bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the effects of storage temperature and contamination on aerobic bacterial culture results of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid
Authors: Curran Michelle , Boothe Dawn M. , Hathcock Terri L. , Lee‐Fowler Tekla
Published: December 2019

Background

Storage temperature of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) impacts cytological evaluation. The effect of storage temperature before bacterial culture has not been evaluated.

Objectives

To assess whether BALF storage temperature alters aerobic bacterial culture results.

Animals

Eight healthy, male, intact, purpose‐bred Beagles.

Methods

Prospective, controlled investigation. Samples of BALF were collected sterilely. Half of each sample was reserved for controls, and half was inoculated with 104colony forming units per milliliter (cfu/mL)Bordetella bronchisepticaand 102cfu/mLEscherichia coli. Control and inoculated samples each were separated into 4 aliquots (1 plated immediately; 3 stored at 4, 24, or 37°C, respectively, for 24 hours before aerobic bacterial culture). Colony counts were compared across treatments for each organism.

Results

In inoculated samples, a statistical difference could not be detected in growth ofE. coliorB. bronchisepticabetween the baseline culture and BALF stored at 4°C for 24 hours before culture. However, forE. coli, growth in cfu/mL at both 24 and 37°C was higher compared to baseline (P< .05) and compared to 4°C (P< .05). ForB. bronchisepticacfu/mL, growth at 37°C was significantly different (P= .003) compared to both baseline and 4°C.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Samples of BALF may be stored at 4°C for 24 hours before culture without substantially altering culture results. Inappropriate storage or shipment temperature (room temperature or exposure to heat) can result in overgrowth ofE. coliorB. bronchiseptica, which could alter clinical decisions.
Sofosbuvir‐containing regimens are safe and effective in the treatment of HCV patients with moderate to severe renal impairment
Authors: Eletreby Rasha , El‐Serafy Magdy , Anees Mahmoud , Kasem Gamal , Salama Marwa , Elkhouly Reham , Hamdy Mostafa , Abdel Haleem Hisham , Kamal Ehab , Abdel‐Razek Wael , Salama Rabab , Elshenawy Mohamed , Shafeek Ayman , Hassany Mohamed , El‐Sayed Manal H. , El‐Shazly Yehia , Esmat Gamal
Published: December 2019

Background and Aims

This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of sofosbuvir (SOF)‐based regimens in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment; a subject which has been questioned by many investigators with conflicting results.

Methods

This is a real‐life multicentre retrospective cohort study on 4944 chronic Hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) (eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2) who received SOF‐based therapy in specialized treatment centres affiliated to the National Committee for the Control of Viral Hepatitis in Egypt. The efficacy and safety of SOF‐based regimens was assessed.

Results

Week 12 virological response rates were 97.5%, 96.7%, 85.7% and 80% in the total cohort, patients with eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2, patients with associated hepatic decompensation and patients on dialysis respectively. Various treatment regimens did not statistically affect the response rates. Treatment experience, cirrhosis and diabetes were predictors of treatment failure on multivariate analysis. Serious adverse events occurred in 0.1% of cases. Forty patients (0.8%) discontinued treatment.

Conclusion

Sofosbuvir‐based regimens are effective and safe for treating patients with chronic HCV and moderate to severe CKD, and in those with associated hepatic decompensation.
Environmental vulnerability assessment of Choghakhor International Wetland during 1985 to 2018
Authors: Pirali Zefrehei Ahmad Reza , Hedayati Aliakbar , Pourmanafi Saeid , Beyraghdar Kashkooli Omid , Ghorbani Rasoul
Published: December 2019

As of natural constraints, and the specific climate of Iran, as well as the increasing importance of international water resources in the socio‐economic development of societies, studies on surface water resources, especially wetlands, merit special attention. Accordingly, the TM, ETM+ and OLI satellite images of 1985, 2000 and 2018 were used in the present study to detect changes in the Choghakhor international wetland. Classifying the images with a supervised method, and using maximum likelihood algorithms, the distinct land use/land cover classes of waterbody, aquatic plants, pasture and forest, agricultural lands, bare land and human built lands were ranked. Selected landscape metrics information on the spatial pattern of the Choghakhor wetland was quantitatively determined, using Fragstats software, and the spatial composition and vulnerability of the wetland were evaluated. The vulnerability assessment of wetland contamination was investigated using the WRASTIC index based on the catchment area scale. Time processing of the data obtained from the maps indicated a 26.63% decrease in the pasture and forest area, and a 12.1% increase in the area of human built lands and agriculture lands during the period from 1985 to 2018. Further, in spite of the waterbody area expanding during 1985 to 2000, it subsequently shrunk in size from 2000 to 2018, with the area of aquatic plants lands increasing during the same period. Analysis of landscape metrics generally indicated the natural wetland cover has been changing during this period along with increasing anthropogenic impacts. Degradation, rotation and replacement of natural land cover such as pastures and forests with human built areas can be considered undesirable development effects on the Choghakhor wetland. The results of the WRASTIC index calculation indicated a major impact of Choghakhor wetland components from water pollution. The results of the present study place an emphasis on more sustainable land use and prevention of land destruction in the Choghakhor wetland basin.
The South Korea–US Alliance under the North Korean Nuclear Threat: A Reluctant Return to the “Autonomy–Security Trade‐Off”
Authors: Park Hwee‐rhak
Published: December 2019

This paper aims to examine the US–South Korea alliance from the perspective of the “Autonomy–Security Trade‐off” (AST) model, which was introduced by Michael F. Altfeld in the 1980s. This model could be a useful tool to ascertain the minimum conditions for the implementation of the US nuclear umbrella, which is a life‐and‐death issue for South Korea (ROK) given the serious North Korean nuclear threat. For this purpose, this paper introduces the key concept of the model and applies it to the ROK‐US alliance, analyzing the controversy over the deployment of the US Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system (THAAD) to South Korea as a case study. The analysis found that South Korea started its alliance with the United States based on the AST model. However, South Korea became reluctant in yielding its autonomy to the United States in the 1990s, and initiated “balanced diplomacy” between the United States and China and the reclaiming of the Operational Control Authority (OPCON) from the commander of the ROK‐US Combined Forces Command (CFC), a US General, in the 2000s. It delayed the deployment of the US THAAD for 3 years only because China opposed the deployment even after North Korea had succeeded to develop its nuclear weapons. However, South Korea had to return to the original AST model, albeit reluctantly, because of the emergence of a more serious North Korean nuclear threat, including hydrogen bombs. It did not try, with any great effort, to improve its relationship with China, and reduced the scope of OPCON by appointing a South Korean General as the Command of the CFC, allowing the deployment of the THAAD. Now that North Korea has the potential capabilities to strike the US mainland, South Korea cannot afford to be reluctant in yielding its autonomy to the United States. In this context, South Korea should not pursue its balanced diplomacy between the United States and China any longer. To the contrary, it should participate in the United States’ Indo‐Pacific strategy. It may also need to stop its pursuit of appointing its general as the Commander of the CFC until North Korea gives up its nuclear weapons. It should also become more willing to increase its cost‐sharing with the United States. In conclusion, South Korea should try to accept the recommendations from the AST model as long as its needs the US nuclear umbrella and wants to protect its people from the North Korean nuclear threat.
Phenotypic characterization and validation of provitamin A functional genes in early maturing provitamin A‐quality protein maize (Zea mays) inbred lines
Authors: Obeng‐Bio Ebenezer , Badu‐Apraku Baffour , Elorhor Ifie Beatrice , Danquah Agyemang , Blay Essie T. , Dadzie Mustapha Abu
Published: December 2019

The number of drought and low‐N tolerant hybrids with elevated levels of provitamin A (PVA) in sub‐Saharan Africa could increase when PVA genes are optimized and validated for developed drought and low‐N tolerant inbred lines. This study aimed to (a) determine the levels of drought and low‐N tolerance, and PVA concentrations in early maturing PVA‐quality protein maize (QPM) inbred lines, and (b) identify lines harbouring thecrtRB1andLcyEgenes as sources of favourable alleles of PVA. Seventy early maturing PVA‐QPM inbreds were evaluated under drought, low‐N and optimal environments in Nigeria for two years. The inbreds were assayed for PVA levels and the presence of PVA genes using allele‐specific PCR markers. Moderate range of PVA contents was observed for the inbreds. Nonetheless, TZEIORQ 55 combined high PVA concentration with drought and low‐N tolerance. ThecrtRB1‐3′TEprimer and the KASP SNP (snpZM0015) consistently identified nine inbreds including TZEIORQ 55 harbouring the favourable alleles of thecrtRB1gene. These inbreds could serve as donor parents of the favourablecrtRB1‐3′TEallele for PVA breeding in maize.
Return Migration and Decontamination After the 2011 Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant Disaster
Authors: Nagamatsu Shingo , Rose Adam , Eyer Jonathan
Published: December 2019

Return migration is key to community recovery from many disasters. Japanese governments have conducted radiation decontamination efforts in the Exclusion Zone designated after the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster in order to encourage this outcome. Little is known, however, about the factors that influence post‐disaster migrants to return, and, if people are relatively unresponsive to decontamination, then the costs of promoting recovery may exceed the benefits. We exploit a unique survey of Fukushima evacuees to determine the factors that influence their decision to return after a disaster. Location‐specific capital characteristics, such as housing tenure and the extent of property damage, are estimated to be strong factors. The radiation dose rate of the home location is found to be a statistically significant factor for intent to return, but its effect is small. We also found that households with various other characteristics were noncommittal about the return option and likely to defer their decisions, which implies that “return” and “not‐return” are asymmetric. Our simulation analysis found that the number of returnees encouraged by this decontamination was 12,882, less than 8% of the total evacuees, while the decontamination cost per returnee was 3.36 million USD. This result implies that the government could have improved the well‐being of evacuees at a lower cost by policies other than decontamination.
On the Role of Solid Lubricant Fillers in the Tribological, Micromechanical, and Morphological Properties of PA66 Composites
Authors: Ben Difallah Basma , Cornuault Pierre-Henri , Kharrat Mohamed , Dammak Maher , Monteil Guy
Published: December 2019

To achieve thermoplastics-based composites with high tribological performances, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and graphite (Gr) were incorporated separately to a polyamide 66 (PA66) matrix. Two different development methodologies of composites were used. The morphological features and the micro-mechanical properties of composites were investigated to stress the influence of the filler surface treatment and its dispersion. The friction coefficient was evaluated using a ball on a flat micro-tribometer. The wear mechanisms were also characterized. The best tribological performance was exhibited by 10 wt% of graphite. The surface treatment of the filler inclusions by 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (AMPTES) showed an improvement in the morphological aspects of adhesion at the filler/matrix interface.
Nonideal optical response of liquid crystal variable retarders and its impact on their performance as polarization modulators
Authors: García Parejo Pilar , Campos-Jara Antonio , García-Caurel Enric , Arteaga Oriol , Álvarez-Herrero Alberto
Published: December 2019

Liquid crystal variable retarders (LCVRs) will be used for the first time in a space instrument, the Solar Orbiter mission of the European Space Agency, as polarization states analyzers (PSAs). These devices will determine the Stokes parameters of the light coming from the Sun by temporal polarization modulation, using the so-called modulation matrix O. This is a matrix constituted by the first rows of properly selected PSA Mueller matrices. Calibrating a space instrument, in particular, finding O, is a critical point because in a spacecraft there is no possibility of physical access. Due to the huge difficulty in calibrating the complete instruments in all possible scenarios, a more complete calibration of the individual components has been done in ground in order to make extrapolations to obtain O in-flight. Nevertheless, apart from the individual calibrations, the experimental errors and nonideal effects that inhibit the system to reach the designed and theoretical values must be known. In this work, description and study of these effects have been done, focusing on the nonideal effects of the LCVRs and the azimuthal misalignments between the optical components of the PSA during the mechanical assembly. The Mueller matrix of a representative LCVR has been measured and mathematically decomposed by logarithm decomposition, looking for values of circular birefringence and fast axis angle variations as a function of voltage. These effects, in the absence of other nonidealities, affect the polarimetric performance, reducing the polarimetric efficiencies in some cases until 11%. Nevertheless, in this case, they are negligible if compared to the other nonideality studied, which are the azimuthal misalignments between the PSA optical components. The study presented in this work is key to extrapolate the PSA O matrix if the expected instrumental set-point temperatures are not reached in flight and can be used for the design and implementation of other polarimetric instruments.
A modular architecture for articulatory synthesis from gestural specification
Authors: Alexander Rachel , Sorensen Tanner , Toutios Asterios , Narayanan Shrikanth
Published: December 2019

This paper proposes a modular architecture for articulatory synthesis from a gestural specification comprising relatively simple models for the vocal tract, the glottis, aero-acoustics, and articulatory control. The vocal tract module combines a midsagittal statistical analysis articulatory model, derived by factor analysis of air-tissue boundaries in real-time magnetic resonance imaging data, with an αβ model for converting midsagittal section to area function specifications. The aero-acoustics and glottis models were based on a software implementation of classic work by Maeda. The articulatory control module uses dynamical systems, which implement articulatory gestures, to animate the statistical articulatory model, inspired by the task dynamics model. Results on synthesizing vowel-consonant-vowel sequences with plosive consonants, using models that were built on data from, and simulate the behavior of, two different speakers are presented.
Modeling nonlinear rheology of unentangled polymer melts based on a single integral constitutive equation
Authors: Narimissa Esmaeil , Wagner Manfred H.
Published: December 2019

The experimental data of Matsumiya et al. [Macromolecules 51, 9710–9729 (2018)] for start-up and the steady-state elongational flow of monodisperse unentangled polystyrene PS27k and poly(p-tert-butylstyrene) PtBS53k melts are analyzed based on the relaxation spectrum of the Rouse model and a single integral constitutive equation. As shown by Lodge and Wu [Rheol. Acta 10, 539–553 (1971)], the stress tensor of the Rouse model is equivalent to the rubberlike-liquid constitutive equation, and the relaxation modes of Rouse chains can be represented by an ensemble of virtual viscoelastic “strands” with relaxation times and creation rates. Instead of the affine deformation hypothesis, we assume that due to the flow, strands are oriented and stretched. The use of a history integral avoids preaveraging of orientation and stretch. Stretch is limited by a finite conformational stretch parameter. We find good agreement between model predictions and experimental data for start-up and the steady-state elongational flow of melts PS27k and PtBS53k and qualitative agreement with stress-relaxation after the stop of elongation. Extension-thickening and extension-thinning observed are caused by finite chain stretch in combination with strand orientation. The model predicts a scaling exponent for high Weissenberg number elongational flows of ηE∝Wi−1/2 in agreement with experimental evidence. The same scaling exponent was observed and predicted earlier for high Weissenberg number shear flows [R. Colby et al., Rheol. Acta, 46, 569–575 (2007)], and we show that the steady-shear data of unentangled polystyrene melts are in nearly quantitative agreement with model prediction assuming only the orientation of strands in the shear flow with no stretch.
Effects of Foot-Strike Patterns on Biomarkers S100 Calcium-Binding Protein B/Neuron-Specific Enolase in Running—A Pilot Study
Authors: Schroeder Jan , Erthel Franziska , Hollander Karsten
Published: December 2019

Purpose: Foot-strike patterns (FSP) in running are related to certain impact kinetics during ground contact. A rear-foot strike (RFS) has been associated with higher impact forces, whereas a forefoot strike (FFS) is assumed to minimize these impact forces. This study investigated the effects of running with RFS or FFS on impact-sensitive neuronal biomarkers S100 calcium-binding protein B (S100B), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Methods: In this randomized crossover study, 18 healthy recreational runners (14 male, mean [SD] age 28.2 [4.7] y, body mass index 22.8 [1.9]) ran 2 separate 5-mile runs with RFS or FFS, respectively. Blood samples were taken before (pre), 30 min after (post 0), and 24 h after (post 24) the run. S100B, NSE, and LDH concentrations were determined and analyzed (3 × 2 data model). Results: S100B, NSE, and LDH concentrations increased from pre to post 0 and decreased within 24 h back to the baseline level, demonstrating a significant time effect (all P < .01, all ). No main effect for FSP or any significant interaction effect indicating FSP-specific differences between FFS or RFS was found (all P > .05, all ), except for LDH (P < .001, ). Conclusions: NSE, S100B, and LDH concentration increased in the short term after running and returned to normal in 24 h. FSP with varying impact forces does not influence the increase of these biomarkers. LDH findings favor peripheral origins, but mixed effects are possible. Thus, further research is needed to estimate the risk of mild traumatic encephalopathy.
Using Head-Mounted Eye-Tracking to Study Handwriting Development
Authors: Fears Nicholas E. , Lockman Jeffrey J.
Published: December 2019

Even with the increasing use of technology in the classroom, handwriting remains a developmental foundation of education. When children fail to learn to write efficiently, they encounter cascading difficulties in using writing to communicate and learn content. Traditionally, the development of handwriting has been studied via neuropsychological testing or the moment-to-moment kinematics of pen movements. By measuring children’s handwriting with neuropsychological testing, investigators have determined that children’s visual-motor integration abilities predict children’s handwriting. Further, by measuring children’s pen movements while writing, investigators have determined that children’s handwriting becomes more fluent as they become skilled writers. Both of these literatures have advanced our understanding of handwriting substantially, but fall short of providing a full account of handwriting development. Here, we offer a perception–action account of handwriting development by describing how eye and hand movements become integrated during early writing. We describe how head-mounted eye-tracking technology can be used to measure children’s eye movements as they write in real-time. We illustrate this approach with findings from research on letter, form, and word copying in school-entry age children. We conclude by discussing how a perception–action approach can be extended for use with atypical populations.
Gas hydrate occurrences along the Haida Gwaii margin—Constraints on the geothermal regime and implications for fluid flow
Authors: Riedel Michael , Rohr Kristin M.M. , Côté Michelle M. , Schmidt Ulrike , Richardson Terryl
Published: December 2019

Seismic-reflection data along the Haida Gwaii margin collected from 1967 to 2013 were used to identify gas hydrate–related bottom-simulating reflectors (BSRs). The BSRs occur along the Queen Charlotte Terrace only, within more strongly folded and tectonically deformed sedimentary ridges. The BSRs are absent within well-bedded and sediment-filled minibasins. The BSR is modeled as the base of the phase boundary of the methane hydrate (structure I) stability zone and is used to estimate geothermal gradients. The P-wave velocity structure required to convert observed depths of the BSR in two-way time to meters below seafloor was constrained from ocean-bottom seismometers. The BSR-derived gradients are lower than data from heat-probe deployments in the region, as well as predicted values from previous modeling of the large-scale tectonic thermal regime. Lower values of the BSR-derived thermal gradients may be due to topographic effects across the ridges where BSRs were observed. The previously identified landward decrease in thermal gradients across the terrace was also identified to a lesser extent from the BSRs, in accordance with the effects of oblique convergence of the Pacific plate with the North American plate. Geothermal gradients decreased from south to north by a factor of two, which is likely an effect of plate cooling due to an increase in age of the underlying plate (ca. 8 Ma off southern Haida Gwaii to ca. 12 Ma at Dixon Entrance) as well as the fact that sediments triple in thickness over the same distance. This may be due to downward flexure of the underlying crust during transpression and/or a high flux of sediments through Dixon Entrance.
Paleoseismic patterns of Quaternary tectonic and magmatic surface deformation in the eastern Basin and Range, USA
Authors: Stahl T.A. , Niemi N.A. , Bunds M.P. , Andreini J. , Wells J.D.
Published: December 2019

The competing contributions of tectonic and magmatic processes in accommodating continental extension are commonly obscured by a lack of on-fault paleoseismic information. This is especially true of the Sevier Desert, located at the eastern margin of the Basin and Range in central Utah (USA), where surface-rupturing faults are spatially associated with both regional detachment faults and Quaternary volcanism. Here, we use high-resolution topographic surveys (terrestrial lidar scans and real-time kinematic GPS), terrestrial cosmogenic nuclide (10Be and 3He) exposure dating, 40Ar/39Ar geochronology, and new neotectonic mapping to distinguish between modes of faulting and extension in a transect across the Sevier Desert. In the western Sevier Desert, the House Range and Cricket Mountains faults each have evidence of a single surface-rupturing earthquake in the last 20–30 k.y. and have time-integrated slip and extension rates of <0.1 and ∼0.05 mm yr−1, respectively, since ca. 15–30 ka. These rates are similar to near-negligible modern geodetic extension estimates. Despite relatively low geologic, paleoseismic, and modern extension rates, both faults show evidence of contributing to the long-term growth of topographic relief and the structural development of the region. In the eastern Sevier Desert, the intrabasin Tabernacle, Pavant, and Deseret fault systems show markedly different surface expressions and behavior from the range-bounding normal faults farther west. Pleistocene to Holocene extension rates on faults in the eastern Sevier Desert are >10× higher than those on their western counterparts. Faults here are co-located with Late Pleistocene to Holocene volcanic centers, have events temporally clustered around the timing of Pleistocene volcanism in at least one instance, and have accommodated extension ∼2×–10× above geodetic and long-term geologic rates. We propose a model whereby Pliocene to recent extension in the Sevier Desert is spatially partitioned into an eastern magma-assisted rifting domain, characterized by transient episodes of higher extension rates during volcanism, and a western tectonic-dominated domain, characterized by slower-paced faulting in the Cricket Mountains and House Range and more typical of the “Basin and Range style” that continues westward into Nevada. The Sevier Desert, with near-complete exposure and the opportunity to utilize a range of geophysical instrumentation, provides a globally significant laboratory for understanding the different modes of faulting in regions of continental extension.
Organising pneumonia in Rhupus syndrome
Authors: Gutta Smitesh , Das Sohini , Kodiatte Thomas Alex , Vimala Leena Robinson
Published: December 2019

Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is seen in 17% of patients with Rhupus syndrome. Organising pneumonia (OP), a subtype of connective tissue disease-associated ILD, is rare but associated with good outcomes. Here, we present a patient with Rhupus who developed OP.
Do pharmacy intervention reports adequately describe their interventions? A template for intervention description and replication analysis of reports included in a systematic review
Authors: de Barra Mícheál , Scott Claire , Johnston Marie , De Bruin M , Scott Neil , Matheson Catriona , Bond Christine , Watson Margaret
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Scientific progress and translation of evidence into practice is impeded by poorly described interventions. The Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) was developed to specify the minimal intervention elements that should be reported.

Objectives

(1) To assess the extent to which outpatient pharmacy interventions were adequately reported. (2) To examine the dimension(s) across which reporting quality varies. (3) To examine trial characteristics that predict better reporting.

Methods

The sample comprised 86 randomised controlled trials identified in a Cochrane review of the effectiveness of pharmacist interventions on patient health outcomes. Duplicate, independent application of a modified 15-item TIDieR checklist was undertaken to assess the intervention reporting. The reporting/non-reporting of TIDieR items was analysed with principal component analysis to evaluate the dimensionality of reporting quality and regression analyses to assess predictors of reporting quality

Results

In total, 422 (40%) TIDieR items were fully reported, 395 (38%) were partially reported and 231 (22%) were not reported. A further 242 items were deemed not applicable to the specific trials. Reporting quality loaded on one component which accounted for 26% of the variance in TIDieR scores. More recent trials reported a slightly greater number of TIDieR items (0.07 (95% CI 0.02 to 0.13) additional TIDieR items per year of publication). Trials reported an 0.09 (95% CI 0.04 to 0.14) additional TIDieR items per unit increase in impact factor (IF) of the journal in which the main report was published.

Conclusions

Most trials lacked adequate intervention reporting. This diminished the applied and scientific value of their research. The standard of intervention reporting is, however, gradually increasing and appears somewhat better in journals with higher IFs. The use of the TIDieR checklist to improve reporting could enhance the utility and replicability of trials, and reduce research waste.
Effect of a simple intervention on hand hygiene related diseases in preschools in South Africa: research protocol for an intervention study
Authors: Lange Samantha Louise , Barnard Tobias George , Naicker Nisha
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Hand hygiene (HH) related illnesses such as diarrhoea and respiratory diseases, contribute to the burden of disease and are included in the top five causes of mortality in children under 5 years in South Africa. Children attending preschools are more susceptible to these infections due to the higher number of children in preschools. HH interventions have shown to reduce HH-related diseases by improving HH practices. In South Africa, there are no documented HH interventions or studies in children under 5 years. The purpose of the study is to determine whether an HH intervention can reduce HH-related diseases among 4–5-year-old preschool children and to improve HH practices in these children, their caregivers and their parents.

Methodology and analysis

This is a protocol for a controlled intervention study to be conducted at preschools in Kempton Park, City of Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, South Africa. Preschools will be randomly distributed into control and experimental groups (n=70). The intervention includes interactive simulation learning, educational emails and education and poster reminders obtained from the WHO and the Global Handwashing Day website. Data collection, including the intervention, will take place during the calendar year as this coincides with the school year. Data will be analysed both preintervention and postintervention in the experimental group as well as between the experimental and control group. Data collected by means of questionnaires, observations, disease registers, hygiene inspections, semi-structured interviews and hand swabs will be analysed to determine these outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

Permission has been obtained from the University of Johannesburg Ethics Committee and Ministerial Consent for Non-Therapeutic Research on Minors from the Department of Health National Ethics Research Council. Permissions for use of copyright protected materials has been obtained. Results of the study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, and feedback within relevant structures through conference proceedings.
Multiregion whole-genome sequencing depicts intratumour heterogeneity and punctuated evolution in ovarian clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Yin Xia , Bi Rui , Ma Pengfei , Zhang Shengzhe , Zhang Yang , Sun Yunheng , Zhang Yi , Jing Ying , Yu Minhua , Wang Wenjing , Tan Li , Di Wen , Zhuang Guanglei , Cai Mei-Chun
Published: December 2019

Background

Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) arises from endometriosis and represents a difficult-to-treat gynaecological malignancy, in part, because its spatial intratumour heterogeneity and temporal evolutionary trajectories have not been explicitly defined.

Methods

We performed whole-genome sequencing on six pathologically confirmed patients with OCCC. An R package named KataegisPortal was developed to identify and annotate loci of localised hypermutations. Immunohistochemical staining was conducted on a tissue microarray containing 143 OCCC specimens.

Results

Multiregion analysis demonstrated considerable degrees of subclonal diversification, ascribable to dynamic mutagenic processes, as well as macroevolutionary events including the acquisition of aneuploidy and chromoplexy. KataegisPortal unveiled APOBEC-mediated kataegis in the early phases of OCCC pathogenesis. We further showed evidence that APOBEC3A and APOBEC3B were frequently expressed in OCCC and possibly regulated by the MAPK pathway. Notably, APOBEC3B-expressing OCCC displayed favourable prognosis and appreciable immunogenicity manifested by marked cytotoxic T-cell infiltration.

Conclusions

These results point to an appealing model of punctuated tumour evolution underlying OCCC neoplastic transformation and progression, which may pose formidable challenges of early detection and intervention, and indicate the intratumour heterogeneity of cancer-driving alterations, yielding important implications for molecular diagnosis and targeted treatment of this lethal disease.
Effect of blood pressure parameters on functional independence in patients with acute ischemic stroke in the first 6 hours after endovascular thrombectomy
Authors: Chu Hai-Jui , Lin Chun-Hsien , Chen Chih-Hao , Hwang Yi Ting , Lee Meng , Lee Chung-Wei , Tang Sung-Chun , Jeng Jiann-Shing
Published: December 2019

Background and purpose

Studies have suggested that blood pressure (BP) levels after endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) are correlated with clinical outcomes. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of BP in different time intervals within the first 24 hours after EVT on functional outcomes.

Methods

Data of patients who received EVT for acute ischemic stroke at two institutions were reviewed. After EVT, hourly BP data were collected and divided into four time intervals: 1–6 hours, 7–12 hours, 13–18 hours, and 19–24 hours. The mean, maximum, and standard deviation (SD) of BP were calculated and compared with the outcome of interest in patients with successful recanalization. The outcome of interest was functional independence, which was defined as a 3-month modified Rankin Scale score of ≤2.

Results

Of 224 patients with stroke who received EVT, 166 (74.1%) (mean age 70.2±13.1 years; 49.4% men) achieved successful recanalization and 82 (49.4%) exhibited functional independence. After adjustment for possible confounders, lower mean, maximum, and SD values of systolic and diastolic BP observed in the first 6 hours after EVT were independently associated with functional independence. Furthermore, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve values observed for BP parameters for outcome prediction in the first 6 hours were the highest across the 24-hour period following EVT.

Conclusion

In patients with stroke who achieved successful recanalization, the first 6 hours after EVT was the key period influencing the correlation between BP and functional outcome.
Middle meningeal artery embolization as an adjuvant treatment to surgery for symptomatic chronic subdural hematoma: a pilot study assessing hematoma volume resorption
Authors: Ng Sam , Derraz Imad , Boetto Julien , Dargazanli Cyril , Poulen Gaëtan , Gascou Gregory , Lefevre Pierre-Henri , Molinari Nicolas , Lonjon Nicolas , Costalat Vincent
Published: December 2019

Background

Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a common condition requiring surgical treatment; however, recurrence occurs in 15% of cases at 1 year. Middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization has recently emerged as a promising treatment to prevent CSDH recurrence.

Objective

To investigate the effect of MMA embolization on hematoma volume resorption (HVR) after surgery in symptomatic patients.

Methods

From April 2018 to October 2018, participants with CSDH requiring surgery were prospectively randomized in a pilot study, and received either surgical treatment alone (ST group) or surgery and adjuvant MMA embolization (ST+MMAE group). The primary outcome was HVR measured on the 3 month CT scan compared with the immediate pre-embolization CT scan. Secondary outcomes were clinical recurrence of CSDH and safety measures.

Results

46 patients were randomized and 41 of these achieved a 3 month follow-up . Twenty-one patients received MMA embolization. At 3 months, the HVR from postsurgical level was higher in the ST+MMAE group (mean difference 17.5 mL, 95% CI 3.87 to 31.16 mL; p=0.015). Two participants presented a CSDH recurrence (one in each group). One patient died (ST group). No MMA embolization-related adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

The addition of MMA embolization to surgery led to an increase in CSDH resorption at 3 months. One recurrence of CSDH was reported in each group, and there were no treatment-related complications.
Peri-training nutrition methods: advancements to dietary assessment in an athletic population
Authors: Kozior Marta , Jakeman Phillip M. , Norton Catherine
Published: December 2019

Key opinion leaders in sport and exercise nutrition advocate for a personalised and periodised approach to dietary assessment and prescription. However, practice has not advanced to this level, making recommendations from key researchers unexploited in the applied setting. Our objective was to advance traditional nutritional assessment methods (data collection and analysis) of athletic populations to place training and competition stimulus at the core of a personalised, periodised approach. We term this approach peri-training nutrition (PTN).

Novelty The PTN assessment allows researchers and practitioners to effect monitor habitual nutritional practices of athletes specific to athlete aims, training adaptation stimuli, and competitive events.
Growth and vegetable yield ofAmaranthus hybridusL. as impacted by harvest methods in southern Ontario, Canada
Authors: Farintosh Geoff , Riddle Rachel , Van Acker Rene
Published: December 2019

Amaranthus hybridus L. is a nutritious leafy vegetable amaranth species grown primarily in tropical regions. Weedy amaranth species thriving in southern Ontario suggest the edible biotype could also grow efficiently as a crop. Field trials in Guelph, Simcoe, and Stouffville, Ontario, examined yield in response to three harvest frequencies (weekly, every 2 wk, and every 3 wk) cut at 15 cm above ground level, using two traditional harvest practices (Afro-Caribbean and European) cut every 2 wk, and a control which was not cut until the final harvest. The highest marketable yields and quality measures were observed in plants cut every 2 wk, every 3 wk, and using the Afro-Caribbean cutting technique which selects and harvests thicker stems while leaving new shoots for later harvests. The difference in growth among sites suggests plants prefer warm, well-drained soil. Marketable yield was as high as 4.02 ± 0.340 kg m−2in Simcoe with an average yield across all three sites of 2.37 ± 0.229 kg m−2. This demonstrates that A. hybridus has the potential to be grown as a vegetable crop in southern Ontario and that marketable yield can be optimized by method of harvest.
The effects of soil tillage techniques on weed flora in high input barley systems in northern Spain
Authors: Santín-Montanyá M.I. , Sombrero Sacristán A.
Published: December 2019

In barley cropping systems of northern Spain, agronomic practices and weather conditions are key components of weed control efficacy. We compared the short-term effects of conventional tillage with minimum tillage (MT) and zero tillage (ZT), in barley monoculture and barley rotation systems. Weed density and weed species number were measured at tillering and flowering barley stages. We found that tillage system can influence weed density and weed species establishment due to, in part, the available light for weed seeds. The results obtained indicate that the MT system facilitates the prevalence of the grass weed Bromus diandrus Roth (50.37%) and the annual dicots Galium aparine (L.) and Buglossoides arvensis (L.) I.M. Johnst. abundant were high in the MT system too, 43.71% and 43.97% respectively. The germination of these species showed a high dependence on light availability. We saw that barley-monoculture plots had a large infestation of Bromus (71.29%) and barley-rotated plots presented more infestation of Galium and Buglossoides (74.36% and 84.4%, respectively). After herbicide application, weed infestation in conservation systems was reduced in barley-rotated plots compared with barley-monoculture. If conservation systems avoided the presence of dominant weeds, the weight of each weed species was balanced within competitive relationships of the cropping systems. Our results confirmed that MT and ZT systems favour different weed species emergences in barley-rotated plots. The combination of MT and barley-rotated cropping system resulted in greater weed diversity and lower total weed density.
A laboratory assay of in situ stabilization of toxic metals in contaminated boreal forest soil using organic and inorganic amendments
Authors: Indraratne S.P. , Kumaragamage D. , Goltz D. , Dharmakeerthi R.S. , Zvomuya F.
Published: December 2019

Metal-contaminated soils present a great threat to natural ecosystems and human health. Remediation studies focusing on metal-polluted soils with high organic matter (OM > 20%) are limited. This study evaluated the effectiveness of biochar, compost, diammonium phosphate (DAP), and iron oxides (Fe-O), in immobilizing metals from an OM-rich boreal forest soil contaminated with arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn). A laboratory incubation study was conducted with soil amended with biochar (5% w w−1), compost (5% w w−1), DAP (0.2% w w−1), or Fe-O (0.2% w w−1), and a control (without amendment) for 6 months at field capacity moisture content. Metal concentrations were determined in pore water collected at 0, 2, 4, and 6 months after incubation. Soil was extracted sequentially for metals after the incubation period. Metal concentrations in pore water were significantly reduced by different amendments as follows: As by biochar and Fe-O, Cd by biochar, compost, and DAP, Cu by biochar, Pb by compost and DAP, and Zn by biochar and compost. Sequential extractions revealed biochar and (or) compost transferred Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn from the labile pool to the non-labile pool confirming their effectiveness as amendments for remediation of metal-contaminated OM-rich boreal forest soil.
Preliminary design of a revolute to prismatic morphing compliant joint
Authors: Mouazé Nicolas , Birglen Lionel
Published: December 2019

The reduction of weight and size of mechanisms are important and difficult challenges considering portability, energy efficiency, and simplicity of fabrication. One of the solutions to address these issues consists of mechanisms with variable topology for which the mobility of the output is a succession of several simpler elementary motions. This change of mobility allows for achieving complex motions without necessitating a complicated design where many actuators or types of mechanical transmissions are required. Indeed, these variable topology mechanisms, also referred to as morphing mechanisms, have the ability to change their output motion throughout their workspace. Hand tools, medical devices, and aerospace robotic end-effectors are potential applications of this technology. In this paper, conceptual designs of such a revolute to prismatic morphing joint and its implementation using compliant hinges are proposed. Additionally, performance indexes pertaining to the desired output motion are proposed. First, a pseudo-rigid body model of a design candidate is presented, and simulations of this model are compared with finite element analyses to ensure accuracy. Then, several design features are quantitatively evaluated to propose improvements for future versions of the design. Finally, an early prototype illustrates the potential and feasibility of the proposed design as well as a possible application. Video
Asymptotic eigenfunctions for Schrödinger operators on a vector bundle
Authors: Ludewig Matthias , Rosenberger Elke
Published: December 2019

In the limit [Formula: see text], we analyze a class of Schrödinger operators [Formula: see text] acting on sections of a vector bundle [Formula: see text] over a Riemannian manifold [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a Laplace type operator, [Formula: see text] is an endomorphism field and the potential energy [Formula: see text] has a non-degenerate minimum at some point [Formula: see text]. We construct quasimodes of WKB-type near [Formula: see text] for eigenfunctions associated with the low-lying eigenvalues of [Formula: see text]. These are obtained from eigenfunctions of the associated harmonic oscillator [Formula: see text] at [Formula: see text], acting on smooth functions on the tangent space.
Dried plum-like ZnO assemblies consisted of ZnO nanoparticles synthesized by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis
Authors: Zhang Congzhi , Han Tao , Wang Wei , Zhang Jin
Published: December 2019

Dried plum-like ZnO assemblies consisting ZnO nanoparticles were synthesized by an ultrasonic spray pyrolysis method (USP). ZnO assemblies were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and field-emission transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results show the size of ZnO assemblies is in the range of 300–870 nm, and that of ZnO nanoparticles is from 33 nm to 39 nm. The microstructure and size of ZnO assemblies were successfully controlled by the concentration of the precursor solution.
The influence of co-doping strontium and zirconium on structure and ionic conductivities of Li6+yLa3−ySryNbZrO12 solid electrolytes
Authors: Zhang Tianhang , Liu Yangai , Christopher Timothy Daniel , Huang Saifang , Yang Tao , Huang Zhaohui , Gao Wei , Söhnel Tilo , Cao Peng
Published: December 2019

To enhance the ionic conductivity of lithium garnets, a co-doping strategy was adopted with both strontium and zirconium for [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text], 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1.0) (LLSNZO). By increasing the content of Sr, lithium garnet ceramics maintain cubic structure when [Formula: see text] is in the range of 0–0.75. A secondary phase of [Formula: see text] appeared in the ceramic when [Formula: see text]. We also studied the cross-section of lithium garnets with silver electrode. Results showed that the density of LLSNZO ceramics increased continuously against the increase of Sr content, while their total ionic conductivity enhanced initially and then reduced, with the maximum reached when [Formula: see text]. It is indicated that ionic conductivity of lithium garnets is not only decided by the density but also decided by the concentration and the mobility of [Formula: see text].
Microstructure and properties of Co3W2 heat-resistant steel by vacuum electron beam welding
Authors: Zhang Youyi , Gou Guoqing
Published: December 2019

12Cr10Co3W2MoNiVNbNB (Co3W2) is a new type of martensitic heat-resistant steel, which is mainly used in high-temperature dynamic, static blades, high-temperature bolts and other components of ultra-supercritical steam turbines. The Co3W2 steel was joined by vacuum electron beam welding, and the microstructures of the joints were analyzed. The hardness, tensile strength and impact toughness of the joints were investigated. The results show that the joints mainly consist of weld metal, fusion-line, heat-affected zone (HAZ) and base metal, the microstructure of the weld metal is a coarse martensite. The hardness of the weld metal is about 326 HV higher than that of the base metal, and the tensile strength of the joints is 939 MPa, which can reach 98.63% of base metal. The impact absorbed energy of weld metal is such that the weakest part of the welded joints during the impact process is about 18.5 J.