bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of Bartonella henselae Western Immunoblotting for Serodiagnosis of Bartonelloses in Dogs
Authors: Neupane Pradeep , Sevala Sindhura , Balakrishnan Nandhakumar , Marr Henry , Wilson James , Maggi Ricardo , Birkenheuer Adam , Lappin Michael , Chomel Bruno , Breitschwerdt Edward B.
Published: January 2020

Bartonella
spp. are etiological agents of life-threatening zoonotic diseases in dogs worldwide. Due to the poor sensitivity of immunofluorescent-antibody assays (IFAs), a reliable serodiagnostic test for canine bartonelloses is of clinical importance. The utility of Western blotting (WB) for the serodiagnosis of canine bartonelloses has not been critically investigated. The objective of this study was to characterize WB immunodominant proteins that could be used to confirm a serodiagnosis of bartonelloses.
Evolution of the Pleistocene Lake Tecopa beds, southeastern California: A stratigraphic and sedimentologic perspective
Authors: Larsen* Daniel , Olson Kristian
Published: January 2020

The deposits of Pleistocene Lake Tecopa include lacustrine, alluvial, eolian, and groundwater discharge deposits of the Tecopa basin in southeastern California. Stratigraphic sections measured in the Tecopa basin and detailed sedimentary facies analysis were used to interpret the depositional settings and track the evolution of sedimentary processes in the basin during the Pleistocene. The early Pleistocene (ca. 2.4–1.0 Ma) deposits of the Lake Tecopa beds record deposition in small saline, alkaline lakes and playas with surrounding mudflats and sandflats and adjacent alluvial fans. Ancestral Amargosa River gravels are first observed in fluvial deposits in the northern part of the basin at ca. 1.0 Ma and correspond with lake expansions (Glass Mountain [GM] lakes) during deposition of the uppermost Glass Mountain ash beds. Several oscillations in lake level followed the post-GM lake decline, culminating in the basin-filling Lava Creek (LC) lake, which reached its acme during deposition of the 0.63 Ma Lava Creek B ash bed. The post–Lava Creek B strata reflect primarily alluvial, fluvial, eolian, and groundwater discharge depositional processes, punctuated in the youngest part of the section by basin-filling lakes (high lake 1 and 2). The Lava Creek B ash bed and older lacustrine strata exhibit extensive zeolitization and clay authigenesis, characteristic of saline, alkaline lake deposits, but the post–Lava Creek B ash bed lacustrine strata have only minor zeolite and clay alteration, suggesting fresher water conditions and a change in the hydrologic state of the basin. Sedimentological observations along with shoreline elevation data provide evidence for intermittent spillover of basin-filling lakes after ca. 0.63 Ma.

Subtle tectonic deformation influenced sedimentary processes in the Tecopa basin throughout its history. Episodes of uplift and tilting of Lake Tecopa strata during the middle Pleistocene in the southern part of the basin along the Tecopa Hump likely controlled the sill elevation for spillover of the lake, creating accommodation space for late Pleistocene basin-filling lakes. Ultimately, decreased uplift could not keep pace with increased discharge resulting from high effective moisture during latest middle Pleistocene pluvial periods, and Lake Tecopa drained, most likely during or immediately after marine oxygen isotope stage (MIS) 10 (ca. 0.3 Ma). The deposits of Lake Tecopa provide a detailed record of Pleistocene paleoclimate from ca. 2.4 to 0.3 Ma that demonstrates Milankovitch-scale tuning and clarifies the amplitude of Pleistocene climate change in the southern Great Basin of North America.
The missing link of Rodinia breakup in western South America: A petrographical, geochemical, and zircon Pb-Hf isotope study of the volcanosedimentary Chilla beds (Altiplano, Bolivia)
Authors: Bahlburg Heinrich , Zimmermann Udo , Matos Ramiro , Berndt Jasper , Jimenez Nestor , Gerdes Axel
Published: January 2020

The assembly of Rodinia involved the collision of eastern Laurentia with southwestern Amazonia at ca. 1 Ga. The tectonostratigraphic record of the central Andes records a gap of ∼300 m.y. between 1000 Ma and 700 Ma, i.e., from the beginning of the Neoproterozoic Era to the youngest part of the Cryogenian Period. This gap encompasses the time of final assembly and breakup of the Rodinia supercontinent in this region.

We present new petrographic and whole-rock geochemical data and U-Pb ages combined with Hf isotope data of detrital zircons from the volcanosedimentary Chilla beds exposed on the Altiplano southwest of La Paz, Bolivia. The presence of basalt to andesite lavas and tuffs of continental tholeiitic affinity provides evidence of a rift setting for the volcanics and, by implication, the associated sedimentary rocks. U-Pb ages of detrital zircons (n = 124) from immature, quartz-intermediate sandstones have a limited range between 1737 and 925 Ma. A youngest age cluster (n = 3) defines the maximum depositional age of 925 ± 12 Ma. This is considered to coincide with the age of deposition because Cryogenian and younger ages so typical of Phanerozoic units of this region are absent from the data.

The zircon age distribution shows maxima between 1300 and 1200 Ma (37% of all ages), the time of the Rondônia–San Ignacio and early Sunsás (Grenville) orogenies in southwestern Amazonia. A provenance mixing model considering the Chilla beds, Paleozoic Andean units, and data from eastern Laurentia Grenville sources shows that >90% of the clastic input was likely derived from Amazonia. This is also borne out by multidimensional scaling (MDS) analysis of the data.

We also applied MDS analysis to combinations of U-Pb age and Hf isotope data, namely εHf(t) and 176Hf/177Hf values, and demonstrate again a very close affinity of the Chilla beds detritus to Amazonian sources. We conclude that the Chilla beds represent the first and hitherto only evidence of Rodinia breakup in Tonian time in Andean South America.
Correlation between lens thickness and lens density in patients with mild to moderate cataracts
Authors: Henriquez Maria A , Mejías Josefina A , Rincon Mirel , Izquierdo Luis , Binder Perry S
Published: January 2020

Purpose

To determine the relationships between lens thickness (LT), lens density and anterior segment parameters in patients with mild to moderate cataracts.

Setting

Oftalmosalud Instituto de Ojos, Lima, Perú.

Design

Prospective, single-centre, cross-sectional study.

Methods

169 eyes with age-related mild to moderate cataracts had lens density assessed using the Lens Opacification Classification System III, the built-in Pentacam HR Nucleus Staging software and ImageJ software. LT and axial length (AL) were measured with the IOLMaster 700, and angle parameters were measured using anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Pearson correlation coefficients and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for statistical analyses.

Results

Nuclear colour score was the only clinical parameter with a weak significant correlation with LT (r=0.24, p=0.003) after accounting for age, AL, gender and anterior chamber depth (ACD). The maximum value of average lens density and the mean nuclear density were significantly correlated with LT (r=0.24, p=0.003 and −0.17, p=0.03, respectively) after controlling for the same factors. Central LT greater than 4.48 mm was present in 54.5% of the eyes with a nuclear opalescence grade 1.

Conclusions

LT is independent of lens density in mild to moderate cataracts after accounting for age, AL, ACD and gender contrary to previous studies.
Effect of a formulated eye drop with Leptospermum spp honey on tear film properties
Authors: Tan Jacqueline , Jia Tianni , Liao Roslyn , Stapleton Fiona
Published: January 2020

Aim

To evaluate the effects of a proprietary formulated eye drop with Leptospermum spp honey versus a conventional lubricant eye drop on tear film properties in subjects with symptoms related to dry eye disease after 28 days of treatment.

Methods

Forty-six subjects with symptoms related to dry eye (Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) score >12) were enrolled and randomly assigned to receive either the test formulated eye drop (Optimel by Melcare Biomedical Pty Ltd) or control eye drops (Alcon, USA) in this double-masked study. Inferior lipid layer thickness (LLT), tear film evaporation rate (TER), fluorescein tear film break-up time (TBUT), corneal staining and subjective symptoms (OSDI and visual analogue scales (VAS)) were measured before and after 28 days of instilling the eye drops.

Results

Forty-two subjects completed the study (21 subjects in each group). After 28 days of treatment, TER showed a significantly greater reduction with the formulated eye drop compared with the control (p=0.01). TBUT showed a slight but not statistically significant increase with the formulated eye drop compared with the control (p=0.06), and a significantly greater reduction (improvement) in OSDI scores was observed with the formulated eye drop compared with the control (p=0.01). No significant differences were found between the two groups for inferior LLT, corneal staining and any of the VAS scores.

Conclusions

The formulated eye drops were effective in reducing tear film evaporation rate and were more effective for improving symptoms of dry eye compared with the control eye drops after 28 days of treatment.

Trial registration number

NCT03622619.
Major cardiac events for adult survivors of childhood cancer diagnosed between 1970 and 1999: report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study cohort
Authors: Mulrooney Daniel A , Hyun Geehong , Ness Kirsten K , Ehrhardt Matthew J , Yasui Yutaka , Duprez Daniel , Howell Rebecca M , Leisenring Wendy M , Constine Louis S , Tonorezos Emily , Gibson Todd M , Robison Leslie L , Oeffinger Kevin C , Hudson Melissa M , Armstrong Gregory T
Published: January 2020

Objective

To investigate the impact of modifications to contemporary cancer protocols, which minimize exposures to cardiotoxic treatments and preserve long term health, on serious cardiac outcomes among adult survivors of childhood cancer.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

27 institutions participating in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study.

Participants

23 462 five year survivors (6193 (26.4%) treated in the 1970s, 9363 (39.9%) treated in the 1980s, and 7906 (33.6%) treated in the 1990s) of leukemia, brain cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, renal tumors, neuroblastoma, soft tissue sarcomas, and bone sarcomas diagnosed prior to age 21 years between 1 January 1970 and 31 December 1999. Median age at diagnosis was 6.1 years (range 0-20.9) and 27.7 years (8.2-58.3) at last follow-up. A comparison group of 5057 siblings of cancer survivors were also included.

Main outcome measures

Cumulative incidence and 95% confidence intervals of reported heart failure, coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, pericardial disease, and arrhythmias by treatment decade. Events were graded according to the National Cancer Institute’s Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events. Multivariable subdistribution hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios by decade, and mediation analysis examined risks with and without exposure to cardiotoxic treatments.

Results

The 20 year cumulative incidence of heart failure (0.69% for those treated in the 1970s, 0.74% for those treated in the 1980s, 0.54% for those treated in the 1990s) and coronary artery disease (0.38%, 0.24%, 0.19%, respectively), decreased in more recent eras (P<0.01), though not for valvular disease (0.06%, 0.06%, 0.05%), pericardial disease (0.04%, 0.02%, 0.03%), or arrhythmias (0.08%, 0.09%, 0.13%). Compared with survivors with a diagnosis in the 1970s, the risk of heart failure, coronary artery disease, and valvular heart disease decreased in the 1980s and 1990s but only significantly for coronary artery disease (hazard ratio 0.65, 95% confidence interval 0.45 to 0.92 and 0.53, 0.36 to 0.77, respectively). The overall risk of coronary artery disease was attenuated by adjustment for cardiac radiation (0.90, 0.78 to 1.05), particularly among survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma (unadjusted for radiation: 0.77, 0.66 to 0.89; adjusted for radiation: 0.87, 0.69 to 1.10).

Conclusions

Historical reductions in exposure to cardiac radiation have been associated with a reduced risk of coronary artery disease among adult survivors of childhood cancer. Additional follow-up is needed to investigate risk reductions for other cardiac outcomes.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01120353.
Cholinesterase inhibitors in patients with diabetes mellitus and dementia: an open-cohort study of ~23 000 patients from the Swedish Dementia Registry
Authors: Secnik Juraj , Schwertner Emilia , Alvarsson Michael , Hammar Niklas , Fastbom Johan , Winblad Bengt , Garcia-Ptacek Sara , Religa Dorota , Eriksdotter Maria
Published: January 2020

Objective

Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChEIs) and memantine are the only approved pharmacological treatments for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Recent literature suggests reductions in cardiovascular burden and risk of stroke in ChEI users. However, the clinical effectiveness of these drugs in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and dementia has not been evaluated.

Research design and methods

We conducted a registry-based open-cohort study of 22 660 patients diagnosed with AD and mixed-pathology dementia registered in the Swedish Dementia Registry until December 2015. Information on drug use, comorbidity and mortality was extracted using the linkage with the National Patient Registry, the Prescribed Drug Registry and the Cause of Death Registry. In total, 3176 (14%) patients with DM and 19 484 patients without DM were identified. Propensity-score matching, Cox-regression and competing-risk regression models were applied to produce HRs with 95% CIs for differences in all-cause, cardiovascular and diabetes-related mortality rates in ChEI users and non-users.

Results

After matching the ChEI use in patients with DM was associated with 24% all-cause mortality reduction (HR 0.76 (95% CI 0.67 to 0.86)), compared with 20% reduction (0.80 (0.75 to 0.84)) in non-DM users. Donepezil and galantamine use were associated with a reduced mortality in both patients with DM (0.84 (0.74 to 0.96); 0.80 (0.66 to 0.97)) and patients without DM (0.85 (0.80 to 0.90); 0.93 (0.86 to 0.99)). Donepezil was further associated with reduction in cardiovascular mortality, however only in patients without DM (0.84 (0.75 to 0.94)). Rivastigmine lowered mortality only in the whole-cohort analysis and in patients without DM (0.82 (0.75 to 0.89)). Moreover, ChEI use was associated with 48% reduction in diabetes-related mortality (HR 0.52 (0.32 to 0.87)) in the whole-cohort analysis. Last, low and high doses were associated with similar benefit.

Conclusions

We found reductions in mortality in patients with DM and AD or mixed-pathology dementia treated with ChEIs, specifically donepezil and galantamine were associated with largest benefit. Future studies should evaluate whether ChEIs help maintain self-management of diabetes in patients with dementia.
Oral propranolol for treatment of the subgroups of essential tremor: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Zhang Manyu , Li Wei , Hu Lan , Chen Li , Yang Liu , Zhang Tian , Shen Hui , Peng Yanan , Gao Shijun , Chen Zhibin , Wang Tan , Zhao Zhenqiang
Published: January 2020

Introduction

Essential tremor (ET), a tremor disorder, is one of the most common movement disorders. Only oral drugs (propranolol, primidone, topiramate, etc）are still the first-line treatment recommended by the Food and Drug Administration. Propranolol is thought to potentially reduce upper limb action tremor. However, it has a poor effect on axial tremor symptoms, such as essential head tremor and voice tremor. Studies have shown that tremor severity develops over time, possibly producing other clinical tremors and neurological soft signs (such as memory loss, gait abnormalities, balance disorders, etc), which further increases the difficulty of treating tremors. However, some recent studies provide emerging evidence for oral propranolol on subgroups of ET, which is based on the anatomical distribution of ET (lower extremities, head, sound, tongue, etc). This systematic review aims to synthesise these new data to improve the efficacy of propranolol in ET subgroups.

Methods and analysis

We will search for randomised controlled trials from the PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, UptoDate and PEDro databases from inception to June 2019. All data will be extracted independently by two reviewers and compared at the end of the review. The two reviewers will screen the study quality, and the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool in Review Manager (RevMan) V.5.3.3 will be used to evaluate risk of bias. Our primary outcome will be the functional disability component related to tremors, as measured by the Fahn-Tolosa-Marin Tremor Rating Scale subscales B and C. Secondary outcomes will include severity of tremors and quality of life. Narrative and meta-analytical syntheses are planned.

Ethics and dissemination

Published aggregated data will be used in this review analysis and therefore no ethical approval is required. The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals, and proliferation activities will include diverse social stakeholders, non-academic groups and patients.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018112580
Non-thermal histotripsy tumor ablation promotes abscopal immune responses that enhance cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Qu Shibin , Worlikar Tejaswi , Felsted Amy E , Ganguly Anutosh , Beems Megan V , Hubbard Ryan , Pepple Ashley L , Kevelin Alicia A , Garavaglia Hannah , Dib Joe , Toma Mariam , Huang Hai , Tsung Allan , Xu Zhen , Cho Clifford Suhyun
Published: January 2020

Background

Developing the ability to use tumor-directed therapies to trigger potentially therapeutic immune responses against cancer antigens remains a high priority for cancer immunotherapy. We hypothesized that histotripsy, a novel non-invasive, non-thermal ablation modality that uses ultrasound-generated acoustic cavitation to disrupt tissues, could engender adaptive immune responses to tumor antigens.

Methods

Immunocompetent C57BL/6 mice inoculated with flank melanoma or hepatocellular carcinoma tumors were treated with histotripsy, thermal ablation, radiation therapy, or cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated protein-4 (CTLA-4) blockade checkpoint inhibition. Lymphocyte responses were measured using flow cytometric and immunohistochemical analyses. The impact of histotripsy on abscopal immune responses was assessed in mice bearing bilateral tumors, or unilateral tumors with pulmonary tumors established via tail vein injection.

Results

Histotripsy ablation of subcutaneous murine melanoma tumors stimulated potent local intratumoral infiltration of innate and adaptive immune cell populations. The magnitude of this immunostimulation was stronger than that seen with tumor irradiation or thermal ablation. Histotripsy also promoted abscopal immune responses at untreated tumor sites and inhibited growth of pulmonary metastases. Histotripsy was capable of releasing tumor antigens with retained immunogenicity, and this immunostimulatory effect was associated with calreticulin translocation to the cellular membrane and local and systemic release of high mobility group box protein 1. Histotripsy ablation potentiated the efficacy of checkpoint inhibition immunotherapy in murine models of melanoma and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Conclusions

These preclinical observations suggest that non-invasive histotripsy ablation can be used to stimulate tumor-specific immune responses capable of magnifying the impact of checkpoint inhibition immunotherapy.
Prioritarian principles for digital health in low resource settings
Authors: Winters Niall , Venkatapuram Sridhar , Geniets Anne , Wynne-Bannister Emma
Published: January 2020

This theoretical paper argues for prioritarianism as an ethical underpinning for digital health in contexts of extreme disadvantage. In support of this claim, the paper develops three prioritarian principles for making ethical decisions for digital health programme design, grounded in the normative position that the greater the need (of the marginalised), the stronger the moral claim. The principles are positioned as an alternative view to the prevailing utilitarian approach to digital health, which the paper argues is not sufficient to address the needs of the worst off. As researchers of digital health, we must ensure that the most globally marginalised are not overlooked by overtly technocentric implementation practices. Consequently, the paper concludes by advocating for use of the three principles to support stronger critical reflection on the ethics involved in the design and implementation of digital health programmes.
​Risk of major adverse cardiovascular events among patients with rheumatoid arthritis after initial CT-based diagnosis and treatment
Authors: de Thurah Annette , Andersen Ina Trolle , Tinggaard Andreas Bugge , Riis Anders Hammerich , Therkildsen Josephine , Bøtker Hans Erik , Bøttcher Morthen , Hauge Ellen-Margrethe
Published: January 2020

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a known risk factor for developing coronary artery disease (CAD). The influence of RA on the prognosis after initial CAD diagnosis and treatment is however largely unknown. We examined the risk of major cardiovascular events among RA and non-RA patients with chest pain referred to cardiac CT.

Methods

This was a follow-up study, using data from the Western Denmark Heart Registry, containing data on CT angiography examinations (Cardiac CT). Information on RA diagnosis and covariates were identified through nationwide administrative registers. The primary outcome was a combined outcome including, myocardial infarction, ischaemic or unspecified stroke, coronary artery bypass grafting, percutaneous coronary intervention, and all-cause mortality. Median time until events or censoring was 3.5 years (min/max: 0.0: 9.2). Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the association between RA/non-RA patients and outcomes.

Results

Among 42 257 patients, referred between 2008 and 2016, we identified 358 (0.8%) with RA. An increased risk was seen in RA compared with non-RA (adjusted HR 1.35, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.96). Among patients who had received flare treatment more than once prior to cardiac CT the adjusted HR 1.80 (95% CI 1.08 to 3.00), and among patients with seropositive RA the adjusted HR 1.42 (95% CI 0.93 to 2.16).

Conclusion

In patients referred to cardiac CT due to chest pain, we found a trend of an association between RA and the combined primary outcome, supporting that RA per se, but in particular seropositive and active RA, may increase the risk of CAD even after initial CAD diagnosis and treatment.
On Bose-Einstein condensation in one-dimensional lattices of delta functions
Authors: Bordag M.
Published: January 2020

We investigate Bose-Einstein condensation of a gas of non-interacting Bose particles moving in the background of a periodic lattice of delta functions. In the one-dimensional case, where one has no condensation in the free case, we showed that this property persist also in the presence of the lattice. In addition we formulated some conditions on the spectral functions which would allow for condensation.
Dynamically and thermally nonequilibrium fluctuation-electromagnetic interactions: Recent results and trends
Authors: Dedkov George , Kyasov Arthur
Published: January 2020

Our recent theoretical developments related to the nonrelativistic and relativistic fluctuation-electromagnetic interactions of bodies with different temperatures moving translationally and (or) rotationally relative to each other are briefly summarized. Three basic geometrical configurations and physical systems are discussed: “a small particle and a thick plate” (i); “a small particle in a radiative vacuum background” (ii) and “two thick plates in relative motion” (iii) — classical Casimir-Lifshitz configuration with allowance for relative motion and different temperatures of plates. For configuration 3, it is shown that the theory of friction and heat exchange by Levin-Polevoi-Rytov proves to be quite adequate contrary to the settled point of view of many authors.
Monte-Carlo Simulation of Pitting Corrosion with a Deterministic Model for Repassivation
Authors: Engelhardt George R. , Macdonald Digby D.
Published: January 2020

A theory is developed for calculating the delayed repassivation (“stifling”) rate constant for stable pits on a metal surface with attention being paid to pitting of the carbon steel overpack in the Belgian supercontainer concept of the disposal of high-level nuclear waste. It is shown that, under the conditions that are expected to exist at the overpack surface, substantial concentration and potential drops cannot exist between the pit internal surface and the external surface far away from the pit mouth. This conclusion is valid for both open and semi-closed pits, if there is no porous, high resistance, corrosion product layer (salt film and/or remnants of the ruptured passive film) between the active metal surface inside the pit and the external surface, as supported by recent artificial pit experiments. It is shown that the existence of a low conductivity, corrosion product layer between the active pit base and the external surface can protect pits from the repassivation. The condition of repassivation is based upon the concept of the existence a critical pit propagation rate, V

cr
, corresponding to a critical coupling current. If the rate of pit propagation becomes less than V

cr
the pit passivates, because the coupling current is too low to maintain the necessary aggressive conditions within the pit cavity. A model and computer code have been developed for estimating the probability of failure in the Belgian high-level nuclear waste (HLNW) disposal repository.
Altered Frequency of NK Cells and Treg Cells by Astragalus Polysaccharide Combined with Budesonide in Asthma Model Mice
Authors: Zhang Wei , Ma Kuifen
Published: January 2020

Objective. We investigated the efficacy of astragalus polysaccharide (APS) combined with budesonide and the effect on expressions of peripheral NK cells and Treg cells and the molecular mechanism in mice with bronchial asthma. Methods. In this study, we established a mouse model of asthma. Four groups of BaLB/C mice were developed; control group had no asthma induction, and the other three groups of mice were sensitized by OVA (Ovalbumin), OVA + budesonide, and OVA + APS + budesonide. Flow cytometry was used to determine the proportion of NK cells and Treg cells. Levels of cytokines IL-4 and IL-10 were detected using RT-PCR and ELISA. Results. Asthma mice treated with APS + budesonide showed alleviated airway resistance compared to model mice (P<0.05). The percentage of dendritic cells (DCs) was reduced (P<0.05), while anti-inflammatory NK cells and Treg cells significantly increased after APS + budesonide treatment (P<0.05). Further, APS + budesonide treatment resulted in improvements in IL-4 and IL-10 mRNA and protein levels (P<0.05). Conclusion. APS combined with budesonide medication may regulate expressions of DCs cells and related cytokines, reliving clinical symptom of bronchial asthma.
Evaluation and Utilization of Nano-Micron Polymer Plug for Heterogeneous Carbonate Reservoir with Thief Zones
Authors: Wei Chenji , Zheng Jie , Xiong Lihui , Li Zhengzhong , Yang Jian , Zhang Jingjian , Lin Shiyao , Zhou Linlang , Fang Lichun , Ding Yutao
Published: January 2020

Thief zones are highly permeable zones in oil reservoirs which affect the performance greatly during water flooding. The most effective way to prevent the invalid circle of thief layer is the injection of high-concentration polymer slugs. In this paper, the plugging effect of nano-micron polymer flooding on the thief zone is studied by experimental and theoretical analysis. The changes of water content and flow resistance were analyzed under different conditions. The result shows that the model presented here has good agreement with the experimental results. The displacement effect is the best when the thief zone is located on the upper part of the reservoir. And the water content will decrease with the increase of flow resistance after nano-micron polymer injection. Besides, the higher the polymer concentration, the more obvious the decrease of water content, and more effective the plugging. This study has provided a quick and reasonable guide in the later adjustment of water flooding development of carbonate reservoirs with thief layers.
Preparation and Properties of an Active Cooling Antirutting Asphalt Mixture
Authors: Li Shuan , Li Xianghang , Xu Xinquan , Ji Xiaoping , Lv Dawei , Li Hangle
Published: January 2020

To reduce the temperature of asphalt pavements in summer and improve their high‐temperature stability, tourmaline anion powder (TAP) was used as a modifier to prepare modified asphalt, which actively cools the pavement. The effects of different TAP contents on the high‐ and low‐temperature performance of modified asphalt and its pavement cooling performance were studied based on the dynamic shear rheometer, low‐temperature bending beam rheometer, and indoor rutting plate temperature difference tests; subsequently, the optimum TAP content was determined. Modified asphalt was used to prepare an active cooling antirutting asphalt mixture, and its pavement cooling performance was verified via outdoor lighting tests. High‐ and low‐temperature dynamic modulus and low‐temperature semicircular splitting tests were used to evaluate the high‐ and low‐temperature performance; further, freeze‐thaw splitting and immersion Marshall tests were performed to evaluate the water stability of the active cooling antirutting asphalt mixture. The results denote that TAP is useful for improving the rutting factor of asphalt. When the TAP content is 16% of the asphalt material, the maximum cooling value of the surface in laboratory tests becomes 5.9°C. When compared with an ordinary asphalt mixture, the dynamic stability of the active cooling antirutting asphalt mixture at medium and high temperatures increased by 18%–22%. The fracture energy can be increased by 12% at low temperatures. The maximum cooling value of the surfaces in outdoor tests is 7.2°C, and the water stability slightly decreases; however, it still satisfies the specification requirements.
Developing a Reliability Model of CNC System under Limited Sample Data Based on Multisource Information Fusion
Authors: Peng Chong , Cai Yuzhen , Liu Guangpeng , Liao T. W.
Published: January 2020

The reliability of the computer numerical control (CNC) system affects its processing performance and is a major concern in the manufacturing industry today. However, existing reliability models to assess the reliability of the CNC system often exhibit relatively large errors due to inadequate treatment of small samples. In order to get around the constraint of limited lifetime failure data and take full advantage of existing reliability parameters in traditional reliability models, a multisource information fusion-based reliability model grounded on Bayesian inference is proposed to deal with the small sample size. The prior distributions are derived by using the probability encoding method and conjugate distribution based on the idea of multisource information fusion. Then, using the Jensen–Shannon divergence (JSD) to measure the similarity between prior information and field observation data, a constrained optimization problem is established to determine the respective weight of prior information and field observation data. Finally, by conducting the reliability analysis of repairable CNC systems, the validity of the proposed model and its prior distribution derivation method are verified.
Guidance Optimization of Travelers’ Travel Mode Choice Based on Fuel Tax Rate and Bus Departure Quantity in Two-Mode Transportation System
Authors: Wu Jianhui , Ji Yuanfa , Sun Xiyan , Xu Yan
Published: January 2020

This aim of this study is to improve the guidance role of the fuel tax rate and bus departure quantity on travel mode choice. Car and bus travel are chosen as the research object, and a day-to-day evolution model of dual-mode network traffic flow (based on a stochastic user equilibrium model and the method of network tatonnement process) is established. Subsequently, a guidance optimization model of fuel tax rate and bus departure quantity is designed. This guidance optimization model is formulated to determine the comprehensive minimum value among system total travel time of car travel, system total comprehensive cost of bus travel, and the difference between the total operating cost of bus departure increment and the total amount of fuel tax levied on car travelers. Through numerical examples, the validity of this guidance optimization model is verified, and the influence of fuel tax rate and bus departure quantity on the traffic network is analyzed. The results show that a guidance optimization scheme based on fuel tax rate and bus departure quantity can help regulate the proportion of car travel and improve bus service quality.
A Retrospective Review of Neonatal Sepsis among GBS-Colonized Women Undergoing Planned Cesarean Section after Labor Onset or Rupture of Membranes
Authors: Yahya Fadi B. , Hathcock Matthew A.
Published: January 2020

Background. Sepsis is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in neonates, with group B streptococcus (GBS) remaining the most frequent pathogen isolated from term infants. Surveillance data showed that the majority of cases of early-onset GBS disease were neonates born to women who either received no or suboptimal intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis with a notable portion of those women having a missed opportunity to receive ≥4 hours of chemoprophylaxis. Women planning delivery by cesarean section who present in labor or rupture of membranes prior to their scheduled surgery are unlikely to receive optimal GBS chemoprophylaxis and thus their neonates are at risk of having sepsis. Materials and Methods. A retrospective cohort study of women-infant dyads was extracted from the Consortium on Safe Labor dataset. Women who had an unlabored cesarean section at ≥37+0 week gestation were selected and divided into four groups based on GBS status and timing of cesarean section with respect to onset of labor or rupture of membranes. The rate of neonatal sepsis and the patterns of intrapartum antibiotic chemoprophylaxis were determined. Results. The sepsis rate (4.5%) among neonates of GBS-colonized women having their unlabored cesarean section after onset of labor or rupture of membranes was significantly higher than that in any other group in this study. In this group, 9.4% of women received chemoprophylaxis for ≥4 hours, while 31% had a missed opportunity to receive ≥4 hours of chemoprophylaxis. Conclusion. This study suggests that neonates of GBS-colonized women having a planned cesarean section after onset of labor or rupture of membranes are at increased risk of having a sepsis diagnosis. This finding suggest the need for additional studies to assess the risk of sepsis among neonates of women in this group.
First Documented Case of Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) Tube-Associated Bacterial Peritonitis due toAchromobacterSpecies with Literature Review
Authors: Tripathi Nishant , Koirala Niki , Kato Hirotaka , Singh Tushi , Karri Kishore , Thakur Kshitij
Published: January 2020

Introduction. Achromobacterspecies (spp.) peritonitis has seldom been identified in medical literature. Scarce cases ofAchromobacterperitonitis described previously have been correlated with peritoneal dialysis and more sparingly with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.Achromobacterexhibits intrinsic and acquired resistance, especially in chronic infections, to most antibiotics. This article conducts a literature review of all previously reportedAchromobacterspp. peritonitis and describes the first reported case ofAchromobacterperitonitis as a complication of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement.Discussion.Achromobacterperitonitis as a complication of PEG-tube placement has not been previously reported. In our patients’ case, the recently placed PEG-tube with ascitic fluid leakage was identified as the most plausible infection source. Although a rare bacterial peritonitis pathogen,Achromobactermay be associated with wide antimicrobial resistance and unfavorable outcomes.Conclusion.No current guidelines provide significant guidance on treatment of PEG-tube peritonitis regardless of microbial etiology. Infectious Disease Society of America identifies various broad-spectrum antibiotics targeting nosocomial intra-abdominal coverage; some of these antimicrobial selections (such as cefepime and metronidazole combination) may yet be inadequate for widely resistantAchromobacterspp. Recognizably, the common antibiotics utilized for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, i.e., third generation cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones, to whichAchromobacteris resistant and variably susceptible, respectively, would be extensively insufficient. Piperacillin/tazobactam (P/T) and carbapenem were identified to provide the most reliable coveragein vitro; clinically, 5 out of the 8 patients who received either P/T or a carbapenem, or both, eventually experienced clinical improvement.
Fuzzy AHP Based Optimal Design Building-Attached Photovoltaic System for Academic Campus
Authors: Hapsari Mega Ardisa , Subiyanto Subiyanto
Published: January 2020

Several algorithms have been developed for building-attached photovoltaic system (BAPV) planning in educational institute based on PV capacity. Fewer studies on optimization algorithms for BAPV system planing on campus have been reported which considers a technoeconomic assessment. Therefore, a well-known robust algorithm is used as an optimization technique of BAPV system and considers technoeconomic assessment on campus. This paper presents a combination of analytical hierarchy process (AHP) with fuzzy theory (fuzzy AHP) for selecting a suitable and optimal design of BAPV system on academic campus. The BAPV system design is based on roof area and load profile at the project site. Five BAPV systems have been designed using five different types of PV. The design was comprehensively assessed by experts through a questionnaire with pairwise comparison model. Fuzzy AHP used to consider the qualitative and quantitative assessments that can affect the selection process. The comprehensive assessment in criteria consists of sizing systems, technical, economic, and environmental perspectives as criteria. The perspective is divided into 13 subcriteria. The results show degree of importance from the criteria-based fuzzy AHP as follows: technical > economic > environment > sizing system. Based on the assessment of criteria and subcriteria, design with monocrystalline is most suitable and polycrystalline as the least suitable design for BAPV system connected to grid and battery energy storage system in case study.
Serum Soluble CD89-IgA Complexes Are Elevated in IgA Nephropathy without Immunosuppressant History
Authors: Wu Haiting , Wang Xiaoyan , Yang Zhe , Zhao Qing , Wen Yubing , Li Xuemei , Zhang Wei , Gao Ruitong
Published: January 2020

Purpose.CD89 (FcαRI), the receptor of IgA, can shed from cells to form complexes with IgA in serum and is supposed to participate in the pathogenesis of IgA nephropathy (IgAN). There are contradictory results on their utility in clinical practice. This study is aimed at investigating whether sCD89-IgA complexes can help in the diagnosis or evaluation of the disease.Methods. A sandwich ELISA was established using anti-CD89 as a capture antibody and HRP-conjugated anti-IgA as a detection antibody. This method was used to measure serum levels of sCD89-IgA complexes in IgAN patients without immunosuppressant history and healthy subjects. Correlations between serum levels of sCD89-IgA complexes and disease severity were analyzed.Results. Serum sCD89-IgA complexes increased with age (P<0.001). IgAN patients had higher sCD89-IgA complex levels compared with age- and gender-matched normal healthy individuals (P<0.001). Serum sCD89-IgAN significantly predicted IgAN diagnosis (AUC = 0.762 (0.640-0.883),P<0.001). But sCD89-IgA complexes did not correlate with baseline clinical manifestations, oxford classification, or renal function deteriorate speed.Conclusions. Serum sCD89-IgA complexes can guide diagnosis of IgAN in patients without immunosuppressant history, but provide limited help in clinicopathologic prediction.
Optimization of Gantry Cranes’ Operation Path for Transshipment Based on Improved TSP
Authors: Zhang Qi , Dong Hongjin , Ling Mingjun , Duan Leyi , Wei Yuguang
Published: January 2020

In order to improve the transshipment efficiency of transit containers in the port or the port-type railway network container freight station (PRNCS) with the condition that each transit container matches a railway flat-car, this paper studied the optimization of operation path of the rail mounted gantry crane (RMG) in the loading and unloading track for containers transshipped directly from highway to railway. Based on the basic model of TSP, the paper constructed the optimization model for the operation path of RMG, and designed the Ant Colony Algorithm (ACA) to solve it, and then obtained the operation scheme of RMG having the highest efficiency. Finally, the validity and correctness of the model and algorithm were verified by a case.
Implementation of New Technology in Patients with Chronic Deep Brain Stimulation: Switching from Non-Rechargeable Constant Voltage to Rechargeable Constant Current Stimulation
Authors: Wolf Marc E. , Klockziem Matti , Majewski Olaf , Schulte Dirk Michael , Krauss Joachim K. , Blahak Christian
Published: January 2020

Introduction: Deep brain stimulation (DBS) for movement disorders has been mainly performed with constant voltage (CV) technology. More recently also constant current (CC) systems have been developed which theoretically might have additional advantages. Furthermore, rechargeable (RC) system implantable pulse generators (IPG) are increasingly being used rather than the former solely available non-rechargeable (NRC) IPGs. Objective: To provide a systematic investigation how to proceed and adapt settings when switching from CV NRC to CC RC technology. Methods: We prospectively collected data from 11 consecutive patients (10 men, mean age at DBS implantation 52.6 ± 14.0 years) with chronic DBS for dystonia (n = 7), Parkinson disease (n = 3), and essential tremor (n = 1) who underwent IPG replacement switching from a CV NRC system (Activa® PC; Medtronic®) to a CC RC system (Vercise® RC; Boston Scientific®). Systematic assessments before and after IPG replacement were performed. Results: DBS technology switching at the time of IPG replacement due to battery depletion was at a mean of 108.5 ± 46.2 months of chronic DBS. No perioperative complications occurred. Clinical outcome was stable with overall mild improvements or deteriorations, which could be dealt with in short-term follow-up. Patients were satisfied with the new RC IPG. Conclusions: This study confirms both the safety and feasibility of switching between different DBS technologies (CV to CC, NRC to RC, different manufacturers) in patients with chronic DBS. Furthermore, it shows how the management can be planned using available information from the previous DBS settings. Individual assessment is needed and might partly be related to the DBS target and the underlying disease. MR safety might be a problem with such hybrid systems.
Implement Embedded Controller Using FPGA Chip
Authors: Pandya Haresh , Rangapariya Mahesh , Rajput Jitendra
Published: January 2020

The designer of an FPGA embedded processor system has complete flexibility to select any combination of peripherals and controllers. In fact, the designer can invent new, unique peripherals that can be connected directly to the processor bus. If a designer has a non-standard requirement for a peripheral set, this can be met easily with an FPGA embedded processor system. For example, a designer would not easily find an off-the-shelf processor with ten UARTs. However, in an FPGA, this configuration is very easily accomplished.
Design and Implementation of Reduced Power Energy Efficient Binary Coded Decimal Adder
Authors: Saravanakumar N. , Sudhan K. Sakthi , Vijeyakumar K. N. , Saranya S.
Published: January 2020

This paper presents a novel architecture for low power energy binary represented decimal addition. The proposed BCD adder uses Binary to Excess Six Converter (BESC) block for constant correction to adjusts binary outputs exceeding 9 to correct decimal values and exploits the inherent advantage of reduced delay and switching, due to elimination of long carry propagation in second stage addition as in conventional design and switching OFF of the BESC block for decimal outputs less than 9. The proposed BESC-BCD adder has been designed using VHDL code and synthesized using Altera Quartus II. Experimental results demonstrates that the proposed decimal adder can lead to significant power savings and delay reduction compared to existing BCD adders which is realised in better power-delay product(PDP) performance. For example the PDP saving of the proposed BESC-BCD adder for a 1 digit and 2 digit addition implementations are 11.6% and 16.05% respectively, compared to the best of the designs used for comparison.
Application of Carbon Nanotubes(CNT) on The Computer Science and Electrical Engineering:A Review
Authors: Kardan Moghaddam Hossein , Maraki Mohamad Reza , Rajaei Amir
Published: January 2020

In recent years, dimensions and sizes of components and parts in the
computer and electronic industries have been steadily reducing, as they are
now considered very tiny tools and there is always a need to store and
process information stronger. Nanotubes have poor magnetic properties. If
nanotubes are covered by ferromagnetic nanoparticles, their magnetic
properties can be improved and they can be used in the manufacture of
nanoelectronic devices in the computer and electronic industries. In addition
to reviewing the structure and properties of materials made using different
nanomaterials for use in the computer and electronic industries, the present
paper aimed to study different applications of nanomaterials, especially
carbon nanotubes, in the manufacture of electronic devices. The present
study showed that the corporation of nanomaterials into electronic devices is
a promising approach for future applications which can revolutionize the
computer industry.
Propedêutica neurológica do recém-nascido e sua evolução
Authors: Gherpelli José Luiz Dias
Published: January 2020

O autor descreve a propedêutica neurológica do recém-nascido a termo e pré-termo, tecendo considerações sobre as técnicas de exame mais freqüentemente empregadas na prática clínica e as síndromes neurológicas observadas no período neonatal. Posteriormente, descreve os padrões de desenvolvimentoobservados em crianças normais nos primeiros anos de vida, nas áreas motora, de linguagem, coordenação motora e adaptativa, descrevendo os testes mais comuns utilizados na avaliação das crianças pré-escolares.