bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between TNF‐α G‐308A (rs1800629) polymorphism and susceptibility to chronic periodontitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Shi Liu‐Xia , Zhang Liu , Zhang Dong‐Lin , Zhou Jing‐Ping , Jiang Xue‐Juan , Jin Yue‐Long , Chang Wei‐Wei
Published: December 2020

Background and objective

Although the association between tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) G‐308A (rs1800629) polymorphism and chronic periodontitis (CP), chronic periodontitis with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DP) is assumed, results of this association have been contradictory. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between rs1800629 polymorphism and CP/DP susceptibility.

Methods

We searched for studies on PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, Chinese National Infrastructure, and WanFang databases. Study selection was performed using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria and fulfilled the PECO (participant, exposure, comparison, and outcome) format. The relationship between rs1800629 polymorphism and CP/DP susceptibility was evaluated by the effect summary odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Allele, dominant, and recessive genetic models were computed to assess the strength of the association.

Results

A total of 25 case‐control studies were included in the analysis. In the Asian population, TNF‐α rs1800629 polymorphism was found to be significantly associated with CP in the overall analyses and for all genetic contrasts, while no significant risks were found among Caucasian populations for all genetic contrasts. The TNF‐α rs1800629 polymorphism was also associated with increased DP risk in Asians under the fixed‐effects model, but not in the recessive comparison.

Conclusion

The meta‐analysis suggested that TNF‐α rs1800629 polymorphism might affect the risk of CP and DP, particularly in individuals of Asian descent.
Oral microbiota and atherothrombotic carotid plaque vulnerability in periodontitis patients. A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Brun Adrian , Nuzzo Alexandre , Prouvost Bastien , Diallo Devy , Hamdan Sandrella , Meseguer Elena , Guidoux Céline , Lavallée Philippa , Amarenco Pierre , Lesèche Guy , Bouchard Philippe , Michel Jean‐Baptiste , Rangé Hélène
Published: December 2020

Background

An increased risk of atherothrombotic vascular events has been reported in periodontitis patients. Periodontitis is associated with dysbiotic subgingival biofilms and bacteremia.

Objective

We hypothesized (a) that the oral microbiome is associated with the carotid microbiome and (b) that periodontitis could contribute to plaque vulnerability. The aim of this study was to determine the associations between periodontitis, the carotid microbiome, and the local innate immune response in carotid atherothrombotic plaques vulnerable to rupture.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 45 patients admitted for carotid endarterectomy underwent a preoperative periodontal examination. The volume of intraplaque hemorrhage reflected by the hemoglobin level released in carotid‐conditioned media was considered as a criterion of carotid plaque vulnerability. Levels of antibodies against periodontal bacteria were determined in sera. The signature of the oral microbiota was assessed by microbial whole‐genome sequencing, nested PCR, and immunostaining in carotid plaque samples. Markers of neutrophil recruitment (leukotriene B4), neutrophil activation (myeloperoxidase, defensins), and cytokines were measured in carotid‐conditioned media and/or plasma.

Results

All patients exhibited periodontitis. One hundred and forty‐four bacterial genera were detected in the carotid microbiome. WhileStreptococcuswas found in 84% of the carotid samples, periodontitis‐associated genera were detected in 21%.P. gingivalisDNA and gingipains were also identified in carotid samples. There were significant inverse correlations between periodontal attachment loss/serum anti‐P. gingivalisImmunoglobulin A and cytokine inhibiting neutrophils (allP < .01). There were also significant positive correlations between lipopolysaccharides, myeloperoxidase/human neutrophil peptides1‐3, and hemoglobin levels (allP < .01).

Conclusions

In patients at risk of stroke, the carotid plaque microbiome was highly diverse and compatible with an oral origin. Periodontitis was significantly associated with neutrophil activation markers and plaque vulnerability to rupture.
A framework infrageneric classification ofCarex(Cyperaceae) and its organizing principles
Authors:   Global Carex Group, Roalson Eric H. , Jiménez‐Mejías Pedro , Hipp Andrew L. , Benítez‐Benítez Carmen , Bruederle Leo P. , Chung Kyong‐Sook , Escudero Marcial , Ford Bruce A. , Ford Kerry , Gebauer Sebastian , Gehrke Berit , Hahn Marlene , Hayat Muhammad Qasim , Hoffmann Mathias H. , Jin Xiao‐Feng , Kim Sangtae , Larridon Isabel , Léveillé‐Bourret Étienne , Lu Yi‐Fei , Luceño Modesto , Maguilla Enrique , Márquez‐Corro Jose Ignacio , Martín‐Bravo Santiago , Masaki Tomomi , Míguez Mónica , Naczi Robert F. C. , Reznicek Anton A. , Spalink Daniel , Starr Julian R. , Uzma  , Villaverde Tamara , Waterway Marcia J. , Wilson Karen L. , Zhang Shu‐Ren
Published: December 2020

Phylogenetic studies ofCarexL. (Cyperaceae) have consistently demonstrated that most subgenera and sections are para‐ or polyphyletic. Yet, taxonomists continue to use subgenera and sections inCarexclassification. Why? The GlobalCarexGroup (GCG) here takes the position that the historical and continued use of subgenera and sections serves to (i) organize our understanding of lineages inCarex, (ii) create an identification mechanism to break the ~2000 species ofCarexinto manageable groups and stimulate its study, and (iii) provide a framework to recognize morphologically diagnosable lineages withinCarex. Unfortunately, the current understanding of phylogenetic relationships inCarexis not yet sufficient for a global reclassification of the genus within a Linnean infrageneric (sectional) framework. Rather than leavingCarexclassification in its current state, which is misleading and confusing, we here take the intermediate steps of implementing the recently revised subgeneric classification and using a combination of informally named clades and formally named sections to reflect the current state of our knowledge. This hybrid classification framework is presented in an order corresponding to a linear arrangement of the clades on a ladderized phylogeny, largely based on the recent phylogenies published by the GCG. It organizesCarexinto six subgenera, which are, in turn, subdivided into 62 formally named Linnean sections plus 49 informal groups. This framework will serve as a roadmap for research onCarexphylogeny, enabling further development of a complete reclassification by presenting relevant morphological and geographical information on clades where possible and standardizing the use of formal sectional names.
Economic effects of predation by scaup on baitfish and sportfish farms
Authors: Engle Carole R. , Clements Stephen , Dorr Brian S. , Davis J. Brian , Roy Luke A. , Kelly Anita M.
Published: December 2020

Fish‐eating birds have been found to consume baitfish and sportfish raised on farms in the United States. Understanding the on‐farm economic effects of such wildlife conflicts is essential for wildlife management agencies to make informed decisions. Lesser scaup, while not widely considered a fish‐eating bird, will consume farmed fish. Baitfish and sportfish farms in Arkansas (the major baitfish and sportfish producing‐state in the U.S.) were surveyed to gather data on the cost of protecting farm crops from scaup. The values of lost sales revenue from the various species of baitfish and sportfish consumed by scaup were estimated based on a concomitant field study on the abundance, distribution, and dietary habits of scaup that visited Arkansas baitfish and sportfish farms during winters of 2016–2017 and 2017–2018. Economic effects were estimated for golden shiner, fathead minnow, sportfish, and goldfish farms. Total annual costs to scare birds from baitfish and sportfish farms were $622 ± 742 per ha. The greatest components of bird‐scaring costs were manpower (56%), truck usage (32%), levee upkeep for vehicle access to scare birds (9%), firearms and ammunition (2%), and pyrotechnic devices (1%). The combined annual economic losses, calculated as reduced revenue from fish losses to scaup plus expenditures to scare birds, averaged $683/ha for golden shiners, $695/ha for fathead minnows, $663/ha for sportfish, and $673/ha for goldfish across the two study years. The fish losses to scaup alone averaged $1.06 million per year ($0.09 million in Year 1 and $2.03 million in Year 2) for the Arkansas baitfish industry. Total direct negative economic effects on the Arkansas baitfish industry were estimated to be, on average, $5.5 million per year ($4.6 in Year 1 and $6.3 million in Year 2).
The Gubernacular Canal…
Authors: Radia Ria , Loughlin Amanda , Makdissi Jimmy
Published: December 2020

The Gubernacular Canal is an anatomical structure that can be seen on Cone Beam Computed Tomography, connecting the dental lamina of an unerupted tooth the overlying gingivae at the site of normal eruption. We present the case of a transposed canine with an associated Gubernacular Canal seen on CBCT. With the use of CBCT becoming more prevalent, we would like to highlight the presence and significance of this structure, as clinicians are likely to encounter it on CBCT.
Epidural versus general anesthesia for open pyloromyotomy in infants: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Opfermann Philipp , Wiener Caspar , Schmid Werner , Zadrazil Markus , Metzelder Martin , Kimberger Oliver , Marhofer Peter
Published: December 2020

Background

Thoracic epidural anesthesia for open infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis surgery is a controversial issue in the presence of little comparative data.

Aims

To compare this approach to general anesthesia for desaturation events (≤90% oxygen saturation) and absolute values of minimal oxygen saturation, minimal heart frequency, operating‐room occupancy time, and durations of surgery in a retrospective study design.

Methods

Data were retrieved for patients with infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis managed by thoracic epidurals under sedation or general anesthesia with rapid sequence induction between 01/2007 and 12/2017. Oxygen saturation and heart rate were analyzed over eight 5‐minutes intervals relative to the start of anesthesia / sedation (four‐time intervals) and before discharge of the patient from the operating room (four‐time intervals). Fisher's exact tests and mixed model two‐way analysis of variance for repeated measures were employed for intergroup comparisons.

Results

The epidural and general anesthesia groups included 69 and 32 evaluable infants, respectively. Patients managed under epidural anesthesia had cumulatively higher minimimal mean (SD) oxygen saturation values (98.2 [2.6] % versus 96.6 [5.2] %, p < 0.001) and lower minimal mean (SD) heart rate values (127.9 [15.0] beats per minute versus 140.7 [17.2] beats per minute, p < 0.001) over time. Similarly, the frequency of desaturation events (defined as ≤90% oxygen saturation) was significantly lower for these patients during the period of 5 minutes after induction of sedation or general anesthesia (odds ratio 7.4 [2.1–25.9]; p = 0.001) and during the subsequent period of five minutes (odds ratio 6.2 [1.1–33.9]; p = 0.031). One case of prolonged respiratory weaning was observed in the general anesthesia group. The mean (SD) operating‐room occupancy was 61.9 (16.6) minutes for the epidural anesthesia group versus 73.3 (22.2) minutes for the general anesthesia group (p = 0.005) as a result of shorter emergence from sedation.

Conclusions

In our series, maintaining spontaneous breathing with minimal airway manipulation in patients undergoing open repair of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis under single‐shot epidural anesthesia resulted in fewer desaturation events ≤90% than general anesthesia. In addition, this approach seems to result in shorter turnover times in the operating room.
Natural variation in the promoter of GsERD15B affects salt tolerance in soybean
Authors: Jin Ting , Sun Yangyang , Shan Zhong , He Jianbo , Wang Ning , Gai Junyi , Li Yan
Published: December 2020

Salt stress has detrimental effects on crop growth and yield, and the area of salt‐affected land is increasing. Soybean is a major source of vegetable protein, oil and feed, but considered as a salt‐sensitive crop. Cultivated soybean (Glycine max) is domesticated from wild soybean (G. soja) but lost considerable amount of genetic diversity during the artificial selection. Therefore, it is important to exploit the gene pool of wild soybean. In this study, we identified 34 salt‐tolerant accessions from wild soybean germplasm and found that a 7‐bp insertion/deletion (InDel) in the promoter of GsERD15B (early responsive to dehydration 15B) significantly affects the salt tolerance of soybean. GsERD15B encodes a protein with transcriptional activation function and contains a PAM2 domain to mediate its interaction with poly(A)‐binding (PAB) proteins. The 7‐bp deletion in GsERD15B promoter enhanced the salt tolerance of soybean, with increased up‐regulation of GsERD15B, two GmPAB genes, the known stress‐related genes including GmABI1, GmABI2, GmbZIP1, GmP5CS, GmCAT4, GmPIP1:6, GmMYB84 and GmSOS1 in response to salt stress. We propose that natural variation in GsERD15B promoter affects soybean salt tolerance, and overexpression of GsERD15B enhanced salt tolerance probably by increasing the expression levels of genes related to ABA‐signalling, proline content, catalase peroxidase, dehydration response and cation transport.
Dark cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers are formed in the epidermis of Fitzpatrick skin types I/II and VI in vivo after exposure to solar‐simulated radiation
Authors: Fajuyigbe Damilola , Douki Thierry , van Dijk Arjan , Sarkany Robert P. E. , Young Antony R.
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Unlike “light” cylobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPD) formed during ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure, dark CPD (dCPD) are formed afterwards. Studies have attributed this to delayed melanin sensitization. There are no data on the role of melanin in dCPD formation in human skin.

Methods and Results

Volunteers of Fitzpatrick skin types (FST I/II vs. VI) were exposed to erythemally equivalent doses of solar simulated radiation. CPD were assessed by semi‐quantitative immunostaining in whole epidermis and in three epidermal zones, and quantitative HPLC‐MS/MS (whole epidermis) at different times post‐exposure up to 24 hr. A CPD peak that appeared at 1–2 hr post‐exposure in whole epidermis measurements, in all skin types, demonstrated dCPD. However, both dCPD and light CPD were absent in the basal layer of FST VI with the greatest melanin concentration. Modelling the whole epidermis data showed no differences between the repair kinetics of FST I/II and VI.

Discussion

Melanin may be a sensitizer or “sunscreen” for dCPD depending on its location and concentration. Previous CPD repair studies in human skin have assumed peak CPD immediately after UVR exposure and so have overestimated total repair.
Tick‐virus interactions: Current understanding and future perspectives
Authors: Hart Charles Edward , Thangamani Saravanan
Published: December 2020

Ticks are the primary vector of arboviruses in temperate climates worldwide. They are both the vector of these pathogens to humans and an integral component of the viral sylvatic cycle. Understanding the tick‐pathogen interaction provides information about the natural maintenance of these pathogens and informs the development of countermeasures against human infection. In this review, we discuss currently available information on tick‐viral interactions within the broader scope of general tick immunology. While the tick immune response to several pathogens has been studied extensively, minimal work centres on responses to viral infection. This is largely due to the high pathogenicity of tick‐borne viruses; this necessitates high‐containment laboratories or low‐pathogenicity substitute viruses. This has biased most research towards tick‐borne flaviviruses. More work is required to fully understand the role of tick‐virus interaction in sylvatic cycling and transmission of diverse tick‐borne viruses.
Characteristics of follicular dynamics and reproductive hormone profiles during oestrous cycles of jennies over an entire year
Authors: Li Nan , Yang Feng , Yu Jie , Yang Weigang , Wu Shuaishuai , Ma Jinliang , Liu Bing , Zhang Ruitao , Zhou Xiangshan , Losinno Luis , Miragaya Marcelo H. , Zeng Shenming
Published: December 2020

Although donkeys have been domesticated for over 6,000 years, limited information is available concerning their reproductive physiology, especially under intensive rearing conditions. The aims of this experiment were to study follicular dynamics and reproductive hormone variation in jennies during the inter‐ovulatory interval in different seasons. A total of 12 continuous cycles of six Dezhou Black (DB) donkey jennies were examined in four different seasons. The diameters of the six largest follicles of each jenny were measured daily by ultrasonography, and blood samples were collected at fixed times for reproductive hormone assays. The results demonstrated that most jennies displayed regular oestrous cycles in all seasons. The follicular dynamics were similar in Spring, Summer and Winter, while the jennies had longer oestrous cycles with delayed follicular deviation and dominant selection in Autumn. At least two follicular waves were observed in each oestrous cycle, throughout the study, but two jennies presented oestrous cycles with three follicular waves in the Autumn. The numbers of follicular waves were consistent with the numbers of FSH surges. Oestrous characteristics of the jennies in a large herd were also analysed. The results showed that the rates of regular oestrous cycles were 83.1% (265/319), 89.6% (215/240), 80.2% (235/293) and 77.1% (178/231), with 26.4% (70/265), 19.5% (42/215), 22.1% (52/235) and 23.0% (41/178) double ovulation rates in Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter, respectively. The results presented may be useful for donkey farms in the design of breeding strategies.
Translation and adaption of the Yale Swallow Protocol for a Danish intensive care setting
Authors: Nielsen Anne Højager , Gow Neil Duncan , Svenningsen Helle
Published: December 2020

Background

Dysphagia related to intubation affects almost one in five patients in the intensive care unit; it may vary due to fluctuations in cerebral status and fatigue and lead to pneumonia, re‐intubation and increased mortality. Taking care of patients' nutritional needs is an integral part of nursing and nurses must therefore be able to assess risk of dysphagia at all hours. However, Danish validated methods for use in the critically ill patient population are lacking.

Aim

To translate and adapt the Yale Swallow Protocol method for implementation in a Danish intensive care unit setting.

Methods

Translation and adaption followed WHO's recommendations for translation and adaption of instruments. Face validity of the Danish version was evaluated in four group interviews. These were digitally recorded, transcribed and analysed using deductive content analysis. All interviewees gave informed consent.

Findings

The translated version of the Yale Swallow Protocol was easy to understand, although nurses needed to have the method explained and needed training in using the method. In addition, the Yale Swallow Protocol must be adapted to local practice in terms of identifying patients at risk of dysphagia and deciding where to document results of the screening.

Conclusion

The translated version of the Yale Swallow Protocol proved conceptually and culturally sound and acceptable to intensive care unit nurses. Implementation should be followed by theoretical and practical training to build a nursing vocabulary relating to dysphagia and strengthen nurses' sensitivity to clinical manifestations consistent with dysphagia.
Privacy violations and procedural justice in the United States prisons and jails
Authors: Ingel Sydney , Richards‐Karamarkovich Arden , Bietsch Stephanie , Rudes Danielle S.
Published: December 2020

Through constitutional amendments and case law, the United States citizens receive privacy protections. These same protections do not exist for individuals incarcerated in prisons and jails. Instead, their privacy rights are regularly replaced by larger institutional concerns for security, safety, and control. Such privacy violation measures may include electronic surveillance, recording of phone calls, opening/reading of mail, and searches of their person, cell, and property. Although it is expected that incarcerated individuals have fewer privacy rights than nonincarcerated citizens, some privacy violations may be perceived as procedurally unjust due to their severity and infringement upon incarcerated individuals' rights to dignity and respect. This has implications for the well‐being of incarcerated individuals, the legitimacy of correctional officers, and as a result, the potential safety and security of institutions.
Primary sclerosing cholangitis as an independent risk factor for cytomegalovirus infection after liver transplant
Authors: Rashidi‐Alavijeh Jassin , Crämer Jens Christoph , Sauter Helena Louisa , Willuweit Katharina , Straub Katja , Wedemeyer Heiner , Herzer Kerstin
Published: December 2020

Background

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is one of the most common infectious complications after solid organ transplant; it is associated with morbidity and mortality and with many direct and indirect effects. However, monitoring and therapeutic procedures are very heterogeneous across treatment centers. Additionally, factors that place patients at risk of CMV infection are poorly defined.

Methods

Clinical and demographic data from 833 LT recipients and their donors were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analysis were applied. CMV infection was detected by quantitative nucleic acid testing with a lower limit of detection of 40 IU/mL.

Results

In total, 192 of 833 patients (23%) experienced at least one episode of CMV infection after LT; CMV infection occurred to a large extent during the first year after transplant (70%). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that CMV donor‐recipient risk constellation (OR 2.05, 95% CI) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) before LT (OR 3.76, 95% CI) are independent risk factors for CMV infection after LT.

Conclusion

Patients with high‐risk serostatus, PSC, or both should be monitored more thoroughly and should receive prolonged prophylaxis against CMV infection.
Developing single-layer metal-oxide-semiconductor quantum dots for diagnostic qubits
Authors: Hong Yanxue , Ramanayaka A. N. , Stein Ryan , Stewart M. D. , Pomeroy J. M.
Published: December 2020

The design, fabrication, and characterization of single metal gate layer, metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) quantum dot devices robust against dielectric breakdown are presented as prototypes for future diagnostic qubits. These devices were developed as a preliminary solution to a longer term goal of a qubit platform for intercomparison between materials or for in-line diagnostics and to provide a testbed for establishing classical measurements predictive of coherence performance. For this stage, we seek a robust MOS design that is compatible with wafer and chip architectures, which has a reduced process overhead and is sufficiently capable of challenging and advancing our measurement capabilities. In this report, we present our initial batch of silicon MOS devices using a single gate layer, which have not exhibited any failures with gate voltage excursions >10 V but do exhibit the reduced electrostatic control expected of a single gate layer design. We observe quantum dot formation, capacitive charge sensing between channels, and reasonable effective electron temperatures that enable spin qubit studies. The costs and benefits of the trade-off between device performance and fabrication efficiency will be discussed, as well as opportunities for future improvements.
Increasing Meal Frequency in Isoenergetic Conditions Does Not Affect Body Composition Change and Appetite During Weight Gain in Japanese Athletes
Authors: Taguchi Motoko , Hara Akiko , Murata Hiroko , Torii Suguru , Sako Takayuki
Published: December 2020

For athletes to gain body mass, especially muscle, an increase in energy consumption is necessary. To increase their energy intake, many athletes consume more meals, including supplementary meals or snacks. However, the influence of meal frequency on changes in body composition and appetite is unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of meal frequency on changes in body composition and appetite during weight gain in athletes through a well-controlled dietary intervention. Ten male collegiate rowers with weight gain goals were included in this study. The subjects were randomly classified into two groups, and dietary intervention was implemented using a crossover method. During the intervention period, all subjects were provided identical meals aimed to provide a positive energy balance. The meals were consumed at a frequency of either three times (regular frequency) or six times (high frequency) a day. Body composition was measured using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, and the visual analog scale was used for the evaluation of appetite. In both trials, body weight, fat-free mass, and fat mass significantly increased; however, an interaction (Trial × Time) was not observed. Visual analog scale did not vary between trials. Our data suggest that partitioning identical excess dietary intakes over three or six meals does not influence changes in body composition or appetite during weight gain in athletes.
Running at Increasing Intensities in the Heat Induces Transient Gut Perturbations
Authors: Wallett Alice M. , Etxebarria Naroa , Beard Nicole A. , Saunders Philo U. , Welvaert Marijke , Périard Julien D. , McKune Andrew J. , Pyne David B.
Published: December 2020

Purpose: The risk of exercise-induced endotoxemia is increased in the heat and is primarily attributable to changes in gut permeability resulting in the translocation of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) into the circulation. The purpose of this study was to quantify the acute changes in gut permeability and LPS translocation during submaximal continuous and high-intensity interval exercise under heat stress. Methods: A total of 12 well-trained male runners (age 37 [7] y, maximal oxygen uptake [VO2max] 61.0 [6.8] mL·min−1·kg−1) undertook 2 treadmill runs of 2 × 15-minutes at 60% and 75% VO2max and up to 8 × 1-minutes at 95% VO2max in HOT (34°C, 68% relative humidity) and COOL (18°C, 57% relative humidity) conditions. Venous blood samples were collected at the baseline, following each running intensity, and 1 hour postexercise. Blood samples were analyzed for markers of intestinal permeability (LPS, LPS binding protein, and intestinal fatty acid–binding protein). Results: The increase in LPS binding protein following each exercise intensity in the HOT condition was 4% (5.3 μg·mL−1, 2.4–8.4; mean, 95% confidence interval, P < .001), 32% (4.6 μg·mL−1, 1.8–7.4; P = .002), and 30% (3.0 μg·mL−1, 0.03–5.9; P = .047) greater than in the COOL condition. LPS was 69% higher than baseline following running at 75% VO2max in the HOT condition (0.2 endotoxin units·mL−1, 0.1–0.4; P = .011). Intestinal fatty acid–binding protein increased 43% (2.1 ng·mL−1, 0.1–4.2; P = .04) 1 hour postexercise in HOT compared with the COOL condition. Conclusions: Small increases in LPS concentration during exercise in the heat and subsequent increases in intestinal fatty acid–binding protein and LPS binding protein indicate a capacity to tolerate acute, transient intestinal disturbance in well-trained endurance runners.
Coaching Masters Athletes in Colombia
Authors: Belalcazar Catalina , Callary Bettina
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this article is to describe the evolution and influence of Masters Player-Coaches (MPCs) in the Asociación de Futbolistas Adultos Mayores del Tolima (in English: Masters Athletes’ Football Association of Tolima in Colombia, South America), a football league for men aged 60–70+ years. Historical forces shape a cultural backdrop that pervades football (soccer) and coaching and provides an understanding of how MPCs perceive themselves. After exploring the evolution and influence of the league, the authors uncover a peer-coaching approach in Asociación de Futbolistas Adultos Mayores del Tolima, described by the MPCs as Compañero Orientador. The authors link the importance of formally acknowledging the MPCs with their influence in fighting ageism, community building, and promoting lifelong sport. Further, MPCs provide high-quality Masters sport experiences, and their recognition supports a formal sporting structure in applying for local government grants to support the growing Masters context in Colombia.
The Efficacy of a Multicomponent Functional Fitness Program Based on Exergaming on Cognitive Functioning of Healthy Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Gouveia Élvio R. , Smailagic Asim , Ihle Andreas , Marques Adilson , Gouveia Bruna R. , Cameirão Mónica , Sousa Honorato , Kliegel Matthias , Siewiorek Daniel
Published: December 2020

Background and Objectives: Regular physical exercise can attenuate age-related cognitive decline. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a physical exercise multicomponent training based on exergames on cognitive functioning (CF) in older adults. Research Design and Methods: This randomized controlled trial included older adults aged 61–78. Participants were randomly allocated to an intervention group (IG; n = 15) or active control group (CG; n = 16). The IG was exposed to a combined training with traditional exercise and exergaming, twice a week over a period of 12 weeks. The CG performed only traditional sessions. CF was assessed by the Cognitive Telephone Screening Instrument. The time points for assessment were at zero (pretest), 12 (posttest), and 17 weeks (follow-up). Results: Active CG and IG increased from pretest to posttest in short-term memory (STM), long-term memory (LTM), and Cognitive Telephone Screening Instrument total score 1.98 > Z < 3.00, ps < .005, with moderately large positive effects (.36 > r < .54). A significant increase was seen from posttest to follow-up in STM, Z = 2.74, p = .006, and LTM, Z = 2.31, p < .021, only in IG. Across the two time periods posttest to follow-up, there were significant interaction effects between program type and time for STM (p = .022, ) and LTM (p = .004, ), demonstrating a more beneficial effect of the exergames intervention compared to the CG. Discussion and Implications: The integration of exergaming in a multicomponent functional fitness exercise might have the potential to maintain and improve CF (in particular, STM and LTM) in older adults.
Test–Retest Reliability of Plantar Flexion Torque Generation During a Functional Knee Extended Position in Older and Younger Men
Authors: Ugliara Lucas , Tufano James J. , Bottaro Martim , Vieira Amilton
Published: December 2020

Measuring ankle torque is of paramount importance. This study compared the test–retest reliability of the plantar flexion torque–generating capacity between older and younger men. Twenty-one older (68 ± 6 years) and 22 younger (25 ± 5 years) men were tested twice for maximal isometric plantar flexion. Peak torque (PT), rate of torque development, and contractile impulses (CI) were obtained from 0 to 50 ms (rate of torque development0–50; CI0–50) and from 100 to 200 ms (rate of torque development100–200; CI100–200). Typical error as the coefficient of variation (CVTE) and intraclass correlation coefficient were used to assess test–retest reliability. Student’s t test was applied to investigate systematic errors. The CVTE ratio was used for between-group comparisons. Only PT demonstrated acceptable reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥ .75 and CV ≤ 10%). Older men demonstrated greater CVTE than younger men for PT (ratio = 2.24), but lesser for rapid torque (ratio ≤ 0.84). Younger men demonstrated systematic error for PT (6.5%) and CI100–200 (−8.9%). In conclusion, older men demonstrated greater variability for maximal torque output, but lesser for rapid torque.
Study protocol epidemiology of inflammatory bowel disease in childhood and adolescence: a systematic review
Authors: Weidner Jens , Kern Ivana , Manuwald Ulf , Kugler Joachim , Rothe Ulrike
Published: December 2020

Introduction

The incidence and prevalence of chronic inflammatory bowel diseases in childhood and adolescence is increasing and varies internationally. The systematic literature review aims to describe international epidemiological trends of chronic inflammatory bowel diseases in the child and adolescence age. A period from 1970 to 2019 will be taken into account when searching for suitable studies as well as geographical differences in the development of incidences will be presented.

Methods and analysis

The literature databases PubMed and Embase will be searched for the period from 01 January 1970 to 31 December 2019 using linked keywords. A manual search in bibliographies of already published and relevant systematic reviews will complete the systematic literature search. The included studies will be combined in a qualitative and quantitative synthesis and statistically evaluated.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this study as it is a systematicreview. The results will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals and presented in national andinternational meetings. This research received no specific grant from any funding agency inthe public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors. This systematic review protocol was registeredwith the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO-NR:CRD42020168644).
Abstracts from international emergency medicine journals
Authors: Production EMJ
Published: December 2020

Editor’s note: EMJ has partnered with the journals of multiple international emergency medicine societies to share from each a highlighted research study, as selected by their editors. This edition will feature an abstract from each publication.
BET 2: Tubular bandage, plaster or aircast boot for avulsion fractures of the base of the fifth metatarsal?
Authors: Mackway-Jones Anna , Mackway-Jones Kevin
Published: December 2020

A shortcut review was carried out to investigate whether avulsion fractures of the base of the fifth metatarsal were best treated with tubular bandage, a walking boot or a short leg plaster cast. One paper presented the only evidence to answer one of the clinical questions (plaster cast or walking boot) but no evidence was found comparing tubular bandage and a walking boot. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of this paper are tabulated. It is concluded that while the only evidence available shows marginal benefit of walking boot over short plaster cast during recovery, there is no benefit to final outcome. Further research comparing tubular bandage and walking boot is required.
MeVO SAVE technique: initial experience with the 167 cm long NeuroSlider 17 for a combined approach in medium vessel occlusions (MeVOs)
Authors: Pérez-García Carlos , Rosati Santiago , Gómez-Escalonilla Carlos , López-Frías Alfonso , Arrazola Juan , Moreu Manuel
Published: December 2020

Goyalet aldescribed occlusions in M2/3, A2/3 and P2/3 as medium vessel occlusions (MeVOs); the only available controlled data of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in MeVOs is limited to the middle cerebral artery M2 segment, suggesting that MT may be effective and safe with high functional independence and recanalization rates. The Stent retriever Assisted Vacuum-locked Extraction (SAVE) technique in mechanical thrombectomy consists of the simultaneous use of a stent retriever and a distal aspiration catheter (DAC), with the removal of both as a unit when performing the thrombectomy pass; however, so far the low-profile (0.035 inch distal inner diameter) DACs were longer (160 cm) than conventional 0.017 inch microcatheters for MeVOs. We present a case of a combined approach MT in MeVO with the use of the new 167 cm long NeuroSlider 17 (Acandis, Pforzheim, Germany) 0.0165 inch microcatheter and 3MAX (Penumbra, Alameda, CA) through the SAVE technique—the MeVO SAVE technique. (video 1).

video 1.
BODY MASS INDEX OF ORTHOPAEDIC SURGICAL PATIENTS IN JEJU — DOES IT REFLECT THE KOREANS’ NUTRITIONAL STATUS
Authors: Moon Myung-Sang , Kim Bum Soo , Kim Seong-Tae , Choi Won Rak , Lim Hyeon Gyu
Published: December 2020

Purpose: To assess the preoperative body mass indices of various orthopaedic conditions, there are a few previous nutritional studies in surgical patients, and none did solely the BMI study in general population in Korea. The current authors planned indirectly to evaluate the Koreans’ obesity. Methods: BMI was used to assess the obesity status of the 2063 orthopaedic patients who were subjected to surgeries; 1272 fractures, 490 various elective surgeries, 232 arthroplasties, 59 musculoskeletal infections, and 10 uninfected diabetics, in Jeju island. Results: Among total 2063 patients, 101 patients (4.8%) had underweight, normal weight in 1220 patients (59.1%), overweight in 630 (30.5%), and the so-called “obese” in 124 cases (6.0%). The obesity in detail of each group is listed in Table 2–6.

Among 1272 fracture cases, underweight in 79 (6.2%), normal weight in 752 (61.5%), overweight in 345 (27.1%), and overall class I–III obese in 66 (5.1%). 490 elective surgery patients had overweight in 34.5% and obese in 7.1%. The incidences of obesity in each condition are nearly similar, ranging from 5.2% to 7.3% except for the diabetic one. Conclusions: This study on BMI of the orthopaedic patients disclosed that the incidence of obesity is not high yet in Jeju islanders, in spite of the highly improved living standard.
Controlling cardinal characteristics without adding reals
Authors: Goldstern Martin , Kellner Jakob , Mejía Diego A. , Shelah Saharon
Published: December 2020

We investigate the behavior of cardinal characteristics of the reals under extensions that do not add new [Formula: see text]-sequences (for some regular [Formula: see text]). As an application, we show that consistently the following cardinal characteristics can be different: The (“independent”) characteristics in Cichoń’s diagram, plus [Formula: see text]. (So we get thirteen different values, including [Formula: see text] and continuum). We also give constructions to alternatively separate other MA-numbers (instead of [Formula: see text]), namely: MA for [Formula: see text]-Knaster from MA for [Formula: see text]-Knaster; and MA for the union of all [Formula: see text]-Knaster forcings from MA for precaliber.
Implementation of Singular Spectrum Analysis in Industrial Robot to Detect Weak Position Fluctuations
Authors: Algburi Riyadh Nazar Ali , Gao Hongli , Al-Huda Zaid
Published: December 2020

A fault or mechanical flaw causes several feeble swings in the position signal. Identification of such swings by encoders can help to identify machine performance and health status and provide a convenient alternative to a vibration-based monitoring system. In operations, the trend is usually several orders higher than the interested magnitude swings, thus increasing the difficulty of identifying feeble swings without signal deformity. Moreover, the swings can be intricate, and the amplitude can be changed under a nonstationary operating condition. Singular spectrum analysis (SSA) for detecting feeble position swings from the rotary encoder signal is suggested in this paper to address this issue. It allows the complex signal of the encoder to be reduced to a variety of explainable noise-containing components, a collection of periodic oscillations, and a trend. The numerical simulation reveals the achievement of the technique. It demonstrates that the SSA is superior to the empirical mode decomposition in terms of accuracy and ability. In addition, rotary encoder signals from the robot arm are evaluated to identify the causes of oscillation at junctions during industrial robot movements. The proposed route for the robotic arm is proven to be feasible and reliable.
Analysis of Nonlinear Active Noise Behavior of Fuzzy Controller Using Non-Perturbation Methods
Authors: Rani Monika , Goyal Rakesh , Singh Vikramjeet
Published: December 2020

In this paper, a Fuzzy controller model has been converted into a time-dependent nonlinear model and then quadratic Riccati differential equation was analyzed to satisfy the solution of the nonlinear active noise behavior of Fuzzy controller. Further, the approximate solutions of this equation using non-perturbation methods i.e., adomian decomposition method (ADM), variational iterational method (VIM) and homotopy perturbation method (HPM) were investigated. A comparison of these methods has also been given with tabular and graphical presentations. Our results reveal that VIM provides the closest approximate solution and fast convergence for the proposed model as compare to ADM and HPM.
Reduction of the Diffusion Equations of Ion Channel Clusters with Virtually No Increase in the Error Bound
Authors: Güler Marifi
Published: December 2020

A stochastic differential formulation for the collective dynamics of ion channel clusters in excitable membranes is developed from the so-called “reduced strong diffusion formulation”. In this error bound optimizing reduced formulation, the potassium channel states [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], and, the sodium channel states [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are the retained states; consequently, the formulation accommodates only four channel variables and five white noises. The accuracy of the formulation is tested over the standard deviations and autocorrelation times of the channel density fluctuations. The findings are seen to be virtually identical to the corresponding results from the exact microscopic Markov simulations. The formulation arises as the most accurate model with that structural simplicity, thus making it an important model for both analytic analyses and numerical simulations in the study of finite-sized membranes.
Luminescence Performance of BaGd2ZnO5 Microcrystalline Powder Doped with Different Rare Earth Ions
Authors: Ou Yuan , Yan Xuefei , Lv Yong , Niu Chunhui
Published: December 2020

A group of BaGd2ZnO5 microcrystalline powders doped with Sm[Formula: see text], Dy[Formula: see text], Nd[Formula: see text] and Er[Formula: see text]/Yb[Formula: see text] were prepared by high temperature solid phase method, respectively. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed that all the products were pure BaGd2ZnO5 crystals, belonging to orthorhombic system and Pbnm space group. The emission spectra of Sm[Formula: see text], Dy[Formula: see text], Nd[Formula: see text] single-doped and Er[Formula: see text]/Yb[Formula: see text] double-doped samples under specific wavelength excitation were measured. The change of luminescence intensity at strong emission peak with doping concentration of doped ions was studied, and concentration quenching effect was found. The CIE color coordinates of the prepared samples were calculated. The results show that all coordinates doped with Sm[Formula: see text] are located in the orange red region. All coordinates of Dy[Formula: see text] doping samples are located in the yellow light region, but close to the white light region. All coordinates of Nd[Formula: see text] doping sample are located in the blue-green region. The upconversion luminescence of Er[Formula: see text]/Yb[Formula: see text] co-doped sample belongs to yellow light region.
Strategic Trade Policy with Unionized Firms: When Activism is the Efficient Choice
Authors: Fanti Luciano , Buccella Domenico
Published: December 2020

This paper revisits the issue (dating back to the Brander and Spencer’s approach, 1985) of the well-known inefficiency of the activist regime where Governments set subsidies for their own exporter firms. It is shown that such policies may be efficient (i.e., national social welfares are higher than under free trade) when firms are unionized under the usual Right-to-Manage arrangement and the product is sufficiently differentiated. That is, the emerging Nash equilibrium regime implies a subsidy policy which is Pareto-efficient, removing the unpleasant Prisoner’s Dilemma structure of the standard Brander and Spencer’s result. As an alternative interpretation this result suggests that, in such cases, it is always convenient the unilateral public intervention because welfares will be superior to those under free trade, also in the case of “retaliation” by the rival Government.
Improved Multiview Decomposition for Single-Image High-Resolution 3D Object Reconstruction
Authors: Peng Jiansheng , Fu Kui , Wei Qingjin , Qin Yong , He Qiwen
Published: December 2020

As a representative technology of artificial intelligence, 3D reconstruction based on deep learning can be integrated into the edge computing framework to form an intelligent edge and then realize the intelligent processing of the edge. Recently, high-resolution representation of 3D objects using multiview decomposition (MVD) architecture is a fast reconstruction method for generating objects with realistic details from a single RGB image. The results of high-resolution 3D object reconstruction are related to two aspects. On the one hand, a low-resolution reconstruction network represents a good 3D object from a single RGB image. On the other hand, a high-resolution reconstruction network maximizes fine low-resolution 3D objects. To improve these two aspects and further enhance the high-resolution reconstruction capabilities of the 3D object generation network, we study and improve the low-resolution 3D generation network and the depth map superresolution network. Eventually, we get an improved multiview decomposition (IMVD) network. First, we use a 2D image encoder with multifeature fusion (MFF) to enhance the feature extraction capability of the model. Second, a 3D decoder using an effective subpixel convolutional neural network (3D ESPCN) improves the decoding speed in the decoding stage. Moreover, we design a multiresidual dense block (MRDB) to optimize the depth map superresolution network, which allows the model to capture more object details and reduce the model parameters by approximately 25% when the number of network layers is doubled. The experimental results show that the proposed IMVD is better than the original MVD in the 3D object superresolution experiment and the high-resolution 3D reconstruction experiment of a single image.
A Wireless Multisensor Node for Long-Term Environmental Parameters Monitoring
Authors: Li Deguang , Wu Tianhao , Li Xiaohui , He Qiurui , Cui Zhanyou
Published: December 2020

Environmental quality is a great concern to everyone, in order to realize the collection, upload, management, and visualization of parameters of atmospheric environment in real time. We propose a cheap, low-power, and fast deployment wireless sensor node for environmental monitoring, consisting of STM32 MCU, ESP8266, light sensor, rain sensor, UV sensor, seven-in-one sensor (including temperature, humidity, PM2.5, PM10, CO2, formaldehyde, and TVOC), and solar automatic tracking module. A customized μC/OS-III runs on the node, which controls the transmission of environment parameters collected by each sensor to the cloud server through the wireless network, and then the server receives, stores, and visualizes the data. In actual test, the node collects data once an hour, and the running power of the node is low and stable. Experimental results show that the node could achieve accurate collection and transmission and display the environmental data, and solar automatic tracking module could meet long-term running of the node in the night and continuous rainy days.