bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A framework for auralization of boundary element method simulations including source and receiver directivity
Authors: Hargreaves Jonathan A. , Rendell Luke R. , Lam Yiu W.
Published: April 2019

The Boundary Element Method (BEM) is a proven numerical prediction tool for computation of room acoustic transfer functions, as are required for auralization of a virtual space. In this paper, it is validated against case studies drawn from the “Ground Truth for Room Acoustical Simulation” database within a framework that includes source and receiver directivity. These aspects are often neglected but are respectively important to include for auralisation applications because source directivity is known to affect how a room is excited and because the human auditory system is sensitive to directional cues. The framework uses weighted-sums of spherical harmonic functions to represent both the source directivity to be simulated and the pressure field predicted in the vicinity of the receiver location, the coefficients of the former being fitted to measured directivity and those of the latter computed directly from the boundary data by evaluating a boundary integral. Three validation cases are presented, one of which includes a binaural receiver. The computed results match measurements closely for the two cases conducted in anechoic conditions but show some significant differences for the third room scenario; here, it is likely that uncertainty in boundary material data limited modelling accuracy.
Speech level parameters in very low and excessive reverberation measured with a contact-sensor-based device and a headworn microphone
Authors: Astolfi Arianna , Castellana Antonella , Puglisi Giuseppina Emma , Fugiglando Umberto , Carullo Alessio
Published: April 2019

This work deals with the effect of very low and excessive reverberation on speech sound pressure levels. Measurements were carried out in a semi-anechoic and reverberant room using a contact-sensor-based device fixed at the base of the neck and a headworn microphone placed at 2.5 cm from the speaker's mouth. Speakers produced short monologues and also described a map with the intent of correctly explaining directions to a listener 6 m away. A significant increase of about 2 dB in mean, equivalent, and mode speech levels in semi-anechoic compared to reverberant room was on average observed for the map description from recordings with the contact device, thus, highlighting an increased vocal intensity in dead rooms when the speech task had a communicative intent. Such reliable results were not found with the headworn microphone because speech levels were affected by noise recorded in the pauses. Particularly, the 30 ms logging interval brought to more severe errors in mode and mean speech levels compared to 1 s. When the pauses were removed and a logging interval of 30 ms was adopted, results were more consistent with those obtained with the contact sensor, but level differences between the two rooms still remained not significant.
Multimodal radiation impedance of a waveguide with arbitrary cross-sectional shape terminated in an infinite baffle
Authors: Blandin Rémi , Van Hirtum Annemie , Pelorson Xavier , Laboissière Rafael
Published: April 2019

Simulations of waveguide acoustics require a description of the boundary condition at the open end. For problems involving higher order transverse modes, it is often described by a multimodal radiation impedance matrix. Expressions for the computation of this matrix for an infinite flange condition are available only for circular and rectangular cross-sectional shapes. Thus, a general expression valid for arbitrary cross-sectional shapes is of interest. Such an expression is proposed, validated against known cases, and applied to an arbitrary cross-section shape. The solution is shown to be computationally efficient.
Performance of Three Common Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Genotyping Assays for Identification of HCV Genotype 2/1 Chimeras
Authors: Peiffer Kai-Henrik , Kuhnhenn Lisa , Stelzl Evelyn , Dietz Julia , Susser Simone , Tal Andrea Oliver , Finkelmeier Fabian , Zuckerman Eli , Cornberg Marcus , Barak Mira , Piazzolla Valeria , Mangia Alessandra , Zeuzem Stefan , Kessler Harald H. , Vermehren Johannes , Sarrazin Christoph
Published: April 2019

Besides seven major hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotypes (GT), a number of intergenotypic recombinant strains have been described. These so-called chimeras combine genetic characteristics of different HCV genotypes.
Enhanced Immunogenicity and Protective Efficacy of a
Campylobacter jejuni
Conjugate Vaccine Coadministered with Liposomes Containing Monophosphoryl Lipid A and QS-21
Authors: Ramakrishnan Amritha , Schumack Nina M. , Gariepy Christina L. , Eggleston Heather , Nunez Gladys , Espinoza Nereyda , Nieto Monica , Castillo Rosa , Rojas Jesus , McCoy Andrea J. , Beck Zoltan , Matyas Gary R. , Alving Carl R. , Guerry Patricia , Poly Frédéric , Laird Renee M.
Published: April 2019

Campylobacter jejuni
is a leading cause of diarrheal disease worldwide, and currently no preventative interventions are available.
C. jejuni
is an invasive mucosal pathogen that has a variety of polysaccharide structures on its surface, including a capsule. In phase 1 studies, a
C. jejuni
capsule conjugate vaccine was safe but poorly immunogenic when delivered alone or with aluminum hydroxide. Here, we report enhanced immunogenicity of the conjugate vaccine delivered with liposome adjuvants containing monophosphoryl lipid A without or with QS-21, known as ALF and ALFQ, respectively, in preclinical studies. Both liposome adjuvants significantly enhanced immunity in mice and nonhuman primates and improved protective efficacy of the vaccine compared to alum in a nonhuman primate
C. jejuni
diarrhea model, providing promising evidence that these potent adjuvant formulations may enhance immunogenicity in upcoming human studies with this
C. jejuni
conjugate and other malaria and HIV vaccine platforms.
Linear B Cell Epitopes Derived from the Multifunctional Surface Lipoprotein BBK32 as Targets for the Serodiagnosis of Lyme Disease
Authors: Toumanios Christina , Prisco Lauren , Dattwyler Raymond J. , Arnaboldi Paul M.
Published: April 2019

Lyme disease is an infectious disease that has the potential to cause significant morbidity with damage to nervous and musculoskeletal systems if left untreated. Appropriate antibiotic treatment during early infection prevents disease progression. Unfortunately, currently available diagnostics are suboptimal in the detection of early disease. The inability to confirm
Borrelia
infection using laboratory methods during early disease is, in part, responsible for much of the controversy surrounding Lyme disease today. As a result, there has been significant investment in the identification of new antigen targets to generate diagnostic assays that are more sensitive for the detection of early infection. The importance of our research is that in our evaluation of BBK32, an antigen that was previously identified as a promising target for use in serodiagnostics, we found a high degree of cross-reactivity that could compromise the specificity of assays that utilize this antigen, leading to false-positive diagnoses.
Antibiotic Resistance Gene Diversity and Virulence Gene Diversity Are Correlated in Human Gut and Environmental Microbiomes
Authors: Escudeiro Pedro , Pothier Joël , Dionisio Francisco , Nogueira Teresa
Published: April 2019

Every year, thousands of tons of antibiotics are used, not only in human and animal health but also as growth promoters in livestock. Consequently, during the last 75 years, antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains have been selected in human and environmental microbial communities. This implies that, even when pathogenic bacteria are the targets of antibiotics, hundreds of nonpathogenic bacterial species are also affected. Here, we performed a comparative study of environmental and human gut microbial communities issuing from different individuals and from distinct human populations across the world. We found that antibiotic resistance and pathogenicity are correlated and speculate that, by selecting for resistant bacteria, we may be selecting for more virulent strains as a side effect of antimicrobial therapy.
Atomic Force Microscopy Demonstrates that Candida glabrata Uses Three Epa Proteins To Mediate Adhesion to Abiotic Surfaces
Authors: Valotteau Claire , Prystopiuk Valeria , Cormack Brendan P. , Dufrêne Yves F.
Published: April 2019

Candida glabrata
cell wall proteins mediate the attachment of
C. glabrata
to abiotic surfaces through molecular interactions that are poorly understood. Here, we study the forces engaged in Epa-dependent adhesion using single-cell techniques. Fungal adhesion to hydrophilic and hydrophobic substrates involves mainly three Epa proteins, suggesting a broad role for the Epa adhesins in mediating adherence. These proteins might represent a potential target for the development of innovative antifungal drugs.
Individuals with migraine have a different dry eye symptom profile than individuals without migraine
Authors: Farhangi Monika , Diel Ryan J , Buse Dawn C , Huang Amy Michelle , Levitt Roy C , Sarantopoulos Constantine D , Felix Elizabeth R , Galor Anat
Published: April 2019

Background

Many individuals with migraine report symptoms of dry eye (DE). However, it is not known whether DE profiles are similar between individuals with and without migraine. To bridge this gap, we evaluated symptoms and signs of DE, including symptoms suggestive of nerve dysfunction, in a large group of individuals with DE symptoms, and compared profiles between individuals with migraine and those without migraine or headache.

Methods

Prospective cross-sectional study of individuals with DE symptoms seen at the Miami VA.

Results

Of 250 individuals, 31 met International Classification of Headache Disorders criteria for migraine based on a validated screen. Individuals with migraine were significantly younger (57 vs 62 years) and more likely to be female (26% vs 6%) than controls. Individuals with migraine had more severe DE symptoms and ocular pain compared with controls (mean Ocular Surface Disease Index 53.93 ± 21.76 vs 36.30 ± 22.90, p=0.0001; mean Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory modified for the Eye 39.39 ± 23.33 vs 21.86 ± 20.17, p=0.0001). The difference in symptom profile occurred despite similar ocular surface parameters between the groups.

Conclusions

Individuals with migraine had a different DE symptom yet a similar DE sign profile when compared with controls without migraine. This suggests that DE symptoms in individuals with migraine may be driven by nerve dysfunction as opposed to ocular surface abnormalities.
Safety of 6000 intravitreal dexamethasone implants
Authors: Rajesh Bindu , Zarranz-Ventura Javier , Fung Adrian T , Busch Catharina , Sahoo Niroj Kumar , Rodriguez-Valdes Patricio J , Sarao Valentina , Mishra Sanjay Kumar , Saatci A Osman , Udaondo Mirete Patricia , Querques Giuseppe , Farah Michel Eid , Lanzetta Paolo , Arevalo J Fernando , Kodjikian Laurent , Chhablani Jay
Published: April 2019

Purpose

To evaluate the real-life safety profile of intravitreal dexamethasone implant injection for various retinal conditions.

Methods

Retrospective multicenter analysis of intravitreal dexamethasone implant injections (700 µg) due to various retinal conditions including central retinal venous occlusion (1861 injections), diabetic macular oedema (3104 injections), post-surgical cystoid macular oedema (305 injections) and uveitis (381 injections). The eyes were evaluated mainly for the occurrence of adverse events such as glaucoma, cataract, retinal detachment and endophthalmitis along during the follow-up period.

Results

A total of 6015 injections in 2736 eyes of 1441 patients (mean age of 65.7±12.9 years) were in total analysed over an average period of 18 months (range 6 months to 102 months). A total of 576 eyes (32.5% of the phakic eyes) developed cataract requiring surgical intervention. However, visually insignificant cataract progression was observed in another 259 phakic eyes (14.6%) which did not require surgical removal. A total of 727 eyes (26.5%) experienced an intraocular pressure (IOP) rise of >25 mm Hg, with 155 eyes (5.67%) having a prior history of glaucoma and 572 eyes (20.9%) having new onset IOP rise. Overall, more than 90% of eyes with IOP rise were managed medically, and 0.5% eyes required filtering surgery. Endophthalmitis (0.07%), retinal detachment (0.03%) and vitreous haemorrhage (0.03%) were rare. There was no significant change in visual acuity (p=0.87) and central macular thickness (p=0.12) at the last follow-up.

Conclusion

This is the largest real-life study assessing the safety of intravitreal dexamethasone implant injections in various retinal conditions. Cataract progression and intraocular pressure rise are the most common side effects, but are often rather easily manageable.
Training curriculum to help patient representatives participate meaningfully in the development of clinical practice guidelines
Authors: Daraz Lubna , Webb Starr , Kunkle Rob , Murad Mohammad Hassan , Lang Eddy
Published: April 2019

Patient participation in the development of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) is critical for validity and trust. Many guideline panels now include patient representatives. Engagement of these individuals may be improved by training them about the process and their role before they join a guideline panel. To aid patient representatives in engagement in the improvement of guidelines, we developed and implemented a curriculum. The curriculum was developed based on content from the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Working Group and readability principles, and was delivered through a webinar followed by a face-to-face half a day workshop. Twenty-four patient representatives were recruited by the American Society of Hematology to serve on guideline panels. Barriers assessment was facilitated by a pre-curriculum survey. The curriculum targeted patient representatives’ knowledge, skills and attitudes and was followed by actual engagement in a guideline panel and a post-curriculum survey. Participants reported that the combination of the two training methods was very useful (9/10 on the Likert scale) in increasing their knowledge about guideline development. They agreed that their skills and self-efficacy in developing guidelines improved (8/10). Their attitudes (confidence in their ability to participate) improved by 30% between the webinar and the workshop. They developed a script to use during panel deliberations and an instruction sheet for the guideline panel about how to empower and engage them as active participants in the guideline development process. The benefits of incorporating patients’ voice in CPGs are multifold. These benefits may be optimised by providing patient representatives with training that addresses barriers to engagement and tools to increase their knowledge, skills and attitudes required for meaningful participation.
Improving patients’ ability to identify their physicians through the use of physician facecards and whiteboards
Authors: Wahlberg Kramer , Lambirth Shea , Gardner Zechariah
Published: April 2019

Background

Hospitalised patients are often not able to correctly identify members of their physician team. Identifying physicians is a critical component of developing the patient–physician relationship and visual aids have been shown to improve physician identification and overall patient satisfaction.

Objectives

The aim of this quality improvement study was to assess the impact of implementation of a physician facecard on the ability of patients to identify their attending physician and other members of the physician team, as well as to evaluate current use of patient whiteboards for physician team identification.

Methods

We prospectively studied 149 patients admitted to the medicine teaching service, who were randomised to receive a physician facecard or usual care. Patients were surveyed to determine their ability to identify physician team members. Observational data was also collected regarding use of patient whiteboards. Additionally, all hospitalists were surveyed to assess their perception of these visual aids.

Results

Patients who received the facecard were more likely to recall the name of the attending physician as compared with the control group (63% vs 32%, p<0.01). Additionally, 68% of patients with the attending name correctly listed on their whiteboard were able to correctly identify the attending physician (p<0.01). Ninety per cent of patients who both received a facecard and had their whiteboard correctly filled out were able to identify the attending physician. Eighty per cent of hospitalists surveyed agreed that use of the facecard added value and 90% disagreed that routine use of the facecard was burdensome.

Conclusion

The use of physician facecards improves the ability of hospitalised patients to identify their attending physicians, and the combined use of facecards and whiteboards may provide additive benefits.
The rise of hunger among low-income households: an analysis of the risks of food insecurity between 2004 and 2016 in a population-based study of UK adults
Authors: Loopstra Rachel , Reeves Aaron , Tarasuk Valerie
Published: April 2019

Background

Rising food bank use in the past decade in the UK raises questions about whether food insecurity has increased. Using the 2016 Food and You survey, we describe the magnitude and severity of the problem, examine characteristics associated with severity of food insecurity, and examine how vulnerability has changed among low-income households by comparing 2016 data to the 2004 Low Income Diet and Nutrition Survey.

Methods

The Food and You survey is a representative survey of adults living in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland (n=3118). Generalised ordered logistic regression models were used to examine how socioeconomic characteristics related to severity of food insecurity. Coarsened exact matching was used to match respondents to respondents in the 2004 survey. Logistic regression models were used to examine if food insecurity rose between survey years.

Results

20.7% (95% CI 18.7% to 22.8%) of adults experienced food insecurity in 2016, and 2.72% (95% CI 2.07% to 3.58%) were severely food insecure. Younger age, non-white ethnicity, low education, disability, unemployment, and low income were all associated with food insecurity, but only the latter three characteristics were associated with severe food insecurity. Controlling for socioeconomic variables, the probability of low-income adults being food insecure rose from 27.7% (95% CI 24.8% to 30.6 %) in 2004 to 45.8% (95% CI 41.6% to 49.9%) in 2016. The rise was most pronounced for people with disabilities.

Conclusions

Food insecurity affects economically deprived groups in the UK, but unemployment, disability and low income are characteristics specifically associated with severe food insecurity. Vulnerability to food insecurity has worsened among low-income adults since 2004, particularly among those with disabilities.
Human host defence peptide LL37 and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibody in early inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Hitchon Carol A , Meng Xiaobo , El Gabalawy Hani S , Larcombe Linda
Published: April 2019

Objective

Antibodies to citrullinated peptides (anti-CCP) develop in individuals predisposed to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Neutrophil extracellular traps are a major source of citrullinated antigens and the immunomodulatory host defence peptide LL-37. Vitamin D regulates LL-37 expression. This study assessed the associations of LL-37 and anti-CCP, vitamin D metabolites and vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms in early inflammatory arthritis (EIA).

Methods

Serum LL-37, 25-hydroxy-vitamin D (25OHvitD) and anti-CCP were measured by ELISA in treatment naïve EIA (n = 181). VDR single nucleotide polymorphisms (Fok1, Bsm1, Apa1, Taq1, Cdx-2) and HLADRB1 shared epitope (SE) alleles were detected by DNA amplification. Associations were tested in multivariable models. Median (25%, 75%) or percentiles are reported.

Results

Participants (70 % female, age 56 [45, 66] years, disease activity score [DAS28ESR3var] 3.7 [2.8, 4.8], 41 % anti-CCP positive, 68 % RA) had low serum 25OHvitD; 20.5 nmol/L (13.9, 29.0). In multivariable models, controlling for age, sex, SE, smoking and vitamin D deficiency, LL37 level (top quartile) associated with anti-CCP seropositivity (OR 22; 95% CI 4 to 104).

Conclusions

Levels of circulating LL-37 are associated with anti-CCP seropositivity. LL37 activity may be one mechanism linking infection and toxin exposure to anti-CCP generation.
Just Google it! Impact of media coverage of an outbreak of high-level azithromycin-resistantNeisseria gonorrhoeaeon online searches, and attendances, testing and diagnoses at sexual health clinics in England between 2015 and 2016: an interrupted time series analysis using surveillance data
Authors: Smolarchuk Christa , Mohammed Hamish , Furegato Martina , Town Katy , Fifer Helen , Wilson Janet , Nardone Anthony , Lee Andrew , Hughes Gwenda
Published: April 2019

Objectives

To determine if media coverage of an outbreak of high-level azithromycin-resistantNeisseria gonorrhoeae(HL-AziR) impacted online search interest or was temporally associated with health-seeking behaviours in several English cities.

Methods

A descriptive analysis of outbreak-related online media articles and relative search interest (RSI) using Google and an interrupted time series analysis using routine surveillance data from sexual health clinics (SHCs) in England (GUMCAD STI surveillance system). The main outcomes were adjusted incidence rate ratios (IRRs) of weekly attendances, gonorrhoea tests and diagnoses of gonorrhoea or ‘any STI’ in selected cities after media coverage of the outbreak in 2015 and 2016.

Results

RSI for outbreak-related terms peaked during media coverage in September 2015 with smaller peaks coinciding with subsequent coverage. The greatest increase in RSI was in Leeds, which coincided with a 63% rise (n=1932; IRR 1.26, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.43) in SHC attendances by women. There was only a 7% (n=1358; IRR 1.01, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.11) increase in attendances by men. Modest increases in outcomes occurred in four other cities with a high RSI. There was no evidence of increases in outcomes in cities, other than Leeds, after subsequent media coverage of the outbreak.

Conclusions

National and local media coverage of the HL-AziR outbreak coincided with peak RSI for related terms, and a transient increase in attendances, gonorrhoea tests and diagnoses of gonorrhoea or ‘any STI’ in some cities with a high RSI. Our analysis demonstrates the potential for media coverage to influence health-seeking behaviours during high-profile STI outbreaks.
‘The lesser devil you don’t know’: a qualitative study of smokers’ responses to messages communicating comparative risk of electronic and combusted cigarettes
Authors: Owusu Daniel , Lawley Rachel , Yang Bo , Henderson Katherine , Bethea Brittaney , LaRose Christopher , Stallworth Sam , Popova Lucy
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Communicating to smokers that e-cigarettes deliver lower levels of harmful chemicals than combusted cigarettes is a challenging issue. This study qualitatively explored smokers’ interpretations of messages communicating the risk of e-cigarettes relative to cigarettes (comparative risk messages).

Method

We developed 12 print comparative risk messages and evaluated them in 12 focus groups with 72 adult smokers (18+ years old) in Atlanta, Georgia.

Results

Participants interpreted uncertainty about health effects of e-cigarettes as an indicator of significant unknown risks, which some believed to be potentially more severe than the known effects of cigarettes (such as cancer and heart disease). Also, participants were sceptical about the lower risk claims. Some participants misinterpreted what ‘switching completely’ or ‘switching 100% of the time’ means, perceiving switching from e-cigarettes to combusted cigarettes as comparable with the use of both products. When chemicals in e-cigarettes were mentioned (eg, nicotine or formaldehyde), participants viewed e-cigarettes as very harmful and had difficulty reconciling this belief with the reduced risk claim. Comparative risk messages emphasising smoking risks were perceived as effective. Participants also appreciated being given an option to switch if they cannot quit. Participants suggested the inclusion of more facts and statistics and a credible message source (eg, public health agencies) to increase message effectiveness.

Conclusion

Comparative risk messages may be more acceptable to smokers if they show direct comparisons of the number of toxic chemicals in cigarettes and e-cigarettes, are attributed to a credible source(s), and emphasise smoking risks.
Endodontics: standard endodontic treatment of a discolored maxillary canine tooth in a dog
Authors: Thatcher Graham
Published: April 2019

Pulpitis and subsequent pulp necrosis results in tissue degradation by‐products causing staining of the dentin.This is a common cause of localised intrinsic staining of the teeth. Reversible pulpitis is a condition of pulpal inflammation in which the pulp can be returned to the normal state if the cause of the pulpitis is treated or removed; however, if this is not achieved, the condition will progress to irreversible pulpitis and pulp necrosis. If left untreated, a tooth with pulp necrosis can result in periapical abscess, radicular cyst, granuloma, fistula, osteomyelitis, pathological fracture, periodontal disease and tooth loss. The treatment options for a tooth with pulp necrosis include endodontic or exodontic therapy. The purpose of endodontic therapy is to alleviate pain and to treat or prevent inflammation and infection in order to preserve the tooth function. This case report describes the endodontic treatment of a discolored left maxillary canine tooth in a dog.
Computed tomography measurements of intraocular structures of the feline eye
Authors: Chandrakumar Shawn Sreenivasan , zur Linden Alex , Owen Mark , Pemberton Sarah , Pinard Chantale L , Matsuyama Arata , Poirier Valerie J
Published: April 2019

Diagnostic imaging of the eye can be performed using ultrasonography, MRI or CT. This study describes the CT dimensions, volumes and radiodensities of presumed normal feline intraocular structures. Nineteen adult patients were included in this retrospective study. Fourteen males and five females were included, with domestic short hair (DSH) being the predominant breed. Length, volume and radiodensity values for the lens, anterior chamber, vitreous chamber and optic nerve were calculated as well as measurements of the optic nerve width. There was no significant correlation found on linear regression analysis comparing patient's body weight with the various ocular measurements. Measurements of the lens, globe and optic nerve had significant differences (P<0.05) noted between the sexes, with males having increased values. These results may be skewed due to the large majority of male patients in the study. There was a weak correlation found between age and right eye (OD) optic nerve width, with an increase in the optic nerve width noted with increasing age. The findings of this study are a first step in establishing CT reference values for feline intraocular structure measurements.
Infection dynamics of porcine circovirus type 3 in longitudinally sampled pigs from four Spanish farms
Authors: Klaumann Francini , Correa‐Fiz Florencia , Sibila Marina , Núñez José Ignacio , Segalés Joaquim
Published: April 2019

Porcine circovirus type 3 (PCV‐3) is a recently discovered virus in domestic pigs and wild boar. The virus has been described in pigs with different clinical/pathological presentations and healthy animals, but the dynamics of infection is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to longitudinally monitor PCV‐3 infection in 152 pigs from four different healthy farms (A, B, C and D) by means of PCR in serum. The selected animals were sampled five (farm A) or six (farms B–D) times from weaning until the end of the fattening period. PCV‐3 genome was found in pigs from all tested ages and farms; few animals had an apparent long‐term infection (4–23 weeks). PCV‐3 frequency of detection remained fairly uniform along tested ages within farms A and C, but was more variable among sampling times in farms B and D. Eight partial genome sequences were obtained from six different animals. Phylogenetic tree and pairwise distance analysis showed high similarity among sequences and with available genomes from different countries. This is the first study on PCV‐3 infection dynamics in longitudinally sampled pigs. Most pigs got infection during their life, although PCV‐3 did not appear to be linked with any specific age.
Synthesis and antiproliferative evaluation of some iron chelators as polyamine transporter targeting agents
Authors: Nazifi Seyed Mohamad Reza , Sadeghi-aliabadi Hojjat , Fassihi Afshin , Aliomrani Mehdi , Saghaie Lotfollah
Published: April 2019

A series of kojic acid derivatives based on monoamines, diamines, and triamines have been synthesized in good yield and purity. A spermidine (spd) rescue experiment was applied against MCF-7 cells to evaluate the polyamine transporter selectivity, and in vitro antiproliferative effects were determined against Hela and DU-145 cell lines. Overall, 5b showed the best selectivity for the polyamine transporter and antiproliferative effects. Therefore, the in-silico metabolism profile and ADMET properties of the title compounds were calculated by the PreADMET server. Additionally, physicochemical properties of ligands were predicted by using the Molinspiration online property calculation server.
A visual dashboard to monitor BIM model dynamics
Authors: Abou-Ibrahim Hisham , Hamzeh Farook
Published: April 2019

The use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) is on the rise in the construction industry as more of its potential is being harnessed. The evolution of BIM models is a dynamic process where a project’s information is progressively developing during a project’s timeline. Although several studies track a project’s evolution from product and process perspectives, they do not necessarily track actual model dynamics occurring at the level of model elements for design management purposes. In this regard, this study introduces five variables to track changes witnessed across BIM model development using a visual dashboard designed to facilitate their interpretation and use by practitioners. The study applies the developed dashboard on an empirical case study project to test its usefulness and shortcomings. Results show that the dashboard can convey several design management aspects and can help design managers better maneuver the development of their designs.
Tight Bounds for Restricted Grid Scheduling
Authors: Boyar Joan , Ellen Faith
Published: April 2019

The following problem is considered: Items with integer sizes are given and variable sized bins arrive online. A bin must be used if there is still an item remaining which fits in it when the bin arrives. The goal is to minimize the total size of all the bins used. Previously, a lower bound of [Formula: see text] on the competitive ratio of this problem was achieved using items of size [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. For these item sizes and maximum bin size [Formula: see text], we obtain asymptotically matching upper and lower bounds, which vary depending on the ratio of the number of small items to the number of large items.
Double Circulant Self-Dual and LCD Codes Over ℤp2
Authors: Huang Daitao , Shi Minjia , Solé Patrick
Published: April 2019

We study double circulant LCD codes over [Formula: see text] for all odd primes [Formula: see text] and self-dual double circulant codes over [Formula: see text] for primes [Formula: see text]. We derive exact enumeration formulae, and asymptotic lower bounds on the minimum distance of the [Formula: see text]-ary images of these codes by the classical Gray maps.
Nonsingular Polynomials from Feedback Shift Registers
Authors: Xu Xiaofang , Li Chunlei , Zeng Xiangyong
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we present nonsingular permutation polynomials from nonsingular feedback shift registers and examine nonlinearity and algebraic degree of nonsingular polynomials of certain forms. The upper bound on the nonlinearity of nonsingular Boolean functions is investigated. We also present [Formula: see text]-variable nonsingular Boolean functions with algebraic degree [Formula: see text] and highest possible nonlinearity for odd [Formula: see text].
Classification of six-dimensional monotone symplectic manifolds admitting semifree circle actions I
Authors: Cho Yunhyung
Published: April 2019

Let [Formula: see text] be a six-dimensional closed monotone symplectic manifold admitting an effective semifree Hamiltonian [Formula: see text]-action. We show that if the minimal (or maximal) fixed component of the action is an isolated point, then [Formula: see text] is [Formula: see text]-equivariantly symplectomorphic to some Kähler Fano manifold [Formula: see text] with a certain holomorphic [Formula: see text]-action. We also give a complete list of all such Fano manifolds and describe all semifree [Formula: see text]-actions on them specifically.
Pseudodifferential calculus on noncommutative tori, II. Main properties
Authors: Ha Hyunsu , Lee Gihyun , Ponge Raphaël
Published: April 2019

This paper is the second part of a two-paper series whose aim is to give a detailed description of Connes’ pseudodifferential calculus on noncommutative [Formula: see text]-tori, [Formula: see text]. We make use of the tools introduced in the 1st part to deal with the main properties of pseudodifferential operators on noncommutative tori of any dimension [Formula: see text]. This includes the main results mentioned in [2, 5, 11]. We also obtain further results regarding action on Sobolev spaces, spectral theory of elliptic operators, and Schatten-class properties of pseudodifferential operators of negative order, including a trace-formula for pseudodifferential operators of order [Formula: see text].
Charged perfect fluid gravitational collapse in f(R, T) gravity
Authors: Abbas G. , Ahmed Riaz
Published: April 2019

We explore the problem of charged perfect fluid spherically symmetric gravitational collapse in f(R, T) gravity (R is Ricci scalar and T is the trace of energy–momentum tensor). We have taken the interior boundary of a star as spherically symmetric metric filled with the charged perfect fluid. In order to study charged perfect fluid collapse, we have investigated the exact solutions of the Maxwell–Einstein field equations solutions using the most simplified form for f(R, T) model f(R, T) = R + 2[Formula: see text]T, where [Formula: see text] is model parameter. This study involves the effects of charge as well as coupling parameter on collapse of a star. We studied the nature of trapped surfaces, apparent horizon and singularity structure in detail. It has been found that singularity is formed earlier than the apparent horizons, so the end state of gravitational collapse in this case is black hole.
New magnetic algorithm to detect community structure based on the magnets’ approach
Authors: Midoun Mohamed Amine , Wang Xingyuan
Published: April 2019

This research paper investigates areas of identifying the community structures which can help us to uncover organizational principles in complex networks. So far, a large number of algorithms have been introduced to discover the community structures, but the majority of these algorithms are suitable just for the unweighted networks. We present a new hierarchical method that identifies communities in weighted and unweighted networks based on the magnetic field. In our approach, the nodes are considered as a set of stationary/mobile magnetic nodes where these magnets can attract and repulse under the influence of an acting force. Based on the magnetic force between magnetic poles, we propose the law of node gravitation LNG and node repulsion LNR. Our method identifies a set of stationary magnetic nodes (SMNs). Each SMN attracts a group of mobile nodes and at the same time, they do not influence one another by any acting force. Then, we construct the stationary magnetic communities (SMCs) based on the law of community gravitation and repulsion. Our method finishes when all the magnets in the network become stationary. The experimental results are presented to prove the performance of our method in several real networks including weighted and unweighted networks.
A Meta-Analysis of the Surgical Availability and Morphology of the Plantaris Tendon
Authors: Yammine Kaissar , Saghie Said , Assi Chahine
Published: April 2019

Background: The tendon of the plantaris muscle (PM) is highly relevant in surgical practice. It is used as a graft for tendon/ligament repair or reconstruction in hand surgery whenever palmaris longus (PL) is lacking. Its occurrence in humans is reported to be high.

Methods: A meta-analysis based on cadaveric studies was conducted to quantitatively assess PM frequency and size.

Results: Data from 41 studies including 10062 leg specimens yielded the following: overall true prevalence ≈ 93%, overall crude prevalence = 90.6%, bilateral prevalence ≈ 92%, significantly more frequent on the right side, no gender significance, and no significant differences between ethnicities except that of Brazilian populations. The pooled mean length (± SD) of the PM tendon (PT) was 30.63 ± 5.87 cm and that of its width was 3.68 ± 1.37 mm. Pooled frequencies of the types of PT insertion are reported.

Conclusions: This meta-analysis demonstrated a higher prevalence of PM when compared to clinical PL frequency in the literature with a tendon length double than that of PL along with an acceptable width. The surgical availability of the PM tendon was found stable across human populations; a clinical advantage when compared to the high variability of PL ethnicity-based frequency. Our results indicate that the PT is of high clinical relevance as a reliable and suitable resource for tendon grafting and reconstruction.
A Subperiosteal Proximal Phalanx Osteoid Osteoma: A Challenging Diagnosis
Authors: Shubinets Valeriy , Ben-Amotz Oded , Steinberg David R.
Published: April 2019

A relatively rare tumor, osteoid osteoma most commonly affects the lower extremity. In 10% of the cases, it can affect the hand and wrist. We present a case of osteoid osteoma in the proximal phalanx of ring finger that was initially misdiagnosed as a soft tissue lesion. The soft tissue lesion was resected, but the symptoms recurred shortly thereafter, leading to repeat diagnostic workup. Despite X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging, and tissue biopsy, the diagnosis remained elusive until surgical re-exploration. Based on the lessons learned from this case and the experience reported in literature, we discuss the intricate nature of osteoid osteoma diagnosis in the hand, the obstacles often encountered, and how to approach these challenging patients in a stepwise and critical fashion.
HPC Asia is reborn
Authors: Boku Taisuke
Published: April 2019

After a ten-year hiatus, HPC Asia took place in January 2018 in Tokyo, Japan. HPC Asia is a SIGHPC in-cooperation event. We asked the steering committee chair, Taisuke Boku (University of Tsukba), to give us a brief history of HPC Asia and summary of this year's event.
Control of Meristem Size
Authors: Kitagawa Munenori , Jackson David
Published: April 2019

A fascinating feature of plant growth and development is that plants initiate organs continually throughout their lifespan. The ability to do this relies on specialized groups of pluripotent stem cells termed meristems, which allow for the elaboration of the shoot, root, and vascular systems. We now have a deep understanding of the genetic networks that control meristem initiation and stem cell maintenance, including the roles of receptors and their ligands, transcription factors, and integrated hormonal and chromatin control. This review describes these networks and discusses how this knowledge is being applied to improve crop productivity by increasing fruit size and seed number.
The Genomics of Oryza Species Provides Insights into Rice Domestication and Heterosis
Authors: Chen Erwang , Huang Xuehui , Tian Zhixi , Wing Rod A. , Han Bin
Published: April 2019

Here, we review recent progress in genetic and genomic studies of the diversity of Oryza species. In recent years, unlocking the genetic diversity of Oryza species has provided insights into the genomics of rice domestication, heterosis, and complex traits. Genome sequencing and analysis of numerous wild rice ( Oryza rufipogon) and Asian cultivated rice ( Oryza sativa) accessions have enabled the identification of genome-wide signatures of rice domestication and the unlocking of the origin of Asian cultivated rice. Moreover, similar studies on genome variations of African rice ( Oryza glaberrima) cultivars and their closely related wild progenitor Oryza barthii accessions have provided strong evidence to support a theory of independent domestication in African rice. Integrated genomic approaches have efficiently investigated many heterotic loci in hybrid rice underlying yield heterosis advantages and revealed the genomic architecture of rice heterosis. We conclude that in-depth unlocking of genetic variations among Oryza species will further enhance rice breeding.
Mediation Centrality in Adversarial Policy Networks
Authors: Herzog Stefan M. , Hills Thomas T.
Published: April 2019

Conflict resolution often involves mediators who understand the issues central to both sides of an argument. Mediators in complex networks represent key nodes that are connected to other key nodes in opposing subgraphs. Here we introduce a new metric, mediation centrality, for identifying good mediators in adversarial policy networks, such as the connections between individuals and their reasons for and against the support of controversial topics (e.g., state‐financed abortion). Using a process‐based account of reason mediation we construct bipartite adversarial policy networks and show how mediation defined over subgraph projections constrained to reasons representing opposing sides can be used to produce a measure of mediation centrality that is superior to centrality computed on the full network. We then empirically illustrate and test mediation centrality in a “policy fluency task,” where participants generated reasons for or against eight controversial policy issues (state‐subsidized abortion, bank bailouts, forced CO2 reduction, cannabis legalization, shortened naturalization, surrogate motherhood legalization, public smoking ban, and euthanasia legalization). We discuss how mediation centrality can be extended to adversarial policy networks with more than two positions and to other centrality measures.
Dyslipidemia Associated with Hypertension Increases the Risks for Coronary Heart Disease: A Case-Control Study in Harapan Kita Hospital, National Cardiovascular Center, Jakarta
Authors: Ariyanti Rea , Besral Besral
Published: April 2019

Background. Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) is the main highlight of the major cardiovascular diseases. In Indonesia, CHD is the leading cause of death from all deaths, with rates reaching 26.4%, which is four times greater than cancer mortality rates. Objective. This study aims to determine whether dyslipidemia associated with hypertension increases the risks for the incidence of CHD in Harapan Kita Hospital, National Cardiovascular Center, Jakarta, or does not. Methods. The study design was case control. The sample was 163 respondents, 82 respondents in the case group and 81 respondents in the control group. The data were analyzed by using logistic regression. Results. In the CHD group, the percentage of respondents with dyslipidemia was 50%, while in the control group, the percentage of respondents with dyslipidemia was 17.3%. The relationship of dyslipidemia with the incidence of CHD differed according to hypertension status. After being controlled for age, in hypertensive respondents, those with dyslipidemia was 18.1 times more likely to develop CHD compared with those nondyslipidemic, whereas in nonhypertensive respondents, those with dyslipidemia was 2.5 times more likely to develop CHD compared with those nondyslipidemic. Recommendation. It is recommended that the community have medical checkup regularly and change lifestyles by taking healthy diet to control lipid profile and blood pressure.
Loss of SDC1 Expression Is Associated with Poor Prognosis of Colorectal Cancer Patients in Northern China
Authors: Li Kaizhi , Li Lei , Wu Xiaoxiao , Yu Juan , Ma Hongjun , Zhang Renya , Li Yan , Wang Wei
Published: April 2019

Background. Syndecan-1 (SDC1/CD138) is a key cell surface adhesion molecule essential for maintaining cell morphology and the interactions with the surrounding microenvironment. SDC1 tumor immunoexpression may be increased or decreased in epithelial malignant neoplasms compared to that in adjacent non-neoplastic tissue, depending on the type of carcinoma, and it has been correlated with various clinicopathological parameters and patient prognosis. SDC1 expression is decreased in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissue, but the relationship between prognosis and SDC1 expression in CRC patients is controversial. Methods. In this study, SDC1 expression was detected in 65 adjacent non-neoplastic colorectal tissues, 477 CRCs, and 79 metastatic lymph nodes using tissue microarray. Results. The data show that SDC1 decreased in CRC tissues (p≤0.001) and metastatic lymph node tissues (p≤0.001) compared to that in adjacent non-neoplastic colorectal tissues. Loss of SDC1 protein expression is associated with poor overall (p<0.0001) and disease-free survival (p<0.0001), differentiation (p=0.017), stage (p≤0.001), and lymph node metastasis (p≤0.001) in CRC patients. Conclusions. These data suggest that the loss of SDC1 plays an important role in CRC malignant progression. Loss of SDC1 expression indicates poor prognosis in patients from northern China with CRC.
Effects of Beta-Blockers on Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in Dialysis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jin Jingjing , Guo Xiaoyang , Yu Qiyao
Published: April 2019

Background: The effects of beta-blockers are uncertain in dialysis patients. Except antihypertension, β-blockers may play a unique cardiovascular protective role in the population. This meta-analysis aimed to explore the effects of β-blockers therapy in adult patients treated with dialysis. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane library from inception to May 2018 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies about the role of β-blockers on all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, cardiovascular events, or hospitalizations in dialysis population. Results: Three RCTs and 9 observational studies met the predefined inclusion criteria. The RCTs showed significant association between β-blockers and reduced all-cause mortality (n = 363; risk ratio [RR] 0.73; 95% CI 0.54–0.97), cardiovascular mortality (n = 314; RR 0.44; 95% CI 0.29–0.68), cardiovascular events (n = 363; RR 0.52; 95% CI 0.31–0.88), or hospitalizations (n = 314; RR 0.61; 95% CI 0.48–0.78) in dialysis patients. The observational studies showed significant difference in all-cause mortality (n = 35,233; hazard ratio [HR] 0.86; 95% CI 0.80–0.92) between β-blockers and no β-blockers therapy in patients with dialysis, while the studies showed no difference in cardiovascular mortality (n = 19,413; HR 0.79; 95% CI 0.57–1.11), or cardiovascular events (n = 87,060; HR 0.79; 95% CI 0.50–1.26). Conclusions: β-blockers seem to be associated with reduced mortality in patients on dialysis. Both the statistical heterogeneity in observational studies and the small number of participants and studies in RCTs limit the strength of these findings. Video Journal Club “Cappuccino with Claudio Ronco” at  https://www.karger.com/Journal/ArticleNews/496083?sponsor=52