bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yogurt Making as a Tool To Understand the Food Fermentation Process for Nonscience Participants
Authors: Agustinah Widya , Warjoto Renna Eliana , Canti Meda
Published: May 2019

Designing an outreach program concerning food fermentation for nonscience participants offers an opportunity to introduce the basic principles of microbiology and their application in food preservation. This program can be adapted to microbiology courses at the undergraduate level to help students understand the concept of food fermentation and its process control. Yogurt is a type of fermented milk that is commercially available in Indonesia. While yogurt fermentation is usually performed in a closed fermenter in an aseptically controlled room, yogurt can also be made at home using lactic acid bacteria culture starters, such as
Lactobacillus delbrueckii
ssp.
bulgaricus
and
Streptococcus thermophilus
, and applying proper hygiene and sanitation procedures. Yogurt making requires not only appropriate ingredients but also an understanding of the microbiological concepts of yogurt fermentation in order to enable control and modification of the fermentation process so that the end product is safe to consume. Through this activity, we provided training to residents from a nonscience background in Bogor, Indonesia, for simple and feasible homemade yogurt production using a variety of milk substrates and sources of starter culture. All participants prepared the ingredients and sanitized kitchen equipment, performed the yogurt fermentation process, and evaluated the product’s sensory properties. Participants were challenged to explore the differences among various yogurt batches. This activity can be completed in two days, and the recipe could be modified once the participants have understood the concept of yogurt fermentation.
The Influenza A Virus M2 Protein
trans
-Complementation System Offers a Set of Tools for the Undergraduate Virology Laboratory
Authors: Grantham Michael L. , McCown Matthew F. , Pekosz Andrew
Published: May 2019

An authentic, hands-on experience in the laboratory is an important part of any undergraduate biology course. However, there are a limited number of mammalian virus systems that students can work with safely in an undergraduate teaching laboratory. For many systems, the risk to the students is too high. The influenza A virus M2 protein
trans
-complementation system bridges this gap. This system consists of a virus with mutations that prevent the expression of the essential M2 protein; therefore this virus can only replicate in a cell line that provides M2 in
trans
. Here, we describe the use of this system to carry out hemagglutination, real-time reverse transcriptase PCR, 50% tissue culture infectious dose, and plaque assays in an undergraduate lab setting.
The Convergent Effect of International Collaboration between Young Leaders of Two Global Societies: Strengthening Microbiology Education and Training Practices Worldwide
Authors: Meštrović Tomislav , Cevik Muge , Pinto Tatiana Castro Abreu , Barać Aleksandra , Servín-Garcidueñas Luis E. , Ong David S.Y.
Published: May 2019

There has never been a more critical time than the present for young microbiologists to engage in continuous postgraduate education. Next-generation microbiologists need to integrate several scientific disciplines in the early stages of their careers to keep up with the ever-changing nature of microbiology (advent of high-throughput sequencing platforms, bioinformatics, complex omic, culture and systems-biology approaches) and to ensure timely response to the current global health and biodiversity threats. Here we propose that international collaboration of young experts would help to address the challenges in microbiology training and serve as a communication bridge between senior and early career scientists. To establish a one-of-a-kind collaboration, the Trainee Association (TAE) of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) and the Young Leaders Circle (YLC) of the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) have joined forces to adequately represent the interests of young members within the two largest societies in the field of microbiology. Through this partnership, both societies aim to promote continuous education for young scientists and the general public. Additionally, we intend to identify shared objectives and introduce joint activities that could lead to a beneficial exchange process for a long-lasting relationship. This partnership further contributes to advancing both the quality and quantity of education.
A Reading-Writing Assignment Based on Popular Literature To Enhance Learning about Microbiology
Authors: O’Connor Tracy
Published: May 2019

In order to stimulate engagement in microbiology, a reading-writing assignment based on a narrative popular science book was created for a one-semester introductory microbiology course. In order to encourage critical thinking, students were required to formulate a question related to the book to research and report on. Active learning was supported by guidance and feedback at each stage of the assignment. The assignment components were graded according to a rubric based on the learning outcomes: reading comprehension, question formulation, literature research, synthesis, and written communication. Median scores for the assignment components indicated that students successfully demonstrated the learning outcomes. A question was included on the final examination, asking students to summarize their most important learning from the assignment. Qualitative analysis of the exam answers revealed a wide variety of lessons learned about the practical applications of microbiology. On average, students scored better on the assignment and the assignment-related exam question than on the final exam. There was no significant correlation between a student’s performance on the final exam and their performance on either of the assignment-related assessments, suggesting that the assignment benefited students regardless of their exam-taking capability. According to surveys administered at the end of the introductory microbiology course and again when students were enrolled in a senior microbiology course, a strong majority of students found the reading-writing assignment to be engaging and informative. This assignment may be modified in various ways in order to suit the needs of other courses.
Schwannoma of the extracranial portion of the accessory nerve presenting as spinal adenopathy
Authors: El Fakiri Mohamed Mehdi , Lahjaouj Meryem , Roubal Mohammed , Mahtar Mohammed
Published: May 2019

Schwannomas are benign tumours arising from Schwann cells in the peripheral nerve. The schwannoma of the accessory nerve is a very rare entity. We report a case of Schwannoma of the extracranial accessory nerve. A 22-year-old man presented with a slow-growing mass, located on the right upper neck. The patient did not have any neurological deficit. CT scan showed a hypodense mass behind sternocleidomastoid muscle. The suspected diagnosis was an adenopathy of the accessory spinal chain. Surgery was done via transcervical approach. The histopathological analysis concluded with a diagnosis of schwannoma. No recurrence was noted at the follow-up examination 29 months after surgery.
Effects of an expanded Uber-like transport system on access to and use of maternal and newborn health services: findings of a prospective cohort study in Homa Bay, Kenya
Authors: Onono Maricianah Atieno , Wahome Samuel , Wekesa Pauline , Adhu Catherine Kidiga , Waguma Lawrence Wandei , Serem Titus , Owenga Mildred Anyango , Ong'wen Patricia
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Kenya’s progress towards reducing maternal and neonatal deaths is at present ‘insufficient’. These deaths could be prevented if the three delays, that is, in deciding to seek healthcare (delay 1), in accessing formal healthcare (delay 2) and in receiving quality healthcare (delay 3), are comprehensively addressed. We designed a mobile phone enhanced 24 hours Uber-like transport navigation system coupled with personalised and interactive gestation-based text messages to address these delays. Our main objective was to evaluate the impact of this intervention on women’s adherence to recommended antenatal (ANC) and postnatal care (PNC) regimes and facility birth.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study. Women were eligible to participate in the study if they were 15 years or older and less than 28 weeks gestation. We defined cases as those who received the standard of care plus the intervention and the control group as those who received the standard of care only. For analysis, we used logistic regression analysis and report crude and adjusted OR (aOR) and 95 % CI.

Results

Cases (women who received the intervention) had five times higher odds of having four or more ANC visits (aOR=4.7, 95% CI 3.20 to 7.09), three times higher odds of taking between 30 and 60 min to reach a health facility for delivery (aOR=3.14, 95% CI 2.37 to 4.15) and four times higher odds of undergoing at least four PNC visits (aOR=4.10, 95% CI 3.11 to 5.36).

Conclusion

An enhanced community-based Uber-like transport navigation system coupled with personalised and interactive gestation-based text messages significantly increased the utilisation of ANC and PNC services as well as shortened the time taken to reach an appropriate facility for delivery compared with standard care.
CPL effective dark energy from the backreaction effect
Authors: Yao Yan-Hong , Meng Xin-He
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we interpret the dark energy as an effect caused by small-scale inhomogeneities of the universe with the use of the spatial averaged approach of Buchert [Gen. Relat. Gravit. 32, 105 (2000); 33, 1381 (2001)]. The model considered here adopts the Chevallier–Polarski–Linder (CPL) parametrizations of the equation of state of the effective perfect fluid from the backreaction effect. Thanks to the effective geometry introduced by Larena et al. [Phys. Rev. D 79, 083011 (2009)] in their previous work, we confront such backreaction model with the latest type Ia supernova and Hubble parameter observations, coming out with the results that reveal the difference between the Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker model and backreaction model.
Freshness Classification of Horse Mackerels with E-Nose System Using Hybrid Binary Decision Tree Structure
Authors: Güney Selda , Atasoy Ayten
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study is to test the freshness of horse mackerels by using a low cost electronic nose system composed of eight different metal oxide sensors. The process of freshness evaluation covers a scala of seven different classes corresponding to 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13 storage days. These seven classes are categorized according to six different classifiers in the proposed binary decision tree structure. Classifiers at each particular node of the tree are individually trained with the training dataset. To increase success in determining the level of fish freshness, one of the k-Nearest Neighbors (k-NN), Support Vector Machines (SVM), Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) and Bayes methods is selected for every classifier and the feature spaces change in every node. The significance of this study among the others in the literature is that this proposed decision tree structure has never been applied to determine fish freshness before. Because the freshness of fish is observed under actual market storage conditions, the classification is more difficult. The results show that the electronic nose designed with the proposed decision tree structure is able to determine the freshness of horse mackerels with 85.71% accuracy for the test data obtained one year after the training process. Also, the performances of the proposed methods are compared against conventional methods such as Bayes, k-NN, and LDA.
FROM FRACTAL TO A GENERALIZED FRACTAL: NON-POWER-FUNCTION STRUCTAL METRIC
Authors: LIANG YINGJIE , XU WEI , CHEN WEN , WEBERSZPIL JOSE
Published: May 2019

This paper proposes a general time-space metric by an extension of the power-function-based fractal concept to the structural function fabric. The structural function can be an arbitrary-function to describe complex metric underlying physical systems. We call such a metric “structal”, and the fractal metric is its special case. This work is inspired by the recent work on the structural derivative, which takes into account the significant influence of time-space fabric of a complex system on its physical behaviors, in particular, the ultraslow diffusion. Based on the structal concept, this study gives the structural time-space transformation and introduces the general diffusion models. In addition, the fundamental solutions of structural derivative equations and statistics implication of the structal metric are also briefly discussed.
A FRACTAL MODEL FOR RELATIVE PERMEABILITY IN FRACTURES UNDER STRESS DEPENDENCE
Authors: LEI GANG , LIAO QINZHUO , PATIL SHIRISH
Published: May 2019

Relative permeability (RP) plays a critical role in fluid flow and transport in fracture systems, with considerable advances in theoretical and computational methods over the last few decades. Nevertheless, there is no standard procedure for measuring RP in fractures, and the essential controls on RP in rough fractures are not yet definitive. In this study, we developed a theoretical model to investigate the RP in inclined rough fractures under stress dependence based on fractal theory. The topography of the rough fracture surfaces is well addressed by fractal theory and lubrication theory, and thin bending theory is used to characterize permeability evolution characteristics of fractures under stress conditions. The model accounts for multiple key factors, including the microstructure of the rough fractures (e.g. the fractal dimension, the area ratio, the length ratio, and the maximum and minimum base radii), rock lithology (e.g. elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio), gravity and effective stress. The predicted results agree well with the available experimental data. It is inferred that the effect of gravity on RP decreases as pressure gradient increases. In general, the theoretical fractal model reveals the coupled flow-deformation mechanisms in fractures, and tends to improve the efficacy of reservoir development strategies. With this new analytical solution, it can help to reduce the uncertainty in flow through fractures and obtain data with high accuracy.
A Review of Active Noise Control Applications on Noise Barrier in Three-Dimensional/Open Space: Myths and Challenges
Authors: Lee Hsiao Mun , Wang Zhaomeng , Lim Kian Meng , Lee Heow Pueh
Published: May 2019

Active noise control (ANC), with counteracting sound in exact equal magnitude and opposite phase to the noise to be controlled, is often considered as a potential solution for solving complex noise problems. However, there are both myths and challenges in its implementations. In a crowded city like Singapore, many noise sources from construction site and subway track are located very close to the residential and commercial buildings. It was suggested by few researchers that by placing suitable control speakers at the construction site (working principle of ANC), the noise from the construction site could be prevented from propagating to the surrounding buildings. Similarly, for viaduct or subway track, by placing control speakers along the viaduct or track, the noise generated by the passing trains or vehicles could be reduced based on the principle of ANC technique. However, implementation of ANC technique on these noise issues is not easy as all of these noise control problems involve multiple noise sources with complex or transient frequency spectrum in large three-dimensional/open space. Therefore, the main intention of the present paper is to discuss the current state of the art of this topic as well as to examine the potential application and limitation of the ANC technique in mitigating unwanted noise, particularly in large three-dimensional/open space and with cooperation of passive noise barrier.
Mechanical Performances of Transverse Rib Bar During Pull-Out Test
Authors: Wang S. R. , Xiao H. G. , Zou Z. S. , Cao C. , Wang Y. H. , Wang Z. L.
Published: May 2019

To evaluate mechanical performances of the transverse rib bar and reveal anchoring mechanism between the grout and steel bar, a series of pull-out tests were carried out, the numerical simulations and theoretical analysis of grout failure modes were also analyzed. Results show that the grout in front of the transverse rib display wedge-shape damage and the simulation results verify this damage forms. The formula of the effective transverse rib angle, the grout strength and anchorage force were derived based on elastic thick-wall cylinder theory. During the pull-out tests, the radial stress of the grout lagged the tangential stress reaching the ultimate tensile strength with the inner pressure increasing. The anchoring force of the transverse rib bar increases with the increase of the grout strength, and with the increase of the effective transverse rib angle. These conclusions provide the theoretical basis and technical support for the engineering practice.
Programming Structured DNA Assemblies to Probe Biophysical Processes
Authors: Wamhoff Eike-Christian , Banal James L. , Bricker William P. , Shepherd Tyson R. , Parsons Molly F. , Veneziano Rémi , Stone Matthew B. , Jun Hyungmin , Wang Xiao , Bathe Mark
Published: May 2019

Structural DNA nanotechnology is beginning to emerge as a widely accessible research tool to mechanistically study diverse biophysical processes. Enabled by scaffolded DNA origami in which a long single strand of DNA is weaved throughout an entire target nucleic acid assembly to ensure its proper folding, assemblies of nearly any geometric shape can now be programmed in a fully automatic manner to interface with biology on the 1–100-nm scale. Here, we review the major design and synthesis principles that have enabled the fabrication of a specific subclass of scaffolded DNA origami objects called wireframe assemblies. These objects offer unprecedented control over the nanoscale organization of biomolecules, including biomolecular copy numbers, presentation on convex or concave geometries, and internal versus external functionalization, in addition to stability in physiological buffer. To highlight the power and versatility of this synthetic structural biology approach to probing molecular and cellular biophysics, we feature its application to three leading areas of investigation: light harvesting and nanoscale energy transport, RNA structural biology, and immune receptor signaling, with an outlook toward unique mechanistic insight that may be gained in these areas in the coming decade.
Free Speech and Hate Speech
Authors: Howard Jeffrey W.
Published: May 2019

Should hate speech be banned? This article contends that the debate on this question must be disaggregated into discrete analytical stages, lest its participants continue to talk past one another. The first concerns the scope of the moral right to freedom of expression, and whether hate speech falls within the right's protective ambit. If it does, hate speech bans are necessarily unjust. If not, we turn to the second stage, which assesses whether speakers have moral duties to refrain from hate speech. The article canvasses several possible duties from which such a duty could be derived, including duties not to threaten, harass, offend, defame, or incite. If there is a duty to refrain from hate speech, it is yet a further question whether the duty should actually be enforced. This third stage depends on pragmatic concerns involving epistemic fallibility, the abuse of state power, and the benefits of counter-speech over coercion.
A Rare Case of Checkerboard-Like Becker Nevi with a Unique Distribution of Abnormalities
Authors: Wongtada Chanidapa , Asawanonda Pravit , Pongprutthipan Marisa
Published: May 2019

Becker nevus syndrome refers to a rare disorder comprising the typical pigmented lesion and its associated developmental abnormalities. Becker nevus itself is typically localized on the upper trunk, scapular or upper arm unilaterally; however, it can occasionally occur as multiple or bilateral lesions on any parts of the body. In this report, a rare case of multiple Becker nevi arranged in a unique checkerboard-like pattern is presented. More uniquely, the associated abnormalities found in this patient, breast hypoplasia and leg lipodystrophy, seem to be regionally correlated with the nevi. In closing, we would like to raise an easy-to-remember 6B’s mnemonic, which stands for Becker, Breast, Bone, Bowen’s disease, Basal cell carcinoma, and Beta-actin, for the cases of Becker nevus syndrome.
Genetic Analysis in Fetal Skeletal Dysplasias by Trio Whole-Exome Sequencing
Authors: Yang Kai , Shen Ming , Yan Yousheng , Tan Ya , Zhang Jing , Wu Jue , Yang Guangming , Li Shang , Wang Jing , Ren Zhuo , Dong Zhe , Wang Shan , Zhang Manli , Tian Yaping
Published: May 2019

Skeletal dysplasias (SDs) comprise a series of severe congenital disorders that have strong clinical heterogeneity and usually attribute to diverse genetic variations. The pathogenesis of more than half of SDs remains unclear. Additionally, the clinical manifestations of fetal SDs are ambiguous, which poses a big challenge for accurate diagnosis. In this study, eight unrelated families with fetal SD were recruited and subjected to sequential tests including chromosomal karyotyping, chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), and trio whole-exome sequencing (WES). Sanger sequencing and quantitative fluorescence PCR (QF-PCR) were performed as affirmative experiments. In six families, a total of six pathogenic/likely pathogenic variations were identified in four genes including SLC26A2, FGFR3, FLNB, and TMEM38B. These variations caused disorders following autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive inheritance patterns, respectively. The results provided reliable evidence for the subsequent genetic counseling and reproductive options to these families. With its advantage in variation calling and interpreting, trio WES is a promising strategy for the investigation of fetal SDs in cases with normal karyotyping and CMA results. It has considerable prospects to be utilized in prenatal diagnosis.
Do Nonsuicidal Severely Depressed Individuals with Diabetes Profit from Internet-Based Guided Self-Help? Secondary Analyses of a Pragmatic Randomized Trial
Authors: Schlicker Sandra , Weisel Kiona K. , Buntrock Claudia , Berking Matthias , Nobis Stephanie , Lehr Dirk , Baumeister Harald , Snoek Frank J. , Riper Heleen , Ebert David D.
Published: May 2019

Introduction. Diabetes mellitus type 1 and type 2 are linked to higher prevalence and occurrences of depression. Internet-based depression- and diabetes-specific cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT) can be effective in reducing depressive symptom severity and diabetes-related emotional distress. The aim of the study was to test whether disease-specific severity indicators moderate the treatment outcome in a 6-week minimally guided web-based self-help intervention on depression and diabetes (GET.ON Mood Enhancer Diabetes (GET.ON M.E.D.)) and to determine its effectiveness in a nonsuicidal severely depressed subgroup. Methods. Randomized controlled trial- (RCT-) based data (N=253) comparing GET.ON M.E.D. to an online psychoeducation control group was used to test disease-specific severity indicators as predictors/moderators of a treatment outcome. Changes in depressive symptom severity and treatment response were examined in a nonsuicidal severely depressed subgroup (CES−D>40; N=40). Results. Major depressive disorder diagnosis at the baseline (pprf6=0.01), higher levels of depression (Beck Depression Inventory II; pprpo=0.00; pprf6=0.00), and lower HbA1c (pprpo=0.04) predicted changes in depressive symptoms. No severity indicator moderated the treatment outcome. Severely depressed participants in the intervention group showed a significantly greater reduction in depressive symptom severity (dprpo=2.17, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.39-2.96) than the control condition (dprpo=0.92; 95% CI: 0.001-1.83), with a between-group effect size of dprpo=1.05 (95% CI: 0.11-1.98). Treatment response was seen in significantly more participants in the intervention (4/20; 20%) compared to the control group (0/20, 0%; χ2 2N=40=4.44; p<0.02). At the 6-month follow-up, effects were maintained for depressive symptom reduction (dpr6f=0.71; 95% CI: 0.19-1.61) but not treatment response. Conclusion. Disease-specific severity indicators were not related to a differential effectiveness of guided self-help for depression and diabetes. Clinical meaningful effects were observed in nonsuicidal severely depressed individuals, who do not need to be excluded from web-based guided self-help. However, participants should be closely monitored and referred to other treatment modalities in case of nonresponse.
An Unusual Presentation of Insert Dislocation and MCL Rupture in Unicompartmental Knee Replacement with 2 Years Postoperative Results: Does It Functional?
Authors: Asma Ali , Erduran Mehmet , Eymir Musa
Published: May 2019

According to our knowledge, there is no prior article that reports functional results of medial collateral ligament (MCL) primary repair and insert change after MCL rupture and mobile-bearing dislocation as a late complication of unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR). Firstly, 63-year-old woman was treated with UKR due to anteromedial knee osteoarthritis of the right knee joint. 1 year after UKR surgery, she suffered from MCL rupture and mobile-bearing dislocation because of falls while getting on a public bus, and therefore, secondly, she was operated with MCL primary repair and mobile-bearing change and followed up for 2 years. The patient was evaluated regarding functional capacity, pain intensity, range of motion (RoM), and quality of life. Our case showed an improvement in the functional level and the other outcomes (pain intensity and quality of life) at postoperative 2nd year when compared to the preoperative period. The wellbeing of our case in about the postop 2nd year functional capacity and also other outcomes after revision surgery prompted us to continue to this surgery approach in the surgical management of similar cases that may arise thereafter.
Fabrication of Nanoparticle-Stacked 1,1-Diamino-2,2-Dinitroethylene (FOX-7) Microspheres with Increased Thermal Stability
Authors: Zhang Yuanping , Hou Conghua , Jia Xinlei , Wang Jinyu , Tan Yingxin
Published: May 2019

Nanoparticle-stacked 1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethylene (FOX-7) microspheres were successfully prepared by spray-drying, and rod-shaped FOX-7 was obtained by the solvent/nonsolvent method for comparison. The microstructure features of samples were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), and the thermal properties were also investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). From the SEM analysis, the particle size of the rod-shaped FOX-7 is about 10 μm, whereas FOX-7 microspheres having a particle size ranging from 1 to 5 μm are formed by stacking nanoparticles with size of 100-250 nm. The crystal form of the samples prepared by the two methods did not change. The thermal performance test results showed that the rd-shaped FOX-7 had no significant change compared with the raw FOX-7, while the nanoparticle-stacked FOX-7 microspheres had higher thermal stability.
NO Removal from Simulated Diesel Engine Exhaust Gas by Cyclic Scrubbing Using NaClO2 Solution in a Rotating Packed Bed Reactor
Authors: Zhitao Han , Yu Gao , Shaolong Yang , Jingming Dong , Xinxiang Pan , Tian Lan , Liguo Song , Zhijun Yan , Deping Sun , Kaixuan Ning
Published: May 2019

Experiments were conducted to remove NO from simulated flue gas in a rotating packed bed (RPB) reactor with NaClO2 as wet scrubbing oxidant and diesel exhaust gas as carrier gas. The effects of various operating parameters (rotational speed, solution pH, NaClO2 concentration, liquid-gas ratio, and NO and SO2 concentrations) on NO removal performance were investigated preliminarily. The results showed that with the increase of rotational speed, oxidant concentration, and liquid-gas ratio, NO removal efficiency increased obviously. NO removal efficiency increased largely with the decrease of solution pH, and a complete removal of NO could be attained at pH 4. NO concentration imposed little effect on NO removal efficiency while coexisting SO2 in exhaust gas could enhance NOx removal greatly.
Kihito, a Traditional Japanese Kampo Medicine, Improves Cognitive Function in Alzheimer’s Disease Patients
Authors: Watari Hidetoshi , Shimada Yutaka , Matsui Mie , Tohda Chihiro
Published: May 2019

Background and Aims. We previously reported that the administration of traditional Japanese medicines, kihito (Gui-Pi-Tang in Chinese) and kamikihito (Jia-Wei-Gui-Pi-Tang in Chinese), to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) model mice improved memory impairment. There are a few reports that show kihito and kamikihito have a beneficial effect on the cognitive function of AD patients in clinical studies. However, these studies are not comparative and are retrospective studies; thus, more evidence is needed. Therefore, we conducted an open-label, crossover designed clinical trial to investigate the effect of kihito on cognitive function of AD patients. Methods. The inclusion criteria for eligible patients were as follows: (1) imaging diagnosis (magnetic resonance imaging and single-photon emission computed tomography) of AD, (2) a treatment regimen including acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs), and (3) a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score ≥15. The exclusion criteria were as follows: (1) change in ChEI dosage, (2) memantine usage, and (3) MMSE score < 15. To prevent bias in age and baseline cognitive function, patients were divided into two groups: the first group received 2.5 g of kihito extract 3 times/day during the first half of the study (weeks 0-16) and the second group received the same dose of kihito during the second half of the study (weeks 17-32). ChEI dosage did not change during the study period. Patients underwent a cognitive function test during weeks 0, 16, and 32. Cognitive function was evaluated by Japanese versions of the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE-J) and the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS-J) test. Results. Ten patients completed the clinical trial (4 males, 6 females, average age 71.7 years). MMSE-J scores significantly increased during the kihito intake period. RBANS-J test scores had a slight improvement during the kihito intake period compared with the ChEI alone treatment period, but no significant changes were observed. Conclusion. Kihito improves cognitive function in AD patients.
Expression Profiling and Clinical Significance of Plasma MicroRNAs in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Wang Jianqin , Wang Gouqin , Liang Yaojun , Zhou Xiaochun
Published: May 2019

Aims. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) stably and abundantly exist in body fluids and have been considered as novel and noninvasive biomarkers for several diseases. The present study is aimed at investigating the expression profiling and clinical significance of plasma miRNAs in the pathogenesis and progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). Methods. Plasma samples were obtained from 66 DN patients (36 had microalbuminuria and 30 had macroalbuminuria), 36 diabetic patients with normoalbuminuria, and 40 healthy controls. The plasma miRNA profiles were obtained by miRNA low-density array chip and validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. The correlations between the differential expression of plasma miRNAs and clinicopathological parameters were explored. Results. miR-150-5p, miR-155-5p, miR-30e, miR-320e, and miR-3196 were found to be differentially expressed in plasma samples among these three groups: diabetic patients with microalbuminuria, diabetic patients with normoalbuminuria, and healthy controls (P<0.05). The expression levels of miR-150-5p and miR-155-5p in patients with macroalbuminuria were 2.3-fold (P=0.001) and 1.5-fold (P=0.033) higher than patients with microalbuminuria, respectively. However, the expression levels of miR-30e, miR-3196, miR-320, and let-7a-5p were not significantly different between these two groups (P>0.05). Furthermore, plasma miR-150-5p (P=0.016, r = -0.460) and miR-155-5p (P=0.014, r = -0.467) were negatively correlated with the albuminuria excretion rate, while plasma miR-150-5p (P=0.01, r = 0.318) and miR-155-5p (P=0.030, r=0.271) were positively correlated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate. Conclusion. miR-150-5p, miR-155-5p, miR-30e, miR-320e, and miR-3196 are potentially new diagnostic biomarkers for early DN. miR-150-5p and miR-155-5p may be involved in the pathogenesis and progression of DN. Further research is required to verify these findings and clarify the specific molecular mechanisms.
Acute Urinary Retention in the Male Child from Urethral Calculi: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Mbouché L. O. , Andzé G. Ondobo , Makon A. S. Nwaha , Bob D. Nyanit , Tamufor E. Njuma , Amenglé A. L. , Tambo F. F. Mouafo , Mure P. Y. , Mikandé J. Zé , Angwafo F. F.
Published: May 2019

Urinary stones are uncommon in children. Urethral location of calculi can give rise to various clinical manifestations. We report three cases of urethral lithiasis presenting with acute urinary retention in children.
Metal-Organic Framework MIL-101: Synthesis and Photocatalytic Degradation of Remazol Black B Dye
Authors: Du Pham Dinh , Thanh Huynh Thi Minh , To Thuy Chau , Thang Ho Sy , Tinh Mai Xuan , Tuyen Tran Ngoc , Hoa Tran Thai , Khieu Dinh Quang
Published: May 2019

In the present paper, the synthesis of metal-organic framework MIL-101 and its application in the photocatalytic degradation of Remazol Black B (RBB) dye have been demonstrated. The obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms at 77 K. It was found that MIL-101 synthesized under optimal conditions exhibited high crystallinity and specific surface area (3360 m2·g-1). The obtained MIL-101 possessed high stability in water for 14 days and several solvents (benzene, ethanol, and water at boiling temperature). Its catalytic activities were evaluated by measuring the degradation of RBB in an aqueous solution under UV radiation. The findings show that MIL-101 was a heterogeneous photocatalyst in the degradation reaction of RBB. The mechanism of photocatalysis was considered to be achieved by the electron transfer from photoexcited organic ligands to metallic clusters in MIL-101. The kinetics of photocatalytic degradation reaction were analyzed by using the initial rate method and Langmuir-Hinshelwood model. The MIL-101 photocatalyst exhibited excellent catalytic recyclability and stability and can be a potential catalyst for the treatment of organic pollutants in aqueous solutions.
CUPRAC Voltammetric Determination of Antioxidant Capacity in Tea Samples by Using Screen-Printed Microelectrodes
Authors: Trofin Alina Elena , Trincă Lucia Carmen , Ungureanu Elena , Ariton Adina Mirela
Published: May 2019

Measurement of antioxidant capacity represents an analytical major challenge in terms of accuracy, efficiency, rapid response, or low cost of detection methods. Quantification of antioxidant capacity of food samples using disposable screen‐printed microelectrodes (SPMEs) was based on cyclic voltammetry versus open-circuit potential (CV vs OCP) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) as compared with spectrophotometric measurement of the CUPRAC reaction with 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid (trolox). The SPMEs are organic‐resistant electrodes and thus compatible with food samples and organic solvents used to dissolve trolox. A micropipette was used to release a drop of 50 μL sample on the spotted surface of the SPME sensor/working electrode that was time programmed to function according to the working protocol. The SPME response was linearly correlated with trolox content. This preliminary demonstration was focused on the analysis of tea infusions, due to the simplicity and reproducibility of the samples’ preparations involved. Analytical results of the antioxidant capacity (expressed as mol·L−1 trolox equivalents) of the tea samples showed a good agreement in the case of spectrophotometry and differential pulse voltammetry (R2 > 0.998). DPV with SPME based on CUPRAC reactions was proven to be a promising approach for the characterization of antioxidant capacity of tea samples with rapid response, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity of operation.
The Metabolic Basis of Kidney Cancer
Authors: Linehan W. Marston , Schmidt Laura S. , Crooks Daniel R. , Wei Darmood , Srinivasan Ramaprasad , Lang Martin , Ricketts Christopher J.
Published: May 2019

Kidney cancer is not a single disease but represents several distinct types of cancer that have defining histologies and genetic alterations and that follow different clinical courses and have different responses to therapy. Mutation of genes associated with kidney cancer, such as VHL, FLCN, TFE3, FH, or SDHB, dysregulates the tumor's responses to changes in oxygen, iron, nutrient, or energy levels. The identification of these varying genetic bases of kidney cancer has increased our understanding of the biology of this cancer, allowing the development of targeted therapies and the appreciation that it is a cancer driven by metabolic alterations.

Significance:

Kidney cancer is a complex disease composed of different types of cancer that present with different histologies, clinical courses, genetic changes, and responses to therapy. This review describes the known genetic changes within kidney cancer, how they alter tumor metabolism, and how these metabolic changes can be therapeutically targeted.
A Gene Signature Predicting Natural Killer Cell Infiltration and Improved Survival in Melanoma Patients
Authors: Cursons Joseph , Souza-Fonseca-Guimaraes Fernando , Foroutan Momeneh , Anderson Ashley , Hollande Frédéric , Hediyeh-Zadeh Soroor , Behren Andreas , Huntington Nicholas D. , Davis Melissa J.
Published: May 2019

Natural killer (NK) cell activity is essential for initiating antitumor responses and may be linked to immunotherapy success. NK cells and other innate immune components could be exploitable for cancer treatment, which drives the need for tools and methods that identify therapeutic avenues. Here, we extend our gene-set scoring method singscore to investigate NK cell infiltration by applying RNA-seq analysis to samples from bulk tumors. Computational methods have been developed for the deconvolution of immune cell types within solid tumors. We have taken the NK cell gene signatures from several such tools, then curated the gene list using a comparative analysis of tumors and immune cell types. Using a gene-set scoring method to investigate RNA-seq data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), we show that patients with metastatic cutaneous melanoma have an improved survival rate if their tumor shows evidence of NK cell infiltration. Furthermore, these survival effects are enhanced in tumors that show higher expression of genes that encode NK cell stimuli such as the cytokine IL15. Using this signature, we then examine transcriptomic data to identify tumor and stromal components that may influence the penetrance of NK cells into solid tumors. Our results provide evidence that NK cells play a role in the regulation of human tumors and highlight potential survival effects associated with increased NK cell activity. Our computational analysis identifies putative gene targets that may be of therapeutic value for boosting NK cell antitumor immunity.
The Impact of High-Dose Glucocorticoids on the Outcome of Immune-Checkpoint Inhibitor–Related Thyroid Disorders
Authors: Ma Chanjuan , Hodi F. Stephen , Giobbie-Hurder Anita , Wang Xiaocheng , Zhou Jing , Zhang Amy , Zhou Ying , Mao Fei , Angell Trevor E. , Andrews Chelsea P. , Hu Jiani , Barroso-Sousa Romualdo , Kaiser Ursula B. , Tolaney Sara M. , Min Le
Published: May 2019

Thyroid disorders have emerged as one of the most common immune-related adverse events (irAE), yet optimum management and biomarkers to predict vulnerable individuals remain to be explored. High-dose glucocorticoid (HDG) therapy is routinely recommended for irAEs. However, systematic analysis of the impact of glucocorticoid therapy on the outcome of immune-checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)–induced thyroid disorders is lacking. We analyzed 151 patients with or without ICI-related thyroid disorders. We divided the patients with ICI-related thyroid disorders into two subgroups: those with and without HDG treatment. Our results showed no significant differences between HDG and no HDG groups in terms of the median duration of thyrotoxicosis: 28 (range, 7–85) and 42 (range, 14–273) days, the median time to conversion from thyrotoxicosis to hypothyroidism: 39 days (range, 14–169) and 42 days (range, 14–315) days, the median time to onset of hypothyroidism: 63 (range, 21–190) and 63 (range, 14–489) days, and the median maintenance dose of levothyroxine: 1.5 (range, 0.4–2.3) μg/kg/day, and 1.3 (range, 0.3–2.5) μg/kg/day. The median pretreatment TSH was 2.3 (range, 0.3–5.2) mIU/L and 1.7 (range, 0.5–4.5) mIU/L in patients with and without ICI-related thyroid disorders, respectively. Baseline TSH was significantly higher in patients who developed ICI-related thyroid disorders (P = 0.05). Subgroup analysis revealed significantly higher baseline TSH in male but not in female patients with ICI-induced thyroid dysfunction. Our results show that HDG treatment did not improve the outcome of ICI-related thyroid disorders.
Does Efficacy Equal Lasting Impact? A Study of Intervention Short Term Gains, Impact on Diagnostic Status, and Association with Background Variables
Authors: Elin Thordardottir  , Rioux Eve Julie
Published: May 2019

Objective: This article examines the efficacy of language intervention services for monolingual and immigrant children in a public clinic in Montreal, Canada. Intervention is provided in French for a preset number of sessions regardless of intervention needs. The study assessed immediate gains after intervention, their maintenance over 2 months, and their effect on diagnostic status at both time points. Methods: Participants included 15 children (57.7 months SD 7.8) diagnosed with developmental language disorder: 3 monolinguals and 12 bilingual immigrants. Intervention targeted vocabulary and syntax. Assessment of intervention targets and standardized testing was conducted before, after, and 2 months after treatment. Diagnostic status and severity level were assessed at each time point. Results: Intervention was highly efficacious with large effect sizes for intervention targets. However, for diagnostic status, efficacy was more questionable. Seven children improved their diagnostic status from pre- to posttest; but many dropped back at maintenance point. For 3 children, all test time showed scores within the non-impaired range, indicating misdiagnosis or change in status while waiting for treatment. Amount of pain was not correlated with any background variable. Conclusions: Results suggest that intervention could be more efficacious by giving more therapy sessions and conducting evaluation and treatment closer in time.
Evaluating Personal Stroke Narratives from Bilingual Greek-English Immigrants with Aphasia
Authors: Kambanaros Maria
Published: May 2019

Objective: For people with aphasia (PWA) and their significant others, narratives are intricately intertwined with quality of life, culture, and social participation. This paper reports stories told by bilingual people with aphasia (bPWA), describing the events or consequences of a stroke on their lives. Patients and Methods: Six participants with chronic mild-moderate anomia (mean age 70 years) spontaneously produced a narrative recounting their personal experience of stroke in their native language (Greek) and in their second language (English). All bPWA had learned English in early adulthood upon migration from Greece to Australia, not through formal teaching but on the job (e.g., in the factory). The bPWA had lived in Australia for 46 years (average) and were less than 4 years post-stroke. Results: Narratives in the two languages underwent quantitative (number of propositions, noun/verb tokens) and qualitative analyses (ratings of coherence, ratings of clarity). Most bPWA produced coherent “tellable” stories despite disruptions in language because of aphasia. Overall, stories were better told (length, complexity of content, temporal-causal sequencing, reference) in Greek – their native language. Conclusion: The results have implications for policy-makers providing health and welfare services to ageing immigrant populations. The findings are also relevant to other countries that have large immigrant populations of stroke survivors.
A Comparative Study of Fiducial-Based and Fiducial-Less Registration Utilizing the O-Arm
Authors: Toms Jamie , Martin Sheyne , Sima Adam P. , Chung Augustine , Docef Alen , Holloway Kathryn L.
Published: May 2019

Background: Frameless stereotactic surgery utilizing fiducial-based (FB) registration is an established tool in the armamentarium of deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgeons. Fiducial-less (FL) registration via intraoperative CT, such as the O-arm, has been routinely used in spine surgery, but its accuracy for DBS surgery has not been studied in a clinical setting. Objective: We undertook a study to analyze the accuracy of the FL technique in DBS surgery and compare it to the FB method. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 97 patients underwent DBS surgery using the NexFrame and the O-arm registration stereotactic system. Patients underwent FB (n = 50) registration from 2015 to 2016 and FL (n = 47) O-arm registration from 2016 to 2017. Results: The radial errors (RE) and vector/euclidean errors of FB and FL registration were not significantly different. There was no difference in additional passes between methods, but there was an increase in the number of RE ≥2.5 mm in the FL method. Conclusion: Although there was no statistically significant difference in RE or the need for additional passes, the increased number of errors ≥2.5 mm with the FL method (17 vs. 4% in FB) indicates the need for further study. We concluded that O-arm images of the implants should be utilized to assess and correct for this error.
The Use of Indomethacin with Complete Amniotic Fluid Replacement and Classic Hysterotomy for the Reduction of Perinatal Complications of Intrauterine Myelomeningocele Repair
Authors: Zamłyński Mateusz , Zamłyński Jacek , Horzelska Ewa , Maruniak-Chudek Iwona , Bablok Rafał , Szukiewicz Dariusz , Herman-Sucharska Izabela , Kluczewska Ewa , Olejek Anita
Published: May 2019

Objective: This study presented outcomes of classical hysterotomy with modified antiprostaglandin therapy for intrauterine repair of foetal myelomeningocele (fMMC) performed in a single perinatal centre. Study Design: Forty-nine pregnant women diagnosed with fMMC underwent classic hysterotomy with anti-prostaglandin management, complete amniotic fluid replacement and high dose indomethacin application. Results: The average gestational age (GA) at delivery was 34.4 ± 3.4 weeks, with no births before 30 weeks GA. There were 2 foetal deaths. Complete reversal of hindbrain herniation (HH), assessed in magnetic resonance imaging at 30–31 weeks GA was found in 72% of foetuses (mostly with HH grade I prior to fMMC repair). Our protocol resulted in rare use of magnesium sulphate (6%), low incidence of chorioamniotic membrane separation – chorioamniotic membrane separation (6%), preterm premature rupture of membranes – preterm premature rupture of membranes (pPROM; 15%) and preterm labour – preterm labour (PTL; 17%). The postoperative wound continuity of the uterus was usually stable (in 72% of patients), with low frequency of scar thinning (23%). Conclusion: Our protocol results in rare use of tocolytics, and the low occurrences of CMS, pPROM and PTL in relation to other study cohorts: Management of Myelomeningocele Study, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Vanderbilt University Medical Centre.