bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Perspectives on Circulating Tumor DNA, Precision Medicine, and Personalized Clinical Management of Cancer
Authors: Oliveira Kelly C.S. , Ramos Iago Barroso , Silva Jessica M.C. , Barra Williams Fernandes , Riggins Gregory J. , Palande Vikrant , Pinho Catarina Torres , Frenkel-Morgenstern Milana , Santos Sidney E.B. , Assumpcao Paulo P. , Burbano Rommel R. , Calcagno Danielle Queiroz
Published: January 2020

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) has recently emerged as a minimally invasive “liquid biopsy” tool in precision medicine. ctDNA-genomic DNA fragments that are released into the bloodstream after the active secretion of microvesicles or tumor cell lysis reflects tumor evolution and the genomic alterations present in primary and/or metastatic tumors. Notably, ctDNA analysis might allow the stratification of patients, the monitoring of the therapeutic response, and the establishment of an opportunity for early intervention independent of detection by imaging modalities or clinical symptoms. As oncology moves towards precision medicine, the information in ctDNA provides a means for the individual management of the patient based on their tumor's genetic profile. This review presents current evidence on the potential role for ctDNA in helping to guide individualized clinical treatment decisions for patients with melanoma, castration-resistant prostate cancer, breast cancer, metastatic colorectal cancer, and non–small cell lung cancer.
TRPV6 as a Putative Genomic Susceptibility Locus Influencing Racial Disparities in Cancer
Authors: Francis-Lyon Patricia A. , Malik Fahreen , Cheng Xiaoyun , Ghezavati Alireza , Xin Feihan , Cai Rafiki
Published: January 2020

It is well established that African Americans exhibit higher incidence, higher mortality, and more aggressive forms of some cancers, including those of breast, prostate, colon, stomach, and cervix. Here we examine the ancestral haplotype of the TRPV6 calcium channel as a putative genomic factor in this racial divide. The minor (ancestral) allele frequency is 60% in people of African ancestry, but between 1% and 11% in all other populations. Research on TRPV6 structure/function, its association with specific cancers, and the evolutionary-ecological conditions that impacted selection of its haplotypes are synthesized to provide evidence for TRPV6 as a germline susceptibility locus in cancer. Recently elucidated mechanisms of TRPV6 channel deactivation are discussed in relation to the location of the allele favored in selection, suggesting a reduced capacity to inactivate the channel in those who have the ancestral haplotype. This could result in an excessively high cellular Ca2+, which has been implicated in cancer, for those in settings where calcium intake is far higher than in their ancestral environment. A recent report associating increasing calcium intake with a pattern of increase in aggressive prostate cancer in African-American but not European-American men may be related. If TRPV6 is found to be associated with cancer, further research would be warranted to improve risk assessment and examine interventions with the aim of improving cancer outcomes for people of African ancestry.
Risk of Prostate Cancer–related Death Following a Low PSA Level in the PLCO Trial
Authors: Landy Rebecca , Houghton Lauren C. , Berg Christine D. , Grubb Robert L. , Katki Hormuzd A. , Black Amanda
Published: January 2020

Longer-than-annual screening intervals have been suggested to improve the balance of benefits and harms in prostate cancer screening. Many researchers, societies, and guideline committees have suggested that screening intervals could depend on the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) result. We analyzed data from men (N = 33,897) ages 55–74 years with a baseline PSA test in the intervention arm of the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian Cancer Screening trial (United States, 1993–2001). We estimated 5- and 10-year risks of aggressive cancer (Gleason ≥8 and/or stage III/IV) and 15-year risks of prostate cancer–related mortality for men with baseline PSA ≤ 0.5 ng/mL (N = 4,862), ≤1 ng/mL (N = 15,110), and 1.01–2.5 ng/mL (N = 12,422). A total of 217 men died from prostate cancer through 15 years, although no men with PSA ≤ 1 ng/mL died from prostate cancer within 5 years [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.00%–0.03%]. The 5-year incidence of aggressive disease was low (0.08%; 95% CI, 0.03%–0.12%) for men with PSA ≤ 1 ng/mL, and higher for men with baseline PSA 1.01–2.5 ng/mL (0.51%; 95% CI, 0.38%–0.74%). No men aged ≥65 years with PSA ≤ 0.5 ng/mL died from prostate cancer within 15 years (95% CI, 0.00%–0.32%), and their 10-year incidence of aggressive disease was low (0.25%; 95% CI, 0.00%–0.53%). Compared with white men, black men with PSA ≤ 1 ng/mL had higher 10-year rates of aggressive disease (1.6% vs. 0.4%; P < 0.01). Five-year screening intervals may be appropriate for the 45% of men with PSA ≤ 1 ng/mL. Men ages ≥65 years with PSA ≤ 0.5 ng/mL could consider stopping screening. Substantial risk disparities suggest appropriate screening intervals could depend on race/ethnicity.
Trends in the Use of Eye Care Services in Adults Treated for Diabetes between 2008 and 2017 in France: A Nationwide Study
Authors: Cougnard-Grégoire Audrey , Korobelnik Jean-François , Delyfer Marie-Noëlle , Rigalleau Vincent , Daien Vincent , Creuzot-Garcher Catherine , Delcourt Cécile
Published: January 2020

Purpose: To describe the use of eye care services among adults treated for diabetes from 2008 to 2017 in the French population. Methods: We used a random representative sampling of the French national health insurance database. Participants were adults treated for diabetes. Data regarding visits to ophthalmologists, eye examination procedures, and medical treatments were extracted using reimbursement codes. Cross-sectional analyses of eye care claims were performed each year from 2008 to 2017. Results: Less than 50% of people with diabetes underwent an annual eye examination (2008: 44.7%; 2017: 47.9%), and less than two-thirds underwent a biennial eye examination (2008–2009: 62.6%; 2016–2017: 66.4%). From 2008 to 2017, the yearly use of optical coherence tomography examinations increased steadily and markedly from 2.7% to 16.2%, while the use of fluorescein and indocyanine green angiographies decreased from 2.4% to 0.9%. In the same period, the yearly rate of intravitreal injection increased from 0.3% to 1.5%, and the use of laser photocoagulation decreased progressively from 2008 to 2014 (1.3% vs. 0.7%) but slightly increased from 2015 to 2017 (0.8% vs. 1.0%). Conclusions: Strategies to increase compliance with eye care recommendations are needed to improve early detection and management of diabetic eye complications.
Mobile robot controller using novel hybrid system
Authors: Abu Baker Ayman A , Ghadi Yazeed
Published: January 2020

Hybrid neuro-fuzzy controller is one of the techniques that is used as a tool to control a mobile robot in unstructured environment. In this paper a novel neuro-fuzzy technique is proposed in order to tackle the problem of mobile robot autonomous navigation in unstructured environment. Obstacle avoidance is an important task in the field of robotics, since the goal of autonomous robot is to reach the destination without collision. The objective is to make the robot move along a collision free trajectory until it reaches its target. The proposed approach uses the artificial neural network instead of the fuzzified engine then the output from it is processed using adaptive inference engine and defuzzification engine. In this approach, the real processing time is reduce that is increase the mobile robot response. The proposed neuro-fuzzy controller is evaluated subjectively and objectively with other approaches and also the processing time is taken in consideration.
A survey of big data and machine learning
Authors: Salkuti Surender Reddy
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a detailed analysis of big data and machine learning (ML) in the electrical power and energy sector. Big data analytics for smart energy operations, applications, impact, measurement and control, and challenges are presented in this paper. Big data and machine learning approaches need to be applied after analyzing the power system problem carefully. Determining the match between the strengths of big data and machine learning for solving the power system problem is of utmost important. They can be of great help to plan and operate the traditional grid/smart grid (SG). The basics of big data and machine learning are described in detailed manner along with their applications in various fields such as electrical power and energy, health care and life sciences, government, telecommunications, web and digital media, retailers, finance, e-commerce and customer service, etc. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of big data and machine learning are presented in this paper.
Moisture content investigation in the soil samples using microwave dielectric constant measurement method
Authors: Dargar Shashi K. , Srivastava Viranjay M.
Published: January 2020

The microwaves of typical frequency ranges of 3 GHz to 30 GHz have been in use for remote sensing applications which are progressing rapidly. The microwaves can sense existing moisture in any material that absorbs moisture such as soil or vegetation. In case of soils which may be comprised of variable mix proportionate of solids, liquids or gases and distinct textures subjected to the associated size and the arrangements of soil particles. Hence, the moisture absorption by a specific type of soil used to be different. The inherent physical and electrical properties such as color, texture, grains, dielectric constant, conductivity or permeability, etc. differentiate various soils. In this work, authors present soil moisture measurement by simple estimation of emissivity i.e. the ratio of energy radiated by an object to absorbing the body of same physical temperature. A strategic method of measuring dielectric constant using a microwave signal is used in this research work. The measurement of the dielectric constant of the soils collected from the specific regions and analysis of results has been reported. The proposed method is less complex and can further be used for the identification of soil moisture and agricultural applications.
BLDC motor driven electric skateboard using SVPWM
Authors: Palanisamy R. , Ankit Singh Th. , Ranjan Anamika , Singh Jatin
Published: January 2020

Several problems are faced by today’s generation. One of them is the increase in pollution in our everyday life. Each of us can play a part in reducing this by using some environmentally friendly method such as cycles which requires mechanical force. Another way to accomplish this is by using electricity to produce this mechanical force i.e. electric motor. In this paper BLDC motor driven electric skateboard is designed with mathematical calculation, verified with simulation and developed as a experimental setup.
Optimal design of adaptive power scheduling using modified ant colony optimization algorithm
Authors: Joy Vijo M , Krishnakumar S.
Published: January 2020

For generating and distributing an economic load scheduling approach, artificial neural network (ANN) has been introduced, because power generation and power consumption are economically non-identical. An efficient load scheduling method is suggested in this paper. Normally the power generation system fails due to its instability at peak load time. Traditionally, load shedding process is used in which low priority loads are disconnected from sources. The proposed method handles this problem by scheduling the load based on the power requirements. In many countries the power systems are facing limitations of energy. An efficient optimization algorithm is used to periodically schedule the load demand and the generation. Ant colony optimization (ACO) based ANN is used for this optimal load scheduling process. The present work analyse the technical economical and time-dependent limitations. Also the works meets the demanded load with minimum cost of energy. Inorder to train ANN back propagation (BP) technics is used. A hybrid training process is described in this work. Global optimization algorithms are used to provide back propagation with good initial connection weights.
A comparative study of three validities computation methods for multimodel approach
Authors: Ben Aoun Samia Talmoudi , Ben Messaoud Abdennacer , Lahmari Ksouri Moufida
Published: January 2020

The multimodel approach offers a very satisfactory results in modelling, diagnose and control of complex systems. In the modelling case, this approach passes by three steps: the determination of the model’s library, the validities computation and the establishment of the final model. In this context, this paper focuses on the elaboration of a comparative study between three recent methods of validities computation. Thus, it highlight the method that offers the best performances in term of precision. To achieve this goal, we apply, these three methods on two simulation examples in order to compare their performances.
Image steganography using least significant bit and secret map techniques
Authors: Alabaichi Ashwaq , Ali K. Al-Dabbas Maisa'a Abid , Salih Adnan
Published: January 2020

In steganography, secret data are invisible in cover media, such as text, audio, video and image. Hence, attackers have no knowledge of the original message contained in the media or which algorithm is used to embed or extract such message. Image steganography is a branch of steganography in which secret data are hidden in host images. In this study, image steganography using least significant bit and secret map techniques is performed by applying 3D chaotic maps, namely, 3D Chebyshev and 3D logistic maps, to obtain high security. This technique is based on the concept of performing random insertion and selecting a pixel from a host image. The proposed algorithm is comprehensively evaluated on the basis of different criteria, such as correlation coefficient, information entropy, homogeneity, contrast, image, histogram, key sensitivity, hiding capacity, quality index, mean square error (MSE), peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and image fidelity. Results show that the proposed algorithm satisfies all the aforementioned criteria and is superior to other previous methods. Hence, it is efficient in hiding secret data and preserving the good visual quality of stego images. The proposed algorithm is resistant to different attacks, such as differential and statistical attacks, and yields good results in terms of key sensitivity, hiding capacity, quality index, MSE, PSNR and image fidelity.
Detecting malicious URLs using binary classification through adaboost algorithm
Authors: Khan Firoz , Ahamed Jinesh , Kadry Seifedine , Ramasamy Lakshmana Kumar
Published: January 2020

Malicious Uniform Resource Locator (URL) is a frequent and severe menace to cybersecurity. Malicious URLs are used to extract unsolicited information and trick inexperienced end users as a sufferer of scams and create losses of billions of money each year. It is crucial to identify and appropriately respond to such URLs. Usually, this discovery is made by the practice and use of blacklists in the cyber world. However, blacklists cannot be exhaustive, and cannot recognize zero-day malicious URLs. So to increase the observation of malicious URL indicators, machine learning procedures should be incorporated. This study aims to discuss the exposure of malicious URLs as a binary classification problem using machine learning through an AdaBoost algorithm.
Description of a new species of the genus Lampropsephus Fleutiaux, 1928 (Coleoptera: Elateridae: Elaterinae: Dicrepidiini) from Konkan, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Patwardhan Amol , Khot Rahul
Published: January 2020

Lampropsephus sulcatus sp. nov. is described from the Konkan region of Maharashtra, India.  A note to transfer Propsephus assamensis from Propsephus Candeze, 1859 to Sephilus Candeze, 1878 is included.
Status, distribution, threats, and conservation of the Ganges River Dolphin Platanista gangetica (Mammalia: Artiodactyla: Cetacea) in Nepal
Authors: Shah Deep Narayan , Poudyal Amit , Sharma Gopal , Levine Sarah , Subedi Naresh , Dhakal Maheshwor
Published: January 2020

The Ganges River Dolphin Platanista  gangetica  has been classified as Endangered in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.  The IUCN changed its status from ‘Vulnerable’ to ‘Endangered’ in 1996 as the species population was declining in its entire distribution range.  It is, however, classified as ‘Critically Endangered’ in Nepal.  Historically, the freshwater cetacean has been documented in the Karnali, Koshi, Narayani, and Mahakali basins.  With their population and distribution range in decline, the Ganges River Dolphin (GRD) is no longer found in the Mahakali River system, which demarcates and traverses the Western border of India and Nepal.  This study examines the status and distribution of the GRD in the river systems of Nepal during the monsoon of 2016.  The national dolphin population survey was conducted in the three largest river basins in Nepal—Karnali, Narayani, and Koshi.  Each of the three basins represent the extreme upstream limit of the GRD distribution in Ganges River basin.  The national population survey included both a boat-based survey and shore-based synchronized counting in each of the three river systems.  Fifty-two (Best-High-Low: 52-61-50) dolphins were counted during the entire nationwide survey, conducted in July–August, 2016.  Researchers gathered social-data from locals residing alongside the observed basin, giving priority to artisanal fishers and those subsisting to some degree from the rivers known to host the river dolphin.  A questionnaire survey of ninety-two residents from riparian villages adjacent to the GRD hotspots sheds light on the local perspectives towards dolphin conservation coupled with an assessment of their socio-economic status; artisanal fishing practices; and their awareness of dolphin conservation.  According to the survey, notable threats to dolphin conservation are prey depletion; non-availability of suitable habitat; habitat fragmentation and a low level of awareness.  Based on the counting outcomes and social survey, recommendations have been put forward for the conservation of this species.
Two new records of gilled mushrooms of the genus Amanita (Agaricales: Amanitaceae) from India
Authors: Verma R.K. , Pandro V. , Rao G. Rajeshwar
Published: January 2020

Two new records of Amanita constricta and Amanita velosa from India are reported for the first time from sal Shorea robusta forest of central India.  Earlier Amanita constricta was reported from USA and Canada, while A. velosa was reported from USA and Mexico.  The reported species are edible but they should be taken with caution as at least two deadly Amanitas with saccate type volvas are known.  A. velosa grows in open areas.
Bat (Mammalia: Chiroptera) diversity, dominance, and richness in the southwestern region of Bhutan with three new records for the country
Authors: Tshering Sangay , Gurung Dhan Bahadur , Sherub Karma , Dookia Sumit , Dorji Kuenzang , Choephyel Pema
Published: January 2020

Bats are ecologically crucial as they are good pollinators and pest controllers, but are less known in Bhutan.  We investigated bat diversity and richness in broadleaved forests of southwestern Bhutan.  Fieldwork was carried out from July 2016 to April 2017 using mist nets and hoop nets.  The main objective of the study was to document bat diversity and species richness. We captured 157 bats of 10 species belonging to four families. Two species (Myotis siligorensis Horsfield, 1855 and Rhinolophus affinis Horsfield, 1823) accounted for almost 52% of the total captures.  Species richness of bats differed depending upon habitat types. Myotis siligorensis was captured more often from broadleaved forests whereas Rhinolophus macrotis Blyth, 1844 and Rhinolophus affinis were common around human settlements. The present study contributed three new records for Bhutan which increased the bat diversity from 65 to 68 species. We conclude that the southwestern region, especially Chukha District, could be one of the bat diversity hotspots in Bhutan.
Digital image post processing techniques for taxonomic publications with reference to insects
Authors: Joshi Nikhil , Ghate Hemant , Padhye Sameer
Published: January 2020

There exists substantial literature for capturing digital images of insect specimens for taxonomy purposes but very few papers are available on post processing of these images.  We present a few techniques for editing digital images of insects using Adobe® Photoshop® which can be performed in a relatively short amount of time.  The results clearly show that techniques using a combination of options like Curves, Dodge/Burn, Hue/Saturation and Lab Color mode in the software, enhance the quality of the original image without changing any taxonomic information.  These methods applied in different combinations can be used for taxonomy of any insect taxon.  We also caution the readers of the abuse of such techniques in context of taxonomy.
Re-collection of the Luminous Lantern Flower Ceropegia lucida Wall. (Apocynaceae) from Assam, India
Authors: Dey Debolina , Baruah Manash , Devi Nilakshee , Borah Jitendra Nath
Published: January 2020

The present paper records the re-collection of an extremely rare plant Ceropegia lucida Wall. from the Golaghat District of Assam after a gap of 145 years.  A detailed account of the plant has been given to aid in its proper identification and further conservation steps.
Composition, diversity and foraging guilds of avifauna in agricultural landscapes In Panipat, Haryana, India
Authors: Kumar Parmesh , Sahu Sharmila
Published: January 2020

Avian communities are very good indicators of integrity and stability of ecosystem structure and functions. Assessment of bird assemblages in different landscapes is therefore emphasized from an environmental monitoring viewpoint.  Bird surveys were carried out from April 2015 to March 2016 to document the avian species assemblage of agricultural landscapes in Panipat, Haryana, India.  Point-transect in amalgam with opportunistic encounter methods were used to collect data.  A total of 101 bird species under 44 families and 15 orders were recorded from the study area.  The bird species richness was highest for the order Passeriformes (48), followed by Pelecaniformes (15), Charadriiformes (6), and the remaining 12 orders.  Ardeidae was the most diverse bird family in the study area.  Among the recorded avifauna, 77 species were residents, 18 species were winter migrants and six species were summer migrants.  Species richness was recorded to be highest in the month of January compared to the remaining months.  Species richness, abundance, diversity and evenness differed significantly (P < 0.05) between seasons as well as among the agricultural landscapes.  Most bird species were insectivorous (36) followed by carnivorous (26), omnivorous (24), granivorous (9), frugivorous (5) and nectarivorous (1).  Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala, Black-necked Stork Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus, Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus, and Alexandrine Parakeet Psittacula eupatria are four Near Threatened species found in this region.  Interestingly, five species having globally declining population trends are still common in the study area.  The observed richness of avian species in the study area calls for further studies on habitat preference, seasonal changes, nest ecology, and breeding biology to understand species speciﬁc roles of birds in agro-ecosystems.
Rhynchotechum parviflorum Blume (Gesneriaceae): a new record to mainland India
Authors: Taram Momang , Mipun Puranjoy , Borah Dipankar
Published: January 2020

Rhynchotechum parviflorum Blume earlier known to occur in Nicobar Islands of India is now recorded for the first time from Upper Siang of Arunachal Pradesh, Mainland India.  A short description along with colour images are provided for easy identification.
Spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) from the vicinity of Araabath Lake, Chennai, India
Authors: Caleb John T.D.
Published: January 2020

This study documents the spider fauna in the vicinity of a suburban lake (Araabath Lake) in Chennai.  A total of 70 species of spiders belonging to 58 genera and 21 families were recorded.  Seven species are endemic to India and six are endemic to India and Sri Lanka.  Salticidae was the most dominant with 24 species belonging to 19 genera.  Guild structure analysis revealed seven feeding guilds of which, stalkers and orb-web weavers were the dominant feeding guilds followed by ground runners and ambushers, respectively.
Sodium‐Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibition for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Events in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Arnott Clare , Li Qiang , Kang Amy , Neuen Brendon L. , Bompoint Severine , Lam Carolyn S. P. , Rodgers Anthony , Mahaffey Kenneth W. , Cannon Christopher P. , Perkovic Vlado , Jardine Meg J. , Neal Bruce
Published: January 2020

Background

Several trials have demonstrated protective effects from inhibition of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. There is uncertainty about the consistency of the cardiovascular benefits achieved across patient subsets.

Methods and Results

We included 4 large‐scale trials of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibition compared with placebo in patients with diabetes mellitus that reported effects on cardiovascular outcomes overall and for participant subgroups defined at baseline by cardiovascular disease, reduced kidney function, and heart failure. Fixed effects models with inverse variance weighting were used to estimate summary hazard ratios and 95%
CIs
. There were 38 723 patients from 4 trials, with a mean 2.9 years of follow‐up. Of the patients, 22 870 (59%) had cardiovascular disease, 7754 (20%) had reduced kidney function, and 4543 (12%) had heart failure. There were 3828 major adverse cardiac events. There was overall benefit for major adverse cardiac events (0.88; 95%
CI
, 0.82–0.94;
P
<0.001) and no evidence that the effects of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibition varied across patient subgroups, defined by the presence of cardiovascular disease or heart failure at baseline (all
P
interaction >0.252; I
2
<25%). All patient subgroups benefited with respect to hospitalization for heart failure (all
P
interaction>0.302; I
2
<10%), cardiovascular death (all
P
interaction>0.167; I
2
<50%), and death from any cause (all
P
interaction>0.354; I
2
=0%). The only difference in effects across subgroups was for stroke, with protection observed among those with reduced kidney function but not those with preserved kidney function (
P
interaction=0.020; I
2
=81%).

Conclusions

Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors protect against cardiovascular disease and death in diverse subsets of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus regardless of cardiovascular disease history.
Syntactic Head Movement in Japanese: Evidence from Verb-Echo Answers and Negative Scope Reversal
Authors: Sato Yosuke , Maeda Masako
Published: January 2020

We investigate the syntax of verb-echo answers in Japanese. We first present two arguments showing that this answer form is best analyzed through overt V-to-T-to-C movement, followed by TP-ellipsis. We further show that verb-echo answers exhibit a scope reversal effect: the otherwise robust wide scope reading of focus-marked phrases with respect to negation is reversed in this construction, a pattern that holds across all grammatical positions. This ubiquitous scope reversal pattern indicates that certain instances of head movement in Japanese are syntactic, contrary to the view (Chomsky 2000, 2001) that head move-ment is to be relegated to the postsyntactic, phonological component.
Introducing Arguments and Modifiers in the Noun Phrase
Authors: Baggio Pietro
Published: January 2020

Noun phrases, such as this photo, can often appear both with modifiers, such as the adjective old, and with arguments, typically PPs such as of the queen. Most of the literature on the syntax of DPs has adopted the hypothesis that adjectives are base-generated higher than nominal arguments, just as adverbs are merged higher than arguments in the clause. This squib looks at the syntax of the Italian DP, focusing on the distribution of modifier PPs and argument PPs, and offers novel evidence that, contrary to the received view, nominal modifiers such as adjectives are in fact base-generated lower than nominal arguments.
The Programmatic Approach: Finding the Right Balance between the Precautionary Principle and the Right to Conduct a Business
Authors: Kegge Rogier , Drahmann Annemarie
Published: January 2020

This article aims to assess whether a programmatic approach could still be a useful legal instrument for the allocation of scarce environmental rights and a legitimate tool for implementing EU Directives. In response to the recent judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union (cjeu) in the Dutch Programmatic Approach to Nitrogen case,
1
we will examine under what conditions a programmatic approach could be compatible with the precautionary principle and the freedom to conduct a business as protected by EU law. These principles are inextricably linked, and the Member States and the cjeu must find a balance between a high level of environmental protection and the freedom to conduct a business.
The syntax of Arabic vocatives
Authors: Al-Bataineh Hussein
Published: January 2020

This paper examines the syntactic structure of Arabic vocatives, focusing on case-marking of vocatives. The assignment of accusative and nominative-like case can be accounted for in the light of Hill (2017)’s proposal which provides the basic structure of the vocative phrase. This paper argues that in Arabic vocatives (i) the particle YAA is a transitive probe with valued [ACC-Case] and unvalued [2nd] and [Distance] features; (ii) The D has the unvalued case feature [u-Case], and it has both the [2nd] and [+Distance] features if it is a free pronoun and (iii) The vocative noun carries the valued [2nd] and [+/-Distance] features. Based on these assumptions, I argued that indefinite vocatives are assigned accusative case only if they are merged with an overt D -n, otherwise a nominative-like case surfaces on the noun by default. Proper names have the same analysis since the presence of the indefinite article -n is a prerequisite for accusative case assignment. Concerning vocatives as heads of Construct States, N-to-D movement takes place in order to assign [+def] feature to D and is assigned accusative case by YAA. Regarding vocatives in demonstrative phrases, the existence of a null D prevents the vocative noun from being assigned an overt accusative case. Concerning vocative pronouns, only accusative case is assigned since the determiner carrying the [u-Case] feature is overt.
First discovery of Leuctra fusca tergostyla Wu, 1973 in Sichuan Province of China and notes on its taxonomic status, with new illustrations for Rhopalopsole sinensis Yang & Yang, 1993 (Plecoptera: Leuctridae)
Authors: CHEN ZHI-TENG
Published: January 2020

The only known member of genus Leuctra Stephens, 1836 from China, L. fusca tergostyla Wu, 1973 is discovered in Sichuan Province of southwestern China for the first time. New illustrations of this subspecies are provided for identification. The taxonomic status of L. f. tergostyla is discussed. Another species of Leuctridae, Rhopalopsole sinensis Yang & Yang, 1993 is studied herein and supplemented with new illustrations. The female of R. sinensis is illustrated for the first time.
Gadolinium-Based Nanoparticles Can Overcome the Radioresistance of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Through the Induction of Autophagy
Authors: Simonet S. , Rodriguez-Lafrasse C. , Beal D. , Gerbaud S. , Malesys C. , Tillement O. , Lux F. , Fayyad-Kazan H. , Rachidi W. , Ardail D.
Published: January 2020

Radiation therapy is a mainstay in the therapeutic management of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC). Despite significant progress in this field, radioresistance still accounts for most treatment failures. Gadolinium-based nanoparticles (GBNs) have shown great promises as
radiosensitizers but the underlying sensitizing mechanism is still largely unknown with regards to the disparities obtained in in vitro studies. In this study, we show that a new formulation of GBNs, AGuIX®, can radiosensitize HNSCC after cell uptake and further accumulation
in lysosomes. Although radiation alone triggered late apoptosis and mitochondrial impairment, the pre-treatment with GBNs led to complex DNA damage and a specific increase of autophagic cell death. In addition, a significant radio-enhancement effect was obtained after the pre-conditioning
of cells with a glutathione inhibitor before GBNs treatment and radiation exposure. Overall, our results provide additional information on the radio-enhancing properties of GBNs in the management of radioresistant HNSCC.
Electrostatic Self-Assemble Modified Electrospun Poly-L-Lactic Acid/Poly-Vinylpyrrolidone Composite Polymer and Its Potential Applications in Small-Diameter Artificial Blood Vessels
Authors: Xu Fei , Fan Yubo
Published: January 2020

Large (> 6 mm) artificial blood vessels have been successfully employed in clinic practice. However, small-diameter (< 6 mm) synthetic grafts have not been applied due to their hydrophobicity. In this study, poly-vinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was introduced into poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)
to prepare biodegradable small-diameter electrospun blood vessels which were further modified via electrostatic self-assembly (ESA). The characteristics of PLLA/PVP films were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), contact angle measurement and mechanical property testing. The
cytocompatiblility and blood compatibility of the fiber films were further studied through vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation and platelet adhesion, and the morphology of cells on films was viewed by laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) and SEM. Next, the surface of ESA-modified
electrospun fiber films was analyzed through SEM and photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The degradation characteristics of these films were investigated through SEM observation, weight loss, viscosity average molecular weight reduction, and pH change in the testing solutions as well. The films
were also subcutaneously implanted in rabbits to analyze the biocompatibility. The results of these experiments showed that electrospun films with PVP possessed a good structure and improved hydrophilicity. The films assembled with chitosan/heparin by ESA were beneficial to VSMCs survival
and had excellent blood compatibilities. The data indicated these films were biodegradable with good tissue compatibility. In conclusion, we successfully obtained biodegradable small-diameter blood vessels through electrospinning PLLA/PVP and modifying this blend's surface using ESA. The study
provided a feasible method for making small-diameter synthetic blood vessels with improved hydrophilic and anticoagulant properties.
Benefit and harm of intravenous vasodilators across the clinical profile spectrum in acute cardiogenic pulmonary oedema patients
Authors: Shiraishi Yasuyuki , Kohsaka Shun , Katsuki Toshiomi , Harada Kazumasa , Miyazaki Tetsuro , Miyamoto Takamichi , Matsushita Kenichi , Iida Kiyoshi , Takei Makoto , Yamamoto Yoshiya , Shindo Akito , Kitano Daisuke , Nagatomo Yuji , Jimba Takahiro , Yamamoto Takeshi , Nagao Ken , Takayama Morimasa ,   for Tokyo CCU Network Scientific Committee
Published: January 2020

Background:

The absence of high quality, large-scale data that indicates definitive mortality benefits does not allow for firm conclusions on the role of intravenous vasodilators in acute heart failure. We aimed to investigate the associations between intravenous vasodilators and clinical outcomes in acute heart failure patients, with a specific focus on patient profiles and type of vasodilators.

Methods:

Data of 26,212 consecutive patients urgently hospitalised for a primary diagnosis of acute heart failure between 2009 and 2015 were extracted from a government-funded multicentre data registration system. Propensity scores were calculated with multiple imputations and 1:1 matching performed between patients with and without vasodilator use. The primary endpoint was inhospital mortality.

Results:

On direct comparison of the vasodilator and non-vasodilator groups after propensity score matching, there were no significant differences in the inhospital mortality rates (7.5% vs. 8.8%, respectively; P=0.098) or length of intensive/cardiovascular care unit stay and hospital stay between the two groups. However, there was a substantial difference in baseline systolic blood pressure by vasodilator type; favourable impacts of vasodilator use on inhospital mortality were observed among patients who had higher systolic blood pressures and those who had no atrial fibrillation on admission. Furthermore, when compared to nitrates, the use of carperitide (natriuretic peptide agent) was significantly associated with worse outcomes, especially in patients with intermediate systolic blood pressures.

Conclusions:

In acute heart failure patients, vasodilator use was not universally associated with improved inhospital outcomes; rather, its effect depended on individual clinical presentation: patients with higher systolic blood pressure and no atrial fibrillation seemed to benefit maximally from vasodilators.

Trial registration:

UMIN-CTR identifier, UMIN000013128
Quasimetagenomic source tracking of Listeria monocytogenes from naturally contaminated ice cream
Authors: Ottesen Andrea , Ramachandran Padmini , Chen Yi , Brown Eric , Reed Elizabeth , Strain Errol
Published: January 2020

Background

The more quickly bacterial pathogens responsible for foodborne illness outbreaks can be linked to a vehicle of transmission or a source, the more illnesses can be prevented. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) based approaches to source tracking have greatly increased the speed and resolution with which public health response can pinpoint the vehicle and source of outbreaks. Traditionally, WGS approaches have focused on the culture of an individual isolate before proceeding to DNA extraction and sequencing. For Listeria monocytogenes (Lm), generation of an individual isolate for sequencing typically takes about 6 days. Here we demonstrate that a hybrid, “quasimetagenomic” approach ie; direct sequencing of microbiological enrichments (first step in pathogen detection and recovery) can provide high resolution source tracking sequence data, 5 days earlier than response that focuses on culture and sequencing of an individual isolate. This expedited approach could save lives, prevent illnesses and potentially minimize unnecessary destruction of food.

Methods

Naturally contaminated ice cream (from a 2015 outbreak) was enriched to recover Listeria monocytogenes following protocols outlined in the Bacteriological Analytic Manual (BAM). DNA from enriching microbiota was extracted and sequenced at incremental time-points during the first 48 h of pre-enrichment using the Illumina MiSeq platform (2 by 250), to evaluate genomic coverage of target pathogen, Listeria monocytogenes.

Results

Quasimetagenomic sequence data acquired from hour 20 were sufficient to discern whether or not Lm strain/s were part of the ongoing outbreak or not. Genomic data from hours 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, and 48 of pre-enrichments all provided identical phylogenetic source tracking utility to the WGS of individual isolates (which require an additional 5 days to culture).

Conclusions

The speed of this approach (more than twice as fast as current methods) has the potential to reduce the number of illnesses associated with any given outbreak by as many as 75% percent of total cases and potentially with continued optimization of the entire chain of response, contribute to minimized food waste.
Clinical and microbiological effect of pulsed xenon ultraviolet disinfection to reduce multidrug-resistant organisms in the intensive care unit in a Japanese hospital: a before-after study
Authors: Morikane Keita , Suzuki Shoko , Yoshioka Jun , Yakuwa Jun , Nakane Masaki , Nemoto Kenji
Published: January 2020

Background

No-touch environmental disinfection using ultraviolet devices has been highlighted in the past several years to control the transmission of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs). However, its effectiveness in non-US healthcare settings is yet to be examined. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of disinfection by portable pulsed xenon ultraviolet (PX-UV) devices in controlling transmission of MDROs in a non-US healthcare setting.

Methods

All patients admitted in the intensive care unit in a 629-bed tertiary referral hospital in Japan from August 2016 to February 2019 were enrolled. During the study period, PX-UV disinfection was added to manual terminal cleaning after every patient transfer/discharge. For microbiological evaluation, surfaces were selected for sampling by contact plates before/after manual cleaning and after PX-UV. After overnight incubation, colonies on the plates were counted.

Results

The incidence of newly acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) declined significantly (13.8 to 9.9 per 10,000 patient days, incidence rate ratio 0.71, p = 0.002), as well as that of newly acquired drug-resistant Acinetobacter (48.5 to 18.1, 0.37, p < 0.001). The percent reduction of the microbiological burden by manual cleaning was 81%, but a further 59% reduction was achieved by PX-UV.

Conclusions

PX-UV is effective in further reducing the microbial burden and controlling MDROs in a non-US healthcare setting.
Differential expression of matrix metalloproteinases and miRNAs in the metastasis of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ren Zhen-Hu , Wu Kun , Yang Rong , Liu Zhe-Qi , Cao Wei
Published: January 2020

Background

Our study aimed to reveal the regulatory mechanisms of miRNAs and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods

The mRNA and miRNA expression profiles of six metastatic tumour samples, six nonmetastatic tumour samples, and six normal tissue samples were used for microarray analysis. Moreover, the important genes and miRNAs were validated by published profiles in Oncomine and by qRT-PCR.

Results

MMP7, MMP13, and MMP10 were upregulated, and MMP12 and MMP9 were downregulated in metastatic tumours compared with nonmetastatic tumours. MMP7 was regulated by miR-4697-5p and miR-7109-5p. MMP7 and MMP13 were upregulated in OSCC samples compared with normal samples in Oncomine. Moreover, qRT-PCR revealed that the expression of miR-7109-5p and miR-34b was decreased in metastatic tumours compared with nonmetastatic tumours.

Conclusions

Our study suggested that miR-7109-5p and miR-34b might play important roles in the metastasis of OSCC by regulating MMP7 and MMP13 expression, respectively.
Expression of SMARCD1 interacts with age in association with asthma control on inhaled corticosteroid therapy
Authors: McGeachie Michael J. , Sordillo Joanne E. , Dahlin Amber , Wang Alberta L. , Lutz Sharon M. , Tantisira Kelan G. , Panganiban Ronald , Lu Quan , Sajuthi Satria , Urbanek Cydney , Kelly Rachel , Saef Benjamin , Eng Celeste , Oh Sam S. , Kho Alvin T. , Croteau-Chonka Damien C. , Weiss Scott T. , Raby Benjamin A. , Mak Angel C. Y. , Rodriguez-Santana Jose R. , Burchard Esteban G. , Seibold Max A. , Wu Ann Chen
Published: January 2020

Background

Global gene expression levels are known to be highly dependent upon gross demographic features including age, yet identification of age-related genomic indicators has yet to be comprehensively undertaken in a disease and treatment-specific context.

Methods

We used gene expression data from CD4+ lymphocytes in the Asthma BioRepository for Integrative Genomic Exploration (Asthma BRIDGE), an open-access collection of subjects participating in genetic studies of asthma with available gene expression data. Replication population participants were Puerto Rico islanders recruited as part of the ongoing Genes environments & Admixture in Latino Americans (GALA II), who provided nasal brushings for transcript sequencing. The main outcome measure was chronic asthma control as derived by questionnaires. Genomic associations were performed using regression of chronic asthma control score on gene expression with age in years as a covariate, including a multiplicative interaction term for gene expression times age.

Results

The SMARCD1 gene (SWI/SNF-related matrix-associated actin-dependent regulator of chromatin subfamily D member 1) interacted with age to influence chronic asthma control on inhaled corticosteroids, with a doubling of expression leading to an increase of 1.3 units of chronic asthma control per year (95% CI [0.86, 1.74], p = 6 × 10− 9), suggesting worsening asthma control with increasing age. This result replicated in GALA II (p = 3.8 × 10− 8). Cellular assays confirmed the role of SMARCD1 in glucocorticoid response in airway epithelial cells.

Conclusion

Focusing on age-dependent factors may help identify novel indicators of asthma medication response. Age appears to modulate the effect of SMARCD1 on asthma control with inhaled corticosteroids.
Polymorphic markers for identification of parasite population in Plasmodium malariae
Authors: Mathema Vivek Bhakta , Nakeesathit Supatchara , Pagornrat Watcharee , Smithuis Frank , White Nicholas J. , Dondorp Arjen M. , Imwong Mallika
Published: January 2020

Background

Molecular genotyping in Plasmodium serves many aims including providing tools for studying parasite population genetics and distinguishing recrudescence from reinfection. Microsatellite typing, insertion-deletion (INDEL) and single nucleotide polymorphisms is used for genotyping, but only limited information is available for Plasmodium malariae, an important human malaria species. This study aimed to provide a set of genetic markers to facilitate the study of P. malariae population genetics.

Methods

Markers for microsatellite genotyping and pmmsp1 gene polymorphisms were developed and validated in symptomatic P. malariae field isolates from Myanmar (N = 37). Fragment analysis was used to determine allele sizes at each locus to calculate multiplicity of infections (MOI), linkage disequilibrium, heterozygosity and construct dendrograms. Nucleotide diversity (π), number of haplotypes, and genetic diversity (Hd) were assessed and a phylogenetic tree was constructed. Genome-wide microsatellite maps with annotated regions of newly identified markers were constructed.

Results

Six microsatellite markers were developed and tested in 37 P. malariae isolates which showed sufficient heterozygosity (0.530–0.922), and absence of linkage disequilibrium (IAS=0.03, p value > 0.05) (N = 37). In addition, a tandem repeat (VNTR)-based pmmsp1 INDEL polymorphisms marker was developed and assessed in 27 P. malariae isolates showing a nucleotide diversity of 0.0976, haplotype gene diversity of 0.698 and identified 14 unique variants. The size of VNTR consensus repeat unit adopted as allele was 27 base pairs. The markers Pm12_426 and pmmsp1 showed greatest diversity with heterozygosity scores of 0.920 and 0.835, respectively. Using six microsatellites markers, the likelihood that any two parasite strains would have the same microsatellite genotypes was 8.46 × 10−4 and was further reduced to 1.66 × 10−4 when pmmsp1 polymorphisms were included.

Conclusions

Six novel microsatellites genotyping markers and a set of pmmsp1 VNTR-based INDEL polymorphisms markers for P. malariae were developed and validated. Each marker could be independently or in combination employed to access genotyping of the parasite. The newly developed markers may serve as a useful tool for investigating parasite diversity, population genetics, molecular epidemiology and for distinguishing recrudescence from reinfection in drug efficacy studies.