bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pressure-equalised façade systems: Evaluation of current watertightness test standards used to assess the performance of enclosure components
Authors: Arce Recatalá Maria , García Morales Soledad , Van den Bossche Nathan
Published: October 2019

Watertightness test standards are used to evaluate enclosure components in terms of water penetration resistance. Currently, there is a wide variety of watertightness tests in use for façades elements and wall systems; however, none of them specifically addresses and evaluates the drainage capacity in pressure-equalised façade systems. In addition, recent research has revealed many inconsistencies in the possibility of these test standards to represent all possible conditions that can occur under different operating conditions, varying building configurations and at different locations. As such, the three main variables for water penetration testing (water spray rate, pressure differential and duration of the pressure application) have been called into question. Nonetheless, these studies do not bring up the protocols and other technical specifications incorporated in the test standard procedures. Furthermore, neither are concerns raised about the influence that these other parameters might have on the outcomes of the watertightness test, which is the aim of this research. To this end, the article provides a critical review of current watertightness tests standards from around the world in the first section. Thereafter, a thorough comparison of the information incorporated in the protocols of the test standards has been carried out. The evaluation and discussion of the test parameters and technical specifications incorporated in the tests standards is undertaken based on the state of the art and laboratory experiments of three mock-ups with pressure-equalised façade systems, where the water management capacity of the system is assessed. As a result of this research work, a guideline was prepared for the establishment of test procedures when developing new watertightness standards for pressure-equalised façade systems.
B14 ameliorates bone cancer pain through downregulating spinal interleukin-1β via suppressing neuron JAK2/STAT3 pathway
Authors: Xu Miao , Ni Huadong , Xu Longsheng , Shen Hui , Deng Housheng , Wang Yungong , Yao Ming
Published: October 2019

Curcumin has several pharmacological properties such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective activities. B14 is a curcumin analogue and is considered to be a more potent compound with preserved pharmacodynamic activities. Based on the previous research studies, janus-activated kinase 2 (JAK2)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway plays a remarkable role in inflammation, chronic pain, and even contributes to the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain. Pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β is a downstream factor of JAK2/STAT3 signal transition pathway, which participates in neuron injury and inflammation. We hypothesized that this signal transition pathway played an indispensable role in bone cancer pain. We herein established a bone cancer pain model to monitor the variation of JAK2/STAT3 signal transduction pathway and measured the effect of B14. The results in bone cancer pain model showed that (i) the levels of interleukin-1β were elevated, and the ratios of p-JAK2/JAK2 and p-STAT3/STAT3 were increased; (ii) double immunostaining showed that p-JAK2, p-STAT3, and interleukin-1β were colocalized primarily with neurons, rather than with astrocytes or microglial cells; (iii) B14 injection (intraperitoneally) markedly eased bone cancer pain; (iv) Western blotting showed that B14 injection lowered p-JAK2, p-STAT3, and interleukin-1β levels, meanwhile the ratios of p-JAK2/JAK2 and p-STAT3/STAT3 was reduced; (v) immunofluorescence results also confirmed decreased levels of p-JAK2, p-STAT3, and interleukin-1β in B14 treatment group. These findings suggested that B14 injection attenuated bone cancer pain in rats. This intervention inhibited JAK2/STAT3 cascade activation, downregulating interleukin-1β expression in spinal dorsal horn.
The right of adults to education: A comparative analysis from the Portuguese and Italian policy agenda
Authors: Barros Rosanna , Biasin Chiara
Published: October 2019

The subject of this article is the right of adults to education, with a focus on the critical analysis of education policy. We discuss human rights as a framework for citizenship in two national contexts of Southern Europe with the purpose of underlining key differences and similarities in countries with diverse histories but a similarly high number of low-qualified adults among their population.

In view of the above, this paper provides a detailed historical context for adult education policy in those countries and expounds on how current Portuguese and Italian educational policy agendas have considered the right of adults to education in the context of their democratic regimes.

For critical analysis we use Tomaševski’s theoretical 4A framework, built mainly for school contexts, and apply it to adult education policy. The objective is to understand ways of realizing the right of adults to education by means of policy measures undertaken by governments in those national states. Thus, we employed as an object of analysis the study of availability, accessibility, acceptability and adaptability of adult education and learning against the backdrop of current changes occurring in Europe. This heuristic exercise makes a significant contribution to adult education literature in times of neoliberal trends.
Citizen-led digital policing and democratic norms: The case of self-styled paedophile hunters
Authors: Hadjimatheou Katerina
Published: October 2019

Citizen involvement in the provision of security is often presented as a win–win way to relieve pressure on police resources while building stronger, more responsible and democratically engaged communities. Governments in countries such as the United Kingdom and the Netherlands have adopted a ‘strategy of responsibilisation’ designed to encourage, enable and support citizens to take on tasks otherwise left for police. Yet, this strategy conspicuously ignores the growing number of citizen-led digital policing initiatives which operate independently without the encouragement or guidance of police. This article considers the implications of this trend for democratic norms in policing. It uses the phenomenon of self-styled paedophile hunters – which are now active in countries around the world – as a case study. The article makes comparisons between such initiatives and other, relatively well-theorised informal security providers, such as vigilante groups and civilian policing. It argues that, like vigilantes, citizen-led digital police often challenge democratic principles of transparency, accountability and the rule of law. Yet, like other civilian policing initiatives, they increase empowerment and participation, and rely for their success on the presence of strong and legitimate institutions of justice, to which they ultimately defer. These characteristics present a discreet set of opportunities and challenges for contemporary policing, which this article argues can only be addressed by strategic police engagement.
How Changes in Legally Demanded Forest Restoration Impact Ecosystem Services: A Case Study in the Atlantic Forest, Brazil
Authors: Rosário Victor A. C. , Guimarães João C. , Viani Ricardo A. G.
Published: October 2019

The recent change in Brazilian laws reduced the amount of area that is set aside for native vegetation restoration in rural private properties. However, we lack estimates of its impacts on the provisioning of key ecosystem services at local scales. Therefore, in a microwatershed in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest hot spot, we quantified the impact of the change from the Forest Code (1965) to the Native Vegetation Protection Law in Brazil (2012) on future native forest cover, biomass carbon stocks, and soil loss and sedimentation. We analyzed three scenarios: (a) the land use and cover as of 2016, (b) the Forest Code, 1965, and (c) the Native Vegetation Protection Law, 2012. In each scenario, we modeled soil loss and sedimentation (InVEST, Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation) and calculated the carbon stocks. The 2012 law implementation would increase forest cover (15.6%), decrease soil sedimentation (1.12%) and loss (1.13%), and increase carbon stock (5.4%). However, compared to the Forest Code, it would reduce the area for restoration and the potential for native forest cover growth, increase soil loss and sedimentation potential, and limit increases in carbon stocks at the landscape level. In both restoration scenarios, the potential percent increase in forest cover in the microwatershed owing to the laws is higher than the percent decrease in soil loss and sedimentation. These findings have the potential to elucidate the effect of laws on ecosystem services and be useful to those planning the creation, modification, and implementation of laws for forest restoration in private properties.
Virtual Walking Sensation by Prerecorded Oscillating Optic Flow and Synchronous Foot Vibration
Authors: Kitazaki Michiteru , Hamada Takeo , Yoshiho Katsuya , Kondo Ryota , Amemiya Tomohiro , Hirota Koichi , Ikei Yasushi
Published: October 2019

This article reports the first psychological evidence that the combination of oscillating optic flow and synchronous foot vibration evokes a walking sensation. In this study, we first captured a walker’s first-person-view scenes with footstep timings. Participants observed the naturally oscillating scenes on a head-mounted display with vibrations on their feet and rated walking-related sensations using a Visual Analogue Scale. They perceived stronger sensations of self-motion, walking, leg action, and telepresence from the oscillating visual flow with foot vibrations than with randomized-timing vibrations or without vibrations. The artificial delay of foot vibrations with respect to the scenes diminished the walking-related sensations. These results suggest that the oscillating visual scenes and synchronous foot vibrations are effective for creating virtual walking sensations.
Comparative efficacy of exercise and anti-hypertensive pharmacological interventions in reducing blood pressure in people with hypertension: A network meta-analysis
Authors: Noone Chris , Leahy Joy , Morrissey Eimear C , Newell John , Newell Micheál , Dwyer Christopher P , Murphy Jane , Doyle Frank , Murphy Andrew W , Molloy Gerard J
Published: October 2019

Aims

This analysis aims to estimate the comparative efficacy of anti-hypertensive medications and exercise interventions on systolic and diastolic blood pressure reduction in people with hypertension.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted focusing on randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of exercise interventions and first-line anti-hypertensives where blood pressure reduction was the primary outcome in those with hypertension. Network meta-analyses were conducted to generate estimates of comparative efficacy.

Results

We identified 93 RCTs (N = 32,404, mean age in RCTs: 39–70 years) which compared placebo or usual care with first-line antihypertensives including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, calcium channel blockers and thiazide-like diuretics and exercise interventions including aerobic training and dynamic resistance training. Of these, there were 81 (87%) trials related to medications (n = 31,347, 97%) and 12 (13%) trials related to exercise (n = 1057, 3%). The point estimates suggested that antihypertensive medications were more effective than exercise but there was insufficient evidence to suggest that first-line medications significantly reduced blood pressure to a greater extent than did the exercise interventions. Of the first-line treatments, angiotensin receptor blockers and calcium channel blockers had the highest treatment ranking, while exercise had the second lowest treatment ranking, followed by control conditions.

Conclusion

The current evidence base with a bias towards medication research may partly explain the circumspection around the efficacy of exercise in guidelines and practice. Clinicians may justifiably consider exercise for low risk hypertension patients who confirm a preference for such an approach.
Health literacy is independently and inversely associated with carotid artery plaques and cardiovascular risk
Authors: Lindahl Bernt , Norberg Margareta , Johansson Helene , Lindvall Kristina , Ng Nawi , Nordin Maria , Nordin Steven , Näslund Ulf , Persson Amanda , Vanoli Davide , Schulz Peter J
Published: October 2019

Aims

Health literacy, the degree to which individuals understand and act upon health information, may have a pivotal role in the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD), with low health literacy potentially explaining poorer adherence to prevention guidelines. We investigated the associations between health literacy, ultrasound-detected carotid atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods

Baseline data (cross-sectional analysis) from a randomized controlled trial, integrated within the Västerbotten Intervention Program, Northern Sweden, was used. We included 3459 individuals, aged 40 or 50 years with ≥1 conventional risk factor or aged 60 years old. The participants underwent clinical examination, blood sampling, carotid ultrasound assessment of intima-media wall thickness (CIMT) and plaque formation, and answered a questionnaire on health literacy – the Brief Health Literacy Screen. The European Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation and Framingham Risk Score were calculated.

Results

About 20% of the participants had low health literacy. Low health literacy was independently associated with the presence of ultrasound-detected carotid artery plaques after adjustment for age and education, odds ratio (95% confidence interval) 1.54 (1.28–1.85), demonstrating a similar level of risk as for smoking. Health literacy was associated with CIMT in men. Low health literacy was associated with higher CVD risk scores. Sensitivity analyses with low health literacy set to 9% or 30% of the study sample, respectively, yielded essentially the same results.

Conclusions

Low health literacy was independently associated with carotid artery plaques and a high level of CVD risk scores. Presenting health information in a fashion that is understood by all patients may improve preventive efforts.
Predictors and prognosis of delirium among older subjects in cardiac intensive care unit: focus on potentially preventable forms
Authors: Mossello Enrico , Baroncini Caterina , Pecorella Laura , Giulietti Chiara , Chiti Maurizio , Caldi Francesca , Cavallini Maria Chiara , Simoni David , Baldasseroni Samuele , Fumagalli Stefano , Valoti Paolo , Stroppa Stefano , Parenti Katia , Ungar Andrea , Masotti Giulio , Marchionni Niccolò , Bari Mauro Di
Published: October 2019

Background:

Delirium is a common and potentially preventable condition in older individuals admitted to acute and intensive care wards, associated with negative prognostic effects. Its clinical relevance is being increasingly recognised also in cardiology settings. The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence, incidence, predictors and prognostic role of delirium in older individuals admitted to two cardiology intensive care units.

Methods:

All patients aged over 65 years consecutively admitted to the two participating cardiology intensive care units were enrolled. Assessment on admission included acute physiological derangement (modified rapid emergency medicine score, REMS), chronic comorbidity, premorbid disability and dementia. The Confusion Assessment Method–Intensive Care Unit was applied daily for delirium detection.

Results:

Of 497 patients (40% women, mean age 79 years), 18% had delirium over the entire cardiology intensive care unit course, half of whom more than 24 hours after admission (incident delirium). Advanced age, a main diagnosis of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction or acute respiratory failure, modified REMS, comorbidity and dementia were independent predictors of delirium. Adjusting for patient’s features on admission, incident delirium was predicted by invasive procedures (insertion of peripheral arterial catheter, urinary catheter, central venous catheter, naso-gastric tube and intra-aortic balloon pump). In a logistic regression model, delirium was an independent predictor of inhospital mortality (odds ratio 3.18, 95% confidence interval 1.02, 9.93).

Conclusions:

Eighteen per cent of older cardiology intensive care unit patients had delirium, with half of the cases being incident, thus potentially preventable. Invasive procedures were independently associated with incident delirium. Delirium was an independent predictor of inhospital mortality. Awareness of delirium should be increased in the cardiology intensive care unit setting and prevention studies are warranted.
The feasibility and acceptability of using a novel wrist worn cueing device to self-manage drooling problems in people with Parkinson’s disease: A pilot study
Authors: McNaney Roisin , Miller Nick , Vines John , Olivier Patrick , Ladha Karim , Jackson Daniel , Walker Richard
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Daytime drooling is experienced by around 50% of Parkinson’s patients, who fail to swallow saliva in sufficient volume or regularity, despite normal production. This research explored the feasibility and acceptability of using a cueing device, to improve drooling.

Methods

During a four-week intervention, 28 participants were asked to use a cueing device for 1 h per day. During this time, the device vibrated once-per-minute, reminding the participant to swallow their saliva. A daily diary was used to collect self-report around swallowing severity, frequency, and duration. This was filled out by participants for one week before, four weeks during and for one week immediately after intervention. Diaries were also collected for one week during a follow up, carried out four weeks after intervention finished.

Results

Participants self-reported benefits in drooling severity ( p = 0.031), frequency ( p ≤ 0.001), and duration ( p = 0.001) after using the device. Improvements were maintained at follow up. Twenty-two participants explicitly reported a positive benefit to their drooling during exit interview. All felt the intervention and device were acceptable and usable.

Conclusions

Using a cueing device for one month had perceived benefit to drooling severity, frequency and duration in patients with Parkinson’s. Participants accepted the device and treatment protocol.
Japan’s 2019 upper house election: Solidifying Abe, the LDP, and return to a one-party dominant political system
Authors: Jain Purnendra
Published: October 2019

Japan’s upper house, the House of Councillors, is a less powerful body than the House of Representatives, the lower house of the national Diet. Yet, electoral results of the upper house can have a significant impact on the government of the day, both for legislative purposes and for judging the credibility of the ruling party and its leader. This article analyses the July 2019 election and its likely impact on the Abe administration, and implications for Japan’s parliamentary democracy and party politics. The article argues that opposition forces are highly fragmented and weak, sustaining the LDP’s dominance in Japanese politics. Such a political landscape is welcomed by the ruling party and its leader, but continuing to entrench the hold on national governance by one dominant party is unhealthy for Japanese democracy.
Aberrant left brachiocephalic vein is a contraindication for anterior cervicothoracic approach
Authors: Ong Edwin Kean Siong , Wong Tat Seng , Chung Weng Hong , Chiu Chee Kidd , Saw Aik , Hasan Mohd Shahnaz , Chan Chris Yin Wei , Kwan Mun Keong
Published: October 2019

Aberrant left brachiocephalic vein is a rare condition. Its occurrence in patients requiring anterior cervicothoracic approach for severe kyphoscoliosis has not been described. A 16-year-old male with neurofibromatosis and severe upper thoracic kyphoscoliosis presented to us with curve progression. Halo gravity traction was attempted but failed to achieve significant correction. Subsequently, he underwent halo-pelvic traction and later Posterior Spinal Fusion (PSF) from C2 to T10. Second-stage anterior cervicothoracic approach with anterior fibula strut grafting was planned; however, preoperative computed tomography angiography revealed an aberrant left brachiocephalic vein with an anomalous retrotracheal and retroesophageal course, directly anterior to the T5/T6 vertebrae (planned anchor site for fibula strut graft) before draining into superior vena cava. Therefore, surgery was abandoned due to the risks associated with this anomaly. Aberrant left brachiocephalic vein is rare, the presence of which could be a contraindication for anterior cervicothoracic approach. Assessment of the anterior neurovascular structures is crucial in preoperative planning.
Semi-Recumbent Vibration Exercise in Older Adults: A Pilot Study of Methodology, Feasibility, and Safety
Authors: Taani Murad H. , Siglinsky Ellen , Libber Jessie , Krueger Diane , Binkley Neil , Kovach Christine R. , Buehring Bjoern
Published: October 2019

Objectives:

Older adults with impaired physical function are at risk for further functional decline in part due to limited ability to engage in regular exercise. Effective approaches to exercise in this vulnerable population are needed to improve functional capacity and optimize independence.

Methods:

Thirty-two residential care apartment complex (RCAC) residents, age ≥70, with low short physical performance battery (SPPB) scores were recruited and randomly assigned to a crossover-design study exploring feasibility and safety of semi-recumbent vibration exercise in older adults living in one RCAC. The primary outcomes were retention and adherence rates and adverse events.

Results:

The retention rate was 78%. Adherence rate was 79.7% and 78.6% during the vibration and control training sessions, respectively. Thirty-eight adverse events (AEs) occurred. Mild muscle soreness and knee pain were the only AEs related to vibration exercise. No serious adverse events (SAEs) were study-related. Participants were able to increase training intensity and load and rated the training enjoyable.

Conclusion:

Semi-recumbent vibration exercise was feasible, well tolerated, and safe in RCAC residents with reduced physical function. Future studies need to examine the effect of this type of exercise on physical function, mobility, falls, and quality of life.
Generation and function of progenitor T cells from StemRegenin-1–expanded CD34+ human hematopoietic progenitor cells
Authors: Singh Jastaranpreet , Chen Edward L. Y. , Xing Yan , Stefanski Heather E. , Blazar Bruce R. , Zúñiga-Pflücker Juan Carlos
Published: October 2019

Key Points

CD34+CD7+ as well as CD34−CD7+ cells from SR1-expanded CD34+ HSPCs are effective thymus-reconstituting cells in vivo. CD7+ cells derived from SR1-expanded CD34+ HSPCs generate functional and polyclonal T-cell repertoires in vivo.
Occurrence, thromboembolic risk, and mortality in Danish patients with cold agglutinin disease
Authors: Bylsma Lauren C. , Gulbech Ording Anne , Rosenthal Adam , Öztürk Buket , Fryzek Jon P. , Arias Jaime Morales , Röth Alexander , Berentsen Sigbjørn
Published: October 2019

Key Points

This is the first study to compare thromboembolism and mortality risk in CAD against a general population cohort. Patients with CAD were at a significantly increased risk of death, especially during the first 5 years after diagnosis.
Viscoelastic creep behavior of surface- and inner-layers of sugi boxed-heart timber under various temperatures
Authors: Hermawan Andi , Fujimoto Noboru
Published: October 2019

This study was conducted to investigate the rheological behavior of sugi boxed-heart timber under constant moisture content (MC) using a cantilever creep test. The focus of the study was the effect of temperature on viscoelastic creep behavior of surface- and inner-layer specimens of the timber. The specimens with dimensions of 75 mm in length, 25 mm wide, and 3 mm thick were prepared. A cantilever creep test with an effective span of 40 mm was conducted under a constant temperature of 20, 65, 80, and 95 °C. The equilibrium moisture content (EMC) of the specimens was set to around 12% at each temperature. A load representing 20% of rupture load of the specimens at each temperature was applied to their free-end and strain gauges were bonded at the fourth span (10 mm) on the upper and bottom surfaces of the specimens. Loading and unloading duration were set for 300 and 180 min, respectively, and a four-element Burgers model was used to model the creep behavior of the timber. It was found that temperature had significant effects on the creep properties of the timber. The surface strain and creep compliance of the surface- and inner-layer specimens tended to increase as the temperature increased. Creep compliance of the surface-layer specimen was higher than that of the inner-layer specimen at each temperature. Fitting the experimental data with the Burgers model used in this study shows good agreement and it was found that elastic (instantaneous) and viscoelastic (delayed) creep compliance of all the specimens tended to increase as the temperature increased. On the other hand, the viscosity of the dashpot element of both the Maxwell and the Kelvin unit tended to decrease as the temperature increased. Although different in magnitude, the creep-recovery compliance parameters had the same tendency as the creep compliance parameters.
Vocabulary comprehension in adults with fragile X syndrome (FXS)
Authors: Hoffmann Anne , Krause Sue Ellen , Wuu Joanne , Leurgans Sue , Guter Stephen J. , Block Sandra S. , Salt Jeff , Cook Edwin , Maino Dominick M. , Berry-Kravis Elizabeth
Published: October 2019

Background

Receptive and expressive vocabulary in adult and adolescent males with fragile X syndrome (FXS) have been shown as significantly lower than their chronological age; however, receptive vocabulary has been considered a strength relative to mental age. This has not been formally examined, however, and data are needed to compare receptive vocabulary with other language skills and with mental age in individuals with FXS. This is especially important as vocabulary measures are sometimes used as a proxy to estimate language ability.

Methods

This preliminary study examined receptive vocabulary, global language, and cognitive skills in 42 adults (33 males and 9 females) with FXS as a portion of the baseline evaluation prior to randomization in a clinical trial of ampakine CX516. The battery of standardized tests addressed receptive vocabulary with the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test, Third Edition (PPVT-III), receptive and expressive language (termed henceforth as global language) via the Preschool Language Scale, Fourth Edition or the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals, Third Edition, and non-verbal cognition via the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales, Fourth Edition (SB-IV).

Results

Results showed (1) significantly higher receptive vocabulary than global language, (2) significantly better receptive vocabulary than non-verbal cognition, (3) equivalent non-verbal cognition and global language, and (4) severity of autism symptomatology was not correlated to receptive vocabulary or global language once non-verbal cognition was removed as factor. The scores from the PPVT-III did not represent the global language skills in our sample of adults with FXS.

Conclusions

Findings from this investigation strongly suggest that the PPVT-III should not be used as a screening tool for language levels or cognitive function in clinical studies since the scores from the PPVT-III were not representative of global language or non-verbal cognitive skills in adults with intellectual disabilities. This finding is critical in order to understand how to evaluate, as well as to treat, language in individuals with FXS. Development of efficient and appropriate tools to measure language, cognition, and behavior in individuals with FXS is essential.
Genome-wide characterization and expression analysis of the HD-Zip gene family in response to drought and salinity stresses in sesame
Authors: Wei Mengyuan , Liu Aili , Zhang Yujuan , Zhou Yong , Li Donghua , Dossa Komivi , Zhou Rong , Zhang Xiurong , You Jun
Published: October 2019

Background

The homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD-Zip) gene family is one of the plant-specific transcription factor families, involved in plant development, growth, and in the response to diverse stresses. However, comprehensive analysis of the HD-Zip genes, especially those involved in response to drought and salinity stresses is lacking in sesame (Sesamum indicumL.), an important oil crop in tropical and subtropical areas.

Results

In this study, 45 HD-Zip genes were identified in sesame, and denominated as SiHDZ01-SiHDZ45. Members of SiHDZ family were classified into four groups (HD-Zip I-IV) based on the phylogenetic relationship ofArabidopsisHD-Zip proteins, which was further supported by the analysis of their conserved motifs and gene structures. Expression analyses ofSiHDZgenes based on transcriptome data showed that the expression patterns of these genes were varied in different tissues. Additionally, we showed that at least 75% of theSiHDZgenes were differentially expressed in responses to drought and salinity treatments, and highlighted the important role of HD-Zip I and II genes in stress responses in sesame.

Conclusions

This study provides important information for functional characterization of stress-responsive HD-Zip genes and may contribute to the better understanding of the molecular basis of stress tolerance in sesame.
Whole-genome DNA similarity and population structure of Plasmodiophora brassicae strains from Canada
Authors: Sedaghatkish Afsaneh , Gossen Bruce D. , Yu Fengqun , Torkamaneh Davoud , McDonald Mary Ruth
Published: October 2019

Background

Clubroot is an important disease of brassica crops world-wide. The causal agent,Plasmodiophora brassicae,has been present in Canada for over a century but was first identified on canola (Brassica napus) in Alberta, Canada in 2003. Genetic resistance to clubroot in an adapted canola cultivar has been available since 2009, but resistance breakdown was detected in 2013 and new pathotypes are increasing rapidly. Information on genetic similarity among pathogen populations across Canada could be useful in estimating the genetic variation in pathogen populations, predicting the effect of subsequent selection pressure on changes in the pathogen population over time, and even in identifying the origin of the initial pathogen introduction to canola in Alberta.

Results

The genomic sequences of 43 strains (34 field collections, 9 single-spore isolates) ofP. brassicaefrom Canada, the United States, and China clustered into five clades based on SNP similarity. The strains from Canada separated into four clades, with two containing mostly strains from the Prairies (provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba) and two that were mostly from the rest of Canada or the USA. Several strains from China formed a separate clade. More than one pathotype and host were present in all four Canadian clades. The initial pathotypes from canola on the Prairies clustered separately from the pathotypes on canola that could overcome resistance to the initial pathotypes. Similarly, at one site in central Canada where resistance had broken down, about half of the genes differed (based on SNPs) between strains before and after the breakdown.

Conclusion

Clustering based on genome-wide DNA sequencing demonstrated that the initial pathotypes on canola on the Prairies clustered separately from the new virulent pathotypes on the Prairies. Analysis indicated that these ‘new’ pathotypes were likely present in the pathogen population at very low frequency, maintained through balancing selection, and increased rapidly in response to selection from repeated exposure to host resistance.
Characterization of Salmonella Dublin isolated from bovine and human hosts
Authors: Paudyal Narayan , Pan Hang , Elbediwi Mohammed , Zhou Xiao , Peng Xianqi , Li Xiaoliang , Fang Weihuan , Yue Min
Published: October 2019

Background

Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Dublin (S. Dublin), a cattle adapted serovar causes enteritis, and systemic disease in bovines. The invasive index of this serovar far exceeds that of the other serovars and human infections often present as fatal or highly resistant infections. In this, observational study, phenotypic properties of human and bovine-derived isolates of S. Dublin along with antibiogram of common antimicrobials were evaluated. The multiplex PCR confirmed isolates were genotyped using 7-gene legacy MLST. MIC assay was done by broth microdilution method. Previously published protocols were used to assess the motility, biofilm formation and morphotype. Vi antigen was agglutinated using commercial antiserum. Caenorhabditis elegans infection model was used to evaluate the virulence potiential. Phenotyping experiments were done in duplicates while virulence assay was done in triplicates. Whole-genome sequencing was used to predict the genes responsible for acquired resistance and a genotype-phenotype comparison was made.

Results

We evaluated 96 bovine and 10 human isolates in this study. All the isolates belonged to ST10 in eBG53 and were negative for Vi-antigen. The swarming motility, biofilm formation and morphotype were variable in the isolates of both groups. Resistance to sulfamethoxazole, ampicillin, chloramphenicol, tetracycline was > 90% in animal isolates whereas resistance to sulfamethoxazole was > 70% in human isolates. MDR was also higher in animal isolates. Human isolates were significantly (P < 0.0001) more virulent than animal isolates on C. elegans infection model. The genomic comparison based on the core SNPs showed a high degree of homogeneity between the isolates. The carriage of IncA/C2 plasmid was seen as a typical feature of isolates from the bovine hosts.

Conclusion

Human isolates showed more diversity in the phenotypic assays. Animal isolates showed a higher degree of antimicrobial resistance with greater MDR but human isolates formed more biofilm and had greater swarming motility as well as increased virulence to the nematode C. elegans. The carriage of IncA/C2 plasmid could contribute to the distinguishing feature of the bovine isolates. The tandem use of genotypic-phenotypic assays improves the understanding of diversity and differential behaviour of the same serovar from unrelated host sources.
Incorporating adjustments for variability in control group response rates in network meta-analysis: a case study of biologics for rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Cameron Chris , Varu Abhishek , Lau Arthur , Gharaibeh Mahdi , Paulino Marcelo , Rogoza Raina
Published: October 2019

Background

The importance of adjusting for cross-study heterogeneity in control group response rates when conducting network meta-analyses (NMA) was demonstrated using a case study involving a comparison of biologics for the treatment of moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods

Bayesian NMAs were conducted for American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 50 treatment response based upon a set of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) identified by a recently completed systematic review of the literature. In addition to the performance of an unadjusted NMA, a model adjusting for cross-study heterogeneity of control group response rates using meta-regression was fit to the data. Model fit was evaluated, and findings from both analyses were compared with regard to clinical interpretations.

Results

ACR 50 response data from a total of 51 RCTs and 16,223 patients were analyzed. Inspection of cross-study variability in control group response rates identified considerable differences between studies. NMA incorporating adjustment for this variability was associated with an average change of 38.1% in the magnitude of the ORs between treatment comparisons, and over 64% of the odds ratio changed by 15% or more. Important changes in the clinical interpretations drawn from treatment comparisons were identified with this improved modeling approach.

Conclusions

In comparing biologics for moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis, failure to adjust for cross-trial differences in the control arm response rates in NMA can lead to biased estimates of comparative efficacy between treatments.
A randomized controlled efficacy study of the Medido medication dispenser in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Hannink K. , ter Brake L. , Oonk N.G.M. , Wertenbroek A.A. , Piek M. , Vree-Egberts L. , Faber M.J. , van der Palen J. , Dorresteijn L.D.
Published: October 2019

Background

Complex medication schedules in Parkinson’s disease (PD) result in lower therapy adherence, which contributes to suboptimal therapy and clinical deterioration. Medication reminder systems might improve therapy adherence and subsequently improve symptoms of PD. This randomized controlled study assessed the effect of the electronic medication dispenser Medido on physical disability in PD, as a proxy for changes in therapy adherence.x

Methods

Eighty-seven patients were randomized into the Medido group or control group. The primary outcome of physical disability was measured by the AMC Linear Disability Scale (ALDS). Secondary outcomes were quality of life (QoL) (PDQ-39), health status (EQ5D-5L, VAS), non-motor symptoms (NMS-Quest), and QoL of the caregiver (PDQ-carer). Measurements were performed at baseline, and after 3 and 6 months follow-up.

Results

When using the Medido, a non-significant improvement of 3.0 points (95% CI -5.6;11.6) was seen in ALDS. The exploratory subgroup Hoehn & Yahr classification (H&Y) > 2.5 improved significantly on ALDS with 14.7 points (95% CI -28.5;-0.9, p = 0.029 for group x time interaction). QoL deteriorated with 1.0 point in PDQ-39 (p = 0.01 for group x time interaction) in favor of the control group. Non-significant differences were observed for VAS (0.4 points, p = 0.057) and NMS-Quest (1.3 points, p = 0.095) in favor of the Medido group. No changes over time were observed in EQ5D-5L and PDQ-carer.

Conclusions

Based on these data, no firm conclusion can be drawn, but use of the Medido medication dispenser may result in a clinical improvement of physical disability and seems particularly appropriate for more severe patients.

Trial registration

NTR3917. Registered 19 March 2013.
Correction to: Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in pediatric stool samples using TruTip technology
Authors: Mesman Annelies W. , Soto Martin , Coit Julia , Calderon Roger , Aliaga Juan , Pollock Nira R. , Mendoza Milagros , Mestanza Francisco M. , Mendoza Carlos J. , Murray Megan B. , Lecca Leonid , Holmberg Rebecca , Franke Molly F.
Published: October 2019

Following publication of the original article [1]. The authors reported that there is a mistake in Fig. 1: the number of patients in the control group its 449 patients, instead of 455.
Cutaneous leishmaniasis a neglected tropical disease: community knowledge, attitude and practices in an endemic area, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Tamiru Helina Fikre , Mashalla Yohana James , Mohammed Rezika , Tshweneagae Gloria Thupayagale
Published: October 2019

Background

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is one of the neglected tropical diseases in the Ethiopian highlands and studies on assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice of the community in endemic areas are scanty. The study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude towards cutaneous leishmaniasis and treatment seeking practices in people living in the endemic highlands areas in the Northwest, Ethiopia and to provide evidence-based information to guide development of appropriate interventions to reduce the impact of cutaneous leishmaniasis on communities.

Methods

Quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted in cutaneous leishmaniasis endemic districts (woredas) using a semi structured questionnaire. Households were randomly selected according to probability proportional to size of households in each enumeration area. Systematic random sampling of eligible households was based on the number of households recorded during listing of households. Descriptive statistics was used to describe numerical data, organise and summarise the data in a manner that gave meaning to the numerical form. Frequency tables were used to show descriptive analysis and regression analysis was used to determine correlation between variables.

Results

Majority of respondents 321(78.7%) lived in rural areas, age ranged between 18 and 85 years and most were farmers. Illiteracy was high (47.6%) among respondents and majority 358(87.8%) had seen patients with CL. Less than quarter (21.6%) had heard about sand flies and knowledge on the peak transmission period was low (46.3%). About 192 (47.1%) of the respondents indicated disfiguring lesions were the major clinical presentations, less than half 55(27.5%) of urban residents believed CL was treatable compared to 145(72.5%) of rural residents (P < 0.001). Traditional medicines were indicated as best treatment option by 209(51.2%) compared to 114(27.9%) for modern treatment. Major factors influencing treatment options included accessibility to treatment facilities, distance and short duration of treatment. Participants expressed negative experiential attitude and perceived control towards modern treatment because of inaccessibility and distance from where modern treatment is provided.

Conclusion

Priority should be given to primary prevention and appropriate awareness campaigns on lesion recognition. Information on modern treatment should be intensified.
Double- versus single-balloon catheters for labour induction and cervical ripening: a meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Xiyao , Wang Yu , Zhang Fan , Zhong Xiaoni , Ou Rong , Luo Xin , Qi Hongbo
Published: October 2019

Background

The induction of labour is an increasingly common procedure in the obstetrics field. Various methods have been used to induce labour, among which balloon catheters play an important role. Whether the specifically designed double-balloon catheter is better than the single-balloon device in terms of efficacy, efficiency, safety and patient satisfaction remains controversial. Identifying even small differences between these two devices could be useful to guide clinical practices, to further explore their mechanisms, and to promote a better understanding of the optimal methods for inducing labour.

Methods

Using the population, intervention, comparison, outcomes and study designs (PICOS) principle, we searched the PubMed, EMBASE, OVID, SCI, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrial.gov, and CDSR databases to identify relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs) from inception through February 14, 2018. The primary outcome was the caesarean delivery rate, and the secondary outcomes focused on efficacy, efficiency, safety, and patient satisfaction. The relative risks or mean differences, including their 95% confidence intervals, were calculated using fixed-effects or random-effects models. All statistical analyses were completed with RevMan version 5.3.

Results

From a total of 1326 articles, 7 RCTs involving 1159 women were included. There were no significant differences in primary outcomes (RR, 0.88 [0.65, 1.2]; p-value, 0.43) or secondary outcomes identified between single- and double-balloon catheters. However, heterogeneity existed for some aspects.

Conclusion

Both kinds of balloon catheter have similar levels of efficacy, efficiency, safety and patient satisfaction; however, the single-balloon method is considered to be more cost-effective.
The change in haemoglobin concentration between the first and third trimesters of pregnancy: a population study
Authors: Churchill David , Nair Manisha , Stanworth Simon J. , Knight Marian
Published: October 2019

Background

The physiological fall in haemoglobin concentration from the 1st to the 3rd trimester of pregnancy is often quoted as 5 g/L. However, other studies have suggested varying levels of fall between 8 and 13 g/L. We evaluated the change in haemoglobin concentration between the 1st and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy in a multi-ethnic population of pregnant women.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis of 7054 women with singleton pregnancies, giving birth during 2013–15 in a single urban maternity unit in England.

We calculated the changes in haemoglobin concentration from 1st to 3rd trimester using the first trimester haemoglobin as the reference point. The population was stratified into sub-groups to explore any differences that existed within the population.

Results

In general the fall in haemoglobin concentration was in the order of 14 g/L or 11% of the first trimester value. This fall was consistent for the majority of sub-groups of the population. The fall was lower (7.7%) in the most deprived section of the population, IMD1, but it increased to 11.7% when we restricted that sub-group to pregnant women without health problems during the index pregnancy. Conversely, there was an increase in haemoglobin of 10.2% in women whose first trimester haemoglobin concentration was in the lowest 5% of the total study population. The population fall in haemoglobin was 10.2 g/L (7.8%), after excluding cases above the 95th and below the 5th centiles, and women with a medical and/or obstetric disorder during the pregnancy.

Conclusion

The fall in haemoglobin during pregnancy is in the order of 14 g/L or 11% of the first trimester level. This is 2 to 3 times higher than suggested by some guidelines and higher than previously published work. The results challenge the current accepted thresholds for practice, and have broader implications for diagnosis and managment of antenatal anaemia.

Tweetable abstract

Fall in haemoglobin across pregnancy is around 14 g/L (11%) and significantly higher than previously stated in the pregnant population. This poses questions over currently accepted thresholds for anaemia in pregnancy.
Intimate partner violence identified through routine antenatal screening and maternal and perinatal health outcomes
Authors: Chaves Karina , Eastwood John , Ogbo Felix A. , Hendry Alexandra , Jalaludin Bin , Khanlari Sarah , Page Andrew
Published: October 2019

Background

This study investigated the association between intimate partner violence (IPV) identified on routine prenatal screening and perinatal outcomes for mother and infant.

Methods

Routinely collected perinatal data for a cohort of all women and their infants born in public health facilities in Sydney (Australia) over the period 2014–2016 (N = 52,509) were analysed to investigate the risk of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes associated with a history of IPV. The association between an affirmative response on prenatal IPV screening and low birth weight (LBW) < 2.5 kg, preterm birth < 37 weeks, breastfeeding indicators and postnatal depressive symptoms (PND) was investigated in a series of logistic regression models.

Results

IPV was associated with an increased risk of PND (OR = 2.53, 95% CI 1.76–3.63), not breastfeeding at birth (OR = 1.65, 95% CI 1.30–2.09), non-exclusive breastfeeding at discharge (OR = 1.66, 95% CI 1.33–2.07) and first post-natal visit (OR = 1.54, 95% CI 1.24–1.91). Self-reported fear of a partner was strongly associated with an increased risk of PND (OR = 3.53, 95% CI 2.50–5.00), and also LBW (OR = 1.58, 95% CI 1.12–2.22), preterm birth (OR = 1.38, 95% CI 1.08–1.76), lack of early initiation of breastfeeding (OR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.28–2.17), non-exclusive breastfeeding at discharge from hospital (OR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.24–2.06) and at the first post-natal visit (OR = 1.27, 95% CI 0.99–3.04).

Conclusions

IPV reported at the time of pregnancy was associated with adverse infant and maternal health outcomes. Although women may be disinclined to report IPV during pregnancy, universal, routine antenatal assessment for IPV is essential for early identification and appropriate management to improve maternal and newborn health.