bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunosuppression in Cows following Intramammary Infusion of Mycoplasma bovis
Authors: Gondaira Satoshi , Nishi Koji , Tanaka Takahiro , Yamamoto Takashi , Nebu Takanori , Watanabe Reina , Konnai Satoru , Hayashi Tomohito , Kiku Yoshio , Okamoto Mariko , Matsuda Kazuya , Koiwa Masateru , Iwano Hidetomo , Nagahata Hajime , Higuchi Hidetoshi
Published: December 2019

Mycoplasma bovis
is a destructive pathogen that causes large economic losses in rearing cattle for beef and dairy worldwide.
M. bovis
causes suppression of and evades the host immune response; however, the mechanisms of host immune function involved in
M. bovis
mastitis have not been elucidated. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the characteristics of the bovine immune response to mycoplasmal mastitis. We evaluated the responsiveness of the bovine mammary gland following infusion of
M. bovis
.
The Staphylococcus aureus Cystine Transporters TcyABC and TcyP Facilitate Nutrient Sulfur Acquisition during Infection
Authors: Lensmire Joshua M. , Dodson Jack P. , Hsueh Brian Y. , Wischer Michael R. , Delekta Phillip C. , Shook John C. , Ottosen Elizabeth N. , Kies Paige J. , Ravi Janani , Hammer Neal D.
Published: December 2019

Staphylococcus aureus
is a significant human pathogen due to its capacity to cause a multitude of diseases. As such,
S. aureus
efficiently pillages vital nutrients from the host; however, the molecular mechanisms that support sulfur acquisition during infection have not been established. One of the most abundant extracellular sulfur-containing metabolites within the host is cysteine, which acts as the major redox buffer in the blood by transitioning between reduced and oxidized (cystine) forms.
Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 (PCSK9) Is Not Induced in Artificial Human Inflammation and Is Not Correlated with Inflammatory Response
Authors: Heinzl Matthias Wolfgang , Resl Michael , Klammer Carmen , Egger Margot , Dieplinger Benjamin , Clodi Martin
Published: December 2019

Lipoproteins, as well as proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), have been shown to play a key role in the innate immune response. However, knowledge about the role and kinetics of PCSK9 in human inflammation is currently insufficient. This study aimed to investigate the interaction between inflammation and lipid metabolism, including the possible role of PCSK9. A single-blinded, placebo-controlled cross-over study using the human endotoxin model was performed.
Mapping of a Novel H3-Specific Broadly Neutralizing Monoclonal Antibody Targeting the Hemagglutinin Globular Head Isolated from an Elite Influenza Virus-Immunized Donor Exhibiting Serological Breadth
Authors: Qiu Yu , Stegalkina Svetlana , Zhang Jianxin , Boudanova Ekaterina , Park Anna , Zhou Yanfeng , Prabakaran Ponraj , Pougatcheva Svetlana , Ustyugova Irina V. , Vogel Thorsten U. , Mundle Sophia T. , Oomen Ray , Delagrave Simon , Ross Ted M. , Kleanthous Harry , Qiu Huawei
Published: December 2019

Influenza viruses escape immunity through continuous antigenic changes that occur predominantly on the viral hemagglutinin (HA). Induction of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) targeting conserved epitopes following vaccination is a goal of universal influenza vaccines and advantageous in protecting hosts against virus evolution and antigenic drift. To date, most of the discovered bnAbs bind either to conserved sites in the stem region or to the sialic acid-binding pocket. Generally, antibodies targeting the stem region offer broader breadth with low potency, while antibodies targeting the sialic acid-binding pocket cover narrower breadth but usually have higher potency. In this study, we identified a novel neutralizing epitope in the head region recognized by a broadly neutralizing human antibody against a broad range of H3N2 with high potency. This epitope may provide insights for future universal vaccine design.
Draft Genome Sequences of
Bacillus
sp. Strains RM1(2019), RM2(2019), RM9(2019), RM11(2019), and RM15(2019), Isolated from Temperate Soils in the Hudson River Valley of New York
Authors: Mendoza Rachael A. , Jain Swapan S. , Perron Gabriel G.
Published: December 2019

We report the draft genome sequences of five novel
Bacillus
strains isolated from temperate soils in Annandale-on-Hudson, NY. Strains RM1(2019), RM9(2019), and RM15(2019) were identified as
Bacillus toyonensis
, while RM11(2019) was identified as
Bacillus thuringiensis
. The draft genome of strain RM2(2019) was unclassified and likely represents a new species.
Whole-Genome Sequence of Bacillus megaterium Strain SGAir0080, Isolated from an Indoor Air Sample
Authors: Kalsi Namrata , Uchida Akira , Purbojati Rikky W. , Houghton James N. I. , Chénard Caroline , Wong Anthony , Clare Megan E. , Kushwaha Kavita K. , Putra Alexander , Gaultier Nicolas E. , Premkrishnan Balakrishnan N. V. , Heinle Cassie E. , Vettath Vineeth Kodengil , Drautz-Moses Daniela I. , Junqueira Ana Carolina M. , Schuster Stephan C.
Published: December 2019

Bacillus megaterium
strain SGAir0080 was isolated from a tropical air sample in Singapore. Its genome was assembled using single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing and MiSeq reads. It has one chromosome of 5.06 Mbp and seven plasmids (average length, 62.8 kbp). It possesses 5,339 protein-coding genes, 130 tRNAs, and 35 rRNAs.
Genome Sequence of the Yeast
Saprochaete ingens
CBS 517.90
Authors: Hodorová Viktória , Lichancová Hana , Zubenko Stanislav , Sienkiewicz Karolina , Penir Sarah Mae U. , Afanasyev Philipp , Boceck Dominic , Bonnin Sarah , Hakobyan Siras , Smyczynska Urszula , Zhivkoplias Erik , Zlatohurska Maryna , Tralle Eugeniusz , Frolova Alina , Pryszcz Leszek P. , Brejová Broňa , Vinař Tomáš , Nosek Jozef
Published: December 2019

Chromosome-scale genome assembly of the yeast
Saprochaete ingens
CBS 517.90 was determined by a combination of technologies producing short (HiSeq X; Illumina) and long (MinION; Oxford Nanopore Technologies) reads. The 21.2-Mbp genome sequence has a GC content of 36.9% and codes for 6,475 predicted proteins.
Congenital chloride diarrhoea
Authors: Sajid Aisha , Riaz Sohaib , Riaz Aqsa , Safdar Bisma
Published: December 2019

Congenital chloride diarrhoea is one of the rare causes of diarrhoea during infancy and it is infrequently reported throughout the world. It is an autosomal recessive condition which is more prevalent in Poland, Finland, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait while rarely reported in Pakistan. Our patient was 7.5-month-old baby boy who presented with diarrhoea since neonatal period. He had consanguineous parents. On examination, baby had distended abdomen, hypotonia and hyporeflexia. Investigations revealed hypochloremic hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis. Urinary electrolytes were normal. Stool electrolytes revealed increased stool chloride excretion that confirmed our diagnosis of congenital chloride diarrhoea. Patient was treated with intravenous fluids and electrolyte replacement, followed by oral potassium and sodium replacement. He was also started on butyrate, cholestyramine and proton-pump inhibitors. He started gaining weight during his hospital admission and is being followed up in clinic.
Conjoined twins presenting with foot deformities: insights to management and challenges
Authors: Kanwat Himanshu , Banjara Roshan , Sampath Kumar Venkatesan , Majeed Abdul
Published: December 2019

Conjoined twins are a rare outcome of conception associated with numerous anomalies involving multiple organ systems. Musculoskeletal abnormalities like vertebral anomalies, sacral agenesis, foot deformities and hip dysplasia have been described in literature. We describe two cases of pyopagus twins with congenital talipes equinovarus and congenital vertical talus deformity which have not been described previously in this type of conjoined twins. The orthopaedist should look actively for such deformities in this patient population and be wary of the difficulties associated with their management.
Involuntary movements in an adolescent: what are the causes?
Authors: Vaz Ana Sofia , Brito Nádia , Moura Lurdes , Fernandes Agostinho
Published: December 2019

Involuntary movements can be a troublesome condition and represent a real challenge for emergency doctors, particularly for patients of paediatric age. We report a case of a 17-year-old boy with painful involuntary movements mostly affecting his mouth and lower limbs, but also the trunk. After reviewing the patient’s history, it was revealed that the adolescent had had acute alcohol intoxication with severe acute agitation and therefore was given a single dose of 10 mg intravenous haloperidol. The concealment of the recent event posed serious difficulties in reaching the diagnosis. When the diagnosis of haloperidol-induced acute dystonia was made, 3 mg of intravenous biperiden was promptly administered with complete clinical resolution in 15 min.
Changes in neovascular activity following fixed dosing with an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agent over 52 weeks in the phase III VIEW 1 and VIEW 2 studies
Authors: Moshfeghi Darius M , Thompson Desmond , Saroj Namrata
Published: December 2019

Background/aims

To understand changes in disease activity as assessed by leakage and retinal fluid status in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) receiving fixed dosing with an anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agent.

Methods

In the phase III VIEW 1 (
NCT00509795
) and VIEW 2 (
NCT00637377
) studies, eyes with nAMD were treated with intravitreal aflibercept or ranibizumab. Independent, masked reading centres determined the presence/absence of leakage (fluorescein angiography) and retinal fluid (optical coherence tomography) at baseline, week 24 and week 52. In this integrated, post hoc analysis of the VIEW studies, the relationship between leakage/fluid status and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was assessed. The impact of baseline lesion type (predominantly classic (PC), minimally classic (MC), occult) was also evaluated. Data from all treatment groups were pooled.

Results

2373 eyes were included in this analysis. At baseline, 95.4% of eyes presented with both leakage and fluid. By week 52, leakage and fluid were present in 16.0% of eyes. Mean BCVA gains at week 52 were numerically greater in eyes without leakage and fluid versus eyes with both leakage and fluid (10.3 vs 9.2 letters). At week 52, 11.6%, 15.3% and 20.1% of eyes with PC, MC and occult lesions, respectively, had both leakage and fluid present.

Conclusion

In this post hoc analysis, fixed dosing with an anti-VEGF agent over 52 weeks eliminated disease activity (absence of both leakage and fluid) in most eyes. The effect of anti-VEGF treatment on leakage/fluid status favoured PC versus occult lesions.
How delayed and non-adherent treatment contribute to onward transmission of malaria: a modelling study
Authors: Challenger Joseph D , Gonçalves Bronner P , Bradley John , Bruxvoort Katia , Tiono Alfred B , Drakeley Chris , Bousema Teun , Ghani Azra C , Okell Lucy C
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Artemether-lumefantrine (AL) is the most widely-recommended treatment for uncomplicatedPlasmodium falciparummalaria. Its efficacy has been extensively assessed in clinical trials. In routine healthcare settings, however, its effectiveness can be diminished by delayed access to treatment and poor adherence. As well as affecting clinical outcomes, these factors can lead to increased transmission, which is the focus of this study.

Methods

We extend a within-host model ofP. falciparumto include gametocytes, the parasite forms responsible for onward transmission. The model includes a pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic model of AL, calibrated against both immature and mature gametocytes using individual-level patient data, to estimate the impact that delayed access and imperfect adherence to treatment can have on onward transmission of the parasite to mosquitoes.

Results

Using survey data from seven African countries to determine the time taken to acquire antimalarials following fever increased our estimates of mean total infectivity of a malaria episode by up to 1.5-fold, compared with patients treated after 24 hours. Realistic adherence behaviour, based on data from a monitored cohort in Tanzania, increased the contribution to transmission by 2.2 to 2.4-fold, compared with a perfectly-adherent cohort. This was driven largely by increased rates of treatment failure leading to chronic infection, rather than prolonged gametocytaemia in patients who have slower, but still successful, clearance of parasites after imperfect adherence to treatment. Our model estimated that the mean infectivity of untreated infections was 29–51 times higher than that of treated infections (assuming perfect drug adherence), underlining the importance of improving treatment coverage.

Conclusion

Using mathematical modelling, we quantify how delayed treatment and non-adherent treatment can increase transmission compared with prompt effective treatment. We also highlight that transmission from the large proportion of infections which never receive treatment is substantially higher than those treated.
Association between neck circumference and cardiometabolic disease in Chinese adults: a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Fu Wenning , Zou Li , Yin Xiaoxu , Wu Jiang , Zhang Shengchao , Mao Jing , Cao Shiyi , Li Wenzhen , Gan Yong , Yan Shijiao , Gong Yanhong , Lu Zuxun
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Several studies have indicated that neck circumference (NC) was associated with cardiometabolic disease in some Western countries. However, there are limited data regarding this association among Chinese adults.

Design

A community-based cross-sectional study.

Setting

A multistage-stratified random cluster survey was conducted in Xixiang Street, Bao’an District of Shenzhen in southeast China.

Participants

This study included 4000 participants (1605 men and 2395 women) with a mean age of 56.0±9.8 years.

Main outcome measures

Categorical data were reported as percentage and continuous data were reported as mean±SD. Receiver operating characteristic analysis and logistic regression analysis were used to evaluate the association of NC with cardiometabolic disease.

Results

The mean NC values were 35.50±4.23 cm for men and 32.32±3.59 cm for women. After adjusting for body mass index and waist circumference, NC was significantly associated with the risk of hypertension (OR: 1.42 in women), decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels (OR: 1.27 in men; OR: 1.12 in women), high triglyceride (TG) levels (OR: 1.54 in women) and diabetes (OR: 1.41 in men; OR: 1.37 in women). Among men, the optimal NC cut-off values were 38.10 cm for identifying hypertension, 32.32 cm for decreased HDL levels, 36.6 cm for high TG levels and 36.6 cm for diabetes. Among women, the optimal NC cut-off values were 32.35 cm for identifying hypertension, 33.40 cm for decreased HDL levels, 32.90 cm for high TG levels and 33.40 cm for diabetes.

Conclusions

NC was significantly associated with cardiometabolic disease in Chinese population. Although further studies are needed to confirm the optimal cut-off values, evaluating NC may be useful for predicting cardiometabolic disease risk during clinical assessments.
Associations between socioeconomic position and changes in children’s screen-viewing between ages 6 and 9: a longitudinal study
Authors: Salway Ruth E , Emm-Collison Lydia , Sebire Simon , Thompson Janice L , Jago Russ
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To explore socioeconomic differences in screen-viewing at ages 6 and 9, and how these are related to different media uses.

Design

Longitudinal cohort study.

Setting

Children recruited from 57 state-funded primary schools in Southwest England, UK.

Participants

1299 children at ages 5–6, 1223 children at ages 8–9, including 685 children at both time points.

Outcome measures

Children’s total screen-viewing time (parent-reported) and time spent using multiple screen devices simultaneously (multiscreen viewing), for weekdays and weekends.

Methods

Negative binomial regression was used to model associations between socioeconomic variables (highest household education and area deprivation) and total screen-viewing at age 6 and the change from age 6 to 9. We additionally adjusted for child characteristics, parental influences and media devices in the home. Multiscreen viewing was analysed separately.

Results

Household education was associated with children’s screen-viewing at age 6 with lower screen-viewing in higher socioeconomic groups (21%–27% less in households with a Degree or Higher Degree, compared with General Certificate of Secondary Education: GCSE). These differences were explained by the presence of games consoles, parental limits on screen-viewing and average parent screen-viewing. Between ages 6 and 9, there were larger increases in screen-viewing for children from A level and Degree households (13% and 6%, respectively, in the week) and a decrease in Higher Degree households (16%), compared with GCSE households. Differences by household education remained when adjusting for media devices and parental factors.

Conclusions

Children’s screen-viewing patterns differ by parental education with higher levels of viewing among children living in households with lower educational qualifications. These differences are already present at age 6, and continue at age 9. Strategies to manage child sedentary time, and particularly screen-viewing, may need to take account of the socioeconomic differences and target strategies to specific groups.
A prospective, open-label, interventional study protocol to evaluate treatment efficacy of nivolumab based on serum-soluble PD-L1 concentration for patients with metastatic and unresectable renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Bando Yukari , Hinata Nobuyuki , Omori Takashi , Fujisawa Masato
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Nivolumab has been proven to prolong overall survival as a second-line therapy for patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in a phase III clinical trial. However, versatile biomarkers have not been established to predict the efficacy of nivolumab against target disease.

Methods and analysis

After registration, screening test and serum-soluble programmed cell death 1-ligand 1 (sPD-L1) measurement will be performed by using the ELISA; patients will be grouped into high sPD-L1 or low sPD-L1 groups. Nivolumab (240 mg every 2 weeks by intravenous drip infusion) will be administered to each participant. For this prospective study, statistical power calculation indicated that 48 participants with metastatic or unresectable RCC are needed to assess the efficacy of this method. The participants must be at the age of at least 20 years at the time of informed consent and require second-line therapy after failure of first-line therapy or discontinuation due to adverse effects. All data will be collected in our institution. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival, and secondary endpoints are overall survival and objective response rate. In this protocol, we will examine sPD-L1 as a promising predictive marker.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol was approved by the Kobe University Clinical Research Ethical Committee (C180067). Findings of this study will be widely disseminated through conference presentations, reports, factsheets and academic publications; further generalisation will also be discussed.

Trial registration number

UMIN000027873.
Anticancer drug prices and clinical outcomes: a cross-sectional study in Italy
Authors: Trotta Francesco , Mayer Flavia , Barone-Adesi Francesco , Esposito Immacolata , Punreddy Ranadhir , Da Cas Roberto , Traversa Giuseppe , Perrone Francesco , Martini Nello , Gyawali Bishal , Addis Antonio
Published: December 2019

Objective

To investigate whether the prices of new anticancer drugs correlated with their relative benefit despite negotiation.

Design

Retrospective cross-sectional study correlating new anticancer drugs prices with clinical outcomes.

Setting

We did a retrospective cross-sectional study including all new anticancer drugs approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) (2010–2016) and reimbursed in Italy.

Main outcome(s) and measure(s)

Information on clinical outcomes—in terms of median overall survival (OS), median progression-free survival (PFS) and objective response rate (ORR)—was extracted from pivotal trials as reported in the European Public Assessment Reports available on the EMA website. Cost of a full course treatment was estimated on negotiated official and discounted prices. Regression coefficients β, their levels of significance p and the coefficients of determination R2 were estimated adjusting by tumour type.

Results

Overall, 30 new anticancer drugs (with 35 indications) were available for analysis. Where data on OS were available, we observed no correlation between the improvement in median OS (in weeks) and negotiated price (R2=0.067, n=16 drugs for 17 indications). When the clinical outcomes were expressed as improvements in the median PFS or ORR, 25 drugs (29 indications) were available for the analysis, and again, there was no correlation with prices (R2=0.004 and 0.006, respectively).

Conclusions and relevance

Our results suggest that the prices of anticancer drugs in Italy do not reflect their therapeutic benefit. Drug price negotiations, which is mandatory by law in Italy, do not seem to ensure that prices correlate with clinical benefits provided by the cancer drugs. These results call for further efforts to establish the standard determinants of drug prices available at the time of negotiation. These findings need to be confirmed in other countries where price negotiations are in place. Moreover, further investigations may verify whether outcome data obtained after drug marketing would improve the correlation between prices and therapeutic benefit.
Logic model framework for considering the inputs, processes and outcomes of a healthcare organisation–research partnership
Authors: Tabriz Amir Alishahi , Flocke Susan A , Shires Deirdre , Dyer Karen E , Schreiber Michelle , Elston Lafata Jennifer
Published: December 2019

Background

The published literature provides few insights regarding how to develop or consider the effects of knowledge co-production partnerships in the context of delivery system science.

Objective

To describe how a healthcare organisation–university-based research partnership was developed and used to design, develop and implement a practice-integrated decision support tool for patients with a physician recommendation for colorectal cancer screening.

Design

Instrumental case study.

Participants

Data were ascertained from project documentation records and semistructured questionnaires sent to 16 healthcare organisation leaders and staff, research investigators and research staff members.

Results

Using a logic model framework, we organised the key inputs, processes and outcomes of a healthcare organisation–university-based research partnership. In addition to pragmatic researchers, partnership inputs included a healthcare organisation with a supportive practice environment and an executive-level project sponsor, a mid-level manager to serve as the organisational champion and continual access to organisational employees with relevant technical, policy and system/process knowledge. During programme design and implementation, partnership processes included using project team meetings, standing organisational meetings and one-on-one consultancies to provide platforms for shared learning and problem solving. Decision-making responsibility was shared between the healthcare organisation and research team. We discuss the short-term outcomes of the partnership, including how the partnership affected the current research team’s knowledge and health system initiatives.

Conclusion

Using a logic model framework, we have described how a healthcare organisation–university-based research team partnership was developed. Others interested in developing, implementing and evaluating knowledge co-production partnerships in the context of delivery system science projects can use the experiences to consider ways to develop, implement and evaluate similar co-production partnerships.
Virtual patient technology to educate pharmacists and pharmacy students on patient communication: a systematic review
Authors: Richardson Charlotte Lucy , White Simon , Chapman Stephen
Published: December 2019

Background

Virtual patients (VPs) are a sub-type of healthcare simulation that have been underutilised in health education. Their use is increasing, but applications are varied, as are designs, definitions and evaluations. Previous reviews have been broad, spanning multiple professions not accounting for design differences.

Objectives

The objective was to undertake a systematic narrative review to establish and evaluate VP use in pharmacy. This included VPs that were used to develop or contribute to communication or counselling skills in pharmacy undergraduates, pre-registration pharmacists and qualified pharmacists.

Study selection

Eight studies were identified using EBSCO and were quality assessed. The eligibility criteria did not discriminate between study design or outcomes but focused on the design and purpose of the VP. All the included studies used different VP applications and outcomes.

Findings

Four themes were identified from the studies: knowledge and skills, confidence, engagement with learning, and satisfaction. Results favoured the VPs but not all studies demonstrated this statistically due to the methods. VP potential and usability are advantageous, but technological problems can limit use. VPs can help transition knowledge to practice.

Conclusions

VPs are an additional valuable resource to develop communication and counselling skills for pharmacy students; use in other pharmacy populations could not be established. Individual applications require evaluation to demonstrate value due to different designs and technologies; quality standards may help to contribute to standardised development and implementation in varied professions. Many studies are small scale without robust findings; consequently, further quality research is required. This should focus on implementation and user perspectives.
Experimental measurement of monotonic and cyclic lateral resistance of risers and pipelines in Gulf of Mexico clays
Authors: Al-Janabi Husham A. , Aubeny Charles P. , Chen Jinbo , Luo Meng
Published: December 2019

The location near the touchdown zone of a steel catenary riser at the seabed is a primary “hot spot” for fatigue assessment, with seabed stiffness having a major influence on the predicted fatigue life. This paper presents the results of laboratory model tests in the lateral direction with the motivation to appropriately capture the fundamental mechanism of soil interaction with the pipeline or riser in the lateral direction. The objectives of this study are to evaluate (i) the fundamental mechanism of soil interaction with the pipeline or riser in the lateral direction subjected to monotonic and cyclic loading, (ii) the evolution of lateral resistance with different (small to large) displacement amplitudes, (iii) the degradation of lateral resistance while increasing the number of cycles, and (iv) the recovery of the soil strength with time. The primary findings from the tests are that (i) the lateral resistance on the riser–pipeline drops sharply after trench formation, (ii) the lateral resistance across the trench approaches zero and reaches a steady state at a large number of cycles, (iii) the shape of trenches depends on the lateral displacement amplitude and the initial penetration depth, and (iv) some regain in strength occurs after a period for consolidation.
Deadman anchoring design for cable logging: a new approach
Authors: Belart Francisca , Leshchinsky Ben , Wimer Jeff
Published: December 2019

Cable yarding is still a common system for transporting wood in steep terrain. In the Pacific Northwest, United States, and other regions of high-productivity forestry, reduced rotation ages for harvest have resulted in a lack of large stumps to serve as anchors for cable-yarding systems. One of the most common anchoring alternatives to stumps is buried deadman anchors. Conventional design of this system has been limited to simplified charts that account for soil resistance, as well as both shear and bending resistance, of the deadman, which is typically a buried log. However, these charts are limited to larger deadman anchors of only Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco), which are likely not readily available in modern operations. Thus, revised, simplified design charts are proposed that consider a variety of different soil failure mechanisms, as well as several different wood types and bending conditions. An updated approach provides a quantitative perspective towards safe anchoring in modern forest operations.
Time for a paradigm shift in the use of plant genetic resources
Authors: Belzile François , Abed Amina , Torkamaneh Davoud
Published: December 2019

For all major crops, sizeable genebanks are maintained across the world and serve as repositories of genetic diversity and key sources of novel traits used in breeding. Although molecular markers have been used to characterize diversity in a broad sense, the most common approach to exploring these resources has been through phenotypic characterization of subsets of these large collections. With the advent of affordable large-scale genotyping technologies and the increasing body of candidate genes for traits of interest, we argue here that it is time for a paradigm shift in the way that we explore and exploit these considerable and highly useful resources. By combining dense genotypic information in and around candidate genes, it is possible to classify accessions based on their haplotype, something approximating the actual alleles at these genes of interest.
Is Remnant Preservation in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Superior to the Standard Technique? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wang Han , Liu Ziming , Li Yuwan , Peng Yihang , Xu Wei , Hu Ning , Huang Wei
Published: December 2019

Purpose.This is a systematic review and meta-analysis of current evidence that aims at comparing the clinical outcomes of remnant-preserving anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) and standard ACLR.Methods.A systematic review of randomized controlled studies and cohort studies comparing remnant-preserving ACLR with standard ACLR with a minimum level of evidence of II was performed. Studies were included by strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Extracted data were summarized as preoperative conditions, postoperative clinical outcomes, and postoperative complications. When feasible, meta-analysis was performed with RevMan5.3 software. Study methodological quality was evaluated with the modified Coleman methodology score (CMS).Results.Eleven studies (n = 466 remnant-preserving andn = 536 standard) met the inclusion criteria. The mean modified CMS for all included studies was 85.8 (range: 77–92 on a 100-point scale). In total, 466 patients underwent remnant-preserving ACLR by 3 different procedures: standard ACLR plus tibial remnant tensioning (n = 283), selective-bundle augmentation (n = 49), and standard ACLR plus tibial remnant sparing (n = 134). Remnant-preserving ACLR provided a superior outcome of postoperative knee anterior stability (WMD = −0.42, 95% CI, −0.66, −0.17;P<0.01) and Lysholm score (WMD = 2.01, 95% CI, 0.53 to 3.50;P<0.01). There was no significant difference between the two groups with respect to second-look arthroscopy (OR = 1.38, 95% CI, 0.53, 3.62;P=0.51), complications (OR = 1.24 95% CI, 0.76, 2.02;P=0.39), International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subject scores, IKDC grades, Lachman test, and pivot-shift test.Summary/conclusion.Remnant-preserving ACLR promotes similar graft synovial coverage and revascularization to standard ACLR. Equivalent or superior postoperative knee stability and clinical scores were observed for remnant-preserving ACLR compared with standard ACLR. No significant difference in the total complication rate between the groups was evident.
A Novel Control Method for Rotary Blood Pumps as Left Ventricular Assist Device Utilizing Aortic Valve State Detection
Authors: Petukhov Dmitry , Korn Leonie , Walter Marian , Telyshev Dmitry
Published: December 2019

A novel control method for rotary blood pumps is proposed relying on two different objectives: regulation of pump flow in accordance with desired value and the maintenance of partial support with an open aortic valve by the variation of pump speed. The estimation of pump flow and detection of aortic valve state was performed with mathematical models describing the first- and second generation of Sputnik rotary blood pumps. The control method was validated using a cardiovascular system model. The state of the aortic valve was detected with a mean accuracy of 91% for Sputnik 1 and 96.2% for Sputnik 2 when contractility, heart rate, and systemic vascular resistance was changed. In silico results for both pumps showed that the proposed control method can achieve the desired pump flow level and maintain the open state of the aortic valve by periodically switching between two objectives under contractility, heart rate, and systemic vascular resistance changes. The proposed method showed its potential for safe operation without adverse events and for the improvement of chances for myocardial recovery.
Women’s Autonomy Decision Making Power on Postpartum Modern Contraceptive Use and Associated Factors in North West Ethiopia
Authors: Yonas Tadesse Samrawit , Emiru Amanu Aragaw , Tafere Tadese Ejigu , Asresie Melash Belachew
Published: December 2019

Background. Most postpartum women (95%) do not want pregnancy within 24 months after birth, however, 70% of them do not use modern contraceptives. In Ethiopia postpartum modern contraceptive use is low. Evidences show that women’s autonomy within the household is the most important thing in modern contraceptive use. Yet, there is dearth of information in Ethiopian context. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess women’s autonomy on modern contraceptive use and its associated factors among women who attended their children immunization service. Methods. Facility-based cross-sectional study was carried out from May 5 to Jone15, 2017 in sekota town and its surroundings among 415 women who attended immunization service for their children. Participants were selected by using a systematic sampling technique. The data were collected through face-to-face interviews using pre-tested structured questionnaires. The data were entered into epi.info version7 and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Both descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed. A P-value less than or equal to 0.05 at 95% confidence interval was set to test statistical significance. Result. The proportion of women’s decision making power on postpartum modern contraceptive use was 77.3%. Being counseled on postpartum family planning (2.29, 95% CI: 1.27, 5.71), discussed on postpartum family planning with their husbands (AOR = 14.62, 95% CI: 6.52, 32.75), and had the index child within one year after previous birth (AOR = 7.98, 95% CI: 2.52, 30.65) were found positively associated with women’s autonomous decision making power on postpartum modern contraceptive use. In addition, those women who knew that pregnancy could happen during the postpartum period (AOR = 6.53, 95% CI: 3.2, 14.12) were more autonomous in decision to use postpartum contraception. Conclusion. The proportion of women’s autonomous decision making power on postpartum modern contraceptive use was low. Those women who were counseled on postpartum family planning, discussed with partners, and those who knew that pregnancy could happen during the postpartum period had higher odds of autonomous decision making power. Therefore, strengthening counseling, educating on postpartum family planning, and encouraging women to discuss postpartum family planning with their husbands may improve women’s power.
Overexpression of MiR-183/96/182 Triggers Retina-Like Fate in Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (hBMSCs) in Culture
Authors: Mahmoudian-Sani Mohammad-Reza , Forouzanfar Fatemeh , Asgharzade Samira , Ghorbani Nilufar
Published: December 2019

Retinal degeneration is considered as a condition ensued by different blinding disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, which can cause loss of photoreceptor cells and also lead to significant vision deficiencies. Although there is no efficient treatment in this domain, transplantation of stem cells has been regarded as a therapeutic approach for retinal degeneration. Thus, the purpose of this study was to analyze the potential of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) to differentiate into photoreceptor cells via transfection of microRNA (miRNA) in vitro for regenerative medicine purposes. To this end, miR-183/96/182 cluster was transfected into hBMSCs; then, qRT-PCR was performed to measure the expression levels of miR-183/96/182 cluster and some retina-specific neuronal genes such as OTX2, NRL, PKCα, and recoverin. CRX and rhodopsin (RHO) levels were also measured through qRT-PCR and immunocytochemistry, and subsequently, cellular change morphology was detected. The findings showed no changes in the morphology of the given cells, and the expression of the neuroretinal genes such as OTX2, NRL, and PKCα. Moreover, recoverin was upregulated upon miR-183/-96/-182 overexpression in cultured hBMSCs. Ectopic overexpression of the miR-183 cluster could further increase the expression of CRX and RHO at the messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels. Furthermore, the data indicated that the miR-183 cluster could serve as a crucial function in photoreceptor cell differentiation. In fact, miRNAs could be assumed as potential targets to exploit silent neuronal differentiation. Ultimately, it was suggested that in vitro overexpression of miR-183 cluster could trigger reprogramming of the hBMSCs to retinal neuron fate, especially photoreceptor cells.
A Case Series: Adjunctive Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder in the Geriatric Population with the Methylphenidate Patch
Authors: Patel Kamal , Collins Ashley , Holroyd Suzanne , Benja Lamyaithong Andre
Published: December 2019

Major depressive disorder can affect anyone regardless of age. In geriatric populations depression is often overlooked and untreated, which subsequently may lead to serious consequences. Almost one third of elderly patients with depression fail to respond to initial treatment and require adjunctive treatment. Methylphenidate is one such option, which is seldom used in the geriatric population to treat depression despite reports of improvement in symptoms of mood within a brief period of time. Methylphenidate is also available in a patch formulation that can be used in patient’s nonadherent to the medication, which is reported to be an issue in as many as 75% of the geriatric population. Here we present three geriatric patients who were diagnosed with recurrent severe major depressive disorder without psychotic features. The three patients responded well with methylphenidate as adjunctive treatment to conventional antidepressants.
A Tumultuous Course of Exogenous Testosterone by a Bodybuilder Causing a Catastrophic Hypercoagulable State in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Lee Kevin , Toraby Sophia , Cotterman Robert , Oriowo Babatunde , Fish John
Published: December 2019

Present literature demonstrates an equivocal relationship between testosterone and thrombogenicity. Herein, we describe a case in which a patient used an unspecified amount and duration of exogenous testosterone injections, subsequently developing thrombotic events in his: right radial artery, right iliac artery, superficial femoral artery, splenic artery and a bilateral lower lobe pulmonary embolism. As a result, clinicians should consider exogenous testosterone use as a potential risk factor when the etiology of a patient’s thrombotic events are not clear. We also completed a literature review of the molecular mechanisms in which testosterone can increase the clot burden through an increases human platelet thromboxane A2 receptor density and an increase in erythropoiesis.
General Improvements of Heuristic Algorithms for Low Complexity DOA Estimation
Authors: Chen Haihua , Li Haoran , Yang Mingyang , Xiang Changbo , Suzuki Masakiyo
Published: December 2019

Heuristic algorithms are considered to be effective approaches for super-resolution DOA estimations such as Deterministic Maximum Likelihood (DML), Stochastic Maximum Likelihood (SML), and Weighted Subspace Fitting (WSF) which are involved in nonlinear multi-dimensional optimization. Traditional heuristic algorithms usually need a large number of particles and iteration times. As a result, the computational complexity is still a bit high, which prevents the application of these super-resolution techniques in real systems. To reduce the computational complexity of heuristic algorithms for these super-resolution techniques of DOA, this paper proposes three general improvements of heuristic algorithms, i.e., the optimization of the initialization space, the optimization of evolutionary strategies, and the usage of parallel computing techniques. Simulation results show that the computational complexity can be greatly reduced while these improvements are used.
Efficient Production of Methyl Oleate Using a Biomass-Based Solid Polymeric Catalyst with High Acid Density
Authors: Wang Anping , Zhang Heng , Li Hu , Yang Song
Published: December 2019

Biomass-based polymers are eco-friendly, nontoxic and biodegradable materials. In this work, in order to prepare green, low-cost and high-efficient catalysts under mild conditions, we chose biomass-based chitosan as raw material and prepared a new solid acidic catalyst by an acid functionalization method. FT-IR, XRD, SEM, TGA, BET, neutralization titration and other analytical methods were used to characterize the catalyst. The results showed that CS-SO3H morphology exhibited a sphere of about 10 μm diameter, and the acid density was as high as 3.81 mmol/g. The catalyst exhibits good catalytic activity in the esterification of oleic acid and methanol, which is a model reaction of the pre-esterification process in the preparation of biodiesel from feedstocks with high acid values. Under the optimum reaction conditions (15/1 methanol/oleic acid mole ratio and 3 wt% catalyst dosage at 75°C for 3 h), the yield of methyl oleate can reach 95.7%. Even if the mass of oleic acid in the reactant increased to 20 g, solid acid showed good catalytic performance, and the yield of methyl oleate was 94.4%. After four times of reuse, the yield of the catalyst can still reach 85.7%, which indicates that the catalyst has good catalytic activity and stability, and has potential application prospects.
Experimental Evaluation of the Seismic Response of Skewed Bridges with Emphasis on Poundings between Girder and Abutments
Authors: Yang Ziqi , Kun Chern , Chouw Nawawi
Published: December 2019

Observations from past earthquake events indicate that skewed bridges are seismically vulnerable due to induced horizontal in‐plane rotations of the girder. To date, however, very limited experimental research has been done on the pounding behaviour of skewed bridges. In this study, shake table tests were performed on a single‐frame bridge model with adjacent abutments subjected to uniform ground excitations. Bridges with different skew angles, i.e., 0°, 30°, and 45°, were considered. The pounding behaviour was observed using a pair of pounding and measuring heads. The results reveal that poundings could indeed influence the responses of skewed bridges in the longitudinal and transverse directions differently and thus affect the development of the girder rotations. Ignoring pounding effects, the 30° skewed bridges could experience more girder rotations than the 45° skewed bridges. With pounding, the bridges with a large skew angle could suffer more opening girder displacements than straight bridges.
Transient Central Diabetes Insipidus after Discontinuation of Vasopressin
Authors: Carman Nathaniel , Kay Carl , Petersen Abigail , Kravchenko Maria , Tate Joshua
Published: December 2019

Central diabetes insipidus (CDI) is an uncommon condition resulting from lack of vasopressin secretion from the posterior pituitary gland typically caused by some form of destruction of the gland. Here we present a case of transient CDI after discontinuation of vasopressin used for septic shock without evidence of overt pituitary damage. Serum sodium concentration peaked at 160 mmol/L in the setting of polyuria within days of vasopressin discontinuation without identified alternative etiologies. Sodium levels and urine output normalized with administration of desmopressin with continued stability after desmopressin was discontinued. This is one of few reported cases of diabetes insipidus occurring after discontinuation of vasopressin and the rapid and profound response to desmopressin in this case proves a central etiology. This case allows for speculation into predisposing risk factors for this phenomenon including preexisting neurological disease.
A Contract Coordination Model of Dual-Channel Delivery between UAVs and Couriers Considering the Uncertainty of Delivery for Last Mile
Authors: Chen Ming-fei , Liu Yan-qiu , Song Yang , Sun Qi
Published: December 2019

For the traditional last-kilometer delivery, commodities are sent from the distribution center to the distribution transfer station, which are then delivered by the couriers from the distribution transfer station to the consumers. This single distribution channel cannot prioritize services for consumers closer to the distribution center, resulting in a waste of distribution resources. To deal with the last-kilometer delivery problem, this paper attempts to build a dual-channel distribution system consisting of UAVs and couriers. And the impact of the market allocation proportion on the expected profit of the last mile service through the two different distribution channels is discussed and analyzed. It is proved that the improved revenue sharing contract can realize the coordination of the dual-channel distribution between UAVs and the couriers. The numerical examples verify the effectiveness of the model and contract coordination. According to the research, first, with the increase in the uncertainties of the delivery quantity, the profit of the UAV channel shows a downward trend, while the profit of the courier channel remains basically the same. This is because the labor cost of the courier channel is relatively stable. Second, with the increase in the market allocation proportion of the last-kilometer delivery, the optimal delivery quantity of the UAV channel and the optimal order quantity of the courier channel are both increasing, while the overall profit of the last-kilometer is first rising and then decreasing. Third, the expected profit of the UAV channel and the courier channel can achieve Pareto improvement through the improved revenue sharing contract.
Sporadic Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma with Paraneoplastic Cushing Syndrome
Authors: Pivovarova Aleksandra I. , Patrick Stephanie , Reddy Punuru J.
Published: December 2019

Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) is a rare form of neoplasm affecting the thyroid gland. This neuroendocrine tumor is capable of releasing active substances causing systemic manifestation in the form of flushing, diarrhea, and uncommonly, Ectopic Cushing’s syndrome (ECS). MTC can be hereditary as a part of multiple endocrine neoplasm type 2 syndrome (MEN2) or arise sporadically. We report a case of a 74-year-old female presenting with chronic diarrhea, in whom diagnosis of sporadic MTC was delayed due to previous history of gastrointestinal (GI) disturbances. The patient developed liver metastases yielding ACTH dependent Cushing’s Syndrome leading to abnormal clinical presentation and laboratory values driven by elevated cortisol level. Metastatic MTC should be considered in patients presenting with chronic diarrhea and weakness unexplained by other GI related causes.