bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Haematological Effects of Oleanolic Acid in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats: Effects on Selected Markers
Authors: Baloyi Charity M. , Khathi A. , Sibiya Ntethelelo H. , Ngubane Phikelelani S.
Published: November 2019

Background. Sustained hyperglycaemia leads to the development of haematological alterations which, if left untreated, is associated with cardiovascular complications. Insulin is the mainstay drug in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D); however, the use of insulin is associated with haematological alterations that could further worsen cardiovascular complications. Therefore, the aim of the study was to investigate the haematological effects of oleanolic acid (OA) in streptozotocin- (STZ-) induced diabetic rats.Methods. The animals were separated into five groups; the nondiabetic group (ND), the diabetic control group (DC), and the treatment groups of insulin (170 μg/kg, s.c), metformin (500 mg/kg, p.o), and OA (80 mg/kg, p.o). OA was administered orally twice a day. Thereafter, the animals were sacrificed, and blood and tissues were collected for haematological, hormonal, and oxidative status analysis.Results. Untreated diabetic rats exhibited hyperglycaemia, elevated glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), oxidative stress, and a reduced erythropoietin (EPO) concentration when compared to ND rats. However, administration of OA attenuated hyperglycaemia, HbA1c, and EPO concentrations compared to DC rats. The reduction of blood glucose concentration, HbA1c, and improved EPO concentrations was further associated with a notable increase in red blood cell (RBC) count and other RBC indices. We also observed an increase in the antioxidant status of the RBCs with a concomitant decrease in oxidative stress.Conclusion. These findings suggest that OA improves diabetes-induced haematological changes caused by hyperglycaemia and attenuates the progression of cardiovascular complications in DM individuals.
In Vitro Susceptibility and Florfenicol Resistance inCitrobacterIsolates and Whole-Genome Analysis of Multidrug-ResistantCitrobacter freundii
Authors: Zhou Wangxiao , Chen Qianqian , Qian Changrui , Shen Kai , Zhu Xinyi , Zhou Danying , Lu Wei , Sun Zhewei , Liu Hongmao , Li Kewei , Xu Teng , Bao Qiyu , Lu Junwan
Published: November 2019

The genusCitrobacteris an opportunistic pathogen causing infections in animals, and the published data for its resistance to florfenicol are scarce. In this study, we investigated the antimicrobial susceptibility and molecular characteristics of florfenicol resistance genes amongCitrobacterisolates from animal and relevant environmental samples and conducted a comparative analysis of a multidrug-resistantCitrobacter freundiistrain isolated from a rabbit. Among 20Citrobacterstrains isolated from animal samples, resistance was most commonly observed to ampicillin (100%), tetracycline (75%), streptomycin (65%), florfenicol (60%), chloramphenicol (60%), and aztreonam (50%), while all the strains found in environmental samples were resistant to few antibiotics. The florfenicol resistance genefloRwas detected in 12 isolates (48%, 12/25) from animal samples, and all of thefloR-positive isolates were resistant to florfenicol with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ≥256 μg/mL. Sequencing and comparative analysis of the plasmids from a multidrug-resistantC. freundiiisolate named R47 showed that thefloR-containing region in the plasmid pR47-54 was a truncated transposon-like structure and could be found on both plasmids and chromosomes of bacteria of either animal or human origin. Furthermore, a range of antimicrobial and metal resistance genes associated with mobile genetic elements could be identified in pR47-54 and the other plasmid pR47-309 ofC. freundiiR47. These results provide in-depth views into the phenotypic and molecular characteristics ofCitrobacterisolates recovered from animal and relevant environmental samples, as well as highlight the role horizontal gene transfer plays in the dissemination of plasmid-encoded resistance genes.
On the Use of Graphs for Node Connectivity in Wireless Sensor Networks for Hostile Environments
Authors: García-González Emmanuel , Chimal-Eguía Juan C. , Rivero-Angeles Mario E. , Pla Vicent
Published: November 2019

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have been extensively studied in the literature. However, in hostile environments where node connectivity is severely compromised, the system performance can be greatly affected. In this work, we consider such a hostile environment where sensor nodes cannot directly communicate to some neighboring nodes. Building on this, we propose a distributed data gathering scheme where data packets are stored in different nodes throughout the network instead to considering a single sink node. As such, if nodes are destroyed or damaged, some information can still be retrieved. To evaluate the performance of the system, we consider the properties of different graphs that describe the connections among nodes. It is shown that the degree distribution of the graph has an important impact on the performance of the system. A teletraffic analysis is developed to study the average buffer size and average packet delay. To this end, we propose areference nodeapproach, which entails an approximation for the mathematical modeling of these networks that effectively simplifies the analysis and approximates the overall performance of the system.
Adipose Stem Cell-Based Clinical Strategy for Neural Regeneration: A Review of Current Opinion
Authors: Wang Yu-hao , Guo Yu-chen , Wang Dian-ri , Liu Ji-yuan , Pan Jian
Published: November 2019

Nerve injury is a critical problem in the clinic. Nerve injury causes serious clinic issues including pain and dysfunctions for patients. The disconnection between damaged neural fibers and muscles will result in muscle atrophy in a few weeks if no treatment is applied. Moreover, scientists have discovered that nerve injury can affect the osteogenic differentiation of skeletal stem cells (SSCs) and the fracture repairing. In plastic surgery, muscle atrophy and bone fracture after nerve injury have plagued clinicians for many years. How to promote neural regeneration is the core issue of research in the recent years. Without obvious effects of traditional neurosurgical treatments, research on stem cells in the past 10 years has provided a new therapeutic strategy for us to address this problem. Adipose stem cells (ASCs) are a kind of mesenchymal stem cells that have differentiation potential in adipose tissue. In the recent years, ASCs have become the focus of regenerative medicine. They play a pivotal role in tissue regeneration engineering. As a type of stem cell, ASCs are becoming popular for neuroregenerative medicine due to their advantages and characteristics. In the various diseases of the nervous system, ASCs are gradually applied to treat the related diseases. This review article focuses on the mechanism and clinical application of ASCs in nerve regeneration as well as the related research on ASCs over the past decades.
An Intensified Regimen Containing Linezolid Could Improve Treatment Response in Mycobacterium abscessus Lung Disease
Authors: Li Hua , Tong Li , Wang Jun , Liang Qingtao , Zhang Yun , Chu Naihui , Chen Xiaoyou , Duan Hongfei
Published: November 2019

Background. Treatment response for the Mycobacterium abscessus (M. abscessus) lung disease remains far from satisfying. An effective regimen is needed to solve the problem. Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of all patients with M. abscessus lung disease who received antibiotics regimen at Beijing Chest Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University between July 1, 2010, and February 1, 2018. Patients were administered a conventional antibiotics regimen (including macrolide and moxifloxacin, along with an initial 12-week course of low-dose cefoxitin and amikacin) or intensified regimen (including a higher dosage of cefoxitin and linezolid besides conventional drugs), respectively. The time to sputum-culture conversion and proportion of sputum-culture conversion in liquid broth were investigated to evaluate the efficacy and evaluation of safety by performing the classification of adverse events according to the Division of AIDS, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease. Patients were followed for 18 months from baseline. Results. In the conventional regimen group, the sputum conversion rate at 18 months was 29.4% (10/34), and the median time until sputum conversion was 2 months (IQR, 1-2 mo). Furthermore, in the intensified regimen group, the sputum conversion rate was 81.3% (13/16), and the median time until sputum conversion was 1 month (IQR, 1-1 mo). Leukopenia and drug-induced hepatotoxicity occurred more frequently in the intensified regimen group in contrast with the conventional regimen group patients. However, only 1 adverse event in the intensified regimen group was classified as severe adverse event. Conclusions. The intensified regimen could improve sputum conversion of M. abscessus lung disease compared with conventional regimen, but close safety surveillance is necessary to monitor adverse events.
Effects of Stromal Cell-Derived Factor-1α Secreted in Degenerative Intervertebral Disc on Activation and Recruitment of Nucleus Pulposus-Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Ying Jinwei , Han Zhihua , Pei Shishen , Su Linghao , Ruan Dike
Published: November 2019

Stromal cell-derived factor-1α (SDF-1α) plays a significant role in mobilizing and recruiting mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to the sites of injury. This study investigated the potential of SDF-1α released in the degenerative intervertebral disc (IVD) to activate and recruit endogenous nucleus pulposus-derived stem cells (NPSCs) for regeneration in situ. We found SDF-1α was highly expressed and secreted by the native disc cells when cultured in the proinflammatory mediators in vitro mimicking the degenerative settings. Immunohistochemical staining also showed that the expression level of SDF-1α was significantly higher in the degenerative group compared to that in the normal group. In addition to enhancement of viability, SDF-1α significantly increased the number of NPSCs migrating into the center of the nucleotomized bovine IVD ex vivo. After the systemic delivery of exogenous PKH26-labelled NPSCs into the rats in vivo, there was a significant difference in the distribution of the migrated cells between the normal and the degenerative IVDs, which might be caused by the different expression levels of SDF-1α. However, blocking CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) with AMD3100 effectively abrogated SDF-1α-stimulated proliferation and migration. Taken together, SDF-1α may be a key chemoattractant that is highly produced in response to the degenerative changes, which can be used to enhance the proliferation and recruitment of endogenous stem cells into the IVDs. These findings may be of importance for understanding IVD regenerative mechanisms and development of regenerative strategies in situ for IVD degeneration.
Urinary Matrix Metalloproteinase-7 and Prediction of AKI Progression Post Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Fang Fan , Luo Weihong , Yang Manqiu , Yang Peiliang , Yang Xiaobing
Published: November 2019

Aims. Early detection of patients at high risk for progressive acute kidney injury (AKI) after cardiac surgery remains a major challenge. We aim to evaluate the utility of urinary matrix metalloproteinase-7 (uMMP-7) and other reported biomarkers for predicting AKI progression during postoperative hospital stay.Methods. We conducted a prospective, multicenter cohort study in 121 adult patients with stage 1 or 2 AKI after cardiac surgery. uMMP-7 and other well-reported biomarkers (uIL-18, uNGAL, and UACR) were measured at time of AKI clinical diagnosis. The primary outcome is the progression of AKI after cardiac surgery, defined as worsening of AKI stage (stage 1 to either stage 2 or stage 3 or from stage 2 to stage 3).Results. A level ofuMMP‐7>7.8 μg/g Crat time of AKI diagnosis conveyed an 8-fold risk of AKI progression as compared to those withuMMP‐7<2.7 μg/gafter adjusting for clinical risk factors. The performance of uMMP-7 for predicting progressive AKI was good with an AUC of 0.80. The combination of uMMP-7 and IL-18 produces the greatest AUC for predicting progressive AKI. Addition of uMMP-7 to the clinical risk factor model significantly improved risk reclassification for AKI progression.Conclusions. uMMP-7, measured at time of AKI clinical diagnosis, is a novel biomarker for predicting the progression of AKI after cardiac surgery. Adding uMMP-7 to the clinical risk factor model may be used as a noninvasive approach to identify a subpopulation that is at high risk for progressive AKI after cardiac surgery.
Molecular Characterization of Mosaicism for a Small Supernumerary Marker Chromosome Derived from Chromosome Y in an Infertile Male with Apparently Normal Phenotype: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: An Na , Yu Yang , Xi Qi , Yue Fagui , Liu Ruizhi , Li Shibo , Wang Ruixue
Published: November 2019

Small supernumerary marker chromosomes (sSMCs), equal in size or smaller than chromosome 20 of the same metaphase, can hardly be identified through traditional banding technique. They are usually associated with intelligent disability, growth retardation, and infertility, but the genotype-phenotype correlations are still complicated for their complex origins and constitutions. Herein, we identified a 26-year-old Chinese infertile male who carried a mosaic sSMC and was diagnosed as severe oligospermia. The G-banding analysis initially described his karyotype as mos 47, XY, +mar[32]/46, XY[18]. The chromosomal microarray analysis results showed a 25.5 Mb gain in Yp11.31q11.23 and a 0.15 Mb loss in Yq12. Two SRY signals were discovered in the “seemingly” normal chromosome Y in both cell lines using SRY probe: one normal SRY was located on the distal tip of the short arm of chromosome Y while the other SRY was located on the terminal of long arm in the same chromosome Y. The sSMC(Y) was finally identified as der(Y) (pter ⟶ q11.23) (SRY-). To our knowledge, the chromosomal Y anomalies, SRY gene translocated from der(Y) (pter ⟶ q11.23) to qter of normal chromosome Y, were not reported before. Our findings indicated that the mosaic presence of sSMC(Y) may be the main cause of severe oligospermia although no other apparent abnormalities were observed in the proband. Further research on association between sSMC(Y) and spermatogenesis impairment should be investigated. It is recommended measures of traditional and molecular cytogenetic analysis should be taken to determine the origins and constitutions of sSMC so as to offer more appropriate genetic counseling for the infertile sSMC carriers.
Mevalonate Pathway Provides Ubiquinone to Maintain Pyrimidine Synthesis and Survival in p53-Deficient Cancer Cells Exposed to Metabolic Stress
Authors: Kaymak Irem , Maier Carina R. , Schmitz Werner , Campbell Andrew D. , Dankworth Beatrice , Ade Carsten P. , Walz Susanne , Paauwe Madelon , Kalogirou Charis , Marouf Hecham , Rosenfeldt Mathias T. , Gay David M. , McGregor Grace H. , Sansom Owen J. , Schulze Almut
Published: November 2019

Oncogene activation and loss of tumor suppressor function changes the metabolic activity of cancer cells to drive unrestricted proliferation. Moreover, cancer cells adapt their metabolism to sustain growth and survival when access to oxygen and nutrients is restricted, such as in poorly vascularized tumor areas. We show here that p53-deficient colon cancer cells exposed to tumor-like metabolic stress in spheroid culture activated the mevalonate pathway to promote the synthesis of ubiquinone. This was essential to maintain mitochondrial electron transport for respiration and pyrimidine synthesis in metabolically compromised environments. Induction of mevalonate pathway enzyme expression in the absence of p53 was mediated by accumulation and stabilization of mature SREBP2. Mevalonate pathway inhibition by statins blocked pyrimidine nucleotide biosynthesis and induced oxidative stress and apoptosis in p53-deficient cancer cells in spheroid culture. Moreover, ubiquinone produced by the mevalonate pathway was essential for the growth of p53-deficient tumor organoids. In contrast, inhibition of intestinal hyperproliferation by statins in an Apc/KrasG12D-mutant mouse model was independent of de novo pyrimidine synthesis. Our results highlight the importance of the mevalonate pathway for maintaining mitochondrial electron transfer and biosynthetic activity in cancer cells exposed to metabolic stress. They also demonstrate that the metabolic output of this pathway depends on both genetic and environmental context.

Significance:

These findings suggest that p53-deficient cancer cells activate the mevalonate pathway via SREBP2 and promote the synthesis of ubiquinone that plays an essential role in reducing oxidative stress and supports the synthesis of pyrimidine nucleotide.
Dual mTORC1/2 Inhibition Sensitizes Testicular Cancer Models to Cisplatin Treatment
Authors: Rosas-Plaza Ximena , de Vries Gerda , Meersma Gert Jan , Suurmeijer Albert J.H. , Gietema Jourik A. , van Vugt Marcel A.T.M. , de Jong Steven
Published: November 2019

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer type among young men. Despite highly effective cisplatin-based chemotherapy, around 20% of patients with metastatic disease will still die from the disease. The aim of this study was to explore the use of kinase inhibitors to sensitize testicular cancer cells to cisplatin treatment. Activation of kinases, including receptor tyrosine kinases and downstream substrates, was studied in five cisplatin-sensitive or -resistant testicular cancer cell lines using phospho-kinase arrays and Western blotting. The phospho-kinase array showed AKT and S6 to be among the top phosphorylated proteins in testicular cancer cells, which are part of the PI3K/AKT/mTORC pathway. Inhibitors of most active kinases in the PI3K/AKT/mTORC pathway were tested using apoptosis assays and survival assays. Two mTORC1/2 inhibitors, AZD8055 and MLN0128, strongly enhanced cisplatin-induced apoptosis in all tested testicular cancer cell lines. Inhibition of mTORC1/2 blocked phosphorylation of the mTORC downstream proteins S6 and 4E-BP1. Combined treatment with AZD8055 and cisplatin led to reduced clonogenic survival of testicular cancer cells. Two testicular cancer patient-derived xenografts (PDX), either from a chemosensitive or -resistant patient, were treated with cisplatin in the absence or presence of kinase inhibitor. Combined AZD8055 and cisplatin treatment resulted in effective mTORC1/2 inhibition, increased caspase-3 activity, and enhanced tumor growth inhibition. In conclusion, we identified mTORC1/2 inhibition as an effective strategy to sensitize testicular cancer cell lines and PDX models to cisplatin treatment. Our results warrant further investigation of this combination therapy in the treatment of patients with testicular cancer with high-risk relapsed or refractory disease.
In Vivo Epigenetic CRISPR Screen Identifies Asf1a as an Immunotherapeutic Target in Kras-Mutant Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Li Fei , Huang Qingyuan , Luster Troy A. , Hu Hai , Zhang Hua , Ng Wai-Lung , Khodadadi-Jamayran Alireza , Wang Wei , Chen Ting , Deng Jiehui , Ranieri Michela , Fang Zhaoyuan , Pyon Val , Dowling Catríona M. , Bagdatlioglu Ece , Almonte Christina , Labbe Kristen , Silver Heather , Rabin Alexandra R. , Jani Kandarp , Tsirigos Aristotelis , Papagiannakopoulos Thales , Hammerman Peter S. , Velcheti Vamsidhar , Freeman Gordon J. , Qi Jun , Miller George , Wong Kwok-Kin
Published: November 2019

Despite substantial progress in lung cancer immunotherapy, the overall response rate in patients with KRAS-mutant lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) remains low. Combining standard immunotherapy with adjuvant approaches that enhance adaptive immune responses—such as epigenetic modulation of antitumor immunity—is therefore an attractive strategy. To identify epigenetic regulators of tumor immunity, we constructed an epigenetic-focused single guide RNA library and performed an in vivo CRISPR screen in a KrasG12D/Trp53−/− LUAD model. Our data showed that loss of the histone chaperone Asf1a in tumor cells sensitizes tumors to anti–PD-1 treatment. Mechanistic studies revealed that tumor cell–intrinsic Asf1a deficiency induced immunogenic macrophage differentiation in the tumor microenvironment by upregulating GM-CSF expression and potentiated T-cell activation in combination with anti–PD-1. Our results provide a rationale for a novel combination therapy consisting of ASF1A inhibition and anti–PD-1 immunotherapy.

Significance:

Using an in vivo epigenetic CRISPR screen, we identified Asf1a as a critical regulator of LUAD sensitivity to anti–PD-1 therapy. Asf1a deficiency synergized with anti–PD-1 immunotherapy by promoting M1-like macrophage polarization and T-cell activation. Thus, we provide a new immunotherapeutic strategy for this subtype of patients with LUAD.

See related commentary by Menzel and Black, p. 179.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 161
To Sleep or Not to Sleep—Is it a Question?
Authors: Faust Joan
Published: November 2019

Amidst the many trials Donne experienced during his 1623 illness recounted in his Devotions upon Emergent Occasions are bouts of insomnia introduced in Devotion 15 and implied in Devotions 16–18 with the unceasing tolls of bells in the nearby church commemorating the dying and dead. Donne’s agonized longing for the comfort of sleep as he lay day after day and night after night for fourteen days to the disease’s crisis, then over three months of slow recuperation, hits readers where they live: in all probability, all of us have tossed and turned on long sleepless nights. But is Donne preoccupation with sleep an anomaly among seventeenth-century writers, peculiar to his 1623 illness, and another example of Donne’s excessive focus on his own body, or did other Early Modern writers and theorists demonstrate an obsession with sleep? And more importantly, was insomnia a hindrance to his creativity before, during, and after his illness? A look at Donne’s Devotions in light of Early Modern theories of sleep and “not to sleep” indicates that Donne’s work not only documents his own personal sufferings and anxiety about liminal states but also illustrates Early Modern beliefs about insomnia, its causes, and even its benefits. Insomnia was not a temporary and isolated stage of Donne’s 1623 illness but a burden throughout his life, possibly serving as a source of his creativity and linking him to other sleepless writers of his time and beyond.
Declaring the Global Economy a Status Confessionis?
Authors: Kamminga Menno R.
Published: November 2019

This article revisits theologian Ulrich Duchrow’s three-decade-old use of the Protestant notion of status confessionis to denounce the capitalist global economy. Scholars quickly dismissed Duchrow’s argument; however, philosopher Thomas Pogge has developed a remarkable “negative duty”—based critique of the current global economic order that might help revitalize Duchrow’s position. The article argues that sound reasons exist for the churches to declare the contemporary world economy a—provisionally termed—status confessionis minor. After explaining the inadequacy of Duchrow’s original position and summarizing Pogge’s account, the article develops a twofold argument. First, Pogge’s in-depth inquiry into the world economy gives Duchrow’s call for a status confessionis a strong yet narrowing economic foundation. Second, to declare the world economy a status confessionis minor is theological-ethically justifiable if the limited though indispensable “prophetic” significance of doing so is acknowledged. Thus, Duchrow’s approach is justified, but only partially.
Dooyeweerd’s Understanding of Meaning (2)
Authors: Basden Andrew , Joneidy Sina
Published: November 2019

Meaning is important in everyday life, and each science focuses on certain ways in which reality is meaningful. This article (the second of two) discusses practical implications of Herman Dooyeweerd’s understanding of meaning for everyday experience, scientific theories, scientific methodology, and philosophical underpinning. It uses eight themes related to meaning in Dooyeweerd’s philosophy, which are discussed philosophically in the first article (and summarised here). This article ends with a case study in which the themes are applied together to understanding Thomas Kuhn’s notion of paradigms.
The genus Anaphothrips (Thysanoptera, Thripidae) in China, with three new species
Authors: CUI YANZE , WANG JUN
Published: November 2019

A key to, and distributional information about, is given concerning the 11 Anaphothrips species known from China, including the descriptions of three new species: A. nonporous sp. n., A. oroqeni sp. n. and A. qinghaiensis sp. n. The male and micropterous female of A. beijing Mirab-balou, Chen & Tong and the male of A. populi Zhang & Tong are described for the first time. The European species A. atroapterus Priesner is newly recorded from China.
Type species designation for Archaebranchinecta Rogers & Coronel (Branchiopoda: Anostraca)
Authors: ROGERS D. CHRISTOPHER
Published: November 2019

Over the course of my career I have described nine Branchiopod genera and one subgenus, either alone or with other researchers. From these, four genera and the subgenus belong to Anostraca. But I was remiss in designating type species for one of those taxa which caused the name to become unavailable. This short communication is to rectify this unfortunate error on my part.
Targeting the Fetal Body and/or Mother–Child Connection: Vital Conflicts and Abortion
Authors: Watt Helen , McCarthy Anthony
Published: November 2019

Is the “act itself” of separating a pregnant woman and her previable child neither good nor bad morally, considered in the abstract? Recently, Maureen Condic and Donna Harrison have argued that such separation is justified to protect the mother’s life and that it does not constitute an abortion as the aim is not to kill the child. In our article on maternal–fetal conflicts, we agree there need be no such aim to kill (supplementing aims such as to remove). However, we argue that to understand “abortion” as performed only where the death of the child is intended is to define the term too narrowly. Respect for the mother, the fetus, and the bond between them goes well beyond avoiding any such aim. We distinguish between legitimate maternal treatments simply aimed at treating or removing a damaged part of the woman and illegitimate treatments that focus harmfully on the fetal body and its presence within the mother’s body. In obstetrics as elsewhere, not all side effects for one subject of intervention can be outweighed by intended benefits for another. Certain side effects of certain intended interventions are morally conclusive.

How should one respond to “vital conflicts” in pregnancy where the mother’s life or health is at risk? We argue that, in addition to avoiding any aim of ending life, one must avoid the similarly unacceptable aims of evicting the baby pre-viability and invading its body, including its placenta, in a lethally harmful way. Even at the cost of real and important benefits for the mother such as increased safety and protection of fertility, we must manage cases always in a way that respects the inviolable bodily rights of both mother and child and crucially, the unique bond between them.
Himations and Fancy Hairdos: A Note on 1 Peter 3.3
Authors: Smith Elizabeth
Published: November 2019

At 1 Pet. 3.3, Peter describes and criticizes elaborate female hairstyles and adornment. His criticism has been interpreted as a call for women of the Christian faith to adopt modest, undecorated forms of dress. This short study contends that Peter’s criticism of the female hairdo, ἐμπλοκής τριχῶν, and associated costume, may not be limited to admonishing fashionable Roman female dress. Peter’s criticism may, in fact, relate to a rejection of Roman female attire connected with ritual. Examination of the similarities of the hairstyle that Peter mentions to the infulae and vittae, with which Roman women supposedly adorned themselves, supports this contention. Infulae and vittae are hitherto unstudied adornments within current available commentaries on 1 Peter and, as shown in this brief explanation, are certainly worthy of further consideration in relation to this portion of the text.
Reflecting on Sacrifices Made by Past Generations Increases a Sense of Obligation Towards Future Generations
Authors: Watkins Hanne M. , Goodwin Geoffrey P.
Published: November 2019

Tackling climate change presents an intergenerational dilemma: People must make sacrifices today, to benefit future generations. What causes people to feel an obligation to benefit future generations? Past research has suggested “intergenerational reciprocity” as a potential driver, but this research is quite domain specific, and it is unknown how well it applies to climate change. We explored a novel means of invoking a sense of intergenerational reciprocity: inducing reflection on the sacrifices made by previous generations. Our studies revealed that such reflection predicts and causes a heightened sense of moral obligation towards future generations, mediated by gratitude. However, there are also some downsides (e.g., feelings of unworthiness), and perceptions of obligation do not substantially affect pro-environmental attitudes or motivations. Thus, while reflecting on past generations’ sacrifices can generate a sense of intergenerational obligation, it is limited in the extent to which it can increase pro-environmental concern.
Labor patterns in Chinese women in Fuzhou attempting vaginal birth after previous cesarean delivery: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zheng Lianghui , Zhang Qinjian , Liao Qiuping , Chen Rongxin , Xu Rongli , Han Qing , Yan Jianying
Published: November 2019

Objective

To investigate the characteristics of labor in Chinese women who successfully have vaginal birth after cesarean section (VBAC).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted in a hospital with 1000 beds between January 1 2015 and December 31 2017. A total 657 parturients with VBAC were selected. Women were divided into two groups according to previous cesarean section with or without trial of labor. Labor curves were analyzed and interval-censored regression was used to estimate the duration of labor.

Results

The 95th percentile for the first stage of labor in VBAC was 13.03 hours, and labor accelerated after 4 cm of cervical dilation in both groups. The dilation rate in the trial of labor group was superior to that in the non-trial of labor group at 6–10 cm of dilation. After 6 cm, labor accelerated much faster in the trial of labor group than in the non-trial of labor group.

Conclusions

Management of labor in parturients with VBAC whose cervical dilation is >6 cm should be treated differently according to previous cesarean section with or without trial of labor. If there is trial of labor in a previous delivery, the duration of labor should be shortened.
Prognostic CT findings of malignant bowel obstruction in patients with advanced ovarian cancer
Authors: Miccò Maura , Sbarra Martina , Gui Benedetta , Bianco Nicola Carlo , Rodolfino Elena , Manfredi Riccardo
Published: November 2019

Objective:

To evaluate computed tomography (CT) findings able to predict outcome in patients with ovarian cancer (OC) and concomitant bowel occlusion.

Methods:

This institutional review board–approved retrospective study included 31 patients with OC and clinical evidence of bowel occlusion who underwent CT at presentation between February 2013 and June 2015. Two radiologists recorded various qualitative CT features. Correlations between CT and survival data were made with Mann-Whitney test, Wilcoxon test, and χ2 test, as appropriate. Receiver operating characteristic curves were generated for statistically significant CT findings using logistic regression model.

Results:

Two of 31 patients (6.5%) were alive at the end of this study; 29 patients (93.5%) died of disease. Median overall survival was 90 days. CT features associated with short life expectancy were bowel mural thinning ( p=0.03), mesenteric tumor deposits ( p=0.009), mesenteric infiltration ( p=0.02), and ascites ( p=0.04). Area under the curve was 0.728 ( p=0.03) for mesenteric tumor deposits in predicting malignant bowel obstruction.

Conclusions:

Accurate interpretation of CT features may guide decisions in care of women with OC and bowel obstruction.
All or nothing: The interaction of musical and spatial atmosphere
Authors: Ehret Sonja , Schroeder Carolin , Bernet Johannes , Holzmüller Anne , Thomaschke Roland
Published: November 2019

Atmosphere can be defined as the affective quality of an environment. Prior research has shown that music can influence how an environment is affectively perceived. In the current study, we systematically examined in three experiments how musical and spatial atmosphere interact and influence the overall valence of the atmosphere. In Experiments 1a ( n = 50) and 1b ( n = 136), we identified two rooms and two musical pieces that strongly contrast in the valence of perceived atmosphere. In Experiments 2 and 3, 32 participants each were exposed to the four combinations of rooms and music for 10-min periods on two different days. Perceived overall atmosphere was assessed. Musical and spatial valence both significantly affected the experienced overall valence of atmosphere. A significant interaction between music and room showed that making one aspect of a perfectly pleasant overall atmosphere negative had a much stronger effect than making one aspect positive in a totally unpleasant atmosphere. This suggests that pleasant atmospheres are particularly vulnerable, which might be explained by an attentional bias toward negative information. Future research should focus on examining fundamental psychological mechanisms underlying the constitution of perceived atmosphere.
Safety of Transesophageal Echocardiography Performed by Intensivists and Emergency Physicians in Critically Ill Patients With Coagulopathy and Thrombocytopenia: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Wray Trenton C. , Schmid Kristin , Braude Darren , Azevedo Keith , Dettmer Todd , Tawil Isaac , Boivin Michel , Marinaro Jonathan
Published: November 2019

Introduction:

The use of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) by intensivist physicians (IPs) and emergency physicians (EPs) in critically ill patients is increasing in the intensive care unit, emergency department, and prehospital environments. Coagulopathy and thrombocytopenia are common in critically ill patients. The risk of performing TEE in these patients is unknown. The goal of this study was to assess whether TEE is safe when performed by IPs or EPs in critically ill patients with high bleeding risk (HBR).

Methods:

All TEEs performed by an IP or EP between January 1, 2016, and July 31, 2019, were reviewed as part of a quality assurance database. A TEE performed on a patient was deemed HBR if the patient met at least one of the following criteria: undergoing therapeutic anticoagulation, had an INR > 2, activated partial thromboplastin time >40 seconds, fibrinogen <150 mg/dL, and/or platelet count <50 000/μL. The medical record was reviewed on each patient to determine whether upper esophageal bleeding, oropharyngeal bleeding, esophageal perforation, or dislodgement of an artificial airway occurred during or after the TEE.

Results:

A total of 228 examinations were reviewed: 80 in the high-risk group and 148 in the low-risk group (LBR). There were complications potentially attributable to TEE in 8 (4%) of the 228 exams. Total complications were not different between groups: 4 (5%) in the HBR group versus 4 (3%) in the LBR group (odds ratio [OR] = 1.89 [0.34-10.44], P =.368). Upper esophageal bleeding occurred in 5 total examinations (2%), which was not different between groups: 3 (4%) in the HBR group and 2 (1%) in the LBR group (OR = 2.84 [0.31-34.55], P = .238). There were no deaths attributable to TEE in either group.

Conclusion:

Transesophageal echocardiography can be safely performed by IPs and EPs in critically ill patients at high risk of bleeding with minimal complications.
Impact of a Pharmacist-Led Diabetes Clinic in a Correctional Setting
Authors: Lin Cindy H. , Tran Ngoc T. , Muradian Ibrahim K. , Do Nguyen H. , Lu Quyen D. , Tesema Lello , Henderson Sean O.
Published: November 2019

Incarcerated patients often have a high disease burden and poor access to care in the community. In an effort to ensure glycemic control and appropriate initiation of statin therapy for cardiovascular (CV) risk reduction, a pilot program of pharmacist-led diabetes clinic (PLDC) was implemented in a large inner-city jail. A pre-post study was conducted as a quality improvement initiative. Inclusion criteria were inmate-patients (IPs) diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus, treated with oral antidiabetic medications, managed by PLDC, and with at least 2 glycosylated hemoglobin A1cs (HbA1c). The primary outcome was the change in HbA1c after PLDC. The secondary outcome was the frequency of statin therapy. A total of 240 IPs met the inclusion criteria. Mean HbA1c was 8.2% at baseline and 7.6% at the last follow-up encounter, a change of −0.7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.41% to −0.93%). The most dramatic change was seen in the group with the highest initial HbA1c (HbA1c ≥ 10%), from a mean baseline HbA1c of 11.6% to 8.5%, a change of −3.1% (95% CI: −2.5% to −3.7%). IPs with an initial HbA1c between 7% and 9.9% showed a change in mean HbA1c from 8.4% to 8.0%, a change of −0.4% (95% CI: −0.1% to −0.7%). Of the 240 included IPs, 141 were not on a statin at baseline. The frequency of statin use increased by 50.4% after PLDC. PLDC significantly improved glycemic control and guideline concordance for CV risk reduction. Adding PLDC to multidisciplinary care teams has the potential to improve population health outcomes for this medically complex, yet underserved patient population.
Shigellosis in adults: A retrospective study of clinical and epidemiological features in East London
Authors: McGuire Emma , Mikhail Amy , Day Martin , Serafino-Wani Robert , Godbole Gauri
Published: November 2019

Shigella is a leading cause of gastroenteritis worldwide; however, data on clinical outcomes amongst adults are lacking. All adult cases (>16 years) of Shigella gastroenteritis diagnosed between January 2014 to December 2017 at an East London NHS Trust in the United Kingdom were included. Demographic, clinical, microbiological and whole genome sequencing (WGS) data were retrospectively collected. Shigella spp isolates from 169 cases were identified: S. flexneri 90 (53.3%), S. sonnei 75 (44.9%) and S. boydii 4 (2.0%). The median age was 34 years (IQR 29–45), and 127 (75.1%) were male. S. flexneri cases were more likely to attend accident and emergency (46.7% vs. 25.3%, p = 0.005), be admitted to hospital (26.7% vs. 10.7%, p = 0.01), and receive antibiotics (51.1% vs. 28.0%, p = 0.003) compared to S. sonnei cases. Thirty-two (18.9%) patients were admitted to hospital for a median of five days (IQR 3–8). Where recorded 42/84 (50.0%) reported recent travel. Seventeen (10.1%) patients experienced complications. There were no deaths within one year of diagnosis. Seventy-nine isolates were characterised by WGS. Fifty-seven (72.2%) belonged to known national clusters; 44 (55.7%) involving adult males and 11 (13.9%) travel-associated clusters. We demonstrate the development of severe complications of shigellosis among adults and highlight the changing epidemiology and antibiotic resistance patterns.
The Value of Interracial Contact for Reducing Anti-Black Bias Among Non-Black Physicians: A Cognitive Habits and Growth Evaluation (CHANGE) Study Report
Authors: Onyeador Ivuoma N. , Wittlin Natalie M. , Burke Sara E. , Dovidio John F. , Perry Sylvia P. , Hardeman Rachel R. , Dyrbye Liselotte N. , Herrin Jeph , Phelan Sean M. , van Ryn Michelle
Published: November 2019

Although scholars have long studied circumstances that shape prejudice, inquiry into factors associated with long-term prejudice reduction has been more limited. Using a 6-year longitudinal study of non-Black physicians in training ( N = 3,134), we examined the effect of three medical-school factors—interracial contact, medical-school environment, and diversity training—on explicit and implicit racial bias measured during medical residency. When accounting for all three factors, previous contact, and baseline bias, we found that quality of contact continued to predict lower explicit and implicit bias, although the effects were very small. Racial climate, modeling of bias, and hours of diversity training in medical school were not consistently related to less explicit or implicit bias during residency. These results highlight the benefits of interracial contact during an impactful experience such as medical school. Ultimately, professional institutions can play a role in reducing anti-Black bias by encouraging more frequent, and especially more favorable, interracial contact.
Measuring the air pollution cost of shale gas development in China
Authors: Ma Zhengwei , Pang Yuanjun , Zhang Dan , Zhang Yuqi
Published: November 2019

Shale gas is one of the most promising unconventional hydrocarbon resources in the 21st century. In recent years, economically recoverable reserves have achieved explosive growth, and drilling techniques have made large breakthroughs. As a clean unconventional energy, shale gas is given substantial consideration by governments. However, the cleanliness of shale gas has been questioned for causing serious air pollution during production. To further measure the air pollution cost during the exploration and transportation of shale gas, this article establishes an economic measurement model of the air pollution cost from the three aspects of human health, social cost and ecological cost by reviewing the relevant literature in the United States and China. This study lays a foundation for further calculating the cost of air pollution around shale gas fields.
An investigation of date palm seed as effective filler material of glass–epoxy composites using optimization techniques
Authors: Elkhouly Heba I , Abdel-Magied Ragab K , Aly Mohamed F
Published: November 2019

Glass/epoxy (G-E) products are widely used in numerous industries nowadays. This is due to favorable characteristics of these products including low cost, ease of manufacturing, good mechanical properties, and lightweight. The mechanical properties of G-E composites can be enhanced through mixing with natural reinforcement materials. In this work, we investigate the use of date seeds (DSs) as a reinforcement material for G-E composites. A DS filler has been added to G-E hybrid composites as a powder by applying a semiautomatic technique. Glass fibers reinforced with angle-ply ([±45]4) were considered as commonly used G-E composites. G-E reinforced DS composites were analyzed using various mechanical characteristics such as mica-hardness, tensile strength, and impact strength. Effects of the DS filler on the wear volume loss (VL) were investigated at different parameter settings. This loss was analyzed using the traditional Taguchi method and the nontraditional flower pollination algorithm to obtain optimal parameters. Surface inspection using a scanning electron microscope and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) was conducted. The results revealed that the addition of a 10% DS reinforcement to G-E composites enhanced the wear resistance and increased toughness and hardness. Finally, G-E-DS composite optimization was carried out by minimizing the wear VL. This resulted in an optimum DS reinforcement of 10% at a normal load of 10 N, an abrasive size of 1200 mesh, and an abrading distance of 420 m. Deviations from this reinforcement ratio degrade the mechanical properties of the G-E-DS composite. Moreover, the significant factors are the abrasive size, reinforcement material wt%, normal load, and abrading distance. The contributions of these factors are 30.6%, 15.5%, 11.8%, and 10%, respectively. FTIR results indicate that a chemical interaction has occurred between G-E and the organic DS. These experimental results are in good agreement with the theoretical ones.
Acceleration of interstitial lung disease induced by raltitrexed
Authors: Howlett Sarah , Aul Raminder , Hill Mark , Pinato David J
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Raltitrexed is a folate analogue, which selectively inhibits thymidylate synthase, used in the treatment of colorectal carcinoma. Common side effects include asthenia and gastrointestinal and haematological toxicities.

Case report

We present the case of a 74-year-old gentleman with incidental mild interstitial lung disease on preoperative staging CT Chest who developed acute breathlessness whilst undergoing adjuvant raltitrexed treatment for a completely excised colorectal adenocarcinoma.

Management and outcome

Discontinuation of raltitrexed and a course of steroid therapy resulted in resolution of symptoms, mirrored by an improvement in lung function tests.

Discussion

The clinical pattern of rapid progression with steroid response highlights the potential for significant acceleration of interstitial lung disease by raltitrexed.
Treatment of pastirma with pulsed UV light: Modeling of Staphylococcus aureus inactivation and assessment of quality changes
Authors: Keklik Nene Meltem
Published: November 2019

The efficacy of pulsed UV (PUV) light treatment carried out in a wide range of fluence was investigated on pastirma slices by characterizing Staphylococcus aureus inactivation using mathematical models and by assessing the treatment effects on quality attributes. Pastirma slices inoculated on top surface with S. aureus were subjected to pulsed UV light for 5, 15, 25, 35, and 45 s at 5, 8, and 13 cm from the quartz window. Although the 5 cm/45 s treatment (72.3 J/cm2) yielded a maximum reduction of 2.99 log cfu/cm2 for S. aureus, this treatment changed the color, moisture, and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) values of pastirma significantly ( p < 0.05). The quality of pastirma tended to change above 20 J/cm2, below which the highest log reduction of S. aureus was ∼1.3 log cfu/cm2 obtained after the 8 cm/15 s treatment (18 J/cm2). Kamau’s model provided better fit to inactivation data (root mean square error: 0.049–0.116, Af: 1.013–1.046, R2: 0.991–0.999) than Cerf’s and Weibull models.
Engagement and Weight Loss in a Web and Mobile Program for Low-Income Postpartum Women: Fit Moms/Mamás Activas
Authors: Power Julianne M. , Phelan Suzanne , Hatley Karen , Brannen Anna , Muñoz-Christian Karen , Legato Maria , Tate Deborah F.
Published: November 2019

Internet-based weight loss programs can be effective in promoting weight loss and are less-intensive than traditional face-to-face approaches, which may provide more flexibility for postpartum, low-income women to engage in such programs. Few studies have examined patterns of engagement in internet-based programs for this population. This article used data from the internet-based Fit Moms/ Mamás Activas intervention, a 12-month cluster randomized controlled trial that was effective in promoting postpartum weight loss among low-income, predominantly Hispanic women. The overall objectives of this study were to (1) characterize patterns of engagement with the Fit Moms/ Mamás Activas website among intervention participants and (2) explore associations between engagement and 12-month weight loss outcomes among study completers (87.4%). A number of engagement variables were calculated for each participant, including website logins; time spent on the website; number of posts to the “Discussion Forum;” number of days tracking weight, diet, and physical activity; number of page visits to various website components; and number of in-person visits attended. The average number of logins was 70.74 (approximately once weekly), and average total time spent on the website was 185.35 minutes (approximately 3 hours) over 1 year. Self-monitoring (“Web Diary”) and social support (“Discussion Forum”) were the most frequently visited components of the website, and more frequent engagement with these components, as well as greater attendance at in-person group sessions, predicted greater percent weight loss at 12 months. Interventions highlighting these features may be particularly effective for weight loss in this population.