bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exogenous Alginate Protects Staphylococcus aureus from Killing by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Price Courtney E. , Brown Dustin G. , Limoli Dominique H. , Phelan Vanessa V. , O’Toole George A.
Published: November 2019

CF patients are chronically infected by polymicrobial communities. The two dominant bacterial pathogens that infect the lungs of CF patients are
P. aeruginosa
and
S. aureus
, with ∼30% of patients coinfected by both species. Such coinfected individuals have worse outcomes than monoinfected patients, and both species persist within the same physical space. A variety of host and environmental factors have been demonstrated to promote
P. aeruginosa
-
S. aureus
coexistence, despite evidence that
P. aeruginosa
kills
S. aureus
when these organisms are cocultured
in vitro
. Thus, a better understanding of
P. aeruginosa
-
S. aureus
interactions, particularly mechanisms by which these microorganisms are able to coexist in proximal physical space, will lead to better-informed treatments for chronic polymicrobial infections.
Boosting with AIDSVAX B/E Enhances Env Constant Region 1 and 2 Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity Breadth and Potency
Authors: Easterhoff David , Pollara Justin , Luo Kan , Tolbert William D. , Young Brianna , Mielke Dieter , Jha Shalini , O’Connell Robert J. , Vasan Sandhya , Kim Jerome , Michael Nelson L. , Excler Jean-Louis , Robb Merlin L. , Rerks-Ngarm Supachai , Kaewkungwal Jaranit , Pitisuttithum Punnee , Nitayaphan Sorachai , Sinangil Faruk , Tartaglia James , Phogat Sanjay , Kepler Thomas B. , Alam S. Munir , Wiehe Kevin , Saunders Kevin O. , Montefiori David C. , Tomaras Georgia D. , Moody M. Anthony , Pazgier Marzena , Haynes Barton F. , Ferrari Guido
Published: November 2019

Over one million people become infected with HIV-1 each year, making the development of an efficacious HIV-1 vaccine an important unmet medical need. The RV144 human HIV-1 vaccine regimen is the only HIV-1 clinical trial to date to demonstrate vaccine efficacy. An area of focus has been on identifying ways by which to improve upon RV144 vaccine efficacy. The RV305 HIV-1 vaccine regimen was a follow-up boost of RV144 vaccine recipients that occurred 6 to 8 years after the conclusion of RV144. Our study focused on the effect of delayed boosting in humans on the vaccine-induced Env constant region 1 and 2 (C1C2)-specific antibody repertoire. It was found that boosting with an HIV-1 Env vaccine increased C1C2-specific antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity potency and breadth.
Efficacy of colistimethate sodium as local application in necrotising fasciitis
Authors: Murali Sreedutt , Pillai Anoop V , Ramachandran Riju
Published: November 2019

Necrotising fasciitis (NF) is a rapidly progressive severe soft tissue infection of the deep fascia resulting in the destruction of overlying subcutaneous tissue and skin. We report the case of NF of the lower limb with a poor prognosis due to multidrug-resistant (MDR)Klebsiella pneumoniae(K.pneumoniae) sensitive only to colistin. In view of the worsening condition of the wound, risk of deterioration of renal function and economic constraints, it was decided to start on colistin therapy locally by colistimethate sodium (CMS). The patient responded well to the treatment and got clinically better. Subsequent culture sent for post-treatment showed no growth of the organism. The wound healed with regular dressings by 8 weeks. This was found to be a very cost-effective treatment modality. Local use of CMS was found to be a novel method of achieving infection-free wound especially against MDRK.pneumoniae.
Proteinase 3 (PR3)-antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitic neuropathy in diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis: a rare duo
Authors: Radwan Yasser , Berini Sarah , Ernste Floranne , Makol Ashima
Published: November 2019

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is characterised by non-inflammatory vasculopathy, autoimmunity and widespread fibrosis. While the presence of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCAs) has been reported in SSc, their association with ANCA-associated vasculitis is exceedingly rare. Myeloperoxidase ANCA is more common than proteinase-3 ANCA, and glomerulonephritis is the most common clinical presentation of ANCA-associated vasculitis in SSc. ANCAs have been associated with the adverse disease outcomes in SSc, including higher mortality per recent reports. A 65-year-old man with diffuse cutaneous SSc for 6 years presented with new-onset peripheral neuropathy. Workup revealed a positive proteinase-3 and cytoplasmic ANCA, and histopathology confirmed an inflammatory vasculitic neuropathy. The patient was successfully treated with rituximab. Our case highlights the importance of checking ANCA in SSc at baseline, given the risk of disease-related complications, even years later. Tissue biopsy is often warranted for confirmation of vasculitis and prompt treatment can optimise long-term outcomes.
Development of a national Department of Veterans Affairs mortality risk prediction model among patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Koola Jejo David , Ho Samuel , Chen Guanhua , Perkins Amy M , Cao Aize , Davis Sharon E , Matheny Michael E
Published: November 2019

Objective

Cirrhotic patients are at high hospitalisation risk with subsequent high mortality. Current risk prediction models have varied performances with methodological room for improvement. We used current analytical techniques using automatically extractable variables from the electronic health record (EHR) to develop and validate a posthospitalisation mortality risk score for cirrhotic patients and compared performance with the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), model for end-stage liver disease with sodium (MELD-Na), and the CLIF Consortium Acute Decompensation (CLIF-C AD) models.

Design

We analysed a retrospective cohort of 73 976 patients comprising 247 650 hospitalisations between 2006 and 2013 at any of 123 Department of Veterans Affairs hospitals. Using 45 predictor variables, we built a time-dependent Cox proportional hazards model with all-cause mortality as the outcome. We compared performance to the three extant models and reported discrimination and calibration using bootstrapping. Furthermore, we analysed differential utility using the net reclassification index (NRI).

Results

The C-statistic for the final model was 0.863, representing a significant improvement over the MELD, MELD-Na, and the CLIF-C AD, which had C-statistics of 0.655, 0.675, and 0.679, respectively. Multiple risk factors were significant in our model, including variables reflecting disease severity and haemodynamic compromise. The NRI showed a 24% improvement in predicting survival of low-risk patients and a 30% improvement in predicting death of high-risk patients.

Conclusion

We developed a more accurate mortality risk prediction score using variables automatically extractable from an EHR that may be used to risk stratify patients with cirrhosis for targeted postdischarge management.
Application of human factors to improve usability of clinical decision support for diagnostic decision-making: a scenario-based simulation study
Authors: Carayon Pascale , Hoonakker Peter , Hundt Ann Schoofs , Salwei Megan , Wiegmann Douglas , Brown Roger L , Kleinschmidt Peter , Novak Clair , Pulia Michael , Wang Yudi , Wirkus Emily , Patterson Brian
Published: November 2019

Objective

In this study, we used human factors (HF) methods and principles to design a clinical decision support (CDS) that provides cognitive support to the pulmonary embolism (PE) diagnostic decision-making process in the emergency department. We hypothesised that the application of HF methods and principles will produce a more usable CDS that improves PE diagnostic decision-making, in particular decision about appropriate clinical pathway.

Materials and methods

We conducted a scenario-based simulation study to compare a HF-based CDS (the so-called CDS for PE diagnosis (PE-Dx CDS)) with a web-based CDS (MDCalc); 32 emergency physicians performed various tasks using both CDS. PE-Dx integrated HF design principles such as automating information acquisition and analysis, and minimising workload. We assessed all three dimensions of usability using both objective and subjective measures: effectiveness (eg, appropriate decision regarding the PE diagnostic pathway), efficiency (eg, time spent, perceived workload) and satisfaction (perceived usability of CDS).

Results

Emergency physicians made more appropriate diagnostic decisions (94% with PE-Dx; 84% with web-based CDS; p<0.01) and performed experimental tasks faster with the PE-Dx CDS (on average 96 s per scenario with PE-Dx; 117 s with web-based CDS; p<0.001). They also reported lower workload (p<0.001) and higher satisfaction (p<0.001) with PE-Dx.

Conclusions

This simulation study shows that HF methods and principles can improve usability of CDS and diagnostic decision-making. Aspects of the HF-based CDS that provided cognitive support to emergency physicians and improved diagnostic performance included automation of information acquisition (eg, auto-populating risk scoring algorithms), minimisation of workload and support of decision selection (eg, recommending a clinical pathway). These HF design principles can be applied to the design of other CDS technologies to improve diagnostic safety.
Using standardised patients to assess the quality of medical records: an application and evidence from rural China
Authors: Wu Yuju , Zhou Huan , Ma Xiao , Shi Yaojiang , Xue Hao , Zhou Chengchao , Yi Hongmei , Medina Alexis , Li Jason , Sylvia Sean
Published: November 2019

Background

Medical records play a fundamental role in healthcare delivery, quality assessment and improvement. However, there is little objective evidence on the quality of medical records in low and middle-income countries.

Objective

To provide an unbiased assessment of the quality of medical records for outpatient visits to rural facilities in China.

Methods

A sample of 207 township health facilities across three provinces of China were enrolled. Unannounced standardised patients (SPs) presented to providers following standardised scripts. Three weeks later, investigators returned to collect medical records from each facility. Audio recordings of clinical interactions were then used to evaluate completeness and accuracy of available medical records.

Results

Medical records were located for 210 out of 620 SP visits (33.8%). Of those located, more than 80% contained basic patient information and drug treatment when mentioned in visits, but only 57.6% recorded diagnoses. The most incompletely recorded category of information was patient symptoms (74.3% unrecorded), followed by non-drug treatments (65.2% unrecorded). Most of the recorded information was accurate, but accuracy fell below 80% for some items. The keeping of any medical records was positively correlated with the provider’s income (β 0.05, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.09). Providers at hospitals with prescription review were less likely to record completely (β −0.87, 95% CI −1.68 to 0.06). Significant variation by disease type was also found in keeping of any medical record and completeness.

Conclusion

Despite the importance of medical records for health system functioning, many rural facilities have yet to implement systems for maintaining patient records, and records are often incomplete when they exist. Prescription review tied to performance evaluation should be implemented with caution as it may create disincentives for record keeping. Interventions to improve record keeping and management are needed.
A novel faecalLachnoclostridiummarker for the non-invasive diagnosis of colorectal adenoma and cancer
Authors: Liang Jessie Qiaoyi , Li Tong , Nakatsu Geicho , Chen Ying-Xuan , Yau Tung On , Chu Eagle , Wong Sunny , Szeto Chun Ho , Ng Siew C , Chan Francis K L , Fang Jing-Yuan , Sung Joseph J Y , Yu Jun
Published: November 2019

Objective

There is a need for early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) at precancerous-stage adenoma. Here, we identified novel faecal bacterial markers for diagnosing adenoma.

Design

This study included 1012 subjects (274 CRC, 353 adenoma and 385 controls) from two independent Asian groups. Candidate markers were identified by metagenomics and validated by targeted quantitative PCR.

Results

Metagenomic analysis identified ‘m3’ from aLachnoclostridiumsp.,Fusobacterium nucleatum(Fn) andClostridium hathewayi(Ch) to be significantly enriched in adenoma. Faecalm3andFnwere significantly increased from normal to adenoma to CRC (p<0.0001, linear trend by one-way ANOVA) in group I (n=698), which was further confirmed in group II (n=313; p<0.0001). Faecalm3may perform better thanFnin distinguishing adenoma from controls (areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROCs)m3=0.675 vsFn=0.620, p=0.09), whileFnperformed better in diagnosing CRC (AUROCsFn=0.862 vsm3=0.741, p<0.0001). At 78.5% specificity,m3andFnshowed sensitivities of 48.3% and 33.8% for adenoma, and 62.1% and 77.8% for CRC, respectively. In a subgroup tested with faecal immunochemical test (FIT; n=642),m3performed better than FIT in detecting adenoma (sensitivities for non-advanced and advanced adenomas of 44.2% and 50.8% bym3(specificity=79.6%) vs 0% and 16.1% by FIT (specificity=98.5%)). Combining with FIT improved sensitivity ofm3for advanced adenoma to 56.8%. The combination ofm3withFn,Ch,Bacteroides clarusand FIT performed best for diagnosing CRC (specificity=81.2% and sensitivity=93.8%).

Conclusion

This study identifies a novel bacterial markerm3for the non-invasive diagnosis of colorectal adenoma.
Consent in children’s intensive care: the voices of the parents of critically ill children and those caring for them
Authors: Aubugeau-Williams Phoebe , Brierley Joe
Published: November 2019

Despite its invasive nature, specific consent for general anaesthesia is rarely sought—rather consent processes for associated procedures include explanation of risk/benefits. In adult intensive care, because no one can consent to treatments provided to incapacitated adults, standardised consent processes have not developed. In paediatric intensive care, despite the ready availability of those who can provide consent, no tradition of seeking it exists, arguably due to the specialty’s evolution from anaesthesia and adult intensive care. With the current Montgomery-related focus on consent, this seems untenable. We undertook a qualitative study in a specialist children’s hospital colocated paediatric/neonatal intensive care (same medical team) in which parental acceptance of admission and entailed procedures is considered implied by virtue of that admission. Semistructured interviews were carried out with both staff and parents to investigate their views about consent, the current system and a proposedblanket consent system, in which parents actively consent at admission to routine procedures. Divergent views emerged: staff were worried that requiring consent at admission might prove a further emotional burden, whereas parents found providing consent a way of coping, feeling empowered and maintaining control. Inconsistencies were found in the way consent is obtained for your routine procedures. Practice does seem inconsistent with contemporary consent standards for medical intervention. Our findings support the introduction of a blanket consent system at admission together with ongoing bedside dialogue to ensure continuing consent. Both parents and staff expressed concern about avoiding possible harmful delays to children due to parental emotional overload and language difficulties.
Inflationary perturbation spectra at next-to-leading slow-roll order in effective field theory of inflation
Authors: Ding Guang-Hua , Qiao Jin , Wu Qiang , Zhu Tao , Wang Anzhong
Published: November 2019

The effective field theory (EFT) of inflation provides an essential picture to explore the effects of the unknown high energy physics in the single scalar field inflation models. For a generic EFT of inflation, possible high energy corrections to simple slow-roll inflation can modify both the propagating speed and dispersion relations of the cosmological scalar and tensor perturbations. With the arrival of the era of precision cosmology, it is expected that these high energy corrections become more important and have to be taken into account in the analysis with future precise observational data. In this paper we study the observational predictions of the EFT of inflation by using the third-order uniform asymptotic approximation method. We calculate explicitly the primordial power spectra, spectral indices, running of the spectral indices for both scalar and tensor perturbations, and the ratio between tensor and scalar spectra. These expressions are all written in terms of the Hubble flow parameters and the flow of four new slow-roll parameters and expanded up to the next-to-leading order in the slow-roll expansions so they represent the most accurate results obtained so far in the literature. The flow of the four new slow-roll parameters, which arise from the four new operators introduced in the action of the EFT of inflation, can affect the primordial perturbation spectra at the leading-order and the corresponding spectral indices at the next-to-leading order.
Synthesis and characterization of 5-(4-carboxyphenylspermine)-10,15,20-triphenylporphyrin
Authors: Gangemi Chiara M.A. , Randazzo Rosalba , Gaeta Massimiliano , Fortuna Cosimo G. , Fragalà Maria E. , Purrello Roberto , D’Urso Alessandro
Published: November 2019

We synthetized and characterized a mono spermine porphyrin derivative by NMR, UV-vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. The photophysical properties and the protonation equilibria of 5-(4-carboxyphenylspermine)-10,15,20-triphenylporphyrin have been investigated, showing that porphyrin does not aggregate in acidic solutions, differently from what occurs as soon as the core of the porphyrin is deprotonated. These aggregation processes have been detected by the rising of new fluorescence band and a significant splitting of the Soret band.
New peripherally substituted lutetium mono and bis phthalocyanines: Synthesis and comparative photophysical and photochemical properties
Authors: Kocaağa Nagihan , Kutlu Öznur Dülger , Erdoğmuş Ali
Published: November 2019

In this study, the synthesis and characterization of mono-(phthalocyaninato) lutetium(III) (1-Cl and 1-F) [Lu[Formula: see text](AcO)(Pc)] (Pc [Formula: see text] phthalocyaninato, AcO [Formula: see text] acetate) and bis-(phthalocyaninato) lutetium(III) (2-Cl and 2-Br) [Lu[Formula: see text]Pc[Formula: see text]] bearing halogenated (F, Cl and Br) phenoxy–phenoxy groups are described and verified by IR, [Formula: see text]H-NMR, UV-vis and mass spectrometry. Photochemical and photophysical properties of 1-F, 1-Cl 2-Cl and 2-Br in DMSO are also presented. A comparison between photophysical and photochemical parameters of mono and bis derivatives showed that mono phthalocyanines are better photosensitizers than bis phthalocyanines. Photophysical and photochemical properties of phthalocyanines are very useful for photodynamic therapy applications. Singlet oxygen quantum yields [Formula: see text] give an indication of the potential of the complexes as photosensitizers in photodynamic therapy applications. The chloro, fluoro, bromo-phenoxy–phenoxy substituted mono-(phthalocyaninato) lutetium(III) complexes (1-Cl and 1-F) gave good singlet oxygen quantum yields (from 0.86 to 0.80) in DMSO. Thus, these complexes show potential as Type II photosensitizers for PDT of cancer.
Misinformation in Social Media
Authors: Wu Liang , Morstatter Fred , Carley Kathleen M. , Liu Huan
Published: November 2019

The widespread dissemination of misinformation in social media has recently received a lot of attention in academia. While the problem of misinformation in social media has been intensively studied, there are seemingly different definitions for the same problem, and inconsistent results in different studies. In this survey, we aim to consolidate the observations, and investigate how an optimal method can be selected given specific conditions and contexts. To this end, we first introduce a definition for misinformation in social media and we examine the difference between misinformation detection and classic supervised learning. Second, we describe the diffusion of misinformation and introduce how spreaders propagate misinformation in social networks. Third, we explain characteristics of individual methods of misinformation detection, and provide commentary on their advantages and pitfalls. By reflecting applicability of different methods, we hope to enable the intensive research in this area to be conveniently reused in real-world applications and open up potential directions for future studies.
Modulation of alpha waves in sensorimotor cortical networks during self-motion perception evoked by different visual-vestibular conflicts
Authors: Harquel Sylvain , Guerraz Michel , Barraud Pierre-Alain , Cian Corinne
Published: November 2019

Visually induced illusion of self-motion (vection) has been used as a tool to address neural correlates of visual-vestibular interaction. The extent to which vestibular cortical areas are deactivated during vection varies from one study to another. The main question in this study is whether such deactivation depends on the visual-vestibular conflict induced by visual motion. A visual motion about the line of sight (roll motion) induces a visual-canal conflict in upright and supine observers. An additional visual-otolith conflict arises in the upright position only, with the graviceptive inputs indicating that the head is stationary. A 96-channel electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded in 21 participants exposed to roll motion in seated and supine positions. Meanwhile, perceptual state of self-motion was recorded. Results showed a transient decrease in the cortical sensorimotor networks’ alpha activity at the onset of vection whatever the participant’s position, and therefore the visual-vestibular conflict. During vection, an increase in alpha activity over parieto-occipital areas was observed in the upright condition, that is, in a condition of visual-otolith conflict. The modulation of alpha activity may be predictive of the illusion of self-motion but also may reflect the level of inhibition in the sensorimotor networks needed to reduce potential interference from vestibular conflicting inputs.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY For the first time, we explored the neural correlates of different visuo-vestibular conflicts induced by visual motion using EEG. Our study highlighted a neuronal signature for illusory self-motion (vection) in the sensorimotor networks. Strong alpha activity may predict successful vection but also reflects the level of inhibition of sensorimotor networks needed to reduce potential interfering vestibular inputs. These findings would be of prime importance for simulator and virtual reality systems that induce vection.
One-, Two-, and Three-Parameter Isotherms, Kinetics, and Thermodynamic Evaluation of Co(II) Removal from Aqueous Solution Using Dead Neem Leaves
Authors: Tsamo Cornelius , Paltahe Abba , Fotio Daniel , Vincent Tore Atangana , Sales Wassansa Francois
Published: November 2019

Water pollution by heavy metals like Co(II) is particularly of concern because of their persistence in the environment, toxicity, and ability to bioaccumulate in organisms. In this study, the influence of contact time at three initial concentration, pH, adsorbent dose, temperature, and kinetics, thermodynamics, and one-, two-, and three-parameter isotherm modeling of the adsorption of Co(II) on neem leaves (DNL) was investigated. The adsorbent was characterized using FTIR, TGA-DSC, EDX, and nitrogen adsorption-desorption. DNL is composed of many Co(II) surface-binding groups and a BET surface area of 0.2783 m2/g dominated by meso- and macropores. Equilibrium was attained in 10 minutes for the three concentrations with a removal efficiency of 85–97%. ∆G° of −5.424 to −6.068 KJ/mol at 25 to 60°C, respectively, indicated spontaneous adsorption with increasing temperature. D-R adsorption energies of 0.649 to 2.433 KJ/mol revealed physical adsorption. Maximum adsorption capacity of 9.201–523.900 mg/g was obtained by Freundlich and Jovanovic isotherms. Adsorption was very favourable as evident by the high Kiselev equilibrium constant (11.652–172.78 L/mg) and very lowRLvalues of 0.001–0.026. Adsorption occurred by repulsive mechanism as indicated by Fowler–Guggenheim and Hill–de Boer negative interaction energies (−16.182 to −90.163 and −111.102 to −3328.86 KJmol−1,respectively), confirming maximum Co(II) adsorption at pH 3. Results can be used in the design of an efficient adsorption system using neem leaves which is very efficient in removing low and high levels of heavy metals like cobalt ions from wastewater.
Hydrodynamic Analysis of Partially Filled Liquid Tanks Subject to 3D Vehicular Manoeuvring
Authors: Han Mengmeng , Dai Jian , Wang C. M. , Ang K. K.
Published: November 2019

This paper is concerned with liquid sloshing in a partially filled container due to 3‐dimensional vehicle motion. The liquid sloshing is described by a set of linear modal equations derived from the potential flow theory, which can be applied to liquid sloshing induced by arbitrary combination of lateral, longitudinal, and rotational excitations. The sloshing force and moment are expressed with a set of hydrodynamic coefficients that are determined by the linear velocity potential. These coefficients can be precalculated and incorporated into the motion equations of the vehicle system so that a fully coupled vehicle‐sloshing model is available. In addition, we propose an approach to calculate the hydrodynamic coefficients using the outputs of commercial frequency‐domain boundary element software in order to maximize the efficiency of modelling and computation. The accuracy of the proposed model is examined by comparison with available CFD and model test data in the literature. The case of a road tanker encountering a road bump during acceleration/braking is investigated. Results show that the tank rotational motion will affect the amplitude and the sloshing force, and neglecting tank rotation may lead to underestimation of the sloshing force magnitude.
Modelling of Permeation Grouting considering Grout Self-Gravity Effect: Theoretical and Experimental Study
Authors: Fu Yanbin , Wang Xiuling , Zhang Sizhan , Yang Yong
Published: November 2019

Self-gravity is one key parameter for behavior characterization of grout permeation and diffusion. This study proposes mathematical models for permeation grouting with consideration of grout self-gravity effect. The models concerning power law, Bingham, and Newtonian grouts are based on the generalized Darcy’s law and spherical diffusion theory. In addition, a prediction model of grout concretion dimension used for Bingham grout was developed. An analysis of the injection pressure distribution law and a comparative evaluation of diffusion radius considering self-gravity effect using established models were conducted subsequently. Moreover, grouting experiments were performed to check and verify the prediction model. The experimental results showed that injection pressure decreases linearly with increase of diffusion radius for the power-law grout, while nonlinear decrease of injection pressure was confirmed in Bingham and Newtonian grouts in this case. Three grouts approximately diffuse in an “ellipsoidal” shape, and it is confirmed that the diffusion radius is closely related to grout self-gravity. The Newtonian grout produces the maximum diffusion radius compared with the other two grouts whether the gravity effects were considered or not. The grout quantity under a smaller water-to-cement w/c ratio exhibits a significant difference and undergoes two increasing stages, whereas the quantity simply tends to be stable after it reaches its maximum in terms of the larger w/c ratios. The constructed dimension prediction model agrees well with the experimental results, which can be helpful for design and assessment of the grouting scheme.
Association Study between BGLAP Gene HindIII Polymorphism and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Development in Ukrainian Population
Authors: Chumachenko Yaroslav D. , Harbuzova Viktoriia Yu. , Ataman Alexander V.
Published: November 2019

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) belongs to the diseases with hereditary predisposition, so both environmental and genetic factors contribute to its development. Recent studies have demonstrated that the skeleton realizes systemic regulation of energy metabolism through the secretion of osteocalcin (OCN). Thus, the association analysis between HindIII single nucleotide polymorphism of OCN gene (BGLAP) promoter region and T2DM development in Ukrainian population was carried out. 153 individuals diagnosed with T2DM and 311 control individuals were enrolled in the study. The genotyping was performed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. The lack of association between BGLAP HindIII single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and T2DM development among Ukrainians was found. Further studies with extended groups of comparison are needed to confirm the obtained results.
Combustion Characteristics of Horizontal Diesel Spray Burner in Low‐Pressure Chamber Based on Multivariate Correlation Analysis
Authors: Xie Kai , Cui Yunjing , Qiu Xingqi , Wang Jianxin
Published: November 2019

At present, the burning problem of low power burners widely used in emergency and stove heating on the plateau has gradually attracted people’s attention. The fuel injection pressure, inlet air flow, air distribution regulation coefficient, and environmental pressure were considered respectively, and then the four factors and six levels of a uniform experimental investigation were conducted in a low‐pressure chamber with adjustable atmospheric pressure. The flame morphology, flame temperature, and NO emission were investigated, and their correlation with each independent variable was analyzed. In addition, burning of droplet swarm was obtained with the simulate numerical calculation by the ANSYS FLUENT. The results showed that the low‐pressure environment had a negative correlation with the maximum width and position of flame, the characteristics of flame uplifted and NO emission. Air volume determines the length of the flame, and atmospheric pressure and fuel injection pressure determine the maximum width of the flame. The shape of the horizontal jet flame in plateau environment is more dependent on the regulation of air volume. In order to reduce NO emission in plateau environment, it may be necessary to maintain a large air supply volume and reduce fuel injection pressure appropriately. At the microscopic level of droplet combustion, change mechanisms of macro flame shape in different sub‐atmosphere were analyzed. The mechanism of flame morphological change in the plateau environment is the increase in droplet burning time and path. The adjustment of flame under sub‐atmospheric pressure through the change of operating parameters is essential to improve the burning rate of droplets.
A New Width Measurement Method of the Stress Relief Zone on Roadway Surrounding Rocks
Authors: Cui Pengfei , Yao Banghua , Liu Yong , Wei Jianping , Wen Zhihui , Li Hui
Published: November 2019

Determining the width of the stress relief zone on roadway surrounding rocks is the premise to optimize drilling borehole effect and increase gas extraction efficiency. In this study, a new width measurement method of the stress relief zone on the roadway surrounding rocks was proposed, which determined the width according to gas pressure attenuation speeds in roadway boreholes at different depths. Then, the variation curve of the gas pressure in boreholes at different depths with the time was gained through a field test. On this basis, laws of the gas pressure attenuation and the gas transmission and loss in boreholes at different depths were explored through a numerical simulation based on COMSOL Multiphysics, thus concluding the stress on roadway surrounding rocks, the distribution of plastic zones, and the stress-permeability relation. The scientificity of the proposed method was illustrated theoretically. Finally, the proposed method was verified by the field test data and numerical simulation results of the gas extraction at different sealing depths. Research results demonstrate that the pressure in boreholes attenuates in the logarithmic function pattern. The attenuation speed decreases with the increase of the drilling depth. The width of the stress relief zone on roadway surrounding rocks in the studied area was determined to be about 11 m according to the proposed method. Both the numerical simulation and the field test of the gas extraction efficiency prove the feasibility and validity of the proposed method in determining the sealing depth of the borehole for the gas extraction. Research conclusions are of important significance to enrich width measurement methods of the stress relief zone on roadway surrounding rocks and to optimize sealing parameters of underground boreholes for gas extraction.
Histone Lysine Methylation Dynamics ControlEGFRDNA Copy-Number Amplification
Authors: Clarke Thomas L. , Tang Ran , Chakraborty Damayanti , Van Rechem Capucine , Ji Fei , Mishra Sweta , Ma Anqi , Kaniskan H. Ümit , Jin Jian , Lawrence Michael S. , Sadreyev Ruslan I. , Whetstine Johnathan R.
Published: November 2019

Acquired chromosomal DNA copy gains are a feature of many tumors; however, the mechanisms that underpin oncogene amplification are poorly understood. Recent studies have begun to uncover the importance of epigenetic states and histone lysine methyltransferases (KMT) and demethylases (KDM) in regulating transient site-specific DNA copy-number gains (TSSG). In this study, we reveal a critical interplay between a myriad of lysine methyltransferases and demethylases in modulating H3K4/9/27 methylation balance to control extrachromosomal amplification of the EGFR oncogene. This study further establishes that cellular signals (hypoxia and EGF) are able to directly promote EGFR amplification through modulation of the enzymes controlling EGFR copy gains. Moreover, we demonstrate that chemical inhibitors targeting specific KMTs and KDMs are able to promote or block extrachromosomal EGFR amplification, which identifies potential therapeutic strategies for controlling EGFR copy-number heterogeneity in cancer, and, in turn, drug response.

Significance:

This study identifies a network of epigenetic factors and cellular signals that directly control EGFR DNA amplification. We demonstrate that chemical inhibitors targeting enzymes controlling this amplification can be used to rheostat EGFR copy number, which uncovers therapeutic opportunities for controlling EGFR DNA amplification heterogeneity and the associated drug response.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 161
Cerebral Venous Thrombosis at High Altitude: Analysis of 28 Cases
Authors: Hassan Wahaj Ul , Syed Maryam J. , Alamgir Wasim , Awan Safia , Bell Simon M. , Majid Arshad , Wasay Mohammad
Published: November 2019

Objective: An association between cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) and high altitude has been previously proposed, but limited published data exist to support this association. We investigated 28 cases of CVST occurring at high altitude and sought to describe patient demographics, altitude and acclimatization, hematological laboratory findings, neuroimaging, treatment, and prognosis in these cases. Methods: Twenty-eight cases of symptomatic CVST occurring at high altitude were identified between the months of August 2017 and December 2018, in collaboration with Military Hospital, Rawalpindi and Combined Military Hospital, Skardu (Pakistan). Follow-up visits were performed at 1 and 6 months. Results: Twenty-seven (96%) of the patients were males, and the mean age was 33 years. In total, 32.1% were smokers. The mean NIHSS score on presentation was 5.5. 85.7% of the cases occurred at altitude higher than 8,000 feet. On average 107.8 days were spent at a high altitude prior to CVST. Totally, 71.4% had acclimatized for >2 weeks. The mean hemoglobin (Hb) value was 16.7 g/dL and 50% had d-dimer levels higher than 1,000 ng/mL. On MRI, 25% showed signs of hemorrhage and 14.3% showed infarcts. Treatments provided include low-molecular-weight heparin and Rivaroxaban and were associated with good outcomes. Conclusion: CVST is not uncommon at high altitude (>8,000 feet). It is predominantly a male disease. Most patients have high Hb and high D-dimer levels. The overall outcome was good.
Comparison of a Novel Homogeneous Cyclic Amp Assay and a Luciferase Assay for Measuring Stimulating Thyrotropin-Receptor Autoantibodies
Authors: Diana Tanja , Olivo Paul D. , Chang Yie-Hwa , Wüster Christian , Kanitz Michael , Kahaly George J.
Published: November 2019

Objective: Stimulating thyrotropin-receptor antibodies (TSAb) cause Graves’ disease (GD). We tested a novel homogeneous fluorescent 3′,5′ cyclic adenine monophosphate (cAMP) assay for the detection of TSAb in a bioassay. Methods: Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines expressing either a chimeric (MC4) or wild-type (WT) TSH-R were incubated with the adenyl cyclase activator forskolin, a human TSAb monoclonal antibody (M22), and with sera from GD patients. Intracellular cAMP levels were measured using a Bridge-It® cAMP assay, and the results were compared with a luciferase-based bioassay. Results: Both cell lines were stimulated with forskolin concentrations (0.006–200 µM) in a dose-dependent manner. The linear range in the MC4 and WT cells was 0.8–25 and 3.1–50 µM, respectively. Levels of cAMP and luciferase in forskolin-treated MC4 and WT cells were positively correlated (r = 0.91 and 0.84, both p < 0.001). The 50% maximum stimulatory concentration of forskolin was more than 16-fold higher for the CHO-WT cells than the CHO-MC4 cells in the cAMP assay and 4-fold higher in the luciferase assay. Incubation of both cell lines with M22 (0.006–50 ng/mL) resulted in a dose-dependent increase in cAMP levels with linear ranges for the MC4 and WT cells of 0.8–12.5 and 0.2–3.125 ng/mL, respectively. Comparison of cAMP and luciferase levels in M22-treated MC4 and WT cells also showed a positive correlation (r = 0.88, p < 0.001 and 0.75, p = 0.002). A positive correlation was also noted when using patient samples (r = 0.96, p < 0.001) that were all TSH-R-Ab binding assay positive. Conclusion: The novel, rapid, simple-to-perform cAMP assay provides TSAb-mediated stimulatory results comparable to a luciferase-based bioassay.
Risk of Arterial Ischemic Events After Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Murthy Santosh B. , Diaz Ivan , Wu Xian , Merkler Alexander E. , Iadecola Costantino , Safford Monika M. , Sheth Kevin N. , Navi Babak B. , Kamel Hooman
Published: November 2019

Background and Purpose—

The risk of arterial ischemic events after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is poorly understood given the lack of a control group in prior studies. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of acute ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction (MI) among patients with and without ICH.

Methods—

We performed a retrospective cohort study using claims data from Medicare beneficiaries from 2008 to 2014. Our exposure was acute ICH, identified using validated
International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification
diagnosis codes. Our primary outcome was a composite of acute ischemic stroke and MI, whereas secondary outcomes were ischemic stroke alone and MI alone. We used Cox regression analysis to compute hazard ratios during 1-month intervals after ICH. Sensitivity analyses entailed exclusion of patients with atrial fibrillation and valvular heart disease.

Results—

Among 1 760 439 Medicare beneficiaries, 5924 had ICH. The 1-year cumulative incidence of an arterial ischemic event was 5.7% (95% CI, 4.8–6.8) in patients with ICH and 1.8% (95% CI, 1.7–1.9) in patients without ICH. After adjusting for potential confounders, the risk of an arterial ischemic event remained significantly increased for the first 6 months after ICH and was especially high in the first month (hazard ratio, 6.7 [95% CI, 5.0–8.6]). In secondary analysis, the risk of ischemic stroke was increased in the first 6 months after ICH (hazard ratio, 6.1 [95% CI, 3.5–9.3]) but the risk of MI was not (hazard ratio, 1.6 [95% CI, 0.3–2.9]). In sensitivity analyses excluding patients with atrial fibrillation and valvular heart disease, the association between ICH and arterial ischemic events was similar to that of the primary analysis.

Conclusions—

In a large population-based cohort, we found that elderly patients with ICH had a substantially increased risk of ischemic stroke in the first 6 months after diagnosis. Further exploration of this risk is needed to determine optimal secondary prevention strategies for these patients.
Christoph von Schallenberg und die Deutsche Liebeslyrik am Ende des 16. Jahrhunderts
Authors: Hübner Gert
Published: November 2019

Die Rezeption italienischer (und, in geringerem Ausmaß, neulateinischer) Textvorbilder im deutschen Liebeslied, die in den 70er Jahren des 16. Jahrhunderts einsetzte, führte zu einer Erweiterung des bestehenden liebeslyrischen Systems um petrarkistische (und, in geringerem Ausmaß, antikisierende) Ausdrucksformen. Zu einem Systembruch kam es nicht, da weder das bestehende Liebeskonzept noch die traditionellen Liedtypen und Rollenmodelle aufgegeben wurden. Der Integrationsvorgang ermöglichte eine große inteme Vielfalt der Liebeslied-Lyrik, verhinderte aber das für die zeitgenössische romanische und spätere deutsche Lese-Liebeslyrik charakteristische Spiel mit unterschiedlichen Liebeskonzepten. Die Entwicklung in der Liedlyrik basiert auf dem fortbestehenden Desinteresse an der Textautorschaft, das eine Differenzierung von Autoritäten und eine Poetik der imitatio im Sinn konkreter Einzeltextreferenz nicht begünstigte. Christoph von Schallenberg ist trotz seiner Ausnahmestellung als reiner Textdichter und wegen der Besonderheit der Überlieferungsverhältnisse ein erkenntnisträchtiger Modellfall für die praktizierte Poetik in der Epoche des ‘italianisierten Lieds’.
الأمثال في الرسائل الأشورية الحديثة وامتدادها
Authors: علي ياسين الجبوري
Published: November 2019

Proverbs are very short sentences popular speech of everyday life, which indicate indirectly special issues concerning political, administrative and social life, etc. The history and origin of Mesopotamians proverbs dates back to the early Dynasty when they were used orally until the Sumerian invented writing approximately 3400 BCE. Thereafter, school teachers used them as an example for students and in this way hundreds of proverbs preserved and continued until the collapse of the late Babylonian period 539 BCE. However, some of them continued in use until now. This paper focuses on some of the discovered proverbs in Assyrian letters and extended to our Arabic language.
Friends or Foes? The Effect of Governor-Siloviki Interaction on Economic Growth in Russian Regions
Authors: Yakovlev and Anton Aisin Andrei
Published: November 2019

Although many scholars have analyzed the role played by the siloviki in Russian politics, they usually focus on the presence of siloviki in the federal elite or the pressure they exerted on business. In this article, we use new data on the appointments of regional governors and the heads of regional departments of the Federal Security Service (ufsb), as well as data on regional economic growth from 2005 to 2017, to examine how decisions by the Kremlin with respect to the appointment of key regional siloviki have affected economic development in Russian regions. We find that regions where the governor-siloviki relationship has been stable over time also display higher rates of growth. We then investigate whether regional fsb heads are specifically appointed to start investigations on regional governors, but do not find a statistically significant relationship. Finally, we show how a number of newly appointed political heavyweights among Russia’s governor corps have been given their “own” silovik to support them in their region.
Tunable Sensing Property of 1D Periodic Structure with Defect of Liquid Crystal Sandwiched by Metallic Layers
Authors: Singh Pawan , Pal Krishan , Kumar Narinder , Singh Sudesh K. , Thapa Khem B. , Kumar Devesh
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we have investigated the optical properties of one-dimensional periodic structure of dielectric materials with defect of liquid crystal (LC) sandwiched with two silver (Ag) layers. The transmission, reflection and absorption properties of considered periodic structure
have calculated theoretically using transfer matrix method (TMM). Our study reports that the tunability of absorption defect peak of the defect periodic structure is achieved by the variation in the incident angle of electromagnetic wave. The obtained result suggests that such defect periodic
structure may be used as tunable sensor and filter devices.
Global Survey of Precipitation Properties Observed during Tropical Cyclogenesis and Their Differences Compared to Nondeveloping Disturbances
Authors: Zawislak Jonathan
Published: November 2019

This study evaluates precipitation properties involved in tropical cyclogenesis by analyzing a multiyear, global database of passive microwave overpasses of the pregenesis stage of developing disturbances and nondeveloping disturbances. Precipitation statistics are quantified using brightness temperature proxies from the 85–91-GHz channels of multiple spaceborne sensors, as well as retrieved rain rates. Proxies focus on the overall raining area, areal coverage of deep convection, and the proximity of precipitation to the disturbance center. Of interest are the differences in those proxies for developing versus nondeveloping disturbances, how the properties evolve during the pregenesis stage, and how they differ globally. The results indicate that, of all of the proxies examined, the total raining area and rain volume near the circulation center are the most useful precipitation-related predictors for genesis. The areal coverage of deep convection also differentiates developing from nondeveloping disturbances and, similar to the total raining area, generally also increases during the pregenesis stage, particularly within a day of genesis. As the threshold convective intensity is increased, pregenesis cases are less distinguishable from nondeveloping disturbances. Relative to the western Pacific and Indian Oceans, the Atlantic and eastern North Pacific Oceans have less precipitation and deep convection observed during genesis and the smallest differences between developing and nondeveloping disturbances. This suggests that the total raining area and areal coverage of deep convection associated with tropical disturbances are better predictors of tropical cyclogenesis fate in the Pacific and Indian Oceans than in the Atlantic and eastern North Pacific.
On the Divergent Trajectories of African Islamism: Explaining Salafi Non-Radicalisation in Zanzibar
Authors: Saalfeld Jannis
Published: November 2019

With the rise of Jihadist groups like Boko Haram and Al-Shabaab, the theory-oriented exploration of the causes and dynamics of militant Islamist mobilisation in sub-Saharan Africa has become an important research endeavour. Existing explanatory frameworks highlight the causal relevance of multi-faceted Muslim grievances, pre-existing histories of non-Islamist political violence, and a lack of institutional regulation of Salafism in the first decades after independence. Examining the deviant case of Zanzibar, the article investigates why, despite the fact that all these conditions have been present on the islands, local Salafi activism has so far not gravitated towards Jihadism. It shows that the deeply entrenched Zanzibari two-party conflict between Tanzania’s long-standing authoritarian ruling party Chama Cha Mapinduzi and the oppositional Civic United Front has persistently blocked the opening up of political space for the development of sizeable militant Islamist activity. The article thus contributes to area-centred theory-building by demonstrating that vigorous electoral competition can effectively forestall the rise of Jihadism.