bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Never Repeat the Same Trick Twice—Unless it is Cognitively Impenetrable
Authors: Ekroll Vebjørn , De Bruyckere Evy , Vanwezemael Lotte , Wagemans Johan
Published: December 2018

In their quest for creating magical experiences, magicians rely on a host of psychological factors. Here, we compare tricks based on attentional misdirection with tricks based on amodal completion. Based on the notion that amodal completion is a cognitively impenetrable perceptual phenomenon, we predicted that the tricks based on this perceptual effect should—to a much larger extent than tricks based on attentional misdirection—retain their deceptive power when the tricks are repeated. The results of an experiment with four magic tricks involving attentional misdirection and four magic tricks based on amodal completion lend strong support to this prediction. Asking subjects to try to figure out the secret behind these tricks after one, two, or three presentations of each trick, we found that the observed solution rates for tricks based on attentional misdirection increased much more with repeated viewing than those for tricks based on amodal completion, which remained very low throughout. Thus, the results lend further support to the idea that amodal completion is based on cognitively impenetrable perceptual mechanisms.
Dysregulation of miR-605-5p/STAT2 axis predicts an unfavorable survival in patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Teng Yang , Tang Rong , Jiang Shao-Jie
Published: December 2018

Our present study aimed to reveal the clinical significance of miR-605-5p/STAT2 axis in patients with gastric cancer (GC). The association of STAT2 or miR-605-5p expression with the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis in patients with GC was analyzed using the tissue microarray and TCGA RNA-seq data. Pearson correlation analysis was used to evaluate the correlation of STAT2 with miRNAs expression in GC tissues. Cox proportional hazard regression model was conducted to assess whether STAT2 or miR-605-5p expressions was an independent prognostic factor in patients with GC. Consequently, we found that STAT2 expression levels were dramatically elevated in GC tissues and acted as an independent prognostic factor of poor survival in patients with GC. The upregulation of STAT2 was attributable to the dysregulation of miR-605-5p rather than its genetic and epigenetic modulation. MiR-605-5p indicated a negative correlation with STAT2 expression and was an independent prognostic factor of poor survival in patients with GC. In conclusion, dysregulation of miR-605-5p/STAT2 axis predicted a poor survival in patients with GC.
Effect of intra-abdominal infection on immunological function and HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway in patients with severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Qin Cuihong , Li Ya , Song Ruifeng , Xu Feng
Published: December 2018

The aim of this article is to investigate the effects of intra-abdominal infection on immunological function and high-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1)/toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway in patients with severe acute pancreatitis (SAP). Clinical data of SAP patients were retrospectively analyzed. SAP patients were divided into intra-abdominal infection group (103 SAP patients) and control group (115 SAP patients without intra-abdominal infection). All patients were evaluated with the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assays were used to detect the levels of serum endotoxin, d-lactate, diamine oxidase, IgG, IgM, IgA, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and HMGB1. Western blotting was performed to detect the levels of TLR4 and NF-κB in peripheral blood lymphocytes. Compared with control group, the APACHE II score (12.60 ± 3.81 vs 9.55 ± 3.02) and serum endotoxin (0.33 ± 0.15 vs 0.19 ± 0.09 EU/mL), d-lactate (4.33 ± 0.16 vs 4.02 ± 0.12 mg/L), and diamine oxidase (3.88 ± 0.16 vs 3.65 ± 0.13 EU/mL) levels in intra-abdominal infection group were increased significantly (all P < 0.001); serum IgG (7.33 ± 0.82 vs 9.05 ± 0.90 g/L), IgM (1.04 ± 0.49 vs 1.18 ± 0.53 g/L), and IgA (1.65 ± 0.79 vs 1.96 ± 0.88 g/L) levels in intra-abdominal infection group were decreased significantly, while serum IL-1β (118.55 ± 17.04 vs 83.61 ± 12.28 ng/L), IL-6 (12.05 ± 7.69 vs 9.89 ± 6.77 ng/L), TNF-α (25.61 ± 8.76 vs 19.20 ± 8.33 ng/L), and HMGB1 (48.91 ± 20.63 vs 32.74 ± 17.05 μg/L) levels were increased significantly (all P < 0.05); TLR4 and NF-κB in intra-abdominal infection group were increased significantly (both P < 0.001). The intra-abdominal infection can lead to intestinal barrier dysfunction, aggravated inflammatory response, and immune dysfunction in SAP patients, which may be related to the activation of HMGB1/TLR4/NF-κB pathway caused by intra-abdominal infection.
The Circle-Fit Method Helps Make Reliable Cortical Thickness Measurements Regardless of Humeral Length
Authors: Shelton Trevor J. , Steele Amy E. , Saiz Augustine M. , Bachus Kent N. , Skedros John G.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Although proximal humerus strength/quality can be assessed using cortical thickness measurements (eg, cortical index), there is no agreement where to make them. Tingart and coworkers used measurements where the proximal endosteum becomes parallel, while Mather and coworkers used measurements where the periosteum becomes parallel. The new circle-fit method (CFM) makes 2 metaphyseal (M1-M2) and 6 diaphyseal (D1-D6) measurements referenced from humeral head diameter (HHD). However, it is unknown whether these locations correlate to humeral length (HL). Accordingly, we asked: (1) Does HHD, Tingart distance, and Mather distance correlate with HL? (2) What is the location of HHD, Tingart distance, and Mather distance as a percentage of HL? and (3) Which CFM D1-D6 locations correlate with Tingart and Mather distances?

Materials and Methods:

Measurements made on cortical thickness (CT) scout views of 19 humeri (ages: 16-73 years) included HHD, distances from the superior aspect of the humerus to proximal Tingart and Mather locations, and HL.

Results:

Intraclass correlation was excellent for CFM-HHD, poor for Tingart, and moderate for Mather. The CFM-HHD had a stronger correlation to HL than Tingart and Mather. Mean HHD was 15.5% (0.9%) of HL while Tingart was 27.0% (4.1%) and Mather was 23.2% (3.8%). Tingart distance corresponded to D2/D3 CFM locations while the Mather distance was similar to D1/D2.

Discussion:

The CFM reliably correlates with HL and provides a stronger correlation and less variance between specimens than the Tingart or Mather Methods.

Conclusions:

Because the CFM produces reliable percent of HL locations, it should be used to define locations for obtaining biomechanically relevant CT measurements such as cortical index. Stronger correlations of these CFM-based measurements with proximal humerus strength will be important for developing advanced algorithms for fracture treatment.
Outcomes for Elderly Patients With Atypical Femoral Fractures Compared to Typical Femoral Fractures for Length of Stay, Discharge Destination, and 30-Day Mortality Rate
Authors: Davenport Dominic , Duncan James , Duncan Robert , Dick Alastair , Bansal Mohit , Edwards Max R.
Published: December 2018

Introduction:

Despite increasing recognition of atypical femoral fractures (AFFs), there’s conflicting evidence about incidence, aetiology, and short-term outcomes of these injuries. This study reports the incidence of AFFs at our center and compares the early postoperative outcomes against typical femoral fractures (TFFs).

Methods:

A retrospective observational cohort study of patients presenting to our trauma unit between November 2015 and July 2016 was undertaken. Inclusion criteria required radiologically confirmed proximal femoral fracture, which was then categorized as AFF or TFF. Primary outcome measures included length of stay, discharge destination, and 30-day mortality.

Results:

Two hundred thirty-nine patients presented to our trauma unit over 9 months with either a fractured neck of femur or proximal femoral fracture. A total of 122 were identified as pertrochanteric, subtrochanteric, or proximal femoral shaft fractures of which 25 (20.5%) displayed atypical radiographic features consistent with AFF. The 2 groups were similar for average age (TFF 85.3 years vs AFF 85.0 years), gender (19% vs 16% male gender), American Society of Anaesthesiology grade (3.0 vs 3.0), cognitive score (abbreviated mental test score = 7.03 vs 7.08), and preinjury place of residence (88.9% vs 92.0% lived in own home). Typical fractures were fixed with either dynamic hip screw or intramedullary nailing, all atypical fractures were fixed with intramedullary nailing. There was no statistical difference between the 2 groups for length of stay (12.8 days vs 14.3 days; P > .05), discharge to preinjury residence (45.1% vs 36%; P > .05), or 30-day mortality (8.1% vs 12%; P > .05).

Discussion:

In our predominantly geriatric population atypical radiographic features were observed in around 10% of patients presenting with proximal femoral fractures or fractured neck of femur. Previous studies have reported poor outcomes for pain, mobility, and length of stay after AFF. However, we observed no difference in short-term outcome measures when compared to patients with typical proximal femoral fracture patterns at our trauma unit.

Conclusion:

With modern principles of trauma care outcomes achieved following AFFs may be equivalent to typical femoral fractures in the geriatric population.
Guselkumab for the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis During Induction Phase: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cameron C. , Druchok C. , Hutton B. , McElligott S. , Nair S. , Schubert A. , Situ A. , Varu A. , Villacorta R.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Guselkumab is an interleukin-23 inhibitor indicated for treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.

Objective:

The objective was to determine the relative efficacy and safety of guselkumab compared to other biologics.

Methods:

A systematic review was performed to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Bayesian network meta-analyses (NMAs) were conducted using meta-regression analyses that adjusted for cross-trial differences and risk differences. The primary outcome was Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 90 response. Other efficacy and safety outcomes were considered. Several meta-regressions were performed to account for variations in patient and study characteristics: baseline risk adjustment (ie, control group response), prior biologic use, duration of psoriasis, weight, age, race, and baseline PASI/dermatology life quality index scores. The best-fitting model using predefined criteria was selected.

Results:

Forty-five RCTs were identified. Patient and study characteristics differed between RCTs as reflected in variations in control group response. Both the baseline risk-adjusted NMA and the risk-difference NMA fit the data best and suggested guselkumab has one of the highest PASI 90 responses. Pairwise comparisons from the baseline risk-adjusted PASI 90 NMA suggested guselkumab has comparable efficacy with ixekizumab (relative risk [RR]: 0.999, 95% credible intervals [CrIs]: 0.89-1.13) and brodalumab (RR: 1.04, 95% CrIs: 0.91-1.17) and superior efficacy versus all other treatments in the network (RR range, 1.20 to 43.22). Guselkumab was superior or comparable to other therapies for other efficacy outcomes and had a more favorable safety profile than most.

Conclusions:

Guselkumab has one of the highest PASI 90 responses among psoriasis treatments; similar findings were observed for other efficacy outcomes. Guselkumab has a favorable benefit–risk balance compared to moderate-to-severe psoriasis therapies.
Delleman–Oorthuys syndrome (oculocerebrocutaneous syndrome) in a Nigerian child: a case report
Authors: Badejo Oluwakemi A. , Fasina Oluyemi , Balogun James A. , Ogunbiyi John O. , Shokunbi Matthew T.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Delleman–Oorthuys syndrome, also known as oculocerebrocutaneous syndrome, is a rare congenital anomaly with ocular, cerebral and cutaneous manifestations. So far, only 40 cases have been described.

Clinical case:

A 3-year-old female Nigerian child with no identifiable left eyeball, multiple left-sided facial skin defects and delayed developmental milestones but otherwise uneventful medical and family history was evaluated at the Ophthalmology and Paediatric Neurosurgery in Ibadan, Nigeria. Besides the mentioned defects that were present since birth, brain imaging revealed several brain abnormalities including intracranial cysts. Global hyperreflexia and bilateral flexor plantar response were observed upon clinical examination. Left micro-ophthalmia and orbital mass were detected. A histological assessment of the orbital mass revealed it to be rudimentary ocular tissue. The diagnosis of Delleman–Oorthuys syndrome was made based on the clinico-radiological features. The patient underwent a left-sided posterior fossa cystoperitoneal shunt. The left orbital mass was enuclated and the patient is currently awaiting left eyelid reconstruction and an orbital implant and repair of the left alar nasi cleft.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, this is the first published report of Delleman–Oorthuys syndrome in a female child of West African descent. Given the variable manifestations of Delleman–Oorthuys syndrome, and overlap with other syndromes, the Delleman–Oorthuys syndrome may be underreported. Neuroimaging of patients with cutaneous tags, orbital cysts and micro-ophthalmia could reveal more cases.
A mechanism for hereditary angioedema with normal C1 inhibitor: an inhibitory regulatory role for the factor XII heavy chain
Authors: Ivanov Ivan , Matafonov Anton , Sun Mao-fu , Mohammed Bassem M. , Cheng Qiufang , Dickeson S. Kent , Kundu Suman , Verhamme Ingrid M. , Gruber Andras , McCrae Keith , Gailani David
Published: December 2018

The plasma proteins factor XII (FXII) and prekallikrein (PK) undergo reciprocal activation to the proteases FXIIa and kallikrein by a process that is enhanced by surfaces (contact activation) and regulated by the serpin C1 inhibitor. Kallikrein cleaves high-molecular-weight kininogen (HK), releasing the vasoactive peptide bradykinin. Patients with hereditary angioedema (HAE) experience episodes of soft tissue swelling as a consequence of unregulated kallikrein activity or increased prekallikrein activation. Although most HAE cases are caused by reduced plasma C1-inhibitor activity, HAE has been linked to lysine/arginine substitutions for Thr309 in FXII (FXII-Lys/Arg309). Here, we show that FXII-Lys/Arg309 is susceptible to cleavage after residue 309 by coagulation proteases (thrombin and FXIa), resulting in generation of a truncated form of FXII (δFXII). The catalytic efficiency of δFXII activation by kallikrein is 15-fold greater than for full-length FXII. The enhanced rate of reciprocal activation of PK and δFXII in human plasma and in mice appears to overwhelm the normal inhibitory function of C1 inhibitor, leading to increased HK cleavage. In mice given human FXII-Lys/Arg309, induction of thrombin generation by infusion of tissue factor results in enhanced HK cleavage as a consequence of δFXII formation. The effects of δFXII in vitro and in vivo are reproduced when wild-type FXII is bound by an antibody to the FXII heavy chain (HC; 15H8). The results contribute to our understanding of the predisposition of patients carrying FXII-Lys/Arg309 to angioedema after trauma, and reveal a regulatory function for the FXII HC that normally limits PK activation in plasma.
Loss-of-function mutations in PTPRJ cause a new form of inherited thrombocytopenia
Authors: Marconi Caterina , Di Buduo Christian A. , LeVine Kellie , Barozzi Serena , Faleschini Michela , Bozzi Valeria , Palombo Flavia , McKinstry Spencer , Lassandro Giuseppe , Giordano Paola , Noris Patrizia , Balduini Carlo L. , Savoia Anna , Balduini Alessandra , Pippucci Tommaso , Seri Marco , Katsanis Nicholas , Pecci Alessandro
Published: December 2018

Inherited thrombocytopenias (ITs) are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by low platelet count that may result in bleeding tendency. Despite progress being made in defining the genetic causes of ITs, nearly 50% of patients with familial thrombocytopenia are affected with forms of unknown origin. Here, through exome sequencing of 2 siblings with autosomal-recessive thrombocytopenia, we identified biallelic loss-of-function variants in PTPRJ. This gene encodes for a receptor-like PTP, PTPRJ (or CD148), which is expressed abundantly in platelets and megakaryocytes. Consistent with the predicted effects of the variants, both probands have an almost complete loss of PTPRJ at the messenger RNA and protein levels. To investigate the pathogenic role of PTPRJ deficiency in hematopoiesis in vivo, we carried out CRISPR/Cas9-mediated ablation of ptprja (the ortholog of human PTPRJ) in zebrafish, which induced a significantly decreased number of CD41+ thrombocytes in vivo. Moreover, megakaryocytes of our patients showed impaired maturation and profound defects in SDF1-driven migration and formation of proplatelets in vitro. Silencing of PTPRJ in a human megakaryocytic cell line reproduced the functional defects observed in patients’ megakaryocytes. The disorder caused by PTPRJ mutations presented as a nonsyndromic thrombocytopenia characterized by spontaneous bleeding, small-sized platelets, and impaired platelet responses to the GPVI agonists collagen and convulxin. These platelet functional defects could be attributed to reduced activation of Src family kinases. Taken together, our data identify a new form of IT and highlight a hitherto unknown fundamental role for PTPRJ in platelet biogenesis.
Toward personalized treatment in multiple myeloma based on molecular characteristics
Authors: Pawlyn Charlotte , Davies Faith E.
Published: December 2018

To date, the choice of therapy for an individual multiple myeloma patient has been based on clinical factors such as age and comorbidities. The widespread evolution, validation, and clinical utilization of molecular technologies, such as fluorescence in situ hybridization and next-generation sequencing has enabled the identification of a number of prognostic and predictive biomarkers for progression-free survival, overall survival, and treatment response. In this review, we argue that in order to continue to improve myeloma patient outcomes incorporating such biomarkers into the routine diagnostic workup of patients will allow for the use of personalized, biologically based treatments.
Exosomal regulation of lymphocyte homing to the gut
Authors: Park Eun Jeong , Prajuabjinda Onmanee , Soe Zay Yar , Darkwah Samuel , Appiah Michael G. , Kawamoto Eiji , Momose Fumiyasu , Shiku Hiroshi , Shimaoka Motomu
Published: December 2018

Exosomes secreted from T cells have been shown to affect dendritic cells, cancer cells, and other T cells. However, little is known about how T-cell exosomes (T exosomes) modulate endothelial cell functions in the context of tissue-specific homing. Here, we study the roles of T exosomes in the regulation of gut-specific T-cell homing. The gut-tropic T cells induced by retinoic acid secrete the exosomes that upregulate integrin α4β7 binding to the MAdCAM-1 expressed on high endothelial venules in the gut. T exosomes were preferentially distributed to the villi of the small intestine in an α4β7-dependent manner. Exosomes from gut-tropic T cells suppressed the expression of MAdCAM-1 in the small intestine, thereby inhibiting T-cell homing to the gut. Moreover, microRNA (miRNA) profiling analysis has shown that exosomes from gut-tropic T cells were enriched with miRNAs targeting NKX2.3, a transcription factor critical to MAdCAM-1 expression. Taken together, our study proposes that α4β7-expressing T exosomes distribute themselves to the small intestine and modify the expression of microenvironmental tissues such that any subsequent lymphocyte homing is precluded. This may represent a novel mechanism by which excessive lymphocyte homing to the intestinal tissues is downsized.
Nosocomial outbreak of multi-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 15A in a centre for chronic pulmonary diseases
Authors: Bastiaens Guido J. H. , Cremers Amelieke J. H. , Coolen Jordy P. M. , Nillesen Mayke T. , Boeree Martin J. , Hopman Joost , Wertheim Heiman F. L.
Published: December 2018

We report nosocomial transmission of multi-resistant serotype 15A Streptococcus pneumoniae (MRSP) that resulted in two lower respiratory tract infections in a centre for chronic pulmonary diseases. This outbreak highlights the potential for transmission of MRSP among vulnerable patients when laboratory turnaround time is long and patient compliance with transmission-based precautions is low.
A discontinuous Galerkin fast-sweeping eikonal solver for fast and accurate traveltime computation in 3D tilted anisotropic media
Authors: Le Bouteiller Philippe , Benjemaa Mondher , Métivier Ludovic , Virieux Jean
Published: December 2018

We tackle the challenging problem of efficient and accurate seismic traveltime computation in 3D anisotropic media by applying the fast-sweeping method to a discontinuous Galerkin (DG)-based eikonal solver. Using this method leads to a stable and highly accurate scheme, which is faster than finite-difference schemes for a given precision, and with a low computational cost compared to the standard Runge-Kutta DG formulation. The integral formulation of the DG method also makes it easy to handle seismic anisotropy and complex topographies. Several numerical tests on complex models, such as the 3D SEG advanced modeling model, are given as illustration, highlighting the efficiency and the accuracy of this new approach. In the near future, these results will be used together with accurate solvers for seismic amplitude and take-off angle computation to revisit asymptotic inversion (traveltime/slope tomography) and imaging approaches (quantitative migration involving amplitudes and angles).
Neoadjuvant Degarelix Versus Triptorelin in Premenopausal Patients Who Receive Letrozole for Locally Advanced Endocrine-Responsive Breast Cancer: A Randomized Phase II Trial
Authors: Dellapasqua Silvia , Gray Kathryn P. , Munzone Elisabetta , Rubino Daniela , Gianni Lorenzo , Johansson Harriet , Viale Giuseppe , Ribi Karin , Bernhard Jürg , Kammler Roswitha , Maibach Rudolf , Rabaglio-Poretti Manuela , Ruepp Barbara , Di Leo Angelo , Coates Alan S. , Gelber Richard D. , Regan Meredith M. , Goldhirsch Aron , Colleoni Marco ,   for the International Breast Cancer Study Group
Published: December 2018

PURPOSE

To evaluate endocrine activity in terms of ovarian function suppression (OFS) of degarelix (a gonadotropin-releasing hormone [GnRH] antagonist) versus triptorelin (a GnRH agonist) in premenopausal patients receiving letrozole as neoadjuvant endocrine therapy for breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Premenopausal women with stage cT2 to 4b, any N, M0; estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor greater than 50%; human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative breast cancer were randomly assigned to triptorelin 3.75 mg administered intramuscularly on day 1 of every cycle or degarelix 240 mg administered subcutaneously (SC) on day 1 of cycle 1 then 80 mg SC on day 1 of cycles 2 through 6, both with letrozole 2.5 mg/day for six 28-day cycles. Surgery was performed 2 to 3 weeks after the last injection. Serum was collected at baseline, after 24 and 72 hours, at 7 and 14 days, and then before injections on cycles 2 through 6. The primary end point was time to optimal OFS (time from the first injection to first assessment of centrally assessed estradiol level ≤ 2.72 pg/mL [≤ 10 pmol/L] during neoadjuvant therapy). The trial had 90% power to detect a difference using a log-rank test with a two-sided α of .05. Secondary end points included response, tolerability, and patient-reported endocrine symptoms.

RESULTS

Between February 2014 and January 2017, 51 patients were enrolled (n = 26 received triptorelin plus letrozole; n = 25 received degarelix plus letrozole). Time to optimal OFS was three times faster for patients assigned to degarelix and letrozole than to triptorelin and letrozole (median, 3 v 14 days; hazard ratio, 3.05; 95% CI, 1.65 to 5.65; P < .001). Furthermore, OFS was maintained during subsequent cycles for all patients assigned to receive degarelix and letrozole, whereas 15.4% of patients assigned to receive triptorelin and letrozole had suboptimal OFS after cycle 1 (six events during 127 measurements). Adverse events as a result of both degarelix plus letrozole and triptorelin plus letrozole were as expected.

CONCLUSION

In premenopausal women receiving letrozole for neoadjuvant endocrine therapy, OFS was achieved more quickly and maintained more effectively with degarelix than with triptorelin.
Barriers and Opportunities of Oncofertility Practice in Nine Developing Countries and the Emerging Oncofertility Professional Engagement Network
Authors: Salama Mahmoud , Ataman-Millhouse Lauren , Sobral Fabio , Terrado Guillermo , Scarella Anibal , Bourlon Maria T. , Adiga Satish Kumar , Udupa Karthik S. , Mahajan Nalini , Patil Madhuri , Venter Chris , Demetriou Georgia , Quintana Ramiro , Rodriguez Gabriela , Quintana Tomas , Viale Luz , Bonilla Yuly Andrea Remolina , Noguera July Andrea Russi , Velásquez Juan Carlos Velásquez , Pineda Jennifer Ivonne Dominguez , Aldecoa Mario Daniel Castro , Javed Murid , Al Sufyan Hamad , Daniels Nonso , Ogunmokun Adegbite A. , Woodruff Teresa K.
Published: December 2018

PURPOSE

Oncofertility practice continues to grow in developing countries despite the lack of health care services, especially those related to cancer care. The purpose of this study is to further explore oncofertility practice in these countries and identify opportunities for field-wide coalescence.

METHODS

We generated a survey to learn more about oncofertility practice in nine developing countries within our Oncofertility Consortium Global Partners Network—Mexico, Colombia, Guatemala, Argentina, Chile, Nigeria, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, and India. Their responses were collected, reviewed, and discussed.

RESULTS

Surveyed centers from the nine developing countries continue to experience a similar set of common challenges, including a lack of awareness among providers and patients, cultural and religious constraints, lack of insurance coverage and funding to help to support oncofertility programs, and high out-of-pocket costs for patients. Despite these barriers, many opportunities exist and there is great potential for the future.

CONCLUSION

The current need is to unify the new technologies and best practices that emerge from rural communities and developing countries with those in large metropolitan cities, both domestically (US based) and abroad, into a functional unit: the Oncofertility Professional Engagement Network. The Oncofertility Professional Engagement Network will bridge the gap between domestic and international programs to establish a strong global network in which members share resources, methodologies and experiences and further build cultural competency.
Hydrosilylation of Diene Derivatives Catalyzed by Fe-Iminobipyridine Complexes Aiming at Syntheses of Organosilane Compounds Containing a Terminal Olefin Portion
Authors: Kobayashi Katsuaki , Teratani Sayaka , Izumori Yosuke , Hayasaka Kazumasa , Nakazawa Hiroshi
Published: December 2018

The catalytic ability of Fe-iminobipyridine complexes ((BPI)FeBr2, BPI = iminobipyridine) for hydrosilylation of both a non-conjugated diene and a conjugated diene was investigated aiming at the production of organosilane compounds bearing a terminal olefin portion. Steric effects of (BPI)FeBr2 were controlled by the substituents at the terminal pyridine ring (R1), the imino carbon (R2), and the imino nitrogen (Ar) of the BPI ligand. As regards a non-conjugated diene, hydrosilylation of 1,7-octadiene with diphenylsilane (Ph2SiH2) produced a mixture of mono- and di-hydrosilylated compounds. To obtain the mono-hydrosilylated compound preferably in the 1:1 reaction of non-conjugated diene and silane, the substituent effect of the BPI ligand was investigated. As a result, larger steric hindrance of (BPI)FeBr2 based on substituents slowed the hydrosilylation, instead the selectivity of the mono-hydrosilylated compound was substantially improved. The 6′-Me group on a terminal pyridine was most effective. Finally, production of the mono-hydrosilylated compound from 1,7-octadiene and Ph2SiH2 reached 77% yield and 0.94 selectivity. In the case of a conjugated diene, (BPI)FeBr2 with any substituents selectively generated 1,4-hydrosilylated compound in hydrosilylation of 2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene with Ph2SiH2. In this case, higher steric hindrance of (BPI)FeBr2 simply decreased the yield of the product.
pQCT- and Ultrasound-based Muscle and Fat Estimate Errors after Resistance Exercise
Authors: ROWE GRANT SIMON , BLAZEVICH ANTHONY J. , HAFF G. GREGORY
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Resistance exercise increases blood flow, induces osmotic and hydrostatic fluid shifts during and immediately after exercise, and may trigger inflammatory responses for several days in the working muscle. The resultant muscle swelling can subsequently affect muscle size and quality assessments. However, the effects of muscle swelling on x-ray attenuation of adipose estimate errors are unknown.

Methods

Peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT) and ultrasonography were used to assess muscle and adipose tissue properties of both upper arms before, 24, 48, and 72 h after unilateral resistance exercise. Recreationally active participants (n = 17) completed the exercise while their contralateral limb served as a control.

Results

Resistance exercise resulted in a significant increase in pQCT-derived muscle cross-sectional area (includes intermuscular adipose tissue [IMAT] area), muscle area (excludes IMAT area) and IMAT area, and ultrasound-derived muscle thickness at 24, 48, and 72 h. A significant decrease in pQCT-derived muscle density was also detected as well as an increase in ultrasound-derived echo intensity at 48 and 72 h. The changes in muscle area, IMAT area, and muscle density were significantly correlated with changes in echo intensity, whereas the changes in muscle cross-sectional area and IMAT area were significantly correlated with changes in muscle thickness.

Conclusion

Unaccustomed resistance exercise can cause errors in pQCT- and ultrasound-based muscle and adipose estimates for at least 72 h. These errors are the result of muscle swelling likely caused by muscle blood flow and inflammation-dependent fluid shifts in muscle. These findings may have implications for measurements in other inflammatory conditions.
ON THE QUESTION OF MULTILINGUAL EDUCATION AT A NON-LINGUISTIC UNIVERSITY
Authors: Друцко Наталья , Drutsko Natalya
Published: December 2018

The article is devoted to the practical issues of multilingual approach to foreign language teaching at a technical university. The last decade has witnessed a rapid increase in multilingualism in higher education. The vital problems of learning and teaching the third foreign language have become the research subject of many specialists. The article discusses educational aspects of promoting multilingualism at a non-linguistic university. The author sums up the experience of working out a special course for studying a third foreign language and creating a practical by the foreign language department staff of a comparative manual for teaching English after German.
How to Do Things with Organs: Moving Parts in The Duchess of Malfi
Authors: Biggie Roya
Published: December 2018

This article analyzes the agency of mobile organs and parts in John Webster’s The Duchess of Malfi. While criticism on the individuated part in the play has primarily focused on Ferdinand's blazonic renderings of the Duchess’s body, I argue that the Duchess reappropriates her brother’s language and develops what I refer to as a rhetoric of intercorporeal exchange. For the Duchess, the exchange of unruly parts — organs and spirits that leave one body to enter another — has desirable rather than disastrous effects, allowing her to merge metaphysically with Antonio. In its allusions to Neoplatonism and theories of hidden sympathies, the play, I argue, dramatizes a conception of humoral subjectivity that was inextricably linked to the exchange of itinerant and invasive parts.
Blasphemy, Swearing, and Bad Behaviour in The Witch of Edmonton
Authors: Dean David
Published: December 2018

This essay considers the key moment in Dekker, Ford, and Rowley’s The Witch of Edmonton when Elizabeth Sawyer’s cursing encourages a liaison with the devil taking the form of a black dog, a scenario taken from a real-life account of her trial and confession. By situating the episode in the larger context of contemporary discussions about swearing and blasphemy, through an examination of local histories, literature, parliamentary debates, and statutes, it offers a nuanced assessment of the play in light of what historians have called ‘the reformation of manners’ in early Stuart society.
An overview of the role of the district nurse caring for individuals with complex needs
Authors: McCrory Victoria
Published: December 2018

The role of the district nurse is imperative in the care of patients in a district nursing team's caseload. Through the role of care manager, district nurses are accountable for the overall coordination of the care patients receive. Their responsibilities include caring for acutely ill patients, those with long-term conditions and people who require end-of-life care, in addition to health promotion and patient education. They provide personcentred, preventive and coordinated care, which reduces unnecessary hospital admissions and enables patients who have a range of complex needs to remain at or return to home. In this article, a case study is used to provide an overview of the role and accountability of the district nurse in the care of patients who have complex needs.
Self expression
Authors: Goddard Charlotte
Published: December 2018

Practitioners must understand how two-year-olds communicate through behaviour, and the important part played by adult role-modelling, explains Charlotte Goddard
The Phytochemical Analysisand Antimicrobial Activity of Pergulariato mentosa in North East Kingdome of Saudi Arabia KSA
Authors: Rayyan Walid Abu , Alshammari Sami A. G. , ALSammary Abdulaziz M. F. , ALShammari Mutab S. S. , Seder Nisreen , Qatoosh Luay Abu , Bostami Muna , Mansoor Kenza , F. Hamad Mohammed , AlMajali Ibrahim S. , Daiyyah Wael Abu
Published: December 2018

The increment in numbers of antimicrobial resistant strains along with the scarcity of new targets for drug industry has forced scientists to investigate deeply in the natural resources for new compounds with antimicrobial activity. Pergularia tomentosa is a member of the Apocynaceae family found in a wide geographical region including the Gulf region, Africa, and the Middle East. It is used as a remedy for the treatment of skin sores, asthma, and bronchitis. Dried plants of Pergularia tomentosa were subjected to extraction by using a Soxhlet extractor process to obtain essential oil and characterized by HPLC- Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS). The essential oil was evaluated for antibacterial activity against pathogenic microorganisms by well diffusion method and confirmed by microdilution method. Additionally, we measured the antioxidant activity of the extracts using DPPH reagent. Phytochemical analysis has revealed variation in compositions and concentrations of P. tomentosa constituents grown in Hail from other agricultural regions. The lowest MIC was recorded with ethyl acetate extract MIC of 6.25 mg/ml against S. typhi, whereas, the ethanolic extract had the broadest effective against the five strains with a MIC of 25 mg/ml. In conclusion, we summarize a variation between the phytochemical constituents of P. tomentosa plants grown in the district of Hail and other geographical regions. In addition, there are several natural phytocompounds with an antimicrobial activity could be a good target for the antimicrobial and antioxidants industry.
Effect of Cpp-aCp and Cpp-aCpf pastes on the Surface Hardness of Initial Dental Erosion Lesions: an In Situ Study
Authors: Cruz prates Cibele da , fernandes Liege Helena freitas , agra de Melo João Baptista da Costa , de alencar Catarina Ribeiro Barros , Cavalcanti alessandro Leite
Published: December 2018

To analyze the effect of intra-oral application of CPP-ACP and CPP-ACPF pastes on the surface hardness of initial dental erosion lesions.Bovine enamel specimens were randomly assigned into 6 volunteers in 3 treatment groups: GI: CPP-ACP paste, GII: CPP-ACPF paste and GIII (Control): Placebo paste without CPP-ACP and without fluoride. Enamel specimens were selected by surface hardness (SHi), in vitro eroded by immersion in hydrochloric acid for 30 seconds (SHdes) and randomized between treatment groups and volunteers, who used the palatal intraoral device for 2 hours, applied the treatment on the specimens and used the palatal intraoral device for an additional 3 hours in 3 crossed phases, interspersed with a 7-day washout period. Subsequently, the surface hardness (SHre) was measured to estimate the re-hardening potential of the softened enamel promoted by treatments. Data were analyzed using the t-test and one-way ANOVA, adopting 5% significance level. Mean final and post-erosion hardness values were statistically significant for pastes tested (p<0.05), which presented re-hardening effect of the softened enamel, but with no difference between them and placebo (p>0.05). CPP-ACP and CPP-ACPF pastes did not demonstrate higher efficacy in re-hardening the eroded enamel compared to placebo paste.
Influence of Glypican-3 as Anewly Diagnostic Biomarker in Earlydetection of Hepatocellular Carcinoma among Saudi Patients
Authors: MA Farag Randa Mohamed , AlAyobi Dujana , A Alsaleh Khalid , Kwon Hye-Joo , EL-Ansary Afaf , Dawoud Emad Anwar
Published: December 2018

In Saudi Arabia AFP considered the main serum marker for diagnostic Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), due to the continuous detection of HCC in Saudi Arabia, using new biomarkers for early surveillance are essential to control in prevalence of HCC. The present study depend on compare the significant between serum and mRNA Glypican-3 (GPC-3) as newly identified diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for HCC between study cases. And combined sensitivity of AFP and GPC-3. Three hundred study cases, divided into: 250 blood samples were 145 samples from HCC , 105 samples from chronic liver cirrhosis (CLC) and 50 normal controls were investigated for serum GPC-3 (sGPC-3) by Sandwich ELISA. Glypican-3 mRNA from whole blood cells was detected by quantitative RT-PCR. The comparison between two techniques was by sensitivity and specificity. The results of sGPC-3 showed higher significant in HCC group than CLC and normal controls (p<0.001). sGPC-3 sensitivity was 95% and specificity was 100%, while in GPC-3 mRNA were 100% and 94% respectively. The combination of sensitivity between AFP and sGPC-3 was 80% and 95% respectively. The data demonstrated that, can depend on sGPC-3 and Glypican-3 mRNA as tumor biomarkers for detection and surveillance of Hepatocellular carcinoma in Saudi patients. The sensitivity of Reverse Transcriptase-PCR is high accurate (100%) than estimating sGPC-3 by ELISA (95%).
Mathematical Modeling for Pharmacokinetic Predictions from Controlled Drug Release Nano Systems: A Comparative Parametric Study
Authors: Haidar Ziyad S.
Published: December 2018

In the present work, several mathematical models well-known in the literature for simulating drug release kinetics are compared using available experimental data sets obtained in real systems with different drugs and nano-sized carriers. Herein, the χ2 minimization method, is employed concluding that the Korsmeyer-Peppas model provides the best-ﬁt in all cases. Hence, (i) better understanding of the exact mass transport mechanism(s) involved in drug(s) release, and (ii) quantitative prediction of the drug release kinetics, can be computed.
Comparative Analysis of Heart Rate Variability Parameters for Arrhythmia and Atrial Fibrillation using ANOVA
Authors: Kirti Kirti , Sohal Harsh , Jain Shruti
Published: December 2018

Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is an important criterion to check the cardiac health. Sudden HRV signifies the unhealthy condition of the heart, particularly when the person is suffering from a cardiac disease. HRV parameters on different patients of different ages, gender and health conditions are observed using time domain, geometrical domain and frequency domain. Statistical comparison is done on three different databases MIT/BIH Normal Sinus Rhythm (NSR), MIT/BIH Arrhythmia (AR) and MIT/BIH Atrial Fibrillation (AF) using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) technique. We have extracted twenty HRV features from all the three domains, which show weak, moderate or strong significant changes as per the relation during comparison with respective databases. Out of twenty only nine features are selected which shows noticeable difference between three databases. Later, the selected features will be used for classification in future.
Nutrient Variability Following Dairy Manure Storage Agitation
Authors: Aguirre-Villegas Horacio A , Sharara Mahmoud A , Larson Rebecca A
Published: December 2018

Abstract. The nutrient profile in stored manure can be highly variable due to the solids building up at the bottom of the storage over time as unagitated manure is removed. This variability can lead to under- or over-application of nutrients potentially reducing crop yields or increasing nutrient losses, respectively. Agitation of stored manure is a common practice to re-suspend solids providing a more uniform nutrient consistency for application. This study explores the solids and nutrient variability in stored dairy manure after agitation and the relationship between the number of samples and the quality of the nutrient content estimate. A total of 16 dairy facilities across Wisconsin were sampled in the study. Samples were taken during agitation and analyzed for total solids (TS), total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), total phosphorus (TP), total potassium (TK), and microminerals. Overall, TKN, TAN, and TP contents were more uniform than TS. The mean concentrations (wet basis) from the 16 farms range from 2.45% to 15.28% for TS, 0.17% to 0.53% for TKN, 0.01% to 0.33 for TAN, 0.02 to 0.06 for TP, and 0.11% to 0.31% for TK. This range is mostly attributed to the between-farms variability in manure nutrient content. In addition, 54% of the total variation in the TS content was attributable to within-farm sample variability. These results show that TS was variable on farms whereas TKN, TAN, and TP were variable between farms. A random resampling analysis showed that three samples generate a mean between 20% to 30% of the true experimental mean for TKN and TAN whereas nine samples are required to be in this range for TP. Results show that the improvement achieved by adding more samples than 11 is less than 10%. Keywords: Dairy manure, Manure agitation, Nutrients, Nutrient variability, Sample size.
Comparison of the Influence of Dynamic High-Pressure Microfluidization and Conventional Homogenization on the Quality of Kiwi Fruit Juice
Authors: Wang X. Y. , Wu S. H. , Zong W.
Published: December 2018

Abstract. The effect of dynamic high-pressure microfluidization (DHPM) on the physical and chemical properties of kiwi fruit juice was compared with that of conventional homogenization (CH). The effect of DHPM pressure and pass number were also assessed. Juice was passed through CH at 20 MPa and DHPM at 40-120 MPa for one to four passes. Results indicated that both CH and DHPM treatment exerted an insignificant effect on the content of total polyphenols and total soluble solids. In comparison, both CH and DHPM reduced Vc content, and the reduction rate induced by DHPM increased with the pressure and passing numbers, which could be explained by the rise of temperature during CH and DHPM processing. Regarding color and transmittance, both CH and DHPM treatments demonstrated a remarkable enhancement, where DHPM showed a higher increase rate. In addition, DHPM showed a remarkable reduction in mean particle size compared to CH and control. In conclusion, DHPM treatment was more beneficial to improve the quality of kiwi fruit juice than CH, suggesting that DHPM technology is a potential alternative to CH for application in kiwi fruit juice, and resulting in a desirable high-quality juice for the consumers. Keywords: Dynamic high pressure microfluidization, Kiwi fruit juice, Physical and chemical property, Total phenolic.
Evaluation of the Performance of a Custom-Made Fluidized Bed Drying System
Authors: Sadaka Sammy S. , Luthra Kaushik , Atungulu Griffiths G.
Published: December 2018

Abstract. Laboratory and farm-scale fluidized bed dryers are not available to purchase. Additionally, a deliberation is presently continuing regarding the beneficial and damaging effects of drying grain in a fluidized bed. Therefore, the goal of this research was to develop and test a custom-made small-scale fluidized bed dryer, suitable for moderate farms and capable of drying small and large size grains from high moisture content to a safe storage moisture content. The customary fluidized bed dryer was developed and constructed in the Rice Research and Extension Center, Stuttgart, Arkansas. The fluidized bed dryer was used to dry wheat from an initial moisture content of 23.3% db. The effects of the aspect ratio (bed height to bed diameter ratio) of 2, 3, and 4 m/m, the furnace temperature of no heat, 100°C, 150°C, and 200°C and drying duration of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 min on the wheat moisture content, drying rate, and dryer efficiency were investigated. The lowest wheat moisture content of 16.3% db was observed at the lowest aspect ratio of 2 m/m, the highest furnace temperature of 200°C, and the longest drying duration of 60 min. Conversely, the highest wheat moisture content of 19.0% db was observed at the highest aspect ratio of 4 m/m, and the no heat condition. The drying rate of 0.47%/min was observed at the lowest aspect ratio of 2 m/m and the furnace temperature of 200°C after 10 min. The maximum dryer efficiency of 63.2% was achieved at the aspect ratio of 4 m/m, the furnace temperature of 200°C. Two empirical models were developed to predict the moisture content of wheat and the dryer efficiency as affected by the aspect ratio, the furnace temperature and the drying duration with the adjusted coefficient of determination of 0.91 and 0.88, respectively. Although, the developed fluidized bed dryer is a lab-scale system, the experimental results provided an exceptional indication to scale up the drying system to dry grains. Keywords: Dryer efficiency, Drying rate, Fluidized bed, Moisture content, Wheat-drying.