bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feeling Blue or Seeing Red? Similar Patterns of Emotion Associations With Colour Patches and Colour Terms
Authors: Jonauskaite Domicele , Parraga C. Alejandro , Quiblier Michael , Mohr Christine
Published: February 2020

For many, colours convey affective meaning. Popular opinion assumes that perception of colour is crucial to influence emotions. However, scientific studies test colour–emotion relationships by presenting colours as patches or terms. When using patches, researchers put great effort into colour presentation. When using terms, researchers have much less control over the colour participants think of. In this between-subjects study, we tested whether emotion associations with colour differ between terms and patches. Participants associated 20 emotion concepts, loading on valence, arousal, and power dimensions, with 12 colours presented as patches ( n = 54) or terms ( n = 78). We report high similarity in the pattern of associations of specific emotion concepts with terms and patches ( r = .82), for all colours except purple ( r = .−23). We also observed differences for black, which is associated with more negative emotions and of higher intensity when presented as a term than a patch. Terms and patches differed little in terms of valence, arousal, and power dimensions. Thus, results from studies on colour–emotion relationships using colour terms or patches should be largely comparable. It is possible that emotions are associated with colour concepts rather than particular perceptions or words of colour.
A model to guide patient selection when managing ureteric stones with shockwave lithotripsy
Authors: Hemmant Joshua , Young Graham , Pournaras Christos , Foster Emma , Chow Karyee
Published: February 2020

Introduction:

The aim of this study was to create a model based upon significant prognostic factors to guide patient selection for shockwave lithotripsy.

Patients and methods:

We identified 150 patients attending for shockwave lithotripsy for ureteric stones between October 2010–February 2016. Data was collected retrospectively from electronic case notes and radiological images. All patients were treated with an on-site Storz Modulith SLX-F2 lithotripter. A model was created using computer software ‘R’.

Results:

One hundred and thirty-three patients were treated and 66% of those were deemed radiologically stone-free with shockwave lithotripsy. Four factors were found to be independently statistically significant with regards to stone-free status; age ( p=0.003), Hounsfield units ( p=0.002), prior nephrostomy insertion ( p=0.022) or prior stent insertion ( p=0.002). Our resulting model is:[Formula: see text]

Discussion and conclusions:

Our shockwave lithotripsy success would likely increase with improved patient selection. Age appears to be a novel significant factor in stone passage. This is an interesting observation worthy of further study given ageing populations in the developed world. The model will require further validation in order to confirm our findings, however the results have proven very encouraging.

Level of evidence:

2c
MyHealthyGut: Findings from a pilot randomized controlled trial on adherence to a gluten-free diet and quality of life among adults with celiac disease or gluten intolerance
Authors: Dowd A Justine , Warbeck Cassandra B , Tang Karen TY , Fung Tak , Culos-Reed S Nicole
Published: February 2020

Aims

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a smartphone app (MyHealthyGut) in helping adults self-manage celiac disease or gluten intolerance and improve their gut health.

Methods

Adults diagnosed with celiac disease or gluten intolerance ( N = 115) were randomized into two groups: experimental group 1 (had access to the app for a one-month period) or wait list control (WLC). After one month, WLC participants were given one-month access to the app (experimental group 2). An online questionnaire was administered to assess (a) user satisfaction with the app and (b) changes in the following patient-reported outcomes: adherence to a gluten-free diet, quality of life (QoL), self-regulatory efficacy, and feelings of depression and anxiety. Generalized estimating equations were used to assess changes in the outcome variables over time between the groups.

Results

Participants reported high levels of app usability, were satisfied with features of the app, and felt that the app was best suited for people newly diagnosed with celiac disease. Participants in the experimental groups reported improvements in adherence, gastrointestinal symptoms (experimental group 1 only), QoL, self-regulatory efficacy (experimental group 2 only), anxiety (experimental group 1 only), and depression (experimental group 2 only). Experimental group 1 and the WLC group reported significantly worse adherence after using the app based on the Celiac Dietary Adherence Test, which was in contrast to the accidental and purposeful measures of gluten consumption and symptoms for experimental group 1 but consistent with reports of accidental and purposeful gluten consumption and symptoms for the WLC group.

Conclusions

Based on feedback from the participants, the app may be best suited for individuals newly diagnosed or struggling with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. After using the MyHealthyGut app for a one-month period, adults with celiac disease reported improvements in psychosocial outcomes. Further iterations of the app are needed to meet the needs of this population better. MyHealthyGut is the first evidence-based app designed to help people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Extra-articular Portion of the Sacroiliac Joint—Between the Sacral and Pelvic Tuberosities: An Anatomical Guide for the S2-Alar-Iliac Screw Trajectory
Authors: Tatara Yasunori , Niimura Takanori , Sekiya Tatsuhiro , Mihara Hisanori
Published: February 2020

Study Design:

A novel technique for S2-alar-iliac (S2AI) screw placement was analyzed.

Objectives:

Accurate confirmation of the S2AI screw trajectory with free-hand techniques is not simple, although some anatomical landmarks have been reported. To overcome the drawback, we aimed to introduce our technique for S2AI screw placement assisted with a guidewire using a new anatomical landmark.

Methods:

A total of 104 S2AI screws of 52 patients who underwent S2AI screw placement were investigated. Navigation software was used to simulate S2AI screw placement preoperatively. Screw placement was performed with the nonfluoroscopic free-hand technique. In this technique, a guidewire is inserted into the ilium from the extra-articular portion of the sacroiliac joint just lateral to the ideal screw entry point toward the tip of the greater trochanter and guides the screw trajectory. If the direction of the guidewire is satisfactory, all procedures of screw insertion are performed accordingly. The screw accuracy was assessed with computed tomography.

Results:

The modal size of the screw was 9.5 mm × 90 mm. The average horizontal angle was 42.0° (SD = 5.1°) on the right and 40.7° (SD = 4.7°) on the left. Of the 104 screws, 4 screws (3.9%) breached dorsally. No screw-related complication was observed.

Conclusions:

Because the guidewire can be inserted at an angle according to the individual morphology of the sacroiliac joint, it will be a reliable guide for the screw trajectory. This technique with a guidewire would help improve the accuracy of S2AI screw placement.
Moderating Role of Self-efficacy on Benign Envy—Employee Engagement Relationship
Authors: Jafri Md. Hassan
Published: February 2020

Perception of negative emotions including envy is on rise specifically in private organizations, which has important implications on employees’ attitudes and behaviors. This study examined the relationship between benign envy (one of the two forms of envy) and employee engagement. Furthermore, mechanisms underlying benign envy–outcome relationship are not well understood. To enhance this knowledge, this study investigated self-efficacy as a mechanism in understanding the relationship between benign envy and employee engagement. Relying on cross-sectional study design, data were gathered from 107 employees at two different point of times from private organizations of the service sector. Self-report measures comprising of all variables of the study were adopted. Data were analyzed and interpreted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences 21. Correlations and moderated regression analyses revealed that benign envy is not significantly related to employee engagement. However, the results revealed that the interaction term of benign envy and self-efficacy had significant influence on employee engagement, that is, the relationship between the two variables became significant under the condition of high self-efficacy. The implications and limitations of the study are discussed and the article concluded with an outline for possible future research.
Factors Associated With Hospital Decisions to Purchase Robotic Surgical Systems
Authors: Shen Chan , Gu Dian , Klein Roger , Zhou Shouhao , Shih Ya-Chen T. , Tracy Thomas , Soybel David , Dillon Peter
Published: February 2020

Background. Robotic surgical systems are expensive to own and operate, and the purchase of such technology is an important decision for hospital administrators. Most prior literature focuses on the comparison of clinical outcomes between robotic surgery and other laparoscopic or open surgery. There is a knowledge gap about what drives hospitals’ decisions to purchase robotic systems. Objective. To identify factors associated with a hospital’s acquisition of advanced surgical systems. Method. We used 2002 to 2011 data from the State of California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development to examine robotic surgical system purchase decisions of 476 hospitals. We used a probit estimation allowing heteroscedasticity in the error term including a set of two equations: one binary response equation and one heteroscedasticity equation. Results. During the study timeframe, there were 78 robotic surgical systems purchased by hospitals in the sample. Controlling for hospital characteristics such as number of available beds, teaching status, nonprofit status, and patient mix, the probit estimation showed that market-level directly relevant surgery volume in the previous year (excluding the hospital’s own volume) had the largest impact. More specifically, hospitals in high volume (>50,000 surgeries v. 0) markets were 12 percentage points more likely to purchase robotic systems. We also found that hospitals in less competitive markets (i.e., Herfindahl index above 2500) were 2 percentage points more likely to purchase robotic systems. Limitations. This study has limitations common to observational database studies. Certain characteristics such as cultural factors cannot be accurately quantified. Conclusions. Our findings imply that potential market demand is a strong driver for hospital purchase of robotic surgical systems. Market competition does not significantly increase the adoption of new expensive surgical technologies.
Integration of Latin American Complementary and Alternative Medicine Topics Into a Doctor of Pharmacy Curriculum and Survey of Student Attitudes and Behaviors
Authors: Boylan Paul M , Murzello Andrea , Parmar Jayesh , Chow Nicholas K
Published: February 2020

One in 3 adults report using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and as many as 7 in 10 Hispanic patients report CAM use. Pharmacists often encounter patients who use CAM products and therefore college of pharmacy curricular standards require both CAM and cultural competence training; however, there is little guidance for colleges on how to best deliver this material. In Fall 2017, Larkin University College of Pharmacy implemented a curricular change wherein first professional (P1) year pharmacy students selected, researched, and presented on a CAM product from Latin America. Pre-post surveys were administered to the students to measure their attitudes and behaviors toward CAM before and after completing their project. Survey results showed that student attitudes and behaviors toward CAM were largely unchanged; however, post-survey results showed that students agreed that they knew where to search for Latin American CAM information ( P < 0.05). Integration of Latin American CAM topics was successfully implemented in the P1 year of a Doctor of Pharmacy degree curriculum to foster cultural competence.
Parametric analysis of magnetic field-dependent viscosity and advection–diffusion between rotating discs
Authors: Shah Rehan Ali , Khan Aamir , Ali Amjad
Published: February 2020

The constitutive expressions of unsteady Newtonian fluid are employed in the mathematical formulation to model the flow between the circular space of porous and contracting discs. The flow behavior is investigated for magnetic field-dependent (MFD) viscosity and heat/mass transfers under the influence of a variable magnetic field. The equation for conservation of mass, modified Navier–Stokes, Maxwell, advection diffusion and transport equations are coupled as a system of ordinary differential equations. The expressions for torques and magnetohydrodynamic pressure gradient equation are derived. The MFD viscosity [Formula: see text], magnetic Reynolds number [Formula: see text], squeezing Reynolds number [Formula: see text], rotational Reynolds number [Formula: see text], magnetic field components [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], pressure [Formula: see text] and the torques [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] which the fluid exerts on discs are discussed through numerical results and graphical aids. It is concluded that magnetic Reynolds number causes an increase in magnetic field distributions and decrease in tangential velocity of flow field, also the fluid temperature is decreasing with increase in magnetic Reynolds number. The azimuthal and axial components of magnetic field have opposite behavior with increase in MFD viscosity.
Development of a global seismic risk model
Authors: Silva Vitor , Amo-Oduro Desmond , Calderon Alejandro , Costa Catarina , Dabbeek Jamal , Despotaki Venetia , Martins Luis , Pagani Marco , Rao Anirudh , Simionato Michele , Viganò Daniele , Yepes-Estrada Catalina , Acevedo Ana , Crowley Helen , Horspool Nick , Jaiswal Kishor , Journeay Murray , Pittore Massimiliano
Published: February 2020

Since 2015, the Global Earthquake Model (GEM) Foundation and its partners have been supporting regional programs and bilateral collaborations to develop an open global earthquake risk model. These efforts led to the development of a repository of probabilistic seismic hazard models, a global exposure dataset comprising structural and occupancy information regarding the residential, commercial and industrial buildings, and a comprehensive set of fragility and vulnerability functions for the most common building classes. These components were used to estimate probabilistic earthquake risk globally using the OpenQuake-engine, an open-source software for seismic hazard and risk analysis. This model allows estimating a number of risk metrics such as annualized average losses or aggregated losses for particular return periods, which are fundamental to the development and implementation of earthquake risk mitigation measures.
Particle Swarm Optimization-Support Vector Machine Model for Machinery Fault Diagnoses in High-Voltage Circuit Breakers
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Wu Shijing , Li Xiaoyong , Yuan Hao , Zhao Deng
Published: February 2020

According to statistic data, machinery faults contribute to largest proportion of High-voltage circuit breaker failures, and traditional maintenance methods exist some disadvantages for that issue. Therefore, based on the wavelet packet decomposition approach and support vector machines, a new diagnosis model is proposed for such fault diagnoses in this study. The vibration eigenvalue extraction is analyzed through wavelet packet decomposition, and a four-layer support vector machine is constituted as a fault classifier. The Gaussian radial basis function is employed as the kernel function for the classifier. The penalty parameter c and kernel parameter δ of the support vector machine are vital for the diagnostic accuracy, and these parameters must be carefully predetermined. Thus, a particle swarm optimization-support vector machine model is developed in which the optimal parameters c and δ for the support vector machine in each layer are determined by the particle swarm algorithm. The validity of this fault diagnosis model is determined with a real dataset from the operation experiment. Moreover, comparative investigations of fault diagnosis experiments with a normal support vector machine and a particle swarm optimization back-propagation neural network are also implemented. The results indicate that the proposed fault diagnosis model yields better accuracy and efficiency than these other models.
Simple Push-Type Wave Generating Method Using Digital Rotary Valve Control
Authors: Liu Yi , Zheng Jiafei , Song Ruiyin , Xu Qiaoning , Chen Junhua , Huang Fangping
Published: February 2020

The important parameters to describe waves are their amplitude and length. In order to make it easier to improve wave amplitude and facilitate wave experiment, a simple push-type wave generating method using digital rotary valve control was proposed and different wave amplitudes were generated by the new method. After the mathematical model of the new method had been established, numerical analysis based on the linear wave theory was carried out by means of Matlab/Simulink software tools, and experiments were conducted on the push-type wave maker to ascertain the validity of the established model and the numerical simulation results. It shows that both experimental and theoretical results agree relatively well, and the plate motion frequency and amplitude of the push-type wave maker can be continuously adjusted and the various required regular waves can be obtained. Although the wave amplitude and length descends with the increasing of working frequency, the wave amplitude can be improved conveniently by setting the axial opening width of the valve and the oil supply pressure of system. The wave length remains unchanged with the axial opening width and the oil supply pressure change. The research indicates that different regular waves can be easily generated by the new method and the wave amplitude can be further improved in a certain plate motion frequency range.
CuFe2O4/MoS2 Mixed-Dimensional Heterostructures with Improved Gas Sensing Response
Authors: Zhang Kenan , Ding Changchun , She Yihong , Wu Zhen , Zhao Changhui , Pan Baojun , Zhang Lijie , Zhou Wei , Fan Qunchao
Published: February 2020

Mixed-dimensional (2D + nD, n = 0, 1, and 3) heterostructures opened up a new avenue for fundamental physics studies and applied nanodevice designs. Herein, a novel type-II staggered band alignment CuFe2O4/MoS2 mixed-dimensional heterostructures (MHs) that present a distinct enhanced (20–28%) acetone gas sensing response compared with pure CuFe2O4 nanotubes are reported. Based on the structural characterizations and DFT calculation results, the tentative mechanism for the improvement of gas sensing performance of the CuFe2O4/MoS2 MHs can be attributed to the synergic effect of type-II band alignment and the MoS2 active sites.
How to start your monocot CRISPR/Cas project: plasmid design, efficiency detection, and offspring analysis
Authors: Yue Jin-Jun , Hong Chwan-Yang , Wei Pengcheng , Tsai Yu-Chang , Lin Choun-Sea
Published: February 2020

The breakthrough CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat)/Cas9-mediated genome-editing technology has led to great progress in monocot research; however, several factors need to be considered for the efficient implementation of this technology. To generate genome-edited crops, single guide (sg)RNA and Cas9 DNA are delivered into plant cells and expressed, and the predicted position is targeted. Analyses of successful targeted mutations have revealed that the expression levels, expression timing, and variants of both sgRNA and Cas9 need to be sophisticatedly regulated; therefore, the promoters of these genes and the target site positions are the key factors for genome-editing efficiency. Currently, various vectors and online tools are available to aid sgRNA design. Furthermore, to reduce the sequence limitation of the protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) and for other purposes, many Cas protein variants and base editors can be used in plants. Before the stable transformation of a plant, the evaluation of vectors and target sites is therefore very important. Moreover, the delivery of Cas9-sgRNA ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) is one strategy that can be used to prevent transgene issues with the expression of sgRNA and Cas proteins. RNPs can be used to efficiently generate transgene-free genome-edited crops that can reduce transgene issues related to the generation of genetically modified organisms. In this review, we introduce new techniques for genome editing and identifying marker-free genome-edited mutants in monocot crops. Four topics are covered: the design and construction of plasmids for genome editing in monocots; alternatives to SpCas9; protoplasts and CRISPR; and screening for marker-free CRISPR/Cas9-induced mutants. We have aimed to encompass a full spectrum of information for genome editing in monocot crops.
Intron-Based Single Transcript Unit CRISPR Systems for Plant Genome Editing
Authors: Zhong Zhaohui , Liu Shishi , Liu Xiaopei , Liu Binglin , Tang Xu , Ren Qiurong , Zhou Jianping , Zheng Xuelian , Qi Yiping , Zhang Yong
Published: February 2020

Background

Expression of either Cas9 or Cas12a and guide RNAs by a single Polymerase II (Pol II) promoter represents a compact CRISPR expression system and has many advantages for different applications. In order to make this system routine in plant biology, engineering efforts are needed for developing and optimizing such single transcript unit (STU) systems for plant genome editing.

Results

To develop novel intron-based STU (iSTU) CRISPR system (STU CRISPR 3.0), we first evaluated three introns from three plant species for carrying guide RNAs by using an enhanced green fluorescence protein (eGFP) system in rice. After validation of proper intron slicing, we inserted these gRNA-containing introns into the open reading frames (ORFs) of Cas9 and Cas12a for testing their genome editing capability. Different guide RNA processing strategies have been tested for Cas9 and Cas12a. We demonstrated singular genome editing and multiplexed genome editing with these iSTU-Cas9 and iSTU-Cas12a systems.

Conclusion

We developed multiple iSTU-CRISPR/Cas9 and Cas12a systems for plant genome editing. Our results shed light on potential directions for further improvement of the iSTU systems.
Automated measurement of leakage on wide-field angiography in the assessment of retinal vasculitis
Authors: Venkat Arthi G. , Sharma Sumit
Published: February 2020

Automated analysis of leakage on fluorescein angiography is a measurable and clinically applicable endpoint that can be used to follow patients with posterior uveitis. A number of studies have analyzed the use of automated analysis of leakage on fluorescein angiography and are reviewed in this article.
Utility of wound cultures in the management of open globe injuries: a 5-year retrospective review
Authors: Drumright Ryan T. , Regan Kathleen A. , Lin Albert L. , Moroux Meghan G. , Iyer Siva S. R.
Published: February 2020

Background

Endophthalmitis after open globe injury can be devastating to vision recovery. As treatment of endophthalmitis is often empiric, some surgeons may obtain cultures at presentation of trauma in anticipation of later infection. This study examines the usefulness of wound cultures obtained during globe repair.

Results

Institutional Review Board approval was obtained. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed, with 168 open globes included. Cultures of the wound site had been taken in all cases included in this study. Wound cultures were positive in 63% of cases but were not used for clinical decision-making for any patient in this study. Two patients had evidence of endophthalmitis at presentation, with results of vitreous culture matching those from the wound. No patient later developed endophthalmitis after open globe repair.

Conclusions

Despite a high rate of wound contamination, few cases of endophthalmitis (1.2%) were seen in this series. In no case did the results of wound culture impact choice of antibiotic prophylaxis or treatment. Cultures obtained at the time of open globe repair were not cost effective in the subsequent management of the injury.
Integrated mRNA and miRNA transcriptome analysis reveals a regulatory network for tuber expansion in Chinese yam (Dioscorea opposita)
Authors: Zhou Yunyi , Luo Shuzhen , Hameed Saba , Xiao Dong , Zhan Jie , Wang Aiqin , He Longfei
Published: February 2020

Background

Yam tuber is a storage organ, derived from the modified stem. Tuber expansion is a complex process, and depends on the expressions of genes that can be influenced by environmental and endogenous factors. However, little is known about the regulatory mechanism of tuber expansion. In order to identify the genes and miRNAs involved in tuber expansion, we examined the mRNAs and small RNAs in Dioscorea opposita (Chinese yam) cv. Guihuai 16 tuber during its initiation and expansion stages.

Results

A total of 14,238 differentially expressed genes in yam tuber at its expansion stage were identified by using RNA sequencing technology. Among them, 5723 genes were up-regulated, and 8515 genes were down-regulated. Functional analysis revealed the coordination of tuber plant involved in processes of cell events, metabolism, biosynthesis, and signal transduction pathways at transcriptional level, suggesting that these differentially expressed genes are somehow involved in response to tuber expansion, including CDPK, CaM, CDL, SAUR, DELLA, SuSy, and expansin. In addition, 541 transcription factor genes showed differential expression during the expansion stage at transcriptional level. MADS, bHLH, and GRAS were involved in cell differentiation, division, and expansion, which may relate to tuber expansion. Noteworthy, data analysis revealed that 22 known tuber miRNAs belong to 10 miRNA families, and 50 novel miRNAs were identified. The integrated analysis of miRNA-mRNA showed that 4 known miRNAs and 11 genes formed 14 miRNA-target mRNA pairs were co-expressed in expansion stage. miRNA160, miRNA396, miRNA535 and miRNA5021 may be involved in complex network to regulate cell division and differentiation in yam during its expansion stage.

Conclusion

The mRNA and miRNA datasets presented here identified a subset of candidate genes and miRNAs that are putatively associated with tuber expansion in yam, a hypothetical model of genetic regulatory network associated with tuber expansion in yam was put forward, which may provide a foundation for molecular regulatory mechanism researching on tuber expansion in Dioscorea species.
Correction to: Atypical presentation of hemorrhagic shock in pregnancy: a case highlighting the developing field of emergency medicine in Israel
Authors: Berzon Baruch , Gleenberg Michael , Offenbacher Joseph , West Debra
Published: February 2020

The original article [1] contained a misspelling in first author, Baruch Berzon’s name which has since been corrected.
Prevalence and associated factors for pterygium in Han and Mongolian adults: a cross-sectional study in inner Mongolian, China
Authors: Wang Yuhan , Shan Guangliang , Gan Linyang , Qian Yonggang , Chen Ting , Wang Hailing , Pan Xiaodan , Wang Wenrui , Pan Li , Zhang Xia , Wang Meng , Ma Jin , Zhong Yong
Published: February 2020

Background

To investigate the prevalence of pterygium and associated factors in Han and Mongolian adults at four survey sites in Inner Mongolia, China.

Methods

We conducted a population-based, cross-sectional study as part of the China National Health Survey (CNHS). By means of a stratified sampling method, we finally included 2651 participants of 30 years of age or older from a total of 3468 eligible residents. Factors associated with pterygium were analysed by a univariate analysis and logistic regression models.

Results

The study population included 1910 Han and 741 Mongolian adults. The mean age ± standard deviation of the study cohort was 48.93 ± 11.06 years. The overall prevalence of pterygium was 6.4% (n = 169); 1.4% (n = 38) of the cases were bilateral and 4.8% (n = 128) were unilateral. The most common grade of pterygium was Grade 2. Based on the results of the univariate analysis, eleven factors were included in a multivariate analysis. The results indicated that age (P < 0.001), outdoor occupation (P = 0.026), and time spent in rural areas (P < 0.001) were significantly associated with pterygium. Sex and ethnicity were not identified as risk factors.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that outdoor occupation, old age and more time spent in rural areas were risk factors for pterygium in Inner Mongolia. At the same time, town as a survey site (Hohhot and Tsining District) was a protective factor for pterygium. Ethnicity, gender, smoking, diabetes and high blood pressure are not associated with pterygium.
The characteristics of spatial-temporal distribution and cluster of tuberculosis in Yunnan Province, China, 2005–2018
Authors: Chen Jinou , Qiu Yubing , Yang Rui , Li Ling , Hou Jinglong , Lu Kunyun , Xu Lin
Published: February 2020

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) makes a big challenge to public health, especially in high TB burden counties of China and Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). The aim of this study was to identify the spatial-temporal dynamic process and high-risk region of notified pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), sputum smear-positive tuberculosis (SSP-TB) and sputum smear-negative tuberculosis (SSN-TB) cases in Yunnan, the south-western of China between years of 2005 to 2018. Meanwhile, to evaluate the similarity of prevalence pattern for TB among GMS.

Methods

Data for notified PTB were extracted from the China Information System for Disease Control and Prevention (CISDCP) correspond to population information in 129 counties of Yunnan between 2005 to 2018. Seasonally adjusted time series defined the trend cycle and seasonality of PTB prevalence. Kulldorff’s space-time scan statistics was applied to identify temporal, spatial and spatial-temporal PTB prevalence clusters at county-level of Yunnan. Pearson correlation coefficient and hierarchical clustering were applied to define the similarity of TB prevalence among borders with GMS.

Result

There were a total of 381,855 notified PTB cases in Yunnan, and the average prevalence was 59.1 per 100,000 population between 2005 to 2018. A declined long-term trend with seasonality of a peak in spring and a trough in winter for PTB was observed. Spatial-temporal scan statistics detected the significant clusters of PTB prevalence, the most likely cluster concentrated in the northeastern angle of Yunnan between 2011 to 2015 (RR = 2.6, P < 0.01), though the most recent cluster for PTB and spatial cluster for SSP-TB was in borders with GMS. There were six potential TB prevalence patterns among GMS.

Conclusion

This study detected aggregated time interval and regions for PTB, SSP-TB, and SSN-TB at county-level of Yunnan province. Similarity prevalence pattern was found in borders and GMS. The localized prevention strategy should focus on cross-boundary transmission and SSN-TB control.
In vivo model to study the impact of genetic variation on clinical outcome of mastitis in uniparous dairy cows
Authors: Rohmeier L. , Petzl W. , Koy M. , Eickhoff T. , Hülsebusch A. , Jander S. , Macias L. , Heimes A. , Engelmann S. , Hoedemaker M. , Seyfert H. M. , Kühn C. , Schuberth H. J. , Zerbe H. , Meyerholz M. M.
Published: February 2020

Background

In dairy herds, mastitis causes detrimental economic losses. Genetic selection offers a sustainable tool to select animals with reduced susceptibility towards postpartum diseases. Studying underlying mechanisms is important to assess the physiological processes that cause differences between selected haplotypes. Therefore, the objective of this study was to establish an in vivo infection model to study the impact of selecting for alternative paternal haplotypes in a particular genomic region on cattle chromosome 18 for mastitis susceptibility under defined conditions in uniparous dairy cows.

Results

At the start of pathogen challenge, no significant differences between the favorable (Q) and unfavorable (q) haplotypes were detected. Intramammary infection (IMI) with Staphylococcus aureus 1027 (S. aureus, n = 24, 96 h) or Escherichia coli 1303 (E. coli, n = 12, 24 h) was successfully induced in all uniparous cows. This finding was confirmed by clinical signs of mastitis and repeated recovery of the respective pathogen from milk samples of challenged quarters in each animal. After S. aureus challenge, Q-uniparous cows showed lower somatic cell counts 24 h and 36 h after challenge (P < 0.05), lower bacterial shedding in milk 12 h after challenge (P < 0.01) and a minor decrease in total milk yield 12 h and 24 h after challenge (P < 0.01) compared to q-uniparous cows.

Conclusion

An in vivo infection model to study the impact of genetic selection for mastitis susceptibility under defined conditions in uniparous dairy cows was successfully established and revealed significant differences between the two genetically selected haplotype groups. This result might explain their differences in susceptibility towards IMI. These clinical findings form the basis for further in-depth molecular analysis to clarify the underlying genetic mechanisms for mastitis resistance.
Gross anatomy of coronary veins of the European bison (Bison bonasus)
Authors: Barszcz Karolina , Polguj Michał , Goździewska-Harłajczuk Karolina , Klećkowska-Nawrot Joanna , Olbrych Katarzyna , Haładaj Robert , Kupczyńska Marta
Published: February 2020

Background

Although significant efforts have been put into restituting the European bison (Bison bonasus) and increasing its population, it remains a globally endangered species and requires conservation. Protection programs of bison indicate the need for morphological studies of their individual systems, in order to enhance restitution programs and enable appropriate veterinary care. The aim of this study was to investigate the morphology of the coronary veins of the European bison (Bison bonasus).

Results

The study was carried out on 78 hearts of European bison of both sexes, aged 5 to 21 years. The subepicardial veins were clearly visible after being filled with dyed synthetic latex (LBS 3060), Plastogen G and Batson’s No. 17. In all the studied animals, the great cardiac vein drains into the coronary sinus. The interventricular paraconal branch and the circumflex branch of the great cardiac vein were distinguished. The left marginal vein, which originated in the apical area or halfway along the length of the left ventricular margin, was easily identified in 65 animals (83%). In most animals (51 bison, 65%), the middle cardiac vein drained into the coronary sinus, while in some animals it drained into the right atrium (27 animals, 35%).

Conclusions

Blood from the cardiac walls is drained into the great cardiac vein, the middle cardiac vein, the right coronary veins and numerous small cardiac veins.
Clinical trials of new drugs for Alzheimer disease
Authors: Huang Li-Kai , Chao Shu-Ping , Hu Chaur-Jong
Published: February 2020

Alzheimer disease (AD) accounts for 60–70% of dementia cases. Given the seriousness of the disease and continual increase in patient numbers, developing effective therapies to treat AD has become urgent. Presently, the drugs available for AD treatment, including cholinesterase inhibitors and an antagonist of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor, can only inhibit dementia symptoms for a limited period of time but cannot stop or reverse disease progression. On the basis of the amyloid hypothesis, many global drug companies have conducted many clinical trials on amyloid clearing therapy but without success. Thus, the amyloid hypothesis may not be completely feasible. The number of anti-amyloid trials decreased in 2019, which might be a turning point. An in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the contribution of amyloid beta and other factors of AD is crucial for developing novel pharmacotherapies.

In ongoing clinical trials, researchers have developed and are testing several possible interventions aimed at various targets, including anti-amyloid and anti-tau interventions, neurotransmitter modification, anti-neuroinflammation and neuroprotection interventions, and cognitive enhancement, and interventions to relieve behavioral psychological symptoms. In this article, we present the current state of clinical trials for AD atclinicaltrials.gov. We reviewed the underlying mechanisms of these trials, tried to understand the reason why prior clinical trials failed, and analyzed the future trend of AD clinical trials.
Change in the symptom profile treated as asthma – two cross-sectional studies twenty years apart
Authors: Pindus Mihkel , Orru Hans , Jõgi Rain
Published: February 2020

Aims

The aims of the study were to investigate prevalence trends of respiratory symptoms, asthma and asthma treatment among young adults in Estonia and to estimate changes in symptom profile among subjects who self-report asthma attacks or use asthma medications.

Methods

Two similar questionnaires on respiratory health were sent to subjects in Tartu, Estonia, aged between 20 and 44 years; first in 1993/94, and then in 2014/15. To study the impact of different respiratory symptoms on asthma diagnosis and treatment, the log–binomial regression was used to estimate the association between ‘attack of asthma’ (as a proxy for current asthma) and respiratory symptoms as well as asthma treatment and respiratory symptoms, adjusted for age, sex and smoking history.

Results

Self–reported prevalence of asthma attack, asthma medication use and nasal allergies increased over the twenty years between studies, whereas there was no change in prevalence of asthma–related symptoms, and the prevalence of most respiratory symptoms either decreased, or remained unchanged. For women experiencing asthma attacks, the prevalence of nasal allergies increased and waking with chest tightness decreased. For men using asthma medication, the prevalence of a wheeze without a cold decreased. Women using asthma medication reported decreased prevalence of waking with chest tightness.

Conclusion

Self-reported asthma attacks and asthma medication use has increased in last 20 years, while the prevalence of most respiratory symptoms either decreased or did not change. It is likely that changes in asthma symptom profile have had an impact on the prevalence of asthma and asthma treatment.
Associations of noise kurtosis, genetic variations in NOX3 and lifestyle factors with noise-induced hearing loss
Authors: Zhao Tianyu , Wang Yinan , Li Zheng , Xu Xiaojun , Lei Song , Huang Liu , Xu Liangwen , Zhang Meibian , Yang Lei
Published: February 2020

Background

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a complex disease caused by environmental and genetic risk factors. This study was to explore the association of noise kurtosis, triphosphopyridine nucleotide oxidase 3 (NOX3) and lifestyles with NIHL.

Methods

This case-control study included 307 patients with NIHL and 307 matched control individuals from Zhejiang province of China. General characteristics, noise exposure data, the exfoliated cells of the oral mucosa, and lifestyle details of individuals were collected. The kompetitive allele specific polymerase chain reaction (KASP) method was used to analyze the genotypes of three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of NOX3.

Results

People who exposed to complex noise had a higher risk of NIHL than those exposed to steady noise (adjusted: OR = 1.806, P = 0.002). The GT genotype of additive model and TT + GT genotype of dominant model in NOX3 rs12195525 decreased the risk of NIHL (adjusted: OR = 0.618, P = 0.043; OR = 0.622, P = 0.036). Smoking and exposure to high video volume increased the risk of NIHL (adjusted: OR = 1.486, P = 0.038; OR = 1.611, P = 0.014). Oppositely, regular physical exercise decreased the risk of NIHL (adjusted: OR = 0.598, P = 0.004). A positive interaction was found between complex noise and lifestyles including high video volume exposure and no physical exercise in the additive models (RERI = 1.088, P < 0.001; RERI = 1.054, P = 0.024). A positive interaction was also found between NOX3 rs12195525 GG genotype and lifestyles including smoking and high video volume exposure in the additive models (RERI = 1.042, P = 0.005; RERI = 0.774, P = 0.044).

Conclusions

Noise temporal structure, NOX3 rs12195525 polymorphism, and the three lifestyles of smoking, video volume, and physical exercise were related to the NIHL. There were the interactions between noise temporal structure and the lifestyle of video volume or physical exercise, as well as between NOX3 and the lifestyle of smoking or video volume. These results provide a theoretical basis for the prevention and genetic testing of NIHL.
YAP and the RhoC regulator ARHGAP18, are required to mediate flow-dependent endothelial cell alignment
Authors: Coleman Paul R. , Lay Angelina J. , Ting Ka Ka , Zhao Yang , Li Jia , Jarrah Sorour , Vadas Mathew A. , Gamble Jennifer R.
Published: February 2020

Background

Vascular endothelial cell alignment in the direction of flow is an adaptive response that protects against aortic diseases such as atherosclerosis. The RhoGTPases are known to regulate this alignment. We have shown previously that ARHGAP18 in endothelial cells is a negative regulator of RhoC and its expression is essential in flow-mediated alignment. Depletion of ARHGAP18 inhibits alignment and results in the induction of a pro-inflammatory phenotype. In embryogenesis, ARHGAP18 was identified as a downstream effector of the Yes-associated protein, YAP, which regulates cell shape and size.

Methods

We have used siRNA technology to deplete either ARHGAP18 or YAP in human endothelial cells. The in vitro studies were performed under athero-protective, laminar flow conditions. The analysis of YAP activity was also investigated, using high performance confocal imaging, in our ARHGAP18 knockout mutant mice.

Results

We show here that loss of ARHGAP18, although decreasing the expression of YAP results in its nuclear localisation consistent with activation. We further show that depletion of YAP itself results in its activation as defined by an in increase in its nuclear localisation and an increase in the YAP target gene, CyR61. Depletion of YAP, similar to that observed for ARHGAP18 depletion, results in loss of endothelial cell alignment under high shear stress mediated flow and also in the activation of NFkB, as determined by p65 nuclear localisation. In contrast, ARHGAP18 overexpression results in upregulation of YAP, its phosphorylation, and a decrease in the YAP target gene Cyr61, consistent with YAP inactivation. Finally, in ARHGAP18 deleted mice, in regions where there is a loss of endothelial cell alignment, a situation associated with a priming of the cells to a pro-inflammatory phenotype, YAP shows nuclear localisation.

Conclusion

Our results show that YAP is downstream of ARHGAP18 in mature endothelial cells and that this pathway is involved in the athero-protective alignment of endothelial cells under laminar shear stress. ARHGAP18 depletion leads to a disruption of the junctions as seen by loss of VE-Cadherin localisation to these regions and a concomitant localisation of YAP to the nucleus.
Ant schnapps for health and pleasure: the use of Formica rufa L. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) to flavour aquavit
Authors: Svanberg Ingvar , Berggren Åsa
Published: February 2020

Background

The relationship between humans and insects goes long back and is important. Insects provide a multitude of ecosystem services for humans, e g. by pollinating crops and decomposing matter. Our current knowledge about the cultural ecosystem services that insects provide is limited and not much examined.

Method

Scattered ethnographical descriptions and folklore records from pre-modern Sweden and other Scandinavian countries give us insights into local knowledge and use of insects among the peasantry in various parts of the country. These data have been analysed and critically reviewed. Source pluralism has been used as a method.

Results

The mound-building red wood ant,Formica rufaL., is one of the species that were used in Sweden for their healing properties. It was a widespread belief that the formic acid could be used to cure various diseases, especially gout and rheumatism. Both anthills and the ants themselves were used for that purpose. It was also common to flavour distilled liquor (brännvin) with ants; a remedy used for medicinal purposes. However, already in the eighteenth century, this was also used as schnapps. The cultural services provided by this species stretches throughout history and still exists today.

Conclusion

While the use of ants in medicine has vanished, the custom of making homemade ant flavoured alcoholic beverage survives in Sweden. Nowadays it is a hobby among people who flavour their own aquavit. It is appreciated as a tasty and interesting drink.
Progress and development on biological information of crop phenotype research applied to real-time variable-rate fertilization
Authors: Shi Yinyan , Zhu Yang , Wang Xiaochan , Sun Xin , Ding Yangfen , Cao Wexing , Hu Zhichao
Published: February 2020

Background

Variable-rate fertilization is crucial in the implementation of precision agriculture and for ensuring reasonable and efficient fertilizer application and nutrient management that is tailored to local conditions. The overall goal of these technologies is to maximize grain output and minimize fertilizer input and, thus, achieve the optimal input–output production ratio. As the main form of variable-rate fertilization, real-time variable-rate control technology adjusts fertilizer application according to the growth status and nutrient information of crops and, as such, its effective application relies on the stable and accurate acquisition of crop phenotypic information.

Results

Due to the relationship between crop phenotype and real-time fertilizer demand, phenotypic information has been increasingly applied in these contexts in recent years. Here, the establishment and characteristics of inversion models between crop phenotypic information and nutritional status are reviewed. The principles of real-time monitoring applications, the key technologies relating to crop phenotypic biological parameters, and the existing challenges for real-time variable-rate fertilization technology are also evaluated. Future research directions are then discussed in the specific context of the need for sustainable development of modern agriculture in China.

Conclusion

This paper provides a theoretical reference for the construction of scientific management technology systems aimed at reducing fertilizer application and maximizing output, and for the development of relevant technologies in the specific context of China.