bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Next‐generation sequencing of the intrahepatic antibody repertoire delineates a unique B‐cell response in HBV‐associated acute liver failure
Authors: Chen Zhaochun , Shen Chen‐Hsiang , Engle Ronald E. , Zamboni Fausto , Kwong Peter D. , Purcell Robert H. , Farci Patrizia
Published: March 2020

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of acute liver failure (ALF) worldwide. While liver damage in classic acute hepatitis B is believed to be T‐cell mediated, the pathogenesis of HBV‐associated ALF remains largely unknown. Access to liver specimens from well‐characterized patients with HBV‐associated ALF provided us with the opportunity to perform next‐generation sequencing (NGS) of the entire VH repertoires of IgM and IgG from the livers of four ALF patients, a control liver donor and a patient with chronic HBV infection. We found that ALF is not associated with expansion of specific B‐cell lineages. However, NGS showed that the intrahepatic VH repertoires from ALF patients were characterized by the abundant presence of antibodies in germline configuration in contrast to their marginal prevalence in controls. Moreover, NGS identified a large number of VH genes in germline configuration with identical VDJ sequences in the IgM and IgG repertoires in all four ALF patients, indicating that isotype switch from IgM to IgG had occurred without somatic hypermutation. The results of this study indicate that the presence of intrahepatic antibodies in unmutated germline configuration is a broad phenomenon in the global antibody repertoire generated from total RNA derived from whole‐liver tissue that is strongly associated with ALF, suggesting a major role of T cell–independent humoral immunity in the pathogenesis of ALF.
Structural variability and its relation to edaphic attributes of mangroves in the south‐west coast of India
Authors: Sreelekshmi Suseela , Joseph Philomina , Varghese Rani , Preethy Chakkalakkal M. , Bijoy Nandan Sivasankaran
Published: March 2020

We estimated the tree structural variables (density, frequency and basal area) of true mangroves and soil variables like particle size distribution, carbon, available nitrogen and phosphorus, sulphur, nutrient cations (K, Na, Ca, Mg) of Cochin mangroves and examined the relationship between vegetation and environment. The study sites were classified as seaward fringe, riverine and interior. Of the thirteen true mangrove species present, Avicennia officinalis, Sonneratia caseolaris and Excoecaria agallocha showed higher Importance Value Index. The mean stem density varied from 80 to 25,000 no./ha and basal area from 0.1 to 39.68 m2/ha. Seaward mangroves showed maximum stand basal area and biomass production while riverine exhibited maximum density. Maturity Index value of Cochin mangroves revealed a very low degree of structural maturity. Interior mangroves were characterized by silty soil with higher nutrient concentrations. Principal component analysis of soil data revealed that the major factors influencing mangrove vegetation were soil texture, nutrients, salinity and oxidation–reduction potential. The stem density and basal area of different species correlated highly with soil nutrients and texture (p < .001) while salinity showed negative correlations with vegetation characteristics. The data generated in the study would be fundamental in site‐specific management and conservation efforts of these degrading mangroves.
Housing Accords and Special Housing Areas Act 2013 and the erosion of democracy
Authors: McLeay Colin
Published: March 2020

The Housing Accords and Special Housing Areas Act 2013 (HASHAA) was passed under urgency to deal with housing affordability and land supply challenges across New Zealand. Representing a particular response at a particular point in time, the HASHAA was introduced under urgency and included provisions that allowed the Crown to override (housing) decisions of local authorities. Using post‐political theory in the analysis of evidence collected from transcripts from New Zealand Parliamentary Debates (Hansard), this paper exposes how processes and provisions of the HASHAA were an erosion of democracy.
Short‐term outcomes associated with inpatient ventricular tachycardia catheter ablation
Authors: Sharma Purnima , Tripathi Byomesh , Naraparaju Vamsidhar , Patel Mayur , Bhagat Abhishek , Yerasi Charan , Kumar Varun , Aujla Parvir , Singh Gagandeep , Lahewala Sopan , Arora Shilpkumar , Deshmukh Abhishek , Tolat Aneesh
Published: March 2020

Background

Utilization of catheter ablation of ventricular tachycardia (VT) has steadily increased in recent years. Exploring short‐term outcomes is vital in health care planning and resource allocation.

Methods

The Nationwide Readmissions Database from 2010 to 2014 was queried using the ICD‐9 codes for VT (427.1) and catheter ablation (37.34) to identify study population. Incidence, causes of 30‐day readmission, in‐hospital complications as well as predictors of 30‐day readmissions, complications, and cost of care were analyzed.

Results

Among 11 725 patients who survived to discharge after index admission for VT ablation, 1911 (16.3%) were readmitted within 30 days. Paroxysmal VT was the most common cause of 30‐day readmission (39.51%). Dyslipidemia, chronic kidney disease (CKD), previous CABG, congestive heart failure (CHF), chronic pulmonary disease, and anemia predicted increased risk of 30‐day readmissions. The overall in‐hospital complication rate was 8.2% with vascular and cardiac complications being the most common. Co‐existing CKD and CHF and the need for mechanical circulatory support (MCS) predicted higher complication rates. Similarly increasing age, CKD, CHF, anemia, in‐hospital use of MCS or left heart catheterization, teaching hospital, and disposition to nursing facilities predicted higher cost.

Conclusion

Approximately one in six patients was readmitted after VT ablation, with paroxysmal VT being the most common cause of the readmission. A complication rate of 8.2% was noted. We also identified a predictive model for increased risk of readmission, complication, and factors influencing the cost of care that can be utilized to improve the outcomes related to VT ablation.
Teen pregnancy in Chicago: Who is at risk?
Authors: Cygan Heide R. , McNaughton Diane , Reising Virginia , Fogg Louis , Marshall Booker , Simon Jeremiah
Published: March 2020

Background

Teenage pregnancy, with its associated health and social consequences for young people and society as a whole, is one of the nation's most important public health issues. The purpose of this study was to use Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) data describe self‐reported, pregnancy experiences in 9–12th grade Chicago Public Schools (CPS) students and identify teens at highest risk based on gender, grade‐level, race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation.

Methods

Secondary data analysis of the 2017 CPS high school Youth Risk Behavior Survey was conducted.

Results

The survey response rate was 73% (n = 1,883). 4.9% (n = 91) of CPS students in grades 9 – 12 reported a pregnancy experience, and 1.9% (n = 34) reported being “unsure” of a pregnancy experience. Statistically significant differences in the likelihood of self‐reporting a pregnancy experience were found based on grade level (p = .000), race (p = .023), and sexual orientation (p = .000).

Conclusion

While risk for a teen pregnancy experience varies across all groups, public health nurses can use YRBS data to better understand pregnancy risk in the populations they serve and can leverage core competencies, and robust community relationships to adapt, implement and evaluate evidence‐based teen pregnancy prevention programs for maximum impact on teens at greatest risk.
Shortcut Method for Pipe Expansion Loop Sizing
Authors: Jaćimović Nikola , Ivošević Miloš
Published: March 2020

In the engineering practice, it is often necessary to define supporting scheme and expansion loop requirements for piping distribution systems in very early phases of a project. While placing pipe supports is a relatively easy and straightforward task, providing accurate loop locations and dimensions for hot piping systems can often be challenging. In the early phases of any project, it is impractical, costly and time consuming to perform detailed stress analysis of a piping system to provide expansion loop dimensions, and therefore approximate methods are often used. Comprehensive overview of these existing procedures most commonly used in the engineering practice is given in this article. However, the fact is that most of the existing methods are based on the inconvenient charts and tables with scarce background data. Procedure proposed in this article is based on over 150 expansion loop models and provides a simple and accurate analytical method to size and verify piping loops. Two fully worked examples show the simplicity and accuracy of the proposed model and its advantages over the methods typically used in the engineering practice.
Ultrasensitive and rapid quantification of rare tumorigenic stem cells in hPSC-derived cardiomyocyte populations
Authors: Wang Zongjie , Gagliardi Mark , Mohamadi Reza M. , Ahmed Sharif U. , Labib Mahmoud , Zhang Libing , Popescu Sandra , Zhou Yuxiao , Sargent Edward H. , Keller Gordon M. , Kelley Shana O.
Published: March 2020

Rare tumorigenic stem cells identified in hPSC-derived cardiomyocytes using stem cell quantitative cytometry.
Two different epigenetic information channels in wild three-spined sticklebacks are involved in salinity adaptation
Authors: Heckwolf Melanie J. , Meyer Britta S. , Häsler Robert , Höppner Marc P. , Eizaguirre Christophe , Reusch Thorsten B. H.
Published: March 2020

Detection of both inducible and stable DNA methylation indicates two different epigenetic modes of salinity adaptation.
Oxidative Catabolism of (+)-Pinoresinol Is Initiated by an Unusual Flavocytochrome Encoded by Translationally Coupled Genes within a Cluster of (+)-Pinoresinol-Coinduced Genes in
Pseudomonas
sp. Strain SG-MS2
Authors: Shettigar Madhura , Balotra Sahil , Kasprzak Annette , Pearce Stephen L. , Lacey Michael J. , Taylor Matthew C. , Liu Jian-Wei , Cahill David , Oakeshott John G. , Pandey Gunjan
Published: March 2020

(+)-Pinoresinol is an important plant defense compound, a major food lignan for humans and some other animals, and the model compound used to study degradation of the β-β′ linkages in lignin. We report a gene cluster, in one strain each of
Pseudomonas
and
Burkholderia
, that is involved in the oxidative catabolism of (+)-pinoresinol. The flavoprotein component of the α-hydroxylase which heads the pathway belongs to the 4-phenol oxidizing (4PO) subgroup of the vanillyl alcohol oxidase/
p
-cresol methyl hydroxylase (VAO/PCMH) enzyme family but constitutes a novel combination of cofactor and electron acceptor properties for the family. It is translationally coupled with a cytochrome gene whose product is also required for activity. The work casts new light on the biology of (+)-pinoresinol and its transformation to other bioactive molecules. Potential applications of the findings include new options for deconstructing lignin into useful chemicals and the generation of new phytoestrogenic enterolactones from lignans.
Putative Horizontally Acquired Genes, Highly Transcribed duringYersinia pestisFlea Infection, Are Induced by Hyperosmotic Stress and Function in Aromatic Amino Acid Metabolism
Authors: Martínez-Chavarría Luary C. , Sagawa Janelle , Irons Jessica , Hinz Angela K. , Lemon Athena , Graça Telmo , Downs Diana M. , Vadyvaloo Viveka
Published: March 2020

While alternating between insects and mammals during its life cycle,Yersinia pestis, the flea-transmitted bacterium that causes plague, regulates its gene expression appropriately to adapt to these two physiologically disparate host environments. In fleas competent to transmitY. pestis, low-GC-content genesy3555,y3551,andy3550are highly transcribed, suggesting that these genes have a highly prioritized role in flea infection. Here, we demonstrate thaty3555,y3551,andy3550are transcribed as part of a single polycistronic mRNA comprising they3555, y3554, y3553,y355x, y3551, andy3550genes. Additionally,y355x-y3551-y3550compose another operon, whiley3550can be also transcribed as a monocistronic mRNA. The expression of these genes is induced by hyperosmotic salinity stress, which serves as an explicit environmental stimulus that initiates transcriptional activity from the predictedy3550promoter. Y3555 has homology to pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP)-dependent aromatic aminotransferases, while Y3550 and Y3551 are homologous to the Rid protein superfamily (YjgF/YER057c/UK114) members that forestall damage caused by reactive intermediates formed during PLP-dependent enzymatic activity. We demonstrate thaty3551specifically encodes an archetypal RidA protein with 2-aminoacrylate deaminase activity but Y3550 lacks Rid deaminase function. Heterologous expression ofy3555generates a critical aspartate requirement in aSalmonella entericaaspCmutant, while itsin vitroexpression, and specifically its heterologous coexpression withy3550,enhances the growth rate of anEscherichia coliΔaspCΔtyrBmutant in a defined minimal amino acid-supplemented medium. Our data suggest that they3555, y3551, andy3550genes operate cooperatively to optimize aromatic amino acid metabolism and are induced under conditions of hyperosmotic salinity stress.

IMPORTANCEDistinct gene repertoires are expressed duringY. pestisinfection of its flea and mammalian hosts. The functions of many of these genes remain predicted or unknown, necessitating their characterization, as this may provide a better understanding ofY. pestisspecialized biological adaptations to the discrete environments of its two hosts. This study provides functional context to adjacently clustered horizontally acquired genes predominantly expressed in the flea host by deciphering their fundamental processes with regard to (i) transcriptional organization, (ii) transcription activation signals, and (iii) biochemical function. Our data support a role for these genes in osmoadaptation and aromatic amino acid metabolism, highlighting these as preferential processes by whichY. pestisgene expression is modulated during flea infection.
Detection of Bovine Antibodies against a Conserved Capsid Epitope as the Basis of a Novel Universal Serological Test for Foot-and-Mouth Disease
Authors: Asfor A. S. , Howe N. , Grazioli S. , Berryman S. , Parekh K. , Wilsden G. , Ludi A. , King D. P. , Parida S. , Brocchi E. , Tuthill T. J.
Published: March 2020

Diagnostic tests for foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) include the detection of antibodies against either the viral nonstructural proteins or the capsid. The detection of antibodies against the structural proteins (SP) of the capsid can be used to monitor seroconversion in both infected and vaccinated animals. However, SP tests need to be tailored to the individual FMD virus (FMDV) serotype and their sensitivity may be affected by antigenic variability within each serotype and mismatching between test reagents.
Intradialytic parenteral nutrition improves nutritional status in a complex cystic fibrosis patient with redo double lung transplant and end-stage renal disease
Authors: Melville Tahlia , Vardy Katie , Milliner Lucy , Angus Rebecca
Published: March 2020

This case study reports on the use of intradialytic parenteral nutrition (IDPN) to address severe malnutrition in a 38-year-old woman, redo double lung transplant recipient with a complex medical history including cystic fibrosis and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on haemodialysis. Gastroparesis and severe postprandial abdominal pain limited oral/enteral nutrition input. The addition of IDPN resulted in a dry weight increase of 13.6% over a 12-month period and an improvement in the patient’s malnutrition status from severe (Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG SGA) C24) to moderate (PG SGA B7). The patient stated she would recommend IDPN to others in a similar situation. Management of patients with coexisting cystic fibrosis and ESRD with or without haemodialysis requires patient engagement in treatment planning and a multidisciplinary team approach for clinical judgement in the absence of guidelines. As advances in medical care see more patients with these coexisting conditions, IDPN may provide an increasingly useful adjunct therapy.
Rare case of dual gastrointestinal perforations
Authors: Hudson David , Foo Jonathan , Robertson Jason
Published: March 2020

A 49-year-old man presented to the nearest emergency department profoundly septic with significantly raised inflammatory markers. He had a background of floor of mouth invasive squamous cell carcinoma for which he underwent complex head and neck surgery followed by adjuvant radiotherapy and insertion of a percutaneous gastrostomy tube for feeding. He experienced 3 weeks of retching, cough and malaise. Imaging revealed both an oesophageal perforation and perforated duodenal ulcer, presumed secondary to oesophageal stricturing from his prior surgery and radiotherapy.
Towards universal health coverage: lessons from 10 years of healthcare reform in China
Authors: Tao Wenjuan , Zeng Zhi , Dang Haixia , Lu Bingqing , Chuong Linh , Yue Dahai , Wen Jin , Zhao Rui , Li Weimin , Kominski Gerald F
Published: March 2020

Universal health coverage (UHC) is driving the global health agenda. Many countries have embarked on national policy reforms towards this goal, including China. In 2009, the Chinese government launched a new round of healthcare reform towards UHC, aiming to provide universal coverage of basic healthcare by the end of 2020. The year of 2019 marks the 10th anniversary of China’s most recent healthcare reform. Sharing China’s experience is especially timely for other countries pursuing reforms to achieve UHC. This study describes the social, economic and health context in China, and then reviews the overall progress of healthcare reform (1949 to present), with a focus on the most recent (2009) round of healthcare reform. The study comprehensively analyses key reform initiatives and major achievements according to four aspects: health insurance system, drug supply and security system, medical service system and public health service system. Lessons learnt from China may have important implications for other nations, including continued political support, increased health financing and a strong primary healthcare system as basis.
Antiretroviral drug class and anaemia risk in the current treatment era among people living with HIV in the USA: a clinical cohort study
Authors: Harding Barbara N , Whitney Bridget M , Nance Robin M , Crane Heidi M , Burkholder Greer , Moore Richard D , Mathews W Christopher , Eron Joseph J , Hunt Peter W , Volberding Paul , Rodriguez Benigno , Mayer Kenneth , Saag Michael S , Kitahata Mari M , Heckbert Susan R , Delaney Joseph A C
Published: March 2020

Objective

Anaemia is common among people living with HIV (PLWH) and has been associated with certain, often older, antiretroviral medications. Information on current antiretroviral therapy (ART) and anaemia is limited. The objective was to compare the associations between anaemia incidence or haemoglobin change with core ART classes in the current ART era.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

USA-based prospective clinical cohort of PLWH aged 18 and above receiving care at eight sites between January 2010 and March 2018.

Participants

16 505 PLWH were included in this study.

Main outcome measures

Anaemia risk and haemoglobin change were estimated among PLWH for person-time on a protease inhibitor (PI) or an integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)-based regimen, relative to a non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI)-based reference. We also examined PLWH on regimens containing multiple core classes. Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were conducted to measure the associations between time-updated ART classes and incident anaemia or severe anaemia. Linear mixed effects models were used to examine the relationships between ART classes and haemoglobin change.

Results

During a median of 4.9 years of follow-up, 1040 developed anaemia and 488 developed severe anaemia. Compared with NNRTI use, INSTI-based regimens were associated with an increased risk of anaemia (adjusted HR (aHR) 1.26, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.58) and severe anaemia (aHR 1.51, 95% CI 1.07 to 2.11) and a decrease in haemoglobin level. Time on multiple core classes was also associated with increased anaemia risk (aHR 1.39, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.70), while no associations were found for PI use.

Conclusion

These findings suggest INSTI use may increase the risk of anaemia. If confirmed, screening for anaemia development in users of INSTIs may be beneficial. Further research into the underlying mechanisms is warranted.
Short-term associations between ambient air pollution and stroke hospitalisations: time-series study in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Guo Yanfang , Xie Xiufang , Lei Lin , Zhou Haibin , Deng Shizhou , Xu Ying , Liu Zheng , Bao Junzhe , Peng Ji , Huang Cunrui
Published: March 2020

Objective

To investigate the association between ambient air pollution and stroke morbidity in different subgroups and seasons.

Methods

We performed a time-series analysis based on generalised linear models to study the short-term exposure–response relationships between air pollution and stroke hospitalisations, and conducted subgroup analyses to identify possible sensitive populations.

Results

For every 10 µg/m3increase in the concentration of air pollutants, across lag 0–3 days, the relative risk of stroke hospitalisation was 1.029 (95% CI 1.013 to 1.045) for PM2.5, 1.054 (95% CI 1.031 to 1.077) for NO2and 1.012 (95% CI 1.002 to 1.022) for O3. Subgroup analyses showed that statistically significant associations were found in both men and women, middle-aged and older populations, and both cerebral infarction and intracerebral haemorrhage. The seasonal analyses showed that statistically significant associations were found only in the winter.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that short-term exposure to PM2.5, NO2and O3may induce stroke morbidity, and the government should take actions to mitigate air pollution and protect sensitive populations.
Minocycline for the treatment of mental health and neurological conditions: study protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Bortolasci Chiara C , Marx Wolfgang , Walker Adam J , Hasebe Kyoko , Kavanagh Bianca E , Morris Margaret J , Mohebbi Mohammadreza , Turner Alyna , Gray Laura , Berk Lesley , Walder Ken , Berk Michael , Dean Olivia M
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Due to the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties of minocycline, clinical trials have evaluated the potential of this drug to treat several psychiatric and neurological disorders, including major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, stroke and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. This protocol proposes a systematic review (and potential meta-analysis) that aims to identify and critically evaluate randomised controlled trials of minocycline for treating psychiatric and neurological disorders.

Methods and analysis

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Clinical Trials, PsycINFO and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) will be used to identify randomised controlled trials that used minocycline to treat psychiatric and neurological disorders. Double-blind, randomised, controlled, clinical trials of participants aged 18 years or older and written in English will be included in the review. Data will be extracted by two independent reviewers. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines will be followed and the Cochrane Collaboration’s ‘Risk of Bias’ tool will be used to assess the risk of bias in all studies included in the systematic review. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation system will be used to access the overall quality of the level of evidence of the studies. If sufficient evidence is identified, a meta-analysis will be conducted using the standardised mean difference approach and reported with 95% CIs. Heterogeneity of evidence will be evaluated using the I2model.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review will evaluate only published data; therefore, ethical approval is not required. The systematic review will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at relevant research conferences.

Trial registration number

CRD42020153292.
‘Killing badgers to control bTB is unethical’
Authors: Simmons Alick
Published: March 2020

Alick Simmons argues that badger culling as a means to control bovine TB cannot be justified if considered using an established ethical framework.
Peter Chew
Authors: Chew Katherine , Jones Ronald
Published: March 2020

A small animal practitioner with an entrepreneurial spark and a range of interests.
Evaluating fire management effectiveness with a burn probability model in Daxing’anling, China
Authors: Tian Xiaorui , Cui Wenbin , Shu Lifu
Published: March 2020

Fire is an important disturbance agent in the boreal forests of China. The aggressive fire suppression policy of China since 1988 has resulted in a large financial investment in support of fire brigade capabilities and the maintenance of fire management infrastructure. We developed a spatially explicit burn probability (BP) model to evaluate the effectiveness of improved fire management in Daxing’anling, China. The BP model can emulate the burn probability of the forest landscape by simulating daily wildfire occurrences, spread, and suppression for simulated years. Two scenarios were used for fire simulations in this study. The base scenario used the infrastructure data and parameters of fire suppression capability from the 1968–1987 period, and the intensive scenario used the data and parameters from the 1988–2012 period. The simulated annual burned areas for 1968–2012 showed a fluctuating trend similar to the historical fire records. Compared with the base scenario, the burn probability decreased by 73.6% under the intensive scenario, which suggests that improved fire management could significantly reduce the burn probability. This study shows that the BP model can model the effects of fire management activities on the forest landscape level and evaluate the effectiveness of fire management strategies or management measures.
Karyotype mosaicism in early generation synthetic hexaploid wheats
Authors: Luo Jiangtao , Zhao Laibin , Zheng Jianmin , Li Yazhou , Zhang Lianquan , Liu Dengcai , Pu Zongjun , Hao Ming
Published: March 2020

It is known that both the number and the structure of somatic chromosomes can vary in early generation hexaploid wheats. The phenomenon is generally assumed to arise as a result of the meiotic instability characteristic of freshly created allopolyploids. Here, an analysis of the somatic karyotype of a set of 33 early generation synthetic hexaploid wheats has revealed that variation, taking the form of sub-chromosomal fragments and inter-chromosomal translocations, can also arise in somatic tissue. A possible explanation for the observations was that karyotypic instability in early generation hexaploid wheat probably occurs not just during sporogenesis, but also in somatic tissue. However, other factors such as the use of nitrous oxide during the experiments could also cause the chromosome variations, and additional experimentation would be required to determine the most likely.
THE COMPARISON OF VENOUS SEQUENTIAL AND NORMAL GRAFT PATENCY BASED ON HEMODYNAMICS
Authors: MAO BOYAN , ZHAO ZHOU , LI BAO , FENG YUE , FENG YILI , LIU YOUJUN
Published: March 2020

Background: In coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), the patency of venous sequential graft remains controversial. Hemodynamic factors have been proved to be the important factors influencing graft patency. The objective of this study is to compare the patency of sequential grafts and normal grafts by hemodynamic environment. Methods: This study used a patient’s clinical data to construct a 0D/3D coupled multi-scale model, and used this model to calculate graft’s hemodynamics under two grafting methods. Meanwhile, CABG ideal models were constructed based on grafts’ flow data of 60 patients (63 normal grafts, 19 sequential grafts) to calculate grafts’ hemodynamics. Results: Based on the multi-scale model, it was found that the sequential graft flow and time average wall shear stress (TAWSS) were higher than normal graft, which was good for graft patency. But there were a flow separation region, some regions of high oscillatory shear index (OSI) and relative residence time (RRT) in sequential graft, which could lead to intimal hyperplasia. Based on ideal CABG models, it was known that failure rate of sequential and normal grafts were 36.8% and 36.5%, and there were significant differences between them in flow rate, TAWSS and OSI (sequential versus normal: flow rate (ml/min): [Formula: see text] versus [Formula: see text], TAWSS (Pa): [Formula: see text] versus [Formula: see text], OSI: 0.[Formula: see text] versus [Formula: see text]). Conclusion: For saphenous venous graft (SVG), although the normal graft has similar patency with the sequential graft, the hemodynamic mechanism behind it is different. In flow rate and WSS, sequential grafts have an advantage over normal grafts. But there are high OSI and RRT regions in sequential grafts.
Immediate effects of muscle energy technique and stabilization exercise in patients with chronic low back pain with suspected facet joint origin: A pilot study
Authors: Wahyuddin Wahyuddin , Vongsirinavarat Mantana , Mekhora Keerin , Bovonsunthonchai Sunee , Adisaipoapun Rachaneewan
Published: March 2020

Background: Facet joint is a potential structure to be the source of chronic low back pain (LBP) affecting lumbar motion, pain, and disability. Other than the recommended treatment of lumbar stabilization exercise (LSE), several manual procedures including muscle energy technique (MET) are commonly used in physical therapy clinic. However, little evidences of the effects of MET have been reported.

Objective: This study aimed to compare the immediate effects of MET and LSE in patients with chronic LBP with suspected facet joint origin.

Methods: Twenty-one patients with low back pain were recruited and randomly assigned to receive treatment either MET or LSE. The outcomes were kinematic changes, pain intensity, and disability level. Lumbar active range of motion (ROM) of flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, and left and right rotation were evaluated using the three-dimension motion analysis system at baseline and immediately after treatment. Pain intensity was evaluated using visual analogue scale (VAS) at baseline, immediately after, and two days after treatment. Thai version of the modified Oswestry disability questionnaire (ODQ) was utilized at baseline and two days after treatment. The mixed model analysis of variance was used to analyze all outcomes.

Results: The results showed that all outcomes were not different between groups after treatments. Although there were statistically significant improvements after the treatments when collapsing the groups, the minimal clinically important change was found only for pain but not for lumbar movements and disabilities scores.

Conclusion: The effect of MET and LSE alone in single session might not be intensive enough to improve movements and decrease disability in patients with chronic LBP with suspected facet joint origin.
GOOD MONEY AFTER BAD? THE COMPARATIVE EFFICIENCY OF MINORITY DEPOSITORY INSTITUTIONS
Authors: FAIRCHILD GREGORY B. , KIM YOUNG , JUELFS MEGAN E. , BETRU ARON
Published: March 2020

We examine the relative efficiency of a unique set of banks, Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs). MDIs are led by minorities and typically serve minority populations. Given Social Economic Status (SES) skews across racial/ethnic groups in the United States, operation within minority communities appear, prima facie, to be relatively expensive and thus inefficient. We examine the return on assets (ROA) and small business lending efficiency of MDIs when compared to what we categorize as “non-MDI” depositories, ceteris paribus. We also examine these institutions for a period that includes a recent environmental shock, the 2008 financial crisis and the post-recessionary period. Using data from the Reports of Condition and Income (call reports) for a substantial set of FDIC-insured banks in the United States, we apply a data envelopment analysis (DEA) to determine how a set of MDIs perform relative to comparable institutions. Recognizing that MDIs are not homogeneous, we also examine relative efficiency across types of MDIs by racial/ethnic grouping. The results indicate that MDIs are not less efficient systematically and that there are differences across MDI types.
Bilateral multiple gamma returns: Their risks and rewards
Authors: Madan Dilip B. , Schoutens Wim , Wang King
Published: March 2020

The bilateral gamma model for returns is naturally derived from the lognormal model. Maximizing entropy in a random time change delivers the symmetric variance gamma model. The asymmetric variance gamma follows on incorporating skewness. Differential speeds for the upward and downward motions lead to the bilateral gamma. A further generalizations results in the bilateral double gamma model when the speed parameter of the bilateral gamma model is itself taken to be gamma distributed on entropy maximization. A rich five to seven parameter specification of preferences renders possible the extraction of physical densities from option prices. The quality of such extraction is measured by examining the uniformity of the estimated distribution functions evaluated at realized forward returns. The economic value of risky returns is seen to embed three/five risk premia for the bilateral gamma/bilateral double gamma. For the bilateral gamma they are up and down side volatilities compensated in up and down side drifts, and the down side drift compensated in the up side drift. For the bilateral double gamma one adds in addition compensations for skewness. Results reveal a drop in the down side risk premium since the crisis with an increase in the recent period.
Exact cash-account deflator for the G2++ model
Authors: Strati Francesco , Trussoni Luca G.
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we shall propose a Monte Carlo simulation technique applied to a G2++ model: even when the number of simulated paths is small, our technique allows to find a precise simulated deflator. In particular, we shall study the transition law of the discrete random variable :[Formula: see text] in the time span [Formula: see text] conditional on the observation at time [Formula: see text], and we apply it in a recursive way to build the different paths of the simulation. We shall apply the proposed technique to the insurance industry, and in particular to the issue of pricing insurance contracts with embedded options and guarantees.
Algorithm 1003
Authors: Davis Timothy A. , Hager William W. , Kolodziej Scott P. , Yeralan S. Nuri
Published: March 2020

Partitioning graphs is a common and useful operation in many areas, from parallel computing to VLSI design to sparse matrix algorithms. In this article, we introduce Mongoose, a multilevel hybrid graph partitioning algorithm and library. Building on previous work in multilevel partitioning frameworks and combinatoric approaches, we introduce novel stall-reducing and stall-free coarsening strategies, as well as an efficient hybrid algorithm leveraging (1) traditional combinatoric methods and (2) continuous quadratic programming formulations. We demonstrate how this new hybrid algorithm outperforms either strategy in isolation, and we also compare Mongoose to METIS and demonstrate its effectiveness on large and social networking (power law) graphs.
Why is cybersecurity not a human-scale problem anymore?
Authors: Banga Gaurav
Published: March 2020

Examining the structure of the enterprise attack surface in view of the relative ease with which cyberdefenses can be subverted.
Cyber warranties
Authors: Woods Daniel W. , Moore Tyler
Published: March 2020

Risk transfer options offer hope, but little more.
A Software Platform for Adaptive High Order Multistep Methods
Authors: Arévalo Carmen , Jonsson-Glans Erik , Olander Josefine , Soto Monica Selva , Söderlind Gustaf
Published: March 2020

We present a software package, M
odes
, offering
h
-adaptive and
p
-adaptive linear multistep methods for first order initial value problems in ordinary differential equations. The implementation is based on a new parametric, grid-independent representation of multistep methods [Arévalo and Söderlind 2017]. Parameters are supplied for over 60 methods. For nonstiff problems, all maximal order methods (
p
=
k
for explicit and
p
=
k
+1 for implicit methods) are supported. For stiff computation, implicit methods of order
p
=
k
are included.

A collection of step-size controllers based on digital filters is provided, generating smooth step-size sequences offering improved computational stability. Controllers may be selected to match method and problem classes. A new system for automatic order control is also provided for designated families of multistep methods, offering simultaneous
h
- and
p
-adaptivity.

Implemented as a M
atlab
toolbox, the software covers high order computations with linear multistep methods within a unified, generic framework. Computational experiments show that the new software is competitive and offers qualitative improvements. M
odes
is available for downloading and is primarily intended as a platform for developing a new generation of state-of-the-art multistep solvers, as well as for true
ceteris paribus
evaluation of algorithmic components. This also enables
method comparisons
within a single implementation environment.
Attack and System Modeling Applied to IoT, Cloud, and Mobile Ecosystems
Authors: Sequeiros João B. F. , Chimuco Francisco T. , Samaila Musa G. , Freire Mário M. , Inácio Pedro R. M.
Published: March 2020

Over the years, pervasive computing and communication technologies have enabled the emergence of new computing paradigms that have gained importance across a wide spectrum of domains. The three most notable that have witnessed significant advancements and have a solid track record of exponential growth in diverse applications are the Internet of Things (IoT), Cloud, and Mobile Computing. The ubiquity of these paradigms, their expandability, and applicability in different problem spaces have made them invaluable in modern computing solutions. Security becomes a real concern, especially when it comes to the development of applications in these environments, as numerous security issues may arise from potential design flaws. Secure application development across these three technologies can only be achieved when applications and systems are designed and developed with security in mind. This will improve the quality of the solutions and ensure that vulnerabilities are identified. It will also help in defining countermeasures against cyberattacks or mitigate the effects of potential threats to the systems. This article surveys existing approaches, tools, and techniques for attack and system modeling applicable to IoT, Cloud computing, and Mobile Computing. It also evaluates the strengths and limitations of the reviewed approaches and tools, from which it highlights the main existing challenges and open issues in the area.
A Survey on Distributed Machine Learning
Authors: Verbraeken Joost , Wolting Matthijs , Katzy Jonathan , Kloppenburg Jeroen , Verbelen Tim , Rellermeyer Jan S.
Published: March 2020

The demand for artificial intelligence has grown significantly over the past decade, and this growth has been fueled by advances in machine learning techniques and the ability to leverage hardware acceleration. However, to increase the quality of predictions and render machine learning solutions feasible for more complex applications, a substantial amount of training data is required. Although small machine learning models can be trained with modest amounts of data, the input for training larger models such as neural networks grows exponentially with the number of parameters. Since the demand for processing training data has outpaced the increase in computation power of computing machinery, there is a need for distributing the machine learning workload across multiple machines, and turning the centralized into a distributed system. These distributed systems present new challenges: first and foremost, the efficient parallelization of the training process and the creation of a coherent model. This article provides an extensive overview of the current state-of-the-art in the field by outlining the challenges and opportunities of distributed machine learning over conventional (centralized) machine learning, discussing the techniques used for distributed machine learning, and providing an overview of the systems that are available.
Organizing family support services at ACM conferences
Authors: Girouard Audrey , Froehlich Jon E. , Mandryk Regan L. , Hancock Mark
Published: March 2020

Seeking to improve access to conferences and provide support for attendees with children.
The purpose of punctuation
Authors: Yaffe Philip
Published: March 2020

Each "Communication Corner" essay is self-contained; however, they build on each other. For best results, before reading this essay and doing the exercise, go to the first essay "How an Ugly Duckling Became a Swan," then read each succeeding essay.

Language is ever changing as geographic boundaries morph and populations age. So-called grammar rules can often be arbitrary. Good writing sometimes means using punctuation and sometimes not.
Separation Processes to Provide Pure Enantiomers and Plant Ingredients
Authors: Lorenz Heike , Seidel-Morgenstern Andreas
Published: March 2020

Enantiomer separation and the isolation of natural products from plants pose challenging separation problems resulting from the similarity of molecules and the number of compounds present in synthesis or extract mixtures. Furthermore, limited theory is available to predict productivities for possible alternative separation techniques. The application and performance of chromatography- and crystallization-based processes are demonstrated for various case studies devoted to isolating valuable target compounds from complex initial mixtures. In all cases, the first emphasis is set to determine the process-specific phase equilibria to identify feasible process options. For all examples considered, yields and productivities are evaluated and compared for different scenarios. Guidelines to approach and solve similar separation tasks are given.
CORP: Assessing author compliance with data presentation guidelines for manuscript figures
Authors: Keehan Kara Hansell , Gaffney Michelle C. , Zucker Irving H.
Published: March 2020

The present study was undertaken to address the concern that author compliance with American Physiological Society (APS) journal instructions to authors for data presentation in manuscript figures is inadequate. Common instances of noncompliance are omitted molecular weight markers for immunoblots and bar graphs lacking individual data points. The American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology ( AJP-Heart and Circ) editorial team designed a program to assess figure data presentation in submitted manuscripts. The intended outcome was to improve author compliance with APS data presentation guidelines and to improve overall rigor and reproducibility in articles published in AJP-Heart and Circ. The AJP-Heart and Circ team invited 37 peer reviewers to participate in a figure reviewer project (FRp). Over a period of five months, 32 first-revision manuscripts were enrolled in the FRp. Each manuscript was reviewed by the original peer reviewers and an additional figure reviewer (FR). Post-peer review, corresponding authors and FRs were surveyed for insight into their experiences. Of the 32 corresponding authors invited, 20 (63%) responded to the survey. In response to the survey, 100% of respondents stated that peer review was performed in a timely fashion despite the additional FR. When asked whether the FR experience had any effect on how one would present data in manuscript figures in future submissions, 65% of authors and 83% of FRs said yes. In addition, 63% of authors responding agreed that the overall quality of their figures was improved after revising based on FR comments. This exercise resulted in improved compliance with APS data presentation guidelines and changed attitudes among both authors and reviewers as to the need for consistent and clear data presentation in manuscript figures.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The goal of the American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology figure reviewer program was to improve author compliance with existing APS data presentation instructions for manuscript figures. The result was an improvement in compliance with these guidelines. Time from submission to final decision did not significantly increase for papers with the additional figure reviewer, and both figure reviewers and corresponding authors reported positive feedback in post-program surveys.
Guidelines for animal exercise and training protocols for cardiovascular studies
Authors: Poole David C. , Copp Steven W. , Colburn Trenton D. , Craig Jesse C. , Allen David L. , Sturek Michael , O’Leary Donal S. , Zucker Irving H. , Musch Timothy I.
Published: March 2020

Whole body exercise tolerance is the consummate example of integrative physiological function among the metabolic, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. Depending on the animal selected, the energetic demands and flux through the oxygen transport system can increase two orders of magnitude from rest to maximal exercise. Thus, animal models in health and disease present the scientist with flexible, powerful, and, in some instances, purpose-built tools to explore the mechanistic bases for physiological function and help unveil the causes for pathological or age-related exercise intolerance. Elegant experimental designs and analyses of kinetic parameters and steady-state responses permit acute and chronic exercise paradigms to identify therapeutic targets for drug development in disease and also present the opportunity to test the efficacy of pharmacological and behavioral countermeasures during aging, for example. However, for this promise to be fully realized, the correct or optimal animal model must be selected in conjunction with reproducible tests of physiological function (e.g., exercise capacity and maximal oxygen uptake) that can be compared equitably across laboratories, clinics, and other proving grounds. Rigorously controlled animal exercise and training studies constitute the foundation of translational research. This review presents the most commonly selected animal models with guidelines for their use and obtaining reproducible results and, crucially, translates state-of-the-art techniques and procedures developed on humans to those animal models.

Listen to this article’s corresponding podcast at: https://ajpheart.podbean.com/e/guidelines-for-animal-exercise-and-training-protocols/ .