bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Turboexpander-refrigerant to reproduce arctic weather
Authors: Krainov A Yu , Gubanov S M
Published: November 2019

This paper describes a schematic diagram of an air cooler created on the basis of a turboexpander, presents its functioning principle and scopes of application in research and industry. The developed model of an air chiller allows cooling the air in the temperature range of minus 40÷140 °C. The air chiller has software control over time. The developed apparatus is proposed to use as a cooler to simulate the atmosphere of the Arctic in a research laboratory.
Innovation policy in the Arctic as a part of the strategic approach of nation branding of Russia
Authors: Danilova Elena
Published: November 2019

The paper presents the results of a research of the modern political interests and a role of Russia in the Arctic. Two main directions of development and presence of Russia in the Arctic region - economic (production of hydrocarbons) and military (military bases, the fleet, aircraft) are investigated. The conclusion is drawn on need of expansion of influence of Russia in the Arctic along with need of carrying out the balanced flexible policy for a prevention of the geopolitical conflict in the region.
Determination of the complete set of optical parameters of micron-sized polycrystalline CH3NH3PbI3−xClx films from the oscillating transmittance and reflectance spectra
Authors: Zhyrair Gevorkian , Lenrik Matevosyan , Karapet Avjyan , Valeri Harutyunyan , Eduard Aleksanyan , Khachatur Manukyan
Published: November 2019

The complete set of optical parameters of micron-sized polycrystalline CH3NH3PbI3−xClx films deposited by the vacuum co-evaporation of lead iodide and methylammonium chloride is determined by analysis of oscillating optical transmittance and reflectance spectra in the wavelength range 400–1000 nm. It is shown that for a medium and weak absorption region the envelope method is valid for the extraction of refractive index, extinction and absorption coefficient when is using only transmittance spectra. As well thickness of the film is determined from transmittance and reflectance spectra with interference-effect. The absorption coefficient for the strong absorption region and optical band gap (direct transition at E
opt = 1.62 eV) are calculated based on transmittance and reflectance spectra by using conventional approximated formulas.
Frictional property evaluation of aluminium alloy based metal matrix composites under dry braking condition in pin—on—disc system
Authors: P Ashwath , J Joel , P Jeyapandiarajan , M Anthony Xavior , R Rajendran
Published: November 2019

Aluminum alloy based metal matrix composites are widely used in aerospace, military and automotive industry. The aluminium grades used in present research work are Aluminium alloy 6061, Aluminium alloy 2024, LM6. In this research, composites with Aluminum alloy as matrix with 6 weight % of nano alumina as reinforcement were fabricated using two processing technique namely, powder metallurgy technique (cold pressing and microwave sintering), and by squeeze casting technique. Thus fabricated samples were used to study the effect of processing technique on mechanical properties and wear aspects of the composite. Scanning electron microscope data and mechanical property characteristics reveals the presence of nano alumina particles and their uniform distribution in case of powder metallurgy processed samples. Mechanical and wear properties achieved on the fabricated samples were compared with the existing aerospace brake pad material. The data related to wear characteristics correlated with the number of landings for the existing brake pad material is considered as the bench mark data and the feasibility of replacing it with the developed composites were studied.
Superconducting receiver arrays for magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Zevenhoven Koos C J , Mäkinen Antti J , Ilmoniemi Risto J
Published: November 2019

Superconducting QUantum-Interference Devices (SQUIDs) make magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) possible in ultra-low microtesla-range magnetic fields. In this work, we investigate the design parameters affecting the signal and noise performance of SQUID-based sensors and multichannel magnetometers for MRI of the brain. Besides sensor intrinsics, various noise sources along with the size, geometry and number of superconducting detector coils are important factors affecting the image quality. We derive figures of merit based on optimal combination of multichannel data, analyze different sensor array designs, and provide tools for understanding the signal detection and the different noise mechanisms. The work forms a guide to making design decisions for both imaging- and sensor-oriented readers.
Classification and retrieval of thoracic diseases using patch-based visual words: a study on chest x-rays
Authors: France K , Jaya A
Published: November 2019

This research work explores the Content-Based Medical Image Retrieval system (CBMIR) to categorization and retrieval of different types of common thoracic diseases such as Atelectasis, cardiomegaly, Effusion, Infiltration etc, based on local patch representation of ‘Bag of Visual Words’ approach, when performing patch-based image representation, the selected patch size has significant impact on image categorization and retrieval process. It is a challenging task in selecting the appropriate patch size to the current experimental dataset. Chest Xray8 medical image database is used, to analyze the impact of different patch size to categorize and retrieval of eight common thorax diseases. 1000 frontal view x-ray images is obtained (100 images from each category and 200 images combination of more than one disease) from the database. Different sizes of image patches (16 × 16 and 32 × 32) and different codebook sizes (500, 1000, 1500, 2000) created to identify best precision and recall values. From the excremental result, 32 × 32 patch size and 1500 codebook size gives the good precision and recall value using Radial Basis Function SVM kernel.
Mindfulness and Meditative Movement Interventions for Men Living With Cancer: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Ford C Graham , Vowles Kevin E , Smith Bruce W , Kinney Anita Y
Published: November 2019

Background

Mindfulness-based interventions, Tai Chi/Qigong, and Yoga (defined here as meditative cancer interventions [MCIs]) have demonstrated small to medium effects on psychosocial outcomes in female breast cancer patients. However, no summary exists of how effective these interventions are for men with cancer.

Purpose

A meta-analysis was performed to determine the effectiveness of MCIs on psychosocial outcomes (e.g., quality of life, depression, and posttraumatic growth) for men with cancer.

Methods

A literature search yielded 17 randomized controlled trials (N = 666) meeting study inclusion criteria. The authors were contacted to request data for male participants in the study when not reported.

Results

With the removal of one outlier, there was a small effect found in favor of MCIs across all psychosocial outcomes immediately postintervention (g = .23, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.02 to 0.44). Studies using a usual care control arm demonstrated a small effect in favor of MCIs (g = .26, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.42). However, there was insufficient evidence of a superior effect for MCIs when compared to an active control group, including attention control. Few studies examined both short-term and long-term outcomes.

Conclusions

There is evidence for MCIs improving psychosocial outcomes in male cancer survivors. However, this effect is not demonstrated when limited to studies that used active controls. The effect size found in this meta-analysis is smaller than those reported in MCI studies of mixed gender and female cancer patient populations. More rigorously designed randomized trials are needed that include active control groups, which control for attention, and long-term follow-up. There may be unique challenges for addressing the psychosocial needs of male cancer patients that future interventions should consider.
A Dilemma for Modest Actual Intentionalism
Authors: Lin Szu-Yen
Published: November 2019

Modest actual intentionalism is a major position on interpretation in contemporary analytic aesthetics. The position consists of a disjunctive formulation according to which work-meaning is determined by the author’s intention when such intention succeeds or by non-intentionalistic factors when it fails. I challenge the disjunctive view by presenting a constructive dilemma, the conclusion being that modest actual intentionalism ends up either making non-intentionalistic factors idle or making authorial intent superfluous.
Linking early life risk factors to frailty in old age: evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study
Authors: Li Yaxi , Xue Qian-Li , Odden Michelle C , Chen Xi , Wu Chenkai
Published: November 2019

Background

exposures in childhood and adolescence may impact the development of diseases and symptoms in late life. However, evidence from low- and middle-income countries is scarce. In this cross-sectional study, we examined the association of early life risk factors with frailty amongst older adults using a large, nationally representative cohort of community-dwelling Chinese sample.

Methods

we included 6,806 participants aged $\ge$60 years from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. We measured 13 risk factors in childhood or adolescence through self-reports, encompassing six dimensions (education, family economic status, nutritional status, domestic violence, neighbourhood and health). We used multinomial regression models to examine the association between risk factors and frailty. We further calculated the absolute risk difference for the statistically significant factors.

Results

persons with higher personal and paternal education attainment, better childhood neighbourhood quality and better childhood health status had lower risk of being frail in old age. Severe starvation in childhood was associated with higher risk of prefrailty. The risk differences of being frail were 5.6% lower for persons with a high school or above education, 1.5% lower for those whose fathers were literate, 4.8% lower for the highest neighbourhood quality and 2.9% higher for worse childhood health status compared to their counterparts.

Conclusions

unfavorable socioeconomic status and worse health condition in childhood and adolescence may increase the risk of late-life frailty amongst Chinese older adults.
Predicting synthetic lethal interactions using heterogeneous data sources
Authors: Liany Herty , Jeyasekharan Anand , Rajan Vaibhav
Published: November 2019

Motivation

A synthetic lethal (SL) interaction is a relationship between two functional entities where the loss of either one of the entities is viable but the loss of both entities is lethal to the cell. Such pairs can be used as drug targets in targeted anticancer therapies, and so, many methods have been developed to identify potential candidate SL pairs. However, these methods use only a subset of available data from multiple platforms, at genomic, epigenomic and transcriptomic levels; and hence are limited in their ability to learn from complex associations in heterogeneous data sources.

Results

In this article, we develop techniques that can seamlessly integrate multiple heterogeneous data sources to predict SL interactions. Our approach obtains latent representations by collective matrix factorization-based techniques, which in turn are used for prediction through matrix completion. Our experiments, on a variety of biological datasets, illustrate the efficacy and versatility of our approach, that outperforms state-of-the-art methods for predicting SL interactions and can be used with heterogeneous data sources with minimal feature engineering.

Availability and implementation

Software available at https://github.com/lianyh.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Neoliberalism, the Far Right, and the Disparaging of “Social Justice Warriors”
Authors: Phelan Sean
Published: November 2019

This paper examines the cultural politics of a conjunctural moment where the terms of neoliberal hegemony have been destabilized and the far right has been reinvigorated. Instead of simply assuming the “end” of neoliberalism, I explore the potential ideological and communicative affinities between neoliberal political rationality and online media practices that exemplify the emboldening of racist, misogynistic, and authoritarian discourses. I ground the argument by examining how the notion of social justice has been articulated in two distinct contexts: in disparaging representations of “social justice warriors” that originally circulated in “alt-right” sub-cultures, but which have since been increasingly mainstreamed, and in the critique of social justice formulated by the neoliberal theorist Friedrich Hayek. After clarifying my core argument about neoliberalism and the far right, I end by reflecting on how the figure of the social justice warrior has also been a site of intra-left antagonisms.
Benefits of Exclusive Enteral Nutrition in Adults With Complex Active Crohn’s Disease: A Case Series of 13 Consecutive Patients
Authors: Liu Jianliang , Andrews Jane M , Sammour Tarik , Bryant Robert V , Grafton Rachel , Simpson Eliza , Putrus Emma , Nixon Claire
Published: November 2019

Background and Aims

Immunosuppressive therapy is routine for adults with complex active Crohn’s disease (CD), however carries risks, particularly in the setting of sepsis. Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) is widely used in paediatric CD, yet efficacy data in adults are sparse. This study evaluated outcomes of EEN in adults with complex active CD.

Methods

Between December 2016 and June 2018, 13 patients with complex active CD (range 20–74 years) managed at a single hospital received 2 or more weeks of EEN. Patients were offered EEN based on either malnutrition, contraindication to immunosuppression, or CD refractory to multiple therapies. Subjective and objective outcomes were recorded at 2 and 6 weeks and compared with baseline data.

Results

Nine of 13 patients experienced subjective improvement in wellbeing. Objective improvements included nine CRP decrements (median = 87.7 mg/L, IQR = 70.6 mg/L), nine serum albumin increments (median = 7 g/L, IQR = 4 g/L), and six gained weight (median = 3.6 kg, IQR = 3.0 kg). All five patients with complex abscess resolved without surgery. One ileocolic fistula and one enterocutaneous fistula achieved resolution without surgery. One of two perianal fistulae cases resolved without surgery. Seven of 10 patients initially thought to need surgery avoided it due to disease resolution. Only one of the three patients who proceeded to surgery sustained a post-operative complication. There were no EEN-associated complications.

Conclusions

In complex active CD, our real-world data show that EEN improves wellbeing, decreases inflammatory markers, leads to healthy weight gain, reduces need for surgical intervention, and reduces postoperative complications.
Preferences of Adult Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease for Attributes of Clinical Trials: Evidence From a Choice-Based Conjoint Analysis
Authors: Wood Dallas , Kosa Katherine , Brown Derek , Ehrlich Orna G , Higgins Peter D R , Heller Caren
Published: November 2019

Background

Clinical trial recruitment is the rate-limiting step in developing new treatments. To understand inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patient recruitment, we investigated two questions: Do changes in clinical trial attributes, like monetary compensation, influence recruitment rates, and does this influence differ across subgroups?

Methods

We answered these questions through a conjoint survey of 949 adult IBD patients.

Results

Recruitment rates are influenced by trial attributes: small but significant increases are predicted with lower placebo rates, reduced number of endoscopies, less time commitment, open label extension, and increased involvement of participant’s primary GI physician. A much stronger effect was found with increased monetary compensation. Latent class analysis indicated three patient subgroups: some patients quite willing to participate in IBD trials, some quite reluctant, and others who can be persuaded. The persuadable group is quite sensitive to monetary compensation, and payments up to US$2,000 for a 1-year study could significantly increase recruitment rates for IBD clinical trials.

Conclusions

This innovative study provides researchers with a framework for predicting recruitment rates for different IBD clinical trials.
Practical Aspects of Proactive TDM for Anti-TNF Agents in IBD: Defining Time Points and Thresholds to Target
Authors: Martins Camilla de Almeida , Moss Alan C , Sobrado Carlos Walter , Queiroz Natália Sousa Freitas
Published: November 2019

Serum biologic drug concentrations have been associated with favorable therapeutic outcomes in inflammatory bowel diseases, while low or undetectable drug levels have been linked to immunogenicity and treatment failure. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in the context of clinical relapse can guide decision making and is supported by professional groups. Proactive TDM consists of measurement of trough concentration with the goal of optimizing drug concentration in patients with clinical response/remission. Recent findings suggest that this approach can improve the efficacy of antitumor necrosis factor agents (anti-TNF). In this article, we summarize the rationale for proactive TDM for anti-TNF agents in practice, identify limitations in this evidence base, and provide practical advice for use in the clinic.
EACVI survey on standardization of cardiac chambers quantification by transthoracic echocardiography
Authors: Ajmone Marsan Nina , Michalski Blazej , Cameli Matteo , Podlesnikar Tomaz , Manka Robert , Sitges Marta , Dweck Marc R , Haugaa Kristina H
Published: November 2019

Aims

To evaluate standard reporting of cardiac chambers size and function by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), the EACVI Scientific Initiatives Committee performed a survey across European centres. In particular, the routine use of three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) and speckle tracking-derived myocardial deformation imaging (STE) was explored.

Methods and results

A total of 96 European Echocardiography Laboratories from 22 different countries responded to the survey, which consisted of 20 questions. For most of the standard parameters of cardiac chamber size and function, answers from the centres were homogeneous and demonstrated good adherence to current recommendations. In particular, all centres assessed left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) size combining diameter measurements with volumes obtained using the bi-plane Simpson’s method. More variability was observed in the measurements of the right heart chambers and thoracic aorta. Interestingly, >90% of centres had access to 3DE and STE; however, the large majority of centres reserved the use of these techniques for selected cases, particularly for the measure of 3D LV volumes and ejection fraction and global longitudinal strain in patients being considered for cardiac device implantation, surgical intervention (valvular heart disease) or screened for cardiotoxicity. Only 10% of centres used 3DE for right ventricular and LA volumes. Also, <30% of the centres used LA strain imaging.

Conclusion

In Europe, a good adherence to current recommendations was observed for most of the standard parameters of cardiac chambers quantification by TTE. Advanced echocardiography modalities, such as 3DE and STE, are widely available but used only in selected cases.
Risk stratifying asymptomatic left ventricular systolic dysfunction in the community: beyond left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Burocchi Simone , Gori Mauro , Cioffi Giovanni , Calabrese Alice , Canova Paolo , De Maria Renata , Grosu Aurelia , Fontana Alessandra , Iacovoni Attilio , Ferrari Paola , Volpe Massimo , De Biase Luciano , Parati Gianfranco , Gavazzi Antonello , Senni Michele
Published: November 2019

Aims

Midwall fractional shortening (MWFS) is a measure of left ventricular (LV) systolic function that is more reliable in case of concentric LV geometry compared to LV ejection fraction (LVEF). We hypothesized that MWFS might predict heart failure (HF) and death in a high-risk asymptomatic population, beyond other echocardiographic parameters.

Methods and results

Among 4047 subjects aged ≥55/≤80 years followed by 10 general practitioners in northern Italy, the DAVID-Berg study prospectively enrolled 623 asymptomatic outpatients at increased risk for HF. Baseline evaluation included clinical visit, electrocardiogram, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and echocardiogram. Mean age of the population was 69 ± 7 years, 56% were men, 88% had hypertension, mean LVEF was 61 ± 9%, and mean MWFS 16.2 ± 3.3. During a median follow-up of 5.7 years, 95 subjects experienced HF/death events. At Cox analysis, lower MWFS was the only echocardiographic parameter, among structural/functional ones, associated with higher risk of HF/death [hazard ratio (HR) 0.89, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.84–0.95, Padjusted < 0.001]. The risk of HF/death related to clinical data and NT-proBNP (baseline model) was reclassified by echocardiography only when MWFS was included into the model (baseline C-statistics 0.761; adding conventional structural/functional echocardiographic data 0.776, P = 0.09; adding MWFS 0.791, P = 0.007). Compared to subjects with normal LVEF and MWFS, only subjects with combined systolic dysfunction (11% of the population) were at higher risk (P = 0.001 for both abnormal; P > 0.24 for either LVEF or MWFS abnormal).

Conclusion 

DAVID-Berg data suggest to include MWFS assessment in clinical practice, a simple and reliable echocardiographic parameter able to improve risk stratification in subjects at high risk for HF.
Outcomes and management of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy in pregnancy: a case report
Authors: Schiavone Marco , Calcagnino Margherita , Mazzanti Andrea , Bonanomi Carla
Published: November 2019

Background

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is an inherited disease with an estimated prevalence of up to 1:5000 in the general population. Few cases of ARVC during pregnancy are described in literature.

Case summary

A 32-year-old primigravida was referred to our clinic during the 32nd gestational week. Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy diagnosis with biventricular involvement was made according to Task Force criteria. Beta-blocker therapy was started and an elective caesarean section was planned, during the 37th gestational week; no complications occurred. Thirteen months after delivery, the patient was readmitted in our hospital due to an episode of pre-syncope and after team discussion, an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) was implanted.

Discussion

This case suggests that the absence of signs and symptoms of heart failure (HF) at a first evaluation plays a major role to predict maternal and foetal outcome in ARVC. Our experience is consistent with the evidence that indicates a favourable outcome in asymptomatic patients treated with optimal medical therapy during pregnancy. In our case, despite no major HF or arrhythmic complications during pregnancy, delivery, and puerperium, we observed an arrhythmic disease progression more likely independent from pregnancy, leading to ICD implantation.
Impact of limited English proficiency on presentation and clinical outcomes of patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Biswas Sinjini , Dinh Diem , Lucas Mark , Duffy Stephen J , Brennan Angela , Liew Danny , Cox Nicholas , Smith Karen , Andrew Emily , Nehme Ziad , Reid Christopher M , Lefkovits Jeffrey , Stub Dion
Published: November 2019

Aims

To evaluate the association of limited English proficiency (LEP) with reperfusion times and outcomes in patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods and results

This cohort study included 5385 patients who underwent PPCI in 2013–2017 and were prospectively enrolled in the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry. Data linkage to government administrative datasets was performed to identify patients’ preferred spoken language, socioeconomic status, and ambulance utilization data. Patients who had a preferred spoken language other than English were defined as having LEP. Of the study cohort, 430 patients (8.0%) had LEP. They had longer mean symptom-to-door time (STDT) [164 (95% confidence interval, CI 149–181) vs. 136 (95% CI 132–140) min, P < 0.001] but similar mean door-to-balloon time [79 (95% CI 72–87) vs. 76 (95% CI 74–78) min, P = 0.41]. They also had higher major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE; 13.5% vs. 9.9%; P = 0.02), severe left ventricular dysfunction (11.0% vs. 8.4%, P = 0.02), and heart failure (HF) hospitalizations within 30 days of PPCI (5.1% vs. 2.0%, P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, LEP did not independently predict 30-day MACCE [odds ratio (OR) 1.16, 95% CI 0.79–1.69; P = 0.45] but was an independent predictor of both prolonged STDT ≥ 120 min (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.02–1.52; P = 0.03) and 30-day HF hospitalizations (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.21–3.36; P = 0.008).

Conclusion

Patients with LEP undergoing PPCI present later and are more likely to have HF readmissions within 30 days of percutaneous coronary intervention, but with similar short-term MACCE. More effort to provide education in varied languages on early presentation in STEMI is required.
Follow-up outcomes after the frozen elephant trunk technique in chronic type B dissection
Authors: Charchyan Eduard , Breshenkov Denis , Belov Yuriy
Published: November 2019

OBJECTIVES

Our goal was to present our experience with a hybrid approach to the frozen elephant trunk (FET) technique for the treatment of patients with chronic type B aortic dissection.

METHODS

Between January 2013 and July 2019, 86 patients underwent the FET procedure at our centre. In 20 patients, the indication was chronic type B aortic dissection with a concomitant proximal aortic lesion. We evaluated the sites of proximal and distal entries, luminal communication and originating visceral branches in the computed tomography scan data. Primary end points were hospital deaths, complications and follow-up survival. Secondary end points included reintervention, thrombosis of the false lumen and aortic remodelling.

RESULTS

There were no deaths, neurological complications or paraplegia during hospitalization; however, a few patients (10%) had temporary acute renal failure or required secondary aortic reintervention during the follow-up period. We performed thoracic endovascular aortic repair with stable aortic remodelling during follow-up. The follow-up survival rate was 92.3%, and 87.5% of cases did not require aortic reintervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The FET technique is an effective method for treating chronic Stanford type B aortic dissection in patients at high risk of retrograde type A aortic dissection, concomitant disease of the proximal aorta and unsuitable anatomy for thoracic endovascular aortic repair, which allows for single-stage radical correction. Compared with thoracic endovascular aortic repair, the FET technique excludes the risk of type Ia endoleak, retrograde type A aortic dissection and possible stent graft migration. This technique provides comparable midterm follow-up outcomes and freedom from reintervention.
One-year outcomes in atrial fibrillation presenting during infections: a nationwide registry-based study
Authors: Gundlund Anna , Olesen Jonas Bjerring , Butt Jawad H , Christensen Mathias Aagaard , Gislason Gunnar H , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Køber Lars , Kümler Thomas , Fosbøl Emil Loldrup
Published: November 2019

Aims

Thromboprophylaxis guidelines for patients with concurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) during infections are unclear and not supported by data. We compared 1-year outcomes in patients with infection-related AF and infection without AF.

Methods and results

By crosslinking Danish nationwide registry data, AF naïve patients admitted with infection (1996–2016) were identified. Those with AF during the infection (infection-related AF) were matched 1:3 according to age, sex, type of infection, and year with patients with infection without AF. Outcomes (AF, thromboembolic events) were assessed by multivariable Cox regression. The study population comprised 30 307 patients with infection-related AF and 90 912 patients with infection without AF [median age 79 years (interquartile range 71–86), 47.6% males in both groups]. The 1-year absolute risk of AF and thromboembolic events were 36.4% and 7.6%, respectively (infection-related AF) and 1.9% and 4.4%, respectively (infection without AF). In the multivariable analyses, infection-related AF was associated with an increased long-term risk of AF and thromboembolic events compared with infection without AF: hazard ratio (HR) 25.98, 95% confidence interval (CI) 24.64–27.39 for AF and HR 2.10, 95% CI 1.98–2.22 for thromboembolic events. Further, differences in risks existed across different subtypes of infections.

Conclusion

During the first year after discharge, 36% of patients with infection-related AF had a new hospital contact with AF. Infection-related AF was associated with increased risk of thromboembolic events compared with infection without AF and our results suggest that AF related to infection may merit treatment and follow-up similar to that of AF not related to infection.
Developing a pediatric pain data repository
Authors: Donado Carolina , Lobo Kimberly , Berde Charles B , Bourgeois Florence T
Published: November 2019

The management of pediatric pain typically consists of individualized treatment plans and interventions that have not been systematically evaluated. There is an emerging need to create systems that can support the translation of clinical discoveries, facilitate the assessment of current interventions, and improve the collection of patient-centered data beyond routine clinical information. We present the development of the pediatric pain data repository, a custom-built system developed at Boston Children’s Hospital by a multidisciplinary pain treatment service. The Repository employs a web platform to collect standardized patient-reported outcomes and integrates this with electronic medical record data. To date, we have collected information on 2577 patients and anticipate adding approximately 500 new patients per year. Major strengths of the Repository include collection of extensive longitudinal patient-reported outcomes, automated clinical data abstraction, and integration of the system into clinical workflows to support medical decision making.
TXNIP induced by MondoA, rather than ChREBP, suppresses cervical cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion
Authors: Zhang Junhua , Tian Xingbo , Yin Huifang , Xiao Songshu , Yi Shuijing , Zhang Youzhong , Zeng Fei
Published: November 2019

Evidence has indicated the associations between thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP) and cancers. However, the role of TXNIP in cervical cancer remains unclear. Hence, this study aims to investigate the role of TXNIP in regulating cervical cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. TXNIP expression can be regulated by either MondoA or ChREBP in a cell- or tissue- dependent manner. Thus, we also explored whether TXNIP expression in cervical cancer can be regulated by MondoA or ChREBP. Our results showed that TXNIP expression was decreased in cervical cancer cells (HeLa, SiHa, CaSki, MS751, C-33A). Furthermore, TXNIP overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion in HeLa cells, whereas TXNIP silencing exerted the opposite effect in C-33A cells. Moreover, TXNIP expression could be induced by MondoA, rather than ChREBP in HeLa cells. Additionally, MondoA overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion through upregulating TXNIP in HeLa cells. In summary, TXNIP induced by MondoA, rather than ChREBP, suppresses cervical cancer cell proliferation, migration and invasion. Our findings provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer.
Accuracy improvement of phase estimation in electron holography using noise reduction methods
Authors: Midoh Yoshihiro , Nakamae Koji
Published: November 2019

We try to improve the limit of the phase estimation of the interference fringe at low electron dose levels in electron holography by a noise reduction method. In this paper, we focus on unsupervised approaches to apply it to electron beam-sensitive and unknown samples and describe an overview of denoising methods used widely in image processing, such as wiener filter, total variation denoising, nonlocal mean filters and wavelet thresholding. We compare the wavelet hidden Markov model (WHMM) denoising that we have studied so far with the other conventional noise reduction methods. We evaluate the denoise performance of each method using the peak signal-to-noise ratio between noise-free and the target holograms (noisy or denoised holograms) and the root mean-square error (RMSE) between the true phase of the fringe and the measured phase by the discrete Fourier transform phase estimator. We show the denoised holograms for simulation and experimental data by using each noise reduction method and then discuss evaluation indexes obtained from these denoised holograms. From experimental results, it can be seen that the WHMM denoising can reduce the RMSE of fringe phase to about 1/4.5 for noisy simulation holograms and it has stable and good performance for noise reduction of observed holograms with various image qualities.
From heart-forming region to ballooning chambers
Authors: van den Hoff Maurice J. B. , Moorman Antoon F. M.
Published: November 2019

This chapter describes the formation of the adult four-chambered heart from the precardiac mesodermal cells. The precardiac mesoderm develops into a linear heart tube by the process of folding. The subsequent increase in size of the heart by the addition of precursor cells derived from the first and second heart fields is discussed. For the sake of clarity, the chapter describes the addition of precursor cells to the inflow and outflow, separately. Next, the formation of the ventricular chambers with respect to ballooning and differentiation into a compact and trabecular layer is discussed. Finally, the formation of the septa in the heart tube is described, creating the adult four-chambered heart.
Functional anatomy of right heart valves
Authors: Selton-Suty Christine , Huttin Olivier , Venner Clément , Juillière Yves
Published: November 2019

This chapter summarizes the anatomical features of right heart valves. The tricuspid valve usually comprises three leaflets (anterior, septal, and posterior) separated by three commissures (anteroseptal, posteroseptal, and anteroposterior). The tricuspid valve apparatus consists of papillary muscles and chordae with high variability in number, length, shape, and arrangement of papillary muscles. The tricuspid valve leaflets are attached to a fibrous annulus with an ovoid saddle shape. The pulmonary valve and the aortic valve have identical architecture: three cusps (anterior, left, and right) separated by commissures, a fibrous ring, sinuses, and the sinotubular junction. Good knowledge of tricuspid and pulmonary valve functional anatomy is of clinical importance in the understanding of primary and secondary valvular dysfunction and in the development of new surgical and percutaneous therapeutic strategies.
Kinematical investigation of possible fast collimated outflows in twelve planetary nebulae
Authors: Rechy-García J S , Guerrero M A , Duarte Puertas S , Chu Y-H , Toalá J A , Miranda L F
Published: November 2019

A significant fraction of planetary nebulae (PNe) exhibit collimated outflows, distinct narrow kinematical components with notable velocity shifts with respect to the main nebular shells typically associated with low-ionization compact knots and linear or precessing jet-like features. We present here a spatio-kinematical investigation of a sample of 12 PNe with morphologies in emission lines of low-ionization species suggestive of collimated outflows. Using archival narrow-band images and our own high-dispersion long-slit echelle spectra, we confirm the presence of collimated outflows in Hen 2-429, J 320, M 1-66, M 2-40, M 3-1, and NGC 6210 and possibly in NGC 6741, for which the spatio-kinematical data can also be interpreted as a pair of bipolar lobes. The presence of collimated outflows is rejected in Hen 2-47, Hen 2-115, M 1-26, and M 1-37, but their morphology and kinematics are indicative of the action of supersonic outflows that have not been able to pierce through the nebular envelope. In this sense, M 1-66 appears to have experienced a similar interaction between the outflow and nebular envelope, but, as opposed to these four PNe, the outflow has been able to break through the nebular envelope. It is suggested that the PNe without collimated outflows in our sample are younger or descend from lower mass progenitors than those that exhibit unambiguous collimated outflows.
Freshwater Perkinsea: diversity, ecology and genomic information
Authors: Jobard M , Wawrzyniak I , Bronner G , Marie D , Vellet A , Sime-Ngando T , Debroas D , Lepère C
Published: November 2019

Studies on freshwater Perkinsea are scarce compared to their marine counterparts; they are therefore not well ecologically characterized. In this study, we investigated the diversity, distribution and ecological role of Perkinsea in freshwater ecosystems. Our approach included (1) the phylogenetic analyses of near full-length SSU and LSU sequences of freshwater Perkinsea, (2) a meta-analysis of public Perkinsea 18S ribosomal RNA gene sequences available from the freshwater environments (25 lakes, 4 rivers), (3) microscopic observations of Perkinsea associated with planktonic communities and (4) single amplified genome analysis. Whereas Perkinsea appear to be rare in river ecosystems (85 reads), they are found in almost all of the lakes studied. However, their diversity does vary considerably between lakes (from 0 to 2 463 Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs)). Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Parvilucifera/Dinovorax/Snorkelia and Perkinsus/Xcellia/Gadixcellia clades resulted from an initial speciation event. This second clade is further split into well-supported, monophyletic groups, including a clade dominated by freshwater representatives, which is further structured into three distinct subclades: freshwater clade 1, freshwater clade 2 and a freshwater and brackish clade. The Perkinsea Single Amplified Genome (SAG) as well as most of the abundant Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) fall into freshwater clade 2. The tyramide signal amplification-fluorescent in situ hybridization method showed an internal association between Perkinsea and the colonial phytoplankton Sphaerocystis. The Single Amplified Genome (SAG) annotation contained 698 genes and gene ontology terms could be assigned to 486 protein-coding genes. Although the number of genes appears to be low (10.6% of the entire gene set assessed by BUSCO), the analysis of the proteome revealed some putative secreted virulence factors. This study showed a large distribution of Perkinsea across lake ecosystems and potential parasitic association with phytoplankton. However, further investigations are needed for a better knowledge on the role of these microorganisms in freshwater ecosystems.
Use of effective training and quality assurance strategies is associated with high-fidelity EBI implementation in practice settings: a case analysis
Authors: Dolcini M Margaret , Davey-Rothwell Melissa A , Singh Ryan R , Catania Joseph A , Gandelman Alice A , Narayanan Vasudha , Harris Justin , McKay Virginia R
Published: November 2019

High-quality implementation of evidence-based interventions is important for program effectiveness and is influenced by training and quality assurance (QA). However, gaps in the literature contribute to a lack of guidance on training and supervision in practice settings, particularly when significant adaptations in programs occur. We examine training and QA in relationship to program fidelity among organizations delivering a widely disseminated HIV counseling and testing EBI in which significant adaptations occurred due to new testing technology. Using a maximum variation case study approach, we examined training and QA in organizations delivering the program with high- and low-fidelity (agencies: 3 = high; 3 = low). We identified themes that distinguished high- and low-fidelity agencies. For example, high-fidelity agencies more often employed a team approach to training; demonstrated use of effective QA strategies; leveraged training and QA to identify and adjust for fit problems, including challenges related to adaptations; and understood the distinctions between RESPECT and other testing programs. The associations between QA and fidelity were strong and straightforward, whereas the relationship between training and fidelity was more complex. Public health needs high-quality training and QA approaches that can address program fit and program adaptations. The study findings reinforced the value of using effective QA strategies. Future work should address methods of increasing program fit through training and QA, identify a set of QA strategies that maximize program fidelity and is feasible to implement, and identify low-cost supplemental training options.
Transcript degradation and codon usage regulate gene expression in a lytic phage†
Authors: Jack Benjamin R , Boutz Daniel R , Paff Matthew L , Smith Bartram L , Wilke Claus O
Published: November 2019

Many viral genomes are small, containing only single- or double-digit numbers of genes and relatively few regulatory elements. Yet viruses successfully execute complex regulatory programs as they take over their host cells. Here, we propose that some viruses regulate gene expression via a carefully balanced interplay between transcription, translation, and transcript degradation. As our model system, we employ bacteriophage T7, whose genome of approximately sixty genes is well annotated and for which there is a long history of computational models of gene regulation. We expand upon prior modeling work by implementing a stochastic gene expression simulator that tracks individual transcripts, polymerases, ribosomes, and ribonucleases participating in the transcription, translation, and transcript-degradation processes occurring during a T7 infection. By combining this detailed mechanistic modeling of a phage infection with high-throughput gene expression measurements of several strains of bacteriophage T7, evolved and engineered, we can show that both the dynamic interplay between transcription and transcript degradation, and between these two processes and translation, appear to be critical components of T7 gene regulation. Our results point to targeted degradation as a generic gene regulation strategy that may have evolved in many other viruses. Further, our results suggest that detailed mechanistic modeling may uncover the biological mechanisms at work in both evolved and engineered virus variants.
Quantification of Plasmodiophora brassicae Resting Spores in Soils Using Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Authors: Wen Rui , Lee Jillian , Chu Mingguang , Tonu Nazmoon , Dumonceaux Tim , Gossen Bruce D. , Yu Fengqun , Peng Gary
Published: November 2019

Plasmodiophora brassicae, an obligate soilborne pathogen that causes clubroot on Brassica crops, is spreading rapidly in western Canada, threatening canola production in the region. Bioassays and molecular assays have been used to estimate the concentration of P. brassicae resting spores in soil, which can affect clubroot incidence and severity on crops. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) is a promising new approach for quantification of pathogen inoculum owing to its low sensitivity to inhibitors and consistency at low target concentrations. The objective of this study was to assess ddPCR against existing quantitative PCR (qPCR) for potential advantage and/or improvement in quantifying P. brassicae resting spores in soil. The new protocol enumerated resting spores accurately in spiked potting mix or soil samples ranging from 102 to 107 spores per gram. At a spore concentration ≥107 spores per gram, however, ddPCR became less accurate, with a tendency of overestimation. The protocol was validated by quantifying the resting spores in spiked brown, dark brown, and black soils using both ddPCR and qPCR simultaneously. These soil types are found commonly on the Canadian Prairies, and they vary in texture, pH, and organic content. ddPCR showed similar results among the different soil types, whereas qPCR often displayed lower counts for the same spore concentration, with the amplification of DNA inhibited completely in black soil samples. The inhibition can be removed by a 10-fold dilution of DNA samples. The results show that ddPCR can be a more versatile tool than qPCR for detection and quantification of P. brassicae resting spores in soil samples.
ST3GAL3, ST3GAL4, and ST3GAL6 differ in their regulation of biological functions via the specificities for the α2,3‐sialylation of target proteins
Authors: Qi Feng , Isaji Tomoya , Duan Chengwei , Yang Jie , Wang Yuqin , Fukuda Tomohiko , Gu Jianguo
Published: November 2019

The α2,3‐sialylation of N‐glycans is considered important but complicated because the functions of the three β‐galactoside α2,3‐sialyltransferases, ST3GAL3, ST3GAL4, and ST3GAL6, could be compensating for one another. To distinguish their specific functions, we established each individual knockout (KO) cell line. Loss of either the ST3GAL3 or ST3GAL6 genes decreased cell proliferation and colony formation, as opposed to the effect in the ST3GAL4 KO cells. The phosphorylation levels of ERK and AKT were significantly suppressed in the ST3GAL6 KO and ST3GAL3 KO cells, respectively. The cell aggregations were clearly observed in the KO cells, particularly the ST3GAL3 KO and ST3GAL6 KO cells, and the expression levels of E‐cadherin and claudin‐1 were enhanced in both those cell lines, but were suppressed in the ST3GAL4 KO cells. Those alterations were reversed with an overexpression of each corresponding gene in rescued cells. Of particular interest, the α2,3‐sialylation levels of β1 integrin were clearly suppressed in the ST3GAL4 KO cells, but these were increased in the ST3GAL3 KO and ST3GAL6 KO cells, whereas the α2,3‐sialylation levels of EGFR were significantly decreased in the ST3GAL6 KO cells. The decrease in α2,3‐sialylation increased the α2,6‐sialylation on β1, but not EGFR. Furthermore, a cross‐restoration of each of the three genes in ST3GAL6 KO cells showed that overexpression of ST3GAL6 sufficiently rescued the total α2,3‐sialylation levels, cell morphology, and α2,3‐sialylation of EGFR, whereas the α2,3‐sialylation levels of β1 were greatly enhanced by an overexpression of ST3GAL4. These results clearly demonstrate that the three α2,3‐sialyltransferases modify characteristic target proteins and regulate cell biological functions in different ways.