bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suprapubic pressure facilitates the procedure of office hysteroscopy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Török Péter , Herman Tünde , Lőrincz Judit , Molnár Szabolcs , Lampé Rudolf , Póka Róbert
Published: October 2018

Aim

To minimize the experienced pain during office hysteroscopy, a number of technical approaches and maneuvers are used. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of suprapubic pressure (SuPuP) applied during hysteroscopy. The impact of this maneuver on experienced pain (assessed by visual analog scale [VAS]) and duration of passage through the cervical canal was measured and compared to a reference group with no SuPuP.

Methods

Hysteroscopy was performed in study subjects as part of their infertility work‐up. Patients were randomized into two groups as part of a controlled trial. In group 1, SuPuP was applied while inserting the scope; in group 2, SuPuP was not applied. Pain experienced during the procedure was measured on a 0–10 VAS. Duration of passage through the cervical canal was measured by analyzing the video of the procedure. The effect of SuPuP was estimated by testing for between‐groups differences in these outcomes.

Results

The number of patients included the study was 60. Mean (SD) VAS score was 3.40 (1.276) in group 1 compared to 3.33 (0.802) in group 2 (P = 0.809). Mean (SD) time of passage through the cervical canal in group 1 was 30.5 (18.37) seconds compared to 43.0 (24.51) seconds in group 2 (P = 0.029).

Conclusion

Applying suprapubic pressure could facilitate the procedure by significantly shortening the duration of the passage through the cervical canal, but significantly not reduces the pain experienced during hysteroscopy. Further studies are to be undertaken to investigate the advantages of suprapubic pressure during office hysteroscopy.
Total tooth loss without denture wear is a risk indicator for difficulty eating among older adults with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Mac Giolla Phadraig Caoimhin , Nunn June , McCallion Philip , Donnelly‐Swift Erica , van Harten Maria , McCarron Mary
Published: October 2018

Objectives

This study tests whether total tooth loss is a risk indicator for difficulty eating among a population with intellectual disability and whether complete denture wear mediates this risk.

Methods

Dentate status and difficulty eating were reported for a Nationally representative sample of 690 adults over forty with intellectual disabilities as part of The Intellectual Disability Supplement to The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (IDS‐TILDA). A logistic regression model tested the relationship between theDifficulty eatingandDentate status, controlling for the effects of other factors.

Results

Of the 690 participants, 505 had some teeth (Group 1), 56 had no teeth and reported wearing dentures (Group 2) and 129 had no teeth, not using dentures (Group 3). A parsimonious regression model was developed including all 406 cases with no missing data. Adjusting for the effects of other factors, it was found that, compared to Group 1, the odds of difficulty eating was twice as great (OR = 2.01, 95% CI = 1.02‐4.03) among people without teeth, not using dentures (Group 3). Conversely, edentulous participants who had dentures (Group 2) had far lower odds (OR = 0.21, 95% CI = 0.06‐0.64) of reporting difficulty eating compared with Group 1.

Conclusions

For adults with ID, total tooth loss was predictive of difficulty eatingonlywhen untreated. People with disabilities should be encouraged to maintain a functional dentition through preventive and conservative treatment. When adults with ID become edentulous, oral rehabilitation may reduce the risk of difficulty eating. Dental assessment should be undertaken if people with ID present with difficulty eating.
Population growth: A pure welfarist approach
Authors: Renström Thomas I. , Spataro Luca
Published: October 2018

In this study we propose a framework based on welfarist principles to deal with several issues concerned with population economics models, such as the Repugnant Conclusion, both in absolute and relative sense, the shape of childbearing costs and population dynamics, under both normative and positive perspectives. We show that the relative critical level criterion can avoid both the assumption of high childbearing costs and the absolute repugnant conclusion (ARC) but cannot avoid the relative repugnant conclusion (RRC). Moreover, optimal fertility is increased by technological shocks and displays cycles. Both ARC and RRC can be avoided by extending the model to a decentralized economy with consumption externalities; in the latter model, a technological shock reduces long‐run fertility and can generate cycles along the transitional path.
Rabbit metabolic response and selected meat quality traits: Evaluation of dietary PLX®23 and LycoBeads®feed supplement
Authors: Palazzo Marisa , Schiavitto Michele , Cinone Mario , Vizzarri Francesco
Published: October 2018

Effects of dietary supplementation of verbascoside and lycopene, alone and in combination, on some blood parameters, plasma oxidative status and meat quality traits in intensively reared rabbits were investigated. The test lasted 60 days and was conducted on 200 weaned‐rabbits, divided into four groups of 50 animals each (5 animals each cage × 10 repetitions). The control group (CON) received a fattening feed without any feed supplements, whereas the experimental groups received the following: the first, an integration in 22 g of PLX®23 (Lippia citriodoraextract; VB group) per ton of feed; the second, an integration in 100 g of LycoBeads®(Solanum lycopersicumextract; LIC group) per ton of feed; and the third, an integration of both feed supplements in combination at the same doses (LIC+VB group). The dietary supplementation withLippia citriodoraandSolanum lycopersicumresulted in an improvement of the blood lipid profile, oxidative plasma markers, and hepatic and renal activity of treated growing rabbits. Feed additives also produced meat with a lower content in SFA and an increased PUFA content, and inhibited the lipid oxidation improving the oxidative stability of rabbit meat. The dietary supplementation, even reporting no effects on productive parameters and carcass yield, showed an improvement on several blood parameters, as indicator of animal welfare, and on quality and healthy meat markers.
Polyphasic approach using multilocus analyses supports the establishment of the new aerophytic cyanobacterial genus Pycnacronema (Coleofasciculaceae, Oscillatoriales)
Authors: Martins Mariéllen Dornelles , Machado‐de‐Lima Náthali Maria , Branco Luis Henrique Zanini
Published: October 2018

A new Phormidium‐like genus was found during an investigation of Oscillatoriales diversity in Brazil. Eight aerophytic populations from south and southeastern regions were isolated in monospecific cultures and submitted to polyphasic evaluation. The populations presented homogeneous morphology with straight trichomes, not attenuated, and apical cell with thickened cell wall. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that these populations, plus the Brazilian strain Phomidium sp. B‐Tom from GenBank, formed a highly supported and distinctive clade, which corresponds to the new genus Pycnacronema, comprising six new species: P. brasiliensis (type species), P. arboriculum, P. conicum, P. marmoreum, P. rubrum, and P. savannensis. These results were confirmed and supported by rpoC1 and rbcL genes evaluated independently and by the concatenated analysis of 16S rRNA, rpoC1 and rbcL genes (for all species but P. savannensis). Secondary structures of the D1‐D1′, box‐B, and V3 regions of the internal transcribed spacer were informative at specific level, being conserved in P. brasiliensis and variable among the other strains, also confirming the phylogenetic analyses. The generic name and specific epithets of the new taxa are proposed under the provisions of the International Code of Nomenclature of algae, fungi, and plants.
Autonomy and Free Will
Authors: Weissman David
Published: October 2018

Autonomy and free will are essential conditions for moral agency: we aren’t responsible for effects we couldn’t choose or avert. Skeptics argue that the experience of free will is illusory; those defending it say that the conscious experience of intention and responsibility are sufficient evidence of free choice. This essay defends autonomy and free will from an alternate perspective: it affirms that choice has exhaustively material conditions but disputes the determinist claim that every choice is an involuntary step in a causal trajectory progressing blindly from nature’s original conditions. There is a paradox: we are responsible for much we choose and do, though all that comes to pass has sufficient conditions. This is the virtue of soft determinism and its emphasis on autonomy: the sensibility evolving within us is often a barrier to other influences while a sufficient condition for one’s choices and deeds.
Von Willebrand factor contribution to pathophysiology outside of von Willebrand disease
Authors: Mojiri Anahita , Alavi Parnian , Jahroudi Nadia
Published: October 2018

VWF is a procoagulant protein that plays a central role in the initiation of platelets aggregate formation and thrombosis. While von Willebrand disease has long been known to result from qualitative and quantitative deficiencies of VWF, it is recently that contribution of elevated levels of VWF to various pathological conditions including thrombosis, inflammation, angiogenesis, and cancer metastasis has been appreciated. Here, we discuss contribution of elevated levels of VWF to various thrombotic and nonthrombotic pathological conditions.
TgDrpC, an atypical dynamin‐related protein in Toxoplasma gondii, is associated with vesicular transport factors and parasite division
Authors: Heredero‐Bermejo Irene , Varberg Joseph M. , Charvat Robert , Jacobs Kylie , Garbuz Tamila , Sullivan William J. , Arrizabalaga Gustavo
Published: October 2018

Dynamin‐related proteins (Drps) are involved in diverse processes such as organelle division and vesicle trafficking. The intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii possesses three distinct Drps. TgDrpC, whose function remains unresolved, is unusual in that it lacks a conserved GTPase Effector Domain, which is typically required for function. Here, we show that TgDrpC localizes to cytoplasmic puncta; however, in dividing parasites, TgDrpC redistributes to the growing edge of the daughter cells. By conditional knockdown, we determined that loss of TgDrpC stalls division and leads to rapid deterioration of multiple organelles and the IMC. We also show that TgDrpC interacts with proteins that exhibit homology to those involved in vesicle transport, including members of the adaptor complex 2. Two of these proteins, a homolog of the adaptor protein 2 (AP‐2) complex subunit alpha‐1 and a homolog of the ezrin–radixin–moesin (ERM) family proteins, localize to puncta and associate with the daughter cells. Consistent with the association with vesicle transport proteins, re‐distribution of TgDrpC to the IMC during division is dependent on post‐Golgi trafficking. Together, these results support that TgDrpC contributes to vesicle trafficking and is critical for stability of parasite organelles and division.
Quantitative gingival crevicular fluid proteome in type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic periodontitis
Authors: Marinho Marcelo C. , Pacheco Ana Beatriz F. , Costa Giovani C. V. , Ortiz Nina D. , Zajdenverg Lenita , Sansone Carmelo
Published: October 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the proteome of the gingival crevicular fluid comparing the relative abundance of proteins from type 2 diabetes mellitus (2DM) individuals and chronic periodontitis (CP) affected sites, subjects affected by both conditions and healthy individuals.

Material and Methods

Twenty individuals were equally allocated in four groups, 2DM with CP, 2DM periodontally healthy, CP without 2DM, and periodontally healthy without 2DM. The relative quantification of proteins was accessed with iTRAQ labeling and mass spectrometry.

Results and Conclusion

A total of 104 proteins showed significant differences in abundance in pairwise comparisons. Some presented different levels in all diseased groups as compared to control, either increasing (rap guanine nucleotide exchange factor, S100A8, S100A9, and immunoglobulins) or decreasing (actins, myristoylated alanine‐rich C‐kinase substrate, and glutathione S‐transferase). Other differences were specific for a given condition: Titin, neutrophil elastase, and myeloperoxidase levels were higher in the DP group, cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide decreased in CP, and annexin decreased in DH. These differences in the proteome can provide clues for further studies that will validate the variation in their levels and their role in both diseases.
Orthognathic surgery induces genomewide changes longitudinally in DNA methylation in saliva
Authors: Yamaguchi Tetsutaro , Hosomichi Kazuyoshi , Takahashi Masahiro , Haga Shugo , Nakawaki Takatoshi , Hikita Yu , Maki Koutaro , Tajima Atsushi
Published: October 2018

Objective

Orthognathic surgery dramatically changes morphology of the maxillofacial deformity and improves the malocclusion morphologically and functionally. We investigated the influence of orthognathic surgery on genomewide DNA methylation in saliva.

Methods

Saliva was obtained from nine patients undergoing orthognathic surgery and two healthy reference individuals before and 3 months after orthognathic surgery. Genomewide DNA methylation profiling of saliva (341,482 CpG dinucleotides) was conducted using Infinium HumanMethylation450 BeadChips.

Results

Comparison between pre‐ and postsurgery saliva samples revealed significant changes in DNA methylation patterns at 2,381 CpG sites (p < 0.01) with suggestive significance. The differentially methylated probe sets were significantly associated with the cancer pathway (p = 2.8 × 10−7; a false discovery rate q‐value = 3.7 × 10−4) and PI3K‐Akt signalling pathway (p = 2.4 × 10−5; a false discovery rate q‐value = 3.1 × 10−2).

Conclusion

Pathway enrichment analysis of genes with suggestive significance demonstrated that altered DNA methylation in saliva of patients undergoing orthognathic surgery, possibly as a response to surgical stress or bone injury. Further studies with a large sample size and long‐term observation are needed to validate the phenomena identified in this study.
Association between changes in the intrathoracic impedance and ventricular arrhythmias in patients with heart failure
Authors: Osman Mohammed , Ahmed Azza , Alzubi Hussam , Kheiri Babikir , Osman Khansa , Barbarawi Mahmoud , Ríos‐Bedoya Carlos F. , Bachuwa Ghassan , Hassan Mustafa
Published: October 2018

Background

Ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) are independently related to mortality risk in patients with heart failure (HF). The wide availability of implantable cardioverter defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization therapy devices now offers an opportunity to clinically correlate the two disease processes. We hypothesized that there is an association between changes in the intrathoracic impedance and episodes of VA.

Methods

Nonconcurrent prospective study of adults (age >20 years) with known HF with reduced ejection fraction (<35%). The OptiVol threshold was categorized as follows: 0‐30 Ω‐days, 31‐60 Ω‐days, 61‐90 Ω‐days, 91‐120 Ω‐days, and >120 Ω‐days. Patients with OptiVol values at 0‐30 Ω‐days were used as the reference group. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was used to estimate the sensitivity and specificity at each threshold.

Results

Of the 87 eligible patients, 65.5% were males. The mean age of the sample was 73.3 years (±12.7). Compared to patients in the 0‐30 Ω‐days category, those in the 31‐60, 61‐90, 91‐120, and >120 Ω‐days groups had, on average, 1.48, 1.64, 2.24, and 1.6 more VAs, respectively (P = 0.002, 0.009, 0.010 and 0.009, respectively). The sensitivity and specificity of each threshold were as follows: 82.6% and 61.7% at 31‐60 Ω‐days, 43.5% and 78.3% at 61‐90 Ω‐days, 30.4% and 85.0% at 91‐120 Ω‐days, and 21.7% and 88.3% at >121 Ω‐days.

Conclusion

Our study found a significant positive relationship between changes in intrathoracic impedance and episodes of VAs in patients with HF.
Postoperative behavioral changes in Chinese children undergoing hypospadias repair surgery: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Luo Rong , Zuo YunXia , Liu Hai Bei , Pan Yan
Published: October 2018

Background

The perioperative period can be psychologically challenging, and children may exhibit behavioral changes following surgical anesthesia. It is unknown whether children in China have additional risk factors associated with negative behavioral changes.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of behavioral changes in children after hypospadias repair surgery and to identify potential risk factors associated with negative behavioral changes.

Methods

A prospective cohort of 177 children aged 2‐12 years scheduled for hypospadias repair surgery from 2016 to 2017 was studied. The primary outcome was the incidence of behavioral changes on postoperative days 14 and 30 evaluated with the Post‐Hospitalization Behavioral Questionnaire. Data collected included demographic data, anesthesia details, procedure details, admission details, child anxiety, child temperament, pain, and emergence delirium. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify risk factors associated with postoperative negative behavioral changes.

Results

A total of 60.5% (107/177) of children exhibited negative postoperative behavioral changes on day 14 and 46.5% (79/170) exhibited changes on day 30 after the surgery. Approximately 2.3% (4/177) and 2.4% (4/170) of children showed improved behavior on postoperative days 14 and 30, respectively. The frequency of temper tantrums changed the most. The logistic regression results suggested that a younger age (odds ratio: 0.86; 95% confidence interval 0.76‐0.96), emotional temperament (odds ratio: 1.1; 95% confidence interval 1.0‐1.2) and maternal education (odds ratio: 2.2; 95% confidence interval 1.1‐4.5) were associated with negative postoperative behavioral changes on day 14. On day 30, a younger age (odds ratio: 0.87; 95% confidence interval 0.77 to 0.98) was the only factor associated with negative postoperative behavioral changes.

Conclusion

For children undergoing hypospadias repair surgery in our institution, approximately three in five showed postoperative behavioral changes. In addition to a younger age and a higher maternal education, an emotional temperament is associated with a high incidence of negative postoperative behavioral changes.
Disseminated visceral Kaposi´s sarcoma in a pediatric bilateral lung transplant recipient
Authors: Galluzzo Mutti Laura , Álvarez Mariana , Siminovich Mónica , Pérez Celeste , Lucero Belén , Nieto Mary , Castaños Claudio , Haag Dora , Boglione Mariano
Published: October 2018

Cancer is a major adverse outcome of solid organ transplantation, and risks are especially high for malignancies caused by viral infections. HHV‐8 is the etiologic agent of Kaposi´s sarcoma (KS). We report a case of visceral KS occurring in a 15‐year‐old patient after lung transplantation. The evolution was dramatically fast and interestingly, KS lesions were diffusely observed, but not in the skin. The autopsy showed the presence of numerous tumoral lesions in many organs. Microscopically, they all had very similar features, regardless of the organ affected. KS presented without cutaneous involvement. The girl was not tested for HHV‐8 prior to transplantation as it was not part of our protocol. The donor was negative. The aim of the report is to alert other teams, especially those working in pediatrics, about this rare but potential complication in the setting of solid organ transplantation.
ATR/Chk1 Pathway is Activated by Oxidative Stress in Response to UVA Light in Human Xeroderma Pigmentosum Variant Cells
Authors: Moreno Natália Cestari , Garcia Camila Carrião Machado , Rocha Clarissa Ribeiro Reily , Munford Veridiana , Menck Carlos Frederico Martins
Published: October 2018

The crucial role of DNA polymerase eta in protecting against sunlight‐induced tumors is evidenced in Xeroderma Pigmentosum Variant (XP‐V) patients, who carry mutations in this protein and present increased frequency of skin cancer. XP‐V cellular phenotypes may be aggravated if proteins of DNA damage response (DDR) pathway are blocked, as widely demonstrated by experiments with UVC light and caffeine. However, little is known about the participation of DDR in XP‐V cells exposed to UVA light, the wavelengths patients are mostly exposed. Here, we demonstrate the participation of ATR kinase in protecting XP‐V cells after receiving low UVA doses using a specific inhibitor, with a remarkable increase in sensitivity and γH2AX signaling. Corroborating ATR participation in UVA‐DDR, a significant increase in Chk1 protein phosphorylation, as well as S‐phase cell cycle arrest, is also observed. Moreover, the participation of oxidative stress is supported by the antioxidant action of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC), which significantly protects XP‐V cells from UVA light, even in the presence of the ATR inhibitor. These findings indicate that the ATR/Chk1 pathway is activated to control UVA‐induced oxidatively generated DNA damage and emphasizes the role of ATR kinase as a mediator of genomic stability in pol eta defective cells.
NUT Carcinoma: Clinicopathologic features, pathogenesis, and treatment
Authors: French Christopher A.
Published: October 2018

NUT carcinoma (NC) is a rare, aggressive subtype of squamous cell carcinoma defined by rearrangement of the NUTM1 (aka NUT) gene. NC is driven by NUT‐fusion oncoproteins resulting from chromosomal translocation, most commonly BRD4‐NUT. This is a nearly uniformly lethal cancer affecting patients of all ages, but predominantly teens and young adults. The cell of origin is unknown, but NC most commonly arises within the thorax and head and neck. NC typically consists of sheets of monomorphic primitive round cells that can exhibit focal abrupt squamous differentiation. Diagnosis of NC is easy, and can be established by positive NUT nuclear immunohistochemical staining. Though characterization of the NUTM1‐fusion gene is desirable by molecular analysis, it is not required for the diagnosis. The increasingly widespread availability of the NUT diagnostic test is leading to increasing diagnoses of this vastly underdiagnosed disease. The NUT midline carcinoma registry (www.NMCRegistry.org) serves as a central repository that has provided the main source of clinical and outcomes data for NC. Currently there is no effective therapy for NC, however small molecules directly targeting the BRD4 portion of BRD4‐NUT, termed BET bromodomain inhibitors, have shown activity.
Serum ischaemia‐modified albumin might be a potential biomarker for oxidative stress in amnestic mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Du Lei , Ma Jianhua , He Dan , Zhang Xiaoning
Published: October 2018

Background

Amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) is considered to be a prodromal stage of Alzheimer's disease. The clinical role of ischaemia‐modified albumin (IMA) and the association between IMA and oxidative stress in aMCI have not been investigated. The aim of the study was to explore this relationship and to generate new ideas for controlling Alzheimer's disease.

Methods

This community‐based case–control study included 113 patients with aMCI and 832 cognitively normal controls. Serum levels of albumin and IMA, diacron‐reactive oxygen metabolite, and biological anti‐oxidant potential, were measured. The IMA/albumin ratio and the biological anti‐oxidant potential/diacron‐reactive oxygen metabolite ratio were calculated.

Results

In univariate analysis, the serum IMA level and the IMA/albumin ratio were higher in the aMCI patients than in the controls (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively). In multivariate analysis, a serum IMA level ≥476.4 ng/mL and an IMA/albumin ratio ≥9.4 were separately associated with the development of aMCI (odds ratio = 3.56, 95% confidence interval: 2.33–5.46; odds ratio = 3.43, 95% confidence interval: 2.25–5.27, respectively). There was a linear correlation between serum IMA level and several oxidative stress markers (biological anti‐oxidant potential/diacron‐reactive oxygen metabolite ratio: r = −0.585, P < 0.001; diacron‐reactive oxygen metabolite: r = 0.549, P < 0.001; biological anti‐oxidant potential: r = −0.293, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Serum IMA might be a potential biomarker for oxidative stress in aMCI.
Don’t look, don’t think, just do it! Toward an understanding of alpha gating in a discrete aiming task
Authors: Gallicchio Germano , Ring Christopher
Published: October 2018

Prior to and during movement, oscillatory alpha activity gates cognitive resources toward motor areas of the cortex by inhibiting neuronal excitability in nonmotor areas. The present study examined the effect of manipulating target variability on this alpha gating phenomenon. Using a baseline‐test‐retention design, we measured EEG alpha power, performance accuracy, and task difficulty in 32 recreational golfers as they putted golf balls (20 per target) to one central target (baseline, retention) and four targets of different directions and extents (manipulation). For participants in the random group (n = 16), target location varied with each repetition in a random fashion, whereas for participants in the blocked group (n = 16), it was kept constant within blocks. Regional analyses revealed a focal pattern of lower central alpha and higher occipital and temporal alpha. This topography was specific to preparation for movement and was associated with performance: smallest performance errors were preceded by decreased central combined with increased occipital alpha. The random group performed worse than the blocked group and found the task more difficult. Importantly, left temporal alpha prior to movement onset was lower for the random group than the blocked group. No group differences were found at baseline or retention. Our study proved that alpha gating can be altered by manipulating intertrial variability and thereby demonstrated the utility of the alpha gating model. Our findings underscore the importance of inhibiting occipital and left temporal areas when performing movements and provide further evidence that alpha gating reflects neural efficiency during motor tasks.
Chimerism as an important marker in post‐transplant monitoring chimerism monitoring
Authors: Cechova Hana , Leontovycova Monika , Pavlatova Lucie
Published: October 2018

Cell chimerism determination is important for the monitoring of engraftment dynamics and for relapse prediction. Our cohort of 474 patients was divided into two groups according to the determination methods used over time, and by their chimerism status. A significant difference in survival was observed between mixed vs complete chimerism (P < 0.0001 vs P < 0.0002) in both patient groups, and also vs microchimerism (P = 0.0201) in the second group. Detection of mixed chimerism is thus a high‐risk factor, and microchimerism is potentially a risk factor in the post‐transplantation course. Methods with a high sensitivity for monitoring cell chimerism significantly improve the assessment of patients post‐transplant, and they enable the identification of patients with high relapse risk. Supported by MH CZ—DRO (00023736, UHKT).
On the Arithmetical Truth of Self‐Referential Sentences
Authors: Lajevardi Kaave , Salehi Saeed
Published: October 2018

We take an argument of Gödel's from his ground‐breaking 1931 paper, generalize it, and examine its validity. The argument in question is this: the sentence G says about itself that it is not provable, and G is indeed not provable; therefore, G is true.
Cold stress response in Arabidopsis thaliana is mediated by GNOM ARF‐GEF
Authors: Ashraf Mohammad A. , Rahman Abidur
Published: October 2018

Summary

Endosomal trafficking plays an important role in regulating plant growth and development both at optimal and stressed conditions. Cold stress response in Arabidopsis root is directly linked to inhibition of the endosomal trafficking of auxin efflux carriers. However, the cellular components that link cold stress and the endosomal trafficking remain elusive. By screening available endosomal trafficking mutants against root growth recovery response under cold stress, we identified GNOM, a SEC7 containing ARF‐GEF, as a major modulator of cold response. Contrasting response of partial loss of function mutant gnomB4049/emb30‐1 and the engineered Brefeldin A (BFA)‐resistant GNOM line, both of which contain mutations within SEC7 domain, to cold stress at the whole‐plant level highlights the importance of this domain in modulating the cold response pathway of plants. Cold stress selectively and transiently inhibits GNOM expression. The engineered point mutation at 696 amino acid position (Methionine to Leucine) that makes GNOM resistant to BFA in fact results in overexpression of GNOM both at transcriptional and translational levels, and also alters its subcellular localization. Overexpression and altered cellular localization of GNOM were found to be directly linked to conferring striking cold‐resistant phenotype in Arabidopsis. Collectively, these results provide a mechanistic link between GNOM, BFA‐sensitive GNOM‐regulated trafficking and cold stress.
Transfusion support for matched sibling allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (1993–2010): factors that predict intensity and time to transfusion independence
Authors: Griffith Linda M. , VanRaden Mark , Barrett A. John , Childs Richard W. , Fowler Daniel H. , Kang Elizabeth M. , Tisdale John F. , Klein Harvey G. , Stroncek David F.
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant require variable, often extensive transfusion support. Identification of factors that predict urgent, intensive, or special needs should improve management of these patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This is a retrospective study of red blood cell (RBC) and platelet transfusion support provided for sequential matched sibling donor allogeneic transplants conducted at the Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, from 1993 through 2010. Factors potentially important for predicting quantity of RBC and platelet transfusions, and time to transfusion independence through Day 200 following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation were evaluated.

RESULTS

Subjects (n = 800) received 10,591 RBC and 10,199 platelet transfusions. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that the need for RBC pretransplant, CD34+ dose, transplant year, diagnostic category, and ABO match were significantly independently associated with quantity of RBC transfusions during Days 0 through 30. Only pretransplant need for RBCs, CD34+ dose, and transplant year had significance during Days 0 through 100. Similar analyses for quantity of platelet transfusions demonstrated that for both Days 0 through 30 and 0 through 100 significant factors were need for platelet support before transplant, CD34+ dose, transplant year, and transplant regimen. Of note, long term, during Days 101 through 200, only CD34+ dose remained significant for quantity of RBC and platelet transfusions. Analysis of time to transfusion independence demonstrated that patients with ABO major mismatches required longer to achieve freedom from RBC transfusion support compared to identical matches or those with minor mismatches.

CONCLUSION

Patient‐specific factors including CD34+ dose and ABO match of the graft should be given particular consideration by transfusion services when planning support of patients receiving allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant.
Frequency of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathologies in Patients from 0 to 18 Years in the Fundación Hospital de la Misericordia Bogotá (Colombia), during the Period 2006-2014
Authors: Parra Sanabria Erika Alexandra , Peña Vega Claudia Patricia
Published: October 2018

Introduction: Oral pathologies that can occur in children are very diverse and require extensive knowledge to diagnose them. Objective: To describe the frequency of oral and maxillofacial pathologies that occurred in patients aged 0-18 years who attended the Fundación Hospital de la Misericordia (HOMI) in the period 2006-2014, in addition to relating the most frequent oral and maxillofacial pathologies with sociodemographic characteristics. Materials and Methods: Descriptive, cross-sectional study. The analysis of information was recorded of 277 clinical histories of the HOMI, in patients from 0 to 18 years, who were diagnosed with any of the oral and maxillofacial pathologies, divided as follows: Head/neck cystic lesions, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) lesions, infectious lesions, benign tumor, malignant tumor of head and neck, and benign odontogenic tumor. It was carried out in analysis of the sociodemographic characteristics. Results: The most frequent pathologies were infectious lesions (62.45%), followed by benign odontogenic tumors (12.99%). Conclusions: This study shows that the most frequent pathologies were infectious lesions and benign odontogenic tumors.
Mental Health in the Attention Models for Juvenile Offenders. The Cases of Colombia, Argentina, United States and Canada
Authors: Torres Quintero Angélica Paola , Villanueva Congote Juliana , Jaramillo Bernal Maria Camila , Sotomayor Carreño Esteban , Gutiérrez Congote Catherine
Published: October 2018

Abstract

Objective: To investigate how mental health is understood and approached in the attention models of detention centers for the convicted underage population in Argentina, Colombia, United States and Canada. Methodology: A literature search was conducted using the following key words: adolescence, mental health, juvenile justice, juvenile delinquency, risk factors, and interventions. Searches were done through the search engine Pubmed. Additionally, public institution websites for each country were consulted. Conclusions: Juvenile delinquency is now understood as a multi-factorial phenomenon with multiple areas of intervention within which economic, domestic and social factors are considered relevant, since these favor the development of criminal behavior. A similarity was found between Colombian and Argentinian systems; both are based on restorative justice that seeks reparation and not punishment; which is why there are no punitive measures. When comparing Canada and the United States, it can be seen that Canada is more similar to Latin-American countries than to the United States, given that the latter uses punitive measures focused on the offender.
Advanced Assessment of Ductile Fracture Behaviour in Dissimilar Metal Welds Using X-Ray Tomography
Authors: Brayshaw W. J. , Cooper A. , Sherry A. H. , James P.
Published: October 2018

Dissimilar metal welds represent a challenge for structural integrity assessments of nuclear plants due to the complex microstructure and variation in properties over short length scales. This paper presents the findings of a study aimed at investigating the fracture behaviour of a dissimilar metal weld of SA508-4N steel joined to 316LN stainless steel via a filler weld of Alloy 82. Fracture toughness observations have shown the crack growth direction extended from the SA508-4N heat affected zone into the Alloy 82 weld metal. Finite element modelling has been used to simulate the fracture toughness testing with the crack-tip positioned in different material regions. The results have shown that the location of the crack-tip in relation to the fusion boundary and material properties being sampled by the plastic zone has a significant effect on the fracture behaviour of the dissimilar metal weld. Finally X-ray tomography of tested material has provided significant insights into the level of initial porosity within the dissimilar metal weld and development of ductile damage in the materials surrounding the crack-tip. This has been used to infer parameters for a continuum ductile damage model that is used to simulate crack growth.
The Effects of Fluoropolymer Coated Fasteners on Nut Friction Factors
Authors: Clark Karson P.
Published: October 2018

Fluoropolymer-industrial coatings containing PTFE, also referred to by the tradename Xylan® 1424, are applied in a thin film to provide both lubrication and corrosion resistance. Fluoropolymer coated fasteners are manufactured by a multitude of companies with varying manufacturing practices, procedures, and quality metrics. Fluoropolymer coated fasteners are being considered by major power producers to be used in natural gas transmission lines for their advertised and expected low coefficient of friction properties in place of standard carbon steel fasteners with manually applied lubrication. While some research exists for the nut friction factor of smaller diameter fluoropolymer coated fasteners, this paper will provide empirically obtained data and analysis of the nut friction factors for larger diameter fasteners, up to 2-1/4”, acquired from four different fluoropolymer coated fastener suppliers advertising equivalent fluoropolymer coating specifications and resulting performance. This study is a milestone to further understand the repeatability and quality of fluoropolymer coated fasteners as supplied from one manufacturer to another.
Stress Multiplier for Segmented Gaskets
Authors: Waterland A. Fitzgerald (Jerry) , Wilson Jeffery
Published: October 2018

The use of segmented joint technology allows gasket manufacturers to fabricate and supply gaskets in discrete segments, rather than the conventional one-piece construction. Segmented gaskets are required when using sheet type gaskets for flange diameters larger than the available sheet size. Typical gasket sheets are 60” × 60” or 70” × 70” square, for instance. Flanges designed for these lower stress sheet gaskets that are larger than the available sheet size to fabricate the gaskets are typically fabricated as segmented gaskets. Segmented gaskets are also utilized in smaller flange applications to facilitate maintenance activities. When replacing the tube sheet gasket in a shell and tube exchanger the entire tube sheet must be removed in order to utilize a solid, one-piece ring gasket. In some cases this is not practical or desired, so a segmented gasket is utilized which only requires the tube sheet to be removed a short distance to allow access to the sealing surface. This same scenario exists with other common process piping and vessel flanges including thermowells, lance tubes, agitator or mixer shafts, etc. Valid concerns exist when using segmented gaskets as potential leak paths are created at every joint. If the gasket material and joint design are not correctly specified and fabricated the segmented gasket may not provide the same sealing performance and reliability as the solid, un-segmented gasket. This paper will discuss the research and data found that identifies the stress multiplier for segmented/jointed gaskets to achieve the same (similar) leak rate as their solid, unsegmented gasket counterpart. This assembly or design stress multiplier will be a dynamic number that will vary based upon the gasket material and the joining technology used. Two jointing methods are evaluated in this research; the industry standard “dovetail” and the Engineered Interference Tortuous Path (EITP) joint. In practice there is currently no guidance available to guide the design or assembly of these segmented gasket applications. The purpose of this paper is to provide guidance for both design and assembly purposes.
Analytical Evaluation of Residual Stresses in the Transition Zone of Expanded Tube-to-Tubesheet Joints
Authors: Bouzid Abdel-Hakim , Pourreza Mohammad
Published: October 2018

The rigorous analysis of tube-to-tubesheet joints requires a particular attention to the transition zone of the expanded tube because of its impact on joint integrity. This transition zone is the weakest part of the joint due to the presence of high tensile residual stresses produced during the expansion process which coupled to other in-service loadings and harsh corrosive fluids results in joint failure. In fact, this zone is often subjected to stress corrosion cracking caused by intergranular attack leading to plant shutdown. Therefore, the evaluation of the residual stresses in the transition zone is of major concern during the design phase and its accurate assessment is necessary in order to achieve a reliable joint in service.

In this study, a new analytical model to evaluate the residual axial and hoop stresses in the transition zone of hydraulically expanded tubes based on an elastic perfectly plastic material behavior has been developed. The model is capable of predicting the stress state under the maximum expansion pressure and after the expansion process has been completed. Three main regions are identified in the transition zone: the fully plastic region, the partially plastic region and the elastic region. Therefore, various theories have been applied to analyze the stresses and deformations neglecting the partial plastic region because of simplicity. The validation of analytical model is conducted by comparison of the results with the ones of 3D finite element models representing typical geometry and mechanical properties. The effect of reverse yielding of the expansion zone is also investigated.
When the Joukowsky Equation Does Not Predict Maximum Water Hammer Pressures
Authors: Walters Trey W. , Leishear Robert A.
Published: October 2018

The Joukowsky equation has been used as a first approximation for more than a century to estimate water hammer pressure surges. However, this practice may provide incorrect, non-conservative, pressure calculations under several conditions. These conditions are typically described throughout fluid transient text books, but a consolidation of these issues in a brief paper seems warranted to prevent calculation errors in practice and to also provide a brief understanding of the limits and complexities of water hammer equations.

To this end, various issues are discussed here that result in the calculation of pressures greater than those predicted by the Joukowsky equation. These conditions include reflected waves at tees, changes in piping diameter, and changes in pipe wall material, as well as frictional effects referred to as line pack, and the effects due to the collapse of vapor pockets. In short, the fundamental goal here is to alert practicing engineers of the cautions that should be applied when using the Joukowsky equation as a first approximation of fluid transient pressures.
Review of Mechanical and Sealing Performance Aspects of Commercially Available PTFE Based Gasket Materials
Authors: Rice Dale A. , Waterland A. Fitzgerald
Published: October 2018

Gaskets incorporating polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) are one of the most common in use today where soft sealing material is needed in bolted joints. Over the years, various types of gaskets have been developed including those using skived, expanded, filled, or molded PTFE sheet. Still other PTFE gaskets have been fabricated, incorporating some type of metal insert. Although many of the key benefits (e.g., chemical resistance, application in a broad range of flange types, higher maximum temperature and stress levels than most elastomers, indefinite shelf life, etc.) remain, the performance of the gasket will vary significantly according to the type of PTFE gasket employed. These variations in accordance with PTFE gasket styles are presented and discussed with an emphasis on such criteria as relaxation, gasket tightness / leak rate, and safe reserve operating temperature. For estimating tightness and predicted leak rates, the previously reported “Fugitive Emissions Calculator” (FEC) model has been used which employs Room Temperature Testing (ROTT) data and an ASME / PVRC draft empirical equations set. Published test data have also been compiled to support conclusions concerning relative capabilities for selected PTFE gasket categories. The differences in analytical and leak rate performance criteria have been used to suggest appropriate applications for various subtypes of PTFE gaskets.
Mechanical Behaviour of a Forged Ferritic Steel Shell Containing Numerous Hydrogen Flakes
Authors: Jacquemoud C. , Delvallée-Nunio I.
Published: October 2018

Following the flaw indications found in summer 2012 in two Belgian Reactors Pressure Vessels (RPV), WENRA recommended [1] the nuclear safety authorities in Europe to verify the material quality and integrity of the RPV in a 2-step approach: 1) a comprehensive review of the manufacturing and inspection records of the forgings of the RPV, 2) an additional UT examination of the base material of the vessels if needed.

In this context, and to consolidate scientific basis on this issue, IRSN, the French technical safety organization, conducted, with CEA support, a test program aiming at studying the consequences of hydrogen flakes in large forgings of primary equipment (RPV, steam generator, pressurizer).

Framatome provided the material to be investigated, namely two blocks of a steam generator vessel shell in 18MND5 steel: a block without flake — the reference block — and a block including a high density of hydrogen flakes. This shell — so called VB395 — was rejected because of an incident which occurred during the degassing heat treatment.

Fracture toughness has been evaluated from 85 tests in the ductile range and the ductile-to-brittle transition range of the material. The test results on usual 0.5T-CT specimens were compared to those on specimens containing a hydrogen flake replacing the fatigue precrack. The latter were interpreted using 3D elastic-plastic X-FEM simulations allowing the modelling of the irregular flake geometry.

Furthermore, large scale bending specimens with multiple flakes have been tested at −100°C. These tests were interpreted thanks to 3D X-FEM simulations allowing the analysis of the hydrogen flake interaction in terms of KJ.
Effects of Thermal Ageing on Microstructure and Hardness of Ni Cladding on Austenitic Stainless Steel by GTAW
Authors: Yu Kun , Shi Xianwu , Li Zhijun , Li Chaowen , Chen Shuangjian , Zhou Xingtai
Published: October 2018

As one of the most promising Generation IV nuclear reactors, thorium molten salt reactor (TMSR) possesses inherent safety, simplified fuel cycle and high power generation efficiency. However, the structure material of TMSR must encounter challenges of high-temperature environment and serious molten fluoride salts corrosion. Although the UNS N10003 alloy has excellent performance in TMSR, the high cost of this alloy reduces the economy of TMSR. Although the austenitic stainless steel possesses excellent high temperature strength and lower cost, it exhibits poor corrosion resistance in molten fluoride salts. Therefore, the purpose of this work is using Ni cladding on austenitic stainless steel by gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) for corrosion protection and investigating the effects of thermal ageing on microstructure and hardness of cladding. The elements distribution and segregation, the precipitates behavior and the microstructure evolution of interface and cladding layer under as-welded and thermal ageing conditions were studied by a series of characterization methods respectively. The hardness evolution of claddings under as-welded and thermal ageing conditions were tested and discussed.