bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum keratin‐18 fragments as cell death biomarker in association with disease progression and prognosis in hepatitis B virus‐related cirrhosis
Authors: Cao Zhujun , Chen Liwen , Li Jing , Liu Yuhan , Bao Rebecca , Liu Kehui , Yan Lei , Ding Yezhou , Guo Qing , Xiang Xiaogang , Xie Jingdong , Lin Lanyi , Xie Qing , Bao Shisan , Wang Hui
Published: April 2019

Extensive hepatocyte death leads to hepatic inflammation and contributes to systemic inflammation in decompensated cirrhosis. We aimed to investigate the prognostic value of serum cell death markers in patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related acute decompensation (AD) of cirrhosis with and without acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF). We studied two cohorts—cohort 1: 201 outpatients with stable chronic hepatitis B (49 cirrhosis); cohort 2: 232 inpatients with HBV‐related cirrhosis admitted for AD. Cell death was determined with serum keratin‐18 (K18) for total death and serum caspase‐cleaved‐K18 (cK18) for apoptosis. Survival analyses were performed using competing risk method. We found that serum K18 and cK18 were significantly (P < 0.001) higher in patients from cohort 2 than those from cohort 1. Among cohort 2, ACLF patients had significantly (P < 0.001) increased K18 and cK18 comparing to those without ACLF. Increased K18 and cK18 were mainly attributed to HBV flare and were associated with liver and coagulation failure. HBV‐AD patients without ACLF who admitted with upper tertile of K18 or cK18 were at higher risk of developing ACLF during follow‐up. Baseline serum K18 or cK18 was significantly associated with transplant‐free 90‐day survival independent of leucocytes, HBV DNA, bacterial infection, encephalopathy and severity scores. The combination of cell death biomarkers significantly improved the prognostic value of the currently established prognostic scores. The reduction of cell death level after standard treatment was associated with increased short‐term survival. In conclusion, measurements of serum K18 or cK18 in HBV decompensated cirrhosis are a promising tool for predicting ACLF and risk stratification of short‐term outcome.
Maternal HBsAg carriers and adverse pregnancy outcomes: A hospital‐based prospective cohort analysis
Authors: Cai Qianying , Liu Haiyan , Han Wenhui , Liu Lili , Xu Yunyun , He Yining , Li Qing , Zhang Miao , Hu Anqun , Zheng Yingjie
Published: April 2019

It is not clear whether chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection during pregnancy can increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes for both mothers and neonates. We conducted a hospital‐based prospective cohort study on pregnant women (PW) and used an analysis strategy that was guided by directed acyclic graphs (DAGs). Maternal characteristics and major adverse pregnancy outcomes were collected both from questionnaires and hospital‐based electronic medical records. Serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) status were determined. In total, 3329 of the 3416 pregnant women who received routine antenatal care in a hospital setting at baseline, including 346 HBsAg carriers, were available for analysis. Maternal HBsAg carrier status was associated with an increased risk of intrahepatic cholestasis pregnancy [aOR (adjusting odds ratio) = 1.70; 95% CI (confidence interval) = 1.16‐2.49], premature rupture of the membranes (aOR = 1.38; 95% CI = 1.00‐1.89) and large for gestational age birth aOR = 1.67; 95% CI = 1.17‐2.39). The risk of intrahepatic cholestasis remained in pregnant women with either HBeAg‐positive (aOR = 2.96; 95% CI = 1.33‐6.62) or HBeAg‐negative (aOR = 1.52; 95% CI =1.00‐2.32)] status; notably, only maternal HBeAg‐negative status was associated with a higher risk of large for gestational age birth (aOR = 1.91; 95% CI = 1.33‐2.76). Our results implied that chronic HBV infection during pregnancy may increase the risk of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, premature rupture of membranes and large for gestational age pregnancies.
Review: Clinical, neuropathological and genetic features of Lewy body dementias
Authors: Hansen D. , Ling H. , Lashley T. , Holton J. L. , Warner T. T.
Published: April 2019

Lewy body dementias are the second most common neurodegenerative dementias after Alzheimer's disease and include dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson's disease dementia. They share similar clinical and neuropathological features but differ in the time of dementia and parkinsonism onset. Although Lewy bodies are their main pathological hallmark, several studies have shown the emerging importance of Alzheimer's disease pathology. Clinical amyloid‐β imaging using Pittsburgh Compound B (PiB) supports neuropathological studies which found that amyloid‐β pathology is more common in dementia with Lewy bodies than in Parkinson's disease dementia. Nevertheless, other co‐occurring pathologies, such as cerebral amyloid angiopathy, TDP‐43 pathology and synaptic pathology may also influence the development of neurodegeneration and dementia. Recent genetic studies demonstrated an important role of APOE genotype and other genes such as GBA and SNCA which seem to be involved in the pathophysiology of Lewy body dementias. The aim of this article is to review the main clinical, neuropathological and genetic aspects of dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson's disease dementia. This is particularly relevant as future management for these two conditions may differ.
Prevalence and clinical features of dual diseases of Alzheimer's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies: A neuroimaging‐based study
Authors: Sakakibara Ryuji , Tateno Fuyuki , Aiba Yosuke , Ogata Tsuyoshi , Kishi Masahiko , Terada Hitoshi , Inaoka Tsutomu , Nakatsuka Tomoya , Katsuragawa Shuichi , Kato Yuuki
Published: April 2019

Background

While dual diseases of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) are documented pathologically, few studies are available concerning the frequency of dual diseases.

Aim

We present our data of the frequency of AD, DLB and dual diseases based on neuroimaging, together with the frequency of Parkinson's disease (PD) without dementia.

Methods

This is a prospective cohort study (745 dementia and/or movement disorder referred patients; recruiting period, 3 years; prospectively follow‐up period, 2.0 ± 1.8 years; age 73.0 ± 6.3 years at the first visit; 360 men, 385 women; all underwent MRI scan). Patients met the published criteria at least once during a course of disease. We included both dopaminergic denervation in the striatum and noradrenergic denervation in the heart to the inclusion criteria of DLB and PD.

Results

Among them, total 476 patients met the criteria as follows: 232 AD (48.7%), 91 DLB (19.1%), 29 dual diseases (6.1%), and 124 PD (26.1%). Patients with dual diseases were initially diagnosed as AD in 18, PD in 8, DLB in two, and Lewy body disease in one.

Conclusion

In the cases presented, 6.1% of patients who visited dementia/movement disorder clinics showed duals diseases. It is therefore important to follow such patients, from the view point of disease progression and necessary care.
Ineffective esophageal motility: Concepts, future directions, and conclusions from the Stanford 2018 symposium
Authors: Gyawali C. Prakash , Sifrim Daniel , Carlson Dustin A. , Hawn Mary , Katzka David A. , Pandolfino John E. , Penagini Roberto , Roman Sabine , Savarino Edoardo , Tatum Roger , Vaezi Michel , Clarke John O. , Triadafilopoulos George
Published: April 2019

Background

Ineffective esophageal motility (IEM) is a heterogenous minor motility disorder diagnosed when ≥50% ineffective peristaltic sequences (distal contractile integral <450 mm Hg cm s) coexist with normal lower esophageal sphincter relaxation (integrated relaxation pressure < upper limit of normal) on esophageal high‐resolution manometry (HRM). Ineffective esophageal motility is not consistently related to disease states or symptoms and may be seen in asymptomatic healthy individuals.

Purpose

A 1‐day symposium of esophageal experts reviewed existing literature on IEM, and this review represents the conclusions from the symposium. Severe IEM (>70% ineffective sequences) is associated with higher esophageal reflux burden, particularly while supine, but milder variants do not progress over time or consistently impact quality of life. Ineffective esophageal motility can be further characterized using provocative maneuvers during HRM, especially multiple rapid swallows, where augmentation of smooth muscle contraction defines contraction reserve. The presence of contraction reserve may predict better prognosis, lesser reflux burden and confidence in a standard fundoplication for surgical management of reflux. Other provocative maneuvers (solid swallows, standardized test meal, rapid drink challenge) are useful to characterize bolus transit in IEM. No effective pharmacotherapy exists, and current managements target symptoms and concurrent reflux. Novel testing modalities (baseline and mucosal impedance, functional lumen imaging probe) show promise in elucidating pathophysiology and stratifying IEM phenotypes. Specific prokinetic agents targeting esophageal smooth muscle need to be developed for precision management.
A global coexpression network of soybean genes gives insights into the evolution of nodulation in nonlegumes and legumes
Authors: Wu Zhihua , Wang Meirong , Yang Siyu , Chen Shengcai , Chen Xu , Liu Chang , Wang Shixiang , Wang Haijiao , Zhang Bao , Liu Hong , Qin Rui , Wang Xuelu
Published: April 2019

A coexpression network is a powerful tool for revealing genes’ relationship with many biological processes. Mass transcriptomic and genomic data from different plant species provide the foundation for understanding the evolution of nodulation across the Viridiplantae at a systematic level.

We used weighted coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) to mine a nodule‐related module (NRM) in Glycine max.

Comparative genomic analysis of 78 green plant species revealed that NRM genes are recruited from different evolutionary nodes along with gene duplication events. A set of core coexpressed genes within legumes may play vital roles in regulating nodule environments essential for nitrogen fixation, including oxygen concentrations, sulfur transport, and iron homeostasis (such as GmCHY). The regulation of these genes occurred mainly at the transcription level, although some of them, such as sulfate transporters, may also undergo positive selection at protein level.

We revealed that ancient orthologs and duplication events before the origin of legumes were preadapted for symbiosis. Conserved coregulated genes found within legumes paved the way for nodule formation and nitrogen fixation. These findings provide significant insights into the evolution of nodulation and indicate promising candidates for identifying other key components of legume nodulation and nitrogen fixation.
Efficacy of a newly developed mouth gel for xerostomia relief—A randomized double‐blind trial
Authors: Barbe Anna Greta , Ludwar Lena , Hamacher Stefanie , Noack Michael Johannes
Published: April 2019

Objectives

To determine the efficacy of a new symptom‐relieving mouth gel vs. a widely used control gel on xerostomic burden.

Materials and methods

This randomized, double‐blind, crossover trial investigated the efficacy of the test gel (Dr. Wolff Gel) vs. control (Biotene) in participants with xerostomia (n = 32; mean age 60 years). Oral examinations were taken at baseline, and xerostomic visual analogue scales (xVAS), after‐use questionnaires and willingness to pay were investigated before and after use.

Results

Neither gel reduced xerostomic burden (xVAS) after 7‐day application. There was some preference for the test gel regarding taste and healthy gum feeling. After 1‐time application, there were differences favouring the test gel for symptom‐relieving effects between test gel and water (p < 0.001), mucosal adhesion (p < 0.001) and taste persistence (p < 0.001). Overall symptomatic relief with the test gel lasted around 2 hr.

Conclusions

No mouth gel alleviated the overall xerostomic burden. Nevertheless, the test gel led to short‐term perceived symptomatic relief and improved patient‐centred outcomes as taste and perceived gum health. The gel will probably mainly be effective at moments that patients mostly suffer from xerostomia. Selection of a product will be based on perceived subjective differences and their value in the context of the overall xerostomic burden.
Ofatumumab in post‐transplantation recurrence of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in a child
Authors: Solomon Sonia , Zolotnitskaya Anna , Del Rio Marcela
Published: April 2019

FSGS is a potentially devastating form of nephrotic syndrome. Treatment of SRNS can be difficult, especially post‐transplantation. The current therapy of post‐transplant SRNS includes plasmapheresis, ACE‐I, CNI, and monoclonal antibodies (rituximab). Patients who are refractory to these interventions have limited therapeutic alternatives. We present a case of a patient with SRNS secondary to FSGS. He did not respond to immunosuppressive medications prior to transplant, progressed to ESRD, and was started on chronic hemodialysis. He received a DDKT which was complicated by post‐transplant FSGS recurrence. A course of plasmapheresis, rituximab, and CNI were administered with some response. Ofatumumab was then given to the patient. As a result, the patient achieved partial remission. Ofatumumab may be a safe and effective option for post‐transplant recurrence of FSGS.
Cloning and Characterization of Luciferase from the Chinese Firefly Lamprigera yunnana
Authors: Liu Gui‐Chun , Zhang Ru , Hou Qing‐Bai , He Jin‐Wu , Dong Zhi‐Wei , Zhao Ruo‐Ping , Wang Wen , Li Xue‐Yan
Published: April 2019

Lamprigera (Lampyridae) is a small genus with only 17 species distributing in Asian countries. Its larviform females and alate males can produce continuously strong yellow‐green light at night. However, no luciferase gene was reported for this genus and its subfamily‐level phylogenetic position still remains uncertain. Here, we cloned the luciferase gene from one Chinese species, Lamprigera yunnana, by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). This luciferase includes 551 deduced amino acids (AA) with the sequence identity of 71.8–76.8%, 67.5–70.7%, 68.4–75.3%, 77.8% and 59.5% to those from Lampyrinae, Luciolinae, Ototretinae, Cyphonocerinae and Photurinae, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses of deduced AA of luciferases suggest that Lamprigera locates outside Lampyrinae, in which it was originally placed in traditional taxonomy. The luciferase was produced in vitro as recombinant protein, and its biochemical properties were characterized. It possesses significant luminescence activity at pH 7.8, and its KM for D‐luciferin and ATP are 61 μm and 122 μm, respectively. It shows the highest activity at 37°C and is completely inactivated at 55°C. It is pH‐sensitive with the maximum emission spectrum of 566 nm at pH 7.8. Our data provide new insights into Lamprigera luciferase and its phylogenetic position.
The Location of Truth: Bodies and Voices in the Italian Asylum Procedure
Authors: Sorgoni Barbara
Published: April 2019

This article analyzes the role increasingly played by oral testimony in asylum procedures in the years 2011–2013, when the “Arab spring” and the war on Libya caused a sudden increase in the number of migrants entering Italy, as well as a peak in rejections. Drawing from ethnographic cases, I suggest that in Italy this shift was based on assumptions about the scientific objectivity and neutrality of interviewing and translation techniques. I argue that such assumptions fall apart under scrutiny by revealing all assessment techniques (both of written evidence and oral testimony) as spaces of contestation. Furthermore, I suggest that they conceal the sharp hardening of European asylum politics under supposedly neutral technicalities. At times of a perceived “refugee crisis,” the mere assessment of the oral narrative allowed for easier and speedier rejections.
Intestinal alkaline phosphatase in the gastrointestinal tract of fish: biology, ontogeny, and environmental and nutritional modulation
Authors: Lallès Jean‐Paul
Published: April 2019

Intestinal alkaline phosphatase is an evolutionarily conserved system that is pivotal in controlling gut and systemic inflammation. Its main properties, essentially discovered in terrestrial mammals, include regulation of enterocyte luminal surface pH and barrier function, detoxication of pro‐inflammatory microbial components, modulation of the gut microbiota and control of nutrient absorption (e.g. calcium, phosphorus, fatty acids). In return, enzymatic activity is modulated by gut microbes, cytokines, dietary nutrients and bioactive food components. Numerous data have been published on intestinal alkaline phosphatase in fish, especially in the contexts of biological development, nutrition and environment for sustainable aquaculture. This review provides a considerable account of basic and applied knowledge pertaining to this important protective enzyme in fish, and concludes that many features of intestinal alkaline phosphatase in fish fit those reported in terrestrial mammals, especially in its modulation by nutrients and bioactives in food. Notably, food intake is a strong inducer of intestinal alkaline phosphatase activity and is often not reported in publications, thus leading to some erroneous conclusions. Gaps in knowledge, e.g. on enzyme isoforms and molecular mechanisms involved in physiological and immunological (inflammatory) responses to biotic and abiotic factors, exist in fish and need to be considered. Future work should take into account food intake and both enzymatic activities as well as isoform expressions in order to further characterise in fish the important defensive functions of this highly conserved intestinal enzyme.
What's so Sectarian about Sectarian Politics? Identity Politics and Authoritarianism in a New Middle East
Authors: Valbjørn Morten
Published: April 2019

Shia/Sunni sectarianism figures prominently in post‐Arab uprising claims that the Middle East is witnessing a darker kind of authoritarianism drawing on exclusionary and xenophobic forms of identity politics. This article explores whether sectarianism per se is associated with a distinct form of identity politics or if authoritarian techniques involving the use of the ‘sectarian card’ should be subsumed under a broader category of authoritarian identity politics involving the inclusion or exclusion of social groups based on identity and implemented with varying degrees of repression. The article shows how Brubaker's analytical distinction between a ‘diacritical’ and ‘normative ordering power’ understanding of religious identities gives rise to different expectations in regard to whether sectarianism leads to different and more violent forms of repression than other forms of identity politics. Against this background, the article compares authoritarian identity politics in Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, and Egypt, which all differ from each other both in terms of the importance of a Shia/Sunni distinction compared to other identity cleavages, and also as regards the intensity and level of the regime's response to the Arab uprisings. From this comparison five general lessons about sectarianism and authoritarian identity politics can be drawn.
Short‐ and Long‐Term Impact of an Undergraduate Suicidology Course
Authors: Muehlenkamp Jennifer J. , Thoen Sophia K.
Published: April 2019

Objective

Suicide prevention models emphasize the importance of education as a foundational element for success. Yet, courses on suicidology are rare and those that do exist focus on clinical intervention skills at the graduate level, missing a critical population of undergraduate students. The current study evaluated the short and long‐term impact of a semester long liberal education undergraduate course in suicidology.

Method

Students enrolled in either the experimental (Understanding Suicide) or control course completed pre‐ post‐ and 4‐month follow‐up surveys assessing objective knowledge about suicide, suicide stigma, attitudes towards suicidal persons, and suicide prevention advocacy.

Results

Mixed repeated measures ANCOVAs indicated significant interactions between course enrollment over time for all the outcome variables. Students in the suicidology course showed significant pre‐ to post‐ increases in knowledge and suicide prevention advocacy, alongside reductions in suicide stigma and negative attitudes compared to students in the control course, who showed no significant pre‐/post changes. All effects were maintained over time.

Conclusion

Providing general education undergraduate courses in suicidology may be an important avenue for building a motivated and informed public that can sustain suicide prevention efforts in their communities.
Handgrip strength, inflammatory markers, and mortality
Authors: Smith Lee , Yang Lin , Hamer Mark
Published: April 2019

Purpose

To investigate the extent to which inflammatory markers explain the association between handgrip strength and mortality.

Methods

Analyses of data from The English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. Handgrip strength and inflammatory marker data (C‐reactive protein and fibrinogen) were collected at baseline (2004/5) and inflammatory marker data at follow‐up (2012/13). Participant data were linked with death records. General linear models were used to explore associations between handgrip strength and inflammatory markers at follow‐up. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to examine associations between grip strength and risk of death. Models were estimated with the covariates age, sex, wealth, physical activity, smoking, depressive symptoms, long‐standing illness, and adiposity.

Results

The sample comprised of 5,240 participants (mean age 65.9 (SD 9.4) years; 53.8% female). Over an average 9.7 ± 1.4 years follow‐up, there were 650 deaths. Inverse associations were evident between handgrip strength and change in inflammatory markers in women only. There was an association between grip strength and lower risk of mortality in women (hazard ratio = 0.85; 95% CI, 0.74, 0.98) after adjusting for age and wealth. The association was attenuated after adjustment for clinical and behavioral risk factors (0.92; 0.79, 1.07), and further attenuated after adjusting for inflammatory markers (0.95; 0.82, 1.11).

Conclusion

Higher grip strength is associated with lower levels of inflammation at 8‐year follow‐up, and inflammatory markers partly explained the association between handgrip strength and mortality.
Platelets stored in whole blood at 4°C: in vivo posttransfusion platelet recoveries and survivals and in vitro hemostatic function
Authors: Slichter Sherrill J. , Fitzpatrick Lynda , Osborne Barbara , Christoffel Todd , Gettinger Irena , Pellham Esther , Bailey S. Lawrence , Jones Mary Kay , Herzig Maryanne C. , Cap Andrew P.
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Ordinarily, whole blood (WB) is separated into components before storage. We assessed the posttransfusion viability and function of platelets (PLTs) if they were stored within WB at 4°C.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Whole blood was obtained from 30 normal subjects and stored at 4°C without agitation for 12 days and for 10, 15, or 22 days with agitation. After WB storage, a PLT concentrate was prepared, and a fresh PLT sample was obtained from each donor. The stored PLTs were labeled with 111In and the fresh with 51Cr, and both were simultaneously transfused into their donor. Blood samples were obtained after transfusion to determine PLT recoveries and survivals. PLT samples from WB before and after storage were also assayed for PLT function and biochemistry.

RESULTS

After storage for 12 days without WB rotation, poststorage PLT counts averaged only 49 ± 12% of baseline values. After storage for 10, 15, or 22 days with end‐over‐end WB rotation, PLT counts averaged 76 ± 14% of baseline values. Fifteen‐day poststorage radiolabeled PLT recoveries averaged 27 ± 11% (49 ± 16% of fresh), and survivals averaged 1.2 ± 0.4 days (16 ± 6% of fresh). in vitro assays demonstrated marked PLT activation after any storage time, and although PLT function decreased over time, stored PLTs were still considered acceptable.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that, during rotated WB storage at 4°C for up to 15 days, PLT yields, poststorage PLT recoveries and survivals, and PLT function should be sufficient to support the short‐term hemostatic needs of traumatized patients.
The localization of a conjunctivoscleral foreign body via high‐resolution microscopy coil magnetic resonance imaging in a dog
Authors: Lavaud Arnold , Lautenschläger Ines E. , Voelter Katrin , Ivan Daniel , Dennler Matthias , Pot Simon A.
Published: April 2019

A 3‐year‐old French bulldog was presented to the ophthalmology service of the Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich with a 3‐day history of conjunctival swelling of the left eye (OS). Ophthalmologic examination revealed a moderate conjunctival hyperemia and chemosis. A migrating foreign body having entered the conjunctival fornix behind the nictitating membrane was suspected. Within the first 24 hours of medical management, OS developed a panuveitis and a scleral perforation was highly suspected. Ocular and orbital ultrasound as well as conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations failed to confirm the presence of a perforating foreign body. A High‐Resolution MRI (HR‐MRI) using a microscopy coil was then performed with findings consistent with a perforating and migrating foreign body. A grass awn of 12 mm length was surgically retrieved “ab externo” from its’ point of entry into the sclera. To the best of our knowledge, HR‐MRI has not yet been used to examine canine eyes. This case report supports the idea that orbital imaging can be greatly enhanced with the introduction of HR‐MRI using microscopy coils with clinically relevant implications.
Evidence‐Based Practice Competence in Nursing Students: An Exploratory Study With Important Implications for Educators
Authors: Lam Christina K. , Schubert Carolyn
Published: April 2019

Background

Evidence‐based practice (EBP) is a core pillar of nursing education and an expectation in clinical practice. Students struggle to conceptualize the use of EBP into actual clinical practice despite the development of EBP competencies.

Aims

This study explored perceptions of EBP education and competence in baccalaureate students using Melnyk's (Worldviews on Evidence‐Based Nursing, 11, 2014 and 5) EBP competencies for practicing registered nurses as a basis for comparison.

Methods

The researchers used a sequential, mixed‐methods design. A survey was developed to assess information sources and patterns of use, and semistructured interviews explored factors affecting students’ understanding of EBP and information‐seeking behaviors in the clinical setting.

Findings

There were 118 participants in the survey and 12 in follow‐up interviews. A major theme was that participants had difficulties distinguishing between EBP and research. Students were able to identify experiences that fostered attainment of basic EBP competencies, such as searching for evidence, but were less able to describe higher‐order activities such as integrating evidence to plan EBP changes or disseminating best practices.

Linking Evidence to Action

Clinical learning environments are an ideal place to apply and see EBP in action, but nurse educators cannot assume students arrive ready to apply EBP knowledge and skills to clinical practice. Nurse educators need evidence‐based tools to assess student EBP competence across a variety of settings. Research examining the generalizability of the EBP competencies in varying curricular models as well as didactic and clinical settings is needed.
Estimating the Potential Output and Output Gap of Ghana
Authors: Atta-Mensah Joseph , Nakijoba Sawuya
Published: April 2019

This paper focuses on the estimation of the potential output of Ghana. Potential output or its derivative the output gap are not observable. However, “potential output” is a powerful conceptual tool that guides analysts and policymakers in gauging whether the current observed economic activity is sustainable and how much of it is greater than or less than potential. Based on Ghanaian GDP annual data from 1960 – 2017, the paper estimates potential output and output gaps using the following methodology: linear time trends, Hodrick-Prescott (HP) filter trends, multivariate HP filter trends, and a production function model. The results show that estimates of the potential output and output gaps are model-dependent as estimates vary from one methodology to the other. The paper recommends that policymakers should not mechanically choose a model to estimate output gap. For the avoidance of costly policy mistakes, the choice of the model should be complemented with sound judgement based on a set of pertinent economic information.
Assessing Horizontal Force Production in Resisted Sprinting: Computation and Practical Interpretation
Authors: Cross Matt R. , Tinwala Farhan , Lenetsky Seth , Brown Scott R. , Brughelli Matt , Morin Jean-Benoit , Samozino Pierre
Published: April 2019

The assessment of horizontal force during overground sprinting is increasingly prevalent in practice and research, stemming from advances in technology and access to simplified yet valid field methods. As researchers search out optimal means of targeting the development of horizontal force, there is considerable interest in the effectiveness of external resistance. Increasing attention in research provides more information surrounding the biomechanics of sprinting in general and insight into the potential methods of developing determinant capacities. However, there is a general lack of consensus on the assessment and computation of horizontal force under resistance, which has resulted in a confusing narrative surrounding the practical applicability of loading parameters for performance enhancement. As such, the aim of this commentary was twofold: to provide a clear narrative of the assessment and computation of horizontal force in resisted sprinting and to clarify and discuss the impact of methodological approaches to subsequent training implementation. Horizontal force computation during resisted sleds, a common sprint-training apparatus in the field, is used as a test case to illustrate the risks associated with substandard methodological practices and improperly accounting for the effects of friction. A practical and operational synthesis is provided to help guide researchers and practitioners in selecting appropriate resistance methods. Finally, an outline of future challenges is presented to aid the development of these approaches.
Calcium-looping reforming of methane realizes in situ CO
2
utilization with improved energy efficiency
Authors: Tian Sicong , Yan Feng , Zhang Zuotai , Jiang Jianguo
Published: April 2019

Calcium-looping reforming of methane helps close the anthropogenic carbon cycle directly at large CO
2
stationary sources.
Spiked Virus Level Needed To Correctly Assess Enteric Virus Recovery in Water Matrices
Authors: Li Qiaozhi , Qiu Yuanyuan , Pang Xiao L. , Ashbolt Nicholas J.
Published: April 2019

The performance of procedures for pathogen log reduction is at the heart of new risk-based guidance/regulation globally, yet the methods for undertaking assessments of pathogen recovery are not standardized despite their fundamental impacts on assessing log reductions. Here we describe the level of spiking agent(s) that is necessary to correctly assess spiked pathogen/surrogate recovery with whatever method is deployed. The significance of our research lies in identifying the importance of the amount of spiking agents for reducing uncertainty in recovery estimates, which will allow the development of a recommendation for spiking experiments, proactively applying this understanding.
Development of an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Rapid Detection of Dengue Virus (DENV) NS1 and Differentiation of DENV Serotypes during Early Infection
Authors: Lai Szu-Chia , Huang Yu-Yine , Shu Pei-Yun , Chang Shu-Fen , Hsieh Po-Shiuan , Wey Jiunn-Jye , Tsai Meng-Hung , Ben Ren-Jy , Hsu Yi-Ming , Fang Yi-Chien , Hsiao Mei-Ling , Lin Chang-Chi
Published: April 2019

Dengue fever, caused by infections with the dengue virus (DENV), affects nearly 400 million people globally every year. Early diagnosis and management can reduce the morbidity and mortality rates of severe forms of dengue disease as well as decrease the risk of wider outbreaks.
Association of income and health-related quality of life in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Guhl Emily , Althouse Andrew , Sharbaugh Michael , Pusateri Alexandra M , Paasche-Orlow Michael , Magnani Jared W
Published: April 2019

Objective

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a patient-centred benchmark promoted by clinical guidelines in atrial fibrillation (AF). Income is associated with health outcomes, but how income effects HRQoL in AF has limited investigation.

Methods

We enrolled a convenience cohort with AF receiving care at a regional healthcare system and assessed demographics, medical history, AF treatment, income, education and health literacy. We defined income as a categorical variable (<$20 000; $20 000–$49 999; $50 000–$99 999; >$100 000). We used two complementary HRQoL measures: (1) the atrial fibrillation effect on quality of life (AFEQT), measuring composite and domain scores (daily activity, symptoms, treatment concerns, treatment satisfaction; range 0–100); (2) the 12-item Short Form Survey (SF-12), measuring general HRQoL with physical and mental health domains (range 0–100). We related income to HRQoL and adjusted for relevant covariates.

Results

In 295 individuals with AF (age 71±10, 40% women), we observed significant differences in HRQoL by income. Higher mean composite AFEQT scores were observed for higher income groups: participants with income <$20 000 had the lowest HRQoL (n=35, 68.2±21.4), and those with income >$100 000 had the highest HRQoL (n=64, 81.9±17.0; p=0.04). We also observed a significant difference by income in the AFEQT daily activity domain (p=0.02). Lower income was also associated with lower HRQoL in the mental health composite score of the SF-12 (59.7±21.5, income <$20 000 vs 79.3±16.3, income >$100 000; p<0.01).

Conclusion

We determined that income was associated with HRQoL in a cohort with prevalent AF. Given the marked differences, we consider income as essential for understanding patient-centred outcomes in AF.
Dark matter gravity waves at LIGO and LISA
Authors: Frampton Paul H.
Published: April 2019

We study the merger rate of dark matter PIMBHs (Primordial Intermediate Mass Black Holes). We conclude that the black holes observed by LIGO in GW150914 and later events were probably not dark matter PIMBHs but rather the result of gravitational collapse of very massive stars. To study the PIMBHs by gravitational radiation will require a detector sensitive to frequencies below 10 Hz and otherwise more sensitive than LIGO. The LISA detector, expected to come online in 2034, will be useful at frequencies below 1 Hz but further gravitational wave detectors beyond LISA, sensitive up to 10 Hz, and higher strain sensitivity will be necessary to fully study dark matter.
Color structure of gluon field magnetic mass
Authors: Kolomoyets Natalia V. , Skalozub Vladimir V.
Published: April 2019

The color structure of the gluon field magnetic mass is investigated in the lattice SU(2) gluodynamics. To realize that the interaction between a monopole–antimonopole string and external neutral Abelian chromomagnetic field flux is considered. The string is introduced in the way proposed by Srednicki and Susskind. The neutral Abelian field flux is introduced through the twisted boundary conditions. Monte Carlo simulations are performed on 4D lattices at finite temperature. It is shown that the presence of the Abelian field flux weakens the screening of the string field. That means decreasing the gluon magnetic mass for this environment. The contribution of the neutral Abelian field has the form of “enhancing” factor in the fitting functions. This behavior independently confirms the long-range nature of the neutral Abelian field reported already in the literature. The comparison with analytic calculations is given.
Features of the edge photoconductivity of gamma-irradiated layered crystals GaS and GaS:Yb under the strong electric field
Authors: Madatov R. S. , Alekperov A. S. , Gadzhieva N. N. , Asadov F. G. , Allahverdiev Sh. A. , Asadov E. G. , Naghiyev T. G.
Published: April 2019

The influence of the surface electric field on the edge photoconductivity (PC) in undoped and ytterbium-doped (N[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] 10[Formula: see text] cm[Formula: see text]) layered GaS crystals at T = 77 K irradiated with gamma quanta was investigated. It was found that the PC of layered crystals in the absorption edge region due to charge exchange of surface levels is formed as a result of electric smoothing of fluctuations in the potential of surface energy bands. The degree of smoothing of the surface bending of the zones depends on the dose of [Formula: see text]-irradiation, the concentration of impurity atoms and also on the magnitude and direction of the transverse electric field.
Thermodynamics kinetics of boron carbide under gamma irradiation dose
Authors: Mirzayev Matlab , Demir Ertugrul , Mammadov Khagani , Mehdiyeva Ravan , Jabarov Sakin , Tugrul A. Beril , Biira Sapina , Tiep Nguyen , Thabethe Thabsile
Published: April 2019

In this paper, high purity boron carbide samples were irradiated by [Formula: see text]Co gamma radioisotope source (0.27 Gy/s dose rate) with 50, 100, 150 and 200 irradiation hours at room-temperature. The unirradiated and irradiated boron carbide samples were heated from 30[Formula: see text]C to 1000[Formula: see text]C at a heating rate of 5[Formula: see text]C/min under the argon gas atmosphere of flow rate 20 ml/min. Thermogravimetric (TG) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) were carried out in order to understand the thermodynamic kinetics of boron carbide samples. The weight kinetics, activation energy and specific heat capacity of the unirradiated and irradiated boron carbide samples were examined in two parts, T [Formula: see text] 650[Formula: see text]C and T [Formula: see text] 650[Formula: see text]C, according to the temperature. The dynamic of quantitative changes in both ranges is different depending on the irradiation time. While the phase transition of unirradiated boron carbide samples occurs at 902[Formula: see text]C, this value shifts upto 940[Formula: see text]C in irradiated samples depending on the irradiation time. The activation energy of the unirradiated boron carbide samples decreased from 214 to 46 J/mol in the result of 200[Formula: see text]h gamma irradiation. The reduction of the activation energy after the irradiation compared to the initial state shows that the dielectric properties of the irradiated boron carbide samples have been improved. After the gamma irradiation, two energy barrier states depending on the absorption dose of samples were formed in the irradiated samples. The first and second energy barriers occurred in 0.56–0.80 and 0.23–0.36 eV energy intervals, respectively. The existence of two energy levels in the irradiated boron carbide indicates that the point defects are at deep levels, close to the valence band.
Advances in the Genetic Basis and Pathogenesis of Sarcomere Cardiomyopathies
Authors: Yotti Raquel , Seidman Christine E. , Seidman Jonathan G.
Published: April 2019

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) are common heart muscle disorders that are caused by pathogenic variants in sarcomere protein genes. HCM is characterized by unexplained cardiac hypertrophy (increased chamber wall thickness) that is accompanied by enhanced cardiac contractility and impaired relaxation. DCM is defined as increased ventricular chamber volume with contractile impairment. In this review, we discuss recent analyses that provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms that cause these conditions. HCM studies have uncovered the critical importance of conformational changes that occur during relaxation and enable energy conservation, which are frequently disturbed by HCM mutations. DCM studies have demonstrated the considerable prevalence of truncating variants in titin and have discerned that these variants reduce contractile function by impairing sarcomerogenesis. These new pathophysiologic mechanisms open exciting opportunities to identify new pharmacological targets and develop future cardioprotective strategies.
Roles of Extracellular Vesicles in High-Grade Gliomas: Tiny Particles with Outsized Influence
Authors: Graner Michael W.
Published: April 2019

High-grade gliomas, particularly glioblastomas (grade IV), are devastating diseases with dismal prognoses; afflicted patients seldom live longer than 15 months, and their quality of life suffers immensely. Our current standard-of-care therapy has remained essentially unchanged for almost 15 years, with little new therapeutic progress. We desperately need a better biologic understanding of these complicated tumors in a complicated organ. One area of rejuvenated study relates to extracellular vesicles (EVs)—membrane-enclosed nano- or microsized particles that originate from the endosomal system or are shed from the plasma membrane. EVs contribute to tumor heterogeneity (including the maintenance of glioma stem cells or their differentiation), the impacts of hypoxia (angiogenesis and coagulopathies), interactions amid the tumor microenvironment (concerning the survival of astrocytes, neurons, endothelial cells, blood vessels, the blood–brain barrier, and the ensuing inflammation), and influences on the immune system (both stimulatory and suppressive). This article reviews glioma EVs and the ways that EVs manifest themselves as autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine factors in proximal and distal intra- and intercellular communications. The reader should note that there is much controversy, and indeed confusion, in the field over the exact roles for EVs in many biological processes, and we will engage some of these difficulties herein.
The Future of Genomic Studies Must Be Globally Representative: Perspectives from PAGE
Authors: Bien Stephanie A. , Wojcik Genevieve L. , Hodonsky Chani J. , Gignoux Christopher R. , Cheng Iona , Matise Tara C. , Peters Ulrike , Kenny Eimear E. , North Kari E.
Published: April 2019

The past decade has seen a technological revolution in human genetics that has empowered population-level investigations into genetic associations with phenotypes. Although these discoveries rely on genetic variation across individuals, association studies have overwhelmingly been performed in populations of European descent. In this review, we describe limitations faced by single-population studies and provide an overview of strategies to improve global representation in existing data sets and future human genomics research via diversity-focused, multiethnic studies. We highlight the successes of individual studies and meta-analysis consortia that have provided unique knowledge. Additionally, we outline the approach taken by the Population Architecture Using Genomics and Epidemiology (PAGE) study to develop best practices for performing genetic epidemiology in multiethnic contexts. Finally, we discuss how limiting investigations to single populations impairs findings in the clinical domain for both rare-variant identification and genetic risk prediction.
Environmental Justice: Establishing Causal Relationships
Authors: Banzhaf H. Spencer , Ma Lala , Timmins Christopher
Published: April 2019

The environmental justice literature has found that the poor and people of color are disproportionately exposed to pollution. This literature has sparked a broad activist movement and several policy reforms in the United States and internationally. In this article, we review the literature documenting correlations between pollution and demographics and the history of the related movement, focusing on the United States. We then turn to the potential causal mechanisms behind the observed correlations. Given its focus on causal econometric models, we argue that economics has a comparative advantage in evaluating these mechanisms. We consider ( a) profit-maximizing decisions by firms, ( b) Tiebout-like utility-maximizing decisions by households in the presence of income disparities, ( c) Coasean negotiations between both sides, ( d) political economy explanations and governmental failures, and ( e) intergenerational transmission of poverty. Proper identification of the causal mechanisms underlying observed disproportionate exposures is critical to the design of effective policy to remedy them.
IL23-Producing Human Lung Cancer Cells Promote Tumor Growth via Conversion of Innate Lymphoid Cell 1 (ILC1) into ILC3
Authors: Koh Jaemoon , Kim Hye Young , Lee Youngha , Park In Kyu , Kang Chang Hyun , Kim Young Tae , Kim Ji-Eun , Choi Murim , Lee Won-Woo , Jeon Yoon Kyung , Chung Doo Hyun
Published: April 2019

Purpose:

The plasticity of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) has been reported in vitro and in the microenvironment of the intestine. However, whether ILC plasticity contributes to regulation of the tumor microenvironment remains unknown. In this study, we explored plasticity of ILCs in human lung cancer.

Experimental Design:

We analyzed immune subsets and cytokine expression in lung cancers freshly obtained from 80 patients and explored conversion of ILC1 into ILC3 in coculture with lung cancer cells. Prognostic effects of converted ILC3 and related pathway were evaluated by retrospective cohort composed of 875 patients with lung cancer.

Results:

Low percentages of ILC1, and high percentages of ILC3 were found in pulmonary squamous cell carcinomas (SqCC) but not adenocarcinomas (ADC). In non–small-cell lung cancers, the percentage of ILC3 was associated with IL23 expression in tumor cells but not immune cells. In cocultures, tumor cells of SqCCs converted ILC1 into ILC3 by producing IL23, thus promoting IL17-mediated tumor cell proliferation. Consistently, among IL17+ immune cells, the percentages of ILCs were higher in SqCCs than ADCs. Furthermore, the numbers of CD3−RORγt+ ILC3, IL17 expression level, and IL23- or IL17RA-expressing tumor cells were associated with short survival of patients with SqCC but not ADC.

Conclusions:

Conversion from ILC1 into ILC3 by IL23-producing SqCCs promotes IL17-mediated tumor progression, resulting in a poor prognosis.
Prognostic Significance of Heart Rate Turbulence Parameters in Patients with Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Bugan Baris , Cekirdekci Elif Ijlal
Published: April 2019

Background: Noncompaction cardiomyopathy (NC) is a rare congenital heart disease characterized by progressive heart failure and life-threatening arrhythmias. Heart rate turbulence (HRT) has been defined as a noninvasive prognostic method to reveal the cardiac death risk in high-risk patients. Objectives: We aimed to assess the cardiac autonomic functions and their relations to the mortality in NC patients. Methods: A total of 60 NC patients and 70 healthy controls were included in this study. All participants underwent 24-h Holter recording to assess the HRT parameters, included turbulence onset (TO), turbulence slope (TS), standard deviation of NN intervals of all normal beats (SDNN) and mean RR interval. Results: NC patients had higher levels of TO than the control group (0.43 ± 4.66% vs. –1.82 ± 2.19%, p = 0.024), but the TS levels of NC patients were lower than those of the control group (3.43 ± 3.28 vs. 4.94 ± 2.86 ms/RR, p = 0.024). Thirteen patients died during follow-up (mean 83.3 ± 32.5 months). TS was the strongest univariate mortality predictor (hazard ratio 10.01 [95% CI 2.22–42.52]; p = 0.004) in univariate Cox regression analysis. In multivariate analysis, LVEF ≤0.40 and TS ≤2.5 ms/RR interval were the only independent predictors of mortality (hazard ratio 5.29; p = 0.004, hazard ratio 13.45; p = 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: Patients with NC showed abnormal HRV and HRT parameters when compared to healthy subjects. Furthermore, impaired HRT reaction in NC is an independent predictor of mortality.