bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance enhancement of safety message communication via designing dynamic power control mechanisms in vehicular ad hoc networks
Authors: Alabbas Amjed Razzaq , Hassnawi Layth A. , Ilyas Muhammad , Pervaiz Haris , Abbasi Qammer H. , Bayat Oguz
Published: July 2020

In vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs), transmission power is a key factor in several performance measures, such as throughput, delay, and energy efficiency. Vehicle mobility in VANETs creates a highly dynamic topology that leads to a nontrivial task of maintaining connectivity due to rapid topology changes. Therefore, using fixed transmission power adversely affects VANET connectivity and leads to network performance degradation. New cross‐layer power control algorithms called (BL‐TPC 802.11MAC and DTPC 802.11 MAC) are designed, modeled, and evaluated in this paper. The designed algorithms can be deployed in smart cities, highway, and urban city roads. The designed algorithms improve VANET performance by adapting transmission power dynamically to improve network connectivity. The power adaptation is based on inspecting some network parameters, such as node density, network load, and media access control (MAC) queue state, and then deciding on the required power level. Obtained results indicate that the designed power control algorithm outperforms the traditional 802.11p MAC considering the number of received safety messages, network connectivity, network throughput, and the number of dropped safety messages. Consequently, improving network performance means enhancing the safety of vehicle drivers in smart cities, highway, and urban city.
Integrating co‐production and functional trait approaches for inclusive and scalable restoration solutions
Authors: Hastings Zoe , Ticktin Tamara , Botelho Mahealani , Reppun Nicholas , Kukea‐Shultz Kanekoa , Wong Maile , Melone Angelica , Bremer Leah
Published: July 2020

Calls for, and commitments to, forest restoration and regenerative agriculture are booming. While these practices are often conceptualized and implemented separately, in many contexts, research and practice at the intersection of forest restoration and diversified agriculture can accelerate the mutual goal of increasing biodiversity and ecosystem services on degraded lands. However, research on integrated forest‐agriculture practices, or agroforestry, often leaves out locally important native species and produces findings that are species‐specific, which together constrain research‐practice connections. We discuss a research design process that integrates two well‐established methods and allows for local customization in species selection, while also enabling study findings to be generalized to other sites. We illustrate this process through a case study from Hawai‘i and discuss the benefits, challenges, and potential further applications.
Security, Resilience and Participatory Urban Upgrading in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Hilgers Tina
Published: July 2020

In theory, security and resilience in contexts of violence and crime are improved by participatory urban upgrading. Yet, upgrading practices actually demonstrate how vulnerabilities to violence, insecurity and crime are reproduced by state–society and intra‐community power hierarchies. On the one hand, the priorities and perspectives of politicians and bureaucrats continue to take precedence over the needs and demands of residents of marginalized communities, undermining participation. On the other hand, the internal socio‐political structures of marginalized communities complicate the capacity and willingness of residents and external state actors to engage with each other. The result is that upgrading programmes are not particularly successful in ordering development and security or in creating resilience. Internal processes have a greater impact on residents’ choices in their daily struggles to survive and thrive, but the resilience they create is limited because power and resources tend to be centralized and sometimes linked to crime groups. This article uses the cases of Kingston (Jamaica) and São Paulo (Brazil) to highlight these power hierarchies and how they impede the resilience project of participatory urban upgrading processes in contexts of crime and violence.
Can anti‐dopamine D2 receptor autoantibodies explain fluctuations of tic severity?
Authors: Conceição Vasco A
Published: July 2020

This commentary is on the original article by Addabbo et al. on pages 1205–1212of this issue.
Knowledge and Forms in Plato's Educational Philosophy
Authors: Marshall Mason
Published: July 2020

In this essay, Mason Marshall argues that Plato's views on Forms play a central role in his educational philosophy. In response to what certain commentators have recently written, Marshall contends that this interpretation not only is accurate but also is advantageous because of how it can help philosophy of education. He also addresses the view, proposed by one philosopher of education, that Plato believes that the most valuable sort of knowledge cannot be fully expressed in words and that the objects of this knowledge are something other than transcendent Forms. Preferable to that view, Marshall argues, is the idea that Plato wants knowledge of Forms which is nonrepresentational.
Lights, power and the moral economy of early medieval Europe
Authors: Fouracre Paul
Published: July 2020

By the beginning of the early Middle Ages the convention that each church should have a light burning at all times on the altar was strongly established. This paper examines how elites promulgated this idea and benefitted from their ability to furnish lighting material (oil and wax) when this was becoming scarce and expensive. This seeming generosity helped to give the power of rulers a moral quality, but at the same time their insistence that to provide for the lights was a universal obligation meant that the social base of those who could provide for the lights broadened. It is argued here that growth in the number and types of people giving for the lights diluted the moral power that came from giving, but that it also allowed a much broader section of society to participate in the moral economy.
Family Science in the Context of the COVID‐19 Pandemic: Solutions and New Directions
Authors: Brock Rebecca L. , Laifer Lauren M.
Published: July 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has precipitated substantial global disruption and will continue to pose major challenges. In recognition of the challenges currently faced by family scientists, we share our perspectives about conducting family research in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic. There are two primary issues we address in this article. First, we present a range of potential solutions to challenges in research, resulting from the pandemic, and discuss strategies for preserving ongoing research efforts. We discuss approaches to scaling back existing protocols, share ideas for adapting laboratory‐based measures for online administration (e.g., using video chat platforms), and suggest strategies for addressing missing data and reduced sample size due to lower participation rates and funding restrictions. We also discuss the importance of measuring COVID‐19 relevant factors to use as controls or explore as moderators of primary hypotheses. Second, we discuss how the COVID‐19 pandemic represents a scientifically important context for understanding how families adjust and adapt to change and adversity. Increased stress precipitated by the pandemic, varying from acute stress associated with job loss to more chronic and enduring stress, will undoubtedly take a toll. We discuss ways that family scientists can contribute to pandemic‐related research to promote optimal family functioning and protect the health of family members.
Conserved ZZ/ZW sex chromosomes in Caribbean croaking geckos (Aristelliger: Sphaerodactylidae)
Authors: Keating Shannon E. , Griffing Aaron H. , Nielsen Stuart V. , Scantlebury Daniel P. , Gamble Tony
Published: July 2020

Current understanding of sex chromosome evolution is largely dependent on species with highly degenerated, heteromorphic sex chromosomes, but by studying species with recently evolved or morphologically indistinct sex chromosomes we can greatly increase our understanding of sex chromosome origins, degeneration and turnover. Here, we examine sex chromosome evolution and stability in the gecko genus Aristelliger. We used RADseq to identify sex‐specific markers and show that four Aristelliger species, spanning the phylogenetic breadth of the genus, share a conserved ZZ/ZW system syntenic with avian chromosome 2. These conserved sex chromosomes contrast with many other gecko sex chromosome systems by showing a degree of stability among a group known for its dynamic sex‐determining mechanisms. Cytogenetic data from A. expectatus revealed homomorphic sex chromosomes with an accumulation of repetitive elements on the W chromosome. Taken together, the large number of female‐specific A. praesignis RAD markers and the accumulation of repetitive DNA on the A. expectatus W karyotype suggest that the Z and W chromosomes are highly differentiated despite their overall morphological similarity. We discuss this paradoxical situation and suggest that it may, in fact, be common in many animal species.
Application of an improved distributed Xinanjiang hydrological model for flood prediction in a karst catchment in South‐Western China
Authors: Yang Wenzhe , Chen Lihua , Deng Fangfang , Lv Shuting
Published: July 2020

Hydrological processes in karst aquifer systems are controlled by highly permeable media, so studying flood processes in karst‐dominated regions is very important; however, it is still a challenge to model the hydrological dynamics in such strongly heterogeneous conditions. This study proposed a distributed Xinanjiang karst hydrological model (DXAJKHM) for simulating the flood processes in karst catchments, which was based on topographical information extracted from a digital elevation model. Considering the dual‐porosity in karst aquifer systems, the DXAJKHM was coupled with a traditional Xinanjiang conceptual hydrological model and utilized two karst reservoirs that simulated both the rapid underground run‐off and the slow underground run‐off in each grid cell. The uncertainty in the model parameters is estimated by the generalized likelihood uncertainty estimation method, and the parameters are determined by the shuffled complex evolution approach optimization algorithm. The simulation results demonstrated that the proposed DXAJKHM satisfactorily simulated the flood processes, and the model has better simulation effects for floods with larger flood peaks. In order to analyse the flood recession error, one run‐off signature index was employed to improve the model runs. This study thus provides a new approach to simulating and predicting floods in karst areas.
Long‐term outcomes after endoscopic submucosal dissection for differentiated‐type early gastric cancer that fulfilled expanded indication criteria: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Shichijo Satoki , Uedo Noriya , Kanesaka Takashi , Ohta Takashi , Nakagawa Kentaro , Shimamoto Yusaku , Ohmori Masayasu , Arao Masamichi , Iwatsubo Taro , Suzuki Sho , Matsuno Kenshi , Iwagami Hiroyoshi , Inoue Shuntaro , Matsuura Noriko , Maekawa Akira , Nakahira Hiroko , Yamamoto Sachiko , Takeuchi Yoji , Higashino Koji , Ishihara Ryu , Fukui Keisuke , Ito Yuri , Narahara Hiroyuki , Ishiguro Shingo , Iishi Hiroyasu
Published: July 2020

Background and Aim

Endoscopic resection for early gastric cancer (EGC) is widely performed. However, there is still a paucity of strong evidence regarding long‐term outcomes after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for the expanded indication criteria of the Japanese guidelines (ver. 2010).

Methods

Endoscopic submucosal dissection was performed in patients with EGC that met the expanded indication criteria: (i) cT1a, differentiated‐type EGC of 2 to 5 cm, ulcer negative or (ii) cT1a, differentiated‐type EGC of ≤3 cm, ulcer positive. Patients whose pathological examination fulfilled the curative resection criteria were then enrolled in this cohort study: negative vertical margin, negative lymphovascular invasion, and (i) pT1a, differentiated‐type, and ulcer negative; (ii) pT1a, differentiated‐type, ≤3 cm, and ulcer positive; or (iii) pT1b1 (<500‐μm submucosal invasion), differentiated‐type, and ≤3 cm. Patients with only a positive horizontal margin as a noncurative factor were included for follow‐up.

Results

From September 2003 to February 2012, a total of 356 patients underwent ESD, and 214 were enrolled in the survival analysis. One hundred twenty patients (56%) had >2 cm in diameter and ulcer‐negative lesions, and 94 (44%) had ≤3 cm and ulcer‐positive lesions. The vital status at 5 years after ESD was confirmed in all (100%) patients. No local or metastatic recurrence was detected; however, 26 metachronous gastric cancers developed, and 1 patient died of metachronous gastric cancer. The 5‐year disease‐specific and overall survival rates were 99.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 97.2%–100%) and 93.9% (95% CI, 89.8%–96.4%), respectively.

Conclusion

ESD for EGC that fulfills the expanded criteria is feasible and shows favorable long‐term outcomes.
Long‐term walking ability and patient satisfaction after lower limb functional surgery in patients affected by Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease: A retrospective study
Authors: Carantini Irene , Merlo Andrea , Esposito Donatella , Zerbinati Paolo , Gaiani Luca , Ferraro Francesco
Published: July 2020

Structural foot deformities consequent to Charcot Marie Tooth (CMT) can be treated by functional surgery (FS). This study aims to evaluate both long‐term walking ability and patients' satisfaction in CMT subjects who underwent FS during their lifetime. We conducted a retrospective observational study. Age, sex, CMT type, comprehensive surgical history, current walking ability assessed by the Walking Handicap Scale (WHS) and patients' global impression of change (pGIC) were retrieved from a custom database managed at our institution. WHS and pGIC were assessed between mid‐2018 and mid‐2019. Data from 79 patients were screened and 63 were included, 35W‐28M, mean age 42 (15), with demyelinating (75%), axonal (20%), and other types (5%) of CMT, who underwent FS between 1967 and 2018. FS evolved significantly over the years from bone‐related procedures (e.g., arthrodesis) to both bone and soft tissues‐related procedures. The re‐intervention rate decreased from 70% before 2000 to 32% in the last decade. Complications arose in five cases. FS was mainly performed on adults (73%). WHS was ≥ 5 in three‐quarters of the sample (range 1‐6) and was significantly affected by age groups in patients with demyelinating CMT (n=47, p<0.01, non‐parametric ANOVA). Nearly 80% of patients were satisfied with FS (pGIC ≥ 4). In conclusion, CMT subjects who underwent FS surgery maintained a high gait efficiency in the long‐term period, with middle to high levels of satisfaction in the majority of the cases. This confirms the validity of FS in the management of acquired foot deformities in CMT patients.
The pharmacists' contribution against opioid addiction
Authors: Wertheimer Albert I , Lai Leanne
Published: July 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate pharmacists' willingness to consider suggesting a non-narcotic NSAID medication instead of an opioid for patients requiring pain relief. Specifically, the study aimed to extend the vital role of the pharmacist in helping to alleviate the opioid crisis.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted by a University Continuing Pharmacy Education Office (response rate = 66%).

Key findings

Although 84.1% of respondents were willing to suggest NSAID replacement to patients, they appeared to be a bit less optimistic to patient's response, and only 13.5% of them felt that more than half of their patients would go along with the NSAID suggestion. There was no statistically significant difference in the responses of female and male pharmacists. The relatively older pharmacists tended to be more likely to consult their patients about this issue compared with younger pharmacists. This may be due to greater confidence that accompanies greater experience or the fact that they had longer relationships with their patients.

Conclusions

While opioid addiction occurs from numerous sources, the partial elimination of opioid prescriptions by pharmacists could possibly reduce in some modest way the total number of persons exposed to opioids.
Spousal Religiosity is Positively Associated with the Partner's Meaning in Life
Authors: Jung Jong Hyun
Published: July 2020

Past research has established that personal religiosity is positively associated with a sense of meaning in life. However, it has largely overlooked how religious others influence one's own life meaning. Given that a marital partner may be the most influential other in a person's everyday life, this study aims to examine how the religiosity of one's spouse is associated with the sense of meaning in life of the self, regardless of the religiosity of the self. Moreover, this study assesses whether this association differs by gender. Analysis of data from the 2006 Portraits of American Life Study reveals that spousal religiosity is positively associated with the partner's meaning in life, net of the partner's own religious commitment. However, these observed patterns do not vary by gender. Overall, these observations highlight the importance of social contexts in which others’ religious attributes are related to one's own meaning in life.
Keratinocytic epidermal nevi associated with localized fibro‐osseous lesions without hypophosphatemia
Authors: Mestach Lien , Polubothu Satyamaanasa , Calder Alistair , Denayer Ellen , Gholam Karolina , Legius Eric , Levtchenko Elena , Van Laethem An , Brems Hilde , Kinsler Veronica A. , Morren Marie‐Anne
Published: July 2020

Keratinocytic epidermal nevi (KEN) are characterized clinically by permanent hyperkeratosis in the distribution of Blaschko's lines and histologically by hyperplasia of epidermal keratinocytes. KEN with underlying RAS mutations have been associated with hypophosphatemic rickets and dysplastic bone lesions described as congenital cutaneous skeletal hypophosphatemia syndrome. Here, we describe two patients with keratinocytic epidermal nevi, in one associated with a papular nevus spilus, who presented with distinct localized congenital fibro‐osseous lesions in the lower leg, diagnosed on both radiology and histology as osteofibrous dysplasia, in the absence of hypophosphatemia or rickets, or significantly raised FGF23 levels but with distinct mosaic HRAS mutations. This expands the spectrum of cutaneous/skeletal mosaic RASopathies and alerts clinicians to the importance of evaluating for bony disease even in the absence of bone profile abnormalities.
“Eat, my child.” Obesity among children in developing countries: Evidence from South Africa
Authors: Minos Dimitrios
Published: July 2020

Childhood obesity in developing countries is a topic that has not yet been adequately covered in the literature. Although obesity is rising worldwide and is very present even among the poorest of households in developing countries, most of the attention is still given to industrialized ones. This exploratory paper utilizes the South African National Income Dynamics Study panel data set to highlight some of the aspects policymakers should bear in mind. In particular, policy options targeting mothers may not be appropriate in a developing setting. Higher attention should be given to caregivers instead. The results of the fixed effects probability regressions indicate that having a nonobese, well‐educated caregiver could potentially reduce the probability of a child being obese, thus informing policymakers about potential target groups and channels.
Motivation for Becoming a Teacher in Relation to Personal Characteristics of Students in the Context of John L. Holland’s Theory
Authors: Faltýnková Marie , Smetanová Veronika
Published: July 2020

This study is based on John L. Holland’s theory in which he defined six career personality types. Following this theory one of the aims of the study is to find out what is the percentage of individual types amongst students of pedagogical programmes. Further the research aims to discover how much are students of pedagogical programmes motivated to become teachers and what is the relation between the motivation to become a teacher and scores in scales of a Questionnaire of career choice and planning of professional career. We also attempted to identify the motivation related to gender and different pedagogical study programmes. The results show that the most motivated are students of Kindergarten teacher training and Primary school teacher training. Generally female students are more motivated than male students. From the personality types amongst students of pedagogical programmes the most common is Social type (S) and the least common is the Investigative type (I).
Subjective Point of View of a Student on Ways of Subject Matter Structure Creation by the Teacher
Authors: Gunišová Denisa , Duchovičová Jana
Published: July 2020

Authors in this contribution focus on issue of subject matter structure creation by the teacher as an important psycho-didactic domain of education process and how does a student perceive this structure. The aim of the teacher is not only to impart the knowledge to students but also to show them and teach them possible ways of how to understand the subject matter better and how to get to the fundamentals of it. Based on the structure of subject matter created by the teacher a student creates cognitive frames which become basis for his further learning. We pay attention to definition of epistemology of subject matter structure, questions of psycho-didactic approach to teaching, creating structure of subject matter and how does the teacher work with the text. Empirical part of the contribution investigates teachers' preferences of subject matter structure and statistically describes subjective perception of level of understanding of the subject matter by a student influenced by the particular subject matter structure realized by the teacher.
Basic Elements of Music-Rhythm, Melody, Harmony - from the Point of View of Alternative Waldorf Education and Psychological-neurological Point of View
Authors: Konvalinková Jana
Published: July 2020

Waldorf education consciously uses elements of rhythm in the life of a child along with rhythmical activities used for mastering the topics taught. Apart from phenomenon of rhythm also melody of voice, which Waldorf education defines both for the teacher's work and pupil’s development, is emphasized. It observes melodiousness of spoken and sung expression and since the first grade it thoroughly develops child’s strong relation to rhythm, melody and harmony in music. The contribution searches for support and defence of these pedagogical approaches and introduces rhythm, melody and harmony from the psychological-neurological point of view.
Effect of Shaft Diameter on the Hydrodynamic Torque of Butterfly Valve Disk
Authors: Lin Zhe , Yin Dapeng , Tao Junyu , Li Yi , Sun Jin , Zhu Zuchao
Published: July 2020

In this study, computational fluid dynamics (cfd) software and detached eddy simulation turbulence model were used to simulate butterfly valves with different designs. The effects of shaft diameters on the value and the fluctuation of valve disk torque were studied, and the physical reason was discussed. The simulation results were verified by comparing with the experimental data. The findings revealed that with the closing of the valve, the hydraulic torque of the valve disk first increases and then decreases. Meanwhile, the torque decreases gradually with the increase of the shaft diameter. The variation of torque is caused by the change of pressure on both sides of the valve disk. The result also indicates that the fluctuation of torque is induced by the flow separation phenomenon occurs on the valve disk. The fluctuation is significant for the valve opening from 20% to 60%. The strength of the torque fluctuation is greater for the smaller shaft diameter. This study provides a theoretical basis for the design and optimization of butterfly valves.
Active Control of Unsteady Cavitating Flows Over Hydrofoil
Authors: De Giorgi Maria Grazia , Fontanarosa Donato , Ficarella Antonio
Published: July 2020

A preliminary two-dimensional (2D) numerical investigation of the active control of unsteady cavitation by means of one single synthetic jet actuator (SJA) is presented. The investigation involves the cloud-cavitating flow of water around a NACA 0015 hydrofoil with an angle of attack of 8-deg and ambient conditions. The SJA locates on the suction side at a distance of 16% of the chord from the leading edge; it has been modeled by means of a user-defined velocity boundary conditions based on a sinusoidal waveform. A Eulerian homogeneous mixture model has been used, coupled with an extended Schnerr–Sauer cavitation model and a volume of fluid interface tracking method. As first, a sensitivity analysis allowed to evaluate the influence of the main control parameters, namely, the momentum coefficient Cμ, the dimensionless frequency F+, and the jet angle αjet. As a result, the best performing SJA configuration was retrieved at Cμ=0.0002, F+=0.309, and αjet=90 deg, which led to a reduction of both the average vapor content and the average torsional load in the measure of 34.6% and 17.8%. The analysis of the coupled dynamics between vapor cavity–vorticity and their proper orthogonal decomposition (POD)-based modal structures highlighted the benefit of the SJA lies in preventing the growth of a thick sheet cavity, which causes the development of the highly cavitating cloud dynamics after the cavity breakup. This is mainly due to an additional vorticity close to the hydrofoil surface just downstream the SJA, as well as a local pressure modification close the SJA during the blowing stroke.
Heaving Inverted Wing in Extreme Ground Effect
Authors: Jacuzzi Eric , Granlund Kenneth
Published: July 2020

An inverted single element was subjected to a sinusoidal heaving motion in both free flight and extreme ground effect, with the ground-effect simulations oscillating in various states of interaction with the peak lift ride height of the wing. Peak negative lift during the heaving cycle was greater than the static values at the same ground clearances, time, and ensemble averaging showed an overall reduction in the lift coefficient of 10–22%. An analytical model combining potential flow lift predictions and a new variation of the Goman–Khrabrov state-space model predicts the lift behavior of the wing-in-ground effect based on reduced frequency and ground clearance.
Cuerpos rituales. Los recortes de papel brujo y las enfermedades dentro de la cultura otomí
Authors: Delgado Ruiz Manuel
Published: July 2020

Para los otomíes de la Sierra, los bädis son las personas que curan, los curanderos, los brujos, los que sabe. Son los grandes conocedores del mundo y de los seres que lo habitan. Tienen la capacidad de hablar con los animales y con los dioses llamados Antiguas. Gracias a su conocimiento y su relación con las Antiguas, el bädi puede curar, enfermar, cantar en los Costumbres y transformase en animal. Pero la acción más destacada de bädi otomí es que él crea el mundo religioso y sagrado ñühü, es decir pequeños recortes llamados papel brujo o “muñecos” que albergan la fuerza de todo lo que existe en el mundo. En esta ponencia se define al curandero otomí a través de su acción más poderosa e importante que es recortar. Para esto hay que explicar qué recorta y para qué recorta el bädi ya que recorta todo lo que existe en el mundo otomí, las personas, los animales, las plantas, el sol, la luna, todas las Antiguas, en fin todo lo que puebla el cosmos otomí.
Masking of short tones in noise: Evidence for envelope-based, rather than energy-based detection
Authors: Jennings Skyler G. , Chen Jessica
Published: July 2020

The “temporal effect” in simultaneous masking may be characterized by better probe detection thresholds for a short, tonal probe presented at the temporal center of a masker compared to at the onset of a masker. Energy-based models of masking have been used to interpret the temporal effect as evidence that the gain of the auditory system decreases during acoustic stimulation. This study shows that masking from temporal-envelope fluctuations of a precursor or from a temporal gap between stimuli violates the assumptions of energy-based models and complicates the interpretation of temporal effects in terms of a reduction in gain. Detection thresholds were measured for a 6-ms, 4000-Hz probe preceded by a narrowband precursor and presented 2-, 197-, or 392-ms after the onset of a narrowband masker. The delay between the precursor offset and masker onset ranged from −2 to 250 ms. Probe thresholds were elevated in the presence of precursors with fluctuating compared to flattened temporal envelopes and when a temporal gap was inserted between the precursor and masker. The results suggest that the interpretation and design of temporal-effect studies should consider the masking effects of temporal-envelope fluctuations. These findings are consistent with speech-perception experiments that show masking from temporal-envelope fluctuations.
Risk Factors for Physical Inactivity Among Children With and Without Asthma Living in Peri-Urban Communities of Lima, Peru
Authors: Namburar Sathvik , Checkley William , Flores-Flores Oscar , Romero Karina M. , Fraser Katherine Tomaino , Hansel Nadia N. , Pollard Suzanne L. , _ _
Published: July 2020

Background: The authors sought to examine physical activity patterns among children with and without asthma in 2 peri-urban communities in Lima, Peru, to identify socioeconomic and demographic risk factors for physical inactivity and examine the relationship between asthma and physical activity. Methods: The authors measured mean steps per day in 114 children (49 with asthma and 65 without) using pedometers worn over a 1-week period. They also used the 3-day physical activity recall to determine the most common activities carried out by children. Results: The authors found that 84.2% of the children did not meet the daily international physical activity recommendations. Girls took significantly fewer mean steps per day as compared with boys (2258 fewer steps, 95% confidence interval, 1042–3474), but no other factors, including asthma status, showed significant differences in the mean daily steps. Mean daily steps were positively associated with higher socioeconomic status among girls, and current asthma had a larger inverse effect on daily steps in boys when compared with girls. Conclusion: Physical activity levels were below recommended guidelines in all children. There is a need for policy and neighborhood-level interventions to address low physical activity levels among Peruvian youth. Special focus should be given to increasing the physical activity levels in girls.
Functional anatomy of the full-length CXCR4-CXCL12 complex systematically dissected by quantitative model-guided mutagenesis
Authors: Stephens Bryan S. , Ngo Tony , Kufareva Irina , Handel Tracy M.
Published: July 2020

Multiple critical pairs of residues in the chemokine CXCL12 and its receptor CXCR4 mediate receptor activation and signaling.
Vaccination with Secreted Aspartyl Proteinase 2 Protein fromCandida parapsilosisCan Enhance Survival of Mice duringC. tropicalis-Mediated Systemic Candidiasis
Authors: Shukla Manisha , Rohatgi Soma
Published: July 2020

The rising incidence of non-albicansCandidaspecies globally, along with the emergence of drug resistance, is a cause for concern. This study investigated the protective efficacy of secreted aspartyl proteinase 2 (Sap2) in systemicC. tropicalisinfection. Vaccination with recombinant Sap2 (rSap2) protein fromC. parapsilosisenhanced survival of mice compared to rSap2 vaccinations fromC. albicans(P = 0.
Dispersal of Epithelium-Associated Pseudomonas aeruginosa Biofilms
Authors: Zemke Anna C. , D’Amico Emily J. , Snell Emily C. , Torres Angela M. , Kasturiarachi Naomi , Bomberger Jennifer M.
Published: July 2020

During chronic lung infections,
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
grows in highly antibiotic-tolerant communities called biofilms that are difficult for the host to clear. We have developed models for studying
P. aeruginosa
biofilm dispersal in environments that replicate key features of the airway. We found that mechanisms of biofilm dispersal in these models may employ alternative or additional signaling mechanisms, highlighting the importance of the growth environment in dispersal events. We have adapted the models to accommodate apical fluid flow, bacterial clinical isolates, antibiotics, and primary human airway epithelial cells, all of which are relevant to understanding bacterial behaviors in the context of human disease. We also examined dispersal agents in combination with commonly used antipseudomonal antibiotics and saw improved clearance when nitrite was combined with the antibiotic aztreonam.
Significance of early-diagenetic water-rock interactions in a modern marine siliciclastic/evaporite environment: Salina Ometepec, Baja California
Authors: Martini Anna M. , Walter Lynn M. , Lyons Timothy W. , Hover Victoria C. , Hansen John
Published: July 2020

Although marine brines are a significant component of pore waters in sedimentary basins, there are few geochemical studies of modern analogues of such systems, especially in siliciclastic settings. For these reasons, we chose the evaporite-associated siliciclastic sediments deposited in the salt flats of the Salina Ometepec, Baja California, for an integrated investigation of sediment, pore-water, and overlying brine geochemistry. Here, the detrital components include quartz, K-feldspar, plagioclase, chlorite, biotite, and smectite, and authigenic minerals are dominated by halite, gypsum, and K-rich magnesium smectite.

Thermal and saline stresses on the sediments of the Salina Ometepec keep both organic and inorganic carbon concentrations in the sediments unusually low relative to other coastal marine environments. Sediment pore waters exhibit little microbial sulfate reduction, and dissolved inorganic C contents are also very low. As a result, we did not observe carbonate and sulfide mineral authigenesis in the Salina Ometepec sediments. Instead, pore-water geochemical evolution is largely controlled by evaporative concentration of seawater, evaporite-mineral dissolution and recrystallization, and diagenetic alteration of detrital aluminosilicates.

Evaporite-mineral recycling affects the compositional evolution of surficial brines even before they infiltrate the sediment. Specifically, Na+ and Cl− concentrations are increased owing to halite dissolution. We see significant Br− enrichment relative to expected seawater evaporation trends in near-surface pore water, secondary to dissolution of K- and Mg salts. Because bacterial sulfate reduction is inhibited in the Salina Ometepec sediments, sulfate concentrations are more accurate indicators of the degree of evaporation than Br−, a usually conservative element during geochemical reactions.

Pore waters exhibit down-core increases in dissolved Mg2+, K+, and \batchmode \documentclass[fleqn,10pt,legalpaper]{article} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amsmath} \pagestyle{empty} \begin{document} \(H_{4}SiO_{4}^{0}\) \end{document} over the upper 1 m. Authigenic K-rich Mg-smectite formation is promoted by the concurrent processes of brine concentration, selective dissolution of K- and Mg-bearing salts, and dissolution of detrital aluminosilicates. Pore waters at a depth of 1 m have 87Sr/86Sr ratios that require input of Sr that is less radiogenic than that of Gulf of California seawater. This Sr is likely derived from weathering of detrital aluminosilicates from nearby volcaniclastic sources. These results show that significant chemical interactions among marine brines, evaporite minerals, and detrital aluminosilicates can occur relatively soon after sedimentation.
Eolian megaripple stripes
Authors: Gough Tyler , Hugenholtz Chris , Barchyn Thomas
Published: July 2020

We present observations, measurements, and modeling of an enigmatic eolian bedform pattern of cross-wind alternating, wind-parallel corridors of megaripples and smaller bedforms (“megaripple stripes”). Megaripple corridors have taller bedforms, longer wavelengths, and coarser surface sediment than intervening smaller bedform corridors. We document examples from Earth (Argentina, Namibia, United States, Iran, Peru, and China) and Mars. Using a reduced complexity model, we show that megaripples and megaripple stripes initiate under the influence of two eolian transport length scales: long-hop saltons and short-hop reptons. The self-organizing stripe pattern manifests in a narrow range of repton concentrations and develops into more typical megaripples as the surface repton concentration increases. We show that the three-dimensional topography of simulated megaripple stripes closely resembles natural megaripple stripes at Oceano Dunes, California, USA. By tracking repton surface concentration and spatial autocorrelation during simulations, we show that the striped pattern initiates from local repton concentrations of sufficient size to serve as megaripple nuclei that seed the striped pattern. Results suggest that megaripple stripes may have a simple and robust formation mechanism.
Time-evolving surface and subsurface signatures of Quaternary volcanism in the Cascades arc
Authors: O’Hara Daniel , Karlstrom Leif , Ramsey David W.
Published: July 2020

Increased resolution of data constraining topography and crustal structures provides new quantitative ways to assess province-scale surface-subsurface connections beneath volcanoes. We used a database of mapped vents to extract edifices with known epoch ages from digital elevation models (DEMs) in the Cascades arc (western North America), deriving volumes that likely represent ∼50% of total Quaternary eruptive output. Edifice volumes and spatial vent density correlate with diverse geophysical data that fingerprint magmatic influence in the upper crust. Variations in subsurface structures consistent with volcanism are common beneath Quaternary vents throughout the arc, but they are more strongly associated with younger vents. Geophysical magmatic signatures increase in the central and southern Cascade Range (Cascades), where eruptive output is largest and vents are closely spaced. Vents and correlated crustal structures, as well as temporal transitions in the degree of spatially localized versus distributed eruptions, define centers with lateral extents of ∼100 km throughout the arc, suggesting a time-evolving spatial focusing of magma ascent.
Simplified management of a giant forehead congenital nevus allows for early reconstruction
Authors: Topaz Moris , Gurevich Michael , Ashkenazi Itamar
Published: July 2020

We report simplified surgical management of giant congenital forehead nevus that customarily requires the use of tissue expander for complete excision. Commencing treatment at the age of 3 months, the TopClosure tension relief system (TRS) was applied as an external tissue expander allowing preoperative skin stretching by mechanical creep. This was followed by partial excision of the nevus. Intraoperative stress-relaxation allowed further expansion of the skin. Postoperative wound closure was secured with the aid of the TRS. Repeated, six simple staged excisions of the forehead lesion and a minor skin graft to the eyelid part, allowed for delayed primary closure of the entire lesion by the age of 2. This simple alternative approach, which allows the early start and early conclusion of the reconstructive process, should be considered as the primary option in the treatment of these patients.
Neurofibromatosis-associated pulmonary hypertension: an ominous duo
Authors: Coelho Sónia Gomes , Loureiro Maria José
Published: July 2020

The authors report a rare clinical case of a patient with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) complicated by pulmonary hypertension (PH), which presents with rapid progression. An exhaustive investigation was performed to identify the main aetiology of the PH. It was concluded that the PH could be associated with NF1, and so belonged in group 5 of the clinical classification of PH. In general, such patients have a poor long-term prognosis due to the inexistence of proven, effective treatment. Further studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms of NF1-associated PH.
Multiple splenic infarcts: unusual presentation of hereditary spherocytosis associated with acute Epstein-Barr virus infection
Authors: Thida Aye Mon , Ilonzo Ifeanyi , Gohari Pouyan
Published: July 2020

A 19-year-old African American woman presented to the emergency department with a history of left upper quadrant pain for a week, associated with nausea, malaise, loss of appetite, subjective fevers and chills. Her family history is significant for thalassemia in her maternal aunt, and hereditary spherocytosis in her brother, sister and cousin. A contrast-enhanced CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed massive splenomegaly and multiple splenic infarcts. On the second day of admission, she developed a fever of 103°F. Further evaluation revealed acute Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection and hereditary spherocytosis. Her condition improved after 4 days on piperacillin/tazobactam, intravenous fluids, analgesics and antipyretics. Our case report describes a thorough clinical evaluation of a patient with fever, anaemia, massive splenomegaly and multiple splenic infarcts. It highlights the need for careful interpretation of multiple positive IgM results on viral serological testing that often accompanies acute EBV infections.
Is intravitreal topotecan toxic to retinal function?
Authors: Nadelmann Jennifer , Francis Jasmine H , Brodie Scott E , Muca Engjel , Abramson David H
Published: July 2020

Background

Intravitreal injections of topotecan are used in the management of retinoblastoma with vitreous seeds. This study evaluated whether intravitreal topotecan was associated with retinal toxicity.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients with retinoblastoma who were treated with intravitreal topotecan at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center between December 2014 and May 2019. Electroretinogram (ERG) responses under anaesthesia were measured immediately before treatment with intravitreal topotecan and at the next visitor approximately one-month. Ocular toxicity was defined by a decrease in the ERG response at 30 Hz at follow-up.

Results

Ocular toxicity was evaluated by ERG on 50 evaluable injections administered to 28 eyes. 22 (44.0%) injections were performed with concurrent intravitreal melphalan. The median time to ERG measurement following an injection was 27 days. By using a paired t-test, intravitreal topotecan combined with melphalan (n=22) at a dose of 25 μg or 30 μg was associated with a significant decrease in ERG amplitude at follow-up (p=0.046, 95% CI −20.4 μV to −0.2 μV). Among eyes that only received topotecan (n=28) at doses of 20 μg or 30 μg, there was not a significant difference in ERG amplitude measured (p=0.85, 95% CI −7.0 μV to 5.8 μV).

Conclusion

Intravitreal topotecan combined with intravitreal melphalan was associated with a decrease in ERG amplitude; there was not a significant decrease in ERG amplitude observed in patients who received topotecan alone. These findings suggest that intravitreal topotecan injections at doses of 20 μg or 30 μg are not associated with retinal toxicity in patients with retinoblastoma.
Robotic versus laparoscopic ventral hernia repair: multicenter, blinded randomized controlled trial
Authors: Olavarria Oscar A , Bernardi Karla , Shah Shinil K , Wilson Todd D , Wei Shuyan , Pedroza Claudia , Avritscher Elenir B , Loor Michele M , Ko Tien C , Kao Lillian S , Liang Mike K
Published: July 2020

Objective

To determine whether robotic ventral hernia repair is associated with fewer days in the hospital 90 days after surgery compared with laparoscopic repair.

Design

Pragmatic, blinded randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Multidisciplinary hernia clinics in Houston, USA.

Participants

124 patients, deemed appropriate candidates for elective minimally invasive ventral hernia repair, consecutively presenting from April 2018 to February 2019.

Interventions

Robotic ventral hernia repair (n=65) versus laparoscopic ventral hernia repair (n=59).

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was number of days in hospital within 90 days after surgery. Secondary outcomes included emergency department visits, operating room time, wound complications, hernia recurrence, reoperation, abdominal wall quality of life, and costs from the healthcare system perspective. Outcomes were pre-specified before data collection began and analyzed as intention to treat.

Results

Patients from both groups were similar at baseline. Ninety day follow-up was completed in 123 (99%) patients. No evidence was seen of a difference in days in hospital between the two groups (median 0 v 0 days; relative rate 0.90, 95% confidence interval 0.37 to 2.19; P=0.82). For secondary outcomes, no differences were noted in emergency department visits, wound complications, hernia recurrence, or reoperation. However, robotic repair had longer operative duration (141 v 77 min; mean difference 62.89, 45.75 to 80.01; P≤0.001) and increased healthcare costs ($15 865 (£12 746; €14 125) v $12 955; cost ratio 1.21, 1.07 to 1.38; adjusted absolute cost difference $2767, $910 to $4626; P=0.004). Among patients with robotic ventral hernia repair, two had an enterotomy compared none with laparoscopic repair. The median one month postoperative improvement in abdominal wall quality of life was 3 with robotic ventral hernia repair compared with 15 following laparoscopic repair.

Conclusion

This study found no evidence of a difference in 90 day postoperative hospital days between robotic and laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. However, robotic repair increased operative duration and healthcare costs.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03490266.
Correlation between gastrointestinal symptoms and disease severity in patients with COVID-19: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Jing , Cui Min , Yang Tao , Yao Ping
Published: July 2020

Objective

To study the correlation between gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and disease severity in patients with COVID-19.

Design

We searched six databases including three Chinese and three English databases for all the published articles on COVID-19. Studies were screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The relevant data were extracted and all the statistical analyses were performed using Revman5.3.

Result

In a meta-analysis of 9 studies, comprising 3022 patients, 479 patients (13.7%, 95% CI 0.125 to 0.149) had severe disease and 624 patients (14.7%, 95% CI 0.136 to 0.159) had GI symptoms. Of 624 patients with GI symptoms, 118 patients had severe disease (20.5%, 95% CI 0.133 to 0.276) and of 2397 cases without GI symptoms, 361 patients had severe disease (18.2%, 95% CI 0.129 to 0.235). Comparing disease severity of patients with and without GI symptoms, the results indicated: I²=62%, OR=1.21, 95% CI 0.94 to 1.56, p=0.13; there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. The funnel plot was symmetrical with no publication bias.

Conclusion

Current results are not sufficient to demonstrate a significant correlation between GI symptoms and disease severity in patients with COVID-19.