bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pregnancy and delivery in women with von Willebrand disease
Authors: Castaman Giancarlo , James Paula D.
Published: May 2019

Given the wide heterogeneity of phenotypes and of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms associated with the disorder, pregnancy and delivery in von Willebrand disease (VWD) represent a significant clinical challenge. The variable pattern of changes observed during pregnancy of von Willebrand factor (VWF) and factor VIII (FVIII), the protein carried by VWF, prompts a careful evaluation of pregnant women with VWD to plan the most appropriate treatment at the time of parturition. However, there are also instances during pregnancy (amniocentesis, vaginal bleeding associated with placental detachment, sudden abortion) that may require urgent hemostatic treatment to prevent bleeding. Thus, women with VWD should start pregnancy after being well characterised as to their type, subtype and treatments. Women with VWD who have VWF and FVIII basal levels >30 U/dL typically normalise these levels at the end of pregnancy and specific anti‐haemorrhagic prophylaxis is seldom required. On the contrary, those with basal levels <20 U/dL usually show a lesser increase and specific treatment is required. Some women with DNA variants associated with increased clearance can be treated with desmopressin, while those unresponsive or with contra‐indications to this agent need replacement therapy. For these latter women, the risk of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy may be increased and prophylaxis with VWF concentrates required. Similarly, women with type 2 VWD who maintain reduced VWF activity throughout pregnancy require replacement therapy with FVIII/VWF concentrates. Delayed postpartum bleeding may occur when replacement therapy is not continued for some days. Tranexamic acid is useful at discharge to avoid excessive lochia.
Use of a whole‐cell ELISA to detect additional antibodies in setting of suspected heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia
Authors: Bashover Eva M. , Stefaniuk Catherine M. , Harding Clifford V. , Maitta Robert W.
Published: May 2019

Objectives

Type II heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is mediated by formation of antibodies to platelet factor 4 (PF4)‐heparin complexes. We evaluated anti–PF4‐heparin‐negative samples for the presence of additional anti‐platelet and anti‐red blood cell (RBC) antibodies using whole‐cell platelet/ RBC ELISAs we developed.

Methods

Seventy‐three samples tested for anti–PF4‐heparin by ELISA were included: 62 tested negative, 9 tested positive, and 2 had equivocal results. Plasma specimens from healthy donors were used as controls.

Results

100% (9/9) anti–PF4‐positive samples had anti‐platelet antibodies detected by whole‐cell platelet ELISA. 42.2% (27/64) anti–PF4‐heparin‐negative samples were negative for anti‐platelet and anti‐RBC antibodies. 32.8% (21/64) negative samples showed reactivity to both platelets and RBC; 12.5% (8/64) negative samples were each reactive with either platelet or RBC ELISA, respectively. Additionally, two samples that tested equivocal by anti–PF4‐heparin ELISA had antibodies to both platelets and RBC by whole‐cell ELISA.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that patients with thrombocytopenia testing negative for anti–PF4‐heparin may still harbor antibodies to platelets. However, additional research is needed to determine the significance of these antibodies. Nevertheless, these findings may encourage clinicians to further investigate patients with possible immune‐mediated etiologies of thrombocytopenia and anemia.
The use of magnetic resonance imaging for the assessment of distal limb wounds in horses: A pilot study
Authors: Sherlock C. , Fairburn A. , Lawson A. , Mair T.
Published: May 2019

The utility of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the evaluation of equine solar foot penetrations is well established. The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the utility of MR imaging in assessment of equine distal limb wounds excluding solar penetrations. Low‐field MR images of 23 horses that had previously sustained distal limb wounds were reviewed in consensus by two ECVDI diplomats. Structures (bone; synovial structure; subcutaneous tissue and skin; and ligament/tendon) were identified as normal or abnormal on MR images, radiographs and ultrasound images and reports. All abnormalities were described. The presence of artefacts and their effect on image interpretation were also noted for each modality. Comparisons were made between imaging modalities, and it was noted if MR imaging influenced case management. Abnormalities of the bone were identified in 26% of horses on MR images and 17% of horses on radiographs; there were no osseous abnormalities identified on radiographs that were not identified on MR images, and additional features and better characterisation of lesions were noted on MR images. Tendon/ligament abnormalities were identified in 57% horses on MR and 47% of horses on ultrasound images. Magnetic susceptibility artefacts compromised MR image interpretation in 17% of horses. MR imaging of equine distal limb wounds allowed identification of both osseous and tendon/ligament abnormalities in more cases than either radiography or ultrasonography, and altered case management in 20/23 horses. Although MR imaging should not replace conventional imaging, this study highlights that MR imaging of equine distal limb wounds can yield information not detected on conventional imaging which may direct treatment and affect prognostication.
A Method to Suppress Isobaric and Polyatomic Interferences for Measurements of Highly Siderophile Elements in Desilicified Geological Samples
Authors: Zhou Xiaoyu , Tanaka Ryoji , Yamanaka Masahiro , Sakaguchi Chie , Nakamura Eizo
Published: May 2019

Sample decomposition using inverse aqua regia at elevated temperatures and pressures (e.g., Carius tube or high‐pressure asher) is the most common method used to extract highly siderophile elements (HSEs: Ru, Rh, Pd, Re, Os, Ir, Pt and Au) from geological samples. Recently, it has been recognised that additional HF desilicification is necessary to better recover HSEs, potentially contained within silicate or oxide minerals in mafic samples, which cannot be dissolved solely by inverse aqua regia. However, the abundance of interfering elements tends to increase in the eluent when conventional ion‐exchange purification procedures are applied to desilicified samples. In this study, we developed an improved purification method to determine HSEs in desilicified samples. This method enables the reduction of the ratios of isobaric and polyatomic interferences, relative to the measured intensities of HSE isotope masses, to less than a few hundred parts per million. Furthermore, the total procedural blanks are either comparable to or lower than conventional methods. Thus, this method allows accurate and precise HSE measurements in mafic and ultramafic geological samples, without the need for interference corrections. Moreover, the problem of increased interfering elements, such as Zr for Pd and Cr for Ru, is circumvented for the desilicified samples.
Estimation of Nuwiq®(simoctocog alfa) activity using one‐stage and chromogenic assays—Results from an international comparative field study
Authors: Tiefenbacher Stefan , Albisetti Manuela , Baker Peter , Kappert Guenther , Kitchen Steve , Kremer Hovinga Johanna A. , Pouplard Claire , Scholz Ute , Ternisien Catherine , Borgvall Carin , Vicente Tiago , Belyanskaya Larisa , Walter Olaf , Oldenburg Johannes ,   the Nuwiq Field Study Participating Laboratories
Published: May 2019

Background

Accurate determination of coagulation factor VIII activity (FVIII:C) is essential for effective and safe FVIII replacement therapy. FVIII:C can be measured by one‐stage and chromogenic substrate assays (OSAs and CSAs, respectively); however, there is significant interlaboratory and interassay variability.

Aims

This international comparative field study characterized the behaviour of OSAs and CSAs used in routine laboratory practice to measure the activity of Nuwiq®(human‐cl rhFVIII, simoctocog alfa), a fourth‐generation recombinant human FVIII produced in a human cell line.

Methods

FVIII‐deficient plasma was spiked with Nuwiq®or Advate®at 1, 5, 30 and 100 international units (IU)/dL. Participating laboratories analysed the samples using their routine procedures and equipment. Accuracy, inter‐ and intralaboratory variation, CSA:OSA ratio and the impact of different OSA and CSA reagents were assessed.

Results

Forty‐nine laboratories from 9 countries provided results. Mean absolute FVIII:C was comparable for both products at all concentrations with both OSA and CSA, with interproduct ratios (Nuwiq®:Advate®) of 1.02‐1.13. Mean recoveries ranged from 97% to 191% for Nuwiq®, and from 93% to 172% for Advate®, with higher recoveries at lower concentrations. Subgroup analyses by OSA and CSA reagents showed minor variations depending on reagents, but no marked differences between the two products. CSA:OSA ratios based on overall means ranged from 0.99 to 1.17 for Nuwiq®and from 1.01 to 1.17 for Advate®.

Conclusions

Both OSAs and CSAs are suitable for the measurement of FVIII:C of Nuwiq®in routine laboratory practice, without the need for a product‐specific reference standard.
Problems in the reproducibility of classification of small lung adenocarcinoma: an international interobserver study
Authors: Shih Angela R , Uruga Hironori , Bozkurtlar Emine , Chung Jin‐Haeng , Hariri Lida P , Minami Yuko , Wang He , Yoshizawa Akihiko , Muzikansky Alona , Moreira Andre L , Mino‐Kenudson Mari
Published: May 2019

Aims

The 2015 WHO classification for lung adenocarcinoma (ACA) provides criteria for adenocarcinoma in situ (AIS), minimally invasive adenocarcinoma (MIA) and invasive adenocarcinoma (INV), but differentiating these entities can be difficult. As our understanding of prognostic significance increases, inconsistent classification is problematic. This study assesses agreement within an international panel of lung pathologists and identifies factors contributing to inconsistent classification.

Methods and results

Sixty slides of small lung ACAs were reviewed digitally by six lung pathologists in three rounds, with consensus conferences and examination of elastic stains in round 3. The panel independently reviewed each case to assess final diagnosis, invasive component size and predominant pattern. The kappa value for AIS and MIA versus INV decreased from 0.44 (round 1) to 0.30 and 0.34 (rounds 2 and 3). Interobserver agreement for invasion (AIS versus other) decreased from 0.34 (round 1) to 0.29 and 0.29 (rounds 2 and 3). The range of the measured invasive component in a single case was up to 19.2 mm among observers. Agreement was excellent in tumours with high‐grade cytology and fair with low‐grade cytology.

Conclusions

Interobserver agreement in small lung ACAs was fair to moderate, and improved minimally with elastic stains. Poor agreement is primarily attributable to subjectivity in pattern recognition, but high‐grade cytology increases agreement. More reliable methods to differentiate histological patterns may be necessary, including refinement of the definitions as well as recognition of other features (such as high‐grade cytology) as a formal part of routine assessment.
Environmental analysis of packaging‐derived changes in food production and consumer behavior
Authors: Yokokawa Naoki , Kikuchi‐Uehara Emi , Amasawa Eri , Sugiyama Hirokazu , Hirao Masahiko
Published: May 2019

This study analyzed the environmental impacts of packaging‐derived changes in food production and consumer behavior to assist packaging designers in making environmentally conscious decisions. Packaging can be functionalized to prevent food loss and waste (FLW), for example, extending the expiration date and apportioning the package size, but it can generate additional environmental impacts from changes in food and packaging production. Previous studies assessed additional impacts from packaging production; however, the effects of packaging functionalization are yet to be connected with food production and consumer behavior. To examine the effect of functionalization on these aspects, we analyzed packaging‐derived changes in food production for milk and cabbage products. The case study compared products with functionalized packaging that permits a longer expiration date or a smaller portion size to their base‐case products. Our results showed that the packaging‐derived changes increased the global warming potential (GWP) of food production more than other processes did. Thus, changes in food production weakened the effectiveness of the packaging functionalization to decrease the GWP. Moreover, the analysis of consumer behavior scenarios showed that consumers’ perception of the expiration date decisively influences the effectiveness of packaging functionalization. When consumers discarded food after the expiration date, provided they consumed in small quantities, the packaging functionalization reduced FLW. From the scenario analysis, we identified appropriate combinations of packaging functionalization and consumer behaviors to effectively decrease total GWP. With our expanded analysis, packaging designers can understand the effectiveness of their decisions on the product life cycle in reducing FLW and environmental impacts.
Physical‐activity support for people with intellectual disabilities: development of a tool to measure behavioural determinants in direct support professionals
Authors: Bossink L. W. M. , van der Putten A. A. J. , Steenbergen H. A. , Vlaskamp C.
Published: May 2019

Background

Physical‐activity approaches for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) are more likely to be effective and sustainable if they also target direct support professionals' behaviour. However, no tools to measure the behavioural determinants for direct support professionals are available as of yet. This study aims to construct a self‐report tool to measure direct support professionals' behavioural determinants in physical‐activity support for people with ID and to analyse its psychometric properties.

Methods

The tools' sub‐scales and items corresponded with a proposed conceptual model. A pilot study was carried out to investigate and improve content validity. Construct validity and measurement precision were examined using item response theory models with data from a convenience sample of 247 direct support professionals in the support of people with ID.

Results

Results supported the three theory‐driven behaviour scales and indicated reasonable to good construct validity. The marginal reliability for the scales ranged from 0.84 to 0.87, and adequate measurement precision along the latent continua was found.

Conclusions

The tool appears to be promising for measuring the behavioural determinants of direct support professionals for the physical‐activity support of people with ID and has potential as a tool for identifying areas to focus on for interventions and policies in the future.
Maternal brain resting‐state connectivity in the postpartum period
Authors: Dufford Alexander J. , Erhart Andrew , Kim Pilyoung
Published: May 2019

In the postpartum period, the maternal brain experiences both structural and functional plasticity. Although we have a growing understanding of the responses of the human maternal brain to infant stimuli, little is known about the intrinsic connectivity among those regions during the postpartum months. Resting‐state functional connectivity (rsFC) provides a measure of the functional architecture of the brain based upon intrinsic functional connectivity (ie, the temporal correlation in blood oxygenation level dependent signal when the brain is not engaged in a specific task). In the present study, we used resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine how later postpartum months are associated with rsFC and maternal behaviours. We recruited a sample of 47 socioeconomically diverse first‐time mothers with singleton pregnancies. Because the amygdala has been shown to play a critical role in maternal behaviours in the postpartum period, this was chosen as the seed for a seed‐based correlation analysis. For the left amygdala, later postpartum months were associated with greater connectivity with the anterior cingulate gyrus, left nucleus accumbens, right caudate and left cerebellum (P < 0.05, false discovery rate corrected). Furthermore, in an exploratory analysis, we observed indications that rsFC between the left amygdala and left nucleus accumbens was positively associated with maternal structuring during a mother child‐interaction. In addition, later postpartum months were associated with greater connectivity between the right amygdala and the bilateral caudate and right putamen. Overall, we provide evidence of relationships between postpartum months and rsFC in the regions involved in salience detection and regions involved in maternal motivation. Greater connectivity between the amygdala and nucleus accumbens may play a role in positive maternal behaviours.
Challenges to Studying Illicit Drug Users
Authors: Ryan Jennie E. , Smeltzer Suzanne C. , Sharts‐Hopko Nancy C.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Throughout the world, illicit drug use continues to pose a significant risk to public health. The opioid crisis in North America, the diversion of the prescription drug tramadol throughout Africa, and the increasing supply of methamphetamines in East and South Asia all contribute to increasing risks to individual and societal health. Furthermore, the violation of human rights in efforts to enforce prohibitionist values poses significant threats to many individuals worldwide. With these evolving situations, it is imperative that researchers direct their attention to the various populations of illicit drug users. However, the inclusion of illicit drug users, often considered a vulnerable population, as participants in research studies presents several increased risks that must be addressed in study protocols. Researchers are required to provide “additional safeguards” to all study protocols involving illicit drug users, but there is often substantial variability and inconsistency in how these safeguards are applied. Additional safeguards can be timely, costly, and unduly burdensome for researchers, ethical review boards, and research participants.

Approach

Through synthesis of the current literature, this article addresses the barriers to studying illicit drug users and the methods researchers can utilize to minimize risk. A case study is provided to illustrate the high level of scrutiny of study protocols involving the participation of illicit drug users and the effect of such scrutiny on recruitment of participants. The article concludes with a discussion of the effects of the current political climate on the recruitment of illicit drug users in research.

Conclusions

Individuals who participate in criminal or illegal behaviors such as illicit drug use, prostitution, illegal entry into a country, and human trafficking are susceptible to multiple physical, mental, and social health risks, as well as criminal prosecution. The importance of research on the health of marginalized populations cannot be overstated. This work must continue, and at the same time, we must continue to protect these individuals to the best of our ability through diligent attention to sound research methods.

Clinical Relevance

The use of illicit drugs continues to pose a substantial threat to global health. Individuals who use illicit drugs are susceptible to multiple physical, mental, and social health risks, as well as criminal prosecution. It is imperative that researchers study these vulnerable populations in order to develop interventions to minimize individual and societal harm. There are several barriers to the study of illicit drug users that must be addressed through rigorous methodology and the addition of safeguards.
Contact sensitization to cosmetic series of allergens in patients with rosacea: A prospective controlled study
Authors: Ozbagcivan Ozlem , Akarsu Sevgi , Dolas Necla , Fetil Emel
Published: May 2019

Background

Previous studies have documented the cosmetic allergic contact dermatitis due to common cosmetic allergens in standard series and various cosmetic products used in rosacea patients; however, the prevalence of contact sensitization to other cosmetic allergens other than those in standard series is largely unknown.

Aims

To assess the prevalence of contact sensitization to a European cosmetic series of allergens (Chemotechnique Diagnostics AB, Malmö, Sweden) in rosacea patients and to compare this with the prevalence observed in general population.

Methods

In this prospective monocenter study, 103 patients with rosacea and 104 control subjects were investigated for contact sensitizations via patch testing the cosmetic series including 49 allergens.

Results

At least one positive allergic reaction was observed in 62 (60.2%) rosacea patients, and in 25 (24.0%) control subjects. Compared with control subjects, rosacea patients were statistically more likely to have positive patch tests. The most common allergens giving positive results were octyl gallate (10.68%), dodecyl gallate (8.74%), tert‐Butylhydroquinone (7.77%), thimerosal (6.80%), euxyl K400 (6.80%), cocamidopropyl betaine (5.83%), and 2,6‐Di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐cresol (4.85%).

Conclusions

This study shows that rosacea patients show a strikingly high prevalence of contact sensitization to cosmetic allergens. We recommend the additional use of cosmetic series for patch testing, and the careful use of cosmetics in rosacea patients if cosmetic contact sensitivity is suspected.
Search for conditions to avoid parametrectomy during radical hysterectomy for cervical cancer
Authors: Ito Fuminori , Sugiura Atsushi , Toyoda Shinji , Itani Yoshio , Iwai Kana , Yamada Yuki , Tanase Yasuhito , Kawaguchi Ryuji , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Kita Tsunekazu
Published: May 2019

Aim

This study aimed to assess adequate conditions for omitting parametrectomy for stage IB1–IIA2 cervical cancer with the aim of reducing postoperative complications during Type III radical hysterectomy (RH).

Methods

We investigated factors associated with parametrial invasion (PMI) in patients who underwent Type III RH for stage IB1, IB2, IIA1, IIA2 and IIB cervical cancer at two tertiary institutions from November 2006 to February 2018. Both clinicopathological and preoperatively estimated factors were assessed.

Results

One hundred fifty‐six patients were preoperatively diagnosed with stage IB1 to IIB disease. Thirty‐four patients (21.8%) showed PMI on histological analyses. In the multivariate analysis, an age older than 50 years, tumor size larger than 40 mm, common iliac lymph node metastasis and lymphovascular space invasion were identified as significant risk factors for PMI (P‐values = 0.008, 0.003, 0.004 and 0.004, respectively). The preoperatively estimated risk factors for PMI were an older age, larger tumor size, and common iliac lymph node metastasis (P‐values = 0.007, 0.002 and 0.001, respectively). A combination of these three factors was sufficient to estimate PMI with a high specificity (100%) and positive predictive value (100%) in patients with stage IB1 to IIA2 disease.

Conclusion

During RH, resecting the posterior layer of the vesicouterine ligament and the paracolpium without removing the cardinal ligament (avoiding parametrectomy) might be feasible for stage IB1–IIA2 cervical cancer in patients younger than 50 years presenting with smaller tumors (<40 mm) and no common iliac lymph node metastasis.
The effect of dietary high energy density and carbohydrate energy ratio on digestive enzymes activity, nutrient digestibility, amino acid utilization and intestinal morphology of weaned piglets
Authors: Adebowale Tolulope , Shunshun Jin , Yao Kang
Published: May 2019

This study evaluated the effect of high or low digestible energy ratio of carbohydrate in a high or normal dietary energy density on performance, amino acid utilization and intestinal functions of weaned piglets. A total of 32 healthy weaners (9.60 ± 0.13 kg) were allocated to two dietary energy densities (3,400 and 3,800 kcal/kg) and two digestible energy ratio of carbohydrate to fat (9:1 and 3:1) in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. There were eight piglets per treatment. The feed intake of piglets was significantly increased by dietary high carbohydrate ratio (9:1) (p < 0.01); however, this did not result in improved body weight gain (p > 0.05). The piglets fed high carbohydrate energy ratio had a reduced villus height/crypt depth (VH/CD) ratio in the duodenum (p < 0.05), and dietary high energy density further decreased the VH/CD ratio in the ileum (p < 0.01). In the duodenum, the lymphocyte count was increased by dietary high energy density (p < 0.05), while dietary energy density and carbohydrate energy ratio interacted to increase lymphocyte count in the ileum (p < 0.05). The serum cholesterol, triglyceride and low‐density lipoprotein were not significantly affected (p > 0.05), but dietary energy density interacted with dietary energy ratio to increase high‐density lipoprotein concentration (p < 0.05) in piglets fed reduced carbohydrate energy ratio. Dietary high energy density reduced energy digestibility (p < 0.05), whereas high carbohydrate energy ratio increased crude protein digestibility in the piglets (p < 0.05). The intestinal sucrase, lactase activities and serum concentrations of histidine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, alanine, glycine, tyrosine and citrulline were higher in the piglets fed dietary increased carbohydrate energy ratio. Oxidative stress markers and volatile fatty acids concentrations were altered by the dietary treatments. It was concluded that dietary high energy density could be detrimental to piglets intestinal functions and that increased carbohydrate energy ratio could affect amino acid utilization and body weight gain in weaner pigs.
Heinrichsia cheilanthoides gen. et sp. nov., a fossil fern in the family Pteridaceae (Polypodiales) from the Cretaceous amber forests of Myanmar
Authors: Regalado Ledis , Schmidt Alexander R. , Müller Patrick , Niedermeier Lisa , Krings Michael , Schneider Harald
Published: May 2019

Divergence time estimates suggest that most clades constituting the fern family Pteridaceae (Polypodiales) were in existence by the Early Cretaceous. However, fossil evidence to corroborate this remains exceedingly rare. Burmese amber is an important source of new information on the radiation of derived fern lineages during the Cretaceous Terrestrial Revolution. This study describes Heinrichsia cheilanthoides gen. et sp. nov., a fern with suggested affinities to Pteridaceae, based on fertile foliage portions preserved in Early Cretaceous (~100 Ma) amber from Myanmar. Heinrichsia cheilanthoides is characterized by a pinnate‐pinnatifid frond that bears apical, marginal sori protected by a pseudoindusium. Sporangia are of the polypod type and contain tetrahedral‐globose, trilete spores with a striate perine. This discovery provides a new calibration point to test and refine molecular clock‐based concepts of the evolutionary history of the Pteridaceae. Heinrichsia cheilanthoides further substantiates the suggestion that the Cretaceous forests of Myanmar were home to a rich fern flora.
A review of the rheological properties of dilute and concentrated food emulsions
Authors: Zhu Yuqing , Gao Hongxia , Liu Wei , Zou Liqiang , McClements David Julian
Published: May 2019

Rheology is a powerful and versatile analytical tool for providing information about changes in the composition, structure, and interactions of food emulsions. Moreover, an understanding of emulsion rheology is essential for designing efficient food processing operations and emulsion‐based foods with the desired physicochemical, sensory, and nutritional attributes, such as appearance, texture, flavor, shelf life, and bioavailability. This article provides a brief overview of the current understanding of food emulsions, with a focus on how their viscosity is related to the properties of the emulsion droplets present.
Production of acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease toxin is affected by addition of cell‐free supernatant prepared from AI‐2‐producing Vibrio harveyi mutant
Authors: Pumkaew Monchai , Taengchaiyaphum Suparat , Powtongsook Sorawit , Pungrasmi Wiboonluk , Sritunyalucksana Kallaya
Published: May 2019

Acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) causes massive mortality in shrimp ponds within the first month poststocking. The causative agent is a specific strain of Vibrio parahaemolyticus (VPAHPND) that has acquired the capability to produce virulent binary toxins called ToxA and ToxB. This study aims to test the effect of the addition of an autoinducer‐2‐containing cell‐free supernatant (CFS) from the mutant Vibrio harveyi (VH) on growth and toxin production of VPAHPND. The relative AI‐2‐like activity in CFS was detected by luminescence assay. The effect of CFS (5 and 9%) on growth and toxin production of VPAHPND was evaluated. Compared to the control culture (without CFS‐VH addition), the addition of either 5 or 9% CFS‐VH affected the growth at the initial stage of VPAHPND. Similar growth profiles of VPAHPND were found with the addition of CFS‐VH at both concentrations. Western blot analysis suggests that the addition of CFS‐VH affected the production of both toxins. ToxA could be detected at the early hour post‐CFS‐VH inoculation, whereas the high amount of ToxB was detected when 5% CFS‐VH was added. However, interfering with the AI‐2 function with furanone, the AI‐2 antagonist resulted in a slight delay in the production of both toxins. Results from this study will help to design a novel strategy to control AHPND in shrimp culture.
Influencing intention for a family medicine career may need a whole‐curriculum approach
Authors: Woolley Torres
Published: May 2019

Can socially‐accountable medical education be used to instil values that lead graduates to choose Family Medicine careers? This commentary examines how students choose careers based on their curriculum experiences.
Ligularia dalaolingensis sp. nov. (Asteraceae–Senecioneae) from central China
Authors: Fei Wen‐Qun , Chen Jin‐Liang , Yang Shang‐Lai , Li Dao‐Xin , Gao Xin‐Zhang , Wang Long
Published: May 2019

Ligularia dalaolingensis, a new species from Hubei and Hunan, China, is described and illustrated. It belongs to L. sect. Ligularia ser. Speciosae on the basis of its palmate leaf venation, racemose synflorescence and pappus which is slightly shorter than the tube of the tubular corolla. In the series, its closest relatives are assumed to be L. fischeri and L. stenocephala. From L. fischeri, L. dalaolingensis is readily distinguished by smaller basal leaves, shorter synflorescence, narrower involucres and fewer phyllaries and florets; from L. stenocephala, L. dalaolingensis differs by smaller basal leaves, shorter synflorescence as well as broader bracts. A diagnostic key to Chinese species of L. ser. Speciosae with broadly ovate, ovate or ovate‐lanceolate bracts is provided.
Application of 3D‐printed Customized Guides in Subtalar Joint Arthrodesis
Authors: Duan Xiao‐jun , Fan Hua‐quan , Wang Fu‐you , He Peng , Yang Liu
Published: May 2019

Objective

To explore the feasibility of 3D printed customized guides assisting the precise drilling of Kirschner wires in subtalar joint arthrodesis.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of 29 patients (30 subtalar joints) who underwent subtalar joint arthrodesis between 1 July 2013 and 31 December 2017. The customized guides were designed on a full‐scale 3D polylactic acid model made from computed tomography (CT) data of patients by Model Intestinal Microflora in Computer Simulation (MIMICS) software, which were manufactured by 3D printing technology. A total of 14 joints used customized guides (experimental group); the remained 16 joints used the traditional method (control group). The time of drilling the Kirschner wires to the correct position, the time of subtalar fusion, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, and complications were evaluated in both groups.

Results

All customized guides were successfully manufactured. In the experimental group, it took 2.1 ± 0.7 min to drill the Kirschner wire to the satisfactory position, and 2 cases needed to be re‐drilled; in the control group, it took 4.6 ± 1.9 min to drill the Kirschner wire to the satisfactory position (P < 0.05), and 8 cases needed to be re‐drilled. No serious complications occurred in both groups during and after the surgery. Postoperative radiographic fusion was confirmed in all cases. No significant difference was observed in the fusion time and AOFAS scores 1 year postoperatively between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

It is safe to apply 3D‐printed customized guides for subtalar joint arthrodesis, which can assist the accurate drilling of Kirschner wires into the appropriate position according to the preoperative plan, and reduce the operation time as well as intraoperative radiation.
Pediatric intensive care unit admission due to respiratory syncytial virus: Retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Kang Ji‐Man , Lee Jina , Kim Yun‐Kyung , Cho Hye Kyung , Park Su Eun , Kim Kyung‐Hyo , Kim Min‐Ji , Kim Seonwoo , Kim Yae‐Jean
Published: May 2019

Background

We investigated the characteristics and clinical outcomes of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)‐related pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) hospitalization and assessed the palivizumab (PZ) prophylaxis eligibility according to different guidelines from Korea, EU, and USA.

Methods

In this multicenter study, children <18 years of age hospitalized in six PICU from different hospitals due to severe RSV infection between September 2008 and March 2013 were included. A retrospective chart review was performed.

Results

A total of 92 patients were identified. The median length of PICU stay was 6 days (range, 1–154 days) and median PICU care cost was USD2,741 (range, USD556–98 243). Of 62 patients who were <2 years old at the beginning of the RSV season, 33 (53.2%) were high‐risk patients for severe RSV infection. Hemodynamically significant congenital heart disease (22.6%) was the most common risk factor, followed by chronic lung disease (11.3%), neuromuscular disease or congenital abnormality of the airway (NMD/CAA) (11.3%), and prematurity (8.1%). The percentage of patients eligible for PZ prophylaxis ranged from 38.7% to 48.4% based on the guidelines, but only two (2.2%) received PZ ≤30 days prior to PICU admission. The median duration of mechanical ventilation was longer in children with NDM/CAA than in those without risk factors (26 days; range, 24–139 days vs 6 days, range, 2–68 days, P = 0.033). RSV‐attributable mortality was 5.4%.

Conclusions

Children <2 years old with already well‐known high risks represent a significant proportion of RSV‐related PICU admissions. Increasing of the compliance for PZ prophylaxis practice among physicians is needed. Further studies are needed to investigate the burden of RSV infection in patients hospitalized in PICU, including children with NMD/CAA.
Finding the fragrance genes of wintersweet
Authors: Baral Anirban
Published: May 2019

Fragrant flowers emit a complex mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that we perceive as pleasant. While we know the chemical nature of these volatiles, the molecular traits that regulate their biosynthesis are poorly understood. In this issue, Tian et al. (2019) compare the transcriptomic and proteomic profiles of a scented genotype of wintersweet (Chimonanthus praecox) with a non‐scented one. By correlating the differential gene expression profile with the observed differences in VOC profiles, they attempt to identify the genes that regulate the fragrance of wintersweet.
Robotics Training of Science and Arts Center Teachers: Suleymanpasa/Tekirdag Case
Authors: Erdem Aytekin
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study is to evaluate the opinions of the Science and Arts Center (SAC) teachers regarding the in-service training course on “Robotics Education”. In regards to this, the teachers were expected to evaluate their thoughts and expectations on the robotic education and how much of their expectations were met at the end of the training process. The study has an action research design in which the qualitative data collection tools are used. The study group consists of 9 teachers working at the SAC. For the study, semi-structured forms were used as data collection tools. The data were evaluated with the content analysis method, first in terms of the codes then by the creation of themes. The results of the analyses showed that teachers were satisfied with the training, the perceptions on engineers regarding the task changed, that interest in robots increased and that by understanding the basic operating logic of the robot, they gained self-confidence in regards to performing basic tasks. In line with these results, it is recommended that application-oriented and project-based robotics training is given to teachers.
The Effect of Plyometric Trainings on Vertical-Horizontal Jump and Some Motor Skills in U13 Basketball Players
Authors: Gül Mine , Gül Kemal Gazanfer , Ataç Ömer
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of Plyometric training on vertical-horizontal jump and some motor skills for children aged 13 years who play basketball. In this study voluntary 20 male athletes playing at 23 Nisan Sports Club as aged 13 basketball team whose ages are 13,00 ± 0 (year), body weight 53,86 ± 9,31 (kg), the average size of 162,5 ± 9,68 (cm) and body indexes of 20,34 ± 2,77 kg / m2 participated. All athletes were tested on the first measurements, after randomly divided into control (n=7) and experimental (n=7) groups. 2 days/week during 8 weeks, while the control group was doing basketball training only; the experimental group performed plyometric jump work in addition to basketball technique - tactical training, in the last 15 minutes of the training. All players height, body weight, vertical jump, horizontal jump, hand grip performance and elasticity performance tests were obtained at the beginning and end of the study; by these data using SPSS 18,0 programme with 0,05 significance level, Wilcoxon within group and Mann Withney-U statistical analysis was performed. There was no statistically significant difference in all the variables p> 0.05 level between first and last measurements of the control and experimental groups. In this study, it was understood that the effect of 15-minute plyometric program in basketball technique-tactical training for 2 days/week for 8 weeks in 13 years age group basketball players, vertical-horizontal jumping, hand grip, seated reach& extended flexibility test measurements has no effects.
Development of a Two-Dimensional Thermal Model for Li-Ion Battery Pack With Experimental Validation
Authors: Wang Haoting , Liu Ning , Ma Lin
Published: May 2019

This paper reports the development of a two-dimensional two states (2D2S) model for the analysis of thermal behaviors of Li-ion battery packs and its experimental validation. This development was motivated by the need to fill a niche in our current modeling capabilities: the need to analyze 2D temperature (T) distributions in large-scale battery packs in real time. Past models were predominately developed to either provide detailed T information with high computational cost or provide real-time analysis but only 1D lumped T information. However, the capability to model 2D T field in real time is desirable in many applications ranging from the optimal design of cooling strategies to onboard monitoring and control. Therefore, this work developed a new approach to provide this desired capability. The key innovations in our new approach involved modeling the whole battery pack as a complete thermal-fluid network and at the same time calculating only two states (surface and core T) for each cell. Modeling the whole pack as a complete network captured the interactions between cells and enabled the accurate resolution of the 2D T distribution. Limiting the calculation to only the surface and core T controlled the computational cost at a manageable level and rendered the model suitable for packs at large scale with many cells.
Exact Algebraic Solution of an Optimal Double-Mass Dynamic Vibration Absorber Attached to a Damped Primary System
Authors: Asami Toshihiko
Published: May 2019

This article presents exact algebraic solutions to optimization problems of a double-mass dynamic vibration absorber (DVA) attached to a viscous damped primary system. The series-type double-mass DVA was optimized using three optimization criteria (the H∞ optimization, H2 optimization, and stability maximization criteria), and exact algebraic solutions were successfully obtained for all of them. It is extremely difficult to optimize DVAs when there is damping in the primary system. Even in the optimization of the simpler single-mass DVA, exact solutions have been obtained only for the H2 optimization and stability maximization criteria. For H∞ optimization, only numerical solutions and an approximate perturbation solution have been obtained. Regarding double-mass DVAs, an exact algebraic solution could not be obtained in this study in the case where a parallel-type DVA is attached to the damped primary system. For the series-type double-mass DVA, which was the focus of the present study, an exact algebraic solution was obtained for the force excitation system, in which the disturbance force acts directly on the primary mass; however, an algebraic solution was not obtained for the motion excitation system, in which the foundation of the system is subjected to a periodic displacement. Because all actual vibration systems involve damping, the results obtained in this study are expected to be useful in the design of actual DVAs. Furthermore, it is a great surprise that an exact algebraic solution exists even for such complex optimization problems of a linear vibration system.
Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans Leukotoxin (LtxA) Requires Death Receptor Fas, in Addition to LFA-1, To Trigger Cell Death in T Lymphocytes
Authors: Vega Brian A. , Schober Liam T. , Kim Tami , Belinka Benjamin A. , Kachlany Scott C.
Published: May 2019

Leukotoxin (LtxA) (trade name, Leukothera) is a protein secreted by the oral bacteriumAggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans.A. actinomycetemcomitansis an oral pathogen strongly associated with development of localized aggressive periodontitis. LtxA acts as a virulence factor forA. actinomycetemcomitansby binding to the β2integrin lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1; CD11a/CD18) on white blood cells (WBCs) and causing cell death.
Role of Toll-Like Receptor 5 (TLR5) in Experimental Melioidosis
Authors: Birnie Emma , Weehuizen Tassili A. F. , Lankelma Jacqueline M. , de Jong Hanna K. , Koh Gavin C. K. W. , van Lieshout Miriam H. P. , Roelofs Joris J. T. H. , Budding Andries E. , de Vos Alex F. , van der Poll Tom , Wiersinga W. Joost
Published: May 2019

The Gram-negative intracellular pathogen
Burkholderia pseudomallei
is the causative agent of melioidosis, an important cause of sepsis in Southeast Asia. Recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns by Toll-like receptors (TLRs) is essential for an appropriate immune response during pathogen invasion. In patients with melioidosis, TLR5 is the most abundantly expressed TLR, and a hypofunctional TLR5 variant has been associated with improved survival.
The Significance of Microbial Symbionts in Ecosystem Processes
Authors: Beinart Roxanne A.
Published: May 2019

It is increasingly accepted that the microbial symbionts of eukaryotes can have profound effects on host ecology and evolution. However, the relative contribution that they make directly to ecosystem processes, like energy and nutrient flows, is less explicitly acknowledged and, in many cases, only poorly constrained.
Нелинейные особенности течения жидкости в упругом трубопроводе
Authors: Волобуев Андрей Николаевич , Volobuev Andrey Nikolaevich
Published: May 2019

Рассмотрен процесс течения жидкости в упругом трубопроводе с закрепленными концами. Показано, что в таком трубопроводе возможно возникновение автоколебаний стенки и потока жидкости или флаттера оболочечной моды. Представлено решение системы нелинейных гидродинамических уравнений, описывающих эти автоколебания, в элементарных функциях. Показано, что стоячие волны в упругом трубопроводе формируются не вследствие сложения прямой и обратной бегущих волн.
Моделирование акустических полей, генерируемых фильтрационным потоком в околоскважинной зоне
Authors: Мутовкин Никита Владимирович , Mutovkin Nikita Vladimirovich , Михайлов Дмитрий Николаевич , Mikhailov Dmitrii Nikolaevich , Софронов Иван Львович , Sofronov Ivan L'vovich
Published: May 2019

Рассматривается задача моделирования акустических полей, индуцированных течением флюидов в околоскважинной зоне пласта. Проведено исследование влияния свойств пород-коллекторов, геометрии и фазового состава флюида на акустическое поле в скважине. С помощью численного моделирования показано, что эти факторы существенно влияют на пространственно-частотную картину спектра, и выявлено значительное усиление амплитуды на определенных частотах спектра. Представлены результаты моделирования для различных случаев резервуаров с нефтяными и газовыми скважинами.
Acute necrotising gastritis in a 14-year-old girl
Authors: Arif Sardar Hassan , Mohammed Ayad Ahmad
Published: May 2019

A 14-year-old female patient presented with acute generalised abdominal pain and two attacks of non-bilious vomiting for 2 days. She visited the emergency department and at presentation she was pale, dyspnaeic and there was no jaundice. Abdominal examination showed moderate abdominal distension with generalised abdominal tenderness. The bowel sounds were negative on auscultation. Plain abdominal X-ray showed hugely distended stomach with no free air detected in the peritoneal cavity. During laparotomy there was huge distension and gangrene of the stomach involving the whole stomach up to the fundus. Total gastrectomy done with roux-en-y reconstruction of the gastrointestinal continuity. The histopathological study of the sample showed gastric necrosis.
Wunderlich’s syndrome in pregnancy: a shocking triad
Authors: Kane Daniel , Abdelrahman Mona , Looney Aisling T , Eogan Maeve
Published: May 2019

Wunderlich’s syndrome, non-traumatic renal haemorrhage into the subscapular and perinephric space, in pregnancy, is a very rare clinical entity. We describe a case of Wunderlich’s syndrome in a 29-year-old gravida 5 para 4 who presented to our emergency department with sudden onset severe left flank pain. On assessment, she was clinically shocked—hypotensive, tachycardic and perfused poorly peripherally. Ultrasound of the abdomen and pelvis and subsequent MRI of the left kidney revealed a large hypervascular exophytic lesion arising from the left renal pole—appearance consistent with an angiomyolipoma. This specific presentation is clinically characterised as Lenk’s triad—acute flank pain, flank mass and hypovolaemic shock. The patient was adequately resuscitated and interventional radiological embolisation of the mass was performed. She went on to have an uneventful pregnancy and delivered vaginally after induction at 38 weeks of gestation.