bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strongly decreased gap junctional permeability to inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate in connexin32 deficient hepatocytes
Authors: Niessen Heiner , Willecke Klaus
Published: July 2002

Livers from connexin32 (Cx32) deficient mice have been shown to be defective in hormonally induced glucose mobilization. In order to determine whether this effect is due to decreased diffusion of the second messenger inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate (IP3) between hepatocytes, we injected iontophoretically different amounts of IP3 in Fura‐2 loaded hepatocyte doublets (i.e. cell pairs) from wild type or Cx32 deficient mice. Whereas 84% of wild type hepatocytes showed an intercellular Ca2+ wave spreading from the injected cell to the neighboring cell, only 25% of Cx32 deficient hepatocyte doublets did so. The amount of IP3 necessary to induce an intercellular Ca2+ wave in Cx32 deficient hepatocyte doublets was estimated to be about 25‐fold higher than in wild type doublets. This confirms the notion that the low hormonally or electrically induced glucose mobilization found in Cx32 deficient livers relative to wild type livers is due to largely hindered diffusion of IP3 between Cx32 deficient hepatocytes.
Adhesion proteins expressed on human gamete surfaces and egg activation
Authors: Finaz Catherine , Hammami‐Hamza Sonia
Published: July 2002

The initiation and propagation of a Ca2+ signal through the egg seems to be the pivotal event in triggering of meiosis resumption. Over the past decade evidence has accumulated suggesting that sperm contact is essential for this phenomenon to occur in most physiological groups. Given their ability to transduce signals, adhesive proteins which are involved in various binding mechanisms such as cell migration, lymphocyte activation, phagocytosis and virus fusion may play a similar role in fertilization. They have been the subject of serious investigation in non‐human mammals and some emerging data indicate that they are active in humans as well. Our goal is to review the presence of such molecules on human gametes and their relevant physiological role, i.e., integrins and their ligands, selectins, IgG Fc receptors and leucocyte differentiation markers. We will discuss how they might trigger egg activation through signaling pathways in light of their identified functions in other adhesion systems. The putative participation of specific human sperm proteins will also be evaluated.
Immunohistochemical localization of laminin, fibronectin and collagen type IV in the nerve fiber layer of the olfactory bulb
Authors: Doucette R.
Published: July 2002

When the olfactory nerve is injured in adult mammals, the axons grow across the PNS‐CNS transitional zone and re‐innervate their synaptic contacts within the olfactory bulb. Some years ago, Liesi [Liesi P. (1985) Laminin‐immunoreactive glia distinguish regenerative adult CNS systems from non‐regenerative ones.EMBO J.4, 2505–2511] reported the presence of laminin in non‐basal lamina locations within the nerve fiber layer (NFL) of the olfactory bulb of adult rats and suggested that this molecule may facilitate olfactory axonal growth into and within the CNS. The purpose of the present study was to compare the expression of laminin, fibronectin, and collagen type IV in: (a) the NFL of developing and adult rats; and (b) the NFL rostral and caudal to a stab wound in the olfactory bulb of adult rats. Numerous punctate deposits of immunofluorescence were seen in the NFL of the E18 (Theiler stage 23) bulb when antisera to laminin, fibronectin or collagen type IV were used. There was a dramatic drop‐off in staining at the border between the NFL and the presumptive glomerular layer. The staining pattern was similar in the newborn bulb, although the immunofluorescence was not as strong. In the unoperated adult rats, only laminin was present consistently as punctate deposits within the NFL, whereas all three antisera stained numerous punctate deposits within the NFL during the first week after a stab wound. Although there was a partial recapitulation of the expression pattern for laminin, fibronectin and collagen type IV in the lesioned adult NFL, it never reached the extent found in the E18 or newborn bulbs and its expression returned to normal levels prior to the re‐innervation of the bulb during the second and third weeks after surgery. The results suggest that the molecular requirements for the successful growth of olfactory axons may differ during development to growth in adult animals.
Activity blockade does not prevent the construction of olfactory glomeruli in the mothManduca sexta
Authors: Oland Lynne A. , Pott Wendy M. , Bukhman Gene , Sun Xue J. , Tolbert Leslie P.
Published: July 2002

During metamorphic development, the arrival at the olfactory (antennal) lobe of olfactory receptor axons initiates the process of glomerulus formation. The glomeruli are discrete spheroidal regions of neuropil that are the sites of synaptic interactions among receptor neurons and their target antennal‐lobe neurons. The process of glomerulus formation begins as groups of receptor axons form protoglomeruli. These dense clusters of terminal branches mostly are discrete entities from the time they can be recognized, although a few branches from neighboring protoglomeruli overlap laterally. A previous study by Schweitzeret al. [Schweitzer E. S., Sanes J. R. and Hildebrand J. G. (1976) Ontogeny of electroantennogram responses in the moth,Manduca sexta. J. Insect Physiol.22, 955–960] has shown that odor‐induced activity in the receptor neurons can be detected first in recordings from the axons in the antennal nerve only in the last few days of metamorphic development and thus could not influence the process of glomerulus formation. In this study, we have tested directly the possibility that an earlier presence of spontaneous activity in either the receptor axons or the antennal‐lobe neurons could affect the process. Tetrodotoxin, a Na+‐channel blocker, was injected into the hemolymph prior to the onset of glomerulus formation to block any spontaneous Na+‐dependent activity. Subsequent intracellular recordings from antennal‐lobe neurons revealed no spike activity. Comparison with vehicle‐injected control animals at stages during and after glomerulus formation revealed no differences in the localization of receptor‐axon terminal branches in the glomeruli, in the border of glial cells that forms around each glomerulus, or in the morphology of the tufted glomerular arbors of one of the antennal‐lobe neurons. We conclude that: (1) the process of glomerulus formation is largely independent of activity; and (2) glomeruli as modular units of the CNS more closely resemble cortical barrels than cortical columns, both in their ontogeny and in the lack of an obvious effect of activity on the morphology of the neurons arborizing within them.
Ontogeny of epinephrine metabolic pathways in the rat: role of glucocorticoids
Authors: Kennedy Brian , Ziegler Michael G.
Published: July 2002

Recent studies suggest that the initial expression of adrenal phenylethanolamine N‐methyltransferase (PNMT) and epinephrine (E) are dependent upon stimulation of adrenal glucocorticoid receptors. However, evidence suggests that the expression of heart and brain PNMT is independent of glucocorticoids. We measured PNMT activity and E levels in adrenal, heart and head over the latter half of gestation in rat fetuses treated chronically with glucocorticoids, and in normal controls. Chronic glucocorticoid treatment ending on embryonic day (e)12 did not affect heart, head or trunk PNMT activity or E levels. In contrast, chronic glucocorticoid exposure ending e19 or e20 resulted in marked increases in both PNMT and E in adrenal, heart and head tissues. The elevation of E in all three tissues was unaffected by maternal adrenalectomy, indicating enhanced fetal E synthesis. In the absence of exogenous glucocorticoid treatment heart PNMT activity peaked on e12, prior to the earliest reported appearance of glucocorticoid receptors. We conclude that expression of PNMT in all three tissues is glucocorticoid independent until the latter part of gestation when it is readily enhanced by glucocorticoids.
Mangageable violence in a new ward for acutely admitted patients
Authors: Omérov M , Wistedt B
Published: July 2002

Both clinical experience and earlier research have indicated that an increased number of violent incidents in a psychiatric ward may be strongly associated with the use of new staff. In 1991 a substantial number of staff was recriuted to a ward for commited patients. Incidents of violence were registered over the following 12-month period. The results of this study were compared with early registered violent incidents in a previous setting. It was found that the frequency of violent incidents could be kept at a low and stable level despite the new situation. In conclusion, a certain number of factors may be expected to affect the results: the specific pharmacotherapy in the treatment of acute psychosis, the physical environment of the ward, and, in particular, staff training.
Clinical pharmacology: Niche or panorama? And does it matter?
Authors: Reidenberg June W.
Published: July 2002

Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2001) 69, 385–386; doi: 10.1067/mcp.2001.116329
Structural Design and Pyroelectric Property of SnS/CdS Heterojunctions Contrived for Low‐Temperature Visible Photodetectors
Authors: Chang Yu , Wang Jianyuan , Wu Fangli , Tian Wei , Zhai Wei
Published: April 2020

The traditional photodetectors based on photoelectric effect exhibit inferior response or even out of operation with the decrease of temperature. However, cryogenic visible light detection is increasingly demanded in deep space and polar exploration. Herein, a self‐powered visible photodetector coupling pyroelectricity and photoelectricity to optimize the cryogenic detecting performance is designed in which hydrothermally grown CdS nanorod array is covered by SnS nanoflakes. The choice of SnS allows the detector with strong visible light absorption and great photoelectric conversion efficiency, while the CdS nanorod structure with pyroelectricity can effectively modulate the behavior of photogenerated carriers at low temperatures. It is found that the response characteristics of the photodetector are dominated by the combination of pyroelectric and photoelectric effects, which becomes more significant with the reduced temperature. Specifically, at 130 K temperature, the photoresponse current under 650 nm light is improved by 7.5 times as that at room temperature, while the ratio of pyroelectric current to photocurrent can be increased to 400%. Meanwhile, the responsivity and detectivity are as high as 10.4 mA W−1 and 3.56 × 1011 Jones, respectively. This work provides a promising approach to develop high‐performance self‐powered visible photodetectors with low‐temperature operating capability.
Trends in Thermal Separation Technologies – An Industrial Perspective
Authors: Knösche Carsten
Published: April 2020

The article discusses future trends and their implications on separation technologies starting from the main drivers of technological developments. Especially the consequences of the expected energy and raw material change and the increasing international economic competition on process technologies are addressed. Special attention is given to the opportunities of increasing computational power and the availability of high‐performance networks for scientific modeling and their use in process industries.
In Situ Analysis of Lactose Crystal in Solution through Slurry Flow Cell X‐Ray Diffraction
Authors: Zhu Binyu
Published: April 2020

To realize the in situ study of polycrystals, X‐ray diffraction (XRD) with the sample stage of slurry flow cell is used to study the crystal state of the lactose in solution directly. The influence of absolute ethyl alcohol and pH on the crystallization of lactose is investigated by the slurry flow cell. As the lactose is dispersed into absolute ethyl alcohol, the equilibrium of crystal is reconstructed, which induces crystal dissolution, nucleation formation, and crystal growth, then results in the difference of lactose diffractogram between the absolute ethyl alcohol solution and powder state. Peaks become sharper and higher in absolute ethyl alcohol than those of absolute ethyl alcohol with pH 3.5, which suggests that the crystal growth is easier in ethyl alcohol solution. The investigation of absolute ethyl alcohol and pH on the lactose crystals proves the capability of the XRD technique for in situ crystallization study.
Diffraction of electromagnetic waves by a resistive half‐plane in magneto‐ionic plasma
Authors: Umul Yusuf Ziya
Published: April 2020

The interaction of magnetic polarized electromagnetic wave with a resistive half‐plane in magneto‐ionic plasma is investigated. The method of transition boundary is used for the evaluation of the diffracted wave. The excitation of surface waves is examined in the medium and their diffracted fields are derived by using the diffraction theory for grazing incidence. The uniform field expressions are obtained with the aid of the uniform theory for evanescent waves. The behaviours of the derived scattered waves are studied numerically.
Epilepsy phenotype in individuals with chromosomal duplication encompassing FGF12
Authors: Willemsen Marjolein H. , Goel Himanshu , Verhoeven Judith S. , Braakman Hilde M. H. , de Leeuw Nicole , Freeth Alison , Minassian Berge A.
Published: April 2020

Intragenic mutations in FGF12 are associated with intractable seizures, developmental regression, intellectual disability, ataxia, hypotonia, and feeding difficulties. FGF12 duplications are rarely reported, but it was suggested that those might have a similar gain‐of‐function effect and lead to a more or less comparable phenotype. A favorable response to the sodium blocker phenytoin was reported in several cases, both in patients with an intragenic mutation and in patients with a duplication of FGF12. We report three individuals from two families with FGF12 duplications. The duplications are flanked and probably mediated by two long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs). The duplication cases show phenotypic overlap with the cases with intragenic mutations. Though the onset of epilepsy might be later, after the onset of seizures both groups show developmental stagnation and regression in several cases. This illustrates and further confirms that chromosomal FGF12 duplications and intragenic gain‐of‐function mutations yield overlapping phenotypes.
Investigation on Ag‐containing compound generated in manufacturing of low‐temperature polycrystalline Si active matrix organic light‐emitting diode
Authors: Jin Yu , Fu Dongzhi , Lee Julong , Wang Enlai , Lu Yunlei , Xi Wangfeng , Jiang Jijun , Zhu Yangjie , Zhao Xuan , Liu Bin
Published: April 2020

In this work, we report a systematic investigation on Ag‐containing compound widely generated in anode wet etching process of low‐temperature polycrystalline Si active matrix organic light‐emitting diode (LTPS‐AMOLED). The formation mechanism of the aforementioned compound was proposed and confirmed by sufficient evidence. The relevant test results show that, unlike traditional metal compounds, this compound cannot be removed by aqueous oxalic acid solution. Furthermore, the reported Ag‐containing compounds grow and migrate in response to electric fields in high‐temperature and high‐humidity environment (85°C, 85% humidity) to short neighboring integrated circuit pads, causing severe product reliability failure. Spectra test results indicate that products with reliability failure are characterized by reduced display brightness and shifted color coordinates. To improve the reliability failure caused by Ag‐containing compounds, five potential schemes are presented, and most of them are conducted in this study.
Experimental validation of a semi‐distributed sequential quadratic programming method for optimal coordination of automated vehicles at intersections
Authors: Hult Robert , Zanon Mario , Frison Gianluca , Gros Sébastien , Falcone Paolo
Published: April 2020

In this article, we study the optimal coordination of automated vehicles at intersections. The problem can be stated as an optimal control problem (OCP), which can be decomposed as a bi‐level scheme composed by one nonlinear program (NLP) which schedules the access to the intersection and one OCP per vehicle which computes the appropriate vehicle commands. We discuss a practical implementation of the bi‐level controller where the NLP is solved with a tailored semi‐distributed sequential quadratic programming (SQP) algorithm that enables distribution of most computation to the vehicles. Results from an extensive experimental campaign are presented, where the bi‐level controller and the semi‐distributed SQP are implemented on a test setup consisting of three automated vehicles. In particular, we show that the vehicle‐level controller can enforce the scheduled intersection access beyond the accuracy admitted by the sensor system, and that the bi‐level controller can handle large perturbations and large communication delays, which makes the scheme applicable in practical scenarios. Finally, the use of wireless communication introduces delays in the outer control loop. To allow faster feedback, we introduce a real‐time iteration (RTI) like variation of the bi‐level controller. Experimental and simulated results indicate that the RTI‐like variation offers comparable performance using less computation and communication.
Characterization of the metabolites of gigantol in rat, dog, monkey, and human hepatocytes using ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Wang Jingying , Liu Yang , Liu Chunyan , Shi Qinghong
Published: April 2020

Rationale

Gigantol (3′,4‐dihydroxy‐3,5′‐dimethoxybibenzyl) is a bibenzyl compound isolated from Dendrobii Caulis that has been widely used as a medicinal herb in China. To fully understand the mechanism of action of gigantol, it is necessary to determine its metabolic profile.

Methods

Gigantol at a concentration of 20 μM was incubated with hepatocytes (rat, dog, monkey, and human) at 37°C. After 120 min incubation, the samples were analyzed using liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. The structures of the metabolites were characterized by their molecular masses, product ions, and retention times.

Results

A total of 17 metabolites were detected and structurally identified. The metabolism involved the following pathways: (a) oxidation to form quinone‐methide species and subsequently conjugation with glutathione (GSH); (b) demethylation to form demethylated gigantol, which was further conjugated with GSH; (c) hydroxylation to yield hydroxyl‐gigantol followed by glucuronidation or GSH conjugation; and (d) glucuronidation to form glucuronide conjugates. Glucuronidation was the primary metabolic pathway in all tested species.

Conclusions

Hydroxylation, demethylation, glucuronidation, and GSH conjugation were the major metabolic pathways of gigantol. This study provides new information on the metabolic profiles of gigantol and helps us understand the disposition of the compound.
My Life as Scientist and Professor
Authors: Banks Peter M.
Published: April 2020

The foundations for my professional life began at Stanford University, thanks to a four year Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps scholarship and, in my fifth year, securing a graduate research assistantship. Although I was enrolled at Stanford as an Electrical Engineering major, I took many physics classes. My Physics teachers included Willis Lamb and Robert Hofstadter (Nobel Prize winning faculty) as well as the renowned Wolfgang Panofsky. In addition, I had close contact with two Physics graduate assistants: Henry Kendall (who later became a Nobel Prize winner) and James Bjorken (who was awarded the coveted Wolf Prize in physics). From these contacts and my classes, I came to learn that Physics would be my lifetime intellectual home. Not incidentally, Kendall and Bjorken were also responsible for my collegiate addiction to rock climbing, usually on the soft sandstone near Stanford but also along the walls of Yosemite Valley and peaks of Tuolumne Meadows.
Distinct microbial communities among different tissues of citrus tree Citrus reticulata cv. Chachiensis
Authors: Wu Yongxian , Qu Mengqiu , Pu Xinhua , Lin Jintian , Shu Benshui
Published: April 2020

Plant microbiota colonize all organs of a plant and play crucial roles including supplying nutrients to plants, stimulating seed germination, promoting plant growth, and defending plants against biotic and abiotic stress. Because of the economic importance, interactions between citrus and microbes have been studied relatively extensively, especially citrus-pathogen interactions. However, the spatial distribution of microbial taxa in citrus trees remains under-studied. In this study, Citrus reticulata cv. Chachiensis was examined for the spatial distribution of microbes by sequencing 16S rRNA genes. More than 2.5 million sequences were obtained from 60 samples collected from soil, roots, leaves, and phloem. The dominant microbial phyla from all samples were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Acidobacteria. The composition and structure of microbial communities in different samples were analyzed by PCoA, CAP, Anosim and MRPP methods. Variation in microbial species between samples were analyzed and the indicator microbes of each sample group were identified. Our results suggested that the microbial communities from different tissues varied significantly and the microenvironments of tree tissues could affect the composition of its microbial community.
Risk Factors for Blood Transfusion in Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty for Mechanical Failure
Authors: Lee Ryan , Lee Danny , Fassihi Safa , Zeller Zachary , Stake Seth , Kappa Jason , Webber Michael , Thakkar Savyasachi C. , Pandarinath Rajeev
Published: April 2020

Revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA) is associated with significant intraoperative blood loss requiring transfusion. Given that blood transfusions increase the risk of numerous complications, efforts should be made to determine which patients are at high risk of transfusion and optimize them appropriately. This study aimed to identify independent risk factors associated with blood transfusion in patients undergoing rTHA for mechanical failure. A multi-institutional surgical registry was queried for all patients who underwent rTHA for mechanical failure from 2005 to 2016. Patients were divided into transfused and nontransfused cohorts and underwent univariate analysis for differences in demographic features, preoperative comorbidities, and operative variables. Multivariate regression models were generated to elucidate independent risk factors associated with perioperative blood transfusions. A total of 8,469 rTHA patients met inclusion and exclusion criteria, of which 1,863 (22.0%) received blood transfusions within 72 hours postoperatively. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, age ≥ 65 years (odds ratio [OR] 1.313; p < 0.001), female gender (OR 1.465; p < 0.001), insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (OR 1.503; p = 0.003), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD; OR 1.307; p = 0.030), hypertension (OR 1.359; p < 0.001), hematologic disorders (OR 1.565; p < 0.001), preoperative blood transfusions (OR 3.851; p < 0.001), systemic sepsis (OR 2.277; p = 0.003), functional dependence (OR 1.416; p = 0.003), open wounds/wound infections (OR 2.878; p < 0.001), and operations lasting at least 175 minutes (OR 4.841; p < 0.001) were all significant independent risk factors for blood transfusions. Obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 kg/m2; OR 0.818; p = 0.001), smoking history (OR 0.800; p = 0.014), and isolated acetabular component revision (OR 0.730; p < 0.001) were associated with a decreased risk of blood transfusion. Older age, female gender, lower BMI, absence of smoking history, functional dependence, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, hypertension, revision of the femoral component, preoperative transfusion, hematologic disorders, sepsis, open wounds/wound infections, COPD, and longer operative time were all independent risk factors for blood transfusions in rTHA performed for mechanical failure. By identifying these risk factors, clinicians can identify and optimize high-risk patients to minimize blood transfusion requirements, thereby reducing the risk of transfusion-associated complications in this patient population.
Retrospective Study of Prosthetic Augmentation Mammoplasty in Transwomen
Authors: Balakrishnan T. M. , Nagarajan Sandeep , Jaganmohan J.
Published: April 2020

Introduction Hormonal therapy and gender-conforming surgeries are the treatments of choice in appropriately selected male-to-female transsexuals. The Prosthetic Augmentation Mammoplasty (PAM) in transwomen is the second most common sex conforming procedure performed in our department.

Aim This study was aimed to assess the esthetic outcomes of PAM performed from 2007 to 2017 in 42 transwomen.

Patients and Methods It is a retrospective study wherein the documents of 42 transwomen who had undergone PAM were reviewed. Twenty-three transwomen who had pinch fold thickness more than 2.5 cm had undergone subglandular/subfascial (SG/SF) plane augmentation; rest had dual plane augmentation. All the cases were followed-up for an average period of 45 months. A validated institutional score for subjective assessment and objective assessment (by two independent observers) were used at the end of follow-up period.

Statistical Analysis Used Student’s t-test was used for statistical analysis.

Results On an average, 92.85% of transwomen achieved grade-A score with both subjective and objective assessment scoring system.

Conclusion PAM gives a finishing and colossal touch for transwomen to orient their somatic sex to psychic sex. To get the best cosmetic outcomes and lasting results the PAM in transwomen has to be made a more reasoning and scientific procedure rather than an emotional and irrational procedure. Author’s PAM approach facilitates transwomen to rejoice their veritable total genderness in harmony with their gender identity.
Hearing and balance complaints as presenting symptoms of petrous bone malignancies
Authors: Tealdo Giulia , Zanoletti Elisabetta
Published: April 2020

Objective:

Hearing loss and imbalance are specific symptoms of inner ear disease which could hide severe condition, such as endolymphatic sac tumour (ELST) or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The audiologist or the otologist, starting from not specific audiologic and vestibular symptoms can be faced by malignant tumours with severe prognosis, where early diagnosis can make the difference in outcome of treatment.

Methods:

We assessed the presenting symptoms, the audiological pattern, therapy and outcomes in 17 cases of ear malignancies (seven patients affected by ELST and ten by SCC).

Results:

All of ELST cases reported hearing loss as presenting symptom. Dizziness and imbalance were present in most cases. The mean diagnostic delay from the clinical onset was 26 months. Most patients were treated with extensive lateral skull base procedures. The recurrence rate and disease free-survival were 20% and 80%, respectively. In SCC patients, ear pain was the most frequent symptom, followed by dizziness and fullness. In all cases, treatment involved surgery with large extensive procedures. The recurrence and disease free-survival were 50% and 50%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Ear malignancies are difficult to detect, a specific audiological and vestibular symptoms should not be underestimated, early diagnosis and therapy influence the unfavourable outcome.
The impact of organizational storytelling on organizational performance within Jordanian telecommunication sector
Authors: Khdour Naser , Masa'deh Ra'ed , Al-Raoush Atef
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This study aims to assess the impact of organizational storytelling on organizational performance by undertaking telecommunication companies located in the Middle Eastern nation of Jordan.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative design has been adopted to identify the impact of organizational storytelling on organizational performance, recruiting 460 employees at managerial levels from three telecom companies (Umniah, Zain and Orange). A step-wise regression analysis has been applied to analyze the data collected using a close-ended structured questionnaire.

Findings

A total of 284 male and 176 female employees took part in the study. The study has found a positive and significant impact of organizational learning, change management, corporate culture, training and development and leadership and indicated that these determinants positively related to organizational performance. Findings showed a positive and significant impact of organizational storytelling on organizational performance based on its components.

Practical implications

This study has contributed to identifying the impact of organizational storytelling on organizational performance in the telecommunication sector in Jordan.

Originality/value

This study is among the few to analyses the impact of organizational storytelling based on training and development, change management, corporate culture, organizational learning and development and leadership on the organizational performance of telecom companies in Jordan.
Effects of Andersson lesion treatment in ankylosing spondylitis: A medical record review study focused on medium‐ to long‐term outcomes
Authors: Wu Minhao , Yan Feifei , Ping Ansong , Lei Jun
Published: April 2020

The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of Andersson lesion (AL) treatments and prognostic factors using medium‐ to long‐term follow‐up data and discuss the clinical characteristics and treatment of AL. Forty‐eight consecutive AL cases at our center from June 2011 to March 2018 were retrospectively analyzed, including 13 cases treated conservatively and 35 treated surgically. Epidemiological characteristics, treatment modalities, clinical features and outcomes, and prognostic factors of the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) recovery rate were reviewed. Neurological functional recovery was evaluated by American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) classification. Clinical efficacy was evaluated by JOA score, visual analog scale (VAS) score, and Cobb's angle. The mean overall follow‐up duration was 44.5±18.5 months (range, 27–85 months). There were 36 male and 12 female patients, with a mean age of 49.4±13.1 years (range, 26–72 years). The most common lesion location was the thoracolumbar region, i.e., T10‐L2 (n=33; 68.8%), followed by the thoracic (n=10) and lumbar (n=5) regions. Patients treated surgically showed significantly better JOA scores, VAS scores and Cobb's angles at the final follow‐up than did patients treated conservatively (P<.05). Univariate and binary logistic regression analyses identified two prognostic factors of the JOA score recovery rate: treatment modality (OR=0.157; 95%CI, 0.028–0.89; P=.036) and bone fusion (OR=9.965; 95%CI, 2.052–48.387; P=.004). Conservative treatment and bone nonunion predict worse JOA score recovery. Surgery remains the optimal treatment for AL in ankylosing spondylitis patients, with better clinical efficacy demonstrated by medium‐ to long‐term follow‐up data.
Multiple jeopardy: Diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in vasculitic flare
Authors: Misra Durga Prasanna , Jain Neeraj , Harikrishnan Gangadharan , Agarwal Vikas
Published: April 2020

A 57‐year old gentleman had presented a year back with inflammatory oligoarthritis and vasculitic neuropathy, diagnosed as unclassifiable vasculitis, initiated on oral corticosteroids and intravenous cyclophosphamide (monthly X 6). His disease stabilized and he had been maintained on azathioprine, which had to be stopped due to acute pancreatitis with subsequent pseudocyst formation, requiring percutaneous drainage suspecting infection. Within a week of pseudocyst drainage, he developed sudden onset pain in left upper limb, with absent left upper limb pulses, loss of motor function of left hand, myocardial ischemia, and extensive thrombosis of the left upper limb arteries. Neuropathy in the left upper limb was either vasculitic, or ischemic due to arterial thrombosis. However, multifocal thrombosis suggested an ongoing vasculitic flare. In view of possible infected pancreatic pseudocyst, intravenous methylprednisolone pulse was contra‐indicated. Hence, he was offered intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy, despite the risk of potentially worsening the prevalent prothrombotic state. On the second day of IVIG, he developed transiently tingling and weakness of right hand with vasculitic rashes, which subsequently resolved, reaffirming the suspicion of vasculitic flare. After completing IVIG therapy, the weakness in his left hand had markedly improved. His myocardial ischemia had also recovered, with a repeat echocardiography showing normalization of prior left ventricular hypokinesia. In the intervening period, the pseudocysts were drained, following which he was initiated on rituximab. This case highlights numerous challenges in the initial diagnosis, distinguishing vasculitic from ischemic neuropathy, and the management of vasculitic flare during infection.
US agricultural exports and labor market adjustments
Authors: He Xi
Published: April 2020

This study empirically investigates the impact of US agricultural exports on farm and nonfarm employment and tests how individuals adjust to agricultural export shocks. Based on the data from 1991 to 2017 and a Bartik‐style instrument that exploits cross‐regional variation in agricultural export exposure stemming from initial differences in agricultural specialization and temporal variation in predicted US exports from exogenous tariff reductions, we find that a 1% increase in agricultural exports increases farm employment by 0.302% and has no statistically significant impact on nonfarm employment. The individual‐level analysis shows that, in response to positive agricultural export demand shocks, natives with a college degree are more likely to become self‐employed and start farm activities and while non‐natives without a college degree are more likely to become hired farmworkers. A back‐of‐the‐envelope calculation based on the estimates of agricultural trade elasticities of employment shows that on balance, job gains due to US agricultural exports are slightly larger than job loss due to agricultural imports, resulting in a net gain of around 0.24 million farm jobs over 1991–2017.
Using, risking, and consent: Why risking harm to bystanders is morally different from risking harm to research subjects
Authors: Walen Alec
Published: April 2020

Subjects in studies on humans are used as a means of conducting the research and achieving whatever good would justify putting them at risk. Accordingly, consent must normally be obtained before subjects are exposed to any substantial risks to their welfare. Bystanders are also often put at risk, but they are not used as a means. Accordingly—or so I argue—consent is more often unnecessary before bystanders are exposed to similar substantial risks to their welfare.
Epilepsy in LAMA2‐related muscular dystrophy: An electro‐clinico‐radiological characterization
Authors: Natera‐de Benito Daniel , Muchart Jordi , Itzep Debora , Ortez Carlos , González‐Quereda Lidia , Gallano Pía , Ramirez Alia , Aparicio Javier , Domínguez‐Carral Jana , Carrera‐García Laura , Expósito‐Escudero Jessica , Pardo Cardozo Nathalia , Cuadras Daniel , Codina Anna , Jou Cristina , Jimenez‐Mallebrera Cecilia , Palau Francesc , Colomer Jaume , Arzimanoglou Alexis , Nascimento Andrés , San Antonio‐Arce Victoria
Published: April 2020

Objective

To delineate the epileptic phenotype of LAMA2‐related muscular dystrophy (MD) and correlate it with the neuroradiological and muscle biopsy findings, as well as the functional motor phenotype.

Methods

Clinical, electrophysiological, neuroradiological, and histopathological data of 25 patients with diagnosis of LAMA2‐related MD were analyzed.

Results

Epilepsy occurred in 36% of patients with LAMA2‐related MD. Mean age at first seizure was 8 years. The most common presenting seizure type was focal‐onset seizures with or without impaired awareness. Visual aura and autonomic signs, including vomiting, were frequently reported. Despite a certain degree of variability, bilateral occipital or temporo‐occipital epileptiform abnormalities were by far the most commonly observed. Refractory epilepsy was found in 75% of these patients. Epilepsy in LAMA2‐related MD was significantly more prevalent in those patients in whom the cortical malformations were more extensive. In contrast, the occurrence of epilepsy was not found to be associated with the patients' motor ability, the size of their white matter abnormalities, or the amount of residual merosin expressed on muscle.

Significance

The epileptic phenotype of LAMA2‐related MD is characterized by focal seizures with prominent visual and autonomic features associated with EEG abnormalities that predominate in the posterior quadrants. A consistent correlation between epileptic phenotype and neuroimaging was identified, suggesting that the extension of the polymicrogyria may serve as a predictor of epilepsy occurrence.
OTTOKAR DOMMA: A SATIRIST, BUT FOR OR AGAINST GDR SOCIALISM?
Authors: Frank Mary
Published: April 2020

Ottokar Domma was regarded as a children's author during the lifetime of the GDR, and continues to be seen as such today. This article argues that, while Domma's stories about the mischievous schoolboy Ottokar did appeal to GDR children, they should also be acknowledged as satirical. It further argues that this satire can be read in two ways, as regime‐supporting or regime‐critical. It first re‐locates the stories in their original context of publication in a regime‐supporting satirical magazine and shows that Ottokar's use of language, in particular, served the officially defined purposes of satire by alerting adult readers to their careless misunderstandings of socialism's priorities. It then interrogates Domma's self‐portrayal, the use of parallel literary forms for satirical purposes, and the stories’ themes to argue that the stories can alternatively, or additionally, be read as regime‐critical satire. It proposes that Domma was a far more ambiguous and multi‐faceted figure in the GDR literary and satirical landscape than was recognised during the lifetime of the GDR or has been recognised since. His ambivalent position is fruitful in prompting us to review and expand our understanding of the production and circulation of both official and unofficial satire in the GDR.
A Systematic Review of Interventions for Algebraic Concepts and Skills of Secondary Students with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Lee Jihyun , Bryant Diane Pedrotty , Ok Min Wook , Shin Mikyung
Published: April 2020

Improving the algebraic concepts and skills of secondary school students with learning disabilities is critical for their success in college and in the job market. This research reviewed 12 studies to examine interventions for students with learning disabilities in relation to algebraic notions and competencies. The results indicate that in regard to the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics (CCSSM) Content Standards, the majority of the studies address linear equations and expressions, linear inequalities, and quadratic expressions; they show that following interventions, students’ performance improved with respect to algebraic concepts and skills. The Tau‐U and Hedges’ g of the intervention effects computed were typically large or very large. The most commonly used instructional components in the interventions were multiple representations, a sequence and/or range of examples, and explicit instruction. Limitations and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Solving equations with fractions: An analysis of prospective teachers’ solution pathways and errors
Authors: Jones Dustin L. , Zientek Linda Reichwein , Sharon Valerie V. , Swarthout Mary B.
Published: April 2020

We analyzed the solution pathways and errors found in the written responses of 469 prospective teachers solving an equation containing fractions. The majority (332, or 70%) used an algebraic method; 141 of the 332 (42%) were correct, and 22% of the algebraic methods were abandoned before a solution was obtained. We identified the steps in the written solutions, determined which solution pathways led to the correct solution, and identified common errors in the solution pathways of respondents who incorrectly solved the equation. Respondents initially attempted different methods. The most common method was solving by using fractions, but the majority of respondents who solved by using mixed numbers were able to correctly solve the problem. Common errors related to fraction arithmetic and the distributive property. Nearly all of the abandoned pathways contained no errors, but ended with a step that likely would precede an operation with fractions. Our findings suggest that the ability to solve an arithmetic equation with no fractions was necessary, but not sufficient, to solve an arithmetic equation involving fractions, and that the problem of solving equations with fractions was more closely tied to one's difficulties with rational number arithmetic and less with one's understanding of algebra.
Involvement of Protein Kinase C inRickettsia rickettsii-Induced Transcriptional Activation of the Host Endothelial Cell
Authors: Sahni Sanjeev K. , Turpin Loel C. , Brown Tracy L. , Sporn Lee Ann
Published: April 2020

Our laboratory has reported on a biphasic pattern of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) activation in cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells during infection withRickettsia rickettsii, an obligate, intracellular bacterium, and the etiologic agent of Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Transcriptional activation of the tissue factor (TF) gene during this infection has been shown to involve NF-κB. To further understand the signal transduction events underlying these phenomena, we studied the role of protein kinase C (PKC), a ubiquitous family of phospholipid-dependent enzymes implicated in the regulation of a variety of cell signaling pathways. Two inhibitors of PKC, namely, bisindolylmaleimide I hydrochloride (BM-1) and calphostin C, which exhibit different inhibitory properties towards various isozymes of PKC, were used. Infection of cells withR. rickettsiiin the presence of BM-1 (50 nM) did not significantly affect NF-κB, whereas calphostin C (2.5 μM) completely blocked the early phase of NF-κB activation. The late, sustained phase also was not affected by treatment with BM-1. Downregulation of phorbol ester-sensitive PKCs by long-term treatment with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) did not inhibit NF-κB activation. Likewise, this downregulation had no effect on induction of TF activity. The activity of TF was, however, sensitive to BM-1 and calphostin C, whereas expression of TF mRNA was inhibited only by calphostin C. Overall, these results suggest the lack of involvement of classical PKC pathways inR. rickettsii-induced NF-κB activation but the possible involvement of a non-PMA-responsive PKC isoform in the posttranscriptional control of TF expression.
Cloning, Expression, Sequence Analysis, and Characterization of Streptokinases Secreted by Porcine and Equine Isolates of
Streptococcus equisimilis
Authors: Caballero Armando R. , Lottenberg Richard , Johnston Kenneth H.
Published: April 2020

Streptokinases secreted by nonhuman isolates of group C streptococci (
Streptococcus equi
,
S. equisimilis
, and
S. zooepidemicus
) have been shown to bind to different mammalian plasminogens but exhibit preferential plasminogen activity. The streptokinase genes from
S. equisimilis
strains which activated either equine or porcine plasminogen were cloned, sequenced, and expressed in
Escherichia coli
. The streptokinase secreted by the equine isolate had little similarity to any known streptokinases secreted by either human or porcine isolates. The streptokinase secreted by the porcine isolate had limited structural and functional similarities to streptokinases secreted by human isolates. Plasminogen activation studies with immobilized (His)
6
-tagged recombinant streptokinases indicated that these recombinant streptokinases interacted with plasminogen in a manner similar to that observed when streptokinase and plasminogen interact in the fluid phase. Analysis of the cleavage products of the streptokinase-plasminogen interaction indicated that human, equine, and porcine plasminogens were all cleaved at the same highly conserved site. The site at which streptokinase was cleaved to form altered streptokinase (Sk*) was also determined. This study confirmed not only the presence of streptokinases in nonhuman
S. equisimilis
isolates but also that these proteins belong to a family of plasminogen activators more diverse than previously thought.
Species Specificity of Plasminogen Activation and Acquisition of Surface-Associated Proteolytic Activity by Group C Streptococci Grown in Plasma
Authors: Schroeder Brett , Boyle Michael D. P. , Sheerin Barbara R. , Asbury Atwood C. , Lottenberg Richard
Published: April 2020

Our laboratory previously demonstrated that group C streptococcal isolates from humans and horses secrete streptokinases that preferentially activate plasminogens reflecting the origin of the isolates. To analyze the significance of these findings, series of streptokinase-producing
Streptococcus equisimilis
isolates recovered from humans and horses were examined. Southern blot analysis revealed that chromosomal DNA of the streptococcal isolates from humans reacted exclusively with a
skc
hu
probe and that chromosomal DNA of streptococcal isolates from horses reacted preferentially with an
skc
eq
probe in a distinct pattern. The streptococcal isolates were examined for the ability to acquire surface-bound plasmin-like activity when grown in the presence of human or equine plasma. Each of eight isolates from humans acquired significant enzymatic activity only when grown in the presence of human plasma, while each of eight isolates from horses acquired activity only when grown in the presence of equine plasma. Analysis of bacterial and host protein requirements indicated critical roles for streptokinase, activatable plasminogen, and fibrinogen. These requirements may explain why certain streptococcal isolates cause disease only in a limited number of mammalian hosts.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Ascomycete
Xylaria multiplex
DSM 110363
Authors: Büttner Enrico , Liers Christiane , Richter Anne , Hofrichter Martin , Kellner Harald
Published: April 2020

Xylaria multiplex
is an ascomycete fungus that causes soft rot and is often associated with wood. Here, we report a draft genome sequence with an assembly size of 45.6 Mbp, a G+C content of 46.9%, and 10,964 predicted genes, including 617 that encode carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes).
Complete Genome Sequence of Halomonas hydrothermalis Strain Slthf2, a Halophilic Bacterium Isolated from a Deep-Sea Hydrothermal-Vent Environment
Authors: Takeyama Naota , Huang Muyang , Sato Kensuke , Galipon Josephine , Arakawa Kazuharu
Published: April 2020

Halomonas hydrothermalis
strain Slthf2 is a Gram-negative bacterium isolated from low-temperature hydrothermal fluids in South Pacific Ocean vent fields located at 2,580-m depth. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of this strain, which has a genome size of 4.12 Mb, with a GC content of 53.2%.