bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic implications of genetic copy number variation in epilepsy plus
Authors: Coppola Antonietta , Cellini Elena , Stamberger Hannah , Saarentaus Elmo , Cetica Valentina , Lal Dennis , Djémié Tania , Bartnik‐Glaska Magdalena , Ceulemans Berten , Helen Cross J. , Deconinck Tine , Masi Salvatore De , Dorn Thomas , Guerrini Renzo , Hoffman‐Zacharska Dorotha , Kooy Frank , Lagae Lieven , Lench Nicholas , Lemke Johannes R. , Lucenteforte Ersilia , Madia Francesca , Mefford Heather C. , Morrogh Deborah , Nuernberg Peter , Palotie Aarno , Schoonjans An‐Sofie , Striano Pasquale , Szczepanik Elzbieta , Tostevin Anna , Vermeesch Joris R. , Van Esch Hilde , Van Paesschen Wim , Waters Jonathan J , Weckhuysen Sarah , Zara Federico , De Jonghe Peter , Sisodiya Sanjay M. , Marini Carla ,   EuroEPINOMICS‐RES Consortium,   EpiCNV Consortium
Published: March 2019

Objective

Copy number variations (CNVs) represent a significant genetic risk for several neurodevelopmental disorders including epilepsy. As knowledge increases, reanalysis of existing data is essential. Reliable estimates of the contribution of CNVs to epilepsies from sizeable populations are not available.

Methods

We assembled a cohort of 1255 patients with preexisting array comparative genomic hybridization or single nucleotide polymorphism array based CNV data. All patients had “epilepsy plus,” defined as epilepsy with comorbid features, including intellectual disability, psychiatric symptoms, and other neurological and nonneurological features. CNV classification was conducted using a systematic filtering workflow adapted to epilepsy.

Results

Of 1097 patients remaining after genetic data quality control, 120 individuals (10.9%) carried at least one autosomal CNV classified as pathogenic; 19 individuals (1.7%) carried at least one autosomal CNV classified as possibly pathogenic. Eleven patients (1%) carried more than one (possibly) pathogenic CNV. We identified CNVs covering recently reported (HNRNPU) or emerging (RORB) epilepsy genes, and further delineated the phenotype associated with mutations of these genes. Additional novel epilepsy candidate genes emerge from our study. Comparing phenotypic features of pathogenic CNV carriers to those of noncarriers of pathogenic CNVs, we show that patients with nonneurological comorbidities, especially dysmorphism, were more likely to carry pathogenic CNVs (odds ratio = 4.09, confidence interval = 2.51‐6.68; P = 2.34 × 10−9). Meta‐analysis including data from published control groups showed that the presence or absence of epilepsy did not affect the detected frequency of CNVs.

Significance

The use of a specifically adapted workflow enabled identification of pathogenic autosomal CNVs in 10.9% of patients with epilepsy plus, which rose to 12.7% when we also considered possibly pathogenic CNVs. Our data indicate that epilepsy with comorbid features should be considered an indication for patients to be selected for a diagnostic algorithm including CNV detection. Collaborative large‐scale CNV reanalysis leads to novel declaration of pathogenicity in unexplained cases and can promote discovery of promising candidate epilepsy genes.
Who cares? A lack of self‐care for women in the non‐profit/non‐governmental sector
Authors: Bandali Alifa Zafirah
Published: March 2019

In this article I examine the lack of self‐care regimes for women working in the non‐profit/non‐governmental sector. While I draw on ethnographic research conducted in the Malaysian context of women's organizations, the issue of self‐care for activists and feminist activists is a global one that crosses borders and boundaries. I explore the gendered nature of care and care professions to demonstrate how women are predominantly affected in these working environments. To date, there has been little scholarship on self‐care and care in non‐profit/non‐governmental working environments. Using interviews with women working in the sector, I argue that women's emotional, mental and physical health comes at a cost in these hectic workplaces. This article contributes to the literature on gender, work and care in women's organizations by taking seriously women's concerns working in these spaces, where they experience self‐neglect and institutional barriers in care regimes.
Optimal divestment time in supply chain redesign under oligopoly: evidence from shale oil production plants
Authors: Alavifard Farzad , Ivanov Dmitry , He Jian
Published: March 2019

This paper investigates the optimal timing for the closure of production plants in the context of supply chain redesign. We consider producers operating under oligopoly and analyze their optimal decisions with the aid of real options. We contextualize this study in the energy supply chain, where revenue is heavily influenced by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). It is optimal to divest from a production if certain values pass below the liquidation cost. The optimal time to divest is, then, the optimal time to exercise a perpetual American put option on the total value of the project, where the strike price is the liquidation value and expenses. The OPEC oligpolistic power is modeled with the aid of a hidden market in a Hidden Markov Model, since the state of the Markov chain is not directly visible to the production manager. The reported results can be used by supply chain managers in decision making on production network redesign in the oligopolistic environment considering present value of plants and cash flows in the supply chain. The advantage of the modeling approach proposed is its analytical tractability, especially for project valuation and real‐option problems.
Variations in study outcomes relative to intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol data analysis techniques in the evaluation of efficacy for treatment of venous leg ulcers with dehydrated human amnion/chorion membrane allograft
Authors: Bianchi Christian , Tettelbach William , Istwan Niki , Hubbs Brandon , Kot Kimberly , Harris Stan , Fetterolf Donald
Published: March 2019

Statistical interpretation of data collected in a randomised controlled trial (RCT) is conducted on the intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and/or the per‐protocol (PP) study populations. ITT analysis is a comparison of treatment groups including all patients as originally allocated after randomisation regardless if treatment was initiated or completed. PP analysis is a comparison of treatment groups including only those patients who completed the treatment as originally allocated, although it is often criticised because of its potential to instil bias. A previous report from an RCT conducted to evaluate the efficacy of dehydrated human amnion/chorion membrane allograft (EpiFix) as an adjunct to standard comprehensive wound therapy consisting of moist dressings and multi‐layer compression in the healing of venous leg ulcers (VLUs) only reported PP study results (n = 109, 52 EpiFix and 57 standard care patients), although there were 128 patients randomised: 64 to the EpiFix group and 64 to the standard care group. Primary study outcome was the incidence of healing at 12 weeks. The purpose of the present study is to report ITT results on all 128 randomised subjects and assess if both ITT and PP data analyses arrive at the same conclusion of the efficacy of EpiFix as a treatment for VLU. Rates of healing for the ITT and PP populations were, respectively, 50% and 60% for those receiving EpiFix and 31% and 35% for those in the standard care cohort. Within both ITT and PP analyses, these differences were statistically significant; P = 0.0473, ITT and P = 0.0128, PP. The Kaplan‐Meier plot of time to heal within 12 weeks for the ITT and PP populations demonstrated a superior wound‐healing trajectory for EpiFix compared with VLUs treated with standard care alone. These data provide clinicians and health policymakers an additional level of assurance regarding the effectiveness of EpiFix.
Managing keloid scars: From radiation therapy to actual and potential drug deliveries
Authors: Huang Chenyu , Liu Longwei , You Zhifeng , Du Yanan , Ogawa Rei
Published: March 2019

The aetiology of keloids is becoming clearer, but many questions remain, including about the most optimal treatment. Current therapies include surgical excision, radiotherapy, and various pharmaceutical drugs. However, none of these drugs are keloid‐specific. Moreover, all current interventions are associated with high recurrence rates. Here, we review the pharmaceutical interventions that are currently available. All are based on the fact that keloids are an expanding solid mass with intense chronic inflammation at its advancing edges. Consequently, current pharmaceuticals aim to reduce the mass and/or symptoms of keloids, similar to surgery and radiotherapy. They include chemotherapies, immunotherapies, volume‐reducing therapies, and anti‐inflammatory therapies. We also describe new advances in keloid pharmaceuticals. They include drugs that were designed to treat systemic diseases such as hypertension or breast cancer but were found to also treat keloids. Furthermore, recent progress in genetic, epigenetic, and stem cell therapies suggests that they could become useful in the keloid field. This review of pharmaceutical advances will hopefully promote additional research and the development of effective and specific pharmaceuticals for keloids.
Sustained blood pressure control and coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure, and mortality: An observational analysis of ALLHAT
Authors: Bowling C. Barrett , Davis Barry R. , Luciano Alison , Simpson Lara M. , Sloane Richard , Pieper Carl F. , Einhorn Paula T. , Oparil Suzanne , Muntner Paul
Published: March 2019

Achieving blood pressure (BP) control is associated with lower cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, but less is known about CVD risk associated with sustained BP control over time. This observational analysis of the Antihypertensive and Lipid‐Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT) was restricted to participants with four to seven visits with systolic BP (SBP) measurements during a 22‐month period (n = 24 309). The authors categorized participants as having sustained BP control (SBP < 140 mm Hg) at 100%, 75% to <100%, 50% to <75%, and <50% of visits during this period. Outcomes included fatal coronary heart disease (CHD)/nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, heart failure (HF), a composite CVD outcome (fatal CHD/nonfatal MI, stroke, or HF), and mortality. Hazard ratios (HRs) for the association of category of sustained BP control for each outcome were obtained using proportional hazards models. SBP control was present among 20.0% of participants at 100%, 16.4% at 75% to less than 100%, 27.0% at 50% to less than 75%, and 36.6% at less than 50% of visits. Compared to those with SBP control at 100% visits, adjusted HR (95% CI) among those with SBP control at <50% of visits was 1.16 (0.93‐1.44) for fatal CHD/nonfatal MI, 1.71 (1.26‐2.32) for stroke, 1.63 (1.30‐2.06) for HF, 1.39 (1.20‐1.62) for the composite CVD outcome, and 1.14 (0.99‐1.30) for mortality. Sustained SBP control may be beneficial for preventing stroke, HF, and CVD outcomes in adults taking antihypertensive medication.
Concurrent validity of Nokia Go activity tracker in walking and free‐living conditions
Authors: Lebleu Julien , Detrembleur Christine , Guebels Camille , Hamblenne Pauline , Valet Maxime
Published: March 2019

Rationale, aims, and objectives

Consumer‐based activity trackers aim at quantifying physical activity in a wide range of contexts. Nevertheless, they need to be validated before they are confidently used. This study assessed the concurrent validity of the Nokia Go against reference devices, according to different sensor locations, in two measurement conditions: during a walking task and during a 24‐hour free‐living condition.

Methods

We examined the agreement between devices and between locations in the number of steps and total sleep time by using intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland‐Altman method.

Results

In the walking task, the agreement is good to excellent for steps between the Nokia Go and the reference device. In the free‐living condition, there is a systematic underestimation of steps in comparison with the ActiGraph. Excellent agreement was found between locations. The device worn at the hip indicated the lowest number of steps, and the device located at the dominant wrist indicated the greatest number of steps.

Conclusions

There are high discrepancies in step count between devices because of the different types of activities in daily life. The Nokia Go may be confidently used for step counting during pure walking tasks, at different locations. However, the lack of concurrent validity with ActiGraph call for caution regarding their use in daily living conditions.
Microbiological and chemical quality of ice used to preserve fish in Lisbon marketplaces
Authors: Teixeira Pedro , Brandão João , Silva Susana , Babič Monika Novak , Gunde‐Cimerman Nina , Pires Joana , Costa Sílvia , Valério Elisabete
Published: March 2019

Ice is widely used to preserve fish on markets, playing a major role in the food industry. If manufactured, stored or distributed in inadequate sanitary conditions, it can represent a considerable health risk for both consumers and professionals. The present study characterizes ice used in marketplaces, on microbiological and chemical parameters. The aim was to assess potential risks on occupational exposure and consumer safety and therewith plan orientation guidelines. Sampling took place in 18 marketplaces in Lisbon, with ice samples collected at three different stages—production (n = 29), storage (n = 30), and product‐contact (n = 29). No significant contamination was found in production and storage stages, demonstrating that ice production and storage procedures are adequate regarding sanitary conditions. With exception for Salmonella, significantly higher concentrations of microbial parameters were identified in product‐contact stages, specifically Total Coliforms (548 MPN/100 mL), Escherichia coli (1 MPN/100 mL), Enterococci (29 MPN/100 mL), Staphylococcus aureus (271 CFU/100 mL), HPC at 5°, 22°, and 37° (>301 CFU/mL). Our study also shows that the majority of samples from ice production and storage comply with national regulations regarding drinking water quality. Yet, occupational health and consumer risks may still exist at the final product‐contact stage, as significant contamination was detected..

Practical applications

The present study can be used as a model for ice quality monitoring in fish preservation, serving as a tool for quality control and fast contamination detection during the several process stages.

This monitoring model is an important contribution for assuring the safety of the preserved products, as well as, occupational health improvement and consumer risk protection.
Hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type IC accompanied by upper motor neuron abnormalities and type II juxtafoveal retinal telangiectasias
Authors: Triplett James , Nicholson Garth , Sue Carolyn , Hornemann Thorsten , Yiannikas Con
Published: March 2019

Hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy type I (HSAN‐1) is an autosomal dominant sensory neuropathy occurring secondary to mutations in the SPTLC1 and SPTLC2 genes. We present two generations of a single family with Ser384Phe mutation in the SPTLC2 gene located on chromosome 14q24 characterized by a typical HSAN‐1c presentation, with additional findings upper motor neuron signs, early demyelinating features on nerve conduction studies, and type II juxtafoveal retinal telangiectasias also known as macular telangiectasias (MacTel II). Although HSAN1 is characterized as an axonal neuropathy, demyelinating features were identified in two subjects on serial nerve conduction studies comprising motor conduction block, temporal dispersion, and prolongation of F‐waves. MacTell II is a rare syndrome characterized by bilateral macular depigmentation and Müller cell loss. It has a presumed genetic basis, and these cases suggest that the accumulation of toxic sphingoplipids may lead to Müller cell degeneration, subsequent neuronal loss, depigmentation, and progressive central macular thinning.
Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus and allergic contact dermatitis: A significant association
Authors: Tammaro Antonella , Magri Francesca , Iacovino Chiara , Zollo Verdiana , Parisella Francesca Romana , Persechino Severino
Published: March 2019

Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus (LSA) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease of unknown etiology. It mainly affects the anogenital area, while the extragenital involvement is uncommon. It manifests as pale, ivory‐colored lesions and partially atrophic skin. We report a case of a woman presenting to our department with LSA lesions at the level of the armpit. Furthermore, the patient was allergic to nickel sulfate and balsam of Peru. We assume the presence of an association between nickel allergy and onset of LSA.
Effect of a new cyclic derivative of GABA, RGPU-207, on the functions of cardiac and cerebral mitochondria of stressed animals
Authors: Mokrousov Ivan Sergeevich , Perfilova Valentina Nikolaevna , Prokofiev Igor Igorevich , Popova Tamara Alexandrovna , Vodopyanova Ekaterina Gennadievna , Vasil'eva Olga Sergeevna , Tyurenkov Ivan Nikolaevich
Published: March 2019

Objectives

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of a new derivative of GABA, RGPU-207 compound, on the mitochondrial functions of stressed animals.

Methods

RGPU-207 and the comparator drugs (phenibut and piracetam) were administered intraperitoneally to unstressed and stressed male rats at a dose of 9.4, 25 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. The oxygen consumption by cardiac and cerebral mitochondria in state 3 and 4 and Chance's respiratory control ratio (RCR) was investigated. The concentration of lipid peroxidation products (LPO) such as malondialdehyde (MDA), conjugated dienes (CD) and diketones was evaluated in the isolated mitochondria, as well as the activity of the antioxidant system (AOS) enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GP) and catalase).

Key findings

A new cyclic GABA derivative, RGPU-207 compound, at the dose of 9.4 mg/kg promotes a decline in MDA, diketone and CD concentrations in mitochondria and increases the levels of SOD, GP and catalase activity. Mitochondrial functional activity increases: oxygen consumption by cerebral mitochondria in state 4 decreases when complex I of the respiratory chain is activated, while malate-dependent state 3 respiration of cardiac mitochondria tends to increase. RCR of cardiac mitochondria increases when complexes I and II are involved. In cerebral mitochondria, malate-dependent and succinate-dependent RCR rise.

Conclusions

Twenty-four-hour immobilization and pain stress activate LPO processes inhibit the activity of the aos enzymes and decrease the functional activity of cardiac and cerebral mitochondria. RGPU-207 restricts LPO, enhances the antioxidant enzyme activity and improves the mitochondrial respiration. The efficacy of RGPU-207 is comparable with phenibut and piracetam.
The Perceptions of Fathers About Parenting a Child With Developmental Disability: A Scoping Review
Authors: Boyd Matthew J. , Iacono Teresa , McDonald Rachael
Published: March 2019

Compared to mothers, research into the role and involvement of fathers in families with a child with a disability appears limited. The aim was to scope and critically appraise the available literature, with a focus on fathers' perceptions and experiences of their role in parenting a child with a developmental disability. A systematic search was conducted of research published from 2000 to 2017 that addressed the aim. Articles were included if data were available about fathers' experiences and/or perceptions of their role in relation to a child with disability; those addressing stress responses to fathering only were excluded. Information was extracted for summary. Twenty‐one studies (12 quantitative, 9 qualitative), conducted across 10 countries, met inclusion criteria. Key themes of qualitative studies included the process of fathers adapting to their child's disability, planning for the future, involvement with health services and how their perceptions and experiences shaped their participation in the family. Results of quantitative studies demonstrated differences in experiences of fathers compared to mothers as well as in approaches fathers applied to cope with challenging experiences. The review highlights current gaps in understanding the experiences of fathers and their perceptions about their own roles in parenting a child with disability. There is a need for further research into factors that might influence fathers' participation within their families.
Rural‐Urban Disparities in Total Physical Activity, Body Composition, and Related Health Indicators: An Atlantic PATH Study
Authors: Forbes Cynthia C. , Yu Zhijie Michael , Cui Yunsong , DeClercq Vanessa , Grandy Scott A. , Parker Louise , Sweeney Ellen , Dummer Trevor J. B. , Keats Melanie R.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

To describe and compare the sociodemographic and lifestyle characteristics of urban and rural residents in Atlantic Canada.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analyses of baseline data from the Atlantic Partnership for Tomorrow's Health cohort were conducted. Specifically, 17,054 adults (35‐69 years) who provided sociodemographic characteristics, measures of obesity, and a record of chronic disease and health behaviors were included in the analyses. Multiple linear regression and logistic regression models were used to calculate the multivariable‐adjusted beta coefficients (β), odds ratios (OR), and related 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Findings

After adjusting for age, sex, and province, when compared to urban participants, rural residents were significantly more likely to: be classified as very active (OR: 1.19, CI: 1.11‐1.27), be obese (OR: 1.13, 1.05‐1.21), to present with abdominal obesity (OR: 1.08, CI: 1.01‐1.15), and have a higher body fat percentage (β: 0.40, CI: 0.12‐0.68) and fat mass index (β: 0.32, CI: 0.19‐0.46). Rural residents were significantly less likely to be regular or habitual drinkers (OR: 0.83, CI: 0.78‐0.89). Significant differences remained after further adjustment for confounding sociodemographic, lifestyle, and health characteristics. No significant differences in smoking behavior, fruit and vegetable intake, multimorbidity, or waist circumference were found.

Conclusions

As expected, obesity prevalence was higher in rural Atlantic Canadians. In contrast to much of the existing literature, we found that rural participants were more likely to report higher levels of total physical activity and lower alcohol consumption. Findings suggest that novel obesity prevention strategies may be needed for rural populations.
Regional Wage Responsiveness to Unemployment — Rural–Urban Heterogeneity and Policy Implications
Authors: Johansen Ulf , Egging Ruud , Johansen Kåre
Published: March 2019

Previous studies of regional wage formation in Norway have indicated low regional wage responses to regional unemployment. However, previous analyses have not investigated whether wages are more rigid in rural areas than in urban areas, which in the case of Norway is important for the efficiency of regional differentiated payroll taxes. In the paper, the authors focus on the rural–urban nature of the wage curve in Norway. We re‐estimate the wage curve on the basis of a large Norwegian microlevel dataset covering the entire Norwegian labour market during the years 2008–13. Our findings are rural–urban heterogeneity in the wage curve, with higher unemployment elasticity of pay in the urban region than in the rural regions. The elasticity of the average rural wage curve is about 70 per cent that of the of the urban wage curve. The authors conclude that to achieve the goals of regional policy in Norway, more rigid wages in rural areas seem to be an argument for continuing to have an active labour market policy for rural regions.
Stringent response leads to continued cell division and a temporal restart of DNA replication after initial shutdown in Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Kemter Franziska S. , Schallopp Nadine , Sperlea Theodor , Serrania Javier , Sobetzko Patrick , Fritz Georg , Waldminghaus Torsten
Published: March 2019

Vibrio cholerae is an aquatic bacterium with the potential to infect humans and cause the cholera disease. While most bacteria have single chromosomes, the V. cholerae genome is encoded on two replicons of different size. This study focuses on the DNA replication and cell division of this bi‐chromosomal bacterium during the stringent response induced by starvation stress. V. cholerae cells were found to initially shut DNA replication initiation down upon stringent response induction by the serine analog serine hydroxamate. Surprisingly, cells temporarily restart their DNA replication before finally reaching a state with fully replicated single chromosome sets. This division‐replication pattern is very different to that of the related single chromosome model bacterium Escherichia coli. Within the replication restart phase, both chromosomes of V. cholerae maintained their known order of replication timing to achieve termination synchrony. Using flow cytometry combined with mathematical modeling, we established that a phase of cellular regrowth be the reason for the observed restart of DNA replication after the initial shutdown. Our study shows that although the stringent response induction itself is widely conserved, bacteria developed different ways of how to react to the sensed nutrient limitation, potentially reflecting their individual lifestyle requirements.
On Probability Distributions of the Operational Law of Container Liner Ships
Authors: Song Yunting , Wang Nuo
Published: March 2019

The probability distribution of the operational law of container liner ships in port is the significant theoretical basis for the study of container liners and ports, but there has been a lack of corresponding statistical analysis and theoretical research on that distribution since maritime container transportation came into being. The main purpose of this paper is to identify probabilistic models of the operational law of container liners by statistically analysing the operation data collected from Dalian, Kaohsiung and Rotterdam ports. The results demonstrate that both the interarrival time and the handling time of container liner ships follow higher order Erlang distributions. Under the combined influence of schedule constraints and the interference of some uncertain factors, container liners run between randomness and certainty, presenting the same feature as higher order Erlang distributions. In addition, the world container trade in container ports is subject to similar operational rules and time limits, so it is reasonable to deduce that the above conclusion could be generalized to other container ports. Finally, this paper quantitatively evaluates the degree of port congestion under various probabilistic models, which shows that the study not only has theoretical significance but also values in application.
Stress coping styles among anaesthesiology and intensive care unit personnel – links to the work environment and personal characteristics: a multicentre survey study
Authors: Kwiatosz‐Muc Magdalena , Fijałkowska‐Nestorowicz Anna , Fijałkowska Magdalena , Aftyka Anna , Pietras Paulina , Kowalczyk Michał
Published: March 2019

Background

High levels of stress among anaesthesiology and intensive care unit workers are commonly reported. Personnel in these units are prone to stress because of specific characteristics of their work. Their development of skills to cope with stress may affect their psychophysical condition and, consequently, patient safety.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to define the coping styles of anaesthesiology and intensive care unit personnel and to evaluate the connections between the work environment as well as personal characteristics and the dominant coping styles.

Methods

Anaesthesiology and intensive care unit personnel from 15 selected Polish hospitals were surveyed using the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations, which examines task‐oriented coping, emotion‐oriented coping and avoidance‐oriented coping. The Perceived Stress Scale was used to assess stress levels.

Results

The analysis included 425 successfully completed surveys. The examined population was divided into two groups: Group N comprised 311 nurses (73.18%) and group P comprised 114 physicians (26.82%). For 167 participants (39.29%), the dominant coping style was defined. The most common style was the task‐oriented coping style; it was dominant in 96 participants (22.58% of the entire examined population). This style was significantly predominant among men. The domination of some coping styles coexisted with marital status, number of children and financial situation. The occurrence of different coping styles did not significantly differ among workers at different‐sized hospitals, with different job seniority or with different living locations. Perceived stress was correlated with all coping styles.

Conclusions

Work‐related stress among anaesthesiology and intensive care unit workers is an important problem. Further investigations of stress levels and the causes and effects of stress in this population are necessary.
The relationship of postpartum sleep quality and breastfeeding self‐efficacy of Turkish mothers
Authors: Aksu Aslıhan , Vefikulucay Yilmaz Duygu
Published: March 2019

Introduction

Breastfeeding self‐efficacy reflects the mother's confidence regarding breastfeeding, and it positively affects breastfeeding. Traditionally, people attach importance to breastfeeding in Turkey and the vast majority of mothers breastfeed their babies. It is a known fact that mothers feel sleepless and tired in the postpartum period reduces the amount of secreted milk. However, it is not known whether there is a relationship between the perception of breastfeeding self‐efficacy which positively affects breastfeeding and sleep quality of the mothers in this period.

Aim

This study was conducted in order to determine the relationship between sleep quality and breastfeeding self‐efficacy of the mothers in the postpartum period.

Materials and methods

This descriptive study included 128 primiparous women who had vaginal deliveries from 2 January to 27 May 2018 in a public obstetrics and children's hospital in Mersin. The data of the research were gathered with a questionnaire intended for collecting the sociodemographic characteristics of mothers who completed their second week in the postpartum period, Postpartum Sleep Quality Scale intended for determining their sleep quality and Breastfeeding Self‐efficacy Scale intended for determining their breastfeeding self‐efficacy. The data obtained were assessed with the Pearson correlation coefficient to determine the relationship between the descriptive statistics and two continuous variables.

Results

The mean score gotten by the mothers from Postpartum Sleep Quality Scale and Breastfeeding Self‐efficacy Scale was determined to be ‘33.57 ± 11.26’ and ‘46.82 ± 14.89’, respectively. A strong relationship in the negative direction was detected between the scores gotten from Postpartum Sleep Quality Scale and Breastfeeding Self‐efficacy Scale (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

As a result of the research, it was determined that as the sleep quality of mothers in the postpartum period increases their breastfeeding self‐efficacy increases as well. In the light of the results obtained, it is suggested that nurses, being aware that there is a strong relationship between sleep quality and breastfeeding self‐efficacy in the postpartum period, should pay more attention to the role of education and counselling in these subjects. In addition, it is recommended that nurses make attempts intended for improving the sleep quality of primiparous individuals in order to increase their self‐efficacy of breastfeeding.
Evolution of an ancient (Lower Cretaceous) marginal‐marine system from tide‐dominated to wave‐dominated deposition, McMurray Formation
Authors: Weleschuk Zennon P. , Dashtgard Shahin E.
Published: March 2019

Regionally extensive parasequences in the upper McMurray Formation, Grouse Paleovalley, north‐east Alberta, Canada, preserve a shift in depositional processes in a paralic environment from tide domination, with notable fluvial influence, through to wave domination. Three stacked parasequences form the upper McMurray Formation and are separated by allogenic flooding surfaces. Sediments within the three parasequences are grouped into three facies associations: wave‐dominated/storm‐dominated deltas, storm‐affected shorefaces to sheltered bay‐margin and fluvio‐tidal brackish‐water channels. The two oldest parasequences comprise dominantly tide‐dominated, wave‐influenced/fluvial‐influenced, shoreface to bay‐margin deposits bisected by penecontemporaneous brackish‐water channels. Brackish‐water channels trend approximately north‐west/south‐east, which is perpendicular to the interpreted shoreline trend; this implies that the basinward and progradational direction was towards the north‐west during deposition of the upper McMurray Formation in Grouse Paleovalley. The youngest parasequence is interpreted as amalgamated wave‐dominated/storm‐dominated delta lobes. The transition from tide‐dominated deposition in the oldest two parasequences to wave‐dominated deposition in the youngest is attributed mainly to drowning of carbonate highlands to the north and north‐west of the study area, and potentially to relative changes in accommodation space and deposition rate. The sedimentological, ichnological and regional distribution of the three facies associations within each parasequence are compared to modern and Holocene analogues that have experienced similar shifts in process dominance. Through this comparison it is possible to consider how shifts in depositional processes are expressed in the rock record. In particular, this study provides one of few ancient examples of preservation of depositional process shifts and showcases how topography impacts the character and architecture of marginal‐marine systems.
Identification of the novel HLA‐C*04:286 allele by next‐generation sequencing in a Chinese cord blood donor
Authors: Zhang Wei , He Yanmin , You Xuan , He Ji , Zhu Faming
Published: March 2019

HLA‐C*04:286 has a single nucleotide substitution at position 44 G>A when compared to C*04:03:01.
Why do lung transplant patients discontinue triazole prophylaxis?
Authors: Pennington Kelly M. , Razonable Raymund R. , Peters Steve , Scott John P. , Wylam Mark , Daly Richard C. , Kennedy Cassie C.
Published: March 2019

Background

Lung transplant recipients are prone to invasive fungal infections prompting many transplant centers to use prolonged triazole antifungal prophylaxis. From a practical standpoint, it is unclear if lung transplant recipients are able to continue prolonged or lifelong prophylaxis without premature discontinuation from side effects, drug interactions, development of fungal disease, or medication cost. We examined the number of patients that are able to reach a prophylactic endpoint and understand the reasons for early termination.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of all lung and heart‐lung transplant patients at Mayo Clinic Rochester from May 1, 2002 to December 31, 2017. Type, duration, and reason for discontinuation of triazole prophylaxis were examined.

Results

During the study period, 193 patients underwent lung or heart‐lung transplantation. Itraconazole, voriconazole, and posaconazole were given to 180, 73, and 60 post‐transplant patients, respectively. Providers switched itraconazole to another prophylactic antifungal medication for reasons other than prophylactic completion in 61.8% (126 out of 204) of exposure episodes; this was similar with voriconazole (68.8%, 53 out of 77, P = 0.41). Posaconazole was actively discontinued significantly less often (18.3%, 11 out of 60, P < 0.05). The most common reasons for discontinuing itraconazole were malabsorption (15.5% of exposure episodes) and concern for breakthrough fungal infection (10.2%). In comparison, the most common reason for voriconazole discontinuation was side effect or intolerance (54.5% of VR exposure episodes vs 9.8% of IT exposure episodes, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Itraconazole and posaconazole appeared to have fewer side effects prompting discontinuation than voriconazole, but itraconazole was discontinued more often because of malabsorption and clinical suspicion of fungal infections.
MRI of osteosarcoma metastases in the brain of an old English Sheepdog
Authors: Toni Cristina , Ricco Cristoforo , Erles Kerstin , Griffin Sally , Carrera Inés
Published: March 2019

A 9‐year‐old, male neutered old English Sheepdog was presented for further investigation of altered mentation, impaired vision, and hemineglect syndrome of 10 days duration. An MRI study of the brain revealed multifocal, contrast‐enhancing intra‐axial lesions that had a stippled hypointense appearance in all sequences but lacked evidence of a strong signal void on T2* images. Histological examination of the brain postmortem confirmed the lesions were metastases arising from an osteosarcoma, which was later identified in the right humerus. To the authors’ knowledge, these MRI characteristics of osteosarcoma metastases in the canine brain have not been previously reported.
Regulation of GLUT4 translocation in an in vitro cell model using postprandial human serum ex vivo
Authors: Cogan Karl E. , Carson Brian P. , Patel Bijal , Amigo‐Benavent Miryam , Jakeman Philip M. , Egan Brendan
Published: March 2019

New Findings

What is the research question?

This study used a new experimental model, in which culture medium is conditioned with human serum ex vivo, to investigate nutrient‐mediated regulation of GLUT4 translocation in skeletal muscle cells in vitro.

What is the main finding and importance?

Human serum stimulated GLUT4 translocation, an effect differentially modulated by whether the culture medium was conditioned with serum from fasted subjects or with serum collected after feeding of intact or hydrolysed whey protein. Conditioning cell culture medium with human serum ex vivo represents a new approach to elucidate the effects of ingesting specific nutrients on skeletal muscle cell metabolism.

Individual amino acids, amino acid mixtures and protein hydrolysates stimulate glucose uptake in many experimental models. To replicate better in vitro the dynamic postprandial response to feeding in vivo, in the present study we investigated the effects of culture media conditioned with fasted and postprandial human serum on GLUT4 translocation in L6‐GLUT4myc myotubes. Serum samples were collected from healthy male participants (n = 8) at baseline (T0), 60 (T60) and 120 min (T120) after the ingestion of 0.33 g (kg body mass)−1 of intact (WPC) or hydrolysed (WPH) whey protein and an isonitrogenous non‐essential amino acid (NEAA) control. L6‐GLUT4myc myotubes were starved of serum and amino acids for 1 h before incubation for 1 h in medium containing 1% postprandial human serum, after which GLUT4 translocation was determined via colorimetric assay. Medium conditioned with fasted human serum at concentrations of 5–20% increased cell surface GLUT4myc abundance. Incubation with serum collected after the ingestion of WPH increased cell surface GLUT4myc at T60 relative to T0 [mean (lower, upper 95% confidence interval)]; [1.13 (1.05, 1.22)], whereas WPC [0.98 (0.90, 1.07)] or NEAA [1.02 (0.94, 1.11)] did not. The differential increases in cell surface GLUT4myc abundance were not explained by differences in serum concentrations of total, essential and branched‐chain amino acids or insulin, glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1) and gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP). Using a new ex vivo, in vitro approach, cell culture medium conditioned with postprandial serum after the ingestion of a whey protein hydrolysate increased GLUT4 translocation in skeletal muscle cells.
Chemosensitivity of Phox2b‐expressing retrotrapezoid neurons is mediated in part by input from 5‐HT neurons
Authors: Wu Yuanming , Proch Katherine L. , Teran Frida A. , Lechtenberg Ryan J. , Kothari Harsh , Richerson George B.
Published: March 2019

Key points

Neurons of the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) and medullary serotonin (5‐HT) neurons are both candidates for central CO2/pH chemoreceptors, but it is not known how interactions between them influence their responses to pH.

We found that RTN neurons in brain slices were stimulated by exogenous 5‐HT and by heteroexchange release of endogenous 5‐HT, and these responses were blocked by antagonists of 5‐HT7 receptors.

The pH response of RTN neurons in brain slices was markedly reduced by the same antagonists of 5‐HT7 receptors.

Similar results were obtained in dissociated, primary cell cultures prepared from the ventral medulla, where it was also found that the pH response of RTN neurons was blocked by preventing 5‐HT synthesis and enhanced by blocking 5‐HT reuptake. Exogenous 5‐HT did not enable latent intrinsic RTN chemosensitivity.

RTN neurons may play more of a role as relays from other central and peripheral chemoreceptors than as CO2 sensors.

Phox2b‐expressing neurons in the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) and serotonin (5‐HT) neurons in the medullary raphe have both been proposed to be central respiratory chemoreceptors. How interactions between these two sets of neurons influence their responses to acidosis is not known. Here we recorded from mouse Phox2b+ RTN neurons in brain slices, and found that their response to moderate hypercapnic acidosis (pH 7.4 to ∼7.2) was markedly reduced by antagonists of 5‐HT7 receptors. RTN neurons were stimulated in response to heteroexchange release of 5‐HT, indicating that RTN neurons are sensitive to endogenous 5‐HT. This electrophysiological behaviour was replicated in primary, dissociated cell cultures containing 5‐HT and RTN neurons grown together. In addition, pharmacological inhibition of 5‐HT synthesis in culture reduced RTN neuron chemosensitivity, and blocking 5‐HT reuptake enhanced chemosensitivity. The effect of 5‐HT on RTN neuron chemosensitivity was not explained by a mechanism whereby activation of 5‐HT7 receptors enables or potentiates intrinsic chemosensitivity of RTN neurons, as exogenous 5‐HT did not enhance the pH response. The ventilatory response to inhaled CO2 of mice was markedly decreased in vivo after systemic treatment with ketanserin, an antagonist of 5‐HT2 and 5‐HT7 receptors. These data indicate that 5‐HT and RTN neurons may interact synergistically in a way that enhances the respiratory chemoreceptor response. The primary role of RTN neurons may be as relays and amplifiers of the pH response from 5‐HT neurons and other chemoreceptors rather than as pH sensors themselves.
A Study on Synthesis of Chemical Crosslinked Polyvinyl Alcohol-Based Alkaline Membrane for the Use in Low-Temperature Alkaline Direct Ethanol Fuel Cell
Authors: Gupta Uday Kumar , Pramanik Hiralal
Published: March 2019

In this paper, an economical and simple procedure was adopted for the fabrication of chemically crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based KOH-doped alkaline membrane for the use in an alkaline direct ethanol fuel cell (ADEFC). The membrane parameters, namely, water uptake, KOH uptake, and ionic conductivity were systematically evaluated. The ionic conductivity of the synthesized membrane was in the order of 9 × 10−3 S/cm. The performance of the synthesized alkaline membrane is evaluated in a single ADEFC. Commercial Pt–Ru (30 wt %: 15 wt %)/C and Pt (40 wt %)/high surface area carbon (CHSA) from Alfa Aesar, Haverhill, MA, were used for anode and cathode, respectively. The performance of the membrane was further evaluated in a single cell using different grades of membranes containing different glutaraldehyde (GA) concentration, anode and cathode electrocatalyst loading, ethanol concentration, and KOH concentration. The maximum open circuit voltage (OCV) of 0.73 V was obtained at a temperature of 35 °C for anode feed containing 2 M ethanol and 1 M KOH for the membrane crosslinked with 2.5 wt % glutaraldehyde doped with 6 M KOH. The maximum power density of 4.15 mW/cm2 at a current density of 20.69 mA/cm2 was obtained for the same condition. The optimum electrocatalyst loading was 1 mg/cm2 of Pt-Ru/C at the anode and 1 mg/cm2 of Pt/CHSA at the cathode. The performance of KOH-doped chemically crosslinked PVA membrane was comparable with the published literature.
Unsteady Finite Amplitude Convection of Water–Copper Nanoliquid in High-Porosity Enclosures
Authors: Siddheshwar P. G. , Lakshmi K. M.
Published: March 2019

Unicellular Rayleigh–Bénard convection of water–copper nanoliquid confined in a high-porosity enclosure is studied analytically. The modified-Buongiorno–Brinkman two-phase model is used for nanoliquid description to include the effects of Brownian motion, thermophoresis, porous medium friction, and thermophysical properties. Free–free and rigid–rigid boundaries are considered for investigation of onset of convection and heat transport. Boundary effects on onset of convection are shown to be classical in nature. Stability boundaries in the R1*–R2 plane are drawn to specify the regions in which various instabilities appear. Specifically, subcritical instabilities' region of appearance is highlighted. Square, shallow, and tall porous enclosures are considered for study, and it is found that the maximum heat transport occurs in the case of a tall enclosure and minimum in the case of a shallow enclosure. The analysis also reveals that the addition of a dilute concentration of nanoparticles in a liquid-saturated porous enclosure advances onset and thereby enhances the heat transport irrespective of the type of boundaries. The presence of porous medium serves the purpose of heat storage in the system because of its low thermal conductivity.
Position Prediction of Marine Seismic Streamer Cables Using Various Kalman Filter Methods
Authors: Grindheim Jan Vidar , Revhaug Inge , Pedersen Egil , Solheim Peder
Published: March 2019

Towed seismic streamer cables are extensively employed for offshore marine petroleum exploration. With the increasing need for accurate streamer steering due to rising number and length of streamers and decreasing intrastreamer separation, as well as new types of survey configurations, accurate modeling, positioning, and path prediction of the streamers are imperative. In the present study, a variety of models and methods have been implemented and utilized for data assimilation of full-scale seismic streamer position data for a marine seismic streamer, followed by path prediction ahead of time. The methods implemented are described, including various models used with the Kalman filter, extended Kalman filter, and ensemble Kalman filter, with comparison and evaluation of prediction results. One particular method, the Path-In-the-Water ensemble Kalman filter (PIW-EnKF), appears to be the most robust method with good prediction results compared to the other methods, as well as having low computational cost. As a case study with full-scale data, the PIW-EnKF is further employed for estimation and prediction of a complete streamer spread.