bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANTIBODY RESPONSE TO SEVERAL MALARIA ANTIGENS IS ASSOCIATED WITH PROTECTION FROM SEVERE MALARIA IN UGANDAN CHILDREN
Authors: Okech Brenda , Egwang Thomas , Corran Patrick , Riley Eleanor
Published: February 2017

Background

Malaria is one of the leading causes of morbidity. Both natural infection and irradiated sporozoites have yielded partial and sterile immunity and contain multiple antigens so a malaria vaccine with multiple antigens may be protective. Our hypothesis is that responses to several malaria antigens may protect against severe malaria. Currently various candidate vaccines are being tested and are in various stages. This study is from a case control study conducted in Apac district in Northern Uganda.

Methods

Children with severe and complicated malaria were compared with those having uncomplicated malaria in a matched case-control study. Antibody titers in serum samples of children were assessed by ELISA and parasitaemia was quantified by microscopy.

Results

When all children who had antibodies to at least 4 of the antigens tested were compared to children who responded to less than 4 of the antigens, multiple responders were significantly more prevalent in the mild malaria group. For all the antibodies studied, there was a tendency for the children with mild malaria to have higher OD levels than the children with severe malaria. Children who were responders to AMA1,P. falciparumlysate, SE36, MSP1 42, GPI, MSP2–2FC or MSP2–3D7 were significantly more likely to be in the mild malaria group.

Conclusions

There were significant differences between children with severe and mild malaria for antibodies. Higher levels of these antibodies were associated with protection from severe malaria disease and from high parasitaemia. Our data suggest a role for multiple blood stage antigen vaccines and denatured toxin vaccine supports the development of multiple component vaccines.
COST-BENEFIT ANALYSIS OF MALARIA RAPID DIAGNOSTIC TEST IN ENUGU METROPOLIS, NIGERIA: THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE COMMUNITY PHARMACY PRACTITIONER
Authors: Ezennia Ifeoma , Ekwunife Obinna
Published: February 2017

Background

Malaria is a great health burden in Nigeria. Since 2010, the World Health Organization issued guidelines that call for a shift from presumptive to test-based treatment. However, test-based treatment is still unpopular in community pharmacies in Nigeria. This could be due to unwillingness of customers to spend more for a rapid diagnostic test (RDT). It could also result from lack of interest from community pharmacy practitioners since they may perceive that there is no financial gain attached to the service. This study assessed the costs and benefits of test-based malaria treatment for the community pharmacy practitioner.

Methods

The study was a community pharmacy-based cross sectional survey. Potential benefit of RDT test to the practitioner was determined using customers' willingness-to-pay (WTP) for this service. Average WTP was estimated using contingent valuation. Binary logistic regression was used to assess correlates of WTP. Costs associated with provision of RDT test were estimated. Costing was based on the provider's perspective. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis through Monte Carlo simulation was used to capture parameter uncertainty. The Benefit-cost ratio was calculated to determine study objective.

Results

Average WTP was $1.23 (95% CI: $1.03–$1.44). Educated customers were 1.8 more likely to prefer RDT test before taking malaria treatment. Customers that understood RDT as described in the fact sheet were 18.3 times more likely to prefer RDT test before malaria treatment. The predictive capacity of the model was 18.1%. Average cost [min – max] of the RDT test kit and the pharmacist's time spent for the test was 0.15 [0.13–0.17] and 0.41 [0.18–0.52], respectively. The benefit-cost ration of test-based malaria treatment was 6.7 (95% CI: 6.4–7.0).

Conclusions

Test-based malaria treatment is cost-beneficial for pharmacy practitioners. Return on invested time was approximately 7 times. This finding should be capitalised upon to increase community pharmacy practitioners' interest and uptake of test-based malaria treatment.
EFFECT OF COMMUNITY-BASED SCHEDULED SCREENING AND TREATMENT (CSST) OF MALARIA IN PREGNANCY ON INFANT MALARIA INFECTION IN A SEASONAL MALARIA TRANSMISSION SETTING
Authors: Moneke-Anyanwoke Ngozi , Mwesigwa Julia , Affara Muna , Momodou Jasseh , Clarke Ed , D'Alessandro Umberto , Scott Susana
Published: February 2017

Background

Children born to mothers who had malaria in pregnancy have an increased risk of malaria infection in the first 24 months of life and they also experience earlier episodes of malaria compared to their counterparts. This study compared the pre- and post-seasonal prevalence ofP. falciparuminfection and anti-malarial antibodies among children whose mothers received either intermittent preventive treatment in pregnancy using sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) plus community-based scheduled screening and treatment (CSST) of malaria in pregnancy or standard IPTp-SP.

Methods

In 2015, two cross-sectional surveys were conducted before and after the malaria transmission season among children aged 0–24 months, born to women who participated in a 2-arm cluster-randomised trial to compare CSST plus IPTp-SPvsIPTp-SP alone in the Upper River Region of The Gambia. For each survey, finger prick samples were collected for slide microscopy and indirect ELISA to compare prevalence of malaria parasitaemia and IgG antibodies to 19-kDa merozoite surface protein 1.

Results

Of 905 children recruited in the pre malaria transmission survey, the prevalence of malaria in the overall population, IPTp-SP alone and CSST plus IPTp-SP arms were 1.07%, 2.30% and 0%, respectively. Nearly 70% of children with parasitaemia were aged 1–5 months old. The seroprevalence in children whose mothers received CSST plus IPTp-SP compared to IPTp-SP alone was 10.54%vs11.85%. Seroprevalence analysis and reading of slide microscopy for 1172 children recruited in the second survey as well as final statistical analysis are currently on-going. Final results will be available by November 2016.

Conclusions

Infants whose mothers received CSST plus 1PTp-SP appear to be less likely to have malaria infection compared to those whose mothers received IPTp-SP only. Community scheduled screening and treatment of malaria in pregnancy may also be protective against malaria in children.
SOLUBLE HLA-G LEVEL EFFECT ON GMZ2 SPECIFIC IgG PRODUCTION AFTER IMMUNISATION
Authors: Nouatin Odilon , Ngoa Ulysse Ateba , Dejon Jean Claude , Edoa Jean R , Homoet Andreas , Engelhon Julie Englhon , Massinga-Louembe Marguerite , Esen Meral , Theisen Michael , Sim Kim Lee , Richie Thomas , Luty Adrian Jf , Moutairou Kabirou , Hoffman Stephen , Kremsner Peter , Lell Bertrand , Mordmüller Benjamin , Adegnika Ayola
Published: February 2017

Background

Malaria is a major public health problem particularly in Africa. Despite the relatively good immunogenicity profile of the vaccine candidates in naive population, most of them are poorly immunogenic in malaria endemic population. This could be due to an induction of various immune regulatory mechanisms. It has recently been shown that high levels of an immune regulatory molecule sHLA-G in infants increased the risk of malaria, and question may arise as to whether it can equally impair vaccine induced immune response. In this study we have assessed the correlation between sHLA-G and the immune response induced by GMZ2 a blood stage malaria vaccine candidate.

Methods

It was an observational study nested within a phase Ib trial aiming to assess the safety, immunogenicity and efficacy of GMZ2 adjuvanted with CAF01, on fifty Gabonese adults lifelong exposed toPlasmodiumspp. Three doses of either the vaccine candidate or Rabies vaccine were injected at Day 0, Day 28, Day 56. Peripheral blood sample was collected at Day 0 and Day 7 after the first vaccine administration as well as 28 days after the third vaccine administration (Day 84). sHLA-G level was measured by ELISA on Day 0 and Day 7, and the anti GMZ2, anti MSP3, Glurp IgG concentrations were determined by ELISA on Day 0, 7 and 84. Vaccine efficacy was assessed usingPfSPZChallenge.

Results

sHLA-G level was significantly increased from Day 0 to Day 7 (p=0.004) and correlated with a significant decrease of anti-GMZ2 total IgG (r=–0.35, p=0.04). No correlation was found between sHLAG and anti MSP3, Glurp IgG production. Interestingly, individuals who did not develop malaria after the challenge had a lower level of sHLA-G at baseline (p=0.03).

Conclusions

Vaccination with GMZ2 induces an increase of sHLA-G level resulting in a decrease of vaccine immunogenicity. This could have an implication for the design of malaria vaccine candidates in semi-immune individuals.
ANTIBODY RESPONSES TO SURFACE ANTIGENS OFPLASMODIUM FALCIPARUMGAMETOCYTE-INFECTED ERYTHROCYTES AND THEIR RELATION TO GAMETOCYTAEMIA
Authors: Dinko Bismarck , King Elizabeth , Targett Geoffrey , Sutherland Colin
Published: February 2017

Background

An essential element for continuing transmission ofPlasmodium falciparumis the availability of mature gametocytes in human peripheral circulation for uptake by mosquitoes. Natural immune responses to circulating gametocytes may play a role in reducing transmission from humans to mosquitoes.

Methods

Here, antibody recognition of the surface of mature intra-erythrocytic gametocytes produced either by a laboratory-adapted parasite, 3D7, or by a recent clinical isolate of Kenyan origin (HL1204), was evaluated longitudinally in a cohort of Ghanaian school children by flow cytometry.

Results

This showed that a proportion of children exhibited antibody responses that recognised gametocyte surface antigens on one or both parasite lines. A subset of the children maintained detectable anti-gametocyte surface antigen (GSA) antibody levels during the five week study period. There was indicative evidence that children with anti-GSA antibodies present at enrolment were less likely to have patent gametocytaemia at subsequent visits (OR=0.29, 95% CI: 0.06–1.05; p=0.034).

Conclusions

Our data support the existence of antigens on the surface of gametocyte – infected erythrocytes, but further studies are needed to confirm whether antibodies against them reduce gametocyte carriage. The identification of GSA would allow their evaluation as potential anti-gametocyte vaccine candidates and/or biomarkers for gametocyte carriage.
MULTIDRUG-RESISTANT TUBERCULOSIS (MDR-TB): AN EMERGING PROBLEM IN WEST AFRICA
Authors: Otu Jacob , Gehre Florian , Zingue Dezemon , Kudzawu Samuel , Forson Audrey , Mane Morto , Rabna Paulo , Diarra Bassirou , Kayede Salako , Adebiyi Emmanuel , Kehinde Aderemi , Onyejepu Nneka , Onubogu Catherine , Idigbe Emmanuel , Ba Awa , Diallo Aissatou , Mboup Souleymane , Disse Kodjo , Kadanga Gerard , Dagnra Yaotse , Baldeh Ignatius , Corrah Tumani , Jong Bouke De , Antonio Martin
Published: February 2017

Background

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) remains a clear threat to TB control. There is a paucity of data on DR-TB for many countries especially in sub-Saharan Africa. The study was undertaken to measure the prevalence of DR-TB, including MDR-TB, from West Africa.

Methods

Mycobacterial isolates were obtained from consecutive new and previously treated TB patients from Burkina Faso, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, The Gambia and Togo from December 2012 to December 2014. Phenotypic drug susceptibility testing to first- and second-line anti-TB drugs was performed using BACTEC MGIT 960 system.

Results

Viable isolates from a total of 44% (416/950) new and 56% (534/950) previously treated TB patients were included. HIV results were available for 599 (63%) with estimated HIV-TB co-infection of 21% (95% CI: 18.2−24.9%). Pooled estimate of any DR-TB prevalence among new TB patients was 20% (95% CI: 16.4−24.4%) while for MDR-TB this was 6% (95% CI: 4.1−9.0%). Among previously treated TB patients, these were 53% (95% CI: 48.3−56.9%) and 34% (95% CI: 30.1−38.3%), respectively. Significant factor for the development of MDR-TB was the history of previous anti-TB treatment (Crude OR=0.13; 95% CI: 0.08−0.20; p=<0.001).

Mono-resistance was detected in 12% (95% CI: 10.2−14.5%) with the highest resistance to streptomycin 6% (95% CI: 4.8−7.9%). Pooled estimate of pre-XDR-TB prevalence rate among MDR-TB patients was 21% (95% CI: 15.2−26.9%). Estimated resistance to ofloxacin, kanamycin, capreomycin and kanamycin and capreomycin were 7% (95% CI: 3.5−10.9%), 2% (95% CI: 0.6−5.1%), 9% (95% CI: 5.8−14.5%), and 3% (95% CI: 0.8−5.8%), respectively.

Conclusions

The reported prevalence of MDR-TB and pre-XDR-TB are high compared to WHO estimates. Resistance to streptomycin may indicate a high risk of failure for the WHO standard regimen. MDR-TB patients with resistance to either the fluoroquinolone or injectables may have suboptimal response; thus the need for continuous surveillance of TB resistance.
ROAD TO BUILDING AND SUSTAINING NOVEL CLINICAL RESEARCH CAPACITY IN RESOURCE-LIMITED SETTINGS: LESSONS LEARNT SO FAR FROM RWANDA
Authors: Musanabaganwa Clarisse , Musabyimana Jean Pierre , Karita Etienne , Diop Blondin , Nambajimana Abidan , Dushimiyimana Valentine , Karame Prosper , Russell Jim , Ndoli Jules , Bahati Prince , Hategekimana Theobald , Sendegeya Augustin , Condo Jeannine , Binagwaho Agnes
Published: February 2017

Background

Harnessing research for enhancing capacity for evidence-informed policies is key for sustainability in countries that are still facing poverty-related diseases. During current customised medicine and drug-resistance era, priority has shifted to clinical research making clinical trials a powerful tool in availing tailored and affordable drugs and medical interventions. There is need to address disparities in clinical research capabilities worldwide, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, where disease burden is rampant. We share our achievements and lessons learnt so far from establishing three new clinical research sites among the eleven targeted for in Rwanda.

Methods

Referral, provincial and specialty hospitals have been selected by the Ministry of Health as potential clinical research sites. Based on the International Conference on Harmonization in Good Clinical Practice (ICH-GCP), a baseline assessment was conducted. Three best-scoring hospitals were developed to become clinical research sites by: alignment with the national priorities; acceleration of current laboratory accreditation processes, improvement of data management, clinical infrastructure, financial management systems; careful recruitment, continuous training and a retention plan of critical research staff; collaborations with private clinical research organisations; marketing of research sites to funders; strengthening institutional review boards; creation of local ownership; and diversification of the research portfolio.

Results

Clinical research sites established are Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Kigali (CHUK) in Kigali city, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Butare (CHUB) in Southern province, and Butaro Hospital in Northern province with 26, 26 and 11 dedicated staff, respectively. Sites have minimally a clinical research laboratory under accreditation process, 5 private medical/examination room, a counselling rooms, a data management unit, a waiting area, a pharmacy with restriction-area, administrative area, tele-conference/training room.

Conclusions

Development of novel clinical research capacity in resource-limited settings is feasible, with considerable time and resources. Political initiative is a key element for sustainability. Staff retention is the main challenge. For minimising the risk, partnerships between experienced clinical organisations and sponsors are vital for financial stability and knowledge transfer.
IMPROVING MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH THROUGH COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT IN CLINICAL TRIALS
Authors: Munguambe Khátia
Published: February 2017

Clinical trials contribute to the improvement of health through testing potentially efficacious interventions (e.g. vaccines, drugs, devices, and even behavioural strategies) among selected population segments to provide evidence to support health policy and practice. There are indisputable health benefits, not only to the communities directly involved in the trials but also to the wider population affected by the health problems in question. On the other hand, regardless of the results of the trials, it is assumed that there are immediate benefits disseminated to the whole population of reference resulting from training, resources, services quality, and improvement and local knowledge. Particularly for low-income countries, this assumption is often taken for granted, as the implementation of clinical trials is usually accompanied by infrastructure development, institutional capacity building, and improved standards of care. The actual direct benefit to health and health care delivery, its sustainability, and more importantly, the communities' perceptions of those benefits are seldom measured, because clinical trials often miss the opportunity to evaluate communities' acceptability of the potential intervention, and the extent to which their needs and priorities are met through the trials. Formative research, which must be conducted in advance and during trial implementation, is a valuable approach to address such questions and to recommend appropriate ways of conducting the trials so as to gain optimal synergies with communities' expectations while balancing those with the intended improvement of health. The Manhiça Health research centre takes such approach when implementing complex interventions involving large segments of the population and health services catchment areas, such as entire districts and provinces. This talk focuses on lessons learnt from engaging the community in three different interventions, namely the Malaria Elimination Program in Magude District, the Community Level Interventions for Pre-eclampsia in Maputo and Gaza Provinces, and the Cause of Death Determination using Minimally Invasive Autopsies in Manhiça District, all in Southern Mozambique.
IDENTIFICATION OF NOVEL PLASMA AND SALIVARY BIOSIGNATURES FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF TB DISEASE AND MONITORING OF TREATMENT RESPONSE
Authors: Jacobs Ruschca , Chegou Novel , Walzl Gerhard
Published: February 2017

Background

New tools are urgently needed for the rapid diagnosis of TB disease, especially in resource-constrained settings. We investigated the usefulness of host markers detected in plasma and saliva as biomarkers for the diagnosis of TB disease and monitoring of treatment response.

Methods

We prospectively collected plasma and saliva samples from 55 individuals that presented with signs and symptoms suggestive of TB disease at a health centre in Cape Town, South Africa, prior to the establishment of a clinical diagnosis. Patients were later classified as having TB disease (n=22) or other respiratory diseases (ORD) (n=33), using a combination of clinical, radiological and laboratory findings. The concentrations of 74 host markers were evaluated in plasma and saliva samples from all study participants using a multiplex cytokine platform.

Results

Out of the 74 host markers evaluated, 18 markers detected in plasma, and two detected in saliva, showed potential as TB diagnostic candidates, with area under the ROC curve ≥0.70. A six-marker plasma biosignature comprising of NCAM, SAP, IL-1ρ, sCD40L, IL-13 and Apo A-1 diagnosed TB disease with a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI: 86.3−100%) and specificity of 89.3%(95% CI, 67.6–97.3%), whereas a five-marker salivary biosignature comprising of IL-1ρ, IL-23, ECM-1, HCC1 and fibrinogen diagnosed TB disease with a sensitivity of 88.9% (95% CI: 76.7−99.9%) and specificity of 89.7% (95% CI: 60.4−96.6%), both regardless of HIV status. The plasma concentrations of 11 of the host markers and 8 of the markers detected in saliva changed during treatment, indicating that they may be useful in monitoring of TB treatment response.

Conclusions

We have identified novel plasma and salivary biosignatures which may be useful in the diagnosis of TB disease and monitoring of the response to TB treatment. Our findings have potential to be translated into point-of-care screening tests after further validation.
Individual patient data meta-analysis of combined treatments versus psychotherapy (with or without pill placebo), pharmacotherapy or pill placebo for adult depression: a protocol
Authors: Weitz Erica , Kleiboer Annet , van Straten Annemieke , Hollon Steven D , Cuijpers Pim
Published: February 2017

Introduction

There are many proven treatments (psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy or their combination) for the treatment of depression. Although there is growing evidence for the effectiveness of combination treatment (psychotherapy + pharmacotherapy) over pharmacotherapy alone, psychotherapy alone or psychotherapy plus pill placebo, for depression, little is known about which specific groups of patients may respond best to combined treatment versus monotherapy. Conventional meta-analyses techniques have limitations when tasked with examining whether specific individual characteristics moderate the effect of treatment on depression. Therefore, this protocol outlines an individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis to explore which patients, with which clinical characteristics, have better outcomes in combined treatment compared with psychotherapy (alone or with pill placebo), pharmacotherapy and pill placebo.

Methods and Analysis

Study searches are completed using an established database of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on the psychological treatment of adult depression that has previously been reported. Searches were conducted in PubMed, PsycInfo, Embase and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. RCTs comparing combination treatment (psychotherapy + pharmacotherapy) with psychotherapy (with or without pill placebo), pharmacotherapy or pill placebo for the treatment of adult depression will be included. Study authors of eligible trials will be contacted and asked to contribute IPD. Conventional meta-analysis techniques will be used to examine differences between studies that have contributed data and those that did not. Then, IPD will be harmonised and analysis using multilevel regression will be conducted to examine effect moderators of treatment outcomes.

Dissemination

Study results outlined above will be published in peer-reviewed journals. Study results will contribute to better understanding whether certain patients respond best to combined treatment or other depression treatments and provide new information on moderators of treatment outcome that can be used by patients, clinicians and researchers.

Trial registration number

CRD42016039028.
Food parenting practices and their association with child nutrition risk status: comparing mothers and fathers
Authors: Watterworth Jessica C. , Hutchinson Joy M. , Buchholz Andrea C. , Darlington Gerarda , Randall Simpson Janis A. , Ma David W.L. , Haines Jess ,   Guelph Family Health Study
Published: February 2017

In Canada, little is known about how food parenting practices are associated with young children’s dietary intakes and no studies have examined food parenting practices of Canadian fathers. This study aimed to examine associations between food parenting practices and preschool-age children’s nutrition risk. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of thirty-one 2-parent families; 31 mothers, 31 fathers, and 40 preschool-age children. Parents completed an adapted version of the Comprehensive Feeding Practices Questionnaire. We calculated children’s nutrition risk using their NutriSTEP score. To account for sibling association, we used generalized estimating equations, adjusting for child age, sex, household income, and parental body mass index. Both mothers’ and fathers’ involvement of children in meal preparation were associated with lower child nutrition risk (mother [Formula: see text] = –3.45, p = 0.02; father [Formula: see text] = –1.74, p = 0.01), as were their healthy home environment scores (mother [Formula: see text] = –8.36, p < 0.001; father [Formula: see text] = –2.69, p = 0.04). Mothers’ encouragement of balance and variety was associated with lower nutrition risk ([Formula: see text] = –8.88, p = 0.01), whereas mothers’ use of food as a reward was associated with higher nutrition risk ([Formula: see text] = 4.67, p < 0.001). Fathers’ modelling of healthy behaviours was associated with lower nutrition risk ([Formula: see text] = –2.21, p = 0.01), whereas fathers’ restriction for health ([Formula: see text] = 2.21, p = 0.03) and pressure-to-eat scores ([Formula: see text] = 3.26, p = <0.001) were associated with higher nutrition risk. No associations were found between child nutrition status and parental emotion regulation, control, monitoring, or restriction for weight. In conclusion, both mothers’ and fathers’ food parenting practices are associated with their children’s nutrition status. Fathers should be included in food parenting practices interventions.
Quantifying the spatial scale of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) recruitment synchrony
Authors: Weber Michael J. , Brown Michael L. , Wahl David H. , Shoup Daniel E.
Published: February 2017

Understanding spatial and temporal fluctuations in animal populations remains a central theme in ecology. Here, we investigated the extent of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) recruitment synchrony across North America in relation to a suite of climatic conditions. Common carp were collected from 21 populations up to a linear distance of 2300 km between the most southern and northern locations. Age-frequency histograms were used to estimate year-class strength, and correlation coefficients were used to evaluate synchrony among populations and environmental variables. We then evaluated relationships between common carp recruitment and winter growing degree-days (GDD), summer GDD, precipitation, wind events, and the El Niño Southern Oscillation Index (ENSO). Common carp recruitment was synchronous up to 756 km but asynchronous at larger scales. Winter and summer GDD, precipitation, and wind were also synchronous among locations up to 1640 km apart. Summer GDD appeared most influential to common carp recruitment but varied across latitudes, with negative effects identified at low latitudes and positive effects identified at higher latitudes. Our results provide new insights into the spatial scale of recruitment synchrony of a non-native freshwater fish and indicate that climatic conditions at local to regional scales likely influence recruitment patterns.
High-resolution seafloor mapping to describe coastal denning habitat of a Canadian species at risk: Atlantic wolffish (Anarhichas lupus)
Authors: Novaczek Emilie , Devillers Rodolphe , Edinger Evan , Mello Luiz
Published: February 2017

The Atlantic wolffish (Anarhichas lupus) is listed by Canada’s Species at Risk Act as a species of special concern. Effective conservation strategies rely on accurate knowledge of habitat requirements, distribution, and vulnerabilities; however, current management plans cite lack of wolffish habitat data as a key limitation. For this study, coastal Atlantic wolffish denning habitat was characterized and mapped with high-resolution multibeam data and seafloor video in Conception Bay, Newfoundland. Four Atlantic wolffish dens, used for feeding, spawning, and egg-guarding, were surveyed and mapped. On the basis of the geomorphology and substrate of these dens, a supervised classification was applied to the multibeam bathymetry and backscatter data to identify other potential denning areas. Predicted denning habitat, limited by the occurrence of suitable rocky substrate, is most prevalent in shallow waters (<22 m) distributed over 1.6 km2 (5.9%) of the study area. Shallow denning habitat is exposed to seasonal maximum temperatures that exceed the threshold for normal Atlantic wolffish egg development, a potential vulnerability for nearshore wolffish. As management efforts progress, this information will guide research and prioritization of conservation areas.
A Novel Method Towards Time-Efficient Fault Analysis of Analog and Mixed-Signal Circuits
Authors: Brenkuš Juraj , Stopjaková Viera , Čerňanová Viera , Arbet Daniel , Nagy Lukáš , Sedlák Vladimír
Published: February 2017

A novel method of nodal impedance calculation is presented in this paper. This method is capable of time-efficient calculation of arbitrary two-point complex impedance in an analog and mixed-signal circuit and could improve the development time of impedance-based tests both in DC and AC domain. A fault simulation methodology based on the proposed method is described in detail. Several experiments are provided that prove the time efficiency of the method. Experimental application showing the benefits of the method on a real circuit is provided as well.
Free Vibration of Damaged Frame Structures Considering the Effects of Axial Extension, Shear Deformation and Rotatory Inertia: Exact Solution
Authors: Eroglu Ugurcan , Tufekci Ekrem
Published: February 2017

In this paper, a procedure based on the transfer matrix method for obtaining the exact solution to the equations of free vibration of damaged frame structures, considering the effects of axial extension, shear deformation, rotatory inertia, and all compliance components arising due to the presence of a crack, is presented. The crack is modeled by a rotational and/or translational spring based on the concept of linear elastic fracture mechanics. Only the in-plane motion of planar structures is considered. The formulation is validated through some examples existing in the literature. Additionally, the mode shapes and natural frequencies of a frame with pitched roof are provided. The variation of natural frequencies with respect to the crack location is presented. It is concluded that considering the axial compliance, and axial-bending coupling due to the presence of a crack results in different dynamic characteristics, which should be considered for problems where high precision is required, such as for the crack identification problems.
DEVELOPMENT OF A BELTED OCCUPANT FE MODEL FOR PREDICTION OF CHEST INJURY RISK BASED ON STRESS AND STRAIN ANALYSIS
Authors: XIAO SEN , YANG JIKUANG , HUANG JING , CRANDALL JEFF R.
Published: February 2017

This study aims to investigate the chest injury in terms of chest deflections and rib fracture risks based on the stress/strain analysis via a belted occupant finite element model (BOM). The BOM was established using a human body model from the Global Human Body Models Consortium (GHBMC) and the model was validated against a frontal sled test with a Post-Mortem Human Subjects (PMHS). The bio-fidelity of the belted occupant model was then evaluated according to measured data from experimental test regarding detailed torso kinematics and seatbelt forces. The BOM was then used for prediction of the chest injury via calculated injury related parameters from simulations, including stress and strain distributions on the whole ribcage, which could not be fully measured in PMHS test. A study of chest injury risk was conducted with the validated model. Special concern is given to the injuries on rib fractures and chest deflections which have been correlated to the calculated stresses and strains. The results demonstrate that the validation can sufficiently meet the reconstruction of the test and the chest injury outcomes obtained from the simulation can fit the experiment, particularly the fracture risk of the rib 6 to the rib 11 on the chest along the seatbelt path. The current study provides a reference for virtual design and improvement of the chest injury investigation to better prevent chest injuries.
X-Linked Retinoschisis in Juveniles: Follow-Up by Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Hu Qin-rui , Huang Lv-zhen , Chen Xiao-li , Xia Hui-ka , Li Tian-qi , Li Xiao-xin
Published: February 2017

Purpose.To explore the structural progression of X-linked retinoschisis (XLRS) in patients by using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT).Design.Retrospective, observational study.Methods.Patients who were diagnosed with XLRS by genetic testing underwent comprehensive ophthalmological examinations from December 2014 to October 2016. Each eye was measured by SD-OCT using the same clinical protocol. A correlation between best-corrected visual acuity (VA) and SD-OCT measurements was observed.Results.Six patients demonstrated retinoschisis (12 eyes) and typical foveal cyst-like cavities (10 eyes) on SD-OCT images with a mean logMAR VA of 0.48. The median age was 7.5 years at the initial visit. Their foveal retinal thickness (516.9 μm) and choroid thickness (351.4 μm) decreased at a rate of 38.1 and 7.5 μm, respectively, at the 10.5-month follow-up visit; however, there were no significant differences (P=0.622andP=0.406, resp.). There was no significant correlation between VA, the foveal retinal thickness, and subfoveal choroid thickness.Conclusions.SD-OCT images for XLRS patients during the juvenile period revealed no significant changes in the fundus structure, including the foveal retinal thickness and choroid thickness within one-year follow-up. There was a lack of correlation between VA, foveal retinal thickness, and subfoveal choroid thickness.
An Improved Robust Beamforming Design for Cognitive Multiantenna Relay Networks
Authors: Zhao Lulu , Liang Guang , Liu Huijie
Published: February 2017

This paper investigates the robust relay beamforming design for the multiantenna nonregenerative cognitive relay networks (CRNs). Firstly, it is proved that the optimal beamforming matrix could be simplified as the product of a variable vector and the conjugate transposition of a known channel response vector. Then, by exploiting the optimal beamforming matrix with simplified structure, an improved robust beamforming design is proposed. Analysis and simulation results show that, compared with the existing suboptimal scheme, the proposed method can achieve higher worst-case channel capacity with lower computational complexity.
Bioinformatics Analysis Reveals MicroRNAs Regulating Biological Pathways in Exercise-Induced Cardiac Physiological Hypertrophy
Authors: Xu Jiahong , Liu Yang , Xie Yuan , Zhao Cuimei , Wang Hongbao
Published: February 2017

Exercise-induced physiological cardiac hypertrophy is generally considered to be a type of adaptive change after exercise training and is beneficial for cardiovascular diseases. This study aims at investigating exercise-regulated microRNAs (miRNAs) and their potential biological pathways. Here, we collected 23 miRNAs from 8 published studies. MirPath v.3 from the DIANA tools website was used to execute the analysis, and TargetScan was used to predict the target genes. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses were performed to identify potential pathways and functional annotations associated with exercise-induced physiological cardiac hypertrophy. Various miRNA targets and molecular pathways, such as Fatty acid elongation, Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), and ECM-receptor interaction, were identified. This study could prompt the understanding of the regulatory mechanisms underlying exercise-induced physiological cardiac hypertrophy.
Determinants of Dyadic Relationship and Its Psychosocial Impact in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease and Their Spouses
Authors: Karlstedt Michaela , Fereshtehnejad Seyed-Mohammad , Aarsland Dag , Lökk Johan
Published: February 2017

The caregiver-care receiver relationship (mutuality) in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and its association with motor and non-motors symptoms, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and caregiver burden have not fully been investigated. The aim of our study was to explore if (1) the level of mutuality perceived by PD-patients and PD-partners differs, (2) different factors are associated with perceived mutuality by PD-patients and PD-partners, and (3) mutuality is associated with PD-patients health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and caregiver burden. We collected data on motor signs (UPDRS III), non-motor manifestations (NMSQuest), PD-patients’ cognition (IQCODE), mutuality scale (MS), PD-patients’ HRQoL (PDQ8), and caregiver burden (CB) from 51 PD dyads. Predictors were identified using multivariate regression analyses. Overall, the dyads rated their own mutuality as high with no significant difference between the dyads except for the dimension of reciprocity. PD-patients’ MS score (p=.001) and NMSQuest (p≤ .001) were significant predictors of PDQ8. Strongest predictor of CB was PD-partners’ MS score (<.001) and IQCODE (p=.050). In general, it seems that non-motor symptoms contribute to a larger extent to the mutual relationship in PD-affected dyads than motor disabilities.
Magnetoelastic Principal Parametric Resonance of a Rotating Electroconductive Circular Plate
Authors: Li Zhe , Hu Yu-da , Li Jing
Published: February 2017

Nonlinear principal parametric resonance and stability are investigated for rotating circular plate subjected to parametric excitation resulting from the time-varying speed in the magnetic field. According to the conductive rotating thin circular plate in magnetic field, the magnetoelastic parametric vibration equations of a conductive rotating thin circular plate are deduced by the use of Hamilton principle with the expressions of kinetic energy and strain energy. The axisymmetric parameter vibration differential equation of the variable-velocity rotating circular plate is obtained through the application of Galerkin integral method. Then, the method of multiple scales is applied to derive the nonlinear principal parametric resonance amplitude-frequency equation. The stability and the critical condition of stability of the plate are discussed. The influences of detuning parameter, rotation rate, and magnetic induction intensity are investigated on the principal parametric resonance behavior. The result shows that stable and unstable solutions exist when detuning parameter is negative, and the resonance amplitude can be weakened by changing the magnetic induction intensity.
Synthesis and Characterization of Ag-Modified V2O5Photocatalytic Materials
Authors: Solis-Casados Dora Alicia , Escobar-Alarcon Luis , Infantes-Molina Antonia , Klimova Tatyana , Serrato-Garcia Lizbeth , Rodriguez-Castellon Enrique , Hernandez-Lopez Susana , Dorazco-Gonzalez Alejandro
Published: February 2017

V2O5powders modified with different theoretical silver contents (1, 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt% as Ag2O) were obtained with acicular morphologies observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Shcherbinaite crystalline phase is transformed into the Ag0.33V2O5crystalline one with the incorporation and increase in silver content as was suggested by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. With further increase in silver contents the Ag2O phase appears. Catalysts were active in photocatalytic degradation of malachite green dye under simulated solar light, which is one of the most remarkable facts of this work. It was found that V2O5-20Ag was the most active catalytic formulation and its activity was attributed to the mixture of coupled semiconductors that promotes the slight decrease in the rate of the electron-hole pair recombination.
Effect of Maize Starch Substitution on Physicochemical and Sensory Attributes of Gluten-Free Cookies Produced from Nixtamalized Flour
Authors: Pérez-Carrillo Esther , Frías-Escobar Alicia , Gutiérrez-Mendívil Karla , Guajardo-Flores Sara , Serna-Saldívar Sergio O.
Published: February 2017

Nixtamalized corn flour (NCF) has a good dietary fiber profile that makes it an alternative to produce gluten-free cookies because upon hydration and mixing it yields a cohesive and machinable dough. In order to improve the texture and acceptance of cookies, five different experimental treatments were devised and compared with a cookie made with refined wheat flour. A waxy native maize or pregelatinized cross-linked starches in concentrations of 5% and 10% were evaluated. Results showed that the spread factor, diameter, and thickness of the different types of cookies were not statistically different (p>0.05). With the exception of the control and cookies made with 10% waxy starch which were rated with lower scores, the rest of the treatments were not significantly different in terms of sensory attributes. The texture of cookies evaluated by panelists related to the objective texture was determined with the texture analyzer. Cookies made from the composite flour containing 10% pregelatinized cross-linked were softer or had lower maximum positive force after 5 days of storage. This particular gluten-free cookie contained 65% more dietary fiber compared to the wheat flour counterpart and had the best sensory attributes among all treatments including the cookie made with refined wheat flour.
Exhaled Nitric Oxide in Systemic Sclerosis Lung Disease
Authors: Kozij Natalie K. , Granton John T. , Silkoff Philip E. , Thenganatt John , Chakravorty Shobha , Johnson Sindhu R.
Published: February 2017

Background. Exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) is a potential biomarker to distinguish systemic sclerosis (SSc) associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and interstitial lung disease (ILD). We evaluated the discriminative validity, feasibility, methods of eNO measurement, and magnitude of differences across lung diseases, disease-subsets (SSc, systemic lupus erythematosus), and healthy-controls.Methods. Consecutive subjects in the UHN Pulmonary Hypertension Programme were recruited. Exhaled nitric oxide was measured at 50 mL/s intervals using chemiluminescent detection. Alveolar and conducting airway NO were partitioned using a two-compartment model of axial diffusion (CMAD) and the trumpet model of axial diffusion (TMAD).Results. Sixty subjects were evaluated. Using the CMAD model, control subjects had lower median (IQR) alveolar NO than all PAH subjects (2.0 (1.5, 2.5) versus 3.14 ppb (2.3, 4.0),p=0.008). SSc-ILD had significantly lower median conducting airway NO compared to controls (1009.5 versus 1342.1 ml⁎ppb/s,p=0.04). SSc-PAH had increased median (IQR) alveolar NO compared to controls (3.3 (3.0, 5.7) versus 2.0 ppb (1.5, 2.5),p=0.01). SSc-PAH conducting airway NO inversely correlated with DLCO (r−0.88 (95% CI −0.99, −0.26)).Conclusion. We have demonstrated feasibility, identified that CMAD modeling is preferred in SSc, and reported the magnitude of differences across cases and controls. Our data supports discriminative validity of eNO in SSc lung disease.
Normal Reflection Characteristics of One-Dimensional Unsteady Flow Shock Waves on Rigid Walls from Pulse Discharge in Water
Authors: Yan Dong , Zhao Jinchang , Niu Shaoqing
Published: February 2017

Strong shock waves can be generated by pulse discharge in water, and the characteristics due to the shock wave normal reflection from rigid walls have important significance to many fields, such as industrial production and defense construction. This paper investigates the effects of hydrostatic pressures and perturbation of wave source (i.e., charging voltage) on normal reflection of one-dimensional unsteady flow shock waves. Basic properties of the incidence and reflection waves were analyzed theoretically and experimentally to identify the reflection mechanisms and hence the influencing factors and characteristics. The results indicated that increased perturbation (i.e., charging voltage) leads to increased peak pressure and velocity of the reflected shock wave, whereas increased hydrostatic pressure obviously inhibited superposition of the reflection waves close to the rigid wall. The perturbation of wave source influence on the reflected wave was much lower than that on the incident wave, while the hydrostatic pressure obviously affected both incident and reflection waves. The reflection wave from the rigid wall in water exhibited the characteristics of a weak shock wave, and with increased hydrostatic pressure, these weak shock wave characteristics became more obvious.
First Integrals and Hamiltonians of Some Classes of ODEs of Maximal Symmetry
Authors: Ndogmo J. C.
Published: February 2017

Complete sets of linearly independent first integrals are found for the most general form of linear equations of maximal symmetry algebra of order ranging from two to eight. The corresponding Hamiltonian systems are constructed and it is shown that their general solutions can also be found by a simple superposition formula from the solutions of a scalar second-order source equation.
The Effectiveness of Various Salacca Vinegars as Therapeutic Agent for Management of Hyperglycemia and Dyslipidemia on Diabetic Rats
Authors: Zubaidah Elok , Rukmi Putri Widya Dwi , Puspitasari Tiara , Kalsum Umi , Dianawati Dianawati
Published: February 2017

The aim of this study was to explore the potency of salacca vinegar made from various Indonesian salacca fruit extracts as therapeutic agent for hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia for STZ-induced diabetic rats. The rats were grouped into untreated rats, STZ-induced diabetic rats without treatment, and STZ-induced diabetic rats treated with Pondoh salacca vinegar, Swaru salacca vinegar, Gula Pasir salacca vinegar, Madu salacca vinegar, or Madura salacca vinegar. Parameter observed included blood glucose, total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), triglyceride (TG), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and pancreas histopathology of the samples. The results demonstrated that all salacca vinegars were capable of reducing blood sugar (from 25.1 to 62%) and reducing LDL (from 9.5 to 14.8 mg/dL), TG (from 58.3 to 69.5 mg/dL), MDA (from 1.1 to 2.2 mg/dL), and TC (from 56.3 to 70.5 mg/dL) as well as increasing HDL blood sugar of STZ-induced diabetic Wistar rats (from 52.3 to 60 mg/dL). Various salacca vinegars were also capable of regenerating pancreatic cells. Nevertheless, the ability of Swaru salacca vinegar to manage hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia appeared to be superior to other salacca vinegars. Swaru salacca vinegar is a potential therapeutic agent to manage hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia of STZ-induced diabetic rats.
Autologous Heat Shock Protein Peptide Vaccination for Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma: Impact of Peripheral PD-L1 Expression on Response to Therapy
Authors: Bloch Orin , Lim Michael , Sughrue Michael E. , Komotar Ricardo J. , Abrahams John M. , O'Rourke Donald M. , D'Ambrosio Anthony , Bruce Jeffrey N. , Parsa Andrew T.
Published: February 2017

Purpose: Standard therapy for newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GBM) is surgical resection, followed by concurrent radiotherapy and temozolomide chemotherapy. In this phase II clinical trial, the addition of an autologous heat-shock protein vaccine to standard therapy was evaluated. Tumor-induced immunosuppression, mediated by expression of PD-L1 on tumor and circulating immune cells, may impact the efficacy of vaccination. Expression of PD-L1 on peripheral myeloid cells was evaluated for the first time as a predictor of survival.

Experimental Design: In this single arm, phase II study, adult patients with GBM underwent surgical resection followed by standard radiation and chemotherapy. Autologous vaccine (Prophage) was generated from resected tumors and delivered in weekly vaccinations after completion of radiotherapy. The primary endpoint was overall survival.

Results: Forty-six patients received the vaccine with a median overall survival of 23.8 months [95% confidence interval (CI), 19.8–30.2]. Median overall survival for patients with high PD-L1 expression on myeloid cells was 18.0 months (95% CI, 10.0–23.3) as compared with 44.7 months (95% CI, incalculable) for patients with low PD-L1 expression (hazard ratio 3.3; 95% CI, 1.4–8.6; P = 0.007). A multivariate proportional hazards model revealed MGMT methylation, Karnofsky performance status, and PD-L1 expression as the primary independent predictors of survival.

Conclusions: Vaccination with autologous tumor-derived heat shock proteins may improve survival for GBM patients when combined with standard therapy and warrants further study. Systemic immunosuppression mediated by peripheral myeloid expression of PD-L1 is a recently identified factor that may significantly impact vaccine efficacy. Clin Cancer Res; 23(14); 3575–84. ©2017 AACR.