bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancement effect of cumulative second-harmonic generation by closed propagation feature of circumferential guided waves*
Authors: Gao Guang-Jian , Deng Ming-Xi , Hu Ning , Xiang Yan-Xun
Published: December 2019

On the basis of second-order perturbation approximate and modal expansion approach, we investigate the enhancement effect of cumulative second-harmonic generation (SHG) of circumferential guided waves (CGWs) in a circular tube, which is inherently induced by the closed propagation feature of CGWs. An appropriate mode pair of primary- and double-frequency CGWs satisfying the phase velocity matching and nonzero energy flux is selected to ensure that the second harmonic generated by primary CGW propagation can accumulate along the circumference. Using a coherent superposition of multi-waves, a model of unidirectional CGW propagation is established for analyzing the enhancement effect of cumulative SHG of primary CGW mode selected. The theoretical analyses and numerical simulations performed directly demonstrate that the second harmonic generated does have a cumulative effect along the circumferential direction and the closed propagation feature of CGWs does enhance the magnitude of cumulative second harmonic generated. Potential applications of the enhancement effect of cumulative SHG of CGWs are considered and discussed. The theoretical analysis and numerical simulation perspective presented here yield an insight previously unavailable into the physical mechanism of the enhancement effect of cumulative SHG by closed propagation feature of CGWs in a circular tube.
Density functional investigation of oxygen reduction reaction on Pt3Pd alloy electrocatalyst
Authors: Sadeghian Shakiba , Jafari Mahmoud
Published: December 2019

We have investigated the surface structure and electronic properties of Pt segregated Pt3Pd (111) surface within the framework of density-functional theory. Surface adsorption of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) mediators including H, O, OH, O2, OOH, H2O2 and H2O and the related reaction pathways have then been thoroughly examined via determining the corresponding activation energies and reaction heats using climbing-image nudged elastic band (CI-NEB) calculations. It is found that the ORR preferably proceeds via OOH dissociation mechanism on the Pt3Pd (111) surface. Surface corrosion resistivity has also been investigated via evaluating the electrochemical potential shift of the surface Pt atoms. Results verify an enhanced stability against pure Pt (111) in the presence of an oxygen atom and nearly the same stability compared to clean pure Pt (111) surface.
Mechanical properties, corrosion behaviour and biocompatibility of TiNbTaSn for dentistry
Authors: Hybasek Vojtech , Fojt Jaroslav , Malek Jaroslav , Jablonska Eva , Pruchova Eva , Joska Ludek , Ruml Tomas
Published: December 2019

Titanium and the alloy Ti-6Al-4V are standard in implantology, despite the fact that the alloys may suffer from biomechanical incompatibility. The appropriate solution is the use of titanium β-alloys with a low modulus of elasticity and high strength. An additional advantage of these alloys is improved corrosion behaviour in environments that may contain fluoride ions, i.e. the oral cavity. Ti-25Nb-4Ta-(X)Sn alloys, where X is 4, 6, 8 and 10 weight per cent, were prepared. The phase composition, ultimate tensile strength, yield strength, Young modulus, elongation and hardness were measured. The corrosion behaviour in physiological saline, acidified physiological saline with and without the fluoride ions, was determined using, potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Bioactivity was predicted on the base of exposure in the simulated body fluid extended by impedance detection of the Ca/P layer formation. From the point of view of mechanical properties, alloys with a higher tin content are ideal for load-bearing applications. The corrosion resistance of these alloys in physiological saline is similar to titanium and significantly higher in the fluoride ions containing environment. The bioactivity test - exposure in SBF has shown quite identical results of the studied alloys and titanium, both in terms of kinetics and total composition of precipitated calcium-phosphate layer. Possible cytotoxicity effects were excluded by the exposure with murine fibroblasts. This study describes the mechanical properties and corrosion resistance in non-fluoride and fluoride containing media, predicts bioactivity and verifies non-cytotoxicity of new titanium alloys and demonstrates that they are a suitable substitute for currently the most widely used alloys (Ti-6Al-4V, Ti-6Al-7Nb) in terms of both mechanical properties and corrosion resistance for dental implants.
Towards an Integrative Methodological Approach of Film Remake Studies
Authors: Cuelenaere Eduard
Published: December 2019

This article argues that, after decades of pointing towards the importance of including production and reception research into the study of film remakes, we should actually start addressing production and reception methodologies and investigate why this is necessary for the sustainability and future development of the field. I argue that a lot can be learned from the insights coming from the existing methodologies that are being used in, that is, format studies, (critical) media industry studies, (audiovisual) translation studies, and more recently the study of cultural transduction. The first section of the article mainly deals with the importance of investigating the different cultural mediators that take part in the production lifecycle of the film remake. It is contended that the analysis of film remakes should start examining the different individuals or institutions that mediate or intervene between the production of cultural artefacts and the generation of consumer preferences. The second part of the article points towards the importance of investigating the reception, experience, and interpretation of film remakes. It is shown that crucial questions like ‘(why) do audiences prefer the domestic remake over the foreign film?’, ‘how do audiences experience, interpret, and explain differences and similarities between source films and remakes?’, but also ‘how do audiences define and assess film remakes?’ remain yet to be asked. The article concludes that if the field of remake studies wishes to break out of its disciplinary boundaries, adopting a multi-methodological approach will help to further brush off its dusty character of textual analysis.
Faecal Calprotectin for the Diagnosis of Bowel Inflammation in Patients With Rheumatological Diseases: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fauny Marine , D’Amico Ferdinando , Bonovas Stefanos , Netter Patrick , Danese Silvio , Loeuille Damien , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent
Published: December 2019

Background and Aims

Endoscopic and histological gut inflammation are present in half of patients with ankylosing spondylitis [AS] or spondyloarthritis [SpA]. We performed a systematic literature review on the use of faecal calprotectin [FC] in patients with rheumatic diseases.

Methods

Searches of the PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were performed up to September 2019 to identify all studies including adult patients with confirmed diagnosis of SpA or AS.

Results

Seven studies met the inclusion criteria: six prospective observational studies and one retrospective observational study. Study populations consisted of SpA patients in four studies and AS patients in three studies. In six studies, an ELISA test was used for FC levels and in one case, a semi-quantitative assay was adopted. In all included studies, patients with SpA or AS had elevated FC levels, ranging from 21.2% to 70.7% of patients. In six studies, patients with increased FC levels had macroscopic mucosal inflammation, ranging from 11% to 80% of cases. Four studies highlighted the presence of microscopic alterations in patients with high FC levels, ranging from 41.7% to 100% of patients. An FC cut-off level predicting the inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] occurrence was found in two studies: 266 mg/kg and 132 mg/kg, with sensitivity and specificity of 100%, 78.7% and 66.7%, 76.9%, respectively.

Conclusions

Faecal calprotectin is a useful and non-invasive marker to predict IBD in patients with SpA or AS. Gut histological and macroscopic mucosal inflammation were found in up to 100% and 80% of rheumatological patients with increased FC levels.
The effect of prenatal maternal physical activity and lifestyle in perinatal outcome: results from a Greek study
Authors: Babili Maria G , Amerikanou Charalampia , Papada Efstathia , Christopoulos Georgios , Tzavara Chara , Kaliora Andriana C
Published: December 2019

Background

Several maternal characteristics, including lifestyle, have been associated with perinatal outcomes and birth anthropometric characteristics of the offspring. This study aimed to identify whether physical activity (PA) and other lifestyle parameters of the mother are associated with the pregnancy outcomes or with the infant’s birth anthropometric characteristics.

Methods

Participants were recruited in Mitera Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece. Socio-demographic, medical history and anthropometric assessment took place. PA during pregnancy was assessed with the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire. Dietary assessment was conducted with the Food Frequency Questionnaire and adherence to the Mediterranean diet was evaluated with the MedDiet score. Birth weight and gestational age data were also collected.

Results

Sedentary-intensity activity scores increased with increased educational level, while moderate-intensity activity scores decreased with increased educational level. Pregnant women who delivered large for gestational age infants had lower sports activity score. Higher vigorous and sports activity score was demonstrated in cases with a vaginal delivery compared with caesarean section. PA score was significantly and positively correlated with several nutrient intakes and PA was higher in women with a healthier nutritional pattern. Increased MedDiet scores were found in mothers with increased educational level.

Conclusions

Overall, PA was higher in women with a healthier nutritional pattern. An increased vs. a low activity level during pregnancy is positively associated with vaginal delivery and with the size of the offspring.
Inferring Termite Colony Size Using Wood Consumption in Subterranean Termites (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae) in Laboratory-Rearing Conditions
Authors: Patel Jayshree S , Lee Sang-Bin , Chouvenc Thomas , Su Nan-Yao
Published: December 2019

Termite colony size can influence its foraging activity, reproductive maturity, and, for pest species, potential for structural damage. Estimating colony size of subterranean termite species in field conditions has been challenging owing to their extensive foraging territory and their cryptic nesting habit and has primarily relied on mark–recapture methods. With laboratory-reared colonies in individual containers, determining colony size can be achieved by processing all termites from the nest material, which can be labor intensive and partially destructive. However, with the recent rise in the need of large laboratory colonies for use in colony-wide experimental protocols, there was an imperative to develop a procedure to estimate initial colony sizes without imposing a major stress on colonies before an experiment. In this study, the average daily wood consumption of whole colonies was used to infer the colony size of two Coptotermes, Wasmann (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae) species and their hybrids in laboratory-rearing conditions. Correlations between the daily wood consumption and several demographic variables within colonies were established. Linear models varied across all species mating types with R2 values greater than 0.8 for all demographic variables. For colonies from all mating combinations, Pearson’s correlation coefficient values were greater than 0.94 between their daily wood consumption and both the number of workers and total number of termites, and greater than 0.91 between daily wood consumption and colony mass. Therefore, in colonies with fixed laboratory conditions, their average daily wood consumption determination, which is nondestructive on colonies, can be used to infer colony size of subterranean termites.
Purification of the Body and the Reign of God in the Gospel of Mark
Authors: Shively Elizabeth E
Published: December 2019

The thesis of this study is that the Markan Jesus’ activities of healing and exorcisms are evocative of resurrection of the body. Through the accumulation of these stories Mark communicates that Jesus has come to address the problem of human mortality in the light of the nearness of God’s reign. These activities anticipate Jesus’ resurrection from the dead, which pioneers the purification of the body at the turn of the ages. I show that Mark’s presentation of Jesus’ healings and exorcisms crucially reflects ideas of (im)purity in Jewish scripture and tradition that are bound up with mortality. In the light of this background, I show that Mark presents Jesus’ healings and exorcisms as anticipations of his bodily resurrection. These resurrection-type stories depict the movement from the mortality incurred by defiling diseases or defiling spirits to the immortality of God’s reign. The repetition of resurrection-type healings that eventually culminate in Jesus’ own resurrection suggests that the announcement of God’s reign is not only about responding to the call for repentance from sin (1:14–15), but also about having one’s body raised. Thus, Mark presents not only a theology of the cross, but also a theology of the resurrection as the purification of God’s people.
ZRANB2 and SYF2-mediated splicing programs converging on ECT2 are involved in breast cancer cell resistance to doxorubicin
Authors: Tanaka Iris , Chakraborty Alina , Saulnier Olivier , Benoit-Pilven Clara , Vacher Sophie , Labiod Dalila , Lam Eric W F , Bièche Ivan , Delattre Olivier , Pouzoulet Frédéric , Auboeuf Didier , Vagner Stéphan , Dutertre Martin
Published: December 2019

Besides analyses of specific alternative splicing (AS) variants, little is known about AS regulatory pathways and programs involved in anticancer drug resistance. Doxorubicin is widely used in breast cancer chemotherapy. Here, we identified 1723 AS events and 41 splicing factors regulated in a breast cancer cell model of acquired resistance to doxorubicin. An RNAi screen on splicing factors identified the little studied ZRANB2 and SYF2, whose depletion partially reversed doxorubicin resistance. By RNAi and RNA-seq in resistant cells, we found that the AS programs controlled by ZRANB2 and SYF2 were enriched in resistance-associated AS events, and converged on the ECT2 splice variant including exon 5 (ECT2-Ex5+). Both ZRANB2 and SYF2 were found associated with ECT2 pre-messenger RNA, and ECT2-Ex5+ isoform depletion reduced doxorubicin resistance. Following doxorubicin treatment, resistant cells accumulated in S phase, which partially depended on ZRANB2, SYF2 and the ECT2-Ex5+ isoform. Finally, doxorubicin combination with an oligonucleotide inhibiting ECT2-Ex5 inclusion reduced doxorubicin-resistant tumor growth in mouse xenografts, and high ECT2-Ex5 inclusion levels were associated with bad prognosis in breast cancer treated with chemotherapy. Altogether, our data identify AS programs controlled by ZRANB2 and SYF2 and converging on ECT2, that participate to breast cancer cell resistance to doxorubicin.
Hermitizing the HAL QCD potential in the derivative expansion
Authors: Aoki Sinya , Iritani Takumi , Yazaki Koichi
Published: December 2019

A formalism is given to hermitize the HAL QCD potential, which needs to be non-Hermitian except for the leading-order (LO) local term in the derivative expansion as the Nambu– Bethe– Salpeter (NBS) wave functions for different energies are not orthogonal to each other. It is shown that the non-Hermitian potential can be hermitized order by order to all orders in the derivative expansion. In particular, the next-to-leading order (NLO) potential can be exactly hermitized without approximation. The formalism is then applied to a simple case of $\Xi \Xi (^{1}S_{0}) $ scattering, for which the HAL QCD calculation is available to the NLO. The NLO term gives relatively small corrections to the scattering phase shift and the LO analysis seems justified in this case. We also observe that the local part of the hermitized NLO potential works better than that of the non-Hermitian NLO potential. The Hermitian version of the HAL QCD potential is desirable for comparing it with phenomenological interactions and also for using it as a two-body interaction in many-body systems.
A new lineage of segmented RNA viruses infecting animals
Authors: Obbard Darren J , Shi Mang , Roberts Katherine E , Longdon Ben , Dennis Alice B
Published: December 2019

Metagenomic sequencing has revolutionised our knowledge of virus diversity, with new virus sequences being reported faster than ever before. However, virus discovery from metagenomic sequencing usually depends on detectable homology: without a sufficiently close relative, so-called ‘dark’ virus sequences remain unrecognisable. An alternative approach is to use virus-identification methods that do not depend on detecting homology, such as virus recognition by host antiviral immunity. For example, virus-derived small RNAs have previously been used to propose ‘dark’ virus sequences associated with the Drosophilidae (Diptera). Here, we combine published Drosophila data with a comprehensive search of transcriptomic sequences and selected meta-transcriptomic datasets to identify a completely new lineage of segmented positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses that we provisionally refer to as the Quenyaviruses. Each of the five segments contains a single open reading frame, with most encoding proteins showing no detectable similarity to characterised viruses, and one sharing a small number of residues with the RNA-dependent RNA polymerases of single- and double-stranded RNA viruses. Using these sequences, we identify close relatives in approximately 20 arthropods, including insects, crustaceans, spiders, and a myriapod. Using a more conserved sequence from the putative polymerase, we further identify relatives in meta-transcriptomic datasets from gut, gill, and lung tissues of vertebrates, reflecting infections of vertebrates or of their associated parasites. Our data illustrate the utility of small RNAs to detect viruses with limited sequence conservation, and provide robust evidence for a new deeply divergent and phylogenetically distinct RNA virus lineage.
Control of Pseudomonas amygdali pv. loropetali on Metal, Wood, and Loropetalum chinense Stem Surfaces
Authors: Copes Warren E. , Mavrodi Olga V. , Mavrodi Dmitri V.
Published: December 2019

Clorox Germicidal Bleach, Cuproxat, Green-Shield II, KleenGrow, Virkon S, and ZeroTol 2.0 were evaluated for their ability to inactivate Pseudomonas amygdali pv. loropetali on stainless steel (SS), pressure-treated wood (PtW), and loropetalum stem sections. Clorox at 11% product and Virkon S at 1.0% product eliminated P. amygdali pv. loropetali on SS surfaces and nearly eliminated it on PtW surfaces. Green-Shield II at 0.5% product and KleenGrow at 0.8% product nearly eliminated the bacterium on SS, while causing a significant reduction without elimination on PtW. Cuproxat and ZeroTol 2.0 were not effective against this bacterium in these applications. Clorox and KleenGrow were evaluated further for their ability to kill P. amygdali pv. loropetali on loropetalum stems, which was used as a preliminary surrogate for vegetative stem cuttings. Only Clorox eliminated bacteria from stem surfaces, but the bacterial inoculum level appeared to affect efficacy. Several disinfestants are commercially available that kill P. amygdali pv. loropetali on production surfaces.
Med-Match: An Interactive Game to Learn Medications for Clinical Practice
Authors: Raines✝ Deborah A.
Published: December 2019

Knowing medications and their use in patient care is a component of safe practice. The Med-Match game transforms learning medications from a solitary task to an interactive activity. Educational games create real-life scenarios in a safe, context-rich environment without real-world consequences. Gaming is a form of active learning; learning occurs as a result of student-to-student interaction, peer feedback, and faculty debriefing. Although this activity was initially developed for nursing students, it can also be used with new RNs being oriented to a clinical setting or as an annual review for experienced nurses.
Integrating a Reflective Learning Activity to Ensure Quality Improvement Project Success
Authors: Davey Christine Horvat , Dolansky Mary A. , Harris Andrew T. , Singh Mamta K.
Published: December 2019

This article describes a brief learning activity that provided reflective time to identify barriers, facilitators, and action steps to ensure quality improvement (QI) project success. Learners from our program participated in an interactive 90-minute session that used Liberating Structures to reflect on current barriers to implementation of their QI projects. Analysis of the individual reflective cards identified 10 barriers to QI success. Facilitators were grouped into 16 themes. Action steps were placed into six categories. Integration of reflection promotes important identification of QI project barriers, facilitators, and the creation of action steps.
The effect of bone cement distribution on clinical efficacy after percutaneous kyphoplasty for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures
Authors: He Shuangjun , Zhang Yijian , Lv Nanning , Wang Shujin , Wang Yaowei , Wu Shuhua , He Fan , Chen Angela , Qian Zhonglai , Chen Jianhong
Published: December 2019

To evaluate the influence of various distributions of bone cement on the clinical efficacy of percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) in treating osteoporotic vertebrae compression fractures.

A total of 201 OVCF patients (30 males and 171 females) who received PKP treatment in our hospital were enrolled in this study. According to the characteristic of cement distribution, patients were divided into 2 groups: group A (“H” shaped group), the filling pattern in vertebral body were 2 briquettes and connected with / without cement bridge; and group B (“O” shaped group), the filling pattern in vertebral body was a complete crumb and without any separation. Bone mineral density, volume of injected cement, radiographic parameters, and VAS scores were recorded and analyzed between the 2 groups.

All patients finished at least a 1-year follow-up and both groups had significant improvement in radiographic parameters and clinical results. No significant differences in BMD, operation time, bleeding volume, or leakage of cement were observed between the 2 groups. Compared with group B, group A had a larger use of bone cement, lower proportion of unipedicular approach, and better VAS scores at 1 year after surgery.

Both “H” and “O” shaped distribution pattern can improve radiographic data and clinical outcomes effectively. However, “H” shaped distribution can achieve better clinical recovery at short-term follow-up.
Efficacy and safety of tripterygium glycosides for Graves ophthalmopathy
Authors: Liu Xiaowei , Gao Chenghan , Liu Xiaolin , Gao Tianshu
Published: December 2019

Background:

Graves ophthalmopathy (GO) is one of the remaining enigmas in thyroidology. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are strongly recommended but their effects are not completely satisfactory and adverse reactions can occur. Tripterygium glycosides (TG) is a promising component extracted from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (TwHF), and numerous patients with GO have benefited from it. However, its practical application value is still unclear. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the efficacy and safety of TG for patients with GO.

Methods:

By retrieving the PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP, CBM, and WanFang Databases, the open published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) related to TG in the treatment of GO were collected. And inclusion and exclusion criteria were established. The Cochrane bias risk assessment tool conducts the evaluation of included studies, and meta-analysis was performed using Revman 5.3 software.

Trial registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42019131915.

Results:

A total of 19 trials (involving 1517 GO patients) were included in this review with generally acceptable validity of included RCTs. TG therapy brought about a significantly higher efficacy rate compared with non-TG treatments (RR: 1.40; 95% CI: 1.31–1.49). Subgroup meta-analysis showed that TG with or without immunosuppressive therapies were all better than controls: with GC (RR: 1.36; 95% CI: 1.27–1.46), with multiple intensification of immunosuppressive therapies (RR: 1.91; 95% CI: 1.37–2.67), with no immunosuppressive therapies (RR: 1.39; 95% CI:1.21–1.59); the dosage of TG for 15–60 mg/d (RR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.30–1.53) were better compared with for ≥90 mg/d (RR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.29–1.68); the course of treatment for ≤3 months (RR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.33–1.52) was better than controls, but when >3 months (RR: 1.15; 95% CI: 0.94–1.41) there was no significant differences. After treatment, the degree of exophthalmus (SMD: −2.55; 95% CI: −2.93 to 2.17), the recurrence rate of 1 year (RR: 0.45; 95% CI: 0.27–0.74), and adverse reactions rate (RR: 0.32; 95% CI: 0.20–0.53) were all lower, while the CAS was no obvious gap in 2 groups (SMD: 0.08; 95% CI: −0.60 to 0.75).

Conclusions:

This review found that TG has some advantages in treating GO, especially in improving clinical efficacy and reducing adverse reactions. Nevertheless, large sample, multi-center, reasonable design, and high quality clinical studies are still needed for further verification.
A traditional Chinese patent medicine—Suhuang zhike capsule for cough variant asthma in adults
Authors: Wang Jianxin , Sun Rui , Wang Ruiyin , Han Jing , Zhang Shuhua , Yin Zetao , Han Zelu , Nong Ying , Lin Jiangtao
Published: December 2019

Background:

Many people with cough variant asthma use Traditional Chinese Patent Medicine-Suhuang anti-tussive capsule to help reduce symptoms. However there is no systematic reviews had promising its efficacy and safety for cough variant asthma.

Methods:

Four English databases (PubMed, Web of science, EMBASE, and Springer Cochrane Library) and 4 Chinese databases (Wanfang Database, Chinese Scientific Journal Database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database) were researched for the randomized controlled trials of Suhuang anti-tussive capsule for cough variant asthma. The search was limited to human studies, using the search keywords or free-text terms “cough,” “cough variant asthma,” “Suhuang Zhike capsul,”“Suhuang anti-tussive capsul,” and “randomized clinical trials.” Two reviewers individually extracted data from the included randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Data will be synthesized by either the fixed-effects or random-effects model according to a heterogeneity test. The primary outcomes include the frequency of asthma exacerbations during follow-up, asthmatic symptoms by validated instruments (including symptom scores, Likert scale, visual analogue scale). Lung function, serum immunoglobulin E, blood eosinophil count, phlegm eosinophil count, tumor necrosis factor-a, interleukin-1b, and adverse effects (numbers of participants experiencing each adverse events) will be assessed as the secondary outcome. Meta-analysis will be performed using RevMan5.3.5 software provided by the Cochrane Collaboration.

Results:

This study will provide high-quality synthesis based on current evidence of Suhuang anti-tussive capsule treatment for cough variant asthma.

Conclusion:

This analysis will provide updated evidence for whether Suhuang anti-tussive capsule is an effective and safe intervention for cough variant asthma.

PROSPERO registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42019139695.
Resection might be a meaningful choice for hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein thrombosis
Authors: Zhang Zun-Yi , Dong Ke-Shuai , Zhang Er-Lei , Zhang Li-Wei , Chen Xiao-Ping , Dong Han-Hua
Published: December 2019

Background:

According to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system, the presence of portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT) is considered to indicate an advanced stage of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with nearly no cure. Hepatic resection and transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) have recently been recommended for treatment of HCC with PVTT.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review to compare the overall survival between patients with HCC and PVTT undergoing hepatectomy, TACE or conservative treatment including sorafenib chemotherapy. The PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases were searched. All relevant studies were considered. Hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals were calculated for comparison of the cumulative overall survival. Ten retrospective studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review.

Results:

Overall survival was not higher in the hepatectomy group than TACE group. But survival rate was higher in hepatectomy group than conservative group. The subgroup analysis demonstrated that hepatectomy was superior in patients without PVTT in the main trunk than in patients with main portal vein invasion. In patients without main PVTT, hepatectomy has showed more benefit than TACE. However, there has been no significant difference between the hepatectomy and TACE groups among patients with main PVTT.

Conclusion:

For patients with resectable HCC and PVTT, hepatectomy might be more effective in patients without PVTT in the main trunk than TACE or conservative treatment.
Laparoscopic diagnosis and extraction of an ingested fish bone that penetrated the stomach
Authors: Zhang Zhi , Wang Gang , Gu Zhigang , Qiu Jie , Wu Chuanfu , Wu Jianzhong , Huang Weixian , Shen Genhai , Qian Zhenghai
Published: December 2019

Rationale:

Foreign body ingestion is a common clinical event, but serious complication such as perforation is uncommon. Here we present a case of gastrointestinal perforation caused by fish bone, which was treated effectively and successfully by totally laparoscopic management.

Patient concerns:

A 63-year-old man who was admitted to our hospital with epigastric pain for 1 month. Computed tomography of the abdomen at the local hospital revealed a linear, hyperdense, foreign body in the lesser curvature of gastric antrum that had penetrated through the posterior wall of the gastric antrum.

Diagnosis:

The laparoscopic exploration found that a 2.5 cm × 0.3 cm fish bone had penetrated through the posterior wall of the gastric antrum.

Interventions:

A totally laparoscopic surgery was performed to remove the foreign body and repair the perforation eventually.

Outcomes:

After surgery, the patient underwent uneventful recovery and was discharged on postoperative day 7. During the 3 months of follow-up visit, the patient appeared healthy and did not report abdominal symptoms.

Lessons:

In this case, the advantages of laparoscopic techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal perforation caused by foreign body was confirmed, and which may be considered as the primary choice in similar cases.
The gut microbiome as a predictor of low fermentable oligosaccharides disaccharides monosaccharides and polyols diet efficacy in functional bowel disorders
Authors: Chumpitazi Bruno P.
Published: December 2019

Purpose of review

Fermentable oligosaccharides disaccharides monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAP) dietary restriction ameliorates irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms; however, not all individuals with IBS respond. Given the gut microbiome's role in carbohydrate fermentation, investigators have evaluated whether the gut microbiome may predict low FODMAP diet efficacy.

Recent findings

Gut microbiome fermentation, even to the same carbohydrate, is not uniform across all individuals with several factors (e.g. composition) playing a role. In both children and adults with IBS, studies are emerging suggesting the gut microbiome may predict low FODMAP diet efficacy. However, there is significant heterogeneity in the approaches (study population, microbiome assessment methods, statistical techniques, etc.) used amongst these studies.

The gut microbiome holds promise as a predictor of low FODMAP diet efficacy. However, further investigation using standardized approaches to evaluate the microbiome while concomitantly assessing other potential predictors are needed to more rigorously evaluate this area.
Refinement of organic crystal structures with multipolar electron scattering factors
Authors: Gruza Barbara , Chodkiewicz Michał Leszek , Krzeszczakowska Joanna , Dominiak Paulina Maria
Published: December 2019

A revolution in resolution is occurring now in electron microscopy arising from the development of methods for imaging single particles at cryogenic temperatures and obtaining electron diffraction data from nanocrystals of small organic molecules or macromolecules. Near-atomic or even atomic resolution of molecular structures can be achieved. The basis of these methods is the scattering of an electron beam due to the electrostatic potential of the sample. To analyse these high-quality experimental data, it is necessary to use appropriate atomic scattering factors. The independent atom model (IAM) is commonly used although various more advanced models, already known from X-ray diffraction, can also be applied to enhance the analysis. In this study a comparison is presented of IAM and TAAM (transferable aspherical atom model), the latter with the parameters of the Hansen–Coppens multipole model transferred from the University at Buffalo Databank (UBDB). By this method, TAAM takes into account the fact that atoms in molecules are partially charged and are not spherical. Structure refinements were performed on a carbamazepine crystal using electron structure-factor amplitudes determined experimentally [Jones et al. (2018). ACS Cent. Sci.
4, 1587–1592] or modelled with theoretical quantum-mechanical methods. The results show the possibilities and limitations of the TAAM method when applied to electron diffraction. Among others, the method clearly improves model fitting statistics, when compared with IAM, and allows for reliable refinement of atomic thermal parameters. The improvements are more pronounced with poorer-resolution diffraction data.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of (E)-3-(3-iodophenyl)-1-(4-iodophenyl)prop-2-en-1-one
Authors: Spruce Kieran J. , Hall Charlie L. , Potticary Jason , Pridmore Natalie E. , Cremeens Matthew E. , D'ambruoso Gemma D. , Matsumoto Masaomi , Warren Gabrielle I. , Warren Stephen D. , Hall Simon R.
Published: December 2019

The title compound, C15H10I2O, is a halogenated chalcone formed from two iodine substituted rings, one para-substituted and the other meta-substituted, linked through a prop-2-en-1-one spacer. In the molecule, the mean planes of the 3-iodophenyl and the 4-iodophenyl groups are twisted by 46.51 (15)°. The calculated electrostatic potential surfaces show the presence of σ-holes on both substituted iodines. In the crystal, the molecules are linked through type II halogen bonds, forming a sheet structure parallel to the bc plane. Between the sheets, weak intermolecular C—H...π interactions are observed. Hirshfeld surface analysis showed that the most significant contacts in the structure are C...H/H...C (31.9%), followed by H...H (21.4%), I...H/H...I (18.4%). I...I (14.5%) and O...H/H...O (8.1%).
San Antonio: Revisando el sistema de gestión de cuentas clave
Authors: Silva Javier Jorge O. , Zerboni Fernando , Prado Maricruz , Moscardi Natalia
Published: December 2019

Supplementary materials

Nota técnica: “Una mirada cercana a la gestión de cuentas clave en las empresas actuales”, preparada por los profesores Javier Silva, Fernando Zerboni, Martín Zemborain y la asistente de investigación Maricruz Prado, IAE Business School, Universidad Austral, septiembre de 2007. Apoyo audiovisual con la entrevista a Carlos Etcheverry.

Learning outcomes

Este caso puede resultar útil para: Entender la complejidad de la implementación de un sistema de gestión de cuentas clave (KAM), entender los conceptos de fuerza de ventas y las relaciones entre empresas. Analizar las dificultades que enfrentan las empresas al implementar un cambio en sus estrategias de venta y los efectos de este cambio en: la fuerza de ventas, la cultura corporativa, la organización en general, los sistemas administrativos.

Case overview/synopsis

En 2003, después de que Carlos Etcheverry se unió a San Antonio (SA) como vicepresidente regional para Latinoamérica, la compañía implementó un sistema KAM. Las relaciones de SA con sus dos clientes clave, Vintage y Chevron, parecían estar progresando bien hasta mediados de 2004, cuando el nuevo gerente de compras de Chevron decidió cambiar la estructura comercial de la compañía, volviendo su proceso de compras más burocrático y extremadamente competitivo. En marzo de 2005, Etcheverry debía reunirse con el gerente de compras de Chevron, puesto que dicha empresa había decidido reasignar un contrato de servicios mediante una licitación, dejando a San Antonio por fuera. El caso plantea las preguntas que Etcheverry enfrentó en el momento de la reunión: ¿Cómo había llegado San Antonio a poner en riesgo una cuenta clave? ¿Necesitaría un cambio la organización de SA? ¿Esta era la única solución disponible? ¿Qué otros factores había que considerar? Estas preguntas buscan llevar a los estudiantes a considerar cómo se podrían evitar o anticipar estos problemas, y a analizar diferentes tipos de sistemas KAM.

Complexity academic level

Se puede usar para cursos de segundo año de programas de mercadeo de MBA, así como en programas específicos de educación ejecutiva que traten temas de sistemas de gestión de cuentas clave (KAM), estrategias de negocios, mercadeo industrial y/o cursos de gestión de ventas. Este caso también se puede usar a nivel de pregrado y en cursos sobre ventas, gestión de ventas, negocios internacionales y conducta organizacional.

Subject code

CSS 8: Marketing
Analysis of bioconvection in the suspension of Maxwell nanoparticles with gyrotactic microorganisms
Authors: Khan S.U. , Shehzad Sabir Ali , Ali N.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

An increment in energy efficiency by employing nanoparticles is a hot topic of research in present era due to its abundant implications in modern engineering and technological processes. Therefore, the current research analysis reported the viscoelastic nanofluid flow over porous oscillatory moving sheet in the presence of microorganisms. A rate-type fluid namely Maxwell fluid is employed with the addition of nanoparticles. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

First, acceptable dimensionless variables are defined to convert the system of dimensional form into the system of dimensionless forms. Later on, the self-similar solution of the boundary value problem is computed by using the homotopy analysis method. The obtained results of velocity, temperature, mass concentration and motile microorganism density profiles are interpreted through physical background.

Findings

The presence of both thermophoresis and Brownian motion parameters also improve the thermophysical features of non-Newtonian nanoparticles. It is also pointed out that the presence of porous medium and magnetic force enhances the nanoparticles concentration. Moreover, a weaker distribution of gyrotactic microorganism has been depicted with Peclet number and bioconvection Lewis parameter.

Originality/value

No such article exists in the literature yet.
GameStop’s next play: reconfiguring the value offering
Authors: Bass A. Erin , Pleggenkuhle-Miles Erin G. , Winchester Christopher C. , West Thomas
Published: December 2019

Theoretical basis

The theoretical basis for this case is a focus on strategic positioning as related to Porter’s generic strategies. The case describes GameStop’s previous differentiation approach, executed through physical stores and knowledgeable staff. With technological shifts and the introduction of digital downloads, this strategy is less effective. The case requires students to consider how GameStop might revise its generic strategy based on the new competitive landscape in which it operates.

Research methodology

In writing this case, the research team conducted thorough analysis through primary data collection in stores as well as secondary data collection through the use of market research tools, such as IBIS World, MergentOnline, S&P Net Advantage, and academic journals, trade magazines, and websites.

Case overview/synopsis

With high uncertainty shown by stakeholders about the future of GameStop coupled with falling share prices, the company must find a way to stay in play given the rapidly growing digital gaming market. As it planned to close at least 150 of its 7,500 stores, the company was starting to take measures to reduce operational costs and restructure to sectors that best fit consumer interests. GameStop’s core competencies were no longer aligned with market conditions, and its executives were now questioning where it could expand the organization’s operations as they focused on finding untapped areas of the market that have an opportunity for a new competitive advantage. Given its unique market share in gaming memorabilia and trade-in values, students are tasked with finding GameStop’s existing competitive advantages or identifying potential new ones that can be leveraged in a technology-driven industry.

Complexity academic level

This case could be taught at either the graduate or undergraduate level strategy course. At the undergraduate level, it would be best taught when discussing industry life cycle or competitive dynamics. At the graduate level, MBAs could discuss competitive dynamics facing GameStop and how it might find areas for future strategic growth.
Nonstationary deconvolution using maximum kurtosis optimization
Authors: Jamali Javad , Javaherian Abdorrahim
Published: December 2019

Deconvolution is an essential step for high‐resolution imaging in seismic data processing. The frequency and phase of the seismic wavelet change through time during wave propagation as a consequence of seismic absorption. Therefore, wavelet estimation is the most vital step of deconvolution, which plays the main role in seismic processing and inversion. Gabor deconvolution is an effective method to eliminate attenuation effects. Since Gabor transform does not prepare the information about the phase, minimum‐phase assumption is usually supposed to estimate the phase of the wavelet. This manner does not return the optimum response where the source wavelet would be dominantly a mixed phase. We used the kurtosis maximization algorithm to estimate the phase of the wavelet. First, we removed the attenuation effect in the Gabor domain and computed the amplitude spectrum of the source wavelet; then, we rotated the seismic trace with a constant phase to reach the maximum kurtosis. This procedure was repeated in moving windows to obtain the time‐varying phase changes. After that, the propagating wavelet was generated to solve the inversion problem of the convolutional model. We showed that the assumption of minimum phase does not reflect a suitable response in the case of mixed‐phase wavelets. Application of this algorithm on synthetic and real data shows that subtle reflectivity information could be recovered and vertical seismic resolution is significantly improved.
Genetic analysis and molecular detection of resistance to chlorpyrifos mediated by the A216S substitution in acetylcholinesterase‐1 in the plant bug Apolygus lucorum
Authors: Zuo Kai‐Ran , Yang Yi‐Hua , Wu Yi‐Dong , Wu Shu‐Wen
Published: December 2019

The green plant bug Apolygus lucorum is a major pest of Bacillus thuringiensis cotton in China. Previously, we reported that chlorpyrifos resistance in a laboratory‐selected strain of A. lucorum (BZ‐R) is associated with the homozygosis of an allele in the ace‐1 gene encoding an alanine to serine substitution at position 216 of acetylcholinesterase‐1. Here we describe the results of crosses between the resistant BZ‐R strain (41‐fold to chlorpyrifos) and the unselected susceptible BZ‐S strain homozygous for the wild type alanine allele at position 216. Resistance to chlorpyrifos was inherited as a semi‐dominant trait mainly controlled by a single autosomal gene and co‐segregates strongly but not completely with the serine substitution in ace‐1. Synergism bioassays and enzyme assays showed that minor contributions to resistance are also made by enhanced cytochrome P450 and carboxylesterase activities. A survey of 25 field populations from five Chinese provinces showed strong positive correlations between 50% lethal concentration against chlorpyrifos and S216 allele and genotype frequencies, although the most tolerant populations still only show 40%–50% S216 allele frequencies. The results above provide important information for designing effective resistance monitoring and management strategies for A. lucorum in China.
The effect of insect herbivory on seed production of Lupinus nootkatensis, an introduced species in Iceland
Authors: Hrafnkelsdottir Brynja , Sigurdsson Bjarni D. , Oddsdottir Edda S. , Sverrisson Halldor , Halldorsson Gudmundur
Published: December 2019

Lupinus nootkatensis is an exotic plant species that has been used for large‐scale sowing all around Iceland for land reclamation of eroded surfaces protected from livestock grazing.

Until the early 1990s, L. nootkatensis was free from any significant arthropod herbivory in Iceland, whereas, after 1991, many outbreaks of native insect species, primarily Ceramica pisi and Eupithecia satyrata, have been recorded. These outbreaks have caused repeated total defoliation of extensive areas of L. nootkatensis, although the effects on its development are mostly unknown.

We studied the effect of: (i) reduced herbivory; (ii) increased herbivory; and (iii) simulated increased herbivory, compared with (iv) unmanipulated herbivory, on defoliation and seed production of L. nootkatensis in a 3‐year field study within two sites at contrasting ages and successional stages.

The results obtained showed that: (i) seed production across all treatments was negatively related to defoliation; (ii) reduced herbivory had a positive effect on the number of flowering stems and seed yield; and (iii) these effects depended on age and/or the successional stage because they were only significant in the older L. nootkatensis site.

These findings indicate that arthropod herbivory may affect the invasiveness of L. nootkatensis in Iceland by reducing the seed production and the spatial distribution rate of late successional lupin communities.
Effort Self‐Talk Benefits the Mathematics Performance of Children With Negative Competence Beliefs
Authors: Thomaes Sander , Tjaarda Iris Charlotte , Brummelman Eddie , Sedikides Constantine
Published: December 2019

Children with negative competence beliefs often achieve below their potential in school. This randomized field experiment tested whether engaging in positive self‐talk may benefit these children’s mathematics performance. Participants (N = 212, Grades 4–6, Mage = 10.6) worked on the first half of a standardized mathematics test, engaged in effort self‐talk (“I will do my very best!”), ability self‐talk (“I am very good at this!”), or no self‐talk, and worked on the second half of the test. Compared to both the conditions, effort self‐talk benefited the performance of children holding negative competence beliefs: It severed the association between negative competence beliefs and poor performance. By internally asserting that they will deliver effort, children with negative competence beliefs can optimize their achievement in school.