bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EEM-PARAFAC-SOM for assessing variation in the quality of dissolved organic matter: simultaneous detection of differences by source and season
Authors: Cuss Chad W. , Donner Mark W. , Noernberg Tommy , Pelletier Rick , Shotyk William
Published: May 2019

Environmental contextDissolved organic matter (DOM) is a highly diverse mixture of interacting compounds, which plays a key role in environmental processes in aquatic systems. The quality and functionality of DOM are measured using fluorescence spectroscopy, but established data analysis assumes linear behaviour, limiting the effectiveness of characterisation. We apply self-organising maps to fluorescence composition to improve the assessment of DOM quality and behaviour by visualising the interdependent nature of its components. AbstractSelf-organising maps (SOMs) were used to sort the excitation–emission matrices (EEMs) of dissolved organic matter (DOM) based on their multivariate ‘fluorescence composition’ (i.e. each parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC) component loading, viz. ‘Fmax’ value was expressed as a proportion of all Fmax values in each EEM). This sorting provided a simultaneous organisation of DOM according to differences in quality along a 125-km stretch of a large boreal river, corresponding with both source and season. The information provided by the SOM-based spatial organisation of samples was also used to assess the likelihood of PARAFAC model overfitting. Changes in fluorescence composition caused by changing salinity were also assessed for multiple sources. Seasonal and source-based differences were readily apparent for the main stem of the river and tributaries, and source-based differences were apparent in both fresh and saline groundwaters. Proportions of humic-like components were positively correlated with the amounts of bog, fen and swamp in tributary watersheds. Proportions of six PARAFAC components were negatively correlated with the proportions of all wetland types, and positively correlated with the proportions of open water and other land cover. Ancient saline groundwaters contained >50% protein-like DOM. There was no change in DOM quality from upstream to downstream in August or October. Increasing salinity was associated with additional protein-like fluorescence in all sources, but source-based differences were also apparent. The application of SOM to fluorescence composition is highly recommended for assessing and visualising transformations and differences in DOM quality, and relating them to associated properties.
An introduction to the CSIRO Oral History Collection
Authors: Wolff Helen A. , Healy Terence J. , Spurling Thomas H.
Published: May 2019

This paper describes a project to record specialised oral histories of key individuals involved with Australia’s principal scientific research organisation, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). The oral histories are intended to complement official governance documents in a larger project to write a history of CSIRO. Oral histories typically include perspectives on family backgrounds and childhood, professional training and career histories. Of particular interest in these interviews is the involvement of interviewees in the management of CSIRO and their reflections on the place of CSIRO in the Australian and international scientific environments. The interviews were conducted mainly by two of the authors (Spurling and Healy), both of whom were well known to the interviewees because they were themselves senior managers in CSIRO and familiar with the topics discussed. These histories are intended to illuminate important personal factors that have influenced decision-making in CSIRO. Also covered are plans to use other collections of interview materials in the CSIRO History Project (CHP), including those conducted by CSIRO historian Boris Schedvin, the Australian Academy of Science and the National Library of Australia. Details are provided of preparations for interviews, recording and transcription and preparation of materials for public access through CSIROpedia.
Ultrasonic additive manufacturing of 4130 steel using Ni interlayers
Authors: Kuo Chih-Hsiang , Sridharan Niyanth , Han Tianyang , Dapino Marcelo J. , Babu S. S.
Published: May 2019

Ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM) is a solid-state manufacturing process for making complex components. However, fabrication of ferritic (body centered cubic) steels has been challenging for UAM due to its high hardness. This research successfully joined AISI 4130 steel sheets by using soft Ni (face centered cubic) interlayers. The localisation of plastic deformation in the Ni-interlayer leads to a significant reduction in voids. A post-process heat-treatment was designed using thermodynamic calculations to dissolve nickel into steel matrix. Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy measurements showed ∼10 µm Ni from the interlayer diffused into the steel side, confirming the feasibility of the approach. The shear tests show a higher shear strength in comparison to as-processed 4130 without interlayers and post processed using hot isostatic pressing (HIP).
Changes in body position on the bike during seated sprint cycling: Applications to bike fitting
Authors: Bini Rodrigo , Daly Luke , Kingsley Michael
Published: May 2019

Dynamic bike fitting often includes the optimisation of lower limb joint kinematics while participants undertake sub‐maximal intensity cycling; however, this practice might not be appropriate for sprint cycling. This study aimed to determine if trained cyclists maintain lower limb angles, defined during dynamic sub‐maximal bike fitting, while completing seated sprint cycling. Fifteen competitive cyclists completed two testing sessions. Dynamic bike fitting was undertaken during the first session, where handlebar positions were identified to produce pre‐determined hip flexion angles (70°–110°) during sub‐maximal cycling using an inertial‐based motion tracking system. In the second session, full body kinematics were determined during two 6‐s sprints performed at each of the pre‐determined handlebar positions. During sprinting, measured right hip angles were only different at 110°, when compared with 90° (p < 0.01, d = 0.95), and 80° (p < 0.01, d = 1.49). For the left leg, measured hip angles differed between 110° vs. 90° (p < 0.01, d = 1.52), 110° vs. 80° (p < 0.01, d = 2.09), and 100° vs. 80° (p = 0.04, d = 1.06). Even though changes in bike configuration resulted in 10° increments of hip flexion during dynamic sub‐maximal bike fitting, these hip angles were not replicated during sprinting. Therefore, dynamic sub‐maximal bike fitting leading to changes in handlebar positions that produce hip angles of 80°–100° might not influence cycling performance due to acute changes in the body position of cyclists on the bicycle during a sprint.
Short‐time high‐intensity exercise increases peripheral BDNF in a physical fitness‐dependent way in healthy men
Authors: Antunes Barbara Moura , Rossi Fabrício Eduardo , Teixeira Ana Maria , Lira Fábio Santos
Published: May 2019

BDNF is associated with brain health and positively modulated by exercise; however, the influence of physical fitness status on BDNF is incipient. This study investigated the BDNF response after acute‐exercise sessions performed at low, moderate, and high intensities and the relationship between physical fitness status and BDNF response. Twenty‐eight men, divided according to physical fitness status (<50th or >50th percentile for VO2max), performed three randomised acute exercise sessions at low (90% of VT1), moderate (midpoint between VT1‐VT2), and high (midpoint between VT2‐Wmax) intensities until exhaustion or for up to 60 min. Lactate and BDNF were determined pre and post‐exercises. For BDNF, there were main effects of time (p = 0.003) and interaction (p < 0.001), showing an increase post high‐intensity exercise (p < 0.001). Changes in BDNF presented differences between conditions (p < 0.001) with greater increase in high‐intensity compared with the others (p = 0.003). For lactate, there were main effects of time (p < 0.001), condition (p < 0.001), and interaction (p < 0.001) with greater concentration in high‐intensity. High‐intensity exercise exhibited inverse correlation between the changes in BDNF and lactate (r=−0.38, p = 0.044). There was significant correlation between BDNF and VO2max for moderate (r = −0.57, p = 0.002) and a trend for high‐intensity condition (r = −0.37, p = 0.050) and when evaluating BDNF according to physical fitness level, it was observed that subjects with lower physical fitness levels had greater increases in BDNF in short‐time high‐intensity exercise (p = 0.041). In conclusion, short‐time high‐intensity exercise seems to be more efficient in increasing BDNF concentration, and physical fitness level influences this response, as healthy individuals with lower physical fitness levels were more responsive.
The effect of body size on countermovement jump kinetics in children aged 7–11 years
Authors: Jones Christopher Mark , McNarry Melitta Anne , Owen Nick John
Published: May 2019

The purpose this study was to examine the effect of body size on countermovement jump (CMJ) kinetics in children. Participants (n = 160) aged 7–11 years, divided equally by sex and into primary school year groups (years 3, 4, 5 and 6), each performed one CMJ on a force platform. The variables bodyweight (BW), peak force (Fmax), in‐jump minimum force (IMF), in‐jump vertical force range (IFR) and basic rate of force development (BRFD) were attained from the force‐time history and then subsequently scaled to account for body size. A significant age, sex and interaction effect were found for the absolute variables BW, IMF, Fmax and IFR (P < 0.05) between school year groups 3 and 4 against year's 5 and 6. Simple main effects highlighted no significant sex differences between the boys and girls for all variables (P > 0.05). No significant age or sex differences were observed for normalised or allometrically scaled values (P > 0.05). The results indicate that girls and boys can be grouped together but that body size must be accounted for to enable accurate conclusions to be drawn independent of growth. Body size significantly effects the representation of CMJ kinetic results and therefore, future studies should report both absolute and scaled values. Future research should develop an age‐appropriate criterion method for children in order to determine processed CMJ variables to further investigate the neuromuscular performance of children.
DNA Methylation Across the Serotonin Transporter Gene Following Marital Separation: A Pilot Study
Authors: Sbarra David A , Cook Chelsea C , Hasselmo Karen , Noon Muhammad S , Mehl Matthias R
Published: May 2019

In a sample of 47 adults following a recent marital separation, greater DNA methylation across the serotonin transporter gene was associated with less self-reported emotional distress.
Comparing Composite Scores for the ANAM4 TBI-MIL for Research in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Iverson Grant L , Ivins Brian J , Karr Justin E , Crane Paul K , Lange Rael T , Cole Wesley R , Silverberg Noah D
Published: May 2019

Objective

The Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (Version 4) Traumatic Brain Injury Military (ANAM4 TBI-MIL) is commonly administered among U.S. service members both pre-deployment and following TBI. The current study used the ANAM4 TBI-MIL to develop a cognition summary score for TBI research and clinical trials, comparing eight composite scores based on their distributions and sensitivity/specificity when differentiating between service members with and without mild TBI (MTBI).

Method

Male service members with MTBI (n = 56; Mdn = 11 days-since-injury) or no self-reported TBI history (n = 733) completed eight ANAM4 TBI-MIL tests. Their throughput scores (correct responses/minute) were used to calculate eight composite scores: the overall test battery mean (OTBM); global deficit score (GDS); neuropsychological deficit score-weighted (NDS-W); low score composite (LSC); number of scores <50th, ≤16th percentile, or ≤5th percentile; and the ANAM Composite Score (ACS).

Results

The OTBM and ACS were normally distributed. Other composites had skewed, zero-inflated distributions (62.9% had GDS = 0). All composites differed significantly between participants with and without MTBI (p < .001), with deficit scores showing the largest effect sizes (d = 1.32–1.47). The Area Under the Curve (AUC) was lowest for number of scores ≤5th percentile (AUC = 0.653) and highest for the LSC, OTBM, ACS, and NDS-W (AUC = 0.709–0.713).

Conclusions

The ANAM4 TBI-MIL has no well-validated composite score. The current study examined multiple candidate composite scores, finding that deficit scores showed larger group differences than the OTBM, but similar AUC values. The deficit scores were highly correlated. Future studies are needed to determine whether these scores show less redundancy among participants with more severe TBIs.
International Legal Scholarship and the Challenge of Digitalization
Authors: Altwicker Tilmann
Published: May 2019

The paper argues that digitalization primarily presents a methodological challenge for international legal scholarship. Three developments are relevant in this context: the datafication of law, computerized information retrieval, and the differentiation of legal knowledge. International legal scholarship has benefited from treating legal texts, legal relationships as well as legal interactions and decision-making “as data”. Typically, quantitative methods used on this data include text mining, network analysis, cluster analysis, and regression analysis. While data-driven scholarship cannot replace a hermeneutic approach to international law, it is likely to change the dimensionality of legal research, require adaptations of the law school curriculum, and enhance the interdisciplinary connectivity of international legal scholarship.
Technique and outcomes of 79 consecutive uniportal video-assisted sleeve lobectomies
Authors: Soultanis Konstantinos Marios , Chen Chao Ma , Chen Jian , Wu Liang , Yang Chenlu , Gonzalez-Rivas Diego , Abu Akar Firas , Jiang Gening , Jiang Lei
Published: May 2019

OBJECTIVES

Uniportal video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) is well accepted by surgeons for anatomical major lung resections. However, large series evaluating the results, safety and efficacy of the technique for sleeve resections are still lacking. The aim of this study was to examine our experience with the use of uniportal VATS for sleeve resections.

METHODS

From September 2014 to January 2018, a total of 79 consecutive patients were offered uniportal VATS sleeve resection for centrally located tumours invading the orifice of the lobar bronchus or extending into the main stem bronchus by a single surgical team of the Thoracic Surgery Department of the Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital. Perioperative data were collected and analysed. Survival data were collected via telephone calls.

RESULTS

Sixty-six of the 79 patients had a diagnosis of non-small-cell lung cancer, 47 of whom had squamous cell carcinoma. Twenty-one of the group with non-small-cell carcinoma were already at an advanced stage (III, IV) when operated on. The mean number of lymph node stations dissected was 5.5 ± 0.97 (4–8) and that of lymph nodes harvested was 13.7 ± 3.7 (5–23). A right upper lobectomy was the most common and time-consuming procedure. There was 1 conversion to a thoracotomy due to bleeding. No anastomotic-related complications were noted. The mean length of stay was 5.14 ± 1.56 (2–11) days. The 1- and 2-year survival rates were 98% and 80%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Uniportal VATS sleeve resection is a safe and efficient procedure for the treatment of centrally located tumours otherwise requiring a pneumonectomy.
Optimal Design of a Forest-Based Biomass Supply Chain Based on the Decision maker’s Viewpoint Towards Risk
Authors: Akhtari Shaghaygh , Sowlati Taraneh , Griess Verena C
Published: May 2019

Economic viability is one of the main considerations in bioenergy and biofuel projects and is impacted by uncertainty in biomass availability, cost, and quality, and bioenergy and biofuel demand and prices. One important aspect of decisionmaking under uncertainty is the viewpoint of the decision maker towards risk, which is overlooked in the biomass supply chain management literature. In this paper, we address this gap by evaluating alternative supply chain designs taking into account uncertain future conditions resulting from changes in biomass availability and cost, and bioproduct and energy prices. Three decision rules, maximax, minimax regret, and maximin, representing, respectively, optimistic, opportunistic, and pessimistic perspectives, are used for evaluation. It is assumed that the decision maker has knowledge about the potential future events, but the likelihood of their occurrence is unknown. According to the results of the case study, investment in bioenergy and biofuel conversion facilities was recommended based on optimistic and opportunistic viewpoints. Production of both bienergy and biofuels would not be profitable under pessimistic conditions. Therefore, investment in only bienergy facilities was prescribed under pessimistic conditions.
Patterns of drinking alcohol and intentions to binge drink among medical students in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thu Huong , White Katherine M , Sendall Marguerite C , Young Ross McD
Published: May 2019

Alcohol use is common among Vietnamese students. Previous qualitative findings showed Vietnamese medical students believed they were not binge drinkers while reporting many binge drinking occasions they participated in or witnessed. This dichotomy warrants examination. This study aims to establish drinking patterns and examine the factors underlying Vietnamese medical students’ binge drinking intention and behaviour. This study used a prospective-correlational design, with two waves of data collection, drawing from established health behaviour models. At Time 1, 206 students completed the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test, the standard Theory of Planned Behaviour measures (attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control) and their underlying beliefs, as well as group norm, role identity, drinking culture and past binge drinking behaviour. At Time 2, 156 medical students reported their binge drinking behaviour 2 weeks later. Only 6.8% of participants were classified as problematic drinkers and few participants reported binge drinking occasions at the 2-week follow-up. Perceived behavioural control, friends’ group norms, role identity as future doctors, and past behaviour significantly predicted binge drinking intentions and key beliefs were identified. This study indicated Vietnamese medical students’ limited engagement with binge drinking and identified key factors to address for those with risky drinking behaviour intentions.
Why the Static Allometry of Sexually-Selected Traits Is So Variable: The Importance of Function
Authors: Rodríguez Rafael Lucas , Eberhard William G
Published: May 2019

Sexually-selected traits often show positive static allometry, with large individuals bearing disproportionately large structures. But many other sexually-selected traits show isometry or even negative allometry, with trait size varying relatively little with body size. We recently proposed that the functions of these traits (as aggressive signals, weapons, courtship signals, and contact courtship devices) determine their allometries. Positive allometry is generally favored for aggressive signals because aggressive signals are selected to emphasize body size (and thus fighting prowess). In contrast, the biomechanics of force application in weapons only sometimes select for positive allometry; the content of courtship signals is even less often related to body size; and contact courtship devices are selected to be relatively invariant across body sizes. Here we summarize the arguments in favor of this “functional allometry” hypothesis and expand a comparative test of its predictions. Our results indicate that sexual traits have the allometric slopes predicted by our hypothesis, regardless of which body part bears the structure.
Efficiency and safety of TachoSil® in the treatment of postoperative air leakage following pulmonary surgery: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhou Jian , Lyu Mengyuan , Pang Long , Gao Yuanjing , Ning Kang , Wang Zihuai , Liu Lunxu
Published: May 2019

TachoSil® was cost-effective and safe in preventing postoperative air leakage for the patients undergoing pulmonary surgery.
Fourth Moment Structure of Markov Switching Multivariate GARCH Models
Authors: Cavicchioli Maddalena
Published: May 2019

We derive sufficient conditions for the existence of second and fourth moments of Markov switching multivariate generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedastic processes in the general vector specification. We provide matrix expressions in closed form for such moments, which are obtained by using a Markov switching vector autoregressive moving-average representation of the initial process. These expressions are shown to be readily programmable in addition of greatly reducing the computational cost. As theoretical applications of the results, we derive the spectral density matrix of the squares and cross products, propose a new definition of multivariate kurtosis measure to recognize heavy-tailed features in financial real data, and provide a matrix expression in closed form of the impulse-response function for the volatility. An empirical example illustrates the results.
Late Pleistocene climate change and population dynamics of Japanese Myodes voles inferred from mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences
Authors: Honda Asuka , Murakami Shota , Harada Masashi , Tsuchiya Kimiyuki , Kinoshita Gohta , Suzuki Hitoshi
Published: May 2019

The Japanese archipelago is comprised of four main islands—Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu—which contain high mountainous areas that likely allowed for lineage differentiation and population genetic structuring during the climatic changes of the late Pleistocene. Here, we assess the historical background of the evolutionary dynamics of herbivorous red-backed voles (Myodes) in Japan, examining the evolutionary trends of mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (Cytb) sequence variation. Four apparent signals from rapid expansion events were detected in three species, M. rufocanus and M. rutilus from Hokkaido and M. smithii from central Honshu. Taken together with results from previous studies on Japanese wood mice (Apodemus spp.), three of the expansion events were considered to be associated with predicted bottleneck events at the marine isotope stage (MIS) 4 period, in which glaciers are thought to have expanded extensively, especially at higher elevations. In the late Pleistocene, the possible candidates are transitions MIS 6/5, MIS 4/3, and MIS 2/1, which can be characterized by the cold periods of the penultimate glacial maximum, MIS 4, and the last glacial maximum, respectively. Our data further reveal the genetic footprints of repeated range expansion and contraction in the northern and southern lineages of the vole species currently found in central Honshu, namely M. andersoni and M. smithii, in response to climatic oscillation during the late Pleistocene. The time-dependent evolutionary rates of the mitochondrial Cytb presented here would provide a possible way for assessing population dynamics of cricetid rodents responding to the late Pleistocene environmental fluctuation.
Compassionate Use of Letermovir in a 2-Year-Old Immunocompromised Child With Resistant Cytomegalovirus Disease
Authors: Pérez Marín Maria , Decosterd Laurent Arthur , Andre Pascal , Buclin Thierry , Mercier Thomas , Murray Kristina , Rizzi Mattia , Meylan Pascal , Jaton-Ogay Katia , Opota Onya , Gengler Carole , Perez Marie-Hélène , Natterer Julia , Asner Sandra Andrea
Published: May 2019

Little information on the efficacy and pharmacokinetics of letermovir among immunocompromised children is currently available. We describe here the use of letermovir in a 2-year-old immunocompromised child with ganciclovir-resistant cytomegalovirus disease who required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Detailed information on therapeutic-drug-monitoring measures and dosage adjustments for letermovir is provided.
The Masquelet induced-membrane technique: an option for a tertiary-referral conflict setting
Authors: Ley Paul , Gosselin Richard A , Villar Richard
Published: May 2019

A post-traumatic, infected, non-union of a long bone is a significant challenge to orthopaedic surgeons, especially in zones of conflict and humanitarian settings. We describe a 32-year-old man treated with the two-stage Masquelet procedure for an infected non-union, and the processes required to achieve clinical bony union. The initial injury was a gunshot wound through the left proximal tibia, which lay untreated for three months before the first definitive surgical procedure. Subsequent management required 13 procedures over 18 months with clinical union being achieved 4.5 years after wounding. The management of an infected non-union of a long bone in zones of conflict is difficult. However, a successful outcome is still possible and the Masquelet procedure a suitable choice; amputation is not always the correct solution. There is a need in the humanitarian sector for healthcare facilities within easy reach of a zone of conflict that can undertake complex reconstructive procedures.
Linear bias forecasts for emission line cosmological surveys
Authors: Merson Alexander , Smith Alex , Benson Andrew , Wang Yun , Baugh Carlton
Published: May 2019

We forecast the linear bias for  Hα-emitting galaxies at high redshift. To simulate a Euclid-like and a WFIRST-like survey, we place galaxies into a large-volume dark matter halo lightcone by sampling a library of luminosity-dependent halo occupation distributions (HODs), which is constructed using a physically motivated galaxy formation model. We calibrate the dust attenuation in the lightcones such that they are able to reproduce the  Hα luminosity function or the  Hα cumulative number counts. The angle-averaged galaxy correlation function is computed for each survey in redshift slices of width Δ z = 0.2. In each redshift bin the linear bias can be fitted with a single, scale-independent value that increases with increasing redshift. Fitting for the evolution of linear bias with redshift, we find that our Euclid-like and WFIRST-like surveys are both consistent within error with the relation b(z) = 0.7z + 0.7. Our bias forecasts are consistent with bias measurements from the HiZELS survey. We find that the Euclid-like and WFIRST-like surveys yield linear biases that are broadly consistent within error, most likely due to the HOD for the WFIRST-like survey having a steeper power-law slope towards larger halo masses.
Accounting for multiplicity in calculating eta Earth
Authors: Zink Jon K , Hansen Bradley M S
Published: May 2019

Using the updated exoplanet population parameters of our previous study, which includes the planetary radius updates from Gaia DR2 and an inferred multiplicity distribution, we provide a revised η⊕ calculation. This is achieved by sampling planets from our derived population model and determining which planets meet our criterion for habitability. To ensure robust results, we provide probabilities calculated over a range of upper radius limits. Our most optimistic criterion for habitability provides an η⊕ value of $0.34\pm 0.02 \frac{\rm planets}{\rm star}$. We also consider the effects of multiplicity and the number of habitable planets each system may contain. Our calculation indicates that $6.4\pm 0.5{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of GK dwarfs have more than one planet within their habitable zone. This optimistic habitability criterion also suggests that $0.036\pm 0.009{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of solar-like stars will harbour five or more habitable planets. These tightly packed highly habitable systems should be extremely rare, but still possible. Even with our most pessimistic criterion, we still expect that $1.8\pm 0.2{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of solar-like stars harbour more than one habitable planet.
The mass-loss, expansion velocities, and dust production rates of carbon stars in the Magellanic Clouds
Authors: Nanni Ambra , Groenewegen Martin A T , Aringer Bernhard , Rubele Stefano , Bressan Alessandro , van Loon Jacco Th , Goldman Steven R , Boyer Martha L
Published: May 2019

The properties of carbon stars in the Magellanic Clouds (MCs) and their total dust production rates are predicted by fitting their spectral energy distributions (SED) over pre-computed grids of spectra reprocessed by dust. The grids are calculated as a function of the stellar parameters by consistently following the growth for several dust species in their circumstellar envelopes, coupled with a stationary wind. Dust radiative transfer is computed taking as input the results of the dust growth calculations. The optical constants for amorphous carbon are selected in order to reproduce different observations in the infrared and optical bands of Gaia Data Release 2. We find a tail of extreme mass-losing carbon stars in the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) with low gas-to-dust ratios that is not present in the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC). Typical gas-to-dust ratios are around 700 for the extreme stars, but they can be down to ∼160–200 and ∼100 for a few sources in the SMC and in the LMC, respectively. The total dust production rate for the carbon star population is ∼1.77 ± 0.45 × 10−5 M⊙ yr−1, for the LMC, and ∼2.52 ± 0.96 × 10−6 M⊙ yr−1, for the SMC. The extreme carbon stars observed with the Atacama Large Millimeter Array and their wind speed are studied in detail. For the most dust-obscured star in this sample the estimated mass-loss rate is ∼6.3 × 10−5 M⊙ yr−1. The grids of spectra are available at:1 and included in the SED-fitting python package for fitting evolved stars.2
Caver Web 1.0: identification of tunnels and channels in proteins and analysis of ligand transport
Authors: Stourac Jan , Vavra Ondrej , Kokkonen Piia , Filipovic Jiri , Pinto Gaspar , Brezovsky Jan , Damborsky Jiri , Bednar David
Published: May 2019

Caver Web 1.0 is a web server for comprehensive analysis of protein tunnels and channels, and study of the ligands’ transport through these transport pathways. Caver Web is the first interactive tool allowing both the analyses within a single graphical user interface. The server is built on top of the abundantly used tunnel detection tool Caver 3.02 and CaverDock 1.0 enabling the study of the ligand transport. The program is easy-to-use as the only required inputs are a protein structure for a tunnel identification and a list of ligands for the transport analysis. The automated guidance procedures assist the users to set up the calculation in a way to obtain biologically relevant results. The identified tunnels, their properties, energy profiles and trajectories for ligands’ passages can be calculated and visualized. The tool is very fast (2–20 min per job) and is applicable even for virtual screening purposes. Its simple setup and comprehensive graphical user interface make the tool accessible for a broad scientific community. The server is freely available at https://loschmidt.chemi.muni.cz/caverweb.
Single-molecule visualization of the effects of ionic strength and crowding on structure-mediated interactions in supercoiled DNA molecules
Authors: Scott Shane , Shaheen Cynthia , McGuinness Brendon , Metera Kimberly , Kouzine Fedor , Levens David , Benham Craig J , Leslie Sabrina
Published: May 2019

DNA unwinding is an important cellular process involved in DNA replication, transcription and repair. In cells, molecular crowding caused by the presence of organelles, proteins, and other molecules affects numerous internal cellular structures. Here, we visualize plasmid DNA unwinding and binding dynamics to an oligonucleotide probe as functions of ionic strength, crowding agent concentration, and crowding agent species using single-molecule CLiC microscopy. We demonstrate increased probe–plasmid interaction over time with increasing concentration of 8 kDa polyethylene glycol (PEG), a crowding agent. We show decreased probe–plasmid interactions as ionic strength is increased without crowding. However, when crowding is introduced via 10% 8 kDa PEG, interactions between plasmids and oligos are enhanced. This is beyond what is expected for normal in vitro conditions, and may be a critically important, but as of yet unknown, factor in DNA’s proper biological function in vivo. Our results show that crowding has a strong effect on the initial concentration of unwound plasmids. In the dilute conditions used in these experiments, crowding does not impact probe–plasmid interactions once the site is unwound.
M1CR0B1AL1Z3R—a user-friendly web server for the analysis of large-scale microbial genomics data
Authors: Avram Oren , Rapoport Dana , Portugez Shir , Pupko Tal
Published: May 2019

Large-scale mining and analysis of bacterial datasets contribute to the comprehensive characterization of complex microbial dynamics within a microbiome and among different bacterial strains, e.g., during disease outbreaks. The study of large-scale bacterial evolutionary dynamics poses many challenges. These include data-mining steps, such as gene annotation, ortholog detection, sequence alignment and phylogeny reconstruction. These steps require the use of multiple bioinformatics tools and ad-hoc programming scripts, making the entire process cumbersome, tedious and error-prone due to manual handling. This motivated us to develop the M1CR0B1AL1Z3R web server, a ‘one-stop shop’ for conducting microbial genomics data analyses via a simple graphical user interface. Some of the features implemented in M1CR0B1AL1Z3R are: (i) extracting putative open reading frames and comparative genomics analysis of gene content; (ii) extracting orthologous sets and analyzing their size distribution; (iii) analyzing gene presence–absence patterns; (iv) reconstructing a phylogenetic tree based on the extracted orthologous set; (v) inferring GC-content variation among lineages. M1CR0B1AL1Z3R facilitates the mining and analysis of dozens of bacterial genomes using advanced techniques, with the click of a button. M1CR0B1AL1Z3R is freely available at https://microbializer.tau.ac.il/.
Opioid Use and Rate of Nicotine Metabolism Among Pregnant Smokers
Authors: Oncken Cheryl , Mead Erin L , Dornelas Ellen A , Kuo Chia-Ling , Sankey Heather Z , Kranzler Henry R , Thurlow Sheila
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Smokers who use opioids smoke more cigarettes per day (CPD) than non-opioid users, which could be due to the effects of opioids on nicotine metabolism. Moreover, nicotine metabolism increases during pregnancy, potentially making quitting more difficult for pregnant smokers. We examined nicotine metabolism and its association with opioid use (OU) and CPD in pregnant smokers.

Methods

We recruited pregnant women who smoked at least 5 CPD for a clinical trial of smoking cessation. Plasma nicotine metabolite ratio (NMR; trans-3′-hydroxycotinine (3HC)/cotinine)—a biomarker of nicotine metabolism—OU (involving methadone, buprenorphine, fentanyl, oxycodone, or tramadol), and CPD were assessed at baseline. We used linear regression to examine the associations between log-transformed NMR, OU, and CPD, adjusting for race/ethnicity and menthol smoking.

Results

Among 129 pregnant smokers, 25 (19%) were opioid users; most were maintained on methadone (n = 14). Compared to non-OU smokers, OU smokers had higher median CPD (10.0 vs. 7.0, p = .0007), serum 3HC (81.0 vs. 42.0 ng/mL, p = .0001), and NMR (0.63 vs. 0.43, p < .0001). In addition, methadone-maintained smokers had a higher median NMR than non-OU smokers (0.66 vs. 0.43, p = .0004). Adjusting for covariates, log-transformed NMR was greater in OU smokers (p = .012), specifically methadone-maintained smokers (p = .024), than non-OU smokers.

Conclusions

Our preliminary results show that OU is associated with a higher NMR in pregnant smokers. A larger study sample is needed to replicate this finding, examine potential mechanisms, and determine its clinical significance.

Implications

Among pregnant smokers, we observed that nicotine metabolism was significantly faster among opioid users—the majority of whom were on methadone maintenance—compared to nonusers, which could have implications for smoking cessation. Further studies are needed to replicate this finding, evaluate potential mechanisms, and determine its clinical significance.
Evaluation of a Screening Method for the Detection of Colistin-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae in Stool
Authors: Turbett Sarah E , Desrosiers Lisa , Andrews-Dunleavey Catherine , Becker Margaret , Walker Allison Taylor , Esposito Douglas , Woodworth Kate Russell , Branda John A , Rosenberg Eric , Ryan Edward T , LaRocque Regina
Published: May 2019

Emergence of mobile colistin resistance (mcr)–containing Enterobacteriaceae is a public health threat, prompting enhanced surveillance through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We evaluated a selective culture medium for the isolation of Enterobacteriaceae with non-wild-type colistin minimum inhibitory concentrations, including those with mcr-1 genes, in spiked stool samples.
Evidence for enhanced Bruton’s tyrosine kinase activity in transitional and naïve B cells of patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis
Authors: von Borstel Anouk , Abdulahad Wayel H , Sanders Jan Stephan , Rip Jasper , Neys Stefan F H , Hendriks Rudi W , Stegeman Coen A , Heeringa Peter , Rutgers Abraham , Corneth Odilia B J
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To determine Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) protein and phosphorylation levels in B cell subsets of granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) patients and to investigate the effect of BTK blockade on in vitro B cell cytokine production, subset distribution and (auto)antibody production.

Methods

BTK protein and phosphorylation levels were determined by flow cytometry in peripheral blood B cells of 29 untreated GPA patients [9 active and 20 remission GPA patients (10 ANCA– and 10 ANCA+)], 9 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs) and 9 untreated active RA patients. The effect of BTK blockade on in vitro B cell cytokine production, subset distribution and (auto)antibody production was determined in the same donors in peripheral blood mononuclear cell cultures.

Results

BTK protein levels were significantly increased in transitional and naïve B cells of active GPA and RA patients compared with remission GPA patients and HCs. Both B cell subsets of active patients were more sensitive to B cell receptor stimulation, as BTK and phospholipase Cγ2 phosphorylation were increased in these patients. In vitro BTK blockade had profound effects on B cell cytokine production, plasma cell formation and (auto)antibody production in both GPA patients and HCs. Interestingly, the effect of BTK blockade was less pronounced in active GPA patients, possibly due to increased activation of B cells.

Conclusion

We show that BTK protein and phosphorylation levels are most profoundly increased in newly emerging B cells of active GPA patients compared with remission patients. BTK blockade greatly inhibits in vitro B cell effector functions in GPA patients and HCs. These promising data identify BTK as an interesting novel therapeutic target in the treatment of GPA.
The inherently democratic nature of technology assessment
Authors: Grunwald Armin
Published: May 2019

Technology assessment (TA) emerged more than fifty years ago to provide information supply, decision support, and orientation for democratic processes and institutions in many democratic countries. This historical observation alone, however, does not justify speaking of an inherent relationship between TA and democracy. The latter requires taking a conceptual view. Arguments supporting the thesis of the inherently democratic nature of TA will be given based on pragmatist approaches developed by John Dewey and Jürgen Habermas. This perspective on TA has specific implications for the inclusion of the knowledge and perspectives of stakeholders, people affected and citizens involved in TA processes, as well as the necessity to develop or strengthen thinking in alternative options. Furthermore, it makes clear that in the current crisis of democracy in many countries, TA cannot take a distant and neutral position.
Parental PM2.5 Exposure-Promoted Development of Metabolic Syndrome in Offspring Is Associated With the Changes of Immune Microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Jia , Zeng Xuejiao , Du Xihao , Pan Kun , Song Liying , Song Weimin , Xie Yuquan , Zhao Jinzhuo
Published: May 2019

Parental exposure to ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been associated with some of adverse health outcomes in offspring. The association between parental PM2.5 exposure and the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in offspring, and the effects of parental PM2.5 exposure on the susceptibility of offspring mice to PM2.5, has not been evaluated. The C57BL/6 parental mice (male and female mice) were exposed to filtered air (FA) or concentrated PM2.5 (PM) using Shanghai-METAS for a total of 16 weeks. At week 12 during the exposure, we allowed the parental male and female mice to breed offspring mice. The male offspring mice were divided into 4 groups and exposed to PM and FA again. The results showed that whether the parental mice were exposed to PM2.5 or not, the offspring mice exposure to PM2.5 appeared the elevation of blood pressure, insulin resistance, impairment of glucose tolerance, and dyslipidemia when compared to the offspring mice exposure to FA. More importantly, no matter what the offspring mice were exposed to, parental PM exposure overwhelmingly impacted the fasting blood insulin, homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance, serous low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and total cholesterol, splenic T helper cell 17 (Th17) and Treg cells, serous interleukin (IL)-17A, IL-6, and IL-10 in offspring mice. The results suggested that the parental exposure to air pollution might induce the development of MetS in offspring and might enhance the susceptibility of offspring to environmental hazards. The effects of parental PM exposure on offspring might be related to the changes of immune microenvironment.
Gabapentin for Peri-operative Pain Management for Office Uterine Aspiration: A Randomized Controlled Trial [10H]
Authors: Gray Beverly , Hagey Jill , Crabtree Donna , Weber Jeremy , Pieper Carl , Haddad Lisa
Published: May 2019

INTRODUCTION:

Gabapentin, used to treat neuropathic and chronic pain, has also been used to reduce post-surgical pain in a variety of clinical settings. We investigated if the addition of gabapentin to the routine oral sedation regimen would reduce peri-operative pain from uterine aspiration.

METHODS:

IRB approval and informed consent were obtained. We enrolled patients seeking first trimester uterine aspiration with oral sedation in a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial to receive placebo or 600 mg of oral gabapentin in addition to oral sedation and paracervical block. Our primary outcome was pain 5-minutes after procedure measured on a VAS (100 mm) pain scale. Secondary outcomes measured included pain at a variety of time points, post-operative pain medication use, anxiety and nausea. This study was powered to detect a 16 mm difference in pain. To assess the effect of gabapentin at the 5-minute post-op assessment, we fit a linear regression controlling for baseline pain.

RESULTS:

96 patients were randomized (95 completed study protocol). Patients receiving gabapentin reported similar pain scores compared to placebo at the 5-minute post-op assessment (p = 0.56). Anxiety measures were similar between groups at several time points. Gabapentin was well-tolerated and side effects were similar between groups. 15% of women receiving gabapentin versus 31% receiving placebo recorded using narcotic pain medication within 24 hours of the procedure (p = 0.06).

CONCLUSION:

Gabapentin did not have a significant effect on the 5-minute post-operative pain measurement or anxiety. The trend toward decreased opioid usage in the post-operative period amongst the gabapentin users warrants future investigation.
Attempted and Successful VBAC Across Geographic Areas in the United States [25H]
Authors: Greene Madelyne , Hsiang-Hui Daphne Kuo , Hartenbach Ellen , Shrider Emily , Ehrenthal Deborah
Published: May 2019

INTRODUCTION:

Rates of Cesarean delivery continue to increase in the US and globally. Efforts to reduce the number of unnecessary Cesarean sections include renewed support for vaginal birth after Cesarean (VBAC). Previous research has demonstrated that trends in trial of labor after Cesarean (TOLAC) and successful VBAC may differ across geographic areas.

METHODS:

Using combined 2014 and 2015 national vital statistics data, we describe rates of attempted (TOLAC) and successful VBAC among low-risk (term, singleton, vertex), in-hospital births occurring in counties across the NCHS 6-level rural-urban measurement classification. Using logistic regression modeling, we describe patterns in TOLAC and VBAC rates across geographic areas, both unadjusted and adjusted for demographic characteristics, health services use (e.g. WIC, prenatal care), and medical risk factors. The UW-Madison IRB exempted this study.

RESULTS:

There were 153,758 documented attempted VBAC deliveries in 2014 and 2015, with an overall VBAC success rate of 72.0%. Rates of both any TOLAC and successful VBAC were significantly lower among institutions in more rural areas across the country (TOLAC unadjusted OR 0.543, 95% CI 0.461-0.506, and VBAC unadjusted OR 0.463, 95% CI 0.437-0.489 in rural county hospitals compared to large metropolitan centers). Controlling for various factors did not substantially alter these patterns.

CONCLUSION:

Hospitals in more rural areas in the US may be less likely to attempt TOLAC and successfully deliver via VBAC. Hospitals in different geographic areas may have vastly different access to resources and specialists that can support VBAC and high-quality clinical decision making to reduce the number of unnecessary Cesarean sections.
Baby Boxes and Breastfeeding: A Study of the Impact of Safe Sleeping Environments on Infant Feeding Method [26H]
Authors: Pantoja Rachel , Herrine Gail , Zhao Huaquing , Swiecki-Sikora Allison Leigh , Kiani Kayvon , Datwani Hema
Published: May 2019

INTRODUCTION:

The benefits of breastfeeding for both a newborn and mother are well established. Parents often co-sleep with their children for ease of breastfeeding. However, co-sleeping is associated with sleep-related deaths. To alleviate this burden, Temple University Hospital (TUH) provided all newly delivered mothers with a Baby Box, a box with a firm mattress, for a safe sleeping environment. The purpose of this project was to study the impact of a safe sleeping environment on breastfeeding rates.

METHODS:

This is a retrospective study of patients between May 2016 and May 2018 who delivered at TUH and were provided a Baby Box prior to hospital discharge. A phone survey was performed after discharge. Categorical variables were analyzed using Pearson chi-squared test. This study on review by the TUH IRB was given exempt status.

RESULTS:

Of 4,394 eligible women, 26% reported exclusive breastfeeding of their infant. Approximately 26% of those exclusively breastfeeding reported using the Baby Box for infant sleep, and 54% reported that breastfeeding was easier while using the Baby Box. Approximately 32% of those who exclusively breastfed reported co-sleeping with their infant. There was no statistically significant difference between feeding method and use of the Baby Box.

CONCLUSION:

With the use of the baby box, the number of participants exclusively breastfeeding was low. Of those who exclusively breastfeed, there was a high rate of co-sleeping, despite being provided with a safe sleeping environment. This study demonstrates the need for continued efforts to promote breastfeeding and safe sleeping in this patient population.