bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upper-plate deformation of Late Pleistocene marine terraces in the Trinidad, California, coastal area, southern Cascadia subduction zone
Authors: Padgett J. Scott , Kelsey Harvey M. , Lamphear David
Published: July 2019

Forming at sea level, uplifted shore platforms serve as long-term geodetic markers. The spatial distribution and elevation of marine terrace sequences offer insight into regional tectonics. In the Trinidad coastal area (California, USA), active tectonic processes reflect upper-plate deformation above the southern extent of the Cascadia subduction megathrust. A set of five uplifted and deformed Late Pleistocene marine terraces is preserved in the Trinidad region and provides an opportunity to analyze regional uplift, folding, and faulting. Using lidar imagery embedded within a GIS, we employ a surface classification model (SCM) that identifies uplifted marine terraces on the basis of their micro-topographical characteristics, i.e., low slope and low roughness. The SCM-based identification of marine terraces both supplements and verifies existing field mapping. We demonstrate the utility of the SCM, which can be applied to a variety of surface terrain analysis investigations that seek to identify smooth and/or rough terrain features, e.g., terraces and fault scarps. Age assignments for the five marine terraces, which range from 80 ka to <500 ka, are based on paleo–sea cliff geomorphology and soil development trends. Specifically, the steepest, highest, and most prominent paleo–sea cliff, which is associated with terrace number 3, is correlated to the long-duration sea-level highstand centered at 125 ka (marine isotope stage 5e), exemplifying a novel method in relative age assignment for Pleistocene geomorphic features. Based on these age assignments, the average maximum uplift rates in the Trinidad coastal area are ∼1.0 m/k.y., and the average long-term uplift rate diminishes westward to ∼0.4 – 0.5 m/k.y. on the downthrown side of the Trinidad fault. Based on analysis of deformation using the high-resolution lidar imagery of the marine terraces, the Trinidad hanging-wall anticline represents a fault propagation fold that ceased to be active when the associated reverse fault, the Trinidad fault, daylighted to the surface ca. 80–100 ka. Based on deformation tilts of a marine terrace with an assigned age of 200 ka, the Trinidad anticline has accommodated at least 1 km of shortening in the last 200 k.y., which represents at least 2% of the convergence of the Juan de Fuca plate relative to North America over the same time period. Overall, both the hanging wall and the footwall of the Trinidad fault show long-term positive rock uplift, which implies that the Trinidad anticline and fault are contained within the hanging wall of a deeper structure. Therefore, the Trinidad fault likely splays off of the Cascadia subduction zone megathrust or off of a deeper thrust fault that splays off of the megathrust.
What is the most important determinant of cardiometabolic risk in 60–65-year-old subjects: physical activity-related behaviours, overall energy expenditure or occupational status? A cross-sectional study in three populations with different employment status in Poland
Authors: Sołtysik Bartłomiej Konrad , Kostka Joanna , Karolczak Kamil , Watała Cezary , Kostka Tomasz
Published: July 2019

Objectives

The aim of the study was to determine whether cardiovascular risk factors may differ according to occupational status and whether physical activity related to total energy expenditure (PA-EE) and related to health-related behaviours (PA-HRB) is associated with common cardiovascular risk factors or metabolic syndrome in pre-elderly subjects.

Methods

Three hundred subjects aged 60–65 were recruited and divided into three equal groups of white-collar, blue-collar workers and unemployed subjects; 50% were women. The subjects were tested for major cardiovascular risk factors such as smoking, anthropometric indices, blood pressure, lipid levels, glucose, uric acid and homocysteine. PA-EE and PA-HRB were assessed with PA questionnaires.

Results

Blue-collar workers displayed higher anthropometric indices, blood pressure and higher PA-EE in comparison with other two groups. PA-HRB had a positive impact on body mass indices, lipids, glucose, uric acid and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome, with no such relationship observed for PA-EE.

Conclusions

The greatest cardiovascular risk was observed in the blue-collar workers group. Only PA-HRB had a positive association with cardiometabolic risk profile. No relationship was observed for PA-EE. Thus, promoting everyday life and leisure time PA behaviours is crucial for preventing cardiometabolic risk in pre-elderly subjects, even in blue-collar workers with high work-related EE.
Protocol for a pilot randomised controlled trial of an educational programme for adults on chronic haemodialysis with fatigue (Fatigue-HD)
Authors: Farragher Janine F , Thomas Chandra , Ravani Pietro , Manns Braden , Elliott Meghan J , Hemmelgarn Brenda R
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Fatigue is a pervasive symptom of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) that is associated with low quality of life, disability and mortality, and has been identified as a top research priority by patients. We developed a personalised, web-supported educational programme (the Personal Energy Planning (PEP) programme) to teach people with ESRD to use energy management to manage fatigue. Preliminary studies have demonstrated positive effects on fatigue and life participation (ie, the ability to participate in valued day-to-day activities), which justifies the need for a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to better understand the efficacy of the programme. The objectives of the pilot RCT are to estimate RCT eligibility, recruitment and attrition rates, to inform the primary outcome measure and sample size for the RCT and to evaluate treatment fidelity among programme administrators.

Methods and analysis

A parallel-arm, 1:1 pilot RCT will be conducted at four in-centre haemodialysis units in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. People on haemodialysis who report moderate or severe fatigue on the Fatigue Severity Scale, and meet other study eligibility criteria, will be invited to participate. Consenting participants will be randomised to undergo the 7–9 week ‘PEP’ programme or an active control, and followed for 12 weeks after the programme concludes. Information on eligibility, recruitment and attrition rates will be collected, and questionnaires assessing fatigue and life participation will be administered preintervention, midintervention, immediately postintervention and 12 weeks postintervention. Analyses will include calculation of eligibility, recruitment and attrition rates; power considerations for the full-scale RCT and evaluation of treatment fidelity of programme administrators.

Ethics and dissemination

Risks associated with this study are minor. Patients may experience emotional discomfort while filling out study questionnaires. They will be advised to skip any questions that make them uncomfortable. Potential benefits of participating include any benefit derived from the study intervention, and contributing to research that may benefit people with kidney disease in the future. Trial results will be disseminated via publication in an academic journal and presentation at academic conferences. The study has been approved by the Conjoint Health Research Ethics Board at the University of Calgary (ID #18-1657).
Diurnal, weekly and seasonal variations of chest pain in patients transported by emergency medical services
Authors: Faramand Ziad , Frisch Stephanie O , Martin-Gill Christian , Landis Parker , Alrawashdeh Mohammad , Al-Robaidi Khaled A , Callaway Clifton W , Al-Zaiti Salah S
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Chest pain is among the leading causes for emergency medical services (EMS) activation. Acute myocardial infarction (MI) is not only one of the most critical aetiologies of chest pain, but also one of few conditions encountered by EMS that has been shown to follow a circadian pattern. Understanding the diurnal relationship between the inflow of chest pain patients and the likelihood of acute MI may inform prehospital and emergency department (ED) healthcare providers regarding the prediction, and hence prevention, of dire outcomes.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of previously collected data from an observational prospective study that enrolled consecutive chest pain patients transported by a large metropolitan EMS system in the USA. We used the time of EMS call to determine the time-of-day of the indexed encounter. Two independent reviewers examined available medical data to determine our primary outcome, the presence of MI, and our secondary outcomes, infarct size and 30-day major adverse cardiac events (MACE). We estimated infarct size using peak troponin level.

Results

We enrolled 2065 patients (age 56±17, 53% males, 7.5% with MI). Chest pain encounters increased from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with a peak at 1:00 PM and a nadir at 6:00 AM. Acute MI had a bimodal distribution with two peaks: 10 AM in ST-elevation MI, and 10 PM in non-ST-elevation MI. ST-elevation MI with afternoon onset was an independent predictor of infarct size. Acute MI with winter and early spring presentation was an independent predictor of 30-day MACE.

Conclusions

EMS-attended chest pain calls follow a diurnal pattern, with the most vulnerable patients encountered during afternoons and winter/spring seasons. These data can inform prehospital and ED healthcare providers regarding the time of presentation where patients are more likely to have an underlying MI and subsequently worse outcomes.
Determination of the best early warning scores to predict clinical outcomes of patients in the emergency department
Authors: Spencer William , Smith Jesse , Date Patrick , de Tonnerre Erik , Taylor David McDonald
Published: July 2019

Objective

Early warning scores (EWS) are used to predict patient outcomes. We aimed to determine which of 13 EWS, based largely on emergency department (ED) vital sign data, best predict important clinical outcomes.

Method

We undertook a prospective cohort study in a metropolitan, tertiary-referral ED in Melbourne, Australia (February–April 2018). Patient demographics, vital signs and management data were collected while the patients were in the ED and EWS were calculated using each EWS criteria. Outcome data were extracted from the medical record (2-day, 7-day and 28-day inhospital mortality, clinical deterioration within 2 days, intensive care unit (ICU) admission within 2 days, admission to hospital). Area under the receiver operator characteristic (AUROC; 95% CIs) curves were used to evaluate the predictive ability of each EWS for each outcome.

Results

Of 1730 patients enrolled, 690 patients were admitted to the study hospital. Most EWS were good or excellent predictors of 2-day mortality. When considering the point estimates, the VitalPac EWS was the most strongly predictive (AUROC: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.92 to 0.99). However, when considering the 95% CIs, there was no significant difference between the highest performing EWS. The predictive ability for 7-day and 28-day mortality was generally less. No EWS was a good predictor for clinical deterioration (AUROC range: 0.54–0.70), ICU admission (range: 0.51–0.72) or admission to hospital (range: 0.51–0.68).

Conclusion

Several EWS have excellent predictive ability for 2-day mortality and have the potential to risk stratify patients in ED. No EWS adequately predicted clinical deterioration, admission to either ICU or the hospital.
ZEB1 promotes inflammation and progression towards inflammation-driven carcinoma through repression of the DNA repair glycosylase MPG in epithelial cells
Authors: de Barrios Oriol , Sanchez-Moral Lidia , Cortés Marlies , Ninfali Chiara , Profitós-Pelejà Nuria , Martínez-Campanario MC , Siles Laura , del Campo Rosa , Fernández-Aceñero María Jesús , Darling Douglas S , Castells Antoni , Maurel Joan , Salas Azucena , Dean Douglas C , Postigo Antonio
Published: July 2019

Objective

Chronic inflammation is a risk factor in colorectal cancer (CRC) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) released by the inflamed stroma elicit DNA damage in epithelial cells. We sought to identify new drivers of ulcerative colitis (UC) and inflammatory CRC.

Design

The study uses samples from patients with UC, mouse models of colitis and CRC and mice deficient for the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition factor ZEB1 and the DNA repair glycosylase N-methyl-purine glycosylase (MPG). Samples were analysed by immunostaining, qRT-PCR, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays, microbiota next-generation sequencing and ROS determination.

Results

ZEB1 was induced in the colonic epithelium of UC and of mouse models of colitis. Compared with wild-type counterparts,Zeb1-deficient mice were partially protected from experimental colitis and, in a model of inflammatory CRC, they developed fewer tumours and exhibited lower levels of DNA damage (8-oxo-dG) and higher expression of MPG. Knockdown of ZEB1 in CRC cells inhibited 8-oxo-dG induction by oxidative stress (H2O2) and inflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)1β). ZEB1 bound directly to the MPG promoter whose expression inhibited. This molecular mechanism was validated at the genetic level and the crossing ofZeb1-deficient andMpg-deficient mice reverted the reduced inflammation and tumourigenesis in the former. ZEB1 expression in CRC cells induced ROS and IL1β production by macrophages that, in turn, lowered MPG in CRC cells thus amplifying a positive loop between both cells to promote DNA damage and inhibit DNA repair.

Conclusions

ZEB1 promotes colitis and inflammatory CRC through the inhibition of MPG in epithelial cells, thus offering new therapeutic strategies to modulate inflammation and inflammatory cancer.
British Society of Gastroenterology guidelines for oesophageal manometry and oesophageal reflux monitoring
Authors: Trudgill Nigel J , Sifrim Daniel , Sweis Rami , Fullard Mark , Basu Kumar , McCord Mimi , Booth Michael , Hayman John , Boeckxstaens Guy , Johnston Brian T , Ager Nicola , De Caestecker John
Published: July 2019

These guidelines on oesophageal manometry and gastro-oesophageal reflux monitoring supersede those produced in 2006. Since 2006 there have been significant technological advances, in particular, the development of high resolution manometry (HRM) and oesophageal impedance monitoring. The guidelines were developed by a guideline development group of patients and representatives of all the relevant professional groups using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE II) tool. A systematic literature search was performed and the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) tool was used to evaluate the quality of evidence and decide on the strength of the recommendations made. Key strong recommendations are made regarding the benefit of: (i) HRM over standard manometry in the investigation of dysphagia and, in particular, in characterising achalasia, (ii) adjunctive testing with larger volumes of water or solids during HRM, (iii) oesophageal manometry prior to antireflux surgery, (iv) pH/impedance monitoring in patients with reflux symptoms not responding to high dose proton pump inhibitors and (v) pH monitoring in all patients with reflux symptoms responsive to proton pump inhibitors in whom surgery is planned, but combined pH/impedance monitoring in those not responsive to proton pump inhibitors in whom surgery is planned. This work has been endorsed by the Clinical Services and Standards Committee of the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) under the auspices of the oesophageal section of the BSG.
Truncating mutations in exons 20 and 21 ofOFD1can cause primary ciliary dyskinesia without associated syndromic symptoms
Authors: Bukowy-Bieryllo Zuzanna , Rabiasz Alicja , Dabrowski Maciej , Pogorzelski Andrzej , Wojda Alina , Dmenska Hanna , Grzela Katarzyna , Sroczynski Jakub , Witt Michal , Zietkiewicz Ewa
Published: July 2019

Background

Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a motile ciliopathy, whose symptoms include airway infections, male infertility andsitus inversus. Apart from the typical forms of PCD, rare syndromic PCD forms exist. Mutations of the X-linkedOFD1gene cause several syndromic ciliopathies, including oral-facial-digital syndrome type 1, Joubert syndrome type 10 (JBTS10), and Simpson-Golabi-Behmel syndrome type 2, the latter causing the X-linked syndromic form of PCD. Neurological and skeletal symptoms are characteristic for these syndromes, with their severity depending on the location of the mutation within the gene.

Objectives

To elucidate the role of motile cilia defects in the respiratory phenotype of PCD patients with C-terminal OFD1 mutations.

Methods

Whole-exome sequencing in a group of 120 Polish PCD patients, mutation screening of theOFD1coding sequence, analysis of motile cilia, and magnetic resonance brain imaging.

Results

Four novel hemizygousOFD1mutations, in exons 20 and 21, were found in men with a typical PCD presentation but without severe neurological, skeletal or renal symptoms characteristic for otherOFD1-related syndromes. Magnetic resonance brain imaging in two patients did not show a molar tooth sign typical for JBTS10. Cilia in the respiratory epithelium were sparse, unusually long and displayed a defective motility pattern.

Conclusion

Consistent with the literature, truncations of the C-terminal part ofOFD1(exons 16–22) almost invariably cause a respiratory phenotype (due to motile cilia defects) while their impact on the primary cilia function is limited. We suggest that exons 20–21 should be included in the panel for regular mutation screening in PCD.
Generalized entropic gravity from modified Unruh temperature
Authors: Kibaroğlu Salih
Published: July 2019

In this study, the effects of the generalized uncertainty principle on the theory of gravity are analyzed. Inspired by Verlinde’s entropic gravity approach and using the modified Unruh temperature, the generalized Einstein field equations with cosmological constant are obtained and corresponding conservation law is investigated. The resulting conservation law of energy–momentum tensor dictates that the generalized Einstein field equations are valid in a very limited range of accelerations. Moreover, the modified Newton’s law of gravity and the modified Poisson equation are derived. In a certain limit, these modified equations reduce to their standard forms.
First-principles calculations of electronic and magnetic properties of XMn2Y2 (X = Ca, Sr; Y = Sb, Bi) compounds
Authors: Zada Zeshan , Laref A. , Murtaza G. , Zeb Aurang , Yar A.
Published: July 2019

We have examined the magnetic stability; antiferromagnetic (AFM) ordering; electronic and magnetic properties of composition XMn2Y2 (X = Ca, Sr; Y = Sb, Bi) using framework of full-potential linearized augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method within generalized gradient (PBE-GGA) approximations in AFM phase. We have specified that AFM state is most suitable for these compounds as compared to other configurations at their relaxed lattice parameters. An AFM spin configuration of Mn atoms is shown to be impressive state for these compounds. Based on its electronic properties, these compounds have a metallic nature in Paramagnetic (PM) but in AFM phase it shows different nature from PM phase. From a suitable phase, it has been cleared that both Mn atoms well-adjusted antiferromagnetically.
Numerical simulation and experiment of droplet formation in circular cross-section micro-channels
Authors: Wang Hongcheng , Tang Chengxin , Zhao Miaomiao , Wu Liqun , Yu Baohua
Published: July 2019

In recent decades, microfluidics in biological applications have experienced significant growth due to their advantages of small volume, low cost, short reaction time and high throughput. Almost all cross-section shapes of micro-channels in microfluidic chips are rectangular or triangular by the existing chip fabricating technologies, including hot embossing, lithography, etching and injection molding, etc. However, compared with the above micro-channel shapes, the circular one has the advantages in aspects of fluid flow, droplet generating, heat transfer and its replication for blood vessels. This paper presents a T-junction droplet microfluidic chip with circular cross-section micro-channels. The effect of micro-channel wettability, interfacial tension, velocity and flow rate of continuous phase on droplet size are simulated and mechanism of droplets generating process is explored. Comparing with continuous phase viscosity and interfacial tension, flow rate plays a decisive role in determining the droplet size which is in the range of 100–350 [Formula: see text]m according to the simulation result. The Capillary number is affected by the above three parameters and an estimating numerical method for generated droplet size was proposed according to the above simulation results and calculated by Capillary number. The droplets, the sizes of which were in the range of 20–400 [Formula: see text]m, were produced by varying the parameters of water and oil flow rates in the designed T-junction droplet microfluidic chip with circular cross-section micro-channels.
Synthesis and Research of rare earth-doped color tunable Sr3Gd(PO4)3 phosphors
Authors: Liang Boxin , Yi Shuangping , Hu Gengqiao , Fang Zhixiong , Hu Zhengfa
Published: July 2019

Rare earth-doped Sr3Gd(PO4)3 and emission color tunable phosphors Ce[Formula: see text]/Sm[Formula: see text] co-doped Sr3Gd(PO4)3 have been synthesized by a traditional solid-state method. These phosphors were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), FE-SEM, diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), photoluminescence spectra and lifetime measurements. The quenching concentration of Ce[Formula: see text] ions in Sr3Gd(PO4)3 was about 9 mol.%. An effective energy transfer (ET) from Ce[Formula: see text] ions to Sm[Formula: see text] ions in Sr3Gd(PO4)3 was speculated by the overlapped spectrum for the emission peak of Ce[Formula: see text] and the excitation peak of Sm[Formula: see text] ions. It is demonstrated that the ET mechanism is resonant through the dipole–dipole interaction and the critical distance between Ce[Formula: see text] and Sm[Formula: see text] in Sr3Gd(PO[Formula: see text] is calculated to 15.22 Å. Moreover, Sr3Gd[Formula: see text](PO4)3:0.09Ce[Formula: see text], xSm[Formula: see text] can be adjusted systematically by generating blue light to white light in the CIE diagram which coincide with the ET process of Ce[Formula: see text] ions to Sm[Formula: see text] ions. The Sr3Gd[Formula: see text](PO4)3:0.09Ce[Formula: see text], 0.01Sm[Formula: see text] phosphor also perform at a good thermal stability. All of these experimental results in this work can be served as a potential multicolor tunable phosphor for ultraviolet pumped white light appliance.
Does bank capital affect the monetary policy transmission mechanism? A case study of Emerging Market Economies (EMEs)
Authors: Abbas Zia , Iftikhar Syed Faizan , Alam Shaista
Published: July 2019

The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of bank capital on monetary policy transmission mechanism during the period from 2010 to 2016 for 20 Emerging Market Economics (EMEs) by using the two-step system generalized method of moments (GMM). The coefficient of excess capital in low-asset countries is found to be negative which reveals the importance of excess capital for the effectiveness of monetary transmission. However, the study could not find the significance of excess capital for high-asset countries as they may afford the risky way to generate their income by increasing the loan supply.
NHERF3 is necessary for Escherichia coli heat-stable enterotoxin-induced inhibition of NHE3: differences in signaling in mouse small intestine and Caco-2 cells
Authors: Chen Tiane , Lin Ruxian , Avula Leela , Sarker Rafiquel , Yang Jianbo , Cha Boyoung , Tse Chung Ming , McNamara George , Seidler Ursula , Waldman Scott , Snook Adam , Bijvelds Marcel J.C. , de Jonge Hugo R , Li Xuhang , Donowitz Mark
Published: July 2019

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) is a leading cause of childhood death from diarrhea and the leading cause of Traveler’s diarrhea. E. coli heat-stable enterotoxin (ST) is a major virulence factor of ETEC and inhibits the brush border Na/H exchanger NHE3 in producing diarrhea. NHE3 regulation involves multiprotein signaling complexes that form on its COOH terminus. In this study, the hypothesis was tested that ST signals via members of the Na/H exchanger regulatory factor (NHERF) family of scaffolding proteins, NHERF2, which had been previously shown to have a role, and now with concentration on a role for NHERF3. Two models were used: mouse small intestine and Caco-2/BBe cells. In both models, ST rapidly increased intracellular cGMP, inhibited NHE3 activity, and caused a quantitatively similar decrease in apical expression of NHE3. The transport effects were NHERF3 and NHERF2 dependent. Also, mutation of the COOH-terminal amino acids of NHERF3 supported that NHERF3-NHERF2 heterodimerization was likely to account for this dual dependence. The ST increase in cGMP in both models was partially dependent on NHERF3. The intracellular signaling pathways by which ST-cGMP inhibits NHE3 were different in mouse jejunum (activation of cGMP kinase II, cGKII) and Caco-2 cells, which do not express cGKII (elevation of intracellular Ca2+ concentration [Ca2+]i). The ST elevation of [Ca2+]i was from intracellular stores and was dependent on NHERF3-NHERF2. This study shows that intracellular signaling in the same diarrheal model in multiple cell types may be different; this has implications for therapeutic strategies, which often assume that models have similar signaling mechanisms.
Chemokine signaling axis between endothelial and myeloid cells regulates development of pulmonary hypertension associated with pulmonary fibrosis and hypoxia
Authors: Oliveira Aline C. , Fu Chunhua , Lu Yuanqing , Williams Mason A. , Pi Liya , Brantly Mark L. , Ventetuolo Corey E. , Raizada Mohan K. , Mehrad Borna , Scott Edward W. , Bryant Andrew J.
Published: July 2019

Pulmonary hypertension complicates the care of many patients with chronic lung diseases (defined as Group 3 pulmonary hypertension), yet the mechanisms that mediate the development of pulmonary vascular disease are not clearly defined. Despite being the most prevalent form of pulmonary hypertension, to date there is no approved treatment for patients with disease. Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and endothelial cells in the lung express the chemokine receptor CXCR2, implicated in the evolution of both neoplastic and pulmonary vascular remodeling. However, precise cellular contribution to lung disease is unknown. Therefore, we used mice with tissue-specific deletion of CXCR2 to investigate the role of this receptor in Group 3 pulmonary hypertension. Deletion of CXCR2 in myeloid cells attenuated the recruitment of polymorphonuclear MDSCs to the lungs, inhibited vascular remodeling, and protected against pulmonary hypertension. Conversely, loss of CXCR2 in endothelial cells resulted in worsened vascular remodeling, associated with increased MDSC migratory capacity attributable to increased ligand availability, consistent with analyzed patient sample data. Taken together, these data suggest that CXCR2 regulates MDSC activation, informing potential therapeutic application of MDSC-targeted treatments.
Association of Synthetic House-Tree-Person Drawing Test and Depression in Cancer Patients
Authors: Yang Guifang , Zhao Liping , Sheng Lijuan
Published: July 2019

Background. Evidence regarding the relationship between synthetic house-tree-person (S-HTP) drawing test and depression in cancer patients is limited. The aim of this study was to explore the applicability and validity of S-HTP drawing test in cancer patients suffering from depression. Methods. As a population based cross-sectional study, 167 patients with cancer were enrolled in a hospital in China from December 2015 to December 2017. Self-edited general information questionnaire, self-rating depression scale (SDS), and the S-HTP drawing test were completed by all participants. Results. The average age of 167 selected participants was 52.92 ± 10.43 years old, and about 58.7% (98/167) of them were male. On SDS, depression rate was found in 34.1% (27/167) cancer patients. The logistic regression equation was established by using the depression drawing characteristics as the independent variables and the evaluation results from SDS as the dependent variable and 9 drawing characteristics employed in the regression equation (χ2 = 68.657, P < 0.001. Nagelkerke R2 = 0.466). Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between S-HTP drawing test and SDS for depression state of cancer patients (p < 0.01). Conclusions. There are interrater reliability and test-retest reliability between S-HTP drawing test and SDS. The S-HTP drawing test could help in screening depression in cancer patients.
Local Anesthesia for Port Catheter Placement in Oncology Patients: An Alternative to Landmark Technique Using Ultrasound-Guided Superficial Cervical Plexus Block—A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Akelma Hakan , Salık Fikret , Bıçak Mustafa , Erbatur Meral Erdal
Published: July 2019

Background/Objectives. Most patients that require port operation have experienced severe pain due to multiple surgeries in the past. Therefore, these patients have fear of pain before the procedure. This study aims to compare superficial cervical plexus block (SCPB) with local infiltration anesthesia in terms of comfort. Methods. 100 cancer-diagnosed patients were divided into two groups. The first group, the landmark technique with local infiltration anesthesia, was used for intravenous entry (Group LM, n = 50). The second group, USG, was used for venous entry with SCPB as anesthesia (Group US, n = 50). The type of local anesthesia, port placement technique, duration of the procedure, number of procedures, complications, visual analog scale (VAS) score, and surgeon’s satisfaction with the procedure were recorded. Results. It was established that an average of 1.7 and 1.1 attempts was conducted in Groups LM and US, respectively (P = 0.010). VAS scores were found to be 4.04 in Group LM and 2.62 in GroupUS (P = 0.001). Surgeon satisfaction was 1.96 in GroupLM and 2.38 in GroupUS (P = 0.014). The mean duration of the procedure was 22.10 minutes in GroupLM and 43.50 minutes in GroupUS (P = 0.001). Complication rates were observed in 1 patient in GroupLM and 9 patient in GroupUS (P = 0.040). Conclusions. In the patient group with a high level of pain and anxiety port catheter placement using USG and SCPB, supported by routine sedation, provides better comfort for both patient and surgeon.
Application of Constant Resistance and Large Deformation Anchor Cable in Soft Rock Highway Tunnel
Authors: Sun Xiaoming , Zhang Bo , Gan Li , Tao Zhigang , Zhao Chengwei
Published: July 2019

Muzhailing Highway Extra‐long Tunnel in Lanzhou, Gansu Province, China, belongs to the soft rock tunnel in the extremely high geostress area. During the construction process, large deformation of the soft rock occurred frequently. Taking the no. 2 inclined shaft of Muzhailing tunnel as the research object, an NPR (negative Poisson’s ratio) constant resistance and large deformation anchor cable support system based on high prestress force, constant resistance, and releasing surrounding rock pressure was proposed. The characteristics of the surrounding rock under the steel arch support and NPR anchor cable support were compared and analyzed by using 3DEC software. A series of field tests were conducted in the no. 2 inclined shaft, and the rock strength, displacement of the surrounding rock, deep displacement of the surrounding rock, internal force of steel arch, and axial force of anchor cable were measured to study the application effect of the NPR anchor cable support system in tunnel engineering. Moreover, the 3DEC numerical simulation results were compared with the field test results. The research results show that the application of NPR constant resistance and large deformation anchor cable support system in tunnel engineering has achieved good results, and it plays a significant role in controlling the large deformation of the tunnel surrounding rock.
Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Cytotoxic, and Protein Kinase Inhibition Potential inAloe veraL.
Authors: Tariq Huma , Zia Muhammad , Ihsan-ul-Haq  , Muhammad Syed Aun , Khan Shujaat Ali , Fatima Nighat , Mannan Abdul , Abbasi Arshad Mehmood , Zhang Mingxing
Published: July 2019

Aloe verais a multifunctional plant that has gained acceptance as an excellent home remedy source in Asia and the world. The present study was intended to evaluate the phytochemical contents andin vitroantioxidant, antimicrobial, antileishmanial, and protein kinase inhibition activities in different fractions ofA. veraleaf. Methanolic extract ofA. veraleaves was fractionated using column chromatography and ten fractions (AV1-AV10) were obtained. Phenolics composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antileishmanial, and protein kinase inhibition activities were evaluated using standard protocols. Well-known compounds ofA. verawere used for in silico study against enzymes involved in brine shrimp and antileishmanial and hyphae formation inhibition assay on the basis of results. Five fractions (AV3 to AV7) possess potential total phenolics and flavonoids contents along with significant biological activities. AV4 fraction exhibited the highest total phenolics content 332.4 ± 32.6μg GAE/mg and total antioxidant activity 150.4 ± 25.815μg AAE/mg determined by phosphomolybdenum complex assay. Fraction AV6 showed 95% antileishmanial effect as well as the lowest LD50value of 0.5305μg/mL in brine shrimp lethality assay. The Protein Kinase inhibition potential inA. veraleaves was determined for the first time and three fractions AV1, AV6, and AV7 depicted activity with the highest zone of inhibition up to 21±0.5mm (AV7). Docking analysis showed thatA. veracontains anthraquinones, anthrones, chromones, and polysaccharides responsible for synergistic cytotoxic, antileishmanial, antibacterial, and antioxidant potential of this plant. Therefore, with more studies,A. veracould probably have the potential to be used for drug development against leishmaniasis.
Characterization of Novel Nonobese Type 2 Diabetes Rat Model with Enlarged Kidneys
Authors: Domon Ayaka , Katayama Kentaro , Tochigi Yuki , Suzuki Hiroetsu
Published: July 2019

A variety of animal models of diabetes mellitus (DM) are required to study the genetics and pathophysiology of DM. We established a novel rat strain showing nonobese type 2 diabetes with enlarged kidneys from the LEA.PET-petcongenic strain and named it Diabetes with Enlarged Kidney (DEK). The body growth of DEK affected rats was similar to that of normal rats before the development of DM but was attenuated with the deterioration of DM. There was a marked difference in the etiology of DEK by gender: DM phenotypes including polyuria, polydipsia, and hyperglycemia (nonfasting blood glucose over 300 mg/dl) were found in male rats aged over 10 weeks but not in female rats. The cumulative incidence of DM in DEK males at the age of 30 weeks was 44.8%. Oral glucose tolerance tests showed glucose intolerance and decreased insulin secretion in response to glucose loading in affected males, features which were exacerbated with age. Affected males exhibited disorganized architecture of pancreatic islets, decreased numbers ofβcells, and markedly decreased expression of insulin, despite no pathological findings of hemorrhage or infiltration of inflammatory cells in the pancreatic islet. Age-related islet fibrosis appeared similar in normal and affected males. Affected males also showed enlarged kidneys with dilation of renal tubules in both the cortex and medulla, but no obvious glomerular lesions typical of diabetic nephropathy (DN) at the age of 30 weeks. Plasma levels of urea nitrogen and creatinine were normal, but hypoalbuminemia was detected. These pathophysiological features in affected males indicated that their renal function was almost maintained despite severe DM. Taken together, these findings indicate that the affected males of the DEK strain are a novel nonobese type 2 diabetes rat model useful for studying the mechanisms underlyingβcell loss and identifying genetic factors protective against DN.
Tissue Composition and Biomechanical Property Changes in the Vaginal Wall of Ovariectomized Young Rats
Authors: Mao Meng , Li Yaqian , Zhang Ye , Kang Jia , Zhu Lan
Published: July 2019

Ideal animal models are needed to reflect the changes in the biochemical and biomechanical properties of the vagina that occur in pelvic organ prolapse (POP). In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the short and long-term effect of menopause on the biochemical and biomechanical properties of rat anterior vaginas. Here, Sprague-Dawley rats were bilaterally ovariectomized to induce menopause. Rats without ovariectomy served as the normal control group (n=12). The histology changes and the expression of collagen I, III, and a-SMA were assessed to indicate the biochemical changes in the vagina 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 16 weeks after ovariectomy (n=6 for 2 and 4 weeks, n=12 for 16 weeks). Uniaxial biomechanical testing was conducted in the control group and ovariectomized rats 16 weeks after ovariectomy. Compared with the control group, the ovariectomy group showed a significant increase in the expression of collagen I 2 weeks after ovariectomy, while collagen III showed a declining trend. Two weeks after ovariectomy, the smooth muscle bundles began to become disorganized, and the fraction of smooth muscle in the nonvascular muscularis of the proximal vagina was significantly decreased (P<0.001). However, there was no difference in the expression of a-SMA in the distal vagina. Compared with the control group, the ovariectomy group had stiffer vaginas with a declining trend in the ultimate load 16 weeks after ovariectomy. In conclusion, surgically induced menopause had a significant short- and long-term impact on tissue composition and biomechanical properties of the rat vagina, which may lead to increased susceptibility to POP development.
A New Decision Method for Public Opinion Crisis with the Intervention of Risk Perception of the Public
Authors: Wang Zhiying , Liu Xiaodi , Zhang Shitao
Published: July 2019

Decision‐making for selecting response plans problem (SRPP) has been widely concerning to scholars. However, most of the existing studies on this problem are focused on public emergencies, and little attention has been paid to the decision‐makers’ urgent need for solving the SRPP in response to public opinion crisis (POC) that may lead to panic buying of materials derived from public emergencies. POC has obvious characteristics of group behaviors that directly resulted from panics and psychological appeals of the public. Therefore, for solving the SRPP in POC, it is necessary to consider the deep‐seated cause that result in panics and psychological appeals of the public, i.e., risk perception of the public (RPP). Firstly, the multicase study is employed to describe the SRPP of POC, and thus eight typical cases are chosen to analyze POC and its relevant response measures. Then, the RPP is described with prospect theory through considering the behavioral characteristics and critical sense of the public, the response measures of decision‐makers, and the importance and ambiguity of POC. Further, considering the behavioral characteristics of decision‐makers and the impact of alternative response plans on the evolution of POC scenarios, a new decision method for solving the SRPP with the intervention of the RPP is proposed by using cumulative prospect theory and a manner of comparing alternatives for each other. Finally, an example is given to illustrate the potential application and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Connecting Students with Patients and Survivors to Enhance Cancer Research Training
Authors: Riter Robert N. , Weiss Robert S.
Published: July 2019

The professional training of cancer researchers in the basic sciences rarely involves interactions with patients. To provide nascent cancer scientists with an appreciation for and experience in interacting with the people most vested in their work, we created a program at Cornell University in which cancer researchers in training engage with the local patient community. Through this program, trainees gain a broader understanding of cancer, beyond the fundamental biology, and learn to effectively communicate scientific information to the public. We find that trainees and community members both benefit from interacting with one another and learning together about cancer using a common language.
Sculpture in a Spin: Surfaces in Deformation in Mat Collishaw’s The Centrifugal Soul
Authors: Chittenden Tara
Published: July 2019

In The Centrifugal Soul, Mat Collishaw utilises the principles of the zoetrope to create a sculpture where birds and plants appear as ghostly forms suspended outside of the sculpture’s tangible base. The technique of the zoetrope allows for the temporal aspects of a 3D-printed topology to transform perceptions of movement from space to space and from form to form as well as to choreograph an overall composition of space and the dance of display. The intersection of the material arts with optical and natural sciences encourages a sophisticated choreography of viewer perceptions that calls not only on what viewers can see but also what they cannot. My interest is to draw upon some of the conceptual and aesthetic possibilities implied by such choreographic promise in the act of perceiving sculpture. The Centrifugal Soul demonstrates a concern with surface as a site of emergence, or potentially sculpture as a site of emergence for new intensities, expanding and thickening the limits of what we can understand as surface or substance. The behaviour of these surfaces in deformation highlights imaginative possibilities for sculpture to unpack the ephemeral and fluid, including where sculpture might become a technological mediation of vision. I conclude that Collishaw choreographs the intervallic nature of image processes and technologies, and the concepts of motion, time, light and darkness potentially to shift our understanding of the identity of sculpture from an ontological foundation to an epistemological one.
Nest-site fidelity in Lesser Kestrels: a case of Win–Stay/Lose–Shift?
Authors: Ilan Edith Katsnelson , Bobek Orli , Gal Adiv , Saltz David , Motro Uzi
Published: July 2019

We studied Lesser Kestrels’ (Falco naumanni) conditional nest-site fidelity, i.e., fidelity that depends on the outcome of the previous nesting attempt in that site. In particular, we were interested in examining whether individual kestrels practice a Win–Stay/Lose–Shift (WSLS) strategy towards their nest-sites; that is, does the tendency to use the same nest-site increase following a successful nesting season, but decrease following a failure. For that purpose, we documented the use of nest-sites by Lesser Kestrels and the breeding success in these sites during 1998–2003 in the city of Jerusalem (Israel). We found that while Lesser Kestrels do not practice WSLS strategy towards their nest-site, the males (but not the females) do so towards their sub-colony – they tend to stay in the same sub-colony if their nesting was successful, whereas they tend to migrate to a different sub-colony after failure. A possible explanation to this sexual difference in WSLS behavior can arise from the fact that changing a sub-colony entails a change of hunting area. The male, being the main food provider in the Lesser Kestrel, may be more sensitive to this opportunity.
Macro- and micro-morphometrical seed characters in seven species of Egyptian Datura and Nicotiana (Solanaceae)
Authors: BARAKAT NASSER A.M. , SOLIMAN M.S.A. , ZAHRAN FATMA A.
Published: July 2019

This work describes and compares the external macro- and micro-morphometrical features of the seed of seven species of Datura and Nicotiana belonging to two tribes of the Solanaceae. Fourteen unique characters were measured and described, the results of which reveal marked differences, both among and within genera. The species of Datura exhibited higher values than those of Nicotiana in all morphometrically measured parameters, such as seed weight, size, perimeter, and surface area, with no or little variation in roundness and eccentricity. For qualitative features, the notched outline, rough texture, pitted ornamentation, circular hilum shape, and stellate coat pattern characterized all examined species of Nicotiana. The yellow colour of the seeds can be used to distinguish the seeds of Nicotiana glauca from the brown seeds of other Nicotiana species examined in this study. The circular shape of the hilum distinguishes the seeds of Datura innoxia from those of Datura metel, which have oral-shaped hilum. Considerable differences in seed coat morphology were found both among and within species. However, the size and shape of the seed can be useful and stable characters, and the position of the hilum had some taxonomic significance.
Accelerating taxonomic discovery through automated character extraction
Authors: LA SALLE JOHN , WHEELER QUENTIN , JACKWAY PAUL , WINTERTON SHAUN , HOBERN DONALD , LOVELL DAVID
Published: July 2019

This paper discusses the following key messages. Taxonomy is (and taxonomists are) more important than ever in times of global change. Taxonomic endeavour is not occurring fast enough: in 250 years since the creation of the Linnean Systema Naturae, only about 20% of Earth’s species have been named. We need fundamental changes to the taxonomic process and paradigm to increase taxonomic productivity by orders of magnitude. Currently, taxonomic productivity is limited principally by the rate at which we capture and manage morphological information to enable species discovery. Many recent (and welcomed) initiatives in managing and delivering biodiversity information and accelerating the taxonomic process do not address this bottleneck. Development of computational image analysis and feature extraction methods is a crucial missing capacity needed to enable taxonomists to overcome the taxonomic impediment in a meaningful time frame.
A potentially contentious case of correction under Article 32.5.1.1 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature
Authors: DICKINSON EDWARD C. , DAVID NORMAND , GREGORY STEVEN M. S.
Published: July 2019

On page 188 of the same number[1] of the journal volume in which the above pair of names appeared a corrigendum specifies: ‘P. 163. Line 7, erase the words “brachypterus or”’. This action by Gould's publisher introduced a correction that leaves macrorhynchus as the correct original spelling, and this was also used in the index of the volume. It should be observed that the correction is also consistent with Gould's description ("rostro praegrandi", "bill ... also projects much farther…than in any other species inhabiting Australia"), and with the lack of a comment therein on wing length. Gould (1865: 89) used "brachypterus" (which could be viewed as a First Reviser act under Art. 24.2.4), and Mathews (1912: 282) selected "brachypterus" (which could be viewed as a First Reviser act under Art. 24.2.3), but these later acts are unnecessary and nullified as the precedence of the spelling macrorhynchus is objectively determined under Arts. 24.2.5 and 32.5.1.1 combined with Art. 86.3. [1] Duncan (1937) dated pages 119–188 ‘July 1841’.
Review of the Neotropical species of Nervijuncta Marshall, 1896 (Diptera, Ditomyiidae)
Authors: FALASCHI RAFAELA LOPES , DE SOUZA AMORIM DALTON
Published: July 2019

Both known Neotropical species of Nervijuncta – N. conjuncta (Freeman) and N. laffooni Lane – are redescribed and the male terminalia illustrated in detail. Specimens of N. laffooni, previously known only from the type-locality (São Paulo, Brazil), are reported from Nova Teutônia, and Urubici, both in the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil. The females of both Neotropical species of the genus are described in detail and the genitalia illustrated for the first time. These redescriptions provide further information on the position of these two species within the genus.