bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alpha modulation during working memory encoding predicts neurocognitive impairment in ADHD
Authors: Lenartowicz Agatha , Truong Holly , Salgari Giulia C. , Bilder Robert M. , McGough James , McCracken James T. , Loo Sandra K.
Published: March 2019

Background

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with working memory (WM) deficits. However, WM is a multiprocess construct that can be impaired through several pathways, leaving the source of WM impairments in ADHD unresolved. In this study, we aim to replicate, in an independent sample, previously reported deficits in component processes of WM deficits in ADHD and expand to consider their implications for neurocognitive outcomes.

Methods

In 119 children (7–14 years old, 85 with ADHD), we used electroencephalography measures to quantify component processes during performance of a spatial working memory task. We quantified stimulus encoding using alpha range (8–12 Hz) power; vigilance by the P2 event‐related potential to cues; and WMmaintenance by occipital‐alpha and frontal‐theta (4–7 Hz) power. These measures were evaluated against metrics of executive function, ADHD symptoms, and academic achievement.

Results

Encoding alpha‐power decreases and cue P2 amplitude were attenuated in ADHD, whereas occipital‐alpha power during maintenance was significantly greater in ADHD, consistent with a compensatory response to weak encoding. Weak alpha modulation during encoding was associated with poorer reading comprehension and executive function, as well as enhanced ADHD symptoms. Previously reported effects in frontal‐theta power failed to replicate.

Conclusions

Stimulus encoding, a component process of WM coupled to alpha modulation, is impaired in ADHD, and, unlike WM maintenance or vigilance processes, has implications outside of the laboratory via a relationship with executive function, and, to a weaker extent, reading comprehension.
Putting Goal‐Oriented Patient Care Into Practice
Authors: Reuben David B. , Jennings Lee A.
Published: March 2019

New efforts have begun to transform healthcare to focus on patient‐centered care. Such efforts will be facilitated by eliciting, operationalizing, and measuring the attainment of patient‐identified goals of healthcare. This article describes a practical approach to goal setting and measurement that can be used in efforts to implement patient‐centered care.
Altered haemodynamics causes aberrations in the epicardium
Authors: Perdios Chrysostomos , Parnall Matthew , Pang Kar Lai , Loughna Siobhan
Published: March 2019

During embryo development, the heart is the first functioning organ. Although quiescent in the adult, the epicardium is essential during development to form a normal four‐chambered heart. Epicardial‐derived cells contribute to the heart as it develops with fibroblasts and vascular smooth muscle cells. Previous studies have shown that a heartbeat is required for epicardium formation, but no study to our knowledge has shown the effects of haemodynamic changes on the epicardium. Since the aetiologies of many congenital heart defects are unknown, we suggest that an alteration in the heart's haemodynamics might provide an explanatory basis for some of them. To change the heart's haemodynamics, outflow tract (OFT) banding using a double overhang knot was performed on HH21 chick embryos, with harvesting at different developmental stages. The epicardium of the heart was phenotypically and functionally characterised using a range of techniques. Upon alteration of haemodynamics, the epicardium exhibited abnormal morphology at HH29, even though migration of epicardial cells along the surface of the heart was found to be normal between HH24 and HH28. The abnormal epicardial phenotype was exacerbated at HH35 with severe changes in the structure of the extracellular matrix (ECM). A number of genes tied to ECM production were also differentially expressed in HH29 OFT‐banded hearts, including DDR2 and collagen XII. At HH35, the differential expression of these genes was even greater with additional downregulation of collagen I and TCF21. In this study, the epicardium was found to be severely impacted by altered haemodynamics upon OFT banding. The increased volume of the epicardium at HH29, upon OFT‐banding, and the expression changes of ECM markers were the first indicative signs of aberrations in epicardial architecture; by HH35, the phenotype had progressed. The decrease in epicardial thickness at HH35 suggests an increase in tension, with a force acting perpendicular to the surface of the epicardium. Although the developing epicardium and the blood flowing through the heart are separated by the endocardium and myocardium, the data presented here demonstrate that altering the blood flow affects the structure and molecular expression of the epicardial layer. Due to the intrinsic role the epicardium in cardiogenesis, defects in epicardial formation could have a role in the formation of a wide range of congenital heart defects.
Is Self‐Compassion Selfish? The Development of Self‐Compassion, Empathy, and Prosocial Behavior in Adolescence
Authors: Marshall Sarah L. , Ciarrochi Joseph , Parker Philip D. , Sahdra Baljinder K.
Published: March 2019

Both self‐compassion and empathy have been theorized to promote prosociality in youth, but there is little longitudinal data examining this possibility. We assessed self‐compassion, empathy, and peer‐rated prosociality yearly, in a cohort of 2,078 youth across 17 schools (M age at T1 = 14.65 years; 49.2% female), as they progressed from Grade 9–12. We utilized multi‐level modeling to predict prosocial behavior, nested within students, classes, and schools. We found that self‐compassion and empathy uniquely predicted peer‐rated prosocial behavior. However, only empathy predicted increases in prosocial behavior across time. While self‐compassion is not selfish, it does not appear to facilitate the development of kindness toward adolescent peers. Self‐compassion may help to buffer against possible negative effects of empathic distress.
Molecular dialogue between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and the nonhost plant Arabidopsis thaliana switches from initial detection to antagonism
Authors: Fernández Iván , Cosme Marco , Stringlis Ioannis A. , Yu Ke , de Jonge Ronnie , van Wees SaskiaC.M. , Pozo Maria J. , Pieterse Corné M. J. , van der Heijden Marcel G. A.
Published: March 2019

Approximately 29% of all vascular plant species are unable to establish an arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis. Despite this, AM fungi (Rhizophagus spp.) are enriched in the root microbiome of the nonhost Arabidopsis thaliana, and Arabidopsis roots become colonized when AM networks nurtured by host plants are available.

Here, we investigated the nonhost–AM fungus interaction by analyzing transcriptional changes in Rhizophagus, Arabidopsis and the host plant Medicago truncatula while growing in the same mycorrhizal network.

In early interaction stages, Rhizophagus activated the Arabidopsis strigolactone biosynthesis genes CCD7 and CCD8, suggesting that detection of AM fungi is not completely impaired. However, in colonized Arabidopsis roots, fungal nutrient transporter genes GintPT, GintAMT2, GintMST2 and GintMST4, essential for AM symbiosis, were not activated. RNA‐seq transcriptome analysis pointed to activation of costly defenses in colonized Arabidopsis roots. Moreover, Rhizophagus colonization caused a 50% reduction in shoot biomass, but also led to enhanced systemic immunity against Botrytis cinerea.

This suggests that early signaling between AM fungi and Arabidopsis is not completely impaired and that incompatibility appears at later interaction stages. Moreover, Rhizophagus‐mediated defenses coincide with reduced Arabidopsis growth, but also with systemic disease resistance, highlighting the multifunctional role of AM fungi in host and nonhost interactions.
Evolutionary epidemiology predicts the emergence of glyphosate resistance in a major agricultural weed
Authors: Comont David , Hicks Helen , Crook Laura , Hull Richard , Cocciantelli Elise , Hadfield Jarrod , Childs Dylan , Freckleton Robert , Neve Paul
Published: March 2019

The evolution of resistance to herbicides is a striking example of rapid, human‐directed adaptation with major consequences for food production. Most studies of herbicide resistance are performed reactively and focus on post hoc determination of resistance mechanisms following the evolution of field resistance. If the evolution of resistance can be anticipated, however, pro‐active management to slow or prevent resistance traits evolving can be advocated.

We report a national‐scale study that combines population monitoring, glyphosate sensitivity assays, quantitative genetics and epidemiological analyses to pro‐actively identify the prerequisites for adaptive evolution (directional selection and heritable genetic variation) to the world's most widely used herbicide (glyphosate) in a major, economically damaging weed species, Alopecurus myosuroides.

Results highlighted pronounced, heritable variability in glyphosate sensitivity amongst UK A. myosuroides populations. We demonstrated a direct epidemiological link between historical glyphosate selection and current population‐level sensitivity, and show that current field populations respond to further glyphosate selection.

This study provides a novel, pro‐active assessment of adaptive potential for herbicide resistance, and provides compelling evidence of directional selection for glyphosate insensitivity in advance of reports of field resistance. The epidemiological approach developed can provide a basis for further pro‐active study of resistance evolution across pesticide resistance disciplines.
Comparison of electrogram waveforms between a multielectrode mapping catheter and a linear ablation catheter
Authors: Masuda Masaharu , Asai Mitsutoshi , Iida Osamu , Okamoto Shin , Ishihara Takayuki , Nanto Kiyonori , Kanda Takashi , Tsujimura Takuya , Matsuda Yasuhiro , Okuno Shota , Tsuji Aki , Mano Toshiaki
Published: March 2019

Background

Smaller low‐voltage areas (LVAs) obtained by multielectrode catheters were reported than those by linear ablation catheters. However, the underlying electrogram difference has not been elucidated. This study aimed to compare the two mapping catheters’ measurements of electrogram waveforms and LVAs.

Methods

This prospective observational study included 17 consecutive patients undergoing ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation. Following pulmonary vein isolation, voltage mapping during sinus rhythm was performed once using the ablation catheter, and once using the multielectrode catheter. Approximately 20 pairs of mapping points at approximately the same position between the two voltage maps were manually selected evenly throughout the left atrium.

Results

Voltage mapping with the multielectrode catheter demonstrated smaller LVAs, defined as <0.50 mV (5.9 [3.3, 11.0] vs 9.7 [6.6, 16.9] cm2) than those mapped with the ablation catheter. The two mapping catheters’ voltage amplitudes of all pairs of mapping points correlated well (r = 0.81, P < 0.0001) overall, but they did not correlate within diseased areas (either voltage <0.50 mV). The voltage amplitude difference between the two catheters ([VolMulti − VolAbl]/VolAbl × 100) was greater in the diseased areas (37.4% [−9.8%, 147%]) than in the healthy areas (both voltages ≥0.50 mV, 26.2% [−13.0%, 92.8%], P = 0.014). The electrogram waveform of the multiple electrode catheter displayed a higher voltage amplitude, shorter duration, greater number of peaks, and lower dull peak ratio (number of dull peaks/total peaks) than that of the ablation catheter.

Conclusion

The multielectrode catheter produced smaller LVA measurements with sharper and higher voltage electrograms compared to the ablation catheter, specifically in diseased areas.
From Paper to Digitalized Body Map: A Reliability Study of the Pain Area
Authors: Caseiro Marília , Woznowski‐Vu Arthur , De Oliveira Anamaria S. , Reis Felipe J. J. , Wideman Timothy H.
Published: March 2019

Background

Computerized methods to analyze pain drawings (PDs) have been developed and may aid to measure the pain area more precisely.

Objective

The aim of this study was to verify whether examiners can reproduce the patient's PDs with acceptable reliability.

Methods

This was an intra‐rater and inter‐rater reliability study. The protocol consisted of 4 steps: (1) scanning of paper PDs; (2) sharing the digitalized PD images between examiners; (3) reproducing the PD images in the sketching application; and (4) calculating the pain area in pixels and percentages. We calculated intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs; 2,1), the standard error of the measurement (SEM), and the smallest detectable difference (SDD).

Results

Reliability was tested using 31 PDs from 17 patients in our database (11 female [64.7%], mean age: 53.23 ± 11.57 years). Intra‐rater reliability varied from ICC (2,1) = 0.991 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.982 to 0.996; SEM = 3,432.45; SDD = 162.39 pixels; P < 0.001) to ICC (2,1) = 0.992 (95% CI = 0.978 to 0.997; SEM = 3,412.96; SDD = 161.93 pixels; P < 0.001). Inter‐rater reliability for the measurement between all examiners was considered excellent (ICC [2,1] = 0.976; 95% CI = 0.956 to 0.987; SEM =8,580.75; SDD = 256.76 pixels; P < 0.001), being higher between Examiners A and C (ICC [2,1] = 0.970; 95% CI = 0.936 to 0.986; SEM = 6,453.34; SDD = 222.67 pixels; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our results show that intra‐ and inter‐rater reliabilities were excellent when an examiner reproduced the paper PDs into digitalized PDs. This process gives clinicians and researchers the opportunity to analyze pain extent more precisely using a computerized method.
Topical corticosteroid phobia among caretakers of children with atopic dermatitis: A cross‐sectional study using TOPICOP in Japan
Authors: Saito‐Abe Mayako , Futamura Masaki , Yamamoto‐Hanada Kiwako , Yang Limin , Suzuki Kohta , Ohya Yukihiro
Published: March 2019

Background/Objectives

The TOPICOP scale is an easy‐to‐use scale for assessing topical corticosteroid (TCS) phobia in atopic dermatitis (AD) patients and their caretakers. TCS phobia is a common problem among AD patients and their caretakers. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between TCS phobia in caretakers of children with AD and the characteristics of patients using the TOPICOP scale.

Methods

Caretakers of AD patients who visited the allergy clinic at the National Center for Child Health and Development in Tokyo between February 2014 and May 2014 were recruited. Caretakers of patients in follow‐up had already attended an education session on treatment at the institution. All participants completed an anonymous questionnaire on the characteristics of the respondents and patients using the Patient‐Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM) and the Japanese version of TOPICOP.

Results

In total, 243 participants (88.9% female) completed the survey. The average TOPICOP score was 40.3 and the median POEM score was 4. The TOPICOP score was significantly higher for patients younger than 12 months old with moderate to very severe AD (POEM ≥ 8) whose caretaker had not attended an educational session (P < 0.01, respectively). There was no significant difference in the family history of AD, age, or gender of the respondents. In multivariable analysis, preattendance at an education session was the only significant factor accounting for a higher TOPICOP score (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Regardless of their background, caretakers of AD patients can be affected from TCS phobia. Attending an educational session might ease their anxiety.
Can dementia patients live in a community? A case of a patient in trouble with the law
Authors: Shoji Miwako , Takada Junko , Nakashima Fumiko , Meguro Kenichi
Published: March 2019

We experienced a case involving a 67‐year‐old man with Alzheimer's disease who exhibited criminal behaviour. Although his behaviour improved after admission to a long‐term care facility, he was not able to return to his home because he was suspected of theft. At 62 years of age, he developed slowly progressive memory loss and had difficulty managing money. He was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and began taking galantamine. He was placed in police custody after he had tried to take another person's fuel tank early one morning. However, he was not charged with theft because he did not remember his actions. Because it was difficult for his sister to constantly monitor him, he was admitted to a long‐term care facility. He displayed high emotional insecurity and continually asked when he could return home. His physical function was good, enabling him to perform various activities alone, but he experienced the delusion of theft during these activities. He appealed the decision prohibiting him from going home. However, the staff suggested that he would exhibit problematic behaviours at home, and it was decided that he should not live at home. After living at the long‐term care facility for 3 years, he died of acute cardiac infarction. When a person goes to jail for committing a crime, that person can return to society after completing a jail term. That was not the case with this man with Alzheimer's disease. As such, guidelines and standards to evaluate the criminal responsibility of dementia patients need to be established.
Global antimicrobial resistance: a complex and dire threat with few definite answers
Authors: Islam Shamim , Aldstadt Jared , Aga Diana
Published: March 2019

Alors que divers organismes internationaux ont récemment proposé des plans pour la création de systèmes de surveillance de la résistance antimicrobienne (RAM), la plupart des PRMF ne disposent pas des infrastructures et des ressources pour le faire efficacement. La RAM est donc un problème majeur d’équité en matière de santé, mais aussi un exemple de la connexion dans notre monde unique: les populations les plus à risque disposent des mécanismes de surveillance et de confinement les plus médiocres; dans le même temps, la migration mondiale, les voyages et le commerce nous rendent tous vulnérables. Les mesures que nous utilisons actuellement ne capturent pas de manière significative l'impact potentiel de la RAM aux niveaux sanitaire, économique et sociétal plus large. La surveillance mondiale de la RAM devrait inclure une surveillance étroite de l'utilisation d'antibiotiques chez les animaux, ainsi que les concentrations de divers produits chimiques libérés dans l'environnement. En fin de compte, les efforts coordonnés de divers scientifiques et parties prenantes, dans diverses disciplines et dans le monde, sont essentiels pour relever les défis pressants de la RAM mondiale croissante.
How do we … integrate pathogen reduced platelets into our hospital blood bank inventory?
Authors: Rutter Sara , Snyder Edward L.
Published: March 2019

For more than 50 years there has been an ongoing effort to combat transfusion‐transmitted infections and provide patients with the safest possible blood. This initiative has driven much of the research within the transfusion community. Initial methods included screening donors for travel histories to banned areas and for high‐risk behaviors, but pathogen‐specific assays performed at the collection and manufacturing sites also have become key factors in assuring blood safety. Many of these have focused on donor and laboratory‐based screening for transfusion‐transmitted diseases, as evidenced by the hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus screening in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. More recently, this effort has expanded to develop donor screening assays to identify other blood‐borne pathogens, such as Zika and West Nile viruses and Babesia. Bacterial contamination of units of platelets (PLTs), however, remains a significant concern. In recent years, the Food and Drug Administration has approved rapid tests to identify bacterially contaminated PLT units in the blood bank before transfusion. Other supplemental methods have been developed, however, that aim to inactivate blood‐borne pathogen(s) present in the blood product, rather than to rely on our ability to identify and interdict contaminated and infected components. Pathogen reduction technology, as this is referred to, provides a proactive way to further reduce the risk posed by transfusion‐transmitted infections.
Influence of blood storage age on immune and coagulation parameters in critically ill transfused patients
Authors: Norris Philip J. , Schechtman Ken , Inglis Heather C. , Adelman Avril , Heitman John W. , Vilardi Ryan , Shah Avani , Roubinian Nareg H. , Danesh Ali , Guiltinan Anne M. , Keating Sheila M. , Lacroix Jacques , Cohen Mitchell J. , Spinella Philip C.
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Several retrospective studies have suggested that transfusion with red blood cells (RBCs) stored for longer periods is associated with increased mortality. The Age of Blood Evaluation (ABLE) study randomized subjects to receive fresh vs. standard issue RBC units and showed no difference in the primary or secondary endpoints of mortality or change in multi‐organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) score.

METHODS

In this study a subset of 100 ABLE subjects were enrolled to measure coagulation and immune parameters. Samples were collected pre‐transfusion and on days 2, 6, 28, and 180 post‐transfusion. Levels of 16 coagulation parameters, regulatory and functional T cells, 25 cytokines, and 16 markers of extracellular vesicles (EVs) were determined.

RESULTS

Changes from baseline in levels of protein C, factor V, and EVs expressing phosphatidyl serine and CTLA‐4 (CD152) differed between recipients of fresh and standard storage age RBC units, with the vast majority of coagulation and EV markers and all cytokines tested showing no difference between study arms. Although most analytes showed no difference between subjects in the fresh and standard arms of the study, 6 coagulation parameters, 15 cytokines, and 7 EV parameters changed significantly in the period post‐transfusion.

DISCUSSION

Transfusion of fresh vs. standard issue RBC units does not result in substantial changes in coagulation or immune parameters, up to day 35 of RBC storage. Furthermore, significant changes in multiple coagulation and immune parameters are detectable post‐transfusion, though causality cannot be determined based on the current study.
Bacterial safety of blood components–a congress review of the ISBT transfusion‐transmitted infectious diseases working party, bacterial subgroup
Authors: Ramirez‐Arcos Sandra , McDonald Carl , Deol Parampal , Kreuger Aukje L. , Patel Nidhi , Pidcoke Heather , Prax Marcel , Seltsam Axel , Stassinopoulos Adonis ,   The ISBT Transfusion‐Transmitted Infectious Diseases Working Party Subgroup on Bacteria
Published: March 2019

The ISBT Working Party on Transfusion‐Transmitted Infectious Diseases, Bacterial Subgroup (TTID‐WP‐BS) held a meeting during the 2017 ISBT Congress covering topics on safety of platelet components (PC), which are highlighted in this review. The TTID‐WP‐BS along with the Paul Ehrlich Institute have pioneered the development of bacterial strain repositories for PC and red blood cells (RBC) to be used for the validation of detection and pathogen reduction (PR) technologies. Results of the development of the RBC repository strains indicated that six bacterial strains were selected for further testing in international studies, complementing the previous study developed for PC. The THERAFLEX UV‐Platelets PR technology has used the bacterial strain repository for PC to test the effectiveness of the system with data presented in this report. Other PR studies described herein include a report of inactivation of Serratia marcescens by the INTERCEPT Blood System for PC at the levels of the PR claim. Furthermore, a summary of current and future developments of the Mirasol PR system was presented with emphasis on PR in whole blood. Advances in PC screening for bacterial contamination were covered by a comparative study of the BacT/ALERT 3D and BacT/ALERT VIRTUO systems, demonstrating that the latter has a shorter time to detection. Finally, data on septic transfusion reactions involving PC produced in plasma and platelet additive solutions indicated different clinical outcomes and screening results. The topics covered during the TTID‐WP‐BS meeting generated insightful scientific discussions and advanced knowledge, one of the most relevant activities of the Bacterial Subgroup.
Performance and microbiological safety testing after multiple use cycles and hydrogen peroxide sterilization of a 5‐mm vessel‐sealing device
Authors: Valenzano D. , Hayes G. , Gludish D. , Weese S.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To evaluate the functional and microbiological safety of a single‐use laparoscopic vessel‐sealing device in a multiuse setting.

Study design

Ex vivo study.

Sample population

Twelve 5‐mm LigaSure Maryland jaw devices.

Methods

Handsets underwent repeated test cycles until failure. The handset packaging was opened, and handsets were agitated in phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS). The PBS was removed, centrifuged, and submitted for culture. Canine ovariectomy was simulated on cadaveric tissue, after which vascular seal quality was evaluated by pressure testing of sealed porcine carotid arteries. The handsets were cleaned and sterilized with hydrogen peroxide gas and repackaged.

Results

Mean ± SD cycles to failure was 7.7 ± 2.8, with a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 12 use cycles achieved. Eleven of the 12 handsets failed by failure of handset activation after depression of the activation trigger. Only 1 handset failed to hold an adequate vascular seal under 300 mm Hg of pressure. No handset exhibited positive bacterial culture at any cycle.

Conclusion

The sterilization method used in this study resulted in an excellent microbiological safety profile. Most of the handsets failed by activation button failure.

Clinical significance

Under the conditions of this study, hydrogen peroxide sterilization achieved microbiological safety. Handsets can successfully be reused until activation button failure without negative effects on the vascular seal or increased risk of infection to the patient.
Partial arytenoidectomy in 14 standing horses (2013–2017)
Authors: Gray Sarah M. , Gutierrez‐Nibeyro Santiago D. , Secor Erica J.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To report our experience with partial arytenoidectomy in sedated standing horses.

Study design

Retrospective study.

Animals

Fourteen client‐owned adult horses.

Methods

The medical records (2013–2017) of horses treated with unilateral partial arytenoidectomy while standing and sedated were reviewed. Demographics, endoscopic findings, previous treatments, and outcome after surgery were investigated and recorded.

Results

Thirteen horses had unilateral left‐sided recurrent laryngeal neuropathy (RLN) and 1 horse had bilateral RLN. Five horses had a previous failed prosthetic laryngoplasty. Left‐sided partial arytenoidectomy without mucosal closure was successfully completed in all horses under sedation and local anesthesia. Report of long‐term outcome was obtained via telephone conversations for 12 horses, of which 9 also had an endoscopic reevaluation performed; 3 horses had granulomas at the surgical site, of which 2 eventually required a permanent tracheostomy. Nine horses returned to athletic use without respiratory noise, 2 horses returned to athletic use with noise during exercise that was reduced compared with preoperative levels, and 1 horse continued to be used as a broodmare.

Conclusion

Partial arytenoidectomy in standing horses was achieved with adequate sedation and local anesthesia.

Clinical significance

Partial arytenoidectomy on standing sedated horses could be considered as an alternative to eliminate the risks associated with general anesthesia.
Return to racing after surgical management of third carpal bone slab fractures in thoroughbred and standardbred racehorses
Authors: Doering Alyssa K. , Reesink Heidi L. , Luedke Lauren K. , Moore Christina , Nixon Alan J. , Fortier Lisa A. , Ducharme Norm G. , Ross Michael W. , Levine David G. , Richardson Dean W. , Stefanovski Darko , Ortved Kyla F.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To determine the prognosis for racing of horses surgically treated for slab fractures of the third carpal bone (C3).

Study design

Retrospective case study.

Animals

Horses (n = 125) surgically treated for C3 slab fractures.

Methods

Medical records of horses surgically treated for dorsal or sagittal C3 fractures were reviewed for age, sex, breed, limb, fracture type, degree of cartilage damage, and surgical treatment. Radiographs were evaluated to determine fracture depth, width, and displacement. Osteophytes, C3 lysis, and fragmentation were scored. Racing performance was obtained from online databases. Univariable and multivariable analyses were used to determine associations between independent variables and outcomes.

Results

Fifty‐four (43%) horses raced postoperatively. Among thoroughbreds, 35% (30/86) with dorsal fractures and 63% (17/27) with sagittal fractures raced postoperatively. Among standardbreds, 77% (10/13) with dorsal fractures and 0% (0/2) with sagittal fractures raced postoperatively. Fracture displacement, C3 lysis, and cartilage damage affected the likelihood of racing postoperatively. Placement of 3.5‐mm screws vs 4.5‐mm screws and the placement of fewer screws were associated with improved likelihood of racing.

Conclusion

The prognosis for postoperative racing of thoroughbreds with dorsal C3 fractures was less favorable than that previously reported. Concurrent joint pathology, such as cartilage damage at time of surgery, affected the ability of the horse to race postoperatively.

Clinical significance

Although internal fixation of C3 slab fractures is required to restore joint congruity, return to racing should be expected in only 42% of thoroughbreds and 67% of standardbreds.
Revisiting the North American freshwater mussel genus Quadrula sensu lato (Bivalvia Unionidae): Phylogeny, taxonomy and species delineation
Authors: Lopes‐Lima Manuel , Burlakova Lyubov , Karatayev Alexander , Gomes‐dos‐Santos André , Zieritz Alexandra , Froufe Elsa , Bogan Arthur E.
Published: March 2019

Freshwater mussels (Bivalvia, Unionidae) have suffered strong declines over the last century. High morphological plasticity of Unionidae causes disturbances in their systematics and taxonomy, hampering conservation efforts. Species that have historically been placed under the North American genus Quadrula have suffered from numerous taxonomic and species delineation problems since its inception. Four genera are presently recognized within Quadrula sensu lato, that is, Cyclonaias, Quadrula, Theliderma and Tritogonia, but their phylogenetic basis remains incompletely tested. In the present study, we reconstructed several two‐marker (mtDNA cytochrome c oxidase subunit I—COI and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1—ND1) phylogenies with newly collected specimens and all previously available sequences covering most species within this group. We then delineated the species within the group using an integrative approach with the application of molecular statistical methods, morphometric (Fourier Shape) analyses and geographic distribution data. Four clades corresponding to these genera were consistently recovered in all phylogenies. To validate the generic status of these clades, molecular analyses were complemented with morphological, anatomical and ecological data compiled from the literature. Several revisions are here proposed to the current systematics and taxonomy of these genera, including the synonymization of Cyclonaias asperata under Cyclonaias kieneriana; the inclusion of Quadrula apiculata and Quadrula rumphiana under Quadrula quadrula; the placement of Quadrula nobilis under Tritogonia; and finally the separation of the Mobile River basin populations of Theliderma metanevra as a new species, that is, Theliderma johnsoni n. sp. The conservation implications of the proposed changes are then discussed.
NC-smooth algebroid thickenings for families of vector bundles and quiver representations
Authors: Dyer Ben , Polishchuk Alexander
Published: March 2019

In his work on deformation quantization of algebraic varieties Kontsevich introduced the notion ofalgebroidas a certain generalization of a sheaf of algebras. We construct algebroids which are given locally by NC-smooth thickenings in the sense of Kapranov, over two classes of smooth varieties: the bases of miniversal families of vector bundles on projective curves, and the bases of miniversal families of quiver representations.
Effect of Temperature Ratio on Jet Impingement Heat Transfer in Active Clearance Control Systems
Authors: Da Soghe Riccardo , Bianchini Cosimo , D’Errico Jacopo , Tarchi Lorenzo
Published: March 2019

Impinging jet arrays are typically used to cool several gas turbine parts. Some examples of such applications can be found in the internal cooling of high-pressure turbine airfoils or in the turbine blade tip clearances control of aero-engines. The effect of the wall-to-jets temperature ratio (TR) on heat transfer is generally neglected by the correlations available in the open literature. In the present contribution, the impact of the temperature ratio on the heat transfer for a real engine active clearance control system is analyzed by means of validated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) computations. At different jets Reynolds number and considering several impingement array arrangements, a wide range of target wall-to-jets temperature ratio is accounted for. Computational results prove that both local and averaged Nusselt numbers reduce with increasing. An in-depth analysis of the numerical data shows that the last mentioned evidence is motivated by both the heat transfer incurring between the spent coolant flow and the fresh jets and the variation of gas properties with temperature through the boundary layer. A scaling procedure, based on the TR power law, was proposed to estimate the Nusselt number at different wall temperature levels necessary to correct available open-literature correlations, typically developed with small temperature differences, for real engine applications.
Simulations of the effect of unlinked cochlear-implant automatic gain control and head movement on interaural level differences
Authors: Archer-Boyd Alan W. , Carlyon Robert P.
Published: March 2019

This study simulated the effect of unlinked automatic gain control (AGC) and head movement on the output levels and resulting inter-aural level differences (ILDs) produced by bilateral cochlear implant (CI) processors. The angular extent and velocity of the head movements were varied in order to observe the interaction between unlinked AGC and head movement. Static, broadband input ILDs were greatly reduced by the high-ratio, slow-time-constant AGC used. The size of head-movement-induced dynamic ILDs depended more on the velocity and angular extent of the head movement than on the angular position of the source. The profiles of the dynamic, broadband output ILDs were very different from the dynamic, broadband input ILD profiles. Short-duration, high-velocity head movements resulted in dynamic output ILDs that continued to change after head movement had stopped. Analysis of narrowband, single-channel ILDs showed that static output ILDs were reduced across all frequencies, producing low-frequency ILDs of the opposite sign to the high-frequency ILDs. During head movements, low- and high-frequency ILDs also changed with opposite sign. The results showed that the ILDs presented to bilateral CI listeners during head turns were highly distorted by the interaction of the bilateral, unlinked AGC and the level changes induced by head movement.
Swine-Origin H1 Influenza Viruses Isolated from Humans Exhibit Sustained Infectivity in an Aerosol State
Authors: Pulit-Penaloza Joanna A. , Belser Jessica A. , Tumpey Terrence M. , Maines Taronna R.
Published: March 2019

Each time a swine influenza virus transmits to a human, it provides an opportunity for the virus to acquire adaptations needed for sustained human-to-human transmission. Here, we use aerobiology techniques to test the stability of swine-origin H1 subtype viruses in aerosols and evaluate their infectivity in ferrets. Our results show that highly transmissible influenza viruses display enhanced stability in an aerosol state compared to viruses that do not transmit as efficiently. Similar to human-adapted strains, swine-origin influenza viruses are infectious in ferrets at low doses even after prolonged suspension in the air. These data underscore the risk of airborne swine-origin influenza viruses and support the need for continued surveillance and refinement of innovative laboratory methods to investigate mammalian exposure to inhaled pathogens. Determination of the molecular markers that affect the longevity of airborne influenza viruses will improve our ability to quickly identify emerging strains that present the greatest threat to public health.
Enterobactin-Specific Antibodies Induced by a Novel Enterobactin Conjugate Vaccine
Authors: Wang Huiwen , Zeng Ximin , Mo Yiming , He Bin , Lin Hening , Lin Jun
Published: March 2019

Ent-mediated high-affinity iron acquisition is a universal and critical contributor for Gram-negative pathogens to survive and infect hosts. Published information has supported an innovative immune intervention strategy that directly targets Ent to starve pathogens by limiting the availability of iron to be utilized. Compared to a recently published Ent conjugate, there are three advantages of the vaccine described in this study: ease of preparation, induction of high titer of anti-Ent IgG, and the ability of Ent-specific antibodies to bind various Ent derivatives, including the salmochelins that help enteric pathogens evade sequestration of siderophores by host lipocalins. In addition, the Ent-specific antibodies were demonstrated to function similarly to lipocalin to interfere with the Ent-dependent growth of
Campylobacter
and
E. coli
under iron-restricted conditions. This study has significant potential for broader applications to prevent and control various Gram-negative infections in humans and animals.
The Yin and Yang of
Streptococcus
Lung Infections in Cystic Fibrosis: a Model for Studying Polymicrobial Interactions
Authors: Scott Jessie E. , O’Toole George A.
Published: March 2019

The streptococci are increasingly recognized as a core component of the cystic fibrosis (CF) lung microbiome, yet the role that they play in CF lung disease is unclear. The presence of the
Streptococcus milleri
group (SMG; also known as the anginosus group streptococci [AGS]) correlates with exacerbation when these microbes are the predominant species in the lung.
Identification of a Formate-Dependent Uric Acid Degradation Pathway in
Escherichia coli
Authors: Iwadate Yumi , Kato Jun-ichi
Published: March 2019

The metabolic pathway of uric acid degradation to date has been elucidated only in aerobic environments and is not understood in anaerobic and microaerobic environments. In the current study, we showed that
Escherichia coli
, a facultative anaerobic organism, uses uric acid as a sole source of nitrogen under anaerobic and microaerobic conditions. We also showed that formate, formate dehydrogenase H, and either AegA or YgfT are involved in uric acid degradation. We propose that formate may act as an electron donor for a uric acid-degrading enzyme in this bacterium.
Modulation of Sialic Acid Dependence Influences the Central Nervous System Transduction Profile of Adeno-associated Viruses
Authors: Albright Blake H. , Simon Katherine E. , Pillai Minakshi , Devlin Garth W. , Asokan Aravind
Published: March 2019

Understanding how viruses cross the blood-brain barrier can provide insight into new approaches to block infection by pathogens or the ability to exploit these pathways for designing new recombinant viral vectors for gene therapy. In this regard, modulation of virus-carbohydrate interactions by mutating the virion shell can influence the ability of recombinant viruses to cross the vascular barrier, enter the brain, and enable efficient gene transfer to neurons.
Atovaquone Inhibits Arbovirus Replication through the Depletion of Intracellular Nucleotides
Authors: Cifuentes Kottkamp Angelica , De Jesus Elfie , Grande Rebecca , Brown Julia A. , Jacobs Adam R. , Lim Jean K. , Stapleford Kenneth A.
Published: March 2019

The ability to protect vulnerable populations such as pregnant women and children from Zika virus and other arbovirus infections is essential to preventing the devastating complications induced by these viruses. One class of antiviral therapies may lie in known pregnancy-acceptable drugs that have the potential to mitigate arbovirus infections and disease, yet this has not been explored in detail. In this study, we show that the common antiparasitic drug atovaquone inhibits arbovirus replication through intracellular nucleotide depletion and can impair ZIKV infection in an
ex vivo
human placental explant model. Our study provides a novel function for atovaquone and highlights that the rediscovery of pregnancy-acceptable drugs with potential antiviral effects can be the key to better addressing the immediate need for treating viral infections and preventing potential birth complications and future disease.
Sequence Determinants in Gammaretroviral Env Cytoplasmic Tails Dictate Virus-Specific Pseudotyping Compatibility
Authors: Song Yul Eum , Olinger Grace Y. , Janaka Sanath Kumar , Johnson Marc C.
Published: March 2019

Viruses utilize viral glycoproteins to efficiently enter target cells during infection. How viruses acquire viral glycoproteins has been studied to understand the pathogenesis of viruses and develop safer and more efficient viral vectors for gene therapies. The CTs of viral glycoproteins have been shown to regulate various stages of glycoprotein biogenesis, but a gap still remains in understanding the molecular mechanism of glycoprotein acquisition and functionality regarding the CT. Here, we studied the mechanism of how specific mutations in the CT of a gammaretroviral envelope glycoprotein distinctly affect infectivity of two different viruses. Different mutations caused failure of glycoproteins to function in a virus-specific manner due to distinct fusion defects, suggesting that there are virus-specific characteristics affecting glycoprotein functionality.
Helicobacter pylori
VacA Targets Myeloid Cells in the Gastric Lamina Propria To Promote Peripherally Induced Regulatory T-Cell Differentiation and Persistent Infection
Authors: Altobelli Aleksandra , Bauer Michael , Velez Karelia , Cover Timothy L. , Müller Anne
Published: March 2019

Helicobacter pylori
has coexisted with humans for at least 60.000 years and has evolved persistence strategies that allow it to evade host immunity and colonize its host for life. The VacA protein is expressed by all
H. pylori
strains and is required for high-level persistent infection in experimental mouse models. Here, we show that VacA targets myeloid cells in the gastric mucosa to create a tolerogenic environment that facilitates regulatory T-cell differentiation, while suppressing effector T-cell priming and functionality. Tregs that are induced in the periphery during
H. pylori
infection can be found not only in the stomach but also in the lungs of infected mice, where they are likely to affect immune responses to allergens.
AP-2-Dependent Endocytic Recycling of the Chitin Synthase Chs3 Regulates Polarized Growth in Candida albicans
Authors: Knafler H. C. , Smaczynska-de Rooij I. I. , Walker L. A. , Lee K. K. , Gow N. A. R. , Ayscough K. R.
Published: March 2019

Candida albicans
is a human commensal yeast that can cause significant morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised individuals. Within humans,
C. albicans
can adopt different morphologies as yeast or filamentous hyphae and can occupy different niches with distinct temperatures, pHs, CO
2
levels, and nutrient availability. Both morphological switching and growth in different environments require cell surface remodelling, which involves both the addition of newly synthesized proteins as well as the removal of other proteins. In our study, we demonstrate the importance of an adaptor complex AP-2 in internalizing and recycling a specific cell surface enzyme to maintain effective polarized hyphal growth. Defects in formation of the complex or in its ability to interact directly with cargo inhibit enzyme uptake and lead to defective cell walls and aberrant hyphal morphology. Our data indicate that the AP-2 adaptor plays a central role in regulating cell surface composition in
Candida
.
Genomic Characterization and Virulence Potential of TwoFusarium oxysporumIsolates Cultured from the International Space Station
Authors: Urbaniak Camilla , van Dam Peter , Zaborin Alexander , Zaborina Olga , Gilbert Jack A. , Torok Tamas , Wang Clay C. C. , Venkateswaran Kasthuri
Published: March 2019

This is the first study to isolate and characterizeF. oxysporumisolates from a built environment, as well as one that has been exposed to space. The characterization and analysis of these two genomes may have important implications for the medical, agricultural, and food industries as well as for the health of the crew who coinhabit the ISS with these strains.
Coaching implications of the lateral batting backlift technique in men’s cricket: a discussion and food for thought
Authors: Noorbhai Habib , Noakes Timothy
Published: March 2019

Cricket coaching manuals published after 2009 accept as a norm for batsmen to lift the bat in the direction of the slips. A mixed-methods study conducted among 161 coaches around the world showed that most cricket coaches (83%) coach the straight batting backlift technique (SBBT) as opposed to the lateral batting backlift technique (LBBT) at various proficiency levels of the game. The LBBT (more beneficial for cricket batsmen) is one in which the bat is lifted laterally in the direction of second slip or gully. Using this technique, the face of the bat faces towards point or the off-side. In contrast, the backlift in which the bat is lifted towards the stumps or first slip and the face of the bat points towards the wicket-keeper or the ground, is known as the SBBT. This paper attempts to provide implications for coaching the LBBT and understanding some important aspects of cricket batsmanship in men’s cricket.
Spin averaged mass spectrum of heavy quarkonium via asymptotic iteration method
Authors: Mutuk Halil
Published: March 2019

In this paper we solved Schrödinger equation with Song–Lin potential by using asymptotic iteration method (AIM). We obtained spin-averaged energy levels and wave functions of charmonium and bottomonium via AIM. Obtained results agree well with available experimental data and other theoretical studies.