bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive switch to sexually dimorphic movements by partner-seeking termites
Authors: Mizumoto Nobuaki , Dobata Shigeto
Published: June 2019

The key to successful pairing of termites is alternation between different movement modes depending on informational context.
Gregarious suspension feeding in a modular Ediacaran organism
Authors: Gibson Brandt M. , Rahman Imran A. , Maloney Katie M. , Racicot Rachel A. , Mocke Helke , Laflamme Marc , Darroch Simon A. F.
Published: June 2019

Simulations show fossil
Ernietta
(548 Ma ago) lived gregariously to aid feeding, providing one of the oldest examples of commensalism.
QseC Signaling in the Outbreak O104:H4
Escherichia coli
Strain Combines Multiple Factors during Infection
Authors: Machado Ribeiro Tamara Renata , Cardinali Lustri Bruna , Elias Waldir P. , Moreira Cristiano Gallina
Published: June 2019

EAEC is a remarkable etiologic agent of acute and persistent diarrhea worldwide. The isolates harbor specific subsets of virulence genes and their pathogenesis needs to be better understood. Chemical signaling via histidine kinase sensor QseC has been shown as a potential target to elucidate the orchestration of the regulatory cascade of virulence factors.
Iron-Dependent Regulation of Molybdenum Cofactor Biosynthesis Genes in Escherichia coli
Authors: Zupok Arkadiusz , Gorka Michal , Siemiatkowska Beata , Skirycz Aleksandra , Leimkühler Silke
Published: June 2019

FNR is a very important transcriptional factor that represents the master switch for the expression of target genes in response to anaerobiosis. Among the FNR-regulated operons in
Escherichia coli
is the
moaABCDE
operon, involved in Moco biosynthesis. Molybdoenzymes have essential roles in eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms. In bacteria, molybdoenzymes are crucial for anaerobic respiration using alternative electron acceptors. This work investigates the connection of iron availability to the biosynthesis of Moco and the production of active molybdoenzymes.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Wood-Decaying Fungus
Xylaria
sp. BCC 1067
Authors: Sutheeworapong Sawannee , Suteerapongpan Nuthatai , Paenkaew Prasobsook , Prommeenate Peerada , Cheevadhanarak Supapon , Wattanachaisaereekul Songsak
Published: June 2019

Xylaria
sp. BCC 1067 is a wood-decaying fungus which is capable of producing lignocellulolytic enzymes. Based on the results of a single-molecule real-time sequencing technology analysis, we present the first draft genome of
Xylaria
sp. BCC 1067, comprising 54.1 Mb with 12,112 protein-coding genes.
Complete Genome Sequence of Serratia marcescens Phage MTx
Authors: Graham Kristin , Freeman Miranda , Newkirk Heather , Liu Mei , Cahill Jesse , Ramsey Jolene
Published: June 2019

Serratia marcescens
is a nosocomial pathogen that has evolved resistance to multiple antibiotics. Here, we present the genome sequence of myophage MTx that infects
S. marcescens
. MTx encodes 103 proteins, with 26 being assigned a predicted function or superfamily classification, and it has little similarity with other phages at the nucleotide level.
Climate impact on fluvial-lake system evolution, Eocene Green River Formation, Uinta Basin, Utah, USA
Authors: Birgenheier L.P. , Berg M.D. Vanden , Plink-Björklund P. , Gall R.D. , Rosencrans E. , Rosenberg M.J. , Toms L.C. , Morris J.
Published: June 2019

In light of a modern understanding of early Eocene greenhouse climate fluctuations and new highly seasonal fluvial system faces models, the role of climate in the evolution of one classically-cited continental, terminal lake system is re-examined. Detailed stratigraphic description and elemental abundance data from fifteen cores and seven outcrop regions of the Green River Formation were used to construct a ∼150 km cross section across the Uinta Basin, Utah, USA. Lake Uinta in the Uinta Basin is divided into five lake phases: (1) post-Paleocene Eocene Thermal Maximum, (2) peak Eocene hyperthermal, (3) waning hyperthermal, Early Eocene Climatic Optimum (EECO), (4) post-hyperthermal, and (5) post-EECO regimes, based primarily on climatically driven changes in fluvial style in combination with sedimentary indicators of lacustrine carbonate deposition, organic matter preservation, salinity, and lake depth. Basinwide siliciclastic dominated intervals were deposited by highly seasonal fluvial systems and record negative organic carbon isotope excursions associated with early Eocene abrupt, transient global warming (hyperthermal) events. Carbonate dominated or organic rich intervals record stable, less seasonal climate periods between hyperthermals, with lower siliciclastic sediment supply allowing the development of carbonate and organic matter preservation. The stratigraphic progression from alternating organic rich and lean zones to the overlying organic rich Mahogany and R8 zones represents the global transition out of the pulsed early Eocene hyperthermal climate regime to a time of sediment starvation and lake stratification, sequestering sedimentary organic carbon. This study provides a novel approach to terrestrial paleoclimate reconstruction that relies largely on unique sedimentary indicators and secondarily on isotopic proxy records within the context of a large basin-wide sedimentologic and stratigraphic data set, thus setting the stage for future detailed geochemical terrestrial paleoclimate proxy development.
P015 Yellow cards are still not on everyone’s to do list
Authors: Horan Emily , Tuthill David
Published: June 2019

Aim

To look at how the Yellow Card Scheme is used by health care professionals (HCPs) in child health.

Methods

An online SurveyMonkey questionnaire was devised to look at how healthcare professionals (HCPs) have used the Yellow Card Scheme in clinical practice. It comprised of 10 questions (9 multiple choice and 1 freestyle text). What type of healthcare professional are you? Are you aware of the Yellow Card reporting scheme? Have you ever used the Yellow Card Scheme to report an adverse drug reaction? If yes, how did you make the report? (If no, select N/A) If you haven’t ever reported a reaction, would you know how to? Have you ever completed an e learning module about the Yellow Card Scheme? Are you aware that parents can report adverse drug reactions using the Yellow Card Scheme? Have you ever been aware of an adverse drug reaction but decided not to report it? If yes, what was the reason you chose not to report it? (If no, select N/A) Can you think of any ways to make the Yellow Card Scheme more accessible to healthcare professionals? It was piloted on 5 HCPS and minor textural revisions made. The questionnaire was then undertaken via face-to-face interviews during June 2018.

Results

50 healthcare professionals completed the questionnaire: 16 doctors, 13 nurses, 8 pharmacists, 9 medical students, 2 nursing students and 2 pharmacy technicians. 43/50 were aware of the Yellow Card Scheme (10 undergraduates and 33 postgraduates). 18 participants had used the Yellow Card whilst 32 had not reported an adverse drug event. Out of the 32 respondents who had never reported a reaction, 13 (7 undergraduates and 6 postgraduates) said that they would not know how to report a reaction if required. Only 9 had completed an online e learning module about the Yellow Card scheme. 30 participants were aware that parents could report using the scheme. 10 participants had been aware of an adverse drug reaction but decided not to report it. The most common reason for this was being too busy. The most common suggestion on how to improve accessibility to the Yellow Card Scheme was the implementation of a mobile phone application.

Conclusion

Most participants were aware of the Yellow Card scheme although undergraduates less so. Many had reported, although some had chosen not to report because they were: too busy; not being concerned enough; not knowing how to; having forgotten. An app already exists, but awareness of this appears low, as it was the commonest suggestion to aid the low reporting.
P051 The bigger you are the harder you fall? Short term effects of LUM/IVA (Orkambi) on lung function in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Grady Emma O’ , Finnegan Rebecca , Smyth Anna , Ryan Stephanie , Williamson Michael
Published: June 2019

Aim

Cystic Fibrosis conductance Transmembrane Regulator (CFTR) protein modulators represent a major breakthrough in the pharmacological management of Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Previous studies report acute changes in lung function after first administration of lumacaftor/ivacaftor (LUM/IVA) without a clear underlying mechanism.1 2 Our aim was to explore links between changes in percent predicted forced expiratory volume in one second (ppFEV1) and a number of potentially influencing factors.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of all children with CF who were started on LUM/IVA treatment between September 2016 and August 2017 in our institution. Data was collected from patient charts, electronic laboratory and radiology records. CT Thorax images were reviewed for evidence of air trapping using the Brody score.3 Descriptive and statistical analyses were performed using SPSS.

Results

Data was collected from 15 children with CF who were started on LUM/IVA treatment. The mean (±SD) age of starting treatment was 14 years (±1.7 years), with a mean weight of 47.3 kg (±8.9 kg) and male-to-female ratio of 9:6. Ninety-three percent of patients experienced an acute decline in ppFEV1 post initiation of LUM/IVA, with an absolute mean decline of -10.8% (0–20%). There is a statistically significant inverse relationship between absolute change in ppFEV1 (FEV1) and baseline ppFEV1. There is no correlation between FEV1 and weight, gender or air trapping score.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that a LUM/IVA related decline in lung function is more significant in CF children with higher baseline ppFEV1. This offers reassurance when initiating LUM/IVA as the patients who experience significant declines have a greater respiratory reserve with which to support this reduction.

References

Ratjen F, Hug C, Marigowda G, et al. Efficacy and safety of lumacaftor and ivacaftor in patients aged 6–11 years with cystic fibrosis homozygous for F508del-CFTR: a randomised, placebo-controlled phase 3 trial. Lancet Respir Med 2017;5:557–567.

Labaste A, Ohlmann C, Mainguy C, et al. Real-life acute lung function changes after lumacaftor/ivacaftor first administration in paediatric patients with cystic fibrosis. J Cyst Fibros 2017;16:709–712.

Brody A, Klein J, Molina P, et al. High- resolution computed tomography in young patients with cystic fibrosis: distribution of abnormalities and correlation with pulmonary function tests. Journal of Pediatrics 2004;145:32–38.
Endocrine abnormalities in cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome: a case of precocious puberty, hyperprolactinemia and diabetes insipidus
Authors: Lenet Stephanie , Polychronakos Constantin
Published: June 2019

A 7-year-8-month-old boy with cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome caused by the D638E mutation of the B-Raf proto-oncogene (BRAF) presented with new-onset seizures. He was incidentally found to have advanced Tanner staging on physical examination. Hormonal testing revealed pubertal levels of gonadotropins and sex steroid hormones. On brain imaging, a lack of visualisation of the posterior pituitary bright spot was observed, in addition to mild thinning of the corpus callosum and the lateral gyri of the cerebellar hemispheres. A diagnosis of idiopathic central precocious puberty was made and the patient was started on leuprolide depot treatment. Pituitary hormone testing revealed hyperprolactinemia for which the patient did not receive treatment as he was asymptomatic. During a subsequent hospital admission for seizures, the patient was diagnosed with transient central diabetes insipidus for which he required treatment with a desmopressin infusion.
Survey of the effect of viewing an online e-cigarette advertisement on attitudes towards cigarette and e-cigarette use in adults located in the UK and USA: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Booth Paula , Albery Ian P , Cox Sharon , Frings Daniel
Published: June 2019

Objectives

This study explored the potential for e-cigarette advertisements to (1) enhance attitudes towards cigarettes and/or (2) reduce barriers to e-cigarettes uptake. The study tested whether exposure to an online electronic cigarette advertisement changed attitudes towards cigarettes and e-cigarettes in smokers, non-smokers, e-cigarette users and dual users (smokers who also use e-cigarettes).

Design

Cross-sectional study

Setting

Online survey

Participants

Adults (n=964) aged 18 to 65 years old (M=36 years, SD=11.6) from the UK and USA. Participants were grouped into current non-smokers, e-cigarette users, dual users and smokers.

Interventions

Participants viewed 1 of 15 randomly assigned online e-cigarette advertisements.

Primary measures

Three single seven-point Likert scales measuring health, desirability, social acceptability were completed pre and post advertisement exposure.

Results

Post exposure all smoking groups showed a decrease or no change in how socially acceptable or desirable they rated cigarettes. Paradoxically, dual users rated cigarettes as being significantly healthier after viewing the advertisement (p=0.01) while all other smoking group ratings remained the same. There was an increase or no change in how all smoking groups perceived the healthiness and desirability of e-cigarettes

Conclusions

We observed no evidence that exposure to an e-cigarette advertisement renormalises or encourages smoking in smokers, non-smokers or e-cigarette users. However, there is some indication that viewing an e-cigarette advertisement may increase duals users’ perceptions of the health of smoking.
First responder communication in CBRN environments: FIRCOM-CBRN study
Authors: Schumacher Jan , Arlidge James , Dudley Declan , Van Ross Jennifer , Garnham Francesca , Prior Kate
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Recent terror attacks and assassinations involving highly toxic chemical weapons have stressed the importance of sufficient respiratory protection of medical first responders and receivers. As full-face respirators cause perceptual-motor impairment, they not only impair vision but also significantly reduce speech intelligibility. The recent introduction of electronic voice projection units (VPUs), attached to a respirator, may improve communication while wearing personal respiratory protection.

Objective

To determine the influence of currently used respirators and VPUs on medical communication and speech intelligibility.

Methods

37 trauma anaesthetists carried out an evaluation exercise of six different respirators and VPUs including one control. Participants had to listen to audio clips of a variety of sentences dealing with scenarios of emergency triage and medical history taking.

Results

In the questionnaire, operators stated that speech intelligibility of the Avon C50 respirator scored the highest (mean 3.9, ±SD 1.0) and that the Respirex Powered Respiratory Protective Suit (PRPS) NHS-suit scored lowest (1.6, 0.9). Regarding loudness the C50 plus the Avon VPU scored highest (4.1, 0.7), followed by the Draeger FPS-7000-com-plus (3.4, 1.0) and the Respirex PRPS NHS-suit scored lowest (2.3, 0.8).

Conclusions

We found that the Avon C50 is the preferred model among the tested respirators. In our model, electronic voice projection modules improved loudness but not speech intelligibility. The Respirex PRPS NHS-suit was rated significantly less favourably in respect of medical communication and speech intelligibility.
Medical crowdfunding in China: empirics and ethics
Authors: Jin Pingyue
Published: June 2019

Medical crowdfunding has become a popular choice worldwide for people with unaffordable health needs. In low-income and middle-income countries with limited social welfare arrangements and a high incidence of catastrophic health spending, the market for medical crowdfunding is booming. However, relevant research was conducted exclusively in North America and Europe; little is known about medical crowdfunding activities inother contexts. As a first step towards filling this knowledge gap, this study depicts the realities of medical crowdfunding in a middle-income country China through empirical investigation and ethical analysis. We examine 100 randomly selected medical campaigns from a major Chinese crowdfunding platform and analyse the relevance of the previously identified ethical concerns to the Chinese context. The empirical findings show that Chinese campaigns have low and uneven success rates, require legally the participation of charitable organisations and focus on financial distress and family values in appealing for donations. In addition, the ethical analysis suggests that medical crowdfunding in China shares several ethical concerns raised in developed countries such as the veracity of claims and privacy violation. More importantly, our research reveals the inadequacy of current evidence and the lack of indicators to evaluate ethical issues in practice. Additional research is needed to better understand this fundraising practice across different social and cultural contexts.
Measuring experience and outcomes in patients reporting sexual violence who attend a healthcare setting: a systematic review
Authors: Caswell Rachel J , Ross Jonathan DC , Lorimer Karen
Published: June 2019

Background

Obtaining perspectives from those seeking healthcare after sexual violence on care and how it is delivered is important.

Objectives

To systematically identify any existing patient-reported outcome and experience measures (PROMs and PREMs) for patients attending healthcare services after sexual violence. Also, to identify key themes regarded by patients as priorities for delivering a high-quality service.

Design

Systematic review (PROSPERO registration RD42016050297).

Data sources

Eight electronic bibliographic databases from inception to March 2017. ‘Grey’ literature also searched. Search words included patient view, patient experience, PROM/PREM, sexual violence, rape.

Review methods

Studies of any design, with participants of any gender and aged 13 years or older were included; studies only assessing the views of service providers were excluded. Appraisal tools assessed for study quality. Healthcare outcome data were assessed across the quantitative studies and key experiences across qualitative papers; Framework Analysis was used to synthesise the qualitative studies.

Results

From 4153 identified papers, 20 fulfilled criteria for inclusion: 10 qualitative, 8 quantitative and 2 mixed methods. No validated measure of assessing patient experience or outcome was identified. The synthesis of qualitative studies led to the assignment of two overarching themes around the importance of patient-focused and trauma-focused communication, and of care which enhances patient empowerment. A paucity of research within certain patient groups who experience sexual violence, in particular men and LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans) patients was noted.

Limitations

A broad definition of ‘healthcare setting’ incorporated a wide variety of venues limiting the applicability of findings in specific settings.

Conclusion

A validated and standardised approach to assess patient experience and outcome in healthcare settings after sexual violence is needed. Themes identified should be incorporated into PROM or PREM development. The review also suggests the need for a change in approach towards those who attend for healthcare after sexual violence to ensure patient autonomy.
Spatiotemporal Oscillatory Patterns During Working Memory Maintenance in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Subjective Cognitive Decline
Authors: Serrano N. , López-Sanz D. , Bruña R. , Garcés P. , Rodríguez-Rojo I. C. , Marcos A. , Crespo D. Prada , Maestú F.
Published: June 2019

Working memory (WM) is a crucial cognitive process and its disruption is among the earliest symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. While alterations of the neuronal processes underlying WM have been evidenced in mild cognitive impairment (MCI), scarce literature is available in subjective cognitive decline (SCD). We used magnetoencephalography during a WM task performed by MCI [Formula: see text], SCD [Formula: see text] and healthy elders [Formula: see text] to examine group differences during the maintenance period (0–4000[Formula: see text]ms). Data were analyzed using time–frequency analysis and significant oscillatory differences were localized at the source level. Our results indicated significant differences between groups, mainly during the early maintenance (250–1250[Formula: see text]ms) in the theta, alpha and beta bands and in the late maintenance (2750–3750[Formula: see text]ms) in the theta band. MCI showed lower local synchronization in fronto-temporal cortical regions in the early theta–alpha window relative to controls [Formula: see text] and SCD [Formula: see text], and in the late theta window relative to controls [Formula: see text] and SCD [Formula: see text]. Early theta–alpha power was significantly correlated with memory scores [Formula: see text] and late theta power was correlated with task performance [Formula: see text] and functional activity scores [Formula: see text]. In the early beta window, MCI showed reduced power in temporo-posterior regions relative to controls [Formula: see text] and SCD [Formula: see text]. Our results may suggest that these alterations would reflect that memory-related networks are damaged.
Exact-Differential Simulation
Authors: Hanai Masatoshi , Suzumura Toyotaro , Liu Elvis S. , Theodoropoulos Georgios , Perumalla Kalyan S.
Published: June 2019

Using computer simulation to analyze large-scale discrete event systems requires repeated executions with various scenarios or parameters. Such repeated executions can induce significant redundancy in event processing when the modification from a prior scenario to a new scenario is relatively minor, and when the altered scenario influences only a small part of the simulation. For example, in a city-scale traffic simulation, an altered scenario of blocking one junction may only affect a small part of the city for considerable length of time. However, traditional simulation approaches would still repeat the simulation for the whole city even when the changes are minor. In this article, we propose a new redundancy reduction technique for large-scale discrete event simulations, called
exact-differential simulation
, which simulates only the altered portions of scenarios and their influences in repeated executions while still achieving the same results as the re-execution of entire simulations. This article presents the main concepts of the exact-differential simulation, the design of its algorithm, and an approach to build an exact-differential simulation middleware that supports multiple applications of discrete event simulation. We also evaluate our approach by using two case studies, PHOLD benchmark and a traffic simulation of Tokyo.
Environmental Audio Scene and Sound Event Recognition for Autonomous Surveillance
Authors: Chandrakala S. , Jayalakshmi S. L.
Published: June 2019

Monitoring of human and social activities is becoming increasingly pervasive in our living environment for public security and safety applications. The recognition of suspicious events is important in both indoor and outdoor environments, such as child-care centers, smart-homes, old-age homes, residential areas, office environments, elevators, and smart cities. Environmental audio scene and sound event recognition are the fundamental tasks involved in many audio surveillance applications. Although numerous approaches have been proposed, robust environmental audio surveillance remains a huge challenge due to various reasons, such as various types of overlapping audio sounds, background noises, and lack of universal and multi-modal datasets. The goal of this article is to review various features of representing audio scenes and sound events and provide appropriate machine learning algorithms for audio surveillance tasks. Benchmark datasets are categorized based on the real-world scenarios of audio surveillance applications. To have a quantitative understanding, some of the state-of-the-art approaches are evaluated based on two benchmark datasets for audio scenes and sound event recognition tasks. Finally, we outline the possible future directions for improving the recognition of environmental audio scenes and sound events.
A Survey on Big Multimedia Data Processing and Management in Smart Cities
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Jan Mian Ahmad , He Xiangjian , Chen Jinjun
Published: June 2019

Integration of embedded multimedia devices with powerful computing platforms, e.g., machine learning platforms, helps to build smart cities and transforms the concept of Internet of Things into Internet of Multimedia Things (IoMT). To provide different services to the residents of smart cities, the IoMT technology generates big multimedia data. The management of big multimedia data is a challenging task for IoMT technology. Without proper management, it is hard to maintain consistency, reusability, and reconcilability of generated big multimedia data in smart cities. Various machine learning techniques can be used for automatic classification of raw multimedia data and to allow machines to learn features and perform specific tasks. In this survey, we focus on various machine learning platforms that can be used to process and manage big multimedia data generated by different applications in smart cities. We also highlight various limitations and research challenges that need to be considered when processing big multimedia data in real-time.
USP9X promotes LPS-induced pulmonary epithelial barrier breakdown and hyperpermeability by activating an NF-κBp65 feedback loop
Authors: Xiang Yijin , Zhang Shaoyan , Lu Jia , Zhang Wen , Cai Min , Qiu Dongze , Cai Dingfang
Published: June 2019

NF-κB is a central regulator of inflammatory and immune responses and has been shown to regulate transcription of several inflammatory factors as well as promote acute lung injury. However, the regulation of NF-κB signaling in acute lung injury has yet to be investigated. Human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells (HPAEpiC) were treated with LPS to establish an acute lung injury model in vitro in which LPS stimulation resulted in pulmonary epithelial barrier breakdown and hyperpermeability. Cell viability was measured by CCK-8, and the transepithelial permeability was examined by measurement of transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and the transepithelial flux. Expression of ubiquitin-specific peptidase 9 X-linked (USP9X), zonula occludens (ZO-1), occludin and NF-κBp65, and the secretion of TNF-α and IL-1β were measured by Western blotting and ELISA, respectively. For in vivo studies, mice were intraperitoneally injected with LPS and/or NF-κB inhibitor pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC). Lung tissues were harvested for hematoxylin-eosin staining and Western blotting, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was harvested for ELISA. We found that treatment with LPS in HPAEpiC inhibited cell viability and induced the expression of USP9X. Interestingly, knockdown of USP9X and treatment with PDTC suppressed LPS-induced HPAEpiC injury. USP9X overexpression promoted NF-κB activation, while NF-κB inactivation inhibited USP9X transcription and HPAEpiC injury induced by USP9X overexpression. Furthermore, LPS also induced the expression of USP9X in lungs, which was inhibited by PDTC. Taken together, these results demonstrate a critical role of USP9X-NF-κBp65 loop in mediating LPS-induced acute lung injury and may serve as a potential therapeutic target in acute lung injury.
Hemolytic Crisis following Naphthalene Mothball Ingestion in a 21-Month-Old Patient with Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) Deficiency
Authors: Dela Cruz Maricel , Khalid Muhammad Masood , Mostafa Ahmed , Ershad Muhammed , Vearrier David , McKeever Rita
Published: June 2019

Introduction. Naphthalene is an aromatic hydrocarbon that may be found in mothballs and deodorizers. Exposure can occur by ingestion or dermal absorption. We present a case of acute hemolysis requiring blood transfusion in a 21-month-old male with a history of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency after ingestion of a naphthalene-containing mothball. Case Presentation. A 21-month-old male with G6PD deficiency presented to the emergency department three hours following an exploratory ingestion of a naphthalene-containing mothball. On arrival, the patient was tachycardic with normal blood pressure, temperature, respiratory rate, and oxygen saturation. Initial laboratory studies showed significant anemia with elevated reticulocyte count, blood urea nitrogen, total bilirubin, and lactate dehydrogenase. Haptoglobin level was low, and the methemoglobin level was unremarkable. The patient was admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit and underwent blood transfusion. Discussion. This case serves as a reminder that mothballs, a ubiquitous household item, can be hazardous when accessible to vulnerable children. Care should be taken to secure these products and prevent ingestion.
Bilateral Bone Ridge Splitting in Maxilla with Immediate Implant Placement in a Patient with Osteoporosis: A Clinical Report with 2-Year Follow-up
Authors: Flieger Rafał
Published: June 2019

Every year, a higher percentage of bisphosphonates is prescribed for osteoporosis treatment which can lead to bone osteonecrosis after several surgical procedures in the oral cavity. This report describes an approach to restore two missing teeth, employing bilateral bone ridge splitting in the maxilla with immediate placement of implants in a patient using bisphosphonates in the management of osteoporosis. Two titanium implants with a width of 3.45 mm and a length of 10 mm were placed in the maxillary ridge with a diameter of 4.4 mm and 3.0 mm in positions 15 and 24 according to the classification of the World Dental Federation. The implants were placed immediately by bone splitting, using a piezosurgery device and guided bone regeneration with an alloplastic material and a collagen membrane. Five months later, the implants were uncovered and the final porcelain crowns were cemented. 24 months later, the control through clinical and radiographical examinations showed no bone loss in the collar part of the implants and the proper status of the peri-implant soft tissue without any signs of inflammation. Piezosurgery is a useful and safe method of ridge splitting in a very thin ridge (4.5 and 3.0 mm).
Mutual Interference and Coupling Response of Multicylinder Vibration among Combine Harvester Co‐Frame
Authors: Tang Zhong , Zhang Haotian , Zhou Yuepeng , Li Yu
Published: June 2019

Unbalanced vibrations of axial threshing cylinders on a combine harvester were coupled to each other through a frame. The intensified unbalanced vibration will shorten the working life of the axial threshing cylinder. In this paper, the theoretical modes of the axial threshing cylinder were carried out by using finite element analysis software ANSYS. The axis trajectory and speed fluctuation of the axial threshing cylinder under no‐load state and threshing state were tested and analyzed. According to the amplitude and axis trajectory of the transmission shaft, as well as the variation law of the axial threshing cylinder speed, the influence of rice straw on the vibration under the threshing state was revealed. The rotation speeds of cylinder I and cylinder III were adjusted, and the amplitude of cylinder II transmission shaft was analyzed when cylinder II was under stable condition. Then the disturbance and coupling relationships among the unbalanced vibration of axial threshing cylinders were compared. Test results showed that the rotational frequency of the axial threshing cylinder was not in its resonance interval at rated speed. When the axial threshing cylinder was threshing, the horizontal amplitude increased by 0.366 mm. The vertical amplitude increased by 0.697 mm. The speed decreased from 763 rpm to about 750 rpm. The rotational frequency of the axial threshing cylinder would not cause the resonance. With the feeding of rice, the amplitude of the axial threshing cylinder increased slightly and the operating speed was lower than the rated speed. The unbalanced vibration of the axial threshing cylinder transmitted along the frame and coupled with each other, causing the vibration of the axial threshing cylinder to be intensified.
On Symmetric Identities of Carlitz’s Type q-Daehee Polynomials
Authors: Kim Won Joo , Jang Lee-Chae , Kim Byung Moon
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we study Carlitz’s type q-Daehee polynomials and investigate the symmetric identities for them by using the p-adic q-integral on Zp under the symmetry group of degree n.
Level of Awareness of Dengue Disease among School Children in Gampaha District, Sri Lanka, and Effect of School-Based Health Education Programmes on Improving Knowledge and Practices
Authors: Radhika N. M. L. , Gunathilaka Nayana , Udayanga Lahiru , Kasturiratne Anuradhani , Abeyewickreme Wimaladharma
Published: June 2019

Introduction. Limited awareness and nonsystematized health education programmes have contributed adversely to the increase in dengue incidence at schools due to limited attention which has positively contributed to the increase in vector receptivity. The current study was conducted to evaluate the existing level of awareness of dengue infection among a selected group of school children and to assess the effectiveness of dengue awareness programmes to improve the existing knowledge and preventive practices on dengue. Methods. A cohort of 2,194 students (13–15 years old) from 10 schools at Kelaniya educational zone, Gampaha District, Western Province of Sri Lanka, was enrolled for the current study, which was conducted during 2015-2016. A self-administered questionnaire, comprising 20 questions, was used to evaluate the present knowledge of the students on various aspects of dengue. A structured awareness programme (2 hours) was conducted for students, followed by a reassessment. General Linear Model (GLM) and chi-square test of independence were used to investigate the variations in knowledge levels. Results. The majority of students were characterized by “Good” (46.31%, n= 1016) and “Moderate” (42.62%, n= 935) awareness, while only 2.92% (n= 64) of students fell into the “Excellent” (>80%) category prior to the awareness programme. Even though, existing knowledge of students about dengue ranged between “Moderate” and “Good” categories, awareness of “symptoms & patient care” and “control & prevention practices” were limited. After the programme, the awareness level reached the “Excellent” (41.84%, n=918) level indicating a significant increase by 38.92%, according to the chi-square test (p<0.05 at 95% level of confidence). Conclusion. We recommend implementing school-based educational programmes in order to raise the awareness and to translate knowledge into sound practice to control dengue disease epidemics in these areas.
Propagation Model in Indoor and Outdoor for the LTE Communications
Authors: Noh Sun-Kuk , Choi DongYou
Published: June 2019

Rapidly rising demand for radio communication and the explosion in the number of mobile communications service subscribers have led to the need for optimization in the development of fifth-generation (5G) mobile communication systems. Previous studies on the development of propagation models considering a propagation environment in the existing microwave band have been mainly focused on analyzing the propagation characteristics with regard to large-scale factors such as path losses, delay propagation, and angle diffusions. In this paper, we investigated the concept of spatial and time changes ratios in the measurement of wave propagations and measured RSRP of Long Term Evolution (LTE) signals at three locations considering the time rate of 1% and 50%. We confirmed the concept of spatial and time changes rate based on the results of analyzing the signal data measured and proposed the propagation models 1 and 2 in microcell downtown. The forecast results using proposed models 1 and 2 were better than the COST231 model in both indoor and outdoor measured places. It was predicted between a time rate of 1% and 50% indoor within 400m and outdoor within 200m. In the future, we will study the propagation model of 5G mobile communication as well as the current 4G communication using artificial intelligence technology.
Neurodisability with Severe Restriction of Mobility Is Associated with Reduced Serum Creatinine Values
Authors: Lim Chun , Phillips Marianne , Watson Liam , Eisenhut Michael
Published: June 2019

Introduction.We investigated whether reduced mobility is associated with a reduction in serum creatinine in otherwise well children with neurodisability.Materials and Methods.This was a record based retrospective study and creatinine levels of children in groups with Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) category 1, 2, or 3 (group I); GMFCS 4 or 5 (group II); and age matched controls (group III) were compared.Results.Creatinine values were significantly different (p=0.002) between patients with neurodisability (mean 32.0 (SD 9.3), n=88) compared to patients without (mean 36.5 SD (9.8), n=88). There was no significant difference in creatinine levels (p=0.684) between group I (mean 35.6 (9.1), n=23) and group III (mean 36.5 (9.8), n=88). A significantly lower creatinine level (p<0.001) was found in group II (mean 30.7 (9.1), n=65) compared to group III and group I compared to group II (p=0.034). Creatinine levels were with a mean (SD) of 25.7 (4.1) micromol/l significantly lower in patients with GMFCS 4 or 5 who died (n=4) compared to survivors (31.1 (3.6)), (p=0.04, n=61).Conclusions.Children with neurodisability with severe mobility restriction had a significantly lower serum creatinine compared to controls with less severe or no neurodisability. Death in severe neurodisability may be associated with lower creatinine levels.
A Mechanical Quadrature Method for Solving Delay Volterra Integral Equation with Weakly Singular Kernels
Authors: Zhang Li , Huang Jin , Pan Yubin , Wen Xiaoxia
Published: June 2019

In this work, a mechanical quadrature method based on modified trapezoid formula is used for solving weakly singular Volterra integral equation with proportional delays. An improved Gronwall inequality is testified and adopted to prove the existence and uniqueness of the solution of the original equation. Then, we study the convergence and the error estimation of the mechanical quadrature method. Moreover, Richardson extrapolation based on the asymptotic expansion of error not only possesses a high accuracy but also has the posterior error estimate which can be used to design self‐adaptive algorithm. Numerical experiments demonstrate the efficiency and applicability of the proposed method.
Nontraditional Use of TEE to Evaluate Hepatic Vasculature and Guide Surgical Management in Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
Authors: Khurmi Narjeet , Seman Mitchell , Gaitan Brantley , Young Scott , Rosenfeld David , Giorgakis Emmanouil , Hewitt Winston , Mathur Amit
Published: June 2019

Intraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) during orthotopic liver transplant (OLT) is used to gather real-time information on cardiovascular function and intravascular volume status. We report a case where nonstandard TEE views were used to inspect the hepatic vasculature after allograft implantation. A 29-year-old male with secondary biliary cirrhosis with a MELD score of 20 underwent OLT using a liver from a 21-year-old brain-dead donor. Postreperfusion TEE, using the modified hepatic vein views, confirmed the presence of an inferior vena cava (IVC) suprahepatic anastomotic stenosis and hepatic vein and IVC thrombus resulting in hepatic venous outflow obstruction, allograft congestion, and hemodynamic instability. These nonstandard TEE images established the extent of suprahepatic caval outflow obstruction, in which intraoperative ultrasound was unable to definitively demonstrate. This guided real-time surgical decision-making in the postimplantation phase of the operation—ultimately leading to hepatic vein and IVC thrombectomy and revision of suprahepatic caval anastomosis.
Colorectal Perforation in Patients with Connective Tissue Disease
Authors: Sugimoto Kiichi , Sakamoto Kazuhiro , Okazawa Yu , Takahashi Rina , Mizukoshi Kosuke , Ro Hisashi , Kawai Masaya , Kawano Shingo , Munakata Shinya , Ishiyama Shun , Kamiyama Hirohiko , Takahashi Makoto , Kojima Yutaka , Tomiki Yuichi , Tamura Naoto
Published: June 2019

Purpose.The goal of this retrospective study was to identify prognostic factors associated with mortality after surgery for colorectal perforation among patients with connective tissue disease (CTD) and to review postoperative outcomes based on these prognostic factors.Methods.The subjects were 105 patients (CTD group: n=26, 24.8%; non-CTD group: n=79, 75.2%) who underwent surgery for colorectal perforation at our department. Cases with iatrogenic perforation due to colonoscopic examination were excluded from the study. We retrospectively investigated perioperative clinicopathological factors in patients undergoing surgery for colorectal perforation.Results.There were 7 patients (6.7%) who died within 28 days after surgery in all patients. In multivariate analysis, CTD and fecal peritonitis emerged as significant independent prognostic factors (p=0.005, odds ratio=12.39; p=0.04, odds ratio=7.10, respectively). There were 5 patients (19.2%) who died within 28 days after surgery in the CTD group. In multivariate analysis, fecal peritonitis emerged as a significant independent prognostic factor in the CTD group (p=0.03, odds ratio=31.96). The cumulative survival curve in the CTD group was significantly worse than that in the non-CTD group (p=0.006). An analysis based on the presence of fecal peritonitis indicated no significant difference in cumulative survival curves for patients without fecal peritonitis in the CTD and non-CTD groups (p=0.55) but a significant difference in these curves for patients with fecal peritonitis in the two groups (p<0.0001).Conclusions.This study demonstrated that cumulative survival in patients with CTD is significantly worse than that in patients without CTD after surgery for colorectal perforation.
Proportion of Variant Anatomy of the Circle of Willis and Association with Vascular Anomalies on Cerebral CT Angiography
Authors: Machasio Roy Munialo , Nyabanda Rose , Mutala Timothy Musila
Published: June 2019

Background and Purpose. There is a wide variation in the anatomy of the CW in different individuals and population groups. The purpose of this study was to determine the proportion of variant anatomy of the circle of Willis (CW) and associated anomalies in patients with suspected cerebrovascular disease referred for cerebral computed tomography angiography (CTA) in two tertiary hospitals in Kenya.Methodology.This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted on 94 patients referred for cerebral CTA at the Kenyatta and Nairobi hospitals from August 2017 to February 2018. MIP and 3D reformatted images were analyzed by two senior radiologists to determine the final configuration of the CW and presence of vascular pathology. Vessels with diameters <0.8 mm were considered to be absent or hypoplastic. Chen et al. classification was used to determine the final configuration of CW.Results. Complete CW was seen in 37.2% (37.7% vs. 36.6% in males and females, respectively, p=0.909). Type A variant was the commonest anterior variant at 78.7%. Type E variant was the dominant posterior variant at 41.5%. Fetal PCA was demonstrated in 25.5%, unilateral > bilateral fetal PCA. Aneurysms were seen in 24.5% of patients. ACoA aneurysms were commonest at 43.6%. AVMs were seen in 8.5% of patients. Azygous ACA, fenestration, and duplication of vessels and persistent TA were not demonstrated. There is no significant association between aneurysms/AVMs and CW configuration.Conclusion. The findings in this study demonstrate slight differences in the CW configuration. A higher proportion of complete anterior CW was seen in female patients. Type A anterior and type E posterior circulation variants were the commonest in both males and females. No significant association was demonstrated between CW configuration and occurrence of aneurysms/AVMs in this study. Various methods of classification of CW configuration have been proposed with no standardized method to date, thus the need for consensus building between neuroanatomists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, and neuroradiologists for ease of comparison between similar future studies on the CW.
Monomorphic Ventricular Tachycardia as a Presentation of Giant Cell Myocarditis
Authors: Chiu Michael H. , Trpkov Cvetan , Rezazedeh Saman , Chew Derek S.
Published: June 2019

Background. Idiopathic giant cell myocarditis (GCM) has a fulminant course and typically presents in middle-aged adults with acute heart failure or ventricular arrhythmia. It is a rare disorder which involves T lymphocyte-mediated myocardial inflammation. Diagnosis is challenging and requires a high index of suspicion since therapy may improve an otherwise uniformly fatal prognosis. Case Summary. A previously healthy 54-year-old female presented with hemodynamically significant ventricular arrhythmia (VA) and was found to have severe left ventricular dysfunction. Cardiac MRI demonstrated acute myocarditis, and endomyocardial biopsy showed giant cell myocarditis. She was treated with combined immunosuppressive therapy as well as guideline-directed medical therapy. A secondary prevention implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) was implanted. Discussion. GCM is a rare, lethal myocarditis subtype but is potentially treatable. Combined immunosuppression may achieve partial clinical remission in two-thirds of patients. VA is common, and patients should undergo ICD implantation. More research is needed to better understand this complex disease. Learning Objectives. Giant cell myocarditis is an incompletely understood, rare cause of myocarditis. Patients present predominately with heart failure and dysrhythmia. Diagnosis is confirmed by histopathology, and immunosuppression may improve outcomes. ICD implantation should be considered. In the absence of treatment, prognosis is poor with a median survival of three months.
The Relationship between Infant Colic and Migraine as well as Tension-Type Headache: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Dongli , Zhang Yuan , Sang Yan , Zheng Nuo , Liu Xiaoming
Published: June 2019

Background. Infant colic is a common benign disease during early infancy. Migraine and tension-type headache (TTH) are the most common primary headache forms among pediatric population. Several studies have investigated the incidence of infant colic in patients with migraine and TTH. The meta-analysis was to assess the relationship between infant colic and migraine as well as TTH. Methods. PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were searched until August 16, 2018, for potential studies. Data were extracted by two independent authors and analyzed using RevMan 5.2 software. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to determine the association between infant colic and migraine as well as TTH, respectively. Results. A total of 148 studies were found, and 7 studies were finally included. A higher incidence of colic during infancy was revealed in migraine patients than controls (P=0.05, OR: 2.51, 95% CI: 1.32–4.77) and TTH subjects (P=0.02, OR: 0.33, 95% CI: 0.13–0.86), respectively. And no significances were found between TTHs with controls (P=0.51, OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 0.73–1.89). Conclusion. This meta-analysis indicated that migraine was associated with increased incidence of infantile colic history, but TTH incidence was not relevant with the incidence of infantile colic history.