bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum IgE against cross‐reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCD) in healthy and atopic dogs
Authors: Piccione Michelle L. , DeBoer Douglas J.
Published: October 2019

Background

Cross‐reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCD) are Immunoglobulin E (IgE)‐binding carbohydrate structures common to plant and insect species. In people, anti‐CCD IgE is thought to be clinically irrelevant, but to have the potential to confound serological IgE test interpretations. Previous studies reported the detection of anti‐CCD IgE in 24–73% of atopic dog sera; prevalence in healthy dogs has not been reported.

Objective

To compare the prevalence of anti‐CCD IgE in a group of healthy and atopic dogs.

Animals

Sera from 61 healthy dogs and 101 dogs with a clinical diagnosis of atopic dermatitis were analyzed for IgE against CCD.

Methods and materials

Sera were analyzed for the presence of anti‐CCD IgE and IgE against environmental allergens using a commercial multiplex allergen‐specific IgE assay.

Results

Anti‐CCD IgE was detected in 17 of 101 (16.8%) atopic dog sera and eight of 61 (13.1%) healthy dog sera (P = 0.65, Fisher's exact test). All healthy and atopic dogs with anti‐CCD IgE had strong reactivity to grass pollens.

Conclusions and clinical importance

A similar prevalence of anti‐CCD IgE was found in healthy and atopic dogs. Further investigation is warranted to determine the clinical significance of anti‐CCD IgE antibodies in dogs, how they are best detected and if blocking these antibodies during diagnostic testing has clinical value.
Associations between patient, treatment, or wound‐level factors and venous leg ulcer healing: Wound characteristics are the key factors in determining healing outcomes
Authors: Weller Carolina D. , Bouguettaya Ayoub , Team Victoria , Flegg Jennifer , Kasza Jessica , Jayathilake Chathranee
Published: October 2019

Chronic venous leg ulcers are challenging to heal and often recur. This has a significant impact on older individual health and is a financial burden on health care resources. This study aimed to identify factors associated with the healing of venous leg ulcers via secondary examination of data from a previously published prospective randomized controlled trial of elastic and inelastic compression systems. The data from the 45 patients who finished the trial was reanalyzed for a hypothesis generating study. Larger ulcers, higher exudate levels, larger calf circumferences, and longer ulcer duration at baseline were associated with lack of healing at 12 weeks. There was some evidence that NSAID use was associated with an increased likelihood of nonhealing (unadjusted OR for healing, 0.13, 95% CI (0.02, 0.70)). There was no evidence that other variables, including gender and BMI, were associated with healing. The key risk factors for wound healing are largely wound based or inherent to wound development, as these were found to be the factors with the strongest associations in the analysis. Future research should address how and why these factors are associated with wound healing over a longer time frame and explore how NSAIDs may affect wound healing outcomes.
CD4+/CD8+T‐cell ratio correlates with the graft fate in pig‐to‐non‐human primate islet xenotransplantation
Authors: Chung Hyunwoo , Kim Hyun‐Je , Kim Jung‐Sik , Yoon Il‐Hee , Min Byoung‐Hoon , Shin Jun‐Seop , Kim Jong‐Min , Lee Won‐Woo , Park Chung‐Gyu
Published: October 2019

Background

Xenogeneic islet transplantation using porcine pancreata has been a promising option for substituting human islet transplantation. Moreover, recent advances in pre‐clinical results have put islet xenotransplantation closer to the possibility of clinical application. While preparing for the era of clinical xenotransplantation, developing non‐invasive immune monitoring method which could predict the graft fate could benefit the patient. However, there are few reports showing predictive immune parameters associated with the fate of the graft in islet xenotransplantation.

Methods

The absolute number and ratio of T‐cell subsets have been measured via flow cytometry from the peripheral blood of 16 rhesus monkeys before and after porcine islet xenotransplantation. The correlation between the graft survival and the absolute number or ratio of T cells was retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The ratio of CD4+versus CD8+T cells was significantly reduced due to CD8+effector memory cells’ increase. Correlation analyses revealed that CD4+/CD8+, CD4+/CD8+naïve, CD4+naïve/CD8+naïve, and CD4+central memory/CD8+naïve cell ratios negatively correlated with the duration of graft survival. Conversely, further analyses discovered strong, positive correlation of CD4+/CD8+cell ratios within the early graft‐rejected monkeys (≤60 days).

Conclusions

This retrospective study demonstrated that CD4+/CD8+ratios correlated with graft survival, especially in recipients which rejected the graft in early post‐transplantation periods. CD4+/CD8+ratios could be used as a surrogate marker to predict the graft fate in pig‐to‐NHP islet xenotransplantation.
Professores e conhecimento de conteúdo sobre formação para o SUS
Authors: Do Carmo-Menegaz Jouhanna , Schubert-Backes Vânia , Medina-Moya José Luis , Naiara-Leal Suzayne
Published: October 2019

Estudo descritivo de abordagem qualitativa com objetivo de conhecer a percepção de estudantes de enfermagem, medicina e odontologia acerca do conhecimento de conteúdo sobre formação para o Sistema Único de Saúde(SUS)de professores de uma universidade pública brasileira.Foram participantes dezesseis estudantes, cujas entrevistas foram analisadas por meio da proposta operativa de Maria Cecília de Souza Minayo.Nos resultados há descrição de percepções de que estes professores são atualizados, utilizam literatura científica e conhecem a história, políticas e organização da rede de saúde, transpondo-os para a sua prática pedagógica através do fomento da reflexão, crítica e autonomia,utilizando como cenário os serviços de saúde.
Mapeo de preferencias e innovación basada en comportamiento del consumidor sobre la categoría de frituras a base de papa en el mercado colombiano.
Authors: Contreras Serrano Carlos Gabriel
Published: October 2019

El mapeo de preferencias es una técnica inspirada en la psicología matemática con el objetivo de optimizar procesos productivos y de innovación centrada en el consumidor. El presente estudio socializa los hallazgos de la aplicación de esta técnica sobre el mercado de pasabocas a base de papa con sabor natural en Colombia. 462 participantes de las ciudades de Bogotá, Medellín, Cali y Barranquilla participaron en el experimento probando 8 productos, 4 actualmente distribuidos en Colombia, 4 prototipos, una importación de México y una importación Argentina. Luego de obtener óptimos indicadores de bondad de ajuste en el modelo estadístico, los resultados indican que las preferencias de los participantes en esta categoría están migrando de las frituras a los pasabocas horneados, con más cascaras en el borde, más gruesas en comparación al promedio y más crocantes. Los hallazgos invitan a la industria a explotar este cultivo de producción agrícola interna en procesos productivos que permitan superar la barrera de adopción clásica en la categoría: la grasa.
Measuring open-set, word recognition in school-aged children: Corpus of monosyllabic target words and speech maskers
Authors: Bonino Angela Yarnell , Malley Ashley R.
Published: October 2019

A corpus of stimuli has been collected to support the use of common materials across research laboratories to examine school-aged children's word recognition in speech maskers. The corpus includes (1) 773 monosyllabic words that are known to be in the lexicon of 5- and 6-year-olds and (2) seven masker passages that are based on a first-grade child's writing samples. Materials were recorded by a total of 13 talkers (8 women; 5 men). All talkers recorded two masker passages; 3 talkers (2 women; 1 man) also recorded the target words. The annotated corpus is freely available online for research purposes.
Volcanic mercury and mutagenesis in land plants during the end-Triassic mass extinction
Authors: Lindström Sofie , Sanei Hamed , van de Schootbrugge Bas , Pedersen Gunver K. , Lesher Charles E. , Tegner Christian , Heunisch Carmen , Dybkjær Karen , Outridge Peter M.
Published: October 2019

Genetically deformed plant spores indicate that mercury toxicity played a part in the mass extinction 201 million years ago.
Oceanic efflux of ancient marine dissolved organic carbon in primary marine aerosol
Authors: Beaupré Steven R. , Kieber David J. , Keene William C. , Long Michael S. , Maben John R. , Lu Xi , Zhu Yuting , Frossard Amanda A. , Kinsey Joanna D. , Duplessis Patrick , Chang Rachel Y.-W. , Bisgrove John
Published: October 2019

Marine refractory dissolved organic carbon is emitted to the atmosphere in primary marine aerosol.
Your mileage may vary
Authors: Messina Elena
Published: October 2019

Requiring and rethinking reproducibility will foster faster progress in robotics.
Genome Sequences of Two Dual-Serotype-Specific Echovirus 20 Strains from Nigeria
Authors: Faleye T. O. C. , Adewumi O. M. , Klapsa D. , Majumdar M. , Martin J. , Adeniji J. A.
Published: October 2019

Here, we describe nearly complete genome sequences (7,361 nucleotides [nt] and 6,893 nt) of two echovirus 20 (E20) isolates from Nigeria that were simultaneously typed as CVB and E20 (dual serotype) by neutralization assay. Both include two overlapping open reading frames (ORFs) of 67 and 2,183 amino acids that encoded a recently described gut infection-facilitating protein and the classic enterovirus proteins, respectively.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Endemic Houston-1 Strain, Isolated from a Pediatric Patient with Cystic Fibrosis and Assembled Using Oxford Nanopore and Illumina Sequencing
Authors: Spinler Jennifer K. , Raza Sabeen , Runge Jessica K. , Luna Ruth Ann
Published: October 2019

Hybrid
de novo
assembly of Illumina/Nanopore sequence data produced complete circular sequences of the chromosome and a plasmid for the multidrug-resistant
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Houston-1 strain. This provides a high-quality representative sequence for a lineage endemic to a pediatric cystic fibrosis care center at Texas Children’s Hospital.
Complete Genome Sequence of
w
Ana, the Wolbachia Endosymbiont of Drosophila ananassae
Authors: Gasser Mark T. , Chung Matthew , Bromley Robin E. , Nadendla Suvarna , Dunning Hotopp Julie C.
Published: October 2019

Here, we present the complete genome sequence of the
Wolbachia
endosymbiont
w
Ana, isolated from
Drosophila ananassae
and derived from Oxford Nanopore and Illumina sequencing. We anticipate that this will aid in
Wolbachia
comparative genomics and the assembly of
D. ananassae
specifically in regions containing extensive lateral gene transfer events.
Complete Genome Sequence of Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium Siphophage Seabear
Authors: Patil Ketki , Zeng Chi , O’Leary Chandler , Lessor Lauren , Kongari Rohit , Gill Jason , Liu Mei
Published: October 2019

Salmonella entericaserovar Typhimurium is a foodborne pathogen that causes gastroenteritis. Due to increases in antibiotic resistance, bacteriophage therapy may be an alternative method for preventingSalmonellafoodborne infections. We report here the complete genome sequence of a T5-like phage, Seabear, which was isolated againstS.Typhimurium.
Genome Sequences of Novel Azospirillum sp. Strains B21 and Sh1, Isolated from Raised Sphagnum Bogs, and Type Strains Azospirillum lipoferum 59b and Azospirillum oryzae COC8
Authors: Grouzdev Denis S. , Tikhonova Ekaterina N. , Kravchenko Irina K.
Published: October 2019

Here, we report the genomic sequences of the novel
Azospirillum
sp. strains B21 and Sh1, isolated from raised bogs, along with the genome sequences of
Azospirillum lipoferum
59b
T
, the type species of the genus, and
Azospirillum oryzae
COC8
T
, which were analyzed to get more knowledge about the genus
Azospirillum
.
Platypnoea–orthodeoxia after left total knee replacement
Authors: Almufti Taha , Eversheim Franz , Johnson Brett , Akra Gabriel Ayonmigbesimi
Published: October 2019

Platypnoea–orthodeoxia syndrome (POS) is a rare disorder characterised by both dyspnoea (platypnoea) and arterial desaturation (orthodeoxia) in the upright position, with improvement in the supine position. We report an unusual case in which an 82-year-old woman developed severe hypoxaemia with POS after left total knee replacement. A significant difference in alveolar–arterial blood gas oxygen tension was demonstrated, and hypoxaemia failed to respond to 100% oxygen supply. A patent foramen ovale with a right-to-left shunt was evident on transoesophageal echocardiogram employing colour Doppler and agitated normal saline studies. Interestingly, the patient’s symptoms resolved within 6 months with ongoing chest physiotherapy, without surgical or medical intervention.
Public sector financial support for late stage discovery of new drugs in the United States: cohort study
Authors: Nayak Rahul K , Avorn Jerry , Kesselheim Aaron S
Published: October 2019

Objective

To determine the extent to which late stage development of new drugs relies on support from public funding.

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

All new drugs containing one or more new molecular entities approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) between January 2008 and December 2017 via the new drug application pathway.

Main outcome measures

Patents or drug development histories documenting late stage research contributions by a public sector research institution or a spin-off company, as well as each drug’s regulatory approval pathway and first-in-class designation.

Results

Over the 10 year study period, the FDA approved 248 drugs containing one or more new molecular entities. Of these drugs, 48 (19%) had origins in publicly supported research and development and 14 (6%) originated in companies spun off from a publicly supported research program. Drugs in these groups were more likely to receive expedited FDA approval (68%
v
47%, P=0.005) or be designated first in class (45%
v
26%, P=0.007), indicating therapeutic importance.

Conclusions

A review of the patents associated with new drugs approved over the past decade indicates that publicly supported research had a major role in the late stage development of at least one in four new drugs, either through direct funding of late stage research or through spin-off companies created from public sector research institutions. These findings could have implications for policy makers in determining fair prices and revenue flows for these products.
Building operational public health capacity through collaborative networks of National Public Health Institutes
Authors: Verrecchia Robert , Dar Osman , Mohamed-Ahmed Olaa , Squires Neil
Published: October 2019

The strengthening of public health systems internationally is integral to the improvement and protection of global population health. Essential public health functions and services are provided for by a range of organisations working together, often co-ordinated and strategically led by national Ministries of Health. Increasingly, however, National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs) are being developed to better integrate and support the delivery of these services. In this paper, we outline the role of NPHIs, analyse their advantages and shortcomings, and explore their potential to deliver enhanced public health through collaborative networking as well as partnership with WHO.
Incidence of anorexia nervosa in young people in the UK and Ireland: a national surveillance study
Authors: Petkova Hristina , Simic Mima , Nicholls Dasha , Ford Tamsin , Prina A Matthew , Stuart Ruth , Livingstone Nuala , Kelly Grace , Macdonald Geraldine , Eisler Ivan , Gowers Simon , Barrett Barbara M , Byford Sarah
Published: October 2019

Objectives

This study aimed to estimate the incidence of DSM5 anorexia nervosa in young people in contact with child and adolescent mental health services in the UK and Ireland.

Design

Observational, surveillance study, using the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Surveillance System, involving monthly reporting by child and adolescent psychiatrists between 1st February 2015 and 30th September 2015.

Setting

The study was based in the UK and Ireland.

Participants

Clinician-reported data on young people aged 8–17 in contact with child and adolescent mental health services for a first episode of anorexia nervosa.

Main outcome measures

Annual incidence rates (IRs) estimated as confirmed new cases per 100 000 population at risk.

Results

305 incident cases of anorexia nervosa were reported over the 8-month surveillance period and assessed as eligible for inclusion. The majority were young women (91%), from England (70%) and of white ethnicity (92%). Mean age was 14.6 years (±1.66) and mean percentage of median expected body mass index for age and sex was 83.23% (±10.99%). The overall IR, adjusted for missing data, was estimated to be 13.68 per 100 000 population (95% CI 12.88 to 14.52), with rates of 25.66 (95% CI 24.09 to 27.30) for young women and 2.28 (95% CI 1.84 to 2.79) for young men. Incidence increased steadily with age, peaking at 15 (57.77, 95% CI 50.41 to 65.90) for young women and 16 (5.14, 95% CI 3.20 to 7.83) for young men. Comparison with earlier estimates suggests IRs for children aged 12 and under have increased over the last 10 years.

Conclusion

These results provide new estimates of the incidence of anorexia nervosa in young people. Service providers and commissioners should consider evidence to suggest an increase in incidence in younger children.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN12676087.
Does health plan type influence receipt of an annual influenza vaccination?
Authors: Watson Ian W , Oancea Sanda Cristina
Published: October 2019

Background

The influenza virus caused 48.8 million people to fall ill and 79 400 deaths during the 2017–2018 influenza season, yet less than 50% of US adults receive an annual flu vaccination (AFV). Having health insurance coverage influences whether individuals receive an AFV. The current study aims to determine if an association exists between an individual’s health plan type (HPT) and their receipt of an AFV.

Methods

Data from the 2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and the optional ‘Health Care Access’ module were used for this study. The final study sample size was 35 684. Multivariable weighted and adjusted logistic regression models were conducted to investigate the association between HPT and AFV.

Results

Medicare coverage was significantly associated with an increase in AFV for both men (adjusted OR (AOR) 1.62 (95% CI 1.28 to 2.06)) and women (AOR 1.28 (95% CI 1.00 to 1.53)). For men, other sources of coverage were also significantly positively associated with AFV (AOR 1.67 (95% CI 1.27 to 2.19)), while for women obtaining coverage on their own was significantly negatively associated with AFV (AOR 0.75 (95% CI 0.59 to 0.97)).

Conclusion

These findings are of interest to health policy makers as these show there are HPTs which are effective at improving vaccination rates. Adopting methods used by these HPTs could help the USA reach its Healthy People 2020 AFV coverage goal of 70%.
Effect of changes in green spaces on mental health in older adults: a fixed effects analysis
Authors: Noordzij J Mark , Beenackers Marielle A , Oude Groeniger Joost , Van Lenthe Frank J
Published: October 2019

Background

Urban green spaces have been linked to different health benefits, but longitudinal studies on the effect of green spaces on mental health are sparse and evidence often inconclusive. Our objective was to study the effect of changes in green spaces in the residential environment on changes in mental health using data with 10 years of follow-up (2004–2014).

Methods

Data from 3175 Dutch adults were linked to accessibility and availability measures of green spaces at three time points (2004/2011/2014). Mental health was measured with the Mental Health Inventory-5. Fixed effects analyses were performed to assess the effect of changes in green spaces on mental health.

Results

Cross-sectional analysis of baseline data showed significant associations between Euclidean distances to the nearest green space and mental health, with an increase of 100 m correlating with a lower mental health score of approximately 0.5 (95% CI −0.87 to −0.12) on a 0–100 scale. Fixed effects models showed no evidence for associations between changes in green spaces and changes in mental health both for the entire sample as well as for those that did not relocate during follow-up.

Conclusions

Despite observed cross-sectional correlations between the accessibility of green space in the residential environment and mental health, no evidence was found for an association between changes in green spaces and changes in mental health. If mental health and green spaces are indeed causally linked, then changes in green spaces in the Eindhoven area between 2004 and 2014 are not enough to produce a significant effect.
Development of generic core competences of health professionals in rheumatology: a systematic literature review informing the 2019 EULAR recommendations
Authors: Fragoulis George E , Edelaar Lisa , Vliet Vlieland Theodora P M , Iagnocco Annamaria , Schäfer Valentin Sebastian , Haines Catherine , Schoones Jan , Nikiphorou Elena
Published: October 2019

Objective

To identify generic competences on the desired knowledge, skills and of health professionals in rheumatology (HPRs) to inform the respective EULAR recommendations.

Methods

A systematic literature review was performed on the generic core competences (defined as knowledge, skills or attitudes) of HPRs (nurses, physical therapists (PTs) or occupational therapists (OTs)). Literature was obtained from electronic databases, published EULAR recommendations and via personal communication with representatives of national rheumatology societies and experts in the field. Qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods studies were included, and their methodological quality was scored using appropriate instruments.

Results

From 766 references reviewed, 79 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Twenty studies addressed competences of multiple HPRs: 15 were of qualitative design, 1 quantitative, 1 mixed-methods, 2 systematic reviews and 1 opinion paper. The methodological quality of most studies was medium to high. Five studies concerned the development of a comprehensive set of competences. Key competences included: basic knowledge of rheumatic diseases, holistic approach to patient management, effective communication with colleagues and patients and provision of education to patients. The proposed competences were confirmed in studies focusing on one or more specific competences, on a rheumatic disease or on a specific profession (nurses, PTs or OTs).

Conclusion

Generic competences were identified for HPRs. Data were mostly derived from qualitative studies. All identified studies varied and were at national level, highlighting the need for the harmonisation of HPR competences across Europe. These findings underpin the development of EULAR recommendations for the core competences of HPRs.
Effect of chemical oxygen demand load on the nitrification and microbial communities in activated sludge from an aerobic nitrifying reactor
Authors: Li Dan , Liang Xihong , Li Zhengwei , Jin Yao , Zhou Rongqing , Wu Chongde
Published: October 2019

In this study, we explored the effect of chemical oxygen demand (COD) load on the nitrification and microbial communities in activated sludge isolated from an aerobic nitrifying tank. The activated sludge was cultured in three different COD groups: L-COD, 200 mg/L; M-COD, 1200 mg/L; H-COD, 4200 mg/L. The results indicated that the COD exerts a negligible effect on the nitrogen removal ability within the first 24 h. However, the nitrification rate decreased with culture time; the ammonium degradation rates were found to be 80.26%, 57.56%, and 43.43% at 72 h in the three COD groups, respectively. These values correspond to decreases of 19.40%, 41.83%, and 51.48%, respectively, in relation to those observed at 24 h. The activated sludge in the different COD groups exhibited similar community compositions after 24 h, as assessed by Illumina high-throughput sequencing, while a significant difference in the relative abundances of some organisms occurred after 48 and 72 h. Proteobacteria was the main phylum, with a relative abundance of >51.45%. The genera Aridibacter, Paracoccus, Nitrospira, and Nitrosomonas were suppressed by COD load over time. This study may contribute to our knowledge about the nitrification ability and microbial communities in activated sludge at different COD load levels.
Improved STEREO simulation with a new gamma ray spectrum of excited gadolinium isotopes using FIFRELIN
Authors: Almazán H. , Bernard L. , Blanchet A. , Bonhomme A. , Buck C. , Chebboubi A. , del Amo Sanchez P. , El Atmani I. , Haser J. , Kandzia F. , Kox S. , Labit L. , Lamblin J. , Letourneau A. , Lhuillier D. , Lindner M. , Litaize O. , Materna T. , Minotti A. , Pessard H. , Réal J. -S. , Roca C. , Salagnac T. , Savu V. , Schoppmann S. , Sergeyeva V. , Soldner T. , Stutz A. , Thulliez L. , Vialat M.
Published: October 2019

The STEREO experiment measures the electron antineutrino spectrum emitted in a research reactor using the inverse beta decay reaction on H nuclei in a gadolinium loaded liquid scintillator. The detection is based on a signal coincidence of a prompt positron and a delayed neutron capture event. The simulated response of the neutron capture on gadolinium is crucial for the comparison with data, in particular in the case of the detection efficiency. Among all stable isotopes, 155Gd and 157Gd have the highest cross sections for thermal neutron capture. The excited nuclei after the neutron capture emit gamma rays with a total energy of about 8MeV. The complex level schemes of 156Gd and 158Gd are a challenge for the modeling and prediction of the deexcitation spectrum, especially for compact detectors where gamma rays can escape the active volume. With a new description of the Gd (n,$ \gamma$γ) cascades obtained using the FIFRELIN code, the agreement between simulation and measurements with a neutron calibration source was significantly improved in the STEREO experiment. A database of ten millions of deexcitation cascades for each isotope has been generated and is now available for the user.
Geospatial assessment methods for geotechnical asset management of legacy railway embankments
Authors: Noakes Adam J. P. , Mason-Jarvis Laura F. , Taylor Graham R. , Evans Eifion
Published: October 2019

Most British railway embankments were constructed between 120 and 180 years ago without the benefit of modern design and construction methods. This can result in undesirable load-deformation characteristics and consequent disruption to present-day railway operations, for which there is unprecedented demand. Annual rail passenger kilometres have approximately doubled in the last 20 years and freight has increased by 60% over the same period. Whereas elements such as rails or bridges can be refurbished or replaced to meet increasing demand, the same is not usually feasible for embankments. Development of techniques to assess embankment performance risks posed by operational capacity enhancements is therefore of increasing significance to railway geotechnical asset management. The two case studies presented in this paper demonstrate how geospatial analysis and data management techniques may be applied to this challenge at both strategic (regional or national) and tactical (site-specific) scales for embankments incorporating plastic clay fill. The case studies also demonstrate, in a world of ever more abundant data, the growing need for engineering geologists and geotechnical engineers to augment their traditional knowledge with comprehensive data management and geospatial analysis skills, these being essential for modern infrastructure asset management.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the ‘Ground-related risk to transportation infrastructure’ collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/Ground-related-risk-to-transportation-infrastructure
The Embodiment of War: Growth, Development, and Armed Conflict
Authors: Clarkin Patrick F.
Published: October 2019

Armed conflict regularly presents extremely adverse circumstances not only for combatants, but also for civilians. In fact, estimates from various wars over the past 70 years suggest that noncombatants comprise the majority of casualties. For survivors, war's effects are often embodied, leaving long-term effects on health and biology. Some of these effects, such as injuries and psychological trauma, are well known. Yet other effects may be subtle and may be elucidated by a developmental biological perspective. In early life, when growth rates are highest, conditions of war may have their greatest impact. Depending on local circumstances, a developing embryo, infant, or child growing in a place embroiled in armed conflict is likely to face—directly or indirectly—various stressors, including malnutrition, infectious disease, and/or psychological stress. Thus, the conditions of war and forced displacement may become embodied, getting under the skin for fundamental biological reasons.
The Proportion of Regulatory T Cells in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lai Na-Lin , Zhang Sheng-Xiao , Wang Jia , Zhang Jia-Qian , Wang Cai-Hong , Gao Chong , Li Xiao-Feng
Published: October 2019

Objective.Accumulating evidence indicates that regulatory T cells (Tregs) may be involved in the pathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). As different markers have been used to identify Tregs, some studies on the proportions of Tregs in AS patients have generated considerable controversy. To clarify the status of Tregs in such patients, we determine the proportion changes of peripheral Tregs during development of the disease, with different cellular markers.Methods. We systematically searched Embase, PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Knowledge, FDA.gov, and Clinical Trials.gov for the studies reporting the proportion of Tregs in AS patients. Using the PRISMA guidelines, we performed a random-effects meta-analysis of the frequencies of peripheral Tregs defined in different ways. Inconsistency was evaluated using theI-squared index (I2), and publication bias was assessed by examining funnel plot asymmetry using the Begger and Egger tests.Results.A total 29 studies involving 1732 participants were included in the meta-analysis. Their conclusions of using the diversity of Tregs surface markers were inconsistent with each other. No significant difference in the proportions of Tregs was evident regardless of the definitions used [−0.709, (−1.455, 0.037,p=0.063),I2=97.3%]. Six studies used “single CD25-positive” cells as Tregs, which revealed a significant increase in AS patients compared with healthy blood donors [0.736, (0.138, 1.334),p=0.016,I2=80.7%]. Notably, the proportions of “CD4+CD25+FOXP3+,” “CD4+CD25highCD127low/−,” or “CD4+CD25+CD127low” T cells were lower in AS patients [−2.856, (−4.645, −1.066),p=0.002; −1.812, (−2.648, −0.977),p<0.001; −1.12, (−1.605, −0.635),p<0.001]. Tregs defined as “CD25high,” “CD25bright,” “CD25bright/highCD127low/−,” “CD4+FOXP3+,” “CD4+CD25highFOXP3+,” and “CD4+CD25+CD127−” did not differ in proportion between AS patients and healthy blood donors.Conclusions.The levels of Tregs varied based on the cellular identification markers used. The proportions of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+Tregs, CD4+CD25highCD127low/−, or CD4+CD25+CD127lowin blood of AS patients were significantly decreased as compared with those in healthy blood donors, and our findings lend support to the idea that the Treg status of AS patients is important. And we recommend the above as the best definition of Tregs when evaluating the status of such patients.
GLP-1 Relaxes Rat Coronary Arteries by Enhancing ATP-Sensitive Potassium Channel Currents
Authors: Xiong Qian-Feng , Fan Shao-Hua , Li Xue-Wen , Niu Yu , Wang Jing , Zhang Xin , Chen Yi-Fan , Shi Ya-Wei , Zhang Li-Hui
Published: October 2019

GLP-1 is a new type of antidiabetic agent that possesses many beneficial effects. Although its cardiovascular actions have been widely examined, little is known about GLP-1’s effects on the rat coronary artery (RCA) or about the mechanisms underpinning these effects. Here, we report that GLP-1 inhibits depolarization- or thromboxane receptor agonist (U46619)-induced RCA contraction in a dosage-dependent manner. Vasorelaxation was attenuated by denuding the endothelium, L-NAME (nitric oxide synthase inhibitor), and glyburide (KATP channel blocker) but was not affected by indomethacin (cyclooxygenase inhibitor), iberiotoxin [Ca2+-activated K+ channel (KCa) blocker], or 4-aminopyridine (KV channel blocker). Furthermore, GLP-1 increased outward K+ currents by enhancing the KATP channel in rat coronary arterial smooth muscle cells (RCASMCs). These results show that GLP-1 is an endothelial-dependent vasospasmolytic agent in the RCA and imply that the relaxant effect is regulated by enhancing KATP rather than KV or KCa currents in RCASMCs.
Dynamic Network Planning of Underground Logistics System on Uncertainty Graph
Authors: Zhong YiHua , Luo ShiMing , Bao Min , Lv XiaoDie
Published: October 2019

When designing the underground logistics system, it is necessary to consider the uncertainty of logistics nodes, high cost, and high risk. This paper employed the theories of uncertain graph and dynamic programming to solve the network planning problem of underground logistics system. Firstly, we proposed the concepts of uncertainty measure matrix and vertices structure uncertainty graph by using uncertainty measure and uncertainty graph. Secondly, vertices structure uncertainty graph of the underground logistics system was constructed based on our proposed vertices structure uncertainty graph and the uncertainty of logistics nodes. Thirdly, the dynamic programming model of the underground logistics system was established, and its solution algorithm was also designed by improving simulated annealing. Finally, the correctness and feasibility of the method was validated by using a numerical example of the underground logistics system in Xianlin district, Nanjing City in China.
Serum Levels of miR-143 Predict Survival in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Roderburg Christoph , Koch Alexander , Benz Fabian , Vucur Mihael , Spehlmann Martina , Loosen Sven H. , Luedde Mark , Rehse Sebastian , Lurje Georg , Trautwein Christian , Tacke Frank , Luedde Tom
Published: October 2019

Background and Aims. Recent data suggested a potential role of miR-143 as a biomarker for systemic inflammation and infection. However, its role in critical illness and sepsis is only poorly understood. Methods. We determined circulating levels of miR-143 in 218 critically ill patients, of which 135 fulfilled sepsis criteria, and compared them to 76 healthy controls. Results were correlated with clinical records. Results. In the total cohort of critically ill patients from a medical intensive care unit (ICU), miR-143 serum levels tended to be lower compared to healthy control samples, but this difference did not reach statistical significance. In ICU patients, serum levels of miR-143 were independent of disease etiology, including the presence of sepsis, or severity of disease. Importantly, low miR-143 serum levels were associated with an unfavorable short- and long-term prognosis in ICU patients. Our study identified different optimal cut-off values at which low miR-143 serum levels predicted mortality with a high diagnostic accuracy. In line with this, concentrations of circulating miR-143 correlated with markers of organ failure such as creatinine, bilirubin, or lactate in our cohort of critically ill patients. Conclusion. Low miR-143 serum levels are indicative for an unfavorable short- and long-term prognosis in critically ill patients admitted to a medical ICU. Our data suggest a previously unrecognized role for miR-143 measurements as a novel prognostic marker in critically ill patients.
3-Deoxyglucosone Induces Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Secretion from STC-1 Cells via Upregulating Sweet Taste Receptor Expression under Basal Conditions
Authors: Song Xiudao , Wang Fei , Xu Heng , Liang Guoqiang , Zhou Liang , Zhang Lurong , Huang Fei , Jiang Guorong
Published: October 2019

3-Deoxyglucosone (3DG) is derived from D-glucose during food processing and storage and under physiological conditions. We reported that glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) secretion in response to an oral glucose load in vivo and high-glucose stimulation in vitro was decreased by acute 3DG administration. In this study, we determined the acute effect of 3DG on GLP-1 secretion under basal conditions and investigated the possible mechanisms. Normal fasting rats were given a single acute intragastric administration of 50 mg/kg 3DG. Plasma basal GLP-1 levels and duodenum 3DG content and sweet taste receptor expression were measured. STC-1 cells were acutely exposed to 3DG (80, 300, and 1000 ng/ml) for 1 h under basal conditions (5.6 mM glucose), and GLP-1 secretion, intracellular concentrations of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and Ca2+, and molecular expression of STR signaling pathway were measured. Under the fasted state, plasma GLP-1 levels, duodenum 3DG content, and duodenum STR expression were elevated in 3DG-treated rats. GLP-1 secretion was increased in 3DG-treated cells under either 5.6 mM glucose or glucose-free conditions. 3DG-induced acute GLP-1 secretion from STC-1 cells under 5.6 mM glucose was inhibited in the presence of the STR inhibitor lactisole, which was consistent with the observation under glucose-free conditions. Moreover, acute exposure to 3DG increased the protein expression of TAS1R2 and TAS1R3 under either 5.6 mM glucose or glucose-free conditions, with affecting other components of STR signaling pathway, including the upregulation of transient receptor potential channel type M5 TRPM5 and the increment of intracellular Ca2+ concentration. In summary, the glucose-free condition was used to first demonstrate the involvement of STR in 3DG-induced acute GLP-1 secretion. These results first showed that acute 3DG administration induces basal GLP-1 secretion in part through upregulation of STR expression.
Amoxicillin/Clavulanic Acid-Induced Agranulocytosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Armas Villalba Aristides , Haq Marya , Zhang Cunxian , Thakkar Jinen
Published: October 2019

Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid is one of the widely prescribed antibiotics in the outpatient setting giving excellent antimicrobial coverage and relatively safe profile in terms of adverse reactions. Gastrointestinal and cutaneous reactions are among the commonly reported. Our goal is to describe a case of agranulocytosis induced by amoxicillin/clavulanic acid in a previously healthy patient and review prior reports with similar presentation.
Acute Awake Fiberoptic Intubation in the ICU in a Patient with Limited Mouth Opening and Hypoxemic Acute Respiratory Failure
Authors: Hannig Kjartan E. , Hauritz Rasmus W. , Jessen Christian , Grejs Anders M.
Published: October 2019

The incidence and survival of patients with head-and-neck cancer have been on the increase for decades. Following surgery or radiation therapy, complications such as difficult airways may evolve. These difficult airways may be unique and not manageable with conventional intubation methods as well as video laryngoscopes. Acute awake fiberoptic intubation may be a feasible option also for urgent emergency airway management of known difficult airways. The “cannot intubate–cannot oxygenate” (CI–CO) situation has to be avoided at all costs, since emergency cricothyrotomy has a fail ratio of more than 50% when performed by an anesthesiologist.
Combining ECM Hydrogels of Cardiac Bioactivity with Stem Cells of High Cardiomyogenic Potential for Myocardial Repair
Authors: Bai Rui , Tian Lei , Li Yi , Zhang Jiao , Wei Yujie , Jin Zhigeng , Liu Zhiqiang , Liu Huiliang
Published: October 2019

Tissue engineering exploring the combination of scaffolds and seeding cells was proposed as a promising strategy for myocardial repair. However, the therapeutic outcomes varied greatly due to different selection of scaffolds and seeding cells. Herein, the potential of combining bioactive extracellular matrix (ECM) hydrogels and high cardiomyogenic seeding cells was explored for myocardial repair in vitro and in vivo. Temperature-sensitive ECM hydrogels were prepared from decellularized rat hearts, and cardiomyogenic seeding cells were isolated from brown adipose (brown adipose-derived stem cells (BADSCs)). The in vitro studies demonstrated that ECM hydrogel significantly supported the proliferation and cardiomyogenic differentiation of BADSCs. Importantly, the function and maturation of BADSC-derived cardiomyocytes were also promoted as evidenced by Ca2+ transient’s measurement and protein marker expression. After myocardial transplantation, the combination of BADSCs and ECM hydrogels significantly preserved cardiac function and chamber geometry compared with BADSCs or ECM hydrogels alone. Meanwhile, the ECM hydrogel also enhanced BADSC engraftment and myocardial regeneration in vivo. These results indicated that heart-derived ECM hydrogels exerted significant influence on the fate of cardiomyogenic cells toward benefiting myocardial repair, which may explain the enhanced stem cell therapy by the scaffold. Collectively, it indicated that the combination of ECM hydrogel and the cardiomyogenic cells may represent a promising strategy for cardiac tissue engineering.
Prevalence of Acute Kidney Injury in Neonates with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Ryan Aoife , Gilhooley Megan , Patel Neil , Reynolds Ben C.
Published: October 2019

Background: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) often presents with severe cardio-respiratory impairment in the neonatal period. Affected infants may be exposed to multiple nephrotoxic insults, predisposing them to acute kidney injury (AKI). The prevalence of AKI in a CDH cohort has not previously been described. Objectives: The primary aim of this study was to quantify the prevalence of AKI in patients with CDH treated in a single national centre. Secondarily, we investigated the association between AKI, select neonatal outcomes, and recognised AKI risk factors. Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of all patients with CDH treated at our regional neonatal surgical centre between September 2011 and December 2017. Data was collected on demographics, CDH Study Group stage (size), laboratory and physiological parameters, medications, mortality, and duration of hospitalisation. AKI severity was stratified using the modified paediatric RIFLE criteria, determined by comparing the percentage increase in serum creatinine from baseline. Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher’s exact and Pearson’s χ2 tests for parametric analysis and Mann-Whitney U testing for non-parametric analysis. Results: Fifty-four CDH patients met the inclusion criteria, 37% of whom developed AKI. The development of AKI was significantly associated with larger CDH defect (type C/D; p = 0.014), extracorporeal membranous oxygenation support (p = 0.003), patch repair (p = 0.004), and exposure to vancomycin, corticosteroids and diuretics (p = 0.004, p = 0.007, and p ≤ 0.001, respectively). There was no statistical association between AKI and gentamicin administration, umbilical arterial catheter insertion, or significant infection. Prolonged hospitalisation and patient mortality were significantly associated with AKI (p = 0.01 and p = 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: AKI is common in CDH cases treated in our centre and is associated with adverse outcomes. Potentially modifiable risk factors include nephrotoxic medication exposure. Prevention and early recognition of contributory factors for AKI may improve outcomes in CDH.
Treatment with Intramuscular Levothyroxine in Refractory Hypothyroidism
Authors: Garayalde Gamboa María de los Ángeles , Saban Melina , Curriá Marina Ines
Published: October 2019

Introduction: Orally and daily levothyroxine (LT4) is the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism. In the majority of cases, the lack of effectiveness by this way may be due to poor adherence; however, gastrointestinal malabsorption may explain more cases of thyroxine refractoriness than previously reputed, due to the number of occult forms of these disorders. Case Presentation: A 55-year-old white man with a diagnosis of low risk of recurrence of follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma was treated with total thyroidectomy, 30 mCi iodine 131, and oral LT4. A year before he presented a gastric adenocarcinoma that required a partial gastrectomy. He evolved with multiple episodes of intestinal subocclusion that had to be treated with enterectomy in the first instance, then digestive rest and total parenteral nutrition. In spite of having made increases in oral LT4 dose (3 µg/kg), the patient persisted with a thyroid-stimulating hormone level >100 mIU/L. For this reason, we decided to administer intramuscular LT4. Conclusion: Since there are no guidelines or consensus of intramuscular LT4 use, our experience and how we decided the dose and way of administration are presented in this article to contribute to future cases.
Clinical Evaluation of the NS Endo-Inserter, a Novel Donor Inserter for Descemet’s Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty
Authors: Kobayashi Akira , Yokogawa Hideaki , Mori Natsuko , Nishino Tsubasa , Sugiyama Kazuhisa
Published: October 2019

Purpose: This study investigated the clinical outcomes achieved with a newly developed donor inserter (NS Endo-Inserter [NSI], HOYA Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) for Descemet’s stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) in Japanese eyes with bullous keratopathy secondary to argon laser iridotomy (BK-ALI). The NSI device utilizes pressure flow to push the DSAEK donor tissue into the anterior chamber. Methods: Six eyes of 6 patients (1 male, 5 females; mean age, 78.5 years) with BK-ALI were enrolled. Donor tissue was pushed into the anterior chamber using the NSI. Intraoperative complications, graft dislocation, and iatrogenic primary graft failure were recorded for all eyes. Six-month postoperative central donor endothelial cell densities (ECD) were measured prospectively and compared with preoperative values, along with 6-month best corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Results: In all cases, donor loading onto the NSI spatula and donor insertion into the anterior chamber using the NSI was smooth and successful; no intraoperative complications were noted. There were no cases of graft dislocation or IPGF. Postoperative ECD was 2,187.2 cells/mm2 (mean loss, 14.8%) and mean BCVA increased from 0.27 decimal to 0.8 at 6 months. Conclusion: In this small preliminary case series, clinical outcomes for patients with BK-ALI undergoing DSAEK using the NSI were comparable or better than those achieved with conventional DSAEK insertion techniques.