bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nelder–Mead Optimization of Elastic Metamaterials via Machine-Learning-Aided Surrogate Modeling
Authors: Dong Jiaqi , Qin Qing-Hua , Xiao Yi
Published: January 2020

One of the fundamental challenges of structural optimization of elastic metamaterials (EMMs) with complex geometry lies within the high consumption of computational power associated with finite element analysis (FEA) simulations, which often render the numerical solution an ineffective and costly attempt. Additionally, due to the inherent mesh dependence of the FEA method, minuscule geometry features, which often arise during optimization, demand very fine elements, resulting in enormously high time consumption, especially when repetitive solutions are needed for objective function validations. In this study, we developed a surrogate modeling algorithm to reduce computational time in structural optimization of EMMs. The surrogate model was constructed based on a multilayer feedforward artificial neural network (ANN) architecture, trained with machine learning techniques and optimized through a genetic algorithm (GA) program to improve its accuracy in predicting the location and width of the primary elastic band gap. With the trained and optimized ANN model at the core, a Nelder–Mead (NM) algorithm was established and its performance inspected in comparison to the traditional FEA method. The ANN-NM model shows remarkable accuracy in predicting the band gap width and impressive reduction in the time consumption.
A Markov-switching predator–prey model with Allee effect for preys
Authors: Guo Xiaoxia , Guo Zhiming
Published: January 2020

This paper concerns with a Markov-switching predator–prey model with Allee effect for preys. The conditions under which extinction of predator and prey populations occur have been established. Sufficient conditions are also given for persistence and global attractivity in mean. In addition, stability in the distribution of the system under consideration is derived under some assumptions. Finally, numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate theoretical results.
Bifurcations and chaos control in a discrete-time biological model
Authors: Khan A. Q. , Khalique T.
Published: January 2020

In this paper, bifurcations and chaos control in a discrete-time Lotka–Volterra predator–prey model have been studied in quadrant-[Formula: see text]. It is shown that for all parametric values, model has boundary equilibria: [Formula: see text], and the unique positive equilibrium point: [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text]. By Linearization method, we explored the local dynamics along with different topological classifications about equilibria. We also explored the boundedness of positive solution, global dynamics, and existence of prime-period and periodic points of the model. It is explored that flip bifurcation occurs about boundary equilibria: [Formula: see text], and also there exists a flip bifurcation when parameters of the discrete-time model vary in a small neighborhood of [Formula: see text]. Further, it is also explored that about [Formula: see text] the model undergoes a N–S bifurcation, and meanwhile a stable close invariant curves appears. From the perspective of biology, these curves imply that between predator and prey populations, there exist periodic or quasi-periodic oscillations. Some simulations are presented to illustrate not only main results but also reveals the complex dynamics such as the orbits of period-2,3,13,15,17 and 23. The Maximum Lyapunov exponents as well as fractal dimension are computed numerically to justify the chaotic behaviors in the model. Finally, feedback control method is applied to stabilize chaos existing in the model.
Covering properties defined by preopen sets
Authors: Tyagi Brij K. , Singh Sumit , Bhardwaj Manoj
Published: January 2020

In this paper, we study some covering properties in topological spaces defined by preopen sets. We introduce and investigate the properties of the pre-Menger property, the almost pre-Menger property and their star versions. It is shown that the pre-Menger and the semi-Menger [Covering properties defined by semi-open sets, J. Nonlinear Sci. Appl. 9 (2016) 4388–4398] are independent properties.
Non-Equilibrium Green’s Function Modeling of the Transport Characteristics of Magnetic Tunnel Junctions Containing Anderson Impurities
Authors: Harikumar Parvathy , Jaya S. Mathi
Published: January 2020

A nonequilibrium Green’s function (NEGF) formulation to study the transport characteristics of magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs) that contains impurities at the barrier region and many-body interaction at the electrode region is presented. The formulation makes use of the already developed NEGF method for MTJs without any impurities and the impurity Green’s function is obtained using Haldane’s approach that explicitly takes into account the on-site Coulomb interaction ([Formula: see text]) of the impurity. The formulation is used to obtain the spin-dependent tunnel current of model MTJs as a function of the applied bias for different values of [Formula: see text] corresponding to both the parallel and antiparallel configuration of the end electrodes of the MTJ. The tunnel currents are used to obtain the tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) of the MTJ and we observed from our study that the TMR is strongly influenced by the impurities. The TMR is found to be reduced compared to that of the MTJ without impurities and the bias dependence of the TMR is found to be strongly influenced by [Formula: see text]. Our studies revealed that the MTJ can exhibit almost completely spin polarized current at certain values of [Formula: see text].
Efficacy Comparison of Hyaluronic Acid and Corticosteroid Injection in Treatment of Trigger Digits: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kanchanathepsak Thepparat , Pichyangkul Picharn , Suppaphol Sorasak , Watcharananan Ittirat , Tuntiyatorn Panithan , Tawonsawatruk Tulyapruek
Published: January 2020

Background: Although the current nonsurgical treatment for trigger digits is corticosteroid (CS) injection, it often comes with adverse effects that may cause some limitations. Currently, Hyaluronic acid (HA) has been successfully used in tendinopathy and may be used in stenosing tenosynovitis. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of ultrasound-guided injection between the HA and CS in trigger digits treatment.

Methods: Double-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted. Fifty patients with 66 trigger digits were randomly assigned into an intervention group (1 ml of low-molecular weight HA) and a control group (1 ml of 10mg/ml triamcinolone acetate). The ultrasound-guided injection and local anesthesia (0.5 ml of 1% lidocaine without adrenaline) were used. The Quinnell grading, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score of pain, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and complications were collected at 1-, 3-and 6-month follow-up.

Results: The mean age of HA group (33 digits) and CS group (33 digits) were 58.3 years and 54.7 years respectively. Nine patients were loss of follow-up (7 in HA group and 2 in CS group). The Quinnell grades have shown an improvement in both group. The CS group had a significant better improvement at 1-month (p-value < 0.001) and there was no significant difference at 3-and 6-month follow-up between the two groups. The median of VAS and DASH score were significantly improved by time in both groups (p-value < 0.01). The CS group showed a better significant improvement in early period of follow-up (p-value < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in the last follow-up.

Conclusions: HA and CS injection has a comparable therapeutic effect in treatment of trigger digits. However, CS injection has higher efficacy of pain and inflammation reduction in the early phase of the disease.
Real-Time Modeling and Correction of Sensor Inputs and Outputs for Increased Accuracy and Reliability
Authors: Brown Michael A. , Davis Brian K. , Miller Jerin R. , Scheffler Towner B. , Sexton R. Kevin
Published: January 2020

Mathematical modeling was employed for automatic, real-time interrogation and correction of amperometric electrochemical gas sensors (AES) deployed in instruments for industrial hygiene applications. The interrogation involved two steps which were analyzed using various mathematical modeling techniques to determine the “goodness” of the sensor and to correct its output for small changes due to aging and environmental conditions. The first interrogation was a physical interrogation of the flow path into the sensor by supplying a driving force at the face of the sensor, either by exhaled human breath, or by acoustic sound pressure applied to diffusion barriers protecting the sensor, ensuring that the flow path was sufficiently open for detection of hazardous gases. The second interrogation was an electronic interrogation of the sensor itself, achieved by applying a small potential or current pulse to the working electrode of the sensor and deconvoluting its response to make small corrections to the sensor signal. These two steps provide periodic, real-time, and automatic surveillance and correction of AES, increasing robustness, reliability and accuracy, and user confidence, while decreasing calibration frequency, maintenance, and cost-of-ownership. Validation testing over sensors of various designs indicated a greater than 98% reliability of the sensor/instrument interrogation technique.
Dysregulated FXR-FGF19 signaling and choline metabolism are associated with gut dysbiosis and hyperplasia in a novel pig model of pediatric NASH
Authors: Hernandez Gabriella V. , Smith Victoria A. , Melnyk Megan , Burd Matthew A. , Sprayberry Kimberly A. , Edwards Mark S. , Peterson Daniel G. , Bennet Darin C. , Fanter Rob K. , Columbus Daniel A. , Steibel Juan P. , Glanz Hunter , Immoos Chad , Rice Margaret S. , Santiago-Rodriguez Tasha M. , Blank Jason , VanderKelen Jennifer J. , Kitts Christopher L. , Piccolo Brian D. , La Frano Michael R. , Burrin Douglas G. , Maj Magdalena , Manjarin Rodrigo
Published: January 2020

To investigate the role of bile acids (BAs) in the pathogenesis of diet-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), we fed a “Western-style diet” [high fructose, high fat (HFF)] enriched with fructose, cholesterol, and saturated fat for 10 wk to juvenile Iberian pigs. We also supplemented probiotics with in vitro BA deconjugating activity to evaluate their potential therapeutic effect in NASH. Liver lipid and function, cytokines, and hormones were analyzed using commercially available kits. Metabolites, BAs, and fatty acids were measured by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Histology and gene and protein expression analyses were performed using standard protocols. HFF-fed pigs developed NASH, cholestasis, and impaired enterohepatic Farnesoid-X receptor (FXR)-fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) signaling in the absence of obesity and insulin resistance. Choline depletion in HFF livers was associated with decreased lipoprotein and cholesterol in serum and an increase of choline-containing phospholipids in colon contents and trimethylamine- N-oxide in the liver. Additionally, gut dysbiosis and hyperplasia increased with the severity of NASH, and were correlated with increased colonic levels of choline metabolites and secondary BAs. Supplementation of probiotics in the HFF diet enhanced NASH, inhibited hepatic autophagy, increased excretion of taurine and choline, and decreased gut microbial diversity. In conclusion, dysregulation of BA homeostasis was associated with injury and choline depletion in the liver, as well as increased biliary secretion, gut metabolism and excretion of choline-based phospholipids. Choline depletion limited lipoprotein synthesis, resulting in hepatic steatosis, whereas secondary BAs and choline-containing phospholipids in colon may have promoted dysbiosis, hyperplasia, and trimethylamine synthesis, causing further damage to the liver.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Impaired Farnesoid-X receptor (FXR)-fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) signaling and cholestasis has been described in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients. However, therapeutic interventions with FXR agonists have produced contradictory results. In a swine model of pediatric nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), we show that the uncoupling of intestinal FXR-FGF19 signaling and a decrease in FGF19 levels are associated with a choline-deficient phenotype of NASH and increased choline excretion in the gut, with the subsequent dysbiosis, colonic hyperplasia, and accumulation of trimethylamine- N-oxide in the liver.
Bioaccessibility and Pharmacokinetics of a Commercial Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) Extract
Authors: Almodóvar Paula , Briskey David , Rao Amanda , Prodanov Marín , Inarejos-García Antonio M.
Published: January 2020

There are few studies about the pharmacokinetics of the low‐molecular mass carotenoids crocetin or crocin isomers from saffron (Crocus sativus L.). None has been performed with a galenic preparation of a standardised saffron extract. The aim of the present research work was to study the effect of in vitro digestion process on the main bioactive components of saffron extract tablets and the corresponding pharmacokinetic parameters in humans. Pharmacokinetics were calculated collecting blood samples every 30 min during the first 3 h and at 24 h after administration of two different concentrations (56 and 84 mg of the saffron extract) to 13 healthy human volunteers. Additionally, an in vitro digestion process was performed in order to determine the bioaccessibility of saffron main bioactive compounds. Identification and quantification analysis were performed by HPLC‐PAD/MS. Digestion resulted in 40% of bioaccesibility for crocin isomers, whereas, safranal content followed an opposite trend increasing about 2 folds its initial concentration after the digestion process. Crocetin in plasma was detected in a maximum concentration (Cmax) in blood between 60 and 90 min after oral consumption with dose‐dependent response kinetics, showing that crocin isomers from galenic preparation of saffron extract are rapidly transformed into crocetin. The results showed that this tested galenic form is an efficient way to administer a saffron extract, since the observed crocetin Cmax was similar and more quickly bioavailable than those obtained by other studies with much higher concentrations of crocetin.
Generation of Synthetic Density Log Data Using Deep Learning Algorithm at the Golden Field in Alberta, Canada
Authors: Kim Sungil , Kim Kwang Hyun , Min Baehyun , Lim Jungtek , Lee Kyungbook
Published: January 2020

This study proposes a deep neural network- (DNN-) based prediction model for creating synthetic log. Unlike previous studies, it focuses on building a reliable prediction model based on two criteria: fit-for-purpose of a target field (the Golden field in Alberta) and compliance with domain knowledge. First, in the target field, the density log has advantages over the sonic log for porosity analysis because of the carbonate depositional environment. Considering the correlation between the density and sonic logs, we determine the sonic log as input and the density log as output for the DNN. Although only five wells have a pair of training data in the field (i.e., sonic and density logs), we obtain, based on geological knowledge, 29 additional wells sharing the same depositional setting in the Slave Point Formation. After securing the data, 5 wells among the 29 wells are excluded from dataset during preprocessing procedures (elimination of abnormal data and min–max normalisation) to improve the prediction model. Two cases are designed according to usage of the well information at the target field. Case 1 uses only 23 of the surrounding wells to train the prediction model, and another surrounding well is used for model testing. In Case 1, the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm shows a fast and reliable performance and the numbers of neurons in the two hidden layers are of 45 and 14, respectively. In Case 2, the 24 surrounding wells and four wells from the target field are used to train the DNN with the optimised parameters from Case 1. The synthetic density logs from Case 2 mitigate an underestimation problem in Case 1 and follow the overall trend of the true density logs. The developed prediction model utilises the sonic log for generating the synthetic density log, and a reliable porosity model will be created by combining the given and the synthetic density logs.
Bed Position Classification by a Neural Network and Bayesian Network Using Noninvasive Sensors for Fall Prevention
Authors: Viriyavit Waranrach , Sornlertlamvanich Virach
Published: January 2020

Falls from a bed often occur when an elderly patient attempts to get out of bed or comes close to the edge of a bed. These mishaps have a high possibility of serious injuries, such as bruises, soreness, and bone fractures. Moreover, a lack of repositioning the body of a bedridden elderly person may cause bedsores. To avoid such a risk, a continuous activity monitoring system is needed for taking care of the elderly. In this study, we propose a bed position classification method based on the sensor signals collected from only four sensors that are embedded in a panel (composed of two piezoelectric sensors and two pressure sensors). It is installed under the mattress on the bed. The bed positions considered are classified into five different classes, i.e., off-bed, sitting, lying center, lying left, and lying right. To collect the training dataset, three elderly patients were asked for consent to participate in the experiment. In our approach, a neural network combined with a Bayesian network is adopted to classify the bed positions and put a constraint on the possible sequences of the bed positions. The results from both the neural network and Bayesian network are combined by the weighted arithmetic mean. The experimental results have a maximum accuracy of position classification of 97.06% when the proportion of coefficients for the neural network and the Bayesian network is 0.3 and 0.7, respectively.
Evaluation of the Relationship between Early Troponin Clearance and Short-Term Mortality in Patients with Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Ozbek Ahmet , Algın Abdullah , Tas Gokhan , Erdogan Mehmet Ozgur
Published: January 2020

Objective. In patients with CKD, cTn concentrations may be elevated in the absence of AMI, which is a predicted finding caused by chronic structural heart disease rather than acute injury. The increase in troponin level observed in noncardiac conditions provides conflicting results when predicting mortality. Low lactate clearance was associated with increased mortality. Lactate clearance is calculated as follows: (early lactate − late lactate/early lactate) ∗ 100. We aimed to investigate whether troponin clearance calculated according to this formula had an effect on short-term mortality. Methods. The study included 300 patients with chronic renal failure who had a sepsis-related organ failure assessment (SOFA) score ≥3. By taking the baseline troponin at the time of emergency presentation as reference and comparing them with the fourth-hour troponin values, troponin clearance was investigated in the evaluation of mortality among hospitalized patients with CKD within the first month after discharge. The data obtained were analyzed using the SPSS data analysis software version 20.0. Student’s t-test was used for the parametric data, and the Chi-squared test for the nonparametric data. Results. Of the 300 patients evaluated, 189 patients survived (mean age 66.20 ± 14.597 years), and 111 died (mean age 74.81 ± 12.916 years). Troponin clearance was detected in 40 of the 111 patients in the mortality group and 119 of the 189 patients in the survival group. Troponin clearance was significantly more frequent in surviving patients (P=0.0000083). Conclusion. Troponin clearance can be considered as a valuable leading indicator of survival, but higher levels of troponin clearance did not lead to higher survival rates.
Parvovirus Infection-Related Anemia after Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Sharma Neeraj , Bajwa Ranvir
Published: January 2020

Anemia postkidney transplantation is an important issue which has been correlated with increased hospitalizations and higher mortality. Infections, including those due to parvovirus B19, CMV, and BK virus (polyomavirus), have also been associated with an increased risk of anemia. Here, we present a case of new-onset anemia in a kidney transplant recipient within 3 months of transplant. The patient was found to have multiple viral infections from parvo B19, BK virus, and rhinovirus. The anemia resolved completely after successful reduction in the parvo B19 and BK viral load. Workup for viral infections must be considered in the differential diagnosis of postkidney transplant anemia.
Histopathological Findings Related to ORISE™ Injectable Submucosa Lifting Agent Used in the Endoscopic Mucosal Resection of Bowel Neoplasms: A Review of Three Cases
Authors: Ibarra-Arzamendia Patricia N. , Hanly Mark G.
Published: January 2020

The use of nonsaline injectable lifting agents is now routine in the performance of endoscopic mucosal resection of bowel neoplasms (EMR). These agents are used to elevate the mucosa from the muscularis propria and permit more a complete resection of the lesion while mitigating risk of possible thermal injury to the bowel wall and thus preventing perforation. After injection, these new agents, which are replacing normal saline, often remain present in the tissues for some time following the procedure and may be identified in the resection specimens where they may mimic a number of other conditions such as mucin pools, lymphangiomas, granulomatous inflammation, and amyloid deposition. We describe the histological findings associated with the use of nonsaline injectable mucosal lifting agents. Awareness of these agents and their associated artefact may reduce misdiagnosis or the use of unnecessary ancillary studies and highlights the importance of proving relevant clinical information on submission of specimens for pathological examination.
Stability and Hopf Bifurcation of Three-Species Prey-Predator System with Time Delays and Allee Effect
Authors: Rihan F. A. , Alsakaji H. J. , Rajivganthi C.
Published: January 2020

Allee effect is one of the important factors in ecology, and taking it into account can cause significant impacts in the system dynamics. In this paper, we study the dynamics of a two-prey one-predator system, where the growth of both prey populations is subject to Allee effects, and there is a direct competition between the two-prey species having a common predator. Two discrete time delays τ1 and τ2 are incorporated into the model to represent reaction time of predators. Sufficient conditions for local stability of positive interior equilibrium and existence of Hopf bifurcations in terms of threshold parameters τ1∗ and τ2∗ are obtained. A Lyapunov functional is deducted to investigate the global stability of positive interior equilibrium. Sensitivity analysis to evaluate the uncertainty of the state variables to small changes in the Allee parameters is also investigated. Presence of Allee effect and time delays in the model increases the complexity of the model and enriches the dynamics of the system. Some numerical simulations are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results. The model is highly sensitive to small changes in Allee parameters at the early stages and with low population densities, and this sensitivity decreases with time.
Probabilistic Analysis for Structures with Hybrid Uncertain Parameters
Authors: Xiao Z. , Zhao Q. C. , Wen Z. J. , Cao M. F.
Published: January 2020

In practical engineering problems, the distribution parameters of random variables cannot be determined precisely due to limited experimental data. The hybrid uncertain model of interval and probability can deal with the problem, but it will produce extensive computation and it is difficult to meet the requirement of the complex engineering problem analysis. In this scenario, this paper presents a vertex method for the uncertainty analysis of the hybrid model. By combining the traditional finite element method, it can be applied to the structural uncertainty analysis. The key of this method is to demonstrate the monotonicity between expectation and variance of the function and distribution parameters of random variables. Based on the monotonicity analysis, interval bounds of the expectation and variance are directly calculated by means of vertex of distribution parameter intervals. Two numerical examples are used to evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method. The results show the vertex method is computationally more efficient than the common interval Monte Carlo method under the same accuracy. Two practical engineering examples are to show that the vertex method makes the engineering application of the hybrid uncertain model easy.
Bevacizumab as an Adjunct to Trabeculectomy in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Bilgic Alper , Sudhalkar Aditya , Sudhalkar Anand , Trivedi Megha , Vasavada Viraj , Vasavada Shail , Vasavada Vaishali , Srivastava Samaresh
Published: January 2020

Purpose. To compare the outcomes of trabeculectomy using two different routes of bevacizumab administration as an adjunct in patients with primary open angle glaucoma. Methods. Prospective, randomized, masked trial that included 180 eyes of 180 patients of documented primary open angle glaucoma were eligible for surgery. Patients were randomized to receive either a single intraoperative dose of subconjunctival bevacizumab (1.25 mg, Group I) or topical bevacizumab (5 mg/ml) for 30 days (Group II). One eye was randomly selected, if both were eligible for surgery. All patients underwent a complete ocular and systemic examination. Bleb morphology was examined and scored as per Moorfields system (MBGS) at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months postoperatively. Visual field, fundus photography, and disc analysis were performed. Outcome measures (at one year) included (1) comparison of bleb morphology in both groups, (2) proportion of patients achieving surgical success, and (3) side effects of treatment. Results. The groups did not differ with respect to age, sex, and crystalline lens status. Group II patients had significantly lower vascularity scores for central (P=0.042) and peripheral bleb areas (P=0.023) and peripheral nonbleb area (P=0.03). A significantly larger proportion of Group II (n = 88) patients achieved average vascular scores of less than 2.5 (P=0.0056, Fisher’s test) than Group I (n = 85). The groups did not differ in terms of surgical success (96% vs. 94%; P=0.54). No major complications were noted in either group. Conclusion. Topical bevacizumab gives a better vascularity profile at one year, but the studied routes appear equally safe and do not seem to affect the outcome in any other way.
Persistent Increase in Serum Alkaline Phosphatase in a Patient with Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undefined Significance
Authors: Ramasamy I.
Published: January 2020

We report the finding of alkaline phosphatase-immunoglobulin complex (macro-alkaline phosphatase (macro-ALP)) in a patient with persistently increased ALP activity. The identification of macro-ALP is important to rule out pathological causes of increased ALP activity and to avoid unnecessary diagnostic investigation. The patient was subsequently diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency, gallstone pancreatitis, and monoclonal gammopathy of undefined significance (MGUS). Macro-ALP can coexist with disease that can increase serum ALP activity. We report, for the first time, a case of macro-ALP in a patient with a monoclonal protein (M-protein).
Optimized Cluster-Based Dynamic Energy-Aware Routing Protocol for Wireless Sensor Networks in Agriculture Precision
Authors: Qureshi Kashif Naseer , Bashir Muhammad Umair , Lloret Jaime , Leon Antonio
Published: January 2020

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are becoming one of the demanding platforms, where sensor nodes are sensing and monitoring the physical or environmental conditions and transmit the data to the base station via multihop routing. Agriculture sector also adopted these networks to promote innovations for environmental friendly farming methods, lower the management cost, and achieve scientific cultivation. Due to limited capabilities, the sensor nodes have suffered with energy issues and complex routing processes and lead to data transmission failure and delay in the sensor-based agriculture fields. Due to these limitations, the sensor nodes near the base station are always relaying on it and cause extra burden on base station or going into useless state. To address these issues, this study proposes a Gateway Clustering Energy-Efficient Centroid- (GCEEC-) based routing protocol where cluster head is selected from the centroid position and gateway nodes are selected from each cluster. Gateway node reduces the data load from cluster head nodes and forwards the data towards the base station. Simulation has performed to evaluate the proposed protocol with state-of-the-art protocols. The experimental results indicated the better performance of proposed protocol and provide more feasible WSN-based monitoring for temperature, humidity, and illumination in agriculture sector.
Preservación digital
Authors: Claudio Escobar Arriagada
Published: January 2020

La preservación digital es un conjunto de tareas, técnicas, métodos y tecnologías que buscan garantizar el acceso a la información en formato digital. Este artículo presenta una aproximación a los conceptos clave relacionados con la preservación digital, los beneficios de su implementación, los principales aspectos tecnológicos asociados, los desafíos y  una mirada a la situación actual de la preservación digital en Chile.
Gefitinib and Afatinib Show Potential Efficacy for Fanconi Anemia–Related Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Montanuy Helena , Martínez-Barriocanal Águeda , Antonio Casado José , Rovirosa Llorenç , Ramírez Maria José , Nieto Rocío , Carrascoso-Rubio Carlos , Riera Pau , González Alan , Lerma Enrique , Lasa Adriana , Carreras-Puigvert Jordi , Helleday Thomas , Bueren Juan A. , Arango Diego , Minguillón Jordi , Surrallés Jordi
Published: January 2020

Purpose:

Fanconi anemia rare disease is characterized by bone marrow failure and a high predisposition to solid tumors, especially head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Patients with Fanconi anemia with HNSCC are not eligible for conventional therapies due to high toxicity in healthy cells, predominantly hematotoxicity, and the only treatment currently available is surgical resection. In this work, we searched and validated two already approved drugs as new potential therapies for HNSCC in patients with Fanconi anemia.

Experimental Design:

We conducted a high-content screening of 3,802 drugs in a FANCA-deficient tumor cell line to identify nongenotoxic drugs with cytotoxic/cytostatic activity. The best candidates were further studied in vitro and in vivo for efficacy and safety.

Results:

Several FDA/European Medicines Agency (EMA)-approved anticancer drugs showed cancer-specific lethality or cell growth inhibition in Fanconi anemia HNSCC cell lines. The two best candidates, gefitinib and afatinib, EGFR inhibitors approved for non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), displayed nontumor/tumor IC50 ratios of approximately 400 and approximately 100 times, respectively. Neither gefitinib nor afatinib activated the Fanconi anemia signaling pathway or induced chromosomal fragility in Fanconi anemia cell lines. Importantly, both drugs inhibited tumor growth in xenograft experiments in immunodeficient mice using two Fanconi anemia patient–derived HNSCCs. Finally, in vivo toxicity studies in Fanca-deficient mice showed that administration of gefitinib or afatinib was well-tolerated, displayed manageable side effects, no toxicity to bone marrow progenitors, and did not alter any hematologic parameters.

Conclusions:

Our data present a complete preclinical analysis and promising therapeutic line of the first FDA/EMA-approved anticancer drugs exerting cancer-specific toxicity for HNSCC in patients with Fanconi anemia.
Morphological Features of Minimal Change Disease and Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis Using Repeat Biopsy and Parietal Epithelial Cell Marker
Authors: Suzuki Tomo , Kohatsu Kaori , Han Wei , Watanabe Shiika , Yahagi Koichi , Nakata Mayumi , Ueno Toshiharu , Ichikawa Daisuke , Imai Naohiko , Shirai Sayuri , Koike Junki , Shibagaki Yugo
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Minimal change disease (MCD) and primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) are representative podocyte diseases. The clinical cause of MCD and FSGS has not been clearly elucidated yet. However, it is important to distinguish MCD and FSGS because their prognoses and responses to treatment are quite different. Objective: This study aimed to examine whether parietal epithelial cell (PEC) marker and repeat biopsy are useful for diagnosing primary FSGS. Methods: Clinicopathological features of 17 patients with the nephrotic syndrome, who underwent kidney biopsy ≥2 times from 1975 to 2017, and had MCD or FSGS were analyzed using PAX8. We defined patients with PAX8+ cells as PAX8+ and the remainder as PAX8– patients. Three cases of sample insufficiency and 1 non-steroid-resistant or frequently relapsing case indicated for repeat biopsy were excluded. Results: Among the 13 patients studied, 4 were PAX8+ and 9 were PAX8– (median age: 41 and 46 years, ­respectively, at first biopsy). PAX8+ and PAX8– patients showed no significant differences in clinical data and histological diagnosis except for a significant difference in histological diagnosis at the second biopsy. The number of PAX8+ patients increased to 6. Unlike the first biopsy results, FSGS was present in 5 of 6 (83.3%) PAX8+ patients; MCD occurred in all 7 (100%) PAX8– patients. Three of 6 (50.0%) PAX8+ patients undergoing repeat biopsy were steroid resistant; no (0%) PAX8– patient was steroid resistant. All cases of final FSGS diagnosis were PAX8+ at the first or second biopsy. Only 1 PAX8+ MCD patient was steroid resistant. All PAX8– MCD patients were frequently relapsing. Conclusions: More PAX8+ patients were diagnosed with FSGS than PAX8– patients. Clinical presentation of MCD in PAX8– patients was frequently relapsing. PEC marker staining in patients with the nephrotic syndrome, e.g., MCD, may help to diagnose FSGS.
Ileocolonic Lymphonodular Hyperplasia in Children Related to Etiologies Ranging from Food Hypersensitivity to Familial Mediterranean Fever
Authors: Cakir Murat , Sag Elif , Saygin Ismail , Orhan Fazil
Published: January 2020

Objective: We aimed to share our observations on the demographics, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of lymphonodular hyperplasia (LNH) in children. Subjects and Methods: The study included children on whom colonoscopy was performed between January 2015 and May 2018 (n = 361). Demographics, treatment modalities, and outcomes of the patients with LNH were recorded. Results: LNH was found in 66 patients (18.3%; mean age 8.6 ± 5.96 years, 59.1% male). We found that the etiologic factors were food hypersensitivity (FH) in 25 (37.8%), nonspecific colitis in 12 (18.2%), irritable bowel syndrome in 10 (15.2%), familial Mediter­ranean fever in 7 (10.6%), primary immunodeficiency in 4 (6.1%), and intestinal dysmotility, oxyuriasis, Crohn’s disease, and giardiasis in 1 (1.5%) patient. Additionally, in the genetic analysis of patients with idiopathic LNH (n = 4), we detected heterozygote MEFV mutations in all. Cow’s milk and egg (25%) were the most common allergens in patients with FH. Symptoms of all patients (n = 25) improved after an elimination diet. Conclusions: LNH is a common finding in pediatric colonoscopies with a variety of etiologies ranging from FH and familial Mediterranean fever to immunodeficiency.
Banhado: plano popular de urbanização e regularização fundiária
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto de Arquitetura e Urbanismo, Tavares Jeferson C. , Fantin Marcel ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Instituto de Arquitetura e Urbanismo
Published: January 2020

Diante da iniciativa de remoção de 460 famílias assentadas no Banhado, o grupo de Práticas de Pesquisa, Ensino e Extensão em Urbanismo (PExURB) do Instituto de Arquitetura e Urbanismo (IAU-UP) coordenou a elaboração de um plano de urbanização e regularização fundiária como estudo sobre a viabilidade de permanência segura da comunidade. Nesse plano, priorizou-se a valorização da água, o uso intensivo de infraestruturas e as diferentes escalas da inserção do trabalho na sociedade, articulando os interesses sociais aos ambientais. A parceria entre a academia e a comunidade na elaboração do Plano resultou na articulação interdisciplinar entre as áreas de arquitetura e urbanismo, engenharia civil e ambiental, planejamento urbano e regional e direito urbanístico, com intensa participação popular. As soluções, em síntese, buscam garantir uma infraestrutura ramificada orientada pelo zoneamento ambiental e pelos instrumentos legais de regularização fundiária que ordenam uma rede de serviços e atividades produtivas. O Plano se consolida como uma ponte entre a universidade e a sociedade para promover ensino e ação política pelo conhecimento técnico.
Aortic Stiffness and Infarct Healing in Survivors of Acute ST‐Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Reindl Martin , Tiller Christina , Holzknecht Magdalena , Lechner Ivan , Hein Nicolas , Pamminger Mathias , Henninger Benjamin , Mayr Agnes , Feistritzer Hans‐Josef , Klug Gert , Bauer Axel , Metzler Bernhard , Reinstadler Sebastian J.
Published: January 2020

Background

In survivors of acute
ST
‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction (
STEMI
), increased aortic stiffness is associated with worse clinical outcome; however, the underlying pathomechanisms are incompletely understood. We aimed to investigate associations between aortic stiffness and infarct healing using comprehensive cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in patients with acute
STEMI
.

Methods and Results

This was a prospective observational study including 103 consecutive
STEMI
patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Pulse wave velocity (
PWV
), the reference standard for aortic stiffness assessment, was determined by a validated phase‐contrast cardiac magnetic resonance imaging protocol within the first week after
STEMI
. Infarct healing, defined as relative infarct size reduction from baseline to 4 months post‐
STEMI
, was determined using late gadolinium‐enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance. Median infarct size significantly decreased from 17% of left ventricular mass (interquartile range 9% to 28%) at baseline to 12% (6% to 17%) at 4‐month follow‐up (
P
<0.001). Relative infarct size reduction was 36% (interquartile range 15% to 52%). Patients with a reduction >36% were younger (
P
=0.01) and had lower baseline NT‐proBNP (N‐terminal pro–B‐type natriuretic peptide) concentrations (
P
=0.047) and aortic
PWV
values (
P
=0.003). In a continuous (odds ratio 0.64 [95% CI, 0.49–0.84];
P
=0.001) as well as categorical (
PWV
<7 m/s; odds ratio 4.80 [95% CI, 1.89–12.20];
P
=0.001) multivariable logistic regression model, the relation between aortic
PWV
and relative infarct size reduction remained significant after adjustment for baseline infarct size, age, NT‐proBNP, and C‐reactive protein.

Conclusions

Aortic
PWV
independently predicted infarct size reduction as assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance, revealing a novel pathophysiological link between aortic stiffness and adverse infarct healing during the early phase after
STEMI
treated with contemporary primary percutaneous coronary intervention.
Ischemic Stroke and Bleeding
Authors: Stanton Robert J. , Eckman Mark H. , Woo Daniel , Moomaw Charles J. , Haverbusch Mary , Flaherty Matthew L. , Kleindorfer Dawn O.
Published: January 2020

Background and Purpose—

Patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are at risk for ischemic events. While risk calculators (CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc and HAS-BLED) have been validated to assess risk for ischemic stroke and major bleeding in AF patients, decisions about anticoagulation must consider the net clinical benefit of anticoagulation. Furthermore, stroke and bleeding risk are highly correlated, making decisions more difficult.

Methods—

We examined patients in the GERFHS III study (Genetic and Environmental Risk Factors for Hemorrhagic Stroke)—a population-based retrospective study of spontaneous ICH patients without a structural or traumatic cause in the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region between July 2008 and December 2012. CHA
2
DS
2
-VASc and HAS-B(L)ED (minus L because labile international normalized ratio was unavailable) scores were calculated for ICH patients with AF. Using a Markov state transition model, we estimated net clinical benefit of anticoagulation relative to no treatment in quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). We defined minimal clinically relevant benefit as 0.1 QALYs.

Results—

Among 1186 cases of spontaneous ICH, 95 cases had AF and met our survival criteria. Within 1 year, 8 of 95 (8%) would be expected to have a major bleeding event on anticoagulation, and 5 of 95 (5%) of patients would be expected to have an ischemic stroke off anticoagulation. Sixty-eight of 95 (71%) patients would have higher risk for major bleeding than for ischemic stroke. Anticoagulation with directly acting anticoagulants would result in no clinically significant gain or loss in 73%. Roughly 12% would gain >0.1 QALYs, and 15% would lose >0.1 QALYs. Among patients receiving aspirin, most have no significant net clinical benefit or loss. Overall, anticoagulation of the entire cohort would result in an aggregate loss of 0.92 QALYs.

Conclusions—

Our analysis suggests that universal anticoagulation after ICH would be associated with a net loss of QALY. Additional factors should be considered before anticoagulating patients with AF after ICH.

Registration—

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00930280.
Genome-Wide Polygenic Score and the Risk of Ischemic Stroke in a Prospective Cohort
Authors: Hachiya Tsuyoshi , Hata Jun , Hirakawa Yoichiro , Yoshida Daigo , Furuta Yoshihiko , Kitazono Takanari , Shimizu Atsushi , Ninomiya Toshiharu
Published: January 2020

Background and Purpose—

Environmental and genetic factors contribute to the development of ischemic stroke (IS). We recently developed a genome-wide polygenic risk score (PRS) for IS using case-control datasets from 4 large-scale observational studies conducted in Japan. Our objective in the present study was to confirm the association between the PRS and the risk of IS with data from an independent prospective cohort recruited from the general Japanese population.

Methods—

A total of 3038 subjects aged ≥40 years were followed up for 10 years (2002–2012). The genome-wide PRS was calculated using genotype data from >350 000 single-nucleotide polymorphisms. The PRS levels were divided into quintiles. High and low genetic risk groups were defined as top 60% and bottom 40% of PRS, respectively. The hazard ratio (HR) for the development of IS was estimated using a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results—

During the follow-up period, 91 cases developed first-ever IS. The age- and sex-adjusted HR for IS increased with higher PRS levels (
P
for trend, 0.03). Subjects with the highest quintile level of PRS had a 2.44-fold (95% CI, 1.16–5.12) greater risk for IS than those with the lowest quintile level after adjusting for age and sex. A similar association was observed after adjusting for environmental risk factors (
P
for trend, 0.03). As compared with low genetic risk group, the age- and sex-adjusted HR in high genetic risk group was 1.63 (95% CI, 1.04–2.55), which was comparable to the HR of hypertension (HR, 1.41), diabetes mellitus (HR, 1.72), and smoking (HR, 1.54). The age- and sex-adjusted HR increased with the number of environmental risk factors in both high and low genetic risk groups without significant interaction.

Conclusions—

A high genome-wide PRS was a significant risk factor for IS independent of environmental risk factors in a general Japanese population. This finding suggests that PRS may be useful to identify individuals at a high risk of IS.
Taxonomy at a crossroads: Communicating value, building capability, and seizing opportunities for the future
Authors: SAUNDERS THOMAS E.
Published: January 2020

I believe the top three questions facing taxonomy today all relate to the health and future of the discipline itself. 1. How do we ensure taxonomy is valued? 2. How do we build and maintain taxonomic capability? 3. How do we ensure taxonomy benefits from emerging opportunities?
Redescription of Ploiaria mellea (Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Emesinae) and its first report from India
Authors: BOYANE SWAPNIL S. , GHATE HEMANT V.
Published: January 2020

A macropterous species, Ploiaria mellea McAtee & Malloch, 1926 (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Emesinae: Leistarchini) is reported for the first time from India; the previously unknown male is illustrated and described. The species was originally described from the Philippines. Since the species was found in three climatically different localities near Pune, it must be a well-established emesine bug that has so far remained undetected or unidentified in India.
New and known species of Nothotylenchus Thorne, 1941 (Nematoda: Anguinidae) from Iran with an updated list of species
Authors: HASHEMI KOBRA , KAREGAR AKBAR
Published: January 2020

During a survey conducted during 2013–2017, five known and two new species of Nothotylenchus Thorne, 1941 were collected from the southern provinces of Iran. N. brzeskii n. sp. is characterised by a body length of 774–922 µm, lateral fields with four incisures, delicate, short stylet (7–8 µm) with small rounded knobs, pyriform, offset or slightly overlapping basal pharyngeal bulb, posterior vulva position (V = 83.4–84.4), short PUS (5–10 µm), spicules 20.5–23 µm long, and thick tail with rounded to dull terminus. N. siddiqi n. sp. is characterised by a body length of 573–645 µm, six to nine incisures in lateral fields, delicate, short stylet (6.5–7.5 µm) with rounded knobs, pyriform or slightly elongate and offset basal pharyngeal bulb, V = 79.3–81.0, PUS = 26.5–40 µm, short spicules = 14.5–16.5 µm, and tail with rounded terminus. Morphometric data of the studied species are presented and intraspecific variation of their morphometrics and morphological characters is discussed. The list of world Nothotylenchus species is updated, and a dichotomous identification key and an updated tabular compendium for 41 valid species are provided.