bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Evaluation of Articular Involvement of Posterior Malleolus Associated with Operative Indication: A Comparative Study of Six Methods Based on Radiography and CT
Authors: Zhang Kun , Jia Xiaoyang , Qiang Minfei , Chen Song , Wang Shuguang , Wang Dongdong , Chen Yanxi
Published: January 2020

The aim of this study was to compare the values of six methods in measuring the involvement of posterior malleolus and to demonstrate the reliability and reproducibility of each method. Three independent orthopaedic surgeons, retrospectively, measured 106 cases. The difference between the six methods was analyzed using Bonferroni‐corrected paired t‐tests after one‐way ANOVA. The agreement between the six methods was analyzed using Bland–Altman analysis. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess intraobserver reproducibility and interobserver reliability. Significant differences were observed between values of any two of the six measurement methods (P < 0.0033), except between any two of the plane radiograph linear, axial CT linear, sagittal CT linear, and 3D CT linear. The Bland–Altman plots demonstrated poor agreement between values of any two of the six methods. The lowest intraobserver reproducibility was 0.46 (moderate) for resident surgeon using plain radiographs. The intraobserver reproducibility for three surgeons using two‐dimensional (2D) and 3D images was almost perfect (ICC, 0.82–0.96). The lowest interobserver reliability was 0.41 (moderate) between chief and attending surgeon using plain radiographs, and it improved to almost perfect (ICC, 0.81–0.95) with the use of 3D CT images. The standard error of measurement showed almost the same results as ICC values. The existing operative indications which were determined based on plain radiography are neither reliable nor suitable for other measurement methods. Both 3D linear and 3D surface measurement methods are reliable and reproducible in measuring posterior fragment involvement, and experience is not so crucial. Operative indications for posterior malleolar fractures need to be redefined based on the 3D measurement method.
Performance of Slurry Shield Tunnelling in Mixed Strata Based on Field Measurement and Numerical Simulation
Authors: Cui Jian , Xu Wang-Hao , Fang Yong , Tao Li-Ming , He Chuan
Published: January 2020

There are severe challenges for slurry pressure balance tunnel boring machine (TBM) tunnelling in sandy cobble soil of Beijing, Chengdu, and Lanzhou in China. And the problems caused by tunnelling from silty clay to sandy cobble stratum are more serious. With the change of stratum, the key parameters and surface settlement will change correspondingly. Controlling the key parameters and predicting the surface settlement accurately and efficiently is important for hazard mitigation and risk management. In this study, based on the Tsinghuayuan Tunnel project in Beijing, the key parameters and surface settlement while tunnelling from silty clay to sandy cobble stratum are studied. Firstly, the difference of key parameters while tunnelling in two different strata is analyzed. The analysis shows that immediate responses to changes in the stratum are recommended in order to ensure construction efficiency. Then, a refined 3D finite difference model is developed to simulate the slurry TBM tunnelling in different strata. For refined simulation, three key parameters obtained from measurement data were applied to the 3D models, and the simulation results were compared with the field data. Results show that the refined model has good performance in terms of the accuracy and efficiency. This study provides a good engineering practice reference for slurry TBM tunnelling in mixed strata.
Study of the Effect of Process Parameters on Surface Profile Accuracy in Single‐Point Incremental Sheet Forming of AA1050‐H14 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Dabwan Abdulmajeed , Ragab Adham E. , Saleh Mohamed A. , Anwar Saqib , Ghaleb Atef M. , Rehman Ateekh Ur
Published: January 2020

Single‐point incremental forming is an innovative flexible and inexpensive technique to form sheet products when prototypes or small batches are required. The process allows complex geometries to be produced using a computer numerical control machine, eliminating the need for a special die. This study reports on the effects of four important single‐point incremental forming process parameters on produced surface profile accuracies. The profile accuracy was estimated by measuring the side angle errors and surface roughness and also waviness and circularity of the product inner surface. Full factorial design of experiments was used to plan the study, and the analysis of variance was used to analyze and interpret the results. The results indicate that the tool diameter (d), step depth (s), and sheet thickness (t) have significant effects on the produced profile accuracy, while the feed rate (f) is not significant. As a general rule, thin sheets with greater tool diameters yielded the best surface quality. The results also show that controlling all surface quality features is complex because of the contradicting effects of, and interactions between, a number of the process parameters.
Pedaling Performance Changing of Elite Cyclists Is Mainly Determined by the Fatigue of Hamstring and Vastus Muscles during Repeated Sprint Cycling Exercise
Authors: Wang Lejun , Shao Qineng , Ma Guoqiang , Gong Mingxin , Niu Wenxin , Qiu Jun
Published: January 2020

Repeated sprint cycling is an effective training method in promoting athletic performance of cyclists, which may induce severe fatigue of lower limb muscles. However, the relationship between the fatigue of each lower limb muscles and the changing of exercise performance remains unclear. In this study, ten cyclist volunteers performed a series of 6‐second sprints with 24‐s recovery for five times. Power, cadence, and EMG mean frequency (MNF) of each lower limb muscle group for every 2‐second epoch, as well as the grey relational grade between exercise performance and MNF of each lower limb muscle group during the whole process were calculated. It has been found that MNF of Rectus femoris (RF), Vastus (VAS), Gastrocnemius (GAS), and the hamstring muscle group (HAM) showed significant negative correlation with the increase in both sprint number and intrasprint duration time, while the grey relational grade of HAM and VAS was higher than that of other muscles. The results demonstrated that the exercise performance of both power and cadence were most closing related to the fatigue degree of HAM and VAS during repeated sprint cycling exercise.
Bacteriuria in Pregnancy in a Danish Contemporary Cohort of Women
Authors: Greve Vinnie H. , Greve Thomas , Helmig Rikke B.
Published: January 2020

Introduction. The purpose of this study is to describe bacteriuria with regard to the uropathogens found in relation to the frequency of urine culture tests in a contemporary cohort of pregnant Danish women. Methods. A historical cohort study of 24,817 pregnant women registered in the Danish Fetal Medicine Database at Aarhus University Hospital, from 2010 to 2014. Social security numbers were linked to the microbiological database with the registration of 17,233 urine cultures in 8,807 women. Bacteriuria was defined as 1×105 CFU/ml, with a maximum of two urinary pathogens. Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) was included with 1×104 CFU/ml. Data are presented as numbers and proportions in percent. Logistic regression on predictors are presented as crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORc/ORa) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results. 42% had a urine sample culture test at the hospital—the majority only once during pregnancy. 96% of all urine culture tests were negative. The bacteriuria incidence was 5.6%. The most frequent uropathogenic bacteria isolated were Escherichia coli (49%), GBS (29%), and Enterococci (10%). We identified subgroups of women with increased likelihood of bacteriuria during pregnancy: age<25 years, ORa 1.60 (CI 1.26 to 2.02, p<0.001); age>34 years, ORa 1.28 (CI 1.01 to 1.61, p=0.040); Afro-Caribbean origin, ORa 1.872 (CI 1.13 to 3.07, p=0.014); Asian origin, ORa 2.07 (CI 1.29 to 3.32, p=0.002); and mixed ethnicity ORa 2.34 (CI 1.23 to 4.46, p=0.010). Women delivering preterm were more likely to have an episode of bacteriuria during pregnancy OR 2.05 (CI 1.36 to 3.09, p=0.001). Conclusions. 96% of urine culture tests in pregnant women are negative. Optimized urine sampling may change this. Escherichia coli and GBS are predominant uropathogens. Younger and elder women, certain ethnical groups, and women delivering preterm seem more likely to have bacteriuria during pregnancy.
Kernel Two-Dimensional Nonnegative Matrix Factorization: A New Method to Target Detection for UUV Vision System
Authors: Xu Jian , Bi Pengfei , Du Xue , Li Juan , Jiang Tianhao
Published: January 2020

This paper studies an advanced intelligent recognition method of underwater target based on unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) vision system. This method is called kernel two-dimensional nonnegative matrix factorization (K2DNMF) which can further improve underwater operation capability of the UUV vision system. Our contributions can be summarized as follows: (1) K2DNMF intends to use the kernel method for the matrix factorization both on the column and row directions of the two-dimensional image data in order to transform the original low-dimensional space with nonlinearity into a higher dimensional space with linearity; (2) In the K2DNMF method, a good subspace approximation to the original data can be obtained by the orthogonal constraint on column basis matrix and row basis matrix; (3) The column basis matrix and row basis matrix can extract the feature information of underwater target images, and an effective classifier is designed to perform underwater target recognition; (4) A series of related experiments were performed on three sets of test samples collected by the UUV vision system, the experimental results demonstrate that K2DNMF has higher overall target detection accuracy than the traditional underwater target recognition methods.
10D1F, an Anti-HER3 Antibody That Uniquely Blocks the Receptor Heterodimerization Interface, Potently Inhibits Tumor Growth Across a Broad Panel of Tumor Models
Authors: Thakkar Dipti , Sancenon Vicente , Taguiam Marvin M. , Guan Siyu , Wu Zhihao , Ng Eric , Paszkiewicz Konrad H. , Ingram Piers J. , Boyd-Kirkup Jerome D.
Published: January 2020

In recent years, HER3 has increasingly been implicated in the progression of a variety of tumor types and in acquired resistance to EGFR and HER2 therapies. Whereas EGFR and HER2 primarily signal through the MAPK pathway, HER3, as a heterodimer with EGFR or HER2, potently activates the PI3K pathway. Despite its critical role, previous attempts to target HER3 with neutralizing antibodies have shown disappointing efficacy in the clinic, most likely due to suboptimal and indirect mechanisms of action that fail to completely block heterodimerization; for example, tumors can escape inhibition of ligand binding by upregulating ligand-independent mechanisms of HER3 activation. We therefore developed 10D1F, a picomolar affinity, highly specific anti-HER3 neutralizing antibody that binds the HER3 heterodimerization interface, a region that was hitherto challenging to raise antibodies against. We demonstrate that 10D1F potently inhibits both EGFR:HER3 and HER2:HER3 heterodimerization to durably suppress activation of the PI3K pathway in a broad panel of tumor models. Even as a monotherapy, 10D1F shows superior inhibition of tumor growth in the same cell lines both in vitro and in mouse xenograft experiments, when compared with other classes of anti-HER3 antibodies. This includes models demonstrating ligand-independent activation of heterodimerization as well as constitutively activating mutations in the MAPK pathway. Possessing favorable pharmacokinetic and toxicologic profiles, 10D1F uniquely represents a new class of anti-HER3 neutralizing antibodies with a novel mechanism of action that offers significant potential for broad clinical benefit.

10D1F is a novel anti-HER3 antibody that uniquely binds the receptor dimerization interface to block ligand-dependent and independent heterodimerization with EGFR/HER2 and thus more potently inhibits tumor growth than existing anti-HER3 antibodies.
Acalabrutinib plus Obinutuzumab in Treatment-Naïve and Relapsed/Refractory Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Woyach Jennifer A. , Blachly James S. , Rogers Kerry A. , Bhat Seema A. , Jianfar Mojgan , Lozanski Gerard , Weiss David M. , Andersen Barbara L. , Gulrajani Michael , Frigault Melanie M. , Hamdy Ahmed , Izumi Raquel , Munugalavadla Veerendra , Quah Cheng , Wang Min-Hui , Byrd John C.
Published: January 2020

Acalabrutinib is a selective irreversible Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor that does not affect IL2-associated tyrosine kinase or antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, making it an attractive candidate for combination therapy with anti-CD20 antibodies. We investigated acalabrutinib plus obinutuzumab in a phase Ib/II study (NCT02296918) of patients with treatment-naïve or relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Nineteen treatment-naïve and 26 relapsed/refractory patients were treated with acalabrutinib (100 mg twice daily) until progression and obinutuzumab (cycle 1: 100 mg day 1, 900 mg day 2, 1000 mg days 8 and 15; cycles 2–6: 1,000 mg day 1). Grade 3/4 adverse events occurred in 71% of patients. Overall response rates were 95% (treatment-naïve) and 92% (relapsed/refractory). Thirty-two percent of treatment-naïve and 8% of relapsed/refractory patients achieved complete remission. At 36 months, 94% (treatment-naïve) and 88% (relapsed/refractory) were progression free. Acalabrutinib plus obinutuzumab was well tolerated, producing high and durable responses in treatment-naïve and relapsed/refractory CLL.

Significance:

Rituximab plus the less selective BTK inhibitor ibrutinib has not shown benefit in CLL; however, the selective BTK inhibitor acalabrutinib plus the antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity–enhanced antibody obinutuzumab yielded durable responses that deepened over time in treatment-naïve and relapsed/refractory CLL, supporting the evaluation of this approach in larger, comparative studies in CLL.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 327
Outcomes and Safety of Biweekly and Monthly Nivolumab in Patients with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma and Dialysis: Three Case Reports and Literature Review
Authors: Osmán-García Ignacio , Congregado-Ruiz C. Belen , Lendínez-Cano Guillermo , Baena-Villamarin Cristina , Conde-Sanchez Jose Manuel , Medina-López Rafael Antonio
Published: January 2020

Nivolumab is a fully human immunoglobulin G4 programmed death-1 (PD-1) immune checkpoint inhibitor antibody that selectively blocks the interaction between PD-1, which is expressed on activated T cells, and its ligands PD-L1 and PD-L2, which are expressed on immune cells and tumour cells. Patients with severe renal dysfunction and haemodialysis are not enrolled in clinical trials. However, in daily clinical practice, we have patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The scientific evidence about the efficacy and safety of nivolumab in these patients is scarce. We report three cases of mRCC patients with ESRD treated with second-line nivolumab therapy. They received both biweekly and monthly schemes. None of our patients showed grade 2–4 toxicities. Two patients achieved partial response and one progressive disease as best response. Our patients did not show increased toxicity by ESRD; also, two of the three patients had objectifiable clinical benefit. Nivolumab seems to be similarly safe for ESRD or dialysis patients as for patients without impaired kidney function (IKF). Dose adjustments might not be necessary. We suggest that patients on dialysis could be treated with nivolumab in the same way as populations without IKF.
One-Year Results of Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema with Aflibercept Using the Treat-and-Extend Dosing Regimen: the VIBIM Study
Authors: Pak Kang Yeun , Shin Jae Pil , Kim Hyun Woong , Sagong Min , Kim Yu Cheol , Lee Sang Joon , Chung In Young , Park Sung Who , Lee Ji Eun
Published: January 2020

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to report the one-year results of treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME) with aflibercept using a treat-and-extend regimen (TER). Methods: This was a prospective, multicenter, single-arm study planned for 2 years. The eyes received 5 consecutive intravitreal injections of 2 mg of aflibercept every 4 weeks, and the interval between injections was then adjusted by 2 weeks based on changes in the central subfield macular thickness (CSMT). If the CSMT was worse, stable, or better, the interval was shortened, extended, or maintained, respectively. The primary outcome measure was the change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline to 104 weeks, and the secondary outcome was the change in BCVA from baseline to 52 weeks. Results: Of the 48 patients enrolled, 46 completed a 1-year visit. BCVA improved significantly by 9.1 letters (95% confidence interval: 5.3–13.0 letters) from 56.2 letters at baseline (p < 0.001), and CSMT decreased by –171.7 μm from 489.4 to 317.7 μm (p < 0.001). The proportion of eyes having 20/40 or better vision increased from 17.4 to 41.3%, and the proportion of eyes that gained ≥15 letters was 28.3%. The mean number of injections was 8.5 times for 52 weeks. Worsening of macular edema did not occur in 76.1% of eyes during the extension period, and the interval between injections was extended to 12 weeks in 73.9% of eyes at 52 weeks. Conclusions: The TER showed 1-year efficacy comparable to that of the fixed dosing regimen of pivotal trials, and its flexible dosing would prevent overtreatment.
Resveralogues: From Novel Ageing Mechanisms to New Therapies?
Authors: Faragher Richard G.A. , Ostler Elizabeth L.
Published: January 2020

For much of the 20th century the ageing process was thought to be the result of the interplay of many different biological processes, each with relatively small effects on organismal lifespan. However, this model is no longer tenable. Rather it seems a few biological mechanisms, including nutrient sensing, telomere attrition and cellular senescence, mediate large effects on health and longevity. Biogerontology may have suffered from initial delusions of complexity. However, we argue that it is premature to assume either that the list of biological processes influencing lifespan is now comprehensive or that these mechanisms act independently of each other. A case in point is provided by recent work linking together changes in RNA splicing with advancing age and the ability of polyphenolics based on resveratrol to reverse replicative senescence. In this opinion piece, we propose a novel model in which the factors regulating splice restriction and those controlling cell senescence intersect across chronological and divisional time, giving rise to senescent and growing cells with more diverse properties than previously thought. We also consider therapeutic opportunities and potential problems in the light of this revised conceptual understanding of human cell senescence and ageing.
Frameless Stereotactic Targeting of the Cerebellar Dentate Nucleus in Nonhuman Primates: Translatable Model for the Surgical Delivery of Gene Therapy
Authors: Wetzel Jeremy S. , Hardcastle Nathan , Tora Muhibullah S. , Federici Thais , Frey Stephen , Novek Jennifer , Arulanandam Tony , Johnson Mark , Pielemeier Randy , Boulis Nicholas M.
Published: January 2020

Background: Stereotactic targeting techniques in nonhuman primate (NHP) models are often utilized in the preclinical investigation of new drug therapies with the goal of demonstrating accurate and reliable delivery of a therapy to the target tissue. However, targeting certain neuroanatomical structures can be challenging. The deep cerebellar nuclei, specifically the dentate nucleus, are potential stereotactic targets for the treatment of certain ataxias. Currently, there are no detailed techniques describing frameless targeting of these structures in a NHP model. A well-defined, accurate, and reliable stereotactic surgical approach to the dentate in these animal models is critical to prove the feasibility and safety of drug delivery in order to develop clinical protocols. Methods: Frameless stereotactic neuronavigation was employed to target the bilateral dentate nuclei of the cerebellum in four healthy juvenile Cynomolgus monkeys via a suboccipital, transcerebellar approach. The precision and accuracy of the targeting were evaluated radiologically and histologically. Results: Using the described surgical methodology, we were successful in hitting the target deep cerebellar nuclei seven out of eight times. Conclusion: Frameless stereotactic targeting of the cerebellar dentate nuclei in NHPs for future investigational drug delivery is feasible, safe, and accurate as described by this report. Potential areas for improving the technique are discussed.
Dual Antiplatelet Therapy after Intravenous Thrombolysis for Acute Minor Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zhao Guangjian , Lin Fanzhen , Wang Ziran , Shao Xiaolin , Gong Yanxue , Zhang Shirui , Cui Yansen , Yang Daiqun , Lei Hongyan , Cheng Zhongrong , Wang Liquan , Guo Dongdong , Zhang Qinghua
Published: January 2020

Objective: To verify the efficacy and safety of dual antiplatelet therapy after intravenous thrombolysis for acute minor ischemic stroke (AMIS). Methods: AMIS patients who received recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) intravenous thrombolysis from January to October 2018 were retrospectively analyzed and divided into the aspirin (ASP) and ASP + clopidogrel (ASP-CLO) groups based on the type of antiplatelet therapy to compare the rates of good clinical outcome, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (SICH) after thrombolysis, and mortality in 90 days. Results: A total of 207 patients were included (group ASP, 105 patients; group ASP-CLO, 102 patients). There was no significant difference in the baseline clinical data between the 2 groups. The ­90-day modified Rankin scale scores (66.7 vs. 82.4%, p = 0.009) showed a statistically significant difference, but SICH (1.0 vs. 1.0%, p = 0.917) and 90-day mortality (1.9 vs. 1.0%, p = 0.585) showed no significant difference between the 2 groups. Conclusions: Short-term (21 days) dual antiplatelet therapy after rt-PA intravenous thrombolysis for AMIS can improve the prognosis, reduce the risk of stroke recurrence, without increasing the risk of bleeding and mortality.
Outcomes of Adult Heart Transplantation Using Hepatitis C–Positive Donors
Authors: Kilic Arman , Hickey Gavin , Mathier Michael , Sultan Ibrahim , Gleason Thomas G. , Horn Ed , Keebler Mary E.
Published: January 2020

Background

This study evaluated the impact of hepatitis C–positive (
HCV
+) donors on outcomes of heart transplantation in the United States.

Methods and Results

Adults undergoing isolated heart transplantation in the United States between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2018, were included. The primary outcome was 1‐year post‐transplant survival. Multivariable Cox regression and 2:1 propensity matching were used to compare outcomes between transplants with
HCV
+ and hepatitis C–negative (
HCV
−) donors. A subanalysis was performed to evaluate the impact of nucleic acid amplification test positivity on outcomes. Of 7889 isolated heart transplants performed during the study period, 343 (4.4%) used
HCV
+ donors. Overall unadjusted 1‐year posttransplant survival was not statistically different between
HCV
− versus
HCV
+ donors (91.1% versus 90.2%;
P
=0.86), a finding that persisted after risk adjustment (hazard ratio, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.70–1.58;
P
=0.80). Propensity matching resulted in 675 well‐balanced patients (437
HCV
− and 238
HCV
+). Overall 1‐year posttransplant survival was not statistically different in propensity‐matched analysis (89.8%
HCV
− versus 89.2%
HCV
+;
P
=0.88). Rates of 1‐year drug‐treated rejection (21.1% versus 22.1%;
P
=0.84), postoperative dialysis (11.4% versus 14.7%;
P
=0.22), and stroke (4.6% versus 2.1%;
P
=0.10) were also not statistically different between
HCV
− and
HCV
+ groups, respectively. Outcomes were not statistically different between nucleic acid amplification test–negative and nucleic acid amplification test–positive
HCV
+ donors.

Conclusions

Adult heart transplants using
HCV
+ donors, including those that are nucleic acid amplification test positive, can be performed without an adverse impact on 1‐year survival. Wider implementation of protocols for using
HCV
+ donors and an assessment of longer‐term outcomes including seroconversion rates will be important in maximizing the effect of
HCV
+ donors on national donor shortages.
Diastolic Blood Pressure Is Associated With Regional White Matter Lesion Load
Authors: Caunca Michelle R. , Simonetto Marialaura , Cheung Ying Kuen , Alperin Noam , Lee Sang H. , Elkind Mitchell S.V. , Sacco Ralph L. , Rundek Tatjana , Wright Clinton B.
Published: January 2020

Background and Purpose—

Few studies have examined the separate contributions of systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressures (DBP) on subclinical cerebrovascular disease, especially using the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Blood Pressure Guidelines. Furthermore, associations with region-specific white matter hyperintensity volume (WMHV) are underexplored.

Methods—

Using data from the NOMAS (Northern Manhattan Study), a prospective cohort study of stroke risk and cognitive aging, we examined associations between systolic blood pressure and DBP, defined by the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines, with regional WMHV. We used a linear mixed model approach to account for the correlated nature of regional brain measures.

Results—

The analytic sample (N=1205; mean age 64±8 years) consisted of 61% women and 66% Hispanics/Latinos. DBP levels were significantly related to WMHV differentially across regions (
P
for interaction<0.05). Relative to those with DBP 90+ mm Hg, participants with DBP <80 mm Hg had 13% lower WMHV in the frontal lobe (95% CI, −21% to −3%), 11% lower WMHV in the parietal lobe (95% CI, −19% to −1%), 22% lower WMHV in the anterior periventricular region (95% CI, −30% to −14%), and 16% lower WMHV in the posterior periventricular region (95% CI, −24% to −6%). Participants with DBP 80 to 89 mm Hg also exhibited about 12% (95% CI, −20% to −3%) lower WMHV in the anterior periventricular region and 9% (95% CI, −18% to −0.4%) lower WMHV in the posterior periventricular region, relative to participants with DBP 90≥ mm Hg. Post hoc pairwise
t
tests showed that estimates for periventricular WMHV were significantly different from estimates for temporal WMHV (Holms stepdown–adjusted
P
<0.05). Systolic blood pressure was not strongly related to regional WMHV.

Conclusions—

Lower DBP levels, defined by the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines, were related to lower white matter lesion load, especially in the periventricular regions relative to the temporal region.
What We Know (and Could Know) About International Environmental Agreements
Authors: Mitchell Ronald B. , Andonova Liliana B. , Axelrod Mark , Balsiger Jörg , Bernauer Thomas , Green Jessica F. , Hollway James , Kim Rakhyun E. , Morin Jean-Frédéric
Published: January 2020

Initiated in 2002, the International Environmental Agreements Data Base (IEADB) catalogs the texts, memberships, and design features of over 3,000 multilateral and bilateral environmental agreements. Using IEADB data, we create a comprehensive review of the evolution of international environmental law, including how the number, subjects, and state memberships in IEAs have changed over time. By providing IEA texts, the IEADB helps scholars identify and systematically code IEA design features. We review scholarship derived from the IEADB on international environmental governance, including insights into IEA membership, formation, and design as well as the deeper structure of international environmental law. We note the IEADB’s value as a teaching tool to promote undergraduate and graduate teaching and research. The IEADB’s structure and content opens up both broad research realms and specific research questions, and facilitates the ability of scholars to use the IEADB to answer those questions of greatest interest to them.
Politics in the Frontline: Local Civil-Military Interactions in Communist Counterinsurgency Operations in the Philippines
Authors: Hall Rosalie Arcala
Published: January 2020

This article examines the interaction of local army units and town/village leaders in several communist frontline communities in Southern Iloilo, in the light of changes in the national government’s policy response after 1986. Civil-military engagement in the frontline is asymmetrical and premised on different understandings of the nature and assessment of the communist threat. For soldiers, the communists are embedded in the community, and pose a serious threat. Local leaders downplay the rebel threat and view the communists as outsiders, but express a nuanced view of the different roles locals play in the communist movement and factional affiliation of rebels in their area. Except for paramilitary formation, the military devises all counterinsurgency programs while civilian leaders and the police are confined to implementation. The Municipal Peace and Order Councils do not serve as institutional means for local civilian leaders to oversee military operations, but rather as venues for local commands to obtain logistical support. Civil-military interface on human rights concerns has become less confrontational and oriented towards soldiers carrying firearms in public, abuse of local generosity particularly in quartering and food provision, and complaints procedure for minor infractions.
Some Arguments for an Institutional Approach to Philippine Politics
Authors: Pilapil Gene Lacza
Published: January 2020

This paper presents some arguments for the usefulness of developing an institutional approach to the study of Philippine politics. It argues that such an approach could address some of the blind sides of the more dominant society-based approaches currently used in making sense of the dynamics of Philippine politics. In addressing these blind sides, the paper argues that the institutional approach fulfills two seemingly contradictory requirements that any new conceptual approach to Philippine politics must fulfill. First of all, it is holistic enough to grasp most of the crucial forces shaping the dynamics of Philippine state and society. At the same time, it is detailed enough to allow for a finer understanding of specific political-institutional issues.
Governance during Disasters: Intra-Governmental and Non-Governmental Coordination in the 2006 Guimaras Oil Spill
Authors: Hall Rosalie Arcala
Published: January 2020

The responses of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Petron, government line agencies, local government authorities and non-government organizations to the 2006 Solar I oil spill were moderated by their relative positions within overlapping and competing disaster-specific frameworks at the agency (PCG), local and regional levels. The regional Task Force Solar I Oil Spill (RTFSOS), once convened, overshadowed the other frameworks owing largely to national calamity funds channeled through its member line agencies. While the task force design allowed for better job delineation and horizontal coordination between a limited number of stakeholders, the framework nevertheless marginalized the PCG, local government authorities and NGOs while endowing Petron a legitimate basis for its involvement in response operations. The absence of a widely-accepted protocol for ameliorating the spill’s environmental and human health impact created tension between line government agencies and academic/research communities. Unlike other disasters, the prospect of financial largesse from the International Oil Pollution Compensation Fund, either as reimbursements for response activities and compensation for livelihood losses, animated stakeholder and local reactions.
Application of Domestic Criminal Statutes in regard to International Crimes
Authors: Parmas Andres
Published: January 2020

In order for an international crime to be prosecuted in a domestic court, norms prescribing punishability have to be adopted in the legal system of the respective State. The article analyses issues that come up with autonomous transposition of international criminal law norms into the domestic legal order, based on the example of the Estonian Penal Code. It also seeks to offer an explanation as to why it is necessary to be aware of these issues and what the strategies would be to overcome problems with transposition. Both issues of the special part as well as the general part are touched upon.
Converting a King: The Jesuit William Crichton and King James vi and i
Authors: McCoog, S.J. Thomas M.
Published: January 2020

From the first encounter with King James vi of Scotland, the Society of Jesus believed in the possibility of his conversion. Such a religious transformation would reverberate beyond the northern kingdom and indeed beyond the British Isles. Finances and proposals were advanced to attain this goal. With noticeable encouragement from James in the 1590s as he positioned himself to ascend the English throne as Elizabeth’s successor, many Catholics rallied to his cause. Once he had ascended the throne, he could cast caution to the proverbial wind and disclose his religious allegiance. Presented here are two memorials, both most likely written by the Scottish Jesuit William Crichton, on the possibility of James’s conversion. The first can be dated circa 1580, at the very inception of the project; the second is post-Gunpowder Plot (1605) by which time nearly everyone had abandoned any hope in its successful completion. But Crichton, naively or optimistically, still insisted there was a chance.
Sida sivarajanii (Malvaceae): a new species from India

Authors: TAMBDE GAJANAN , SARDESAI MILIND , PANDEY ARUN K.
Published: January 2020

A new species, Sida sivarajanii (Malvaceae) from Aurangabad, Maharashtra, India is described. It is morphologically most similar to S. alnifolia and S. rhomboidea but differs in its conical ovary covered with stellate pubescence, 5 styles, 5 dehiscent mericarps and multireticulate spermoderm pattern. The ITS sequence data also confirm the distinctness of the new species. In this study, a comprehensive description, phenology, distribution, habitat and identification key of S. sivarajanii are provided.
Filling biogeographic gaps about the shrimp Farfantepenaeus isabelae Tavares & Gusmão, 2016 (Decapoda: Penaeidae) in South America
Authors: FRANÇA NIELSON F. C. , ALENCAR CARLOS E. R. D. , MANTELATTO FERNANDO L. , FREIRE FÚLVIO A. M.
Published: January 2020

Farfantepenaeus isabelae is a recently described pink shrimp species with occurrence restricted to the South Atlantic. The real geographic distribution of this species is still uncertain, probably due to difficulties on identification in relation to congeners. The present study aims to increase the knowledge about its occurrence by using an integrative approach with morphology, molecular and niche modeling analysis. Our results extend both western and eastern limits of occurrence of F. isabelae, elucidating gaps along the northern region of Brazil. The knowledge about its distribution will contribute to updating the politics of management and fishing in order to preserve its natural stocks.
Revised status of Omolicna subgenus Agoo (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Fulgoroidea: Derbidae) with a new species from Costa Rica and new country records
Authors: BAHDER BRIAN W. , BARTLETT CHARLES R. , HELMICK ERICKA E. , BARRANTES EDWIN A. BARRANTES , ECHAVARRIA MARCO A. ZUMBADO , GOSS ERICA M. , ASCUNCE MARINA S.
Published: January 2020

An ongoing survey for novel phytoplasmas and viruses that affect palms (Arecaceae) and their potential vectors is being conducted in Costa Rica. During that survey, a new species of derbid planthopper (Hemiptera: Fulgoroidea) from the palm Astrocaryum alatum H.F. Loomis was found in Heredia State and is here described as Agoo dahliana sp. n. Omolicna dubia Caldwell and O. latens Fennah were also found on coconut palms (Cocos nucifera L.) and represent new country records. Sequence data for the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) were generated for 9 ingroup (Omolicna Fennah) and 1 outgroup (Neocenchrea Metcalf) taxa; and for 18S ribosomal RNA gene were generated for 8 ingroup plus 2 outgroup taxa (Neocenchrea, Cenchrea Westwood). These data were compiled with available data from GenBank and BOLD for maximum likelihood phylogenetic reconstruction for Omolicna. These results, plus morphological evidence, support changing the status of the genus-group name Agoo Bahder & Bartlett from subgenus within Omolicna to full genus, resulting in the new combination of Agoo xavieri Bahder & Bartlett. Based on the original description and illustration of the genitalia of Omolicna rubrimarginata Fennah (from Trinidad), we transfer this species to Agoo, creating the combination Agoo rubrimarginata (Fennah), and bringing the total number of species in this genus to three, with A. dahliana sp. n. and A. xavieri currently only known from Costa Rica. Based on both molecular and morphological evidence, O dubia is transferred to Anchimothon Fennah. A key to differentiate the species of Agoo is presented.
Electrochemical Oxidation of High-Concentration Ozone Generation in Flowing Water Through Boron Doped Diamond Electrodes
Authors: Park Yeong Min , Bae Mun Ki , Kim Jeong Wan , Kim Tae Gyu
Published: January 2020

Because of its stable crystal structure, a boron-doped diamond (BDD) has been attracting great attention as a promising material for a next-generation electrode. For instance, the BDD is a wellknown candidate to be exploited as an electrode for the ozone generation with its longer life-time.
In this study, we have evaluated ozone-generating characteristics of the BDD electrodes related to the doping concentration of boron. In the experiment, morphology of surface was observing by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and structural-chemical properties of the synthesized diamond layers
were characterized by Raman spectroscopy. Conductivity, carrier concentration, and Hall mobility were determined by a Sheet resistance measurement and Hall effect measurement performed based on the van der Pauw method. The ozone concentration in the water was measured using an ozone colorimeter
with DPD reagent.
An Overview of Stability Analysis of Neural Networks with Time-Delays
Authors: Zhou Shajun , Zeng Hongbing , Wang Wei
Published: January 2020

Stability of neural networks (NNs) with time-delays (TDs) has become a popular research object. The Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional (LKF) method is an extremely effective technique for the stability research of NNs with TDs. Three primary issues, including ideas for constructing a reasonable
LKF method, investigation of methods to estimate the LKF's derivative and reviewing approaches for establishing the stability criteria are discussed in details. Finally, some challenges are proposed for the future research directions.
A Global Drought and Flood Catalogue from 1950 to 2016
Authors: He Xiaogang , Pan Ming , Wei Zhongwang , Wood Eric F. , Sheffield Justin
Published: January 2020

Hydrological extremes, in the form of droughts and floods, have impacts on a wide range of sectors including water availability, food security, and energy production. Given continuing large impacts of droughts and floods and the expectation for significant regional changes projected in the future, there is an urgent need to provide estimates of past events and their future risk, globally. However, current estimates of hydrological extremes are not robust and accurate enough, due to lack of long-term data records, standardized methods for event identification, geographical inconsistencies, and data uncertainties. To tackle these challenges, this article presents the development of the first Global Drought and Flood Catalogue (GDFC) for 1950–2016 by merging the latest in situ and remote sensing datasets with state-of-the-art land surface and hydrodynamic modeling to provide a continuous and consistent estimate of the terrestrial water cycle and its extremes. This GDFC also includes an unprecedented level of detailed analysis of drought and large-scale flood events using univariate and multivariate risk assessment frameworks, which incorporates regional spatial–temporal characteristics (i.e., duration, spatial extent, severity) and global hazard maps for different return periods. This Catalogue forms a basis for analyzing the changing risk of droughts and floods and can underscore national and international climate change assessments and provide a key reference for climate change studies and climate model evaluations. It also contributes to the growing interests in multivariate and compounding risk analysis.
Response of Arctic Freshwater to the Arctic Oscillation in Coupled Climate Models
Authors: Cornish Sam B. , Kostov Yavor , Johnson Helen L. , Lique Camille
Published: January 2020

The freshwater content (FWC) of the Arctic Ocean is intimately linked to the stratification—a physical characteristic of the Arctic Ocean with wide relevance for climate and biology. Here, we explore the relationship between atmospheric circulation and Arctic FWC across 12 different control-run simulations from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project. Using multiple lagged regression, we seek to isolate the linear response of Arctic FWC to a step change in the strength of the Arctic Oscillation (AO) as well as the second and third orthogonal modes of SLP variability over the Arctic domain. There is broad agreement among models that a step change to a more anticyclonic AO leads to an increase in Arctic FWC, with ane-folding time scale of 5–10 yr. However, models differ widely in the degree to which a linear response to SLP variability can explain FWC changes. Although the mean states, time scales, and magnitudes of FWC variability may be broadly similar, the physical origins of variability are highly inconsistent among models. We perform a robustness test that incorporates a Monte Carlo approach to determine which response functions are most likely to represent causal, physical relationships within the models and which are artifacts of regression. Convolution with SLP reanalysis data shows that the four most robust response functions have some skill at reproducing observed accumulation of FWC during the late 1990s and 2000s, consistent with the idea that this change was largely wind driven.
Performance evaluation of a fully automated anti-Müllerian hormone immunoassay and multicentre study on the establishment of reference range in adult women
Authors: Yue Chao-Yan , Wu Yong , Duan Chao-Hui , Wei Jie , Zhang Di , Luo Xiao-Hong , Zhang Qian-Lan , Ying Chun-Mei
Published: January 2020

Aims

To evaluate the analytical performance of a fully automatic iFlash anti-Müllerian hormone immunoassay (YHLO Biotech) and establish age-specific reference range for anti-Müllerian hormone in Chinese women based on a multicentre population study.

Design and method

iFlash anti-Müllerian hormone assay was evaluated for sensitivity, imprecision, serial dilution for linearity, impact of sample type, storage and stability. Method comparison of iFlash anti-Müllerian hormone with Elecsys anti-Müllerian hormone was studied. Reference intervals in healthy females were established for iFlash anti-Müllerian hormone.

Results

The limit of blank and limit of detection were below 0.001 ng/mL and 0.02 ng/mL, respectively. Assay sensitivity defined as limit of quantitation was 0.08 ng/mL. The assay imprecision was similar at low and high concentration being 3.1% and 3.2%, respectively. The linearity was observed to be between 0.02 ng/mL and 27.22 ng/mL. The stability of AMH was most at −80°C and up to seven days at 4°C, −20°C. No significant difference was observed for anti-Müllerian hormone among different sample types. An excellent agreement of anti-Müllerian hormone concentration was found in 180 samples analysed by iFlash and Roche; the correlation coefficient was 0.975 and regression slope of 1.009. The AMH reference intervals for Chinese women aged between the ages of 20 and 49 years with five-year intervals were 1.20–10.21 ng/mL, 1.14–9.17 ng/mL, 0.55–8.18 ng/mL, 0.25–7.02 ng/mL, 0.07–4.59 ng/mL and 0.01–2.11 ng/mL, respectively (1 ng/mL = 7.14 pmol/L).

Conclusion

The fully automated iFlash anti-Müllerian hormone immunoassay demonstrates excellent analytical performance. Consequently, the availability of iFlash anti-Müllerian hormone assay will represent a robust, fast, sensitive and precise immunoassay for the determination of anti-Müllerian hormone concentration.
A direct comparison of patient-based real-time quality control techniques: The importance of the analyte distribution
Authors: Smith Joel D , Badrick Tony , Bowling Francis
Published: January 2020

Background

Patient-based real-time quality control (PBRTQC) techniques have been described in clinical chemistry for over 50 years. PBRTQC has a number of advantages over traditional quality control including commutability, cost and the opportunity for real-time monitoring. However, there are few systematic investigations assessing how different PBRTQC techniques perform head-to-head.

Methods

In this study, we compare moving averages with and without truncation and moving medians. For analytes with skewed distributions such as alanine aminotransferase and creatinine, we also investigate the effect of Box–Cox transformation of the data. We assess the ability of each technique to detect simulated analytical bias in real patient data for multiple analytes and to retrospectively detect a real analytical shift in a creatinine and urea assay.

Results

For analytes with symmetrical distributions, we show that error detection is similar for a moving average with and without four standard deviation truncation limits and for a moving median. In contrast to analytes with symmetrically distributed results, moving averages perform poorly for right skewed distributions such as alanine aminotransferase and creatinine and function only with a tight upper truncation limit. Box–Cox transformation of the data both improves the performance of moving averages and allows all data points to be used. This was also confirmed for retrospective detection of a real analytical shift in creatinine and urea.

Conclusions

Our study highlights the importance of careful assessment of the distribution of patient results for each analyte in a PBRTQC program with the optimal approaches dependent on whether the patient result distribution is symmetrical or skewed.