bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants for choosing and adhering to active surveillance for localised prostate cancer: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Bergengren Oskar , Garmo Hans , Bratt Ola , Holmberg Lars , Johansson Eva , Bill-Axelson Anna
Published: December 2019

Objective

Knowledge about factors influencing choice of and adherence to active surveillance (AS) for prostate cancer (PC) is scarce. We aim to identify which factors most affected choosing and adhering to AS and to quantify their relative importance.

Design, setting and participants

In 2015, we sent a questionnaire to all Swedish men aged ≤70 years registered in the National Prostate Cancer Register of Sweden who were diagnosed in 2008 with low-risk PC and had undergone prostatectomy, radiotherapy or started on AS.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

Logistic regression was used to calculate ORs with 95% CIs for factors potentially affecting choice and adherence to AS.

Results

1288 out of 1720 men (75%) responded, 451 (35%) chose AS and 837 (65%) underwent curative treatment. Of those starting on AS, 238 (53%) diverted to treatment within 7 years. Most men (83%) choose AS because ‘My doctor recommended AS’. Factors associated with choosing AS over treatment were older age (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.29 to 2.54), a Charlson Comorbidity Index >2 (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.06 to 2.13), being unaccompanied when notified of the cancer diagnosis (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.89). Men with a higher prostate-specific antigen (PSA) at the time of diagnosis were less likely to adhere to AS (OR 0.26, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.63). The reason for having treatment after initial AS was ‘the PSA level was rising’ in 55% and biopsy findings in 36%.

Conclusions

A doctor’s recommendation strongly affects which treatment is chosen for men with low-risk PC. Rising PSA values were the main factor for initiating treatment for men on AS. These findings need be considered by healthcare providers who wish to increase the uptake of and adherence to AS.
Exploring the experiences and perspectives of substitute decision-makers involved in decisions about deceased organ donation: a qualitative study protocol
Authors: Crawshaw Jacob , Presseau Justin , van Allen Zack , Pinheiro Carvalho Livia , Jordison Kim , English Shane , Fergusson Dean A , Lauzier Francois , Turgeon Alexis F , Sarti Aimee J , Martin Claudio , D'Aragon Frédérick , Li Alvin Ho-ting , Knoll Greg , Ball Ian , Brehaut Jamie , Burns Karen E A , Fortin Marie-Chantal , Weiss Matthew , Meade Maureen , Marsolais Pierre , Shemie Sam , Zaabat Sanabelle , Dhanani Sonny , Kitto Simon C , Chassé Michaël
Published: December 2019

Introduction

In Canada, deceased organ donation provides over 80% of transplanted organs. At the time of death, families, friends or others assume responsibility as substitute decision-makers (SDMs) to consent to organ donation. Despite their central role in this process, little is known about what barriers, enablers and beliefs influence decision-making among SDMs. This study aims to explore the experiences and perspectives of SDMs involved in making decisions around the withdrawal of life-sustaining therapies, end-of-life care and deceased organ donation.

Methods and analysis

SDMs of 60 patients admitted to intensive care units will be enrolled for this study. Ten hospitals across five provinces in Canada in a prospective multicentre qualitative cohort study. We will conduct semistructured telephone interviews in English or French with SDMs between 6 and 8 weeks after the patient’s death. Our sampling frame will stratify SDMs into three groups: SDMs who were not approached for organ donation; SDMs who were approached and consented to donate and SDMs who were approached but did not consent to donate. We will use two complementary theoretical frameworks—the Common-Sense Self-Regulation Model and the Theoretical Domains Framework— to inform our interview guide. Interview data will be analysed using deductive directed content analysis and inductive thematic analysis.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal Research Ethics Board. The findings from this study will help identify key factors affecting substitute decision-making in deceased organ donation, reasons for non-consent and barriers to achieve congruency between SDM and patient wishes. Ultimately, these data will contribute to the development and evaluation of tools and training for healthcare providers to support SDMs in making decisions about organ donation.

Trial registration number

NCT03850847.
The impact of microbial keratitis on quality of life in Uganda
Authors: Arunga Simon , Wiafe Geoffrey , Habtamu Esmael , Onyango John , Gichuhi Stephen , Leck Astrid , Macleod David , Hu Victor , Burton Matthew
Published: December 2019

Background

Microbial keratitis (MK) is a frequent cause of sight loss in sub-Saharan Africa. However, no studies have formally measured its impact on quality of life (QoL) in this context.

Methods

As part of a nested case–control design for risk factors of MK, we recruited patients presenting with MK at two eye units in Southern Uganda between December 2016 and March 2018 and unaffected individuals, individually matched for sex, age and location. QoL was measured using WHO Health-Related and Vision-Related QoL tools (at presentation and 3 months after start of treatment in cases). Mean QoL scores for both groups were compared. Factors associated with QoL among the cases were analysed in a linear regression model.

Results

215 case-controls pairs were enrolled. The presentation QoL scores for the cases ranged from 20 to 65 points. The lowest QoL was visual symptom domain; mean 20.7 (95% CI 18.8 to 22.7) and the highest was psychosocial domain; mean 65.6 (95% CI 62.5 to 68.8). At 3 months, QoL scores for the patients ranged from 80 to 90 points while scores for the controls ranged from 90 to 100. The mean QoL scores of the cases were lower than controls across all domains. Determinants of QoL among the cases at 3 months included visual acuity at 3 months and history of eye loss.

Conclusion

MK severely reduces QoL in the acute phase. With treatment and healing, QoL subsequently improves. Despite this improvement, QoL of someone affected by MK (even with normal vision) remains lower than unaffected controls.
Canine behaviour problems in Brazil: a review of 180 referral cases
Authors: Ramos Daniela , Reche‐Junior Archivaldo , Henzel Marcelo , Mills Daniel S
Published: December 2019

Background

Behavioural case loads may vary due to cultural differences, and so it is important to know how these differ with geography.

Methods

One hundred and eighty dog cases referred to a veterinary behaviourist in São Paulo (Brazil) during the period of 2008–2014 are described.

Results

Aggression against people was the most common behavioural complaint (22.2 per cent of the cases), followed by apparent fears and phobias (13.3 per cent). Forms of aggression against other dogs (12.2 per cent) and repetitive behaviours (11.1 per cent) were third and fourth most frequent, respectively. Female and male patients were equally reported (47.6 and 52.4 per cent, respectively). These results differ slightly from the findings of other international studies, in which aggression was the main behavioural complaint with fears and phobias less common.

Conclusion

Regional demographic reviews of the case loads of veterinary behaviour specialists help the profession recognise the problems of most concern to pet owners in a given area and thus local priorities, as well as opening up the potential to generate new hypotheses relating to the reasons for regional differences.
Self similar collapse and the Raychaudhuri equation
Authors: Choudhury Shibendu Gupta , Chakrabarti Soumya , Dasgupta Ananda , Banerjee Narayan
Published: December 2019

The role of the Raychaudhuri equation in studying gravitational collapse is discussed. A self-similar distribution of a scalar field along with an imperfect fluid in a conformally flat spacetime is considered for the purpose. The general focusing condition is found out and verified against the available exact solutions. The connection between the Raychaudhuri equation and the critical phenomena is also explored.
Flow behavior and microstructure evolution of PM Ti-5553 alloy during 0.1 s−1 hot deformation
Authors: Zhao Qinyang , Yang Fei , Torrens Rob , Bolzoni Leandro
Published: December 2019

The hot deformation behavior of powder metallurgy Ti-5Al-5V-5Mo-3Cr (Ti-5553) alloy was investigated by isothermal compression test at the wide temperature range of [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text]C, under an intermediate strain rate of 0.1 s[Formula: see text], and with the sample deformation degree of 30%, 50% and 70%. Results suggested that the flow stress was very sensitive to the deformation variables and it decreased with increasing the deformation temperature. Flow localization occurred when the temperature was lower than [Formula: see text]C, accompanied by the dynamic morphology changing of [Formula: see text] phase. Dynamic recovery (DRV) features appeared when the temperature was over [Formula: see text]C, while dynamic recrystallization (DRX) took a more important role than DRV for the alloy compressed at [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text]C.
Effect of Ti element on the microstructure and properties of high chromium surfacing layer
Authors: Pu Juan , Rao Jiawei , Shen Yifeng , Liu Chang , Zhang Lei , Wang Yuxin
Published: December 2019

The self-made high chromium content flux-cored wire was used to surfacing low carbon steel under self-protection. The effect of Ti contents on the microstructure, hardness and wear resistance of surfacing layer was investigated. The results showed that the surfacing layer was mainly composed of martensite, [Formula: see text] carbide and residual austenite. As Ti content in surfacing layer increased, the shape of carbides in surfacing layer varied from lath to granular and the amount of carbides was gradually increased. The hardness of the surfacing layer was slightly increased while the wear resistance was significantly enhanced. The improved wear property could be ascribed to the increasing Ti content and the corresponding increasing amount of Ti (C, N). Ti (C, N) takes the role of heterogenous nucleation particles in the surfacing layer and promotes the formation of fine-grained hard phase (e.g., [Formula: see text] carbide). With the increase of the density of fine-grained hard phase in the surfacing layer, the resistance of cutting motion during abrasive wear test also increased, resulting in a decreased wear loss and significantly enhanced wear performance.
Selective laser melting Fe and Fe-35Mn for biodegradable implants
Authors: Carluccio Danilo , Bermingham Michael , Dargusch M. S. , Demir Ali Gökhan , Caprio Leonardo , Previtali Barbara
Published: December 2019

Fe and Fe-based alloys are great candidates for biodegradable metal implants. In order to achieve high density pure Fe and Fe-35Mn structures, the correct implementation of process strategies and parameters needs to be studied to achieve high density parts. In this study, pure Fe and Fe-35Mn were successfully processed via SLM with a relative density over 99.5%. The lower melting temperature of Fe-35Mn introduced porosity, resulting in a lower processability compared to the pure Fe. In terms of process optimization, most of the typical quality indicators (roughness, density and apparent density) could be correlated to the energy density.
Z-scan theoretical model for simultaneous n- and (n+1)-photon absorption
Authors: Kessi Ferhat , Hamadouche Naima
Published: December 2019

We present a theoretical analysis of multi-photon absorption processes. We find an approximate closed-form expression of the normalized transmittance for a thin sample with two successive nonlinear absorption processes at a time ([Formula: see text]- and [Formula: see text]-photon absorption) in the presence of residual linear absorption. Our approach allows for simultaneous identification and evaluation of the nonlinear absorption coefficients and Rayleigh lengths of the incident elliptic Gaussian beam by fitting the open [Formula: see text]-scan traces.
Geohazards in coastal areas near the northernmost Sagami Trough, central Japan: review of neotectonic activity in onshore and offshore areas of the Izu island arc collision–subduction zone
Authors: Mori S. , Ogawa Y.
Published: December 2019

The northernmost coast of Sagami Bay, central Japan, is situated in the eastern part of the Izu island arc collision–subduction zone where the Philippine Sea Plate has been subducted beneath the Eurasian Plate or North American Plate since the middle Miocene. It is an area at high risk of geological disaster because it is a developed suburban area located just 50–80 km SW of the megalopolis of Tokyo. We have used our own onshore and offshore neotectonic field data to create a summary of the geological and topographical information related to geohazards over various spatial and temporal ranges, and we provide additional information from archaeological and historical disaster records. The geological hazards and disasters are reviewed on a logarithmic timescale from 10 Ma to modern times. We examine this information with respect to the Great Kanto earthquakes that have repeatedly affected the present area, as they provide a typical example of hazard history on a collision–subduction zone that is useful not only for assessing the local risk but also for providing generic risk. The results can assist in preparedness for various geological hazards, particularly earthquakes, tsunamis, and crustal movements such as uplift and subsidence, as well as active faults and folds.
Structure and Mechanism of P-Type ATPase Ion Pumps
Authors: Dyla Mateusz , Kjærgaard Magnus , Poulsen Hanne , Nissen Poul
Published: December 2019

P-type ATPases are found in all kingdoms of life and constitute a wide range of cation transporters, primarily for H+, Na+, K+, Ca2+, and transition metal ions such as Cu(I), Zn(II), and Cd(II). They have been studied through a wide range of techniques, and research has gained very significant insight on their transport mechanism and regulation. Here, we review the structure, function, and dynamics of P2-ATPases including Ca2+-ATPases and Na,K-ATPase. We highlight mechanisms of functional transitions that are associated with ion exchange on either side of the membrane and how the functional cycle is regulated by interaction partners, autoregulatory domains, and off-cycle states. Finally, we discuss future perspectives based on emerging techniques and insights.
The Development of Social Categorization
Authors: Rhodes Marjorie , Baron Andrew
Published: December 2019

Social categorization is a universal mechanism for making sense of a vast social world with roots in perceptual, conceptual, and social systems. These systems emerge strikingly early in life and undergo important developmental changes across childhood. The development of social categorization entails identifying which ways of classifying people are culturally meaningful, how these categories might be used to predict, explain, and evaluate the behavior of other people, and how one's own identity relates to these systems of categorization and representation. Social categorization can help children simplify and understand their social environment but has detrimental consequences in the forms of stereotyping, prejudice, and discrimination. Thus, understanding how social categorization develops is a central problem for the cognitive, social, and developmental sciences. This review details the multiple developmental processes that underlie this core psychological capacity.
Eleanor Maccoby: An Abridged Memoir
Authors: Maccoby Eleanor
Published: December 2019

Editor's Note

Eleanor Maccoby wrote a book-length memoir of her life at age 99, two years before her death. It is a fascinating and richly detailed account of a life well lived, filled with reminiscences and perspectives that are written with Eleanor's characteristic honesty and humor. The excerpts in this article focus on Eleanor's professional career, starting when she and her husband, Nathan (“Mac”) Maccoby, moved to Washington, DC, during World War II. We invite interested readers to read the full memoir for insights into Eleanor's upbringing and personal life ( https://www.annualreviews.org/eleanormaccoby ).
Increased pulmonary blood volume variation in patients with heart failure compared to healthy controls: a noninvasive, quantitative measure of heart failure
Authors: Al-Mashat Mariam , Jögi Jonas , Carlsson Marcus , Borgquist Rasmus , Ostenfeld Ellen , Magnusson Martin , Bachus Erasmus , Rådegran Göran , Arheden Håkan , Kanski Mikael
Published: December 2019

Variation of the blood content of the pulmonary vascular bed during a heartbeat can be quantified by pulmonary blood volume variation (PBVV) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The aim was to evaluate whether PBVV differs in patients with heart failure compared with healthy controls and investigate the mechanisms behind the PBVV. Forty-six patients and 10 controls underwent MRI. PBVV was calculated from blood flow measurements in the main pulmonary artery and a pulmonary vein, defined as the maximum difference in cumulative PBV over one heartbeat. PBVV was indexed to stroke volume (SV) in the main pulmonary artery (PBVVSV). Patients displayed higher PBVVSV than controls (58 ± 14 vs. 43 ± 7%, P < 0.001). The change in PBVVSV could be explained by left ventricular (LV) longitudinal contribution to SV ( R2 = 0.15, P = 0.02) and the phase shift between in- and outflow ( R2 = 0.31, P < 0.001) in patients. Both variables contributed to the multiple regression analysis model and predicted PBVVSV ( R2 = 0.38); however, the phase shift alone explained ~30% of the variation in PBVVSV. No correlation was found between PBVVSV and large vessel area. In conclusion, PBVVSV was higher in patients compared with controls. Approximately 40% of the variation of PBVVSV in patients can be explained by the LV longitudinal contribution to SV and the phase shift between pulmonary in- and outflow, where the phase shift alone accounts for ~30%. The remaining variation (60–70%) most likely occurs on a small vessel level. Future studies are needed to show the clinical added value of PBVVSV compared with right-heart catheterization.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study shows that the pulmonary blood volume variation indexed to the stroke volume is higher in patients with heart failure compared with controls. The mechanisms behind this are lack of systolic suction from the left ventricular atrioventricular plane descent and increased phase shift between the in- and outflow to the pulmonary circulation (~40%), where the phase shift alone accounts for ~30%. The remaining variation (60–70%) is suggested to occur on a small vessel level.
Development of a Novel Whey Date Beverage Fermented with Kefir Grains Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: M’hir Sana , Rtibi Kais , Mejri Asma , Ziadi Manel , Aloui Hajer , Hamdi Moktar , Ayed Lamia
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study was to develop a novel kefir beverage using date syrup, whey permeate, and whey. The levels of the kefir grain inoculum (2–5% w/v), fruit syrup (10–50% w/v), and whey permeate (0–5% w/v) on pH, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, lactic acid bacteria and yeast counts, and overall acceptability were investigated using central composite design. The use of response surface methodology allowed us to obtain a formulation with acceptable organoleptic properties and high antioxidant activities. The obtained beverages had total phenolic content, % DPPH scavenging activity, and overall acceptability ranging from 24 to 74 mg GAE/mL, from 74.80 to 91.37 mg GAE/mL, and from 3.50 to 6 mg GAE/mL (based on a 1 to 9 preference scale), respectively. Date syrup of 36.76% (w/v), whey permeates of 2.99%, and kefir grains inoculum size of 2.08% were the optimized process conditions achieved.
Highly Efficient Photocatalysis by Zinc Oxide-Reduced Graphene Oxide (ZnO-rGO) Composite Synthesized via One-Pot Room-Temperature Chemical Deposition Method
Authors: Ngaloy Roselle T. , Fontanilla Aixeen M. , Soriano Ma. S. Rebecca , Pascua Chelo S. , Matsushita Yoshitaka , Agulo Ian Jasper A.
Published: December 2019

We synthesized zinc oxide-reduced graphene oxide (ZnO-rGO) composites using a one-pot chemical deposition method at room temperature. Zinc powder and graphene oxide (GO) of different mass ratios (1 : 1, 1 : 2, 1 : 5, 1 : 10, and 1 : 20 GO to Zn) were used as precursors in a mildly alkaline solution. UV-Vis spectroscopy was used to study the photocatalytic efficiency of the samples through the photodegradation of methylene blue (MB). UV-Vis measurements show the fast decomposition of methylene blue under UV light illumination with the best degradation efficiency of 97.7% within one hour, achieved with sample ZG2 (1 GO : 2 Zn mass ratio). The corresponding degradation rate was kZG2 = 0.1253 min−1, which is at least 5.5 times better than other existing works using hydrothermal methods. We argue that the excellent photodegradation of MB by ZG2 is due to the efficient charge separation brought about by the electronic interaction of the rGO with the ZnO and the formation of a Zn-O-C bond, as supported by XRD and Raman spectroscopy measurements.
Effect of Silica Aerogel Additive on Mechanical Properties of the Sugar Palm Fiber-Reinforced Polyester Composites
Authors: Shahroze R. M. , Ishak M. R. , Sapuan S. M. , Leman Z. , Chandrasekar M. , Asim M.
Published: December 2019

Silica aerogel (SA) was used as fillers in the sugar palm/polyester composite (SPF/PE). Their influence on tensile, flexural, and impact properties of the composite was determined by varying the additive concentration from 1-5 wt% in the resin. The findings from the study indicate that both the strength and modulus of SPF/PE improved significantly by adding SA. Maximum tensile, flexural, and impact strength occurred at an optimum filler concentration of 2-3 wt%. Similarly, the highest tensile and flexural modulus was achieved with 5 wt% and 2 wt%, respectively. The microstructure of SA-infused composites revealed less fiber pullout/slippage compared to the composites without filler.
Optimization on Nonlinear Dynamics of Gear Rattle in Automotive Transmission System
Authors: Liang Mingxuan , Wang Ying , Zhao Tian
Published: December 2019

Recently, gear rattle noise is gradually becoming a nonignorable issue involving comfortableness in automotive transmission for a car. Generally, the rattle noise is influenced by nonlinear dynamic of multiple pairs of idler gears in the multistage gear transmission system. Optimization methods based on nonlinear rattle dynamic analysis are worthy of further study to control the noise. In this research, an equivalent rattle dynamic model of the idler gear is proposed, and the nonlinear rattle dynamic responses are solved based on the integral method. The effect laws of key factors on nonlinear dynamic performance are investigated by using a bifurcation diagram, spectrum map, and Poincaré map. Finally, the gear backlash, equivalent mass, and rotational speed are optimized based on Kriging surrogate model (KSM) and differential evolution (DE) algorithm by taking the minimization of the maximum rattle noise as the optimal object. It can be concluded that the rattle dynamics of the idler gear show rich nonlinear characteristics as the parameters change. The proposed method can not only reduce the sound pressure level of rattle noise but also provide a viable path and reference value for the low‐noise design of the gear transmission system.
Deformation Caused by Dynamic Load and Support Requirements in a Deep Gob-Side Entry Rock Mass
Authors: Zhang Yandong , Yang Yongjie , Zhuge Changhua
Published: December 2019

Gob-side entries in deep coal mines can be subjected to dynamic loading when driving along the goaf. The effects of this dynamic loading and improved ground support requirements are investigated in the Gaojiabao Coal Mine, China. Numerical modeling is first used to simulate the deformation characteristics of rock surrounding the gob-side entry under dynamic load with the original support design. Dynamic loading in this scenario causes continual deterioration in rock properties, and deformation accumulates as the number of dynamic loads increases. Therefore, the overall strength and rigidity of the bolt support design need improvement, especially in terms of using yielding bolts that assist in releasing unnecessary support loads. The deformation characteristics of the rock surrounding the gob-side entry are combined with the concept of coupled pressure support to provide an optimized bolt support design. The support effects of the optimized design are then also numerically simulated and compared with the original support design. Deformation in the optimized design is significantly reduced, and roadway control is improved. Finally, the optimized design is applied and measured in a gob-side entry excavation. The field test results show that the potential for loosening, deformation, and failure of the surrounding rock is effectively controlled.
Group A Streptococcal Toxic Shock-Like Syndrome in a Male Presenting as Primary Peritonitis: A Case Report and a Review in Japan
Authors: Sakuraba Shunsuke , Ueda Shuhei , Tokuda Satoshi , Ito Tomoaki , Kushida Tomoyuki , Sakurada Mutsumi , Maekawa Hiroshi , Sato Koichi
Published: December 2019

Background. Streptococcal toxic shock-like syndrome (TSLS) is a severe infection caused by group A hemolytic streptococcus. It is clinically characterized by rapidly progressive septic shock and multiple organ failure within just a few hours. TSLS presenting as primary peritonitis is rare, especially in a male. Herein, we report a case of TSLS in a male presenting with primary peritonitis, with a review of 25 cases in Japan. Case Presentation. A 51-year-old male was referred to our hospital with abdominal pain and hypotension. We made a preoperative diagnosis of peritonitis with septic shock and performed an emergency operation. Intraoperative findings indicated no marked origin of the peritonitis. Preoperative blood culture showed the presence of group A hemolytic streptococcus. The patient required intensive care involving artificial respiration, abdominal drainage and cytokine absorption therapy, and was discharged on postoperative day 25. Conclusion. TSLS in a male presenting as primary peritonitis is rare. Although this condition is a severe infection, it can be treated by multimodal therapy.
Comparison of the Immunogenicity and Safety of Two Pediatric TBE Vaccines Based on the Far Eastern and European Virus Subtypes
Authors: Vorovitch Mikhail F. , Maikova Galina B. , Chernokhaeva Liubov L. , Romanenko Victor V. , Karganova Galina G. , Ishmukhametov Aydar A.
Published: December 2019

Up to 10,000 cases of tick-borne encephalitis are registered annually, 20% of which occur in children under 17 years of age. A comparison of the immunogenicity and safety between a new pediatric Tick-E-Vac vaccine based on the TBEV strain Sofjin and FSME-IMMUN Junior vaccine was performed in the Sverdlovsk region. The vaccine strains differ from strains of the Siberian subtype of TBEV that dominates in the region. The study was performed on 163 children aged 1 to 15, who received one of the vaccines according to either a conventional or rapid vaccination schedule. Immunogenicity was assessed based on the seroprotection rates and titers of virus-neutralizing antibodies. There were no significant differences in either the immunogenicity or reactogenicity of the pediatric vaccines based on strains of the Far Eastern or European subtypes of TBEV. Under both vaccination schedules, 30 days after the second injection, seroprotection rates were 100% for Tick-E-Vac and greater than 95% for FSME-IMMUN Junior, while the geometric mean titer of TBEV-neutralizing antibodies was at least 2,4 log10(1 : 250) for either vaccine. Fourteen days after the second injection according to the rapid schedule, seroprotection rates were significantly lower, ranging from 50% to 63% regardless of the vaccine used. The observed adverse reactions were mild or moderate for both vaccines under both vaccination schedules, with total adverse event rates of less than 25%. Reactogenicity was not associated with the gender or age of the recipients. There were no statistically significant differences in the incidence of adverse reactions between the group of subjects who were baseline seronegative or seropositive. However, 14 days after the second vaccine injection according to the rapid schedule, a statistically significant difference in nAbs titers was identified between groups of children with and without reported reactions.
Postpartum Seizure and Subarachnoid Haemorrhage Secondary to Moyamoya Disease
Authors: Varanasi L. Chitra , Brown James , Athayde Neil
Published: December 2019

Postpartum seizures secondary to subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) are rare. The incidence of pregnancy-related SAH is increasing and is highest during the delivery and postpartum periods. While there have been cases in the literature of SAH occurring postpartum, very few are associated with Moyamoya disease. We present a rare case of a young woman diagnosed with Moyamoya disease following immediate postpartum seizures secondary to a SAH. She was medically managed and discharged without any neurological deficits. This case highlights how seizures and SAH may develop in the immediate postpartum period in an otherwise healthy young woman.
Integrated Guidance and Control Design of Rolling‐Guided Projectile Based on Adaptive Fuzzy Control with Multiple Constraints
Authors: Jiang Shang , Tian Fuqing , Sun Shiyan
Published: December 2019

In the terminal guidance section of large caliber naval gun‐guided projectile while striking nearshore maneuvering target, an integrated guidance and control (IGC) method based on an adaptive fuzzy and block dynamic surface sliding mode (AFCBDSM) was proposed with multiple constraints, including the impact angle, control limitations, and limited measurement of the line of sight (LOS) angle rate. The strict feedback cascade model of rolling‐guided projectile IGC in space was constructed, and the extended state observer (ESO) was used to estimate the LOS angle rate and uncertain disturbances inside and outside the system, such as target maneuvering, model errors, and wind. A nonsingular terminal sliding mode (NTSM) was designed to zero the LOS angle tracking errors and LOS angle rate in finite time, with the adaptive exponential reaching law. The cascade system was effectively stabilized by the block dynamic surface sliding mode, which prevented differential explosions. To compensate for the saturated nonlinearity of canard control constraints, an adaptive Nussbaum gain function was adopted. The switching chatter of the block dynamic surface sliding mode was reduced through adaptive fuzzy control. Proven by Lyapunov theory, the LOS angle tracking error and LOS angle rate were convergent in finite time, the closed‐loop system was uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB), and the system states could be made arbitrarily small at the steady state. Hardware‐in‐the‐loop simulation (HILS) experiments showed that the AFCBDSM provided the guided projectile with good guidance performance while striking targets with different maneuvering forms.
Optimization of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume) Essential Oil Extraction: Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Effects
Authors: Kallel Imen , Hadrich Bilel , Gargouri Bochra , Chaabane Amina , Lassoued Saloua , Gdoura Radhouane , Bayoudh Ahmed , Ben Messaoud Ezeddine
Published: December 2019

Having high cytotoxicity cell line effect, Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume essential oil offers a novel approach to the chemotherapy treatment. In order to enhance its quantity/purity, the experimental conditions to produce essential oil should be more exploited. Steam distillation was used to isolate essential oil, and its conditions’ optimization was carried out with the surface-response methodology. The maximum amount (2.6 g/100 g d.b.) was obtained under minimum condensation water flow (0.8 mL/min), a sample size of 6.5 cm, a saline solution concentration of 262.5 g/L, and five washings. The produced essential oil contains >77% of polyphenols. In vitro cytotoxicity was examined using an MTT assay against HeLa and Raji cell lines. The essential oil’s capability to inhibit the proliferation of HeLa and Raji cell lines was studied under some conditions presenting IC50 values of 0.13 and 0.57 μg/mL, respectively. The essential oil was evaluated for its potential as an antioxidant by using in vitro models, such as phosphomolybdenum, DPPH, and H2O2 methods, in comparison with the synthetic antioxidant BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) as positive controls. The ammonium phosphomolybdate potency in the present study is of the order of 108.75 ± 32.63 mg of essential oil/equivalent to 1 mg of vitamin C in terms of antioxidant power, and the antioxidant activity of DPPH-H2O2 was 21.3% and 55.2%, respectively. The Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume essential oil (CEO) covers important antioxidant and antiproliferative effects. This can be attributed to the presence of few minor and major phenolic compounds.
Coracoclavicular Double-Button Fixation of Displaced Lateral Clavicular Fracture in a Patient without Coracoid Process
Authors: Brandariz Rodrigo Nicolás , Bruchmann Maria Guillermina , De Cicco Franco Luis , Rossi Luciano Andres , Tanoira Ignacio , Ranalletta Maximiliano
Published: December 2019

Background. Displaced distal clavicular fractures are generally operated on because of the high nonunion rate after nonoperative treatment. Several surgical techniques have been developed to reduce the nonunion rate and improve functional outcomes. One of them is closed reduction and minimally invasive coracoclavicular double-button fixation, which requires the integrity of the coracoid process to be performed. Case Summary. We present a 35-year-old male patient who had been successfully subjected to a modified Latarjet procedure for glenohumeral instability with bony defect treatment, and 7 months later suffered a distal clavicle fracture in his ipsilateral shoulder. With a CT scan, we analyzed the coracoid remnant size (7 mm), and we consider it enough to perform a minimally invasive double-button technique, using this remnant as a distal fixation. Postoperative and Follow-Up. Radiographic and clinical fracture union occurred 10 weeks after the procedure. The patient returned to sports at the same level he had before surgery and achieved full strength and range of motion. Conclusion. Closed reduction and minimally invasive double-button fixation of displaced distal clavicular fractures is a safe, reproducible, and versatile technique, which can even be performed without an intact coracoid process.
Effect of Electroacupuncture on Reuptake of Serotonin via miRNA-16 Expression in a Rat Model of Depression
Authors: Zhao Jun , Tian Huiling , Song Hongtao , Wang Xu , Luo Tong , Ai Liya , Fang Yumin , Zhao Jianghao , Chao-ke-tu Saiyin , Li Zhigang
Published: December 2019

The current study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of electroacupuncture (EA) treatment applied to Bai hui (GV20) and Yin tang (GV29) acupoints (1 mA, 2 Hz, continuous wave, 20 minutes) for 28 days in a rat model of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) on reuptake of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)) and miRNA-16 levels in the hippocampus and serum. Rats were housed in individual cages, and CUMS was used to establish a rat model of depression. After EA treatment for 4 weeks, behavioral changes and indices including 5-HT transporter (SERT), 5-HT, and miRNA-16 levels in the hippocampus and serum were examined. The EA treatment significantly improved base levels of sucrose preference and exploratory behavior and significantly decreased SERT protein and mRNA expression in the hippocampus of depressed rats. Significantly increased 5-HT levels were observed, and miRNA-16 levels were significantly decreased in the hippocampus and serum of depressed rats. In conclusion, the antidepressant effects of EA treatment may be affected via inhibition of 5-HT reuptake, upregulation of 5-HT levels, and inhibition of miRNA-16 expression in the hippocampus and serum.
Virulence Factors of Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile Linked to Recurrent Infections
Authors: Tijerina-Rodríguez Laura , Villarreal-Treviño Licet , Morfín-Otero Rayo , Camacho-Ortíz Adrián , Garza-González E.
Published: December 2019

From 20 to 30% of Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile infection (CDI), patients might develop recurrence of the infection (RCDI) and, after the first recurrence, the risk of further episodes increases up to 60%. Several bacterial virulence factors have been associated with RCDI, including the elevated production of toxins A and B, the presence of a binary toxin CDT, and mutations in the negative regulator of toxin expression, tcdC. Additional factors have shown to regulate toxin production and virulence in C. difficile in RCDI, including the accessory-gene regulator agr, which acts as a positive switch for toxin transcription. Furthermore, adhesion and motility-associated factors, such as Cwp84, SlpA, and flagella, have shown to increase the adhesion efficiency to host epithelia, cell internalization, and the formation of biofilm. Finally, biofilm confers to C. difficile protection from antibiotics and acts as a reservoir for spores that allow the persistence of the infection in the host. In this review, we describe the key virulence factors of C. difficile that have been associated with recurrent infections.
Statistical Optimization of Culture Conditions for Protein Production by a Newly Isolated Morchella fluvialis
Authors: Rahgo Zahra , Samadlouie Hamid reza , Mojerlou Shideh , Jahanbin Kambiz
Published: December 2019

Morchella fungi are considered a good source of protein. The ITS region was used to identify Morchella isolated in the northern region of Iran. The isolated fungus was very similar to Morchella fluvialis. M. fluvialis was first isolated in Iran. Dried biomass of M. fluvialis contained 9% lipids and 50% polysaccharides. Fatty acid profiles of lipids of M. fluvialis are mainly made up of linoleic acid (C18:2) (62%), followed by palmitic acid (C16:0) (12%). Testosterone (TS) was also detected (0.732 ng/dry weight biomass (DWB)) in the hormone profile of this new isolated species. Then, various protein and carbon sources as variable factors were applied to identify the key substrates, which stimulated protein production using the one-factor-at-a-time method. Key substrates (glucose and soybean) were statistically analyzed to determine the optimum content of the protein and DWB accumulation using response surface methods. The highest protein content (38% DWB) was obtained in the medium containing 80 g/l glucose and 40 g/l soybean powder. Total nutritionally indispensable amino acids and conditionally indispensable amino acids constitute 55.7% crude protein. That is to say, these adequate quantities of essential amino acids in the protein of M. fluvialis make it a good and promising source of essential amino acids for human diet.
Resumption of Autophagy by Ubisol-Q10 in Presenilin-1 Mutated Fibroblasts and Transgenic AD Mice: Implications for Inhibition of Senescence and Neuroprotection
Authors: Vegh Caleb , Pupulin Simon , Wear Darcy , Culmone Lauren , Huggard Rachel , Ma Dennis , Pandey Siyaram
Published: December 2019

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of dementia and is associated with loss of memory, amyloid-beta plaque buildup, and neurofibrillary tangles. These features might be a result of neuronal cell death in the cerebral cortex and hippocampal regions of the brain. AD pathologies can be attributed to a variety of biochemical consequences including mitochondrial dysfunction, increased oxidative stress, and autophagy inhibition. Unfortunately, current therapeutics are limited only to symptomatic relief and do not halt the progression of neurodegeneration. Previous in vitro experiments have shown that a water-soluble formulation of coenzyme-Q10, Ubisol-Q10, can stabilize the mitochondria, prevent oxidative stress, and inhibit premature senescence in fibroblasts of AD patients. Since autophagy plays a critical role in maintenance and survival of neurons, we hypothesized that Ubisol-Q10 treatment could result in resumption of autophagy. Indeed, we observed induction of autophagy by Ubisol-Q10 treatment in AD fibroblasts as well as in the brains of transgenic AD mice. We found increased expression of autophagy-related genes beclin-1 and JNK1 following Ubisol-Q10 treatment of AD fibroblasts. These results were confirmed at the protein level by immunofluorescence and Western blotting. Interestingly, despite reduction of oxidative stress in cells due to Ubisol-Q10 treatment, autophagy inhibition leads to resumption of premature senescence in these PS-1 mutated fibroblasts indicating that autophagy is critical to prevent the senescence phenotype. Withdrawal of Ubisol-Q10 treatment also leads to the return of the senescence phenotype in AD fibroblasts indicating that constant supplementation of Ubisol-Q10 is required. Additionally, Ubisol-Q10 supplementation in the drinking water of double transgenic AD mice leads to increased expression of beclin-1 and JNK1 in the cortical region. Thus, the activation of autophagy by Ubisol-Q10 could be the mechanism for its ability to halt the progression of AD pathology in transgenic AD mice shown previously.
Socioeconomic Factors and Oral Health-Related Behaviours Associated with Dental Caries in Preschool Children from Central Italy (Province of Ascoli Piceno)
Authors: Nota Alessandro , Caruso Silvia , Cantile Tiziana , Gatto Roberto , Ingenito Aniello , Tecco Simona , Ferrazzano Gianmaria F.
Published: December 2019

Background. Dental caries is a serious oral health concern with high prevalence in preschool children. Aim. To assess the association among oral health-related behaviors, socioeconomic factors, and dental caries in Italian preschool children. Design. 513 preschool children from 3 to 6 years of age, enrolled in nursery schools in central Italy, represent the population of the present study. The children underwent dental clinical examination and were divided on the basis of their caries experience in the primary dentition (“Yes” or “No”). Nonparametric analysis and univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were applied to evaluate the contribution of oral health-related behaviors and socioeconomic factors to the caries experience in the primary dentition. Results. 419 children were caries free, and 94 children had caries experience in the primary dentition, corresponding to the 18.4% of participants. Different oral health-related behaviors and socioeconomic factors resulted to be associated with caries development. In particular, the mother’s foreign nationality results in a strong predictive factor. Conclusions. The multivariate logistic model revealed factors significantly affecting caries experience in the primary dentition, which were the mother’s nationality, the number of dental visits in a year, and the personal impression by the mother.
An LTR Retrotransposon-Derived Long Noncoding RNA lncMER52A Promotes Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression by Binding p120-Catenin
Authors: Wu Yangjun , Zhao Yiming , Huan Lin , Zhao Jingjing , Zhou Yuqiang , Xu Linguo , Hu Zhixiang , Liu Yizhe , Chen Zhiao , Wang Lu , Huang Shenglin , He Xianghuo , Liang Linhui
Published: December 2019

Long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposons are a major class of transposable elements, accounting for 8.67% of the human genome. LTRs can serve as regulatory sequences and drive transcription of tissue or cancer-specific transcripts. However, the role of these LTR-activated transcripts, especially long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA), in cancer development remains largely unexplored. Here, we identified a novel lncRNA derived from MER52A retrotransposons (lncMER52A) that was exclusively expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCC patients with higher lncMER52A had advanced TNM stage, less differentiated tumors, and shorter overall survival. LncMER52A promoted invasion and metastasis of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, lncMER52A stabilized p120-catenin and triggered the activation of Rho GTPase downstream of p120-catenin. Furthermore, we found that chromatin accessibility was crucial for the expression of lncMER52A. In addition, YY1 transcription factor bound to the cryptic MER52A LTR promoter and drove lncMER52A transcription in HCC. In conclusion, we identified an LTR-activated lncMER52A, which promoted the progression of HCC cells via stabilizing p120-catenin and activating p120-ctn/Rac1/Cdc42 axis. LncMER52A could serve as biomarker and therapeutic target for patients with HCC.

Significance:

A novel long noncoding RNA lncMER52 modulates cell migration and invasion via posttranslational control of p120-catenin protein stability.
Topological Tumor Graphs: A Graph-Based Spatial Model to Infer Stromal Recruitment for Immunosuppression in Melanoma Histology
Authors: Failmezger Henrik , Muralidhar Sathya , Rullan Antonio , de Andrea Carlos E. , Sahai Erik , Yuan Yinyin
Published: December 2019

Despite the advent of immunotherapy, metastatic melanoma represents an aggressive tumor type with a poor survival outcome. The successful application of immunotherapy requires in-depth understanding of the biological basis and immunosuppressive mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment. In this study, we conducted spatially explicit analyses of the stromal-immune interface across 400 melanoma hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) specimens from The Cancer Genome Atlas. A computational pathology pipeline (CRImage) was used to classify cells in the H&E specimen into stromal, immune, or cancer cells. The estimated proportions of these cell types were validated by independent measures of tumor purity, pathologists' estimate of lymphocyte density, imputed immune cell subtypes, and pathway analyses. Spatial interactions between these cell types were computed using a graph-based algorithm (topological tumor graphs, TTG). This approach identified two stromal features, namely stromal clustering and stromal barrier, which represented the melanoma stromal microenvironment. Tumors with increased stromal clustering and barrier were associated with reduced intratumoral lymphocyte distribution and poor overall survival independent of existing prognostic factors. To explore the genomic basis of these TTG-derived stromal phenotypes, we used a deep learning approach integrating genomic (copy number) and transcriptomic data, thereby inferring a compressed representation of copy number-driven alterations in gene expression. This integrative analysis revealed that tumors with high stromal clustering and barrier had reduced expression of pathways involved in naïve CD4 signaling, MAPK, and PI3K signaling. Taken together, our findings support the immunosuppressive role of stromal cells and T-cell exclusion within the vicinity of melanoma cells.

Significance:

Computational histology-based stromal phenotypes within the tumor microenvironment are significantly associated with prognosis and immune exclusion in melanoma.
Pegando o jeito de domar o bicho
Authors: Leitão Débora Krischke , Gaige Diessica Shaiene , Siqueira Monalisa Dias de
Published: December 2019

Neste artigo pretendemos refletir sobre o processo de aprendizagem das tecnologias digitais por idosos, a partir de pesquisa etnográfica realizada no ano de 2016 em plataformas como o Facebook e no curso de informática para a Melhor Idade ofertado pelo Laboratório de Informática da PRAE/CPD da UFSM. Nossa intenção é mostrar como o relacionamento com computadores constitui um processo complexo para esses sujeitos que estão tendo contato com a tecnologia digital pela primeira vez, requerendo o aprendizado de uma série de ações e dos gestos técnicos. Através de distintas situações etnográficas discorreremos sobre a constituição de um conjunto de saberes e gestos que são corporificados e ilustram a relação entre a materialidade da tecnologia, corpo e motricidade no processo de “pegar o jeito” do computador e “domá-lo”.