bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Value of TAT and PIC with D‐dimer for cancer patients with metastasis
Authors: Cui Chanjuan , Gao Jia , Li Jia , Yu Mengyao , Zhang Hao , Cui Wei
Published: April 2020

Introduction

The hypercoagulability of blood is related to the development and metastasis of cancer. High levels of D‐dimer have been reported to be associated with the metastasis and poor prognoses of cancer. Here, we investigated the performance of biomarkers—TAT, PIC, TM, and tPAI·C by new method—for monitoring cancer patients with metastasis.

Methods

A total of 197 cancer patients were enrolled. TM, TAT, PIC, and tPAI·C were detected by the chemiluminescence immunoassay.

Results

Results showed that the levels of TAT and PIC were higher in the metastasis group than those in the nonmetastasis group (P < .01). In the nonmetastasis group, there were 16 patients with elevated levels of D‐dimer. But, TAT and PIC in these 16 patients were all at normal level (<0.55 mg/L FEU). After dilution, D‐dimer was also decreased to normal levels in these 16 patients. The ROC was used to show the performance of D‐dimer, TAT, and PIC on indicating cancer with metastasis. The AUC of PIC was higher than that of D‐dimer (0.825 vs. 0.770). The specificity and PPV of TAT and PIC were higher than those of D‐dimer. Serial test of TAT, PIC, and D‐dimer improved the specificity and positive predictive value to 90.91% [80.61%, 96.25%] and 89.29% [77.45%, 95.57%], respectively.

Conclusion

Combining TAT and PIC with D‐dimer could be useful surveillance biomarkers for cancer with metastasis.
Media attention and firm value: International evidence
Authors: Dang Tung L. , Huynh Thi H. H. , Nguyen Manh T.
Published: April 2020

We investigate the relation between media attention and firm value and whether this relation varies across different institutional and information environments. Using a comprehensive dataset of global media from 41 countries for the period between 2000 and 2010, we find that media coverage is positively associated with firm value. In addition, we find support for two channels through which the value effect of media coverage operates: the information asymmetry reduction channel and the monitoring channel. Importantly, we document that the positive association between media coverage and firm value is stronger for firms in countries with weak institutional characteristics or less transparent information environments. Our findings provide additional insights into the role of the media in international equity markets.
Microstructure evolution and electromechanical properties of (K,Na) NbO3‐based thick films
Authors: Mercier Hugo , Levassort Franck , Uršič Hana , Kuscer Danjela
Published: April 2020

This study investigated an unconventional method of electrophoretic deposition (EPD) for the processing of environmentally benign (K0.5Na0.5)0.99Sr0.005NbO3 (KNNSr) thick films on Pt/alumina substrate. EPD allows rapid, economical, and low‐waste processing of thick films and thus offers an integration advantage for electronics manufacturing. To understand the functional response of the KNNSr thick films, the effect of the sintering temperature and atmosphere on their structure, microstructure, and electromechanical properties was investigated. KNNSr thick films densify in constrained conditions in a very narrow temperature range only a few 10°C below the melting temperature of 1140°C. Up to 1100°C the relative density increases to 80%, upon further heating to 1110°C we observed only the grain growth and pore coalescence. The densification is not affected significantly by the atmosphere. The local domain structure of 25‐33 μm thick KNNSr films was similar, while the dielectric and electromechanical properties increased with the increasing sintering temperature. KNNSr thick film sintered at 1100°C has a thickness‐coupling factor kt of 0.4, comparable to that of bulk. The results reveal that the EPD enables the economic processing of high‐performance thick films on complex‐shape substrates that are difficult to fabricate using conventional thick‐film methods.
Hummingbird torpor in context: duration, more than temperature, is the key to nighttime energy savings
Authors: Shankar Anusha , Schroeder Rebecca J. , Wethington Susan M. , Graham Catherine H. , Powers Donald R.
Published: April 2020

Torpor is an important energy saving strategy in some small birds, but it has rarely been studied in natural field conditions. We compared torpor use across 43 wild‐caught individuals of eight hummingbird species across sites with different natural temperature regimes. Most laboratory studies focus on the relationship between metabolic rate and temperature, but our aim was to evaluate what environmental factors most influence hummingbird nighttime energy management under natural conditions. We found that the probability of an individual entering torpor was weakly correlated with mass but unrelated to nighttime temperature and that hummingbirds at both warm, tropical and cooler, temperate sites used torpor. Energy savings in torpor were maximized as ambient temperatures approached a species’ minimum body temperature, consistent with laboratory studies; energy savings ranged between 65 and 92% of energy per hour in torpor compared to normothermy. However, regardless of the degree of energy savings in torpor, variation in total nighttime energy expenditure was most significantly influenced by torpor bout duration. Lab studies largely assess the effect of temperature on torpor use, but our findings indicate that other environmental conditions are more important in determining hummingbirds’ total nighttime energy expenditure under natural temperature cycles. Our results show that a small endotherm's nighttime energy management in its natural habitat is more affected by torpor bout duration, which is linked to photoperiod, than by temperature. This result suggests that in their natural environments hummingbirds are able to save energy in torpor across a range of nighttime temperatures, indicating that they may have sufficient physiological flexibility to tolerate climatic variation.
Paroxysmal short runs of irregular narrow QRS tachycardia: What is the mechanism?
Authors: Yin Ran , Pen Jintian , Zheng Zeqi
Published: April 2020

The present case that showed the frequent transition between left atrial tachycardia and AV nodal re‐entrant tachycardia has never been reported. This instructive case highlights the need for careful interpretation of intracardiac electrocardiogram and suggests that differential pacing maneuvers are not feasible in transitional tachycardia with atrial fusion.
Characterization of the relationship between FLI1 and immune infiltrate level in tumour immune microenvironment for breast cancer
Authors: Wang Shiyuan , Wang Yakun , Yu Chunlu , Cao Yiyin , Yu Yao , Pan Yi , Su Dongqing , Lu Qianzi , Yang Wuritu , Zuo Yongchun , Yang Lei
Published: April 2020

Breast cancer is the most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer death among women in the world. Tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes were defined as the white blood cells left in the vasculature and localized in tumours. Recently, tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes were found to be associated with good prognosis and response to immunotherapy in tumours. In this study, to examine the influence of FLI1 in immune system in breast cancer, we interrogated the relationship between the FLI1 expression levels with infiltration levels of 28 immune cell types. By splitting the breast cancer samples into high and low expression FLI1 subtypes, we found that the high expression FLI1 subtype was enriched in many immune cell types, and the up‐regulated differentially expressed genes between them were enriched in immune system processes, immune‐related KEGG pathways and biological processes. In addition, many important immune‐related features were found to be positively correlated with the FLI1 expression level. Furthermore, we found that the FLI1 was correlated with the immune‐related genes. Our findings may provide useful help for recognizing the relationship between tumour immune microenvironment and FLI1, and may unravel clinical outcomes and immunotherapy utility for FLI1 in breast cancer.
A Widely Distributed Thraustochytrid Parasite of Diatoms Isolated from the Arctic Represents a gen. and sp. nov.
Authors: Hassett Brandon T.
Published: April 2020

A unicellular, heterotrophic, eukaryotic parasite was isolated from nearshore Arctic marine sediment in association with the diatom Pleurosigma sp. The parasite possessed ectoplasmic threads that could penetrate diatom frustules. Healthy and reproducing Pleurosigma cultures would begin to collapse within a week following the introduction of this parasite. The parasite (2–10 μm diameter) could reproduce epibiotically with biflagellate zoospores, as well as binary division inside and outside the diatom host. While the parasite grew, diatom intracellular content disappeared. Evaluation of electron micrographs from co‐cultures revealed the presence of hollow tubular processes and amorphic cells that could transcend the diatom frustule, generally at the girdle band, as well as typical thraustochytrid ultrastructure, such as the presence of bothrosomes. After nucleotide extraction, amplification, and cloning, database queries of DNA revealed closest molecular affinity to environmental thraustochytrid clone sequences. Testing of phylogenetic hypotheses consistently grouped this unknown parasite within the Thraustochytriidae on a distinct branch within the environmental sequence clade Lab19. Reclassification of Arctic high‐throughput sequencing data, with appended reference datasets that included this diatom parasite, indicated that the majority of thraustochytrid sequences, previously binned as unclassifiable stramenopiles, are allied to this new isolate. Based on the combined information acquired from electron microscopy, life history, and phylogenetic testing, this unknown isolate is described as a novel species and genus.
Effectiveness of edible coatings to inhibit browning and inactivate foodborne pathogens on fresh‐cut apples
Authors: Jin Tony Z. , Chen Wenxuan , Gurtler Joshua B. , Fan Xuetong
Published: April 2020

Multiple formulations of edible coating solutions were developed and evaluated for their ability to maintain the quality and minimize populations of foodborne bacteria on fresh‐cut apples. Fresh‐cut apples were artificially inoculated with Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Listeria monocytogenes, and dip‐treated with coating solutions. Changes in populations of pathogens and molds and yeasts (M&Y) were evaluated after solution treatments and during storage at 4°C for 35 days. Changes in color, texture firmness, and weight loss during storage were also determined. Among the formulations, the solution containing 1% of three organic acids (acetic, lactic, and levulinic acids), 2% N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine or L‐cysteine with 0.5% chitosan demonstrated the best effectiveness for the simultaneous reduction of pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms, control of browning, and maintenance of the quality of fresh‐cut apples. The treated apple slices had nondetectable pathogens and M&Y (<1 log CFU) and the least quality changes for 35‐day storage. The developed solutions can be used at processing plants, retail stores, or homes to protect fresh‐cut apples or other fresh‐cut fruits and vegetables from microbiological and quality deterioration.
Whole‐grain intake and its inverse relationships with fatty acids intake among multiethnic Malaysian schoolchildren
Authors: Koo H. C. , Kaur S. , Chan K. Q. , Soh W. H. , Ang Y. L. , Chow W. S. , Hew M. K. , Wong S. Y. , Yap M. P.
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Little is known about the relationship of whole‐grain intake with dietary fatty acids intake. The present study aimed to assess the whole‐grain intake and its relationships with dietary fatty acids intake among multiethnic schoolchildren in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted among 392 schoolchildren aged 9–11 years, cluster sampled from five randomly selected schools in Kuala Lumpur. Whole‐grain and fatty acids intakes were assessed by 3‐day, 24‐h diet recalls. All whole‐grain foods were considered irrespective of the amount of whole grain they contained.

Results

In total, 55.6% (n = 218) were whole‐grain consumers. Mean (SD) daily intake of whole grain in the total sample was 5.13 (9.75) g day−1. In the whole‐grain consumer’s only sample, mean (SD) intakes reached 9.23 (11.55) g day−1. Significant inverse associations were found between whole‐grain intake and saturated fatty acid (SAFA) intake (r = −0.357; P < 0.001), monosaturated fatty acid (MUFA) (r = −0.373; P < 0.001) and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) (r = −0.307; P < 0.001) intake. Furthermore, whole‐grain intake was a significant predictor of SAFA (β = −0.077; P = 0.004), MUFA (β = −0.112; P = <0.001) and PUFA (β = −0.202; P = <0.001) intakes, after controlling for sex, age and ethnicity.

Conclusions

Whole‐grain intake in Malaysia was well below recommendations. Schoolchildren who consumed higher whole grain tend to reduce fat intake; however, it would also reduce the SAFA, MUFA and PUFA intakes. Future collaboration may be conducted between industry, government and universities to promote unsaturated fatty acids‐rich foods and whole‐grain food, although not to promote processed whole‐grain foods with a high sugar and salt content.
Intimate Partner Violence, Anger, and Abandonment Schema in Nonclinical Japanese Undergraduate Students
Authors: Takebe Masaya
Published: April 2020

Intimate partner violence (IPV) among adolescents is on the rise. Although anger and the abandonment schema have been found to be risk factors for IPV perpetration, little is known about their interaction with different types of IPV (e.g., violent and restraint control behavior) based on a cognitive‐behavioral perspective. In addition to examining these interactions, the present study also measured only the emotional aspect of anger, while previous studies measured anger as a multi‐component construct. A total of 97 nonclinical Japanese undergraduate students participated in this study. Results indicated that people with a high degree of abandonment schema tended to use violent control behavior. On the other hand, restraint control behavior was likely to be used if people had a high degree of abandonment schema and anger. The results suggested that targeting anger and the abandonment schema may be important for treating and preventing IPV. The utility of a cognitive‐behavioral perspective for the treatment and prevention of IPV perpetration is discussed.
Floral reorientation: the restoration of pollination accuracy after accidents
Authors: Armbruster W. Scott , Muchhala Nathan
Published: April 2020

Plants sometimes suffer mechanical injury. The nonlethal collapse of a flowering stalk, for example, can greatly reduce plant fitness if it leads to ‘incorrect’ floral orientation and thus reduced visitation or poor pollination. When floral orientation is important for accurate pollination, as has been suggested for bilaterally symmetrical flowers, we predict that such flowers should have developmental and/or behavioural mechanisms for restoring ‘correct’ orientation after accidents.

We made observations and conducted experiments on 23 native and cultivated flowering plant species in Australia, South America, North America and Europe.

We found that flowers with bilateral symmetry usually have the capacity to reorient after accidents, and that this is manifested through rapid bending and/or rotation of pedicels or sexual organs or slower peduncle bending. Floral reorientation restores pollination accuracy and fit with pollinators. However, experimental floral misorientation in eight species with radially symmetrical flowers showed that, with one exception, they had little capacity to reorient their flowers, in line with expectations that the orientation of radially symmetrical flowers does not substantially affect pollination accuracy.

Our results suggest that quick corrective reorientation of bilaterally symmetrical flowers is adaptive, highlighting a little‐studied aspect of plant–pollinator interactions and plant evolution.
Reassessing plant glyoxalases: large family and expanding functions
Authors: Singla‐Pareek Sneh L. , Kaur Charanpreet , Kumar Brijesh , Pareek Ashwani , Sopory Sudhir K.
Published: April 2020

Methylglyoxal (MG), a reactive carbonyl compound, is generated during metabolism in living systems. However, under stress, its levels increase rapidly leading to cellular toxicity. Although the generation of MG is spontaneous in a cell, its detoxification is essentially catalyzed by the glyoxalase enzymes. In plants, modulation of MG content via glyoxalases influences diverse physiological functions ranging from regulating growth and development to conferring stress tolerance. Interestingly, there has been a preferred expansion in the number of isoforms of these enzymes in plants, giving them high plasticity in their actions for accomplishing diverse roles. Future studies need to focus on unraveling the interplay of these multiple isoforms of glyoxalases possibly contributing towards the unique adaptability of plants to diverse environments.
Interactions between macrophages and helminths
Authors: Coakley Gillian , Harris Nicola Laraine
Published: April 2020

Macrophages, the major population of tissue‐resident mononuclear phagocytes, contribute significantly to the immune response during helminth infection. Alternatively activated macrophages (AAM) are induced early in the anti‐helminth response following tissue insult and parasite recognition, amplifying the early type 2 immune cascade initiated by epithelial cells and ILC2s, and subsequently driving parasite expulsion. AAM also contribute to functional alterations in tissues infiltrated with helminth larvae, mediating both tissue repair and inflammation. Their activation is amplified and occurs more rapidly following reinfection, where they can play a dual role in trapping tissue migratory larvae and preventing or resolving the associated inflammation and damage. In this review, we will address both the known and emerging roles of tissue macrophages during helminth infection, in addition to considering both outstanding research questions and new therapeutic strategies.
Role of early definitive management for newly diagnosed malignant pleural effusion related to lung cancer
Authors: Chiang Ka‐Yan , Ho James Chung‐Man , Chong Peony , Tam Terence Chi‐Chun , Lam David Chi‐Leung , Ip Mary Sau‐Man , Lee Yun‐Chor Gary , Lui Macy Mei‐Sze
Published: April 2020

Background and objective

The advent of effective anti‐cancer therapy has brought about uncertainty on the benefit of early definitive measures for newly diagnosed MPE from lung cancer. This study aims to investigate the outcomes of MPE in this setting.

Methods

Lung cancer patients with MPE at first presentation to a tertiary care hospital were followed up till death or censored from 2011 to 2018. Early MPE control measures included chemical pleurodesis or IPC before or shortly after oncological treatment. Predictors of time to MPE re‐intervention were identified with Cox proportional hazard analyses.

Results

Of the 509 records screened, 233 subjects were eligible. One hundred and twenty‐seven subjects received oral targeted therapy as first‐line treatment and 34 (26.8%) underwent early definitive MPE control measures. Early MPE control measures in addition to targeted therapy, as compared to targeted therapy alone, significantly reduced the subsequent need of MPE re‐intervention (23.5% vs 53.8%, P = 0.002). Similar benefits from MPE control measures were found in groups receiving systemic anti‐cancer therapy or best supportive care (0% vs 52%, P = 0.003; 18% vs 56.7%, P = 0.024, respectively). In the group with targetable mutations, both early MPE control measures (HR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.12–0.53, P < 0.001) and the use of targeted therapy (HR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.10–0.46, P < 0.001) were independently associated with longer time to MPE re‐interventions.

Conclusion

Early MPE control measures in lung cancer has additional benefits on reducing the need and prolonging the time to MPE re‐intervention, independent of anti‐cancer therapies.
Partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage in patients presenting with suspected pulmonary hypertension: A series of 90 patients from the ASPIRE registry
Authors: Lewis Robert A. , Billings Catherine G. , Bolger Aidan , Bowater Sarah , Charalampopoulos Athanasios , Clift Paul , Elliot Charlie A. , English Kate , Hamilton Neil , Hill Catherine , Hurdman Judith , Jenkins Petra J. , Johns Christopher , MacDonald Simon , Oliver James , Papaioannou Vasilios , Rajaram Smitha , Sabroe Ian , Swift Andy J. , Thompson A.A. Roger , Kiely David G. , Condliffe Robin
Published: April 2020

Background and objective

There are limited data regarding patients with PAPVD with suspected and diagnosed PH.

Methods

Patients with PAPVD presenting to a large PH referral centre during 2007–2017 were identified from the ASPIRE registry.

Results

Ninety patients with PAPVD were identified; this was newly diagnosed at our unit in 71 patients (78%), despite 69% of these having previously undergone CT. Sixty‐seven percent had a single right superior and 23% a single left superior anomalous vein. Patients with an SV‐ASD had a significantly larger RV area, pulmonary artery and L‐R shunt and a higher % predicted DLCO (all P < 0.05). Sixty‐five patients were diagnosed with PH (defined as mPAP ≥ 25 mm Hg), which was post‐capillary in 24 (37%). No additional causes of PH were identified in 28 patients; 17 of these (26% of those patients with PH) had a PVR > 3 WU. Seven of these patients had isolated PAPVD, five of whom (8% of those patients with PH) had anomalous drainage of a single pulmonary vein.

Conclusion

Undiagnosed PAPVD with or without ASD may be present in patients with suspected PH; cross‐sectional imaging should therefore be specifically assessed whenever this diagnosis is considered. Radiological and physiological markers of L‐R shunt are higher in patients with an associated SV‐ASD. Although many patients with PAPVD and PH may have other potential causes of PH, a proportion of patients diagnosed with PAH have isolated PAPVD in the absence of other causative conditions.
HLA‐DQB1*06:132, an HLA‐DQB1*06 variant, discovered in a Singaporean Malay bone marrow donor
Authors: Cho Louise , Kaur Ashminder , Cereb Nezih , Lin Py‐Yu , Yang Kuo‐Liang
Published: April 2020

One nucleotide substitution in codon 38 of HLA‐DQB1*06:01:01:01 results in a novel allele, HLA‐DQB1*06:132.
Full‐length sequence of a novel allele, HLA‐B*40:01:45, identified in a patient with hepatitis B infection
Authors: Zhang Yang‐Yang , Nie Dong‐Mei , SuQing Gao
Published: April 2020

HLA‐B*40:01:45 differs from HLA‐B*40:01:02 by a single nucleotide change in exon 1, 33 G > A (codon −14 CTG > CTA).
Acral congenital superficial dermal lymphatic malformations in two unrelated cats: clinicopathological, dermoscopic and ultrastructural findings
Authors: Legnani Sara , Abramo Francesca , Zanna Giordana , Graziano Lisa , Cornegliani Luisa , Roccabianca Paola
Published: April 2020

Background

Cutaneous vascular malformations (CVM) represent a spectrum of human diseases identified at birth or in paediatric patients and classified according to the type of vessel affected. Confusing classification in human medicine has led to misdiagnoses and frequent nomenclature revision. Cutaneous lymphatic malformations (CLM) are reported sporadically in humans.

Objective

To describe the clinicopathological findings of superficial dermal cutaneous lymphatic malformations (SDCLM) in two cats.

Animals

Two unrelated adult domestic short hair cats.

Methods

The two cats were evaluated clinically and with a dermoscope for recurrent swelling and presence of vesicles oozing serosanguineous fluid affecting the right and left hind foot, respectively, since birth. Skin biopsy specimens were collected for histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation and electron microscopy.

Results

A CVM was suspected based on the age of onset, clinical signs, results of diagnostic imaging and histopathological findings. Dermoscopy was used to describe the alterations of the skin surface. The involvement of the lymphatic vessels was confirmed using immunohistochemical findings and electron microscopy.

Conclusion and clinical importance

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first description of the clinical, dermoscopic, histopathological and ultrastructural characteristics of SDCLM in cats resembling the human counterpart. SDCLMs are rare conditions and appropriate histopathological and immunohistochemical confirmation is required to avoid misdiagnosis and mistreatment.
Red‐blood‐cell alloimmunization and prophylactic antigen matching for transfusion in patients with warm autoantibodies
Authors: Delaney Meghan , Apelseth Torunn Oveland , Bonet Bub Carolina , Cohn Claudia S. , Dunbar Nancy M. , Mauro Kutner Jose , Murphy Michael , Perelman Iris , Selleng Kathleen , Staves Julie , Wendel Silvano , Ziman Alyssa ,   the Biomedical Excellence for Safer Transfusion (BEST) Collaborative
Published: April 2020

Background

Warm autoantibodies (WAA) are antibodies that react with an antigen on a patient’s own red‐blood‐cells and can complicate compatibility testing whether or not they cause clinical haemolysis. The goal of this study was to understand the overall prevalence of WAA, the risk of RBC alloimmunization and determine whether RBC selection practices have an impact on alloimmunization.

Materials and methods

Records of patients (>1 year of age) with an indirect antibody detection test (IAT) and serologic evidence of WAA over a 10‐year‐period were included. Eight centres from 5 countries collectively reviewed 1 122 245 patients who had an IAT.

Results

Of patients having IAT, 1214 had WAA (0·17%). Transfusion information for 1002 of the patients was available; 631 were transfused after identification of the WAA (63%); of the transfused patients, 390 received prophylactic antigen‐matched (PAM) RBCs and 241 did not. Of the 372 patients with WAA who were transfused and had serologic testing 30+ days following transfusion (30–2765 days), 56 developed new RBC alloimmunization (15·1%). Patients who were transfused using a PAM strategy were not protected from new RBC alloimmunization [14·6% (31 of 212 patients) having PAM transfusion approach compared with those not receiving PAM approach (15·6%, 25 of 160 patients, P = 0·8837)].

Conclusions

The prevalence of WAA in patients having an IAT is low (<1%). A significant portion of patients with WAA form new RBC alloimmunization (15·1%); however, the use of PAM approach for RBC selection was not found to be protective against new alloimmunization.
Bayesian Mixture Poisson Regression for Modeling Spatial Point Pattern of Primary Health Centers in Surabaya
Authors: Murniati Tri , Iriawan Nur , Prastyo Dedy Dwi
Published: April 2020

Primary Health Centres (PHC) are the first referral health facilities for Indonesian people to seek treatment. The varying distribution of PHC location in central Surabaya, therefore, causes its process to follow the Non-homogeneous Poisson Point Process (NHPP). We use Bayesian analysis coupled with Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) to model the mixture Poisson regression on NHPP intensity estimation. The result shows that two mixture components are significantly involved in the model along with four variables; i.e., the total population, the number of clean households, Accessibility Index, and the length of road; that produce the smallest Deviance Information Criteria (DIC).  Keywords: Bayesian Analysis; Mixture Poisson Regression; NHPP Intensity; Primary Health Centres
Surabaya Government Performance Evaluation Using Tweet Analysis
Authors: Fithriasari Kartika , Mayasari Rakhmah Wahyu , Iriawan Nur , Winahju Wiwiek Setya
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this research is to determine the various positive attributes appreciated by the public, and the negative things that need to be improved by the Surabaya government. The sentiment analysis methods, including the Naïve Bayes Classifier, Support Vector Machine, and Logistic Regression, are employed to classify the pros and cons of the Surabaya government. The comparison of the three methods demonstrated that SVM gives the best classification accuracy compared to others. Police performance is the highlighted word in the positive category, while traffic congestion is in the negative.
Multiferroic nanoparticles of Ni doped CoCr2O4: An XPS study
Authors: Mohanty Pankaj , Geetha Ganga B. , Carleschi Emanuela , Sheppard Charles J. , Prinsloo Aletta R. E.
Published: April 2020

Three spinel compounds, namely CoCr2O4, (Co0.75Ni0.25)Cr2O4, and (Co0.5Ni0.5)Cr2O4 were investigated using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy techniques. These compounds were synthesized using sol-gel techniques. The gel was dried and subsequently calcined at 600 °C to achieve crystallinity and the correct cubic phase. The survey scans of the analyzed samples with detailed spectra of the Co 2p, Ni 2p, Cr 2p, O 1s, and the valence band were collected. The core levels are found to be asymmetric and have multiple components. Ni and Co have 2+/3+ oxidation states, whereas Cr prefers 3+ oxidation state. The O 1s core level demonstrates three components. The low binding energy component refers to the lattice oxygen atoms, whereas the two high binding energy components correspond to the surface adsorbed hydroxyl groups resulting from water and the alcohol used for the synthesis of these nanoparticles. The data emanating from this study are reported.
Acoustic radiation torque exerted on a subwavelength spheroidal particle by a traveling and standing plane wave
Authors: Leão-Neto José P. , Lopes José H. , Silva Glauber T.
Published: April 2020

The nonlinear interaction of ultrasonic waves with a nonspherical particle may give rise to the acoustic radiation torque on the particle. This phenomenon is investigated here considering a rigid prolate spheroidal particle of subwavelength dimensions that is much smaller than the wavelength. Using the partial wave expansion in spheroidal coordinates, the radiation torque of a traveling and standing plane wave with arbitrary orientation is exactly derived in the dipole approximation. In this paper, asymptotic expressions of the torque as the particle geometry approaches a sphere and a straight line are obtained. As the particle is trapped in a pressure node of a standing plane wave, its radiation torque equals that of a traveling plane wave. This paper also finds how the torque changes with the particle aspect ratio. The findings in this paper are in excellent agreement with previous numerical computations. Also, by analyzing the torque potential energy, the stable and unstable spatial configurations available for the particle are determined.
Transferable Resistance Gene
optrA
in Enterococcus faecalis from Swine in Brazil
Authors: Almeida Lara M. , Lebreton François , Gaca Anthony , Bispo Paulo M. , Saavedra Jose T. , Calumby Rodrigo N. , Grillo Luciano M. , Nascimento Ticiano G. , Filsner Pedro H. , Moreno Andrea M. , Gilmore Michael S.
Published: April 2020

OptrA is an ATP-binding cassette (ABC)-F protein that confers resistance to oxazolidinones and phenicols and can be either plasmid-encoded or chromosomally encoded. Here, we isolated 13
Enterococcus faecalis
strains possessing a linezolid MIC of ≥4 mg/liter from nursery pigs in swine herds located across Brazil. Genome sequence comparison showed that these strains possess
optrA
in different genetic contexts occurring in 5 different
E. faecalis
sequence type backgrounds.
Multiple Stressors Determine Community Structure and Estimated Function of River Biofilm Bacteria
Authors: Romero Ferran , Acuña Vicenç , Sabater Sergi
Published: April 2020

Freshwater ecosystems such as rivers are of crucial importance for human well-being. However, human activities result in many stressors (e.g., toxic chemicals, increased water temperatures, and hydrological alterations) cooccurring in rivers and streams worldwide. Among the many organisms inhabiting rivers and streams, bacteria are ecologically crucial; they are placed at the base of virtually all food webs and they recycle the organic matter needed for bigger organisms. Most of these bacteria are in close contact with river substratum, where they form the biofilms. There is an urgent need to evaluate the effects of these stressors on river biofilms, so we can anticipate future environmental problems. In this study, we experimentally exposed river biofilms to a pesticide mixture, an increase in water temperature and a simulated low-flow condition, in order to evaluate the individual and joint effects of these stressors on the bacterial community composition and estimated function.
Development of an RNA Strand-Specific Hybridization Assay To Differentiate Replicating versus Nonreplicating Influenza A Viruses
Authors: Yang Genyan , Hodges Erin N. , Winter Jörn , Zanders Natosha , Shcherbik Svetlana , Bousse Tatiana , Murray Janna R. , Muraduzzaman A. K. M. , Rahman Mahbubur , Alamgir A. S. M. , Flora Meerjady Sabrina , Blanton Lenee , Barnes John R. , Wentworth David E. , Davis C. Todd
Published: April 2020

Replication of influenza A virus (IAV) from negative-sense viral RNA (vRNA) requires the generation of positive-sense RNA (+RNA). Most molecular assays, such as conventional real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (rRT-PCR), detect total RNA in a sample without differentiating vRNA from +RNA. These assays are not designed to distinguish IAV infection versus exposure of an individual to an environment enriched with IAVs but wherein no viral replication occurs. We therefore developed a strand-specific hybridization (SSH) assay that differentiates between vRNA and +RNA and quantifies relative levels of each RNA species.
KDM6A-Mediated Expression of the Long Noncoding RNA DINO Causes TP53 Tumor Suppressor Stabilization in Human Papillomavirus 16 E7-Expressing Cells
Authors: Sharma Surendra , Munger Karl
Published: April 2020

Viral oncoproteins, including HPV16 E6 and E7, have been instrumental in elucidating the activities of cellular signaling networks, including those governed by the TP53 tumor suppressor. Our study demonstrates that the long noncoding RNA DINO is the long-sought missing link between HPV16 E7 and elevated TP53 levels. Importantly, the TP53-stabilizing DINO plays a critical role in the cell death response of HPV16 E7-expressing cells to metabolic stress or DNA damage.
Midwifery students’ retention of learning after screen-based simulation training on neonatal resuscitation: a pilot study
Authors: Barré Jessy , Michelet Daphné , Truchot Jennifer , Cabon Philippe , Tesniere Antoine
Published: April 2020

Simulation in medical education is widely used to teach both technical and non-technical skills. The use of tools such as screen-based simulation raises the question of their efficiency and the retention rate for knowledge and skills. In this study, we measured midwives’ retention of learning after screen-based simulation training on neonatal resuscitation. 14 midwifery students participated in this pilot study. They undertook two screen-based simulation sessions 2 months apart. Measurements included a knowledge quiz, a self-efficacy assessment and two experts’ evaluations of the Anaesthetists’ Non-Technical Skills (ANTS) and Neonatal Resuscitation Performance Evaluation (NRPE) scoring (non-technical and technical skills, respectively). A demographic survey with open-ended questions on professional experience and learning concluded the study. We showed an improvement in the self-efficacy assessment (p<0.05), the knowledge quiz (p<0.01) and the ANTS evaluation (p<0.0001). However, there was no significant difference in the NRPE score. The students enjoyed the apprenticeship aspect of the screen-based simulation. Repeated exposure to a screen-based simulation on neonatal resuscitation could be advantageous for non-technical skills training, self-confidence and retention of knowledge. This is still a work in progress, undergoing further investigation with more participants and new variables.
Deidentification of facial photographs: a survey of editorial policies and practices
Authors: Roguljić Marija , Buljan Ivan , Veček Nika , Dragun Ružica , Marušić Matko , Wager Elizabeth , Marušić Ana
Published: April 2020

We analysed all journals from two Journal Citation Reports (JCR) categories: ‘Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Medicine’ and ‘Otorhinolaryngology’ published in 2018 for their policies on publishing facial photographs and actual practices of publishing these photographs in articles. We extracted the following data for each journal: JCR category, impact factor, volume, issue, instructions for authors regarding ethical issues, instructions for photograph deidentification, journals’ references to standard research and publishing policies, presence and type of published clinical images, separate informed consent for the publication of patient photograph and methods of deidentification. The sample included 103 journals, which published 568 articles with 1404 clinical images. Around a half of the journals (52%) had a policy on clinical images, however, the only predictor of having a journal policy on clinical images was reference in the policy to International Committee of Medical Journal Editors Recommendations (OR=3.00, 95% CI 1.26 to 7.14, p=0.013). Identifiable patient photographs were found in 13% (79/568) of the articles, constituting 9% (128/1404) of the total sample of images. Only 16% (13/79) of articles publishing recognisable patient facial images included a statement about consent for publication of the image. From the total sample of articles, 34% (27/79) contained deidentified but recognisable patient photographs and only 22% (6/27) of them had a statement about patient consent for photograph publication. The patients’ consent was more likely stated in the article in cases of recognisable facial images (OR=2.81, 95% CI 1.41 to 5.63, p=0.004). Journals publishing clinical research involving the face and neck region need to establish and enforce policies on publishing clinical images.
Prognostic impacts of changes in left ventricular ejection fraction in heart failure patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Yoshihisa Akiomi , Sato Yu , Kanno Yuki , Takiguchi Mai , Yokokawa Tetsuro , Abe Satoshi , Misaka Tomofumi , Sato Takamasa , Oikawa Masayoshi , Kobayashi Atsushi , Yamaki Takayoshi , Kunii Hiroyuki , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: April 2020

Background

It has been reported that recovery of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is associated with better prognosis in heart failure (HF) patients with reduced EF (rEF). However, change of LVEF has not yet been investigated in cases of HF with preserved EF (HFpEF).

Methods and results

Consecutive 1082 HFpEF patients, who had been admitted to hospital due to decompensated HF (EF >50% at the first LVEF assessment at discharge), were enrolled, and LVEF was reassessed within 6 months in the outpatient setting (second LVEF assessment). Among the HFpEF patients, LVEF of 758 patients remained above 50% (pEF group), 138 patients had LVEF of 40%–49% (midrange EF, mrEF group) and 186 patients had LVEF of less than 40% (rEF group). In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, younger age and presence of higher levels of troponin I were predictors of rEF (worsened HFpEF). In the Kaplan-Meier analysis, the cardiac event rate of the groups progressively increased from pEF, mrEF to rEF (log-rank, p<0.001), whereas all-cause mortality did not significantly differ among the groups. In the multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis, rEF (vs pEF) was not a predictor of all-cause mortality, but an independent predictor of increased cardiac event rates (HR 1.424, 95% CI 1.020 to 1.861, p=0.039).

Conclusion

An initial assessment of LVEF and LVEF changes are important for deciding treatment and predicting prognosis in HFpEF patients. In addition, several confounding factors are associated with LVEF changes in worsened HFpEF patients.
Hydrolysis and Solvolysis as Benign Routes for the End-of-Life Management of Thermoset Polymer Waste
Authors: Shen Minjie , Cao Hongda , Robertson Megan L.
Published: April 2020

The production of thermoset polymers is increasing globally owing to their advantageous properties, particularly when applied as composite materials. Though these materials are traditionally used in more durable, longer-lasting applications, ultimately, they become waste at the end of their usable lifetimes. Current recycling practices are not applicable to traditional thermoset waste, owing to their network structures and lack of processability. Recently, researchers have been developing thermoset polymers with the right functionalities to be chemically degraded under relatively benign conditions postuse, providing a route to future management of thermoset waste. This review presents thermosets containing hydrolytically or solvolytically cleavable bonds, such as esters and acetals. Hydrolysis and solvolysis mechanisms are discussed, and various factors that influence the degradation rates are examined. Degradable thermosets with impressive mechanical, thermal, and adhesion behavior are discussed, illustrating that the design of material end-of-life need not limit material performance.
Real-time Nonlinear Model Predictive Control (NMPC) Strategies using Physics-Based Models for Advanced Lithium-ion Battery Management System (BMS)
Authors: Kolluri Suryanarayana , Aduru Sai Varun , Pathak Manan , Braatz Richard D. , Subramanian Venkat R.
Published: April 2020

Optimal operation of lithium-ion batteries requires robust battery models for advanced battery management systems (ABMS). A nonlinear model predictive control strategy is proposed that directly employs the pseudo-two-dimensional (P2D) model for making predictions. Using robust and efficient model simulation algorithms developed previously, the computational time of the nonlinear model predictive control algorithm is quantified, and the ability to use such models for nonlinear model predictive control for ABMS is established.
Study of the Role of LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2/Graphite Li-Ion Pouch Cells Confinement, Electrolyte Composition and Separator Coating on Thermal Runaway and Off-Gas Toxicity
Authors: Forestier Coralie , Lecocq Amandine , Zantman Aurélien , Grugeon Sylvie , Sannier Lucas , Marlair Guy , Laruelle Stephane
Published: April 2020

A reliable heating device coupled with a FTIR gas analyzer has been tailored with the aim of evaluating the role of state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery components and environmental conditions on thermal and toxic hazards. Here, we demonstrate its effectiveness in accurately assessing the role of fully charged 0.6 Ah pouch cells confinement, electrolyte composition and separator coating on heat release and toxic gas generation-related risks. The fire safety international standards developed by the ISO TC92 SC3 subcommittee were used to determine the asphyxiant and irritant gases toxicity. Cells tighting confinement proves to be a very efficient way to diminish and delay (from 180 to 245 °C) the thermal runaway phenomenon occurrence and relating toxic gas release. Vinylene carbonate as electrolyte additive is able to shift (+20 °C) the onset temperature, while substitution of 1/3 M LiPF6 by LiFSI does not modify the thermal behavior, nor the toxic risks. The coating of a tri-layer separator influences the irritant gas toxicity related risk, by decreasing fluorinated components release. This study highlights that some improvements regarding LIB safety can be achieved through appropriate component selection and cells integration design at a module/pack level.
Small molecules, big effects: microbial metabolites in intestinal immunity
Authors: Glotfelty Lila G. , Wong Andrea C. , Levy Maayan
Published: April 2020

The mammalian intestine is host to a vast number of microbial organisms. The immune system must balance tolerance with innate and adaptive defense mechanisms to maintain homeostasis with the microbial community. Interestingly, microbial metabolites have been shown to play a role in shaping the host immune response, thus assisting with adaptations that have significant implications for human health and disease. New investigations have uncovered roles for metabolites in modulating almost every aspect of the immune system. In this minireview, we survey these recent findings, which taken together reveal nuanced interactions that we are just beginning to understand.
Expression of XBP1s in B lymphocytes is critical for pristane-induced lupus nephritis in mice
Authors: Xiang Li , Liu An , Xu Guoshuang
Published: April 2020

B lymphocyte hyperactivity plays a pathogenic role in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and spliced X box-binding protein 1 (XBP1s) has been implicated in B cell maturation and differentiation. We hypothesized that blockade of the XBP1s pathway inhibits the B cell hyperactivity underlying SLE and lupus nephritis (LN) development. In the present study, we systematically evaluated the changes in B cell activation induced by the Xbp1 splicing inhibitor STF083010 in a pristane-induced lupus mouse model. The lupus mouse model was successfully established, as indicated by the presence of LN with markedly increased urine protein levels, renal deposition of Ig, and mesangial cell proliferation. In lupus mice, B cell hyperactivity was confirmed by increased CD40 and B cell-activating factor levels. B cell activation and plasma cell overproduction were determined by increases in CD40-positive and CD138-positive cells in the spleens of lupus mice by flow cytometry and further confirmed by CD45R and Ig light chain staining in the splenic tissues of lupus mice. mRNA and protein expression of XBP1s in B cells was assessed by real-time PCR, Western blot analysis, and immunofluorescence analysis and was increased in lupus mice. In addition, almost all changes were reversed by STF083010 treatment. However, the expression of XBP1s in the kidneys did not change when mice were exposed to pristane and STF083010. Taken together, these findings suggest that expression of XBP1s in B cells plays key roles in SLE and LN development. Blockade of the XBP1s pathway may be a potential strategy for SLE and LN treatment.
The Expression of IL-12 Family Members in Patients with Hypertension and Its Association with the Occurrence of Carotid Atherosclerosis
Authors: Ye Jing , Wang Yuan , Wang Zhen , Liu Ling , Yang Zicong , Wang Menglong , Xu Yao , Ye Di , Zhang Jishou , Zhou Qi , Lin Yingzhong , Ji Qingwei , Wan Jun
Published: April 2020

Background. The interleukin-12 (IL-12) family consists of four members, namely, IL-12, IL-23, IL-27, and IL-35. The aim of this study was to examine the expression of circulating IL-12, IL-23, IL-27, and IL-35 in hypertensive patients. Methods. Blood samples were collected from hypertensive patients and nonhypertensive (control) subjects, and protein multifactorial monitor kits were used to measure the plasma IL-12, IL-23, IL-27, and IL-35 levels in each sample. In addition, all enrolled subjects underwent ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) and vascular stiffness. Results. Hypertensive patients exhibited higher IL-12, IL-23, and IL-27 levels and lower IL-35 levels than control subjects; IL-12, IL-23, and IL-27 levels were positively correlated with both systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), while IL-35 levels were negatively correlated with SBP and DBP. IL-12, IL-23, and IL-27 levels gradually increased in patients with grade I, II, and III hypertension, while IL-35 levels gradually reduced. According to the ABPM results, hypertensive patients were divided into the dipper and nondipper hypertension groups; IL-12, IL-23, IL-27, and IL-35 levels showed no differences between the two groups, but IL-12, IL-23, and IL-27 levels in both groups increased compared with those in the control group, while IL-35 levels decreased. Additionally, the expression of these IL-12 family members was influenced by many clinical factors and was independently associated with the occurrence of carotid atherosclerotic plaques. Conclusions. The changes in IL-12, IL-23, IL-27, and IL-35 levels were not associated with the presence of the nondipper type but were closely associated with the development of carotid atherosclerotic plaque in hypertensive patients.