bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seed traits are pleiotropically regulated by the flowering time gene PERPETUAL FLOWERING 1 (PEP1) in the perennial Arabis alpina
Authors: Hughes Patrick William , Soppe Wim J. J. , Albani Maria C.
Published: February 2019

The life cycles of plants are characterized by two major life history transitions—germination and the initiation of flowering—the timing of which are important determinants of fitness. Unlike annuals, which make the transition from the vegetative to reproductive phase only once, perennials iterate reproduction in successive years. The floral repressor PERPETUAL FLOWERING 1 (PEP1), an ortholog of FLOWERING LOCUS C, in the alpine perennial Arabis alpina ensures the continuation of vegetative growth after flowering and thereby restricts the duration of the flowering episode. We performed greenhouse and garden experiments to compare flowering phenology, fecundity and seed traits between A. alpina accessions that have a functional PEP1 allele and flower seasonally and pep1 mutants and accessions that carry lesions in PEP1 and flower perpetually. In the garden, perpetual genotypes flower asynchronously and show higher winter mortality than seasonal ones. PEP1 also pleiotropically regulates seed dormancy and longevity in a way that is functionally divergent from FLC. Seeds from perpetual genotypes have shallow dormancy and reduced longevity regardless of whether they after‐ripened in plants grown in the greenhouse or in the experimental garden. These results suggest that perpetual genotypes have higher mortality during winter but compensate by showing higher seedling establishment. Differences in seed traits between seasonal and perpetual genotypes are also coupled with differences in hormone sensitivity and expression of genes involved in hormonal pathways. Our study highlights the existence of pleiotropic regulation of seed traits by hub developmental regulators such as PEP1, suggesting that seed and flowering traits in perennial plants might be optimized in a coordinated fashion.
Anisocoria caused by an abscess in the cisterna interpeduncularis in a patient with bacterial meningitis
Authors: Watanabe Toshiyuki Tony , Itaya Sakiko , Kamata Tomoyuki
Published: February 2019

When bacterial meningitis is suspected in an emergency situation, a lumbar puncture is usually performed to obtain a cerebrospinal fluid culture for identifying the causative microorganism. However, in cases in which signs and symptoms of high intracranial pressure are obvious, lumbar puncture is contraindicated unless brain herniation is ruled out. We encountered a case of bacterial meningitis with anisocoria, which we regarded as a sign of high intracranial pressure, and refrained from performing a lumbar puncture. Subsequently, high intracranial pressure and brain herniation were ruled out, and abscess formation in the cisterna interpeduncularis was observed to have caused anisocoria. Thus, when anisocoria is observed in patients with bacterial meningitis, the cause should be established by methods such as magnetic resonance imaging, and only if the cause of anisocoria is obvious and the possibility of high intracranial pressure is low, should diagnostic lumbar puncture be performed.
The American neurogastroenterology and motility society gastroparesis cardinal symptom index‐daily diary (ANMS GCSI‐DD): Psychometric evaluation in patients with idiopathic or diabetic gastroparesis
Authors: Revicki Dennis A. , Speck Rebecca M. , Lavoie Sara , Puelles Jorge , Kuo Braden , Camilleri Michael , Almansa Cristina , Parkman Henry P.
Published: February 2019

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the measurement properties of the American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index‐Daily Diary, a patient‐reported outcome instrument developed to meet US FDA recommendations for a symptom‐based clinical trial endpoint in gastroparesis. The ANMS GCSI‐DD assesses nausea, early satiety, postprandial fullness, and upper abdominal pain on a severity score from none (0) to very severe (4) and number of vomiting episodes during the past 24 hours. The composite score includes the first four symptoms, the core symptom score includes all five symptoms.

Methods

Seventy‐one patients diagnosed with idiopathic or diabetic gastroparesis were recruited for a four‐week observational study. Patients completed the ANMS GCSI‐DD at home between Baseline and Week 4. Statistical analyses included confirmatory factor analysis, item response theory analysis, internal consistency, test‐retest reliability, and construct and known‐groups validity.

Key Results

Unidimensionality for the composite and core symptom scores was supported, and items exhibited good fit. Internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha =0.85 and 0.83) and test‐retest reliability were 0.89 and 0.88, for composite and core symptom scores, respectively. Convergent validity was supported by strong correlations with patient‐reported and clinician measures. Baseline and Week 4 scores differed for three measures used to define disease severity status (P < 0.0001), supporting known‐groups validity.

Conclusions & Inferences

The ANMS GCSI‐DD has excellent reliability and validity, supporting its use to assess symptom‐based endpoints in gastroparesis clinical studies. Further analyses will be conducted using clinical trial data to ascertain treatment responsiveness and define a responder.
Seasonal and drought‐related changes in leaf area profiles depend on height and light environment in an Amazon forest
Authors: Smith Marielle N. , Stark Scott C. , Taylor Tyeen C. , Ferreira Mauricio L. , de Oliveira Eronaldo , Restrepo‐Coupe Natalia , Chen Shuli , Woodcock Tara , dos Santos Darlisson Bentes , Alves Luciana F. , Figueira Michela , de Camargo Plinio B. , de Oliveira Raimundo C. , Aragão Luiz E. O. C. , Falk Donald A. , McMahon Sean M. , Huxman Travis E. , Saleska Scott R.
Published: February 2019

Seasonal dynamics in the vertical distribution of leaf area index (LAI) may impact the seasonality of forest productivity in Amazonian forests. However, until recently, fine‐scale observations critical to revealing ecological mechanisms underlying these changes have been lacking.

To investigate fine‐scale variation in leaf area with seasonality and drought we conducted monthly ground‐based LiDAR surveys over 4 yr at an Amazon forest site. We analysed temporal changes in vertically structured LAI along axes of both canopy height and light environments.

Upper canopy LAI increased during the dry season, whereas lower canopy LAI decreased. The low canopy decrease was driven by highly illuminated leaves of smaller trees in gaps. By contrast, understory LAI increased concurrently with the upper canopy. Hence, tree phenological strategies were stratified by height and light environments. Trends were amplified during a 2015–2016 severe El Niño drought.

Leaf area low in the canopy exhibited behaviour consistent with water limitation. Leaf loss from short trees in high light during drought may be associated with strategies to tolerate limited access to deep soil water and stressful leaf environments. Vertically and environmentally structured phenological processes suggest a critical role of canopy structural heterogeneity in seasonal changes in Amazon ecosystem function.
Efficacy of very low‐energy diet programs for weight loss: A systematic review with meta‐analysis of intervention studies in children and adolescents with obesity
Authors: Andela Sarah , Burrows Tracy L. , Baur Louise A. , Coyle Daisy H. , Collins Clare E. , Gow Megan L.
Published: February 2019

The objective of this review was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of very low‐energy diet (VLED) programs for weight loss in children and adolescents with obesity. Six electronic databases were searched identifying 24 eligible studies (16 pre‐post studies, four nonrandomized trials, two randomized controlled trials [RCTs], and two chart reviews) published up to October 2018. Studies were in English, implemented a VLED (≤3360 kJF/day [≤800 kcal/day] or <50% estimated energy requirements) in 5‐ to 18‐year‐olds with obesity, and reported at least one weight‐related outcome. Weight‐related outcomes significantly improved postintervention in all studies. Meta‐analysis of 20 studies indicated a mean 10.1 kg (95% confidence interval [CI], 8.7‐11.4 kg, P < 0.001; I2 = 92.3%) weight loss following interventions lasting 3 to 20 weeks. Moderator analysis indicated greater weight loss in adolescent‐only studies (10‐18 years) and formulated meal replacement interventions and inpatient settings. Meta‐analysis of seven studies reporting weight at follow‐up (5‐14.5 months from baseline) indicated 5.3 kg mean weight loss (CI, 2.5‐8.0 kg, P < 0.001; I2 = 50.6%). Details of adverse events were limited. VLED programs are effective for treating children and adolescents with obesity. However, conclusions on their safety cannot be drawn from the existing literature at this time. Future studies should include long‐term follow‐up with ongoing support and comprehensive monitoring of all adverse events.
Zoledronate treatment duration is linked to bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw prevalence in rice rats with generalized periodontitis
Authors: Messer Jonathan G. , Jiron Jessica M. , Mendieta Calle Jorge L. , Castillo Evelyn J. , Israel Ronnie , Phillips Ean G. , Yarrow Joshua F. , Van Poznak Catherine , Kesavalu Lakshmyya , Kimmel Donald B. , Aguirre J. Ignacio
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To determine the extent that zoledronate (ZOL) dose and duration is associated with bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) prevalence in rice rats with generalized periodontitis (PD), characterize structural and tissue‐level features of BRONJ‐like lesions in this model, and examine the specific anti‐resorptive role of ZOL in BRONJ.

Materials and Methods

Rice rats (n = 228) consumed high sucrose‐casein diet to enhance generalized PD. Groups of rats received 0, 8, 20, 50 or 125 µg/kg IV ZOL/4 weeks encompassing osteoporosis and oncology ZOL doses. Rats from each dose group (n = 9–16) were necropsied after 12, 18, 24 and 30 weeks of treatment. BRONJ‐like lesion prevalence and tissue‐level features were assessed grossly, histopathologically and by MicroCT. ZOL bone turnover effects were assessed by femoral peripheral quantitative computed tomography, serum bone turnover marker ELISAs and osteoclast immunolabelling.

Results

Prevalence of BRONJ‐like lesions was significantly associated with (a) ZOL treatment duration, but plateaued at the lowest oncologic dose, and (b) there was a similar dose‐related plateau in the systemic anti‐resorptive effect of ZOL. ZOL and BRONJ‐like lesions also altered the structural and tissue‐level features of the jaw.

Conclusion

The relationship between BRONJ‐like lesion prevalence and ZOL dose and duration varies depending on the co‐ or pre‐existing oral risk factor. At clinically relevant doses of ZOL, BRONJ‐like lesions are associated with anti‐resorptive activity.
DIET AND ENVIRONMENT IN SOUTH‐EASTERN IBERIA DURING THE BRONZE AGE, BASED ON ISOTOPE ANALYSIS OF HUMAN REMAINS
Authors: Molina‐González Fernando , Nocete‐Calvo Francisco , Delgado‐Huertas Antonio , Cámara‐Serrano Juan Antonio , Martínez‐Sánchez Rafael M. , Jiménez‐Brobéil Sylvia , Miranda‐León Mª. Teresa , Riquelme‐Cantal José Antonio , Spanedda Liliana , Pérez‐Bareas Cristóbal , Lizcano‐Prestel Rafael , Nieto‐Liñán José Miguel , Nájera‐Colino Trinidad , Granados‐Torres Arsenio , Carrión‐Méndez Francisco
Published: February 2019

A large sample of human bones from a series of archaeological sites in the south‐eastern Iberian Peninsula was selected for δ13C and δ15N stable isotope analysis. Except for some contrast samples, the remains date from the first half of the second millennium cal BC and are ascribed to the Argar Culture, which developed during the Bronze Age in south‐eastern Iberia. Most authors have considered that this region reached a high degree of social hierarchical organization at this time, as demonstrated by the funerary record, both with regard to the grave goods and to the evidence of physical effort and diseases on the human remains. Results of the isotope analysis revealed the existence of differences among the settlements studied, as well as differences over time within every settlement and among the various individuals tested. Some variances can be assigned to social classes/status and others are linked to chronological factors. In particular, changes in δ13C can be explained by the increasing aridity of the first half of the second millennium cal BC, although other causes can be put forward too.
Ultrasound‐Guided Cervical Nerve Root Block for the Treatment of Acute Cervical Herpes Zoster: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Study
Authors: Zheng Shuyue , Li Xiuhua , Yang Xiaohui , He Liangliang , Xue Yanyan , Yang Zhanmin
Published: February 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound‐guided cervical nerve root block (CRB) on acute pain and its preventive effects on post‐herpetic neuralgia (PHN) in patients with cervical herpes zoster (HZ).

Methods

140 recruited participants were randomized 1:1 to receive ultrasound‐guided CRB with either mixed drug liquid (treatment group) or similar looking placebo (placebo group). All patients received a 7‐day course of oral antiviral treatment, pregabalin, and analgesics as needed. The primary efficacy was assessed on the basis of HZ burden of illness (HZ‐BOI) scores over 30 days (BOI‐30AUC). Secondary outcomes included HZ‐BOI scores through 30 to 90 days (BOI‐30‐90AUC) and 90 to 180 days (BOI‐90‐180AUC), quality of life (QoL) outcomes, concomitant analgesic consumption, and the incidence of PHN. Adverse events were recorded to evaluate safety.

Results

The BOI‐30AUC values were 92.55 and 112.72 for the treatment and placebo groups, respectively (P < 0.01). Both the BOI‐30‐90AUC and BOI‐90‐180AUC in the treatment group were lower than those in the placebo group (P < 0.01). The incidence of PHN at 90 days was significantly less than that at 180 days in the treatment group (P = 0.036). A better improvement in QoL was found in the treatment group (P < 0.05). There was a greater decrease in analgesic use in the treatment group as compared to the placebo group (P < 0.05). No serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

Ultrasound‐guided CRB represented an early intervention and preventive strategy to reduce the BOI due to acute HZ in the cervical dermatome region, and might be feasible to reduce the incidence of PHN.
Metacognitive improvement and symptom change in a 3‐month treatment for borderline personality disorder
Authors: Maillard Pauline , Dimaggio Giancarlo , Berthoud Laurent , de Roten Yves , Despland Jean‐Nicolas , Kramer Ueli
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Recognizing and reflecting on one's own and other people's mental states represent a major difficulty for patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Only recently have studies begun exploring whether these capacities increase with successful therapies and if such an improvement is linked with outcome. The present study investigated whether metacognition would improve and if its improvement was related with symptom change in BPD patients.

Design

The transcripts from the first and the penultimate session of a ten‐session version of good psychiatric management were analysed with the MAS‐R scale in a N = 37 BPD sample. Patients, selected from a previously published RCT (Kramer et al., 2014), were assigned either to the good psychiatric management treatment or to the same treatment with the addition of the Motive‐Oriented Therapeutic Relationship (Caspar, 2007), a form of therapeutic relationship based on an individualized case formulation. Symptoms were assessed with the OQ‐45.

Results

Findings partially support the hypotheses. First, improvement in capacities to understand others’ mind, to take a critical distance from one's own rigid and maladaptive beliefs, and to use behavioural and attentional strategies to face adversities is found in both treatment groups. Controlling for marital status, only the ability to differentiate between reality and representations remains significant. Second, no link between metacognitive change and symptom change during treatment is found. However, a link is observed between the increase in metacognition and symptom reduction at 6‐month follow‐up.

Conclusions

Results invite to further investigate the role of metacognition in therapy change through different modalities and in longer‐term treatments.

Practitioner points

The development of metacognitive processes and their links with symptom change were examined during a short‐term treatment in 37 borderline patients

Improvement was found in capacities to understand others’ mind, to take a critical distance from own rigid and maladaptive beliefs, and to use behavioural and attentional strategies even in a short‐term treatment

Controlling for marital status, only the ability to take a critical distance from representations remained significant

A link was observed between increase in metacognition and symptom reduction at 6‐month follow‐up

Understanding and tailoring interventions to specific metacognitive difficulties could be associated with symptom change during treatment for BPD patients.
Melanoma central nervous system metastases: An update to approaches, challenges, and opportunities
Authors: Eroglu Zeynep , Holmen Sheri L. , Chen Qing , Khushalani Nikhil I. , Amaravadi Ravi , Thomas Reena , Ahmed Kamran A. , Tawbi Hussein , Chandra Sunandana , Markowitz Joseph , Smalley Inna , Liu James K. C. , Chen Yian Ann , Najjar Yana G. , Karreth Florian A. , Abate‐Daga Daniel , Glitza Isabella C. , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Sondak Vernon K. , Bosenberg Marcus , Herlyn Meenhard , Atkins Michael B. , Kluger Harriet , Margolin Kim , Forsyth Peter A. , Davies Michael A. , Smalley Keiran S. M.
Published: February 2019

In February 2018, the Melanoma Research Foundation and the Moffitt Cancer Center hosted the Second Summit on Melanoma Central Nervous System (CNS) Metastases in Tampa, Florida. In this white paper, we outline the current status of basic science, translational, and clinical research into melanoma brain metastasis development and therapeutic management. We further outline the important challenges that remain for the field and the critical barriers that need to be overcome for continued progress to be made in this clinically difficult area.
Non‐invasive differentiation of non‐rejection kidney injury from acute rejection in pediatric renal transplant recipients
Authors: Archdekin Ben , Sharma Atul , Gibson Ian W. , Rush David , Wishart David S. , Blydt‐Hansen Tom D.
Published: February 2019

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a major concern in pediatric kidney transplant recipients, where non‐alloimmune causes must be distinguished from rejection. We sought to identify a urinary metabolite signature associated with non‐rejection kidney injury (NRKI) in pediatric kidney transplant recipients. Urine samples (n = 396) from 60 pediatric transplant participants were obtained at time of kidney biopsy and quantitatively assayed for 133 metabolites by mass spectrometry. Metabolite profiles were analyzed via projection on latent structures discriminant analysis. Mixed‐effects regression identified laboratory and clinical predictors of NRKI and distinguished NRKI from T cell–mediated rejection (CMR), antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR), and mixed CMR/AMR. Urine samples (n = 199) without rejection were split into NRKI (n = 26; ΔSCr ≥25%), pre‐NRKI (n = 35; ΔSCr ≥10% and <25%), and no NRKI (n = 138; ΔSCr <10%) groups. The NRKI discriminant score (dscore) distinguished between NRKI and no NRKI (AUC = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.79‐0.94), confirmed by leave‐one‐out cross‐validation (AUC = 0.79; 95% CI = 0.68‐0.89). The NRKI dscore also distinguished between NRKI and pre‐NRKI (AUC = 0.82; 95% CI = 0.71‐0.93). In a linear mixed‐effects regression model to account for repeated measures, the NRKI dscore was independent of concurrent rejection, but there was a non‐statistical trend for higher dscores with rejection severity. A second exploratory classifier developed to distinguish NRKI from clinical rejection had similar test characteristics (AUC = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.70‐0.92, confirmed by LOOCV). This study demonstrates the potential of a urine metabolite classifier to detect NRKI in pediatric kidney transplant patients and non‐invasively discriminate NRKI from rejection.
Blunted neural response to gains versus losses associated with both risk‐prone and risk‐averse behavior in a clinically diverse sample
Authors: Huggins Ashley A. , Weinberg Anna , Gorka Stephanie M. , Shankman Stewart A.
Published: February 2019

Reduced responsiveness to reward has been associated with both risk‐prone and risk‐averse behavior, common features of externalizing and internalizing psychopathology, respectively. Thus, evidence has suggested a potential quadratic relationship (i.e., inverted U) between reward sensitivity and risk‐taking propensity. Blunted response to reward compared to loss may therefore demonstrate transdiagnostic utility as it relates to different patterns of maladaptive risk behavior. The current study sought to disentangle the relationship between risk and reward in a clinically diverse sample. In a sample of 210 adults (aged 18–30), the RewP (an ERP indexing differentiation between rewards and losses) was measured during a monetary guessing game, and risk‐taking propensity was measured with a behavioral task (i.e., BART) that simulates real‐world risk taking. Participants also completed clinical assessments to assess for lifetime psychopathology. Results indicated that there was no linear association between the RewP and risk‐taking propensity; however, there was a significant quadratic relationship. Thus, a reduced sensitivity to reward receipt was associated with both risk‐prone and risk‐averse behavior. There was also a significant quadratic relationship between the RewP and money won during the BART, indicating that being too risk prone or risk averse is disadvantageous and leads to missed reward. Overall, these findings suggested that blunted neural differentiation between gains and losses may contribute to deficits in effectively weighing reward and loss and result in maladaptive risk‐taking behavior. These findings support continued examination of reward dysfunction dimensionally in order to better characterize behavioral profiles implicated in clinical phenotypes.
Life Course Perspective on Economic Shocks and Income Inequality Through Age‐Period‐Cohort Analysis: Evidence From Finland
Authors: Karonen Esa , Niemelä Mikko
Published: February 2019

Utilizing age‐period‐cohort analysis, this paper examines the development of income distribution across periodic economic fluctuations in relation to cohorts and age groups. The empirical analysis is based on the Finnish Income Distribution Statistics and Household Expenditure Surveys covering the period of 1966–2015. The findings suggest that the period and cohort effects can be identified as the main effects on relative income, while the age effects have no meaningful impact when the control variables are taken into account. This result reveals a connection between the effects of economic shocks and cohort placement on labor market entry. Additionally, absolute income analysis suggests that economic shocks create stagnation points in income development, which are especially detrimental to cohorts who are transitioning into labor markets. Additionally, middle‐income attainment has not changed due to periodic shocks but rather is related to inter‐cohort inequalities and relative income differences, where the baby boomer generation is a clear winner.
Modern and historical tropical cyclone and tsunami deposits at the coast of Myanmar: Implications for their identification and preservation in the geological record
Authors: Brill Dominik , Seeger Katharina , Pint Anna , Reize Felix , Hlaing Kay Thwe , Seeliger Martin , Opitz Stephan , Win Khin Mi Mi , Nyunt Win Thuzar , Aye Nilar , Aung Aung , Kyaw Kyaw , Kraas Frauke , Brückner Helmut
Published: February 2019

The catastrophic storm surge of tropical cyclone Nargis in May 2008 demonstrated Myanmar's exposure to coastal flooding. The investigation of sediments left by tropical cyclone Nargis and its predecessors is an important contribution to prepare for the impact of future tropical cyclones and tsunamis in the region, because they may extend the database for long‐term hazard assessment beyond the relatively short instrumental and historical record. This study, for the first time, presents deposits of modern and historical tropical cyclones and tsunamis from the coast of Myanmar. The aim is to establish regional sedimentary characteristics that may help to identify and discriminate cyclones and tsunamis in the geological record, and to document post‐depositional changes due to tropical weathering in the first years after deposition. These findings if used to interpret older deposits will extend the existing instrumental record of flooding events in Myanmar. Evaluating deposits that can be related to specific events, such as the 2006 tropical cyclone Mala and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, indicates similar sedimentary characteristics for both types of sediments. Landward thinning and fining trends, littoral sediment sources and sharp lower contacts allow for the differentiation from underlying deposits, while discrimination between tropical cyclone and tsunami origin is challenging based on the applied methods. The modern analogues also demonstrate a rather low preservation potential of the sand sheets due to carbonate dissolution, formation of organic top soils, and coastal erosion. However, in coastal depressions sand sheets of sufficient thickness (>10 cm) may be preserved where the shoreline is prograding or stable. In the most seaward swale of a beach‐ridge plain at the Rakhine coast, two sand sheets have been identified in addition to the deposits of 2006 tropical cyclone Mala. Based on a combination of optically stimulated luminescence, radiocarbon and 137Cs dating, the younger sand layer is related to 1982 tropical cyclone Gwa, while the older sand layer is most probably the result of an event that took place prior to 1950. Comparison with historical records indicates that the archive is only sensitive to tropical cyclones of category 4 (or higher) with landfall directly in or a few tens of kilometres north of the study area. While the presented tropical cyclone records are restricted to the last 100 years, optically stimulated luminescence ages of the beach ridges indicate that the swales landward of the one investigated in this study might provide tropical cyclone information for at least the past 700 years.
Macro‐Level Research on the Effect of Firearms Prevalence on Suicide Rates: A Systematic Review and New Evidence*
Authors: Kleck Gary
Published: February 2019

Objective

To systematically review the methods and findings of previous macro‐level research on the effect of firearms prevalence on suicide rates, and carry out a better state‐level analysis.

Methods

A cross‐sectional model of suicide rates is estimated with weighted least squares, using direct survey measures of gun prevalence.

Results and Conclusion

Prior macro‐level research is afflicted by the use of small samples of large heterogeneous units, invalid measures of gun prevalence, and few controls for confounders. The methodologically soundest prior research indicates that gun prevalence affects rates of gun suicides, but not total suicides. The new analysis likewise finds no significant effect of gun prevalence on total suicide rates.
Assessment of cocoa input needs using soil types and soil spectral analysis
Authors: Singh Kanika , Vasava Hitesh B. , Snoeck Didier , Das Bhabani S. , Yinil David , Field Damien , Sanderson Todd , Fidelis Chris , Majeed Israr , Panigrahi Niranjan
Published: February 2019

In this study, diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) approach was examined for making input recommendations in the smallholder cocoa farms of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Soil samples were collected from four provinces of PNG. Soil samples from four different depths (0–10, 10–30, 30–60 and 60–90 cm) of 32 profiles in each of these site were used to create a database of soil chemical and physical properties. Spectral reflectance values at 1 nm interval covering visible to shortwave‐infrared (350–2,500 nm) were collected for each of these soil samples to develop partial least squares regression models. Soil textural fractions, soil organic carbon contents and available N were well predicted by the DRS approach with R2 values larger than 0.75. Moderate to poor estimation efficiencies were observed for remaining parameters. Nevertheless, the estimated soil attributes and their corresponding measured soil parameters were used as inputs to an input recommendation model of soil diagnosis to create input recommendation for a targeted cocoa yield of 1,000 kg dry cocoa beans ha‐1 Resulting input recommendations were similar for both of these input sources (measured and DRS‐estimated) suggesting that the DRS approach may provide an easy way to create input recommendations.
Effect of polyoma viremia on 3‐year allograft kidney function
Authors: David‐Neto Elias , Agena Fabiana , Silva Ribeiro David Daisa , Paula Flavio Jota de , Camera Pierrotti Ligia Camera , Domingues Fink Maria Cristina , Fonseca de Azevedo Luiz Sergio
Published: February 2019

Background

Polyoma viremia is associated with damage to renal tubular and urothelial cells. This may imply that a certain level of viremia, even cleared thereafter, could be associated with long‐term renal dysfunction.

Methods

We, retrospectively, analyzed 390 first renal transplants adult recipients (≥18 years) who were monitored for BK viremia in the first 12 months and evaluated estimated GFR (MDRD‐4 equation) at 1 month and at the last follow‐up (959 ± 392 days).

Results

One hundred and ninety‐nine patients (51%) developed at least one positive viremia: 105 (53%) low viremia (<104 copies/mL), 36 (18%) high viremia (4 × 104 > viremia ≥ 104 copies/mL) and 58 (15%) viremia (≥4 × 104 copies/mL) consistent with polyoma virus associated nephropathy (PyVAN). Out of these 58 patients, 24 (6%) developed bx‐proven (SV40+) PyVAN and 34(8.7%) presumptive PyVAN (SV40−). Baseline characteristics, immunosuppression, KDRI, rejection episodes, etc., did not differ among groups but there were more deceased donors and ATG induction therapy in the high viremia group. At last follow‐up, all patients in the low, high viremia and presumptive PyVAN (except 2) had cleared BK viremia. Bx‐proven PyVAN led to 14 graft losses, 10 due to PyVAN. In the presumptive PyVAN there was only one graft loss registered as due to PyVAN. eGFR, at 1 month after KTx, did not differ among groups (51 ± 22 vs 48 ± 24 vs 45 ± 27 vs 43 ± 18 vs 46 ± 22 mL/min/1.73 m2), for no, low and high viremia as well for presumptive PyVAN and bx‐proven PyVAN groups, respectively. At the last follow‐up, eGFR did not differ between the no, low, and high viremia compared to baseline and to each other but was statistically lower in the presumptive and bx‐proven PyVAN (38 ± 15 and 17 ± 7 mL/min/1.73 m2) either compared to baseline or to the other groups.

Conclusions

This study shows that low and high levels of BK viremia do not lead to GFR changes although very high viremia levels, compatible with presumptive or bx‐proven PyVAN, even if cleared thereafter, lead to allograft damage and decreased GFR.
Medicago falcata MfSTMIR, an E3 ligase of endoplasmic reticulum‐associated degradation, is involved in salt stress response
Authors: Zhang Rongxue , Chen Hong , Duan Mei , Zhu Fugui , Wen Jiangqi , Dong Jiangli , Wang Tao
Published: February 2019

Recent studies on E3 of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐associated degradation (ERAD) in plants have revealed homologs in yeast and animals. However, it remains unknown whether the plant ERAD system contains a plant‐specific E3 ligase. Here, we report that MfSTMIR, which encodes an ER‐membrane‐localized RING E3 ligase that is highly conserved in leguminous plants, plays essential roles in the response of ER and salt stress in Medicago. MfSTMIR expression was induced by salt and tunicamycin (Tm). mtstmir loss‐of‐function mutants displayed impaired induction of the ER stress‐responsive genes BiP1/2 and BiP3 under Tm treatment and sensitivity to salt stress. MfSTMIR promoted the degradation of a known ERAD substrate, CPY*. MfSTMIR interacted with the ERAD‐associated ubiquitin‐conjugating enzyme MtUBC32 and Sec61‐translocon subunit MtSec61γ. MfSTMIR did not affect MtSec61γ protein stability. Our results suggest that the plant‐specific E3 ligase MfSTMIR participates in the ERAD pathway by interacting with MtUBC32 and MtSec61γ to relieve ER stress during salt stress.
International assessment of massive transfusion protocol contents and indications for activation
Authors: Thomasson Reggie R. , Yazer Mark H. , Gorham James D. , Dunbar Nancy M. ,   MTP Use Study Investigators, on behalf of the Biomedical Excellence for Safer Transfusion (BEST) Collaborative
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Massive transfusion protocols (MTPs) provide blood products rapidly and in fixed amounts. MTPs are commonly used in trauma but may also be used in other clinical settings, although evidence to support fixed‐ratio resuscitation in nontraumatic hemorrhage is lacking. The goals of this study were to describe the types and contents of available MTPs and the clinical indications for MTP activation.

METHODS

A survey was distributed to 353 transfusion medicine specialists to assess the types and contents of available MTPs. Survey participants were invited to provide the clinical indications for consecutive adult and pediatric MTP activations for at least 6 months during 2015 to 2017.

RESULTS

There were 125 completed surveys (35% response rate) including three from children's specialty hospitals. Most hospitals that treated adult patients (90/122, 74%) utilized only one MTP for all adult bleeding emergencies, while one hospital had no MTP. Of the 31 hospitals that provided more than one adult MTP, 20 provided MTPs specific for obstetric bleeding cases. Of these, 50% (10/20) included at least one pool of cryoprecipitate or fibrinogen concentrate in the first MTP round, compared with 14% (13/90) of the hospitals with one MTP (p = 0.0012). Fifty‐seven hospitals provided the clinical indication for 4176 adult and 155 pediatric MTP activations. Although trauma was the single most common indication, the majority of adult (58%) and pediatric (65%) activations were for nontrauma indications.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of hospitals use a single MTP to manage massive hemorrhage. The majority of MTP activations were for nontrauma indications.
Efficacy of a new pathogen‐reduced cryoprecipitate stored 5 days after thawing to correct dilutional coagulopathy in vitro
Authors: Cushing Melissa M. , Asmis Lars M. , Harris Rebecca M. , DeSimone Robert A. , Hill Shanna , Ivascu Natalia , Haas Thorsten
Published: February 2019

BACKGROUND

Fibrinogen supplementation during bleeding restores clot strength and hemostasis. Cryoprecipitate, a concentrated source of fibrinogen, has prolonged preparation time for thawing, a short shelf life resulting in frequent wastage, and infectious disease risk. This in vitro study investigated the efficacy of a new pathogen‐reduced cryoprecipitate thawed and stored at room temperature for 5 days (PR Cryo) to treat dilutional hypofibrinogenemia, compared to immediately thawed standard cryoprecipitate (Cryo) or fibrinogen concentrate (FC).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Ten phlebotomy specimens from healthy volunteers were diluted 1:1 with crystalloid and supplemented with PR Cryo and Cryo (at a dose replicating transfusion of two pooled doses [10 units]) and FC at a dose replicating 50 mg/kg. Changes in clot firmness (thromboelastometry) and in coagulation factor activity were assessed at baseline, after dilution, and after supplementation.

RESULTS

Clinical dosing was used, as described above, and consequently the FC dose contained 24% and 36% more fibrinogen versus PR Cryo and Cryo, respectively. At baseline, subjects had a median FIBTEM maximum clot firmness of 13.5 mm, versus 6.5 mm after 50% dilution (p = 0.005). After supplementation with PR Cryo, a median FIBTEM maximum clot firmness of 13 mm was observed versus 9.0 mm for Cryo (p = 0.005) or 16.5 mm for FC (p = 0.005). Median factor XIII was higher after PR Cryo (64.8%) versus Cryo (48.3%) (p = 0.005). Fibrinogen activity was higher after FC (269.0 mg/dL) versus PR Cryo (187.0 mg/dL; p = 0.005) or Cryo (193.5 mg/dL; p = 0.005); the difference between PR Cryo and Cryo supplementation (p = 0.445) was not significant.

CONCLUSION

PR Cryo used 5 days after thawing effectively restores clot strength after in vitro dilution.
Congenital lacrimal fistula in two prim'Holstein calves
Authors: Jugant Sophie , Robin Marie‐Claire , Regnier Alain , Cassard Hervé , Herman Nicolas , Conchou Fabrice , Douet Jean‐Yves
Published: February 2019

Two 4‐ and 8‐month‐old prim'Holstein calves were presented for chronic epiphora. Examination of the affected eyes revealed an abnormal duct opening inferonasal to the medial canthus. A diagnosis of congenital lacrimal fistula was made based on conventional and computed tomographic‐dacryocystography findings. These revealed an ectopic channel connecting the nasolacrimal duct to the skin opening near the medial canthus. Both of the calves were surgically treated with resection and closure of the ectopic duct and placement of a nasolacrimal stent.
A multicenter retrospective study on cryopreserved amniotic membrane transplantation for the treatment of complicated corneal ulcers in the dog
Authors: Costa Daniel , Leiva Marta , Sanz Fernando , Espejo Victoria , Esteban Javier , Vergara Jorge , Díaz Clinio , Huguet Eduardo , Cairó Martí , Ríos José , Peña Maria Teresa
Published: February 2019

Objective

To describe the surgical technique and outcome of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) for treatment of complicated corneal ulcers in dogs.

Animals studied

One hundred and eleven dogs.

Procedure

Medical records (2010‐2017) were reviewed to identify canine patients that underwent AMT for the treatment of complicated corneal ulcers. Quantitative and ordinal variables were analyzed using Mann‐Whitney U test and Fisher's Exact test.

Results

Brachycephalic breeds were overrepresented (74/111; 66.6%). Three dogs were bilaterally affected. Fifty‐one had melting ulcers (51/114; 44.7%), 33 stromal ulcers (33/63; 52.4%), 17 descemetoceles (17/63; 27%), and 13 perforations (13/63;20.6%). Mean defect size was 6.2 mm (2‐18 mm). Human (32/114; 28.1%) or bovine (82/114; 71.9%) (AmnioVet(R)) cryopreserved amniotic membranes were used. Monolayer (31/114; 27.2%), bilayer (44/114; 38.6%) or multilayer technique (39/114; 34.2%) was performed, being anchored to the limbus (52/114; 45.6%), to the defect (48/114; 42.1%) or both (14/114; 12.3%). Mean epithelial healing and follow‐up times were 25.6 days (15‐45) and 98.7 days (21‐400), respectively. Most common postsurgical complications included pigmentation (10/114; 8.8%) and graft failure (5/114; 4.4%). Depth and size of corneal lesions, human amniotic membrane (AM) and concurrent ocular diseases were associated with more complications (P < 0.05). Good cosmetic and visual outcomes were achieved in 99.1% (113/114) and 97.4% (111/114) of cases, respectively. Zero to low graft opacity was seen in 23.9% of the eyes (27/113), mild to moderate in 64.6% (73/113) and complete in 11.5% (13/113).

Conclusions

Cryopreserved AMT is an effective surgical technique for the treatment of complicated corneal ulcers in the dog, with highly satisfactory visual and cosmetic outcomes.
Evaluation of DMSO dextrose as a suitable alternative for DMSO dextran in cord blood cryopreservation
Authors: Raffo Diego , Perez Tito Leticia , Pes María Elisa , Fernandez Sasso Diego
Published: February 2019

Background and Objectives

Umbilical cord blood is considered an alternative source of hematopoietic stem cells. Standard banking procedures use 50/55% DMSO in dextran 40 for cryopreservation and dextran‐based solutions for thawing, however, due to the potential risk of crystallization of dextran, dextran 40 approved for clinical use has become limited or unavailable. This affects cryopreservation and thawing procedures. Carbohydrates, in particular sucrose, trehalose and glucose, have been shown to be effective in reducing cell damage during dehydration and have cryoprotective potential. We aim to study a 50/55% DMSO in 5% dextrose cryopreservation solution as an alternative to DMSO dextran.

Materials and Methods

Eighteen samples were divided into two aliquots and cryopreserved, one using standard solution and the other with DMSO dextrose experimental solution. Both aliquots were thawed and diluted with PBS or saline. Total nucleated cells counts, 7‐AAD viability of CD45+ cells and recovery of CD34+ viable cells were assessed on thawed samples and compared between pair of aliquots.

Results

No differences were observed in the total nucleated cells recovery between cryopreservation solutions, however, higher viability and CD34+ viable cells recoveries were observed using the experimental solution.

Conclusion

Results showed that DMSO dextrose cryopreservation solution had better results than the standard solution when thawed in an isotonic solution. This indicates that DMSO dextrose is probably a better alternative for direct infusion or when dextran thawing solutions are unavailable. Viability of CD45+ cells and recovery of CD34+ viable cells have positive correlation with engraftment, highlighting the relevance of the optimization of the cryopreservation and thawing process.
Implementation of the One Health approach to fight arbovirus infections in the Mediterranean and Black Sea Region: Assessing integrated surveillance in Serbia, Tunisia and Georgia
Authors: Dente Maria Grazia , Riccardo Flavia , Bolici Francesco , Colella Nello Augusto , Jovanovic Verica , Drakulovic Mitra , Vasic Milena , Mamlouk Habiba , Maazaoui Latifa , Bejaoui Mondher , Zakhashvili Khatuna , Kalandadze Irine , Imnadze Paata , Declich Silvia ,   the MeSA Working Group
Published: February 2019

Background

In the Mediterranean and Black Sea Region, arbovirus infections are emerging infectious diseases. Their surveillance can benefit from one health inter‐sectoral collaboration; however, no standardized methodology exists to study One Health surveillance.

Methods

We designed a situation analysis study to document how integration of laboratory/clinical human, animal and entomological surveillance of arboviruses was being implemented in the Region. We applied a framework designed to assess three levels of integration: policy/institutional, data collection/data analysis and dissemination. We tested the use of Business Process Modelling Notation (BPMN) to graphically present evidence of inter‐sectoral integration.

Results

Serbia, Tunisia and Georgia participated in the study. West Nile Virus surveillance was analysed in Serbia and Tunisia, Crimea‐Congo Haemorrhagic Fever surveillance in Georgia. Our framework enabled a standardized analysis of One Health surveillance integration, and BPMN was easily understandable and conducive to detailed discussions among different actors/institutions. In all countries, we observed integration across sectors and levels except in data collection and data analysis. Data collection was interoperable only in Georgia without integrated analysis. In all countries, surveillance was mainly oriented towards outbreak response, triggered by an index human case.

Discussion

The three surveillance systems we observed prove that integrated surveillance can be operationalized with a diverse spectrum of options. However, in all countries, the integrated use of data for early warning and inter‐sectoral priority setting is pioneeristic. We also noted that early warning before human case occurrence is recurrently not operationally prioritized.
Multi-Pass Serpentine Cooling Designs for Negating Coriolis Force Effect on Heat Transfer: Smooth Channels
Authors: Singh Prashant , Ji Yongbin , Ekkad Srinath V.
Published: February 2019

The combined action of Coriolis and centrifugal buoyancy forces results in nonuniform heat transfer coefficient on pressure and suction side internal walls, hence leading to nonuniform metal temperatures and increased thermal stresses. The present study addresses the problem of nonuniform heat transfer distribution due to rotation effect and proposes novel designs for serpentine cooling passages, which are arranged along the chord of the blade. The two configurations were four-passage and six-passage serpentine smooth channels. Detailed heat transfer coefficients were measured using transient liquid crystal thermography under stationary and rotating conditions. Heat transfer experiments were carried out for Reynolds numbers ranging from 12,294 to 85,000 under stationary conditions. Rotation experiments were carried out for the Rotation numbers of 0.05 and 0.11. Heat transfer enhancement levels of approximately two times the Dittus–Boelter correlation (for developed flow in smooth tubes) were obtained under stationary conditions. Under rotating conditions, we found that the four-passage configuration had slightly lower heat transfer compared with the stationary case, and the six-passage configuration had higher heat transfer on both the leading and trailing sides compared with the stationary case. The leading and trailing side heat transfer characteristics were near-similar to each other for both the configurations, and the rotating heat transfer was near-similar to the stationary condition heat transfer.
The Sensitivity of Inner Nozzle Flow in Gasoline Direct Injection Injector to the Nozzle Geometry Parameters
Authors: Li Xinhai , Cheng Yong , Ma Xiaoyan , Yang Xue
Published: February 2019

The inner-flow of gasoline direct injection (GDI) injector nozzles plays an important role in the process of spray, and affects the mixture process in gasoline engine cylinder. The nozzle structure also affects the inner-flow of GDI injector. In order to obtain uniform performance of GDI injector, the size consistency of injector nozzle should be ensured. This paper researches the effect of nozzle length and diameter on the inner flow and analyzes the sensitivity of inner flow characteristics to these structural parameters. First, this paper reveals the process of inception, development, and saturated condition of cavitation phenomenon in injector nozzle. Second, the inner-nozzle flow characteristics are more sensitive to small diameter than large diameter under the short nozzle length, while the sensitivity of the inner-nozzle flow characteristics to large nozzle diameter becomes strong as the increase of the nozzle length. Finally, the influence of nozzle angle on the injection mass flow is studied, and the single nozzle fuel mass will increase as the decrease of nozzle angle α. And the sensitivity of inner-flow characteristic to nozzle angle becomes strong as the decrease of α.