bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 11‐day compressed overload and taper induces larger physiological improvements than a normal taper in elite cyclists
Authors: Rønnestad Bent R. , Vikmoen Olav
Published: August 2019

Endurance athletes usually achieve performance peaking with 2‐4 weeks of overload training followed by 1‐3 weeks of tapering. With a tight competition schedule, this may not be appropriate. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the effect of a compressed variant of the recommended overload and tapering approach (EXP; n = 9, VO2peak = 77 ± 5 mL·min−1·kg−1) with a 11‐day traditional taper that maintained the usual frequency of high‐intensity aerobic interval training (HIT) and reduced the duration of training at lower exercise intensity (TRAD, n = 8, VO2peak = 74 ± 4 mL·min−1·kg−1) on physiological and psychological variables of endurance performance. EXP performed a 6‐day period with daily HIT followed by a 5‐day step taper. Testing was performed before the intervention (pre), on the 7th (post‐1), and on the 11th day of the intervention (post‐2). From pre to post‐2, EXP achieved a larger relative improvement than TRAD in VO2peak (4.0 ± 3.7% vs 0.8 ± 1.8%, respectively, P = .041) and the 1‐min peak power output from the VO2peak test (5.0 ± 3.6% vs 0.9 ± 1.5%, respectively, P = .009) and had a tendency toward larger improvement in power output at a blood lactate concentration of 4 mmol∙L−1 (P = .088) and peak isokinetic knee extension (P = .06). The effect size of the relative improvement in the endurance variables revealed a moderate‐to‐large effect of EXP vs TRAD. In conclusion, this study indicates that elite cyclists performing the present 11‐day compressed performance peaking protocol consisting of a 6‐day HIT overload followed by a 5‐day step taper are superior to a 11‐day taper only.
Phosphoproteomic analysis reveals plant DNA damage signalling pathways with a functional role for histone H2AX phosphorylation in plant growth under genotoxic stress
Authors: Waterworth Wanda M. , Wilson Michael , Wang Dapeng , Nuhse Thomas , Warward Stacey , Selley Julian , West Christopher E.
Published: August 2019

DNA damage responses are crucial for plant growth under genotoxic stress. Accumulating evidence indicates that DNA damage responses differ between plant cell types. Here, quantitative shotgun phosphoproteomics provided high‐throughput analysis of the DNA damage response network in callus cells. MS analysis revealed a wide network of highly dynamic changes in the phosphoprotein profile of genotoxin‐treated cells, largely mediated by the ATAXIA TELANGIECTASIA MUTATED (ATM) protein kinase, representing candidate factors that modulate plant growth, development and DNA repair. A C‐terminal dual serine target motif unique to H2AX in the plant lineage showed 171‐fold phosphorylation that was absent in atm mutant lines. The physiological significance of post‐translational DNA damage signalling to plant growth and survival was demonstrated using reverse genetics and complementation studies of h2ax mutants, establishing the functional role of ATM‐mediated histone modification in plant growth under genotoxic stress. Our findings demonstrate the complexity and functional significance of post‐translational DNA damage signalling responses in plants and establish the requirement of H2AX phosphorylation for plant survival under genotoxic stress.
Degradation of phenol using mill scale as a Fenton‐type catalyst
Authors: Salazar‐Arias Ángela M. , Giraldo‐Gómez Gloria I. , Sanabria‐González Nancy R.
Published: August 2019

The oxidation of phenol using mill scale (waste material produced during the hot rolling of steel) as iron source in a type Fenton process was investigated in this work. The mill scale was characterized by XRF, FT‐IR, XRD and SEM. The oxidation tests were carried at 25°C and atmospheric pressure, controlling the pH to 3.7. The phenol conversion and total organic carbon (TOC) removal as a function of catalyst loading (300–1000 mg/L) and phenol concentration (47 and 100 mg/L) were evaluated. The mill scale achieved high conversion of phenol (between 60.8 ± 2.2 and 94.5 ± 2.5%) and mineralization to CO2 (between 38.9 ± 1.2 and 55.6 ± 2.5%) after 4‐h reaction. The mill scale showed a good catalytic performance, even after three cycles of reaction. Therefore, utilizing mill scale as a catalyst of the Fenton process is an alternative to the use of waste in the steel industry.
Reflecting the environmental cost of greenhouse gas emissions from an urban water system in the water price
Authors: Chen Ying‐Chu
Published: August 2019

This study evaluated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from an urban water system in Taiwan using a lifecycle assessment method. The water system of the Taipei region was used as a case study. Both on‐site and off‐site emissions of GHGs were considered. Total GHG emissions from the urban water system were 151,211.3 t CO2‐eq/y in the study period. On‐site GHG emissions from water surfaces and chemical additives contributed 3.1% and 18.3% of total emissions. The reservoir accounted for 1% of total off‐site GHG emissions from electricity consumption; 60.3% was from purification plants and 38.7% from boosting stations. The environmental cost of GHG emissions from the urban water system was calculated as US$0.001 per ton of water, which implies that the water price in Taiwan should be increased to US$0.27/t. This study explored the principle of ‘user pays’ in water pricing by monetizing the environmental cost of GHG emissions.
Early immune mechanisms of neonatal porcine islet xenograft rejection
Authors: Mok Dereck , Black Mazzen , Gupta Nancy , Arefanian Hossein , Tredget Eric , Rayat Gina R.
Published: August 2019

Background

Neonatal pigs have the potential to provide an inexhaustible source of islets for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. However, the immunological barriers to islet xenotransplantation still need to be overcome. A better understanding of the xeno‐specific immune responses that are involved in neonatal porcine islet (NPI) xenotransplant rejection will help to facilitate the identification of new targets for anti‐rejection therapies, and thus enable more specific targeting of the immune cells and molecules involved.

Methods

In this study, we examined the early events of NPI xenograft rejection in the absence of autoimmunity using an immune‐competent B6 mouse transplant model. Immune cells were identified by immunohistochemistry and immune molecules were identified by reverse transcription‐PCR and flow cytometry assays.

Results

Our results demonstrated that early events in NPI xenograft rejection are characterized by initial infiltration of innate immune cells such as macrophages (M1) and neutrophils.

Conclusions

Targeting these cells, which appear early in the rejection process, may provide an opportunity to abort the rejection process prior to activation of T cells. One strategy could be the blockade of chemotactic signals associated with preferential recruitment of immune cells into the graft site. Collectively, our studies demonstrated that early recruitment of immune cells into graft site is controlled by chemotactic activities and suggest a potential target to prevent the early infiltration of immune cells within the graft. Our findings in this study will have significance in improving NPI xenograft acceptance and induce long‐term xenograft survival.
Self-aligned structures by a single-step through-membrane 100-keV electron beam lithography
Authors: Gorelick Sergey , de Marco Alex
Published: August 2019

Patterning of aligned structures on supporting thin membranes is required in many applications, such as fabrication of stacked zone plates and realization of observation windows in nanofluidic channels. Here, the authors present a process flow to fabricate self-aligned structures on both sides of a membrane stack by means of a single-step through-membrane 100-keV electron beam exposure. High energy of the electron beam ensures that the electrons are able to propagate through the membrane stack that is coated with resist on both sides, while the single-step exposure ensures that subsequently etched structures in the supporting silicon nitride membranes are perfectly aligned. Simulations of electron scattering indicate that for micrometer-sized structures the exposed region (containing 90% of the deposited dose) broadening is ∼220 nm for a thick ∼6-μm membrane stack (500 nm of SiO2 sandwiched between two 250 nm-thick SiNx layers, with the membrane stack coated with 1 μm of PMMA resist on each side). This corresponds well with the broadening measured from the imaged cross sections of structures etched into the top and bottom SiNx encapsulating membranes. The broadening can be further optimized by adjusting the process parameters and reducing the thicknesses of the membranes and of the PMMA resist. The relatively small feature-broadening at the bottom of the membrane stack indicates that perfectly aligned submicrometer features are feasible.
Factors affecting the intelligibility of high-intensity-level-based speech
Authors: Xu Danying , Chen Fei , Pan Fan , Zheng Dingchang
Published: August 2019

The present work examined factors affecting the intelligibility of high-intensity-level-based speech. Mandarin sentences were processed to contain only high-intensity segments confined by a 5-dB selected intensity range (SIR), with other segments replaced by noise. The processed stimuli were presented to normal-hearing listeners to recognize. The greatest intensity density occurred in the SIR with an upper boundary 3 dB below the peak intensity level, and this SIR yielded the highest intelligibility score in quiet. The SIR with the upper boundary at the peak intensity level yielded better intelligibility performance under noisy conditions, due largely to the relatively high effective signal-to-noise ratio.
The International Impact of the Active Healthy Kids Global Alliance Physical Activity Report Cards for Children and Youth
Authors: Aubert Salomé , Barnes Joel D. , Forse Megan L. , Turner Evan , González Silvia A. , Kalinowski Jakub , Katzmarzyk Peter T. , Lee Eun-Young , Ocansey Reginald , Reilly John J. , Schranz Natasha , Vanderloo Leigh M. , Tremblay Mark S.
Published: August 2019

Background: In response to growing concerns over high levels of physical inactivity among young people, the Active Healthy Kids Global Alliance developed a series of national Report Cards on physical activity for children and youth to advocate for the promotion of physical activity. This article provides updated evidence of the impact of the Report Cards on powering the movement to get children and youth moving globally. Methods: This assessment was performed using quantitative and qualitative sources of information, including surveys, peer-reviewed publications, e-mails, gray literature, and other sources. Results: Although it is still too early to observe a positive change in physical activity levels among children and youth, an impact on raising awareness and capacity building in the national and international scientific community, disseminating information to the general population and stakeholders, and on powering the movement to get kids moving has been observed. Conclusions: It is hoped that the Report Card activities will initiate a measurable shift in the physical activity levels of children and contribute to achieving the 4 strategic objectives of the World Health Organization Global Action Plan as follows: creating an active society, creating active environments, creating active lives, and creating active systems.
Genotype-by-environment interactions inferred from genetic effects on phenotypic variability in the UK Biobank
Authors: Wang Huanwei , Zhang Futao , Zeng Jian , Wu Yang , Kemper Kathryn E. , Xue Angli , Zhang Min , Powell Joseph E. , Goddard Michael E. , Wray Naomi R. , Visscher Peter M. , McRae Allan F. , Yang Jian
Published: August 2019

We show that genotype-by-environment interaction can be inferred from an analysis without environmental data in a large sample.
Deep learning on butterfly phenotypes tests evolution’s oldest mathematical model
Authors: Hoyal Cuthill Jennifer F. , Guttenberg Nicholas , Ledger Sophie , Crowther Robyn , Huertas Blanca
Published: August 2019

Artificial intelligence validates evolution’s oldest mathematical model by learning about butterfly mimicry.
The histone code reader PHD finger protein 7 controls sex-linked disparities in gene expression and malignancy in
Drosophila
Authors: Molnar Cristina , Heinen Jan Peter , Reina Jose , Llamazares Salud , Palumbo Emilio , Breschi Alessandra , Gay Marina , Villarreal Laura , Vilaseca Marta , Pollarolo Giulia , Gonzalez Cayetano
Published: August 2019

Drosophila
l(3)mbt malignant brain tumors present sexual dimorphism.
Noninvasive monitoring of chronic kidney disease using pH and perfusion imaging
Authors: Pavuluri KowsalyaDevi , Manoli Irini , Pass Alexandra , Li Yuguo , Vernon Hilary J. , Venditti Charles P. , McMahon Michael T.
Published: August 2019

We report an alternative strategy for monitoring renal function based on administration of a pH-sensitive MRI contrast agent.
The
MS4A
gene cluster is a key modulator of soluble TREM2 and Alzheimer’s disease risk
Authors: Deming Yuetiva , Filipello Fabia , Cignarella Francesca , Cantoni Claudia , Hsu Simon , Mikesell Robert , Li Zeran , Del-Aguila Jorge L , Dube Umber , Farias Fabiana Geraldo , Bradley Joseph , Budde John , Ibanez Laura , Fernandez Maria Victoria , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Heslegrave Amanda , Johansson Per M , Svensson Johan , Nellgård Bengt , Lleo Alberto , Alcolea Daniel , Clarimon Jordi , Rami Lorena , Molinuevo José Luis , Suárez-Calvet Marc , Morenas-Rodríguez Estrella , Kleinberger Gernot , Ewers Michael , Harari Oscar , Haass Christian , Brett Thomas J , Benitez Bruno A. , Karch Celeste M. , Piccio Laura , Cruchaga Carlos
Published: August 2019

Common variants in the microglia-specific
MS4A
gene cluster modify risk for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease and modulate extracellular soluble TREM2.
Disrupted hippocampal growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1α interaction with dopamine receptor D1 plays a role in Alzheimer′s disease
Authors: Tian Jing , Guo Lan , Sui Shaomei , Driskill Christopher , Phensy Aarron , Wang Qi , Gauba Esha , Zigman Jeffrey M. , Swerdlow Russell H. , Kroener Sven , Du Heng
Published: August 2019

GHSR1α and DRD1 coactivation preserves the integrity of hippocampal synapses in Alzheimer’s disease.
Evaluating strategies to improve rotavirus vaccine impact during the second year of life in Malawi
Authors: Pitzer Virginia E. , Bennett Aisleen , Bar-Zeev Naor , Jere Khuzwayo C. , Lopman Benjamin A. , Lewnard Joseph A. , Parashar Umesh D. , Cunliffe Nigel A.
Published: August 2019

Administering an additional dose of rotavirus vaccine at 9 months of age in Malawi is predicted to lead to only modest improvements in vaccine impact.
MDM2 antagonists overcome intrinsic resistance to CDK4/6 inhibition by inducing p21
Authors: Vilgelm Anna E. , Saleh Nabil , Shattuck-Brandt Rebecca , Riemenschneider Kelsie , Slesur Lauren , Chen Sheau-Chiann , Johnson C. Andrew , Yang Jinming , Blevins Ashlyn , Yan Chi , Johnson Douglas B. , Al-Rohil Rami N. , Halilovic Ensar , Kauffmann Rondi M. , Kelley Mark , Ayers Gregory D. , Richmond Ann
Published: August 2019

CDK4/6 inhibition becomes effective in preclinical models of melanoma when combined with MDM2 antagonism.
Regulatable interleukin-12 gene therapy in patients with recurrent high-grade glioma: Results of a phase 1 trial
Authors: Chiocca E. Antonio , Yu John S. , Lukas Rimas V. , Solomon Isaac H. , Ligon Keith L. , Nakashima Hiroshi , Triggs Daniel A. , Reardon David A. , Wen Patrick , Stopa Brittany M. , Naik Ajay , Rudnick Jeremy , Hu Jethro L. , Kumthekar Priya , Yamini Bakhtiar , Buck Jill Y. , Demars Nathan , Barrett John A. , Gelb Arnold B. , Zhou John , Lebel Francois , Cooper Laurence J. N.
Published: August 2019

An oral small molecule turns on the transcription of human interleukin-12, with biological effects in patients with recurrent high-grade gliomas.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Piperacillin-Tazobactam Extended Infusions in Infants and Children
Authors: Thibault Céline , Lavigne Jean , Litalien Catherine , Kassir Nastya , Théorêt Yves , Autmizguine Julie
Published: August 2019

Piperacillin-tazobactam (TZP) is frequently used to treat severe hospital-acquired infections in children. We performed a single-center, pharmacokinetic (PK) trial of TZP in children ranging in age from 2 months to 6 years from various clinical subpopulations.
Th17 Cells in Helicobacter pylori Infection: a Dichotomy of Help and Harm
Authors: Dixon Beverly R. E. A. , Hossain Rafat , Patel Rachna V. , Algood Holly M. Scott
Published: August 2019

Helicobacter pylori
is a Gram-negative bacterium that infects the gastric epithelia of its human host. Everyone who is colonized with these pathogenic bacteria can develop gastric inflammation, termed gastritis. Additionally, a small proportion of colonized people develop more adverse outcomes, including gastric ulcer disease, gastric adenocarcinoma, or gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma.
Systematic Comparison of Four Methods for Detection of Carbapenemase-Producing
Enterobacterales
Directly from Blood Cultures
Authors: Meier Maria , Hamprecht Axel
Published: August 2019

Early identification of infections caused by carbapenemase-producing
Enterobacterales
(CPE) can help to optimize patient treatment and improve outcome. In this study, protocols for rapid detection of carbapenemase production directly from positive blood cultures were developed applying a concentration and hemolysis step before a test for carbapenemase production was performed.
Genome Sequence and Biochemical Properties of Bifidobacterium longum Strain ICIS-505, Isolated from the Intestine of a Healthy Woman
Authors: Andryuschenko Sergey V. , Ivanova Elena V. , Perunova Natalia B. , Bukharin Oleg V.
Published: August 2019

This report describes the genome sequence of
Bifidobacterium longum
strain ICIS-505, isolated from human feces. The size of the genome was 2,448,844 bp (59.71% G+C content), including 3,751 bp of the crypto-plasmid pBL505. Annotation revealed 2,241 gene sequences, including 2,033 proteins, 7 rRNA genes, 76 tRNA genes, and 4 noncoding RNA genes.
Genome Sequences of 18 Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Outbreak Strains of Serotype O Sublineage Ind2001d from India, 2013 to 2014
Authors: Bertram Miranda R. , Palinski Rachel M. , Ranjan Rajeev , Biswal Jitendra K. , Pauszek Steven J. , Hartwig Ethan J. , Smoliga George R. , Fish Ian H. , Vierra David , Subramaniam Saravanan , Mohapatra Jajati K. , Das Biswajit , Pattnaik Bramhadev , Arzt Jonathan
Published: August 2019

We report the full polyprotein-coding sequences and partial untranslated regions (UTRs) of 18 foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) viruses from 4 outbreaks in India in 2013 and 2014. All strains grouped within the O/ME-SA/Ind2001d sublineage. These genomes update knowledge of FMD virus (FMDV) diversity in South Asia and may contribute to molecular epidemiology studies and vaccine selections.
A rare case of Miller Fisher variant of Guillain-BarréSyndrome (GBS) induced by a checkpoint inhibitor
Authors: McNeill Caitlin Jane , Fehmi Janev , Gladwin James , Price Christopher
Published: August 2019

With the recent development of novel, more potent cancer treatment, in particular, immune ‘checkpoint inhibitors’, cases of neurological immune-related adverse events are on the rise. Although rare, this includes Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS). We present the case of a 68-year-old male who was admitted with sudden onset of worsening neurological symptoms following immunotherapy treatment. These symptoms progressed quickly to respiratory failure requiring intubation and admission to the intensive care unit. He was thoroughly investigated and is believed to have an axonal neuropathy in the form of Miller Fisher Syndrome (MFS) variant of GBS, secondary to immunotherapy treatment. He was initially treated with intravenous immunoglobulin, and later, perhaps more effectively, with high dose steroids which significantly improved his symptoms. This case of checkpoint inhibitor-induced MFS is one of few in the literature and is an important reminder of the potential for new immunotherapeutic agents to cause significant neurotoxic effects. These should be promptly and thoroughly investigated, in particular, as the management of these patients can differ from standard treatments used in these conditions.
Mandibulofacial dysostosis with microcephaly: a syndrome to remember
Authors: Silva Joana Brandão , Soares Diana , Leão Miguel , Santos Helena
Published: August 2019

Mandibulofacial dysostosis with microcephaly (MFDM) is a rare condition that causes abnormalities of the head and face. Other major extracranial malformations may also be found. The authors present a case of an MFDM in a 35 weeks newborn with antenatal growth restriction. The patient required resuscitation at birth and was diagnosed with oesophageal atresia with tracheoesophageal fistula at day 1. At physical examination he presented multiple congenital malformations including prominent forehead, plagiocephaly, low-set ears, malformed auricles, hypertelorism, downward-slanting eyes, micrognathia, everted lower lip, short neck, wide-spaced nipples and inguinal hernia. Imaging investigation showed dysplasia of the inner ear with agenesis of the vestibular–cochlear nerves and global cerebral atrophy. Analysis of the EFTUD2 gene revealed that the patient was a heterozygous carrier of a pathogenic mutation (c.831_832del[p.Lys277Asnsf*7]), which has not been previously described. This case illustrates the challenges faced in diagnosing and treating MFDM patients.
Oculomotor schwannoma causing a progressive complete third-nerve palsy
Authors: Bentley Emily , Ved Ronak , Hayhurst Caroline
Published: August 2019

A 69-year-old woman presented with an 8-month history of diplopia and examination findings consistent with a right third-nerve palsy. Head MRI identified the presence of a 5.8 mm, nodular, isointense lesion in the suprasellar cistern, which demonstrated enhancement with gadolinium contrast. The lesion did not show any evidence of growth over a 3-month follow-up period. These MRI findings, alongside the clinical features, suggest oculomotor nerve schwannoma. Oculomotor schwannomas are a rare cause of third-nerve palsy. The presenting features and management options for oculomotor schwannomas are discussed to provide a framework for the diagnosis and management of these patients.
Renal tubular acidosis as the initial presentation of Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Ho Karen , Dokouhaki Pouneh , McIsaac Mark , Prasad Bhanu
Published: August 2019

We present a 44-year-old female with an initial presentation with distal renal tubular acidosis (RTA) after she presented with hypokalaemia and normal anion gap acidosis. Three years following the diagnosis, she presented with progressive renal impairment. In the absence of any clinical, biochemical and radiological clues, she underwent a renal biopsy which showed severe tubulitis secondary to lymphocytic infiltration. Serological investigations subsequently revealed positive anti-nuclear, anti-Sjögren’s syndrome related antigen A (SS-A), and anti-Sjögren’s syndrome related antigen B (SS-B) antibodies, supporting the diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome. This case is unique in that distal RTA was the presenting clinical manifestation of Sjögren’s syndrome. We hope that a consideration for Sjögren’s syndrome is made in patients with seemingly idiopathic RTA.
Understanding reliever overuse in patients purchasing over-the-counter short-acting beta2agonists: an Australian community pharmacy-based survey
Authors: Azzi Elizabeth A , Kritikos Vicky , Peters Matthew J , Price David B , Srour Pamela , Cvetkovski Biljana , Bosnic-Anticevich Sinthia
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Overuse of asthma relievers is associated with significant adverse consequences. This study aimed to better understand the population purchasing and using short-acting beta agonists (SABA) over the counter (OTC); and compare the demographic, clinical and behavioural characteristics of those who overuse SABA with those who do not.

Design and setting

Real-world cross-sectional observational study in community pharmacy.

Participants

Of 412 participants ≥16 years requesting SABA OTC, 289 were SABA overusers (used SABA more than twice per week in the past 4 weeks).

Main outcome measure

Reliever use, Global Initiative for Asthma-defined control, healthcare utilisation, patterns of preventer use.

Results

70.1% of participants were classified as SABA overusers, that is, reporting SABA use more than twice a week within the last 4 weeks, 73.6% reported not using a preventer daily and only 81.6% reported a doctor diagnosis of asthma. SABA overusers were more likely to have moderate-severe nasal symptoms (80.8% vs 63.0%, p<0.001) and a diagnosis of depression (11.1% vs 5.7%, p<0.001), when compared with SABA non-overusers. A higher proportion of SABA overusers had uncontrolled asthma (59.0% vs 15.4%, p<0.001), were more likely to use oral corticosteroids to manage worsening asthma symptoms (26.2% vs 13.5%, p<0.01) and visit the doctor for their asthma in the past 12 months (74.5% vs 62.5%, p<0.01), when compared to SABA non-overusers.

Conclusions

This study uncovers a hidden population of people who can only be identified in pharmacy with suboptimal asthma, coexisting rhinitis, poor preventer adherence and, in some cases, no asthma diagnosis.
Self-identified sexual orientations and high-risk sexual behaviours among Chinese youth
Authors: Liu Yuning , Yang Minhui , Zhao Chunshan , Tan Shihui , Tang Kun
Published: August 2019

Purpose

High-risk sexual behaviour is a factor affecting the health of sexual minority students, yet few related studies have been completed among Chinese students. This article explores the distribution of sexual minority groups and its association with high-risk sexual behaviours and symptoms of sexually transmitted infections(STIs) among Chinese college students.

Methods

An internet-based questionnaire was applied, and a sample of 17 966 surveys from 130 Chinese colleges was collected. Based on their self-reports, participants were classified into the following groups: homosexual male or female, heterosexual, bisexual, and sexual orientation unknown. High-risk sexual behaviours were defined as having sexual intercourse before the age of 18 years, having one's sexual debut with a non-regular partner, having had more than four sexual partners before investigation, and having mostly had sexual intercourse without using condoms. Logistic regression models were constructed to analyse the associations.

Results

The proportions of the homosexual males and females, and the bisexual groups were 1.62%, 0.88% and 5.07%, respectively. Homosexual males were more likely to have their sexual debut with a non-regular partner (OR 4.79, 95% CI 3.38 to 6.78), having more than four sexual partners (OR 5.81, 95% CI 4.06 to 8.32), having their sexual debut before the age of 18 years (OR 1.92, 95% CI 1.34 to 2.76), and not using condoms for most episodes of sexual intercourse (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.00 to 2.17). Similar associations also existed among homosexual females. A positive association between sexual orientation and having symptoms of STIs (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.02 to 2.18) was found among homosexual males.

Conclusions

Sexual minority groups among Chinese college students had a greater risk of engaging in high-risk sexual behaviours and having STI symptoms. Future studies and interventions should focus on this population.
Utilisation of second-trimester spontaneous and induced abortion services in public hospitals in Mexico, 2007–2015
Authors: Alexander Lily T , Fuentes-Rivera Evelyn , Saavedra-Avendaño Biani , Schiavon Raffaela , Maldonado Rueda Noe , Hernández Bernardo , Drake Alison L , Darney Blair G
Published: August 2019

Background

Data on utilisation of in-facility second-trimester abortion services are sparse. We describe temporal and geographical trends in utilisation of in-facility second-trimester abortion services across Mexico.

Methods

We used 2007–2015 data from Mexico’s Automated Hospital Discharge System (SAEH) to identify second-trimester abortive events (ICD O02-O08) in public hospitals across Mexico’s 32 states. We described utilisation, calculated rates using population data, and used logistic regression to identify woman- and state-level factors (municipality-level marginalisation, state-level abortion law) associated with utilisation of second-trimester versus first-trimester services.

Results

We identified 145 956 second-trimester abortions, or 13.4% of total documented hospitalizations for abortion between 2007 to 2015. The annual utilisation rate of second-trimester abortion remained constant, between 0.5 to 0.6 per 1000 women aged 15–44 years. Women living in highly marginalised municipalities had 1.43 higher odds of utilising abortions services in their second versus their first trimester, when compared with women in municipalities with low marginalisation (95% CI 1.18 to 1.73). Living in a state with a health or fetal anomaly exception to abortion restrictions was not associated with higher utilisation of second-trimester abortion services.

Conclusions

Our results suggest there is a need for all types of second-trimester abortion services in Mexico. To improve health outcomes for Mexican women, especially the most vulnerable, access to safe second-trimester abortion services must be ensured through the implementation of current legal exceptions and renewed attention to the training of healthcare providers.
Alcohol care teams: where are we now?
Authors: Moriarty Kieran John
Published: August 2019

Alcohol consumption affects the risks of approximately 230 three-digit disease and injury codes in the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems-10th Revision. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals comprise 17 challenging goals with 169 targets, which the 193 Member States aim to achieve by 2030. Action to reduce the harmful use of alcohol, especially addressing global health inequalities, will contribute to achieving many of the health-related goals and targets. Alcohol care teams, mainly developed in acute UK hospitals, reduce acute hospital admissions, readmissions and mortality, improve the quality and efficiency of alcohol care, and have 11 key evidence-based, cost-effective and aspirational components. A clinician-led, multidisciplinary team, with integrated alcohol treatment pathways across primary, secondary and community care, coordinated alcohol policies for emergency departments and acute medical units, a 7-day alcohol specialist nurse service, addiction and liaison psychiatry services, an alcohol assertive outreach team, and consultant hepatologists and gastroenterologists with liver disease expertise facilitate collaborative, multidisciplinary, person-centred care. Quality metrics, national indicators, audit, workforce planning, training and accreditation support research and education of the public and healthcare professionals. Hospitals should collaborate with local authorities, public health, clinical commissioning groups, patients and key stakeholders to develop and disseminate cost-effective prevention and treatment strategies. Globally, alcohol care teams can support the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and should be advocated and implemented through the WHO global alcohol strategy. This requires collaborative care planning by key stakeholders, a skilled workforce, targeted financial resources and dedicated political commitment.
Long-read sequencing identified repeat expansions in the 5′UTR of theNOTCH2NLCgene from Chinese patients with neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease
Authors: Deng Jianwen , Gu Muliang , Miao Yu , Yao Sheng , Zhu Min , Fang Pu , Yu Xuefan , Li Pidong , Su Yanan , Huang Jian , Zhang Jun , Yu Jiaxi , Li Fan , Bai Jing , Sun Wei , Huang Yining , Yuan Yun , Hong Daojun , Wang Zhaoxia
Published: August 2019

Background

Neuronal intranuclear inclusion disease (NIID) is a heterogenous neurodegenerative disorder named after its pathological features. It has long been considered a disease of genetic origin. Recently, the GGC repeated expansion in the 5′-untranslated region (5′UTR) of theNOTCH2NLCgene has been found in adult-onset NIID in Japanese individuals. This study was aimed to investigate the causative mutations of NIID in Chinese patients.

Methods

Fifteen patients with NIID were identified from five academic neurological centres. Biopsied skin samples were analysed by histological staining, immunostaining and electron microscopic observation. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and long-read sequencing (LRS) were initially performed in three patients with NIID. Repeat-primed PCR was conducted to confirm the genetic variations in the three patients and the other 12 cases.

Results

Our patients included 14 adult-onset patients and 1 juvenile-onset patient characterised by degeneration of multiple nervous systems. All patients were identified with intranuclear inclusions in the nuclei of fibroblasts, fat cells and ductal epithelial cells of sweat glands. The WGS failed to find any likely pathogenic variations for NIID. The LRS successfully identified that three patients with adult-onset NIID showed abnormalities of GGC expansion in 5′UTR of theNOTCH2NLCgene. The GGC repeated expansion was further confirmed by repeat-primed PCR in seven familial cases and eight sporadic cases.

Conclusion

Our findings provided evidence that confirmed the GGC repeated expansion in the 5′UTR of theNOTCH2NLCgene is associated with the pathogenesis of NIID. Additionally, the GGC expansion was not only responsible for adult-onset patients, but also responsible for juvenile-onset patients.
Mechanisms and kinetics of initial pyrolysis and combustion reactions of 1,1-diamino-2,2-dinitroethylene from density functional tight-binding molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Xiang Dong , Zhu Weihua
Published: August 2019

The density functional tight-binding molecular dynamics approach was used to study the mechanisms and kinetics of initial pyrolysis and combustion reactions of isolated and multi-molecular FOX-7. Based on the thermal cleavage of bridge bonds, the pyrolysis process of FOX-7 can be divided into three stages. However, the combustion process can be divided into five decomposition stages, which is much more complex than the pyrolysis reactions. The vibrations in the mean temperature contain nodes signifying the formation of new products and thereby the transitions between the various stages in the pyrolysis and combustion processes. Activation energy and pre-exponential factor for the pyrolysis and combustion reactions of FOX-7 were obtained from the kinetic analysis. It is found that the activation energy of its pyrolysis and combustion reactions are very low, making both take place fast. Our simulations provide the first atomic-level look at the full dynamics of the complicated pyrolysis and combustion process of FOX-7.
Paleomagnetism of the native copper mineralization, Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan
Authors: Symons D.T.A. , Kawasaki K.
Published: August 2019

The age and genesis of Michigan’s world-class native copper deposits are poorly constrained. The copper is hosted by basaltic flow tops and conglomeratic interbeds of the 1095 ± 2 Ma Keweenawan Portage Lake Formation. Progressive thermal demagnetization isolates stable hematite remanent magnetization components at 28 paleomagnetic sites. Paleomagnetic tilt tests show that magnetite in massive flow interiors is primary (1095 ± 2 Ma) and that hematite throughout the formation is syntectonic. The altered cupriferous deposits contain primary ∼1095 Ma and secondary ∼1053 Ma hematite in various proportions. The Caledonia Mine’s basaltic mineralization carries the ∼1053 Ma hematite dominantly whereas the Delaware Mine’s conglomeratic interbed mineralization carries the ∼1095 Ma hematite dominantly. The ∼1095 Ma hematite is attributed mostly to magnetite exsolution during flow extrusion and to weathering oxidation between extrusion events. An infusion of epigenetic hydrothermal fluids emplaced the native copper with additional hematite and polarity self-reversing titanohematite at 1053 ± 7 Ma. Importantly, paleomagnetic evidence supports a 1053 ± 7 Ma age also for the White Pine stratiform sedimentary copper mineralization, for the oxidation of the Oronto Group clastic rocks to red beds, and for the time limits of major tectonic uplift and deformation on the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Paleomagnetism and rock magnetism of East and West Clearwater Lake impact structures
Authors: Gattacceca Jérôme , Zylberman William , Coulter Adam B. , Demory François , Quesnel Yoann , Rochette Pierre , Osinski Gordon R. , Edwige Brenuchon
Published: August 2019

The East and West Cleawater Lake impact structures (Wiyâshâkimî Lake, Québec), ∼26 and 32 km in diameter, respectively, have been proposed to represent an impact doublet. We investigated their paleomagnetism to contribute to this debate. The paleomagnetic directions of the impact melt rocks and impact melt-bearing breccias from the West Clearwater structure are compatible with the radiometric age of 280–290 Ma previously determined for this structure and indicate that the impact occurred during a reverse polarity interval of the geomagnetic field. A similar remagnetization direction is found in the basement within 10 km of the structure center, whereas basement farther away from the center has escaped remagnetization by the impact. Samples for the East Clearwater structure come from two holes drilled in 1963 and 1964. Unfortunately, the drill hole through the melt rocks is tilted by 30° from the vertical with an unknown azimuth. The paleomagnetic inclination of these melt rocks cannot be constrained to better than between −28° and +32°. This is, however, distinct from the inclination of the melt rocks of the West Clearwater Lake impact structure (−27.8° ± 3.7°), suggesting that the two structures do not represent an impact doublet, in agreement with recent radiometric dating. The basement rocks and the melt rocks within 10 km of the center of the West Clearwater Lake impact structure show a magnetic signature of titanohematite that crystallized during postimpact hydrothermal activity under oxidizing conditions. This is not observed in the basement or the melt rocks from the East Clearwater Lake impact structure.
Experimental study on wear life of journal bearings in the rotor system subjected to torque
Authors: Pang Xinyu , Xue Xuanyi , Jin Xiaowu
Published: August 2019

In the rotor system subjected to torque, the lubrication state of the journal bearings will change, which can lead to wear life change of such bearings. Therefore, the experimental study on the wear life prediction of the journal bearings in the rotor system subjected to torque was carried out. An improved Archard model for wear rate prediction was proposed, which can be applied to determine the relationship among speed, torque, and wear of different bearings. The 20 h wear of a single-span rotor system was tested at three speeds and torque. Test results show that the impact of torque on wear is greater than that of speed. The wear life of a bearing can be predicted with determined wear threshold. The 20 h wear was calculated by using the wear data of the rotor test bench in this model and compared with the actual wear. The comparison results indicate that the accuracy is higher than 92%. The torque – wear life curve shows that wear life is logarithmic to torque at a constant speed and significantly affected by changes in the low torque. Given a constant torque, the wear life will decrease logarithmically with the speed increasing.
The synthesis of a hexameric expanded hemiporphyrazine
Authors: Schrage Briana R. , Chanawanno Kullapa , Crandall Laura A. , Ziegler Christopher J.
Published: August 2019

Although the chemistry of expanded porphyrins is well developed, there has been significantly less work on expanded isoindoline based macrocycles such as hemiporphyrazines. In this report we present the synthesis and characterization of a new hexameric expanded hemiporphyrazine which we refer to as hexahemiporphyrazine. The synthesis incorporated bis(6-amino-2-pyridyl)amine as a starting material, which could be produced from 2,6-diaminopyridine using melt reaction conditions. Bis(6-amino-2-pyridyl)amine can adopt a three different conformations, two of which are observed in the free base and protonated form, and the third in the backbone of hexahemiporphyrazine. Reaction of bis(6-amino-2-pyridyl)amine and diiminoisoindoline in the presence of a catalytic amount of BF3 produces the hexihemiporphyrazine macrocycle, which was characterized spectroscopically and by X-ray crystallography. Structure elucidation reveals two inverted pyridine rings in a configuration reminiscent of that seen in hexaphyrin, however hexahemiporphyrazine lacks cross conjugation across the macrocycle.
Supramolecular dimerization of a hexameric hemoprotein via multiple pyrene-pyrene interactions
Authors: Oohora Koji , Hirayama Shota , Mashima Tsuyoshi , Hayashi Takashi
Published: August 2019

Protein assemblies are being investigated as a new-class of biomaterials. A supramolecular assembly of a mutant hexameric tyrosine coordinated hemoprotein (HTHP) modified with a pyrene derivative is described. Cysteine was first introduced as a site-specific reaction point at position V44 which is located at the bottom surface of the cylindrical structure of HTHP. [Formula: see text]-(1-pyrenyl)maleimide was then reacted with the mutant. The modification was confirmed by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, indicating that approximately 90% cysteine residues are attached via the pyrene derivative. Size exclusion chromatography (SEC) measurements for pyrene-attached HTHP include a single peak which elutes earlier than the unmodified HTHP. Further investigation by SEC and dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements indicate the desired size corresponding to the dimer of the hemoprotein hexamers. The multivalent effect of pyrene–pyrene interactions including hydrophobic and [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] stacking interactions appears to be responsible for including formation of the stable dimer of the hexamers. Interestingly, the assembly dissociates to the hexamer by removal of heme. In the case of the apo-form of pyrene-attached HTHP, the pyrene moiety appears to be incorporated into the heme pocket because the modification point is located at the adjacent residue of the Tyr45 coordinating to heme in the holo-form of HTHP. Subsequent addition of heme into the apo-form of pyrene-attached HTHP regenerates the dimer of the hexamers. The present study demonstrates a unique heme-dependent system in which HTHP is assembled to form a dimer of hexamers in the presence of heme and disassembled by removal of heme.
Syn-kinematic strata influence the structural evolution of emergent fold–thrust belts
Authors: Butler Robert W. H.
Published: August 2019

Whether thrusts are ramp-dominated and form imbricate fans or run out onto the syn-orogenic surface, forming ‘thrust-allochthons’, is governed by the activity of secondary ‘upper’ detachments along the syn-orogenic surface, activations of which are inhibited by syn-kinematic sedimentation at the thrust front. In the northern Apennines, where thrust systems are ramp-dominated and form an emergent imbricate fan, syn-kinematic sedimentation was abundant and accumulated ahead and above each thrust. In the southern Apennines, the far-travelled Lagronegro allochthon achieved its high displacements (>65 km) while the foredeep basin received little sediment. The imbricate fan at the front of the main Himalayan arc developed within a foredeep that experienced high rates of syn-kinematic sedimentation. In contrast, further west, the Salt Range Thrust emerged into a distal, weakly developed foredeep with significantly reduced rates of sediment accumulation. Displacements were strongly localized onto this thrust (c. 25 km displacement) which activated an upper detachment along the syn-orogenic surface. It is an arrested thrust-allochthon. Lateral variations into the adjacent, ramp-dominated but still salt-detached, Jhelum fold-belt are marked by increases in syn-kinematic sedimentation. As sedimentation styles can vary in space and time, individual thrusts and thrust systems can evolve from being allochthon prone to imbricate dominated.
Inhibition of osteoclastogenesis by mechanically stimulated osteoblasts is attenuated during estrogen deficiency
Authors: Allison H. , McNamara L. M.
Published: August 2019

Osteoporotic bone loss and fracture have long been regarded to arise upon depletion of circulating estrogen, which increases osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption. Osteoblasts from human osteoporotic patients also display deficient osteogenic responses to mechanical loading. However, while osteoblasts play an important role in regulating osteoclast differentiation, how this relationship is affected by estrogen deficiency is unknown. This study seeks to determine how mechanically stimulated osteoblasts regulate osteoclast differentiation and matrix degradation under estrogen deficiency. Here, we report that osteoblast-induced osteoclast differentiation (indicated by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase, cathepsin K, and nuclear factor of activated T cells, cytoplasmic 1) and matrix degradation were inhibited by estrogen treatment and mechanical loading. However, estrogen-deficient osteoblasts exacerbated osteoclast formation and matrix degradation in conditioned medium and coculture experiments. This was accompanied by higher expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and macrophage colony-stimulating factor, but not osteoprotegerin, by osteoblasts under estrogen deficiency. Interestingly, this response was exacerbated under conditions that block the Rho-Rho-associated protein kinase signaling pathway. This study provides an important, but previously unrecognized, insight into bone loss in postmenopausal osteoporosis, whereby estrogen-deficient osteoblasts fail to produce inhibitory osteoprotegerin after mechanical stimulation but upregulate macrophage colony-stimulating factor and cyclooxygenase-2 expression and, thus, leave osteoclast activity unconstrained.