bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre‐eclampsia is associated with reduced resolvin D1 and maresin 1 to leukotriene B4 ratios in the plasma
Authors: Oliveira Perucci Luiza , Pereira Santos Talita Adriana , Campi Santos Patrícia , Ribeiro Teixeira Lívia Cristina , Nessralla Alpoim Patrícia , Braga Gomes Karina , Pires Sousa Lirlândia , Sant'Ana Dusse Luci Maria , Talvani André
Published: November 2019

Problem

Omega‐3 and omega‐6 fatty acids can be endogenously converted into mediators with pro‐inflammatory (eg, leukotriene B4/LTB4) or anti‐inflammatory/pro‐resolving activities (eg, resolvin D1/RvD1 and maresin 1/MaR1). Recent data indicate an imbalance of LTB4 and MaR1 levels in pre‐eclampsia (PE), but the relative production of these mediators, including RvD1, and the role of these mediators in the disease pathogenesis remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the plasma levels of LTB4, RvD1, and MaR1 in pregnant women with or without PE and non‐pregnant controls and their association with clinical/laboratory parameters of PE women.

Method of study

LTB4, RvD1, and MaR1 plasma levels were measured by competitive enzyme immunoassay in 19 non‐pregnant, 20 normotensive pregnant, and 21 PE women.

Results

Plasma concentrations of LTB4 were higher and RvD1 were lower in PE women than in normotensive pregnant women, who presented higher levels of LTB4 and similar levels of RvD1 to non‐pregnant women. MaR1 levels did not differ among the groups. Pre‐eclampsia women had decreased RvD1/LTB4 and MaR1/LTB4 ratios. Considering only the PE group, positive correlations were observed among all the mediators tested, between LTB4 and white blood cell count and between RvD1 and creatinine levels. However, all lipid mediators correlated negatively with body mass index before pregnancy. LTB4 also correlated negatively with maternal age.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the PE state results in systemic overproduction of LTB4 in relation to RvD1 and MaR1, and that these lipid mediators may be involved with the disease pathogenesis.
Current variability in the assessment of component position for the unhappy knee replacement
Authors: Suchowersky Andrew M. , Dickison David , Ashton L. A.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has a success rate of 80–90%, but despite this encouraging figure a painful TKA can be a source of dismay for patients and surgeons. Computed tomography (CT) scan has been developed as a tool to collect data in the analysis of TKA component placement. Protocols used to collect such data exist in orthopaedic and radiology practice with little standardization and significant variation. The aim of this review article was to evaluate such variability by sampling a series of protocols from a range of different radiology practices within NSW, Australia in a case‐based manner and to then compare them against any literature standards.

Methods

The literature was surveyed for existing CT scan protocols used in TKA assessment. These were then compared with a series of metropolitan and rural radiology firms across the public and private sectors in NSW, Australia.

Results

Considerable variability exists between current protocols across NSW, Australia, which differ with proposed literature standards.

Conclusion

Variabilities encountered when comparing the different scanning protocols in use for the assessment of TKA constitute a large potential source of error in the analysis of TKA component positioning. The reliance surgeons place on such analyses suggests the need for an established scanning protocol with an incorporated grading system and standardized values to allow reproducible data to help assess and predict TKA function.
Control of the inflammasome by the ubiquitin system
Authors: Lopez‐Castejon Gloria
Published: November 2019

Inflammation is the body’s response to danger. One of the first immune cell types to encounter danger is the macrophage. Macrophages sense danger signals such as extracellular ATP or bacterial toxins, derived from tissue damage or infection, and initiate the activation of an intracellular molecular complex called the inflammasome. The inflammasome consists of a cytosolic pattern recognition receptor, an adaptor molecule ASC (apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a CARD) and the protease caspase‐1. Assembly of the complex leads to the cleavage and activation of caspase‐1 that triggers processing and release of the cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐18, and ultimately cell death via the process of pyroptosis. The ability to sense and respond to danger appropriately is critical for maintaining immune homeostasis. Dysregulation of inflammasomes contributes to the progression of chronic diseases prevalent in the ageing population, such as Alzheimer’s disease, COPD and metabolic disease; hence, it is critical that activation of the inflammatory response and inflammasome activation are tightly regulated. Post‐translational modifications (PTMs) such as ubiquitination have recently emerged as important regulators of inflammasome assembly. However, the mechanisms by which PTMs regulate the inflammasome are still not understood. This review aims to summarize our knowledge to date on how the ubiquitin system controls inflammasome activation and where this area of research is heading.
Population status of Asian elephantsElephas maximusand key threats
Authors: Menon V. , Tiwari S. KR.
Published: November 2019

The Asian elephantElephas maximusis distributed in 13 countries across South Asia and South East Asia spread over an area of 486 800 km2with a population ofc. 48 323–51 680 in the wild andc. 15 000 in captivity. The major threats to the survival of the species are habitat shrinkage and fragmentation, human–elephant conflict, poaching and illegal trade of elephant body parts. The elephant populations of Vietnam, Sumatra and Myanmar are under great threat with only 100–130 elephants left in the wild in Vietnam. Apart from ivory, the trade of other body parts of elephants, especially the skin trade, has increased in last few years further threatening the elephant population. This trade could result in indiscriminate killing of elephants of both sexes threatening the fragile elephant population in the region. Human–elephant conflict has become a significant threat for the conservation of Asian elephants across their range of distribution and needs to be managed urgently to prevent retaliation. The welfare and care of elephants in captivity is a major concern as are the training methods used with these elephants. There is also a need to create and conform to a uniform registration system for elephants in human care to prevent illegal trade of individuals.
Impact of pulsed electric field on rheological, structural, and physicochemical properties of almond milk
Authors: Manzoor Muhammad Faisal , Ahmad Nazir , Aadil Rana Muhammad , Rahaman Abdul , Ahmed Zahoor , Rehman Abdur , Siddeeg Azhari , Zeng Xin‐An , Manzoor Ahsan
Published: November 2019

The effects of the pulsed electric field (PEF) on the rheological, structural, and physicochemical properties of almond milk were evaluated. Results indicated that there was a significant increase in electrical conductivity, cloud value, and cloud stability, while a significant decrease was observed in viscosity and nonenzymatic browning after PEF treatments. The particle size was significantly reduced and monodisperse distributions were observed, particle size reduction further confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscopy. Whiteness Index, clarity, and physical stability of samples were improved, without affecting either protein stability or viscosity. The rheological behavior of all samples was described using a Herschel–Bulky model. PEF treatments increased the apparent viscosity and changed the consistency index (K). The denaturation temperatures and apparent enthalpy of almond milk samples were modified by PEF treatments. This study indicated that dispersive and aggregative properties of PEF treated almond milk were different due to differences in particle coagulation, protein denaturation and morphological characteristic of aggregates.

Practical applications

Now a day, green processing techniques, such as PEF is used for processing the different types of beverages. The outcomes of the recent study described that PEF treatment could improve the physicochemical properties, reduce the particle, physical stability, and whiteness index of almond milk. The results of this research proposed that PEF has an ability to enhance the quality of almond beverage and may be employed for the processing at an industrial scale.
Social creatures: Model animal systems for studying the neuroendocrine mechanisms of social behaviour
Authors: Robinson Kelly J. , Bosch Oliver J. , Levkowitz Gil , Busch Karl Emanuel , Jarman Andrew P. , Ludwig Mike
Published: November 2019

The interaction of animals with conspecifics, termed social behaviour, has a major impact on the survival of many vertebrate species. Neuropeptide hormones modulate the underlying physiology that governs social interactions, and many findings concerning the neuroendocrine mechanisms of social behaviours have been extrapolated from animal models to humans. Neurones expressing neuropeptides show similar distribution patterns within the hypothalamic nucleus, even when evolutionarily distant species are compared. During evolution, hypothalamic neuropeptides and releasing hormones have retained not only their structures, but also their biological functions, including their effects on behaviour. Here, we review the current understanding of the mechanisms of social behaviours in several classes of animals, such as worms, insects and fish, as well as laboratory, wild and domesticated mammals.
Why are Women Less Likely to Negotiate? The Influence of Expectancy Considerations and Contextual Framing on Gender Differences in the Initiation of Negotiation
Authors: Reif Julia A. M. , Kugler Katharina G. , Brodbeck Felix C.
Published: November 2019

According to social role theory, women are less likely to initiate negotiations and have lower expectancies about negotiation success because the feminine gender role is inconsistent with the negotiator role. However, gender differences should be amplified in masculine contexts (with even more inconsistency between the negotiator role and the feminine gender role) and reduced in feminine contexts (with more consistency between the negotiator role and the feminine gender role). We showed in Study 1 (N = 1,306 students) that negotiators’ expectancies about being successful in negotiations mediated the effect of gender on real retrospective negotiation behavior. In Study 2, an online scenario experiment (N = 167 students and employees), we found that the framing of the negotiation context (feminine vs. masculine) moderated the mediation effect. We provide implications for theory, practice, and research methods by unearthing mechanisms and moderators of gender differences in the area of negotiations.
Establishment of a mitotic model system by transient expression of the D‐type cyclin in differentiated leaf cells of tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana)
Authors: Xu Jie , Lee Yuh‐Ru Julie , Liu Bo
Published: November 2019

Investigations of plant cell division would greatly benefit from a fast, inducible system. Therefore, we aimed to establish a mitotic model by transiently expressing D‐type cyclins in tobacco leaf cells.

Two different D‐type cyclins, CYCD3;1 and CYCD4;2 from Arabidopsis thaliana, were expressed by agrobacterial infiltration in the cells of expanded leaves in tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana). Leaf pavement cells were examined after cyclin expression while target and reference (histone or tubulin) proteins were marked by fluorescent protein‐tagging.

Ectopic expression of the D‐type cyclin induced pavement cells to re‐enter cell division by establishing mitotic microtubule arrays. The induced leaf cells expressed M phase‐specific genes of Arabidopsis encoding the mitotic kinase AtAurora 1, the microtubule‐associated proteins AtEDE1 and AtMAP65‐4, and the vesicle fusion protein AtKNOLLE by recognizing their genomic elements. Their distinct localizations at spindle poles (AtAurora1), spindle microtubules (AtEDE1), phragmoplast microtubules (AtMAP65‐4) and the cell plate (AtKNOLLE) were indistinguishable from those in their native Arabidopsis cells. The dividing cells also revealed two rice (Oryza sativa) microtubule‐associated proteins in the phragmoplast and uncovered a novel spindle‐associated microtubule motor protein.

Hence, this cell division‐enabled leaf system predicts hypothesized cell cycle‐dependent functions of heterologous genes by reporting the dynamics of encoded proteins.
Male age affects female mating preference but not fitness in the monandrous mothDendrolimus punctatusWalker (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae)
Authors: Lai Meng , Zhang Shi‐Yu , Zhang Yan‐Fang , Liu Xing‐Ping
Published: November 2019

It is widely accepted that male age can influence female mating preference and subsequent fitness consequences in many polyandrous species, yet this is seldom investigated in monandrous species. In the present study, we use the monandrous pine mothDendrolimus punctatusto examine the effects of male age on female mating preference and future reproductive potential. In multiple male trials, when permitted free mating from an aggregation consisting of virgin males aged 0 (young), 2 (middle‐aged) and 4 (old) days, virgin females preferentially mate with young and middle‐aged males, although mating latency and mating duration are independent of male age. In single male trials, when virgin females are randomly assigned single virgin males of known age, a negative correlation is found between mating success and male age in this species. However, we find that male age also has no effect on mating latency and mating duration. Further fitness analysis reveals that females do not receive benefits in terms of oviposition period, total egg production, average daily egg production, percentage of egg hatching, longevity, expected reproduction and relative expected reproduction from mating with young and middle‐aged males compared with mating with old males. The results of the present study are the first demonstrate that females mated preferentially with younger males but gain no apparent fitness benefits in a monandrous moth species.
Aplikasi Strategi Lautan Biru Kebangsaan Dalam Agihan Zakat Pendidikan Di Zakat Pulau Pinang (ZPP) (The National Blue Ocean Strategy Applications Zakat Education in Zakat Penang (ZPP))
Authors: Mohamad Zaki Mohamad Muhaimin , Sulong Jasni
Published: November 2019

Among the key thrusts and government policies to enhance the country's productivity competitiveness towards high-income and developed nations is through the national blue ocean strategy or Blue Ocean Strategy. This study is to analyze the application of the national blue ocean strategy in Zakat of Penang (ZPP) in the context of the distribution of zakat education today. The ZPP was chosen as the highest among the highest education zakat in the country in 2017 amounting to RM 31,713,200.41 being 31.78% of the total distribution of RM 99,782,721.01. The question is, how far is the application of the national blue ocean strategy to assist the distribution of zakat education in ZPP and how does the application take place according to current and local conditions? Hence, the objective of this study is to identify the forms of joint ventures carried out with external agencies to strengthen the distribution system in ZPP and to meet the reality of current zakat distribution of education. The methodology of the study was conducted qualitatively by collecting data through library research and field research using unstructured interview methods. Data analysis uses descriptive and comparative methods. Research findings show that there are various joint venture programs in the distribution of zakat education that involve national blue ocean strategies such as the joint program of Penang Development Center, Naza Group, PERDA, State Education Department, KADUN which has a positive impact on the distribution especially education zakat in Penang.
Memperkasa Pengurusan Agihan Zakat di Institusi Masjid Malaysia: Isu dan Cabaran (Empowering Zakat Distribution Management in Mosque Institutions of Malaysia: Issues and Challenges)
Authors: Ab Rahman Azman , Mohd Faisal Yeap Mursyid Junaidi
Published: November 2019

Zakat management in Malaysia has always been experiencing a significant change in respect of its collection and distribution. Various transformations have taken place in ensuring the empowerment of zakat institutions particularly in assisting the asnaf group. While the governance of zakat management in Malaysia differs from each state, its objectives and purposes are the same as to preserve the development of ummah from the spiritual, economic, social, health, and other aspects. Countless efforts have been carried out to ensure the distribution of zakat is implemented effectively, fair, and equitable. The mosque institution is seen as among the best alternatives in ensuring the distribution of zakat can be distributed systematically in a structured and focused manner as the way it was implemented throughout the time of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his Companions. Therefore, this article will assess the zakat distribution practices in mosque institution of Malaysia. This study will also discuss the issues and challenges confronted in the implementation of zakat distribution management in mosque institutions as well as a proposition of a new zakat management model in mosque institutions. The findings indicate that there are some states in Malaysia that implementing zakat distribution in mosque institution, however without having a permanent organizational structure with the mosque management itself. Further studies on the methods and mechanisms of zakat distribution in mosque institutions can be held to scrutinize directly the issues and challenges encountered if mosque institutions are to handle the zakat distribution management. Hopefully this study is able to be a guide and reference to the State Islamic Religious Council in strengthening the zakat management in mosque institutions of Malaysia.
Klasifikasi Penyakit Rindu dalam Perubatan Tradisional Melayu dan Kaedah Merawatnya menurut Perspektif Shaykh Abbas Kuta Karang dalam Kitab al-Rahmah fi al-Tib wa al-Hikmah (Classification of Rindu in Traditional Malay Medicine and Its Treatment Methods from the Perspective of Shaykh Abbas Kuta Karang in Kitab Al-Rahmah fi al-Tib wa al-Hikmah)
Authors: Ab Ghani Muhamad Hafiz
Published: November 2019

Medical science is an important field of knowledge in a society or civilization including the Malay community. This knowledge is highly regarded and appreciated in the Malay states. Health care involves physical and spiritual health. At present, medical knowledge is more likely to cure physical illness than spiritual illness. This can be seen as the field of practice recognized by the government in Malay medicine only involves physical health. Therefore, this study is important because in Malay medicine, healthcare involves two categories of health i.e. physical health and spiritual health. This study examines one of the problems of spiritual health which is a miserable illness based on Malay medicine. The study was aimed at identifying the types of treatments for indigestion based on Malay medicine. The question of this study is: 1) What is the type or level of illness? 2) How to treat the illness? This study is a literature review and the method used is qualitative. The study was conducted to examine illnesses in Malay medicine. The main reference of the study is the book al-Rahmah fi al-Tib wa al-Hikmah (Compassion in medical science and wisdom) written by Shaykh Abbas Kuta Karang. The outcome of the study shows that Malay medicine is a complete and well-funded medical method and covers many aspects of life, not only for the treatment of physical illness.
Aplikasi Peranti Pengawasan Elektronik Dalam Perlaksanaan Hukuman Taghrib Semasa (Application of Electronic Monitoring Devices in Current Taghrib Execution)
Authors: Abdoll Aziz Abdul Samad , Abdul Khalil Shahidra , Ali Abdul Karim
Published: November 2019

Banishment (taghrib) is one of the many punishments prescribed under Islamic criminal law. It serves as a type of punishment under hudud imposed on unmarried persons for committing adultery and those who commits robbery. It also serves as a type of punishment under takzir. In its early implementation, the offender will be banished to other districts which aimed to isolate them from crime factors. At present, banishment is deemed no longer effective as the offender can still communicate with their criminal counterparts via telephone and internet as a result of technological advances. This resulted in the punishment not being able to achieve preventative objectives due to supervision issues. The purpose of this article is to review the continuity of its implementation in modern times. Using comparative methods, comparisons were made with provisions of the same elements in the Prevention of Criminal Act 1959 (POCA). The findings show that the advancement in science and technology has made implementation of this punishment become practical. This was achived through the application of electronic monitoring devices (EMD) to monitor the offenders. As a result, the issues regarding supervison on the offenders which remain setback to the effectiveness of the punishment have been resolved. Hence, the implementation of taghrib remain relevant and not obsolete. In addition, reports show that banishment managed to curb the spread of crime and prevent recidivisme among offenders.
Tinjauan Awal Terhadap Modul Teras Fiqh Forensik Bagi Kegunaan Pegawai-Pegawai Syariah Di Malaysia (A Preliminary Review on Fiqh Forensics Fundamental Module for the Use of Shariah Officers in Malaysia)
Authors: Baharuddin Ahmad Syukran , Wan Ismail Wan Abdul Fattah , Abdul Mutalib Lukman , Ahmad Muhammad Hazim , Mohd Nasir Badlihisham , Wan Harun Mohamad Amir
Published: November 2019

The advancement in the field of forensic science highly affects the legal and enforcement field. As for the Shariah law, Syariah officers in Malaysia face challenges in controlling scientific-based exhibits and evidence. This has been seen as a result of lack of exposure, knowledge and comprehensive training in evidencing procedures using scientific-based qarinah. This preliminary study discusses the proposal to establish fiqh forensics fundamental module for the use of Syariah officers in Islamic legal institutions in Malaysia. This qualitative study applied inductive and deductive approaches in obtaining general and specific conclusion from primary and secondary sources. The findings show that there is a need to propose for the development of a specific module to empower human capital which includes enforcement, shariah prosecutors, judges and registrars within the integration framework of forensic science integration and fiqh based on the concept of 'fiqh forensics'. As such, this study addresses the proposed development of the fiqh forensics fundamental module for the use of shariah legislation.
Islamic Art and Language as a Source of Inspiration Leading to Traditional Arabic Calligraphy Art
Authors: Alashari Duaa Mohammed , Hamzah Abd.Rahman , Marni Nurazmallail
Published: November 2019

The Islamic art has developed from different kind of visual art. Arabic calligraphy is one of the most prominent arts starting from the revolution of the Quran and has a long history. This paper will help to provide some sources of information that can be used by people who would like to understand and study the Islamic calligraphy and Islamic art. Also, this paper is connecting the Arabic language to universal spirituality and express how Arabic calligraphy has become a prominent feature in Islamic world. Indeed, this paper provides a brief of the long history of Islamic calligraphy, explains about some of various of Arabic fonts style, and some important Quranic colour that has significant in the Islamic culture. Arabic calligraphy, which is also known as Islamic calligraphy, has a long history of development starting from the first written form of the Quran, in the early 7th century. The Arabic calligraphy art presents how to understand and appreciate its varied styles and modes. Calligraphers start creating their art by using some passages from the Quran or Arabic poems as a starting point then they develop their compositions in a complex and intricate piece of art by the overlap of Arabic letter and words that integrate. Arabic calligraphy is about movement, rhythm and dynamism as seen through the calligraphic marks in most mosques or Islamic building or Islamic calligraphy painting. Islamic calligraphy presents the aspect of aesthetic principles and demonstrate the love for Arabic language and culture with the aesthetic methods of traditional Arabic art.
Pneumolabyrinth: a rare complication of stapes surgery
Authors: Gomes Patricia S , Caselhos Sergio , Vide Ana Teresa , Fonseca Rui
Published: November 2019

Pneumolabyrinth is the entrapment of air within the inner ear and is a rare complication of stapes surgery. We report the case of a patient submitted to stapedectomy who, 4 weeks later, suddenly developed right hearing loss, ipsilateral tinnitus and vertigo. On the physical examination, the patient showed no signs of vestibular deficits. Audiometry was compatible with right profound mixed hearing loss and high-resolution CT of the temporal bone revealed the presence of pneumolabyrinth. During exploratory tympanotomy, the prosthesis was found dislodged; the communication between the middle and inner ear was closed with vein graft and a new prosthesis was placed. Following surgery, vestibular symptoms was abolished and the patient experienced great improvement of the hearing thresholds.
What are the health outcomes of trans and gender diverse young people in Australia? Study protocol for the Trans20 longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Tollit Michelle Anne , Pace Carmen C , Telfer Michelle , Hoq Monsurul , Bryson Janet , Fulkoski Nicholas , Cooper Charlie , Pang Ken C
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Being transgender is frequently accompanied by gender dysphoria, which often coexists with mental health concerns. Increased referrals of transgender and gender diverse (TGD) youth to gender clinics have been observed in many countries. Nevertheless, there are limited empirical data on the presentation and outcomes of these patients, and there is an urgent need for more evidence to ensure optimal medical and psychosocial interventions. Here, we describe Trans20, a longitudinal study of TGD patients attending a multidisciplinary paediatric gender service in Melbourne, Australia. Trans20 aims to understand the demographic and clinical characteristics of these patients, to document the natural history of gender diversity presenting in childhood and to investigate long-term outcomes for those receiving interventions.

Methods and analysis

Trans20 is a prospective cohort study based on children and adolescents first seen at the Royal Children’s Hospital Gender Service (RCHGS) between February 2017 and February 2020. Current estimates indicate the final sample size will be approximately 600. Patients and their parents complete online questionnaires prior to the first appointment with RCHGS and regularly thereafter as part of routine clinical care. On discharge from RCHGS, patients are invited to continue undertaking questionnaires biennially. In this way, a naturally forming cohort study has been created. The primary outcomes include gender dysphoria, physical and mental health, schooling, family functioning and quality of life. Subgroup analyses based on factors such as gender identity, birth-assigned sex and treatment received will be performed using bivariate and multivariate modelling as appropriate, and relevant statistical methods will be applied for the repeated measures over time.

Ethics and dissemination

The Royal Children's Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee approved this study (#36323). Findings from Trans20 will have translational impact by informing future treatment guidelines and gender affirming healthcare practices and will be disseminated through conferences and peer reviewed journals.
Hypervitaminosis D has no positive effects on goat tuberculosis and may cause chronic renal lesions
Authors: Risalde Maria Angeles , Roy Álvaro , Bezos Javier , Pineda Carmen , Casal Carmen , Díez‐Guerrier Alberto , Lopez‐Villalba Ignacio , Fernández‐Manzano Álvaro , Moreno Inmaculada , De Juan Lucía , Domínguez Lucas , Gortazar Christian
Published: November 2019

Background

There is evidence for a link between vitamin D deficiency and active tuberculosis (TB). In human beings, several trials have evaluated the role of vitamin D supplementation in TB treatment with conflicting results. However, the role of vitamin D supplementation in animal TB control has received less attention. The authors evaluated the beneﬁt of vitamin D supplementation for preventing mycobacterial infection or reducing TB lesions (TBL) in a controlled trial with goats naturally exposed to Mycobacterium caprae.

Methods

Two groups of goats, a vitamin D‐supplemented group and a non‐supplemented control group, were housed for 10 months in direct contact with M caprae‐infected adult goats. Upon contact with the infected adult goats, all animals were TB‐tested every two months.

Results

No experimental evidence of a protective effect of vitamin D supplementation based on M caprae culture prevalence, TBL prevalence, median TBL score or the proportion of single versus multiple organs presenting TBL was observed.

Conclusion

The results indicate that, in the conditions used in this study, vitamin D supplementation in goats does not reduce TB infection risk nor the diffusion and severity of TBL. In addition, vitamin D‐supplemented goats presented hyperphosphataemia and renal injury with calcifications suggestive of vitamin D intoxication.
Meissner state in highly forced superconducting systems
Authors: Aguirre C. A. , Martins Q. D. , Barba-Ortega J.
Published: November 2019

We show a possible relationship between the deformation factor [Formula: see text] and the inverse of the de Gennes parameter [Formula: see text] in the Ginzburg–Landau model for a superconducting meso-film and meso-disk in the presence of an external magnetic field in the Meissner state. It is shown that there is a lineal relationship between [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] when a forced model is considered. This being the case, the curves for the magnetization M (H) and the magnetic susceptibility [Formula: see text] are presented for several values of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], showing an acceptable qualitative fit between these curves.
Control of atom-mirror entanglement versus Gaussian geometric discord with RWA
Authors: Amazioug M. , Nassik M.
Published: November 2019

In this study, we control the quantum correlations existing between a movable mirror and atoms in hybrid atom-optomechanical system using rotating wave approximation (RWA) in adiabatic regime. We use the Mancini criterion to measure the entanglement, the purity to quantify the degree of mixedness and the Gaussian geometric discord (GGD) to characterize the quantum correlations even beyond entanglement. We study the effect of the optomechanical cooling rate and the cooperativity atomic on the transfer of quantum correlations between the movable mirror and atoms under the thermal effect. We also investigate the robustness of the GGD with respect to entanglement by exploiting recent experimental parameters.
Remark on the synergy between the heat kernel techniques and the parity anomaly
Authors: Kurkov Maxim , Leone Lorenzo
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we demonstrate that not only the heat kernel techniques are useful for computation of the parity anomaly, but also the parity anomaly turns out to be a powerful mean in studying the heat kernel. We show that the gravitational parity anomaly on four-dimensional manifolds with boundaries can be calculated using the general structure of the heat kernel coefficient [Formula: see text] for mixed boundary conditions, keeping all the weights of various geometric invariants as unknown numbers. The symmetry properties of the [Formula: see text]-invariant allow to fix all the relevant unknowns. As a byproduct of this calculation, we get an efficient and independent crosscheck (and confirmation) of the correction of the general structure of [Formula: see text] for mixed boundary conditions, previously suggested in [I. G. Moss, Anomalies, boundaries and the in–in formalism, J. Phys. A 45 (2012) 374022, https://doi.org/10.1088/1751-8113/45/37/374022 ].
CR-slant warped product submanifolds in nearly Kaehler manifolds
Authors: Uddin Siraj , Alqahtani Lamia Saeed , Alkhaldi Ali H. , Mofarreh Fatemah Y.
Published: November 2019

We show in this paper that many well-known theorems about the geometry of warped product submanifolds of Kaehler manifolds and itself nearly Kaehler manifolds can be generalized to CR-slant warped products in nearly Kaehler manifolds.
40 years with porphyrazines
Authors: Khelevina Ol’ga G. , Malyasova Alena S.
Published: November 2019

Our laboratory started research on tetraazaporphyrins in the middle of the 1970s. Before our works there was no information in the literature about coordination and ionization properties of these compounds, formation of their metal complexes or their state and behavior in proton-donating and proton-acceptor media. We carried out the first studies of the coordination and acid-base properties of unsubstituted tetraazaporphine [1], its octaphenyl [2] and tetra(tetramethylene)-[3] substituted derivatives. In this micro-review we summarize our works on the peripheral functionalization of unsubstituted porphyrazines and on their acid-base and coordination properties.
Properties and degradation of manganese(III) porphyrin thin films formed by high vacuum sublimation
Authors: Tseng Hsiang-Han , Serri Michele , Harrison Nicholas , Heutz Sandrine
Published: November 2019

Manganese porphyrins are of interest due to the optical, electronic and magnetic properties of the central metal ion, coupled to the low bandgap of the polyaromatic ring. These attractive characteristics are harnessed in solutions or in ultra-thin films, such as, for example, self-assembled monolayers. However, for devices, thicker films deposited using a controlled and reproducible method are required. Here we present the morphological, structural, chemical and optical properties of manganese(III) tetraphenylporphyrin chloride (MnTPPCl) thin films deposited using organic molecular beam deposition, typically employed to process analogue molecules for applications such as organic photovoltaics. We find, using a combination of UV-vis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies, that the sublimation process leads to the scission of the Mn–Cl bond. The resultant film is a Mn(II)TPP:Mn(III)TPPCl blend where approximately half the molecules have been reduced. Following growth, exposure to air oxidizes the Mn(II)TPP molecule. Through quantitative analysis of the time-dependent optical properties, the oxygen diffusion coefficient (D) [Formula: see text] is obtained, corresponding to a slow bulk oxidation following fast oxidation of a 8-nm-thick surface layer. The bulk diffusion D is lower than for analogous polycrystalline films, suggestion that grain boundaries, rather than molecular packing, are the rate-limiting steps in oxidation of molecular films. Our results highlight that the stability of the axial ligands should be considered when depositing metal porphyrins from the vapor phase, and offer a solvent-free route to obtain reproducible and smooth thin films of complex materials for engineering film functionalities.
Multi-Level Order-Flow Imbalance in a Limit Order Book
Authors: Xu Ke , Gould Martin D. , Howison Sam D.
Published: November 2019

We study the multi-level order-flow imbalance (MLOFI), which is a vector quantity that measures the net flow of buy and sell orders at different price levels in a limit order book (LOB). Using a recent, high-quality data set for six liquid stocks on Nasdaq, we fit a simple, linear relationship between MLOFI and the contemporaneous change in mid-price. For all six stocks that we study, we find that the out-of-sample goodness-of-fit of the relationship improves with each additional price level that we include in the MLOFI vector. Our results underline how order-flow activity deep into the LOB can influence the price-formation process.
From Laboratory to Patient: The Evolving Path to Become a Medicine
Authors: Hidalgo-Simon Ana
Published: November 2019

Gene editing and other laboratory developments promise to revolutionize treatment of many diseases that currently have no cure. The process to become a medicine is long and complex and requires many years. Regulation of medicines (permission to market a product and monitoring of its performance) is evolving to adapt to emerging new approaches in development. Current issues and new ideas needed to navigate the difficult waters from laboratory to patient are discussed here: novel approaches for narrow evidence base, earlier discussions of evidence with regulators, earlier planning for post-authorization requirements and better patient access.
A Case of Severe Seronegative Inflammatory Arthritis due to Nivolumab and Review of the Literature
Authors: Thapa Bicky , Ali Asad , Nair Raunak , Vashisht Rishik , Calabrese Cassandra
Published: November 2019

Immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment of cancer, yet therapy is often hampered by immune-related adverse events (irAEs) which range from mild to severe life-threatening events. Musculoskeletal (MSK) irAEs leading to discontinuation of ICIs are uncommon but increasingly recognized. We report a challenging case of severe immune-related seronegative inflammatory arthritis due to nivolumab in a patient with stage IV metastatic adenocarcinoma.
Damage Quantification in Concrete under Fatigue Loading Using Acoustic Emission
Authors: Shan Zhi , Yu Zhiwu , Li Xiao , Xie Ying
Published: November 2019

Acoustic emission (AE) is an effective nondestructive evaluation method for assessing damage in materials; however, few works in the literature have focused on one quantification method of damage in concrete under fatigue loading by using AE for characterizing the entire three main deterioration behaviors simultaneously. These deterioration behaviors include Young’s modulus degradation, fatigue total strain, and residual strain development. In this work, an AE quantification method of fatigue damage in concrete was developed, by combining AE and a fiber bundle-based statistical damage model (fiber bundle-irreversible chain model). By establishing a relationship between normalized AE counts and the damage variable based on the fiber bundle-irreversible chain model, the method was proposed. Additionally, this method was verified against the experimental results. It is able to capture the mechanisms of damage accumulation and characterize the three deterioration behaviors simultaneously.
Coexistence of Myeloid and Lymphoid Neoplasms: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Bouchla Anthi , Thomopoulos Thomas , Papageorgiou Sotirios , Tsirigotis Panagiotis , Bazani Efthymia , Gkirkas Konstantinos , Vasilatou Diamantina , Glezou Eirini , Stavroulaki Georgia , Gkontopoulos Konstantinos , Dimitriadis George , Pappa Vasiliki
Published: November 2019

The coexistence of a myeloid and a lymphoid neoplasm in the same patient is a rare finding. We retrospectively searched the records of the Hematology Division of the Second Department of Internal Medicine and Research Institute at Attikon University General Hospital of Athens from 2003 to 2018. Nine cases have been identified in a total of 244 BCR-/ABL1- negative MPN and 25 MDS/MPN patients and 1062 LPD patients referred to our institution between 2003 and 2018. Each case is distinct in the diversity of myeloid and lymphoid entities, the chronological occurrence of the two neoplasms, and the patient clinical course. All of them exhibit myeloproliferative (6 JAK2 V617F-positive cases) and lymphoproliferative features, with 1 monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (MBL), 3 B-chronic lymphocytic leukemias (B-CLL), 3 B-non-Hodgkin lymphomas (B-NHL), 1 multiple myeloma (MM), and 1 light and heavy deposition disease (LHCDD), while in three cases myelodysplasia is also present. The challenges in identifying and dealing with these rare situations in everyday clinical practice are depicted in this article.
Investigation of Bioactive Glass-Ceramic 60SiO2-30CaO-10P2O5 Prepared by Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Xuan Bui Vuong , Quang Vo Mai , Anh Nguyen Tien , Thi Bui Hoa
Published: November 2019

Bioactive glass-ceramics (BGCs) with the composition of 60SiO2-30CaO-10P2O5 (wt. %) have been synthesized by the hydrothermal method. The BGC samples were prepared at two reaction temperatures of 150 and 220°C, named BGC-150 and BGC-220. The XRD and FTIR analyses highlighted that the degree of crystallinity of BGCs increased linearly with hydrothermal reaction temperature. FE-SEM and TEM results indicated that the surface of BGC samples is covered by the nanosized particles which grow into larger sizes as a function of reaction temperature. The bioactivity of BGCs was investigated by the immersion of powder samples in the SBF solution. The results confirmed the dissolution and the interaction of BGC samples in the SBF solution which led to the formation of a new apatite phase on their surface.
Torsion of a Large Myomatous Uterus Associated with Progressive Renal Failure and Paralytic Ileus in an 86-Year-Old Woman
Authors: Wang Guiwen , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Sato Asuka , Shozu Makio
Published: November 2019

Uterine torsion of a nongravid uterus is rare, and proper diagnosis is challenging. Herein, we report a case of torsion of a large myomatous uterus in an 86-year-old woman who was presented with progressive renal failure and paralytic ileus. She was presented with abdominal discomfort, loss of appetite, and oliguria. A large myomatous uterus with broad calcification was identified when she underwent surgery to repair an umbilical hernia one year before the symptoms developed. Computed tomography revealed that one year later, the myomatous uterus significantly increased in size and the calcified lesion of the fibroid was largely displaced. She was also presented with paralytic ileus, and her general condition progressively worsened. Her serum creatinine levels were increased (3.5 mg/dL) and hemoglobin levels were low (8.5 g/dL). Emergency laparotomy revealed that the uterus was rotated 360 degrees clockwise at the level of the isthmus. The uterus was discolored, appearing dark red, and accompanied by broad congestion, and the cervix was elongated. The patient’s renal function and ileus recovered after a hysterectomy. In conclusion, torsion of a large myomatous uterus could become life-threatening in an oldest-old woman, and early release of the torsion is necessary to avoid serious complications.
Azilsartan: Current Evidence and Perspectives in Management of Hypertension
Authors: Pradhan Akshyaya , Tiwari Ashish , Sethi Rishi
Published: November 2019

Hypertension continues to be global pandemic with huge mortality, morbidity, and financial burden on the health system. Unfortunately, most patients with hypertension would eventually require two or more drugs in combination to achieve their target blood pressure (BP). To this end, emergence of more potent antihypertensive drugs is a welcome sign. Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are cornerstones of hypertension management in daily practice. Among all ARBs, azilsartan is proven to be more potent in most of the head-to-head trials till date. Azilsartan is the latest ARB approved for hypertension with greater potency and minimal side effects. This review highlights the role of azilsartan in management of hypertension in the current era.
Pasteurella multocida Septic Shock: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Aljameely A. , Wali G.
Published: November 2019

Pasteurella multocida is a small, Gram-negative, facultatively anaerobic coccobacillus that inhabits the normal microbiota of the respiratory tract of several animals, especially cats and dogs. By infecting humans, a wide range of clinical pictures can evolve varying from mild local cellulitis to more severe systemic diseases (e.g., meningitis, pneumonia, endocarditis, and bacteremia). Septic shock is an uncommon complication of P. multocida infection, with less than 100 cases reported in the literature. It is frequently associated with cirrhotic and immunocompromised individuals and rarely immunocompetent ones. Here, we present a case of Pasteurella multocida septic shock in an elderly man secondary to leg cellulitis with a review of the relevant literature.
Accuracy of Longitudinal Assessment of Visceral Adipose Tissue by Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry in Children with Obesity
Authors: Dias Katrin A. , Ramos Joyce S. , Wallen Matthew P. , Davies Peter S. W. , Cain Peter A. , Leong Gary M. , Ingul Charlotte B. , Coombes Jeff S. , Keating Shelley E.
Published: November 2019

Background. Increased visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is strongly associated with cardiometabolic risk factors. Accurate quantification of VAT is available through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which incurs a significant financial and time burden. We aimed to assess the accuracy of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry- (DXA-) derived VAT (DXA-VAT) against a gold standard MRI protocol (MRI-VAT) in children with normal weight and obesity cross-sectionally, and over the course of a lifestyle intervention. Methodology. MRI-VAT and DXA-VAT were quantified in 61 children (30 normal weight and 31 with obesity) at baseline. Children with obesity entered a three-month exercise and/or nutrition intervention after which VAT was reassessed. MRI- and DXA-VAT cross-sectional area, volume, and mass were quantified, and associations were calculated at baseline (n = 61) and pre-post intervention (n = 28, 3 participants dropped out). Method agreement was assessed through Bland–Altman analysis, linear regression, and Passing–Bablok regression. Results. At baseline, all DXA- and MRI-VAT outcomes were strongly associated (r = 0.90, P<0.001). However, there were no significant associations between absolute or relative change in DXA- and MRI-VAT outcomes (r = 0.25–0.36, P>0.05). DXA significantly overestimated VAT CSA (cross-sectional area), volume, and mass when compared with MRI (P<0.001) at baseline. Significant proportional bias was observed for all DXA-VAT outcomes at baseline and for relative longitudinal changes in DXA-VAT. Conclusions. Although DXA-VAT outcomes were strongly associated with MRI-VAT outcomes at baseline, estimates were subject to proportional bias in children with obesity and normal weight. DXA lacks validity for detecting changes in VAT among children with obesity. This trial is registered with NCT01991106.
Ultrasound-Induced Blood-Brain-Barrier Opening Enhances Anticancer Efficacy in the Treatment of Glioblastoma: Current Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Deng Zhiting , Sheng Zonghai , Yan Fei
Published: November 2019

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) diffusely infiltrates normal brain tissue. The presence of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) poses difficulties for targeted delivery of currently available antitumor drugs. Novel brain drug delivery strategies are far from satisfactory for glioma treatment. Recently, focused ultrasound (FUS) combined with microbubbles presents a transient, reversible, and noninvasive approach for local induction of BBB opening. This strategy demonstrated its potential to increase local concentrations of both diagnostic and therapeutic agents in glioma therapy. Current status and related physic mechanisms of this drug delivery technique are discussed in this review. Delivery efficiency enhancement in many preclinical glioma models was obtained by FUS-BBB opening combined with various nanoparticles. And, the clinical translational status of FUS-BBB will be discussed.