bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing a triage tool for use in identifying people living with HIV who are at risk for non-retention in HIV care
Authors: Gebrezgi Merhawi T , Fennie Kristopher P , Sheehan Diana M , Ibrahimou Boubakari , Jones Sandra G , Brock Petra , Ladner Robert A , Trepka Mary Jo
Published: February 2020

Identifying people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care who are at particular risk of non-retention in care is an important element in improving their HIV care outcomes. The purpose of this study was to develop a risk prediction tool to identify PLHIV at risk of non-retention in care over the course of the next year. We used stepwise logistic regression to assess sociodemographic, clinical and behavioral predictors of non-retention in HIV care. Retention in care was defined as having evidence of at least two encounters with an HIV care provider (or CD4 or viral load lab tests as a proxy measure for the encounter), at least three months apart within a year. We validated the risk prediction tool internally using the bootstrap method. The risk prediction tool included a total of six factors: age group, race, poverty level, homelessness, problematic alcohol/drug use, and viral suppression status. The total risk score ranged from 0 to 17. Compared to those in the lowest quartile (0 risk score), those who were in the middle two quartiles (score 1–4) and those in the upper quartile (>4 risk score) were more likely not to be retained in care (odds ratio [OR] 1.63 [confidence interval, CI: 1.39 – 1.92] and OR 4.82 [CI: 4.04 – 5.78], respectively). The discrimination ability for the prediction model was 0.651. We conclude that increased risk for non-retention in care can be predicted with routinely available variables. Since the discrimination of the tool was low, future studies may need to include more prognostic factors in the risk prediction tool.
Sustained virologic suppression with abacavir, emtricitabine, and crushed dolutegravir and tenofovir alafenamide in a patient with HIV and eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Moore Sarah E , Huesgen Emily , Howe Zachary
Published: February 2020

We report the use of crushed dolutegravir (DTG) and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) tablets in a 27-year-old man with progressive dysphagia due to eosinophilic esophagitis, which severely limited compliance, leading to viral resistance. Based on his drug resistance history, allergies, and inability to swallow tablets intact, he was transitioned to DTG 50 mg (crushed), TAF 25 mg (crushed), liquid abacavir (20 mg/ml) 30 ml, and liquid emtricitabine (10 mg/ml) 24 ml orally daily. After receiving this regimen for five months, the patient’s HIV viral load decreased from 9910 to 59 copies/ml and after ten total months became suppressed at <20 copies/ml. Our case report suggests administration of crushed DTG and TAF tablets may be a viable option for patients with dysphagia and limited treatment options.
Woman Microfinance in Indonesia: Present Status and Future Direction
Authors: Sutiyo  , Pitono Andi , Raharjanto Tri , Sinaga Jona Bungaran Basuki
Published: February 2020

Microfinance has broadly been used to alleviate poverty and empower women in Indonesia. Many studies have already examined the microfinance performance but mostly on the basis of a client versus non-client comparative method. In this study, we measure the outreach of and impact of microfinance on poverty alleviation through random sampling of poor households. A case study was conducted at the district of Purbalingga to assess the most widespread woman microfinance in Indonesia, Savings and Loans for Women ( Simpan Pinjam Perempuan, SPP). While the SPP has a good repayment rate and asset growth, its performance in poverty alleviation is low. Only 18 per cent of the respondents ever benefitted from the SPP, which indicates low outreach to the poor. The impact on income generation and development of social capital as well as empowerment of the poor is weak. The causes are limited fund, lack of prioritisation to the poor and inexistence of assistance to loan utilisation. Institutionally, the SPP is not connected to the local government. These create a low sense of belonging and fund allocation from the local authorities. The continuity of the SPP requires a closer institutional linkage with the local government and bank institutions in order to have better assistance and budgeting while maintaining informality of loan disbursement.
Organic Cachaça Production Strategy as Sociomaterial Practice
Authors: Brito Mozar José de , Lobato Christiane Batista de Paulo , Brito Valéria da Glória Pereira , Paiva André Luiz de
Published: February 2020

The main aim of this study is to investigate the effects of sociomateriality in the strategy for artisanal production of organic cachaça—a well-known Brazilian beverage—by means of the case study method. In addition to enabling reconstruction of the trajectory of the studied organisation and its insertion in the institutional context, this method was suitable for investigating sociomaterial practices, enabling identification of the effects of agency (material, biological and human) on the strategy for artisanal production of organic cachaça. The field research conducted was grounded on the postulates of the realist-constructivist ontology and the theory of strategy as practice, in combination with the sociomateriality approach. It was observed that the strategy for artisanal production of cachaça involves a sociomaterial entanglement and reciprocal agencies that encompass equipment, natural resources, knowledge, experience, learning, traditional knowledge, living beings and chemical elements. This study helps redefine the manner of thinking about and conducting studies on strategy as sociomaterial practices, especially by focusing on the interactivity between the social dimension of this practice and the material and technological framework that supports it.
Cryptosporidium Infection Increases the Risk for Chronic Diarrhea Among People Living With HIV in Southeast Asia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Utami Wiwien S. , Murhandarwati Elsa H. , Artama Wayan T. , Kusnanto Hari
Published: February 2020

We conducted a systematic review research and meta-analysis to reveal the relationship between the risk of chronic diarrhea and Cryptosporidium infection in people living with HIV in Southeast Asia. We performed online peer-reviewed literature research from January 2005 to December 2017, which included PubMed, Science Direct, ProQuest, EBSCO, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases. Calculation of size effects in the meta-analysis was performed by STATA 13.0 software to estimate relative risks (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for any associations. Seven cross-sectional research articles were recruited in this study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Our analysis revealed a significant relationship between cryptosporidiosis and the risk of chronic diarrhea in people living with HIV, with RR = 1.325; 95% CI = 1.157 to 1.517; and P < .000. Our results suggested that cryptosporidiosis increases the risk of chronic diarrhea, and low CD4+ lymphocyte cell counts aggravate the degree of diarrhea. Therefore, clinicians should be more aware in treating HIV-positive people, especially those with low CD4+ cell counts, and we suggest that Cryptosporidium laboratory examinations be conducted immediately.
“I’m in Between”: Cultural Identities of Chinese Youth in Canada
Authors: Fang Lin , Huang Yu-Te
Published: February 2020

This constructivist grounded theory study unpacks how Chinese youth in Canada navigate and negotiate their cultural identities. Participants aged 16 to 24 years ( N = 22) were invited to provide a biographic account of where they were born and raised, the social contexts they interacted with, and how they grappled with their cultural identities growing up. Despite noting the differences between Chinese and Canadian cultures, participants found the concepts of culture elusive and questioned the categorical notion of culture. They indicated their cultural identity as being “in-between,” and their identity development as an ongoing, nonlinear process, involving a constant exchange between them and their environments. Study results highlight the fluid and nonstatic nature of cultural identity development in the context of immigration.
Exploration of Two Different Structures for Debriefing in Simulation: The Influence of the Structure on the Facilitator Role
Authors: Tosterud Randi , Kjølberg Kristin , Kongshaug Arnhild Vestnes , Haugom Jon Viktor
Published: February 2020

Background. In the use of simulation as a learning approach, a structured debriefing is important for students to achieve learning. The facilitator’s feedback style and abilities in facilitating are crucial, and have a great impact on the learning environment. The facilitators should facilitate for student active learning, and provide helpful feedback to empower students as self-regulated learners. The aim of the study was to explore the Steinwachs structure and the Critical Response Process structure when used in debriefing in medical simulation, and how each of them affected the facilitator’s role.

Method. A multi-method, comparative quasi-experimental design was used.

Results. Structuring debriefing in accordance with the Critical Response Process facilitated a facilitator role that coincided with factors highlighted in theory on how to facilitate student active learning and the development self-regulating learners. Structuring debriefing in accordance with the Steinwachs structure revealed that debriefing seemed to be based more on the facilitator’s frames and dominance than the students’ frames and involvement.

Conclusion. The results of this study showed that Critical Response Process (CRP) can be an appropriate structure to use in debriefing in medical simulation. It reduced the facilitator’s dominance and frames, coincident with what is empathized in collaborative, active and learner-centered learning.
Real-World Evaluation of Dosing in Patients Converted From Insulin Glargine (Lantus) to Insulin Glargine (Basaglar)
Authors: Pitlick Jamie M. , Bryant Ginelle A. , Daly Michael W. , Koenigsfeld Carrie F. , Lehman Nicholas , Brueggen Kaitlin , McCormick Alex , Wellington Katlynn
Published: February 2020

Background: Basaglar, insulin glargine (BGlar; Eli Lilly, Indianapolis, IN), a follow-on biologic, was developed after the patent for Lantus, insulin glargine (LGlar; Sanofi-Aventis, Paris, France) expired. Objective: To compare the dosing and hemoglobin A1C (A1C)-lowering effects of BGlar compared with LGlar in a real-world setting. Methods: Adult patients, at 5 clinics, with type 1 (T1DM) or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who were converted from LGlar to BGlar were included in this retrospective observational study. The primary outcome compared mean basal insulin dose (U/d) from the date of conversion to 6 months. Basal insulin and total daily insulin doses were also compared from baseline to 3- and 12-months postconversion, as also change in A1C, body weight, and estimated monthly acquisition costs of basal insulin. Results: Of the 225 patients included, 56% were male, and 81% had T2DM. The mean conversion dose (U/d) of LGlar was 46.3 ± 32.7. There was no significant difference in the mean BGlar dose (U/d) at 6 months (45.9 ± 33.5; P = 0.52), nor was there a statistical difference at 3 or 12 months. There were no significant differences in change in A1C at any time point. The estimated monthly acquisition cost of BGlar was significantly less than that for LGlar at conversion ($286 vs $341, P < 0.001) and 6 months ($290 vs $351, P < 0.001) respectively. Conclusion/Relevance: The results of this retrospective study suggest that BGlar resulted in similar glycemic outcomes compared with LGlar in a real-world setting and may be a preferable option in a value-based health care environment.
The Role of Universities in Private Environmental Governance Experimentalism
Authors: Light Sarah E.
Published: February 2020

In our federal, constitutional system of government, the states are often lauded as “laboratories of experimentation” for public policy, including for public environmental law. Yet private actors are playing an increasingly important role as parallel regulators through the adoption of private environmental governance. Private environmental governance can functionally advance one of federalism’s core values: policy experimentalism. To the extent that private governance by business firms arouses skepticism for this experimental role because firms’ motives to achieve profit in a competitive environment differ from the incentives motivating public regulators, private universities offer an alternative institutional locus for experimentalism. Using Yale University’s recent adoption of a private carbon charge as a case study, this article argues that universities should play a greater role in private environmental governance experimentalism, and are worthy of more scholarly focus.
Mechanical properties and characteristics of structural insulated panels with a novel cellulose nanofibril-based composite foam core
Authors: Li Jinghao , Yan Qiangu , Cai Zhiyong
Published: February 2020

The cellulose nanofibril material utilized in structural composites has attracted considerable attention in recent decades. However, developing and manufacturing such products are still somewhat problematic. In this research, cellulose nanofibril aerogel and epoxy/cellulose nanofibril composite foam with different epoxy weight ratios have been developed to make structural insulated panels. A batch of small-scale samples was used to investigate the mechanical properties and characteristics of structural insulated panels with different cellulose nanofibril-based core materials. The morphology showed that the epoxy uniformly encapsulated the cellulose nanofibril fiber walls, and the cellulose nanofibrils were the critical components to form a three-dimensional framework. The ratio of epoxy and cellulose nanofibril in these composite foams had a noticeable effect on their mechanical properties. Moreover, the thermal conductivities for pure cellulose nanofibril, epoxy/CNF10, and epoxy/CNF5 samples were 0.034, 0.045, and 0.050 W/mK, respectively. These thermal values are in the similar range of commercial insulated foam in current use.
Genetic association study of SOX2 gene polymorphisms with high myopia in a Chinese population
Authors: Li Lan , Cui Ying Juan , Zou Yunchun , Yang Liyuan , Yin Ximin , Li Bo , Yan Liying
Published: February 2020

Purpose:

The aim of this study is to investigate whether SOX2 gene variants were associated with high myopia in a Chinese population.

Methods:

This study is conducted using case-control association analysis. This study recruited 83 healthy controls (with binocular spherical equivalent between –0.50 and +0.50 D) and 117 high myopia cases (spherical equivalent > –6.00 D in both eyes). Three single-nucleotide polymorphisms were selected from HapMap database for genotyping by direct sequencing. Statistical software (SPSS 22.0) was used for statistical analysis. The chi-square test was used to examine the difference in the frequency between cases and controls.

Results:

Genotype distributions in the three single-nucleotide polymorphisms were all in accordance with the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. The differences of rs4575941 locus genotype frequency and allele frequency between the case group and the control group were statistically significant (p = .043 and p = .029, respectively). The rs4575941 allele G frequency in the high myopia group was significantly higher than that in the control group with an odds ratio value of 1.579. However, the value of a chi-square test for the trend was 0.029, and after Bonferroni test, the p value was .087.

Conclusion:

In Chinese population, rs4575941 in SOX2 gene was likely to play some roles in the genetic susceptibility to high myopia; the rs4575941 allele G might be a risk gene for high myopia.
Anatomy of Non-tariff Barriers in India–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Pal Barun Deb , Pohit Sanjib
Published: February 2020

This article attempts to answer one crucial research question: why the utilization of India–Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (ISFTA) route for trade is very poor by the Indian exporters (13%) as compared to their Sri Lankan counterpart (65%) even after one decade of its implementation? The available studies have blamed the non-tariff barriers (NTBs) which are hamstringing the growth of trade between these partners development of international trade. However, these have considered NTBs as subset of non-tariff measures (NTMs) which are quite narrow sense of finding the hidden barriers within the International trade process. Therefore, this article has analysed in detail the logistic process involved in international trade between India and Sri Lanka to understand various NTBs sheltered within this logistic process. Further, the article has identified issues which are not directly beyond the logistic process which are affecting the international trade between these two countries.

JEL: F0, F1
The religious field in a Russian Muslim village: A Bourdieusian perspective on Islam
Authors: Yusupova Guzel
Published: February 2020

Research on Islam in Russia has been growing in recent years. Despite the variety of perspectives adopted by scholars in the field, attention has focused mostly on responses to emerging globalised trends of Islamic orthodoxy in traditionally Muslim areas which had historically cultivated their own understandings of Islamic religious tradition strongly intertwined with local life. Most scholars of Russian Islam argue that the split among Russian Muslims between the followers of (global) ‘orthodoxy’ and (local) ‘traditions’ lies along generational lines. However, the sociological microdynamic of this process is still under-researched. This paper presents the results of an in-depth ethnographic study of a Muslim community in one of the Tatar villages of the multi-ethnic Volga region. It argues that the generational perspective is not sufficient to explain the split between ‘orthodox’ and ‘traditional’ Muslims. By employing Pierre Bourdieu’s approach to social reality and the religious field, the paper examines how a conflict arises on the base of competing discourses on Islamic norms and practices, but goes far beyond it, and concerns social, economic and symbolic spheres of the villagers’ lives. It shows that not only generational but also other social characteristics based on various forms of capital need to be taken into account to explain the split between orthodox-oriented Muslims and the followers of local Islam.
Road lighting: A pilot study investigating improvement of visual performance using light sources with a larger gamut area
Authors: Yang B , Wei M
Published: February 2020

Many past studies investigating visual performance focused mainly on the effect of luminance contrast between the target and background. Other studies have suggested the importance of colour contrast on visual performance. This pilot study was designed to investigate whether visual performance in the context of road lighting can be improved by enhancing the chroma of targets. Observers were asked to detect an off-axis target with different levels of luminance, hue, and chroma on a uniform background at 1.5 cd/m2. When the target and the background were set to the same luminance, a zero luminance contrast, the detection rates were significantly lower and the reaction times were significantly longer. Enhancing the colour contrast between the target and the background by increasing the target chroma level, however, was found to improve visual performance to similar levels as those when the target was revealed by luminance contrast against the background. Such an enhancement on colour contrast can be achieved in practice using light sources with a greater colour gamut size.
Diabetes affects endothelial cell function and alters fibrin clot formation in a microvascular flow model: A pilot study
Authors: Jenny Lorenz , Melmer Andreas , Laimer Markus , Hardy Elaissa T , Lam Wilbur A , Schroeder Verena
Published: February 2020

Diabetes is a proinflammatory and prothrombotic condition that increases the risk of vascular complications. The aim of this study was to develop a diabetic microvascular flow model that allows to study the complex interactions between endothelial cells, blood cells and plasma proteins and their effects on clot formation. Primary human cardiac microvascular endothelial cells from donors without diabetes or donors with diabetes (type 1 or type 2) were grown in a microfluidic chip, perfused with non-diabetic or diabetic whole blood, and clot formation was assessed by measuring fibrin deposition in real time by confocal microscopy. Clot formation in non-diabetic whole blood was significantly increased in the presence of endothelial cells from donors with type 2 diabetes compared with cells from donors without diabetes. There was no significant difference in clot formation between non-diabetic and diabetic whole blood. We present for the first time a diabetic microvascular flow model as a new tool to study clot formation as a result of the complex interactions between endothelial cells, blood cells and plasma proteins in a diabetes setting. We show that endothelial cells affect clot formation in whole blood, attributing an important role to the endothelium in the development of atherothrombotic complications.
Using Qualitative Methodologies in Speech-Language Pathology: An Example From Serving Students With Hearing Loss
Authors: Westby Carol E.
Published: February 2020

This article demonstrates the use of qualitative methodologies to provide a description of an intervention framework and goals for students with hearing loss in general education. Because of advances in technology, the majority of students with hearing loss are now educated in general education classrooms. Many of these students are not eligible for special education services although their hearing loss does compromise their functioning in many areas of daily life. This investigation employed two qualitative methods—the biographical narrative interpretive method and ethnography—to provide insight into the personal experiences of a speech-language pathologist with a hearing loss and the way her experiences influenced the nature, rationale for, and content of the intervention program she implemented for students with hearing loss in general education programs. The qualitative methods are described, examples of qualitative analyses are provided, and the components of the program for elementary school students are presented.
Successful Treatment of Lower Limb Burn Wounds With Long-Term Survived Human Skin Allograft in an Immunosuppressed Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Chang Chun-Kai , Bartkova Julia , Liao Yi-Shu , Tzeng Yuan-Sheng
Published: February 2020

Early excision and autografting have been the principles in managing acute burn wounds. Despite the known benefits of early autografting, there are situations in which the placement of autograft is unsafe or even unavailable. In these clinical situations, skin substitutes like artificial dressings and human skin allografts are considered as useful for temporary wound coverage. We present an immunosuppressed patient with deep lower limb burn wound who received human skin allograft for wound management. The applied human skin allograft persisted for a longer period without infection or rejection and successfully improved her wound healing. Large and well-designed prospective studies are needed to confirm the encouraging results of the present case report.
Using the Hiring Process to Improve the Cultural Responsiveness of Schools
Authors: Tran Henry , Buckman David G. , Johnson Arvin
Published: February 2020

This case highlights a high school that struggles with inequities perpetuated by a noninclusive environment. To help confront these issues, the school will hire an assistant principal of diversity. Readers are presented with a dilemma concerning the legality of hiring based on race and research that supports the benefits of racial congruency between administrators, students, and faculty. Readers are then challenged to use the hiring process to first reflect on the school’s state of affairs, have the courageous conversations to chart a different path, and ultimately hire someone with the mind-set that can help the school do so.
Prospective Outcomes of Cryopreserved Osteochondral Allograft for Patellofemoral Cartilage Defects at Minimum 2-Year Follow-up
Authors: Melugin Heath P. , Ridley Taylor J. , Bernard Christopher D. , Wischmeier Dillen , Farr Jack , Stuart Michael J. , Macalena Jeffrey A. , Krych Aaron J.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To analyze the clinical outcomes, knee function, and activity level of patients after treatment of full-thickness cartilage defects involving the patellofemoral compartment of the knee with cryopreserved osteochondral allograft.

Design

Nineteen patients with cartilage defects involving the patellofemoral compartment were treated. The average age was 31 years (range 15-45 years), including 12 females and 7 males. Patients were prospectively followed using validated clinical outcome measures including Veterans RAND 12-item Health Survey (VR-12), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and the Tegner activity scale. Graft incorporation was evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or second-look arthroscopy.

Results

The cartilage defects included the patella ( n = 16) and the femoral trochlea ( n = 3). Mean VR-12 scores increased from 31.6 to 46.3 ( P < 0.01), mean IKDC increased from 40.0 to 69.7 ( P < 0.01), mean KOOS increased from 53.9 to 80.2 ( P < 0.01), and mean Tegner scores increased from 3.0 to 4.9 ( P < 0.01), at average follow-up of 41.9 months (range 24-62 months). Of the 3 patients who underwent second-look arthroscopy, all demonstrated a well-incorporated graft. Mean MOCART score for the 6 patients with follow-up MRI was 62.5 (range 25-85). The reoperation rate was 21.1% and 2 patients (12.5%) experienced progressive patellofemoral osteoarthritis requiring conversion to patellofemoral arthroplasty.

Conclusion

Patients with unipolar cartilage defects involving the patellofemoral compartment of the knee can have positive outcomes at minimum 2-year follow-up after surgical treatment with a cryopreserved osteochondral allograft when concomitant pathology is also addressed, but the reoperation rate is high and bipolar cartilage lesions may increase the failure rate.
Effect of Systematic Exercise Rehabilitation on Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chao Jing , Jing Zhang , Xuehua Bai , Peilei Yang , Qi Gong
Published: February 2020

Objectives

We aimed to compare the outcomes of exercise rehabilitation and conventional treatment in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Methods

This trial included a total of 166 patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis; they were randomly divided into groups. The experimental group underwent systematic exercise rehabilitation, while the control group received naproxen ( n = 28), diclofenac ( n = 27), or celecoxib ( n = 19). Improvement in symptoms, knee function, and quality of life were compared. SPSS Statistics 24.0 was used for the data analysis.

Results

The mean age of patients was 56.0 ± 10.5 years, and the average follow-up time was 12 ± 2.3 weeks. No statistically significant differences were seen in age, body mass index, and sex ( P > 0.05) between the groups. The average Western Ontario and MacMaster Universities (WOMAC) scores after treatment were 84.4 ± 15.2, 108.3 ± 3.9, 107.4 ± 5.4, and 107 ± 6.0 in the exercise rehabilitation, diclofenac, naproxen, and celecoxib groups, respectively. The mean Lysholm scores were 60.3 ± 14.9, 41.0 ± 0.1, 43.5 ± 5.3, and 41.7 ± 3.6 in the exercise rehabilitation, diclofenac, naproxen, and celecoxib groups, respectively. The mean SF-36 (Short Form-36 Survey) scores were 105.4 ± 21.5, 82.5 ± 3.7, 84.2 ± 3.5, and 83.7 ± 5.0 in the exercise rehabilitation, naproxen, celecoxib, and diclofenac groups, respectively. The average ranges of knee motion were 125.0 ± 6.2°, 116.4 ± 1.4°, 114.7 ± 1.1°, and 115.7 ± 0.8° after exercise rehabilitation, diclofenac, naproxen, and celecoxib treatments, respectively. These data presented statistical differences between the groups.

Conclusion

Exercise better improved symptoms and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis over a 12-week follow-up period than that achieved with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and COX-2 inhibitors.
Dyshidrotic eczema in two patients on secukinumab for plaque psoriasis: A case report
Authors: Bose Reetesh , Beecker Jennifer
Published: February 2020

Secukinumab was the first fully human anti-interleukin-17a monoclonal antibody and successfully treated moderate-severe psoriasis. These new, targeted, medications are becoming more ubiquitous, but long-term side effects are not fully known. Post-market surveillance is crucial to identify delayed adverse events, analogous to the paradoxical development of pustular psoriasis in a subset of patients treated with the anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha class drugs. Dyshidrotic eczema and pompholyx are rare variants of dermatitis characterized by vesicles or bullae on the palms, soles and sides of the fingers. The etiology of dyshidrotic eczema is not always known, but medications have been implicated in a minority of patients. Herein, we present two cases of dyshidrotic eczema developing in patients on secukinumab for psoriasis. Extended follow-up and larger numbers of patients are needed to fully understand the potential association between secukinumab and dyshidrotic eczema.
Primary pleural angiosarcoma: Case report and literature review
Authors: Sedhai Yub Raj , Basnyat Soney , Golamari Reshma , Koirala Ajay , Yuan Mengdan
Published: February 2020

Primary pleural angiosarcoma is an exceptionally rare malignancy of pleura originating from the vascular endothelial cells. Here, we present a 70-year-old African-American female who presented with 1-month history of dyspnea on exertion, loss of appetite, and loss of weight along with left-sided pleuritic chest pain. Evaluation revealed hemorrhagic pleural effusion in the left pleural cavity. Computed tomography of the chest performed after therapeutic thoracocentesis revealed left upper lobe lung mass along with multiple nodules in right lung. Mass was biopsied at video-assisted thoracoscopy. Histopathology was consistent with high-grade angiosarcoma. Endothelial origin of the tumor cells was confirmed with positive immunohistochemical staining with CD31 antibodies. Our patient was diagnosed with primary pleural angiosarcoma metastatic to the lung. She opted for palliative care and had a rapidly declining clinical course and expired within 5 weeks of the diagnosis. Here, we present a case report and review the relevant literature.
Field assessment of liquefaction prediction models based on geotechnical versus geospatial data, with lessons for each
Authors: Geyin Mertcan , Baird Alex J , Maurer Brett W
Published: February 2020

Semi-empirical models based on in situ geotechnical tests have been the standard-of-practice for predicting soil liquefaction since 1971. More recently, prediction models based on free, readily available data were proposed. These “geospatial” models rely on satellite remote-sensing to infer subsurface traits without in situ tests. Using 15,223 liquefaction case-histories from 24 earthquakes, this study assesses the performance of 23 models based on geotechnical or geospatial data using standardized metrics. Uncertainty due to finite sampling of case-histories is accounted for and used to establish statistical significance. Geotechnical predictions are significantly more efficient on a global scale, yet successive models proposed over the last 20 years show little or no demonstrable improvement. In addition, geospatial models perform equally well for large subsets of the data—a provocative finding given the relative time- and cost-requirements underlying these predictions. Through this performance comparison, lessons for improving each class of model are elucidated in detail.
Design strategies to achieve target collapse risks for reinforced concrete wall buildings in sedimentary basins
Authors: Marafi Nasser A , Makdisi Andrew J , Berman Jeffrey W , Eberhard Marc O
Published: February 2020

Studies of recorded ground motions and simulations have shown that deep sedimentary basins can greatly increase the damage expected during earthquakes. Unlike past earthquake design provisions, future ones are likely to consider basin effects, but the consequences of accounting for these effects are uncertain. This article quantifies the impacts of basin amplification on the collapse risk of 4- to 24-story reinforced concrete wall building archetypes in the uncoupled direction. These buildings were designed for the seismic hazard level in Seattle according to the ASCE 7-16 design provisions, which neglect basin effects. For ground motion map frameworks that do consider basin effects (2018 USGS National Seismic Hazard Model), the average collapse risk for these structures would be 2.1% in 50 years, which exceeds the target value of 1%. It is shown that this 1% target could be achieved by: (1) increasing the design forces by 25%, (2) decreasing the drift limits from 2.0% to 1.25%, or (3) increasing the median drift capacity of the gravity systems to exceed 9%. The implications for these design changes are quantified in terms of the cross-sectional area of the walls, longitudinal reinforcement, and usable floor space. It is also shown that the collapse risk increases to 2.8% when the results of physics-based ground motion simulations are used for the large-magnitude Cascadia subduction interface earthquake contribution to the hazard. In this case, it is necessary to combine large changes in the drift capacities, design forces, and/or drift limits to meet the collapse risk target.
Standardised clinical data from patients with primary ciliary dyskinesia: FOLLOW-PCD
Authors: Goutaki Myrofora , Papon Jean-François , Boon Mieke , Casaulta Carmen , Eber Ernst , Escudier Estelle , Halbeisen Florian S. , Harris Amanda , Hogg Claire , Honore Isabelle , Jung Andreas , Karadag Bulent , Koerner-Rettberg Cordula , Legendre Marie , Maitre Bernard , Nielsen Kim G. , Rubbo Bruna , Rumman Nisreen , Schofield Lynne , Shoemark Amelia , Thouvenin Guillaume , Willkins Hannah , Lucas Jane S. , Kuehni Claudia E.
Published: February 2020

Clinical data on primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) are limited, heterogeneous and mostly derived from retrospective chart reviews, leading to missing data and unreliable symptoms and results of physical examinations. We need standardised prospective data collection to study phenotypes, severity and prognosis and improve standards of care.

A large, international and multidisciplinary group of PCD experts developed FOLLOW-PCD, a standardised clinical PCD form and patient questionnaire. We identified existing forms for clinical data collectionviathe Better Experimental Approaches to Treat PCD (BEAT-PCD) COST Action network and a literature review. We selected and revised the content items with the working group and patient representatives. We then revised several drafts in an adapted Delphi process, refining the content and structure.

FOLLOW-PCD has a modular structure, to allow flexible use based on local practice and research focus. It includes patient-completed versions for the modules on symptoms and lifestyle. The form allows a comprehensive standardised clinical assessment at baseline and for annual reviews and a short documentation for routine follow-up. It can either be completed using printable paper forms or using an online REDCap database.

Data collected in FOLLOW-PCD version 1.0 is available in real-time for national and international monitoring and research. The form will be adapted in the future after extensive piloting in different settings and we encourage the translation of the patient questionnaires to multiple languages. FOLLOW-PCD will facilitate quality research based on prospective standardised data from routine care, which can be pooled between centres, to provide first-line and real-time evidence for clinical decision-making.
Hydrogen Can Passivate Carbon Impurities in Mg-Doped GaN
Authors: Zhang Yuheng , Liang Feng , Zhao Degang , Jiang Desheng , Liu Zongshun , Zhu Jianjun , Yang Jing , Liu Shuangtao
Published: February 2020

The effect of unintentionally doped hydrogen on the properties of Mg-doped p-GaN samples grown via metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) is investigated through room temperature photoluminescence (PL) and Hall and secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) measurements. It is found that there is an interaction between the residual hydrogen and carbon impurities. An increase of the carbon doping concentration can increase resistivity of the p-GaN and weaken blue luminescence (BL) band intensity. However, when hydrogen incorporation increased with carbon doping concentration, the increase of resistivity caused by carbon impurity is weaken and the BL band intensity is enhanced. This suggests that the co-doped hydrogen not only passivate MgGa, but also can passivate carbon impurities in Mg-doped p-GaN.
Effect of the Niobium-Doped Titanium Oxide Thickness and Thermal Oxide Layer for Silicon Quantum Dot Solar Cells as a Dopant-Blocking Layer
Authors: Akaishi Ryushiro , Kitazawa Kohei , Gotoh Kazuhiro , Kato Shinya , Usami Noritaka , Kurokawa Yasuyoshi
Published: February 2020

Silicon quantum dot (Si-QD) embedded in amorphous silicon oxide is used for p-i-n solar cell on quartz substrate as a photogeneration layer. To suppress diffusion of phosphorus from an n-type layer to a Si-QD photogeneration layer, niobium-doped titanium oxide (TiOx:Nb) is adopted. Hydrofluoric acid treatment is carried out for a part of the samples to remove the thermal oxide layer in the interface of TiOx:Nb/n-type layer. The thermal oxide acts as a photo-generated carrier-blocking layer. Solar cell properties using 10-nm-thick TiOx:Nb without the thermal oxide are better than those with the thermal oxide, notably short circuit current density is improved up to 1.89 mA/cm2. The photo-generated carrier occurs in Si-QD with quantum confinement effect. The 10-nm-thick TiOx:Nb with the thermal oxide layer effectively blocks P; however, P-diffusion is not completely suppressed by the 10-nm-thick TiOx:Nb without the thermal oxide. These results indicate that the total thickness of TiOx:Nb and thermal oxide layer influence the P-blocking effect. To achieve the further improvement of Si-QD solar cell, over 10-nm-thick TiOx:Nb is needed.
Fate simulation and risk assessment of TBT and TPhT considering water level fluctuations in the TGR before and after AFS Convention implementation in China
Authors: Gao Jun-min , Fu Ping-ting , Chen Xiao-ling , Guo Jin-song , Hou Xian-yu , Zeng Jie , Chen Zhu-man
Published: February 2020

Background

The Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) is the largest freshwater reservoir in China. Previous studies showed that organotin pollution is present in the TGR. In June 2011, the AFS Convention went into effect in China. In order to explore the pollution evolution processes of tributyltin (TBT) and triphenyltin (TPhT) before and after implementation of the AFS Convention and their variations with water level fluctuations in the TGR, the characteristic parameters of the TGR and the physicochemical parameters of TBT and TPhT were used to develop a level IV multimedia fugacity model considering water level fluctuations to simulate the fate, transfer, and transport of TBT and TPhT in the TGR. Based on the simulation results, exposure concentrations of TBT and TPhT were then used to assess the ecological and health risks in the TGR region (TGRR).

Results

The simulation results showed that the average concentrations of both TBT and TPhT decreased in all compartments except the sediment, whereas the total content of the system continued to increase after the AFS Convention was implemented. The concentration of TBT in the sediment was higher than that in fish, while the concentration of TPhT in fish was much greater than that in the sediment. The total contents of both TBT and TPhT were highest in the sediment phase. In addition, variations in water level of the TGR significantly affected the distribution and transport of TBT and TPhT in the TGR.

Conclusions

Sediment is an important source and sink of TBT and TPhT, and the water level regulation of the TGR strengthened the two roles of sediment. Both TBT and TPhT in surface water, but especially TBT, carried significant chronic exposure risks to the aquatic community of the TGR. Intake of TPhT, mainly through eating fish, posed a potential health risk to the population in the TGRR.
The disruption transport model: computing user delays resulting from infrastructure failures for multi-modal passenger & freight traffic
Authors: van der Tuin Marieke S. , Pel Adam J.
Published: February 2020

Transport infrastructure owners are moving from reactive toward proactive infrastructure management. This involves computation of costs associated with failure or maintenance, including expected transport delays. These delays are often computed by multiplying additional travel time by the number of travellers. However, this does not reflect the process of decision-making by travellers using the infrastructure asset, such as mode choices, departure time changes and trip cancellations to reduce time wasted in a traffic jam. Therefore, we introduce a multi-modal transport model that simulates travellers’ behaviour after a large-scale infrastructure failure at a critical node in the European TEN-T network. We use a novel approach of modelling the region around the infrastructure disruption in a very detailed manner, whereas the rest of Europe is modelled in a more basic way. This enables us to model impacts of disruptions in high detail, whereas also effects throughout Europe are considered, within reasonable computation time.
Genome-wide identification of MAPKKK genes and their responses to phytoplasma infection in Chinese jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.)
Authors: Liu Zhiguo , Wang Lixin , Xue Chaoling , Chu Yuetong , Gao Weilin , Zhao Yitong , Zhao Jin , Liu Mengjun
Published: February 2020

Background

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades play vital roles in signal transduction in response to a wide range of biotic and abiotic stresses. In a previous study, we identified ten ZjMAPKs and five ZjMAPKKs in the Chinese jujube genome. We found that some members of ZjMAPKs and ZjMAPKKs may play key roles in the plant’s response to phytoplasma infection. However, how these ZjMAPKKs are modulated by ZjMAPKKKs during the response process has not been elucidated. Little information is available regarding MAPKKKs in Chinese jujube.

Results

A total of 56 ZjMAPKKKs were identified in the jujube genome. All of these kinases contain the key S-TKc (serine/threonine protein kinase) domain, which is distributed among all 12 chromosomes. Phylogenetic analyses show that these ZjMAPKKKs can be classified into two subfamilies. Specifically, 41 ZjMAPKKKs belong to the Raf subfamily, and 15 belong to the MEKK subfamily. In addition, the ZjMAPKKKs in each subfamily share the same conserved motifs and gene structures. Only one pair of ZjMAPKKKs (15/16, on chromosome 5) was found to be tandemly duplicated. Using qPCR, the expression profiles of these MAPKKKs were investigated in response to infection with phytoplasma. In the three main infected tissues (witches’ broom leaves, phyllody leaves, and apparently normal leaves), ZjMAPKKK26 and − 45 were significantly upregulated, and ZjMAPKKK3, − 43 and − 50 were significantly downregulated. ZjMAPKKK4, − 10, − 25 and − 44 were significantly and highly induced in sterile cultivated tissues infected by phytoplasma, while ZjMAPKKK6, − 7, − 17, − 18, − 30, − 34, − 35, − 37, − 40, − 41, − 43, − 46, − 52 and − 53 were significantly downregulated.

Conclusions

For the first time, we present an identification and classification analysis of ZjMAPKKKs. Some ZjMAPKKK genes may play key roles in the response to phytoplasma infection. This study provides an initial understanding of the mechanisms through which ZjMAPKKKs are involved in the response of Chinese jujube to phytoplasma infection.
Serum miR-101-3p combined with pepsinogen contributes to the early diagnosis of gastric cancer
Authors: Zeng Weiwei , Zhang Shuxiang , Yang Lei , Wei Wenchao , Gao Jie , Guo Ni , Wu Fengting
Published: February 2020

Background

This study aimed to explore the diagnostic value of serum miR-101-3p combined with pepsinogen (PG) on early diagnosis of gastric cancer (GC).

Methods

A total of 61 atrophic gastritis (AG) and 86 GC patients, and 50 healthy volunteers were enrolled. The serum expression of miR-101-3p was measured by qRT-PCR. The serum content of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was measured by Electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. The serum contents of PGI and PGII were measured by Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The diagnostic value of serum markers on AG and GC was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results

The expression of miR-101-3p, the content of PGI and the ratio of PGI/II were significantly decreased, and the content of PGII was significantly increased in AG patients compared with those in normal controls. The changes of the above serum indicators were more obvious in GC patients than those in AG patients. The content of CEA was significantly higher in GC patients than that in AG patients. In addition, the expression of miR-101-3p was negatively associated with the submucosal infiltration in GC patients. MiR-101-3p exhibited high diagnostic value on AG (AUC 0.8493, sensitivity 80.33%, specificity 80%) and GC (AUC 0.8749, sensitivity 72.09%, specificity 86.49%). MiR-101-3p + PGI + PGI/II (AUC 0.856, sensitivity 80.23%, specificity 77.05%) exhibited a high diagnostic value in distinguishing between AG and GC.

Conclusions

MiR-101-3p was a potential diagnostic marker for AG and GC. MiR-101-3p + PGI + PGI/II was effective in distinguishing between AG and GC.
High detection rate of osteoporosis with screening of a general hospitalized population: a 6-year study in 6406 patients in a university hospital setting
Authors: Malaise Olivier , Detroz Marie , Leroy Mathieu , Leonori Lorenzo , Seidel Laurence , Malaise Michel G.
Published: February 2020

Background

Osteoporosis is a highly prevalent disease identified by Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) that can be performed in an ambulatory (out-patient) or hospitalized population. We evaluated the use of baseline in-hospital DEXA screening to identify osteoporosis in ambulatory care and hospitalized patients; we also assessed specific risk factors for osteoporosis among these populations.

Methods

We included a baseline initial DEXA from 6406 consecutive patients at our tertiary referral University Hospital.

Results

Osteoporosis was diagnosed in 22.3% of the study population. In univariate analysis, osteoporosis risk factors were age, fracture history and low BMI (for all 3 sites), but also corticotherapy (lumbar spine and femoral neck) and male (lumbar spine). In multivariate analysis, age, fracture history, low BMI, and male increased osteoporosis risk. In-hospital screening yielded a higher percentage of osteoporosis positive scans than ambulatory care screening (31.8% vs 18.5%, p < 0.001). In-hospital screening targeted an older and more predominantly male population with a higher fracture history. Z-scores revealed that this difference was not only due to an older age of the population and mainly concerned cortical bone.

Conclusions

In-hospital osteoporosis screening revealed more osteoporosis than screening in ambulatory practice and could be an additional tool to improve the identification and management of osteoporosis. In addition to typical risk factors, we identified male gender as associated with osteoporosis detection in our cohort.