bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gut Microbiota and Colonization Resistance against Bacterial Enteric Infection
Authors: Ducarmon Q. R. , Zwittink R. D. , Hornung B. V. H. , van Schaik W. , Young V. B. , Kuijper E. J.
Published: June 2019

The gut microbiome is critical in providing resistance against colonization by exogenous microorganisms. The mechanisms via which the gut microbiota provide colonization resistance (CR) have not been fully elucidated, but they include secretion of antimicrobial products, nutrient competition, support of gut barrier integrity, and bacteriophage deployment.
Vitamin A Metabolism by Dendritic Cells Triggers an Antimicrobial Response against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Kim Elliot W. , De Leon Avelino , Jiang Zhichun , Radu Roxana A. , Martineau Adrian R. , Chan Edward D. , Bai Xiyuan , Su Wen-Lin , Montoya Dennis J. , Modlin Robert L. , Liu Philip T.
Published: June 2019

Tuberculosis (TB) is the leading cause of death by a single infectious agent worldwide. One factor that contributes to the success of the microbe is the deficiency in immunomodulatory nutrients, such as vitamin A (retinol), which are prevalent in areas where TB is endemic. Clinical trials show that restoration of systemic retinol levels in active TB patients is ineffective in mitigating the disease; however, laboratory studies demonstrate that activation of the vitamin A pathway inMycobacterium tuberculosis-infected macrophages triggers an antimicrobial response. Therefore, the goal of this study was to determine the link between host retinol levels and retinoic acid-mediated antimicrobial responses againstM. tuberculosis. By combining establishedin vitromodels within situstudies of lung tissue from TB patients, this study demonstrates that the innate immune system utilizes transcellular metabolism leading to activation between dendritic cells and macrophages as a means to combat the pathogen.
The role of the Dunn-Seiler Museum, Mississippi State University, in promoting public geoliteracy
Authors: Clary Renee M. , Moe-Hoffman Amy
Published: June 2019

Mississippi State University’s Dunn-Seiler Museum is a small, traditional museum housed in the Department of Geosciences. Founded in 1946, the museum preserves the geologic specimens collected by faculty, students, and donors and includes holotypes and extensive Cretaceous collections. Throughout its seven decades, the Dunn-Seiler Museum has transitioned in its role as a repository and displayer of geological objects to a facility that uses best practices in informal education to promote visitor understanding of important geological concepts, including biodiversity, evolution, geologic time, and sustainability. The first small public gallery had limited access and displayed specimens with identification cards but little interpretive signage. Beginning in the early 2000s, best research practices were utilized to build interpretive displays to enhance the visitor’s educational experience. In the past decade, the Dunn-Seiler participated within national organizations to expand educational opportunities with resources at the national level. Throughout this transition to increased public education, the museum still curated and maintained research collections. Today the Dunn-Seiler Museum bridges the community of researchers and the general public. While the museum’s role at the forefront of geology was initially in its storage and display of research specimens, its role has expanded to communicate geology for improved public geoliteracy.
Intravenous tPA in the treatment of acute stroke related to aortic dissection
Authors: Shivkumar Vikram , Nemade Dipali
Published: June 2019

A 61-year-old woman with no prior medical illness presented with acute onset stroke symptoms. She had no chest pain at the time of presentation. However, CT angiogram showed an extensive aortic dissection, resulting in hypoperfusion of the right cerebral hemisphere and thus causing stroke symptoms. Due to this finding, tissue plasminogen activator was not given and a negative outcome was avoided.
Preventing pressure injury in nursing homes: developing a care bundle using the Behaviour Change Wheel
Authors: Lavallée Jacqueline F , Gray Trish A , Dumville Jo C , Cullum Nicky
Published: June 2019

Objective

To develop, with nurse specialists and nursing home care staff, a theory and evidence-informedpressure injury preventioncare bundle for use in nursing home settings.

Design

The development of a care bundle.

Methods

We undertook a detailed, multistaged and theoretically driven development process. First, we identified evidence-informed pressure injury prevention practices: these formed an initial set of possible target behaviours to be considered for inclusion in the bundle. During a 4-hour workshop and supplemental email consultation with a total of 13 healthcare workers, we agreed the key target behaviours for the care bundle. We explored with staff the barriers and facilitators to prevention activity and defined intervention functions and behaviour change practices using the Behaviour Change Wheel.

Setting

North West England.

Results

The target behaviours consisted of three elements: support surfaces, skin inspection and repositioning. We identified capability, opportunity and reflective motivation as influencing the pressure injury prevention behaviours of nursing home care staff. The intervention functions (education, training, modelling) and behaviour change techniques (information about social and environmental consequences, information on health consequences, feedback on behaviour, feedback on the outcome of behaviour, prompts/cues, instruction on how to perform the behaviour, demonstration of behaviour) were incorporated into the care bundle.

Conclusion

This is the first description of a pressure injury prevention care bundle for nursing homes developed using the Behaviour Change Wheel. Key stakeholders identified and prioritised the appropriate target behaviours to aid pressure injury prevention in a nursing home setting.
Trends in the incidence of testing for vitamin D deficiency in primary care in the UK: a retrospective analysis of The Health Improvement Network (THIN), 2005–2015
Authors: Crowe Francesca L , Jolly Kate , MacArthur Christine , Manaseki-Holland Semira , Gittoes Neil , Hewison Martin , Scragg Robert , Nirantharakumar Krishnarajah
Published: June 2019

Objective

To investigate trends in the incidence of testing for vitamin D deficiency and the prevalence of patients with circulating concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) indicative of deficiency (<30 nmol/L) between 2005 and 2015.

Design

Longitudinal analysis of electronic health records in The Health Improvement Network primary care database.

Setting

UK primary care.

Intervention

None.

Participants

The analysis included 6 416 709 participants aged 18 years and older.

Primary outcomes

Incidence of having a blood test for vitamin D deficiency between 2005 and 2015, the prevalence with blood 25(OH)D <30 nmol/L and the effects of age, ethnicity and socioeconomic status on these measures were assessed.

Results

After a mean follow-up time of 5.4 (SD 3.7) years, there were 210 502 patients tested for vitamin D deficiency. The incidence of vitamin D testing rose from 0.29 per 1000 person-years at risk (PYAR) (95% CI 0.27 to 0.31) in 2005 to 16.1 per 1000 PYAR (95% CI 15.9 to 16.2) in 2015. Being female, older, non-white ethnicity and more economically deprived were all strongly associated with being tested. One-third (n=69 515) had 25(OH)D <30 nmol/L, but the per cent deficient among ethnic minority groups ranged from 43% among mixed ethnicity to 66% in Asians. Being male, younger and more economically deprived were also all associated with vitamin D deficiency (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Testing for vitamin D deficiency increased over the past decade among adults in the UK. One-third of UK adults who had a vitamin D test performed in primary care were vitamin D deficient, and deficiency was much higher among ethnic minority patients. Future research should focus on strategies to ensure population intake of vitamin D, particularly in at-risk groups, meets recommendations to reduce the risk of deficiency and need for testing.
Unusual presentation of canine Mycobacterium avium infection
Authors: Sharp Emily , Taylor Samantha , O'Halloran Conor
Published: June 2019

This short communication describes the clinical and morphological findings, diagnosis and treatment of a case of Mycobacterium avium infection in a golden retriever that presented with a progressive nasal swelling and lymphadenopathy. Although well documented in cats, where cutaneous lesions are frequently recognised, canine M avium infection is less commonly reported, and cutaneous lesions are rare. To the authors’ knowledge this is the first documented case of canine M avium infection that presented with a cutaneous lesion but no systemic clinical signs. It occurred in a dog with no previously reported breed predisposition and highlights that in cases of cutaneous histiocytic infiltrate in dogs mycobacterial infection should remain a differential diagnosis, even in the absence of suggestive organisms on histopathological examination.
Screw osteosynthesis of transverse fracture of the patella in children
Authors: Mortensen Simon Oksbjerre , Stausholm Anne Mette , Thorninger Rikke
Published: June 2019

Objective

Patella fractures in children are rare, with an incidence of less than 1% of all pediatric fractures. Literature describes different surgical techniques and outcomes, but there is not a specified superior technique for children. The aim of this study is to assess the functional outcome after screw fixation of transverse patella fractures in children.

Methods

Two boys at 11 years of age were presented with a transverse fracture of the patella within the same week. Open reduction and fixation of the fractured patella with periost sutures and a 4.0 mm titanium screw inserted from the distal fragment. Afterward, the quadriceps expansion was meticulously repaired with sutures.

Results

The patients could fully weight bear immediately on a fully extended knee in an orthosis. After 4 weeks, radiological healing was obtained. At the 8-week and 6-month follow-up, the modified Hospital of Special Surgery knee score was 100 points in both patients.

Conclusion

Single screw fixation provides an excellent outcome after 8 weeks with a full range of motion and full weight bearing, providing a faster recovery.
Postoperative complications of umbilical loop colostomy for anorectal malformations in neonates compared with the conventional abdominal stoma: a non-randomized study
Authors: Sakaguchi Tatsuma , Hamada Yoshinori , Shirai Takeshi , Hamada Hiroshi , Shigeta Yusuke , Nakamura Yusuke , Doi Takashi
Published: June 2019

Background

We previously reported a pilot study of temporary umbilical loop colostomy for neonates with intermediate-type anorectal malformations (ARM) and recommended this technique because of its cosmetic excellence. We herein report the postoperative complications of umbilical stomas (US) compared with traditional abdominal stomas (AS).

Methods

From our institutional prospective database, we analyzed the patients with ARMs who underwent stoma creation at Kansai Medical University Hospital from January 1995 to November 2016. The surgical technique used to create the US had been performed since 2004.

Results

US and AS were made for 12 and 27 patients with ARMs, respectively. The postoperative complication rates in patients who underwent US and AS had no significant difference (17% and 11%, p=0.6). The complications comprised a wound infection (one case of US), ileus (one case each of US and AS), mucosal prolapse (one case of AS), and depression (one case of AS). No emergency surgery was required for these complications.

Conclusion

For patients with ARMs, the umbilicus appears to be a safe alternative site for temporary loop colostomy.
Arterial stiffness and haemodynamic regulation in adolescent anorexia nervosa versus obesity
Authors: Tonhajzerova Ingrid , Mestanikova Andrea , Jurko Alexander , Grendar Marian , Langer Peter , Ondrejka Igor , Jurko Tomas , Hrtanek Igor , Cesnekova Dana , Mestanik Michal
Published: June 2019

Cardiovascular complications contribute to higher morbidity and mortality in patients with anorexia nervosa. We aimed to study biomarkers of cardiovascular risk in anorexic, normal-weight, and obese adolescents with focus on complex cardiovascular autonomic regulation and early arteriosclerotic damage. We examined 20 adolescent girls with anorexia nervosa, 20 obese girls, and 20 healthy normal-weight controls. Collected data: body composition analysis, 5 min recordings of R–R intervals and beat-to-beat blood pressure (BP), and arterial stiffness evaluated using cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI). Evaluated parameters: beat-to-beat heart rate and BP variability, haemodynamic parameters (total peripheral resistance (TPR) cardiac output), CAVI, and anthropometric indices, including novel body roundness index (BRI). Adolescents with anorexia nervosa had increased CAVI associated with lower arterial constriction indexed by low-frequency band of BP variability compared with normal-weight peers (p = 0.03, p = 0.04, respectively) and obese adolescents (p < 0.01, p = 0.01, respectively). After normalization of CAVI and TPR by BRI, the relationship between CAVI and TPR was significant for all groups with the highest slope in the anorexia nervosa group (R2 = 0.724, p < 0.01). This is the first study revealing early arteriosclerotic damage in anorexic girls with increased CAVI. Complex analysis of cardiovascular autonomic regulation, and early arteriosclerotic, hemodynamic, and anthropometric changes in spectrum anorexia nervosa, normal weight, and obesity could help to understand the mechanisms of increased cardiovascular risk in malnutrition.

Novelty Girls with anorexia nervosa showed signs of early arteriosclerotic damage indexed by CAVI. Insufficient sympathetic cardiovascular control was found already in adolescents with anorexia nervosa. The effect of body composition on CAVI was best predicted by novel body roundness index.
Belief in the need for sodium supplementation during ultramarathons remains strong: findings from the Ultrarunners Longitudinal TRAcking (ULTRA) study
Authors: Hoffman Martin D. , White Matthew D.
Published: June 2019

In the past, ultramarathon runners have commonly believed that consuming sodium supplements, as capsules or tablets, will prevent exercise-associated hyponatremia (EAH), dehydration, muscle cramping, and nausea, but accumulating evidence indicates that sodium supplementation during ultramarathons is not necessary and may be potentially dangerous. In this work, beliefs about whether sodium supplements should be made available at ultramarathons were assessed during 2018 among 1152 participants of the Ultrarunners Longitudinal TRAcking (ULTRA) study, of which 85.2% had completed an ultramarathon during 2014–2018. Two-thirds (66.4%) of study participants indicated that sodium supplements should be made available at ultramarathons, supported by beliefs that they prevent EAH (65.5%) and muscle cramping (59.1%). Of those indicating that sodium supplements should not be made available, 85.0% indicated it is because runners can provide their own, 27.9% indicated it is because they are not necessary, and 12.1% indicated they could increase thirst drive and cause overhydration. In general, there was a tendency for those who were older, less active in running ultramarathons in recent years, and with a longer history of ultramarathon running to be less likely to know that sodium supplements do not help prevent EAH, muscle cramping, and nausea.

Novelty Ultramarathon runners continue to have misunderstandings about the need for sodium supplementation during ultramarathons. Few ultramarathon runners recognize that supplementing sodium intake beyond that in food and drink is generally not necessary during ultramarathons or that it could result in overhydration. Continued educational efforts are warranted to help ensure safe participation in the sport.
The influence of dietary corn distillers dried grains with solubles during gestation of sows on fatty acid composition of colostrum and offspring
Authors: Meng Qingwei , Wang Liansheng , Sun Shishuai , Shi Zhan , Su Binchao , Qu Zhe , Shi Baoming , Shan Anshan
Published: June 2019

Thirty-six sows were randomly assigned to three treatments and fed 0, 125, or 250 g kg−1corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), which aimed to evaluate the effects of feeding DDGS to sows during gestation on the fatty acid composition of colostrum and offspring. In colostrum, feeding 0–250 g kg−1DDGS resulted in linear increase (P < 0.001) in linoleic acid (18:2n-6) level (from 14.7% to 19.8%) and total polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) level (from 16.9% to 22.8%), and linear decrease (P < 0.05) in levels of palmitic acid (16:0), oleic acid (18:1 cis-9), and total saturated fatty acid (SFA). In addition, the percentage of arachidonic acid (20:4n-6) in colostrum was increased from 0.56% to 1.23% (linear effect, P < 0.001, and quadratic effect, P = 0.010) with increasing level of DDGS. Feeding DDGS to sows resulted in linear increase (P < 0.05) in levels of 18:2n-6 (from 13.9% to 20.4%), 20:4n-6 (from 0.53% to 0.73%), docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3, from 0.28% to 0.37%), and total PUFA (from 15.9% to 22.6%), and linear decrease (P < 0.001) in levels of 16:0 and SFA of carcass of newborn piglets. The results demonstrated that feeding 125 or 250 g kg−1corn DDGS to sows increased the proportions of 18:2n-6, 20:4n-6, and total PUFA and decreased the proportions of 16:0 and total SFA in sow colostrum and the carcasses of newborn piglets, implying that inclusion of corn DDGS in diets for sows can alter fatty composition of colostrum and piglets.
Synthesis of lanthanide-doped TiO2nanoparticles and their photocatalytic activity under visible light
Authors: Ndabankulu Vuyolwethu O. , Maddila Suresh , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha B.
Published: June 2019

Four different lanthanide (Ce, Dy, Lu, and Sm) doped TiO2mesoporous materials were synthesised using the sol–gel method with titanium (IV) isopropoxide as the precursor. All of the synthesized materials were characterised using different analytical techniques, BET, PXRD, TEM, SEM-EDX, Raman, FTIR, photoluminescence, and UV-DRS spectroscopy. Photocatalytic activity and efficacy of the materials in the degradation of caffeine in aqueous solutions was investigated under visible light illumination. Although all materials showed good photocatalytic activity, Ce-doped TiO2exhibited relatively better activity than the other three catalysts. High photoactivity of the catalysts was attributed to the presence of lanthanides and their ability to generate ions that scavenge electrons under visible light, thereby enhancing photodegradation of caffeine. All materials proved to be good and were recyclable without loss of catalytic activity up to three runs. An intermediate [N-1,3,6-trimethyl-2,4-dioxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidin-5-yl)formamide] (TDTF) and two products (6-amino-1,3-dimethyl-2,4-dioxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropymidin-5-ly)-(methyl)-carbamic acid (ATCA) and N-methyl-N-(methylcarbomoyl)-2-oxoacetamide (MMO) were identified by the LC–MS spectra.
Interpreting basal sediments and plant fossils in kettle lakes: insights from Silver Lake, Michigan, USA
Authors: Yansa Catherine H. , Fulton Albert E. , Schaetzl Randall J. , Kettle Jennifer M. , Arbogast Alan F.
Published: June 2019

We report on pollen, plant macrofossils, and associated lithostratigraphy of a sediment core extracted from the base of Silver Lake, a kettle lake in northern Lower Michigan, USA, which reveal a complex deglacial scenario for ice block melting and lake formation, and subsequent plant colonization. Complementary multivariate statistical and squared chord distance analyses of the pollen data support these interpretations. The basal radiocarbon age from the core (17 540 cal years BP) is rejected as being anomalously old, based on biostratigraphic anomalies in the core and the date’s incongruity with respect to the accepted regional deglaciation chronology. We reason that this erroneous age estimate resulted from the redeposition of middle-Wisconsin-age fossils by the ice sheet, mixed with the remains of plants that existed as the kettle lake formed at ca. 10 940 cal years BP by ice block ablation. Thereafter, the kettle lake became a reliable repository of Holocene-age fossils, documenting a mature boreal forest that existed until 10 640 cal years BP, followed by a pine-dominated mixed forest, an early variant of the mixed conifer–hardwood forest that persists to the present day. Our study demonstrates that researchers investigating kettle lakes, a common depositional archive for plant fossils in deglaciated landscapes, should exercise caution in interpreting the basal (Late Pleistocene/early Holocene-age) part of lake sediment cores.
Co-occurrence patterns between bacterial and fungal communities in response to a vegetation gradient in a freshwater wetland
Authors: Chen Minghua , He Shiyao , Li Jinqian , Hu Wanjin , Ma Yantian , Wu Lan , Gang Ge
Published: June 2019

Vegetation dynamics are known to influence belowground microbial community diversity and ecosystem processes in wetlands. However, the knowledge on microbe–microbe interactions in response to vegetation changes is scarce. In this study, we investigated how bacterial and fungal community composition, as well as bacterial–fungal community interactions, altered along a vegetation gradient in the Poyang Lake wetland. Surface soil and sediment samples were collected from three vegetation zones: dense, sparse, and naked. Vegetation zones differed in terms of dominant plant species, plant diversity, and vegetation coverage. Using Illumina MiSeq sequencing and network analysis of bacteria 16S rRNA and fungal ITS genes, we found that both bacterial and fungal community profiles varied according to vegetation conditions; in particular, the dense vegetation zone facilitated higher microbial abundance and a greater fungi to bacteria ratio. Co-occurrence analysis revealed that fungi–bacteria interactions were strong on vegetated zones, especially in the dense vegetation zone. However, a weak fungi–bacteria association was observed in the naked zone. Our results indicated that aboveground vegetation may act as a hotspot for organic matter accumulation, microbial growth, and microbe–microbe interactions, whereas fungi and bacteria prefer to distribute into niches based on their own nutritional preferences and functional specificity in bare ground.
One-dimensional quantum mechanics with Dunkl derivative
Authors: Chung Won Sang , Hassanabadi Hassan
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we consider the quantum mechanics with Dunkl derivative. We use the Dunkl derivative to obtain the coordinate representation of the momentum operator and Hamiltonian. We introduce the scalar product to find that the momentum is Hermitian under this inner product. We study the one-dimensional box problem (the spin-less particle with mass m confined to the one-dimensional infinite wall). Finally, we discuss the harmonic oscillator problem.
The field equations in a three-dimensional commutative space
Authors: Chen Mu Yi , Nyeo Su-Long
Published: June 2019

The field equations in a three-dimensional commutative space based on a set of commutation relations are derived. In this space, the commutation relation of the position and kinematic momentum of a particle is generalized to include a metric tensor field in addition to a vector field. The introduction of a metric tensor is a generalization of the commutation relation for Feynman’s proof of the Maxwell equations. In this paper, as the equations of motion and the field equations are classical, the Poisson bracket and not the commutation relation is used in the calculations.

As the commutative space is defined by the Poisson bracket, the equations of motion for the particle and the field equations for the metric tensor and vector are derived from the Poisson bracket in Hamiltonian mechanics. The Helmholtz conditions, which express the existence of a Lagrangian for a particle in the space, are also derived from the Poisson bracket. Then the field equations are calculated explicitly by two approaches. One is to calculate the Helmholtz conditions using the equations of motion. The other is to calculate the Jacobi identity for the kinematic momentum or velocity of the particle. In addition to the homogeneous Maxwell equations, the generalized field equations are obtained to define the generalized electric and magnetic fields of the tensor field. Just like the usual electric and magnetic fields, the generalized fields are invariant under a local gauge transformation and should play significant roles in physics.

Finally, the homogeneous Maxwell equations of the vector field are seen to exhibit similarities with the generalized field equations for the tensor field. This similarity provides a useful theoretical framework for constructing gravitoelectromagnetism, which is based on analogies between the equations for electromagnetism and relativistic gravitation. It remains to establish the usefulness of the theoretical framework with applications of the field equations.
Lifshitz-type gauge theory with 𝒩 = 2 supersymmetry
Authors: Mohan Akhila , Madhu Kallingalthodi , Sunilkumar V.
Published: June 2019

We construct an [Formula: see text] supersymmetric gauge theory in Lifshitz space–time. Starting with [Formula: see text] supersymmetric Lagrangian, we introduce an additional [Formula: see text] symmetry between specific component fields. The resultant Lagrangian is shown to have an extra set of supersymmetry, thus realizing an on-shell [Formula: see text] supersymmetric gauge theory. Just as in the case of [Formula: see text], the superderivatives and superfields involved contain higher-order derivatives of spatial coordinates. The constructed [Formula: see text] supersymmetric Lagrangian has both vector multiplet and hypermultiplet.
The Jacobi Stability of a Lorenz-Type Multistable Hyperchaotic System with a Curve of Equilibria
Authors: Chen Yuming , Yin Zongbin
Published: June 2019

In this paper, a 4D Lorenz-type multistable hyperchaotic system with a curve of equilibria is investigated by using differential geometry method, i.e. with KCC-theory. Due to the deviation curvature tensor and its eigenvalues, the curve of equilibria of this hyperchaotic system is proved analytically to be Jacobi unstable under a certain parameter condition, and a periodic orbit of this system is proved numerically to be also Jacobi unstable. Furthermore, the dynamics of contravariant vector field near the curve of equilibria and the periodic orbit are studied, respectively, and their results comply absolutely with the above analysis of Jacobi stability.
Modeling pKas of unfolded proteins to probe structural models of unfolded state
Authors: Tajielyato Nayere , Alexov Emil
Published: June 2019

Modeling unfolded states of proteins has implications for protein folding and stability. Since in unfolded state proteins adopt multiple conformations, any experimentally measured quantity is ensemble averaged, therefore the computed quantity should be ensemble averaged as well. Here, we investigate the possibility that one can model an unfolded state ensemble with the coil model approach, algorithm such as “flexible-meccano” [Ozenne V et al., Flexible-meccano: A tool for the generation of explicit ensemle descriptions of intrinsically disordered proteins and their associated experimental observables, Bioinformatics 28:1463–1470, 2012], developed to generate structures for intrinsically disordered proteins. We probe such a possibility by using generated structures to calculate pKas of titratable groups and compare with experimental data. It is demonstrated that even with a small number of representative structures of unfolded state, the average calculated pKas are in very good agreement with experimentally measured pKas. Also, predictions are made for titratable groups for which there is no experimental data available. This suggests that the coil model approach is suitable for generating 3D structures of unfolded state of proteins. To make the approach suitable for large-scale modeling, which requires limited number of structures, we ranked the structures according to their solvent accessible surface area (SASA). It is shown that in the majority of cases, the top structures with smallest SASA are enough to represent unfolded state.
Overcoming the penetration depth limit in optical microscopy: Adaptive optics and wavefront shaping
Authors: Ahn Cheolwoo , Hwang Byungjae , Nam Kibum , Jin Hyungwon , Woo Taeseong , Park Jung-Hoon
Published: June 2019

Despite the unique advantages of optical microscopy for molecular specific high resolution imaging of living structure in both space and time, current applications are mostly limited to research settings. This is due to the aberrations and multiple scattering that is induced by the inhomogeneous refractive boundaries that are inherent to biological systems. However, recent developments in adaptive optics and wavefront shaping have shown that high resolution optical imaging is not fundamentally limited only to the observation of single cells, but can be significantly enhanced to realize deep tissue imaging. To provide insight into how these two closely related fields can expand the limits of bio imaging, we review the recent progresses in their performance and applicable range of studies as well as potential future research directions to push the limits of deep tissue imaging.
The Effects of Adaptive Synchronization on Performance and Experience in Gameplay
Authors: Watson Benjamin , Shrivastava Rachit , Gavane Ajinkya
Published: June 2019

Adaptive synchronization (Async) is a recent display technology that lowers frame time mean and variation by altering communication between display and GPU. While conventional graphics systems introduce delay to match irregular GPU frame rates to regular display refresh rates, Async systems instead match display refresh rates to to irregular frame rates. Both NVIDIA and AMD claim that Async displays improve experience for enthusiast gamers. In a first, controlled examination of these claims with non-professionals playing a popular first-person shooter, we find that Async improves gaming performance, can improve experience, and has intriguing relationships to game familiarity and years of gameplay.
Cigarette and ENDS preparations differentially regulate ion channels and mucociliary clearance in primary normal human bronchial 3D cultures
Authors: Rayner Rachael E. , Makena Patrudu , Prasad Gaddamanugu L. , Cormet-Boyaka Estelle
Published: June 2019

Cigarette smoking is known to disrupt the normal mucociliary function of the lungs, whereas the effect of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) is not completely understood. This study aimed to compare the effects of acute exposure of primary normal human bronchial epithelial (NHBE) 3D cultures at air-liquid interface to combustible cigarette and ENDS preparations on mucociliary function, including ion channel function, ciliary beat frequency (CBF), and airway surface liquid (ASL) height. Differentiated NHBE cultures were exposed to whole smoke-conditioned media (WS-CM) or total particulate matter (TPM) prepared from 3R4F reference cigarettes, whole aerosol-conditioned media (ACM) or e-TPM generated from a marketed ENDS product, or nicotine alone. We found that a dose of 7 μg/mL equi-nicotine units of cigarette TPM and WS-CM significantly decreased cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) and the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) function, which regulates fluid homeostasis in the lung. Conversely, higher (56 µg/mL) equi-nicotine units of ENDS preparations or nicotine alone had no effect on CFTR and ENaC function. Despite a significant decrease in ion channel function, cigarette smoke preparations did not alter CBF and ASL. Similarly, ENDS preparations and nicotine alone had no effect on ASL and CBF. This study demonstrates that acute exposures of cigarette smoke preparations exert a notable inhibitory effect on CFTR and ENaC function compared with ENDS preparations. In summary, the functional assays described herein are potentially useful for tobacco product evaluations.
Effects of Environmental Factors on Ozone Flux over a Wheat Field Modeled with an Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Zhu Zhilin
Published: June 2019

Ozone (O3) flux-based indices are considered better than O3 concentration-based indices in assessing the effects of ground O3 on ecosystem and crop yields. However, O3 flux (Fo) measurements are often lacking due to technical reasons and environmental conditions. This hampers the calculation of flux-based indices. In this paper, an artificial neural network (ANN) method was attempted to simulate the relationships between Fo and environmental factors measured over a wheat field in Yucheng, China. The results show that the ANN-modeled Fo values were in good agreement with the measured Fo values. The R2 of an ANN model with 6 routine independent environmental variables exceeded 0.8 for training datasets, and the RMSE and MAE were 3.074 nmol·m−2·s and 2.276 nmol·m−2·s for test dataset, respectively. CO2 flux and water vapor flux have strong correlations with Fo and could improve the fitness of ANN models. Besides the combinations of included variables and selection of training data, the number of neurons is also a source of uncertainties in an ANN model. The fitness of the modeled Fo was sensitive to the neuron number when it ranged from 1 to 10. The ANN model consists of complex arithmetic expressions between Fo and independent variables, and the response analysis shows that the model can reflect their basic physical relationships and importance. O3 concentration, global radiation, and wind speed are the important factors affecting O3 deposition. ANN methods exhibit significant value for filling the gaps of Fo measured with micrometeorological methods.
Suppression of Mouse AApoAII Amyloidosis Progression by Daily Supplementation with Oxidative Stress Inhibitors
Authors: Dai Jian , Ding Xin , Miyahara Hiroki , Xu Zhe , Cui Xiaoran , Igarashi Yuichi , Sawashita Jinko , Mori Masayuki , Higuchi Keiichi
Published: June 2019

Amyloidosis is a group of diseases characterized by protein misfolding and aggregation to form amyloid fibrils and subsequent deposition within various tissues. Previous studies have indicated that amyloidosis is often associated with oxidative stress. However, it is not clear whether oxidative stress is involved in the progression of amyloidosis. We administered the oxidative stress inhibitors tempol and apocynin via drinking water to the R1.P1-Apoa2cmouse strain induced to develop mouse apolipoprotein A-II (AApoAII) amyloidosis and found that treatment with oxidative stress inhibitors led to reduction in AApoAII amyloidosis progression compared to an untreated group after 12 weeks, especially in the skin, stomach, and liver. There was no effect on ApoA-II plasma levels or expression ofApoa2mRNA. Detection of the lipid peroxidation markers 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and malondialdehyde (MDA) revealed that the antioxidative effects of the treatments were most obvious in the skin, stomach, and liver, which contained higher levels of basal oxidative stress. Moreover, the unfolded protein response was reduced in the liver and was associated with a decrease in oxidative stress and amyloid deposition. These results suggest that antioxidants can suppress the progression of AApoAII amyloid deposition in the improved microenvironment of tissues and that the effect may be related to the levels of oxidative stress in local tissues. This finding provides insights for antioxidative stress treatment strategies for amyloidosis.
The Intervention Effect of Traditional Chinese Medicine on the Intestinal Flora and Its Metabolites in Glycolipid Metabolic Disorders
Authors: Di Sha , Wang Yitian , Han Lin , Bao Qi , Gao Zezheng , Wang Qing , Yang Yingying , Zhao Linhua , Tong Xiaolin
Published: June 2019

Metabolic syndrome (MS), which includes metabolic disorders such as protein disorder, glucose disorder, lipid disorder, and carbohydrate disorder, has been growing rapidly around the world. Glycolipid disorders are a main type of metabolic syndrome and are characterized by abdominal obesity and abnormal metabolic disorders of lipid, glucose, and carbohydrate utilization, which can cause cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Glycolipid disorders are closely related to intestinal flora and its metabolites. However, studies about the biological mechanisms of the intestinal flora and its metabolites with glycolipid disorders have not been clear. When glycolipid disorders are treated with drugs, a challenging problem is side effects. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and dietary supplements have fewer side effects to treat it. Numerous basic and clinical studies have confirmed that TCM decoctions, Chinese medicine monomers, or compounds can treat glycolipid disorders and reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease. In this study, we reviewed the relationship between the intestinal flora and its metabolites in glycolipid metabolic disorders and the effect of TCM in treating glycolipid metabolic disorders through the intestinal flora and its metabolites. This review provides new perspectives and strategies for future glycolipid disorders research and treatment.
Endometrioma of the Liver: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Rana Prachi , Haghighat Shida , Han Hyosun
Published: June 2019

Hepatic endometriosis is a rare form of endometriosis first described by Finkel in 1986. A thorough review of the literature revealed 28 cases of hepatic endometriosis. This unusual condition offers several diagnostic challenges due to its variable appearance on imaging and need for histologic analysis to establish a definitive diagnosis. We present a 42-year-old female initially treated for presumed hydatid cyst that was later found to be endometriosis in the liver. The case highlights the importance of considering endometriosis in the differential for a patient presenting with a solitary liver mass regardless of age and previous history of endometriosis.
Application of Laplace Transform on Fractional Kinetic Equation Pertaining to the Generalized Galué Type Struve Function
Authors: Habenom Haile , Suthar D. L. , Gebeyehu Melaku
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we establish extensive form of the fractional kinetic equation involving generalized Galué type Struve function using the technique of Laplace transforms. The results are expressed in terms of Mittag-Leffler function. Further, numerical values of the results and their graphical interpretation are interpreted to study the behaviour of these solutions. The results obtained here are quite general in nature and capable of yielding a very large number of known and (presumably) new results.
Generalized Performance Measures of X- Control Charts Based on Different Sampling Schemes
Authors: Mehmood Rashid , Lee Muhammed Hisyam , Riaz Muhammad , Ali Iftikhar
Published: June 2019

Different versions of X- control chart structure are available under various ranked set strategies. In these control charts, computation of performance measures was carried out through Monte Carlo simulation method (MCSM). In this article, we have defined a generalized structure of X- control charts under variant sampling strategies followed by derivation of their different performance measures. For the derivation of different performance measures, we have proposed pivotal quantity. For comparative analysis, we have presented results of generalized performance measures by involving numerical method (NM) as computation. We found that values of generalized performance measures based on NM are almost similar to values of performance measures based on MCSM. Also, NM is time efficient and can be considered as an alternative of MCSM.
Assessment of Heavy and Toxic Metals in the Blood and Hair of Saudi Arabia Smokers Using Modern Analytical Techniques
Authors: Alrobaian Majed , Arida Hassan
Published: June 2019

Epidemiological studies on the heavy and toxic metal content in the human blood and hair of some smokers from Saudi Arabia were carried out by modern analytical techniques. The levels of some selected heavy and toxic metals (e.g.; Hg, Pb, Cd, As, Se, Mn, Zn, Ni, and Cr) were determined using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometer (ICP-AES). Prior to the analysis, the blood and hair samples of Saudi Arabia smokers were collected, treated, and digested by microwave digestion system. The number of cigarettes per day as well as the smoking period was taken in consideration in this study. The tested elements concentrations in the investigated smoker blood and hair samples were compared with those obtained from some nonsmoking control samples. The samples were collected from the psychiatric hospital in Taif city after issuing the ethical committee license in this regard. The results obtained from this study represent a very important guide for the antismoking organizations. The assessment of some side effects of the smoking in such studies presents vital challenge for the social antismoking authorities and the stakeholder governments to attain the sustainable investment for their people.
Influence of Ground Temperature on Shotcrete-to-Rock Adhesion in Tunnels
Authors: Duan Limin , Zhang Yuanhang , Lai Jinxing
Published: June 2019

Long and deep tunnels are increasingly designed and built worldwide, often in severe geothermal environments characterized by high temperature in the rocks. This issue cannot be ignored because high temperature definitely affects the strength of the adhesion between the concrete and the surrounding rocks, whatever the lining cast in place, segmental or sprayed using shotcrete. The causes of geothermal heat and the effect of the temperature on tunnel linings during and after their construction are recalled and discussed in this paper. Both temperature and humidity are shown to be the most relevant factors affecting adhesion strength, whose loss is related to the microdamage in the shotcrete layers closest to the rock. Possible ways to improve adhesion strength and to minimize the high-temperature detrimental effect are also presented and discussed.
PKHB1 Tumor Cell Lysate Induces Antitumor Immune System Stimulation and Tumor Regression in Syngeneic Mice with Tumoral T Lymphoblasts
Authors: Martínez-Torres Ana Carolina , Calvillo-Rodríguez Kenny Misael , Uscanga-Palomeque Ashanti Concepción , Gómez-Morales Luis , Mendoza-Reveles Rodolfo , Caballero-Hernández Diana , Karoyan Philippe , Rodríguez-Padilla Cristina
Published: June 2019

Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is the most common pediatric cancer. Currently, treatment options for patients with relapsed and refractory ALL mostly rely on immunotherapies. However, hematological cancers are commonly associated with a low immunogenicity and immune tolerance, which may contribute to leukemia relapse and the difficulties associated with the development of effective immunotherapies against this disease. We recently demonstrated that PKHB1, a TSP1-derived CD47 agonist peptide, induces immunogenic cell death (ICD) in T cell ALL (T-ALL). Cell death induced by PKHB1 on T-ALL cell lines and their homologous murine, L5178Y-R (T-murine tumor lymphoblast cell line), induced damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) exposure and release. Additionally, a prophylactic vaccination with PKHB1-treated L5178Y-R cells prevented tumor establishment in vivo in all the cases. Due to the immunogenic potential of PKHB1-treated cells, in this study we assessed their ability to induce antitumor immune responses ex vivo and in vivo in an established tumor. We first confirmed the selectivity of cell death induced by PKBH1 in tumor L5178Y-R cells and observed that calreticulin exposure increased when cell death increased. Then, we found that the tumor cell lysate (TCL) obtained from PKHB1-treated L5178YR tumor cells (PKHB1-TCL) was able to induce, ex vivo, dendritic cells maturation, cytokine production, and T cell antitumor responses. Finally, our results show that in vivo, PKHB1-TCL treatment induces tumor regression in syngeneic mice transplanted with L5178Y-R cells, increasing their overall survival and protecting them from further tumor establishment after tumor rechallenge. Altogether our results highlight the immunogenicity of the cell death induced by PKHB1 activation of CD47 as a potential therapeutic tool to overcome the low immunogenicity and immune tolerance in T-ALL.
Genomic Evolutionary Patterns of Leiomyosarcoma and Liposarcoma
Authors: Amin-Mansour Ali , George Suzanne , Sioletic Stefano , Carter Scott L. , Rosenberg Mara , Taylor-Weiner Amaro , Stewart Chip , Chevalier Aaron , Seepo Sara , Tracy Adam , Getz Gad , Hornick Jason L. , Nucci Marisa R. , Quade Bradley , Demetri George D. , Raut Chandrajit P. , Garraway Levi A. , Van Allen Eliezer M. , Wagner Andrew J.
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

Leiomyosarcoma and liposarcoma are common subtypes of soft tissue sarcoma (STS). Patients with metastatic leiomyosarcoma or dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) typically have worse outcomes compared with localized leiomyosarcoma or well-differentiated liposarcoma (WDLPS). A better understanding of genetic changes between primary/metastatic leiomyosarcoma and between WDLPS/DDLPS may provide insight into their genetic evolution.

Experimental Design:

We interrogated whole-exome sequencing (WES) from “trios” of normal tissue, primary tumor, and metastatic tumor from individual patients with leiomyosarcoma (n = 9), and trios of normal tissue, well-differentiated tumor, and dedifferentiated tumor from individual patients with liposarcoma (n = 19). Specifically, we performed mutational, copy number, and tumor evolution analyses on these cohorts and compared patterns among leiomyosarcoma and liposarcoma trios.

Results:

Leiomyosarcoma cases harbored shared drivers through a typical parent/child relationship where the metastatic tumor was derived from the primary tumor. In contrast, while all liposarcoma cases shared the characteristic focal chromosome 12 amplicon, most paired liposarcoma cases did not share additional mutations, suggesting a divergent evolutionary pattern from a common precursor. No highly recurrent genomic alterations from WES were identified that could be implicated as driving the progression of disease in either sarcoma subtype.

Conclusions:

From a genomic perspective, leiomyosarcoma metastases contain genetic alterations that are also found in primary tumors. WDLPS and DDLPS, however, appear to divergently evolve from a common precursor harboring 12q amplification, rather than as a transformation to a higher-grade tumor. Further efforts to identify specific drivers of these distinct evolutionary patterns may inform future translational and clinical research in STS.