bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gogorevia, a New Monoraphid Diatom Genus for Achnanthes exigua and Allied Taxa (Achnanthidiaceae) Described on the Basis of an Integrated Molecular and Morphological Approach
Authors: Kulikovskiy Maxim , Maltsev Yevhen , Glushchenko Anton , Kuznetsova Irina , Kapustin Dmitry , Gusev Evgeniy , Lange‐Bertalot Horst , Genkal Sergei , Kociolek John Patrick
Published: September 2020

A new diatom genus, Gogorevia, is described on the basis of an integrated molecular and morphological investigation. Two species are described from Vietnam: the generitype, G. rinatii sp. nov., and G. ovalis sp. nov. These species share many morphological features with Achnanthes exigua and allied taxa that were previously transferred to the genera Achnanthidium or Lemnicola. Our current molecular investigation shows that Gogorevia is distinct and phylogenetically removed from the above‐mentioned genera. Morphologically, Gogorevia differs from Achnanthidium and Lemnicola by the shape of the valves, possessing uniseriate striae, raphe morphology, and the presence of an evident sternum. The recently described species Lemnicola uniseriata is transferred to Gogorevia on the basis that it possesses the same morphological features and phylogenetic position as other members of the genus.
Real‐world safety and effectiveness of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 1 in Japan
Authors: Mizokami Masashi , Liu Lauren J. , Fujiyama Naoto , Littman Marcus , Yuan Jason , Sekiya Tomoko , Hedskog Charlotte , Ng Leslie J.
Published: September 2020

As patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) tend to be older and/or have advanced liver disease in Japan, real‐world data are needed to evaluate safe and effective treatment options. The study aim was to assess safety and effectiveness of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF) in a real‐world cohort of Japanese patients with HCV genotype (GT) 1 infection overall and by patient subgroups: elderly, compensated cirrhotic, advanced fibrotic and those with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A large prospective observational study was conducted, enrolling adult patients treated for HCV GT1 infection with LDV/SOF at clinical sites across Japan. Patients were observed for safety outcomes during and 4 weeks after treatment, and for sustained virologic response at 12‐weeks post‐treatment (SVR12). Incidence rates (IRs) of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and serious ADRs (SADRs) and SVR12 rates were assessed overall and by subgroups. ADR and SADR IRs were low (2.26 and 0.17 per 100 person‐months, respectively) and did not significantly differ in elderly patients or those with presence of compensated cirrhosis, worsening fibrosis or HCC. SVR12 rates were high overall (98.5%) and across subgroups investigated (≥94%), including patients who were elderly (98.2%), treatment‐experienced (97.6%), advanced fibrotic (≥95.8%), had existing NS5A resistance‐associated substitutions reported pre‐treatment (95.0%), compensated cirrhosis (95.7%), HCC (94.0%) and other chronic liver diseases (96.1%). In this large, real‐world observational study of Japanese patients with HCV GT1 infection, LDV/SOF treatment resulted in low incidence of adverse events, with high real‐world effectiveness, even among patients with potentially higher risks of adverse safety outcomes and treatment failure.
Sooner, closer, or longer: detectability of mesocarnivores at camera traps
Authors: Tourani M. , Brøste E. N. , Bakken S. , Odden J. , Bischof R.
Published: September 2020

Camera trapping, paired with analytical methods for estimating species occurrence, population size or density, can yield information with direct consequences for wildlife management and conservation. Detectability, the ability to detect a species or individual if it is present, affects the reliability and efficiency of camera trap surveys and, in turn, varies across species, space and time. Greater detectability means greater sample size, and a common approach to boost detectability of wildlife by camera traps involves the application of olfactory lures. Using a camera trap study on sympatric mesocarnivores (European badger Meles meles, red fox Vulpes vulpes, pine marten Martes martes and domestic cat Felis catus), we quantified three elements of detectability: (1) the time until first detection (‘sooner’, conditional on being present), (2) the proximity to a focal point in front of the camera (‘closer’, conditional on being detected) and (3) the duration of exposure to the camera (‘longer’, conditional on being detected). A hierarchical analytical approach and a quasi‐experimental setup allowed us to test for and quantify the species‐specific effect of olfactory lures on these aspects of detectability. Depending on species, average median time to first detection ranged from 4 to 28 days, distance to the focal point from 0.3 to 0.8 body lengths, and median time to departure from 2 to 6  seconds. Credible intervals overlapped substantially between most species in all three measures, and variation between observations was extensive. We detected effects of lures on time to first detection for cats (castoreum; American beaver Castor canadensis scent), distance to focal point for badgers (striped skunk Mephitis mephitis scent) and martens (castoreum, fox and skunk scents), and the duration of exposure for foxes (fox and skunk scents). We discuss how a multifaceted perspective on detectability in camera trap studies, linked with species biology, can give investigators a more structured approach to selecting and testing measures intended to boost detection probability.
Morphological and functional variation between isolated populations of British red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris)
Authors: Cox P. G. , Morris P. J. R. , Hennekam J. J. , Kitchener A. C.
Published: September 2020

Isolation due to habitat fragmentation can lead to morphological and functional variation between populations, with the effect being well documented in rodents. Here, we investigated whether such morphological variation could be identified between British populations of the Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris). This species was once widespread across Great Britain, but suffered a severe population decline across the 20th century, leaving a highly fragmented distribution. The aim was to test for morphological and biomechanical variation of the mandible between the remaining British red squirrel populations, and between British and continental European red squirrels. Linear and geometric morphometric methods were used to analyse shape in a sample of over 250 red squirrel hemi‐mandibles from across Britain plus a sample from Germany representing the central European subspecies. Procrustes ANOVA identified significant shape variation between populations, with particularly distinct differences being noted between red squirrels from Germany and several British red squirrel populations, which may reflect their evolutionary history. Linear biomechanical measurements showed that the red squirrels from Formby and Jersey had a significantly lower mechanical advantage of the temporalis muscle than other British populations, suggesting they were less efficient at gnawing. This functional difference may be related to many factors, such as founder effect, potential inbreeding and/or past supplemental feeding with less mechanically resistant food items.
Reducing the effect of sample bias for small data sets with double‐weighted support vector transfer regression
Authors: Luo Huan , Paal Stephanie German
Published: September 2020

Small data sets are an extremely challenging problem in the machine learning (ML) realm, and in specific, in regression scenarios, as the lack of relevant data can lead to ML models that have large bias. However, there are many applications for which a purely data‐driven procedure would be advantageous, but a large amount of data are not available. This article proposes a novel regression‐based transfer learning (TL) model to address this challenge, where TL is defined as knowledge transfer from a large, relevant data set (source domain data) to a small data set (target domain data). The proposed TL model is termed double‐weighted support vector transfer regression (DW‐SVTR), which couples least squares support vector machines for regression (LS‐SVMR) with two weight functions. The first weight function uses kernel mean matching (KMM) to reweight the source domain data such that the mean values of the source and target domain data in a reproduced kernel Hilbert space (RKHS) are close. In this way, the source domain data points relevant to the target domain points have a larger weight than irrelevant source domain points. The second weight is a function of estimated residuals, which aims to further reduce the negative interference of irrelevant source domain points. The proposed approach is assessed and validated via simulated data and by enhanced shear strength prediction of nonductile columns based on limited availability of nonductile column data. Specifically, the results for the latter show that the proposed DW‐SVTR can reduce the root mean square error (RMSE) by 34% and enhance the coefficient of determination (R2) by 229%. These numerical results demonstrate that the DW‐SVTR significantly reduces the effect of small sample bias and improves prediction performance compared to standard ML methods.
Central venous catheters misplaced in paraspinal veins: A systematic literature review based on case reports
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxia , Chen Hongxiu , Feng Liwei , Cai Yujia , Yin Wanhong , Hu Xiuying , Liu Chang
Published: September 2020

Background

Paraspinal vein misplacement is an uncommon complication of central venous catheterization via lower extremities, most of which have been reported in case reports.

Aim

To determine the clinical characteristics of paraspinal vein misplacement.

Design

This was a systematic review.

Methods

A systematic literature search in the PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases was performed from their inception to 18 June 2019. Case reports and small case series describing central venous catheter misplacement in the paraspinal vein were included. Data on the catheterization procedure, catheter tip position, complications, and radiographic features of misplacement were extracted.

Results

Thirty studies with a total of 36 patients were included. The ascending lumbar vein accounted for the majority of misplacements (n = 30), followed by the lumbar vein (n = 4), iliolumbar vein (n = 1), and vertebral venous plexus (n = 1). Six patients had eventful catheterization procedures. Twenty‐six patients experienced misplacement‐induced complications, of whom seven died. The most common complications included cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities, neurological symptoms, and deteriorated respiration. Among the entire case cohort, the onset of complications was the primary sign that alerted medical staff to misplacement (n = 23). The typical radiographic characteristics were posterior deviation of the catheter course overlapping with the spine on lateral X‐rays and a bend, kink, or hump in the catheter course on anteroposterior X‐rays at the L4 to L5 levels.

Conclusions

Nurses should be aware of this particular complication if a patient who has undergone catheterization via a lower extremity presents deterioration of neurological function and respiration.

Relevance to clinical practice

Lateral X‐ray radiography is an effective method to verify misplacement and is recommended as routine practice during catheterization via lower extremities.
Sovereign Currency and Non‐Sovereign Budgets: The Modern Money Theory Approach
Authors: Wray L. Randall
Published: September 2020

This paper will present the Modern Money Theory approach to government finance. In short, a national government that chooses its own money of account, imposes a tax in that money of account, and issues currency in that money of account cannot face a financial constraint. It can make all payments as they come due. It cannot be forced into insolvency. While this was well‐understood in the early post‐war period, it was gradually “forgotten” as the neoclassical theory of the household budget constraint was applied to government finance. Matters were made worse by the development of “generational accounting” that calculated hundreds of trillions of dollars of government red ink through eternity due to what neoconservatives label “entitlements” (largely, Medicare and Social Security). As austerity measures were increasingly adopted at the national level, fiscal responsibility was shifted to state and local governments through “devolution.” A “stakeholder” approach to government finance helped fuel white flight to suburbs and produced “doughnut holes” in the cities. To reverse these trends, we need to redevelop our understanding of the fiscal space open to the currency issuer—expanding its responsibility not only for national social spending but also for helping to fund state and local government spending. This is no longer just an academic debate, given the challenges posed by climate change, growing inequality, secular stagnation, and the rise of Trumpism.
Breeding high‐yield upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) lines with high‐quality fibre by mutation
Authors: Zhou Heng , Deng Huiqing , Su Jinqi , Sun Ying , Jiang Linong , Liu Zhengluan , Tang Canming
Published: September 2020

The yield and fibre quality of upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) cultivars are very difficult to improve simultaneously. Attempts to breed upland cotton cultivars with high‐quality fibre that can spin more than 40 yarn count (Ne) and present yields equal to those of commercial cultivars have not been successful. The seeds of the high‐yield upland cotton line Tai 8033 were mutagenized in a Chinese Practice No. 8 recoverable satellite, and the mutated line was selected to produce high‐quality and high‐yield lines by pedigree selection. The eight mutated lines fit the Chinese standard of high‐quality cotton class I, were suitable for spinning more than 40 Ne and had yields that were 12.7%, 7.1% and 3.5% higher than the current control cultivar yield in the cotton cultivation area tested in Jiangsu Province. The fibre of one line successfully spun 80 Ne that fit the high‐quality yarn standards. After seeds were mutagenized by exposure to a space environment in a satellite, the fibre quality of upland cotton cultivars was improved through pedigree selection.
Implementation of a pediatric provider‐to‐provider store‐and‐forward teledermatology system: Effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability in a pilot study
Authors: Jew Olivia S. , Murthy Aditi S. , Danley Kristen , McMahon Patrick J.
Published: September 2020

Background/Objectives

Long wait times for in‐person appointments in pediatric dermatology can lead to delays in specialty care, additional health system touchpoints, patient and family dissatisfaction, poorer outcomes, and increased overall health care costs. Store‐and‐forward teledermatology may address these challenges and improve access to care in pediatric dermatology.

Methods

We describe a prospective, non‐blinded cohort study with follow‐up surveys conducted from March 1, 2018, to September 20, 2018. The study was conducted at a single center, in primary care and specialist settings. Patients included were <18 years old and received care at one of our affiliated primary care sites. Primary care providers submitted teledermatology consultations through a shared electronic medical record. A board‐certified pediatric dermatologist evaluated each consultation; primary care providers conveyed recommendations to families.

Results

Forty‐three consultations for patients (23 male, 20 female; median age: 7 years [IQR: 2.4‐12]) were entered by primary care providers. Median time from consult request to dermatologist initiating consult was 12.1 hours [IQR: 1.9‐18.8]; median time to complete consult note was 7 minutes [IQR: 5‐10.5]. Median time from primary care provider initially consulting to conveying teledermatology recommendations to families was 3 days [IQR: 1‐5]. All but one consult (42/43, 98%) were completed in the intended workflow. Follow‐up in‐person visits with pediatric dermatologists occurred with 10/43 (23%) patients. In follow‐up surveys, parents were 83% likely to recommend the service to family and friends. All primary care providers and dermatologists felt the service improved quality of care.

Conclusions

Provider‐to‐provider teledermatology consultation appears to be a feasible and acceptable method of providing care quickly and effectively to pediatric patients.
Aromatase inhibitor–induced hair loss in two adolescents
Authors: Perper Marina , Herskovitz Ingrid , Tosti Antonella
Published: September 2020

Hair loss and thinning are possible complications in those undergoing endocrine therapies with aromatase inhibitors. Alopecia in pediatric patients undergoing endocrine therapy has not been previously reported. We describe two adolescents, 14 and 16 years of age, who developed androgenetic alopecia following treatment with anastrozole for idiopathic short stature. Accordingly, the possible adverse event of alopecia should be considered in the pediatric population undergoing treatment with aromatase inhibitors.
Promoting cardiovascular health post‐transplant through early diagnosis and adequate management of hypertension and dyslipidemia
Authors: Charnaya Olga , Seifert Michael
Published: September 2020

Despite correction of underlying solid organ failure by transplantation, pediatric transplant recipients still have increased mortality rates compared to the general pediatric population, in part due to increased cardiovascular risk. In particular, pediatric kidney and non‐kidney transplant recipients with chronic kidney disease have significant cardiovascular risk that worsens with declining kidney function. Biomarkers associated with future cardiovascular risk such as casual and ambulatory hypertension, dyslipidemia, vascular stiffness and calcification, and left ventricular hypertrophy can be detected throughout the post‐transplant period and in patients with stable kidney function. Among these, hypertension and dyslipidemia are two potentially modifiable cardiovascular risk factors that are highly prevalent in kidney and non‐kidney pediatric transplant recipients. Standardized approaches to appropriate BP measurement and lipid monitoring are needed to detect and address these risk factors in a timely fashion. To achieve sustained improvement in cardiovascular health, clinicians should partner with patients and their caregivers to address these and other risk factors with a combined approach that integrates pharmacologic with non‐pharmacologic approaches. This review outlines the scope and impact of hypertension and dyslipidemia in pediatric transplant recipients, with a particular focus on pediatric kidney transplantation given the high burden of chronic kidney disease‐associated cardiovascular risk. We also review the current published guidelines for monitoring and managing abnormalities in blood pressure and lipids, highlighting the important role of therapeutic lifestyle changes in concert with antihypertensive and lipid‐lowering medications.
The circRNA circ_0000291 acts as a sponge of microRNA 326 to regulate E26 transformation‐specific sequence‐1 expression and promote breast cancer progression
Authors: Min Jie , Pan Xue , Lv Gang
Published: September 2020

Accumulating studies authenticate that circular RNAs (circRNAs) are involved in the progression of cancers. However, their role in breast cancer (BC) remains largely unknown. In this study, real‐time polymerase chain reaction was employed to detect the circ_0000291 and miR‐326 expressions in BC tissues and cells. The correlation between the expression level of circ_0000291 and clinicopathological parameters of BC patients was analyzed. Western blot was used to detect the expression of E26 transformation‐specific sequence‐1 (ETS1), E‐cadherin, N‐cadherin and Vimentin in BC cells. Cell proliferation was measured using the cell counting kit‐8 assay and the bromodeoxyuridine assay. Cell migration and invasion were detected by Transwell assay. The interactions between circ_0000291 and miR‐326, miR‐326 and ETS1 were verified using bioinformatics prediction, the dual‐luciferase reporter gene assay or/and RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation assay. We demonstrated that circ_0000291 was significantly upregulated in BC, and its high expression was positively correlated with T stage and local lymph node metastasis. Functional assays validated that circ_0000291 promoted BC cell proliferation, migration and invasion. The mechanism studies indicated that circ_0000291 could decoy miR‐326 and in turn upregulate the expression of ETS1. In conclusion, circ_0000291 is the novel oncogenic circRNA and promotes BC progression via modulating the miR‐326/ETS1 axis.
Maternal iodine status in a multi‐ethnic UK birth cohort: Associations with child cognitive and educational development
Authors: Threapleton Diane E. , Snart Charles J. P. , Keeble Claire , Waterman Amanda H. , Taylor Elizabeth , Mason Dan , Reid Stephen , Azad Rafaq , Hill Liam J. B. , Meadows Sarah , McKillion Amanda , Alwan Nisreen A. , Cade Janet E. , Simpson Nigel A. B. , Stewart Paul M. , Zimmermann Michael , Wright John , Waiblinger Dagmar , Mon‐Williams Mark , Hardie Laura J. , Greenwood Darren C.
Published: September 2020

Background

Maternal iodine requirements increase during pregnancy to supply thyroid hormones critical for fetal neurodevelopment. Iodine insufficiency may result in poorer cognitive or child educational outcomes but current evidence is sparse and inconsistent.

Objectives

To quantify the association between maternal iodine status and child educational outcomes.

Methods

Urinary iodine concentrations (UIC) and iodine/creatinine ratios (I:Cr) were measured in 6971 mothers at 26‐28 weeks' gestation participating in the Born in Bradford cohort. Maternal iodine status was examined in relation to child school achievement (early years foundation stage (EYFS), phonics, and Key Stage 1 (KS1)), other learning outcomes, social and behavioural difficulties, and sensorimotor control in 5745 children aged 4‐7 years.

Results

Median (interquartile range) UIC was 76 µg/L (46, 120), and I:Cr was 83 µg/g (59, 121). Overall, there was no strong or consistent evidence to support associations between UIC or I:Cr and neurodevelopmental outcomes. For instance, predicted EYFS and phonics scores (primary outcomes) at the 25th vs 75th I:Cr percentiles (99% confidence intervals) were similar, with no evidence of associations: EYFS scores were 32 (99% CI 31, 33) and 33 (99% CI 32, 34), and phonics scores were 34 (99% CI 33, 35) and 35 (99% CI 34, 36), respectively.

Conclusions

In the largest single study of its kind, there was little evidence of detrimental neurodevelopmental outcomes in children born to pregnant women with iodine insufficiency as defined by World Health Organization–outlined thresholds. Alternative functional biomarkers for iodine status in pregnancy and focused assessment of other health outcomes may provide additional insight.
Recent developments in African political theology
Authors: Ngong David Tonghou
Published: September 2020

Focusing on African Christian theology, this study builds on the taxonomy of African political theology provided by Emmanuel Katongole whose conception of African political theology locates it within the context of the nation state. The study however goes beyond Katongole's taxonomy to discuss other forms of political theology that are important in Africa today. It proposes a new form of political theology that goes beyond the nation state to encompass the planet and argues that the different forms of political theology in Africa should not be seen as mutually exclusive but rather as interconnected and mutually enriching.
Building Pedagogical and Activist Relationships
Authors: Stricker Mary
Published: September 2020

As a white professor who teaches courses that deal primarily with the issue of race, the question of whether pedagogy and activism mix is ever present in my mind. The answer to this question is of course complicated and yet, I answer affirmatively. Drawing upon social movement theory and the central tenets of critical pedagogy, I argue that pedagogy and activism can work very well together in the classroom, but that my allegiance to a critical pedagogy does present some necessary constraints on my classroom activism.
Comparative changes of pre‐operative autologous transfusions and peri‐operative cell salvage in the United States
Authors: Goel Ruchika , Petersen Molly R. , Patel Eshan U. , Packman Zoe , Bloch Evan M. , Gehrie Eric A. , Lokhandwala Parvez M. , Ness Paul M. , Shaz Beth , Katz Louis M. , Frank Steven M. , Tobian Aaron A. R.
Published: September 2020

Background

With improved safety of allogeneic blood supply, the use of preoperative autologous donations (PADs) and perioperative autologous cell salvage (PACS) has evolved. This study evaluated temporal trends in PAD and PACS use in the United States.

Methods

The National Inpatient Sample database, a stratified probability sample of 20% of hospitalizations in the United States, was used to compare temporal trends in hospitalizations reporting use of PADs and PACS from 1995 to 2015. Factors associated with their use were examined between 2012 and 2015 with use of multivariable Poisson regression. Sampling weights were applied to generate nationally representative estimates.

Results

There was a steady decrease in hospitalizations reporting PAD transfusions from 27.90 per 100 000 in 1995 to 1.48 per 100 000 hospitalizations in 2015 (P‐trend <.001). In contrast, PACS increased from a rate of 1.16 per 100 000 in 1995 to peak of 20.51 per 100 000 hospitalizations in 2008 and then steadily declined (P‐trend<.001). Higher odds of PACS and PADs were observed in older patients, elective procedures (vs urgent), and urban teaching/nonteaching hospitals (vs rural hospitals) (P < .001). PACS was more common in hospitalizations in patients with higher levels of severity of illness as compared to those with minor severity (adjusted prevalence ratio [adjPR], 2.39; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.08‐2.73; P<.001), while PADs were performed less often in patients with higher underlying severity of illness (All Patient Refined Diagnosis Related Groups, 4 vs 1, adjPR, 0.61; 95% CI, [0.39‐0.95]; P = .028).

Conclusions

There was a significant decrease in PAD red blood cell transfusions, while PACS has increased and subsequently decreased; PACS plays an important role in surgical blood conservation. The subsequent decline in PACS likely reflects further optimization of transfusion practice through patient blood management programs and improvement of surgical interventions.
Prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis B virus, and hepatitis C virus in United States blood donations, 2015 to 2019: The Transfusion‐Transmissible Infections Monitoring System (TTIMS)
Authors: Steele Whitney R. , Dodd Roger Y. , Notari Edward P. , Xu Meng , Nelson Diane , Kessler Debra A. , Reik Rita , Williams Alan E. , Custer Brian , Stramer Susan L. ,   for the Transfusion‐Transmissible Infections Monitoring System (TTIMS)
Published: September 2020

Background

The Transfusion‐Transmissible Infections Monitoring System (TTIMS) combines data from four US blood collection organizations including approximately 60% of all donations to monitor demographic and temporal trends in infectious disease markers and policy impacts.

Study Design and Methods

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) consensus‐positive definitions combined serology and nucleic acid testing results. These along with donor and donation characteristics were assembled into a single data set. Overall donation prevalence and demographic subsets were compared pre‐ and post‐implementation of the 2015 change in men who have sex with men (MSM) deferral policy, among other prevalence comparisons.

Results

From October 2015 to September 2019, there were 712 HIV‐, 1735 HBV‐, and 5217 HCV‐positive samples identified from approximately 27.5 million donations (>9.4 million donors). Prevalences per 100 000 donations were 2.6 (HIV), 6.3 (HBV), and 19.0 (HCV), and the highest for all three agents were in donations from first‐time male donors. Two slight but significant increases in HIV prevalence were observed, both for comparisons of Year 1 (pre‐MSM policy change) versus Year 4 (post‐MSM policy change) for first‐time males and first‐time females; in contrast, similar comparisons demonstrated decreases in HCV prevalence (all donors and general trends for males and females). Except for HIV, prevalence increased with age; for all agents, prevalence was markedly higher in the south.

Conclusions

No major trends were observed over 4 years covering the MSM policy change from indefinite to a 12‐month deferral, but ongoing monitoring is warranted. Demographic trends are consistent with those observed in other donor studies and community trends.
Strategies used in Cameroon blood banks for HIV screening
Authors: Geukeng Elvige Dongmo , Njunda Anna Longdoh , Nsagha Dickson Shey , Zofou Denis , Nanfack Aubin Joseph , Fokam Joseph , Sonela Nelson , Ndoumba Annick , Penda Calixte Ida , Ngo‐Sack Françoise , Ngaba Pascal , Tagny Claude Bertrand Tayou , Mbanya Dora , Ndjolo Alexis
Published: September 2020

Background and objectives

The Cameroon National Blood Transfusion Programme (NBTP) has set national standards and recommendations for HIV testing in blood banks, which involves the use of two highly sensitive 99·5% and specific 99·5% fourth‐generation enzyme immunoassays (EIA). The present study aimed at investigating HIV strategies, algorithms and assays currently used in Cameroonian blood banks, after which their level of compliance to blood safety recommendations would be assessed.

Materials and methods

A cross‐sectional descriptive study was conducted in 18 blood banks located in the ten regions of Cameroon during the year 2018. Data were collected through in‐person interview of blood bank heads, on the HIV testing practice. The information provided from the questionnaire‐based interview was crosschecked and completed through the exploitation of blood bank records.

Results

This study showed that 12/18 blood banks had Hospital Blood Transfusion Hemovigelance Committee, while guidelines were available in 15/18 centres. According to testing algorithms, 22·2% used one RDT, 27·8% used two RDTs, 33·3% used one RDT combined with Ag/A EIA or CLIA (chemiluminescent immunoassay) and 16·7% used two RDT combined with Ag/Ab EIA/CLIA. Concerning testing kits, a total of 13 different kits were found among which 69·2% were WHO‐prequalified. A good level of compliance with the NBTP guideline was observed in 1/18.

Conclusion

This study revealed a diversity of practice in HIV screening for blood transfusion in Cameroon. As fewer blood banks meet the required standards, these findings should serve as the footprint for the National Blood Transfusion Programme in implementing corrective actions nationwide.
The effect of extracorporeal shockwave on liposomal bupivacaine in a tibial plateau leveling osteotomy model
Authors: Frederick Steven W. , Cross Alan R.
Published: September 2020

Objective

To determine the effect of extracorporeal shock wave (ESWT) on liposomal bupivacaine in a tibial‐plateau‐leveling osteotomy model.

Study design

In vitro study.

Sample population

Ten samples per group.

Methods

In addition to a control group (sham treatment), five treatment groups were defined as A, energy (E) 3 (0.22 mJ/mm2), 360 pulses per minute (p/m); B, E6 (0.29 mJ/mm2), 360 p/m; C, E8 (0.39 mJ/mm2), 360 p/m; D, E6, 480 p/m; E, E8 480 p/m. Two‐milliliter aliquots of liposomal bupivacaine were placed in a gelatin chamber and treated with 1000 pulses according to group. All samples remained in the chamber for 170 seconds to reflect the longest treatment group. Free bupivacaine concentrations were determined after treatment with high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results

The median free bupivacaine concentration was reported as control, 1.90 mg/mL; A, 2.10 mg/mL; B, 2.03 mg/mL; C, 2.94 mg/mL; D, 2.71 mg/mL; E, 4.35 mg/mL. Groups C (P= .027), D (P= .034), and E (P= .002) were different from the control group. Groups C (P= .0025) and D (P= .0025) were different from group E. Additional intertreatment group differences were found.

Conclusion

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy caused a dose‐dependent release of bupivacaine; however, there was no significant release of bupivacaine from liposomes when ESWT was applied at currently recommended therapeutic settings in this model.

Clinical significance

This in vitro study provides evidence that concurrent electrohydraulic ESWT and liposomal bupivacaine is likely safe at currently recommended settings, however, higher energy and pulse frequency settings should be avoided.
Mastectomy in 25 small ruminants (2002‐2019)
Authors: Hermida Jesus A. , Baird Aubrey N. , Hawkins Jan F. , Moore George E.
Published: September 2020

Objective

To describe the outcome of small ruminants treated with unilateral and bilateral mastectomy by using three surgical techniques.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Animals

Twenty‐five small ruminants (24 goats and one sheep).

Methods

Medical records of animals that underwent mastectomy between November 1, 2002, and May 1, 2019, were reviewed. Follow‐up information was obtained by telephone questionnaire with owners. Signalment, surgical data, intraoperative and postoperative complications, bacterial culture results, histopathologic diagnoses, short‐ and long‐term outcomes, and other procedures performed were recorded.

Result

Procedures consisted of six unilateral (with an elliptical incision) and 19 total (with inverted cloverleaf or elliptical skin incisions) mastectomies. All animals survived to hospital discharge. Intraoperative complications included contamination of the surgical site with mammary‐gland fluid, hemorrhage, and difficulty dissecting skin from the mammary gland. Postoperative complications included seroma formation (7/25), surgical‐site infection (5/25), and dehiscence of the skin incision (3/25). Mammary neoplasia was diagnosed in seven of 15 animals with histopathologic examination. No association was detected between surgical technique, diagnosis of neoplasia, and long‐term outcome. Overall, client satisfaction was high.

Conclusion

Mastectomy was effective at removing abnormally enlarged udders secondary to chronic mastitis, inappropriate lactation, idiopathic causes, or neoplasia and was associated with a low rate of complications in small ruminants.

Clinical significance

Unilateral mastectomy with an elliptical skin incision or total mastectomy, preferably with inverted cloverleaf skin incision, may be indicated to remove diseased mammary tissue in small ruminants and can result in long‐term survival with low morbidity and cosmetically pleasing results.
A Review on The AC Servo Motor Control Systems
Authors: Abdul Ali Abdul Wali , Abdul Razak Fatin Asmida , Hayima Nasri
Published: September 2020

AC Servomotors are widely used in the industries for the control of static and dynamic loads. Precise control of position, speed, and torque are the main issues with the AC Servomotor. AC Servomotors are highly demanded by the industries to have a precise response under dynamic load conditions. Many control techniques are commercially available for the control of AC Servomotor under static and dynamic load conditions. However, all of these control techniques have advantages and limitations. Many investigations are done on the control of AC Servomotor, but comprehensive surveys on the control of AC Servomotor were still limited. In this paper, most of such commercially available control techniques are investigated, discussed, and compared.
Physical activity interventions to prevent and manage type 2 diabetes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Evans John , Canuto Karla , Kelly Ray , Caperchione Cristina , Macniven Rona
Published: September 2020

Objective:

This systematic review aims to synthesize evidence to determine the effect of physical activity on the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.

Introduction:

Physical activity interventions have been shown to have a positive influence in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes. A body of evidence for the impact among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is emerging, but a definitive understanding is yet to be realized.

Inclusion criteria:

The review will include studies with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations of any age group and from any setting or region in Australia. Studies will be included if they report on physical activity interventions, programs, or activities to prevent or manage type 2 diabetes. Studies may compare physical activity interventions to usual care, alternate treatments, or no intervention, or may be pre-post studies. This review will consider studies that measure change in physical activity or exercise levels and/or change in HbA1c level.

Methods:

Nine databases will be searched, and studies published in English will be included. No date limits will be set. Methodological quality will be determined using critical appraisal checklists appropriate to the study design and the CREATE Critical Appraisal Tool to appraise research from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives. Data extracted will include population group, study design, methods, intervention components, and physical activity–related outcomes. Quantitative data will be pooled where possible to enable a meta-analysis to be conducted. Heterogeneous studies will be synthesized narratively.
Progress Toward a Complete Set of Errors for Modeling and Simulation
Authors: Kaizer Joshua
Published: September 2020

To develop a fully complete set of errors associated with modeling and simulation, it is necessary to express every error that could impact the accuracy of a computational model's prediction of the real world system (i.e., a set of errors that is theoretically complete) and to develop a means to assess each error (i.e., making the set practically complete). As a first step toward this goal, this paper focuses on developing a theoretically complete set of errors that, if accounted for, would result in the correct prediction of reality. In order to derive this theoretically complete set of errors, a three-step process is followed. First, a generic scenario is introduced which is defined by a set of functions and inputs common to many, if not most, applications in modeling and simulation. Second, using only these functions and inputs, an equation for the total error is defined such that correcting the model's prediction to account for the error would result in a correct prediction of reality. Finally, the equation for total error is expanded by introducing terms from the generic scenario. This results in a decomposition of the total error into a set of thirteen distinct difference terms, each of which is defined as an error and many of which are closely related to current practices in verification, validation, and uncertainty quantification. These thirteen errors represent a theoretically complete set.
Estimation of Hydraulic Gradient for a Transport Pipeline
Authors: Rojas J. , Verde C. , Torres L.
Published: September 2020

This work deals with the hydraulic gradient estimation in real-time of a transport pipeline computational model by considering a slightly compressible fluid and slightly deformable conduit walls. Since the hydraulic gradient (J(Q)) caused by the friction phenomenon in a pipeline plays an important role in the system's behavior, and this function is affected by fluid properties' deviations, environmental disturbances and conduit deteriorations, it is proposed that the on-line estimation of J(Q) could be part of a monitoring system. The proposition can be applied to obtain computational models of a line with a junction and assumes only measurements of pressure and flow rate at the ends of the conduit and the junction outflow. The generic form of the gradient function J(Q) is a second-order polynomial with coefficients that involve indirectly pipe roughness, the transversal area of the conduit, fluid viscosity and elements connected to the line. The extended Kalman filter (EKF) is applied to estimate the coefficients of the function J(Q). As a test apparatus, a 163 m long hydraulic pipeline is used. Diverse experiments show the usefulness of the on-line estimation of J(Q) for monitoring and simulation tasks where computational models are necessary.
Oil Brush Seals in Turbomachinery: Flow Analyses and Closed-Form Solutions
Authors: Duran Ertuğrul Tolga
Published: September 2020

Brush seals are one of the most important dynamic seals used in oil and oil mist applications in industrial turbines and aviation. Flexible bristle structure is the main structural superiority of brush seals, which enables precise clearance control and high performance in compensating rotor transients. The viscous medium between the high-speed rotor surface and brush seal bristles generates a hydrodynamic lifting force that determines seal clearance and leakage rate in oil sealing applications. Shear heating at moderate and high rotor surface speeds results in an increase in temperature and stabilization of lifting force, which is known as high-speed lift stabilization. Strong temperature–viscosity dependency of lube oils possesses the need for a detailed analysis and understanding of the effect of shear heat on hydrodynamic lift of brush seals in oil applications. To provide a better understanding about the critical balance of hydrodynamic lift force with rotor speed, temperature, and pressure, this work presents an analytical study to investigate pressure profile and shear heat temperature rise in liquid sealing medium within the hydrodynamic lift clearance. A closed-form solution to pressure and temperature distribution in axial and radial directions has been obtained by solving continuity, Navier–Stokes, and thermal energy equations for brush seals. The thermal and pressure functions are evaluated for linear and nonlinear pressure drop approaches, and the results are compared with each other. Deviation in nonlinear and linear pressure, resulting temperature level differences, and effect of rotor speed are detailed within the content of this study. The provided closed-form functions for pressure and temperature profiles are useful for designers since these can be utilized for turbine operation conditions. Dynamic test rig design for high-speed leakage performance measurement of turbomachinery seals is detailed, where the test rig can also be adopted for stiffness, frictional heat, power loss, torque loss, and bucket tip stability testing in oil and air environment. The test setup can also be used for testing dynamic seals other than brush seals.
Dilatancy in dense suspensions of model hard-sphere-like colloids under shear and extensional flow
Authors: Andrade Ricardo J. E. , Jacob Alan R. , Galindo-Rosales Francisco J. , Campo-Deaño Laura , Huang Qian , Hassager Ole , Petekidis George
Published: September 2020

Dense suspensions of model hard-sphere (HS)-like colloids, with different particle sizes, are examined experimentally near and in the glass state, under shear and extensional rheology. Under steady shear flow, we detect both continuous and discontinuous shear thickening (DST) above a critical shear rate (or shear stress), depending on the particle size and volume fraction. Start-up shear experiments show stress overshoots in the vicinity of the onset of DST indicative of microscopic structural changes, while the sample macroscopically shows dilatancy effects. Measurement of shear and normal stresses together with direct video imaging of the sample probes the appearance of the positive first normal stress difference, N1, at the onset of shear thickening at high shear rates and glassy states. This is followed by dilatancy effects accompanied by large fluctuations of shear and normal stress and stick-slip phenomena. Similarly, under extensional flow probed by capillary breakup and filament stretching setups, we find liquidlike response for low strain rates, while above a critical strain rate, the samples exhibit a solidlike behavior where thickening is accompanied by a macroscopic dilatancy and granulation. Monitoring the filament thinning processes under different conditions (volume fractions and strain rates), we have created a state diagram where all responses of a HS suspension (liquidlike, shear thinning, shear thickening, and dilatant) are shown. We, finally, compare the shear thickening response of these HS-like suspensions and glasses in shear with that in the extensional flow.
Flipping an exosome switch
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: September 2020

Nutrient stress changes the biogenesis and biological activity of exosomes in cancer cells.
Lysozyme Resistance in Clostridioides difficile Is Dependent on Two Peptidoglycan Deacetylases
Authors: Kaus Gabriela M. , Snyder Lindsey F. , Müh Ute , Flores Matthew J. , Popham David L. , Ellermeier Craig D.
Published: September 2020

Clostridioides difficile
is the leading cause of hospital-acquired diarrhea.
C. difficile
is highly resistant to lysozyme. We previously showed that the
csfV
operon is required for lysozyme resistance. Here, we used CRISPR-Cas9 mediated mutagenesis and CRISPRi knockdown to show that peptidoglycan deacetylation is necessary for lysozyme resistance and is the major lysozyme resistance mechanism in
C. difficile
. We show that two peptidoglycan deacetylases in
C. difficile
are partially redundant and are required for lysozyme resistance. PgdA provides an intrinsic level of deacetylation, and PdaV, encoded by a part of the
csfV
operon, provides lysozyme-induced peptidoglycan deacetylation.
Establishing Partnerships for Science Outreach Inside and Outside the Undergraduate Classroom
Authors: Knippenberg M. Todd , Leak Anne , Disseler Shirley , Segarra Verónica A.
Published: September 2020

STEM outreach experiences provide aspiring scientists and healthcare professionals with opportunities to grow into new roles, integrate knowledge, and acquire soft skills. While STEM outreach publications often describe the outreach performed, few focus on how to establish strong partnerships, which are essential for outreach endeavors to succeed. Information on this is more important than ever before—grant agencies commonly require education and outreach plans that will reach a broader audience. Consequently, principal investigators who are not trained in education or outreach need tools to set up strong partnerships. To help fill this gap, here we outline the recommended steps for developing robust interdisciplinary STEM outreach programs that leverage institutional resources and community partnerships. This process yields strategic and sustainable opportunities for undergraduate students to learn as they engage with the STEM outreach team (students, faculty, university staff, and community partners) and the lay public. The outlined ideas broadly apply to creating outreach programs for trainees at any stage, not just undergraduates.