bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhaled particulate matter affects immune responsiveness of human lung phagocytes to mycobacteria
Authors: Paarwater Brandon A. , Mouton Jomien M. , Sampson Samantha L. , Malherbe Stephanus T. , Shaw Jane A. , Walzl Gerhard , Kotze Leigh A. , du Plessis Nelita
Published: July 2021

The influence of smoke-derived or air pollution-derived cytoplasmic particulate matter (PM) can be detrimental and can lead to failed lung immunity. We investigated mycobacterial uptake, intracellular replication, and soluble immune-mediator responses of human bronchoalveolar lavage cells (BALCs) loaded with/without PM, to infection with mycobacterial strains. We observed that only BALCs containing PM display an ex vivo phenotypic profile dominated by spontaneous interleukin (IL)-10 production. PM-loaded BALCs retained the ability to phagocytose both Mycobacterium bovis Bacille Calmette Guérin (BCG) and Mycobacterium tuberculosis ( M.tb) ΔleuDΔpanCD at equal efficacy as clear non-PM-loaded BALCs. However, immune responsiveness, such as the production of IL-6 ( P = 0.015) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF)-α ( P = 0.0172) immediately post M. bovis BCG infection, were dramatically lower in black BALCs loaded with PM versus clear non-PM-loaded BALCs. By 24 h post infection, differential immune responses to M. bovis BCG between black versus clear BALC waned, and instead, production of IL-6 ( P = 0.03) and IL-1α ( P = 0.04) by black BALCs was lower versus clear BALCs following M.tb ΔleuDΔpanCD infection. Considering that TNF-α and IL-6 are characterized as critical to host protection against mycobacteria, our findings suggest that BALCs loaded with inhaled PM, display lower levels of antimycobacterial mediators and that the response magnitude differs according to infective mycobacterial strain. Even though this did not translate into altered mycobacterial killing at early time points post infection, the long-term impact of such changes remains to be established.
Anemic hypoxemia reduces myoblast proliferation and muscle growth in late-gestation fetal sheep
Authors: Rozance Paul J. , Wesolowski Stephanie R. , Jonker Sonnet S. , Brown Laura D.
Published: July 2021

Fetal skeletal muscle growth requires myoblast proliferation, differentiation, and fusion into myofibers in addition to protein accretion for fiber hypertrophy. Oxygen is an important regulator of this process. Therefore, we hypothesized that fetal anemic hypoxemia would inhibit skeletal muscle growth. Studies were performed in late-gestation fetal sheep that were bled to anemic and therefore hypoxemic conditions beginning at ∼125 days of gestation (term = 148 days) for 9 ± 0 days ( n = 19) and compared with control fetuses ( n = 16). A metabolic study was performed on gestational day ∼134 to measure fetal protein kinetic rates. Myoblast proliferation and myofiber area were determined in biceps femoris (BF), tibialis anterior (TA), and flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) muscles. mRNA expression of muscle regulatory factors was determined in BF. Fetal arterial hematocrit and oxygen content were 28% and 52% lower, respectively, in anemic fetuses. Fetal weight and whole body protein synthesis, breakdown, and accretion rates were not different between groups. Hindlimb length, however, was 7% shorter in anemic fetuses. TA and FDS muscles weighed less, and FDS myofiber area was smaller in anemic fetuses compared with controls. The percentage of Pax7+ myoblasts that expressed Ki67 was lower in BF and tended to be lower in FDS from anemic fetuses indicating reduced myoblast proliferation. There was less MYOD and MYF6 mRNA expression in anemic versus control BF consistent with reduced myoblast differentiation. These results indicate that fetal anemic hypoxemia reduced muscle growth. We speculate that fetal muscle growth may be improved by strategies that increase oxygen availability.
Modulatory Effect of Probiotics on Proinflammatory Cytokine Levels in Acrylamide-Treated Rats
Authors: Seifati Seyed Mohammad , Zaker Erfan , Fesahat Farzaneh , Zare Fateme , Hekmatimoghaddam Seyedhossein
Published: July 2021

The aims of this study are to investigate the effect of acrylamide on the level of proinflammatory cytokines in the blood of acrylamide-treated rats and to find the modulatory impact of probiotics on those cytokines. Thirty-two rats were divided into four groups: rats which received 20 mg acrylamide, acrylamide with 20 mg probiotics, acrylamide with 200 mg probiotics, and standard water and food (groups 1–4, respectively). The serum levels of cytokines were measured on days 0, 15, and 30. Group 1 showed an increased serum level of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α after 15 days, and they decreased in day 30. Serum IL-6 level was significantly decreased on days 15 and 30 in rats in group 2 compared to the controls. TNF-α and IL-1β levels were not statistically different after treated with probiotics. The exposure of rats to acrylamide led to increased systemic inflammation as evidenced by higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines, and probiotics can modulate this inflammation.
Finite‐Time Admissibility and Controller Design for T‐S Fuzzy Stochastic Singular Systems with Distinct Differential Term Matrices
Authors: Qiao Liang , Lv Zhaomin
Published: July 2021

The finite‐time admissibility analysis and controller design issues for extended T‐S fuzzy stochastic singular systems (FSSSs) with distinct differential term matrices and Brownian parameter perturbations are discussed. When differential term matrices are allowed to be distinct in fuzzy rules, such fuzzy models can describe a wide class of nonlinear stochastic systems. Using fuzzy Lyapunov function (FLF), a new and relaxed sufficient condition is proposed via strict linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Different from the existing stability conditions by FLF, the derivative bounds of fuzzy membership functions are not required in this condition. Based on admissibility analysis results, a design method for parallel distribution compensation (PDC) controller of FSSSs is given to guarantee the finite‐time admissibility of the closed‐loop system. Finally, the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed methods in this article are illustrated with three examples.
Study of the G Protein Nucleolar 2 Value in Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treatment and Prognosis
Authors: Dong Yiwei , Cai Qianqian , Fu Lisheng , Liu Haojie , Ma Mingzhe , Wu Xingzhong
Published: July 2021

LIHC (liver hepatocellular carcinoma) mostly occurs in patients with chronic liver disease. It is primarily induced by a vicious cycle of liver injury, inflammation, and regeneration that usually last for decades. The G protein nucleolar 2 (GNL2), as a protein‐encoding gene, is also known as NGP1, Nog2, Nug2, Ngp‐1, and HUMAUANTIG. Few reports are shown towards the specific biological function of GNL2. Meanwhile, it is still unclear whether it is related to the pathogenesis of carcinoma up to date. Here, our study attempts to validate the role and function of GNL2 in LIHC via multiple databases and functional assays. After analysis of gene expression profile from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, GNL2 was largely heightened in LIHC, and its overexpression displayed a close relationship with different stages and poor prognosis of carcinoma. After enrichment analysis, the data revealed that the genes coexpressed with GNL2 probably participated in ribosome biosynthesis which was essential for unrestricted growth of carcinoma. Cell functional assays presented that GNL2 knockdown by siRNA in LIHC cells MHCC97‐H and SMCC‐7721 greatly reduced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion ability. All in all, these findings capitulated that GNL2 could be a promising treatment target and prognosis biomarker for LIHC.
Mechanism of Support Optimization and Confined Blasting of Thick and Hard Rock with a Wedge-Structure Immediate Roof: A Case Study
Authors: Zhao Tong , Gong Peilin , Yetilmezsoy Kaan , Bahramian Majid , Liu Changyou , Gong Xiaofei
Published: July 2021

Based on the occurrence conditions of a thick and hard main roof and wedge-structure immediate roof in the Zhuxianzhuang Coal Mine, the fracture characteristics and instability migration law of a thick and hard roof (THR) were examined via physical simulations. Mining zones were divided with respect to the strata behaviors and roof control difficulty levels, and the principles and methods of zonal control under THR were put forward. This study proposed a coordinated control strategy of using confined blasting in water-filled deep holes, and reasonable support optimization, which could effectively reduce the roof fracture size, increases the supporting intensity and eliminate roof-control disasters. The length of confined blasting blocks and supporting intensity were calculated using a mechanical model for roof control in the strong strata behavior zone and less-strong strata behavior zone. These key parameters were determined as 20–25 m and 1.15–1.28 MPa, respectively, and the mining strategy was successfully applied in working face 880, performing high security and reasonable economical efficiency.
Hydromethanolic Crude Extract of the Leaf of Urtica simensis Hochst. ex. A. Rich. (Urticaceae) Acquires Appreciable Antiulcer Effect: Validation for In Vivo Antiulcer Activity
Authors: Sisay Woretaw , Andargie Yared , Molla Mulugeta , Norahun Alefe
Published: July 2021

Background. Urtica simensis has been used for the treatment of peptic ulcer disease in Ethiopian folkloric medicine by drinking its juice after boiling the semicrushed leaf. To our latest understanding, no in vivo study was available regarding its antiulcer activity. The present study was done to appraise the ulcer-protective and ulcer healing activity of hydromethanolic crude extract of leaf of U. simensis in rats. Methods. Preliminary qualitative phytochemical screening and oral acute toxicity were carried out using a standard protocol. To validate U. simensis in vivo antiulcer potential pyloric ligature, cold restraint stress and acetic acid-induced ulcer models were employed. The extracts (100, 200, and 400 mg per kg of body weight per day), standard treatment (omeprazole 20 mg/kg/day), and vehicle (distilled water 10 ml/kg/day) were given to treatment, positive, and negative controls by oral gavage, respectively. Parameters were then evaluated accordingly after the humane scarification of rats. Results. Any sign of toxicity was not observed in the oral acute toxicity test. The crude extracts exerted a significant (P<0.05) inhibition of ulcer risk compared to the negative control. In the pylorus ligation-induced ulcer model, its antisecretory activity was in a dose-dependent manner. The highest gastroprotective effect (67.68%) was exhibited by the 400 mg/kg/day dose of 80% methanolic crude extract. Regarding the chronic ulcer model, treatment at a dosage of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day cures ulcers by 33.54%, 58.33%, and 67.07%, respectively, as compared to the negative control groups remarkably. Conclusion. The findings of the present study confirmed the safety and a promising in vivo ulcer healing and antiulcerogenic activity of U. simensis, thus supporting the traditional claim. In-depth investigations on the plant, however, are highly recommended.
Risk Factors of Tumor Patients with Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter Related Thrombosis and Nursing Intervention Analysis Mediated by Algorithm-Based Ultrasound Images
Authors: Chen Lifei , Hu Yingying
Published: July 2021

This paper aimed to explore the risk factors of peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) related thrombosis (PICC-RT) in tumor patients mediated by ultrasound images under minimum variance (MV) algorithm and put forward the corresponding nursing intervention methods based on the risk factors. The smoothing algorithm, diagonal loading algorithm, and coherence factor algorithm were optimized via MV algorithm. The optimized algorithm was compared with other algorithms to analyze its image quality and image processing speed. Literature retrieval was conducted to analyze the risk factors of PICC-RT in tumor patients. Tumor patients who received PICC for chemotherapy in the hospital from June 2018 to December 2019 were selected. Patients who were accepted before the experiment were taken as the controls, and there were control group (89 cases) and observation group (91 cases). Exercise, average flow rate of axillary vein per unit time, and PICC-RT were compared between the two groups. The results showed that the optimized algorithm (MV-N) had better image resolution, image contrast, and calculation speed than other algorithms. Gender, body mass index (BMI), pathological type, clinical stage, disease history, fibrinogen (FIB), and use of anticoagulant drugs were risk factors for PICC-RT in tumor patients. The number of PICC-RT and complications in the observation group was notably lower in contrast to the control group (

P
<
0.05

). It indicated that a novel algorithm was successfully established, which could increase the ultrasonic image quality and computing speed, and upper limb exercise could reduce the incidence of PICC-RT and its complications in tumor patients.
Sales Strategy considering Advertising in Advance-Selling and Spot-Selling Integration Mode for Fresh Product
Authors: Zhang Bo , Yang Lan , Zhang Meng , Li Yanhui
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we look into the optimal sales strategy of e-commerce platform which sells fresh-product advertising in advance-selling period and spot-selling period, respectively, when advance-selling and spot-selling integration mode is applied. The study found that, with the increase of advertising investment, the marginal benefit of e-commerce platform is declining; whether advertising during the advance-selling period or the advertising during the spot-selling period, the e-commerce platform can improve its profit, but under the same advertising effect factor, the optimal advertising investment for the sale period is smaller, and the profit when advertising in the advance-selling period is greater. When advertising in different periods, the optimal advertising and price strategy depends on the maximum valuation of consumers about the product and the advertising effect factor.
MRI Image Segmentation Model with Support Vector Machine Algorithm in Diagnosis of Solitary Pulmonary Nodule
Authors: Feng Bo , Zhang Meihua , Zhu Hanlin , Wang Lingang , Zheng Yanli
Published: July 2021

This study focused on the application value of MRI images processed by a Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm-based model in diagnosis of benign and malignant solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN). The SVM algorithm was constrained by a self-paced regularization item and gradient value to establish the MRI image segmentation model (SVM-L) for lung. Its performance was compared factoring into the Dice index (DI), sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), and Mean Square Error (MSE). 28 SPN patients who underwent the parallel MRI examination were selected as research subjects and were divided into the benign group (11 patients) and malignant group (17 patients) according to different plans for diagnosis and treatment. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) at different b values was analyzed, and the steepest slope (SS) and washout ratio (WR) values in the two groups were calculated. The result showed that the MSE, DI, SE, SP values, and operation time of the SVM-L model were (0.41 ± 0.02), (0.84 ± 0.13), (0.89 ± 0.04), (0.993 ± 0.004), and (30.69 ± 2.60)s, respectively, apparently superior to those of the other algorithms, but there were no statistic differences (

P
>
0.05

) in the WR value between the two groups of patients. The SS values of the time-signal curve in the benign and malignant groups were (2.52 ± 0.69) %/s and (3.34 ± 00.41) %/s, respectively. Obviously, the SS value of the benign group was significantly lower than that of the malignant group (

P
<
0.01

). The ADC value with different b values in the benign group was significantly lower than that of the malignant group (

P
<
0.01

). It suggested that the SVM-L model significantly improved the quality of lung MRI images and increased the accuracy to differentiate benign and malignant SPN, providing reference for the diagnosis and treatment of SPN patients.
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Affects Pinch Strength and Hand Dexterity in Elderly Patients
Authors: Zhang Qi , Lin Yifang , Liu Xinhua , Zhang Li , Zhang Yan , Zhao Dong , Lu Qi , Jia Jie
Published: July 2021

Objective. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is one of the most common chronic complications of diabetes, leading to disability and decreased quality of life. In past research and clinical studies, the lower limb function of DPN patients was often the principal subject of research, with little attention given to the upper limb and hand. Our goal was to assess and compare hand function between elderly diabetic patients with DPN and without DPN. Methods. A total of 52 diabetic patients were registered and underwent hand function assessments and electrodiagnostic tests. Dynamometer, pinch meter, Semmes Weinstein monofilaments, and the Purdue Pegboard Test (PPT) were used to assess the patients’ grip strength, pinch strength, tactile sensory threshold, and hand dexterity. Results. Compared with the non-DPN group, the elderly DPN group showed worse thumb-middle fingertip pinch strength and thumb-little fingertip pinch strength in the dominant hand (3.50 (2.50, 4.25) vs. 4.50 (3.00, 5.00),

p
=
0.019

; 1.50 (1.00, 2.00) vs. 2.50 (2.00, 3.00),

p
<
0.001

); the elderly DPN group displayed worse thumb-middle fingertip pinch strength, thumb-ring fingertip pinch strength, and thumb-little fingertip pinch strength in the nondominant hand (3.50 (2.00, 4.50) vs. 4.00 (3.00, 5.00),

p
=
0.013

; 2.50 (1.25, 3.00) vs. 3.00 (2.50, 3.50),

p
=
0.033

; 1.00 (0.75, 2.25) vs. 2.50 (2.00, 2.50),

p
<
0.001

). The elderly DPN group scored lower than the non-DPN group on the PPT test of assembly (

13.96
±
5.18

vs.

16.96
±
4.61

,

t
=
2.212

,

p
=
0.032

). Conclusion. Motor function limitation is the principal hand dysfunction in elderly patients with DPN, which is mainly manifested as a decline in fingertip pinch strength and a decrease in hand dexterity. This trial is registered with Clinical Trial Registry no. ChiCTR1900025358.
Behavioral Responses and Expression of Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ and Its Receptor (N/OFQ-NOP System) during Experimental Tooth Movement in Rats
Authors: Liao Zhengyu , Long Hu , Song Zhiping , He Yuwei , Lai Wenli
Published: July 2021

Objective. To determine behavioral testing after experimental tooth movement in rats and to explore the role of nociceptin/orphanin FQ and its receptor (the N/OFQ-NOP system) in pain induced by experimental tooth movement. Design. The mouth-wiping behavior of rats was assessed by studying behavioral responses after experimental tooth movement. The distribution of N/OFQ in the periodontal ligament, the trigeminal ganglion (TG), and the caudal one-third of the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (Vc) was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The variations in N/OFQ expression in the TG and Vc were measured by Western blotting. The ongoing changes in the gene expression of the prepronociceptin gene and opioid receptor-like 1 receptor were assessed in the TG and Vc by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results. Overall, the mouth-wiping behavior increased significantly. The behavior first increased and then gradually decreased to a low level, showing cyclical variation. N/OFQ immunoreactivity increased in the periodontal ligament after tooth movement. ppN/OFQ mRNA and protein levels showed a time-dependent increase in the TG and were positively correlated with pain stimulus. NOP gene levels showed large fluctuations. In the Vc, the expression and changes in the N/OFQ-NOP system showed the opposite trend as those noted in TG and the periodontal membrane. Conclusion. The N/OFQ system may have a complex regulatory function in the pain induced by tooth movement and may be related to inflammation caused by orthodontic tooth movement and periodontal damage. The specific mechanism remains to be further studied.
Flagellin Alleviates Airway Allergic Response by Stabilizing Eosinophils through Modulating Oxidative Stress
Authors: Luo Xiang-Qian , Liu Jun , Mo Li-Hua , Yang Gui , Ma Fei , Ning Yan , Yang Ping-Chang , Liu Da-Bo
Published: July 2021

Eosinophil (Eo) degranulation plays a central role in the initiations of allergic attacks. Flagellin (FGN), the major component of bacterial flagella, has immune regulatory functions. This study aims to investigate the role of FGN in alleviating the allergic reaction by stabilizing Eos. A toll-like receptor 5-knockout mouse strain was employed to test the role of FGN in stabilizing Eos. An airway allergy mouse model was developed to test the administration of FGN in alleviating the airway allergy by stabilizing Eos. The results showed that FGN was required in stabilizing Eos in the airway tissues. FGN prevented specific antigen-induced Eo activation. Oxidative stress was associated with the antigen-induced Eo activation that could be counteracted by the presence of FGN. The FGN levels were lower and chymase levels were higher in the airway tissues of mice with allergic inflammation. Negative correlation was detected between the data of FGN and chymase in the lung tissues. Chymase physically contacted FGN to speed up its degradation. The administration of FGN alleviated experimental allergic inflammation in the mouse airways by stabilized Eos in the lung tissues. In conclusion, FGN contributes to Eo stabilization. The administration of FGN alleviates the experimental airway allergy. The data suggest that FGN can be a candidate to be employed in the treatment of allergic disorders.
The Worsening of Positional Mild Obstructive Sleep Apnea over Time Is Associated with an Increase in Body Weight: Impact on Blood Pressure and Autonomic Nervous System
Authors: Chang Wei-Hsiu , Wu Hsien-Chang , Lan Chou-Chin , Wu Yao-Kuang , Yang Mei-Chen
Published: July 2021

Background: Most patients with mild obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are positional dependent. Although mild OSA worsens over time, no study has assessed the natural course of positional mild OSA. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the natural course of positional mild OSA, its most valuable progression predictor, and its impact on blood pressure (BP) and the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Methods: This retrospective observational cohort study enrolled 86 patients with positional mild OSA and 26 patients with nonpositional mild OSA, with a follow-up duration of 32.0 ± 27.6 months and 37.6 ± 27.8 months, respectively. Polysomnographic variables, BP, and ANS functions were compared between groups at baseline and after follow-up. Results: In patients with positional mild OSA after follow-up, the apnea/hypopnea index (AHI) increased (9.1 ± 3.3/h vs. 22.0 ± 13.2/h, p = 0.000), as did the morning systolic BP (126.4 ± 13.3 mm Hg vs. 130.4 ± 15.9 mm Hg, p = 0.011), and the sympathetic activity (49.4 ± 12.3% vs. 55.3 ± 13.1%, p = 0.000), while the parasympathetic activity decreased (50.6 ± 12.3% vs. 44.7 ± 13.1%, p = 0.000). The body mass index changes were the most important factor associated with AHI changes among patients with positional mild OSA (Beta = 0.259, adjust R2 = 0.056, p = 0.016, 95% confidence interval 0.425 and 3.990). The positional dependency disappeared over time in 66.3% of patients with positional mild OSA while 69.2% of patients with nonpositional mild OSA retained nonpositional. Conclusions: In patients with positional mild OSA, disease severity, BP, and ANS regulation worse over time. Increased weight was the best predictor for its progression and the loss of positional dependency. Better treatments addressing weight control and consistent follow-up are needed for positional mild OSA.
Trends in Literature on Cerebral Bypass Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Grüter Basil E. , Tosic Lazar , Voglis Stefanos , Vasella Flavio , Mutschler Valentino , Bichsel Oliver , Scherrer Natalie , Regli Luca , Esposito Giuseppe
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Ever since the beginning of cerebral bypass surgery, the role of the bypass has been debated and indications have changed over the last 5 decades. This systematic literature research analysed all clinical studies on cerebral bypass that have been published from January 1959 to January 2020 for their year of publication, country of origin, citation index, role of and indication for bypass, bypass technique, revascularized territory, flow capacity, and title (for word cloud analysis per decade). Methods: A systematic literature research was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and SCOPUS databases. All studies that have been published until January 1, 2020, were included. Results: Of 6,013 identified studies, 2,585 were included in the analysis. Of these, n = 1,734 (67%) studies addressed flow-augmentation bypass and n = 701 (27%) addressed flow-preservation bypass. The most common indication reported for flow augmentation is moyamoya (n = 877, 51%), followed by atherosclerotic steno-occlusive disease (n = 753, 43%). For flow preservation, the most common indication is studies reporting on cerebral aneurysm surgery (n = 659, 94%). The increasing popularity of reporting on these bypass operations almost came to an end with the FDA approval of flow diverters for aneurysm treatment in 2011. Japan is the country with the most bypass studies (cumulatively published 933 articles), followed by the USA (630 articles) and China (232 articles). Discussion/Conclusion: Clinical studies on cerebral bypass surgery have become increasingly popular in the past decades. Since the introduction of moyamoya as a distinct pathologic entity, Asian countries in particular have a very active community regarding this disease, with an increasing number of articles published every year. Studies on bypass for chronic steno-occlusive disease peaked in the 1980s but have remained the main focus of bypass research, particularly in many European departments. The number of reports published on these bypass operations significantly decreased after the FDA approval of flow diverters for aneurysm treatment in 2011.
Oral Contraceptive Intake and Iodine Status in Young Women
Authors: Deischinger Carola , Deischinger Doris , Gessl Irina , Krebs Michael , Marculescu Rodrig , Kautzky-Willer Alexandra , Kosi-Trebotic Lana
Published: July 2021

Objective: Similar to pregnant women, women taking an oral contraceptive (OC) might have elevated iodine requirements due to the altered hormonal state. This is the first study aimed at investigating the prevalence of iodine deficiency and possible influences of OC intake on urine creatinine and iodine levels in young women. Methods: One hundred fifty-five women between the age of 18 and 35 years (62 taking an OC and 93 controls) participated in a cross-sectional pilot study at the Medical University of Vienna, which included a 1-spot urine sample and a questionnaire on OC intake as well as a food questionnaire. Results: The median urinary iodine concentration (UIC) in this study was 68 μg/L (41, 111 μg/L) suggesting an inadequate iodine status in the women according to the WHO guidelines. Median UIC (OC: 89 μg/L, IQR 55–120; control: 59 μg/L, IQR 39–91, p = 0.010) and urine creatinine (OC: median = 99.0 μg/L, IQR 74.9–175.5; control: 77.0 μg/L, IQR 49.6–147.2, p = 0.030) levels were significantly higher in OC women than in the control group. UIC corrected for urine creatinine was comparable between both groups. Conclusion: With similar creatinine-corrected UICs in both groups, OC intake might not have a significant impact on iodine status. However, the low median UIC in a vulnerable group of young women potentially conceiving in the following years points at the necessity of optimizing the iodine intake in the Austrian population and reiterates the insufficiency of the current iodine supplementation measures.
Artificial Intelligence in Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Authors: Tokat Meltem , van Tilburg Laurelle , Koch Arjun D. , Spaander Manon C.W.
Published: July 2021

Background: Over the past decade, several artificial intelligence (AI) systems are developed to assist in endoscopic assessment of (pre-)cancerous lesions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In this review, we aimed to provide an overview of the possible indications of AI technology in upper GI endoscopy and hypothesize about potential challenges for its use in clinical practice. Summary: Application of AI in upper GI endoscopy has been investigated for several indications: (1) detection, characterization, and delineation of esophageal and gastric cancer (GC) and their premalignant conditions; (2) prediction of tumor invasion; and (3) detection of Helicobacter pylori. AI systems show promising results with an accuracy of up to 99% for the detection of superficial and advanced upper GI cancers. AI outperformed trainee and experienced endoscopists for the detection of esophageal lesions and atrophic gastritis. For GC, AI outperformed mid-level and trainee endoscopists but not expert endoscopists. Key Messages: Application of artificial intelligence (AI) in upper gastrointestinal endoscopy may improve early diagnosis of esophageal and gastric cancer and may enable endoscopists to better identify patients eligible for endoscopic resection. The benefit of AI on the quality of upper endoscopy still needs to be demonstrated, while prospective trials are needed to confirm accuracy and feasibility during real-time daily endoscopy.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children with Obesity: Narrative Review and Research Gaps
Authors: Furthner Dieter , Weghuber Daniel , Dalus Christopher , Lukas Andreas , Stundner-Ladenhauf Hannah N. , Mangge Harald , Pixner Thomas
Published: July 2021

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the leading hepatic disease in children, ranging from steatosis to steatohepatitis and fibrosis. Age, sex, hormonal levels, pubertal stages, genetic risk- and epigenetic factors are among the many influencing factors. Appearing predominantly in children with obesity, but not exclusively, it is the liver’s manifestation of the metabolic syndrome but can also exist as an isolated entity. Summary: Pediatric NAFLD differs from the adult phenotype. This narrative review on NAFLD in children with obesity provides an overview of the current knowledge on risk factors, screening, and diagnostic methods, as well state-of-the-art treatment. The recent discussion on the proposition of a new nomenclature – Metabolic [Dysfunction-] Associated Liver Disease – is featured, and current gaps of knowledge are discussed. Key Messages: Currently, there is no international consensus on screening and monitoring of pediatric NAFLD. With lifestyle interventions being the cornerstone of treatment, no registered pharmacological treatment for pediatric NAFLD is available. Development and validation of additional noninvasive biomarkers, scores and imaging tools suitable to subcategorize, screen and monitor pediatric patients are necessary. With a variety of upcoming and promising agents, clear recommendations for pediatric nonalcoholic steatohepatitis trials are urgently needed.
Sustained Inflation During Chest Compression: A New Technique of Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation That Improves Recovery and Survival in a Pediatric Porcine Model
Authors: Schmölzer Georg M. , Patel Siddhi D. , Monacelli Sveva , Kim Seung Yeon , Shim Gyu‐Hong , Lee Tze‐Fun , O'Reilly Megan , Cheung Po‐Yin
Published: July 2021

Background

Chest compression (CC) during sustained inflations (CC+SI) compared with CC with asynchronized ventilation (CCaV) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in asphyxiated pediatric piglets will reduce time to return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).

Methods and Results

Piglets (20–23 days of age, weighing 6.2–10.2 kg) were anesthetized, intubated, instrumented, and exposed to asphyxia. Cardiac arrest was defined as mean arterial blood pressure <25 mm Hg with bradycardia. After cardiac arrest, piglets were randomized to CC+SI (n=12) or CCaV (n=12) or sham (n=8). Sham‐operated animals had no asphyxia. Heart rate, arterial blood pressure, carotid blood flow, cerebral oxygenation, and respiratory parameters were continuously recorded. There were no differences in baseline parameters or the duration and degree of asphyxiation. Median (interquartile range) Time to ROSC was 248 (41–346) seconds compared with 720 (167–720) seconds in the CC+SI group and CCaV group, respectively (
P
=0.0292). There was a 100% higher rate of ROSC in the CC+SI group versus CCaV group, with 10 (83%) versus 5 (42%) achieving ROSC (
P
=0.089), respectively. Piglets in the CC+SI and CCaV groups received intravenous epinephrine boluses to achieve ROSC (8/12 versus 10/12
P
=0.639). There was a significantly higher minute ventilation in the CC+SI group, which was secondary to a 5‐fold increase in the number of inflations per minute and a 1.5‐fold increase in tidal volume.

Conclusions

CC+SI reduced time to ROSC and improved survival compared with using CCaV. CC+SI allowed passive ventilation of the lung while providing chest compressions. This technique warrants further studies to examine the potential to improve outcomes in pediatric patients with cardiac arrest.

Registration

URL:
https://www.preclinicaltrials.eu
; Unique identifier: PCTE0000152.
The Liturgical Communion of the Yaḥad with the Angels
Authors: Jost Michael R.
Published: July 2021

Since the discoveries of the first Dead Sea Scrolls, the motif of a communion with the angels has been repeatedly emphasized and discussed as a characteristic of the self-understanding of the community behind these writings. Of particular interest in this discussion are the Songs of the Sabbath Sacrifice (4Q400–407; 11Q17; and Mas1k ShirShabb). However, the origin of the so-called Angelic Liturgy is still an unresolved question in scholarship. In this article we will try to figure out the relationship of the Songs of the Sabbath Sacrifice to the sectarian literature by analyzing the communion with the angels described therein. I will demonstrate that this composition has the most explicit connections to the liturgical communion with the angels that is uniquely found in undisputed sectarian texts. The Angelic Liturgy is then not so much the source, but much more an example of the liturgical development inside the yaḥad.
Parental reactions to a dying marmoset infant: conditional investment by the mother, but not the father
Authors: Brügger Rahel K. , Burkart Judith M.
Published: July 2021

The reproductive costs of cooperatively breeding callitrichid mothers are remarkable, and they have to rely on fathers and other group members to raise their offspring. Consequently, maternal responsiveness to and investment in infants tends to be conditional, and especially sensitive to infant cues and signals of vigour. Since fathers do not bear the same excessive reproductive costs, their threshold to invest in a dying immature may be lower than in mothers. We present an anecdotal report of reactions of a first-time breeding pair of captive common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) to their dying infant. We found a male bias in all interactions with the dying infant that did not show typical cues of infant vigour. These results show that the dying infant elicited more investment by the father than the mother. Because of this conditional maternal investment, infants of cooperatively breeding primates may be under selection to advertise their viability, in particular to their mothers.
Human Flourishing and a Theology of Poverty Alleviation
Authors: Reize Nikayla , Stovell Beth , Toffelmire Colin
Published: July 2021

The Christian Scriptures present an idealized vision for human flourishing that includes material and economic justice, as well as relational, spiritual wholeness. This binds Christians to a non-negotiable responsibility to work to prevent and alleviate poverty as an act of participation in God’s redemption of creation. Key to this work is an appropriate and accurate understanding of human flourishing (and its corollary, human poverty) as multi-dimensional. Consequently, any Christian theology that seeks to address the prevention and alleviation of poverty must also explore the necessary issues from a multi-dimensional perspective. While there are diverse ways in which Christians can participate in this divine work, a Christian vision for the alleviation and elimination of poverty must have a focus on long-term structural solutions to injustice, and the importance of community and relationship. This article gives particular attention to a Canadian context. (150 words only)
God of the Small: Engaging Public Theology in Small Business
Authors: Wijaya Yahya
Published: July 2021

Mainstream theological discourses on economic issues tend to concentrate on the disparity between the poor and the powerful. The focus of this writing is on a segment of society often overlooked in such a contrasting approach, namely those who can be identified neither as the poor nor the powerful. Picking up on small business to represent the ‘in-between,’ this article suggests a theological reflection concerning the works of God with those who should be called ‘the small’. It starts with describing the contemporary situation faced by small business, particularly in Asia. The situation is analyzed using the business ethics’ stakeholder approach. The theological response follows the method of a public theology by interacting Christian resources with the situation of small business in relation to their stakeholders. The result is a new construction of public theology starting with the notion of God’s preference for the small.
The Material World of Early Modern Ottoman Women: Ornaments, Robes and Domestic Furnishings in Istanbul and Bursa
Authors: Faroqhi Suraiya
Published: July 2021

The present article investigates the jewelry and domestic furnishings owned by wealthy women who died in Bursa during the early 1730s, combining the data derived from the estate inventories of the decedents with imagery, both Ottoman and non-Ottoman, dating to the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. This tentative linkage between the written and the visual has made it possible to ‘zoom in’ on the manner in which well-to-do females of eighteenth-century Bursa decorated their homes, and speculate about the considerations that induced them to use the most valuable textiles largely for home furnishings as opposed to garments.
The Rise of the Köprülü Household: The Transformation of Patronage in the Ottoman Empire in the Seventeenth Century
Authors: Bekar Cumhur
Published: July 2021

This article documents the formation of a powerful political network stretching from the central bureaucracy to the provinces under the aegis of the Köprülü household, the most influential vizierial household in the seventeenth-century Ottoman Empire. Starting with the appointment of Köprülü Mehmed Pasha as a grand vizier in 1656, the members of the Köprülü household occupied in the years that followed the most important positions in the Ottoman administrative and military system. Thanks to their long-lasting incumbency, the Köprülü grand viziers managed to establish the most efficient political network in the Ottoman state during the seventeenth century. By exploring the roles of the kethüdas, ağas and scribes in the Köprülü household and by examining those of its clients and family members in the military and administrative system, this article sheds light on the transformation of the recruitment system and patronage patterns in the Ottoman Empire during the seventeenth century.
“Yo’ Kin Cut All Kinda Tricks”: Crossroad Ordeals, Peavine Drills, and Other Technologies of the Self in African-American Vernacular Esotericism
Authors: Wehmeyer Stephen C.
Published: July 2021

The vernacular magical, divinatory, and healing practices associated with the Afro-American Gulf South, alternately called “Hoodoo” or “Conjure,” offer a window into an intriguing world of “everyday esoterica.” Practitioners envision a world of competing human desires, which move and are moved by an array of malign and benign spiritual forces. They cope with this world with a pharmacopeia of symbolically powerful physical substances, but also through works of bodily discipline, prayer, meditation, and other practices aimed at the cultivation of will, self-awareness, and self-regard. These latter tools and techniques comport closely with Michel Foucault’s concept of technologies of the self. Exploring Hoodoo ritual through Foucault’s lens offers opportunities to re-imagine American Hoodoo as an esoteric system that enables practitioners to manipulate and transform themselves as well as their circumstances. This examination serves to increase our appreciation for the sophistication of these traditions, while simultaneously enlarging and enriching Foucault’s paradigm – offering new ways to consider the techniques by which one might come to know and understand oneself. This inquiry addresses a lacuna in the scholarship of Hoodoo and Conjure and also situates these traditions more firmly (and accurately) within the wider corpus of Gnostic Studies and Western Esotericism.
A new combination in the genus Louisiella (Poaceae: Paniceae)
Authors: LANDGE SHAHID NAWAZ , SHINDE RAJENDRA D.
Published: July 2021

The critical study of Panicum paludosum implied that its taxonomic position within the genus Panicum is apparently discordant for its linear hilum, spongy culms, linear spikelets, barren lower floret, and upper floret smooth. These attributes best conform the circumscription of the ditypic genus Louisiella. Thus, it has been transferred into the same and a key to distinguish all the congeners in the world is provided. The close affinities and differences of this species with a close one, Panicum repense are also briefly discussed. The illustration of the spikelet and the caryopsis are included to support its new placement in Louisiella. A detailed comparison in all the three species of Louisiella is given to facilitate the proper identification.
One new combination in the genus Hydrangea (Hydrangeaceae)
Authors: DESHMUKH UMAKANT BHOOPATI , SHENDE MUKUND BAPURAO
Published: July 2021

The recent study on the molecular phylogenetics of the family Hydrangeaceae (Samain et al.,2010; Granados Mendoza et al., 2013; De Smet et al. 2015) revealed that eight genera Decumaria Linnaeus (1753: 397), Dichroa Loureiro (1790: 301), Broussaisia Gaudichaud (1830: 479), Schizophragma Siebold & Zuccarini (1838: 58), Platycrater Siebold & Zuccarini (1838: 62), Cardiandra Siebold & Zuccarini (1839: 119), Pileostegia Hook.f. & Thomson (1857: 57) and Deinanthe Maximowicz (1867: 2) are phylogenetically nested within Hydrangea Linnaeus (1753: 397), rendering the latter highly polyphyletic.
Four new species of Wahnesia Förster, 1900 from the D’Entrecasteaux, Louisiade and Woodlark island groups, Papua New Guinea (Odonata: Argiolestidae)
Authors: POLHEMUS DAN A. , KALKMAN VINCENT J.
Published: July 2021

The species of the damselfly genus Wahnesia Förster, 1900 occurring in the D’Entrecasteaux Islands, Louisiade Archipelago, and on Woodlark Island are reviewed, and four new species are described: W. muyuw from Woodlark Island, W. misima from Misima Island, W. tagula from Tagula (Sudest) Island, and W. rossel from Rossel Island, these latter three islands all lying in the Louisiade Archipelago. In addition, new information is presented on the identification and distribution of the two previously described species from the D’Entrecasteaux islands: W. annulipes (Lieftinck, 1956) from Goodenough, Fergusson, and Normanby islands, and W. armeniaca (Lieftinck, 1956) from Goodenough and Fergusson islands. Illustrations are provided for the male abdominal terminalia and genital ligula of the four new species, as well as the wings and a color photograph of a live male of W. muyuw, and the ligula of W. armeniaca, accompanied by updated distribution maps for all species treated.
Stolephorus grandis, a new anchovy (Teleostei: Clupeiformes: Engraulidae) from New Guinea and Australia
Authors: HATA HARUTAKA , MOTOMURA HIROYUKI
Published: July 2021

The new anchovy Stolephorus grandis n. sp., described on the basis of 10 specimens collected from Papua, Indonesia, and Australia, closely resembles Stolephorus mercurius Hata, Lavoué & Motomura, 2021, Stolephorus multibranchus Wongratana, 1987, and Stolephorus rex Jordan & Seale, 1926, all having double pigmented lines on the dorsum from the occiput to the dorsal-fin origin, a long maxilla (posterior tip just reaching or slightly beyond the posterior margin of preopercle), and lacking a predorsal scute. However, the new species clearly differs from the others in having fewer gill rakers (35–39 total gill rakers on the first gill arch in S. grandis vs. > 38 in the other species), a greater number of vertebrae (total vertebrae 42–43 vs. fewer than 41), longer caudal peduncle (21.9–23.7% SL vs. < 20.8%), and the depressed pelvic fin not reaching posteriorly to vertical through the dorsal fin-origin (vs. reaching beyond level of dorsal-fin origin).
Three new species of the genus Hexarhopalus Fairmaire, 1891 (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae: Cnodalonini) from China
Authors: JIANG RI-XIN , LI ZE-CHUAN , JI QUAN-YU , ENGEL MICHAEL S. , WANG SHUO
Published: July 2021

Three new species of the genus Hexarhopalus Fairmaire, 1891 are described and figured from China: Hexarhopalus (Hexarhopalus) yunnanensis sp. nov. from Yunnan, Hexarhopalus (Hexarhopalus) zhuxiangi sp. nov. from Guangxi, and Hexarhopalus (Leprocaulus) nanlingensis sp. nov. from Guangdong. A revised key is provided to the species of Hexarhopalus from China.
The Piperidine-H2O-CO2 System for Sequestering Highly Concentrated CO2
Authors: Ho Choi Jeong , Tak Jang Jong , Young Park Chan , Hee Yun Soung , Hee Jo Won , Lee Jung-Hyun , Yoon Yeo Il
Published: July 2021

The post-combustion capture (PCC) process using amines is one of the most representative technologies for separating CO2 from huge CO2 emisions. However, the achievement of reasonable costs for capturing CO2 requires continuous studies on absorbent development,
process optimization, and energy saving. Among these, the absorbent development is the most essential factor in reducing the operating cost and equipment cost of the PCC process. In this study, piperidine (PD) solution is used as an alternative absorbent to overcome the disadvantage of commercial
monoethanolamine (MEA) solution. The absorption rate, absorption capacity and regeneration energy of PD solution were measured to confirm its performance as an alternative absorbent. It was found that PD solution shows key advantages, compared with MEA solution. First, the overall mass transfer
of CO2 in PD solution was 2.69 times faster than in MEA solution at 313 K. Second, PD solution was capable of absorbing 1.5 times more of CO2 than MEA solution. Third, the reboiler heat duty of PD solution showed 1.16 times better energy-efficiency than that of MEA because
the sensible heat of PD was 75.8 kJ·mol−1 lower than that of MEA. From these results, PD solution is deemed to be a good alternative absorbent to replace MEA solution.