bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing Efficient Discrete Simulations on Multi-Core and GPU Architectures
Authors: Cagigas-Muñiz Daniel , Diaz-del-Rio Fernando , López-Torres M.R. , Jiménez-Morales F. , Guisado J.L.
Published: December 2019

In this paper we show how to efficiently implement parallel discrete simulations on Multi-Core and GPU architectures through a real example of application: a cellular automata model of laser dynamics. We describe the techniques employed to build and optimize the implementations using OpenMP and CUDA frameworks. We have evaluated the performance on two different hardware platforms that represent different target market segments: high-end platforms for scientific computing, using an Intel Xeon Platinum 8259CL server with48cores and also an NVIDIA Tesla6V100 GPU, both running on Amazon Web Server (AWS) Cloud, and on a consumer-oriented platform, using an Intel Core i9 9900k CPU and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 TI GPU. Performance results are compared and analysed in detail. We show that excellent performance and scalability can be obtained in both platforms, and we extract some important issues that imply a performance degradation for them. We also found that current Multi-Core CPUs with large core numbers can bring a performance very near to that of GPUs, even similar in some cases.
Long Term Homogeneity, Trend and Change-Point Analysis of Rainfall in the Arid District of Ananthapuramu, Andhra Pradesh State, India
Authors: Patakamuri Sandeep Kumar , Muthiah Krishnaveni , Sridhar Venkataramana
Published: December 2019

Daily rainfall data was collected for the arid district of Ananthapuramu, Andhra Pradesh state, India from 1981 to 2016 at the sub-district level and aggregated to monthly, annual and seasonal rainfall totals and the number of rainy days. The objective of this study is to evaluate the homogeneity, trend, and trend change points in the rainfall data. After quality checks and homogeneity analysis, a total of 27 rain gauge locations were considered for trend analysis. A serial correlation test was applied to all the time series to identify serially independent series. Non-Parametric Mann-Kendall test and Spearman’s rank correlation tests were applied to serially independent series. The magnitude of the trend was calculated using Sen’s slope method. For the data influenced by serial correlation, various modified versions of Mann-Kendall tests (Pre-Whitening, Trend Free Pre-Whitening, Bias Corrected Pre-Whitening and two variants of Variance Correction Approaches) were applied. A significant increasing summer rainfall trend is observed in 6 out of 27 stations. Significant decreasing trends are observed at two stations in the south-west monsoon season and at two stations in the north-east monsoon season. To identify the trend change-points in the time series, distribution-free Cumulative SUM test and sequential Mann-Kendall tests were applied. Two open-source library packages were developed in R language namely, ‘modifiedmk’ and ‘trendchange’ to implement the statistical tests mentioned in this paper. The study will benefit water resource management, drought mitigation, socio-economic development and sustainable agricultural planning in the region.
A Modified Gravitational Explanation of the Dynamic Origin of the Stars' Rotation and Revolution
Authors: Fan Wei
Published: December 2019

Because Newton's gravity and Einstein's general theory of relativity are macroscopic gravitational theories, therefore, this paper attempts to establish a set of quantum gravity theory of the microscopic expression of Newton's and Einstein's theory of gravity to make up for the shortcomings of the existing macro-gravity theory at the micro level, and further develop the macroscopic gravity theory into the microscopic field. Based on the cognition of the field theory model, from the general assumption, space-time is further regarded as an ideal fluid, from the perspective of the distribution of ideal fluid density, this paper derives the Newton's universal gravitational equation and Einstein's general relativity equation. On the micro level, the gravitational field is further interpreted as a gradient field of space-time density; the Newtonian potential is further interpreted as the density of an object at the micro level; gravity is further interpreted as the potential pressure(space-time pressure) exhibited by the gradient of the density of the object at the micro level; flection space-time is further interpreted as the embodiment of the gradient distribution of the ideal fluid (space-time) density at the micro level. Based on a modified gravitational model, it explains the dynamics of the stars' rotation and revolution.
Development of Continuum Robot Arm and Gripper for Harvesting Cherry Tomatoes
Authors: Yeshmukhametov Azamat , Koganezawa Koichi , Buribayev Zholdas , Amirgaliyev Yedilkhan , Yamamoto Yoshio
Published: December 2019

Designing and development of agricultural robot is always a challenging issue, because of robot intends to work an unstructured environment and at the same time, it should be safe for the surrounded plants. Therefore, traditional robots cannot meet the high demands of modern challenges, such as working in confined and unstructured workspaces. Based on current issues, we developed a new tomato harvesting wire-driven discrete continuum robot arm with a flexible backbone structure for working in confined and extremely constrained spaces. Moreover, we optimized a tomato detaching process by using newly designed gripper with passive stem cutting function. Moreover, by designing the robot we also developed ripe tomato recognition by using machine learning. This paper explains the proposed continuum robot structure, gripper design, and development of tomato recognition system.
Computational Improvement of Small-Molecule Inhibitors of Bacillus anthracis Protective Antigen Activation through Isostere-Based Substitutions
Authors: Silva Sandra V. R. L. , Silva Pedro J.
Published: December 2019

There has recently been interest in the development of small-molecule inhibitors of the oligomerization of Bacillus anthracis protective antigen for therapeutic use. Some of the proposed lead compounds have, however, unfavorable solubility in aqueous medium, which prevents their clinical use. In this computational work, we have designed several hundreds of derivatives with progressively higher hydrosolubility and tested their ability to dock the relevant binding cavity. The highest-ranking docking hits were then subjected to 125 ns-long simulations to ascertain the stability of the binding modes. Several of the potential candidates performed quite disappointingly , but two molecules showed very stable binding modes throughout the complete simulations. Besides the identification of these two promising leads, these molecular dynamics simulations allowed the discovery of several insights that shall prove useful in the further improvement of these candidate towards higher potency and stability.
Intermediate Filaments as Potential Target for Cancer 2 Treatment
Authors: Strouhalova Katerina , Přechová Magdalena , Gandalovičová Aneta , Brábek Jan , Gregor Martin , Rosel Daniel
Published: December 2019

Intermediate filaments constitute the third component of the cellular skeleton. Unlike actin and microtubule cytoskeletons, the intermediate filaments are composed of wide variety of structurally related proteins showing distinct expression patterns in tissues and cell types. Changes in expression patterns of intermediate filaments are often associated with cancer progression, in particular with phenotypes leading to increased cellular migration and invasion. In this review we will describe the role of vimentin intermediate filaments in cancer cell migration, cell adhesion structures, and metastasis formation. The potential for targeting vimentin in cancer treatment and the development of drugs targeting vimentin will be reviewed.
Polysubstance Use: A Broader Understanding of Substance Use During the Opioid Crisis
Authors: Cicero Theodore J. , Ellis Matthew S. , Kasper Zachary A.
Published: December 2019

Objectives. To understand important changes in co-occurring opioid and nonopioid drug use (i.e., polysubstance use) within the opioid epidemic in the United States.

Methods. We analyzed survey data on the past month co-use of prescription and illicit opioids and 12 nonopioid psychoactive drug classes from a national sample of 15 741 persons entering treatment of opioid use disorder.

Results. Past-month illicit opioid use increased from 44.8% in 2011 to 70.1% in 2018, while the use of prescription opioids alone dropped from 55.2% to 29.9%, yet overall remained high (94.5% to 85.2%). Past-month use of at least 1 nonopioid drug occurred in nearly all participants (> 90%), with significant increases in methamphetamine (+85%) and decreases across nonopioid prescription drug classes (range: −40% to –68%).

Conclusions. Viewing opioid trends in a “silo” ignores the fact not only that polysubstance use is ubiquitous among those with opioid use disorder but also that significant changes in polysubstance use should be monitored alongside opioid trends.

Public Health Implications. Treatment, prevention, and policymaking must address not only the supply and demand of a singular drug class but also the global nature of substance use overall.
Contralateral Obturator Nerve to Femoral Nerve Transfer for Restoration of Knee Extension After Acute Flaccid Myelitis
Authors: Doi Kazuteru , Sem Sei Haw , Hattori Yasunori , Sakamoto Sotetsu , Hayashi Kota , Maruyama Akio
Published: December 2019

Case:

A 7-year-old boy presented with left femoral and obturator nerves (ONs) palsy after an asthmatic attack with a viral prodrome, and his right lower limb was unaffected. He was diagnosed with acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) after positive spinal magnetic resonance imaging findings. After contralateral ON to femoral nerve transfer (CONFNT), his left quadriceps was reinnervated at 5.5 months, full knee extension was recovered at 14 months, and good functional outcomes were achieved at 31 months.

Conclusions:

This first clinical report on CONFNT demonstrated a feasible good alternative in treating young patients with AFM with unilateral L2-L4 palsy and short duration of deficit.
Staged Reconstruction for Type IV Tibial Deficiency (Distal Tibiofibular Diastasis)
Authors: Ernat Justin J. , Wimberly Lane , Samchukov Mikhail L. , Cherkaskin Alexander M. , Birch John G.
Published: December 2019

Case:

Congenital tibiofibular diastasis is a relatively rare form of limb deficiency, characterized by distal tibial tapering, absent ankle mortise, equinovarus foot deformity, and variable lower leg shortening. Treatment described has ranged from various forms of foot centralization with or without leg lengthening to amputation. We describe 2 cases treated in childhood by staged foot centralization by soft-tissue distraction, distal tibiotalar fusion, tibial lengthening, and subsequent limb length discrepancy equalization. At skeletal maturity, both patients ambulated independently without aid.

Conclusions:

Staged reconstruction with foot centralization and distal tibiotalar fusion is an option for carefully selected patients with tibiofibular diastasis who refuse foot ablation.
E4An Ultrastructural Study by Transmission Electron Microscope of Exocrine Pancreatic Cells in Diabetic Rats Treated with Herbal Combination
Authors: Hadi Maysaa Adil
Published: December 2019

The current study was designed to investigate the alterations in the ultrastructure of orgenelles and cellular activity of exocrine pancreatic acini of experimentally induced-diabetic rats and to assess the usefulness of herbal combination supplementation in improving the ultrastructure and cellular activity of exocrine pancreas. The number of albino male rats used were 24 which divided into equally 4 groups; group I: control group, group II: alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus (single intraperitoneal dose of alloxan 120 mg/kg for 3 days), group III: herbal combination treatment composed from the extracts of fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum-graecum), black cumin (Nigella sativa) seeds, rhizomes of ginger (Zingiber officinale), leaves of olive (Olea europeae), and seeds of ash (Fraxinus ssp). Each rat given 2.5 ml (0.5 ml from each five mixed plant extracts used) for 2 months. group IV: diabetes was induced as group II and treated with herbal combination as group III for 2 months. The processing for investigating by transmission electron microscopy were carried out for all pancreata taken from all groups. There was significant reduction (p<0.05) in mean of FBG levels in diabetic rats treated with herbal combination (group IV) as compared to diabetic control and could revert FBG to normal value compared to negative control The results of examination of semithin and ultrathin sections in diabetic rats revealed many degenerative changes in the exocrine pancreatic tissue in comparison to control group. These degenerative changes can be summarized as disturbances in the arrangement of pancreatic acinar cells and decreased secretory granules in addition to the vacuolation of cytoplasm and pyknotic nuclei were observed in semithin sections. Moreover, degenerated nuclei, vacuolation of cytoplasm, fragmentation of rough endoplasm reticulum and degranulation of the most pancreatic acinar cells were noticed in ultrathin sections. In contrast, the acinar cells of group administrated with herbal combination only had normal ultrastructure, cellular activity, and nuclei, well-developed rough endoplasmic reticulum with abundant zymogen granules. Also, most of the acinar cells retrieved their normal ultrastructure and cellular activity in diabetic group treated with herbal combination and herbal combination could decrease most of the degenerative changes caused by alloxan-induced diabetes. In conclusion, the daily supplementation with this herbal combination to diabetic rat for 2 months could achieving promising effects due to its cytoprotective influence and showed the ability to decreased degenerative damage in the ultrastructure and cellular activity of exocrine pancreatic acini in type 2 diabetic rats.
Effect of Refractive Index on Photon Natural Mass and Wavelength
Authors: Et al. Al- Kinani
Published: December 2019

In this article it is proved experimentally that the photon is a particle that has mass and constant wavelength by explaining the effect of refractive index on the wavelength and the natural mass of photon. It is very difficult to measure the mass of photon, a simple and easy process was proposed in this paper to calculate the mass length of photon in vacuum (Y) and in medium (Y*), by measuring the length of laser beam in air (Lair) and in medium (Lmed). A new method was postulated to calculate refractive index by using these relations (n = Y*/Y), and (n = Lmed / Lair) which supposed a new theory of light.
A identidade semântica da preposição EM
Authors: Rocha Elizabeth Gonçalves Lima
Published: December 2019

Propomo-nos, neste trabalho, a discutir aspectos relacionados à identidade semântica da preposição EM, a fim de descrever, para além de sua variação cotextual, o fenômeno que se encontra em seu fundamento. O trabalho organiza-se em três partes. Inicialmente, apresentamos certos estudos gramaticais que descrevem o semantismo da preposição EM na construção das representações espaciais. Na segunda parte deste trabalho, expomos os princípios que orientam nossa investigação, qual seja, o referencial teórico-metodológico da Teoria das Operações Enunciativas. Por fim, na terceira parte, mostramos que a (im)possiblidade de certas representações espaciais no uso do EM deve-se a uma propriedade intrínseca a esse item que revela uma forma abstrata extraída das análises dos dados linguísticos.
ESTUDO DE COMPATIBILIDADE E ADEQUAÇÃO DE EDIFICAÇÕES DA REGIÃO NORTE DE PALMAS – TO, AO CÓDIGO DE OBRAS POR MEIO DE IMAGEAMENTO/ Compatibility and adequacy study of buildings in the northern region of Palmas – TO
Authors: Feitosa Thaiana Brunes , Parente Dênis Cardoso
Published: December 2019

Inicialmente, os VANTs foram utilizados para fins militares, no entanto, seu uso está tornando-se cada vez mais atraente. Tal potencial de uso está diretamente relacionado ao baixo custo, à alta mobilidade, à segurança oferecida, proximidade com o objeto fotografado e à velocidade de aquisição e transferência de dados, possibilidade de monitoramento ao longo dos anos através das imagens, podendo ser utilizado em situações em que uma inspeção tripulada não seja possível.
O presente trabalho tem como objetivo analisar a confiabilidade da utilização de Veículo Aéreo não Tripulado (VANT) na compatibilização e adequação de edificações da região norte de Palmas – TO ao código de obras. Como ferramenta foi utilizado um VANT, softwares para plano de voo e processamento de imagens. A área de estudo escolhida foi a quadra 407 Norte, localizada na região norte da cidade de Palmas - TO. Com metodologia que permitisse atestar a potencialidade dos produtos gerados, foram feitos sobrevoo e medições em campo. Através das imagens aéreas obtidas, foi gerado um ortomosaico. A partir do ortomosaico, foram identificadas diretrizes pré-estabelecidas e posteriormente comparadas com as diretrizes estabelecidas pelo código de obras municipal.  Os resultados encontrados mostram que as imagens aéreas obtidas e o ortomosaico gerado podem auxiliar de forma confiável, rápida e segura no processo de compatibilização e adequação das edificações, atestando que a plataforma VANT e os sensores passíveis de serem acoplados a elas podem servir adequadamente como tecnologia no estudo proposto. Mesmo apresentando elevado potencial e exatidão no levantamento dos quantitativos das superfícies.
NOTA EDITORIAL: REVISTA GEONORTE, V.10, N.36, JUL-DEZ, 2019
Authors: Silva Neto João Cândido André da
Published: December 2019

É com grande satisfação que publicamos o novo número da REVISTA GEONORTE, V.10, N.36, JUL-DEZ, 2019.
O atual número da REVISTA GEONORTE é dedicada à memória do Professor Doutor José Aldemir de Oliveira, por sua contribuição e dedicação à Geografia da Amazônia e do Brasil. O professor José Aldemir construiu uma carreira grandiosa no Departamento de Geografia da Universidade Federal do Amazonas, como líder do Núcleo de Estudos e Pesquisas das Cidades na Amazônia (Nepecab), teve papel fundamental na implantação da Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Amazonas (FAPEAM), representando de modo muito competente a Geografia do Amazonas por onde passou. Nos últimos meses ele teve uma atuação importante na articulação internacional e reformulação do comitê científico da Revista Geonorte. Sentiremos muito sua falta, mas sua presença sempre estará marcada na Geonorte, seja em seus textos publicados ou na concepção do que a Revista Geonorte se tornará. Professor, muito obrigado por tudo.
Cuttings Transport Modeling—Part 2: Dimensional Analysis and Scaling
Authors: Busch Alexander , Werner Benjamin , Johansen Stein T.
Published: December 2019

As a follow-up to part one of this series (Busch et al. 2018a), we present a holistic dimensional analysis (DA) for the problem of cuttings transport in an annular wellbore element. We account for the non-Newtonian or, more precisely, shear-thinning and yield behavior of the drilling fluid by using non-Newtonian scaling concepts for generalized Newtonian fluids (GNFs) available in the literature.

We first perform a nondimensional analysis for the Herschel-Bulkley (HB) material function (also known as the yield power-law [YPL] model) and establish a respective space of nondimensional numbers (Π-space) as well as a generic corresponding nondimensional cuttings-transport-process relationship. In a second step and to ease the derivations, we focus on the power-law (PL) material function and introduce a convenient reference shear rate that allows the evaluation of the reference viscosity in the established nondimensional quantities. Finally, on the basis of the established Π-space for the PL fluid, we generalize the specific PL case to the currently recommended HB material function by means of a local PL approximation, following the concept of Metzner and Reed (1955). Furthermore, we provide the results for both pipe and annuli because the former is often used in solid-transport studies.

Compared to the Newtonian case, the obtained Π-spaces are increased by one or two nondimensional numbers accounting for the shear-thinning behavior or yield and shear-thinning behavior, respectively. It follows that when scaling cuttings transport processes, it is not entirely accurate to, for example, represent a Bingham fluid with a PL fluid because these exhibit different rheological behaviors. In addition, we show that the established process relationship must be nonmonomial, in contrast to the monomial forms used in various cuttings transport studies. Furthermore, we demonstrate that typical nondimensional numbers such as Reynolds, Shields, Archimedes, and Froude numbers arise from the analyses and we discuss some relevant differences.

The presented Π-spaces might be used for scaling of process parameters as well as for quantitative comparison of results of one cuttings transport study with those of another. In addition, they could be used to scale wellbore parameters to a laboratory setup or vice versa. Finally, the established process relationship provides a framework for cuttings transport correlations by fitting comprehensive experimental data sets and could potentially be used to improve real-time models.
18 F- FDG PET/CT-derived parameters predict clinical stage and prognosis of esophageal cancer.
Authors: Mantziari Styliani , Pomoni Anastasia , Prior John O , Winiker Michael , Allemann Pierre , Demartines Nicolas , Schäfer Markus
Published: December 2019

Background Although 18 F- FDG PET/CT is validated in baseline workup of esophageal cancer to detect distant metastases, it remains underused in assessing local staging and biology of the primary tumor. This study aimed to evaluate the association between 18 F- FDG PET/CT-derived parameters of esophageal cancer, and its clinico-pathological features and prognosis.Methods All patients (n=86) with esophageal adenocarcinoma or squamous cell cancer operated between 2005-2014 were analyzed. Linear regression was used to identify clinico-pathologic features of esophageal cancer associated with the tumor’s maximal Standardized Uptake Value (SUV max ), Total Lesion Glycolysis (TLG) and Metabolic Tumor Volume (MTV). ROC curve analysis was performed to precise the optimal cutoff of each variable associated with a locally advanced (cT3/4) status, long-term survival and recurrence. Kaplan Meier curves and Cox regression were used for survival analyses.Results High baseline SUV max was associated with cT3/4 status and middle-third tumor location, TLG with a cT3/4 and cN+ status, whereas MTV only with active smoking. A cT3/4 status was significantly predicted by a SUV max >8.25g/mL (p<0.001), TLG>41.7 (p<0.001) and MTV>10.70 cm 3 (p<0.01) whereas a SUV max > 12.7 g/mL was associated with an early tumor recurrence and a poor disease-free survival (median 13 versus 56 months, p=0.030), particularly in squamous cell cancer.Conclusions Baseline 18 F- FDG PET/CT has a high predictive value of preoperative cT stage, as its parameters SUV max , TLG and MTV can predict a locally advanced tumor with high accuracy. A SUV max > 12.7 g/mL may herald early tumor recurrence and poor disease-free survival.
Evaluation of the updated “Candida score” with sepsis 3.0 criteria in critically ill patients
Authors: Li Dongkai , Zhang Jiahui , Han Wen , Bai Guangxu , Cheng Wei , Cui Na
Published: December 2019

BackgroundThe Candida score proposed in 2009 was calculated on the definition of “severe sepsis”, which was removed in the Sepsis 3.0 definition. This study investigated the clinical relevance of Candida score with the updated sepsis 3.0 definition (CS-3.0) instead of severe sepsis (CS-2009) in the new admitted critically ill patients.MethodWe performed a retrospective analysis on a single‑center public database. All patients with ICU stay≥72 hours were included in this study. The Candida score was calculated based on the data collected on ICU admission. The incidence of invasive candidiasis was determined and its relationship with the CS-2009 and CS-3.0 was studied.ResultsA total of 17,666 patients were identified after screening 58,976 hospital admissions, and 436 cases (2.5%) were diagnosed with invasive candidiasis. In the infection group, the number of patients who met the Sepsis 3.0 criteria was greater than the number of patients with severe sepsis (81.2% vs. 78.4%, p<0.005). The area under curve of the CS-2009 was 0.789 (95% CI 0.765-0.813) and the CS-3.0 was 0.804 (95% CI 0.782-0.827). ConclusionOur study confirmed the clinical relevance and comparative superiority of the updated Candida score model, using the Sepsis 3.0 definition, compared with the classic sepsis/severe sepsis model, in assessment of critically ill patients. Considering the clinical importance of organ dysfunction in ICI, the sepsis 3.0 should be used as the basis for prediction of invasive candidiasis.
Early sepsis markers in patients admitted to intensive care unit with moderate to severe diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Blanchard Florian , Charbit Judith , Meersch Guillaume Van Der , Popoff Benjamin , Picod Adrien , Cohen Regis , Chemouni Frank , Gaudry Stephane , Bihan Helene , Cohen Yves
Published: December 2019

Background Bacterial infections are frequent triggers for diabetic ketoacidosis. In this context, delayed antibiotic treatment is associated with increase morbidity and mortality. Unnecessary administration of antimicrobial therapy might however also negatively impact the prognosis. The usefulness of traditional sepsis markers in diabetic ketoacidosis has not been assessed. Thus, we sought to investigate diagnostic performances of clinical and biological sepsis markers during diabetic ketoacidosis. Methods Patients admitted in a single intensive care unit for diabetic ketoacidosis (defined by pH < 7.3 and glycaemia > 13.75mmol/L) were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical and biological markers were evaluated to determine their ability to identify infected from non-infected patients. Results Between 2011 and 2018, among 134 episodes of diabetic ketoacidosis, 102 were included (91 patients). Twenty out of 102 were infected. At admission, procalcitonin (median: 3.58ng/mL vs 0.52ng/mL, p<0.001) and presence of fever, defined as temperature > 38°C, (25% vs 2.5%, p=0.007) were different between infected patients and non-infected patients in both univariate and multivariate analysis. Whole blood count, neutrophils count and presence of hypothermia were not different between both groups. The diagnostic performance analysis for procalcitonin revealed an area under the curve of 0.87 with an optimal cutoff of 1.44ng/mL leading to a sensibility of 0.90 and a specificity of 0.76. Combining procalcitonin and presence of fever allowed distinguish infected from non-infected patients. Indeed, all patients with procalcitonin level of more than 1.44ng/mL and fever were infected patients. The presence of one of these 2 markers was associated with 46% of infected patients. No afebrile patient with procalcitonin level less than 1.44 ng/mL was infected. Conclusion At admission, combining procalcitonin with a threshold above 1.44 ng/mL and presence of fever may be of value to distinguish infected from non-infected patients admitted in intensive care unit for diabetes ketoacidosis.
Prevalence of HCV among people who inject drugs in Brussels – A Respondent Driven Sampling Survey
Authors: Baelen Luk Van , Plettinckx Els , Antoine Jérôme , Gremeaux Lies
Published: December 2019

Background: In Belgium, people who inject drugs (PWID) are at a high risk of being infected by hepatitis C (HCV) as injecting drug use is the main mode for transmission of HCV in Europe. Estimates about the number of people living with HCV in Belgium are rare and even less is known about the prevalence of HCV among PWID. Method: Between 1 February 2019 and 26 April 2019, PWID and high risk opiate users (HROU) were recruited in Brussels through respondent driven sampling (RDS). They were invited to a questionnaire and underwent a rapid HCV-test. Results: 253 respondents participated in the study, of which 168 were PWID and 238 were HROU, with 153 respondents belonging to both categories. The overall unweighted sample average for HCV antibodies was 41.1%. The weighted population estimates were 43.7% (95%CI: 30.6% - 56.8%) for RDS-II and 43.4% (95%CI: 28.9% - 58.0%) for RDS-SS. Conclusions: This prevalence is lower than the prevalence estimates reported elsewhere in Europe. However, the data still suggest that serious efforts are needed to reach the goal set by the WHO to reduce HCV by 2030 with 90%.
Evaluating the performance of Temporal Pattern Discovery: New application using Statins and Rhabdomyolysis in OMOP databases
Authors: Lavallee M , Yu T , Evans L , Hemelrijck Mieke Van , Bosco C , Golozar A , Asiimwe A
Published: December 2019

Introduction Temporal Pattern Discovery (TPD) is a method of signal detection using electronic healthcare databases, serving as an alternative to spontaneous reporting of adverse drug events. Here, we aimed to replicate and optimise a TPD approach previously used to assess temporal signals of statins with rhabdomyolysis (in The Health Improvement Network (THIN) database) by using the OHDSI tools designed for OMOP data sources.Methods We used data from the Truven MarketScan US Commercial Claims and the Commercial Claims and Encounters (CCAE). Using an extension of the OHDSI ICTemporalPatternDiscovery package, we ran positive and negative controls through four analytical settings and calculated sensitivity, specificity, bias and AUC to assess performance.Results Similar to previous findings, we noted an increase in the information component (IC) for simvastatin and rhabdomyolysis following initial exposure and throughout the surveillance window. For example, the change in IC was 0.266 for the surveillance period of 1-30 days as compared to the control period of -180 to -1days. Our modification of the existing OHDSI software allowed for faster queries and more efficient generation of chronographs.Conclusion Our OMOP replication matched the results of the original THIN study, only simvastatin had a signal. The TPD method is a useful signal detection tool that provides a single statistic on temporal association and a graphical depiction of the temporal pattern of the drug outcome combination. It remains unclear if the method works well for rare ADRs, but it has been shown to be a useful risk identification tool for longitudinal observational databases. Future work should compare the performance of TPD with other pharmacoepidemiology methods and mining techniques of signal detection. In addition, it would be worth investigating the relative TPD performance characteristics using a variety of observational data sources.
FADS2 Variants are Associated with Omega-6 Metabolic Conversion in Serbian Adults in a cross-sectional study – Implications for Precision Nutrition Practice
Authors: Zec Manja , Stojković Ljiljana , Zeković Milica , Pokimica Biljana , Živković Maja , Stanković Aleksandra , Glibetic Maria
Published: December 2019

Background High omega-6/omega-3 intake ratio in westernized world is of concern. FADS genes variants are associated with plasma long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) in diverse ethnicities and might modulate plasma omega-6/omega-3 net balance. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the relationships between FADS genetic variants with dietary fat and macronutrient intake, plasma phospholipid fatty acid profile, estimated plasma desaturase activity and cardiometabolic risk factors, in a sample of Serbian subjects.Methods Non-smoking adult volunteers (>28 years), free of acute or chronic disease were included. Food and nutrient data were compiled through 24h recalls for non-consecutive days. Plasma phospholipid fatty acid content was assessed by gas-chromatography. Selection of FADS2 variants (rs174593, rs174616 and rs174576) was based on its positional and functional aspect, and evidence-based data. Genotyping was performed by using Real-Time PCR. Estimated desaturase activities were calculated as conversion rates towards LC-PUFA in omega-6 pathway. Multivariable-adjusted general linear were applied and the contribution of minor alleles to the variability of physiological parameters was analyzed by multivariable hierarchical multiple regression models.Results Sample included 34 men and 54 women, mean age=40±7years, with 70% being overweight (BMI>25). Minor allele frequencies were 33%, 36% and 51% for rs174593, rs174576 and rs174616, respectively, in line with other populations. None of the three variants was associated with food or nutrient intake, serum lipids, or obesity (p>0.05). Irrespective of gender, age, total daily polyunsaturated/saturated fatty acid intake and obesity, rs174593, rs174616 and rs174576 were associated with lower arachidonic acid (AA, C20:4 n-6, p<0.001) and estimated desaturase-5 activity (p<0.001) in plasma phospholipids. The rs174576 associations with AA withstood multiple testing and additional adjustments for other variants.Conclusion We observed inverse associations between FADS2 variants and plasma phospholipid AA but not omega-3 fatty acids in a sample of Serbian adults, and larger cohorts should confirm the associations. In our study FADS2 rs174576 exhibited the strongest associations, and future gene-dietary studies with varying omega-6/omega-3 intake should validate its suitability for precision nutrition strategies aimed at PUFA recommendations in Serbian population.Trial registration This is a cross-sectional study, forming part of larger intervention study registered at ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT02800967.
Biofilm formation, antimicrobial susceptibility and virulence genes of Uropathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from clinical isolates in Uganda
Authors: Katongole Paul , Nalubega Fatuma , Florence Najjuka Christine , Asiimwe Benon , Andia Irene
Published: December 2019

Introduction: Uropathogenic E. coli is the leading cause of Urinary tract infections (UTIs), contributing to 80-90% of all community-acquired and 30-50% of all hospital-acquired UTIs. Biofilm forming Uropathogenic E. coli are associated with persistent and chronic inflammation leading to complicated and or recurrent UTIs. Biofilms provide an environment for poor antibiotic penetration and horizontal transfer of virulence genes which favors the development of Multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO). Understanding biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance determinants of Uropathogenic E. coli strains will provide insight into the development of treatment options for biofilm-associated UTIs. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of biofilm formation among Uropathogenic E. coli clinical isolates, their relationship with antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and Urovirulence genes. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried in the Clinical Microbiology and Molecular biology laboratories at the Department of Medical Microbiology, Makerere University College of Health Sciences. We randomly selected 200 Uropathogenic E. coli clinical isolates among the stored isolates collected between January 2018 and December 2018 that had significant bacteriuria (>105 CFU). All isolates were subjected to biofilm detection using the Congo Red Agar method and Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby disk diffusion method. The isolates were later subjected PCR for the detection of Urovirulence genes namely; Pap, Fim, Sfa, Afa, Hly and Cnf, using commercially designed primers.Results: In this study, 62.5% (125/200) were positive biofilm formers and 78% (156/200) of these were multi-drug resistant(MDR). The isolates were most resistant to Trimethoprim sulphamethoxazole and Amoxicillin (93%) followed by gentamycin (87%) and the least was imipenem (0.5%). Fim was the most prevalent Urovirulence gene (53.5%) followed by Pap (21%), Sfa (13%), Afa (8%), Cnf (5.5%) and Hyl (0%).Conclusions: We demonstrate a high prevalence of biofilm-forming Uropathogenic E. coli strains that are highly associated with the MDR phenotype. We recommend routine surveillance of antimicrobial resistance and biofilm formation to understand the antibiotics suitable in the management of biofilm-associated UTIs.
The association of lipopolysaccharide and inflammatory markers with severe dengue infection
Authors: Shyamali N.L Ajantha , Mahaputuna Sameera D. , Gomes Laksiri , Wijewickrama Ananda , Ogg Graham , Malavige Gathsaurie
Published: December 2019

Background Although serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was shown to associate with development of severe dengue, the reasons for high LPS and its subsequent involvement in disease pathogenesis are not known. Methods: We assessed LPS, lipopolysaccharide binding protein (LBP), CRP, IL-18, procalcitonin in patients with acute dengue fever (DF=129) and dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF=64) and correlated these observations with the presence of comorbid illnesses, concurrent bacteraemia and clinical disease severity. Results: LPS levels were significantly (p=0.01) higher in patients with DHF, compared to those with DF. 45 (70%) of those with DHF and 63 (49%) of those with DF had detectable LPS and therefore, presence of LPS was significantly associated with DHF (p=0.005, OR=2.48, 95% CI: 1.29 to 4.64). Those with metabolic diseases, 22/29 (75.9%) and those with atopic diseases 17/22 (77.3%) were significantly more likely to have detectable LPS (p=0.025, OR=2.9, 95% CI- 1.17 to 7.59) and (p=0.039, OR=3.06, 95% CI-1.07 to 7.81) respectively, than others. LPS, LBP and CRP levels were high at the febrile phase, before onset of plasma leakage and reduced towards to the critical phase. The CRP levels were significantly higher (p=0.03) in early illness (≤3 days of illness) in those who progressed to develop DHF when compared to those who developed DF. Those who had detectable serum LPS also had a significantly higher CRP (p=0.01). Although there was no difference in procalcitonin (PCT) levels in patients with DF and DHF, the PCT levels were significantly higher in those who had detectable serum LPS (p=0.02). Conclusions: LPS levels were higher in patients with DHF and associated with high levels of other inflammatory markers. Since LPS levels were highest during early infection and were significantly more likely to be present in those with comorbid illnesses, the possible role of LPS in disease pathogenesis, should be further investigated.
Increased Interleukin-35 Suppresses Peripheral CD14+ Monocytes Function in Patients with Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Xing Haijian , Tian Gang
Published: December 2019

Background: Interleukin-35 (IL-35) is a newly identified IL-12 cytokine family member, which regulates the activity of immune cells in infectious diseases and autoimmune disorders. However, the regulatory function of IL-35 in Kawasaki disease is not well elucidated.Methods: Thirty-three patients with Kawasaki disease and seventeen healthy controls were studied. Peripheral IL-35 concentration was measured by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. CD14+ monocytes were purified, and mRNA expression of IL-35 receptor (IL-12Rβ2 and gp130) was semi-quantified by real-time polymerase chain reaction. CD14+ monocytes were stimulated with recombinant IL-35. The modulatory role of IL-35 treated CD14+ monocytes to naïve CD4+ T cell activation was investigated by flow cytometry. The influence of IL-35 to cytotoxicity of CD14+ monocytes was assessed by measuring target cell death, cytokine and granzyme secretion.Results: Plasma IL-35 concentration was elevated in patients with Kawasaki disease. There was no significant differences of either IL-12Rβ2 or gp130 mRNA expression in CD14+ monocytes between Kawasaki disease patients and controls. IL-35 suppressed CD14+ monocytes induced naïve CD4+ T cell activation in Kawasaki disease, and this process required direct cell-to-cell contact. IL-35 also inhibited tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and granzyme B secretion by CD14+ monocytes from patients with Kawasaki disease, however, only granzyme B was responsible for the cytotoxicity of CD14+ monocytes.Conclusions: IL-35 played an important immunosuppressive role to CD14+ monocytes function in Kawasaki disease.
The density and peaks of seasonal activity of Dermacentor reticulatus ticks in eastern Poland
Authors: Zając Zbigniew , Woźniak Aneta , Kulisz Joanna
Published: December 2019

Background: Next to Ixodes ricinus , Dermacentor reticulatus ticks are the most important reservoir and vector of infectious diseases in Europe. In recent years, progressing expansion of D. reticulatus ticks into new territories and an increase in their population size in areas of their previous occurrence have been observed.Methods: The studies on tick population density were conducted in Lublin Province, eastern Poland. The investigated area was divided into 101 equal squares (plots). Additionally, studies on seasonal activity in the preferred habitat of the ornate cow ticks were conducted from 2014 to 2019 in the Polesie National Park.Results: Throughout the study on the tick population density, 19559 adult D. reticulatus specimens were collected. An average density of the ornate cow ticks in Lublin Province was 96.8 specimens/100 m 2 . A significant impact on the tick population density is exerted by meadow areas (Rs=0.281, p=0.0044), while weather conditions have no effect (H=6.08, p=0.1931). The local population of D. reticulatus ticks in the eastern and middle regions of Lublin Province exhibits predominance of spring activity peaks, while autumnal seasonal activity peaks prevail in the rest of the region. Multiannual monitoring of the seasonal activity of D. reticulatus in the Polesie National Park shows the prevalence of autumnal activity peaks in 2014-2019 and spring activity peaks in 2019.Conclusions: The area of Lublin Province is characterized by high density of the ornate cow ticks. Local populations of D. reticulatus show two peaks of seasonal activity. Dynamics of seasonal activity of D. reticulatus is influenced by availability of their hosts. The highest risk of ornate cow tick attacks on animals and humans occurs during spring in the eastern part and in autumn in the western part of Lublin Province.
Comparative analysis of visual performance and astigmatism tolerance with monofocal, bifocal, and extended depth-of-focus intraocular lenses targeting slight myopia
Authors: Xu Jie , Zheng Tianyu , Lu Yi
Published: December 2019

BackgroundTo compare the visual performance and astigmatism tolerance of 3 intraocular lens (IOLs): monofocal, bifocal, and extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) IOLs targeting slight myopia.MethodsOverall, there were 60 cataract surgery eyes from 60 patients with implantation of a monofocal, bifocal or EDOF IOL (20 eyes in each IOL group). The EDOF IOLs targeted slight myopia (-0.25 D to -0.75 D). Intragroup comparison of visual acuity, defocus curve, objective optical quality, contrast sensitivity, Visual function questionnaire scores, patients’ overall satisfaction, and the astigmatism tolerance were performed 3 months after surgery.ResultsThe EDOF group provided equivalently excellent distance visual outcomes (0.06±0.12) as the monofocal (0.06±0.09) and bifocal (0.03±0.09) groups (P=0.554), better intermediate vision than the other 2 groups (P<0.05), and similarly satisfactory near visual outcomes (0.23±0.16 at 20 cm, and 0.17±0.14 at 33 cm) as the bifocal group (0.28±0.14 at 20 cm, and 0.08±0.10 at 33 cm) (P>0.05). The contrast sensitivity of EDOF IOL was slightly decreased compared to that of monofocal IOL, but it was better than that of bifocal IOL. The EDOF group showed significantly higher satisfaction than the bifocal group did when preoperative corneal astigmatism was 0.75 D or greater (P=0.009). A significant negative correlation between the corneal astigmatism and patient satisfaction was observed in only the bifocal group. ConclusionsThe EDOF IOLs targeting slight myopia offered satisfactory visual outcomes at an extended range from far to near distances. The EDOF and monofocal IOLs showed a better tolerance to astigmatism than did the bifocal IOL.
A glucotolerant β-glucosidase from the fungus Talaromyces amestolkiae and its conversion into a glycosynthase for phenolic compounds glycosylation.
Authors: Méndez-Líter Juan Antonio , Nieto-Domínguez Manuel , de Toro Beatriz Fernández , Santana Andrés González , Prieto Alicia , Asensio Juan Luis , Cañada Francisco Javier , de Eugenio Laura Isabel , Martinez Maria Jesus
Published: December 2019

Background: The interest for finding novel b-glucosidases that can improve the yields for the production of second-generation (2G) biofuels is still very high. One of the most desired features for these enzymes is the glucose tolerance, which allows them to act optimally under elevated glucose concentrations. Besides, there is an additional focus of attention on finding novel enzymatic alternatives for glycoside synthesis, for which a mutated version of glycosidases, named glycosynthases, have gained much interest in recent years. Results: In this work, a glucotolerant β-glucosidase (BGL-1) from the ascomycete fungus Talaromyces amestolkiae has been heterologously expressed in Pichia pastoris , purified, and characterized. The production of the enzyme in the yeast was very high, reaching 75 U/mL, and it allowed purification in just one step with a yield of 80%. Although the enzyme showed good efficiency on p NPG ( K m =3.36 ± 0.7 mM, k cat =898.31 s -1 ), the activity detected on cellooligosaccharides, the natural substrates of the enzyme, was much lower, which could limit its exploitation in lignocellulose degradation processes. Interestingly, when examining the substrate specificity of BGL-1, it showed to be more active on sophorose, the b-1,2 disaccharide of glucose, than on cellobiose. Besides, the transglycosylation profile of BGL-1 was examined, and, for expanding its synthetic capacities, it was converted into a glycosynthase. The mutant enzyme, named BGL-1-E521G, was able to use α-D-glucosyl-fluoride as donor in glycosylation reactions, and synthesized glucosylated derivatives of different p NP-sugars in a regioselective manner, as well as of some phenolic compounds of industrial interest, such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Conclusions: In this work, we report the characterization of a novel glucotolerant 1,2-β-glucosidase, which also has a considerable activity on 1,4-β-glucosyl bonds, that has been cloned in P. pastoris , produced, purified and characterized. In addition, the enzyme was converted into an efficient glycosynthase, which can transfer glucose molecules to glucose to a diversity of acceptors for obtaining compounds of interest. The remarkable capacities of BGL-1 and its glycosynthase mutant, both in hydrolysis or in synthesis, suggest that it could be an enzyme with applications for industrial processes.