bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sepsis in Post Cardiac Surgery Patient – A Rare Cause
Authors: Singh Sarvesh , Singh Sukhjeet
Published: November 2018

A 32-year-old patient who underwent cardiac surgery and developed sepsis in the postoperative period is described. Septic arthritis of knee joint as a rare cause of sepsis in the post cardiac surgery patient is discussed. The role of routine examination of joints in patients under evaluation for sepsis is emphasized.
Simulation for Safety in the Pediatric Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory
Authors: Sharma Ruchik
Published: November 2018

Treating congenital heart disease is a high-risk, high-benefit scenario, be it in the operating rooms or in cardiac catheterization labs. Inherent to the high-risk nature of the disease, adverse events of varying severity can happen during cath or surgical intervention. These have been traditionally the ‘real’ clinical teaching for the physician. Simulation technology helps physicians to be trained stress-free in zero-risk environments, especially for the low-frequency, high-risk events. But as always, introduction of new technology faces barriers, so is the case with simulators. Anesthesiology proudly compares itself to the aviation industry, which had also ridiculed aviation simulators in the 1970s. Now they are mandated by all worldwide aviation training authorities. Maybe its time for the anesthesiologists to take the lead in simulation in the health care sector too.
Comparison of Ultrafast Tracking Anesthesia versus Conventional Strategy in Postoperative Management of Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: Nagre Amarja
Published: November 2018

Introduction Conventional strategy in the postoperative ventilation was a long-established practice in former times but now fast tracking is an acknowledged technique. This study was embarked to assess the impact of ultrafast tracking on patient recovery and length of stay in intensive care unit (ICU) compared with conventional methods in off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) patients.

Methods Fifty patients were enrolled in each group. Exclusion criteria were patients with ejection fraction > 30%, hemodynamically unstable, on intra-aortic balloon pump, associated valvular heart disease, and intraoperative conversion to on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting. Ultrafast tracking of anesthesia (UFTA) protocol included induction with low dose fentanyl, propofol, and vecuronium. Maintenance of anesthesia was done with sevoflurane, fentanyl, and atracurium whereas analgesia was done with tramadol and paracetamol.

Results Statistical analysis was done with SPSS 21.0 program. Fischer’s test, chi-square test, independent t-test/Mann–Whitney U tests were used for calculations. Extubation time was statistically significant (p = 0.0001). Shift to ward was 3.96 ± 0.73 days in UFTA group and 4.34 ± 0.66 days in conventional group which proved statistically significant (p = 0.0073). No patients in both groups had postoperative myocardial infarction, stroke, low cardiac output, or mediastinitis. Renal failure and mortality were 2% in conventional group. Hypothermia, pacemaker dependency, blood transfusion, inotrope score, atrial fibrillation, re-exploration, and reintubation were monitored. No reintubation occurred in UFTA group.

Conclusion UFTA appears to be safe and effective in OPCAB patients with early shift from ICU without any major complications.
Population versus Customized Growth Curves: Prediction of Composite Neonatal Morbidity
Authors: Mendez-Figueroa Hector , Chauhan Suneet P. , Barrett Tyisha , Truong Van Thi Thanh , Pedroza Claudia , Blackwell Sean C.
Published: November 2018

Objective To assess the ability of customized and population growth nomograms in identifying newborns with composite neonatal morbidity (CNM).

Study Design This study included women who participated in the 10 Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units (MFMU) trials and delivered a nonanomalous singleton with a known gestational age (GA) of 24 weeks or more and documented birthweight. Population nomograms were based on Alexander's nomogram, whereas customized nomograms used publicly available softwares. Random-effect logistic regression was used to estimate the adjusted odds ratio (aOR). Positive and negative likelihood ratios (LRs) were calculated to assess nomogram performance.

Results Of 92,225 women, 85% met the inclusion criteria. Using the population nomogram, 12% were small for gestational age (SGA) and 10% were large for gestational age (LGA), and using customized nomograms, 15% were SGA and 16% LGA. SGA newborns had a higher likelihood of CNM (aOR: 2.62; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.48–2.76) for population nomograms and 3.22 (95% CI: 3.07–3.39) for customized nomograms. LGA newborns had a similar CNM with population nomogram but significantly higher with customized nomogram (aOR: 1.42; 95% CI: 1.34–1.50). For the adverse outcomes among SGA and LGA, the positive LRs for the two nomograms were similar with overlapping 95% CI.

Conclusion Though both SGA and LGA are associated with adverse perinatal outcomes, the detection using both nomograms was similar.
Assessment of the Anterolateral Ligament of the Knee by Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: De Carli Angelo , Monaco Edoardo , Mazza Daniele , Argento Giuseppe , Redler Andrea , Proietti Lorenzo , Gaj Edoardo , Ferretti Andrea
Published: November 2018

Purpose The purpose of this study was to describe the anatomy of the anterolateral ligament (ALL) of the knee by the use of 1.5 Tesla (T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a series of young patients without knee injuries.

Methods Subjects aged 18 years or older without an anterior cruciate ligament injury, as confirmed on MRI, were included. MRI examinations were all performed on 1.5 T scans. The ALL was defined as the low signal band originating from the region of the lateral epicondyle of the femur, crossing the proximal surface of the lateral collateral ligament, deep to the iliotibial band, and inserting onto the tibia between the Gerdy's tubercle and the fibular head.

Results Twenty-six patients met the eligibility criteria and were enrolled into the study. In one patient, it was not possible to visualize the ALL. In all the other subjects, the ligament originated anterior and distal to the lateral epicondyle and inserted on the proximal tibia approximately 5 mm below the joint line and just distal to the Gerdy's tubercle. It had an average length of 33 ± 1.2 mm, an average width of 5.5 ± 0.3 mm, and an average thickness of 2 mm.

Conclusion The ALL is a distinct structure of the anterolateral capsule that can be easily identified using 1.5 T MRI scans.

Level of Evidence This is a level IV, observational study.
Tunable mid-infrared Raman soliton generation from 1.96 to 2.82 μm in an all-solid fluorotellurite fiber
Authors: Li Zhenrui , Li Nan , Yao Chuanfei , Wang Fang , Jia Zhixu , Wang Fei , Qin Guanshi , Ohishi Yasutake , Qin Weiping
Published: November 2018

We demonstrate tunable mid-infrared (MIR) Raman soliton generation in an all-solid fluorotellurite fiber pumped by a 1960 nm femtosecond fiber laser. All-solid fluorotellurite fibers are fabricated by using a rod-in-tube method. The core and cladding materials are TeO2-BaF2-Y2O3 (TBY) and AlF3-based glasses. Since the refractive index of AlF3-based glass is much lower than that of TBY glass, the zero-dispersion wavelength of all-solid fluorotellurite fiber can be tuned in a wide range by simply varying the core diameter of the fiber. By using a 0.5 m long all-solid fluorotellurite fiber with a core diameter of ∼ 2.7 μm as the nonlinear medium and a 1960 nm femtosecond fiber laser as the pump source, tunable MIR Raman soliton generation from 1.96 to 2.82 μm is obtained via soliton self-frequency shift by increasing the pump power. For the soliton laser source operating at 2.82 μm, the obtained optical-to-optical conversion efficiency is about 18% and the calculated pulse width is about 93 fs. Our results show that all-solid fluorotellurite fibers are promising nonlinear media for constructing tunable MIR ultrafast laser sources.
Numerical investigation of coalescence-induced self-propelled behavior of droplets on non-wetting surfaces
Authors: Chen Yan , Lian Yongsheng
Published: November 2018

We numerically study the self-propelled droplet phenomenon upon droplet coalescence. The numerical method is based on a well-validated multiphase flow solver that solves the three-dimensional Navier-Stokes equations. The liquid-air interface is captured using the moment of fluid along with a direction splitting method applied to advect the interface. And an approximate projection method is used to decouple the calculation of velocity and pressure. The solver is validated by comparing with the experimental results. Our results show that the droplet jumping process can be accurately captured. The simulated droplet deformation also matches the experimental results. To investigate the jumping mechanism, we compare results between two cases with and without a contact substrate. The history of vertical momentum shows that with a contact substrate, the droplet has a longer period of acceleration. The coalesced droplet with a contact substrate also has a smaller surface area which indicates that more surface energy is converted into kinetic energy. The effects of droplet size, surface tension, and droplet density are also studied. The jumping speed generally obeys the capillary scaling law. The effect of approaching speed is also investigated. With lower approaching speed, the surface tension dominates while with higher approaching speed, the inertia force dominates the jumping process.
Operating performance analysis on wind turbines with the speed regulating differential mechanism
Authors: Yin Wen-liang , Rui Xiao-ming , Liu Lin , Hu Xin
Published: November 2018

In this paper, a hybrid transmission system is presented for variable-speed constant-frequency wind turbines (WTs). This approach employs an electrically controlled speed regulating differential mechanism (SRDM) so that the synchronous generator is able to rotate at a stable speed and, thus, generate electricity in constant frequency regardless of the changing wind rotor speed. In order to find out the operating performance of the proposed SRDM-based WT, a detailed 1.5 MW simulation model is established by which the speed-regulating accuracy, the electrical harmonic pollutions, and the system low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) capability are all studied in depth and then compared with those of the existing direct-drive or double-fed wind power systems. Simulation results indicate that, under various wind conditions, SRDM can efficiently regulate the output power frequency with satisfactory deviations by using a low-power (less than 262 kW) permanent magnet synchronous motor. Compared to the existing WTs, the 5th, 7th, 11th, and 13th current harmonics of the proposed WT are all ideally reduced to 0.4% of the fundamental current. Moreover, around 0.45 p.u., reactive power can be provided for the rapid recovery of the grid during severe voltage sags. The output power quality, system transient stability, and LVRT capability are all improved. Theoretical analysis and case studies give good verifications of the feasibility and superiority of the proposed SRDM-based WT.
Strain-induced photo-thermoelectric terahertz detection
Authors: Ahmad Hasan , Suzuki Daichi , Kawano Yukio
Published: November 2018

We report a design for terahertz (THz) detection by introducing strain to an area of a single-wall carbon nanotube (SWNT) film. The strain is achieved by bending the film around the center, and a large THz response is measured at the two photo-thermoelectric junctions created on the edges of the strained area. We attribute the THz response to an increase in the Seebeck coefficient of the SWNT film with strain, which gives rise to the photo-thermoelectric effect. The enhanced thermal performance is verified on a macroscopic scale using Non-Equilibrium Green’s Function approach for SWNT networks.
Proximity to urban fringe recreational facilities increases native biodiversity in an arid rangeland
Authors: Khafaga Tamer , Simkins Greg , Gallacher David
Published: November 2018

Urban developments affect neighbouring ecosystems in multiple ways, usually decreasing native biodiversity. Arabian arid rangeland was studied to identify the primary causes of biodiversity variation. Al Marmoum is a 990km2 area on the urban edge of Dubai, designated for ecological ‘enhancement’ and outdoor recreational use. The area lacks historical biodiversity data, but is thought to be primarily influenced by Arabian camel (Camelus dromedarius Linnaeus, 1758) herbivory. Perennial floral and faunal diversity was assessed at 54 sites. Counts of reintroduced ungulates (Arabian oryx Oryx leucoryx (Pallas, 1777), Arabian gazelle Gazella gazella cora (C.H. Smith, 1827) and sand gazelle G.subgutturosa marica (Thomas, 1897)) were made at 79 separate sites. Correlations of observed biodiversity with substrate type, anthropogenic structures, and ungulate distribution were assessed. Native biodiversity was substantially higher in north-north-west locations near recreational facilities, with the most likely cause being differential browsing pressure. Camel browsing faced greater communal regulation in the north-north-west, whereas oryx and gazelles congregated at feed points in the south-south-east that were farther from human activity. Arid rangeland in this socioecological landscape exhibits greater natural biodiversity at the urban fringe. Human activity reduces ungulate density, enabling a greater diversity of perennial flora, which then attracts non-ungulate fauna. Anthropogenic features can therefore offer conservation value in landscapes where ungulate populations are artificially elevated.
Integrating National Standards in the curricular development, implementation, and student outcomes of a post-secondary Chinese language program
Authors: Lin Nina , Chung Marina , Zeng Hong , Zhang Youping , Sun Chaofen
Published: November 2018

This paper chronicles the development of a post-secondary Chinese program after the establishment of the Language Center at Stanford University in 1995. It outlines a continuous process of curriculum development aiming to be consistent with the National Standards for Foreign Language Learning (ACTFL, 2006) and World-Readiness Standards for Learning Languages (ACTFL, 2014). It also describes assessment programs implemented to obtain data on students’ oral and writing proficiency levels at the end of 150 hours of instruction (completion of first-year Chinese) and at the end of 300 hours of instruction (completion of second-year Chinese). Because Chinese is a non-cognate language to English, students’ achieving ACTFL proficiency levels of Intermediate Low in oral and writing proficiency at the end of their first year and achieving Intermediate Mid and higher at the end of their second year indicates the program’s successful curricular design and implementation. This paper outlines the main factors contributing to this success.
You ain’t got principle, you ain’t got nothing
Authors: Hackert Stephanie , Laube Alexander
Published: November 2018

The present study investigates the system of verbal negation in Bahamian Creole and relates it to the respective systems of historically connected varieties in North America, i.e. contemporary as well as earlier varieties of African American Vernacular English and Gullah. Building on a corpus of roughly 98,000 words, the study provides a variable analysis of the all-purpose negatorain’tand its competitors and offers some remarks on invariantdon’t, negative concord, and the preverbal past-tense negatornever. It shows that in particular the syntactic and temporal distribution ofain’t, which have repeatedly been discussed in connection with the debate about the origins of African American Vernacular English, reveal striking similarities between Gullah and its immediate descendant Bahamian Creole, while confirming a more distant relationship with African American Vernacular English.
The progressive versus non-progressive alternation
Authors: Deshors Sandra C. , Rautionaho Paula
Published: November 2018

This corpus-based study focuses on the alternation between progressive and non-progressive constructions in native and non-native varieties. We adopt a quantitative-qualitative approach starting with a collostructional analysis of the two constructions to assess association strengths between lexical verbs, semantic domains and Aktionsart categories on the one hand, and progressive and non-progressive constructions on the other hand. We then explore the constructions semantically and qualitatively. Overall, associations between the two constructions and Achievements and Accomplishments on the one hand, and semantic domains other than Activity or Existence on the other, do not unanimously influence writers’ constructional choices. Further, there may not be one single core meaning of the progressive, but rather a complex of meanings activated by the use of the progressive construction. Ultimately, we paint a multifaceted picture of the meanings of the progressive and show the benefit of combining quantitative and qualitative approaches to explore constructional semantics across Englishes.
Adapting to survive
Authors: van de Pol Nikki
Published: November 2018

This paper traces the semantic development of the English absolute construction from Old to Present-day English on the basis of extensive corpus data. It is observed that the absolute construction developed from a solely adverbial, strictly subordinate construction into a construction with a much larger range of functions, including quasi-coordinate constructions whose ‘addition’ function comes close to that ofand-coordinated finite clauses. This development involves an expansion of clausal status (from subordinate to anywhere between subordinate and quasi-coordinate) and a semantic expansion from typically adverbial meanings to any type of additional information. The process is claimed to have been facilitated by Middle English case loss and arguments for this facilitating role of case loss are adduced. It is then shown how these quasi-coordinate absolute constructions became more and more important as an absolute construction-function over time, as they were well-suited to the absolute construction’s high degree of syntactic independence. This evolution appears to have taken an opposite direction from the development of free adjuncts (Killie & Swann 2009: 339). This observation fits in well with the proposal that Englishing-clauses form a network (Fonteyn & van de Pol 2015) in which each member maintains its own functional niche, rather than engaging in competition with one another.
Vietnamese telephone openings
Authors: Do Hoa , Thuy Giang Tran Huu , Mai Ket
Published: November 2018

This study builds upon Schegloff’s model as a template to investigate the phenomenon of how Vietnamese people perform their
telephone openings. We use a corpus of 50 audio recordings of Vietnamese telephone openings to analyze such a phenomenon through
both Conversation Analysis and Ethnography methods in order to capture the data in naturally-occurring settings, and to provide
insights into Vietnamese culture that makes Vietnamese telephone openings different from North American ones. The findings
demonstrate that Vietnamese telephone openings share some common features with telephone openings in different language
communities, especially North American culture. Nevertheless, a number of variations, due to language and cultural differences,
still exist. We discuss both theoretical and practical implications.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of Mg–8Li–xAl–0.5Ca alloys
Authors: Xiong X. M. , Yang Y. , Ma L. N. , Li M. L. , Ren F. J. , Hu J. W. , Wei G. B. , Peng X. D.
Published: November 2018

The effect of the Al content on the microstructure and mechanical behaviour of Mg–8Li– xAl–0.5Ca alloys is investigated. The experimental results show that an as-cast Mg–8Li–0.5Ca alloy is mainly composed of α-Mg, β-Li and granular Mg2Ca phases. With the addition of Al, the amount of α-Mg phase first increases and then decreases. In addition, the intermetallic compounds also obviously change. The microstructure of the test alloys is refined due to dynamic recrystallisation that occurs during extrusion. The mechanical properties of extruded alloys are much more desirable than the properties of as-cast alloys. The as-extruded Mg–8Li–6Al–0.5Ca alloy exhibits good comprehensive mechanical properties with an ultimate tensile strength of 251.2 MPa, a yield strength of 220.6 MPa and an elongation of 23.5%.
MicroRNA-5195-3p plays a suppressive role in cell proliferation, migration and invasion by targeting MYO6 in human non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Yang Quanfu
Published: November 2018

MiRNA-5195-3p (miR-5195-3p), a recently discovered and poorly studied miRNA, has been reported to suppress bladder cancer cell behavior. However, its regulatory role in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains unclear. Here, the expression of miR-5195-3p was found to be reduced in NSCLC tissues and cells. The in vitro experiments showed that miR-5195-3p upregulation repressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion by CCK-8 and transwell assays. In addition, MYO6 was predicted and confirmed as a potential target of miR-5195-3p by Bioinformatics analysis, Luciferase reporter assay and western blot analysis. There was significantly negative correlation between miR-5195-3p and MYO6 in NSCLC tissues. Furthermore, MYO6 knockdown exhibited similar effects to those of miR-5195-3p overexpression in NSCLC cells, and restored MYO6 expression reversed the inhibitory effects of miR-5195-3p. Therefore, these results demonstrate that miR-5195-3p functions as a tumor suppressor by directly modulating MYO6 expression in NSCLC cells, and may be an innovative candidate target for NSCLC therapy.
Sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolorL.) SbSTOP1 activates the transcription of aβ-1,3-glucanase gene to reduce callose deposition under Al toxicity: A novel pathway for Al tolerance in plants
Authors: Gao Jie , Yan Siqi , Yu Haiye , Zhan Meiqi , Guan Kexing , Wang Yanqiu , Yang Zhenming
Published: November 2018

Aluminum (Al) toxicity is a primary limiting factor for crop production in acid soils. Callose deposition, an early indicator and likely a contributor to Al toxicity, is induced rapidly in plant roots under Al stress. SbGlu1, encoding a β-1,3-glucanase for callose degradation, showed important roles in sorghum Al resistance, yet its regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. The STOP1 transcription factors mediate Al signal transduction in various plants. Here, we identified their homolog in sweet sorghum, SbSTOP1, transcriptionally activated the expression of SbGlu1. Moreover, the DNA sequence recognized by SbSTOP1 on the promoter of SbGlu1 lacked the reported cis-acting element. Complementation lines of Atstop1 with SbSTOP1 revealed enhanced transcription levels of SbGlu1 homologous gene and reduced callose accumulation in Arabidopsis. These results indicate, for the first time, that SbSTOP1 is involved in the modulation of callose deposition under Al stress via transcriptional regulation of a β-1,3-glucanase gene.
Variability in Wall Thickness and Related Structures of Major Dural Sinuses in Posterior Cranial Fossa: A Microscopic Anatomical Study and Clinical Implications
Authors: Balik Vladimir , Uberall Ivo , Sulla Igor , Ehrmann Jiri , Kato Yoko , Sulla Igor J , Takizawa Katsumi
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Regional variability in dural sinus (DS) wall thickness in posterior cranial fossa (PCF) have not been studied in detail yet.

OBJECTIVE

To clarify the possible regional variability in DS wall thickness and determine the occurrence and localization of the chordae Willisii (CW) in PCF.

METHODS

Fifty-nine human cadaveric DSs of PCF were investigated. A measurement of the DS walls/dura mater/CW thickness of parafin-embedded/hematoxylin-eosin stained axial sections was performed by using Cell Sens Science Imaging Software (Olympus Corporation, Tokyo, Japan).

RESULTS

The osseus wall (OW) was the thickest one in the confluens sinuum (CS) and the thinnest one in the jugular bulb (JB) and sigmoid sinus (P < .05). The biggest differences between individual walls were observed in the JB where the superior wall was almost twice as thick as the OW. At the transverse-sigmoid junction, the thickness of the walls was comparable. In the CS and transverse sinuses, the OW was even thicker than the surrounding dura mater. The occurrence and thickness of the CW increased from the JB towards CS and prevailed on the right side. An overall number of the CW in PCF was comparable to that observed in the superior sagittal sinus.

CONCLUSION

The present study displayed for the first time the regional variability in the DS walls thickness and occurrence of the CW in PCF. Application of these findings may afford greater freedom in exposure of the DSs or neoplasms adhering to the DSs.
Brachioradialis Flap for Soft Tissue Coverage of Posterior Elbow Wounds: Case Report and Surgical Technique
Authors: Sabbag Orlando D. , DeDeugd Casey M. , Wagner Eric R. , Elhassan Bassem T.
Published: November 2018

The posterior aspect of the elbow is an area prone to chronic wound complications due to its prominence and the tensile forces resulting from elbow range of motion. In situations in which local wound care fails, various options for soft tissue coverage are available, including the anconeus, lateral arm, radial forearm, extensor carpi radialis longus, and flexor carpi ulnaris flaps. Each option offers unique considerations depending on the complexity and extent of the soft tissue defect. In situations in which coverage of a large defect is required, or when primary soft tissue coverage options fail, an alternative option is the brachioradialis rotational muscle flap. We present a review of the literature, case report, and surgical technique using the brachioradialis muscle for coverage of a large posterior elbow wound after failure of an anconeus flap.
Measles Hospitalizations at a United States Children’s Hospital 2011–2017
Authors: Hester Gabrielle , Nickel Amanda , LeBlanc Julie , Carlson Rebecca , Spaulding Alicen B. , Kalaskar Anupama , Stinchfield Patricia
Published: November 2018

Background:

There are no recent descriptions of measles hospitalizations and complications in US children despite outbreaks within the past decade—including 2 in Minnesota (2011 and 2017). The objective of our study was to describe complications, hospital management and resource utilization for children hospitalized for measles at a US children’s hospital.

Methods:

Retrospective case series of children (0–18 years of age) hospitalized for measles (observation/inpatient diagnosis code for measles) at Children’s Minnesota, January 1, 2011, to September 1, 2017. Descriptive statistics were performed.

Results:

Thirty-three patients were included (7 from 2011 and 21 from 2017 outbreaks). Median age was 27 months (range, 6–95 months), 94% were Black or African American (73% Somali ethnicity), 88% had medical assistance and 91% were unvaccinated to measles. Poor feeding was a primary reason for admission (97%); additional complications included otitis media (42%), pneumonia (30%), tracheitis (6%) and keratitis (3%). Additional testing was common [chest radiographs (70%), blood cultures (64%), nonmeasles viral testing (42%)]. Seventy-three percent received antibiotics, 30% required oxygen and 21% received vitamin A. Median length of stay was 3.7 days (range, 1.1–26.2 days); 1 patient was readmitted. Median direct cost in 2017 was $5291 (interquartile range : $3907–$7519), and estimated total cost to the hospital for the 2017 outbreak was $1.3 million.

Conclusions:

Clinicians should be aware of measles complications and treatment. Public and private health efforts should continue to focus on immunization, given significant implications of measles infections for patients and healthcare systems. Future studies may assess complications of measles across the United States as individual outbreaks often occur in specific populations, making generalization of results challenging.
Impact of Rapid On-demand Molecular Diagnosis of Pediatric Seasonal Influenza on Laboratory Workflow and Testing Costs
Authors: Brotons Pedro , Nogueras Maria-Mercedes , Valls Ana , Larrauri Amparo , Dominguez Angela , Launes Cristian , Luaces-Cubells Carlos , Muñoz-Almagro Carmen
Published: November 2018

Background:

Seasonal influenza imposes a considerable burden worldwide. We aimed to evaluate impact of rapid pediatric seasonal influenza diagnosis on laboratory workflow and cost using a rapid antigen detection-based test combined with either a reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) or the Alere i Influenza A and B (Alere i) assay for confirmation of negative results as well as single Alere i testing on nasopharyngeal aspirates. A secondary objective was assessing performance of Alere i against RT-PCR.

Methods:

Effects of implementing the 3 diagnostic algorithms were assessed in the Emergency Department of Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (Barcelona, Spain) across the 2014–2015, 2015–2016 and 2016–2017 influenza seasons. Alere i performance against RT-PCR was determined during the 2015–2016 epidemic period.

Results:

Median time to result decreased when using Alere i as a confirmatory test of previous antigen detection and RT-PCR results or alone (9.7vs. 3.5/2.0 and 0.7 hours, P < 0.001) along with mean testing costs (€87.3 vs. €38.2 and €25.0, P < 0.001). Results available before patient discharge from the emergency department increased from 42.7% for sequential testing by antigen detection and RT-PCR to 80.0% when Alere i was utilized as a stand-alone test. Alere i sensitivity and specificity values were 96.6% (95% confidence interval: 82.8%–99.4%) and 94.4% (95% confidence interval: 86.6%–97.8%), respectively.

Conclusions:

Rapid Alere i testing facilitated efficient laboratory workflow near the patient during influenza epidemics while contributing cost savings when compared with serial testing by antigen and RT-PCR assays.
Effects of Carbon Dioxide Insufflation and Trendelenburg Position on Brain Oxygenation During Laparoscopy in Children
Authors: Oztan Mustafa O. , Aydin Gaye , Cigsar Emine B. , Sutas Bozkurt Pervin , Koyluoglu Gokhan
Published: November 2018

Purpose:

Laparoscopic appendectomy has become more popular compared with the open appendectomy in children, but there are limited data on the effects of pneumoperitoneum and Trendelenburg position on cerebral oxygenation. This study was designed to evaluate the changes in cerebral saturation using near-infrared spectroscope during laparoscopic surgery in children.

Methods:

The children underwent laparoscopic (LAP Group, n=22) or open appendectomy (OPEN Group, n=22). Right and left cerebral oxygenation (RScO2-LScO2), heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), end-tidal CO2pressure (PETCO2), and peripheral oxygen saturations (SpO2) were recorded between anesthesia induction (T0, baseline), after induction (T1), after intubation (T2), 5 minutes after intubation (T3), 5 minutes after pneumoperitoneum-15th minute at OPEN (T4), 5 minutes after Trendelenburg-20th minute at OPEN (T5), 30 minutes after pneumoperitoneum-45th minute at OPEN (T6), 5 minutes after supine position-skin suturing at OPEN (T7), 5 minutes postextubation (T8).

Results:

Groups were similar with respect to their demographic data. In LAP group, a significant increase in HR was recorded at T5. No significant difference was observed in the MAP, PETCO2, SpO2, RScO2, and LScO2 values between the groups. There was a significant increase in the perioperative T1 to T8 values compared with the T0 values in LScO2 of the LAP group.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that pneumoperitoneum and Trendelenburg position does not alter the hemodynamic values and can be safely performed in children without altering regional brain oxygenation levels.
Mental Simulation of Facial Expressions: Mu Suppression to the Viewing of Dynamic Neutral Face Videos
Authors: Karakale Ozge , Moore Matthew R. , Kirk Ian J.
Published: November 2018

The mirror neuron network (MNN) has been proposed as a neural substrate of action understanding. Electroencephalography (EEG) mu suppression has commonly been studied as an index of MNN activity during execution and observation of hand and finger movements. However, in order to establish its role in higher order processes, such as recognising and sharing emotions, more research using social emotional stimuli is needed. The current study aims to contribute to our understanding of the sensitivity of mu suppression to facial expressions. Modulation of the mu and occipital alpha (8 - 13 Hz) rhythms was calculated in 22 participants while they observed dynamic video stimuli, including emotional (happy and sad) and neutral (mouth opening) facial expressions, and non-biological stimulus (kaleidoscope pattern). Across the four types of stimuli, only the neutral face was associated with a significantly stronger mu suppression than the non-biological stimulus. Occipital alpha suppression was significantly greater in the non-biological stimulus than all the face conditions. Source estimation (sLORETA) analysis comparing the neural sources of mu/alpha modulation between neutral face and non-biological stimulus showed more suppression in the central regions, including the supplementary motor and somatosensory areas, than the more posterior regions. EEG and source estimation results may indicate that reduced availability of emotional information in the neutral face condition requires more sensorimotor engagement in deciphering emotion-related information than the full-blown happy or sad expressions that are more readily recognised.
The parasitic worm product ES-62 normalises the gut microbiota/bone marrow axis in inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Doonan James , Tarafdar Anuradha , Pineda Miguel A. , Lumb Felicity E. , Crowe Jenny , Khan Aneesah M. , Hoskisson Paul A. , Harnett Margaret M. , Harnett William
Published: November 2018

The human immune system has evolved in the context of our colonisation by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasitic helminths. Reflecting this, the rapid eradication of pathogens appears to have resulted in reduced microbiome diversity and generation of chronically activated immune systems, presaging the recent rise of allergic, autoimmune and metabolic disorders. Certainly, gastrointestinal helminths can protect against gut and lung mucosa inflammatory conditions by modulating the microbiome and suppressing the chronic inflammation associated with dysbiosis. Here, we employ ES-62, an immunomodulator secreted by tissue-dwelling Acanthocheilonema viteae to show that modulation of the gut microbiome does not require live infection with gastrointestinal-based helminths nor is protection restricted to mucosal diseases. Specifically, subcutaneous administration of this defined parasitic worm product affords protection against joint disease in collagen-induced arthritis, a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis, which is associated with normalisation of gut microbiota and prevention of loss of intestinal barrier integrity.
A Mechanically Weak Extracellular Membrane-Adjacent Domain Induces Dimerization of Protocadherin-15
Authors: De-la-Torre P. , Choudhary D. , Araya-Secchi R. , Narui Y. , Sotomayor M.
Published: November 2018

The cadherin superfamily of proteins is defined by the presence of extracellular cadherin (EC) repeats that engage in protein-protein interactions to mediate cell-cell adhesion, cell signaling, and mechanotransduction. The extracellular domains of non-classical cadherins often have a large number of EC repeats along with other subdomains of various folds. Protocadherin-15 (PCDH15), a protein component of the inner-ear tip link filament essential for mechanotransduction, has eleven EC repeats and a membrane adjacent domain (MAD12) of atypical fold. Here we report the crystal structure of a pig PCDH15 fragment including EC10, EC11, and MAD12 in a parallel dimeric arrangement. MAD12 has a unique molecular architecture and folds as a ferredoxin-like domain similar to that found in the nucleoporin protein Nup54. Analytical ultracentrifugation experiments along with size exclusion chromatography coupled to multi-angle laser light scattering and small-angle X-ray scattering corroborate the crystallographic dimer and show that MAD12 induces parallel dimerization of PCDH15 near its membrane insertion point. In addition, steered molecular dynamics simulations suggest that MAD12 is mechanically weak and may unfold before tip-link rupture. Sequence analyses and structural modeling predict the existence of similar domains in cadherin-23, protocadherin-24, and the “giant” FAT and CELSR cadherins, indicating that some of them may also exhibit MAD-induced parallel dimerization.
Acquisition, transmission and strain diversity of human gut-colonizing crAss-like phages
Authors: Siranosian Benjamin A. , Tamburini Fiona B. , Sherlock Gavin , Bhatt Ami S.
Published: November 2018

CrAss-like phages are double-stranded DNA viruses that are prevalent in human gut microbiomes. Here, we analyze gut metagenomic data from mother-infant pairs and patients undergoing fecal microbiota transplantation to evaluate the patterns of acquisition, transmission and strain diversity of crAss-like phages. We find that crAss-like phages are rarely detected at birth but are increasingly prevalent in the infant microbiome after one month of life. We observe nearly identical genomes in 50% of cases where the same crAss-like clade is detected in both the mother and the infant, suggesting vertical transmission. In cases of putative transmission of prototypical crAssphage (p-crAssphage), we find that a subset of strains present in the mother are detected in the infant, and that strain diversity in infants increases with time. Strain diversity in the p-crAssphage population in mothers is generally low, with a median of 50 variable sites in the 97kb genome. Putative tail fiber proteins are enriched for nonsynonymous strain variation compared to other genes, suggesting a potential evolutionary benefit to maintaining strain diversity in specific genes. Finally, we show that p-crAssphage can be acquired through fecal microbiota transplantation. These results enhance our understanding of the acquisition, individual-level strain diversity, and transmission of crAss-like phages, which have emerged as some of the most successful human-associated microbes.
STRUCTURE-ACTIVITY STUDIES ON ANALOGUES OF 4-METHYLGUAIACOL, A CATTLE ANAL ODOUR CONSTITUENT REPELLENT TO THE BROWN EAR TICK (Rhipicephalus appendiculatus)
Authors: Kariuki Margaret W. , Hassanali Ahmed , Ng’ang’a Margaret M.
Published: November 2018

Previously, 4-methylguaiacol, a major constituent of cattle anal odour, was found to have a high repellence on Rhipicephalus appendiculatus. In the present study, 10 structural analogues of the phenol were tested for repellence against R. appendiculatus in order to assess the effects of (i) absence or presence of the 4-alkyl group of varying length, (ii) inclusion of a double bond in the 4-alkyl chain, (iii) linking the two phenolic oxygen in a methylenedioxy bridge, (iv) replacement of the OCH3 with CH3 and inclusion of another CH3 at position 6, and (v) presence of an additional OCH3 group at position 6. The analogues comprised of 2-methoxyphenol (guaiacol), 4-ethyl-2- methoxyphenol, 4-propyl-2-methoxyphenol, 4-allyl-2-methoxyphenol (eugenol), 3,4-methylenedioxytoluene, 2,4- dimethylphenol, 4-ethyl-2-methylphenol, 2,4,6-trimethylphenol, 4-propyl-2,6-dimethoxy-phenol and 4-allyl-2,6- dimethoxyphenol, which were compared at different doses in a two-choice climbing assay set up. Each analogue showed either increased or reduced repellence compared with 4-methylguaiacol. The structural feature that was associated with the highest repellence was 4-propyl moiety in the guaiacol unit (RD75 = 0.031 for 4-propyl-2- methoxyphenol; that of 4-methylguaiacol = 0.564). Effects of blending selected analogues with high repellence were also compared. However, none of the blends showed incremental increase in repellence compared with that of 4- propyl-2-methoxyphenol. We are currently evaluating the effects of controlled release of the compound at different sites on cattle on the behavior and success of R. appendiculatus to locate their predilection feeding site.
Solid rocket motor design using a surrogate model
Authors: Tola Ceyhun , Nikbay Melike
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This study aims to determine the relationship between sectional geometric parameters of a slotted solid rocket propellant on structural integrity and internal ballistic performance of a rocket motor by using response surface method.

Design/methodology/approach

Zero-dimensional (0D) ballistic solver is developed and validated to determine the effects of sectional geometric parameters on internal ballistic performance of a rocket motor. Additionally, effects of these parameters on structural strength of the system are examined by performing linear viscoelastic finite element analysis under plane strain assumption. Results of the 0D internal ballistic analyses are used as an input to the structural analysis.

Findings

Different response surfaces are constructed to represent the characteristic variation of solid propellant’s structural strength and internal ballistic performance with respect to design variables.

Originality/value

Coupled analysis methodology in terms of structural strength and internal ballistic performance presented in this work facilitates many designers who are working on solid rocket motor development. This study represents graphical results summarizing effects of sectional parameters of a slotted grain on both internal ballistic performance and structural strength results. Additionally, graphical results summarizing the effects of sectional parameters on structural strength and internal ballistic performance provide useful information for researchers that lessens design period. Finally, validations presented in this work can also be used as a benchmark reference for different studies.
Aircraft positioning using PPP method in GLONASS system
Authors: Krasuski Kamil , C´wiklak Janusz , Jafernik Henryk
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of the study is focused on implementation of Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS) technique in civil aviation for recovery of aircraft position using Precise Point Positioning (PPP) method in kinematic mode.

Design/methodology/approach

The aircraft coordinates of Cessna 172 plane in XYZ geocentric frame were obtained based on GLONASS code and phase observations for PPP method. The numerical computations were executed in post-processing mode in the RTKPOST module in RTKLIB program. The mathematical scheme of equation observation of PPP method was solved using Kalman filter in stochastic processing.

Findings

In paper, the average accuracy of aircraft position is about 0.308 m for X coordinate, 0.274 m for Y coordinate, 0.379 m for Z coordinate. In case of the mean radial spherical error (MRSE) parameter, the average value equals to 0.562 m. In paper, the accuracy of aircraft position in BLh geodesic frame were also showed and described.

Research limitations/implications

The PPP method can be applied for determination the coordinates of receiver, receiver clock bias, Zenith Wet Delay (ZWD) parameter and ambiguity term for each satellite.

Practical implications

The PPP method is a new technique for aircraft positioning in air navigation. The PPP method can be also used in receiver autonomous integrity monitoring (RAIM) module in aircraft-based augmentation system (ABAS) system in air transport. The typical accuracy for recovery the aircraft position is about cm ÷ dm level using the PPP method.

Social implications

The paper is destined for people who work in area of geodesy, navigation, aviation and air transport.

Originality/value

The work presents the original research results of implementation the GLONASS satellite technique for recovery the aircraft position in civil aviation. Currently, the presented research PPP method is used in precise positioning of aircraft in air navigation based on global positioning system and GLONASS solutions.
Client importance, bank risk, and systemic risk
Authors: Li Li , Ma Mary , Song Victor
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of audit client importance on future bank risk and systemic risk in US-listed commercial banks.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use archival research method.

Findings

The authors mainly find that client importance is negatively related with future bank-specific crash risk and distress risk, and also with sector-wide systemic crash risk and systemic distress risk in the future. The authors also report some evidence that these relations become more pronounced during the crisis period than during the non-crisis period. Moreover, the effect of client importance on systemic risk is found to strengthen in banks audited by Big-N auditors, by auditors without clients who restate earnings, and by auditors with more industry expertise.

Research limitations/implications

These findings contribute to the auditing and systemic risk literature.

Practical implications

This study has implications for regulating the banking industry.

Originality/value

This study provides original evidence on how client importance affects bank-specific risk and systemic risk of the banking industry.
Preaching to the middle of the road
Authors: Armstrong Soule Catherine Anne , Sekhon Tejvir
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore strategic differences in marketing communication tactics for vegan and humane meat brands.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis was used to categorize the types of persuasive appeals used on the packaging of vegan and humane meat brands.

Findings

Humane meat brands use animal welfare and environmental appeals more often whereas vegan brands use taste appeals more frequently.

Social implications

Marketers’ communication strategies for alternatives to traditional meat consumption are different from those of activists and non-profit organizations. By targeting middle of the road consumers, both vegan and humane brands can support widespread efficient and curtailment behaviors and in the process benefit consumers, the brands and society.

Originality/value

Anti-consumption and/or reduction of meat and animal by-products are arguably the most impactful ways in which consumers can alter their diets to positively impact individual and societal well-being. Consumers seeking alternatives to traditional meat consumption may either chose more sustainable meat products (efficient behaviors) or reduce/eliminate meat consumption (curtailment behaviors). Existing research suggests that such consumers can be divided into two segments – those driven by personal motives (health and/or taste) and those motivated by prosocial concern (environmental sustainability and/or animal welfare) and brands should match persuasive appeals to consumer motives, i.e. curtailment-focused vegan brands should use environmental or animal justice appeals and efficiency-focused humane meat brands should use taste or health appeals. However, the present research assumes marketers’ perspective and demonstrates that both vegan and humane brands target middle of the road consumers striving to balance multiple personal and prosocial goals, being socially responsible without compromising taste.