bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endangered but genetically stable—Erythrophleum fordii within Feng Shui woodlands in suburbanized villages
Authors: Wang Zheng‐Feng , Liu Hai‐Lin , Dai Se‐Ping , Cao Hong‐Lin , Wang Rui‐Jiang , Wang Zhang‐Ming
Published: September 2019

Feng Shui woodlands are naturally or artificially formed green areas in southern China. They are precious for maintaining ecosystem balance in modern semiurban environments. However, they are generally small and geographically isolated from each other, and the status of genetic diversity of the plant species within them has been almost neglected. Therefore, we studied the genetic diversity of the endangered Erythrophleum fordii in eight Feng Shui woodlands (a total of 1,061 individuals) in Guangzhou, a large city in southern China, using microsatellites. For comparison, one population with 33 individuals sampled in a nature reserve was also studied. Although our results indicate that significant demographic declines occurred historically in E. fordii, such declines have not resulted in consistent reductions in genetic variation over generations in Feng Shui populations in the recent past, and the levels of genetic variation in these populations were higher than or comparable to the genetic variation of the population in the nature reserve. In addition, our parentage and paternity analyses indicated widespread and potential long‐distance pollen flow within one Feng Shui woodland, indicating the presence of an unbroken pollination network, which would at least partially alleviate the genetic erosion due to habitat fragmentation and the unequal gene contributions of E. fordii parents to their progenies when favorable recruitment habitats are absent under most of the parent trees. Overall, our results suggest that E. fordii in Feng Shui woodlands may not be driven to extinction in the near future. Nevertheless, uncontrolled fast urban development with a lack of awareness of Feng Shui woodlands will cause the local extinction of E. fordii, which has already happened in some Feng Shui woodlands.
How do trees respond to species mixing in experimental compared to observational studies?
Authors: Kambach Stephan , Allan Eric , Bilodeau‐Gauthier Simon , Coomes David A. , Haase Josephine , Jucker Tommaso , Kunstler Georges , Müller Sandra , Nock Charles , Paquette Alain , van der Plas Fons , Ratcliffe Sophia , Roger Fabian , Ruiz‐Benito Paloma , Scherer‐Lorenzen Michael , Auge Harald , Bouriaud Olivier , Castagneyrol Bastien , Dahlgren Jonas , Gamfeldt Lars , Jactel Hervé , Kändler Gerald , Koricheva Julia , Lehtonen Aleksi , Muys Bart , Ponette Quentin , Setiawan Nuri , Van de Peer Thomas , Verheyen Kris , Zavala Miguel A. , Bruelheide Helge
Published: September 2019

For decades, ecologists have investigated the effects of tree species diversity on tree productivity at different scales and with different approaches ranging from observational to experimental study designs. Using data from five European national forest inventories (16,773 plots), six tree species diversity experiments (584 plots), and six networks of comparative plots (169 plots), we tested whether tree species growth responses to species mixing are consistent and therefore transferrable between those different research approaches. Our results confirm the general positive effect of tree species mixing on species growth (16% on average) but we found no consistency in species‐specific responses to mixing between any of the three approaches, even after restricting comparisons to only those plots that shared similar mixtures compositions and forest types. These findings highlight the necessity to consider results from different research approaches when selecting species mixtures that should maximize positive forest biodiversity and functioning relationships.
Population genetic structures of two ecologically distinct species Betula platyphylla and B. ermanii inferred based on nuclear and chloroplast DNA markers
Authors: Wang Hua‐Ying , Yin Xiao , Yin Dong‐Xu , Li Lin , Xiao Hong‐Xing
Published: September 2019

Climatic oscillations during the last glacial maximum (LGM) significantly affected the distribution patterns and genetic structure of extant plants. Northeast China (NEC) is a major biodiversity center in East Asia, and the influence of historical climate change on NEC populations is critical for understanding species responses to future climate change. However, only a few phylogeographic studies of cool temperate deciduous tree species have been conducted in the area, and results are inconsistent for species with different niches or distribution areas. We employed multiple chloroplast and nuclear markers to investigate the genetic structure of two ecologically contrasting species, Betula platyphylla and B. ermanii, in NEC. Rare haplotypes were identified in the chloroplast genome of these species, and both exhibited high levels of nucleotide diversity based on a fragment of the nuclear gene G3PDH and microsatellites. Moreover, significant phylogeographic structure was detected for B. platyphylla, suggesting that these populations had recolonized from independent glacial refuges, whereas no genetic structure was found for B. ermanii.

OPEN RESEARCH BADGES

The nSSR datasets used in the current study and the table of pairwise FST (below diagonal) and its standardized F'ST (above diagonal) among 25 populations based on seven SSRs are available from the Dryad (DOI: https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.230d176). Sequences generated from this study were deposited in GenBank under Accession nos. KY199568–KY200162 and MK819541–MK819970.
Species energy and Thermal Performance Theory predict 20‐yr changes in ant community abundance and richness
Authors: Kaspari Michael , Bujan Jelena , Roeder Karl A. , de Beurs Kirsten , Weiser Michael D.
Published: September 2019

In an era of rapid climate change, and with it concern over insect declines, we used two theories to predict 20‐yr changes in 34 North American ant communities. The ecosystems, from deserts to hardwood forests, were first surveyed in the 1990s. When resurveyed in 2016–2017, they averaged 1°C warmer with 200 g C·m−2·yr−1 higher plant productivity. Ant colony abundance changed from −49% to +61%. Consistent with Thermal Performance Theory, colony abundance increased with temperature increases < 1°C, then decreased as a site's mean monthly temperature change increased up to +2.4°C. Consistent with Species Energy Theory, (1) ant abundance tracked changes in a measure of energy availability (net aboveground productivity, g C·m−2·yr−1) and (2) increases in colony abundance drove increases in local plot‐ and transect‐level species richness but not that of Chao 2, an estimate of the size of the species pool. Even after accounting for these drivers, local species richness was still higher ~20 yr after the original surveys, likely due to the increased activity of ant workers. These results suggest community changes are predictable using theory from geographical ecology, and that warming can first enhance but may ultimately decrease the abundance of this important insect taxon.
An Electrochemiluminesence Chiral Sensor for Propranolol Enantiomers Based on Functionalized Graphite‐like Carbon Nitride Nanosheets
Authors: Zhu Shu , Ran Peiyao , Wu Jingling , Chen Min , Fu Yingzi
Published: September 2019

Graphite‐like carbon nitride nanosheets (g‐C3N4) have been attracted considerable attention for their applications in catalysis and electrochemiluminesence (ECL) sensor. In this paper, a facile solvothermal method was employed to prepare the functionalized nanocomposites with metal salts cadmium carbonate (CdCO3) and g‐C3N4 hybrids (g‐C3N4‐CdCO3). The prepared materials were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X‐ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX) and Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR). The nanocomposites was used not only as a new type luminophore but also as a chiral selector in this simple and sensitive ECL chiral sensor system for the recognition and detection of propranolol (Pro) enantiomers via quenching effect. The obvious difference of ECL signal of S‐Pro and R‐Pro was obtained. Thus, the sensor had the ability to distinguish Pro enantiomers. The mechanism of recognition was discussed by the theoretical calculation of binding constant and the water contact angle experiments. The sensor for Pro enantiomers was developed at wide concentration range from 0.001 to 1 mmol⋅L−1. The sensor with excellent sensitivity, stability and reproducibility provide a new strategy based on ECL for chiral recognition and the ECL chiral sensor.
Assessment of agricultural biomass residues to replace fossil fuel and hydroelectric power energy: A spatial approach
Authors: Romero Cristhy Willy da Silva , Berni Mauro Donizeti , Figueiredo Gleyce Kelly Dantas Araujo , Franco Telma Teixeira , Lamparelli Rubens Augusto Camargo
Published: September 2019

Despite the recent discoveries of considerable fossil fuel reserves, Brazil is one of the only great economic and industrial powers with very high amounts of renewable energy in its electricity matrix. Approximately 79.3% of the electric energy supply comes from renewable resources, of which hydroelectric power represents 70.6%. The two primary concerns regarding hydroelectricity are the damage caused to the environment by the construction of dams and the uncertainty of the supply in cases of long drought seasons. This article presents an analysis on the availability and energy exploitation of sugarcane straw and forest residues derived from eucalyptus for decentralized generation using a Geographic Information System–based model. The potential bioelectricity and bioethanol production from sugarcane and eucalyptus biomass in the Administrative Region of Campinas (ARC) is higher than the demand in this region. The results provide guidelines for designing alternatives to the intended Nationally Determined Contributions in Brazil within the scope of the ARC, and they can be used to provide energy empowerment, electric matrix diversification, and new policies that address the residue availability and demand.
Xylo‐oligosaccharides as texture modifier compounds in aqueous media and in combination with food thickeners
Authors: Penksza Péter , Juhász Réka , Szabó‐Nótin Beatrix , Sipos László
Published: September 2019

Present study introduces the previously not‐described rheological properties of a nondigestible oligosaccharide: xylo‐oligosaccharide which is a novel food ingredient in Europe. Significant differences were observed among viscosity of solutions of different formulas (liquid or powder) of XOS. Thickening potential of XOS in aqueous media compared to that of sucrose (Suc) or fructo‐oligosaccharides strongly depends on utilization level: At low concentration, XOS proved to be weaker while at high concentration to be stronger than fructo‐oligosaccharides. Differences in viscosity of XOS, FOS, and sucrose were much higher at below 60°C than at higher temperatures. Storage and loss modulii of xanthan gum gels were not influenced while those of locust bean gum were affected negatively by XOS addition. Addition of XOS at low concentrations did not decrease gelatin gel strength but increased gelatin gel stability against mechanical stress. XOS proved to have different rheological behavior from previously used oligosaccharides.
Analysis of the impact of determinants of kosherness on the content of macro‐ and microelements in beef
Authors: Rudy Mariusz , Żurek Jagoda , Stanisławczyk Renata , Gil Marian , Duma‐Kocan Paulina , Zaguła Grzegorz , Rudy Stanisław
Published: September 2019

There are no studies in the literature that comprehensively present the impact of factors related only to kosher slaughter on the content of minerals in beef. Therefore, learning the impact of such kosher determinants of beef as follows: no stunning during slaughter, cattle category, muscle, or the so‐called kosher treatment for mineral content in beef has an original character. In this connection, the aim of the research was a comprehensive analysis of the impact of kosher determinants (slaughter type, muscle, cattle category, and technological treatment) on the content of selected macro‐ and microelements in beef. On the content of minerals in muscles obtained from beef carcasses, the statistically significant (p < .05) impact was found in the case of slaughter type for such elements as: K, P, and Na. Higher content of phosphorus, potassium, and sodium was found in muscles of heifers and bulls from standard slaughter, compared with the amount of these elements determined in muscles of cattle from kosher slaughter. In turn, statistically significant (p < .05) impact of cattle sex was confirmed only in the case of iron and molybdenum content in beef. Higher amounts of these elements were determined in muscle from heifer carcasses (excluding the molybdenum content in MLT muscle of heifer carcasses from kosher slaughter). The process of koshering (soaking in brine) causes approximately 10‐fold increase in the amount of sodium in beef, regardless of the muscle or gender of cattle. The statistically significant impact of muscle was confirmed only in the case of zinc content. In the authors’ own research, there was found no statistically significant impact of the interaction effects between the analyzed factors (S × G, S × M, G × M, and S × G × M) on the content of particular mineral components.
Programs trades and trade regulation: An evidence of the Korean securities market
Authors: Eom Cheoljun , Jordan Steven J. , Lee Woo‐Baik , Park Jong Won
Published: September 2019

This study addresses the effects of program trade regulation during large market moves. To address this issue, we analyze the effect of sidecars (halts that only affect program trades) on trade imbalance using Korean intraday data. We find that sidecars, as currently designed to halt all program trades, are not effective at controlling trade imbalance around volatile markets. Resolution of trade imbalance is more effective when program trade is unrestricted. Program trade, at least a subset, provides liquidity when it is at a premium. We conclude that current sidecars should be more carefully crafted as some program trades are market stabilizing.
Application of R/S analysis in fracture identification of shale reservoir of the Lower Cambrian Niutitang Formation in northern Guizhou Province, South China
Authors: Li Ang , Ding Wenlong , Luo Kaiping , Xiao ZiKang , Wang Ruyue , Yin Shuai , Deng Mo , He Jianhua
Published: September 2019

Natural fractures not only improve the physical properties of shale reservoirs but also promote the formation of hydraulic fracturing networks. The accurate identification of natural fractures in shale reservoirs is of a great significance to the exploration and development of shale gas. In this paper, the Lower Cambrian Niutitang Formation in Cen'gong block of northern Guizhou Province is taken as the research horizon. A variety of conventional logging parameters are selected to identify the natural fractures in the Niutitang Formation of three shale gas wells in the study area by combining R/S analysis method. Fracture locations can be accurately determined by calculating the second derivatives of lg(R/S) function. Considering the sensitivity of logging parameters to natural fractures, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is used to assign the corresponding weight to each logging parameter. A new parameter, fracture development coefficient, is introduced to quantitatively characterize the development degree of natural fractures. The results of R/S analysis are compared with those of core fracture observation and statistics. The results show that R/S analysis has a good effect on shale fracture identification, and the effect of fracture identification of three wells presents the following order: TM‐1 > TX‐1 > CY‐1. There is a positive correlation between fracture development coefficient and fracture linear density, indicating that the larger the fracture development coefficient is, the more developed the shale fractures are. Therefore, the fracture development coefficient can be used to characterize the degree of fracture development. In addition, we also analyze the errors of the identification results of R/S analysis and compare this method with conventional logging method. R/S analysis based on conventional logging is an accurate and efficient fracture identification method, which provides a new idea for the study and quantitative characterization of the natural fractures in shale reservoirs.
Effect of nonlinear thermal radiation on silver and copper water nanofluid flow due to a rotating disk with variable thickness in the presence of nonuniform heat source/sink using the homotopy analysis method
Authors: Sravanthi C. S.
Published: September 2019

An analysis of a steady axisymmetric heat transfer nanofluid flow due to a rotating disk having variable thickness in the presence of nonlinear radiation and nonuniform heat source/sink is presented. Water with Copper (Cu) and Silver (Ag) nanoparticles are utilized in the investigation. The governing equations along with boundary conditions are solved using the homotopy analysis method. A parametric study of the physical parameters is done and results are displayed in the form of graphs. The findings indicate that nonlinear radiation has a significant effect on temperature as well as on wall heat transfer when compared with linear case, which is more useful in few engineering processes.
Postpartum psychoactive substance abuse after severe maternal morbidity
Authors: Pereira Cynara M. , Pacagnella Rodolfo C. , Parpinelli Mary A. , Andreucci Carla B. , Zanardi Dulce M. , Souza Renato T. , Angelini Carina R. , Silveira Carla , Cecatti José G.
Published: September 2019

Objective

To evaluate drug use among mothers during the postpartum period after a severe pregnancy‐related complication.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of maternal morbidity including maternal near‐miss and control groups conducted in a tertiary hospital in Campinas, Brazil, between July 2008 and June 2012. The Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) was used to assess drug use during lifetime, pregnancy, and in the previous 3 months.

Results

Of 638 women evaluated, drug use was reported by 165 (25.8%). Alcohol was the most common substance used (n=133, 20.6%), followed by tobacco (n=85, 13.2%), and cocaine (n=15, 2.3%). The highest risk for postpartum drug use was among those using drugs during pregnancy. There were no differences between the morbidity and control groups, but there was a significant difference in the need for intervention to reduce alcohol consumption in the severe maternal morbidity group. Risk for substance abuse intervention increased three‐fold in women with PTSD criteria, and all aspects of quality of life were worse among drug users.

Conclusion

Drug use during pregnancy and maternal complications are linked to postpartum drug abuse. These women should be managed during pregnancy; postpartum follow‐up requires updated guidance and must go beyond family planning.
Screening of significant biomarkers related with prognosis of liver cancer by lncRNA‐associated ceRNAs analysis
Authors: He Jiefeng , Zhao Haichao , Deng Dongfeng , Wang Yadong , Zhang Xiao , Zhao Haoliang , Xu Zongquan
Published: September 2019

This study aimed to identify significant biomarkers related to the prognosis of liver cancer using long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)‐associated competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) analysis. Differentially expressed mRNA and lncRNAs between liver cancer and paracancerous tissues were screened, and the functions of these mRNAs were predicted by gene ontology and pathway enrichment analyses. A ceRNA network consisting of differentially expressed mRNAs and lncRNAs was constructed. LncRNAFENDRRand lncRNAHAND2‐AS1were hub nodes in the ceRNA network. A risk score assessment model consisting of eight genes (PDE2A, ESR1, FBLN5, ALDH8A1, AKR1D1, EHHADH, ADRA1A, andGNE) associated with prognosis were developed. Multivariate Cox regression suggested that both pathologic_T and risk group could be regarded as independent prognostic factors. Furthermore, a nomogram model consisting of pathologic_T and risk group showed a good prediction ability for predicting the survival rate of liver cancer patients. The nomogram model consisting of pathologic_T and a risk score assessment model could be regarded as an independent factor for predicting prognosis of liver cancer.
Microvesicles promote megakaryopoiesis by regulating DNA methyltransferase and methylation of Notch1 promoter
Authors: Chattapadhyaya Saran , Haldar Srijan , Banerjee Subrata
Published: September 2019

Megakaryopoiesis is the process of formation of mature megakaryocytes that takes place in the bone marrow niche resulting in the release of platelets into the peripheral blood. It has been suggested that cell to cell communication in this dense bone marrow niche may influence the fate of the cells. Numerous studies point to the role of exosomes and microvesicles not only as a messenger of the cellular crosstalk but also in growth and developmental process of various cell types. In the current study, we explored the effects of megakaryocyte‐derived microvesicles in hematopoietic cell lines in the context of differentiation. Our study demonstrated that microvesicles isolated from the induced megakaryocytic cell lines have the ability to stimulate noninduced cells specifically into that particular lineage. We showed that this lineage commencement comes from the change in the methylation status of Notch1 promoter, which is regulated by DNA methyltransferases.
Ontogeny of Phase I Metabolism of Drugs
Authors: Allegaert Karel , van den Anker John
Published: September 2019

Capturing ontogeny of enzymes involved in phase I metabolism is crucial to improve prediction of dose‐concentration and concentration‐effect relationships throughout infancy and childhood. Once captured, these patterns can be integrated in semiphysiologically or physiology‐based pharmacokinetic models to support predictions in specific pediatric settings or to support pediatric drug development. Although these translational efforts are crucial, isoenzyme‐specific ontogeny‐based models should also incorporate data on variability of maturational and nonmaturational covariates (eg, disease, treatment modalities, pharmacogenetics). Therefore, this review provides a summary of the ontogeny of phase I drug‐metabolizing enzymes, indicating current knowledge gaps and recent progresses. Furthermore, we tried to illustrate that straightforward translation of isoenzyme‐specific ontogeny to predictions does not allow full exploration of scenarios of potential variability related to maturational (non–age‐related variability, other isoenzymes or transporters) or nonmaturational (disease, pharmacogenetics) covariates, and necessitates integration in a “systems” concept.
Pediatric Renal Ontogeny and Applications in Drug Development
Authors: Zhang Yifei , Mehta Neha , Muhari‐Stark Edit , Burckart Gilbert J. , van den Anker John , Wang Jian
Published: September 2019

The clinical applications of renal ontogeny mainly include renal function evaluation and optimal dosing of renally eliminated drugs in pediatric patients, which rely on pharmacometric models and/or bedside estimated glomerular filtration rate equations. However, these applications in drug development are based on an understanding of renal function development, especially when considering premature infants, and the renal biomarkers that can be used for renal function assessment. This review provides a general overview on (1) renal function development, (2) the biomarkers that are used to assess renal function, and (3) the practical application of this knowledge to drug dosing for renally eliminated drugs during pediatric development. While pharmacometric approaches for estimating renal function during development have improved considerably, the number of drug development programs that have studied premature infants is small and suggests that caution should be taken in estimating doses for renally eliminated drugs during periods of rapid change in renal function.
Characterization of the Ontogeny of Hepatic UDP‐Glucuronosyltransferase Enzymes Based on Glucuronidation Activity Measured in Human Liver Microsomes
Authors: Badée Justine , Qiu Nahong , Collier Abby C. , Takahashi Ryan H. , Forrest William F. , Parrott Neil , Schmidt Stephan , Fowler Stephen
Published: September 2019

An understanding of the postnatal development of hepatic UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) enzymes is required for accurate prediction of the age‐dependent changes in pharmacokinetics of many drugs used in children. However, the maturation rate of hepatic UGT isoforms remains a major knowledge gap. This study aimed to establish the age‐associated changes in glucuronidation activity of 10 major hepatic UGT isoforms in humans, namely, UGT1A1, UGT1A3, UGT1A4, UGT1A6, UGT1A9, UGT2B4, UGT2B7, UGT2B10, UGT2B15, and UGT2B17. Human liver microsomes from pediatric and adult donors were incubated under optimized incubation conditions to assess the activity rates of hepatic UGT isoforms using a panel of 19 in vitro UGT probe substrates and clinically used drugs. Statistically strong correlations of glucuronidation activities allowed the ontogeny of UGT1A1, UGT1A4, UGT2B7, UGT2B10, and UGT2B15 to be established using multiple selective UGT substrates and matched human liver microsome samples. The postnatal development of hepatic UGTs is isoform‐dependent using either individual or cross‐correlated selective isoform substrates. Maximal adult activity was reached at different times ranging from within a month (UGT1A1, UGT2B4, UGT2B7, UGT2B10, and UGT2B15), during infancy (UGT1A3, UGT1A4, and UGT1A9), to adolescence (UGT1A6 and UGT2B17). This study provides an extensive characterization of the postnatal ontogeny profiles of hepatic UGT enzymes that are instrumental for predicting drug disposition via in vitro–in vivo extrapolation algorithms and verifying pharmacokinetic predictions against in vivo observations via pediatric physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling in pediatric patients.
Predictive Pediatric Modeling and Simulation Using Ontogeny Information
Authors: Ince Ibrahim , Solodenko Juri , Frechen Sebastian , Dallmann André , Niederalt Christoph , Schlender Jan , Burghaus Rolf , Lippert Jörg , Willmann Stefan
Published: September 2019

Food and Drug Administration submissions of physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling and simulation of small‐molecule drugs document the relevance of pediatric drug development and, in particular, information on dosing strategies in children. The most relevant prerequisite for reliable PBPK‐based translation of adult pharmacokinetics of a small molecule to children is knowledge of the drug‐specific absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME) processes in adults together with existing information about ontogeny of ADME processes relevant for the drug. All mechanisms driving a drug's clearance are of specific importance. For other drug modalities, our knowledge of ADME processes and ontogeny is still limited. More research is required, for example, to understand why some therapeutic proteins show complex differences in pharmacokinetics between adults and children, whereas other proteins seem to follow simple allometric scaling rules. Ontogeny information originates from various sources, such as (semi)quantitative mRNA expression, in vitro activity data, and deconvolution of in vivo pharmacokinetic data. The workflow for pediatric predictions is well described in several articles documenting successful translation from adults to children. The technical hurdles for PBPK modeling are low. State‐of‐the‐art PBPK modeling software tools provide integrated pediatric translation workflows. For example, PK‐Sim and MoBi are freely available as fully transparent open‐source software via Open Systems Pharmacology (OSP). With the latest 2019 software release, version 8.0, OSP even provides a fully integrated technical framework for the qualification (and requalification) of any specific intended PBPK use in line with Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency PBPK guidance. Qualification packages for pediatric translation are available on the OSP platform.
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome complicated with subdural hematoma: A rare case and literature review
Authors: Endo Takeshi , Yamamoto Norio , Inoue Shinichiro , Yoshikane Tsutomu , Fujisawa Naoki , Imada Toshihiro , Hattori Shuzo
Published: September 2019

A 79‐year‐old woman presented with fever and general malaise. Examination revealed hepatic injury, thrombocytopenia, skin lesions, and regional lymphadenopathy; severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) was diagnosed using polymerase chain reaction. The patient developed impaired consciousness that worsened after 4 days. Magnetic resonance imaging of the head revealed a subdural hematoma in the occipital region with an uncertain onset time. As SFTS rarely causes intracranial hemorrhage, the associated risk factors are unknown. Clinicians may overlook potential intracranial hemorrhage in stuporous SFTS patients.
Enteric tube placement in patients with esophageal varices: Risks and predictors of postinsertion gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Al‐Obaid Lolwa N , Bazarbashi Ahmad Najdat , Cohen Margot E. , Kim Judith , Lei Yuxiu , Axelrad Jordan E. , Fox Alyson , Chandra Subani , Gordon Fredric D.
Published: September 2019

Background and Aim

Enteric tube (ET) placement is approached with caution in patients with esophageal varices (EV) due to concern of causing variceal bleeding. Data are limited on rates and predictors of gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) in these patients. This study aims to assess the rate and predictors of bleeding from EV after ET placement.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review on patients requiring ET access with known EV. Inclusion criteria were age >18 with endoscopically proven EV who required ET placement. Patients who were admitted with, or developed a GIB prior to placement of ET were excluded, as were patients admitted for liver transplantation. Primary outcome was incidence of GIB within 48 h of tube placement. Secondary outcome was a >2 g/dL drop in hemoglobin within 48 h of placement without evidence of bleed. Statistical analysis was performed using Fischer's exact test, Mann–Whitney U test, and univariate logistic regression model.

Results

A total of 75 patients were included in the analysis. The most common etiology of cirrhosis was alcohol (44%). The most common location of EV was in the lower third of the esophagus (61%). The primary outcome was observed in 11 (14.6%) patients. The secondary outcome was found in eight (10.6%) patients. On univariate analysis, GIB was associated with higher MELD‐Na (P = 0.026) and EV located in the lower third of the esophagus (P = 0.048).

Conclusion

ET placement in patients with EV is associated with low risk of bleeding. Elevated MELD‐Na and lower EV location conferred a higher risk of bleeding after ET placement.
Exclusive enteral nutrition: An optimal care pathway for use in adult patients with active Crohn's disease
Authors: Day Alice , Wood Jessica , Melton Sarah , Bryant Robert V
Published: September 2019

Background and Aim

Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is progressively being used as a therapeutic option for adults with Crohn's Disease (CD); however, there is no standardized approach to delivering this therapy. The aim of this study is to develop an optimal care pathway for using EEN in adults with CD. This will create a standard of care that can be used as a benchmark practice and will provide direction for future research.

Methods

A working group of 12 multidisciplinary inflammatory bowel disease specialists across Australia and New Zealand was convened to develop a practical, clinically focused care pathway for using EEN in adults with active CD. Six key areas were identified as part of the care pathway: clinical indications, nutrition assessment, EEN protocol, monitoring, accessing formula, and food reintroduction. Current literature was identified via systematic review, and quality of evidence was graded. Consensus expert opinion was used where literature gaps were identified.

Results

An optimal care pathway for using EEN in adults with CD was developed with six key consensus statements on how to use EEN in adults with active CD. These key statements identify clinical indications for use, nutrition assessment, enteral prescription and duration of therapy, monitoring criteria, food reintroduction, and the role of partial EEN. An accompanying patient resource was also developed.

Conclusion

EEN is recommended as a treatment option to induce remission in adults with active CD. The consensus statements developed are practical and are based on best available evidence and expert opinion to assist in developing a standardized approach to delivering EEN therapy.
Early neurodevelopmental characterization in children with cobalamin C/defect
Authors: Ricci Daniela , Martinelli Diego , Ferrantini Gloria , Lucibello Simona , Gambardella MLuigia , Olivieri Giorgia , Chieffo Daniela , Battaglia Domenica , Diodato Daria , Iarossi Giancarlo , Donati Alice M. , Dionisi‐Vici Carlo , Battini Roberta , Mercuri Eugenio M.
Published: September 2019

Cobalamin C (cblC) defect is the most common inherited disorder of cobalamin metabolism. Developmental delay, behavioral problems, and maculopathy are common, but they have not been systematically investigated. The aim of this study was to define early neurodevelopment in cblC patients and the possible contribution of different factors, such as mode of diagnosis, age at diagnosis, presence of brain lesions and epilepsy. Children up to the age of 4 years with a visual acuity ≥1/10 were evaluated using the Griffiths' Mental Development Scales. Eighteen children were enrolled (age range 12‐48 months). Four were diagnosed by newborn screening (NBS); in the others mean age at diagnosis was 3.5 months (range 0.3‐18 months). Eight had seizures: three in the first year, and five after the second year of life. Fourteen had brain lesions on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Neurovisual assessment evidenced low visual acuity (<3/10) in 4/18. NBS diagnosed patients had higher general and subquotients neurodevelopmental scores, normal brain MRI, and no epilepsy. The others showed a progressive reduction of the developmental quotient with age and language impairment, which was evident after 24 months of age. Our findings showed a progressive neurodevelopmental deterioration and a specific fall in language development after 24 months in cblC defect. The presence of brain lesions and epilepsy was associated with a worst neurodevelopmental outcome. NBS, avoiding major disease‐related events and allowing an earlier treatment initiation, appeared to have a protective effect on the development of brain lesions and to promote a more favorable neurodevelopment.
Cofilin, an intracellular marker for HIV‐associated CD4 T‐cell motility dysregulation, shed light on the mechanisms of incomplete immune reconstitution in the patients with HIV
Authors: Syed Fahim , Yu Qigui
Published: September 2019

Highlights

People living with HIV do not achieve an optional immune reconstitution despite the sustained virologic suppression.

Circulating CD4 T cells fail to replenish their lymphoid tissue counterparts in people living with HIV.

Irrespective of ART, coffin hyperactivation and impaired T cell mobility persist in people living with HIV.

Cofilin may represent a novel therapeutic target to restore T cell mobility in people living with HIV.
Why are vaccines against many human viral diseases still unavailable; an historic perspective?
Authors: Tannock Gregory A. , Kim Hyunsuh , Xue Lumin
Published: September 2019

The number of new and improved human viral vaccines licensed in recent years contrasts sharply with what could be termed the golden era (1955‐1990) when vaccines against polio‐, measles, mumps, rubella, and hepatitis B viruses first became available. Here, we attempt to explain why vaccines, mainly against viruses other than human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis C virus, are still unavailable. They include human herpesviruses other than varicella‐zoster virus, respiratory syncytial and most other respiratory, enteric and arthropod‐borne viruses. Improved oral poliovirus vaccines are also urgently required. Their unavailability is attributable to regulatory/economic factors and the properties of individual viruses, but also to an absence of relevant animal models and ethical problems for the conduct of clinical of trials in pediatric and other critical populations. All are portents of likely difficulties for the licensing of effective vaccines against emerging pathogens, such as avian influenza, Ebola, and Zika viruses.
Using periodontal staging and grading system as a prognostic factor for future tooth loss: A long‐term retrospective study
Authors: Ravidà Andrea , Qazi Musa , Troiano Giuseppe , Saleh Muhammad H. A. , Greenwell Henry , Kornman Kenneth , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: September 2019

Background

A new classification of periodontal diseases aimed to identify periodontal disease based on a multidimensional staging and grading system has been recently proposed. However, up to date, its prognostic predictive capability has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to assess if parameters included in the new classification were predictive of tooth loss after a long‐term follow‐up (>10 years) in patients with periodontitis.

Methods

Patients presented with periodontitis at the University of Michigan between January 1966 and January 2004 were screened and categorized according to the new classification of periodontitis. Number/Reasons of teeth loss in patients who underwent at least one session/year of maintenance during the entire follow‐up period were extracted and used to analyze the prognostic capabilities of variables (staging, grading, and Extent) included in the new classification.

Results

A total number of 292 patients with a mean follow‐up of 289.7 ± 79.6 months were included. 31 (10.6%) patients were classified as Stage 1, 85 (29.1%) as Stage 2, 146 (50%) as Stage 3, and 30 (10.3%) as Stage 4. For grading, 34 (11.7%) were classified as Grade A, 193 (66.1%) as Grade B, and 65 (22.2%) as Grade C. Results of multilevel Cox regression analyses revealed a statistically significant association between stage (HR:3.73 between Stage 4 and Stage 1) and grade (HR: 4.83 between Grade C and Grade A) at baseline and periodontal related tooth loss, whereas no differences were detected for the extent of periodontitis.

Conclusion

This study provides the initial evidence regarding the predictive ability of the new classification of periodontitis. Patients in either Stage 4 or Grade C showed a significantly higher periodontal‐related tooth loss.
Helical Blood Flow in Hemodynamically Significant Carotid Stenosis
Authors: Kirsanov Roman Ivanovich , Kulikov Vladimir Pavlovich
Published: September 2019

Objectives

To define helical blood flow (HBF) characteristics in hemodynamically significant atherosclerotic stenosis of the internal carotid artery (ICA) by means of duplex scanning.

Methods

Twenty‐five hemodynamically significant (65.0% [range, 63.0%–69.0%]) carotid stenoses were examined in 23 patients. The severity of the stenosis was calculated by the European Carotid Surgery Trial grading method by transverse section scanning in the B‐mode. Rotational components were estimated in color flow mapping by transverse‐section scanning of a vessel at the most narrowed site, as well as in the prestenotic and poststenotic segments. A quantitative evaluation of HBF was performed on the basis of pulsed wave Doppler imaging of longitudinal and transverse sections of the arterial lumen.

Results

Helical blood flow was most often (68%) registered in the poststenotic segment of the ICA as a single vortex (52%) or double vortices (16%). At the most narrowed site, HBF was registered in 48% of the cases (44% single vortex and 4% double vortices), whereas in the prestenotic segment of the blood vessel, it was registered in only 16% of the cases (8% single vortex and 8% double vortices). The time‐averaged maximum blood flow velocities at the most narrowed site were 88.5 cm/s (25th–75th percentiles, 73.8‐127.8 cm/s) for the axial component and 33.1 cm/s (22.7–40.9 cm/s) for the rotational component. The calculated summary velocity of motion of the blood particles in helical paths was 92.2 cm/s (75.7–144.2 cm/s).

Conclusions

It has been shown that HBF can be registered by Doppler ultrasound in atherosclerotic stenosis, and its registration rate increases while passing through the narrowed segment of the ICA.
Trust trigger and knowledge elicitor: The role of epistemic objects in coordinating the fragmentation and heterogeneity of knowledge in digital innovation networks
Authors: Liu Jiayuan
Published: September 2019

The paper aims to explore how epistemic objects—defined as objects of investigation that are simultaneously underdefined, unfolding objects in collaboration—orchestrate knowledge for coordinating the knowledge fragmentation and heterogeneity in digital innovation networks. By using a mixed‐methods research approach, the paper begins with a qualitative case study to explain the relationships and follows up with quantitative surveys to test the hypotheses. As a result, this study finds that by acting as a trust trigger and a knowledge elicitor, epistemic objects facilitate the sharing, acquisition, and integration of knowledge, thereby coordinating the knowledge fragmentation and heterogeneity among collaborative digital ventures in their innovation networks. Hence, the study makes three contributions: (a) a focus on both affective and cognitive trust triggered by epistemic objects provides a novel source of motivation for collaborative knowledge and innovation activities, (b) the recognition of epistemic objects as a knowledge elicitor provides a new insight into identification and coordination of knowledge heterogeneity within innovation networks, and (c) it highlights the independent role of epistemic objects that presents an alternative to human control with instrumental artifacts on collaborative knowledge and innovation work.
Antecedents of knowledge hiding in a buyer–supplier relationship
Authors: Butt Atif Saleem
Published: September 2019

Knowledge management has been the subject of much research in buyer–supplier relationship literature. Many of these studies outline the benefits attributed to buying and supplying firms as a result of knowledge sharing between its managers. However, it is important to note that managers across firms can also deliberately hide knowledge from each other during their business interaction. This study fills this important gap in the buyer–supplier relationship literature. On the basis of 16 semistructured dyadic interviews with managers of buying and supplying firms, results reveal that managers across firms intentionally hide knowledge from each other when there is a lack of personal relationship between them. Other determinants include need to reciprocate, restrictions from senior management, fear of evaluation, and the expectation of outcomes. The paper concludes by articulating its contribution to the theory and practice, alongside limitations and future research directions.
Parametric nonlinear resonant Robin problems
Authors: Papageorgiou Nikolaos S. , Rădulescu Vicenţiu D. , Repovš Dušan D.
Published: September 2019

We consider a nonlinear Robin problem driven by the p‐Laplacian. In the reaction we have the competing effects of two nonlinearities. One term is parametric, strictly ‐sublinear and the other one is ‐linear and resonant at any nonprincipal variational eigenvalue. Using variational tools from the critical theory (critical groups), we show that for all big values of the parameter λ the problem has at least five nontrivial smooth solutions.
The effect of management changes on winning in professional sports: Analysis using a dynamic lag adjustment model
Authors: Goff Brian , Wilson Dennis , Zimmer David
Published: September 2019

This paper examines whether coaching and general manager (GM) changes among three professional sports leagues—the National Football League (NFL), the Major League Baseball (MLB), and the National Basketball Association (NBA)—effect on‐field performance. Our empirical methodology uses team‐level data by season and adapts a lag adjustment econometric approach designed to resolve several statistical challenges that arise both in general managerial settings and in sports settings. Our main finding is that coaching changes in the NFL boost the number of wins per season by between 0.5 and 1.2 in each of the first five seasons. Coaching changes have smaller, but still positive, impacts in the MLB and NBA. For all the three leagues, we find that GM changes have no discernable impact on performance. A separate cross‐sectional analysis suggests that those small impacts stem from coaches and GMs having extremely compressed talent distributions. The data indicate that coaches and GMs, en masse, are important, but changing the people who occupy those positions rarely seems to move teams to different locations on the performance distribution.
A novel application of artificial neural network for recognition of target behind the wall
Authors: Singh Akhilendra P. , Dwivedi Smrity , Jain Pradip K.
Published: September 2019

In this article, a methodology for recognition of an object behind a wall has been proposed. So far research is mainly focused on target detection and localization issue. Very limited work has been reported so far for complete identification (ie, shape and size) of the target. Therefore in this article, a novel Artificial Neural Network based technique is proposed for identification of the targets behind the wall with the through the wall imaging system. For this purpose, an active microwave imaging radar system operating at frequency 3.5‐5.5 GHz has been ingeniously designed. An extensive number of experiments were performed while keeping targets made of metal and wood in different shapes and sizes. For identification of the target, an artificial neural network based image reconstruction model has been proposed. From experimental results, it was found that once training of proposed neural network with sample teaching images has been done, it could automatically rectify distortions and reconstruct nearly actual shape and size of the target for test targets. The obtained results are quite satisfactory.
Toward whole‐cortex enhancement with an ultrahigh dielectric constant helmet at 3T
Authors: Sica Christopher T. , Rupprecht Sebastian , Hou Ryan J. , Lanagan Matthew T. , Gandji Navid P. , Lanagan Michael T. , Yang Qing X.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

To present a 3T brain imaging study using a conformal prototype helmet constructed with an ultra‐high dielectric constant (uHDC; εr ~ 1000) materials that can be inserted into standard receive head‐coils.

Methods

A helmet conformal to a standard human head constructed with uHDC materials was characterized through electromagnetic simulations and experimental work. The signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), transmit efficiency, and power deposition with the uHDC helmet inserted within a 20‐channel head coil were measured in vivo and compared with a 64‐channel head coil and the 20‐channel coil without the helmet. Seven healthy volunteers were analyzed.

Results

Simulation and in vivo experimental results showed that transmit efficiency was improved by nearly 3 times within localized regions for a quadrature excitation, with a measured global increase of 58.21 ± 6.54% over 7 volunteers. The use of a parallel transmit spokes pulse compensated for severe degradation of homogeneity, at the expense of higher global and local specific absorption rate levels. A SNR histogram analysis with statistical testing demonstrated that the uHDC helmet enhanced a 20‐channel head coil to the level of the 64‐channel head coil, with the improvements mainly within the cortical brain regions.

Conclusion

A prototype uHDC helmet enhanced the SNR of a standard head coil to the level of a high density 64‐channel coil, although transmit homogeneity was compromised. Further improvements in SNR may be achievable with optimization of this technology, and could be a low‐cost approach for future radiofrequency engineering work in the brain at 3T.