bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bone health in symptomatic carriers of haemophilia A: a protocol for a multicentre prospective matched-cohort study
Authors: Tang Grace H , Norris Erin , Petrucci Jessica , James Paula D , Lee Adrienne , Poon Man-Chiu , Floros Georgina , Boma-Fischer Laurence , Teitel Jerry , Nisenbaum Rosane , Sholzberg Michelle
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Haemophilia A is an X linked inherited bleeding disorder, caused by a decrease in coagulation factor VIII. Persons with haemophilia experience repeated musculoskeletal bleeding, which can lead to decreased range of motion, irreversible joint damage, low bone mineral density (BMD), and are at greater risk for osteoporosis. Women heterozygous for this mutation, also known as haemophilia A carriers, can have bleeding symptoms and even experience joint bleeding evidenced by radiological soft tissue and osteochondral changes. The prevalence of low BMD as a risk factor for osteoporosis has never been evaluated in carriers of haemophilia, and given the recent findings which suggest subclinical musculoskeletal bleeding in carrier women, we hypothesise that they too are at risk of impaired bone health.

Methods and analysis

This is a national multicentre prospective matched-cohort study to compare BMD T-scores among symptomatic haemophilia A carriers, 50 years of age or older, with age-matched and body mass index-matched non-carriers (1:1). A total of 40 symptomatic carriers and 40 matched non-carriers will be recruited from St. Michael’s Hospital, Kingston General Hospital in Ontario, Canada and Foothills Medical Centre in Alberta, Canada. Multivariable linear regression models will be used to estimate the effect of haemophilia carriership on BMD T-scores, adjusting for age, body mass index and other relevant covariates.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol was designed and will be conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. Research ethics approval was obtained from St. Michael’s Hospital, Foothills Medical Centre, and Kingston General Hospital. Findings will be presented at international venues such as the American Society of Haematology and the World Federation of Haemophilia World Congress. The authors of this study will seek publication in journals such as Blood, Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, American Journal ofHematology and British Journal ofHaematology.
Introduction of an electronic patient record (EPR) improves operation note documentation: the results of a closed loop audit and proposal of a team-based approach to documentation
Authors: Aldoori Joanna , Drye Naomi , Peter Mark , Barrie Jenifer
Published: December 2019

An operation note is a medicolegal document. The Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) of England’s Good Surgical Practice 2014 (GSP) sets out 19 points an operation note should include. This study aimed to assess if the introduction of an electronic patient record (EPR) improved the quality of general surgical operation notes. An annonymised retrospective case note review of general surgical operation notes was undertaken over five separate time periods. The first cycle consisted of periods 1 (prior to EPR implementation), 2 (1 week after EPR) and 3 (4 weeks after EPR). Period 4 was a reaudit 2 weeks after the initial results were presented at the local governance meeting. The cycle was then closed with period 5; 1 year after EPR implementation. A comparison was across all 5 time periods for compliance with the RCS guidelines and with subanalysis of the individual categories. 250 operation notes were reviewed during five time periods. Compliance improved by almost 19% (p=0.0003) between periods 1 and 5. Eleven of the 19 points (57.9%) over the audit period achieved 100% compliance post-EPR compared to 0% prior. Poor compliance were noted in the categories of antibiotic use, venous thromboembolism prophylaxis and estimated blood loss (noting that these are often documented in the anaesthetic record and/or WHO checklist). EPRs do not guarantee compliance with GSP. We propose that GSP standards need to be updated to reflect the modernisation of medical records and a team-based approach with multimodality input sources would achieve better patient records and patient care.
Twelve-month outcome in patients with stroke and atrial fibrillation not suitable to oral anticoagulant strategy: the WATCH-AF registry
Authors: Guidoux Celine , Meseguer Elena , Ong Elodie , Lavallée Philippa C , Hobeanu Cristina , Monteiro-Tavares Linsay , Charles Hugo , Cabrejo Lucie , Martin-Bechet Anna , Rigual Ricardo , Nighoghossian Norbert , Amarenco Pierre
Published: December 2019

Aims

Long-term oral anticoagulant (LTOAC) reduces ischaemic stroke recurrences. Because of bleeding history, frailty, cognitive impairment, comorbidities or patient refusal, many cannot be discharged from stroke unit on LTOAC. Proportion and outcome of these patients is not well known.

Methods

The Warfarin Aspirin Ten-a inhibitor Cerebral infarction and Haemorrhage and atrial fibrillation (AF) prospective registry enrolled consecutive patients with an acute stroke associated with AF. Scales to evaluate stroke severity, disability, functional independence, cognition, risk of fall, ischaemic and haemorrhagic risk stratification were systematically collected at admission, discharge, 3 and 12 months poststroke. The two main 12-month endpoints were death or dependency (modified Rankin Scale >3) and recurrent stroke.

Results

Among 400 patients (370 brain infarctions, 30 brain haemorrhages), 274 were discharged on LTOAC, 31 died before discharge and 95 (24%) were not discharge on anticoagulant (frailty, bedridden or demented, EHRA/ESC contraindication to anticoagulant). Death or dependency and recurrent stroke occurred in 19.8% and 9.9%, respectively, in patient on anticoagulant, and 33.5% and 27.2% in those not on anticoagulant (both p<0.001). Patient not anticoagulated at discharge had a 1.6-fold increase in the risk of death or dependency at 12 months (HR 1.65; 95% CI 1.05 to 2.61; p=0.032) and a 2.5-fold increase in the risk of stroke (HR 2.46; 95% CI 1.36 to 4.44; p=0.003).

Conclusions

One-fourth of patients with stroke associated with AF are not discharged on anticoagulation and have a dramatic increase in the risk of death or dependency at 12 months as well as recurrent stroke. Alternative treatments should be trialled in these patients.
Isolation and utilization of cellulosic elements from the plant cell wall
Authors: Gray Derek G.
Published: December 2019

Two very different types of cellulosic materials that may be isolated from plant-based sources are reviewed herein. We have shown that long helical cellulosic coils may be isolated by gentle chemical treatment of leaf petioles. The coils stem from protoxylem elements and are readily distinguished from other cellulosic components by polarized light microscopy, forming single- or multistranded left-handed helices. More widely known are the nanometer thickness cellulosic elements that may also be isolated from plant cell walls. These nanocelluloses can be subdivided into two main families. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are less than 250 nm long and are usually made by sulfuric acid hydrolysis. CNCs form stable liquid crystalline suspensions in water that dry to give iridescent coloured films, analogous to those found in some tropical plants. Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) are much longer and may have carboxyl groups on the surface. Both CNCs and CNFs are intrinsically hydrophilic and form useful aqueous gels and viscosity modifiers. By altering the surface chemistry, the nanocelluloses can also be incorporated as strengthening agents in composite materials. A wide range of commercial applications for these renewable materials has been proposed.
Holographic complexity of Born–Infeld black holes
Authors: Meng Kun
Published: December 2019

In this paper, according to CA duality, we study complexity growth of Born–Infeld (BI) black holes. As a comparison, we study action growth of dyonic black holes in Einstein–Maxwell gravity at the beginning. We study action growth of electric BI black holes in dRGT massive gravity, and find BI black holes in massive gravity complexify faster than the Einstein gravity counterparts. We study action growth of the purely electric and magnetic Einstein–Born–Infeld (EBI) black holes in general dimensions and the dyonic EBI black holes in four-dimensions, and find the manners of action growth are different between electric and magnetic EBI black holes. In all the gravity systems we considered, we find action growth rates vanish for the purely magnetic black holes, which is unexpected. In order to ameliorate the situation, we add the boundary term of matter field to the action and discuss the outcomes of the addition.
Genetic Screens to Analyze Pattern Formation of Egg and Embryo in Drosophila: A Personal History
Authors: Schüpbach Trudi
Published: December 2019

In Drosophila development, the axes of the egg and future embryo are established during oogenesis. To learn about the underlying genetic and molecular pathways that lead to axis formation, I conducted a large-scale genetic screen at the beginning of my independent career. This led to the eventual understanding that both anterior-posterior and dorsal-ventral pattern information is transmitted from the oocyte to the surrounding follicle cells and in turn from the follicle cells back to the oocyte. How I came to conduct this screen and what further insights were gained by studying the mutants isolated in the screen are the topics of this autobiographical article.
Experiments on Reducing Negative Skin Friction of Piles
Authors: Feng Zhongju , Hu Haibo , Zhao Ruixin , He Jingbin , Dong Yunxiu , Feng Kai , Zhao Yawan , Chen Huiyun
Published: December 2019

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of different moisture contents of clay (13%, 15%, 17%, 19%, and 21%) and different coatings on the ability to reduce negative skin friction during a large‐scale shear test. Four coating treatments of the concrete surface were investigated, i.e., no treatment, coating with a paraffin‐oil mixture, coating with a polymer nanomaterial, and coating with paint. The results showed that when the moisture content of the clay was slightly larger than that of the plastic limit, the ability to reduce negative skin friction was the best, and the performance was similar for the paraffin‐oil mixture, the polymer nanomaterial, and the paint. When the moisture content of the clay was lower than that of the plastic limit, the paraffin‐oil mixture provided the best performance. The position of the neutral point can be determined by different methods, and the negative skin friction of piles should be reduced by applying coatings that are most suitable to different conditions.
Optimization of Phenolic Compound Extraction from Chinese Moringa oleifera Leaves and Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Zhao Beibei , Deng Jiawen , Li Hua , He Yaqiang , Lan Tao , Wu Di , Gong Haodi , Zhang Yan , Chen Zhicheng
Published: December 2019

Rich in phenolic compounds, Moringa oleifera leaf extract (ME) exhibits significant antioxidant activity both in vitro and in vivo. ME has already been widely used in fields of medicine, functional food, and cosmetics. Ultrasonic extraction (UE) method has been improved to be one of the most effective ways to extract phenols from M. oleifera leaves. The purpose of this study was to optimize ultrasonic extraction of phenols by response surface methodology (RSM). Four parameters were discussed, such as ethanol concentration, solvent-sample ratio, extraction temperature, and extraction time. Also, purification methods of the crude ME by organic solvent extraction and column chromatography were examined. Antioxidant activities of ME and each fraction were evaluated by DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxy radical-scavenging activities and reducing power. The phenol content of the purified ME reached up to 962.6 mg RE/g, extremely higher than the crude extract 107.22 ± 1.93 mg RE/g. The antioxidant activity of the purified ME was also significantly improved. Furthermore, phenols were identified by using the HPLC-MS method, and the results showed that there were 6 phenolic acids and derivatives and 7 flavonoids in ME. Quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucoside isolated from ME showed excellent DPPH and ABTS radical-scavenging abilities, which were comparable to VC.
A Method for the Isolation of Exosomes from Human and Bovine Milk
Authors: Vaswani Kanchan , Mitchell Murray D. , Holland Olivia J. , Qin Koh Yong , Hill Rebecca J. , Harb Tracy , Davies Peter S. W. , Peiris Hassendrini
Published: December 2019

Scope. Milk provides a natural means of nutrient supply to infants. Exosomes are an important component of milk that are not only being studied for their promise in translational medicine but also in infant nutrition. They also play important roles in intercellular communication and immune function in mammary glands and are able to transfer their materials to the recipient. Therefore, the isolation of high-quality exosomes is an important aspect of exosome research. Methods and Results. This study is a technical study, which provides a detailed methodology for the isolation and enrichment of exosomes from milk. In this study, we evaluate the suitability of using the exosome enrichment method that we have recently published for bovine milk, on human milk. We initially isolated extracellular vesicles from human and bovine milk on a fresh set of samples, using ultracentrifugation, and then exosomes were subsequently enriched via size exclusion chromatography (SEC). Following isolation and enrichment, exosomes from both species were characterized by particle concentration (nanoparticle tracking analysis, NTA), morphology (transmission electron microscopy, TEM), and the presence of exosomal markers (immunoblotting and mass spectrometry using information dependant acquisition (IDA)). The key exosomal characteristics of spherical/donut-shaped morphology, the presence of exosomal markers, e.g., FLOT-1 and the tetraspanins, CD9 and CD81), and particle concentration were confirmed in both human and bovine milk exosomes. Conclusion. We conclude that our robust exosome enrichment method, previously published for bovine milk, is suitable for use on human milk.
Tetramethylpyrazine Attenuates the Endotheliotoxicity and the Mitochondrial Dysfunction by Doxorubicin via 14-3-3γ/Bcl-2
Authors: Yang Bin , Li Hongwei , Qiao Yang , Zhou Qing , Chen Shuping , Yin Dong , He Huan , He Ming
Published: December 2019

Doxorubicin (Dox) with cardiotoxicity and endotheliotoxicity limits its clinical application for cancer. The toxicitic mechanism involves excess ROS generation. 14-3-3s have the protective effects on various injured tissues and cells. Tetramethylpyrazine (TMP) is an alkaloid extracted from the rhizome of Ligusticum wallichii and has multiple bioactivities. We hypothesize that TMP has the protective effects on vascular endothelium by upregulating 14-3-3γ. To test the hypothesis, Dox-induced endotheliotoxicity was used to establish vascular endothelium injury models in mice and human umbilical vein endothelial cells. The effects of TMP were assessed by determining thoracic aortic strips’ endothelium-dependent dilation (EDD), as well as LDH, CK, caspase-3, SOD, CAT, GSH-Px activities and MDA level in serum, apoptotic rate, and histopathological changes of vascular tissue (in vivo). Also, cell viability, LDH and caspase-3 activities, ROS generation, levels of NAD+/NADH and GSH/GSSG, MMP, mPTP opening, and apoptotic rate were evaluated (in vitro). The expression of 14-3-3γ and Bcl-2, as well as phosphorylation of Bad (S112), were determined by Western blot. Our results showed that Dox-induced injury to vascular endothelium was decreased by TMP via upregulating 14-3-3γ expression in total protein and Bcl-2 expression in mitochondria, activating Bad (S112) phosphorylation, maintaining EDD, reducing LDH, CK, and caspase-3 activities, thereby causing a reduction in apoptotic rate, and histopathological changes of vascular endothelium (in vivo). Furthermore, TMP increased cell viability and MMP levels, maintained NAD+/NADH, GSH/GSSG balance, decreased LDH and caspase-3 activities, ROS generation, mPTP opening, and apoptotic rate (in vitro). However, the protective effects to vascular endothelium of TMP were significantly canceled by pAD/14-3-3γ-shRNA, an adenovirus that caused knockdown 14-3-3γ expression, or ABT-737, a specific Bcl-2 inhibitor. In conclusion, this study is the first to demonstrate that TMP protects the vascular endothelium against Dox-induced injury via upregulating 14-3-3γ expression, promoting translocation of Bcl-2 to the mitochondria, closing mPTP, maintaining MMP, inhibiting RIRR mechanism, suppressing oxidative stress, improving mitochondrial function, and alleviating Dox-induced endotheliotoxicity.
Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture and Moxibustion in Pregnant Women with Noncephalic Presentation: An Overview of Systematic Reviews
Authors: Miranda-Garcia Maite , Domingo Gómez Cristina , Molinet-Coll Cristina , Nishishinya Betina , Allaoui Ikram , Gómez Roig M. Dolores , Goberna-Tricas Josefina
Published: December 2019

Background. Breech presentation at the time of delivery is 3.8–4%. Fetuses that maintain a noncephalic presentation beyond 32 weeks will have a lower probability of spontaneous version before labor. Given the increasing interest in exploring the use of complementary medicine during pregnancy and childbirth, the moxibustion technique, a type of traditional Chinese medicine, could be another option to try turning a breech baby into a cephalic presentation. Objectives. To review the evidence from systematic reviews (SR) on the efficacy and safety of acupuncture and moxibustion in pregnant women with noncephalic presentation. Main Results. Our SR synthesizes the results from five clinical trials on pregnant women with a singleton noncephalic presentation. There is evidence that moxibustion reduces the number of noncephalic presentations at the time of birth compared with no treatment. The adverse effects that acupuncture and moxibustion can cause seem to be irrelevant. Most SRs agree that there are no adverse effects directly related to acupuncture and moxibustion. Conclusions. Even though the results obtained are positive and the five reviews conclude that moxibustion reduces the number of noncephalic presentations at birth (alone or combined with postural techniques or acupuncture), there is considerable heterogeneity between them. Better methodologically designed studies are required in the future to reaffirm this conclusion.
Orofacial Granulomatosis in a Child
Authors: Razdan Reena , Newby Maxwell D. , Carr Michele M.
Published: December 2019

Orofacial granulomatosis (OFG) is a rare, idiopathic disorder of the orofacial region. It is clinically characterized by persistent and/or recurrent enlargement of the soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region, often manifesting as labial enlargement and swelling of intraoral sites such as the gingiva, tongue, and buccal mucosa. Full-thickness mucosal biopsy reveals noncaseating granulomatous inflammation, similar to Crohn’s disease and sarcoidosis. Thus, OFG must be distinguished from other chronic granulomatous disorders. We report a case of a young female patient who presented with labial and maxillary gingival enlargement without any identifiable systemic causes, with suggested involvement of environmental triggers.
Comparative Study of Microbiological Monitoring Results from Three Types of Sampling Methods after Gastrointestinal Endoscope Reprocessing
Authors: Ma Su , Feng Lili , Jiang Ziyi , Gao Xian , Long Xisha , Zhuang Shaonan , Ding Wenxia , Chen Taiyao , Li Zhaoshen , Zhang Lingjuan , Xi Huijun , Zhang Hongzhi
Published: December 2019

Objective. Compare the effects of three sampling methods on the microbiological monitoring results after reprocessing of gastrointestinal endoscopes, providing scientific basis for improving the monitoring quality of gastrointestinal endoscope cleaning and disinfection. Method. Gastrointestinal endoscopes after reprocessing were selected randomly at the gastrointestinal endoscopy center of a tertiary hospital in Shanghai from October 2018 to February 2019. The endoscopes selected were all sampled in three different methods under continuous sampling and intermittent sampling respectively. Methods used includes, the biopsy channel group (Group A), the entire channel group (Group B), and the disc brush group (Group C). Then the colony forming units (CFU/piece) were counted in the laboratory. Results. A total of 12 endoscopes were sampled by using continuous sampling approach, in which the detection rate of bacteria in disc brush group (33.3%) and entire channel group (33.3%) was higher than biopsy channel group (8.3%). Among the 12 endoscopes sampled with intermittent approach, the detection rate of bacteria from high to low was the disc brush group (50%), the entire channel group (41.7%), and the biopsy channel group (8.3%). Conclusion. Different sampling methods will lead to the difference of microbiological culture results after reprocessing of gastrointestinal endoscope, indicating that the improved sampling method is beneficial to objectively reflect the endoscope cleaning and disinfection effect, and improve the monitoring quality of endoscope disinfection.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid Protects Cardiomyocytes against Heat Stroke-Induced Apoptosis and Inflammatory Responses Associated with the Induction of Hsp70 and Activation of Autophagy
Authors: Shen Hsin-Hsueh , Tseng Yu-Shiuan , Kuo Ni-Chun , Kung Ching-Wen , Amin Sherif , Lam Kwok-Keung , Lee Yen-Mei
Published: December 2019

Heat stroke (HS) is a life-threatening illness and defined as when body temperature elevates above 40°C accompanied by the systemic inflammatory response syndrome that results in multiple organ dysfunctions. α-Lipoic acid (ALA) acts as a cofactor of mitochondrial enzymes and exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in a variety of diseases. This study investigates the beneficial effects of ALA on myocardial injury and organ damage caused by experimental HS and further explores its underlying mechanism. Male Wistar rats were exposed to 42°C until their rectal core temperature reached 42.9°C and ALA was pretreared 40 or 80 mg/kg (i.v.) 1.5 h prior to heat exposure. Results showed that HS-induced lethality and hypothermia were significantly alleviated by ALA treatment that also improved plasma levels of CRE, LDH, and CPK and myocardial injury biomarkers myoglobin and troponin. In addition, ALA reduced cardiac superoxide anion formation and protein expression of cleaved caspase 3 caused by HS. Proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α and NF-κB pathways were significantly reduced by ALA treatment which may be associated with the upregulation of Hsp70. ALA significantly increased the Atg5-12 complex and LC3B II/LC3B I ratio, whereas the p62 and p-mTOR expression was attenuated in HS rats, indicating the activation of autophagy by ALA. In conclusion, ALA ameliorated the deleterious effects of HS by exerting antioxidative and anti-inflammatory capacities. Induction of Hsp70 and activation of autophagy contribute to the protective effects of ALA in HS-induced myocardial injury.
FA-97, a New Synthetic Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester Derivative, Protects against Oxidative Stress-Mediated Neuronal Cell Apoptosis and Scopolamine-Induced Cognitive Impairment by Activating Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling
Authors: Wan Ting , Wang Zihao , Luo Yi , Zhang Yifan , He Wei , Mei Yu , Xue Jincheng , Li Min , Pan Huafeng , Li Weirong , Wang Qi , Huang Yujie
Published: December 2019

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder with cognitive deficits, which is becoming markedly more common in the world. Currently, the exact cause of AD is still unclear, and no curative therapy is available for preventing or mitigating the disease progression. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), a natural phenolic compound derived from honeybee hive propolis, has been reported as a potential therapeutic agent against AD, while its application is limited due to the low water solubility and poor bioavailability. Here, caffeic acid phenethyl ester 4-O-glucoside (FA-97) is synthesized. We validate that FA-97 attenuates H2O2-induced apoptosis in SH-SY5Y and PC12 cells and suppresses H2O2-induced oxidative stress by inhibiting the ROS level, malondialdehyde (MDA) level, and protein carbonylation level, as well as induces cellular glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Mechanistically, FA-97 promotes the nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity of Nrf2 associated with the upregulated expression of HO-1 and NQO-1. The prime importance of Nrf2 activation in the neuroprotective and antioxidant effects of FA-97 is verified by Nrf2 siRNA transfection. In addition, FA-97 prevents scopolamine- (SCOP-) induced learning and memory impairments in vivo via reducing neuronal apoptosis and protecting against cholinergic system dysfunction in the hippocampus and cortex. Moreover, the increased MDA level and low total antioxidant capacity in SCOP-treated mouse brains are reversed by FA-97, with the increased expression of HO-1, NQO-1, and nuclear Nrf2. In conclusion, FA-97 protects against oxidative stress-mediated neuronal cell apoptosis and SCOP-induced cognitive impairment by activating Nrf2/HO-1 signaling, which might be developed as a therapeutic drug for AD.
Mechanisms of Anthracycline-Enhanced Reactive Oxygen Metabolism in Tumor Cells
Authors: Doroshow James H.
Published: December 2019

In this investigation, we examined the effect of anthracycline antibiotics on oxygen radical metabolism in Ehrlich tumor cells. In tumor microsomes and nuclei, doxorubicin increased superoxide anion production in a dose-dependent fashion that appeared to follow saturation kinetics; the apparentKmandVmaxfor superoxide formation by these organelles was 124.9 μM and 22.6 nmol/min/mg, and 103.4 μM and 4.8 nmol/min/mg, respectively. In both tumor microsomes and nuclei, superoxide formation required NADPH as a cofactor, was accompanied by the formation of hydrogen peroxide, and resulted from the transfer of electrons from NADPH to the doxorubicin quinone by NADPH:cytochrome P-450 reductase (NADPH:ferricytochrome oxidoreductase, EC 1.6.2.4). Anthracycline antibiotics also significantly enhanced superoxide anion production by tumor mitochondria with an apparentKmandVmaxfor doxorubicin of 123.2 μM and 14.7 nmol/min/mg. However, drug-stimulated superoxide production by mitochondria required NADH and was increased by rotenone, suggesting that the proximal portion of the electron transport chain in tumor cells was responsible for reduction of the doxorubicin quinone at this site. The net rate of drug-related oxygen radical production was also determined for intact Ehrlich tumor cells; in this system, treatment with doxorubicin produced a dose-related increase in cyanide-resistant respiration that was enhanced by changes in intracellular reducing equivalents. Finally, we found that in the presence of iron, treatment with doxorubicin significantly increased the production of formaldehyde from dimethyl sulfoxide, an indication that the hydroxyl radical could be produced by intact tumor cells following anthracycline exposure. These experiments suggest that the anthracycline antibiotics are capable of significantly enhancing oxygen radical metabolism in Ehrlich tumor cells at multiple intracellular sites by reactions that could contribute to the cytotoxicity of this class of drugs.
Community-Based Pilot Study of a Screening Program for Gastric Cancer in a Chinese Population
Authors: Ji Lin , Liu Zengchao , Zhou Bin , Cai Ying , An Fangmei , Wang Lei , Lv Zhifa , Xia Min , Yang Jianbo , Yuan Jianfen , Wang Hui , Zhou Zhiyi , Yang Shudong , Hu Lei , Zhan Qiang
Published: December 2019

A majority of gastric cancer cases in China are diagnosed at advanced stages, chiefly due to lack of an established routine nationwide screening program. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a novel screening program for gastric cancer. Seven geographic communities were randomly selected, and residents ages 40–69 years were screened. Serologic tests of Helicobacter pylori antibodies and pepsinogens, and positive family history of gastric cancer in first-degree relatives (FDR), were used to differentiate individuals for further gastroscopic examination and gastric mucosal biopsies. Among 7,773 individuals who underwent examination of serum markers, gastric cancer was detected in 14 (1.8%; 10 men). The rate in terms of gastric cancer cases per 100 gastroendoscopies was 1.6% (14/872), which was greater than 0.87% previously reported. Eleven of 14 patients with gastric cancer (78.6%) were FDRs of patients with gastric cancer. Two-thirds of the subjects with cardia gastric cancer were FDRs of individuals with gastric cancer rather than cardia gastric cancer. Comparative analysis indicated that the gastric cancer subjects were significantly more likely to be FDRs of patients with gastric cancer, in contrast to those without gastric cancer. All the individuals with gastric cancer were aged ≥50 years. After conducting a reverse analysis, we propose a novel screening program for gastric cancer. In conclusions, the populations most vulnerable to gastric cancer are those with positive family history of gastric cancer in FDRs, male gender, and aged 50 years or older. This screening program using fewer serum markers combined individual risk factors, mainly FDRs, is novel for identification of high-risk individuals for further gastroscopy in detecting early gastric cancer.
Artificial Intelligence in Nephrology: How Can Artificial Intelligence Augment Nephrologists’ Intelligence?
Authors: Xie Guotong , Chen Tiange , Li Yingxue , Chen Tingyu , Li Xiang , Liu Zhihong
Published: December 2019

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) now plays a critical role in almost every area of our daily lives and academic disciplines due to the growth of computing power, advances in methods and techniques, and the explosion of the amount of data; medicine is not an exception. Rather than replacing clinicians, AI is augmenting the intelligence of clinicians in diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment decisions. Summary: Kidney disease is a substantial medical and public health burden globally, with both acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease bringing about high morbidity and mortality as well as a huge economic burden. Even though the existing research and applied works have made certain contributions to more accurate prediction and better understanding of histologic pathology, there is a lot more work to be done and problems to solve. Key Messages: AI applications of diagnostics and prognostics for high-prevalence and high-morbidity types of nephropathy in medical-resource-inadequate areas need special attention; high-volume and high-quality data need to be collected and prepared; a consensus on ethics and safety in the use of AI technologies needs to be built.
O emprego de figuras retóricas de interrupção e silêncio em José Maurício Nunes Garcia
Authors: Soares Eliel Almeida
Published: December 2019

Este trabalho teve como objetivo expor alguns exemplos do emprego de figuras retóricas de interrupção de silêncio em José Maurício Nunes Garcia. Para isso, utilizou-se de métodos de análise adequados em conformidade ao texto, harmonia e ordenação do discurso musical. Os resultados alcançados por intermédio desse estudo serão demonstrados ao longo do trabalho.
Saga Entre o Dito e o Não Dito
Authors: Marin Andreia Aparecida , Castro Marcos Câmara de
Published: December 2019

“Saga” é um termo utilizado nos escritos heideggerianos a respeito da linguagem. Indica a ampliação dos domínios da linguagem para além da sua função comunicativa e de significação, abrindo espaço para o não dito, para o que escapa aos sentidos unívocos. O presente texto parte dessa ampliação, compreendida a partir da perspectiva temporal, própria do comportamento teórico e avança para a discussão de exclusões operadas pelas oposições binárias próprias da linguagem cotidiana e da lógica da representação. Nesse contexto, dá destaque para a legitimação da dimensão prática da música e da possibilidade de uma música não humana. O texto inclui diálogos entre os pensamentos de Small, Sexto Empírico, Derrida e Heidegger.
Teachers and information literacy:
Authors: Shannon Christine , Reilly Jacqueline , Bates Jessica
Published: December 2019

Building on our 2017 article focussing on school library staff perceptions of teachers’ information literacy, this article reports on the information literacy (IL) understandings and skills of teachers in post-primary schools (the age range for pupils in post-primary schools is 11–18) throughout Northern Ireland. Results of a comprehensive online teacher survey (n=426) indicated that, despite misplaced confidence in their own skills, teachers’ IL understandings and skills were underdeveloped. The majority of respondents had neither received IL training nor included IL instruction in their teaching. The significance of these findings for theory, practice and policy relating to the teaching of IL skills, which are intended to equip young people to become active citizens and members of a skilled workforce, is discussed.
Engaging academic staff with reading lists
Authors: Taylor Allie
Published: December 2019

Following the implementation of online reading list software, Library Services at the University of Worcester (UW) encouraged academic staff to consider the reading list as a learning tool. Using an interactive teaching session timetabled as part of the Postgraduate Certificate in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, lecturers are asked to consider how they can maximise the impact of their reading lists and increase library use. The pedagogy of reading lists and student engagement with reading are examined. Participants also discuss the type of content reading lists typically contain and question whether this accurately reflects what the students should be reading. It draws on best practice from academic colleagues at UW, examining (among other things) the effect of list length, structure and lecturer voice and presence.
Hydrochus spanglerorum n. sp., a remarkable, highly derived species from Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname (Coleoptera: Hydrochidae)
Authors: PERKINS PHILIP D.
Published: December 2019

A new species of Neotropical Hydrochus, H. spanglerorum n. sp., is described, based on specimens collected in Brazil, Guyana, and Suriname. The new species has unusual external and male genitalia morphology, which are described, discussed and illustrated. Among other unusual characters, the males have markedly pitted and iridescent femora, and the male genitalia have the parameres and basal piece fused, and the aedeagus dorsal basal lobe located near the distal end of the male genitalia.
Preparation and Characterization of Cellulose Nanofiber/Zinc Oxide Composite Films
Authors: Zhang Xiuqiang , Ren Suxia , He Xiaofeng , Dong Lili , Bai Wei , Lei Tingzhou , Chen Hong
Published: December 2019

Zinc oxide (ZnO)/cellulose nanofiber (CNF) nanocomposite films were prepared using cellulose nanofibers and ZnO nanoparticles. First, suspensions of CNF and ZnO mixtures were blended with different CNF/ZnO ratios; then, the mixtures were stirred, homogenized, filtered, and hot pressed
to form nanofilms with various ZnO weight ratios (0–50 wt%). Rheological tests showed that the CNF shear thinning behavior was not affected by the addition of ZnO. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy studies proved the existence of ZnO nanoparticles in the nanocomposite
films. Thermogravimetric results indicated that the presence of ZnO had almost no effect on the thermal properties of the composite. As the ZnO content increased, the tensile strength and strain-to-failure rate decreased. In comparison with neat CNF nanofilms, the nanocomposite films showed
greater antimicrobial ability against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus due to the presence of ZnO nanoparticles, allowing the CNF/ZnO films to be used in some targeted biomedical applications.
Thermal, Biodegradability and Water Barrier Properties of Bio-Nanocomposites Based on Plasticised Sugar Palm Starch and Nanofibrillated Celluloses from Sugar Palm Fibres
Authors: Ilyas R. A. , Sapuan S. M. , Ibrahim Rushdan , Abral Hairul , Ishak M. R. , Zainudin E. S. , Atiqah A. , Atikah M. S. N. , Syafri Edi , Asrofi Mochamad , Jumaidin R.
Published: December 2019

Sugar palm (Arenga pinnata) starch and fibre are considered as a waste product of the agroindustry. The purpose of the current study is to determine the thermal, water barrier, and soil degradation properties of biodegradable plasticised sugar palm starch (PSPS) that contains
sugar palm nanofibrillated celluloses (SP-NFCs) derived from sugar palm fibre. The bio-nanocomposites were fabricated by using the solution-casting method with the nanocellulose contents in the range of 0.1 wt.%–1.0 wt.%. The thermal stability, water resistance and degradation behaviour
improved with increase in SP-NFCs content, due to high compatibility and strong inter-molecular hydrogen bonds formed between PSPS and SP-NFCs. PSPS/SP-NFCs bio-nanocomposites with 1.0 wt.% SP-NFCs content displayed the highest mechanical and thermal stability. Residue that was left during
the TGA analysis increased as the SP-NFCs content was increased. Soil burial tests showed biodegradability resistance of the bio-nanocomposites. The following conclusions can be drawn from the present reinforcement study of SP-NFCs enhanced biodegradability, water barrier as well as thermal
properties of starch polymer which extended the prospective application of environmentally-friendly polymer material. Potential applications for this eco-material are short product life cycles (plastic packaging and food container).
Degradation Behaviors of Biodegradable Aliphatic Polyesters and Polycarbonates
Authors: Xu Yonghang , Zhou Fangya , Zhou Danmin , Mo Jintang , Hu Huawen , Lin Limiao , Wu Jingshu , Yu Mingguang , Zhang Min , Chen Hong
Published: December 2019

Aliphatic polyesters and polycarbonates such as polylactide (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL) and poly(propylene carbonate) (PPC), are well known as biodegradable, biocompatible and environmental-friendly polymeric materials, which have been widely used in various areas ranging from packaging
to biomedical materials. The production and usage of biodegradable plastics can greatly alleviate the safety and environmental concerns because of the fairly short degradation periods and low toxicity of catabolite. During the degradation process of polymers, obvious changes appear in polymer
structures and the physiochemical properties. Therefore, it is necessary to regulate and control the degradation behaviors and periods of biodegradable plastics such as polyesters and polycarbonates, which is significant for their more widespread popularization and applications. In this context,
it is highly desirable to make a review contribution in this field so as to better understand the recent research progress on polymer degradation behaviors and kinetics, as well as the future prospect of biodegradable polymers. Herein, this paper reviews the research progress on the degradation
behaviors of biodegradable polyesters and polycarbonates materials including PLA, PCL and PPC. Through an in-depth study of various internal/external factors, the degradation mechanism of these polymers is unraveled, which will motivate future studies into the synthesis of novel biodegradable
polymers and the understanding of their degradation behavior on the molecular level.
Implications for the monitoring of patients with multiple myeloma undergoing treatment with the anti-CD38 monoclonal daratumumab
Authors: Thirkettle Sally , Russell Joanne , Wilson Sarah , Ganijee Tasneem , Kulkarni Samar , Cavet Jim , Monaghan Phillip J
Published: December 2019

Background

The novel daratumumab immunotherapy is a human IgG1 kappa antibody targeted against CD38, which is almost universally expressed on myeloma plasma cells. Daratumumab has efficacy in clinical trials for the treatment of multiple myeloma; however, it complicates laboratory monitoring of the serological response to treatment, as it is detected by serum electrophoresis and/or immunofixation.

Methods

Laboratory reports of electrophoresis patterns serially performed in a single laboratory of six patients with relapsed multiple myeloma receiving daratumumab therapy as part a clinical trial were reviewed retrospectively.

Results

Post administration of daratumumab therapy, an additional band was visible by serum electrophoresis, migrating to the mid-gamma region, which was confirmed as IgG kappa by immunofixation. In five out of the six patients, this band was quantified at <2.0 g/L. For one patient, this band co-migrated with the patient’s disease paraprotein band, so both bands were quantified together. The appearance of an apparent second paraprotein band while receiving treatment for multiple myeloma can cause anxiety for patients, confusion for healthcare workers and may also underestimate complete remission rates.

Conclusions

The clinical laboratory must be aware of the interference of daratumumab in serum electrophoresis. Effective communication between clinicians and the laboratory is essential for the production of clinically valuable, non-misleading reports for these patients.
The new discomforts of precarious workers: Wardrobe matter, insecurity and the temporality of calibration in dress work
Authors: van den Berg Marguerite , Vonk Laura
Published: December 2019

This article provides a study of precarisation through the lens of dress work: the mundane practice of dressing the body for work. Based on intimate in-depth wardrobe interviews and analyses of workers’ narratives about their dressing practices, we develop a perspective on what insecure work feels like for workers in the interactive services and creative industries. We understand dress work as a materially mediated practice in which workers often aim to achieve a level of comfort: a state in which they are allowed to become less reflexive about their bodies. One of the ways in which precarisation makes itself known, we contend, is through the temporal logic of the interruption. The temporality of zero-hours contracts and short-term, insecure labour interrupts the achievement of comfort as workers are not allowed the time to experience their work, colleagues and spaces. The discomfort and sometimes pain of insecurity of post-Fordist labour is thus felt on the body.
Distance Traveled to Head and Neck Cancer Provider: A Measure of Socioeconomic Status and Access
Authors: Massa Sean T. , Liebendorfer Adam P. , Zevallos Jose P. , Mazul Angela L.
Published: December 2019

Objective

Improved head and neck cancer survival has been associated with traveling farther distances for treatment, potentially due to patients seeking higher‐quality facilities. This study investigates the role of both facility and confounding patient factors on this relationship.

Study Design

Review of national registry data.

Setting

National Cancer Database.

Subjects and Methods

Adults with head and neck cancer diagnosed from 2004 to 2014 were identified. Overall survival was compared among distance‐to‐facility quartiles via univariate and multivariate survival models. Then, the analysis was stratified by facility and patient factors, and the association between distance and survival was compared among strata.

Results

Overall survival was worst in the shortest‐distance quartile (<5 miles; median survival, 80.7 months; 95% CI, 79.2‐82.3), while other distance groups showed similar survival (range, 96.4‐104 months). This finding remained in the multivariate model (adjusted hazard ratio vs first distance quartile: 0.88; 95% CI, 0.87‐0.89). The association between survival and distance persisted in all subgroups when stratified by facility volume and type (adjusted hazard ratio range, 0.82‐0.91), suggesting that facility quality does not fully account for this association. When stratified by income, distance remained statistically associated with survival but with a smaller effect size than that of income.

Conclusion

The association between distance to treating facility and head and neck cancer survival is limited to patients with worse survival outcomes living within 5 miles of the facility and is not fully explained by measures of facility quality.
Examining the Generalization of a Combined Independent and Interdependent Group Contingency for Students With Emotional and Behavioral Disorders
Authors: Hawkins Renee O. , Collins Tai A. , Haas Ramirez Lauren , Murphy J. Meredith , Ritter Chelsea
Published: December 2019

Using an ABAB withdrawal design, the study evaluated the direct and generalized effects of a combined independent and interdependent group contingency on the engagement and disruptive behavior of two groups of students enrolled in an alternative school serving students with emotional and behavioral disorders. Class 1 included seven middle school students and Class 2 included eight high school students. For both classes, systematic direct observation behavior data were collected both in the targeted class period and a second class period identified by teachers as also having high rates of inappropriate behavior. Following baseline, the group contingency was introduced in the targeted period only and then withdrawn before being re-introduced. Visual analysis indicates that implementation of the group contingency led to improvements in classroom behavior in the targeted class period for both groups of students. Also, improvements in student behavior were observed in secondary settings that shared common environmental variables that may have promoted generalization. Discussion focuses on implications for practice and future research examining methods for promoting generalization of behavior change.
Meteorology and metrology: Evaluating parallels in the Ethiopic Parables of Enoch and 2 (Slavonic) Enoch
Authors: Macaskill Grant
Published: December 2019

This article will examine a set of distinctive conceptual and terminological combinations in the Ethiopic Parables of Enoch and the Slavonic 2 Enoch, associated with the meteorological elements and their angelic custodians/managers. These texts contain extended accounts of the storehouses (or treasuries) within which the elements are stored, and they exhibit a particular interest in how their angelic custodians distribute the elements to the earth; the imagery of distribution is, in turn, connected to metrological concepts informed by the imagery of a righteous balance (or scales). We will consider how other texts offer limited parallels to these combinations, a comparison that will help to illustrate the particularly close connection between the Parables of Enoch and 2 Enoch. The closest parallels are found in 3 Enoch, though here we will also see some striking developments that suggest the Ethiopic and Slavonic works preserve traditions from an earlier point of evolution. Some suggestive parallels will also be noted in works of Syrian origin, which might cast new light on the provenance or transmissional pathways of the Parables of Enoch and 2 Enoch.