bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Laser Capture Microdissection Protocol for Isolating Zone-Specific Cell Populations from Mandibular Condylar Cartilage
Authors: Basudan Aisha M. , Yang Yanqi
Published: November 2019

Mandibular condylar cartilage (MCC) is a multizonal heterogeneous fibrocartilage consisting of fibrous (FZ), proliferative (PZ), mature (MZ), and hypertrophic (HZ) zones. Gross sampling of the whole tissue may conceal some important information and compromise the validity of the molecular analysis. Laser capture microdissection (LCM) technology allows isolating zonal (homogenous) cell populations and consequently generating more accurate molecular and genetic data, but the challenges during tissue preparation and microdissection procedures are to obtain acceptable tissue section morphology that allows histological identification of the desirable cell type and to minimize RNA degradation. Therefore, our aim is to optimize an LCM protocol for isolating four homogenous zone-specific cell populations from their respective MCC zones while preserving the quality of RNA recovered. MCC and FCC (femoral condylar cartilage) specimens were harvested from 5-week-old Sprague–Dawley male rats. Formalin-fixed and frozen unfixed tissue sections were prepared and compared histologically. Additional specimens were microdissected to prepare LCM samples from FCC and each MCC zone individually. Then, to evaluate LCM-RNA integrity, 3′/m ratios of glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and beta-actin (β-Actin) using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were calculated. Both fixed and unfixed tissue sections allowed reliable identification of MCC zones. The improved morphology of the frozen sections of our protocol has extended the range of cell types to be isolated. Under the empirically set LCM parameters, four homogeneous cell populations were efficiently isolated from their respective zones. The 3′/m ratio means of GAPDH and β-Actin ranged between 1.11–1.56 and 1.41–2.12, respectively. These values are in line with the reported quality control requirements. The present study shows that the optimized LCM protocol could allow isolation of four homogenous zone-specific cell populations from MCC, meanwhile preserving RNA integrity to meet the high quality requirements for subsequent molecular analyses. Thereby, accurate molecular and genetic data could be generated.
Considering Quarantine in the SIRA Malware Propagation Model
Authors: Piqueira José Roberto C. , Batistela Cristiane M.
Published: November 2019

As the beginning of the 21st century was marked by a strong development in data science and, consequently, in computer networks, models for designing preventive actions against intruding, data stealing, and destruction became mandatory. Following this line, several types of epidemiological models have been developed and improved, considering different operational approaches. The development of the research line using traditional SIR(Susceptible, Infected, Removed) model for data networks started in the 1990s. In 2005, an epidemiological compartmental model containing antidotal nodes, SIRA (Susceptible, Infected, Removed, Antidotal), was introduced to study how the antivirus policies affect the network reliability. The idea here is to study the consequence of quarantine actions in a network by modifying the SIRA model, introducing quarantine nodes generating the SIQRA (Susceptible, Infected, Quarantine, Removed, Antidotal) model. Analytical and numerical approaches result in parameter conditions for the existence and stability of disease‐free and endemic equilibrium points for two different cases: saturation and nonsaturation of the quarantine population block. Based on these results, operational actions can be planned to improve the network reliability.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Activities of 1H-Imidazo [5, 6-f] [1,10] Phenanthroline-2(3H)-Thione and Its Ni(II) and Cu(II) Complexes
Authors: Tirkeso Radiet Anbessie , Tsega Tilahun Wubalem , Amdemichael Gebru G/Tsadik
Published: November 2019

As multidrug resistant pathogens are emerging, the search for novel potent drug candidates is ever going. Heterocycles are known by their broad spectrum of biological activities, so a search for a new drug from heterocycles can elevate the chance of success. The aim of this study was to obtain novel potent antimicrobial compounds. In line with this, 1H-imidazo [5, 6-f] [1,10] phenanthroline-2(3H)-thione and its complexes (Ni(II) and Cu(II)) were synthesized, characterized, and evaluated against bacterial strains. The compounds were characterized by elemental analyses (C, H, N, and S), FT-IR,1H-NMR,13C-NMR, AAS, UV-Vis spectra, and molar conductivity measurement. The results showed that the ligand is bidentate, and the molar conductivity measurement indicates that complexes are electrolytic. Electronic spectral study showed octahedral and distorted octahedral geometry for the Ni(II) and Cu(II) complex, respectively. The ligand and its complexes were screened against four bacterial strains using disk diffusion method. The result revealed that the Ni(II) complex showed more bioactivity than gentamicin againstStaphylococcus aureusandEscherichia coli, while the Cu(II) complex is more active than the Ni(II) complex againstBacillus subtilis.Both Cu(II) and Ni(II) complexes exhibit higher antibacterial activities than the free ligand.
Human Left Anterior Cingulate Stimulation Elicits a Reproducible Micturition Response
Authors: Patra Sanjay , Valls Lance , Heredia Gabe , Burdette David , Elisevich Konstantin
Published: November 2019

Electrical stimulation of a brain region producing a micturition response has never previously been described in the human. This report identifies the anterior cingulate gyrus as a brain region important in the micturition response. Stereo electroencephalography was performed in a 38-year-old female with medically refractory epilepsy. The response of the left anterior cingulate from low- to high-frequency brain stimulation was tested. Stimulation within the left anterior cingulate resulted in a reproducible micturition response. The response was dependent on the frequency of stimulation (present with stimulation at 50–150 Hz and not present at 5 or 350 Hz). These results provide evidence for the presence of a region within the human left anterior cingulate gyrus involved in producing the micturition response. This may have implications in the understanding of the physiological mechanisms of willful micturition and in the treatment of bladder disorders.
Relationship between Dose of Bolus Dialysate Infusion and Blood Pressure in Intermittent Infusion Hemodiafiltration
Authors: Otsubo Shigeru , Eguchi Kei , Mineshima Michio , Tsuchiya Ken , Nitta Kosaku
Published: November 2019

Background: Intermittent infusion hemodiaﬁltration is a recently developed convective method of renal replacement therapy using cyclic back-ﬁltration infusion. Quick and regular infusion prevents intradialytic hypotension. However, the optimal dose of bolus dialysate infusion required to stabilize blood pressure has not been reported. Here, we investigated the relationship between the dose of bolus dialysate infusion and blood pressure. Summary: A total of 77 patients on maintenance hemodialysis were enrolled in this study. Dialysate was infused rapidly by backward ﬁltration at a rate of 150 mL/min at 30-min intervals using an automated dialysis machine. The effects with two bolus infusion volumes (100 and 200 mL) were compared, each for an observation period of 2 weeks. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was measured at the start and at the end of each dialysis session, and the highest SBP and lowest SBP measurements were also recorded. Patients were divided according to dry weight into a <52 kg group and a ≥52 kg group, and various parameters were compared between the 100 and 200 mL bolus infusion volumes in each group. Among patients in the <52 kg group, SBP did not vary at any of the time points. However, for patients in the ≥52 kg group, SBP at the end of treatment was significantly lower in the 100-mL group than in the 200-mL group (141 ± 20 vs. 144 ± 21 mm Hg, p = 0.041), and the minimum SBP was also lower in the 100-mL group than in the 200-mL group (127 ± 17 vs. 131 ± 18 mm Hg, p = 0.010). Key Messages: Among patients with a dry weight of ≥52 kg, blood pressure was more stable when a bolus fluid volume of 200 mL was used, compared with a volume of 100 mL. However, for patients with a dry weight of <52 kg, the significance of the difference in bolus fluid volumes disappeared. Thus, the replacement fluid volume might be better determined based on the patient’s dry weight. Trial Registration: UMIN 000028145, Registered July 10, 2017.
Age-Related Serum Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Reference Range in Older Patients Treated with Levothyroxine: A Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial (SORTED 1)
Authors: Razvi Salman , Ryan Vicky , Ingoe Lorna , Pearce Simon H. , Wilkes Scott
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) increases with age but target TSH is similar in younger and older hypothyroid patients on treatment. It is unknown if quality of life (QoL), hypothyroid symptoms and cardiovascular risk factors change in older hypothyroid patients treated to an age-appropriate reference range. Objective: To assess if a higher target serum TSH of 4.01–8.0 mU/L is feasible in, and acceptable to, older treated hypothyroid patients. Methods: A single-blind (participant) randomised controlled feasibility trial involving 48 hypothyroid patients aged ≥80 years on established and stable levothyroxine (LT4) therapy with serum TSH levels within the standard reference range (0.4–4.0 mU/L) was conducted. Standard (0.4–4.0 mU/L) or higher (4.1–8.0 mU/L) TSH target (standard TSH [ST] or higher TSH [HT] groups) LT4 for 24 weeks was administered. The outcome measures evaluated were thyroid function tests, QoL, hypothyroid symptoms, cardiovascular risk factors and serum marker of bone resorption in participants that completed the trial (n = 21/24 ST group, n = 19/24 HT group). Results: At 24 weeks, in the ST and HT groups, respectively, median (interquartile range) serum TSH was 1.25 (0.76–1.72) and 5.50 (4.05–9.12) mU/L, mean (± SD) free thyroxine (FT4) was 19.4 ± 3.5 and 15.9 ± 2.4 pmol/L, and daily LT4 dose was 82.1 ± 26.4 and 59.2 ± 23.9 µg. There was no suggestion of adverse impact of a higher serum TSH in the HT group with regard to any of the outcomes assessed. Conclusions: In hypothyroid patients aged ≥80 years on LT4 therapy for 24 weeks, there was no evidence that a higher target serum TSH was associated with an adverse impact on patient reported outcomes, cardiovascular risk factors or bone resorption marker over 24 weeks. Longer-term trials assessing morbidity and mortality outcomes and health-utility in this age group are feasible and should be performed.
Higher Levels of Streptococcus in Upper Gastrointestinal Mucosa Associated with Symptoms in Patients with Functional Dyspepsia
Authors: Fukui Akifumi , Takagi Tomohisa , Naito Yuji , Inoue Ryo , Kashiwagi Saori , Mizushima Katsura , Inada Yutaka , Inoue Ken , Harusato Akihito , Dohi Osamu , Okayama Tetsuya , Katada Kazuhiro , Kamada Kazuhiro , Uchiyama Kazuhiko , Ishikawa Takeshi , Handa Osamu , Itoh Yoshito , Nakagawa Masanori
Published: November 2019

Background: Functional dyspepsia (FD) is associated with poor health-related quality of life. Recent evidence suggests that the main pathogenesis suspect is the gut mucosa-associated microbiota (MAM). However, little is known about the MAM in FD subjects. The aim of this study was to clarify the relationship between upper gastrointestinal symptoms in FD and the characteristics of the gastrointestinal MAM. Summary: Five mucosa samples from the upper gut (intraoral, mid-esophagus, gastric body, gastric antrum, and descending portion of the duodenum) were collected with a brush under endoscopic examination from FD and healthy control subjects. MAM profiles of each sample were analyzed by 16S-rRNA ­V3-V4 gene sequences. Questionnaire was used to assess gastrointestinal symptoms in FD. Between FD and healthy control subjects, although the comparison of MAM α-diversity showed no significant differences, the structure of MAM (β-diversity) was clearly different. Only the phylum Firmicutes was increased in FD compared to healthy control subjects in all sites of the upper gut. At the genus level, Streptococcus was significantly increased in all sites in the upper gut in FD. The relative abundance of Streptococcus was positively correlated with upper gastrointestinal symptoms in each upper gut group. Furthermore, the relative abundance of OTU 90 was positively correlated with upper gastrointestinal symptoms in all sites in the upper gut in FD. Key Messages: Streptococcus is a bacterium strongly correlated with upper gastrointestinal symptoms in FD.
Development of a Novel Inflammation-Based Index for Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chan Stephen Lam , Wong Lin-Lee , Chan Kwan-Chee Allen , Chow Chit , Tong Joanna Hung-Man , Yip Terry Cheuk-Fung , Wong Grace Lai-Hung , Chong Charing Ching-Ning , Liu Po-Hong , Chu Cheuk-Man , Wong Vincent Wai-Sun , To Ka-Fai , Reeves Helen L. , Chan Anthony Wing-Hung
Published: November 2019

Background: The aim of current study was to (1) construct and validate a novel hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-specific inflammatory index; (2) compare the performances of the Integrated Liver Inflammatory Score (ILIS) to existing 4 inflammatory indices in HCC; (3) explore the association between the inflammatory indices and systemic/intratumoral inflammatory markers. Methods: Two cohorts from Hong Kong (HK; n = 1,315) and Newcastle (n = 574) were studied. A novel index was constructed from the HK training set (n = 627). The index was constructed from the training set by combing independent prognostic circulating parameters, followed by validating in the validation set of HK cohort (n = 688) and the Newcastle cohort. Its prognostic performance was compared to 4 inflammatory indices, namely, the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, prognostic nutrition index, and systemic immune-inflammation index, were compared in the HK cohort. Circulating cytokines and intratumoral gene expression were analyzed in a subset of patients with available samples and correlated with the inflammatory indices. Results: In the training set of the HK cohort, the ILIS, was generated: –0.057 × albumin (g/L) + 0.978 × log (Bilirubin, µmol/L) + 1.341 × log (alkaline phosphatase, IU/L) + 0.086 × Neutrophil (109/L) + 0.301 × log (alpha-fetoprotein, µg/L). With cutoff of 2.60 and 3.87, the ILIS could categorize patients into 3 risk groups in the both validation cohorts. ILIS outperforms other inflammatory indices and remains an independent prognosticator for overall survival after adjustment with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (hazard ratio 31.90, p < 0.001). The ILIS had the best prognostic performances as compared to other inflammatory indices. In exploratory analyses, the ILIS correlated with circulating inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-8) but not with any intratumoral inflammatory gene expression. Conclusions: ILIS is an HCC-specific prognostic index built on 5 readily available blood parameters. Its versatility is validated both Eastern and Western population of HCC. The score is correlated with levels of circulating cytokines.
Newborn with Perinatal Naphthalene Toxicity after Maternal Ingestion of Mothballs during Pregnancy
Authors: Shafer Grant , Arunachalam Athis , Lohmann Pablo
Published: November 2019

Maternal ingestion of naphthalene-containing mothballs is an uncommon cause of perinatal toxicity. Naphthalene toxicity is associated with methemoglobinemia, hypotension, hemolytic anemia, and hyperbilirubinemia, as well as other hepatic, renal, and respiratory complications. Naphthalene exposure is a common cause of toxicity in older children, but is rarely described in neonates. The neonatal cases described in the literature focus primarily on maternal inhalation as opposed to ingestion. We present a case of perinatal toxicity due to repeated maternal ingestion of naphthalene-containing mothballs during pregnancy. The patient presented with methemoglobinemia, hypotension, hemolytic anemia, and hyperbilirubinemia. Sepsis or pulmonary hypertension were the initial working diagnoses, as the mother did not provide the history of ingestion until after the patient’s clinical status worsened. This case highlights the importance of obtaining a thorough maternal history and considering maternal ingestion when the etiology of symptoms is not clear.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ ЗМІНИ ПОКАЗНИКІВ ПРОЗАПАЛЬНИХ ЦИТОКІНІВ У ЩУРІВ ІЗ МОДЕЛЬОВАНИМ ГАЛАКТОЗАМІНОВИМ ГЕПАТИТОМ НА ТЛІ МЕРКАЗОЛІЛІНДУКОВАНОГО ГІПОТИРЕОЗУ
Authors: Zarichna O. Y. , Shkliar Kh. I. , Klishch I. M.
Published: November 2019

Мета роботи. Вивчити зміни показників цитокінового профілю та функціонального стану ендотелію у щурів із мерказоліліндукованим гіпотиреозом і супутнім галактозаміновим гепатитом.

Матеріали і методи. Дослідження проводили на білих щурах-самцях масою тіла 180–200 г, яких отримали з віварію Тернопільського національного медичного університету імені І. Я. Горбачевського МОЗ України. Гіпотиреоз моделювали щоденним введенням фармакопейного тиреостатика мерказолілу в дозі 25 мг/кг протягом 21-ї доби per os за допомогою спеціального зонда. Вплив гіпотиреозу на перебіг запального процесу при гепатиті вивчали на моделі галактозамінового гепатиту (ГАГ), який викликали шляхом внутрішньочеревного уведення експериментальним тваринам галактозаміну в дозі 400 мг/кг у вигляді 20 % розчину.

Результати й обговорення. Виявлено, що показник TNF-α у тварин із модельованим гіпотиреозом збільшився у 1,05 раза, IL-1α – в 1,41 раза, IL-4 – 1,33 раза, INF-γ – 5,56 раза відносно інтактних тварин. Причому моноцитарний хемоатрактантний протеїн (MCP) зменшився у 0,95 раза. Після модельованого галактозамінового гепатиту виявлено, що показник TNF-α збільшився у 1,13 раза, IL-1α – в 1,49 раза, IL-4 – 1,56 раза, INF-γ – 6,57 раза, MCP – 1,06 раза відносно інтактних тварин. Після модельованого галактозамінового гепатиту на тлі гіпотиреозу відбулись наступні зміни: показник TNF-α збільшився у 1,32 раза, IL-1α – в 1,70 рази, IL-4 – 1,94 раза, INF-γ – 5,89 раза MCP – 1,11 раза відносно інтактних тварин.

Висновки. За умов експериментального галактозамінового гепатиту на тлі гіпотиреозу відбувається гіперпродукція інтерлейкіну-1α (IL-1α), інтерлейкіну-4 (IL-4), інтерферону-γ (IFN-γ), фактора некрозу пухлин-α (TNF-α), а також гіпопродукцію моноцитарного хемоатрактантного протеїну, що можуть спричиняти значні зміни в тканинах печінки.
РОЛЬ МЕДИЧНОЇ СЕСТРИ У НАДАННІ МЕДИЧНОЇ ДОПОМОГИ ХВОРИМ НА АРТЕРІАЛЬНУ ГІПЕРТЕНЗІЮ
Authors: Reha N. I. , Reha O. R.
Published: November 2019

Мета роботи. Розробити стандартизовані функції з надання медичної допомоги хворим на АГ медичної сестри кабінету сімейного лікаря або терапевта.

Матеріали і методи. На даному етапі реформування медичної галузі вирішальне місце у боротьбі з АГ відводиться ланці первинної медико-санітарної допомоги (ПМСД). Відомо, що ефективність її роботи залежить від чіткої і узгодженої командної взаємодії сімейного лікаря (дільничого терапевта) та медичної сестри. Сучасна медична сестра амбулаторії ПМСД бере активну участь у всіх етапах організації надання медичної допомоги хворим на АГ, зокрема бере участь у діагностиці АГ, лікувальному процесі, здійснює первинну профілактику АГ та проводить диспансерний нагляд за хворими на АГ.

Результати й обговорення. У даній статті показано переваги надання медичної допомоги хворим з артеріальною гіпертензією разом у команді з лікарем. Запропоновано стандарт медсестринської допомоги хворим на артеріальну гіпертензію.

Висновки. Ефективність роботи ланки первинної медико-санітарної допомоги залежить від чіткої і узгодженої командної взаємодії сімейного лікаря (дільничого терапевта) та медичної сестри загальної практики – сімейної медицини (амбулаторії ПМСД). Сучасна медична сестра бере активну участь у всіх етапах організації надання медичної допомоги хворим на АГ. Розробка стандартизованих функцій з надання медичної допомоги хворим на АГ медичної сестри кабінету сімейного лікаря або терапевта сприяє підвищенню якості надання медичної допомоги хворим на АГ.
Brincando de música dentro e fora da sala de aula
Authors: Tessaroto Tiane , Gomes Rodrigo Cantos Savelli
Published: November 2019

O presente artigo trata do universo infantil no âmbito das brincadeiras musicais praticadas pelas crianças em momentos de livre interação, de modo a investigar como se dá a relação delas com esses brinquedos e consequentemente com a música. A ideia nasceu da observação de um grupo de crianças com idade entre 6 e 10 anos, que nos intervalos das aulas brincavam no pátio com jogos de mãos e que, através deles, interagiam entre si desenvolvendo habilidades musicais de forma inconsciente. Para embasar a pesquisa recorreu-se a alguns autores que tratam da cultura infantil valorizando as atividades espontâneas das crianças e vendo-as como "produtoras de cultura" (SOUSA, 2008, p. 02). A metodologia utilizada para a coleta de dados foi observação participativa acrescida de entrevista, a partir da qual se procurou traçar paralelos e destacar aspectos do "brincar com a música" que possam auxiliar nas aulas de musicalização.
François Delalande: a pedagogia do despertar musical
Authors: Alarcon Alessandra Cintra , Brito Teca Alencar de
Published: November 2019

Entrevista com François Delalande.
Música e Neurodesenvolvimento: em busca de uma poética musical inclusiva
Authors: Muszkat Mauro
Published: November 2019

Ensaio sobre música e neurodesenvolvimento.
Sex Differences in Genomic Drivers of Adipose Distribution and Related Cardiometabolic Disorders
Authors: Lumish Heidi S. , O’Reilly Marcella , Reilly Muredach P.
Published: November 2019

This review focuses on the human genetics, epidemiology, and molecular pathophysiology of sex differences in central obesity, adipose distribution, and related cardiometabolic disorders. Distribution of fat is important for cardiometabolic health, with peripheral fat depots having a protective effect and central visceral fat depots conferring a detrimental effect on health. There are important sex differences in fat distribution that are masked when studying body mass index as a measure of obesity. From epidemiological, murine, and in vitro studies, several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the sex differences in adipose distribution, including sex hormonal effects, cell-intrinsic properties, and the microenvironment in fat depots. More recently, human genetics have revealed hundreds of loci for central obesity providing disruptive opportunities for mechanistic discoveries and clinical translation. A striking feature is that over one-third of these loci have reproducible but poorly understood sexual dimorphic associations with central obesity, most having stronger effects in women. Understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms of adipose distribution and its sexual dimorphism in humans provides a unique opportunity to promote the use of precision medicine for early identification of at-risk individuals, and the development of novel therapeutic strategies for central obesity and related cardiometabolic disorders.
Activated Endothelial TGFβ1 Signaling Promotes Venous Thrombus Nonresolution in Mice Via Endothelin-1
Authors: Bochenek Magdalena L. , Leidinger Christiane , Rosinus Nico S. , Gogiraju Rajinikanth , Guth Stefan , Hobohm Lukas , Jurk Kerstin , Mayer Eckhard , Münzel Thomas , Lankeit Mareike , Bosmann Markus , Konstantinides Stavros , Schäfer Katrin
Published: November 2019

Rationale:

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is characterized by defective thrombus resolution, pulmonary artery obstruction, and vasculopathy. TGFβ (transforming growth factor-β) signaling mutations have been implicated in pulmonary arterial hypertension, whereas the role of TGFβ in the pathophysiology of CTEPH is unknown.

Objective:

To determine whether defective TGFβ signaling in endothelial cells contributes to thrombus nonresolution and fibrosis.

Methods and Results:

Venous thrombosis was induced by inferior vena cava ligation in mice with genetic deletion of TGFβ1 in platelets (Plt.TGFβ-KO) or TGFβ type II receptors in endothelial cells (End.TGFβRII-KO). Pulmonary endarterectomy specimens from CTEPH patients were analyzed using immunohistochemistry. Primary human and mouse endothelial cells were studied using confocal microscopy, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot. Absence of TGFβ1 in platelets did not alter platelet number or function but was associated with faster venous thrombus resolution, whereas endothelial TGFβRII deletion resulted in larger, more fibrotic and higher vascularized venous thrombi. Increased circulating active TGFβ1 levels, endothelial TGFβRI/ALK1 (activin receptor-like kinase), and TGFβRI/ALK5 expression were detected in End.TGFβRII-KO mice, and activated TGFβ signaling was present in vessel-rich areas of CTEPH specimens. CTEPH-endothelial cells and murine endothelial cells lacking TGFβRII simultaneously expressed endothelial and mesenchymal markers and transcription factors regulating endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, similar to TGFβ1-stimulated endothelial cells. Mechanistically, increased endothelin-1 levels were detected in TGFβRII-KO endothelial cells, murine venous thrombi, or endarterectomy specimens and plasma of CTEPH patients, and endothelin-1 overexpression was prevented by inhibition of ALK5, and to a lesser extent of ALK1. ALK5 inhibition and endothelin receptor antagonization inhibited mesenchymal lineage conversion in TGFβ1-exposed human and murine endothelial cells and improved venous thrombus resolution and pulmonary vaso-occlusions in End.TGFβRII-KO mice.

Conclusions:

Endothelial TGFβ1 signaling via type I receptors and endothelin-1 contribute to mesenchymal lineage transition and thrombofibrosis, which were prevented by blocking endothelin receptors. Our findings may have relevant implications for the prevention and management of CTEPH.
UVA and Seasonal Patterning of 56 370 Myocardial Infarctions Across Scotland, 2000–2011
Authors: Mackay Daniel F. , Clemens Tom L. , Hastie Claire E. , Cherrie Mark P.C. , Dibben Chris , Pell Jill P.
Published: November 2019

Background

Myocardial infarction exhibits seasonal patterning, with higher amplitude at increased latitude. Epidemiological evidence suggests that sunlight is protective against cardiovascular disease, independent of ambient temperature, but ultraviolet B–mediated vitamin D production has been discounted as causal. We aimed to determine whether ultraviolet A is associated with the seasonal patterning of myocardial infarction.

Methods and Results

Routine hospitalization data were used to determine monthly incidence of myocardial infarction in Scotland between 2000 and 2011. Small‐area–level aggregated data were obtained on ambient temperature from the Meteorological Office and ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B irradiance from
NASA
satellites. Autoregressive distributed lag models were run for ultraviolet A and myocardial infarction, including adjustment for ambient temperature and ultraviolet B. Monthly incidence of myocardial infarction displayed winter peaks and summer troughs superimposed on the underlying trend, with a mean amplitude of 0.31 (95%
CI
: 0.21, 0.41) myocardial infarctions per 100 000 population per month. Ultraviolet A exposure was inversely associated with myocardial infarction independent of ambient temperature (coefficient, −0.05; 95%
CI
, −0.09, −0.01;
P
=0.015) and ultraviolet B
UVB
(coefficient, −0.05; 95% CI, −0.09, −0.02;
P
=0.004).

Conclusions

Further research is required to explore whether an ultraviolet‐mediated mechanism different to vitamin D, such as nitric oxide–mediated vasodilatation, may play a causal role in the seasonal and geographical patterning of myocardial infarction.
Remote Ischemic Conditioning After Stroke Trial 2: A Phase IIb Randomized Controlled Trial in Hyperacute Stroke
Authors: England Timothy J. , Hedstrom Amanda , O'Sullivan Saoirse E. , Woodhouse Lisa , Jackson Ben , Sprigg Nikola , Bath Philip M.
Published: November 2019

Background

Repeated episodes of limb ischemia and reperfusion (remote ischemic conditioning [
RIC
]) may protect the brain from ischemic reperfusion injury.

Methods and Results

We performed a phase
II
b blinded dose‐escalation sham‐controlled trial in patients with hyperacute stroke, randomized 1:1 to receive
RIC
(four 5‐minute cycles) or sham to the nonparetic upper limb, in 3 blocks of increasing dose, starting within 6 hours of ictus. The primary outcome was trial feasibility (recruitment, attrition). Secondary outcomes included adherence, tolerability, safety (serious adverse events), plasma biomarkers at days 1 and 4 (S100‐ß protein, matrix metalloproteinase‐9, and neuron‐specific enolase), and functional outcome. Sixty participants were recruited from 2 centers (3 per month) with no loss to follow‐up: time to randomization 4 hours 5 minutes (SD 72 minutes), age 72 years (12), men 60%, blood pressure 154/80 mm Hg (25/12), National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale 8.4 (6.9), and 55% thrombolyzed.
RIC
was well tolerated with adherence not differing between
RIC
and sham, falling in both groups on day 3 (
P
=0.001, repeated measures
ANOVA
) because of discharge or transfer. S100ß increased in the sham group (mean rise 111 pg/mL [302],
P
=0.041, repeated measures
ANCOVA
) but not the RIC group. There were no differences in matrix metalloproteinase‐9, neuron‐specific enolase, number with serious adverse events (
RIC
10 versus sham 10,
P
=0.81), deaths (2 versus 4,
P
=0.36), or modified Rankin Scale score (2 [interquartile range 1–4], 2 [interquartile range, 1–3];
P
=0.85).

Conclusions

RIC
in hyperacute stroke is feasible when given twice daily for 2 days and appears safe in a small population with hyperacute stroke. A larger phase
III
trial is warranted.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier:
NCT
02779712.
Effect of Sex and Underlying Disease on the Genetic Association of QT Interval and Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Mitchell Rebecca N. , Ashar Foram N. , Jarvelin Marjo‐Riitta , Froguel Philippe , Sotoodehnia Nona , Brody Jennifer A. , Sebert Sylvain , Huikuri Heikki , Rioux John , Goyette Philippe , Newcomb Charles E. , Junttila M. Juhani , Arking Dan E.
Published: November 2019

Background

Sudden cardiac death (
SCD
) accounts for ≈300 000 deaths annually in the United States. Men have a higher risk of
SCD
and are more likely to have underlying coronary artery disease, while women are more likely to have arrhythmic events in the setting of inherited or acquired
QT
prolongation. Moreover, there is evidence of sex differences in the genetics of
QT
interval duration. Using sex‐ and coronary artery disease–stratified analyses, we assess differences in genetic association between longer
QT
interval and
SCD
risk.

Methods and Results

We examined 2282
SCD
subjects and 3561 Finnish controls. The
SCD
subjects were stratified by underlying disease (ischemic versus nonischemic) and by sex. We used logistic regression to test for association between the top
QT
interval–associated single‐nucleotide polymorphism, rs12143842 (in the

NOS
1
AP

locus), and
SCD
risk. We also performed Mendelian randomization to test for causal association of
QT
interval in the various subgroups. No statistically significant differences were observed between the sexes for associations with rs12143842, despite the odds ratio being higher in females across all subgroup analyses. Consistent with our hypothesis, female non‐ischemics had the highest odds ratio point estimate for association between rs12143842 and
SCD
risk and male ischemics the lowest odds ratio point estimate (
P
=0.036 for difference). Similar trends were observed for the Mendelian randomization analysis.

Conclusions

While individual subgroup comparisons did not achieve traditional criteria for statistical significance, this study is consistent with the hypothesis that the causal association of longer
QT
interval on
SCD
risk is stronger in women and nonischemic individuals.
Economic Growth, Wealth and Wealth Inequality in Asia before, during and after the Global Financial Crisis
Authors: Chesters Jenny
Published: November 2019

Although economic growth is regarded as an indicator of the success of an economy and, therefore, an indicator of rising living standards, there is no guarantee that living standards will improve for all members of society unless the benefits derived from economic growth are shared equally. If the wealth generated by economic growth accrues to those at the top of the wealth distribution, levels of inequality will increase. In this paper, I use publicly available data from the World Bank, Credit Suisse, and Forbes Magazine for 11 countries in East Asia/ South East Asia: Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam, to examine whether increases in GDP/capita were accompanied by increases in wealth/adult and levels of wealth inequality between 2000 and 2016. In China, Hong Kong, and Vietnam, wealth inequality increased substantially despite, or perhaps due to, the rapid expansion of their economies. In other words, it would appear that the rising tide lifted some boats but swamped others.
Of Archers and Lions: The Capital of the Islamic Rider in the Cloister of Girona Cathedral
Authors: Monteira Inés
Published: November 2019

In the south gallery of the cloister of the Cathedral of Santa María, Girona, we find one capital that is differentiated from the rest because of its formal as well as its iconographic characteristics. The four faces of capital no. 4 contain two repeated and two alternating motifs: the archer on horseback and the lion attacking a bull. Both the dress of these horsemen and their physical traits identify them as Muslim horsemen. This identification creates an interpretive context for the capital as a whole that also conditions the reading of the conquering lion. Both images will be examined within their constructive context in the light of events and legends that surrounded the cathedral of Girona in the twelfth century. Moreover, we will trace the origin of these motifs that have their parallels in ivories of the art of the caliphal and taifa periods as well as in Catalan Romanesque and Sicilian-Norman art. This overview will enable us to interpret the meaning and significance of the capital in its historical-artistic context and enrich our knowledge of the artistic transfers between Andalusian and Romanesque art.
Task-Irrelevant Sound Corrects Leftward Spatial Bias in Blindfolded Haptic Placement Task
Authors: Cacciamani Laura , Sheparovich Larisa , Gibbons Molly , Crowley Brooke , Carpenter Kalynn E. , Wack Carson
Published: November 2019

We often rely on our sense of vision for understanding the spatial location of objects around us. If vision cannot be used, one must rely on other senses, such as hearing and touch, in order to build spatial representations. Previous work has found evidence of a leftward spatial bias in visual and tactile tasks. In this study, we sought evidence of this leftward bias in a non-visual haptic object location memory task and assessed the influence of a task-irrelevant sound. In Experiment 1, blindfolded right-handed sighted participants used their non-dominant hand to haptically locate an object on the table, then used their dominant hand to place the object back in its original location. During placement, participants either heard nothing (no-sound condition) or a task-irrelevant repeating tone to the left, right, or front of the room. The results showed that participants exhibited a leftward placement bias on no-sound trials. On sound trials, this leftward bias was corrected; placements were faster and more accurate (regardless of the direction of the sound). One explanation for the leftward bias could be that participants were overcompensating their reach with the right hand during placement. Experiment 2 tested this explanation by switching the hands used for exploration and placement, but found similar results as Experiment 1. A third Experiment found evidence supporting the explanation that sound corrects the leftward bias by heightening attention. Together, these findings show that sound, even if task-irrelevant and semantically unrelated, can correct one’s tendency to place objects too far to the left.
Wood cell wall ultrastructure The key to understanding wood properties and behaviour
Authors: Donaldson Lloyd A.
Published: November 2019

In the last 100 years, major advances have been made in understanding wood cell wall ultrastructure in tracheids, fibres, vessels and parenchyma and its relationship with xylem function and wood properties. This review will focus on how the development of imaging techniques and their application to wood cell walls has led to an understanding of cell wall organisation and the relationship between micro and macro scale properties in wood and wood-based materials. Topics such as wood formation, wood chemistry and reaction wood have recently been reviewed elsewhere and are considered only briefly in this review. Two features of wood cell walls have dominated the literature; orientation and layering of cellulose which determines the longitudinal stiffness of wood, and the distribution (topochemistry) of lignin which determines compression strength and pulping properties.
Comparative Charge Transfer Studies of Porphyrin-Fullerene Dyads: Substituents Effect
Authors: Gupta Neha , Naqvi Samya , Vasistha Nikita , Kumar Mahesh , Kumar Rachana
Published: November 2019

The present study deals with the study of charge transfer and photophysical properties of synthesized non-metallated fullerene-porphyrin dyad-III (H2P3-C60) via Prato reaction. The porphyrin has been substituted with electron donating groups (3,5-di-tert-butylbenzene) at meso
positions facilitating the effective charge transfer for the formation of long lived charge-separated states in dyad molecule. The photophysical and thermal activated conducting properties of dyad was comprehensively studied to establish the effect of substituents and also by comparing with
our reported dyad II having only meso-phenyl groups. The charge separation efficiency in dyad III has been calculated in solution as well as in films showing 62% and ˜99% quenching efficiency respectively suggesting faster photoinduced charge transfer from porphyrin to fullerene moiety.
Transient absorption spectroscopy (TAS) showed formation of longer lived charge separated states in solution as well as in films compared to dyad-II. The thermal activated electrical conductivity measurement of dyad-III showed conductivity enhancement on increasing temperature. The activation
energy for conduction was also found lower than dyad-II suggesting a substantial effect of electron-donating groups present on porphyrin ring in conducting behavior of dyad-III. Through this study with a very simple dyad structure we established that the presence of electron donating groups
in dayds, highly influence photophysical and electronic properties. This special characteristic further makes them potential material to be used in various opto-electronic applications.
Self-Activated Green-Yellow Emitting Gd2CaZnO5 Phosphor for Efficient Ultra-Violet Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Lohia Naina , Mishra Savvi , Bishnoi Swati , Swati G. , Jaiswal Vishnu V. , Haranath D. , Mohapatra Manoj , Sharma Shailesh Narain
Published: November 2019

A new self-activated green-yellow emitting Gd2CaZnO5 (GCZO) phosphor was synthesized using solid-state reaction method at high-temperature. XRD analysis confirmed the orthorhombic structure of the sample with the Pbnm space group. SEM micrographs reveal the irregular
morphology with micron sized particles. Detailed photoluminescence (PL) analysis revealed that the excitation of the phosphor lies in the UV range (˜377 nm) with the related broad green-yellow emission centered at 530 nm. The broad band emission ranging from ˜450 nm to 650 nm can
be attributed to the surface defects and oxygen vacancies. The calculated luminescence decay lifetime for the optimized phosphor was found to be 2.925 μs. Furthermore, the color-coordinate (x, y) were calculated and found to be (0.44, 0.45), which lies in the green-yellow
(˜540 nm) region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The values of color coordinates and Color correlated temperature of 3289 K support the synthesized phosphor for the emission of warm white-light. These results perfectly established the suitability of this green-yellow emitting GCZO phosphor
for Ultra-Violet Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) excited white-LED applications.
Photoreduction of Dye with Noble Metal Gold Permeated with Metal Oxide Titania
Authors: Bansal Jyoti , Hafiz A. K. , Sharma Shailesh Narain
Published: November 2019

Photoactive degradation of textile malachite green (MG), methylene blue (MB) dyes has been permeated on metal oxide TiO2 nanoparticles under sunlight. Semiconductor photocatalysis is a promising method for removal of toxic chemicals from wastewater produced by industry. Due
to tunable bandgap, TiO2 among various semiconductor studied mostly. Large band gap (UV active) and recombination of exciton in TiO2 less active in photo degradation. Noble metals such as gold nanoparticles deposited on TiO2 surface increased the optical activity
and to shift optical response to visible region. Degradation detail has been carried out by characterisation such as XRD, UV-Vis, PL, TEM, and SEM for MG and MB textile dyes under sunlight irradiation. UV-visible absorption spectra and PL spectra shows that photo-response of as prepared sample
is extended from UV to visible region. PL intensity decreases with increases in concentration of Au nanoparticles, decreases in intensity in optical spectra of Au–TiO2 composites shows that charge transfer process dominates. Au–TiO2 plays an essential role
in enhancing photocatalytical activity. Decolorization optimization depends on catalyst concentration, Dye concentration, light intensity and, irradiation time.
Quenching Assisted Reverse Micellar Synthesis and Electrical Properties of High Surface Area BiFeO3 Nanoparticles
Authors: Lone Irfan H. , Kalam Abul , Ahmed Jahangeer , Alhokbany Norah , Alshehri Saad M. , Ahmad Tokeer
Published: November 2019

Multiferroic compounds are prime important materials for future electronic and magnetic devices and overcome the fundamental limits of conventional materials. In present work, we reported the preparation of purely one phase of nano-sized BiFeO3 compound by microemulsion micellar
method for the first time by employing rapid quenching of sample at 500 °C, that is the main driving force to get the pure phase of BiFeO3 nanoparticles at low temperature method. The nanoparticles that we obtained were almost uniform with sphere shaped and these prepare nanoparticles
possess high surface. The increase in permittivity in the form of dielectric constants were reported that depends on temperature and frequency that supports the ferroelectric nature and was further confirmed by the ferroelectric loops even at the room temperature has been found in theses prepared
nanoparticles.
Tuning the Thermoelectric Material’s Parameter: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Rani Sanju , Singh Yogesh , Singh V. N.
Published: November 2019

Thermoelectric is a device that converts heat into electricity. As thermodynamically it is not possible to make device which is 100 percent efficient, some amount of energy is wasted in the form of heat. Thermoelectric materials can play a major role in harnessing such waste energy.
Although thermoelectric is a useful device still its efficiency is not good enough for commercialization. Therefore, lots of research have been carried out in finding out the best possible material, device geometry etc. There are thousands of papers describing various optimization processes.
The present work reviews the basics of thermoelectric device parameters which determine the performance of the device and how to control these parameters for better thermoelectric efficiency. The efforts made to optimize parameters like power factor, thermal conductivity etc. have been summarized.
Experimental results have been described with examples. Highest reported ZT values of various materials have been presented in this review.
Synthesis, Characterization and Sun Light-Driven Photocatalytic Activity of Zinc Oxide Nanostructures
Authors: Verma Hemant Kumar , Vij Mahak , Maurya K. K.
Published: November 2019

Low-temperature growth of nanostructures with large yield is a basic requirement for fulfilling the demand of large-scale applications of nanomaterials. The synthesis of nanoscale materials has gained considerable attention due to their excellent properties also in photocatalysis. Catalyst
and Dopant free, solar active ZnO nanostructures photocatalysts with vacancy richness were synthesized in large quantities (in grams) through the co-precipitation growth process using ZnNi2·6H2O as the zinc source at room temperature. This method has advantages
such as low temperature with high yield (>8 grams per liter) at atmospheric pressure synthesis. The experimental results confirm that synthesized ZnO samples were crystallized into a wurtzite hexagonal structure. Under direct sunlight energy examined degradation of organic dye methylene
blue (MB) for photocatalytic activity using ZnO nanostructures. The photocatalytic performance depends on the different defects as well as the specific surface area. After photocatalytic degradation of MB dye in 60 min under natural sunlight irradiation colorless matrix was observed. The repeatability
assessments for reusability of ZnO nanostructures after photocatalytic activity was also studied and reported for degradation of organic MB dye.
Design and Implementation of Extended 16 Bit Co-Operative Arithmetic and Logic Unit (CALU) for 16 Bit Instructions
Authors: Dudhane Tanaji M. , Ravi T.
Published: November 2019

CPU architecture has experienced great innovation in its architecture, from 8 bit to 64 bit, CISC to RISC, Single core to multi-core and single pipelined logic to deep multi-pipelined system. Today in an era of 64 bit architectures, 8 bits are still very relevant and has not lost its
position and being used in many applications. Hence this research work deals with 8 bit CPU architecture and its features enhancement to make the 8 bit case very relevant in an era of 64 bit. The co-operative ALU, as name suggests, works in tandem with existing ALU and performs 16 bits operations.
The specially designed instructions shares knowledge and efficiently handles existing ALU and Co-operative ALU to perform 8 bits and 16 bits operations. The Co-operative ALU is integrated with the 2 stage pipelined 8-bit RISC architecture ensuring that existing architecture is kept intact
by way of applying new functionality in the form of an extension. The reconfigurable platform software tools are used for functionality verification and final deployment is done using reconfigurable platform hardware tools.