bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Approximate GCD in Bernstein basis
Authors: Corless Robert M. , Sevyeri Leili Rafiee
Published: December 2019

In general, finding the Greatest Common Divisor (GCD) of two exactly-known univariate polynomials is a well understood problem. However, it is also known that the GCD problem for
noisy
polynomials (polynomials with errors in their coefficients) is ill-posed. More precisely, a small error in coefficients of polynomials
P
and
Q
with a non-trivial GCD generically leads to a constant GCD. We note that the choice of basis makes no difference to this difficulty.
Intrinsic factorization of ideals in Dedekind domains
Authors: Darkey-Mensah Mawunyo Kofi , Koprowski Przemysław
Published: December 2019

We present a generalization of a polynomial factorization algorithm that works with ideals in maximal orders of global function fields. The method presented in this paper is intrinsic in the sense that it does not depend on the embedding of the ring of polynomials into the Dedekind domain in question.
An additive decomposition in multiple logarithmic extensions
Authors: Du Hao , Guo Jing , Li Ziming
Published: December 2019

Let
K
be a tower of logarithmic extensions over
C
(
x
). There exists a well-generated tower
E
of logarithmic extensions containing
K.
We outline an additive decomposition in
E.
More precisely, for an element
f
of
E
, the additive decomposition computes
g
,
r
∈
E
such that
f
=
g'
+
r
with the following two properties: (i)
r
is minimal in some sense; (ii)
f
has an integral in
E
if and only if
r
= 0. Furthermore,
f
∈
K
has an elementary integral over
K
if and only if
r
is a
C
-linear combination of some logarithmic derivatives in
E.
Consequently, we can determine elementary integrability in logarithmic extensions without solving any Risch's equation. This is a generalization of the results in the paper
Additive Decompositions in Primitive Extensions
by S. Chen, H. Du and Z. Li in Proc. of ISSAC 2018.
New bivariate Hensel lifting algorithm for
n
factors
Authors: Paluck Garrett , Monagan Michael
Published: December 2019

We present a new algorithm for performing linear Hensel lifting of bivariate polynomials over a finite field
F

p

with
p
elements. It lifts
n
monic, univariate polynomials to recover the factors of a polynomial
A
(
x
,
y
) ∈
F

p

[
x
,
y
] which is monic in
x
, and bounded by degrees

d
x

= deg(
A
,
x
) and

d
y

= deg(
A
,
y
). Our algorithm improves upon Bernardin's algorithm in [1] and reduces the cost from [EQUATION] to [EQUATION]. Experimental results show that our algorithm works efficiently for large degree polynomials.
Prenatal infection with Mycoplasma pulmonis in rats exaggerates the angiotensin II pressor response in adult offspring
Authors: Watkins J. M. , von Chamier M. , Brown M. B. , Reyes L. , Hayward L. F.
Published: December 2019

Exposure to different stressors in utero is linked to adult diseases such as obesity and hypertension. In this study, the impact of prenatal infection (PNI) on adult body weight and cardiovascular function was evaluated using a naturally occurring rodent pathogen, Mycoplasma pulmonis (MP). Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were infected with MP on gestational day 14 and gave birth naturally. Adult PNI offspring weighed more than controls, but resting mean arterial pressure (MAP) was unchanged. Subcutaneous injection of angiotensin II (10 μg/kg) elicited a rise in MAP that was greater in both male and female PNI offspring compared with controls ( P < 0.03). The accompanying reflex bradycardia was similar to the controls, suggesting that PNI induced baroreflex dysfunction. Subcutaneous nicotine administration, a potent cardiorespiratory stimulus, also elicited a transient rise in MAP that was generally greater in the PNI group, but the change in MAP from baseline was only significant in the PNI females compared with controls ( P < 0.03). Elevated body weight and cardiovascular reactivity in the PNI offspring was associated with an increase in the ratio of hypothalamic corticotrophin-releasing hormone receptors type 1 to type 2 gene expression in both sexes compared with controls. These findings support previous studies demonstrating that PNI induces alterations in cardiovascular function and body weight. Yet, unlike previous studies utilizing other models of PNI (e.g., endotoxin), MP PNI did not induce resting hypertension. Thus, our study provides a foundation for future studies evaluating the cardiovascular risks of offspring exposed to microbial challenges in utero.
The effect of the fraction of inspired oxygen on the NIRS-derived deoxygenated hemoglobin “breakpoint” during ramp-incremental test
Authors: Azevedo Rafael de Almeida , Béjar Saona Jorge E. , Inglis Erin Calaine , Iannetta Danilo , Murias Juan M.
Published: December 2019

During ramp-incremental (RI) exercise to exhaustion, the near-infrared spectroscopy-derived deoxygenated hemoglobin ([HHb]) signal in the vastus lateralis muscle shows a linear increase up to a point at which a plateau-like response is manifested ([HHb]bp). This study investigated if 1) the [HHb]bp is affected by different fractions of inspired O2 ([Formula: see text]) [hypoxia (16%; HYPO); normoxia (21%; NORM); hyperoxia (30%; HYPER)]; and 2) an abrupt change to hyperoxic-inspired gas just before the occurrence of the [HHb]bp (HYPERSWITCH) would affect the [HHb] plateau-like response. Ten physically active male participants reported to the laboratory on four separate occasions to perform an RI test to exhaustion in NORM, HYPO, and HYPER and an RI test to exhaustion with an abrupt increase in [Formula: see text] (30%; HYPERSWITCH) 15 W before the power output (PO) associated with [HHb]bp in normoxia. PO, [HHb], tissue O2 ([Formula: see text]), and pulse O2 saturation ([Formula: see text]) were recorded continuously. Peak PO was significantly lower in HYPO (290 ± 21 W) and higher in HYPER (321 ± 22 W) and HYPERSWITCH (320 ± 19 W) compared with NORM (311 ± 18 W). The PO associated with [HHb]bp was not different between NORM and HYPER (246 ± 23 vs. 247 ± 24 W), but it was lower in HYPO (198 ± 31 W) than NORM and HYPER. The PO associated with the [HHb]bp in HYPERSWITCH (240 ± 23) was not different compared with NORM. HYPER and HYPERSWITCH resulted in greater [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] compared with NORM. These results suggest that the [HHb]bp response is not dependent of O2 driving pressure and that other physiological mechanisms might determine its occurrence.
Development of a conversion model between mechanical and electrical vestibular stimuli
Authors: Chen A. , Khosravi-Hashemi N. , Kuo C. , Kramer J. K. , Blouin J.-S.
Published: December 2019

The vestibular end-organs encode for linear and angular head accelerations in space contributing to our internal representation of self-motion. Activation of the vestibular system with transmastoid electrical current has recently grown in popularity; however, a direct relationship between electrically evoked and mechanically evoked vestibular responses remains elusive in humans. We have developed and tested a mechanical-to-electrical vestibular stimulus conversion model incorporating physiological activation of primary vestibular afferents identified in nonhuman primates. We compared ocular torsional responses between mechanical (chair rotation) and model-derived electrical (binaural-bipolar) stimuli in separate experiments for an angular velocity step change (±10 deg/s over 1 s, ±4-mA peak amplitude; n = 10) and multisine angular velocities (±10 deg/s, 9.7 mA peak to peak, 0.05–1 Hz; n = 5), respectively. Perception of whole body rotation ( n = 18) to our step-change stimuli was also evaluated. Ocular torsional slow-phase velocity responses between stimulation types were similar (paired two one-sided tests of equivalence: multiple P < 0.002; one-sample t test: P = 0.178) and correlated (Pearson’s coefficient: multiple P < 0.001). Bootstrap analysis of perceived angular velocity likewise showed similarity in perceptual decay dynamics. These data suggest that central processing between stimuli was similar, and our vestibular stimulus conversion model with a conversion factor of ∼0.4 mA per deg/s for an angular velocity step change can generate electrical stimuli that replicates dynamic vestibular activation elicited by mechanical whole body rotations. This proposed vestibular conversion model represents an initial framework for using electrical stimuli to generate mechanically equivalent activation of primary vestibular afferents for use in biomedical applications and immersive reality technologies.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY With the growing popularity of electrical vestibular stimulation in biomedical and immersive reality applications, a direct conversion model between electrical and mechanical vestibular stimuli is needed. We developed a model to generate electrical stimuli mimicking the physiological activation of vestibular afferents evoked by mechanical rotations. Ocular and perceptual responses evoked by mechanical and model-derived electrical stimuli were similar, thus providing a critical first step toward generation of electrically induced vestibular responses that have a realistic mechanical equivalent.
UAV-Aided Data Delivery Scheme Based on Opportunistic Virtual Intersections for Smart Transportation Networks
Authors: Li Wei , Liu Xianxing , Ma Xiaoyong , Wang Xianwei , Zhou Yi
Published: December 2019

Smart transportation networks, featured by high mobility and intermittent connectivity, are facing critical challenges in data delivery especially when the network is sparse and with less or no support from any infrastructure, such as in disaster and military environments. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), due to their flexible mobility, can be envisioned to enhance the connectivity of ground vehicular networks. In this paper, incorporating UAVs into vehicular networks, a novel data delivery scheme, named UAV-assisted data delivery (UADD), is proposed for smart transportation networks. We introduce a novel concept called “opportunistic virtual intersections”, at which UAVs can communicate with ground vehicles, and assist to deliver data packets. Specifically, at an opportunistic virtual intersection, UAVs may act as a relay, which can relay data packets between two vehicles as an intermediate hop, or deliver data packets in a store-carry-and-forward manner. The data forwarding rules are devised based on expected delivery delay and delivery probability of data packets. The performance evaluation demonstrates that the proposed UAV-assisted data delivery scheme can achieve a significant improvement of data delivery performance in terms of delivery delay and delivery ratio.
Elderly Patients with Moderate Chronic Ischemic Mitral Regurgitation: Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Alone or Concomitant Mitral Annuloplasty?
Authors: Ji Qiang , Zhao Yun , Shen JinQiang , Wang YuLin , Yang Ye , Xia LiMin , Song Kai , Wang ChunSheng
Published: December 2019

Background. An increasing number of elderly patients with ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR) are referred for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). However, data about the management of elderly patients with moderate IMR are scanty. This study evaluates the impacts of two surgical approaches (CABG alone or concomitant mitral annuloplasty (MAP)) on in-hospital and midterm outcomes, to attempt to determine an appropriate treatment option for elderly patients with moderate chronic IMR. Methods. All eligible patients over 65 years of age were included and were entered into either a MAP group (patients undergoing CABG plus MAP, n = 96) or a CABG group (patients receiving CABG alone, n = 104). Baseline and surgical characteristics were analyzed, and in-hospital and midterm outcomes between groups were compared after propensity score-matching (1 : 1). Results. Using propensity score-matching, 82 pairs of patients were successfully established in a 1 : 1 ratio. No significant differences between the two matched groups were found regarding surgical mortality (4.9% vs. 1.2%, p=0.173) and major postoperative morbidity. 150 patients (76 in the MAP group and 74 in the CABG group) received regular follow-up visit with the median duration of 37 months. Compared with the CABG group, the MAP group received a similar overall survival but a better recurrent MR-free survival (stratified log-rank p, 0.492 and < 0.001, respectively). Using Cox regression, the MAP group as compared with the CABG group did not affect midterm survival probability (propensity score-adjusted hazard ratio, 0.854; 95% confidence interval, 0.571–2.729, p=0.630). Additionally, patients in the MAP group had a significantly lower ratio of NYHA class III-IV at the latest follow-up by comparison with patients in the CABG group (19.7% vs. 35.5%, p=0.033). Conclusion. Compared with CABG alone, concomitant mitral annuloplasty is associated with improved midterm outcomes (including reduced IMR recurrence and improved cardiac functional class) but shares similar surgical mortality and major postoperative morbidity and may be a promising treatment option for elderly patients with moderate chronic IMR.
Experimental Investigation on the Interfacial Debonding between FRP Sheet and Concrete under Medium Strain Rate
Authors: Zhang Zihua , Xiao Yunyi , Zhuge Ping , Zhang Xiaocun
Published: December 2019

Fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites have been widely used to strengthen the existing reinforced concrete (RC) structures to against static and dynamic loads. During the past decades, the interfacial bond behavior between FRP and the concrete substrate under static load has been systematically investigated by experimental and numerical approaches. In contrast, the interfacial bond performance under dynamic loads, e.g., impact and explosive loading, is still far away from well known, especially taking the strain rate effect into account. In this contribution, the single-lap shear test is conducted to sixty specimens at the medium strain rate between 1.0E−4/s and 5.0E−3/s. The effects of various system parameters, including the strain rate, concrete strength, type of FRP and adhesive, on the interfacial fracture energy, peak shear stress, FRP strain distribution, interfacial shear stress, and effective bond length, are thoroughly investigated. It has been revealed that the strain rate and concrete strength can significantly affect the interfacial fracture energy and peak shear stress. The specimen with CFRP sheet possesses higher interfacial shear stress but lower fracture energy than that with BFRP sheet. The adhesive with lower elastic modulus is helpful to improve interfacial energy dissipation under dynamic load. The effective bond length decreases with concrete strength and strain rate, mainly between 75 mm and 90 mm, which is significantly shorter than that under static load. Inspired from the Kulkarni and Shah model, a new model is proposed to evaluate the interfacial fracture energy and peak shear stress with respect to the strain rate, and the estimated values agree well with the experiments.
Comparative Proteomic Analysis of Visceral Adipose Tissue in Morbidly Obese and Normal Weight Chinese Women
Authors: Shang Chen , Sun Wei , Wang Chunlin , Wang Xiangqing , Zhu Huijuan , Wang Linjie , Yang Hongbo , Wang Xue , Gong Fengying , Pan Hui
Published: December 2019

Objective. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) plays a central role in the balance of energy metabolism. The objective of this study was to investigate the differentially expressed proteins in VAT between morbidly obese (BMI >35 kg/m2) and normal weight Chinese women. Method. Nine morbidly obese women and 8 normal weight women as controls were enrolled. Abdominal VAT was excised and analyzed by label-free one-dimensional liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (1D-LC-MS/MS). Differentially expressed VAT proteins were further analyzed with Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). Masson’s trichrome staining and CD68 immunohistochemical staining of VAT were conducted in all subjects. Result. A total of 124 differentially expressed proteins were found with a ≥2-fold difference. Forty-one proteins were upregulated, and 83 proteins were downregulated in obese individuals. These altered VAT proteins were involved in the attenuation of the liver X receptor/retinoid X receptor (LXR/RXR) signaling pathway and the activation of the acute-phase response process. Three proteins (ACSL1, HADH, and UCHL1) were validated by western blotting using the same set of VAT samples from 6 morbidly obese and 7 normal weight patients, and the results indicated that the magnitude and direction of the protein changes were in accordance with the proteomic analysis. Masson’s trichrome staining and CD68 immunohistochemical staining demonstrated that there was much more collagen fiber deposition and CD68-positive macrophages in the VAT of morbidly obese patients, suggesting extensive fiber deposition and macrophage infiltration. Conclusion. A number of differentially expressed proteins were identified in VAT between morbidly obese and normal weight Chinese females. These differential proteins could be potential candidates in addressing the role of VAT in the development of obesity.
Prognostic Impact of Lymphoid Enhancer Factor 1 Expression and Serum Galectin.3 in Egyptian AML Patients
Authors: ElBaiomy M. A. , Aref S. , El Zaafarany M. , Atwa Sara , Akl Tamer , El-Beshbishi Wafaa , El-Ashwah Shaimaa , Ibrahim L. , El-Ghonemy M.
Published: December 2019

Background. Deregulation of the Wnt signaling pathway had a role in haematological malignancies. Previous studies reported that lymphoid enhancer factor 1 (LEF1) expression and serum Galectin-3 level could affect clinical parameters and outcome in acute myeloid leukemia patients, but as far as we know, no study has addressed their combined effect on AML patients.Aim. We studied the expression of LEF1 by real-time qPCR and measured serum level of Gal.3 by ELISA technique in peripheral blood of 69 AML patients and correlated it with different clinicopathological criteria of patients, response, PFS and OS.Results. We found high expression (LEF1high) was associated with better OS (p=0.02) and EFS (p=0.019) compared to LEF1low, low serum Gal.3 level had better OS (p=0.014) and EFS (p=0.02) compared to high serum Gal.3 level. LEF1highless likely to carry a FLT3-ITD (p=0.047) compared to LEF1lowpatient, also LEF1highcharacterized by favorable risk (p=0.02) than LEF1lowpatients. While patients with higher Gal-3 levels characterized by poor risk (p=0.02) than lower Gal.3 lels, also more likely to carry a FLT3-ITD with borderline significance (p=0.054). Combined LEF1high/Gal.3 low patients had lower baseline blast percentages (p=0.02), favorable risk (p=0.01), less likely to carry FLT3-ITD (p=0.02), higher CR rate (p=0.055), shorter time to CR (0.001) than other groups. Among high Gal.3 level group, LEF1highexpression improved OS and EFS (20 and 15 months respectively) vs LEF1lowexpression (13 and 8 months respectively).Conclusion. We conclude that high LEF1 expression was a favorable prognostic marker which can define AML patient risk and outcome independent from assessing the serum galectin.3 level.
Spinning Process Test and Optical Topography Measurement Technology for the Shell with Longitudinal and Latitudinal Inner Ribs
Authors: Liang Wei , Lv Qiongying , Guan Lin , Xing Zhigang
Published: December 2019

The paper studies the complicated problem in the spinning process of the shell with longitudinal and latitudinal inner ribs. The finite element software ABAQUS is used to establish the finite element model of the cylindrical shell with the longitudinal and latitudinal inner ribs. The numerical simulation of the spinning process is carried out. The stress distribution and strain distribution of the inner and outer surfaces during the spin-forming process are determined, and the orthogonal test method is used to determine the optimization process test parameters. The influence of the main process parameters on the wall thickness difference of the inner rib shell is obtained by the range analysis: wall thickness reduction rate > rotary wheel feed speed > rotor working angle (arranging according to their influences). And then the corresponding process parameters recommended by the spinning test are given. The measurement problem of inner ribs is solved by building of the robot shape measurement system which helps detect the three-dimensional shape of the inner ribs, and the precision of the spun sample was detected by the point cloud deviation comparison.
Exploring the Determinants of Antenatal Care Services Uptake: A Qualitative Study among Women in a Rural Community in Northern Ghana
Authors: Nachinab Gilbert Ti-enkawol , Adjei Charles Ampong , Ziba Florence Assibi , Asamoah Richard , Attafuah Priscilla Adumoah
Published: December 2019

Background. Global evidence has shown significant contribution of Antenatal care (ANC) in the detection and treatment of pregnancy related complications. Over the years, many areas in Ghana have recorded high uptake of ANC. However, this is not the case for Binduri district in Northern Ghana where only 37.4% of pregnant women utilised the services of ANC during their period of pregnancy compared to a national figure of 87%. We therefore sought to explore the determinants of ANC uptake among women who failed to utilise ANC services during their period of pregnancy in Binduri District in Northern Ghana. Methodology. The study was an exploratory descriptive study using purposive sampling technique. A total of 15 women who met the inclusion criteria for the study were recruited for a face-to-face interview. The data were analysed using the procedure of inductive thematic analysis. Results. The study findings showed that several factors hindered the use of ANC among our participants. The individual factors that were responsible for nonutilisation of ANC included financial constraints hindering registration with the national health insurance scheme, excuses of being busy, perception that pregnancy was not sickness and concentration on work. Perceived poor attitude of nurses was the only health system factor that contributed to non utilisation of ANC services. Conclusion. There is the need for establishment of registration centres of the national health insurance in all communities to make the scheme more accessible. There should also be intensive public education on importance of attending ANC.
Comparing MicroRNA Profilings of Purified HER-2-Negative and HER-2-Positive Cells Validates miR-362-5p/Sema3A as Characteristic Molecular Change in Triple-Negative Breast Cancers
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqing , He Qi , Sun Leiqin , Zhang Yanfei , Qin Shengying , Fan Junwei , Wang Jianfeng
Published: December 2019

Background. HER-2 is a key molecule serving as the therapeutic target, prognostic biomarker, and classification marker in breast cancer. Accurate microRNA profilings had not been conducted in purified tumor cells of HER-2-negative and HER-2-positive tissue specimens obtained from breast cancer patients. Methods. (i) Differential expression microRNA discovery using laser capture microdissection- (LCM-) assisted specimen preparation and microRNA array chips on HER-2 overexpressing and triple-negative breast carcinoma (TNBC) subtype tissues, (ii) differential expression microRNA validation by quantitative real-time PCR, and (iii) independent validation on tissue microarray. Results. Five microRNAs (miR-20a-5p, miR-221-3p, miR-362-5p, miR-502-3p, and miR-222-3p) were screened and validated as upregulated microRNAs in TNBC cells comparing to HER-2 overexpressing cells using a microRNA array (5 cases in each group) and quantitative real-time PCR (20 cases in each group). The expression difference of miR-362-5p had the most significant statistical significance (p=0.0016) among the five microRNAs. The expression of miR-362-5p and its target gene Sema3A was further analyzed using in situ hybridization (ISH) and immunohistochemistry on standard tissue sections (n=150). 70.8% of HER-2-negative cells showed moderate expression of miR-362-5p whereas 20.4% HER-2-negative cells correlated with strong expression of miR-362-5p (p<0.0001). The proportion of patients with moderate/strong miR-362-5p expression in luminal, HER-2 overexpressing, and TNBC subtypes were 53.2%, 22.2%, and 74.3%, respectively (p=0.0002). High miR-362-5p expressers had shorter overall survival in the univariate analysis (p=0.046). There was a significant negative correlation between miR-362-5p and Sema3A expression (p<0.0001). The patients with negative/weak Sema3A protein expression had poorer prognosis than those with moderate (HR: 3.723, p=0.021) or strong (HR: 3.966, p=0.013) Sema3A protein expression in the multivariate analysis. Conclusions. miR-362-5p/Sema3A might provide a promising therapeutic pathway and represents a candidate therapeutic target of the TNBC subtype.
Prediction of the Spinal Musculoskeletal Loadings during Level Walking and Stair Climbing after Two Types of Simulated Interventions in Patients with Lumbar Disc Herniation
Authors: Kuai Shengzheng , Guan Xinyu , Liu Weiqiang , Ji Run , Xiong Jianyi , Wang Daping , Zhou Wenyu
Published: December 2019

Background. Low back pain (LBP) continues to be a severe global healthy problem, and a lot of patients would undergo conservative or surgical treatments. However, the improving capacity of spinal load sharing during activities of daily living (ADLs) after interventions is largely unknown. The objective of this study was to quantitatively predict the improvement of spinal musculoskeletal loadings during level walking and stair climbing after two simulated interventions. Material and Methods. Twenty-six healthy adults and seven lumbar disc herniation patients performed level walking and stair climbing in sequence. The spinal movement was recorded using a motion capture system. The experimental data were applied to drive a musculoskeletal model to calculate all the lumbar joint resultant forces and muscle activities of seventeen main trunk muscle groups. Rehabilitation and reconstruction were selected as the representative of conservative and surgical treatment, respectively. The spinal load sharing after rehabilitation and reconstruction was predicted by replacing the patients’ spine rhythm with healthy subjects’ spine rhythm and altering the center of rotation at the L5S1 level, respectively. Results. During both level walking and stair climbing, the joint resultant forces of the lower lumbar intervertebral discs were predicted to reduce after the two simulated inventions. In addition, the maximum muscle activities of the most trunk muscle groups decreased after simulated rehabilitation and conversely increased after simulated reconstruction. Conclusion. The predictions revealed the different compensatory responses on the spinal load sharing after two simulated interventions, severing as guidance for making preoperative planning and rehabilitation planning.
Minimum Meal Frequency Practice and Its Associated Factors among Children Aged 6–23 Months in Amibara District, North East Ethiopia
Authors: Wagris Mohammed , Seid Anwar , Kahssay Molla , Ahmed Osman
Published: December 2019

Background. Minimum meal frequency, a proxy indicator for a child’s energy requirements, examines the number of times children received foods other than breast milk. Without adequate diversity and meal frequency, infants and young children are vulnerable to malnutrition, especially stunting and micronutrient deficiencies, and increased morbidity and mortality. In Ethiopia, only 45% of children had fed with an age-appropriate minimum meal frequency. Objective. The study was aimed to assess the minimal meal frequency practice, and its associated factors among children aged 6–23 months in Amibara district, North East Ethiopia. Methods. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May 07–May 23, 2018. Systematic random sampling technique was applied to select 367 children aged 6–23 months. The univariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses model was used to identify potential predictors of meeting minimum meal frequency. All variables with P values <0.25 in the univariable analysis were taken to multivariable analysis, and variables at P values <0.05 were considered as statistically significant. Results. The study revealed a prevalence of minimum meal frequency 69.2% (95% CI: 0.64–0.74). Timely initiation of breastfeeding (AOR = 2.2, 95% CI (1.17, 4.18)), current breastfeeding status (AOR = 7.5, 95% CI (3.95, 14.4)), meeting minimum dietary diversity (AOR = 3.7, 95% CI (1.85, 7.44)), and household hunger scale (AOR = 5.3, 95% CI (1.5, 12.5)) were some of the significant predictors to achieve minimum meal frequency. Conclusion. The prevalence of minimum meal frequency practice is low in the study area. Current breastfeeding status, timely initiation of breastfeeding, no/little household hunger scale, and meeting minimum dietary diversity were found as significant predictors for minimum meal frequency practice. Mothers having children aged 6–23 months should be aware and practice appropriate infant and young child feeding practices including timely initiation of breastfeeding, breastfeeding till the child celebrate his/her second birthday, recommended meal frequency, and dietary diversity practice. In addition, households should be assessed and strengthened for food security.
Fluid Discrimination Based on Frequency-Dependent AVO Inversion with the Elastic Parameter Sensitivity Analysis
Authors: Wang Pu , Li Jingye , Chen Xiaohong , Wang Kedong , Wang Benfeng
Published: December 2019

Fluid discrimination is an extremely important part of seismic data interpretation. It plays an important role in the refined description of hydrocarbon-bearing reservoirs. The conventional AVO inversion based on Zoeppritz’s equation shows potential in lithology prediction and fluid discrimination; however, the dispersion and attenuation induced by pore fluid are not fully considered. The relationship between dispersion terms in different frequency-dependent AVO equations has not yet been discussed. Following the arguments of Chapman, the influence of pore fluid on elastic parameters is analyzed in detail. We find that the dispersion and attenuation of Russell fluid factor, Lamé parameter, and bulk modulus are more pronounced than those of P-wave modulus. The Russell fluid factor is most prominent among them. Based on frequency-dependent AVO inversion, the uniform expression of different dispersion terms of these parameters is derived. Then, incorporating the P-wave difference with the dispersion terms, we obtain new P-wave difference dispersion factors which can identify the gas-bearing reservoir location better compared with the dispersion terms. Field data application also shows that the dispersion term of Russell fluid factor is optimal in identifying fluid. However, the dispersion term of Russell fluid factor could be unsatisfactory, if the value of the weighting parameter associated with dry rock is improper. Then, this parameter is studied to propose a reasonable setting range. The results given by this paper are helpful for the fluid discrimination in hydrocarbon-bearing rocks.
Structural and Biomechanical Characterization of a Scaffold-Free Skin Equivalent Model via Biophysical Methods
Authors: Heraud Sandrine , Delalleau Alexandre , Houcine Audrey , Guiraud Béatrice , Bacqueville Daniel , Payre Bruno , Delisle Marie-Bernadette , Bessou-Touya Sandrine , Damour Odile
Published: December 2019

Aims: Among in vitro skin models, the scaffold-free skin equivalent (SFSE), without exogenous material, is interesting for pharmacotoxicological studies. Our aim was to adapt in vivo biophysical methods to study the structure, thickness, and extracellular matrix of our in vitro model without any chemical fixation needed as for histology. Methods: We evaluated 3 batches of SFSE and characterized them by histology, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and immunofluorescence. In parallel, we investigated 3 biophysical methods classically used for in vivo evaluation, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and laser scanning microscopy (LSM) imaging devices as well as the cutometer suction to study the biomechanical properties. Results: OCT allowed the evaluation of SFSE total thickness and its different compartments. LSM has a greater resolution enabling an evaluation at the cell scale and the orientation of collagen fibers. The viscoelasticity measurement by cutometry was possible on our thin skin model and might be linked with mature collagen bundles visible in TEM and LSM and with elastic fibers seen in immunofluorescence. Conclusion: Our data demonstrated the simplicity and sensitivity of these different in vivo biophysical devices on our thin skin model. These noninvasive tools allow to study the morphology and the biomechanics of in vitro models.
Microcirculation: Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Clinical Application
Authors: Guven Goksel , Hilty Matthias P. , Ince Can
Published: December 2019

This paper briefly reviews the physiological components of the microcirculation, focusing on its function in homeostasis and its central function in the realization of oxygen transport to tissue cells. Its pivotal role in the understanding of circulatory compromise in states of shock and renal compromise is discussed. Our introduction of hand-held vital microscopes (HVM) to clinical medicine has revealed the importance of the microcirculation as a central target organ in states of critical illness and inadequate response to therapy. Technical and methodological developments have been made in hardware and in software including our recent introduction and validation of automatic analysis software called MicroTools, which now allows point-of-care use of HVM imaging at the bedside for instant availability of functional microcirculatory parameters needed for microcirculatory targeted resuscitation procedures to be a reality.
The Epidemiology of Epilepsy
Authors: Beghi Ettore
Published: December 2019

Epilepsy is a chronic disease of the brain characterized by an enduring (i.e., persisting) predisposition to generate seizures, unprovoked by any immediate central nervous system insult, and by the neurobiologic, cognitive, psychological, and social consequences of seizure recurrences. Epilepsy affects both sexes and all ages with worldwide distribution. The prevalence and the incidence of epilepsy are slightly higher in men compared to women and tend to peak in the elderly, reflecting the higher frequency of stroke, neurodegenerative diseases, and tumors in this age-group. Focal seizures are more common than generalized seizures both in children and in adults. The etiology of epilepsy varies according to the sociodemographic characteristics of the affected populations and the extent of the diagnostic workup, but a documented cause is still lacking in about 50% of cases from high-income countries (HIC). The overall prognosis of epilepsy is favorable in the majority of patients when measured by seizure freedom. Reports from low/middle-income countries (LMIC; where patients with epilepsy are largely untreated) give prevalence and remission rates that overlap those of HICs. As the incidence of epilepsy appears higher in most LMICs, the overlapping prevalence can be explained by misdiagnosis, acute symptomatic seizures and premature mortality. Studies have consistently shown that about one-half of cases tend to achieve prolonged seizure remission. However, more recent reports on the long-term prognosis of epilepsy have identified differing prognostic patterns, including early and late remission, a relapsing-remitting course, and even a worsening course (characterized by remission followed by relapse and unremitting seizures). Epilepsy per se carries a low mortality risk, but significant differences in mortality rates are expected when comparing incidence and prevalence studies, children and adults, and persons with idiopathic and symptomatic seizures. Sudden unexplained death is most frequent in people with generalized tonic-clonic seizures, nocturnal seizures, and drug refractory epilepsy.
Subungual Hematoma with Feline Resemblance
Authors: Sharma Divya , Cressey Brienne D. , Jellinek Nathaniel J.
Published: December 2019

A 54-year-old woman was found to have an incidental pigmented lesion on her right thumbnail. Interestingly, this lesion was in the shape of a cat and she also had a cat tattoo. We briefly review how coincidences have been known to occur in dermatology. We also highlight how dermoscopy can aid in differentiating pigmented lesions from trauma-induced changes.
Management of Intradiverticular Bladder Tumours: A Systematic Review
Authors: Poletajew Sławomir , Krajewski Wojciech , Adamowicz Jan , Kołodziej Anna , Zdrojowy Romuald , Radziszewski Piotr
Published: December 2019

The aim of this systematic review was to present available data on diagnostic and therapeutic options in intradiverticular bladder tumour cases. A literature search within the Medline database was conducted in March 2019 with combinations of the following search terms: bladder cancer, bladder tumour, bladder diverticulum, diverticulum, intradiverticular. Seventeen relevant articles were identified. Diagnostic and therapeutic options for intradiverticular bladder tumour follow the general management of bladder cancer patients. The most important differences include a higher rate of non-urothelial histology, higher rate of invasive cancers (stage T1 and higher), no stage T2 disease due to lack of a muscularis propria layer and potential role of partial cystectomy or diverticulectomy in the treatment. Among cystectomized patients, the survival is comparable to general bladder cancer patients after cystectomy. Data on accuracy of imaging and endoscopy in diagnosing intradiverticular bladder tumour are poor. There is no study comparing different treatment modalities in intradiverticular bladder tumour patients. Limitations of this review include low number and low evidence level of available studies, as well as low number and heterogeneity of enrolled subjects. Available literature data cannot be the basis for clinical recommendations in intradiverticular bladder tumour cases. While bladder cancer is the most common urinary tract malignancy and at least 1% of cases are intradiverticular, further research in this field is justified.
Renal Replacement Therapy Preferences Survey: Is Allo-Hemodialysis an Acceptable Option for Patient Caregivers and Health Care Professionals?
Authors: Campos Israel , Arellano Jesus , Gomez Victor , Quiroz Jorge , Mariscal Luis Alfonso
Published: December 2019

End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is a worldwide unsolved problem. Access to renal replacement therapies (RRT) is still a challenge in some developed countries and even more so in developing countries. Allo-hemodialysis (alloHD) is a recently proposed, still hypothetical, alternative RRT where the blood of a healthy subject (“buddy”) flows countercurrent to the patient’s blood through the dialyzer. Solutes and fluid are transferred to the buddy and then cleared by his/her healthy kidneys, making alloHD essentially a procedure where the buddy “donates” kidney function intermittently to the patient. Its drastically reduced complexity makes ­alloHD particularly attractive for low-resource settings. The acceptance of alloHD by patients, caregivers, and health care professionals (HCP) is unknown. In this cross-sectional study, we surveyed the preferences and acceptance of alloHD in 3 groups: caregivers related to ESKD patients, nonrelated caregivers (nrCG), and HCP. Four areas were explored: RRT preferences, kidney organ donation for transplant acceptance, ­alloHD acceptance as a potential RRT, and alloHD technique acceptance. Hemodialysis was the preferred form of RRT. Kidney donation acceptance was similar in all groups. Intermittent kidney function donation (i.e., alloHD) was mainly accepted by related and nrCG but less accepted by HCP (87, 90, and 60% respectively, p < 0.01). New RRT alternatives such as alloHD are expected to be better received and accepted once animal, and clinical studies have demonstrated their feasibility, safety, and benefits. New RRT strategies are required primarily in most vulnerable populations and should be explored.
Interaction of DRD2/ANKK1 Taq1A Genotype with in-Store Retail Food Environment Exposures on Diet Quality in a Cohort of Quebec Adults
Authors: Nielsen Daiva E. , Han Yang , Paquet Catherine , Portella Andre K. , Ma Yu , Dube Laurette
Published: December 2019

Background/Aims: Gene-environment interactions may be relevant for nutrition outcomes. This study assessed the interaction between DRD2/ANKK1 Taq1A genotype and exposures to in-store retail food environment on diet quality. Methods: CARTaGENE biobank data (n = 3,532) were linked to provincial food retail data. The Canadian adaptation of the Healthy Eating Index 2010 (HEI-C) was calculated from food frequency questionnaires. Generalized linear models adjusted for sociodemographic factors, anthropometrics, and energy intake were used to assess interactions between the Taq1A variant and retail food measures. Results: A significant inverse interaction was observed between Taq1A and ice cream store displays on HEI-C score (estimate: –15.46 [95% confidence interval (CI): –24.83, –6.10], p = 0.0012) where, among allele carriers, increasing exposure to ice cream displays was associated with a lower HEI-C score as compared to allele carriers with a lower exposure. A significant positive interaction between Taq1A and price of vegetables was also observed, where, among allele carriers, increasing exposure to a higher price was associated with a higher HEI-C score compared to allele carriers with exposure to a lower price (estimate: 2.46 [95% CI: 0.78, 4.14], p = 0.0041). The opposite pattern was observed among non-carriers. Conclusions: DRD2/ANKK1 Taq1A is associated with adaptive responses to ice cream displays and vegetable prices, suggesting a differential susceptibility to retail environment food cues.
Detailed Review of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Kakitapalli Yesubabu , Ampolu Janakiram , Madasu Satya Dinesh , Sai Kumar M.L.S.
Published: December 2019

Background: Nephropathy problems in the Udhanam region of Andhra Pradesh in India have motivated researchers to investigate the various factors related to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Initially, studies came across the markers of identification of CKD, i.e., glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and albumin creatinine rate, as global markers of identification. Cystatin C (Cys C) and its reciprocal (1/Cys C) are used to calculate GFR. This is a very easy method compared to the more accurate methods such as radiolabelled tracer clearances, which are invasive, may involve radiation, and require several hours to perform, e.g., 99-diethylene triamine penta-acetic acid (99mTc-DTPA) and 51Cr-EDTA. This article provides the causes (or risk factors), symptoms, and complications of CKD in a clear manner such that even common people can easily understand. Once a patient is detected and proved to be affected by CKD then the patient as well as the caretakers, including doctors, must follow some constraints. Thereby it is possible to prevent CKD progression in the patient. Modern methods are needed to prevent the pathogens which are responsible for CKD. Summary: With the help of various engineering techniques one can easily design controllers to assess as well as to prevent CKD permanently. The easiest procedure for identifying CKD is to screen people. Current recommendations suggest screening of individuals with diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and family history of kidney diseases in the course of routine health check-ups. Much work has been done in medical sciences in the area of CKD, but there is still scope for further research. From the recent studies, advanced tools such as data mining, etc., are considered to be the current trend in the area of CKD. Key Message: From this article, the authors propose that patients who are already affected by urinary tract infection, acute kidney injury, and a family history of CKD should be examined via some basic tests for the presence of CKD.
Long-Term Follow-Up Changes of Central Choroidal Thickness Thinning after Repeated Anti-VEGF Therapy Injections in Patients with Central Retinal Vein Occlusion-Related Macular Edema with Systemic Hypertension
Authors: Kida Teruyo , Osuka Shou , Fukumoto Masanori , Sato Takaki , Harino Seiyo , Oku Hidehiro , Ikeda Tsunehiko
Published: December 2019

Purpose: We investigated the thinning of central choroidal thickness (CCT) following intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs to treat central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO)-related macular edema in patients with and without systemic hypertension (HT) to assess the influence of repeated anti-VEGF therapy and HT on the choroid in CRVO eyes. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study involving 27 patients with CRVO-related macular edema from January 2014 to July 2017, with follow-ups exceeding 18 months. Visual acuity (VA), central retinal thickness (CRT), and CCT were evaluated before and after initial anti-VEGF drug treatment during follow-up. Results: The mean follow-up period was 35.2 months. Seventeen (63.0%) patients had HT. At 1 month after treatment, VA had improved in 21 (77.8%) patients, and CRT had decreased in 25 (92.6%). At the final visit, 22 (81.5%) showed improved VA, 19 (70.4%) had resolved macular edema, and the CCT had gradually become thinner with additional drug injections in all the patients. Furthermore, the mean CCT in HT patients (209.0 µm) was significantly lower than in non-HT patients (256.1 µm), and the mean injections were 7.8 and 5.3, respectively (p = 0.2067). Conclusion: The CCTs were thinner in eyes with HT than in eyes without HT both before and after the repeated anti-VEGF injections.
Hair Cortisol Concentrations in Overweight and Obese Children and Adolescents
Authors: Genitsaridi Sofia-Maria , Karampatsou Sofia , Papageorgiou Ifigeneia , Mantzou Aimilia , Papathanasiou Chryssanthi , Kassari Penio , Paltoglou George , Kourkouti Christie , Charmandari Evangelia
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Obesity in childhood and adolescence is associated with complications that resemble those seen in hypercortisolism. Hair cortisol concentration (HCC) in children is a reliable marker of long-term endogenous cortisol concentrations. We determined HCC in overweight and obese children and adolescents, and examined the relation between HCC and other cardiometabolic parameters. Methods: Three hundred children and adolescents aged 4–18 years (mean age ± standard error of the mean [SEM]: 10.49 ± 0.15 years; 140 [46.7%] obese, 94 [31.3%] overweight, 66 [22%] of normal BMI; 76 males, 224 females) were studied prospectively. Blood samples for determination of hematological, biochemical, and endocrinologic parameters were obtained. Systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was determined. Scalp hair samples were collected from the posterior vertex, and HCC was measured using an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. Results: Obese subjects had significantly higher SBP, DBP, waist and hip circumferences, waist-to-hip ratio, waist-to-height ratio, ALT, γ-GT, triglycerides, apolipoprotein-B, insulin, and HbA1C concentrations than overweight and normal-BMI subjects. HCC did not differ significantly among the three groups of subjects (mean ± SEM: 8.74 ± 0.43 vs. 8.88 ± 0.52 vs. 9.33 ± 0.72, all p > 0.05). No significant association was noted between HCC and cardiometabolic or body composition parameters. HCC was significantly higher in prepubertal girls than prepubertal boys (9.45 ± 0.38 vs. 7.35 ± 0.39, p = 0.007). Conclusion: In our study, overweight and obesity was not associated with elevated HCC. Furthermore, no association was found between HCC with cardiometabolic parameters and fat mass. Further studies are required to delineate the association between overweight/obesity and HCC.