glycogen synthase kinase‐3β was dephosphorylated by GSN knockdown. In GBM tissues, the expression of GSN and microRNA (miR)‐654‐5p and miR‐450b‐5p showed an inverse correlation. The miR‐654‐5p and miR‐450b‐5p inhibitors enhanced GSN expression, resulting in reduced proliferation and invasion. In conclusion, GSN, which inhibits cell proliferation and invasion, is suppressed by miR‐654‐5p and miR‐450b‐5p in GBM, suggesting that these miRNAs can be targets for treating GBM.
Combination of RERG and ZNF671 methylation rates in circulating cell‐free DNA: A novel biomarker for screening of nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Xu Yifei , Zhao Weilin , Mo Yingxi , Ma Ning , Midorikawa Kaoru , Kobayashi Hatasu , Hiraku Yusuke , Oikawa Shinji , Zhang Zhe , Huang Guangwu , Takeuchi Kazuhiko , Murata Mariko
Published: April 2020

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a prevalent malignancy in Southeast Asia, hence, identifying easily detectable biomarkers for NPC screening is essential for better diagnosis and prognosis. Using genome‐wide and targeted analyses based on next‐generation sequencing approaches, we previously showed that gene promoters are hypermethylated in NPC tissues. To confirm whether DNA methylation rates of genes could be used as biomarkers for NPC screening, 79 histologically diagnosed NPC patients and 29 noncancer patients were recruited. A convenient quantitative analysis of DNA methylation using real‐time PCR (qAMP) was carried out, involving pretreatment of tissue DNA, and circulating cell‐free DNA (ccfDNA) from nonhemolytic plasma, with methylation‐sensitive and/or methylation‐dependent restriction enzymes. The qAMP analyses revealed that methylation rates of RERG, ZNF671, ITGA4, and SHISA3 were significantly higher in NPC primary tumor tissues compared to noncancerous tissues, with sufficient diagnostic accuracy of the area under receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC). Interestingly, higher methylation rates of RERG in ccfDNA were statistically significant and yielded a very good AUC; however, those of ZNF671, ITGA4, and SHISA3 were not significant. Furthermore, the combination of methylation rates of RERG and ZNF671 in ccfDNA showed higher diagnostic accuracy than either of them individually. In conclusion, the methylation rates of specific genes in ccfDNA can serve as novel biomarkers for early detection and screening of NPC.
Regulating without controlling: Children's food and self‐management in the U.S. middle class
Authors: Patico Jennifer
Published: April 2020

This ethnography examines how adults in an Atlanta community approached the challenges involved in children's food socialisation and emotional socialisation at large. In both realms, self‐management was the ultimate goal. For parents, striking a balance between conscientious attentiveness and offensively controlling behaviours was key. Ultimately, the realm of children's food revealed emotional tensions inherent in middle‐class models of selfhood, where both children and adults come under scrutiny for their comportment and tastes, and where careful regulation is deemed both necessary and problematic in ways that work to deflect attention from the compensatory labour of parents in a neoliberal economy.
Economic thoughts on COVID‐19 for Canadian food processors
Authors: Hailu Getu
Published: April 2020

In this paper, I explore the potential effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on Canadian food processors. First, COVID‐19 may have an impact on food processing economic activities because of supply and demand shocks. Second, the impact of COVID‐19 on food processing may depend on the type of products and the size of the processors. The effects of measures taken by the government to flatten the epidemiological curve on the economic activities of the food processing sector are uncertain.
Spatial heterogeneity in population change of the globally threatened European turtle dove in Spain: The role of environmental favourability and land use
Authors: Moreno‐Zarate Lara , Estrada Alba , Peach Will , Arroyo Beatriz
Published: April 2020

Aim

To describe the population trend for European turtle doves in Spain. To identify favourable and unfavourable areas for the species and to test whether favourability or land use explain spatial variation in abundance change.

Location

Mainland Spain.

Methods

We used generalized linear models with extensive abundance data to describe population change for the European turtle dove across Spain. We used breeding distribution (presence/absence) data at 100 km2 resolution to model environmental favourability in relation to topo‐climatic and land use variables. Finally, we tested whether land use and favourability explained spatial variation in abundance trends.

Results

The large Spanish turtle dove population declined by 37% between 1996 and 2018. Favourability was highest in the south, east and north–west of Spain and lowest in the north and at higher altitudes. Abundance trends were more negative in areas of lower environmental favourability and in localities dominated by arboreal habitats such as forests, “dehesas” (open agro‐forestry landscapes with scattered Quercus trees), transitional woodland shrubs or sclerophyllous vegetation (a mixture of sclerophyllous shrubs with some scattered trees). Trends were more positive in localities dominated by complex cultivation (small parcels of mixed crop types, including woody permanent crops like olive, or almond trees or vineyards).

Main conclusions

Our study highlights a substantial recent decline in the numerically important turtle dove breeding population in Spain. Declines in abundance were more strongly associated with arboreal (forest and shrub areas) rather than agricultural habitats, highlighting an urgent need for further research into the ecology of this important quarry species in arboreal breeding habitats in southern Europe.
Severe aortic regurgitation with intimal intussusception secondary to Debakey type I aortic dissection
Authors: Nakamura Ryo , Honda Kentaro , Yuzaki Mitsuru , Nishimura Yoshiharu
Published: April 2020

Aortic regurgitation (AR) with intimal intussusception, secondary to aortic dissection, is relatively rare and the images are interesting findings. We report a typical case of severe AR with intimal intussusception, secondary to DeBakey type I aortic dissection, detected by contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CECT) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Since there are three types of aortic regurgitation with aortic dissection, it is imperative to consider the most appropriate intervention for AR. The combination of CECT, TEE, and surgical findings may play an important role in determining the optimum surgical procedure for AR with aortic dissection.
Hanoverian F/W‐line contributes to segregation of Warmblood fragile foal syndrome type 1 variant PLOD1:c.2032G>A in Warmblood horses
Authors: Metzger Julia , Kreft Oliver , Sieme Harald , Martinsson Gunilla , Reineking Wencke , Hewicker‐Trautwein Marion , Distl Ottmar
Published: April 2020

Background

Warmblood fragile foal syndrome (WFFS) is a lethal condition detected in Warmblood horses. Its origin and association with performance traits and fertility among horse populations is unknown.

Objectives

To validate the previously identified WFFS type 1 (WFFST1)‐associated missense variant PLOD1:c.2032G>A and to investigate its distribution among various horses with particular focus on Hanoverian breed, as well as its pathomorphological picture. The study aimed at identifying the origin of the mutant allele and its correlation with performance and fertility traits in Warmblood horses.

Study design

Retrospective case‐control and association study.

Methods

WFFST1 variant was validated using whole genome sequencing (WGS) in 78 equids. In an affected foal with a homozygous mutant genotype, necropsy was performed. Skin samples were examined using histology and transmission electron microscopy. Pathway analysis was performed to trace back 81 genetic carriers to the most common recent ancestor. Furthermore, generalised linear model analysis was employed to test estimated breeding values (EBVs) for differences in performance and fertility traits among different genotypes in Hanoverian horses.

Results

WFFST1 variant had the lowest minor allele frequency among all variants detected in WGS data in the region of PLOD1. Further genotyping of this variant revealed allele frequencies of 0.14 in Hanoverian horses. Histological investigations of the WFFST1‐affected foal showed loosely arranged collagen fibres in the dermis. Ultrastructurally, multifocal areas with degraded collagen fibrils and fibrillar plaques were detected. Further pathway analysis revealed a stallion from the Hanoverian sire F/W line as the most common recent ancestor of all tested genetic carriers. Furthermore, WFFST1 variant was found to be correlated with EBVs for gait‐related traits as well as conformation and dressage.

Main limitations

Study evaluated carriers and cases only from Europe.

Conclusions

This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of WFFST1 variant and traces it back to its potential origin.
Effects of CuO content in the glass on the interfacial reaction for the NiCuZn ferrites‐FeSiCr alloy composites
Authors: Hsiang Hsing‐I , Yang Sheng‐Mao , Chen Chih‐Cheng
Published: April 2020

The effects of CuO content in Bi‐B‐Si‐Zn glass on the interfacial reaction between the glasses and FeSiCr alloy powder and NiCuZn ferrites, microstructure, and adhesion strength were investigated. For the FeSiCr alloy and glass interface, the iron in FeSiCr alloy dissolves into the glass and is oxidized into Fe3+ during heating. The copper ions in the glass are reduced to elemental copper near the interface to maintain charge neutrality. This leads to chemical bonding between the FeSiCr alloy and glass at 750°C under air atmosphere. The CuO in the glass increases the wettability and adhesion between the FeSiCr alloy and glass. The redox reaction inhibits crack propagation from Vickers indentations in the spherical copper‐rich precipitates near the interface, but the presence of pores in the glass layer would decrease the adhesion strength. In the FeSiCr alloy/glass/NiCuZn ferrites/glass/FeSiCr alloy structure, glass with 5 wt% CuO exhibited higher pulling strength. Moreover, the amount of elemental copper precipitates increased as the heat‐treatment temperature was increased to 800 and 850°C, leading to an increase in the glass and FeSiCr alloy adhesion strength.
Impact of CBCT image quality on the confidence of furcation measurements
Authors: Rinne Carin Aime , Dagassan‐Berndt Dorothea C. , Connert Thomas , Müller‐Gerbl Magdalena , Weiger Roland , Walter Clemens
Published: April 2020

Background

To investigate the impact of scanning parameter in cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) images on accuracy and confidence with measurements of furcation involvement (FI) in maxillary molars.

Material and methods

Six half cadaver heads with present maxillary molars (n = 10) were available. CBCT scans with the fixed‐parameter field of view (4 × 4 cm, 12 × 17 cm) amperage and voltage (4 mA, 90 kV) and with varying scan modes (SM), that is images/scan (IS), voxel sizes (VZ) and rotation (R), were performed using one CBCT apparatus. The images were analysed by two calibrated investigators. Horizontal FI's were measured in mm or a “through and through” destruction (FI degree III) was recorded. Each rater scored the FI measurements performed in each scan as “confident” or as “not confident”. Data were statistically analysed using chi‐square tests.

Results

The agreement between CBCT FI measurements and intra‐surgical FI measurements varied according to SM (SM HiSp 180°, 0.08: kappa 0.538, CI; 95%: 0.362–0.714; SM Std. 360°, 0.25: kappa 0.698, CI; 95%: 0.534–0.861). The number of measurements scored as “confident” varied according to SM (SM Std. 360°, 0.08:52 out of 60 measurements; SM Std. 360°, 0.25:16 out of 60 measurements;p < .001).

Conclusions

SM of CBCT significantly affect the confidence with FI measurements in maxillary molars.
Entomopathogenic nematodes control Plum Sawflies (Hoplocampa minuta and H. flava)
Authors: Nježić Branimir , Ehlers Ralf‐Udo
Published: April 2020

Plum sawflies are among the most damaging pests of European plum. Current control strategy implies insecticide application. Three species of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN), Steinernema feltiae Filipjev, S. carpocapsae Weiser and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora Poinar were tested under laboratory and field conditions to assess effectiveness against larval and adult stages. Laboratory tests resulted in up to 100% mortality of last instar larvae before construction of a cocoon. However, the nematodes were not able to penetrate the cocoon. Foliar application did not result in plum sawflies larvae infestation by EPNs. Under field conditions, the nematodes reduced the number of emerging adults by application against sawfly larvae in the previous year before migration into the soil for overwintering by 62%–92%. Application of the nematodes against adults just before their anticipated emergence resulted in reduction of fruit infestation up to 100%. Mean results of 5 trials using caged trees were 47.8% with S. feltiae, 56.3% with S. carpocapsae and 62.9% with H. bacteriophora. In open field trails, control of adults obtained with S. feltiae at 0.5 million nematodes/m2 was 98.2 and 67.8% and at 0.25 million m−2 41.7 and 41.2%. Forecasting adult emergence and optimal soil moisture conditions are essential for success of the nematode application.
First report of signs of infection by Coccomyxa‐like algae in wild blue mussels, Mytilus spp., in the Gulf of Maine (USA, Maine)
Authors: Zuykov Michael , Allam Bassem , Gosselin Michel , Archambault Philippe , Spiers Graeme , Schindler Michael
Published: April 2020

In August 2019, visual inspection of intertidal zones of the Gulf of Maine (ME, USA) revealed young and adult wild blue mussels, Mytilus spp., in Alley Bay (Jonesport area) with the distinctive L‐shaped shell deformity (LSSD) and green spots (GS) in the mantle and adductor muscle. LSSD is a characteristic sign of current or previous mussel infection by photosynthetic unicellular alga from the group Coccomyxa, while GS are algal colonies. Based on these findings, this study represents the first report of infection signs by pathogenic Coccomyxa‐like algae in mussels from the coastal waters of the Northeastern United States, providing a base for future large scale monitoring of the alga in the region.
Development of sago (Metroxylon sagu)‐based colorimetric indicator incorporated with butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea) anthocyanin for intelligent food packaging
Authors: Ahmad Afiqah Nabihah , Abdullah Lim Syazana , Navaranjan Namasivayam
Published: April 2020

Innovation in colorimetric sensors to detect early signs of food spoilage is a growing interest in food safety and quality control. Currently available chemical dyes for sensor applications have concern because of their possible migration into food packaging and food in contact. In this study, a colorimetric indicator was developed using natural butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea) anthocyanin with Sago (Metroxylon sagu) as polymeric film. The principle was based on pH shift due to chemical processes produced by microorganism causing anthocyanin color to change. The film was fabricated by solvent casting method and characterized by color change at different pH values, total water solubility, swelling rate, and morphological structure. Trials on chicken breast samples in various conditions exhibited that the film indicator responded well according to pH variation enabling a real‐time monitoring due to spoilage. Thus, our natural pH indicator with visible color variation allows for simple, economic and safe monitoring of perishable foods.
Melatonin attenuates choroidal neovascularization by regulating macrophage/microglia polarization via inhibition of RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway
Authors: Xu Yue , Cui Kaixuan , Li Jia , Tang Xiaoyu , Lin Jianqiang , Lu Xi , Huang Rong , Yang Boyu , Shi Yuxun , Ye Dan , Huang Jingjing , Yu Shanshan , Liang Xiaoling
Published: April 2020

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is an important characteristic of advanced wet age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) and leads to severe visual impairment among elderly patients. Previous studies have demonstrated that melatonin induces several biological effects related to antioxidation, anti‐inflammation, and anti‐angiogenesis. However, the role of melatonin in CNV, and its underlying mechanisms, has not been investigated thus far. In this study, we found that melatonin administration significantly reduced the scale and volume of CNV lesions, suppressed vascular leakage, and inhibited the capacity of vascular proliferation in the laser‐induced mouse CNV model. Additionally, the results also show that the melatonin‐treated retinal microglia in the laser‐induced mice exhibited enhanced expression of M1‐type markers, such as iNOS, CCL‐3, CCL‐5, and TNF‐α, as well as decreased production of M2‐type markers, such as Arg‐1, Fizz‐1, IL‐10, YM‐1, and CD206, indicating that melatonin switched the macrophage/microglia polarization from pro‐angiogenic M2 phenotype to anti‐angiogenic M1 phenotype. Furthermore, the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway was activated during CNV formation, yet was suppressed after an intraperitoneal injection of melatonin. In conclusion, melatonin attenuated CNV, reduced vascular leakage, and inhibited vascular proliferation by switching the macrophage/microglia polarization from M2 phenotype to M1 phenotype via inhibition of RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway in CNV. This suggests that melatonin could be a novel agent for the treatment of AMD.
Ramgarh, Rajasthan, India: A 10 km diameter complex impact structure
Authors: Kenkmann Thomas , Wulf Gerwin , Agarwal Amar
Published: April 2020

The Ramgarh structure is a morphological landmark in southeastern Rajasthan, India. Its 200 m high and 3.5–4 km wide annular collar has provoked many hypotheses regarding its origin, including impact. Here, we document planar deformation features, planar fractures, and feather features in quartz grains of the central part of the Ramgarh structure, which confirm its impact origin. The annular collar does not mark the crater rim but represents the outer part of a central uplift of an approximately 10 km diameter complex impact structure. The apparent crater rim is exposed as a low‐angle normal fault and can be traced as lineaments in remote sensing imagery. The central uplift shows a stratigraphic uplift of ~1000 m and is rectangular in shape. It is dissected by numerous faults that are co‐genetic with the formation of the central uplift. The central uplift has a bilateral symmetry along an SW‐NE axis, where a large strike‐slip fault documents a strong horizontal shear component. This direction corresponds to the assumed impact trajectory from the SW toward the NE. The uprange sector is characterized by concentric reverse faults, whereas radial faults dominate downrange. Sandstones of the central uplift are infiltrated by Fe‐oxides and suggest an impact‐induced hydrothermal mineralization overprint. The impact may have occurred into a shallow water environment as indicated by soft‐sediment deformation features, observed near the apparent crater rim, and the deposition of a diamictite layer above them. Gastropods embedded in the diamictite have Middle Jurassic age and may indicate the time of the impact.
A pluralistic theory of wordhood
Authors: Gasparri Luca
Published: April 2020

What are words and how should we individuate them? There are two main answers on the philosophical market. For some, words are bundles of structural–functional features defining a unique performance profile. For others, words are noneternal continuants individuated by their causal‐historical ancestry. These conceptions offer competing views of the nature of words, and it seems natural to assume that at most one of them can capture the essence of wordhood. This paper makes a case for pluralism about wordhood: The view that there is a plurality of acceptable conceptions of the nature of words, none of which is uniquely entitled to inform us as to what wordhood consists in.
Paediatric intensive care follow‐up provision in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland
Authors: Manning Joseph C. , Scholefield Barnaby R. , Popejoy Emma , Dodds Elizabeth , Latour Jos M.
Published: April 2020

The objective of this study was to examine the characteristic, content, and role of Paediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs) in the provision of follow‐up for children and their families' post‐intensive care discharge in the United Kingdom (UK) and Republic of Ireland (RoI). The study followed a descriptive self‐reported, web‐based survey design. “In‐hospital PICU follow‐up” was defined as follow‐up delivered by the PICU team following PICU discharge but before hospital discharge and “post‐discharge PICU follow‐up” was defined as follow‐up delivered by the PICU team following hospital discharge. The survey was administered to all 28 PICUs in the UK and RoI. Paediatric intensive care medical directors or delegated individuals participated. Data were collected between September 2017 and January 2018 with a response rate of 79% (n = 22/28). Twelve units provided either in‐hospital and/or post‐discharge PICU follow‐up. Ten (45%) PICUs reported providing in‐hospital follow‐up, with half (n = 5) using an eligibility criteria for in‐hospital follow‐up, which related to disease groups. The most frequently reported form of in‐hospital PICU follow‐up consisted of face‐to‐face patient consultation (n = 8) by a PICU doctor (n = 5) and/or nurse (n = 4). The time at which initial contact was made was usually not predetermined (n = 4) and the assessment of care needs included are tracheostomy care (n = 4), respiratory care (n = 4), and sedative medication weaning plan (n = 5). Four PICUs reported to provide post‐discharge follow‐up. This involved telephone (n = 2), follow‐up clinic consultations (n = 1) or home visits (n = 1), provided predominantly by PICU doctors (n = 2), with their activity directed by patient needs (n = 3). Despite increasing evidence to suggest PICU survivors and their families experience negative sequalae post‐PICU discharge, less than half of PICUs surveyed provide in‐hospital follow‐up and only a minority provide post‐discharge follow‐up. There is variation in the delivery, content, and format of in‐hospital and post‐discharge PICU follow‐up in the UK and RoI.
The root‐invading pathogen Fusarium oxysporum targets pattern‐triggered immunity using both cytoplasmic and apoplastic effectors
Authors: Tintor Nico , Paauw Misha , Rep Martijn , Takken Frank L. W.
Published: April 2020

Plant pathogens use effector proteins to promote host colonisation. The mode of action of effectors from root‐invading pathogens, such as Fusarium oxysporum (Fo), is poorly understood. Here, we investigated whether Fo effectors suppress pattern‐triggered immunity (PTI), and whether they enter host cells during infection.

Eight candidate effectors of an Arabidopsis‐infecting Fo strain were expressed with and without signal peptide for secretion in Nicotiana benthamiana and their effect on flg22‐triggered and chitin‐triggered reactive oxidative species (ROS) burst was monitored. To detect uptake, effector biotinylation by an intracellular Arabidopsis‐produced biotin ligase was examined following root infection.

Four effectors suppressed PTI signalling; two acted intracellularly and two apoplastically. Heterologous expression of a PTI‐suppressing effector in Arabidopsis enhanced bacterial susceptibility. Consistent with an intracellular activity, host cell uptake of five effectors, but not of the apoplastically acting ones, was detected in Fo‐infected Arabidopsis roots.

Multiple Fo effectors targeted PTI signalling, uncovering a surprising overlap in infection strategies between foliar and root pathogens. Extracellular targeting of flg22 signalling by a microbial effector provides a new mechanism on how plant pathogens manipulate their host. Effector translocation appears independent of protein size, charge, presence of conserved motifs or the promoter driving its expression.
Treatment of Spinal Tuberculosis of GATA Type III: Primary Posterior Debridement Combined with Osteotomy Parallel to the Endplates for Reconstruction
Authors: Feng Yi , Wang Yu‐shan , Lv Jia , Lv Zhi , Zhao Bin , Zhao Sheng , Cheng Cai‐tong
Published: April 2020

To evaluate the curative effect of one‐stage posterior debridement and osteotomy parallel to the endplates for reconstruction, deformity correction, and tuberculosis control on treating the spinal tuberculosis of graded GATA III. From July of 2012 to December of 2017, there were 36 cases from the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University with thoracic and lumbar tuberculosis graded GATA III, in which we used osteotomy parallel to the endplates and reconstruction for treatment,16 for males and 20 for females. The local Cobb angles of kyphosis of all patients are greater than or equal to 20.The age varied from 28 months to 72 years with an average of 38.8 years. There were 15 cases of thoracic segment, 12 cases of thoracolumbar segment (T11‐L2), 9 cases of lumbar segment. Preoperative results of ASIA were 3 cases of grade C,5 cases of grade D and 28 cases of grade E with an average kyphosis Cobb angle of 37.21 ± 3.28. The visual analogue scale(VAS) scores preoperatively were 0‐8 points (averaged 5.58 ± 1.66 points). All the patients had paraspinal abscesses. After completing the preoperative examinations and evaluations, the osteotomy parallel to the endplates and reconstruction were executed. We made a statistical analysis of the Cobb angles, visual analogue scale(VAS) scores, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C‐reaction protein(CRP), and ASIA grades before and after the surgery. The following‐up time varied from 12 to 24 months, with an average of 18 months. The VAS score improved from 5.58 ± 1.66 before the surgery to 3.25 ± 0.92 one month after the surgery and 2.12 ± 0.73 at the last follow‐up. The Cobb angles decreased from 37.21° ± 3.28° before the surgery to 5.72°± 2.66° one month later and 5.99° ± 1.92° at the last follow‐up. The ESR decreased from 55.34 ± 1.72 mm/1 h before the surgery to 28.22 ± 3.76 mm/1 h one month later and 11.54 ± 0.46 mm/1 h at the last follow‐up. The CRP decreased from 35.22 ± 2.46 mg/L before to 12.67 ± 2.82 mg/L and 4.50 ± 2.11 mg/L at the last follow‐up. The results of the last ASIA grades were 1 case of grade D and 35 cases of grade E. The one‐stage posterior debridement and osteotomy parallel to the endplates for patients with spinal tuberculosis of graded GATA III are not only beneficial to spinal reconstruction, but also obtain ideal reconstuction effects.
The Origin of Territorial Disputes in Northeast Asia and Japanese Perceptions of the Russo‐Japanese War: A Literature Review
Authors: Yun Ji‐won
Published: April 2020

A great deal of research confirming not only the history of nationalist formation and subsequent eruption but also the political and diplomatic positions regarding territorial disputes in Northeast Asia has accumulated to date. Mostly, these studies have focused on conflicts in Northeast Asia in terms of diplomacy based on national interest and just cause, economic pressures to secure resources, and historical aspects when analyzing the factors of conflict while reflecting upon the past. In turn, this article deals with the internal conditions of the people in Northeast Asian countries formed since the 19th century. From this context, this study seeks to investigate the combination of Japanese nationalism as present in literature before and after the Russo‐Japanese War (1904–1905) and examines how it is connected to Japanese militarism. The Russo‐Japanese War had a significant influence on Japanese literature and naturally contributed to forming the internal conditions of the Japanese people. After great sacrifice, Japan won the war and opened a pioneering path into Manchuria through Joseon, the rising fortunes at that time leading to nostalgia for the Meiji Era.
Sino‐DPRK Geopolitical Curse behind Kim Jong‐un's Olive Branch
Authors: Jang Youngduk , Son Daekwon
Published: April 2020

This study explores Sino‐DPRK relations behind Pyongyang's olive branch in 2018. After several rounds of “war of words” with US President Donald Trump in 2017, Kim Jung‐un abruptly changed his nuclear policy in 2018 by pledging to be committed to denuclearization. This paper argues that beneath the Pyongyang's U‐turn is China's subtle deviation from its traditional geopolitical strategy. After a leadership transition in 2012, China, under Xi Jinping's pursuit of building a responsible superpower shouldering greater international responsibilities and obligations, struggled hard to escape from the “curse” of geopolitics in addressing the Korean peninsula. The resultant estranged Sino‐DPRK relations made Kim Jong‐un's three political goals – namely nuclear armament, economic growth, and domestic support – an “impossible trinity.” Although Kim Jong‐un counted on military adventurism to lure China into a geopolitical trap by escalating tension surrounding the THAAD deployment in South Korea, Trump's inauguration foiled Kim's scheme. As tension between Pyongyang and Washington mounted to hair‐trigger point, Xi Jinping, in the fear of possible US‐DPRK military confrontation, further tightened the economic restraint against the North. Kim Jong‐un, unable to rely on China's patronage for security and economy, was compelled to negotiate denuclearization directly with Washington.
Two cases of CARD14‐associated papulosquamous eruption from India
Authors: Chiramel Minu Jose , Sathishkumar Dharshini , Edison Eunice Sindhuvi , George Renu
Published: April 2020

Identification of CARD14‐associated papulosquamous eruption (CAPE) is important as it helps in determining prognosis and management of those affected. We report two siblings with genetically confirmed CAPE presenting with treatment‐resistant erythroderma in one patient and patterned psoriatic plaques with facial predominance in the other.
Composite monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis and MYD88 L265P‐positive lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma in a patient with IgM light chain amyloidosis: Case report
Authors: Oishi Naoki , Inoue Tomohiro , Odate Toru , Mochizuki Kunio , Ohashi Kenichi , Kirito Keita , Kondo Tetsuo
Published: April 2020

Monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis (MBL) is an early or precursor asymptomatic proliferation of chronic lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL)‐like B‐cells. Lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (LPL), often clinically associated with Waldenström macroglobulinemia, is a B‐cell neoplasm characterized by frequent MYD88 L265P mutation. Here, we report a rare composite MBL and LPL in a patient with IgM light chain (AL) amyloidosis. A 74‐year‐old male with a known IgM monoclonal protein developed proteinuria. No lymphocytosis was detected. Renal biopsy showed deposition of AL λ amyloid in the glomeruli and vessels. Subsequent bone marrow biopsy revealed nodular atypical CLL‐like small B‐cell proliferation and scattered peripheral LPL. Immunohistochemistry and/or flow cytometry revealed that the atypical CLL‐like population expressed CD19, CD20, CD5, weak CD23, LEF‐1 and diminished surface Igκ. The LPL was positive for CD19, CD20 and surface Igλ. Using laser‐capture microdissection and allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction, we confirmed that MYD88 L265P was detectable in the LPL but not in the atypical CLL‐like population. Thus, we demonstrated that these two populations were clonally independent, and made the diagnosis of composite MBL and LPL. An integrated clinical, pathological, immunophenotypic and genetic assessment is essential in such complicated cases, and especially ‘clone‐specific’ MYD88 genotyping may facilitate the differential diagnoses of low‐grade B‐cell lymphomas.
Lung cancer staging: State of the art in the era of ablative therapies and surgical segmentectomy
Authors: Gregor Alexander , Inage Terunaga , Hwangbo Bin , Yasufuku Kazuhiro
Published: April 2020

Implementation of lung cancer screening and improvements in imaging are expected to increase the proportion of lung cancer diagnosed at an early stage. The standard of care has historically been anatomic lobectomy; however, there is now an array of surgical and non‐surgical approaches for management of local disease either in active use or under investigation. By their nature, these new modalities offer a theoretical trade‐off of reduced morbidity in exchange for reduced efficacy in the setting of advanced disease. It is therefore critical that patients being considered for these approaches (e.g. surgical segmentectomy and SABR) be accurately staged to maximize the potential for definitive treatment. In this article, we will review current approaches to the staging of patients being considered for segmentectomy or ablation. This will serve as a foundation to highlight important questions deserving further investigation.
Perceptions of the scope of practice of nurse practitioners caring for older adults: level of agreement among different healthcare providers
Authors: Henni Silje Havrevold , Kirkevold Marit , Antypas Konstantinos , Foss Christina
Published: April 2020

Background

Globally, new nurse practitioner roles have been introduced into interdisciplinary teams. Research indicates that agreement among the different healthcare providers regarding one another’s role and scope of practice is important for establishing interdisciplinary teamwork. Lack of agreement regarding a new nurse practitioner’s scope of practice may hinder collaboration.

Aim

To investigate the level of agreement among advanced geriatric nurses (AGNs), their colleagues and their leaders regarding which activities related to direct and indirect care, teaching/supervision, coordination and research and development work are perceived as appropriate for AGNs.

Design

A cross‐sectional descriptive survey.

Methods

The total population of AGNs in Norway (n = 26) and a sample of their colleagues, including leaders (n = 465), were invited to answer an online questionnaire. Twenty‐three (88.5%) AGNs and 195 (42%) colleagues answered the questionnaires. A series of cross‐tabulations were conducted to identify the respondents reporting on the appropriateness of different activities.

Results

The respondents identified all of the activities related to coordination, teaching/supervision and research and development work as appropriate for AGNs. Although the respondents considered several of the direct and indirect care activities as appropriate, there were conflicting views on the activities that traditionally fall within the medical field vs. those that traditionally fall within the nursing field. The AGNs saw most of the nursing and medical activities as appropriate, but their colleagues and leaders saw only some of the nursing activities as appropriate. The results also showed that there was high disagreement among the leaders regarding appropriate activities.

Conclusion

The results indicate that healthcare providers agree on which activities related to teaching/supervision, coordination, and research and development work are appropriate to include in AGNs’ scope of practice, but that there are conflicting views regarding activities related to direct and indirect care.
Pubic fractures secondary to extended transpelvic urethrostomy in a cat
Authors: Moores Alison L. , Agthe Petra , Anderson Davina M. , Grierson James M.
Published: April 2020

Objective

To report the occurrence and describe the management of pubic fractures after the use of an extended transpelvic urethrostomy (TPU) to treat postprostatic intrapelvic urethral obstruction and laceration in a cat.

Animal

One 6‐year‐old domestic short‐haired cat.

Study design

Case report.

Methods

A cat was presented with urethral obstruction and laceration confirmed by positive contrast retrograde urethrography. Temporary urinary diversion was performed. An attempt was made to perform perineal urethrostomy, but the cranial location of the laceration precluded this technique. An extended TPU was performed, which required removal of 30% to 60% greater length of pelvic bone than has been previously described.

Results

Bilateral pubic ramus fractures occurred 1 week after surgery, from which the cat clinically improved with cage rest, and exhibited evidence of healing according to computed tomography after 8 weeks.

Conclusion

Extended TPU used to treat postprostatic intrapelvic urethral laceration may lead to pubic fractures postoperatively.

Clinical significance

It may be prudent to rest any cat that has had a TPU or extended TPU to reduce fracture risk.
Taylor and McCallum Rule during the Unprecedented Monetary Easing Era: The Recent Japanese Case
Authors: Kurihara Yutaka , Fukushima Akio
Published: April 2020

The Taylor and McCallum rules have been examined a lot in many studies. After these frameworks were presented, deflation has been prevailing and market interest rates have been low, almost zero, or negative in the world. Japan is a typical example. Unconventional monetary policy based on monetary base instead of based on interest rates, has been conducting. This study examines whether or not the Taylor and McCallum rule fit well in Japan. The empirical results show that the McCallum rule fits for recent Japanese cases, but the Taylor rule does not.
Stock Returns and Roughness Extreme Variations: A New Model for Monitoring 2008 Market Crash and 2015 Flash Crash
Authors: Shirvani Abootaleb
Published: April 2020

We use Student’s t-copula to study the extreme variations in the bivariate kinematic time series of log–return and log–roughness of the S&P 500 index during two market crashes, the financial crisis in 2008 and the flash crash on Monday August 24, 2015. The stable and small values of the tail dependence index observed for some months preceding the market crash of 2008 indicate that the joint distribution of daily return and roughness was close to a normal one. The volatility of the tail and degree of freedom indices as determined by Student’s t-copula falls down substantially after the stock market crash of 2008. The number of degrees of freedom in the empirically observed distributions falls while the tail coefficient of the copula increases, indicating the long memory effect of the market crash of 2008. A significant change in the tail and degree of freedom indices associated with the intraday price of S&P 500 index is observed before, during, and after the flash crash on August 24, 2015. The long memory effect of the stock market flash crash of August 2015 is indicated by the number of degrees of freedom in the empirically observed distributions fall while the tail coefficient of the joint distribution increases after the flash crash. The small and stable value of degrees of freedom preceding the flash crash provides evidence that the joint distribution for intraday data of return and roughness is heavy-tailed. Time-varying long-range dependence in mean and volatility as well as the Chow and Bai-Perron tests indicate non-stability of the stock market in this period.
Sustainability and Fairness Simulations Based on Decision-Making Model of Utility Function and Norm Function
Authors: Kato Takeshi , Kudo Yasuyuki , Miyakoshi Junichi , Otsuka Jun , Saigo Hayato , Karasawa Kaori , Yamaguchi Hiroyuki , Hiroi Yoshinori , Deguchi Yasuo
Published: April 2020

We introduced a decision-making model based on value functions that included individualistic utility function and socio-constructivistic norm function and proposed a norm-fostering process that recursively updates norm function through mutual recognition between the self and others. As an example, we looked at the resource-sharing problem typical of economic activities and assumed the distribution of individual actions to define the (1) norm function fostered through mutual comparison of value/action ratio based on the equity theory (progressive tax-like), (2) norm function proportional to resource utilization (proportional tax-like) and (3) fixed norm function independent of resource utilization (fixed tax-like). By carrying out numerical simulation, we showed that the progressive tax-like norm function (i) does not increase disparity for the distribution of the actions, unlike the other norm functions, and (ii) has high resource productivity and low Gini coefficient. Therefore the progressive tax-like norm function has the highest sustainability and fairness.
Microelectromechanical Systems Cantilever Resonators: Pressure-Dependent Gas Film Damping
Authors: Kwang-Hua Chu Rainer
Published: April 2020

Under near-vacuum conditions, the fluid frictional dissipation or approximately the inverse of the quality factor of a microcantilever once the intrinsic dissipation can be neglected is proportional to the low pressure. We shall investigate the dynamic behavior of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) devices via the calculation of the quality factor or frictional damping forces resulting from surrounding gases. Here, we illustrated some specific examples relevant to the computation of the quality factor or dynamical friction for an oscillating microcantilever in air via measurements of the paper of Okada et al. (Okada, H., Itoh, T., and Suga, T., 2008, Wafer Level Sealing Characterization Method Using Si Micro Cantilevers,Â” Sens. Actuators A, 147(2), pp. 359–364) considering the quality factors of the CM (a label for a microcantilever: 500 × 90 × 5 μm3 Si microcantilever (the measured resonance frequency: 23.7 kHz) and the paper of Kara et al. (Kara, V., Yakhot, V., and Ekinci, K. L., 2017, Generalized Knudsen Number for Unsteady Fluid Flow, Phys. Rev. Lett., 118(7), p. 074505) in rarefied gases regime. We present the corrected quality factor or dynamical friction over the whole range of the Knudsen number considering the CM part by Okada et al. Our new plot considering the quality factor which is proportional to the inverse of the dissipative friction parameter per unit length, pressure as well as the Knudsen number over the whole range should be useful to researchers in this field.
Assessment of Mechanical Properties and Microstructure Characterizing Techniques in Their Ability to Quantify Amount of Cold Work in 316L Alloy
Authors: Smith Helen , Linke Barbara S. , Muránsky Ondrej , Hamelin Cory , Hill Michael R.
Published: April 2020

Stress corrosion cracking (SCC) behavior is a matter of concern for structural materials, namely, stainless steels and nickel alloys, in nuclear power plants. High levels of cold work (CW) have shown to both reduce crack initiation times and increase crack growth rates. Cold working has numerous effects on a material, including changes in microstructure, mechanical properties, and residual stress state, yet it is typically reported as a simple percent change in geometry. There is need to develop a strategy for quantitative assessment of cold-work level in order to better understand stress corrosion cracking test data. Five assessment techniques, commonly performed alongside stress corrosion cracking testing (optical microscopy (OM), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), X-ray diffraction (XRD), tensile testing, and hardness testing) are evaluated with respect to their ability to quantify the level of CW in a component. The test material is stainless steel 316L that has been cold-rolled to three conditions: 0%, 20%, and 30% CW. Measurement results for each assessment method include correlation with CW condition and repeatability data. Measured values showed significant spatial variation, illustrating that CW level is not uniform throughout a component. Mechanical properties (tensile testing, hardness) were found to correlate most linearly with the amount of imparted CW.
Model-Based Study of a Metamaterial Lens for Nondestructive Evaluation of Composites
Authors: Datta Srijan , Shi Xiaodong , Mukherjee Saptarshi , Deng Yiming , Udpa Lalita
Published: April 2020

Composites are being increasingly used in various industries due to their lower cost and superior mechanical properties over traditional materials. They are nevertheless vulnerable to various defects during manufacturing or usage which can cause failure of critical engineering structures. Hence, there is a growing need for nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of composites to detect such defective structures and avoid significant loss and damages. Microwave NDE has several advantages over other existing NDE techniques for detecting defects or faults in non-conducting composites or dielectrics. One of the primary benefits of microwaves is large probe-standoff distances which allow for rapid scan times. However, the resolution of such far-field microwave sensors is diffraction limited. Metamaterial-based lens, also known as “superlens,” can achieve resolution beyond the diffraction limits due to its unique electromagnetic (EM) properties. This contribution focuses on the physical design of a metamaterial lens. The theory underlying the design of a metamaterial lens is presented followed by simulation and experimental results. This paper also investigates the feasibility of using the metamaterial lens for improving the resolution of microwave imaging in NDE of composites.
Dry Sliding Wear Performance of Ni–SiC Composites Developed Through an In Situ Microwave Casting Process
Authors: Singh Satnam , Gupta Dheeraj , Kaushal Sarbjeet
Published: April 2020

Metal matrix composites of nickel-based powder reinforced with silicon carbide are processed through a domestic microwave applicator. In situ melting and casting of composites were carried out using microwave energy with average processing time of 25 min. Phase analysis of processed composites revealed the formation of some hard-intermetallic compounds such as nickel silicides (NiSi, Ni2Si, and Ni3Si2) and carbides (Cr3C2 and Cr7C3). Microstructure analysis confirms the favorable growth of equiaxed grains with uniform dispersion of reinforcement and low porosity defects (1.5–1.8%). The formation of hard-intermetallic compounds and the presence of SiC reinforcement led to the increased microhardness of composites. Sliding wear tests under dry sliding conditions with varying load and velocity conditions revealed the formation of stable oxide tribolayers at 1.0 m/s of sliding velocity and 15 N load. Fractography of worn-out samples revealed abrasion of surfaces at the lower load (10 N) condition. However, on increasing the load, the shearing of surfaces due to adhesion, plastic deformations, and surface pullout was observed. At higher loads (20 N) and higher sliding velocities (1.5 m/s), particle pullout and three-body abrasive wear mechanisms were observed. The overall weight loss study revealed that the addition of 5% and 10% volume fraction of SiC reinforcement reduced the wear-rate by 58.9% and 80.6% in comparison to the pure nickel casting at the sliding velocity of 1 m/s and under 15 N load.