bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined administration of microdoses of growth hormone and erythropoietin: Effects on performance and evaluation of GH detection capability using anti‐doping methods
Authors: Marchand Alexandre , Martin Jean‐Antoine , Collot David , Hoang Olivier , Roulland Ingrid , Semence Florian , Sottas Pierre‐Edouard , Audran Michel , Varlet‐Marie Emmanuelle
Published: July 2019

The combination of growth hormone (GH) and recombinant erythropoietin (rEPO) is thought to be used particularly in endurance sports. Our objective was to reproduce a 2‐week administration of rEPO microdoses alone or in combination with GH microdoses (three times a week) on healthy and athletic male subjects and to evaluate if GH had any additional effects compared to EPO treatment alone. The effects of the treatments on hematological parameters and VO2max were studied as well as the detection of GH in serum. While the rEPO microdose regimen was associated with a significant increase in reticulocytes, no clear elevation in hemoglobin concentration (HGB) was observed. Using a correction by plasma volume did not reveal more effects of EPO on HGB. Our results did not show any additional effect when the GH microdoses were co‐administered. In addition, no clear increase in VO2max was observed after treatment, with an elevation in only half the subjects in both groups (EPO and EPO+GH). A clear effect of GH on insulin‐like growth factor I (IGF‐I) was seen but it was lower on procollagen III amino‐terminal propeptide (P‐III‐NP). GH detection using the direct isoform test identified only one subject 24 hours after receiving GH. The GH biomarker test combining IGF‐I and P‐III‐NP was not able to detect the GH administration. However, a longitudinal follow‐up of the intraindividual variations showed a significant increase in IGF‐I 24 and 48 hours after GH administration in most subjects, while the effect of GH microdoses on P‐III‐NP was less straightforward.
Are traded forest tree seeds a potential source of nonnative pests?
Authors: Franić Iva , Prospero Simone , Hartmann Martin , Allan Eric , Auger‐Rozenberg Marie‐Anne , Grünwald Niklaus J. , Kenis Marc , Roques Alain , Schneider Salome , Sniezko Richard , Williams Wyatt , Eschen René
Published: July 2019

The international seed trade is considered relatively safe from a phytosanitary point of view and is therefore less regulated than trade in other plants for planting. However, the pests carried by traded seeds are not well known. We assessed insects and fungi in 58 traded seed lots of 11 gymnosperm and angiosperm tree species from North America, Europe, and Asia. Insects were detected by X‐raying and molecular methods. The fungal community was characterized using high‐throughput sequencing (HTS) and by growing fungi on non‐selective agar. About 30% of the seed lots contained insect larvae. Gymnosperms contained mostly hymenopteran (Megastigmus spp.) and dipteran (Cecidomyiidae) larvae, while angiosperms contained lepidopteran (Cydia latiferreana) and coleopteran (Curculio spp.) larvae. HTS indicated the presence of fungi in all seed lots and fungi grew on non‐selective agar from 96% of the seed lots. Fungal abundance and diversity were much higher than insect diversity and abundance, especially in angiosperm seeds. Almost 50% of all fungal exact sequence variants (ESVs) found in angiosperms were potential pathogens, in comparison with around 30% of potentially pathogenic ESVs found in gymnosperms. The results of this study indicate that seeds may pose a greater risk of pest introduction than previously believed or accounted for. A rapid risk assessment suggests that only a small number of species identified in this study is of phytosanitary concern. However, more research is needed to enable better risk assessment, especially to increase knowledge about the potential for transmission of fungi to seedlings and the host range and impact of identified species.
The influence of gender and body dissatisfaction on body‐related attentional bias: An eye‐tracking and virtual reality study
Authors: Porras‐Garcia Bruno , Ferrer‐Garcia Marta , Ghita Alexandra , Moreno Manuel , López‐Jiménez Laura , Vallvé‐Romeu Alba , Serrano‐Troncoso Eduardo , Gutiérrez‐Maldonado José
Published: July 2019

Objective

In the attentional bias (AB) phenomenon, eating disorder (ED) patients show a tendency to pay more attention to self‐attributed unattractive body parts than to other body parts. However, little research has focused on gender differences in body‐related attention, controlling for body dissatisfaction (BD). This study aimed to assess gender differences in AB toward specific weight‐ or nonweight‐related body parts using a virtual reality (VR)‐based embodiment technique and an eye‐tracking AB assessment.

Method

Forty‐five women (23 with high BD and 22 with low BD) and 40 men (20 with high BD and 20 with low BD) were subsequently embodied in three virtual avatars, the first based on the participant's actual measurements, the second being larger than the participant, and the third being the same as the first avatar. The number of fixations and complete fixation time on weight‐related areas of interest (W‐AOIs) and nonweight‐related areas of interest (NW‐AOIs) were recorded for the three assessment time/avatars.

Results

The results showed a statistically significant interaction between gender and time for total fixation time and number of fixations (p < .05). BD levels did not significantly affect the results. Overall, women paid more attention to the W‐AOIs than men, who in turn paid more attention to the NW‐AOIs. Furthermore, preliminary evidence was found for an AB toward muscular‐related AOIs among men.

Conclusions

This study provides new information about gender differences and BD in gaze pattern behaviors. Future psychological ED assessments and treatments could take advantage of the possibilities of VR while real‐time AB is objectively measured.
Rapid nitrogen fixation by canopy microbiome in tropical forest determined by both phosphorus and molybdenum
Authors: Stanton Daniel E. , Batterman Sarah A. , Von Fischer Joseph C. , Hedin Lars O.
Published: July 2019

Biological nitrogen fixation is critical for the nitrogen cycle of tropical forests, yet we know little about the factors that control the microbial nitrogen fixers that colonize the microbiome of leaves and branches that make up a forest canopy. Forest canopies are especially prone to nutrient limitation because they are (1) disconnected from soil nutrient pools and (2) often subject to leaching. Earlier studies have suggested a role of phosphorus and molybdenum in controlling biological N‐fixation rates, but experimental confirmation has hitherto been unavailable. Here we present the results of a manipulation of canopy nutrient availability. Our findings demonstrate a primary role of phosphorus in constraining overall N fixation by canopy cyanobacteria, but also a secondary role of molybdenum in determining per‐cell fixation rates. A conservative evaluation suggests that canopy fixation can contribute to significant N fluxes at the ecosystem level, especially as bursts following atmospheric inputs of nutrient‐rich dust.
Improved Quality Absorber Layer of I–III–VI2 Compound Semiconductors: Purification Process Revisited
Authors: Sharma Shailesh Narain , Chawla Parul , Nutan Gautam V. , Vijayan Narayanasamy , Singh Vidyanand , Srivastava Avinash Kumar , Vashishtha Parth
Published: July 2019

Copper–indium–gallium–selenide (CIGSe) is one of the most stable and promising materials for photovoltaic applications. Herein, the synthesis process of CIGSe nanocrystals using a tri‐octyl phosphine/tri‐octyl phosphine oxide (TOP/TOPO) method that has the shortest duration (≈45 min), as compared to other nonvacuum‐based approaches, is reported. Most solution‐based approaches are Se‐deficient and therefore utilize a post‐selenization process such as rapid thermal processing (RTP) at a high temperature to form CIGSe. RTP creates voids and defects in CIGSe films. The synthesis process does not need post‐selenization processes as it is not Se‐deficient. It also includes the purification and processing techniques of these CIGSe nanocrystals for a variety of printing and coating techniques. The purification process offers improved charge transport between CIGSe nanocrystals for the realization of efficient photovoltaic device without resorting to soda lime glass (SLG), post‐deposition thermal selenization, or harsh chemical treatments. In addition, this process avoids the incidence of contamination, such as with copper selenide and amorphous carbon, which is a common issue in solution‐based techniques, and thus provides high‐purity CIGSe ink. To identify the effects of the purification process, the synthesized ink is qualitatively and quantitatively characterized before and after each purification step.
Simulating real compartment fire conditions in a furnace
Authors: Hasburgh Laura E. , Bourne Keith J. , Stone Donald S. , Zelinka Samuel L.
Published: July 2019

In the United States, wood has been traditionally used in residential construction. However, the combustibility of wood still limits its use as a building material in prescriptive building codes, and to overcome the limitations, performance‐based codes can be used. In order to properly analyze performance‐based designs, more information on the fire performance of materials is required, including fire performance under different fire exposures. The char rate when timber elements are exposed to the standard time‐temperature curve have been well characterized and can be used to determine the fire‐resistance rating. However, much less is known about the rate of char formation under other fire exposures and time‐temperature curves. In this study, we used time‐temperature data from full‐scale compartment fire tests and applied that data in an intermediate‐scale horizontal furnace. By measuring the furnace temperature, fuel consumption, and heat flux during the various tests, we identified that the furnace could closely replicate the shape of a real time‐temperature fire curve from a ventilation controlled compartment. However, the furnace fell short in terms of meeting the peak temperatures at flashover and heat fluxes expected in a real compartment fire.
Comprehensive management of HPV‐related squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck of unknown primary
Authors: Rassy Elie , Nicolai Piero , Pavlidis Nicholas
Published: July 2019

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related squamous cell carcinoma of unknown primary (SCCUP) is currently rising in incidence but lacks a validated management approach.

Aims

This paper reviews the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of HPV‐related SCCUP.

Materials and Methods

The Medline/Pubmed database was searched by using the following keywords “CUP”, “cancer of unknown primary”, “HPV”, “human papilloma virus”, and “head and neck”. The references of the publications of interest were also screened for relevant papers.

Results

The clinical assessment of HPV‐related SCCUP includes a complete clinical examination, an endoscopic evaluation with white‐light and narrow band imaging, and radiologic assessment using morphologic and metabolic imaging. If the diagnosis remains unconfirmed, endoscopic examination under anesthesia with tonsillectomy ± base of tongue mucosectomy is performed. The therapeutic rationale aims to eradicate the involved lymph nodes and potential primary tumor with a sequence of chemoradiotherapy and neck dissection.

Discussion

As a general approach, p16‐negative SCCUP are truly HPV negative, whereas p16‐positive specimens require confirmation with HPV in situ hybridization or polymerase chain reaction to confirm HPV infection. If a cervical metastasis is considered HPV positive, the primary lesion is likely in the oropharynx, and further diagnostic interventions such as tonsillectomy seems to be mandatory. Whether the optimal treatment is neck dissection followed by adjuvant radiotherapy or concomitant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) (in case of extranodal extension or advanced lymph node stages) or definitive CRT followed by neck dissection (in case of positive 18F‐FDG‐PET/CT) remains a matter of debate. Solid scientific evidence supporting treatment de‐escalation in HPV‐related SCCUP is lacking, and the results of ongoing trials are at the brink of reporting.

Conclusion

Currently, the treatment of patients with HPV‐related SCCUP should not differ from the standard treatment of other SCCUP patients and is similarly based on the staging of the disease and general condition of the patient.
Within‐species phenotypic diversity enhances resistance to stress ‐ A case study using the polymorphic species Bosmina longirostris
Authors: Adamczuk Małgorzata , Mieczan Tomasz
Published: July 2019

Bosmina longirostris is a polymorphic cladoceran, widely distributed throughout the world in temperate and tropical climates, where it colonises all kinds of freshwater bodies regardless of their trophy, acidification, or salinity. In this paper, we test the hypothesis that the ability of B. longirostris to colonise new freshwater bodies results from their maintenance of morphotypes with different life histories. To test the above hypothesis, the life histories of four morphotypes of B. longirostris were analysed through daily observations of individuals cultured separately under uniform optimal conditions. We demonstrated that these morphotypes differed in somatic growth, reproductive effort, lifespan, and fitness, and differences in life histories among morphotypes resulted from the trade‐offs between these parameters. Next, we examined the role of distinct morphotypes (each with specific life‐history) in populations subjected to stress: we maintained two populations of B. longirostris under biotic stress (the presence of invertebrate predators) or abiotic stress (elevated salinity). At the end of the experiment these populations differed from one another in the relative density of morphotypes in comparison with the population cultured in the optimal environment. In populations that suffered from predatory pressure we found an increase in the relative density of morphotypes that grew considerably quicker, had a shorter lifespan, reproduced infrequently but delivered many offspring at each reproductive event. In populations that suffered from elevated salinity, we observed an increase in morphotypes that exhibited low reproductive effort but had the highest survival. Simultaneously, with phenotypic regrouping of populations, morphotypes adapted to novel conditions by altering the expression of life‐history traits. The observed switches in the phenotypic structure of B. longirostris suggest that the persistence of morphotypes with different life histories is beneficial to populations colonising varying environments and their relative abundances in a population are conditioned by the diverseness of local stressors.
Enhancing the training integrity of human service staff using pyramidal behavioral skills training
Authors: Erath Tyler G. , DiGennaro Reed Florence D. , Sundermeyer Hunter W. , Brand Denys , Novak Matthew D. , Harbison Matt J. , Shears Rick
Published: July 2019

This experiment used a pyramidal training model to evaluate the effects of behavioral skills training (BST), delivered in a 1‐time group‐training format, on the extent to which 25 human service staff implemented BST when training others how to implement behavioral procedures. Results indicated that (a) the training workshop increased BST integrity to mastery levels for the majority of participants with varying levels of education, organizational positions, and training experience, (b) the training effects generalized to teaching an untrained skill, and (c) high levels of BST integrity maintained at follow‐up 4 to 6 weeks after training for all 3 participants with whom probes were conducted. Moreover, participants indicated high levels of satisfaction with both the training workshop and BST as a training procedure.
Association of CD44 polymorphisms and susceptibility to HBV‐related hepatocellular carcinoma in the Chinese population
Authors: Deng Yan , Chen Zhi‐jian , Lan Fang , He Qi‐tian , Chen Si‐yuan , Du Yu‐fang , Li Shan , Qin Xue
Published: July 2019

Background

This study aimed to determine whether CD44 polymorphisms were correlated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to reveal a new potential target for early prediction, prevention, and diagnosis of HCC.

Method

This study involved 96 cases with chronic hepatitis B (CHB), 96 cases with hepatitis B virus‐related liver cirrhosis (LC), 204 cases with HCC related to the hepatitis B virus, and 210 healthy controls. The genotype of rs8193 was determined using the restriction fragment length polymorphism method, while the genotypes of rs10836347 and rs13347 were determined by direct sequencing.

Results

The results showed that patients with the CD44 rs13347 TT and T allele polymorphisms exhibited higher risks of LC than those carrying the CC genotype and C allele. The CD44 rs13347 CT and TT genotypes and T allele were significantly associated with an increased risk of HCC after adjusting for gender, age, smoking, and alcohol consumption (for CT: odds ratio [OR] = 1.626, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.057‐2.500, P = .027; for TT: OR = 1.965, 95% CI = 1.043‐3.702, P = .037; and for T: OR = 1.461, 95% CI = 1.091‐1.956, P = .011). In the rs13347 site of the female population, the CT and TT genotypes were related to the high occurrence of HCC. In the population aged ≥50 years, carriers of the CD44 rs13347 CT and TT alleles were more susceptible to HCC compared with CC carriers. Those who consumed alcohol who carried the rs10836347 CT genotype exhibited a risk factor for HCC.

Conclusion

For the CD44 rs13347 site, mutations in the T allele might be a risk factor for HCC.
The function of P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 is conserved from ancestral fishes to mammals
Authors: Baïsse Bénédicte , Spertini Caroline , Galisson Frédérique , Smirnova Tatiana , Spertini Olivier
Published: July 2019

PSGL-1 is a mucin-like glycoprotein that supports, in mammals, leukocyte rolling on selectins. However, we have limited knowledge whether its function is conserved in non-mammals and how its structure adapted during evolution. To identify conserved amino acid sequences required for selectin binding, we performed multiple alignments of PSGL-1 sequences from 18 mammals, 4 birds, 3 reptiles, 1 amphibian, and 15 fishes. The amino-terminal T[D/E]PP[D/E] motif, which identifies in mammals a core-2 O-glycosylated threonine required for selectin-binding, is partially conserved in some fishes (e.g., T. rubripes) and birds (e.g., G. gallus), however, most non-mammals do not display it. The sulfated tyrosine residues of human PSGL-1, which bind L- and P-selectin, are not observed in non-mammals, suggesting that they are dispensable for selectin-binding or that other amino acids play their role. A mucin-like domain is present in all species. Interestingly, the alignment of cytoplasmic sequences of non-mammals reveals the conservation of ezrin/radixin/moesin binding site and two new motifs (M1 and M2). To examine the conservation of PSGL-1 function, we cloned PSGL-1 cDNA sequences of zebrafish and fugu, and established their cross-reactivity with human selectins under flow conditions. Importantly, deleting the well-conserved M1 motif strongly decreased PSGL-1 expression at leukocyte surface and induced retention of the precursor molecule in the endoplasmic reticulum, indicating that M1 motif provides a signal required to export PSGL-1 precursors to the Golgi complex. These data show for the first time the conservation of PSGL-1 function from fishes to mammals and reveal the function of a new motif.
Secreted IgM: New tricks for an old molecule
Authors: Blandino Rebecca , Baumgarth Nicole
Published: July 2019

Secreted IgM (sIgM) is a multifunctional evolutionary conserved antibody that is critical for the maintenance of tissue homeostasis as well as the development of fully protective humoral responses to pathogens. Constitutive secretion of self- and polyreactive natural IgM, produced mainly by B-1 cells, provides a circulating antibody that engages with autoantigens as well as invading pathogens, removing apoptotic and other cell debris and initiating strong immune responses. Pathogen-induced IgM production by B-1 and conventional B-2 cells strengthens this early, passive layer of IgM-mediated immune defense and regulates subsequent IgG production. The varied effects of secreted IgM on immune homeostasis and immune defense are facilitated through its binding to numerous different cell types via different receptors. Recent studies identified a novel function for pentameric IgM, namely as a transporter for the effector protein ″apoptosis-inhibitor of macrophages″ (AIM/CD5L). This review aims to provide a summary of the known functions and effects of sIgM on immune homeostasis and immune defense, and its interaction with its various receptors, and to highlight the many critical immune regulatory functions of this ancient and fascinating immunoglobulin.
Cover Image, Volume 99, Issue 11
Authors: Guo Jun , Zhao Runmin , Li Jiaqi , Wu Dongyan , Yang Qiyue , Zhang Yan , Wang Shuo
Published: July 2019

The cover image is based on the Research Article Furan formation from ingredient interactions and furan mitigation by sugar alcohols and antioxidants of bamboo leaves in milk beverage model systems by Jun Guo et al., DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.9739.

image
Multi‐decadal morpho‐sedimentary dynamics of the largest Changjiang estuarine marginal shoal: Causes and implications
Authors: Wei Wen , Dai Zhijun , Mei Xuefei , Gao Shu , Liu J. Paul
Published: July 2019

Understanding the long‐term evolution of estuarine shoals given natural variations and human modifications is a key issue for wetland protection and shoal management. Here, the multi‐decadal (1958–2013) morpho‐sedimentary dynamics of the Nanhui Shoal (NHS), the largest Changjiang estuarine marginal shoal, are studied using a suite of hydrological, sedimentological, and bathymetric data. The results show that the tidal flow regime and sedimentary mode around the NHS changed slightly after the 1980s. Moreover, the NHS experienced a siltation‐induced volume increase of 4.1 × 108 m3, concentrated in the landward region, and seaward progradation, producing an increase in gross area of 33 km2, during 1958–2013. Even so, the actual tidal flat resource decreased by 29% due to the reclamation of 202 km2. Transition in the development of the NHS is detected: a planar geometry transformation from a triangular cusp to an arcuate cusp during 1958–1989; vertical siltation in the landward region under a stable arcuate‐shaped geometry thereafter. Furthermore, a steeply sloping profile with grades of 2–11‰ formed in the northern section, which limits future reclamation to 80 km2 there. Estuarine regime adjustment, inducing hydrodynamic alterations in the South Passage, dominated the geometric changes in the NHS during 1958–1989, whereas substantial siltation promotion projects led to the landward siltation after 1989. The decrease in sediment input downstream of the Three Gorges Dam has played a minor role in the shoal evolution. This work provides new insights into the long‐term morpho‐sedimentary responses of estuarine shoals to natural and artificial forcings and their implications for shoal exploitation.
Broadening Horizons: Graduate Students Participating in International Collaborations through the Limnology and Oceanography Research Exchange (LOREX) Program
Authors: Beck Hannah N. , Cohen Ashley , McKenzie Tristan , Weisend Rachel , Wilkins Keiko W. , Woodstock Matthew S.
Published: July 2019

International research is necessary in aquatic sciences because water moves across borders. Historically, international collaborations have been useful in conducting oceanographic research programs, which span large distances and require several funding sources. Although valuable, international research can have unforeseen challenges to the unprepared researcher. Communication with an international collaborator and professional development training can mitigate these pitfalls. The Limnology and Oceanography Research Exchange Program (LOREX) is an opportunity for graduate students to gain experience developing international collaborations. The LOREX program aims to help graduate students develop connections and gain experience in international research. During the summer of 2019 and spring of 2020, 26 graduate students from 24 U.S. institutions will travel to one of six different host institutions to conduct a research project that they developed with an international collaborator. To prepare for their research experience, LOREX participants participated in training programs during the 2019 Aquatic Sciences Meeting in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The first group of LOREX graduate students will share their experience through social media and blog posts throughout their journey. Applications are now open for the second cohort of LOREX participants, and potential applicants are encouraged to contact potential collaborators to develop a research project.
A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study of Oral Tranexamic Acid for the Prevention of Postinflammatory Hyperpigmentation After Q‐Switched 532‐nm Nd:YAG Laser for Solar Lentigines
Authors: Rutnin Suthinee , Pruettivorawongse Duangrat , Thadanipon Kunlawat , Vachiramon Vasanop
Published: July 2019

Background and Objectives

Q‐switched (QS) 532‐nm Nd:YAG laser is one of the treatment options for solar lentigines (SLs). However, the high incidence of postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is concerning, especially in dark‐complexioned skin. Tranexamic acid (TA) can decrease melanogenesis and has been used to treat melasma. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral TA for PIH prevention and clearance in patients with SL treated with QS 532‐nm Nd:YAG laser.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Forty patients with SL treated with QS 532‐nm Nd:YAG laser were enrolled in this randomized controlled trial. They were randomly assigned to be receive oral TA 1,500 mg daily or placebo for 6 weeks. Results were evaluated by blinded investigators using digital photographs, dermatoscopy, colorimetry, physician grading scores, and patient satisfaction scores at baseline, 2nd, 4th, 6th, and 12th weeks.

Results

The incidence of PIH, relative melanin value, lightness index, and clinical improvement scores were not significantly different between the two groups. However, the TA group had a significantly lower incidence of dermatoscopic finding of pigmented granules, which correspond to PIH at 6th and 12th weeks (P = 0.038 and 0.013, respectively). Homogenous light brown pigmentation under dermatoscopy was significantly associated with higher clinical improvement.

Conclusions

Oral TA therapy starting at the first day postlaser treatment is not effective for PIH prevention after QS 532‐nm Nd:YAG laser in SL. However, PIH clearance, as assessed dermatoscopically, is significantly improved by oral TA at 6th and 12th week. Lasers Surg. Med. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diagnosis, Outcome, and Management of Chylous Ascites Following Pediatric Liver Transplantation
Authors: Miserachs Mar , Lurz Eberhard , Levman Aviva , Ghanekar Anand , Cattral Mark , Ng Vicky , Grant David , Avitzur Yaron
Published: July 2019

Data on postoperative chylous ascites (CA) after pediatric liver transplantation (LT) are scarce. This retrospective study was conducted to identify the incidence, risk factors, management, and outcomes of postoperative CA in a large single‐center pediatric LT cohort (2000‐2016). The study cohort comprised 317 LTs (153 living donors and 164 deceased donors) in 310 recipients with a median age of 2.7 years. The incidence of CA was 5.4% (n = 17), diagnosed after a median time of 10 days after LT. Compared with chylomicron detection in peritoneal fluid (the gold standard), a triglyceride cutoff value of 187 mg/dL in peritoneal fluid showed insufficient sensitivity (31%) for CA diagnosis. In univariate logistic regression analyses, ascites before LT, younger age, and lower weight, height, and height‐for‐age z score at LT were associated with CA. Symptomatic management of CA included peritoneal drain (100%) and diuretics (76%). Therapeutic interventions included very low‐fat or medium‐chain triglyceride–rich diets (94%) and intravenous octreotide (6%), leading to CA resolution in all patients. CA was associated with prolonged hospital length of stay (LOS; 40 days in the CA group versus 24 days in the non‐CA group; P = 0.001) but not with reduced patient or graft survival rates after a median follow‐up time of 14 years. In conclusion, CA in the pediatric LT recipient is a relatively uncommon complication associated with increased hospital LOS and morbidity. Measurement of chylomicrons is recommended in patients with ascites that is more severe or persistent than expected. Dietary interventions are effective in most patients.
Effects of Density on Production of Hybrid Catfish in Intensively Aerated Earthen Ponds where Dissolved Oxygen is Not a Limiting Factor
Authors: Torrans Les , Ott Brian
Published: July 2019

Research has demonstrated that by maintaining the minimum dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration in earthen ponds at or above 3.0 ppm, feed intake and growth of Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus, Blue Catfish I. furcatus, and hybrid catfish (female Channel Catfish × male Blue Catfish) may be doubled relative to those achieved with the oxygen management regimes typically used on commercial catfish farms. In earlier studies using only emergency aeration or low levels of fixed aeration, the direct effect of stocking rate has been confounded by lower morning DO concentrations in ponds stocked at higher densities due to higher feed input and fish biomass. Although higher stocking rates in those studies did produce greater yields, individual fish growth and feed intake may have been impacted by lower DO levels while appearing to be a direct density effect. In this study, production of hybrid catfish, which were fed daily to satiation in earthen ponds with no water exchange, was compared at low (5,000 fish/acre) and high (20,000 fish/acre) stocking rates while using controlled intensive aeration to maintain a minimum DO over 3.0 ppm in all ponds through the study. We achieved an average net production of 27,704 lb/acre at the higher stocking rate compared to 10,176 lb/acre at the lower stocking rate. Although this is the highest yield reported thus far in traditional static-water earthen ponds in the southern USA, it may not be the maximum production possible. The average weight of harvested fish was higher at the lower density (2.2 lb versus 1.6 lb), but the feed conversion ratio was identical (1.8) at the two densities. Our data indicate that when morning DO is maintained above limiting concentrations, other factors such as direct density interactions (aggression and/or inhibitory pheromonal feedback) and/or water quality variables unrelated to morning DO—specifically un-ionized ammonia—may play a role in catfish feed intake and growth but not food conversion.
The misdiagnosis of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome in a VA population
Authors: Skove Stephanie L. , Howard Lauren E. , Senechal Justin , De Hoedt Amanda , Bresee Catherine , Cunningham Timothy J. , Barbour Kamil E. , Kim Jayoung , Freedland Stephen J. , Anger Jennifer T.
Published: July 2019

Aims

The complexity of Interstitial Cystitis/bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS) has led to a great deal of uncertainty around the diagnosis and prevalence of the condition. Under the hypothesis that IC/BPS is frequently misdiagnosed, we sought to assess the accuracy of the ICD‐9/ICD‐10 code for IC/BPS using a national data set.

Methods

Using the Veterans Affairs Informatics and Computing Infrastructure, we identified a random sample of 100 patients with an ICD‐9/ICD‐10 diagnosis of IC/BPS (595.1/N30.10) by querying all living patients in the Veterans Affairs (VA) system. We purposely sampled men and women equally to better understand gender‐specific practice patterns. Patients were considered a correct IC/BPS diagnosis if they had two visits complaining of bladder‐centric pain in the absence of positive urine culture at least 6 weeks apart. Patients were considered not to have IC/BPS if they had a history of pelvic radiation, systemic chemotherapy, metastatic cancer, or bladder cancer.

Results

Of the 100 patients, 48 were female and 52 were male. Five had prior radiation, one had active cancer, and 10 had bladder cancer (all male), and an additional fifteen had insufficient records. Of the remaining 69 patients, 43% did not have IC/BPS. Of these patients who did not have IC/BPS, 43% complained only of overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms, which was more common in women (63%) than men (21%), P = .003.

Conclusions

In our small sample from a nationwide VA system, results indicate that IC/BPS has a high misdiagnosis rate. These findings shed light on the gender‐specific diagnostic complexity of IC/BPS.
Efficacy and safety of adjustable balloons (Proact™) to treat male stress urinary incontinence after prostate surgery: Medium and long‐term follow‐up data of a national multicentric retrospective study
Authors: Finazzi Agrò Enrico , Gregori Andrea , Bianchi Daniele , Carone Roberto , Giammò Alessandro , Ammirati Enrico , Giovannelli Vanni , Romanò Ai Ling , Martino Pasquale , Saracino Alberto , Volpe Alessandro , Favro Michele , Canepa Giorgio , Varca Virginia , Pinto Anna , Farullo Giuseppe
Published: July 2019

Aims

Male stress urinary incontinence (SUI) represents a complication after radical prostatectomy or benign prostatic obstruction surgery. The artificial urinary sphincter is considered the standard treatment but interest on minimally invasive devices, such as adjustable balloons, has recently increased. Aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the ProACT system.

Methods

In this multicentric retrospective study, we reported the data from nine centers. Patients with SUI who underwent a ProACT device implantation for postoperative SUI and had a minimum follow‐up of 24 months were included. Efficacy was evaluated at the maximum available follow‐up and was assessed utilizing a 24‐hour pad test. Patients were considered: “Dry” if presenting a urine leak weight lower than 8 g at the 24‐hour pad test; “Improved” if presenting a reduction of urine leak higher than 50% (but >8 g/24 hours); “Failure” if presenting a reduction in urine leak lower than 50%. The evaluation included a record of intraoperative and long‐term complications.

Results

Safety and efficacy results are reported on 240 patients. 29.6% of patients were dry at 24 months, 37.5% were improved and 32.9% of patients were considered failures. The baseline mean pad weight of 367 g was reduced to 123 g at 24 months. Five‐year follow‐up on 152 patients showed similar efficacy. The complication rate was 22.5%, with the top complication being long‐term balloon failure.

Conclusions

ProACT implantation represents a safe and efficacious treatment for male postoperative SUI at both medium and long‐term follow up. 67.1% of patients were dry or improved at 24 months. The majority of complications are low grade.
A miR‐194/PTBP1/CCND3 axis regulates tumor growth in human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kang Hoin , Heo Sungeun , Shin Jung Jae , Ji Eunbyul , Tak Hyosun , Ahn Sojin , Lee Kyung Jin , Lee Eun Kyung , Kim Wook
Published: July 2019

Polypyrimidine tract‐binding protein 1 (PTBP1) is one of the most investigated multifunctional RNA‐binding proteins (RBP), controlling almost all steps of mRNA metabolism and processing. It has been reported that PTBP1 is overexpressed in many different types of cancer and this high expression is associated with increased proliferation and poor prognoses. However, there are no reports on a putative role for PTBP1 in the molecular abnormalities and pathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we identified PTBP1 as a positive regulator of human HCC growth. The expression of PTBP1 was increased in human HCC cells and tissues compared to the corresponding controls, and this high expression was positively correlated with increased tumor size and a reduced survival rate. Mechanistically, PTBP1 enhanced cyclin D3 (CCND3) translation by interacting with the 5′‐untranslated region (5′‐UTR) of CCND3 mRNA, consequently facilitating cell cycle progression and tumor growth. Furthermore, we found that miR‐194 inhibits PTBP1 expression by binding to the 3′‐UTR of PTBP1 mRNA, resulting in reduced CCND3 levels and HCC cell growth; moreover, the levels of PTBP1 were negatively correlated with miR‐194 levels in HCC. Taken together, these findings identify PTBP1 as a pivotal enhancer of HCC growth; the miR‐194/PTBP1/CCND3 axis seemingly has a crucial role in the development and progression of HCC and targeting the axis could be a novel therapeutic strategy against human HCC. © 2019 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anisotropy, hole, and hybridization influences in polyester polymer composites reinforced by glass and glass/Kevlar
Authors: Targino Talita G. , Tinô Sérgio R. L. , de Aquino Eve M. F.
Published: July 2019

This study aimed at determining the mechanical properties, residual properties, and mechanical fracture characteristics of two composite laminates reinforced with different types of fibers, the first using a bidirectional fabric of E‐glass fibers and the second, also bidirectional, a hybrid strand of E‐glass and Kevlar 49 fibers. Both laminates consist of four layers of fabric reinforced with Polilyte 10316‐10 polyester resin. Two types of studies were conducted on the laminates: the presence of a geometric discontinuity (central hole) and anisotropy, that is, different fiber arrangements in relation to the applied load. The directions are 0°/90° and ±45°. Another study was carried out on the hybridization process in the composition of reinforcement fabric strands. In all the studies, the test specimens were submitted to uniaxial tensile testing. The results demonstrate the influence of anisotropy, hybridization, and the presence of a central hole on the mechanical response and fracture characteristics of composite laminates, with the 0°/90° configuration exhibiting greater tensile strength in all the conditions studied.
The type III secretion system needle, tip, and translocon
Authors: Dey Supratim , Chakravarty Amritangshu , Guha Biswas Pallavi , De Guzman Roberto N.
Published: July 2019

Many Gram‐negative bacteria pathogenic to plants and animals deploy the type III secretion system (T3SS) to inject virulence factors into their hosts. All bacteria that rely on the T3SS to cause infectious diseases in humans have developed antibiotic resistance. The T3SS is an attractive target for developing new antibiotics because it is essential in virulence, and part of its structural component is exposed on the bacterial surface. The structural component of the T3SS is the needle apparatus, which is assembled from over 20 different proteins and consists of a base, an extracellular needle, a tip, and a translocon. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the structure and assembly of the needle, tip, and translocon.
Revisiting mechanistic studies on dinitrogen reduction to ammonia by an iron dinitrogen complex as nitrogenase mimic
Authors: Vyas Nidhi , Pandey Bhawana , Ojha Animesh , Grover Abhinav
Published: July 2019

Conversion of free nitrogen to ammonia is a required chemical reaction for both biologically and industrially but their mechanism, specifically the attachment of electron and proton transfer during the cycle, is still doubtful. In this view, a thorough knowledge of the mechanism is crucial. In this article, we employ a density functional method on [(TPB)FeN2]−, the iron‐dinitrogen complex carrying the tris(phosphine)borone (TPB) ligand, for the ammonia production with the inclusion of electrons and protons. The electronic structures, reactivity, and mechanistic possibilities have been extensively explored using the B3LYP functional. Both asymmetric and symmetric pathways in addition to the possible intermediates species and transition states are considered here. Our results conclude tremendously small energy barrier of 3.5 kJ/mol for the first protonation (S = 1/2) for the N─H bond activation by the [(TPB)FeN2]− species. However, high activation barrier for the third protonation was estimated to be 78.5 kJ/mol, which is explained by the high energy of the unoccupied δx2‐y2 orbital in 1ts4 species. The computed spectroscopic parameters such as absorption, electron paramagnetic resonance, and Mössbauer also established the electronic structure details of the species. The calculated parameters are compatible with the experimental results.
Energy‐Level Modulation in Diboron‐Modified SnO2 for High‐Efficiency Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Li Nengxu , Niu Xiuxiu , Pei Fengtao , Liu Huifen , Cao Yang , Liu Yuquan , Xie Haipeng , Gao Yongli , Chen Qi , Mo Fanyang , Zhou Huanping
Published: July 2019

Energy‐level modulation between perovskite and carrier transport layers to obtain a promoted carrier extraction and reduced charge recombination is an effective way to achieve high‐efficiency perovskite solar cells. Here, diboron is used as an effective interfacial modifier between SnO2 and perovskite. By taking advantage of the higher Fermi level on the surface of SnO2 after diboron treatment, a power‐conversion efficiency of 22.04% in a solar cell device based on two‐step solution‐processed planar n‐i‐p structure is obtained. With the help of thorough characterizations, it is argued that the diboron‐treated SnO2 exhibits some Sn3+ species, which serve as electron donors with a more n‐type nature, promoting electron extraction and reducing carrier recombination in the electron transport layer (ETL)/perovskite interface. Further analysis speculates that the formation of surface diboron–oxygen Lewis pair induces a reducing state of diboron complexes, resulting in the spontaneous electron redistribution and the formation of Sn3+−O–• species. This provides an effective chemical approach to tune the energy alignment between the oxide ETL and absorber.
Environmental DNA (eDNA) Assays for Invasive Populations of Black Carp in North America
Authors: Guan Xin , Monroe Emy M. , Bockrath Katherine D. , Mize Erica L. , Rees Christopher B. , Lindsay Denise L. , Baerwaldt Kelly L. , Nico Leo G. , Lance Richard F.
Published: July 2019

The Black Carp Mylopharyngodon piceus is an increasingly widespread invasive species in North America that threatens freshwater mussel populations. We developed four qPCR assays for detecting environmental DNA (eDNA) from these Black Carp populations. Assays were designed to target four mitochondrial DNA loci and were based on 34 complete mitochondrial genome sequences, including 29 generated in this study from samples obtained in three countries. Assays were validated for taxon specificity with in silico comparisons against archived DNA sequences and with in vitro tests of 41 DNA samples from Black Carp, as well as DNA samples from 30 nontarget fish species, all from the Mississippi River basin. All four assays were able to detect the DNA of all Black Carp samples and did not exhibit any positive results with DNA from other tested species. Tests conducted in round‐robin fashion among three different laboratories found that all four assays were able to detect DNA at very low template concentrations (limits of detection = 3 copies/qPCR, limits of quantification = 16–64 copies/qPCR) and, as part of in situ validation, were successful in detecting eDNA from Black Carp in aquaculture ponds. Despite some challenges with other attempts at in situ validation, the assays were also effective in detecting Black Carp eDNA in water samples from a drainage ditch in the upper reaches of the species’ range that was known to contain juvenile Black Carp, as well as in water samples from the Mississippi River and a connected oxbow lake in the lower reaches of the species’ range.
RAD sequencing rejects a long‐distance disjunction in Stellaria (Caryophyllaceae) and yields support for a new southern Rocky Mountains endemic
Authors: Sharples Mathew T. , Tripp Erin A.
Published: July 2019

Whereas the eastern North American–eastern Asian floristic connection represents one of the most widely studied biogeographical relationships in flowering plant evolution, connections between western North America and Asia have been comparatively rarely investigated, especially through genetic approaches. Stellaria irrigua is one of several plants that has been treated as an exceptionally dramatic example of a disjunction between floristically similar, high alpine biotas of the southern Rocky Mountains and south‐central Siberia. We here employ numerous new field collections and ddRADseq data to test the hypothesis that S. irrigua—a species that has been known for over 180 years—represents a long‐distance disjunction between the southern Rocky Mountains and central Asia. Extensive fieldwork, review and perusal of herbarium materials, and phylogenomic analyses indicate that S. irrigua is broadly distributed across an amphi‐Beringian arc extending from southern and central Asia, east through Beringia, and south throughout mountainous regions of western North America. Sampled Asian populations formed two clades, and North American individuals all formed a clade embedded within this broader Asian lineage. Stellaria irrigua is, however, rendered non‐monophyletic by a lineage that is embedded within the North American populations and is ecologically and morphologically distinctive from S. irrigua. The identity of this newly recognized lineage, which was in prior works attributed to S. irrigua, has been confused since plants of the former were first collected in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado in the late 1800s under Arenaria and Alsine. We provide a new name for this taxon, Stellaria sanjuanensis, a charismatic starwort of dry alpine scree slopes of the southern Rocky Mountains. Additionally, two lectotypes are designated, one holotype and one isotype are identified, and two new synonymies are proposed, to help stabilize the taxonomy and nomenclature of this long‐confused species complex. A key to the starworts of the southern Rocky Mountains is also provided, and Stellaria alsine is reported as new to the region.