bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantum Dynamical Mutual Entropy Based on AOW Entropy
Authors: Ohmura Kyouhei , Watanabe Noboru
Published: July 2019

The classical dynamical mutual entropy measures the average of information content going through a channel. Classical Markovian sources are important in communication theory since they constitute reasonable models for languages. In this paper, we define the quantum dynamical mutual entropy through quantum Markov chains, and we calculate it for several simple models.
CASE REPORT: ODONTOGENIC CUTANEOUS FISTULA IN THE SUBMANDIBULAR CERVICAL SKIN IN TWO DOGS
Authors: Yang Shu-Fang , Chen Chung-Chao , Chang Pi-Chen , Yu Jian-Xi , Liang Wen-Wen , Liu Cheng-Jin , Yang Heng-Leng , Liang Sao-Ling
Published: July 2019

Odontogenic cutaneous fistula is commonly misdiagnosed by practitioners, leading to incorrect and unnecessary treatment. Here, we present two cases. Case 1 involved an eight-year-old intact male Maltese with a submandibular cutaneous abscess following 2 weeks of antibiotic treatment who was later diagnosed, using dental radiography, with odontogenic cutaneous fistula. Case 2 involved an eight-year-old neutered female Maltese with a submandibular cutaneous nodule and general skin problems following 6 months of oral antibiotics and a history of surgical intervention who was finally diagnosed, using dental radiography and computed tomography, with an odontogenic cutaneous fistula that resolved completely following tooth extraction. These two cases highlight the importance of odontogenic infection in the differential diagnosis of typical lesions in the head and neck.
Identifying and Analyzing Different Aspects of English-Hindi Code-Switching in Twitter
Authors: Rudra Koustav , Sharma Ashish , Bali Kalika , Choudhury Monojit , Ganguly Niloy
Published: July 2019

Code-switching or the juxtaposition of linguistic units from two or more languages in a single utterance, has, in recent times, become very common in text, thanks to social media and other computer mediated forms of communication. In this exploratory study of English-Hindi code-switching on Twitter, we automatically create a large corpus of code-switched tweets and devise techniques to identify the relationship between successive components in a code-switched tweet. More specifically, we identify pragmatic functions such as narrative-evaluative, negative reinforcement, translation or semantically equivalent statements, and so on characterizing the relation between successive components. We analyze the difference/similarity between switching patterns in code-switched and monolingual multi-component tweets. We observe strong dominance of narrative-evaluative (non-opinion to opinion or vice versa) switching in case of both code-switched and monolingual multi-component tweets in around 40% of cases. Polarity switching appears to be a prevalent switching phenomenon (10%) specifically in code-switched tweets (three to four times higher than monolingual multi-component tweets) where preference of expressing negative sentiment in Hindi is approximately twice compared to English. Positive reinforcement appears to be an important pragmatic function for English multi-component tweets, whereas negative reinforcement plays a key role for Devanagari multi-component tweets. Our results also indicate that the extent and nature of code-switching also strongly depend on the topic (sports, politics, etc.) of discussion.
Toward REDD+ Implementation
Authors: Maniatis Danae , Scriven Joel , Jonckheere Inge , Laughlin Jennifer , Todd Kimberly
Published: July 2019

After several years of REDD+ (reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries, and the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests, and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries) readiness, countries are starting to move toward REDD+ implementation and accessing results-based payments (RBPs). Currently various parallel processes for accessing RBPs exist, including project and jurisdictional—approaches that often operate under a nascent national framework. This review is structured around the key considerations for countries to implement REDD+ and access RBPs. It offers a discussion focusing on three areas that are crucial for the success of REDD+: ( a) REDD+ in the context of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ( b) the role of the private sector in achieving emissions reductions, and ( c) access to RBPs for REDD+. We present some key considerations for future issues and possible successes of REDD+ implementation.
Using What We Already Have: Uncovering New Drug Repurposing Strategies in Existing Omics Data
Authors: Pulley Jill M. , Rhoads Jillian P. , Jerome Rebecca N. , Challa Anup P. , Erreger Kevin B. , Joly Meghan M. , Lavieri Robert R. , Perry Kelly E. , Zaleski Nicole M. , Shirey-Rice Jana K. , Aronoff David M.
Published: July 2019

The promise of drug repurposing is to accelerate the translation of knowledge to treatment of human disease, bypassing common challenges associated with drug development to be more time- and cost-efficient. Repurposing has an increased chance of success due to the previous validation of drug safety and allows for the incorporation of omics. Hypothesis-generating omics processes inform drug repurposing decision-making methods on drug efficacy and toxicity. This review summarizes drug repurposing strategies and methodologies in the context of the following omics fields: genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, microbiomics, phenomics, pregomics, and personomics. While each omics field has specific strengths and limitations, incorporating omics into the drug repurposing landscape is integral to its success.
p53-cyclophilin D mediates renal tubular cell apoptosis in ischemia-reperfusion-induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Yang Huan , Li Ruizhao , Zhang Li , Zhang Shu , Dong Wei , Chen Yuanhan , Wang Weidong , Li Chunling , Ye Zhiming , Zhao Xingchen , Li Zhilian , Wu Yanhua , Zhang Mengxi , Liu Shuangxin , Dong Zheng , Liang Xinling
Published: July 2019

Ischemia-reperfusion (I/R)-induced acute kidney injury (I/R-AKI) favors mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening and subsequent cell death. Cyclophilin D (CypD) is an essential component of the mPTP, and recent findings have implicated the p53-CypD complex in cell death. To evaluate the role of p53-CypD after I/R-AKI, we tested the hypothesis that the p53-CypD complex mediates renal tubular cell apoptosis in I/R-AKI via mPTP opening. Expression of p53 and cleaved caspase-3 was significantly increased in rats subjected to I/R-AKI compared with normal controls and sham-operated controls. The underlying mechanisms were determined using an in vitro model of ATP depletion. Inhibition of mPTP opening using the CypD inhibitor cyclosporin A or siRNA for p53 in ATP-depleted HK-2 cells prevented mitochondrial membrane depolarization and reduced apoptosis. Furthermore, p53 bound to CypD in ATP-depleted HK-2 cells. These results suggest that the p53-CypD complex mediates renal tubular cell apoptosis in I/R-AKI via mPTP opening.
Sex-related differences in the intratubular renin-angiotensin system in two-kidney, one-clip hypertensive rats
Authors: Lee Sang Ho , Lee Yu Ho , Jung Su Woong , Kim Dong Jin , Park Seon Hwa , Song Seok Jong , Jeong Kyung Hwan , Moon Ju Young , Ihm Chun-Gyoo , Lee Tae Won , Kim Jin Sug , Sohn Il Suk , Lee So-Young , Kim Dong-Ok , Kim Yang Gyun
Published: July 2019

The intratubular renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is thought to play an essential role in hypertensive renal disease, but information regarding sex-related differences in this system is limited. The present study investigated sex differences in the intratubular RAS in two-kidney, one-clip (2K1C) rats. A 2.5-mm clip was placed on the left renal artery of Sprague-Dawley rats, and rats were euthanized 3 or 5 wk after the operation. Systolic blood pressure increased in 2K1C rats in both sexes but was significantly higher in male rats than in female rats, and an antihypertensive effect was not observed in 2K1C ovariectomized (OVX) female rats. Compared with male 2K1C rats, intratubular angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and ANG II were repressed, and intratubular ACE2, angiotensin (1–7), and Mas receptor were increased in both kidneys in female 2K1C rats 5 wk after surgery. Comparison with male and female rats and intratubular mRNA levels of ACE and ANG II type 1 receptor were augmented in OVX female rats, regardless of the clipping surgery 3 wk postoperation. ANG II type 2 receptor was upregulated in female rats with or without OVX; thus, the ANG II type 1-to-type 2 receptor ratio was higher in male rats than in female rats. In conclusion, female rats were protected from hypertensive renal and cardiac injury after renal artery clipping. An increase in the intratubular nonclassic RAS [ACE2/angiotensin (1–7)/Mas receptor] and a decrease in the ANG II type 1-to-type 2 receptor ratio could limit the adverse effects of the classic RAS during renovascular hypertension in female rats, and estrogen is suggested to play a primary role in the regulation of intratubular RAS components.
Enhancing research quality of studies on VEMPs in central neurological disorders: a scoping review
Authors: Deriu Franca , Ginatempo Francesca , Manca Andrea
Published: July 2019

Common pitfalls in vestibular-evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) recording methods have been extensively outlined by several reviews. Conversely, the robustness of research methodology employed for the design and conduct of VEMP studies has never been appraised. To fill this void, we conducted a scoping review to map and evaluate the overall quality of the existing literature on VEMPs in central neurological disorders. Five databases were searched from inception to October 2018 for case-control studies on multiple sclerosis (MS), cerebellar and/or brainstem strokes, Parkinson's disease (PD), migraine, and tumors of the cerebellopontine angle. Study quality was assessed using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality criteria (AHRQ). The 11-criteria AHRQ scoring system revealed that PD studies achieved a score of 5/11, migraine and cerebellar and/or brainstem stroke a score of 4/11, MS and tumors of the cerebellopontine angle a score of 3/11. Age was found to be one of the main sources of case-control imbalance: compared with controls, cases were significantly older with a 3.6-yr difference in MS studies, 6 yr in PD, up to 12 yr in stroke and tumors. Regardless of pathological condition, case-control groups were found unmatched also by gender. Post hoc power calculations revealed that 53% of the studies achieved the minimum statistical power of 80%. This scoping review revealed low research quality across the literature on VEMPs in central neurological disorders. Scoping lines are provided on actions to be undertaken in future studies to establish a common methodological platform and enhance the quality of research in this field.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Robust methodology is a prerequisite for any type of research, particularly for observational designs such as those employed in vestibular-evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) research. On these premises, this scoping review provides methodological guidelines to improve validity, accuracy and consistency of clinical outcomes from VEMP studies involving central nervous system disorders. In fact, the high risk for bias that is inherent to poor methodology threatens the validity of the findings of works that are technically sound but methodologically flawed.
Posttraining Alpha Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation Impairs Motor Consolidation in Elderly People
Authors: Rumpf Jost-Julian , Barbu Alexandru , Fricke Christopher , Wegscheider Mirko , Classen Joseph
Published: July 2019

The retention of a new sequential motor skill relies on repeated practice and subsequent consolidation in the absence of active skill practice. While the early phase of skill acquisition remains relatively unaffected in older adults, posttraining consolidation appears to be selectively impaired by advancing age. Motor learning is associated with posttraining changes of oscillatory alpha and beta neuronal activities in the motor cortex. However, whether or not these oscillatory dynamics relate to posttraining consolidation and how they relate to the age-specific impairment of motor consolidation in older adults remains elusive. Transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique capable of modulating such neuronal oscillations. Here, we examined whether tACS targeting M1 immediately following explicit motor sequence training is capable of modulating motor skill consolidation in older adults. In two sets of double-blind, sham-controlled experiments, tACS targeting left M1 was applied at either 10 Hz (alpha-tACS) or 20 Hz (beta-tACS) immediately after termination of a motor sequence training with the right (dominant) hand. Task performance was retested after an interval of 6 hours to assess consolidation of the training-acquired skill. EEG was recorded over left M1 to be able to detect local after-effects on oscillatory activity induced by tACS. Relative to the sham intervention, consolidation was selectively disrupted by posttraining alpha-tACS of M1, while posttraining beta-tACS of M1 had no effect on delayed retest performance compared to the sham intervention. No significant postinterventional changes of oscillatory activity in M1 were detected following alpha-tACS or beta-tACS. Our findings point to a frequency-specific interaction of tACS with posttraining motor memory processing and may suggest an inhibitory role of immediate posttraining alpha oscillations in M1 with respect to motor consolidation in healthy older adults.
Dynamic Modeling and Analysis of a Novel 6‐DOF Robotic Crusher Based on Movement Characteristics
Authors: Li Guoguang , Shi Boqiang , Liu Ruiyue
Published: July 2019

This paper proposes a novel 6‐DOF robotic crusher that combines the performance characteristics of the cone crusher and parallel robot, such as interparticle breakage and high flexibility. Kinematics and dynamics are derived from the no‐load and crushing parts in order to clearly describe the whole crushing process. For the no‐load case, the kinematic and dynamic equations are established by using analytical geometry and Lagrange equation. Analytical geometry is mainly used to solve the inverse kinematics and then establish the velocity relationship between generalized coordinates and actuators. Lagrange equation which takes into account the weight of the mantle and actuators is used to solve driving forces of actuators. For the crushing case, crushing pressure is related to the compression ratio and particle size distribution, but the selection and breakage functions should be established first. Because the trajectory model of the mantle is difficult to be established by using analytical method, it can be obtained by an eccentric simulation. The results of input velocities and driving forces of actuators are distinctive due to the eccentric angle and selection of the initial position. Finally, the proposed approach is verified by a numerical example and then the energy consumption is calculated.
The Effects of SLS on Structural and Complex Permittivity of SLS-HDPE Composites
Authors: Meli Abubakar Dantani , Abbas Zulkifly , Zaid Mohd Hafiz Mohd , Ibrahim Nor Azowa
Published: July 2019

RS-4050 is a rigid epoxy based magnetic castable microwave absorbing material; it has been used in many areas of waveguide application as a microwave waveguide terminations and dummy loads. In recent years, there is a demand for composites material with lower dielectric constant higher loss factor for microwave application. This research, the effect of soda lime silica (SLS) on structural and complex permittivity of soda lime silica-high density polyethylene (SLS-HDPE) composites was conducted in order to explore the possibility of substituting RS-4050 with SLS-HDPE composites as a microwave waveguide terminations and dummy loads. Elemental weight composition of the SLS glass powder and HDPE was identified through scaling of different percentage of SLS and HDPE. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used to investigate the crystallinity behavior of SLS-HDPE composites. The proposed SLS-HDPE composites material was studied at frequencies 8 to 12 GHz. The study was conducted using waveguide Agilent N5230A PNA technique. The effect of microwave frequency on complex permittivity properties for SLS-HDPE composites of different percentages of SLS and HDPE (10% SLS-90% HDPE, 20% SLS-80% HDPE, 30% SLS-70% HDPE, 40% SLS-60% HDPE, and 50% SLS-50% HDPE) were investigated. Results showed the diffraction patterns reveal good amorphous quality with a genuinely properties structure. The microwave frequency and composites percentages significantly influenced the complex permittivity (real and imaginary) properties of the composites. Moreover, the complex permittivity increased as the percentage of SLS filler increased in the host matrix HDPE as a result of increased in composite density due to less volume being occupied by the filler as the percentage increased. The complex permittivity of the smallest and largest percentages of SLS (10% and 50%) was (2.67-j0.05) and (3.45-j0.35), respectively. The study revealed that the best sample for waveguide application as microwave terminator is 50% SLS as it has the highest dielectric constant, highest loss factor, and highest loss tangent as compared to 10% SLS to 40% SLS. Also 50% SLS has the highest absorption properties as compare to 10% SLS, 20% SLS, 30% SLS, or 40% SLS. The XRD physical structure of the SLS-HDPE composites revealed the absorption characteristics of different percentages of the materials. The SLS-HDPE composites can be applied in the area of waveguide as a microwave waveguide terminations and dummy loads.
The Role of Occupational Therapy in Secondary Prevention of Diabetes
Authors: Shen Xizi , Shen Xingping
Published: July 2019

Diabetes mellitus is becoming a global health concern due to its prevalence and projected growth. Despite a growing number of interventions for secondary prevention of diabetes, there is a persistent poor glycemic control and poor adherence to the prescribed diabetes management regimen. In light of the tremendous costs of diabetes to both individuals and the society, it is pressing to find effective ways to improve diabetes self-management (DSM) and treatment adherence. Occupational therapists can bring values to the diabetes care team by evaluating multiple levels of influence on DSM, addressing personal and environmental barriers to well-being and DSM, and supporting patients to develop of a highly complex competences and skills to satisfactorily self-manage diabetes. This article summarizes two evidence-based, well-structured occupational therapy (OT) programs that use activity-based treatments and psychosocial strategies, respectively, to improve DSM abilities and to enhance quality of life. As the needs of adolescents with diabetes are quite different from other diabetic populations, this article also provides a summary of pediatric OT interventions that aim to facilitate autonomy and development of DSM ability among adolescents with diabetes. Evidence indicates that OT interventions can improve the quality of life and treatment adherence in patients with diabetes and hence should be continued and built on to address the increasing needs of diabetic populations.
Prediction of Chemotherapy Response of Osteosarcoma Using Baseline 18F-FDG Textural Features Machine Learning Approaches with PCA
Authors: Jeong Su Young , Kim Wook , Byun Byung Hyun , Kong Chang-Bae , Song Won Seok , Lim Ilhan , Lim Sang Moo , Woo Sang-Keun
Published: July 2019

Purpose. Patients with high-grade osteosarcoma undergo several chemotherapy cycles before surgical intervention. Response to chemotherapy, however, is affected by intratumor heterogeneity. In this study, we assessed the ability of a machine learning approach using baseline 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) positron emitted tomography (PET) textural features to predict response to chemotherapy in osteosarcoma patients. Materials and Methods. This study included 70 osteosarcoma patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Quantitative characteristics of the tumors were evaluated by standard uptake value (SUV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG), and metabolic tumor volume (MTV). Tumor heterogeneity was evaluated using textural analysis of 18F-FDG PET scan images. Assessments were performed at baseline and after chemotherapy using 18F-FDG PET; 18F-FDG textural features were evaluated using the Chang-Gung Image Texture Analysis toolbox. To predict the chemotherapy response, several features were chosen using the principal component analysis (PCA) feature selection method. Machine learning was performed using linear support vector machine (SVM), random forest, and gradient boost methods. The ability to predict chemotherapy response was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results. AUCs of the baseline 18F-FDG features SUVmax, TLG, MTV, 1st entropy, and gray level co-occurrence matrix entropy were 0.553, 0538, 0.536, 0.538, and 0.543, respectively. However, AUCs of the machine learning features linear SVM, random forest, and gradient boost were 0.72, 0.78, and 0.82, respectively. Conclusion. We found that a machine learning approach based on 18F-FDG textural features could predict the chemotherapy response using baseline PET images. This early prediction of the chemotherapy response may aid in determining treatment plans for osteosarcoma patients.
Experimental Study on Compression and Intrinsic Permeability Characteristics of Municipal Solid Waste
Authors: Zeng Gang , Ma Jun , Hu Dan , Wang Jing
Published: July 2019

Compression and gas permeability characteristics of municipal solid waste (MSW) are of great significance to the design, construction, management, and operation of landfill. The objective of this paper was to study the compression and gas permeability characteristics of MSW. A compressing test device and gas permeability test device for MSW were introduced, and laboratory tests were carried out. The test results showed that the final strains at the vertical loads of 100 kPa, 200 kPa, 300 kPa, and 400 kPa were 35.8%, 45.1%, 49.2%, and 55.1%, respectively. The natural logarithm of void ratio and pressure was linearly correlated at different times. Intrinsic permeability measured without considering gas compressibility was smaller than that measured with considering gas compressibility. Intrinsic permeability of MSW decreased with the increase of the inlet pressure. It was suggested that the inlet pressure should be set to 3 kPa for the indoor gas permeability test of MSW. Intrinsic permeability of MSW decreases with the increase of water content and compression displacement. Power function and logarithmic model were suitable for the fitting of permeability and porosity of manually prepared fresh MSW samples, while the K‐C model was not suitable. With the increase of moisture content, the coefficient and power index of the power function model decreased gradually. And the slope and intercept of the double logarithmic model also decreased gradually with the increase of moisture content.
Optimizing Nitrogen Fertilization Regimes for Sustainable Maize (Zea mays L.) Production on the Volcanic Soils of Buea Cameroon
Authors: Ngosong Christopher , Bongkisheri Victorine , Tanyi Clovis B. , Nanganoa Lawrence T. , Tening Aaron S.
Published: July 2019

Nitrogen (N) fertilizer is commonly used to improve soil fertility and maize production in Cameroon, but high cost and potential environmental effects have necessitated site-specific N fertilization regimes that are adapted to particular soil and crop types. A field experiment was conducted with five N application rates (control–0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 kg N ha−1) to determine optimum rate for best maize yield with limited effect on soil acidification. The soil residual N ranged from 0.18 to 0.36% across N application rates and increased at higher application rates with the highest in 150 and 200 kg N ha−1. Soil C/N ratio ranged from 7.5 to 15.5 across N rates with the highest in control, which decreased at higher N application rates. Soil pH ranged from 4.7 to 5.4 across N rates, with the lowest in 200 kg N ha−1 rate. Maize grain yield and cob length ranged from 7.1 to 10.3 t ha−1 and from 14.5 to 18 cm across N rates, respectively, with the highest in 150 and 200 kg N ha−1. Maize 1000-grain weight ranged from 380 to 560 g across N application rates with the highest in 100, 150, and 200 kg N ha−1. Significant negative correlations occurred between soil pH and maize yield or 1000-grain weight. Maize N use efficiency decreased sharply at higher N application rates, as demonstrated by a strong negative correlation between the N-Partial Factor Productivity and total soil N. Overall, the lower soil pH at higher N application rates highlights the potential for deleterious effects of N fertilizer inputs on arable soils, which may eventually affect crop productivity, thereby suggesting lower N fertilization regimes between 50 and 100 kg N ha−1 as the optimum for maize production on the volcanic soils of Buea.
A Computationally Efficient Finite Element Pedestrian Model for Head Safety: Development and Validation
Authors: Li Guibing , Tan Zheng , Lv Xiaojiang , Ren Lihai
Published: July 2019

Head injuries are often fatal or of sufficient severity to pedestrians in vehicle crashes. Finite element (FE) simulation provides an effective approach to understand pedestrian head injury mechanisms in vehicle crashes. However, studies of pedestrian head safety considering full human body response and a broad range of impact scenarios are still scarce due to the long computing time of the current FE human body models in expensive simulations. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to develop and validate a computationally efficient FE pedestrian model for future studies of pedestrian head safety. Firstly, a FE pedestrian model with a relatively small number of elements (432,694 elements) was developed in the current study. This pedestrian model was then validated at both segment and full body levels against cadaver test data. The simulation results suggest that the responses of the knee, pelvis, thorax, and shoulder in the pedestrian model are generally within the boundaries of cadaver test corridors under lateral impact loading. The upper body (head, T1, and T8) trajectories show good agreements with the cadaver data in vehicle-to-pedestrian impact configuration. Overall, the FE pedestrian model developed in the current study could be useful as a valuable tool for a pedestrian head safety study.
Effect of Nitrogen Fertilization on the Growth and Seed Yield of Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)
Authors: Zenawi Gebregergis , Mizan Amare
Published: July 2019

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is grown mainly in the tropics. It is typically grown by smallholders with nearly all of its production in developing countries. It is an important source of high-quality oil and protein. Inappropriate use of fertilizers and monocropping are among the major production constraints. The objective of this paper is therefore to review the effect of N fertilizers on sesame growth and productivity. Growth and yield of sesame are greatly influenced by the application of N fertilizer. In most of the sesame-producing countries, optimum seed yield of sesame was obtained from application of 46–100 kg·N/ha. Adequate nitrogen fertilization also improves uptakes of other nutrients, particularly P and K and some micronutrients. Preemergence application of mobile nitrogen (urea) is less efficient due to losses. Mobile form of N fertilizer became available within two days for the crop. Split N applications where the N fertilizer is applied at different growth stages of the crop increases productivity. Side-dress application is one of the easiest ways to maximize nitrogen use efficiency. N fertilizers should be placed 3–5 cm deeper than the seeds and 5–10 cm apart from the plant for side dress but not far than 20 cm. Under optimal environmental conditions, nitrogen fertilizer has no effect on phonological traits but on the growth parameters. In the potential areas, application of 46–100 kg·N/ha gives maximum yield and lowering the application of N to less than 46 kg·N/ha in marginal areas is economical.
Use of Dietary Supplements among Spanish Pediatricians in Daily Practice: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Authors: Güemes Heras Ignacio , Santamaría-Orleans Alicia , Colinas Herrero José F. , Gómez Sorrigueta Pilar , Ortiz González Luis , de la Iglesia-Arnaez Raquel , Canals Baeza Alejandro
Published: July 2019

A cross-sectional survey study was designed to gather information on the use of dietary supplements by Spanish pediatricians. The study questionnaire was completed by 433 pediatricians (62% men, mean age 52.5 years) throughout the country. They also provided data on 10 of their patients (n = 4304) in which synbiotics, immune stimulants, and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) had been prescribed. Synbiotics were used by 92% of pediatricians, immune stimulants by 80.4%, and omega-3 PUFAs by 75.1%. Synbiotics were mainly used combined with antibiotics (92.6%) and for gastrointestinal disorders (91.2%), immune stimulants to enhance defenses and cold prevention (87.1%), and omega-3 PUFAs to improve symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (84.8%) and concentration (80.1%). Confidence and previous experience with the product (51.6%), composition and indications of the product (43.1%), and tolerability (39.9%) were main factors involved in decision-making. Children treated with omega-3 supplements were significantly older (mean age 7.6 (3.0) years) than those treated with synbiotics (3.9 (3.9) years) or immune stimulants (3.4 (2.8) years) (P<0.001). Short duration of treatment (<1 month) was significantly more common in the synbiotics group (90.5%), whereas longer duration of treatment (>3 months) was more frequent in the omega-3 group (79.1%). In the immune stimulants group, 60.4% of patients were treated for a period between 1 and 3 months. Clinical improvement was rated by participants as “a lot” in 39% of cases and as “quite” improvement in 50.6%. The overall level of satisfaction was rated as “very satisfied” by 52.1% of participants and as “quite satisfied” by 40.9%. The results show that the use of dietary supplements to improve different conditions, particularly minor disorders, is a widespread clinical practice among Spanish pediatricians. Administration regimens for the three types of supplements, synbiotics, immune stimulants, and omega-3 PUFAs, were consistent with guideline recommendations.
A Research on the Effect of Heterogeneities on Sandstone Matrix Acidizing Performance
Authors: Mou Jianye , Wang Lei , Zhang Shicheng , Ma Xinfang , Li Boyang
Published: July 2019

Matrix acidizing is one of the common methods to enhance production in sandstone reservoirs. Conventional acidizing designs generally neglected the effect of heterogeneities of mineral and flow field distributions both in areal and vertical directions and assumed that the acid front propagates with a piston-like style. However, sandstone formations inevitably have small-scale heterogeneities of minerals and flow properties that may give rise to acid propagation in a manner much different from what is predicted based on homogeneous assumptions. In this paper, we conduct a research to numerically investigate how the heterogeneities affect acidizing performance under in situ conditions. Firstly, a heterogeneity model is built for mineral and porosity distributions by using the semivariogram model of geological statistics, based on which we generate spatially correlated porosity and mineral distributions. Next, a model of radial acid flooding is developed based on mass balance and the chemical reactions between the acids and minerals occurring during the acidizing process. The model is numerically solved to investigate the permeability response, acid distributions, precipitate distributions, and the effect of the heterogeneities on acidizing. The results show that the heterogeneities both in areal and vertical directions have a significant effect on acidizing. The flow field heterogeneities have a more serious impact than the mineral heterogeneities. In a plane, strong porosity heterogeneity can give rise to acid fingering and even channeling, which make the acid penetration distance longer than the homogeneous cases. The secondary precipitate has a significant effect when fast-reacting mineral content is high. Vertically, several-fold permeability contrast creates the acid break through the high-perm zone leaving the low-perm zone understimulated. Both flow field and mineral heterogeneities make it possible to create high-permeability channels during the acidizing process and to obtain a longer acid penetration distance.
Circular RNA hsa_circRNA_0007334 is Predicted to Promote MMP7 and COL1A1 Expression by Functioning as a miRNA Sponge in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yang Jinghui , Cong Xianling , Ren Ming , Sun Hongyan , Liu Tao , Chen Gaoyang , Wang Qingyu , Li Zhaoyan , Yu Shan , Yang Qiwei
Published: July 2019

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common type of pancreatic tumor. Many circular RNAs (circRNAs) have proven to play vital roles in the physiological and pathological processes of tumorigenesis; however, their biogenesis in PDAC remains unclear. In this study, the expression profiles of circRNAs from 10 PDAC tissues and their paired adjacent nontumor tissues were analyzed through RNA sequencing analysis. An enrichment analysis was employed to predict the functions of the differentially expressed circRNAs. Sequence alignment information and mRNA microarray projects were used to predict the RNA regulatory network. The knockdown of circRNAs by small interfering RNAs followed by wound healing and western blot assays was used to confirm their functions in a PDAC cell line. A total of 278 circRNAs were identified as differentially expressed in PDAC tissue. Of these, we found that hsa_circRNA_0007334 was significantly upregulated and may serve as a competing endogenous RNA to regulate matrix metallopeptidase 7 (MMP7) and collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1) by the competitive adsorption of hsa-miR-144-3p and hsa-miR-577 to enhance the expression and functions of MMP7 and COL1A1 in PDAC. In vitro experiments confirmed these results. The present study is the first to propose two regulatory pathways in PDAC: hsa_circRNA_0007334–hsa-miR-144-3p–MMP7 and hsa_circRNA_0007334–hsa-miR-577–COL1A1.
Brief Psychiatric Screening Questionnaire in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Lee Will , Williams David R. , Evans Andrew
Published: July 2019

Background. While numerous validated questionnaires measuring psychiatric symptoms in Parkinson’s disease (PD) are available, a quick multifaceted screening tool is lacking. Objective. To generate the Brief Psychiatric Questionnaire (BPQ) that quickly screens for depression, anxiety, and apathy and to evaluate its content validity against three reference scales. Methods. Forty-seven questions were drafted and measured against the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), State Trait Anxiety Inventory (Form Y2) (STAI-Y2), and Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES). Data were reduced by principal component analysis and linear regression. Content validity and repeatability were assessed in a second cohort. Results. Data from ninety-five patients were used for BPQ development. Variation explained by the final linear regression models was 52% for GDS (R2 = 0.521, F(2,94) = 49.97, p<0.0001), 65% for STAI-Y2 (R2 = 0.652, F(4,94) = 42.08, p<0.0001), and 14% for AES (R2 = 0.135, F(1,94) = 14.51, p<0.0001). From the initial pool, only five questions remained for further testing. BPQ questions correctly identified 88% in the second cohort of 33 patients scoring more than five on GDS and 91% who scored in the highest decile of STAI-Y2, but only 51% who scored in the highest decile of AES. Moderate to strong correlation (r = 0.464 − 0.733, p<0.004) between predicted scores based on BPQ questions and actual scores of three validated questionnaires was demonstrated. Good repeatability of BPQ questions was demonstrated by moderate to high intraclass correlation coefficients (0.47–0.772, p<0.01). Conclusions. BPQ questions were able to accurately identify patients at risk of depression and anxiety but not apathy. It is brief and multifaceted and can act as a preconsultation tool to prompt further psychiatric assessment.
Identification of Tilletia foetida, Ustilago tritici, and Urocystis tritici Based on Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhao Yaqiong , Qin Feng , Xu Fei , Ma Jinxing , Sun Zhenyu , Song Yuli , Zhao Longlian , Li Junhui , Wang Haiguang
Published: July 2019

Identifying plant pathogens for disease diagnosis and disease control strategy making is of great significance. In this study, based on near-infrared spectroscopy, a method for identifying three kinds of pathogens causing wheat smuts, including Tilletia foetida, Ustilago tritici, and Urocystis tritici, was investigated. Based on the acquired near-infrared spectral data of the teliospore samples of the three pathogens, pathogen identification models were built in different spectral regions using distinguished partial least squares (DPLS), backpropagation neural network (BPNN), and support vector machine (SVM). Satisfactory identification results were achieved using the DPLS, BPNN, and SVM models built in each of the 22 spectral regions. By contrast, the modeling effects of DPLS and SVM were better than those of BPNN. The modeling ratio of the training set to the testing set affected the identification results of the BPNN models more than those obtained using the DPLS and SVM models. In this study, a rapid, accurate, and nondestructive method was provided for plant pathogen identification, and some basis was provided for disease diagnosis, pathogen monitoring, and disease control. Moreover, some methodological references and supports were provided for identification of quarantine wheat smut fungi in plant quarantine.
Dynamic Characteristics of Magnetic Suspended Dual‐Rotor System by Riccati Transfer Matrix Method
Authors: Wang Dongxiong , Wang Nianxian , Chen Kuisheng , Ye Chun
Published: July 2019

The magnetic suspended dual‐rotor system (MSDS) can effectively increase the thrust weight ratio of aeroengines. However, the MSDS dynamic characteristics have rarely been investigated. In this research, a MSDS with the outer rotor supported by two active magnetic bearings (AMBs) is designed, and the PID control is employed. The Riccati transfer matrix method using complex variables is adopted to establish the MSDS dynamic model. Subsequently, the influences of AMBs’ control parameters on the MSDS dynamic characteristics are explored. According to the analysis, two rigid mode shapes remain unchanged with the variation of the relationship between their corresponding damped critical speeds (DCSs). Moreover, the rigid DCSs disappear with large derivative coefficient. Eventually, the validity of the dynamic model and the appearance of rigid DCSs are verified.
Availability of Extended-Release Naltrexone May Increase the Number of Opioid-Dependent Individuals in Treatment: Extension of a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Solli Kristin Klemmetsby , Kunoe Nikolaj , Latif Zill-E-Huma , Sharma-Haase Kamni , Opheim Arild , Krajci Peter , Gaulen Zhanna , Šaltytė Benth Jūratė , Tanum Lars
Published: July 2019

Background and objective: Opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) is highly available in Norway, but only 50% of opioid-dependent individuals are enrolled in such programs. This study was aimed at examining if availability of extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) could attract individuals who for different reasons were not enrolled in an OMT program. Methods: In a Norwegian clinical study, n = 117 opioid-dependent adults volunteered to receive XR-NTX in a 9-month period, as an extension of a previous randomized clinical trial. Results: Before study inclusion, 40.2% (n = 47) of the study participants were not enrolled in OMT while the remainder were recruited from OMT. Participants not enrolled in OMT displayed more ongoing severe addiction-related problems such as heroin use (p = 0.002), but displayed a higher retention in treatment in the 9-month extension study (p = 0.048 for log-rank test) than participants enrolled in OMT. Conclusion: Availability of XR-NTX attracted opioid-dependent individuals not previously enrolled in OMT. While OMT may be perceived as a burden with regard to daily intake and control measures, one-monthly injections with XR-NTX may be perceived favourable, offering more freedom to the patients, not having addictive properties, and potentially reducing heroin craving. We suggest that an introduction of XR-NTX in Europe may increase the number of opioid-dependent individuals in treatment.
Risk of Intracerebral Hemorrhage and Mortality After Convexity Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy
Authors: Calviere Lionel , Viguier Alain , Patsoura Sofia , Rousseau Vanessa , Albucher Jean-François , Planton Mélanie , Pariente Jérémie , Cognard Christophe , Olivot Jean-Marc , Bonneville Fabrice , Raposo Nicolas
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose—

Convexity subarachnoid hemorrhage (cSAH) is an increasingly recognized presentation of cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), usually revealed by transient symptoms, but data on its outcome are limited. We compared the risk of future intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH), cSAH, and death in patients with CAA after cSAH and after lobar ICH.

Methods—

Consecutive patients with probable CAA, based on the Boston criteria, presenting with cSAH (CAA-cSAH) or lobar ICH (CAA-ICH) were included. We obtained baseline clinical and magnetic resonance imaging data and follow-up information. Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to compare incidence rate for symptomatic ICH, symptomatic cSAH, and late-death (beyond 30 days) between patients with CAA-cSAH and CAA-ICH.

Results—

Among 105 patients (mean age, 76.7±7.5 years) enrolled, 44 participants presented with CAA-cSAH and 61 with CAA-ICH. The median follow-up was 22.2 months (interquartile range, 12.6–34.4). The symptomatic ICH rate (per person-year) was 10.5% (95% CI, 5.6–19.4) in patients with CAA-cSAH compared with 8.5% (95% CI, 4.4–16.4) in those with CAA-ICH (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.32–3.43). The annual incidence rates of symptomatic cSAH (9.9% versus 3.8%; adjusted hazard ratio, 1.77; 95% CI, 0.43–7.28) and death (9.5% versus 17.8%; adjusted hazard ratio, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.22–1.43) were not significantly different between patients with CAA-cSAH and those with CAA-ICH.

Conclusions—

Patients with CAA-related cSAH have a poor outcome, with similar high risk of future ICH and long-term mortality than CAA patients after lobar ICH. Our findings may have important prognostic implication and guide management of patients with cSAH in CAA.
Morphology and phylogeny reveal Stemphylium dianthi sp. nov. and new host records for the sexual morphs ofS. beticola, S. gracilariae, S. simmonsii and S. vesicariumfrom Italy and Russia
Authors: BRAHMANAGE RASHIKA S. , WANASINGHE DHANUSHKA N. , DAYARATHNE MONIKA C. , JEEWON RAJESH , YAN JIYE , BULGAKOV TIMUR S. , CAMPORESI ERIO , KAKUMYAN PATTANA , HYDE KEVIN D. , LI XINGHONG
Published: July 2019

In an investigation of related pleosporalean taxa collected from Italy and Russia, a novel species, Stemphylium dianthi and new host and geographical records ofS. beticola, S. gracilariae, S. simmonsii and S. vesicarium are reported. Stemphylium is a genus of filamentous ascomycetes comprising plant pathogens and saprobes in the family Pleosporaceae. Our new species, S. dianthi is a dematiaceous hyphomycete, which can be distinguished from other hyphomycetes as it forms phaeodictyospores based on the percurrent rejuvenation of its conidiophores, and apically swollen conidiogenous cells. The sexual morphs ofS. gracilariaeand S. vesicarium are new host records from Italy and Russia respectively. Stemphylium beticola from dead stem of Dianthus capitatus and S. simmonsii from Acer campestre are herein described from a natural host substrate for the first time. An updated phylogenetic tree for Stemphylium is constructed using multi-genes (ITS, gapdh and cmdA) to confirm the phylogenetic relationships of Stemphylium species presented in this study. This paper provides morphological descriptions, illustrations and molecular data for each taxon.
A revision of the Aiphanes parvifolia complex (Arecaceae)
Authors: BERNAL RODRIGO , BORCHSENIUS FINN , HOYOS-GÓMEZ SAÚL E. , MANRIQUE HÉCTOR FAVIO , SANÍN MARÍA JOSÉ
Published: July 2019

Recent field work and the study of new collections have revealed that the Andean palm Aiphanes parvifolia, as interpreted in the most recent monograph of the genus, actually included five species. Three of them, Aiphanes decipiens, Aiphanes gloria and Aiphanes tatama, whose specimens were previously considered as A. parvifolia, are described here as new, and another one, also formerly treated as A. parvifolia, was recently described as Aiphanes argos. Two additional species, not collected before, belong also to this complex and are described here as new: Aiphanes bio and Aiphanes cogollo. The true Aiphanes parvifolia is recircumscribed, and the current neotype is superseded. A taxonomic treatment of all the species in the group is presented, including detailed descriptions and illustrations, and a key to identify them. Six of the species are categorized as Critically Endangered and one as Endangered, based on IUCN criteria.
A new species of Sphaenorhynchus (Anura; Hylidae) from Brazil
Authors: TOLEDO LUÍS FELIPE , GARCIA PAULO C.A. , LINGNAU RODRIGO , HADDAD CÉLIO F.B.
Published: July 2019

A new species of Sphaenorhynchus, probably closely related to S. surdus, is described from the states of São Paulo, Paraná, and Santa Catarina in the southeast and south of Brazil. This species, Sphaenorhynchus caramaschii sp. nov., is an intermediate species in size within the genus and is characterized by the absence of external tympanum, by the snout from truncate to slightly mucronate in dorsal view and protruding in lateral view, by the presence of a dark line from the snout to the eye, and mainly by differences in the advertisement call (a long call with several notes). It is found in open areas, calling during the wet season of the year, generally, in the deepest area of permanent ponds. Illustrations of the adults, descriptions of the advertisement calls, and a map of geographic distribution of the species are provided. Also, we provide data on the distribution and natural history of S. surdus and describe its advertisement call.