bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Firms’ Strategic Pricing and Network Externalities
Authors: Zhou Jianheng , Xu Rongfei
Published: February 2020

For the sale of a product with network externalities, a Stackelberg model involving an incumbent and an entrant is developed considering the impact of three strategic decision-making modes of the incumbent and consumers on the pricing, market share, and profit of firms. In addition, the impact of consumers’ strategic behaviours on firms’ pricing decisions and how firms respond to strategic customers is discussed. The results show that, in the SS (strategic firm facing strategic consumers) decision-making mode, the incumbent will implement long-term pricing and finally obtain the maximum profit, while as a follower of the incumbent, the entrant will also obtain the maximum profit in the SS mode. In the NS (nonstrategic firm facing strategic consumers) decision-making mode, the strategy of consumers seriously weakens the decision-making behaviour of the incumbent and causes the incumbent to obtain the lowest profit, but at the same time, the competitiveness of the entrant is enhanced to a certain extent, thereby rendering its profit higher than that in the NN (nonstrategic firm facing nonstrategic consumers) decision-making mode.
The Role of Marine Organic Extract in Bone Regeneration: A Pilot Study
Authors: Zielak João César , Vendramini Ivana , Corso Paola Fernanda Cotait de Lucas , Muller Leonardo Luiz , Crivellaro Viviane Rozeira , Khajotia Sharukh Soli , Esteban Florez Fernando Luis , Scariot Rafaela , Elsalanty Mohammed , Deliberador Tatiana Miranda , Storrer Carmen Lucia Mueller
Published: February 2020

Novel biomaterials capable of accelerating the healing process of skeletal tissues are urgently needed in dentistry. The present in vivo study assessed the osteoconductive and osteoinductive properties of experimental biphasic bioceramics (HA‐TCP) modified or not by a nacre extract (marine organic extract, MOE) in a sheep model. Fabrication of MOE involved mixing ground nacre (0.05 g, particle sizes < 0.1 mm) with glacial ethanoic acid (5 mL, pH 7) for 72 hours using external magnetic stirring (25°C). Nonreactive carriers (sterile polythene tubes; 3/animal, radius: 2.5 mm, length: 10.0 mm) pertaining to the control (empty) or experimental groups (HA‐TCP or MOE‐modified HA‐TCP) were implanted intramuscularly into the abdominal segment of the torso in sheep (n = 8, age: 2 years, weight: 45 kg). Euthanization of animals was performed at 3 and 6 months after surgery. Tissues harvested were subjected to macroscopic and radiographic assessments. Specimens were then stained for histological analysis. Both control and experimental animals were capable of inducing the neoformation of fibrous connective tissue at both time points where superior amounts of tissue formation and mineralization were detected for experimental groups (unaltered (at 3 and 6 mos) and MOE‐modified HA‐TCP (at 3 mos)). Histological results, however, revealed that mature bone formation was only observed for specimens fabricated with MOE‐modified HA‐TCP in a time‐dependent manner. The present study has successfully demonstrated the in vivo utility of experimental biphasic bioceramics modified by MOE in an ectopic grafting sheep model. Promising osteoconductive and osteoinductive properties must be further developed and confirmed by subsequent research.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Concentrations with Fractionation Method in Sediments and Waters of the Badovci Lake (Kosovo)
Authors: Malsiu Avni , Shehu Ilir , Stafilov Trajče , Faiku Fatmir
Published: February 2020

The concentrations of thirteen metals (Al, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, V, and Zn) were analyzed in waters and sediments of the Badovci Lake. The total metal concentrations in the water followed the descending order: Fe > Al > Mn > Cu > Ba > Zn > As > Ni > Pb > V > Co > Cd > Cr, and the total metal content in the sediments also followed the descending order: Fe > Al > Mn > Ni > Cr > Pb > Ba > Zn > V > Cu > As > Co > Cd. According to EC 98/83, Al, Fe, and Mn at some sampling sites exceeded safety limits for drinking water, whereas other elements were at acceptable levels. The total content of Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and V in the sediments exceeded the target values of the New Dutch List. Using pollution indicators such as the contamination factor (CF) and geoaccumulation index (Igeo), most of the samples were unpolluted to moderately polluted by Cu, Cr, Pb, V, and Ni. The values of the pollution load index (PLI) were more than one (>1), indicating progressive deterioration of the sediment quality. The enrichment factor (EF) for all the studied metals suggests their enrichments in sediments of the Badovci Lake. Most of the elements were found in the residual fraction strongly bonded to the crystalline component. Pb, Mn, and Cu were bound in the organic and exchangeable components. The extent of pollution by heavy metals in sediments of the Badovci Lake implies that the environmental condition is relatively stable, and attention should be paid to metals bonded in the extractable and organic phases. It is recommended to periodically monitor water and sediment quality.
Temperature and Stress Evaluation during Three Different Phases of Friction Stir Welding of AA 7075-T651 Alloy
Authors: Salloomi Kareem N. , Hussein Furat I. , Al-Sumaidae Sanaa N. M.
Published: February 2020

The current study performs an explicit nonlinear finite element simulation to predict temperature distribution and consequent stresses during the friction stir welding (FSW) of AA 7075-T651 alloy. The ABAQUS® finite element software was used to model and analyze the process steps that involve plunging, dwelling, and traverse stages. Techniques such as Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) formulation, adaptive meshing, and computational feature of mass scaling were utilized to simulate sequence events during the friction stir welding process. The contact between the welding tool and workpiece was modelled through applying Coulomb’s friction model with a nonlinear friction coefficient value. Also, the model considered the effect of nonlinear material properties as well as heat transfer conditions such as heat losses due to convection and thermal contact conductance between the workpiece and the backing plate interface on the thermal history. To validate the computational model results, an experimental procedure was carried out to measure temperature history on both sides of the specimen as well as the plunging force throughout the whole process time. The results obtained showed that symmetrical temperature distribution throughout the workpiece width was distinguished, implying that the tool rotation has a minor effect on the final temperature distribution. In addition, asymptotic V shape with high gradient temperature value in the weld nugget region after the full plunging was distinguished. Mechanical stresses and related plastic deformations generated, while achieving the FSW samples were evaluated in addition to the tool reaction force and heat generated to protect against tool failure.
Tensile Fracture Behavior of Corroded Pipeline: Part 1—Experimental Characterization
Authors: Yang Yuchao , Liu Feng , Xi Feng
Published: February 2020

The understanding of the axial tensile behavior of environmentally corroded pipelines is of great significance for the design, maintenance, and evaluation of such structures. This article presents some experimental data recorded from 210 tensile tests on pipe, which were corroded from grade of 10% to 70% by electrochemical accelerated corrosion method. The fracture modes show that, for the uncorroded pipe, the fracture frequently occurs in the middle of the specimen and then propagates perpendicular to the loading direction. However, for the corroded pipe, the crack’s position, evolution angle, and path have strong randomness. The comparative analysis based on the macroscopic stress‐strain relationship shows that the rapid decrease of the yield stress, ultimate strength, and strain at the fracture for corroded pipe are correlated with the fracture patterns; i.e., the fracture patterns of pipe are changed from uniform to scattered with the continuous increase of the corrosion rate. The reduction factor based on experimental data is recommended for the consideration of the corrosion effect on the tensile strength of the steel pipe. Discussion on the tensile capacity during the service time is also presented.
Evaluation of Reporting Quality in Randomised Controlled Trials of Acupuncture for Acute Herpes Zoster by the CONSORT Statement and STRICTA Guidelines
Authors: Qian Guifeng , Zeng Jingchun , Lu Liming , Pei Wenya , Liu Kun , Luo Zhenke , She Yalin , Zhang Pande , Lin Guohua
Published: February 2020

Objective. To explore the methods for improving the reporting quality of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on acupuncture through evaluating the reporting quality in RCTs of acupuncture for acute herpes zoster by the CONSORT statement and STRICTA guidelines. Methods. English and Chinese databases were searched from database creation until October 2018 and updated to July 2019. The basic characteristics and methodological quality of the literatures included were evaluated based on the CONSORT statement and the STRICTA guidelines. Descriptive statistical analysis was used in this study. The agreement between the two researchers of all items was calculated by Cohen’s kappa statistics. Results. A total of 40 RCTs were included. Based on the CONSORT statement, items “Background,” “Randomised” in the title or abstract,” “Statistical methods,” and “Outcomes and estimation” were good reporting, with positive rates >80%. However, the quality of reporting in items “Sample size,” “Allocation concealment,” “Implementation,” “Blinding,” “Flow chart,” “Intent‐to‐treat analysis,” “Ancillary analyses,” and “Clinical Trials Register” was very poor, with positive rates <10%. Based on the STRICTA guidelines, good reporting existed in items “Acupuncture rational,” “Points used,” “Needle stimulation,” “Needle retention time,” “Course of treatment,” “Control intervention,” and “Treatment frequency,” with positive ratings >80%. The reporting quality of items “Numbers of needles inserted,” “Depth of insertion,” “Responses elicited,” and “Practitioner background” was lower, with positive rates <50%. The agreement of most items was judged as moderate, substantial, or good.Conclusion. The reporting quality of RCTs in acupuncture for acute HZ is generally inadequate. It is necessary that researchers and journal editors learn and raise the adoption of the CONSORT statement and STRICTA guidelines to enhance the reporting quality of the RCTs in acupuncture.
Atomoxetine Does Not Improve Complex Attention in Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease Patients with Cognitive Deficits: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ghosh Abhinaba , Das Saibal , Behera Sapan Kumar , Ramakrishnan Kirubakaran , Selvarajan Sandhiya , Kandasamy Preeti , Nair N Sreekumaran
Published: February 2020

Objectives. To evaluate the effects of atomoxetine on complex attention and other neurocognitive domains in idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD).Methods. Interventional trials reporting changes in complex attention and other neurocognitive functions (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5) following administration of atomoxetine for at least 8 weeks in adults with idiopathic PD were included. Effect sizes (Cohen’sd), the standardized mean difference in the scores of each cognitive domain, were compared using a random-effects model (MetaXL version 5.3).Results. Three studies were included in the final analysis. For a change in complex attention in PD with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), the estimated effect size was small and nonsignificant (0.16 (95% CI: −0.09, 0.42),n = 42). For changes in executive function, perceptual-motor function, language, social cognition, and learning and memory, the estimated effect sizes were small and medium, but nonsignificant. A deteriorative trend in executive function was observed after atomoxetine treatment in PD with MCI. For a change in global cognitive function in PD without MCI, the estimated effect size was large and significant.Conclusion. In idiopathic PD with MCI, atomoxetine does not improve complex attention. Also, a deteriorative trend in the executive function was noted.
LC-MS Analysis, 15-Lipoxygenase Inhibition, Cytotoxicity, and Genotoxicity of Dissotis multiflora (Sm) Triana (Melastomataceae) and Paullinia pinnata Linn (Sapindaceae)
Authors: Afagnigni Alian Désiré , Nyegue Maximilienne Ascension , Djova Steve Valdi , Etoa François-Xavier
Published: February 2020

This study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, cytotoxicity, and genotoxicity activities of Dissotis multiflora (Sm) Triana and Paullinia pinnata Linn used traditionally in Cameroon to treat infectious diseases. Phytochemical screening was carried out using the LC-MS procedure. The ferrous oxidation-xylenol orange (FOX) assay was used to determine the 15-lipoxygenase (15-LOX) inhibitory activity of the plant samples. The tetrazolium-based colorimetric (MTT) assay was performed using Vero cells. The Ames test was carried out using Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 tester strains. LC-MS chromatogram of D. multiflora led to the identification of four known compounds, namely, 5-(3,5-dinitrophenyl)-2H-tetrazol (2), 2,2'-{[2-(6-amino-9H-purine-9-yl)ethyl]imino}diethanol (14), 1,2,5-oxadiazolo [3,4-b]pyrazine, 5,6-di (3,5-dimethyl-1-piperidyl) (19), and nimbolinin D (20) while four compounds were also identified in P. pinnata known as 2-hydroxycarbamoyl-4-methyl-pentanoic acid (2), pheophorbide A (16), 1-[4-({2-[(1-methyl-1H-indol-5-yl)amino]-4-pyrimidinyl}oxy)-1-naphthyl]-3-[1-(4 methylphenyl)-3-(2-methyl-2-propanyl)-1H-pyrazol-5-yl]urea (17), and nimbolinin D (18). D. multiflora and P. pinnata inhibited 15-LOX activity in concentration-dependent manner. The LC50 (concentration that kills 50% of cells) values of the extracts ranged from 0.13 ± 00 to 1 ± 00 mg/mL for P. pinnata and D. multiflora, respectively. P. pinnata was cytotoxic at concentrations tested while D. multiflora was not. The selectivity index (SI) values ranged from 0.16 to 10.30 on Vero cell lines. No genotoxic effect was observed against both strains tested. These extracts are sources of compounds which can be used to control infectious diseases and associated inflammation. However, caution should be taken while using P. pinnata for medicinal purposes.
A Review of Primary Vasculitis Mimickers Based on the Chapel Hill Consensus Classification
Authors: Zarka Farah , Veillette Charles , Makhzoum Jean-Paul
Published: February 2020

Primary systemic vasculitides are rare diseases that may manifest similarly to more commonly encountered conditions. Depending on the size of the vessel affected (large vessel, medium vessel, or small vessel), different vasculitis mimics must be considered. Establishing the right diagnosis of a vasculitis mimic will prevent unnecessary immunosuppressive therapy.
Theoretical and Numerical Research on V‐Cut Parameters and Auxiliary Cuthole Criterion in Tunnelling
Authors: Lou Xiaoming , Wang Bao , Wu En , Sun Mingwu , Zhou Ping , Wang Zhenchang
Published: February 2020

This paper aims at providing a sound theoretical solution to auxiliary central hole and the cutting parameters. For this purpose, the forming mechanism of V‐cut cavity for cutting blasting was performed based on the hypothetical rock breaking mechanism of V‐cut blasting. A theoretical solution for increasing the critical depth of the auxiliary center cuthole and the criteria for increasing the cuthole diameter of various types of cutholes when the rock attributes, explosive properties, and cuthole dip angle are constant are proposed. (1) If charging length le < 0.75H/sin θ, no auxiliary cuthole is needed. (2) If 0.75H/sin θ < le < 0.75H/sin θ + (2∼4) × 0.1, a central vertical auxiliary hole is needed. (3) If 0.75H/sin θ + (2∼4) × 0.1 < le < 0.75(H/sin θ + Hi/sin θi), a shallow inclined hole is needed. (4) If le > 0.75(H/sin θ + Hi/sin θi), both the central vertical cuthole and the shallow inclined cuthole are needed. Meanwhile, the theoretical solution was verified by numerical modelling with ANSYS/LS‐DYNA. Moreover, the field implementation of the V‐cut and the auxiliary hole effectively improved the blasting effect in both efficiency and economy.
Oral Microbiome Profiling in Smokers with and without Head and Neck Cancer Reveals Variations Between Health and Disease
Authors: Sharma Ashok Kumar , DeBusk William T. , Stepanov Irina , Gomez Andres , Khariwala Samir S.
Published: February 2020

While smoking is inextricably linked to oral/head and neck cancer (HNSCC), only a small fraction of smokers develop HNSCC. Thus, we have sought to identify other factors, which may influence the development of HNSCC in smokers including microbiology. To determine microbial associations with HNSCC among tobacco users, we characterized oral microbiome composition in smokers with and without HNSCC. 16S rRNA MiSeq sequencing was used to examine the oral mucosa microbiome of 27 smokers with (cases) and 24 without HNSCC (controls). In addition, we correlated previously reported levels of DNA damage with the microbiome data. Smokers with HNSCC showed lower microbiome richness compared with controls (q = 0.012). Beta-diversity analyses, assessed as UniFrac (weighted and unweighted) and Bray–Curtis distances, showed significant differences in oral mucosal microbiome signatures between cases and controls (r2 = 0.03; P = 0.03) and higher interindividual microbiome heterogeneity in the former (q ≤ 0.01). Higher relative abundance of Stenotrophomonas and Comamonadaceae and predicted bacterial pathways mainly involved in xenobiotic and amine degradation were found in cases compared with controls. The latter, in contrast, exhibited higher abundance of common oral commensals and predicted sugar degradation pathways. Finally, levels of DNA damage in the oral cavity were correlated with the microbiome profiles above. Oral microbiome traits differ in smokers with and without HNSCC, potentially informing the risk of eventual HNSCC and shedding light into possible microbially mediated mechanisms of disease. These findings present data that may be useful in screening efforts for HNSCC among smokers who are unable to quit.
A Systematic Review on Cost-effectiveness Studies Evaluating Ovarian Cancer Early Detection and Prevention Strategies
Authors: Sroczynski Gaby , Gogollari Artemisa , Kuehne Felicitas , Hallsson Lára R. , Widschwendter Martin , Pashayan Nora , Siebert Uwe
Published: February 2020

Ovarian cancer imposes a substantial health and economic burden. We systematically reviewed current health-economic evidence for ovarian cancer early detection or prevention strategies. Accordingly, we searched relevant databases for cost-effectiveness studies evaluating ovarian cancer early detection or prevention strategies. Study characteristics and results including quality-adjusted life years (QALY), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) were summarized in standardized evidence tables. Economic results were transformed into 2017 Euros. The included studies (N = 33) evaluated ovarian cancer screening, risk-reducing interventions in women with heterogeneous cancer risks and genetic testing followed by risk-reducing interventions for mutation carriers. Multimodal screening with a risk-adjusted algorithm in postmenopausal women achieved ICERs of 9,800–81,400 Euros/QALY, depending on assumptions on mortality data extrapolation, costs, test performance, and screening frequency. Cost-effectiveness of risk-reducing surgery in mutation carriers ranged from cost-saving to 59,000 Euros/QALY. Genetic testing plus risk-reducing interventions for mutation carriers ranged from cost-saving to 54,000 Euros/QALY in women at increased mutation risk. Our findings suggest that preventive surgery and genetic testing plus preventive surgery in women at high risk for ovarian cancer can be considered effective and cost-effective. In postmenopausal women from the general population, multimodal screening using a risk-adjusted algorithm may be cost-effective.
The Long Noncoding RNA ANRIL Promotes Cell Apoptosis in Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Mediated by the TLR4/Nuclear Factor-Kappa B Pathway
Authors: Zhu Ye , Wei Sheng-Wei , Ding Ao , Zhu Wei-Ping , Mai Mei-Fang , Cui Tong-Xia , Yang Hui , Zhang Hua
Published: February 2020

Background/Aims: The purpose of this study is to analyze the expression and biological function of lncRNA ANRIL, microRNA-199a, TLR4, and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) in acute renal injury (AKI) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Methods: The levels of ANRIL and microRNA-199a in mouse cells and kidneys were detected by quantitative-polymerase chain reaction. Western blot analysis was used for the NF-κB pathway protein. MTT assay was used for cell viability. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used for the secretion of inflammatory factors in mouse kidney tissue. Apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry and Western blotting. The potential binding region between ANRIL and miR-199a was verified by luciferase reporter assay. Results: The upregulation of ANRIL can reduce the expression of microRNA-199a and increases the number of apoptotic cells. The expression levels of ANRIL in LPS-induced AKI mice and LPS-treated HK2 cells were upregulated compared with the control group. Overexpression of ANRIL increased apoptosis and promoted TLR4 (Toll-like receptor 4), NF-κB phosphorylation, and downstream transcription factor production. Conclusion: ANRIL/NF-κB pathway in LPS-induced apoptosis provided theoretical guidance for ANRIL in the treatment of AKI.
Adapting Methodology Used on Captive Subjects for Estimating Gut Passage Time in Wild Monkeys
Authors: Stringer Simon David , Hill Russell A. , Swanepoel Lourens , Koyama Nicola F.
Published: February 2020

Gut passage time of food has consequences for primate digestive strategies, which subsequently affect seed dispersal. Seed dispersal models are critical in understanding plant population and community dynamics through estimation of seed dispersal distances, combining movement data with gut passage times. Thus, developing methods to collect in situ data on gut passage time are of great importance. Here we present a first attempt to develop an in situ study of gut passage time in an arboreal forest guenon, the samango monkey (Cercopithecus albogularis schwarzi) in the Soutpansberg Mountains, South Africa. Cercopithecus spp. consume large proportions of fruit and are important seed dispersers. However, previous studies on gut passage times have been conducted only on captive Cercopithecusspp. subjects, where movement is restricted, and diets are generally dissimilar to those observed in the wild. Using artificial digestive markers, we targeted provisioning of a male and a female samango monkey 4 times over 3 and 4 days, respectively. We followed the focal subjects from dawn until dusk following each feeding event, collecting faecal samples and recording the date and time of deposition and the number of markers found in each faecal sample. We recovered 6.61 ± 4 and 13 ± 9% of markers from the male and the female, respectively, and were able to estimate a gut passage window of 16.63–25.12 h from 3 of the 8 trials. We discuss methodological issues to help future researchers to develop in situ studies on gut passage times.
Abnormal Baseline Lab Results Rarely Lead to Treatment Modification for Patients on Isotretinoin
Authors: Tkachenko Elizabeth , Sharma Priyank , Mostaghimi Arash
Published: February 2020

Background: Treatment modification and clinical course for patients initiating isotretinoin with abnormal baseline lab results is currently unknown, and no recommendations exist for monitoring this patient group. Methods: We performed a retrospective review of patients prescribed isotretinoin for acne from 2008 to 2016 at Brigham and Women’s and Massachusetts General Hospitals to investigate the characteristics, clinical implications, and management of patients initiating isotretinoin for acne with baseline laboratory abnormalities. Results: We identified a low rate (7.2%) of treatment modification, including interruption (3.6%) and early termination (3.6%), during isotretinoin therapy due to lab abnormalities for patients with baseline lab abnormalities. Abnormal baseline total cholesterol, triglyceride, and liver function tests did not predict management changes, as only 2 of 10 total treatment modifications were due to a lab result that was abnormal at baseline. Treatment modification was driven by ALT elevation not present at baseline that occurred in patients with liver comorbidities. Conclusion: Emphasizing relevant comorbidities, including hepatic disease or alcohol use, to inform our monitoring may be a superior predictor of abnormalities during treatment, as our work demonstrates that the value of baseline lab data prior to isotretinoin is unclear.
Research Participants’ Attitudes towards Receiving Information on Genetic Susceptibility to Arsenic Toxicity in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Tamayo Lizeth I. , Lin Hannah , Ahmed Alauddin , Shahriar Hasan , Hasan Rabiul , Sarwar Golam , Eunus HEM Mahbubul , Ahsan Habibul , Pierce Brandon L.
Published: February 2020

Background: In human genetics research, it has become common practice for researchers to consider returning genetic information to participants who wish to receive it. Research participants in lower-resource settings may have barriers or competing interests that reduce the benefit or relevance of such information. Thus, the decision to return genetic information in these settings may involve special considerations of participants’ interests and preferences. In this project, our goal was to assess Bangladeshi research participants’ attitudes towards receiving information regarding genetic susceptibility to the effects of consuming arsenic-contaminated drinking water, a serious environmental health concern in Bangladesh and other countries. Methods: We administered a short questionnaire to 200 individuals participating in the Health Effects of Arsenic Longitudinal Study. Associations between survey responses and participant characteristics were estimated using logistic regression. Results: Overall, 100% of our participants were interested in receiving information regarding their genetic susceptibility to arsenic toxicities, and 91% indicated that being at increased genetic risk would motivate them to make efforts to reduce their exposure. Lower levels of education showed evidence of association with less concern regarding the health effects of arsenic and lower levels of motivation to reduce exposure in response to genetic information. Conclusions: Research participants in this low-resource setting appeared interested in receiving information on their genetic susceptibility to arsenic toxicity and motivated to reduce exposure in response to such information. Additional research is needed to understand how best to communicate genetic information in this population and to assess the impact of such information on individuals’ behaviors and health.
Characteristics of First Recovery Step Response following Unexpected Loss of Balance during Walking: A Dynamic Approach
Authors: Nachmani Hadas , Shani Guy , Shapiro Amir , Melzer Itshak
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Many falls in older adults occur during walking and result in lateral falls. The ability to perform a recovery step after balance perturbation determines whether a fall will occur. Aim: To investigate age-related changes in first recovery step kinematics and kinematic adaptations over a wide range of lateral perturbation magnitudes while walking. Methods: Thirty-five old (78.5 ± 5 years) and 19 young adults (26.0 ± 0.8 years) walked at their preferred walking speed on a treadmill. While walking, the subjects were exposed to announced right/left perturbations in different phases of the gait cycle that were gradually increased in order to trigger a recovery stepping response. The subjects were instructed to react naturally and try to avoid falling. Kinematic analysis was performed to analyze the first recovery step parameters (e.g., step initiation, swing duration, step length, and the estimated distance of the center of mass from the base of support [dBoS]). Results: Compared with younger adults, older adults displayed a significantly lower step threshold and at lower perturbation magnitudes during the experiment. Also, they showed slower compensatory step initiation, shorter step length, and dBoS with similar step recovery times. As the perturbation magnitudes increased, older adults showed very small, yet significant, decreases in the timing of the step response, and increased their step length. Younger adults did not show changes in the timing of stepping, with a tendency toward a significant increase in step length. Conclusions: First compensatory step performance is impaired in older adults. In terms of the dynamic approach, older adults were more flexible, i.e., less automatic, while younger adults displayed more automatic behavior.
Specific IgE Decision Point Cutoffs in Children with IgE-Mediated Wheat Allergy and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Graham François , Caubet Jean Christoph , Ramadan Salim , Spoerl David , Eigenmann Philippe A.
Published: February 2020

Background: Wheat IgE-mediated food allergy in children is one of the most frequent food allergies in westernized countries, affecting between 0.4 and 1% of children. Although 95% predictive decision points have been determined for major allergens such as peanut, egg, and milk, the diagnostic performances of wheat-specific IgE (sIgE) and wheat component testing are not well established. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine sIgE decision point cutoffs in children with IgE-mediated wheat allergy and provide a review of the literature. Method: A retrospective review of wheat oral food challenges was performed at the pediatric allergy unit of the University Hospitals of Geneva between 2004 and 2019. Performance characteristics for wheat and ω-5 gliadin sIgE were calculated and positive and negative OFC data were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test. Results: A wheat sIgE cutoff of 2.88 kUA/L had a sensitivity of 95% (negative decision point), whereas a cutoff of 78.1 kUA/L had a specificity of 95% (positive decision point). When giving equal weight to sensitivity and specificity, the optimal cutoff point for wheat sIgE was 12 kUA/L, which gave a specificity of 70% and a sensitivity of 66.67%. Conclusions: These findings suggest a high positive decision point for wheat sIgE (78.1 kUA/L). This reinforces the importance of considering OFC in children with IgE-mediated wheat allergy to confirm diagnosis even in patients with relatively high wheat sIgE values, as there is a risk of falsely mislabeling these patients as allergic.
The Association of Parental Genetic, Lifestyle, and Social Determinants of Health with Offspring Overweight
Authors: Graham Catherine A.M. , Pedlar Charles R. , Hearne Gary , Lorente-Cebrián Silvia , González-Muniesa Pedro , Mavrommatis Yiannis
Published: February 2020

Introduction: In the UK, the number of comorbidities seen in children has increased along with the worsening obesity rate. These comorbidities worsen into adulthood. Genome-wide association studies have highlighted single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with the weight status of adults and offspring individually. To date, in the UK, parental genetic, lifestyle, and social determinants of health have not been investigated alongside one another as influencers of offspring weight status. A comprehensive obesity prevention scheme would commence prior to conception and involve parental intervention including all known risk factors. This current study aims to identify the proportion of overweight that can be explained by known parental risk factors, including genetic, lifestyle, and social determinants of health with offspring weight status in the UK. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 123 parents. Parental and offspring anthropometric data and parental lifestyle and social determinants of health data were self-reported. Parental genetic data were collected by use of GeneFiX saliva collection vials and genotype were assessed for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene rs6265, melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) gene rs17782313, transmembrane protein 18 (TMEM18) gene rs2867125, and serine/threonine-protein kinase (TNN13K) gene rs1514175. Associations were assessed between parental data and the weight status of offspring. Results: Maternal body mass index modestly predicted child weight status (p < 0.015; R2 = 0.15). More mothers of overweight children carried the MC4R rs17782313 risk allele (77.8%; p = 0.007) compared to mothers of normal-weight children. Additionally, fathers who were not Caucasian and parents who slept for <7 h/night had a larger percentage of overweight children when compared to their counterparts (p = 0.039; p = 0.014, respectively). Conclusion: Associations exist between the weight status of offspring based solely on parental genetic, lifestyle, and social determinants of health data. Further research is required to appropriately address future interventions based on genetic and lifestyle risk groups on a pre-parent cohort.
Short Femur in the Second Trimester Scan Is Related to Maternal Preeclampsia and Small for Gestational Age Newborns
Authors: Ventura Walter , Prieto-Sánchez Maria Teresa , Delgado Juan L. , Pertegal Miriam , López Antonia , Checa Rosario , De Paco Matallana Catalina
Published: February 2020

Objective: To determine the contribution of short femur diaphysis length (FDL) at 19–22 weeks of gestation in the prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Methods: The study included singleton pregnant women who underwent a routine anomaly scan at 19–22 weeks of gestation at the Virgen de la Arrixaca University Clinical Hospital (Murcia, Spain) between August 2011 and August 2012. Fetal biometry and Doppler ultrasound of uterine arteries were assessed as part of the anomaly scan, and the mean pulsatility index of both uterine arteries was recorded. Maternal obstetric characteristics, such as ethnicity, age, weight, parity, cigarette smoking, and medical history including hypertension and diabetes mellitus were collected from our database system. Results: A total of 6,366 women were included in the study after excluding cases with abnormal karyotype, major fetal abnormalities, or termination of pregnancy. There were 88 cases of preeclampsia (PE) (1.4%). Logistic regression was performed including maternal and fetal characteristics. Short FDL at 19–22 weeks was significantly associated with subsequent development of PE (OR = 0.89, 95% CI: 0.80–0.99, p = 0.025). The best model to predict PE from our sample included gestational age at scan, parity, maternal weight, chronic hypertension, mean pulsatility index in the uterine arteries, and FDL (AUC = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.71–0.84). Regarding small for gestational age (SGA) neonates, there were also significant differences in FDL and FDL <5th centile between the control group and SGA newborns below the 3rd, 5th, and 10th centile. In the groups of preterm births (delivery before 32, 34, and 37 weeks), there were no differences in FDL compared with the control group (term births). Discussion: Our results suggest that FDL at 19–22 weeks of gestation is an independent predictor of PE and SGA newborns.
Muslims’ Affective and Cognitive Attitudes towards Formal Dementia Care in South Africa: Do They Vary according to Family Structure and the Experience of Familial Caregiving?
Authors: Ramaboa Kutlwano K.K.M. , Fredericks Iman
Published: February 2020

Background: The feelings and beliefs of some social groups sharing the same values about formal care institutions impacts their likelihood of using such services. Socialisation theory posits that there should not be any difference in attitudes towards formal care in the Muslim community, as they are influenced by the principles of Confucianism. However, demographic, epistemological, and socio-economic trends, as well as globalisation, may be impacting the efficacy of caring for people with dementia (PWD) at home. Objective: This study examines the affective and cognitive attitudes of South African Muslims towards formal care, and whether they vary according to family structure and experience with informal dementia care. Methods: We conducted a survey, administered in the form of an online questionnaire, of Muslim families across each of the 9 provinces of South Africa. The topics addressed included the demographics of the respondents, whether they had experience with informal dementia care, the structure of their family, and affective and cognitive attitudinal variables. Results: 422 responses were analysed, with the results demonstrating negative attitudes across family structures and experience with informal dementia care. This indicates that the changes brought about by economic development and globalisation are not impacting the social influence of the Islam religion towards caregiving. Conclusion: With up to 90% of PWD moving into formal care before they die in some countries, governments and other service providers of formal care need to provide culturally congruent care. There is also a need to build relationships with minority social groups that are not cared for by geriatric service organisations (governmental and non-governmental) in order to break down the negative attitudes that families have about formal care, and provide the families caring for PWD at home with coping strategies and support programmes to enhance the caregiving experience.
The Pathogenesis of Fungal-Related Diseases and Allergies in the African Population: The State of the Evidence and Knowledge Gaps
Authors: Pfavayi Lorraine Tsitsi , Sibanda Elopy Nimele , Mutapi Francisca
Published: February 2020

The prevalence of allergic diseases in the African continent has received limited attention with the allergic diseases due to fungal allergens being among the least studied. This lead to the opinion being that the prevalence of allergic disease is low in Africa. Recent reports from different African countries indicate that this is not the case as allergic conditions are common and some; particularly those due to fungal allergens are increasing in prevalence. Thus, there is need to understand both the aetiology and pathogenies of these diseases, particularly the neglected fungal allergic diseases. This review addresses currently available knowledge of fungal-induced allergy, disease pathogenesis comparing findings from human versus experimental mouse studies of fungal allergy. The review discusses the potential role of the gut mycobiome and the extent to which this is relevant to fungal allergy, diagnosis and human health.
Session based cooperation in cognitive radio networks: network level approach
Authors: Ghildiyal Sunil , Goel Himanshu , Semwal Anupam
Published: February 2020

The cognitive radio prototype performance is to alleviate the scarcity of spectral resources for wireless communication through intelligent sensing and quick resource allocation techniques. Secondary users (SU’s) actively obtain the spectrum access opportunity by supporting primary users (PU’s) in cognitive radio networks (CRNs). In present generation, spectrum access is endowed through cooperative communication based link-level frame-based cooperative (LLC) principle. In this SUs independently act as conveyors for PUs to achieve spectrum access opportunities. Unfortunately, this LLC approach cannot fully exploit spectrum access opportunities to enhance the throughput of CRNs and fails to motivate PUs to join the spectrum sharing processes. Therefore to overcome this con, network level cooperative (NLC) principle was used, where SUs are integrated mutually to collaborate with PUs session by session, instead of frame based cooperation for spectrum access opportunities. NLC approach has justified the challenges facing in LLC approach. In this paper we make a survey of some models that have been proposed to tackle the problem of LLC. We show the relevant aspects of each model, in order to characterize the parameters that we should take in account to achieve a spectrum access opportunity.
Support vector machine based alzheimer’s disease diagnosis using synchrony features
Authors: Kulkarni Nilesh
Published: February 2020

Previous research work has highlighted that neuro-signals of Alzheimer’s disease patients are least complex and have low synchronization as compared to that of healthy and normal subjects. The changes in EEG signals of Alzheimer’s subjects start at early stage but are not clinically observed and detected. To detect these abnormalities, three synchrony measures and wavelet-based features have been computed and studied on experimental database. After computing these synchrony measures and wavelet features, it is observed that Phase Synchrony and Coherence based features are able to distinguish between Alzheimer’s disease patients and healthy subjects. Support Vector Machine classifier is used for classification giving 94% accuracy on experimental database used. Combining, these synchrony features and other such relevant features can yield a reliable system for diagnosing the Alzheimer’s disease.
Center Manifold Analysis of Plateau Phenomena Caused by Degeneration of Three-Layer Perceptron
Authors: Tsutsui Daiji
Published: February 2020

A hierarchical neural network usually has many singular regions in the parameter space due to the degeneration of hidden units. Here, we focus on a three-layer perceptron, which has one-dimensional singular regions comprising both attractive and repulsive parts. Such a singular region is often called a Milnor-like attractor. It is empirically known that in the vicinity of a Milnor-like attractor, several parameters converge much faster than the rest and that the dynamics can be reduced to smaller-dimensional ones. Here we give a rigorous proof for this phenomenon based on a center manifold theory. As an application, we analyze the reduced dynamics near the Milnor-like attractor and study the stochastic effects of the online learning.
Uncovering the Drape: Observing its Impact on Communication With Anesthesia Providers
Authors: Jones Laura K. , Jennings Bonnie Mowinski , Higgins Melinda K. , de Waal Frans B. M.
Published: February 2020

In the operating room (OR), opaque drapes are hung between the anesthesia workstation and the operating table. Because OR teams are transient and hierarchical, social order is continuously being negotiated around this partition. We hypothesized that drape transparency, a tool for reimagining the physical and symbolic confines of the OR, might alter behavior. Due to the proximity of anesthesia providers to the drape, we examined how the drape’s transparency affected “social” and “case-related” communication between them and clinicians from surgery and nursing. We observed 58 surgical cases using an OR ethogram to document interprofessional communications (344 exchanges) involving the anesthesia provider. The effect of the type drape showed a statistically significant, GzMLM F(1, 342) = 4.924, p = .027, increase only for “social” communication. The frequency of “social” communication, known to enhance collegiality, was greater when a transparent drape was substituted for the opaque drape (34.9% vs. 21.3%, respectively).
The Role of Marriage and Military Service on Reoffending: Race, “The Respectability Package,” and the Desistance Process
Authors: Johnson Wendi L. , Giordano Peggy C.
Published: February 2020

We build on prior research examining military involvement and criminal involvement by investigating the importance of acquiring the more complete “respectability package” that includes marriage as well as military experience and variations among White and Black respondents. Using data from Waves I and IV of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health; n = 5,801), analyses use logistic regression models to assess associations of military service, marriage, and race with odds of reoffending among White and Black young adults who reported offending at Wave I. Military involvement was associated with lower odds of offending for Black respondents only, while marriage was associated with decreased odds of reoffending across both groups. Among Black respondents, analyses also highlighted the importance of acquiring both components of the respectability package (military service and marriage) in the context of today’s all-volunteer force in reducing criminal involvement.
Recurrence and Progression of Head and Neck Paragangliomas after Treatment
Authors: Contrera Kevin J. , Yong Valeda , Reddy Chandana A. , Liu Sara W. , Lorenz Robert R.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To characterize the recurrence of head and neck paragangliomas and the factors associated with disease progression after treatment.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Subjects and Methods

In total, 173 adults with 189 paragangliomas (41.3% carotid body, 29.1% glomus jugulare, 19.0% glomus tympanicum, and 10.6% glomus vagale) treated between 1990 and 2010 were evaluated to determine the incidence and risk of recurrence using Cox proportional hazards.

Results

The mean (SD) follow‐up duration was 8.6 (9.1) years. The incidence was 2.92 recurrences per 100 person‐years. The rate of recurrence was 8.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 3.7‐12.7) after 4 years and 17.1% (95% CI, 10.2‐24.0) after 10 years. Glomus jugulare tumors were more likely to recur (hazard ratio [HR], 3.69; 95% CI, 1.70‐8.01; P <. 001) while carotid body tumors were less likely (HR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.21‐0.97; P =. 041). Radiation had a lower risk of recurrence or progression compared to surgical excision (HR, 0.30; 95% CI, 0.10‐.94; P =. 040). Recurrence was associated with right‐sided paragangliomas (HR, 3.60; 95% CI, 1.63‐7.75; P =. 001). The median time to recurrence was 18.4 years. Six (3.2%) patients developed metastasis, which was more common with local recurrence (9.5% vs 1.4%, P =. 015).

Conclusions

Recurrence is more common with glomus jugulare tumors and less common with carotid body tumors. Radiation may have a lower risk of recurrence or progression than surgery for some paraganglioma types. Metastasis is rare but more likely with recurrent disease. Surveillance neck imaging is recommended every several years for decades after treatment.
Information searching and commitment strategies of maritime faculty students on the web
Authors: Topal Arzu Deveci , Süner Münir
Published: February 2020

Although searching for information in an electronic environment is generally seen as an efficient and easy process, accessing the desired information within the breadth of data available on the web can be a complex and difficult process. For students preparing for a life at sea, it is important to establish and determine the appropriate strategies for accessing and interpreting information on the web, as their ability to perform such tasks quickly and effectively is vital for their success in this particular sector. In this study, the information searching and commitment strategies of students studying in the maritime faculty of a Turkish state university in the 2018-2019 academic year were examined. The study determined that students generally use advanced searching strategies, explicit components instead of more implicit components, and simple searching strategies instead of advanced searching strategies. Further, students in the department of Marine Transportation used more varied searching strategies on the web than those in the department of Marine Management. Possessing higher levels of computer skills was found to be more significant than computer or smart phone usage times in determining more advanced searching strategies. The results highlight the importance of educating students in order to gain awareness of how to organize information and identify appropriate content alongside teaching them how to access and use the information and scientific data they are looking for.