bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA‐4443 regulates monocyte activation by targeting tumor necrosis factor receptor associated factor 4 in stroke‐induced immunosuppression
Authors: Li S. , Lu G. , Wang D. , He J. L. , Zuo L. , Wang H. , Gu Z. T. , Zhou J. S. , Yan F. L. , Deng Q. W.
Published: April 2020

Background and purpose

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been demonstrated to play crucial roles in the early stage of acute ischaemic stroke (AIS). The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression patterns of miRNAs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from AIS patients and further explore related molecular mechanisms in stroke‐induced immunodeficiency syndrome (SIDS).

Methods

The miRNA expression patterns of PBMCs were detected by miRNA microarray and validated by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) in AIS patients and healthy controls. Bioinformatics methods and luciferase reporter assays were used to detect the downstream target genes. Following stimulation with lipopolysaccharide and interleukin‐4, the expression of miR‐4443, tumor necrosis factor receptor associated factor 4 (TRAF4) and the nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) pathway were evaluated. Furthermore, transfection with miR‐4443 mimic or inhibitor in the monocytes was carried out to gain insight into the mechanisms in SIDS.

Results

Interleukin‐10 in AIS patients was significantly higher than that of healthy controls. The miRNA microarray analysis and qRTPCR validation showed that only miR‐4443 was upregulated expressed in PBMCs from AIS patients, especially in monocytes. miR‐4443 was shown to directly interact with the 3′ untranslated regions of TRAF4, resulting in suppression of TRAF4 protein expression. Furthermore, the expression of miR‐4443 and TRAF4 was regulated by stimulation with lipopolysaccharide or interleukin‐4. Additionally, overexpression of miR‐4443 suppressed the TRAF4/Iκα/NF‐κB signaling pathway to activate the expression of anti‐inflammatory cytokines in monocytes.

Conclusions

The increased expression of miR‐4443 induced monocyte dysfunction by targeting TRAF4, which may function as a crucial mediator in SIDS.
A co‐designed framework to support and sustain patient and family engagement in health‐care decision making
Authors: McCarron Tamara L. , Noseworthy Thomas , Moffat Karen , Wilkinson Gloria , Zelinsky Sandra , White Deborah , Hassay Derek , Lorenzetti Diane L. , Marlett Nancy J.
Published: April 2020

Background

Patient and family engagement in health care has emerged as a critical priority. Understanding engagement, from the perspective of the patient and family member, coupled with an awareness of how patient and family members are motivated to be involved, is an important component in increasing the effectiveness of patient engagement initiatives. The purpose of this research was to co‐design a patient and family engagement framework.

Methods

Workshops were held to provide additional context to the findings from a survey. Participants were recruited using a convenience sampling strategy. Workshop data collected were analysed using a modified constant comparative technique. The core research team participated in a workshop to review the findings from multiple inputs to inform the final framework and participated in a face validity exercise to determine that the components of the framework measured what they were intended to measure.

Results

The framework is organized into three phases of engagement: why I got involved; why I continue to be involved; and what I need to strengthen my involvement. The final framework describes seven motivations and 24 statements, arranged by the three phases of engagement.

Conclusion

The results of this research describe the motivations of patient and family members who are involved with health systems in various roles including as patient advisors. A deeper knowledge of patient and family motivations will not only create meaningful engagement opportunities but will also enable health organizations to gain from the voice and experience of these individuals, thereby enhancing the quality and sustainability of patient and family involvement.
Integrating e‐collections following the merger of two specialist hospital libraries: a case study
Authors: Daly Ann , Harrison Sandra , Reed Angela , Yates Derick
Published: April 2020

Background

Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust was formed in February 2017 following an acquisition. The Library and Knowledge Services (LKS) merged while operating across two hospital sites. A priority for the merged Library and Knowledge Service was to integrate e‐collections. A literature review identified six papers reporting health libraries that had merged and integrated e‐collections.

Objectives

A priority for the merged Library and Knowledge Service was to integrate e‐collections.

Methods

To ensure equitable and cost‐effective access to an extended collection, an audit of pre‐existing e‐collections was conducted. Electronic licence agreements enabling cross‐site access were negotiated. A new OpenAthens ID was created.

Results

The integration of e‐collections enabled Trust staff access to a greater number of e‐journals and additional e‐content, and an overall cost‐saving was achieved.

Discussion

This case study supports existing literature stating that integrating collections increases the number of e‐journals. It further identifies cost‐difference in acquiring cross‐site access to e‐journals compared to databases providing full‐text e‐journals and additional e‐content.

Conclusion

Integrating e‐collections enables equity of access and value. A national co‐ordinated approach to procurement of e‐collections will further support equity and best value throughout NHS LKS.
Application of the Behavioural Indicators of Pain Scale in patients with traumatic brain injury
Authors: López‐López Candelas , Arranz‐Esteban Antonio , Arias‐Rivera Susana , Solís‐Muñoz Montserrat , Pérez‐Pérez Teresa , Latorre‐Marco Ignacio
Published: April 2020

Aim

To develop and psychometrically test the Behavioural Indicators of Pain Scale (ESCID) in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Design

A prospective observational study to test the psychometric properties of the Behavioural Indicators of Pain Scale in patients with TBI.

Method

A convenience sample of patients with TBI, who were non‐communicative and using invasive mechanical ventilation was selected. Pain was evaluated by two observers who were blinded from each other. Assessments were performed at baseline via the performance of a painful procedure (aspiration of secretions) and a non‐painful procedure (rubbing with a gauze). Assessments were repeated after application of procedures on days 1 and 6 of hospitalization in an intensive care unit. Data were collected between January–December 2016.

Results

About 134 patients were included in the study. Of these, 76.1% were men. The mean age of participants was 45.2 (SD 17.5) years. The pain score significantly increased during the painful procedure when compared with the baseline measure and non‐painful procedure (p < .001). Patients displayed a greater number of pain‐indicating behaviours during the painful procedure on day 6, compared with day 1 (p < .05). This finding coincided with a reduced level of sedation and a greater level of consciousness.

Conclusion

The ESCID scale detects pain behaviours and discriminates among the different types of stimulation in patients with brain injury, who are uncommunicative and with mechanical ventilation, with good reliability. The ability for patients with brain injury to express behaviours is limited because of the low level of consciousness and the deep level of sedation.

Impact

This research will have an impact on the practice of pain assessment in patients with brain injury, representing a first step to adapt the content of the ESCID.
While We Are Waiting for the Superbug: Constitutional Asymmetry and EU Governmental Policies to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Jensen Carsten Strøby
Published: April 2020

This article analyses how constitutional asymmetry in EU health policy affects EU‐governmental initiatives to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR has been viewed as one of the biggest threats to public health that will arise during the next two to three decades, both within the EU and globally. During the last decade the EU has taken a number of initiatives to combat AMR. The article finds that constitutional asymmetry in health policy has a major influence on how EU‐AMR policies are developed and implemented. Policies relating to promotion initiatives (like selling pharmaceuticals in the EU) are implemented through hard law types of governance (directives and regulations), while policies more directly aiming at reducing the consumption of antimicrobials are implemented through soft law initiatives (open methods of coordination).
Facilitators and barriers to adherence to gluten‐free diet among adults with celiac disease: a systematic review
Authors: Abu‐Janb N. , Jaana M.
Published: April 2020

Background

Coeliac disease (CD) is a chronic, autoimmune disease that prevents individuals from processing gluten, leading to adverse health effects. People with CD should adhere to a gluten‐free diet (GFD); however, adherence rates are well below optimal in adults with CD, ranging between 42% and 91%. To date, limited evidence is available on the nature and magnitude of factors that affect adherence to GFD. The present study aimed to develop a systematic review that critically appraises and synthesises evidence on facilitators and barriers that affect adherence to GFD among adults with CD.

Methods

Four databases were searched (Ovid Medline, CINAHL, PsychInfo and Embase) using variant keywords to identify empirical studies meeting the inclusion/exclusion criteria. A coding scheme was developed to extract relevant information from each article.

Results

Forty articles were included. Grounded in the bioecological theory of development, we synthesised the facilitators and barriers in the literature into a social ecological model with multiple levels: system, community, organisational, interpersonal and individual. The studies varied by design and level of evidence; only one randomised trial was identified. The most significant facilitators include (% of studies): increased education (22.5%); increased knowledge of a GFD (20%); increased intention/self‐regulatory efficacy (17.5%); and coeliac association membership (12.5%). The most significant barriers include: lower knowledge of CD (35%); restaurant/supermarket shopping (30%); poor patient education from practitioner (17.5%); and low intention/motivation to adhere to a GFD (17.5%).

Conclusions

Improving knowledge of a GFD, becoming a member of a coeliac association, and improving practitioners’ abilities to educate patients on CD will create opportunities for improved adherence to GFD among adults with CD.
Quality of complementary feeding and its effect on nutritional status in preterm infants: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ribas S. A. , de Rodrigues M. C. C. , Mocellin M. C. , Marques E. S. , da Rosa G. P. C. , Maganha C. R.
Published: April 2020

Background

The first 2 years of life represent a critical phase for growth and development, with the quality of the diet at this stage having repercussions throughout adulthood. The present study aimed to develop an Index for Measuring the Quality of Complementary Feeding (IMQCF) for infants, as well as to evaluate diet quality and its effects on the nutritional status of preterm infants.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted at a Brazilian University Hospital. The data were extracted by care protocol of outpatient preterm infants at 2 years of corrected age (CA). Dietary data were collected from 24‐h recalls. The diet quality was assessed by the IMQCF composed of nine items based on a Brazilian Food Guide for children aged <2 years. Response options were scored 0–100, with scores closer to 100 representing a better quality diet. Association with growth indicators (Z‐scores for weight‐ and length‐for‐age (WAZ and LAZ) were evaluated via tests of mean difference and multiple linear regression.

Results

The median complementary feeding (CF) score was 72.2 (61.1–77.8) A shorter breastfeeding duration or infant formula use and the early introduction of wheat‐based foods, ultra‐processed foods and cow’s milk in the preterm’s diet were the main factors interfering in the adequacy of diet. There was an association between the quality of the diet score and WAZ (0.44; 95% confidence interval = 0.03–0.85; P = 0.03).

Conclusions

The introduction of poor quality food in the first 2 years of life interfered with the CF quality of preterm infants and can affect nutritional status at 2 years of CA, possibly in the long term.
Good debts, bad debts: Microcredit and managing debt in rural south India
Authors: Carswell Grace , De Neve Geert , Ponnarasu Subramanian
Published: April 2020

This paper engages with debates around microcredit, once a development success story, but now much critiqued. Arguing that microcredit can only be understood within the wider context of debt, we draw on ethnographic material from two villages in Tamil Nadu, to examine how microcredit through self‐help groups sits within a broader context of indebtedness among the rural labouring classes. We describe patterns and sources of borrowing among the poor, the ways in which debts are managed, negotiated and settled within households and the ways in which the management of debt is mediated by gender, caste, class and aspiration. The paper calls for a more nuanced understanding of debt: some debts are seen as ‘good’ and others as ‘bad’. We explore the ways in which microcredit, channelled through self‐help groups, is—against much contemporary criticism—perceived by women borrowers in our study villages as a source of ‘good debt’ and praised as an enabling factor in their everyday household management as well as in aspirations for mobility and development. We also argue that microcredit can have positive impacts by enabling social investments that enhance status and reduce dependency.
Effect of feeding frequency on the white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei during the pilot‐scale nursery phase of a superintensive culture in a biofloc system
Authors: Wasielesky Wilson , Bezerra Aline , Poersch Luis , Hoffling Flávia Banderó , Krummenauer Dariano
Published: April 2020

Feeding frequencies influence growth and feeding efficiencies and thus knowing the optimal protocol is important to minimize operational costs. The present study evaluated different feeding frequencies during the pilot‐scale nursery phase of a biofloc system: T1 (1 feeding/day), T3 (3 feedings/day), and T6 (6 feedings/day), each with three replicates. In a greenhouse with nine 35 m2 tanks, the postlarvae of Litopenaeus vannamei with a mean weight of 0.037  g were stocked at a density of 2,000 shrimp m−2. Feeding rate was adjusted according to the shrimp biomass. Parameters of water quality, microorganisms, and production performance of shrimp were monitored. The experiment lasted 40 days. Data on the water quality, final weight, survival, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) showed no differences among the T1, T3, and T6 treatments, respectively (p > .05). The results show that it is possible to reduce the feeding frequency during the nursery phase without affecting the water quality and the growth performance of shrimp.
(Implicit) Knowledge, reasons, and semantic understanding
Authors: Waights Hickman Natalia
Published: April 2020

This paper exploits recent work on the normative and constitutive roles of knowledge in practical rationality, to put pressure on the idea that speakers could communicate without exploiting linguisticknowledge. I defend cognitivism about meaning, the view that speakers haverationally accessible(i.e., implicit rather than tacit) knowledge of semantic facts and principles, and that this knowledge is constitutive of their linguistic competence.
Purgative/laxative actions of Globularia alypum aqueous extract on gastrointestinal‐physiological function and against loperamide‐induced constipation coupled to oxidative stress and inflammation in rats
Authors: Hajji Najla , Wannes Dalanda , Jabri Mohamed‐Amine , Rtibi Kais , Tounsi Haifa , Abdellaoui Afifa , Sebai Hichem
Published: April 2020

Background

Chronic constipation is a gastrointestinal functional disorder which affects patient quality of life. Therefore, many studies were oriented to search herbal laxative agents. In this study, we investigated the effect of Globularia alypum L. leaves aqueous extract (GAAE) against loperamide (LOP)‐produced constipation.

Methods

Animals were given LOP (3 mg/kg, b.w., i.p.) and GAAE (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, b.w., p.o.) or yohimbine (2 mg/kg, b.w., i.p.), simultaneously, for 1 week. Gastric‐emptying test and intestinal transit were determined. Colon histology was examined, and oxidative status was evaluated using biochemical‐colorimetric methods.

Key Results

GAAE ameliorates significantly gastric emptying (64% to 76.5%) and intestinal transit (66.65% to 84.73%). LOP negatively influenced defecation parameters and generated a stress situation. GAAE administration in contrast ameliorated those parameters and re‐established oxidative balance.

Conclusion

GAAE showed a modest action against oxidative stress and decreased LOP effect and thereby can be considered a pharmacological agent in constipation.
Reflections on Modeling Poliovirus Transmission and the Polio Eradication Endgame
Authors: Thompson Kimberly M. , Kalkowska Dominika A.
Published: April 2020

The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) partners engaged modelers during the past nearly 20 years to support strategy and policy discussions and decisions, and to provide estimates of the risks, costs, and benefits of different options for managing the polio endgame. Limited efforts to date provided insights related to the validation of the models used for GPEI strategy and policy decisions. However, modeling results only influenced decisions in some cases, with other factors carrying more weight in many key decisions. In addition, the results from multiple modeling groups do not always agree, which supports selection of some strategies and/or policies counter to the recommendations from some modelers but not others. This analysis reflects on our modeling, and summarizes our premises and recommendations, the outcomes of these recommendations, and the implications of key limitations of models with respect to polio endgame strategy. We briefly review the current state of the GPEI given epidemiological experience as of early 2020, which includes failure of the GPEI to deliver on the objectives of its 2013–2018 strategic plan despite full financial support. Looking ahead, we provide context for why the GPEI strategy of global oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) cessation to end all cases of poliomyelitis looks infeasible given the current state of the GPEI and the failure to successfully stop all transmission of serotype 2 live polioviruses within four years of the April–May 2016 coordinated cessation of serotype 2 OPV use in routine immunization.
Post‐exposure rabies prophylaxis for mass bat exposures: Case series and systematic review
Authors: Choe Young June , Teevan Bridget , Smit Michael , Quilliam Daniela , Bandy Utpala , Mermel Leonard
Published: April 2020

To assess and describe the use of rabies post‐exposure prophylaxis (PEP) related to mass bat exposures (MBEs) in the literature and in the state of Rhode Island. Data on MBE events occurring between 2010 and 2016 from the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) were reviewed to determine PEP usage. For comparison, a systematic review was also performed by searching PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Web of Science using the keywords ‘rabies,’ ‘bat’ and ‘exposure.’ There were three MBE events in Rhode Island between 2010 and 2016 in which groups of individuals were asleep during the potential exposure. As a result, RIDOH provided PEP to those involved in the event. In a systematic review of 12 published reports, a variety of settings were involved in MBEs: camping sites, a domestic flight, a neonatal intensive care unit and dormitories. The number of potential rabies exposures ranged from five to 1,429 people. PEP recommendations for assessed persons ranged from 0% to 100% across events (median 21%). The variation in PEP recommendations following a MBE may be dependent on medical need, past precedent or preference. Federal guidance for MBE is needed to add clarity and to minimize the variability in PEP recommendations for such events in the future.
Placental fatty acid transport across late gestation in a baboon model of intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: Chassen Stephanie S. , Ferchaud‐Roucher Veronique , Palmer Claire , Li Cun , Jansson Thomas , Nathanielsz Peter W. , Powell Theresa L.
Published: April 2020

Key points

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with perinatal morbidity and increased risk of lifelong disease, including neurodevelopmental impairment.

Fatty acids (FA) are critical for normal brain development, although their transport across the placenta in IUGR pregnancies is poorly understood.

The present study used a baboon model of IUGR (maternal nutrient restriction, MNR) to investigate placental expression of FA transport and binding proteins, and to determine gestational age‐related changes in maternal and fetal plasma FA concentrations.

We found MNR to be associated with increased placental expression of FA binding and transport proteins in late gestation, with fetal plasma FA concentrations that were similar to those of control animals.

The present study is the first to report a profile of fetal and maternal plasma FA concentrations in a baboon model of growth restriction with data that suggest adaptation of placental transport to maintain delivery of critically needed FA.

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with specific changes in placental transport of amino acids, folate and ions. However, little is known about placental fatty acid (FA) transport in IUGR. We hypothesized that placental FA transport proteins (FATP) and FA binding proteins (FABP) are up‐regulated and fetal plasma FA concentrations are decreased at term in a baboon model of IUGR. Pregnant baboons were fed control or maternal nutrient restricted (MNR) diet (70% of control calories) from gestation day (GD) 30 (term 184 days). Plasma and placental samples were collected at GD120 (control n = 8, MNR n = 9), GD140 (control n = 6, MNR n = 7) and GD170 (control n = 6, MNR n = 6). Placentas were homogenized, and syncytiotrophoblast microvillous plasma membrane (MVM) and basal plasma membranes (BM) were isolated. Protein expression of FABP1, 3, 4 and 5 (homogenate) and FATP2, 4, and 6 (MVM, BM) was determined by Western blotting. FA content in maternal and umbilical vein plasma was measured by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Placental FABP1 and FABP5 expression was increased in MNR compared to controls at GD170, as was MVM FATP2 and FATP6 expression at GD140 and FATP2 expression at GD170. BM FATP4 and FATP6 expression was increased in MNR at GD140. Fetal plasma FA concentrations were similar in controls and MNR. These data suggest the adaptation of placental transport when aiming to maintain delivery of critically needed FAs for fetal growth and brain development.
Effects of Weld Geometry Size on the Pressure-Bearing Capacity of an API X80 LSAW Pipe
Authors: Qiao Gui-ying , Liu Yu-meng , Wang Jun-si , Xiao Fu-ren
Published: April 2020

The weld joint is the weakest zone of a longitudinal-seam submerged arc welded (LSAW) pipe, which has great effects on its in-service properties and safety. The weld geometry and shape of the weld joint are important factors that affect the mechanical properties of the pipe. In this work, two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) finite element models (FEMs) of a large-diameter, heavy-wall API X80 LSAW pipe were established, and the stress distribution of the pipe was calculated to simulate the in-service gas transmission pipeline. Results showed that the stress distribution calculated by both 2D and 3D models are similar. Consequently, the effects of weld geometry, softening of heat affected zone (HAZ), and strength matching of the weld joint on bearing pressure capability of the pipe were analyzed, and the results showed that the bearing pressure capability of the pipe can be improved by controlling these parameters. These results are beneficial in providing references for welding parameter design and improved properties of the X80 LSAW pipe.
Emergence of Mycobacterium leprae Rifampin Resistance Evaluated by Whole-Genome Sequencing after 48 Years of Irregular Treatment
Authors: Avanzi Charlotte , Maia Raquel Cristina , Benjak Andrej , Nery José Augusto , Sales Anna Maria , Miranda Alice , Duppre Nadia Cristina , Nogueira Brum Fontes Amanda , Pereira da Silva Tatiana , Olmo Pinheiro Roberta , Neves-Manta Fernanda , Moreira Suelen Justo Maria , Busso Philippe , Sarno Euzenir Nunes , Suffys Phillip Noel , Cole Stewart Thomas , Moraes Milton Ozório
Published: April 2020

A case of
Mycobacterium leprae
rifampin resistance after irregular antileprosy treatments since 1971 is reported. Whole-genome sequencing from four longitudinal samples indicated relapse due to acquired rifampin resistance and not to reinfection with another strain. A putative compensatory mutation in
rpoC
was also detected. Clinical improvement was achieved using an alternative therapy.
Optimization of an Experimental Vaccine To Prevent Escherichia coli Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Forsyth Valerie S. , Himpsl Stephanie D. , Smith Sara N. , Sarkissian Christina A. , Mike Laura A. , Stocki Jolie A. , Sintsova Anna , Alteri Christopher J. , Mobley Harry L. T.
Published: April 2020

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are among the most common bacterial infection in humans, affecting half of all women at least once during their lifetimes. The rise in antibiotic resistance and health care costs emphasizes the need to develop a vaccine against the most common UTI pathogen,Escherichia coli. Vaccinating mice intranasally with a detoxified heat-labile enterotoxin and two surface-exposed receptors, Hma or IutA, significantly reduced bacterial burden in the bladder. This work highlights progress in the development of a UTI vaccine formulated with adjuvants suitable for human use and antigens that encode outer membrane iron receptors required for infection in the iron-limited urinary tract.
Complete Genome Sequence of Community-Acquired Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Strain RJ1267, Isolated in Shanghai, China
Authors: Zong Xianchun , Liu Dehua , Li Min , Sun Baolin
Published: April 2020

Staphylococcal pathogens, especially multidrug-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
, are responsible for various clinical infections. Multilocus sequence type 630 (ST630) methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
has been shown to have augmented pathogenicity in humans. In this announcement, we report the complete genome sequence of community-acquired methicillin-resistant strain RJ1267 of
Staphylococcus aureus
ST630.
What drives large-scale glacier detachments? Insights from Flat Creek glacier, St. Elias Mountains, Alaska
Authors: Jacquemart Mylène , Loso Michael , Leopold Matthias , Welty Ethan , Berthier Etienne , Hansen Jasmine S.S. , Sykes John , Tiampo Kristy
Published: April 2020

Two large-scale glacier detachments occurred at the peaks of the 2013 and 2015 CE melt seasons, releasing a cumulative 24.4–31.3 × 106 m3 of ice and lithic material from Flat Creek glacier, St. Elias Mountains, Alaska. Both events produced highly mobile and destructive flows with runout distances of more than 11 km. Our results suggest that four main factors led to the initial detachment in 2013: abnormally high meltwater input, an easily erodible glacier bed, inefficient subglacial drainage due to a cold-ice tongue, and increased driving stresses stemming from an internal redistribution of ice after 2011. Under a drastically altered stress regime, the stability of the glacier remained sensitive to water inputs thereafter, culminating in a second detachment in 2015. The similarities with two large detachments in the Aru mountains of Tibet suggest that these detachments were caused by a common mechanism, driven by unusually high meltwater inputs. As meltwater production increases with rising temperatures, the possible increase in frequency of glacier detachments has direct implications for risk management in glaciated regions.
Stacked sills forming a deep melt-mush feeder conduit beneath Axial Seamount
Authors: Carbotte Suzanne M. , Arnulf Adrien , Spiegelman Marc , Lee Michelle , Harding Alistair , Kent Graham , Canales Juan Pablo , Nedimović Mladen
Published: April 2020

Magmatic systems are composed of melt accumulations and crystal mush that evolve with melt transport, contributing to igneous processes, volcano dynamics, and eruption triggering. Geophysical studies of active volcanoes have revealed details of shallow-level melt reservoirs, but little is known about fine-scale melt distribution at deeper levels dominated by crystal mush. Here, we present new seismic reflection images from Axial Seamount, northeastern Pacific Ocean, revealing a 3–5-km-wide conduit of vertically stacked melt lenses, with near-regular spacing of 300–450 m extending into the inferred mush zone of the mid-to-lower crust. This column of lenses underlies the shallowest melt-rich portion of the upper-crustal magma reservoir, where three dike intrusion and eruption events initiated. The pipe-like zone is similar in geometry and depth extent to the volcano inflation source modeled from geodetic records, and we infer that melt ascent by porous flow focused within the melt lens conduit led to the inflation-triggered eruptions. The multiple near-horizontal lenses are interpreted as melt-rich layers formed via mush compaction, an interpretation supported by one-dimensional numerical models of porous flow in a viscoelastic matrix.
Submandibular lymphadenitis due toMycobacterium malmoense: first reported case from Greece
Authors: Mantadakis Elpis , Soultanidis Chrysostomos , Christidou Athanasia , Maraki Sofia
Published: April 2020

An 8-year-old girl with subacute submandibular lymphadenitis and no other complaints is described. After failure of parenteral antistaphylococcal therapy, she underwent incision and drainage of the involved lymph node. The responsible pathogen was identified asMycobacterium malmoenseby GenoType CM assay and sequencing of the 16S ribosomalRNA (rRNA) gene. The patient remains healthy, 11 months after surgery, even though it took approximately 4 months for the surgical incision to heal completely. WhileM. malmoenseis a relatively common cause of non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) lymphadenitis in Northern Europe, this is the first reported case from Greece. We conclude that in a young child with lymphadenitis without systemic symptoms, the microbiology laboratory should be notified in advance in order to extend the duration of mycobacterial cultures. Application of molecular methods will increase the number of reported cases of rare NTM in the future.
Heat acclimatisation on UK exercise SAIF SAREEA 3
Authors: Smith Michael , White S
Published: April 2020

UK Exercise SAIF SAREEA 3 saw components of first Armoured Infantry Brigade conduct kinetic armoured infantry manoeuvres in Oman in temperatures that at times exceeded 50°C. This paper presents the methods of acclimatisation, recreational physical training in the heat, and reacclimatisation training conducted in theatre during this exercise. In order to reduce the risk of heat illness, individuals underwent either validated heat acclimatisation training in accordance with current policy, or adapted training as dictated by musculoskeletal restrictions or job specification. Direction was issued regarding recreational training. There was a theatre medical consensus agreed for the practice of returning soldiers to the exercise after admission to a medical treatment facility due to the effects of heat and data were collated on all LAND (Army) acclimatisation and heat illness presentations. The rates of climatic effect were much lower than expected in the medical estimate based on Exercise SAIF SAREEA 2 and similar exercises. Only five LAND patients fulfilled the in-theatre case definition of exertional heat illness of a deployed LAND forces population at risk of 2550. Zero patients who were returned to the exercise after symptoms associated with climatic exposure were subsequently readmitted with heat illness.
Prevalence of mental health conditions, sensory impairments and physical disability in people with co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism compared with other people: a cross-sectional total population study in Scotland
Authors: Dunn Kirsty , Rydzewska Ewelina , Fleming Michael , Cooper Sally-Ann
Published: April 2020

Objectives

To investigate prevalence of mental health conditions, sensory impairments and physical disability in children, adults and older adults with co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism, given its frequent co-occurrence, compared with the general population.

Design

Whole country cohort study.

Setting

General community.

Participants

5709 people with co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism, compared with 5 289 694 other people.

Outcome measures

Rates and ORs with 95% CIs for mental health conditions, visual impairment, hearing impairment and physical disability in people with co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism compared with other people, adjusted for age, sex and interaction between age and co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism.

Results

All four long-term conditions were markedly more common in children, adults and older adults with co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism compared with other people. For mental health, OR=130.8 (95% CI 117.1 to 146.1); visual impairment OR=65.9 (95% CI 58.7 to 73.9); hearing impairment OR=22.0 (95% CI 19.2 to 25.2); and physical disability OR=157.5 (95% CI 144.6 to 171.7). These ratios are also greater than previously reported for people witheitherintellectual disabilitiesorautism rather than co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism.

Conclusions

We have quantified the more than double disadvantage for people with co-occurring intellectual disabilities and autism, in terms of additional long-term health conditions. This may well impact on quality of life. It raises challenges for staff working with these people in view of additional complexity in assessments, diagnoses and interventions of additional health conditions, as sensory impairments and mental health conditions in particular, compound with the persons pre-existing communication and cognitive problems in this context. Planning is important, with staff being trained, equipped, resourced and prepared to address the challenge of working for people with these conditions.
Text messages for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease: the TextMe2 randomised controlled trial protocol
Authors: Klimis Harry , Thiagalingam Aravinda , Chow Clara K
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Mobile health may be an effective means of delivering customised individually directed health promotion interventions for cardiovascular disease (CVD) primary prevention. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a lifestyle-focused text messaging programme for primary CVD prevention.

Methods and analysis

Single-blind randomised controlled trial with 6 months’ follow-up in 246 patients with moderate-high absolute cardiovascular risk and without coronary heart disease recruited from a rapid access cardiology clinic. Participants will be randomised to receive either usual care or TextMe2 (text message-based prevention programme). The TextMe2 programme provides support, motivation and education on five topics: diet, physical activity, smoking, general cardiovascular health and medication adherence, and is delivered in four text messages per week over 6 months. The primary outcome is change in the proportion of patients who have three or more of five key modifiable risk factors that are uncontrolled (low-density lipoprotein >2.0 mmol/L, systolic blood pressure >140 mm Hg, body mass index >24.9 kg/m2, physical activity (less than the equivalent of 150 min of moderate intensity each week), current smoker). Secondary outcomes are changes in single biomedical risk factors, behavioural risk factors, quality of life, depression/anxiety scores, medication adherence, cardiovascular health literacy and hospital readmissions/representations. Analysis will be according to the intention-to-treat principle and full statistical analysis plan developed prior to data lock.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Western Sydney Local Health District Human Research Ethics Committee at Westmead (AU/RED/HREC/17/WMEAD/186). Results will be presented at scientific meetings and published in peer-reviewed publications.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12618001153202.
Growth and mortality response of forest regeneration to partial harvesting varies by species’ shade tolerance
Authors: Bose Arun K. , Nelson Andrew S. , Olson Matthew G.
Published: April 2020

Does species’ shade tolerance regulate natural regeneration abundance and composition when partial harvestings (≤80% of basal area removal) are operated on a landscape scale? We examined this question using 835 permanent plots located across forested landscapes of Maine, USA. These plots were surveyed for regeneration growth, mortality, and recruitment before and after treatment application (i.e., partially harvested and unharvested). Our results showed that relative to unharvested stands, high-intensity partial harvesting (41%–80% of basal area removal) increased the number of seedlings (diameter at breast height (DBH) < 2.5 cm) recruited to saplings (DBH of 2.5–12.69 cm) and sapling diameter growth irrespective of species’ shade tolerance over a 15-year period after treatment. However, high-intensity partial harvesting increased sapling mortality during the initial 5 years since harvesting, whereas low-intensity partial harvesting (5%–40% of basal area removal) maintained the natural regeneration dynamics (growth, recruitment, and mortality) of unharvested stands. We found that harvesting intensity, basal area, and seedling density by shade-tolerance group before harvesting are more important attributes than species’ shade tolerance for determining the responses of natural regeneration to partial harvesting. The greater importance of preharvest stand attributes on postharvest regeneration may suggest an integrated overstory and understory manipulation approach for attaining the desired regeneration composition.
Self-Adaptive Optimization for Improved Data Sanitization and Restoration
Authors: Navale Geeta S. , Mali Suresh N.
Published: April 2020

Nowadays, Data Sanitization is considered as a highly demanded area for solving the issue of privacy preservation in Data mining. Data Sanitization, means that the sensitive rules given by the users with the specific modifications and then releases the modified database so that, the unauthorized users cannot access the sensitive rules. Promisingly, the confidentiality of data is ensured against the data mining methods. The ultimate goal of this paper is to build an effective sanitization algorithm for hiding the sensitive rules given by users/experts. Meanwhile, this paper concentrates on minimizing the four sanitization research challenges namely, rate of hiding failure, rate of Information loss, rate of false rule generation and degree of modification. Moreover, this paper proposes a heuristic optimization algorithm named Self-Adaptive Firefly (SAFF) algorithm to generate the small length key for data sanitization and also to adopt lossless data sanitization and restoration. The generated optimized key is used for both data sanitation as well as the data restoration process. The proposed SAFF-based algorithm is compared and examined against the other existing sanitizing algorithms like Fire Fly (FF), Genetic Algorithm (GA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Differential Evolution algorithm (DE) algorithms and the results have shown the excellent performance of proposed algorithm. The proposed algorithm is implemented in JAVA. The data set used are Chess, Retail, T10, and T40.
A New Fine-Kinney Method Based on Clustering Approach
Authors: Dagsuyu Cansu , Oturakci Murat , Essiz Esra Sarac
Published: April 2020

In this study, a new approach to Fine-Kinney risk assessment method is developed in order to overcome the limitations of the conventional method with clustering algorithms. New risk level of classes are attempted to determine with K-Means and Hierarchical clustering algorithms with using two different distance functions which are Euclidean and Manhattan distances. According to the results, K-Means algorithms have provided accurate and sensitive cluster of classes. Classes from conventional and K-Means algorithms are applied and compared to the identified risks of a workshop of a medium sized textile company. Results of the study indicate that clustering techniques are new, original and applicable way to define new classes in order to prioritize risks by overcoming the drawbacks of conventional Fine-Kinney method.
Mobile Health Monitoring of Cardiac Status
Authors: Christle Jeffrey W. , Hershman Steven G. , Torres Soto Jessica , Ashley Euan A.
Published: April 2020

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are responsible for more deaths than any other cause, with coronary heart disease and stroke accounting for two-thirds of those deaths. Morbidity and mortality due to CVD are largely preventable, through either primary prevention of disease or secondary prevention of cardiac events. Monitoring cardiac status in healthy and diseased cardiovascular systems has the potential to dramatically reduce cardiac illness and injury. Smart technology in concert with mobile health platforms is creating an environment where timely prevention of and response to cardiac events are becoming a reality.
Using Single-Cell and Spatial Transcriptomes to Understand Stem Cell Lineage Specification During Early Embryo Development
Authors: Peng Guangdun , Cui Guizhong , Ke Jincan , Jing Naihe
Published: April 2020

Embryonic development and stem cell differentiation provide a paradigm to understand the molecular regulation of coordinated cell fate determination and the architecture of tissue patterning. Emerging technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics are opening new avenues to dissect cell organization, the divergence of morphological and molecular properties, and lineage allocation. Rapid advances in experimental and computational tools have enabled researchers to make many discoveries and revisit old hypotheses. In this review, we describe the use of single-cell RNA sequencing in studies of molecular trajectories and gene regulation networks for stem cell lineages, while highlighting the integratedexperimental and computational analysis of single-cell and spatial transcriptomes in the molecular annotation of tissue lineages and development during postimplantation gastrulation.
XGBDeepFM for CTR Predictions in Mobile Advertising Benefits from Ad Context
Authors: An Han , Ren Jifan
Published: April 2020

The problem of click-through rate (CTR) prediction in mobile advertising is one of the most informative metrics used in mobile business activities, such as profit evaluation and resource management. In mobile advertising, CTR prediction is essential but challenging due to data sparsity. Moreover, existing methods often have difficulty in capturing the different orders of feature interactions simultaneously. In this study, a method was developed to obtain accurate CTR prediction by incorporating contextual features and feature interactions. We initially use extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) as a feature engineering phase to select highly significant features. The selected features are mobile contextual attributes including time contextual, geography contextual, and other contextual attributes (e.g., weather condition) in actual mobile advertising situations. Our model, XGBoost deep factorization machine- (FM-) supported neutral network (XGBDeepFM), combines the power of XGBoost for feature selection, FM for two-order cross feature interaction, and the deep neural network for high-order feature learning in a united architecture. In a mobile advertising condition, our methods lead to significantly accurate CTR prediction in “wide and deep” type of model. In comparison with existing models, many experiments on commercial datasets show that the XGBDeepFM model has better value of area under curve and improves the effectiveness and efficiency of CTR prediction for mobile advertising.
Repair of Tea Polysaccharide Promotes the Endocytosis of Nanocalcium Oxalate Monohydrate by Damaged HK-2 Cells
Authors: Li Chuang-Ye , Liu Li , Zhao Yao-Wang , Peng Qian-Long , Sun Xin-Yuan , Guo Da , Ouyang Jian-Ming
Published: April 2020

Endocytosis is a protective mechanism of renal epithelial cells to eliminate retained crystals. This research investigated the endocytosis of 100 nm calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals in human kidney proximal tubular epithelial (HK-2) cells before and after repair by four kinds of tea polysaccharides with molecular weights (MWs) of 10.88 (TPS0), 8.16 (TPS1), 4.82 (TPS2), and 2.31 kDa (TPS3), respectively. When HK-2 cells were repaired by TPSs after oxalic acid injury, the cell viability, wound healing ability, mitochondrial membrane potential, percentage of cells with endocytosed crystals, and dissolution rate of the endocytosed crystals increased; the cell morphology recovered; and the reactive oxygen level and lactate dehydrogenase release decreased. Most of the endocytosed crystals were found in the lysosomes. The repair effects of the four TPSs were ranked in the following order: TPS2>TPS1>TPS3>TPS0. TPS2 with moderate MW presented the optimal repair ability and strongest ability to promote endocytosis.
Scheduling Just-in-Time Transport Vehicles to Feed Parts for Mixed Model Assembly Lines
Authors: Peng Yunfang , Zeng Tian , Han Yajuan , Xia Beixin
Published: April 2020

In order to solve the problem of vehicle scheduling to feed parts at automobile assembly line, this study proposes a just-in-time delivery method combined with the mode of material supermarket. A mixed integer linear programming model with the primary objective of using the least number of tow trains is constructed by considering capacity of vehicle and inventory levels of line. On the basis of the minimum number of tow trains, the schedule of each tour is reasonably planned to minimize inventory of assembly line, which is the secondary objective of the part supply problem. Additionally, a heuristic algorithm which can obtain a satisfactory solution in a short time is designed to solve large-scale problems after considering continuity and complexity of modern automobile production. Furthermore, some cases are analyzed and compared with the widely used periodic delivery strategy, and the feasibility of just-in-time model and algorithm is verified. The results reveal that just-in-time delivery strategy has more advantages in reducing inventory level than periodic delivery strategy.