bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asynchronous trilobite extinctions at the early to middle Cambrian transition
Authors: Sundberg F.A. , Karlstrom K.E. , Geyer G. , Foster J.R. , Hagadorn J.W. , Mohr M.T. , Schmitz M.D. , Dehler C.M. , Crossey L.J.
Published: April 2020

Trilobites appeared and diversified rapidly in the Cambrian, but it is debated as to whether their radiations and extinctions were globally synchronous or geographically restricted and diachronous. The end of the early Cambrian is a classic example—it has traditionally been defined by the extinction of olenellid and redlichiid trilobites and the appearance of paradoxidid trilobites. Here we integrate the global biostratigraphy of these three trilobite groups with high-precision tuff and tandem detrital zircon U-Pb age constraints to falsify prior models for global synchronicity of these events. For the first time, we demonstrate that olenellid trilobites in Laurentia went extinct at least 3 Ma after the first appearance of paradoxidids in Avalonia and West Gondwana (ca. 509 Ma). They also disappeared before the extinction of redlichiids and prior to the base of the Miaolingian at ca. 506 Ma in South China. This indicates that these three trilobite groups (paradoxidids, olenellids, and redlichiids) and their associated biotas overlapped in time for nearly 40% of Cambrian Epoch 2, Age 4. Implications of this chronological overlap are: (1) trilobite transitions were progressive and geographically mediated rather than globally synchronous; and (2) paleontological databases underestimate the diversity of the early Cambrian. This ∼3 Ma diachroneity, at a critical time in the early evolution of animals, also impacts chemostratigraphic and paleoclimatic data sets that are tied to trilobite biostratigraphy and that collectively underpin our understanding of the Cambrian Earth system.
Supplemental material: Phreatomagmatic volcanism in complex hydrogeological environments: La Crosa de Sant Dalmai maar (Catalan Volcanic Zone, NE Spain)
Authors: Pedrazzi Dario , Bolós Xavier , Martí Joan
Published: April 2020

Geosphere, February 2014, v. 10, p. 170-184, doi:10.1130/GES00959.1, Supplemental Figure - Lithics content of additional samples from the composite stratigraphic columns shown in Figure 5.
Dyadic approach to supervised community rehabilitation participation in an Asian setting post-stroke: exploring the role of caregiver and patient characteristics in a prospective cohort study
Authors: Tyagi Shilpa , Koh Gerald Choon-Huat , Luo Nan , Tan Kelvin Bryan , Hoenig Helen , Matchar David Bruce , Yoong Joanne , Chan Angelique , Lee Kim En , Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy , Menon Edward , Chan Kin Ming , De Silva Deidre Anne , Yap Philip , Tan Boon Yeow , Chew Effie , Young Sherry H , Ng Yee Sien , Tu Tian Ming , Ang Yan Hoon , Kong Keng He , Singh Rajinder , Merchant Reshma A , Chang Hui Meng , Yeo Tseng Tsai , Ning Chou , Cheong Angela , Tan Chuen Seng
Published: April 2020

Objective

To study the association of caregiver factors and stroke survivor factors with supervised community rehabilitation (SCR) participation over the first 3 months and subsequent 3 to 12 months post-stroke in an Asian setting.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Community setting.

Participants

We recruited stroke survivors and their caregivers into our yearlong cohort. Caregiver and stroke survivor variables were collected over 3-monthly intervals. We performed logistic regression with the outcome variable being SCR participation post-stroke.

Outcome measures

SCR participation over the first 3 months and subsequent 3 to 12 months post-stroke

Results

251 stroke survivor-caregiver dyads were available for the current analysis. The mean age of caregivers was 50.1 years, with the majority being female, married and co-residing with the stroke survivor. There were 61%, 28%, 4% and 7% of spousal, adult-child, sibling and other caregivers. The odds of SCR participation decreased by about 15% for every unit increase in caregiver-reported stroke survivor’s disruptive behaviour score (OR: 0.845; 95% CI: 0.769 to 0.929). For every 1-unit increase in the caregiver’s positive management strategy score, the odds of using SCR service increased by about 4% (OR: 1.039; 95% CI: 1.011 to 1.068).

Conclusion

We established that SCR participation is jointly determined by both caregiver and stroke survivor factors, with factors varying over the early and late post-stroke period. Our results support the adoption of a dyadic or more inclusive approach for studying the utilisation of community rehabilitation services, giving due consideration to both the stroke survivors and their caregivers. Adopting a stroke survivor-caregiver dyadic approach in practice settings should include promotion of positive care management strategies, comprehensive caregiving training including both physical and behavioural dimensions, active engagement of caregivers in rehabilitation journey and conducting regular caregiver needs assessments in the community.
Non-tuberculous mycobacterial lung disease in patients with bronchiectasis: perceived risk, severity and guideline adherence in a European physician survey
Authors: Wagner Dirk , van Ingen Jakko , van der Laan Roald , Obradovic Marko
Published: April 2020

Background

Patients with bronchiectasis are at increased risk of developing non-tuberculous mycobacteria lung disease (NTM-LD), and published guidelines recommend regular testing for NTM infection in this patient population.

Objective

This study aimed to survey physicians managing patients with bronchiectasis to understand the perceived risk of NTM to their patients, perceived disease severity and frequency of testing for NTM.

Methods

The study comprised an online survey of hospital-based physicians in the UK, Germany, Italy, France and the Netherlands. The target group were hospital-based physicians who had managed at least 10 adult patients with bronchiectasis over the preceding 12 months.

Results

In total, 280 physicians completed the survey. Most (87%) thought their patients to be at particular risk of NTM, although it was perceived as a moderate risk versus other respiratory pathogens. Most perceived NTM-LD to impact patient morbidity (84%), and 61% indicated that NTM-LD significantly impacted mortality. 68% of all respondents did not test for NTM prior to initiating macrolide monotherapy, despite guidelines recommending testing. The perceived risk of and screening for NTM varied among countries.

Conclusions

The study demonstrates that physicians understand the risk of NTM-LD and associated morbidity in patients with bronchiectasis; however, a minority do not perceive that NTM-LD significantly affects mortality. Greater awareness of the need to test for NTM infection before initiating macrolide monotherapy for bronchiectasis is essential due to potential emergence of drug-resistant NTM.
Side effects of acetazolamide: a systematic review and meta-analysis assessing overall risk and dose dependence
Authors: Schmickl Christopher N , Owens Robert L , Orr Jeremy E , Edwards Bradley A , Malhotra Atul
Published: April 2020

Introduction

Acetazolamide (AZM) is used for various conditions (eg, altitude sickness, sleep apnoea, glaucoma), but therapy is often limited by its side effect profile. Our objective was to estimate the risk of commonly reported side effects based on meta-analyses. We hypothesised that these risks are dose-dependent.

Methods

We queried MEDLINE/EMBASE (Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online/Excerpta Medica dataBASE) up until 04/10/2019, including any randomised placebo-controlled trial in which adults received oral AZM versus placebo reporting side effects. Eligibility assessment was performed by two independent reviewers. Data were abstracted by one reviewer who verified key entries at a second time point. For side effects reported by>3 studies a pooled effect estimate was calculated, and heterogeneity assessed via I2; for outcomes reported by>5 studies effect modification by total daily dose (EMbyTDD; <400 mg/d, 400–600 mg/d, >600 mg/d) was assessed via meta-regression. For pre-specified, primary outcomes (paraesthesias, taste disturbances, polyuria and fatigue) additional subgroup analyses were performed using demographics, intervention details, laboratory changes and risk of bias.

Results

We included 42 studies in the meta-analyses (Nsubjects=1274/1211 in AZM/placebo groups). AZM increased the risk of all primary outcomes (p<0.01, I2≤16% and low-to-moderate quality of evidence for all)—the numbers needed to harm (95% CI; nStudies) for each were: paraesthesias 2.3 (95% CI 2 to 2.7; n=39), dysgeusia 18 (95% CI 10 to 38, n=22), polyuria 17 (95% CI 9 to 49; n=22), fatigue 11 (95% CI 6 to 24; n=14). The risk for paraesthesias (beta=1.8 (95% CI 1.1 to 2.9); PEMbyTDD=0.01) and dysgeusia (beta=3.1 (95% CI 1.2 to 8.2); PEMbyTDD=0.02) increased with higher AZM doses; the risk of fatigue also increased with higher dose but non-significantly (beta=2.6 (95% CI 0.7 to 9.4); PEMbyTDD=0.14).

Discussion

This comprehensive meta-analysis of low-to-moderate quality evidence defines risk of common AZM side effects and corroborates dose dependence of some side effects. These results may inform clinical decision making and support efforts to establish the lowest effective dose of AZM for various conditions.
Traditional Chinese Medicine for Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Cognitive Impairment: A Review
Authors: Pei Hui , Ma Lina , Cao Yu , Wang Feixue , Li Zehui , Liu Nanyang , Liu Meixia , Wei Yun , Li Hao
Published: April 2020

Cognitive impairment (CI) refers to the dysfunction of memory, language, visual space, execution, calculation, understanding, and judgment in one or more aspects. With global aging, CI will become prevalent worldwide. At present, there is no effective cure for CI. However, Nobel laureate Tu Youyou’s research on artemisinin has inspired Chinese researchers to focus on traditional Chinese herbs (TCHs) for the treatment of CI. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has led to a theory for an independent CI system. The pathogenesis of such impairment involves deficiency, phlegm, and stagnation and involves a range of organs, including the brain, kidneys, heart, liver, and spleen. Our current understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of this condition has led to the realization that TCHs can improve cognitive dysfunction. Clinical research has shown that TCHs can improve the neuropsychological scale score of patients, the TCM symptom score, and the patient’s quality of life. Research has also suggested that TCHs can retard A[Formula: see text] deposits and tauopathy, regulate the metabolism of cholinergic neurotransmitters, and so on. However, due to their complexity, little is known of the safety and efficacy of TCHs in patients with CI. It is likely that we will be able to identify the precise mechanisms associated with the action of TCHs in such patients due to the integration of multiple technologies. This paper summarizes the pharmacokinetics, curative effect, and mechanisms of action of traditional Chinese herbs in order to provide a scientific basis for the improvement of cognitive dysfunction by TCHs.
Corosolic Acid Attenuates Hepatic Lipid Accumulation and Inflammatory Response via AMPK/SREBPs and NF-κB/MAPK Signaling Pathways
Authors: Zhang Jian-Xiu , Feng Wei-Jun , Liu Guan-Cheng , Ma Qian-Qian , Li Hai-Lan , Gao Xiao-Yan , Liu Hui-Zhe , Piao Guang-Chun , Yuan Hai-Dan
Published: April 2020

Corosolic acid (CA) is the main active component of Lagetstroemia speciosa and has been known to serve as several different pharmacological effects, such as antidiabetic, anti-oxidant, and anticancer effects. In this study, effects of CA on the hepatic lipid accumulation were examined using HepG2 cells and tyloxapol (TY)-induced hyperlipidemia ICR mice. CA significantly inhibited hepatic lipid accumulation via inhibition of SREBPs, and its target genes FAS, SCD1, and HMGCR transcription in HepG2 cells. These effects were mediated through activation of AMPK, and these effects were all abolished in the presence of compound C (CC, an AMPK inhibitor). In addition, CA clearly alleviated serum ALT, AST, TG, TC, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, and obviously attenuated TY-induced liver steatosis and inflammation. Moreover, CA significantly upregulated AMPK, ACC, LKB1 phosphorylation, and significantly inhibited lipin1, SREBPs, TNF-[Formula: see text], F4/80, caspase-1 expression, NF-[Formula: see text]B translocation, and MAPK activation in TY-induced hyperlipidemia mice. Our results suggest that CA is a potent antihyperlipidemia and antihepatic steatosis agent and the mechanism involved both lipogenesis and cholesterol synthesis and inflammation response inhibition via AMPK/SREBPs and NF-[Formula: see text]B/MAPK signaling pathways.
A search for charged lepton flavor violation in the Mu2e experiment
Authors: Kargiantoulakis Manolis
Published: April 2020

The Mu2e experiment will search for the neutrino-less conversion of a muon into an electron in the field of an aluminum nucleus. An observation would be the first signal of charged lepton flavor violation and de facto evidence for new physics beyond the Standard Model. The clean signature of the conversion process offers an opportunity for a powerful search: Mu2e will probe four orders of magnitude beyond current limits, with real discovery potential over a wide range of well-motivated new physics models. This goal requires an integrated system of solenoids that will create the most intense muon beam in the world, and suppression of all possible background sources. The Mu2e components are currently being constructed, with the experiment planned to begin operations in the Fermilab Muon Campus within the next few years.
Plasticity of cardiovascular chemoreflexes after prolonged unilateral carotid body denervation: implications for its therapeutic use
Authors: Eugenín Jaime , Larraín Carolina , Zapata Patricio
Published: April 2020

Unilateral carotid body denervation has been proposed as treatment for sympathetic hyperactivity-related human disorders. Its therapeutic effectiveness for maintaining a persistent decrease in the sympathetic outflow activity will depend on the absence of compensatory chemoreflex plasticity in the remnant carotid and aortic afferents. Here, we suggest that the integrity of central afferents after carotid body denervation is essential to prevent the emergence of plastic functional changes on the contralateral “intact” carotid nerve.
Prediction of Residual Gas Content during Coal Roadway Tunneling Based on Drilling Cuttings Indices and BA‐ELM Algorithm
Authors: Yang Zhenhua , Zhang Hongwei , Li Sheng , Fan Chaojun
Published: April 2020

In order to predict the residual gas content in coal seam in front of roadway advancing face accurately and rapidly, an improved prediction method based on both drilling cuttings indices and bat algorithm optimizing extreme learning machine (BA‐ELM) was proposed. The test indices of outburst prevention measures (drilling cuttings indices, residual gas content in coal seam) during roadway advancing in Yuecheng coal mine were first analyzed. Then, the correlation between drilling cuttings indices and residual gas content was established, as well as the neural network prediction model based on BA‐ELM. Finally, the prediction result of the proposed method was compared with that of back‐propagation (BP), support vector machine (SVM), and extreme learning machine (ELM) to verify the accuracy. The results show that the average absolute error, the average absolute percentage error, and the determination coefficient of the proposed prediction method of residual gas content in coal seam are 0.069, 0.012, and 0.981, respectively. This method has higher accuracy than other methods and can effectively reveal the nonlinear relationship between drilling cuttings indices and residual gas content. It has prospective application in the prediction of residual gas content in coal seam.
An Output Force Control for Robotic Manipulator by Changing the Spring Stiffness
Authors: Wang Jirong , Zheng Yuhang , Li Jun , Liu Cheng , Huang Youliang , Liu Yu
Published: April 2020

This paper presents an output control for a manipulator by changing the spring stiffness. Through the modeling and analysis of the nonlinear stiffness characteristics of the crank-rocker mechanism, and using the zero stiffness domain search method to select the appropriate spring stiffness, using different spring stiffness to establish different mechanism models, the robot can finally control the output of ideal constant force, and at the same time, the analysis results are applied to the improved design of the tire grabbing manipulator. Through this method, the tire grabbing manipulator becomes a constant grabbing force mechanism, and the mechanism is transformed from a rigid-body mechanism to a pseudo-rigid-body mechanism. The accuracy and stability of the whole system are greatly improved. In this study, the method of adding spring to each joint of the linkage mechanism is applied to the improvement design of the linkage mechanism, and the four-bar constant force mechanism is designed for the first time, which expands the application field of the nonlinear stiffness characteristics of the linkage mechanism, and has great application value to the improvement design of the mechanical system with the linkage mechanism and the control of the output force.
Schiff-Based Fluorescent-ON Sensor L Synthesis and Its Application for Selective Determination of Cerium in Aqueous Media
Authors: Sadia Maria , Khan Jehangir , Naz Robina , Zahoor Muhammad , Khan Ezzat , Ullah Riaz , Bari Ahmed
Published: April 2020

In the present study, a fluorescent sensor L for sensing of Ce3+ion was designed and characterized by XRD,1HNMR, and FTIR. Its fluorescence behavior towards metal ion was examined by fluorescence spectroscopy. Chelation-enhanced fluorescence was shown by the sensor L upon interaction with Ce3+ion. This fluorescent sensor exhibits high sensitivity and selectivity towards Ce3+ion in acetonitrile solution, forming 2 : 1 (L : M) complex as determined by Job’s plot. Association constant was found to be1×107 M−1estimated from the Benesi-Hildebrand plot. No significant interference was observed in the presence of other studied alkali, alkaline, and transition metal ions. A rapid response was observed when employed for the determination of Ce3+ion in spiked water samples with a limit of detection equal to3.4×10−8 M.
Agave Leaves as a Substrate for the Production of Cellulases by Penicillium sp. and the Obtainment of Reducing Sugars
Authors: Silva-Mendoza Julio , Gómez-Treviño Alberto , López-Chuken Ulrico , Blanco-Gámez Edgar Allan , Chávez-Guerrero Leonardo , Cantú-Cárdenas María Elena
Published: April 2020

Lignocellulosic biomass can be used to obtain fermentable sugars by enzymatic hydrolysis, and also it serves as a carbon source to produce cellulases by solid-state fermentation. In this study, we propose the use of leaves of Agave salmiana as a carbon source to produce cellulases by the fungus Penicillium sp., isolated from the same plant. The crude enzymatic extract was used to obtain sugars from the hydrolysis of the parenchymal cells of the leaves. The enzymes produced were characterized (endoglucanase 14.4 U/g; exoglucanase 3.5 U/g; β-glucosidase 4.14 U/g). The enzymes showed activities at elevated temperatures: 50°C for endoglucanase and exoglucanase and 70°C for β-glucosidase. Furthermore, the crude enzymatic extract obtained was able to hydrolyze the parenchyma in 51.6% in 48 h. The evidence presented in this paper shows the potential of the agave leaves as a source of carbon in the production of enzymes by fermentation with the consequent production of reducing sugars. In addition, the enzymes produced by Penicillium sp. could be used in the production of bioethanol, since they work at high temperatures.
Plasma Glycosaminoglycan Profiles in Systemic Sclerosis: Associations with MMP‐3, MMP‐10, TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2, and TGF‐Beta
Authors: Kuźnik-Trocha Kornelia , Winsz-Szczotka Katarzyna , Komosińska-Vassev Katarzyna , Jura-Półtorak Agnieszka , Kotulska-Kucharz Anna , Kucharz Eugeniusz J. , Kotyla Przemysław , Olczyk Krystyna
Published: April 2020

The aim of the study was to determine whether plasma levels of total glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) (MMP‐3, MMP‐10), and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs) (TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2) as well as transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) differ in the patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) in relation to the healthy subjects. Plasma samples were obtained from 106 people (64 patients with SSc and 42 healthy individuals) and measured for MMP‐3, MMP‐10, TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2, and TGF‐β levels using ELISA methods. GAGs isolated from plasma samples were quantified using a hexuronic acid assay. The plasma levels of total GAGs, TIMP‐1, TIMP‐2, and TGF‐β were significantly higher, while MMP‐3 was significantly decreased in SSc patients compared to the controls. We have revealed a significant correlation between plasma GAGs and TGF‐β (r = –0.47) and TIMP‐2 (r = 0.38), respectively. The results of this study revealed that remodeling of the extracellular matrix, reflected by quantitative changes in plasma glycosaminoglycans, occurs during systemic sclerosis. Thus, the alterations in GAG metabolism connected with SSc may lead to systemic changes in the properties of the connective tissue extracellular matrix.
The Methods toward Improving Communication Performance in Transparent Radio Frequency Signals
Authors: Daldal Nihat , Nour Majid , Polat Kemal
Published: April 2020

In wireless digital communications, amplitude-shift keying (ASK) and frequency-shift keying (FSK) modules are often used and radio frequency (RF), communication synchronization, and noise problems affect the performance very much. In particular, the sending of byte-type data called synchronous and preamble before sending data in intermodule communication increases the sent data and decreases the speed. Also, the microcontroller at the output of the RF receiver module continuously listens to the RF noise and analyzes incoming data, but this increases the processing load of the microcontroller. Moreover, it reduces the speed of performing other operations. In this study, a transparent RF transmitter and receiver have been investigated, and methods for increasing the communication performance of the modules have been proposed and performed. Two of the proposed methods prevented the continuous listening of the microprocessor in the RF receiver structure so that the microprocessor can be used with other processes. In other methods, the compression of the data size was achieved because the transmission of a series of data in RF communication systems was limited to a certain extent. In the last section of the study, since the RF modules have failed to transmit the data due to corruption in the extended data dimensions, the bit carrier control security code has been created for the data series and more healthy communication has been performed.
Relationship between Brittleness Index and Crack Initiation Stress Ratio for Different Rock Types
Authors: Jiang Juyu , Wang Dong , Han Xinping , Di Shuai
Published: April 2020

Brittleness and crack initiation stress (σci) are important rock mechanical properties and intrinsically related to rock deformation and failure. We establish the relationship between σci and uniaxial tensile strength (σt) based on the Griffith stress criterion of brittle failure and introduce brittleness indexes B1–B4 based on the ratio of uniaxial compressive strength (σc) to σt. The crack initiation stress ratio (K) is defined as the ratio of σci to crack damage stress. The relationship between brittleness index and K is obtained from laboratory mechanics tests including uniaxial compression and Brazilian splitting tests. The results show that B1 and B2 have an inversely proportional and variant inversely proportional relationship with K, respectively, whereas no apparent relationship is observed between B3 and B4 and K. The fitting of experimental data from igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks shows that B1 and B2 have a power and linear relationship with K, respectively, whereas no functional relationship is observed between B3 and B4 and K. We collected 70 different types of uniaxial compression test data for igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks and obtained laws that are consistent within each rock type. The experimental data are used to verify K estimations using a specified constant α based on the experimental data. According to results of the limestone tests, α = 3 for σc < 60 MPa (high porosity), α = 5 for 60 MPa ≤ σc ≤ 90 MPa (moderate porosity), and α = 8 for σc > 90 MPa (low porosity) as well as for igneous and metamorphic rocks. Estimates of K for 127 different rock types using the newly defined brittleness index are in good agreement with the experimental results. This study provides an important new brittleness index calculation method and a simple and reliable method for estimating K.
Systemic Glutathione as a Skin-Whitening Agent in Adult
Authors: Sitohang I. B. S. , Ninditya S.
Published: April 2020

Objectives. To compare the efficacy and safety profiles of systemic glutathione as a skin-whitening agent in adults from several randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods. This study is an evidence-based case report with literature search conducted on Clinical Key, Cochrane, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Taylor and Francis Online, ScienceDirect, and PubMed databases. Three relevant RCTs were extracted and assessed for validity, importance, and applicability. Results. From 3 included trials, one of the studies opposed glutathione as a skin-whitening agent. However, the other two showed significant results only to some parts of the body or to certain age groups. As a skin-whitening agent, studies showed that glutathione yielded other cosmetic benefits as it may improve skin elasticity and reduce skin wrinkles. Furthermore, glutathione was well tolerated in oral preparations, but not in parenteral preparations. Conclusions. Highest-evidence literatures showed that glutathione is not beneficial enough as a skin-whitening agent as it was only effective in some parts of the body and did not elicit long-lasting effects. However, its safety profiles in oral preparations were well tolerated. More researches regarding the time needed for skin color to return to its original state following drug withdrawal need to be conducted as it is yet to be discovered.
Associations of Bone Turnover Markers with Cognitive Function in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Wu Ping-Hsun , Lin Yi-Ting , Chen Cheng-Sheng , Chiu Yi-Wen , Tsai Jer-Chia , Kuo Po-Lin , Hsu Ya-Ling , Ljunggren Östen , Fellström Bengt , Kuo Mei-Chuan
Published: April 2020

Background. Patients undergoing hemodialysis experience a greater risk of cognitive impairment than the general population, but limited data elucidates the biomarkers on this. We evaluated the association of bone turnover markers on cognitive function among 251 prevalent hemodialysis enrollees in a cross-sectional study. Methods. 251 hemodialysis patients (median age=57.8, 55% men) and 37 control subjects (mean age=61.2, 56% men) without a prior stroke or dementia diagnosis were enrolled. Serum concentrations of 8 bone markers were analyzed as the association of cognitive function (Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument (CASI)) using linear regression analysis. Results. A lower cognitive function was noted in hemodialysis patients compared to control subjects. The receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) was the only bone marker found to be associated with cognitive function (MoCA and CASI tests) in hemodialysis patients without a prior stroke or dementia diagnosis. In stepwise multiple linear regression analysis, the association remained significant in MoCA (β=1.14, 95% CI 0.17 to 2.11) and CASI (β=3.06, 95% CI 0.24 to 5.88). Short-term memory (β=0.52, 95% CI 0.01 to 1.02), mental manipulation (β=0.51, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.96), and abstract thinking (β=0.57, 95% CI 0.06 to 1.09) were the significant subdomains in the CASI score related to RANKL. Conclusions. Serum RANKL levels were potentially associated with better cognitive function in hemodialysis patients. Further large-scale and prospective studies are needed to confirm our findings.
High FLT3 Levels May Predict Sorafenib Benefit in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Sun Wen , Li Shi-Chao , Xu Li , Zhong Wei , Wang Zhen-Guang , Pan Chu-zhi , Li Jing , Jin Guang-Zhi , Ta Na , Dong Wei , Liu Dan , Liu Hui , Wang Hong-Yang , Ding Jin
Published: April 2020

Purpose:

To identify a predictive biomarker of sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma personalized therapy.

Experimental Design:

The patients treated with or without sorafenib after hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence from multicenters were matched with propensity score matching analysis. The expression levels of Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) in hepatocellular carcinoma specimens of the matched patients (n = 276) were analyzed by IHC. The optimal cut-off point of FLT3 levels for overall survival (OS) was defined via Cutoff Finder. Subgroup analysis of OS was employed to investigate the association between FLT3 levels and sorafenib benefit. The predictive value was assessed via Cox regression models with an interaction term. Hepatocellular carcinoma and paratumoral normal tissues were used to investigate the expression and copy-number variation of FLT3. Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models were used to confirm the association between FLT3 levels and sorafenib response.

Results:

Patients with FLT3-high hepatocellular carcinoma exhibited a superior OS upon sorafenib treatment. High FLT3 levels were predictive of sorafenib benefit in terms of OS (Pinteraction = 0.00006). Copy-number losses and decreased expression of FLT3 in hepatocellular carcinoma were detected in about 64% of patients. Moreover, the PDXs derived from tumors with high FLT3 levels also displayed a better response to sorafenib.

Conclusions:

Sorafenib may be able to delay tumor progression in patients with FLT3-high hepatocellular carcinoma. This potential biomarker needs to be further validated in independent cohorts prior to helping stratify patients for precision therapy in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma.
Radiological Patterns of Drug-induced Interstitial Lung Disease (DILD) in Early-phase Oncology Clinical Trials
Authors: Terbuch Angelika , Tiu Crescens , Candilejo Irene Moreno , Scaranti Mariana , Curcean Andra , Bar Dan , Estevez Timon Miriam , Ameratunga Malaka , Ang Joo Ern , Ratoff Jonathan , Minchom Anna R. , Banerji Udai , de Bono Johann S. , Tunariu Nina , Lopez Juanita S.
Published: April 2020

Purpose:

Drug-induced interstitial lung disease (DILD) is a rare, but potentially fatal toxicity. Clinical and radiological features of DILD in the early experimental setting are poorly described.

Patients and Methods:

A total of 2,499 consecutive patients with advanced cancer on phase I clinical trials were included. DILD was identified by a dedicated radiologist and investigators, categorized per internationally recognized radiological patterns, and graded per Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) and the Royal Marsden Hospital (RMH) DILD score. Clinical and radiological features of DILD were analyzed.

Results:

Sixty patients overall (2.4%) developed DILD. Median time to onset of DILD was 63 days (range, 14–336 days). A total of 45% of patients who developed DILD were clinically asymptomatic. Incidence was highest in patients receiving drug conjugates (7.4%), followed by inhibitors of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway (3.9%). The most common pattern seen was hypersensitivity pneumonitis (33.3%), followed by nonspecific interstitial pneumonia (30%), and cryptogenic organizing pneumonia (26.7%). A higher DILD score [OR, 1.47, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.19–1.81; P < 0.001] and the pattern of DILD (OR, 5.83 for acute interstitial pneumonia; 95% CI, 0.38–90.26; P = 0.002) were significantly associated with a higher CTCAE grading. The only predictive factor for an improvement in DILD was an interruption of treatment (OR, 0.05; 95% CI, 0.01–0.35; P = 0.01).

Conclusions:

DILD in early-phase clinical trials is a toxicity of variable onset, with diverse clinical and radiological findings. Radiological findings precede clinical symptoms. The extent of the affected lung parenchyma, scored by the RMH DILD score, correlates with clinical presentation. Most events are low grade, and improve with treatment interruption, which should be considered early.
Science, Sensibility and Gender in Argentina, 1820–1852
Authors: Novoa Adriana
Published: April 2020

This article analyzes how scientific thinking evolved in Argentina during the 1820s and 1830s. I will focus on liberals’ association of science with the emergence of a new male sensibility that feminized the role of men in society. This gendered scientific culture explains how liberals clashed in the 1830s with the policies of the governor of Buenos Aires, Juan Manuel de Rosas, whose hyper masculinist model based on the authority of the father was perceived not only as anti-civilization, but also as anti-science. This association of gender and science helps us to explain how the introduction of Darwinian ideas that seemed to support a more masculinist representation of evolution, now ruled by laws of survival and competition, was perceived as a contradiction of past ideas by the 1870s.
Three new species of the barracudina genus Lestidium (Aulopiformes: Paralepididae) from the Indo-West Pacific
Authors: HO HSUAN-CHING , GRAHAM KEN , RUSSELL BARRY
Published: April 2020

Three new species of the genus Lestidium with complete lateral line are described from the Indo-west Pacific Ocean. Lestidium longilucifer sp. nov., from Western Australia and Taiwan, belongs to the Lestidium atlanticum species complex and can be separated from other congeners by having 41–43 prehaemal vertebrae, 85–88 total vertebrae and 126–146 total lateral-line scales; and body proportions. Lestidium australis sp. nov. from eastern Australia and Lestidium rofeni sp. nov. from Taiwan and the Philippines together with Lestidium prolixum form the L. prolixum species complex. These three species can be separated from each other by a combination of different fin positions, vertebral formula, number of lateral-line scales and pigmentation.
Carnivorous sponges (Porifera, Cladorhizidae) from the deep South Pacific (New Caledonia) with the description of three new species of the genus Abyssocladia and remarks on genus Cercicladia
Authors: VACELET JEAN
Published: April 2020

Three new species of carnivorous sponges of the genus Abyssocladia (Demospongiae, Cladorhizidae), A. kanaconi, A. microstrongylata and A. mucronata, are described from the bathyal zone of the Tropical Southwestern Pacific, south of New Caledonia. They were collected in 2016 and 2019 during the KANACONO and KANADEEP 2 expeditions of the Tropical Deep-Sea Benthos program of the French Museum National d’Histoire Naturelle. A new record is reported for the cladorhizid Cercicladia australis Rios, Kelly & Vacelet, 2011, and the spicules of the holotype of the type species of Abyssocladia, A. bruuni Lévi, 1964 are illustrated.
Holothuria (Lessonothuria) insignis Ludwig, 1875 (formally resurrected from synonymy of H. pardalis Selenka, 1867) and Holothuria (Lessonothuria) lineata Ludwig, 1875—new additions to the sea cucumber fauna of Pakistan, with a key to the subgenus Lessonothuria Deichmann (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea)
Authors: AHMED QURATULAN , THANDAR AHMED S. , ALI QADEER MOHAMMAD
Published: April 2020

Two specimens of a species herein identified as Holothuria (Lessonothuria) insignis Ludwig, 1875 and a single specimen identified as Holothuria (Lessonothuria) lineata Ludwig, 1875, were collected from the intertidal zone at low tide from two coastal localities in Karachi (Buleji and Sunahri). This paper briefly documents their morphology and habitat characteristics and formally resurrects H. (L.) insignis from the synonymy of H. (L.) pardalis Selenka, 1867, based on the observations of the ossicles assemblage deduced from current material, syntype, some material at the NHMUK (Natural History Museum,UK), and literature. H. pardalis is also commented on and compared with its related congeners in Pakistan, in tabular form. A key is presented of all species of the Lessonothuria group currently recognized in WoRMS.
On the Relationship between the TKE Dissipation Rate and the Temperature Structure Function Parameter in the Convective Boundary Layer
Authors: Luce Hubert , Kantha Lakshmi , Hashiguchi Hiroyuki , Doddi Abhiram , Lawrence Dale , Yabuki Masanori
Published: April 2020

Under stably stratified conditions, the dissipation rate ε of turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) is related to the structure function parameter for temperature

, through the buoyancy frequency and the so-called mixing efficiency. A similar relationship does not exist for convective turbulence. In this paper, we propose an analytical expression relating ε and

in the convective boundary layer (CBL), by taking into account the effects of nonlocal heat transport under convective conditions using the Deardorff countergradient model. Measurements using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with high-frequency response sensors to measure velocity and temperature fluctuations obtained during the two field campaigns conducted at Shigaraki MU observatory in June 2016 and 2017 are used to test this relationship between ε and

in the CBL. The selection of CBL cases for analysis was aided by auxiliary measurements from additional sensors (mainly radars), and these are described. Comparison with earlier results in the literature suggests that the proposed relationship works, if the countergradient term γ

D
in the Deardorff model, which is proportional to the ratio of the variances of potential temperature θ and vertical velocity w, is evaluated from in situ (airplane and UAV) observational data, but fails if evaluated from large-eddy simulation (LES) results. This appears to be caused by the tendency of the variance of θ in the upper part of the CBL and at the bottom of the entrainment zone to be underestimated by LES relative to in situ measurements from UAVs and aircraft. We discuss this anomaly and explore reasons for it.
An emotion classification method from electroencephalogram based on 1/f fluctuation theory
Authors: Li Hao , Mao Xia , Chen Lijiang
Published: April 2020

Electroencephalogram data are easily affected by artifacts, and a drift may occur during the signal acquisition process. At present, most research focuses on the automatic detection and elimination of artifacts in electrooculograms, electromyograms and electrocardiograms. However, electroencephalogram drift data, which affect the real-time performance, are mainly manually calibrated and abandoned. An emotion classification method based on 1/f fluctuation theory is proposed to classify electroencephalogram data without removing artifacts and drift data. The results show that the proposed method can still achieve a great classification accuracy of 75% in cases in which artifacts and drift data exist when using the support vector machine classifier. In addition, the real-time performance of the proposed method is guaranteed.
Feelings, thoughts and experiences of caregivers of patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Bademli Kerime , Lök Neslihan
Published: April 2020

Background:

Caregivers have different experiences in the patient care process during which the role of providing care is fulfilled.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to provide data on the feelings, thoughts and experiences of the caregivers of patients with schizophrenia.

Method:

In this study, the phenomenological method was used.

Results:

The results of this study revealed the following themes: meaning of schizophrenia, the meaning of being caregiver, life before being caregiver, feeling of patients’ relatives, difficult areas while providing care, coping situations and metaphors produced by the caregivers.

Conclusion:

The results obtained from the study revealed that the caregivers of patients with schizophrenia need information about the mental illness and have a higher emotional burden.

Practice Implications:

Nurses should listen to caregivers’ experiences, inquire about the experience of caregivers regarding patient care and advise caregivers on how to take care of their patients.
Childhood cycling fatalities in South Australia before and after the introduction of helmet legislation
Authors: O’Donovan Siobhan , van den Heuvel Corinna , Baldock Matthew , Byard Roger W
Published: April 2020

In the years following the introduction of legislation in Australian states mandating the wearing of helmets, there was a decline in the number of deaths. Debate has occurred, however, as to why this occurred. The Traffic Accident Reporting System database, which records data for all police-reported crashes in South Australia, was searched for all cases of deaths occurring in the state in bicycle riders aged ≤14 years from January 1982 to December 2001. The numbers of deaths were then compared over the 10-year periods before (1982–1991) and after (1992–2001) the introduction of helmet legislation, and also on a yearly basis from 1982 to 2001. Comparing the numbers of deaths in the two periods before and after helmet legislation in 1991 showed a marked decrease in cases from 36 to 12. However, in examining the numbers of deaths per year in greater detail, it appears that these were already steadily reducing from nine cases per year in 1982 (2.9/100,000) to two cases in 1991 (0.67/100,000) to a virtual plateau after 1991 (ranging from 0 to 2 cases annually). It seems that the introduction of compulsory bicycle helmet wearing in South Australia came at a time when the numbers of child cyclist deaths had been steadily declining over the preceding decade. While helmet wearing clearly protects children who are still riding bicycles, the reasons for the reduction in numbers of deaths appears more complex than legislative change and likely involves a subtle interaction with other behavioural and societal factors and preferences.
Personality Traits, Psychological Needs, and Social Support Among Suicide Attempters
Authors: Khosravi Sala , Jalali Amir , Jalali Rostam , Salari Nader , Alikhani Mostafa
Published: April 2020

Suicide is a self-destructive behavior and social support can be of utmost importance in preventing it. The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between personality traits, psychological needs, and perceived social support in individuals with self-harm behaviors in 2017. This study was performed as a cross-sectional study with participation of 115 suicide attempters by poisoning selected via convenience sampling method. The NEO Personality Inventory, the Basic Needs Satisfaction Scale, and the Social Support Questionnaire were used to collect the required data, which were then analyzed using SPSS Statistics. The findings revealed a significant relationship between personality traits, psychological needs, and perceived social support in suicide attempters by intentional poisoning. Some of the personality traits, perceived social support status, and satisfaction with basic psychological needs were important risk factors affecting suicide attempts by intentional poisoning.
Effect of Storytelling Technique on the Attitudes of Nursing Students Toward Death
Authors: Özveren Hüsna , Gülnar Emel , Çalışkan Nurcan
Published: April 2020

This study was conducted to determine the effect of the storytelling technique on the attitudes of nursing students toward death as a mixed research design. The study sample consisted of 94 senior students attending the nursing department of a university in Turkey. Quantitative data were collected by using the introductory characteristics form and the Death Attitude Profile-Revised, while qualitative data were collected through focus group interviews with the semistructured interview form. The data were analyzed according to number, percentage, Wilcoxon test, paired samples ttest, and descriptive analysis method. The mean Death Attitude Profile-Revised Scale score of the students before receiving the relevant education was 4.17 ± 0.21. This score increased to 4.25 ± 0.24 after the students received the education and the difference was found to be statistically significant ( p < .05). In the qualitative section of the study, the data obtained from the attitudes of the students toward death were coded, and four themes were determined. The qualitative data obtained from the focus group interviews with the participating students were presented under four themes: the contribution of the storytelling technique to learning, the effect of the storytelling technique on the attitude toward death, thoughts about the storytelling technique, and contribution of the course to knowledge, skills and attitude in giving care to the dying patient. As a result of the study, explaining the subject of death with the storytelling technique was determined to positively affect the attitudes of the students toward death.
Direct and Indirect Effects of Neuroticism on Internet Addiction in College Students: A Structure Equation Modeling Analysis
Authors: Zhang Yang
Published: April 2020

In the recent decade, increased severity of Internet addiction has been the focus of considerable attention. This research aimed to explore the relationships between neuroticism and Internet addiction. A total of 459 undergraduate students in China participating in this study completed self-report measures of neuroticism, impulsivity, and Internet addiction. The results showed that neuroticism, impulsivity, and Internet addiction were significantly and positively correlated with one other. The structural equation modeling approach indicated that impulsivity, in part, mediated the effect of neuroticism on Internet addiction. An important indirect path from neuroticism to Internet addiction through impulsivity was exposed using the bootstrap method. The outcomes of previous studies were expounded on to define how neuroticism affects Internet addiction.
Preliminary injury risk estimation for occupants involved in frontal crashes by combining computer simulations and real crashes
Authors: Qiu Jinlong , Su Sen , Duan Aowen , Feng Chengjian , Xie Jingru , Li Kui , Yin Zhiyong
Published: April 2020

The fatality rate can be dramatically reduced with the help of emergency medical services. The purpose of this study was to establish a computational algorithm to predict the injury severity, so as to improve the timeliness, appropriateness, and efficacy of medical care provided. The computer simulations of full-frontal crashes with rigid wall were carried out using LS-DYNA and MADYMO under different collision speeds, airbag deployment time, and seatbelt wearing condition, in which a total of 84 times simulation was conducted. Then an artificial neural network is adopted to construct relevance between head and chest injuries and the injury risk factors; 37 accident cases with Event Data Recorder data and information on occupant injury were collected to validate the model accuracy through receiver operating characteristic analysis. The results showed that delta-v, seatbelt wearing condition, and airbag deployment time were important factors in the occupant’s head and chest injuries. When delta-v increased, the occupant had significantly higher level of severe injury on the head and chest; there is a significant difference of Head Injury Criterion and Combined Thoracic Index whether the occupant wore seatbelt. When the airbag deployment time was less than 20 ms, the severity of head and chest injuries did not significantly vary with the increase of deployment time. However, when the deployment time exceeded 20 ms, the severity of head and chest injuries significantly increased with increase in deployment time. The validation result of the algorithm showed that area under the curve = 0.747, p < 0.05, indicating a medium level of accuracy, nearly to previous model. The computer simulation and artificial neural network have a great potential for developing injury risk estimation algorithms suitable for Advanced Automatic Crash Notification applications, which could assist in medical decision-making and medical care.