bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Beta Distributions and Sonine Integrals for Bessel Functions on Symmetric Cones
Authors: Rösler Margit , Voit Michael 
Published: April 2018

AbstractThere exist several multivariate extensions of the classical Sonine integral representation for Bessel functions of some indexwith respect to such functions of lower index μ. For Bessel functions on matrix cones, Sonine formulas involve beta densitieson the cone and trace already back to Herz. The Sonine representations known so far on symmetric cones are restricted to continuous ranges, where the involved beta densities are probability measures and the limiting indexdepends on the rank of the cone. It is zero only in the one‐dimensional case, but larger than zero in all multivariate cases. In this paper, we study the extension of Sonine formulas for Bessel functions on symmetric cones to values of ν below the critical limit μ0. This is achieved by an analytic extension of the involved beta measures as tempered distributions. Following recent ideas by A. Sokal for Riesz distributions on symmetric cones, we analyze for which indices the obtained beta distributions are still measures. At the same time, we characterize the indices for which a Sonine formula between the related Bessel functions exists. As for Riesz distributions, there occur gaps in the admissible range of indices, which are determined by the so‐called Wallach set.
Data fitting in Monod-type models with nonlinear growth rates
Authors: Ivanov Tihomir , Velikova Gergana 
Published: April 2018

We consider the classical Monod model and modify it by introducing generic growth rate for the biomass that is monotonically increasing with respect to the functional response. We show that this modification does not lead to qualitatively new possibilities for the model solutions. On the other hand, however, it allows better flexibility in terms of fitting experimental data. In particular, we use experimental data for microbial growth under inhibitory conditions, make parametric identificationВ and show that the modified model performs far better than the classical one.
Discovery of Four Novel Circular Single-Stranded DNA Viruses in Fungus-Farming Termites
Authors: Kerr Mason , Rosario Karyna , Baker Christopher C. M. , Breitbart Mya 
Published: April 2018

ABSTRACT

Here, we describe four novel circular single-stranded DNA viruses discovered in fungus-farming termites (
Odontotermes
sp.). The viruses, named termite-associated circular virus 1 (TaCV-1) through TaCV-4, are most similar to members of the family
Genomoviridae
and were widely detected in African termite mounds.
Acidic Mammalian Chitinase Negatively Affects Immune Responses during Acute and Chronic Aspergillus fumigatus Exposure
Authors: Garth Jaleesa M. , Mackel Joseph J. , Reeder Kristen M. , Blackburn Jonathan P. , Dunaway Chad W. , Yu Zhihong , Matalon Sadis , Fitz Lori , Steele Chad 
Published: April 2018

ABSTRACT

Chitin is a polysaccharide that provides structure and rigidity to the cell walls of fungi and insects. Mammals possess multiple chitinases, which function to degrade chitin, thereby supporting a role for chitinases in immune defense. However, chitin degradation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma. Here, we determined the impact of acidic mammalian chitinase (AMCase) (
Chia
) deficiency on host defense during acute exposure to the fungal pathogen
Aspergillus fumigatus
as well as its contribution to
A. fumigatus
-associated allergic asthma. We demonstrate that chitin in the fungal cell wall was detected at low levels in
A. fumigatus
conidia, which emerged at the highest level during hyphal transition. In response to acute
A. fumigatus
challenge,
Chia
−/−
mice unexpectedly demonstrated lower
A. fumigatus
lung burdens at 2 days postchallenge. The lower fungal burden correlated with decreased lung interleukin-33 (IL-33) levels yet increased IL-1β and prostaglandin E
2
(PGE
2
) production, a phenotype that we reported previously to promote the induction of IL-17A and IL-22. During chronic
A. fumigatus
exposure, AMCase deficiency resulted in lower dynamic and airway lung resistance than in wild-type mice. Improved lung physiology correlated with attenuated levels of the proallergic chemokines CCL17 and CCL22. Surprisingly, examination of inflammatory responses during chronic exposure revealed attenuated IL-17A and IL-22 responses, but not type 2 responses, in the absence of AMCase. Collectively, these data suggest that AMCase functions as a negative regulator of immune responses during acute fungal exposure and is a contributor to fungal asthma severity, putatively via the induction of proinflammatory responses.
Lacrimal gland pleomorphic adenoma and malignant epithelial tumours: clinical and imaging differences
Authors: Young Stephanie Ming , Kim Yoon-Duck , Shin Hyun Jin , Imagawa Yukihiro , Lang Stephanie S , Woo Kyung In 
Published: April 2018

AimsTo investigate the clinical and imaging features of primary and recurrent lacrimal gland pleomorphic adenoma (LGPA), as well as lacrimal gland malignant epithelial tumours (LGMET).MethodsRetrospective comparative case series from September 2000 to September 2016 in a single tertiary institution. Medical records of cases with histopathologically proven primary LGPA (PLGPA), recurrent LGPA (RLGPA) and LGMET were reviewed.ResultsSixty-four patients with LGPA (55 primary and nine recurrent) and 36 patients with LGMET underwent surgical excision in the study period. There was no significant difference in terms of age, gender or laterality. In terms of symptom duration, that of LGMET (7.1 months) was significantly shorter than PLGPA (23.9 months), which in turn was significantly shorter than RLGPA (127.1 months). Proptosis was the most common presenting symptom among all three groups. On CT, LGMET and RLGPA were significantly more likely to have ill-defined margins (p<0.001) and be heterogeneous (p<0.001) than PLGPA. RLGPAs (56%) were significantly more likely to have calcification than LGMET (34%), which in turn was more likely to have calcification than PLGPA (13%); LGMET (40%) and RLGPA (33%) were significantly more likely to have bony invasion than PLGPA (2.2%). On MRI, LGMETs (55%) were significantly more likely to have a tail or wedge sign indicating infiltration into the posterior orbit than PLGPA (0%) or RLGPA (0%).ConclusionOur study adds important information regarding differentiating clinical and radiological features between malignant and benign epithelial lacrimal gland tumours that would aid in their management.
Intent-to-treat analysis of a simultaneous multisite telehealth diabetes prevention program
Authors: Ciemins Elizabeth L , Coon Patricia J , Coombs Nicholas C , Holloway Barbara L , Mullette Elizabeth J , Dudley William N 
Published: April 2018

ObjectiveDetermine the effectiveness of a 16-week modified diabetes prevention program (DPP) administered simultaneously to multiple rural communities from a single urban site, as compared with a similar face-to-face intervention. A 12-week intervention was evaluated to consider minimization of staff costs in communities where resources are limited.Research design and methodsA prospective cohort study compared DPP interventions implemented in rural (via telehealth technology) and urban (face-to-face) communities using an intent-to-treat analysis. Primary outcome measures included 5% and 7% body weight loss. Logistic regression analyses were used to determine predictors of intervention success and included a variable for treatment effect.ResultsBetween 2010 and 2015, up to 667 participants were enrolled in the study representing one urban and 15 rural communities across Montana. The 16-week urban and rural interventions were comparable; 33.5% and 34.6% of participants lost 7% body weight, respectively; 50% and 47% lost 5% (p=0.22). Participants who were male (OR=2.41; 95% CI 1.32 to 4.40), had lower baseline body mass index (OR=1.03; 95% CI 1.01 to 1.07), attended more sessions (OR=1.33; 95% CI 1.11 to 1.58), and more frequently reported (OR=3.84; 95% CI 1.05 to 14.13) and met daily fat gram (OR=4.26; 95% CI 1.7 to 10.6) and weekly activity goals (OR=2.46; 95% CI 1.06 to 5.71) were more likely to meet their 7% weight loss goal. Predictors of meeting weight loss goals were similar for participants enrolled in the 12-week intervention.ConclusionsUsing telehealth technology to administer a modified DPP to multiple rural communities simultaneously demonstrated weight loss results comparable to those in a face-to-face intervention. Given the limitation of resources, linking rural areas to urban centers using telemedicine may increase access to much needed services to prevent or delay progression to diabetes.
Impact of dexmedetomidine infusion during general anaesthesia on incidence of postoperative delirium in elderly patients after major non-cardiac surgery: study protocol of a randomised, double-blinded and placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Wang Bo-Jie , Li Chun-Jing , Hu Jian , Li Huai-Jin , Guo Chao , Wang Zhen-Han , Zhang Qiao-Chu , Mu Dong-Liang , Wang Dong-Xin 
Published: April 2018

IntroductionDelirium is a common complication in the elderly after surgery and is associated with worse outcomes. Multiple risk factors are related with postoperative delirium, such as exposure to general anaesthetics, pain and postoperative inflammatory response. Preclinical and clinical studies have shown that dexmedetomidine attenuated neurotoxicity induced by general anaesthetics, improved postoperative analgesia and inhibited inflammatory response after surgery. Several studies found that intraoperative use of dexmedetomidine can prevent postoperative delirium, but data were inconsistent. This study was designed to investigate the impact of dexmedetomidine administered during general anaesthesia in preventing delirium in the elderly after major non-cardiac surgery.Methods and analysisThis is a randomised, double-blinded and placebo-controlled trial. 620 elderly patients (age ≥60 years) who are scheduled to undertake elective major non-cardiac surgery (with an expected duration ≥2 hours) are randomly divided into two groups. For patients in the dexmedetomidine group, a loading dose dexmedetomidine (0.6 µg/kg) will be administered 10 min before anaesthesia induction, followed by a continuous infusion at a rate of 0.5 µg/kg/hour until 1 hour before the end of surgery. For patients in the control group, normal saline will be administered with an identical rate as in the dexmedetomidine group. The primary endpoint is the incidence of delirium during the first five postoperative days. The secondary endpoints include pain intensity, cumulative opioid consumption and subjective sleep quality during the first three postoperative days, as well as the incidence of non-delirium complications and all-cause mortality within 30 days after surgery.Ethics and disseminationThe study protocol was approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of Peking University First Hospital (2015–987) and registered at Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (http://www.chictr.org.cn) with identifier ChiCTR-IPR-15007654. The results of the study will be presented at academic conferences and submitted to peer-reviewed journals.Trial registration numberChiCRR-IPR-15007654; Pre-results.
Association of seasonal viral acute respiratory infection with pneumococcal disease: a systematic review of population-based studies
Authors: Li You , Peterson Meagan E , Campbell Harry , Nair Harish 
Published: April 2018

ObjectiveAnimal and in vitro studies suggest that viral acute respiratory infection (VARI) can predispose to pneumococcal infection. These findings suggest that the prevention of VARI can yield additional benefits for the control of pneumococcal disease (PD). In population-based studies, however, the evidence is not in accordance, possibly due to a variety of methodological challenges and problems in these studies. We aimed to summarise and critically review the methods and results from these studies in order to inform future studies.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review of population-based studies that analysed the association between preceding seasonal VARI and subsequent PD. We searched MEDLINE, Embase and Global Health databases using tailored search strategies.ResultsA total of 28 studies were included. After critically reviewing the methodologies and findings, 11 studies did not control for seasonal factors shared by VARI and PD. This, in turn, could lead to an overestimation of the association between the two illnesses. One case–control study was limited by its small sample size (n case=13). The remaining 16 studies that controlled for seasonal factors suggested that influenza and/or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections were likely to be associated with the subsequent occurrence of PD (influenza: 12/14 studies; RSV: 4/5 studies). However, these 16 studies were unable to conduct individual patient data-based analyses. Nevertheless, these studies suggested the association between VARI and subsequent PD was related to additional factors such as virus type and subtype, age group, comorbidity status, presentation of PD and pneumococcal serotype.ConclusionsPopulation-based studies do not give consistent support for an association between preceding seasonal VARI and subsequent PD incidence. The main methodological challenges of existing studies include the failure to use individual patient data, control for seasonal factors of VARI and PD, or include other factors related to the association (eg, virus, age, comorbidity and pneumococcal serotype).
Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire: internal validity and reliability for New Zealand preschoolers
Authors: Kersten Paula , Vandal Alain C , Elder Hinemoa , McPherson Kathryn M 
Published: April 2018

ObjectivesThis observational study examines the internal construct validity, internal consistency and cross-informant reliability of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) in a New Zealand preschool population across four ethnicity strata (New Zealand European, Māori, Pasifika, Asian).DesignRasch analysis was employed to examine internal validity on a subsample of 1000 children. Internal consistency (n=29 075) and cross-informant reliability (n=17 006) were examined using correlations, intraclass correlation coefficients and Cronbach’s alpha on the sample available for such analyses.Setting and participantsData were used from a national SDQ database provided by the funder, pertaining to New Zealand domiciled children aged 4 and 5 and scored by their parents and teachers.ResultsThe five subscales do not fit the Rasch model (as indicated by the overall fit statistics), contain items that are biased (differential item functioning (DIF)) by key variables, suffer from a floor and ceiling effect and have unacceptable internal consistency. After dealing with DIF, the Total Difficulty scale does fit the Rasch model and has good internal consistency. Parent/teacher inter-rater reliability was unacceptably low for all subscales.ConclusionThe five SDQ subscales are not valid and not suitable for use in their own right in New Zealand. We have provided a conversion table for the Total Difficulty scale, which takes account of bias by ethnic group. Clinicians should use this conversion table in order to reconcile DIF by culture in final scores. It is advisable to use both parents and teachers’ feedback when considering children’s needs for referral of further assessment. Future work should examine whether validity is impacted by different language versions used in the same country.
Patient trajectories and their impact on mobility, social participation and quality of life in patients with vertigo/dizziness/balance disorders and osteoarthritis (MobilE-TRA): study protocol of an observational, practice-based cohort study
Authors: Kisch Rebecca , Bergmann Antje , Koller Daniela , Leidl Reiner , Mansmann Ulrich , Mueller Martin , Sanftenberg Linda , Schelling Joerg , Sundmacher Leonie , Voigt Karen , Grill Eva 
Published: April 2018

IntroductionMobility limitations have a multitude of different negative consequences on elderly patients including decreasing opportunities for social participation, increasing the risk for morbidity and mortality. However, current healthcare has several shortcomings regarding mobility sustainment of older adults, namely a narrow focus on the underlying pathology, fragmentation of care across services and health professions and deficiencies in personalising care based on patients’ needs and experiences. A tailored healthcare strategy targeted at mobility of older adults is still missing.ObjectiveThe objective is to develop multiprofessional care pathways targeted at mobility sustainment and social participation in patients with vertigo/dizziness/balance disorders (VDB) and osteoarthritis (OA) .MethodsData regarding quality of life, mobility limitation, pain, stiffness and physical function is collected in a longitudinal observational study between 2017 and 2019. General practitioners (GPs) recruit their patients with VDB or OA. Patients who visited their GP in the last quarter will be identified in the practice software based on VDB and OA-related International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision. Study material will be sent from the practice to patients by mail. Six months and 12 months after baseline, all patients will receive a mail directly from the study team containing the follow-up questionnaire. GPs fill out questionnaires regarding patient diagnostics, therapy and referrals.Ethics and disseminationThe study was approved by the ethical committee of the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and of the Technische Universität Dresden. Results will be published in scientific, peer-reviewed journals and at national and international conferences. Results will be disseminated via newsletters, the project website and a regional conference for representatives of local and national authorities.
Pulmonary involvement in Fabry disease: effect of plasma globotriaosylsphingosine and time to initiation of enzyme replacement therapy
Authors: Franzen Daniel , Haile Sarah R , Kasper David C , Mechtler Thomas P , Flammer Andreas J , Krayenbühl Pierre A , Nowak Albina 
Published: April 2018

IntroductionAnderson-Fabry disease (AFD) is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations ofGLAgene leading to reduced α-galactosidase activity and resulting in a progressive accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) and its deacylated derivative, globotriaosyl-sphingosine (Lyso-Gb3). Plasma Lyso-Gb3 levels serve as a disease severity and treatment monitoring marker during enzyme replacement therapy (ERT).MethodsAdult patients with AFD who had yearly pulmonary function tests between 1999 and 2015 were eligible for this observational study. Primary outcome measures were the change in z-score of forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and FEV1/FVC over time. Plasma Lyso-Gb3 levels and the age of ERT initiation were investigated for their association with lung function decline.ResultsFifty-three patients (42% male, median (range) age at diagnosis of AFD 34 (6–61) years in men, 34 (13–67) in women) were included. The greatest decrease of FEV1/FVC z-scores was observed in Classic men (−0.048 per year, 95% CI −0.081 to –0.014), compared with the Later-Onset men (+0.013,95% CI −0.055 to 0.082), Classic women (−0.008, 95% CI −0.035 to +0.020) and Later-Onset women (−0.013, 95% CI −0.084 to +0.058). Cigarette smoking (P=0.022) and late ERT initiation (P=0.041) were independently associated with faster FEV1decline. FEV1/FVC z-score decrease was significantly reduced after initiation of ERT initiation (−0.045 compared with −0.015, P=0.014). Furthermore, there was a trend towards a relevant influence of Lyso-Gb3 (P=0.098) on airflow limitation with age.ConclusionEarly ERT initiation seems to preserve pulmonary function. Plasma Lyso-Gb3 is maybe a useful predictor for airflow limitation. Classic men need a closer monitoring of the lung function.
Cross-sectional relationship between haemoglobin concentration and measures of physical and cognitive function in an older rural South African population
Authors: Payne Collin F , Davies Justine I , Gomez-Olive F Xavier , Hands Katherine J , Kahn Kathleen , Kobayashi Lindsay C , Tipping Brent , Tollman Stephen M , Wade Alisha , Witham Miles D 
Published: April 2018

BackgroundAge cohort differences in haemoglobin concentrations and associations with physical and cognitive performance among populations of lower income and middle-income countries have not previously been described. We examined the association between these factors among older men and women in rural South Africa.MethodsWe analysed cross-sectional data from a population-based study of rural South African men and women aged 40 and over (n=4499), with data drawn from questionnaire responses, a cognitive battery, objective physical function tests and blood tests. Anaemia was defined as a haemoglobin concentration <12 g/dL for women and <13 g/dL for men. We related haemoglobin concentrations to each of age, grip strength, walk speed and a latent cognitive function z-score for men and women separately. We used unadjusted correlations and linear models to adjust for comorbidities and inflammation.ResultsIn total, 1042 (43.0%) women and 833 (40.1%) men were anaemic. Haemoglobin concentrations were inversely correlated with age for men but not for women; in adjusted analyses, haemoglobin was 0.3 g/dL lower per decade older for men (95% CI 0.2 to 0.4 g/dL). In adjusted analyses, haemoglobin concentration was independently associated with grip strength in women (B=0.391, 95% CI 0.177 to 0.605), but this did not reach significance in men (B=0.266, 95% CI −0.019 to 0.552); no associations were observed between haemoglobin levels and walk speed or cognitive score.ConclusionsAnaemia was prevalent in this study population of middle-aged and older, rural South African adults, but in contrast to high-income countries, it was not associated with poor physical or cognitive function. Our findings need to be replicated in other populations.
Healthcare professionals’ understanding of the legislation governing research involving adults lacking mental capacity in England and Wales: a national survey
Authors: Shepherd Victoria , Griffith Richard , Sheehan Mark , Wood Fiona , Hood Kerenza 
Published: April 2018

ObjectiveTo examine health and social care professionals’ understanding of the legislation governing research involving adults lacking mental capacity in England and Wales.MethodsA cross-sectional online survey was conducted using a series of vignettes. Participants were asked to select the legally authorised decision-maker in each scenario and provide supporting reasons. Responses were compared with existing legal frameworks and analysed according to their level of concordance.ResultsOne hundred and twenty-seven professionals participated. Levels of discordance between responses and the legal frameworks were high across all five scenarios (76%–82%). Nearly half of the participants (46%) provided responses that were discordant in all scenarios. Only two participants (2%) provided concordant responses across all five scenarios.DiscussionParticipants demonstrated a lack of knowledge about the legal frameworks, the locus of authority and the legal basis for decision-making. The findings raise concern about the accessibility of research for those who lack capacity, the ability to conduct research involving such groups and the impact on the evidence base for their care.ConclusionThis is the first study to examine health and social care professionals’ knowledge and understanding of the dual legal frameworks in the UK. Health and social care professionals’ understanding and attitudes towards research involving adults with incapacity may warrant further in-depth exploration. The findings from this survey suggest that greater training and education is required.