bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Foreign Direct Investment Determinants in Oil Exporting Countries: Revisiting the Role of Natural Resources
Authors: Eissa Mohamed Abdelaziz , Elgammal Mohammed M.
Published: December 2019

This article explores the determinants of foreign direct investment (FDI) in oil-dependent economies and revisits the role of natural resources in attracting FDI to countries of this kind. Panel data from the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, namely Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have been employed, covering the period from 1990 to 2015. First, we investigate the FDI determinants during the entire sample period, and then run another investigation starting from the beginning of 2000, when the FDI in the GCC region increased substantially. The results show that there is a positive nexus between market growth, trade openness, inflation, infrastructure, oil price and FDI. Interestingly, oil reserves have a negative impact on FDI; this may be because countries with large reserves of oil like the GCC countries have enough financial resources to finance their economic development. This leads these governments to set up restrictions to protect their resources, thus reducing the amount of resource-seeking FDI.

JEL Codes: E22, F21, F23, F43, O13
Cutaneous apocrine cystomatosis in three slaughter-aged pigs
Authors: López-Figueroa Carlos , Domingo Mariano , Martí Bernat , Vidal Enric , Segalés Joaquim
Published: December 2019

Apocrine cystomatosis is a rare condition characterized by clusters of cystically dilated sweat glands or other specialized apocrine glands. Cystic dilation of cutaneous sweat glands has been described in humans, dogs, and cats, but not in pigs, to our knowledge. We describe herein linear, brown, colloid-filled cavities < 1 cm diameter within the subcutaneous fat of the entire dorsal region of carcasses of three 6-mo-old pigs. These incidental findings were detected during meat inspection in 3 different slaughterhouses in Catalonia, Spain. Histopathology revealed multiple cystic cavities lined by flattened glandular epithelium, filled with proteinaceous material, and corresponding to cystic hyperplasia of sweat glands.
Early experience and observations in endovascular dialysis fistula re-intervention
Authors: Jones Robert G , Khawaja Aurangzaib , Tullett Karen , Inston Nicholas G
Published: December 2019

In recent years, new emerging technology has allowed the endovascular creation of dialysis fistulas in the proximal forearm without the need for open surgery. Two such systems currently exist, and evidence to date has demonstrated high rates of technical success in fistula creation, high rates of dialysis functionality, and low rates of re-intervention using both systems. Whilst early trial data has demonstrated lower rates of re-intervention to maintain patency compared to surgical fistulas, endovascular re-interventions are still required to maintain functionality. The endovascular fistula (endoAVF) typically exhibits a shared drainage pattern and is morphologically distinct from the surgical fistula and patterns of failure observed often differ to what has been traditionally encountered. A fresh approach and understanding is therefore required and here we share our observations and experience of endovascular re-intervention in endoAVF created with the Wavelinq system.
‘Now that I know what you’re about’: black feminist reflections on power in the research relationship
Authors: Hamilton Patricia
Published: December 2019

Feminists have identified reflexivity as a particularly incisive tool for navigating shifting power dynamics, using it to draw attention to how a researcher’s positionality informs every aspect of the research process, from development of the research question to interactions with research participants. In this article, I describe my reflections as a black feminist researcher conducting research with black women. I examine the unexpected ways in which power can manifest during the research process, complicating the theoretical advice offered by institutional ethics board and feminist methodology textbooks. Intersectionality serves as a useful tool to tease out these dilemmas and though it cannot preempt or solve all challenges, it provides reflexive space for exploring such dilemmas and a tool for navigating power in the research process.
Complexity reduction method for High Efficiency Video Coding encoding based on scene-change detection and image texture information
Authors: Lee Hong-rae , Ahn Eun-bin , Kim A-young , Seo Kwang-deok
Published: December 2019

Recently, as demand for high-quality video and realistic media has increased, High Efficiency Video Coding has been standardized. However, High Efficiency Video Coding requires heavy cost in terms of computational complexity to achieve high coding efficiency, which causes problems in fast coding processing and real-time processing. In particular, High Efficiency Video Coding inter-coding has heavy computational complexity, and the High Efficiency Video Coding inter prediction uses reference pictures to improve coding efficiency. The reference pictures are typically signaled in two independent lists according to the display order, to be used for forward and backward prediction. If an event occurs in the input video, such as a scene change, the inter prediction performs unnecessary computations. Therefore, the reference picture list should be reconfigured to improve the inter prediction performance and reduce computational complexity. To address this problem, this article proposes a method to reduce computational complexity for fast High Efficiency Video Coding encoding using information such as scene changes obtained from the input video through preprocessing. Furthermore, reference picture lists are reconstructed by sorting the reference pictures by similarity to the current coded picture using Angular Second Moment, Contrast, Entropy, and Correlation, which are image texture parameters from the input video. Simulations are used to show that both the encoding time and coding efficiency could be improved simultaneously by applying the proposed algorithms.
Evolving paradigms in antithrombotic therapy for anticoagulated patients undergoing coronary stenting
Authors: Buccheri Sergio , Angiolillo Dominick J. , Capodanno Davide
Published: December 2019

A sizable proportion of coronary artery disease (CAD) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stent implantation have an indication for treatment with oral anticoagulant therapy (OAC). The coexistence of atrial fibrillation (AF) and the need for PCI expose patients to a higher risk of developing thrombotic complications, and a multitargeted antithrombotic treatment strategy, addressing both platelet- and coagulation-mediated triggering mechanisms of thrombosis, is necessary for ensuring full protection from ischemic hazards. The increased bleeding risk identified with triple antithrombotic therapy has driven the search for alternative treatment modalities and pharmacological combination strategies aimed at achieving an optimal balance between safety and efficacy in this complex clinical scenario. Over a short time period, the paradigms surrounding the management of patients undergoing PCI who require OAC have substantially evolved. In this review, we summarize and critically evaluate the results of recent randomized clinical trials investigating the pharmacological management of patients who, in addition to antiplatelet therapy, have an indication for OAC treatment before or at the time of a PCI procedure.
A comparative numerical study to compute ocular injury in boxing
Authors: Razaghi Reza , Biglari Hasan
Published: December 2019

Sport is responsible for between 25% and 40% of all eye injuries. Trauma is integrated to the nature of the sport, especially boxing, which is considered a high-risk sport for ocular injuries. Boxing not only brings about injury to the external side of the eye, but in nearly one third of cases, the intraocular components of the eye are also damaged, followed by serious visual acuity complications. However, so far there is a paucity of knowledge on the ocular injury as a result of a strong hook to the face during boxing. This study was, therefore, aimed to perform a dynamic finite element simulation to calculate the stresses and deformations to the components of the eye (i.e. the cornea, aqueous body, iris, ciliary body, vitreous body, sclera, retina, and optic nerve) as a consequence of a hook to the zygomatic and frontal skull bones of a boxer. To do that, well-verified finite element models of the human skull, eye, and punch developed by the current authors were employed to simulate the traumatic model of the skull. The resulting von Mises stresses and deformations in each component of the eye were calculated and compared. The results revealed higher stresses in the components of the eye as a result of a frontal impact compared to that of the zygomatic one. The concentration of the von Mises stresses in the eye components was mostly located in the lateral circumference of the globe. Regardless of the impact sites, the muscle experienced severe damage while the cornea, as the most anterior, and optic nerve, as the most posterior components of the eye, stayed safe with trivial amounts of stress and deformation. These results have implications not only for understanding the possible ocular injuries from a hook but also for providing comprehensive information to medical experts regarding the types of ocular injuries which may occur during boxing.
Under-the-Mango-Tree: a theatre-based male EMTCT engagement intervention in post-conflict northern Uganda
Authors: Komakech Morris D. C.
Published: December 2019

Male involvement in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care cascades is identified as a critical prerequisite for the successful elimination of mother-to-child transfer of HIV. Scant evidence exists on efficacious culturally appropriate and male-inclusive elimination of mother-to-child transfer interventions. This reflection-in-action paper highlights field notes and observations of the development of Under-the- Mango-Tree, a theatre-based male-inclusive intervention pilot tested in northern Uganda. The intervention included: (a) traditional drama, dances and songs and (b) expert testimonies and group dialogue. Observations in this pilot showed that a theatre-based intervention was suitable for social persuasion; role modelling and moderating mastery of experience through effectively combining simple songs, dances and drama; testimonies of successful adherence by expert clients; and through reflective group discussions. These observations have implications for male-inclusive elimination of mother-to-child transfer intervention development.
Impact of sleep duration during pregnancy on the risk of gestational diabetes in the Japan environmental and Children’s study (JECS)
Authors:   Japan Environment and Children’s Study, Myoga Mai , Tsuji Mayumi , Tanaka Rie , Shibata Eiji , Askew David J. , Aiko Yukiyo , Senju Ayako , Kawamoto Toshihiro , Hachisuga Toru , Araki Shunsuke , Kusuhara Koichi , Morokuma Seiichi , Sanefuji Masafumi
Published: December 2019

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has serious effects on both mother and child. Like Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, it is increasing in prevalence world-wide. In addition to obesity, sleep duration has been named an important risk factor. Using a large cohort study, including data from 48,787 participants of the Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS), we examined the association between sleep duration and both random blood glucose levels and GDM rates during pregnancy.

Methods

Random blood glucose levels were measured during pregnancy. GDM diagnosis was based on the results of 75 g oral glucose tolerance test. Additional anthropometric data was collected from questionnaires for statistical analysis.

Results

Compared to mothers averaging 7 to < 10 h sleep (reference group), women receiving < 5 h or ≥ 10 h sleep exhibited significantly elevated random blood glucose levels. This was associated with an elevated risk for positive GDM screening (< 5 h sleep: OR 1.17 (0.96–1.44)p = 0.126; ≥10 h sleep: OR 1.13 (1.03–1.25)p = 0.006). Calculating the risk for GDM, women sleeping < 5 h or ≥ 10 h exhibited elevated risks of 1.31-fold and 1.21 respectively. However, this trend was not found to be significant.

Conclusions

Sleep is a critical factor in glucose metabolism, with both abnormally long and short sleep duration increasing random blood glucose levels in pregnant women. Moreover, the risk for positive GDM screening increases significantly with elevated sleep, ≥10 h per night. These findings are promising because they support the idea that sleep duration is a modifiable risk factor, and can be focused upon to improve health and pregnancy outcome.
Relative difference in muscle strength between patients with knee osteoarthritis and healthy controls when tested bilaterally and joint-inclusive: an exploratory cross-sectional study
Authors: Vårbakken K. , Lorås H. , Nilsson K. G. , Engdal M. , Stensdotter A. K.
Published: December 2019

Background

To improve the goal-directedness of strength exercises for patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA), physical rehabilitation specialists need to know which muscle-groups are most substantially weakened across the kinetic chain of both lower extremities. The purpose was to improve the knowledge base for strength exercise therapy. The objective was to explore the relative differences in muscle strength in the main directions bilaterally across the hip, knee, and ankle joints between patients with light-to-moderate symptomatic and radiographic KOA and people without knee complaints.

Methods

The design was an exploratory, patient vs. healthy control, and cross-sectional study in primary/secondary care. Twenty-eight patients with mild to moderate KOA (18 females, mean age 61) and 31 matched healthy participants (16 females, mean age 55), participated. Peak strength was tested concentrically or isometrically in all main directions for the hip, knee, and ankle joints bilaterally, and compared between groups. Strength was measured by a Biodex Dynamometer or a Commander II Muscle Tester (Hand-Held Dynamometer). Effect sizes (ES) as Cohen’sdwere applied to scale and rank the difference in strength measures between the groups. Adjustment for age was performed by analysis of covariance.

Results

The most substantial muscle weaknesses were found for ankle eversion and hip external and internal rotation in the involved leg in the KOA-group compared to the control-group (ES [95% CI] −0.73 [−1.26,-0.20], − 0.74 [−1.26,-0.21], −0.71 [−1.24,-0.19], respectively;p < 0.01). Additionally, smaller but still significant moderate muscle weaknesses were indicated in four joint–strength directions: the involved leg’s ankle inversion, ankle plantar flexion, and knee extension, as well as the uninvolved leg’s ankle dorsal flexion (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference for 17 of 24 tests.

Conclusions

For patients with KOA between 45 and 70 years old, these explorative findings indicate the most substantial weaknesses of the involved leg to be in ankle and hip muscles with main actions in the frontal and transverse plane in the kinetic chain of importance during gait. Slightly less substantial, they also indicate important weakness of the knee extensor muscles. Confirmatory studies are needed to further validate these exploratory findings.
A pilot trial on lithium disilicate partial crowns using a novel prosthodontic functional index for teeth (FIT)
Authors: Cagidiaco Edoardo Ferrari , Grandini Simone , Goracci Cecilia , Joda Tim
Published: December 2019

Background

Lithium disilicate is now a well accepted material for indirect restorations. The aim of this trial was to evaluate two lithium disilicate systems using a novel prosthodontic Functional Index for Teeth (FIT).

Methods

Partial adhesive crowns on natural abutment posterior teeth were made on sixty patients. Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 IPS e.max press (Ivoclar-Vivadent, Schaan, Liecthestein), and Group 2 Initial LiSi press (GC Co., Tokyo, Japan). The restorations were followed-up for 3 years, and the FIT evaluation was performed at last recall. The FIT is composed of seven variables (Interproximal, Occlusion, Design, Mucosa, Bone, Biology and Margins), each of them are evaluated using a 0–1-2 scoring scheme, and is investigated by an oral radiograph and occlusal and buccal pictures. More in details, three variables have the three scores made on the presence or not of major, minor or no discrepancy (for ‘Interproximal’, ‘Occlusion’ and ‘Design’), presence or not of keratinized and attached gingiva (‘Mucosa’), presence of bone loss > 1.5 mm, < 1.5 mm or not detectable (‘Bone’), presence or not of Bleeding on Probing and or Plaque Index (‘Biology’), presence of detectable gap and marginal stain or not (‘Margins’). The Mann-Whitney ‘U’ test was used and the level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Also, “success” of the crowns (restoration in place without any biological or technical complication) and “survival” (restoration still in place with biological or technical complication) were evaluated.

Results

Regarding FIT scores, all partial crowns showed a stable level of the alveolar crest without detectable signs of bone loss in the radiographic analysis. All other evaluated parameters showed a high score, between 1.73 and 2. No statistically significant difference emerged between the two groups in any of the assessed variables (p > 0.05). All FIT scores were compatible with the outcome of clinical success and no one restoration was replaced or repaired and the success rate was 100%.

Conclusions

The results showed that it is possible to evaluate the clinical performance of partial crowns using FIT. The FIT proved to be an effective tool to monitor the performance of the restorations and their compatibility with periodontal tissues at the recall. The FIT can be really helpful for a standardized evaluation of the quality of the therapy in prosthodontic dentistry. The two lithium disilicate materials showed similar results after 3 years of clinical service.

Trial registration

The study protocol was approved by the Ethical Committee of University of Siena (clinicaltrial.gov # NCT 01835821), ‘retrospectively registered’.
Case report: optimal tumor cytoreduction and octreotide with durable disease control in a patient with MEN-1 and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome—over a decade of follow-up
Authors: Daniels Lynsey M. , Khalili Marian , Morano William F. , Simoncini Michaela , Mapow Beth C. , Leaf Andrea , Bowne Wilbur B.
Published: December 2019

Background

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (ZES) is a rare condition characterized by hypersecretion of gastrin by gastrinoma tumors leading to severe peptic ulcer disease with potential development of gastric carcinoid tumors. Herein, we report the clinical course of a 68-year-old patient with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN-1) who underwent several surgeries to ultimately undergo optimal tumor cytoreduction of locally advanced gastrinomas and symptomatic gastric carcinoids. The patient was subsequently maintained on octreotide long-acting release (LAR). This case report supports consideration for aggressive tumor cytoreduction and octreotide in similar patients with MEN-1-associated ZES for durable disease control and symptom management.

Case presentation

The patient is a 68-year-old male with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN-1), diagnosed in 1993 after presenting with recurrent renal calculi and hypercalcemia. Soon thereafter, he presented with symptoms and elevated gastrin levels suggestive of ZES prompting abdominal exploration with partial resection of the duodenum to remove gastrinoma tumor nodules. Within 4 years of the operation, he represented with intractable hypergastrinemia despite optimal medical management with peak gastrin levels exceeding 29,000 pg/mL, in 2006. In January 2007, the patient returned to the operating room for resection of regional peripancreatic and perigastric lymph nodes and enucleation of pancreatic body and tail gastrinoma tumors. Although his gastrin level decreased to 5000 pg/mL with resultant improvement of symptoms, in less than 2 years, he developed disease progression with obstructive symptomatology from enlarging gastric carcinoids and rising gastrin levels. In May of 2008, he underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy and near-total gastrectomy. Since June of 2008, the patient shows no demonstrable progression of disease and remains asymptomatic on LAR octreotide (30 mgs). Gastrin levels have been well controlled (range, 100–624 pg/mL; current 114 pg/mL).

Conclusion

Success of this procedure in our case report highlights the potential role for optimal tumor cytoreduction and LAR octreotide to control disease progression in a patient with MEN-I and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome with locally advanced gastrinoma and secondary large gastric carcinoids.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: LncRNA TUG1 was upregulated in osteoporosis
and regulates the proliferation and apoptosis of osteoclasts
Authors: Han Ye , Liu Chunying , Lei Ming , Sun Shaosong , Zheng Wenkui , Niu Yanan , Xia Xi
Published: December 2019

Background

Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) TUG1 plays critical roles in the
development of human cancers. Its inhibition has been proved to participate in
ankylosing spondylitis, which is an inverse pathological procedure of
osteoporosis. In the present study, we aim to investigate the role of lncRNA
TUG1 in ankylosing spondylitis.

Materials and methods

Expressions of lncRNA TUG1 in plasma of 98 patients with
osteoporosis and 60 healthy participants were detected by real-time quantitative
PCR (RT-qPCR). Diagnostic values of lncRNA CASC11 for osteoclasts were performed
by the ROC curve with osteoporosis patients as positive and healthy participants
as negative. All experiments were repeated 3 times. Mean ± standard deviation
was calculated.

Results

We found that plasma lncRNA TUG1 was upregulated in osteoporosis
patients than in healthy participants. Upregulation of plasma lncRNA TUG1
distinguished osteoporosis patients from healthy participants. LncRNA TUG1 level
increased with the advances of clinical stages. Over-expression of lncRNA TUG1
promoted the proliferation and inhibited the apoptosis of mice osteoclasts,
while lncRNA TUG1 siRNA silencing played an opposite role. In addition, lncRNA
TUG1 over-expression led to downregulated PTEN, while lncRNA TUG1 siRNA
silencing played an opposite role.

Conclusion

Therefore, lncRNA TUG1 is upregulated in osteoporosis and regulates
the proliferation and apoptosis of osteoclasts. lncRNA TUG1 knockdown may serve
as a promising therapeutic target for osteoporosis by inhibiting the
proliferation and promoting the apoptosis of osteoclasts through PTEN.
Effect of nursing intervention via a chatting tool on the rehabilitation of patients after Total hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Luo Jing , Dong Xiaohua , Hu Jing
Published: December 2019

Background

Nursing intervention following discharge is a long-term rehabilitation process that is essential for improving hip joint function and quality of life in affected patients. This study aimed to assess the effect of nursing intervention via WeChat on the rehabilitation of patients after total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 232 patients who underwent THA at our hospital from January 2013 to October 2015. Of the 232 patients, 114 received nursing intervention via telephone (Group A), and 118 received nursing intervention via WeChat (Group B). Furthermore, the Harris hip score and Short-Form 36 (SF-36) health survey score were used to evaluate hip joint function and quality of life in patients in the two groups at discharge and 1, 3 and 6 months following discharge. Moreover, the functional independence measure was applied to assess the recovery of joint function in the patients.

Results

No significant difference was observed in the Harris hip score and the SF-36 health survey score between the two groups at discharge and 1 month following discharge (p > 0.05). However, the Harris hip score and SF-36 health survey score were lower in group A than in group B at 3 and 6 months following discharge (p < 0.05). Furthermore, no obvious difference was observed in terms of functional independence between the two groups at discharge (p > 0.05). However, more individuals were completely independent in group B than in group A at 1, 3 and 6 months following discharge (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Nursing intervention via WeChat can improve the effect of rehabilitation after THA and promote the recovery of joint function in patients.
Correction to: A meta-analysis of the relationship between vaginal microecology, human papillomavirus infection and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Liang Yuejuan , Chen Mengjie , Qin Lu , Wan Bing , Wang He
Published: December 2019

In the original publication of this article [1] there was an error in the results section of the article.
KONTAKT© for Australian adolescents on the autism spectrum: protocol of a randomized control trial
Authors: Afsharnejad Bahareh , Falkmer Marita , Black Melissa H. , Alach Tasha , Lenhard Fabian , Fridell Anna , Coco Christina , Milne Kelly , Chen Nigel T. M. , Bölte Sven , Girdler Sonya
Published: December 2019

Background

Individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience impairing challenges in social communication and interaction across multiple contexts. While social skills group training (SSGT) has shown moderate effects on various sociability outcomes in ASD, there is a need for (1) replication of effects in additional clinical and cultural contexts, (2) designs that employ active control groups, (3) calculation of health economic benefits, (4) identification of the optimal training duration, and (5) measurement of individual goals and quality of life outcomes.

Method/design

With the aim of investigating the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of a SSGT, KONTAKT©, a two-armed randomized control trial with adolescents aged 12–17 years (N = 90) with ASD and an intelligence quotient (IQ) of over 70 will be undertaken. Following stratification for centre and gender, participants will be randomly assigned to either KONTAKT© or to an active control group, a group-based cooking programme. Participants will attend both programmes in groups of 6–8 adolescents, over 16 one-and-a-half-hour sessions. The primary outcome examined is adolescent self-rated achievement of personally meaningful social goals as assessed via the Goal Attainment Scaling during an interview with a blinded clinician. Secondary outcomes include adolescent self-reported interpersonal efficacy, quality of life, social anxiety, loneliness, face emotion recognition performance and associated gaze behaviour, and parent proxy reports of autistic traits, quality of life, social functioning, and emotion recognition and expression. Cost-effectiveness will be investigated in relation to direct and indirect societal and healthcare costs.

Discussion

The primary outcomes of this study will be evidenced in the anticipated achievement of adolescents’ personally meaningful social goals following participation in KONTAKT© as compared to the active control group. This design will enable rigorous evaluation of the efficacy of KONTAKT©, exercising control over the possibly confounding effect of exposure to a social context of peers with a diagnosis of ASD.

Trial registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR). ACTRN12617001117303. Registered on 31 July 2017. anzctr.org.au

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03294668. Registered on 22 September 2017. https://clinicaltrials.gov
Multiple drug resistance in the canine hookworm Ancylostoma caninum: an emerging threat?
Authors: Jimenez Castro Pablo D. , Howell Sue B. , Schaefer John J. , Avramenko Russell W. , Gilleard John S. , Kaplan Ray M.
Published: December 2019

Background

The canine hookworm,Ancylostoma caninumis the most prevalent and important intestinal nematode parasite of dogs in the USA. Hookworms are typically well controlled by treatment with all commonly used anthelmintics that are approved for this use in dogs. However, in the past few years, cases of recurrent/persistent canine hookworm infections appear to have dramatically increased, suggesting that anthelmintic resistance (AR) may have evolved in this parasite. These cases are highly overrepresented by greyhounds, but multiple other breeds are also represented. The aim of this study was to characterize several of these suspected resistant isolates usingin vitro, genetic and clinical testing to determine if these cases represent true anthelmintic resistance inA. caninum.

Methods

Fecal samples containing hookworm eggs from three cases of persistent hookworm infections; one from a greyhound, one from a miniature schnauzer and one from a hound-mix, were received by our laboratory. These were then used to establish infections in laboratory dogs and to perform egg hatch assays (EHA) and larval development assays (LDA) for detecting resistance to benzimidazoles and macrocyclic lactones, respectively. Additional EHA and LDA were performed on eggs recovered from the laboratory-induced infections. Fecal egg count reduction tests were performed to detect resistance to pyrantel. Deep amplicon sequencing assays were developed to measure the frequency of non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) at codons 167, 198 and 200 of theA. caninumisotype-1 β-tubulin gene.

Results

Resistance ratios for the threeA. caninumisolates tested ranged from 6.0 to > 100 and 5.5 to 69.8 for the EHA and LDA, respectively. Following treatment with pyrantel, reduction in faecal egg counts was negative or 0%. Deep amplicon sequencing of the isotype-1 β-tubulin gene identified a high frequency of resistance-associated SNPs at codon 167 in all three resistant isolates and in two additional clinical cases.

Conclusions

These data conclusively demonstrate multiple anthelmintic resistance in multiple independent isolates ofA. caninum, strongly suggesting that this is an emerging problem in the USA. Furthermore, evidence suggest that these resistant hookworms originate from racing greyhound farms and kennels, though additional research is needed to confirm this.
Atypical secondary syphilis presentation in a patient with human immunodeficiency virus infection: a case report
Authors: Yancheva Nina , Petrova Elena , Tchervenyakova Tatyana
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Untreated syphilis may lead to severe complications. This infection has recently re-emerged in developed countries with a high number of cases coinfected with human immunodeficiency virus. In these patients, the skin lesions of secondary syphilis can be very atypical.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 38-year-old Bulgarian homosexual man who was coinfected with human immunodeficiency virus and syphilis. His skin contained multiple extensive necrotic lesions with abundant purulent secretion that covered his face, lips, scalp, and torso. Initial clinical diagnoses included varicella pustulosa and staphylococcal dermatitis. Human immunodeficiency virus infection in our patient had been established 2 years earlier in prophylactic studies, but had not been treated. Due to lack of penicillin, he was successfully treated with ceftriaxone, and the skin lesions underwent complete reversal. He also began antiretroviral therapy, which resulted in a significant effect on his immune status. Three months after the onset of antiretroviral therapy, he also achieved optimal viral suppression.

Conclusion

This case emphasizes the importance of considering cutaneous secondary syphilis in the differential diagnosis of any inflammatory cutaneous disorder in individuals infected with human immunodeficiency virus.
Low septal to lateral wall 18F-FDG ratio is highly associated with mechanical dyssynchrony in non-ischemic CRT candidates
Authors: Degtiarova Ganna , Claus Piet , Duchenne Jürgen , Cvijic Marta , Schramm Georg , Nuyts Johan , Voigt Jens-Uwe , Gheysens Olivier
Published: December 2019

Background

In order to better understand the concept of mechanical dyssynchrony, a promising hallmark of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) response, we investigated its effect on regional myocardial metabolism and myocardial blood flow (MBF) in non-ischemic CRT candidates.

Results

Thirty consecutive non-ischemic CRT eligible patients underwent static 18F-FDG and resting dynamic 13N-NH3 PET/CT. 18F-FDG uptake and MBF for septal and lateral wall were analysed and septal-to-lateral wall ratios (SLR) were calculated. Based on the presence of mechanical dyssynchrony (septal flash and/or apical rocking) on echocardiography, patients were divided into 2 groups, with (n = 23) and without (n = 7) mechanical dyssynchrony.

Patients with mechanical dyssynchrony had significantly lower 18F-FDG SUVmean in the septum compared with the lateral wall (5.58 ± 2.65 vs 11.19 ± 4.10, p < 0.0001), while patients without mechanical dyssynchrony had a more homogeneous 18F-FDG distribution (7.33 ± 2.88 vs 8.31 ± 2.50, respectively, p = 0.30). Similarly, MBF was significantly different between the septal and lateral wall in the dyssynchrony group (0.57 ± 0.11 ml/g/min vs 0.92 ± 0.23 ml/g/min, respectively, p < 0.0001), whereas no difference was observed in the non-dyssynchrony group (0.61 ± 0.23 ml/g/min vs 0.77 ± 0.21 ml/g/min, respectively, p = 0.16). 18F-FDG SLR, but not MBF SLR, was associated with the presence of mechanical dyssynchrony and showed a significant inverse correlation with volumetric reverse remodeling after CRT (r = − 0.62, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Non-ischemic heart failure patients with mechanical dyssynchrony demonstrate heterogeneous regional metabolism and MBF compared with patients without dyssynchrony. However, only 18F-FDG SLR appeared to be highly associated with the presence of mechanical dyssynchrony.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials, NCT02537782. Registered 2 September 2015.
Almost sure local central limit theorem for the product of some partial sums of negatively associated sequences
Authors: Xu Feng , Wang Binhui , Hou Yawen
Published: December 2019

The almost sure local central limit theorem is a general result which contains the almost sure global central limit theorem. Let $\{X_{k},k\geq 1\}${Xk,k≥1} be a strictly stationary negatively associated sequence of positive random variables. Under the regular conditions, we discuss an almost sure local central limit theorem for the product of some partial sums $(\prod_{i=1}^{k} S_{k,i}/((k-1)^{k}\mu^{k}))^{\mu/(\sigma\sqrt{k})}$(∏i=1kSk,i/((k−1)kμk))μ/(σk), where $\mathbb{E}X_{1}=\mu$EX1=μ, $\sigma^{2}={\mathbb{E}(X_{1}-\mu)^{2}}+2\sum_{k=2}^{\infty}\mathbb{E}(X_{1}-\mu)(X_{k}-\mu)$σ2=E(X1−μ)2+2∑k=2∞E(X1−μ)(Xk−μ), $S_{k,i}=\sum_{j=1}^{k}X_{j}-X_{i}$Sk,i=∑j=1kXj−Xi.
The age-performance relationship in the general population and strategies to delay age related decline in performance
Authors: Berthelot Geoffroy , Johnson Stacey , Noirez Philippe , Antero Juliana , Marck Adrien , Desgorces François-Denis , Pifferi Fabien , Carter Patrick A. , Spedding Michael , Manoux Archana Singh , Toussaint Jean-François
Published: December 2019

The age-performance relationship describes changes in the organism’s structural and functional capabilities over the course of the lifespan. The typical, empirical pattern is an asymmetrical inverted-U shape association with peak capacity occurring early in life. This process is well described in the literature, with an increasing interest in features that characterize this pattern, such as the rate of growth, age of peak performance, and rate of decline with aging. This is usually examined in cohorts of individuals followed over time with repeat assessments of physical or cognitive abilities. This framework ought to be integrated into public health programs, embedding the beneficial (such as physical or cognitive training) or adverse effects (such as chronic diseases or injuries) that respectively sustain or limit capabilities. The maintenance of physical or cognitive performances at older ages would result in both optimal health and promote resistance to disabling conditions and chronic diseases, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. The causes of accelerated degeneration of health optima are mainly: sedentary and unhealthy lifestyles -including poor nutrition-, exposure to environmental pollutants, and heterogeneity in aging. Better knowledge of optima, compatible with or required for good health, should also allow for establishing ideal conditions for longevity.
Detecting neurodegenerative pathology in multiple sclerosis before irreversible brain tissue loss sets in
Authors: Van Schependom Jeroen , Guldolf Kaat , D’hooghe Marie Béatrice , Nagels Guy , D’haeseleer Miguel
Published: December 2019

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a complex chronic inflammatory and degenerative disorder of the central nervous system. Accelerated brain volume loss, or also termed atrophy, is currently emerging as a popular imaging marker of neurodegeneration in affected patients, but, unfortunately, can only be reliably interpreted at the time when irreversible tissue damage likely has already occurred. Timing of treatment decisions based on brain atrophy may therefore be viewed as suboptimal.

Main body

This Narrative Review focuses on alternative techniques with the potential of detecting neurodegenerative events in the brain of subjects with MS prior to the atrophic stage. First, metabolic and molecular imaging provide the opportunity to identify early subcellular changes associated with energy dysfunction, which is an assumed core mechanism of axonal degeneration in MS. Second, cerebral hypoperfusion has been observed throughout the entire clinical spectrum of the disorder but it remains an open question whether this serves as an alternative marker of reduced metabolic activity, or exists as an independent contributing process, mediated by endothelin-1 hyperexpression. Third, both metabolic and perfusion alterations may lead to repercussions at the level of network performance and structural connectivity, respectively assessable by functional and diffusion tensor imaging. Fourth and finally, elevated body fluid levels of neurofilaments are gaining interest as a biochemical mirror of axonal damage in a wide range of neurological conditions, with early rises in patients with MS appearing to be predictive of future brain atrophy.

Conclusions

Recent findings from the fields of advanced neuroradiology and neurochemistry provide the promising prospect of demonstrating degenerative brain pathology in patients with MS before atrophy has installed. Although the overall level of evidence on the presented topic is still preliminary, this Review may pave the way for further longitudinal and multimodal studies exploring the relationships between the abovementioned measures, possibly leading to novel insights in early disease mechanisms and therapeutic intervention strategies.
Validation of a brief mental health screening tool for pregnant women in a low socio-economic setting
Authors: Abrahams Zulfa , Schneider Marguerite , Field Sally , Honikman Simone
Published: December 2019

Background

In South Africa, the prevalence of symptoms of common mental disorders (CMD), i.e. depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts are high. This study aimed to use a cognitive interviewing technique to validate the content and structure of a 4-item screening tool, to adapt the tool accordingly, and to use receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis to determine the optimum cut-point for identifying pregnant women with symptoms of CMD.

Methods

We conducted a mixed method study at a Midwife Obstetric Unit in Cape Town. Women attending the clinic for their first antenatal visit during the recruitment period, whose first language was English, Afrikaans or isiXhosa, were invited to participate. A 4-item screening tool was administered in the first language of the interviewee, after which a cognitive interviewing technique was used to examine the question-response processes and considerations used by respondents as they formed answers to the screening tool questions. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to identify women with symptoms of CMD.

Results

A 2-week recall period performed well. Questions about (1) being unable to stop worrying, or thinking too much, (2) feeling down, depressed or hopeless, and (3) having thoughts and plans to harm yourself, were well understood. The question that referred to feeling little interest or pleasure in doing things, was poorly understood across all languages. Using ROC analysis with the EPDS as the reference standard, and a cut-point of ≥13, we showed that a 3-item version of the screening tool was able to correctly classify 91% of the women screened.

Conclusions

Cognitive interviewing enabled testing and refining of the language and constructs of an ultra-brief screening tool. The shortened, 3-item tool is well understood and effective at identifying pregnant women with symptoms of CMD, across the three most commonly spoken languages and cultures in Cape Town.
Dynamics of animal joint space use: a novel application of a time series approach
Authors: French Justin T. , Wang Hsiao-Hsuan , Grant William E. , Tomeček John M.
Published: December 2019

Background

Animal use is a dynamic phenomenon, emerging from the movements of animals responding to a changing environment. Interactions between animals are reflected in patterns of joint space use, which are also dynamic. High frequency sampling associated with GPS telemetry provides detailed data that capture space use through time. However, common analyses treat joint space use as static over relatively long periods, masking potentially important changes. Furthermore, linking temporal variation in interactions to covariates remains cumbersome. We propose a novel method for analyzing the dynamics of joint space use that permits straightforward incorporation of covariates. This method builds upon tools commonly used by researchers, including kernel density estimators, utilization distribution intersection metrics, and extensions of linear models.

Methods

We treat the intersection of the utilization distributions of two individuals as a time series. The series is linked to covariates using copula-based marginal beta regression, an alternative to generalized linear models. This approach accommodates temporal autocorrelation and the bounded nature of the response variable. Parameters are easily estimated with maximum likelihood and trend and error structures can be modeled separately. We demonstrate the approach by analyzing simulated data from two hypothetical individuals with known utilization distributions, as well as field data from two coyotes (Canis latrans) responding to appearance of a carrion resource in southern Texas.

Results

Our analysis of simulated data indicated reasonably precise estimates of joint space use can be achieved with commonly used GPS sampling rates (s.e.=0.029 at 150 locations per interval). Our analysis of field data identified an increase in spatial interactions between the coyotes that persisted for the duration of the study, beyond the expected duration of the carrion resource. Our analysis also identified a period of increased spatial interactions before appearance of the resource, which would not have been identified by previous methods.

Conclusions

We present a new approach to the analysis of joint space use through time, building upon tools commonly used by ecologists, that permits a new level of detail in the analysis of animal interactions. The results are easily interpretable and account for the nuances of bounded serial data in an elegant way.
Rhinitis medicamentosa: A nationwide survey of Canadian otolaryngologists
Authors: Fowler James , Chin Christopher J. , Massoud Emad
Published: December 2019

Background

Rhinitis medicamentosa is a non-allergic form of rhinitis that is typically caused by prolonged use of topical nasal decongestants. This condition commonly affects young adults and treatment is not trivial. We aimed to survey Canadian Otolaryngologists to determine practice patterns and their opinions regarding this under-studied condition.

Methods

An electronic survey was sent to practicing Otolaryngologists within the Canadian Society of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. The survey contained 16 questions pertaining to the diagnosis and treatment of rhinitis medicamentosa, as well as opinions on public and primary care awareness of proper use of nasal decongestants.

Results

The survey was distributed to 533 Otolaryngologists and 69 surveys were returned (response rate of 13%). Cessation and weaning of decongestant (96%), and intranasal steroids (94%) were the most common methods for treating RM. Intranasal saline rinses (55%) and oral steroids (25%) were also supported by some respondents. For those who recommended cessation/weaning, 61% also concurrently introduced an intranasal steroid during this process. The majority responded that current warnings on nasal decongestants were inadequate (75%), and were not visible enough (79%).

Conclusions

Rhinitis medicamentosa is a common, and very preventable condition. Although the literature lacks a standardized approach to RM, our survey has shown that many Otolaryngologists diagnose and treat RM in a similar manner. Treatment tends to focus on decongestant cessation, often with concurrent introduction of intranasal steroids. It was felt the warning labels on the topical medications are not currently satisfactory.
The comparative analysis of marketing activities among rural women entrepreneurs in Fars province, Iran
Authors: Rezaei-Moghaddam Kurosh , Karami Ommolbani , Fatemi Mahsa
Published: December 2019

Entrepreneurship has become the crucial subject of discussion among social and economic development specialists as the key to solving problems and reducing obstacles to human development. On the other hand, marketing is also considered as a main factor for entrepreneurial businesses’ survival and progress. Thus, low marketing skills in small businesses often lead to lower performance levels and higher risk failures. The present study aimed to identify and analyze the marketing activities among rural women entrepreneurs. This research was conducted using a survey method among women entrepreneurs who were the members of agricultural development specialized holding companies in Fars province, Iran. A random sampling method was used to select 307 rural entrepreneurial women. According to the findings, marketing methods such as face-to-face advertising, making phone calls, participating in exhibitions, and sending text messages by women entrepreneurs are widely used. In applying the marketing methods, paying attention to the components of the marketing mix, and applying marketing strategy, women entrepreneurs in Marvdasht had the highest score. The entrepreneurial women in Marvdasht are more risk-takers, who use both marketing methods and strategies more often than women in other cities of Fars. Finally, some suggestions were presented to improve women entrepreneurs’ marketing activities.