bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECT of daily antiseptic body wash with octenidine on nosocomial primary bacteraemia and nosocomial multidrug-resistant organisms in intensive care units: design of a multicentre, cluster-randomised, double-blind, cross-over study
Authors: Meißner Anne , Hasenclever Dirk , Brosteanu Oana , Chaberny Iris Freya
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Nosocomial infections are serious complications that increase morbidity, mortality and costs and could potentially be avoidable. Antiseptic body wash is an approach to reduce dermal micro-organisms as potential pathogens on the skin. Large-scale trials with chlorhexidine as the antiseptic agent suggest a reduction of nosocomial infection rates. Octenidine is a promising alternative agent which could be more effective against Gram-negative organisms. We hypothesise that daily antiseptic body wash with octenidine reduces the risk of intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired primary bacteraemia and ICU-acquired multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) in a standard care setting.

Methods and analysis

EFFECT is a controlled, cluster-randomised, double-blind study. The experimental intervention consists in using octenidine-impregnated wash mitts for the daily routine washing procedure of the patients. This will be compared with using placebo wash mitts. Replacing existing washing methods is the only interference into clinical routine.

Participating ICUs are randomised in an AB/BA cross-over design. There are two 15-month periods, each consisting of a 3-month wash-out period followed by a 12-month intervention and observation period. Randomisation determines only the sequence in which octenidine-impregnated or placebo wash mitts are used. ICUs are left unaware of what mitts packages they are using.

The two coprimary endpoints are ICU-acquired primary bacteraemia and ICU-acquired MDRO. Endpoints are defined based on individual ward-movement history and microbiological test results taken from the hospital information systems without need for extra documentation. Data on clinical symptoms of infection are not collected. EFFECT aims at recruiting about 45 ICUs with about 225 000 patient-days per year.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the ethics committee of the University of Leipzig (number 340/16-ek) in November 2016. Findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

DRKS-ID: DRKS00011282.
Validation of an automated delirium prediction model (DElirium MOdel (DEMO)): an observational study
Authors: Mestres Gonzalvo Carlota , de Wit Hugo A J M , van Oijen Brigit P C , Deben Debbie S , Hurkens Kim P G M , Mulder Wubbo J , Janknegt Rob , Schols Jos M G A , Verhey Frans R , Winkens Bjorn , van der Kuy Paul-Hugo M
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Delirium is an underdiagnosed, severe and costly disorder, and 30%–40% of cases can be prevented. A fully automated model to predict delirium (DEMO) in older people has been developed, and the objective of this study is to validate the model in a hospital setting.

Setting

Secondary care, one hospital with two locations.

Design

Observational study.

Participants

The study included 450 randomly selected patients over 60 years of age admitted to Zuyderland Medical Centre. Patients who presented with delirium on admission were excluded.

Primary outcome measures

Development of delirium through chart review.

Results

A total of 383 patients were included in this study. The analysis was performed for delirium within 1, 3 and 5 days after a DEMO score was obtained. Sensitivity was 87.1% (95% CI 0.756 to 0.939), 84.2% (95% CI 0.732 to 0.915) and 82.7% (95% CI 0.734 to 0.893) for 1, 3 and 5 days, respectively, after obtaining the DEMO score. Specificity was 77.9% (95% CI 0.729 to 0.882), 81.5% (95% CI 0.766 to 0.856) and 84.5% (95% CI 0.797 to 0.884) for 1, 3 and 5 days, respectively, after obtaining the DEMO score.

Conclusion

DEMO is a satisfactory prediction model but needs further prospective validation with in-person delirium confirmation. In the future, DEMO will be applied in clinical practice so that physicians will be aware of when a patient is at an increased risk of developing delirium, which will facilitate earlier recognition and diagnosis, and thus will allow the implementation of prevention measures.
Emergency obstetric care provision in Southern Ethiopia: a facility-based survey
Authors: Windsma Mitchell , Vermeiden Tienke , Braat Floris , Tsegaye Andualem Mengistu , Gaym Asheber , van den Akker Thomas , Stekelenburg Jelle
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To assess the provision of basic emergency obstetric and newborn care (BEmONC), knowledge of high-risk pregnancies and referral capacity at health centres in Southern Ethiopia.

Design

A facility-based survey, using an abbreviated version of the Averting Maternal Death and Disability needs assessment tool for emergency obstetric and newborn care. Modules included infrastructure, staffing, number of deliveries, maternal and perinatal mortality, BEmONC signal functions, referral capacity and knowledge of risk factors in pregnancy.

Setting

Primary healthcare centres providing delivery services in the Eastern Gurage Zone, a predominantly rural area in Southern Ethiopia.

Participants

All 20 health centres in the study area were selected for the assessment. One was excluded, as no delivery services had been provided in the 12 months prior to the study.

Results

Three out of 19 health centres met the government’s staffing norm. In the 12 months prior to the survey, 10 004 (X−=527±301) deliveries were attended to at the health centres, but none had provided all seven BEmONC signal functions in the three months prior to the survey (X−=3.7±1.2). Eight maternal and 32 perinatal deaths occurred. Most health centres had performed administration of parenteral uterotonics (17/89.5%), manual removal of placenta (17/89.5%) and neonatal resuscitation (17/89.5%), while few had performed assisted vaginal delivery (3/15.8%) or administration of parenteral anticonvulsants (1/5.3%). Reasons mentioned for non-performance were lack of patients with appropriate indications, lack of training and supply problems. Health workers mentioned on average 3.9±1.4 of 11 risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes. Five ambulances were available in the zone.

Conclusion

BEmONC provision is not guaranteed to women giving birth in health centres in Southern Ethiopia. Since the government aims to increase facility deliveries, investments in capacity at health centres are urgently needed.
Contribution of the voluntary sector to mental health crisis care in England: protocol for a multimethod study
Authors: Newbigging Karen , Mohan John , Rees James , Harlock Jenny , Davis Alex
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Timely access to the right kind of support for people experiencing a mental health crisis can be problematic. The voluntary sector (VS) plays a key role in providing support and enabling access, but there is a knowledge gap concerning its contribution and interface with public services in mental health crisis care. This study aims to address this.

Methods and analysis

The study has three empirical elements: (1) a national survey of voluntary sector organisations (VSOs) in England and national stakeholder interviews to develop a typology of organisations and interventions provided by VSOs; (2) detailed mapping of VS services in two regions through interviews and extending the national survey; (3) four case studies, identified from the regional mapping, of VS mental health crisis services and their interface with National Health Service (NHS) and local authority services, at both a system and individual level. Data collection will involve interviews with commissioners; VSO and NHS or local authority providers; and focus groups with people who have experience of VSO crisis support, both service users and carers; and mapping the crisis trajectory of 10 service users in each study site through narrative interviews with service users and informal carers to understand the experience of VSO crisis care and its impact.

Ethics and dissemination

The University of Birmingham Humanities and Social Sciences Ethical Review Committee granted ethical approval (reference ERN_16–1183) for the national and regional elements of the study. Ethical review by the Health Research Authority will be required for the case study research once the sites have been identified from the first two elements of the study. A range of methods including a policy seminar, publication in academic journals and a tool kit for commissioners and practitioners will be produced to maximise the impact of the findings on policy and practice.
‘Difficult Conversations’: evaluation of multiprofessional training
Authors: Brighton Lisa Jane , Selman Lucy Ellen , Gough Nicholas , Nadicksbernd JJ , Bristowe Katherine , Millington-Sanders Catherine , Koffman Jonathan
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Evidence-based communication skills training for health and social care professionals is essential to improve the care of seriously ill patients and their families. We aimed to evaluate the self-reported impact of ‘Difficult Conversations’, a multidisciplinary half-day interactive workshop, and gain feedback to inform future development and evaluation.

Methods

Service evaluation using questionnaire data collected before and immediately after workshops from February 2015 to August 2016 regarding participant self-assessed confidence, knowledge and skills. Qualitative free-text comments provided feedback about the workshop and were subjected to content analysis.

Results

Of 886 workshop participants, 655 completed baseline questionnaires and 714 postworkshop questionnaires; 550 were matched pairs. Participants were qualified or trainee general practitioners (34%), community nurses and care coordinators (32%), social care professionals (7%), care home staff (6%), advanced practice/specialist nurses (5%), care workers (5%) and allied health professionals (3%). All groups demonstrated significant increases in mean self-assessed confidence (2.46, 95% CI 2.41 to 2.51; to 3.20, 95% CI 3.17 to 3.24; P<0.001), knowledge (2.22, 95% CI 2.17 to 2.27; to 3.18, 95% CI 3.14 to 3.22; P<0.001) and skills (2.37, 95% CI 2.32 to 2.42; to 3.09, 95% CI 3.05 to 3.12; P<0.001). Qualitative findings showed participants valued role play, the communication framework acronym and opportunities for discussion. They commended workshop facilitators’ skills, the safe atmosphere and interprofessional learning. Suggested improvements included more prepared role play and greater coverage of the taught topics.

Conclusions

‘Difficult Conversations’ workshops were associated with improvements in participants’ self-assessed confidence, knowledge, and skills. Our findings identify workshop characteristics that are acceptable to multidisciplinary trainees. Further testing is warranted to determine effectiveness and accurately identify workshop components leading to change.
Guidelines on the management of abnormal liver blood tests
Authors: Newsome Philip N , Cramb Rob , Davison Suzanne M , Dillon John F , Foulerton Mark , Godfrey Edmund M , Hall Richard , Harrower Ulrike , Hudson Mark , Langford Andrew , Mackie Anne , Mitchell-Thain Robert , Sennett Karen , Sheron Nicholas C , Verne Julia , Walmsley Martine , Yeoman Andrew
Published: November 2017

These updated guidelines on the management of abnormal liver blood tests have been commissioned by the Clinical Services and Standards Committee (CSSC) of the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) under the auspices of the liver section of the BSG. The original guidelines, which this document supersedes, were written in 2000 and have undergone extensive revision by members of the Guidelines Development Group (GDG). The GDG comprises representatives from patient/carer groups (British Liver Trust, Liver4life, PBC Foundation and PSC Support), elected members of the BSG liver section (including representatives from Scotland and Wales), British Association for the Study of the Liver (BASL), Specialist Advisory Committee in Clinical Biochemistry/Royal College of Pathology and Association for Clinical Biochemistry, British Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (BSPGHAN), Public Health England (implementation and screening), Royal College of General Practice, British Society of Gastrointestinal and Abdominal Radiologists (BSGAR) and Society of Acute Medicine. The quality of evidence and grading of recommendations was appraised using the AGREE II tool. These guidelines deal specifically with the management of abnormal liver blood tests in children and adults in both primary and secondary care under the following subheadings: (1) What constitutes an abnormal liver blood test? (2) What constitutes a standard liver blood test panel? (3) When should liver blood tests be checked? (4) Does the extent and duration of abnormal liver blood tests determine subsequent investigation? (5) Response to abnormal liver blood tests. They are not designed to deal with the management of the underlying liver disease.
Prevalence and risk factor for injury in sub-Saharan Africa: a multicountry study
Authors: Diamond Megan B , Dalal Shona , Adebamowo Clement , Guwatudde David , Laurence Carien , Ajayi Ikeoluwapo O , Bajunirwe Francis , Njelekela Marina A , Chiwanga Faraja , Adami Hans-Olov , Nankya-Mutyoba Joan , Kalyesubula Robert , Reid Todd G , Hemenway David , Holmes Michelle D
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Injury-related morbidity is a neglected health concern in many low-income and middle-income countries. Most injury data in Africa have been collected from hospital-based studies, and few studies have occurred across multiple countries. Using data from a novel cohort, we examined the prevalence and incidence of serious injuries and associated risk factors across five sites in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Methods

A common baseline and follow-up survey was administered to participants. The study population included 1316 persons at baseline and 904 persons at follow-up. Frequencies were calculated, and logistic regression models were used to assess risk factors for injury.

Results

A total of 233 (17.7%) persons reported a serious injury at baseline and 60 (6.6%) reported a serious injury 6 months later at follow-up. Sixty-nine per cent of participants responded to the follow-up questionnaire. At baseline and follow-up, the most common cause of serious injury at urban sites was transport related, followed by poison/overdose. In rural Uganda, sharp instruments injuries were most common, followed by transport-related injuries. Living at an urban site was associated with an increased odds for serious injury compared with those at the rural site (OR: 1.83, 95% CI 1.15 to 2.90). Participants who consumed above a moderate amount of alcohol were at a higher risk of serious injury compared with those who did not consume alcohol (OR: 1.86, 95% CI 1.02 to 3.41). High level of education was an important risk factor for injury.

Conclusion

At baseline and follow-up, common causes of serious injury were transport related, sharp instrument and poison/overdose. Alcohol consumption, urban location and education are important risk factors for injury. It is feasible to collect longitudinal injury data using a standardised questionnaire across multiples sites in SSA. Longitudinal data collection should be leveraged to obtain robust data on risk factors for injury in SSA.
THE “MODEL MINORITY” MYTH: ASIAN AMERICAN MIDDLE CLASS BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE GREAT RECESSION
Authors: FAN JESSIE X. , ZAN HUA
Published: November 2017

Data from the Consumer Expenditure Survey (2003–2014) were used to both investigate trends in Asian American middle class status attainment before, during, and after the Great Recession and compare such attainment to that of non-Hispanic Whites. Using three different operational definitions of the middle class, we show that middle class size estimates during recession and post-recession were lower than pre-recession estimates for both Asian Americans and Whites. For all three periods, Asian Americans were substantially less likely to have achieved middle class status compared with Whites. The racial gap did not narrow or widen due to the Great Recession. Our analysis also found that basic demographic and socioeconomic differences explained a little over a quarter of this middle class attainment gap.
ESTIMATING MALAYSIA’S OUTPUT GAP: HAVE WE CLOSED THE GAP?
Authors: SHAHRIER NUR AIN , LIAN CHUAH LAY
Published: November 2017

The concepts of potential output and output gap are central to the policymakers’ analytical work in providing guidance to policy decisions. This paper presents three different estimation approaches for the Malaysian economy, namely, the univariate, multivariate and structural models. While the multivariate and structural models are mainly underpinned by theory and captured the concept of potential output better, most policymakers still maintain a suite of models to preserve diversity. Diversity provides a greater scope for cross-checking the robustness of results. The paper attempts to contribute by first, providing a critical assessment of the different models in estimating potential output and the output gap, and, second, the usefulness of each models in terms of assessing the drivers of future potential output, predicting price trends and identifying sources of inflation in the economy.
DETERMINANTS AND BARRIERS TO FINANCIAL INCLUSION IN MYANMAR: WHAT DETERMINES ACCESS TO FINANCIAL SERVICES AND WHAT HINDERS IT?
Authors: TAMBUNLERTCHAI KANITTHA
Published: November 2017

This paper examines two aspects of financial inclusion in the context of Myanmar. First, it examines the factors that determine access to formal savings products. Second, it looks at what the barriers to saving are. Using data from a nationally representative survey of 5100 individuals, the paper applies econometric estimation and qualitative data analysis methods to provide answers to these questions. Findings show a low level of saving in Myanmar, and that formal savings increase with income, education, and keeping a budget, among other factors. Policy recommendations include the design of financial literacy programs that are suitable to the Myanmar context, and providing access to financial services.
Reliability analysis of degradable networks with modified BPR
Authors: Wang Yu-Qing , Zhou Chao-Fan , Jia Bin , Zhu Hua-Bing
Published: November 2017

In this paper, the effect of the speed limit on degradable networks with capacity restrictions and the forced flow is investigated. The link performance function considering the road capacity is proposed. Additionally, the probability density distribution and the cumulative distribution of link travel time are introduced in the degradable network. By the mean of distinguishing the value of the speed limit, four cases are discussed, respectively. Means and variances of link travel time and route one of the degradable road network are calculated. Besides, by the mean of performing numerical simulation experiments in a specific network, it is found that the speed limit strategy can reduce the travel time budget and mean travel time of link and route. Moreover, it reveals that the speed limit strategy can cut down variances of the travel time of networks to some extent.
In Vitro Evaluation of Human Hand Tendon Ingrowth into A Synthetic Scaffold
Authors: Abdullah Shalimar , Mohtar Fadzlina , Abdul Shukor Nordashima , Sapuan Jamari
Published: November 2017

Background: Synthetic scaffold has been used for tissue approximation and reconstructing damaged and torn ligaments. This study explores the ability of tendon ingrowth into a synthetic scaffold in vitro, evaluate growth characteristics, morphology and deposition of collagen matrix into a synthetic scaffold.

Methods: Upper limb tendons were harvested with consent from patients with crush injuries and non-replantable amputations. These tendons (both extensor and flexor) measuring 1 cm are sutured to either side of a 0.5 cm synthetic tendon strip and cultured in growth medium. At 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks, samples were fixed into paraffin blocks, cut and stained with haematoxylin-eosin (H&E) and Masson’s trichrome.

Results: Minimal tendon ingrowth were seen in the first 2 weeks of incubation. However at 4 weeks, the cell ingrowth were seen migrating towards the junction between the tendon and the synthetic scaffold. This ingrowth continued to expand at 6 weeks and up to 8 weeks. At this point, the demarcation between human tendon and synthetic scaffold was indistinct.

Conclusions: We conclude that tendon ingrowth composed of collagen matrix were able to proliferate into a synthetic scaffold in vitro.
Tuberculosis of the Elbow Region in Pediatric Age Group – Experiences from a Single Centre
Authors: Agarwal Anil , Rastogi Anuj
Published: November 2017

Background: Clinical series of tuberculosis of elbow region in children are few. The purpose of our study was to retrospectively review the presentation, healing response and functional results of 30 children.

Methods: The pretreatment disease presentation was studied from patient’s case records. Serial radiographs of the patients were studied to see remineralization and healing of radiological lesions. For elbow’s functional evaluation, pain, range of motion and recurrence were observed at final follow up.

Results: The mean patient age was 8.2 years. The mean duration of symptoms before presentation was 47 days. A discharging sinus was present in 6 patients. Multifocal presentation was found in 7 patients. The lesion was most commonly localized in proximal ulna or lower humerus. The classical ‘ice cream scoop’ appearance of proximal ulnar metaphysis was noted in 5 elbows. Most elbows were in Martini stage 2 (70%) at the time of presentation. All patients were treated non-operatively. Average follow up after completion of antitubercular therapy was 18.97 months. The resolution of regional osteopenia, sclerosis of lytic lesions, reappearance of bony trabeculae and decrease in size of cavities was the usual sequence of radiological healing. End average elbow flexion arc deteriorated with increasing Martini stage. ‘Ice cream scoop lesions’ resulted in a worse functional outcome with formation of an irregular proximal ulnar articular surface.

Conclusions: Restriction of elbow range of motion, early discharging sinus formation and radiological ‘ice cream scoop’ appearance indicated a tubercular pathology. Late presentation with advanced disease, total joint involvement, and ‘ice cream scoop appearance’ resulted in decreased elbow flexion arc.
Prevalence of Absence of Palmaris Longus and Its Association with Gender, Hand Dominance and Absence of FDS Tendon to Little Finger Among Malay Population
Authors: Yong Mei Wen , Yusof Nabihah , Rampal Lekhraj , Arumugam Manohar
Published: November 2017

Background: Palmaris Longus is being widely used in reconstructive, plastic and cosmetic surgeries due to its long tendon. It is the most readily available source for tendon grafting. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of absence of Palmaris Longus and its association with gender, hand dominance and absence of FDS (flexor digitorum superficialis) tendon to little finger among Malay population.

Methods: An analytical cross sectional study design was used and a self-administered proforma was distributed for data collection. 1239 Malay secondary school children in Putrajaya were tested for absence of Palmaris Longus using Schaffer’s test. 4 additional tests namely Thompson’s test, Mishra’s test I, Mishra’s test II and Pushpakumar’s ‘two-finger sign’ method were used to confirm its absence in respondents with negative Schaffer’s test. Function of Flexor Digitorum Superficialis tendon to little finger was determined by flexing PIP of little finger while hyperextend the other fingers.

Results: The prevalence of absence of Palmaris Longus was 11.7%. Left side absence of Palmaris Longus was much common. There was a significant association between absence of Palmaris Longus with gender in which female had higher prevalence of absence of Palmaris Longus than male.

Conclusions: In conclusion, the prevalence of absence of Palmaris Longus in Malay population was lower than Indian but higher than Chinese population. Females had higher prevalence of absence of Palmaris Longus and no association can be found with hand dominance and absence of Flexor Digitorum Superficialis tendon to little finger.
Distraction Arthroplasty in an Osteochondral Defect of the Middle Finger in a Juvenile Patient
Authors: Choi In Cheul , Park Jong Woong , Lee Kwang Suk , Kim Dong Min
Published: November 2017

A 13-year-old female patient visited our hospital with a painful distal interphalangeal joint and deformity on her right middle finger. Initial plain radiographs uncovered ulnar-sided subluxation of the distal interphalangeal joint of the right middle finger, and an osteochondral defect was also noted at the articular surface of the distal and middle phalanges. We decided to attempt distraction arthroplasty with an external fixator. Finally postoperative 12-month follow-up plain radiographs showed complete osteochondral regeneration and phalangeal alignment. To our knowledge, this is the first report to assess the use of a distraction arthroplasty concept for treating an osteochondral defect in the finger.
Chronic Compartment Syndrome of the Mobile Wad: A Case Report
Authors: Abe Yukio , Fujii Kenzo
Published: November 2017

A case of chronic compartment syndrome of the mobile wad in a 15-year-old female amateur tennis player is described. She presented with a 7-month history of radial forearm pain and tenderness with mild swelling, and was unable to swing the tennis racket. MRI showed high intensity within the brachioradialis muscle. Endoscopic fasciotomy showed degeneration of the brachioradialis muscle belly. Complete pain relief was obtained 4 months after the fasciotomy.
Dynamically tailoring nonlinear Cherenkov radiation in PPLN by structured fundamental wave
Authors: Fang Xiangling , Liu Haigang , Zhao Xiaohui , Zheng Yuanlin , Chen Xianfeng
Published: November 2017

We numerically and experimentally investigated the Cherenkov-type second harmonic generation of structured fundamental wave, whose phase was periodically modulated, in periodically poled nonlinear crystals. The Cherenkov-type second harmonic generation with different parameters of the structured fundamental wave was investigated. The experimental results are in good agreement with the theoretical analysis. This study provides a method of dynamically tailoring the Cherenkov-type second harmonic wave and also has potential application in other nonlinear frequency conversion processes.
Game Theory and Control
Authors: Marden Jason R. , Shamma Jeff S.
Published: November 2017

Game theory is the study of decision problems in which there are multiple decision makers and the quality of a decision maker's choice depends on both that choice and the choices of others. While game theory has been studied predominantly as a modeling paradigm in the mathematical social sciences, there is a strong connection to control systems in that a controller can be viewed as a decision-making entity. Accordingly, game theory is relevant in settings with multiple interacting controllers. This article presents an introduction to game theory, followed by a sampling of results in three specific control theory topics where game theory has played a significant role: ( a) zero-sum games, in which the two competing players are a controller and an adversarial environment; ( b) team games, in which several controllers pursue a common goal but have access to different information; and ( c) distributed control, in which both a game and online adaptive rules are designed to enable distributed interacting subsystems to achieve a collective objective.
Thrombin-Induced Calpain Activation Promotes Protease-Activated Receptor 1 Internalization
Authors: Alvarez-Arce Alejandro , Lee-Rivera Irene , López Edith , Hernández-Cruz Arturo , López-Colomé Ana María
Published: November 2017

The serine protease thrombin activates Protease-Activated Receptors (PARs), a family of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) activated by the proteolytic cleavage of their extracellular N-terminal domain. Four members of this family have been identified: PAR1–4. The activation of Protease-Activated Receptor 1(PAR1), the prototype of this receptor family, leads to an increase in intracellular Ca+2concentration ([Ca+2]i) mediated byGq11αcoupling and phospholipase C (PLC) activation. We have previously shown that the stimulation of PAR1 by thrombin promotes intracellular signaling leading to RPE cell transformation, proliferation, and migration which characterize fibroproliferative eye diseases leading to blindness. Within this context, the elucidation of the mechanisms involved in PAR1 inactivation is of utmost importance. Due to the irreversible nature of PAR1 activation, its inactivation must be efficiently regulated in order to terminate signaling. Using ARPE-19 human RPE cell line, we characterized thrombin-induced [Ca+2]i increase and demonstrated the calcium-dependent activation ofμ-calpain mediated by PAR1. Calpains are a family of calcium-activated cysteine proteases involved in multiple cellular processes including the internalization of membrane proteins through clathrin-coated vesicles. We demonstrated that PAR1-induced calpain activation results in the degradation ofα-spectrin by calpain, essential for receptor endocytosis, and the consequent decrease in PAR1 membrane expression. Collectively, the present results identify a novelμ-calpain-dependent mechanism for PAR1 inactivation following exposure to thrombin.
Game-Theoretic Comparison Approach for Intercontinental Container Transportation: A Case between China and Europe with the B&R Initiative
Authors: Chen Xi , Zhu Xiaoning , Zhou Qingji , Wong Yiik Diew
Published: November 2017

This paper develops a game-theoretic model to analyze the competition between two container freight transportation modes (shipping and railway) using competitive game strategic interactions method, namely, deterrence, by taking account of the most cost-effective scale of the transportation capacity settings. The competition was set against the background of China’s Belt and Road (B&R) Initiative as a new situation for intercontinental Sino-Europe container freight transportation. The behavior of each mode (modeled as a carrier, resp.) is characterized by an optimization model with the objective of minimizing its cost by setting optimal basic freight rate and transportation deployment. A firm can use this method to compare the difference in the time value of the cargos and reduce the expense during the whole transportation process. Finally, the developed model is numerically evaluated by a case study of intercontinental transportation between Hefei (China) and Hamburg (Germany). The results show that deterrence effects largely depend on the deterrence objective, and the differential in the cost of two transportation modes tends to be stable with higher values in the deterrence objective. In the new intercontinental circumstance, the mode of railway transportation provides a new way to transport the cargos between China and Europe.
Stabilizedβ-Catenin Ameliorates ALPS-Like Symptoms of B6/lprMice
Authors: Xu Xiaoxie , Huang Jun , Zhao Mei , Chen Huanpeng , Mo Jinhua , Zhou Xiaoqing , Su Qiao , Yu Bolan , Huang Zhaofeng
Published: November 2017

Autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) is an incurable disease mainly caused by the defect of Fas-mediated apoptosis and characterized by nonmalignant autoimmune lymphoproliferation. Stabilizedβ-catenin could not only potentiate Fas-mediated T cell apoptosis via upregulating the expression of Fas on activated T cells, but also potentiate T cell apoptosis via intrinsic apoptotic pathway. In the present study, we introducedβ-catTgintolpr/lprmice and aimed to explore the potential role of stabilizedβ-catenin (β-catTg) in the development of ALPS-like phenotypes oflpr/lprmice. We found that the total splenocyte cells and some compositions were slightly downregulated inβ-catTglpr/lprmice, especially the CD4 and CD8 TEMcells were significantly reduced. Meanwhile, stabilizedβ-catenin obviously decreased the numbers of spleen TCRβ+CD4−CD8−T (DNT) cells, and the levels of some serum proinflammatory factors also were lowered inβ-catTglpr/lprmice. Beyond that, stabilizedβ-catenin slightly lowered the levels of the serum autoantibodies and the scores of kidney histopathology ofβ-catTglpr/lprmice compared withlpr/lprmice. Our study suggested that stabilizedβ-catenin ameliorated some ALPS-like symptoms oflpr/lprmice by potentiating Fas-independent signal-mediated T cell apoptosis, which might uncover a potential novel therapeutic direction for ALPS.
Nonlinear Dynamics Mechanism of Rock Burst Induced by the Instability of the Layer-Crack Plate Structure in the Coal Wall in Deep Coal Mining
Authors: Chen Yanlong , Lu Aihong , Mao Xianbiao , Li Ming , Zhang Lianying
Published: November 2017

The instability of layer-crack plate structure in coal wall is one of the causes of rock burst. In the present paper, we investigate the formation and instability processes of layer-crack plate structure in coal wall by experiments and theoretical analysis. The results reveal that layer-crack plate structure formed near the free surface of the coal wall during the loading. During the formation of the layer-crack plate structure, the lateral displacement curve of the coal wall experiences a jagged variation, which suggests the nonlinear instability failure of the coal wall with a sudden release of the elastic energy. Then, a dynamic model for the stability analysis of the layer-crack plate structure was proposed, which takes consideration of the dynamic disturbance factor. Based on the dynamic model, the criterion for dynamic instability of the layer-crack plate structure was determined and demonstrated by an example. According to the analytical results, some control methods of dynamic stability of the layer-crack plate structure was put forward.
Exploiting Microwave Imaging Methods for Real-Time Monitoring of Thermal Ablation
Authors: Scapaticci Rosa , Bellizzi Gennaro G. , Cavagnaro Marta , Lopresto Vanni , Crocco Lorenzo
Published: November 2017

Microwave thermal ablation is a cancer treatment that exploits local heating caused by a microwave electromagnetic field to induce coagulative necrosis of tumor cells. Recently, such a technique has significantly progressed in the clinical practice. However, its effectiveness would dramatically improve if paired with a noninvasive system for the real-time monitoring of the evolving dimension and shape of the thermally ablated area. In this respect, microwave imaging can be a potential candidate to monitor the overall treatment evolution in a noninvasive way, as it takes direct advantage from the dependence of the electromagnetic properties of biological tissues from temperature. This paper explores such a possibility by presenting a proof of concept validation based on accurate simulated imaging experiments, run with respect to a scenario that mimics an ex vivo experimental setup. In particular, two model-based inversion algorithms are exploited to tackle the imaging task. These methods provide independent results in real-time and their integration improves the quality of the overall tracking of the variations occurring in the target and surrounding regions.
Design of Active Frequency Selective Surface with Curved Composite Structures and Tunable Frequency Response
Authors: Lee In-Gon , Park Yong Bae , Chun Heung-Jae , Kim Yoon-Jae , Hong Ic-Pyo
Published: November 2017

We present an active frequency selective surface (AFSS) consisting of a curved composite structure that provides structural stability and robustness. The proposed structure can operate on either the C-band (OFF state) or X-band (ON state) by controlling the PIN diode located between the cross-shaped loop and the inductive stub on the surface. Moreover, it minimizes parasitic couplings through grid-type on/off bias circuits and via holes. Thus, the AFSS guarantees isolation from the unit cell, which is a downside of a previous control technique called reconfigurable frequency selective surface. We analyzed the impact of composite structures and the three-dimensional shape on the AFSS transmission with a foam-core sandwich structure, which is light and mechanically strong, by considering conditions of a real application environment.
Exact Solutions of the Vakhnenko-Parkes Equation with Complex Method
Authors: Gu Yongyi , Yuan Wenjun , Aminakbari Najva , Jiang Qinghua
Published: November 2017

We derive exact solutions to the Vakhnenko-Parkes equation by means of the complex method, and then we illustrate our main results by some computer simulations. We can apply the idea of this study to related nonlinear differential equation.
Ruling Out Brain CT Contraindications prior to Intravenous Thrombolysis: Diagnostic Equivalence between a Primary Interpretation Workstation and a Mobile Tablet Computer
Authors: Salazar Antonio J. , Useche Nicolás , Granja Manuel , Morillo Aníbal J. , Bermúdez Sonia
Published: November 2017

Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the equivalence of brain CT interpretations performed using a diagnostic workstation and a mobile tablet computer, in a telestroke service.Materials and Methods. The ethics committee of our institution approved this retrospective study. A factorial design with 1452 interpretations was used. The assessed variables were the type of stroke classification, the presence of contraindications to the tPA administration, the presence of a hyperdense intracranial artery sign (HMCA), and the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) score. These variables were evaluated to determine the effect that the reading system had on their magnitudes.Results. The achieved distribution of observed lesions using both the reading systems was not statistically different. The differences between the two reading systems to claim equivalence were 1.6% for hemorrhagic lesions, 4.5% for cases without lesion, and 5.2 for overall ischemic lesion. Equivalence was achieved at 2.1% for ASPECTS ≤ 6, 6.5% for the presence of imaging contraindication to the tPA administration, and 7.2% for the presence of HMCA.Conclusion. The diagnostic performance for detecting acute stroke is likely equivalent whether a tablet computer or a diagnostic workstation is used or not.
Beta-Defensin-2 and Beta-Defensin-3 Reduce Intestinal Damage Caused bySalmonella typhimuriumModulating the Expression of Cytokines and Enhancing the Probiotic Activity ofEnterococcus faecium
Authors: Fusco Alessandra , Savio Vittoria , Cammarota Marcella , Alfano Alberto , Schiraldi Chiara , Donnarumma Giovanna
Published: November 2017

The intestinal microbiota is a major factor in human health and disease. This microbial community includes autochthonous (permanent inhabitants) and allochthonous (transient inhabitants) microorganisms that contribute to maintaining the integrity of the intestinal wall, modulating responses to pathogenic noxae and representing a key factor in the maturation of the immune system. If this healthy microbiota is disrupted by antibiotics, chemotherapy, or a change in diet, intestinal colonization by pathogenic bacteria or viruses may occur, leading to disease. To manage substantial microbial exposure, epithelial surfaces of the intestinal tract produce a diverse arsenal of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), including, of considerable importance, theβ-defensins, which directly kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms. Based on the literature data, the purpose of this work was to create a line of intestinal epithelial cells able to stably express gene encoding humanβ-defensin-2 (hBD-2) and humanβ-defensin-3 (hBD-3), in order to test their role inS. typhimuriuminfections and their interaction with the bacteria of the gut microbiota.
Efficient ConvNet Feature Extraction with Multiple RoI Pooling for Landmark-Based Visual Localization of Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Hou Yi , Zhang Hong , Zhou Shilin , Zou Huanxin
Published: November 2017

Efficient and robust visual localization is important for autonomous vehicles. By achieving impressive localization accuracy under conditions of significant changes, ConvNet landmark-based approach has attracted the attention of people in several research communities including autonomous vehicles. Such an approach relies heavily on the outstanding discrimination power of ConvNet features to match detected landmarks between images. However, a major challenge of this approach is how to extract discriminative ConvNet features efficiently. To address this challenging, inspired by the high efficiency of the region of interest (RoI) pooling layer, we propose a Multiple RoI (MRoI) pooling technique, an enhancement of RoI, and a simple yet efficient ConvNet feature extraction method. Our idea is to leverage MRoI pooling to exploit multilevel and multiresolution information from multiple convolutional layers and then fuse them to improve the discrimination capacity of the final ConvNet features. The main advantages of our method are (a) high computational efficiency for real-time applications; (b) GPU memory efficiency for mobile applications; and (c) use of pretrained model without fine-tuning or retraining for easy implementation. Experimental results on four datasets have demonstrated not only the above advantages but also the high discriminating power of the extracted ConvNet features with state-of-the-art localization accuracy.
On Characterizing the Interactions between Proteins and Guanine Quadruplex Structures of Nucleic Acids
Authors: McRae Ewan K. S. , Booy Evan P. , Padilla-Meier Gay Pauline , McKenna Sean A.
Published: November 2017

Guanine quadruplexes (G4s) are four-stranded secondary structures of nucleic acids which are stabilized by noncanonical hydrogen bonding systems between the nitrogenous bases as well as extensive base stacking, or pi-pi, interactions. Formation of these structures in either genomic DNA or cellular RNA has the potential to affect cell biology in many facets including telomere maintenance, transcription, alternate splicing, and translation. Consequently, G4s have become therapeutic targets and several small molecule compounds have been developed which can bind such structures, yet little is known about how G4s interact with their native protein binding partners. This review focuses on the recognition of G4s by proteins and small peptides, comparing the modes of recognition that have thus far been observed. Emphasis will be placed on the information that has been gained through high-resolution crystallographic and NMR structures of G4/peptide complexes as well as biochemical investigations of binding specificity. By understanding the molecular features that lead to specificity of G4 binding by native proteins, we will be better equipped to target protein/G4 interactions for therapeutic purposes.
Does Mutated K-RAS Oncogene Attenuate the Effect of Sulindac in Colon Cancer Chemoprevention?
Authors: Rice Photini F.S. , Ehrichs Kevin G. , Jones Mykella S. , Chen Hwudarw , Hsu Chiu-Hsieh , Abril Edward R. , Nagle Raymond B. , Besselsen David G. , Barton Jennifer K. , Ignatenko Natalia A.
Published: November 2017

The NSAID sulindac has been successfully used alone or in combination with other agents to suppress colon tumorigenesis in patients with genetic predisposition and also showed its efficacy in prevention of sporadic colon adenomas. At the same time, some experimental and clinical reports suggest that a mutant K-RAS oncogene may negate sulindac antitumor efficacy. To directly assess sulindac activity at suppressing premalignant lesions carrying K-RAS mutation, we utilized a novel mouse model with an inducible colon-specific expression of the mutant K-ras oncogene (K-rasG12D). Tumor development and treatment effects were monitored by minimally invasive endoscopic Optical coherence tomography. Expression of the mutant K-ras allele accelerated azoxymethane (AOM)-induced colon carcinogenesis in C57BL/6 mice, a strain otherwise resistant to this carcinogen. Sulindac completely prevented AOM-induced tumor formation in K-ras wild-type (K-ras wt) animals. In K-rasG12D–mutant mice, a 38% reduction in tumor number, an 83% reduction in tumor volume (P ≤ 0.01) and an increase in the number of adenoma-free mice (P = 0.04) were observed. The partial response of K-RasG12D animals to sulindac treatment was evident by the decrease in mucosal thickness (P < 0.01) and delay in progression of the precancerous aberrant crypt foci to adenomas. Molecular analyses showed significant induction in cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), cleaved caspase-3 (CC3), and Ki-67 expression by AOM, but not sulindac treatment, in all genotypes. Our data underscore the importance of screening for K-RAS mutations in individuals with colon polyps to provide more personalized interventions targeting mutant K-RAS signaling pathways. Cancer Prev Res; 11(1); 16–26. ©2017 AACR.
Human Dendritic Cells with Th2-Polarizing Capacity: Analysis Using Label-Free Quantitative Proteomics
Authors: Hussaarts Leonie , Kaisar Maria Mardalena Martini , Guler Arzu Tugce , Dalebout Hans , Everts Bart , Deelder André M. , Palmblad Magnus , Yazdanbakhsh Maria
Published: November 2017

Background: Dendritic cells (DCs) are the sentinels of the immune system. Upon recognition of a pathogen, they mature and migrate to draining lymph nodes to prime and polarize T cell responses. Although it is known that helminths and helminth-derived molecules condition DCs to polarize T helper (Th) cells towards Th2, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Objectives: The aim of this study was to conduct a proteome analysis of helminth antigen-stimulated DCs in order to gain more insight into the cellular processes associated with their ability to polarize immune responses. Methods: We analyzed the maturation and polarization of monocyte-derived DCs from 9 donors at 2 different time points after stimulation with different Th1- and Th2-polarizing pathogen-derived molecules. The samples were measured using liquid chromatography-Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry for relative quantitation. Results: Lipopolysaccharide-induced maturation promoted the expression of proteins related to metabolic, cellular, and immune system processes. Th1-polarizing DCs, conditioned by IFN-γ during maturation, displayed accelerated maturation by differentially expressing cytoskeletal proteins and proteins involved in immune regulation. The stimulation of DCs with soluble egg antigens and omega-1 derived from Schistosoma mansoni, which are both Th2-inducing stimuli, increased 60S acidic ribosomal protein P2, and vesicle amine transferase 1 while decreasing the expression of proteins related to antigen processing and presentation. Conclusion: Our data indicate that not only proteins involved in the interaction between T cells and DCs at the level of the immunological synapse, but also those related to cellular metabolism and stress, may promote Th2 polarization.