bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fundamental properties of Kepler and CoRoT targets – IV. Masses and radii from frequencies of minimum Δν and their implications
Authors: Yıldız M , Çelik Orhan Z , Kayhan C
Published: August 2019

Recently, by analysing the oscillation frequencies of 90 stars, Yıldız, Çelik Orhan & Kayhan have shown that the reference frequencies (νmin0, νmin1, and νmin2) derived from glitches due to He ii ionization zone have very strong diagnostic potential for the determination of their effective temperatures. In this study, we continue to analyse the same stars and compute their mass, radius, and age from different scaling relations including relations based on νmin0, νmin1, and νmin2. For most of the stars, the masses computed using νmin0 and νmin1 are very close to each other. For 38 stars, the difference between these masses is less than 0.024 M$\odot$. The radii of these stars from νmin0 and νmin1 are even closer, with differences of less than 0.007 R$\odot$. These stars may be the most well known solar-like oscillating stars and deserve to be studied in detail. The asteroseismic expressions we derive for mass and radius show slight dependence on metallicity. We therefore develop a new method for computing initial metallicity from this surface metallicity by taking into account the effect of microscopic diffusion. The time dependence of initial metallicity shows some very interesting features that may be important for our understanding of chemical enrichment of Galactic Disc. According to our findings, every epoch of the disc has its own lowest and highest values for metallicity. It seems that rotational velocity is inversely proportional to 1/2 power of age as given by the Skumanich relation.
Optimizing the Power to Identify the Genetic Basis of Complex Traits with Evolve and Resequence Studies
Authors: Vlachos Christos , Kofler Robert
Published: August 2019

Evolve and resequence (E&R) studies are frequently used to dissect the genetic basis of quantitative traits. By subjecting a population to truncating selection for several generations and estimating the allele frequency differences between selected and nonselected populations using next-generation sequencing (NGS), the loci contributing to the selected trait may be identified. The role of different parameters, such as, the population size or the number of replicate populations has been examined in previous works. However, the influence of the selection regime, that is the strength of truncating selection during the experiment, remains little explored. Using whole genome, individual based forward simulations of E&R studies, we found that the power to identify the causative alleles may be maximized by gradually increasing the strength of truncating selection during the experiment. Notably, such an optimal selection regime comes at no or little additional cost in terms of sequencing effort and experimental time. Interestingly, we also found that a selection regime which optimizes the power to identify the causative loci is not necessarily identical to a regime that maximizes the phenotypic response. Finally, our simulations suggest that an E&R study with an optimized selection regime may have a higher power to identify the genetic basis of quantitative traits than a genome-wide association study, highlighting that E&R is a powerful approach for finding the loci underlying complex traits.
Sequenceserver: A Modern Graphical User Interface for Custom BLAST Databases
Authors: Priyam Anurag , Woodcroft Ben J , Rai Vivek , Moghul Ismail , Munagala Alekhya , Ter Filip , Chowdhary Hiten , Pieniak Iwo , Maynard Lawrence J , Gibbins Mark Anthony , Moon HongKee , Davis-Richardson Austin , Uludag Mahmut , Watson-Haigh Nathan S , Challis Richard , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Favreau Emeline , Gómez Esteban A , Pluskal Tomás , Leonard Guy , Rumpf Wolfgang , Wurm Yannick
Published: August 2019

Comparing newly obtained and previously known nucleotide and amino-acid sequences underpins modern biological research. BLAST is a well-established tool for such comparisons but is challenging to use on new data sets. We combined a user-centric design philosophy with sustainable software development approaches to create Sequenceserver, a tool for running BLAST and visually inspecting BLAST results for biological interpretation. Sequenceserver uses simple algorithms to prevent potential analysis errors and provides flexible text-based and visual outputs to support researcher productivity. Our software can be rapidly installed for use by individuals or on shared servers.
SET8 prevents excessive DNA methylation by methylation-mediated degradation of UHRF1 and DNMT1
Authors: Zhang Huifang , Gao Qinqin , Tan Shuo , You Jia , Lyu Cong , Zhang Yunpeng , Han Mengmeng , Chen Zhaosu , Li Jialun , Wang Hailin , Liao Lujian , Qin Jun , Li Jiwen , Wong Jiemin
Published: August 2019

Faithful inheritance of DNA methylation across cell division requires DNMT1 and its accessory factor UHRF1. However, how this axis is regulated to ensure DNA methylation homeostasis remains poorly understood. Here we show that SET8, a cell-cycle-regulated protein methyltransferase, controls protein stability of both UHRF1 and DNMT1 through methylation-mediated, ubiquitin-dependent degradation and consequently prevents excessive DNA methylation. SET8 methylates UHRF1 at lysine 385 and this modification leads to ubiquitination and degradation of UHRF1. In contrast, LSD1 stabilizes both UHRF1 and DNMT1 by demethylation. Importantly, SET8 and LSD1 oppositely regulate global DNA methylation and do so most likely through regulating the level of UHRF1 than DNMT1. Finally, we show that UHRF1 downregulation in G2/M by SET8 has a role in suppressing DNMT1-mediated methylation on post-replicated DNA. Altogether, our study reveals a novel role of SET8 in promoting DNA methylation homeostasis and identifies UHRF1 as the hub for tuning DNA methylation through dynamic protein methylation.
Low daily MEWS scores as predictors of low-risk hospitalized patients
Authors: Mizrahi J , Kott J , Taub E , Goolsarran N
Published: August 2019

Background

The Modified Early Warning System (MEWS) is a well-validated tool used by hospitals to identify patients at high risk for an adverse event to occur. However, there has been little evaluation into whether a low MEWS score can be predictive of patients with a low likelihood of an adverse event.

Aim

The present study aims to evaluate the MEWS score as a method of identifying patients at low risk for adverse events.

Design

Retrospective cohort study of 5676 patient days and analysis of associated MEWS scores, medical comorbidities and adverse events. The primary outcome was the association of average daily MEWS scores in those who had an adverse event compared with those who did not.

Results

Those with an average MEWS score of >2 were over 9 times more likely to have an adverse event compared with those with an average MEWS score of 1–2, and over 15 times more likely to have an adverse event compared to those with an average MEWS score of <1.

Conclusions

Our study shows that those with average daily MEWS scores <2 are at a significantly lower likelihood of having an adverse event compared with a score of >2, deeming them ‘low-risk patients’. Formal recognition of such patients can have major implications in a hospital setting, including more efficient resource allocation in hospitals and better patient satisfaction and safety by adjusting patient monitoring according to their individual risk profile.
Mathematics instructors’ awareness of accessibility barriers for disabled students
Authors: Cliffe Emma , Mac an Bhaird Ciarán , Ní Fhloinn Eabhnat , Trott Clare
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we discuss the results of a staff survey on accessibility barriers to participation and success for disabled students in higher education in the UK and Ireland. We focus on the range and complexity of student difficulties encountered by staff involved either in the lecturing of mathematics or the provision of Mathematics Learning Support. We report on the range of supports available to both staff and students in these situations and their varying levels of awareness and implementation of these supports. We close with a brief overview of how we intend to use the results of this survey to both increase awareness of existing appropriate supports and develop additional services to improve student accessibility.
Nurses’ Education, Confidence, and Competence in Appropriate Dressing Choice
Authors: Blackburn Joanna , Ousey Karen , Stephenson John
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Wound assessment and treatment are essential aspects of nursing care. Dressing-associated complications can delay wound healing, causing unnecessary patient distress. Despite evidence suggesting that dressings should be changed infrequently, there still remains a tendency for healthcare professionals to remove dressings regularly, increasing the risk of complications and the cost of wound care.

OBJECTIVE

To understand the experiences and current practices of tissue viability nurses (TVNs) involved in wound care and dressing wear time in the acute and community settings.

METHODS

This quality improvement project used a mixed-methods design. A retrospective audit was undertaken to establish nurse rationale for the renewal of foam dressings on patients with acute/chronic wounds. Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with registered TVNs (n = 12) working in acute and community care settings and focused on their experiences with all dressing types.

MAIN RESULTS

The analysis identified several key themes, including Training and Education (including the subthemes of TVN Experience and TVN Training), Knowledge and Information, Lack of Confidence (including the subthemes Reasons for Dressing Change and Ritualistic Practice), and Dressing Choice.

CONCLUSIONS

Fundamental changes in staff attitudes and beliefs about dressing wear time are essential to optimizing dressing performance and increasing patient quality of care. Flexible community services that are reflective of the needs of the service are central to changing practice and increasing dressing wear time in these settings.
Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate, Oral Contraceptive, Intrauterine Device Use, and Fracture Risk
Authors: Raine-Bennett Tina , Chandra Malini , Armstrong Mary Anne , Alexeeff Stacey , Lo Joan C.
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVE:

To assess fracture risk among women with depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), oral contraceptive pill (OCP), and intrauterine device (IUD) use.

METHODS:

A retrospective cohort study of 308,876 women age 12–45 years who initiated DMPA, combined or progestin-only OCPs, and copper and levonorgestrel IUDs from 2005 to 2015. Cumulative DMPA, OCP, and IUD use was assessed. Time since last DMPA injection was quantified as recent (within 2 years) and past (more than 2 years ago). Crude fracture rate was estimated using a Poisson distribution. Unadjusted and adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated using cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS:

Thirteen percent of women used DMPA, 78.6% combined OCPs, 17.4% progestin-only OCPs, and 26.2% IUDs; 29.5% used more than one method. There were 7,659 fractures in 1,391,251 person-years (5.5/1,000 person-years [95% CI 5.4–5.6]). The fracture rate for women with any DMPA use was 6.6 (95% CI 6.1–7.2) and 7.8 (95% CI 6.0–10.0) for women with recent use and more than 2 years of cumulative use. Women who had recent use with 2 years or less, or more than 2 years of cumulative use had higher fracture risk compared with women who had no DMPA use and used other methods (adjusted HR 1.15 [95% CI 1.01–1.31] and 1.42 [95% CI 1.10–1.83], respectively). Fracture risk was not increased in women with past DMPA use. Women who had more than 2 years cumulative use of combined OCPs and women with any progestin-only OCP use had lower fracture risk compared with women who did not use OCPs and used other methods (adjusted HR 0.85 [95% CI 0.76–0.96] and 0.88 [95% CI 0.80–0.97], respectively).

CONCLUSION:

Use of DMPA beyond 2 years should not be considered an absolute contraindication. Although DMPA use was associated with slightly increased fracture risk compared with other methods, the absolute risk of fracture was small and was not observed after discontinuation.
Sensitivity and Specificity of B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in Diagnosing Heart Failure in Pregnancy
Authors: Malhamé Isabelle , Hurlburt Heather , Larson Lucia , Poppas Athena , Nau Christopher , Bourjeily Ghada , Mehta Niharika
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the performance of B-type natriuretic peptide as a diagnostic tool for heart failure in pregnant or postpartum women with singleton gestations.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective study of diagnostic accuracy. We identified pregnant and postpartum women with B-type natriuretic peptide and echocardiography performed at an obstetric teaching hospital from 2007 to 2018. Women with known cardiac disease or multiple gestation were excluded. A panel of two cardiovascular disease experts, blinded to B-type natriuretic peptide values, determined the diagnosis of heart failure by consensus. Their judgement was based on detailed clinical features and parameters at the time of presentation with suspected heart failure. Where consensus could not be reached, differences were adjudicated by a third expert. A receiver operating characteristic curve estimated the sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, and negative likelihood ratio of B-type natriuretic peptide at various thresholds.

RESULTS:

In total, 22 pregnant and 38 postpartum women were included in the cohort. Average age was 32±6.8 years. The most common clinical features at the time of presentation with suspected heart failure included preeclampsia (33/60, 55%), dyspnea (50/60, 83%), chest discomfort (34/60, 58%), and bilateral lower extremity edema (32/60, 53%). In total, 39 (65%) women had heart failure. The median B-type natriuretic peptide level was 326 pg/mL (interquartile range 200.5–390.5) in women with heart failure, as compared with 75.5 pg/mL (interquartile range 19–245) in women without heart failure (P<.01). The estimated optimal B-type natriuretic peptide cutoff was 111 (95% CI 78–291) pg/mL. Using this threshold, 45 (75%) women had an elevated B-type natriuretic peptide, which yielded a 95% sensitivity (95% CI 83–99), 62% specificity (95% CI 38–82), a positive likelihood ratio of 2.5 (95% CI 1.4–4.3), and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.1 (95% CI 0.0–0.3) for heart failure.

CONCLUSIONS:

B-type natriuretic peptide is a useful clinical tool to evaluate pregnant and postpartum women with suspected heart failure.
Health Care Provider Adherence to Surgical Guidelines for Risk-Reducing Salpingo-Oophorectomy
Authors: Wilhite Annelise M. , Oestreich Makinna C. , Olson Megan , Bedell Sabrina M. , Westenberg Danielle , Bangdiwala Ananta , Ikramuddin Salman , Sanchez-Avila Monica , Madoff Robert D. , Khalifa Mahmoud A. , Erickson Britt K.
Published: August 2019

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate health care provider adherence to the surgical protocol endorsed by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists at the time of risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy and compare adherence between gynecologic oncologists and obstetrician–gynecologists (ob-gyns).

METHODS:

In this multicenter retrospective cohort study, women were included if they had a pathogenic BRCA mutation and underwent risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy between 2011 and 2017. Adherence was defined as completing all of the following: collection of washings, complete resection of the fallopian tube, and performing the Sectioning and Extensively Examining the Fimbriated End (SEE-FIM) pathologic protocol.

RESULTS:

Of 290 patients who met inclusion criteria, 160 patients were treated by 18 gynecologic oncologists and 130 patients by 75 ob-gyns. Surgery was performed at 10 different hospitals throughout a single metropolitan area. Demographic and clinical characteristics were similar between groups. Overall, 199 cases (69%) were adherent to the surgical protocol. Gynecologic oncologists were more than twice as likely to fully adhere to the full surgical protocol as ob-gyns (91% vs 41%, P<.01). Specifically, gynecologic oncologists were more likely to resect the entire tube (99% vs 95%, P=.03), to have followed the SEE-FIM protocol (98% vs 82%, P<.01), and collect washings (94% vs 49%, P<.01). Complication rates did not differ between groups. Occult neoplasia was diagnosed in 11 patients (3.8%). The incidence of occult neoplasia was 6.3% in gynecologic oncology patients and 0.8% in obstetrics and gynecology patients (P=.03).

CONCLUSION:

Despite clear surgical guidelines, only two thirds of all health care providers were fully adherent to guidelines. Gynecologic oncologists were more likely to follow surgical guidelines compared with general ob-gyns and more likely to diagnose occult neoplasia despite similar patient populations. Rates of risk-reducing surgery will likely continue to increase as genetic testing becomes more widespread, highlighting the importance of health care provider education for this procedure. Centralized care or referral to subspecialists for risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy may be warranted.
Practice Patterns in the Management of Primary Pterygium: A Survey Study
Authors: Graue-Hernandez Enrique O. , Córdoba Andrea , Jimenez-Corona Aida , Ramirez-Miranda Arturo , Navas Alejandro , Serna-Ojeda Juan C. , Mannis Mark J.
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

To characterize cornea specialists’ current practice preferences in the management of primary pterygium.

Methods:

A 25-item survey regarding indications for surgery, surgical technique, use of adjuvant therapy, type and duration of postoperative therapy, and treatment of early recurrences was designed and sent to members of the Cornea Society through the kera-net listserv.

Results:

In total, 199 cornea specialists completed the questionnaire. More than 90% considered that surgery should be performed when there is proximity of the pterygium to the visual axis, pain or redness, eye movement restriction, or induction of astigmatism. Cosmesis was considered as an indication by 41.7% of the participants. The most frequent technique for pterygium excision was complete resection including the base and a moderate quantity of Tenon capsule followed by autologous conjunctival or limbal-conjunctival graft. The preferred graft fixation method in this survey was fibrin glue (61.2%). Most respondents reported a recurrence rate of less than 5% and no use of adjuvant agents to prevent recurrence. When early recurrence did occur, the preferred agents were corticosteroids.

Conclusions:

This study reflects the preferences of cornea experts regarding primary pterygium treatment and may serve as a guide for the management of this pathology.
Outcomes of Extended Infusion Cefepime in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Beauchamp Lauren C. , Nichols Kristen R. , Knoderer Chad A.
Published: August 2019

Background

Extended infusions of cefepime optimize pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters and improve clinical outcomes in adults with gram-negative infections, but there are no similar studies in children. The objective of this study was to compare clinical outcomes in children receiving extended and traditional infusion cefepime.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients aged 31 days to 17 years receiving extended or traditional infusion cefepime for at least 48 hours for a susceptible gram-negative bacteremia at a tertiary care children's hospital. The primary outcome was a composite clinical outcome comprised of infection-related mortality within 14 days of antibiotic initiation, bacteremic relapse within 30 days of culture clearance, and treatment failure.

Results

Sixty-seven patients were included; 21 (31.3%) received extended infusion, and 46 (68.7%) received traditional infusion. Extended infusion patients were older and larger than traditional infusion patients with a median (interquartile range) age of 7 (0.8–11.5) years versus 0.5 (0.2–2) years (P = 0.05) and weight of 23.7 (8.2–44.2) kg versus 6.2 (2.4–13.1) kg (P < 0.05). The most common pathogens within the extended infusion group were Enterobacter cloacae (23.8%) and Klebsiella oxytoca (23.8%), whereas Escherichia coli was the most common within the traditional infusion group (28.2%). There was no difference in minimum inhibitory concentrations, as the most common minimum inhibitory concentrations were less than or equal to 1 μg/mL in both extended (95.2%) and traditional infusion (87.0%) (P = nonsignificant). The primary outcome occurred in 2 extended (9.5%) and 3 traditional infusion patients (6.5%) (P = nonsignificant).

Conclusions

Clinical outcomes were similar with extended and traditional infusion cefepime in this cohort of children with susceptible gram-negative bacteremia.
Relationship Between Nostril, Nasal Valve and Minimal Cross-Sectional Area in Functional Upper Airway
Authors: Fariña Rodrigo , González Andrea , Toledo Ximena , Villanueva Rodrigo , Martínez Benjamín , Pérez Hernán
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

To propose a three-dimensional cephalometric analysis of upper airway (UA) related to its functionality, defining normal reference values in healthy individuals and the relationship between nostril, nasal valve, and minimal cross-sectional area (MCS) in functional upper airway.

Materials and Methods:

The UAs of 20 Class I patients were analyzed with CBCT using Nemoceph 3D-OS and HOROS software, determining linear distances, volumes and cross-sectional areas, including MCS.

Results:

MCS was mostly located in the middle-upper oropharynx and high hypopharynx. MCS showed moderate correlation with the area of both nares (BNA) (r = 0.60, P = 0.004) and high correlation with the area of both internal nasal valves (BNV) (r = 0.66, P = 0.0016). BNA and BNV showed a moderate correlation (r = 0.445, P = 0.049). A total upper airway (TUA) and functional upper airway (FUA) volumes were established. TUA and FUA showed the strongest statistical correlation (r = 0.82, P = 0.00). A paired samples t test compared the measurement as absolute values of MCS with BNA (t = 0.781, P = 0.44), with BNV (t = −0.12, P = 0.90); and BNA with BNV (t = −0.76, P = 0.45), showed no significant differences.

Conclusions:

A functional cephalometric analysis of the UA with stable parameters in cervical spine and normal reference values has been proposed. BNA and BNV could be used as reference to establish the MCS compatible with respiratory health.
An Analysis of Association Between Nasal Bone Morphology and Sinonasal Anatomical Variations
Authors: Kuzucu Ihsan , Parlak Selcuk , Baklaci Deniz , Guler Ismail , Sakalli Cemal , Mendi Ahmet Bokebatur , Kum Rauf Oguzhan , Ozcan Muge
Published: August 2019

The goal of this study was to investigate the association between various sinonasal anatomical variations and the morphological features of lateral nasal bone, using paranasal computerized tomography (PNCT) sections. Two hundred and fifty patients who underwent a PNCT scan because of a prediagnosis of nasal septum deviation or sinusitis were included in the study. For each patient, presence of the following anatomical variations was determined on CT sections: length and thickness of nasal bone, thickness of intermediate nasal bone, pneumatized middle turbinate, paradox middle turbinate, Agger nasi cell, Haller cell, Onodi cell, supraorbital cell, pneumatized uncinate process, and nasal septal deviation. The effect of each anatomical variation on the length and thickness of the lateral nasal bone was investigated. The patients with bilateral pneumatized middle turbinate and the patients with bilateral Agger nasi cell had a thinner lateral nasal bone both on the right and the left sides compared to those without. The patients with bilateral Onodi cell and Agger nasi cell had a longer lateral nasal bone both on the right and the left sides compared to those without. The nasal bone thickness was significantly thicker on the deviation side than the contralateral nasal bone. The nasal bone length was significantly longer on the side of the septum deviation. In this study, we found that sex, presence of Agger nasi and Onodi cells, pneumatization of middle turbinate, and direction of nasal septal deviation influenced the morphology of the nasal bone. For successful nasal surgery, careful examination of preoperative anatomical variations is very important.
Intracranial Volume Post Cranial Expansion Surgery Using Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography Scan Imaging in Children With Craniosynostosis
Authors: Sulong Shukriyah , Alias Azmi , Johanabas Fadzlishah , Yap Abdullah Johari , Idris Badrisyah
Published: August 2019

Background:

Craniosynostosis is a congenital defect that causes ≥1 suture to fuse prematurely. Cranial expansion surgery which consists of cranial vault reshaping with or without fronto-orbital advancement (FOA) is done to correct the skull to a more normal shape of the head as well as to increase the intracranial volume (ICV). Therefore, it is important to evaluate the changes of ICV after the surgery and the effect of surgery both clinically and radiologically.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the ICV in primary craniosynostosis patients after the cranial vault reshaping with or without FOA and to compare between syndromic and nonsyndromic synostosis group, to determine factors that associated with significant changes in the ICV postoperative, and to evaluate the resolution of copper beaten sign and improvement in neurodevelopmental delay after the surgery.

Methods:

This is a prospective observational study of all primary craniosynostosis patients who underwent operation cranial vault reshaping with or without FOA in Hospital Kuala Lumpur from January 2017 until Jun 2018. The ICV preoperative and postoperative was measured using the 3D computed tomography (CT) imaging and analyzed. The demographic data, clinical and radiological findings were identified and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 14 cases (6 males and 8 females) with 28 3D CT scans were identified. The mean age of patients was 23 months. Seven patients were having syndromic synostosis (4 Crouzon syndromes and 3 Apert syndromes) and 7 nonsyndromic synostosis. The mean preoperative ICV was 880 mL (range, 641–1234 mL), whereas the mean postoperative ICV was 1081 mL (range, 811–1385 mL). The difference was 201 mL which was statistically significant (P < 0.001). In comparison, the mean volume increment for syndromic synostosis and nonsyndromic synostosis was 282 mL and 120 mL, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.004). Three months post-operation, the copper beaten sign was still present in the CT scan which was statistically not significant in this study (P > 1.0). However, there was 100% (n = 13) improvement of this copper beaten sign. However, the neurodevelopmental delay showed no improvement which was statistically not significant (P > 1.0).

Conclusion:

Surgery in craniosynostosis patient increases the ICV besides it improves the shape of the head. From this study, the syndromic synostosis had better increment of ICV compared to nonsyndromic synostosis.
Neurochemical biomarkers in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Verde Federico , Silani Vincenzo , Otto Markus
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

The diagnosis of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) still relies mainly on clinical criteria. In present review we will provide an overview of neurochemical ALS biomarkers, which are in the most advanced position on the way towards inclusion into the clinical work-up.

Recent findings

The field of ALS neurology still lacks a neurochemical marker for routine clinical use. However, this is urgently needed, because it would help in diagnosis, prognostic stratification, and monitoring of drug response. Despite this lack of a routinely used biomarker, in the last decade significant progress has been made in the field. In particular, two molecules have been extensively studied – the light chain and the phosphorylated form of the heavy chain of neurofilaments, NFL and pNFH, respectively – which have demonstrated a high diagnostic performance and promising prognostic value and are therefore ready to be introduced into the clinical scenario. On the other hand, we still lack a neurochemical cerebrospinal fluid or blood biomarker reflecting TDP-43 pathology.

Neurofilaments seem to be ready for clinical use in the early and differential diagnosis of ALS. We also highlight still unresolved issues which deserve further investigation.
The Karabo distributed control system
Authors: Hauf Steffen , Heisen Burkhard , Aplin Steve , Beg Marijan , Bergemann Martin , Bondar Valerii , Boukhelef Djelloul , Danilevsky Cyril , Ehsan Wajid , Essenov Sergey , Fabbri Riccardo , Flucke Gero , Fulla Marsa Daniel , Göries Dennis , Giovanetti Gabriele , Hickin David , Jarosiewicz Tobiasz , Kamil Ebad , Khakhulin Dmitry , Klimovskaia Anna , Kluyver Thomas , Kirienko Yury , Kuhn Manuela , Maia Luis , Mamchyk Denys , Mariani Valerio , Mekinda Leonce , Michelat Thomas , Münnich Astrid , Padee Anna , Parenti Andrea , Santos Hugo , Silenzi Alessandro , Teichmann Martin , Weger Kerstin , Wiggins John , Wrona Krzysztof , Xu Chen , Youngman Christopher , Zhu Jun , Fangohr Hans , Brockhauser Sandor
Published: August 2019

The Karabo distributed control system has been developed to address the challenging requirements of the European X-ray Free Electron Laser facility, including complex and custom-made hardware, high data rates and volumes, and close integration of data analysis for distributed processing and rapid feedback. Karabo is a pluggable, distributed application management system forming a supervisory control and data acquisition environment as part of a distributed control system. Karabo provides integrated control of hardware, monitoring, data acquisition and data analysis on distributed hardware, allowing rapid control feedback based on complex algorithms. Services exist for access control, data logging, configuration management and situational awareness through alarm indicators. The flexible framework enables quick response to the changing requirements in control and analysis, and provides an efficient environment for development, and a single interface to make all changes immediately available to operators and experimentalists.
Dynamic observation of X-ray Laue diffraction on single-crystal tungsten during pulsed heat load
Authors: Arakcheev Aleksey S. , Aulchenko Vladimir M. , Balash Ilya I. , Burdakov Aleksandr V. , Chernyakin Aleksandr D. , Dokutovich Valentin A. , Evdokov Oleg V. , Kasatov Aleksandr A. , Kazantsev Sergey R. , Kosov Aleksandr V. , Popov Vladimir A. , Sharafutdinov Marat R. , Shekhtman Lev I. , Shoshin Andrey A. , Tolochko Boris P. , Vasilyev Aleksandr A. , Vyacheslavov Leonid N. , Vaigel Liubov A. , Zhulanov Vladimir V.
Published: August 2019

The dynamics of the diffraction peak shape during pulsed heat load on mosaic single-crystal tungsten were measured at the `Plasma' scattering station on the eighth beamline of the VEPP-4 synchrotron radiation source at the Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics. The observed evolution of the diffraction peak shape agrees with theoretical predictions based on calculations of deformation caused by pulsed heating. Three clearly distinguishable stages of the diffraction-peak evolution were found, correlating with the evolution of temperature and deformation distributions. The residual plastic deformation increased with subsequent heating pulses.
Comparative study of 1,2,3-triazole derivatives as corrosion inhibitors of mild steel in sulphuric acid solution
Authors: Elazhary Ilham , Laamari My Rachid , Boutouil Aziz , Bahsis Lahoucine , El Haddad Mohammadine , Anane Hafid , Stiriba Salah-Eddine
Published: August 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to study the corrosion inhibition of Methyl 2-(benzamido)-2-(4-phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl) acetate (MBPTA) and Methyl 2-(benzamido)-2-(4-p-tolyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl) acetate (MBTTA) in 1 M H2SO4 solution at 25 °C.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have used weight loss measurements, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), potentiodynamic polarization, FT-IR, quantum chemical calculations and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques.

Findings

The polarization measurements indicate that both compounds are mixed type inhibitors, and that MBTTA is more effective than MBPTA. The effect of temperature on the corrosion behavior using optimal concentration of MBTTA and MBPTA was studied in the temperature range 298-328 K. SEM was used to examine the morphology of the metal surface. Thermodynamic parameters were calculated and discussed. Monte Carlo simulations were applied to lookup for the most stalls configuration and adsorption energy for the interaction of inhibitors on Fe (1 1 1) interface. The difference in inhibition efficiencies between the two organic inhibitors can be clearly explained in terms of frontier molecular orbital theory.

Originality/value

The authors report on the comparative inhibiting effect of two new 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazoles, namely Methyl 2-(benzamido)-2-(4-phenyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl) acetate (MBPTA) and Methyl 2-(benzamido)-2-(4-p-tolyl-1H-1, 2, 3-triazol-1-yl) acetate (MBTTA) on mild steel corrosion in 1 M H2SO4solution.
Influence of pH level of artificial saliva on corrosion behavior and nickel ion release of a Ni-Cr-Mo alloy: an in vitro study
Authors: Moslehifard Elnaz , Ghasemzadeh Sanaz , Nasirpouri Farzad
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper (in vitro) study was to determine the effect of pH of artificial saliva on the corrosion behavior of a Ni-Cr-Mo alloy at 37 ± 1°C.

Design/methodology/approach

The corrosion behavior of a commercially available Ni-Cr-Mo base dental alloy was studied by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques. The effect of pH on corrosion and Ni ion release was also investigated by scanning electron microscopy and atomic absorption spectroscopy.

Findings

The results suggested that the order of corrosion rate was: pH3 > pH5 > pH9 > pH7. Corrosion rate in pH3 was significantly different with other pH levels. Nickel depletion significantly occurred in alloy without passivation. The corrosion resistance and ion release of Ni-Cr-Mo alloys in different pH levels of artificial saliva depended on the stability of the passive layer. Acidic pH level severely corrodes Ni-Cr-Mo base metal alloys and increases Ni ion release.

Originality/value

This manuscript describes the relationship between corrosion rate and nickel ion release of a dental Ni-Cr-Mo base alloy as a function of saliva pH examined by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), polarization, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy in artificial saliva. The main novelty of this work includes the material/structure/corrosion relationship in artificial saliva with different pH. This property would be very interesting for dental materials applications and clinical dentistry.
Dynamic supplier selection through optimal ranking under two-echelon system
Authors: Ahmad Md Tanweer , Mondal Sandeep
Published: August 2019

Purpose

With the increasing competition among the industries, they remain under pressure as how to select the best set of suppliers for the competitive edge. Often, it has been challenging to develop an effective set of suppliers due to varied and asymmetric mode of criteria. The purpose of this paper is to develop a responsive chain under original equipment manufacturer (OEM).

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposes a responsive chain under a two-echelon system (TES) of OEM, which needs to collaborate with a set of suppliers at each echelon through an integrated methodology of AHP and TOPSIS. According to the OEM’s criteria, demands and suppliers’ capacity vary with time, therefore they are not static for a longer period. Hence, supplier selection (SS) problem possesses dynamicity in real practice. For this, MILP is used for finding optimal order quantities based on the optimal ranking at each echelon in the multi-period scenario. Subsequently, sensitivity analysis (SA) is conducted through Taguchi method of parameter design (TMPD) to achieve an optimal ranking in the TES.

Findings

This study suggests optimal criteria’s weight, percentage contribution, and flexibility for the suppliers and manufacturers involving through maximum demand strategy at each echelon of OEM. It also provides robust group of suppliers and manufacturers in the TES through optimal ranking and simultaneously in the order allocations. Furthermore, it restricts the number of suppliers and manufactures at each echelon through proposed methodology to obtain the solution in a very short running time.

Originality/value

To validate this model, a real data set for the case of chain conveyor company is used. This adopted methodology can suggest the organization that how the approach should be implemented.
Employee motivation, emotions, and performance: a longitudinal diary study
Authors: Reizer Abira , Brender-Ilan Yael , Sheaffer Zachary
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Numerous studies have focused on the effect of motivation on performance in the workplace. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the somewhat overlooked role of positive and negative emotions as potential mediators of this critical association.

Design/methodology/approach

The longitudinal study employed multilevel modeling for assessing the effects of motivation, emotions and work satisfaction on job performance. In total, 116 respondents provided 1,044 responses at nine consecutive measurement points.

Findings

Findings indicated that positive emotions and job satisfaction mediate the positive association between autonomous motivation and performance. Concurrently, negative emotions and decreased job satisfaction mediated the negative associations between controlled motivation and job performance.

Research limitations/implications

The results address only the within-subject and between-subject analysis of temporal variations in emotions and behavior. Future studies can include higher levels of analysis, such as group, team and organizational contexts.

Originality/value

This research contributes to self-determination theory by highlighting the role of emotions in understanding how motivation shapes workplace performance.
Geologic legacy spanning >90 years explains unique Yellowstone hot spring geochemistry and biodiversity
Authors: Payne Devon , Dunham Eric C. , Mohr Elizabeth , Miller Isaac , Arnold Adrienne , Erickson Reece , Fones Elizabeth M. , Lindsay Melody R. , Colman Daniel R. , Boyd Eric S.
Published: August 2019

Little is known about how the geological history of an environment shapes its physical and chemical properties and how these, in turn, influence the assembly of communities. Evening primrose (EP), a moderately acidic hot spring (pH 5.6, 77.4°C) in Yellowstone National Park (YNP), has undergone dramatic physicochemical change linked to seismic activity. Here, we show that this legacy of geologic change led to the development of an unusual sulphur‐rich, anoxic chemical environment that supports a unique archaeal‐dominated and anaerobic microbial community. Metagenomic sequencing and informatics analyses reveal that >96% of this community is supported by dissimilatory reduction or disproportionation of inorganic sulphur compounds, including a novel, deeply diverging sulphate‐reducing thaumarchaeote. When compared to other YNP metagenomes, the inferred functions of EP populations were like those from sulphur‐rich acidic springs, suggesting that sulphur may overprint the predominant influence of pH on the composition of hydrothermal communities. Together, these observations indicate that the dynamic geological history of EP underpins its unique geochemistry and biodiversity, emphasizing the need to consider the legacy of geologic change when describing processes that shape the assembly of communities.
The vaginal microbiome in uterine transplantation
Authors: Jones BP , Saso S , L'Heveder A , Bracewell‐Milnes T , Thum M‐Y , Diaz‐Garcia C , MacIntyre DA , Quiroga I , Ghaem‐Maghami S , Testa G , Johannesson L , Bennett PR , Yazbek J , Smith JR
Published: August 2019

Women with congenital absolute uterine factor infertility (AUFI) often need vaginal restoration to optimise sexual function. Given their lack of procreative ability, little consideration has previously been given to the resultant vaginal microbiome (VM). Uterine transplantation (UTx) now offers the opportunity to restore these women's reproductive potential. The structure of the VM is associated with clinical and reproductive implications that are intricately intertwined with the process of UTx. Consideration of how vaginal restoration methods impact VM is now warranted and assessment of the VM in future UTx procedures is essential to understand the interrelation of the VM and clinical and reproductive outcomes.

Tweetable abstract

The vaginal microbiome has numerous implications for clinical and reproductive outcomes in the context of uterine transplantation.
Market Integration and Market Efficiency under Seasonal Tariff Rate Quotas
Authors: Hillen Judith
Published: August 2019

Switzerland applies seasonal tariff rate quotas (TRQs) for the import of many fruits and vegetables during the domestic harvest season. We examine how this system affects the relationship between Italian and Swiss tomato prices and test for physical market integration and spatial equilibrium conditions over time. We use detailed, transaction‐based data on trade flows and trade costs and estimate an extended parity bounds model, following Barrett and Li (2002). We confirm that in the summer season, when TRQs are in place, markets are inefficient. While quota holders receive positive rents, the marginal rents for importers without quota shares are negative. This inhibits trade flows above the in‐quota import quantity allowed by TRQs. Hence, despite leading to inefficiencies and creating rents for importers, seasonal TRQs are effective in protecting domestic production against competing imports.
Determining Volumetric Shrinkage Trends of Burnt Bone Using Micro‐CT
Authors: Ellingham Sarah , A. Sandholzer Michael
Published: August 2019

Understanding the degree and pattern of shrinkage undergone by bone when subjected to heating is crucial to accurately deduce a biological profile from incinerated remains. X‐ray microtomography (micro‐CT) enables a nondestructive insight into hard tissue structural changes, while allowing for an accurate documentation of volumetric and trabecular shrinkage. Sheep ribs were experimentally burned at temperatures between 400 and 1000°C in 100°C increments and their volumetric shrinkage was calculated. Observed shrinkage ranged from 14.0% at 400°C to 45.5% at 1000°C. Bones burned at temperatures up to 600°C showed no significant difference, whereas the 700 and 800°C samples exhibited higher shrinkage. Bones burnt at 900 and 1000°C showed significantly higher shrinkage than the other temperature groups. Findings signify the potential of micro‐CT in research on the effects of factors such as diagenesis or burning on the bone density, morphology and microarchitecture.
Women's Authority in Patriarchal Social Movements: The Case of Female Salafi Preachers
Authors: Nielsen Richard A.
Published: August 2019

How do women gain authority in the public sphere, especially in contexts where patriarchal norms are prevalent? I argue that the leaders of patriarchal social movements face pragmatic incentives to expand women's authority roles when seeking new movement members. Women authorities help patriarchal movements by making persuasive, identity‐based arguments in favor of patriarchy that men cannot, and by reaching new audiences that men cannot. I support this argument by examining the rise of online female preachers in the Islamist Salafi movement, using interviews, Twitter analysis, and automated text analysis of 21,000 texts by 172 men and 43 women on the Salafi‐oriented website saaid.net. To show the theory's generality, I also apply it to the contemporary white nationalist movement in the United States. The findings illustrate how movements that aggressively enforce traditional gender roles for participants can nevertheless increase female authority for pragmatic political reasons.
Upregulated SHP‐2 expression in the epileptogenic zone of temporal lobe epilepsy and various effects of SHP099 treatment on a pilocarpine model
Authors: Yue Jiong , Liang Chao , Wu Kefu , Hou Zhi , Wang Lukang , Zhang Chunqing , Liu Shiyong , Yang Hui
Published: August 2019

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is defined as the sporadic occurrence of spontaneous recurrent seizures, and its pathogenesis is complex. SHP‐2 (Src homology 2‐containing protein tyrosine phosphatase 2) is a widely expressed cytosolic tyrosine phosphatase protein that participates in the regulation of inflammation, angiogenesis, gliosis, neurogenesis and apoptosis, suggesting a potential role of SHP‐2 in TLE. Therefore, we investigated the expression patterns of SHP‐2 in the epileptogenic brain tissue of intractable TLE patients and the various effects of treatment with the SHP‐2‐specific inhibitor SHP099 on a pilocarpine model. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry results confirmed that SHP‐2 expression was upregulated in the temporal neocortex of patients with TLE. Double‐labeling experiments revealed that SHP‐2 was highly expressed in neurons, astrocytes, microglia and vascular endothelial cells in the epileptic foci of TLE patients. In the pilocarpine‐induced C57BL/6 mouse model, SHP‐2 upregulation in the hippocampus began one day after status epilepticus, reached a peak at 21 days and then maintained a significantly high level until day 60. Similarly, we found a remarkable increase in SHP‐2 expression at 1, 7, 21 and 60 days post‐SE in the temporal neocortex. In addition, we also showed that SHP099 increased reactive gliosis, the release of IL‐1β, neuronal apoptosis and neuronal loss, while reduced neurogenesis and albumin leakage. Taken together, the increased expression of SHP‐2 in the epileptic zone may be involved in the process of TLE.