bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
e-ASPECTS derived acute ischemic volumes on non-contrast-enhanced computed tomography images
Authors: Nagel Simon , Joly Olivier , Pfaff Johannes , Papanagiotou Panagiotis , Fassbender Klaus , Reith Wolfgang , Möhlenbruch Markus A , Herweh Christian , Grunwald Iris Q
Published: October 2019

Background and purpose

Validation of automatically derived acute ischemic volumes (AAIV) from e-ASPECTS on non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT).

Materials and methods

Data from three studies were reanalyzed with e-ASPECTS Version 7. AAIV was calculated in milliliters (ml) in all scored ASPECTS regions of the hemisphere detected by e-ASPECTS. The National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) determined stroke severity at baseline and clinical outcome was measured with the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) between 45 and 120 days. Spearman ranked correlation coefficients (R) of AAIV and e-ASPECTS scores with NIHSS and mRS as well as Pearson correlation of AAIV with diffusion-weighted imaging and CT perfusion-estimated ischemic “core” volumes were calculated. Multivariate regression analysis (odds ratio, OR with 95% confidence intervals, CI) and Bland–Altman plots were performed.

Results

We included 388 patients. Mean AAIV was 11.6 ± 18.9 ml and e-ASPECTS was 9 (8–10: median and interquartile range). AAIV, respectively e-ASPECTS correlated with NIHSS at baseline (R = 0.35, p < 0.001; R = −0.36, p < 0.001) and follow-up mRS (R = 0.29, p < 0.001; R = −0.3, p < 0.001). In subsets of patients, AAIV correlated strongly with diffusion-weighted imaging ( n = 37, R = 0.68, p < 0.001) and computed tomography perfusion-derived ischemic “core” ( n = 41, R = 0.76, p < 0.001) lesion volume and Bland–Altman plots showed a bias close to zero (−2.65 ml for diffusion-weighted imaging and 0.45 ml forcomputed tomography perfusion “core”). Within the whole cohort, the AAIV (OR 0.98 per ml, 95% CI 0.96–0.99) and e-ASPECTS scores (OR 1.3, 95%CI 1.07–1.57) were independent predictors of good outcome

Conclusion

AAIV on NCCT correlated moderately with clinical severity but strongly with diffusion-weighted imaging lesion and computed tomography perfusion ischemic “core” volumes and predicted clinical outcome.
An observational study of ad-hoc anaesthesia teams
Authors: Birkestam Anderz MW , Öster Caisa , Arakelian Erebouni
Published: October 2019

Background

Anaesthesia teams are temporarily assembled to cooperate with teams in emergency departments in the immediate management of events compromising patients’ airway, ventilation and circulation.

Purpose

The aim was to describe a temporary ad-hoc anaesthesia team’s performance.

Design

An observational study was conducted.

Methods

Data, collected with 12 non-participatory observations, were analysed using both an thematic method, and a validated assessment tool, the Team Emergency Assessment Measure.

Results

Three themes were identified: (1) flexibility in assuming varying roles, (2) expertise in verbal and non-verbal communication and (3) skills dealing with the challenges of working in unfamiliar dynamic environments. Ninety per cent of anaesthesia teams scored 7.6 (0–10) on the overall assessment according to the Team Emergency Assessment Measure rating.

Conclusion

Ad-hoc anaesthesia team members communicated in various ways and the anaesthesia team adapted well to the unpredictable environment in the emergency department.
Diathermy smoke shown to be hazardous, so why are we not protecting ourselves?
Authors: Stanley Kirsty
Published: October 2019

Diathermy smoke has been studied for over three decades and data has been collected to establish its composition. Although its full structure has not been established, the compounds confirmed pose a health hazard to all exposed. Recommendations suggest that theatre staff need to protect themselves using smoke evacuating systems and masks. This review looks at the compliance of theatre staff within these guidelines and the reasons behind noncompliance.
Photobiomodulation Therapy Partially Restores Cartilage Integrity and Reduces Chronic Pain Behavior in a Rat Model of Osteoarthritis: Involvement of Spinal Glial Modulation
Authors: Balbinot Gustavo , Schuch Clarissa Pedrini , Nascimento Patricia Severo do , Lanferdini Fabio Juner , Casanova Mayra , Baroni Bruno Manfredini , Vaz Marco Aurélio
Published: October 2019

Objective

Chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA) often leads to reduced function and engagement in activities of daily living. Current pharmacological treatments remain relatively ineffective. This study investigated the efficacy of photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) on cartilage integrity and central pain biomarkers in adult male Wistar rats.

Design

We evaluated the cartilage degradation and spinal cord sensitization using the monoiodoacetate (MIA) model of OA following 2 weeks of delayed PBMT treatment (i.e., 15 days post-MIA). Multiple behavioral tests and knee joint histology were used to assess deficits related to OA. Immunohistochemistry was performed to assess chronic pain sensitization in spinal cord dorsal horn regions. Furthermore, we analyzed the principal components related to pain-like behavior and cartilage integrity.

Results

MIA induced chronic pain-like behavior with respective cartilage degradation. PBMT had no effects on overall locomotor activity, but positive effects on weight support ( P = 0.001; effect size [ES] = 1.01) and mechanical allodynia ( P = 0.032; ES = 0.51). Greater optical densitometry of PBMT-treated cartilage was evident in superficial layers ( P = 0.020; ES = 1.34), likely reflecting the increase of proteoglycan and chondrocyte contents. In addition, PBMT effects were associated to decreased contribution of spinal glial cells to pain-like behavior ( P = 0.001; ES = 0.38).

Conclusion

PBMT during the chronic phase of MIA-induced OA promoted cartilage recovery and reduced the progression or maintenance of spinal cord sensitization. Our data suggest a potential role of PBMT in reducing cartilage degradation and long-term central sensitization associated with chronic OA.
Use of Electronic Patient Reported Outcomes in Clinical Nephrology Practice: A Qualitative Pilot Study
Authors: Schick-Makaroff Kara , Tate Kaitlyn , Molzahn Anita
Published: October 2019

Background:

Use of patient-reported outcome measures (PROM) in clinical practice can offer clinicians important information about the impact of illness on patients and their quality of life. Electronic reporting of patient-reported outcomes (ePROs) provide quick access of this information to the health care team. Although this type of information is acknowledged to be critical to not only improving the quality of care but also involving patients in care planning, little is known about how ePRO reports can be used in nephrology clinics to enhance person-centered care.

Objective:

The purpose of this research was to examine how ePROs were used in home dialysis clinics.

Design:

A pilot qualitative research design was employed.

Setting:

The study was conducted in 2 home dialysis clinics over 6 months.

Patients:

A total of 99 home dialysis patients and 12 nurses participated in the study.

Measurements:

Patients completed 2 ePROs (the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System revised for renal patients and Kidney Disease Quality of Life-36) prior to their clinic appointment, and results were given to their health care providers. Nurses saw patients first, along with ePRO data. Patients and nurses consented to having their clinic interactions observed and audio recorded (n = 169).

Methods:

Summative content analysis was used to synthesize the data.

Results:

The ePRO data were used to discuss 24 specific issues (brought up a total of 456 times over 165 interactions), most frequently: itchiness (n = 55), appetite (n = 51), problems with sleeping (n = 50), tiredness (n = 46), and shortness of breath (n = 45) as well as overall patient health and the general effects of kidney disease on the patient’s daily life. The issues that most often prompted a change in care plan, referral to another health care professional, or further assessment included itching (n = 23), depression (n = 18), tiredness (n = 13), sleeping (n = 12), anxiety (n = 11), and disease interfering with daily life (n = 7).

Limitations:

Limitations include the duration of follow-up (6 months), the restriction to 2 home dialysis clinics, and the potential for the Hawthorne effect due to observation.

Conclusions:

Use of these ePROs in the home dialysis clinics provided useful information that guided focused assessments and augmented standard assessments to support person-centered care. Further studies are warranted to identify whether this practice offers benefits over usual care.
Validation of a wearable biosensor device for vital sign monitoring in septic emergency department patients in Rwanda
Authors: Garbern Stephanie C , Mbanjumucyo Gabin , Umuhoza Christian , Sharma Vinay K , Mackey James , Tang Oliver , Martin Kyle D , Twagirumukiza Francois R , Rosman Samantha L , McCall Natalie , Wegerich Stephan W , Levine Adam C
Published: October 2019

Objective

Critical care capabilities needed for the management of septic patients, such as continuous vital sign monitoring, are largely unavailable in most emergency departments (EDs) in low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and accuracy of using a wireless wearable biosensor device for continuous vital sign monitoring in ED patients with suspected sepsis in an LMIC setting.

Methods

This was a prospective observational study of pediatric (≥2 mon) and adult patients with suspected sepsis at the Kigali University Teaching Hospital ED. Heart rate, respiratory rate and temperature measurements were continuously recorded using a wearable biosensor device for the duration of the patients’ ED course and compared to intermittent manually collected vital signs.

Results

A total of 42 patients had sufficient data for analysis. Mean duration of monitoring was 32.8 h per patient. Biosensor measurements were strongly correlated with manual measurements for heart rate (r = 0.87, p <  0.001) and respiratory rate (r = 0.75, p <  0.001), although were less strong for temperature (r = 0.61, p <  0.001). Mean (SD) differences between biosensor and manual measurements were 1.2 (11.4) beats/min, 2.5 (5.5) breaths/min and 1.4 (1.0)°C. Technical or practical feasibility issues occurred in 12 patients (28.6%) although were minor and included biosensor detachment, connectivity problems, removal for a radiologic study or exam, and patient/parent desire to remove the device.

Conclusions

Wearable biosensor devices can be feasibly implemented and provide accurate continuous heart rate and respiratory rate monitoring in acutely ill pediatric and adult ED patients with sepsis in an LMIC setting.
Large-Scale Assessments, Personalized Learning, and Creativity: Paradoxes and Possibilities
Authors: Beghetto Ronald A.
Published: October 2019

Purpose:

This article, based on an invited talk, aims to explore the relationship among large-scale assessments, creativity and personalized learning.

Design/Approach/Methods:

Starting with the working definition of large-scale assessments, creativity, and personalized learning, this article identified the paradox of combining these three components together. As a consequence, a logic mode of large-scale assessment and creativity expressions is illustrated, along with an exploration of new possibilities.

Findings:

Smarter design of large-scale assessments is needed. Firstly, we need to assess creative learning at the individual level, so complex tasks with high uncertainty should be presented to students. Secondly, additional process and experiential data while students are working on problems need to be captured. Thirdly, the human-artificial intelligence (AI) augmented scoring should be explored, developed, and refined.

Originality/Value:

This article addresses the drawbacks of current large-scale assessments and explores possibilities for combining assessment with creativity and personalized learning. A logic model illustrating variations necessary for creative learning and considerations and cautions for designing large-scale assessments are also provided.
Acupressure and Therapeutic Touch in Childhood Cancer to Promote Subjective and Intersubjective Experiences of Well-being During Curative Treatment
Authors: Hu Hiroe , Shear Deborah , Thakkar Radhika , Thompson-Lastad Ariana , Pinderhughes Howard , Hecht Frederick M , Lown E Anne
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Acupressure and therapeutic touch may be beneficial for symptom management and increasing general well-being for children undergoing cancer treatment. Acupressure has the benefit of stimulating targeted acupuncture points while providing therapeutic touch. We sought to explore the relationship between acupressure and the experience of well-being among children being treated for cancer who received acupressure.

Methods

In the Acupressure for Children in Treatment for a Childhood Cancer trial, hospitalized children received acupressure using specified acupressure points for symptom control as well as points for general well-being. Acupressure was delivered by professionals and by caregivers, following training by the professional. Qualitative data were collected through semistructured interviews with a purposive sample of professional acupressure providers (n = 3) and primary caregivers (n = 13), combined with participant observation during the acupressure intervention. Data were analyzed using grounded theory methods.

Results

Analysis of provider interview, caregiver interview, and participation observation yielded 3 prominent themes: (1) well-being elicited by acupressure, (2) well-being elicited by touch, and (3) well-being experienced as relational and intersubjective. These themes, taken together, illustrate the intricate ways in which an intervention like acupressure can help alleviate the difficulties of a childhood cancer illness experience by promoting well-being in the child as well as the caregiver. Acupressure brought symptom relief, physical relaxation, and comforting touch to the child, allowing the caregiver to also feel relief and relaxation as caregiver–child experience of well-being are closely intertwined.

Conclusions

Data from the 3 sources provided distinct and overlapping insights suggesting the versatile benefits of acupressure in promoting well-being during childhood cancer treatment. Professional acupressure combined with training of caregivers for childhood cancer may be a relational intervention that facilitates the experience of well-being for both the caregiver and the child.
A systematic review of economic evaluations in non-insulin antidiabetic treatments for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zozaya Néboa , Capel Margarita , Simón Susana , Soto-González Alfonso
Published: October 2019

The approval of new non-insulin treatments has broadened the therapeutic arsenal, but it has also increased the complexity of choice for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2). The objective of this study was to systematically review the literature on economic evaluations associated with non-insulin antidiabetic drugs (NIADs) for DM2. We searched in Medline, IBECS, Doyma and SciELO databases for full economic evaluations of NIADs in adults with DM2 applied after the failure of the first line of pharmacological treatment, published between 2010 and 2017, focusing on studies that incorporated quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). The review included a total of 57 studies, in which 134 comparisons were made between NIADs. Under an acceptability threshold of 25,000 euros per QALY gained, iSLGT-2 were preferable to iDPP-4 and sulfonylureas in terms of incremental cost-utility. By contrast, there were no conclusive comparative results for the other two new NIAD groups (GLP-1 and iDPP-4). The heterogeneity of the studies’ methodologies and results hindered our ability to determine under what specific clinical assumptions some NIADs would be more cost-effective than others. Economic evaluations of healthcare should be used as part of the decision-making process, so multifactorial therapeutic management strategies should be established based on the patients’ clinical characteristics and preferences as principal criteria.
Time Series Analysis of Interest Rates Volatility and Stock Returns in Ghana
Authors: Ahiadorme Johnson Worlanyo , Sonyo Emmanuel , Ahiase Godwin
Published: October 2019

The study utilized time series analysis models and employed the Johansen’s cointegration procedure and the vector error correction model to examine the short-run and long-run dynamics of the relationship between interest rates and stock market returns. The results of this study show that contrary to popular evidence from extant research, interest rate changes positively and significantly affect stock market returns in the long run and the deviation from the long-run equilibrium is corrected each period following a shock to the stock market in the short run. The positive linkages between interest rate changes and stock market outturns may be explained by the relative strength of banking stocks on the Ghana Stock Exchange. The analysis shows that as the long-run equilibrium is approached, the deviations in the short term decrease significantly.
DNA Methylation Validation Methods: a Coherent Review with Practical Comparison
Authors: Šestáková Šárka , Šálek Cyril , Remešová Hana
Published: October 2019

Here, we present a practical overview of four commonly used validation methods for DNA methylation assessment: methylation specific restriction endonucleases (MSRE) analysis, pyrosequencing, methylation specific high-resolution DNA melting (MS-HRM) and quantitative methylation specific polymerase chain reaction (qMSP). Using these methods, we measured DNA methylation levels of three loci in human genome among which one was highly methylated, one intermediately methylated and one unmethylated. We compared the methods in terms of primer design demands, methods’ feasibility, accuracy, time and money consumption, and usability for clinical diagnostics.

Pyrosequencing and MS-HRM proved to be the most convenient methods. Using pyrosequencing, it is possible to analyze every CpG in a chosen region. The price of the instrument may represent the main limitation of this methodology. MS-HRM is a simple PCR-based method. The measurement was quick, cheap and very accurate. MSRE analysis is based on a methylation specific digestion of DNA. It does not require a bisulfite conversion of DNA as the other methods. MSRE analysis was very easy to perform, however, it was not suitable for intermediately methylated regions and it was also quite expensive. qMSP is a qPCR-based method that uses primers designed specifically for methylated and unmethylated alleles of a chosen region. This was the least accurate method and also the primer design and optimization of PCR conditions were highly demanding.
The effect of BACE1-AS on β-amyloid generation by regulating BACE1 mRNA expression
Authors: Li Fan , Wang Yun , Yang Hui , Xu Yingying , Zhou Xiaoyan , Zhang Xiao , Xie Zhaohong , Bi Jianzhong
Published: October 2019

Background

The BACE1 antisense transcript (BACE1-AS) is a conserved long noncoding RNA (lncRNA). The level of BACE1-AS is significantly increased and the level of the BACE1 mRNA is slightly increased in subjects with AD. BACE1-AS exerts a significant moderating effect on the expression of the BACE1 mRNA and promotes the formation of Aβ. After the administration of Aβ1-42 to SH-SY5Y cells and C57/BL6J mice, we detected the expression of BACE1-AS, BACE1 mRNA, and BACE1 protein, as well as the concentration of Aβ1-40. Then, we silenced the expression of BACE1-AS in SH-SY5Y and 20E2 cells using siRNAs targeting BACE1-AS and detected its effects on the levels of the BACE1 mRNA and BACE1 protein and Aβ1-40 generation.

Results

The administration of Aβ1-42 increased the expression of BACE1-AS, BACE1 mRNA and protein, as well as the concentration of Aβ1-40 in SH-SY5Y cells and the brains of C57BL/6J mice. Pretreatment with the BACE1-AS siRNA inhibited the effect of Aβ1-42 on increasing the expression of BACE1-AS and BACE1, as well as the generation of Aβ.

Conclusions

The mechanism by which exogenous Aβ1-42 induces BACE1 expression and Aβ generation is mediated by BACE1-AS. BACE1-AS is involved in the mechanism regulating BACE1 expression and Aβ generation in APPsw transgenic cells.
Circular RNA CDR1as sponges miR-7-5p to enhance E2F3 stability and promote the growth of nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Zhong Qiong , Huang Juncong , Wei Jiawang , Wu Renrui
Published: October 2019

Background

Circular RNA (circRNA) CDR1as plays an important role in the occurrence and development of human tumors. The purpose of this study is to investigate the molecular mechanism of circRNA CDR1as in the development of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

The mRNA expressions of circRNA CDR1as, miR-7-5p, and E2F3 were detected by qRT-PCR. The effects of circRNA CDR1as, miR-7-5p, and E2F3 on NPC cells were investigated using cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) method, colony formation assay, and representative metabolite assay. The molecular mechanism of circRNA CDR1 in NPC was studied by bioinformatics and luciferase reporter assay. In addition, the biological activity of circRNA CDR1as was also investigated in NPC xenograft tumor mice model.

Results

The results showed that the circRNA CDR1as expression was significantly up-regulated in NPC tissues by comparison with non-tumor NPE tissues (p < 0.01), suggesting that circRNA CDR1as was associated with poor prognosis in NPC patients. Moreover, circRNA CDR1as could up-regulate E2F3 expression by binding miR-7-5p, and promote the growth and glucose metabolism of NPC cells. Meanwhile, circRNA CDR1as could promote NPC progression through the negative regulation of miR-7-5p in the xenograft tumor model.

Conclusion

CircRNA CDR1as promoted the occurrence and development of NPCs by successively up-regulating the expression of miR-7-5p and E2F3, suggesting CircRNA CDR1as as a potential target for the treatment of NPC patients.

Trial registration The study was approved by the cancer center’s institutional research ethics committee on Oct 18, 2008 (2008GZ2847462)
Human exposure to Anopheles farauti bites in the Solomon Islands is not associated with IgG antibody response to the gSG6 salivary protein of Anopheles gambiae
Authors: Pollard Edgar J. M. , Patterson Catriona , Russell Tanya L. , Apairamo Alan , Oscar Jance , Arcà Bruno , Drakeley Chris , Burkot Thomas R.
Published: October 2019

Background

Mosquito saliva elicits immune responses in humans following mosquito blood feeding. Detection of human antibodies recognizing the Anopheles gambiae salivary gland protein 6 (gSG6) or the gSG6-P1 peptide in residents of Africa, South America and Southeast Asia suggested the potential for these antibodies to serve as a universal marker to estimate human biting rates. Validating the utility of this approach requires concurrent comparisons of anopheline biting rates with antibodies to the gSG6 protein to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the assay for monitoring changes in vector populations. This study investigated whether seroprevalence of anti-gSG6 antibodies in humans reflected the relative exposure to Anopheles farauti bites in the Solomon Islands as estimated from sympatric human landing catches.

Methods

Human biting rates by An. farauti were estimated by landing catches at 10 sampling sites in each of 4 villages during the wet and dry seasons. Human serum samples from these same villages were also collected during the wet and dry seasons and analysed for antibody recognition of the gSG6 antigen by the Luminex xMAP© platform. Antibody titres and prevalence were compared to HLCs at the sampling sites nearest to participants’ residences for utility of anti-gSG6 antibodies to estimate human exposure to anopheline bites.

Results

In this study in the Solomon Islands only 11% of people had very high anti-gSG6 antibody titres, while other individuals did not recognize gSG6 despite nightly exposures of up to 190 bites by An. farauti. Despite clear spatial differences in the human biting rates within and among villages, associations between anti-gSG6 antibody titres and biting rates were not found.

Conclusions

Few studies to date have concurrently measured anopheline biting rates and the prevalence of human antibodies to gSG6. The lack of association between anti-gSG6 antibody titres and concurrently measured human biting rates suggests that the assay for human anti-gSG6 antibodies lacks sufficient sensitivity to be a biomarker of An. farauti exposure at an epidemiologically relevant scale. These findings imply that an improvement in the sensitivity of serology to monitor changes in anopheline biting exposure may require the use of saliva antigens from local anophelines, and this may be especially true for species more distantly related to the African malaria vector An. gambiae.
Babao Dan attenuates acute ethanol-induced liver injury via Nrf2 activation and autophagy
Authors: Yu Yang , Tian Zhi-qiang , Liang Lei , Yang Xue , Sheng Dan-dan , Zeng Jian-xing , Li Xiao-yong , Shi Rong-yu , Han Zhi-peng , Wei Li-xin
Published: October 2019

Background

Babao Dan (BBD), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been used as a complementary and alternative medicine to treat multifarious liver diseases. In this study, we aimed to observe its protective effect on ethanol-induced liver injury and explore potential mechanisms.

Methods

Mice pretreated with BBD (0.125, 0.25 and 0.5 g/kg BW) were administrated by ethanol gavage (5 g/kg BW). Liver injury biomarkers and hepatic redox parameters were evaluated by histopathology as well as serum and hepatic content analysis. AML-12 cell was also utilized to determine the efficacy of BBD against ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity.

Results

Drunkenness experiment showed that the latency was significantly increased and the drunken sleep time was decreased in mice pretreated with BBD. We then found that BBD could reduce hepatic lipid peroxidation and steatosis induced by ethanol exposure. BBD could also suppress ethanol-induced depletion of hepatic antioxidant enzyme. Besides that, BBD treatment lessened the induction of hepatic cytochrome P450 2E1, a major contributor to ethanol-mediated oxidative stress, and up-regulated the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 and its two transcriptional targets hemeoxygenase-1 and glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit. Furthermore, autophagy induced by BBD contributed to hepatoprotection activity.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that BBD can markedly dispel acute ethanol-induced hepatotoxicity through multiple pathways including attenuation of ethanol-mediated oxidative stress, enhancement of the oxidative defense systems and activation of autophagy.
Global existence of solution for multidimensional generalized double dispersion equation
Authors: Dai Xiaoqiang
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we study the Cauchy problem of multidimensional generalized double dispersion equation. To prove the global existence of solutions, we introduce some new methods and ideas, and fill some gaps in the established results.
A new parallel difference algorithm based on improved alternating segment Crank–Nicolson scheme for time fractional reaction–diffusion equation
Authors: Yang Xiaozhong , Dang Xu
Published: October 2019

The fractional reaction–diffusion equation has profound physical and engineering background, and its rapid solution research is of important scientific significance and engineering application value. In this paper, we propose a parallel computing method of mixed difference scheme for time fractional reaction–diffusion equation and construct a class of improved alternating segment Crank–Nicolson (IASC–N) difference schemes. The class of parallel difference schemes constructed in this paper, based on the classical Crank–Nicolson (C–N) scheme and classical explicit and implicit schemes, combines with alternating segment techniques. We illustrate the unique existence, unconditional stability, and convergence of the parallel difference scheme solution theoretically. Numerical experiments verify the theoretical analysis, which shows that the IASC–N scheme has second order spatial accuracy and $2-\alpha $
2
−
α
order temporal accuracy, and the computational efficiency is greatly improved compared with the implicit scheme and C–N scheme. The IASC–N scheme has ideal computation accuracy and obvious parallel computing properties, showing that the IASC–N parallel difference method is effective for solving time fractional reaction–diffusion equation.
Evaluation of Alpinia galanga (Zingiberaceae) extracts and isolated trans-cinnamic acid on some mosquitoes larvae
Authors: Poonsri Waraporn , Pengsook Anchulee , Pluempanupat Wanchai , Yooboon Thitaree , Bullangpoti Vasakorn
Published: October 2019

Background

Mosquitoes are vectors for diseases damaging human health and thus, there is an urgent need for insecticidal compounds to control their population. The objective of this study was to determined the efficiency fromtrans-cinnamic acid isolated fromAlpinia galanga(Zingiberales: Zingiberaceae) for control ofAedes aegypti(Dipetera: Culicidae),Anopheles dirusB (Dipetera: Culicidae) andCulex quinquefasciatus(Dipetera: Culicidae).

Methods

Alpinia galanga(Zingiberales:Zingiberaceae) was extracted by soaking in a sequence of solvents (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and methanol), and the isolatedtrans-cinnamic was separated by preparative thin layer chromatography. All crude extracts and isolatedtrans-cinnamic were evaluated for their control and affect on detoxification enzyme activities of the third-instar larvae of each mosquito species in laboratory conditions.

Results

Our results showed that the hexane crude extract had the best control efficiency in all species, particularly inCx. quinquefasciatus. Thetrans-cinnamic acid, isolated compound from hexane crude extract showed as active ingredient against third-instar larvae of each mosquito species. Mortality in this case may result from the inhibition of carboxylesterase.

Conclusion

These results indicated thatA. galangawhich hadtrans-cinnamic acid as active ingredient compound could represent a promising naturally occurring control agent for all three mosquito species. However, this research consider as an initial prospective study, the other side effect on nontarget species need to concerned before used as commercial product.
Investigation of hole-free phase plate performance in transmission electron microscopy under different operation conditions by experiments and simulations
Authors: Pretzsch Rebecca , Dries Manuel , Hettler Simon , Spiecker Martin , Obermair Martin , Gerthsen Dagmar
Published: October 2019

Hole-free phase plates (HFPPs), also known as Volta phase plates, were already demonstrated to be well suited for in-focus transmission electron microscopy imaging of organic objects. However, the underlying physical processes have not been fully understood yet. To further elucidate the imaging properties of HFPPs, phase shift measurements were carried out under different experimental conditions. Both positive and negative phase shifts occur depending on the diameter of the zero-order electron beam and the HFPP film temperature. The analysis of Thon ring patterns of an amorphous carbon test sample reveals that the phase-shifting patch can be significantly larger than the size of the zero-order beam on the HFPP film. An HFPP was used for in-focus phase contrast imaging of carbon nanotube (CNT) bundles under positive and negative phase-shifting conditions. The comparison of experimental and simulated images of CNT bundles gives detailed information on the phase shift profile, which depends on the spatial frequency in the vicinity of the zero-order beam. The shape of the phase shift profile also explains halo-like image artifacts that surround the imaged objects.
A rare case of bevacizumab-related osteonecrosis of the jaw associated with dental implants
Authors: Maluf Gustavo , Caldas Rogério Jardim , Fregnani Eduardo Rodrigues , da Silva Santos Paulo Sérgio
Published: October 2019

Background

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is characterized by the development of bone necrosis in the jaws of patients receiving antiresorptive and/or antiangiogenic medications. No scientific reports have been published yet on bevacizumab-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BeRONJ) when associated with dental implant placement and adjuvant ozone therapy.

Case presentation

A 54-year-old female patient with a history of metastatic breast cancer and bevacizumab use presented with a dental infection. Dental extraction followed immediately by dental implant placement was planned after suspension of the bevacizumab treatment. The patient presented with pain, drainage of purulent secretion, and bone exposure 5 weeks post-surgery. Complete healing was achieved at postoperative 7 months.

Conclusions

The combination of adjuvant ozone therapy and surgical debridement was effective for the treatment of MRONJ; however, the risk of MRONJ may persist after the suspension of bevacizumab for 28 days.
Blood-glucose levels in newborn piglets and the associations between blood-glucose levels, intrauterine growth restriction and pre-weaning mortality
Authors: Staarvik Trude , Framstad Tore , Heggelund Mina , Brynjulvsrud Fremgaarden Sunniva , Kielland Camilla
Published: October 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the associations between blood-glucose levels in one-day-old-piglets (ODOP), intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and pre-weaning mortality in a commercial piglet-producing herd in Norway.

Material and methods

The study was carried out in a non-crate commercial piglet-producing herd in Norway and 426 live born piglets from 31 litters were included. Piglets were blood-sampled, ear tagged, weighed and measured within 24 h after birth. Litter size, cross fostering and deaths until weaning were recorded. Blood was collected by vein puncture ofVena subcutanea abdominisand blood-glucose levels were measured using a handheld glucometer. Piglets were given an IUGR-score (1–3) based on head-morphology where a score of 3 is defined as an intrauterine growth restricted piglet.

Results

Of the 426 live born piglets, 391 piglets survived until weaning, resulting in 8.22% pre-weaning mortality. Mean piglet weight in ODOP was 1.59 kg (SD = 0.36), and mean blood-glucose level was 5.48 mmol/l (SD = 1.44). IUGR score 3 piglets had lower blood-glucose levels (Coef. = − 1.7 mmol/l,P < .001) than normal piglets (IUGR score 1). Males had significantly higher blood glucose levels (Coef. = 0.23 mmol/l,P = .044) compared to females. There was a trend that blood-glucose levels in individual piglets were lower in large litters with − 0.07 mmol/l per extra piglet born (P = .054). Piglets with blood-glucose levels in the second quartile had reduced risk of pre-weaning mortality (OR = 0.32,P = .046) compared to piglets with blood-glucose levels in the lower quartile. This is also true for piglets in the third and fourth quartile (OR = 0.13,P = 0.004).

Conclusion

This study identified IUGR to be associated with low blood-glucose levels in ODOP. It also found increased pre-weaning mortality in ODOP with low blood-glucose. By identifying IUGR piglets by the shape of their head, piglet producers may reduce pre-weaning mortality by making sure these piglets get enough colostrum, milk or supplement feeding (i.e. energy).
Study of pathogenicity and severity of Lactococcus garvieae isolated from rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) farms in Kohkilooieh and Boyerahmad province
Authors: Karami Esmaeil , Alishahi Mojtaba , Molayemraftar Taravat , Ghorbanpour Masoud , Tabandeh Mohammad Reza , Mohammadian Takavar
Published: October 2019

Background

Lactococcus garvieae is one of the most important risk factors in the rainbow trout culture. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify and detect strains isolated from rainbow trout suspected of having Lactococcus garvieae using biochemical characteristics and PCR and determination of the degree of severity of isolated strains.

Methods

In this study, the cause of lactococcosis in selected rainbow trout farms in Kohkilooieh and Boyerahmad province was assayed. Gram-positive and catalase-negative bacterial isolates were first obtained from selected trout fish farms using conventional biochemical tests and PCR assay. The 10-day LD50 method (concentration causing 50% mortality in 10 days) was used to determine the severity of the isolated bacteria.

Results

One bacterial isolate was detected from all sampled fish which confirmed as Lactococcus garvieae using a specific PCR assay based on the 16S rDNA gene by producing a single band of 1107 bp. Analysis of the rate of mortality showed that the 10-day LD50 was 4.6 × 105 CFU/fish. The results of this study showed that isolated bacteria had high severity for rainbow trout. The presence of bacteria in internal organs of suspected fish showed a severe systemic infection in challenged fish. Antibiogram assay also indicated that the isolated Lactococcus garvieae were resistant to some mostly used antibiotics in rainbow trout.

Conclusions

According to current research, it can be concluded that the condition of lactococcosis in the studied area is not suitable, and despite the presence of disease, there is no proper action to control and prevent the disease. Unfortunately, isolated bacteria from the studied area have a very high severity compared to bacteria isolated from other regions of the country or other countries. Therefore, further investigation is needed to determine the cause of this difference and possibly in the design of the vaccine.
Prevalence of cerebral microbleeds and other cardiovascular risk factors in elderly patients with acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Ibrahim Abeer Abdelzaher , Ibrahim Yosra Abdelzaher , Darwish Eman A. , Khater Nivan Hany
Published: October 2019

Background

Cerebral microbleeds are small, round dark-signal foci in the T2*-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. They are encountered in cerebral amyloid angiopathy and hypertensive vasculopathy. Their prevalence is common in ischemic stroke and cerebral hemorrhage. The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence of CMBs and associated risk factors in the elderly patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Results

Cerebral microbleeds were significantly associated with the presence of hypertension (in the subgroup of recurrent stroke) and with hypercholesterolemia. There was a significant association between the number of the microbleeds and severity of white matter lesions as a higher number of microbleeds related to more severe white matter lesions. The microbleeds were more prevalent in the group of patients using antithrombotics.

Conclusion

Age, hypercholesterolemia, and the use of antithrombotics emerged as the most important associated risk factors for the presence of CMBs. On MRI, there was a significant association between the number of CMBs and severity of white matter lesions as a higher number of CMBs related to more severe white matter lesions.
Lats1 and Lats2 are required for the maintenance of multipotency in the Müllerian duct mesenchyme
Authors: St-Jean Guillaume , Tsoi Mayra , Abedini Atefeh , Levasseur Adrien , Rico Charlène , Morin Martin , Djordjevic Bojana , Miinalainen Ilkka , Kaarteenaho Riitta , Paquet Marilène , Gévry Nicolas , Boyer Alexandre , Vanderhyden Barbara , Boerboom Derek
Published: October 2019

WNT signaling plays essential roles in the development and function of the female reproductive tract. Although crosstalk with the Hippo pathway is a key regulator of WNT signaling, whether Hippo itself plays a role in female reproductive biology remains largely unknown. In this report, we show that conditional deletion of the key Hippo kinases Lats1 and Lats2 in Müllerian duct mesenchyme cells caused them to adopt the myofibroblast cell fate, resulting in profound reproductive tract developmental defects and sterility. Myofibroblast differentiation was attributed to increased YAP and TAZ expression (but not to altered WNT signaling), leading to the direct transcriptional up-regulation of Ctgf and the activation of the myofibroblast genetic program. Müllerian duct mesenchyme cells also became myofibroblasts in male mutant embryos, which impeded the development of the male reproductive tract and resulted in cryptorchidism. The inactivation of Lats1/2 in differentiated uterine stromal cells in vitro did not compromise their ability to decidualize, suggesting that Hippo is dispensable during implantation. We conclude that Hippo signaling is required to suppress the myofibroblast genetic program and maintain multipotency in Müllerian mesenchyme cells.
The subcortical maternal complex protein Nlrp4f is involved in cytoplasmic lattice formation and organelle distribution
Authors: Qin Dandan , Gao Zheng , Xiao Yi , Zhang Xiaoxin , Ma Haixia , Yu Xingjiang , Nie Xiaoqing , Fan Na , Wang Xiaoqing , Ouyang Yingchun , Sun Qing-Yuan , Yi Zhaohong , Li Lei
Published: October 2019

In mammalian oocytes and embryos, the subcortical maternal complex (SCMC) and cytoplasmic lattices (CPLs) are two closely related structures. Their detailed compositions and functions remain largely unclear. Here, we characterized Nlrp4f as a novel component associated with the SCMC and CPLs. Disruption of maternal Nlrp4f leads to decreased fecundity and delayed preimplantation development in the mouse. Lack of Nlrp4f affects organelle distribution in mouse oocytes and early embryos. Depletion of Nlrp4f disrupts CPL formation but does not affect the interactions of other SCMC proteins. Interestingly, the loss of Filia or Tle6, two other SCMC proteins, also disrupts CPL formation in mouse oocytes. Thus, the absence of CPLs and aberrant distribution of organelles in the oocytes disrupted the examined SCMC genes, including previously reported Zbed3, Mater, Floped and Padi6, indicate that the SCMC is required for CPL formation and organelle distribution. Consistent with the SCMC's role in CPL formation, the SCMC forms before CPLs during oogenesis. Together, our results suggest that SCMC protein Nlrp4f is involved in CPL formation and organelle distribution in mouse oocytes.
Barriers to Reallocation and Economic Growth: The Effects of Firing Costs
Authors: Mukoyama Toshihiko , Osotimehin Sophie
Published: October 2019

We study how factors that hinder the reallocation of inputs across firms influence aggregate productivity growth. We extend Hopenhayn and Rogerson’s (1993) firm-dynamics model to allow for endogenous innovation. We evaluate the effects of firing taxes on reallocation, innovation, and productivity growth. We find firing taxes can have opposite effects on entrants’ innovation and incumbents’ innovation, and the overall outcome depends on the relative strengths of these forces. In the entrant-driven growth calibration, firing taxes reduce aggregate productivity growth, whereas aggregate productivity growth increases in the incumbent-driven growth calibration. (JEL D24, E23, E24, J23, J24, J62, K31, O31, O47)
A Macroeconomic Framework for Quantifying Systemic Risk
Authors: He Zhiguo , Krishnamurthy Arvind
Published: October 2019

Systemic risk arises when shocks lead to states where a disruption in financial intermediation adversely affects the economy and feeds back into further disrupting financial intermediation. We present a macroeconomic model with a financial intermediary sector subject to an equity capital constraint. The novel aspect of our analysis is that the model produces a stochastic steady state distribution for the economy, in which only some of the states correspond to systemic risk states. The model allows us to examine the transition from “normal” states to systemic risk states. We calibrate our model and use it to match the systemic risk apparent during the 2007/2008 financial crisis. We also use the model to compute the conditional probabilities of arriving at a systemic risk state, such as 2007/2008. Finally, we show how the model can be used to conduct a macroeconomic “stress test” linking a stress scenario to the probability of systemic risk states. (JEL E13, E44, E52, G01, G21, G28)
Dual-energy CT characterization of winter sports injuries
Authors: Hickle Jonathan , Walstra Frances , Duggan Peter , Ouellette Hugue , Munk Peter , Mallinson Paul
Published: October 2019

CT is a readily available imaging modality for cross-sectional characterization of acute musculoskeletal injuries in trauma. Dual-energy CT provides several additional benefits over conventional CT, namely assessment for bone marrow edema, metal artifact reduction, and enhanced assessment of ligamentous injuries. Winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and skating can result in high speed and high energy injury mechanisms; dual-energy CT is well suited for the characterization of those injuries.
Restrições ao Crédito e o Uso dos Recursos Internos nas Firmas Brasileiras
Authors: Kirch Guilherme , Peres Ariádine
Published: October 2019

Este estudo tem como objetivo identificar qual o comportamento das firmas brasileiras com relação à aplicação de seus recursos internos (fluxos de caixa) no curto e no longo prazo e verificar se há diferenças de comportamento entre firmas "restritas'' e "não restritas'' financeiramente. Para tanto, foi estimado um sistema de equações tendo como variáveis dependentes os principais usos de caixa e entre as explicativas os fluxos de caixa contemporâneo e defasados (t-1 e t-2). Os resultados sugerem que, em resposta a um choque positivo sobre seus fluxos de caixa, as firmas irrestritas canalizam a maior parte desses recursos (ao longo de três anos) para novos investimentos e para a distribuição de lucros, enquanto que as firmas restritas para reduzir o financiamento externo e para a retenção de caixa. Em suma, as firmas irrestritas parecem priorizar o investimento e as restritas o fortalecimento da situação financeira.
Inflation and Stock Returns at B3
Authors: Chaves Carlos , Silva André C.
Published: October 2019

We examine the impact of expected inflation on stock returns. We use inflation forecasts from the Focus survey and real returns of Ibovespa (the index of B3, the Brazilian stock exchange). In our main specification, an increase of 1 percentage point in expected inflation for the next 12 months is associated with a decline of 0.57 percentage points in stock returns. Stock returns react negatively to the 5-year CDS volatility and the VIX index. A simulated portfolio with a strategy based on changes in inflation expectations from 2003 to 2016 has cumulated real returns of 135 percent while cumulated real Ibovespa returns are 48 percent. The strategy implies higher cumulated real returns compared with Ibovespa in 69 percent of the period.