bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluconazole‐resistant Candida parapsilosis strains with a Y132F substitution in the ERG11 gene causing invasive infections in a neonatal unit, South Africa
Authors: Magobo Rindidzani E. , Lockhart Shawn R. , Govender Nelesh P.
Published: March 2020

Introduction

The prevalence of azole resistance in C parapsilosis is very low in most parts of the world. However, South Africa has reported an exceptionally high prevalence of azole resistance in C parapsilosis strains isolated from candidaemia cases. We aimed to determine the possible molecular mechanisms of fluconazole resistance in C parapsilosis isolates obtained through surveillance at a large neonatal unit at a South African academic hospital.

Methods

We sequenced the ERG11 and MRR1 genes of C parapsilosis isolates recovered from cases of neonatal candidemia, followed by microsatellite genotyping. A total of 73 isolates with antifungal susceptibility results were analysed.

Results

Of these, 57 (78%) were resistant, 11 (15%) susceptible dose‐dependent and 5 (7%) susceptible. The most commonly identified amino acid substitution within the ERG11 gene was Y132F in 68% (39/57) of fluconazole‐resistant isolates and none in susceptible isolates. Three amino acid substitutions (R405K, G583R and A619V) and 1 nucleotide deletion at position 1331 were identified within MRR1 gene in 19 (26%) isolates. Microsatellite genotyping grouped isolates into four clusters (50 isolates). Cluster 1 accounted for 23% (17/73) of all cases, cluster 2 for 22% (16/73), cluster 3 for 14% (10/73) and cluster 4 for 10% (7/73). We found an association between cluster type and fluconazole resistance (P‐value = .004). Isolates harbouring the Y132F substitution were more likely to belong to a cluster than non‐Y132F isolates.

Conclusion

Fluconazole resistance in C parapsilosis strains from a single South African neonatal unit was associated with cluster type and predominantly driven by Y123F amino acid substitutions in the ERG11 gene.
The cyclic motor patterns in the human colon
Authors: Pervez Maham , Ratcliffe Elyanne , Parsons Sean P. , Chen Ji‐Hong , Huizinga Jan D.
Published: March 2020

Background

High‐resolution colonic manometry gives an unprecedented window into motor patterns of the human colon. Our objective was to characterize motor activities throughout the entire colon that possessed persistent rhythmicity and spanning at least 5 cm.

Methods

High‐resolution colonic manometry using an 84‐channel water‐perfused catheter was performed in 19 healthy volunteers. Rhythmic activity was assessed during baseline, proximal balloon distention, meal, and bisacodyl administration.

Key Results

Throughout the entire colon, a cyclic motor pattern occurred either in isolation or following a high‐amplitude propagating pressure wave (HAPW), consisting of clusters of pressure waves at a frequency centered on 11‐13 cycles/min, unrelated to breathing. The cluster duration was 1‐6 minutes; the pressure waves traveled for 8‐27 cm, lasting 5‐8 seconds. The clusters itself could be rhythmic at 0.5‐2 cpm. The propagation direction of the individual pressure waves was mixed with >50% occurring simultaneous. This high‐frequency cyclic motor pattern co‐existed with the well‐known low‐frequency cyclic motor pattern centered on 3‐4 cpm. In the rectum, the low‐frequency cyclic motor pattern dominated, propagating predominantly in retrograde direction. Proximal balloon distention, a meal and bisacodyl administration induced HAPWs followed by cyclic motor patterns.

Conclusions and Inferences

Within cyclic motor patterns, retrograde propagating, low‐frequency pressure waves dominate in the rectum, likely keeping the rectum empty; and mixed propagation, high‐frequency pressure waves dominate in the colon, likely promoting absorption and storage, hence contributing to continence. Propagation and frequency characteristics are likely determined by network properties of the interstitial cells of Cajal.
Active Recharge Burst and Tonic Spinal Cord Stimulation Engage Different Supraspinal Mechanisms: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study in Peripherally Injured Chronic Neuropathic Rats
Authors: Meuwissen Koen P.V. , van der Toorn Annette , Gu Jianwen Wendy , Zhang Tianhe C. , Dijkhuizen Rick M. , Joosten Elbert A.J.
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To assess the supraspinal working mechanisms of the burst spinal cord stimulation (SCS) mode, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in chronic neuropathic rats. We hypothesized that active recharge burst SCS would induce a more profound blood oxygenation level–dependent (BOLD) signal increase in areas associated with cognitive‐emotional aspects of pain, as compared to tonic SCS.

Methods

Sprague Dawley rats (n = 17) underwent a unilateral partial sciatic nerve ligation, which resulted in chronic neuropathic pain. Quadripolar SCS electrodes were epidurally positioned on top of the dorsal columns at Th13. Isoflurane‐anesthetized (1.5%) rats received either tonic SCS (n = 8) or burst SCS (n = 9) at 66% of motor threshold. BOLD fMRI was conducted before, during, and after SCS using a 9.4‐T horizontal bore scanner.

Results

Overall, both tonic and burst SCS induced a significant increase of BOLD signal levels in areas associated with the location and intensity of pain, and areas associated with cognitive‐emotional aspects of pain. Additionally, burst SCS significantly increased BOLD signal levels in the raphe nuclei, nucleus accumbens, and caudate putamen. Tonic SCS did not induce a significant increase in BOLD signal levels in these areas.

Conclusions

In conclusion, active recharge burst and tonic SCS have different effects on the intensity and localization of SCS‐induced activation responses in the brain. This work demonstrates that active recharge burst is another waveform that can engage brain areas associated with cognitive‐emotional aspects of pain as well as areas associated with location and intensity of pain. Previous studies showing similar engagement used only passive recharge burst.
QTL mapping of male sterility‐related traits in a photoperiod and temperature‐sensitive genic male sterile wheat line BS366
Authors: Yuan Shao‐hua , Bai Jian‐fang , Guo Hao‐yu , Duan Wen‐jing , Liu Zi‐han , Zhang Feng‐ting , Ma Jin‐xiu , Zhao Chang‐ping , Zhang Li‐ping
Published: March 2020

The photoperiod/temperature‐sensitive genic male sterile (P/TGMS) character is important for use of heterosis in hybrid wheat. In the present study, the fertility of 172 doubled haploid (DH) lines derived from the cross between a P/TGMS wheat line BS366 and a restorer wheat line Baiyu149 was investigated under both fertile and sterile environments during three cropping seasons. The phenotype was recorded based on the international seed setting rate. A total of 167 SSR and 1,278 SNP markers were used to construct a linkage map, with a total length of 3,748.94 cM and an average marker interval of 2.59 cM. Three QTLs were identified and designated asQF.bhw‐2DS, QF.bhw‐4BSandQF.bhw‐7Al,explaining 6.9%–12.8%, 19.7%–25.6% and 7.2%–8.8% of the phenotypic variances, respectively. These results lay a good basis for application of male sterility‐related molecular markers in improvement of two‐line hybrid wheat breeding system.
Neutrophilic panniculitis arising from hematogenous spread of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Young Trevor K. , Gutierrez Daniel , Meehan Shane A. , Pellett Madan Rebecca , Oza Vikash S.
Published: March 2020

Infectious panniculitis from hematogenous spread is uncommon and usually occurs in immunocompromised patients. Dissemination of gram‐positive organisms to the subcutaneous tissue is rare with only several reports of disseminated panniculitis caused by Streptococcal species. We report a case of an immunocompetent 2‐year‐old boy presenting with diffuse neutrophilic panniculitis arising from methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus septicemia. This case represents a highly atypical manifestation of severe MRSA infection and serves as a reminder to consider MRSA as a cause of disseminated neutrophilic panniculitis, particularly in high‐risk populations.
Necrosis Depth and Photodynamic Threshold Dose with Redaporfin‐PDT
Authors: Rocha Luis B. , Soares Helder T. , Mendes Maria Inês P. , Cabrita António , Schaberle Fábio A. , Arnaut Luís G.
Published: March 2020

Predicting the extent of necrosis in photodynamic therapy (PDT) is critical to ensure that the whole tumor is treated but vital structures, such as major blood vessels in the vicinity of the tumor, are spared. The models developed for clinical planning rely on empirical parameters that change with the nature of the photosensitizer and the target tissue. This work presents an in vivo study of the necrosis in the livers of rats due to PDT with a bacteriochlorin photosensitizer named redaporfin using both frontal illumination and interstitial illumination. Various doses of light at 750 nm were delivered 15 min postintravenous administration of redaporfin. Sharp boundaries between necrotic and healthy tissues were found. Frontal illumination allowed for the determination of the photodynamic threshold dose—1.5 × 1019 photons cm−3—which means that the regions of the tissues exposed to more than 11 mm of ROS evolved to necrosis. Interstitial illumination produced a necrotic radius of 0.7 cm for a light dose of 100 J cm−1 and a redaporfin dose of 0.75 mg kg−1. The experimental data obtained can be used to inform and improve clinical planning with frontal and interstitial illumination protocols.
Fronts in two‐phase porous media flow problems: The effects of hysteresis and dynamic capillarity
Authors: Mitra K. , Köppl T. , Pop I. S. , van Duijn C. J. , Helmig R.
Published: March 2020

In this work, we study the behavior of saturation fronts for two‐phase flow through a long homogeneous porous column . In particular, the model includes hysteresis and dynamic effects in the capillary pressure and hysteresis in the permeabilities. The analysis uses traveling wave approximation. Entropy solutions are derived for Riemann problems that are arising in this context. These solutions belong to a much broader class compared to the standard Oleinik solutions, where hysteresis and dynamic effects are neglected. The relevant cases are examined and the corresponding solutions are categorized. They include nonmonotone profiles, multiple shocks, and self‐developing stable saturation plateaus. Numerical results are presented that illustrate the mathematical analysis. Finally, we discuss the implication of our findings in the context of available experimental results.
Low Rho activity in hepatocytes prevents apical from basolateral cargo separation during trans‐Golgi network to surface transport
Authors: Lázaro‐Diéguez Francisco , Müsch Anne
Published: March 2020

Hepatocytes, the main epithelial cells of the liver, organize their polarized membrane domains differently from ductal epithelia. They also differ in their biosynthetic delivery of single‐membrane‐spanning and glycophosphatidylinositol‐anchored proteins to the apical domain. While ductal epithelia target apical proteins to varying degrees from the trans‐Golgi network (TGN) to the apical surface directly, hepatocytes target them first to the basolateral domain, from where they undergo basolateral‐to‐apical transcytosis. How TGN‐to‐surface transport differs in both scenarios is unknown. Here, we report that the basolateral detour of a hepatocyte apical protein is due, in part, to low RhoA activity at the TGN, which prevents its segregation from basolateral transport carriers. Activating Rho in hepatocytic cells, which switches their polarity from hepatocytic to ductal, also led to apical‐basolateral cargo segregation at the TGN as is typical for ductal cells, affirming a central role for Rho‐signaling in different aspects of the hepatocytic polarity phenotype. Nevertheless, Rho‐induced cargo segregation was not sufficient to target the apical protein directly; thus, failure to recruit apical targeting machinery also contributes to its indirect itinerary.
RELEASE OF α-TOCOPHEROL FROM CHITOSAN/PECTIN POLYELECTROLYTE COMPLEX FILM INTO FATTY FOOD SIMULANT FOR THE DESIGN OF ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVE FOOD PACKAGE
Authors: Hapsari Aulia Ratri , Roto Roto , Siswanta Dwi
Published: March 2020

Lipid oxidation is one of the leading causes of the decline in food product quality. However, it might be overcome with active antioxidant packaging technologies, which is based on the incorporation of antioxidants to the packaging material. In this study, the polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) from chitosan (CS) and pectin (PE) was used as a packaging material and a-tocopherol (a-TOH) was used as an antioxidant to develop an antioxidant active packaging with the addition of Tween-80 to facilitate the incorporation of hydrophobic a-TOH into hydrophilic PEC CS/PE solution. This research showed that the composition of PEC chitosan/pectin, the concentration of Tween-80, and the concentration of a-TOH affected the releasing profile of a-TOH. The hydrophilicity of film increased with the increase of PE amount in PEC and the concentration of Tween–80. This improvement in the hydrophilicity also led to an increase in the release of a-TOH. The highest accumulative release of a-TOH was achieved when using a film with the highest initial concentration of incorporated a-TOH (C3), which was up to 98.49%. The result of the performed DPPH assay showed that the complex films exhibited high antioxidant activity up to 90.60%. The releasing profile of all films exhibited an initial burst effect followed by sustain release over 10 d. Therefore, this film can be promising as an antioxidant active package.
A NUMERICAL STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF MAGNETIC HEATING TO CRUDE OIL-NANOFLUID FLOW FOR ENHANCED OIL RECOVERY
Authors: Tan P. H. , Fong K. S. , Mohd Yassin A. Y. , Latheef M.
Published: March 2020

Magnetic heating of crude oil mixed with nanoparticle for heat transfer mechanism enhancement has received much attention in enhanced oil recovery (EOR). In the present work, the heat transfer of Fe3O4, Al2O3, CuO, Cu nanoparticles mixed in crude oil is theoretically investigated. The mathematical model of magnetic field heating in reservoir is represented by the channel flow of crude oil-nanofluid subjected to a longitudinal spatially varying magnetic field. The viscous incompressible flow is bounded by nonisothermal walls. The coupled nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) are solved numerically using an unconditionally stable time integration and finite element method. The numerical results are validated against data available in literature. The physical aspects of the crude oil-nanofluid flow and heat transfer are discussed in terms of several pertinent parameters such as solid nano fraction, skin friction, magnetic, Hartmann and Nusselt numbers. It is found that the enhancement of heat transfer increases with the magnetic number and solid nano fraction while decreases with the increase in Hartmann number. It is shown that, the addition of nanoparticle and increment of magnetic number is effective in the localised heating. In addition, the heat transfer of Fe3O4, Al2O3, CuO, Cu nanoparticles in crude oil mixed are investigated and assessed against each other. It is observed that, the heating mechanism would not be as effective for high electrically conducting nanoparticles. The results also indicate that nanoparticle with high thermal conductivity and low electrical conductivity is preferable in obtaining susceptible thermal heating for the EOR.
Imagery as a Form of Learning and a Mean of Acquiring New Skills and Experience
Authors: Kavková Veronika
Published: March 2020

The paper deals with various forms of the use of primary human abilities in the area of learning – imagery. First, the concept of imagery, which is still confused with mere visualization, is defined. We try to clear up this simplification. The term learning is understood here primarily as to acquire new habits, experience and develop skills. The article tries to provide a cross-sectional overview of areas where imagery can serve to improve or consolidate some of the skills or abilities. For this reason, the study deals with areas of therapy, coaching, sports, music and education. In each of these areas (and undoubtedly in many others), imagery can be a useful tool. It describes how to use imagery effectively in dealing with fear, learning new movement patterns, increasing self-confidence, and others. Last but not least, the paper deals with what is the basic premise of imagery, how it should look like to be as effective as possible, and how to use it in different areas.
Ethics and Plagiarism. Opinions of First-Year Students at University in the Czech Republic
Authors: Smolík Josef , Herbočková Lucie , Nesiba Jiří
Published: March 2020

The text deals with the analysis of the questionnaire survey among firstyear students at the Faculty of Regional Development and International Studies of Mendel University, which focused on the issue of plagiarism. Plagiarism is considered to be dishonest behavior, which is mostly done by the students in the academic sphere, however, it can affect all academics. Principles, when someone else’s academic outputs are “taken over” without proper quotations, are generally considered unacceptable. Nevertheless, such excesses still occur. It is caused by expanding information flows, databases providing a large number of academic texts, as well as companies specialized in writing university theses. The aim of this text is, therefore, to discuss the issue of plagiarism and to present the empirical survey carried out among students at the Faculty of Regional Development and International Studies. The data were collected in May 2018 using a printed questionnaire. The questionnaire primarily focused on the awareness of plagiarism and the reasons for plagiarism.
Large Eddy Simulation of Heat Transfer Within a Multi-Perforation Synthetic Jets Configuration
Authors: Esnault Soizic , Duchaine Florent , Gicquel Laurent , Moreau Stéphane
Published: March 2020

Synthetic jets are produced by devices that enable a suction phase followed by an ejection phase. The resulting mean mass budget is hence null and no addition of mass in the system is required. These particular jets have especially been considered for some years for flow control applications. They also display features that can become of interest to enhance heat exchanges, for example, for wall cooling issues. Synthetic jets can be generated through different mechanisms, such as acoustics by making use of a Helmholtz resonator or through the motion of a piston as in an experience mounted at Institut Pprime in France. The objective of this specific experiment is to understand how synthetic jets can enhance heat transfer in a multi-perforated configuration. As a complement to this experimental setup, large-eddy simulations are produced and analyzed in the present document to investigate the flow behavior as well as the impact of the synthetic jets on wall heat transfer. The experimental system considered here consists in a perforated heated plate, each perforation being above a cavity where a piston is used to control the synthetic jets. Placed in a wind tunnel test section, the device can be studied with a grazing flow and multiple operating points are available. The one considered here implies a grazing flow velocity of 12.8 m s−1, corresponding to a Mach number around 0.04, and a piston displacement of 22 mm peak-to-peak at a frequency of 12.8 Hz. These two latter parameters lead to a jet Reynolds number of about 830. A good agreement is found between numerical results and experimental data. The simulations are then used to provide a detailed understanding of the flow. Two main behaviors are found, depending on the considered mid-period. During the ejection phase, the flow transitions to turbulence and the formation of characteristic structures are observed; the plate is efficiently cooled. During the suction phase, the main flow is stabilized; the heat enhancement is particularly efficient in the hole wakes but not between them, leading to a heterogeneous temperature field.
Experimental Investigation of Sweeping Jet Film Cooling in a Transonic Turbine Cascade
Authors: Hossain Mohammad A. , Asar Munevver E. , Gregory James W. , Bons Jeffrey P.
Published: March 2020

The sweeping jet (SJ) film cooling hole has shown promising cooling performance compared to the standard shaped hole in low-speed conditions. The present work demonstrates the first attempt of SJ film cooling at an engine relevant Mach number. An experimental investigation was conducted to study the SJ film cooling on a nozzle guide vane suction surface. A well-established additive manufacturing technique commonly known as stereolithography (SLA) was utilized to design a transonic, engine representative vane geometry in which a row of SJ holes was used on the vane suction surface. Experiments were performed in a linear transonic cascade at an exit Mach number of 0.8 and blowing ratios of BR = 0.25–2.23. The measurement of heat transfer was conducted with the transient IR method, and the convective heat transfer coefficient (HTC) and adiabatic film cooling effectiveness were estimated using a dual linear regression technique (DLRT). Aerodynamic loss measurements were also performed with a total pressure Kiel probe at 0.25Cax downstream of the exit plane of the vane cascade. Experiments were also conducted for a baseline-shaped hole (777-hole) for a direct comparison. Results showed that the SJ hole has a wider coolant spreading in the lateral direction near the hole exit due to its sweeping motion that improves the overall cooling performance particularly at high blowing ratios (BR > 1). Aerodynamic loss measurement suggested that the SJ hole has a comparable total pressure loss to the 777-shaped hole.
Antimicrobial Activity of the Quinoline Derivative HT61 against Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms
Authors: Frapwell C. J. , Skipp P. J. , Howlin R. P. , Angus E. M. , Hu Y. , Coates A. R. M. , Allan R. N. , Webb J. S.
Published: March 2020

Staphylococcus aureusbiofilms are a significant problem in health care settings, partly due to the presence of a nondividing, antibiotic-tolerant subpopulation. Here we evaluated treatment ofS. aureusUAMS-1 biofilms with HT61, a quinoline derivative shown to be effective against nondividingStaphylococcusspp. HT61 was effective at reducing biofilm viability and was associated with increased expression of cell wall stress and division proteins, confirming its potential as a treatment forS. aureusbiofilm infections.
Culture-Confirmed Invasive Meningococcal Disease in Canada, 2010 to 2014: Characterization of Serogroup BNeisseria meningitidisStrains and Their Predicted Coverage by the 4CMenB Vaccine
Authors: Tsang Raymond S. W. , Law Dennis K. S. , De Paola Rosita , Giuliani Maria , Stella Maria , Zhou Jianwei , Deng Saul , Boccadifuoco Giuseppe , Giuliani Marzia Monica , Serino Laura
Published: March 2020

Laboratory surveillance of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is important to our understanding of the evolving nature of theNeisseria meningitidisstrain types causing the disease and the potential coverage of disease strains by the newly developed vaccines. This study examined the molecular epidemiology of culture-confirmed IMD cases in Canada by examining the strain types and the potential coverage of a newly licensed 4CMenB vaccine on Canadian serogroup BN. meningitidisstrains. The strain types identified in different parts of Canada appeared to be unique as well as their predicted coverage by the 4CMenB vaccine. These data were compared to data obtained from previous studies done in Canada and elsewhere globally. For effective control of IMD, laboratory surveillance of this type was found to be essential and useful to understand the dynamic nature of this disease.
Down-regulation of NTSR3 inhibits cell growth and metastasis, as well as the PI3K–AKT and MAPK signaling pathways in colorectal cancer
Authors: Liu Aihua , Zuo Zhongfu , Liu Linlin , Liu Lihua
Published: March 2020

Colorectal cancer is a common malignancy. NTS receptor 3 (NTSR3) is known to play an important role in several cancers. This study examined the effects of NTSR3 on cell growth and metastasis in colorectal cancer. Western blot analysis, real-time PCR, immunofluorescence staining, MTT, cell cycle assay, cell apoptosis assay, Hoechst staining, caspase-3 and caspase-9 activity assays, cell adhesion assay, wound healing assay, and a Transwell assay were used in this study. We found that NTSR3 was expressed at relatively high levels in the colorectal cancer cell lines SW620 and SW480. NTSR3 knockdown suppressed cell growth and promoted cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, the protein expression levels of cyclinD1, cyclinE1, CDK4, and p-RB were reduced, and the levels of p-P27, P15, P21, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-9 protein were increased. Cell invasiveness and cell migration were reduced with knockdown of NTSR3. In addition, our rescue experiments demonstrated that overexpression of the siRNA-resistant alleles of NTSR3 abrogated the NTSR3-siRNA-mediated effects on cell function. Further, down-regulation of NTSR3 inactivated the PI3K–AKT and MAPK signaling pathways. Collectively, these data demonstrate that knockdown of NTSR3 inhibits cell growth and metastasis, as well as the PI3K–AKT and MAPK signaling pathways in colorectal cancer. Thus, our results indicate that NTSR3 is a potential therapeutic target for treating colorectal cancer.
Nitrogen and phosphorus control carbon sequestration in agricultural ecosystems: modelling carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus balances at the Breton Plots with ecosys under historical and future climates
Authors: Grant R.F. , Dyck M. , Puurveen D.
Published: March 2020

Perennial legumes in crop rotations increase soil C sequestration from greater productivity with N2 fixation. Here, we corroborated increases in soil organic carbon (SOC) and harvests modelled in 5 yr wheat–oats–barley–alfalfa/brome–alfalfa/brome (5Y) vs. 2 yr wheat–fallow (WF) rotations with those measured from 1929 to 2018. Harvest and SOC gains of 100–150 g C m−2 yr−1 and 15–25 g C m−2 yr−1 were modelled and measured in 5Y vs. WF rotations with different fertilizer and manure amendments. Modelled gains were closely related to annualized rates of N2 fixation by alfalfa of 8–10 g N m−2 yr−1. However, N2 fixation also drove increases in modelled N2O emissions of ca. 0.06 g N m−2 yr−1, which partially offset gains in SOC. Gains in harvest, SOC, and N2O emissions of 60–90 g C m−2 yr−1, 15 g C m−2 yr−1, and 0.05 g N m−2 yr−1 were modelled and measured in both rotations with amendments of N + P relative to unamended treatments. Harvest and SOC gains were smaller, and leaching and N2O losses larger, with amendments of N without P. After 100 yr of RCP 8.5 climate change, harvests in WF changed little from those in baseline runs, whereas those in 5Y rose with N + P because of increased N2 fixation. SOC declined in WF with all amendments and could only be raised in 5Y with N + P amendments. These model findings indicated the importance of N2 fixation and P amendments in determining responses of agroecosystem productivity and C sequestration to climate change.
AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT BONDS’ NOMINAL YIELDS: A KEYNESIAN PERSPECTIVE
Authors: AKRAM TANWEER , DAS ANUPAM
Published: March 2020

This paper empirically models the dynamics of Australian government bonds’ nominal yields using the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach. Keynes held that the central bank exerts a decisive influence on government bond yields because the central bank’s policy rate and other monetary policy actions determine the short-term interest rate, which in turn affects long-term government bonds’ nominal yields. The estimated models show that the short-term interest rate is the main driver of Australian government bonds’ nominal yields. These results imply that Keynes’s conjecture applies in the case of Australian government bonds’ nominal yields. Furthermore, the effect of the budget balance ratio on government bond yields is small though statistically significant. There is no statistically discernable effect of the debt ratio on government bond yields.
Factors related to braille reading acquisition among aging braille learners
Authors: Martiniello Natalie
Published: March 2020

The prevalence of older adults with acquired vision loss is expected to double by 2050 as life expectancy continues to increase, and reading difficulties remain the most common reason for referral to vision rehabilitation services. Refreshable braille technologies provide expanded access to information in braille, and may be beneficial to older adults who experience age-related declines in tactile acuity. Despite this, very little is known about the impact of aging on braille reading, how reading performance differs between hardcopy and electronic refreshable braille, or whether such technologies would improve training outcomes for older adults who pursue braille training. The goal of this research is to answer fundamental questions about aging on braille reading performance through both traditional and technological methods and to explore whether use of refreshable braille technologies within training interventions would help to better meet the unique needs of a quickly aging population.
Impact of Family-Centered Early Intervention in Infants with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Single-Subject Design
Authors: Park Ho Il , Park Hae Yean , Yoo Eunyoung , Han Areum
Published: March 2020

Objective. Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social skills, and behavior and can present in early childhood. The present study is aimed at investigating the effects of family-centered early intervention on the quality of social interaction and social interaction skills in infants with suspected autism spectrum disorder using a single-subject design. Method. As a single-subject design study, evaluations were conducted at baseline phase A, intervention phase B, baseline phase A′, and follow-up phase. The family-centered early intervention program was implemented during the intervention phase. Family-centered early intervention programs included home environmental modification, play video recording and training, task and feedback, related information training, and question and answer. The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, Revised, with Follow-Up and Evaluation of Social Interaction was used for evaluation. Result. Three participants completed the study. After applying the family-centered early intervention program, the quality of social interaction and social interaction skills of all participants improved. In addition, the risk of autism spectrum disorder in all participants was reduced. Conclusion. Family-centered early intervention was confirmed to have a positive effect on the improvement of social interaction skills in infants with suspected autism spectrum disorder.
Secure Lightweight IoT Integrated RFID Mobile Healthcare System
Authors: Naresh Vankamamidi S. , Reddi Sivaranjani , Murthy Nistala V. E. S.
Published: March 2020

Patient safety is a global public health concern nowadays, especially in elderly people who need physiological health monitoring systems integrated with a technology which will help to oversee and manage the medical needs. In this direction, we propose a lightweight effective healthcare monitoring system designed by using the Internet of Things (IoT) and Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags. In this technique, we use dual-band RFID protocols which are the one working at a high frequency of 13.56 MHz and useful to figure out the individuals, and 2.45 GHz microwave bands are used to monitor corporal information. Sensors are used to monitor and collect patient physiological data; RFID tag is used to recognize the patient. This IoT-based RFID healthcare monitoring system provides acquisition of physiological information of elderly people and patients in hospital. Further, it is aiming to secure patient’s health recordings using hyper elliptic curve- (HEC-) based signcryption algorithm while allowing the doctor to access patient health information. Privacy is provided to variable length patient medical records using different genus curves, and the evaluation shows that the proposed algorithm is optimal with respect to healthcare.
Association of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors (PPARs) with Diabetic Retinopathy in Human and Animal Models: Analysis of the Literature and Genome Browsers
Authors: Tajnšek Špela , Petrovič Danijel , Globočnik Petrovič Mojca , Kunej Tanja
Published: March 2020

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a condition that develops after long-lasting and poorly handled diabetes and is presently the main reason for blindness among elderly and youth. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors that are involved in carbohydrate and fatty-acid metabolism and have also been associated with DR. Three PPAR isoforms are known: PPARG, PPARA, and PPARD. In the present study, we retrieved articles reporting associations between PPARs and DR from PubMed database and compiled the data in two catalogues, for human and animal models. Extracted data was then complemented with additional relevant genomic information. Seven retrieved articles reported testing an association between PPARs with DR in human. Four of them concluded association of PPARG and PPARA with DR in European and Asian populations, having a protective role on DR development. One study reported pathogenic role of PPARG, while two articles reported no association between PPARG and DR among Indian and Chinese populations. Six retrieved articles reported testing of involvement of PPARG and PPARA in DR in animal models, including mouse and rat. The review includes case-control studies, meta-analysis, expression studies, animal models, and cell line studies. Despite a large number of documented sequence variants of the PPAR genes available in genome browsers, researchers usually focus on a small set of previously reported variants. Data extraction from Ensembl genome browser revealed several sequence variants with predicted deleterious effect on protein function which present candidates for further experimental validation. Results of the present analysis will enable more holistic approach for understanding of PPARs in DR development. Additionally, developed catalogues present a baseline for standardized reporting of PPAR-phenotype association in upcoming studies.
Predictors of Premature Rupture of Membranes among Pregnant Women in Rural Uganda: A Cross-Sectional Study at a Tertiary Teaching Hospital
Authors: Byonanuwe Simon , Nzabandora Emmanuel , Nyongozi Baltazar , Pius Theophilus , Ayebare David Santson , Atuheire Collins , Mugizi Wilson , Nduwimana Martin , Okello Maxwell , Fajardo Yarine , Ssebuufu Robinson
Published: March 2020

Background. Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is a common condition in developed and developing countries and poses a serious threat to the maternal and fetal well-being if not properly managed. This study delineated the prevalence and predictors of PROM in the western part of Uganda so as to guide specific preventive measures. Methods. A cross-sectional study design was conducted in the months of September 2019 to November 2019. A total of 334 pregnant women above 28 weeks of gestation admitted at the maternity ward of KIU-TH were consecutively enrolled. Interviewer-administered questionnaires were used to obtain the data. Descriptive statistics followed by binary logistic regression were conducted. All data analyses were conducted using STATA 14.2. Results. Of the 334 pregnant women enrolled, the prevalence of PROM was found to be 13.8%. The significant independent predictors associated with lower odds of PROM were no history of urinary tract infection (UTI) in the month preceding enrollment into the study (aOR=0.5, 95% CI: 0.22-0.69, p=0.038) and gestational age of 37 weeks or more (aOR=0.3, 95% CI: 0.14-0.71, p=0.01) while history of 3 or more abortions (aOR=13.1, 95% CI: 1.12-153.62, p=0.05) was associated with higher likelihood of PROM. Conclusions. Majorly urinary tract infections, low gestational age, and abortions influence premature rupture of membranes among women. There is a great need for continuous screening and prompt treatment of pregnant women for UTI especially those with history of 3 or more abortions at less than 34 weeks of gestation.
Simultaneous Determination of 13 Constituents of Radix Polygoni Multiflori in Rat Plasma and Its Application in a Pharmacokinetic Study
Authors: Cheng Wenhao , Li Yinghui , Yang Wei , Wu Siyang , Wei Mengmeng , Gao Yang , Kang Chen , Zhang Shuofeng , Li Yingfei
Published: March 2020

Radix Polygoni Multiflori (RPM) has been widely used to treat various diseases in Asian countries for many centuries. Although, stilbenes and anthraquinones, two major components of RPM, show various bioactive effects, it has been speculated that the idiosyncratic hepatotoxicity induced by RPM may be related to these constituents. However, information on the pharmacokinetics of stilbenes and anthraquinones at a subtoxic dose of RPM is limited. A simple and sensitive UPLC-MS/MS bioanalytical method for the simultaneous determination of 13 ingredients of RPM, including chrysophanol, emodin, aloe-emodin, rhein, physcion, questin, citreorosein, questinol, 2,3,5,4′-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-D-glucoside, torachrysone-8-O-glucoside, chrysophanol-8-O-β-D-glucoside, emodin-8-O-β-D-glucoside, and physcion-8-O-β-D-glucoside, in rat plasma was established. Acetonitrile was employed to precipitate the plasma with appropriate sensitivity and acceptable matrix effects. Chromatographic separation was performed using a waters HSS C18 column with a gradient elution using water and acetonitrile both containing 0.025% formic acid within a run time of 9 min. The constituents were detected in negative ionization mode using multiple reaction monitoring. The method was fully validated in terms of selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, recovery, matrix effects, and stability. The lower limit of quantitation of the analytes was 0.1–1 ng/mL. The intrabatch and interbatch accuracies were 87.1–109%, and the precision was within the acceptable limits. The method was applied to a pharmacokinetic study after oral administration of RPM extract to rats at a subtoxic dose of 36 g/kg.
Modeling and Prediction of Momentum Wheel Speed Data
Authors: Li Jichao , Wang Xiaxia , Chen Chaobo , Gao Song
Published: March 2020

To solve the problems of data loss and unequal interval of momentum wheel (MW) speed during a satellite stable operation, this paper presents a multidimensional AR model. A Lagrange interpolation method is used to convert measurements to equal interval data, and the FFT algorithm is adopted to calculate the period of MW speed variation. The long data sequence is converted into multidimensional time series, based on the equal interval data and the period. A multidimensional AR model is established, and the least square method is used to estimate the model parameters. The future data trend is predicted by the proposed model. Simulation results show that the prediction algorithm can achieve the across cycle prediction of the MW speed data.
Giant Pericardial Lipoma Inducing Cardiac Tamponade and New Onset Atrial Flutter
Authors: Kerndt Connor Charles , Balinski Alexander Michael , Papukhyan Hayk Vahe
Published: March 2020

Although pericardial lipomas are both rare and benign, rapid or excessive growth can induce potentially fatal conditions such as pericarditis, arrhythmia, and cardiac tamponade. This case illustrates an example where a 65-year-old with atypical chest tightness unveiled a 10×15 cm anterior pericardial mass with circumferential effusion and progressive deterioration to cardiac tamponade. Initial transthoracic echocardiogram imaging was technically difficult in this patient due to habitus and body mass, which failed to illustrate underlying effusion. Recurrent bouts of refractory supraventricular tachycardia prompted further investigation of this patient’s presentation with transesophageal echocardiogram, which showed evidence of an echogenic mass with cardiac tamponade. An urgent pericardial window and pericardial lipectomy immediately relieved this hemodynamically compromising condition. Subsequent atrial flutter resulted with the removal of the anterior fat pad during surgery, complicating recovery.
Bearing Fault Signal Analysis Based on an Adaptive Multiscale Combined Morphological Filter
Authors: Lv Chun , Zhang Peilin , Wu Dinghai , Li Bing , Zhang Yunqiang
Published: March 2020

Bearing fault signal analysis is an important means of bearing fault diagnosis. To effectively eliminate noise in a fault signal, an adaptive multiscale combined morphological filter is proposed based on the theory of mathematical morphology. Both simulation and experimental results show that the adaptive multiscale combined morphological filter can remove noise more thoroughly and retain details of the fault signal better than the dual-tree complex wavelet filter, traditional morphological filter, adaptive singular value decomposition method (ASVD), and improved switching Kalman filter (ISKF). The adaptive multiscale combined morphological filter considers both positive and negative impulses in the signal; therefore, it has strong adaptability to complex noise in the environment, making it an effective new method for bearing fault diagnosis.
Lipopolysaccharide Inhibits Alpha Epithelial Sodium Channel Expression via MiR‐124‐5p in Alveolar Type 2  Epithelial Cells
Authors: Ding Yan , Cui Yong , Zhou Zhiyu , Hou Yapeng , Pang Xining , Nie Hongguang
Published: March 2020

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been a potential strategy in the pretreatment of pulmonary diseases, while the mechanisms of MSCs‐conditioned medium (MSCs‐CM) involved with microRNAs on the regulation of lung ion transport are seldom reported. We investigated the role of miR‐124‐5p in lipopolysaccharide‐involved epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) dysfunction and explored the potential target of miR‐124‐5p. We observed the lower expression of miR‐124‐5p after the administration of MSCs‐CM, and the overexpression or inhibition of miR‐124‐5p regulated epithelial sodium channel α‐subunit (α‐ENaC) expression at protein levels in mouse alveolar type 2 epithelial (AT2) cells. We confirmed that α‐ENaC is one of the target genes of miR‐124‐5p through dual luciferase assay and Ussing chamber assay revealed that miR‐124‐5p inhibited amiloride‐sensitive currents associated with ENaC activity in intact H441 monolayers. Our results demonstrate that miR‐124‐5p can decrease the expression and function of α‐ENaC in alveolar epithelial cells by targeting the 3′‐UTR. The involvement of MSCs‐CM in lipopolysaccharide‐induced acute lung injury cell model could be related to the downregulation of miR‐124‐5p on α‐ENaC, which may provide a new target for the treatment of acute lung injury.
Fully Automated Bone Age Assessment on Large-Scale Hand X-Ray Dataset
Authors: Pan Xiaoying , Zhao Yizhe , Chen Hao , Wei De , Zhao Chen , Wei Zhi
Published: March 2020

Bone age assessment (BAA) is an essential topic in the clinical practice of evaluating the biological maturity of children. Because the manual method is time-consuming and prone to observer variability, it is attractive to develop computer-aided and automated methods for BAA. In this paper, we present a fully automatic BAA method. To eliminate noise in a raw X-ray image, we start with using U-Net to precisely segment hand mask image from a raw X-ray image. Even though U-Net can perform the segmentation with high precision, it needs a bigger annotated dataset. To alleviate the annotation burden, we propose to use deep active learning (AL) to select unlabeled data samples with sufficient information intentionally. These samples are given to Oracle for annotation. After that, they are then used for subsequential training. In the beginning, only 300 data are manually annotated and then the improved U-Net within the AL framework can robustly segment all the 12611 images in RSNA dataset. The AL segmentation model achieved a Dice score at 0.95 in the annotated testing set. To optimize the learning process, we employ six off-the-shell deep Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) with pretrained weights on ImageNet. We use them to extract features of preprocessed hand images with a transfer learning technique. In the end, a variety of ensemble regression algorithms are applied to perform BAA. Besides, we choose a specific CNN to extract features and explain why we select that CNN. Experimental results show that the proposed approach achieved discrepancy between manual and predicted bone age of about 6.96 and 7.35 months for male and female cohorts, respectively, on the RSNA dataset. These accuracies are comparable to state-of-the-art performance.
Primates Can Be a Rallying Symbol to Promote Tropical Forest Restoration
Authors: Chapman Colin A. , Bicca-Marques Julio Cesar , Dunham Amy E. , Fan Pengfei , Fashing Peter J. , Gogarten Jan F. , Guo Songtao , Huffman Michael A. , Kalbitzer Urs , Li Baoguo , Ma Changyong , Matsuda Ikki , Omeja Patrick A. , Sarkar Dipto , Sengupta Raja , Serio-Silva Juan Carlos , Tsuji Yamato , Stenseth Nils C.
Published: March 2020

With 60% of all primate species now threatened with extinction and many species only persisting in small populations in forest fragments, conservation action is urgently needed. But what type of action? Here we argue that restoration of primate habitat will be an essential component of strategies aimed at conserving primates and preventing the extinctions that may occur before the end of the century and propose that primates can act as flagship species for restoration efforts. To do this we gathered a team of academics from around the world with experience in restoration so that we could provide examples of why primate restoration ecology is needed, outline how primates can act as flagship species for restoration efforts of tropical forest, review what little is known about how primate populations respond to restoration efforts, and make specific recommendations of the next steps needed to make restoration of primate populations successful. We set four priorities: (1) academics must effectively communicate both the value of primates and the need for restoration; (2) more research is needed on how primates contribute to forest restoration; (3) more effort must be put into Masters and PhD level training for tropical country nationals; and finally (4) more emphasis is needed to monitor the responses of regenerating forest and primate populations where restoration efforts are initiated. We are optimistic that populations of many threatened species can recover, and extinctions can be prevented, but only if concerted large-scale efforts are made soon and if these efforts include primate habitat restoration.
Elevated Serum Tryptase in Non-Anaphylaxis Cases: A Concise Review
Authors: Lee Adrian Y.S.
Published: March 2020

One of the most important blood tests in the field of allergy, mast cell tryptase has numerous diagnostic uses, particularly for anaphylactic reactions and for the diagnosis of mastocytosis. However, there are numerous other non-anaphylactic conditions where clinicians may see elevated serum tryptase (hypertryptasemia) and the practicing clinician ought to be aware of these important differential diagnoses. Such conditions include systemic mastocytosis, hematological malignancies, and chronic kidney disease. This article provides a comprehensive, updated summary on the variety of non-anaphylactic conditions where hypertryptasemia may be seen.