bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomarker‐guided management reduces exacerbations in non‐eosinophilic asthma in pregnancy: A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Murphy Vanessa E. , Porsbjerg Celeste M. , Robijn Annelies L. , Gibson Peter G.
Published: October 2019

Background and objective

The aim of this secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of asthma management in pregnancy was to determine the treatment decision differences between a symptom control algorithm and a fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO)‐guided algorithm, and whether the approach was effective in non‐eosinophilic asthma (NEA).

Methods

In this double‐blind parallel group RCT, women with asthma were randomized prior to 22 weeks gestation to treatment adjustment according to a symptom control algorithm (control group), or a FENO‐guided algorithm (inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) dose adjusted according to FENO with long‐acting beta‐agonist (LABA) added for uncontrolled symptoms). NEA was classified as baseline blood eosinophils <0.26 × 109/L and FENO ≤29 ppb. Exacerbations requiring medical intervention were recorded.

Results

Among 220 non‐smokers (n = 109 control, n = 111 FENO), 1006 treatment decisions were made, with significant group differences after the first and second algorithm applications. 53% of women had NEA. Treatment was better targeted to phenotype in the FENO group: ICS use increased in eosinophilic asthma (EA, 48–86%), while ICS/LABA increased in NEA (11–30%). Fewer women in the FENO group had exacerbations during pregnancy in NEA only (18.9% FENO vs 44% control, P = 0.006).

Conclusion

The FENO algorithm was more effective in treating NEA, resulting in reduced exacerbations, compared to a symptom control algorithm. This was not the result of ICS overtreatment, since the benefits occurred at a lower median daily ICS dose. Two applications of the FENO‐guided algorithm, one month apart, were sufficient to achieve beneficial effects in terms of asthma exacerbations, among pregnant women with asthma.
Sedimentological and petrographic evolution of a fluvio‐lacustrine environment during the onset of volcanism: Volcanically‐induced forcing of sedimentation and environmental responses
Authors: Di Capua Andrea , Scasso Roberto A.
Published: October 2019

This work focuses on the transition from the Las Leoneras to Lonco Trapial Formations, in the lower part of the Early Jurassic succession of the incipient rift phase of the Cañadon Asfalto Basin (western part of Chubut Province – Patagonia, Argentina). Twenty lithofacies have been identified and grouped into seven facies associations on the basis of field characteristics (sedimentological and lithological) and optical microscope analysis, from two localities representing proximal and distal locations in the basin. The spatial relationship between all the lithofacies provided a four‐dimensional reconstruction of the palaeoenvironmental evolution, showing how the original, clastic sedimentation in alluvial/fluvial and lake environments was modified by short‐lived volcanic events during three volcanic cycles, and how the environment reacted after the input of huge amounts of volcaniclastics. Progradation of small deltas and subaqueous lobes, retrogradation caused by rising lake levels, and frequent erosion of valleys were typical processes in this environment. When explosive volcanism began, the original tectono‐climatic control on sedimentation was replaced by the volcanic control, and the volcanically‐forced sedimentation broke the equilibrium among production, delivery and accumulation of sediments. The nature of the volcanic eruptions and the different propensity of volcanic lithofacies to produce particles of different size and types (lithics, crystals and glass) are also analyzed. The role of volcanism in the production and transport of great volumes of sediments across sedimentary systems needs to be carefully re‐examined, and the analysis on the variability in the composition of volcaniclastic deposits must take into account that volcaniclastic particle types may not simply reflect a linear deepening in the dissection of magmatic arcs through time but are often controlled by the style of the eruptions and the lithological variation of the volcanic products.
Influence of administration of antimicrobial medications after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy on surgical site infections: A retrospective study of 308 dogs
Authors: Clark Andrea C. , Greco Justin J. , Bergman Philip J.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To determine the influence of prophylactic administration of oral antimicrobial medications after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) on surgical site infections (SSI) and antimicrobial‐resistant infections.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Sample population

Dogs treated with unilateral TPLO (n = 308) between January 2013 and December 2015.

Methods

Medical records were reviewed for signalment, surgically treated limb, duration of surgery and anesthesia, postoperative administration of antimicrobial medications, antibiotic agent, surgeon, and development of SSI. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, simple linear regression, analysis of variance, Fisher's protected least significant difference, and χ2testing.

Results

Data were collected from records of 31 dogs that did not receive antimicrobial medications and 277 dogs that did receive oral antimicrobial medications for 14 days after TPLO. Superficial incisional SSI was detected in two of 31 dogs that did not receive antimicrobial medications and in 48 of 277 dogs that did receive antimicrobial medications (P= .1194). Deep incisional SSI occurred in two of 31 dogs that did not receive antimicrobial medications and in 27 of 277 dogs that did receive antimicrobial medications (P= .5513). Antibiotic‐resistant deep incisional SSI occurred in two of 31 dogs that did not receive antimicrobial medications and in 18 of 277 dogs that did receive antimicrobial medications (P= .9920). Body weight correlated with deep incisional SSI and resistant infections. Prolonged duration of surgery and anesthesia were associated with superficial incisional SSI, deep incisional SSI, and antibiotic resistance. Surgeons influenced deep incisional SSI.

Conclusion

Previously reported predisposing factors for infection were confirmed, but postoperative administration of antimicrobial medications was not protective against SSI nor did it predispose to antibiotic resistance in our clinical setting.

Clinical significance

This study does not provide evidence to support administration of prophylactic oral antimicrobial medications after unilateral TPLO.
Effect of subcutaneous closure technique on incisional complications and postoperative pain in cats undergoing midline celiotomy: A randomized, blinded, controlled trial
Authors: Lopez Daniel J. , Hayes Galina M. , Fefer Gilad , McCalla Sarah A. , LaLonde‐Paul Denise F. , Flanders James A. , Sumner Julia P.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To compare the effect of three methods of subcutaneous tissue closure on postoperative incisional complications and pain in cats.

Study design

Single‐center, randomized, blinded, controlled trial conducted in a veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals

Two hundred ninety‐seven cats undergoing midline celiotomy for ovariohysterectomy (n = 280) or other abdominal procedure (n = 17).

Methods

Cats (n = 297) were assigned to one of three subcutaneous closure methods: simple continuous apposition with tacking to the rectus fascia (n = 108, quilting [Q] group); simple continuous apposition (SC; n = 94); no subcutaneous closure (NC; n = 95). Primary outcomes were incidence of seroma formation, postoperative pain, and surgical site infection or dehiscence. Active follow‐up was obtained at 10 and 30 days postoperatively.

Results

Baseline characteristics did not differ between groups. Seroma was less common in the Q group (13.0%) than in the NC (27.3%) and SC (25.9%) groups (P = .03). Compared with the other two groups, the relative risk of seroma formation in the Q group was 0.49 (95% CI = 0.28‐0.86, P = .01). Median mechanical pain thresholds were higher (indicating greater comfort) in cats with subcutaneous sutures (Q and SC = 1.23 [interquartile range (IQR), 0.2‐2.6 N], NC = 0.83 [IQR, 0‐1.87 N], P = .04) on the day after surgery.

Conclusion

Closing subcutaneous tissues with a quilting closure pattern reduced seroma formation in cats undergoing celiotomy.

Clinical significance

Placing a quilting suture pattern in the subcutaneous tissues after celiotomy is a simple low‐cost measure that reduces seromas in cats. Abstaining from subcutaneous closure cannot be recommended because of increased seroma formation and pain.
SCREENING OF FACTORS INFLUENCING EXO-POLYGALACTURONASE PRODUCTION BY ASPERGILLUS NIGER ATCC 120120 USING TWO-LEVEL FRACTIONAL FACTORIAL DESIGN
Authors: Pagarra Halifah , A. Rahman Roshanida , - Rachmawaty , Abdul Manas Nor Hasmaliana
Published: October 2019

Exo-polygalacturonase was produced by Aspergillus niger ATCC 120120 in a solid-state fermentation using Nephrolepis biserrata leaves. Factors affecting the production of exo-polygalacturonase were determined using a two-level fractional factorial design. The screening process for six factors; pH, incubation time, temperature, pectin concentration, inoculum size and moisture content, that influence the production of exo-polygalacturonase by A. niger was performed. The result of variance analysis (ANOVA) suggested that there were four statistically significant (P < 0.005) factors in the production of exo-polygalacturonase by A. niger. These factors were incubation time, temperature, pectin concentration and moisture content. The statistical analysis shows that the linear mathematical model is significant with coefficient of determination (R2) value of 0.9711. The optimum production of exo-polygalacturonase obtained using the model in this study was at 40.00 U/g.
An Environment Friendly Approach to Reduce the Breakdown Pressure of High Strength Unconventional Rocks by Cyclic Hydraulic Fracturing
Authors: Tariq Zeeshan , Mahmoud Mohamed , Abdulraheem Abdulazeez , Al-Shehri Dhafer , Murtaza Mobeen
Published: October 2019

Unconventional hydrocarbon resources mostly found in highly stressed, overpressured, and deep formations, where the rock strength and integrity are very high. When fracturing these kinds of rocks, the hydraulic fracturing operation becomes much more challenging and difficult and in some cases reaches to the maximum pumping capacity limits without generating any fracture. This reduces the operational gap to optimally place the hydraulic fractures. Current stimulation methods to reduce the fracture pressures involvement with adverse environmental effects and high costs due to the entailment of water mixed with huge volumes of chemicals. In this study, a new environment friendly approach to reduce the breakdown pressure of the unconventional rock is presented. The new method incorporates the injection of chemical-free fracturing fluid in a series of cycles with a progressive increase of the pressurization rate in each cycle. This study is carried out on different cement blocks with varying petrophysical and mechanical properties to simulate real rock types. The results showed that the new method of cyclic fracturing can reduce the breakdown pressure to 24.6% in ultra-tight rocks, 19% in tight rocks, and 14.8% in medium- to low-permeability rocks. This reduction in breakdown pressure helped to overcome the operational challenges in the field and makes the fracturing operation much greener.
Numerical Simulation of the Resistance and Self-Propulsion Model Tests1
Authors: Lungu Adrian
Published: October 2019

The paper proposes a series of numerical investigations performed to test and demonstrate the capabilities of a Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equation (RANSE) solver in the area of complex ship flow simulations. The focus is on a complete numerical model for hull, propeller, and rudder that can account for the mutual interaction between these components. The paper presents the results of a complex investigation of the flow computations around the hull model of the 3600 TEU MOERI containership (KCS hereafter). The resistance for the hull equipped with a rudder, the propeller open-water (POW hereafter) computations, as well as the self-propulsion simulation are presented. Comparisons with the experimental data provided at the Tokyo 2015 Workshop on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in Ship Hydrodynamics are given to validate the numerical approach in terms of the total and wave resistance coefficients, sinkage and trim, thrust and torque coefficients, propeller efficiency, and local flow features. Verification and validation based on the grid convergence tests are performed for each computational case. Discussions on the efficiency of the turbulence models used in the computations as well as on the main flow features are provided aimed at clarifying the complex structure of the flow around the ship stern.
Magnetic quadrupole assemblies with arbitrary shapes and magnetizations
Authors: Gu Hongri , Boehler Quentin , Ahmed Daniel , Nelson Bradley J.
Published: October 2019

Magnetic quadrupole modules form stable assemblies with arbitrary two-dimensional shapes and magnetizations.
Mesenchymal stem cells promote healing of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-related peptic ulcer through paracrine actions in pigs
Authors: Xia Xianfeng , Chan Kai Fung , Wong Gerald Tsz Yau , Wang Peng , Liu Liu , Yeung Baldwin Po Man , Ng Enders Kwok Wai , Lau James Yun Wong , Chiu Philip Wai Yan
Published: October 2019

Stem cell therapy enhances healing of NSAID-related peptic ulcer through reducing inflammation and stimulating cell proliferation and angiogenesis.
A randomized clinical efficacy study targeting mPGES1 or EP4 in dogs with spontaneous osteoarthritis
Authors: Robertson-Plouch Carol , Stille John R. , Liu Peng , Smith Claire , Brown Dorothy , Warner Margaret , Hu Leijun , Fisher Matthew J.
Published: October 2019

An inhibitor of microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 demonstrates proof-of-concept clinical efficacy in dogs with osteoarthritis.
More random motor activity fluctuations predict incident frailty, disability, and mortality
Authors: Li Peng , Lim Andrew S. P. , Gao Lei , Hu Chelsea , Yu Lei , Bennett David A. , Buchman Aron S. , Hu Kun
Published: October 2019

More random fluctuations in daily motor activity predict deteriorated quality of life and high death rate in elderly subjects.
Inhibition of mitochondrial translation overcomes venetoclax resistance in AML through activation of the integrated stress response
Authors: Sharon David , Cathelin Severine , Mirali Sara , Di Trani Justin M. , Yanofsky David J. , Keon Kristine A. , Rubinstein John L. , Schimmer Aaron D. , Ketela Troy , Chan Steven M.
Published: October 2019

Tedizolid, an oxazolidinone-class antibiotic, overcomes resistance to venetoclax in AML.
Novel Diversity and Virulence Patterns Found in New Isolates of Cydia pomonella Granulovirus from China
Authors: Fan Jiangbin , Wennmann Jörg T. , Wang Dun , Jehle Johannes A.
Published: October 2019

CpGV is a highly virulent pathogen of the codling moth (CM). It is registered and widely applied as a biocontrol agent in nearly all apple-growing countries worldwide. The emergence of CpGV resistance and the increasing lack of chemical control options require improvements to current control strategies. Natural CpGV isolates, as well as resistance-breaking isolates selected in resistant CM strains, have provided resources for improved resistance-breaking CpGV products. Here, we report novel CpGV isolates collected in China, which have new resistance-breaking capacities and may be an important asset for future application in the biological control of codling moths.
Genome Sequence of Listeria innocua Strain MEZLIS26, Isolated from a Goat in South Africa
Authors: El Zowalaty Mohamed E. , Hickman Rachel A. , Moura Alexandra , Lecuit Marc , Zishiri Oliver T. , Noyes Noelle , Järhult Josef D.
Published: October 2019

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Listeria innocua
strain MEZLIS26, isolated from a healthy goat in Flagstaff, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. The genome was sequenced using the Illumina MiSeq platform and had a length of 2,800,777 bp, with a G+C content of 37.4%, 2,755 coding DNA sequences (CDSs), 49 transfer RNAs (tRNAs), and 4 noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs).
Abnormal arterial anatomy and an unexpected intracranial haemorrhage
Authors: Bannerman Kieran
Published: October 2019

A baby boy was born at term by spontaneous vaginal delivery to non-consanguineous parents following an unremarkable pregnancy. He was admitted to his local neonatal intensive care unit shortly after birth following several episodes of eye-rolling, colour change and apnoea. He had bilateral parieto-occipital cephalohaematomata, scattered petechiae and intermittent hypotonia. He was otherwise neurologically normal. A septic screen was completed and antibiotics and aciclovir were given. Cranial ultrasound, cerebral function monitoring and electroencephalography were normal. An echocardiogram demonstrated normal function and intracardiac anatomy but was suspicious for a dysplastic aortic arch and anomalous left pulmonary artery–aorta connection thus he was transferred to the regional paediatric cardiology centre where cardiac CT (figure 1) was undertaken. CT brain (figure 2) was performed simultaneously to delineate the cerebral vascular anatomy but demonstrated an intracranial lesion that accounted for the baby’s presentation.

Figure 1

3D reconstruction of cardiac CT demonstrates, from this posterior perspective, the course and calibre of the major systemic and pulmonary arteries and venous return.

Figure 2

CT brain was undertaken at the time of cardiac CT to establish the cerebral arterial vascular anatomy.

Questions

What diagnosis was confirmed by cardiac CT?

Scimitar syndrome

Partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage

Major aortopulmonary collateral arteries

Neonatal pulmonary embolus

Arterial tortuosity syndrome

What is the inheritance pattern of this condition?

Sporadic

Autosomal dominant with high penetrance

Autosomal dominant with low penetrance

Autosomal recessive

X linked

Which of these features is not associated with this diagnosis?

Increased risk of stroke

Pulmonary artery stenosis

Abdominal ascites

Joint hypermobility

Facial dysmorphia

What abnormality is demonstrated on CT brain?

Neonatal stroke

Subdural haematoma

Normal cranial sutures

Extradural haematoma

Ruptured intracranial dermoid cyst

Answers can be found on page 02.
Congenital choroidal melanocytoma in a child with ocular melanocytosis
Authors: Maniar Arpita , Jakati Saumya , Kaliki Swathi
Published: October 2019

A 1-day-old child was brought to the clinic for evaluation of enlarged right eye (OD). On examination, OD showed buphthalmos with diffuse scleral melanocytosis, fleshy blackish-brown extrascleral mass with corneal extension, and secondary glaucoma. Anterior segment evaluation revealed darkly pigmented iris and fundus evaluation OD revealed a darkly pigmented choroidal lesion. The left eye was within normal limits. A clinical diagnosis of choroidal melanocytoma with ocular melanocytosis was made. Enucleation OD followed by orbital implant was performed. Histopathology showed features of diffuse ocular melanocytosis involving limbus, iris, ciliary body, choroid, sclera, optic nerve head, optic nerve sheath, along with choroidal melanocytoma with extrascleral tumour extension. We presume that choroidal melanocytoma may have arisen from ocular melanocytosis.
The association of tryptophan and phenylalanine are associated with arsenic-induced skin lesions in a Chinese population chronically exposed to arsenic via drinking water: a case–control study
Authors: Wei Yaping , Jia Chaonan , Lan Yuan , Hou Xiangqing , Zuo Jingjing , Li Jushuang , Wang Tao , Mao Guangyun
Published: October 2019

Objectives

We investigated the association of specific serum amino acids (AAs) with the odds of arsenic-induced skin lesions (AISL) and their ability to distinguish patients with AISL from people chronically exposed to arsenic.

Design

Case–control study.

Setting

Three arsenic-exposed villages in Wuyuan County, Hetao Plain, Inner Mongolia, China were evaluated.

Participants

Among the 450 residents aged 18–79 years, who were chronically exposed to arsenic via drinking water, 56 were diagnosed as having AISL (defined as cases). Another 56 participants without AISL, matched by gender and age (±1 year) from the same population, were examined as controls.

Main outcome measures and methods

AA levels were determined by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry-based metabolomics analysis. Potential confounding variables were identified via a standardised questionnaire and clinical examination. Multivariable conditional logistic regression model and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were performed to investigate the relationship between specific AAs and AISL.

Results

Tryptophan and phenylalanine levels were negatively associated with AISL (p<0.05). Compared with that in the first quartile, the adjusted OR of AISL in the second, third and fourth quartiles were decreased by 44%, 88% and 79% for tryptophan and 30%, 80% and 80% for phenylalanine, respectively. The combination of these two higher-level AAs showed the lowest OR for AISL (OR=0.08; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.25; p<0.001). Furthermore, both AAs showed a moderate ability to distinguish patients with AISL from the control, with the area under the curve (AUC; 95% CI) as 0.67 (0.57 to 0.77) for tryptophan and 0.70 (0.60 to 0.80) for phenylalanine (p<0.05). The combined pattern with AUC (95% CI) was 0.72 (0.62 to 0.81), showing a sensitivity of 76.79% and specificity of 58.93% (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Specific AAs may be linked to AISL and play important roles in early AISL identification.

Trial Registration number

NCT02235948.
Costs of switching to low global warming potential inhalers. An economic and carbon footprint analysis of NHS prescription data in England
Authors: Wilkinson Alexander J K , Braggins Rory , Steinbach Ingeborg , Smith James
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs) contain propellants which are potent greenhouse gases. Many agencies propose a switch to alternative, low global warming potential (GWP) inhalers, such as dry powder inhalers (DPIs). We aimed to analyse the impact on greenhouse gas emissions and drug costs of making this switch.

Setting

We studied National Health Service prescription data from England in 2017 and collated carbon footprint data on inhalers commonly used in England.

Design

Inhalers were separated into different categories according to their mechanisms of action (eg, short-acting beta-agonist). Within each category we identified low and high GWP inhalers and calculated the cost and carbon impact of changing to low GWP inhalers. We modelled scenarios for swapping proportionally according to the current market share of each equivalent DPI (model 1) and switching to the lowest cost pharmaceutically equivalent DPI (model 2). We also reviewed available data on the carbon footprint of inhalers from scientific publications, independently certified reports and patents to provide more accurate carbon footprint information on different types of inhalers.

Results

If MDIs using HFA propellant are replaced with the cheapest equivalent DPI, then for every 10% of MDIs changed to DPIs, drug costs decrease by £8.2M annually. However if the brands of DPIs stay the same as 2017 prescribing patterns, for every 10% of MDIs changed to DPIs, drug costs increase by £12.7M annually. Most potential savings are due to less expensive long-acting beta-agonist (LABA)/inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) inhalers. Some reliever inhalers (eg, Ventolin) have a carbon footprint over 25 kg CO2e per inhaler, while others use far less 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFA134a) (eg, Salamol) with a carbon footprint of <10 kg CO2e per inhaler. 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-Heptafluoropropane (HFA227ea) LABA/ICS inhalers (eg, Flutiform) have a carbon footprint over 36 kg CO2e, compared with an equivalent HFA134a combination inhaler (eg, Fostair) at <20 kg CO2e. For every 10% of MDIs changed to DPIs, 58 kt CO2e could be saved annually in England.

Conclusions

Switching to DPIs would result in large carbon savings and can be achieved alongside reduced drug costs by using less expensive brands. Substantial carbon savings can be made by using small volume HFA134a MDIs, in preference to large volume HFA134a MDIs, or those containing HFA227ea as a propellant.
Bacterial antibiotic resistance development and mutagenesis following exposure to subminimal inhibitory concentrations of fluoroquinolones in vitro: a systematic literature review protocol
Authors: Ching Carly , Orubu Ebiowei S.F. , Wirtz Veronika J. , Zaman Muhammad H.
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Antibiotic resistance (AR) is among the most pressing global health challenges. Fluoroquinolones are a clinically important group of antibiotics that have wide applicability in both humans and animals. While many drivers of AR are known, the impact of medicine quality on AR remains largely unknown. The aim of this review is to systematically evaluate the evidence of the impact of in vitro subinhibitory antibiotic exposure, a major tenet of substandard antibiotics, on the development of AR and mutagenesis, using fluoroquinolones as a case study.

Methods and analysis

EMBASE, Web of Science and PubMed will be systematically searched for primary experimental in vitro studies, from earliest available dates within each database (1947, 1965 and 1966, respectively) through 2018, related to subinhibitory fluoroquinolone exposure and AR. A specifically developed non-weighted tool will be used to critically assess the evidence. Subgroup analyses will be performed for different variables and outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required as no primary data are to be collected. The completed systematic review will be disseminated through conference meeting presentations and a peer-reviewed publication.
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders from childhood to adulthood: a Swedish population-based naturalistic cohort study of adoptees from Eastern Europe
Authors: Landgren Valdemar , Svensson Leif , Gyllencreutz Emelie , Aring Eva , Grönlund Marita Andersson , Landgren Magnus
Published: October 2019

Background

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are a global health concern. To further understand FASD in adulthood is a major public health interest.

Objective

To describe the clinical characteristics of young adults with FASD adopted from orphanages to a socially more favourable and stable rearing environment as children.

Design

Prospective observational cohort study

Setting

Western Sweden

Participants

A population-based cohort of 37 adoptees diagnosed with FASD in childhood.

Outcome measures

Assessment consisted of clinical evaluations of social, medical, psychiatric, neuropsychological, adaptive and ophthalmological status by a physician, ophthalmologist, orthoptist and psychologist.

Results

Out of 37 adoptees with FASD, 36 (15 females) were evaluated at a median age of 22 years (range 18–28) and a mean follow-up time of 15.5 years (range 13–17). Twenty (56%) were dependent on social support. Sexual victimisation was reported by nine (26%). In 21 individuals with fetal alcohol syndrome, growth restriction in height and head circumference of approximately −1.8 SD persisted into adulthood. Of 32 examined, 22 (69%) had gross motor coordination abnormalities. High blood pressure was measured in nine (28%). Ophthalmological abnormalities were found in 29 of 30 (97%). A median IQ of 86 in childhood had declined significantly to 71 by adulthood (mean difference: 15.5; 95% CI 9.5–21.4). Psychiatric disorders were diagnosed in 88%, most commonly attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (70%). Three or more disorders were diagnosed in 48%, and 21% had attempted suicide. The median Clinical Global Impression-Severity score was 6 = ‘severely ill’.

Conclusion

Major cognitive impairments, psychiatric morbidity, facial dysmorphology, growth restriction and ophthalmological abnormalities accompanies FASD in adulthood. Recognition of FASD in childhood warrants habilitation across the lifespan.
Pertussis over two decades: seroepidemiological study in a large population of the Siena Province, Tuscany Region, Central Italy
Authors: Marchi Serena , Montomoli Emanuele , Remarque Edmond J , Monteverde Spencer Geraldo Tadinho , Azzarello Angela , Viviani Simonetta , Trombetta Claudia Maria
Published: October 2019

Objectives

To evaluate seroprevalence againstBordetellapertussisin Tuscany, a large Italian region, from 1992 to 2005 and from 2013 to 2016.

Design

Seroepidemiological study.

Participants

1812 serum samples collected in Tuscany from subjects older than 12 years from 1992 to 2005 and from 2013 to 2016.

Outcome measures

Specific antibody levels were determined by means of standard commercial ELISA using a dual cut-off of 50 and 125 IU/mL as markers of past and recent infection/vaccination, respectively.

Results

The highest values of IgG titres were observed in 1992–1994 in all subjects (69.5 IU/mL), with prevalence values of subjects with IgG titres of >50 and >125 IU/mL of 68.3% and 23.8%, respectively. IgG titres decreased in the years thereafter (37.8 IU/mL in 2002–2005), together with prevalence values (41.7% and 8.1% in 2002–2005). In 2013–2016, both IgG titres and prevalence values showed a slight increase (50.6 IU/mL, 53.9% and 14.7%, respectively). IgG titres and prevalence followed the same age-related trend in all time periods considered, with the highest values in subjects aged 12–22 years. The lowest values were found in the age group of subjects aged 23–35 years (OR 0.54).

Conclusions

Since 2002, approximately half of the population over 22 years of age have low IgG titres and are presumably susceptible to acquiring and transmitting pertussis infection. In addition, in 2013–2016, almost one-third of subjects aged 12–22 years, that is, the age group most likely to have been vaccinated against pertussis in infancy, had low antibody levels. Improving vaccination coverage and implementing careful surveillance are therefore recommended in order to prevent morbidity and mortality due to pertussis.
The effects of aerobic exercise intensity on memory in older adults
Authors: Kovacevic Ana , Fenesi Barbara , Paolucci Emily , Heisz Jennifer J.
Published: October 2019

Aerobic exercise may enhance memory in older adults. However, the optimal intensity and underlying mechanism are unclear. This community-based study examined the effect of aerobic exercise intensity on memory and general cognitive abilities. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was examined as a potential mechanism. Sixty-four sedentary older adults participated in 1 of 3 groups: (i) high-intensity interval training (HIIT); (ii) moderate continuous training (MCT); or (iii) stretching control (CON). Prior to and following the intervention, high-interference memory was assessed using a Mnemonic Similarity task and executive functions were assessed using Go Nogo and Flanker tasks. HIIT led to the greatest memory performance compared with MCT and CON (F[2,55] = 6.04, p = 0.004) and greater improvements in memory correlated with greater increases in fitness (rs (46) = 0.27, p = 0.03). Exercise intensity seemed to matter less for executive functioning, as positive trends were observed for both HIIT and MCT. No significant differences in BDNF were found between groups. Overall, these results suggest that aerobic exercise may enhance memory in older adults, with the potential for higher intensity exercise to yield the greatest benefit. While our findings suggest that BDNF does not regulate these adaptations, the mechanisms remain to be determined.

Novelty High-intensity interval training results in the greatest memory performance in inactive older adults compared with moderate continuous training or stretching. Improvement in fitness correlates with improvement in memory performance.
Effect of infill materials on vibration isolation efficacy of geocell-reinforced soil beds
Authors: Venkateswarlu Hasthi , Hegde A.
Published: October 2019

This paper investigates the isolation efficacy of geocell-reinforced foundation beds infilled with different materials through a series of block resonance tests. The geocell made with a novel polymeric alloy (NPA) was used in the experimental investigation. In total, five different cases — namely, unreinforced, geocell-reinforced silty sand, geocell-reinforced sand, geocell-reinforced slag, and geocell-reinforced aggregate — were considered. Presence of the geocell has resulted in improvement of screening efficacy of the foundation bed regardless of the infill material. The displacement amplitude of the geocell-reinforced bed cases was reduced by 68%, 64%, 61%, and 59%, respectively, for aggregate, slag, sand, and silty sand infill cases as compared to the unreinforced condition. Maximum isolation efficiency was observed in the presence of aggregate, among the four different infill materials. In the presence of aggregate infill, the shear modulus of the foundation bed was improved by 150%. Similarly, the peak particle velocity and peak acceleration were reduced by 57% and 48%, respectively. Further, the efficacy of mass spring dashpot (MSD) analogy was studied in predicting the frequency–displacement response of different reinforced cases. From the analytical study, a significant improvement in damping ratio of the foundation bed was observed in the presence of geocell reinforcement.
Probing double parton scattering via associated open charm and bottom production in ultraperipheral pA collisions
Authors: Huayra Edgar , de Oliveira Emmanuel G. , Pasechnik Roman
Published: October 2019

In this article, we propose a novel channel for phenomenological studies of the double-parton scattering (DPS) based upon associated production of charm$$c{\bar{c}}$$cc¯and bottom$$b{\bar{b}}$$bb¯quark pairs in well-separated rapidity intervals in ultraperipheral high-energy proton–nucleus collisions. This process provides direct access to the double-gluon distribution in the proton at small-xand enables one to test the factorized DPS pocket formula. We have made the corresponding theoretical predictions for the DPS contribution to this process at typical LHC energies and beyond and we compute the energy-independent (but photon momentum fraction dependent) effective cross section.
An explanation for dark matter and dark energy consistent with the standard model of particle physics and General Relativity
Authors: Deur Alexandre
Published: October 2019

Analyses of internal galaxy and cluster dynamics typically employ Newton’s law of gravity, which neglects the field self-interaction effects of General Relativity. This may be why dark matter seems necessary. The universe evolution, on the other hand, is treated with the full theory, General Relativity. However, the approximations of isotropy and homogeneity, normally used to derive and solve the universe evolution equations, effectively suppress General Relativity’s field self-interaction effects and this may introduce the need for dark energy. Calculations have shown that field self-interaction increases the binding of matter inside massive systems, which may account for galaxy and cluster dynamics without invoking dark matter. In turn, energy conservation dictates that the increased binding must be balanced by an effectively decreased gravitational interaction outside the massive system. In this article, such suppression is estimated and its consequence for the Universe’s evolution is discussed. Observations are reproduced without need for dark energy.
Quantum gravity effect on the Hawking radiation of spinning dilaton black hole
Authors: Gecim Ganim , Sucu Yusuf
Published: October 2019

The quantum gravity correction to the Hawking temperature of the 2+1 dimensional spinning dilaton black hole is studied by using the Hamilton-Jacobi approach in the context of the Generalized Uncertainty Principle (GUP). It is observed that the modified Hawking temperature of the black hole depends on both black hole and the tunnelling particle properties. Moreover, it is observed that the mass and the angular momentum of the scalar particle have the same effect on the Hawking temperature of the black hole, while the mass and total angular momentum (orbital+spin) of Dirac particle have different effect. Furthermore, the mass and total angular momentum (orbital+spin) of vector boson particle have a similar effect that of Dirac particle. Also, thermodynamical stability and phase transition of the black hole are discussed for scalar, Dirac and vector boson in the context of GUP, respectively. And, it is observed that the scalar particle probes the black hole as stable whereas, as for Dirac and vector boson particles, it might undergoes second-type phase transition to become stable while in the absence of the quantum gravity effect all of these particle probes the black hole as stable.
The complexity of properties of transformation semigroups
Authors: Fleischer Lukas , Jack Trevor
Published: October 2019

We investigate the computational complexity for determining various properties of a finite transformation semigroup given by generators. We introduce a simple framework to describe transformation semigroup properties that are decidable in [Formula: see text]. This framework is then used to show that the problems of deciding whether a transformation semigroup is a group, commutative or a semilattice are in [Formula: see text]. Deciding whether a semigroup has a left (respectively, right) zero is shown to be [Formula: see text]-complete, as are the problems of testing whether a transformation semigroup is nilpotent, [Formula: see text]-trivial or has central idempotents. We also give [Formula: see text] algorithms for testing whether a transformation semigroup is idempotent, orthodox, completely regular, Clifford or has commuting idempotents. Some of these algorithms are direct consequences of the more general result that arbitrary fixed semigroup equations can be tested in [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we show how to compute left and right identities of a transformation semigroup in polynomial time. Finally, we show that checking whether an element is regular is [Formula: see text]-complete.
AN ARITHMETIC PURE-JUMP MULTI-CURVE INTEREST RATE MODEL
Authors: HESS MARKUS
Published: October 2019

We propose a multi-curve model involving interest rates and spreads which are modeled by arithmetic martingale processes being larger than some arbitrarily chosen constant. Under our mean-reverting pure-jump approach, we derive tractable martingale representations for the OIS rate, the spread, as well as the LIBOR rate, and provide analytical caplet price formulae. In a second part, we introduce an extended jump-diffusion version of our model and investigate hedging and the computation of Greeks under this new specification. As a by-product, we infer the related arithmetic pure-jump single-curve model. We finally consider the modeling of future information in multi-curve interest rate markets by enlarged filtrations and deduce the related OIS and LIBOR rate representations as well as the corresponding information premium.
Digital Innovation in the Public Sector: The Role of Embeddedness in Socio-Technical Transitions
Authors: Kompella Lakshminarayana
Published: October 2019

Organizations have diverse options to improve their performance. With the advances in ICT, several organizations attempt a technology-based solution by digitizing and automation. Indeed, to begin with, it is appropriate, but there are societal challenges. The theories available in the literature explain the reasons for certain societal challenges and actions, but there is also a constant expansion of the theories. This paper adds to the expansion by considering ICT innovations such as digitalization. The social, political, cultural, and economic entities in which organizations operate influence and get influenced by organizational responses. There are connections between organizations and entities; we can refer to these as embeddedness. The purpose of this paper is in identifying a framework and the types of embeddedness. The phenomenon, organizational embeddedness, requires observing it in its setting and is performed using a case study methodology. E-Governance interacts with various entities and provides diverse analytic and heuristic views; hence the author uses E-Governance cases from India. The developed framework assists organizations in providing inputs towards improving their internal complements. In doing so, organizations can not only better respond to societal challenges but also enable other entities in the environment to coevolve.
THE ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF TIED AID AND LOCAL CONTENT REQUIREMENTS FOR CLIMATE FINANCE
Authors: ROMÁN MARÍA VICTORIA , ARTO IÑAKI , ANSUATEGI ALBERTO , GALARRAGA IBON
Published: October 2019

The Paris Agreement states that from 2020 developed countries will mobilize at least USD 100 billion per year to support climate action in developing countries. The attainment of this objective involves decisions by donor countries about the channel and destination of climate finance disbursements. This paper explores how the spending conditions associated to different disbursement options can affect the opportunities for donors to expand their exports. In particular, using a Multiregional Input-Output Model, it finds that donors have an economic incentive for choosing bilateral channels that enable to tie aid to the detriment of multilateral ones, such as the Green Climate Fund. On the other hand, local content requirements imposed by recipient countries do not substantially affect donors’ exports, since they do not reduce intermediate exports, which represent a relevant share of the total exports generated by the mitigation and adaptation actions analysed.
Cigarette smoke exposure alters phosphodiesterases in human structural lung cells
Authors: Zuo Haoxiao , Faiz Alen , van den Berge Maarten , Mudiyanselage Senani N. H. Rathnayake , Borghuis Theo , Timens Wim , Nikolaev Viacheslav O. , Burgess Janette K. , Schmidt Martina
Published: October 2019

Cigarette smoke (CS), a highly complex mixture containing more than 4,000 compounds, causes aberrant cell responses leading to tissue damage around the airways and alveoli, which underlies various lung diseases. Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are a family of enzymes that hydrolyze cyclic nucleotides. PDE inhibition induces bronchodilation, reduces the activation and recruitment of inflammatory cells, and the release of various cytokines. Currently, the selective PDE4 inhibitor roflumilast is an approved add-on treatment for patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with chronic bronchitis and a history of frequent exacerbations. Additional selective PDE inhibitors are being tested in preclinical and clinical studies. However, the effect of chronic CS exposure on the expression of PDEs is unknown. Using mRNA isolated from nasal and bronchial brushes and lung tissues of never smokers and current smokers, we compared the gene expression of 25 PDE coding genes. Additionally, the expression and distribution of PDE3A and PDE4D in human lung tissues was examined. This study reveals that chronic CS exposure modulates the expression of various PDE members. Thus, CS exposure may change the levels of intracellular cyclic nucleotides and thereby impact the efficiency of PDE-targeted therapies.
Impact of menopausal hormone formulations on pituitary-ovarian regulatory feedback
Authors: Kling Juliana M. , Dowling N. Maritza , Bimonte-Nelson Heather A. , Gleason Carey E. , Kantarci Kejal , Manson JoAnn E. , Taylor Hugh S. , Brinton Eliot A. , Lobo Rogerio A. , Cedars Marcelle I. , Pal Lubna , Neal-Perry Genevieve , Naftolin Frederick , Harman S. Mitchell , Miller Virginia M.
Published: October 2019

Changes in pituitary-ovarian hormones across the menopausal transition have multiple physiological consequences. However, little is known about how the major types of postmenopausal hormone therapy (HT) affect pituitary-ovarian hormonal relationships. This study evaluated these relationships in recently menopausal women (52.45 ± 2.49 yr of age) in the Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study (KEEPS) who were compliant to randomized, double-blinded treatment with oral conjugated equine estrogen (o-CEE; n = 109), transdermal 17β-estradiol (t-E2; n = 107), or placebo ( n = 146). Androstenedione, testosterone, 17β-estradiol, estrone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) were measured in serum before (baseline) and 48 mo after randomization to treatment. Descriptive summaries of hormone levels were performed, and multiple regression analyses were used to examine the effects of o-CEE, t-E2, and placebo on these hormone levels at 48 mo, adjusting for baseline levels. A network analysis examined the covariance of changes in hormone levels over the 48 mo within treatment groups. As expected, at 48 mo of treatment, hormone levels differed between women in the two active treatment groups compared with placebo, and network analysis indicated stronger relationships among hormone levels in the t-E2 and o-CEE groups compared with placebo. Associations among testosterone, 17β-estradiol, FSH, and LH differed between the o-CEE group compared with t-E2 and placebo groups. Thus, two common HT regimens differentially alter pituitary-ovarian hormone levels, altering feedback cycles and interhormonal associations in recently menopausal women. These interactions provide the basis for future studies investigating the impact of hormonal modulation of aging, including cognitive decline in women.
Augmented cerebral blood velocity in response to isometric handgrip exercise in women with a history of preeclampsia
Authors: Miller Kathleen B. , Miller Virginia M. , Harvey Ronée E. , Ranadive Sushant M. , Joyner Michael J. , Barnes Jill N.
Published: October 2019

Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy described as a condition of excessive sympathoexcitation. PE places a woman at increased risk for lifelong hypertension and cognitive impairment. Cerebral blood velocity is blunted in response to a vasoactive stimulus in women with a history of PE. This study investigated how a sympathoexcitatory stimulus affects cerebral blood velocity in women with a history of PE. Middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAv) and beat-to-beat mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) were measured in postmenopausal women with a history of PE ( n = 21; age = 59 ± 5 yr) and a history of a normotensive pregnancy (NP; n = 27; age = 58 ± 4 yr), at baseline, during isometric handgrip to fatigue (IHG) followed by postexercise ischemia (PEI), and a recovery period (REC). Baseline MAP and MAP responses to IHG and PEI did not differ between groups. MCAv at baseline and throughout the stimulus was lower in PE women compared with NP women ( P < 0.05 for all). MCAv increased during IHG in both groups ( P < 0.05). This increase in MCAv was greater in PE compared with NP women during IHG and REC (IHG: PE 13 ± 2% vs. NP 9 ± 2%; REC: PE 3 ± 2% vs. NP −2 ± 2%; P < 0.05 for both). Thus, a history of PE is associated with low baseline cerebral blood velocity but an augmented response to a sympathoexcitatory stimulus. These changes in cerebral blood flow regulation may lead to an increased risk for cognitive impairment in women with a history of PE.