bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Target blood pressure and control status in Asia
Authors: Chia Yook‐Chin , Kario Kazuomi , Turana Yuda , Nailes Jennifer , Tay Jam Chin , Siddique Saulat , Park Sungha , Shin Jinho , Buranakitjaroen Peera , Chen Chen‐Huan , Divinagracia Romeo , Hoshide Satoshi , Minh Huynh Van , Sison Jorge , Soenarta Arieska Ann , Sogunuru Guru Prasad , Sukonthasarn Apichard , Teo Boon Wee , Verma Narsingh , Zhang Yuqing , Wang Tzung‐Dau , Wang Ji‐Guang
Published: November 2019

It is widely accepted that hypertension constitutes a significant cardiovascular risk factor and that treating high blood pressure (BP) effectively reduces cardiovascular risk. An important issue in Asia is not just the high prevalence of hypertension, particularly in some countries, but also the low level of awareness and treatment rates in many regions. The 2017 update of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association hypertension guidelines raised the question about which BP threshold should be used to diagnose and treat hypertension. Although there is a theoretical rationale for a stricter BP criterion in Asia given the ethnic‐specific features of hypertension in the region, the majority of countries in Asia have retained a diagnostic BP threshold of ≥140/90 mm Hg. Although lowering thresholds might make theoretical sense, this would increase the prevalence of hypertension and also markedly reduce BP control rates. In addition, there are currently no data from robust randomized clinical trials of the benefits of the lower targets in preventing cardiovascular disease and reducing cardiovascular risk, particularly in high‐risk patients and especially for Asian populations. There is also no defined home BP treatment target level for an office BP treatment target of 130/80 mm Hg. However, in this regard, in the interim, lifestyle modifications, including reducing body weight and salt intake, should form an important part of hypertension management strategies in Asia, while studies on treating at lower BP threshold level in Asians and getting to lower BP targets will be helpful to inform and optimize the management of hypertension in the region.
Factors associated with the glucose‐lowering efficacy of sitagliptin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: Pooled analysis of Japanese clinical trials
Authors: Tajima Naoko , Eiki Jun‐ichi , Okamoto Taro , Okuyama Kotoba , Kawashima Masaru , Engel Samuel S
Published: November 2019

Aims/Introduction

To explore the factors associated with the glucose‐lowering efficacy of sitagliptin treatment in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Materials and Methods

This was a post‐hoc analysis of pooled data from seven sitagliptin phase II and III clinical studies carried out in Japan. All studies were double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group and of 12‐week duration. The analysis population consisted of 1,075 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. In two of the trials, sitagliptin 50 mg and/or 100 mg daily were used as monotherapy; in five others, sitagliptin 50 mg daily was used as add‐on treatment to ongoing pioglitazone, glimepiride, metformin, voglibose or glinides. Efficacy (reduction in hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c]) was evaluated in 12 sets of subgroups defined by demographic, glycemic, pancreatic β‐cell function and insulin resistance parameters. An analysis of covariance model was used to evaluate the interaction between each parameter and efficacy.

Results

Sitagliptin consistently provided a clinically meaningful reduction in HbA1c relative to placebo across all subgroups. Within subgroups, a greater absolute HbA1c reduction was associated with higher baseline HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose and 2‐h post‐meal glucose. Lower β‐cell function, represented by homeostatic model assessment of β‐cell function and insulinogenic index, was also associated with greater HbA1c reduction. In contrast, age, sex, body mass index, duration of type 2 diabetes mellitus and insulin resistance‐related parameters did not interact with HbA1c changes.

Conclusions

Sitagliptin treatment was associated with clinically meaningful improvement in glycemic control in all subgroups of Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus that were evaluated. Higher baseline glycemic status and lower baseline β‐cell function were identified as factors associated with greater HbA1c reduction after sitagliptin treatment.
Novel topical skin hydration agent containing Anadenanthera colubrina polysaccharide‐standardized herbal preparation
Authors: Katekawa Edson , Caverzan Jeanifer , Mussi Lilian , Camargo‐Junior Flavio B. , Sufi Bianca , Padovani Giovana , Nazato Lucas , Nogueira Cecilia , Magalhães Wagner V. , Di Stasi Luiz C.
Published: November 2019

Background

Hydration is an important factor to promote skin barrier function, metabolism, and appearance. In this process, the presence of aquaglyceroporins, envelope and lipid synthesis, and metabolism proteins are essential to provide greater corneocyte cohesion and to form a barrier avoiding transepidermal water loss.

Objective

We evaluated the effects of a new topical pigment‐free agent containing an Anadenanthera colubrina polysaccharide‐rich dermocosmetic preparation (ACP) on the aquaporin‐3 (AQP‐3), filaggrin (FLG), involucrin (INV), glucocerebrosidase (GBA), and elongation of very‐long‐chain fatty acid (ELOVL) proteins production in skin human fragments, as well as on the transepidermal water loss in a double‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial.

Methods

AQP3, FLG, INV, GBA, and ELOVL3 levels were measured by immunofluorescence analysis in human skin explants. Clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of ACP 1% and ACP 3% on the transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

Results

Image and statistical analysis showed that ACP 3% significantly increased at 90% the expression of AQP3. Similarly, ACP 3% was able to promote a significant increase of 68% and 51% in FLG and INV, respectively. ACP 3% produced no effects on the GBA and ELOVL3 proteins. Transepidermal water loss was significantly reduced in human volunteers under treatment with ACP 1% and ACP 3%.

Conclusion

ACP reduced transepidermal water loss in a clinical trial, promoting human skin hydration. These effects were related to modulation of the AQP3, FLG, and INV as evidenced by immunofluorescence assay. This way, A colubrina polysaccharide‐rich phytopharmaceutical preparation is an effective additive product to skin hydration.
Quantitative analysis of ovarian cysts and tumors by using T2 star mapping
Authors: Takahashi Nozomi , Yoshino Osamu , Hayashida Emi , Nakamura Masanobu , Hori Masaaki , Iwahata Shunsuke , Onda Takashi , Unno Nobuya , Fujii Tomoyuki , Osuga Yutaka
Published: November 2019

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of T2 star (T2*) mapping in diagnosing ovarian cysts/ tumors.

Methods

Pelvic magnetic resonance examinations including T2*WI were performed before surgery in 35 patients. The region of interest, consisted of a 10 mm2 diameter circle, was set as much as possible inside ovarian tumors/cysts to measure T2*values, and mean T2* values were compared in ovarian cyst/tumor types, retrospectively. Diagnoses of 40 ovarian cysts/tumors were determined by pathological reports, in which 17 were endometriomas, 13 were mature cystic teratomas, 6 were mucinous cystadenomas and 4 were serous cystadenomas.

Results

The average T2* values of endometrioma was 56.8 ± 8.7 ms (mean ± SEM), which was significantly lower than that of mucinous cystadenoma (334.2 ± 58.5 ms, mean ± SEM) or serous cystadenoma (237.0 ± 45.4 ms, mean ± SEM). There was no difference in T2* values between endometrioma and mature cystic teratoma (64.1 ± 22.6 ms, mean ± SEM).

Receiver operating characteristics curve analysis revealed that optimal cut‐off value for differential diagnosis of endometrioma and mucinous or serous cystadenoma was 149.2 ms as T2* value, which has an area under the curve of 0.95 (sensitivity = 92.4%, specificity = 78.6%).

Conclusion

T2* values were useful to diagnose various types of ovarian cyst/tumor.
Impairments due to tooth loss and prosthetic expectations in patients from an urban area and a rural area in Sweden. A qualitative study
Authors: Boeskov Øzhayat Esben , Korduner Eva‐Karin , Collin Bagewitz Ingrid , Öwall Bengt
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To explore impairments due to tooth loss and expectations of prosthetic replacements in an urban group and a rural group of patients in Sweden.

Material and Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were performed on 35 partially edentulous patients from prosthodontic specialist clinics located in an urban area and a rural area in Sweden. The interviews focused on impairments due to tooth loss and expectations of prosthetic restorations. Analysis was made using the grounded theory approach, allowing in‐depth investigation of the phenomenon.

Results

Functional, aesthetic and social impairments were mentioned, and coping strategies (eg chewing differently and laughing less) and modifications (eg age, time and social setting) of the impairments were described. The rural patient group accepted impairments somewhat better than the urban one. Otherwise, there was only minor difference between the groups. Removable prosthodontic restorations were more acceptable among rural patients. Urban patients insisted more often on implant‐based restorations and had higher expectations of longevity. Patients with minor impairments still wanted treatment, based on concerns about the future of their dentition. The interviews themselves generated new thoughts in the patients and were thus considered valuable by the patients.

Conclusions

Impairments due to tooth loss and expectations of prosthetic replacements were expressed in the same way in the rural and urban patient groups. However, in the rural population, there was a higher acceptance of impairments and also of removable prosthetic restorations, whereas the urban population expressed a higher demand for implant‐based restorations.
Søren Kierkegaard and the Impossibility of (Un)Forgiveness
Authors: Marcar G. P.
Published: November 2019

Discussions of forgiveness within Christian theology have tended to focus on the conditions in which forgiveness may be a moral or divine imperative for believers. With regard to Søren Kierkegaard’s theological ethics, this article explicates a radical perspective. For the Kierkegaardian Christian lover, no definitive relational break with the other (however objectionable) can occur. As Kierkegaard emphasizes in Works of Love, in a discourse which bears this sentiment as its title, “love abides.” Indeed, I illustrate how in three consecutive discourses in Works of Love—“VI: Love Abideth,” “VII: Mercy, a Work of Love,” and “VIII: The Victory of the Reconciliation in Love”—Kierkegaard’s ethical vision is grounded in Christian love’s immutability. For Kierkegaard, if Christian love is present, then forgiveness is redundant, and unforgiveness is impossible.
The Innocuous Legacy of Christian Ethics in Comparative Religious Ethics
Authors: Stalnaker Aaron
Published: November 2019

I argue that even if the influence of Christian ethics on comparative religious ethics (CRE) is inevitable, it need not be problematic. The legacy would only be worrisome if it stacked the deck in favor of Christian ethics or predisposed comparative ethicists to conform to the methods or thematic concerns of Christian ethics. Following Gadamer, I suggest that the ideal of presuppositionless objectivity is an illusion that applies to not only those who emerge from a Christian cultural context but in every global context. Given the specific historical and cultural contexts of the emergence of CRE, the residue of Christian ethics in CRE is understandable and expected. Thus, the legacy of Christian ethics in CRE will only be problematic to the extent that the potential dangers of Christian hegemony remain hidden, which does not seem to be the case in the contemporary academic context.
Mitigating the Risk of Infectious Diseases Among Rural Drug Users in Western North Carolina: Results of the Southern Appalachia Test, Link, Care (SA‐TLC) Health Care Provider Survey
Authors: Hurt Christopher B. , Carpenter Delesha M. , Evon Donna M. , Hennessy Caitlin M. , Rhea Sarah K. , Zule William A.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

To characterize how health care providers in western North Carolina (NC) manage patients with substance use disorders and to inform strategies for preventing injection drug use (IDU)‐associated outbreaks of bloodborne infectious diseases.

Methods

We collected data on practice characteristics, provider sociodemographics, and attitudes and beliefs about hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), opioid use, and IDU via online survey. Providers in 8 counties of western NC were invited to participate by email. Results were analyzed using descriptive and bivariate statistics.

Findings

Of 84 respondents participating between 30 July and 3 December 2018, 81% were practicing clinicians and 46% served a county identified as being vulnerable to IDU‐associated outbreaks of HCV or HIV. A substantial proportion was unsure about injecting behaviors among patients. Scores reflected comfort working with opioid users, though this varied by medical specialty. One‐quarter of respondents “never” discussed harm reduction or HCV treatment with patients known to inject drugs; 22% “never” discussed HIV screening with injectors; and 1 in 3 referred at‐risk patients out for HCV or HIV testing rather than ordering a test themselves. Scores indicated low levels of stigma toward persons living with HCV or HIV. Respondents identified HIV treatment, HCV treatment, and liver disease management as training needs.

Conclusions

Our findings provide insights to inform health infrastructure improvement, with the goal of preventing HCV or HIV outbreaks in southern Appalachia. Rural health care workers are willing to receive additional training if it can improve care for patients affected by substance use disorders.
Metronidazole treatment of acute diarrhea in dogs: A randomized double blinded placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Langlois Daniel K. , Koenigshof Amy M. , Mani Rinosh
Published: November 2019

Background

Metronidazole is commonly administered to dogs with acute diarrhea, but there is limited evidence to support this practice.

Objective

To investigate the effects of metronidazole administration on dogs with acute nonspecific diarrhea.

Animals

Thirty‐one dogs, including 14 test population dogs and 17 controls.

Methods

Randomized controlled clinical trial. Dogs with acute diarrhea in which causation was not determined by routine fecal diagnostic testing were randomly assigned to metronidazole treatment (10‐15 mg/kg PO q12h for 7 days) or placebo. Fecal cultures and characterization ofClostridium perfringensisolates also were performed. Owners maintained medication and fecal scoring logs, and fecal diagnostic tests were repeated on day 7.

Results

The mean ± SD time to resolution of diarrhea for test population dogs (2.1 ± 1.6 days) was less than that for controls (3.6 ± 2.1 days,P= .04). Potential relationships ofC. perfringenswith acute diarrhea pathogenesis were not investigated, but only 3 of 13 (23.1%) test population dogs had persistentC. perfringenscarriage at day 7, which was less than the 11 of 14 (78.6%) controls with persistent growth (P= .007).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Our results suggest that metronidazole treatment can shorten duration of diarrhea and decrease fecal culture detection ofC. perfringensin some dogs with acute nonspecific diarrhea. Additional studies are needed to assess the benefits and risks of routine use of metronidazole for this purpose because most dogs achieve resolution of diarrhea within several days regardless of treatment.
BB0326 is responsible for the formation of periplasmic flagellar collar and assembly of the stator complex in Borrelia burgdorferi
Authors: Xu Hui , He Jun , Liu Jun , Motaleb Md A.
Published: November 2019

Borrelia burgdorferi is a highly motile spirochete due to its periplasmic flagella. Unlike flagella of other bacteria, spirochetes' periplasmic flagella possess a complex structure called the collar, about which little is known in terms of function and composition. Using various approaches, we have identified a novel protein, BB0326, as a key component of the collar. We show that a peripheral portion of the collar is diminished in the Δbb0326 mutant and restored in the complemented bb0326+ cells, leading us to rename BB0326 as periplasmic flagellar collar protein A or FlcA. The ΔflcA mutant cells produced fewer, abnormally tilted and shorter flagella, as well as diminished stators, suggesting that FlcA is crucial for flagellar and stator assemblies. We provide further evidence that FlcA interacts with the stator and that this collar–stator interaction is essential for the high torque needed to power the spirochete's periplasmic flagellar motors. These observations suggest that the collar provides various important functions to the spirochete's periplasmic flagellar assembly and rotation.
Hospitalized fracture rates amongst patients with chronic kidney disease in Australia using data linkage
Authors: Lin Raymond , Toussaint Nigel D. , Gallagher Martin , Cass Alan , Kotwal Sradha
Published: November 2019

Background

Renal osteodystrophy leading to fractures in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with significant hospitalization, morbidity, mortality and health care costs. There is a paucity of data on fractures in the CKD population in Australia.

Aim

To describe the trends and impact of hospitalized fractures in an Australian population of non‐dialysis CKD patients.

Methods

Retrospective observational data derived using data linkage. Fracture rates, trends in hospital admissions, comorbidity burden and mortality were analysed in a non‐dialysis CKD population between 2000 and 2010 in the Australian state of New South Wales. Hospitalized patients with CKD and fractures were compared with CKD patients without fracture.

Results

A total of 149 839 hospitalized patients with CKD were included, of whom 9898 (6.6%) experienced one or more fractures. Patients with fracture were older, more likely to be female with a higher comorbidity burden than those without. Hospital admissions involving fracture were longer than non‐fracture admissions (14.3 vs 5.9 days, P < .0001) and patients were less likely to be discharged home (28.3% vs 80.9%, P < .0001). The 12‐month mortality rate was high at 41%.

Conclusion

Australian non‐dialysis CKD patients with hospitalized fractures were older, had a greater burden of disease, and have similar rates of fracture and associated mortality compared to international CKD cohorts. Implications of fracture requiring hospitalization are considerable, with longer admissions, greater healthcare costs, lower likelihood of discharge home and significant mortality. As fracture prevention in the CKD population evolves, treatment algorithms should account for those at greatest risk.
Association between severe periodontitis and chronic kidney disease severity in predialytic patients: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Schütz Jasper da Silva , de Azambuja Carolina Barrera , Cunha Giuliano Reolon , Cavagni Juliano , Rösing Cassiano Kuchenbecker , Haas Alex Nogueira , Thomé Fernando Saldanha , Fiorini Tiago
Published: November 2019

Objective

The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to evaluate the association between periodontitis and different severities of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in predialytic patients.

Materials and Methods

Demographic, socioeconomic, and medical data of 139 patients from the nephrology service of one university hospital in Porto Alegre, Brazil, were obtained through interview and clinical records. Full‐mouth six‐sites per tooth periodontal examinations were performed. Associations between periodontitis, stages of CKD, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were estimated by multivariable models adjusted for sex, smoking, vitamin D supplementation, physical activity, and renal treatment duration. CKD was classified based on eGFR (<60 ml/min/1.73 m2) estimated by the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation.

Results

Patients with severe periodontitis, compared to those without severe periodontitis, had 2.8 (95% CI: 1.25–6.62) and 3.4 (95% CI: 1.27–9.09) times higher risk of being in stages 4 and 5 of CKD, respectively. Having ≥ 2 teeth with clinical attachment loss (CAL) ≥6 mm increased 3.9 times the risk of being in stage 5 of CKD. Patients with severe periodontitis and ≥2 teeth with CAL ≥ 6 mm had 4.4 ml/min/1.732 and 5.2 ml/min/1.732 lower eGFR (p‐values < .05), respectively.

Conclusion

Severe periodontitis was associated with poor renal conditions in predialytic CKD patients, strengthening the importance of periodontal evaluation in such patient population.
Dental changes in children with congenital Zika syndrome
Authors: Gusmão Teresa Paula de Lima , Faria Andreza Barkokebas Santos de , Leão Filho Jair Carneiro , Carvalho Alessandra de Albuquerque Tavares , Gueiros Luiz Alcino Monteiro , Leão Jair Carneiro
Published: November 2019

Objective

To describe oral alterations in children with congenital Zika syndrome (CZS).

Methods

This was a case series, whose research instrument was a structured questionnaire, associated with the use of medical record data and extra and intraoral clinical examination.

Results

Thirty‐two children were evaluated, the majority male (18/32%–56.3%), mean age 22 months (SD = 2.71). It was also observed that the majority of the patients (19/32%–59.4%) presented a low family income. All the children had a mean head circumference of 29.43 cm (SD = 1.42). Regarding the alterations, an ogival‐shaped palate was observed in 14 children (43.7%), and delayed chronology of eruption was observed in 15 children (46.9%), of whom 7 children (21.9%) did not present eruption of the upper left lateral incisor (p = .0002) and upper right lateral incisor (p = .002) until the moment of analysis. Additionally, 03 children with yellowish dental pigmentation were identified in erupted teeth after the onset of phenobarbital use. Enamel hypoplasia was identified in 9 children (28.1%) and only one child with ankyloglossia.

Conclusion

CZS may present delayed chronology of eruption, ankyloglossia, ogival‐shaped palate, and enamel hypoplasia, requiring dental follow‐up aimed at prevention, promotion, and rehabilitation of the health of these children.
Cutaneous ultrasound and its utility in pediatric dermatology. Part I: Lumps, bumps, and inflammatory conditions
Authors: Rodríguez Bandera Ana Isabel , Sebaratnam Deshan Frank , Feito Rodríguez Marta , de Lucas Laguna Raúl
Published: November 2019

High‐frequency ultrasonography represents a promising tool for pediatric dermatologists. It is a non‐invasive diagnostic technique that is particularly appealing when working with children. It can be easily performed at the patient's bedside, avoiding diagnostic delays, sedation, or multiple visits. It represents a useful adjunct to clinical examination and can enhance our understanding of cutaneous diseases. Patient cooperation and limited training and experience are the main challenges for cutaneous ultrasonography in pediatric dermatology. This review describes cutaneous ultrasonography and the nuances of its use in the pediatric setting, followed by the ultrasonographic findings of cutaneous lumps, bumps, and inflammatory dermatoses commonly encountered in pediatric patients.
Policy Design and Achieving Social Outcomes: A Comparative Analysis of Social Enterprise Policy
Authors: Choi Donwe , Berry Frances Stokes , Ghadimi Adela
Published: November 2019

This article compares American, British, and Korean social enterprise policies to explore how government policy design shapes social enterprises and how “social benefit” and “public value” are defined. A social enterprise is defined as the legally structured organizational pursuit of blending social purpose and economic profit through business activities, and examples from each country are presented. Applying Bozeman's publicness theory, the authors demonstrate the wide range of roles that governments play in shaping social enterprises' ownership, funding, and control across the three countries using regulations, subsidies, and procurement policies. These roles may affect the impact of social enterprises in society. The case studies show that the U.S. approach to social enterprise policy is heavily market oriented, while the United Kingdom is in the middle of the market‐to‐publicness continuum, and South Korea is much closer to the publicness (government‐dominated) end of the continuum.
Vegetation development of forestry reclaimed sand and sand‐gravel pits: is it on a way towards more natural species composition?
Authors: Šebelíková Lenka , Řehounková Klára , Prach Karel
Published: November 2019

Until now, forestry reclamation has been a prevailing method used during mining‐site restoration in Central Europe. Although many studies described the process and outcome of forestry reclamation, none described in detail the vegetation development from initial to late stages. Our study aimed to fill this gap focusing on vegetation description in forestry reclaimed post‐mining sand and sand‐gravel pits across the Czech Republic, identification of the effects of the surrounding vegetation on species composition in forestry reclaimed sites, and comparison of the conservation value in terms of species richness and number of Red List species of sites originating from forestry reclamation and spontaneous revegetation. In the early stages of vegetation development of forestry reclaimed sites, dry and mesic grassland species occurred, with some species belonging to the national Red List. After about 5 years, however, these species rapidly disappeared and were replaced by woodland species. In contrast, spontaneously revegetated sites hosted much more dry and mesic grassland species, as well as Red List species, which persisted during the considered stand age (1–75 years). Although there was a large overlap in species composition between the forestry reclaimed and spontaneously revegetated sites, the study clearly demonstrated that the most valuable sites from a conservation perspective are destroyed within a few years by forestry reclamation. Therefore, spontaneous revegetation should be considered as a low‐cost alternative method to forestry reclamation for vegetation restoration in post‐mining sand and sand‐gravel pits in Central Europe.
Determining factors of cottonwood planting survival in a desert river restoration project
Authors: Laub Brian G. , Detlor Jordon , Keller Daniel L.
Published: November 2019

Planting native riparian trees can help recover wildlife and fish habitat on a local scale, when full recovery of natural processes that sustain riparian ecosystems is infeasible. To help improve planting success, we determined which environmental factors and management practices most influenced survival of planted Populus fremontii (Fremont cottonwood) in a field experiment on the San Rafael River, Utah, U.S.A. We planted 474 approximately 2‐m‐tall trees and tracked survival for 1.25 years. We used logistic regression to evaluate whether tree height, elevation above the river channel, distance to existing cottonwood or Salix exigua (coyote willow), soil conductivity, soil texture, planting depth, planting method (mechanical auger vs. hand‐digging), and provision of natural and commercial supplements affected survival probability. Survival probability decreased with elevation above the river channel bottom and was greater in auger‐dug than hand‐dug holes. Survival probability was lower in soils with the highest salinity levels and was lower in sandy soils than soils with silt and clay. Survival may be improved by planting well above the channel to avoid flooding impacts but within 2 m above the channel in auger‐dug holes to ensure access to soil moisture. Testing soil salinity and texture in areas with suitable elevation could also help improve survival. Approximately 35% of trees survived to the end of the study period, indicating that planting can help recover riparian habitat locally, especially if survival is improved in future planting efforts. However, full recovery of desired riparian habitat throughout the floodplain will require natural flows.
Influence of resisted sled‐push training on the sprint force‐velocity profile of male high school athletes
Authors: Cahill Micheál J. , Oliver Jon L. , Cronin John B. , Clark Kenneth P. , Cross Matt R. , Lloyd Rhodri S.
Published: November 2019

Sled pushing is a commonly used form of resisted sprint training; however, little empirical evidence exists, especially in youth populations. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of unresisted and resisted sled pushing across multiple loads. Fifty high school athletes were assigned to an unresisted (n = 12), or 3 resisted groups; light (n = 14), moderate (n = 13), and heavy (n = 11) resistance that caused a 25%, 50%, and 75% velocity decrement in maximum sprint speed, respectively. All participants performed two sled‐push training sessions twice weekly for 8 weeks. Before and after the training intervention, the participants performed a series of jump, strength, and sprint testing to assess athletic performance. Split times between 5 and 20 m improved significantly across all resisted groups (all P < .05, d = 0.34‐1.16) but did not improve significantly with unresisted sprinting. For all resisted groups, gains were greatest over the first 5 m (d = 0.67‐0.84) and then diminished over each subsequent 5 m split (d = 0.08‐0.57). The magnitude of gains in split times was greatest within the heavy group. Small but non‐significant within‐group effects were found in pre to post force‐velocity profiles. There was a main effect of time but no interaction effects as all groups increased force and power, although the greatest increases were observed with the heavy load (d = 0.50‐0.51). The results of this study suggest that resisted sled pushing with any load was superior to unresisted sprint training and that heavy loads may elicit the greatest gains in sprint performance over short distances.
Bootstrap inference using estimating equations and data that are linked with complex probabilistic algorithms
Authors: Chipperfield James
Published: November 2019

Probabilistic record linkage is the act of bringing together records that are believed to belong to the same unit (e.g., person or business) from two or more files. It is a common way to enhance dimensions such as time and breadth or depth of detail. Probabilistic record linkage is not an error‐free process and link records that do not belong to the same unit. Naively treating such a linked file as if it is linked without errors can lead to biased inferences. This paper develops a method of making inference with estimating equations when records are linked using algorithms that are widely used in practice. Previous methods for dealing with this problem cannot accommodate such linking algorithms. This paper develops a parametric bootstrap approach to inference in which each bootstrap replicate involves applying the said linking algorithm. This paper demonstrates the effectiveness of the method in simulations and in real applications.
Effect of medication adherence on clinical outcomes in type 2 diabetes: analysis of the SIMPLE study
Authors: Patel Sapna , Abreu Marconi , Tumyan Anna , Adams-Huet Beverley , Li Xilong , Lingvay Ildiko
Published: November 2019

Objective

Medication adherence is impacted by regimen complexity. The SIMPLE (Simple basal Insulin titration, Metformin Plus Liraglutide for type 2 diabetes with very Elevated HbA1c) study compared GLP1RA plus basal insulin (GLP1RA+BI) to basal-bolus insulin (BBI) regimen in participants with very uncontrolled type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This analysis aimed to evaluate medication adherence to GLP1RA+BI compared with BBI, the effect of adherence on clinical and patient-reported outcomes, and baseline predictors of adherence.

Research design and methods

This was an analysis of the SIMPLE study based on prespecified outcome. The study took place in pragmatic, real-world setting. A total of 120 adults with T2DM and HgbA1c≥10% were randomized to detemir plus liraglutide, or detemir plus aspart before each meal; 6-month follow-up. The main outcomes evaluated were: adherence, HgbA1c, weight, quality of life, and hypoglycemia. Adherence rate was calculated for each study medication at each follow-up visit; participants were classified as ≥80% or <80% adherent.

Result

A higher percentage of participants in the GLP1RA+BI compared with the BBI group had ≥80% adherence to detemir (59.3% vs 35.7%, p=0.02) as well as liraglutide versus aspart (57.4% vs 30.4%, p=0.007). Higher age was predictive of ≥80% adherence (OR per 5-year increment=1.48, 95% CI 1.09 to 2.0, p=0.01). Higher adherence led to greater improvement in HbA1c and weight in both groups. Treatment with GLP1RA+BI compared with BBI led to greater improvement in HbA1c, weight, and quality of life and lower risk of hypoglycemia even after adjusting for the difference in adherence between groups.

Conclusions

Adherence was higher with the simplified regimen of GLP1RA+BI compared with BBI. Greater adherence to the simpler regimen amplified the treatment effect on HbA1c, weight, quality of life, and risk of hypoglycemia, yet statistically significant greater benefits were noted even when adjusted for adherence.

Trial registration number

NCT01966978
Survival of bovine digital dermatitis treponemes on hoof knife blades and the effects of various disinfectants
Authors: Gillespie Amy , Carter Stuart D , Blowey Roger W , Evans Nicholas
Published: November 2019

Background

Bovine digital dermatitis (BDD) is a painful infectious foot disease of cattle, and much evidence implicates a pathogenic role for treponemes. This study measured the survival of BDD treponemes on hoof knife blades and tested the efficacy of relevant disinfectants under laboratory conditions.

Methods

Two strains of BDD treponemes were applied to hoof knife blades under aerobic conditions. Swabs were taken at different time points (10 minutes, one hour, two hours, four hours and 18 hours) and again after 20‐second disinfection time with one of five disinfectants. Swabs were used directly for nested PCR to detect treponemes or inoculated for anaerobic growth, and subsequently examined using phase contrast microscopy and PCR.

Results

BDD treponeme DNA was detectable by nested PCR at all survival time points, and these organisms were culturable from hoof knives for two hours after exposure under aerobic conditions in the laboratory. Three of the five disinfectants—1 per cent volume per volume (v/v) FAM30®, 2 per cent weight per volume (w/v) Virkon® or 2 per cent (v/v) sodium hypochlorite—were effective at preventing visible growth of treponemes following 20‐seconds contact, and 1 per cent (v/v) FAM30® also prevented detection of treponemes by PCR.

Conclusion

Treponeme viability of two hours under aerobic conditions suggests BDD treponemes could be transmitted between cows on hoof knives. It is therefore important to apply a disinfection protocol during foot‐trimming; the authors have identified three common disinfectants that may be suitable.
The effects of split application of enhanced efficiency fertilizers on non-winter nitrous oxide emissions from winter wheat
Authors: Owens Jen , An Haibo , Beres Brian , Mohr Ramona , Hao Xiying
Published: November 2019

This study tested if non-winter cumulative nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions, emission factors, and yield-scaled N2O emissions were affected by split application of enhanced efficiency nitrogen fertilizers in a rain-fed winter wheat crop. Based on initial soil tests, fertilizers were applied at 84 kg N ha−1in year 1 and 72 kg N ha−1in year 2. Two trials were completed each year. Trial 1 applied (1) urea, (2) urea with nitrification inhibitor, (3) nitrification and urease inhibitors, and (4) polymer-coated urea as (1) 100% side-banded at planting, 30% side-banded at planting and (2) 70% surface-applied in late fall, or (3) 70% surface-applied in spring at Feekes growth stage 4 (GS4). Trial 2 applied (1) urea–ammonium nitrate (UAN), (2) UAN treated with nitrification inhibitor, (3) urease inhibitor, (4) a combination of both, (5) granular urea, and (6) polymer-coated urea, all applied 50% side-banded at planting and 50% surface-applied at GS4. Cumulative N2O emissions from fertilized soils ranged from 0.101 to 0.433 kg N ha−1. The emission factors for trial 1 were greater in year 1 than year 2 (P ≤ 0.05). There were no treatment differences in cumulative N2O emissions in trial 2. However, cumulative N2O emissions, emission factors, and yield-scaled N2O emissions from trial 1 were higher when fertilizer was split-applied in late fall compared with at GS4 (all P ≤ 0.05). This study demonstrates that under best management practices, it is better to apply the required rate in the form of conventional fertilizer at planting rather than split application.
Construction Method and Performance Analysis of Chaotic S-Box Based on Fireworks Algorithm
Authors: Wang Juan , Pan Bowen , Tang Cong , Ding Qun
Published: November 2019

How to choose a chaotic sequence to construct a chaotic S-box is a key factor to determine the performance of the S-box. In this paper, a construction method for chaotic S-box based on fireworks algorithm is proposed, in which the fireworks algorithm is used to search for the optimal solution in the solution space of the Lorenz chaotic system. The performances of S-box are tested through the nonlinearity, differential uniformity, strict avalanche criterion, output bits independence criterion and bijectivity, and compared with the existing classical S-boxes based on the Lorenz chaotic system. The results indicate that the S-box in this paper has more excellent cryptographic characteristics, which will provide a new idea for the efficient generation of chaotic S-box.
Spatiotemporal Patterns in a Delayed Reaction–Diffusion Mussel–Algae Model
Authors: Shen Zuolin , Wei Junjie
Published: November 2019

We study the spatiotemporal patterns of a delayed reaction–diffusion mussel–algae system subject to Neumann boundary conditions. This paper is a continuation of our previous studies on the mussel–algae model. We prove the global existence and positivity of solutions. By analyzing the distribution of eigenvalues, we obtain the stability conditions for the positive constant steady state, the existence of Hopf bifurcation and the Turing instability. We show the dynamic classification near the Turing–Hopf singularity in the dimensionless parameter space and observe a transiently spatially nonhomogeneous periodic solution in simulations. Both theoretical and numerical results reveal that the Turing–Hopf bifurcation can enrich the diversity of the spatial distribution of populations.
Downregulated Expression of hsa_circ_0005556 in Gastric Cancer and Its Clinical Significance
Authors: Yang Liangwei , Yu Yu , Yu Xiuchong , Zhou Jiaming , Zhang Zhiping , Ying Shibo , Guo Junming , Yan Zhilong
Published: November 2019

Background. Gastric cancer (GC) has a poor prognosis due to the lack of ideal tumor markers. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel type of noncoding RNA related to the occurrence of GC. Among our research, we investigated the role of hsa_circ_0005556 in GC. Materials and Methods. The expression of hsa_circ_0005556 of 100 paired GC tissues and adjacent normal tissues was detected using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was established to evaluate the diagnostic value of hsa_circ_0005556. The correlation between the expression of hsa_circ_0005556 and corresponding clinicopathological characteristic was explored. Results. hsa_circ_0005556 was significantly downregulated in GC tissues contrasted with adjacent normal tissues (n=100, p<0.001). The areas under the ROC curve (AUC) of hsa_circ_0005556 were up to 0.773, while 64% sensitivity and 82% specificity, respectively. Moreover, its expression levels were significantly associated with differentiation (p=0.001), TNM stage (p=0.013), and lymphatic metastasis (p=0.039). GC patients of high hsa_circ_0005556 levels had a longer overall survival (OS) than those of the low group (p=0.047). Conclusion. hsa_circ_0005556 is a potential biomarker for GC, which may guide judgment of the indication of endoscopic treatment for early gastric cancer (EGC).
Hyperbaric Normoxia Improved Glucose Metabolism and Decreased Inflammation in Obese Diabetic Rat
Authors: Fujita Naoto , Goto Natsuki , Nakamura Tomoya , Nino Wataru , Ono Taketoshi , Nishijo Hisao , Urakawa Susumu
Published: November 2019

Hyperbaric treatment improves hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia in type 2 diabetes associated with obesity. However, its mode of action is unknown. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the influences of regular hyperbaric treatment with normal air at 1.3 atmospheres absolute (ATA) on glucose tolerance in type 2 diabetes with obesity. The focus was directed on inflammatory cytokines in the adipose tissue and skeletal muscle. Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats were used as models of type 2 diabetes with obesity and Long-Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO) rats served as healthy controls. The rats were randomly assigned to untreated or hyperbaric treatment groups exposed to 1.3 ATA for 8 h d-1 and 5 d wk-1 for 16 wks. Glucose levels were significantly higher in the diabetic than in the healthy control rats. Nevertheless, glucose levels at 30 and 60 min after glucose administration were significantly lower in the diabetic rats treated with 1.3 ATA than in the untreated diabetic rats. Insulin levels at fasting and 120 min after glucose administration were significantly lower in the diabetic rats treated with 1.3 ATA than in the untreated diabetic rats. Hyperbaric treatment also increased interleukin-10 (IL-10) expression in the skeletal muscle and decreased tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) expression in adipose tissue. These results suggested that TNFα downregulation and IL-10 upregulation in diabetic rats subjected to hyperbaric treatment participate in the crosstalk between the adipose and skeletal muscle tissues and improve glucose intolerance.
PSO-LocBact: A Consensus Method for Optimizing Multiple Classifier Results for Predicting the Subcellular Localization of Bacterial Proteins
Authors: Lertampaiporn Supatcha , Nuannimnoi Sirapop , Vorapreeda Tayvich , Chokesajjawatee Nipa , Visessanguan Wonnop , Thammarongtham Chinae
Published: November 2019

Several computational approaches for predicting subcellular localization have been developed and proposed. These approaches provide diverse performance because of their different combinations of protein features, training datasets, training strategies, and computational machine learning algorithms. In some cases, these tools may yield inconsistent and conflicting prediction results. It is important to consider such conflicting or contradictory predictions from multiple prediction programs during protein annotation, especially in the case of a multiclass classification problem such as subcellular localization. Hence, to address this issue, this work proposes the use of the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to combine the prediction outputs from multiple different subcellular localization predictors with the aim of integrating diverse prediction models to enhance the final predictions. Herein, we present PSO-LocBact, a consensus classifier based on PSO that can be used to combine the strengths of several preexisting protein localization predictors specially designed for bacteria. Our experimental results indicate that the proposed method can resolve inconsistency problems in subcellular localization prediction for both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial proteins. The average accuracy achieved on each test dataset is over 98%, higher than that achieved with any individual predictor.
Central Plasticity of Cutaneous Afferents Is Associated with Nociceptive Hyperreflexia after Spinal Cord Injury in Rats
Authors: Lee Hyun Joon , Malone Patrick S. , Chung Jumi , White Jason M. , Wilson Natalee , Tidwell Jason , Tansey Keith E.
Published: November 2019

Electrical stimulations of dorsal cutaneous nerves (DCNs) at each lumbothoracic spinal level produce the bilateral cutaneus trunci muscle (CTM) reflex responses which consist of two temporal components: an early and late responses purportedly mediated by Aδ and C fibers, respectively. We have previously reported central projections of DCN A and C fibers and demonstrated that different projection patterns of those afferent types contributed to the somatotopic organization of CTM reflex responses. Unilateral hemisection spinal cord injury (SCI) was made at T10 spinal segments to investigate the plasticity of early and late CTM responses 6 weeks after injury. Both early and late responses were drastically increased in response to both ipsi- and contralateral DCN stimulations both above (T6 and T8) and below (T12 and L1) the levels of injury demonstrating that nociceptive hyperreflexia developed at 6 weeks following hemisection SCI. We also found that DCN A and C fibers centrally sprouted, expanded their projection areas, and increased synaptic terminations in both T7 and T13, which correlated with the size of hemisection injury. These data demonstrate that central sprouting of cutaneous afferents away from the site of injury is closely associated with enhanced responses of intraspinal signal processing potentially contributing to nociceptive hyperreflexia following SCI.
Effect of Carica papaya Extract toward Incised Wound Healing Process in Mice (Mus musculus) Clinically and Histologically
Authors: Hakim Rachmi Fanani , Fakhrurrazi  , Dinni
Published: November 2019

Wound healing entails a sequence of complex biological processes, which is a protective function of the body that focuses on a quick recovery. Reducing wound healing time is crucial in a wound as it lowers the chance of infection and decreases complications and costs. Papaya extract was obtained by a maceration method. It contains papain enzyme, flavonoid, saponin, and alkaloid, which act as an anti-inflammatory, astringent substance, vasodilator, antioxidant, analgesic, with antifungal, and antibacterial properties, and increase the collagen synthesis. This study aimed to assess the effect of Carica papaya extract application toward incised wound healing process in mice (Mus musculus) clinically and histologically. This experimental laboratory study was performed using 24 mice weighing between 30 and 40 grams and 12 and 14 weeks of age as experimental animals. Each group was incised along 5 mm at the labial gingiva under both of mandible anterior teeth with a depth reaching alveolar bone. Papaya extract was applied topically in the morning and evening for 14 days. The clinical result was obtained by assessing the length of wound closure measured every day for 14 days. Based on the statistic test result, it showed that the papaya extract has a significant effect (p≤0.05) toward the healing process of an incised oral wound in mice. Histologically at day 14, 75% concentration papaya extract showed perfect epithelial layer and fibrillation.