bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Craft beer sector collaboration in North East Scotland: The role of individual success
Authors: Cunningham James , Barclay Stephanie
Published: April 2020

Our understanding of craft brewing is beginning to grow and a key theme to emerge from this artistic and intrinsically creative sector is the dependence on collaboration between entrepreneurial agents. In the North East of Scotland, the growth in craft beer is also recognised to come from a deep rooted collaboration, as a reaction to and in resistance of large mainstream competition. However, one such enterprise, BrewDog, has grown to achieve global reach to rival that of the large-scale brewers the craft scene sought to challenge. We consider what this unprecedented success means for the remaining collaborators in the local craft beer sector. Our findings point to a shared optimism and possibility of achievement among the craft brewers, aided by BrewDog’s success. However, the nature of collaboration is anchored more in community embeddedness and shared responsibility for market development, rather than in business growth and success replication. While the craft scene acknowledges the inspirational success of ‘one of their own’, strategic drive comes from more localised relations and a desire for independence. This has implications not only for craft beer but also on how collaboration among entrepreneurs sustains in respond to success from within the group.
Design guidelines for plastic casting using 3D printing
Authors: Zmarzły Paweł , Gogolewski Damian , Kozior Tomasz
Published: April 2020

The main aim of the presented tests was to assess the possibility of using 3D printing and casting material to produce casting molds and prototypes, especially in production of existing models. The analysis was based on the assessment of dimensional accuracy and quality of the surface layer of a finished prototype and the intermediate elements made during the production process. The mold was made using the PolyJet Matrix additive technology, and then a silicone mold was cast which was used to prepare a finished sample for testing in accordance with the design assumptions. Based on the results of metrological measurements, the phenomenon of technological inheritance in terms of error transfer in the foundry industry was evaluated. The measurements obtained suggest that in case of casting process, the hereditary features are transferred from individual casting processes, which is especially prominent in the case of surface texture quality. This confirms the occurrence of the phenomenon of the so-called technological inheritance and the need to analyze it. The results of the tests can be a guide for technologists who design molds, core boxes, and casting models, concerning the corrections (shrinkage) that need to be introduced at the design stage in order to obtain a product (casting) of satisfactory dimensional accuracy and quality of the surface layer. The result can also be useful for casting materials reinforced with glass fiber, carbon fiber, which are common materials in 3D printing and textile industry.
Active collaboration in relative observation for multi-agent visual simultaneous localization and mapping based on Deep Q Network
Authors: Pei Zhaoyi , Piao Songhao , Quan Meixiang , Qadir Muhammad Zuhair , Li Guo
Published: April 2020

This article proposes a unique active relative localization mechanism for multi-agent simultaneous localization and mapping, in which an agent to be observed is considered as a task, and the others who want to assist that agent will perform that task by relative observation. A task allocation algorithm based on deep reinforcement learning is proposed for this mechanism. Each agent can choose whether to localize other agents or to continue independent simultaneous localization and mapping on its own initiative. By this way, the process of each agent simultaneous localization and mapping will be interacted by the collaboration. Firstly, a unique observation function which models the whole multi-agent system is obtained based on ORBSLAM. Secondly, a novel type of Deep Q Network called multi-agent systemDeep Q Network (MAS-DQN) is deployed to learn correspondence between Q value and state–action pair, abstract representation of agents in multi-agent system is learned in the process of collaboration among agents. Finally, each agent must act with a certain degree of freedom according to MAS-DQN. The simulation results of comparative experiments prove that this mechanism improves the efficiency of cooperation in the process of multi-agent simultaneous localization and mapping.
‘Railroad switch’ technique for stent-assisted coil embolization of a wide-neck bifurcation intracranial aneurysm: technical note
Authors: Heiferman Daniel M , Reynolds Matthew R , Reddy Arra S , Serrone Joseph C
Published: April 2020

Preservation of the posterior cerebral arteries during endovascular treatment of wide-neck basilar bifurcation aneurysms remains a technical challenge despite recent device innovations. We present a novel stent deployment technique, the ‘railroad switch’, to protect both posterior cerebral arteries during treatment of a recurrent basilar bifurcation aneurysm. Following asymmetric basilar–posterior cerebral artery stent deployment, favoring distal placement in a posterior cerebral artery, advancement of a jailed microcatheter will advance the proximal stent into the aneurysm, protecting both posterior cerebral arteries and the native basilar terminus. This novel maneuver offers interventionalists another application of commonly used intracranial stents for endovascular management of complex basilar bifurcation aneurysms.
Multidisciplinary care in Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Authors: Shanbhag Swapna S. , Chodosh James , Fathy Cherie , Goverman Jeremy , Mitchell Caroline , Saeed Hajirah N.
Published: April 2020

Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) are potentially fatal mucocutaneous diseases that can involve many organ systems. Manifestations of SJS/TEN outside of the skin, eyes, and oral mucosa are not well defined or well recognized, and, therefore, are often not addressed clinically. As supportive care improves and mortality from SJS/TEN decreases, chronic complications in affected organ systems are becoming more prevalent. Recognition of the manifestations of SJS/TEN in the acute phase is critical to optimal care. In this review, we review the organ systems that may be involved in SJS/TEN, provide an overview of their management, and propose a list of items that should be communicated to the patient and family upon discharge. The organ systems discussed include the pulmonary, gastrointestinal/hepatic, oral, otorhinolaryngologic, gynecologic, genitourinary, and renal systems. In addition, the significant psychosocial, nutritional, and pain consequences and management of SJS/TEN are discussed.
From talented child to elite athlete: The development of cardiac morphology and function in a cohort of endurance athletes from age 12 to 18
Authors: Bjerring Anders W , Landgraff Hege E W , Leirstein Svein , Haugaa Kristina H , Edvardsen Thor , Sarvari Sebastian I , Hallén Jostein
Published: April 2020

Background

Adult athletes undergo cardiac adaptions in what is known as the “athlete’s heart”. Cardiac adaptations in young athletes have not been described in longitudinal studies but have previously been believed to be uniform in nature.

Methods

Seventy-six cross-country skiers were assessed at age 12. Forty-eight (63%) completed the first follow-up at age 15 and 36 (47%) the second follow-up at age 18. Comprehensive exercise data were collected. Echocardiography with three-dimensional measurements and cardiopulmonary exercise testing were performed at all time points. The cohort was divided into active and former endurance athletes, with an eight hours of weekly endurance exercise cut-off at age 18.

Results

The athletes underwent eccentric remodelling between ages 12 and 15, and concentric remodelling between ages 15 and 18. At age 18, the active endurance athletes had greater increases in inter-ventricular wall thickness (1.8 ± 1.4 Δmm vs 0.6 ± 1.0 Δmm, p < 0.05), left ventricular (LV) posterior wall thickness (1.6 ± 1.2 Δmm vs 0.8 ± 0.8 Δmm, p < 0.05), LV mass (63 ± 30 Δg vs 27 ± 21 Δg, p < 0.01), right ventricular (RV) end-diastolic area (3.4 ± 4.0 Δcm2 vs 0.6 ± 3.5Δ cm2, p < 0.05), RV end-systolic area (1.0 ± 2.3 Δcm2 vs –0.9 ± 2.0 Δcm2, p < 0.05) and left atrial volume (24 ± 21 ΔmL vs 6±10 ΔmL, p < 0.05) and had greater indexed maximal oxygen uptake (66.3 ± 7.4 mL/min/kg vs 57.1 ± 8.2 mL/min/kg, p < 0.01). There was no significant difference for LV volumes.

Conclusion

This study finds a shift in the development of the young athlete’s heart. Between ages 12 and 15, the active endurance athletes underwent eccentric remodelling. This dynamic switched to concentric remodelling between ages 15 and 18.
Effects of Antiplatelet and Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Medications on Platelet-Rich Plasma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Frey Christopher , Yeh Peter Chia , Jayaram Prathap
Published: April 2020

Background:

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has wide applications in orthopaedic care. Its beneficial effects are attributed to the growth factor profile from the platelet secretome. In theory, these effects would be diminished by medications that inhibit platelet activation and/or the subsequent release of growth factors.

Purpose:

To determine whether commonly used antiplatelets, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or anticoagulant medications affect platelet growth factor release in PRP.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 2.

Method:

A systematic review of the literature related to antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory, and anticoagulant drugs was performed following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We used the Downs and Black objective quality scoring system. The literature search consisted of PubMed and Cochrane Library databases. Search terms consisted of 1 item selected from “platelet-rich plasma,” “platelet-derived growth factor,” and “platelet-rich plasma AND growth factor” combined with 1 item from “antiplatelet,” “aspirin,” “anticoagulant,” and “NSAID.” Only studies published within the past 25 years were included.

Results:

A total of 15 studies met the inclusion criteria: 7 studies detected no significant decrease in growth factors or mitogenesis, whereas 6 detected a decrease with antiplatelet agents, 1 detected mixed results with an antiplatelet agent, and 1 had mixed results with an antiplatelet agent/vasodilator. In terms of PRP activation, all 3 studies assessing collagen, the 2 studies analyzing adenosine diphosphate alone, and the 1 study investigating arachidonic acid found a decrease in growth factor concentration.

Conclusion:

Antiplatelet medications may decrease the growth factor release profile in a cyclooxygenase 1– and cyclooxygenase 2–dependent manner. Eight of 15 studies found a decrease in growth factors or mitogenesis. However, more studies are needed to comprehensively understand antiplatelet effects on the PRP secretome.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Patients Older Than 50 Years: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Tan Chong-Wei , Hsu Wei-Hsiu , Yu Pei-An , Chen Chi-Lung , Kuo Liang-Tseng , Chi Ching-Chi , Kim Dokyung , Park Geon
Published: April 2020

Background:

There is no consensus regarding the best treatment approach for middle-aged patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Chronic ACL-deficient knees are often associated with instability as well as secondary meniscal and cartilage lesions. ACL reconstruction (ACLR) has achieved satisfactory outcomes in younger patients; however, the effectiveness and safety of ACLR in middle-aged patients remain uncertain.

Purpose:

To compare the patient-reported functional scores, arthrometric outcomes, and complications of primary ACLR between older (≥50 years) and younger (<50 years) patients.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review of cohort studies that compared the clinical outcomes of ACLR between patients aged ≥50 years and those aged <50 years. The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, and MEDLINE databases were searched for relevant studies. The Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria was used to assess the risk of bias and conducted a random-effects meta-analysis to combine the data, and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach was used to evaluate the overall quality of the body of retrieved evidence. The primary outcome was knee functional outcomes, and secondary outcomes were arthrometric outcomes of ACLR and complications.

Results:

This study included 4 retrospective cohort studies with a total of 287 participants (129 in the older group and 158 in the younger group). All included studies reported significant improvements in clinical outcomes in both groups after ACLR. No significant differences were noted in the improvement of International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores (mean difference [MD], 0.20 [95% CI, −2.65 to 3.05]; P = .89) and Lysholm scores (MD, −1.98 [95% CI, −6.93 to 2.98]; P = .43) between the 2 groups. No significant differences were observed in anteroposterior stability or risk of complications between the groups.

Conclusion:

ACLR may be performed in middle-aged patients (≥50 years) without concern for inferior clinical and arthrometric results compared with younger patients (<50 years).
Headache medication and the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: MaassenVanDenBrink Antoinette , de Vries Tessa , Danser A. H. Jan
Published: April 2020

The world is currently dominated by the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Besides the obvious concerns about limitation of virus spread and providing the best possible care to infected patients, a concomitant concern has now arisen in view of a putative link between the use of certain drugs, such as Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) inhibitors and ibuprofen, and an increased risk for COVID-19 infection. We here discuss this concern in relation to headache treatment and conclude that, based on current evidence, there is no reason to abandon treatment of headache patients with RAS inhibitors or ibuprofen.
A global real-world assessment of the impact on health-related quality of life and work productivity of migraine in patients with insufficient versus good response to triptan medication
Authors: Lombard Louise , Farrar Mallory , Ye Wenyu , Kim Yongin , Cotton Sarah , Buchanan Andrew S. , Jackson James , Joshi Shivang
Published: April 2020

Background

Migraine is a chronic, disabling neurological disease characterized by moderate-to-severe headache pain with other symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and photophobia. Triptans, while generally effective, are insufficiently efficacious in 30–40% of patients and poorly tolerated by or contraindicated in others. We assessed the impact of insufficient response to triptans on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and work productivity in patients currently receiving any prescribed triptan formulation as their only acute migraine medication.

Methods

Data were from the 2017 Adelphi Migraine Disease Specific Programme, a cross-sectional survey of primary care physicians, neurologists, and headache specialists and their consulting patients with migraine in the USA, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and UK. Triptan insufficient responders (TIRs) achieved freedom from headache pain within 2 h of acute treatment in ≤3/5 migraine attacks; triptan responders (TRs) achieved pain freedom within 2 h in ≥4/5 attacks. Multivariable general linear model examined differences between TIRs and TRs in HRQoL and work productivity. Logistic regression identified factors associated with insufficient response to triptans.

Results

The study included 1413 triptan-treated patients (TIRs:n = 483, 34.2%; TRs:n = 930, 65.8%). TIRs were more likely to be female (76% vs. 70% for TIRs vs TRs, respectively;p = 0.011), older (mean age 42.6 vs. 40.5 years;p = 0.003), and had more headache days/month (7.0 vs. 4.4;p < 0.001). TIRs had significantly more disability, with higher Migraine Disability Scores (MIDAS; 13.2 vs. 7.7; p < 0.001), lower Migraine-specific Quality of Life scores, indicating greater impact (Role Function Restrictive: 62.4 vs. 74.5; Role Function Preventive: 70.0 vs. 82.2; Emotional Function: 67.7 vs. 82.1; allp < 0.001), and lower EQ5D utility scores (0.84 vs. 0.91;p = 0.001). Work productivity and activity were impaired (absenteeism, 8.6% vs. 5.1% for TIRs vs. TRs; presenteeism, 34.3% vs. 21.0%; work impairment, 37.1% vs. 23.3%; overall activity impairment, 39.8% vs. 25.3%; allp < 0.05).

Conclusion

HRQoL and work productivity were significantly impacted in TIRs versus TRs in this real-world analysis of patients with migraine acutely treated with triptans, highlighting the need for more effective treatments for patients with an insufficient triptan response. Further research is needed to establish causal relationships between insufficient response and these outcomes.
Hyaluronic Acid-Functionalized Gadolinium Oxide Nanoparticles for Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Radiotherapy of Tumors
Authors: Wu Chaoyang , Cai Rong , Zhao Tian , Wu Lin , Zhang Lirong , Jin Jie , Xu Lixia , Li Pengfei , Li Tao , Zhang Miaomiao , Du Fengyi
Published: April 2020

Inaccuracy localization and intrinsic radioresistance of solid tumors seriously hindered the clinical implementation of radiotherapy. In this study, we fabricated hyaluronic acid-functionalized gadolinium oxide nanoparticles (HA-Gd2O3 NPs) via one-pot hydrothermal process for effective magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and radiosensitization of tumors. By virtue of HA functionalization, the as-prepared HA-Gd2O3 NPs with a diameter of 105 nm showed favorable dispersibility in water, low cytotoxicity, and excellent biocompatibility and readily entered into the cytoplasm of cancer cells by HA receptor-mediated endocytosis. Importantly, HA-Gd2O3 NPs exhibited high longitudinal relaxivity (r1) 6.0 mM−1S−1 as MRI contrast agents and radiosensitization enhancement in a dose-dependent manner. These finds demonstrated that as-synthesized HA-Gd2O3 NPs as bifunctional theranostic agents have great potential in tumors diagnosis and radiotherapy.
Application of Self-Organizing Maps on Time Series Data for identifying interpretable Driving Manoeuvres
Authors: Lakshminarayanan Sivakkumaran
Published: April 2020

Driving manoeuvre identification with Self-organizing Maps

Understanding the usage of a product is essential for any manufacturer in particular for further development. Driving style of the driver is a significant factor in the usage of a city bus. This work proposes a new method to observe various driving manoeuvres in regular operations and identify the patterns in these manoeuvres. The significant advance in this method over other engineering approaches is the use of uncompressed data instead of transformations into certain Performance indicators. Here, the time series inputs were preserved and prepared as 10-second-frames using a sliding window technique and fed into Kohonen’s Self-organizing Map (SOM) algorithm. This produced a high accuracy in the identification and classification of maneuvres and at the same time to a highly interpretable solution that can be readily used for suggesting improvements.

Driving Style Comparison

The proposed method is applied to comparing the driving styles of two drivers driving in a similar environment; the differences are illustrated using frequency distributions of identified manoeuvres and then interpreted for the amelioration of fuel consumption.
A single-model quality assessment method for poor quality protein structure
Authors: Ouyang Jianquan , Huang Ningqiao , Jiang Yunqi
Published: April 2020

Background

Quality assessment of protein tertiary structure prediction models, in which structures of the best quality are selected from decoys, is a major challenge in protein structure prediction, and is crucial to determine a model’s utility and potential applications. Estimating the quality of a single model predicts the model’s quality based on the single model itself. In general, the Pearson correlation value of the quality assessment method increases in tandem with an increase in the quality of the model pool. However, there is no consensus regarding the best method to select a few good models from the poor quality model pool.

Results

We introduce a novel single-model quality assessment method for poor quality models that uses simple linear combinations of six features. We perform weighted search and linear regression on a large dataset of models from the 12th Critical Assessment of Protein Structure Prediction (CASP12) and benchmark the results on CASP13 models. We demonstrate that our method achieves outstanding performance on poor quality models.

Conclusions

According to results of poor protein structure assessment based on six features, contact prediction and relying on fewer prediction features can improve selection accuracy.
A cost-sensitive online learning method for peptide identification
Authors: Liang Xijun , Xia Zhonghang , Jian Ling , Wang Yongxiang , Niu Xinnan , Link Andrew J.
Published: April 2020

Background

Post-database search is a key procedure in peptide identification with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) strategies for refining peptide-spectrum matches (PSMs) generated by database search engines. Although many statistical and machine learning-based methods have been developed to improve the accuracy of peptide identification, the challenge remains on large-scale datasets and datasets with a distribution of unbalanced PSMs. A more efficient learning strategy is required for improving the accuracy of peptide identification on challenging datasets. While complex learning models have larger power of classification, they may cause overfitting problems and introduce computational complexity on large-scale datasets. Kernel methods map data from the sample space to high dimensional spaces where data relationships can be simplified for modeling.

Results

In order to tackle the computational challenge of using the kernel-based learning model for practical peptide identification problems, we present an online learning algorithm, OLCS-Ranker, which iteratively feeds only one training sample into the learning model at each round, and, as a result, the memory requirement for computation is significantly reduced. Meanwhile, we propose a cost-sensitive learning model for OLCS-Ranker by using a larger loss of decoy PSMs than that of target PSMs in the loss function.

Conclusions

The new model can reduce its false discovery rate on datasets with a distribution of unbalanced PSMs. Experimental studies show that OLCS-Ranker outperforms other methods in terms of accuracy and stability, especially on datasets with a distribution of unbalanced PSMs. Furthermore, OLCS-Ranker is 15–85 times faster than CRanker.
Molecular typing of multi-drug resistant Acinetobacter baumannii isolates from clinical and environmental specimens in three Iranian hospitals by pulsed field gel electrophoresis
Authors: Mohammadi Bardbari Ali , Mohajeri Parviz , Arabestani Mohammad Reza , Karami Manoochehr , Keramat Fariba , Asadollahi Saba , Khodavirdipour Amir , Alikhani Mohammad Yousef
Published: April 2020

Background

Multi-drug resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii is one of the most important causes of nosocomial infections. The purpose of this study was to identify antibiotic resistance patterns, biofilm formation and the clonal relationship of clinical and environmental isolates of A. baumannii by Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis method. Forty-three clinical and 26 environmental isolates of the MDR A. baumannii were collected and recognized via API 20NE. Antibiotic resistance of the isolates was assessed by the disk diffusion method, and the biofilm formation test was done by the microtiter plate method. Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE) was used to assess the genomic features of the bacterial isolates.

Results

The resistance rate of clinical and environmental isolates against antibiotics were from 95 to 100%. The difference in antibiotic resistance rates between clinical and environmental isolates was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Biofilm production capabilities revealed that 31 (44.9%), and 30 (43.5%) isolates had strong and moderate biofilm producer activity, respectively. PFGE typing exhibited eight different clusters (A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and H) with two significant clusters included A and G with 21 (30.4%) and 16 (23.2%) members respectively, which comprises up to 53.6% of all isolates. There was no relationship between biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance patterns with PFGE pulsotypes.

Conclusions

The results show that there is a close relationship between environmental and clinical isolates of A. baumannii. Cross-contamination is also very important that occurs through daily clinical activities between environmental and clinical isolates. Therefore, in order to reduce the clonal contamination of MDR A. baumannii environmental and clinical isolates, it is necessary to use strict infection control strategies.
Gene expression and genetic control to cold tolerance during maize seed germination
Authors: Costa Silva Neta Izabel , Vilela de Resende Von Pinho Édila , de Abreu Viviane Maria , Rezende Vilela Danielle , Santos Milena Christy , Oliveira dos Santos Heloisa , Diniz Cabral Ferreira Ricardo Augusto , Garcia Von Pinho Renzo , Coelho de Castro Vasconcellos Renato
Published: April 2020

Background

The study of cold tolerance in maize seeds and seedlings through physiological quality assessments, as well as the genetic control associated with this trait, allows an early characterization of genotypes. Here we studied the genetic control for cold tolerance during the germination process in maize seeds and genes influenced by this stress.

Results

Six maize lines were used, three classified as tolerant and three as susceptible to low germination temperature. A field was developed to produce the hybrid seeds, in a partial diallel scheme including the reciprocal crosses. For the expression analysis, seeds from two contrasting lines were used, as well as their hybrid combination and their reciprocal crosses, on dried and moistened seeds at 10 °C for 4 and 7 days. It was evaluated the catalase (CAT) and esterase (EST) enzymes, heat-resistant proteins and the genes Putative stearoyl-ACP desaturase (SAD), Ascorbate Peroxidase (APX), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase (ZmMPK5). The estimated values ​​for heterosis, general and specific combining abilities and reciprocal maternal and non-maternal effects were carried out and it showed that there is heterosis for germination at low temperatures, also the non-additive genes were more important and there was a reciprocal effect.

Conclusions

There is a greater expression of the CAT and EST enzymes in moistened seeds at seven days and there is less expression of heat-resistant proteins and the SAD gene at seven days of moistening. Also, there are variations in the expression of the APX, SOD andZmMPK5genes in dried and moistened seeds, as well as among the genotypes studied.
Changes in carbohydrate metabolism and endogenous hormone regulation during bulblet initiation and development in Lycoris radiata
Authors: Xu Junxu , Li Qingzhu , Yang Liuyan , Li Xin , Wang Zhen , Zhang Yongchun
Published: April 2020

Background

Lycorisspecies have great ornamental and medicinal values; however, their low regeneration efficiency seriously restricts their commercial production. Understanding the mechanism of bulblet propagation in this genus, which has remained underexplored to date, could provide a theoretical basis for improving the reproductive efficiency. Therefore, we studied the bulblet initiation and developmental processes inLycoris radiata.

Results

We found that bulblets are formed on the junctions of the innermost layers of scales and the basal plate, and initially present as an axillary bud and gradually develop into a bulblet. We also determined the changes in carbohydrate and endogenous hormone contents during bulblet initiation and development, as well as the expression patterns of genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and hormone biosynthesis and signaling through transcriptome analysis. Soluble sugars derived from starch degradation in the outer scales are transported to and promote bulblet initiation and development through starch synthesis in the inner scales. This process is mediated by several genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, especially genes encoding ADP glucose pyrophosphorylase, a crucial starch synthesis enzyme. As for hormones, endogenous IAA, GA, and ABA content showed an increase and decrease during bulblet initiation and development, respectively, which were consistent with the expression patterns of genes involved in IAA, GA, and ABA synthesis and signal transduction. In addition, a decrease in ZR content may be down- and up-regulated by CK biosynthesis and degradation related genes, respectively, with increasing auxin content. Furthermore, expression levels of genes related to BR, JA, and SA biosynthesis were increased, while that of ethylene biosynthesis genes was decreased, which was also consistent with the expression patterns of their signal transduction genes.

Conclusions

The present study provides insights into the effect of carbohydrate metabolism and endogenous hormone regulation on control ofL. radiatabulblet initiation and development. Based on the results, we propose several suggestions to improveL. radiatapropagation efficiency in production, which will provide directions for future research.
Volume kinetic analysis of fluid retention after induction of general anesthesia
Authors: Hahn Robert G. , Nemme Janis
Published: April 2020

Background

Induction of general anesthesia increases the hemodilution resulting from infusion of crystalloid fluid, which is believed to be due to slower distribution caused by arterial hypotension. When normal distribution returns is not known.

Methods

An intravenous infusion of 25 mL kg− 1 of Ringer’s lactate was infused over 30 min to 25 volunteers just after induction of general anesthesia for open abdominal hysterectomy. A two-volume model was fitted to the repeated measurements of the blood hemoglobin concentration and the urinary excretion using mixed-effects modelling software. Individual-specific covariates were added in sequence.

Results

Distribution of infused fluid was interrupted during the first 20 min of the infusions. During this time 16.6 mL kg− 1 of lactated Ringer’s had been infused, of which virtually all remained in the circulating blood. Thereafter, the fluid kinetics was similar to that previously been found in awake volunteers except for the elimination rate constant (k10), which remained to be very low (0.86 × 10− 3 min− 1). Redistribution of infused fluid from the interstitium to the plasma occurred faster (higher k21) when the arterial pressure was low. No covariance was found between the fixed parameters and preoperatively concentrated urine, the use of sevoflurane or propofol to maintain the anesthesia, or the plasma concentrations of two degradation products of the endothelial glycocalyx, syndecan-1 and heparan sulfate.

Conclusions

Induction of general anesthesia interrupted the distribution of lactated Ringer’s solution up to when 16.6 mL kg− 1 of crystalloid fluid had been infused. Plasma volume expansion during this period of time was pronounced.

Trial registration

Controlled-trials.com (ISRCTN81005631) on May 17, 2016 (retrospectively registered).
The effects of different doses of dexmedetomidine on the requirements for propofol for loss of consciousness in patients monitored via the bispectral index: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Gu Yang , Yang Fan , Zhang Yonghai , Zheng Junwei , Wang Jie , Li Bin , Ma Tao , Cui Xiang , Lu Kaimei , Ma Hanxiang
Published: April 2020

Background

The α2-adrenergic agonist dexmedetomidine (DEX) is a sedative and can be used as an adjunct to hypnotics. The study sought to evaluate the effects of different doses of DEX on the requirements for propofol for loss of consciousness (LOC) in patients monitored via the bispectral index (BIS).

Methods

In this randomized, double-blind, three arm parallel group design and placebo-controlled trial, 73 patients aged between 18 and ~ 65 years with a BMI range of 18.0–24.5 kg·m− 2 and an American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade I or II who were scheduled for general anesthesia at the General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University were included in this study. Anesthesiologists and patients were blinded to the syringe contents. All patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive a 0.5 μg·kg− 1 DEX infusion (0.5 μg·kg− 1 DEX group; n = 24), a 1.0 μg·kg− 1 DEX infusion (1.0 μg·kg− 1 DEX group; n = 25) or a saline infusion (control group; n = 24) for 10 min. Propofol at a concentration of 20 mg·kg− 1·h− 1 was then infused at the end of the DEX or saline infusion. The propofol infusion was stopped when the patient being infused lost consciousness. The primary endpoint were propofol requirements for LOC and BIS value at LOC.

Results

The data from 73 patients were analyzed. The propofol requirements for LOC was reduced in the DEX groups compared with the control group (1.12 ± 0.33 mg·kg− 1 for the 0.5 μg·kg− 1 DEX group vs. 1.79 ± 0.39 mg·kg− 1 for the control group; difference, 0.68 mg·kg− 1 [95% CI, 0.49 to 0.87]; P = 0.0001) (0.77 ± 0.27 mg·kg− 1 for the 1.0 μg·kg− 1 DEX group vs. 1.79 ± 0.39 mg·kg− 1 for the control group; difference, 1.02 mg·kg− 1 [95% CI, 0.84 to 1.21]; P = 0.0001). The propofol requirements for LOC was lower in the 1.0 μg·kg− 1 DEX group than the 0.5 μg·kg− 1 DEX group (0.77 ± 0.27 mg·kg− 1 vs. 1.12 ± 0.33 mg·kg− 1, respectively; difference, 0.34 mg·kg− 1 [95% CI, 0.16 to 0.54]; P = 0.003). At the time of LOC, the BIS value was higher in the DEX groups than in the control group (67.5 ± 3.5 for group 0.5 μg·kg− 1 DEX vs. 60.5 ± 3.8 for the control group; difference, 7.04 [95% CI, 4.85 to 9.23]; P = 0.0001) (68.4 ± 4.1 for group 1.0 μg·kg− 1 DEX vs. 60.5 ± 3.8 for the control group; difference, 7.58 [95% CI, 5.41 to 9.75]; P = 0.0001).

Conclusion

The study showed that DEX (both 0.5 and 1.0 μg·kg− 1 DEX) reduced the propofol requirements for LOC. DEX pre-administration increased the BIS value for LOC induced by propofol.

Clinical trial registration

The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (trial ID: NCT02783846 on May 26, 2016).
Predictive factors for successful INTELLiVENT-ASV® use: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Katayama Shinshu , Tonai Ken , Shima Jun , Koyama Kansuke , Nunomiya Shin
Published: April 2020

Background

INTELLiVENT-ASV® (I-ASV) is a closed-loop ventilation mode that automatically controls the ventilation settings. Although a number of studies have reported the usefulness of I-ASV, the clinical situations in which it may be useful have not yet been clarified. We aimed to report our initial 3 years of experience using I-ASV, particularly the clinical conditions and the technical and organizational factors associated with its use. Furthermore, we evaluated the usefulness of I-ASV and determined the predictive factors for successful management with I-ASV.

Methods

This single-center, retrospective observational study included patients who were ventilated using the Hamilton G5® ventilator (Hamilton Medical AG, Rhäzüns, Switzerland) from January 2016 to December 2018. The patients were categorized into the “I-ASV success” group and “I-ASV failure” group (those receiving mechanical ventilation with I-ASV along with any other mode). Multivariate analysis was performed to identify factors associated with successful I-ASV management.

Results

Of the 189 patients, 135 (71.4%) were categorized into the I-ASV success group. In the I-ASV success group, the reasons for ICU admission included post-elective surgery (94.1%), post-emergent surgery (81.5%), and other medical reasons (55.6%). I-ASV failure was associated with a low P/F ratio (278 vs. 167, P = 0.0003) and high Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score (21 vs. 26, P < 0.0001). The main reasons for not using I-ASV included strong inspiratory effort and asynchrony. The APACHE II score was an independent predictive factor for successful management with I-ASV, with an odds ratio of 0.92 (95% confidential interval 0.87–0.96, P = 0.0006). The area under the receiver operating curve for the APACHE II score was 0.722 (cut-off: 24).

Conclusions

In this study, we found that 71.4% of the fully mechanically ventilated patients could be managed successfully with I-ASV. The APACHE II score was an independent factor that could help predict the successful management of I-ASV. To improve I-ASV management, it is necessary to focus on patient-ventilator interactions.
Pooled cohort equations heart failure risk score predicts cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality in a nationally representative sample of US adults
Authors: Razavi Alexander C. , Potts Kaitlin S. , Kelly Tanika N. , He Jiang , Fernandez Camilo , Krousel-Wood Marie , Anderson Amanda H. , Bundy Joshua , Whelton Seamus P. , Blumenthal Roger S. , Lloyd-Jones Donald , Bazzano Lydia A.
Published: April 2020

Background

Heart failure (HF) represents an accumulated burden of systemic vascular damage and is the fastest growing form of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Due to increasing HF-attributable mortality rates, we sought to assess the association of the new 2019 Pooled Cohort equations to Prevent Heart Failure (PCP-HF) risk score with CVD and all-cause mortality.

Methods

We linked data for 6333 black and white men and women aged 40–79 years, whom underwent electrocardiographic examination from the Third National Health and Nutrition Exam Survey, to National Death Index record matches. Sex- and race-specific PCP-HF risk scores were calculated using data on age, smoking, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, fasting blood glucose, QRS complex duration, and antihypertensive and/or glucose-lowering medications. Cox regression estimated hazard ratios for the association of the PCP-HF risk score with CVD and all-cause mortality.

Results

Individuals were on average 54.9 years old (51.7% women, 25.4% black) and the median 10-year HF risk was 1.6% (Q1 = 0.5, Q3 = 4.8). There were 3178 deaths, 1116 from CVD, over a median follow-up time of 22.3 years. Black women had a higher 10-year HF risk compared to white women (2.1% vs. 1.1%; p < 0.01), while no significant difference was observed in predicted HF risk between black men and white men (2.3% vs. 2.1%, p = 0.16). A two-fold higher PCP-HF risk score was associated with a significant 58% (HR = 1.58; 95% CI, 1.48–1.70; p < 0.0001) and 38% (HR = 1.38; 95% CI, 1.32–1.46; p < 0.0001) greater risk of CVD and all-cause mortality, respectively.

Conclusion

The PCP-HF risk score predicts CVD and all-cause mortality, in addition to the 10-year risk of incident HF among white and black men and women. These results underline the expanded utility of the PCP-HF risk score and suggest that its implementation in the clinical and population health settings may improve primary CVD prevention in the United States.
Existence of hepatitis B virus surface protein mutations and other variants: demand for hepatitis B infection control in Cambodia
Authors: Ko Ko , Takahashi Kazuaki , Nagashima Shintaro , Yamamoto Chikako , Ork Vichit , Sugiyama Aya , Akita Tomoyuki , Ohisa Masayuki , Chuon Channarena , Hossain Md. Shafiqul , Mao Bunsoth , Tanaka Junko
Published: April 2020

Background

This study aimed to detect Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genome sequences and their variants as of nationwide scale using dried blood spot (DBS) samples and to provide up-to-date reference data for infection control and surveillance in Cambodia.

Method

Among 2518 children age 5–7 years and their 2023 mothers participated in 2017 Cambodia nationwide sero-survey on hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) prevalence using multistage random sampling strategy, 95 mothers and 13 children positive to HBsAg were included in this study. HBV DNA was extracted from DBS, then performed polymerase chain reaction. HBV genotypes and potential variants were examined by partial and full length genomic analysis.

Results

HBsAg positive rate was 4.7% (95/2023) in mothers and 0.52% (13/2518) in their children. Genotype C (80.49%) was abundantly found throughout the whole Cambodia whilst genotype B (19.51%) was exclusively found in regions bordering Vietnam. S gene mutants of HBV were found in 24.29% of mothers and 16.67% of children with HBV DNA positive sera. Full-length genome analysis revealed the homology of 99.62–100% in each mother-child pair. Genotype B was clarified to recombinant genotype B4/C2 and B2/C2. Double (48.39%) and combination mutation (32.26%) were observed in core promoter region of HBV C1 strains.

Conclusions

This study showed the capable of DBS for large-scale molecular epidemiological study of HBV in resource limited countries. Full-genome sequences yield the better understanding of sub-genotypes, their variants and the degree of homology between strains isolated from mother-child pairs calls for effective strategies on prevention, control and surveillance of mother-to-child HBV transmission in Cambodia.
Application of loop-mediated isothermal amplification combined with colorimetric and lateral flow dipstick visualization as the potential point-of-care testing for Corynebacterium diphtheriae
Authors: Zasada Aleksandra A. , Wiatrzyk Aldona , Czajka Urszula , Brodzik Klaudia , Formińska Kamila , Mosiej Ewa , Prygiel Marta , Krysztopa-Grzybowska Katarzyna , Wdowiak Karol
Published: April 2020

Background

Diphtheria outbreaks occurred in endemic areas and imported and indigenous cases are reported in UE/EEA. Because of the high infectiveness and severity of the disease, early and accurate diagnosis of each suspected case is essential for the treatment and management of the case and close contacts.

The aim of the study was to establish simple and rapid testing methods based on Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) assay for the detection ofCorynebacterium diphtheriaeand differentiation between toxigenic and non-toxigenic strains.

Methods

Corynebacterium diphtheriaeandCorynebacterium ulceransisolates from the National Institute of Public Health-National Institute of Hygiene collection were used for the development of LAMP assay for the diagnosis of diphtheria and nontoxigenicC. diphtheriaeinfections. Various colorimetric methods for visualization of results were investigated. Sensitivity and specificity of the assay were examined using a collection of DNA samples from various gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Results

The LAMP assay fortoxanddtxRgenes was developed. The sensitivity and specificity of the assay were calculated as 100%. The detection limit was estimated as 1.42 pg/μl concentration of DNA template when the reaction was conducted for 60 min. However, the detection limit was lowered 10 times for every 10 min of reduction in the time of incubation during the reaction. Positive results were successfully detected colorimetrically using hydroxynaphthol blue, calcein, QuantiFluor, and lateral flow Milenia HybriDetect dipsticks.

Conclusion

The assay developed in the study might be applied for point-of-care testing of diphtheria and otherC. diphtheriaeinfections as well as for other infections caused by diphtheria-toxin producingCorynebacteriumspecies. It is highly sensitive, specific, inexpensive, easy to use, and suitable for low-resource settings.
Disseminated cysticercosis and Kaposi sarcoma in a child with HIV/AIDS: A case report
Authors: McCormick David W. , Bacha Jason M. , El-Mallawany Nader K. , Kovarik Carrie L. , Slone J. S. , Campbell Liane R.
Published: April 2020

Background

Clinical manifestations of extraneural infection with the pork tapeworm Taenia solium typically affect the muscles, eyes, alimentary canal, and/or subcutaneous tissues. Children living with HIV are at increased risk for more widespread and severe manifestations of food-borne opportunistic infections, including T. solium, due to fluctuating levels of immunosuppression. We present a case of disseminated T. solium in a HIV-positive child with Kaposi sarcoma living in Tanzania with cysticercosis presenting as widespread subcutaneous nodules.

Case presentation

A 4-year-old HIV-positive boy in Southern Tanzania presented for evaluation of > 30 violaceous skin lesions, few subcutaneous nodules, and a circumferential violaceous penile lesion which rapidly grew after initiation of ART. The patient was clinically diagnosed with Kaposi sarcoma and started on chemotherapy with bleomycin, vincristine, and doxorubicin. He completed 10 cycles of chemotherapy, with full resolution of the violaceous skin and penile lesions but persistence of his subcutaneous nodules, thus paclitaxel was added. After 12 additional cycles of paclitaxel, his subcutaneous nodules enlarged, and biopsy of a scapular subcutaneous nodule was performed. Histopathology revealed a cystic structure with a central larval scolex and serrated spiral canal consistent with T. solium, which confirmed a diagnosis of disseminated cysticercosis. He completed a 10-day course of praziquantel and albendazole with resolution of the subcutaneous nodules.

Conclusions

Disseminated cysticercosis is an unusual opportunistic infection which can present as subcutaneous nodules without other typical cysticercosis symptoms. Immunosuppression – from HIV and/or chemotherapy – may unmask cysticercosis in children in endemic regions and result in more severe manifestations of this disease. Cysticercosis should remain on a clinician’s differential for subcutaneous nodules, especially in children living with HIV. Cysticercosis can mimic Kaposi sarcoma, and histopathology is essential to accurately diagnose and manage patients with concerning skin lesions.
High-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration and acute kidney injury after noncardiac surgery
Authors: Zhou Yan , Yang Hong-Yun , Zhang Hui-Li , Zhu Xiao-Jin
Published: April 2020

Background

Abnormal High-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Concentration is closely related to postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) after cardiac surgeries. The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship between High-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Concentration and acute kidney injury after non-cardiac surgeries.

Method

This was a single-center cohort study for elective non-cardiac non-kidney surgery from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2017. The endpoint was the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) 7 days postoperatively in the hospital. Preoperative serum High-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Concentration was examined by multivariate logistic regression models before and after propensity score weighting analysis.

Results

Of the 74,284 surgeries, 4.4% (3159 cases) suffered acute kidney injury. The odds ratio for HDL (0.96–1.14 as reference, < 0.96, 1.14–1.35, > 1.35) was 1.28 (1.14–1.41), P < 0.001; 0.91 (0.80–1.03), P = 0.150; 0.75 (0.64–0.85), P < 0.001, respectively. Using a dichotomized cutoff point for propensity analysis, Preoperative serum HDL <  1.03 mmol/L (> 1.03 as reference) was associated with increased risk of postoperative AKI, with odds ratio 1.40 (1.27 ~ 1.52), P < 0.001 before propensity score weighting, and 1.32 (1.21–1.46), P < 0.001 after propensity score weighting. Sensitivity analysis with other cut values of HDL showed similar results.

Conclusions

Using multivariate regression analyses before and after propensity score weighting, in addition to multiple sensitivity analysis methods, this study found that following non-cardiac surgery, low HDL cholesterol levels were independent risk factors for AKI.