bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Limited performance of MALDI‐TOF for identification of fish Aeromonas isolates at species level
Authors: Pérez‐Sancho M , Cerdá I , Fernández‐Bravo A , Domínguez L , Figueras M J , Fernández‐Garayzábal J F , Vela A I
Published: August 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of the MALDI‐TOF MS to identify 151 isolates of Aeromonas obtained mostly from diseased fish. MALDI‐TOF MS correctly identified all isolates to the genus level but important differences in the percentage of isolates correctly identified depending on the species were observed. Considering exclusively the first identification option, Aeromonas bestiarum, Aeromonas hydrophila, Aeromonas salmonicida, Aeromonas veronii and Aeromonas sobria were the best identified with results >95%. However, considering the first and second identification options, the only species that showed values >90% was A. hydrophila. Overall, when the database was supplemented with 14 new spectra, the number of accurate identifications increased (41% vs. 55%) and the number of inconclusive identifications decreased (45% vs. 29%), but great differences in the success of species‐level identifications were found. Species‐distinctive mass peaks were identified only for A. hydrophila and A. bestiarum (5003 and 7360 m/z in 95.5% and 94.1% of their isolates, respectively). This work demonstrates the utility of MALDI‐TOF MS for Aeromonas identification to the genus level, but there is no consistency for the accurate identification of some of the most prevalent species implicated in fish disease.
Fracture resistance and survival of implant‐supported, zirconia‐based hybrid‐abutment crowns: Influence of aging and crown structure
Authors: Elshiyab Shareen H. , Nawafleh Noor , Walsh Laurence , George Roy
Published: August 2018

Aim

The aim of the present study was to investigate fracture resistance of implant‐supported zirconia‐based crowns (monolayer vs bilayer) cemented to hybrid abutments.

Methods

Monolayer and bilayer zirconia crowns were constructed and cemented to zirconia hybrid abutments. Crowns were divided into two subgroups: (a) untreated control group; and (b) experimental group, which underwent thermal‐cycling mechanical loading in a chewing simulator. Up to 1.2 million stress cycles with simultaneous thermocycling (5 and 55°C) were applied. Samples were finally subjected to static load to fracture. Data were analyzed using one‐way analysis of variance and t test. Fractured surfaces were observed using scanning electron microscopy.

Results

Monolayer zirconia crowns had a 100% survival rate upon completion of the thermal mechanical loading, whereas bilayer zirconia crowns had a 50% survival rate. The fracture load of monolayer zirconia crowns was significantly higher than that of bilayer crowns. Moreover, the fracture load was significantly reduced in monolayer zirconia crowns after aging. Monolayer zirconia crowns showed bulk fracture within the monolayer, while bilayer crowns exhibited cohesive fracture within the veneering porcelain only.

Conclusions

Monolayer implant‐supported hybrid‐abutment crowns exhibit significantly higher fracture resistance compared to bilayer crowns, making them better suited to handle higher masticatory loads encountered in the posterior region of the mouth.
Controlled attenuation parameter does not predict hepatic decompensation in patients with advanced chronic liver disease
Authors: Scheiner Bernhard , Steininger Lisa , Semmler Georg , Unger Lukas W. , Schwabl Philipp , Bucsics Theresa , Paternostro Rafael , Ferlitsch Arnulf , Trauner Michael , Reiberger Thomas , Mandorfer Mattias
Published: August 2018

Background & Aims

Assessment of hepatic steatosis by transient elastography (TE)‐based controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) might predict hepatic decompensation. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of CAP in patients with compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) and decompensated cirrhosis (DC).

Methods

A total of 430 patients who underwent TE (liver stiffness ≥10 kPa) and CAP measurements were included in this retrospective analysis. Half of patients (n = 189) underwent simultaneous HVPG measurement. In cACLD patients, first hepatic decompensation was defined by new onset of ascites, hepatic encephalopathy or variceal bleeding. In patients with DC, the following events were considered as further hepatic decompensation: requirement of paracentesis, admission for/development of grade 3/4 hepatic encephalopathy, variceal (re‐)bleeding or liver‐related death.

Results

First hepatic decompensation occurred in 25 of 292 (9%) cACLD patients, while 46 of 138 (33%) DC patients developed further hepatic decompensation during a median follow‐up of 22 and 12 months respectively. CAP was not predictive of first (cACLD; per 10 dB/m; hazard ratio [HR]: 0.97, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 0.91‐1.03, P = 0.321) or further hepatic decompensation (DC; HR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.94‐1.03, P = 0.554) in adjusted analysis. Using the well‐established CAP cut‐off of ≥248 dB/m for hepatic steatosis, the incidence of first (cACLD; P = 0.065) and further hepatic decompensation (DC; P = 0.578) was similar in patients with hepatic steatosis or without. Serum albumin levels (per mg/dL; HR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.77‐0.89, P < 0.001) and MELD‐Na (per point; HR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.04‐1.28, P = 0.006) in cACLD and MELD‐Na (per point; HR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.05‐1.19, P < 0.0001) in DC patients were the only parameters independently associated with first and further hepatic decompensation, respectively.

Conclusion

Controlled attenuation parameter does not predict the development of first (cACLD)/further (DC) hepatic decompensation, while serum albumin levels and MELD‐Na are of prognostic value.
Estimated burden of serious human fungal diseases in Turkey
Authors: Hilmioğlu‐Polat Süleyha , Seyedmousavi Seyedmojtaba , Ilkit Macit , Hedayati Mohammad Taghi , Inci Ramazan , Tumbay Emel , Denning David W.
Published: August 2018

The current number of fungal infections occurring each year in Turkey is unknown. We estimated the burden of serious human fungal diseases based on the population at risk, existing epidemiological data from 1920 to 2017 and modelling previously described by the LIFE program (http://www.LIFE-worldwide.org). Among the population of Turkey (80.8 million in 2017), approximately 1 785 811 (2.21%) people are estimated to suffer from a serious fungal infection each year. The model used predicts high prevalences of allergic fungal rhinosinusitis episodes (312 994 cases) (392/100 000), of severe asthma with fungal sensitisation (42 989 cases) (53.20 cases/100 000 adults per year), of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (32 594 cases) (40.33/100 000), of fungal keratitis (26 671 cases) (33/100 000) and of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (5890 cases) (7.29/100 000). The estimated annual incidence for invasive aspergillosis is lower (3911 cases) (4.84/100 000 annually). Among about 22.5 million women aged 15‐50 years, recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis is estimated to occur in 1 350 371 (3342/100 000) females. The burden of three superficial fungal infections was also estimated: tinea pedis (1.79 million), tinea capitis (43 900) and onychomycosis (1.73 million). Given that the modelling estimates reported in the current study might be substantially under‐ or overestimated, formal epidemiological and comprehensive surveillance studies are required to validate or modify these estimates.
On the mechanisms of development in monocot and eudicot leaves
Authors: Conklin Phillip A. , Strable Josh , Li Shujie , Scanlon Michael J.
Published: August 2018

Contents

Summary
706

I.
Introduction
707

II.
Leaf zones in monocot and eudicot leaves
707

III.
Monocot and eudicot leaf initiation: differences in degree and
timing, but not kind
710

IV.
Reticulate and parallel venation: extending the model?
711

V.
Flat laminar growth: patterning and coordination of
adaxial–abaxial and mediolateral axes
713

VI.
Stipules and ligules: ontogeny of primordial elaborations
715

VII.
Leaf architecture
716

VIII.
Stomatal development: shared and diverged mechanisms
for making epidermal pores
717

IX.
Conclusion
719

Acknowledgements
720

References
720

Comparisons of concepts in monocot and eudicot leaf development are presented, with attention to the morphologies and mechanisms separating these angiosperm lineages. Monocot and eudicot leaves are distinguished by the differential elaborations of upper and lower leaf zones, the formation of sheathing/nonsheathing leaf bases and vasculature patterning. We propose that monocot and eudicot leaves undergo expansion of mediolateral domains at different times in ontogeny, directly impacting features such as venation and leaf bases. Furthermore, lineage‐specific mechanisms in compound leaf development are discussed. Although models for the homologies of enigmatic tissues, such as ligules and stipules, are proposed, tests of these hypotheses are rare. Likewise, comparisons of stomatal development are limited to Arabidopsis and a few grasses. Future studies may investigate correlations in the ontogenies of parallel venation and linear stomatal files in monocots, and the reticulate patterning of veins and dispersed stoma in eudicots. Although many fundamental mechanisms of leaf development are shared in eudicots and monocots, variations in the timing, degree and duration of these ontogenetic events may contribute to key differences in morphology. We anticipate that the incorporation of an ever‐expanding number of sequenced genomes will enrich our understanding of the developmental mechanisms generating eudicot and monocot leaves.
Cell cycle acceleration and changes in essential nuclear functions induced by simulated microgravity in a synchronized Arabidopsis cell culture
Authors: Kamal Khaled Y. , Herranz Raúl , van Loon Jack J.W.A. , Medina F. Javier
Published: August 2018

Zero gravity is an environmental challenge unknown to organisms throughout evolution on Earth. Nevertheless, plants are sensitive to altered gravity, as exemplified by changes in meristematic cell proliferation and growth. We found that synchronized Arabidopsis‐cultured cells exposed to simulated microgravity showed a shortened cell cycle, caused by a shorter G2/M phase and a slightly longer G1 phase. The analysis of selected marker genes and proteins by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometry in synchronic G1 and G2 subpopulations indicated changes in gene expression of core cell cycle regulators and chromatin‐modifying factors, confirming that microgravity induced misregulation of G2/M and G1/S checkpoints and chromatin remodelling. Changes in chromatin‐based regulation included higher DNA methylation and lower histone acetylation, increased chromatin condensation, and overall depletion of nuclear transcription. Estimation of ribosome biogenesis rate using nucleolar parameters and selected nucleolar genes and proteins indicated reduced nucleolar activity under simulated microgravity, especially at G2/M. These results expand our knowledge of how meristematic cells are affected by real and simulated microgravity. Counteracting this cellular stress is necessary for plant culture in space exploration.
Support processes in same‐ and mixed‐sex relationships: Type and source matters
Authors: Blair Karen L. , Holmberg Diane , Pukall Caroline F.
Published: August 2018

Research has established that social support for relationships is an important predictor of well‐being. However, the underlying assumption that social support specifically for relationships is a separate construct from general social support has not been properly tested empirically, nor has the question of whether support processes vary by source (friends vs. family). The current study (N = 1,281) used confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling to address these issues. Support was found for a theoretical model in which social support specifically for relationships predicts relationship well‐being and, in turn, mental and physical health, even while controlling for general social support. Somewhat different patterns were found by source of support (family vs. friends) and by relationship type (same sex vs. mixed sex).
The State of Mixed Methods Research in Public Administration and Public Policy
Authors: Hendren Kathryn , Luo Qian Eric , Pandey Sanjay K.
Published: August 2018

Public administration scholars have publicized the benefits of mixed methods research and exhorted researchers to embrace mixed methods research design. Despite increasing calls for and numbers of mixed methods publications, thus far there has been no rigorous assessment of the value added by mixed methods research designs. This article provides an assessment of mixed methods articles published in leading public administration and public policy journals. The authors assess methodological quality, study purpose, and research design in order to determine the added value of mixed methods research designs. Findings highlight the promise of mixed methods research in public administration and public policy. Realizing this promise will require better appreciation of the added benefits of mixed methods designs, dedicated effort to improve the qualitative component of mixed methods studies, and greater attention to integrating the qualitative and quantitative components of mixed methods studies.
Understanding sources of variance and correlation among features of Bornean gibbon (Hylobates muelleri) female calls
Authors: Clink Dena J. , Grote Mark N. , Crofoot Margaret C. , Marshall Andrew J.
Published: August 2018

Acoustic signals serve important functions in mate choice, resource defense, and species recognition. Quantifying patterns and sources of variation in acoustic signals can advance understanding of the evolutionary processes that shape behavioral diversity more broadly. Animal vocalization datasets are inherently multivariate and hierarchical, wherein multiple features are estimated from calls of many individuals across different recording locations. Patterns of variation within different hierarchical levels—notwithstanding the challenges they present for modeling and inference—can provide insight into processes shaping vocal variation. The current work presents a multivariate, variance components model to investigate three levels of variance (within-female, between-female, and between-site) in Bornean gibbon calls. For six of the eight features estimated from call spectrograms, between-female variance was the most important contributor to total variance. For one feature, trill rate, there were site-level differences, which may be related to geographic isolation of certain gibbon populations. There was also a negative relationship between trill rate and duration of the introduction, suggesting trade-offs in the production of gibbon calls. Given substantial inter-individual variation in gibbon calls, it seems likely that there has been selection to confer information regarding caller identity, but mechanisms leading to site-level variation in trill rate remain to be determined.
The effect of pore size and density on ultrasonic attenuation in porous structures with mono-disperse random pore distribution: A two-dimensional in-silico study
Authors: Yousefian Omid , White R. D. , Karbalaeisadegh Yasamin , Banks H. T. , Muller Marie
Published: August 2018

This work proposes a power law model to describe the attenuation of ultrasonic waves in non-absorbing heterogeneous media with randomly distributed scatterers, mimicking a simplified structure of cortical bone. This paper models the propagation in heterogeneous structures with controlled porosity using a two-dimensional finite-difference time domain numerical simulation in order to measure the frequency dependent attenuation. The paper then fits a phenomenological model to the simulated frequency dependent attenuation by optimizing parameters under an ordinary least squares framework. Local sensitivity analysis is then performed on the resulting parameter estimates in order to determine to which estimates the model is most sensitive. This paper finds that the sensitivity of the model to various parameter estimates depends on the micro-architectural parameters, pore diameter (ϕ) and pore density (ρ). In order to get a sense for how confidently model parameters are able to be estimated, 95% confidence intervals for these estimates are calculated. In doing so, the ability to estimate model-sensitive parameters with a high degree of confidence is established. In the future, being able to accurately estimate model parameters from which micro-architectural ones could be inferred will allow pore density and diameter to be estimated via an inverse problem given real or simulated ultrasonic data to be determined.
Biocompatibility and Targeting Efficiency of Encapsulated Quinapyramine Sulfate-Loaded Chitosan-Mannitol Nanoparticles in a Rabbit Model of Surra
Authors: Manuja Anju , Kumar Balvinder , Kumar Rajender , Chopra Meenu , Dilbaghi Neeraj , Kumar Sandeep , Yadav Suresh C.
Published: August 2018

Quinapyramine sulfate (QS) produces trypanocidal effects against the parasite
Trypanosoma evansi
but is often poorly tolerated and causes serious reactions in animals. The encapsulation of QS in chitosan-mannitol to provide sustained release would improve both the therapeutic effect of QS and the quality of life of animals treated with this formulation.
Methods for Handling Left-Censored Data in Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment
Authors: Canales Robert A. , Wilson Amanda M. , Pearce-Walker Jennifer I. , Verhougstraete Marc P. , Reynolds Kelly A.
Published: August 2018

This study evaluates methods for handling data with low (10%) to severe (90%) left-censoring within an environmental microbiology context and demonstrates that some of these methods may be appropriate when using data containing concentrations below a limit of detection to estimate infection risks. Additionally, this study uses a skewed data set, which is an issue typically faced by environmental microbiologists.
Perinatal Streptococcus agalactiae Epidemiology and Surveillance Targets
Authors: Furfaro Lucy L. , Chang Barbara J. , Payne Matthew S.
Published: August 2018

Streptococcus agalactiae, or group B streptococcus (GBS), is a major neonatal pathogen. Recent data have elucidated the global prevalence of maternal and neonatal colonization, but gaps still remain in the epidemiology of this species.
Semen Exosomes Promote Transcriptional Silencing of HIV-1 by Disrupting NF-κB/Sp1/Tat Circuitry
Authors: Welch Jennifer L. , Kaddour Hussein , Schlievert Patrick M. , Stapleton Jack T. , Okeoma Chioma M.
Published: August 2018

HIV is most commonly transmitted sexually, and semen is the primary vector. Despite progress in studies of HIV pathogenesis and the success of combination antiretroviral therapy in controlling viral replication, current therapy cannot completely control sexual transmission. Thus, there is a need to identify effective methods of controlling HIV replication and transmission. Recently, it was shown that human semen contains exosomes that protect against HIV infection
in vitro
. In this study, we identified a mechanism by which semen exosomes inhibited HIV-1 RNA expression. We found that semen exosomes inhibit recruitment of transcription factors NF-κB and Sp1, as well as RNA Pol II, to the promoter region in the 5′ long terminal repeat (LTR) of HIV-1. The HIV-1 early protein transcriptional activator (Tat) was a target of semen exosomes, and semen exosomes inhibited the binding and recruitment of Tat to the HIV-1 LTR.
A Population-Based Surveillance Study of Shared Genotypes of Escherichia coli Isolates from Retail Meat and Suspected Cases of Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Yamaji Reina , Friedman Cindy R. , Rubin Julia , Suh Joy , Thys Erika , McDermott Patrick , Hung-Fan Melody , Riley Lee W.
Published: August 2018

Community-acquired urinary tract infection caused by
Escherichia coli
is one of the most common infectious diseases in the United States, affecting approximately seven million women and costing approximately 11.6 billion dollars annually. In addition, antibiotic resistance among
E. coli
bacteria causing urinary tract infection continues to increase, which greatly complicates treatment. Identifying sources of uropathogenic
E. coli
and implementing prevention measures are essential. However, the reservoirs of uropathogenic
E. coli
have not been well defined. This study demonstrated that poultry sold in retail stores may serve as one possible source of uropathogenic
E. coli
. This finding adds to a growing body of evidence that suggests that urinary tract infection may be a food-borne disease. More research in this area can lead to the development of preventive strategies to control this common and costly infectious disease.
Different doses of Pilates-based exercise therapy for chronic low back pain: a randomised controlled trial with economic evaluation
Authors: Miyamoto Gisela Cristiane , Franco Katherinne Ferro Moura , van Dongen Johanna M , Franco Yuri Rafael dos Santos , de Oliveira Naiane Teixeira Bastos , Amaral Diego Diulgeroglo Vicco , Branco Amanda Nery Castelo , da Silva Maria Liliane , van Tulder Maurits W , Cabral Cristina Maria Nunes
Published: August 2018

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness and cost-utility of the addition of different doses of Pilates to an advice for non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) from a societal perspective.

Design

Randomised controlled trial with economic evaluation.

Setting

Physiotherapy clinic in São Paulo, Brazil.

Participants

296 patients with NSCLBP.

Interventions

All patients received advice and were randomly allocated to four groups (n=74 per group): booklet group (BG), Pilates once a week (Pilates group 1, PG1), Pilates twice a week (Pilates group 2, PG2) and Pilates three times a week (Pilates group 3, PG3).

Main outcome measures

Primary outcomes were pain and disability at 6-week follow-up.

Results

Compared with the BG, all Pilates groups showed significant improvements in pain (PG1, mean difference (MD)=−1.2, 95% CI −2.2 to −0.3; PG2, MD=−2.3, 95% CI −3.2 to −1.4; PG3, MD=−2.1, 95% CI −3.0 to −1.1) and disability (PG1, MD=−1.9, 95% CI −3.6 to −0.1; PG2, MD=−4.7, 95% CI −6.4 to −3.0; PG3, MD=−3.3, 95% CI −5.0 to −1.6). Among the different doses, PG2 showed significant improvements in comparison with PG1 for pain (MD=−1.1, 95% CI −2.0 to −0.1) and disability (MD=−2.8, 95% CI −4.5 to −1.1). The cost-utility analysis showed that PG3 had a 0.78 probability of being cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay of £20 000 per quality-adjusted life-year gained.

Conclusions

Adding two sessions of Pilates exercises to advice provided better outcomes in pain and disability than advice alone for patients with NSCLBP; non-specific elements such as greater attention or expectation might be part of this effect. The cost-utility analysis showed that Pilates three times a week was the preferred option.

Trial registration number

NCT02241538, Completed.
‘Place bonding’ in children’s hospice care: a qualitative study
Authors: Dunbar Helena , Carter Bernie , Brown Jayne
Published: August 2018

Background

Limited knowledge exists of parents’ perceptions and experiences of children’s hospices and how these contribute to the varied access and uptake of services.

Aim

This study aimed to explore parents’ perspectives and experiences of a hospice, to understand the barriers and/or facilitators to accessing a hospice, and what characteristics parents wanted from hospice provision.

Methods

A two-phase qualitative study underpinned by a constructivist grounded theory methodology was employed. Phase 1 used focus groups to collect data from parents of children already accessing the hospice (n=24). Phase 2 used in-depth semistructured interviews with parents of children who did not use the hospice (n=7) and with parents who had previous experience of using a hospice (n=7).

Results

A grounded theory of place bonding was developed which illustrates the cognitive journey taken by parents of children with life-limiting conditions considering/receiving hospice care for their child.

Conclusions

Finding a place where they belonged and felt at ‘home’ made the decision to accept help in caring for their child with a life-limiting condition more acceptable. The theory of place bonding offers children’s hospices a new perspective from which to view how parents access, accept and build relationships at the hospice.
Molecular predictors of prevention of recurrence in HCC with sorafenib as adjuvant treatment and prognostic factors in the phase 3 STORM trial
Authors: Pinyol Roser , Montal Robert , Bassaganyas Laia , Sia Daniela , Takayama Tadatoshi , Chau Gar-Yang , Mazzaferro Vincenzo , Roayaie Sasan , Lee Han Chu , Kokudo Norihiro , Zhang Zhongyang , Torrecilla Sara , Moeini Agrin , Rodriguez-Carunchio Leonardo , Gane Edward , Verslype Chris , Croitoru Adina Emilia , Cillo Umberto , de la Mata Manuel , Lupo Luigi , Strasser Simone , Park Joong-Won , Camps Jordi , Solé Manel , Thung Swan N , Villanueva Augusto , Pena Carol , Meinhardt Gerold , Bruix Jordi , Llovet Josep M
Published: August 2018

Objective

Sorafenib is the standard systemic therapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Survival benefits of resection/local ablation for early HCC are compromised by 70% 5-year recurrence rates. The phase 3 STORM trial comparing sorafenib with placebo as adjuvant treatment did not achieve its primary endpoint of improving recurrence-free survival (RFS). The biomarker companion study BIOSTORM aims to define (A) predictors of recurrence prevention with sorafenib and (B) prognostic factors with B level of evidence.

Design

Tumour tissue from 188 patients randomised to receive sorafenib (83) or placebo (105) in the STORM trial was collected. Analyses included gene expression profiling, targeted exome sequencing (19 known oncodrivers), immunohistochemistry (pERK, pVEGFR2, Ki67), fluorescence in situ hybridisation (VEGFA) and immunome. A gene signature capturing improved RFS in sorafenib-treated patients was generated. All 70 RFS events were recurrences, thus time to recurrence equalled RFS. Predictive and prognostic value was assessed using Cox regression models and interaction test.

Results

BIOSTORM recapitulates clinicopathological characteristics of STORM. None of the biomarkers tested (related to angiogenesis and proliferation) or previously proposed gene signatures, or mutations predicted sorafenib benefit or recurrence. A newly generated 146-gene signature identifying 30% of patients captured benefit to sorafenib in terms of RFS (p of interaction=0.04). Thesesorafenib RFS responderswere significantly enriched in CD4+T, B and cytolytic natural killer cells, and lacked activated adaptive immune components. Hepatocytic pERK (HR=2.41; p=0.012) and microvascular invasion (HR=2.09; p=0.017) were independent prognostic factors.

Conclusion

In BIOSTORM, only hepatocytic pERK and microvascular invasion predicted poor RFS. No mutation, gene amplification or previously proposed gene signatures predicted sorafenib benefit. A newly generated multigene signature associated with improved RFS on sorafenib warrants further validation.

Trial registration number

NCT00692770.
Cardiopulmonary fitness in children with congenital heart diseases versus healthy children
Authors: Amedro Pascal , Gavotto Arthur , Guillaumont Sophie , Bertet Helena , Vincenti Marie , De La Villeon Gregoire , Bredy Charlène , Acar Philippe , Ovaert Caroline , Picot Marie-Christine , Matecki Stefan
Published: August 2018

Objective

We aimed to compare the cardiopulmonary fitness of children with congenital heart diseases (CHD) with that of age-adjusted and gender-adjusted controls. We also intended to identify clinical characteristics associated with maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) in this population.

Methods and results

We included in a cross-sectional multicentre study a total of 798 children (496 CHD and 302 controls) who underwent a complete cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET). The association of clinical characteristics with VO2max was studied using a multivariate analysis. Mean VO2max in the CHD group and control represented 93%±20% and 107%±17% of predicted values, respectively. VO2max was significantly lower in the CHD group, overall (37.8±0.3vs 42.6±0.4 mL/kg/min, P<0.0001) and for each group (P<0.05). The mean VO2max decline per year was significantly higher in CHD than in the controls overall (−0.84±0.10 vs −0.19±0.14 mL/kg/min/year, P<0.01), for boys (−0.72±0.14vs 0.11±0.19 mL/kg/min/year, P<0.01) and for girls (−1.00±0.13 vs −0.55±0.21 mL/kg/min/year, P=0.05). VO2max was associated with body mass index, ventilatory anaerobic threshold, female gender, restrictive ventilatory disorder, right ventricle systolic hypertension, tricuspid regurgitation, the number of cardiac catheter or surgery procedures, and the presence of a genetic anomaly.

Conclusions

Although the magnitude of the difference was not large, VO2max among children with CHD was significantly lower than in normal children. We suggest performing CPET in routine follow-up of these patients.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01202916; Post-results.
Community-based stroke system of care improves patient outcomes in Chinese rural areas
Authors: He Mingli , Wang Jin’e , Dong Qing , Ji Niu , Meng Pin , Liu Na , Geng Shan , Qin Sizhou , Xu Wenyan , Zhang Chuantong , Li Dabo , Zhang Huamin , Zhu Jinping , Qin Hua , Hui Rutai , Wang Yibo
Published: August 2018

Background

Building effective and efficient stroke care systems is a key step in improving prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of stroke. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of this stroke system of care on stroke management during a 2-year follow-up.

Methods

A stroke system of care was developed from November 2009 to November 2010 in three townships in Ganyu County. Additional three matched townships were invited as controls. We first investigated the stroke incidence of these populations. Subsequently, this stroke system of care and an educational campaign in the three intervention townships were implemented and the effectiveness of the system was evaluated in the next 2 years.

Results

At postintervention, more patients in the intervention communities obtained stroke knowledge and then the proportion of patients with stroke who were admitted within 3 hours of onset markedly increased in 2012 (12.0% vs 8.1%, p=0.044) and in 2013 (15.2% vs 9.7%, p=0.008) compared with those in the control communities. In the intervention communities, this proportion of patients with acute ischaemic stroke who received thrombolytic treatment was markedly raised from 2.1% in 2012 to 3.0% in 2013. More importantly, the fatality rate substantially decreased in 2013 in the intervention communities compared with that in the control communities (6.1% vs 9.7%, p=0.032). Similarly, the disability rate significantly decreased in 2013 (45.3% vs 51.5%, p=0.045).

Conclusions

The community-based stroke system of care was effective and practical for optimising stroke treatments and improving patient outcomes.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR-RCH-13003408, Post-results.
Distinguishing rheumatoid arthritis from psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Merola Joseph F , Espinoza Luis R , Fleischmann Roy
Published: August 2018

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) have key differences in clinical presentation, radiographic findings, comorbidities and pathogenesis to distinguish between these common forms of chronic inflammatory arthritis. Joint involvement is typically, but not always, asymmetric in PsA, while it is predominantly symmetric in RA. Bone erosions, without new bone growth, and cervical spine involvement are distinctive of RA, while axial spine involvement, psoriasis and nail dystrophy are distinctive of PsA. Patients with PsA typically have seronegative test findings for rheumatoid factor (RF) and cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibodies, while approximately 80% of patients with RA have positive findings for RF and CCP antibodies. Although there is overlap in the pathogenesis of PsA and RA, differences are also present that affect the efficacy of treatment. In PsA, levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-17, IL-22, IL-23, interferon-γ and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) are elevated, and in RA, levels of IL-1, IL-6, IL-22, IL-33, TNF-α, chemokine ligand 11 and chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 13 are elevated. Differences in the pathogenesis of RA and PsA translate into some variances in the specificity and efficacy of therapies.
Nonclassical properties of asymmetric two two-level atoms interacting with multi-photon quantized field
Authors: Nahla Abdallah A. , Ahmed M. M. A.
Published: August 2018

A quantum model for the interaction between asymmetric two two-level atoms and an electromagnetic field is presented. The [Formula: see text]-photon processes and atom–atom interaction are considered in this quantum model. The wavefunction for asymmetric case of the proposed model is obtained analytically. While, the explicit analytical formula of the wavefunction for symmetric case was calculated in previous works. Initially, the electromagnetic field is in the coherent state and two two-level atoms are identical in the excited states. For the proposed model, some statistical aspects are obtained, such as the linear entropy, atomic population inversion, entropy squeezing, atomic variance and von Neumann entropy. The evaluations of these statistical properties are discussed for the variation in the detuning parameters. Moreover, the nonclassical effects for atom–atom interaction are observed.
Regular and chaotic solutions in BEC for tilted bichromatical optical lattice
Authors: Tosyali Eren , Aydogmus Fatma , Yilmaz Ayberk
Published: August 2018

We investigate a Bose–Einstein condensate held in a 1D tilted bichromatical optical lattice potential by constructing its Poincaré sections in phase space. We explore dynamic of the system based on the relations between the system parameters and the solution behaviors. It is demonstrated that the system exhibits shock-wave like dynamic. The power spectrum graphs, bifurcation and Lyapunov exponents of BEC system are also presented.
Measure of general quantum correlations in optomechanics
Authors: Amazioug M. , Nassik M. , Habiballah N.
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we analyze nonclassical correlations between bipartite states in two optomechanical systems. The first system (Sec. 2) consists of two nanoresonators spatially separated by broadband squeezed light, where each cavity has a fixed mirror and a movable one. The second system (Sec. 3) is an atom-optomechanical system consisting of an atomic ensemble placed inside an optical nanoresonator with a vibrating mirror. For both optomechanical systems, we give the Hamiltonian and the explicit expression of covariance matrix leading to the quantum equations describing the dynamic evolution of the system. Then, the nonclassical correlations are quantified using the logarithmic negativity and Gaussian quantum discord. We propose also a scheme for examining the evolution of Gaussian quantum steering and its asymmetry in each system. We show that the entanglement of the two mechanical modes is very strongly related to the parameters characterizing the environment where the movable mirrors evolve, in particular the squeeze parameter, the optomechanical cooperativity and thermal bath temperature.
U-Abundant Semigroups with Ehresmann Transversals
Authors: Ma Siyao , Ren Xueming , Gong Chunmei
Published: August 2018

A class of weakly U-abundant semigroups satisfying the congruence condition (C) is investigated, which contains both the class of regular semigroups and the class of abundant semigroups as its subclasses. In particular, the class of weakly U-abundant semigroups satisfying the congruence condition (C) with Ehresmann transversals is studied. After giving some properties of U-abundant semigroups with Ehresmann transversals, we establish some characterization theorems for such semigroups. Our results may be regarded as an extension of the work of Blyth, McAlister and McFadden in regular semigroups and that of El-Qallali, Guo and Chen in abundant semigroups.
Pregnancy stage determines the effect of chronic stress on ovarian progesterone synthesis
Authors: Wilsterman Kathryn , Gotlieb Neta , Kriegsfeld Lance J. , Bentley George E.
Published: August 2018

Although stress-induced glucocorticoid release is thought to be a primary driver by which maternal stress negatively impacts pregnancy outcomes, the downstream neuroendocrine targets mediating these adverse outcomes are less well understood. We hypothesized that stress-induced glucocorticoid secretion inhibits pituitary hormone secretion, resulting in decreased ovarian progesterone synthesis. Using a chronic restraint model of stress in mice, we quantified steroid hormone production, pituitary hormones, and expression of ovarian genes that support progesterone production at both early ( day 5) and midpregnancy ( day 10). Females subjected to daily restraint had elevated baseline glucocorticoids during both early and midpregnancy; however, lower circulating progesterone was observed only during early pregnancy. Lower progesterone production was associated with lower expression of steroidogenic enzymes in the ovary of restrained females during early pregnancy. There were no stress-related changes to luteinizing hormone (LH) or prolactin (PRL). By midpregnancy, circulating LH decreased regardless of treatment, and this was associated with downregulation of ovarian steroidogenic gene expression. Our results are consistent with a role for LH in maintaining steroidogenic enzyme expression in the ovary, but neither circulating PRL nor LH were associated with the stress-induced inhibition of ovarian progesterone production during early pregnancy. We conclude that chronic stress impacts endocrine networks differently in pregnant and nonpregnant mammals. These findings underscore the need for further studies exploring dynamic changes in endocrine networks participating in pregnancy initiation and progression to elucidate the physiological mechanisms that connect stress exposure to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
PRESENCE: Monitoring and Modelling the Performance Metrics of Mobile Cloud SaaS Web Services
Authors: Ibrahim Abdallah A. Z. A. , Wasim Muhammad Umer , Varrette Sebastien , Bouvry Pascal
Published: August 2018

Service Level Agreements (SLAs) are defining the quality of the services delivered from the Cloud Services Providers (CSPs) to the cloud customers. The services are delivered on a pay-per-use model. The quality of the provided services is not guaranteed by the SLA because it is just a contract. The developments around mobile cloud computing and the advent of edge computing technologies are contributing to the diffusion of the cloud services and the multiplication of offers. Although the cloud services market is growing for the coming years, unfortunately, there is no standard mechanism which exists to verify and assure that delivered services satisfy the signed SLA agreement in an automatic way. The accurate monitoring and modelling of the provided Quality of Service (QoS) is also missing. In this context, we aim at offering an automatic framework named PRESENCE, to evaluate the QoS and SLA compliance of Web Services (WSs) offered across several CSPs. Yet unlike other approaches, PRESENCE aims at quantifying in a fair and by stealth way the performance and scalability of the delivered WS. This article focuses on the first experimental results obtained on the accurate modelisation of each individual performance metrics. Indeed, 19 generated models are provided, out of which 78.9% accurately represent the WS performance metrics for two representative SaaS web services used for the validation of the PRESENCE approach. This opens novel perspectives for assessing the SLA compliance of Cloud providers using the PRESENCE framework.
Analytical Model for Estimating the Impact of Changing the Nominal Power Parameter in LTE
Authors: Vallejo-Mora A. B. , Toril M. , Luna-Ramírez S. , Regueira M. , Pedraza S.
Published: August 2018

UpLink Power Control (ULPC) is a key radio resource management procedure in mobile networks. In this paper, an analytical model for estimating the impact of increasing the nominal power parameter in the ULPC algorithm for the Physical Uplink Shared CHannel (PUSCH) in Long Term Evolution (LTE) is presented. The aim of the model is to predict the effect of changing the nominal power parameter in a cell on the interference and Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio (SINR) of that cell and its neighbors from network statistics. Model assessment is carried out by means of a field trial where the nominal power parameter is increased in some cells of a live LTE network. Results show that the proposed model achieves reasonable estimation accuracy, provided uplink traffic does not change significantly.
Pretreatment Hepatitis C Virus NS5A/NS5B Resistance-Associated Substitutions in Genotype 1 Uruguayan Infected Patients
Authors: Aldunate Fabián , Echeverría Natalia , Chiodi Daniela , López Pablo , Sánchez-Cicerón Adriana , Fajardo Alvaro , Soñora Martín , Cristina Juan , Hernández Nelia , Moreno Pilar
Published: August 2018

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection treatment has dramatically changed with the advent of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs). However, the efficacy of DAAs can be attenuated by the presence of resistance-associated substitutions (RASs) before and after treatment. Indeed, RASs detected in DAA treatment-naïve HCV-infected patients could be useful for clinical management and outcome prediction. Although the frequency of naturally occurring HCV NS5A and NS5B RASs has been addressed in many countries, there are only a few reports on their prevalence in the South American region. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of RASs to NS5A and NS5B inhibitors in a DAA treatment naïve cohort of Uruguayan patients infected with chronic hepatitis C and compare them with reports from other South American countries. Here, we found that naturally occurring substitutions conferring resistance to NS5A and NS5B inhibitors were present in 8% and 19.2%, respectively, of treatment-naïve HCV genotype 1 infected patients. Importantly, the baseline substitutions in NS5A and NS5B herein identified differ from the studies previously reported in Brazil. Furthermore, Uruguayan strains subtype 1a clustered within all major world clades, showing that HCV variants currently circulating in this country are characterized by a remarkable genetic diversity.
Aberrantly Expressed Genes and miRNAs in Slow Transit Constipation Based on RNA-Seq Analysis
Authors: Zhao Shipeng , Chen Qiang , Kang Xianwu , Kong Bin , Wang Zhuo
Published: August 2018

Background. This study aims to identify the key genes and miRNAs in slow transit constipation (STC). Methods. MRNA and miRNA expression profiling were obtained. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and miRNAs were identified followed by the regulatory network construction. Functional annotation analysis and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network were conducted. The electronic validation was performed. Results. Hsa-miR-2116-3p, hsa-miR-3622a-5p, hsa-miR-424-5p, and hsa-miR-1273-3p covered most DEGs. HLA-DRB1, HLA-DRB5, C3, and ICAM were significantly involved in staphylococcus aureus infection. The PPI network generated several hub proteins including ZBTB16, FBN1, CCNF, and CDK1. Electronic validation of HLA-DRB1, PTGDR, MKI67, BIRC5, CCNF, and CDK1 was consistent with the RNA-sequencing analysis. Conclusion. Our study might be helpful in understanding the pathology of STC at the molecular level.
An Uncommon Case of Pyogenic Spondylodiscitis Caused by Gemella morbillorum
Authors: Sono Takashi , Takemoto Mitsuru , Shinohara Koh , Tsuchido Yasuhiro
Published: August 2018

An 81-year-old man presented with severe back pain. Magnetic resonance imaging detected L5/S discitis without signs of epidural abscess. Punctures of the disc revealed that the causative organism was Gemella morbillorum (G. morbillorum), which is part of the normal flora of the oral cavity and an uncommon causative pathogen of spondylodiscitis. The E-test method was useful for rapid susceptibility testing. Intravenous penicillin G treatment was effective, and the patient recovered without surgery.
Moving Target Tracking of Extended Nonholonomic Chained-Form Systems via Finite-Time Switching Control
Authors: Chen Hua , Chen Lei , Tong Fei
Published: August 2018

A finite-time switching control scheme is presented for tracking a practical moving target of extended nonholonomic chained-form systems. Firstly, a dynamic output tracking error model is proposed combining moving target and extended nonholonomic chained-form systems. Secondly, two decoupled subsystems are considered for the tracking error systems, based on which the rigorous convergence and stability analysis are proposed by applying the finite-time stability control theory and switching design methods. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed finite-time switching control approach is performed according to the further simulation results.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Glucose Intolerance among Saudi Women with Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Wahabi Hayfaa
Published: August 2018

Objectives. The objective of this study was to determine the incidence and risk factors of glucose intolerance one year after delivery in women with gestational diabetes (GDM). Methods. All women who had GDM and completed one year since delivery at King Khalid University Hospital were contacted to participate in the study. Based on to the American Diabetes Association criteria and the results of fasting blood glucose (FPG) and HbA1c, participants were classified into three groups: diabetic, impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and normal. The incidence of diabetes and IGT was calculated. Clinical, biochemical, and sociodemographic predictors of glucose intolerance were compared between the three groups. Odds ratio (OR) for risk factors with P value less than 0.05 was calculated. Results. From a total 316 eligible women, 133 fulfilled the inclusion criteria and agreed to participate in the study. From the study participants, 58 (44%) women were normoglycemic, 60 (45%) women had IGT, and 15 (11%) women were diabetic. The odds of developing IGT or diabetes increased to nearly fourfold when women needed insulin for the control of GDM during pregnancy (OR 3.8, 95% CI 0.81–18.3, P=0.08) and to nearly one-and-a-half-fold when they have positive family history of T2DM (OR 1.2, 95% CI 0.74–2.09, P=0.40). Nevertheless, none of the odds ratios was statistically significant. Conclusion. The incidence of postpartum hyperglycemia (diabetes and IGT) is very high in Saudi women with GDM. Family history of diabetes and insulin treatment of GDM may be predictors of postpartum hyperglycemia.