bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The NoHoW protocol: a multicentre 2×2 factorial randomised controlled trial investigating an evidence-based digital toolkit for weight loss maintenance in European adults
Authors: Scott Sarah Ellen , Duarte Cristiana , Encantado Jorge , Evans Elizabeth H , Harjumaa Marja , Heitmann Berit Lilienthal , Horgan Graham W , Larsen Sofus C , Marques Marta Moreira , Mattila Elina , Matos Marcela , Mikkelsen Marie-Louise , Palmeira António L , Pearson Beth , Ramsey Lauren , Sainsbury Kirby , Santos Inês , Sniehotta Falko , Stalker Carol , Teixeira PJ , Stubbs R. James
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Obesity and associated diseases place a severe burden on healthcare systems. Behavioural interventions for weight loss (WL) are successful in the short term but often result in weight regain over time. Self-regulation of eating and activity behaviours may significantly enhance weight loss maintenance (WLM) and may be effectively augmented by contextual behavioural approaches to emotion regulation. The NoHoW trial tests the efficacy of a theoretically informed, evidence-based digital toolkit using a mobile-enabled website, activity trackers and Wi-Fi scales for WLM aiming to target (1) self-regulation and motivation, and (2) emotion regulation in adults who achieved clinically significant (≥5%) WL in the previous 12 months (initial body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2).

Methods and analysis

The study is an 18-month, 3-centre, 2×2 factorial single-blind, randomised controlled trial, which recruited 1627 participants achieving ≥5% WL between March 2017 and March 2018. Participants are randomly allocated to one of four arms: (1) self-monitoring only (self-weighing and activity tracker), (2) self-regulation and motivation, (3) emotion regulation or (4) combined self-regulation, motivation and emotion regulation. Participants attend four clinical investigation days at 0, 6, 12 and 18 months and are instructed to use the digital toolkit for 18 weeks during the first 6 months and at their discretion for the remaining 12 months. The primary outcome is change in weight (kg) at 12 months from baseline. Secondary outcomes are body composition (eg, bioimpedance analysis), health biomarkers (glycated haemoglobin, lipids, blood pressure, hair cortisol), dietary intake, physical activity, sleep, motivational, self-regulatory, emotion regulatory moderators/mediators of WLM, engagement, user experience, acceptability and cost-effectiveness of the interventions.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was granted by Institutional Ethics Committees at the Universities of Leeds (17–0082; 27 February 2017), Lisbon (17/2016; 20 February 2017) and Capital Region of Denmark (H-16030495, 8 March 2017). Results will be published in scientific journals.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN88405328.
Disease burden and cost of hidradenitis suppurativa: a retrospective examination of US administrative claims data
Authors: Marvel Jessica , Vlahiotis Anna , Sainski-Nguyen Amy , Willson Tina , Kimball Alexandra
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) causes substantial morbidity and quality-of-life impairment. We examined demographic/clinical characteristics of patients with HS and treatment patterns, prevalence and healthcare resource utilisation/expenditures related to HS in the real-world.

Design

Retrospective claims data of MarketScan Commercial, Medicare Supplemental and Medicaid databases (2009–2014).

Setting

USA.

Participants

Patients aged ≥12 years with ≥3 non-diagnostic outpatient or inpatient claims with an HS diagnosis code and ≥12 months continuous enrolment with medical and pharmacy benefits before (preindex) and after (postindex) the earliest diagnosis of HS (index) were included.

Results

There were 11 325 Commercial/Medicare patients (mean age 37.4 years) and 5164 Medicaid patients (mean age 28.3 years). HS was more common in Medicaid than Commercial/Medicare patients (0.301% and 0.098%, respectively, in 2014). Cellulitis and psychiatric disorders were the most common comorbidities and oral antibiotics and narcotics were the most frequently prescribed drugs preindex, with ≥10% increase postindex in both populations. HS-related inpatient costs decreased while outpatient costs increased from preindex to postindex. Medicaid patients had several risk factors that may be associated with poor outcomes (eg, high rates of prescription pain medication use, comorbidities, drug discontinuation/interruption/holiday, emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalisation).

Conclusions

Commercial/Medicare and Medicaid HS beneficiaries experience high comorbidity burden but use different treatment modalities to manage HS. Results suggest a substantial unmet need exists among this patient population, with Medicaid patients experiencing a particularly high burden of disease and expensive healthcare resource utilisation.
Neurodevelopmental disorders among term infants exposed to antenatal corticosteroids during pregnancy: a population-based study
Authors: Melamed Nir , Asztalos Elizabeth , Murphy Kellie , Zaltz Arthur , Redelmeier Donald , Shah Baiju R , Barrett Jon
Published: October 2019

Objective

An increasing proportion of fetuses are exposed to antenatal corticosteroids (ACS). Despite their immediate beneficial effects, the long-term safety of ACS has been an ongoing source of concern. In the current study, we assessed the likelihood of neurodevelopmental problems among term infants exposed to ACS earlier in pregnancy compared with non-exposed term infants.

Design

Retrospective cohort study (2006–2011). Median duration of follow-up was 7.8 (IQR 6.4–9.2) years.

Setting

Population-based study, Ontario, Canada.

Participants

All live singleton infants born at term (≥370/7weeks gestation) (n=529 205).

Exposure

ACS during pregnancy.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

A composite of diagnostic or billing codes reflecting proven or suspected neurodevelopmental problems during childhood including audiometry testing, visual testing or physician service claim with a diagnosis code related to a suspected neurocognitive disorder.

Results

At 5 years of age, the cumulative rate for the primary outcome was higher among infants exposed to ACS compared with non-exposed infants: 61.7% (3346/5423) vs 57.8% (302 520/523 782), respectively (p<0.001; number needed to harm (NNH)=25, 95% CI 19 to 38; adjusted HR (aHR) 1.12, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.16). Similar findings were observed for each of the individual components of the primary outcome: 15.3% vs 12.7% for audiometry testing (p<0.001; NNH=39, 95% CI 29 to 63; aHR 1.18, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.25); 45.4% vs 43.5% for visual testing (p=0.006; NNH=54, 95% CI 31 to 200; aHR 1.08, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.12) and 25.8% vs 21.6% for suspected neurocognitive disorder (p<0.001; NNH=24, 95% CI 19 to 33; aHR 1.16, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.21).

Conclusions

We found an association among term infants between exposure to ACS during pregnancy and healthcare utilisation during childhood related to suspected neurocognitive and neurosensory disorders.
Effectiveness and safety of early intramuscular botulinum toxin injections to prevent shoulder deformity in babies with brachial plexus birth injury (POPB-TOX), a randomised controlled trial: study protocol
Authors: Pons Christelle , Eddi Dauphou , Le Gal Gregoire , Garetier Marc , Ben Salem Douraied , Houx Laetitia , Fitoussi Franck , Quintero Nathaly , Brochard Sylvain
Published: October 2019

Introduction

In children with brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI), denervation of the shoulder muscles leads to bony deformity in the first months of life, reducing active and passive range of motion (ROM) and causing activity limitation. The aim of this multicentre randomised controlled trial is to evaluate the effectiveness of botulinum toxin injections (BTI) in the shoulder internal rotator muscles of 12-month-old babies in limiting the progression of posterior subluxation of the glenohumeral joint, compared with a sham procedure mimicking BTI. The secondary aims are to evaluate the effectiveness of BTI in (1) limiting the progression of glenoid retroversion and three-dimensional (3D) deformity and (2) improving shoulder ROM and upper limb function, as well as to confirm the tolerance of BTI.

Methods and analysis

Sixty-two babies with unilateral BPBI and a risk of posterior humeral head subluxation will be included. Only those with at least 7% posterior subluxation of the humeral head compared with the contralateral shoulder on the MRI will be randomised to one of two groups: ‘BTI’ and ‘Sham’. The BTI group will receive BOTOX injections at the age of 12 months in the internal shoulder rotator muscles (8 UI/kg). The sham group will undergo a sham BTI procedure. Both groups will undergo repeated shoulder MRI at 18 months of age to quantify changes in the percentage of posterior migration of the humeral head (primary outcome), glenoid version and 3D bone deformity. Clinical evaluations (passive shoulder ROM, active movement scale) will be carried out at baseline and 15 and 18 months of age. The mini-assisting hand assessment will be rated between 10 and 11 months and at 18 months of age. Adverse events will be recorded at least monthly for each child.

Ethics and dissemination

Full ethical approval for this study has been obtained. The findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed publications.

Trial registration number

EudraCT: 2015-001402-34 in European Clinical Trial database;NCT03198702in Clinical Trial database; Pre-results.
Interprofessional learning in immediate life support training does effect TEAM performance during simulated resuscitation
Authors: Morse Jeremy Charles , Brown Craig William , Morrison Ian , Wood Caroline
Published: October 2019

Aim of the study

To assess performance in a simulated resuscitation after participating in either an interprofessional learning (IPL) or uniprofessional learning (UPL) immediate life support (ILS) training course.

Introduction

The Team Emergency Assessment Measure (TEAM) is routinely used in Resuscitation Council (UK) Advanced Life Support courses. This study used the psychometrically validated tool to assess if the delivery of an IPL ILS to final year medical and nursing students could improve overall behavioural performance and global TEAM score.

Methods

A randomised study of medical (n=48) and nursing (n=48) students, assessing performance in a simulated resuscitation following the IPL or UPL ILS courses. Postcourse completion participants were invited back to undertake a video-recorded simulated-resuscitation scenario. Each of these were reviewed using the TEAM tool, at the time by an experienced advanced life support instructor and subsequently by a clinician, independent to the study and blinded as to which cohort they were reviewing.

Results

Inter-rater reliability was tested using a Bland-Altman plot indicating non-proportional bias between raters. Parametric testing and analysis showed statistically significant higher global overall mean TEAM scores for those who had attended the IPL ILS courses.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that an IPL approach in ILS produced an increased effect on TEAM scores with raters recording a significantly more collaborative team performance. A postscenario questionnaire for students also found a significantly improved experience within the team following the IPL course compared with those completing UPL training. Although this study shows that team behaviour and performance can change and improve in the short-term, we acknowledge further studies are required to assess the long-term effects of IPL interventions. Additionally, through this type of study methodology, other outcomes in regard to resuscitation team performance may be measured, highlighting other potential benefit to patients, at level four of Kirkpatrick’s hierarchy.
Cardiometabolic health in adolescence and its association with educational outcomes
Authors: Correa-Burrows Paulina , Blanco Estela , Gahagan Sheila , Burrows Raquel
Published: October 2019

Aim

To explore the association of selected cardiometabolic biomarkers and metabolic syndrome (MetS) with educational outcomes in adolescents from Chile.

Methods

Of 678 participants, 632 (52% males) met criteria for the study. At 16 years, waist circumference (WC), systolic blood pressure, triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein and glucose were measured. A continuous cardiometabolic risk score (zMetS) using indicators of obesity, lipids, glucose and blood pressure was computed, with lower values denoting a healthier cardiometabolic proﬁle. MetS was diagnosed with the International Diabetes Federation/American Heart Association/National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute joint criteria. Data on high school (HS) graduation, grade point average (GPA), college examination rates and college test scores were collected. Data were analysed controlling for sociodemographic, lifestyle and educational confounders.

Result

zMetS, WC, TG and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance at 16 years were negatively and significantly associated with the odds of completing HS and taking college exams. Notably, for a one-unit increase in zMetS, we found 52% (OR: 0.48, 95% CI 0.227 to 0.98) and 39% (OR: 0.61, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.93) reduction in the odds of HS completion and taking college exams, respectively. The odds of HS completion and taking college exams in participants with MetS were 37% (95% CI 0.14 to 0.98) and 33% (95% CI 0.15 to 0.79) that of participants with no cardiometabolic risk factors. Compared with adolescents with no risk factors, those with MetS had lower GPA (515 vs 461 points; p=0.002; Cohen’sd=0.55). Adolescents having the MetS had significantly lower odds of passing the mathematics exam for college compared with peers with no cardiometabolic risk factors (OR: 0.49; 95% CI 0.16 to 0.95).

Conclusion

In Chilean adolescents, cardiometabolic health was associated with educational outcomes.
DO CIRCUIT BREAKERS IMPEDE TRADING BEHAVIOR? A STUDY IN CHINESE FINANCIAL MARKET
Authors: LI KUN
Published: October 2019

As the most influential regulation in 2016, China launched circuit breakers in the financial markets. However, the circuit breaker mechanism was implemented for only four days and then suspended. Many criticisms then stated that circuit breakers impeded trading behavior in Chinese financial markets. This study explores this short-life circuit breaker mechanism in China, and examines whether circuit breakers impede trading behavior in Chinese financial markets as many criticisms stated. We use an intraday dataset and investigate the circuit breakers. Contrary to those criticisms, we find that circuit breakers are not easily reachable and have no “magnet effect” between two thresholds of breakers. We also find that without protection of circuit breakers, potential large market fluctuations will have negative impacts on individual stocks’ liquidity and value. As the major contribution, our study indicates that Chinese financial markets still need a circuit breaker mechanism to protect investors’ benefits and maintain the market liquidity and stability.
The congruence subgroup problem for a family of branch groups
Authors: Skipper Rachel
Published: October 2019

We construct a family of groups which generalize the Hanoi towers group and study the congruence subgroup problem for the groups in this family. We show that unlike the Hanoi towers group, the groups in this generalization are just infinite and have a trivial rigid kernel. We also put strict bounds on the branch kernel. Additionally, we show that these groups have subgroups of finite index with non-trivial rigid kernel. The only previously known group where this kernel is non-trivial is the Hanoi towers group and so this adds infinitely many new examples. Finally, we show that the topological closures of these groups have Hausdorff dimension arbitrarily close to 1.
A possible connection of the broken power-law between electron- and proton-spectra in cosmic rays
Authors: Liu Peng , Ruan Jianhong
Published: October 2019

Using the gluon condensation (GC) model, we predict a possible connection of the broken power phenomenon between the energy spectra of electron and proton. We find that once the GC occurs, large amount of gluons accumulate near the GC threshold. This phenomenon provides a possible source of the power rule, broken in the energy spectra of cosmic rays, and even predicts the connection between them.
PHOSPHONIC ACID MONOLAYERS FOR CORROSION PROTECTION OF COPPER: EQCM AND EIS INVESTIGATIONS
Authors: YURT AYSEL , SOLMAZ ESRA
Published: October 2019

Preparation, characterization and application of protective phosphonic acid monolayers formed by 1-Aminohexyl phosphonic acid (AHP), 1,4-butanediphosphonic acid (BDPA), 1-amino-1,3-dimethylbutyl phosphonic acid (ADBP) on copper surface as anticorrosive self-assembled molecular monolayers (SAMs) have been investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and in situ electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM) techniques. Film formation and growth were monitored by EQCM and the step-by-step construction of monolayer was investigated through measurement of the frequency change, which corresponds to mass change due to the adsorption of molecules. Observed increase in electrode mass suggests that SAMs formed on copper surface by the adsorption of phosphonic acids. Results clearly demonstrate that adsorbed amounts of phosphonic acids were strongly influenced by immersion time and molecular structure. Quantum chemical calculations were performed by semi-empirical PM6 method, in order to explain the relationship between molecular structure and adsorption mechanism. Quantum chemical parameters of phosphonic acids propound that adsorption of molecules on copper surface has a chemical mechanism. Corrosion protection ability of SAMs against the acidic corrosion of copper has been evaluated in 0.1[Formula: see text]M H2SO4 solution. It was found that phosphonic acid SAMs act as protective barrier and the protection efficiencies increased in the following order: [Formula: see text].
On the K-functional in learning theory
Authors: Sheng Bao-Huai , Wang Jian-Li
Published: October 2019

[Formula: see text]-functionals are used in learning theory literature to study approximation errors in kernel-based regularization schemes. In this paper, we study the approximation error and [Formula: see text]-functionals in [Formula: see text] spaces with [Formula: see text]. To this end, we give a new viewpoint for a reproducing kernel Hilbert space (RKHS) from a fractional derivative and treat powers of the induced integral operator as fractional derivatives of various orders. Then a generalized translation operator is defined by Fourier multipliers, with which a generalized modulus of smoothness is defined. Some general strong equivalent relations between the moduli of smoothness and the [Formula: see text]-functionals are established. As applications, some strong equivalent relations between these two families of quantities on the unit sphere and the unit ball are provided explicitly.
Dielectric behaviors and relaxor characteristics in Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3-BaTiO3 ceramics
Authors: Chen Pei , Wang Jun , Zeng Weidong , Zhou Changrong , Zhang Yongsheng , Li Qingning , Xu Jiwen , Chen Guohua , Yuan Changlai
Published: October 2019

Microstructure and dielectric behaviors of heating/cooling and bias-field were investigated in lead-free ceramics ([Formula: see text])[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]BaTiO3 (BNT[Formula: see text]BT, [Formula: see text], 0.02, 0.04, 0.06, 0.08 and 0.10). The relaxor characters and the Vogel–Fulcher law of frequency-dependent dielectric properties were analyzed. Three dielectric anomalies with pronounced frequency dispersion at [Formula: see text], a maximum dielectric with variable frequency-dispersion at [Formula: see text] and a third Maxwell–Wagner-type relaxation over a wide temperature range in high-temperature region were observed. The significant dielectric thermal hysteresis, low barrier energy, high freezing temperature in heating process and the maximum dielectric tunability appeared in [Formula: see text] ceramic.
Examining the Economics of Affordability Through Water Diaries in Coastal Bangladesh
Authors: Hoque Sonia F. , Hope Robert
Published: October 2019

Monitoring affordability of drinking water services is constrained by data gaps from traditional approaches that rely on cross-sectional data from infrequent, nationally representative surveys. Estimates of income or expenditure ratios spent on accessing a main source of drinking water are poorly equipped to reflect affordability in rural contexts where poor people often resort to multiple sources of varying costs, quality and distance to cope with unreliable or absent water supplies. Here, we present findings from an 18-week water diary study that documented daily water choices and expenditures of a stratified sample of 120 households in coastal Bangladesh. This intensive, longitudinal monitoring is supported by household surveys, water infrastructure mapping, hydrogeological analysis of salinity, automated rainfall measurements and interviews with diary participants. We identify five water expenditure typologies, ranging from those who always rely on unpaid and often poor-quality sources like shallow tubewells, pond sand filters and rainwater, to those who purchase vended water for drinking and cooking all year-round, spending 3–7% of total household expenditure. These behavioral dynamics are shaped by environmental, infrastructure and cultural factors, with household wealth being a weak indicator of behavior. We conclude that affordability measures should recognize the quality of service available and chosen by users across seasons, rather than being fixated on income or expenditure ratios for a main source. Measuring the latter without considering the former impedes the design of service delivery models appropriate for providing safe and reliable water supplies, at costs that users and society are willing to bear and sustain.
The antagonist of CXCR1 and CXCR2 protects db/db mice from metabolic diseases through modulating inflammation
Authors: Cui Siyuan , Qiao Lu , Yu Shanshan , Men Lili , Li Yu , Li Fang , Du Jianling
Published: October 2019

Interleukin-8 (IL-8, also named CXCL8) binds to its receptors (CXCR1 and CXCR2) with subsequent recruitment of neutrophils and enhancement of their infiltration into inflamed sites, which exaggerates inflammation in many diseases. Recent studies have proposed that metabolic disorders can be attenuated by counteracting certain inflammatory signal pathways. In this study, we examined whether intervention with G31P, an antagonist of CXCL8, could attenuate tissue inflammation and development of metabolic disorders in db/db mice. The db/m and db/db mice were subcutaneously injected with G31P or equivalent normal saline once a day for 6 wk. The physical and metabolic parameters, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, hepatic lipid accumulation, and inflammation markers were measured. G31P improved hepatic insulin sensitivity by modulating expression of genes related to gluconeogenesis and phosphorylated Akt levels. The expressions of several genes encoding proteins involved in de novo lipogenesis were decreased in G31P-treated db/db mice. Meanwhile, immune cell infiltration and cytokine release were attenuated in db/db mice with G31P treatment. G31P also improved the ratio of proinflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages. Furthermore, G31P ameliorates metabolic disturbances via inhibition of CXCR1 and CXCR2 pathways in db/db mice. These data suggest that the selective inhibition of CXC chemokines may have therapeutic effects on symptoms associated with obesity and diabetes.
Amelioration of metabolic syndrome by metformin associates with reduced indices of low-grade inflammation independently of the gut microbiota
Authors: Adeshirlarijaney Aneseh , Zou Jun , Tran Hao Q. , Chassaing Benoit , Gewirtz Andrew T.
Published: October 2019

Metformin beneficially impacts several aspects of metabolic syndrome including dysglycemia, obesity, and liver dysfunction, thus making it a widely used frontline treatment for early-stage type 2 diabetes, which is associated with these disorders. Several mechanisms of action for metformin have been proposed, including that it acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, possibly as a result of its impact on intestinal microbiota. In accord with this possibility, we observed herein that, in mice with diet-induced metabolic syndrome, metformin impacts the gut microbiota by preventing its encroachment upon the host, a feature of metabolic syndrome in mice and humans. However, the ability of metformin to beneficially impact metabolic syndrome in mice was not markedly altered by reduction or elimination of gut microbiota, achieved by the use of antibiotics or germfree mice. Although reducing or eliminating microbiota by itself suppressed diet-induced dysglycemia, other features of metabolic syndrome including obesity, hepatic steatosis, and low-grade inflammation remained suppressed by metformin in the presence or absence of gut microbiota. These results support a role for anti-inflammatory activity of metformin, irrespective of gut microbiota, in driving some of the beneficial impacts of this drug on metabolic syndrome.
Maternal Diet-Induced Obesity Compromises Oxidative Stress Status and Angiogenesis in the Porcine Placenta by Upregulating Nox2 Expression
Authors: Hu Chengjun , Yang Yunyu , Li Jiaying , Wang Hao , Cheng Chuanhui , Yang Linfang , Li Qiqi , Deng Jinping , Liang Zuman , Yin Yulong , Xie Zhengjun , Tan Chengquan
Published: October 2019

Maternal obesity is associated with placental oxidative stress. However, the mechanism underlying this association remains poorly understood. In the present study, a gilt obesity model was developed by exposure to different energy diets and used to investigate the role of NADPH oxidase 2 (Nox2) in the placenta. Specifically, 99 gilts (Guangdong Small-ear Spotted pig) at day 60 of gestation were randomly assigned to one of the following three treatments: low-energy group (L, DE=11.50 MJ/kg), medium-energy group (M, DE=12.41 MJ/kg), and high-energy group (H, DE=13.42 MJ/kg), with 11 replicate pens per treatment and 3 gilts per pen. At the start of the study, maternal body weight and backfat thickness were not significantly different in the three treatments. After the study, data indicated that the H group had higher body weight and backfat thickness gain for gilts during gestation and lower piglet birth weight compared with the other two groups. Additionally, the H group showed glucolipid metabolic disorders and increased triglyceride and nonesterified fatty acid contents in the placenta of gilts. Compared with the L group, the H group exhibited lower mitochondrial biogenesis and increased oxidative damage in the placenta. Importantly, increased mRNA expression and protein abundance of Nox2 were observed for the first time in H group placentae. Furthermore, compared with the L group, the H group showed a decrease in the density of placental vessels and the protein levels of vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), and phosphorylation of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (p-VEGFR2) as well as the immunostaining intensity of platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (CD31). Our findings suggest that maternal high-energy diet-induced obesity increases placental oxidative stress and decreases placental angiogenesis possibly through the upregulation of Nox2.
Are Nonnutritive Sweeteners Obesogenic? Associations between Diet, Faecal Microbiota, and Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Morbidly Obese Subjects
Authors: Farup Per G. , Lydersen Stian , Valeur Jørgen
Published: October 2019

Obesity has been associated with changes in the gut microbiota and its metabolites. The study explored changes in the faecal microbiota and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) associated with the diet (including nonnutritive sweeteners (NNSs)) and evaluated metabolic consequences in subjects with morbid obesity. The diet was assessed with a validated food frequency questionnaire. One unit of NNSs was 100 mL beverage with NNSs or 2 tablets/teaspoons of NNSs. The faecal microbiota was assessed with GA-map® dysbiosis test and SCFA with gas chromatography and flame ionisation detection. Fourteen men and 75 women with a mean age of 44.6 (SD 8.7) years, BMI 41.8 (SD 3.6) kg/m2, and intake of NNSs 7.5 units/day (SD 3.2; range 0–43) were included. Faecal butyric acid was positively and negatively associated with the intake of starch (partial correlation = 0.264; p=0.015) and NNSs (partial correlation = −0.274; p=0.011), respectively. NNSs were associated with changes in four out of 39 bacterial groups. Butyric acid has antiobesogenic effects, reduces insulin resistance, and improves dyslipidaemia. Since the weight-reducing effect of NNSs on obese adults trying to lose weight is dubious, it seems imprudent to use NNSs that might counteract the favourable effects of butyric acid.
Toxoplasmosis in Pregnant Women and HIV/AIDS Patients in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Feleke Daniel Getacher , Gebreweld Angesom , Zewde Gashaw
Published: October 2019

Background. Although Toxoplasma gondii infection in immune-competent individuals is usually asymptomatic or causes a mild flu-like illness, it may become severe and can occasionally be fatal in immune-compromised people, such as AIDS patients or pregnant women. Method. Electronic English databases (Pubmed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Scopus), parasitology congresses, and theses of Ethiopian medical universities, were systematically searched (published or unpublished data). Full-length articles and abstracts were collected using keywords such as Toxoplasma gondii, Toxoplasmosis, pregnant women, HIV/AIDS, and Ethiopia. Results. Analysis of seroprevalence estimates was pooled using a random effects meta-analysis. Seventeen studies were included in the present systematic review and meta-analysis. One of these studies reported seroprevalence of T. gondii in HIV/AIDS patients and pregnant women. In this review, a total of 4,030 individuals were included and analyzed. The pooled prevalence of T. gondii in this review was 81.00% (95% CI = 69.10–89.78). Sub-group analysis showed that 2,557 pregnant women were evaluated. In pregnant women, the pooled sero-prevalence was 71.2 (95% CI = [51.9%, 87.1%]. In HIV/AIDS patients, 1,473 individuals were evaluated and the pooled seroprevalence was 88.45 (95% CI = 80.87%–94.31%). Conclusion. This systematic review and meta-analysis identified a high seroprevalence of Toxoplasma infection of 81% among immunocompromised patients. Scaling up prevention and control methods mainly strengthening educational efforts are necessary to avoid reactivation and to stop the spread of T. gondii infection.
Modeling and Oil Contamination Influence Control of a Vehicle Mounted and Unbalanced Barrel Pitching System
Authors: Chu Yuanbo
Published: October 2019

The vehicle mounted and unbalanced barrel pitching system is a typical kind of high precision electrohydraulic servo system. The key to system control is not only to overcome the influence of external interference such as unbalanced torque and road fluctuation, but also to suppress the influence of internal parameters’ change induced by oil contamination. Firstly, the overall model of barrel pitching system is established and its sensitivity analysis is conducted, and then the correction link and the pressure difference feedback loop are respectively designed to suppress the influence of unbalanced torque and road fluctuation. Secondly, the influence of oil contamination is categorized and the core decay parameters are determined, and then the fractional order fuzzy PID controller is designed. Finally, the simulation model of MATLAB/Simulink is built and the system simulation is carried out. The results show when the given angle is fixed on 25°, the setting time is reduced to 0.2 s, and the maximum steady state error is only 0.000132 rad. Thus, the presented method is effective for barrel pitching system’s control, and the service life of the equipment can be prolonged under the same required accuracy.
A Cloud-Assisted Region Monitoring Strategy of Mobile Robot in Smart Greenhouse
Authors: Li Xiaomin , Ma Zhiyu , Chu Xuan , Liu Yongxin
Published: October 2019

In smart agricultural systems, the macroinformation sensing by adopting a mobile robot with multiple types of sensors is a key step for sustainable development of agriculture. Also, in a region monitoring strategy that meets the real-scene requirements, optimal operation of mobile robots is necessary. In this paper, a cloud-assisted region monitoring strategy of mobile robots in a smart greenhouse is presented. First, a hybrid framework that contains a cloud, a wireless network, and mobile multisensor robots is deployed to monitor a wide-region greenhouse. Then, a novel strategy that contains two phases is designed to ensure valid region monitoring and meet the time constraints of a mobile sensing robot. In the first phase, candidate region monitoring points are selected using the improved virtual forces. In the second phase, a moving path for the mobile node is calculated based on Euclidean distance. Subsequently, the applicability of the proposed strategy is verified by the greenhouse test system. The verification results show that the proposed algorithm has better performance than the conventional methods. The results also demonstrate that, by applying the proposed algorithm, the number of monitoring points and time consumption can reduce, while the valid monitoring region area is enlarged.
Application of Analytical Solution to Steady‐State Temperature Field by Double‐Row‐Pipe Freezing and Verification with Field Measurement: A Case Study of Connected Aisle
Authors: Hong Zequn , Hu Xiangdong
Published: October 2019

In order to solve the problem of sealing water and bearing capacity of a connected aisle in an underwater shield tunnel, a double‐circle horizontal freezing method was adopted for ground reinforcement in the connected aisle of Maliuzhou Tunnel, which is China’s first shield tunnel with superlarge diameter built in a composite stratum. This paper proposed a new double‐row‐pipe freezing model for the calculation of frozen wall thickness based on analytical solution to steady‐state temperature field. Besides, field measurement and transient numerical studies of the active freezing period were also carried out to study the freeze‐sealing effect. The results show that frozen wall thickness obtained by analytical solutions agrees well with numerical simulation results, which verifies the applicability of the newly proposed calculation method. Field analysis indicates that soil temperature gradually approaches a stable value which is far below the freezing point, and a reliable water‐sealing curtain can be formed around the designed connected aisle. Maximum impact of soil excavation on the frozen wall is about 10°C, and reducing exposure time of excavation surface can effectively alleviate the weakening of frozen wall. To obtain comprehensive analysis for freezing wall thickness, a more reasonable arrangement of temperature‐measuring holes is expected in future freezing engineering.
The Effect of Submucosal Injection of Plasma-Rich Platelets on Blood Inflammatory Markers for Patients with Bimaxillary Protrusion Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment
Authors: Ali Mahmood Trefa Mohammed , Chawshli Omar Fawzi
Published: October 2019

Objectives. The present study aims to reveal the systemic effects of submucosal injection of plasma-rich platelets (PRP) on blood inflammatory markers which was used in an attempt to reduce the retraction time of the upper canine following extraction of upper maxillary premolars for patients with bimaxillary protrusion. Hypothesis. No change on comparing the values of blood inflammatory markers before and after submucosal injection of PRP. Methods. Eighteen female patients with bimaxillary protusion were selected from patients seeking orthodontic treatment from the College of Dentistry/University of Sulaimai, whose maxillary and mandibular first premolars were decided to be extracted after proper diagnosis. Thirty-three blood markers (twenty hematological and thirteen biochemical markers) were estimated before orthodontic bracketing, 24 hours and 7 days following submucosal injection of PRP (5 cc) to reveal the systematic effect of PRP on blood inflammatory markers that were used in an attempt to reduce the retraction time of the upper canine following extraction of upper maxillary premolars for patients with bimaxillary protrusion. Results. The results indicate nonsignificant differences in the values of all blood markers except for gamma GT (GGT), PDWa, serum albumin, serum total protein, and total calcium. Gamma level significantly increased for both test intervals. On the other hand, there was a significant drop in the value of PDWa while for alkaline phosphatase, there was a drop within the first 24 hr of PRP injection while after 7 days the value was significantly increased. On the other hand, there was a drop in the level of serum albumin, while there was an increase in the serum total protein and total calcium. Conclusion. Submucosal injection of PRP could lead to systematic alteration of blood parameters including ALK phosphatase, gamma GT, serum albumin, and serum total protein, which may be related to liver function in addition to increase in the level of PDWa and serum calcium. We present evidence that PRP contains and may trigger systemic effect. Thus, further investigation is recommended to follow up the patient for a longer period of time and on a larger sample. This trial is registered with U1111-1221-8829 by Sri Lanka Clinical Trial Registry, SLCTR/2018/040, and No. 64 on 6th August 2018 at the local clinical studies database, College of Dentistry.
Comprehensive Analysis of TIFY Transcription Factors and Their Expression Profiles under Jasmonic Acid and Abiotic Stresses in Watermelon
Authors: Yang Youxin , Ahammed Golam Jalal , Wan Chunpeng , Liu Haoju , Chen Rongrong , Zhou Yong
Published: October 2019

The TIFY gene family is plant-specific and encodes proteins involved in the regulation of multiple biological processes. Here, we identified 15 TIFY genes in the watermelon genome, which were divided into four subfamilies (eight JAZs, four ZMLs, two TIFYs, and one PPD) in the phylogenetic tree. The ClTIFY genes were unevenly located on eight chromosomes, and three segmental duplication events and one tandem duplication event were identified, suggesting that gene duplication plays a vital role in the expansion of the TIFY gene family in watermelon. Further analysis of the protein architectures, conserved domains, and gene structures provided additional clues for understanding the putative functions of the TIFY family members. Analysis of qRT-PCR and RNA-seq data revealed that the detected ClTIFY genes had preferential expression in specific tissues. qRT-PCR analysis revealed that nine selected TIFY genes were responsive to jasmonic acid (JA) and abiotic stresses including salt and drought. JA activated eight genes and suppressed one gene, among which ClJAZ1 and ClJAZ7 were the most significantly induced. Salt and drought stress activated nearly all the detected genes to different degrees. These results lay a foundation for further functional characterization of TIFY family genes in Citrullus lanatus.
Two‐Dimensional Electroosmotic Consolidation Theory of Nonlinear Soil Voltage Distribution Characteristics
Authors: Shen Yang , Feng Jianting , Ma Yinghao , Liu Hanlong
Published: October 2019

Soil voltage is generally assumed to show a linear relationship with distance from the cathode according to the established electroosmotic consolidation equation. However, this assumption is inconsistent with experimental results. To more reasonably reflect the soil consolidation process during electroosmosis treatment, it is necessary to consider the influence of the actual soil voltage distribution trend when establishing the electroosmotic consolidation equation. Electroosmosis results show that soil voltage exhibits nonlinear distribution characteristics against distance from the cathode. The change trend of soil voltage can be well reflected by cubic polynomial fitting. Then, the anodic electrode was taken as the research object, and a two‐dimensional horizontal plane model of electroosmosis was established because it represents practical electroosmosis applications more closely than some other models. Based on this established model, the dissipation equation describing the excess pore water pressure and the soil consolidation equation were derived for the electroosmosis treatment process. The derivation process considered both linear and nonlinear soil voltage distributions, wherein the anode was closed and the cathode was open. Finally, the analytical solution was analyzed and validated with model test cases in terms of the excess pore water pressure and average moisture content of the soil. The trend observed in the measured excess pore water pressure was more consistent with that of the theoretical results calculated assuming a nonlinear soil voltage distribution than that obtained using a linear distribution. In addition, the measured values of the average moisture content in the soil were closer to the values calculated under a nonlinear distribution of soil voltage than to those calculated under a linear distribution. These results further show that the established consolidation equation is reasonable when a nonlinear distribution of soil voltage is considered. The proposed consolidation equation can thus improve the application of electroosmotic methods in the future.
Throughput Analysis and Optimization of Relay Selection Techniques for Millimeter Wave Communications
Authors: Alhamad Raed , Boujemaa Hatem
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we optimize the throughput of millimeter wave communications using relay selection techniques. We study opportunistic amplify and forward (OAF), opportunistic decode and forward (ODF), and partial and reactive relay selection (PRS and RRS). Our analysis is valid for interference-limited millimeter wave communications. We suggest a new optimal power allocation (OPA) strategy that offers significant performance enhancement with respect to uniform power allocation (UPA). The proposed OPA offers up to 2 dB gain with respect to UPA. Our analysis is confirmed with extensive simulation results for Nakagami fading channels.
Modulation of ERQC and ERAD: A Broad-Spectrum Spanner in the Works of Cancer Cells?
Authors: Tax Gábor , Lia Andrea , Santino Angelo , Roversi Pietro
Published: October 2019

Endoplasmic reticulum glycoprotein folding quality control (ERQC) and ER-associated degradation (ERAD) preside over cellular glycoprotein secretion and maintain steady glycoproteostasis. When cells turn malignant, cancer cell plasticity is affected and supported either by point mutations, preferential isoform selection, altered expression levels, or shifts to conformational equilibria of a secreted glycoprotein. Such changes are crucial in mediating altered extracellular signalling, metabolic behavior, and adhesion properties of cancer cells. It is therefore conceivable that interference with ERQC and/or ERAD can be used to selectively damage cancers. Indeed, inhibitors of the late stages of ERAD are already in the clinic against cancers such as multiple myeloma. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of the complex relationship between glycoproteostasis and cancer biology and discuss the potential of ERQC and ERAD modulators for the selective targeting of cancer cell plasticity.
Comparing Four Video Laryngoscopes and One Optical Laryngoscope with a Standard Macintosh Blade in a Simulated Trapped Car Accident Victim
Authors: Raimann Florian J. , Tepperis Daniel M. , Meininger Dirk , Zacharowski Kai , Schalk Richard , Byhahn Christian , Weber Christian F. , Mutlak Haitham
Published: October 2019

Background. Tracheal intubation still represents the “gold standard” in securing the airway of unconscious patients in the prehospital setting. Especially in cases of restricted access to the patient, video laryngoscopy became more and more relevant. Objectives. The aim of the study was to evaluate the performance and intubation success of four different video laryngoscopes, one optical laryngoscope, and a Macintosh blade while intubating from two different positions in a mannequin trial with difficult access to the patient. Methods. A mannequin with a cervical collar was placed on the driver’s seat. Intubation was performed with six different laryngoscopes either through the driver’s window or from the backseat. Success, C/L score, time to best view (TTBV), time to intubation (TTI), and number of attempts were measured. All participants were asked to rate their favored device. Results. Forty-two physicians participated. 100% of all intubations performed from the backseat were successful. Intubation success through the driver’s window was less successful. Only with the Airtraq® optical laryngoscope, 100% success was achieved. Best visualization (window C/L 2a; backseat C/L 2a) and shortest TTBV (window 4.7 s; backseat 4.1 s) were obtained when using the D-Blade video laryngoscope, but this was not associated with a higher success through the driver’s window. Fastest TTI was achieved through the window (14.2 s) when using the C-MAC video laryngoscope and from the backseat (7.3 s) when using a Macintosh blade. Conclusions. Video laryngoscopy revealed better results in visualization but was not associated with a higher success. Success depended on the approach and familiarity with the device. We believe that video laryngoscopy is suitable for securing airways in trapped accident victims. The decision for an optimal device is complicated and should be based upon experience and regular training with the device.
Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals a Developmental Hierarchy in Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis
Authors: Gruber Tanja A.
Published: October 2019

In this issue of Cancer Discovery, Halbritter and colleagues utilize single-cell RNA sequencing to dissect the cellular hierarchy in Langerhans cell histiocytosis. They identified a remarkably consistent composition of 14 cellular subsets across all patients with a range of clinical spectrums consistent with a shared developmental hierarchy driven by key transcriptional regulators.

See related article by Halbritter et al., p. 1406.