bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood donation from 2006 to 2015 in Zhejiang Province, China: annual consecutive cross-sectional studies
Authors: Hu Wei , Meng Hongdao , Hu Qiuyue , Feng Lijuan , Qu Xianguo
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To describe the basic demographical characteristics of whole blood donors in Zhejiang Province, China, from 2006 to 2015 and to examine the trends in individual characteristics associated with blood donation and the relationship between weight and donation.

Design

Cross-sectional study comparing characteristics of blood donors and annual donations for the period 2006 to 2015.

Setting

Urban and rural communities in Zhejiang, China(11 cities, 89 districts or counties and 1379 townships).

Participants

3 226 571 volunteer blood donors.

Outcome measures

Volume of each whole blood donation and donation frequency. All data were collected by trained staff and entered into a standardised electronic information system.

Results

The number of blood donations generally trended up in Zhejiang Province from 2006 to 2015. Donors were predominately males aged 18 to 25 years, but this major donor age group shifted to the 26 to 45 year range by 2015. The rate of repeated blood donation was 30.8 per cent. The blood volume per donation concentrated in 200 mL and 400 mL categories has been gradually shifted to 300 mL and 400 mL. Approximately one-third of donors had a college education. The average weight of donors increased over time for both men and women. Both the blood volume of each donation and donation frequency were proportional to weight.

Conclusions

The trend of voluntary non-remunerated blood donation in Zhejiang province is positive. However, given the expected growth in demand for whole blood, more research is needed to increase both the donor pool and the rate of repeated donation. The relationship between body weight and blood donation warrants further study because while improving nutritional status is associated with higher average donation volume and more frequent donations, overnutrition may lead to poorer quality of donated blood. Blood donation may present a unique opportunity for health education and body weight management to monitor and improve population health.
A gender-transformative approach to improve outcomes and equity among persons with traumatic brain injury
Authors: Mollayeva Tatyana , Amodio Vanessa , Mollayeva Shirin , D’Souza Andrea , Colquhoun Heather , Quilico Enrico , Haag Halina (Lin) , Colantonio Angela
Published: May 2019

Introduction

The initiation and translation of sex-sensitive and gender-sensitive research programmes into clinically useful considerations for patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) have been difficult. Clinical frameworks are currently not specific according to sex and gender, despite evidence that these constructs influence the incidence, course and outcome of patients with TBI. The present protocol outlines a strategy for a research programme, supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Institute of Gender and Health, which explores sex and gender topics in the context of TBI, with the goal of building an infrastructure to facilitate the implementation of sex/gender-sensitive research findings into clinical considerations.

Methods and analysis

A comprehensive multistep research programme is proposed to support three research objectives: (1) documentation of important concepts and ideas for education on topics of sex and gender in the TBI context using a knowledge-user feedback framework, current scientific evidence and the research team’s expertise; (2) development of educational materials for patients with TBI, significant others and clinicians providing care that account for sex/gender and (3) testing the application of these educational materials for feasibility and effectiveness. This programme supports the CIHR Institute’s mission by facilitating partnership with knowledge users across clinical, research, academic and community sectors, through a range of platforms and activities.

Ethics and dissemination

The Research Ethics Board of the University Health Network has approved the programme. It is anticipated that this work will add significant value to the advancement of the field of sex, gender and health by serving as a model to foster the integration of these constructs across the spectrum of disorders. This will transform clinical practices and ensure that generated knowledge is translated into improved training programmes, policies and health services that are responsive to the diverse needs of men and women with TBI.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018098697
AIDS-related stigmatisation in the healthcare setting: a study of primary healthcare centres that provide services for prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Ehiri John E , Alaofè Halimatou S , Yesufu Victoria , Balogun Mobolanle , Iwelunmor Juliet , Kram Nidal A-Z , Lott Breanne E , Abosede Olayinka
Published: May 2019

Objective

To assess AIDS stigmatising attitudes and behaviours by prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) service providers in primary healthcare centres in Lagos, Nigeria.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting

Thirty-eight primary healthcare centres in Lagos, Nigeria.

Participants

One hundred and sixty-one PMTCT service providers.

Outcome measures

PMTCT service providers’ discriminatory behaviours, opinions and stigmatising attitudes towards persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs), and nature of the work environment (HIV/AIDS-related policies and infection-control guidelines/supplies).

Results

Reported AIDS-related stigmatisation was low: few respondents (4%) reported hearing coworkers talk badly about PLWHAs or observed provision of poor-quality care to PLWHAs (15%). Health workers were not worried about secondary AIDS stigmatisation due to their occupation (86%). Opinions about PLWHAs were generally supportive; providers strongly agreed that women living with HIV should be allowed to have babies if they wished (94%). PMTCT service providers knew that consent was needed prior to HIV testing (86%) and noted that they would get in trouble at work if they discriminated against PLWHAs (83%). A minority reported discriminatory attitudes and behaviours; 39% reported wearing double gloves and 41% used other special infection-control measures when providing services to PLWHAs. Discriminatory behaviours were correlated with negative opinions about PLWHAs (r=0.21, p<0.01), fear of HIV infection (r=0.16, p<0.05) and professional resistance (r=0.32, p<0.001). Those who underwent HIV training had less fear of contagion.

Conclusions

This study documented generally low levels of reported AIDS-related stigmatisation by PMTCT service providers in primary healthcare centres in Lagos. Policies that reduce stigmatisation against PLWHA in the healthcare setting should be supported by the provision of basic resources for infection control. This may reassure healthcare workers of their safety, thus reducing their fear of contagion and professional resistance to care for individuals who are perceived to be at high risk of HIV.
Perceptions of Australian physiotherapy students about the potential implementation of physiotherapist prescribing in Australia: a national survey
Authors: Noblet Timothy David , Marriott John F , Jones Taryn , Dean Catherine , Rushton Alison B
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To explore the perceptions of Australian physiotherapy students about (1) the potential implementation and use of non-medical prescribing by physiotherapists in Australia and (2) how physiotherapist prescribing might impact the care that the physiotherapy profession can provide in the future.

Design

A cross-sectional descriptive survey of physiotherapy students across Australia was completed using an online questionnaire developed by subject-experts and pretested (n=10) for internal consistency. A hyperlink to the questionnaire was emailed to all students enrolled in any accredited, entry-level Australian university physiotherapy programme. A reminder email was sent 4 weeks later.

Setting

Participants completed an online questionnaire.

Participants

526 physiotherapy students from universities across all states with entry-level programmes.

Outcome measures

Quantitative data underwent primary descriptive analysis. Thematic analysis was used to synthesise qualitative data.

Results

87% of participants supported the introduction of physiotherapist prescribing in Australia. 91% of participants stated that they would train to prescribe following introduction. Participants identified improvements in clinical and cost effectiveness, timely access to appropriate prescription medicines and optimisation of quality healthcare as key drivers for the introduction.

Conclusions

Student physiotherapists support the introduction of physiotherapist prescribing in Australia, reporting potential benefits for patients, health services and the physiotherapy profession. Stakeholders should use the results of this study in conjunction with supporting literature to inform future decisions regarding physiotherapist prescribing in Australia.
Trends of prescribing antimicrobial drugs for urinary tract infections in primary care in the Netherlands: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Mulder Marlies , Baan Esmé , Verbon Annelies , Stricker Bruno , Verhamme Katia
Published: May 2019

Objective

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are an important reason to consult a general practitioner (GP). Here, we describe antimicrobial drug prescribing patterns for UTIs by GPs in relation to the Dutch primary care guidelines.

Methods

We conducted a population-based cohort study in the Dutch Integrated Primary Care Information (IPCI)database, which encompasses approximately 2.5 million patients. All patients aged ≥12 years with at least 1 year of follow-up from 1996 to 2014 were extracted from the database. The number of prescriptions and choice of drug type were investigated over time and in different age categories. The choice of antimicrobial drug classes for UTIs and the duration of nitrofurantoin use in women were compared with the Dutch primary care guidelines of 1989, 1999, 2005 and 2013.

Results

The source population comprised 1 755 085 patients who received 2 019 335 antimicrobial drug prescriptions; 401 655 (35.1%) prescriptions were for UTIs (45.2% in women and 12.6% in men). The proportion of prescriptions for UTIs within all prescriptions with an indication code increased from 5.2% in 1996 to 14% in 2014 in men and from 28% in 1996 to 50% in 2014 in women. In men, UTIs were most frequently treated with fluoroquinolones during the entire study period, whereas fluoroquinolones were only advised as first choice in the latest guideline of 2013. In women, UTIs were increasingly (p<0.05) treated with nitrofuran derivatives with a statistically significant difference after implementation of the guideline of 2005. Compliance to the advised duration of nitrofurantoin prescriptions in women has increased since the guideline of 2005.

Conclusions

Antimicrobial drug prescribing for UTIs seemed to have increased over time. Prescribing in line with the UTI guidelines increased with regard to choice and duration of antimicrobial drugs. We showed that databases like IPCI, in which prescription and indication are monitored, can be valuable antibiotic stewardship tools.
Comparative efficacy and acceptability of antidepressants in the long-term treatment of major depression: protocol for a systematic review and networkmeta-analysis
Authors: Shinohara Kiyomi , Efthimiou Orestis , Ostinelli Edoardo G , Tomlinson Anneka , Geddes John R , Nierenberg Andrew A , Ruhe Henricus G , Furukawa Toshi A , Cipriani Andrea
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Pharmacotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of major depression. At the initiation of antidepressant treatment, both improvement of symptoms in the short term and relapse prevention in the long term should be taken into account. However, there is insufficient evidence regarding the efficacy and the acceptability of continuation/maintenance treatments and the relative efficacy/acceptability of antidepressants.

Objective

We will conduct a pairwise meta-analysis and a network meta-analysis (NMA) to examine the relative efficacy, tolerability and acceptability of antidepressants in the long-term treatment of major depression.

Methods and analysis

We will include double-blind randomised controlled trials comparing any of the following antidepressants, which we included in our previous NMA of the acute treatment for major depression, with placebo or with another active drug for long-term treatment of major depression: agomelatine, amitriptyline, bupropion, citalopram, clomipramine, desvenlafaxine, duloxetine, escitalopram, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, levomilnacipran, milnacipran, mirtazapine, nefazodone, paroxetine, reboxetine, sertraline, trazodone, venlafaxine, vilazodone and vortioxetine. Our primary outcomes will be sustained response and all-cause dropouts. We will include four types of designs that are used to investigate long-term treatment. We will conduct two main analyses. First, we will conduct a pairwise meta-analysis comparing all antidepressants versus placebo to investigate whether continuing antidepressants after achieving a positive response in the acute-phase treatment is beneficial and/or safe. Second, we will conduct an NMA to examine the comparative efficacy and acceptability of the drugs. We will use a novel approach that will combine the results of acute-phase treatment NMA with long-term treatment studies to include all related designs in the NMA. We will ensure the validity of combining different designs and our new approach by checking the distribution of important effect modifiers and consistency of network.

Ethics and dissemination

This study did not require ethical approval. We will disseminate our findings by publishing results in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018114561; Pre-results.
Analysis of the challenges in implementing guidelines to prevent the spread of multidrug-resistant gram-negatives in Europe
Authors: Tacconelli Evelina , Buhl Michael , Humphreys Hilary , Malek Veronika , Presterl Elisabeth , Rodriguez-Baño Jesús , Vos Margreet C , Zingg Walter , Mutters Nico T
Published: May 2019

Objective

The main objective of the study was to investigate major differences among European countries in implementing infection prevention and control (IPC) measures and reasons for reduced compliance.

Design

An online survey including experts in IPC and a gap analysis were conducted to identify major limitations in implementing IPC guidelines.

Setting

Europe.

Main outcome measures

Four areas were targeted: (1) healthcare structure, (2) finances, (3) culture and (4) education and awareness. Perceived compliance to IPC measures was classified as low (<50%), medium (50% to 80%) and high (>80%). Countries were classified in three regions: North-Western Europe (NWE), Eastern Europe (EE) and Southern Europe (SE).

Results

In total, 482 respondents from 34 out of 44 (77.3%) European countries participated. Respondents reported availability of national guidelines to control multidrug-resistant Gram-negatives (MDR-GN) in 20 countries (58.0%). According to participants, compliance with IPC measures ranged from 17.8% (screening at discharge) to 96.0% (contact precautions). Overall, three areas were identified as critical for the compliance rate: (1) number of infection control staff, (2) IPC dedicated educational programmes and (3) number of clinical staff. Analysis of reasons for low compliance showed high heterogeneity among countries: participants from NWE and SE deemed the lack of educational programmes as the most important, while those from EE considered structural reasons, such as insufficient single bed rooms or lacking materials for isolation, as main contributors to the low compliance.

Conclusions

Although national guidelines to reduce the spread of MDR-GN are reported in the majority of the European countries, low compliance with IPC measures was commonly reported. Reasons for the low compliance are multifactorial and vary from region to region. Cross-country actions to reduce the spread of MDR-GN have to consider structural and cultural differences in countries. Locally calibrated interventions may be fruitful in the future.
Process evaluation protocol for a cluster randomised trial of a complex, nurse-led intervention to improve hypertension management in India
Authors: Srinivasapura Venkateshmurthy Nikhil , Mc Namara Kevin , Koorts Harriet , Mohan Sailesh , S Ajay Vamadevan , Jindal Devraj , Malipeddi Bhaskara Rao , Roy Ambuj , Tandon Nikhil , Prabhakaran Dorairaj , Worsley Tony , Maddison Ralph , O’Reilly Sharleen
Published: May 2019

Introduction

India has high prevalence of hypertension but low awareness, treatment and control rate. A cluster randomised trial entitled ‘m-Power Heart Project’ is being implemented to test the effectiveness of a nurse care coordinator (NCC) led complex intervention to address uncontrolled hypertension in the community health centres (CHCs). The trial’s process evaluation will assess the fidelity and quality of implementation, clarify the causal mechanisms and identify the contextual factors associated with variation in the outcomes. The trial will use a theory-based mixed-methods process evaluation, guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.

Methods and analysis

The process evaluation will be conducted in the CHCs of Visakhapatnam (southern India). The key stakeholders involved in the intervention development and implementation will be included as participants. In-depth interviews will be conducted with intervention developers, doctors, NCCs and health department officials and focus groups with patients and their caregivers. NCC training will be evaluated using Kirkpatrick’s model for training evaluation. Key process evaluation indicators (number of patients recruited and retained; concordance between the treatment plans generated by the electronic decision support system and treatment prescribed by the doctor and so on) will be assessed. Fidelity will be assessed using Borrelliet al’s framework. Qualitative data will be analysed using the template analysis technique. Quantitative data will be summarised as medians (IQR), means (SD) and proportions as appropriate. Mixed-methods analysis will be conducted to assess if the variation in the mean reduction of systolic blood pressure between the intervention CHCs is influenced by patient satisfaction, training outcome, attitude of doctors, patients and NCCs about the intervention, process indicators etc.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the ethics committees at Public Health Foundation of India and Deakin University. Findings will be disseminated via peer-reviewed publications, national and international conference presentations.

Trial registration number

NCT03164317; Pre-results.
Process evaluation of complex interventions tested in randomised controlled trials in musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Ribeiro Daniel C , Abbott J Haxby , Sharma Saurab , Lamb Sarah E
Published: May 2019

Introduction

The effectiveness of complex interventions for the management of musculoskeletal disorders has been estimated in many randomised clinical trials (RCTs). These trials inform which interventions are the most effective, however they do not always inform how an intervention achieved its clinical outcomes, nor how and what elements of an intervention were delivered to patients. Such information is useful for translating findings into clinical practice. A few process evaluation studies have been conducted alongside RCTs and a variety of methods have been used. To gain a better understanding of current practices of process evaluation in RCTs in musculoskeletal disorders, this systematic review is designed to answer the following research question: How are process evaluation of complex interventions tested in RCTs in musculoskeletal disorders being conducted?

Methods and analysis

We will systematically search seven electronic databases (MEDLINE, SCOPUS, CINAHL, PsycINFO, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane database) from the date of inception to August 2018 for studies on process evaluation of RCTs on non-surgical and non-pharmacological management of musculoskeletal disorders. We will include qualitative and quantitative studies conducted alongside RCTs, reported with the RCTs or separate studies that assessed interventions for musculoskeletal disorders. Two reviewers will screen abstracts and apply prespecified inclusion criteria to identify relevant studies, extract the data and assess the risk of bias within included studies. We will follow recommendations from the ‘Cochrane Qualitative and Implementation Methods Group Guidance Series’ when assessing methodological strengths and limitations of included studies. We will use a narrative synthesis to describe findings.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as this review will not collect original data. Findings from this systematic review will be presented at a scientific conference and published in a peer reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018109600
Temporal trends and socioeconomic differences in acute respiratory infection hospitalisations in children: an intercountry comparison of birth cohort studies in Western Australia, England and Scotland
Authors: Moore Hannah C , de Klerk Nicholas , Blyth Christopher C , Gilbert Ruth , Fathima Parveen , Zylbersztejn Ania , Verfürden Maximiliane , Hardelid Pia
Published: May 2019

Objectives

Acute respiratory infections (ARIs) are a global cause of childhood morbidity. We compared temporal trends and socioeconomic disparities for ARI hospitalisations in young children across Western Australia, England and Scotland.

Design

Retrospective population-based cohort studies using linked birth, death and hospitalisation data.

Setting and participants

Population birth cohorts spanning 2000–2012 (Western Australia and Scotland) and 2003–2012 (England).

Outcome measures

ARI hospitalisations in infants (<12 months) and children (1–4 years) were identified through International Classification of Diseases, 10th edition diagnosis codes. We calculated admission rates per 1000 child-years by diagnosis and jurisdiction-specific socioeconomic deprivation and used negative binomial regression to assess temporal trends.

Results

The overall infant ARI admission rate was 44.3/1000 child-years in Western Australia, 40.7/1000 in Scotland and 40.1/1000 in England. Equivalent rates in children aged 1–4 years were 9.0, 7.6 and 7.6. Bronchiolitis was the most common diagnosis. Compared with the least socioeconomically deprived, those most deprived had higher ARI hospitalisation risk (incidence rate ratio 3.9 (95% CI 3.5 to 4.2) for Western Australia; 1.9 (1.7 to 2.1) for England; 1.3 (1.1 to 1.4) for Scotland. ARI admissions in infants were stable in Western Australia but increased annually in England (5%) and Scotland (3%) after adjusting for non-ARI admissions, sex and deprivation.

Conclusions

Admissions for ARI were higher in Western Australia and displayed greater socioeconomic disparities than England and Scotland, where ARI rates are increasing. Prevention programmes focusing on disadvantaged populations in all three countries are likely to translate into real improvements in the burden of ARI in children.
Paraneoplastic phenomenon in mesothelioma
Authors: Waqar Ali Bin , Menzies Daniel , Casey Mared , Doran Mark
Published: May 2019

A 71-year-old man presented with breathlessness and visual disturbance. On examination of the chest, he had signs suggestive of a right-sided pleural effusion and a neurological examination yielded conjugate vertical gaze palsy. Subsequent investigations revealed pleural thickening and mesothelioma. His anti-Ma2 antibodies were positive indicating a paraneoplastic syndrome as the cause of the vertical gaze palsy.
Treatment of bitches with acquired urinary incontinence with oestriol
Authors: Mandigers P. J. J. , Nell T.
Published: May 2019

Oestriol, a naturally occurring short‐acting oestrogen, was used to treat acquired urinary incontinence in 129 bitches selected by 48 veterinary practitioners in the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Germany. The dogs were treated daily for 42 days with oestriol tablets, using a self‐controlled study design. The dogs were examined and blood sampled at the beginning and end of the trial. According to the veterinary practitioners 83 per cent of the dogs either became continent or improved, but the others showed no change or became worse. The owners reported similar results: 82 per cent of the dogs responded to treatment and the others did not. The dose and treatment schedule for each dog were established on the basis of clinical efficacy. Mild and transient oestrogenic effects such as swelling of the vulva and attractiveness to male dogs were observed soon after the treatment began and at the higher dose schedule used in 12 of the dogs. A haematological examination of 1 4 of the dogs revealed no abnormalities.
On the relationship between limiting current and mass-transport impedance at zero frequency
Authors: Harrington David
Published: May 2019

The zero-frequency reversible mass transport impedance (measured at the reversible potential) is shown to be simply related to the limiting current density (far from the reversible potential). For mass transport of a single species exchanging n electrons with the electrode, their product is RT/nF . For the two-species case, O + ne -> R, the same product is found, provided the harmonic mean of the anodic and cathodiclimiting currents is used. This applies for most of the mass-transport situations found in electrochemistry, including with forced convection or for electrodes without uniform accessibility.
Effect of Tunnel Pit Radius Variation on the Electric Characteristics of Aluminum Electrolytic Capacitor
Authors: Mukaiyama Daisaku
Published: May 2019

The electric characteristics of aluminum electrolytic capacitors had been analyzed by the transmission line model. The anode foil pits are considered as cylindrical holes and the pit impedance is estimated by the transmission line mode, too. The pit impedance depends on the pit geometry, in particular, radius. The distribution of the pit radius of etched foils is not in accordance with a normal distribution, but a log normal distribution. In this paper, the effect of the pit radius distribution on the impedance of aluminum electrolytic capacitors is calculated by Monte Carlo method. #ECS235, Presentation Type: Oral,Date/Time/Location: May 28, 2019 (11:00h-11:20h, Pearl 5) Symposium: F03: Characterization of Porous Materials 8,Presentation Type: Oral, Abstract Number: #F03-1107
Changes in Retinal Vasculature and Thickness after Small Incision Lenticule Extraction with Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Chen Minjie , Dai Jinhui , Gong Lan
Published: May 2019

Purpose. To evaluate the changes in retinal vessel density and thickness after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) with optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in myopic patients. Methods. In this prospective study, SMILE surgeries were done in 46 eyes of 24 patients with spherical equivalent (SE) more than −6.0 diopters (D). Retinal vessel density and thickness at the macula and optic nerve were recorded with OCTA before and 1 day, 2 weeks, and 1 month after surgery. Intraocular pressure (IOP), uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), and refraction were taken at the same time. Results. The superficial retinal vessel density and deep foveal retinal vessel density 1 day after surgery were less than those before surgery; however, the changes at any timepoints were not statistically significant (p=0.2736 and p=0.1590, respectively). Both the superficial vessel density and deep vessel density at the parafoveal and perifoveal regions decreased significantly 1 day postoperatively (all p<0.05) and then returned to the preoperative level at 2 weeks and stabilized thereafter. There were no significant changes in any of the 4 vessel densities in the area of peripapillary before and 1 day, 2 weeks, and 1 month after surgery (p=0.3345). No statistically significant differences between preoperative and postoperative retinal thickness were detected for the area of macula and optic nerve (all p>0.5). Conclusions. The vessel density at the parafoveal and perifoveal regions decreased at 1 day after SMILE with no effect on the visual acuity and relieved within 2 weeks. Decreased ocular blood flow in response to the spike in IOP may account for such changes.
Model‐Predictive Optimization for Pure Electric Vehicle during a Vehicle‐Following Process
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Zhuan Xiangtao
Published: May 2019

In this paper, a pure electric vehicle (PEV) equipped with adaptive cruise control (ACC) system is studied for a vehicle‐following process. And a multiobjective optimization algorithm for ACC system is proposed in a model‐predictive control (MPC) framework for optimizing safety, tracking capability, driving comfortability and energy consumption. The longitudinal dynamics of the ACC system are modeled, which not only considers the vehicle spacing and speed, but also introduces the acceleration and the change rate of acceleration (jerk) for the host vehicle and fully considers the influence of the acceleration of the leading vehicle. The improvement of driving comfortability and the reduction of energy consumption are achieved mainly by optimizing the acceleration and jerk of host vehicle. Some optimized reference trajectories are introduced to MPC for improving driving comfortability of host vehicle. The performances of the multiobjective upper level algorithm combined with the PEV model are evaluated for three representative scenarios. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
The Place of Reductive Surgery in the Management of Gestational Ulcerative Gigantomastia: A Case Report at Sourô Sanou Teaching Hospital
Authors: Roland Somé Ollo , Cyprien Zaré , Damien Konkobo , Adama Dembélé , Valentin Konségré , Nassirou Yabré , Moussa Bambara
Published: May 2019

Introduction. Gestational gigantomastia is a rare benign disease of unknown cause. We report a case of bilateral gigantomastia in pregnancy in order to locate the place of reductive surgery in its care which is quite controversial. Case. A 25-year-old woman gravida 2 para 1 was referred for an exaggerated bilateral breast enlargement at 32-week gestation. The examination showed bilateral giant breasts with collateral venous circulation and trophic changes marked by the necrosis of the distal third of the mammary skin involving the nipple-areolar complex. She underwent a biopsy of the ulcerative breast tissue, and the histology report did not show a malignant cell. After active foetal lung maturation and induced delivery, a breast reductive surgery with nipple plasty was performed 21 days postpartum. The postoperative course was marked by a period of lymphangitis. The cosmetic and psychological result was satisfactory at 6 months and at 18 months. Conclusion. Gestational gigantomastia is a benign disease that can simulate carcinomatous mastitis. The breast reductive plasty keeps its place in our context.
A Case of Acute Life-Threatening Pulmonary Hemorrhage from Synthetic Cannabinoid Abuse
Authors: Imtiaz Muhammad , Saha Biplab , Sana Ullah Uzma , Saha Aditi
Published: May 2019

We report a case of alveolar hemorrhage secondary to inhalation of synthetic cannabinoid. The patient developed hemoptysis and respiratory failure 48 hours after the episode. Alveolar hemorrhage from synthetic cannabinoid use is a rare entity that has been reported only thrice previously. The unique feature of this case was that the initial urine and blood toxicology screens were negative for cannabinoids and the diagnosis was confirmed via detection of serum metabolites of a synthetic cannabinoid.
A Novel Rotablator Technique (Low-Speed following High-Speed Rotational Atherectomy) Can Achieve Larger Lumen Gain: Evaluation Using Optimal Frequency Domain Imaging
Authors: Yamamoto Takanobu , Yada Sawako , Matsuda Yuji , Otani Hirofumi , Yoshikawa Shunji , Sasaoka Taro , Hatano Yu , Umemoto Tomoyuki , Ueshima Daisuke , Maejima Yasuhiro , Hirao Kenzo , Ashikaga Takashi
Published: May 2019

Background. While the evaluation of burr speed was discussed regarding platelet aggregation, the association between platform speed and acute lumen gain of rotational atherectomy remains unknown. Methods. Through the evaluation of the potential of low-speed rotational atherectomy (LSRA) in in-vitro experiments, minimum lumen diameter (MLD) and minimum lumen area (MLA) after conventional high-speed rotational atherectomy (HSRA group) and those after LSRA following HSRA (LSRA+HSRA group) treated by 1.5 mm burrs were measured by optical frequency domain imaging (OFDI) in 30 consecutive human lesions. Results. The in-vitro experiments demonstrated that MLD and MLA after LSRA+HSRA were significantly larger (MLD: LSRA+HSRA=1.50 ±0.05 mm, HSRA= 1.43 ±0.05 mm, p=0.015; MLA: LSRA+HSRA= 1.90 ±0.17 mm2, HSRA= 1.71±0.11 mm2, and p= 0.037), requiring more crossing attempts (LSRA= 134 ±20 times, HSRA= 72 ±11 times, and p< 0.001). In human studies, there was no significance in reference vessel diameter and lesion length before the procedure between two groups. MLDs after LSRA+HSRA were significantly larger than those in HSRA (LSRA+HSRA= 1.22 ±0.16 mm, HSRA= 1.07 ±0.14 mm, and p= 0.0078), while MLAs after LSRA+HSRA tended to be larger (LSRA+HSRA= 1.79 ±0.51 mm2, HSRA= 1.55 ±0.47 mm2, and p= 0.19). There was no significance in the occurrence of in-hospital complication, including slow flow or no reflow, major dissection, and procedural myocardial infarction, between LSRA+HSRA and HSRA. Conclusions. LSRA can achieve larger lumen gain compared, whereas HSRA can pass calcified lesions easily. Combination of LSRA and HSRA is a safe and feasible strategy for severely calcified lesions in clinical practice.
Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Preterm Infants with White Matter Injury Using a New MRI Classification
Authors: Martinez-Biarge Miriam , Groenendaal Floris , Kersbergen Karina J. , Benders Manon J.N.L. , Foti Francesca , van Haastert Ingrid C. , Cowan Frances M. , de Vries Linda S.
Published: May 2019

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a new MRI scoring system for preterm non-haemorrhagic white matter injury (WMI), derived from the analysis of the natural evolution of WMI throughout the neonatal period until term-equivalent age, can be used for outcome prediction. Methods: Eighty-two infants <36 weeks gestation with WMI diagnosed from sequential cranial ultrasound and confirmed on neonatal MRI were retrospectively included. WMI was classified in four grades of severity. Neurodevelopmental data at a median age of 24 months were analysed. Results: In 74 surviving children WMI severity was strongly associated with the presence and severity of cerebral palsy (CP) and other neurodevelopmental impairments (Spearman’s rank correlation 0.88, p < 0.001). Only 3 children with grade I WMI (9%) developed CP (all ambulant) and their developmental scores were not different to those from the controls, although they started walking significantly later (p = 0.036). Of the 6 children with grade II, 83% developed CP (mild in most), whereas 91% of the 34 children with grade III had CP (moderate-severe in 76%) and all had some degree of neurodevelopmental impairment. Three children with grade III WMI did not develop CP; their imaging showed, in contrast to children who developed CP, that the cysts did not affect the corticospinal tracts; also, myelin in the posterior limb of the internal capsule appeared normal in 2 children and suboptimal in 1. Conclusions: This MRI scoring system for preterm WMI can be used to predict neurodevelopmental outcomes. Individualized assessment of the site of lesions and the progression of myelination improves prognostic accuracy.
Supravalvular Aortic Stenosis Caused by a Familial Chromosome 7 Inversion Disrupting the ELN Gene Uncovered by Whole-Genome Sequencing
Authors: Pons Linda , Bouvagnet Patrice , Bakloul Mohamed , Di Filippo Sylvie , Buisson Adrien , Chatron Nicolas , Labalme Audrey , Metton Olivier , Mitchell Julia , Diguet Flavie , Rollat-Farnier Pierre-Antoine , Sanlaville Damien , Schluth-Bolard Caroline
Published: May 2019

Apparently, balanced chromosomal rearrangements usually have no phenotypic consequences for the carrier. However, in some cases, they may be associated with an abnormal phenotype. We report herein the case of a 4-year-old boy presenting with clinically isolated supravalvular aortic stenosis (SVAS). No chromosomal imbalance was detected by array CGH. The karyotype showed a balanced paracentric chromosome 7 inversion. Breakpoint characterization using paired-end whole-genome sequencing (WGS) revealed an ELN gene disruption in intron 1, accounting for the phenotype. Family study showed that the inversion was inherited, with incomplete penetrance. To our knowledge, this is the first case of a disruption of the ELN gene characterized by WGS. It contributes to refine the genotype-phenotype correlation in ELN disruption. Although this disruption is a rare etiology of SVAS, it cannot be detected by the diagnostic tests usually performed, such as array CGH or sequencing methods (Sanger, panel, or exome sequencing). With the future perspective of WGS as a diagnostic tool, it will be important to include a structural variation analysis in order to detect balanced rearrangements and gene disruption.
Identification key for the Brazilian species and subspecies of the family Ilyocryptidae (Crustacea, Branchiopoda, Anomopoda)
Authors: Sousa Francisco Diogo Rocha , Elmoor-Loureiro Lourdes Maria Abdu
Published: May 2019

In recent years, an increase in knowledge about the diversity and biogeography of Brazilian Cladocera fauna has been evident. To keep up with these changes, it is opportune to carry out an update of the taxonomy and biogeography for the main cladoceran groups. Since 2008, some progress has been observed in Ilyocryptidae, with reports of four new taxa. In this study, an updated checklist of Ilyocryptidae from Brazil is provided, with a diagnosis for each cited taxon, as well as an identification key. Some of these taxa are considered rare; however, this issue might be an artifact of sampling. As this is the first in a series of papers compiling current information about Brazilian Cladocera, an identification key to orders and families occurring in Brazil is also provided.
What do we know about Neotropical trap‑nesting bees? Synopsis about their nest biology and taxonomy
Authors: Costa Camila Cristina Ferreira da , Gonçalves Rodrigo Barbosa
Published: May 2019

Cavity-nesting bees are enigmatic because they are difficult to observe in the wild, hence trap-nests (man-made cavities) provide the means by which these bees may be studied. Trap-nests is an efficient methodology to study these bees and are common worldwide. These traps have been used for a variety of reasons, including inventories, to examine pollen load, to study habitat disturbance, and bee conservation. However Neotropical trap-nesting bees’ taxonomy and biology are still poorly known and here we provide a review about these subjects. We searched for trap-nest bee studies in the Neotropical Region using Google Scholar and ISI Web of Science at any time in the past to December 2017. We found 109 independent studies, most of which were from Brazil (87 studies), followed by Argentina (10 studies), and other countries had fewer than five studies each. A total of 140 species, 24 genera, 10 tribes and three subfamilies were reported in trap-nests. Nest architecture was described for only 49 species. Taxonomy is only well-known for 14 genera, somewhat known for seven and is essentially unavailable for three genera. Construction material, closing plug and cell shape are similar among species in the same tribes and genera. Vestibular and intercalary cells, and the preliminary plug are variable, even at the specific level. Apinae is the most studied group with available data for all genera recorded in trap-nests. Colletinae is the least-studied group and nothing is known for their nesting biology. Megachilinae is intermediate, with some studies of taxonomy and nesting. We suggest that further trap-nest studies should provide more detailed information on nest architecture and construction materials, including explicit mention of structures that are absent. All Neotropical bees need more taxonomic studies, but some, such as Hylaeus and Megachile, require more attention since Hylaeus is essentially unknown and Megachile is very common on trap-nests.
Replication-Independent Histone Turnover Underlines the Epigenetic Homeostasis in Adult Heart
Authors: Li Yumei , Ai Shanshan , Yu Xianhong , Li Chen , Li Xin , Yue Yanzhu , Wei Yusheng , Li Chuan-Yun , He Aibin
Published: May 2019

Rationale:

Replication-independent histone turnover has been linked to cis-regulatory chromatin domains in cultured cell lines, but its molecular underpinnings and functional relevance in adult mammalian tissues remain yet to be defined.

Objective:

We investigated regulatory functions of replication-independent histone turnover in chromatin states of postmitotic cardiomyocytes from adult mouse heart.

Methods and Results:

We used H2B-GFP (histone 2B-green fluorescent protein) fusion protein pulse-and-chase approaches to measure histone turnover rate in mouse cardiomyocytes. Surprisingly, we found that the short histone half-life (≈2 weeks) contrasted dramatically with the long lifetime of cardiomyocytes, and rapid histone turnover regions corresponded to cis-regulatory domains of heart genes. Interestingly, recruitment of chromatin modifiers, including Polycomb EED (embryonic ectoderm development), was positively correlated with histone turnover rate at enhancers. Mechanistically, through directly interacting with and engaging the BAF (BRG1 [Brahma-related gene-1]-associated factor) complex for nucleosome exchange for stereotyped histone modifications from the free histone pool, EED augmented histone turnover to restrain enhancer overactivation.

Conclusions:

We propose a model in which replication-independent histone turnover reinforces robustness of local chromatin states for adult tissue homeostasis.
Endothelial PPARγ (Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor-γ) Protects From Angiotensin II–Induced Endothelial Dysfunction in Adult Offspring Born From Pregnancies Complicated by Hypertension
Authors: Nair Anand R. , Silva Sebastiao D. , Agbor Larry N. , Wu Jing , Nakagawa Pablo , Mukohda Masashi , Lu Ko-Ting , Sandgren Jeremy A. , Pierce Gary L. , Santillan Mark K. , Grobe Justin L. , Sigmund Curt D.
Published: May 2019

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy associated with vascular dysfunction and cardiovascular risk to offspring. We hypothesize that endothelial PPARγ (peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-γ) provides cardiovascular protection in offspring from pregnancies complicated by hypertension. C57BL/6J dams were bred with E-V290M sires, which express a dominant-negative allele of PPARγ selectively in the endothelium. Arginine vasopressin was infused throughout gestation. Vasopressin elevated maternal blood pressure at gestational day 14 to 15 and urinary protein at day 17 consistent. Systolic blood pressure and vasodilation responses to acetylcholine were similar in vasopressin-exposed offspring compared to offspring from control pregnancies. We treated offspring with a subpressor dose of angiotensin II to test if hypertension during pregnancy predisposes offspring to hypertension. Male and female angiotensin II–treated E-V290M offspring from vasopressin-exposed but not control pregnancy exhibited significant impairment in acetylcholine-induced relaxation in carotid artery. Endothelial dysfunction in angiotensin II–treated E-V290M vasopressin-exposed offspring was attenuated by tempol, an effect which was more prominent in male offspring. Nrf2 (nuclear factor-E2-related factor) protein levels were significantly elevated in aorta from male E-V290M offspring, but not female offspring compared to controls. Blockade of ROCK (Rho-kinase) signaling and incubation with a ROCK2-specific inhibitor improved endothelial function in both male and female E-V290M offspring from vasopressin-exposed pregnancy. Our data suggest that interference with endothelial PPARγ in offspring from vasopressin-exposed pregnancies increases the risk for endothelial dysfunction on exposure to a cardiovascular stressor in adulthood. This implies that endothelial PPARγ provides protection to cardiovascular stressors in offspring of a pregnancy complicated by hypertension and perhaps in preeclampsia.
The Multiple Publics of a Transnational Activist: Abdürreşid İbrahim, Pan-Asianism, and the Creation of Islam in Japan
Authors: Brandenburg Ulrich
Published: May 2019

The Russian Muslim Abdürreşid İbrahim (1857-1944) was not only a successful journalist and reform-minded Islamic scholar. He was also a transnational activist who became influential in different local contexts, notably Russia, the Ottoman Empire, and Japan. During his four-month stay in Japan in 1909, he cooperated with Japanese pan-Asianists and helped found the first pan-Asianist society, which focused on building ties between Japan and Asia’s Muslims. Researchers have predominantly regarded İbrahim as a pioneering figure in an emerging anti-Western coalition of pan-Islamists and pan-Asianists, or as a Muslim missionary aspiring to convert Japan to Islam. This article will demonstrate, however, that İbrahim’s pro-Japanese pan-Asianism, as well as his missionary zeal, should both be read as flexible stances in reaction to the expectations of different publics. An ostentatious pan-Asianism and the exaggeration of his missionary success equally served the transnational activist to attract attention and assert his importance in varying local contexts.
Constructing a Textual Tradition: Salafī Commentaries on al-ʿAqīda al-ṭaḥāwiyya
Authors: Shiliwala Wasim
Published: May 2019

Although the Salafī movement prides itself on its doctrinal purity, it has recently embraced the creed of Abū Jaʿfar al-Ṭaḥāwī (d. 321/933), which diverges from Salafī beliefs on a few significant topics such as the nature of faith. This paper accounts for this phenomenon by examining the scholarly production around the text, and by considering the strategies employed by modern commentators to deal with problematic lines. I argue that for the Salafī movement, the issues found in this text are outweighed by the polemical imperative of constructing a Salafī textual tradition.
Two species of Agaricus subg. Minoriopsis from Mexico
Authors: CHEN JIE , CALLAC PHILIPPE , LLARENA-HERNÁNDEZ RÉGULO CARLOS , GERARDO MATA GERARDO
Published: May 2019

Agaricus is a species-rich genus with more than 500 species over the world. Recent studies on tropical Agaricus revealed new tropical clades and a revised taxonomic system was consequently developed. Agaricus subg. Minoriopsis, a sixth subgenus was recently added, comprising species exclusively from the Americas. The diversity of Agaricus is little studied in Mexico, despite this country has a long history in the consumption of wild edible fungi. In this paper, we introduce a new species A. guzmanii and a new record for A. globocystidiatus from Mexico based on morphological characteristics and molecular data. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that they belong to A. subg. Minoriopsis.