bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasmid-Mediated
mcr-1
Colistin Resistance in Escherichia coli from a Black Kite in Russia
Authors: Tarabai Hassan , Valcek Adam , Jamborova Ivana , Vazhov Sergey V. , Karyakin Igor V. , Raab Rainer , Literak Ivan , Dolejska Monika
Published: July 2019

The gene
mcr-1
conferring resistance to last-line antibiotic colistin has been reported globally. Here, we describe the first detection of plasmid-mediated colistin resistance in Russian wildlife, an isolate of
Escherichia coli
sequence type 2280 from a black kite (
Milvus migrans
) scavenging raptor. Whole-genome sequencing and plasmid transferability experiments revealed that
mcr-1.1
was located on conjugative IncI2 plasmid pDR164 (59891 bp).
A Multicenter Study To Evaluate Ceftaroline Breakpoints: Performance in an Area with High Prevalence of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Sequence Type 5 Lineage
Authors: Khan Ayesha , Rivas Lina M. , Spencer Maria , Martinez Rodrigo , Lam Marusella , Rojas Pamela , Porte Lorena , Silva Francisco , Braun Stephanie , Valdivieso Francisca , Mv̈lhauser Margareta , Lafourcade Mónica , Miller William R. , García Patricia , Arias Cesar A. , Munita Jose M.
Published: July 2019

Ceftaroline (CPT) is a broad-spectrum agent with potent activity against methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA). The sequence type 5 (ST5) Chilean-Cordobés clone, associated with CPT nonsusceptibility, is dominant in Chile, a region with high rates of MRSA infections.
Crypt- and Mucosa-Associated Core Microbiotas in Humans and Their Alteration in Colon Cancer Patients
Authors: Saffarian Azadeh , Mulet Céline , Regnault Béatrice , Amiot Aurélien , Tran-Van-Nhieu Jeanne , Ravel Jacques , Sobhani Iradj , Sansonetti Philippe J. , Pédron Thierry
Published: July 2019

Due to the huge number of bacteria constituting the human colon microbiota, alteration in the balance of its constitutive taxa (i.e., dysbiosis) is highly suspected of being involved in colorectal oncogenesis. Indeed, bacterial signatures in association with CRC have been described. These signatures may vary if bacteria are identified in feces or in association with tumor tissues. Here, we show that bacteria colonize human colonic crypts in tissues obtained from patients with CRC and with normal colonoscopy results. Aerobic nonfermentative
Proteobacteria
previously identified as constitutive of the crypt-specific core microbiota in murine colonic samples are similarly prevalent in human colonic crypts in combination with other anaerobic taxa. We also show that bacterial signatures characterizing the crypts of colonic tumors vary depending whether right-side or left-side tumors are analyzed.
Axl Promotes Zika Virus Entry and Modulates the Antiviral State of Human Sertoli Cells
Authors: Strange Daniel P. , Jiyarom Boonyanudh , Pourhabibi Zarandi Nima , Xie Xuping , Baker Coleman , Sadri-Ardekani Hooman , Shi Pei-Yong , Verma Saguna
Published: July 2019

Recent Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreaks have identified sexual transmission as a new route of disease spread not reported for other flaviviruses. ZIKV crosses the blood-testis barrier and establishes infection in seminiferous tubules, the site for spermatozoa development. Currently, there are no therapies to treat ZIKV infection, and the immune mechanisms underlying testicular persistence are unclear. We found that multiple human testicular cell types, except Leydig cells, support ZIKV infection. Axl receptor, which plays a pivotal role in maintaining the immunosuppressive milieu of the testis, is highly expressed in Sertoli cells and augments ZIKV infection by promoting virus entry and negatively regulating the antiviral state. By using testicular organoids, we further describe the antiviral role of Axl inhibition. The significance of our research lies in defining cross talk between Axl and type I interferon signaling as an essential mechanism of immune control that can inform therapeutic efforts to clear ZIKV from the testis.
Progress in Elucidating Potential Markers and Mechanisms of Rapid Protection Conferred by the VSV-Vectored Ebola Virus Vaccine
Authors: Wong Gary
Published: July 2019

Research progress over the past 20 years has yielded several experimental Ebola virus (EBOV) vaccine candidates, which were shown to be effective in nonhuman primates when given 28 days before a lethal challenge. Of these, the vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV)-vectored vaccine against EBOV (VSV-EBOV) is unique at being able to induce rapid protection, with 100% survival achieved as soon as 7 days after EBOV challenge.
Competing sediment sources during Paleozoic closure of the Marathon-Ouachita remnant ocean basin
Authors: Gao Zihui , Perez Nicholas D. , Miller Brent , Pope Michael C.
Published: July 2019

The Paleozoic construction of Pangea advanced southwestward from the Appalachian system to the Marathon fold-and-thrust belt in west Texas and progressively closed a remnant ocean basin between Laurentia and Gondwana. The resulting collisional orogen was a potential driver of Ancestral Rocky Mountain tectonism and impacted continental-scale sediment routing. New detrital zircon U-Pb geochronologic and heavy mineral provenance data from Ordovician–Pennsylvanian strata in the Marathon fold-and-thrust belt, and Permian strata in the Guadalupe Mountains of west Texas record changes in sediment provenance during the tectonic development of southwestern Laurentia and the Delaware Basin. In the Marathon fold-and-thrust belt, Ordovician rocks (Woods Hollow and Marathon Formations) record peri-Gondwanan sediment sources prior to continent collision. Syncollisional Mississippian and Pennsylvanian rocks (Tesnus, Haymond, Gaptank Formations) record contributions from distal Appalachian sources, recycled material from the active continental suture, and volcanic arc material from Gondwana. Near the Guadalupe Mountains, postcollisional Permian strata (Delaware Mountain Group) from the northern Delaware Basin margin suggest a dominantly southern catchment that was sourced from the deforming suture and Gondwanan arc. The results demonstrate that both plates and the active suture zone were sources for the siliciclastic wedge, but their proportions differed through time. These results also suggest that the delay between initial late Mississippian suturing in the Marathon region and increased mid-Permian siliciclastic deposition into the northern Delaware Basin may have been linked to a southward catchment expansion that integrated the collisional belt and southern volcanic arc into a broadly north-directed sediment dispersal system.
Tracheal agenesis in a new born: lessons learnt
Authors: Naina P , John Mary , Kathar Mohamed Abdul , Kumar Manish
Published: July 2019

Tracheal agenesis is a rare but fatal congenital tracheal malformation. Lack of prenatal symptom and a typical clinical presentation lead to failure to arrive at a correct diagnosis and confusion during resuscitation. We report a case of a newborn male child with type 2 tracheal agenesis. Despite a typical presentation, diagnosis was delayed after unsuccessful intubation, examination under anaesthesia and emergency tracheostomy. The embryology, diagnostic criteria and potential treatment options are discussed. This case report is valuable in increasing awareness of this rare condition and will help us in being better prepared in managing these children. Future studies should aim to find the optimal replacement for the tracheal.
Revisiting a case of difficult airway with a rigid laryngoscope
Authors: Pai BH Poonam , Shariat Ali N
Published: July 2019

A cook airway exchange catheter is a long hollow and semirigid catheter which is routinely used for endotracheal tube (ETT) exchange in the intensive care unit setting or even in the operating room in an event of unexpected difficult airway. We describe a novel technique of using an ETT exchanger with the help of a rigid laryngoscope to facilitate intubation as a strategy in a patient with an anticipated difficult airway due to laryngeal cancer presenting as stridor with respiratory distress.
Acute myeloid leukaemia presenting with bilateral breast masses
Authors: Cheng Kai Chun Andrew , Li Yan-Lin , Lam Tina
Published: July 2019

A 46-year-old woman with a known history of acute myeloid leukaemia presented with bilateral breast masses with pain and itchiness. The breast masses were hard on palpation. Mammogram was unremarkable. Ultrasound showed multiple conglomerated masses of heterogeneous hyperechogenicity and hypoechogenicity throughout all quadrants of bilateral breasts. Pathology showed mononuclear cells, suggestive of breast leukaemic infiltration. She was treated with decitabine and platelet transfusion.
Chemotherapy in combination with stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for oligometastatic pancreatic cancer
Authors: Vorobyov Nikolay , Rykov Ivan , Orlova Rashida , Cherkashin Mikhail
Published: July 2019

Metastatic pancreatic cancer is characterised by poor prognosis. High toxicity of chemotherapy limits its use in elderly patients with severe comorbidities. Meanwhile, in metastatic disease, local treatment did not show the positive effect on life expectancy. We present a clinical case of a 72-year-old woman with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma tumour, node, metastases (T3N0M1) (according to the seventh TNM classification of the International Union Against Cancer). Chemotherapy led to partial response, but later was stopped due to severe toxicity. Thereafter, consolidating radiosurgical treatment was performed. Dose to pancreatic and liver lesions was 35 Gy in five fractions. After 9 months, only one liver lesion and primary pancreatic tumour, stable in size were determined by MRI. At present time, the patient is alive and in good condition, the disease is stable 50 months after stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). SBRT provides a high level of local control and in combination with systemic treatment can potentially increase survival.
Partial gonadal dysgenesis associated with a pathogenic variant ofPBX1transcription factor
Authors: Kia Farnaaz , Sarafoglou Kyriakie , Mooganayakanakote Siddappa Ashajyothi , Roberts Kari D
Published: July 2019

A term neonate was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for respiratory distress, hypotonia and atypical genitalia. Significant findings included a small phallic structure, labial folds, no palpable gonads and two perineal openings. Pelvic ultrasound showed uterine didelphys and a gonad in the right inguinal canal. The right gonad was removed during diagnostic laparoscopy with microscopic evaluation showing infantile testicular tissue and fluorescence in-situ hybridisation showed only XY signal suggesting that the removed gonad was a male-developed testis. Infant was 46,XY, SRY probe positive. The parents chose a female sex assignment prior to gonadectomy. The infant had respiratory insufficiency and central hypotonia that persisted on discharge. Whole exome sequencing showed a heterozygous pathogenic variant of thePBX1gene. This variant encodes the pre-B-cell leukaemia homeobox PBX transcription factor and has been associated with malformations and severe hypoplasia or aplasia of multiple organs including lungs and gonads. Whole exome sequencing was crucial in providing a unifying diagnosis for this patient.
McCune Albright syndrome: an endocrine medley
Authors: Rajan Remya , Cherian Kripa Elizabeth , Asha Hesarghatta Shyamsunder , Paul Thomas Vizhalil
Published: July 2019

McCune Albright syndromeis a rare disorder that presents with multiple endocrine abnormalities. We report the case of a 24-year-old woman who presented with right lower limb pain, with no preceding trauma or fracture. On examination she was noted to have coarsened facial features, acral enlargement, bitemporal hemianopia, galactorrhoea and multiple café-au-lait macules. She gave history of precocious puberty, having attained menarche at 7 years of age. Biochemical investigations revealed hyperprolactinaemia, with unsuppressed growth hormone levels following a glucose load and subclinical hyperthyroidism. Technetium-99m methylene diphosphonate bone scan showed polyostotic fibrous dysplasia, MRI of the brain showed a pituitary macroadenoma. Thus she was diagnosed to have McCune Albright syndrome with multiple endocrine manifestations. She was treated with parenteral zoledronate for her bony lesions and initiated on cabergoline for plurihormonal pituitary macroadenoma. She is planned to be on close follow-up to assess for clinical improvement and appearance of other manifestations.
Urethral lithiasis after phalloplasty
Authors: Pereira-Lourenço Mário José , Eliseu Miguel , Temido Paulo , Figueiredo Arnaldo
Published: July 2019

Female-to-male transsexual patient, 22 years old, with neophallus from radial forearm free flap (phalloplasty in March 2014), history of urethral fistula and urethral stricture 1 year later treated with surgical correction (fistulectomy) and suprapubic urinary diversion. Subsequently, he developed a new urethral stenosis located in the urethral anastomosis. Immediately proximal to the stenosis, there was a urethral dilatation (pseudodiverticulum) with a fibrous septum and several retracted stones. The stones were fragmented, the fibrous septum destroyed and the urethral stricture corrected, all with holmium laser. After 40 months of follow-up the patient shows satisfactory urinary flow with no signs of residual lithiasis or stricture.
Dignity of the patient-–family unit: further understanding in hospice palliative care
Authors: Guo Qiaohong , Zheng Ruishuang , Jacelon Cynthia S , McClement Susan , Thompson Genevieve , Chochinov Harvey
Published: July 2019

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the construct of dignity of the patient–family dyad in hospice palliative care, as well as its influencing factors from the perspective of hospice palliative care staff.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted with 34 staff members from a residential hospice in Amherst, USA, and an inpatient palliative care unit in Winnipeg, Canada, between September 2013 and December 2016. Data were collected through semistructured interviews and were analysed using the thematic analysis approach.

Results

Findings suggested that staff members viewed dignity as something that is reciprocally supported within the patient–family unit. Themes including respect, comfort, privacy, being informed and quality family time were common in the conceptualisation of dignity in patients and families; themes of being human and being self, autonomy and living with dignity were uniquely used to conceptualise patient dignity. Themes solely constituting family dignity included being included in care, being capable and being treated fairly. Cultural considerations, environmental factors, teamwork and patient/family–staff relationship were the factors identified by staff members that affected dignity in hospice palliative care.

Conclusion

Findings of this study provide insights into the development of strategies to support the dignity of the patient–family unit in hospice palliative care.
Power and physician leadership
Authors: Saxena Anurag , Meschino Diane , Hazelton Lara , Chan Ming-Ka , Benrimoh David A , Matlow Anne , Dath Deepak , Busari Jamiu
Published: July 2019

Power and leadership are intimately related. While physician leadership is widely discussed in healthcare, power has received less attention. Formal organisational leadership by physicians is increasingly common even though the evidence for the effectiveness of physician leadership is still evolving. There is an expectation of leadership by all physicians for resource stewardship. The impact of power on interprofessional education and practice needs further study. Power also shapes the profession’s attempts to address physician and learner well-being with its implications for patient care. Unfortunately, the profession is not exempt from inappropriate use of power. These observations led the authors to explore the concept and impact of power in physician leadership. Drawing from a range of conceptualisations including structuralist (French and Raven), feminist (Allen) and poststructuralist (Foucault) conceptualisations of power, we explore how power is acquired and exercised in healthcare systems and enacted in leadership praxis by individual physician leaders (PL). Judicious use of power will benefit from consideration and application of a range of concepts including liminality, power mediation, power distance, inter-related use of power bases, intergroup and shared leadership, inclusive leadership, empowerment, transformational leadership and discourse for meaning-making. Avoiding abuse of power requires moral courage, and those who seek to become accountable leaders may benefit from adaptive reflection. Reframing ‘followers’ as ‘constituents or citizens’ is one way to interrupt discourses and narratives that reinforce traditional power imbalances. Applying these concepts can enhance creativity, cocreation and citizenship-strengthening commitment to improved healthcare. PLs can contribute greatly in this regard to further transform healthcare.
Association of lipoprotein subfractions and glycoprotein acetylation with coronary plaque burden in SLE
Authors: Purmalek Monica M , Carlucci Philip M , Dey Amit K , Sampson Maureen , Temesgen-Oyelakin Yenealem , Sakhardande Simantini , Lerman Joseph B , Fike Alice , Davis Michael , Chung Jonathan H , Salahuddin Taufiq , Manna Zerai , Gupta Sarthak , Chen Marcus Y , Hasni Sarfaraz , Mehta Nehal N , Remaley Alan , Kaplan Mariana J
Published: July 2019

Objective

Subjects with SLE display an enhanced risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) that is not explained by Framingham risk. This study sought to investigate the utility of nuclear MR (NMR) spectroscopy measurements of serum lipoprotein particle counts and size and glycoprotein acetylation (GlycA) burden to predict coronary atherosclerosis in SLE.

Methods

Coronary plaque burden was assessed in SLE subjects and healthy controls using coronary CT angiography. Lipoproteins and GlycA were quantified by NMR spectroscopy.

Results

SLE subjects displayed statistically significant decreases in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) particle counts and increased very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) particle counts compared with controls. Non-calcified coronary plaque burden (NCB) negatively associated with HDL subsets whereas it positively associated with VLDL particle counts in multivariate adjusted models. GlycA was significantly increased in SLE sera compared with controls. In contrast to high-sensitivity C reactive protein, elevations in GlycA in SLE significantly associated with NCB and insulin resistance (IR), though the association with NCB was no longer significant after adjusting for prednisone use.

Conclusions

Patients with SLE display a proatherogenic lipoprotein profile that may significantly contribute to the development of premature CVD. The results demonstrate that NMR measures of GlycA and lipoprotein profiles, beyond what is captured in routine clinical labs, could be a useful tool in assessing CVD risk in patients with SLE.
Sex-dependent prolongation of sciatic nerve blockade in diabetes patients: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Tang Shuai , Wang Jin , Tian Yi , Li Xu , Cui Qiuju , Xu Mei , Song Xiaojun , Zheng Yuehong , Yang Hongbo , Ma Chao , Zhan Lujing , Zhu Chaonan , Zhang Yuelun , Yao Min , Huang Yuguang
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Diabetes may affect the duration of nerve block after regional anesthesia. This study aimed to compare the durations of sensory and motor block in diabetes versus non-diabetes patients after lower limb nerve block and delineate any sex-based differences in the duration of sensory and motor blocks of both diabetes and non-diabetes patients.

Methods

This prospective single-blinded cohort study recruited 86 patients who underwent unilateral lower extremity surgery; 52 patients were non-diabetic and 34 were diabetic. Each patient received an ultrasound-guided nerve stimulator-assisted subgluteal sciatic nerve block with 0.75% ropivacaine. Duration of sensory block was assessed with the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test, and duration of motor block was assessed with dorsal and plantar flexion of the foot.

Results

The sensory and motor block durations of diabetes patients were significantly prolonged versus non-diabetes patients (19.8±6.0 hours vs 15.6±5.1 hours; p<0.05) and (19.5±8.1 hours vs 14.8±5.7 hours, p=0.005), respectively. The durations of sensory and motor block were comparable between male diabetes and non-diabetes patients, but they were significantly longer in female diabetes patients. Multiple regression analysis further revealed that, after adjustment for age and preoperative sensory threshold, diabetes, fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c levels were signiﬁcantly associated with sensory and motor blocks. Sex analysis showed the association was only present in female diabetes patients, not male diabetes patients.

Conclusion

The durations of sensory and motor block are significantly prolonged after subgluteal sciatic nerve block in diabetes patients. Furthermore, the prolonged nerve blockade is present only in diabetes women, not diabetes men.

Trial registration number

NCT02482831.
Linear magnetic resonance imaging measurements of the hippocampal formation differ in young versus old dogs
Authors: Gardini Anna , Taeymans Olivier , Cherubini Giunio Bruto , de Stefani Alberta , Targett Mike , Vettorato Enzo
Published: July 2019

Age‐related hippocampal formation (HF) atrophy has been documented on MRI studies using volumetric analysis and visual rating scales.This retrospective cross‐sectional study aimed to compare linear MRI measurements of the HF between young (1–3 years) and old (>10 years) non‐brachycephalic dogs, with normal brain anatomy and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis. Right and left hippocampal formation height (HFH), height of the brain (HB) and mean HFH/HB ratio were measured by two observers on a transverse T2 fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery sequence containing rostral colliculi and mesencephalic aqueduct.119 MRI studies were enrolled: 75 young and 44 old dogs. Left and right HFH were greater (p<0.0001) in young, while HB was greater in old dogs (p=0.024). Mean HFH/HB ratio was 15.66 per cent and 18.30 per cent in old and young dogs (p<0.0001). No differences were found comparing measurements between epileptic and non‐epileptic dogs.Old dogs have a greater HB; this may represent the different study populations or a statistical phenomenon. Ageing affects HF linear measurements. A reduction of mean HFH/HB ratio between 18.30 per cent and 15.66 per cent should be considered a physiological age‐related process of the canine lifespan. The use of mean HFH/HB ratio could be considered for quantifying brain atrophy in elderly dogs.
Early life microbial exposure shapes subsequent animal health
Authors: Marcolla Camila Schultz , Alvarado Carla Sosa , Willing Benjamin Peter
Published: July 2019

Biosecurity standards and farming practices have profoundly changed the way domestic animals interact with the environment and themselves. Farm intensification processes resemble the lifestyle changes that humans underwent post industrialization, which have been linked to the occurrence of immune-mediated and metabolic disorders. Modern rearing practices reduce maternal and offspring interactions, promote changes in diet, restrict animals indoors, and rely on the use of antibiotics and vaccines to maintain animal health. These practices may hinder the proper colonization of the gastrointestinal tract with commensal organisms that co-evolved with livestock species. The gut microbiota aids nutrient digestion, stimulates immune and intestinal development and maturation, and promotes the competitive exclusion of pathogens. Microbial colonization in early life is critical for host metabolic and immune programming, and disruptions of gut microbial community stability can lead to development of metabolic and immune disorders seen at later stages of life. Identifying how farming practices influence microbial composition and the potential effects on host physiology, metabolism, and disease resistance is necessary to guide intervention strategies to promote beneficial microbial–host interactions, and improve animal health and performance.
Electrochemical sensor based on incorporation of gold nanoparticles, ionic liquid crystal, and β-cyclodextrin into carbon paste composite for ultra-sensitive determination of norepinephrine in real samples
Authors: Atta Nada F. , Galal Ahmed , El-Said Dalia M.
Published: July 2019

A novel, reliable electrochemical sensor is fabricated for direct and sensitive determination of norepinephrine (NE) based on gold nanoparticles, ionic liquid crystal, and β-cyclodextrin modified carbon paste electrode, namely AuILCCDCPE. The ionic liquid crystal (ILC) played a key role in improving the current response of electro-oxidation of NE compared with other ionic liquids modified electrodes. The ILC increased the ionic conductivity of the paste and formed noncovalent interactions with both host (CD) and guest (NE) compounds. The solid state structure of the ILC helped in the formation of ordered films in the paste. Furthermore, CD and Au nanoparticles raised the stability and the electrocatalytic ability of the proposed sensor. Under optimized conditions, the fabricated electrochemical sensor showed a good electrochemical response towards NE in human urine in the linear dynamic ranges of 0.05–10 μmol/L and 20–300 μmol/L with a correlation coefficient of 0.999 and detection limit of 3.12 × 10−9mol/L in the low concentration range. The practical analytical performance of the sensor was attained for determination of NE in real samples with satisfied recovery results. This sensor has great ability to be extended for electrochemical applications in assays of other drugs.
“We monitor by living here”: community-driven actualization of a social-ecological monitoring program based in the knowledge of Indigenous harvesters
Authors: Thompson Kim-Ly , Reece Nikkita , Robinson Nicole , Fisher Havana-Jae , Ban Natalie C. , Picard Chris R.
Published: July 2019

Researchers and government agencies are increasingly embracing Indigenous knowledge to inform ecological monitoring. However, there are few detailed accounts of designing monitoring methods based in Indigenous knowledge to meet Indigenous objectives. This research details the design of a program initiated by the Gitga’at First Nation to document the knowledge and observations of their harvesters as a contemporary monitoring initiative. We, Gitga’at and academic researchers, first conducted informal interviews with knowledge holders to gauge interest and to establish community objectives. We then convened community meetings and workshops to design methods to document harvesters’ knowledge and observations. We tested and revised these methods (a post-harvest season interview guide, and a logbook to be completed by harvesters) over the course of two harvest seasons. Semi-structured interviews were more successful than the logbooks in meeting multiple community monitoring objectives. However, we were encouraged by younger participants’ suggestions to develop a digital app based on the logbook to encourage future participation. Our work can serve as a guide to other Indigenous peoples and collaborators who wish to leverage the knowledge of their land and (or) sea users, and the methods we develop are available to adapt to other cultural, social-ecological, and political contexts.
Modal analysis and experimental research on a planetary reducer with small tooth number difference
Authors: Huang Chao , Huang Baiyue , Zhang Yi , Xiao Ke
Published: July 2019

To comprehensively analyze the modal characteristics of the planetary reducer with small tooth number difference, based on shaft–bearing–gear–shell coupling, a finite element modal analysis model was established in ABAQUS. The teeth meshing sites were constrained by binding, bearings were simulated by spring elements, and then the natural frequencies and corresponding vibration modes of the reducer were obtained by applying the Lanczos method. Further, a hammering modal experiment on the reducer was carried out utilizing LMS Test.Lab. The modal data were analyzed using a modal identification method, and the modal frequencies and damping ratios were achieved, also the experimental modal parameters were validated according to the modal assurance criterion. The research results indicate that the lowest-order natural frequency of the reducer is 148.53 Hz, which is much higher than the rotation frequency of the eccentric shaft, double gear, and output gear. Also, the two-stage gear mesh frequencies are away from the natural frequencies, therefore the reducer under normal operating conditions will not cause coupling resonance. This research provides a theoretical basis and experimental reference for the dynamic structure optimization of the planetary reducer.
Ru(II) porphyrins as sensitizers for DSSCs: Axial vs. peripheral carboxylate anchoring group
Authors: Ladomenou Kalliopi , Nikolaou Vasilis , Charalambidis Georgios , Sharma Ganesh D. , Coutsolelos Athanassios G.
Published: July 2019

In this study, two porphyrin chromophores metallated with ruthenium, RuTBP and RuTBPPy, were prepared and studied as sensitizers in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The difference between the two dyes is the position (axial vs. peripheral) of the carboxylic anchoring group. This work examines the impact of this variation towards the optical, electrochemical and photovoltaic performance of DSSCs. The thorough photophysical and photovoltaic measurements indicated that the peripherally substituted sensitizer (RuTBP) presented higher photovoltaic performance compared to RuTBPPy. More specifically, DSSCs sensitized with RuTBP and RuTBPPy displayed an overall power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 5.12% and 4.08%, respectively. The higher PCE value of the DSSC sensitized with RuTBP is mainly attributed to the enhancement of [Formula: see text] and FF values. These factors were enhanced due to the efficient dye regeneration process, the suppression of back-charge recombination reactions and the longer electron lifetimes as evidenced from the electrochemical impedance spectra.
Influence of Axial Magnetic Field on Swirling Flow and Vortex Breakdown Zones in a Cylindrical Cavity with a Rotating Lid
Authors: Dash Subas Chandra , Singh Navtej
Published: July 2019

In this study, behavior of swirling flow under the influence of axial magnetic field in a cylindrical container with a top rotating disk has been probed. The flow is assumed to be axisymmetric for the parameters considered. The domain consists of a cylindrical cavity packed with viscous and electrically conducting metallic liquid. The qualitative effect of magnetic field is manifested in terms of torque coefficient evaluated on the rotating lid as well as the fixed end wall. Effects of the magnetic field on the zones of vortex breakdown, in the Aspect ratio (AR), Reynolds number (Re) plane, for the top rotating lid with all sides electrically insulated have been developed. Moreover, it is found that one can control the behavior of flow with help of a proper choice of the electric conducting wall.
2-domination dot-stable and dot-critical graphs
Authors: Attalah Karima , Chellali Mustapha
Published: July 2019

A set [Formula: see text] of vertices in a graph [Formula: see text] is a [Formula: see text]-dominating set of [Formula: see text] if every vertex of [Formula: see text] is adjacent to at least two vertices in [Formula: see text] The [Formula: see text]-domination number is the minimum cardinality of a [Formula: see text]-dominating set of [Formula: see text]. A graph is [Formula: see text]-domination dot-stable if the contraction of any arbitrary edge has no effect on the [Formula: see text]-domination number. On the other hand, a graph is [Formula: see text]-domination dot-critical if the contraction of any arbitrary edge decreases the [Formula: see text]-domination number. We present some properties of these graphs and we provide a characterization of all trees that are [Formula: see text]-domination dot-stable or [Formula: see text]-domination dot-critical.
Notes from the Pier No. 1(3)
Authors: Huang Chihlien
Published: July 2019

Based on the two previous notes, this paper argues that if China’s national as well as international development programs are actually a configuration of inter-connectivity, then the Shanghai Communique (February, 1972) can be taken as a midway station between the Russia Aid Programs (1950s), the Bandung Declaration (1956) and the Pan American Highway and BRI-OBOR could be taken as a continental inter-connectivity. From there on, an Arctic OBOR would result in a super inter-hemispheric OBOR, thus bringing human civilizations to move from “#1.0” to “#2.0” and on to their “#3.0 Paradigm shift”.

In addition to big nations such as China, EU, Russia, and the US playing their leading roles, many other nations along the road would be able to participate in the process and share its rewards.
Attitude, but not self-evaluated knowledge, correlates with academic performance in physiology in Thai medical students
Authors: Kwankajonwong Nachchakorn , Ongprakobkul Chuthamas , Qureshi Shaun Peter , Watanatada Pasakorn , Thanprasertsuk Sekh , Bongsebandhu-phubhakdi Saknan
Published: July 2019

Positive attitude and self-evaluation are necessary for medical students and doctors. To explore how best to integrate physiology teaching in our Thai medical curriculum, we investigated relationships between student’s academic performance, their attitude, self-evaluated knowledge, and proportion of physiology taught in an organ-system integrated block. We organized 13 physiology laboratory classes, during which students self-rated attitude and knowledge. Academic performance was measured by formative and summative assessments. One hundred thirty-six participants were categorized into most proactive (Most PA), more proactive (More PA), less proactive (Less PA), and least proactive (Least PA) attitude groups by self-preparation questionnaire. Eighty participants were categorized into high (HighE), moderate (ModerateE), and low (LowE) self-evaluation rating groups. Mean formatives score in the Most PA group was significantly higher than in the other PA groups ( P = 0.003, P = 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively). Mean summative score in the Most PA group was significantly higher than the Less PA and the Least PA groups ( P = 0.017 and P = 0.015 respectively). There was no significant difference in mean assessment scores among HighE, ModerateE, and LowE groups. Proportion of teaching time dedicated to physiology positively correlated with student attitude ( r = 0.84, P = 0.001) and negatively correlated with self-evaluation rating ( r = −0.73, P = 0.007). Thai medical students may benefit from a proactive attitude to studying physiology, contrasting with traditional didactic expectations of Thai education. Proportion of teaching time dedicated to physiology does not influence academic performance; therefore, future adjustments to curriculum integration may incorporate classes that facilitate self-directed learning. Future study should explore other influences on learning and assessment performance.
Inclusive practices for diverse student populations: Experimental Biology 2017
Authors: Johnson Kathryn M. S. , Briggs Amy , Hawn Christine , Mantina Namoonga , Woods Brett C.
Published: July 2019

As student populations become more diverse, it is essential for educators, administrators, and institutions to implement practices that ensure the success of all students. This is particularly true in the sciences, as students from traditionally underrepresented populations in STEM compose an increasingly greater proportion of the national student demographic. The Teaching Section of the American Physiological Society sponsored a symposium, “Inclusive Practices for Diverse Student Populations,” at 2017 Experimental Biology in Chicago, IL, introducing practices that promote inclusion in diverse student populations in STEM. The symposium began with an introduction to quantitative and qualitative assessment strategies of equity and inclusion. The second half of the symposium discussed structural bias and effective inclusive practices.
e-TEP Retromuscular Repair for Recurrent Incisional Hernias: Report of Three Cases
Authors: Shakya Vikal Chandra , Byanjankar Bikram , Pandit Rabin , Pangeni Anang , Shrestha Anir Ram Moh
Published: July 2019

Introduction. Recurrent incisional hernias are difficult to treat. There are many factors involved in the recurrence, and due to extensive dissections, the planes are fused with adhesions, and we may need a new plane for dissection and placement of meshes. Case Report. We report here three cases of recurrent incisional hernias which were dealt by a relatively new method to laparoscopy: the enhanced view totally extraperitoneal repair (e-TEP) retromuscular technique. There were three patients: one after an open onlay repair of lower midline incision, another after an onlay mesh repair of a subcostal incision for open cholecystectomy followed by an intraperitoneal onlay mesh hernioplasty (IPOM) repair, and another after IPOM repair of epigastric hernia. They were treated with the abovementioned technique with satisfying short-term results. Conclusion. The e-TEP technique is a relatively new method of providing minimal access surgery to these patients utilizing the previously unaccessed retromuscular (Rives and/or preperitoneal) space for the repair of these recurrent incisional hernias.
High Proliferative Placenta-Derived Multipotent Cells Express Cytokeratin 7 at Low Level
Authors: Shablii V. , Kuchma M. , Svitina H. , Skrypkina I. , Areshkov P. , Kyryk V. , Bukreieva T. , Nikulina V. , Shablii Iu. , Lobyntseva G.
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate the immunophenotypes and gene expression profile of high proliferative placenta-derived multipotent cells (PDMCs) population at different stages of culture. We demonstrated that the colonies resulting from single cells were either positive or negative for CK7, whereas only PDMC clones with weak CK7 expression (CK7low-clones) were highly proliferative. Interestingly, vimentin positive (Vim+) placental stromal mesenchymal cells did not express CK7 in situ, but double CK7+Vim+ cells detection in tissue explants and explants outgrowth indicated CK7 inducible expression in vitro. PCNA presence in CK7+Vim+ cells during placental explants culturing confirmed belonging of these cells to proliferative subpopulation. Transcription factors CDX2 and EOMES were expressed in both CK7low-clones and subset of stromal mesenchymal cells of first-trimester placental tissue in situ. Meanwhile, CK7low -clones and stromal mesenchymal cells of full-term placental tissue in situ expressed ERG heterogeneously. SPP1, COL2A1, and PPARG2 mesodermal-related genes expression by CK7low-clones additionally confirms their mesenchymal origin. Inherent stem cell-related gene expression (IFTM3, POU5F1, and VASA) in CK7low-clones might indicate their enrichment for progenitors. Finally, in CK7low-clones we observed expression of such trophoblast-associated genes as CGB types I and II, fusogenic ERVW-1, GCM1, and GATA3. Thus, our results indicate that PDMCs acquired the representative immunophenotype signature under culture conditions.
Modification of Poly(vinyl chloride) by N-Phenyl Itaconimides for the Improvement of Its Thermal Stability
Authors: Elsharif Asma M. , Al-Ghamdi Azza A. , Abdel-Naby Abir S.
Published: July 2019

Poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) is modified by N-phenyl itaconimide derivatives (N-(RPh)IM) as modifying agents or graft comonomers. The resulting modified polymers or graft copolymers were characterized using FTIR and UV/Vis spectrophotometry. The thermal properties of the modified polymers were investigated using thermogravimetry (TGA), which revealed that the synthesized polymers exhibited high thermal stability, as shown from the value of their initial decomposition temperatures and the percentage of weight loss at high temperatures. The polymer modified by 4-bromo itaconimide exhibited the most thermal stability. A mechanism for the modification reaction and the graft copolymerization of PVC was suggested.
IgG4-Related Ophthalmic Disease Presenting as Meningitis and Panuveitis
Authors: Mavrommatis Maria A. , Avila Sarah A. , France Richard
Published: July 2019

Purpose. We report an uncommon case of immunoglobulin gamma 4-related ophthalmic disease (IgG4-ROD) presenting as meningitis and panuveitis. Observations. A 35-year-old male with no prior ophthalmic history presented with headaches, altered mental status, and fever of unknown origin. A lumbar puncture (LP) revealed an elevated white count with lymphocytic predominance, confirming a suspected meningitis. After an extensive work-up, he was discharged on oral acyclovir to cover for presumed aseptic meningitis. The patient initially improved, however, bilateral eye pain, redness, and photophobia 2 weeks after discharge prompted his first visit to the ophthalmology clinic. Exam at that time was consistent with bilateral anterior uveitis for which he was given topical prednisolone and cyclopentolate. In addition to the preceding work-up, quantitative immunoglobulin serology including IgG4 levels was added. At follow-up, he was found to have increased ocular inflammation with vitreitis, nerve head edema, and subclinical macular thickening. Visual acuity (VA) had decreased in both eyes. Serology titers for IgG had resulted in a significant elevation in IgG subclass 4 (IgG4). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) confirmed posterior retinal involvement. The patient was diagnosed with presumed bilateral panuveitis secondary to IgG4-ROD. Conclusions and Importance. IgG4-RD can be a serious condition that requires careful consideration and intuition to diagnose. This report serves to encourage ophthalmologists to consider IgG4-ROD in cases of idiopathic systemic inflammation with ophthalmic involvement.
Effects of Xylanase Pretreatment on the Quality of Refiner Mechanical Mulberry Branch Fibers
Authors: Tao Wenjuan , Guo Lifang , Meng Aojie , Wang Lizhen , Ren Hao , Zhai Huamin
Published: July 2019

We performed xylanase pretreatment prior to mechanical refining in the production of mulberry branch fibers, with the objective of saving energy and studying the effects of such pretreatment on the quality of the fibers. To determine the effects of the enzyme action, we analyzed the energy required for refining, related yield, and the dimension, deformation, and morphology of the fibers. We found that, with the xylanase pretreatment, the refining energy was reduced by 4%, with the yield of fibers being maintained at >85%. In addition, the fiber bundles were defibered further, resulting in reduced average length of the fiber. Furthermore, the fiber widths increased because of the improved swelling effect of the xylanase pretreatment. However, in some instances, the fine elements were reduced. With a low enzyme dosage, the fiber coarseness decreased remarkably and, because of the swelling and softening effects of the xylanase pretreatment on the mulberry branches, the fiber kink ratios and curl were reduced. Additionally, the mulberry branch tissue was loosened, facilitating fiber separation. In view of these findings, the biomechanical process could be a potentially green and efficient process for the manufacturing of mulberry branch fibers.
Osteosarcomatous Divergence in Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma Presenting as a Colonic Mass
Authors: Gordhandas Jeenal , Lin Grace , Tipps Ann M. P. , Zare Somaye Y.
Published: July 2019

Dedifferentiated liposarcomas most commonly arise in the retroperitoneum, accounting for 10% of liposarcomas. Heterologous differentiation occurs in 5-10% of dedifferentiated liposarcomas; however, divergent osteosarcomatous differentiation is rare. We report a rare case of initial presentation of dedifferentiated liposarcoma with osteosarcomatous component as a colonic mass in a 72-year-old man. The tumor is mainly composed of bony trabeculae with intervening highly atypical cells and adjacent high-grade mesenchymal nonlipogenic tumor, as well as areas of well-differentiated liposarcoma. Immunohistochemical studies showed diffuse positivity for SATB2 in the atypical cells and fluorescence in situ hybridization revealed high-level amplification of MDM2 gene, supporting the diagnosis of well-differentiated and dedifferentiated liposarcoma with heterologous osteosarcomatous differentiation.
STC2 Is a Potential Prognostic Biomarker for Pancreatic Cancer and Promotes Migration and Invasion by Inducing Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Lin Chen , Sun Lina , Huang Shenglei , Weng Xiangqun , Wu Zhixian
Published: July 2019

Aberrant expression of stanniocalcin 2 (STC2) is implicated in cancer development. STC2 acts as a tumor promoter to drive some cancers. However, its contribution to the development of pancreatic cancer remains unclear. This study showed that the expression of STC2 was significantly upregulated in pancreatic cancer tissues. Moreover, its expression was positively correlated with tumor size and lymph node metastasis and negatively correlated with 5-year survival rate of pancreatic cancer patients. Additionally, the expression levels of STC2 were a novel biomarker for predicting overall survival rate after surgery. Furthermore, overexpression of STC2 could promote the proliferation, migration, and invasion of pancreatic cancer cell lines, while knocking down of STC2 led to antiproliferation and antimetastasis activities. Further mechanistic investigations revealed that the expression of STC2 could significantly promote the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in pancreatic cancer cells. These data indicated that the overexpression of STC2 in pancreatic cancer contributes to the metastasis through the promotion of EMT, suggesting that STC2 is a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer.
APE1 Upregulates MMP-14 via Redox-Sensitive ARF6-Mediated Recycling to Promote Cell Invasion of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lu Heng , Bhat Ajaz A. , Peng Dunfa , Chen Zheng , Zhu Shoumin , Hong Jun , Maacha Selma , Yan Jin , Robbins David J. , Washington M. Kay , Belkhiri Abbes , El-Rifai Wael
Published: July 2019

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is an aggressive malignancy with poor clinical outcome. The incidence of EAC has been rising rapidly in the past three decades. Here, we showed that apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease (APE1) is overexpressed in EAC cell lines, and patients' samples of dysplasia and EAC. Downregulation of APE1 or inhibition of its redox function significantly repressed invasion. Overexpression of a redox-defective mutant, C65A, abrogated the proinvasive phenotype of APE1. APE1 regulated invasion via upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase 14 (MMP-14), which subsequently activated MMP-2, leading to degradation of the extracellular matrix in a redox-dependent manner. Downregulation of APE1 or inhibition of its redox function decreased the rate of endocytosis and recycling of MMP-14 protein. APE1 interacted with ARF6, a key regulator of MMP-14 recycling, which maintained ARF6 activity in an APE1-redox–dependent manner, promoting its ability to regulate MMP-14 recycling to the cell surface. In summary, these findings identify a novel redox-sensitive APE1–ARF6–MMP-14 signaling axis that mediates cellular invasion in esophageal carcinogenesis.

Significance:

This study demonstrates the association between oxidative stress and the development and metastatic behavior of esophageal adenocarcinoma.