bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
4-Hydroxyphenylpyruvate Dioxygenase Thermolability Is Responsible for Temperature-Dependent Melanogenesis in Aeromonas salmonicida subsp.
salmonicida
Authors: Qiao Yunqian , Wang Jiao , Wang He , Chai Baozhong , Rao Chufeng , Chen Xiangdong , Du Shishen
Published: October 2018

Aeromonas salmonicida
subsp. s
almonicida
is the causative agent of furunculosis, a bacterial septicemia of cold-water fish of the
Salmonidae
family. Although other
Aeromonas
species can produce melanin,
A. salmonicida
subsp.
salmonicida
is the only member of this genus that has been reported to exhibit temperature-dependent melanization. Here, we demonstrated that thermosensitive melanogenesis in
A. salmonicida
subsp.
salmonicida
strains is due to the thermolability of 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HppD). Additionally, we confirmed that this thermolabile HppD exhibited higher activity at low temperatures than its mesophilic homologues, suggesting this as an adaptive strategy of this enzyme to the psychrophilic lifestyle of
A. salmonicida
subsp.
salmonicida
. The strictly conserved
hppD
sequences among
A. salmonicida
subsp.
salmonicida
isolates and the specific possession of P103 and L119 residues could be used as a reference for the identification of
A. salmonicida
subsp.
salmonicida
isolates.
The Pneumococcal Surface Proteins PspA and PspC Sequester Host C4-Binding Protein To Inactivate Complement C4b on the Bacterial Surface
Authors: Haleem Kashif S. , Ali Youssif M. , Yesilkaya Hasan , Kohler Thomas , Hammerschmidt Sven , Andrew Peter W. , Schwaeble Wilhelm J. , Lynch Nicholas J.
Published: October 2018

Complement is a critical component of antimicrobial immunity. Various complement regulatory proteins prevent host cells from being attacked.
The Escherichia coli β-Barrel Assembly Machinery Is Sensitized to Perturbations under High Membrane Fluidity
Authors: Storek Kelly M. , Vij Rajesh , Sun Dawei , Smith Peter A. , Koerber James T. , Rutherford Steven T.
Published: October 2018

BamA is an essential component of the β-barrel assembly machine (BAM) in the outer membranes of Gram-negative bacteria. We have used a recently described inhibitory anti-BamA antibody, MAB1, to identify the molecular requirements for BAM function. Resistance to this antibody can be achieved through changes to the outer membrane or by amino acid substitutions in BamA that allosterically affect the response to MAB1. Sensitivity to MAB1 is achieved by perturbing BAM function. By using MAB1 activity and functional assays as proxies for BAM function, we link outer membrane fluidity to BamA activity, demonstrating that an increase in membrane fluidity sensitizes the cells to BAM perturbations. Thus, the search for potential inhibitors of BamA function must consider the membrane environment in which β-barrel folding occurs.
Five-year single-centre experience of carcinoma of the oesophagus from Blantyre, Malawi
Authors: Chetwood John David , Finch Peter J , Kankwatira Anstead , Mallewa Jane , Gordon Melita A , Masamba Leo
Published: October 2018

Background

Oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is increasing worldwide and has an exceptionally high prevalence in certain distinct geographical locations such as the African oesophageal SCC corridor. Despite this, there is a paucity of evidence to characterise the disease particularly in the Malawian context.

Method

We retrospectively audited our endoscopy database over 5 years, including for patient demographics, endoscopy findings, therapeutic intervention and recommendations for treatment.

Results

1586 patients with oesophageal cancer were identified from a total of 5882 endoscopy records from 2013 to 2017. Our cohort showed a larger proportion of oesophageal cancers found higher in the oesophagus compared with other African studies and a female preponderance in this upper-oesophagus disease subset though a male preponderance overall. 39% of patients with oesophageal cancer underwent bougie dilatation and 11% underwent palliative stent placement, which likely reflects local availability of resources.

Conclusion

This study validates the observation that OSCC predominates in sub-Saharan Africa in Malawi over other forms of oesophageal carcinoma, though our cohort appears to have subtly distinct demographics and disease-specific data. This highlights the need to prioritise preventative and therapeutic strategies for OSCC in this and similar settings.
Free contraception and behavioural nudges in the postpartum period: evidence from a randomised control trial in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: McConnell Margaret , Rothschild Claire Watt , Ettenger Allison , Muigai Faith , Cohen Jessica
Published: October 2018

Background

Short birth intervals are a major risk factor for poor maternal and newborn outcomes. Utilisation of modern contraceptive methods during the postpartum period can reduce risky birth intervals but contraceptive coverage during this critical period remains low.

Methods

We conducted a randomised controlled experiment to test whether vouchers for free contraception, provided with and without behavioural ‘nudges’, could increase modern contraceptive use in the postpartum period. 686 pregnant women attending antenatal care in two private maternity hospitals in Nairobi, Kenya, were enrolled in the study. The primary outcomes were the use of modern contraceptive methods at nearly 3 months and 6 months after expected delivery date (EDD). We tested the impact of a standard voucher that could be redeemed for free modern contraception, a deadline voucher that expired 2 months after delivery and both types of vouchers with and without a short message service (SMS) reminder, relative to a control group that received no voucher and no SMS reminder.

Results

By nearly 6 months after EDD, we find that the combination of the standard voucher with an SMS reminder increased the probability of reporting utilisation of a modern contraceptive method by 25 percentage points (pp) (95% CI 6 pp to 44 pp) compared with the control group. Estimated impacts in other treatment arms were not statistically significantly different from the control group.

Conclusions

Reducing financial barriers to postpartum contraception alone may not be enough to encourage take-up. Programmes targeting the postpartum period should consider addressing behavioural barriers to take-up.
Protocol for the STRONG trial: stereotactic body radiation therapy following chemotherapy for unresectable perihilar cholangiocarcinoma, a phase I feasibility study
Authors: Koedijk Merel S , Heijmen Ben J M , Groot Koerkamp Bas , Eskens Ferry A L M , Sprengers Dave , Poley Jan-Werner , van Gent Dik C , van der Laan Luc J W , van der Holt Bronno , Willemssen François E J A , Méndez Romero Alejandra
Published: October 2018

Introduction

For patients with perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), surgery is the only treatment modality that can result in cure. Unfortunately, in the majority of these patients, the tumours are found to be unresectable at presentation due to either local invasive tumour growth or the presence of distant metastases. For patients with unresectable CCA, palliative chemotherapy is the standard treatment yielding an estimated median overall survival (OS) of 12–15.2 months. There is no evidence from randomised trials to support the use of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for CCA. However, small and most often retrospective studies combining chemotherapy with SBRT have shown promising results with OS reaching up to 33–35 months.

Methods and analysis

This study has been designed as a single-centre phase I feasibility trial and will investigate the addition of SBRT after standard chemotherapy in patients with unresectable perihilar CCA (T1-4 N0-1 M0). A total of six patients will be included. SBRT will be delivered in 15 fractions of 3–4.5 Gy (risk adapted). The primary objective of this study is to determine feasibility and toxicity. Secondary outcomes include local tumour control, progression-free survival (PFS), OS and quality of life. Length of follow-up will be 2 years. As an ancillary study, the personalised effects of radiotherapy will be measured in vitro, in patient-derived tumour and bile duct organoid cultures.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval for the STRONG trial has been granted by the Medical Ethics Committee of Erasmus MC Rotterdam, the Netherlands. It is estimated that all patients will be included between October 2017 and October 2018. The results of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal, and presented at national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT03307538; Pre-results.
Ten-year risk prediction models of complications and mortality of Chinese patients with diabetes mellitus in primary care in Hong Kong: a study protocol
Authors: Wan Eric Yuk Fai , Yu Esther Yee Tak , Chin Weng Yee , Fung Colman Siu Cheung , Kwok Ruby Lai Ping , Chao David Vai Kiong , Chan King Hong , Hui Eric Ming-Tung , Tsui Wendy Wing Sze , Tan Kathryn Choon Beng , Fong Daniel Yee Tak , Lam Cindy Lo Kuen
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major disease burden worldwide because it is associated with disabling and lethal complications. DM complication risk assessment and stratification is key to cost-effective management and tertiary prevention for patients with diabetes in primary care. Existing risk prediction functions were found to be inaccurate in Chinese patients with diabetes in primary care. This study aims to develop 10-year risk prediction models for total cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and all-cause mortality among Chinese patients with DM in primary care.

Methods and analysis

A 10-year cohort study on a population-based primary care cohort of Chinese patients with diabetes, who were receiving care in the Hospital Authority General Outpatient Clinic on or before 1 January 2008, were identified from the clinical management system database of the Hospital Authority. All patients with complete baseline risk factors will be included and followed from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2017 for the development and validation of prediction models. The analyses will be carried out separately for men and women. Two-thirds of subjects will be randomly selected as the training sample for model development. Cox regressions will be used to develop 10-year risk prediction models of total CVD and all-cause mortality. The validity of models will be tested on the remaining one-third of subjects by Harrell’s C-statistics and calibration plot. Risk prediction models for diabetic complications specific to Chinese patients in primary care will enable accurate risk stratification, prioritisation of resources and more cost-effective interventions for patients with DM in primary care.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the University of Hong Kong—the Hospital Authority Hong Kong West Cluster (reference number: UW 15–258).

Trial registration number

NCT03299010; Pre-results.
Effects of the Namaste Care Family programme on quality of life of nursing home residents with advanced dementia and on family caregiving experiences: study protocol of a cluster-randomised controlled trial
Authors: Smaling Hanneke J A , Joling Karlijn J , van de Ven Peter M , Bosmans Judith E , Simard Joyce , Volicer Ladislav , Achterberg Wilco P , Francke Anneke L , van der Steen Jenny T
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Quality of life of people with advanced dementia living in nursing homes is often suboptimal. Family caregivers can feel frustrated with limited contact with their relatives, which results in visits that are perceived as stressful and not very meaningful. Few psychosocial interventions are specifically developed for people with advanced dementia, and actively involve family caregivers or volunteers. Also, interventions usually stop when it becomes difficult for people to participate. The Namaste Care Family programme aims to increase the quality of life of people with advanced dementia, and improve family caregiving experiences through connecting to people and making them comfortable.

Methods and analysis

Our study will evaluate the effects of the Namaste Care Family programme on quality of life of people with advanced dementia living in nursing homes and family caregiving experiences using a cluster-randomised controlled trial. Longitudinal analyses will be performed taking into account clustering at the nursing home level. Both a cost-effectiveness and a cost-utility analysis from a societal perspective will be performed. We will modify the Namaste Care Family programme to increase family and volunteer involvement in ongoing and end-of-life care. Data collection involves assessments by family caregivers, nursing staff and elderly care physicians using questionnaires, and observations by the researchers at baseline and multiple times over 12 months. The last questionnaire will be sent up to month 24 after the death of the person with dementia. During semistructured interviews, the feasibility, accessibility and sustainability of the Namaste Care Family programme will be assessed.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol is approved by the Medical Ethics Review Committee of the VU University Medical Center in Amsterdam (protocol no. 2016.399) and registered with the Nederlands Trial Register (NTR5692). The findings will be disseminated via publications in peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations and presentations for healthcare professionals where appropriate.

Trial registration number

NTR5692.
Sustainable approach to reducing unnecessary combined biochemistry tests on a paediatric cardiology ward
Authors: Regan William , Hothi Daljit , Jones Kevin
Published: October 2018

We describe a quality improvement project (QIP) designed to reduce unnecessary biochemistry samples requested on a paediatric cardiology ward in Great Ormond Street Hospital. Prior to the intervention biochemistry tests were requested on a daily basis by nursing and junior doctor staff at an annual cost of around £27 000 for the ward. The lead author observed that for the majority the true indication for these biochemistry tests was for the purpose of monitoring renal function and plasma electrolytes. However, during a diagnostic analysis trying to understand the behaviours around ordering tests it appeared that a broader profile and more expensive combined test set was being requested that included unnecessary liver and bone profile analyses. A driver diagram identified three areas to target in order to rationalise blood test requests: (1) a critical understanding of the purpose of the test by those requesting the tests; (2) effective communication between professionals; and (3) improved utilisation of the computer system. An education-based QIP was initiated with the aim of reducing requests of these costly, unnecessary combined biochemical tests by half, by supporting and encouraging staff to switch to a simpler renal function assay. The project was designed to be engaging and fun and invited clinical teams to consider the cost of wasted resources in terms of the financial implications for the hospital, and in terms of the wider environmental impact of wasted resources illustrated in terms of estimated carbon dioxide use. This perhaps unusual approach of encouraging an awareness of both financial and environmental cost led to a sustained reduction in the ordering of expensive combined biochemical tests, saving an estimated £11 338 (or 13.5%) on biochemistry tests and around 17.8 tonnes of carbon dioxide across a 32-month follow-up period.
Pain, agitation and delirium assessment and management in a community medical-surgical ICU: results from a prospective observational study and nurse survey
Authors: Maximous Ramez , Miller Franziska , Tan Carolyn , Camargo Mercedes , Ross Katie , Marshall Carl , Yung Priscilla , Fleming Dimitra , Law Madelyn , Tsang Jennifer L Y
Published: October 2018

Background

Delirium is a common manifestation in the intensive care unit (ICU) that is associated with increased mortality and morbidity. Guidelines suggested appropriate management of pain, agitation and delirium (PAD) is crucial in improving patient outcomes. However, the practice of PAD assessment and management in community hospitals is unclear and the mechanisms contributing to the potential care gap are unknown.

Objectives

This quality improvement initiative aimed to review the practice of PAD assessment and management in a community medical-surgical ICU (MSICU) and to explore the community MSICU nurses’ perceived comfort and satisfaction with PAD management in order to understand the mechanisms of the observed care gap and to inform subsequent quality improvement interventions.

Methods

We prospectively collected basic demographic data, clinical information and daily data on PAD process measures including PAD assessment and target Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS) score ordered by intensivists on all patients admitted to a community MSICU for >24 hours over a 20-week period. All ICU nurses in the same community MSICU were invited to participate in an anonymous survey.

Results

We collected data on a total of 1101 patient-days (PD). 653 PD (59%), 861 PD (78%) and 439 PD (39%) had PAD assessment performed, respectively. Target RASS was ordered by the intensivists on 515 PD (47%). Our nurse survey revealed that 88%, 85% and 41% of nurses were comfortable with PAD assessment, respectively.

Conclusions

Delirium assessment was not routinely performed. This is partly explained by the discomfort nurses felt towards conducting delirium assessment. Our results suggested that improvement in nurse comfort with delirium assessment and management is needed in the community MSICU setting.
STI initiative: Improving testing for sexually transmitted infections in women
Authors: Chadwick Ryan Christopher , McGregor Kathleen , Sneath Paula , Rempel Joshua , He Betty Li Qun , Brown Allison , Seifred Grant , McAuley John , Kamatovic Ralph John , Al-Husari Muhanad , Ahmed Salim , Bertolo Monica , Munkley Doug , Luterman Maynard
Published: October 2018

Canadian urgent care and walk-in medical clinics provide health care for a population that may be poorly covered by traditional health care structures. Despite evidence suggesting that women with urinary complaints experience a high incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), this population may be under-tested in this particular setting. The aim of this quality improvement initiative was to increase STI testing in women presenting with GU complaints. Implementation of an opt-out method of STI testing for women ages 16 and older was introduced at three walk-in clinics. Women presenting with GU complaints were given the opportunity to provide samples for both conventional urine culture and nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) for non-viral STIs. Patients received treatment according to standard of care and public health was notified as per local regulations. Testing rate and STI incidence was tracked via clinic electronic medical records (EMRs). Overall results were tracked using run charts and compared to historical data for the year prior to the start of the project. Over a 1 year period prior to this intervention, only 65 STI tests were performed in over 1100 GU complaints (5.5%). Six STIs were identified during this time. During the 36-week project period, testing increased to 45% of the patient population (320/707). The STI detected incidence increased from 0.51% to 1.4% in all women, and from 0.84% to 3.4% in women aged 16–29 years. An opt-out method was an effective intervention for increasing STI testing within the walk-in clinic setting. With optimisation, significant increases in testing rates can be obtained without substantially increasing clinic workload and at no economic cost to the clinic. As expected, detected incidence rates of STIs were higher than the recognised population prevalence.
Prevention of musculoskeletal injuries in recreational field hockey: the systematic development of an intervention and its feasibility
Authors: Gouttebarge Vincent , Zuidema Victor
Published: October 2018

Objective

This article describes the systematic development of an intervention for the prevention of lower extremity injuries in field hockey and the assessment of its feasibility.

Methods

The intervention was developed according to the first four steps of the intervention mapping and knowledge transfer scheme processes, mostly based on focus group interviews with experts in field hockey and injury prevention (needs assessment; objective and target groups; content selection; development). Subsequently, a quasi-experimental research (one-group post-test design) was conducted among 35 young field hockey players and 7 coaches. Participants were asked to use the intervention for 3 weeks, and the degrees of relevancy, suitability, satisfaction and usability of the intervention were assessed by means of a questionnaire and a group interview.

Results

First, the needs assessment conducted among the main actors within recreational field hockey revealed that an injury prevention intervention was needed, ideally delivered through videos via an application for smartphone/tablet or website. Second, the objective and target groups of the intervention were defined, namely to prevent or reduce the occurrence of lower extremity injuries among both young and adult recreational field hockey players. Third, warming-up exercises were selected as preventive measures and strategies (eg, core stability, strength, coordination). Last, the ‘Warming-Up Hockey’ intervention was developed, consisting of a warm-up programme (delivered by coaches including more than 50 unique exercises). The relevancy, satisfaction and usability of ‘Warming-Up Hockey’ were positively evaluated, but two main alterations were made: the duration of the ‘Warming-up Hockey’ was reduced from 16 to 12  min and a match-specific warm-up was added.

Conclusion

The feasibility of ‘Warming-Up Hockey’ was positively assessed by players and coaches. Prior to its nationwide implementation, the effectiveness of the intervention on injury reduction among field hockey players should be conducted.
Can simulation-based team resource management training help students to pass entrustable professional activities 13?
Authors: Ko Tung-Wen , Hung Sheng-Hui , Wu Yung-Lung , Lee Hui-Chen , Lein Heng-Hui , Wang Pa-Chun
Published: October 2018

Objective

Simulation technology has been integrated into team resource management (TRM) training in many hospitals. We designed a simulation-based TRM training scenario (SBTRM) aiming to help post graduate year (PGY) physicians to fulfil the requirements of the entrustable professional activities 13 (EPA 13). In this study, we investigate and report the SBTRM effectiveness.

Methods

A total of 61 physicians received the SBTRM from March to November 2017. The SBTRM covers the core contents of teamwork skills. The trainees were evaluated with qualified clinical instructors after SBTRM training. The evaluation form is a 15-item questionnaire that evaluates the communication, situation monitoring, attitudes and clinical treatment of trainee behaviour.

Results

A total of 75% of trainees agreed that the simulation is close to the usual care behaviour and helpful in thinking about changes in the surrounding conditions. More than 80% of trainees can actively communicate the care process; 82% of trainees can provide appropriate clinical treatment for patients. We found that physicians did not pay enough attention to the definition of ‘nursing work’. 75% of the overall performance of teamwork and patient safety reached only ‘good’ level.

Conclusions

Current medical education is increasingly using simulation to learn teamwork skills, with the hope that trainees use systematic thinking to carry out the care process. In this study, we designed a SBTRM and evaluation form that meets the requirements of EPA 13 for trainees. This training should improve physicians’ safety awareness in the first post-graduate year.
A new method to statistically describe microcatheter tip position in patient-specific aneurysm models
Authors: Nawka Marie Teresa , Buhk Jan-Hendrik , Gellissen Susanne , Sedlacik Jan , Fiehler Jens , Frölich Andreas Maximilian
Published: October 2018

Background and purpose

Evidence on how to select microcatheters to facilitate aneurysm catheterization during coil embolization is sparse. We developed a new method to define microcatheter tip location inside a patient-specific aneurysm model as a 3-dimensional probability map. We hypothesized that precision and accuracy of microcatheter tip positioning depend on catheter tip shape and aneurysmal geometry.

Materials and methods

Under fluoroscopic guidance two to three operators introduced differently shaped microcatheters (straight, 45°, 90°) into eight aneurysm models targeting the anatomic center of the aneurysm. Each microcatheter position was recorded with flat-panel CT, and 3-dimensional probability maps of the microcatheter tip positions were generated. Maps were assessed with histogram analyses and compared between tip shapes, aneurysm locations and operators.

Results

Among a total of 530 microcatheter insertions, the precision (mean distance between catheter positions) and accuracy (mean distance to target position) were significantly higher for the 45° tip (1.10±0.64 mm, 3.81±1.41 mm, respectively) than for the 90° tip (1.27±0.57 mm, p=0.010; 4.21±1.60 mm p=0.014, respectively). Accuracy was significantly higher in posterior communicating artery aneurysms (3.38±1.20 mm) than in aneurysms of the internal carotid artery (4.56±1.54 mm, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Our method can be used tostatistically describe statistically microcatheter behavior in patient-specific anatomy, which may improve the available evidence guiding microcatheter shape selection. Experience increases the ability to reach the intended position with a microcatheter (accuracy) that is also dependent on the aneurysm location, whereas catheter tip choice determines the variability of catheter tip placements versus each other (precision). Clinical validation is required.
Laboratory measures of coagulation among trauma patients on NOAs: results of the AAST-MIT
Authors: Kobayashi Leslie M , Brito Alexandra , Barmparas Galinos , Bosarge Patrick , Brown Carlos V , Bukur Marko , Carrick Matthew M , Catalano Richard D , Holly-Nicolas Jan , Inaba Kenji , Kaminski Stephen , Klein Amanda L , Kopelman Tammy , Ley Eric J , Martinez Ericca M , Moore Forrest O , Murry Jason , Nirula Raminder , Paul Douglas , Quick Jacob , Rivera Omar , Schreiber Martin , Coimbra Raul
Published: October 2018

Background

Warfarin is associated with poor outcomes after trauma, an effect correlated with elevations in the international normalized ratio (INR). In contrast, the novel oral anticoagulants (NOAs) have no validated laboratory measure to quantify coagulopathy. We sought to determine if use of NOAs was associated with elevated activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) or INR levels among trauma patients or increased clotting times on thromboelastography (TEG).

Methods

This was a post-hoc analysis of a prospective observational study across 16 trauma centers. Patients on dabigatran, rivaroxaban, or apixaban were included. Laboratory data were collected at admission and after reversal. Admission labs were compared between medication groups. Traditional measures of coagulopathy were compared with TEG results using Spearman’s rank coefficient for correlation. Labs before and after reversal were also analyzed between medication groups.

Results

182 patients were enrolled between June 2013 and July 2015: 50 on dabigatran, 123 on rivaroxaban, and 34 apixaban. INR values were mildly elevated among patients on dabigatran (median 1.3, IQR 1.1–1.4) and rivaroxaban (median 1.3, IQR 1.1–1.6) compared with apixaban (median 1.1, IQR 1.0–1.2). Patients on dabigatran had slightly higher than normal aPTT values (median 35, IQR 29.8–46.3), whereas those on rivaroxaban and apixaban did not. Fifty patients had TEG results. The median values for R, alpha, MA and lysis were normal for all groups. Prothrombin time (PT) and aPTT had a high correlation in all groups (dabigatran p=0.0005, rivaroxaban p<0.0001, and apixaban p<0.0001). aPTT correlated with the R value on TEG in patients on dabigatran (p=0.0094) and rivaroxaban (p=0.0028) but not apixaban (p=0.2532). Reversal occurred in 14%, 25%, and 18% of dabigatran, rivaroxaban, and apixaban patients, respectively. Both traditional measures of coagulopathy and TEG remained within normal limits after reversal.

Discussion

Neither traditional measures of coagulation nor TEG were able to detect coagulopathy in patients on NOAs.

Level of evidence

Level IV.
The cholesterol-deficiency associated mutation in APOB segregates at low frequency in Chinese Holstein cattle
Authors: Li Yanhua , Fang Lingzhao , Liu Lin , Zhang Shengli , Ma Zhu , Sun Dongxiao
Published: October 2018

Cholesterol deficiency (CD) is a recessive genetic defect in Holstein cattle, which affects the rearing success of calves. We investigated whether CD has been spread into the People’s Republic of China. A total of 138 Holstein bulls and 90 cows were screened for CD using polymerase chain reaction amplification and then seven bulls (5.07%) and one cow (1.11%) were identified as CD carriers. Pedigree analyses revealed that all seven CD carrier bulls were traced back to MAUGHLIN STORM and CD may have spread into the People’s Republic of China through his daughter, Braedale Baler Twine. Our results demonstrated that the CD defect exists in the Chinese Holstein population.
Elimination of pesticides by natural and modified clays
Authors: Bouazza Faiza , Benguella Belkacem , Soussi Sarah
Published: October 2018

The objective of this study is the variation of natural and modified clays and their use in industrial waste treatment. For this purpose, we carried out several elimination tests of the effluents by adsorption by using two natural clays from different deposits, namely bentonite located in Maghnia and Djabel Debbagh of Ain Berbar and bentonite coupled with cellulose. The adsorption test was performed on a Decis pesticide. The clays that we tested, in the natural state and in the modified state, are the object of a mineralogical and physicochemical characterization by various techniques of analysis: X-ray diffraction, chemical composition, spectroscopy infrared, cation exchange capacity, scanning electron microscopy, measurement of specific surface area, and various adsorption tests concerning kinetics and capacity, as well as kinetic and thermodynamic modeling and adsorption isotherms. The results showed the practical use of clays for the decontamination of waters contaminated by organic pollutants.
Localization of massless Elko spinor fields on de Sitter thick branes
Authors: Sorkhi Masoumeh Moazzen , Ghalenovi Zahra
Published: October 2018

In this work, we investigate the localization of a five-dimensional (5D) free massless Elko spinor field on de Sitter thick branes that are generated by a canonical or phantom scalar field. It is shown that the zero mode of Elko field cannot be localized on the de Sitter brane. In order to circumvent this problem, we employ a nonminimal coupling term in the 5D Elko spinor field action and find that the Elko field can be localized on the de Sitter brane with this mechanism.
Elastic and mechanical properties of AlZr3, AlCu3 and AlCu2Zr: First principles study
Authors: Afaq Ahmad , Bakar Abu , Asif Muhammad , Tahir Bashir
Published: October 2018

The aluminum-based intermetallic compounds AlZr3, AlCu3 and AlCu2Zr are studied for elastic and mechanical properties by a DFT embodied in WIEN2k code with Generalized Gradient Approximation (GGA) as an exchange correlation functional. The cubic elastic parameters [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are found keeping bulk modulus value the same as in the structural optimization. The mechanical properties such as Young’s modulus, shear modulus, anisotropic factor and Poisson’s ratio are then found using these fundamental parameters. It is found that our calculated results are in good agreement with available theoretical and experimental results.
A Bayes Analysis of Inverse Gaussian Based Accelerated Test Models
Authors: Upadhyay S. K. , Sen Rijji
Published: October 2018

The paper considers the Bayesian analysis of an elaborated family of regression models based on the inverse Gaussian distribution, a family that is quite useful for the accelerated test scenario in life testing. A variety of relationships between the model parameters and the entertained stress variable gives rise to four different families. For the Bayesian implementation, the paper considers independent weak priors for the parameters and proposes Gibbs sampler algorithm for obtaining samples from the relevant posteriors. The implementation is also extended when the data are subject to censoring mechanism. Numerical illustration is based on a real dataset on temperature accelerated life testing. Finally, the compatibility of each entertained model is assessed and they are compared using some commonly available Bayesian toolkits. The results are found to be satisfactory.
Trust But Verify: Donald Trump, Kim Jong Un and a Denuclearising North Korea after the Singapore Summit
Authors: PARK Hahnkyu
Published: October 2018

The Trump–Kim Summit in Singapore can be regarded as a meaningful first step in a long journey towards complete denuclearisation of North Korea. At the Singapore summit, President Donald Trump and Chairman Kim Jong Un agreed that North Korea would denuclearise completely and that the United States would in return provide North Korea with security guarantees. However, due to political complexity of the North Korean nuclear issue and technical difficulties of nuclear dismantlement, the process towards complete denuclearisation of North Korea is expected to be protracted and difficult. The prospects for future US–North Korea nuclear negotiations will largely depend on how both countries can work out together the concrete steps, phases and timelines for the implementation of denuclearisation.
China’s Modernising Nuclear Forces: In the Face of US Nuclear Primacy
Authors: LIU Bojian
Published: October 2018

Since 2001, when the United States has accelerated the strengthening of its nuclear primacy with a clearer strategy of assured destruction against any rivals, China has encountered greater pressure to further modernise its nuclear forces. In highlighting the enhanced credibility of its retaliation-based nuclear deterrence under the no-first-use doctrine, China is enhancing command and control of nuclear forces, upgrading its nuclear triad, and constructing its early warning and rapid response capabilities. However, with a further destabilising global nuclear order, more normative challenges have been plaguing China’s nuclear modernisation.
The Carnian pluvial episode (Late Triassic): new insights into this important time of global environmental and biological change
Authors: Dal Corso Jacopo , Ruffell Alastair , Preto Nereo
Published: October 2018

In May 2017, in the delightful town of Delmenhorst (Lower Saxony, Germany), the first meeting on the Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE) was hosted by the Hanse-Wissenschaftskolleg, Institute for Advanced Study. This was a milestone event. For the first time researchers from around the world met to discuss this still poorly known episode of early Late Triassic global environmental and biological change. This thematic set originates from discussions at this first meeting, and includes state-of-the-art research on the CPE, with the most recent discoveries on the complex phenomena that happened during this fascinating interval in Earth's history.
Summary of the new stratigraphic guide to the Chalk Group in the UK and Norwegian sectors of the North Sea
Authors: Gradstein Felix M. , Waters Colin N.
Published: October 2018

This brief guide summarizes the updated and unified stratigraphy of the Chalk Group for the UK and Norwegian sectors in the North Sea. The information was presented at the ‘Chalk of the Northern Province’ symposium held in Hull on 12 September 2015. The update rationalizes Chalk Group lithostratigraphy across the North Sea, reducing the need to use unique names for reservoir units, without proper documentation or lack of biostratigraphic and correlative insight.
eLearn Magazine: A retrospective on 2017-2018
Authors: Conceicao Simone C. O. , Samuel Anita
Published: October 2018

eLearn Magazine entered a new period in July 2017. The success of the magazine over this past year has been a team effort. The ultimate goal for this past year was to push the boundaries of eLearning and technology and explore innovations to further the conversation around strategies in eLearning.
The Influence of Drying Method on Volatile Composition and Sensory Profile of Boletus edulis
Authors: Nöfer Joanna , Lech Krzysztof , Figiel Adam , Szumny Antoni , Carbonell-Barrachina Ángel A.
Published: October 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of different drying methods on aroma and sensory profile of Boletus edulis (cepe). The drying methods tested were convective drying (CD), freeze-drying (FD), vacuum microwave drying (VMD), and a combination of convective predrying and vacuum microwave finish-drying (CPD-VMFD). Fresh and dried cepe volatiles, analyzed by SPME and GC-MS, showed the presence of 53 volatile compounds, most of them present in all dried samples but with quantitative variation. The major volatile compounds in fresh and dried cepe were 1-octen-3-ol (3405 µg 100 g−1·db), 3-octanone (429 µg 100 g−1·db), and hexanal (355 µg 100 g−1·db). The results showed that drying of cepe mushrooms caused major losses of aroma compounds; however, the highest content of volatile compounds and the highest intensity of most of the key positive sensory attributes were found in samples after (i) CD at 80°C (3763 µg 100 g−1·db), (ii) CD at 70°C (3478 µg 100 g−1·db), and (iii) CPD at 60°C and VMFD at 480/240 W (2897 µg 100 g−1·db).
Study of the Treatment Effects of Compound Tufuling Granules in Hyperuricemic Rats Using Serum Metabolomics
Authors: Wu Peng , Li Jing , Zhang Xianxian , Zeng Fuling , Liu Yingwan , Sun Weifeng
Published: October 2018

The study aimed to investigate the mechanism of the effect of Compound Tufuling Granules (CTG) to lower the serum uric acid level in a rat model of hyperuricemia. The rat model was established by administering hypoxanthine through oral gavage and potassium oxonate through intraperitoneal injection. Rats were divided into the normal group, model group, CTG group, and allopurinol group. Serum uric acid, creatinine, urea nitrogen, and inflammatory cytokine levels were determined in each group. In the model group, ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry was used to analyze the metabolic profiles and delineate the action mechanism of CTG; in addition, the orthogonal projection method was used to perform latent structure‐discrimination analysis to screen the related metabolites. The results indicated significant differences in the metabolic profiles between the model and normal groups. A total of seven related metabolites were identified through screening in the model group, mainly related to the pathways of bile secretion, pyrimidine, purine, and phenylalanine metabolism, pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis, and pentose and glucuronate interconversions; these related pathways were reversed in the CTG group. In the metabolic networks, uracil and acetyl‐coenzyme A were the nodal molecules. In addition, the test results of the evaluation of serum biochemical and inflammatory factors confirmed that CTG had significant effect in reducing the levels of serum uric acid and protecting renal function. These results confirmed that CTG primarily regulated the recruitment of nodal molecules to achieve anti‐inflammatory effects, reduced uric acid level, and renal protection.
More on Spectral Analysis of Signed Networks
Authors: Yu Guihai , Qu Hui
Published: October 2018

Spectral graph theory plays a key role in analyzing the structure of social (signed) networks. In this paper we continue to study some properties of (normalized) Laplacian matrix of signed networks. Sufficient and necessary conditions for the singularity of Laplacian matrix are given. We determine the correspondence between the balance of signed network and the singularity of its Laplacian matrix. An expression of the determinant of Laplacian matrix is present. The symmetry about 1 of eigenvalues of normalized Laplacian matrix is discussed. We determine that the integer 2 is an eigenvalue of normalized Laplacian matrix if and only if the signed network is balanced and bipartite. Finally an expression of the coefficient of normalized Laplacian characteristic polynomial is present.
Reliability‐Based Fatigue Life Prediction for Complex Structure with Time‐Varying Surrogate Modeling
Authors: Song Lu-Kai , Bai Guang-Chen , Fei Cheng-Wei , Wen Jie
Published: October 2018

To improve the computational efficiency and accuracy of reliability‐based fatigue life prediction for complex structure, a time‐varying particle swarm optimization‐ (PSO‐) based general regression neural network (GRNN) surrogate model (called as TV/PSO‐GRNN) is developed. By integrating the proposed space‐filling Latin hypercube sampling technique and PSO‐GRNN regression function, the mathematical model of TV/PSO‐GRNN is studied. The reliability‐based fatigue life prediction framework is illustrated in respect of the TV/PSO‐GRNN surrogate model. Moreover, the reliability‐based fatigue life prediction of an aircraft turbine blisk under multiphysics interaction is performed to validate the TV/PSO‐GRNN model. We obtain the distributional characteristics, reliability degree, and sensitivity degree of fatigue failure cycle, which are useful for the turbine blisk design. By comparing the direct simulation (FE/FV model), RSM, GRNN, PSO‐GRNN, and TV/PSO‐GRNN, we observe that the TV/PSO‐GRNN surrogate model is promising to perform the reliability‐based fatigue life prediction of the turbine blisk and enhance the computational efficiency while ensuring an acceptable computational accuracy. The efforts of this study offer a useful insight for the reliability‐based design optimization of complex structure.
Random Regret-Minimization Model for Emergency Resource Preallocation at Freeway Accident Black Spots
Authors: Luan Siliang , Yang Qingfang , Wang Wei , Jiang Zhongtai , Xing Ruru , Chu Ruijuan
Published: October 2018

The preallocation of emergency resources is a mechanism increasing preparedness for uncertain traffic accidents under different weather conditions. This paper introduces the concept of accident probability of black spots and an improved accident frequency method to identify accident black spots and obtain the accident probability. At the same time, we propose a three-stage random regret-minimization (RRM) model to minimize the regret value of the attribute of overall response time, cost, and demand, which allocates limited emergency resources to more likely to happen accident spots. Due to the computational complexity of our model, a genetic algorithm is developed to solve a large-scale instance of the problem. A case study focuses on three-year rainy accidents’ data in Weifang, Linyi, and Rizhao of China to test the correctness and validity of the application of the model.
A Network Pharmacology Approach to Uncover the Molecular Mechanisms of Herbal Formula Ban‐Xia‐Xie‐Xin‐Tang
Authors: Yang Ming , Chen Jialei , Xu Liwen , Shi Xiufeng , Zhou Xin , An Rui , Wang Xinhong
Published: October 2018

Ban‐Xia‐Xie‐Xin‐Tang (BXXXT) is a classical formula from Shang‐Han‐Lun which is one of the earliest books of TCM clinical practice. In this work, we investigated the therapeutic mechanisms of BXXXT for the treatment of multiple diseases using a network pharmacology approach. Here three BXXXT representative diseases (colitis, diabetes mellitus, and gastric cancer) were discussed, and we focus on in silico methods that integrate drug‐likeness screening, target prioritizing, and multilayer network extending. A total of 140 core targets and 72 representative compounds were finally identified to elucidate the pharmacology of BXXXT formula. After constructing multilayer networks, a good overlap between BXXXT nodes and disease nodes was observed at each level, and the network‐based proximity analysis shows that the relevance between the formula targets and disease genes was significant according to the shortest path distance (SPD) and a random walk with restart (RWR) based scores for each disease. We found that there were 22 key pathways significantly associated with BXXXT, and the therapeutic effects of BXXXT were likely addressed by regulating a combination of targets in a modular pattern. Furthermore, the synergistic effects among BXXXT herbs were highlighted by elucidating the molecular mechanisms of individual herbs, and the traditional theory of “Jun‐Chen‐Zuo‐Shi” of TCM formula was effectively interpreted from a network perspective. The proposed approach provides an effective strategy to uncover the mechanisms of action and combinatorial rules of BXXXT formula in a holistic manner.
Relationship between Cervical Spine and Skeletal Class II in Subjects with and without Temporomandibular Disorders
Authors: Di Giacomo Paola , Ferrara Valeria , Accivile Ettore , Ferrato Giacomo , Polimeni Antonella , Di Paolo Carlo
Published: October 2018

Aim. To assess changes in the craniocervical structure and in hyoid bone position in skeletal Class II subjects with and without temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Materials and Methods. The cephalometric analysis of 59 subjects with skeletal Class II was evaluated and compared. The measurements considered were ANB as a parameter of Class II and C0-C1 distance, C1-C2 distance, craniocervical angle, and hyoid bone position for the cervical spine analysis. Patients were divided into patients with TMD (group A) and patients without TMD (group B). TMD were evaluated with Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (DC/TMD). Descriptive statistics and Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlation analysis, with p value <0,005, were performed. Results. C0-C1 and C1-C2 distance values and hyoid bone position resulted within the normal range in the majority of patients examined. Craniocervical angle was altered in 33 patients. The reduction of this angle with the increase of the ANB value resulted to be statistically significant in group A, according to Pearson’s correlation index. No other data were statistically significant. Conclusions. The significant relationship between skeletal Class II and cervical spine cannot be highlighted. The alteration of craniocervical angle seems to be mildly present, with backward counterclockwise rotation of the head upon the neck in the sample (groups A and B). The presence of TMD as a key factor of changes in neck posture could explain the different result between the two groups about the relationship between ANB and craniocervical angle. This result should be further analyzed in order to better understand if cervical spine changes could be related to mandibular postural ones in the craniocervical space or to temporomandibular joint retropositioning, more recognizable in Class II with TMD, which could determine functional changes in other structures of this unit; neck posture could be the result of a compensatory/antalgic mechanism in response to TMD.
Effect of Osmotic Pressure on Migration Behavior of nZnO in GCLs
Authors: Yang Ping , Jiang Tao , Zhang Youlong , Li Zhicheng
Published: October 2018

The migration of zinc oxide nanoparticles (nZnO) in geosynthetic clay liners (GCLs) under different osmotic pressures was conducted using a self‐developed geosynthetic clay liner osmometer. The effects of the osmotic pressure on the migration behavior of nZnO in GCLs were analyzed. The results showed that, with an increase of osmotic pressure, the retention rate of nZnO increased greatly, the particle size increased, the stability of the soliquoid declined, GCLs pores were compressed, the infiltration coefficient of GCLs reduced, and the interception effect of GCLs on nZnO particles strengthened. The two‐site model can simulate the migration behavior of nZnO in GCLs very well. The correlativity between the maximum migration distance (Lmax) of nZnO in GCLs and the osmotic pressure was negative.