bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efektivitas Program Bantuan Tunai Bersyarat Mengatasi Kemiskinan dan Kelaparan
Authors: Mursyidah Lailul
Published: January 2020

This research aims to analyze the effectiveness of conditional cash transfer programs in reducing poverty and hunger. This qualitative descriptive research is located in Kabupaten Temanggung, Central Java. Data obtained from interviews, observation and documentation. The selection of informants was done by purposive sampling technique. Informants in this research is the head of social assistance of Dinas Sosial Kabupaten Temanggung as the head of UPPKH Kabupaten Temanggung. Data analysis technique using Miles & Huberman’s interactive model. The results of this research indicate that after 2 years implementation of Program Keluarga Harapan (PKH) as conditional cash transfer program in Kabupaten Temanggung,  the output has not been achieved. Seen from before and after implementation of PKH, there is no different in nutrition status of infants and toddlers as well as the family welfare. The progress is almost the same, still in a constant state before and after PKH implemented. The condition show that the conditional cash transfer program in Kabupaten Temanggung has not been effective in eradicate poverty and hunger.
Pengaturan Alat Peraga Kampanye Dalam Pelaksanaan Pemilihan Kepala Daerah
Authors: Anam Choirul
Published: January 2020

This study aims to explain the mechanism for electing governors and deputy governors, regents and deputy regents as well as mayors and deputy mayors who are directly elected by the people, through what we are familiar with direct regional head elections and to find out the authority of the general election commission (KPU ) in conducting the procure- ment, distribution and installation of campaign props (APK.) The method used in this research is legal research which is to find the rule of law, legal principles, and legal doc- trines in order to answer the legal issues encountered. In this study shows that given the authority of political parties or candidate pairs to hold campaign props a number of prob- lems arise, including the difficulty for the KPU to control or control campaign props held by political parties or candidate pairs starting from the number, completion time, until the design
Nuevos datos sobre la serie de ángeles del monasterio de san José y San Roque de Aguilar de la Frontera (Córdoba)
Authors: Ávila Vivar Mario
Published: January 2020

El acceso a nuevos textos y nuevas imágenes, así como la recuperación reciente de nombres apócrifos rotulados en los cuadros de la serie de Aguilar de la Frontera (Córdoba), acreditan que el donante de la serie fue José Fernández de Toro, y no Pedro de Toro y Sotomayor, como se creía anteriormente; además de confirmar la hipótesis de que esta serie pertenece a la tipología de ángeles apócrifos. En el artículo se analiza la personalidad del donante de la serie, y se ratifica el origen español, el significado y los vínculos con los virreinatos americanos de los ángeles apócrifos.
Reflexões preliminares sobre a canção no vestibular: o álbum Tropicália nas provas da ufrgs
Authors: Nishida Gustavo , Da Silveira Ana Paula Pinheiro , Sierakowski Ana Paula de Castro
Published: January 2020

É inegável que, a partir da publicação dos Parâmetros Curriculares Nacionais (BRASIL, 1997), muitas pesquisas no âmbito da Linguística Aplicada, da Linguística do Discurso e da Linguística Textual direcionaram o seu olhar sobre o trabalho com gêneros discursivos, objeto de estudo da Língua Portuguesa, o que pode ser observado no fato de algumas universidades incluírem, dentre os conteúdos a serem avaliados nos exames vestibulares, aqueles referentes aos álbuns musicais. Partindo da concepção de que o gênero canção é multimodal e envolve a mobilização de múltiplas semioses para a construção de sentidos, este trabalho assume como objetivo analisar como o álbum Tropicália foi abordado nos exames vestibulares de 2015, 2016 e 2017 da UFRGS, a fim de verificar se, na elaboração das questões, foi considerada a integração de elementos musicais e verbais. A partir dessa reflexão inicial, o estudo propõe-se a analisar as potencialidades significativas da canção “Enquanto seu lobo não vem”.
Ressignificar o espaço – estratégias discursivas na cultura afro-americana contemporânea
Authors: Oliveira Luiza Monteiro de Barros , Teixeira Lucia
Published: January 2020

Ainda pouco estudada, a aspectualização do espaço é um elemento de análise previsto dentro da teoria semiótica francesa que pode ser de grande valia ao analista que busca compreender a construção de sentido em textos audiovisuais. O presente artigo busca fazer avançar a pesquisa sobre como a aspectualização espacial opera, por meio da análise de duas obras audiovisuais contemporâneas que compartilham semelhança temática: os videoclipes de Apes**t, de The Carters (como assinam a cantora Beyoncé e o rapper Jay-Z em um projeto musical feito em dupla) e This is America, de Childish Gambino (rapper e ator também conhecido como Donald Glover). Apesar de ambos serem produzidos por artistas norte-americanos que tratam da questão racial em seus discursos, os dois textos audiovisuais empregam estratégias distintas em sua enunciação, que o presente artigo busca detalhar e compreender.
Jornal nacional 50 anos – o diálogo com a revolução cultural e tecnológica
Authors: Borges Marilurdes Cruz , Ludovice Camila de Araújo Beraldo
Published: January 2020

Este trabalho tem como objetivo analisar a evolução, transformação e ressignificação do Jornal Nacional ao longo de seus 50 anos no ar. Justifica-se tal escolha de objeto de pesquisa por se tratar do primeiro telejornal brasileiro transmitido ao vivo em rede nacional e ser o de maior repercussão jornalística. As análises serão embasadas pelas reflexões bakhtinianas no que se refere aos conceitos de relações dialógicas e ato responsável numa relação cronotópica. Foi possível verificar que o Jornal Nacional reflete e refrata a revolução cultural e tecnológica por meio do diálogo com seus interlocutores e participa ativa e responsivamente de cada momento histórico e cultural da sociedade brasileira.
A pedagogia crítico-complexa e a análise da situação-alvo: investigando preconceitos e privilégios na academia
Authors: Vieira Bruna Gabriela Augusto Marçal
Published: January 2020

A linguagem, enquanto um sistema adaptativo complexo, compreende dimensões que extrapolam o nível linguístico e textual. O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar as potencialidades dos fundamentos teórico-metodológicos da pedagogia crítico-complexa em estruturar, significar e facilitar a professores(as) de escrita acadêmica a investigação de contextos particulares de ensino, inclusive de questões abstratas, como “ideologia” – abordada nesta pesquisa – que perpassam os discursos a serem trabalhados nas aulas. Uma investigação em três etapas, compreendendo análise de currículo, questionário e entrevistas, foi conduzida com cientistas da computação brasileiros com trabalhos publicados em periódicos com alto fator de impacto na área, a fim de identificar fatores contextuais que pudessem influenciar o aceite de artigos de brasileiros pelos periódicos. Os resultados sugerem a existência de preconceitos e privilégios que podem interferir no processo de publicação acadêmica em ciência da computação. Informações como essas evidenciam a necessidade de abordar ideologia e relações de poder para o desenvolvimento do letramento acadêmico de alunos(as), visto que elas, assim como questões epistemológicas, textuais e linguísticas, regulam a produção e a circulação do conhecimento na academia. Uma vez conscientes sobre o funcionamento de sua comunidade, os(as) estudantes podem refletir e trabalhar por mudanças que promovam práticas mais justas a todos.
Enunciação e práticas educativas digitais: um estudo da multiplataforma Hora do Enem
Authors: Câmara Naiá Sadi
Published: January 2020

O objetivo deste trabalho é apresentar os resultados de um estudo acerca das modificações que as tecnologias de linguagens imprimem nas práticas educativas realizadas em espaços digitais, por meio da análise dos procedimentos enunciativos de instauração da relação sujeito e objetos de aprendizagens em plataformas educativas digitais. Partimos do pressuposto de que essas plataformas configuram práticas educativas predominantemente fundamentadas pelos eixos da dinamicidade, da mistura e da diversidade de gêneros e tipos textuais, pelos hibridismos das práticas escolares e das práticas digitais, e pela convergência midiática e multimodal, em que predomina a modalidade audiovisual. Desse ponto de vista, investigamos a plataforma educativa Hora do Enem com base na proposta teórico-metodológica dos Letramentos transmídia. As análises identificaram que a transmidialidade, a mobilidade, as conexões em redes e a ubiquidade afetam a relação dos sujeitos com o processo de ensino e aprendizagem, sobretudo em sua relação tempo/espaço, imprimindo uma autonomia relativa dos percursos de aprendizagens. A práxis enunciativa identificada configura práticas educativas muito semelhantes às práticas educativas formais.
Physicochemical Aspects of Microemulsion Flooding
Authors: Healy Robert N. , Reed Ronald L.
Published: January 2020

Whenever water, an oil and a surfactant equilibrate at concentrations of surfactant in excess of critical micelle concentrations, one or more microemulsions form. In view of this, all surfactant flooding processes may involve microemulsions in situ.

Ternary diagrams have been constructed for three specific microemulsion systems showing the effects of salinity and cosurfactant on phase behavior, viscosity, resistivity, optical birefringence and interfacial tension. Using these data, micellar structure maps were prepared for the single phase region. In this connection, Winsor's concept of intermicellar equilibrium was found consistent with microemulsion systems of interest for tertiary oil recovery.

Experimental techniques are described for minimizing extent of the multiphase region and measuring low interfacial tensions that obtain there.

INTRODUCTION

General Considerations

It is sometimes difficult to sort out the multiplicity of terminology concerning various kinds of micellar solutions and the structural states in which they. exist. For example, Schulman introduced the term micro emulsion. Winsor2 objects on the grounds that all emulsions are unstable and a microemulsion must be some kind of an emulsion. Tosch, et al.3 use the phrase "micelle-containing solutions" whereas Shinoda and Kunieda4 prefer "swollen micellar solution." Nevertheless, the term microemulsion is convenient, is in common use, and it is only necessary to understand precisely what is meant by the term.
Sun protection education for adolescents: A feasibility study of a wait-list controlled trial of an intervention involving a presentation, action planning, and SMS messages and using objective measurement of sun exposure
Authors: Hubbard Gill , Cherrie John , Gray Jonathan , Kyle Richard G , Nioi Amanda , Wendelboe-Nelson Charlotte , Cowie Hilary , Dombrowski Stephan
Published: January 2020

Background People increase their risk of melanoma unless they are protected from the harmful effects of sun exposure during childhood and adolescence. We aimed to assess the feasibility of a three-component sun protection intervention- presentation, action planning, and SMS messages - and trial parameters. Methods This feasibility wait-list trial was conducted in the United Kingdom in 2018. Students aged 13-15 years were eligible. Feasibility outcomes were collected for recruitment rates; data availability rates for objective measurements of melanin and erythema using a Mexameter and self-reported sunburn occurrences, severity and body location, tanning, sun protection behaviours and Skin Self-Examination (SSE) collected before (baseline) and after the school summer holidays (follow-up); intervention reach, adherence, perceived impact and acceptability. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics; qualitative data were analysed thematically. Results Five out of eight schools expressing an interest in participating with four allocated to act as intervention and one control. Four parents/carers opted their child out of the study. 487 out of 724 students on the school register consented to the study at baseline (67%). 385 were in intervention group schools. Objective skin measurements were available for 255 (66%) of the intervention group at baseline and 237 (61%) of the group at follow up. Melanin increased; erythema decreased. Complete self-report data were available for 247 (64%) students in the intervention group. The number of students on the school register who attended the presentation and given the booklet was 379 (98%) and gave their mobile phone number was 155 (40%). No intervention component was perceived as more impactful on sun protection behaviours. Adolescents did not see the relevance of sun protection in the UK or for their age group. Conclusions This is the first study to use a Mexameter to measure skin colour in adolescents. Erythema (visible redness) lasts no more than three days and its measurement before and after a six week summer holiday may not yield relevant or meaningful data. A major challenge is that adolescents do not see the relevance of sun protection and SSE.
“It means so much for me, to have a choice.” First person perspectives on medication free treatment in mental health care: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Oedegaard Christine Henriksen , Davidson Larry , Stige Brynjulf , Veseth Marius , Blindheim Anne , Garvik Linda , Sørensen Jan-Magne Tordenhjerte , Søraa Øystein , Engebretsen Ingunn Marie Stadskleiv
Published: January 2020

Background: In 2016, Western Norway Regional Health Authority started to integrate more evidence-based psychosocial interventions into existing mental health care, emphasizing the right for persons with psychosis to choose medication-free treatment. This change emerged from the debate on the use of anti-psychotic medication regarding effectiveness and adverse effects. Aspects beyond symptom reduction, like interpersonal relationships, increased understanding of one’s own pattern of suffering, hope and motivation, are all considered important for the personal recovery process. Methods: This study explores if these aspects were present in the users’ descriptions of their recovery processes within the medication free treatment program in Bergen, Western Norway. We interviewed ten patients diagnosed with psychosis eligible for medication free services about their treatment experiences. Data were analyzed using Attride Sterling’s thematic network approach. Results: Findings show a global theme relating to personal recovery processes facilitated by more psychosocial treatment options, with three organizing sub-themes: Interpersonal relationships between patient and therapist; the patient’s understanding of personal patterns of suffering; personal motivation for self-agency in the recovery process. Informants described an improved relationship with therapists compared to previous experiences. Implementing more evidence-based psychosocial interventions integrated into existing mental health services facilitate learning experiences regarding the choice of treatment, in particular discontinuation of medication, and appears in this study to support increased self-agency and motivation for the informants in their personal recovery process.Conclusion: Health care in Norway is perhaps one step closer to optimizing the care for people with psychosis, allowing more choice and in this improving the dialogue and hence the interpersonal relationship between the patient and the therapist. Personal patterns of suffering are allowed to be explored within a system aiming to support and to have a higher level of acceptance of discontinuation of medication. This develops the need for personal agency in the treatment regimen, with more focus on personal coping strategies, and more personal responsibility for the recovery process.
C/EBP-β and SIRT1 regulate IL-18 expression in the proliferative phase endometrium of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Authors: Long Xiaoyu , Wang Honghao , Zhu Xiaohui , Li Rong , Author) Yan Yang(New Corresponding , Author) Jie Qiao(Former Corresponding
Published: January 2020

Background：Previous studies have shown that patients with polycystic ovary syndrome present with low-grade chronic inflammation. Our previous studies have confirmed that IL-18 is highly expressed in the serum and endometrium of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. However, the mechanism of IL-18 elevation remains unclear. Therefore, this study aims to explore the signaling pathways that lead to the up-regulation of IL-18 in endometrium of PCOS patients. We predicted that C/EBP-β might be a transcription factor of IL-18 by using TF-Search tool, and deacetylase SIRT1 might be involved in its regulation. Method：SIRT1 and C/EBP-β in proliferative endometrium of PCOS patients and control group by immunohistochemical method.The expression was localized. The genes and proteins of SIRT1 and C/EBP-β in endometrium of PCOS and control group were detected by real-time quantitative PCR and Western Blot respectively. The interaction between C/EBP-β and IL-18 was verified by double luciferase assay. Result(s): The gene and protein levels of SIRT1 and C/EBP-β in proliferative endometrium of PCOS patients were significantly higher than those of the control group. Immunohistochemical experiments confirmed that SIRT1 was mainly expressed in endometrial nucleus, while C/EBP-β was mainly expressed in endometrial nucleus and cytoplasm. The interaction between C/EBP-β and IL-18 was confirmed by double luciferase assay. Conclusion: SIRT1 and C/EBP-β are highly expressed in endometrium of PCOS patients, and may play a role in the regulation of IL-18.
Insights on bio-degumming of kenaf bast based on metagenomic and proteomics
Authors: Duan Shengwen , Cheng Lifeng , Feng Xiangyuan , Yang Qi , Liu Zhiyuan , Zheng Ke , Peng Yuande
Published: January 2020

Background: Microbes play important roles in kanef-degumming. This study aims at identifying the key candidate microbes and proteins responsible for the degumming of kenaf bast (Hibiscus cannabinus). Kenaf bast was cut into pieces and immersed into microbia fermentation liquid collected from different sites. Fermentation liquid samples were collected at 0, 40, 110 and 150 h and then subjected to the 16S/18S rRNA sequencing analysis and isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) analysis. The microbial (bacterial and fungal) diversity and the differentially expressed proteins/peptides (DEPs) were identified.Results: With the prolonged degumming time, the weight loss rate increased, the bacterial diversity was decreased. [Weeksellaceae], Enterobacteriaceae and Moraxellaceae were rapidly increased at 0~40 h, and then decreased and were gradually replaced by Bacteroidaceae from 40 h to 150 h. Similarly, Chryseobacterium and Dysgonomonas were gradually increased at 0~110 h and then decreased; Acinetobacter and Lactococcus were increased at 0~40 h, followed by decrease. Bacteroides was the dominant genus at 150 h. Sequencing 18S rRNA-seq showed the gradually decreased Wallemia hederae and increased Codosiga hollandica during degumming. iTRAQ data analysis showed Rds1, and pyruvate kinase I was decreased and increased in the kanef-degumming, respectively. Other DEPs of ferredoxin I, superoxide dismutase and aconitatehydratase were identified to be related to the Glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism (ko00630).Conclusions: Bacteria including Chryseobacterium, Dysgonomonas, Acinetobacter, Lactococcus and Bacteroidesand fungi like Wallemia hederae and Codosiga hollandica are key candidate microbes for kanef degumming.
Variation in the response of bovine alveolar lavage cells to diverse species of probiotic bacteria.
Authors: Eicher Susan D. , Chitko-McKown Carol , Bryan Keith A.
Published: January 2020

Objective Probiotics are fed to improve enteric health, and they may also affect respiratory immunity through their exposure to the upper respiratory tract upon ingestion. However, their effect on the respiratory system is not known. Our aim was to determine how probiotics affect functions and markers of bronchoalveolar lung lavage cells (BAL) isolated from lungs of calves at slaughter. Results Treatments consisted of ten probiotic species and one control treatment. Probiotics and BAL were incubated 1:1 for 2 h at 37° C and 5% CO2. The cell surface markers measured included CD14, CD205, and CD18, and E. coli bioparticles were used to measure phagocytosis and oxidative burst. Differences were considered significant at P ≤ 0.05 and were noted for percent cells fluorescing and mean fluorescence intensity for CD14 and CD205. Additionally, oxidative burst was different as measured by both percentage of cells fluorescing and mean fluorescence intensity, and phagocytosis differed among species as measured by mean fluorescence intensity. Overall, probiotic species differed in their ability to suppress or increase leukocyte function showing that probiotic bacteria differentially modulate BAL.
Functional study of early intervention for degenerative retinopathy through hydrogel sustained release system of rhEPO
Authors: Zhang Zhimeng , Dai Hehua , Li Ruyi , Li Yuyu , Li Genlin
Published: January 2020

Background

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is the most common cause of blindness in retinal disease. Long-lasting ocular administration is an effective therapy to delay the progression of RP. And hydrogel sustained release system may be an available and stable drug carrier in the treatment of RP.

Method

Hydrogel sustained release system was constructed as a drug carrier of recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO). We administered retinal degenerative (rd) mice (Pdeb rd1 / Pdeb rd1 ) via subconjunctival or retrobulbar injection at postnatal 2 weeks (PN-2w), examined the mice and tested the factors of retina at two weeks after injection. Electroretinogram (ERG) was used to examine retinal function at PN-4w, western blot and q-PCR were used to test the expression of Bax, Bcl-2, iNOS and VEGFa of retina.

Result

Photoreceptor apoptosis were alleviated in all rhEPO administrated groups. The retinal blood supply was improved in injection groups. Compared with placebo and blank control groups, rhEPO treatment could enhance the retinal function and delay the progression of disease. Although there was no significant difference between rhEPO hydrogel and rhEPO treated group, photoreceptor apoptosis in rhEPO hydrogel group was less than that in rhEPO group, and the retinal function was better in rhEPO hydrogel group. Moreover, different routes of administration might have little effect on treatment in this research.

Conclusion

Early intervention can effectively control the progression of the disease. Anti-apoptosis,neuroprotection and erythropoietin of rhEPO could be useful in the treatment of RP. Hydrogel as a long-lasting drug sustained release system was stable and available, and might become a potential drug carrier in the future.
The relationship of plasma renin , angiotensin , and aldosterone levels to blood pressure variability and target organ damage in children with essential hypertension
Authors: Liu Yang , Lin Yao , Zhang Ming-Ming , Zheng Tong , Li Xiao-Hui , Liu Yan-Yan , Zhao Jing , Shi Lin
Published: January 2020

Background To investigate the relationships of plasma renin, angiotensin, and aldosterone levels to blood pressure variability and target organ damage in children with essential hypertension. Methods A case-control study was conducted on 132 children diagnosed with essential hypertension(103 males and 29 females with the mean age of 11.8 ± 2.4 years). The plasma RAAS levels were measured using the enhanced chemiluminescence method, the ambulatory blood pressure was monitored for 24 h, and then the average real variability (ARV) was calculated. Data on indicators were used for assessing cardiac and renal damages. The correlations of plasma renin, angiotensin, and aldosterone (RAAS) levels to blood pressure variability (BPV) and target organ damage (TOD) were studied. A comparison between the groups was conducted using SPSS 20． Results Among the 132 children, 55 cases had target organ damage. The 24-h ARV and the daytime ARV of the systolic blood pressure of the high angiotensin II (AT II) group was significantly higher than that of the normal AT II group (t = 2.175, P = 0.031; t = 2.672, P = 0.009). Plasma AT II and aldosterone levels were significantly associated with the left ventricular mass index (r = 0.329, P= 0.0001; r = 0.175, P = 0.045). Linear regression analysis showed that AT II [ β± s.e.= 0.025±0.006, 95% CI ( 0.013–0.038), P = 0.0001] and aldosterone [ β± s.e.= 0.021±0.007, 95% CI( 0.008–0.034), P = 0.002] were risk factors for LVH. Conclusions The AT II level in children with essential hypertension affected the variability of the 24-h and the daytime SBP. Plasma AT II and aldosterone levels were associated with cardiac damage. Results from this study indicated that AT II and aldosterone are risk factors for LVH in childhood hypertension and are of great significance for improving the clinical prognosis of pediatric patients with hypertension. Keywords Blood pressure monitoring · Child · Hypertension · Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system
Genetic mapping and genomic selection for maize stalk strength
Authors: Author) Xiaogang Liu(Former Corresponding , Hu Xiaojiao , Li Kun , Liu Zhifang , Wu Yujin , Author) Hongwu Wang(New Corresponding , Huang Changling
Published: January 2020

Background Maize is one of the most important staple crops and is widely grown throughout the world. Stalk lodging can cause enormous yield losses in maize production. However, rind penetrometer resistance (RPR), which is recognized as a reliable measurement to evaluate stalk strength, has been shown to be efficient and useful for improving stalk lodging-resistance. Linkage mapping is an acknowledged approach for exploring the genetic architecture of target traits. In addition, genomic selection (GS) using whole genome markers enhances selection efficiency for genetically complex traits. In the present study, two recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations were utilized to dissect the genetic basis of RPR, which was evaluated in seven growth stages. Results The optimal stages to measure stalk strength are the silking phase and stages after silking. A total of 66 and 45 quantitative trait loci (QTL) were identified in each RIL population. Several potential candidate genes were predicted according to the maize gene annotation database and were closely associated with the biosynthesis of cell wall components. Moreover, analysis of gene ontology (GO) enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway further indicated that genes related to cell wall formation were involved in the determination of RPR. In addition, a multivariate model of genomic selection efficiently improved the prediction accuracy relative to a univariate model and a model considering RPR-relevant loci as fixed effects. Conclusions The genetic architecture of RPR is highly genetically complex. Multiple minor effect QTL are jointly involved in controlling phenotypic variation in RPR. Several pleiotropic QTL identified in multiple stages may contain reliable genes and can be used to develop functional markers for improving the selection efficiency of stalk strength. The application of genomic selection to RPR may be a promising approach to accelerate breeding process for improving stalk strength and enhancing lodging-resistance.
The impact of different geometric assumption of mitral annulus on the assessment of mitral regurgitation volume by Doppler method
Authors: Wang Wugang , Wang Zhibin , Li Junfang , Gong Kun , Zhao Liang , Tang Guozhang , Fu Xiuxiu
Published: January 2020

Background: Mitral regurgitation volume (MRvol) by quantitative pulsed Doppler (QPD) method previously recommended suffers from geometric assumption error because of circular geometric assumption of mitral annulus (MA). Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of different geometric assumption of MA on the assessment of MRvol by two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiographic QPD method. Methods: This study included 88 patients with varying degrees of mitral regurgitation (MR). The MRvol was evaluated by QPD method using circular or ellipse geometric assumption of MA. MRvol derived from effective regurgitant orifice area by real time three-dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE) multiplied by MR velocity-time integral was used as reference method. Results: Assumption of a circular geometry of MA, QPD-MAA4C and QPD-MAPLAX overestimated the MRvol by a mean difference of 10.4 ml (P ＜ 0.0001) and 22.5 ml (P ＜ 0.0001) compared with RT3DE. Assumption of a ellipse geometry of MA, there was no significant difference of MRvol (mean difference = 1.7 ml, P = 0.0844) between the QPD-MAA4C+A2C and the RT3DE. Conclusions: Assuming that the MA was circular geometry previously recommended, the MRvol by QPD-MAA4C was overestimated compared with the reference method. However, assuming that the MA was ellipse geometry, the MRvol by the QPD-MAA4C+A2C has no significant difference with the reference method.
Intestinal flora imbalance affects bile acid metabolism and is associated with gallstone formation.
Authors: Wang Qiang , Hao Chenjun , Yao Wenchao , Zhu Defu , Lu Haifeng , Li Long , Ma Biao , Sun Bei , Xue Dongbo , Zhang Weihui
Published: January 2020

Background: The gut microbiota participates in the metabolism of substances and energy, promotes the development and maturation of the immune system, forms the mucosal barrier, and protects the host from pathogen attacks. Although the pathogenesis of cholesterol gallstones is still not clear, studies have suggested that gut microbiota dysbiosis plays an important role in their formation.
Methods: Microbial DNA from faeces of normal control patients and those of patients with calculi was subjected to 16S rRNA gene sequencing to detect gene expression changes in intestinal microbes. ELISA kits were used to measure free bile acids, secondary bile acids and coprostanol according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The relationship between flora and their metabolites was then analysed.
Results: In the gallstone group, the diversity of intestinal bacteria and the abundances of certain phylogroups were significantly decreased (p<0.05), especially Firmicutes (p<0.05), the largest phylum represented by the gut microbiota. This study found an increase in free bile acids (p<0.001) and secondary bile acids (p<0.01) in the enterohepatic circulation. Bile salt hydrolase activity was not related to the abundances of BSH-active bacteria. 7a-dehydroxylating gut bacteria were significantly increased (p<0.01), whereas cholesterol-lowering bacteria were significantly reduced (p<0.05). The Ruminococcus gnavus group could be used as a biomarker to distinguish the gallstone group from the control group.
Conclusion: We conclude that intestinal flora imbalance affects bile acid and cholesterol metabolism and is associated with gallstone formation.
Keywords: Gut microbiota, Gallstone, Bile acid, BSH, 16S rRNA gene sequencing
A Simple Monochromatic Flow Cytometric Assay for Assessment of Intraerythrocytic Development of Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Kulkeaw Kasem , Ketprasit Nutpakal , Tungtrongchitr Anchalee , Palasuwan Duangdao
Published: January 2020

Background: Gold standard microscopic examination of P. falciparum intraerythrocytic stage remains an important process for staging and enumerating parasitized erythrocytes in culture; however, microscopy is laborious and its accuracy is dependent upon the skill of the examiner. Methods: In this study, we used ViSafe Green (VSG), which is a nucleic acid-binding fluorescent dye, to assess in vitro development of P. falciparum using flow cytometry. Results: Fluorescence intensity of VSG was found to depend on the developmental stage of parasites. Specifically, multiple-nuclei-containing schizonts were observed in the VSGhigh population, and growing trophozoites and ring-shaped forms were observed in the VSGintermediate and VSGlow populations. The efficacy of our VSG-based assay was found to be comparable to the microscopic examination method, and it demonstrated an ability to detect as low as 0.001% of the parasitemia estimated by Giemsa staining. Moreover, when applying VSG for antimalarial drug test, we were able to observe the growth inhibitory effect of dihydroartemisinin, the front-line drug for malaria therapy. Conclusions: Taken together, the results of this study suggest the VSG-based flow cytometric assay to be a simple and reliable assay for assessing P. falciparum malaria development in vitro.
Association of acute kidney injury with readmissions after hospitalization for acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A population-based study
Authors: Hirayama Atsushi , Goto Tadahiro , Hasegawa Kohei
Published: January 2020

Background and Aim: Little is known about the relationship between acute kidney injury (AKI) and outcomes after acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). We aimed to investigate associations between AKI and readmission risks after hospitalization for AECOPD.
Methods: A retrospective, population-based cohort study using State Inpatient Databases from seven U.S. states (Arkansas, California, Florida, Iowa, Nebraska, New York, and Utah) from 2010 through 2013. We identified all adults (aged ≥40 years) hospitalized for AECOPD during the study period. Among them, we further identified patients with a concurrent diagnosis of new AKI. The outcome measures were any-cause readmissions within 30 days and 90 days after hospitalization for AECOPD. To determine associations between AKI and readmission risk, we constructed Cox proportional hazards models examining the time-to-readmission. We also identified the primary reason of readmission.
Results: We identified 356,990 patients hospitalized for AECOPD. The median age was 71 years and 41.9% were male. Of these, 24,833 (7.0%) had a concurrent diagnosis of AKI. Overall, patients with AKI had significantly higher risk of 30-day all-cause readmission compared to those without AKI (hazard ratio 1.47; 95% CI 1.43-1.51; P<0.001). Likewise, patients with AKI had significantly higher risk of 90-day all-cause readmission (hazard ratio 1.35; 95% CI 1.32-1.38; P<0.001). These associations remained significant after adjustment for confounders (both P<0.05). Additionally, patients with AKI were likely to be readmitted for non-respiratory reasons including sepsis, acute renal failure, and congestive heart failure.
Conclusions: Among patients hospitalized for AECOPD, patients with AKI were at higher risk of 30-day and 90-day readmission, particularly with non-respiratory reasons.
Recovery and stable persistence of chloroquine sensitivity in Plasmodium falciparum parasites after its discontinued use in Northern Uganda.
Authors: Balikagala Betty , Yatsushiro Miki Sakurai , Tachibana Shin-Ichiro , Ikeda Mie , Yamauchi Masato , Katuro Osbert T. , Ntege Edward Hosea , Sekihara Makoto , Fukuda Naoyuki , Takahashi Nobuyuki , Yatsushiro Shouki , Mori Toshiyuki , Hirai Makoto , Opio Walter , Obwoya Paul S. , Anywar Denis Arony , Auma Mary Alai , Palacpac Nirianne Marie Querijero , Tsuboi Takafumi , Odongo-Aginya Emmanuel Igwaro , Kimura Eisaku , Ogwang Martin David , Horii Toshihiro , Mita Toshihiro
Published: January 2020

Background Usage of chloroquine was discontinued from the treatment of Plasmodium falciparum infection in almost all endemic regions because of global spread of resistant parasites. Since the first report in Malawi, numerous epidemiological studies have demonstrated that the discontinuance led to re-emergence of chloroquine-susceptible P. falciparum parasites, suggesting a possible role in future malaria control. However, most studies were cross-sectional, with few studies looking at the persistence of chloroquine recovery in long term. This study fills the gap by providing, for a period of at least 6 years, proof of persistent re-emergence/stable recovery of susceptible parasite populations using both molecular and phenotypic methods Methods Ex vivo drug-susceptibility assays to chloroquine (n = 319) and lumefantrine (n = 335) were performed from 2013 to 2018 in Gulu, Northern Uganda where chloroquine had been removed from the official malaria treatment regimen since 2006. Genotyping of pfcrt and pfmdr1 was also performed. Results Chloroquine resistance (100 nM) was observed in only 3 (1.3%) samples. Average IC 50 values for chloroquine were persistently low throughout the study period (17.4–24.9 nM). Parasites harboring p fcrt K76 alleles showed significantly lower IC 50 s to chloroquine than the parasites harboring K76T alleles (21.4 nM vs 43.1 nM, p-value= 3.9×10 -8 ). Prevalence of K76 alleles gradually increased from 71% in 2013 to 100% in 2018. Conclusion This study found evidence of stable persistence of chloroquine susceptibility with the fixation of pfcrt K76 in Northern Uganda after discontinuation of chloroquine in the region. Accumulation of similar evidence in other endemic areas in Uganda could open channels for possible future re-use of chloroquine as an option for malaria treatment or prevention.
The primary cilium dampens proliferative signaling and represses a G2/M transcriptional network in quiescent myoblasts
Authors: Venugopal Nisha , Ghosh Ananga , Gala Hardik , Aloysius Ajoy , Vyas Neha , Dhawan Jyotsna
Published: January 2020

Background Reversible cell cycle arrest (quiescence/G0) is characteristic of adult stem cells and is actively controlled at multiple levels. Quiescent cells also extend a primary cilium, which functions as a signaling hub. Primary cilia have been shown to be important in multiple developmental processes, and are implicated in numerous developmental disorders. Although the association of the cilium with G0 is established, the role of the cilium in the control of the quiescence program is still poorly understood. Results Primary cilia are dynamically regulated across different states of cell cycle exit in skeletal muscle myoblasts: quiescent myoblasts elaborate a primary cilium in vivo and in vitro , but terminally differentiated myofibers do not. Myoblasts where ciliogenesis is ablated using RNAi against a key ciliary assembly protein (IFT88) can exit the cell cycle but display an altered quiescence program and impaired self-renewal. Specifically, the G0 transcriptome in IFT88 knockdown cells is aberrantly enriched for G2/M regulators, suggesting a focused repression of this network by the cilium. Cilium-ablated cells also exhibit features of activation including enhanced activity of Wnt and mitogen signaling and elevated protein synthesis via inactivation of the translational repressor 4E-BP1. Conclusions Taken together, our results show that the primary cilium integrates and dampens proliferative signaling, represses translation and G2/M genes, and is integral to the establishment of the quiescence program.
Falciparum malaria from coastal Tanzania and Zanzibar remains highly connected despite effective control efforts on the archipelago
Authors: Morgan Andrew , Brazeau Nicholas , Ngasala Billy , Mhamilawa Lwidiko , Denton Madeline , Msellem Mwinyi , Morris Ulrika , Filer Dayne , Aydemir Ozkan , Bailey Jeffrey , Parr Jonathan , Mårtensson Andreas , Bjorkman Anders , Juliano Jonathan
Published: January 2020

Background
Tanzania’s Zanzibar archipelago has made significant gains in malaria control over the last decade and is a target for malaria elimination. Despite consistent implementation of effective tools since 2002, elimination has not been achieved. Importation of parasites from outside of the archipelago is thought to be an important cause of malaria’s persistence, but this paradigm has not been studied using modern genetic tools.
Methods
Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was used to investigate the impact of importation, employing population genetic analyses of Plasmodium falciparum isolates from both the archipelago and mainland Tanzania. Ancestry, levels of genetic diversity and differentiation, patterns of relatedness, and patterns of selection between these two populations were assessed by leveraging recent advances in deconvolution of genomes from polyclonal malaria infections.
Results
Significant decreases in the effective population sizes were inferred in both populations that coincide with a period of decreasing malaria transmission in Tanzania. Identity by descent analysis showed that parasites in the two populations shared long segments of their genomes, on the order of 5 cM, suggesting shared ancestry within the last 10 generations. Even with limited sampling, two of isolates between the mainland and Zanzibar were identified that are related at the expected level of half-siblings, consistent with recent importation.
Conclusions
These findings suggest that importation plays an important role for malaria incidence on Zanzibar and demonstrate the value of genomic approaches for identifying corridors of parasite movement to the island.
Potential of Zymomonas mobilis as an electricity producer in ethanol production
Authors: Geng Bo-Yu , Cao Lian-Ying , Li Feng , Song Hao , Liu Chen-Guang , Zhao Xin-Qing , Bai Feng-Wu
Published: January 2020

Background: Microbial fuel cell (MFC) convokes microorganism to convert biomass into electricity. However, most well-known electrogenic strains can not directly use glucose to produce valuable products. Zymomonas mobilis, a promising bacterium for ethanol production, owns special Entner-Doudoroff pathway with less ATP and biomass produced and the low energy-coupling respiration, making Z. mobilis a potential exoelectrogen. Results: A glucose-consumed MFC is constructed by inoculating Z. mobilis. The electricity with power density 2.0 mW m-2 is derived from the difference of oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) between anode and cathode chambers. Besides, two-type electricity generation is observed as glucose-independent process and glucose-dependent process. For the sake of enhancing MFC efficiency, extracellular and intracellular strategies are implemented. Biofilm removal and addition of c-type cytochrome benefits electricity performance and Tween 80 accelerates the electricity generation. Perturbation of cellular redox balance compromises the electricity output, indicating that redox homeostasis is the principal requirement to reach ideal voltage. Conclusion: This study identifies potential feature of electricity activity for Z. mobilis and provides multiple strategies to enhance the electricity output. Therefore, additional electricity generation will benefit the techno-economic viability of the commercial bulk production for biochemicals or biofuels in an efficient and environmentally sustainable manner.
A nationwide survey on the use of Heated Humidified High Flow Oxygen therapy on the paediatric wards in the UK: current practice and research priorities
Authors: Hosheh Osama , Edwards Christopher T , Ramnarayan Padmanabhan
Published: January 2020

Background: Heated Humidified High Flow Nasal Cannula Oxygen Therapy (HHFNC) is increasingly used on the paediatric wards and High Dependency Units (HDU) for different types of pathologies and different age groups. Objective: We aimed to describe current practice related to the use of HHFNC on the paediatric wards and HDUs, weaning practices and preferred outcome measures for future research. Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional online survey of UK paediatric consultants or their delegates working on the paediatric wards. Proportions of the HHFNC users, their specialties, and their level of experience were surveyed. Reasons for HHFNC initiation, weaning criteria, patients’ characteristics and their primary pathologies were also analysed. Results: Participation of 218 paediatricians from 81 hospitals (Median: 2.7, Range: 1-11) was registered. HHFNC was provided in most of the surveyed hospitals (93%, 75/81). A High Dependency Unit (HDU) was available in 47 hospitals (58%); less than a third of those have a dedicated paediatrician. Decisions around HHFNC were made solely by paediatricians in (75%) of the cases, mostly at hospitals with no HDU compared to those with dedicated HDUs (70.3% VS 36.6%, 95%CI:22.6%-50.4%, P< .001). Most respondents (72%) agreed that HHFNC is either the same or superior to nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure therapy (nCPAP). Failure rate while on HHFNC was identified as the most important outcome measure in any future research followed by the length of need for HHFNC support (37.1%, and 28% respectively). Conclusion: This is the first and largest national survey to study HHFNC on the paediatric wards. Respondents showed support for developing a paediatric-specific national guidance on the use of HHFNC on the wards. Our list of defined research priorities may help guide further collaborative research efforts in this field.
Benefit of dosimetry distribution for patients with multiple brain metastases from non-small cell lung cancer by Cyberknife Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) system
Authors: YU Xuyao , Wang Yuwen , Yuan Zhiyong , Yu Hui , Song Yongchun , Zhao Lujun , Wang Ping
Published: January 2020

Background: To pursue high precision in tumor and steeper dose fall-off in healthy tissues of brain metastases stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), this study investigated an opitimized planning by comparison only one multiple-lesions-plan (MLP) and multiple single-lesion-plans (SLP) in the treatment of brain metastases using Cyberknife (CK) Robotic Radiosurgery System. Methods : Fifty non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients (28 males and 22 females) with 2-4 multiple brain metastases were retrospectively replanned with 12 to 32 Gy prescription dose in 1 to 3 fractions. Two different clinical SRS plans (SLP and MLP) for the same patients were generated, under the same collimator and prescription isodose line (62-68%) by CK Multiplan System. Both the SLP and MLP were able to get ＞95% PTV volume covered prescription isodose and meet the Timmerman 2011 OAR (brainstem, optic nerve and pituitary) constraints. Resluts: Compared with the SLP, the maximum dose (Dmax) and mean dose (Dmean) of brainstem in the MLP decreased 0.22-3.13% (2.62%) and 2.71-12.56% (5.57%), over all P＜0.05. While the volumes of whole brain minus the tumors received a single dose equivalence of 8-16Gy (V8Gy-V16Gy) could effectively reduce in the MLP. And the treatment time parameters (the total number of beams and monitor units (MU)) of the MLP declined 3.31% and 1.47% (P＜0.05) respectively. Although there were a few differences of conformity index (CI) and homogeneity index (HI) between two treatment plans, it was no statistical significance (P = 2.94 and 1.08＞ 0.05). Conclusion: One multiple-lesions-plan for brain metastases could achieve higher precision in target and lower dose in healthy tissue, while shorten the treatment time and improve the treatment efficiency.