bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risks of ischaemic heart disease and stroke in meat eaters, fish eaters, and vegetarians over 18 years of follow-up: results from the prospective EPIC-Oxford study
Authors: Tong Tammy Y N , Appleby Paul N , Bradbury Kathryn E , Perez-Cornago Aurora , Travis Ruth C , Clarke Robert , Key Timothy J
Published: September 2019

Objective

To examine the associations of vegetarianism with risks of ischaemic heart disease and stroke.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

The EPIC-Oxford study, a cohort in the United Kingdom with a large proportion of non-meat eaters, recruited across the country between 1993 and 2001.

Participants

48 188 participants with no history of ischaemic heart disease, stroke, or angina (or cardiovascular disease) were classified into three distinct diet groups: meat eaters (participants who consumed meat, regardless of whether they consumed fish, dairy, or eggs; n=24 428), fish eaters (consumed fish but no meat; n=7506), and vegetarians including vegans (n=16 254), based on dietary information collected at baseline, and subsequently around 2010 (n=28 364).

Main outcome measures

Incident cases of ischaemic heart disease and stroke (including ischaemic and haemorrhagic types) identified through record linkage until 2016.

Results

Over 18.1 years of follow-up, 2820 cases of ischaemic heart disease and 1072 cases of total stroke (519 ischaemic stroke and 300 haemorrhagic stroke) were recorded. After adjusting for sociodemographic and lifestyle confounders, fish eaters and vegetarians had 13% (hazard ratio 0.87, 95% confidence interval 0.77 to 0.99) and 22% (0.78, 0.70 to 0.87) lower rates of ischaemic heart disease than meat eaters, respectively (P<0.001 for heterogeneity). This difference was equivalent to 10 fewer cases of ischaemic heart disease (95% confidence interval 6.7 to 13.1 fewer) in vegetarians than in meat eaters per 1000 population over 10 years. The associations for ischaemic heart disease were partly attenuated after adjustment for self reported high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and body mass index (hazard ratio 0.90, 95% confidence interval 0.81 to 1.00 in vegetarians with all adjustments). By contrast, vegetarians had 20% higher rates of total stroke (hazard ratio 1.20, 95% confidence interval 1.02 to 1.40) than meat eaters, equivalent to three more cases of total stroke (95% confidence interval 0.8 to 5.4 more) per 1000 population over 10 years, mostly due to a higher rate of haemorrhagic stroke. The associations for stroke did not attenuate after further adjustment of disease risk factors.

Conclusions

In this prospective cohort in the UK, fish eaters and vegetarians had lower rates of ischaemic heart disease than meat eaters, although vegetarians had higher rates of haemorrhagic and total stroke.
Prepubertal neutering in cats and dogs
Authors: Yates David , Leedham Rosa
Published: September 2019

Background:Neutering cats and dogs is the most common elective procedure undertaken in small animal practice. Neutering is often at the request of an owner but may be carried out on unowned animals as a policy decision in a charity practice, or as a life‐saving intervention in cases such as testicular torsion or pyometra. Considerations influencing the decision to neuter include owner, animal and veterinary factors.

Aim of the article:Here, we consider the timing of the procedure, the risks and benefits and technicalities of performing prepubertal gonadectomy in the dog and cat. Traditionally, cats and dogs are neutered from six months old; in contrast, prepubertal neutering is defined as ovariectomy/ovariohysterectomy or castration at six to 16 weeks of age in both species. It should be noted that large dog breeds may not reach puberty for many months after this period.
Creating mentally healthy workplaces
Authors: Read Claire
Published: September 2019

The statistics are clear – those working in veterinary professions are more prone to mental ill health, at huge personal and financial cost. This article identifies the steps which can be taken to improve workplaces so that such illness is less likely.
Neuromodulatory effects of pudendal nerve stimulation on bladder hypersensitivity are present in opioid-pretreated rats
Authors: Ness Timothy John , McNaught Jamie , Clodfelder-Miller Buffie , Nelson Dwight E , Su Xin
Published: September 2019

Background and objectives

Bilateral electrical pudendal nerve stimulation (bPNS) reduces bladder hypersensitivity in rat models and anecdotally reduces pain in humans with pelvic pain of urologic origin. Concomitant opioids are known to alter responses to neuromodulation in some systems. So prior to the development of a clinical trial for purposes of regulatory approval, the preclinical interaction between opioids and stimulation effectiveness was examined.

Methods

Bladder hypersensitivity was produced by neonatal bladder inflammation in rat pups coupled with a second inflammatory insult as an adult. Morphine was administered acutely (1–4 mg/kg intraperitoneal) or chronically (5 mg/kg subcutaneously daily for 2 weeks prior to the terminal experiment). bPNS consisted of bilateral biphasic electrical stimulation of the mixed motor/sensory component of the pudendal nerves. Visceromotor responses (VMR; abdominal muscle contractile responses to urinary bladder distension (UBD)) were used as nociceptive endpoints.

Results

Morphine produced a dose-dependent inhibition of VMRs to UBD that was naloxone reversible. bPNS resulted in statistically significant inhibition of VMRs to UBD in hypersensitive rats that had received acute or chronic subcutaneous morphine injections.

Conclusions

This study suggests that inhibitory effects of bPNS can still be evoked in subjects who are receiving opioid therapy, thus giving guidance to potential clinical trials seeking regulatory approval for the treatment of chronic bladder pain.
Tree hierarchical directed evacuation network model based on artificial fish swarm algorithm
Authors: Zong Xinlu , Wang Chunzhi , Du Jiayuan , Jiang Yingli
Published: September 2019

With the increase of emergencies in large public places, emergency evacuation research has become an important and urgent issue. This paper first proposes a tree hierarchical evacuation network. According to the hierarchical path selection strategy, the evacuation routes are obtained and sorted by the length of route. This hierarchical path selection strategy is more realistic than using the straight line distance. An evacuation model based on hierarchical directed evacuation network is presented in this paper, and a hierarchical directed artificial fish swarm algorithm is proposed to solve the evacuation problem. The model simulates the movements of pedestrians by means of preying, swarming, following and waiting behaviors of artificial fish swarm algorithm. During the evacuation process, the effects of congestion, retrograde and blocking time on evacuation speed and route selection are considered. The simulation results show that the proposed model and algorithm can effectively improve the evacuation efficiency in a stadium, and provide scientific and reasonable path guidance.
Review of the Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of the Genus Veronica
Authors: Xue Haibing , Chen Kai-Xian , Zhang Liu-Qiang , Li Yi-Ming
Published: September 2019

Veronica is the largest genus in the flowering plant family Plantaginaceae and comprises approximately 500 species. The genus was formerly placed in the Scrophulariaceae family, some species of which have been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of influenza, respiratory diseases, hemoptysis, laryngopharyngitis, cough, hernia, cancer, edema, and wounds. This review comprehensively summarizes the current information on the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of the genus Veronica on the basis of articles published from 1970 to 2018. More than 260 compounds have been isolated, and chemotaxonomic investigations of Veronica have revealed that iridoid glucosides — including aucubin, catalpol, and 6-[Formula: see text]-catalpol derivatives — are characteristic of this genus. Modern pharmacological studies and clinical practice have demonstrated that extracts or monomeric compounds from Veronica have several pharmacological actions, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, anticancer, antibacterial, anti-angiogenic, antineurodegenerative, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects both in vivo and in vitro.
Chemo-Preventive Potential of Falcarindiol-Enriched Fraction from Oplopanax elatus on Colorectal Cancer Interfered by Human Gut Microbiota
Authors: Wang Jin , Shao Li , Rao Tai , Zhang Wei , Huang Wei-Hua
Published: September 2019

Oplopanax elatus (Nakai) Nakai is an oriental herb, the polyyne-enriched fraction of which (PEFO) showed anticolorectal cancer (anti-CRC) effects. Other concomitant components, which are inevitably bio-transformed by gut microbiota after oral administration, might be interfere with the pharmacodynamics of polyynes. However, the influence of human gut microbiota on molecules from O. elatus possessing anticancer activity are yet unknown. In this study, the compounds in PEFO and PEFO incubated with human gut microbiota were analyzed and tentatively identified by HPLC-DAD-QTOF-MS. Two main polyynes ((3[Formula: see text]8[Formula: see text]-falcarindiol and oplopandiol) were not significantly decomposed, but some new unknown molecules were discovered during incubation. However, the antiproliferative effects of PEFO incubated with human gut microbiota for 72 h (PEFO I) were much lower than that of PEFO on HCT-116, SW-480, and HT-29 cells. Furthermore, PEFO possessed better anti-CRC activity in vivo, and significantly induced apoptosis of the CRC cells, which was associated with activation of caspase-3 according to the Western-blot results ([Formula: see text]). These results suggest anticolorectal cancer activity of polyynes might be antagonized by some bio-converted metabolites after incubation with human gut microbiota. Therefore, it might be better for CRC prevention if the polyynes could be orally administrated as purified compounds.
Quantum state transfer on unsymmetrical graphs via discrete-time quantum walk
Authors: Cao Wei-Feng , Yang Yu-Guang , Li Dan , Dong Jing-Ru , Zhou Yi-Hua , Shi Wei-Min
Published: September 2019

Perfect state transfer can be achieved between two marked vertices of graphs like a star graph, a complete graph with self-loops and a complete bipartite graph, and two-dimensional Lattice by means of discrete-time quantum walk. In this paper, we investigate the quality of quantum state transfer between two marked vertices of an unsymmetrical graph like the butterfly network. Our numerical results support the conjecture that the fidelity of state transfer depends on the quantum state to be transferred dynamically. The butterfly network is a typical example studied in networking coding. Therefore, these results can provide a clue to the construction of quantum network coding schemes.
Effects of the Kaluza–Klein theory on a Klein–Gordon particle with position-dependent mass
Authors: Leite E. V. B. , Vitória R. L. L. , Belich H.
Published: September 2019

Through the Kaluza–Klein theory, we investigate the quantum dynamics of a Klein–Gordon particle under the Aharonov–Bohm effect for bound states, where it is subject to the linear and Coulomb-type central potentials inserted in the Klein–Gordon equation by modification of the mass term. Then, we determine analytically solutions of bound states and the energy profile of the scalar particle in this background.
Constructing the CKVs of Bianchi III and V spacetimes
Authors: Mitsopoulos Antonios , Tsamparlis Michael , Paliathanasis Andronikos
Published: September 2019

We determine the conformal algebra of Bianchi III and Bianchi V spacetimes or, equivalently, we determine all Bianchi III and Bianchi V spacetimes which admit a proper conformal Killing vector (CKV). The algorithm that we use has been developed in [M. Tsamparlis et al.Class. Quantum. Grav. 15, 2909 (1998)] and concerns the computation of the CKVs of decomposable spacetimes. The main point of this method is that a decomposable space admits a CKV if the reduced space admits a gradient homothetic vector, the latter being possible only if the reduced space is flat or a space of constant curvature. We apply this method in a stepwise manner starting from the two-dimensional spacetime which admits an infinite number of CKVs and we construct step by step the Bianchi III and V spacetimes by assuming that CKVs survive as we increase the dimension of the space. We find that there is only one Bianchi III and one Bianchi V spacetime which admit at maximum one proper CKV. In each case, we determine the CKV and the corresponding conformal factor. As a first application in these two spacetimes, we study the kinematics of the comoving observers and the dynamics of the corresponding cosmological fluid. As a second application, we determine in these spacetimes generators of the Lie symmetries of the wave equation.
Coherent energy transfer of a pair of two-level atoms
Authors: Bai Xiaogang , Zhang Haiming
Published: September 2019

The coherent energy transfer efficiency of a pair of two-level atoms is studied theoretically and its mathematical expression has been deduced. The problem of atoms coherent energy transfer theory is treated by quantum perturbation theory and equivalent method replacing atomic dipole field with light field of the same frequency. The detuning between the donor atom transition frequency and the acceptor atom transition frequency has been studied in the theory. With the increase of the detuning of the two-atomic transition frequency, the energy transfer efficiency decays rapidly. In the case of two-atomic transition frequency resonance, the coherent resonance energy transfer efficiency is directly proportional to the square of the sine of the minus three power of the distance between two atoms and the energy transfer efficiency is periodically decaying over time. The coherent resonance energy transfer efficiency is inversely proportional to the six power of the distance between the two atoms in the first-order approximation.
Chaos as a symmetry-breaking phenomenon
Authors: Ovchinnikov Igor V. , Di Ventra Massimiliano
Published: September 2019

Chaos is an ubiquitous and fundamental phenomenon with a wide range of features pointing to a similar phenomenology. Although apparently distinct, it is natural to ask if all these features emerge from a unifying principle. Recently, it was realized that all continuous-time stochastic dynamical systems (DSs) — the most relevant in physics because natural DSs are always subject to noise and time is continuous — possess a topological supersymmetry (TS). It was then suggested that its spontaneous breakdown could be interpreted as the stochastic generalization of deterministic chaos. This conclusion stems from the fact that such phenomenon encompasses features that are traditionally associated with chaotic dynamics such as non-integrability, positive topological entropy, sensitivity to initial conditions and the Poincaré–Bendixson theorem. Here, we strengthen and complete this picture by showing that the remaining hallmarks of deterministic chaos — topological transitivity/mixing and dense periodic orbits — while being consistent with the TS breaking, do not actually admit a stochastic generalization. This is a major limitation, since all physical systems are always noisy to some extent. We, therefore, conclude that spontaneous TS breaking can be considered as the most general definition of continuous-time dynamical chaos. Contrary to the common perception and semantics of the word “chaos,” this phenomenon should then be truly interpreted as the low-symmetry, or ordered phase of the DSs that manifest it. We also argue that the concept of chaos in low-dimensional, discrete-time DSs that do not obey the Poincaré–Bendixson theorem, is related to the explicit TS breaking.
PRICING DERIVATIVES IN HERMITE MARKETS
Authors: STOYANOV STOYAN V. , RACHEV SVETLOZAR T. , MITTNIK STEFAN , FABOZZI FRANK J.
Published: September 2019

We present a new framework for Hermite fractional financial markets, generalizing the fractional Brownian motion (FBM) and fractional Rosenblatt markets. Considering pure and mixed Hermite markets, we introduce a strategy-specific arbitrage tax on the rate of transaction volume acceleration of the hedging portfolio as the prices of risky assets change, allowing us to transform Hermite markets with arbitrage opportunities to markets with no arbitrage opportunities within the class of Markov trading strategies. We derive PDEs for the price of such strategies in the presence of an arbitrage tax in pure Hermite, mixed Hermite, and Black–Scholes–Merton diffusion markets.
Standing and Stepping Control with Switching Rules for Bipedal Robots Based on Angular Momentum Around Ankle
Authors: Uemura Mitsunori , Hirai Hiroaki
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we propose standing and stepping control with switching rules based on angular momentum around the ankle for planar bipedal robots. A theoretical analysis under some approximation and mass distribution conditions shows that the proposed standing control maximizes stable regions. We can then classify the state of robots into the following three categories: (1) stabilizable via ankle torque; (2) unstabilizable only via ankle torque and stabilizable via ankle torque and trunk posture control; and (3) unstabilizable via ankle torque and trunk posture control. This criterion enables switching rules to appropriately switch robot control to balance control via ankle torque, balance control via ankle torque and trunk posture control, or stepping control. The proposed method is applicable to robots without feet. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method appropriately switches control according to the amplitudes of disturbances and maintains the balance of robots with and without feet.
A Nonlinear H-infinity Control Approach for Autonomous Truck and Trailer Systems
Authors: Rigatos Gerasimos , Siano Pierluigi , Wira Patrice , Busawon Krishna , Binns Richard
Published: September 2019

A nonlinear optimal control method is developed for autonomous truck and trailer systems. Actually, two cases are distinguished: (a) a truck and trailer system that is steered by the front wheels of its truck, (b) an autonomous fire-truck robot that is steered by both the front wheels of its truck and by the rear wheels of its trailer. The kinematic model of the autonomous vehicles undergoes linearization through Taylor series expansion. The linearization is computed at a temporary operating point that is defined at each time instant by the present value of the state vector and the last value of the control inputs vector. The linearization is based on the computation of Jacobian matrices. The modeling error due to approximate linearization is considered to be a perturbation that is compensated by the robustness of the control scheme. For the approximately linearized model of the autonomous vehicles an H-infinity feedback controller is designed. This requires the solution of an algebraic Riccati equation at each iteration of the control algorithm. The stability of the control loop is confirmed through Lyapunov analysis. It is shown that the control loop exhibits the H-infinity tracking performance which implies elevated robustness against modeling errors and external disturbances. Moreover, under moderate conditions the global asymptotic stability of the control loop is proven. Finally, to implement state estimation-based control for the autonomous vehicles, through the processing of a small number of sensor measurements, the H-infinity Kalman Filter is proposed.
Facial Muscular Human–Computer Interface at a Motor Unit Level
Authors: Pinheiro Júnior Carlos Galvão , Vieira Marcus Fraga , Amorim César Ferreira , Bourhis Guy , Andrade Adriano O.
Published: September 2019

Assistive technology allows motor-impaired people to overcome limitations. Several myoelectric interfaces have been developed, however, there is no reported study employing information at a motor unit (MU) level for controlling purposes. Thus, we developed a facial myoelectric interface operating at the level of MU for controlling a computer screen cursor. Data were collected from 11 able-bodied and 1 tetraplegic subjects. Different from traditional approaches, there was no significant difference ([Formula: see text]) in learning with respect to the level of difficulty, occurring evenly and faster. Information at MU level opens new possibilities for the development of fine control myoelectric interfaces.
Influence of fracture nucleation and propagation rates on fracture geometry: insights from geomechanical modelling
Authors: Welch Michael J. , Luthje Mikael , Glad Aslaug C.
Published: September 2019

We combine a power-law microfracture size distribution function with an expression for fracture propagation rate derived from subcritical fracture propagation theory and linear elastic fracture mechanics, to derive a geomechanically based deterministic model for the growth of a network of layer-bound fractures. This model also simulates fracture termination due to intersection with perpendicular fractures or stress-shadow interaction. We use this model to examine key controls on the emergent geometry of the fracture network.

First, we examine the effect of fracture propagation rates. We show that at subcritical fracture propagation rates, the fracture nucleation rate increases with time; this generates a very dense network of very small fractures, similar to the deformation bands generated by compaction in unconsolidated sediments. By contrast, at critical propagation rates, the fracture nucleation rate decreases with time; this generates fewer but much larger fractures, similar to the brittle open fractures generated by tectonic deformation in lithified sediments. We then examine the controls on the rate of growth of the fracture network. A fracture set will start to grow when the stress acting on it reaches a threshold value, and it will continue to grow until all the fractures have stopped propagating and no new fractures can nucleate. The relative timing and rate of growth of the different fracture sets will control the anisotropy of the resulting fracture network: if the sets start to grow at the same time and rate, the result is a fully isotropic fracture network; if the primary fracture set stops growing before the secondary set starts growing, the result is a fully anisotropic fracture network; and if there is some overlap but the secondary set grows more slowly than the primary set, the result is a partially anisotropic fracture network. Although the applied horizontal strain rates are the key control on the relative growth rates of the two fracture sets, we show that the vertical effective stress, the initial horizontal stress, the elastic properties of the rock and the inelastic deformation processes, such as creep, grain sliding and pressure solution, all exert a control on the fracture growth rates, and that more isotropic fracture networks will tend to develop if the vertical effective stress is low or if the fractures are critically stressed prior to the onset of deformation.

Thematic collection:
This article is part of the Naturally Fractured Reservoirs collection available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/naturally-fractured-reservoirs
Toward Accounting for Hidden Common Causes When Inferring Cause and Effect from Observational Data
Authors: Heckerman David
Published: September 2019

Hidden common causes make it difficult to infer causal relationships from observational data. Here, we begin an investigation into a new method to account for a hidden common cause that
infers
its presence from the data. As with other approaches that can account for common causes, this approach is successful only in some cases. We describe such a case taken from the field of genomics, wherein one tries to identify which genomic markers causally influence a trait of interest.
Skeletal myofiber VEGF deficiency leads to mitochondrial, structural, and contractile alterations in mouse diaphragm
Authors: Cannon Daniel T. , Rodewohl Lukas , Adams Volker , Breen Ellen C. , Bowen T. Scott
Published: September 2019

Diaphragm dysfunction accompanies cardiopulmonary disease and impaired oxygen delivery. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) regulates oxygen delivery through angiogenesis, capillary maintenance, and contraction-induced perfusion. We hypothesized that myofiber-specific VEGF deficiency contributes to diaphragm weakness and fatigability. Diaphragm protein expression, capillarity and fiber morphology, mitochondrial respiration and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) generation, and contractile function were compared between adult mice with conditional gene ablation of skeletal myofiber VEGF (SkmVEGF−/−; n = 12) and littermate controls ( n = 13). Diaphragm VEGF protein was ~50% lower in SkmVEGF−/−than littermate controls (1.45 ± 0.65 vs. 3.04 ± 1.41 pg/total protein; P = 0.001). This was accompanied by an ~15% impairment in maximal isometric specific force ( F[1,23] = 15.01, P = 0.001) and a trend for improved fatigue resistance ( P = 0.053). Mean fiber cross-sectional area and type I fiber cross-sectional area were lower in SkmVEGF−/−by ~40% and ~25% ( P < 0.05). Capillary-to-fiber ratio was also lower in SkmVEGF−/−by ~40% ( P < 0.05), and thus capillary density was not different. Sarcomeric actin expression was ~30% lower in SkmVEGF−/−( P < 0.05), whereas myosin heavy chain and MAFbx were similar (measured via immunoblot). Mitochondrial respiration, citrate synthase activity, PGC-1α, and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α were not different in SkmVEGF−/−( P > 0.05). However, mitochondrial-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) flux was lower in SkmVEGF−/−( P = 0.0003). In conclusion, myofiber-specific VEGF gene deletion resulted in a lower capillary-to-fiber ratio, type I fiber atrophy, actin loss, and contractile dysfunction in the diaphragm. In contrast, mitochondrial respiratory function was preserved alongside lower ROS generation, which may play a compensatory role to preserve fatigue resistance in the diaphragm.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Diaphragm weakness is a hallmark of diseases in which oxygen delivery is compromised. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) modulates muscle perfusion; however, it remains unclear whether VEGF deficiency contributes to the onset of diaphragm dysfunction. Conditional skeletal myofiber VEGF gene ablation impaired diaphragm contractile function and resulted in type I fiber atrophy, a lower number of capillaries per fiber, and contractile protein content. Mitochondrial function was similar and reactive oxygen species flux was lower. Diaphragm VEGF deficiency may contribute to the onset of respiratory muscle weakness.
Sensitive and Simultaneous Determination of Hydroquinone and Catechol in Water Using an Anodized Glassy Carbon Electrode with Polymerized 2-(Phenylazo) Chromotropic Acid
Authors: Zhang Miao , Ge Chuang-ye , Jin Ya-feng , Hu Liang-bin , Mo Hai-zhen , Li Xiao-bo , Zhang Hao
Published: September 2019

Hydroquinone (HQ) and catechol (CT) are considered as environmental pollutants with high toxicity. We have developed a simple electrochemical sensor using an anodized glassy carbon electrode modified with a stable 2-(phenylazo) chromotropic acid- (CH-) conducting polymer (PCH/AGCE). The PCH/AGCE sensor showed good electrocatalytic activity and reversibility towards the redox of HQ and CT in phosphate buffer solution (PBS, pH 7.0). The cyclic voltammetry (CV) in mixed solution of HQ and CT showed that the oxidation peaks of them became well resolved with a peak separation of 0.1 V. The detection limits of HQ and CT were 0.044 and 0.066 μM, respectively, in a wide linear response range of 1–300 μM for both. Moreover, the sensor displayed an excellent selectivity in the presence of common interferences. This study provided a simple, sensitive, and high recovery method for simultaneous and quantitative determination of HQ and CT in aqueous medium.
Intravenous Contrast Agent in Abdominal CT: Is It Really Needed to Identify the Cause of Bowel Obstruction? Proof of Concept
Authors: Vernuccio Federica , Picone Dario , Scerrino Gregorio , Midiri Massimo , Lo Re Giuseppe , Lagalla Roberto , Salvaggio Giuseppe
Published: September 2019

Background. To compare sensitivity of unenhanced computed tomography (CT) and contrast-enhanced CT for the identification of the etiology of bowel obstruction.Materials and Methods. We retrospectively evaluated abdominal CT scans of patients operated for bowel obstruction from March 2013 to October 2017. Two radiologists evaluated CT scans before and after contrast agent in two reading sessions. Then, we calculated sensitivity of CT in the diagnosis of bowel obstruction and determined in which cases the etiology of bowel obstruction was detected on both unenhanced and enhanced CT or on enhanced CT only. The reference standard was defined as the final diagnosis obtained after surgery.Results. Eighteen patients (mean age72±15years, age range 37-88 years) were included in the study. Sensitivity of unenhanced CT and enhanced CT was not significantly different in either small bowel obstruction (64%, 7/11 patients vs. 73%, 8/11 patients;P=0.6547) or large bowel obstruction (71%, 5/7 patients vs. 100%, 7/7 patients;P=0.1410). Adhesions were identified on unenhanced CT as the etiology of small bowel obstruction in 80% (4/5) of patients. Tumors were identified on unenhanced CT as the etiology of large bowel obstruction in 67% (4/6) of patients.Conclusion. In the diagnosis of small bowel obstruction due to adhesions with normal bowel wall thickening and when a neoplasm is identified as the etiology of large bowel obstruction on unenhanced CT, an intravenous contrast agent may be avoided for the identification of the etiology. In remaining cases, contrast agent is still recommended.
Luminescence Nanothermometry Based on Pr3+ : LaF3 Single Core and Pr3+ : LaF3/LaF3 Core/Shell Nanoparticles
Authors: Pudovkin M. S. , Koryakovtseva D. A. , Lukinova E. V. , Korableva S. L. , Khusnutdinova R. Sh. , Kiiamov A. G. , Nizamutdinov A. S. , Semashko V. V.
Published: September 2019

Core Pr3+ : LaF3 (CPr = 1%) plate-like nanoparticles (nanoplates), core/shell Pr3+ : LaF3 (CPr = 1%)/LaF3 nanoplates, core Pr3+ : LaF3 (CPr = 1%) sphere-like nanoparticles (nanospheres), and core/shell Pr3+ : LaF3 (CPr = 1%)/LaF3 nanospheres were synthesized via the coprecipitation method of synthesis. The nanoparticles (NPs) were characterized by means of transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and optical spectroscopy. The formation of the shell was proved by detecting the increase in physical sizes, sizes of coherent scattering regions, and luminescence lifetimes of core/shell NPs comparing with single core NPs. The average physical sizes of core nanoplates, core/shell nanoplates, core nanospheres, and core/shell nanospheres were 62.2 ± 0.9, 74.7 ± 1.2, 13.8 ± 0.9 and 22.0 ± 1.2 nm, respectively. The formation of the NP shell led to increasing of effective luminescence lifetime τeff of the 3P0 state of Pr3+ ions for the core nanoplates, core/shell nanoplates, core nanospheres, and core/shell nanospheres the values of τeff were 2.3, 3.6, 3.2, and 4.7 μsec, respectively (at 300 K). The values of absolute sensitivity Sa for fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) thermometry was 0.01 K−1 at 300 K for all the samples. The FIR sensitivity can be attributed to the fact that 3P1 and 3P0 states share their electronic populations according to the Boltzmann process. The values of Sa for lifetime thermometry for core nanoplates, core/shell nanoplates, core nanospheres, and core/shell nanospheres were (36.4 ± 3.1) · 10−4, (70.7 ± 5.9) · 10−4, (40.7 ± 2.6) · 10−4, and (68.8 ± 2.4) · 10−4 K−1, respectively.
Atraumatic Left Distal Radial Artery Aneurysm
Authors: Maalouly Joseph , Aouad Dany , Saidy Elias , Tawk Antonios , Baaklini Georges , Cortbawi Chawki
Published: September 2019

Distal radial artery aneurysms are an uncommon pathological entity in the field of surgery. Moreover, distal radial artery aneurysms of idiopathic etiology are even rarer. Herein, we present a rare case of idiopathic/atraumatic left radial artery aneurysm. A 73-year-old female patient presented with a chief complaint of a pulsatile mass located on her left wrist. Radiological imaging showed the presence of a distal radial artery aneurysm which was successfully surgically excised with subsequent ligation of the radial artery. Some of the etiologies and operative management of distal radial artery aneurysm in the anatomical snuffbox to what is in accordance with the literature are discussed. Distal radial artery aneurysms are rare. Hence, their misdiagnosis may lead to wrongful management and increase in morbidity. The appropriate management of distal radial aneurysm is almost always surgical.
Community-Acquired Pneumonia due to Streptococcus pneumoniae: When to Consider Coinfection with Active Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: Garcia Ruslan
Published: September 2019

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is an important cause of hospitalizations in adults. In the United States, Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most frequently identified bacterial pathogen responsible for CAP. Other etiologic pathogens of CAP vary based on the geographic region. Mycobacterium tuberculosis is an uncommon cause of CAP in the United States, while it is a principal cause in many African and Asian countries. Coinfection with Streptococcus pneumoniae and Mycobacterium tuberculosis is rare and has only been reported in the setting of underlying HIV infection in areas of high tuberculosis prevalence. Here, we report a case of CAP in the absence of HIV, where Streptococcus pneumoniae was identified on admission and delay in diagnosis of concomitant active pulmonary tuberculosis led to inappropriate isolation. In addition to a high index of suspicion, epidemiologic and radiographic findings can be helpful to recognize tuberculosis as a cause of CAP even when other pathogens have already been identified.
A 10-Year Follow-Up of Excessive Daytime Sleepiness in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Höglund Arja , Hagell Peter , Broman Jan-Erik , Pålhagen Sven , Sorjonen Kimmo , Fredrikson Sten
Published: September 2019

Introduction. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) over time and in relation to other PD symptoms among people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Methods. Thirty participants younger than 65 years with PD were randomly selected. At inclusion, mean (SD) disease duration was 6.2 (4.8) years and median (min-max) severity of PD was classified as stage II (stages I–III) according to Hoehn and Yahr. Participants were followed annually for 10 years with clinical assessments of their PD status, medications, comorbidities, and a standardized interview about their sleep habits and occurrence of daytime sleepiness. EDS was assessed by the self-reported Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Seventeen participants completed the 10-year longitudinal follow-up. Results. Fifteen of 30 persons were classified to suffer from EDS (ESS > 10) at baseline. At the group level, EDS remained stable over 10 years and did not deteriorate in parallel with worsening of motor symptoms. Furthermore, EDS was associated with sleep quality, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and axial/postural/gait impairments. Conclusions. EDS did not worsen over 10 years, although other PD aspects did. EDS in PD seems to be a complex nonmotor symptom that is unrelated to deterioration of motor symptoms in PD.
Resveratrol Improves Boar Sperm Quality via 5′AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Activation during Cryopreservation
Authors: Zhu Zhendong , Li Rongnan , Fan Xiaoteng , Lv Yinghua , Zheng Yi , Hoque S. A. Masudul , Wu De , Zeng Wenxian
Published: September 2019

Mammalian sperm is highly susceptible to the reactive oxygen species (ROS) stress caused by biochemical and physical modifications during the cryopreservation process. 5′AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is involved in regulating both cell metabolism and cellular redox status. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the resveratrol protects boar sperm against ROS stress via activation of AMPK during cryopreservation. Boar sperm was diluted with the freezing medium supplemented with resveratrol at different concentrations (0, 25, 50, 75, 100, and 125 μM). It was observed that the addition of 50 μM resveratrol significantly improved the postthaw sperm progressive motility, membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, mitochondrial activity, glutathione (GSH) level, activities of enzymatic antioxidants (glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase), and the phosphorylation of AMPK. Meanwhile, the lipid peroxidation, ROS levels, and apoptosis of postthaw sperm were reduced in the presence of 50 μM resveratrol. Furthermore, when fresh boar sperm was incubated with the medium in the presence of 50 μM resveratrol and 30 μM Compound C (an AMPK inhibitor), the effects of the resveratrol were partly counteracted by the Compound C. These observations suggest that the resveratrol protects boar sperm via promoting AMPK phosphorylation. In conclusion, the addition of resveratrol to the freezing extenders protects boar sperm against ROS damage via promoting AMPK phosphorylation for decreasing the ROS production and improving the antioxidative defense system of postthaw sperm. These findings provide novel insights into understanding the mechanisms of resveratrol on how to protect boar sperm quality contrary to the ROS production during cryopreservation.
Redox Balance Correlates with Nutritional Status among Patients with End-Stage Renal Disease Treated with Maintenance Hemodialysis
Authors: Maraj Małgorzata , Kuśnierz-Cabala Beata , Dumnicka Paulina , Gawlik Katarzyna , Pawlica-Gosiewska Dorota , Gala-Błądzińska Agnieszka , Ząbek-Adamska Anna , Ceranowicz Piotr , Kuźniewski Marek
Published: September 2019

Over 50% of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients die of cardiovascular disease. ESRD patients treated with maintenance hemodialysis are repeatedly exposed to oxidative stress. The aim of the study was to find the relationship between lifestyle factors, nutritional status, calcium-phosphate metabolism, and selected redox parameters such as glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), uric acid (UA), and total antioxidant capacity expressed as ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). The study included 97 ESRD hemodialysis patients and 42 controls with no renal disease. Patients were asked to complete a questionnaire which gathered information on their physical activity, hours of sleep, smoking, and frequency of fruit and vegetable intake; the blood samples were then drawn before the midweek dialysis session. The ESRD patients had lower levels of GR, GPx, and SOD activity, a lower level of FRAP, and a higher UA concentration than the control group. The FRAP value decreased with age (ρ=−0.32, p=0.001); smokers had a significantly lower SOD activity in comparison to nonsmokers (p=0.03). In the ESRD patients, FRAP and UA correlated with both albumin (ρ=0.26, p=0.011; ρ=0.41, p=0.006, respectively) and prealbumin (ρ=0.34, p≤0.001; ρ=0.28, p=0.006, respectively), whereas UA, GR, GPx, and SOD correlated with calcium, UA, GR, and GPx with phosphate level. Based on the findings, there are weak associations between nutritional status and selected redox parameters in hemodialyzed patients. Further studies are needed to establish if diet modifications and adequate nutritional status can positively impact the antioxidant capacity in this group of patients.
Single-Agent Thalidomide for Treatment of Malignant Paraganglioma of the Organ of Zuckerkandl
Authors: Shindorf Mackenzie L. , Chaudhuri Prabir K.
Published: September 2019

The standard of care for benign pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas is surgical resection; however, there is no definitive curative or standard therapy for the treatment of malignant pheochromocytomas or paragangliomas. Current therapeutic options include surgical resection, chemotherapy (CVD therapy), MIBG-radiotherapy, somatostatin analogues, and combination targeted therapies such as temozolomide and thalidomide. Although some patients demonstrate short-lived responses to these various therapies, there has been no statistically significant survival benefit with any of the current regimens and therefore the aim is palliation and symptom control. Here, we present a 38-year-old man found to have an unresectable metastatic paraganglioma located in the Organ of Zuckerkandl who has been treated with single-agent thalidomide for over 15 years with minimal growth and stabilization of metastatic lesions. The management of our patient with single-agent therapy for this extended period of time challenges the efficacy and role of chemotherapy and other accepted therapies for malignant pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma.
Antidiabetic Effect of Fenugreek Seed Powder Solution (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) on Hyperlipidemia in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Geberemeskel Genet Alem , Debebe Yared Godefa , Nguse Nigisty Abraha
Published: September 2019

Background. Many drugs are commercially available for use in the management of diabetes. However, their side effects and high costs underscore the need for herbal alternative drugs. Trigonella foenum-graecum is one of the medicinal plants which are important in the management of diabetes mellitus. This study investigated the effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum seed powder solution on the lipid profile of newly diagnosed type II diabetic patients. Methods. A total of N=114 newly diagnosed type II diabetic patients without any significant diabetes complication were selected. They were grouped into two groups: the treatment group (n=57) consumed 25 g Trigonella foenum-graecum seed powder solution orally twice a day for one month and the second group is the control (n=57) which receives metformin. Blood sample was collected from each participant by a medical technologist/technician before and after the study. Lipid profile was analyzed by using Mindray BS 200E fully automated clinical chemistry analyzer. Result. By the end of the intervention period, the treatment group showed significantly lower total cholesterol level by 13.6% as compared with the baseline level (219.1±35.51 vs. 189.29±29.06, P<0.001) and the control group (189.29±29.06 vs. 208.2±40.2, P<0.001); triglyceride level also reduced by 23.53% compared with the baseline level (256.1±15.4 vs. 195.8±82.95, P<0.001) and compared with the control group (195.8±82.95 vs. 244.1±96.9, P<0.05); and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level also reduced by 23.4% as compared to the baseline level (137.9±26.9 vs. 105.6±24.2, P<0.001) and the control group (between groups) (105.6±24.2 vs. 144.1±23.3, P<0.001), but the treatment group showed significantly increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level by 21.7% as compared to the baseline level, within group (37.8±1.51 vs. 48.3±11.9, P<0.001), and the control group, between groups (48.3±11.9 vs. 36.01±9.5, P<0.001). However, lipid profile levels in the control group were not significantly changed. Conclusion. The present study showed that the administration of Trigonella foenum-graecum seed powder solution had pronounced effects in improving lipid metabolism in type II diabetic patients with no adverse effects. Therefore, Trigonella foenum-graecum seed may provide new alternatives for the clinical management of type II diabetes.
Numerical Simulation Virtual Test of Torsion Shear for Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Xie Jun , Yang Yougang
Published: September 2019

In order to analyze the torsional shear process of asphalt mixtures in a microscopic view, the numerical simulation of a torsional shear test of an asphalt mixture was carried out by discrete element method. Based on the defects of existing algorithms, the method of random reconstruction of the existing 3D model of the asphalt mixture was improved, and a new reconstruction method was proposed. A 3D numerical model of the asphalt mixture contained irregular-shaped coarse aggregate, mineral gradation, and asphalt mortar; furthermore, the particle algorithm established the air void distribution. Then, the numerical simulation of the asphalt mixture’s torsional shear was completed; in addition, the stress, displacement, and contact of the specimens at each stage were analyzed. The results showed that the stress and displacement in different stages changed greatly with the loading, i.e., the crack generated from a weak point on the surface and then spread to the ends with an oblique angle of about 45°. At the same time, the shear failure process of the asphalt mixture was studied. The virtual test method could accomplish the implementation of the numerical simulation of torsional shear; it also provided a good research method for analysis of the asphalt mixture’s shear failure process.
False-Positive Results in a Population-Based Colorectal Screening Program: Cumulative Risk from 2000 to 2017 with Biennial Screening
Authors: Ibáñez-Sanz Gemma , Garcia Montse , Milà Núria , Hubbard Rebecca A. , Vidal Carmen , Binefa Gemma , Benito Llúcia , Moreno Víctor
Published: September 2019

Background:

The aim of this study was to estimate the cumulative risk of a false-positive (FP) result in a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) through 7 screening rounds and to identify its associated factors in a population-based colorectal cancer screening program.

Methods:

Retrospective cohort study, which included participants ages 50 to 69 years of a colorectal cancer screening program in Catalonia, Spain. During this period, 2 FOBTs were used (guaiac and immunochemical). A discrete-time survival model was performed to identify risk factors of receiving a positive FOBT with no high-risk adenoma or colorectal cancer in the follow-up colonoscopy. We estimated the probability of having at least 1 FP over 7 screening rounds.

Results:

During the period of 2000 to 2017, the cumulative FP risk was 16.3% (IC95%: 14.6%–18.3%), adjusted by age, sex, and type of test. The median number of screens was 2. Participants who began screening at age 50 years had a 7.3% [95% confidence interval (CI), 6.35–8.51] and a 12.4% (95% CI, 11.00–13.94) probability of an FP with 4 screening rounds of guaiac-based test and immunochemical test, respectively. Age, the fecal immunochemical test, first screening, and number of personal screens were factors associated with an FP result among screenees.

Conclusions:

The cumulative risk of an FP in colorectal screening using FOBT seems acceptable as the colonoscopy, with its high accuracy, lengthens the time until additional colorectal screening is required, while complication rates remain low.

Impact:

It is useful to determine the cumulative FP risk in cancer screening for both advising individuals and for health resources planning.