bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluations of acoustic damping performances of double-layer in-duct perforated plates at low Mach and Helmholtz number
Authors: Guan Di , Zhao Dan , Li Junwei , Li J.
Published: November 2019

In this work, acoustic damping performances of double-layer in-duct perforated plates are studied at low Mach (Ma) and Helmholtz number (He) to evaluate the effects of (1)  Ma, (2) the porosities (i.e., open-area ratio) σ1 and σ2 of the front and back plates, and (3) the axial distance Lc between these two plates. The orifices’ damping is characterized by sound absorption coefficient α denoting the fraction of incident sound energy being absorbed. For this, a quasi-steady acoustic model is developed first and experiments are then conducted. When Ma = 0, α is experimentally found to oscillate with He, whatever the porosities of σ1 and σ2 are set. However, when Ma is increased to and above 0.037, the power absorption troughs, i.e., local αmin of the double-layer plates with σ1,2 ≤ 9% are more separated and shallower. Furthermore, when σ1 = 9% or σ2 = 9%, the damping performances are quite different in terms of the local αmax peaks and their number. In addition, increasing Lc with respect to the downstream pipe length Ld gives rise to an increase of αmin and αmax by 10%. Finally, the double-layer plates are shown to involve a larger α than that of single-layer one over a broader He range.
Articulatory and acoustic characteristics of the Korean and English word-final laterals produced by Korean female learners of American English
Authors: Hwang Young , Lulich Steven M. , de Jong Kenneth J.
Published: November 2019

English [ɫ] exhibits retracted tongue dorsum and low F2 frequencies compared to Korean [l], but is frequently asserted to be perceptually similar to Korean [l] and therefore difficult for Korean learners to acquire due to articulatory transfer. This study examines the articulatory and acoustic characteristics of Korean and English word-final laterals produced by Korean learners. Korean learners' productions of English [ɫ] were systematically different from Korean [l], with retracted tongue dorsum and low F2 similar to L1 English [ɫ]. The findings suggest Korean learners form a distinct phonetic category for English [ɫ] rather than modifying an existing Korean category.
Susceptibility of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Recovered from Cystic Fibrosis Patients to Murepavadin and 13 Comparator Antibiotics
Authors: Ekkelenkamp Miquel B. , Cantón Rafael , Díez-Aguilar María , Tunney Michael M. , Gilpin Deirdre F. , Bernardini Francesca , Dale Glenn E. , Elborn J. Stuart , Bayjanov Jumamurat R. , Fluit Ad
Published: November 2019

The objective was to determine the
in vitro
antimicrobial susceptibility of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
isolates cultured from cystic fibrosis (CF) patients and explore associations between strain sequence type and susceptibility. Fourteen antibiotics and antibiotic combinations, including the novel antibacterial peptide murepavadin, were tested for activity against 414
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
isolates cultured from respiratory samples of CF patients.
Molecular Basis of Binding between Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus and CD26 from Seven Bat Species
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Qi Jianxun , Peng Ruchao , Li Chunrui , Lu Guangwen , Yan Jinghua , Wang Qihui , Gao George Fu
Published: November 2019

In this study, we found that bat CD26s (bCD26s) from different species exhibit large diversities, especially in the region responsible for binding to the receptor binding domain (RBD) of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). However, they maintain the interaction with MERS-RBD at varied affinities and support the entry of pseudotyped MERS-CoV. These bat receptors polymorphisms seem to confer evolutionary pressure for the adaptation of CD26-binding virus, such as the ancestor of MERS-CoV, and led to the generation of diversified CD26-engaging CoV strains. Thus, our data add more evidence to support that bats are the reservoir of MERS-CoV and similar viruses, as well as further emphasize the necessity to survey MERS-CoV and other CoVs among bats.
Identification and Characterization of the Nucleolar Localization Signal of Autographa californica Multiple Nucleopolyhedrovirus LEF5
Authors: Chen Guoqing , Yan Qing , Wang Haoran , Chao Shufen , Wu Lijuan , Krell Peter J. , Feng Guozhong
Published: November 2019

Many viruses, including human and plant viruses, target nucleolar functions as part of their infection strategy. However, nucleolar localization for baculovirus proteins has not yet been characterized. In this study, two nucleolar proteins, SfNS and SfFBL, were identified in Sf9 cells. Our results showed that Autographa californica multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (AcMNPV) infection resulted in redistribution of the nucleoli of infected cells. We demonstrated that AcMNPV late expression factor 5 (LEF5) could localize to the nucleolus and contains a nucleolar localization signal (NoLS), which is important for nucleolar localization of AcMNPV LEF5 and for production of viral progeny and yield of occlusion bodies.
The Toxin-Antitoxin MazEF Drives Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm Formation, Antibiotic Tolerance, and Chronic Infection
Authors: Ma Dongzhu , Mandell Jonathan B. , Donegan Niles P. , Cheung Ambrose L. , Ma Wanyan , Rothenberger Scott , Shanks Robert M. Q. , Richardson Anthony R. , Urish Kenneth L.
Published: November 2019

Surgical infections are one of the most common types of infections encountered in a hospital.
Staphylococcus aureus
is the most common pathogen associated with this infection. These infections are resilient and difficult to eradicate, as the bacteria form biofilm, a community of bacteria held together by an extracellular matrix. Compared to bacteria that are planktonic, bacteria in a biofilm are more resistant to antibiotics. The mechanism behind how bacteria develop this resistance and establish a chronic infection is unknown. We demonstrate that
mazEF
, a toxin-antitoxin gene, inhibits biofilm formation and promotes biofilm antibiotic tolerance which allows
S. aureus
to transition from an acute to chronic infection that cannot be eradicated with antibiotics but is less virulent. This gene not only makes the bacteria more tolerant to antibiotics but makes the bacteria more tolerant to the host.
A Heat-Killed
Cryptococcus
Mutant Strain Induces Host Protection against Multiple Invasive Mycoses in a Murine Vaccine Model
Authors: Wang Yina , Wang Keyi , Masso-Silva Jorge A. , Rivera Amariliz , Xue Chaoyang
Published: November 2019

Invasive fungal infections kill more than 1.5 million people each year, with limited treatment options. There is no vaccine available in clinical use to prevent and control fungal infections. Our recent studies showed that a mutant of the F-box protein Fbp1, a subunit of the SCF(Fbp1) E3 ligase in
Cryptococcus neoformans
, elicited superior protective Th1 host immunity. Here, we demonstrate that the heat-killed
fbp1
Δ cells (HK-fbp1) can be harnessed to confer protection against a challenge by the virulent parental strain, even in animals depleted of CD4
+
T cells. This finding is particularly important in the context of HIV/AIDS-induced immune deficiency. Moreover, we observed that HK-fbp1 vaccination induces significant cross-protection against challenge with diverse invasive fungal pathogens. Thus, our data suggest that HK-fbp1 has the potential to be a broad-spectrum vaccine candidate against invasive fungal infections in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised populations.
Non-commutative unique factorization rings with zero-divisors
Authors: Naser A. , Fahmy M. H. , Hassanein A. M.
Published: November 2019

It was shown by Galovich that if [Formula: see text] is a commutative unique factorization ring (UFR) with identity, then [Formula: see text] is a local ring with a nil maximal ideal. In this paper, we generalize Galovich’s results to the non-commutative case.
Dynamical analysis of a two-species competitive system with state feedback impulsive control
Authors: Xu Jing , Huang Mingzhan , Song Xinyu
Published: November 2019

In this paper, three competitive systems with different kinds of state-dependent control are presented and investigated. The existence of the order-1 homoclinic orbit and order-1 periodic solution of the two systems that incorporate just one kind of state-dependent control is obtained by applying differential equation geometry theory, and the stability of the order-1 periodic solution of each system is also given. Besides, sufficient conditions for the existence and stability of the order-2 periodic solution of the system that incorporate two kinds of state-dependent control are gained by successor function method and analogue of Poincaré criterion, respectively. Finally, numerical simulations are carried out to verify the theoretical results.
Word Reordering for Translation into Korean Sign Language Using Syntactically-guided Classification
Authors: Jung Hun-Young , Lee Jong-Hyeok , Min Eunju , Na Seung-Hoon
Published: November 2019

Machine translation aims to break the language barrier that prevents communication with others and increase access to information. Deaf people face huge language barriers in their daily lives, including access to digital and spoken information. There are very few digital resources for sign language processing. In this article, we present a transfer-based machine translation system for translating Korean-to-Korean Sign Language (KSL) glosses, mainly composed of (1) dictionary-based lexical transfer and (2) a hybrid syntactic transfer based on a data-driven model. In particular, we formulate complicated word reordering problems in syntactic transfer as multi-class classification tasks and propose “syntactically guided” data-driven syntactic transfer. The core part of our study is a neural classification model for reordering order-important constituent pairs with a reordering task that is newly designed for Korean-to-KSL translation. The experiment results evaluated on news transcript data show that the proposed system achieves a BLEU score of 0.512 and a RIBES score of 0.425, significantly improving upon the baseline system performance.
Havana's StreetNet: Innovation from necessity
Authors: Dye Michaelanne
Published: November 2019

In Havana, technology enthusiasts have designed StreetNet, a community network that serves as an alternative to the worldwide web. This article describes the deeply relational practices that go toward the maintenance of StreetNet, highlighting elements of struggle that accompany innovative strategies that result from necessity.
The past and present: A push toward the good life
Authors: Habonimana Cynthia , Namara Moses
Published: November 2019

In this article, we contemplate how African communities, based on their unique experiences and backgrounds, can increasingly become producers and participants in the technology development process; a step beyond just being end-users.
Artificial intelligence policies in Africa over the next five years
Authors: Nayebare Micheal
Published: November 2019

As Africa embraces and interacts with AI, what policies are relevant to foster its development? This article highlights some domains where AI is being applied and will be beneficial given Africa's unique context and culture.
RNA Modifications in Cancer: Functions, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Huang Huilin , Weng Hengyou , Deng Xiaolan , Chen Jianjun
Published: November 2019

Over 170 chemical modifications have been identified in protein-coding and noncoding RNAs and shown to exhibit broad impacts on gene expression. Dysregulation of RNA modifications caused by aberrant expression of or mutations in RNA modifiers aberrantly reprograms the epitranscriptome and skews global gene expression, which in turn leads to tumorigenesis and drug resistance. Here we review current knowledge of the functions and underlying mechanisms of aberrant RNA modifications in human cancers, particularly several common RNA modifications, including N6-methyladenosine (m6A), A-to-I editing, pseudouridine (ψ), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (hm5C), N1-methyladenosine (m1A), and N4-acetylcytidine (ac4C), providing insights into therapeutic implications of targeting RNA modifications and the associated machineries for cancer therapy.
Measures of Racism, Sexism, Heterosexism, and Gender Binarism for Health Equity Research: From Structural Injustice to Embodied Harm—An Ecosocial Analysis
Authors: Krieger Nancy
Published: November 2019

Racism. Sexism. Heterosexism. Gender binarism. Together, they comprise intimately harmful, distinct, and entangled societal systems of self-serving domination and privilege that structure the embodiment of health inequities. Guided by the ecosocial theory of disease distribution, I synthesize key features of the specified “isms” and provide a measurement schema, informed by research from both the Global North and the Global South. Metrics discussed include ( a) structural, including explicit rules and laws, nonexplicit rules and laws, and area-based or institutional nonrule measures; and ( b) individual-level (exposures and internalized) measures, including explicit self-report, implicit, and experimental. Recommendations include ( a) expanding the use of structural measures to extend beyond the current primary emphasis on psychosocial individual-level measures; ( b) analyzing exposure in relation to both life course and historical generation; ( c) developing measures of anti-isms; and ( d) developing terrestrially grounded measures that can reveal links between the structural drivers of unjust isms and their toll on environmental degradation, climate change, and health inequities.
Impairment of electroneutral Na+transport and associated downregulation of NHE3 contributes to the development of diarrhea following in vivo challenge withBrachyspiraspp.
Authors: Enns Cole B. , Keith Brandon A. , Challa Nitin , Harding John C. S. , Loewen Matthew E.
Published: November 2019

The effect of Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira hampsonii spirochetosis on Na+transport was assessed in the colon to determine its contribution to diarrheal disease in pigs following experimental infection. Electrogenic and electroneutral Na+absorption was assessed in Ussing chambers by radiolabeled22Na flux and pharmacological inhibitory studies. Basal radiolabeled22Na flux experiments revealed that mucosal-to-serosal flux ( Jms) was significantly impaired in B. hyodysenteriae and B. hampsonii-diseased pigs. Inhibition of epithelial sodium channel via amiloride did not significantly reduce electrogenic short-circuit current ( Isc) in the proximal, apex, and distal colonic segments of diseased pigs over control pigs, suggesting that a loss of electroneutral Na+absorption is responsible for diarrheal development. These findings were further supported by significant downregulation of Na+/H+exchanger (NHE1, NHE2, and NHE3) mRNA expression in the proximal, apex, and distal colonic segments paired with decreased protein expression of the critical NHE3 isoform. The decrease in NHE3 mRNA expression appears not to be attributed to the host’s cytokine response as human IL-1α did not modify NHE3 mRNA expression in Caco-2 cells. However, a whole cell B. hampsonii lysate significantly downregulated NHE3 mRNA expression and significantly increased p38 phosphorylation in Caco-2 cells. Together these findings provide a likely mechanism for the spirochete-induced malabsorptive diarrhea, indicated by a decrease in electroneutral Na+absorption in the porcine colon due to Brachyspira’s ability to inhibit NHE3 transcription, resulting in diarrheal disease.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This research demonstrates that diarrheal disease caused by two infectious spirochete spp. is a result of impaired electroneutral Na+absorption via Na+/H+exchanger 3 (NHE3) in the porcine colon. Our findings suggest that the decrease in NHE3 mRNA and protein is not likely a result of the host’s cytokine response. Rather, it appears that these two Brachyspira spp. directly inhibit the transcription and translation of NHE3, resulting in the development of diarrhea.
Mechanosensor transient receptor potential vanilloid member 4 (TRPV4) regulates mouse cholangiocyte secretion and bile formation
Authors: Li Qin , Kresge Charles , Boggs Kristy , Scott Julie , Feranchak Andrew
Published: November 2019

Mechanosensitive signaling has emerged as a mechanism for the regulation of cholangiocyte transport and bile formation. The mechanical effect of fluid-flow, or shear, at the apical membrane of cholangiocytes regulates secretion through a process involving increases in [Ca2+]i and activation of Ca2+-activated Cl− channels. However, the initiating steps translating shear force to increases in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) are unknown. Transient receptor potential vanilloid member 4 (TRPV4), a nonselective cation channel present in the apical membrane of cholangiocytes, has been proposed as a potential mechanosensor. The aim of the present studies was to determine the potential role of TRPV4 in initiating mechanosensitive signaling in response to fluid-flow in cholangiocytes. TRPV4 expression was confirmed in both small and large mouse cholangiocytes. Exposure of cells to either fluid flow or specific TRPV4 pharmacological agonists rapidly increased both [Ca2+]i and membrane cation currents. Both flow- and agonist-stimulated currents displayed identical biophysical properties and were inhibited in the presence of TRPV4 antagonists or in cells after transfection with TRPV4 small interfering RNA. Transfection of mouse cholangiocytes with a TRPV4-enhanced green fluorescent protein construct increased the expression of TRPV4 and the magnitude of flow-stimulated currents. A specific TRPV4 agonist significantly increased the biliary concentration of ATP and bile flow in live mice when administered intravenously and increased ATP release from cholangiocyte monolayers when applied exogenously. The findings are consistent with a model in which activation of cholangiocyte TRPV4 translates shear force into an acute rise in membrane cation permeability, [Ca2+]i, ATP release, and bile flow. Understanding the role of mechanosensitive transport pathways may provide novel insights to modulate bile flow for the treatment of cholestatic liver disorders.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY These studies functionally characterize TRPV4 as a mechanosensitive channel in mouse cholangiocytes. By mediating a rapid rise in intracellular Ca2+, necessary for Ca2+-dependent secretion, TRPV4 represents a mechanosensor responsible for translating fluid flow into intracellular signaling and biliary secretion. Furthermore, intravenous infusion of a specific TRPV4 agonist increases bile flow in live mice. Understanding the role of TRPV4 in mechanosensitive transport pathways may provide novel insights to modulate bile flow during cholestasis.
Nitro-oleic acid inhibits the high glucose-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in peritoneal mesothelial cells and attenuates peritoneal fibrosis
Authors: Su Wenyan , Wang Haiping , Feng ZiYan , Sun Jing
Published: November 2019

As an electrophilic nitroalkene fatty acid, nitro-oleic acid (OA-NO2) exerts multiple biological effects that contribute to anti-inflammation, anti-oxidative stress, and antiapoptosis. However, little is known about the role of OA-NO2in peritoneal fibrosis. Thus, in the present study, we examined the effects of OA-NO2on the high glucose (HG)-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMCs) and evaluated the morphological and immunohistochemical changes in a rat model of peritoneal dialysis-related peritoneal fibrosis. In in vitro experiments, we found that HG reduced the expression level of E-cadherin and increased Snail, N-cadherin, and α-smooth muscle actin expression levels in HPMCs. The above-mentioned changes were attenuated by pretreatment with OA-NO2. Additionally, OA-NO2also inhibited HG-induced activation of the transforming growth factor-β1/Smad signaling pathway and NF-κB signaling pathway. Meanwhile, OA-NO2inhibited HG-induced phosphorylation of Erk and JNK. The results from the in vivo experiments showed that OA-NO2notably relieved peritoneal fibrosis by decreasing the thickness of the peritoneum; it also inhibited expression of transforming growth factor-β1, α-smooth muscle actin, N-cadherin, and vimentin and enhanced expression of E-cadherin in the peritoneum. Collectively, these results suggest that OA-NO2inhibits the HG-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition in HPMCs and attenuates peritoneal dialysis-related peritoneal fibrosis.
Nonsingular PNG-Based Impact Time Control Guidance with Lower Dependence on Time-to-Go Estimate
Authors: Chang Sijiang , Chen Shengfu
Published: November 2019

In a bid to take advantage of natural characteristics of the proportional navigation guidance (PNG) in practical engineering, the PNG-based impact time control guidance (ITCG) continues to be a popular alternative for achieving the desired impact time of a missile. For most such ITCG, the performance is dependent on the accuracy of the time-to-go estimation. Along the lines of the development of PNG-based ITCG in earlier studies, a nonsingular ITCG is proposed on the basis of nonlinear formulations. It is demonstrated that, by theoretical analysis and numerical simulation, this proposed ITCG is shown to be advantageous in certain circumstances. By deriving a novel additional acceleration command, the proposed law is of lower dependence on time-to-go estimate and is capable of eliminating some singularities, leading to wider adjustable range of the desired impact time and better adaptability to more conditions. This research is expected to be supplementary to those presented in the current research literature.
A Color-Image Encryption Scheme Using a 2D Chaotic System and DNA Coding
Authors: Shakir Haidar Raad
Published: November 2019

This paper proposes a method of encrypting images with password protection for secure sharing based on deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequence operations and the tangent-delay ellipse reflecting the cavity-map system (TD-ERCS). The initial values of the TD-ERCS system are generated from a user’s password, and the TD-ERCS system is used to scramble the pixel locations of the R, G, and B matrices of the original image. Next, three DNA-sequence matrices are generated by encoding the permuted color image such that it can be transformed into three matrices. Then, the TD-ERCS system is employed to generate three chaotic sequences before encoding the DNA into the three matrices. Thereafter, a DNA exclusive OR (XOR) operation is executed between the DNA sequences of the permuted image and the DNA sequences generated by the TD-ERCS system to produce three encrypted scrambled matrices. Finally, the matrices of the DNA sequences are decoded, and the R, G, and B channels are recombined to form an encrypted color image. The results of simulation and security tests reveal that the proposed algorithm offers robust encryption and demonstrates the ability to resist exhaustive, statistical, and differential attacks.
Therapeutic Potential of the miRNA–ATM Axis in the Management of Tumor Radioresistance
Authors: Rezaeian Abdol-Hossein , Khanbabaei Hashem , Calin George A.
Published: November 2019

The ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) protein kinase is widely known for its function as a chief mobilizer of the DNA damage response (DDR) upon DNA double-strand breaks. ATM orchestrates the DDR by modulating the expression of various miRNAs through several mechanisms. On the other hand, a set of miRNAs contribute to tight regulation of ATM by directly targeting the 3′-untranslated region of ATM mRNA. This review addresses the therapeutic application and molecular mechanisms that underlie the intricate interactions between miRNAs and ATM. It also describes therapeutic delivery of miRNAs in different environments such as hypoxic tumor microenvironments.
СПОСІБ ЖИТТЯ ЯК ОСНОВА МЕТАБОЛІЧНОГО СИНДРОМУ: ПОГЛЯД НА НАШІ РЕАЛІЇ
Authors: Korylchuk N. I.
Published: November 2019

Мета: показати вагомість способу життя як основи розвитку метаболічного синдрому та його важливий вплив на рівень здоров’я загалом.

Матеріали і методи. Проведено огляд та аналіз даних науково-медичної літератури та здійснено опитування (з використанням опитувальників) і обстеження 424 пацієнтів з абдомінальним ожирінням та метаболічним синдромом у лікарнях № 2 і № 3 м. Тернополя.

Результати. У статті проаналізовано дані щодо поняття «способу життя», «здорового способу життя», структури «здорового способу життя». Показано пряму залежність від способу життя людини до виникнення і прогресування захворювання на метаболічний синдром. Показано, що особи молодого віку впевнені, що будь-які навантаження, грубі порушення харчування, режиму праці, відпочинку, стрес, гіподинамія, тютюнокуріння, вживання алкоголю спроможні самостійно компенсуватися молодим віком. Люди старшого віку асоціюють свій вік із фізичним спокоєм, низькою поведінкою харчування та як наслідок, проблемами зі здоров’ям. Показано вплив всіх цих чинників на виникнення захворювання, прогресування ускладнень, зниження якості життя.

Висновки. Проведений аналіз літератури та досліджень показав, що роль людей у підтримці та зміцненні власного здоров’я зведена до мінімуму. У більшості випадків сформована необґрунтована впевненість у тому, що здоров’я гарантоване – молодим віком, та зруйноване й потребує медикаментів – у старшому віці. Результати доводять актуальність вивчення способу життя пацієнта з ознаками метаболічного синдрому, в аспекті корекції поведінки харчування, зміни рухового режиму, боротьби зі шкідливими звичками та здорового психологічного стану пацієнта.
ПОРУШЕННЯ МЕНСТРУАЛЬНОЇ ФУНКЦІЇ: СИТУАЦІЯ В СВІТІ І В УКРАЇНІ – У ЖІНОК РЕПРОДУКТИВНОГО ВІКУ ТА З НЕАТИПОВОЮ ГІПЕРПРОЛІФЕРАТИВНОЮ ПАТОЛОГІЄЮ ЕНДОМЕТРІЯ
Authors: Gorban N. Ye. , Vovk I. B. , Hoida N. H. , Linchak O. V.
Published: November 2019

Мета: вивчити особливості порушення менструального циклу (ПМЦ) в Україні у 2010–2017 рр. у жінок репродуктивного віку та з неатиповою гіперпроліферативною патологією ендометрія (НГПЕ).

Матеріали і методи. Використано дані статистичної звітності МОЗ України та Державної служби статистики України щодо жіночого населення віком 18–49 років. Вивчено особливості менструальної функції у 184 пацієнток із НГПЕ, поділених на три групи: І (n=60) – неатипова гіперплазія ендометрія (НГЕ), ІІ (n=62) – поліпи тіла матки (ПТМ), ІІІ (n=62) – поєднання НГЕ+ПТМ.

Результати. Частота ПМЦ серед жінок України у 2010–2017 рр. становила 15,96 ‰. Відзначено коливання значень показника від найнижчих у м. Севастополі (2,92 ‰) та в Луганській області (5,90 ‰) до найвищих у Дніпропетровській області (26,16 ‰) та в м. Києві (29,84 ‰). Встановлено, що чим більша поширеність ПМЦ, тим більша частота хвороб сечостатевої системи (r=0,75) та деяких гінекологічних захворювань – сальпінгітів (r=0,63), ендометріозу (r=0,42). Найвищу частоту ПМЦ спостерігали у ІІІ (61,3 %) та в І (53,3 %) групах, і лише у третини (32,3 %) хворих ІІ групи.

Висновки. 1. Найвищі показники порушення менструального циклу визначено у жінок з НГЕ та поєднанням НГЕ+ПТМ на відміну від пацієнток тільки з поліпами тіла матки. 2. ПМЦ можна розглядати як маркер та показник неблагополуччя функціонування сечостатевої системи та наявності гіперпроліферативного процесу ще на догоспітальному етапі.
СУЧАСНІ ТЕНДЕНЦІЇ У ПІДГОТОВЦІ БАКАЛАВРІВ ЗА СПЕЦІАЛЬНІСТЮ «ГРОМАДСЬКЕ ЗДОРОВʼЯ» З ДИСЦИПЛІНИ «ОСНОВИ ГІГІЄНИ ХАРЧУВАННЯ» В СУМСЬКОМУ ДЕРЖАВНОМУ УНІВЕРСИТЕТІ
Authors: Kasyanchuk V. V. , Bergilevich O. M. , Smiyanova O. Y.
Published: November 2019

Мета: провести аналіз існуючої інформації в наукових виданнях щодо фахової підготовки бакалаврів за спеціальністю «Громадське здоров’я» з дисципліни «Основи гігієни харчування» для підтвердження актуальності питання та вдосконалення навчального процесу.

Матеріали і методи. Використано бібліографічний, соціологічний та аналітичний методи.

Результати. Дисципліна «Основи гігієни харчування», яку традиційно викладають у медичних закладах, потребує вдосконалення з урахуванням сучасних світових тенденцій. Це пов’язано з тим, що суспільство сьогодні стикається з більш складною ситуацією у харчуванні населення, ніж у ХХ столітті, коли основні зусилля були спрямовані на збільшення виробництва та якість продуктів. Але на сьогодні відбувається кардинальне переосмислення попередніх тенденцій щодо спрямування їх на комплекс заходів, які включають: запобігання захворюванням, пов’язаним із недостатнім або надмірним споживанням їжі; врахування усього ланцюга виробництва харчових продуктів «від поля до столу»; вирішення екологічних проблем; сприяння сталості середовища та життєдіяльності населення. Промислові викиди харчових виробництв та аграрного сектору вважають одними із основних екологічно шкідливих чинників, вони забруднюють воду, ґрунт, повітря та є суттєвим джерелом викидів вуглекислого газу в атмосферу. Все це негативно впливає на здоров’я населення. Харчові системи повинні діяти протягом усього ланцюга «від поля до столу» з екологічними обмеженнями, щоб зменшити негативний вплив на здоров’я населення та на екологію біосфери. Вирішувати ці питання потрібно у міждисциплінарному та міжсекторальному контексті. Важливо, щоб сучасна підготовка бакалаврів за спеціальністю «Громадське здоров’я» ґрунтувалась на вдосконаленій дисципліні «Основи гігієни харчування» з формуванням комплексних знань щодо гігієни харчування, екології, стійкості харчової системи та безпечності харчових продуктів вздовж усього харчового ланцюга.

Висновки. Підготовку бакалаврів за спеціальністю «Громадське здоров’я» у Сумському державному університеті з дисципліни «Основи гігієни харчування» удосконалено з урахуванням міжнародного досвіду в цій галузі. Розроблено навчальну програму з цієї дисципліни на міждисциплінарній основі шляхом інтеграції екологічних та інших суміжних наук із науками про харчування.
Circulating Extracellular Vesicles in Normotension Restrain Vasodilation in Resistance Arteries
Authors: Good Miranda E. , Musante Luca , La Salvia Sabrina , Howell Nancy L. , Carey Robert M. , Le Thu H. , Isakson Brant E. , Erdbrügger Uta
Published: November 2019

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been described as novel biomarkers and bioactivators in vascular dysfunction in hypertension. However, the mechanism(s) by which EVs affect vascular function is unknown. To examine the effects of EVs on endothelial-dependent vasodilation (acetylcholine), we isolated circulating EVs from platelet-poor plasma using a low centrifugation speed (17 000
g
) and mesenteric resistance arteries from 12-week-old normotensive WKYs (Wistar-Kyoto rats) and SHRs (spontaneously hypertensive rats). Arteries were cannulated on a pressure myograph, and EVs were added to the vessel lumen and circulating bath. We found that circulating EVs from normotensive WKY reduced vasodilation of normotensive WKY arteries but had no effect on hypertensive SHR arteries. In contrast, EVs from hypertensive SHR failed to reduce vasodilation of arteries from both WKY and SHR. The restraining effect on vasodilation by EVs from normotensive WKY may be mediated by inhibition of eNOS (endothelial NO synthase), as addition of L-nitro-arginine methyl ester did not provide any additive effect. Moreover, circulating EVs from normotensive 6-week-old SHR—an age where SHRs have not yet developed hypertension—had similar restraining effect on vasodilation. In addition, delipidation of EVs did not alter the restraining effect of EVs from WKY but did restore the restraining effect of EVs from SHR. Finally, EVs from normotensive humans also restrained vasodilation of normotensive mouse arteries—an effect not observed in EVs from hypertensive humans. Taken together, our data support a vasoactive role of EVs that is altered in hypertension.
Hypertension in High School Students: Genetic and Environmental Factors
Authors: Bigazzi Roberto , Zagato Laura , Lanzani Chiara , Fontana Simone , Messaggio Elisabetta , Delli Carpini Simona , Citterio Lorena , Simonini Marco , Brioni Elena , Magnaghi Cristiano , Colombo Gualtiero Ivanoe , Santini Giada , Nistri Francesca , Cellai Filippo , Lenti Salvatore , Bianchi Stefano , Pertosa Giovanni Battista , Rocchetti Maria Teresa , Papale Massimo , Mezzolla Valeria , Gesualdo Loreto , Pina Concas Maria , Campese Vito , Manunta Paolo
Published: November 2019

Hypertension and obesity in the young population are major risk factors for renal and cardiovascular events, which could arise in adulthood. A candidate-gene approach was applied in a cohort observational study, in which we collected data from 2638 high school adolescent students. Participants underwent anthropometric and blood pressure (BP) measurements, as well as saliva and urine sample collection for genomic DNA extraction and renal function evaluation, respectively. We tested whether candidate genes previously implicated in salt-sensitive hypertension in adults impact BP also among adolescents. Since inflammatory mechanisms may be involved in pathophysiology of hypertension and in endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis through reactive oxygen species, the baseline urinary excretion of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in a subgroup of adolescents stratified according to
ADD1
(alpha adducin) rs4961 genotypes was assessed. Regression analysis of BP values with genetic polymorphisms, highlighted an association with a missense variant of
LSS
(lanosterol synthase, rs2254524), a gene coding for an enzyme involved in endogenous ouabain synthesis. Higher diastolic and systolic BP were associated with
LSS
A allele (
P
=0.011 and
P
=0.023, respectively). BP resulted associated with 5 more SNPs. The
KL
(klotho) rs9536314 missense variant was associated with 24 hour urinary Na
+
excretion (
P
=0.0083). Urinary protein tests showed a greater excretion of IL1β (interleukin 1β) and interleukin 10 (
P
<0.0001) in carriers of the
ADD1
rs4961 T allele. In conclusion, 3 missense gene variants already implicated in adult hypertension impact BP or Na
+
excretion among adolescents, and, together with activated pro-inflammatory pathways, might predispose to early cardiovascular damage.
A new forest dwelling button spider from South Africa (Araneae, Theridiidae, Latrodectus)
Authors: WRIGHT B.M.O.G. , WRIGHT C. D. , SOLE C.L. , LYLE R. , TIPPETT R. , SHOLTO-DOUGLAS C. , VERBURGT L. , ENGELBRECHT I.
Published: November 2019

The medically important spider genus Latrodectus Walckenaer 1805, commonly referred to as “button spiders” in South Africa, is represented by six species in the country. Using morphology and the COI barcoding gene we describe a new forest dwelling species, Latrodectus umbukwane n. sp. Wright, Wright, Lyle and Engelbrecht. Females have red markings on both the ventral and posterior dorsal surfaces of the abdomen, parallel spermathecae and three loops of the copulatory ducts. Males have an embolus with four loops and diagnostic white markings on the ventral surface of the abdomen that darken with age. Egg sacs are smooth, large, and bright purple when freshly laid, turning shiny grey with time. Latrodectus umbukwane n. sp. is known only from sand forest vegetation types in northern Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. A predicted geographic distribution for this species is provided based on cartographic mapping of known habitat and altitudinal preference, from which area of occupancy (AOO; 698 km2) and extent of occurrence (EOO; 4963 km2) were calculated to assess potential IUCN Red List status. Due to the uncertainty of the distribution of this species, a Red List status of Data Deficient (DD) is recommended. An updated key to the southern African species of Latrodectus is provided.
A new species of the genus Lethe Hübner, 1819 from Yunnan, China (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae, Satyrinae)
Authors: HUANG SI-YAO , WANG MIN , FAN XIAO-LING
Published: November 2019

A new species of the Lethe trimacula-group, viz. L. langsongyuni sp. nov. is described from Weixi County, representing the third member of this species group in northwestern part of Yunnan Province, southwestern China. In general L. langsongyuni sp. nov. is closely related to L. liae Huang, 2002, L. proxima Leech, 1892 and L. umedai albofasciata Huang, 2002, but it can be distinguished from all of them by combination of several details in wing pattern and male genitalia. The adults and male genitalia of the species aforementioned are illustrated.
Moenkhausia restricta, a new species from the upper Rio Negro, Amazon basin, northwestern Brazil (Characiformes: Characidae)
Authors: SOARES NATHÁLIA C. , BENINE RICARDO C.
Published: November 2019

A new shallow-bodied species of Moenkhausia is described from the upper Rio Negro, Amazon basin, Brazil. The new species is diagnosed from all congeners by the combination of a body depth not surpassing 33% in SL in adult specimens, seven scale rows between dorsal-fin origin and lateral line, five scale rows between pelvic-fin insertion and lateral line, a single conspicuous vertically elongated humeral blotch, and a conspicuous caudal peduncle blotch extending to the distal margin of the median caudal-fin rays. The new species was collected together with Jupiaba zonata, with which it shares a very similar color pattern. The similarity between these two taxa is interpreted as an additional case of Batesian mimicry between Moenkhausia and Jupiaba.
4. Characterisation
Authors: Ribó Ignasi
Published: November 2019

In this chapter, we will start by discussing how the nature of characters changes when we analyse them at the level of narrative, discourse, or story. We will then consider the notion of individuation in order to show that characterisation in prose fiction is generally aimed at constructing fully individuated characters, but very often also produces typical and universal characters. When analysing fictional characters in psychological/realistic terms, it is common to distinguish their degree of individuation (flat vs. round characters), as well as their degree of personal development throughout the plot (static vs. dynamic characters). After looking at these typologies of character, we will discuss the most common approaches to representing them in narrative: indirect and direct characterisation. An important method of direct characterisation is dialogue, which will be the topic of the last section in this chapter.
Early signs of right ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction in acute severe respiratory failure: the importance of diastolic restrictive pattern
Authors: Tavazzi Guido , Bergsland Niels , Alcada Joana , Price Susanna
Published: November 2019

Background:

The incidence and pathophysiology of right ventricular failure in patients with severe respiratory insufficiency has been largely investigated. However, there is a lack of early signs suggesting right ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction prior to acute cor pulmonale development.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective analytical cohort study of patients for acute respiratory distress syndrome undertaking an echocardiography during admission in the cardiothoracic intensive care unit. Patients were divided according to treatment: conventional protective ventilation (38 patients, 38%); interventional lung assist (23 patients, 23%); veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (37 patients, 37%). Systolic and diastolic function was studied assessing, respectively: right ventricular systolic longitudinal function (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion) and systolic contraction duration (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion length); right ventricular diastolic filling time and right ventricular diastolic restrictive pattern (presence of pulmonary valve presystolic ejection wave). Correlation between the respiratory mechanics and systo-diastolic parameters were analysed.

Results:

In 98 patients studied, systolic dysfunction (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion <16 mm) was present in 33.6% while diastolic restrictive pattern was present in 64%. A negative correlation was found between tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion length (P<0.0001; r −0.42). Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion length correlated with right ventricular diastolic filling time (P<0.001; r −0.39). Pulmonary valve presystolic ejection wave was associated with tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (P<0.0001), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion length (P<0.0001), right ventricular diastolic filling time (P<0.0001), positive end-expiratory pressure (P<0.0001) and peak inspiratory pressure (P<0.0001).

Conclusion:

Diastolic restrictive pattern is present in a remarkable percentage of patients with respiratory distress syndrome. Bedside echocardiography allows a mechanistic evaluation of systolic and diastolic interaction of the right ventricle.
Logopenic progressive aphasia with neologisms: a case report
Authors: Watanabe Hiroyuki , Ikeda Manabu , Mori Etsuro
Published: November 2019

Background

Neologisms are commonly encountered in patients with acute cerebrovascular diseases, particularly in those with Wernicke’s aphasia. However, few studies have investigated primary progressive aphasia with neologisms in neurodegenerative disease.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a 74-year-old, right-handed man who developed logopenic progressive aphasia (LPA) with neologisms. He was assessed with neuropsychological tests, magnetic resonance imaging, and single-photon emission computed tomography. Neologisms accounted for a relatively large portion of the paraphasic errors in the naming tests performed during the neuropsychological assessment. He had all the diagnostic features of LPA. Notably, the unique feature of this patient was the presentation of neologisms, which are seldom observed in typical LPA.

Conclusions

Neologisms are considered rare symptoms in patients with early-stage LPA. Our findings in this case report provide new insights into the spectrum of clinical features in LPA.
The epidemiological burden of obesity in childhood: a worldwide epidemic requiring urgent action
Authors: Di Cesare Mariachiara , Sorić Maroje , Bovet Pascal , Miranda J Jaime , Bhutta Zulfiqar , Stevens Gretchen A , Laxmaiah Avula , Kengne Andre-Pascal , Bentham James
Published: November 2019

Background

In recent decades, the prevalence of obesity in children has increased dramatically. This worldwide epidemic has important consequences, including psychiatric, psychological and psychosocial disorders in childhood and increased risk of developing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) later in life. Treatment of obesity is difficult and children with excess weight are likely to become adults with obesity. These trends have led member states of the World Health Organization (WHO) to endorse a target of no increase in obesity in childhood by 2025.

Main body

Estimates of overweight in children aged under 5 years are available jointly from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), WHO and the World Bank. The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) has published country-level estimates of obesity in children aged 2–4 years. For children aged 5–19 years, obesity estimates are available from the NCD Risk Factor Collaboration. The global prevalence of overweight in children aged 5 years or under has increased modestly, but with heterogeneous trends in low and middle-income regions, while the prevalence of obesity in children aged 2–4 years has increased moderately. In 1975, obesity in children aged 5–19 years was relatively rare, but was much more common in 2016.

Conclusions

It is recognised that the key drivers of this epidemic form an obesogenic environment, which includes changing food systems and reduced physical activity. Although cost-effective interventions such as WHO ‘best buys’ have been identified, political will and implementation have so far been limited. There is therefore a need to implement effective programmes and policies in multiple sectors to address overnutrition, undernutrition, mobility and physical activity. To be successful, the obesity epidemic must be a political priority, with these issues addressed both locally and globally. Work by governments, civil society, private corporations and other key stakeholders must be coordinated.
Determination of optimal cut-off points after a high-fat meal corresponding to fasting elevations of triglyceride and remnant cholesterol in Chinese subjects
Authors: Xu Jin , Chen Yan-Qiao , Zhao Shui-Ping , Liu Ling
Published: November 2019

Background

Postprandial high triglyceride (HTG), marking elevated level of remnant cholesterol (RC), is an independent risk factor of coronary heart disease (CHD). The postprandial cut-off points for HTG and high RC (HRC) after a daily meal are recommended as 2.0 mmol/L and 0.9 mmol/L, respectively, by the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS), while those after a high-fat meal in Chinese subjects were not explored.

Methods

Ninety subjects, including 60 CHD patients (CHD group) and 30 non-CHD controls (CON group), were enrolled in this study. Serum levels of blood lipids, including calculated RC, were monitored at 0, 2, 4 and 6 h after a high-fat meal with 800 kcal and 50 g fat. Analysis of c-statistic was used to determine the cut-off points for postprandial HTG and HRC.

Results

Postprandial levels of triglyceride (TG) and RC significantly increased and peaked at 4 h after a high-fat meal in two groups, although those in CHD group were significantly higher (P < 0.05). The optimal cut-off point to predict HTG at 4 h corresponding to fasting TG ≥ 1.7 mmol/L was 3.12 mmol/L, and that to predict HRC at 4 h corresponding to fasting RC ≥ 0.8 mmol/L was 1.36 mmol/L. According to the new cut-off points, the omissive diagnosis rates of postprandial HTG and HRC decreased obviously.

Conclusion

The cut-off points of postprandial HTG and HRC in Chinese subjects after a high-fat meal were higher than those after a daily meal recommended by the EAS, indicating that specific cut-off points should be determined after a certain high-fat meal.
S100P is a molecular determinant of E-cadherin function in gastric cancer
Authors: Carneiro Patrícia , Moreira Ana Margarida , Figueiredo Joana , Barros Rita , Oliveira Patrícia , Fernandes Maria Sofia , Ferro Anabela , Almeida Raquel , Oliveira Carla , Carneiro Fátima , Schmitt Fernando , Paredes Joana , Velho Sérgia , Seruca Raquel
Published: November 2019

Background

E-cadherin has been awarded a key role in the aetiology of both sporadic and hereditary forms of gastric cancer. In this study, we aimed to identify molecular interactors that influence the expression and function of E-cadherin associated to cancer.

Methods

A data mining approach was used to predict stomach-specific candidate genes, uncovering S100P as a key candidate. The role of S100P was evaluated through in vitro functional assays and its expression was studied in a gastric cancer tissue microarray (TMA).

Results

S100P was found to contribute to a cancer pathway dependent on the context of E-cadherin function. In particular, we demonstrated that S100P acts as an E-cadherin positive regulator in a wild-type E-cadherin context, and its inhibition results in decreased E-cadherin expression and function. In contrast, S100P is likely to be a pro-survival factor in gastric cancer cells with loss of functional E-cadherin, contributing to an oncogenic molecular program. Moreover, expression analysis in a gastric cancer TMA revealed that S100P expression impacts negatively among patients bearing Ecad− tumours, despite not being significantly associated with overall survival on its own.

Conclusions

We propose that S100P has a dual role in gastric cancer, acting as an oncogenic factor in the context of E-cadherin loss and as a tumour suppressor in a functional E-cadherin setting. The discovery of antagonist effects of S100P in different E-cadherin contexts will aid in the stratification of gastric cancer patients who may benefit from S100P-targeted therapies.

Graphical abstract