bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate warming alters subsoil but not topsoil carbon dynamics in alpine grassland
Authors: Jia Juan , Cao Zhenjiao , Liu Chengzhu , Zhang Zhenhua , Lin Li , Wang Yiyun , Haghipour Negar , Wacker Lukas , Bao Hongyan , Dittmar Thorston , Simpson Myrna J. , Yang Huan , Crowther Thomas W. , Eglinton Timothy I. , He Jin‐Sheng , Feng Xiaojuan
Published: September 2019

Subsoil contains more than half of soil organic carbon (SOC) globally and is conventionally assumed to be relatively unresponsive to warming compared to the topsoil. Here, we show substantial changes in carbon allocation and dynamics of the subsoil but not topsoil in the Qinghai‐Tibetan alpine grasslands over 5 years of warming. Specifically, warming enhanced the accumulation of newly synthesized (14C‐enriched) carbon in the subsoil slow‐cycling pool (silt‐clay fraction) but promoted the decomposition of plant‐derived lignin in the fast‐cycling pool (macroaggregates). These changes mirrored an accumulation of lipids and sugars at the expense of lignin in the warmed bulk subsoil, likely associated with shortened soil freezing period and a deepening root system. As warming is accompanied by deepening roots in a wide range of ecosystems, root‐driven accrual of slow‐cycling pool may represent an important and overlooked mechanism for a potential long‐term carbon sink at depth. Moreover, given the contrasting sensitivity of SOC dynamics at varied depths, warming studies focusing only on surface soils may vastly misrepresent shifts in ecosystem carbon storage under climate change.
A(H9N2) influenza viruses associated with chicken mortality in outbreaks in Algeria 2017
Authors: Jeevan Trushar , Darnell Daniel , Gradi El Alia , Benali Yasmine , Kara Redhouane , Guetarni Djamel , Rubrum Adam , Seiler Patrick J , Crumpton Jeri Carol , Webby Richard John , Derrar Fawzi
Published: September 2019

In late 2017, increased mortality was detected in chicken farms in Algeria undergoing A(H9N2) influenza outbreaks. Analysis of viruses isolated from affected farms showed that they were monophyletic, were of the G1 hemagglutinin (HA) lineage, and were antigenically and genetically similar to viruses detected contemporaneously in other countries in Northern Africa and the Middle East. The virus was able to spread via contact transmission between ferrets but did not cause disease in intravenously inoculated chickens.
Control of flowering in rice through synthetic microProteins
Authors: Eguen Tenai , Ariza Jorge Gomez , Brambilla Vittoria , Sun Bin , Bhati Kaushal Kumar , Fornara Fabio , Wenkel Stephan
Published: September 2019

Photoperiod‐dependent flowering in rice is regulated by HEADING DATE 1 (Hd1), which acts as both an activator and repressor of flowering in a daylength‐dependent manner. To investigate the use of microProteins as a tool to modify rice sensitivity to the photoperiod, we designed a synthetic Hd1 microProtein (Hd1miP) capable of interacting with Hd1 protein, and overexpressed it in rice. Transgenic OX‐Hd1miP plants flowered significantly earlier than wild type plants when grown in non‐inductive long day conditions. Our results show the potential of microProteins to serve as powerful tools for modulating crop traits and unraveling protein function.
An Online Educational Program to Increase Student Understanding of Threat Assessment
Authors: Stohlman Shelby L. , Cornell Dewey G.
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

Threat assessment is a widely recommended practice used by schools to investigate and respond to student threats of violence; however, students are often reluctant to disclose threats.

METHODS

We developed an online educational program for students to increase their understanding of threat assessment and the need to report serious threats. We investigated 2 research questions: (1) How are student characteristics of sex, grade level, and ethnicity/race associated with student knowledge of threat assessment and willingness to report threats? (2) Does the program increase knowledge of threat assessment and willingness to report threats? The sample consisted of 2338 students from 6 middle schools and 3 high schools.

RESULTS

Prior to program completion, boys were less willing than girls, and older students were less willing than younger students, to report threats. Post‐program questions revealed that the program significantly increased knowledge and willingness to report threats across student groups, with effect sizes (Cohen's d) ranging from small (.30) to large (1.43).

CONCLUSIONS

This program promotes school safety by teaching students about threat assessment and increasing willingness to report threats. The program is available online for other schools to use.
Morphological fractions, chemical composition and in vitro digestibility of stover of four common vetch varieties grown on the Tibetan plateau
Authors: Huang Yafeng , Matthew Cory , Zhang Zhixin , Nan Zhibiao
Published: September 2019

This study evaluated the varietal variability and interrelationship of the grain and stover yields, and stover quality characteristics of four common vetch varieties (three improved varieties and one local variety) used on the Tibetan Plateau. Stover quality attributes determined included chemical composition, in vitro true digestibility of dry matter (IVTD) and neutral detergent fibre (dNDF). The improved varieties were superior to the local variety in grain yield, harvest index and potential utility index (PUI). The wide ranges in the proportions of leaf (24.3%–34.6%), pod (22.0%–45.6%) and stem (29.5%–44.7%) fractions were observed. Significant varietal differences (p < .001) were observed for the whole‐stover content of crude protein [CP; 78.1–101 g/kg dry matter (DM)], neutral detergent fibre (aNDF; 520–564 g/kg DM), acid detergent fibre (ADF; 520–564 g/kg DM), IVTD (597–658 g/kg DM) and dNDF (305–384 g/kg aNDF). The leaf fraction had the highest levels of CP, IVTD and dNDF, while the highest contents of aNDF and ADF were observed in the stem fraction. Canonical correlation analysis showed that significant (p < .001) correlations between the quality attributes of whole stover and proportions and quality attributes of stover morphological fractions. Pearson correlation between the grain and stover yield was negative and significant (r = −.295; p = .001), while the correlations between the grain/stover yield and stover quality traits were positive or non‐significant. Ranking of the varieties differed when grain yield, PUI and stover quality scores were investigated. Of the varieties tested, Lanjian No.2 has the best potential for use as a ruminant feed, as indicated by PUI and stover quality.
Host hybridization as a potential mechanism of lateral symbiont transfer in deep‐sea vesicomyid clams
Authors: Breusing Corinna , Johnson Shannon B. , Vrijenhoek Robert C. , Young Curtis R.
Published: September 2019

Deep‐sea vesicomyid clams live in mutualistic symbiosis with chemosynthetic bacteria that are inherited through the maternal germ line. On evolutionary timescales, strictly vertical transmission should lead to cospeciation of host mitochondrial and symbiont lineages; nonetheless, examples of incongruent phylogenies have been reported, suggesting that symbionts are occasionally horizontally transmitted between host species. The current paradigm for vesicomyid clams holds that direct transfers cause host shifts or mixtures of symbionts. An alternative hypothesis suggests that hybridization between host species might explain symbiont transfers. Two clam species, Archivesica gigas and Phreagena soyoae, frequently co‐occur at deep‐sea hydrocarbon seeps in the eastern Pacific Ocean. Although the two species typically host gammaproteobacterial symbiont lineages marked by divergent 16S rRNA phylotypes, we identified a number of clams with the A. gigas mitotype that hosted symbionts with the P. soyoae phylotype. Demographic inference models based on genome‐wide SNP data and three Sanger sequenced gene markers provided evidence that A. gigas and P. soyoae hybridized in the past, supporting the hypothesis that hybridization might be a viable mechanism of interspecific symbiont transfer. These findings provide new perspectives on the evolution of vertically transmitted symbionts and their hosts in deep‐sea chemosynthetic environments.
The effectiveness of health professional‐delivered interventions during the first 1000 days to prevent overweight/obesity in children: A systematic review
Authors: Hennessy Marita , Heary Caroline , Laws Rachel , van Rhoon Luke , Toomey Elaine , Wolstenholme Hazel , Byrne Molly
Published: September 2019

Childhood obesity is a global public health challenge. Early prevention, particularly during the first 1000 days, is advocated. Health professionals have a role to play in obesity prevention efforts, in part due to the multiple routine contacts they have with parents. We synthesized the evidence for the effectiveness of obesity prevention interventions delivered by health professionals during this time period, as reviews to date have not examined effectiveness by intervention provider. We also explored what behaviour change theories and/or techniques were associated with more effective intervention outcomes. Eleven electronic databases and three trial registers were searched from inception to 04 April 2019. A total of 180 studies, describing 39 trials involving 46 intervention arms, were included. While the number of interventions has grown considerably, we found some evidence for the effectiveness of health professional‐delivered interventions during the first 1000 days. Only four interventions were effective on a primary (adiposity/weight) and secondary (behavioural) outcome measure. Twenty‐two were effective on a behavioural outcome only. Several methodological limitations were noted, impacting on efforts to establish the active ingredients of interventions. Future work should focus on the conduct and reporting of interventions.
Comparison of the effect of photodynamic therapy and topical corticosteroid on oral lichen planus lesions
Authors: Lavaee Fatemeh , Shadmanpour Maryam
Published: September 2019

Objective

In this study, the effect of photodynamic therapy with topical corticosteroid in oral lichen planus patients was compared.

Material and Methods

In this randomized, double‐blind clinical trial, eight patients with bilateral oral OLP lesions were recruited. Toluidine blue was applied on the lesions of both sides; a 660‐nm diode laser InGaAlP was irradiated for 10 min (power: 25 mW, fluence: 19.23 J/cm2, probe cross section: 0.78 cm2) for three sessions. In the control side of the oral mucosa, only sham laser was used. Follow‐up sessions were held on weeks 3 and 7. In week 3, oral paste triamcinolone acetonide 0.1% was prescribed. Response rates were assessed clinically by VAS, Thongprasom sign scoring, clinical severity index, efficacy indices, and the amount of reduction in the size of the lesions. The Mann–Whitney test was used to evaluate the treatment outcomes.

Results

In spite of the control side, all scores improved significantly between sessions 0 and 4 for the intervention side. The differences between the changes in almost all scores between sessions 0 and 4 in both the intervention and control sides were significantly considerable (p value < .05).

Conclusion

Photodynamic therapy can be used as an alternative therapy alongside standard methods or as a new modality for refractory OLP.
Regulation of physiological aspects in plants by hydrogen sulfide and nitric oxide under challenging environment
Authors: Paul Saikat , Roychoudhury Aryadeep
Published: September 2019

Plants are exposed to a plethora of abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, heavy metal and temperature stresses at different stages of their life cycle, from germination to seedling till the reproductive phase. As protective mechanisms, plants release signaling molecules that initiate a cascade of stress‐signaling events, leading either to programmed cell death or plant acclimation. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO) are considered as new ‘gasotransmitter’ molecules that play key roles in regulating gene expression, posttranslational modification (PTM), as well as cross‐talk with other hormones. Although the exact role of NO in plants remains unclear and is species dependent, various studies have suggested a positive correlation between NO accumulation and environmental stress in plants. These molecules are also involved in a large array of stress responses and act synergistically or antagonistically as signaling components, depending on their respective concentration. This study provides a comprehensive update on the signaling interplay between H2S and NO in the regulation of various physiological processes under multiple abiotic stresses, modes of action and effects of exogenous application of these two molecules under drought, salt, heat and heavy metal stresses. However, the complete picture of the signaling cascades mediated by H2S and NO is still elusive. Recent researches indicate that during certain plant processes, such as stomatal closure, H2S could act upstream of NO signaling or downstream of NO in response to abiotic stresses by improving antioxidant activity in most plant species. In addition, PTMs of antioxidative pathways by these two molecules are also discussed.
Evaluating emergency‐release blood transfusion of newborn infants at the Intermountain Healthcare hospitals
Authors: Bahr Timothy M. , DuPont Tara L. , Christensen Thomas R. , Rees Terry , O'Brien Elizabeth A. , Ilstrup Sarah J. , Christensen Robert D.
Published: September 2019

BACKGROUND

An emergency‐release blood transfusion (ERBT) protocol (uncrossmatched type O‐negative red blood cells, AB plasma, AB platelets) is critical for neonatology practice. However, few reports of emergency transfusions are available. We conducted an ERBT quality improvement project as a basis for progress.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

For each ERBT in the past 8 years, we logged indications, products, locations and timing of the transfusions, and outcomes.

RESULTS

One hundred forty‐nine ERBTs were administered; 42% involved a single blood product, and 58% involved two or more. The incidence was 6.25 ERBT per 10,000 live births, with a higher rate (9.52 ERBT/10,000) in hospitals with a Level 3 neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (p < 0.001). Seventy percent of ERBTs were administered in a NICU and 30% in a delivery room, operating room, or emergency department. Indications were abruption/previa (32.2%), congenital anemia (i.e., fetomaternal hemorrhage; 15.4%), umbilical cord accident (i.e., velamentous insertion; 15.0%), and bleeding/coagulopathy (12.8%). Fifty‐eight percent of those with hemorrhage before birth did not have a hemoglobin value reported on the umbilical cord gas; thus, anemia was not recognized initially. None of the 149 ERBTs were administered using a blood warmer. The mortality rate of recipients was 35%.

CONCLUSION

Based on our findings, we recommend including a hemoglobin value with every cord blood gas after emergency delivery to rapidly identify fetal anemia. We also discuss two potential improvements for future testing: 1) the use of a warming device for massive transfusion of neonates and 2) the use of low‐titer group O cold‐stored whole blood for massive hemorrhage in neonates.
Intraspecific seasonal variation of dormancy and mortality of Phelipanche ramosa seeds
Authors: Pointurier O , Gibot‐Leclerc S , Le Corre V , Reibel C , Strbik F , Colbach N
Published: September 2019

Phelipanche ramosa (Branched broomrape) is an obligate root parasitic plant that is a major pest of oilseed rape in France. Knowledge on seed viability and dormancy under field conditions is crucial to understand how to control P. ramosa, but is as yet unknown. Our study aimed to quantify these processes with a 2‐year seed burial experiment. Two genetically distinct populations of P. ramosa were studied, collected on winter oilseed rape (population O) and hemp (population H). Seed mortality was very low in both populations (4–7% per year). Although obligate parasitic seeds are assumed to germinate only after exposure to germination stimulants from host root exudates, a high proportion of population H seeds germinated spontaneously (up to 90%). Seeds of both populations displayed seasonal dormancy, with timing and magnitude depending on the population. Dormancy was low at the time each native host crop is usually sown. Populations differed in germination dynamics, with seeds of population H germinating faster. The difference in behaviour that we observed between populations is consistent with reported adaptations of pathovars to their preferred hosts. The results indicate that the parasitic plant management requires targeting at the populations concerned. For example, delayed sowing is more promising against population O than against population H.
Knowledge and prevention of tickborne diseases among Hispanic and non‐Hispanic residents of Maryland and Virginia
Authors: Hu Shu Yang , Starr John A. , Gharpure Radhika , Mehta Shaylee P. , Feldman Katherine A. , Nelson Christina A.
Published: September 2019

Tickborne diseases (TBDs) such as Lyme disease (LD), babesiosis, ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever cause substantial morbidity and even mortality in the USA. Data indicate that Hispanic populations may be at greater risk for occupational exposure to ticks and disseminated LD; however, information on knowledge and practices of Hispanic populations regarding TBDs is limited. We surveyed 153 Hispanic and 153 non‐Hispanic residents of Maryland and Virginia to assess awareness of TBDs, prevention practices and risk of tick encounters. Hispanic respondents were less likely than non‐Hispanics to report familiarity with LD symptoms (21% vs. 53%, p < 0.001) and correctly identify ticks as vectors of LD (40% vs. 85%, p < 0.001). Although there was no significant difference in overall proportion of respondents who routinely take one or more preventive measures to prevent tick bites (59% vs. 61%, p = 0.65), Hispanics were more likely to report showering after coming indoors (36% vs. 25%, p = 0.04) but less likely to conduct daily tick checks compared with non‐Hispanics (17% vs. 35%, p < 0.001). History of tick bite or finding a tick crawling on oneself or a household member in the past year did not significantly differ between Hispanics and non‐Hispanics (19% vs. 24%, p = 0.26). Notably, after controlling for Hispanic/non‐Hispanic ethnicity, primary language (English vs. Spanish) was a significant predictor of whether an individual had knowledge of LD symptoms, correctly identified ticks as vectors for LD and performed daily tick checks. These results provide guidance for future development of more targeted and effective TBD prevention education for both Hispanic and non‐Hispanic communities.
Electropolishing of 316L Stainless Steel Using Sulfuric Acid-Free Electrolyte
Authors: Han Wei , Fang Fengzhou
Published: September 2019

The study is to investigate the electropolishing characteristics of 316L stainless steel in a sulfuric acid-free electrolyte of phosphoric acid and glycerol and to explore the possibility of using this eco-friendly electrolyte instead of the widely used sulfuric acid-based electrolyte. The influences of process parameters on polishing effects and the corrosion resistance of electropolished samples are investigated. The experimental results show that the electropolishing temperature and acid concentration are directly related to the mass transport mechanism in the limiting current plateau region. The grain boundaries of workpiece were electrochemically dissolved faster than the grain themselves at the beginning of the electropolishing process because they are more reactive than grains. Moreover, the conventional sulfuric—phosphoric acid electrolyte was also used to electropolish the 316L stainless steel, and the electropolished surfaces were compared with the sulfuric acid-free electrolyte proposed in this study. When the sulfuric acid-free electrolyte was used to electropolish the 316L stainless steel, the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis shows that atomic Cr/Fe ratio of 316L stainless steel was increased from 0.802 to 1.909 after electropolishing process in the sulfuric acid-free electrolyte of phosphoric acid and glycerol. The corrosion resistance of the electropolished 316L stainless steel is studied using electrochemical analysis, and the results are verified experimentally.
An Oxyfuel Combustion-Based Torrefaction Process: Technoeconomic Analysis
Authors: Hasan M. , Haseli Y.
Published: September 2019

A torrefaction process operating on oxyfuel combustion concept is introduced. The working fluid employed in the process is carbon dioxide captured from the combustion products. The thermodynamic modeling of the process is carried out to determine the energy requirement, recycled CO2 flow rate, energy yield, and CO2 production rate at various torrefaction conditions. The total capital investment and production costs of the new system are also estimated. By increasing the torrefaction severity, the CO2 production rate, recycled gas mass, and the process thermal energy requirement increase, whereas the grinding energy and the energy yield decrease. A comparison made between the performance and economic parameters of the new and a conventional torrefaction processes shows that the proposed process is expected to produce torrefied wood pellet of compatible fuel quality and overall efficiency while eliminating CO2 and NOx emissions at the expense of 11.5% and 9% increase in the capital and production costs, respectively. The proposed torrefaction process requires 91.8 M$ capital investment and 113.2 $ to produce 1 ton of torrefied wood pellets with 91% energy yield and 88% overall plant efficiency. Sensitivity analysis shows that the reactor type and raw biomass costs have significant impact on cost structures.
Simulation and Experimental Study of a Diesel Engine Based on an Electro-Hydraulic FVVA System Optimization
Authors: Lu Yong , Li Jian , Xiong Lijun , Li Bo
Published: September 2019

Variable valve timing technologies for internal combustion engines are used to improve power, torque, reduce emissions, and increase fuel efficiency. First, the paper presents a new electrohydraulic full variable valve actuator (FVVA) system which can control the seating velocity of engine valve flexibly. Second, based on the NSGA-II genetic algorithm, the paper outlines a multi-objective optimization strategy and designs the parameters of the FVVA system to make the system easier to implement. Third, the paper builds the combined FVVA engine simulation model. The combined simulation and experimental results are executed to validate the designed FVVA engine. The simulation results show that brake power is improved between 1.31% and 4.48% and the torque is improved by 1.32–4.47%. Brake thermal efficiency and volumetric efficiency also show improvement. Experimental results have good agreement with the simulation results. The research results can provide a basis for engine modification design.
Suitability Assessment and Experimental Characterization of Phase Change Materials for Energy Conservation in Indian Buildings
Authors: Saxena Rajat , Agarwal Naman , Rakshit Dibakar , Kaushik S. C.
Published: September 2019

With increasing energy consumption in buildings, energy efficiency measures are matter of prime concern. A huge portion of energy consumed in buildings is used for regulating the thermal comfort. A solution to this is to incorporate phase change material (PCM) within the building elements which increases their overall thermal capacity. In the present study, the temperature of inner room surface, with and without PCM incorporation, is calculated for composite climate of Delhi. The analysis of PCM sandwiched walls has been performed. The performance analysis of five PCMs, having different melting temperatures, is carried out with nodal temperatures as the output. The results show that a phase change temperature range of 34–38 °C is suitable for peak summer conditions of Delhi. It is also observed that due to the low thermal conductivity of PCMs, they act as both storage medium and insulation, thus reducing temperature fluctuation during summer/winter. Based on the simulation, three PCMs were found suitable and hence were experimentally tested for their characteristic charging and discharging properties and performance, using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). Based on the characterization results, it is concluded that two commercially available PCMs (Eicosane and OM35) are suitable for Delhi. All the other PCMs have also been simulated for different climatic conditions in India and their impact on heat gain has been assessed.
TIR domains of plant immune receptors are NAD
+
-cleaving enzymes that promote cell death
Authors: Wan Li , Essuman Kow , Anderson Ryan G. , Sasaki Yo , Monteiro Freddy , Chung Eui-Hwan , Osborne Nishimura Erin , DiAntonio Aaron , Milbrandt Jeffrey , Dangl Jeffery L. , Nishimura Marc T.
Published: September 2019

NAD depletion as pathogen response

One way that plants respond to pathogen infection is by sacrificing the infected cells. The nucleotide-binding leucine-rich repeat immune receptors responsible for this hypersensitive response carry Toll/interleukin-1 receptor (TIR) domains. In two papers, Horsefield
et al.
and Wan
et al.
report that these TIR domains cleave the metabolic cofactor nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD
+
) as part of their cell-death signaling in response to pathogens. Similar signaling links mammalian TIR-containing proteins to NAD
+
depletion during Wallerian degeneration of neurons.

Science
, this issue p.
793
, p.
799
Phospho-dependent phase separation of FMRP and CAPRIN1 recapitulates regulation of translation and deadenylation
Authors: Kim Tae Hun , Tsang Brian , Vernon Robert M. , Sonenberg Nahum , Kay Lewis E. , Forman-Kay Julie D.
Published: September 2019

Keeping RNA processing contained

Biomolecular condensates that assemble by phase separation are involved in RNA processing. Posttranslational modifications in intrinsically disordered regions of proteins can regulate RNA processing by regulating phase separation. Kim
et al.
used nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to characterize phase separation in a model system comprising the C-terminal disordered regions of the translational regulators FMRP and CAPRIN1 that repress translation by deadenylating mRNA. Interactions between the proteins involve specific sequences in FMRP and CAPRIN1, and the propensity for mRNA to partition into the condensates depends on the phosphorylation patterns in the disordered regions. This mechanism integrates signaling pathways with the regulation of RNA processing.

Science
, this issue p.
825
Examining the Evidence for an Adult Healthy Middle Ear Microbiome
Authors: Jervis-Bardy Jake , Leong Lex E. X. , Papanicolas Lito E. , Ivey Kerry L. , Chawla Sharad , Woods Charmaine M. , Frauenfelder Claire , Ooi Eng H. , Rogers Geraint B.
Published: September 2019

Recent molecular-based studies have suggested that a diverse middle ear microbiome in adults and children can exist in the absence of disease. These studies have been largely unsupported by culture and feature species that commonly contaminate low-biomass sequencing data. While 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing has proven to be a highly informative technique in many clinical contexts, it is susceptible to spurious signal arising from sequencing reagent contaminants where sample biomass is low. Combining culture-based and molecular techniques, we undertook a detailed investigation of the evidence for bacterial colonization of the healthy middle ear. In finding no evidence of viable bacterial cells in middle ear samples, our study further underlines the importance of careful consideration of amplicon sequence data derived from very-low-biomass contexts and the value of analytical approaches that combine culture and molecular techniques.
mSphere of Influence: Modifying an Old Method To Study RNA-Protein Interactions
Authors: Tiengwe Calvin
Published: September 2019

Calvin Tiengwe works on posttranscriptional gene regulation and iron homeostasis in the parasitic protozoan
Trypanosoma brucei
. In this
mSphere of Influence
article, he reflects on how the paper “Comprehensive identification of RNA-protein interactions in any organism using orthogonal organic phase separation (OOPS)” by Queiroz et al. (Nat Biotechnol 37:169–178, 2019,
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41587-018-0001-2
) influenced his research by providing a tool to capture RNA-protein complexes on a global scale using acid guanidinium thiocyanate-phenol-chloroform (AGPC), an old method hitherto applied for RNA, DNA, or protein purification.
Predicting Humphrey 10-2 visual field from 24-2 visual field in eyes with advanced glaucoma
Authors: Sugisaki Kenji , Asaoka Ryo , Inoue Toshihiro , Yoshikawa Keiji , Kanamori Akiyasu , Yamazaki Yoshio , Ishikawa Shinichiro , Nemoto Hodaka , Iwase Aiko , Araie Makoto
Published: September 2019

Aims

To predict Humphrey Field Analyzer Central 10-2 Swedish Interactive Threshold Algorithm-Standard test (HFA 10-2) results (Carl Zeiss Meditec, San Leandro, CA) from HFA 24-2 results of the same eyes with advanced glaucoma.

Methods

Training and testing HFA 24-2 and 10-2 data sets, respectively, consisted of 175 eyes (175 patients) and 44 eyes (44 patients) with open advanced glaucoma (mean deviation of HFA 24-2 ≤−20 dB). Using the training data set, the 68 total deviation (TD) values of the HFA 10-2 test points were predicted from those of the innermost 16 HFA 24-2 test points in the same eye, using image processing or various machine learning methods including bilinear interpolation (IP) as a standard for comparison. The absolute prediction error (PredError) was calculated by applying each method to the testing data set.

Results

The mean (SD) test–retest variability of the HFA 10-2 results in the testing data set was 2.1±1.0 dB, while the IP method yielded a PredError of 5.0±1.7 dB. Among the methods tested, support vector regression (SVR) provided a smallest PredError (4.0±1.5 dB). SVR predicted retinal sensitivity at HFA 10-2 test points in the preserved ‘central isle’ of advanced glaucoma from HFA 24-2 results of the same eye within an error range of about 25%, while error range was approximately twice of the test–retest variability.

Conclusion

Applying SVR to HFA 24-2 results allowed us to predict TD values at HFA 10-2 test points of the same eye with advanced glaucoma with an error range of about 25%.
Fall and risk factors for veterans and non-veterans inpatients over the age of 65 years: 14 years of long-term data analysis
Authors: Perng Huey-Jen , Chiu Yu-Lung , Chung Chi-Hsiang , Kao Senyeong , Chien Wu-Chien
Published: September 2019

Introduction

Falls are one of the most important causes of injuries and accidental deaths among this segment of over the age of 65 years.

The long-term follow-up study of fall-related injuries was conducted in elderly veterans over the age of 65 years, and the risk of falls in veterans and non-veterans was compared.

Methods

This study used the National Health Insurance Research Database for the period from 2000 to 2013 in Taiwan. This longitudinal study tracked falls in veterans over the age of 65 years, designated a control group (non-veterans), using 1:2 pairing on the basis of sex and time receiving medical care, and used Cox regression to analyse and compare the risk of falls among veterans and non-veterans.

Results

This study subjects consisted of 35 454 of the veterans had suffered falls (9.5%), as had 55 037 of the non-veterans (7.4%). After controlling for factors such as comorbidities/complications, the veterans had 1.252 times the risk of falls of the non-veterans. Furthermore, among persons in the 75–84 years old age group, veterans had 1.313 times the risk of falls of non-veterans, and among persons with mental illnesses and diseases of the eyes, veterans had 1.300 and 1.362 times the risk of falls of non-veterans. In addition, each veteran had an average of 4.07 falls during the 2000–2013 period, which was significantly higher than in the case of non-veterans (3.88 falls).

Conclusions

Veterans’ risk of falls and recurrent falls were both higher than those of non-veterans, and age level, comorbidities/complications and level of low urbanisation were all important factors affecting veterans’ falls. The responsible authorities should, therefore, use appropriate protective measures to reduce the risk of falls and medical expenses in high-risk groups.
General practitioners’ engagement in end-of-life care: a semi-structured interview study
Authors: Deckx Laura , Mitchell Geoffrey , Rosenberg John , Kelly Michaela , Carmont Sue-Ann , Yates Patsy
Published: September 2019

Background

Early identification of approaching end-of-life and care planning improve outcomes at the end of life. Nevertheless, the majority of people who die are not identified in time to enable appropriate care planning. We aimed to describe the challenges general practitioners (GPs) found in providing end-of-life care; what prompted GPs to identify and discuss approaching end of life with their patient and how their practice changed.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study of 15 Australian GPs using semi-structured interviews, examining end-of-life care of one of their randomly selected, deceased patients. Interviews were analysed using a general inductive approach.

Results

When a life-limiting prognosis was articulated, GPs integrated end-of-life care into their clinical care directly. Care often included a care plan developed in consultation with the patient. Even when death was not articulated, GPs were aware of approaching end of life and changed their focus to comfort of the patient. GPs generally had an informal care plan in mind, but this developed gradually and without discussing these plans with the patient. How GPs provided end-of-life care depended primarily on patient traits (eg, willingness to discuss physical decline) and the GP’s characteristics (eg, experience, training and consulting style).

Conclusions

GPs were aware of their patients’ approaching end of life and care was adjusted accordingly. However, under certain circumstances this was not explicitly articulated and discussed. It is not clear if implicit but unarticulated end-of-life care is sufficient to meet patients’ needs. Future studies should investigate this.
Statin adherence and persistence on secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease in Taiwan
Authors: Shau Wen-Yi , Lai Chao-Lun , Huang Shih-Ting , Chen Shu-Ting , Li Jim Z , Fung Selwyn , Tse Vicki C , Lai Mei-Shu
Published: September 2019

Background

Evidence and treatment guidelines support the use of statins in patients with established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) for secondary prevention of subsequent cardiovascular (CV) event. However, treatment adherence and persistence are still a concern.

Methods

We constructed a retrospective population-based cohort of patients, who initiated statin treatment within 90 days after discharge from hospital for ASCVD using the claims database of Taiwan National Health Insurance. Proportion of days covered (PDC) was used to measure statin adherence, and PDC ≥80% was defined as good adherence. The study outcomes were subsequent rehospitalisation or in-hospital death due to composite ASCVD, myocardial infarction or ischaemic stroke. Their associations with statin prescription adherence or persistence were analysed using time-dependent Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The study cohort included 185 252 postdischarge statin initiators. There were 50 015 subsequent ASCVD rehospitalisations including 2858 in-hospital death during 7 years of study period. Good adherence was significantly associated with lower risk of ASCVD rehospitalisation (adjusted HR (aHR) 0.90; 95% CI 0.87 to 0.92) and significantly lower risk of in-hospital death (aHR 0.59; 95% CI 0.53 to 0.65). Compared with constant use of statin, patients in the three less persistent states (recent stop, non-persistence and intermittent use) were associated with higher risk of subsequent ASCVD rehospitalisation, aHRs were 1.16, 1.13 and 1.26, respectively (all p<0.05). The increased risks were consistent with specific outcome of acute myocardial infarction and ischaemic stroke. Also, patients in the recent stop period had significantly higher risk for fatal CV event.

Conclusions

Good adherence and persistence to statin therapy are significantly associated with lower risk of secondary ASCVD rehospitalisation and in-hospital death.
β2-Adrenergic genotypes and risk of severe exacerbations in COPD: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Ingebrigtsen Truls Sylvan , Vestbo Jørgen , Rode Line , Marott Jacob Louis , Lange Peter , Nordestgaard Børge G
Published: September 2019

Background

Individual susceptibility to exacerbations in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is likely influenced by genetic factors; however, most such variance is unexplained. We hypothesised that β2-adrenergic receptor genotypes, Gly16Arg (rs1042713, c.46G>A) and Gln27Glu (rs1042714, c.79C>G) influence risk of severe exacerbations in COPD.

Methods

Among 96 762 individuals in the Copenhagen General Population Study, we identified 5262 with COPD (forced expiratory volume in one second divided by forced vital capacity, FEV1/FVC, below 0.7, FEV1less than 80% of predicted value, age above 40 years and no asthma) who had genotyping performed. Severe exacerbations were defined as acute admissions due to COPD during 5 years of follow-up (mean 3.4 years). 923 individuals with COPD diagnosed similarly in the Copenhagen City Heart Study (CCHS) were used for replication analyses.

Results

We recorded 461 severe exacerbations in 5262 subjects. The HRs for severe exacerbations were 1.62 (95% CI 1.30 to 2.03, p=0.00002) for 16Gly/Arg heterozygotes and 1.41 (1.04 to 1.91, p=0.03) for 16Arg homozygotes, compared with 16Gly homozygotes. HRs were 1.35 (1.03 to 1.76, p=0.03) for 27Gln/Glu heterozygotes and 1.49 (1.12 to 1.98, p=0.006) for 27Gln homozygotes, compared with 27Glu homozygotes. Similar trends were observed in the CCHS. Among 27Gln homozygotes only, HRs were 5.20 (1.81 to 14.9, p=0.002) for 16Gly/Arg heterozygotes and 4.03 (1.40 to 11.6, p=0.01) for 16Arg homozygotes, compared with 16Gly homozygotes.

Conclusion

Common β2-adrenergic receptor genotypes influence risk of severe exacerbations in COPD, potentially mainly by genetic influence of the 16Arg allele in rs1042713.
Comparison of early warning scores in patients with COPD exacerbation: DECAF and NEWS score
Authors: Echevarria Carlos , Steer John , Bourke Stephen C
Published: September 2019

Background

The National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS2) includes two oxygen saturation scales; the second adjusts target saturations to 88%–92% for those with hypercapnic respiratory failure. Using this second scale in all patients with COPD exacerbation (‘NEWS2All COPD’) would simplify practice, but the impact on alert frequency and prognostic performance is unknown. Admission NEWS2 score has not been compared with DECAF (dyspnoea, eosinopenia, consolidation, acidaemia, atrial fibrillation) for inpatient mortality prediction.

Methods

NEWS, NEWS2 and NEWS2All COPDand DECAF were calculated at admission in 2645 patients with COPD exacerbation attending consecutively to one of six UK hospitals, all of whom met spirometry criteria for COPD. Alert frequency and appropriateness were assessed for all NEWS iterations. Prognostic performance was compared using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve. Missing data were imputed using multiple imputation.

Findings

Compared with NEWS, NEWS2 reclassified 3.1% patients as not requiring review by a senior clinician (score≥5). NEWS2All COPDreduced alerts by 12.6%, or 16.1% if scoring for injudicious use of oxygen was exempted. Mortality was low in reclassified patients, with no patients dying the same day as being identified as low risk. NEWS2All COPDwas a better prognostic score than NEWS (AUROC 0.72 vs 0.65, p<0.001), with similar performance to NEWS2 (AUROC 0.72 vs 0.70, p=0.090). DECAF was superior to all scores (validation cohort AUROC 0.82) and offered a more clinically useful range of risk stratification (DECAF=1.2%–25.5%; NEWS2=3.5%–15.4%).

Conclusion

NEWS2All COPDsafely reduces the alert frequency compared with NEWS2. DECAF offers superior prognostic performance to guide clinical decision-making on admission, but does not replace repeated measures of NEWS2 during hospitalisation to detect the deteriorating patient.
PREDICTION OF THE TREND OF BONE FRACTURE HEALING BASED ON THE RESULTS OF THE EARLY STAGES SIMULATIONS: A FINITE ELEMENT STUDY
Authors: NOURISA JALIL , ROUHI GHOLAMREZA
Published: September 2019

To date, several studies have implied the importance of early stage mechanical stability in the bone fracture healing process. This study aimed at finding a correlation between the predicted different tissue phenotypes in the early stages of healing and the ultimate healing outcome. For this purpose, the process of fracture healing was numerically simulated employing an axisymmetric bi-phasic finite element (FE) model for three initial gap sizes of 1, 3 and 6[Formula: see text]mm and four initial interfragmentary strains (IFS) of 7%, 11%, 15% and 19%. The model was validated with experimental and other numerical studies from the literature. Results of this study showed that the amount of cartilage and fibrous tissue observed in the early stage after fracture can be used to qualitatively assess the outcome of complete bone healing process. Greater amount of cartilage in early stage of healing process yielded faster callus maturation, and delayed maturation of callus was predicted in the case of high fibrous tissue production. Results of this study can be used to provide an estimation of the performance of different fixation systems by considering the amounts of cartilage and fibrous tissues observed in the early stage of healing.
Discriminating aggregate sources with
in situ
mineral chemistry: an Irish example
Authors: Dornan T. , Goodhue R. , Riegler T.
Published: September 2019

The need to characterize and distinguish geographically adjacent aggregate quarry sources prompted the SEM-EDS analysis of pyrite (FeS
2
) within fill material taken from eight different quarry sources. This experiment was undertaken to investigate the possibility of geochemically separating these quarry sources based on the major element concentration of their pyrite. The results show that median values for Fe and S vary by up to 7.6 and 8.55 wt% respectively. By implementing statistical methods, including
k
-means clustering and principal component analysis, it is possible to geochemically discriminate three of the eight sources.
Individualising Graphical Layouts with Predictive Visual Search Models
Authors: Todi Kashyap , Jokinen Jussi , Luyten Kris , Oulasvirta Antti
Published: September 2019

In domains where users are exposed to large variations in visuo-spatial features among designs, they often spend excess time searching for common elements (features) on an interface. This article contributes individualised predictive models of visual search, and a computational approach to restructure graphical layouts for an individual user such that features on a new, unvisited interface can be found quicker. It explores four technical principles inspired by the human visual system (HVS) to predict expected positions of features and create individualised layout templates: (I) the interface with highest frequency is chosen as the template; (II) the interface with highest predicted recall probability (serial position curve) is chosen as the template; (III) the most probable locations for features across interfaces are chosen (visual statistical learning) to generate the template; (IV) based on a generative cognitive model, the most likely visual search locations for features are chosen (visual sampling modelling) to generate the template. Given a history of previously seen interfaces, we restructure the spatial layout of a new (unseen) interface with the goal of making its features more easily findable. The four HVS principles are implemented in Familiariser, a web browser that automatically restructures webpage layouts based on the visual history of the user. Evaluation of Familiariser (using visual statistical learning) with users provides first evidence that our approach reduces visual search time by over 10%, and number of eye-gaze fixations by over 20%, during web browsing tasks.
A Survey on Scheduling Strategies for Workflows in Cloud Environment and Emerging Trends
Authors: Adhikari Mainak , Amgoth Tarachand , Srirama Satish Narayana
Published: September 2019

Workflow scheduling is one of the challenging issues in emerging trends of the distributed environment that focuses on satisfying various quality of service (QoS) constraints. The cloud receives the applications as a form of a workflow, consisting of a set of interdependent tasks, to solve the large-scale scientific or enterprise problems. Workflow scheduling in the cloud environment has been studied extensively over the years, and this article provides a comprehensive review of the approaches. This article analyses the characteristics of various workflow scheduling techniques and classifies them based on their objectives and execution model. In addition, the recent technological developments and paradigms such as serverless computing and Fog computing are creating new requirements/opportunities for workflow scheduling in a distributed environment. The serverless infrastructures are mainly designed for processing background tasks such as Internet-of-Things (IoT), web applications, or event-driven applications. To address the ever-increasing demands of resources and to overcome the drawbacks of the cloud-centric IoT, the Fog computing paradigm has been developed. This article also discusses workflow scheduling in the context of these emerging trends of cloud computing.
Recoloring Algorithms for Colorblind People
Authors: Ribeiro Madalena , Gomes Abel J. P.
Published: September 2019

Color is a powerful communication component, not only as part of the message meaning but also as a way of discriminating contents therein. However, 5% of the world’s population suffers from color vision deficiency (CVD), commonly known as colorblindness. This handicap adulterates the way the color is perceived, compromising the reading and understanding of the message contents. This issue becomes even more pertinent due to the increasing availability of multimedia contents in computational environments (e.g., web browsers). Aware of this problem, a significant number of CVD research works came up in the literature in the past two decades to improve color perception in text documents, still images, video, and so forth. This survey mainly addresses recoloring algorithms toward still images for colorblind people, including the current trends in the field of color adaptation.
Comprehensive Study of Continuous Orthogonal Moments—A Systematic Review
Authors: Kaur Parminder , Pannu Husanbir Singh , Malhi Avleen Kaur
Published: September 2019

Orthogonal moments provide an efficient mathematical framework for computer vision, image analysis, and pattern recognition. They are derived from the polynomials that are relatively perpendicular to each other. Orthogonal moments are more efficient than non-orthogonal moments for image representation with minimum attribute redundancy, robustness to noise, invariance to rotation, translation, and scaling. Orthogonal moments can be both continuous and discrete. Prominent continuous moments are Zernike, Pseudo-Zernike, Legendre, and Gaussian-Hermite. This article provides a comprehensive and comparative review for continuous orthogonal moments along with their applications.