bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen peroxide metabolism and functions in plants
Authors: Smirnoff Nicholas , Arnaud Dominique
Published: September 2018

Contents

Summary
1197

I.
Introduction
1198

II.
Measurement and imaging of H2O2
1198

III.
H2O2 and O2·− toxicity
1199

IV.
Production of H2O2: enzymes and subcellular locations
1200

V.
H2O2 transport
1205

VI.
Control of H2O2 concentration: how and where?
1205

VII.
Metabolic functions of H2O2
1207

VIII.
H2O2 signalling
1207

IX.
Where next?
1209

Acknowledgements
1209

References
1209

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is produced, via superoxide and superoxide dismutase, by electron transport in chloroplasts and mitochondria, plasma membrane NADPH oxidases, peroxisomal oxidases, type III peroxidases and other apoplastic oxidases. Intracellular transport is facilitated by aquaporins and H2O2 is removed by catalase, peroxiredoxin, glutathione peroxidase‐like enzymes and ascorbate peroxidase, all of which have cell compartment‐specific isoforms. Apoplastic H2O2 influences cell expansion, development and defence by its involvement in type III peroxidase‐mediated polymer cross‐linking, lignification and, possibly, cell expansion via H2O2‐derived hydroxyl radicals. Excess H2O2 triggers chloroplast and peroxisome autophagy and programmed cell death. The role of H2O2 in signalling, for example during acclimation to stress and pathogen defence, has received much attention, but the signal transduction mechanisms are poorly defined. H2O2 oxidizes specific cysteine residues of target proteins to the sulfenic acid form and, similar to other organisms, this modification could initiate thiol‐based redox relays and modify target enzymes, receptor kinases and transcription factors. Quantification of the sources and sinks of H2O2 is being improved by the spatial and temporal resolution of genetically encoded H2O2 sensors, such as HyPer and roGFP2‐Orp1. These H2O2 sensors, combined with the detection of specific proteins modified by H2O2, will allow a deeper understanding of its signalling roles.
Preoperative antibiotics and cardiovascular implantable electronic device infection: A cohort study in veterans
Authors: Alzahrani Talal , Liappis Angelike P. , Baddour Larry M. , Karasik Pamela E.
Published: September 2018

Background

Cefazolin is used as standard preoperative prophylaxis for a variety of surgical procedures that involve the skin. In contrast, vancomycin is recommended for a minority of patients, specifically those with an IgE‐mediated allergy to beta‐lactams and considered in patients with known colonization with methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus or at high risk for such. Vancomycin, however, has been overprescribed, has nephrotoxicity risk, and may be less effective due to its inferior coverage of methicillin‐susceptible S. aureus and lack of Gram‐negative coverage. This study was performed to assess whether vancomycin use was associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular implantable electronic device infection (CIEDI) as compared to that of cefazolin or other antistaphylococcal beta‐lactam antibiotics.

Methods

The VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure database, which included all veterans who underwent CIED placement or revision between 2008 and 2015, was used. A logistic regression model was constructed to estimate the adjusted odds of CIEDI.

Results

Overall, 10,454 CIED procedures were included, and 98% of them were performed in men with a mean age of 71 ± 12 years. The logistic regression analysis showed that vancomycin use alone or in combination with other antibiotics was associated with an increased risk of CIEDI (odds ratio 2.99 [1.76–5.06], P‐value < 0.001), after controlling for other effects.

Conclusions

Our study revealed that among patients who received surgical site infection prophylaxis for CIED placement or revision, there was: (1) an unanticipated high rate of vancomycin use, and (2) a threefold increase in the incidence of subsequent CIEDI among vancomycin recipient
Nectin1 expression is frequently decreased in gastric cancers
Authors: Takahashi Yu , Yamamichi Nobutake , Inada Ken‐ichi , Shiogama Kazuya , Sakurai Kouhei , Takeuchi Chihiro , Mizutani Yasuyoshi , Tsutsumi Yutaka , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: September 2018

Gastric cancer (GC) is rich in many different histological types, but how the histological pattern is defined remains to be proved. The relation between GC histological types and the expression of nectin1, which is one of the cell adhesion molecules that composes adherens junction, has not been reported. According to a publicly available database of 406 GC patients, the median overall survival of Nectin1 high expression patients was 55.4 months and that of low expression patients was 25.6 months (P = 0.0246). Using surgically or endoscopically resected GC samples, nectin1 expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Nectin1 expressed at adherens junction in all the normal epithelial cells. However, nectin1 expressed not at adherens junction but at apical membrane in epithelial cells in intestinal metaplasia. The expression pattern of nectin1 in intestinal type GC resembled to intestinal metaplasia. In order to analyze the difference in nectin1 expression between GC histological types, a total of 116 intestinal type GC and 33 diffuse type GC. The expression of necitin1 in diffuse type GC (3.0%) was remarkably decreased compared to that in intestinal type GC (65.5%) (P < 0.0001). In conclusion, this is the first report showing an association between nectin1 expression and histological subtypes of GC.
Total antioxidant capacity and protein peroxidation intensity in seminal plasma of infertile and fertile dogs
Authors: Domoslawska Anna , Zdunczyk Slawomir , Franczyk Monika , Kankofer Marta , Janowski Tomasz
Published: September 2018

Contents

The aim of this study was to evaluate the total antioxidant capacity and protein peroxidation intensity in seminal plasma of infertile and fertile dogs. The study was conducted on 10 infertile and 10 fertile dogs of various breeds. Infertility was defined as conception failure at least three matings with different bitches. Semen was collected by manual manipulation. The sperm concentration and motility parameters were evaluated using CASA Hamilton Thorne, Vers. IVOS 12.3. The morphology of spermatozoa and the percentage of live and dead sperm cells were assessed microscopically, total antioxidant capacity and the content of SH‐groups in seminal plasma were determined spectrophotometrically, the contents of protein peroxidation markers in seminal plasma, bityrosine and formylokinurenine, were determined using spectrofluorimetric methods. Sperm concentration and total sperm count were significantly (p < 0.05) lower in infertile dogs than in fertile dogs (99.92 ± 3 0.05 × 106/ml vs. 282.07 ± 48.27 × 106/ml; 214.19 ± 114.74 × 106 vs. 747.57 ± 210.94 × 106, respectively). The percentage of spermatozoa with normal morphology and the most determined motility parameters differed significantly (p < 0.05) between both groups. The mean values of total antioxidant capacity in the seminal plasma were significantly (p < 0.05) lower (19.95 ± 20.94 vs. 25.66 ± 23.18 µmol/g protein), whereas the mean contents of bityrosine and formylokinurenine in seminal plasma were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in infertile dogs than in fertile dogs (3.71 ± 4.83 µg/mg protein vs. 1.55 ± 2.00 µg/mg protein and 0.37 ± 0.45 µg/mg protein vs. 0.14 ± 0.08 µg/mg protein, respectively). In conclusion, the obtained results suggest that the poor semen quality and infertility in dogs could be associated with lowered total antioxidant capacity and increased protein peroxidation in seminal plasma as a consequence of oxidative stress.
A Lie symmetry analysis and explicit solutions of the two‐dimensional ∞‐Polylaplacian
Authors: Papamikos Georgios , Pryer Tristan
Published: September 2018

In this work, we consider the Lie point symmetry analysis of a strongly nonlinear partial differential equation of third order, the ∞‐Polylaplacian, in two spatial dimensions. This equation is a higher order generalization of the ∞‐Laplacian, also known as Aronsson's equation, and arises as the analog of the Euler–Lagrange equations of a second‐order variational principle in L∞. We obtain its full symmetry group, one‐dimensional Lie subalgebras and the corresponding symmetry reductions to ordinary differential equations. Finally, we use the Lie symmetries to construct new invariant ∞‐Polyharmonic functions.
Eccentric cycling is more efficient in reducing fat mass than concentric cycling in adolescents with obesity
Authors: Julian Valérie , Thivel David , Miguet Maud , Pereira Bruno , Costes Frédéric , Coudeyre Emmanuel , Duclos Martine , Richard Ruddy
Published: September 2018

The benefits of eccentric (ECC) training on fat mass (FM) remain underexplored. We hypothesized that in obese adolescents, ECC cycling training is more efficient for decreasing whole‐body FM percentage compared to concentric (CON) performed at the same oxygen consumption (VO2). Twenty‐four adolescents aged 13.4 ± 1.3 years (BMI > 90th percentile) were randomized to ECC or CON. They performed three cyclo‐ergometer sessions per week (30 min per session) for 12 weeks: two habituation, 5 at 50% VO2peak, and 5 at 70% VO2peak. Anthropometric measurements, body composition, maximal incremental CON tests, strength tests, and blood samples were assessed pre‐ and post‐training. Whole‐body FM percentage decreased significantly after compared to pretraining in both groups, though to a larger extent in the ECC group (ECC: −10% vs CON: −4.2%, P < 0.05). Whole‐body lean mass (LM) percentage increased significantly in both groups after compared to pretraining, with a greater increase in the ECC group (ECC: 3.8% vs CON: 1.5%, P <0.05). The improvements in leg FM and LM percentages were greater in the ECC group (−6.5% and 3.0%, P = 0.01 and P < 0.01). Quadriceps isometric and isokinetic ECC strength increased significantly more in the ECC group (28.3% and 21.3%, P < 0.05). Both groups showed similar significant VO2peak improvement (ECC: 15.4% vs CON: 10.3%). The decrease in homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance index was significant in the ECC group (−19.9%). In conclusion, although both ECC and CON cycling trainings are efficient to decrease FM, ECC induces greater FM reduction, strength gains, and insulin resistance improvements and represents an optimal modality to recommend for obese adolescents.
The novel HLA‐B allele, HLA‐B*50:31, was identified by sequencing genomic DNA
Authors: Zhang Kun‐Lian , Li Xiao‐Feng , Zhang Xu , Lin Feng‐Qiu , Li Jian‐Ping
Published: September 2018

The novel HLA‐B allele, HLA‐B*50:31, was identified by sequencing genomic DNA.
Tyrosine phosphorylation of a receptor‐like cytoplasmic kinase, BSR1, plays a crucial role in resistance to multiple pathogens in rice
Authors: Sugano Shoji , Maeda Satoru , Hayashi Nagao , Kajiwara Hideyuki , Inoue Haruhiko , Jiang Chang‐Jie , Takatsuji Hiroshi , Mori Masaki
Published: September 2018

Plants have evolved many receptor‐like cytoplasmic kinases (RLCKs) to modulate their growth, development, and innate immunity. Broad‐Spectrum Resistance 1 (BSR1) encodes a rice RLCK, whose overexpression confers resistance to multiple diseases, including fungal rice blast and bacterial leaf blight. However, the mechanisms underlying resistance remain largely unknown. In the present study, we report that BSR1 is a functional protein kinase that autophosphorylates and transphosphorylates an artificial substrate in vitro. Although BSR1 is classified as a serine/threonine kinase, it was shown to autophosphorylate on tyrosine as well as on serine/threonine residues when expressed in bacteria, demonstrating that it is a dual‐specificity kinase. Protein kinase activity was found to be indispensable for resistance to rice blast and leaf blight in BSR1‐overexpressing plants. Importantly, tyrosine phosphorylation of BSR1 was critical for proper localization of BSR1 in rice cells and played a crucial role in BSR1‐mediated resistance to multiple diseases, as evidenced by compromised disease resistance in transgenic plants overexpressing a mutant BSR1 in which Tyr‐63 was substituted with Ala. Overall, our data indicate that BSR1 is a non‐receptor dual‐specificity kinase and that both tyrosine and serine/threonine kinase activities are critical for the normal functioning of BSR1 in the resistance to multiple pathogens. Our results support the notion that tyrosine phosphorylation plays a major regulatory role in the transduction of defense signals from cell‐surface receptor complexes to downstream signaling components in plants.
Managing wild minds: From control by numbers to a multinatural approach in wild boar management in the Veluwe, the Netherlands
Authors: Boonman‐Berson Susan , Driessen Clemens , Turnhout Esther
Published: September 2018

Current wildlife management practices rely largely on quantitative data to legitimise decisions, manage human–wildlife conflicts and control wildlife populations. This paper draws attention to the affective relationships between humans and animals inevitably formed in the practice of producing these data. Based on fieldwork that explores wild boar management in the Veluwe, the Netherlands, we demonstrate the significance of these affective encounters. Specifically, we develop an understanding of mindedness that draws on processes of affective learning in wildlife management practices. To understand this mindedness and how it emerges in wild boar management practices, we use the concepts of affect, attunement and animal subjectivities. First, we show how the numero‐politics involved in wildlife management presumes animal minds to be static and generically defined by species, and their presence and behaviour to be context independent. Subsequently, we describe the entanglements of humans, wild animals and the landscape, aiming to produce an appreciation of the mutuality that is involved in knowing and conserving wildlife. This, we propose, helps to demonstrate how various – individual or collective – forms of human and non‐human mindedness are implicated in management practices but remain invisible and underappreciated in formal accounts. We conclude by explicating a multinatural approach to the management of wildlife that explicitly builds on an acknowledgment of mindedness as a feature of individuals, collectives and landscapes.
Noninvasive prenatal diagnosis by cell‐free DNA screening for fetomaternal HPA‐1a platelet incompatibility
Authors: Ferro Marta , Macher Hada C. , Fornés Gema , Martín‐Sánchez Jesús , Jimenez‐Arriscado Pilar , Molinero Patrocinio , Pérez‐Simón José A. , Guerrero Juan M. , Rubio Amalia
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

The development of new noninvasive approaches for the diagnosis of human platelet antigen (HPA)‐1 fetomaternal incompatibility has become of great interest. These approaches allow determination of whether the fetus is incompatible or not with the mother and a decision on antenatal therapy to avoid fetal or neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FNAIT). The objective of this work was to perform rapid, noninvasive prenatal test for HPA‐1ab fetal antigen detection after the detection of an HPA‐1–homozygous mother by using plasma cell‐free DNA (cfDNA).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The HPA‐1 genotypes of 142 pregnant women and 17 nonpregnant controls were retrospectively determined by high‐resolution melting (HRM) polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Coamplification at lower denaturation temperature (COLD) HRM PCR was performed to determine the fetal genotype analyzing cfDNA from all HPA‐1bb pregnant women.

RESULTS

After the HRM analysis, the following genotypes were identified: HPA‐1aa (71.13%), HPA‐1bb (2.8%), and HPA‐1ab (26.06%). Four HPA‐1bb–homozygous pregnant women were carrying an incompatible fetus. Plasma samples from these mothers were analyzed by HRM COLD‐PCR. Homozygous HPA‐1bb pregnant women carrying an HPA‐1ab–heterozygous fetus did not group with either the HPA‐1ab or the HPA‐1bb controls. Thus, COLD‐PCR analysis allows the detection of HPA‐1ab–heterozygous fetuses carried by homozygous mothers during first weeks of pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

The fetal genotype from HPA‐1bb–homozygous women was detected by a noninvasive prenatal test as soon as 12 weeks of gestation.
Investigation of the variable In(Lu) phenotype caused by KLF1 variants
Authors: Fraser Nicole S. , Knauth Christine M. , Schoeman Elizna M. , Moussa Assia , Perkins Andrew C. , Walsh Terry , Millard Glenda M. , Dean Melinda M. , Hyland Catherine A. , Flower Robert L.
Published: September 2018

INTRODUCTION

KLF1 is an essential transcriptional activator that drives erythropoiesis. KLF1 variants can result in the Inhibitor of Lutheran, or In(Lu), phenotype where red blood cells (RBCs) have reduced BCAM (LU) and CD44 (IN). Other RBC surface molecules also have changed expression; however, there is controversy in the literature regarding which are truly impacted. We aimed to investigate KLF1 variants in the Australian population.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In(Lu) samples were sourced through screening and through the RBC reference laboratory. Blood donor samples (8036) were screened to identify weakened/absent Lub antigen. Samples were genotyped by massively parallel sequencing, while surface carbohydrates and blood group molecules were assessed by flow cytometry. Hemoglobin (Hb) types were analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

Four of 8036 donors were identified to be In(Lu), and two previously identified In(Lu) samples were provided from the RBC reference laboratory. Five different KLF1 variants were identified; two were novel: c.954G>C/p.Trp318Cys and c.421C>T/p.Arg141*. BCAM and CD44 were reduced in all samples, consistent with previous reports. As a group, In(Lu) RBCs had reduced CD35 (KN), ICAM4 (LW), and CD147 (OK), and demonstrated increased binding of lectins ECA and SNAI. One In(Lu) sample had elevated HbF and another elevated HbA2.

CONCLUSION

Different KLF1 variants may potentially produce variable phenotypes. A framework for investigating KLF1 variants and their phenotypic impact has been provided. In the future, given available international databases, further testing algorithms (as advocated here) will allow for correlation of phenotype with genotype and therefore accurately document this variability between KLF1 variants.
Does using applied muscle tension at strategic time points during donation reduce phlebotomist‐ and donor‐reported vasovagal reaction rates? A three‐armed randomized controlled trial
Authors: Thijsen Amanda , Gemelli Carley N. , Davison Tanya E. , O'Donovan Justine , Bell Barbara , Masser Barbara
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

Vasovagal reactions (VVRs) have a negative impact on donor safety and return. Applied muscle tension (AMT) increases blood pressure temporarily and has been suggested as a way to reduce donors' risk of VVRs. This study evaluated whether using AMT at three different time points during the donation procedure reduces the VVR symptoms reported by donors and the VVR reactions recorded by phlebotomists.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A three‐arm, multicenter, open‐label randomized controlled trial was used to compare VVR symptoms and reaction rates between those practicing AMT during the entire donation (n = 244) to practicing AMT at VVR high‐risk time points (n = 250) to a standard blood donation control group (n = 240). All participants were asked to drink 500 mL of water in the waiting area, and an even distribution of new and repeat donors was sought across conditions.

RESULTS

Across all conditions, donors reported few VVR symptoms and the rate of reporting did not differ significantly across conditions. However, donors who practiced AMT at strategic time points had a significantly lower number of phlebotomist‐registered VVRs in comparison to the other two study groups, with these rates not varying by sex or donor status. Greater compliance by donors with AMT instructions was observed in those asked to practice AMT at strategic time points compared to those asked to practice AMT during the entire donation.

CONCLUSION

Practicing AMT at VVR high‐risk time points reduces the number of phlebotomist‐registered VVRs.
Effect of Educational Games on Self-concept Levels of Inclusive Students Studying in Secondary Schools
Authors: Üstündağ Serhat , Özcan Gülsen
Published: September 2018

This research examines the effect of educational games on self-concept levels of inclusive students enrolled in secondary schools. The research was conducted in two secondary schools in Golbasi district of Ankara, the capital of Turkey, in the spring semester of 2015 - 2016 academic year. The research employed semi-experimental design with pretest and posttest control group. Of a total of 24 students, 12 (4 girls, 8 boys) were included in the experimental group and the other 12 (6 girls, 6 boys) were included in the control group. Educational games program, an independent variable of the research, was applied for 11 weeks, 2 lessons per week. The program that did not include educational games was applied to the control group. Self-concept Scale (SCS) was used to collect data in the research. Independent group t test was used for data analysis, and for single-factor repeated measures, two-factor ANOVA test was used. The significance level was determined to be 0.05. At the end of this research, a significant difference was found in favor of the students in the experimental group in terms of physical competence, physical appearance, peer relationships and general self-concept dimensions of the self-concept scale. On the other hand, there was not any significant difference in favor of both groups in terms of the dimension of relations with parents of the scale.
Examination of the Risk Assessment Levels of Athletes in Different Branches According to Some Variables
Authors: Kirtepe Abdurrahman
Published: September 2018

In this study, the risk assessment levels of athletes in different branches were examined in terms of various variables. Descriptive scanning model was used in the study. In the research, the survey was completed with a sample method of 105 people. The questionnaire was used as a data collection tool in the research. The questionnaire consists of questions about personal information and the Risk Assessment scale for athletes and coaches. Data analysis was performed in SPSS 21 package program. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percent, and mean, standard deviation, minimum and maximum were used in data analysis. Data analysis was performed in SPSS 21 package program. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percent, and mean, standard deviation, minimum and maximum were used in data analysis. As a result of the research, it was determined that the risk assessment perceptions of athletes according to their age, branches, educational status and income status did not differ. As a result of the research, it was determined that the risk assessment perceptions of athletes according to their age, branches, educational status and income status did not differ.
Investigating Views and Practices of Music Teachers’ about Inclusive Education
Authors: Altun Zühal Dinc , Eyüpoğlu Gülçe
Published: September 2018

This study aims to investigate music teachers’ views on the education of special needs students (inclusive) in their classes. The study was carried out within the qualitative research approach and designed as a case study. Views of five middle and one high school music teachers who have special needs students in their classes were taken for investigation. The purposeful sampling method was used for creating the study group. Qualitative data was collected through the use of a semi-structured interview technique which was designed by the researchers. During the interviews, teachers were asked open-ended questions such as how they integrate special needs students into music classes, what they think about the environment of schools for special education needs students, the sufficiency of education taken during faculty years about special education. Obtained data was analysed through content analysis. In the analysis themes and categories were created and findings were presented in tables. In order to support findings, direct quotations from teacher conversations were also included. According to the results of the study, it is determined that music teachers are inadequate in terms of having related knowledge and skills for educating special needs students in their classrooms. In addition, it was found that music teachers do not prepare individual education programs for special needs students but carry on with the present curriculum and they mentioned that the training on special needs given during faculty years was inadequate. At the end of the study, some recommendations were made for improving the quality and productivity of music lessons of music teachers for special education needs students.
Optical probing of acetylcholine receptors on neurons in the medial habenula with a novel caged nicotine drug analogue
Authors: Passlick Stefan , Thapaliya Ek Raj , Chen Zuxin , Richers Matthew T. , Ellis‐Davies Graham C. R.
Published: September 2018

Key points

A new caged nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonist was developed, ABT594, which is photolysed by one‐ and two‐photon excitation.

The caged compound is photolysed with a quantum yield of 0.20.

One‐photon uncaging of ABT594 elicited large currents and Ca2+ transients at the soma and dendrites of medial habenula (MHb) neurons of mouse brain slices.

Unexpectedly, uncaging of ABT594 also revealed highly Ca2+‐permeable nAChRs on axons of MHb neurons.

Photochemical release of neurotransmitters has been instrumental in the study of their underlying receptors, with acetylcholine being the exception due to its inaccessibility to photochemical protection. We caged a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonist, ABT594, via its secondary amine functionality. Effective photolysis could be carried out using either one‐ or two‐photon excitation. Brief flashes (0.5–3.0 ms) of 410 nm light evoked large currents and Ca2+ transients on cell bodies and dendrites of medial habenula (MHb) neurons. Unexpectedly, photorelease of ABT594 also revealed nAChR‐mediated Ca2+ signals along the axons of MHb neurons.
Identification and characterization of Corynebacterium lactis isolated from Amblyomma testudinarium of Sus scrofa in Malaysia
Authors: Lim Fang-Shiang , Loong Shih-Keng , Khoo Jing-Jing , Tan Kim-Kee , Zainal NurHafiza , Abdullah Muhammad-Firdaus , Khor Chee-Sieng , AbuBakar Sazaly
Published: September 2018

Ticks are vectors for a number of important human and animal pathogens. In this study, Corynebacterium lactis was isolated from Amblyomma testudinarium Koch tick sampled from wild boar in Malaysia. Imaging with transmission electron microscope and complete genome sequencing were performed for C. lactis which shared similar morphology to other Corynebacterium species and was susceptible to most of the commonly used antibiotics. The draft genome revealed a total length of 2,568,615 bp with G+C content of 64.3%. This is the first description of C. lactis isolation from ticks, raising the possibility that ticks could be a vector for this emerging pathogen of companion animals.
Sex and Maturation Differences in Performance of Functional Jumping and Landing Deficits in Youth Athletes
Authors: Fort-Vanmeerhaeghe Azahara , Benet Ariadna , Mirada Sergi , Montalvo Alicia M. , Myer Gregory D.
Published: September 2018

Context: Understanding how neuromuscular and biomechanical deficits that are associated with knee injuries change as youth mature may improve injury prevention strategies in this population. Objective: To investigate sex and maturation differences in jump-landing technique performance in youths using a practical clinical tool. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: High Performance Center Laboratory. Participants: A total of 165 youth athletes were included in this study. Main Outcome Measures: The main outcome measures were each of the 10 items of the modified tuck jump assessment and the total score. These measures include (1) knee valgus at landing, (2) thighs do not reach parallel, (3) thighs not equal side to side, (4) foot placement not shoulder width apart, (5) foot placement not parallel, (6) foot contact timing not equal, (7) excessive landing contact noise, (8) pause between jumps, (9) technique declines prior to 10 seconds, and (10) does not land in same footprint. Results: Only knee valgus at landing had a significant sex × maturation interaction. The main effect of maturation was significant for items 2, 3, 6, 7, 9, and total score. Plyometric technique performance improved with increasing maturation. The main effect of sex was significant for items 1 and 9, with males performing better than females. Conclusions: Female athletes demonstrate increased knee valgus at landing and fatigue relative to males during jump-landing performance. Overall, there was a trend of improved jump-landing performance with maturation.
The Effect of a 20-Week Corrective Exercise Program on Functional Movement Patterns in Youth Elite Male Soccer Players
Authors: Campa Francesco , Spiga Federico , Toselli Stefania
Published: September 2018

Context: Poor functional movement patterns negatively affect the ability to perform fundamental movements with precision and efficiency, increasing injury risk in athletes. Objectives: To examine the effect of a 20-week corrective exercise program during the competitive season on functional movement patterns in youth elite male soccer players. Design: Cohort study. Setting: Team facilities. Participants: Sixty-five youth elite male soccer players (age: 15.89 [0.53] y; weight: 67.42 [6.78] kg; and stature: 175.20 [6.34] cm). Of the 4 teams, 2 were randomly selected to take part in the corrective program. Thus, the players were placed into 2 groups: corrective exercise program and control group. Intervention: Corrective exercise program. Main Outcome Measures: Functional Movement Screen (FMS) was used to assess the presence of dysfunctional, asymmetrical, and painful movements in the players before and after the intervention period. In addition to considering the FMS total score (FMStotal), we separated the screen into 3 parts: FMSmove, FMSflex, and FMSstab. A repeated-measures analysis of variance was conducted to determine the effectiveness of the training program on FMS scores. The chi-square test was performed to determine whether there were significant changes in the frequencies of asymmetric and dysfunctional movements after 20 weeks. Results: No athlete experienced severe injuries during the intervention period. There was a significant group by time interaction (P < .01) for FMStotal, FMSmove, and FMSstab, in which only the corrective exercise program increased their scores after the intervention period (P < .05). A chi-square analysis showed a significant (P < .05) decrease in asymmetric and dysfunctional movements at the follow-up in corrective exercise program, whereas these changes were not observed in the control group. Conclusions: Youth elite soccer players demonstrate a high prevalence of asymmetric movements during FMS testing, but their functional movement patterns can be improved during the competitive season following a specific corrective exercise program.
Activation of Scapular and Lumbopelvic Muscles During Core Exercises Executed on a Whole-Body Wobble Board
Authors: Biscarini Andrea , Contemori Samuele , Grolla Giuditta
Published: September 2018

Context: Previous studies highlighted that exercises executed on unstable surfaces can yield important benefits to the function of the core musculature in rehabilitation settings, general conditioning settings, and athletic training when properly introduced within a periodized training schedule. No previous study has analyzed core-stability exercises executed in lying, quadruped, plank, and bridge positions on a whole-body wobble board (WWB) specifically designed to accommodate the exerciser’s entire body and promote whole-body instability. We have designed a WWB allowed to roll in a plane perpendicular to its longitudinal axis to promote proactive and reactive activation of the core muscles with a transverse or diagonal line of action, which provides trunk and pelvic stability with low spine compression forces. Purpose: To determine the effect of the use of this newly designed WWB by assessing differences in core-muscle activity during core-stability exercises performed on the ground, in a stable condition, and on the WWB. Design: Controlled laboratory study. Setting: Research laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: Eighteen participants recruited from fitness centers. Intervention(s): The electromyographic (EMG) activity of lumbopelvic and scapular muscles has been recorded during core-stability exercises executed on the WWB (unstable condition) and on ground (stable condition). Main Outcome Measure(s): Mean and peak EMG activity were compared between stable and unstable condition with paired t tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. Results: Overall, exercises performed on the WWB yielded significantly higher EMG activity in the serratus anterior and anterolateral abdominal muscles compared with the same exercises executed on the ground. Conversely, for the bird dog exercise, lower-back muscle activity was significantly higher on the ground. Conclusions: Compared with the ground, core-stability exercises executed on WWB constitute a simple and effective strategy to increase the activity level of the core muscles that control transverse-plane lumbopelvic and trunk stability, avoiding the use of external overload.
Intrahepatic Administration of Liposomal Amphotericin B (Ambisome) for the Management of a Liver Abscess from
Candida albicans
in a Preterm Infant
Authors: Auriti Cinzia , Ronchetti Maria Paola , Bersani Iliana , Gennari Fabrizio , Piersigilli Fiammetta
Published: September 2018

Hepatic fungal abscesses are rare in the neonatal period and often constitute a severe complication of the catheterization of the umbilical vessels. Such life-threatening lesions are observed more frequently in preterm than in other newborn infants and the optimal treatment remains uncertain.
In Planta
Sporulation of Frankia spp. as a Determinant of Alder-Symbiont Interactions
Authors: Schwob G. , Roy M. , Pozzi A. C. , Herrera-Belaroussi A. , Fernandez M. P.
Published: September 2018

Most
Frankia
-actinorhiza plant symbioses are capable of high rates of nitrogen fixation comparable to those found on legumes. Yet, our understanding of the ecology and distribution of
Frankia
spp. is still very limited. Several studies have focused on the distribution patterns of
Frankia
spp., demonstrating a combination of host and pedoclimatic parameters in their biogeography. However, very few have considered the
in planta
sporulation form of the strain, although it is a unique feature among all symbiotic plant-associated microbes. Compared with Sp−
Frankia
strains, Sp+ strains would be obligate symbionts that are highly dependent on the presence of a compatible host species and with lower efficiency in nitrogen fixation. Understanding the biogeographical drivers of Sp+
Frankia
strains might help elucidate the ecological role of
in planta
sporulation and the extent to which this trait mediates host-partner interactions in the alder-
Frankia
-ECM fungal symbiosis.
Ceftriaxone Administration Disrupts Intestinal Homeostasis, Mediating Noninflammatory Proliferation and Dissemination of Commensal Enterococci
Authors: Chakraborty Rajrupa , Lam Vy , Kommineni Sushma , Stromich Jeremiah , Hayward Michael , Kristich Christopher J. , Salzman Nita H.
Published: September 2018

Enterococci are Gram-positive commensals of the mammalian intestinal tract and harbor intrinsic resistance to broad-spectrum cephalosporins. Disruption of colonization resistance in humans by antibiotics allows enterococci to proliferate in the gut and cause disseminated infections.
Common iliac artery thrombosis as a possible complication of the pluck technique in nephroureterectomy
Authors: Nakayama Ryo , Katagiri Akiyoshi , Ando Takashi , Mizusawa Takaki
Published: September 2018

Common iliac artery (CIA) thrombosis is a rare surgical complication which may cause serious leg damage and may occasionally be fatal. We experienced two cases of CIA thrombosis in nephroureterectomy with the pluck technique for upper tract urothelial carcinoma. Patients were treated using emergent femoro–femoral bypass, and one patient was treated with fasciotomy of the lower extremity for compartment syndrome. CIA thrombosis is considered a possible complication of nephroureterectomy, particularly with the pluck technique in open surgery. Arterial thrombosis in intrapelvic surgery including nephroureterectomy should be carefully considered for patients at risk.
Longitudinal analysis of cardiovascular disease risk profile in neighbourhood poverty subgroups: 5-year results from an afterschool fitness programme in the USA
Authors: D’Agostino Emily M , Patel Hersila H , Hansen Eric , Mathew M Sunil , Nardi Maria , Messiah Sarah E
Published: September 2018

Background

The WHO calls for affordable population-based prevention strategies for reducing the global burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) on morbidity and mortality; however, effective, sustainable and accessible community-based approaches for CVD prevention in at-risk youth have yet to be identified. We examined the effects of implementing a daily park-based afterschool fitness programme on youth CVD risk profiles over 5 years and across area poverty subgroups.

Methods

The study included 2264 youth (mean age 9.4 years, 54% male, 50% Hispanic, 47% non-Hispanic black, 70% high/very high area poverty) in Miami, Florida, USA. We used three-level repeated measures mixed models to determine the longitudinal effects of programme participation on modifiable CVD outcomes (2010–2016).

Results

Duration of programme participation was significantly associated with CVD risk profile improvements, including body mass index (BMI) z-score, diastolic/systolic blood pressure, skinfold thicknesses, waist–hip ratio, sit-ups, push-ups, Progressive Aerobic Cardiovascular Endurance Run (PACER) score, 400 m run time, probability of developing systolic/diastolic hypertension and overweight/obesity in high/very high poverty neighbourhoods (P<0.001). Diastolic blood pressure decreased 3.4 percentile points (95% CI −5.85 to −0.85), 8.1 percentile points (95% CI –11.98 to −4.26), 6.1 percentile points (95% CI −11.49 to −0.66), 7.6 percentile points (95% CI −15.33 to –0.15) and 11.4 percentile points (95% CI −25.32 to 2.61) for 1–5 years, respectively, in high/very high poverty areas. In contrast, significant improvements were found only for PACER score and waist–hip ratio in low/mid poverty areas.

Conclusion

This analysis presents compelling evidence demonstrating that park-based afterschool programmes can successfully maintain or improve at-risk youth CVD profiles over multiple years.
Occupational exposure to pesticides is associated with differential DNA methylation
Authors: van der Plaat Diana A , de Jong Kim , de Vries Maaike , van Diemen Cleo C , Nedeljković Ivana , Amin Najaf , Kromhout Hans ,   Biobank-based Integrative Omics Study Consortium, Vermeulen Roel , Postma Dirkje S , van Duijn Cornelia M , Boezen H Marike , Vonk Judith M
Published: September 2018

Objectives

Occupational pesticide exposure is associated with a wide range of diseases, including lung diseases, but it is largely unknown how pesticides influence airway disease pathogenesis. A potential mechanism might be through epigenetic mechanisms, like DNA methylation. Therefore, we assessed associations between occupational exposure to pesticides and genome-wide DNA methylation sites.

Methods

1561 subjects of LifeLines were included with either no (n=1392), low (n=108) or high (n=61) exposure to any type of pesticides (estimated based on current or last held job). Blood DNA methylation levels were measured using Illumina 450K arrays. Associations between pesticide exposure and 420 938 methylation sites (CpGs) were assessed using robust linear regression adjusted for appropriate confounders. In addition, we performed genome-wide stratified and interaction analyses by gender, smoking and airway obstruction status, and assessed associations between gene expression and methylation for genome-wide significant CpGs (n=2802).

Results

In total for all analyses, high pesticide exposure was genome-wide significantly (false discovery rate P<0.05) associated with differential DNA methylation of 31 CpGs annotated to 29 genes. Twenty of these CpGs were found in subjects with airway obstruction. Several of the identified genes, for example, RYR1, ALLC, PTPRN2, LRRC3B, PAX2 and VTRNA2-1, are genes previously linked to either pesticide exposure or lung-related diseases. Seven out of 31 CpGs were associated with gene expression levels.

Conclusions

We show for the first time that occupational exposure to pesticides is genome-wide associated with differential DNA methylation. Further research should reveal whether this differential methylation plays a role in the airway disease pathogenesis induced by pesticides.
Nonlinear Stochastic Optimal Control of MDOF Partially Observable Linear Systems Excited by Combined Harmonic and Wide-Band Noises
Authors: Hu R. C. , Wang X. F. , Gu X. D. , Huan R. H.
Published: September 2018

In this paper, nonlinear stochastic optimal control of multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) partially observable linear systems subjected to combined harmonic and wide-band random excitations is investigated. Based on the separation principle, the control problem of a partially observable system is converted into a completely observable one. The dynamic programming equation for the completely observable control problem is then set up based on the stochastic averaging method and stochastic dynamic programming principle, from which the nonlinear optimal control law is derived. To illustrate the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed control strategy, the responses of the uncontrolled and optimal controlled systems are respectively obtained by solving the associated Fokker–Planck–Kolmogorov (FPK) equation. Numerical results show the proposed control strategy can dramatically reduce the response of stochastic systems subjected to both harmonic and wide-band random excitations.
Corollary Discharge Contributions to Perceptual Continuity Across Saccades
Authors: Wurtz Robert H.
Published: September 2018

Our vision depends upon shifting our high-resolution fovea to objects of interest in the visual field. Each saccade displaces the image on the retina, which should produce a chaotic scene with jerks occurring several times per second. It does not. This review examines how an internal signal in the primate brain (a corollary discharge) contributes to visual continuity across saccades. The article begins with a review of evidence for a corollary discharge in the monkey and evidence from inactivation experiments that it contributes to perception. The next section examines a specific neuronal mechanism for visual continuity, based on corollary discharge that is referred to as visual remapping. Both the basic characteristics of this anticipatory remapping and the factors that control it are enumerated. The last section considers hypotheses relating remapping to the perceived visual continuity across saccades, including remapping's contribution to perceived visual stability across saccades.
Distribution Network Risk Assessment Using Multicriteria Fuzzy Influence Diagram
Authors: Janjic Aleksandar
Published: September 2018

Risk assessment of distribution assets is one of the most important factors in the process of network development or maintenance planning decision-making. The process of decision-making is faced with uncertainties, involving technical, financial, safety, environmental, and other operational issues that make standard risk assessment techniques insufficient. Probabilistic uncertainties require appropriate mathematical modeling and quantification when predicting future state of the nature or the value of certain parameters. The paper is proposing a new methodology for the multicriteria risk assessment of the distribution network assets, based on influence diagrams and fuzzy probabilities. Influence diagram has been used to determine all relevant factors concerning risks and their interdependencies are depicted. Fuzzy probabilities are represented by triangular fuzzy numbers with constraints on feasibility of elicited probabilities. This methodology enables the decision process in uncertain environment, with the impact evaluation of each particular distribution asset, or the asset component. The methodology is illustrated on the example of a distribution substation circuit breaker maintenance strategy selection.
Broadening Band of Wind Speed for Aeroelastic Energy Scavenging of a Cylinder through Buffeting in the Wakes of a Squared Prism
Authors: Wang Junlei , Geng Linfeng , Zhang Meng , Zhao Guifeng , Zhang Min , Zhang Zhien , Li Yaoliang
Published: September 2018

Small‐scale energy harvesting from ambient vibration induced by aerodynamic instabilities can be used for wireless sensing applications. The configuration with a bluff body attached to a piezoelectric cantilever has been exploited in many studies. For low‐wind energy harvesting, vortex‐induced vibration is investigated more frequently than other types of flow‐induced motions, such as galloping and flutter, because of its quasisteady behavior called the potential lock‐in phenomenon. In practice, a stationary square column is placed before the energy harvester to generate wake shedding, which can broaden the bandwidth of the energy harvester compared with a pure energy harvester equipped with a single bluff body. This paper presents a proposed CFD method coupled with an electromechanical model to predict the performance of the energy harvester. The proposed approach is verified with our experimental setup. The time history of the voltage output and the frequency response is obtained by performing the relevant experiments. A subsequent CFD study is performed to investigate the flow patterns of the present energy harvesting system.
Model Test of the Reinforcement of Surface Soil by Plant Roots under the Influence of Precipitation
Authors: Wang Hengxing , He Yulong , Shang Zufeng , Han Chunpeng , Wang Yilu
Published: September 2018

We present the results of the reinforcement of plant root systems in surface soil in a model test to simulate actual precipitation conditions. In the test, Eleusine indica was selected as herbage to reinforce the soil. Based on the various moisture contents of plant roots in a pull‐out test, a fitting formula describing the interfacial friction strength between the roots and soil and soil moisture content was obtained to explain the amount of slippage of the side slope during the process of rainfall. The experimental results showed that the root systems of plants successfully reinforced soil and stabilized the water content in the surface soil of a slope and that the occurrence time of landslides was delayed significantly in the grass‐planting slope model. After the simulated rainfall started, the reinforcement effect of the plant roots changed. As the rainfall increased, the interfacial friction between the roots and the soil exhibited a negative power function relationship with the water content. These conclusions can be used as a reference for the design of plant slope protection and reinforcement.