bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Five new eriophyid mite species from Egypt (Acari: Eriophyidae) associated with the weeds of the family Poaceae

Authors: Elhalawany Ashraf S. , Xue Xiao-feng , Amrine Jr James W.
Published: February 2020

Five new eriophyoid mites infesting weeds of the family Poaceae are described and illustrated from Egypt. They are Abacarus stagninis sp. nov. from Echinochloa stagnina (Retz.) P. Beauv., vagrants in grooves between veins on the upper leaf surface, causing discoloration of the leaves; and four new species from genus Aceria (A. echinochloae sp. nov., A. barnyardi sp. nov., and A. stagninis sp. nov.) from E. stagnina and E. crus–galli (L.) Beauv., and Aceria pennisetosa sp. nov., from Pennisetum purpureum Schumach. These species are vagrants underneath inner surface of the leaf sheath around stem and no symptoms were observed. However, A. barnyardi sp. nov. is a vagrant underneath inner surface of the leaf sheath around stem and are endoparasitic inside tissue of leaves causing rusted leaves.
Mumps: an Update on Outbreaks, Vaccine Efficacy, and Genomic Diversity
Authors: Lam Eugene , Rosen Jennifer B. , Zucker Jane R.
Published: February 2020

Mumps is an acute viral infection characterized by inflammation of the parotid and other salivary glands. Persons with mumps are infectious from 2 days before through 5 days after parotitis onset, and transmission is through respiratory droplets. Despite the success of mumps vaccination programs in the United States and parts of Europe, a recent increase in outbreaks of mumps virus infections among fully vaccinated populations has been reported. Although the effectiveness of the mumps virus component of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is suboptimal, a range of contributing factors has led to these outbreaks occurring in high-vaccination-coverage settings, including the intensity of exposure, the possibility of vaccine strain mismatch, delayed implementation of control measures due to the timeliness of reporting, a lack of use of appropriate laboratory tests (such as reverse transcription-PCR), and time since last vaccination.
Combined therapy of photobiomodulation and adipose-derived stem cells synergistically improve healing in an ischemic, infected and delayed healing wound model in rats with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ebrahimpour-Malekshah Roohollah , Amini Abdollah , Zare Fatemeh , Mostafavinia Atarodsadat , Davoody Samin , Deravi Niloofar , Rahmanian Mohammad , Hashemi Seyed Mahmoud , Habibi Malihe , Ghoreishi Seyed Kamran , Chien Sufan , Shafikhani Sasha , Ahmadi Houssein , Bayat Sahar , Bayat Mohammad
Published: February 2020

Objective

We assessed the therapeutic effects of photobiomodulation (PBM) and adipose-derived stem cell (ADS) treatments individually and together on the maturation step of repairing of a delayed healing wound model in rats with type 1 diabetes mellitus (DM1).

Research design and methods

We randomly assigned 24 rats with DM1 to four groups (n=6 per group). Group 1 was the control (placebo) group. In group 2, allograft human ADSs were transplanted. Group 3 was subjected to PBM (wavelength: 890 nm, peak power output: 80 W, pulse frequency: 80 Hz, pulsed duration: 180 ns, duration of exposure for each point: 200 s, power density: 0.001 W/cm2, energy density: 0.2 J/cm2) immediately after surgery, which continued for 6 days per week for 16 days. Group 4 received both the human ADS and PBM. In addition, we inflicted an ischemic, delayed healing, and infected wound simulation in all of the rats. The wounds were infected with methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA).

Results

All three treatment regimens significantly decreased the amount of microbial flora, significantly increased wound strength and significantly modulated inflammatory response and significantly increased angiogenesis on day 16. Microbiological analysis showed that PBM+ADS was significantly better than PBM and ADS alone. In terms of wound closure rate and angiogenesis, PBM+ADS was significantly better than the PBM, ADS and control groups.

Conclusions

Combination therapy of PBM+ADS is more effective that either PBM or ADS in stimulating skin injury repair, and modulating inflammatory response in an MRSA-infected wound model of rats with DM1.
Effectiveness of an audit programme for dyslipidaemia management in a primary care setting in Macau: a quality improvement study
Authors: Wong In , Tse See Fai , Kwok Chau Sha
Published: February 2020

Objective

The objective of this study was to test the effectiveness of an audit programme for dyslipidaemia management in a primary care setting in Macau.

Design

A quality improvement study based on an evaluation of a before-after intervention trial was conducted in 2017–2018. Interventions comprising feedback from an audit, general practitioner (GP) training via interactive workshops and one-on-one case discussions were implemented. The primary outcome measure was the proportion of patients with reasonable management of dyslipidaemia, and the secondary outcome measure was the proportion of patients with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) meeting the target recommended by the Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines.

Setting

This study was conducted at the Sao Lourenco Health Center, one of the health centres in the Macau primary care system; this centre provides primary care services to one-tenth of the residents of Macau.

Participants

All GPs who worked in the Sao Lourenco Health Center participated in the study. We systematically reviewed 100 patient records from each participating physician’s patient list. In total, 1200 and 1100 patient records were reviewed before and after the intervention, respectively.

Results

At baseline, 390 (43.5%) patients were eligible for statin therapy, while 411 (47.7%) patients were eligible for statin therapy in the reaudit group (p=0.08). After intervention, the proportion of patients with reasonable management of dyslipidaemia increased from 83.9% to 88.5% (p=0.005), and the proportion of eligible patients with LDL-C levels meeting the target increased from 55.1% to 65% (p=0.004).

Conclusions

The audits and feedback significantly improved dyslipidaemia management in the Macau primary care setting.
A fit and function analysis of the UK OSPREY body armour system for female users
Authors: Davis James Ian , Lewis E , Ellett J R
Published: February 2020

Introduction

OSPREY personal armour has been issued to UK forces since 2005. From 2015, the VIRTUS personal armour and load carriage system have been progressively replacing OSPREY. In 2016, the ban on women in ground close combat roles throughout the UK’s Armed Forces was lifted. In anticipation of this, work has been ongoing to prepare future ballistic protection programmes for a potential increase in the number of female users.

Method

A human factors questionnaire was provided to 150 female users of OSPREY body armour to complete while on combat operations in Afghanistan. The questionnaire asked the users to rate the comfort of their OSPREY body armour along with their ability to carry out basic tasks. Other background data such as size of body armour worn and bra size were also collected for the analysis.

Results

The female participants reported various types of discomfort when wearing their OSPREY body armour, with 135 instances of discomfort experienced in the hip region, for example. Challenges were reported in the ability to carry out basic movements, with the tasks rated on a Likert scale as difficult or very difficult by between 29% and 59% of participants. In addition, a restriction in ability to access personal equipment worn on the person (including pouches, trouser pockets) was commented on by 39% of participants.

Conclusions

Female users reported challenges relating to the fit and function of OSPREY body armour. The VIRTUS body armour system for UK Armed Forces Personnel has already addressed many of the reported issues with OSPREY. Further optimisation for VIRTUS with regard to female users is planned and includes sizing of ballistic hard plates.
Balloon pulmonary angioplasty for inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: the UK experience
Authors: Hoole Stephen P , Coghlan John G , Cannon John E , Taboada Dolores , Toshner Mark , Sheares Karen , Fletcher Andrew John , Martinez Guillermo , Ruggiero Alessandro , Screaton Nicholas , Jenkins David , Pepke-Zaba Joanna
Published: February 2020

Objective

Inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) managed medically has a poor prognosis. Balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) offers a new treatment for inoperable patients. The national BPA service for the UK opened in October 2015 and we now describe the treatment of our initial patient cohort.

Methods

Thirty consecutive, inoperable, anatomically suitable, symptomatic patients on stable medical therapy for CTEPH were identified and offered BPA. They initially underwent baseline investigations including Cambridge Pulmonary Hypertension Outcome Review (CAMPHOR) quality of life (QoL) questionnaire, cardiopulmonary exercise test, 6 min walk distance (6MWD), transthoracic echocardiography, N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide (NT pro-BNP) and right heart catheterisation. Serial BPA sessions were then performed and after completion, the treatment effect was gauged by comparing the same investigations at 3 months follow-up.

Results

A median of 3 (IQR 1–6) BPA sessions per patient resulted in a significant improvement in functional status (WHO functional class ≥3: 24 vs 4, p<0.0001) and QoL (CAMPHOR symptom score: 8.7±5.4 vs 5.6±6.1, p=0.0005) with reductions in pulmonary pressures (mean pulmonary artery pressure: 44.7±11.0 vs 34.4±8.3 mm Hg, p<0.0001) and resistance (pulmonary vascular resistance: 663±281 vs 436±196 dyn.s.cm-5, p<0.0001). Exercise capacity improved (minute ventilation/carbon dioxide production: 55.3±12.2 vs 45.0±7.8, p=0.03 and 6MWD: 366±107 vs 440±94 m, p<0.0001) and there was reduction in right ventricular (RV) stretch (NT pro-BNP: 442 (IQR 168–1607) vs 202 (IQR 105–447) pg/mL, p<0.0001) and dimensions (mid RV diameter: 4.4±1.0 vs 3.8±0.7 cm, p=0.002). There were no deaths or life-threatening complications and the mild-moderate per-procedure complication rate was 10.5%.

Conclusions

BPA is safe and improves the functional status, QoL, pulmonary haemodynamics and RV dimensions of patients with inoperable CTEPH.
Origin and formation of Metabreccia in the Parkin Offset Dike, Sudbury impact structure, Canada
Authors: Anders D. , Osinski G.R. , Grieve R.A.F. , Pilles E.A. , Pentek A. , Smith D.
Published: February 2020

The 1.85 Ga Sudbury impact structure is considered a remnant of a peak-ring or multi-ring basin with an estimated original diameter of 150 to 200 km. The Offset Dikes are radial and concentric dikes around the Sudbury Igneous Complex (SIC) and are composed of the so-called inclusion-rich Quartz Diorite (IQD) and inclusion-poor Quartz Diorite (QD), and in some Offset Dikes, Metabreccia (MTBX). We carried out a detailed field and analytical investigation of MTBX from the Parkin Offset Dike in the North Range of the Sudbury structure. Our observations suggest that MTBX represents impact breccia that originally formed underneath the Main Mass of the SIC and that was subsequently contact-metamorphosed and entrained during the emplacement of the Parkin Offset Dike. The MTBX bears no resemblance to the QD and IQD in which it is hosted, but it does share many similarities with Footwall Breccia (FWBX), suggesting that the two shared a similar initial origin. A genetic relationship between MTBX and FWBX is also supported by whole rock geochemical analyses.
Application of Aegilops tauschii–Triticum aestivum recombinant inbred lines for grain protein content quantitative trait loci detection and wheat improvement
Authors: Su Yarui , Liao Pingan , Song Danyang , Huang Shiquan , He Jie , Gao Xiaofeng , Li Suoping
Published: February 2020

Grain protein content (GPC) is an important nutritional quality trait of wheat. Aegilops tauschii Coss. is a progenitor of common wheat and has been shown to have high GPC. The objective of this study was to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for GPC using A. tauschii–Triticum aestivum L. recombinant lines. An advanced BC2F6 population (112 lines) containing A. tauschii segments was developed using synthetic octaploid wheat (hexaploid wheat Zhoumai 18 × A. tauschii T093), which displayed significant phenotype variances. Two quality traits, GPC and wet gluten, and four yield-related traits, thousand kernel weight, spikelet number per plant, grain number per spike, and grain weight per spike, were evaluated. The results show that the mean GPCs of these lines were significantly higher than those of Zhoumai 18. Correlation and mapping analyses indicated that quality traits were weakly negatively correlated with yield traits. Furthermore, 16 A. tauschii-derived QTL for GPC were detected in the recombinant inbred lines, and four stable QTL that have no significant negative effects on yield and are located within the same marker interval were detected in both environments. Additionally, high-protein, high-yield lines 150228 and 150368 with stable QTL were obtained, and both can be directly utilised for fine mapping of the GPC genes and molecular marker–assisted selection to achieve synergistic improvement of wheat yield and protein content.
Ammonia emission from manures treated with different rates of urease and nitrification inhibitors
Authors: Lasisi Ahmed A. , Akinremi Olalekan O. , Kumaragamage Darshani
Published: February 2020

Urease inhibitors have been successfully used to reduce ammonia (NH3) emission from urea-based fertilizers. However, studies on its effectiveness with manures have produced inconclusive results. Field and greenhouse studies were conducted to investigate the effectiveness of different rates of urease [N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide; NBPT] with and without nitrification inhibitor (NI) in reducing NH3 emission from surface-applied liquid pig manure (LPM) and solid beef manure (SBM). Ammonia emission was measured with acid-charged discs at seven dates for 28 d. Total NH3 emission (% of applied N) ranged from 4.3% to 8.2% in untreated LPM and 8.2% in untreated SBM. The corresponding NH3 emission was 6.8%–7.4% in LPM treated with NBPT, 5.0%–12.3% in LPM treated with NBPT + NI (double inhibitor; DI), and 6.0%–10.8% in SBM treated with DI. In the field study, NH3 emission was not significantly different between either LPM or SBM treated with and without DI. In the greenhouse, NBPT did not significantly reduce NH3 emission from LPM, whereas DI applied at a lower rate significantly increased NH3 emission from LPM. In conclusion, addition of NBPT to manure did not have any significant environmental benefit, whereas a combination of NBPT and NI increased NH3 emission from manure.
Zero-point energy and photon spin-induced diffraction phenomena
Authors: Widom A. , Swain J. , Srivastava Y. N. , Blasone M. , Vitiello G.
Published: February 2020

A brief review of our previously introduced forward and backward in time formalism for non-relativistic electron diffraction and its relativistic extension to study photons in time and space is presented. The zero-point energy in the Planck black body spectrum emerges naturally once time-symmetric motion — inherent in Maxwell equations — is invoked for photons. A study of two-slit experiments for slits smaller than the wavelength of the photon unravels novel phenomena due to the spin of the photon. Our proposed experiments are within reach of present technology and could be of interest for modern imaging and quantum optics.
Advanced TCAD Simulation and Calibration of Gallium Oxide Vertical Transistor
Authors: Wong Hiu Yung , Tenkeu Armand C. Fossito
Published: February 2020

In this paper, advanced β-Ga2O3 TCAD simulation parameters and methodologies are presented by calibrating simulation setup to vertical junctionless multi-gate transistor experimental data. Through careful calibration, several important β-Ga2O3 device physics are identified. The effects of compensation doping and incomplete ionization of dopants are investigated. Electron Philips unified carrier mobility (PhuMob) model, which can capture the temperature effect, is used. We also show that interfacial traps possibly play no role on the non-ideal sub-threshold slope (SS) and short channel effect is the major cause of SS degradation. The breakdown mechanism of the junctionless Ga2O3 transistor is also discussed and is shown to be limited by channel punch-through in off-state. The calibrated models match experimental Capacitance-Voltage (CV) and Current-Voltage (IV) well and can be used to predict the electrical performance of novel β-Ga2O3 devices.
ANN Architecture Specifications for Modelling of Open-Cell Aluminum under Compression
Authors: Dudzik Marek , Stręk Anna Małgorzata
Published: February 2020

The knowledge on strength properties of porous metals in compression is essential in tailored application design, as well as in elaboration of general material models. In this article, the authors propose specification details of the ANN architecture for adequate modelling of the phenomenon of compressive behaviour of open-cell aluminum. In the presented research, an algorithm was used to build different structures of artificial neural networks (ANNs), which approximated stress-strain relations of an aluminum sponge subjected to compression. Next, the quality of the built approximations was appraised. The mean absolute relative error (MARE), coefficient of determination between outputs and targets R2, root mean square error (RMSE), and mean square error (MSE) were assumed as criterial measures for the assessment of the fitting quality. The studied neural networks (NNs) were two-layer feedforward networks with different numbers of neurons in the hidden layer. A set of experimental stress-strain data from quasistatic uniaxial compression tests of open-cell aluminum of various apparent densities was used as data for training of neural networks. Analysis was performed in two modes: in the first one, all samples were taken for training, and in the second case, one sample was left out during training in order to play the role of external data for testing the trained network later. The taken out samples were maximum and minimum density samples (for extrapolation) and one random from within the density interval. The results showed that good approximation on the engineering level MARE<5% was reached for teaching networks with ≥7 neurons in the hidden layer for the first studied case and with ≥8 neurons for the second. Calculations on external data proved that 8 neurons are enough to actually obtain MARE<10%. Moreover, it was shown that the quality of approximation can be significantly improved to MARE≈7% (tested on external data) if the initial region of the stress-strain relation is modelled by an additional network.
Combining the Fibrinogen/Albumin Ratio and Systemic Inflammation Response Index Predicts Survival in Resectable Gastric Cancer
Authors: Zhang Junbin , Ding Yongfeng , Wang Weibin , Lu Yimin , Wang Haiyong , Wang Haohao , Teng Lisong
Published: February 2020

Aims. Predicting the prognosis of gastric cancer using tumour-node-metastasis (TNM) staging is difficult as patients with the same TNM stage exhibit different prognoses. Methods. This study investigated the prognostic value of the preoperative fibrinogen/albumin ratio (FAR)-systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) score in resectable gastric cancer (rGC). Results. Clinicopathological features of 231 rGC patients were analysed retrospectively. Patients were divided into three groups: FAR-SIRI score 2 (FAR≥0.071 and SIRI≥0.84), 1 (FAR<0.071 and SIRI≥0.84), and 0 (SIRI<0.84). Higher FAR-SIRI scores were associated with larger tumours, poorer differentiation, and advanced TNM stage (P<0.05). Compared to those with FAR-SIRI scores of 0, patients with scores of 2 had poorer overall survival (OS). The FAR-SIRI score was an independent prognostic factor for OS in rGC. Conclusion. The present data demonstrated that FAR-SIRI scores predicted radical gastric cancer surgical outcomes and may serve as a blood marker for identifying high-risk patients.
Determination of Modelling Error Statistics for Cold‐Formed Steel Columns
Authors: Rokade R. P. , Balaji Rao K. , Palani B.
Published: February 2020

In this article, an attempt has been made to estimate the Modelling Error (ME) associated with compression capacity models available in international standards for different failure modes of compression members fabricated from Cold‐Formed Steel (CFS) lipped channel sections. For the first time, a database has been created using test results available in the literature for compression capacities of CFS lipped‐channel sections. The database contains details of 273 numbers of compression member tests which have failed in different failure modes, namely, (i) flexural, torsional, flexural‐torsional, local, and distortion buckling and (ii) failure by yielding. Only those sources, which report all the details, required to compute the capacities using different standards are included in the database. The results of experimental investigations carried out at CSIR‐Structural Engineering Research Centre, Chennai, are also included in this test database. The international codes of practice used in calculation of compression capacities of the database columns considered in this paper are ASCE 10‐15 (2015), AISI S100‐16 (2016), AS/NZS 4600: 2018 (2018), and EN 1993‐1‐3:2006 (2006). The ASCE, AISI, AS/NZS, and EN design standards have different design guidelines with respect to the failure modes, e.g., ASCE 10‐15 (2015) standard provides stringent criteria for maximum width to thickness ratio for stiffened and unstiffened elements. Hence, guidelines for the distortional buckling mode are not provided, whereas the AISI S100‐16 (2016) and AS/NZS 4600: 2018 (2018) standards consider separate guidelines for distortional buckling mode and EN 1993‐1‐3:2006 (2006) standard considers combined local and distortional buckling mode. Further, the sample size for each design standard is varying depending on the design criteria and failure mode. Studies on statistical analysis of ME suggest that the compression capacity predicting models for flexural‐torsional buckling mode are associated with large variation irrespective of the design standard. Similar observations are made for the flexural buckling model as per EN 1993‐1‐3:2006 (2018) standard and distortional buckling models as per AISI S100‐16 (2016) and AS/NZS 4600: 2018 (2018) standards. The compression capacities for test database sections are evaluated by neglecting the partial safety factors available in design standards. The probabilistic analysis to determine statistical characteristics of compression capacity indicates the importance of consideration of ME as a random variable. Hence, the ME results will be useful in code calibration studies and may have potential reference to design practice.
Progressive Freeze Concentration of Coconut Water and Use of Partial Ice Melting Method for Yield Improvement
Authors: Jayawardena J. A. E. C. , Vanniarachchy M. P. G. , Wansapala M. A. J.
Published: February 2020

Coconut water is a highly nutritious liquid food which is a by-product of the desiccated coconut industry. Freeze concentration is the most suitable concentration method for coconut water since the low-temperature operation for concentration does not deteriorate the original quality of coconut water. Suspension freeze concentration (SFC) and progressive freeze concentration (PFC) are the available FC methods, and SFC is a complex and expensive method compared with PFC. PFC is a novel freeze concentration technique to concentrate liquid food by using a simple system. The limitation of PFC is the lower product yield than SFC, and to overcome the problem, the partial ice-melting technique can be used. A simple cylindrical apparatus was used for PFC which consists of a sample vessel, agitator system, and a cooling bath (at −23°C±2°C temperature). The final concentration of the liquid product was directly affected by the apparatus agitator speed and sample vessel dipping speed. PFC agitator speed of 290 rpm and dipping speed of 1.3 cm h-1 were reported as the optimum operating conditions to achieve the highest concentration for the PFC apparatus used in this study. Using optimized agitation speed and dipping speed, coconut water was concentrated up to Brix 8.5° from the initial concentration of Brix 3.5°. PFC coconut water achieved 73.56% of total yield, 2.42 of concentration ratio, 0.7° of ice phase concentration, and 0.08 of effective partition coefficient. The partial melting technique was successfully explored by recovering initial ice fractions with high solute concentrations, and the total yield was improved up to 80%.
Academic Stress and Physical Activity in Adolescents
Authors: Frömel Karel , Šafář Michal , Jakubec Lukáš , Groffik Dorota , Žatka Radim
Published: February 2020

The issue of work‐related mental health needs to be addressed at the school level. The aim of this study was to explore the associations between academic stress (AS) of adolescent boys and girls and their physical activity (PA) during recesses and after school and to propose measures to promote the adoption of lifelong healthy working habits. Adolescents from 16 schools in the Czech Republic and 6 schools in Poland participated in the study (187 boys and 339 girls). Monitoring of PA and cognitive stress was conducted during one school day. We used ActiTrainer accelerometers to monitor PA and physical inactivity. Data on time of PA and self‐reported AS in school lessons were collected using recording sheets. We split the participants into two groups: those without a self‐reported stressor and those who indicated one or more stressors. Differences in overall PA during recesses, as well as after‐school PA, between boys with and without AS were not statistically significant for any PA characteristics. We observed similar results for girls. Repeated measures ANOVA confirmed that differences in PA (steps/hour) during recesses following particular lessons between participants with and without AS were not statistically significant in boys or girls (F(4,1612) = 1.83, p = 0.121 , ). It is noteworthy that girls with AS were statistically significantly more likely to meet the 6000 steps after school time recommendation (39%) than girls without AS (18%; p < 0.001). The study did not confirm the assumption that adolescents reporting AS have less PA during recesses or even after school than adolescents without AS. However, the overall low PA of adolescents during recesses and after school highlights the need to compensate for AS by adequate PA. This is especially true for adolescents with recurrent AS in several consecutive lessons.
Tissue Engineering Approaches for Enamel, Dentin, and Pulp Regeneration: An Update
Authors: Ahmed Geraldine M. , Abouauf Eman A. , AbuBakr Nermeen , Dörfer Christof E. , El-Sayed Karim Fawzy
Published: February 2020

Stem/progenitor cells are undifferentiated cells characterized by their exclusive ability for self-renewal and multilineage differentiation potential. In recent years, researchers and investigations explored the prospect of employing stem/progenitor cell therapy in regenerative medicine, especially stem/progenitor cells originating from the oral tissues. In this context, the regeneration of the lost dental tissues including enamel, dentin, and the dental pulp are pivotal targets for stem/progenitor cell therapy. The present review elaborates on the different sources of stem/progenitor cells and their potential clinical applications to regenerate enamel, dentin, and the dental pulpal tissues.
Knowledge of General Dental Practitioners and Specialists about Emergency Management of Traumatic Dental Injuries in Qassim, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Haj Ali Sanaa N. , Algarawi Somaya A. , Alrubaian Atheer M. , Alasqah Asma I.
Published: February 2020

Context. Studies about knowledge of emergency management of traumatic dental injuries (TDIs) which affect children by general dental practitioners (GDPs) and specialists in Saudi Arabia are lacking. Aim. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the knowledge level of GDPs and specialists about TDI emergency management and its relation with demographic variables in Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods. A random sample of 239 GDPs and specialists was given a two-part questionnaire; the first part included demographic questions and the second part included questions related to knowledge of emergency management of luxation (intrusion and extrusion), complicated crown fracture, and avulsion injuries. Data was statistically analyzed using chi-square and ordinal logistic regression tests. The significance was set at P<0.05. Results. The mean knowledge score was 5.57 for GDPs and 6.69 for specialists (out of 12). A significant difference was observed between both groups in the management of avulsion injury. Three factors significantly improved the dentists’ knowledge: gender (female), practice type (specialist), and previous experience of encountered TDIs (P<0.05). Conclusions. GDPs and specialists in Qassim region had moderate knowledge of emergency management of TDIs. Specialists were significantly more knowledgeable than GDPs in the management of avulsion injury when compared to the rest of the injuries.
Methods Research and Software Development for Parameters Formalization of the Assignment Task Applicable to the Target Distribution
Authors: Beloglazov Denis Aleksandrovich , Finaev Valery Ivanovich , Soloviev Victor Vladimirovich , Pavlenko Elena Nikolaevna
Published: February 2020

The paper discusses the solution of the assignment task between two groups of mobile (MR) objects. The assignment task is to determine the purpose of MR to each other when playing football. This article analyzes well-known works devoted to the tasks of assignments, and the relevance of research in this area is noted. The task of target distribution is successfully solved with a small degree of uncertainty. The urgency of further research to solve the problem of target distribution in conditions of uncertainty is substantiated. The model of target assignment is considered. The basis of the model is a bipartite graph. The vertices of a bipartite graph are defined by the properties of MR. One group of MR is assigned red color and the other one group is blue. The properties of the mobile objects are formally determined by the membership grades given by the experts. Identification of a bipartite graph is a solution to the assignment problem. When the problem of target distribution on a bipartite graph is solved, the criterion of the maximum degree of bipartite is applied. Formulas are given to determine the degree of bipartite, taking into account the number of vertices in the graph and the weight of each edge in two fractions of the graph. The study of the target distribution model was carried out by the simulation method. A program is developed to solve the problem of assignments. Properties and degrees of belonging of properties of red and blue MR are set for carrying out researches. The program allows you to produce research and under equality of red and blue MR, and under their inequality. The analysis of modeling results is carried out.
A Hypothetical Vascular Stent with Locally Enlarged Segment and the Hemodynamic Evaluation
Authors: Niu Yudi , Sun Anqiang , Wang Zixuan , Yao Chenghong , Song Juxingsi
Published: February 2020

Among the interventional stenting methods for treating coronary bifurcation lesions, the conventional treatments still have disadvantages, which include increased intervention difficulties or inadequate supply of blood flow to side branches and may alter the physiological function of downstream organs. Thus, the optimized design of stent geometry needs to be improved based on the specific shape of branches to minimize the complications of inadequate blood flow to the downstream organs and tissues. Our research used 3D modeling and fluid dynamics simulation to design and evaluate a new stent with locally enlarged segment by altering the proportion and length of enlarged surface area based on Bernoulli’s equation. The aim is to increase the pressure and blood flow supply at side branches. According to series of blood flow simulations, the stent with 10% enlargement of surface area and length of 3 folders of stent diameter was assigned as the optimized design. The results revealed that by using this design, according to the simulation results, the average pressure on side branches increased at the rate of 43.6%, which would contribute to the adequate blood supply to the downstream organs. Besides, the average wall shear stress (WSS) at sidewalls increased at 9.2% while the average WSS on the host artery wall decreased at 14.1%. There is in the absent of noticeable rise in the total area of low WSS that blows the threshold of 0.5 Pa. Therefore, the present study provides a new method to optimize the hemodynamics features of stent for bifurcation arteries.
Distal Fibular Reconstruction Using Iliac Grafting and Emslie-Vidal’s Ligamentoplasty after Exeresis of Single Renal Carcinoma Metastasis
Authors: Maury E. , Granier C. , Sleth C. , Peraut E. , Maury P.
Published: February 2020

Introduction. Restoring lateral ankle stability following distal resection of the fibula is a difficult procedure for which several surgical techniques have been proposed. Each of these techniques has potential drawbacks. This report presents a new option for fibular reconstruction. Case Study. We report the case of a 68-year-old male with evolving pain in the left ankle throughout the past 3 months. Three years prior to consultation, he underwent left nephrectomy for clear-cell adenocarcinoma. A swelling on the external side of the left ankle was noticed upon clinical examination, with no signs of inflammation. The ankle was stable with normal mobility. Radiographic examination revealed a 4 cm lytic lesion on the lateral malleolus with internal and external cortical damages as well as invasion of the soft tissues. Neither lower peroneotibial nor tibiotarsial joints were invaded. Needle biopsy confirmed the presence of metastatic renal clear-cell adenocarcinoma. Consequently, large exeresis of this single metastasis was indicated while preserving functional integrity of the ankle. Following block resection of the distal fibula including the lower tibioperoneal joint, a bicortical autograft was positioned to abut against the external side of the talus. Emslie-Vidal’s ligamentoplasty procedure was performed with half of the short peroneal passed under the pedal flexor, then in the bone abutment, and finally through a calcaneal bone tunnel. Peroneus muscles were stabilized using a fragment sampled from the Achilles tendon. Pain decreased in 3 months, and the ankle was stable with normal functionality at a 5-year follow-up. Discussion. Reconstruction of the lateral ankle following fibular resection is possible by reconstructing the external facet of the malleolus using an autograft associated with Emslie-Vidal’s ligamentoplasty procedure, hence stabilizing both tibiotalar and subtalar joints. This surgical procedure allowed the patient to return to his daily activities with neither instability nor evolution towards short-term tibiotalar arthrosis.
Calcinosis Cutis Associated with Chronic Sclerodermoid Graft versus Host Disease: A Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Deen Jacqueline , Byrom Lisa , Robertson Ivan
Published: February 2020

We present a rare case of calcinosis cutis associated with chronic sclerodermoid graft versus host disease in a 59-year-old male, 13 years following allogenic bone marrow transplantation. The etiology of calcification was thought to be dystrophic. Further research is needed to understand the link between calcinosis cutis and chronic sclerodermoid graft versus host disease to assist with selecting appropriate management for these patients.
Long Noncoding RNA MRPL23-AS1 Promotes Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Lung Metastasis
Authors: Chen Chu-Wen , Fu Min , Du Zhi-Hao , Zhao Fei , Yang Wen-Wen , Xu Li-Hua , Li Sheng-Lin , Ge Xi-Yuan
Published: February 2020

Lung metastasis is a major factor affecting long-term survival in patients with adenoid cystic carcinoma. Here, we showed that the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) MRPL23 antisense RNA 1 (MRPL23-AS1) was highly expressed and correlated with lung metastasis and overall survival in patients with salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC). MRPL23-AS1 positively regulated epithelial–mesenchymal transition by forming an RNA–protein complex with enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2). MRPL23-AS1 increased the binding of EZH2 and H3K27me3 on the E-cadherin promoter region. Moreover, MRPL23-AS1 levels were higher in exosomes isolated from the blood plasma of patients with SACC, and exosomal MRPL23-AS1 affected pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells in an “exosomecrine” manner. MRPL23-AS1–enriched exosomes increased microvascular permeability and facilitated the metastasis of SACC in vivo. Collectively, these findings highlight a molecular mechanism of lung metastasis in SACC. MRPL23-AS1 may represent a biomarker and target for clinical intervention to control this intractable disease.

Significance:

This study identifies a novel metastasis-promoting lncRNA MRPL23-AS1, which mediates the transcriptional silencing of E-cadherin through forming an RNA–protein complex with EZH2.
Inactivation of NF1 Promotes Resistance to EGFR Inhibition in KRAS/NRAS/BRAFV600-Wild-Type Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Georgiou Alexandros , Stewart Adam , Cunningham David , Banerji Udai , Whittaker Steven R.
Published: February 2020

Through the use of an unbiased, genome-scale CRISPR modifier screen, we identified NF1 suppression as a mechanism of resistance to EGFR inhibition in NRAS/KRAS/BRAFV600-wild-type colorectal cancer cells. Reduced NF1 expression permitted sustained signaling through the MAPK pathway to promote cell proliferation in the presence of EGFR inhibition. Targeting of MEK in combination with EGFR inhibition leads to synergistic antiproliferative activity. Human KRAS/NRAS/BRAFV600-wild-type colorectal cancer cell lines with NF1 mutations displayed reduced NF1 mRNA or protein expression and were resistant to EGFR blockade by gefitinib or cetuximab. Cooccurring loss-of-function mutations in PTEN were associated with resistance to dual EGFR/MEK inhibition but cotreatment with a PI3K inhibitor further suppressed proliferation. Loss of NF1 may be a useful biomarker to identify patients that are less likely to benefit from single-agent anti-EGFR therapy in colorectal cancer and may direct potential combination strategies.

Implications:

This study suggests that further clinical validation of NF1 status as predictor of response to anti-EGFR targeting antibodies in patients with colorectal cancer with KRAS/NRAS/BRAFV600-wild-type tumors is warranted.
The Impact of Endourological Experience on Flexible Ureteroscopy Outcomes and Performance at Different Levels of Expertise: Retrospective Multifactorial Analysis
Authors: Ozimek Tomasz , Kramer Mario W. , Hupe Marie C. , Laturnus Jan M. , Struck Julian P. , Hennig Martin J.P. , Merseburger Axel S. , Cordes Jens
Published: February 2020

Introduction: The aim of this study was to analyze the influence of residents’ participation in flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) on intra- and postoperative outcomes. Materials and Methods: Intra- and postoperative parameters were compared in a retrospective monocentric setting between 3 groups: “resident group” (47 cases) for surgeries performed by experienced residents alone, “consultant group” (245 cases) for surgeries performed by consultants alone, “resident plus consultant group” (124 cases) for training surgeries between September 2013 and June 2017. Results: Patients operated by residents alone had a significantly smaller median kidney stone diameter (5.0 vs. 7.0 mm for “consultant group” and 6.0 mm for “resident plus consultant group,” p = 0.011), shorter operating time (median 47.0 vs. 63.0 and 77.0 min, p < 0.001) and fluoroscopy time (median 39.0 vs. 69.5 and 89.0 s, p < 0.001), as well as shorter postoperative hospital stay (p = 0.013). The laser application rate was the smallest in the “resident group” (10.64 vs. 31.43 and 29.84%, p = 0.009). Univariate analysis revealed no relevant differences regarding flexible ureteroscope defect rate, postoperative stone-free rate, or ≥2 Clavien-Dindo classification complications between the groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: A proper case selection of less complicated cases, especially without laser application, could balance the experience deficit of the residents. fURS can be incorporated as a part of residents’ training without an impact on fURS device defect rate or clinical outcomes.
Parotidectomy via Individualized Mini-Blair Incision
Authors: Khafif Avi , Niddal Assadi , Azoulay Ofer , Holostenco Victoria , Masalha Muhamed
Published: February 2020

Background: The modified Blair incision is the standard facial incision for the vast majority of parotid gland lesions. We utilize three types of incisions: “classic mini-Blair” for parotid body tumors, “cervical mini-Blair” for parotid tail tumors, and “vertical mini-Blair” for anterior parotid tumors. In this study, we describe the surgical and esthetic outcomes of these individually tailored incisions. Methods: Patients undergoing parotidectomy between 2011 and 2013 were included. The surgical outcomes and patients’ satisfaction were assessed. Results: Of 122 patients, 89 were included. All patients completed a questionnaire assessing the postoperative course and patients’ satisfaction regarding the surgery in general and the scar in particular. Among these patients, 78 (87%) had a benign pathology and 11 (13%) had malignant tumors. The tumors were located at the parotid body in 57 patients (64%), at the parotid tail in 19 (21%), at the deep lobe in 8 (9%), and at the anterior parotid gland in 5 (6%). All tumors were removed successfully with negative margins on pathology. No inadvertent permanent facial nerve paralysis occurred. The median operation time was 72 min (23–211). The average patient scores of satisfaction with the surgical scar and with the surgery were 9.54 and 9.72, respectively. Conclusions: Individualized mini-Blair incision is feasible for benign as well as selected malignant parotid tumors.
Novel Expression of GABAA Receptors on Resistance Arteries That Modulate Myogenic Tone
Authors: Yim Peter D. , Gallos George , Lee-Kong Steven A. , Dan William , Wu Amy D. , Xu Dingbang , Berkowitz Dan E. , Emala Charles W.
Published: February 2020

The clinical administration of GABAergic medications leads to hypotension which has classically been attributed to the modulation of neuronal activity in the central and peripheral nervous systems. However, certain types of peripheral smooth muscle cells have been shown to express GABAA receptors, which modulate smooth muscle tone, by the activation of these chloride channels on smooth muscle cell plasma membranes. Limited prior studies demonstrate that non-human large-caliber capacitance blood vessels mounted on a wire myograph are responsive to GABAA ligands. We questioned whether GABAA receptors are expressed in human resistance arteries and whether they modulate myogenic tone. We demonstrate the novel expression of GABAA subunits on vascular smooth muscle from small-caliber human omental and mouse tail resistance arteries. We show that GABAA receptors modulate both plasma membrane potential and calcium responses in primary cultured cells from human resistance arteries. Lastly, we demonstrate functional physiologic modulation of myogenic tone via GABAA receptor activation in human and mouse arteries. Together, these studies demonstrate a previously unrecognized role for GABAA receptors in the modulation of myogenic tone in mouse and human resistance arteries.
Spinal Cord Stimulation with Surgical Lead Improves Pain and Gait in Parkinson’s Disease after a Dislocation of Percutaneous Lead: A Case Report
Authors: Lai Yijie , Pan Yixin , Wang Linbin , Zhang Chencheng , Sun Bomin , Li Dianyou
Published: February 2020

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is receiving increasing interests for treating pain and gait disorders in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). In an SCS study, it is hard to apply a double-blind approach, especially at low frequencies, as the stimulation normally induces paresthesia which can be perceived by the patient. We herein demonstrate a case treated with SCS in which a blinding design was accomplished by an accidental dislocation of a stimulation lead. A 73-year-old man with PD was admitted to our hospital because of relapsed low back pain. This was due to the dislocation of a previously implanted SCS lead, which caused a decrease in its effectiveness in alleviating pain (from 81 to 43% measured by King’s Parkinson’s Disease Pain Scale) and improving gait (from 35 to 28% measured by the timed up and go test). A second SCS surgery using a paddle lead solved this problem, with improvements in pain and gait rebounded to 81 and 45%. In this case, the paresthesia induced by SCS (using either a paddle lead or percutaneous leads) was below the threshold of perception when the patient was sitting and standing, and a dislocation of one previously implanted percutaneous lead did not cause evident changes in his sensation of paresthesia. At last follow-up, the patient’s quality of life had improved by 40% as measured by the 8-item Parkinson’s Disease questionnaire (PDQ-8). This study could serve partly as a proof that low-frequency SCS is effective in improving pain as well as gait problems in PD patients, which was unlikely a result of a placebo effect.
High Serum OX40 and OX40 Ligand (OX40L) Levels Correlate with Reduced Survival in Patients with Advanced Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kashima Jumpei , Okuma Yusuke , Hosomi Yukio , Hishima Tsunekazu
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Interaction of OX40 and OX40 ligand (OX40L) is associated with immune activation. OX40-OX40L axis is also suggested to play a role in immunity against several solid malignancies. Objective: In this study, serum OX40 and OX40L levels in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma were assessed and their correlation with survival and clinicopathologic parameters was determined. Methods: Serum samples were collected from patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma, then OX40 and OX40L were quantified via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis of OX40 and OX40L in resected primary lesions was also performed. The association between OX40 and OX40L levels and clinicopathologic status and patient survival was retrospectively analyzed. Results: A total of 56 patients were analyzed. Median serum OX40 and OX40L levels were 156.2 pg/mL and 186.6 pg/mL, respectively. IHC analysis in 5 patients indicated high positivity of OX40 in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and of OX40L in tumor cells in mucinous adenocarcinoma. Patients with a high OX40 level (≥152.2 pg/mL) had poorer prognosis than those with a low serum OX40 level (median survival, 7.36 vs. 21.19 months, respectively, p = 0.04). Patients with a high OX40L level (≥207.3 pg/mL) had poorer prognosis than those with a low serum OX40L level (median survival, 7.36 vs. 14.26 months, respectively, p = 0.04). In the subset of patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) (n = 12), those with a high OX40L level were found to have longer survival from ICI initiation than those with a low OX40L level (p = 0.023). Conclusions: High OX40 and OX40L levels are associated with poor prognosis and may reflect the immune-exhausted status against lung adenocarcinoma.