bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of malocclusion, oral parafunctions and temporomandibular disorder‐pain in Italian schoolchildren: An epidemiological study
Authors: Perrotta Stefania , Bucci Rosaria , Simeon Vittorio , Martina Stefano , Michelotti Ambra , Valletta Rosa
Published: March 2019

Background

The prevalence of malocclusion, temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and oral parafunctions is highly debated in children population.

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of malocclusion, self‐reported oral parafunctions and TMD‐pain in Italian schoolchildren and to assess the association between the examined factors.

Methods

A total of 700 children aged 9‐11 years were selected among six public schools in Campania region (Italy). Molar relationship, overjet, overbite and cross‐bite were assessed through a clinical examination. Furthermore, the subjects were demanded to fill in a validated questionnaire for TMD‐pain screening and the short form of the Oral Behaviours Checklist. Descriptive statistics were used to report the frequencies. The associations between occlusal traits, oral parafunctions and TMD‐pain were analysed with a Pearson chi‐square test, as expressed by odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals. The significance level was set at P < 0.05.

Results

Molar Class I was the most frequently encountered molar relationship, followed by molar Class II, subdivision and molar Class III. Increased overjet was more common than negative overjet. Posterior cross‐bite was observed in 12% of children. TMD‐pain was recorded in 14.7% of subjects. High frequency of oral parafunctions was reported in 21.3% of subjects. A significant association was found between TMD‐pain and negative overbite. Cross‐bite and high frequency of oral parafunctions were associated with TMD‐pain.

Conclusion

The current results show that malocclusion, self‐reported oral parafunctions and TMD‐pain are frequent findings among Italian schoolchildren and that some occlusal factors and high frequency of oral parafunctions might be associated with TMD‐pain.
An updated review on pathophysiology and management of burning mouth syndrome with endocrinological, psychological and neuropathic perspectives
Authors: Imamura Yoshiki , Shinozaki Takahiro , Okada‐Ogawa Akiko , Noma Noboru , Shinoda Masahiro , Iwata Koichi , Wada Akihiko , Abe Osamu , Wang Kelun , Svensson Peter
Published: March 2019

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a chronic oro‐facial pain disorder of unknown cause. It is more common in peri‐ and post‐menopausal women, and sex hormone dysregulation is believed to be an important causative factor. Psychosocial events often trigger or exacerbate symptoms, and persons with BMS appear to be predisposed towards anxiety and depression. Atrophy of small nerve fibres in the tongue epithelium has been reported, and potential neuropathic mechanisms for BMS are now widely investigated. Historically, BMS was thought to comprise endocrinological, psychosocial and neuropathic components. Neuroprotective steroids and glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor family ligands may have pivotal roles in the peripheral mechanisms associated with atrophy of small nerve fibres. Denervation of chorda tympani nerve fibres that innervate fungiform buds leads to alternative trigeminal innervation, which results in dysgeusia and burning pain when eating hot foods. With regard to the central mechanism of BMS, depletion of neuroprotective steroids alters the brain network–related mood and pain modulation. Peripheral mechanistic studies support the use of topical clonazepam and capsaicin for the management of BMS, and some evidence supports the use of cognitive behavioural therapy. Hormone replacement therapy may address the causes of BMS, although adverse effects prevent its use as a first‐line treatment. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) may have important benefits, and well‐designed controlled studies are expected. Other treatment options to be investigated include brain stimulation and TSPO (translocator protein 18 kDa) ligands.
Quick and accurate detection of Sclerotiniasclerotiorum and Phomopsis spp. in soybean seeds using qPCR and seed‐soaking method
Authors: Ramiro Juliana , Ciampi‐Guillardi Maisa , Caldas Danielle Gregório Gomes , de Moraes Maria Heloísa Duarte , Barbieri Marina Coan Goldoni , Pereira Wagner Vicente , Massola Nelson Sidnei
Published: March 2019

Seed‐borne pathogenic fungi can cause serious damage to soybean crops by reducing the germination, vigour and emergence of the seeds. Special attention should be paid to pathogen detection in seeds to prevent its introduction in disease‐free areas. Considering the importance of rapid and successful diagnosis of seed‐borne pathogenic fungi in soybeans, this study evaluated a method to detect Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Phomopsis spp. in seeds using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Naturally infested samples were subjected to detection using qPCR and blotter test, and the findings were compared. Using soybean seeds soaked in water, both pathogens were detected at an infestation level up a 0.0625% (one infected seed out of 1,599 healthy seeds) by qPCR. This technique allowed the detection of 300 fg of S. sclerotiorum and 30 fg of Phomopsis spp. DNA in the seed samples. Phomopsis spp. was detected in 40.7% of the evaluated seed batches (81 batches) and S. sclerotiorum was detected in 32.1% of the evaluated batches, although most of the seeds had low infestation levels. It was up to 28.5 times more efficient to use qPCR rather than blotter test to detect pathogens with a low incidence of occurrence in soybean seeds. If routinely used to test healthy seeds, qPCR would contribute to reducing soybean losses due to diseases as well as decreasing the costs required to control those diseases.
A phenomenological inquiry into the experience of sleep: Perspectives of US military veterans with insomnia and serious mental illness
Authors: Klingaman Elizabeth A. , Lucksted Alicia , Crosby Eric S. , Blank Yelena , Schwartz Elana
Published: March 2019

The majority of people with serious mental illness experience insomnia, and insomnia is one of the most frequent reasons for mental health referrals in the Veterans Health Administration. Insomnia also represents a critical obstacle to mental health recovery. Little is known about how military veterans with mental health problems conceptualize their sleep and sleep problems; such information may uncover new avenues for research and treatment. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore how veterans with serious mental illness and insomnia experience and understand their sleep, towards the aim of identifying these new avenues. Participants included 20 veterans with insomnia and serious mental illness (i.e. schizophrenia spectrum, bipolar or major depressive disorders, with serious functional impairments). Data were collected via an inductive phenomenological approach using semi‐structured interviews. We identified five themes: Sleep to Recharge; Sleep as a Fight; Sleep as Safety or Escape; Sleep as Dangerous; and Military Influence. Participants' relationship with sleep was complex; many associated it with intrusive and troubling hallucinations, paranoia and military experiences, yet at the same time desired sleep for its potential to liberate them from distress. Military mindsets both helped and hindered sleep. These results extend existing models of insomnia development and maintenance, and illuminate phenomena previously unidentified in this underserved veteran population. Clinical and theoretical implications are discussed, as well as new research directions for enhancing therapeutic efficacy.
SpbR overproduction reveals the importance of proteolytic degradation for cell pole development and chromosome segregation in Caulobacter crescentus
Authors: Wang Haibi , Bowman Grant R.
Published: March 2019

In most rod‐shaped bacteria, DNA replication is quickly followed by chromosome segregation, when one of the newly duplicated centromeres moves across the cell to the opposite (or ‘new’) pole. Two proteins in Caulobacter crescentus, PopZ and TipN, provide directional cues at the new pole that guide the translocating chromosome to its destination. We show that centromere translocation can be inhibited by an evolutionarily conserved pole‐localized protein that we have named SpbR. When overproduced, SpbR exhibits aberrant accumulation at the old pole, where it physically interacts with PopZ. This prevents the relocation of PopZ to the new pole, thereby eliminating a positional cue for centromere translocation. Consistent with this, the centromere translocation phenotype of SpbR overproducing cells is strongly enhanced in a ∆tipN mutant background. We find that pole‐localized SpbR is normally cleared by ClpXP‐mediated proteolysis before the time of chromosome segregation, indicating that SpbR turnover is part of the cell cycle‐dependent program of polar development. This work demonstrates the importance of proteolysis as a housekeeping activity that removes outgoing factors from the developing cell pole, and provides an example of a substrate that can inhibit polar functions if it is insufficiently cleared.
Systemic antifungal drug use in Belgium—One of the biggest antifungal consumers in Europe
Authors: Goemaere Berdieke , Lagrou Katrien , Spriet Isabel , Hendrickx Marijke , Vandael Eline , Becker Pierre , Catry Boudewijn
Published: March 2019

Background

Reports on the consumption of systemic antifungal drugs on a national level are scarce although of high interest to compare trends and the associated epidemiology in other countries and to assess the need for antifungal stewardship programmes.

Objectives

To estimate patterns of Belgian inpatient and outpatient antifungal use and provide reference data for other countries.

Methods

Consumption records of antifungals were collected in Belgian hospitals between 2003 and 2016. Primary healthcare data were available for the azoles for the period 2010‐2016.

Results

The majority of the antifungal consumption resulted from prescriptions of fluconazole and itraconazole in the ambulatory care while hospitals were responsible for only 6.4% of the total national consumption and echinocandin use was limited. The annual average antifungal consumption in hospitals decreased significantly by nearly 25% between 2003 and 2016, due to a decrease solely in non‐university hospitals. With the exception of specialised burn centres, antifungals are mostly consumed at ICUs and internal medicine wards. A significant decline was also observed in the consumption of azoles in primary health care, attributed to itraconazole. The major part of azoles was prescribed by generalists followed by dermatologists.

Conclusions

In spite of the downward trend in annual use of systemic antifungal drugs, Belgium remains one of the biggest consumers in Europe.
Protective effects and mechanisms of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid on intestinal injury and macrophage polarization in peritoneal dialysis rats
Authors: Tang Hanfen , Zhu Xuping , Gong Cai , Liu Haiyang , Liu Fuyou
Published: March 2019

Aim

This study was conducted to investigate the chronic injury of peritoneal glucose injection on the peritoneum and intestine and the protective effects of omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (ω‐3PUFA) during peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Methods

Peritoneal dialysis animal models were established by intraperitoneal injection of 4.25% glucose for 28 days. Protein expression in ileum and peritoneum was measured by immunofloresence and immunohistochemistry. Protein expression in macrophages was measured by Western blot. Fibrosis was analyzed by Masson staining.

Results

Peritoneal dialysis significantly increased the structural injury and decreased junction‐related protein ZO‐1 and occludin expression in ileum, the expression of proteins relating to the activation of M2 (Erg2, IRF4), but not M1 (CD38, IRF5) macrophages. PD significantly increased the expression of TGF‐β1, VEGF and ALK5 protein in peritoneal tissues. PD significantly increased fibrosis (Masson staining) and the expression of fibroblast marker α‐SMA in peritoneal tissues. Injection of macrophage clean reagent and ω‐3PUFA significantly inhibited M2 activation, and decreased Masson staining, α‐SMA, TGF‐β1, VEGF and ALK5 protein expression in peritoneal tissues in PD treated rats. ω‐3PUFA injection significantly decreased PD‐induced injury in ileum and normalized the expression of ZO‐1 and occludin in the ileum of PD rats.

Conclusion

Omega‐3 fatty acids can provide a protective role on PD‐induced peritoneal fibrosis and injury of the intestine.
Integrating preparation for care trajectory management into nurse education: Competencies and pedagogical strategies
Authors: Allen Davina , Purkis Mary Ellen , Rafferty Anne Marie , Obstfelder Aud
Published: March 2019

Nurses make an important contribution to the organisation and coordination of patient care but receive little formal educational preparation for this work. This paper builds on Allen's care trajectory management framework to specify evidence‐based and theoretically informed competencies for this component of the nursing role and proposes how these might be incorporated into nursing curricula. This is necessary so that at the point of registration nurses have the expertise to realise their potential as both providersandorganisers of patient care and are better able to articulate and develop this aspect of nursing practice.
Impact of Symptom Reporting Agreement on Interdisciplinary Pain Program Participation
Authors: Gagnon Christine M. , Brewington David V. , Scholten Paul M. , Atchison James , Chang Chih‐Hung
Published: March 2019

Objective

To investigate whether physician–patient agreement of potential patient problem areas impacts subsequent patient enrollment in an interdisciplinary pain management program.

Design

Retrospective chart review of 544 patients who underwent evaluation of their chronic pain. Physicians and their patients endorsed perceived patient problems during the evaluation. The potential problems included 7 clinical domains: pain, sleep, mood, physical functioning, ability to cope with pain, ability to manage pain flare‐ups, and pain medication effectiveness.

Results

Results indicated statistically significant levels of agreement among the physicians and their patients (free‐marginal kappa range, 0.19 to 0.94, P's < 0.001). The highest agreement occurred for pain and the lowest for pain medication effectiveness. Patients who enrolled in a recommended program did not differ from those who did not enroll based on either levels of agreement or average number of physician–patient agreements for the 7 clinical domains (P's > 0.05). Patients recommended for higher‐intensity programs were perceived by their evaluating physician to have a significantly greater number of problematic clinical domains than those recommended for less intense pain programs.

Conclusion

The level of physician–patient agreement regarding the patients’ current difficulties did not appear to influence patients’ decisions to participate in interdisciplinary pain management. Extraneous, nonclinical factors may have had a greater impact on participation in interdisciplinary pain management than physician–patient agreement. Future research should focus on identifying these factors and their impact. Also, studying the impact of physician–patient agreement beyond enrollment status (eg, on successful program completion) may be helpful in potentially enhancing patient outcomes.
Novel insights into the assessment of risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in decompensated cirrhotic children
Authors: Bonnet Nicolas , Paul Jérôme , Helleputte Thibault , Veyckemans Francis , Pirotte Thierry , Prégardien Caroline , Eeckhoudt Stéphane , Hermans Cédric , Detaille Thierry , Clapuyt Philippe , Menten Renaud , Dumitriu Dana , Reding Raymond , Scheers Isabelle , Varma Sharat , Smets Françoise , Sokal Etienne , Stéphenne Xavier
Published: March 2019

Objectives

Cirrhotic children wait‐listed for liver transplant are prone to bleeding from gastrointestinal varices. Grade 2‐3 esophageal varices, red signs, and gastric varices are well‐known risk factors. However, the involvement of hemostatic factors remains controversial because of the rebalanced state of coagulation during cirrhosis.

Methods

Children suffering from decompensated cirrhosis were prospectively included while being on waitlist. Portal hypertension was assessed by ultrasound and endoscopy. Coagulopathy was evaluated through conventional tests, thromboelastometry, and platelet function testing. The included children were followed up until liver transplantation, and all bleeding episodes were recorded. Children with or without bleeding were compared according to clinical, radiological, endoscopic, and biological parameters. In addition, validation of a predictive model for risk of variceal bleeding comprising of grade 2‐3 esophageal varices, red spots, and fibrinogen level <150 mg/dL was applied on this cohort.

Results

Of 20 enrolled children, 6 had upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Significant differences were observed in fibrinogen level, adenosine diphosphate, and thrombin‐dependent platelet aggregation. The model used to compute the upper gastrointestinal bleeding risk had an estimated predictive performance of 81.0%. Platelet aggregation analysis addition improved the estimated predictive performance up to 89.0%.

Conclusions

We demonstrated an association between hemostatic factors and the upper gastrointestinal bleeding risk. A low fibrinogen level and platelet aggregation dysfunction may predict the risk of bleeding in children with decompensated cirrhosis. A predictive model is available to assess the upper gastrointestinal bleeding risk but needs further investigations.

Clinicaltrials.gov number: NCT03244332
Hydrogen peroxide as a mediator of 5‐aminolevulinic acid‐induced Na+ retention in roots for improving salt tolerance of strawberries
Authors: Wu Wen‐Wen , He Sha‐Sha , An Yu‐Yan , Cao Rong‐Xiang , Sun Yong‐Ping , Tang Quan , Wang Liang‐Ju
Published: March 2019

To explore the mechanisms of 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA)‐improved plant salt tolerance, strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa Duch. cv. ‘Benihoppe’) were treated with 10 mg l−1 ALA under 100 mmol l−1 NaCl stress. We found that the amount of Na+ increased in the roots but decreased in the leaves. Laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) observations showed that ALA‐induced roots had more Na+ accumulation than NaCl alone. Measurement of the xylem sap revealed that ALA repressed Na+ concentrations to a large extent. The electron microprobe X‐ray assay also confirmed ALA‐induced Na+ retention in roots. qRT‐PCR showed that ALA upregulated the gene expressions of SOS1 (encoding a plasma membrane Na+/H+ antiporter), NHX1 (encoding a vacuolar Na+/H+ antiporter) and HKT1 (encoding a protein of high‐affinity K+ uptake), which are associated with Na+ exclusion in the roots, Na+ sequestration in vacuoles and Na+ unloading from the xylem vessels to the parenchyma cells, respectively. Furthermore, we found that ALA treatment reduced the H2O2 content in the leaves but increased it in the roots. The exogenous H2O2 promoted plant growth, increased root Na+ retention and stimulated the gene expressions of NHX1, SOS1 and HKT1. Diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), an inhibitor of H2O2 generation, suppressed the effects of ALA or H2O2 on Na+ retention, gene expressions and salt tolerance. Therefore, we propose that ALA induces H2O2 accumulation in roots, which mediates Na+ transporter gene expression and more Na+ retention in roots, thereby improving plant salt tolerance.
Modest meta‐philosophical skepticism
Authors: Licon Jimmy Alfonso
Published: March 2019

Intractable disagreement among philosophers is ubiquitous. An implication of such disagreement is that many philosophers hold false philosophical beliefs (i.e. at most only one party to a dispute can be right). Suppose that we distribute philosophers along a spectrum arranged from philosophers with mostly true philosophical beliefs on one end (high‐reliability), to those with mostly false philosophical beliefs on the other (low‐reliability), and everyone else somewhere in‐between (call this is the reliability spectrum). It is hard to see how philosophers could accurately locate themselves on the reliability spectrum; they are prima facie as well positioned as their peers with respect to philosophical matters (call this the placement problem). In this paper, I argue that the reliability spectrum and placement problem lend support to modest meta‐philosophical skepticism: we have a pro tanto (but not an all‐things‐considered) reason to withhold ascent to philosophical claims.
Regional analysis of indirect factors affecting the recovery, degradation and deforestation in the tropical dry forests of Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: Guerra‐Martínez Francisco , García‐Romero Arturo , Cruz‐Mendoza Andrea , Osorio‐Olvera Laura
Published: March 2019

This study evaluates the dynamics and identifies the indirect biophysical and socio‐economic factors related to the recovery, degradation and deforestation of the tropical dry forest (TDF) cover in the municipality of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, Mexico. Annual rates and transition matrices were determined to identify indirect factors; the cartographic information of 25 variables with shift points were overlaid and Generalized Linear Models (GLM) were applied. The change process with the greatest impact in TDF during the study period (1993–2011) was degradation, with 10468 ha degraded (12 per cent of the initial tropical cover); recovery of coverage was the second most important change process, with 4808 ha (5.5 per cent); and deforestation was the change process with the lowest impact, with a loss of 2800 ha (3.23 per cent). The net balance was negative, with a decrease (through land degradation and deforestation) of 8460 ha (9.75 per cent). The recovery of coverage was mainly associated with biophysical factors such as land suitability and accessibility to natural vegetation. On the other hand, deforestation and degradation of coverage were associated with both biophysical and socioeconomic factors such as land suitability, accessibility to natural vegetation, migration, marginalization, population pressure, economy, education and health. The findings of this study determined the spatial distribution of forest recovery, deforestation and degradation processes at a regional level, allowing for future researchers to focus their efforts at local and landscape levels. Also, the work allows for an approximation of the factors associated with the change processes studied, hence supporting the allocation of resources for the establishment of management, conservation, development and restoration strategies of tropical dry forests at the regional level.
Phase angle is associated with the physical fitness of HIV‐infected children and adolescents
Authors: Martins Priscila Custódio , de Lima Luiz Rodrigo Augustemak , Silva Analiza Mónica , Petroski Edio Luiz , Moreno Yara Maria Franco , Silva Diego Augusto Santos
Published: March 2019

The objective of this study was to identify the association of phase angle with physical fitness in children and adolescents infected with HIV. Sixty‐four children and adolescents infected with HIV (8‐15 years old) were tested for vertical transmission. The electrical bioimpedance was used to obtain the phase angle. Body fat (BF) and lean soft tissue mass (LSTM) were measured by x‐ray absorptiometry, and the manual grip strength was evaluated by dynamometry. The peak oxygen consumption (VO2 peak) was measured by respiratory change in a submaximal incremental test. Moderate‐vigorous physical activity (MVP) and sedentary behavior were measured using accelerometers and were used as covariates. Multiple linear regression was used. The linear correlation analyses demonstrated that the phase angle was inversely proportional to relative BF (r = −0.26), but was not associated with absolute body fat (r = −0.02). The phase angle was directly associated with LSTM (r = 0.57), handgrip strength, and (r = 0.43) peak VO2 (r = 0.55). The phase angle was not associated with absolute BF (β = −0.017, P = 0.413) and relative (β = −0.014, P = 0.175). The phase angle presented a direct association with LSTM (β = 0.041, P = 0.019) and peak VO2 (β = 0.005; P = 0.019), regardless of age, sex, sexual maturation, MVPA, sedentary behavior, antiretroviral drugs, and viral load. No association was found between phase angle and handgrip strength (β = 0.153; P = 0.199). It was concluded that phase angle was associated with LSTM and the aerobic fitness in HIV‐infected children and adolescents.
Sustained submaximal contraction yields biphasic modulation of soleus Post‐activation depression in healthy humans
Authors: Oza Preeti D. , Dudley‐Javoroski Shauna , Shields Richard K.
Published: March 2019

The amplitude of the H‐reflex during the development and progression of fatigue reflects a complex interplay between central and peripheral factors. The purpose of this study is to characterize H‐reflex homosynaptic post‐activation depression (PAD) in an online fashion during a sustained submaximal fatigue task. The task required a high motor output in order to increase the likelihood of creating partial muscle ischemia with accumulation of fatigue metabolites, an important potential inhibitory influence upon the H‐reflex during the progression of fatigue. Eleven subjects without neurologic impairment maintained volitional, isometric plantar flexion at 60% of maximal voluntary contraction until exhaustion. A paired‐pulse stimulus (2 Hz) was delivered to the tibial nerve to elicit paired H‐reflexes before, during, and after the fatigue protocol. The normalized amplitude of the second H‐reflex (depression ratio) served as an estimate of PAD. Depression ratio increased during the first half of the fatigue protocol (P < 0.001), indicating a diminution of PAD, and then returned as exhaustion approached. The biphasic behavior of homosynaptic H‐reflex depression during fatigue to exhaustion suggests a role for metabolic mediators of post‐activation depression during fatigue.
Evaluation of positive patch test reactions using optical coherence tomography: A pilot study
Authors: Rajabi‐Estarabadi Ali , Tsang Darren C. , Nouri Keyvan , Tosti Antonella
Published: March 2019

Introduction

Patch testing is the gold standard for evaluating allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), yet current interpretation methods are limited by their subjectivity and possible variability between observers. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging enables noninvasive in vivo skin visualization and holds promise as an objective method of patch test interpretation.

Objective

To evaluate the micromorphological changes of patch test reactions and identify objective, quantitative OCT markers that correlate with clinically graded patch test reactions.

Results

A total of 25 patch test reactions (7 grade‐0, 4 grade‐1+, 14 grade‐2+) from 7 patients underwent OCT evaluation. Increased epidermal thickness and density was qualitatively observed in grade 1+ and grade 2+ allergic reactions while well‐demarcated, signal‐free cavities were observed in all grade 2+ reactions. Attenuation coefficients significantly increased across the three reaction grades (2.58 ± 0.092, 2.96 ± 0.121, 3.05 ± 0.065; P < 0.01). Cutaneous blood flow at 0.35 mm monotonically increased with reaction grade severity and blood measurements significantly differed across the three reaction grades (0.053 ± 0.011 mm/s, 0.078 ± 0.015 mm/s, and 0.121 ± 0.008 mm/s; P < 0.01).

Conclusions and Relevance

Attenuation coefficient and cutaneous blood flow at 0.35 mm correlate with clinically graded patch test reactions and hold promise as objective, quantitative markers. OCT may help dermatologists differentiate clinical scoring of allergic reactions in patch test and thereby improve their diagnostic accuracy and interpretation of patch test reactions.
Evaluation of a pre‐tied ligature loop for canine total lung lobectomy
Authors: Cronin Anna M. , Pustelnik Sasja B. , Owen Laura , Hall Jon L.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To determine the ability of a pre‐tied ligature loop (PLL) to create a seal against physiological airway pressures after total lung lobectomy and report outcomes in dogs requiring lung lobectomy.

Study design

Ex vivo experimental randomized study and clinical case study.

Sample population

Thirty cadaveric canine lung lobes and 5 client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Thirty canine lung lobes from dogs weighing 22.5–35 kg were randomized to lobectomy with stapler, PLL, or suture ligation. After lobectomy, each bronchial stump was submerged in water, and the mainstem airway pressure was increased to 80 mm Hg. Leakage was compared between techniques. The PLL was subsequently used in 5 dogs (17–25 kg) with neoplastic disease requiring total lung lobectomy.

Results

Two stapled and 4 sutured bronchial stumps leaked at supraphysiological pressures >15 mm Hg. One stapled bronchial stump failed at a physiological airway pressure (5 mm Hg). None of the PLL lobectomies leaked. The incidence of bronchial stump failures did not differ among techniques (P = .15). Lung lobectomy was performed successfully with the PLL in 5 clinical cases with no intraoperative or postoperative complications; median follow‐up time was 6 months.

Conclusion

Bronchial ligation with the PLL reliably resisted physiological airway pressures and performed comparably to current standard techniques in cadavers. The PLL provided an adequate air and vascular seal in 5 clinical cases undergoing total lung lobectomy.

Clinical relevance

Pre‐tied ligature loops provide an alternative method for total lung lobectomy in dogs.
Site‐specific management is crucial to managing Mikania micrantha
Authors: Clements D R , Day M D , Oeggerli V , Shen S C , Weston L A , Xu G F , Zhang F D , Zhu X
Published: March 2019

Increasingly, weeds have been taking on global distributions. With the proliferation of invasive weeds has come the challenge of managing these species over broad geographical regions, with diverse habitats and political jurisdictions. Here, we review the management of Mikania micrantha Kunth (Asteraceae; mile‐a‐minute) throughout its invaded range, extending through most of the Pacific islands and southern and south‐east Asia. Context matters when determining the best course of action for managing M. micrantha, as it has invaded a large variety of agricultural and natural systems. In Queensland, Australia and Florida, USA, M. micrantha has been targeted in relatively successful eradication campaigns, highlighting the importance of early detection and rapid response methods, while elsewhere in its invaded range, populations are either still increasing or showing limited signs of decline. An inter‐regional approach to research and management should incorporate successful management strategies employed throughout the invaded range including, but not limited to, chemical and cultural control practices, manual and mechanical control, classical biological control using the rust fungus Puccinia spegazzinii, plant–plant competition and integrated approaches utilising two or more control methods concurrently. Additional knowledge of M. micrantha genetics is required to determine if management approaches could be fine‐tuned for particular populations. Countries bordering the Mekong River formed a network in 2011 to co‐ordinate the management of invasive species such as M. micrantha. Expanding such a collaborative approach to other regions could further reduce populations of M. micrantha and limit its spread.
Design Ideator: A Conceptual Design Toolbox
Authors: Narsale S. , Chen Y. , Mohan M. , Shah Jami J.
Published: March 2019

Computer tools for embodiment and detailed engineering design (computer-aided design (CAD)) evolved rapidly in the past 35 years and are now pervasive throughout the industry. But todays commercial CAD is geometry-centric, not appropriate for early stages of design when detailed geometry and dimensions are not known. This paper describes a framework and a set of interconnected tools for conceptual design. In this system, a broad range of intuitive and experiential concept generation methods have been operationalized and implemented as databases, artifact repositories, knowledge bases, and interactive procedures to promote divergent thinking. The so-called “Design Ideator” includes methods for flexible and dynamic design problem formulation, re-formulation, and restructuring in the form of hierarchical and re-configurable morphological charts. This tool has been continuously enhanced through three phases of user studies and feedback. The main contributions of this work are as follows. First, this research has created a holistic framework with interlaced knowledge bases from a wide range of methods, as opposed to past research that have relied on single experiential only method. Second, we have formulated algorithms to support several intuitive methods, such as contextual shifting, analogical reasoning, provocative stimuli, and combinatorial play.
Effects of Uncertainties in the Launch Parameters on the Pressure-Equalizing Air Film Around a Vertically Launched Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Ma Guihui , Chen Fu , Yu Jianyang , Wang Kun , Jiang Shuai
Published: March 2019

Many uncertain factors in the water-emerging process of a vehicle influence the taking effect of the air film around its shoulder in the load reduction and attitude control. Assuming the launch parameters (launch depth, vehicle velocity, and chamber pressure) as sources of uncertainties, the uncertain evolution process of the air film in the water-emerging process of a vehicle is quantified by adopting the nonintrusive polynomial chaos (NIPC) method with the sample space constructed using linearly independent probabilistic collocation points. A sensitivity analysis was conducted for the key performance indicators of the air film to evaluate the contribution of each uncertain launch parameter.
A Five-Axis Dual NURBS Interpolator With Constant Speed at Feedrate-Sensitive Regions Under Axial Drive Constraints
Authors: Ma Jian-wei , Jia Zhen-yuan , Qin Feng-ze , Song De-ning , Jiang Wen-wen , Chen Si-yu
Published: March 2019

In the five-axis machining, the dual nonuniform rational B-spline (NURBS) interpolator performs better than the conventional linear interpolator in improving machining efficiency and quality. However, a successful dual NURBS interpolator faces with two aspects of issues. First, the feedrate should be reasonably scheduled according to axial drive constraints. Furthermore, the axial trajectories should be precisely and rapidly calculated according to the scheduled feedrate. To schedule the feedrate, existing methods use either overall constant speed or frequent time-varying speed. However, the former one is adverse to the motion efficiency, while the latter one is adverse to the motion stability. To deal with these issues, this study schedules feedrate-sensitive and nonsensitive regions and plans constant speed at the sensitive regions and smooth transition speed within the nonsensitive regions, thus balancing the motion stability and the efficiency. In addition, to calculate the axial trajectories, existing methods, using inverse kinematics, result in multiple solutions due to the existence of antitrigonometric functions, and this requires complicated selection of the solutions, otherwise the axial positions will be discontinuity. To deal with this issue, this study proposes a Jacobi matrix-based Adams prediction–correction numerical algorithm, which uses the incremental value of the tool pose to calculate the consecutive unique solution of the five-axis positions directly. By integrating above techniques, a systematic five-axis dual NURBS interpolator with the constant speed at feedrate-sensitive regions under axial drive constraints is presented. Experimental tests are conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Numerical investigation on turbulent oscillatory flow through a jet pump
Authors: Feng Ye , Gao Yuping , Tang Ke , Jin Tao
Published: March 2019

A jet pump with an asymmetrical channel can induce a time-averaged pressure drop in oscillatory flow, which can effectively suppress Gedeon streaming in looped thermoacoustic engines. In this work, the flow characteristics and time-averaged pressure drop caused by a jet pump in turbulent oscillatory flow are investigated through numerical simulation. Through the analysis of the dimensionless governing equations, the emphasis is put on the effects of Womersley number and maximum acoustic Reynolds number on the performance of the jet pump. Meanwhile, the steady flow resistance coefficients are also measured numerically. The results indicate that the oscillatory flow resistance coefficients are relatively insensitive to Womersley number when it is less than 46. Moreover, the oscillatory flow resistance coefficients agree well with the steady state flow results, which validate the quasi-static assumption in turbulent oscillatory flow. However, further increasing Womersley number will lead to a reduction in the time-averaged pressure drop. The simulation method and results, as well as the hydrodynamic mechanism beneath the results, are presented and discussed in detail.
Predatory fish invasion induces within and across ecosystem effects in Yellowstone National Park
Authors: Koel Todd M. , Tronstad Lusha M. , Arnold Jeffrey L. , Gunther Kerry A. , Smith Douglas W. , Syslo John M. , White Patrick J.
Published: March 2019

Invasion of Yellowstone Lake by lake trout displaced bears and other cutthroat trout consumers in Yellowstone National Park.
Sutureless repair of corneal injuries using naturally derived bioadhesive hydrogels
Authors: Shirzaei Sani Ehsan , Kheirkhah Ahmad , Rana Devyesh , Sun Zhongmou , Foulsham William , Sheikhi Amir , Khademhosseini Ali , Dana Reza , Annabi Nasim
Published: March 2019

We engineered a photocrosslinkable and transparent bioadhesive hydrogel for quick sealing, and repair of corneal defects.
How cardiolipin modulates the dynamics of respiratory complex I
Authors: Jussupow Alexander , Di Luca Andrea , Kaila Ville R. I.
Published: March 2019

Cardiolipin induces conformational changes in complex I that modulate the accessibility of the quinone substrate to the enzyme.
Propofol-induced deep sedation reduces emotional episodic memory reconsolidation in humans
Authors: Galarza Vallejo Ana , Kroes Marijn C. W. , Rey Enrique , Acedo Maria Victoria , Moratti Stephan , Fernández Guillén , Strange Bryan A.
Published: March 2019

Administering the anesthetic propofol after a brief reminder reduces retrieval of established emotional memory 24 hours later.
Lamin A buffers CK2 kinase activity to modulate aging in a progeria mouse model.
Authors: Ao Ying , Zhang Jie , Liu Zuojun , Qian Minxian , Li Yao , Wu Zhuping , Sun Pengfei , Wu Jie , Bei Weixin , Wen Junqu , Wu Xuli , Li Feng , Zhou Zhongjun , Zhu Wei-Guo , Liu Baohua , Wang Zimei
Published: March 2019

The causative progeria lamin A mutation inhibits CK2 enzyme activity to accelerate aging in laboratory mice.
Population Pharmacokinetic Study of Prophylactic Fluconazole in Preterm Infants for Prevention of Invasive Candidiasis
Authors: Kim Yu Kyong , Lee Juyoung , Oh Jaeseong , Rhee Su-jin , Shin Seung Han , Yoon Seo Hyun , Lee SeungHwan , Kim Han-Suk , Yu Kyung-Sang
Published: March 2019

Fluconazole is an antifungal agent with reported evidence for its prophylactic effect against systemic fungal infection in preterm infants. The aim of this study was to build a population pharmacokinetic model to evaluate the pharmacokinetic characteristics of intravenous and oral fluconazole in preterm infants with the current prophylactic fluconazole dosing regimen.
Role of
epaQ
, a Previously Uncharacterized Enterococcus faecalis Gene, in Biofilm Development and Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Korir Michelle L. , Dale Jennifer L. , Dunny Gary M.
Published: March 2019

E. faecalis
is a common cause of nosocomial infection, has a high level of antibiotic resistance, and forms robust biofilms. Biofilm formation is associated with increased antibiotic resistance. Therefore, a thorough understanding of biofilm-associated antibiotic resistance is important for combating resistance. Several genes from the
epa
operon have previously been implicated in biofilm-associated antibiotic resistance, pathogenesis, and competitive fitness in the GI tract, but most genes in this locus remain uncharacterized. Here, we examine
epaQ,
which has not been characterized functionally. We show that the Δ
epaQ
mutant exhibits reduced biofilm formation in the presence of daptomycin, altered biofilm architecture, and increased resistance to ceftriaxone, further expanding our understanding of the contribution of this operon to intrinsic enterococcal antibiotic resistance and biofilm growth.
Complete Genome Sequence of Variant Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Strain ZJ/ZX2018-C10, Isolated in Zhejiang, China, in 2018
Authors: Su Fei , Yu Bin , Li Junxing , Xu Lihua , Yuan Xiufang
Published: March 2019

We report here the complete genome sequence of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) strain ZJ/ZX2018-C10, isolated from infected piglets in Zhejiang Province, China. The genome sequence was highly similar to AH2012, a highly virulent Chinese PEDV strain.
High-Quality Draft Genome Sequences of Crenobacter cavernae Strain CAVE-375 and Oxalobacteriaceae sp. Strain CAVE-383, Two Bacteria Isolated from Dripping Water in a Karstic Cave in Portugal
Authors: Coelho Catarina , Veríssimo António , Tiago Igor
Published: March 2019

Crenobacter cavernae
CAVE-375 and
Oxalobacteriaceae
sp. strain CAVE-383, two Gram-negative bacteria, were isolated during the first microbiology survey performed in a karst cave in Portugal.
Draft Genome Sequence of Xylaria longipes DSM 107183, a Saprotrophic Ascomycete Colonizing Hardwood
Authors: Büttner Enrico , Gebauer Anna Maria , Hofrichter Martin , Liers Christiane , Kellner Harald
Published: March 2019

The saprotrophic soft-rot fungus
Xylaria longipes
was isolated from deadwood of
Acer pseudoplatanus
collected in the Bavarian Forest, Germany. The whole genome of this strain (DSM 107183) was sequenced with a total size of 43.2 Mb and a G+C content of 48.5%.
Complete Genome Sequence of Spiroplasma phoeniceum Strain P40
T
, a Plant Pathogen Isolated from Diseased Plants of Madagascar Periwinkle [
Catharanthus roseus
(L.) G. Don]
Authors: Davis Robert E. , Shao Jonathan , Zhao Yan , Wei Wei , Bottner-Parker Kristi , Silver Aliyah , Stump Zoey , Gasparich Gail E. , Donofrio Nicole
Published: March 2019

The phytopathogen
Spiroplasma phoeniceum
was isolated from diseased plants of Madagascar periwinkle [
Catharanthus roseus
(L.) G. Don]. Here, we report the nucleotide sequence of the 1,791,576-bp circular chromosome and three plasmids of strain P40
T
.
Neonatal outcomes in preterm multiples receiving delayed cord clamping
Authors: Jegatheesan Priya , Belogolovsky Esther , Nudelman Matthew , Song Dongli , Govindaswami Balaji
Published: March 2019

Objective

To compare neonatal outcomes in singletons versus multiples, first-born versus second-born multiples and monochorionic versus dichorionic/trichorionic multiples <33 weeks’ gestational age (GA) who received delayed cord clamping (DCC).

Design

Retrospective, observational study of 529 preterm infants receiving ≥30 s DCC. Generalised estimating equations and mixed effects models were used to compare outcomes in singletons versus multiples and monochorionic versus dichorionic/trichorionic multiples. Wilcoxon signed-rank and McNemar tests were used to compare first-born versus second-born multiples.

Setting

Level III neonatal intensive care unit, California, USA.

Patients

433 singletons and 96 multiples <33 weeks’ GA, born January 2008–December 2017, who received DCC.

Results

86% of multiples and 83% of singletons received DCC. Multiples had higher GA (31.0 weeks vs 30.6 weeks), more caesarean sections (91% vs 54%), fewer males (48% vs 62%) and higher 12–24 hour haematocrits (54.3 vs 50.5) than singletons. Haematocrit difference remained significant after adjusting for birth weight, delivery type and sex. Compared with first-born multiples, second-born multiples were smaller (1550 g vs 1438 g) and had lower survival without major morbidity (91% vs 77%). Survival without major morbidity was not significant after adjusting for birth weight. Compared with dichorionic/trichorionic multiples, monochorionic multiples had slightly lower admission temperatures (37.0°C vs 36.8°C), although this difference was not clinically significant. There were no other differences in delivery room, respiratory, haematological or neonatal outcomes between singletons and multiples or between multiples’ subgroups.

Conclusions

Neonatal outcomes in preterm infants receiving DCC were comparable between singletons and multiples, first and second order multiples and monochorionic and dichorionic/trichorionic multiples.
Quality gap in maternal and newborn healthcare: a cross-sectional study in Myanmar
Authors: Okawa Sumiyo , Win Hla Hla , Leslie Hannah H , Nanishi Keiko , Shibanuma Akira , Aye Phyu Phyu , Jimba Masamine
Published: March 2019

Introduction

Access to maternal and newborn healthcare has improved in Myanmar. However, regular contact with skilled care providers does not necessarily result in quality care. We assessed adequate contact made by women and newborns with skilled care providers, reception of high-quality care and quality-adjusted contacts during antenatal care (ANC), peripartum care (PPC) and postnatal care (PNC) in Myanmar.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in a predominantly urban township of Yangon and a predominantly rural township of Ayeyawady in March 2016. We collected data from 1500 women. We measured quality-adjusted contact, which refers to adequate contact with high-quality care, as follows: ≥4 ANC contacts and receiving 11–14 of 14 intervention items; facility-based delivery assisted by skilled care providers, receiving 7 of 7 PPC intervention items; and receiving the first PNC contact ≤24 hours postpartum and ≥2 additional contacts, and receiving 16–17 of 17 intervention items. Using multilevel logistic regression analysis with a random intercept at cluster level, we identified factors associated with adequate contact and high-quality ANC, PPC and PNC.

Results

The percentage of crude adequate contact was 60.9% for ANC, 61.3% for PPC and 11.5% for PNC. However, the percentage of quality-adjusted contact was 14.6% for ANC, 15.2% for PPC and 3.6% for PNC. Adequate contact was associated with receiving high-quality care at ANC, PPC and PNC. Being a teenager, low educational level, multiparity and low level in the household wealth index were negatively associated with adequate contact with healthcare providers for ANC and PPC. Receiving a maternal and child health handbook was positively associated with adequate contact for ANC and PPC, and with receiving high-quality ANC, PPC and PNC.

Conclusion

Women and newborns do not receive quality care during contact with skilled care providers in Myanmar. Continuity and quality of maternal and newborn care programmes must be improved.