bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supervisory Abuse of High Performers: A Social Comparison Perspective
Authors: Tariq Hussain , Weng Qingxiong (Derek) , Ilies Remus , Khan Abdul Karim
Published: October 2019

Prior research linking employee performance to abusive supervision suggests that supervisors have instrumental and non‐instrumental reasons for engaging in abuse while dealing with low performers in the workplace. Drawing on social comparison theory, we argue that high‐performing subordinates can make supervisors envious, which in turn leads to abusive supervisory behavior. Furthermore, we hypothesize supervisor social comparison orientation as a key boundary condition for the indirect positive effect of subordinate performance on abusive supervision through supervisor envy; that is, supervisors are more likely to abuse high performers when the supervisors’ social comparison orientation is high. A multi‐source, multi‐wave field study was conducted with data collected from supervisor‐subordinate dyads (N = 95 supervisors and 385 subordinates). The data supported a positive indirect effect of employee performance on abusive supervision through supervisor envy. Moreover, the indirect effect was statistically significant for supervisors with high social comparison orientation but it was not significant for supervisors with low social comparison orientation. Implications of these findings for reducing abusive supervision are discussed.
Facies and architectural variability of sub‐seismic slope‐channel fills in prograding clinoforms, Mid‐Jurassic Neuquén Basin, Argentina
Authors: Gan Yuqian (Philomena) , Steel Ronald J. , Olariu Cornel , De Almeida Flávio
Published: October 2019

Most slope‐channel outcrop studies have been conducted at continental margin‐scale on seismic data. However, in foreland and back‐arc deepwater settings, sub‐seismic scale slope channels hold equally important information on deepwater sediment delivery, often in hydrocarbon‐bearing provinces. One such slope‐channel system is examined in Lower Jurassic prograding shelf‐margin clinoforms in Bey Malec Estancia, La Jardinera area, southern Neuquén Basin, Argentina. In a 4 km wide, 300 m tall, slightly oblique‐ to depositional‐dip section of Jurassic Los Molles Formation deepwater slope deposits, seven clinoform timelines were identified by isolated slope‐channel fills with thicknesses less than 50 m. Sedimentary logs, satellite images, a digital elevation model and drone photogrammetry were used to map variations in downslope channel geometry and infill facies. The slope channels are filled with sediment density flow deposits: poorly sorted conglomeratic debrites, structureless sandy high‐density turbidites and well‐sorted, fine‐grained, graded low‐density turbidites. The debrite portion decreases downslope, whereas high‐ and low‐density turbidites increase. A grain‐size analysis reveals a broad downslope fining trend of turbidite and debrite beds within slope channels with increasing water depth, and some notable bypass of conglomeratic facies to the lowermost slope channels and basin floor fans. The architecture of the slope channels changes from lateral to aggradational infill downstream. The Bey Malec clinoforms and its slope channels add new knowledge on downslope changes for sediment delivery in relatively shallow (<500 m water depth), prograding‐dominant deepwater basins. They also highlight one of very few outcropping examples of oblique‐type clinoforms.
Combining spirometry and fractional exhaled nitric oxide improves diagnostic accuracy for childhood asthma
Authors: Eom Sang‐Yong , Lee Joon Kee , Lee Young‐Joon , Hahn Youn‐Soo
Published: October 2019

Objectives

There are insufficient evidences supporting the use of spirometric indices along with tests for airway inflammation to improve diagnostic accuracy for asthma. We aimed to study the utility of combination of spirometric indices and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measured at the initial visit in diagnosing asthma.

Methods

Consecutive children aged 8‐16 years who were referred for evaluation of possible asthma were included. At referral, all participants completed FeNO measurements and spirometry. The diagnosis of asthma was established with conventional criteria. Diagnostic performance of the spirometric indices and FeNO was determined using receiver‐operator characteristic (ROC) curve analyses.

Results

Of 275 participants, 191 children were diagnosed with asthma and showed lower spirometric indices and higher FeNO than non‐asthmatics. In the ROC curve analyses, forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of vital capacity (FEF25‐75) percent predicted demonstrated diagnostic performance with the area under the ROC curve (AUC) value of 0.81 (95% CI: 0.76‐0.87) which was significantly higher than those for forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) percent predicted and FEV1/forced vital capacity. The combined use of FEF25‐75 percent predicted and FeNO improved the AUC to 0.90 (95% CI: 0.86‐0.93). In addition, compared to FEF25‐75 percent predicted or FeNO alone, this combination improved sensitivity with comparable specificity.

Conclusions

FEF25‐75 percent predicted had a better diagnostic value in detection of childhood asthma than other standard spirometric indices and its combination with FeNO improves the diagnostic accuracy for childhood asthma.
Basal insulin secretion capacity predicts the initial response and maximum levels of beta‐hydroxybutyrate during therapy with the sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitor tofogliflozin, in relation to weight loss
Authors: Sato Yuichi , Nunoi Kiyohide , Kaku Kohei , Yoshida Akihiro , Suganami Hideki
Published: October 2019

Aims

To investigate predictors of the initial response of beta‐hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and maximum BHB (max‐BHB) values during long‐term therapy with the sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitor tofogliflozin (TOFO), and to explore the association of the initial elevation of BHB with subsequent clinical effects in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

We analysed 774 people receiving TOFO in phase 3 trials in two groups based on measurable BHB change at week 4 (initial response): the top quartile [n = 194] and the three lower quartiles [n = 579]. Multivariate analysis was used to determine baseline predictors of inclusion in the top quartile and the max‐BHB values. To investigate the association of the initial response with subsequent clinical effects, adjusted changes in variables in the two groups were compared using an analysis of covariance model.

Results

Of the participants, 66% were men, and the mean age, glycated haemoglobin, body mass index and estimated glomerular filtration rate were 58.5 years, 8.1%, 25.6 kg/m2 and 83.9 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively. Median changes in BHB at week 4 in the top quartile and lower three quartiles were +246.4* and +30.8* μmol/L, respectively (*P < .001 vs baseline). Lower baseline insulin secretion capacity predicted the inclusion in the top quartile and greater max‐BHB levels. The top quartile was associated with greater weight loss following greater increases in free fatty acids and greater reductions in fasting C‐peptide levels compared with the lower three quartiles.

Conclusions

Lower basal insulin secretion capacity might predict greater initial BHB elevations and max‐BHB levels during long‐term TOFO therapy. Greater weight loss through lipid use might be related to high initial BHB elevations.
Impact of baseline characteristics and beta‐cell function on the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous once‐weekly semaglutide: A patient‐level, pooled analysis of the SUSTAIN 1‐5 trials
Authors: Aroda Vanita R. , Capehorn Matthew S. , Chaykin Louis , Frias Juan P. , Lausvig Nanna L. , Macura Stanislava , Lüdemann Jörg , Madsbad Sten , Rosenstock Julio , Tabak Omur , Tadayon Sayeh , Bain Stephen C.
Published: October 2019

Aim

To evaluate the impact of relevant patient‐level characteristics on the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous, once‐weekly semaglutide in subjects with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

Exploratory post hoc analyses of pooled SUSTAIN 1‐5 (phase 3a) randomized, controlled trials examined the change from baseline in HbA1c and body weight (BW), and the proportions of subjects achieving the composite endpoint (HbA1c < 7.0% [53 mmol/mol]), without weight gain or severe/blood glucose‐confirmed symptomatic hypoglycaemia at week 30 with semaglutide (0.5/1.0 mg) across clinically relevant patient subgroups: baseline HbA1c (≤7.5%, >7.5%‐8.0%, >8.0%‐8.5%, >8.5%‐9.0% and > 9.0%), background medications, diabetes duration and pancreatic beta‐cell function.

Results

Mean HbA1c (% point) reductions increased from lowest to highest HbA1c subgroups (−0.9%, −1.2%,‐1.5%, −1.7% and −2.3% [effect of subgroup within treatment: P = 0.247] for semaglutide 0.5 mg, and −1.1%, −1.4%, −1.9%, −2.1% and −2.7% [P = 0.045] for semaglutide 1.0 mg), with mean HbA1c ranges at week 30 of 6.3%‐7.3% and 6.1%‐6.9%, respectively. The corresponding BW reductions generally decreased with increasing baseline HbA1c (−4.4, −3.9, −3.9, −3.3 and −2.9 kg [P = 0.004], and −6.4, −5.9, −5.2, −4.5 and −4.8 kg [P < 0.001], respectively). HbA1c and BW reductions were consistently greater for semaglutide 1.0 mg versus 0.5 mg across background medication, diabetes duration and pancreatic beta‐cell function subgroups. Adverse events with semaglutide were consistent with the glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist class, with gastrointestinal events the most common.

Conclusions

Semaglutide was consistently efficacious across the continuum of diabetes care in a broad spectrum of patient subgroups with a range of clinical characteristics.
Mechanisms and metabolomics of the host–pathogen interactions between Chestnut (Castaneaspecies) and Chestnut blight (Cryphonectria parasitica)
Authors: Lovat Christie‐Anna , Donnelly Danielle J.
Published: October 2019

Chestnut blight is a stem‐girdling disease ofCastaneacaused by the fungal pathogenCryphonectria parasitica. Chestnut blight affects allCastaneaspecies to some degree. In Asian species, chestnut blight is a commercially relevant disease which primarily affects nut production. In American and European species, chestnut blight has caused significant declines in wild populations and continues to negatively affect nut production in the European chestnut (C. sativa). Despite the profound effect of this disease in theCastaneagenus, very little is known concerning the factors involved in the host–pathogen interaction betweenC. parasiticaand itsCastaneahosts. This review summarizes information on known mechanisms and metabolites involved in the host–pathogen interaction and contributes original information on the pathogen in relation to susceptible and putatively resistant genotypes with a view to furthering research that will promote a better understanding of this devastating disease and enable its control.
Hissing females of great tits (Parus major) have lower breeding success than non‐hissing individuals
Authors: Tilgar Vallo , Koosa Kaarin
Published: October 2019

Antipredator strategies vary remarkably between individuals within populations. Parents tend to take greater risks when brood value is increased. Moreover, individuals consistently differ in a whole suite of correlated behaviours that may cause distinctive responses to predators. It is likely that individual differences in antipredator behaviour may co‐vary with proxies for fitness such as reproductive success. We used a 4‐year data from wild great tits (Parus major) to test whether passive and active antipredator strategies (females with no response vs. those giving hissing calls towards a nest predator) during the incubation stage can reflect variation in breeding success. Although clutch size did not depend on hissing behaviour, the number of surviving offspring from eggs and neonates to fledglings was higher for non‐hissing than hissing birds. We conclude that females with distinct antipredator strategies can prioritize different fitness components.
Factors affecting reversion from mild cognitive impairment to normal cognition in midlife to later life in Korea: A national population study
Authors: Jang Ah Ram , Yoon Ju Young
Published: October 2019

Aim

The purpose of this study was to identify the midlife and later life factors affecting reversion from mild cognitive impairment to normal cognition after 4 years.

Methods

We analyzed data from the 2012 and 2016 Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging. The participants of this study were Korean community‐dwelling adults aged ≥45 years who showed mild cognitive impairment in 2012. They were divided into midlife (<65 years) and later life (≥65 years) based on their age in 2012. Cognitive function was assessed by the Korean Mini‐Mental State Examination in 2016. Multiple logistic regression analysis was carried out to determine the factors affecting reversion by age group.

Results

Among participants with mild cognitive impairment, 52.0% in midlife and 26.6% in later life reverted to normal cognition after 4 years. In midlife, higher education (OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.15–3.36), fewer chronic diseases (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.61–0.99), lower levels of depressive symptoms (OR 0.95, 95% CI 0.90–0.99) and higher participation in social activities (OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.27–2.87) were significantly associated with reversion. In later life, higher baseline cognitive function (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.14–1.47) and higher participation in social activities (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.02–1.79) were significantly associated with reversion.

Conclusions

The reversion rate in midlife was higher than that of later life. More modifiable factors affecting reversion were found in midlife, suggesting that assessment and intervention at an early age should be considered. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 1129–1135.
FluChip‐8G Insight: HA and NA subtyping of potentially pandemic influenza A viruses in a single assay
Authors: Toth Evan , Dawson Erica D. , Taylor Amber W. , Stoughton Robert S. , Blair Rebecca H. , Johnson James E. , Slinskey Amelia , Fessler Ryan , Smith Catherine B. , Talbot Sarah , Rowlen Kathy
Published: October 2019

Background

Global influenza surveillance in humans and animals is a critical component of pandemic preparedness. The FluChip‐8G Insight assay was developed to subtype both seasonal and potentially pandemic influenza viruses in a single assay with a same day result. FluChip‐8G Insight uses whole gene segment RT‐PCR‐based amplification to provide robustness against genetic drift and subsequent microarray detection with artificial neural network‐based data interpretation.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to verify and validate the performance of the FluChip‐8G Insight assay for the detection and positive identification of human and animal origin non‐seasonal influenza A specimens.

Methods

We evaluated the ability of the FluChip‐8G Insight technology to type and HA and NA subtype a sample set consisting of 297 results from 180 unique non‐seasonal influenza A strains (49 unique subtypes).

Results

FluChip‐8G Insight demonstrated a positive percent agreement ≥93% for 5 targeted HA and 5 targeted NA subtypes except for H9 (88%), and negative percent agreement exceeding 95% for all targeted subtypes.

Conclusions

The FluChip‐8G Insight neural network‐based algorithm used for virus identification performed well over a data set of 297 naïve sample results, and can be easily updated to improve performance on emerging strains without changing the underlying assay chemistry.
Attractive male sticklebacks carry more oxidative DNA damage in the soma and germline
Authors: Kim Sin‐Yeon , Velando Alberto
Published: October 2019

Trade‐offs between the expression of sexual signals and the maintenance of somatic and germline tissues are expected when these depend upon the same resources. Despite the importance of sperm DNA integrity, its trade‐off with sexual signalling has rarely been explored. We experimentally tested the trade‐off between carotenoid‐based sexual coloration and oxidative DNA damage in skeletal muscle, testis and sperm by manipulating reproductive schedule (early vs. late onset of breeding) in male three‐spined sticklebacks. Oxidative DNA damage was measured as the amount of 8‐hydroxy‐2‐deoxyguanosine in genomic DNA. Irrespective of the experimentally manipulated reproductive schedule, individuals investing more in red coloration showed higher levels of oxidative DNA damage in muscle, testis and sperm during the peak breeding season. Our results show that the expression of red coloration traded off against the level of oxidative DNA damage possibly due to the competing functions of carotenoids as colorants and antioxidants. Thus, female sticklebacks may risk fertility and viability of offspring by choosing redder, more deteriorated partners with decreased sperm DNA integrity. The evolution of sexual signal may be constrained by oxidative DNA damage in the soma and germline.
Calibration of oxygen isotope fractionation and calcite‐corundum thermometry in emery at Naxos, Greece
Authors: Turnier Rachelle B. , Katzir Yaron , Kitajima Kouki , Orland Ian J. , Spicuzza Michael J. , Valley John W.
Published: October 2019

Corundum (Crn), including sapphire, occurs in emery pods surrounded by marble on the island of Naxos, Greece. The emery formed from bauxite deposited in karst that was metamorphosed to 400–700°C at 20–15 Ma. Many of these rocks initially appeared well suited for refractory accessory mineral (RAM) thermometry, which uses oxygen isotope fractionation between a RAM – corundum – and a modally dominant phase with faster diffusion of oxygen – calcite (Cc) – to determine peak metamorphic temperatures. However, previous attempts at oxygen isotope thermometry were confounded by highly variable fractionations (Δ18O) measured at mm‐scale and the uncertain calibration of Δ18O(Cc‐Crn) versus temperature. Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) permits in situ analysis of δ18O in corundum and calcite at the 10‐μm scale in adjacent grains where textures suggest peak metamorphic equilibrium was attained. SIMS analyses of adjacent mineral pairs in eight rocks yield values of Δ(Cc‐Crn) that systematically decrease from 7.2 to 2.9‰ at higher metamorphic grade. Pairing these data with independent temperature estimates from mineral isograds yields an empirical calibration of 1,000 lnα(Cc‐Crn) = 2.72 ± 0.3 × 106/T2 (T in K). The new fractionations (2.7‰ at 1,000 K) are significantly smaller than those calculated from the modified increment method (6.5‰ at 1,000 K; Zheng, Geochimica et Cosmochimica Acta, 1991, 55:2299–2307; Zheng, Mineral Mag, 1994, 58A:1000–1001), which yield unreasonably high temperatures of 630 to 1,140°C when applied to the new Naxos data. The new calibration of Δ(Cc‐Crn) can be combined with published fractionations to calculate A‐factors for corundum versus a range of 14 other minerals. These new fractionation factors can be used for thermometry or to constrain the genesis of corundum. A compilation of gem corundum δ18O values shows that many igneous sapphires, including important deposits of basalt‐associated sapphire, are mildly elevated in δ18O relative to the calculated range in equilibrium with mantle values (4.4–5.7‰) and formed from evolved magmas.
Acupuncture therapy for breast cancer‐related lymphedema: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hou Wenzhen , Pei Lixia , Song Yafang , Wu Jian , Geng Hao , Chen Lu , Wang Yuhang , Hu Yao , Zhou Jinyong , Sun Jianhua
Published: October 2019

This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of clinical studies on acupuncture treatment for breast cancer‐related lymphedema (BCRL), so as to explore the efficacy and safety of acupuncture treatment and provide evidence for the clinical decision‐making. Public databases, mainly including China Academic Journals Full‐text Database, Database of Chinese Sci‐Tech Journal, Wanfang, PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library, from the establishment of databases to December 2018 were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCT) of acupuncture for BCRL. Clinical RCT on the treatment of BCRL with acupuncture combined with drugs or functional exercise were enrolled for the analysis. Bias risk and quality were assessed by two investigators according to the Cochrane Handbook 5.1.0 standard, and the Revman 5.3 software was used for meta‐analysis. A total of 13 studies were enrolled, comprising 747 patients (377 in the treatment group and 370 in the control group). The results of meta‐analysis showed that acupuncture intervention could improve the total effective rate for the treatment of BCRL (odds ratio = 4.62; 95% confidence interval 2.61–8.17). Recent studies suggest that acupuncture therapy can alleviate the upper limb swelling and improve the subjective pain and discomfort in patients with BCRL, regardless of the control intervention used. However, the number of high‐quality RCT is low. Moreover, most of the studies adopted inconsistent efficacy indicators. Hence, additional blinded, large‐sample, randomized, well‐controlled studies with objective and uniform efficacy indicators are needed, especially in China, to confirm the findings.
Pharmacokinetic assessment of constituents of Boswellia serrata, pine bark extracts, curcumin in combination including methylsulfonylmethane in healthy volunteers
Authors: Liu Xiaoqian , Hunter David J , Eyles Jillian , McLachlan Andrew J , Adiwidjaja Jeffry , Eagles Shane K , Wang XiaoSuo
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Dietary supplements are increasingly used by people with osteoarthritis. Boswellia serrata extract, curcumin, pine bark extract and methylsulfonylmethane have been identified as having the largest effects for symptomatic relief in a systematic review. It is important to understand whether any pharmacokinetic interactions are among the major constituents of these supplements so as to provide information when considering the combination use of these supplements. The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of the constituents alone and in combination.

Methods

This study was a randomized, open-label, single-dose, four-treatment, four-period, crossover study with 1-week washout. The pharmacokinetics of the constituents of these supplements when dosed in combination with methylsulfonylmethane were compared to being administered alone. Plasma samples were obtained over 24 h from 16 healthy participants. Eight major constituents were analysed using a validated ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry assay.

Key findings

The pharmacokinetics of each constituent was characterized, and there were no significant differences in the pharmacokinetic profiles of the constituents when administered as a combination, relative to the constituents when administered alone (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

These data suggest that interactions between the major constituents of this supplement combination are unlikely and therefore could be investigated to manage patients with osteoarthritis without significant concerns for possible pharmacokinetic interactions.
Azurocidin in gingival crevicular fluid as a potential biomarker of chronic periodontitis
Authors: Nalmpantis Dimitrios , Gatou Asimina , Fragkioudakis Ioannis , Margariti Apostolia , Skoura Lemonia , Sakellari Dimitra
Published: October 2019

Background and Objective

Azurocidin is a neutrophil‐derived protein in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) which, according to relevant studies, might correlate with periodontal disease. The aim of the present study was to evaluate azurocidin as a potential biomarker for chronic periodontitis.

Material and Methods

One hundred and one patients participated in the study, divided into two groups. Forty‐eight were included in the periodontally healthy group (HP) and fifty‐three in the chronic periodontitis group (CP). Clinical indices included probing depth (PD), recession (REC), clinical attachment level (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP) and plaque (PL). Pooled GCF samples were collected with paper strips, freezed in liquid nitrogen (−196°C), stored at −80°C, and the levels of azurocidin were analyzed with ELISA. Values were transformed and expressed for comparisons in pg/30 s sample. Statistical comparisons were performed using non‐parametric tests (Mann‐Whitney) at the 0.05 level. Furthermore, the diagnostic accuracy of the procedure was assessed with receiver operator characteristic curves (ROC), areas under the curve (AUC), and the Youden's J Index calculated.

Results

Demographic data were comparable between the two groups. Clinical parameters and the levels of azurocidin were statistically significantly higher in the CP group when compared to the HP group (Mann‐Whitney test, P < .05). Quantitative data from ELISA demonstrated a high diagnostic accuracy of azurocidin, with AUC calculated higher than 0.9 at the 0.000 level.

Conclusion

Azurocidin in GCF is a promising biomarker for periodontal disease. The results of the present study agree with previous studies in the literature showing an up‐regulated trend in the levels of azurocidin in periodontitis patients.
Presolar grains in primitive ungrouped carbonaceous chondrite Northwest Africa 5958
Authors: Nittler Larry R. , Stroud Rhonda M. , Alexander Conel M. O'D. , Howell Kaitlin
Published: October 2019

We report a correlated NanoSIMS‐transmission electron microscopy study of the ungrouped carbonaceous chondrite Northwest Africa (NWA) 5958. We identified 10 presolar SiC grains, 2 likely presolar graphite grains, and 20 presolar silicate and/or oxide grains in NWA 5958. We suggest a slight modification of the commonly used classification system for presolar oxides and silicates that better reflects the grains’ likely stellar origins. The matrix‐normalized presolar SiC abundance in NWA 5958 is ppm (2σ) similar to that seen in many classes of unmetamorphosed chondrites. In contrast, the matrix‐normalized abundance of presolar O‐rich phases (silicates and oxides) is ppm (2σ), much lower than seen in interplanetary dust particles and the least‐altered CR, CO, and ungrouped C chondrites, but close to that reported for CM chondrites. NanoSIMS mapping also revealed an unusual 13C‐enriched (δ13C≈100–200‰) carbonaceous rim surrounding a 1.4 μm diameter phyllosilicate grain. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis of two presolar grains with a likely origin in asymptotic giant branch stars identified one as enstatite and one as Al‐Mg spinel with minor Cr. The enstatite grain amorphized rapidly under the electron beam, suggesting partial hydration. TEM data of NWA 5958 matrix confirm that it has experienced aqueous alteration and support the suggestion of Jacquet et al. (34) that this meteorite has affinities to CM2 chondrites.
A prospective observational cohort study on the incidence of postoperative sore throat in the pediatric population
Authors: Miskovic Alice , Johnson Mae , Frost Louise , Fernandez Elena , Pistorio Angela , Disma Nicola
Published: October 2019

Background

Postoperative sore throat is common after general anesthesia. The incidence in pediatric anesthesia is variable, and the etiology unclear. Establishing risk factors would enable prevention and could improve quality of care.

Aims

We performed a prospective single‐center cohort study aiming to establish the incidence of postoperative sore throat in children undergoing GA with an endotracheal tube or laryngeal mask airway. Secondary aims were to identify independent risk factors for sore throat and the incidence of other postoperative complications including stridor, laryngospasm, nausea and vomiting, and delayed oral intake.

Methods

Between November 2017 and April 2018, perioperative data were collected from children aged 5‐16 years undergoing general, plastic, urology, renal, and orthopedic surgery. Patients completed a postoperative questionnaire within 24 hours of surgery.

Results

We screened 334 children for inclusion at a tertiary pediatric hospital in the United Kingdom. One hundred and ninety‐seven patients were included in the final analysis. The frequency of postoperative sore throat was 36.5%. Stridor occurred in 1.5%, laryngospasm 1.0%, postoperative nausea 59.4%, vomiting in recovery 4.6%, and delayed oral intake due to postoperative sore throat 30%. Nausea, vomiting, thirst, and pain were associated with a sore throat. Univariate analysis showed anesthesia longer than 2 hours, and use of an endotracheal tube was statistically associated with higher risk of sore throat. Over 50% of children with an endotracheal tube cuff pressure <20 cmH2O had a postoperative sore throat.

Conclusion

Postoperative sore throat is common in children. Endotracheal intubation is associated with a greater incidence than laryngeal mask airway use. A high rate of postoperative sore throat in children with endotracheal tube cuff pressures within the recommended range suggests multifactorial etiology. To confirm validity of the identified risk factors, we would recommend a larger prospective multi‐center study.
High prevalence of periodontitis in blood donors and the possibility of questionnaire‐based screening – results of a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Schmalz G. , Hübscher A. E. , Angermann H. , Schmidt J. , Schmickler J. , Legler T. J. , Ziebolz D.
Published: October 2019

Background

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of high prevalence and, thus, of potential relevance to the management of blood donation.

Objectives

The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to assess periodontal health and its associations to common blood parameters, as well as questionnaire‐based periodontitis screening in blood donors.

Methods

Generally healthy blood donors were recruited and underwent oral examination. Thereby, the decayed‐, missing‐ and filled‐teeth index (DMF‐T) and periodontal status, including periodontal probing depth and clinical attachment loss, were assessed. Based on periodontal status, periodontitis severity was classified into no/mild, moderate or severe. Six yes/no questions regarding periodontal complaints and history were asked. Furthermore, common blood parameters were analysed.

Results

A total of 148 participants (mean age 53·33 years) were included. The DMF‐T was 15·28 ± 6·44. Nearly three quarters of participants suffered from a periodontitis (moderate 59·5% and severe 14·8%, total periodontitis 74·3%). Periodontitis severity was associated with the history of dental visits caused by periodontal complaints (P < 0·01) and previous periodontal therapy (P < 0·01). Only procalcitonin was initially found to be associated with blood periodontitis severity (P = 0·02). This observation was not confirmed by post‐hoc testing between subgroups (Pi > 0·2). No further association between periodontitis severity and blood parameters was found (Pi > 0·05).

Conclusion

The prevalence of periodontitis in German blood donors is high. However, further studies with sensitive testing of bacteria in peripheral blood are required in order to determine the relevance of this result for the safety of blood components.
Bacterial survival in whole blood depends on plasma sensitivity and resistance to neutrophil killing
Authors: Taha Mariam , Kyluik‐Price Dana , Kumaran Dilini , Scott Mark D. , Toyofuku Wendy , Ramirez‐Arcos Sandra
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Whole blood (WB) is held at room temperature for not more than 24 hours before blood component manufacturing. The ability of several culture collection, skin‐derived, and transfusion‐related bacteria to survive in WB stored at 22 ± 2°C for 24 hours was investigated in this study.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Twenty‐one bacteria of the species Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus capitis, Streptococcus agalactiae, Serratia liquefaciens, Serratia marcescens, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, and Yersinia enterocolitica were inoculated into 7‐mL aliquots of WB at a concentration of 500 colony‐forming units (CFU)/mL. Spiked WB was stored aerobically at 22 ± 2°C, and bacterial viability and growth were monitored at 3, 8, and 24 hours during WB storage. Bacteria that showed decreased viability during WB incubation were further characterized for their sensitivity to plasma factors and neutrophil killing.

RESULTS

There were three different scenarios for bacterial behavior during the hold of WB at 22 ± 2°C. Five bacteria proliferated (p < 0.03), 11 remained viable or showed low proliferation, and a third group of five bacteria had decreased or lost viability (p < 0.01). Three of the latter five bacteria were plasma‐sensitive while the other two were plasma‐resistant but susceptible to neutrophil killing (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The bactericidal activity of WB can be the result of plasma sensitivity or neutrophil killing. Bacteria with a starting inoculum of 500 CFU/mL, and able to resist WB immune factors, can proliferate to clinically significant levels posing a potential safety risk to transfusion patients. Results of this pilot study should be validated under standard WB collection and storage conditions.
Transfusion‐related immunomodulation: gamma irradiation alters the effects of leukoreduction on alloimmunization
Authors: Nelson Karen A. , Aldea Gabriel S. , Warner Paul , Latchman Yvette , Gunasekera Devi , Tamir Ayala , Gernsheimer Terry , Bolgiano Doug , Slichter Sherrill J.
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

Adverse events following blood transfusion include allosensitization and generalized immunosuppression, collectively referred to as transfusion‐related immune modulation. We evaluated the immunological effects of red blood cell (RBC) and platelet transfusions on alloantibody responses and on immunoregulatory cells in nonimmunosuppressed patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients were randomized to receive standard unmodified (STD), leukoreduced (LR), or leukoreduced and γ‐irradiated (LRγ) RBCs. Patients received only apheresis platelets that were in‐process LR and were γ‐irradiated for the third arm. Nontransfused patients served as controls for the effects of surgery itself on immunologic changes. Antibodies to HLA were assessed with use of solid‐phase assays. The effects of transfusion on adaptive and innate immunity were evaluated by assessing T regulatory cells (Tregs) and invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells.

RESULTS

LR of blood products reduced the development of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alloantibodies, but only in patients without preexisting HLA antibodies. However, if LR blood products were γ‐irradiated, HLA antibody production was not reduced. Compared to nontransfused patients, recipients of STD or LR transfusions showed a significant increase in CD4+CD25hi T cells expressing FoxP3 or CTLA4 and also of iNKT cells producing interleukin‐4. In contrast, recipients of LRγ blood products showed markedly lower increases in all three cellular assays.

CONCLUSION

LR decreased HLA alloantibody production in naïve recipients, but did not reduce the immunosuppressive effects of transfusion. LRγ reduced immunosuppression and was not associated with decreased HLA alloantibody production.
Dissecting interbank risk using basis swap spreads
Authors: Lafuente Juan Ángel , Petit Nuria , Ruiz Jesús , Serrano Pedro
Published: October 2019

This paper analyses interbank risk using the information content of basis swap (BS) spreads, floating‐to‐floating interest rate swaps whose payments are associated with euro deposit rates for alternative tenors. To identify the impact of shocks affecting interbank risk, we propose an empirical model that decomposes BS quotes into their expected and unexpected components. These unobservable constituents of BS spreads are estimated by solving a signal extraction problem using a particle filter. We find that expected components covariate with aggregate liquidity and risk aversion while systemic risk arises as the main driver behind unexpected fluctuations. Our empirical findings suggest that macroprudential analysis emerges as a key device to ease asset pricing in a new multi‐curve scenario.
Trading activities, productivity and markups: Evidence for Spanish manufacturing
Authors: Máñez Castillejo Juan A. , Mínguez Bosque Consuelo , Rochina Barrachina María E. , Sanchis Llopis Juan A.
Published: October 2019

This work analyses the firms' internationalisation strategies of importing intermediates and exporting output, and the potential rewards of these activities in terms of total factor productivity (TFP), as a proxy for marginal costs, and markups. It further deepens into the study of the relationship between internationalisation strategies and markups by disentangling whether it operates through affecting firms' marginal costs and/or firms' prices. The panel database employed in this paper is the Spanish Survey on Business Strategies (ESEE) for the period 2006–14. Results in the paper distinguish between SMEs and large firms and indicate that there is high persistence in the performance of these activities and in firms' TFP and markups. For SMEs, we obtain rewards from importing inputs as well as exporting output in terms of TFP and markups. For large firms, we obtain rewards in TFP from the importing activity and rewards in markups from the exporting activity. Finally, we find evidence that the effects of internationalisation strategies on markups are due to both a price channel and a marginal cost channel.
Adaptive block forward and backward stagewise orthogonal matching pursuit algorithm applied to rolling bearing fault signal reconstruction
Authors: Meng Zong , Shi Ying , Chen Zijun , Pan Zuozhou , Li Jing
Published: October 2019

In the process of block compressed sensing (CS) applied to the rolling bearing fault signal, the reconstruction accuracy of the signal is low due to the large difference in sparsity between blocks and the unreasonable components of reconstruction support set, which affects the overall reconstruction effect of the signal. To improve the signal reconstruction results, forward and backward stagewise orthogonal matching pursuit (FBStOMP) based on the adaptive block method is proposed. First, to equalize the sparsity of each block signal, the fault signal is divided into blocks according to the adaptive block length, which is obtained by the short-time autocorrelation algorithm. Then, the K-singular value decomposition algorithm is used to train the sparse dictionary to obtain a better sparse effect. Finally, the FBStOMP algorithm is proposed. The atom backtracking and screening process is added in the reconstruction process to improve the possibility that all the effective atoms can be selected into the support set. The experimental analysis of the simulation signal and bearing fault signal show that, compared with the traditional CS reconstruction algorithm, the adaptive block-FBStOMP algorithm proposed in the paper can effectively improve the reconstruction accuracy of the bearing fault signal.
Activity of Meropenem with a Novel Broader-Spectrum β-Lactamase Inhibitor, WCK 4234, against Gram-Negative Pathogens Endemic to New York City
Authors: Iregui Alejandro , Khan Zeb , Landman David , Quale John
Published: October 2019

WCK 4234 is a novel diazabicyclooctane with potent inhibitory activity against class A and D carbapenemases and class C enzymes. We examined the
in vitro
activity of meropenem plus WCK 4234 (4 or 8 μg/ml) against Gram-negative pathogens from New York City. Three groups of isolates were analyzed: a contemporary collection of isolates, a collection of known carbapenem-resistant isolates, and a collection of isolates with defined resistance mechanisms.
Pharmacological Modulation of the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway Inhibits Proliferation and Promotes Differentiation of Long-Lived Memory CD4
+
T Cells in Antiretroviral Therapy-Suppressed Simian Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Macaques
Authors: Mavigner M. , Zanoni M. , Tharp G. K. , Habib J. , Mattingly C. R. , Lichterfeld M. , Nega M. T. , Vanderford T. H. , Bosinger S. E. , Chahroudi A.
Published: October 2019

Long-lasting CD4
+
T cell subsets, such as central memory and stem cell memory CD4
+
T cells, represent critical reservoirs for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) persistence despite suppressive antiretroviral therapy. These cells possess stem cell-like properties of enhanced self-renewal/proliferation, and proliferation of latently infected memory CD4
+
T cells plays a key role in maintaining the reservoir over time. Here, we evaluated an innovative strategy targeting the proliferation of long-lived memory CD4
+
T cells to reduce viral reservoir stability. Using the rhesus macaque model, we tested a pharmacological inhibitor of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway that regulates T cell proliferation. Our study shows that administration of the inhibitor PRI-724 decreased the proliferation of SCM and CM CD4
+
T cells and promoted a transcriptome enriched in differentiation genes. Although the viral reservoir size was not significantly reduced by PRI-724 treatment alone, we demonstrate the potential to pharmacologically modulate the proliferation of memory CD4
+
T cells as a strategy to limit HIV persistence.
Genomic Variations Underlying Speciation and Niche Specialization of
Shewanella baltica
Authors: Deng Jie , Auchtung Jennifer M. , Konstantinidis Konstantinos T. , Brettar Ingrid , Höfle Manfred G. , Tiedje James M.
Published: October 2019

Speciation in nature is a fundamental process driving the formation of the vast microbial diversity on Earth. In the central Baltic Sea, the long-term stratification of water led to formation of a large-scale vertical redoxcline that provided a gradient of environmental niches with respect to the availability of electron acceptors and donors. The region was home to
Shewanella baltica
populations, which composed the dominant culturable nitrate-reducing bacteria, particularly in the oxic-anoxic transition zone. Using the collection of
S. baltica
isolates as a model system, genomic variations showed contrasting gene-sharing patterns within versus among
S. baltica
clades and revealed genomic signatures of
S. baltica
clades related to redox niche specialization as well as particle association. This study provides important insights into genomic mechanisms underlying bacterial speciation within this unique natural redoxcline.
A Knowledge-Based System for Questionnaires Evaluation of Digital Piano Collective Course for Preschool Education Major in Normal Universities
Authors: Li Su , Tian C. Ya
Published: October 2019

In order to improve the teaching level of digital piano collective course for preschool education major in normal universities and provide high-quality music education for children, a knowledge-based system for questionnaires evaluation of digital piano collective course for preschool education major in normal universities is proposed. The system can collect sufficient data and information, the exact orientation of piano learning, the exact choice of teaching mode by questionnaires. A comprehensive analysis of the students’ characteristics, teachers’ post skills and the orientation of digital piano syllabus in the preschool collective course teaching of digital piano in normal universities is made. Moreover, some countermeasures for perfecting digital piano teaching mode are proposed. As a result, it promotes the level of piano teaching in preschool education major, realizes the goal of arousing students’ enthusiasm for study and reduces teachers’ pressure.
SWING OPTION PRICING BY DYNAMIC PROGRAMMING WITH B-SPLINE DENSITY PROJECTION
Authors: LARS KIRKBY J. , DENG SHI-JIE
Published: October 2019

Swing options are a type of exotic financial derivative which generalize American options to allow for multiple early-exercise actions during the contract period. These contracts are widely traded in commodity and energy markets, but are often difficult to value using standard techniques due to their complexity and strong path-dependency. There are numerous interesting varieties of swing options, which differ in terms of their intermediate cash flows, and the constraints (both local and global) which they impose on early-exercise (swing) decisions. We introduce an efficient and general purpose transform-based method for pricing discrete and continuously monitored swing options under exponential Lévy models, which applies to contracts with fixed rights clauses, as well as recovery time delays between exercise. The approach combines dynamic programming with an efficient method for calculating the continuation value between monitoring dates, and applies generally to multiple early-exercise contracts, providing a unified framework for pricing a large class of exotic derivatives. Efficiency and accuracy of the method are supported by a series of numerical experiments which further provide benchmark prices for future research.
Invariant metrics on central extensions of quadratic Lie algebras
Authors: García-Delgado R. , Salgado G. , Sánchez-Valenzuela O. A.
Published: October 2019

A quadratic Lie algebra is a Lie algebra endowed with a symmetric, invariant and nondegenerate bilinear form; such a bilinear form is called an invariant metric. The aim of this work is to describe the general structure of those central extensions of quadratic Lie algebras which in turn have invariant metrics. The structure is such that the central extensions can be described algebraically in terms of the original quadratic Lie algebra, and geometrically in terms of the direct sum decompositions that the invariant metrics involved give rise to.
PSSP: Protein splice site prediction algorithm using Bayesian approach
Authors: Bahrami Abolfazl , Najafi Ali , Hashemi Mohammadreza , Miraie-Ashtiani Seyed Reza
Published: October 2019

This study aimed to introduce an algorithm and identify intein motif and blocks involved in protein splicing, and explore the underlying methods in the development of detection of protein motifs. Inteins are mobile protein splicing elements capable of self-splicing post-translationally. They exist in viruses and bacteriophage, notwithstanding this broad phylogenetic distribution, all inteins apportion common structural features. A method was developed to predict intein in a raw sequence, using a ranking and scoring scheme based on amino acid [Formula: see text] value tables. This method aided in the identification and assessment of patterns characterizing the intein sequences. New intein conserved properties are revealed and the known ones are described and localized. We have computed the [Formula: see text] value of each amino acid at block A positions [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text], block B positions [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] and block G positions [Formula: see text]7 to [Formula: see text] for the three categories. The consensus amino acids thus found are listed at the end of each row. We gave statistics for the distance between the blocks, block A to B, block B to F, and block F to G with the average being 66.1, 294, and 10.2 amino acids, respectively. The actual blocks A, B, and G of the one intein found in vacuolar membrane ATPase subunit, a precursor protein, are ranked 1. The results indicate all of the block sequences that are found in nine proteins are ranked at top of the list. The intein sequence is used to search the databases for intein-like proteins. Understanding the functional, structural, and dynamical aspects of inteins is important for intein engineering and the betterment of intein database.
A Robust Discontinuous Galerkin High-Order Finite Element Method for Elasticity Problems with Interfaces
Authors: Zhang Jianfei , Deng Xiaowei
Published: October 2019

A robust discontinuous Galerkin (DG) finite element method is proposed for elasticity problems with interfaces, where the continuity across the interfaces is weakly enforced by using Nitsche’s method. We employ a weighting for the interfacial consistency terms arising in the Nitsche variational form and present a detailed finite element formulation of this DG method. The stabilization parameter is evaluated by solving element level generalized eigenvalue problem for higher-order elements. Consequently, we give the choice of the weighting parameter that results in an estimate for the stabilization parameter such that the method remains well behaved in the pathological cases. The accuracy and robustness of the proposed method are then demonstrated through several numerical examples.