bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Supine and Lateral Decubitus Positions for Total Hip Arthroplasty with the Direct Lateral Approach in Overweight and Obese Patients
Authors: Güler Olcay , Öztürk Sidar , Özgezmez Ferit Tufan , Çerçi Mehmet Halis
Published: February 2020

Background. The purpose of our study is to compare the results of supine and lateral decubitus positions for total hip arthroplasty (THA) with the direct lateral (DL) approach in overweight and obese patients. Methods. Patients who had a THA with the DL approach using the lateral decubitus position (LD group) (n = 54) or supine position (S group) (n = 45) were retrospectively investigated. Demographic characteristics, age, and body mass indexes were calculated. Blood loss of patients, amount of transfusion, Harris Hip Scores (HHSs) (preop, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months), incision size, surgery time, postoperative acetabular cup inclination angle, femoral stem alignment, follow‐up period, hospital stay, preoperative‐postoperative leg length inequality, and complication rates (infection, wound site problems, and dislocation rates) were compared. Results. Both groups did not differ from each other by means of age, gender, BMI, and affected side (p = 0.814, p = 0.723, p = 0.582, and p = 0.833, respectively). The incision length (p < 0.001), blood loss (p = 0.010), and amount of blood transfused (p = 0.002) were significantly higher in the S group than in the LD group. The surgical time was significantly longer in the S group (p < 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences between the LD and S groups in terms of pre‐ and postoperative height, cup inclination, stem alignment, duration of hospital stay, and follow‐up period. The change between pre‐ and postoperative HHS in the LD and S groups was statistically significant. Post hoc binary comparison analysis was conducted to investigate the difference between the groups. The values of HHS were significantly increased from the preoperative period to the final follow‐up. Conclusions. The LD and S groups had comparable functional outcomes one year postoperatively. However, the S group was associated with worse intraoperative outcomes than the LD group.
Meta‐Analysis of Changes in the Number and Proportion of Regulatory T Cells in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Li Ming , Zhou Xueping , Zhou Lingling , Yu Zhichao , Fu Ling , Yang Pei
Published: February 2020

Studies on the number and proportion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients have been controversial, which has led to a disagreement regarding the role of Tregs in the pathogenesis of AS. To clarify this debate, we conducted a meta‐analysis to verify the reported changes in Tregs during AS. We systematically searched the PubMed, Foreign Medical Retrieval System (FMRS), and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) web of knowledge databases for eligible articles. A meta‐analysis of studies that examined the proportion and number of Tregs among peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and CD4+ T cells was performed using Stata software. Further, subgroup analysis was performed based on Treg definition markers and disease activity to identify potential sources of heterogeneity. Forty‐seven studies involving a total of 4373 participants were included in the meta‐analysis. The Treg/PBMC and Treg/CD4+ T cell ratios were significantly lower in AS patients than those in healthy controls (HCs). A subgroup analysis indicated that patients defined by CD4+CD25+/high, CD4+CD25+CD127low/−, and CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ had much lower Treg/PBMC and Treg/CD4+ T cell ratios than HCs. Active AS patients also had a substantially lower proportion of Tregs/PBMCs and Treg/CD4+ T cells than HCs. The proportion of Tregs among both PBMCs and CD4+ T cells was significantly decreased in AS patients. Treg definition markers and disease activity may influence the proportion of Tregs measured among the PBMC and CD4+ T cell populations. Further study of the correlation between AS disease activity and the proportion of Tregs in peripheral blood is needed to determine the physiological role of this association. This study implies that loss of Tregs may play a role in the pathogenesis of AS and helps clarify the contradictory Treg results in AS patients. This trial is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019147064).
Copper Does Not Induce Tenogenic Differentiation but Promotes Migration and Increases Lysyl Oxidase Activity in Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Authors: Milewska Marta , Burdzińska Anna , Zielniok Katarzyna , Siennicka Katarzyna , Struzik Sławomir , Zielenkiewicz Piotr , Pączek Leszek
Published: February 2020

Background. Copper belongs to the essential trace metals that play a key role in the course of cellular processes maintaining the whole body’s homeostasis. As there is a growing interest in transplanting mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) into the site of injury to improve the regeneration of damaged tendons, the purpose of the study was to verify whether copper supplementation may have a positive effect on the properties of human adipose tissue-derived MSCs (hASCs) which potentially can contribute to improvement of tendon healing. Results. Cellular respiration of hASCs decreased with increasing cupric sulfate concentrations after 5 days of incubation. The treatment with CuSO4 did not positively affect the expression of genes associated with tenogenesis (COL1α1, COL3α1, MKX, and SCX). However, the level of COL1α1 protein, whose transcript was decreased in comparison to a control, was elevated after a 5-day exposition to 25 μM CuSO4. The content of the MKX and SCX protein in hASCs exposed to cupric sulfate was reduced compared to that of untreated control cells, and the level of the COL3α1 protein remained unchanged. The addition of cupric sulfate to hASCs’ medium increased the activity of lysyl oxidase which was positively correlated with concentration of CuSO4. Moreover, a high level of CuSO4 stimulated the action of intracellular superoxide dysmutase. The hASC secretion profile after a 5-day exposure to 50 μM cupric sulfate differed from that of untreated cells and was similar to the secretion profile of human tenocytes. Additionally, cupric sulfate increased secretion of CXCL12 in hASCs. Furthermore, the exposition to the CuSO4 significantly increased directed migration of human ASCs in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion. Copper sulfate supplementation can have a beneficial effect on tendon regeneration not by inducing tenogenic differentiation, but by improving the recruitment of MSCs to the site of injury, where they can secrete growth factors, cytokines and chemokines, and prevent the effects of oxidative stress at the site of inflammation, as well as improve the stabilization of collagen fibers, thereby accelerating the process of tendon healing.
Botnet Forensic Analysis Using Machine Learning
Authors: Bijalwan Anchit
Published: February 2020

Botnet forensic analysis helps in understanding the nature of attacks and the modus operandi used by the attackers. Botnet attacks are difficult to trace because of their rapid pace, epidemic nature, and smaller size. Machine learning works as a panacea for botnet attack related issues. It not only facilitates detection but also helps in prevention from bot attack. The proposed inquisition model endeavors improved quality of results by comprehensive botnet detection and forensic analysis. This scenario has been applied in eight different combinations of ensemble classifier technique to detect botnet evidence. The study is also compared to the ensemble-based classifiers with the single classifier using different parameters. The results exhibit that the proposed model can improve accuracy over a single classifier.
Propofol Causes Consciousness Loss by Affecting GABA-A Receptor in the Nucleus Basalis of Rats
Authors: Xing Yunlong , Li Kai , Jiao Yuan , Li Zinan
Published: February 2020

Objective. Propofol is a classical anesthetic and induces consciousness loss, and gamma-aminobutyric-acid-type-A (GABA-A) receptor is its target. Righting reflex is associated with conscious response. The nucleus basalis (NB) acts as a major relay between the reticular activating system and the frontal cortex (FC). Propofol may mediate righting reflex by affecting GABA-A receptor in NB. Methods. Fifty male SD rats (250-350 g) were divided into parts I and II. In part I, 20 male SD rats were randomly divided into control group (CG) and NB-lesion group (NG, ibotenic acid-induced NB lesion). In part II, 30 male SD rats were treated with saline (0.9% NaCl, SG group), muscimol (a GABA-A receptor agonist, MG group), and gabazine (a GABA-A receptor antagonist, GG group) in NB, respectively. Two weeks later, the activity of the rats was measured between CG and NG groups. The rats were intravenously injected with propofol (50 mg/kg/h) to test the time of loss of righting reflex (LORR) in all rats. When LORR occurred, the rats received single administration of propofol (12 mg/kg) to measure the time of return of righting reflex (RORR). Electroencephalogram (EEG) activity of the frontal cortex (FC) was recorded. Results. The numbers of NB neurons were reduced by 44% in the NG group compared to the CG group (p<0.05) whereas the activity of rats was reduced a little in the NG group when compared with the CG group, but the statistical difference was insignificant (p>0.05). The dose-response curve of propofol shifted to the left in the NG group, and the statistical difference for the time of LORR was insignificant between the two groups (p>0.05). However, the time of RORR and FC delta power increased in the NG group compared with the CG group (p<0.05). In part II, the time of RORR and FC powder increased in the MG group when compared to the SG group while reverse results were observed in the GG group (p<0.05). There was no significant influence on the time of LORR and ED50 among the three groups (p>0.05). Conclusions. The unilateral NB lesion increased the recovery time and FC delta power, and the NB region might be involved in the emergence after propofol administration. Propofol plays a crucial role for causing conscious loss by affecting GABA-A receptor in NB.
Gradenigo’s Syndrome with Carotid Septic Stenosis
Authors: Sousa Menezes Ana , Ribeiro Daniela , Balona Filipa , Maré Ricardo , Azevedo Cátia , Rocha Jaime , Dias Luís
Published: February 2020

Gradenigo’s syndrome was firstly described in 1907 by Giusseppe Gradenigo and is defined as the clinical triad of suppurative otitis media, ipsilateral abducens nerve palsy, and pain in the distribution of the first and the second branches of the trigeminal nerve. Since the advent of antibiotics, the incidence of this potentially life-threatening complication has diminished, but occasional cases still occur. We herein report a pediatric case of otitis media associated with Gradenigo’s syndrome complicated by ipsilateral septic cavernous sinus thrombosis and infectious arteritis of the internal carotid artery.
New Structural Seismic Isolation for Nuclear Containment Structures
Authors: Kasimzade Azer A. , Abrar Obaidullah , Kuruoglu Mehmet , Atmaca Gencay
Published: February 2020

The new Structural Seismic Isolation System (SSIS) intends to provide high safety for important structures such as nuclear power plants, offshore oil platforms, and high-rise buildings against near-fault and long-period earthquakes. The presented SSIS structure foot base and foundation contact surfaces have been designed as any curved surfaces (spherical, elliptical, etc.) depending on the earthquake-soil-superstructure parameters, and these contact surfaces have been separated by using elastomeric (lead core rubber or laminated rubber bearings with up to 4-second period) seismic isolation devices. It would allow providing inverse pendulum behavior to the structure. As a result of this behavior, the natural period of the structure will possess greater intervals which are larger than the predominant period of the majority of the possible earthquakes including near-fault zones. Consequently, the structure can maintain its serviceability after the occurrence of strong and long-period earthquakes. This study has investigated the performance of the SSIS for the nuclear containment (SSIS-NC) structure. The finite element model of SISS-NC structure has been developed, and nonlinear dynamic analysis of the model has been conducted under the strong and long-period ground motions. The results have been presented in comparison with the conventional application method of the seismic base isolation devices for nuclear containment (CAMSBID-NC) and fixed base nuclear containment (FB-NC) structures. The base and top accelerations, effective stress, and critical shear stress responses of the SSIS-NC structure are 48.67%, 36.70%, and 32.60% on average lower than those of CAMSBID-NC structure, respectively. The result also confirms that the SSIS-NC structure did not cause resonant vibrations under long-period earthquakes. On the other hand, there is excessive deformation in the isolation layers of CAMSBID-NC structure.
Molecular Profile of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors in Sixty-Eight Patients from a Single Swiss Institution
Authors: Haefliger Simon , Marston Katharina , Juskevicius Darius , Meyer-Schaller Nathalie , Forster Anja , Nicolet Stefan , Komminoth Paul , Stauffer Edouard , Cathomas Gieri , Hoeller Sylvia , Tornillo Luigi , Dirnhofer Stefan , Terracciano Luigi M. , Bihl Michel , Matter Matthias S. 
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is the most common mesenchymal neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract. It has distinct molecular features and primarily affects the KIT and PDGFRA genes. Objective: We wanted to assess the molecular profile of 68 GIST patients who were sequenced consecutively between 2014 and 2019 at our institute of pathology. Methods: Our cohort comprised 60 primary and 8 metastatic GIST patients; 43 and 57% of the cases, respectively, were analyzed by Sanger sequencing or next-generation sequencing (NGS). Results: Of the 60 primary GIST patients, 47 (78%) showed a KIT mutation; 2 cases showed a double KIT mutation, and 1 of these was a therapy-naive GIST. Nine (15%) patients harbored a PDGFRA mutation, 2 (3%) had a BRAF mutation, 1 (2%) had a PIK3CA mutation, and 1 (2%) did not show any mutation. One BRAF and the PIK3CA mutation have not been described in GIST before. All metastatic GIST harbored exclusively KIT mutations. Conclusion: A retrospective analysis of GIST sequenced at our institute revealed incidences of KIT and PDGFRA mutations comparable to those in other cohorts from Europe. Interestingly, we found 2 previously undescribed mutations in the BRAF and PIK3CA genes as well as 1 treatment-naive case with a double KIT mutation in exon 11.
Optical Measurements during Asleep Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery along Vim-Zi Trajectories
Authors: Zsigmond Peter , Wårdell Karin
Published: February 2020

Background: Optics can be used for guidance in deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery. The aim was to use laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) to investigate the intraoperative optical trajectory along the ventral intermediate nucleus (VIM) and zona incerta (Zi) regions in patients with essential tremor during asleep DBS surgery, and whether the Zi region could be identified. Methods: A forward-looking LDF guide was used for creation of the trajectory for the DBS lead, and the microcirculation and tissue greyness, i.e., total light intensity (TLI) was measured along 13 trajectories. TLI trajectories and the number of high-perfusion spots were investigated at 0.5-mm resolution in the last 25 mm from the targets. Results: All implantations were done without complications and with significant improvement of tremor (p < 0.01). Out of 798 measurements, 12 tissue spots showed high blood flow. The blood flow was significantly higher in VIM than in Zi (p < 0.001). The normalized mean TLI curve showed a significant (p < 0.001) lower TLI in the VIM region than in the Zi region. Conclusion: Zi DBS performed asleep appears to be safe and effective. LDF monitoring provides direct in vivomeasurement of the microvascular blood flow in front of the probe, which can help reduce the risk of hemorrhage. LDF can differentiate between the grey substance in the thalamus and the transmission border entering the posterior subthalamic area where the tissue consists of more white matter tracts.
Global, Regional and Country-Specific Burden of Ischaemic Stroke, Intracerebral Haemorrhage and Subarachnoid Haemorrhage: A Systematic Analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2017
Authors: Krishnamurthi Rita V. , Ikeda Takayoshi , Feigin Valery L.
Published: February 2020

Background: Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in globally and particularly in low- and middle-income countries, and this burden is increasing. The burden of stroke pathological subtypes varies in terms of incidence, disability and mortality. Previous Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Studies (GBD) reports did not provide separate global burden and trends estimates for haemorrhagic stroke by primary intracerebral haemorrhage (PICH) and subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH). Aim: To summarise the GBD 2017 findings for the burden and 27-year trends for ischaemic stroke (IS), intracerebral haemorrhage and SAH by age, sex and country income level in 21 world regions and associated risk factors. Methods: Data on stroke incidence, prevalence, mortality and disability-adjusted life-years (DALY) lost and the burden of IS, PICH and SAH were derived from all available datasets from the GBD 2017 studies. Data were analysed in terms of absolute numbers and age-standardised rates per 100,000 (95% uncertainty interval [UI]), with estimates stratified by age, sex and economic development level by the World Bank classification. We also analysed changes in the patterns of incidence, mortality and DALYs estimates between 1990 and 2017. Results: In 2017, there were 11.9 million incident (95% UI 11.1–12.8), 104.2 million prevalent (98.6–110.2), 6.2 million fatal (6.0–6.3) cases of stroke and 132.1 million stroke-related DALYs (126.5–137.4). Although stroke incidence, prevalence, mortality and DALY rates declined from 1990 to 2017, the absolute number of people who developed new stroke, died, survived or remained disabled from stroke has almost doubled. The bulk of stroke burden (80% all incident strokes, 77% all stroke survivors, 87% of all deaths from stroke and 89 of all stroke-related DALYs) in 2017 was in low- to middle-income countries. Globally in 2017, IS constituted 65%, PICH –26% and SAH –9% of all incident strokes. Discussion: The latest GBD estimates of stroke burden in 195 countries supersede previous GBD stroke burden findings and provide most accurate data for stroke care planning and resource allocation globally, regionally and for 195 countries. Stroke remains the second leading cause of deaths and disability worldwide. The increased stroke burden continues to exacerbate a huge pressure on people affected by stroke, their families and societies. It is imperative to develop and implement more effective primary prevention strategies to reduce stroke burden and its impact.
Lower Oxytocin Levels Are Associated with Lower Bone Mineral Density and Less Favorable Hip Geometry in Hypopituitary Men
Authors: Aulinas Anna , Guarda Francisco J. , Yu Elaine W. , Haines Melanie S. , Asanza Elisa , Silva Lisseth , Tritos Nicholas A. , Verbalis Joseph , Miller Karen K. , Lawson Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2020

Introduction: Hypopituitary patients are at risk for bone loss. Hypothalamic-posterior pituitary hormones oxytocin and vasopressin are anabolic and catabolic, respectively, to the skeleton. Patients with hypopituitarism may be at risk for oxytocin deficiency. Whether oxytocin and/or vasopressin contribute to impaired bone homeostasis in hypopituitarism is unknown. Objectives: To determine the relationship between plasma oxytocin and vasopressin levels and bone characteristics (bone mineral density [BMD] and hip structural analysis [HSA]) in patients who have anterior pituitary deficiencies only (APD group) or with central diabetes insipidus (CDI group). Methods: This is a cross-sectional study. Subjects included 37 men (17 CDI and 20 APD), aged 20–60 years. Main outcome measures were fasting plasma oxytocin and vasopressin levels, and BMD and HSA using dual X-ray absorptiometry. Results: Mean BMD and HSA variables did not differ between the CDI and APD groups. Mean BMD Z-scores at most sites were lower in those participants who had fasting oxytocin levels below, rather than above, the median. There were positive associations between fasting oxytocin levels and (1) BMD Z-scores at the spine, femoral neck, total hip, and subtotal body and (2) favorable hip geometry and strength variables at the intertrochanteric region in CDI, but not APD, participants. No associations between vasopressin levels and bone variables were observed in the CDI or ADP groups. Conclusions: This study provides evidence for a relationship between oxytocin levels and BMD and estimated hip geometry and strength in hypopituitarism with CDI. Future studies will be important to determine whether oxytocin could be used therapeutically to optimize bone health in patients with hypopituitarism.
Microscopic Ophthalmic Surgery Using a Freely Movable Arm Support Robot: Basic Experiment and Clinical Experience
Authors: Okamura Chikako , Kojima Takashi , Tokiwa Seiji , Hasegawa Asato , Tanaka Yoshiki , Ichikawa Kazuo
Published: February 2020

Introduction: The disadvantage of conventional armrests is the difficulty to adjust their height and position during surgery. Objectives: We investigated whether a freely movable armrest (FMA) that follows the surgeon’s arm is useful for reducing surgeon fatigue and arm tremors and for improving surgical accuracy. Methods: In the basic study, a corneal suture was placed in porcine eyes with FMA (FMA group) or without FMA (non-FMA group). The suture was intended to pass through two points. Tremor was quantified using motion-tracking software when the needle was held. Subjective symptoms of arm-related fatigue were scored using a questionnaire. Suturing accuracy was compared between the groups. In the clinical study, the same surgeon performed corneal transplantation, cataract surgery, and glaucoma surgery with or without FMA. Fatigue scores from the questionnaire were then compared. Results: In the basic study, hand tremor at rest was significantly improved with FMA (p < 0.0001). The subjective arm fatigue score was significantly reduced (p = 0.0465), while the subjective tremor score was also significantly improved (p = 0.0453). There were no differences in the accuracy of corneal suturing with or without FMA. In the clinical study, the total and arm-related fatigue scores during corneal transplantation and glaucoma surgery tended to improve. Conclusions: FMA is a useful tool for fixing the surgeon’s arm in any position and may improve the quality of ophthalmic surgery by reducing hand tremor and fatigue.
Taxonomic notes on Onosma wardii (Boraginaceae) from Southwestern China

Authors: HE YI , HUANG TI-RAN , LIU DAN-HUI , LIU QUAN-RU
Published: February 2020

Critical examination of herbarium specimens and living plants has shown that Onosma mertensioides, O. tenuicaulis, O. zayuensis, O. xiangchengensis are conspecific with O. wardii, so the previous four names are here relegated to the synonymy of the latter.
Description of the sexual generation of Dryocosmus destefanii (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae: Cynipini) and disclosure of its life cycle
Authors: CERASA GIULIANO , VERDE GABRIELLA LO , CALECA VIRGILIO , MASSA BRUNO , NICHOLLS JAMES A. , MELIKA GEORGE
Published: February 2020

The sexual generation of Dryocosmus destefanii Cerasa & Melika, 2018 that emerges from galls on Q. suber L. in Italy is described for the first time, establishing its heterogonic life cycle. We provide observations on its distribution, illustration of adults and galls and information on its biology as supported by morphological and molecular data. An illustrated identification key to Western Palaearctic Dryocosmus species is also given.
What Drives the Intensification of Mesoscale Convective Systems over the West African Sahel under Climate Change?
Authors: Fitzpatrick Rory G. J. , Parker Douglas J. , Marsham John H. , Rowell David P. , Guichard Francoise M. , Taylor Chris M. , Cook Kerry H. , Vizy Edward K. , Jackson Lawrence S. , Finney Declan , Crook Julia , Stratton Rachel , Tucker Simon
Published: February 2020

Extreme rainfall is expected to increase under climate change, carrying potential socioeconomic risks. However, the magnitude of increase is uncertain. Over recent decades, extreme storms over the West African Sahel have increased in frequency, with increased vertical wind shear shown to be a cause. Drier midlevels, stronger cold pools, and increased storm organization have also been observed. Global models do not capture the potential effects of lower- to midtropospheric wind shear or cold pools on storm organization since they parameterize convection. Here we use the first convection-permitting simulations of African climate change to understand how changes in thermodynamics and storm dynamics affect future extreme Sahelian rainfall. The model, which simulates warming associated with representative concentration pathway 8.5 (RCP8.5) until the end of the twenty-first century, projects a 28% increase of the extreme rain rate of MCSs. The Sahel moisture change on average follows Clausius–Clapeyron scaling, but has regional heterogeneity. Rain rates scale with the product of time-of-storm total column water (TCW) and in-storm vertical velocity. Additionally, prestorm wind shear and convective available potential energy both modulate in-storm vertical velocity. Although wind shear affects cloud-top temperatures within our model, it has no direct correlation with precipitation rates. In our model, projected future increase in TCW is the primary explanation for increased rain rates. Finally, although colder cold pools are modeled in the future climate, we see no significant change in near-surface winds, highlighting avenues for future research on convection-permitting modeling of storm dynamics.
Two Interpolation Methods Using Multiply-Rotated Piecewise Cubic Hermite Interpolating Polynomials
Authors: Barker Paul M. , McDougall Trevor J.
Published: February 2020

Two interpolation methods are presented, both of which use multiple Piecewise Cubic Hermite Interpolating Polynomials (PCHIPs). The first method is based on performing 16 PCHIPs on 8 rotated versions of the plot of the data versus an independent variable (such as pressure or time). These 16 PCHIPs are then used to form 8 interpolations of the original data, and finally, these 8 are averaged. When the original data are unevenly spaced with respect to the independent variable, we show that it is best to perform the Multiply-Rotated PCHIP (MR-PCHIP) method using the “data index” as the independent variable, and then to subsequently perform one last PCHIP of the data index with respect to the original independent variable. This MR-PCHIP method avoids the flat spots that are a feature of the PCHIP method when the data have multiple values approximately equal to a local extreme value. The MR-PCHIP interpolated data have continuous first derivatives at the data points. This method also avoids the unrealistic overshoots that can occur when using the standard cubic spline interpolation procedure. The second interpolation method is designed specifically for hydrographic data with the aim of minimizing the formation of unrealistic water masses by the interpolation procedure. This is achieved by applying a Piecewise Cubic Hermite Interpolating Polynomial to each of 8 rotations of the salinity versus temperature plot (Multiply-Rotated Salinity–Temperature PCHIP, MRST-PCHIP) with bottle number (that is, data index) as the vertical interpolating coordinate, thereby making the MRST-PCHIP method independent of the heave of a water column. This method is equivalent to interpolating in the salinity–temperature diagram, and MRST-PCHIP proves very effective at avoiding the production of anomalous water masses that otherwise occur when interpolating temperature and salinity separately.
Why internet users’ perceptions of viewing child exploitation material matter for prevention policies
Authors: Hunn Charlotte , Spiranovic Caroline , Prichard Jeremy , Gelb Karen
Published: February 2020

There are claims that the societal appetite for ‘child exploitation material’ is increasing. Yet, Australia’s policy response does not include initiatives to dissuade potential offenders from deliberately viewing child exploitation material for the first time (onset). To critically examine this issue, this paper draws on Situational Crime Prevention theory. It argues that (a) many first-time child exploitation material viewers fit the Situational Crime Prevention construct of the Opportunistic Offender and (b) suggests that current policy overlooks the kinds of non-instrumental factors that increase the risk of onset for this group, including doubts about the criminality and harmfulness of viewing child exploitation material. The paper then empirically examines social attitudes to child exploitation material viewing by presenting the findings of a survey of 504 Australian internet users. Results indicate that a sizeable minority of the participants were: unaware that it is a crime to view certain types of child exploitation material in Australia; and held doubts about the harmfulness of viewing child exploitation material. These findings are used to reflect on how the presence of these non-instrumental factors among ordinary internet users may affect the offending readiness of the Opportunistic Offender. Policy implications are then briefly discussed.
Missing the mark or scoring a goal? Achieving non-discrimination for students with disability in primary and secondary education in Australia: A scoping review
Authors: Duncan Jill , Punch Renée , Gauntlett Mark , Talbot-Stokes Ruth
Published: February 2020

Australia has legislation in the form of the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) and the Disability Standards for Education 2005 (Cth) that has the objective of eliminating disability discrimination. The purpose of this scoping review was to determine the extent to which this legislation is achieving the elimination of discrimination against students with disability in primary and secondary schooling. The review reports on the findings of a systematic search of law and education databases that identified 18 peer-reviewed articles discussing the legislation, relevant literature and related case law in the context of the education of students with disability in Australia. Content analysis of the articles indicated the existence of problems in several areas of the intersection between the law, policy and practice. These are outlined under five key themes: inclusion/exclusion, jurisdictions and definitions, the complaints-driven system, legislation clarity and reasonable adjustments. The review concludes with recommendations and suggestions for action.
Assessing the Validity and Accuracy of Online Videos on Vaccine Health Risks
Authors: Murphy Meggan , Nanadiego Frances Anne , McCavera Laura , Nichols Cory , Kalekas Paul , Wachs Daliah
Published: February 2020

Incongruent vaccination rates have been found in multiple US cities, one cause possibly being misleading information that is easily available on the internet through text and videos. Health care providers should be aware of the extent and content of online health information available to patients and their guardians to enhance the effectiveness of patient-physician communication. This study obtained data on vaccine-related YouTube videos and analyzed the videos’ content. When misleading information was found in a video, the timing and specific type of misleading information was noted. More than two thirds of the YouTube videos contained some type of unreliable information regarding vaccine safety and effectiveness. Much of the information accessible to patients and parents vaccinating their children is misleading to a potentially dangerous extent. Health care providers should be aware of and able to provide clear counter-evidence to misleading information on YouTube in light of the findings.
A reproducible educational plan to teach mini autonomous race car programming
Authors: Eken Süleyman , Şara Muhammed , Satılmış Yusuf , Karslı Münir , Tufan Muhammet Furkan , Menhour Houssem , Sayar Ahmet
Published: February 2020

As autonomous cars and complex features of them grow in popularity, ensuring that analyses and capabilities are reproducible and repeatable has taken on importance in education plans too. This paper describes a reproducible research plan on mini autonomous race car programming. This educational plan is designed and implemented as part of a summer internship program at Kocaeli University and it consists of theoretical courses and laboratory assignments. A literate programming approach with the Python language is used for programming the race car. To assess the educational program’s impact on the learning process and to evaluate the acceptance and satisfaction level of students, they answered an electronic questionnaire after finishing the program. According to students’ feedback, the reproducible educational program is useful for learning and consolidating new concepts of mini autonomous car programming.
The Role of Social Movements in Strengthening Health Systems: The Experience of the National Health Forum in El Salvador (2009–2018)
Authors: León Montserrat , Jiménez Marta , Vidal Nicole , Bermúdez Keven , De Vos Pol
Published: February 2020

In 2009, the newly elected FMLN government of El Salvador launched a comprehensive health reform, which gave the National Health Forum (NHF) a key role in developing community participation. This study aims to examine and analyze the content and impact of this social movement during the study period 2009–2018. The context was analyzed through relevant documents, which helped identify key stakeholders. Semi-structured interviews took place at 3 levels of decision making: the political level, the health professionals, and the community. Data were analyzed using a qualitative methodology. Participation is carried by a structure created by the Ministry of Health, the National Health Forum. The NHF developed 3 strategies: (1) leadership building in the communities through the strengthening of social, political, and economic skills, where they developed social accountability mechanisms at all decision-making levels of the health system; (2) the strategy carried by the sectoral working groups, where they responded to prioritized needs identified by the community; and (3) advocacy for human rights-based policies. The NHF, and its role in the strengthening of the National Public Health System, provides strong evidence of community participation strategies and co-governance with the health system within the social determinants of health scope.
Improving Oral Cancer Outcomes with Imaging and Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Ilhan B. , Lin K. , Guneri P. , Wilder-Smith P.
Published: February 2020

Early diagnosis is the most important determinant of oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) outcomes, yet most of these cancers are detected late, when outcomes are poor. Typically, nonspecialists such as dentists screen for oral cancer risk, and then they refer high-risk patients to specialists for biopsy-based diagnosis. Because the clinical appearance of oral mucosal lesions is not an adequate indicator of their diagnosis, status, or risk level, this initial triage process is inaccurate, with poor sensitivity and specificity. The objective of this study is to provide an overview of emerging optical imaging modalities and novel artificial intelligence–based approaches, as well as to evaluate their individual and combined utility and implications for improving oral cancer detection and outcomes. The principles of image-based approaches to detecting oral cancer are placed within the context of clinical needs and parameters. A brief overview of artificial intelligence approaches and algorithms is presented, and studies that use these 2 approaches singly and together are cited and evaluated. In recent years, a range of novel imaging modalities has been investigated for their applicability to improving oral cancer outcomes, yet none of them have found widespread adoption or significantly affected clinical practice or outcomes. Artificial intelligence approaches are beginning to have considerable impact in improving diagnostic accuracy in some fields of medicine, but to date, only limited studies apply to oral cancer. These studies demonstrate that artificial intelligence approaches combined with imaging can have considerable impact on oral cancer outcomes, with applications ranging from low-cost screening with smartphone-based probes to algorithm-guided detection of oral lesion heterogeneity and margins using optical coherence tomography. Combined imaging and artificial intelligence approaches can improve oral cancer outcomes through improved detection and diagnosis.
Insights Obtained by Culturing Saccharibacteria With Their Bacterial Hosts
Authors: Bor B. , Collins A.J. , Murugkar P.P. , Balasubramanian S. , To T.T. , Hendrickson E.L. , Bedree J.K. , Bidlack F.B. , Johnston C.D. , Shi W. , McLean J.S. , He X. , Dewhirst F.E.
Published: February 2020

Oral microbiome research has moved from asking “Who’s there?” to “What are they doing?” Understanding what microbes “do” involves multiple approaches, including obtaining genomic information and examining the interspecies interactions. Recently we isolated a human oral Saccharibacteria (TM7) bacterium, HMT-952, strain TM7x, which is an ultrasmall parasite of the oral bacterium Actinomyces odontolyticus. The host-parasite interactions, such as phage-bacterium or Saccharibacteria–host bacterium, are understudied areas with large potential for insight. The Saccharibacteria phylum is a member of Candidate Phyla Radiation, a large lineage previously devoid of cultivated members. However, expanding our understanding of Saccharibacteria-host interactions requires examining multiple phylogenetically distinct Saccharibacteria-host pairs. Here we report the isolation of 3 additional Saccharibacteria species from the human oral cavity in binary coculture with their bacterial hosts. They were obtained by filtering ultrasmall Saccharibacteria cells free of other larger bacteria and inoculating them into cultures of potential host bacteria. The binary cocultures obtained could be stably passaged and studied. Complete closed genomes were obtained and allowed full genome analyses. All have small genomes (<1 Mb) characteristic of parasitic species and dramatically limited de novo synthetic pathway capabilities but include either restriction modification or CRISPR-Cas systems as part of an innate defense against foreign DNA. High levels of gene synteny exist among Saccharibacteria species. Having isolates growing in coculture with their hosts allowed time course studies of growth and parasite-host interactions by phase contrast, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and scanning electron microscopy. The cells of the 4 oral Saccharibacteria species are ultrasmall and could be seen attached to their larger Actinobacteria hosts. Parasite attachment appears to lead to host cell death and lysis. The successful cultivation of Saccharibacteria species has significantly expanded our understanding of these ultrasmall Candidate Phyla Radiation bacteria.
Statistical sightings of better angels: Analysing the distribution of battle-deaths in interstate conflict over time
Authors: Cunen Céline , Hjort Nils Lid , Nygård Håvard Mokleiv
Published: February 2020

Have great wars become less violent over time, and is there something we might identify as the long peace? We investigate statistical versions of such questions, by examining the number of battle-deaths in the Correlates of War dataset, with 95 interstate wars from 1816 to 2007. Previous research has found this series of wars to be stationary, with no apparent change over time. We develop a framework to find and assess a change-point in this battle-deaths series. Our change-point methodology takes into consideration the power law distribution of the data, models the full battle-deaths distribution, as opposed to focusing merely on the extreme tail, and evaluates the uncertainty in the estimation. Using this framework, we find evidence that the series has not been as stationary as past research has indicated. Our statistical sightings of better angels indicate that 1950 represents the most likely change-point in the battle-deaths series – the point in time where the battle-deaths distribution might have changed for the better.
Dying With Dementia: Caregiver Observations of Their Family Members’ Physical Decline and Behavioral or Psychological Changes During Their Last Days
Authors: Hovland Cynthia A. , Mallett Christopher A.
Published: February 2020

Family caregivers of older persons with dementia have significant challenges across many domains. These reported problems encountered over their caregiving time are for many reasons, but what makes the caretaking difficult is complicated by both the unknown nature of the dementia disease and the dying trajectory. While there are studies, primarily from health-care professionals, of this dying process and the last few weeks of life for older persons with dementia, much less is known directly from the family caregivers’ perspectives and experiences. This qualitative study of 30 caregivers of family members aged 65 years and older who died with dementia-related diagnoses used in-depth qualitative interviews conducted over a 12-month period and directed content analysis to understand the data. The study asked what physical, behavioral, and psychological changes they observed and experienced during their family members’ last weeks of life. Three primary themes were identified around behavioral and psychological changes: (a) they become different people, (b) did not recognize caregiver, and (c) wandering and getting lost; and two primary themes identified physical decline: (a) system started shutting down and (b) drastically diminished self-sufficiency. Implications for families and professionals are reviewed and discussed.
The Bright and Dark Aspects of Grit in the Pursuit of Success
Authors: Houston John M. , Luchner Andrew , Davidson Alice J. , Gonzalez Jessica , Steigerwald Nina , Leftwich Charlotte
Published: February 2020

Grit, defined as passion and perseverance for long-term goals, predicts success in a number of social domains. The present two studies examined grit and its subscales, and how these relate to both adaptive and maladaptive personality traits pertaining to success. For Study 1, based on data from 249 participants, results indicated that grit was correlated positively with proactive personality, personal growth initiative, and competitiveness, and the perseverance subscale also was correlated positively with self- and other-oriented perfectionism. The findings of Study 1 led us to further explore the dark aspects of grit in Study 2: based on data from 222 participants, results indicated that grit was correlated negatively with Machiavellianism, hypercompetitiveness, and most forms of narcissism but positively correlated with adaptive grandiose narcissism. Collectively, results reveal grit to be a positive, adaptive trait but raise questions regarding the perfectionistic tendencies of gritty individuals and the unitary nature of the construct.
Success of Big Infectious Disease Reimbursement Policy in China
Authors: Nie Kun-xi , Wang Chan , Li Xin-wu
Published: February 2020

Big infectious diseases do harm to the whole society, and it is highly crucial to control them on time. The major purpose of this article is to theoretically demonstrate that the Chinese government’s intervention in large-scale infectious diseases is successful and efficient. Two potential strategies were considered: strategy 1 was infectious disease without government intervention, and strategy 2 was infectious disease with government intervention. By evolution model, this article illustrates the efficiency of big infectious disease reimbursement policy in China. Without government reimbursement, this article finds that high expenditures accelerate the disease infection. The number of infected persons decreases under big infectious disease reimbursement policy in China. The higher the treatment costs, the more important the government intervention. Big infectious disease reimbursement policy in China can serve as an efficient example to cope with big infectious diseases.
The Rule of Law in the Age of Statutes
Authors: Crawford Lisa B
Published: February 2020

This article provides an empirical analysis of the legislative practice of the Australian Parliament and considers its implications for the rule of law. Federal legislation is so voluminous, complex and changeable that it risks diminishing the rule of law, in the sense that it makes the law difficult to know. This could be potentially ameliorated by Australian courts embracing Chevron-style deference, or an administrative law doctrine of legitimate expectations, but neither option is ideal. More broadly, the article comments upon the way in which the rule of law and legislation should be understood in a modern administrative state.
Adaptive nonlinear disturbance observer-based control for stochastic systems with multiple heterogeneous disturbances
Authors: Li Xinqing , Wei Xinjiang , Zhang Huifeng , Han Jian , Hu Xin , Liu Xiuhua
Published: February 2020

The problem of anti-disturbance control is studied for a class of stochastic systems with multiple heterogeneous disturbances, which include three kinds of disturbance. One is the non-harmonic disturbance coupled with system state and control input. The other one is an unexpected nonlinear signal described as a nonlinear function. The third one is white noise. An adaptive nonlinear disturbance observer (ANDO) is constructed to estimate non-harmonic disturbance. Based on which, a new adaptive nonlinear disturbance observer-based control (ANDOBC) strategy is developed such that the composite system is asymptotically bounded in mean square. Simulation results are given to show its effectiveness of the proposed method.
Steroids Inhibit Eosinophil Accumulation and Downregulate Hematopoietic Chemotaxic Prostaglandin D2 Receptor in Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease
Authors: Suzuki Norio , Ko-Mitamura Elizabeth P. , Inui Takaki , Terada Tetsuya , Dejima Kenji , Nagata Nanae , Urade Yoshihiro , Kawata Ryo
Published: February 2020

Background:

Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is characterized by eosinophilic rhinosinusitis, nasal polyposis, aspirin sensitivity, and asthma. Aims/Objectives: This study aims to identify a mechanism to target for the future treatment of AERD via the elucidation of the effect of systemic steroids on the expression of hematopoietic prostaglandin D2 synthase (HPGDS) and chemotaxic prostaglandin D2 (DP2) receptor relative to eosinophil activation in the nasal polyps of patients with AERD.

Materials and Methods:

Among 37 patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery, 28 received systemic steroids preoperatively. Nasal polyps were harvested from all 37 patients. After routine processing of paraffin sections, immunohistochemistry was performed using specific antibodies for HPGDS, eosinophil peroxidase (EPX), and DP2.

Results:

Expression of HPGDS, DP2, and EPX by eosinophils was higher and more frequent in patients with non-preoperative steroid therapy. Likewise, HPGDS and DP2 were highly expressed in activated eosinophils in the nasal polyps, but not in normal eosinophils.

Conclusion and Significance:

This study provides clear evidence that systemic steroid therapy inhibits eosinophil activation and decreases HPGDS and DP2 expression in patients with AERD, indicating a reduction in prostaglandin D2 production and hence control hyperplasia of nasal polyps.