bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted inhibition of histone deacetylase 6 in inflammatory diseases
Authors: Ran Jie , Zhou Jun
Published: January 2019

Targeting epigenetic modification of gene expression represents a promising new approach under investigation for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. Accumulating evidence suggests that epigenetic mechanisms, such as histone modification, play a crucial role in a number of inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and contact hypersensitivity. Consistent with this role, histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors have shown efficacy in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. In particular, selective inhibitors of HDAC6, a cytoplasmic member of the HDAC family that contains two deacetylase domains, are under investigation as a potential treatment strategy for inflammatory diseases due to their ability to regulate inflammatory cells and cytokines. Here, we review recent findings highlighting the critical roles of HDAC6 in a variety of inflammatory diseases, and discuss the therapeutic potential of HDAC6 inhibitors in these settings.
18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography in the evaluation of clinically node‐negative non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Takahashi Yusuke , Suzuki Shigeki , Matsutani Noriyuki , Kawamura Masafumi
Published: January 2019

One in four non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients are diagnosed at an early‐stage. Following the results of the National Lung Screening Trial that demonstrated a survival benefit for low‐dose computed tomography screening in high‐risk patients, the incidence of early‐stage NSCLC is expected to increase. Use of 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography during initial diagnosis of these early‐stage lesions has been increasing. Traditionally, positron emission tomography/computed tomography scans have been utilized for mediastinal nodal staging and to rule out distant metastases in suspected early‐stage NSCLC. In clinically node‐negative NSCLC, the use of sublobar resection and selective lymph node dissection has been increasing as a therapeutic option. The higher rate of locoregional recurrences after limited resection and the significant incidence of occult lymph node metastases underscores the need to further stratify clinically node‐negative NSCLC in order to select patients for limited resection versus lobectomy with complete mediastinal lymph node dissection. In this report, we review the published data, and discuss the significance and potential role of 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography evaluation for clinically node‐negative NSCLC. Consequently, the literature review demonstrates that maximum standardized uptake value is a predictive factor for occult nodal metastasis with an accuracy of 55–77%. In addition, maximum standardized uptake value is a predictor for worse overall, as well as disease‐free, survival.
The association between serum total testosterone and progression of hyperglycemia: a 15‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Minooee S. , Ramezani Tehrani F. , Rahmati M. , Amanollahi Soudmand S. , Tohidi M. , Sabet Z. , Azizi F.
Published: January 2019

Background

The association between low testosterone concentration and increased risk of hyperglycemia in men has been demonstrated in observational and interventional studies. However, considering a variety of confounding factors, limited population‐based studies have so far been conducted. Also, no information is available regarding the effect of testosterone on progressive development of dysglycemia.

Objective

To examine the effect of total testosterone on development of pre‐diabetes/diabetes in normoglycemic middle‐aged and older men.

Materials and Methods

Data were obtained from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study, a community‐based prospective cohort of an Iranian population. Analyses were conducted on 903 normoglycemic eligible men aged 30–70 years. An illness‐death model was applied to estimate the probabilities of three transitional phases of normoglycemia→diabetes, normoglycemia→pre‐diabetes, and pre‐diabetes→diabetes.

Results

Over a median follow‐up of 12 years, 0.9% individuals developed diabetes. Per unit increase (ng/mL) in testosterone concentration, the transition rate from normoglycemia to pre‐diabetes decreased by 6% [hazard ratios (HRs): 0.94 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.90, 0.99)]. However, no effect for testosterone on the progression of diabetes from normoglycemia or pre‐diabetes was observed [HRs: 0.79 (95% CI: 0.44, 1.41) and 0.98 (95% CI: 0.84, 1.16), respectively]. High body mass index was a strong predictor of hyperglycemia within all transitions.

Discussion

Independent of major confounding factors, low testosterone was associated with normoglycemia progression to pre‐diabetes, but not with pre‐diabetes to diabetes, which might indirectly highlight the stronger impact of other risk factors after occurrence of pre‐diabetes.

Conclusion

Low testosterone concentrations in men are associated with progression from normoglycemia to pre‐diabetes, but not from pre‐diabetes to diabetes.
The silent success of customs unions
Authors: Gnutzmann Hinnerk , Gnutzmann‐Mkrtchyan Arevik
Published: January 2019

Globally, 81 countries are now part of a customs union (CU), following the rapid proliferation of this type of trade agreement in past decades. Much of this growth has been driven by countries “upgrading” their links from a free trade agreement (FTA) to CU. At the same time, the rapid formation of new FTAs among countries that had no prior agreement in place has largely overshadowed this growth, making CUs the silent success of regional integration. Using the canonical regionalism model, augmented to allow for political bias towards firm interests, we investigate the endogenous choice of trade agreement. We show it is generally politically viable to move from FTA to CU, because such a move is rent‐creating; but for countries without a trade agreement in place, it may be optimal to form an FTA as a stepping stone to reduce the risk of political derailment. Importantly, forming a CU is consistent with member social welfare maximization: as long as trade with the rest of the world does not cease entirely, a CU leads to higher social welfare than either FTA or no agreement. These gains come at the expense of third‐country welfare. If past trends continue, one can expect more FTAs to be upgraded to CU with associated adverse consequences for outsiders.
On the consequences of eliminating capital tax differentials
Authors: Slavík Ctirad , Yazici Hakki
Published: January 2019

In the United States, different types of capital are effectively taxed at different rates. In particular, effective tax rates on structures have been higher than those on equipments. Eliminating these differentials has been the subject of policy debates. This paper analyzes the consequences of eliminating capital tax differentials using an incomplete markets model with equipment–skill complementarity. The reform improves productive efficiency by eliminating distortions in capital accumulation. It also increases the degree of equality by reducing the skill premium. The reform increases average welfare by approximately 0.11%.
Deep phenotyping of 14 new patients with IQSEC2 variants, including monozygotic twins of discordant phenotype
Authors: Radley Jessica A. , O'Sullivan Rory B.G. , Turton Sarah E. , Cox Helen , Vogt Julie , Morton Jenny , Jones Elizabeth , Smithson Sarah , Lachlan Katherine , Rankin Julia , Clayton‐Smith Jill , Willoughby Josh , Elmslie Frances F. , Sansbury Francis H. , Cooper Nicola ,   Deciphering Developmental Disorders (DDD) Study, Balasubramanian Meena
Published: January 2019

Whole‐exome sequencing has established IQSEC2 as a neurodevelopmental disability gene. The IQSEC2 variant phenotype includes developmental delay, intellectual disability, epilepsy, hypotonia, autism, developmental regression, microcephaly and stereotypies but is yet to be fully described. Presented here are 14 new patients with IQSEC2 variants. In addition to the established features, we observed: gait ataxia in 7 of 9 (77.8%), drooling in 9 of 14 (64.2%), early feeding difficulties in 7 of 14 (50%), structural brain abnormalities in 6 of 13 (46.2%), brachycephaly in 5 of 14 (35.7%), and scoliosis and paroxysms of laughter each in 4 of 14 (28.6%). We suggest that these are features of the IQSEC2‐related disorder. Gastrostomy requirement, plagiocephaly, strabismus and cortical blindness, each seen in 2 of 14 (14.3%), may also be associated. Shared facial features were noted in 8 of 14 patients, and shared hair patterning was identified in 5 of 14 patients.

This study further delineates the IQSEC2 phenotypic spectrum and supports the notion of an emerging IQSEC2 syndrome. We draw parallels between the IQSEC2‐related disorder and the Angelman‐/Rett‐/Pitt‐Hopkins syndrome group of conditions and recommend the addition of IQSEC2 to epilepsy and developmental delay gene panels. We observed discordant phenotypes in monozygotic twins and apparent gonadal mosaicism, which has implications for recurrence risk counselling in the IQSEC2‐related disorder.
Nursing narratives and reflective practice: A theoretical review
Authors: Choperena Ana , Oroviogoicoechea Cristina , Zaragoza Salcedo Amparo , Olza Moreno Inés , Jones Dorothy
Published: January 2019

Aim

To explore the literature regarding how nursing narratives have been used to enhance reflective practice.

Design

Theoretical review.

Data sources

A literature search from 1990 – 2017 was conducted in PubMed, CINHAL and PsycINFO databases.

Review methods

After applying the selection criteria, 13 studies were identified. The quality of articles was evaluated.

Results

Three themes were identified as the main components of an ongoing narrative process based on looking back to past clinical experiences, creating spaces for dialogue and bringing the worlds of theory and practice closer together.

Conclusions

This review provides a forum for exploring the use of narratives to enhance reflective practice, which may lead to the acquisition of professional competences.
LncRNA TapSAKI promotes inflammation injury in HK-2 cells and urine derived sepsis-induced kidney injury
Authors: Shen Jun , Liu Li , Zhang Facai , Gu Jiang , Pan Guanghui
Published: January 2019

Objective

To explore the possible mechanism of lncRNA TapSAKI in urine derived sepsis-induced kidney injury.

Materials and methods

In vivo urine-derived sepsis (US) rat model and in vitro LPS-induced HK-2 cells were established, and TapSAKI, miR-22, PTEN, TLR4 and p-p65 expressions were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot. RNA precipitation and RNA pull-down were performed to confirm the interaction between TapSAKI and miR-22.

Results

TapSAKI was up-regulated, miR-22 was down-regulated, PTEN, TLR4 and p-p65 expressions, and inflammatory factors TNF-α and IL-6 levels were up-regulated in kidney tissue of US rats and LPS-induced HK-2 cells. In addition, TapSAKI interacted with miR-22, and negatively modulate miR-22 expression. We also observed TapSAKI promoted PTEN expression, TLR4/NF-κB pathway related proteins TLR4 and p-p65, and apoptosis protein cleaved-caspase-3 through negatively regulating miR-22. Further experiments proved TapSAKI/miR-22/TLR4/NF-κB pathway could promote HK-2 cell apoptosis. Finally, in vivo experiments showed TapSAKI knockdown negatively regulated miR-22 and positively regulate PTEN, decreased renal function indicators blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine, and reduced TNF-α and IL-6.

Conclusion

TapSAKI was elevated in urine derived sepsis-induced kidney injury, and promoted HK-2 cell apoptosis and inflammatory response through miR-22/PTEN/TLR4/NF-κB pathway.
Associations of environment, health history, T‐zone lymphoma, and T‐zone‐like cells of undetermined significance: A case‐control study of aged Golden Retrievers
Authors: Labadie Julia D. , Magzamen Sheryl , Morley Paul S. , Anderson G. Brooke , Yoshimoto Janna , Avery Anne C.
Published: January 2019

Background

T‐zone lymphoma (TZL), an indolent disease in older dogs, comprises approximately 12% of lymphomas in dogs. TZL cells exhibit an activated phenotype, indicating the disease may be antigen‐driven. Prior research found that asymptomatic aged Golden Retrievers (GLDRs) commonly have populations of T‐zone‐like cells (phenotypically identical to TZL) of undetermined significance (TZUS).

Objective

To evaluate associations of inflammatory conditions, TZL and TZUS, using a case‐control study of GLDRs.

Animals

TZL cases (n = 140), flow cytometrically diagnosed, were identified through Colorado State University's Clinical Immunology Laboratory. Non‐TZL dogs, recruited through either a database of owners interested in research participation or the submitting clinics of TZL cases, were subsequently flow cytometrically classified as TZUS (n = 221) or control (n = 147).

Methods

Health history, signalment, environmental, and lifestyle factors were obtained from owner‐completed questionnaires. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were estimated using multivariable logistic regression, obtaining separate estimates for TZL and TZUS (versus controls).

Results

Hypothyroidism (OR, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1‐0.7), omega‐3 supplementation (OR, 0.3; 95% CI, 0.1‐0.6), and mange (OR, 5.5; 95% CI, 1.4‐21.1) were significantly associated with TZL. Gastrointestinal disease (OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 0.98‐5.8) had nonsignificantly increased TZL odds. Two shared associations for TZL and TZUS were identified: bladder infection or calculi (TZL OR, 3.5; 95% CI, 0.96‐12.7; TZUS OR, 5.1; 95% CI, 1.9‐13.7) and eye disease (TZL OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 0.97‐5.2; TZUS OR, 1.9; 95% CI, 0.99‐3.8).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

These findings may elucidate pathways involved in TZUS risk and progression from TZUS to TZL. Further investigation into the protective association of omega‐3 supplements is warranted.
Effect of atorvastatin on oxidative stress and inflammation markers in myxomatous mitral valve disease in dogs: A comparison of subclinical and clinical stages
Authors: Thassakorn Patchaya , Patchanee Papras , Pongkan Wanpitak , Chattipakorn Nipon , Boonyapakorn Chavalit
Published: January 2019

Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is the most common acquired cardiac disorder found in dogs. The disease process can lead to heart failure (HF) and has been found to be associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. Statins exert antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects in humanHFpatients. However, the beneficial effects of statins inMMVDdogs are still unclear. ThirtyMMVDdogs were enrolled in the study and were divided into two groups:MMVDwithoutHFdogs (n = 15) andMMVDwithHFdogs (n = 15). Atorvastatin (8 mg kg−1 day−1) was administered orally to all dogs for 4 weeks. All dogs underwent physical examination and cardiac examination at the beginning and end of the experiment, including baseline values for hematology, blood chemistry profile, lipid profile, N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide, oxidative stress marker (8‐isoprostane), and inflammatory marker (tumor necrosis factor alpha). The results showed that atorvastatin reduced plasma cholesterol levels in both groups. In addition, plasma concentrations of 8‐isoprostane, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide were significantly lower after atorvastatin administration, but only inMMVDdogs in theHFgroup. Atorvastatin found to be associated with possible antioxidant and inflammatory effects in dogs withHFsecondary toMMVD. The potential benefits of statins in dogs withHFmerits further investigation in larger, placebo‐controlled studies.
Educator‐Reported Instructional Characteristics of Grade 1 Reading Interventions within a CBM Assessment System
Authors: Nese Joseph F. T. , Farley Dan , Anderson Daniel
Published: January 2019

We used data from the 2014–2015 easyCBM assessment system to explore the applied reading intervention characteristics in a sample of 3,074 Grade 1 students (and 5,145 interventions) in school districts applying a multitiered systems of support (MTSS) framework. We describe the number of interventions, number of assessments, the intervention start dates, curricula, instructional strategies, tier, group size, frequency, dosage, total time, and quantitative intensity. We found variance across all instructional variables, with 156 curricula and 59 instructional strategies applied. Based on our data, a “typical” intervention was a Tier 2 intervention that began before October, was delivered for 30 minutes/day for 5 days/week in a group with three to five students, was changed once if at all, and student progress was most likely monitored with word reading fluency measures.
‘Very Truly, I Tell You, Before Abraham was, I am’: A Theological Treatise on the Concept of Time in John’s Gospel
Authors: Garton Alexander D.
Published: January 2019

This essay analyses temporal peculiarity in John’s Gospel, identified as eschatological and narratological in nature. Part one employs historical‐critical and literary‐critical exegesis to explain the interrelation and function of these peculiarities, while part two derives a temporal metaphysic from the exegesis to explain the concept of time in the Gospel. This exposition is used to make sense of the Gospel’s claim that the one who possesses eternal life will never die. The essay concludes that the Gospel’s future and realised eschatology act as reflections of one another, and argues that the future eschatological scheme functions as a distension of the realised scheme.
The Metaphysics of Mental Files
Authors: Prosser Simon
Published: January 2019

There is much to be said for a diachronic or interpersonal individuation of singular modes of presentation (MOPs) in terms of a criterion of epistemic transparency between thought tokens. This way of individuatingMOPs has been discussed recently within themental filesframework, though the issues discussed here arise for all theories that individuateMOPs in terms of relations among tokens. All such theories face objections concerning apparent failures of the transitivity of the ‘sameMOP’ relation. For mental files, these transitivity failures most obviously occur because mental files can merge or undergo fission. In this paper I argue that this problem is easily resolved once mental files are properly construed ascontinuants, whose metaphysics is analogous to that of persons or physical objects. All continuants can undergo fission or fusion, leading to similar transitivity problems, but there are well‐established theories of persistence that accommodate this. I suggest that, in particular, the stage theory best suits the purposes of a continuant theory ofMOPs.
You are your brand: Self‐branding and the marketization of self
Authors: Whitmer Jennifer M.
Published: January 2019

Personal branding was popularized in the late twentieth century through a spate of self‐help literature which enjoined workers to take responsibility for themselves by taking an entrepreneurial approach to the self, seeing themselves as products to be marketed as a means of managing the risks of an unstable labor market. Self‐branding discourse frames the “authentic self” as a source of material value which workers can leverage to build a reputation, which they can later capitalize upon in their attempts to remain competitive as workers. This article examines the literature on self‐branding to trace its origins as a framework for conceptualizing the self. The discourse of self‐branding proposes a singular, profitable self which is at once authentic and consistent. In this review of self‐branding literature, I explore what thinking of the self as a brand does to the way individuals relate to themselves. I examine the social construction of authentic self‐brands, how branding the self on social media impacts the process of self‐presentation, and how workers experience the imperative to self‐brand.
HLA‐A promoter, coding, and 3′UTR sequences in a Brazilian cohort, and their evolutionary aspects
Authors: Lima Thálitta H. A. , Souza Andreia S. , Porto Iane O. P. , Paz Michelle A. , Veiga‐Castelli Luciana C. , Oliveira Maria Luiza G. , Donadi Eduardo A. , Meyer Diogo , Sabbagh Audrey , Mendes‐Junior Celso T. , Castelli Erick C.
Published: January 2019

HLA‐A is the second most polymorphic locus of the human leucocyte antigen (HLA) complex encoding a key molecule for antigen presentation and NK cell modulation. Many studies have evaluated HLA‐A variability in worldwide populations, focusing mainly on exons, but the regulatory segments have been poorly characterized. HLA‐A variability is particularly high in the segment encoding the peptide‐binding groove (exons 2 and 3), which is related to the antigen presentation function and the balancing selection in these segments. Here we evaluate the genetic diversity of the HLA‐A gene considering a continuous segment encompassing the extended promoter (1.5 kb upstream of the first translated ATG), all exons and introns, and the entire 3′ untranslated region, by using massively parallel sequencing. To achieve this goal, we used a freely available bioinformatics workflow that optimizes read mapping for HLA genes and defines complete sequences using either the phase among variable sites directly observed in sequencing data and probabilistic models. The HLA‐A variability detected in a highly admixed population sample from Brazil shows that the HLA‐A regulatory segments present few, but divergent sequences. The regulatory segments are in close association with the coding alleles. Both exons and introns are highly variable. Moreover, patterns of molecular diversity suggest that the promoter, in addition to the coding region, might be under the same selective pressure, but a different scenario arises when it comes to exon 4 and the 3′UTR segment.
Identification of the novel HLA‐B allele, HLA‐B*52:56 by sequence‐based typing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Li Wangxia , Xu Jing , Yang Ru , Shi Weidong
Published: January 2019

HLA‐B*52:56 differs from HLA‐B*52:01:01:01 by one nucleotide exchange at position 107(T > C) with one amino exchange.
Loss of fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase causes light‐dependent increases in protochlorophyllide and cell death in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhi Tiantian , Zhou Zhou , Qiu Bo , Zhu Qi , Xiong Xingyao , Ren Chunmei
Published: January 2019

Fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase (FAH) catalyses the final step of the tyrosine degradation pathway, which is essential to animals but was of unknown importance in plants until we found that mutation of Short‐day Sensitive Cell Death1 (SSCD1), encoding Arabidopsis FAH, results in cell death under short‐day conditions. The sscd1 mutant accumulates succinylacetone (SUAC), an abnormal metabolite caused by loss of FAH. Succinylacetone is an inhibitor of δ‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) dehydratase (ALAD), which is involved in chlorophyll (Chl) biosynthesis. In this study, we investigated whether sscd1 cell death is mediated by Chl biosynthesis and found that ALAD activity is repressed in sscd1 and that protochlorophyllide (Pchlide), an intermediate of Chl biosynthesis, accumulates at lower levels in etiolated sscd1 seedlings. However, it was interesting that Pchlide in sscd1 might increase after transfer from light to dark and that HEMA1 and CHLH are upregulated in the light–dark transition before Pchlide levels increased. Upon re‐illumination after Pchlide levels had increased, reactive oxygen species marker genes, including singlet oxygen‐induced genes, are upregulated, and the sscd1 cell death phenotype appears. In addition, Arabidopsis WT seedlings treated with SUAC mimic sscd1 in decline of ALAD activity and accumulation of Pchlide as well as cell death. These results demonstrate that increase in Pchlide causes cell death in sscd1 upon re‐illumination and suggest that a decline in the Pchlide pool due to inhibition of ALAD activity by SUAC impairs the repression of ALA synthesis from the light–dark transition by feedback control, resulting in activation of the Chl biosynthesis pathway and accumulation of Pchlide in the dark.
PHASE SHIFT METHODOLOGY ASSESSMENT OF AN AUTOMOTIVE MIXED FLOW TURBOCHARGER TURBINE UNDER PULSATING FLOW CONDITIONS
Authors: Padzillah M. H. , Rajoo S. , Martinez-Botas R. F.
Published: January 2019

The reciprocating nature of an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) inevitably results in unsteady flow in the exhaust manifold. In a turbocharged engine, it means that the turbine is subjected to highly pulsating flows at its inlet. The finite time taken by the travelling pressure waves necessitates the need for phase-shifting method before any instantaneous parameter can be analyzed. In a turbocharger test-rig where the instantaneous isentropic power is evaluated upstream of the instantaneous actual power, one of the parameter has to be time-shifted in order to obtain meaningful instantaneous turbine efficiency. This research aims to compare two different methods of phase shifting which are by peak power matching and summation of sonic and bulk flow velocity. In achieving this aim, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models of full stage turbine operating at 20 Hz, 40 Hz, 60 Hz and 80 Hz have been developed and validated. Instantaneous efficiency was calculated at different locations and the order of calculated efficiency throughout the pulse is analyzed. Results have shown that phase shift using summation of sonic and bulk flow velocity indicated more reasonable efficiency values, thus the method could be used with high confidence for analysis involving unsteady turbine performance.
KESAN SUDUT PUSARAN TERHADAP PEMBAKARAN MENGGUNAKAN PEMUSAR JEJARIAN DWI ALIRAN
Authors: Rahim Muhammad Roslan , Mohd Ja’afar Mohammad Nazri
Published: January 2019

Development of combustion systems which involves retrofitting or design of new burners, is made to reduce the formation of pollutant emissions. The reduction of this pollutant emission results from the complete mixing of fuel and air during the combustion process. Meanwhile, non-complete mixing of fuel and air during combustion process can cause ignition problem and create problems in terms of flame stability and combustion efficiency. This article describes a study on the effects of swirling flow generated by a double radial swirler on flame characteristics that is related to the emission of NO. The double radial swirlers used in this study have the angles of 30°/40°, 30°/50° and 30°/60°. Diesel is used as a fuel in this study. The results show that all double radial swirlers used have different effects on the flame characteristics and temperature profile. From all these double radial swirlers, the one with an angle of 30°/60° produces flame with high temperature, short flame length with blue colour and wide spread.
COMPARISON OF EXPERIMENTAL, 3D AND 1D MODEL FOR A MIXED-FLOW TURBINE UNDER PULSATING FLOW CONDITIONS
Authors: Soon Chiong Meng , Padzillah Muhamad Hasbullah , Rajoo Srithar , Romagnoli Alessandro , W. Costall Aaron , F. Martinez-Botas Ricardo
Published: January 2019

The pulse flow performance of a turbocharger turbine is known to be different than its corresponding steady flow performance. This often leads to less-than-satisfactory 1D engine model prediction. In this study, the effectiveness of a 1D pulse flow turbine model is assessed against experimental data with the aid of 3D CFD model. The turbine under study is a single-entry variable geometry mixed-flow turbine. The result shows highly comparable pulse flow swallowing capacity and actual power characteristics between 1D and 3D models. The over-prediction in 1D actual power magnitude is found to be due to the simplification of combining nozzle and rotor stage pressure loss together.
SHEAR PROPERTY OF STRUCTURAL EPOXY ADHESIVE EXPOSED TO TROPICAL WEATHERING CONDITION
Authors: Abu Hassan Shukur , Ismail Yob Saed , Mohd. Sam Abdul Rahman , Abdul Hanan Umar , Wahit Mat Uzir
Published: January 2019

As a consequence of tropical climate featuring abundant rain and sunshine throughout the year, adhesive bonded joints undergo substantial exposure to moisture and elevated temperatures. It is known that the degradation of adhesive materials such as structural epoxy due to weathering could affect the overall bond performance of structural integrity of reinforced concrete such as carbon fibre reinforced polymer composites (CFRP) plate system. The objective of the study is to investigate the in-plane shear properties of structural epoxy material exposed to tropical environmental conditions using Arcan Test Method. The epoxy adhesive was casted in a closed metal mould to produce butterfly shaped specimens. The specimens were exposed to four conditions; laboratory, outdoor, plain water, and salt water. The specimens were tested for shear properties and failed in brittle form. Microstructure analysis was performed to study the fracture surface of the test specimens. The study showed that the tropical exposure conditions influenced the shear strength of the epoxy material, especially for those exposed to plain and salt water conditions, which were 32% lower than the control specimen for specimens exposed to plain water followed by salt water (26.6%), laboratory (25.4%) and finally outdoor (18.4%).
Political Dimension in Pan-African Cross-border Banking: An Inhibitor or Catalyst?
Authors: Michael Okoche
Published: January 2019

The emergence and the dominance of African banks in Africa have been touted as one of the popular mechanisms for financial development leading to a concept termed as Pan-African cross-border banking. African Banks have become dominant in the African market as opposed to European colonial banks substantially increasing their geographic footprints on the continent. African banks have become economically significant beyond their home countries and of systematic importance in a number of jurisdictions. This systematically examined the influence of the political environment on Pan-African cross-border banking using Kenya Commercial bank as a case study.Interpretive research paradigm guided the study seeking using qualitative data by interviewing employees, managers, and policymakers from the three subsidiaries of Kenya Commercial Bank; Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi. This was further supported by secondary data collected from journal articles and reports from the Kenya Commercial Bank.The study established that political environment plays an important role in influencing Pan-African cross-border banking either through catalysing or inhibiting. Despite effort integration by African Union, regional unions like East African Community there still areas for improvement. In order to enhance Pan-African cross-border banking, there has to be systematically management of political environment which was distorted by history, ideologies, different political systems, different regulatory frameworks between the subsidiaries and home countries. This will further enhance the significance of Pan-African banks African cross-border banks enhancing economic development within Africa.
Chatbots on the Rise: A New Narrative in Journalism
Authors: Veglis Andreas , Maniou Theodora A.
Published: January 2019

With the advent of Web 2.0, new forms of journalism arose, paving the way for the implementation of computational and automatization processes in all aspects of mass communication. As such, chatbots have already been adapted in the news media platforms bringing forward a series of issues and effects upon journalistic narrative, content and professional practices. This paper presents the role of chatbots and their characteristics, discusses the application of different types of chatbots in the news media and presents a theoretical overview of the advantages and disadvantages regarding their adaptation in journalism, as well as key ethical concerns connected to the emergence of this new journalistic narrative.
Resonant acoustic scattering by two spherical bubbles
Authors: Valier-Brasier Tony , Conoir Jean-Marc
Published: January 2019

The mutual interaction between two close bubbles in an acoustic field is studied. This interaction is modeled in the linear framework of the multiple scattering theory using spherical harmonics expansions and the addition theorem. In order to deal with small as well as large bubbles, viscous dissipation in the liquid, thermal dissipation in the gas, and surface tension are taken into account in the calculations of the scattering coefficients of a unique bubble. Under the assumption of the long wavelengths, the scattering coefficient of the monopolar mode is linked to the one obtained by using the Rayleigh-Plesset equation. The exact characteristic equation providing the symmetric and antisymmetric resonances of the two bubbles is established. Numerical results show that a great number of modes of vibration is required to describe the acoustic field around the bubbles. Moreover, whatever the spacing between two identical bubbles, the scattering cross section has a maximum value at the frequency of the symmetric mode while the antisymmetric mode is not detected. However, the strengthening of the scattering observed close to the symmetric resonance frequency is clearly due to the presence of the antisymmetric mode.
Disruption of Apicoplast Biogenesis by Chemical Stabilization of an Imported Protein Evades the Delayed-Death Phenotype in Malaria Parasites
Authors: Boucher Michael J. , Yeh Ellen
Published: January 2019

Malaria is a major cause of global childhood mortality. To sustain progress in disease control made in the last decade, new antimalarial therapies are needed to combat emerging drug resistance. Malaria parasites contain a relict chloroplast called the apicoplast, which harbors new targets for drug discovery. Unfortunately, some drugs targeting apicoplast pathways exhibit a delayed-death phenotype, which results in a slow onset-of-action that precludes their use as fast-acting, frontline therapies. Identification of druggable apicoplast biogenesis factors that will avoid the delayed-death phenotype is an important priority. Here, we find that chemical stabilization of an apicoplast-targeted mDHFR domain disrupts apicoplast biogenesis and inhibits parasite growth after a single lytic cycle, suggesting a non-delayed-death target. Our finding indicates that further interrogation of the mechanism-of-action of this exogenous fusion protein may reveal novel therapeutic avenues.
Microinterventional endocapsular nucleus disassembly: novel technique and results of first-in-human randomised controlled study
Authors: Ianchulev Tsontcho , Chang David F , Koo Edward , MacDonald Susan , Calvo Ernesto , Tyson Farrell Toby , Vasquez Andrea , Ahmed Iqbal Ike K
Published: January 2019

Aim

To assess the safety and efficacy of microinterventional endocapsular nuclear fragmentation in moderate to severe cataracts.

Methods

This was a prospective single-masked multisurgeon interventional randomised controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.govNCT02843594) where 101 eyes of 101 subjects with grade 3‒4+ nuclear cataracts were randomised to torsional phacoemulsification alone (controls) or torsional phacoemulsification with adjunctive endocapsular nuclear fragmentation using a manual microinterventional nitinol filament loop device (miLOOP group). Outcome measures were phacoemulsification efficiency as measured by ultrasound energy (cumulative dispersed energy (CDE) units) and fluidics requirements (total irrigation fluid used) as well as incidence of intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Results

Only high-grade advanced cataracts were enrolled with more than 85% of eyes with baseline best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/200 or worse in either group. Mean CDE was 53% higher in controls (32.8±24.9 vs 21.4±13.1 with miLOOP assistance) (p=0.004). Endothelial cell loss after surgery was low and similar between groups (7‒8%, p=0.561) One-month BCVA averaged 20/27 Snellen in miLOOP eyes and 20/24 in controls. No direct complications were caused by the miLOOP. In two cases, capsular tears occurred during IOL implantation and in all remaining cases during phacoemulsification, with none occurring during the miLOOP nucleus disassembly part of the procedure.

Conclusions

Microinterventional endocapsular fragmentation with the manual, disposable miLOOP device achieved consistent, ultrasound-free, full-thickness nucleus disassembly and significantly improved overall phaco efficiency in advanced cataracts.

Trial registration number

NCT02843594
Use of isotretinoin and risk of depression in patients with acne: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Changqiang , Chen Jianmei , Wang Wo , Ai Ming , Zhang Qi , Kuang Li
Published: January 2019

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the association between the use of isotretinoin and the risk of depression in patients with acne.

Design

This was a meta-analysis in which the standardised mean difference (SMD) and the relative risk (RR) were used for data synthesis employing the random-effects model.

Setting

Studies were identified via electronic searches of PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library from inception up to 28 December 2017.

Participants

Patients with acne.

Interventions

Studies comparing isotretinoin with other interventions in patients with acne were included.

Results

Twenty studies were selected. The analysis of 17 studies showed a significant association of the use of isotretinoin with improved symptoms compared with the baseline before treatment (SMD = −0.33, 95% CI −0.51 to −0.15, p<0.05;I2=76.6%, p<0.05)). Four studies were related to the analysis of the risk of depression. The pooled data indicated no association of the use of isotretinoin with the risk of depressive disorders (RR=1.15, 95% CI 0.60 to 2.21, p=0.14). The association of the use of isotretinoin with the risk of depressive disorders was statistically significant on pooling retrospective studies (RR=1.39, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.84, p=0.02), but this association was not evident on pooling prospective studies (RR=0.85, 95% CI 0.60 to 2.21, p=0.86).

Conclusions

This study suggested an association of the use of isotretinoin in patients with acne with significantly improved depression symptoms. Future randomised controlled trials are needed to verify the present findings.
Silent cerebral infarction and cognitive function following TAVI: an observational two-centre UK comparison of the first-generation CoreValve and second-generation Lotus valve
Authors: Musa Tarique Al , Uddin Akhlaque , Loveday Catherine , Dobson Laura E , Igra Mark , Richards Fiona , Swoboda Peter P , Singh Anvesha , Garg Pankaj , Foley James R J , Fent Graham J , Goddard Anthony J P , Malkin Christopher , Plein Sven , Blackman Daniel J , McCann Gerald P , Greenwood John P
Published: January 2019

Objective

To compare the incidence of silent cerebral infarction and impact on cognitive function following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) with the first-generation CoreValve (Medtronic, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA) and second-generation Lotus valve (Boston Scientific, Natick Massachusetts, USA).

Design

A prospective observational study comprising a 1.5 T cerebral MRI scan, performed preoperatively and immediately following TAVI, and neurocognitive assessments performed at baseline, 30 days and 1 year follow-up.

Setting

University hospitals of Leeds and Leicester, UK.

Patients

66 (80.6±8.0 years, 47% male) patients with high-risk severe symptomatic aortic stenosis recruited between April 2012 and May 2015.

Main outcome measures

Incidence of new cerebral microinfarction and objective decline in neurocognitive performance.

Results

All underwent cerebral MRI at baseline and immediately following TAVI, and 49 (25 Lotus, 24 CoreValve) completed neurocognitive assessments at baseline, 30 days and 1 year. There was a significantly greater incidence of new cerebral microinfarction observed following the Lotus TAVI (23 (79%) vs 22 (59%), p=0.025) with a greater number of new infarcts per patient (median 3.5 (IQR 7.0) vs 2.0 (IQR 3.0), p=0.002). The mean volume of infarcted cerebral tissue per patient was equivalent following the two prostheses (p=0.166). More patients suffered new anterior (14 (48%) vs 2 (5%), p=0.001) and vertebrobasilar (15 (52%) vs 7 (19%), p=0.005) lesions following Lotus. Lotus was associated with a decline in verbal memory and psychomotor speed at 30 days. However, performance longitudinally at 1 year was preserved in all neurocognitive domains.

Conclusions

There was a higher incidence of silent cerebral microinfarction and a greater number of lesions per patient following Lotus compared with CoreValve. However, there was no objective decline in neurocognitive function discernible at 1 year following TAVI with either prosthesis.
Feasibility randomised controlled trial of a guided workbook intervention to support work-related goals among cancer survivors in the UK
Authors: Grunfeld Elizabeth A , Schumacher Lauren , Armaou Maria , Woods Pernille L , Rolf Pauline , Sutton Andrew John , Zarkar Anjali , Sadhra Steven S
Published: January 2019

Objectives

Employment following illness is associated with better physical and psychological functioning. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a theoretically led workbook intervention designed to support patients with cancer returning to work.

Design

Parallel-group randomised controlled trial with embedded qualitative interviews.

Setting

Oncology clinics within four English National Health Service Trusts.

Participants

Patients who had received a diagnosis of breast, gynaecological, prostate or colorectal cancer and who had been receiving treatment for a minimum of two weeks.

Intervention

A self-guided WorkPlan workbook designed to support patients with cancer to return to work with fortnightly telephone support calls to discuss progress. The control group received treatment as usual and was offered the workbook at the end of their 12-month follow-up.

Outcome measures

We assessed aspects of feasibility including eligibility, recruitment, data collection, attrition, feasibility of the methodology, acceptability of the intervention and potential to calculate cost-effectiveness.

Results

The recruitment rate of eligible patients was 44%; 68 participants consented and 58 (85%) completed baseline measures. Randomisation procedures were acceptable, data collection methods (including cost-effectiveness data) were feasible and the intervention was acceptable to participants. Retention rates at 6-month and 12-month follow-up were 72% and 69%, respectively. At 6-month follow-up, 30% of the usual care group had returned to full-time or part-time work (including phased return to work) compared with 43% of the intervention group. At 12 months, the percentages were 47% (usual care) and 68% (intervention).

Conclusions

The findings confirm the feasibility of a definitive trial, although further consideration needs to be given to increasing the participation rates among men and black and ethnic minority patients diagnosed with cancer.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN56342476; Pre-results.
Characterising the costs of the Global Polio Laboratory Network: a survey-based analysis
Authors: Duintjer Tebbens Radboud J , Diop Ousmane M , Pallansch Mark A , Oberste M Steven , Thompson Kimberly M
Published: January 2019

Objective

To characterise the costs, including for environmental surveillance (ES), of the Global Polio Laboratory Network (GPLN) that provides laboratory support to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).

Design and participants

We conducted a survey of the network across 92 countries of the 146 GPLN laboratories plus three non-GPLN laboratories that concentrate environmental samples to collect information about their activities, characteristics and costs during 2016. We estimate the total costs using regression of reported responses and complementing the findings with GPEI data.

Results

We received responses from 132 (89%) of the 149 laboratories, with variable response rates for individual questions. We estimate that processing samples of patients with acute flaccid paralysis leads to total costs of approximately $28 million per year (2016 US$) based on extrapolation from reported costs of $16 million, of which 61% were supported by internal (national) funds. Fifty-nine (45%) of the 132 responding laboratories reported supporting ES and we estimate an additional $5.3 million of recurring costs for ES activities performed by the laboratories. The reported costs do not include an estimated additional $10 million of annual global and regional costs to coordinate and support the GPLN. On average, the staff supported by funding for polio in the responding laboratories spent 30% of their time on non-polio activities. We estimate total costs for laboratory support of approximately $43 million (note that this estimate does not include any field or other non-laboratory costs of polio surveillance).

Conclusions

Although countries contribute significantly to the GPLN financing, many laboratories currently depend on GPEI funds, and these laboratories also support the laboratory component of surveillance activities for other diseases. Sustaining critical global surveillance for polioviruses and transitioning support for other disease programmes will require continued significant funding after polio certification.
Environmental risk factors of leptospirosis in urban settings: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Abdul Mutalip Mohd Hatta , Mahmud Mohd Amierul Fikri , Lodz Noor Aliza , Yoep Norzawati , Muhammad Eida Nurhadzira , Ahmad Ahzairin , Hashim Mohd Hazrin , Muhamad Nor Asiah
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Leptospirosis is the most common zoonotic disease that causes morbidity and mortality worldwide. The disease can cause sporadic epidemics and recent epidemics have become more apparent in urban localities. There is lack of documented evidence on the specific risk factors of leptospirosis infection among the urbanites, thereby impeding initiatives for prevention in urban settings. We aim to systematically search published articles and synthesise evidence on the risk factors associated with leptospirosis infection among the susceptible populations in urban localities, particularly to identify the risk factors of non-recreational leptospirosis infection.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a systematic review of observational studies that investigated environmental risk factors of leptospirosis in urban localities. The search will be performed for any eligible articles from selected electronic databases from 1970 until May 2018. The study will include any studies that investigated risk factors of confirmed leptospirosis cases who acquired the infection in urban locality, particularly exposures from the non-recreational and non-water-related activities. Study selection and reporting will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guideline. All data will be extracted using a standardised data extraction form and quality of the studies will be assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale guideline. Descriptive and meta-analysis will be performed by calculating the standardised median ORs and risk ratios for types of the non-recreational risk factors stratified by social, living conditions and environmental exposures, types of reservoirs and transmissions and types of activities and employments associated with leptospirosis infection in urban locality.

Ethics and dissemination

No primary data will be collected thus no formal ethical approval is required. The results will be disseminated though a peer-reviewed publication and conference presentation.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018090820.