Iranian Journal of Kideny Diseases | ISSN : 1735 - 8604 | NLM ID: 101316967
************Please submit your papers by email to ijkd.editor@gmail.com or editor@ijkd.net ************ Medline : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/nlmcatalog/?term=1735-8604 Journal Metrics: IF : 0.7 MEiN: 40 pkt ICI Journals Master List ICV 2024: 112.29 CiteScore : 1.5 SCImago Journal Rank (SJR) : 0.36 Source Normalized Impact per Paper (SNIP) : 0.585 H-index: 36 Indexed/Tracked/Covered By: KoreaMed, KoMCI, MedLine, PubMed, PubMed Central, Scopus, CrossRef,EMBASE, BIOSIS Previews, Zoological Record, CAS, Google Scholar. Accredited BY DHET, SOUTH AFRICA | Journal ID: JNL_016244 The Iranian Journal of Kidney Diseases (IJKD) is a peer-reviewed academic journal dedicated to advancing research and clinical practice in the field of nephrology. The journal publishes high-quality original research articles, review papers, case reports, and short communications that address all aspects of kidney health and disease. Its scope includes, but is not limited to, chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, dialysis, renal transplantation, hypertension, and related metabolic and systemic disorders. The journal also encourages interdisciplinary studies that connect nephrology with other medical and biomedical sciences. The Iranian Journal of Kidney Diseases aims to provide a platform for clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals to share innovative findings, promote evidence-based practices, and improve patient outcomes globally. While maintaining a strong regional focus, the journal welcomes contributions from the international scientific community.
Determinants of Counterproductive Work Behavior Among University Staff
This study was conducted to evaluate the factors influence in development of counterproductive work behavior amongst university employees. For this purpose employees of Peshawar University and Agriculture University Peshawar were considered population total 500 questionnaires were distributed. Responses were received from 415 participants. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS and AMO software. The Confirmatory Factor Analysis was conducted to evaluate model fitness however, regression analysis was conducted to evaluate relationship between independent variables and dependent variables. Study found employees development, organizational commitment, burnout and psychological capital influence in development of counterproductive work behavior in university employees. The statistical values of regression analysis show the existence of significant positive relationship between independent variables and dependent variables also found consistent with previous studies. In this regard it is recommended that organization must consider the identified factors to encounter the development of counterproductive work behavior amongst employees. Also recommend to develop soft image in industry by providing employees development opportunities.
Copyright (c) 2024 Iranian Journal of Kideny Diseases | ISSN : 1735 - 8604
Assessment Practices and Educational Quality: Progress, Limitations, and Contemporary Issues
This essay discusses about current advances, challenges and limitations about educational assessment and quality. For this purpose, the assessment role on educational processes improvement, and their effects on educational quality was identified. Main findings show that conceptions about assessment and their applications in education have advanced. This have contributed on continuous progress of education practices. Likewise, educational quality have been related to a reflexive transformation through contextual practices. However, challenges and limitations about intended relationship between both concepts persist today.
The Relationship Between Stock Market Movements and Equity Mutual Funds in Pakistan: Evidence from KSE-100 Index
This research paper studies the causal relationship between Pakistan Stock Exchange and Mutual Fund Industry in Pakistan. KSE100 – Index and Equity mutual funds has been selected as benchmark to check the relationship between them. A causality and Vector Auto Regression technique has been used to see the impact of stock returns over mutual funds flows and vice versa. The Johansen test showed that variables under study are not cointegrated in long run. Granger causality and Vector Auto regression Model test shows unidirectional relationship of KSE100 index over Mutual fund flows. KSE100 index return significantly affected by its own lags and mutual funds lags, although impact of mutual funds lags and KSE100 index lags on Mutual fund flow is not significant. Based on results it could be concluded that improved Pakistan stock exchange performance improves the performance of mutual fund industry in Pakistan.
Assessing the Impact of Liquidity Risk on Performance of Islamic Banks in Germany (2014–2018)
Many researchers have proved with their studies that one of the factors affecting economic growth of every country is banking performance, so by improving performance of banks the economy of any country can be improved. Major purpose behind this research study is to figure out the influence of liquidity on performance of Islamic banks in Pakistan. Liquidity Risk increases when bank’s funds decreases to pay their dues on time. Liquidity (independent variable) of banks has been studied by Loan to Deposit Ratio (L-DR), Liquid Risky Assets to Total Assets (LRA-TA) and Capital to Total Asset Ratio (C-TA). The Bank Performance (dependent variable) has been measured by Return on Assets (ROA) and Return on Equity (ROE). Secondary panel data starting from year (2014-2018) has been derived from financial statements of Meezan Bank Ltd and BankIslami Ltd Pakistan. Regression Model (Multiple Linear) has been used to find out the influence on dependent variable by independent variable. This study results that, keeping other factors constant, Liquidity is positively affecting financial performance (ROA & ROE) of Islamic banks in Pakistan but their impact is insignificant. Based on results we can recommend to Islamic Banks for improving performance they should increase their Net Current Assets.
Can SARS-CoV-2 Immune Complex Sensitization Trigger Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS)?
The diagnosis of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been a great challenge since the infection affects not only the respiratory system, but also different organs, given the intense inflammatory and autoimmune reaction triggered by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We present a case of a 36-year old male patient, with some comorbidities and previous use of carbamazepine, who developed a severe condition triggered by COVID-19, including extensive exfoliative erythroderma and severe impairment of liver function, which lasted approximately 80 days.
A Comparative Analysis of Permissibility in the Usūl al-Fiqh of al-Ghazālī and al-Shāṭibī
This paper deals with a fundamentalist theory, which is the theory of permissibility and permissibility as counted by most scholars of the provisions of the mandate and has many issues where scholars spoke.On the whole, the researcher saw that the concept of permissibility is compared between the two great imams of the fundamentals of jurisprudence, namely Al Ghazali and Al-Shatibi, may God Almighty have mercy on them.The researcher followed the inductive approach, and the researcher followed the inductive method by collecting the scientific material for permissibility at Al-Ghazali and Al-Shatibi, as well as the analytical method in which the researcher presents the scientific article with an explanation of the scientific issue by analyzing texts and making use of these texts to derive what is permissible when the two worlds and similarities and differences between them.And the researcher followed his research with several results and recommendations, and among the most important results.Al-Ghazali divided Al-Mabbah into only two, while Al-Shatby divided it into four sections with different considerations, the most prominent of which is according to the intention, and it is a new section that I think was not preceded by anyone.While the most important recommendations and it is a general will for all those charged with the task is how to benefit from permissible things in the worldly life, it is by intention that it is one of the sections of the commissioning mandate that one is rewarded for
The Effect of Self-Efficacy and Organizational Culture on Employee Commitment in the Banking Sector
Committed employees lead to increased productivity and efficiency of organization. However, the factors leading to commitment of employees in banking sector are inadequately known in existing literature.Previous research had largely focused on organizational culture, satisfaction cause commitment but a little attention has been paid to combined effects of the cultural factors and self-efficacy on organizational commitment of employees. Thus, this study examined factors which cause organizational commitment of employees in banking sector. Based on 200 bank managers’ survey, study reveals a significant relationship of corporate culture and self-efficacy with organizational commitment of private banking sector employees.
Understanding the Relationship Between Brand Experience, Customer Satisfaction, and PWOM in Smartphones
The impact of brand experience on positive word of mouth has taken for the current study in which customer satisfaction used as the mediator in the context of Smartphone usage in Pakistan. The data has been collected through using convenience-sampling technique from the undergraduate students of The Shaikh Ayaz University Shikarpur. The data collection was done from the aspect of Smartphone buying experiences (N = 389) and were quantitatively analyzed on SPSS 26 and Amos 26. The Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to check the mediation effect of customer satisfaction between Brand Experience and Positive word of Mouth communication. The results signified that brand experience was the main construct having contribution on positive WOM communication but customer satisfaction performed the role of full mediator in the association between Brand Experience and Positive word of mouth in the context of Smart phones. The discussion, conclusion, Theoretical and managerial suggestion of the results are reported in the light of the brand management literature. Moreover, further research directions are also evident.
Evaluating Discrepancies Between Expected and Actual Results in Microfinance Programs
Abstract This study aims to investigate an unexplored dimension of microfinance industry in Pakistan by analysing the social performance of Microfinance Providers (MFPs) in terms of finding the gaps between stated and actual outcomes. The study employs qualitative content analysis, to explore the vision and mission of 27 MFPs (Microfinance institutions and Microfinance banks) and success stories of microfinance borrowers published on the official websites of MFPs. The results of content analysis revels financial inclusion, social and economic development, poverty alleviation, and empowerment as prominent themes stated in the strategic statements. The major findings of the study suggest that vision and mission statements are aligned in stating the expected outcomes of microfinance, whereas, few gaps between actual and expected outcomes are reported in terms of their focus. Among various themes; MFPs have focused financial inclusion and empowerment the most, while borrowers’ success stories highlighted the business expansion and improved living standard as the prominent outcomes of microfinance.
The Role of Overconfidence, Underdog Bias, and Risk Propensity in Investor Decision-Making
This study has been carried out to measure the ability of investors to face the level of risk as investors go beyond the risk level or investors have ability to face the risk as overconfidence or underdog bias risk in relation to risk propensity. The study has utilized primary source of data collection from 184 investors who mostly invests in financial securities as: “Pension / Provident Fund Management, Private Wealth Investment Private Equity, Hedge Fund Management, Equity Trading, Fund of Funds, Bond Trading, Stock Broking, and Insurance.” This study has inquired respondents to specify their funds' present level of risk. 48% reported that they served in reasonable risk setting, 28% high-risk situation, 12% mixed risk perspective and 12% in conservative perspective.
Evaluating Corporate Governance in Pakistan International Airlines Corporation Limited
Aim of this study is to explore how corporate governance impacts performance of public sector organizations in Pakistan in particular PIACL. Study was carried out by conducting twenty in-depth interviews from the key informants in PIACL to find out factors behind unsatisfactory performance of national flag carrier using narrative analysis technique. Findings revealed that appointment of inappropriate persons in the BoD, political involvement in operational decision making which hinder merit based decision making in corporation as a result there are wrong policies, unsound decision making, less transparent actions, and lose accountability practices cause poor performance. Corporation has been facing chronic issues like shortage of aircrafts, huge financial losses, un-availability of spare parts on time, delay in flight take offs, frequent development of technical faults in aircrafts, conflicts between union with management are frequently reported in media and annual reports of the corporation. Implications of findings are discussed in the last section of the paper.
Copyright (c) 2026 Iranian Journal of Kideny Diseases | ISSN : 1735 - 8604
Prevalence of Alexithymia and Its Associated Factors in Elderly Individuals with Diabetes Mellitus
Objective: To determine the alexithymia traits and associated risk factors in the elder patients suffering from DM (Diabetes Mellitus). Methodology: This research work was a descriptive study carried out in Nishter Hospital, Multan on 120 patients suffering from Diabetes Mellitus. We performed the collection of data with the utilization of personal data form and the TAS (Toronto Alexithymia Scale). Results: Alexithymia prevailed in 75.80% elder patients who were suffering from Diabetes Mellitus. We discovered that these patients faced difficulties in the identification and description of their feelings. All of these patients were present with high externally-oriented styles of thinking. The level of patients, structure of family and duration of illness influenced their manifestation of traits of alexithymia. Conclusion: Most of the elder patients suffering from Diabetes Mellitus exhibited the characteristics of alexithymia. But these characteristics were not present to have association with gender, patient’s age, marital status, level of qualification and occupational status. Additionally, there was no association between alexithymia and HbA1c (Glycosylated Hemoglobin), BMI (Body Mass Index), PBG (Post-prandial Glucose) and the complications and treatment associated with Diabetes Mellitus.
A Novel Approach to Treating Exposure Keratopathy Using Glad Press’n Seal
We report a novel technique creating a moisture chamber from Glad Press’n Seal® to treat chronic exposure keratopathy. Exposure keratopathy can be caused by a variety of conditions including eyelid retraction, eyelid colobomas, proptosis, thyroid eye disease, and lagophthalmos. A moisture chamber is an ideal long-term solution for patients that are poor surgical candidates or an excellent temporary solution while the underlying etiology of the disease is treated successfully or as it spontaneously resolves. We describe a representative case demonstrating how Glad Press’n Seal® may be used as a cheap, effective, and user-friendly method to create a moisture chamber. Beyond this single case, more than 20 additional patients have utilized this technique to good effect without reporting skin irritation, typical of adhesive based occlusives. We propose the use of Glad Press’n Seal® as an alternative moisture chamber in patients with chronic exposure keratopathy who fail topical lubrication irrespective of etiology.
Copyright (c) 2025 Iranian Journal of Kideny Diseases | ISSN : 1735 - 8604
Potential Therapeutic Effects of L-Carnitine in COVID19: Molecular Insights
Currently, COVID19 has been converted to a catastrophic pandemic worldwide. SARS-CoV 2 virus targets the ACE2 receptor in the human cells and triggers a chain of deleterious events. Despite the high morbidity, there is not yet an efficient treatment for this infection. In this review, some protective aspects of L.Carnitine (LC) have been addressed. In COVID19, renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is upregulated, and the NF-κB pathway is overexpressed. Moreover, a progressive cytokine storm is established. In all of these pathogenic processes, LC could play a modifier role to improve the condition. LC could be beneficial against the antioxidant effects of Angiotensin II by inhibition of NF-κB and down-regulation of NOX1 and NOX2. An anti-apoptotic and genome-stabilizer function has been determined for LC through inhibition of pro-apoptotic caspases and activation of PARP-1. LC is an immunomodulator that downregulates the pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL 6, and IL-1 which could quench the cytokine storm. LC also can act as a protective agent against the cardiotoxicity caused in COVID19 because of the disturbance in the ACE2 mediated signaling pathway, cytokine storm, pulmonary dysfunction, and drug side-effects. Given the potential protective effects of LC, it is suggested as a supportive and therapeutic option in the patients with coronavirus infection.
Implementation of Historical Learning Models in Vocational Education: A Case Study of SMK Karya Guna Manggarai
This article is the result of a study of the history learning model at Vocational School of Guna Manggarai, South Jakarta. The study was conducted using qualitative methods. Data collection techniques carried out by means of observation, interviews, and documentation. Interview data were obtained from key informants and core informants. Data analysis uses data triangulation. This research produces empirical data about the model of history learning in Vocational School of Work, which includes the stages of planning, implementation and evaluation. The learning model can be classified in the conventional learning model with Expository strategy where learning is centered on the teacher ( teacher centered learning). The learning model applied in class X in all majors is almost the same pattern, which uses the lecture method using powerpoint media in the form of pictures. The image media used by Mrs. Dwi Astuti is quite effective in helping students remember the subject matter. this is because learning activities place more emphasis on mastering content so students can answer exam questions in the form of memorizing facts. Thus the history learning model at SMK Karya Guna still emphasizes that the transfer of knowledeges has not yet reached the transfer of value.
Surface Plasmon Resonance-Based Single-Polarization Optical Fiber for Broadband Applications
Of current concern to global health is the emergence of a novel human coronavirus (SARS-CoV 2) causing severe respiratory tract infections in humans. Person to person and surface contact have been fingered as the major transmission route of SARS-CoV-2. The ability of virus to survive in the environment is a critical factor in viral transmission. Recent researches have shown that the virus can survive on surface of plastics up to 5 days under room temperature and in aerosol for up to 3 hours. Therefore this research opinion proposes that SARS-CoV-2 can be accommodated in formed viral biofilms on microplastics surfaces and can thus be deposited over longer distances (> 100 km), than is currently being thought to be, since microplastics are airborne over long distances. This pathway should be studied by scientist as it may provide insight on why some region experienced the outbreak The polarization changes of fiber guided mode have serious effect on the performance of fiber sensors [1-2]. In order to suppress the polarization effects, the popular solutions are to employ polarization-maintaining fibers, single-polarization fibers and polarizers into sensor systems. As a key component, all-fiber polarizers have been designed in various schemes involving metal or graphene-coated polarizers [3-6], tunable fiber polarizers [7-8] and fiber-grating polarizers [9-10]. Fiber polarizers maintain efficient transmission of single polarization mode, while deplete other polarization modes via certain mode-coupling mechanisms. Particularly, broadband polarizers covering the telecom bands are widely desirable in practice. However, it is basically difficult to achieve broadband operation in traditional fiber polarizers. Recently, some solutions were presented to overcome the limitation of working bandwidth to push broadband single polarization fibers. Typically, graphene-covered fiber polarizer was proposed to improve the layers are different, which expressed as hd1 and hd2, respectively. The refractive index of dielectric layer is described by nd = 1.438. (a) d2 d3 hAu d1 y z o x PML Cladding Au Dielectric Core Air core bandwidth coverage from 1.56μm to 1.63μm. The extinction ratios were about 25dB to 36dB in a fiber length of 2.5 mm [11]. Fiber grating polarizers were also suggested to increase the working band in single polarization operation, but at the cost of larger sizes than metal-coated fiber polarizers [12]. For the tunable polarizers, some tunable parameters such as temperature or voltage have to be tuned in order to operate in broadband [7-8]. In contrast, double hole fibers (DHFs) can be much attractive in the applications of single polarization fibers and optical sensing due to compact scale, flexible and reliability [13-15]. no trace/history of visit or contact by an infected person. As there are currently no specific therapies for SARS-CoV-2, we therefore proposed that total lockdown (which have also reduced global anthropogenic activities) is perhaps in the best interest of mankind.
The Role of Atmospheric Microplastics in the Transmission of SARS-CoV-2
Of current concern to global health is the emergence of a novel human coronavirus (SARS-CoV 2) causing severe respiratory tract infections in humans. Person to person and surface contact have been fingered as the major transmission route of SARS-CoV-2. The ability of virus to survive in the environment is a critical factor in viral transmission. Recent researches have shown that the virus can survive on surface of plastics up to 5 days under room temperature and in aerosol for up to 3 hours. Therefore this research opinion proposes that SARS-CoV-2 can be accommodated in formed viral biofilms on microplastics surfaces and can thus be deposited over longer distances (> 100 km), than is currently being thought to be, since microplastics are airborne over long distances. This pathway should be studied by scientist as it may provide insight on why some region experienced the outbreak with no trace/history of visit or contact by an infected person. As there are currently no specific therapies for SARS-CoV-2, we therefore proposed that total lockdown (which have also reduced global anthropogenic activities) is perhaps in the best interest of mankind.
Mezban as a Sociocultural Communication System in Bangladeshi Society
Food association and habit is a substantial part of communication and culture. Chittagong and its culturally significant feast of Mezban shows a remarkable case of food practices as a communicative act and how the people of Chittagong upheld a tradition of connecting people through generous custom of sharing food.
Securing Computer Networks with Signature-Based Detection Techniques
A Network Intrusion Detection System is used to monitor networks for attacks or intrusions and report these intrusions to the administrator in order to take evasive action. NIDS is an intrusion detection system that attempts to discover unauthorized access to a computer network by analyzing traffic on the network for signs of malicious activity. Intrusion detection is an important technology in business sector as well as the research area. It inspects all inbound and outbound network activity and identifies suspicious patterns that may indicate a network or system attack from someone attempting to break into or compromise a system. A signature based IDS will survey the packets on the network and compare them against a database of signatures or attributes from known attackers. In this system the attack log displays the list of attacks to the administrator for Unauthorized action. This system works as an alert device in the event of attacks directed towards an entire network. In This Paper we will discuss about the detection and Prevention of Network and the Business world prevent from the unauthorized access.
Sustainable Iron Production via Low-Temperature Alkaline Electrolysis
Under the ULCOWIN and the SIDERWIN projects a novel process for carbon-free iron production has been developed. Iron ore is reduced to metallic iron through electrolysis in aqueous alkaline solutions. This research paper investigates the use of Bauxite Residue from the alumina industry, as an alternative raw material for iron production under the same technology. The process is investigated, in a high alkaline environment and under low temperature and ambient conditions. Several parameters, as well as their effect in the efficiency of the system, were examined at lab scale. Under the optimum combination of parameters studied iron production was achieved at current efficiencies exceeding 70%. Bauxite Residue has therefore the potential to be used as an alternative raw material in iron production through this novel sustainable process.
Antarctic Fishes and the Physiological Significance of Blood Viscosity
Viscosity increases with decreased temperature. The author argues that loss of hemoglobin is a “disaptation” or evolutionary loss of function which confers a competitive advantage in Antarctic waters because of decreased blood viscosity. Because the likelihood of developing turbulent flow is inversely related to viscosity, a minimum degree of blood viscosity is necessary. Also, pathologically high shear caused by insufficient viscosity will activate or damage the formed elements of blood such as leukocytes and platelets. The necessary viscosity in icefish is provided by antifreeze glycoproteins. Blood viscosity increases markedly with decreasing temperature. The viscosity of human blood at a normal hematocrit, 40%, at 0⁰ C was 16.7 cP at the high shear rate of 125/s in one study [1]. This is incompatible with life. Normal human blood viscosity at high shear rates is
The Future of Hong Kong’s Economy: Prospects for Continued Prosperity
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) enforced National Security Law to intrude judicial independence of Hong Kong preceded by intruding administration, legislature and media, as a result of which personal freedom will be impacted severely while people are the fundamental element of economy.
Technical Differences Between Cash and Accrual IPSAS Implementation in Africa
Accountability of public funds and appropriations is at the core of every government executive, legislature and judiciary. Inability and poor accountability in public funds, at its worst it has culminated in unethical and criminal conduct by public officers. Cash and accrual based IPSASs and general purpose financial statements presented fairly based on the qualitative characteristics of financial reporting enhance accountability and transparency of governments and public entities. This scientific study purpose to evaluate the relative application technical differences of cash and accrual based IPSASs in Africa, based on accounting professionals in public sector practice. The methodology adopted for this study was mixed research methodology, based on case study research design optimising both quantitative and qualitative, using descriptive and inferential statics including explanatory notes. The sampling frame of Pan African Federation Accountants (PAFA) public sector accountants, being selected randomly was adopted. The results revealed that the accrual based IPSAS is conceptually more relevant in the attainment of the public sector objectives, than the cash based IPSAS, and that all IPSAS first time users should follow a logical sequence of adoption starting the cash based, through the transition, and finally adopt the accrual based IPSAS perceived to more costly and technically challenging in adoption and implementation
Accountability and Transparency in Mosque Financial Reporting: Application of PSAK 109 in ZIS Institutions
This research aims to find out the transparency and accountability of mosque which manages zakat, infaq and shodaqoh. This research is a qualitative research with descriptive analysis method. Moreover, there is no mosque accounting standard yet, so it prosecutes mosque organizer for making a transparent and accountable financial statement, which is good both of religion views and economy views. The result of this research is The Grand Mosque of Bandung ZIS Organization already give accountability and transparency of financial management to public but still in its way, simply. The form of financial statement is also simple and only show the cash receipt and cash payment and It also does not apply PSAK 109 The Accounting of Zakat, Infaq, and Shodaqoh.
Cooperative and Cell-Specific Modulation of Neocortical Layer 6A Microcircuits by Muscarinic and Nicotinic Receptors
Italic bold font indicates significant differences to control; *P < 0.05, **P < 0.01, ***P < 0.001 for Wilcoxon signed-rank test. CT- connections (n = 7) comprise 2 CT-CT, 1 CT-CC and 4 CT interneuron connections.
Sustainable Cement and Concrete Composites: Current Developments and Future Directions
Due to global demand for sustainability, more advanced techniques have been recommended for improvement cement and construction purposes. Reduction in emissions for all infrastructural projects can be realized when there will be swift scale-up in the use of novel cement alongside the integration of positive policies. This study investigates approaches such as RPC, steel fiber reinforcement, green cement, advanced nano cement and self-consolidating and how they contribute to environmental sustainability and reduction of costs of construction. An improved multifunctional nanoengineered concrete exhibits advanced functionalities in comparison to the conventional cement. For instance, they have up to 79.5% and 146% respective flexural and compressive strengths. Besides, they have advanced thermo-mechanical and electrical performance with a considerable decline in water absorption of almost 400%. Such benefits make this study worth analyzing how these approaches can be implemented. The study also analyzes advanced cement repair and preservation techniques. Due to the low adoption of these sustainable solutions, this study recommends concerted efforts from different stakeholders including policymakers to implement low-carbon rates.
Phylogenetic Positioning within Proteobacteria: From Betaproteobacteria to Alcaligenaceae
The genus Ampullimonas comprises one species named Ampullimonas aquatilis. The organism forms rod-shaped cells that are 1.0 µm in width and 1.0–2.0 µm in length. The species is motile. The organism stains Gram-negative and endospores are not observed. Colonies are nonpigmented. The species A. aquatilis is mesophilic and strictly aerobic. Cytochrome c oxidase positive and catalase negative. Chemoorganotrophic; capable of chemolithoheterotrophic growth with molecular hydrogen. Able to fix N2 under microaerobic conditions. Growth factors are necessary for growth in minimal medium. Organic acids are used as carbon and energy sources; sugars, amino acids and polyols tested are not used for growth with the exception of glycerol. Major respiratory quinone of this species is ubiquinone 8 (U-8). The polar lipid profile is composed of phosphatidylglycerol (PG) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE). Fatty acids are primarily straight-chain saturated and monounsaturated; hydroxy fatty acids are also present. The type strain was isolated from bottled mineral water. DNA G+C content (mol%): 49.7–49.8 (HPLC). Type species: Ampullimonas aquatilis França et al. 2016VP.
Identification of a Novel Non-Invasive Biomarker for Malignancy in Chronic Pancreatitis
Objectives: Pancreatic malignancy is a major public health problem worldwide and recent reports indicated that pancreatic cancer will be second most common cause of cancer-related deaths by the end of 2021. The cause of increasing death rate is due to the nonexistence of detection tools to early diagnose, poor prognosis, resistance to chemotherapy and also lack in understanding the mechanism of PDAC pathogenesis. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) play a major role in metastatic step of intravasation and presence of these cells are strong prognostic marker for the progression of pancreatic malignancy in chronic pancreatitis (CP). Goal: Identifying the novel CTCs in the chronic inflammation mediated experimental model for the progression of malignancy in CP. Methods: We have performed flow cytometer and immunofluorescence analyses were performed in the lymphoid and lung samples to detect CTCs in the chronic inflammation (Cerulin and Azoxymethane) induced CP mouse model. Results: We report that induced SOX9 positive cells were observed in the blood, lymph node and spleen samples of cerulein with azoximethane (AOM) treated mice compared to cerulein alone. Further, we provide evidence that early metastasis through the migration and homing of mega merged SOX9+ and PDX+ ductal stem cells (CTCs) in the lungs of cerulein with AOM treated mice. These identified CTCs in experimentally induced malignant pancreatitis may serve as a novel finding to identify a non-invasive biomarker that needs to be examined in the blood of human pancreatic cancer. Conclusions: Taken together, the presented data of identified mega merged SOX9+ and PDX+ ductal stem cells (CTCs) may serve a non-invasive biomarker for the early detection of pancreatic malignancy and metastasis.
Measuring Optical Gain in Lead Halide Perovskites Using the Variable Stripe Length Method: Lessons and Challenges
In the search for novel photonic materials, the recent focus on Metal halide perovskites (MHPs) has revealed their promise to become groundbreaking low-threshold, tunable coherent light sources. An accurate determination of the optical gain coefficient (g) would help to screen for materials and design highly efficient perovskite lasers. Nevertheless, contradictory numbers are continuously reported, making this figure of merit unreliable. To address this issue, the present work outlines a meticulous analysis to retrieve g of MAPbI3, based on the variable stripe-length (VSL) method. This method is often preferred due to its apparent simplicity; however, one can arrive at incorrect conclusions without the adequate considerations. Therefore, here the experimental implementation and numerical treatment of the data are thoroughly discussed to establish a robust VSL methodology. The obtained power dependence and spectral gain evolution point to the role of electron-hole bimolecular recombination dictating the stimulated emission properties of MAPbI3, with a behavior resembling that of bulk GaAs. Beyond providing further knowledge on the procedure to carry out pertinent VSL measurements, this work also outlines a meticulous methodology to study the underlying photophysical gain properties of MHPs and consequently, to obtain a deeper understanding of the lasing properties of these complex materials.
A Simple Colorimetric Method for Determining Tetrabromobisphenol A in Polymer Materials
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectrum of (A) actual sample, and (B) ABS resin (searched in the library).