bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
mHealth and big-data integration: promises for healthcare system in India
Authors: Madanian Samaneh , Parry Dave T , Airehrour David , Cherrington Marianne
Published: April 2020

Background

The use of mobile devices in health (mobile health/mHealth) coupled with related technologies promises to transform global health delivery by creating new delivery models that can be integrated with existing health services. These delivery models could facilitate healthcare delivery into rural areas where there is limited access to high-quality access care. Mobile technologies, Internet of Things and 5G connectivity may hold the key to supporting increased velocity, variety and volume of healthcare data.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to identify and analyse challenges related to the current status of India’s healthcare system—with a specific focus on mHealth and big-data analytics technologies. To address these challenges, a framework is proposed for integrating the generated mHealth big-data and applying the results in India's healthcare.

Method

A critical review was conducted using electronic sources between December 2018 and February 2019, limited to English language articles and reports published from 2010 onwards.

Main outcome

This paper describes trending relationships in mHealth with big-data as well as the accessibility of national opportunities when specific barriers and constraints are overcome. The paper concentrates on the healthcare delivery problems faced by rural and low-income communities in India to illustrate more general aspects and identify key issues. A model is proposed that utilises generated data from mHealth devices for big-data analysis that could result in providing insights into the India population health status. The insights could be important for public health planning by the government towards reaching the Universal Health Coverage.

Conclusion

Biomedical, behavioural and lifestyle data from individuals may enable customised and improved healthcare services to be delivered. The analysis of data from mHealth devices can reveal new knowledge to effectively and efficiently support national healthcare demands in less developed nations, without fully accessible healthcare systems.
Reliability of administrative data to identify sexually transmitted infections for population health: a systematic review
Authors: Dixon Brian E , Rahurkar Saurabh , Ho Yenling , Arno Janet N
Published: April 2020

Introduction

International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes in administrative health data are used to identify cases of disease, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), for population health research. The purpose of this review is to examine the extant literature on the reliability of ICD codes to correctly identify STIs.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of empirical articles in which ICD codes were validated with respect to their ability to identify cases of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Articles that included sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value of ICD codes were the target. In addition to keyword searches in PubMed and Scopus databases, we further examined bibliographies of articles selected for full review to maximise yield.

Results

From a total of 1779 articles identified, only two studies measured the reliability of ICD codes to identify cases of STIs. Both articles targeted PID, a serious complication of chlamydia and gonorrhoea. Neither article directly assessed the validity of ICD codes to identify cases of chlamydia, gonorrhoea or syphilis independent of PID. Using ICD codes alone, the positive predictive value for PID was mixed (range: 18%–79%).

Discussion and conclusion

While existing studies have used ICD codes to identify STI cases, their reliability is unclear. Further, available evidence from studies of PID suggests potentially large variation in the accuracy of ICD codes indicating the need for primary studies to evaluate ICD codes for use in STI-related public health research.
Patient and carer survey of remote vital sign telemonitoring for self-management of long-term conditions
Authors: Walkden Julie-Ann , McCullagh Paul Joseph , Kernohan W George
Published: April 2020

Background

Home-based self-monitoring has failed to show intended savings to healthcare budgets yet it continues to emerge and gain popularity.

Objective

We set out to verify stakeholders’ perspectives of remote vital sign telemonitoring.

Design

An observational design was adopted by devising a survey for distribution to service users and their informal carers.

Sample

Service users in South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust were included. A total of 274 questionnaires were issued. Data from 97 patients (35% response rate) and 49 carers were analysed. Of these, 81 patients and 48 of their carers experienced a monitoring service known as TF3 and 16 patients and 1 carer experienced a service known as U-Tell. The cohorts comprised people living with a number of long-term conditions: diabetes, hypertension after stroke, chronic heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, bronchiectasis and those requiring anticoagulation using warfarin.

Results

Analysis showed that respondents were supportive of the technology with 90.7% of patients agreeing or strongly agreeing with the statement:the remote monitoring system assisted me in managing my health on a day-to-day basis. The patients liked the technology largely because it provided empowerment and control for self-management and allowed them to continue with their lives without major disruption. These views were independent of the technology used and not associated with the patient’s long-term conditions, gender or age. There were no reported adverse incidents.

Conclusion

As self-monitoring becomes more relevant to healthcare delivery, the technology will be accepted by many in the population with long-term conditions.
Physician leadership and health information exchange: literature review
Authors: Heath Michele L , Porter Tracy H
Published: April 2020

Background

Notwithstanding two decades of health information exchange (HIE) failures across the country, the US government has incorporated HIE into Meaningful Use Stage 2, which, in turn, has sparked renewed physicians’ interest in HIE.

Objective

The purpose of this paper was to conduct a literature review to understand how physician leadership might have assisted in supporting organisations in achieving HIE collaboration.

Method

The authors conducted a review of the literature about HIE and physician challenges from 2009 to present to identify peer-reviewed publications which might apply. Reviewers abstracted each publication for predetermined issues related to physician leadership. Themes were identified based on the literature findings.

Results

The literature review demonstrated four important themes (physician leader characteristics) that can assist in bridging the gap and creating collaboration in an HIE. The themes found in this study were: trust among physicians, promote involvement and buy-in, infuse value proposition and competition.

Conclusion

This paper contributes to the healthcare literature by conducting a literature review of the existing literature of surrounding HIE implementation and physician leaders. Specifically, we sought to gain insight into the change process and how physician leaders have demonstrated an impact on the process. This research is the first of its kind to synthesise leadership issues related to HIE and specifically explore the role of physician leader impact on HIE.
Evaluating a post-implementation electronic medical record training intervention for diabetes management in primary care
Authors: Randhawa Gurprit Kaur , Shachak Aviv , Courtney Karen L , Kushniruk Andre
Published: April 2020

Objective

This study evaluated the potential for electronic medical record (EMR) video tutorials to improve diabetes (type 1 and 2) care processes by primary care physicians (PCP) using OSCAR EMR.

Design

A QUAN(qual) mixed methods approach with an embedded design was used for the overall research study. EMR video tutorials were developed based on the chronic care model (CCM), value-adding EMR use, best practice guidelines for designing software video tutorials and clinician-led EMR training.

Results

In total, 18 PCPs from British Columbia, Canada, participated in the study. The video EMR intervention elicited a statistically significant increase in EMR advanced feature use for diabetes care, with a large effect size (ie,F(1,51)=6.808, p<0.001, partial η2=0.286).

Conclusion

This small-scale efficacy study demonstrates the potential of CCM-based EMR video tutorials to improve EMR use for chronic diseases, such as diabetes. A larger-scale effectiveness study with a control group is needed to further validate the study findings and determine their generalisability. The demonstrated efficacy of the intervention suggests that EMR video tutorials may be a cost-effective, sustainable and scalable strategy for supporting EMR optimisation and the continuous learning and development of PCPs. Health informatics practitioners may develop video tutorials for their respective EMR/electronic health record software based on theory and best practices for video tutorial design. For patients, EMR video tutorials may lead to improved tracking of processes of care for diabetes, and potentially other chronic conditions.
A referral pathway for potentially abnormal neurodevelopment in children with heart disease in the United Kingdom: a Delphi consensus
Authors: Hoskote Aparna , Wray Jo , Banks Victoria , Brown Katherine , Lakhanpaul Monica
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Children with congenital heart disease have complex medical and neurodevelopmental needs. We aimed to develop a multi-professional consensus-based referral pathway applicable to action the results of the brief developmental assessment (BDA), a validated early recognition tool, that categorises the neurodevelopmental status as green (appropriate for age), amber (equivocal) or red (delayed) in children aged between 4 months and 5 years.

Methods

A Delphi consensus survey detailing two scenarios—a child categorised as delayed (red) and another as equivocal (amber) on administration of the BDA at the time of discharge from the tertiary centre—was sent to 80 expert professionals from primary, secondary and tertiary care seeking agreement on next steps and referral pathways. An iterative process was proposed with a pre-defined rule of 75% for consensus.

Results

The survey was completed by 77 Delphi panel experts in Round 1, 73 in Round 2 and 70 in Round 3. Consensus was achieved (1) for the child with amber or red BDA, the child should be under the care of a paediatrician with expertise in cardiology (PEC) (or general paediatrician if no PEC) based at their local hospital, (2) for the child with red BDA, the PEC should initiate referral to community services at first assessment, (3) for child with amber BDA, a re-assessment by the health visitor should occur within 1–2 months, with referral to community services and notification to the PEC if on-going concerns.

Conclusions

The Delphi process enabled a consensus to be reached between health professionals on referral pathways for specialist neurodevelopmental assessment/treatment for children with heart disease, in response to amber or red BDA results. The agreed referral pathway, if implemented, could underpin a national guideline to address and intervene on the neurodevelopmental difficulties in children with heart disease.
From barefoot hunter gathering to shod pavement pounding. Where to from here? A narrative review
Authors: Francis Peter , Schofield Grant
Published: April 2020

Understanding the current prevalence and incidence of running injury from an evolutionary perspective has sparked great debate. Proponents of the evolutionary approach to understanding running injury suggest that humans ran using less injurious biomechanics prior to the invention of cushioned running shoes. Those who disagree with this view, point to the many runners, wearing cushioned running shoes, who do not get injured and suggest that the evolutionary approach is indulging in a ‘natural fallacy’. This polarises the scientific debate into discrete categories such as ‘shod’ vs ‘barefoot’. This review aims, first, to describe humans’ innate impact moderating mechanisms which arise from our evolutionary legacy. Second, we discuss the impact of footwear on these mechanisms and the potential link to injury in some runners. Finally, we discuss the role of barefoot training in sports medicine and attempt to make some practical suggestions as to how it might be integrated in our modern urban environments.
Diversity in NHS clinical leadership: Is better talent management the route to gender balance?
Authors: Gilmartin Molly , Woods Niamh , Patel Shruti , Brummell Zoe
Published: April 2020

Methodology

Through interviews with seven senior female clinical leaders, insights were gained regarding the importance of and need for gender diversity in leadership. These interviews looked at the skills, access and opportunities required to ensure that gender diversity exists and is successful in senior clinical leadership positions.

Conclusion

Gender diversity in leadership can be enhanced through the combination of several measures; Increased mentorship, talent management, training and network opportunities, improvements to advertising, interview panel diversity and succession planning.
‘Never forget’: fictionalising the Holocaust survivor with dementia
Authors: Vice Sue
Published: April 2020

This article asks what the reasons are for the frequent linking of the image of the Holocaust with that of dementia in contemporary discursive and representational practice. In doing so, it analyses some of the numerous 21st-century examples of fiction, drama and film in which the figure of a Holocaust survivor living with dementia takes centre stage. It explores the contradictory cultural effects that arise from making such a connection, in contexts that include expressions of fear at the spectacle of dementia, as well as comparisons between the person living with that condition and the inmate of a concentration camp. Detailed consideration of novels by Jillian Cantor and Harriet Scott Chessman as well as a play by Michel Wallenstein and a film by Josh Appignanesi suggests that the fictions of this kind can appear to provide solace for the impending loss of the eyewitness generation, yet also offer potential for a model for caregiving practice to those living with dementia in broader terms.
Impact of tricuspid regurgitation on postoperative outcomes after non-cardiac surgeries
Authors: Parikh Parth , Banerjee Kinjal , Ali Ambreen , Anumandla Anil , Patel Aditi , Jobanputra Yash , Menon Venu , Griffin Brian , Tuzcu E Murat , Kapadia Samir
Published: April 2020

Objective

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) severity has known adverse implications, its impact on patients undergoing non-cardiac surgery (NCS) remains unclear. We sought to determine the impact of TR on patient outcomes after NCS.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study in patients undergoing NCS. Outcomes in patients with moderate or severe TR were compared with no/trivial TR after adjusting for baseline characteristics and revised cardiac risk index (RCRI). The primary outcome was defined as 30-day mortality and heart failure (HF), while the secondary outcome was long-term mortality.

Results

Of the 7064 patients included, 312 and 80 patients had moderate and severe TR, respectively. Thirty-day mortality was higher in moderate TR (adjusted OR 2.44, 95% CI 1.25 to 4.76) and severe TR (OR 2.85, 95% CI 1.04 to 7.79) compared with no/trivial TR. There was no difference in 30-day HF in patients with moderate TR (OR 1.48, 95% CI 0.90 to 2.44) or severe TR (OR 1.42, 95% CI 0.60 to 3.39). The adjusted HR for long-term mortality in moderate TR was 1.55 (95% CI 1.31 to 1.82) and 1.87 (95% CI 1.40 to 2.50) for severe TR compared with no/trivial TR.

Conclusion

Increasing TR severity has higher postoperative 30-day mortality in patients undergoing NCS, independent of RCRI risk factors, ejection fraction or mitral regurgitation. Severity of TR should be considered in risk stratification for patients undergoing NCS.
Correlates of tobacco product reuptake and relapse among youth and adults in the USA: findings from the PATH Study Waves 1–3 (2013–2016)
Authors: Edwards Kathryn C , Kasza Karin A , Tang Zhiqun , Stanton Cassandra A , Sharma Eva , Halenar Michael J , Taylor Kristie A , Donaldson Elisabeth A , Hull Lynn C , Bansal-Travers Maansi , Limpert Jean , Zandberg Izabella , Gardner Lisa D , Borek Nicolette , Kimmel Heather L , Compton Wilson M , Hyland Andrew
Published: April 2020

Objective

This study examines sociodemographic and tobacco use correlates of reuptake and relapse to tobacco use across a variety of tobacco products (cigarettes, electronic nicotine delivery systems, cigars, hookah and smokeless tobacco) among the US population.

Design

Data were drawn from the first three waves (2013–2016) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study, a nationally representative, longitudinal cohort study of US youth (ages 12–17) and adults (ages 18+). Reuptake (past 30-day use among previous tobacco users) and relapse (current use among former established users; adults only) were examined among previous users of at least one type of tobacco product at Wave 1 (W1) or Wave 2 (W2) (n=19 120 adults, n=3039 youth). Generalised estimating equations were used to evaluate the association between demographic and tobacco use characteristics at baseline, with reuptake/relapse at follow-up, over two 1-year periods (W1–W2 and W2–Wave 3).

Results

Any tobacco product reuptake occurred in 7.8% of adult previous users and 30.3% of youth previous users. Correlates of any tobacco reuptake included being male, non-Hispanic black and bisexual in adults, but race and sexual orientation were not consistent findings in youth. Among recent former users, relapse rates were greater (32.9%). Shorter time since last use and greater levels of tobacco dependence showed the strongest association with any tobacco relapse.

Discussion

Continued clinical and public health efforts to provide adults with tools to cope with tobacco dependence symptoms, especially within the first year or two after quitting, could help prevent relapse.
Correlates of tobacco product initiation among youth and adults in the USA: findings from the PATH Study Waves 1–3 (2013–2016)
Authors: Kasza Karin A , Edwards Kathryn C , Tang Zhiqun , Stanton Cassandra A , Sharma Eva , Halenar Michael J , Taylor Kristie A , Donaldson Elisabeth , Hull Lynn C , Day Hannah , Bansal-Travers Maansi , Limpert Jean , Zandberg Izabella , Gardner Lisa D , Hammad Hoda T , Borek Nicolette , Kimmel Heather L , Compton Wilson M , Hyland Andrew
Published: April 2020

Objective

To report on demographic and tobacco product use correlates of tobacco product initiation (cigarettes, electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), cigars, hookah and smokeless tobacco) among the US population.

Design

Data were from the first three waves (2013–2016) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study, a nationally representative, longitudinal cohort study of US youth (aged 12–17 years) and adults (aged 18+ years). Never users of at least one type of tobacco product at Wave 1 (W1, 2013/14) or Wave 2 (W2, 2014/15) were included (n=12 987 youth; n=25 116 adults). Generalised estimating equations were used to evaluate the association between demographic and tobacco product use characteristics at baseline, and tobacco product initiation at follow-up (ever, past 30 day (P30D), frequent (use on 20 or more of thepast 30 days)) over two 1-year periods (W1–W2 and W2–Wave 3).

Results

Youth aged 15–17 years were more likely than youth aged 12–14 years and adults aged 18–24 years were more likely than older adults to initiate P30D tobacco use across products; non-heterosexuals were more likely than heterosexuals to initiate P30D cigarette and ENDS use. Older adults were more likely than young adults, and males were more likely than females, to be frequent users of ENDS on initiation. Ever use of another tobacco product predicted P30D initiation of each tobacco product.

Discussion

Other tobacco product use and age predict P30D tobacco initiation across products whereas associations with other demographic characteristics vary by product. Continued contemporary evaluation of initiation rates within the changing tobacco product marketplace is important.
MRI findings and surgical treatment of a carpal synovial cyst in a dog
Authors: Tzounos Caitlin , Taeymans Olivier , Quinn Rob , Haimel Georg
Published: April 2020

A male neutered pug aged 3 years and 3 months presented with a 4‐month history of persistent left thoracic limb lameness, which was associated with a firm swelling on the palmerolateral aspect of the carpus. MRI confirmed a fluid‐filled structure, which appeared to be associated with the joint space. The structure was surgically excised. Histopathology confirmed a true synovial cyst. Follow‐up by telephone and email with the owner 18 months after surgery confirmed the patient was clinically well, with complete resolution of the lameness and no recurrence of swelling. This report discusses the MRI characteristics and successful treatment of a carpal synovial cyst causing lameness in the absence of osteoarthritis. There was long‐term resolution of clinical signs with surgical excision of the cyst.
Examining the influence of battery sizing on hydrogen fuel cell – battery hybrid rail powertrains (hydrail) for regional passenger railway transport using dynamic component models
Authors: Hegazi Mohamed A. , Markley Loïc , Lovegrove Gord
Published: April 2020

To address the transportation sector’s contribution to climate change problems across North America (NA), passenger rail is an attractive solution. However, NA passenger rail traditionally relies on diesel motive power, which has been associated with causing health problems of noise, vibrations, and emissions. High costs of overhead and (or) third rail infrastructure have mostly precluded electrification. This paper examines the impact of battery size on fuel cell stack efficiency for hydrogen fuel cell – battery hybrid (hydrail) railway propulsion systems using dynamic simulations as opposed to existing simulations in the literature that rely on static efficiency values. The journey of the British Rail Class 156 diesel multiple unit is simulated over the round trip from Trehafod to Treherbert (UK) using a series hybrid architecture powertrain. Dynamic simulations at incremental battery masses were used to assess fuel cell efficiency, maximum power, and overall hydrogen consumption. Battery mass is employed as a proxy for power and energy capability of the battery. Results suggest that hydrail passenger railway systems work well, with hydrogen fuel cells handling most load dynamics. Hybridization with batteries works best and reduces fuel cell stack size and hydrogen consumption, with overall 64% stack efficiency.
Effect of particle size and CO2 treatment of waste cement powder on properties of cement paste
Authors: Mehdizadeh Hamideh , Ling Tung-Chai , Cheng Xiongfei , Mo Kim Hung
Published: April 2020

This paper studies the role of CO2 treatment and the impact of particle size (<75 μm and 75–150 μm) of waste cement powder (WCP) with different cement replacement content (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 30%) on the physical properties and microstructure of blended cement paste. The results show that carbonation of WCP can effectively increase the flowability of paste due to the formation of calcite and decrease the porosity of WCP microstructure, while the water demand to achieve the same workability decreases with increasing size of WCP particles. Cement paste containing decreased particles of carbonated waste cement powder possesses a higher 28 day compressive strength due to formation of a higher amount of calcite and hydration products, based on the thermogravimetric analysis.
Quasinormal modes of charged regular black hole
Authors: López L.A. , Hinojosa V.
Published: April 2020

The quasinormal modes (QNMs) of a charged regular black hole are calculated in the eikonal approximation. In the eikonal limit, the QNMs of the black hole are determined by the parameters of unstable circular null geodesics. The behavior of the QNMs are compared with the QNMs of a Reisner–Nordström black hole by fixing some of the parameters that characterize the black holes and varying others. We observed that the parameter that is related to the effective cosmological constant at small distances determines the behavior of the QNMs of a regular charged black hole.
Fully developed Darcy-Forchheimer nanomaterial flow with Cattaneo–Christov (CC) double diffusion model
Authors: Khan M. Ijaz , Hafeez M. U. , Hayat T. , Alsaedi A.
Published: April 2020

The current work examines the MHD convective stagnation point flow of nanofluid over a stretched surface. A uniform magnetic field is applied in a transverse direction. Darcy–Forchheimer’s relation is accounted to demonstrate the flow nature in a permeable medium. Cattaneo–Christov heat and mass flux expressions are incorporated in the modeling. Velocity slip conditions are taken. The non-dimensional velocity, temperature and concentration field are analyzed via pertinent flow parameters like permeability parameter, Buoyancy or mixed convection variable, magnetic parameter, Prandtl number and surface thickness parameter. Results are tabulated for the surface drag force. The Homotopic technique is utilized for the series solution of differential system.
Risk-Reward Trade-Off and Volatility Performance of Islamic Versus Conventional Stock Indices: Global Evidence
Authors: Abu-Alkheil Ahmad , Khan Walayet A. , Parikh Bhavik
Published: April 2020

In this paper, we compare the performance of Islamic stock indices (ISI) and conventional stock indices (CSI) from FTSE, DJ, MSCI, S&Ps and Jakarta series using common risk-return metrics. The sample consists of 64 ISI and CSI, and covers the period from 2002 to 2017. The majority of the stock indices are from the Pacific Rim countries’ stock markets. Additionally, we employ the GARCH-M model to examine the impact of past volatility on spot returns. Findings suggest that the ISI are less sensitive to the average market movements compared to the CSI, but surprisingly offer similar raw returns suggesting primary support for the low risk-high return paradox. On further examination, results reveal that M2, Omega, Sharpe and Treynor measures indicate that ISI underperform CSI while Jensen’s alpha and Sortino ratio put ISI ahead of CSI. Moreover, findings show that pre-crisis winners (CSI) were losers during the 2008 crisis but subsequently recovered and ended up with higher returns than ISI. Findings also show that the previous volatility of stock returns can be potentially used for predicting future returns.
Studies on Group IV and V Valve Metal Corrosion in Acidic Fluoride Media
Authors: Rao Tirumala Mandula , Punathil Meethal Ranjith , Amrutha M S , Srinivasan Ramanathan
Published: April 2020

Dissolution rates of Ti, Zr, Nb and Ta in acidic fluoride media of different concentrations at various temperatures were measured by weight loss method, and were complemented by electrochemical measurements at room temperatures. A mathematical model to estimate the corrosion rate of these four valve metals based on the overall reaction mechanism for metal dissolution as well as H2 evolution is developed from the weight loss experiments. Valve metal dissolution process occurs through two independent pathways assisted by (HF2)− and equilibrium HF species. Except Ti, the dissolution of other valve metals studied are not significantly influenced by the H2 evolution reaction. Among the four metals evaluated, Nb offers the best corrosion resistance at high temperature and high HF concentration. The corrosion resistance of all four valve metals estimated from linear polarization, electrochemical spectroscopy and Tafel extrapolation in various concentrations of solutions match well. For Ti, dissolution rates calculated from Tafel extrapolation were lower than those based on weight loss experiments, while for Zr, Nb and Ta, they were mostly higher than those based on weight loss experiments.
Depletion of resident muscle stem cells negatively impacts running volume, physical function, and muscle fiber hypertrophy in response to lifelong physical activity
Authors: Englund Davis A. , Murach Kevin A. , Dungan Cory M. , Figueiredo Vandré C. , Vechetti Ivan J. , Dupont-Versteegden Esther E. , McCarthy John J. , Peterson Charlotte A.
Published: April 2020

To date, studies that have aimed to investigate the role of satellite cells during adult skeletal muscle adaptation and hypertrophy have utilized a nontranslational stimulus and/or have been performed over a relatively short time frame. Although it has been shown that satellite cell depletion throughout adulthood does not drive skeletal muscle loss in sedentary mice, it remains unknown how satellite cells participate in skeletal muscle adaptation to long-term physical activity. The current study was designed to determine whether reduced satellite cell content throughout adulthood would influence the transcriptome-wide response to physical activity and diminish the adaptive response of skeletal muscle. We administered vehicle or tamoxifen to adult Pax7-diphtheria toxin A (DTA) mice to deplete satellite cells and assigned them to sedentary or wheel-running conditions for 13 mo. Satellite cell depletion throughout adulthood reduced balance and coordination, overall running volume, and the size of muscle proprioceptors (spindle fibers). Furthermore, satellite cell participation was necessary for optimal muscle fiber hypertrophy but not adaptations in fiber type distribution in response to lifelong physical activity. Transcriptome-wide analysis of the plantaris and soleus revealed that satellite cell function is muscle type specific; satellite cell-dependent myonuclear accretion was apparent in oxidative muscles, whereas initiation of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling in the glycolytic plantaris may require satellite cells to induce optimal adaptations to long-term physical activity. These findings suggest that satellite cells play a role in preserving physical function during aging and influence muscle adaptation during sustained periods of physical activity.
Gene expression profiling of bronchial brushes is associated with the level of emphysema measured by computed tomography-based parametric response mapping
Authors: Rathnayake Senani N. H. , Hoesein Firdaus A. A. Mohamed , Galban Craig J. , ten Hacken Nick H. T. , Oliver Brian G. G. , van den Berge Maarten , Faiz Alen
Published: April 2020

Parametric response mapping (PRM) is a computed tomography (CT)-based method to phenotype patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It is capable of differentiating emphysema-related air trapping with nonemphysematous air trapping (small airway disease), which helps to identify the extent and localization of the disease. Most studies evaluating the gene expression in smokers and COPD patients related this to spirometric measurements, but none have investigated the relationship with CT-based measurements of lung structure. The current study aimed to examine gene expression profiles of brushed bronchial epithelial cells in association with the PRM-defined CT-based measurements of emphysema (PRMEmph) and small airway disease (PRMfSAD). Using the Top Institute Pharma (TIP) study cohort (COPD = 12 and asymptomatic smokers = 32), we identified a gene expression signature of bronchial brushings, which was associated with PRMEmph in the lungs. One hundred thirty-three genes were identified to be associated with PRMEmph. Among the most significantly associated genes, CXCL11 is a potent chemokine involved with CD8+ T cell activation during inflammation in COPD, indicating that it may play an essential role in the development of emphysema. The PRMEmph signature was then replicated in two independent data sets. Pathway analysis showed that the PRMEmph signature is associated with proinflammatory and notch signaling pathways. Together these findings indicate that airway epithelium may play a role in the development of emphysema and/or may act as a biomarker for the presence of emphysema. In contrast, its role in relation to functional small airways disease is less clear.
The importance of reporting house dust mite endotoxin abundance: impact on the lung transcriptome
Authors: Pascoe Christopher D. , Jha Aruni , Basu Sujata , Mahood Thomas , Lee Amy , Hinshaw Sam , Falsafi Reza , Hancock Robert E. W. , Mookherjee Neeloffer , Halayko Andrew J. ,   Canadian Respiratory Research Network
Published: April 2020

The abundance of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in house dust mite (HDM) preparations is broad and mirrors the variability seen in the homes of people with asthma. LPS in commercially available stocks ranges from 31 to 5,2000 endotoxin units. The influence of vastly different LPS loads on the mechanisms that define the immune and inflammatory phenotype of HDM-challenged mice has not been defined. This aim of the study was to understand the lung phenotype of mice challenged with HDM extract containing high or low levels of LPS. Female BALB/c mice were sensitized for 2 wk with commercial HDM extract containing either high (36,000 endotoxin units; HHDM) or low (615 endotoxin units; LHDM) levels of LPS. Lung phenotype was characterized by measuring lung function, total and differential cell counts, cytokine abundance, and the lung transcriptome by RNA-sequencing. LPS levels in HDM stocks used for preclinical asthma research in mice remain poorly reported. In 2019, only 14% of papers specified LPS concentration in HDM lots. Specific differences existed in airway responsiveness between mice challenged with HHDM or LHDM. HHDM- and LHDM-induced cytokine profiles of bronchial lavage were significantly different and the lung transcriptome was differentially enriched for genes involved in DNA damage repair or cilium movement, following HHDM or LHDM challenge, respectively. The abundance of LPS in commercially available HDM influences the phenotype of allergic airways inflammation in mice. Failure to report the level of LPS in HDM extracts used in animal models of airway disease will lead to inconsistency in reproducibility and reliability of published data.
Implication of the ipsilateral motor network in unilateral voluntary muscle contraction: the cross-activation phenomenon
Authors: Cabibel Vincent , Hordacre Brenton , Perrey Stéphane
Published: April 2020

Voluntary force production requires that the brain produces and transmits a motor command to the muscles. It is widely acknowledged that motor commands are executed from the primary motor cortex (M1) located in the contralateral hemisphere. However, involvement of M1 located in the ipsilateral hemisphere during moderate to high levels of unilateral muscle contractions (>30% of the maximum) has been disclosed in recent years. This phenomenon has been termed cross-activation. The activation of the ipsilateral M1 relies on complex inhibitory and excitatory interhemispheric interactions mediated via the corpus callosum and modulated according to the contraction level. The regulatory mechanisms underlying these interhemispheric interactions, especially excitatory ones, remain vague, and contradictions exist in the literature. In addition, very little is known regarding the possibility that other pathways could also mediate the cross-activation. In the present review, we will therefore summarize the concept of cross-activation during unilateral voluntary muscle contraction and explore the associated mechanisms and other nervous system pathways underpinning this response. A broader knowledge of these mechanisms would consequently allow a better comprehension of the motor system as a whole, as distant brain networks working together to produce the motor command.
Toward natural grasping with a tool: effects of practice and required accuracy on the kinematics of tool-use grasping
Authors: Itaguchi Yoshihiro
Published: April 2020

This study is the first reporting the relation between characteristic aperture time profile, called plateau duration, and movement time of tool-use grasping. The results suggest that improved coordination between reaching and grasping components was induced by improvement in the proficiency of tool use but not by just shortened movement time. The results also indicate the possibility that the constraints for calculations in motor planning are essentially the same between hand-use grasping and tool-use grasping.
Ancestral persistence of vestibulospinal reflexes in axial muscles in humans
Authors: Guillaud Etienne , Faure Céline , Doat Emilie , Bouyer Laurent J. , Guehl Dominique , Cazalets Jean-René
Published: April 2020

This study addresses the extent of conservation of trunk muscle control in humans. Results show that galvanic vestibular stimulation-evoked vestibular responses in trunk muscles remain strong in conditions where leg muscle responses are downmodulated (walking, standing, microgravity). This suggests a phylogenetically conserved blueprint of sensorimotor organization, with strongly hardwired vestibulospinal inputs to axial motoneurons and a higher degree of flexibility in the later emerging limb control system.
On Zero Left Prime Factorizations for Matrices over Unique Factorization Domains
Authors: Liu Jinwang , Wu Tao , Li Dongmei , Guan Jiancheng
Published: April 2020

In this paper, zero prime factorizations for matrices over a unique factorization domain are studied. We prove that zero prime factorizations for a class of matrices exist. Also, we give an algorithm to directly compute zero left prime factorizations for this class of matrices.
Optimization of Abnormal Point Cloud Recognition in Robot Vision Grinding System Based on Multidimensional Improved Eigenvalue Method (MIEM)
Authors: Li Guanglei , Cui Yahui , Wang Lihua , Meng Lei
Published: April 2020

To improve the accurate and sufficient recognition of abnormal points on the workpiece, a multidimensional anomaly point identification approach based on an improved eigenvalue method is proposed in this paper. Whether a point is normal or not depends on the angle between the two adjacent vectors which consisted of four adjacent points around the current focus. The comprehensive judgment is carried out by multidimensional approximation. The numerical simulation and actual experiment validate the efficiency of the proposed method to quickly and accurately identify the abnormal point cloud in the surface point cloud data.
Integrating the Finite Element Method with a Data‐Driven Approach for Dam Displacement Prediction
Authors: Shao Chenfei , Gu Chongshi , Meng Zhenzhu , Hu Yating
Published: April 2020

Both numerical simulations and data‐driven methods have been applied in dam’s displacement modeling. For monitored displacement data‐driven methods, the physical mechanism and structural correlations were rarely discussed. In order to take the spatial and temporal correlations among all monitoring points into account, we took the first step toward integrating the finite element method into a data‐driven model. As the data‐driven method, we selected the random coefficient model, which can make each explanatory variable coefficient of all monitoring points following one or several normal distributions. In this way, explanatory variables are constrained. Another contribution of the proposed model is that the actual elastic modulus at each monitoring point can be back‐calculated. Moreover, with a Lagrange polynomial interpolation, we can obtain the distribution field of elastic modulus, rather than gaining one value for the whole dam in previous studies. The proposed model was validated by a case study of the concrete arch dam in Jinping‐I hydropower station. It has a better prediction precision than the random coefficient model without the finite element method.
Utility of Ascitic Fluid Adenosine Deaminase Levels in the Diagnosis of Tuberculous Peritonitis in General Medical Practice
Authors: Kumabe Ayako , Hatakeyama Shuji , Kanda Naoki , Yamamoto Yu , Matsumura Masami
Published: April 2020

Background. Tuberculous peritonitis is difficult to diagnose due to its varying clinical features, in addition to the low yield on bacterial culture or polymerase chain reaction using ascitic fluid samples. This study aimed to investigate the sensitivity and specificity of elevated adenosine deaminase (ADA) levels as a diagnostic marker for tuberculous peritonitis. Methods. A retrospective cohort of 181 adult patients who underwent ascitic fluid ADA level examination at Jichi Medical University Hospital between January 2006 and December 2015 were included. We collected data regarding ascitic fluid analyses including ADA levels, bacteriology and cytology, final diagnosis (cause of ascites), basis of the diagnosis, duration to diagnosis, and disease outcome. Results. Among 181 patients, elevated ascitic ADA levels (≥40 IU/L) were observed in 15 patients (median, 87.2 IU/L; range, 44.0–176.1 IU/L); 8 patients had tuberculous peritonitis, 4 had lymphoma-related ascites, and 2,had peritoneal carcinomatosis with bacterial coinfection, and 1 had chlamydial pelvic inflammatory disease. Among 166 patients without ascitic ADA level elevation (median, 7.3 IU/L; range, <2.0–39.1 IU/L), none had tuberculosis, 4 had lymphoma-related ascites, 28 had cancer/mesothelioma-related ascites, and 134 had ascites due to other causes. In our cohort, elevated ascitic fluid ADA levels (≥40 IU/L) showed 100% sensitivity, 96.0% specificity, 53.3% positive predictive value (PPV), and 100% negative predictive value for the diagnosis of peritoneal tuberculosis. Conclusions. Ascitic fluid ADA levels ≥40 IU/L showed excellent sensitivity, despite a low PPV, for the diagnosis of tuberculous peritonitis. Lymphoma-related ascites is an important mimic of tuberculous peritonitis that can result in high ascitic fluid ADA levels with similar clinical manifestations.
Malaria Outbreak Facilitated by Appearance of Vector-Breeding Sites after Heavy Rainfall and Inadequate Preventive Measures: Nwoya District, Northern Uganda, February–May 2018
Authors: Nsereko Godfrey , Kadobera Daniel , Okethwangu Denis , Nguna Joyce , Rutazaana Damian , Kyabayinze Daniel J. , Opigo Jimmy , Ario Alex R.
Published: April 2020

Background. Malaria is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Uganda. In April 2018, malaria cases surged in Nwoya District, Northern Uganda, exceeding expected limits and thereby requiring epidemic response. We investigated this outbreak to estimate its magnitude, identify exposure factors for transmission, and recommend evidence-based control measures. Methods. We defined a malaria case as onset of fever in a resident of Anaka subcounty, Koch Goma subcounty, and Nwoya Town Council, Nwoya District, with a positive rapid diagnostic test or microscopy for malaria from 1 February to 25 May 2018. We reviewed medical records in all health facilities of affected subcounties to find cases. In a case-control study, we compared exposure factors between case-persons and asymptomatic controls matched by age and village. We also conducted entomological assessments on vector density and behavior. Results. We identified 3,879 case-persons (attack rate [AR] = 6.5%) and two deaths (case-fatality rate = 5.2/10,000). Females (AR = 8.1%) were more affected than males (AR = 4.7%) (p<0.0001). Of all age groups, 5–18 years (AR = 8.4%) were most affected. Heavy rain started in early March 2018, and a propagated outbreak followed in the first week of April 2018. In the case-control study, 55% (59/107) of case-persons and 18% (19/107) of controls had stagnant water around households for several days following rainfall (ORM-H = 5.6, 95% CI = 3.0–11); 25% (27/107) of case-persons and 51% (55/107) of controls wore full extremity covering clothes during evening hours (ORM-H = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.20–0.60); 71% (76/107) of case-persons and 85% (91/107) of controls slept under a long-lasting insecticide-treated net (LLIN) 14 days before symptom onset (ORM-H = 0.43, 95% CI = 0.22–0.85); 37% (40/107) of case-persons and 52% (56/107) of controls had access to at least one LLIN per 2 household members (ORM-H = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.30–0.97). Entomological assessment indicated active breeding sites in the entire study area; Anopheles gambiae sensu lato species were the predominant vector. Conclusion. Increased vector-breeding sites after heavy rainfall and inadequate malaria preventive measures were found to have contributed to this outbreak. We recommended increasing coverage for LLINs and larviciding breeding sites in the area.
Pparg may Promote Chemosensitivity of Hypopharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Lian Meng , Chen Jiaming , Shen Xixi , Hou Lizhen , Fang Jugao
Published: April 2020

The upregulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARG) has been shown to increase the chemosensitivity of several human cancers. This study is aimed at studying if PPARG sensitizes hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC) in chemotherapeutic treatments and at dissecting possible mechanisms of observed effects. We integrated large-scale literature data and HSCC gene expression data to identify regulatory pathways that link PPARG and chemosensitivity in HSCC. Expression levels of molecules within the PPARG regulatory pathways were compared in 21 patients that underwent chemotherapy for primary HSCC, including 12 chemotherapy-sensitive patients (CSP) and 9 chemotherapy-nonsensitive patients (CNSP). In the CPS group, expression levels of PPARG were higher than that in the CNSP group (log‐fold‐change=0.50). Structured text mining identified two chemosensitivity-related regulatory pathways driven by PPARG. In the CSP group, expression levels for 7 chemosensitivity-promoting genes were increased, while for 13 chemosensitivity suppressing the gene expression levels were decreased. Our results support the chemosensitivity-promoting role of PPARG in HSCC tumor cells, most likely by affecting both cell proliferation and cell motility pathways.
Robust Receding Horizon Control with Free Control Moves for Polytopic Parametric Uncertainty Systems Subject to Multiple Input Delays
Authors: Yang Jiandong , Cai Yuanli , Ding Baocang
Published: April 2020

A robust receding horizon control (RHC) with free control moves is applied to polytopic parametric uncertainty systems with multiple input delays and unstable system matrices. A difficulty in the previous robust RHC work is that the free control moves are unsuitable for the system with input time delay, which is overcome in this paper by the design based on the augmented state. As a result, the synthesis of local control based on augmented feedback is given offline to alleviate the online computation burden. The free control moves before the augmented feedback are the online decision variables, which are solved by minimizing a sequence of nonnegative scalars online. The recursive feasibility is guaranteed by adopting the augmented state space equation. By adjusting the robust positively invariant set, the stability of the closed-loop system is guaranteed. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm improves the control performance effectively.