bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of maternal interleukin-8 (IL-8) in normal-term birth in the human
Authors: Ehsani Vahid , Mortazavi Maryam , Ghorban Khodayar , Dadmanesh Maryam , Bahramabadi Reza , Rezayati Mohammad-Taghi , Javadi-Moghadam Esmat , Rezaei Zahra , Sabzali Zahra , Fatemi Iman , Sheikh Fathollahi Mahmood , Kazemi Arababadi Mohammad
Published: March 2019

Cytokines are the main factors involved in the normal functions of the placenta and delivery process. The aim of this project was to compare serum levels of interleukin-8 (IL-8), IL-6, tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) in term and prolonged-pregnancy mothers and their neonates. This study was performed on 240 participants including 60 term and prolonged-pregnancy neonates and their corresponding mothers. Serum levels of IL-8, IL-6, TNF-α and TGF-β were evaluated by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. The results revealed that IL-8 serum levels were significantly lower in the prolonged-pregnancy mothers and their neonates when compared with term mothers and their neonates. Data analysis also revealed a negative correlation between TGF-β and age of prolonged-pregnancy mothers. A poor positive correlation between IL-6 and head circumference of term neonates was also observed. IL-8 may play crucial roles in the process of on-time delivery and age may significantly affect TGF-β production in prolonged-pregnancy mothers. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6, can also be considered as main factors involved in fetal growth.
Energetic regulation of coordinated leader–follower dynamics during collective invasion of breast cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Jian , Goliwas Kayla F. , Wang Wenjun , Taufalele Paul V. , Bordeleau Francois , Reinhart-King Cynthia A.
Published: March 2019

Significance

Metastasis accounts for most cancer-associated death. To metastasize, cells can move collectively where cells travel together as cohorts to invade surrounding tissues. However, the mechanisms by which cells move collectively are unclear. Utilizing a combination of in vitro, ex vivo, and in silico approaches, we demonstrated that cancer cell collective invasion is regulated by the energetic states of leader–follower cells. Leader cells require more energy than follower cells, and forward invasion of the leader cell consumes and depletes its available energy. A follower cell then takes over the leader position to sustain invasion. Clinically, there is significant interest in metabolic inhibitors to treat cancer, and our results suggest that metastatic migration might also be inhibited by targeting metabolic pathways.
Macroscale intrinsic network architecture of the hypothalamus
Authors: Hahn Joel D. , Sporns Olaf , Watts Alan G. , Swanson Larry W.
Published: March 2019

Control of multiple life-critical physiological and behavioral functions requires the hypothalamus. Here, we provide a comprehensive description and rigorous analysis of mammalian intrahypothalamic network architecture. To achieve this at the gray matter region (macroscale) level, macroscale connection (macroconnection) data for the rat hypothalamus were extracted from the primary literature. The dataset indicated the existence of 7,982 (of 16,770 possible) intrahypothalamic macroconnections. Network analysis revealed that the intrahypothalamic macroconnection network (its macroscale subconnectome) is divided into two identical top-level subsystems (or subnetworks), each composed of two nested second-level subsystems. At the top-level, this suggests a deeply integrated network; however, regional grouping of the two second-level subsystems suggested a partial separation between control of physiological functions and behavioral functions. Furthermore, inclusion of four candidate hubs (dominant network nodes) in the second-level subsystem that is associated prominently with physiological control suggests network primacy with respect to this function. In addition, comparison of network analysis with expression of gene markers associated with inhibitory (GAD65) and excitatory (VGLUT2) neurotransmission revealed a significant positive correlation between measures of network centrality (dominance) and the inhibitory marker. We discuss these results in relation to previous understandings of hypothalamic organization and provide, and selectively interrogate, an updated hypothalamus structure–function network model to encourage future hypothesis-driven investigations of identified hypothalamic subsystems.
Study on mechanical properties and constitutive model of 5052 aluminium alloy
Authors: Song Ping , Li Wenbin , Wang Xiaoming , Xu Wenxu
Published: March 2019

The stress–strain relationship of 5052 aluminium alloy was investigated via quasi-static tensile tests and split Hopkinson pressure bar tests. The specimens were exposed to various temperatures (25–500°C) and strain rates (10−4–0.7 × 104 s−1). At strain rates ranging from 0.001 to 3000 s−1, the material underwent significant work hardening. When the strain rate exceeded 5000 s−1, the work hardening effect decreased and the flow stress was relatively constant. The Johnson–Cook constitutive model was modified to describe the deformation behaviour of the material subjected to high temperatures and strain rates. The accuracy of the modified model was verified through ballistic impact testing.
The microstructure, mechanical properties and corrosion behaviour of Ce-containing Mg-3Sn-1Ca alloy
Authors: Yang Liu , Guo Shuai , Li Guo-Yang , Nie Xiang-Peng , Yang Mu-Nan , Wang Chun-Ming
Published: March 2019

The effects of minor Ce on the microstructure, mechanical properties and corrosion behaviour of Mg-3Sn-1Ca alloy are investigated systematically. The minor Ce can refine the eutectic structure between α-Mg and CaMgSn and make the microstructure more uniform. The maximum ultimate tensile strength and elongation of the alloy with the Ce content of 0.3 wt-% were 152.5 MPa and 4.1%, respectively. Meanwhile, the corrosion resistance of the Ce-containing alloys is improved by Tafel curves and electrochemical impedance spectra, especially when the Ce is up to 0.3 wt-%. The minor Ce can promote the formation of the surface film and makes the corrosion product film to become more compact, which effectively prevents further the occurrence of corrosion of the Mg matrix.
Comparing accuracy between global positioning systems and ultra‐wideband‐based position tracking systems used for tactical analyses in soccer
Authors: Bastida‐Castillo Alejandro , Gómez‐Carmona Carlos D. , De La Cruz Sánchez Ernesto , Pino‐Ortega José
Published: March 2019

Current studies have reported high accuracy in global positioning system (GPS) and recently developed ultra‐wideband (UWB)‐based tracking systems for monitoring time – motion patterns. The accuracy and reliability of both systems may be different in tactical analysis application, an aspect that has never been studied previously. The aims of the present study were: (i) to determine and compare the accuracy of GPS and UWB technologies in soccer players’ positions (ii) to compare the tactical application of both systems. Following institutional ethical approval and familiarisation, 14 well‐trained soccer players performed tests around five courses: (a) field perimeter, (b) halfway line, (c) centre circle, (d) perimeter of the penalty area, and (e) semicircle penalty area. Also, a small‐sided game was played monitored with WIMUPRO™ to determine real and practical differences in accuracy of both systems in tactical analysis. For the GPS, the mean absolute error (N = 9445) of “x” and “y” coordinates was 41.23 ± 17.31 cm and 47.6 ± 8.97 cm, respectively. For UWB, it was 9.57 ± 2.66 cm and 7.15 ± 2.62 cm. The results of the “x” and “y” accuracy comparison were significantly lower in all cases (p < 0.05) with an ES of 0.78 and 0.95, respectively. In a real practical application, the differences of both systems reached 8.31% in typical tactical variables (ES = 0.11). In contrast to GPS‐10Hz, UWB WIMUPRO™‐20 Hz has been demonstrated to be an acceptable technology to estimate the position of players on the pitch with high accuracy and be a useful, automatic, and portable instrument for tactical analysis measurement.
Associations of Maternal Cell-Phone Use During Pregnancy With Pregnancy Duration and Fetal Growth in 4 Birth Cohorts
Authors: Tsarna Ermioni , Reedijk Marije , Birks Laura Ellen , Guxens Mònica , Ballester Ferran , Ha Mina , Jiménez-Zabala Ana , Kheifets Leeka , Lertxundi Aitana , Lim Hyung-Ryul , Olsen Jorn , González Safont Llúcia , Sudan Madhuri , Cardis Elisabeth , Vrijheid Martine , Vrijkotte Tanja , Huss Anke , Vermeulen Roel
Published: March 2019

Results from studies evaluating potential effects of prenatal exposure to radio-frequency electromagnetic fields from cell phones on birth outcomes have been inconsistent. Using data on 55,507 pregnant women and their children from Denmark (1996–2002), the Netherlands (2003–2004), Spain (2003–2008), and South Korea (2006–2011), we explored whether maternal cell-phone use was associated with pregnancy duration and fetal growth. On the basis of self-reported number of cell-phone calls per day, exposure was grouped as none, low (referent), intermediate, or high. We examined pregnancy duration (gestational age at birth, preterm/postterm birth), fetal growth (birth weight ratio, small/large size for gestational age), and birth weight variables (birth weight, low/high birth weight) and meta-analyzed cohort-specific estimates. The intermediate exposure group had a higher risk of giving birth at a lower gestational age (hazard ratio = 1.04, 95% confidence interval: 1.01, 1.07), and exposure-response relationships were found for shorter pregnancy duration (P < 0.001) and preterm birth (P = 0.003). We observed no association with fetal growth or birth weight. Maternal cell-phone use during pregnancy may be associated with shorter pregnancy duration and increased risk of preterm birth, but these results should be interpreted with caution, since they may reflect stress during pregnancy or other residual confounding rather than a direct effect of cell-phone exposure.
Discovery of tandem and interspersed segmental duplications using high-throughput sequencing
Authors: Soylev Arda , Le Thong Minh , Amini Hajar , Alkan Can , Hormozdiari Fereydoun
Published: March 2019

Motivation

Several algorithms have been developed that use high-throughput sequencing technology to characterize structural variations (SVs). Most of the existing approaches focus on detecting relatively simple types of SVs such as insertions, deletions and short inversions. In fact, complex SVs are of crucial importance and several have been associated with genomic disorders. To better understand the contribution of complex SVs to human disease, we need new algorithms to accurately discover and genotype such variants. Additionally, due to similar sequencing signatures, inverted duplications or gene conversion events that include inverted segmental duplications are often characterized as simple inversions, likewise, duplications and gene conversions in direct orientation may be called as simple deletions. Therefore, there is still a need for accurate algorithms to fully characterize complex SVs and thus improve calling accuracy of more simple variants.

Results

We developed novel algorithms to accurately characterize tandem, direct and inverted interspersed segmental duplications using short read whole genome sequencing datasets. We integrated these methods to our TARDIS tool, which is now capable of detecting various types of SVs using multiple sequence signatures such as read pair, read depth and split read. We evaluated the prediction performance of our algorithms through several experiments using both simulated and real datasets. In the simulation experiments, using a 30× coverage TARDIS achieved 96% sensitivity with only 4% false discovery rate. For experiments that involve real data, we used two haploid genomes (CHM1 and CHM13) and one human genome (NA12878) from the Illumina Platinum Genomes set. Comparison of our results with orthogonal PacBio call sets from the same genomes revealed higher accuracy for TARDIS than state-of-the-art methods. Furthermore, we showed a surprisingly low false discovery rate of our approach for discovery of tandem, direct and inverted interspersed segmental duplications prediction on CHM1 (<5% for the top 50 predictions).

Availability and implementation

TARDIS source code is available at https://github.com/BilkentCompGen/tardis, and a corresponding Docker image is available at https://hub.docker.com/r/alkanlab/tardis/.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
The Framework of Historical Oppression, Resilience and Transcendence to Understand Disparities in Depression Amongst Indigenous Peoples
Authors: Burnette Catherine E , Renner Lynette M , Figley Charles R
Published: March 2019

Given chronic experiences of historical oppression, Indigenous peoples tend to experience much higher rates of depression than the general US population, which then, drives disproportionately high rates of suicide and other health disparities. The purpose of this research was to examine the core components of the culturally grounded Framework of Historical Oppression, Resilience, and Transcendence as they relate to depressive symptoms experienced by Indigenous peoples. As part of a larger convergent mixed-methods study, in this quantitative survey component, we utilised data from a sample of 127 Indigenous adults across two Southeastern US tribes. Regression analysis results signified support for the framework, indicating that historical oppression and proximal stress (daily stressors and lower incomes) were risk factors, whereas family resilience and life satisfaction (a measure of transcendence) were protective factors related to depressive symptoms. The results provide a foundation for future research to build upon in identifying culturally relevant risk and protective factors to ameliorate depression and other health disparities.
PS01.200: OPEN IVOR LEWIS ESOPHAGECTOMY WITH AN AGGRESSIVE UPPER MEDIASTINAL LYMPH NODE DISSECTION
Authors: Koike Masahiko , Kodera Yasuhiro
Published: March 2019

Background

The Ivor Lewis procedure consists of open subtotal esophagectomy and intrathoracic esophago-gastric anastomosis. Though this procedure is open surgery, it can minimize the risk of anastomotic leakage. This procedure combined with aggressive upper mediastinal lymph node dissection could achieve satisfactory short-term and long-term outcomes.

Methods

The cases with middle or lower thoracic cancer without metastasis at the cervical area are subjected to this Ivor Lewis procedure. To evade the demerit of thoracotomy, we have employed 1) the 3-field lymphadenectomy in selective patients, 2) the vertical muscle-sparing thoracotomy without transection of muscles and ribs, 3) paravertebral block for postoperative pain.

Results

A total of 246 patients who underwent subtotal esophagectomy (2011.1–2016.12) were analyzed for short-time postoperative outcomes. In 135 patients of the Ivor-Lewis group, prevalence of anastomotic leakage, anastomotic stricture recurrent nerve palsy and the morbidity, defined as Clavien-Dindo classification 2 or further, was 0%, 0.7% and 21% respectively. On the other hand, the incidence of these increased significantly in 111 patients who underwent cervical anastomosis, 10%, 6.3% and 47% respectively. Though Ivor-Lewis was open surgery, 83% patients in the Ivor Lewis group achieved 30 m walking at the ward within postoperative day 2 and the median length of postoperative hospital stay was 16 days (10–83). The survival according to our therapeutic strategy was analyzed in 352 patients who underwent subtotal esophagectomy for thoracic esophageal cancer (2002.1–2012.12). The overall survival was 82.5/83.5/52.1/50.0/32.1% for stage0/I/II/III/IVa (JES10th). The solitary cervical lymph node recurrence was diagnosed in 5 patients of Ivor-Lewis group, but 4 of the patient could be cured by additional cervical lymph node dissection.

Conclusion

Discussion: Intrathoracic anastomosis could minimize the risk of anastomotic leakage, and consequently the total complication rate could be reduced. The strategy that the cervical lymphadenectomy is performed only through the thoracic cavity in the selected patients was acceptable because of our survival data.

Conclusion: Using our Ivor-Lewis procedure for the patients with thoracic esophageal cancer, even the open operation can minimize the risk of complication. Out therapeutic strategy could achieve satisfactory survival results.

Disclosure

All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.
PS02.247: TWO CASES OF NEUROENDOCRINE CARCINOMA OF ESOPHAGOGASTRIC JUNCTION
Authors: Yamada L E O , Ohki Shinji , Ujiie Daisuke , Tada Takeshi , Hanayama Hiroyuki , Saze Zenichiro , Momma Tomoyuki , Hayase Suguru , Gonda Kenji , Nirei Azuma , Okayama Hirokazu , Sakamoto Wataru , Endo Hisahito , Fujita Shotaro , Kikuchi Tomohiro , Saito Motonobu , Kono Koji , Marubashi Shigeru
Published: March 2019

Background

Neuroendocrine cell carcinoma (NEC) of the esophagogastric junction is rare and usually has a very poor prognosis.

Methods

Here we present two cases of NEC occurred in the esophagogastric junction.

Results

Case 1

A 50-year-old man was admitted to the introduction origin medical institute with an abdominal pain and dysphagia. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a type 2 tumor at the esophagogastric junction, and the pathological examination showed the diffuse proliferation of relatively homogeneous tumor cell with chromatin-enriched nuclear and immunohistologically, the tumor cells were positive for Chromogranin A, CD56, AE1/3. MIB-1 index was 80%, we diagnosed neuroendocrine carcinoma (small cell type).

TNM Stage was GE, Type 3, cT4, cN1, cM0 cStage IIIB (ENETS TNM classification) He had undergone total gastrectomy and lower esophagectomy with transhiatal approach and 2 field of lymph node dissection.

Pathological examination revealed NEC component developed under the muscularis mucosa, differentiated adenocarcinoma localized upper the muscularis mucosa and Chromogranin A positive cells were scattered inside.

Pathological findings showed NEC (MIB-1 72.5%) with tub1, 70 × 56 mm, pT3 pN1(7/36), stage IIIB (HER2 score0). Adjuvant chemotherapy using S-1 was started, but the follow up CT showed recurrence in mediastinum, left subclavian and paraaortic lymph nodes 7 months after surgery. S-1 followed by CPT-11 + CDDP, CT showed the shrinkage of paraaortic lymph nodes metastasis. The patient alive for 55 months without any evidence ofprogression being continued chemotherapy.

Case 2

A 57-year-old man was admitted to the introduction origin medical institute with dysphagia. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed a type 2 tumor at the esophagogastric junction, and the pathological examination showed NEC (small cell type). CT and PET revealed mediastinal lymph node metastasis, aortic invasion and adrenal metastasis. TNM stage was NEC, EG, cT3, cN1, cM1 cStage IV. We performed a systemic chemotherapy with CPT-11 + CDDP, the evaluation of treatment effect after 5 course chemotherapy revealed partial response. However the patient underwent the endoscopic stent graft due to stenosis, and died due to progressive disease 18months after chemotherapy induction.

Conclusion

We reported here two cases of NEC occurring in the esophagogastric junction. It's clinical behavior remains unclear and the treatment strategy for NEC of esophagogastric junction is not established. Further investigation of accumulated cases of this rare entity is necessary.

Disclosure

All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.
PS02.251: TWO CASES OF THE ADVANCED ESOPHAGEAL CANCER WHICH WAS ABLE TO IMPROVE QOL BY VATS- E AS PALLIATIVE OPERATION
Authors: Yoshida Takayoshi , Lee Chunyong , Chouchi Takeshi , Komekami Yusuke , Konishi Humio
Published: March 2019

Background

We often troubled with the choice of the treatment for unresctable or elderly advanced esophageal cancer on the keeping of quality of life (QOL) . There are few cases to impair QOL remarkably, because of dysphagia with esophageal stenosis or esophago-tracheal fistula after Chemo-Radiation Therapy. Esophageal bypass including palliative esopagectomy and esophageal stenting are used for the oral intake of these cases.

Methods

We reported two cases of the elderly advanced esophageal cancer which were effective for QOL improvement by palliative Video-Assisted Thoracic Surgery of Esophagus (VATS-E).

Results

Case 1: A 72-year-old woman admitted with dysphagia was found to have advanced esophageal carcinoma, clinical stage IV (T3N2M1). We initiated definitive chemotherapy with combined 5-fluorouracil and cisplatin, to which the patient showed confirmed partial response. Dysphagia was not improved enough. Therefore, she received esophageal stenting with the antireflex valve. She was not able to have enough oral ingestion after stenting. So VATS-esophageal bypass was performed four months after initial treatment. At 2 years after surgery, she was alive and underwent outpatients chemotherapy. She can have normal diet.

Case 2: A 79-year-old woman admitted with vomiting and body weight loss. The diagnosis was advanced esophageal carcinoma, clinical stage IV (T4N3M0). She received definitive Docetaxel chemotherapy because of renal dysfunction, malnutrition, to which patient showed progressive disease. So, VATS-esophageal resection (D0) was performed about 1 months after chemotherapy. There were not postoperative complications. She can have rice gruel diet.

Conclusion

It is difficult to determine which treatment is better esophageal stenting and esophageal palliative operation, because there are few reports that compared the esophageal palliative operation. In late years, VATS become able to be carried out safely. It is lower invasive treatment than thoracotomy. VATS is one of the palliative therapy, but it is necessary to decide the indication carefully in the case that a prognosis is limited. We think that it is useful to have satisfaction of the oral ingestion for cases with the severe stenosis and refractory cases of stenting. It is thought that VATS-E have possibilities to become the useful choice as one means of the palliative operation in consideration of the general status and the prognosis of the patients.

Disclosure

All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.
Long-term proarrhythmic pharmacotherapy among patients with congenital long QT syndrome and risk of arrhythmia and mortality
Authors: Weeke Peter E , Kellemann Jesper S , Jespersen Camilla Bang , Theilade Juliane , Kanters Jørgen K , Hansen Michael Skov , Christiansen Michael , Marstrand Peter , Gislason Gunnar H , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Bundgaard Henning , Jensen Henrik K , Tfelt-Hansen Jacob
Published: March 2019

Aims

It is Class I recommendation that congenital long QT syndrome (cLQTS) patients should avoid drugs that can cause torsades de pointes (TdP). We determined use of TdP risk drugs after cLQTS diagnosis and associated risk of ventricular arrhythmia and all-cause mortality.

Methods and results

Congenital long QT syndrome patients (1995–2015) were identified from four inherited cardiac disease clinics in Denmark. Individual-level linkage of nation-wide registries was performed to determine TdP risk drugs usage (www.crediblemeds.org) and associated risk of ventricular arrhythmias and all-cause mortality. Risk analyses were performed using Cox-hazards analyses. During follow-up, 167/279 (60%) cLQTS patients were treated with a TdP risk drug after diagnosis. Most common TdP risk drugs were antibiotics (34.1%), proton-pump inhibitors (15.0%), antidepressants (12.0%), and antifungals (10.2%). Treatment with a TdP risk drug decreased 1 year after diagnosis compared with 1 year before (28.4% and 23.2%, respectively, P < 0.001). Five years after diagnosis, 33.5% were in treatment (P < 0.001). Risk factors for TdP risk drug treatment were age at diagnosis (5-year increment) [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.07, confidence interval (CI) 1.03–1.11] and previous TdP risk drug treatment (HR = 2.57, CI 1.83–3.61). During follow-up, nine patients were admitted with ventricular arrhythmia (three were in treatment with a TdP risk drug). Eight patients died (four were in treatment with a TdP risk drug). No significant association between TdP risk drug use and ventricular arrhythmias or all-cause mortality was found (P = 0.53 and P = 0.93, respectively), but events were few.

Conclusion

Torsades de pointes risk drug usage was common among cLQTS patients after time of diagnosis and increased over time. A critical need for more awareness in prescribing patterns for this high-risk patient group is needed.
Biofilm development in L. fermentum under shear flow & sequential GIT digestion
Authors: Aziz Kanwal , Tariq Muhammad , Zaidi Arsalan
Published: March 2019

The objective of this study was to investigate biofilm formation by Lactobacillus fermentum under physiologically relevant shear conditions both in the presence and absence of a food matrix and under simulated conditions of digestion. This was done using batch and flow biofilms of L. fermentum strains under conditions simulating digestion in the human gastrointestinal tract and shear flow using a high throughput platform BioFlux 1000Z system. The putative probiotic strain, PL29, was found to be capable of adhesion and biofilm formation in mucin-coated microfluidic channels under liquid flow conditions mimicking those of the GIT. Based on these in vitro measurements, we conclude that L. fermentum strain PL29 could be an effective probiotic for human consumption.
Opioids and Infectious Diseases: A Converging Public Health Crisis
Authors: Schwetz Tara A , Calder Thomas , Rosenthal Elana , Kattakuzhy Sarah , Fauci Anthony S
Published: March 2019

A converging public health crisis is emerging because the opioid epidemic is fueling a surge in infectious diseases, such as human immunodeficiency virus infection with or without AIDS, the viral hepatitides, infective endocarditis, and skin and soft-tissue infections. An integrated strategy is needed to tailor preventive and therapeutic approaches toward infectious diseases in people who misuse and/or are addicted to opioids and to concurrently address the underlying predisposing factor for the infections—opioid use disorder. This commentary highlights the unique and complementary roles that the infectious diseases and substance use disorder communities can play in addressing this crisis of dual public health concerns.
Differential role of MyD88 signaling in Streptococcus suis serotype 2-induced systemic and central nervous system diseases
Authors: Auger Jean-Philippe , Benoit-Biancamano Marie-Odile , Bédard Christian , Segura Mariela , Gottschalk Marcelo
Published: March 2019

Streptococcus suis serotype 2 is an important porcine bacterial pathogen and a zoonotic agent responsible for sudden death, septic shock and meningitis, with exacerbated inflammation being a hallmark of the systemic and central nervous system (CNS) infections. However, S. suis serotype 2 strains are genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous, being composed of a multitude of sequence types (STs) whose virulence greatly varies. Yet, most studies have used ‘classical’ virulent Eurasian ST1 or ST7 strains, even though ST25 and ST28 strains account for most isolates in North America. While recognition of S. suis by innate immune cells has been associated with the myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88)-dependent Toll-like receptor (TLR) pathway in vitro, particularly surface-associated TLR2, little information is available regarding its role in vivo. This study demonstrates for the first time a differential role of MyD88 signaling in S. suis-induced systemic and CNS diseases, regardless of strain background diversity. The MyD88-dependent pathway is critical for the development of systemic disease via its role in inflammation, which subsequently controls bacterial burden. However, and differently from what has been described in vitro, TLR2 and TLR4 individually do not contribute to systemic disease, suggesting possible compensation in their absence and/or a collaborative role with other MyD88-dependent TLRs. On the other hand, CNS disease does not necessarily require MyD88 signaling and, consequently, neither TLR2 nor TLR4, suggesting a partial implication of other pathways. Finally, regardless of its notable heterogeneity, recognition of S. suis serotype 2 appears to be similar, indicating that recognized components are conserved motifs.
ASN-ASAS SYMPOSIUM: FUTURE OF DATA ANALYTICS IN NUTRITION: Modeling complex problems with system dynamics: applications in animal agriculture1
Authors: Nicholson Charles F , Peixoto Simões Andre Rozemberg , LaPierre Paul Andrew , Van Amburgh Michael E
Published: March 2019

Many problematic outcomes in agricultural and food systems have important dynamic dimensions and arise due to underlying system structure. Thus, understanding the linkages between system structure and dynamic behavior often is important for the design and implementation of interventions to achieve sustained improvements. System dynamics (SD) modeling represents system structure using stock-flow-feedback structures expressed as systems of differential equations solved by numerical integration methods. System dynamics methods also encompass a broader methodological approach that emphasizes model structural development and data inputs to replicate one of a limited number of problematic behavioral modes, anticipates dynamic complexity, and focuses on feedback processes arising from endogenous system elements. This paper highlights the process of SD modeling using 2 examples from animal agriculture at different scales. A dynamic version of the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System (CNCPS) that represents outcomes for an individual dairy cow is formulated as an SD model illustrates the benefits of the SD approach in modeling rumen fill and animal performance. At a very different scale, an SD model of the Brazilian dairy supply chain (farms, processing, and consumers) illustrates the country-level impacts of efforts to improve cow productivity and how impacts differ if productivity improvement occurs on small farms rather than large farms. The paper concludes with recommendations about how to increase awareness and training in SD methods to enhance their appropriate use in research and instruction.
A Tool for Automatic Correction of Endogenous Concentrations: Application to BHB Analysis by LC–MS-MS and GC-MS
Authors: Desharnais Brigitte , Lajoie Marie-Jo , Laquerre Julie , Savard Stéphanie , Mireault Pascal , Skinner Cameron D
Published: March 2019

Several substances relevant for forensic toxicology purposes have an endogenous presence in biological matrices: beta-hydroxybutyric acid (BHB), gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), steroids and human insulin, to name only a few. The presence of significant amounts of these endogenous substances in the biological matrix used to prepare calibration standards and quality control samples (QCs) can compromise validation steps and quantitative analyses. Several approaches to overcome this problem have been suggested, including using an analog matrix or analyte, relying entirely on standard addition analyses for these analytes, or simply ignoring the endogenous contribution provided that it is small enough. Although these approaches side-step the issue of endogenous analyte presence in spiked matrix-matched samples, they create serious problems with regards to the accuracy of the analyses or production capacity. We present here a solution that addresses head-on the problem of endogenous concentrations in matrices used for calibration standards and quality control purposes. The endogenous analyte concentration is estimated via a standard-addition type process. This estimated concentration, plus the spiked concentration are then used as the de facto analyte concentration present in the sample. These de facto concentrations are then used in data analysis software (MultiQuant, Mass Hunter, etc.) as the sample’s concentration. This yields an accurate quantification of the analyte, free from interference of the endogenous contribution. This de facto correction has been applied in a production setting on two BHB quantification methods (GC-MS and LC–MS-MS), allowing the rectification of BHB biases of up to 30 μg/mL. The additional error introduced by this correction procedure is minimal, although the exact amount will be highly method-dependent. The endogenous concentration correction process has been automated with an R script. The final procedure is therefore highly efficient, only adding four mouse clicks to the data analysis operations.
The inventories of the Madre de Deus
Authors: van Kessel Elsje
Published: March 2019

This article examines the impact made by the taking of the ship Madre de Deus in 1592 on the circulation of Asian material culture in England. As a Portuguese cargo ship on its way from Goa, the Madre de Deus was filled with precious and exotic objects – an immense treasure for the English privateers who seized it. An examination of the extensive archival record generated by the ship’s capture allows for a reconstruction of the cargo. Probing inventories and other documents for their material and formal qualities as much as for their contents, the article argues that written documents became an instrument with which the English authorities tried to control the uncontrollable movements of the booty. The pathways subsequently followed by some of the items recovered are traced, and the question of how they affected England’s artistic culture is addressed.
Improved dialytic removal of protein-bound uremic toxins by intravenous lipid emulsion in chronic kidney disease rats
Authors: Shi Yuanyuan , Zhang Yumei , Tian Huajun , Wang Yifeng , Shen Yue , Zhu Qiuyu , Ding Feng
Published: March 2019

Background

Protein-bound uremic toxins (PBUTs) have received extensive attention, as their accumulation leads to pleiotropic toxic biological effects, while the removal of these solutes by conventional dialysis therapies is severely hampered. This study aimed to examine whether increased removal of PBUTs could be achieved with intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE).

Methods

PBUTs such as 3-carboxy-4-methyl-5-propyl-2-furanpropionic acid (CMPF), p-cresyl sulfate (PCS) and indoxyl sulfate (IS) were spiked with human serum albumin (HSA) solution and the inhibitory effects of free fatty acid (FFA) on the binding of CMPF, PCS and IS to HSA were examined separately in vitro by ultrafiltration. In vitro dialysis of albumin solution was then performed to investigate the effects of fatty acid (FAs) mixtures infusion on the fractional removal of PBUTs. Finally, the inhibitory effect of FFA on the binding of PBUTs to albumin was examined in uremic rats, and blood purification therapy was conducted to calculate the reduction ratio (RR) and the total solute removal (TSR) of solutes.

Results

The percentage protein binding of CMPF, PCS and IS decreased significantly with increasing FFAs concentrations, and the inhibitory effect was more remarkable with the addition of oleic acid or linoleic acid than that of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid. In vitro infusion of FAs increased the fractional removal of CMPF to 14.40 ± 2.38%. PCS, IS and indole-3-acetic acid removal increased from 8.00 ± 2.43%, 11.68 ± 1.54% and 15.38 ± 3.97%, respectively, at baseline to 28.21 ± 5.99%, 35.42 ± 5.27% and 40.18 ± 5.05%, respectively, when FAs were present. In vivo, rat serum concentrations of free PBUTs were significantly higher in the ILE group than in the control group, and administration of ILE resulted in higher RRs and more TSR for PBUTs after 3 h of hemodialysis (HD) therapy compared with the control group.

Conclusions

Administration of ILE effectively increased the dialytic removal of PBUTs. This method could be applied to current HD therapy.
Laser Ablation of Abnormal Neurological Tissue Using Robotic Neuroblate System (LAANTERN): Procedural Safety and Hospitalization
Authors: Rennert Robert C , Khan Usman , Bartek Jiri , Tatter Stephen B , Field Melvin , Toyota Brian , Fecci Peter E , Judy Kevin , Mohammadi Alireza M , Landazuri Patrick , Sloan Andrew E , Kim Albert H , Leuthardt Eric C , Chen Clark C
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Stereotactic laser ablation (SLA) has demonstrated potential utility for a spectrum of difficult to treat neurosurgical pathologies in multiple small and/or retrospective single-institutional series. Here, we present the safety profile of SLA of intracranial lesions from the Laser Ablation of Abnormal Neurological Tissue using Robotic NeuroBlate System (LAANTERN; Monteris Medical) multi-institutional, international prospective observational registry.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the procedural safety of SLA for intracranial lesions.

METHODS

Prospective procedural safety and hospitalization data from the first 100 treated LAANTERN patients was collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Mean age and baseline Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) were 51(± 17) yr and 83(± 15), respectively. In total, 81.2% of patients had undergone prior surgical or radiation treatment. Most patients had a single lesion (79%) ablated through 1 burr hole (1.2 ± 0.7 per patient), immediately following a lesion biopsy. In total, >90% of the lesion was ablated in 72% of treated lesions. Average total procedural time was 188.2 ± 69.6 min, and average blood loss was 17.7 ± 55.6 ccs. The average length of intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital stays before discharge were 38.1 ± 62.7 h and 61.1 ± 87.2 h, respectively. There were 5 adverse events (AEs) attributable to SLA (5/100; 5%). After the procedure, 84.8% of patients were discharged home. There was 1 mortality within 30 d of the procedure (1/100; 1%), which was not attributable to SLA.

CONCLUSION

SLA is a safe, minimally invasive procedure with favorable postprocedural ICU and hospital utilization profiles.
An Analysis of Tobacco Placement in YouTube Cartoon Series The Big Lez Show
Authors: Ferguson Shelagh , Smith Jack , Hoek Janet
Published: March 2019

Introduction

Social media platforms such as YouTube provide largely unregulated opportunities for covert tobacco product placement that immerse viewers in evolving narratives and surrounding fan-created material. A Winfield Blues product placement appeared in series 3 of The Big Lez Show, a “crude comedy,” DIY animation web series that has garnered more than 70 million views.

Methods

We used a netnographic approach that adapts the traditional, in-person participant observation techniques of ethnography to investigate this online fan and associated paratexts, and conducted a frame-by-frame analysis of the most pertinent 12 minutes and 5 seconds of animation, and 250 pages of paratexts.

Results

The Big Lez show links “Winnie Blues” to seemingly authentic virtual content, including memes, merchandise, discussion groups, and even smartphone apps. These para, or secondary texts, surround the original content, provide opportunities for brand co-creation in online fan forums, and integrate tobacco brands in everyday life.

Conclusions

The Big Lez Show integrates Winnie Blues with popular culture and raises important questions about how social media facilitates tobacco product placement. Policy responses include encouraging social media platforms to include tobacco within webmaster guidelines and requiring site owners to demonstrate their content reaches only those legally able to purchase tobacco.

Implications

Contemporary entertainment using social media platforms can create immersive contexts that present an elusive and ongoing challenge to tobacco control policies. The Big Lez Show’s use of the Winnie Blues brand imagery spawned memes, merchandise, and smartphone apps that amplified the brand’s reach and connection with young people. Policy responses include stronger requirements that webmasters include tobacco product placement within their guidelines or requirements that site owners featuring tobacco imagery demonstrate their sites do not reach those aged below the age at which tobacco may be legally purchased.
Dagger completions and bornological torsion-freeness
Authors: Meyer Ralf , Mukherjee Devarshi
Published: March 2019

We define a dagger algebra as a bornological algebra over a discrete valuation ring with three properties that are typical of Monsky–Washnitzer algebras, namely, completeness, bornological torsion-freeness and a certain spectral radius condition. We study inheritance properties of the three properties that define a dagger algebra. We describe dagger completions of bornological algebras in general and compute some non-commutative examples.
The Life Cycle of Corporate Venture Capital
Authors: Ma Song
Published: March 2019

This paper investigates why industrial firms conduct Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) investment in entrepreneurial companies. I test alternative views on CVC by exploiting the entry, investment, and termination decisions of CVC divisions. CVC entry concentrates in firms that experience deteriorations of internal innovation. At the investment stage, CVCs select startups with a similar technological focus but that have a non-overlapping knowledge base, and they integrate technologies generated from these ventures that create strategic value. CVCs are terminated when parent firms’ innovation recovers. Overall, the strategic desire to fix innovation weaknesses after adverse shocks motivates firms to adopt CVCs.

Received November 15, 2017; editorial decision March 2, 2019 by Editor Francesca Cornelli. Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
A New Tymovirus Isolated From Solanum quitoense: Characterization and Prevalence in Two Solanaceous Crops in Ecuador
Authors: Cornejo-Franco Juan F. , Alvarez-Quinto Robert A. , Grinstead Samuel , Mollov Dimitre , Karasev Alexander V. , Ochoa Jose , Quito-Avila Diego F.
Published: March 2019

Naranjilla (Solanum quitoense Lam.) and tamarillo (S. betaceum Cav.) are two important perennial solanaceous crops grown in Ecuador for the fresh market and juice production. Viruses infecting tamarillo and naranjilla are currently poorly studied, and no clean stock program exists in Ecuador. Here, we report a new virus, provisionally named as naranjilla mild mosaic virus (NarMMV) (genus Tymovirus, family Tymoviridae), isolated from naranjilla grown in an orchard in Pichincha Province, Ecuador. The complete genome of the virus consists of 6,348 nucleotides and encodes three open reading frames typical for members of the genus Tymovirus. Phylogenetically, Chiltepin yellow mosaic virus, Eggplant mosaic virus, and the recently characterized naranjilla chlorotic mosaic virus (NarCMV) were found to be the closest relatives of NarMMV. Unlike NarCMV, the new virus induced mild mosaic in naranjilla and more severe symptoms in tamarillo. Similar to NarCMV, NarMMV was unable to systemically infect potato. Virus surveys found NarMMV prevalent in naranjilla production areas of two provinces of Ecuador, especially where hybrid cultivars of naranjilla were cultivated. NarMMV was also found in field-grown tamarillo. The new virus cross-reacted with antibodies developed against NarCMV. Hence, this antibody will be useful for its field diagnosis using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or immunocapture reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in future virus-free certification programs.
Variation in the Internal Transcribed Spacer Region of Phakopsora pachyrhizi and Implications for Molecular Diagnostic Assays
Authors: Rush Tomás Allen , Golan Jacob , McTaggart Alistair , Kane Cade , Schneider R. W. , Aime M. Catherine
Published: March 2019

Phakopsora pachyrhizi, the causal agent of soybean rust (SBR), is a global threat to soybean production. Since the discovery of SBR in the continental United States, quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) ribosomal DNA locus were established for its rapid detection. However, insufficient data were initially available to test assays against factors that could give rise to misidentification. This study aimed to reevaluate current assays for (i) the potential for false-positive detection caused by nontarget Phakopsora species and (ii) the potential for false-negative detection caused by intraspecific variation within the ITS locus of P. pachyrhizi. A large amount of intraspecific and intragenomic variation in ITS was detected, including the presence of polymorphic ITS copies within single leaf samples and within single rust sori. The diagnostic assays were not affected by polymorphisms in the ITS region; however, current assays are at risk of false positives when screened against other species of Phakopsora. This study raises caveats to the use of multicopy genes (e.g., ITS) in single-gene detection assays and discusses the pitfalls of inferences concerning the aerobiological pathways of disease spread made in the absence of an evaluation of intragenomic ITS heterogeneity.
Cervical Spine Movement During Awake Orotracheal Intubation With Fiberoptic Scope and McGrath Videolaryngoscope in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Cervical Spine Instability: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Dutta Kaustuv , Sriganesh Kamath , Chakrabarti Dhritiman , Pruthi Nupur , Reddy Madhusudan
Published: March 2019

Background:

Cervical spine movement during intubation with direct laryngoscopy can predispose to new-onset neurological deficits in patients with cervical spine instability. While fiberoptic-guided intubation (FGI) is mostly preferred in such patients, this is not always possible. Videolaryngoscopy results in less cervical spine movement than direct laryngoscopy and may be an alternative to FGI in patients with cervical spine instability. The objective of this study was to compare cervical spine movement during awake FGI with those during awake McGrath videolaryngoscope-guided intubation (VGI) in patients undergoing surgery for cervical spine instability.

Methods:

Forty-six adult patients with upper cervical spine instability scheduled for stabilization surgery were randomized to awake FGI or awake VGI. Cervical spine movement during intubation was assessed by changes in lateral fluoroscopic-measured angles (α and β at C1/C2 and C3 levels, respectively) at 3 time points: T1, preintubation; T2, during intubation; T3, postintubation. Motor power was assessed before and after intubation.

Results:

Patient demographics and airway characteristics were similar between the 2 groups. Cervical spine motion (in degrees) during intubation was significantly greater with VGI than FGI at C1/C2 (T3-T1, −8.02±8.11 vs. −1.47±3.31; P<0.001) but not at C3 (T3-T1, −2.17±5.16 vs. −1.85±3.29; P=0.960). No patient developed new-onset motor deficits following intubation in either group.

Conclusions:

Compared with FGI, VGI results in a greater degree of cervical spine movement at C1/C2 but not at C3.