bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of textural and technological parameters using response surface methodology for the development of beef products for older consumers
Authors: Botinestean Cristina , Hossain Mohammad , Mullen Anne M. , Auty Mark A. E. , Kerry Joseph P. , Hamill Ruth M.
Published: July 2019

Red meat has a tougher texture compared with many other food products, therefore consumption is often reduced among older adults. Acidic treatments had a positive effect on WBSF values (reduced the WBSF values from 23.35 N for control to 14.83 N), and texture parameters and a combination with apple fiber and rice starch may improve the health profile of a meat product with benefits for consumers, particularly for older population. A novel meat product with a softer texture (apple fiber 0.15%, rice starch 0.30% and citric acid 0.16 M) was optimized and successfully validated in this study. The results obtained for the objective measurements of tenderness were confirmed by consumers' tenderness results (p < .05) moreover texture‐optimized beef samples were found to be more acceptable by older consumers compared with control. Meat processors have an important role in increasing the availability of suitable meat products for older consumers, by developing products that will meet their nutritional and textural needs. In this study, a novel meat product with a softer texture was developed, successfully validated and the product was found to be acceptable by older consumers. Meat processors could consider using rice starch, apple fiber, and citric acid as feasible alternative to traditional ingredients used for beef injection, in order to obtain a softer product, that appeal to older consumers with difficulties in mastication.
Evaluation of hand‐held sodium, potassium, calcium, and electrical conductivity meters for diagnosing subclinical mastitis and intramammary infection in dairy cattle
Authors: Kandeel Sahar A. , Megahed Ameer A. , Constable Peter D.
Published: July 2019

Background

Subclinical mastitis (SCM) and intramammary infection (IMI) increase the sodium (Na) concentration and electrical conductivity (EC) and decrease the potassium (K) and calcium (Ca) concentrations in glandular secretions of lactating dairy cattle.

Hypothesis

Low‐cost portable Na, K, Ca, and EC meters are clinically useful cow‐side tests for diagnosing SCM and IMI.

Animals

One hundred fifteen dairy cows at dry off and 92 cows within 4‐7 days postcalving.

Methods

Quarter foremilk samples were obtained and the somatic cell count (SCC) was measured using a DeLaval cell counter with SCM defined as SCC ≥ 200 000 cells/mL. Microbiological culture of foremilk samples was used to diagnose IMI. Cisternal milk Na, K, and Ca concentrations and EC were measured using portable ion‐selective meters. Logistic regression was used to determine the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and the optimal cut point was determined using Youden's index. Diagnostic test performance was evaluated by comparing the AUC and calculating the sensitivity, specificity, and positive likelihood ratio (+LR) at the optimal cut point for SCM and IMI.

Results

Diagnostic test performance was much better when the meters were used to diagnose SCM as compared to IMI. Cisternal milk Na concentration provided the most accurate method for identifying quarters with SCM or IMI. However, AUC was <0.90 and +LR was <10 for all diagnostic test evaluations.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Cisternal milk Na, K, and Ca concentrations and EC were not sufficiently predictive of SCM or IMI to be recommended as clinically useful diagnostic tests.
Evaluation of the effect of a famotidine continuous rate infusion on intragastric pH in healthy dogs
Authors: Hedges Katherine , Odunayo Adesola , Price Josh M. , Hecht Silke , Tolbert M. Katherine
Published: July 2019

Background

Famotidine is sometimes administered as a continuous rate infusion (CRI) to treat gastrointestinal ulceration in critically ill dogs. However, clinical studies have not evaluated the efficacy of a famotidine CRI in dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of famotidine at raising intragastric pH when it is administered as a CRI in dogs. We hypothesized that CRI treatment with famotidine would meet clinical goals for raising intragastric pH ≥3 and 4.

Animals

Nine healthy Beagle dogs.

Methods

Randomized 2‐way crossover. All dogs received 1.0 mg/kg IV q12h famotidine or CRI famotidine at 1.0 mg/kg IV loading dose and 8.0 mg/kg/d for 3 consecutive days. Beginning on day 0 of treatment, intragastric pH monitoring was used to continuously record intragastric pH. Mean percentage times (MPTs) for which intragastric pH was ≥3 and ≥4 were compared between groups using analysis of variance.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference (P < .05) in MPT ≥3 and ≥4 between the CRI and IV q12h groups on all treatment days. On days 1, 2, and 3, the MPTs ± SD for which pH was ≥3 were 92.1 ± 8.5, 96.3 ± 6.2, and 90.0 ± 15.7 for the CRI treatment group and 49.3 ± 27.3, 42.2 ± 19.6, and 45.8 ± 10.1, respectively, for the twice‐daily group.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

These results suggest that a famotidine CRI, but not standard doses of famotidine, achieves the clinical goals established in people to promote healing of gastric tissue injury and offers an alternative to intravenous treatment with proton pump inhibitors in dogs.
Feeding behavior in Caribbean surgeonfishes varies across fish size, algal abundance, and habitat characteristics
Authors: Duran Alain , Adam Thomas C. , Palma Laura , Moreno Shalimar , Collado‐Vides Ligia , Burkepile Deron E.
Published: July 2019

Feeding behavior of coral reef fishes often determines their species‐specific ecological roles. We studied the two most common Caribbean surgeonfishes (Acanthurus coeruleus and Acanthurus tractus) to examine their species‐specific grazing rates and feeding preferences and how these differed with environmental context. We quantified the feeding activity of both surgeonfishes at four spur and groove reefs in the Florida Keys, USA, that varied in fish abundance, rugosity, algal community composition, and sediment loading. Overall, A. tractus fed twice as fast as A. coeruleus. Both species selected for turf algae but avoided feeding on turf algae that had become laden with sediment. Selectivity for upright macroalgae was more complex with A. tractus targeting Dictyota spp., while A. coeruleus avoided Dictyota spp. relative to the alga's abundance. Both species selected for epiphytes growing on other organisms such as macroalgae and sponges. However, several of these feeding patterns changed with ontogeny. For example, larger individuals of both species fed more frequently on long, sediment‐laden algal turf and less frequently on Dictyota spp. compared to smaller sized individuals. In addition, A. tractus also increased its preference for upright calcareous algae as they attained larger sizes. Overall, the disparity in feeding preferences of surgeonfishes likely indicates subtle differences in species‐specific ecological roles. Both A. coeruleus and A. tractus likely prevent development of turf algae and thus maintain algal communities in the early stages of succession. Additionally, A. tractus may also help reduce macroalgal abundance by targeting common macroalgal species.
Phenomenal contrast arguments: What they achieve
Authors: Jorba Marta , Vicente Agustín
Published: July 2019

Phenomenal contrast arguments (PCAs) are normally employed as arguments showing that a certain mental feature contributes to (the phenomenal character of) experience. In this paper we examine a neglected aspect of such arguments, that is, the kind of mental episodes involved in them, and argue that this happens to be a crucial feature of the arguments. We use linguistic tools to determine the lexical aspect of verbs and verb phrases—the tests for a/telicity and for duration. We then suggest that all PCAs can show is the presence of a generic achievement‐like phenomenology, especially in the cognitive domain, which contrasts with the role that PCAs are given in the literature.
Type of admission and nursing workload of critical patients: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Romano Juliana Lemos , Garcia Paulo Carlos , Silva Daniela Vieira , Moura Bruna Roberta Siqueira , de Souza Nogueira Lilia
Published: July 2019

Background

According to the perception of nurses in the intensive care unit (ICU), surgical patients need more nursing care, thus requiring higher nursing workloads for these patients than those admitted as clinical patients. However, some study results on the relationship between the type of admission and the nursing workload are considered contradictory.

Aims and objectives

To identify if the type of admission (clinical, emergency surgery or elective surgery) is a predictive factor of the nursing workload required by patients on the first day or throughout their stay in the ICU.

Design

This was a quantitative cross‐sectional study comprised of a retrospective analysis of clinical records of critical patients.

Methods

Data were collected from 1 May 2015 to 30 September 2015 in a hospital located in São Paulo, Brazil. Nursing workload was measured using the Nursing Activities Score. The type of admission and the demographic and clinical variables of the patients were investigated. Multiple linear regression was used to identify nursing workload predictive factors, with 5% significance level.

Results

In the analysed sample (n = 211; mean age of 60·3 ± 18·7 years), there was a prevalence of male gender (56·9%). A statistically significant difference (p = 0·025) was found between the type of admission and the nursing workload required for patients on the first ICU day. The Simplified Acute Physiologic Score (p = 0·009) was a predictor of nursing workload on the first day in the ICU, and the Logistic Organ Dysfunction System (p = 0·026) and mortality (p < 0·001) were predictors throughout the ICU stay.

Conclusions

The type of admission was not a predictive factor of the nursing workload required by critical patients.

Relevance to clinical practice

Identifying the predictive factors of nursing workload favours the appropriate staffing of the critical unit by nurses. However, nurses should not consider the type of admission in predicting the nursing workload required by patients in the ICU.
Rewards interact with repetition‐dependent learning to enhance long‐term retention of motor memories
Authors: Hamel Raphaël , Côté Kathleen , Matte Alexia , Lepage Jean‐François , Bernier Pierre‐Michel
Published: July 2019

The combination of behavioral experiences that enhance long‐term retention remains largely unknown. Informed by neurophysiological lines of work, this study tested the hypothesis that performance‐contingent monetary rewards potentiate repetition‐dependent forms of learning, as induced by extensive practice at asymptote, to enhance long‐term retention of motor memories. To this end, six groups of 14 participants (n = 84) acquired novel motor behaviors by adapting to a gradual visuomotor rotation while these factors were manipulated. Retention was assessed 24 h later. While all groups similarly acquired the novel motor behaviors, results from the retention session revealed an interaction indicating that rewards enhanced long‐term retention, but only when practice was extended to asymptote. Specifically, the interaction indicated that this effect selectively occurred when rewards were intermittently available (i.e., 50%), but not when they were absent (i.e., 0%) or continuously available (i.e., 100%) during acquisition. This suggests that the influence of rewards on extensive practice and long‐term retention is nonlinear, as continuous rewards did not further enhance retention as compared with intermittent rewards. One possibility is that rewards’ intermittent availability allows to maintain their subjective value during acquisition, which may be key to potentiate long‐term retention.
Innovation and the Creative Destruction of Trade: A Study of the Intensive and Extensive Margins of Trade for French Firms
Authors: Elliott Robert J. R. , Jabbour Liza , Vanino Enrico
Published: July 2019

Our study of French exporters examines the causal relationship between innovation and extensive and intensive margins of trade using a propensity score matching and difference‐in‐differences approach. Results show innovation has a positive impact on total exports driven primarily through the intensive margin. To understand the absence of an extensive margin effect, we show new and terminated product–country transactions increase at similar rates in the year of innovation for the treated and control groups but net trade creation for innovators outstrips that of non‐innovators in the following two years implying firms need to innovate in order to survive in export markets.
Elasticities and the Inverse Hyperbolic Sine Transformation
Authors: Bellemare Marc F. , Wichman Casey J.
Published: July 2019

Applied econometricians frequently apply the inverse hyperbolic sine (or arcsinh) transformation to a variable because it approximates the natural logarithm of that variable and allows retaining zero‐valued observations. We provide derivations of elasticities in common applications of the inverse hyperbolic sine transformation and show empirically that the difference in elasticities driven by ad hoc transformations can be substantial. We conclude by offering practical guidance for applied researchers.
How Do Usage and Payment Behavior Interact in Rent‐to‐Own Business Models? Evidence from Developing Economies
Authors: Guajardo Jose A.
Published: July 2019

The diffusion of technological innovations in developing economies has been facilitated by the use of rent‐to‐own business models, which give flexibility to customers by allowing them to make incremental payments over time. Understanding the implications of this flexibility is a fundamental problem for an increasing number of firms operating in these markets. In this study, we empirically analyze how consumer usage and payment behaviors interact in an application of rent‐to‐own to the distribution of solar lamps in developing countries. By exploiting the longitudinal variation in the data—and hence accounting for intrinsic differences between customers—the analysis led to three main insights. First, higher usage rates lowered the probability of late payments by customers. Our characterization of this engagement effect enhances existing knowledge of the drivers of payment behavior in these environments. Second, customers often “bundled” payments, making advance payments for future product access. We showed that bundling the initial payment led to lower usage rates ( bundling effect), suggesting that firms may not benefit from advance payments upfront, and that they should closely track usage patterns from these customers. Finally, we showed that first‐period usage information can improve the accuracy of predictive models of default and that observing usage rates in subsequent periods does not lead to further improvements. Overall, the analysis highlights the importance for firms of jointly tracking and analyzing payment and usage behavior by customers, particularly in initial stages of the adoption process.
The influence of sampling design on spatial data quality in a geographic citizen science project
Authors: Brown Greg , Rhodes Jonathan , Lunney Daniel , Goldingay Ross , Fielding Kelly , Garofano Nicole , Hetherington Scott , Hopkins Marama , Green Jo , McNamara Skye , Brace Angie , Vass Lorraine , Swankie Linda , McAlpine Clive
Published: July 2019

Geographic citizen science has much potential to assist in wildlife research and conservation, but the quality of observation data is a key concern. We examined the effects of sampling design on the quality of spatial data collected for a koala citizen science project in Australia. Data were collected from three samples—volunteers (n = 454), an Internet panel (n = 103), and landowners (n = 35)—to assess spatial data quality, a dimension of citizen science projects rarely considered. The locational accuracy of koala observations among the samples was similar when benchmarked against authoritative data (i.e., an expert‐derived koala distribution model), but there were differences in the quantity of data generated. Fewer koala location data were generated per participant by the Internet panel sample than the volunteer or landowner samples. Spatial preferences for land uses affecting koala conservation were also mapped, with landowners more likely to map locations for residential and tourism development and volunteers less likely. These spatial preferences have the potential to influence the social acceptability of future koala conservation proposals. With careful sampling design, both citizen observations and land use preferences can be included within the same project to augment scientific assessments and identify conservation opportunities and constraints.
Rejuvenation of RBCs: validation of a manufacturing method suitable for clinical use
Authors: Smethurst Peter A. , Jolley Jennifer , Braund Rebecca , Proffitt Sue , Lynes Thomas , Hazell Matthew , Mellor Phil , Ridgwell Kay , Procter Simon , Griffiths Alexandra , Marinaki Anthony M. , New Helen V. , Murphy Gavin J. , Edmondson Dave , Cardigan Rebecca ,   on behalf of the REDJUVENATE Trial Investigators
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND

Rejuvenation of stored red blood cells (RBCs) increases levels of adenosine 5′‐triphosphate (ATP) and 2,3‐diphosphoglycerate (2,3‐DPG) to those of fresh cells. This study aimed to optimize and validate the US‐approved process to a UK setting for manufacture and issue of rejuvenated RBCs for a multicenter randomized controlled clinical trial in cardiac surgery.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Rejuvenation of leukoreduced RBC units involved adding a solution containing pyruvate, inosine, phosphate, and adenine (Rejuvesol, Zimmer Biomet), warming at 37°C for 60 minutes, then “manual” washing with saline adenine glucose mannitol solution. A laboratory study was conducted on six pools of ABO/D‐matched units made the day after donation. On Days 7, 21, and 28 of 4 ± 2°C storage, one unit per pool was rejuvenated and measured over 96 hours for volume, hematocrit, hemolysis, ATP, 2,3‐DPG, supernatant potassium, lactate, and purines added (inosine) or produced (hypoxanthine) by rejuvenation. Subsequently, an operational validation (two phases of 32 units each) was undertaken, with results from the first informing a trial component specification applied to the second. Rejuvenation effects were also tested on crossmatch reactivity and RBC antigen profiles.

RESULTS

Rejuvenation raised 2,3‐DPG to, and ATP above, levels of fresh cells. The final component had potassium and hemolysis values below those of standard storage Days 7 and 21, respectively, containing 1.2% exogenous inosine and 500 to 1900 μmoles/unit of hypoxanthine. The second operational validation met compliance to the trial component specification. Rejuvenation did not adversely affect crossmatch reactivity or RBC antigen profiles.

CONCLUSION

The validated rejuvenation process operates within defined quality limits, preserving RBC immunophenotypes, enabling manufacture for clinical trials.
Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum infection in Neotropical primates in the western Amazon, Brazil
Authors: Silva Tatiene R. M. , Barros Flávia N. L. , Bahia Michele , Sampaio Junior Francisco D. , Santos Sidney S. F. , Inoue Larissa S. , Gonçalves Thamirys S. , Chiesorin Neto Laerzio , Faria Diogo C. L. O. , Tochetto Camila , Viana Gisele M. R. , Monteiro Frederico O. B. , Góes-Cavalcante Gustavo , Scofield Alessandra
Published: July 2019

The Brazilian Amazon is endemic for malaria and natural infections by Plasmodium spp. have been detected in Neotropical primates. Despite the diversity of primate species in the region, studies on infections by these agents are limited. The aim of the present study was to investigate the frequency of infection by Plasmodium vivax and P. falciparum in free‐born primates that were kept in captivity, in the western Amazon, Brazil. Blood samples were collected from 98 Neotropical primates. Detection of P. vivax and P. falciparum DNA was performed using a semi‐nested PCR, and the amplified products were sequenced. Plasmodium spp. DNA was detected in 6.12% (6/98) of the primates. P. vivax, and P. falciparum DNA was detected in 2.04% (2/98) and 4.08% (4/98) of these mammals, respectively. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis confirmed the results obtained from the semi‐nested PCR. The presence of infected non‐human primates (NHP) can be auxiliary in the maintenance of P. falciparum and P. vivax and may have implications for the malaria surveillance and control in the Brazilian Amazon. It is necessary to structure an efficient surveillance system for the aetiological agents of malaria that infect NHP and humans to reduce the risk of Plasmodium spp. introduction into new areas, to protect all susceptible species.
Evidence for cell‐contact factor involvement in neurite outgrowth of dorsal root ganglion neurons stimulated by Schwann cells
Authors: Endo Takeshi , Kadoya Ken , Kawamura Daisuke , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: July 2019

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Although the factors secreted from Schwann cells that promote axonal growth in the peripheral nervous system have been well studied, the effect of cell‐contact factors on Schwann cells remains to be determined.

What is the main finding and its importance?

This study demonstrates that Schwann cells stimulate neurite outgrowth by direct contact with neurites and by secreting factors. Notably, the effect of cell‐contact factors in neurite outgrowth is comparable to that of secreted factors, indicating that the identification of cell surface molecules on Schwann cells that promote neurite outgrowth could lead to development of a new therapy for peripheral nervous system injury.

Schwann cells (SCs) play a variety of roles in the regeneration process after injury to the peripheral nervous system. The factors secreted from SCs that promote axonal growth have been well studied. However, the involvement of cell‐contact factors on SCs remains to be determined. Here, we demonstrate a significant contribution of a cell‐contact mechanism in the effect of SCs on promotion of neuronal outgrowth. Neurite outgrowth of adult sensory neurons from dorsal root ganglia was quantified during co‐culture with adult SCs. Direct contact of SCs with neurons was eliminated by culturing SCs on an insert placed in the same well; this resulted in a 51% reduction in the length of neurite outgrowth. In addition, when dorsal root ganglion neurons were cultured on sparsely seeded SCs, neurons that made contact with SCs on their neurites had 118% longer neurites than neurons that lacked contacts with SCs. Collectively, these findings provide evidence that SCs stimulate neurite outgrowth via direct contact with neurites in addition to secreting factors. The identification of cell surface molecules on SCs that promote neurite outgrowth could lead to development of a new therapy for peripheral nervous system injury.
K+ and the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system: new insights into their role in blood pressure control and hypertension treatment
Authors: Poulsen Søren B. , Fenton Robert A.
Published: July 2019

Approximately 25% of the adult population is diagnosed with hypertension and it is therefore one of the biggest challenges for the health sector. The renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) adjusts effective circulating volume and ultimately blood pressure (BP). Accordingly, antihypertensive drugs targeting the RAAS have been a major focus in modern medical treatment. Low and high dietary K+ intakes are associated with increased or decreased BP and risk of cardiac failure, respectively, suggesting that dietary K+ augmentation has the potential to supplement or replace conventional anti‐hypertensive drugs. Animal studies have indicated that the beneficial effects of high dietary K+ may be linked to a dominant regulatory role of plasma K+ on key renal transport proteins controlled by the RAAS. However, only a limited number of studies have investigated whether the reported mechanisms in animal models apply to humans. Furthermore, hypertension is often treated with so‐called ‘K+ sparing’ drugs, thus complicating co‐treatment with K+ supplementation. In this review, we revisit old concepts of RAAS effects in the kidney, relate them to effects of dietary K+ manipulation, and finally consider the clinical potential of treating hypertension with K+ supplementation alone or in combination with RAAS inhibitors. Collectively, a wealth of data suggest that increased dietary K+ intake may have beneficial effects on BP in the general population, but underlying medical conditions or current treatment regimens need to be carefully considered before implementing K+ supplementation in patients.

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Ca‐dependence of synaptic vesicle exocytosis and endocytosis at the hippocampal mossy fibre terminal
Authors: Miyano Rinako , Miki Takafumi , Sakaba Takeshi
Published: July 2019

Key points

We used presynaptic capacitance measurements at the hippocampal mossy fibre terminal at room temperature to measure Ca‐dependence of exo‐ and endocytotic kinetics.

The readily releasable pool (RRP) of synaptic vesicles was released with a time constant of 30–40 ms and was sensitive to Ca buffers, BAPTA and EGTA.

Our data suggest that recruitment of the vesicles to the RRP was Ca‐insensitive and had a time constant of 1 s.

In addition to the RRP, the reserve pool of vesicles, which had a similar size to RRP, was depleted during repetitive stimulation.

Our data suggest that synaptic vesicle endocytosis was also Ca‐insensitive.

Hippocampal mossy fibre terminals comprise one of the cortical terminals, which are sufficiently large to be accessible by patch clamp recordings. To measure Ca‐dependence of exo‐ and endocytotic kinetics quantitatively, we applied presynaptic capacitance measurements to the mossy fibre terminal at room temperature. The time course of synaptic vesicle fusion was slow, with a time constant of tens of milliseconds, and was sensitive to Ca buffers EGTA and BAPTA, suggesting a loose coupling between Ca channels and synaptic vesicles. The size of the readily‐releasable pool (RRP) of synaptic vesicles was relatively insensitive to Ca buffers. Once the RRP was depleted, it was recovered by a single exponential with a time constant of ∼1 s independent of the presence of Ca buffers, suggesting Ca independent vesicle replenishment. In addition to the RRP, the reserve pool of vesicles was released slowly during repetitive stimulation. Endocytosis was also insensitive to Ca buffers and had a slow time course, excluding the involvement of rapid vesicle cycling in vesicle replenishment. Although mossy fibre terminals are known to have various forms of Ca‐dependent plasticity, some features of vesicle dynamics are robust and Ca‐insensitive.
Method for Calibration of Left Ventricle Material Properties Using Three-Dimensional Echocardiography Endocardial Strains
Authors: Dabiri Yaghoub , Sack Kevin L. , Rebelo Nuno , Wang Peter , Wang Yunjie , Choy Jenny S. , Kassab Ghassan S. , Guccione Julius M.
Published: July 2019

We sought to calibrate mechanical properties of left ventricle (LV) based on three-dimensional (3D) speckle tracking echocardiographic imaging data recorded from 16 segments defined by American Heart Association (AHA). The in vivo data were used to create finite element (FE) LV and biventricular (BV) models. The orientation of the fibers in the LV model was rule based, but diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data were used for the fiber directions in the BV model. A nonlinear fiber-reinforced constitutive equation was used to describe the passive behavior of the myocardium, whereas the active tension was described by a model based on tissue contraction (Tmax). isight was used for optimization, which used abaqus as the forward solver (Simulia, Providence, RI). The calibration of passive properties based on the end diastolic pressure volume relation (EDPVR) curve resulted in relatively good agreement (mean error = −0.04 ml). The difference between the experimental and computational strains decreased after segmental strain metrics, rather than global metrics, were used for calibration: for the LV model, the mean difference reduced from 0.129 to 0.046 (circumferential) and from 0.076 to 0.059 (longitudinal); for the BV model, the mean difference nearly did not change in the circumferential direction (0.061) but reduced in the longitudinal direction from 0.076 to 0.055. The calibration of mechanical properties for myocardium can be improved using segmental strain metrics. The importance of realistic fiber orientation and geometry for modeling of the LV was shown.
Nonconvex Time-Optimal Trajectory Planning for Robot Manipulators
Authors: Nagy Ákos , Vajk István
Published: July 2019

Time-optimal motion-planning has been a topic of active research in the literature for a while. This paper presents a new approach for velocity profile generation, which is a subproblem in motion-planning. In the case of simplified constraints, profile generation can be translated to a convex optimization problem. However, some practical constraints (e.g., velocity-dependent torque, viscous friction) destroy the convexity. The proposed method can obtain the global optimum of the nonconvex optimization problem. The experimental results with a three degrees-of-freedom (DOF) robot manipulator are also presented in this paper.
Hydrogen incorporation and release from nonevaporable getter coatings based on oxygen-free Pd/Ti thin films
Authors: Matsumoto Masuaki , Okada Tomohiro , Miyazawa Tetsuya , Mase Kazuhiko , Yamanaka Misao , Hashimoto Ayako , Wilde Markus , Fukutani Katsuyuki
Published: July 2019

Oxygen-free Pd/Ti thin films have been developed as novel nonevaporable getter coatings for ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) chamber walls, which can maintain high pumping speed even after many cycles of air-vent and only require activation at a relatively low temperature of 133°C. Here, the authors clarify the hydrogen (H) incorporation and release properties of such oxygen-free Pd/Ti thin films using scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and H depth profiling by 1H(15N,αγ)12C nuclear reaction analysis (NRA). EDS mapping and STEM show that the layers of Pd (6 nm) and Ti (14 nm) prepared by sequential UHV deposition on a stainless steel 304L substrate are clearly separated and that the Ti is completely covered by Pd, which prevents oxidation of Ti. NRA reveals that H accumulates preferentially in the Ti layer, where the H-content increases almost linearly with the H2 dosage. Quantitative analysis indicates that TiH1.92 is produced in the Ti layer after an exposure of 4×104 Langmuir, where the H uptake is still not saturated. Upon heating in UHV, H starts to desorb above 170°C and the release rate increases above 200°C. Repeated cycles of H incorporation at room temperature (20°C) and release at about 240°C are possible. Although the H incorporation rate changes during the initial absorption/desorption, it stabilizes after a few (∼3) incorporation/release cycles.
A Potent Neutralizing Site III-Specific Human Antibody Neutralizes Human Metapneumovirus
In Vivo
Authors: Bar-Peled Yael , Diaz Darren , Pena-Briseno Alma , Murray Jackelyn , Huang Jiachen , Tripp Ralph A. , Mousa Jarrod J.
Published: July 2019

Recent progress in understanding the human immune response to respiratory syncytial virus has paved the way for new vaccine antigens and therapeutics to prevent and treat disease. Progress toward understanding the immune response to human metapneumovirus (hMPV) has lagged behind, although hMPV is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract infection in children. In this report, we advanced the field by isolating a panel of human mAbs to the hMPV F protein. One potent neutralizing mAb, MPV364, targets antigenic site III on the hMPV F protein and incorporates two protomers into its epitope yet is unique from previously discovered site III mAbs, as it does not cross-react with the RSV F protein. We further examined MPV364
in vivo
and found that it limits viral replication in BALB/c mice. Altogether, these data provide new mAb candidates for therapeutic development and provide insights into hMPV vaccine development.
How to use: creatine kinase
Authors: Chakrabarty Tanmoy , Tirupathi Sandya , Thompson Andrew
Published: July 2019

Creatine kinase (CK) remains an essential tool for assessment of muscular weakness and pain in children despite the advent of advanced diagnostic tests in this field. It is also useful in diagnosing and monitoring various other conditions. This article will explore the physiology of CK and clinical situations where the estimation of CK can help the clinicians’ decision-making process with the diagnosis and management of these conditions. Some clinical scenarios are used to highlight how the tests can be used in different clinical situations. The role of CK as a biomarker of myocardial injury has been purposefully omitted in this article.
Catch me if you can: disappearing and reappearing posterior fossa dural arteriovenous malformation
Authors: Agnoletto Guilherme J , Hoover Jason M , Monteiro Andre , Hanel Ricardo A
Published: July 2019

We report an unusual case of a dural arteriovenous fistula (dAVF) presenting as acute neck pain and quadripareis in a 55-year-old previously healthy man. Imaging was suspicious for cervicomedullary venous thrombosis and angiography failed to show evidence of arteriovenous malformation or dAVF. The patient was started on warfarin for a presumed cervicomedullary venous thrombosis and there was a significant clinical improvement. However, 3 weeks later, the symptoms recurred and repeat angiography revealed a dAVF fed by a posterior branch of the left middle meningeal artery draining into the posterior fossa vein. We postulated that warfarin caused recanalisation of the previously thrombosed venous pouch allowing for angiographic discovery and treatment of the dAVF. The dAVF was embolised with onyx resulting in the complete obliteration of the dAVF and symptomatic improvement. Although rare, some dAVF can be concealed or disappear on angiography due to thrombosis of the draining vein and warfarin can lead to recanalisation.
Acute epididymo-orchitis frombrucellosis melitensisin Australia
Authors: Ip Christopher Chi Kit , Tumali Khrisna , Hoh Ivan M , Arunasalam Arun
Published: July 2019

Brucellosis epididymo-orchitis (BEO) is extremely rare in non-endemic areas such as Australia. While epididymo-orchitis is relatively common in adolescent men, when presented with a significant travel history, consideration should be given to rare causes such as this. Here, we present a case of BEO in a young 18-year-old man who recently migrated from Greece, with symptoms of acute scrotal pain, swelling and persistent fever.Brucella melitensiswas isolated in the blood culture and confirmed with PCR. We suspect transmission was related to ingestion of unpasteurised goat dairy products. He made a full recovery after 7 days of intravenous gentamicin and 6 weeks of oral doxycycline. BEO should be considered in those who present with acute scrotal pain and fever after a recent history of travel to or from a brucellosis- endemic area.
Exophytic primary gastric squamous cell carcinoma andH. pylorigastritis
Authors: Zhou Kehua , Faraz Aniqa , Magotra Minoti , Tahir Muhammad
Published: July 2019

Primary gastric squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is rare, and the simultaneousHelicobacter pyloriinfection has not been reported in the literature. Here, we presented a patient with concurrentH. pylorigastritis and primary gastric SCC. A 54-year-old Hispanic man presented with diarrhoea, chills, night sweats and weight loss of 16 lbs for the previous 6 weeks. Abdominal CT revealed large exophytic mass from the stomach infiltrating multiple organs. Biopsy was performed and histology showed squamoid features. Immunohistochemistry stain was positive for p40, CK5/6, CK7 and Helicobacter type organisms. Patient was diagnosed with primary gastric SCC and has been receiving chemotherapy. We also reviewed the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of primary gastric SCC.
Impact of community based screening for hypertension on blood pressure after two years: regression discontinuity analysis in a national cohort of older adults in China
Authors: Chen Simiao , Sudharsanan Nikkil , Huang Feng , Liu Yuanli , Geldsetzer Pascal , Bärnighausen Till
Published: July 2019

Objective

To estimate the causal impact of community based blood pressure screening on subsequent blood pressure levels among older adults in China.

Design

Regression discontinuity analysis using data from a national cohort study.

Setting

2011-12 and 2014 waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey, a national cohort of older adults in China.

Participants

3899 older adults who had previously undiagnosed hypertension.

Intervention

Community based hypertension screening among older adults in 2011-12.

Main outcome measure

Blood pressure two years after initial screening.

Results

The intervention reduced systolic blood pressure: −6.3 mm Hg in the model without covariates (95% confidence interval −11.2 to −1.3) and −8.3 mm Hg (−13.6 to −3.1) in the model that adjusts additionally for demographic, social, and behavioural covariates. The impact on diastolic blood pressure was smaller and non-significant in all models. The results were similar when alternative functional forms were used to estimate the impact and the bandwidths around the intervention threshold were changed. The results did not vary by demographic and social subgroups.

Conclusions

Community based hypertension screening and encouraging people with raised blood pressure to seek care and adopt blood pressure lowering behaviour changes could have important long term impact on systolic blood pressure at the population level. This approach could address the high burden of cardiovascular diseases in China and other countries with large unmet need for hypertension diagnosis and care.
Health diplomacy through health entrepreneurship: using hackathons to address Palestinian-Israeli health concerns
Authors: Ramadi Khalil B , Srinivasan Shriya , Atun Rifat
Published: July 2019

The universally shared values of improving health and well-being of populations make health a suitable diplomacy tool that transcends populations. The role of entrepreneurship in improving health and contributing to sustainable development is increasingly used in conjunction with traditional health diplomacy. In this paper, we present healthcare entrepreneurship as an effective health diplomacy tool that can spur economic growth, improve healthcare and generate sustainable development in communities. Improvements in health require involvement of diverse stakeholders including healthcare and non-health professionals to generate and implement sustainable problem-focused solutions. We illustrate the utility of early-stage innovation events, such as hackathons, in sparking entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary collaboration, ideation and innovation around problems specific to a local community. Specifically, we describe a hackathon organised in Nazareth, Israel as a means to bridge multicultural communities to address common health issues across the population. We suggest that health entrepreneurship is an important component of health diplomacy, and a critical ingredient for improved health, economic growth and sustainable development.
Does liberalisation of cannabis policy influence levels of use in adolescents and young adults? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Melchior Maria , Nakamura Aurélie , Bolze Camille , Hausfater Félix , El Khoury Fabienne , Mary-Krause Murielle , Azevedo Da Silva Marine
Published: July 2019

Objectives

To examine the effect of cannabis policy liberalisation (decriminalisation and legalisation) levels of use in adolescents and young adults.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Inclusion criteria

Included studies were conducted among individuals younger than 25 years and quantitatively assessing consequences of cannabis policy change. We excluded articles: (A) exclusively based on participants older than 25 years; (B) only reporting changes in perceptions of cannabis use; (C) not including at least two measures of cannabis use; (D) not including quantitative data; and (E) reviews, letters, opinions and policy papers. PubMed, PsycINFO, Embase and Web of Science were searched through 1 March 2018.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two independent readers reviewed the eligibility of titles and abstracts and read eligible articles, and four authors assessed the risk of bias (Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies). Extracted data were meta-analysed. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO.

Results

3438 records were identified via search terms and four via citation lists; 2312 were retained after removal of duplicates, 99 were assessed for eligibility and 41 were included in our systematic review. 13 articles examined cannabis decriminalisation, 20 examined legalisation for medical purposes and 8 examined legalisation for recreational purposes. Findings regarding the consequences of cannabis decriminalisation or legalisation for medical purposes were too heterogeneous to be meta-analysed. Our systematic review and meta-analysis suggest a small increase in cannabis use among adolescents and young adults following legalisation of cannabis for recreational purposes (standardised mean difference of 0.03, 95% CI −0.01 to –0.07). Nevertheless, studies characterised by a very low/low risk of bias showed no evidence of changes in cannabis use following policy modifications.

Conclusions

Cannabis policy liberalisation does not appear to result in significant changes in youths’ use, with the possible exception of legalisation for recreational purposes that requires monitoring.

Trial registration number

CRD42018083950.
Efficacy of mindfulness-based intervention (‘mindfulness-based joyful sleep’) in young and middle-aged individuals with insomnia using a biomarker of inflammatory responses: a prospective protocol of a randomised controlled trial in China
Authors: Pan Chen , Wang Xiang , Deng Yunlong , Li Peihuan , Liao Yanhui , Ma Xin , Yang Guo-Ping , Dai Lisha , Tang Qiuping
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Insomnia is a prevalent and significant public health concern. Insomnia can lead to increased inflammatory markers associated with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer. Studies suggest that mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) are more easily delivered within the community than cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) which was recommended as the preferred non-pharmacological treatment by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, are effective in insomnia treatment and can reduce inflammatory markers level in older individuals with insomnia. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of an MBI to CBT-I in young and middle-aged individuals with insomnia disorder and explore its effect on nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), a transcription factor that controls the expression of genes involved in inflammation.

Methods and analysis

This report describes a protocol for a randomised controlled trial. Seventy eligible participants will be assigned to mindfulness-based joyful sleep or CBT-I for 2-hour sessions weekly for 8 weeks. The primary outcome is sleep quality assessed by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, severity of insomnia symptoms assessed by the Insomnia Severity Index and sleep parameters recorded using sleep diary and polysomnography. Secondary outcomes include perceived stress, anxiety and depression. The exploratory outcome is serum level of NF-κB. Outcomes will be evaluated at baseline, the end of the ntervention period and at a 3 month follow-up. Data will be analysed using general linear models, specifically analysis of covariance and analysis of variance will be used.

Ethics and dissemination

Full ethical approval for this study has been obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China (2018-S236). If Mindfulness-Based Joyful Sleep is proven effective, its dissemination will help bridge the gap between the unmet need and the demand for insomnia interventions in China.

Trial registration number

NCT03268629; Pre-results.
Association between self-reported length of time in the USA and blood lead levels: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013–2016
Authors: Horton Christelene Jack , Acharya Lalatendu , Wells Ellen M
Published: July 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study is to determine the association between length of time in the USA with blood lead (BPb).

Design

Population-based cross-sectional study using data from the 2013–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Setting

USA.

Participants

5933 men and women (≥15 years); subgroups of men only (n=2867), women only (n=3064) and women of childbearing age (15–45 years) (n=1580).

Primary and secondary outcomes

The primary outcome was BPb concentration. The main exposure variable was self-reported number of years spent in the USA, categorised as: born in the USA; 0–4 years; 5–9 years; 10–19 years and ≥20 years. We used linear regression models adjusted for race/ethnicity, education, blood cotinine, age, sex (as appropriate) and accounted for complex survey design.

Results

Women of childbearing age who have lived 0–4 years in the USA have, on average, a 54% (95% CI 36% to 75%) higher BPb compared with women born in the USA. Corresponding results for all women, men and the entire population were 49% (95% CI 34% to 66%), 49% (95% CI 28% to 75%) and 49% (95% CI 33% to 66%), respectively. Similar, statistically significant, results were observed for other time periods (5–9 years, 10–19 years and ≥20 years); the magnitude of the association decreased with increasing time in the USA.

Conclusions

This study provides additional evidence that newcomers to the USA may be a population at higher risk of elevated BPb.
Nosocomial infection prevalence in patients undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO): protocol for a point prevalence study across Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Corley Amanda , Lye India , Lavana Jayshree D , Ahuja Abhilasha , Anstey Chris M , Jarrett Paul , Haisz Emma , Parke Rachael , Pellegrino Vincent , Buscher Hergen , Fraser John F
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) provides cardiac and/or respiratory support when other therapies fail. Nosocomial infection is reported in up to 64% of patients receiving ECMO and increases morbidity and mortality. These patients are at high risk of infection due, in part, to the multiple invasive devices required in their management, the largest being the cannulae through which ECMO is delivered. Prevalence of nosocomial infection in ECMO patients, including ECMO cannula-related infection, is not well described across Australia and New Zealand.

Methods and analysis

This is a prospective, observational point prevalence study of 12 months duration conducted at 11 ECMO centres across Australia and New Zealand. Data will be collected for every patient receiving ECMO during 12 predetermined data collection weeks. The primary outcome is the prevalence of laboratory-confirmed bloodstream infection, and suspected or probable nosocomial infections; and the secondary outcomes include describing ECMO cannula dressing and securement practices, and adherence to local dressing and securement guidelines. Data collection will be finalised by March 2019.

Ethics and dissemination

Relevant ethical and governance approvals have been received. Study results will describe the prevalence of suspected and confirmed nosocomial infection in adult, paediatric and neonatal patients receiving ECMO across Australia and New Zealand. It is expected that the results will be hypothesis generating and lead to interventional trials aimed at reducing the high infection rates seen in this cohort. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at relevant conferences.

Trial registration number

ANZCTRN12618001109291; Pre-results.