bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural Heterogeneity in Source Zones of the 2018 Anchorage Intraslab Earthquake and the 1964 Alaska Megathrust Earthquake
Authors: Gou Tao , Zhao Dapeng , Huang Zhouchuan , Wang Liangshu
Published: February 2020

Structural heterogeneities in subduction zones can affect slip behaviors of the megathrust faults and the generation of intraslab earthquakes. In this work we study the 3‐D seismic structures (Vp, Vs, and Poisson's ratio) in and around the source zones of the 2018 Anchorage intraslab earthquake (Mw 7.1) and the 1964 Alaska megathrust earthquake (Mw 9.2). The Anchorage earthquake occurred in an anomalous zone within the subducting Yakutat/Pacific plate with a higher Poisson's ratio than the normal slab. Above the source zone, the overriding North American plate shows a low Vs and a high Poisson's ratio. These features indicate that strong dehydration occurs in the source zone and released fluids ascend into the overlying crust. Two areas with long‐term slow slip events in the Upper and Lower Cook Inlet predominantly exhibit a high Poisson's ratio in the lowermost portion of the crust and the cold nose of the mantle wedge, whereas a low Poisson's ratio zone is revealed between them, suggesting that their segmentation is possibly related to localized slab‐releasing fluids. In the Prince William Sound, the rupture of the 1964 Great Alaska earthquake initiated beneath a high‐V and high Poisson's ratio zone of the overlying crust and the large slips occurred beneath a low‐Vs and high Poisson's ratio zone, suggesting that lateral heterogeneities of the overriding plate may have played an important role in the nucleation and rupture processes of the Great Alaska earthquake.
Comparative Investigation of the Digisonde‐Derived Electron Density and IRI Profiles at a Station Near the African Magnetic Equator During LowSolar Activity
Authors: Adebiyi S. J. , Adeniyi J. O. , Adebesin B. O. , Ikubanni S. O. , Adimula I. A. , Oladipo O. A. , Olawepo A. O. , Adekoya B. J. , Joshua B. W.
Published: February 2020

Information about the altitudinal distribution of ionospheric electron density (Ne) in the African equatorial region is very scanty. Such information is vital in modeling of key ionospheric parameters and in solving problems associated with ionospheric effect on the applications that depend on space‐based positioning and navigation systems. For the first time in the region, the entire Ne profile estimated by IRI is evaluated with profile deduced from Digisonde measurements at Ilorin (geog. 8.50°N, 4.50°E; dip. −7.9°) during low solar activity condition. Results obtained indicate marked discrepancies between the two profiles with magnitudes revealing local time and altitudinal and seasonal trends. The largest discrepancies are found between the post‐sunset and sunrise hours regardless of the seasons. IRI underestimates the Ne around the F1 region and is most obvious in September equinox and December solstice with deviation up to −42%. Further, IRI overestimates the Ne around the F2 peak at daytime, mostly in solstices with maximum deviation of 26% at F2 peak. All the three IRI topside models generally underestimate Ne between ~F2 peak height and ~800 km in all seasons except in June solstice. Beyond 800 km, the Digisonde, IRI‐NeQuick, and IRI‐2001 Corr profiles tend to converge, whereas the IRI‐2001 profiles still show marked divergence from the Digisonde profile in all seasons. Overall, the IRI‐NeQuick gives the best topside representation at this station at daytime/nighttime. The comparative analysis of Digisonde‐TEC and GPS‐TEC suggests that the Digisonde alone may not give a reliable estimate of the nighttime topside altitudinal distribution of Ne at this location.
Cellulose-Copper Oxide hybrid nanocomposites membranes for H2S gas detection at low temperatures
Authors: Hittini Waseem , Abu-Hani Ayah F. , Reddy N. , Mahmoud Saleh T.
Published: February 2020

We report on novel, sensitive, selective and low-temperature hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas sensors based on metal-oxide nanoparticles incorporated within polymeric matrix composites. The Copper-Oxide (CuO) nanoparticles were prepared by a colloid microwave-assisted hydrothermal method that enables precise control of nanoparticle size. The sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) powder with 5% glycerol ionic liquid (IL) was prepared and mixed with different concentrations of CuO NPs (2.5–7.5 wt.%) to produce flexible and semi-conductive polymeric matrix membranes. Each membrane was then sandwiched between a pair of electrodes to produce an H2S gas sensor. The temperature-dependent gas sensing characteristics of the prepared sensors were investigated over the temperature ranges from 40 °C to 80 °C. The sensors exhibited high sensitivity and reasonably fast responses to H2S gas at low working temperatures and at a low gas concentration of 15 ppm. Moreover, the sensors were highly selective to H2S gas, and they showed low humidity dependence, which indicates reliable functioning in humid atmospheres. This organic-inorganic hybrid-materials gas sensor is flexible, with good sensitivity and low power consumption has the potential to be used in harsh environments.
Review zur Wirksamkeit von geruchlosem Knoblauch
Authors: Vlachojannis Julia , Chrubasik-Hausmann Sigrun
Published: February 2020

In diesem überarbeiteten Review zur Wirksamkeit von geruchlosem Knoblauch wurden 26 Studien hinsichtlich der berücksichtigten Kriterien der Studienqualität extrahiert. Trotz des Vorliegens von 16 qualitativ sehr guten Studien steht der Beweis der Wirksamkeit von Präparaten mit geruchlosem Knoblauch bei den einzelnen Indikationen aus. Nur bei der Indikation „erhöhtes kardiovaskuläres Risiko“ ist die Evidenz der Wirksamkeit „mäßig“, bei allen anderen Indikationen „schlecht“. Damit geruchloser Knoblauch Eingang in die Therapieoptionen findet, ist die Durchführung konfirmatorischer Studien sowie Langzeitstudien mit dem Haupzielkriterium „Mortalität“ dringend erforderlich.
A review of 40 years of interpreting research in China (1978–2018)
Authors: Ren Wen , Cong Guo , Juan Huang
Published: February 2020

Through the methods of literature review and content analysis of mostly journal articles (and occasionally other
types of literature when necessary), this paper is the first to examine and review the 40 years of development in interpreting
research in China (Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan all included) since the adoption of the policy of “reform and
opening up” in 1978. It divides these 40 years of interpreting research in China into three periods: a stage of initial
development (1978–1995), a stage of relatively quick development (1996–2005) and a stage of vigorous growth (2006–2018). Based on
a panoramic view of the general picture, the paper further investigates the popular research topics, major research methods and
main characteristics of each period through a combined quantitative and qualitative approach. Thus, it also showcases the overall
and period-specific characteristics of how interpreting research has progressed in China, as well as the quality and quantity of
the respective research results that were produced in the past 4 decades. This is followed by an analysis of the problems and
insufficiencies that exist in China’s interpreting studies at present. In so doing, the article is finally able to provide advice
for future interpreting research in China.
Drivers of Preference for Evidence-Based PTSD Treatment: A Qualitative Assessment
Authors: Etingen Bella , Grubbs Kathleen M , Harik Juliette M
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Mental health treatment utilization among persons with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) tends to be low but may be improved by aligning treatment with patient preferences. Our objective was to characterize the reasons that drive a person’s selection of a specific evidence-based PTSD treatment.

Materials and Methods

Data were collected using an online survey of adults who screened positive for PTSD. Participants viewed descriptions of five evidence-based PTSD treatments (cognitive processing therapy, prolonged exposure, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, stress inoculation training, antidepressant medication) and identified their most preferred treatment. Participants then explained why they selected their top choice. These free-text responses (n = 249) were analyzed using thematic coding and constant comparative methods.

Results

Identified themes included (1) perceived effectiveness, (2) perceived suitability, (3) requirements of participation, (4) familiarity with the modality, (5) perception of the option as ‘better than alternatives,’ (6) perception of the option as ‘not harmful,’ (7) accessibility, and (8) delivery format. Differences in themes were also examined by treatment modality.

Conclusions

By highlighting which pieces of information may be most important to detail when presenting different treatment options, these results can help guide treatment planning conversations, as well as the development of shared decision-making tools.
Military-Specific Normative Data for Cognitive and Motor Single- and Dual-Task Assessments for Use in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Assessment
Authors: McGrath Morgan K , Linder Susan M , Koop Mandy Miller , Zimmerman Nicole , Ballantyne Maj Aaron J , Ahrendt Dale M , Alberts Jay L
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Military personnel and civilian athletes are both at risk for mild traumatic brain injury. However, these groups are unique in their training and typical daily activities. A fundamental gap in the evaluation of military personnel following mild traumatic brain injury is the lack of military-specific normative reference data. This project aimed to determine if a separate normative sample should be used for military personnel on their performance of the Cleveland Clinic Concussion application and a recently developed dual-task module.

Methods

Data were collected from healthy military personnel (n = 305) and civilians (n = 281) 18 to 30 years of age. Participants completed the following assessments: simple and choice reaction time, Trail Making tests A&B, processing speed test, single-task postural stability, single-task cognitive assessment, and dual-task assessment.

Results

Civilian participants outperformed military service members on all cognitive tasks under single- and dual-task conditions (P ≤ 0.04). The military group outperformed civilians on all postural stability tasks under single- and dual-task conditions (P ≤ 0.01).

Conclusion

Differences in cognitive performance and postural stability measures may be influenced by demographic differences between military and civilian cohorts. Thus, military-specific normative datasets must be established to optimize clinical interpretation of Cleveland Clinic Concussion assessments.
A probabilistic analysis of the Fermi paradox in terms of the Drake formula: the role of the L factor
Authors: Prantzos N
Published: February 2020

In evaluating the number of technological civilizations N in the Galaxy through the Drake formula, emphasis is mostly put on the astrophysical and biotechnological factors describing the emergence of a civilization and much less on its the lifetime, which is intimately related to its demise. It is argued here that this factor is in fact the most important regarding the practical implications of the Drake formula, because it determines the maximal extent of the ‘sphere of influence’ of any technological civilization. The Fermi paradox is studied in the terms of a simplified version of the Drake formula, through Monte Carlo simulations of N civilizations expanding in the Galaxy during their space faring lifetime L. In the framework of that scheme, the probability of ‘direct contact’ is determined as the fraction of the Galactic volume occupied collectively by the ‘spheres of influence’ of N civilizations. The results of the analysis are used to determine regions in the parameter space where the Fermi paradox holds. It is argued that in a large region of the diagram the corresponding parameters suggest rather a ‘weak’ Fermi paradox. Future research may reveal whether a ‘strong’ paradox holds in some part of the parameter space. Finally, it is argued that the value of N is not bound by N = 1 from below, contrary to what is usually assumed, but it may have a statistical interpretation.
Can Physical Characteristics and Sports Bra Use Predict Exercise-Induced Breast Pain in Elite Female Athletes?
Authors: Brisbine Brooke R. , Steele Julie R. , Phillips Elissa J. , McGhee Deirdre E.
Published: February 2020

Objective:

To evaluate whether a simple 4-factor model using self-reported data could be used to predict exercise-induced breast pain in elite female athletes.

Design:

Survey study.

Setting:

Online or hard-copy surveys completed at sporting competitions and training facilities around Australia.

Participants:

Four hundred ninety female athletes competing nationally or internationally across 49 sports.

Independent Variables:

A binomial logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the strength of a predictive model that included 2 continuous independent variables (age and body mass index) and 2 binary independent variables (breast size and sports bra use). Odds ratios were also calculated to determine the likelihood of an athlete reporting exercise-induced breast pain in association with each of the 4 variables.

Main Outcome Measures:

Exercise-induced breast pain was the binary dependent variable.

Results:

The model incorporating athlete age, breast size, body mass index, and sports bra use was found to be statistically significant, but weak, in its ability to predict exercise-induced breast pain in elite female athletes (correctly identified 66% of athletes). For every 1-year increase in age, a significant 2.6% increase in the likelihood of experiencing exercise-induced breast pain was observed. Athletes with medium-to-hypertrophic sized breasts were 5.5 times more likely to experience exercise-induced breast pain than athletes with small breasts.

Conclusions:

Although the current model was not sensitive enough for use by clinicians and coaches, age and breast size were both identified as critical variables in the prediction of exercise-induced breast pain. Future research is encouraged to investigate whether incorporating additional variables such body fat percentage, bra fit, and other relevant factors can add strength to the model.
The association of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Asfari Mohammad Maysara , Talal Sarmini Muhammad , Alomari Mohammad , Lopez Rocio , Dasarathy Srinivasan , McCullough Arthur J.
Published: February 2020

Background

Current guidelines recommend surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in high-risk patients. This high risk is defined by the presence of cirrhosis. However, HCC due to underlying nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), even without progressing to cirrhosis, is a rising concern. Hence, we aimed to determine the association of HCC with NASH using a large national database.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed using the 2012 National Inpatient Sample. The study group was all adult patients’ age 18–90 years who have a diagnosis of NASH which was identified using the International Classification of Diseases 9th version (ICD-9) codes. The control group included the rest of adult individuals without discharge records of NASH. We identified the diagnosis of HCC in both study and control groups using the ICD-9 codes. We calculated the association between NASH and HCC using univariable and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Totally, 30 712 524 hospitalizations were included in our study. This cohort included 218 950 patients with NASH (study group) and 30 493 574 patients without NASH (control group). The study group patients aged 57.3 ± 0.10 years (59.4% females) comparing to 54.5 ± 0.11 years (57.1% female) in the control group. HCC prevalence in subjects with NASH was 0.50% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.41–0.59] compared to 0.21% (95% CI: 0.20–0.23) in subjects without NASH (P < 0.001). After adjusting for age, gender, smoking, alcohol use, obesity, hepatitis C virus, hepatitis B virus, hemochromatosis, HIV, cirrhosis and the modified comorbidity index, subjects with NASH were 60% more likely to have HCC than those without NASH (adjusted odds ratio: 1.6, 95% CI: 1.4–1.9, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our study showed that NASH patients are 60% more likely to develop HCC compared with patients without NASH. Close monitoring and even periodical surveillance might be needed.
The natural history of alcohol-related liver disease
Authors: Parker Richard
Published: February 2020

Purpose of review

This review will describe the natural history of alcohol-related liver disease (ArLD) in light of recent data that have synthesized existing knowledge on this topic and described new research cohorts to improve our understanding of progression and outcomes in ArLD.

Recent findings

ArLD occurs after a threshold of alcohol consumption, but this threshold is lowered by the presence of comorbid factors of which obesity is the most common. The most common stage of ArLD is alcohol-related steatosis: this is associated with a low rate of progression to cirrhosis (3%/year) and nonliver-related morbidity is more likely (4 versus 1%/year). In contrast, alcohol-related steatohepatitis or cirrhosis is more dangerous with higher rates of both nonliver and liver-related mortality. Hepatocellular carcinoma occurs at approximately 3%/year amongst people with ArLD cirrhosis.

These data allow an understanding of ArLD to accurately counsel patients and also to guide public health policies. Awareness of the shortcomings of the available data, highlighted in a recent systematic review, will inform the design of further research in particular to describe the multiple interacting factors that may cause ArLD to regress or progress.
HIV nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis for sexual assault cases: a 3-year investigation
Authors: Shipeolu Lolade , Sampsel Kari , Reeves Allegra , Blaskovits Farriss , Heimerl Melissa , Muldoon Katherine
Published: February 2020

Objective:

Nonoccupational postexposure prophylaxis (nPEP) programs offer antiretroviral therapy to prevent HIV following at-risk exposures like sexual assault. We investigated the levels of elective nPEP uptake among sexual assault cases presenting for emergency medical care.

Design:

Retrospective analysis.

Methods:

The analysis included over 3 years (1 January 2015 to 30 September 2018) of clinic information from the Sexual Assault and Partner Abuse Care Program (SAPACP) at The Ottawa Hospital, the regional emergency department care point following sexual assault. Descriptive analyses assessed the number of cases eligible for nPEP and those who started nPEP. Bivariable/multivariable logistic regression modelling assessed factors most strongly associated with starting nPEP using odds ratios (OR), adjusted OR (AOR), and 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results:

The SAPACP saw 1712 patients; 1032 were sexual assault cases, 494 were eligible for nPEP, and 307/494 (62%) eligible patients started nPEP. The median age was 23 years (IQR: 20–31), with 446 (90%) cases being female. There were 86 (17%) cases who arrived by ambulance, and 279 (56%) assaults involving a known assailant. Reduced odds of starting nPEP were observed among female cases (AOR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.21–0.93), those who arrived by ambulance (AOR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.35–0.91), and those with a known assailant (AOR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.36–0.78).

Conclusion:

We found that 62% of eligible sexual assault cases started nPEP. Key groups most likely to decline nPEP included female cases, those who arrived by ambulance, and those with known assailants. Providers can use these findings to provide recommendations to sexual assault survivors most likely to decline nPEP, yet still in need of care.
Clinical and immunologic features in severe and moderate forms of Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Chen Guang , Wu Di , Guo Wei , Cao Yong , Huang Da , Wang Hongwu , Wang Tao , Zhang Xiaoyun , Chen Huilong , Yu Haijing , Zhang Xiaoping , Zhang Minxia , Wu Shiji , Song Jianxin , Chen Tao , Han Meifang , Li Shusheng , Luo Xiaoping , Zhao Jianping , Ning Qin
Published: February 2020

Background

Since late December, 2019, an outbreak of pneumonia cases caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in Wuhan, and continued to spread throughout China and across the globe. To date, few data on immunologic features of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been reported.

Methods

In this single-centre retrospective study, a total of 21 patients with pneumonia who were laboratory-confirmed to be infected with SARS-CoV-2 in Wuhan Tongji hospital were included from Dec 19, 2019 to Jan 27, 2020. The immunologic characteristics as well as their clinical, laboratory, radiological features were compared between 11 severe cases and 10 moderate cases.

Results

Of the 21 patients with COVID-19, only 4 (19%) had a history of exposure to the Huanan seafood market. 7 (33.3%) patients had underlying conditions. The average age of severe and moderate cases was 63.9 and 51.4 years, 10 (90.9%) severe cases and 7 (70.0%) moderate cases were male. Common clinical manifestations including fever (100%, 100%), cough (70%, 90%), fatigue (100%, 70%) and myalgia (50%, 30%) in severe cases and moderate cases. PaO2/FiO2 ratio was significantly lower in severe cases (122.9) than moderate cases (366.2). Lymphocyte counts were significantly lower in severe cases (0.7 × 10□/L) than moderate cases (1.1 × 10□/L). Alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase levels, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and ferritin were significantly higher in severe cases (41.4 U/L, 567.2 U/L, 135.2 mg/L and 1734.4 ug/L) than moderate cases (17.6 U/L, 234.4 U/L, 51.4 mg/L and 880.2 ug /L). IL-2R, TNF-α and IL-10 concentrations on admission were significantly higher in severe cases (1202.4 pg/mL, 10.9 pg/mL and 10.9 pg/mL) than moderate cases (441.7 pg/mL, 7.5 pg/mL and 6.6 pg/mL). Absolute number of total T lymphocytes, CD4+T cells and CD8+T cells decreased in nearly all the patients, and were significantly lower in severe cases (332.5, 185.6 and 124.3 × 106/L) than moderate cases (676.5, 359.2 and 272.0 × 106/L). The expressions of IFN-γ by CD4+T cells tended to be lower in severe cases (14.6%) than moderate cases (23.6%).

Conclusion

The SARS-CoV-2 infection may affect primarily T lymphocytes, particularly CD4+T cells, resulting in significant decrease in number as well as IFN-γ production, which may be associated with disease severity. Together with clinical characteristics, early immunologic indicators including diminished T lymphocytes and elevated cytokines may serve as potential markers for prognosis in COVID-19.
Students’ attitudes towards knowledge and the future of work
Authors: Frunzaru Valeriu , Corbu Nicoleta
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate to what extent secondary school students’ interest in intellectual development influences key abilities necessary to cope with the future of work. In the ever-changing world of work, deeply influenced by new technologies and cultural diversity in the workforce, young people must develop three essential traits to increase their capacity to quickly adapt to the situation in the labour market: openness to lifelong learning, critical thinking skills related to online information (of which online fact-checking is a key component) and openness to a multicultural society. In this paper, it is argued that these traits are directly related to young people’s interest in intellectual development but that additional interdependencies between these three traits complicate this equation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a survey of secondary school students in the 12th grade (N = 1221). A hypothesized conceptual model was tested with AMOS software for structural equation modelling.

Findings

The findings show that students who are more interested in intellectual development are more open to lifelong learning. The relationship between intellectualism and lifelong learning is also mediated by online fact-checking. Moreover, the higher the interest in lifelong learning, the higher the openness to multiculturality. There is, however, no direct relationship between interest in intellectual development and multiculturality.

Practical implications

The results of this study will help making recommendations to three key stakeholders: young people, teachers and policymakers. They could have a practical impact on the labour market in the future.

Originality/value

This paper examines a topic that has not been systematically studied, namely, the possible influence of intellectualism on the future of work. The findings highlight the possible negative effects of a lack of interest in intellectual development on lifelong learning, living and working in a multicultural environment and processing online information.
Increasing the delivery of upper limb constraint‐induced movement therapy post‐stroke: A feasibility implementation study
Authors: McCluskey Annie , Massie Louise , Gibson Gillian , Pinkerton Lisa , Vandenberg Ana
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Few stroke survivors receive upper limb constraint‐induced movement therapy (CIMT). The aims of this study were to evaluate whether a behaviour change program for occupational therapists increased the number of stroke survivors receiving CIMT, describe the time and process involved in delivering the first program, any adverse events, fidelity and dose of CIMT provided, and upper limb outcomes.

Methods

A feasibility pre‐post implementation study design was used, with intervention and measures for therapists and stroke survivors. Intervention for occupational therapists was informed by the Behaviour Change Wheel and included CIMT training, barrier identification, mentoring and a community of practice. Therapists delivered 2‐week CIMT programs with 1:1 supervision, first assisting stroke survivors to identify upper limb goals using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure. The primary outcome was change in the number of stroke survivors receiving CIMT (program reach). Hours associated with program delivery, adverse events and participant repetitions were recorded (program fidelity and dose). Change in motor function was measured (fidelity) using the Motor Assessment Scale (Upper Limb), Box and Block Test, Nine Hole Peg Test and Motor Activity Log at baseline, program completion (2 weeks), 1 and 12 months.

Results

Program reach: Sixteen stroke participants were recruited (mean 15.3 months post‐stroke, SD 11.9) and six CIMT programs conducted over 24 months, compared to none pre‐implementation. The first CIMT program required a mean of 242 hours for preparation and delivery. All programs were student‐assisted. Fidelity and dose: Stroke participants completed a mean of 360.6 repetitions/hour (SD 183.7), and 12,719.6 repetitions/program (SD 6,872.8). Statistically significant changes in upper limb motor function were recorded; some changes were clinically important.

Conclusions

The behaviour change program resulted in multiple CIMT programs being delivered safely and with fidelity. Capacity building and skill development took many hours, as did preparation for the first CIMT program.
Population pharmacokinetics and Bayesian estimators for intravenous mycophenolate mofetil in haematopoietic stem cell transplant patients
Authors: Labriffe Marc , Vaidie Julien , Monchaud Caroline , Debord Jean , Turlure Pascal , Girault Stephane , Marquet Pierre , Woillard Jean‐Baptiste
Published: February 2020

Aims

Intravenous mycophenolate mofetil (IV MMF), a prodrug of mycophenolic acid (MPA), is used during nonmyeloablative and reduced‐intensity conditioning haematopoetic stem cell transplantation (HCT) to improve engraftment and reduce graft‐versus‐host disease. The aims of this study were to develop population pharmacokinetic models and Bayesian estimators based on limited sampling strategies to allow for individual dose adjustment of intravenous mycophenolate mofetil administered by infusion in haematopoietic stem cell transplant patients.

Methods

Sixty‐three MPA concentration–time profiles (median [min–max] = 6 [4–7] samples) were collected from 34 HCT recipients transplanted for 14 (1–45) days and administered IV MMF every 8 hours, concomitantly with cyclosporine. The database was split into development (75%) and validation (25%) datasets. Pharmacokinetic models characterized by a single compartment with first‐order elimination, combined with two gamma distributions to describe the transformation of MMF into mycophenolic acid, were developed using in parallel nonparametric (Pmetrics) and parametric (ITSIM) approaches. The performances of the models and the derived Bayesian estimators were evaluated in the validation set.

Results

The best limited sampling strategy led to a bias (min, max), root mean square error between observed and modeled interdose areas under the curve in the validation dataset of −11.72% (−31.08%, 5.00%), 14.9% for ITSIM and −2.21% (−23.40%, 30.01%), 12.4% for Pmetrics with three samples collected at 0.33, 2 and 3 hours post dosing.

Conclusion

Population pharmacokinetic models and Bayesian estimators for IV MMF in HCT have been developed and are now available online (https://pharmaco.chu-limoges.fr) for individual dose adjustment based on the interdose area under the curve.
The New Israel: The evolution of the idea and image among Christian nations
Authors: Malach Assaf
Published: February 2020

This article deals with the use made by Christian people of the image of a chosen people for national and political purposes, while identifying a specific Christian nation or kingdom as the “New Israel.” It begins by describing the idea of “New Israel” as a pan‐Christian idea that underwent a fundamental change when its use began with reference to a specific nation. The article continues with a detailed mapping of the phenomenon in Ethiopian Christianity, in the Catholic world in the Middle Ages, in the Russian Orthodox world, and in the Protestant countries in the early days of the modern era. The article describes the broad context of the phenomenon in the framework of ethnocentric imagery in different cultures and the continuation of the research required for its full description.

This phenomenon is interesting because it indicates the importance that many people attributed in the premodern period to the formulation of a national narrative and the centrality of religion in formulating a national narrative during this period. It emphasizes the political inspiration that Europe drew from the Bible in the formulation of national narratives, as well as the prominence of the national idea in the Bible itself, which made it an accessible source of inspiration for national ideas of Christian people.
Orally administered mixed carotenoids protect human skin against ultraviolet A‐induced skin pigmentation: A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized clinical trial
Authors: Baswan Sudhir M. , Marini Alessandra , Klosner Allison E. , Jaenicke Thomas , Leverett Jesse , Murray Mary , Gellenbeck Kevin W. , Krutmann Jean
Published: February 2020

Background

Photoprotection of human skin is determined as the capacity of sunscreens to prevent ultraviolet (UV) B radiation‐induced erythema and UVA radiation‐induced pigmentation. It is unequivocal that, in addition to sunscreens, oral supplementation with carotenoids can protect human skin against UVB radiation‐induced erythema. It is not known if this is also the case for UVA radiation‐induced pigmentation.

Objective

To clinically evaluate the photoprotective effects of daily supplementation with carotenoids against UVA radiation‐induced pigmentation.

Methods

In this double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial, 60 subjects (Fitzpatrick types II‐IV) were randomized to receive Nutrilite™ Multi Carotene supplement or placebo for 12 weeks. UVB‐induced minimal erythemal dose (MED), UVA‐induced minimal persistent pigmentation dose (MPPD) and skin carotenoid levels were measured at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks of intervention. Skin color was evaluated by expert clinical graders and by colorimetry. Carotenoid levels in the skin were measured by the Biozoom® device.

Results

In the intervention group, a significant increase in comparison with the placebo group was observed in (a) skin carotenoid levels, (b) UVB‐induced MED, and (c) UVA‐induced MPPD values obtained by colorimetry.

Conclusion

Daily supplementation with carotenoids protects human skin against both UVB‐induced erythema and UVA‐induced pigmentation.
Experimental boundary conditions of reinstatement‐induced return of fear in humans: Is reinstatement in humans what we think it is?
Authors: Sjouwerman Rachel , Lonsdorf Tina B.
Published: February 2020

Experimental paradigms used to study reinstatement of fear in humans are characterized by procedural heterogeneity. Reinstatement protocols involve unexpected (re)‐presentations of the unconditioned stimulus (USs) after fear extinction training. Here, we address the number of reinstatement USs administered as a potential boundary condition that may explain divergent findings in the field. A sample of 171 participants is exposed to a fear acquisition training, immediate extinction training, and reinstatement test experiment. Three groups differing in the number of reinstatement US are employed: one (n = 57) or four (n = 55) in experimental groups and zero (n = 59) in the control group. We adopt Bayesian statistical approaches beyond classical null hypothesis significance testing (NHST) to qualify evidence for or against this potential methodological boundary condition in reinstatement‐induced return of fear. Startle potentiation to the reinstatement administration context was increased for the RI–USone compared to the RI–USzero group, supporting the role of context conditioning in reinstatement. This effect was weaker in the RI–USfour group. This, however, did not transfer to responding to conditioned stimuli during the return of fear‐test: no evidence for an effect of the number of reinstatement USs (zero, one, four) was observed in behavioral or physiological measures. In sum, our results speak against the number of reinstatement USs as a potential boundary condition in experimentally induced return of fear in humans. This may challenge what we think we know about the reinstatement phenomenon in humans and call for critical reconsideration of paradigms as well as mechanisms that may underlie some reinstatement effects in the literature.
Diversity and Function of Maternal HIV-1-Specific Antibodies at the Time of Vertical Transmission
Authors: Doepker Laura E. , Simonich Cassandra A. , Ralph Duncan , Shipley Mackenzie M. , Garrett Meghan , Gobillot Theodore , Vigdorovich Vladimir , Sather D. Noah , Nduati Ruth , Matsen Frederick A. , Overbaugh Julie M.
Published: February 2020

Mother-to-child-transmission of HIV-1 offers a unique setting in which maternal antibodies both within the mother and passively transferred to the infant are present at the time of viral exposure. Untreated HIV-exposed human infants are infected at a rate of 30 to 40%, meaning that some infants do not get infected despite continued exposure to virus. Since the potential of HIV-specific immune responses to provide protection against HIV is a central goal of HIV vaccine design, understanding the nature of maternal antibodies may provide insights into immune mechanisms of protection. In this study, we isolated and characterized HIV-specific antibodies from the mother of an infant whose transmitted virus has been well studied.
Intravenous immunoglobulins in an adult case of post-EBV cerebellitis
Authors: D'Ambrosio Eleonora , Khalighinejad Farnaz , Ionete Carolina
Published: February 2020

Post-Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) cerebellitis is very rare complication of infectious mononucleosis and only a few adult cases are reported in literature. We present a 23-year-old patient who was admitted to the neurology service with worsening ataxia, nystagmus and dysarthria, 1 week after infectious mononucleosis. Imaging and cerebrospinal fluid studies were normal, serum studies revealed acute transaminitis and positive EBV viral capsid IgM and IgG. The patient underwent a 5-day course of intravenous immunoglobulins with rapid resolution of all his symptoms and was safely discharged home. The pathophysiology of post-EBV cerebellitis involves autoreactive antibodies, rather than a direct viral insult. Antineuronal antibodies might be the result of a mimicry between EBV proteins and neuronal antigens or they can be secreted by the EBV-transformed lymphocytes themselves. Many reports stress the benign, self-limiting nature of this syndrome; however, immunotherapy might de facto decrease the severity and duration of illness.
Size and composition effect on structural properties and melting behaviors of Cu–Ag–Au ternary nanoalloys
Authors: Yildirim Huseyin , Arslan Haydar
Published: February 2020

Structural optimization of ternary Cu–Ag–Au nanoalloys with 38 and 55 atoms was performed using the basin-hopping algorithm and the Gupta many-body potential was adopted to model interatomic interactions. The optimization results show that, while the Ag atoms prefer to segregate to the surface, Cu atoms were located at the core of the nanoalloy due to the higher surface and cohesive energy, whereas Au atoms mainly are located on the surface of the nanoalloys. It is found that the size has little effect on the segregation phenomena of Cu, Ag and Au atoms in the Cu–Ag–Au ternary nanoalloy. We estimated the melting temperatures of Cu–Ag–Au ternary nanoalloys using caloric curves and Lindemann index data obtained from classical molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The results showed that the melting temperature is closely associated with the size and composition of the nanoalloys and varying the composition gives rise to a fluctuation in melting temperatures. Also, structural evolutions and dynamical behaviors of nanoalloys in melting process are investigated with root mean square displacement (RMSD).
A combined numerical simulation and optimization model for the cooling of IC chips under forced convection
Authors: Patil Naveen G. , Hotta Tapano Kumar
Published: February 2020

Three-dimensional steady state numerical simulations are carried out from seven protruding IC chips (Aluminium) of different sizes mounted at various positions on a high-power SMPS board (Bakelite) cooled under forced convection ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]W/cm2, [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m/s). The objective is to predict the temperature distribution of these IC chips and to determine their optimal arrangement on the SMPS board; that will have the lowest maximum temperature excess among all the possible configurations. To achieve the same, a numerical analysis is carried out using the commercial software ANSYS-Icepak, and then the hybrid optimization strategy (Genetic Algorithm (GA) driven by Artificial Neural Network (ANN)) is employed to obtain the global optimal configuration of these IC chips. Preliminary analysis is performed using a dimensionless position parameter ([Formula: see text]) which is found to be a strong function of the IC chip size, and their positioning on the substrate board. It is observed that the combined ANN-GA strategy is able to predict the optimal behavior of the IC chips more accurately. The larger size IC chips generating higher power should be placed at the substrate bottom for better cooling.
Relatively divisible and relatively flat objects in exact categories
Authors: Crivei Septimiu , Keski̇n Tütüncü Derya
Published: February 2020

We introduce and study relatively divisible and relatively flat objects in exact categories in the sense of Quillen. For every relative cotorsion pair [Formula: see text] in an exact category [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] coincides with the class of relatively flat objects of [Formula: see text] for some relative projectively generated exact structure, while [Formula: see text] coincides with the class of relatively divisible objects of [Formula: see text] for some relative injectively cogenerated exact structure. We exhibit Galois connections between relative cotorsion pairs in exact categories, relative projectively generated exact structures and relative injectively cogenerated exact structures in additive categories. We establish closure properties and characterizations in terms of the approximation theory.
Attitude of Asian Parkinson Patients towards Clinical Research and Tissue Donation
Authors: Khan Shazma , Foo Joel Y. J. , Chia Nicole S. Y. , Agustin Sherwin J. U. , Neo Shermyn X. M. , Tay Kay-Yaw , Au Wing-Lok , Ng Adeline S. L. , Tan Louis C. S.
Published: February 2020

Objective. The success of clinical research and tissue donation programs are highly dependent on recruitment of willing volunteers. A comprehensive survey of patient preferences and attitudes can help identify and address barriers hindering the recruitment for research. Method. This is a cross-sectional study on 105 Parkinson’s disease patients who completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Results. Out of 105 respondents, 48% of patients had either already participated in clinical research or were keen to participate. About 80% believed clinical research to be safe for their health and privacy. More than 70% of participants were willing to donate blood, urine, or stool, while 16% were agreeable for cerebrospinal fluid sample donation. Motivating factors for clinical research included altruism (64%) and contribution to advance medical knowledge (64%). Common reasons for unwillingness towards clinical research included the risks involved (43%), time constraints (33%), and mobility challenges (24%). Conclusion. The attitude of Singaporean Parkinson patients toward clinical research and tissue donation is encouraging with about half of the participants willing to support clinical research. Three-quarters of patients would support tissue donations. Participation in research may be further increased with greater patient and public education to overcome misconceptions and also by limiting the demands of studies.
The Antioxidant Polysaccharide from Semiaquilegia adoxoides (DC.) Makino Adjusts the Immune Response of Mice Infected by Bacteria
Authors: Yang Yunqiao , Guo Lei , Tariq Kinza , Zhang Weiyu , Li Chong , Memon Fareed Qamar , Chai Beibei , Li Zheng , Sun Junying , Chen Yunru , Zhang Geyin , Li Qinmei , Wang Shuaiyang , Wang Lizhen , Lai Chongbo , Jiang Mingsheng , Si Hongbin
Published: February 2020

Semiaquilegia adoxoides (DC.) Makino is a herbal medicine and it is recorded that its water extract can be used to treat acute diseases caused by bacterial infections. In order to understand the polysaccharide of Semiaquilegia adoxoides (DC.) Makino (SMP), FT‐IR and HPLC methods were performed to determine the basic chemical structure and monosaccharide compositions of SMP. The antioxidant capacity of SMP was analyzed by monitoring both the scavenging rate of DPPH and ABTS free radical. To investigate the effects of SMP on the acute bacterial disease, minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of SMP on E. coli or S. aureus were detected; meanwhile, mice were administrated with SMP for 7 days and then infected with E. coli or S. aureus, and the parameters were measured at the 9th day. Results showed that SMP was a furanose which was mainly composed of glucose (60.3%) and had certain antioxidant activities. Both MIC values of SMP on E. coli and S. aureus were 250 ml/mL, which means that SMP has no direct antibacterial effects. The mice experiments revealed that SMP had potential effects on immunomodulatory by reducing WBC and the expression of serum IL‐1, IL‐6, and TNF‐α and increasing IgM of E. coli or S. aureus infected mice. These findings supported the effect of Semiaquilegia adoxoides (DC.) Makino in folk use with scientific evidence.
Efficacy of Magnesium Sulfate Treatment in Children with Acute Asthma
Authors: Özdemir Ali , Doğruel Dilek
Published: February 2020

Objective: Systemic administration of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) has been proposed as a treatment for pediatric patients with acute asthma. However, previous trials show mixed results and uncertain evidence of benefit. The aim of the study was to ascertain whether intravenous (IV) MgSO4 improves lung function parameters in children with acute asthma. Methods: This was a prospective clinical trial. All patients with acute asthma received 40–50 mg/kg or maximum 1,500 mg (>30 kg) of single dose IV MgSO4, administered over 60 min. Spirometry was conducted before and 15 min after MgSO4 infusion. Results: One hundred and fifteen children aged 6 to 17 years presenting with acute asthma and FEV1 between 40% and 75% of predicted were included. Then, the patients were classified into 2 groups; mild asthma attack (FEV1 ranged from 60% to 75%; n = 50) or moderate asthma attack (FEV1 ranged from 40% to 59%; n = 65). The baseline characteristics were similar in both groups. The mean percent predicted pre and post values for FEV1/FVC ratio (mild group: 82.59 ± 9.46 vs. 85.06 ± 8.95; moderate group: 77.31 ± 11.17 vs. 79.99 ± 11.77), FEV1 (mild group: 67.14 ± 4.99 vs. 72.29 ± 8.05; moderate group: 48.50 ± 6.81 vs. 53.78 ± 9.81), PEF (mild group: 65.49 ± 12.32 vs. 71.37 ± 12.96; moderate group: 47.56 ± 11.78 vs. 51.97 ± 13.98), and FEF25–75 (mild group: 58.20 ± 12.24 vs. 66.57 ± 16.95; moderate group: 37.77 ± 11.37 vs. 43.41 ± 14.19) showed a statistically significant (p < 0.05 for all) bronchodilator effect after MgSO4 infusion in both groups with few side effects. Conclusion: Administration of IV MgSO4 was associated with improved pulmonary function in children with acute asthma.
Pecha Kucha with Part-Task Training Improves Airway Management in Fresh Frozen Cadavers: A Case-Control Observational Study
Authors: Saracoglu Kemal Tolga , Yilmaz Mehmet , Turan Ayse Zeynep , Kus Alparslan , Colak Tuncay , Saracoglu Ayten
Published: February 2020

Objective: The objective of this study was to ascertain whether the addition of part-task training as a step in Pecha Kucha for fiberoptic tracheal intubation increases the success rate and reduces the complication rate. Subjects and Methods: The residents of the Department of Anesthesiology were initially included in an orientation program. We used the Pecha Kucha method for the presentation of teaching fiberoptic intubation skills. Afterwards the participants were trained in Laerdal® airway management and each participant performed tracheal intubation using the Aintree catheter. The participants were divided into two groups. Group 1 (n = 9) received part-task training and group 2 (n = 9) received whole-task training. The tracheal intubation performances of participants were evaluated on fresh frozen cadavers. The number of interventions, incidence of complications, success rate, and optimization maneuver requirements were recorded. Results: Eighteen residents aged between 27 and 33 years were included. All were junior residents with less than 2 years of experience. There was no significant difference in terms of duration of tracheal intubation, complication rates, and optimization maneuvers between the study groups. Six participants could not place the tracheal tube in the last section. The success rates for the part-task group during Aintree and tracheal tube placement were 100 and 66.7%, respectively, whereas the rates were 55.6 and 44.4%, respectively, in whole-task group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In addition to the Pecha Kucha method in fiberoptic intubation training, simulation-based part-task training appears to increase the success rate and to reduce the complication rate on fresh frozen cadavers.