bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Results of the feasibility phase of the managed activity graded exercise in teenagers and pre-adolescents (MAGENTA) randomised controlled trial of treatments for chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis
Authors: Brigden Amberly , Beasant Lucy , Gaunt Daisy , Hollingworth William , Mills Nicola , Solomon-Moore Emma , Jago Russell , Metcalfe Chris , Garfield Kirsty , Wray Charlotte , Trist Adam , Vilenchik Victoria , Grayson Caroline , Crawley Esther
Published: December 2019

Background

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) is relatively common in young people and causes significant disability. Graded exercise therapy (GET) and activity management are recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) despite a limited evidence-base for either treatment in paediatric CFS/ME. This paper reports on feasibility and acceptability measures from the feasibility phase of the ongoing MAGENTA randomised controlled trial (RCT) investigating GET versus activity management for young people with CFS/ME.

Methods

Setting: Three specialist secondary care National Health Service (NHS) Paediatric CFS/ME services (Bath, Cambridge and Newcastle).

Participants: Young people aged 8–17 years with a diagnosis of mild to moderate CFS/ME. Young people were excluded if they were severely affected, referred to cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) at initial assessment or unable to attend clinical sessions.

Interventions: GET and activity management delivered by physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurses and psychologists. Families and clinicians decided the number (typically 8–12) and frequency of appointments (typically every 2–6 weeks).

Outcome Measures: Recruitment and follow-up statistics. We used integrated qualitative methodology to explore the feasibility and acceptability of the trial processes and the interventions.

Results

80/161 (49.7%) of eligible young people were recruited at two sites between September 2015 and August 2016, indicating recruitment to the trial was feasible. Most recruitment (78/80; 97.5%) took place at one centre. Recruitment consultations, online consent and interventions were acceptable, with less than 10% in each arm discontinuing trial treatment. Response rate to the primary outcome (the SF36-PFS at 6 months) was 91.4%. Recruitment, treatment and data collection were not feasible at one centre. The site was withdrawn from the study.

In response to data collected, we optimised trial processes including using Skype for recruitment discussions; adapting recruiter training to improve recruitment discussions; amending the accelerometer information leaflets; shortening the resource use questionnaires; and offering interventions via Skype. These amendments have been incorporated into the full trial protocol.

Conclusions

Conducting an RCT investigating GET versus activity management is feasible and acceptable for young people with CFS/ME.

Trial registration

ISRCTN23962803 10.1186/ISRCTN23962803, date of registration: 03 September 2015
Correction to: Radiofrequency wire ‘power wire’ recanalization of calcified chronically occluded inferior vena cava
Authors: Salaskar Abhijit , Ferra Michael , Narayanan Harish , Sood Rishi , Scher Daniel , Chun Albert , Venbrux Anthony , Sarin Shawn
Published: December 2019

‘In the published article (Salaskar et al. 2018) the statement under the subheading ‘Consent for publication’ is incorrect.
Effect of households’ dietary knowledge on local (ofada) rice consumption in southwest Nigeria
Authors: Ogunleke A. O. , Baiyegunhi Lloyd J. S.
Published: December 2019

An understanding of dietary knowledge will most likely inform the consumption of healthy foods. Studies have shown that local (ofada) rice is superior to other rice brands in terms of protein and minerals crucial for overall mental and physical well-being. This study, therefore, examined the effect of households’ dietary knowledge on the consumption of local (ofada) rice, using a simultaneous equation system that accommodates censored dependent variable and continuous endogenous dietary knowledge. The study used survey data from 600 rice consumers’ households in southwest Nigeria and hypothesized that dietary knowledge affects the consumption of local (ofada) rice. The results revealed that dietary knowledge is significantly influenced by factors such as being a household meal planner and presence of household member(s) on a special diet. Dietary knowledge, as hypothesized, was found to positively influence the consumption of local (ofada) rice, as were some sociodemographic variables. The study recommends that effective dietary education about health and other benefits of consuming local (ofada) rice should be developed to promote its consumption in Nigerians’ diets.
GDF15 Is Elevated in Conditions of Glucocorticoid Deficiency and Is Modulated by Glucocorticoid Replacement
Authors: Melvin Audrey , Chantzichristos Dimitrios , Kyle Catriona J , Mackenzie Scott D , Walker Brian R , Johannsson Gudmundur , Stimson Roland H , O’Rahilly Stephen
Published: December 2019

Context

GDF15 is a stress-induced hormone acting in the hindbrain that activates neural circuitry involved in establishing aversive responses and reducing food intake and body weight in animal models. Anorexia, weight loss, nausea and vomiting are common manifestations of glucocorticoid deficiency, and we hypothesized that glucocorticoid deficiency may be associated with elevated levels of GDF15.

Objective

To determine the impact of primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) and glucocorticoid replacement on circulating GDF15 levels.

Methods and Results

We measured circulating concentrations of GDF15 in a cohort of healthy volunteers and Addison’s disease patients following steroid withdrawal. Significantly higher GDF15 (mean ± standard deviation [SD]) was observed in the Addison’s cohort, 739.1 ± 225.8 pg/mL compared to healthy controls, 497.9 ± 167.7 pg/mL (P = 0.01). The effect of hydrocortisone replacement on GDF15 was assessed in 3 independent PAI cohorts with classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia or Addison’s disease; intravenous hydrocortisone replacement reduced GDF15 in all groups. We examined the response of GDF15 to increasing doses of glucocorticoid replacement in healthy volunteers with pharmacologically mediated cortisol deficiency. A dose-dependent difference in GDF15 (mean ± SD) was observed between the groups with values of 491.0 ± 157.7 pg/mL, 427.0 ± 152.1 pg/mL and 360 ± 143.1 pg/mL, in the low, medium and high glucocorticoid replacement groups, respectively, P < .0001.

Conclusions

GDF15 is increased in states of glucocorticoid deficiency and restored by glucocorticoid replacement. Given the site of action of GDF15 in the hindbrain and its effects on appetite, further study is required to determine the effect of GDF15 in mediating the anorexia and nausea that is a common feature of glucocorticoid deficiency.
Hospitalization Patterns for Inpatient Pediatric Surgery and Procedures in California: 2000–2016
Authors: Muffly Matthew K. , Honkanen Anita , Scheinker David , Wang Tammy Nai-Yen , Saynina Olga , Singleton Mark A. , Wang C. Jason , Sanders Lee
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND:

We report hospitalization patterns from 2000 to 2016 for young children (ages 0–5 years old) in California who underwent 1 of the 20 most common inpatient procedures that required general anesthesia and evaluate the estimated probability of treatment at a tertiary care children’s hospital (CH) by year.

METHODS:

We hypothesized that children ≤5 years old increasingly undergo care at tertiary care CHs for common inpatient surgeries or other procedures that require general anesthesia. Data from the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development dataset were used to determine procedure, patient age, year of procedure, and hospital name. Hospitals were designated as either tertiary care CHs, children’s units within general hospitals (CUGHs), or general hospitals (GHs) based on the California Children’s Services Provider List. A tertiary care CH was defined using the California Children’s Services definition as a referral hospital that provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary, regionalized pediatric care to children from birth up to 21 years of age with a full range of medical and surgical care for severely ill children. We report the unadjusted percentage of patients treated at each hospital type and, after controlling for patient covariates and comorbidities, the estimated probability of undergoing care at a tertiary care CH from 2000 to 2016.

RESULTS:

There were 172,318 treatment episodes from 2000 to 2016. The estimated probability of undergoing care at a tertiary care CH increased from 63.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 62.4%–64.4%) in 2000 to 78.3% (95% CI, 77.3%–79.4%) in 2016.

CONCLUSIONS:

Children ≤5 years old undergoing common inpatient procedures that require general anesthesia increasingly receive care at tertiary care CHs in California.
Use of Coagulation Point-of-Care Tests in the Management of Anticoagulation and Bleeding in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bianchi Paolo , Beccaris Camilla , Norbert Martina , Dunlop Bradley , Ranucci Marco
Published: December 2019

Bleeding and coagulation management are essential aspects in the management of neonates and children undergoing cardiac surgery. The use of point-of-care tests (POCTs) in a pediatric setting is not as widely used as in the adult setting. This systematic review aims to summarize the evidence showed by the literature regarding the use of POCTs in children undergoing cardiac surgery. We included all studies examining the pediatric population (<18 years old) undergoing cardiac surgery in which the coagulation profile was assessed with POCTs. Three electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Controlled Clinical Trials register) were searched. Tests involved were heparin effect tests, viscoelastic tests, and platelet function tests. Due to the wide heterogeneity of the patients and tests studied, a formal meta-analysis was impossible, and the results are therefore presented through a systematic review. Eighty articles were found, of which 47 are presented in this review. At present, literature data are too weak to define POCTs as a “gold standard” for the treatment of perioperative bleeding in pediatric cardiac surgery. Nevertheless, introduction of POCTs into postoperative algorithms has shown to improve bleeding management, patient outcome, and cost efficiency.
Renal Morbidity of 6% Hydroxyethyl Starch 130/0.4 in 9000 Propensity Score Matched Pairs of Surgical Patients
Authors: Miyao Hideki , Kotake Yoshifumi
Published: December 2019

BACKGROUND:

Several studies of critically ill patients reported that fluid resuscitation with hydroxyethyl starch (HES) solutions damages the kidneys, but their use for surgical patients is debated. Because different HES preparations have different safety profiles, we sought to determine whether 6% third-generation HES 130/0.4 was associated with renal morbidity when used for surgical patients.

METHODS:

We identified adults enrolled in a Japanese nationwide medical database who underwent surgery between 2014 and 2016, with HES 130/0.4 or without it (controls). These groups were balanced with propensity score matching in a 1:1 ratio without replacement by multivariable logistic regression with 36 covariates, including demographic characteristics, preoperative comorbidities, and anesthetic/surgical procedures. The primary outcome was the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients receiving intraoperative HES and controls. Secondary outcomes were assessing whether HES was associated with worsening AKI stage, the incidence of renal-replacement therapy (RRT), hospital length-of-stay, and in-hospital 30-day mortality. Tertiary outcomes include the use of vasoactive agents and the fluid requirement on the day of surgery. Comparative analysis was made with χ2, Mann-Whitney U test, or the ordinal logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS:

Of 76,048 patients in the database, 58,425 were eligible: 9542 received HES and 48,883 controls. Propensity score matching identified 8823 matched pairs. The incidence of AKI was 6.2% (548/8823) in the HES group and 5.6% (492/8823) in controls (odds ratio [OR], 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.99–1.27; P = .07). Compared to controls, HES was not associated with worsening AKI stage (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.79–1.01; P = .08). The incidence of RRT was lower in the HES group than that in controls (0.2% vs 0.4%, respectively; OR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.29–0.91; P = .02). Median [interquartile range] hospital stay was 1 day longer in the HES group (12 [8–21] vs 11 [7–20] days; P < .001), but in-hospital 30-day mortality did not differ between groups (0.5% vs 0.6%, respectively: OR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.56–1.24; P = .36). The use rate of vasoactive agents and the median net fluid requirement on the day of surgery were higher in the HES group (80.5% vs 70.0%: P < .001, 88.1 vs 73.6 mL/kg; P < .001, respectively) compared to controls.

CONCLUSIONS:

The present study did not demonstrate that 6% HES 130/0.4 increased the incidence and the severity of postoperative AKI. It was associated with a lower incidence of RRT when used for surgical patients.
The resistome and genomic reconnaissance in the age of malaria elimination
Authors: Kümpornsin Krittikorn , Kochakarn Theerarat , Chookajorn Thanat
Published: December 2019

Malaria is an infectious disease caused by parasitic protozoa in the Plasmodium genus. A complete understanding of the biology of these parasites is challenging in view of their need to switch between the vertebrate and insect hosts. The parasites are also capable of becoming highly motile and of remaining dormant for decades, depending on the stage of their life cycle. Malaria elimination efforts have been implemented in several endemic countries, but the parasites have proven to be resilient. One of the major obstacles for malaria elimination is the development of antimalarial drug resistance. Ineffective treatment regimens will fail to remove the circulating parasites and to prevent the local transmission of the disease. Genomic epidemiology of malaria parasites has become a powerful tool to track emerging drug-resistant parasite populations almost in real time. Population-scale genomic data are instrumental in tracking the hidden pockets of Plasmodium in nationwide elimination efforts. However, genomic surveillance data can be useful in determining the threat only when combined with a thorough understanding of the malarial resistome – the genetic repertoires responsible for causing and potentiating drug resistance evolution. Even though long-term selection has been a standard method for drug target identification in laboratories, its implementation in large-scale exploration of the druggable space in Plasmodium falciparum, along with genome-editing technologies, have enabled mapping of the genetic repertoires that drive drug resistance. This Review presents examples of practical use and describes the latest technology to show the power of real-time genomic epidemiology in achieving malaria elimination.
Allometry, condition factor and growth of the swimming blue crab Portunus segnis in the Gulf of Gabes, Southeastern Tunisia (Central Mediterranean)
Authors: BEN ABDALLAH-BEN HADJ HAMIDA OLFA , BEN HADJ HAMIDA NADER , CHAOUCH HOUDA , MISSAOUI HECHMI
Published: December 2019

The blue swimming crab Portunus segnis (Forskål, 1775) is one of the earliest Lessepsian invaders of the Mediterranean Sea, and is recorded since decades in various areas of the Mediterranean. Its presence in the southeastern Tunisian coasts (Gulf of Gabes) is, however, very recent. Allometry, condition factor and growth of P. segnis were studied along the Gulf of Gabes coasts. Sampling was performed by artisanal fishing gears as well as trawl net during a one-year period (October 2015 to September 2016) as processed 4971 crabs were collected. The crab carapace width (CW) ranged from 45 to 168 mm for males and 50 to 159 mm for females. The crab carapace length (CL) was 22.02-89.20 mm and 38.70-85.28 mm, respectively for males and females. The carapace width-carapace length, carapace width- front, carapace width-carapace height and carapace width-weight relationships were studied in separate sexes of crab. The covariance analysis indicates a significant difference between the two sexes with respect to the carapace width-carapace length and the carapace width-weight relationships. The condition factor ranged between 0.0042 and 0.0118 with a mean of 0.0078. The condition factor decreased with increasing crab size. The Von Bertalanffy growth parameters CW∞, K and t0 were estimated on the basis of Length-frequency modal progression analysis methods. The mean values of L∞ (mm), K (year-1) and t0 would be, respectively, 206.48 mm, 1.34 and -0.130 for males; 183.89 mm, 1.42 and -0.127 for females and, 190.60 mm, 1.02 and -0.177 for combined sexes.
River systems and their water and sediment fluxes towards the marine regions of the Mediterranean Sea and Black Sea earth system. An overview
Authors: POULOS SERAFEIM E
Published: December 2019

A quantitative assessment of the riverine freshwater, suspended and dissolved sediment loads is provided for the watersheds of the four primary (Western Mediterranean-WMED, Central Mediterranean-CMED, Eastern Mediterranean-EMED and Black Sea-BLS) and eleven secondary marine regions of the Mediterranean and Black Sea Earth System (MBES). On the basis of measured values that cover spatially >65% and >84% of MED and BLS watersheds, respectively, water discharge of the MBES reaches annually almost the 1 million km3, with Mediterranean Sea (including the Marmara Sea) to provide 576 km3 and the Black Sea (included the Azov Sea) 418 km3. Among the watersheds of MED primary marine regions, the total water load is distributed as follows: WMED= 180 km3; CMED= 209 km3; and EMED= 187 km3. The MBES could potentially provide annually some 894 106 t of suspended sediment load (SSL), prior to river damming, most of which (i.e., 708 106 t is attributed to MED). Between MED primary marine regions, CMED receives the highest amount of suspended sediment (287 106 t), followed by WMED (239 106 t) and EMED 182 106 t, while 185 106 t are delivered to BLS. The dissolved load (DL) of MBES is about 376 106 t, from which 215 106 t (approximately 57%) is provided by the MED watershed. The large river systems (watershed>104 km2) provide >85% of the water load, >80% of SSL and >60% of DL of both MED and BLS.
Biological aspects of two coexisting native and non-native fish species in the Aegean Sea: Pagellus erythrinus vs. Nemipterus randalli
Authors: YAPICI SERCAN , FİLİZ HALİT
Published: December 2019

Nowadays, the Mediterranean is a hotspot of biodiversity, characterized by changes in fish communities due to invasions. These invasions, mainly occurring through the entrance of species through the Suez Canal, a process called Lessepsian migration, has been increasing in the last 40 years. It is reported that, in Turkish seas, where 512 fish species are found, are 75 Lessepsian species. However, knowledge about the impact of Lessepsian species on native species is insufficient. This study aims to determine the bio-ecological characteristics and food interactions of a native Pagellus erythrinus and non-native Nemipterus randalli distributed in the Gökova Bay.In the monthly sampling survey, carried out between January 2016 and December 2016, 1698 N. randalli and 945 P. erythrinus individuals were collected. Length, weight, age, sex distributions and ratios, length-age, weight-age, length-weight relationships, condition factors, stomach contents and reproduction periods were examined to determine the interaction between species. According to results, the life span of P. erythrinus is longer than N. randalli in the Gökova Bay. Nevertheless, N. randalli grows faster than P. erythrinus. Reproduction periods of both two species show similarities. Food competition between species is found to be significantly high. Results of condition factors exhibit that N. randalli shows an increased ability to exploit the available food sources. Pagellus erythrinus displays strategies such as: early maturation, short reproduction period, reproduction in the deeper waters and batch spawning, to compete with N. randalli. With the invasive characteristics of N. randalli established a successful population in the Gökova Bay.
Non-HDL cholesterol is better than LDL-c at predicting atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk factors clustering, even in subjects with near-to-normal triglycerides: A report from a Venezuelan population
Authors: Bermúdez Valmore , Torres Wheeler , Salazar Juan , Martínez María Sofía , Rojas Edward , Olivar Luis Carlos , Lameda Victor , Ortega Ángel , Ramírez Paola , Rojas Milagros , Rastogi Sheena , D’Addosio Rosanna , Hoedebecke Kyle , Graterol Modesto , Graterol Resemily , Wilches Sandra , de Bravo Mayela Cabrera , Rojas-Quintero Joselyn
Published: December 2019

Background: Non-high density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-c) has emerged as an important tool in primary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), especially among those at high risk. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of non-HDL-c for the coexistence aggregation of multiple ASCVD risk factors and compare this with LDL-c in general subjects with normal or near normal triglycerides from Maracaibo city in Venezuela.

Methods: This is a descriptive, cross-sectional study with a randomized multistage sampling. 2026 subjects were selected for this study, all were adults ≥18 years old of both genders and inhabitants of Maracaibo city, Venezuela. A complete history and physical medical assessment was performed. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to determine the odds ratio (CI95%) for the coexistence of multiple risk factors for ASCVD.

Results: The median (p25-p75) of non-HDL-c was 143 mg/dL (114-174 mg/dL). 52.1% (n=1056) of the sample were women, with a median of 144 mg/dL (115-174 mg/dL) among women and 143 mg/dL (114-17 4mg/dL) among men; p=0.740. Individuals ≥50 years old, smokers, those with hypertension, obesity, diabetes, high waist circumference and elevated hs-C Reactive Protein, all had higher levels of non-HDL-c. A lower median was observed among those <30 years of age with elevated physical activity levels in their leisure time. Non-HDL-c between 130-159 mg/dL (OR=2.44; CI 95%=1.48-4.02; p<0.001) and ≥160 mg/dL (OR=3.28; CI 95%=1.72-6.23; p<0.001) was associated with greater risk of coexistent multiple risk factors for ASCVD, albeit LDL-c was not significant in the multivariate model.

Conclusions: Elevated non-HDL-c was associated with conglomeration of multiple risk factors for ASCVD. This suggests evaluation of non-HDL-c may be of better utility in primary care for early identification of subjects for high risk of ASCVD. Future research might focus on the influence of non-HDL-c in cardiovascular mortality.
Laboratory evaluation of molecular xenomonitoring using mosquito excreta/feces to amplify Plasmodium, Brugia, and Trypanosoma DNA
Authors: Pilotte Nils , Cook Darren A.N. , Pryce Joseph , Zulch Michael F. , Minetti Corrado , Reimer Lisa J. , Williams Steven A.
Published: December 2019

Background: Results from an increasing number of studies suggest that mosquito excreta/feces (E/F) testing has considerable potential to serve as a supplement for traditional molecular xenomonitoring techniques. However, as the catalogue of possible use-cases for this methodology expands, and the list of amenable pathogens grows, a number of fundamental methods-based questions remain. Answering these questions is critical to maximizing the utility of this approach and to facilitating its successful implementation as an effective tool for molecular xenomonitoring.

Methods: Utilizing E/F produced by mosquitoes or tsetse flies experimentally exposed toBrugia malayi,Plasmodium falciparum, orTrypanosoma brucei brucei, factors such as limits of detection, throughput of testing, adaptability to use with competent- and incompetent-vector species, and effects of additional blood feedings post parasite-exposure were evaluated.  Two platforms for the detection of pathogen signal (quantitative real-time PCR and digital PCR [dPCR]) were also compared, with strengths and weaknesses examined for each.      

Results: Experimental results indicated that high throughput testing is possible when evaluating mosquito E/F for the presence of eitherB. malayiorP. falciparumfrom both competent- and incompetent-vector mosquito species.  Furthermore, following exposure to pathogen, providing mosquitoes with a second, uninfected bloodmeal did not expand the temporal window for E/F collection during which pathogen detection was possible.  However, this collection window did appear longer in E/F collected from tsetse flies following exposure toT. b. brucei.  Testing also suggested that dPCR may facilitate detection through its increased sensitivity.  Unfortunately, logistical obstacles will likely make the large-scale use of dPCR impractical for this purpose.

Conclusions: By examining many E/F testing variables, expansion of this technology to a field-ready platform has become increasingly feasible.  However, translation of this methodology from the lab to the field will first require the completion of field-based pilot studies aimed at assessing the efficacy of E/F screening.
CORROSION BEHAVIOUR OF AISI 460LI SUPER-FERRITIC STAINLESS STEEL
Authors: Di Schino Andrea
Published: December 2019

Following nickel and molybdenum significant price increase, nowadays the stainless steel market is moving toward an increasing use of ferritic stainless steel instead of austenitic stainless and therefore to the development of advanced ferritic stainless steels grades aimed to substitute the more expensive austenitic materials in all applications allowing it. Super-ferritic stainless steels are higher chromium (Cr) and molybdenum (Mo) steels  with  properties similar to those of standard ferritic alloys. Such elements increase high temperature and corrosion resistance in strong environment. This paper deal about  the corrosion reistance of super-ferritic stainless steels with a Cr content ranging from 21% to 24%.
Beneficial Role of Soluble Silica in Enhancing Chlorophyll Content in Onion Leaves
Authors: Rangwala Tasneem , Bafna Angurbala , Vyas Nagesh , Gupta Rohan
Published: December 2019

Silicon which is not considered essential element, improves growth and development in onion. The present study was designed to investigate beneficial role of soluble silica in increasing chlorophyll content in onion leaves. Soluble silica under tradename AgriboosterTM was used to alleviate environmental stress. Eight treatments were given at the interval of 15 days after one month of sowing in randomised block design as follows: T1- without fertilizer and soluble silica (Control), T2, T3, T4- foliar spray of soluble silica viz, 7.5, 10 and 12.5 ml/ lit respectively,T5- only fertilizer,T6, T7, T8- fertilizer + foliar spray of soluble silica viz, 7.5, 10 and 12.5 ml/ lit respectively. Chlorophyll a, b and carotenoid content were determined. Malondialdehyde was estimated in leaves to determine level of stress. Malondialdehyde content was found to be significantly higher in control and only fertilizer treated leaves of onion indicating stress in plants which significantly decreased level of chlorophyll a as well as chlorophyll b. This negative effect of stress in chlorophyll content was counteracted by soluble silica. Soluble silica could be used to increase chlorophyll content which will improve photosynthesis.
Moisture Conservation and Nutrient Management Practices on Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea Mays L.)
Authors: Chhetri Binoy , Sinha A.C.
Published: December 2019

Plant nutrients and soil moisture are considered some of the most important factors affecting physiological characters and grain yield of maize. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted at UBKV, Cooch Behar, West Bengal during 2013 and 2014 to study the effects of moisture conservation and nutrient management practices on growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.). The experiment was laid out in a split –plot design with three replications. Four levels of moisture conservation practices M0: without irrigation and without mulch, M1: irrigation as and when required, M2: dry weed biomass mulch @5.0t ha-1 M3: FYM mulch @ 5.0 t ha-1 were assigned to main plots and four levels of nutrient management N1: 100% RDF 80:40:40 kg ha-1 of N:P2O5: K2O N2:100% RDF + phosphate solubilising bacteria (PSB) + Azotobacter N3:75% RDF+ PSB + Azotobacter + vermicompost (VC) @ 5.0 t ha-1 and N4:50% RDF + PSB + Azotobacter + 50% vermicompost @ 2.5t ha-1 for sub plot. Among the moisture conservation practices, application of irrigation recorded the highest growth, yield attributes, yield and harvest index followed by FYM mulch and dry weed bio-mass mulch. Similarly, N, P and K uptake of maize was recorded highest under irrigation followed by FYM mulch; dry weed bio mass mulch and lowest N, P and K uptake were recorded under without irrigation and mulch. Among the nutrient management practices the highest growth, yield attributes, yield, harvest index and N, P & K uptake were recorded under 75% RDF + PSB + Azotobacter + vermicompost @ 5.0 t ha-1 followed by 100% RDF + PSB+ Azotobacter & 100% RDF and lowest were recorded under 50% RDF + PSB + Azotobacter + 50% vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1 . Likewise, maximum benefits were recorded under 75% RDF + PSB+ Azotobacter + vermicompost @ 5.0 t ha-1 and lowest net return and return per rupee invested were recorded under 50% RDF + PSB + Azotobacter + 50% vermicompost 2.5 t ha-1. From this study, maize grown with irrigation and supplied with 75% RDF + PSB + Azotobacter + vermicompost @ 5.0 t ha-1 is found the best for obtaining overall gain on a sustainable basis.
Solutions for implants placed with prosthetic inconvenience
Authors: Bryce Graeme , Diessner Nicholas , Hemmings Ken , MacBeth Neil
Published: December 2019

A prosthetically-driven approach for dental implant placement offers the most predictable means of achieving a biologically stable and aesthetic implant-supported restoration. Optimal dental implant placement may be limited by local factors and complicate the prosthetic reconstruction. This article aims to offer guidance on the surgical and prosthetic options available to manage suboptimally-positioned dental implants.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: This article is relevant to dental clinicians placing and restoring dental implants, and those who are considering them in treatment planning.
Silver diamine fluoride (SDF): its role in caries management
Authors: Crystal Yasmi O
Published: December 2019

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) combines the antibacterial properties of silver and the remineralizing actions of fluoride in an alkaline solution that creates an unfavourable environment for collagen degradation. Clinical trials have proven the efficacy of SDF as a caries-arresting agent in primary teeth and root caries in the elderly. It is minimally invasive, inexpensive, safe and easy to apply, but a sign of arrest is the dark discoloration of the lesions where it is applied. SDF provides clinicians with a valuable additional tool in their armamentarium for caries management that aims to stop the disease process at the tooth surface, when traditional restorative therapy is not the best option, and when aesthetic results are not a concern.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) provides clinicians with an additional valuable option for arresting dental caries as part of a comprehensive caries management plan when traditional restorative therapy is not the best option.
A collaborative approach in dementia care to improve clinical effectiveness and priorities for research through audit
Authors: Kinley Julie , Ellis-Smith Clare , Hurt Michael , McIvor Karen , Evans Catherine J
Published: December 2019

Background:

To provide appropriate cost-effective care for an ageing population, realignment of care provision to conditions common in advanced age, notably, dementia and multi-morbidities is required. The use of outcome measures in practice may enable this.

Aim:

A collaborative baseline audit was undertaken to understand how best to implement outcome measures into services for people with dementia across clinical settings.

Methods:

An academic institution set up a 6-month collaborative baseline audit in 11 English sites. Measures comprised: symptoms/concerns (Integrated Palliative care Outcome Scale for Dementia); Phase of Illness; functional status (Australia-modified Karnofsky Performance Scale); and dementia severity (Functional Assessment Staging).

Findings:

Measures were completed at first assessment for 225 people with dementia across nine sites. Their completion promoted comprehensive assessments, but challenges also existed, including recording the prevalence/severity of non-physical symptoms by proxy.

Conclusions:

The joining together of clinical academic expertise enabled mobilisation of expert knowledge into and from clinical practice.
Creation of a palliative care advanced practice registered nurse peer-review process
Authors: Fedel Patrice R. , Hembel Nicole E. , Mueller Lindsey M.
Published: December 2019

The mark of a true profession is the ability to self-regulate. As such, advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are challenged by their professional organisations to participate in self-evaluation and peer review. Peer review is a method for evaluating the care provided by the APRN to both ensure quality nursing care and promote professional growth. Despite guidelines to participate in a formal peer-review process, there is little information within the nursing profession on how to accomplish peer review. A comprehensive literature review failed to provide a framework for peer review that is practice focused, fosters a learning environment and encompasses the thought process and clinical decision-making of the palliative care advanced practice nurse. A group of palliative care APRNs set out to create a process that encompassed the breadth of clinical decision-making in palliative care advanced nursing practice. Using the eight domains of palliative care, a narrative case review structure was created. The resulting process both assisted the APRNs in professional growth and provided timely feedback for the annual performance evaluation.
Latest clinical research
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: December 2019

Mark Greener rounds up the latest research relevant to primary care nurses
TGV-regularized inversion of the Radon transform for photoacoustic tomography
Authors: Bredies Kristian , Nuster Robert , Watschinger Raphael
Published: December 2019

We propose and study a reconstruction method for photoacoustic tomography (PAT) based on total generalized variation (TGV) regularization for the inversion of the slice-wise 2D-Radon transform in 3D. The latter problem occurs for recently-developed PAT imaging techniques with parallelized integrating ultrasound detection where projection data from various directions is sequentially acquired. As the imaging speed is presently limited to 20 seconds per 3D image, the reconstruction of temporally-resolved 3D sequences of, e.g., one heartbeat or breathing cycle, is very challenging and currently, the presence of motion artifacts in the reconstructions obstructs the applicability for biomedical research. In order to push these techniques forward towards real time, it thus becomes necessary to reconstruct from less measured data such as few-projection data and consequently, to employ sophisticated reconstruction methods in order to avoid typical artifacts. The proposed TGV-regularized Radon inversion is a variational method that is shown to be capable of such artifact-free inversion. It is validated by numerical simulations, compared to filtered back projection (FBP), and performance-tested on real data from phantom as well as in-vivo mouse experiments. The results indicate that a speed-up factor of four is possible without compromising reconstruction quality.
SOFIevaluator: a strategy for the quantitative quality assessment of SOFI data
Authors: Moeyaert Benjamien , Vandenberg Wim , Dedecker Peter
Published: December 2019

Super-resolution fluorescence imaging techniques allow optical imaging of specimens beyond the diffraction limit of light. Super-resolution optical fluctuation imaging (SOFI) relies on computational analysis of stochastic blinking events to obtain a super-resolved image. As with some other super-resolution methods, this strong dependency on computational analysis can make it difficult to gauge how well the resulting images reflect the underlying sample structure. We herein report SOFIevaluator, an unbiased and parameter-free algorithm for calculating a set of metrics that describes the quality of super-resolution fluorescence imaging data for SOFI. We additionally demonstrate how SOFIevaluator can be used to identify fluorescent proteins that perform well for SOFI imaging under different imaging conditions.
Frequency expanded non-interferometric phase retrieval for holographic data storage
Authors: Lin Xiao , Hao Jianying , Wang Kun , Zhang Yuanying , Li Hui , Tan Xiaodi
Published: December 2019

A novel frequency expanded non-interferometric phase retrieval method for holographic data storage is proposed. The limitation of twice Nyquist frequency for phase retrieval with high fidelity is broken through. Only 1 times Nyquist size frequency of the hologram is recorded, reconstructed and detected in our method which is the smallest range for complex multi-level phase retrieval in the current holographic data storage report. Required high-order frequencies for quick phase retrieval are generated artificially by expanding 1 times Nyquist frequency to high-order frequencies with utilizations of frequency periodicity. Therefore, our proposed method can increase storage density due to reducing the recording consumption of media and decreasing the recording area by 4 times compared with twice Nyquist frequency recording.
Holographic near-eye display with continuously expanded eyebox using two-dimensional replication and angular spectrum wrapping
Authors: Choi Myeong-Ho , Ju Yeon-Gyeong , Park Jae-Hyeung
Published: December 2019

Holographic near-eye displays present true three-dimensional images with full monocular depth cues. In this paper, we propose a technique to expand the eyebox of the holographic near-eye displays. The base eyebox of the holographic near-eye displays is determined by the space bandwidth product of a spatial light modulator. The proposed technique replicates and stitches the base eyebox by the combined use of a holographic optical element and high order diffractions of the spatial light modulator, achieving horizontally and vertically expanded eyebox. An angular spectrum wrapping technique is also applied to alleviate image distortions observed at the boundaries between the replicated base eyeboxes.
Real-time 400 Gbps/carrier WDM transmission over 2,000 km of field-installed G.654.E fiber
Authors: Maeda Hideki , Saito Kohei , Sasai Takeo , Hamaoka Fukutaro , Kawahara Hiroki , Seki Takeshi , Kawasaki Takeshi , Kani Junichi
Published: December 2019

We combine erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) and backward distributed Raman amplifier (DRA) to achieve the real-time wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) transmission of 400 Gbps/carrier polarization division multiplexing (PDM) 16 quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) signals over 2,000 km of terrestrial field-deployed cut-off shifted fiber (CSF) compliant with ITU-T G.654.E. This paper compares the transmission performance of 400 Gbps/carrier signals achieved in CSF and standard single-mode fiber (SMF). This transmission distance, 2,019 km, is, to the best of our knowledge, the longest in 400 Gbps/carrier WDM transmission field experiments using digital signal processing (DSP) application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) integrated real-time optical transponders with the technologies to compensate device imperfections; the backward DRA used is fully compliant with laser power safety requirements.
Determining the optimal learning rate in gradient-based electromagnetic optimization using the Shanks transformation in the Lippmann–Schwinger formalism
Authors: Boutami Salim , Zhao Nathan , Fan Shanhui
Published: December 2019

In gradient-based optimization of photonic devices, within the overall design parameter space, one iteratively performs a line search in a one-dimensional subspace as spanned by the search direction. While the search direction can be efficiently determined with the adjoint variable method, there has not been an efficient algorithm that determines the optimal learning rate that controls the distance one moves along the search direction. Here we introduce an efficient algorithm of determining the optimal learning rate, using the Shanks transformation in the Lippmann–Schwinger formalism. Our approach can determine very accurately the optimal learning rates at each epoch, with only a modest increase of computational cost. We show that this approach can significantly improve the figure of merits of the final structure, as compared to conventional methods for estimating the learning rate.
PbS nanoparticles saturable absorber for ultrafast pulse generation in 2-µm fiber laser
Authors: Liu Xinxing , Li Xiaohui , Tang Yulong , Zhang Shuaiyi
Published: December 2019

Owing to its unique electronic and optical properties, lead sulfide (PbS) has stimulated great interest in various areas including ultrafast optics. Here, solution-processed PbS nanoparticles (NPs) deposited on a gold mirror are used as the saturable absorber (SA) to modulate a 2 µm Tm-doped fiber laser for ultrafast pulse generation. The PbS NPs have a broadband linear absorption decreasing from 350–2400 nm, with an absorption coefficient of

>

20

%

at 2 µm. Nonlinear optical absorption of the PbS NPs SA at 2 µm provides a modulation depth of 8.8% and a saturable intensity of

0.8

M
W

/

c
m

2

. A Tm-doped fiber laser mode-locked with the PbS NPs SA gives a maximum pulse energy of 7.3 nJ, pulse width of 4.24 ps, spectral width of 2.5 nm at

∼
1993

n
m

. The damage threshold as high as

24

G
W

/

c
m

2

together with large modulation depth, low saturation intensity, and long-term stability make solution-based PbS NPs excellent candidates as light modulators in the 2 µm spectral region and beyond.
Multiplex Immunofluorescence of Bone Marrow Core Biopsies: Visualizing the Bone Marrow Immune Contexture
Authors: Walters Denise K. , Jelinek Diane F.
Published: December 2019

The ability to visualize and quantify the spatial arrangement and geographic proximity of immune cells with tumor cells provides valuable insight into the complex mechanisms underlying cancer biology and progression. Multiplexing, which involves immunofluorescence labeling and the visualization of multiple epitopes within formalin-fixed paraffin embedded tissue sections, is a methodology that is being increasingly employed. Despite the power of immunofluorescence multiplex analysis, application of this technology to bone marrow core biopsies has not yet been realized. Given our specific long term goal to identify immune cells in proximity to bone marrow malignant plasma cells in multiple myeloma patients, we describe in this study adaptation of multiplex immunofluorescence analysis to this tissue. We first identified a blocking strategy that quenched autofluorescence. We next employed a multiplex strategy that uses a simple stripping solution to remove primary and secondary antibodies prior to subsequent rounds of staining. This method was found to be highly efficient and did not significantly alter antigenicity or tissue integrity. Our studies illustrate for the first time that immunofluorescence multiplexing is achievable in bone marrow core biopsies and will provide a novel opportunity to analyze the role of the immune contexture in disease progression of the monoclonal gammopathies.
Playing to the crowd: The audience’s role in team-operated media
Authors: Mirer Michael
Published: December 2019

Sports leagues and teams have entered the media industry, producing news content about themselves for broad consumption. The content producers behind these stories still largely position themselves as journalists, despite their lack of independence. They do so by engaging in boundary work, a process in which professional authority is won by enlisting other stakeholders in recognizing an occupational group’s jurisdiction over a societal task. While much of the debate over in-house reporting focuses on acceptance within the journalistic community, readers are also an important and underexplored stakeholder. This textual analysis of reader response to in-house coverage of athlete protest suggests that fans may respond to this content in ways that contest the commercial mission of a team website. As such, readers may be drawing their own boundaries in a media system with in-house content producers, and scholars should explore these questions.
‘I want to read it in my hands’: The aesthetic attraction of independent women’s magazines
Authors: Webb Sarah , Fulton Janet
Published: December 2019

There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that independent magazines, also known as ‘independents’, are thriving in Australia’s print media industry. As ‘maverick’ editors, owners and publishers focus more on the design and aesthetic aspects of their publications in response to changing reader expectations, there appears to be a demand for independents among female readers. In particular, young adult female readers are choosing to engage with independent women’s magazines in Australia, placing particular emphasis on the aesthetic reading experience offered by the hard-copy format. To explore this phenomenon, a survey and focus group were conducted among women aged 18–24 years, using Blumler and Katz’s Uses and Gratifications theory as the theoretical framework. The initial survey garnered findings from 300 respondents, while the focus group consisted of six participants. One key aspect of the results is that aesthetics is central to understanding the continued appeal and use of such a medium. Other aspects include quality of content, entertainment, escape, collection and habit, and ease of use. In an age where ‘digital’ is often regarded as the norm, young adult female readers are seeking inspiration and expression from independent women’s magazines.
'Distinctiveness' and programme diversity in public broadcasting revisited: A seven-country comparison
Authors: Hendrickx Jonathan , Raats Tim , Ranaivoson Heritiana , Opgenhaffen Michaël
Published: December 2019

In the past decade, public service broadcasters have been confronted with major shifts affecting their remit, portfolio and financing. Heavily fuelled by cutbacks and increasing competition, discussions on 'distinctiveness' have resurfaced again and stand central in many policy discussions on the legitimacy of public service broadcasting. This article critically contextualizes discussions on distinctiveness within broader scholarly work on genre and genre diversity in public service broadcasting. It presents the findings of a comparative, quantitative study of the programming schedule of seven public broadcasters (Flanders, Finland, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Portugal and the United Kingdom). The article addresses how discussions on distinctiveness tap into broader discussions on genre diversity and the amount of entertainment in public service broadcasting programming, how we can assess and compare the diversity of genre programming across different broadcasters, and to what extent high levels of specific genres such as entertainment can be linked to other performance indicators of the selected public broadcasters. The article provides a consistent comparison of genre outputs, based on an original database made of a large set of countries and a high, representative number of programmes and applies a consistent set of indexes to assess not only the share of entertainment but also the diversity of the programming. The underlying question to this article is to what extent genre is still valuable to measure performance and legitimacy of public service broadcasting, considering difficulties of measuring 'genre' as proxy for public service media's (PSM) effectiveness.