bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exergy and Cost Optimization of a Two-Stage Refrigeration System Using Refrigerant R32 and R410A
Authors: Roy Ranendra , Bhowal Arup Jyoti , Mandal Bijan Kumar
Published: February 2020

An attempt has been made to investigate numerically a two-stage refrigeration system with flash intercooler of 50 kW cooling capacity using refrigerant R410A and its possible alternative R32. Development of the simulation model for the analysis of the system has been carried out in engineering equation solver considering the energetic, exergetic, economic, and environmental aspects. Evaporator and condenser temperatures have been varied from −50 °C to −25 °C and 40 °C to 55 °C, respectively, to carry out the simulation work. Co-efficient of performance (COP), exergetic efficiency, and plant cost rate are the three performance parameters computed in this present work. Results show that the performances of the system using R32 are comparable with those of the system using R410A. It is also observed that R32 shows slightly better thermo-economic performances at higher condenser temperature. Multi-objective optimization has also been carried out using the toolbox available for optimization in matlab to obtain the optimum performance and optimum operating conditions for both the refrigerants. Optimization results also show better thermo-economic performances of R32 over R410A though compressor discharge temperature is higher in case of R32.
Application of three-dimensional ultrasonography (3D ultrasound) to pretreatment evaluation of plastic induration of the penis (Peyronie’s disease)
Authors: Tyloch Janusz Ferdynand , Tyloch Dominik Janusz , Adamowicz Jan , Warsiński Patryk , Ostrowski Adam , Nowikiewicz Magdalena , Drewa Tomasz
Published: February 2020

Aim: Peyronie’s disease (PD) or plastic induration of the penis, require complete evaluation of plaques in order to decide the best therapeutic option for patient. The purpose of this study is to compare the findings of three-dimensional ultrasound (3D US) and two-dimensional ultrasound (2D US) in patients with PD.Materials and methods: Twenty patients with PD aged 30 to 72 years were included in study. The examination was performed with a 12 MHz linear probe, using 2D US and 3D US. Localization and size of plaques were determined and time needed for imagine acquisition was determined in every case.Results: 3D ultrasound permits the visualization of the entire plaque in the coronal plane of plaque with its precise measurements. No statistical difference in plaque dimensions and its surface area assessment using 3D US and 2D US was found (127.72 mm² vs. 128.74 mm², p>0.05). The possibility to perform detailed analysis of the acquired images using generated digital cube reduced the average duration of the acquisition to 69.8 seconds (median 64 seconds) for 3D US vs. 151.25 seconds (median 145.5 seconds) for 2D US (p<0.05). A supplementary plaque was detected using 3D US.Conclusions: 3D US seems to be a valuable complement of 2D US for patients with PD. The acquisition time is significantly reduced using 3D US comparing to 2D US and thus it is more comfortable for the patient.
Repeated downsweep vocalizations of the Araguaian river dolphin, Inia araguaiaensis
Authors: Melo-Santos Gabriel , Walmsley Sam F. , Marmontel Miriam , Oliveira-da-Costa Marcelo , Janik Vincent M.
Published: February 2020

Araguaian botos (Inia araguaiaensis) are known to produce pulsed as well as tonal sounds. This study documents the first evidence for repetitive sequences of downsweep whistles in botos that appear to be shared between individuals, and the context of their occurrence is investigated. Boat surveys were conducted along the Tocantins River located in the Eastern Amazon over a period of 42 days between 2012 and 2018. Eighty-two groups of Araguaian botos were observed, and 43 h of sound recordings were acquired. 632 downsweep whistles were recorded in 10 encounters. Four of these encounters contained downsweep bouts (21 bouts with ≥2 whistles) with short inter-call intervals (bout criterion 50 s) and up to 161 whistles. A statistical relationship was not found between downsweep occurrence and any of the contextual parameters that were investigated, including socializing, travelling, feeding, group size, presence of calves, and socio-sexual displays. The rarity of these signals makes them unlikely candidates for individual or group identification. It is more likely that they are associated with very specific contexts, such as nursing or mating, both of which were rarely observed in this study. Further studies are required to investigate context specificity and elucidate the function of these signals.
Effect of prosodic manipulation on articulatory kinematics and second formant trajectories in children
Authors: Allison Kristen M. , Salehi Sina , Green Jordan R.
Published: February 2020

This study investigated effects of rate reduction and emphatic stress cues on second formant (F2) trajectories and articulatory movements during diphthong production in 11 typically developing school-aged children. F2 extent increased in slow and emphatic stress conditions, and tongue and jaw displacement increased in the emphatic stress condition compared to habitual speech. Tongue displacement significantly predicted F2 extent across speaking conditions. Results suggest that slow rate and emphatic stress cues induce articulatory and acoustic changes in children that may enhance clarity of the acoustic signal. Potential clinical implications for improving speech in children with dysarthria are discussed.
Improved Physical Performance and Decreased Muscular and Oxidative Damage With Postlunch Napping After Partial Sleep Deprivation in Athletes
Authors: Romdhani Mohamed , Souissi Nizar , Chaabouni Yassine , Mahdouani Kacem , Driss Tarak , Chamari Karim , Hammouda Omar
Published: February 2020

Purpose:To investigate the effects of napping after partial sleep deprivation (PSD) on reaction time, mood, and biochemical response to repeated-sprint exercise in athletes.Methods:Nine male judokas performed 4 test sessions in a counterbalanced and randomized order. Participants accomplished 1 control session after a normal sleep night (NSN) and 3 after PSD with (1) no nap, (2) ∼20-min nap (N20), and (3) ∼90-min nap (N90) opportunities. Test sessions included the running-based anaerobic sprint test, reaction time, Hooper index, and Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Muscle-damage biomarkers and antioxidant status were evaluated before and after exercise.Results:PSD decreased maximum (P < .001,d = 1.12), mean (P < .001,d = 1.33), and minimum (P < .001,d = 1.15) powers compared with NSN. However, N20 and N90 enhanced maximum power compared with PSD (P < .05,d = 0.54;P < .001,d = 1.06, respectively). Minimum power and mean power increased only after N90 (P < .001,d = 1.63;P < .001,d = 1.16, respectively). Epworth Sleepiness Scale increased after PSD (P < .001,d = 0.86) and decreased after N20 (P < .001,d = 1.36) and N90 (P < .001,d = 2.07). N20 reduced multiple-choice reaction time (P < .001,d = 0.61). Despite performance decrement, PSD increased postexercise aspartate aminotransferase (P < .001,d = 4.16) and decreased glutathione peroxidase (P < .001,d = 4.02) compared with NSN. However, the highest performances after N90 were accompanied with lesser aspartate aminotransferase (P < .001,d = 1.74) and higher glutathione peroxidase (P < .001,d = 0.86) compared with PSD.Conclusions:Napping could be preventive against performance degradation caused by sleep loss. A short nap opportunity could be more beneficial when the subsequent effort is brief and requires frequent decision making. However, a longer nap opportunity could be preventive against muscle and oxidative damage, even for higher performances.
Changes in Core Temperature During an Elite Female Rugby Sevens Tournament
Authors: Henderson Mitchell J. , Chrismas Bryna C.R. , Stevens Christopher J. , Coutts Aaron J. , Taylor Lee
Published: February 2020

Purpose: To characterize player core temperature (Tc) across a World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series tournament day (WRWSS) and determine the efficacy of commonly employed cold-water-immersion (CWI) protocols. Methods: Tc was measured in 12 elite female rugby sevens athletes across 3 games (G1–3) from day 1 of the Sydney WRWSS tournament. Symptoms of exertional heat illness, perceptual scales, CWI details, playing minutes, external-load data (measured by global positioning systems), and wet-bulb globe temperature (range 18.5°C–20.1°C) were also collected. Linear mixed models and magnitude-based inferences were used to assess differences in Tc between periods (G1–3 and warm-ups [WU]). Results: Average Tc was “very likely” lower (effect size; ±90% confidence limit −0.33; ±0.18) in G1 than in G2. Peak Tc was “very likely” (0.71; ±0.28) associated with increased playing time. CWI did not remove the accumulated Tc due to WU and match-play activity (∼1°C–2°C rise in Tc still present compared with Tc at WU onset for players ≥6-min match play). Conclusions: Elite WRWSS athletes experienced high Tc during WU (Tc peak 37.9–39.0°C) and matches (Tc peak 37.9–39.8°C), a magnitude known to reduce intermittent high-intensity physical performance (≥39°C). The CWI protocol resulted in players (≥6-min match play) with ∼1°C to 2°C raised Tc compared with Tc at WU onset.
Exploration of Habitual Walking Behavior and Home-Based Muscle Power Training in Individuals With Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Trudelle-Jackson Elaine , Hines Emerenciana , Medley Ann , Thompson Mary
Published: February 2020

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a home-based muscle power training program on muscle strength and power, functional performance, and physical activity behavior in individuals at least 6 months posttotal knee arthroplasty. Methods: Twelve men and women, mean age 63.9 (6.8) and 6 months to 2 years posttotal knee arthroplasty unilateral or bilateral), completed this study. Participants were randomly assigned to the home-based power training intervention or step-monitoring comparison group. Quadriceps muscle strength and power, 6-minute walk test, functional leg power, and habitual walking behavior (average daily steps, minutes per week of moderate to vigorous physical activity) were assessed before and after intervention and then compared between and within groups. Results: The authors found no significant differences between the groups on amount of change in any of the outcomes, but mixed results on differences within each of the groups on the outcome measures. Conclusion: There were no differences between the groups for amount of change on the outcome measures the authors selected. Although within group differences varied slightly for each group, it was not enough to justify the more expensive home-based power training over the simpler step-monitoring intervention.
A structural basis for how ligand binding site changes can allosterically regulate GPCR signaling and engender functional selectivity
Authors: Sanchez-Soto Marta , Verma Ravi Kumar , Willette Blair K. A. , Gonye Elizabeth C. , Moore Annah M. , Moritz Amy E. , Boateng Comfort A. , Yano Hideaki , Free R. Benjamin , Shi Lei , Sibley David R.
Published: February 2020

A conserved amino acid residue in the ligand binding site of class A GPCRs regulates receptor interactions with β-arrestin.
Preclinical Antimalarial Combination Study of M5717, a Plasmodium falciparum Elongation Factor 2 Inhibitor, and Pyronaridine, a Hemozoin Formation Inhibitor
Authors: Rottmann Matthias , Jonat Brian , Gumpp Christin , Dhingra Satish K. , Giddins Marla J. , Yin Xiaoyan , Badolo Lassina , Greco Beatrice , Fidock David A. , Oeuvray Claude , Spangenberg Thomas
Published: February 2020

Antimalarial drug resistance in the
Plasmodium falciparum
parasite poses a constant challenge for drug development. To mitigate this risk, new antimalarial medicines should be developed as fixed-dose combinations. Assessing the pharmacodynamic interactions of potential antimalarial drug combination partners during early phases of development is essential in developing the targeted parasitological and clinical profile of the final drug product. Here, we have studied the combination of M5717, a
P. falciparum
translation elongation factor 2 inhibitor, and pyronaridine, an inhibitor of hemozoin formation.
Efficacy of Ceftolozane-Tazobactam in Combination with Colistin against Extensively Drug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Including High-Risk Clones, in an
In Vitro
Pharmacodynamic Model
Authors: Montero María , Domene Ochoa Sandra , López-Causapé Carla , VanScoy Brian , Luque Sonia , Sorlí Luisa , Campillo Núria , Angulo-Brunet Ariadna , Padilla Eduardo , Prim Núria , Pomar Virginia , Rivera Alba , Grau Santiago , Ambrose Paul G. , Oliver Antonio , Horcajada Juan P.
Published: February 2020

Combination therapy is an attractive therapeutic option for extensively drug-resistant (XDR)
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
infections. Colistin has been the only treatment available for these infections for many years, but its results are suboptimal. Ceftolozane-tazobactam (C/T) is a newly available therapeutic option that has shown good antipseudomonal activity, even against a number of XDR
P. aeruginosa
strains. However, data about combinations containing C/T are scarce.
Fecal Carriage of Extended-Spectrum-β-Lactamase/AmpC-Producing
Escherichia coli
in Horses
Authors: Hordijk Joost , Farmakioti Evangelia , Smit Lidwien A. M. , Duim Birgitta , Graveland Haitske , Theelen Mathijs J. P. , Wagenaar Jaap A.
Published: February 2020

Extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) are widespread in human and animal populations and in the environment. Many different ESBL variants exist. The dissemination of ESBLs within and between populations and the environment is also largely influenced by genetic mobile elements (e.g., plasmids) that facilitate spread of these ESBLs. In order to identify potential attributable ESBL sources for, e.g., the human population, it is important to identify the different ESBL variants, the bacteria carrying them, and the potential risk factors for ESBL carriage from other potential sources. This nationwide study focuses on ESBL carriage in the open horse population and investigated the molecular characteristics, geographical distribution throughout the Netherlands, and potential risk factors for fecal ESBL carriage in horses. These data can be used for future attribution studies in order to reduce potential transmission of ESBL-producing bacteria between sources.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Biofuel-Relevant Microalga Desmodesmus armatus
Authors: Knoshaug Eric P. , Nag Ambarish , Astling David P. , Douchi Damien , Laurens Lieve M. L.
Published: February 2020

A draft genome of 906 scaffolds of 115.8 Mb was assembled for
Desmodesmus armatus
, a diploid, lipid- and storage carbohydrate-accumulating microalga proven relevant for large-scale, outdoor cultivation, and serves as a model alga platform for improving photosynthetic efficiency and carbon assimilation for next-generation bioenergy production.
Isolation and Whole-Genome Sequencing of 12 Mushroom-Associated Bacterial Strains: an Inquiry-Based Laboratory Exercise in a Genomics Course at the Rochester Institute of Technology
Authors: Wong Narayan H. , Rosato Andrew J. , Rose Yara M. , Penix Trevor S. , Fung Janice B. , Vanitski Alexis L. , Goossen Christian J. , Bradshaw Spencer G. , Lopp Spencer M. , Pennington Aaron D. , Darmohray Vincent M. , Steiner KayLee K. , Kersey Gina E. , Brylow Karl B. , Pridmore Mariel V. , Hedges Joseph S. , Rynkiewicz Patrick , Hudson André O.
Published: February 2020

Here, we report the isolation, identification, and whole-genome sequences of 12 bacterial strains associated with four mushroom species. The study was done as an inquiry-based exercise in an undergraduate genomics course (BIOL 340) in the Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences at the Rochester Institute of Technology.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Globally Distributed Cockroach-Infecting Fungus Herpomyces periplanetae Strain D. Haelew. 1187d
Authors: Haelewaters Danny , Okrasińska Alicja , Gorczak Michał , Pfister Donald H.
Published: February 2020

Herpomyces periplanetae
is an obligate biotroph of
Periplaneta americana
, the American cockroach. Its nearly cosmopolitan distribution is shaped by its globally invasive host and the international pet trade. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
H. periplanetae
, based on a thallus from
P. americana
collected in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Draft Genome Sequence of a New Staphylococcal Species Isolated from Human Skin
Authors: Stødkilde Kristian , Poehlein Anja , Brüggemann Holger
Published: February 2020

A hemolytic staphylococcal strain,
Staphylococcus
sp. strain 170179, was isolated from healthy human skin. Genome sequencing and comparison of strain 170179 to other staphylococci revealed a relatedness to
Staphylococcus haemolyticus
with an average nucleotide identity of 87.5%, indicating that
Staphylococcus
sp. 170179 belongs to a separate species.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Microbacterium oryzae
Strain MB-10, Isolated from a Rice Field in India
Authors: Deb Sushanta , Das Subrata K.
Published: February 2020

We report the draft genome sequence of
Microbacterium oryzae
strain MB-10
T
, which was isolated from rice field soil. The genome is 3.04 Mb, with a G+C content of 71.10%, and encodes 2,727 proteins. The genome sequence provides further information about strain MB-10
T
and the genus
Microbacterium
.
Genome Sequence of the Acidophilic Nonsulfur Purple Photosynthetic Alphaproteobacterium
Rhodovastum atsumiense,
a Divergent Member of the
Acetobacteraceae
Family
Authors: Montano Salama Dayana , Meyer Terry E. , Kyndt John A.
Published: February 2020

The genome sequence of the acidophile
Rhodovastum atsumiense
was determined for comparison with that of
Rhodopila globiformis
. Both genomes are unusually large for purple bacteria (7.10 Mb and 7.25 Mb, respectively), and they have an average nucleotide identity of 72%. This value is remarkably similar to the average nucleotide identity values for
Acidisphaera
,
Elioraea
, and
Paracraurococcus
, all aerobic anoxygenic phototrophs.
Robustness of Serologic Investigations for Chikungunya and Mayaro Viruses following Coemergence
Authors: Fischer Carlo , Bozza Fernando , Merino Merino Xiomara Jeanleny , Pedroso Celia , de Oliveira Filho Edmilson F. , Moreira-Soto Andrés , Schwalb Alvaro , de Lamballerie Xavier , Netto Eduardo Martins , Bozza Patrícia T. , Sarno Manoel , Brites Carlos , Gotuzzo Eduardo , Talledo Michael , Drexler Jan Felix
Published: February 2020

Geographically overlapping transmission of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and Mayaro virus (MAYV) in Latin America challenges serologic diagnostics and epidemiologic surveillance, as antibodies against the antigenically related viruses can be cross-reactive, potentially causing false-positive test results. We examined whether widely used ELISAs and plaque reduction neutralization testing allow specific antibody detection in the scenario of CHIKV and MAYV coemergence. For this purpose, we used 37 patient-derived MAYV-specific sera from Peru and 64 patient-derived CHIKV-specific sera from Brazil, including longitudinally collected samples. Extensive testing of those samples revealed strong antibody cross-reactivity in ELISAs, particularly for IgM, which is commonly used for patient diagnostics. Cross-neutralization was also observed, albeit at lower frequencies. Parallel testing for both viruses and comparison of ELISA reactivities and neutralizing antibody titers significantly increased diagnostic specificity. Our data provide a convenient and practicable solution to ensure robust differentiation of CHIKV- and MAYV-specific antibodies.
Breast cancer in a patient with Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome (BHDS) with dramatic response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Yadala Vivek , Jafri Hassaan , Legenza Mary T , Tirona Maria
Published: February 2020

This is a case of 49-year-old white woman who presented with a rapidly growing right sided breast mass. A subsequent punch biopsy confirmed grade 3 invasive mammary carcinoma of no special type which was negative for oestrogen receptor, progesterone receptor and Her-2 neu overexpression. She was a carrier of folliculin gene mutation that is characteristic of Birt-Hogg-Dubé syndrome (BHDS), a condition known to cause skin lesions, renal cancers and pneumothoraces. Family history revealed patient’s mother, grandmother and maternal aunt developed renal cell carcinomas during their lifetime and were positive for the same germ line mutation. Tumour tissue was positive for TP53 mutation and negative for BRCA1, BRCA2 and other genes commonly associated with breast cancer. We report a patient with BHDS presenting with breast cancer that showed dramatic response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy prior to bilateral mastectomy, local chest wall radiation and 6 months of adjuvant capecitabine.
Thirty-five-year trend in the prevalence of refractive error in Austrian conscripts based on 1.5 million participants
Authors: Yang Lin , Vass Clemens , Smith Lee , Juan Alfred , Waldhör Thomas
Published: February 2020

Background

To quantify the current burden of myopia and hyperopia in Austrian young men and the time trend of myopia in the past 35 years by individual and social correlates.

Method

We included data on all Austrian military conscripts from 1983 to 2017 (n=1 507 063) from six medical investigation stations. Young men provided data on education, weight and height for calculating body mass index, blood pressure and resting heart rate. Non-cycloplegic refractions were measured by an autorefractometer. Spherical equivalent was calculated by standard formula (sphere+cylinder/2, unit dioptres (D)). Myopic refractive error was defined as <−0.5 D). Hyperopic refractive error was defined as >0.5 D.

Results

The largest burden of refractive error in Austria is myopia, which rose from 13.8% to 24.4% over 35 years, with less than 5% hyperopic population. Over time, the prevalence of myopia was constantly lower yet increased more rapidly among those with low education levels (11.4%–21.7%) compared with those with higher education (24.5%–29.6%) in all medical investigation stations. We found consistent associations of some unfavourable health indicators (underweight: ORs 1.1–1.4, higher resting heart rate: all p trend <0.001) with higher myopia prevalence, which point towards lifestyle factors playing an important role in the development of myopia.

Conclusion

Primary preventive measures are needed to curb the observed trend in myopia among Austrian young men. Future research should investigate the impact of modifiable factors on myopia development and progression, particularly lifestyle factors that are dramatically shifting.
Orbital MRI versus fundus photography in the diagnosis of optic nerve hypoplasia and prediction of vision
Authors: Kruglyakova Jacqueline , Garcia-Filion Pamela , Nelson Marvin , Borchert Mark
Published: February 2020

Introduction

In patients with optic nerve hypoplasia (ONH), the visualisation of the optic disc can be challenging and the definitive diagnosis difficult to ascertain without fundus photography. The use of MRI for diagnosis has been reported as a diagnostic alternative with conflicting results. We retrospectively analysed a disease registry to determine the reliability of orbital MRI measurements of the optic nerve diameter to diagnose ONH, and the correlation with vision outcomes.

Materials and methods

From a cohort of 140 patients with ONH (13% unilateral) that had reached age 5 years, we identified 43 subjects who had orbital MRI in addition to fundus photography performed prior to 2 years of age. We compared measurements of the optic nerve diameter from orbital MRI scans to the standard relative optic disc size (disc diameter/disc-macula (DD/DM) distance) by fundus photography. All patients had visual acuity tested at age 5 years. Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to determine the correlation of orbital MRI measurements and fundus photography with the diagnosis of ONH, and with vision outcomes.

Results

Relative disc size (DD/DM)<0.35 showed 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity for the diagnostic confirmation of ONH. The optic nerve diameter measurements by orbital MRI displayed a moderate correlation (rs=0.471; p<0.001) with DD/DM and moderate sensitivity for the diagnosis of ONH. Final visual acuity correlated well with DD/DM measurements by fundus photography (rs=−0.869; p<0.001) and moderately with optic nerve diameter by orbital MRI (rs=−0.635; p<0.001).

Discussion

Orbital optic nerve diameter from MRI scans has moderate reliability in diagnosing ONH and predicting vision outcomes. Fundus photography for measurements of the optic nerve size should remain the reference for diagnostic confirmation of ONH. These data further support the prognostic value of fundus photography for eventual vision outcomes in this population.
Out-of-pocket spending and financial burden among low income adults after Medicaid expansions in the United States: quasi-experimental difference-in-difference study
Authors: Gotanda Hiroshi , Jha Ashish K , Kominski Gerald F , Tsugawa Yusuke
Published: February 2020

Objective

To examine the association between expansion of the Medicaid program under the Affordable Care Act and changes in healthcare spending among low income adults during the first four years of the policy implementation (2014-17).

Design

Quasi-experimental difference-in-difference analysis to examine out-of-pocket spending and financial burden among low income adults after Medicaid expansions.

Setting

United States.

Participants

A nationally representative sample of individuals aged 19-64 years, with family incomes below 138% of the federal poverty level, from the 2010-17 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey.

Main outcomes and measures

Four annual healthcare spending outcomes: out-of-pocket spending; premium contributions; out-of-pocket plus premium spending; and catastrophic financial burden (defined as out-of-pocket plus premium spending exceeding 40% of post-subsistence income). P values were adjusted for multiple comparisons.

Results

37 819 adults were included in the study. Healthcare spending did not change in the first two years, but Medicaid expansions were associated with lower out-of-pocket spending (adjusted percentage change −28.0% (95% confidence interval −38.4% to −15.8%); adjusted absolute change −$122 (£93; €110); adjusted P<0.001), lower out-of-pocket plus premium spending (−29.0% (−40.5% to −15.3%); −$442; adjusted P<0.001), and lower probability of experiencing a catastrophic financial burden (adjusted percentage point change −4.7 (−7.9 to −1.4); adjusted P=0.01) in years three to four. No evidence was found to indicate that premium contributions changed after the Medicaid expansions.

Conclusion

Medicaid expansions under the Affordable Care Act were associated with lower out-of-pocket spending and a lower likelihood of catastrophic financial burden for low income adults in the third and fourth years of the act’s implementation. These findings suggest that the act has been successful nationally in improving financial risk protection against medical bills among low income adults.
Differences in prevalence and associated factors of underweight and overweight/obesity according to rural–urban residence strata among women of reproductive age in Bangladesh: evidence from a cross-sectional national survey
Authors: Hashan Mohammad Rashidul , Das Gupta Rajat , Day Brendan , Al Kibria Gulam Muhammed
Published: February 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the differences in prevalence and factors influencing underweight and overweight/obesity stratified by region of residence among women of reproductive age in Bangladesh.

Design

Secondary analysis of cross-sectional nationwide data.

Setting

This study used Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2014 data.

Participants

A weighted sample of 16 478 women of reproductive age (15–49 years) were included in the analysis.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Using the Asian-specific cut-off for body mass index, the primary outcome of this study was categorised as: underweight (<18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (18.5 to <23.0) kg/m2and overweight/obese (≥23.0 kg/m2) stratified according to rural–urban residence.

Results

More than half of urban women (53%, n=2493) and one-third of rural women (33%, n=3968) were found to be overweight/obese. Around one-fifth of rural women (21%, n=2490) and almost one in eight urban women (12%, n=571) were reported as underweight. In the final multivariable analyses, increasing age, higher educational status and higher order wealth quintile, each had a significant positive association with being overweight/obese and an inverse association with being underweight. Urban unmarried women had lower odds of being overweight/obese compared with their married counterparts. Rural women who used contraceptives had significantly decreased odds (adjusted OR (AOR) 0.8, 95% CI 0.7 to 0.9) of being underweight compared with contraceptive non-users; no such association was noted in urban women. Women from Sylhet division in both urban (AOR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2 to 2.5) and rural regions (AOR 1.5, 95% CI 1.2 to 1.8) had increased odds of being underweight compared with women in Barisal division.

Conclusions

This study found association of multiple factors with both overweight/obesity and underweight among Bangladeshi women of reproductive age. Public health programmes in Bangladesh aiming to prevent the double burden of malnutrition should focus these factors through comprehensive public awareness and cost-effective operational health interventions.
Does the sampling instrument influence corneal culture outcome in patients with infectious keratitis? A retrospective study comparing cotton tipped applicator with knife blade
Authors: Sagerfors Susanna , Ejdervik-Lindblad Birgitta , Söderquist Bo
Published: February 2020

Objective

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of a cotton tipped applicator and a knife blade in obtaining corneal samples in patients with infectious keratitis.

Methods and analysis

This is a retrospective cohort study of patients with suspected infectious keratitis during 2004–2014. Samples for corneal culture were obtained by a cotton tipped applicator and a knife blade, and directly inoculated on GC agar, blood agar and Sabouraud agar.

Results

In all, 355 patients were included. Corneal sampling by cotton tipped applicator yielded a significantly higher rate of patients with positive corneal culture, 156/355 (43.9%), compared with knife blade, 111/355 (31.3%) (p<0.001). On a patient level, the culture results obtained by the cotton tipped applicator and the knife blade were identical in 269/355 (76%) of the patients. The overall agreement between the two instruments on microbial level was 0.66 (Cohen’s kappa 95% CI 0.60 to 0.72).

Conclusion

Corneal sampling by cotton tipped applicator generated a higher rate of positive corneal cultures and a higher proportion of isolated microbes than by knife blade. Future studies with randomised sampling order are needed to establish which instrument, cotton tipped applicator or knife blade, is the most effective in sampling microbes for direct inoculation in patients with infectious keratitis.
Barbell back squat: how do resistance bands affect muscle activation and knee kinematics?
Authors: Reece Madeleine B , Arnold Graham P , Nasir Sadiq , Wang Weijie W , Abboud Rami
Published: February 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to determine whether looped resistance bands affect knee kinematics and lower body muscle activation during the barbell back squat.

Methods

Twenty-six healthy participants (13 female, 13 male) calculated their one repetition maximum (RM) prior to data collection. Each participant performed three squats at both 80% and 40% 1RM wearing a light resistance band, an extra-heavy resistance band and no resistance band.

Vicon 3D motion analysis cameras were used to collect the kinematic data, and Delsys Trigno Lab wireless electromyography (EMG) system was used to measure vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, gluteus maximus, gluteus medius and biceps femoris muscle activity. Peak knee flexion angle, peak knee valgus angle and maximum tibial rotation values were examined. Peak EMG values were also analysed after being normalised and expressed as a percentage of maximum voluntary contraction (MVC).

Results

Gluteus maximus (GM) activity is significantly increased when a resistance band is used during squatting. However, squatting with a resistance band is detrimental to knee kinematics as it leads to an increase in knee valgus angle and maximum tibial rotation angle. A direct correlation is recorded between an increase in resistance and an increase in these two angles.

Conclusions

Squatting with resistance bands is likely to increase the risk of knee injury. Coaches and clinicians who already implement this technique are advised to remove resistance band squats from training and rehabilitation programmes. Further research evaluating the long-term effects of using resistance bands during the barbell back squat should be considered.
Fetal radiation exposure risk in the pregnant neurointerventionalist
Authors: Chen Stephanie H , Brunet Marie-Christine
Published: February 2020

Background

The prevalence of women physicians is steadily rising, but the field of neurointervention remains one of the most male-dominated subspecialties in medicine. A fear of radiation exposure, particularly during pregnancy and childbearing years, may be responsible for deterring some of the best and brightest. This is the first study to examine the amount of maternal and fetal radiation exposure during a pregnant neurointerventional fellow’s training.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the radiation exposure of a neurointerventional fellow prior to and during pregnancy from February 2018 to May 2019 in 758 neurointerventional cases. The collar dosimeter was used to measure overall maternal exposure and an additional fetal dosimeter was worn under two lead apron skirts to estimate fetal radiation exposure.

Results

There was not a significant difference between pre- and post-pregnancy overall maternal radiation exposure as measured by the collar dosimeter (151 mrem pre-pregnancy and 105 mrem during pregnancy, p=0.129). Mean fluoroscopy time and fluoroscopy emission per procedure also did not differ prior to and during pregnancy. Fetal radiation exposure measurements from both the Mirion Genesis Ultra TLD dosimeter as well as the Mirion Instadose dosimeters worn under double lead apron skirts were 0 mrem for all 6 months.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that, when optimal radiation safety practices are implemented, the fetal dose of a pregnant neurointerventionalist is negligible. Further studies and education are necessary to encourage women to choose neurointervention and allow practicing women neurointerventionalists to maintain their productivity during their reproductive years.
Motor-sparing effect of iPACK (interspace between the popliteal artery and capsule of the posterior knee) block versus tibial nerve block after total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kampitak Wirinaree , Tanavalee Aree , Ngarmukos Srihatach , Tantavisut Saran
Published: February 2020

Background and objective

An ultrasound-guided anesthetic technique targeting the interspace between the popliteal artery and capsule of the posterior knee (iPACK) can provide posterior knee analgesia with preserved motor function after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study compared the peroneal nerve motor-sparing effects of iPACK block and tibial nerve block (TNB) when combined with local infiltration analgesia (LIA) and continuous adductor canal block (CACB).

Methods

In this study, 105 patients scheduled for elective TKA were randomized to receive proximal iPACK block (iPACK1), distal iPACK block (iPACK2), or TNB, along with spinal anesthesia, modified LIA, and CACB. The primary outcome was the incidence of common peroneal nerve (CPN) motor blockade. Secondary outcomes included CPN sensory function, tibial sensorimotor function, posterior knee pain, pain score, intravenous morphine requirement, timed up-and-go test, quadriceps muscle strength, range of motion, length of hospital stay, patient satisfaction, and adverse events.

Results

The incidence of CPN motor blockade was significantly higher in the TNB group than in the iPACK1 (p=0.001) and iPACK2 (p=0.001) groups, but was not significant between the iPACK1 and iPACK2 groups (p=0.76). Tibial nerve motor function was more preserved in the iPACK1 and iPACK2 groups than in the TNB group (p<0.001 and p<0.001, respectively). Complete CPN and tibial sensorimotor blockade were not observed in the iPACK2 group. Posterior knee pain score was significantly higher in the iPACK1 group than in other groups during the 24-hour postoperative period (p=0.001).

Conclusions

Compared with TNB, iPACK1 and iPACK2 preserved CPN and tibial nerve motor function to a greater extent. However, iPACK2 did not demonstrate complete CPN and tibial nerve motor blockade while maintaining effective posterior knee pain relief.

Trial registration number

TCTR20180206002.
Wildland fire risk research in Canada
Authors: Johnston Lynn M. , Wang Xianli , Erni Sandy , Taylor Stephen W. , McFayden Colin B. , Oliver Jacqueline A. , Stockdale Chris , Christianson Amy , Boulanger Yan , Gauthier Sylvie , Arseneault Dominique , Wotton B. Mike , Parisien Marc-André , Flannigan Mike D.
Published: February 2020

Despite increasing concern about wildland fire risk in Canada, there is little synthesis of knowledge that could contribute to the development of a comprehensive risk framework for a wide range of values, which is an essential need for the country. With dramatic variability in costs and losses from this natural hazard, there must be more support for complex decision-making under the uncertainty of how to assess and manage risk to coexist with wildland fire. A long history of Canadian wildland fire research offers solid foundational knowledge related to risk, but the key knowledge gaps must be addressed to fully consider risk in a comprehensive manner. We provide a review of the current context in which risk is variably defined, and recommend use of the general paradigm where risk is the product of both the likelihood and the potential impacts of wildland fire. We then synthesize research related to wildland fire risk from the Canadian scientific literature. With this review, we aim to provide a better understanding of research challenges, limitations, and opportunities for future work on fire risk within the country.
Jet cross sections at the LHC and the quest for higher precision
Authors: Bellm Johannes , Buckley Andy , Chen Xuan , Ridder Aude Gehrmann-De , Gehrmann Thomas , Glover Nigel , Höche Stefan , Huss Alexander , Huston Joey , Kuttimalai Silvan , Pires Joao , Plätzer Simon , Re Emanuele
Published: February 2020

We perform a phenomenological study of Z plus jet, Higgs plus jet and di-jet production at the Large Hadron Collider. We investigate in particular the dependence of the leading jet cross section on the jet radius as a function of the jet transverse momentum. Theoretical predictions are obtained using perturbative QCD calculations at the next-to and next-to-next-to-leading order, using a range of renormalization and factorization scales. The fixed order predictions are compared to results obtained from matching next-to-leading order calculations to parton showers. A study of the scale dependence as a function of the jet radius is used to provide a better estimate of the scale uncertainty for small jet sizes. The non-perturbative corrections as a function of jet radius are estimated from different generators.
D-wave effects in diffractive electroproduction of heavy quarkonia from the photon-like $$V\rightarrow Q{\bar{Q}}$$ transition
Authors: Krelina Michal , Nemchik Jan , Pasechnik Roman
Published: February 2020

We analyse the validity of a commonly used identification between structures of the virtual photon$$\gamma ^*\rightarrow Q\bar{Q}$$γ∗→QQ¯and vector meson$$V\rightarrow Q{\bar{Q}}$$V→QQ¯transitions. In the existing studies ofS-wave vector-meson photoproduction in the literature, such an identification is typically performed in the light-front (LF) frame while the radial component of the meson wave function is rather postulated than computed from the first principles. The massive photon-like$$V\rightarrow Q{\bar{Q}}$$V→QQ¯vertex, besides theS-wave component, also contains an extraD-wave admixture in the$$Q{\bar{Q}}$$QQ¯rest frame. However, the relative weight of these contributions cannot be justified by any reasonable nonrelativistic$$Q{\bar{Q}}$$QQ¯potential model. In this work, we investigate the relative role of theD-wave contribution starting from the photon-like quarkonium$$V\rightarrow Q{\bar{Q}}$$V→QQ¯transition in both frames: in the$$Q{\bar{Q}}$$QQ¯rest frame (with subsequent Melosh spin transform to the LF frame) and in the LF frame (without Melosh transform). In both cases, we employ the same radial wave functions found in the potential approach. We show that the photon-like transition imposed in the$$Q{\bar{Q}}$$QQ¯rest frame, with subsequent boosting to the LF frame, leads to significant discrepancies with the experimental data. In the second case, i.e. imposing the photon-like transition straight in the LF frame, we find that the corresponding total$$J/ \psi (1S)$$J/ψ(1S)photoproduction cross sections are very close to those obtained with the “S-wave only”$$V\rightarrow Q{\bar{Q}}$$V→QQ¯transition, both leading to a good description of the data. However, we find that the “S-wave only” transition leads to a better description of photoproduction data for excited (e.g.$$\psi '(2S)$$ψ′(2S)) heavy quarkonium states, which represent a more effective tool for study ofD-wave effects. Consequently, the predictions for production of excited states based on the photon-like structure of$$V\rightarrow Q{\bar{Q}}$$V→QQ¯transition should be treated with a great care due to a much stronger sensitivity of theD-wave contribution to the nodal structure of quarkonium wave functions.
Accelerated expansion of the universe from the perspective of inhomogeneous cosmology
Authors: Bormotova Irina , Kopteva Elena , Churilova Mariia , Stuchlik Zdenek
Published: February 2020

We present a special case of the Stephani solution with spherical symmetry while considering different values of spatial curvature. We investigate the dynamics of the universe evolution in our model, build the R–T-regions for the resulting spacetime and analyze the behavior of the deceleration parameter. The singularities of the model are also discussed. The geometry of the spatial part of the obtained solution is explored.
A DFT investigation of 45 wurtzite (B4)-type compounds: Structural, electronic, linear and nonlinear optical properties
Authors: Gazhulina A. P.
Published: February 2020

This work is a part of a series of investigations devoted to the study of the relationship between nonlinear optical properties and pseudosymmetric features of some groups of crystal compounds [A. P. Gazhulina and M. O. Marychev, Cryst. Struct. Theory Appl. 2, 106 (2013). doi.org/10.4236/csta.2013.23015 ; A. P. Gazhulina and M. O. Marychev, J. Alloys Compd. 623, 413 (2015). doi.org/10.1016/j.jallcom.2014.11.028 ; A. P. Gazhulina and M. O. Marychev, J. Solid State Chem. 239, 170 (2016). doi.org/10.1016/j.jssc.2016.04.034 ]. Crystals of the wurtzite ([Formula: see text]4) structural type (45 crystals) have been considered. In the framework of density functional theory, the structural, electronic, linear and nonlinear optical properties were investigated using the full-potential linearized augment plane wave (FP-LAPW) method. The obtained results are compared to available experimental and computational data. Diagrams “Second-order Nonlinear Susceptibility–Degree of Pseudoinversion” at 1.064 and 0.634 [Formula: see text]m wavelengths were constructed.
AUSPP: A universal short-read pre-processing package
Authors: Gao Lei , Wu Cong , Liu Lin
Published: February 2020

There are many short-read aligners that can map short reads to a reference genome/sequence, and most of them can directly accept a FASTQ file as the input query file. However, the raw data usually need to be pre-processed. Few software programs specialize in pre-processing raw data generated by a variety of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies. Here, we present AUSPP, a Perl script-based pipeline for pre-processing and automatic mapping of NGS short reads. This pipeline encompasses quality control, adaptor trimming, collapsing of reads, structural RNA removal, length selection, read mapping, and normalized wiggle file creation. It facilitates the processing from raw data to genome mapping and is therefore a powerful tool for the steps before meta-analysis. Most importantly, since AUSPP has default processing pipeline settings for many types of NGS data, most of the time, users will simply need to provide the raw data and genome. AUSPP is portable and easy to install, and the source codes are freely available at https://github.com/highlei/AUSPP .
DETECTION OF CANINE PARVOVIRUS TYPE 2 BY A COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE IN-HOUSE PCR
Authors: Yen Sheng-Lun , Hoang Minh , Wang Wei-Chen , Hung Ming-Lung , Chien Chi-Hsien , Chiou Ming-Tang , Lin Chao-Nan
Published: February 2020

Canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2) is an important pathogen that causes anorexia, vomiting, acute gastroenteritis, and bloody diarrhea. CPV-2 was divided into three variants (2a–2c) based on residue 426 of the VP2 protein. Recently, a novel Asian CPV-2c isolate was more prevalent in the Asian continent. The diagnostic tools of CPV-2 are characterized into traditional (such as immunochromatography test) and molecular methods based on their pathogen detection mechanisms. However, the low sensitivity of the immunochromatographic tests is supported by their simplicity and rapid ability to provide results for CPV-2. Surprisingly, some immunochromatography tests showed low sensitivity for the detection of novel CPV-2c compared to a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Sixty rectal swabs were collected from naturally infected dogs with CPV-2 at the Animal Disease Diagnostic Center, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, Taiwan, from 2016 to 2019. A novel in-house QubeMDx PCR system was used for diagnosis of three CPV-2 variants and compared to real-time PCR diagnosis. This diagnostic assay detected all of CPV-2 variants within 30 min and the sensitivity was identical to a real-time PCR assay using clinical samples. This study provides evidence that this novel, commercially available in-house PCR assay (QubeMDx PCR system) provides useful, simple, sensitive, reliable, and rapid diagnosis of three CPV-2 variants in veterinary clinics.