bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of radiative heat transfer model on the computation of residual stresses in glass tempering process
Authors: Agboka Kossiga , Béchet Fabien , Siedow Norbert , Lochegnies Dominique
Published: November 2017

During glass tempering, residual stresses are caused by the temperature gradient appearing between the surface and the core of the glass. It is therefore necessary to have an accurate knowledge of the heat transfer occurring during the process to obtain an accurate estimation of the residual stresses. Since glass is a semitransparent material, radiative heat transfer takes place inside the glass in addition to the conductive heat transfer. In this paper, we implemented 1‐D thermomechanical models using different methods for the computation of the radiative effects inside the glass: Rosseland approximation, P1 approximation and back ray tracing. Thermal and residual stresses results are compared to experimental results available in the literature to investigate the effects of the different methods on the heat transfer and mechanical behavior. We found that P1 approximation and back ray tracing are in good agreement with the experimental results. Finally, a numerical investigation is done by changing different parameters for which the experimental results are not available.
Is the open cystectomy era over? An update on the available evidence
Authors: Tyritzis Stavros I , Wiklund N Peter
Published: November 2017

In 2018, robot‐assisted radical cystectomy will enter its 15th year. In an era where an effort is being made to standardize complication reporting and videos of the procedure are readily available, it is inevitable and justified that like everything novel, robot‐assisted radical cystectomy should be scrutinized against the gold standard, open radical cystectomy. The present comparison is focused on several parameters: oncological, functional and complication outcomes, and direct and indirect costs. Meta‐analysis and prospective randomized trials comparing robot‐assisted radical cystectomy versus open radical cystectomy have been published, showing an oncological equivalence and in some cases an advantage of robot‐assisted radical cystectomy in terms of postoperative morbidity. In the present review, we attempt to update the available knowledge on this debate and discuss the limitations of the current evidence that prevent us from drawing safe conclusions.
Ecological opportunity and ecomorphological convergence in Australasian robins (Petroicidae)
Authors: García‐Navas Vicente , Rodríguez-Rey Marta , Christidis Les
Published: November 2017

Ecological theories of adaptive radiation predict that ecological opportunity (EO) stimulates cladogenesis through entry into a novel environment and/or release of competition pressures. Due to its dynamic paleoclimatic and geological history, the Australo‐Papuan region constitutes an opportune scenario to study patterns of diversification in relation to the colonization of new ecological niches. Here, we employ a comparative framework using the Australasian robins (Petroicidae) as a model system to test whether the diversification of this bird family fulfils a niche‐filling process as predicted by the EO model, and to test whether the observed morphological similarity is described by a pattern of phylogenetic niche conservatism (PNC) or convergence. Although we detected an early‐burst, we did not find a slowdown in speciation or morphological evolution as expected in a niche‐filling scenario. Divergence in tarsus length and tail length (PC1) was consistent with a multi‐peak model, in which PC1 represents a convergent trait among distantly related clades sharing the same foraging strategy. Our study thus shows that convergence rather than PNC seems to explain the existence of morphological similarity across independent lineages in the Petroicidae. We also found a low level of PNC regarding annual variations in temperature and precipitation, which is in agreement with the hypothesis that diversification within the Petroicidae involved repeated radiations. We suggest two non‐mutually exclusive hypotheses to explain the overall lack of density‐dependent cladogenesis. First, the extreme spatial and temporal heterogeneity of this region may have generated a pattern of repeated ecological opportunity over time and, second, this family may not yet have reached equilibrium diversity.
Avoidance, tolerance, and resistance to ectoparasites in nestling and adult tree swallows
Authors: DeSimone Joely G. , Clotfelter Ethan D. , Black Elizabeth C. , Knutie Sarah A.
Published: November 2017

We examined avoidance, tolerance, and resistance strategies of nestling and adult tree swallows Tachycineta bicolor in response to ectoparasitic blowflies Protocalliphora sialia. Tree swallows avoided settling in north‐facing nest boxes early in the breeding season. These boxes were more likely to be parasitized later in the season, suggesting that box selection may facilitate blowfly avoidance. After experimentally manipulating blowfly intensity, we found that nestlings were generally tolerant of parasitism. Parasites significantly reduced nestling blood hemoglobin but had no effect on nestling body mass, primary feather growth, age at fledging, or fledging success. Parents of parasitized nestlings did not increase their food provisioning rate to promote nestling tolerance. Adult female tree swallows demonstrated both tolerance and resistance: blowfly parasitism had no effect on adult hemoglobin and body mass, and those with higher P. sialia‐binding antibody levels had fewer blowfly larvae in their nests. Nestling antibodies were unrelated to blowfly intensity. Despite considerable variation among years, our results suggest that the costs of blowfly parasitism to nestling and adult tree swallows are modest, and limited to blood loss in nestlings. Future work should examine the effects of reduced blood hemoglobin on fledgling survival and the importance of parasite‐specific antibodies.
A comparison of accuracy validation methods for genomic and pedigree‐based predictions of swine litter size traits using Large White and simulated data
Authors: Putz A.M. , Tiezzi F. , Maltecca C. , Gray K.A. , Knauer M.T.
Published: November 2017

The objective of this study was to compare and determine the optimal validation method when comparing accuracy from single‐step GBLUP (ssGBLUP) to traditional pedigree‐based BLUP. Field data included six litter size traits. Simulated data included ten replicates designed to mimic the field data in order to determine the method that was closest to the true accuracy. Data were split into training and validation sets. The methods used were as follows: (i) theoretical accuracy derived from the prediction error variance (PEV) of the direct inverse (iLHS), (ii) approximated accuracies from the accf90(GS) program in the BLUPF90 family of programs (Approx), (iii) correlation between predictions and the single‐step GEBVs from the full data set (GEBVFull), (iv) correlation between predictions and the corrected phenotypes of females from the full data set (Yc), (v) correlation from method iv divided by the square root of the heritability (Ych) and (vi) correlation between sire predictions and the average of their daughters' corrected phenotypes (Ycs). Accuracies from iLHS increased from 0.27 to 0.37 (37%) in the Large White. Approximation accuracies were very consistent and close in absolute value (0.41 to 0.43). Both iLHS and Approx were much less variable than the corrected phenotype methods (ranging from 0.04 to 0.27). On average, simulated data showed an increase in accuracy from 0.34 to 0.44 (29%) using ssGBLUP. Both iLHS and Ych approximated the increase well, 0.30 to 0.46 and 0.36 to 0.45, respectively. GEBVFull performed poorly in both data sets and is not recommended. Results suggest that for within‐breed selection, theoretical accuracy using PEV was consistent and accurate. When direct inversion is infeasible to get the PEV, correlating predictions to the corrected phenotypes divided by the square root of heritability is adequate given a large enough validation data set.
Women's attractiveness is linked to expected age at menopause
Authors: Bovet J. , Barkat‐Defradas M. , Durand V. , Faurie C. , Raymond M.
Published: November 2017

A great number of studies have shown that features linked to immediate fertility explain a large part of the variance in female attractiveness. This is consistent with an evolutionary perspective, as men are expected to prefer females at the age at which fertility peaks (at least for short‐term relationships) in order to increase their reproductive success. However, for long‐term relationships, a high residual reproductive value (the expected future reproductive output, linked to age at menopause) becomes relevant as well. In that case, young age and late menopause are expected to be preferred by men. However, the extent to which facial features provide cues to the likely age at menopause has never been investigated so far. Here, we show that expected age at menopause is linked to facial attractiveness of young women. As age at menopause is heritable, we used the mother's age at menopause as a proxy for her daughter's expected age of menopause. We found that men judged faces of women with a later expected age at menopause as more attractive than those of women with an earlier expected age at menopause. This result holds when age, cues of immediate fertility and facial ageing were controlled for. Additionally, we found that the expected age at menopause was not correlated with any of the other variables considered (including immediate fertility cues and facial ageing). Our results show the existence of a new correlate of women's facial attractiveness, expected age at menopause, which is independent of immediate fertility cues and facial ageing.
Incubation media affect the survival, pathway and time of embryo development in Neotropical annual fish Austrolebias nigrofasciatus (Rivulidae)
Authors: da Fonseca A. P. , Volcan M. V. , Robaldo R. B.
Published: November 2017

To analyse the survival, pathway and time of embryo development in the annual fish Austrolebias nigrofasciatus eggs were monitored in four liquid media and two damp media under experimental conditions for 130 days until their development was complete. Eggs kept in the same breeding water from oviposition remained in diapause I (DI) during all experiments. In constrast, up to the stage prior to entering diapause II (DII), the other media had no influence on development. Embryos at this stage (DII), however, show longer development time when treated in medium with water and powdered coconut shell so that about 80% of embryos remained in DII at 100 days. In contrast, all other treatments had a significantly lower proportion of embryos remaining in DII. When treated with Yamamoto's solution in humid media, embryos showed the fastest development. The first fully developed embryos (DIII) were seen at 27 days after oviposition. It took an average of 46–58 days for 50% of eggs in each treatment to reach DIII. Compared with other studies, survival in all incubation media was high at between 70 and 98%. Taken together, it can be concluded that all incubation media were found to be viable for maintaining embryos. Altering developmental trajectories through the manipulation of diapauses in different media makes this species a potential model organism for laboratory studies.
Association between Helicobacter pylori infection and gallbladder diseases: A retrospective study
Authors: Xu Mei‐Yan , Ma Jia‐Hui , Yuan Bao‐Shi , Yin Jian , Liu Lan , Lu Qing‐Bin
Published: November 2017

Background and Aim

The association between Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and gallbladder diseases is still unclear and is controversial. We conducted a retrospective study to clarify the prevalence of gallbladder diseases and factors related to gallbladder diseases and relationships between H. pylori infection, gallstones, cholecystitis, and cholecystic polypus.

Methods

The retrospective study was performed at the Aerospace Center Hospital in Beijing. The subjects in this study were a healthy population who underwent health examinations at the hospital between 2012 and 2015. The logistic regression models were used to explore the relationships between H. pylori infection and gallbladder diseases.

Results

There were 7803 (43.4%) subjects with H. pylori infection, 995 (5.5%) with gallstones, 219 (1.2%) with cholecystitis, and 1003 (5.6%) with cholecystic polypus amongst 17 971 subjects, respectively. In subjects aged 45 years or less, the prevalence of gallstones in the H. pylori (+) group was lower than that in the H. pylori (−) group (odds ratio = 0.653; 95% confidence interval: 0.468–0.911; P = 0.012). The prevalence of cholecystic polypus in the H. pylori (+) group was significantly higher than that in the H. pylori (−) group (odds ratio = 1.160; 95% confidence interval: 1.012–1.328; P = 0.033).

Conclusions

Helicobacter pylori infection was related with cholecystic polypus and gallstones in a Chinese population.
Community Program Improves Quality of Life and Self‐Management in Older Adults with Diabetes Mellitus and Comorbidity
Authors: Markle‐Reid Maureen , Ploeg Jenny , Fraser Kimberly D. , Fisher Kathryn A. , Bartholomew Amy , Griffith Lauren E. , Miklavcic John , Gafni Amiram , Thabane Lehana , Upshur Ross
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To compare the effect of a 6‐month community‐based intervention with that of usual care on quality of life, depressive symptoms, anxiety, self‐efficacy, self‐management, and healthcare costs in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and 2 or more comorbidities.

Design

Multisite, single‐blind, parallel, pragmatic, randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Four communities in Ontario, Canada.

Participants

Community‐dwelling older adults (≥65) with T2DM and 2 or more comorbidities randomized into intervention (n = 80) and control (n = 79) groups (N = 159).

Intervention

Client‐driven, customized self‐management program with up to 3 in‐home visits from a registered nurse or registered dietitian, a monthly group wellness program, monthly provider team case conferences, and care coordination and system navigation.

Measurements

Quality‐of‐life measures included the Physical Component Summary (PCS, primary outcome) and Mental Component Summary (MCS, secondary outcome) scores of the Medical Outcomes Study 12‐item Short‐Form Health Survey (SF‐12). Other secondary outcome measures were the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES‐D‐10), Summary of Diabetes Self‐Care Activities (SDSCA), Self‐Efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease, and healthcare costs.

Results

Morbidity burden was high (average of eight comorbidities). Intention‐to‐treat analyses using analysis of covariance showed a group difference favoring the intervention for the MCS (mean difference = 2.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.28–5.09, P = .03), SDSCA (mean difference = 3.79, 95% CI = 1.02–6.56, P = .01), and CES‐D‐10 (mean difference = −1.45, 95% CI = −0.13 to −2.76, P = .03). No group differences were seen in PCS score, anxiety, self‐efficacy, or total healthcare costs.

Conclusion

Participation in a 6‐month community‐based intervention improved quality of life and self‐management and reduced depressive symptoms in older adults with T2DM and comorbidity without increasing total healthcare costs.
Investigating the response of biotite to impact metamorphism: Examples from the Steen River impact structure, Canada
Authors: Walton E. L. , Sharp T. G. , Hu J. , Tschauner O.
Published: November 2017

Impact metamorphic effects from quartz and feldspar and to a lesser extent olivine and pyroxene have been studied in detail. Comparatively, studies documenting shock effects in other minerals, such as double chain inosilicates, phyllosilicates, carbonates, and sulfates, are lacking. In this study, we investigate impact metamorphism recorded in crystalline basement rocks from the Steen River impact structure (SRIS), a 25 km diameter complex crater in NW Alberta, Canada. An array of advanced analytical techniques was used to characterize the breakdown of biotite in two distinct settings: along the margins of localized regions of shock melting and within granitic target rocks entrained as clasts in a breccia. In response to elevated temperature gradients along shock vein margins, biotite transformed at high pressure to an almandine‐Ca/Fe majorite‐rich garnet with a density of 4.2 g cm−3. The shock‐produced garnets are poikilitic, with oxide and silicate glass inclusions. Areas interstitial to garnets are vesiculated, in support of models for the formation of shock veins via oscillatory slip, with deformation continuing during pressure release. Biotite within granitic clasts entrained within the hot breccia matrix thermally decomposed at ambient pressure to produce a fine‐grained mineral assemblage of orthopyroxene + sanidine + titanomagnetite. These minerals are aligned to the (001) cleavage plane of the original crystal. In this and previous work, the transformation of an inosilicate (pargasite) and a phyllosilicate (biotite) to form garnet, an easily identifiable, robust mineral, has been documented. We contend that in deeply eroded astroblemes, high‐pressure minerals that form within or in the environs of shock veins may serve as one of the possibly few surviving indicators of impact metamorphism.
Peptidoglycan in obligate intracellular bacteria
Authors: Otten Christian , Brilli Matteo , Vollmer Waldemar , Viollier Patrick H. , Salje Jeanne
Published: November 2017

Peptidoglycan is the predominant stress‐bearing structure in the cell envelope of most bacteria, and also a potent stimulator of the eukaryotic immune system. Obligate intracellular bacteria replicate exclusively within the interior of living cells, an osmotically protected niche. Under these conditions peptidoglycan is not necessarily needed to maintain the integrity of the bacterial cell. Moreover, the presence of peptidoglycan puts bacteria at risk of detection and destruction by host peptidoglycan recognition factors and downstream effectors. This has resulted in a selective pressure and opportunity to reduce the levels of peptidoglycan. In this review we have analysed the occurrence of genes involved in peptidoglycan metabolism across the major obligate intracellular bacterial species. From this comparative analysis, we have identified a group of predicted ‘peptidoglycan‐intermediate’ organisms that includes the Chlamydiae, Orientia tsutsugamushi, Wolbachia and Anaplasma marginale. This grouping is likely to reflect biological differences in their infection cycle compared with peptidoglycan‐negative obligate intracellular bacteria such as Ehrlichia and Anaplasma phagocytophilum, as well as obligate intracellular bacteria with classical peptidoglycan such as Coxiella, Buchnera and members of the Rickettsia genus. The signature gene set of the peptidoglycan‐intermediate group reveals insights into minimal enzymatic requirements for building a peptidoglycan‐like sacculus and/or division septum.
TbSmee1 regulates hook complex morphology and the rate of flagellar pocket uptake in Trypanosoma brucei
Authors: Perry Jenna A. , Sinclair‐Davis Amy N. , McAllaster Michael R. , de Graffenried Christopher L.
Published: November 2017

Trypanosoma brucei uses multiple mechanisms to evade detection by its insect and mammalian hosts. The flagellar pocket (FP) is the exclusive site of uptake from the environment in trypanosomes and shields receptors from exposure to the host. The FP neck is tightly associated with the flagellum via a series of cytoskeletal structures that include the hook complex (HC) and the centrin arm. These structures are implicated in facilitating macromolecule entry into the FP and nucleating the flagellum attachment zone (FAZ), which adheres the flagellum to the cell surface. TbSmee1 (Tb927.10.8820) is a component of the HC and a putative substrate of polo‐like kinase (TbPLK), which is essential for centrin arm and FAZ duplication. We show that depletion of TbSmee1 in the insect‐resident (procyclic) form of the parasite causes a 40% growth decrease and the appearance of multinucleated cells that result from defective cytokinesis. Cells lacking TbSmee1 contain HCs with aberrant morphology and show delayed uptake of both fluid‐phase and membrane markers. TbPLK localization to the tip of the new FAZ is also blocked. These results argue that TbSmee1 is necessary for maintaining HC morphology, which is important for the parasite's ability to take up molecules from its environment.
Comparative genomics of Spiraeoideae‐infecting Erwinia amylovora strains provides novel insight to genetic diversity and identifies the genetic basis of a low‐virulence strain
Authors: Zeng Quan , Cui Zhouqi , Wang Jie , Childs Kevin L. , Sundin George W. , Cooley Daniel R. , Yang Ching‐Hong , Garofalo Elizabeth , Eaton Alan , Huntley Regan B. , Yuan Xiaochen , Schultes Neil P.
Published: November 2017

Erwinia amylovora is the causal agent of fire blight, one of the most devastating diseases of apple and pear. Erwinia amylovora is thought to have originated in North America and has now spread to at least 50 countries worldwide. An understanding of the diversity of the pathogen population and the transmission to different geographical regions is important for the future mitigation of this disease. In this research, we performed an expanded comparative genomic study of the Spiraeoideae‐infecting (SI) E. amylovora population in North America and Europe. We discovered that, although still highly homogeneous, the genetic diversity of 30 E. amylovora genomes examined was about 30 times higher than previously determined. These isolates belong to four distinct clades, three of which display geographical clustering and one of which contains strains from various geographical locations (‘Widely Prevalent’ clade). Furthermore, we revealed that strains from the Widely Prevalent clade displayed a higher level of recombination with strains from a clade strictly from the eastern USA, which suggests that the Widely Prevalent clade probably originated from the eastern USA before it spread to other locations. Finally, we detected variations in virulence in the SI E. amylovora strains on immature pear, and identified the genetic basis of one of the low‐virulence strains as being caused by a single nucleotide polymorphism in hfq, a gene encoding an important virulence regulator. Our results provide insights into the population structure, distribution and evolution of SI E. amylovora in North America and Europe.
The genusTrifolium(Fabaceae) in south Europe: a critical review on species richness and distribution
Authors: Scoppola A. , Tirado J. López , Gutiérrez F. Manzano , Magrini S.
Published: November 2017

This paper deals with the diversity and biogeography ofTrifoliumin the Mediterranean Region. Data on 104 species, including 37 Mediterranean endemics and two established aliens, were gathered for 13 south European territories of seven countries: Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Croatia, Albania and Greece. Species richness, frequency, endemism rate, chorological traits and ecological preferences were studied. The study area encompasses 85% of the MediterraneanTrifoliumwith 82% of the Mediterranean endemics (sensu Med‐Checklist), most of them restricted to a few localities. Among the rarest species, mainly Mediterranean endemics, seven occur only in one phytogeographical region of Greece (T. andricum,T. argutum,T. caudatum,T. dolopium,T. mesogitanum,T. michaelis,T. phitosianum) and one in Sicily,T. bivonae. The unique Mediterranean endemic reported exclusively for the Iberian Peninsula isT. gemellum,also occurring in Algeria and Morocco. Only 17% of the species occur in all the examined territories:T. campestre,T. repens,T. arvenseandT. fragiferumare the most widespread. Multivariate analysis emphasized the connection among the territories with respect to the main centre of diversity and the main geographical east–west gradient of species richness. Greece is the richest country in south Europe with 89 wild species and 30 Mediterranean endemics, whereas Portugal has the lowest number of species (45) and only 6.7% of endemics. Over 60% of the species belong to Mediterranean s.l. chorotypes and 75% are therophytes, living mainly in grasslands, agricultural and ruderal habitats.Trifoliumrichness is consistent with species–area patterns known for each territory. Some species are still insufficiently studied and additional taxonomical and distributive analyses would be of great interest.
Confidence Sets for the Break Date in Cointegrating Regressions
Authors: Kurozumi Eiji , Skrobotov Anton
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we propose constructing confidence sets for a break date in cointegrating regressions by inverting a test for the break location, which is obtained by maximizing the weighted average of power. It is found that the limiting distribution of the test depends on the number of I(1) regressors whose coefficients sustain structural change and the number of I(1) regressors whose coefficients are fixed throughout the sample. By Monte Carlo simulations, we then show that compared with a confidence interval developed by using the existing method based on the limiting distribution of the break point estimator under the assumption of the shrinking shift, the confidence set proposed in the present paper has a more accurate coverage rate, while the length of the confidence set is comparable. By using the method developed in this paper, we then investigate the cointegrating regressions of Russian macroeconomic variables with oil prices with a break.
The cross‐sectional associations between objectively measured sedentary time and cardiometabolic health markers in adults – a systematic review with meta‐analysis component
Authors: Powell C. , Herring M. P. , Dowd K. P. , Donnelly A. E. , Carson B. P.
Published: November 2017

Sedentary time is viewed as an independent risk factor for adverse cardiometabolic health (CMH). No systematic review and meta‐analysis on the cross‐sectional associations between objectively measured sedentary time and CMH markers has been conducted. PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection were searched for papers that examined the cross‐sectional association between objectively measured sedentary time and CMH markers in adults. Forty‐six papers met the inclusion criteria. The included papers had a combined sample size of 70,576 and an age range of 18–87 years. To examine the effect of increased levels of sedentary time on CMH markers, data on effect sizes and moderators were extracted, where possible. By pooling the unadjusted data from the included papers, increased sedentary time was shown to have a significant detrimental association with fasting glucose (Δ = 0.12, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.02, 0.23), fasting insulin (Δ = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.32), triglycerides (Δ = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.14, 0.37), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (Δ = −0.20, 95% CI: −0.28, −0.13) and waist circumference (Δ = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.15, 0.35). How sedentary time was quantified and the device used to measure sedentary time significantly influence the size of the effect reported. Future interventions focused on both decreasing sedentary time and increasing physical activity may be the most effective strategy to improve CMH.
Aplasia cutis congenita: Evaluation of signs suggesting extracutaneous involvement
Authors: Patel Deepa P. , Castelo‐Soccio Leslie , Yan Albert C.
Published: November 2017

Specific clinical features of aplasia cutis congenita may indicate the presence of underlying cranial or cerebrovascular defects, allowing for early recognition and intervention. Most information about aplasia cutis congenita exists as individual case reports, with few large‐scale studies. We conducted a 7‐year retrospective chart review of 90 cases of aplasia cutis congenita and identified clinical characteristics including morphology, number of lesions, anatomic location, presence of hair collar sign, associated cutaneous features, histology, and imaging results. The anatomic location of the lesion (vertex, midline) (P = .01), presence of hair collar sign (P < .001), vascular stains (P < .001), and nodules (P = .007) were found to be strong clinical indicators of skull or cerebrovascular involvement.
Direct hyperbilirubinemia in infants with congenital heart disease
Authors: Fujishiro Jun , Sugiyama Masahiko , Ishimaru Tetsuya , Watanabe Miho , Sato Kaori , Hoshino Noriko , Uotani Chizue , Kutsukake Mai , Hirata Yoichiro , Oka Akira
Published: November 2017

Background

The association between congenital heart disease (CHD) and infantile cholestasis, a key finding for the diagnosis of biliary atresia (BA), has not been previously investigated. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the characteristics of direct hyperbilirubinemia (D‐HB) in infants with CHD.

Methods

All neonates admitted to the present hospital and diagnosed with CHD in 2015 and 2016 were included. D‐HB (direct bilirubin ≥ 2.0 mg/dL) at ≤60 days of age and other clinical parameters were retrospectively reviewed. Statistical analysis according to presence of D‐HB was performed using chi‐squared test or Wilcoxon rank sum test.

Results

Seventy‐six patients (M:F, 36:40) were included in this study. CHD consisted of ventricular septal defect in 17, patent ductus arteriosus in 10, and other in 49. Thirteen patients (17.1%) had D‐HB at ≤60 days of age. Resolution of D‐HB (DB < 2.0 mg/dL) occurred in 10 of the 13 patients during the hospital stay, and this occurred in ≤7 days in eight of the 10 patients. Sex, gestational age, birthweight, chromosomal anomalies, need for Fontan operation for CHD repair, and/or cardiac operation were not associated with D‐HB at ≤60 days of age.

Conclusion

While D‐HB was frequently observed in infants with CHD, the majority of D‐HB cases resolved spontaneously in ≤1 week. Neonatal clinical parameters or CHD status was not predictive of D‐HB. D‐HB lasting >1 week in infants with CHD should be evaluated for the cause.
In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy in daily practice: Image features correlated to histopathology
Authors: Pan Z.‐Y. , Dong D.‐K. , Chen S.‐J. , Lu L.‐Y. , Hu T.‐T. , Ju Q.
Published: November 2017

Background

In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) represents a promising technique for noninvasive visualization of skin lesions. In the clinical daily practice, doctors want to know the relationship between the RCM images and the skin pathological changes.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify the basic skin pathological changes under RCM, and use RCM terminology to describe these pathological changes.

Methods

A total of 100 patients were recruited and were evaluated both by RCM and histopathologic examination. Ten healthy volunteers were also recruited as control. RCM examinations were done and biopsies of the lesions at the same site of RCM examination were performed for histopathology analysis.

Results

The pathological changes including hyperkeratosis, parakeratosis, acanthosis, papilloma, spongiosis, pustule, vacuolar degeneration, hyperpigmentation, changes of collagen fibers, and vascular changes can be imaged by RCM and corresponded well to their histopathology. RCM failed to find the atypical keratinocytes in two squamous cell carcinoma cases because of the hyperkeratosis and failed to find the vascular changes in one port wine stain cases because of the limitation of detecting depth.

Conclusion

Features correlating well to histopathology are observed on RCM. RCM can be used as an auxiliary diagnosis tool for the clinical diagnosis.
Empowering students with the hidden curriculum
Authors: Neve Hilary , Collett Tracey
Published: November 2017

Background

The hidden curriculum (HC) refers to unscripted, ad hoc learning that occurs outside the formal, taught curriculum and can have a powerful influence on the professional development of students. While this learning may be positive, it may conflict with that taught in the formal curriculum. Medical schools take a range of steps to address these negative effects; however, the existence and nature of the concept tends to be hidden from students.

Methods

Since 2007, our medical school has incorporated into its small group programme an educational activity exploring the concept of the hidden curriculum. We undertook a qualitative evaluation of our intervention, conducting a thematic analysis of students’ wiki reflections about the HC. We also analysed students’ responses to a short questionnaire about the educational approach used.

Findings

The majority of students felt that the HC session was important and relevant. Most appeared able to identify positive and negative HC experiences and consider how these might influence their learning and development, although a few students found the concept of the HC hard to grasp.

Discussion

Revealing and naming the hidden curriculum can make students aware of its existence and understand its potential impact. The hidden curriculum may also be a useful tool for triggering debate about issues such as power, patient centredness, personal resilience and career stereotypes in medicine. Supporting students to think critically about HC experiences may empower them to make active choices about which messages to take on board.

The hidden curriculum can have a powerful influence on the professional development of students
Transcriptional analysis of the IL‐33 receptor suppression of tumourigenicity 2 and its effects on canine Type 2 T helper cells: a preliminary study
Authors: Asahina Ryota , Nishida Hidetaka , Kamishina Hiroaki , Maeda Sadatoshi
Published: November 2017

Background

Interleukin (IL)‐33 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of canine atopic dermatitis, a Type 2 T helper cell (Th2)‐associated disease. In humans, IL‐33 mediates its biological effects through the receptor suppression of tumourigenicity 2 (ST2), which is preferentially expressed on Th2 cells. The effects of IL‐33 on canine Th2 cells are unclear.

Hypothesis/Objectives

ST2 may be preferentially expressed on canine Th2 cells; IL‐33 may induce the transcription of Th2 cytokines from these cells.

Animals

Three healthy dogs were used.

Methods

The transcription level of st2 was quantified in helper T cells, cytotoxic T cells and Th2 cells isolated from healthy dogs. The transcription levels of Th2 cytokines including il‐4, il‐5, il‐13 and il‐31 were quantified in Th2 cells stimulated with recombinant canine (rc) IL‐33 and/or recombinant human (rh) IL‐2.

Results

Transcription of st2 was the strongest in Th2 cells. Th2 cells also transcribed the genes for il‐5 and il‐13 after being stimulated with rcIL‐33 and rhIL‐2.

Conclusions and clinical importance

These results indicate that canine Th2 cells activated by IL‐33 enhance Th2‐mediated inflammation through the production of IL‐5 and IL‐13.
Outcomes of cellophane banding or percutaneous transvenous coil embolization of canine intrahepatic portosystemic shunts
Authors: Case J. Brad , Marvel Sarah J. , Stiles Mandy C. , Maisenbacher Herb W. , Toskich Beau B. , Smeak Dan D. , Monnet Eric L.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To compare clinical outcomes of dogs with congenital intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (CIHPSS) treated with cellophane banding (CB) or percutaneous transvenous coil embolization (PTCE).

Study Design

Dual‐institutional retrospective study.

Animals

Fifty‐eight dogs with CIHPSS (2001‐2016).

Methods

Medical records of dogs undergoing CB or PTCE for CIHPSS were reviewed for signalment, body weight, hematologic values, shunt location, attenuation technique, procedure time, duration of hospitalization, complications, date of follow‐up, and cause of death if applicable.

Results

Thirty‐one dogs underwent CB, and 27 dogs underwent PTCE. No differences were detected between groups for gender, preoperative packed cell volume, albumin, cholesterol, or bile acids. Body weight was greater in dogs treated via PTCE. Shunts differed in location because dogs undergoing CB were diagnosed with more left divisional shunts compared with PTCE dogs. Procedural duration of CB and PTCE did not differ. Dogs treated with CB sustained more minor postoperative complications and were hospitalized longer than dogs treated with PTCE. The 1‐year and 2‐year survival rates were 89% for the CB group and 87% and 80% for the PTCE group, respectively. The proportion surviving at 5 years was 75% and 80% for CB dogs and PTCE dogs, respectively.

Conclusion

CB and PTCE are associated with similar short‐term and intermediate‐term survival. PTCE is a minimally invasive alternative to CB via celiotomy. However, CB allows concurrent abdominal procedures requiring the same approach.
Complications and short‐term outcomes associated with single‐port laparoscopic splenectomy in dogs
Authors: Mayhew Philipp D. , Sutton Jessie S. , Singh Ameet , Runge Jeffrey J. , Case J. Brad , Griffin Maureen A. , Giuffrida Michelle A.
Published: November 2017

Objective

To describe a technique and report complications and outcome for single‐port laparoscopic splenectomy in dogs.

Study Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

Twenty‐two client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Medical records of dogs that underwent single‐port laparoscopic splenectomy at 4 veterinary teaching hospitals were evaluated. Commercially available single‐port devices were used in all dogs. In all cases, a vessel‐sealing device was used to perform a hilar splenectomy. After the procedure was completed, the spleen was exteriorized through the single‐port device incision or placed into a specimen retrieval device; enlargement of the incision was required in some cases.

Results

Median weight of dogs was 9.9 kg (interquartile range [IQR], 7.0‐26.0). Splenectomy was performed because of splenic mass (n = 14), diffuse splenic disease (n = 4), or as adjunctive treatment for management of immune‐mediated disease (n = 4). In cases with splenic masses, median maximal diameter of the largest splenic mass was 2.0 cm (IQR, 1.3‐2.5). In 6 of 22 cases, mild splenic capsular bleeding occurred during the procedure. Conversion occurred in 6 of 22 cases to either a laparoscopic‐assisted approach (n = 5) or an open celiotomy (n = 1). Reasons for conversion included large splenic dimensions (n = 3), adhesion formation (n = 1) or poor visualization resulting from abundant intra‐abdominal fat (n = 1) or hemorrhage (n = 1). Heavier body weight was significantly associated with conversion (odds ratio, 1.62; 95% confidence interval, 1.05‐2.51), but body condition score, having a splenic mass, splenic mass size, and surgical time were not.

Conclusion

Single‐port laparoscopic splenectomy is an effective approach for elective splenectomy in dogs. The technique may be well suited to smaller dogs with modestly sized splenic masses or diffuse splenic disease.
Experimental Residual Stress and Geometric Imperfections on Pressure Hull Instability Analysis
Authors: Franquetto Paulo Rogério , Neto Miguel Mattar
Published: November 2017

Residual stress produced by cold bending and welding processes contributes to the collapse pressure reduction of submarine hulls. Usually, the residual stress profiles used to quantify this reduction are obtained from analytical or numerical models. However, such models have limitations to take into account cold bending and welding in the same time. Hence, experimental analyses are necessary to better quantify the residual stress. Based on that, this paper presents residual stress experimental results obtained at six points on a pressure hull prototype using X-ray portable system. Based on these results, the residual stress profiles through the material thickness were estimated for each region on the frame by using a polynomial approximation. These profiles were introduced in a nonlinear finite element numerical model to study the collapse pressure reduction. Experimental results available on the literature were also used. Material and geometric nonlinearities were considered in the analysis. The results show that the residual stress reduces the collapse pressure as part of the frame web has stress level higher than the material yield. The preload introduced by the residual stress plays a less important role for the collapse pressure reduction at higher out-of-roundness and out-of-straightness defect amplitudes.
Wind Effect Modeling and Analysis for Estimation of Photovoltaic Module Temperature
Authors: Magare Dhiraj , Sastry Oruganti , Gupta Rajesh , Bora Birinchi , Singh Yogesh , Mohammed Humaid
Published: November 2017

The performance of photovoltaic (PV) modules in outdoor field conditions is adversely affected by the rise in module operating temperature. Wind flow around the module affects its temperature significantly, which ultimately influences the module output power. In this paper, a new approach has been presented, for module temperature estimation of different technology PV modules (amorphous Si, hetero-junction with intrinsic thin-layer (HIT) and multicrystalline Si) installed at the site of National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), India. The model based on presented approach incorporates the effect of wind speed along with wind direction, while considering in-plane irradiance, ambient temperature, and the module efficiency parameters. For all the technology modules, results have been analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively under different wind situations. Qualitative analysis based on the trend of module temperature variation under different wind speed and wind direction along with irradiance and ambient temperature has been presented in detail from experimental data. Quantitative results obtained from presented model showed good agreement with the experimentally measured data for different technology modules. The model based on presented approach showed marked improvement in results with high consistency, in comparison with other models analyzed for different technology modules installed at the site. The improvement was very significant in case of multicrystalline Si technology modules, which is most commonly used and highly temperature sensitive technology. Presented work can be used for estimating the effect of wind on different technology PV modules and for prediction of module temperature, which affects the performance and reliability of PV modules.
Case Study of a Female Competitive Mountain Bike Racer With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Fasczewski Kimberly , Gill Diane
Published: November 2017

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) affects 2.1 million people world-wide. There is no cure but an expanding body of research suggests that physical activity can have a positive impact on the symptoms of MS. This case study was designed as a view into the life experiences of one woman’s journey with MS as a competitive athlete, focusing on how psychological skills aid her in conquering her challenges. The participant was a 51-year old competitive mountain bike racer who was diagnosed with MS as a teenager. A postpositivist approach using a series of in-depth, conversational interviews explored the role athletics has played in her life and specifically in helping her live with MS. The interviews focused on the psychological skills the participant used to deal with her sport and MS. Results suggest that resilience, resulting from self-efficacy, goal setting, and a positive outlook, is the key to her success, and that her participation in athletics strengthens those positive characteristics. Findings may be helpful to both sport psychology and medical professionals who work with individuals with MS.
Production and Biotechnological Potential of Extracellular Polymeric Substances from Sponge-Associated Antarctic Bacteria
Authors: Caruso Consolazione , Rizzo Carmen , Mangano Santina , Poli Annarita , Di Donato Paola , Finore Ilaria , Nicolaus Barbara , Di Marco Gaetano , Michaud Luigi , Lo Giudice Angelina
Published: November 2017

Four sponge-associated Antarctic bacteria (i.e.,
Winogradskyella
sp. strains CAL384 and CAL396,
Colwellia
sp. strain GW185, and
Shewanella
sp. strain CAL606) were selected for the highly mucous appearance of their colonies on agar plates. The production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) was enhanced by a step-by-step approach, varying the carbon source, substrate and NaCl concentrations, temperature, and pH. The EPSs produced under optimal conditions were chemically characterized, resulting in a moderate carbohydrate content (range, 15 to 28%) and the presence of proteins (range, 3 to 24%) and uronic acids (range, 3.2 to 11.9%). Chemical hydrolysis of the carbohydrate portion revealed galactose, glucose, galactosamine, and mannose as the principal constituents. The potential biotechnological applications of the EPSs were also investigated. The high protein content in the EPSs from
Winogradskyella
sp. CAL384 was probably responsible for the excellent emulsifying activity toward tested hydrocarbons, with a stable emulsification index (E
24
) higher than those recorded for synthetic surfactants. All the EPSs tested in this work improved the freeze-thaw survival ratio of the isolates, suggesting that they may be exploited as cryoprotection agents. The addition of a sugar in the culture medium, by stimulating EPS production, also allowed isolates to grow in the presence of higher concentrations of mercury and cadmium. This finding was probably dependent on the presence of uronic acids and sulfate groups, which can act as ligands for cations, in the extracted EPSs.

IMPORTANCE
To date, biological matrices have never been employed for the investigation of EPS production by Antarctic psychrotolerant marine bacteria. The biotechnological potential of extracellular polymeric substances produced by Antarctic bacteria is very broad and comprises many advantages, due to their biodegradability, high selectivity, and specific action compared to synthetic molecules. Here, several interesting EPS properties have been highlighted, such as emulsifying activity, cryoprotection, biofilm formation, and heavy metal chelation, suggesting their potential applications in cosmetic, environmental, and food biotechnological fields as valid alternatives to the commercial polymers currently used.
Just When We Thought We Knew Everything We Needed To Know about Zn Acquisition and Bacterial Pathogenesis
Authors: Roop R. Martin
Published: November 2017

It is well established that high-affinity zinc importers play essential roles in bacterial virulence, but the studies described by Moreau et al. in this issue (G. B. Moreau, A. Qin, and B. J. Mann, J Bacteriol 200:e00587-17, 2018,
https://doi.org/10.1128/JB.00587-17
) demonstrate that we probably still have much to learn about how these transporters function and how the genes that encode them are regulated in different bacterial pathogens.