bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Palliative and end‐of‐life care in pediatric solid organ transplantation
Authors: Fowler Amy , Freiberger Dawn , Moonan Marilyn
Published: November 2014

End‐of‐life care is a component of palliative care and takes a holistic, individualized approach to patients, focusing on the assessment of quality of life and its maintenance until the end of life, and beyond, for the patient's family. Transplant teams do not always make timely referrals to palliative care teams due to various clinician and perceived family barriers, an important one being the simultaneous, active care plan each patient would have alongside an end‐of‐life plan. Application of findings and further research specific to the pediatric solid organ population would be of significant benefit to guide transplant teams as to the most effective time to introduce end‐of‐life care, who to involve in ongoing discussions, and important ethical and cultural considerations to include in care planning. Attention must also be paid to clinician training and support in this challenging area of health care.
Heterogeneity in soil water and light environments and dispersal limitation: what facilitates tree species coexistence in a temperate forest?
Authors: Masaki T. , Hata S. , Ide Y.
Published: November 2014

In the present study, we analysed the habitat association of tree species in an old‐growth temperate forest across all life stages to test theories on the coexistence of tree species in forest communities. An inventory for trees was implemented at a 6‐ha plot in Ogawa Forest Reserve for adults, juveniles, saplings and seedlings. Volumetric soil water content (SMC) and light levels were measured in 10‐m grids. Relationships between the actual number of stems and environmental variables were determined for 35 major tree species, and the spatial correlations within and among species were analysed. The light level had no statistically significant effect on distribution of saplings and seedlings of any species. In contrast, most species had specific optimal values along the SMC gradient. The optimal values were almost identical in earlier life stages, but were more variable in later life stages among species. However, no effective niche partitioning among the species was apparent even at the adult stage. Furthermore, results of spatial analyses suggest that dispersal limitation was not sufficient to mitigate competition between species. This might result from well‐scattered seed distribution via wind and bird dispersal, as well as conspecific density‐dependent mortality of seeds and seedlings. Thus, both niche partitioning and dispersal limitation appeared less important for facilitating coexistence of species within this forest than expected in tropical forests. The tree species assembly in this temperate forest might be controlled through a neutral process at the spatial scale tested in this study.
Time‐varying correlations between delta EEG power and heart rate variability in midlife women: The SWAN Sleep Study
Authors: Rothenberger Scott D. , Krafty Robert T. , Taylor Briana J. , Cribbet Matthew R. , Thayer Julian F. , Buysse Daniel J. , Kravitz Howard M. , Buysse Evan D. , Hall Martica H.
Published: November 2014

No studies have evaluated the dynamic, time‐varying relationship between delta electroencephalographic (EEG) sleep and high frequency heart rate variability (HF‐HRV) in women. Delta EEG and HF‐HRV were measured during sleep in 197 midlife women (Mage = 52.1, SD = 2.2). Delta EEG–HF‐HRV correlations in nonrapid eye movement (NREM) sleep were modeled as whole‐night averages and as continuous functions of time. The whole‐night delta EEG–HF‐HRV correlation was positive. The strongest correlations were observed during the first NREM sleep period preceding and following peak delta power. Time‐varying correlations between delta EEG–HF‐HRV were stronger in participants with sleep‐disordered breathing and self‐reported insomnia compared to healthy controls. The dynamic interplay between sleep and autonomic activity can be modeled across the night to examine within‐ and between‐participant differences including individuals with and without sleep disorders.
The Role of MicroRNAs in Autoimmune Diseases with Skin Involvement
Authors: Deng X. , Su Y. , Wu H. , Wu R. , Zhang P. , Dai Y. , Chan T.‐M. , Zhao M. , Lu Q.
Published: November 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNA molecules that negatively modulate gene expression by binding to the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), which leads to the degradation or translational repression of their target mRNAs. Previous research on miRNAs has revealed a new paradigm of gene regulations and pathways involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders and malignant diseases. The roles of miRNAs in cellular processes, including cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis and immune functions, are not clearly understood. MiRNAs are easily detected in a variety of sources, including tissues, serum and other body fluids, and this make them a good biological sample for pathogenic studies and disease biomarker development. This review encompasses the current understanding of the roles of miRNAs in autoimmunity and the cellular and molecular mechanisms of miRNAs in various autoimmune diseases (AIMDs). Specifically, we focus on the target genes of miRNAs and the biological processes associated with autoimmune diseases with skin involvement, including systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, systemic sclerosis, Behcet's disease and dermatomyositis. In addition, the diagnostic and therapeutic relevance of miRNAs that are involved in autoimmunity are elucidated to provide information for clinical implications.
Coping responses in the midst of terror: The July 22 terror attack at Utøya Island in Norway
Authors: Jensen Tine K. , Thoresen Siri , Dyb Grete
Published: November 2014

This study examined the peri‐trauma coping responses of 325 survivors, mostly youth, after the July 22, 2011 terror attack on Utøya Island in Norway. The aim was to understand peri‐trauma coping responses and their relation to subsequent post‐traumatic stress (PTS) reactions. Respondents were interviewed face‐to‐face 4–5 months after the shooting, and most were interviewed at their homes. Peri‐trauma coping was assessed using ten selected items from the “How I Cope Under Pressure Scale” (HICUPS), covering the dimensions of problem solving, positive cognitive restructuring, avoidance, support seeking, seeking understanding, and religious coping. PTS reactions were assessed with the UCLA PTSD Reaction Index. The participants reported using a wide variety of coping strategies. Problem solving, positive cognitive restructuring, and seeking understanding strategies were reported most often. Men reported using more problem‐solving strategies, whereas women reported more emotion‐focused strategies. There were no significant associations between age and the use of coping strategies. Problem solving and positive cognitive restructuring were significantly associated with fewer PTS reactions. The results are discussed in light of previous research and may help to inform early intervention efforts for survivors of traumatic events.
Association of Toll‐like receptor 7 and 8 gene polymorphisms with Graves' disease in Chinese Cantonese population
Authors: Xiao WenJuan , Liu ZeLin , Lin JiangHai , Li JingBo , Wu KeJing , Ma Yun , Xiong ChunJiang , Gong YingXue , Liu ZeHuan
Published: November 2014

Graves' disease (GD) is a common polygenic multifactorial autoimmune disease. Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) play critical roles in the activation of innate and adaptive immune responses. This study investigated the association of TLR7 and TLR8 gene polymorphisms with susceptibility of GD. Five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), namely, rs179019, rs179010 and rs3853839 in TLR7 and rs3764880 and rs5744088 in TLR8, were evaluated in 332 GD patients and 351 controls using High‐Resolution Melting analysis. After adjusting for age, SNP rs179010 was found to decrease the risk of GD in females (ORT vs C = 0.64, P = 0.004). In the additive model, the risk of GD decreased significantly as the number of T alleles increased in females [odds ratio (OR) = 0.67 (0.50–0.90), P = 0.007]. The multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed the independent contribution of rs179010 to the protective effect against GD. This study indicates that rs179010 in TLR7 may be associated with the decreased susceptibility to GD in Chinese Cantonese.
The diversity of major histocompatibility complex class II DRB1 gene in sheep breeds from Xinjiang, China
Authors: Polat M. , Aida Y. , Takeshima S.‐N. , Aniwashi J. , Halik M.
Published: November 2014

Exon 2 of the ovine leukocyte antigen OLA‐DRB1 locus was examined in sheep from the Xinjiang Karakul Ram and Bashibai populations, and three generations of hybrids were derived from a cross between Bashibai and Altai Argali wild sheep. This identified 12 novel alleles and 30 previously reported alleles. A neighbor‐joining tree of the amino acid sequences of these 42 alleles revealed allelic clusters shared across the study populations. There were significant differences in allelic frequency between Karakul Ram and Bashibai sheep. DRB1*K18cC was the most frequent allele in Kararul Ram with a frequency of 21.2%, while DRB1*2F10c8 (13.2%) and DRB1*0803 (13.2%) were the most frequent alleles found in Bashibai sheep; the alleles DRB1*2F16c2, DRB1*1601, and DRB1*0803 occurred most frequently in F1, F2, and F3 populations, with frequencies of 17.6%, 14.3%, and 20%, respectively. Although many alleles were shared by Bashibai and hybrid sheep, some alleles differed between them, especially in the F1 generation of the Bashibai × Altai Argali cross. The hybrid‐specific alleles indicated the introgression of Altai Argali alleles into hybrid flocks. A population tree based on the OLA‐DRB1 allelic frequency in each population indicated that the Bashibai sheep and three hybrid populations were similar, with Karakul Ram being genetically distinct.
Determinants of common mental disorder, alcohol use disorder and cognitive morbidity among people coming for HIV testing in Goa, India
Authors: Mayston Rosie , Patel Vikram , Abas Melanie , Korgaonkar Priya , Paranjape Ramesh , Rodrigues Savio , Prince Martin
Published: November 2014

Objective

To investigate associations between background characteristics (psychosocial adversity, risk behaviours/perception of risk and HIV‐related knowledge, perceptions and beliefs) and psychological and cognitive morbidity among people coming for testing for HIV/AIDS in Goa, India.

Methods

Analysis of cross‐sectional baseline data (plus HIV status) from a prospective cohort study. Participants were recruited at the time of coming for HIV testing.

Results

Consistent with associations found among general population samples, among our sample of 1934 participants, we found that indicators of psychosocial adversity were associated with CMD (common mental disorder – major depression, generalised anxiety and panic disorder) among people coming for testing for HIV. Similarly, perpetration of intimate partner violence was associated with AUD (alcohol use disorder). Two STI symptoms were associated with CMD, and sex with a non‐primary partner was associated with AUD. Suboptimal knowledge about HIV transmission and prevention was associated with low cognitive test scores. In contrast with other studies, we found no evidence of any association between stigma and CMD. There was no evidence of modification of associations by HIV status.

Conclusions

Among people coming for testing for HIV/AIDS in Goa, India, we found that CMD occurred in the context of social and economic stressors (violence, symptoms of STI, poor education and food insecurity) and AUD was associated with violence and risky sexual behaviour. Further research is necessary to understand the role of gender, stigma and social norms in determining the relationship between sexual and mental health. Understanding associations between these background characteristics and psychological morbidity may help inform the design of appropriate early interventions for depression among people newly diagnosed HIV/AIDS.
Influence of Intake on Fan Blade Flutter
Authors: Vahdati Mehdi , Smith Nigel , Zhao Fanzhou
Published: November 2014

The main aim of this paper is to study the influence of upstream reflections on flutter of a fan blade. To achieve this goal, flutter analysis of a complete fan assembly with an intake duct and the downstream outlet guide vanes (OGVs) (whole low pressure (LP) domain) is undertaken using a validated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model. The computed results show good correlation with measured data. Due to space constraints, only upstream (intake) reflections are analyzed in this paper. It will be shown that the correct prediction of flutter boundary for a fan blade requires modeling of the intake and different intakes would produce different flutter boundaries for the same fan blade. However, the “blade only” and intake damping are independent and the total damping can be obtained from the sum of the two contributions. In order to gain further insight into the physics of the problem, the pressure waves created by blade vibration are split into an upstream and a downstream traveling wave in the intake. The splitting of the pressure wave allows one to establish a relationship between the phase and amplitude of the reflected waves and flutter stability of the blade. By using this approach, a simple reflection model can be used to model the intake effects.
Self-Propelled Sliding Bubble Motion Induced by Surface Microstructure in Pool Boiling of a Dielectric Fluid Under Microgravity
Authors: Thiagarajan Naveenan , Bhavnani Sushil H. , Narayanan Vinod
Published: November 2014

This paper reports bubble dynamics observed during pool boiling over microstructures with an asymmetric saw-tooth cross section, under reduced gravity. The periodic saw-toothed ratchets etched on a silicon surface include fabricated vapor bubble nucleation sites only on the shallow slope. Reduced gravity pool boiling experiments were conducted aboard a Boeing 727 aircraft carrying out parabolic maneuvers. The fluid used was FC-72, a highly wetting dielectric fluid used as a coolant for electronics. Under microgravity, it was observed that the bubble diameters were six times larger than in terrestrial gravity. Also, self-propelled sliding bubble motion along the surface of the saw teeth was observed in reduced gravity. The velocity of the sliding bubbles across the saw teeth, following lateral departure from the cavities, was measured to be as high as 27.4 mm/s. A model for the sliding bubble motion is proposed by attributing it to the force due to pressure differences that arise in the liquid film between the vapor bubble and the saw-toothed heated surface. The pressure difference is due to difference in the radius of curvature of the interface between the crest and trough of the saw teeth. The surface modification technique, which resulted in the sliding bubble motion, has the potential to alleviate dry-out caused due to stagnant vapor bubbles over heat sources under microgravity when the buoyancy forces are negligible compared to the surface tension forces.
Extending the Reach of a Rod Injected Into a Cylinder Through Distributed Vibration
Authors: Miller Jay T. , Mulcahy Connor G. , Pabon Jahir , Wicks Nathan , Reis Pedro M.
Published: November 2014

We present results of an experimental investigation of a new mechanism for extending the reach of an elastic rod injected into a horizontal cylindrical constraint, prior to the onset of helical buckling. This is accomplished through distributed, vertical vibration of the constraint during injection. A model system is developed that allows us to quantify the critical loads and resulting length scales of the buckling configurations, while providing direct access to the buckling process through digital imaging. In the static case (no vibration), we vary the radial size of the cylindrical constraint and find that our experimental results are in good agreement with existing predictions on the critical injection force and length of injected rod for helical buckling. When vertical vibration is introduced, reach can be extended by up to a factor of four, when compared to the static case. The injection speed (below a critical value that we uncover), as well as the amplitude and frequency of vibration, are studied systematically and found to have an effect on the extent of improvement attained.
A Meshless Boundary Element Method for Simulating Slamming in Context of Generalized Wagner
Authors: Helmers Jens B. , Skeie Geir
Published: November 2014

A boundary element method (BEM) designed for solving the symmetric generalized Wagner formulation is presented. The flow field is parameterized with analytical functions and can describe the kinematics at any free surface or body location using a small set of parameters obtained from a collocation scheme. The method is fast and robust for all deadrise angles, even for flat plate impacts where classical BEMs usually fail. The method is easy to implement and is easy to apply. Given a smooth body contour the only additional input is the requested accuracy. There is no mesh involved. When solving the temporal problem, we exploit the analytical distribution of free surface velocities and apply an integral equation formalism consistent with the Wagner formulation. The output of the spatial and temporal scheme is a set of functions and parameters suitable for fast computation of the complete kinematics for any impact trajectory given the position of the keel and the body velocity. The method is developed to be combined with seakeeping programs for statistical impact and whipping assessment.
The Effects of Mechanical Stimulation on Controlling and Maintaining Marrow Stromal Cell Differentiation Into Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Yao Raphael , Wong Joyce Y.
Published: November 2014

For patients suffering from severe coronary heart disease (CHD), the development of a cell-based tissue engineered blood vessel (TEBV) has great potential to overcome current issues with synthetic graft materials. While marrow stromal cells (MSCs) are a promising source of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) for TEBV construction, they have been shown to differentiate into both the VSMC and osteoblast lineages under different rates of dynamic strain. Determining the permanence of strain-induced MSC differentiation into VSMCs is therefore a significant step toward successful TEBV development. In this study, initial experiments where a cyclic 10% strain was imposed on MSCs for 24 h at 0.1 Hz, 0.5 Hz, and 1 Hz determined that cells stretched at 1 Hz expressed significantly higher levels of VSMC-specific genetic and protein markers compared to samples stretched at 0.1 Hz. Conversely, samples stretched at 0.1 Hz expressed higher levels of osteoblast-specific genetic and protein markers compared to the samples stretched at 1 Hz. More importantly, sequential application of 24–48 h periods of 0.1 Hz and 1 Hz strain-induced genetic and protein marker expression levels similar to the VSMC profile seen with 1 Hz alone. This effect was observed regardless of whether the cells were first strained at 0.1 Hz followed by strain at 1 Hz, or vice versa. Our results suggest that the strain-induced VSMC phenotype is a more terminally differentiated state than the strain-induced osteoblast phenotype, and as result, VSMC obtained from strain-induced differentiation would have potential uses in TEBV construction.
Estimation of Stress Corrosion Cracking Growth Behavior Under Weld Residual Stress in the Bottom of a Reactor Pressure Vessel by Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Iwamatsu Fuminori , Miyazaki Katsumasa , Mochizuki Masahito
Published: November 2014

A method for evaluating crack growth by repeatedly modeling and analyzing the transitional crack shapes is developed for a general computing environment in which a commercial finite element preprocessor and analysis code are used. The proposed method calculates stress intensity factors (SIFs) by finite element analysis (FEA) by directly distributing estimated weld residual stress obtained from noncracked components on the crack surface on the basis of the superposition principle. In present case, to specify a nonuniform residual stress distribution, a subroutine for a commercial FEA code (ABAQUS) was developed. Arbitrary crack shapes during the crack propagation were expressed by applying the submodeling technique which allowed arbitrary crack shapes to be meshed. The sequence of steps in the proposed method was designed to make it possible to consider complicated stress distributions, such as weld residual stress, and to express arbitrary crack shapes. The applicability of the proposed FEA based method was verified by comparing the result of a stress corrosion cracking (SCC) growth analysis results of a flat plate obtained with the proposed method and with the ASME code procedure. As an application example, the SCC growth behavior of a crack at the bottom of a nuclear reactor pressure vessel (RPV) involving a dissimilar metal weld and a unique geometry was evaluated by the proposed method. The evaluation results were compared with results obtained using a conventional method, i.e., the influence function method (IFM). Since both sets of results were in reasonable agreement, it was concluded that IFM can be applied to this case. Previously, it was difficult to assess the applicability of conventional methods, such as the code procedure and IFM, to a complicated problem because of the existence of complicated residual stress fields, dissimilar metals, and the complicated crack shapes involved. The proposed method using FEA allows the applicability of conventional methods to complicated crack growth evaluations to be assessed.
A Novel Multimaterial Additive Manufacturing Technique for Fabricating Laminated Polymer Nanocomposite Structures
Authors: Spackman Clayson C. , Picha Kyle C. , Gross Garrett J. , Nowak James F. , Smith Philip J. , Zheng Jian , Samuel Johnson , Mishra Sandipan
Published: November 2014

The objective of this research is to develop a novel, multimaterial additive manufacturing technique for fabricating laminated polymer nanocomposite structures that have characteristic length-scales in the tens of millimeters range. The three-dimensional (3D) printing technology presented in this paper combines the conventional inkjet-based printing of ultraviolet (UV) curable polymers with the deposition of either aligned or random nanoscale fiber mats, in between each printed layer. The fibers are first generated using an electrospinning process that produces the roll of fibers. These fibers are then transferred to the part being manufactured using a stamping operation. The process has been proven to manufacture multimaterial laminated nanocomposites having different 3D geometries. The dimensional accuracy of the parts is seen to be a function of the interaction between the different UV-curable polymer inks. In general, the addition of the nanofibers in the form of laminates is seen to improve the mechanical properties of the material, with the Young’s modulus and the ultimate breaking stress showing the most improvement. The pinning and deflection of microcracks by the nanoscale fiber mats has been identified to be the underlying mechanism responsible for these improved mechanical properties. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) reveals that these improvements in the mechanical properties are obtained without drastically altering the thermal degradation pattern of the base polymer.
Side readout of long scintillation crystal elements with digital SiPM for TOF‐DOI PET
Authors: Yeom Jung Yeol , Vinke Ruud , Levin Craig S.
Published: November 2014

Purpose:

Side readout of scintillation light from crystal elements in positron emission tomography (PET) is an alternative to conventional end‐readout configurations, with the benefit of being able to provide accurate depth‐of‐interaction (DOI) information and good energy resolution while achieving excellent timing resolution required for time‐of‐flight PET. This paper explores different readout geometries of scintillation crystal elements with the goal of achieving a detector that simultaneously achieves excellent timing resolution, energy resolution, spatial resolution, and photon sensitivity.

Methods:

The performance of discrete LYSO scintillation elements of different lengths read out from the end/side with digital silicon photomultipliers (dSiPMs) has been assessed.

Results:

Compared to 3 × 3 × 20 mm3 LYSO crystals read out from their ends with a coincidence resolving time (CRT) of 162 ± 6 ps FWHM and saturated energy spectra, a side‐readout configuration achieved an excellent CRT of 144 ± 2 ps FWHM after correcting for timing skews within the dSiPM and an energy resolution of 11.8% ± 0.2% without requiring energy saturation correction. Using a maximum likelihood estimation method on individual dSiPM pixel response that corresponds to different 511 keV photon interaction positions, the DOI resolution of this 3 × 3 × 20 mm3 crystal side‐readout configuration was computed to be 0.8 mm FWHM with negligible artifacts at the crystal ends. On the other hand, with smaller 3 × 3 × 5 mm3 LYSO crystals that can also be tiled/stacked to provide DOI information, a timing resolution of 134 ± 6 ps was attained but produced highly saturated energy spectra.

Conclusions:

The energy, timing, and DOI resolution information extracted from the side of long scintillation crystal elements coupled to dSiPM have been acquired for the first time. The authors conclude in this proof of concept study that such detector configuration has the potential to enable outstanding detector performance in terms of timing, energy, and DOI resolution.
Global diversity and geography of soil fungi
Authors: Tedersoo Leho , Bahram Mohammad , Põlme Sergei , Kõljalg Urmas , Yorou Nourou S. , Wijesundera Ravi , Ruiz Luis Villarreal , Vasco-Palacios Aída M. , Thu Pham Quang , Suija Ave , Smith Matthew E. , Sharp Cathy , Saluveer Erki , Saitta Alessandro , Rosas Miguel , Riit Taavi , Ratkowsky David , Pritsch Karin , Põldmaa Kadri , Piepenbring Meike , Phosri Cherdchai , Peterson Marko , Parts Kaarin , Pärtel Kadri , Otsing Eveli , Nouhra Eduardo , Njouonkou André L. , Nilsson R. Henrik , Morgado Luis N. , Mayor Jordan , May Tom W. , Majuakim Luiza , Lodge D. Jean , Lee Su See , Larsson Karl-Henrik , Kohout Petr , Hosaka Kentaro , Hiiesalu Indrek , Henkel Terry W. , Harend Helery , Guo Liang-dong , Greslebin Alina , Grelet Gwen , Geml Jozsef , Gates Genevieve , Dunstan William , Dunk Chris , Drenkhan Rein , Dearnaley John , De Kesel André , Dang Tan , Chen Xin , Buegger Franz , Brearley Francis Q. , Bonito Gregory , Anslan Sten , Abell Sandra , Abarenkov Kessy
Published: November 2014

Fungi play major roles in ecosystem processes, but the determinants of fungal diversity and biogeographic patterns remain poorly understood. Using DNA metabarcoding data from hundreds of globally distributed soil samples, we demonstrate that fungal richness is decoupled from plant diversity. The plant-to-fungus richness ratio declines exponentially toward the poles. Climatic factors, followed by edaphic and spatial variables, constitute the best predictors of fungal richness and community composition at the global scale. Fungi show similar latitudinal diversity gradients to other organisms, with several notable exceptions. These findings advance our understanding of global fungal diversity patterns and permit integration of fungi into a general macroecological framework.
Nidogens are therapeutic targets for the prevention of tetanus
Authors: Bercsenyi Kinga , Schmieg Nathalie , Bryson J. Barney , Wallace Martin , Caccin Paola , Golding Matthew , Zanotti Giuseppe , Greensmith Linda , Nischt Roswitha , Schiavo Giampietro
Published: November 2014

Tetanus neurotoxin (TeNT) is among the most poisonous substances on Earth and a major cause of neonatal death in nonvaccinated areas. TeNT targets the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) with high affinity, yet the nature of the TeNT receptor complex remains unknown. Here, we show that the presence of nidogens (also known as entactins) at the NMJ is the main determinant for TeNT binding. Inhibition of the TeNT-nidogen interaction by using small nidogen-derived peptides or genetic ablation of nidogens prevented the binding of TeNT to neurons and protected mice from TeNT-induced spastic paralysis. Our findings demonstrate the direct involvement of an extracellular matrix protein as a receptor for TeNT at the NMJ, paving the way for the development of therapeutics for the prevention of tetanus by targeting this protein-protein interaction.
Increasing anthropogenic nitrogen in the North Pacific Ocean
Authors: Kim Il-Nam , Lee Kitack , Gruber Nicolas , Karl David M. , Bullister John L. , Yang Simon , Kim Tae-Wook
Published: November 2014

The recent increase in anthropogenic emissions of reactive nitrogen from northeastern Asia and the subsequent enhanced deposition over the extensive regions of the North Pacific Ocean (NPO) have led to a detectable increase in the nitrate (N) concentration of the upper ocean. The rate of increase of excess N relative to phosphate (P) was found to be highest (∼0.24 micromoles per kilogram per year) in the vicinity of the Asian source continent, with rates decreasing eastward across the NPO, consistent with the magnitude and distribution of atmospheric nitrogen deposition. This anthropogenically driven increase in the N content of the upper NPO may enhance primary production in this N-limited region, potentially leading to a long-term change of the NPO from being N-limited to P-limited.
Antigen affinity, costimulation, and cytokine inputs sum linearly to amplify T cell expansion
Authors: Marchingo Julia M. , Kan Andrey , Sutherland Robyn M. , Duffy Ken R. , Wellard Cameron J. , Belz Gabrielle T. , Lew Andrew M. , Dowling Mark R. , Heinzel Susanne , Hodgkin Philip D.
Published: November 2014

T cell responses are initiated by antigen and promoted by a range of costimulatory signals. Understanding how T cells integrate alternative signal combinations and make decisions affecting immune response strength or tolerance poses a considerable theoretical challenge. Here, we report that T cell receptor (TCR) and costimulatory signals imprint an early, cell-intrinsic, division fate, whereby cells effectively count through generations before returning automatically to a quiescent state. This autonomous program can be extended by cytokines. Signals from the TCR, costimulatory receptors, and cytokines add together using a linear division calculus, allowing the strength of a T cell response to be predicted from the sum of the underlying signal components. These data resolve a long-standing costimulation paradox and provide a quantitative paradigm for therapeutically manipulating immune response strength.
A new phase in the Ebola war
Authors: Kupferschmidt Kai
Published: November 2014

As new cases drop in Liberia, experts call for a fresh strategy that would target flare-ups.
Japan to assault asteroid
Authors: Normile Dennis
Published: November 2014

Hayabusa 2 will blast open carbon-rich celestial body.
Social media for large studies of behavior
Authors: Ruths Derek , Pfeffer Jürgen
Published: November 2014

Large-scale studies of human behavior in social media need to be held to higher methodological standards
Antibody validation roundtable specificity + sensitivity + reproducibility = validation
Authors: McNutt Marcia , Rimm David , Kerfoot Christopher , Thompson Craig M.
Published: November 2014

Concerns about incorrectly or insufficiently characterized antibodies employed in biomedical research have been raised by recent reports of nonreproducible research studies. Reproducibility issues have resulted in loss of time, resources, and scientific reputation, with publication retractions occurring in certain cases. This webinar will highlight the challenges surrounding how antibody specificity affects reproducibility in biomedical research and introduce viewers to the key requirements for proper antibody validation. Panelists, including a journal editor, an academic researcher, a pharmaceutical company investigator, and an antibody supplier will share their views and unique perspectives. This forum is intended to serve as one step along an ongoing path toward building consensus on best practices for antibody validation and possible guidelines for reporting of antibody-based data in research manuscripts. By registering in advance for this webinar you can pose your specific questions for consideration by the panelists.
The E.U.'s recipe to create jobs: Innovate
Authors: Sinha Gunjan
Published: November 2014

Horizon 2020, the European Union's new funding mechanism, is the concrete translation of Europe 2020, a 10-year strategy proposed by the European Commission to advance Europe's economy in a "smart, inclusive, and sustainable" way. It reflects the widespread sentiment that Europe has fallen behind the rest of the world in innovation. By supporting areas in which Europe already shows strong competence, especially at the near market stage where crucial funding tends to falls short, the European Union aims to emerge as a world leader in the areas targeted and grow its economy at the same time. Along the way, it is creating new opportunities for scientists.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Micafungin and Its Metabolites M1 and M5 in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Hope William W. , Kaibara Atsunori , Roy Michael , Arrieta Antonio , Azie Nkechi , Kovanda Laura L. , Benjamin Daniel K.
Published: November 2014

The aim of this analysis was to identify therapeutic micafungin regimens for children that produce the same micafungin exposures known to be effective for the prevention and treatment of
Candida
infections in adults. Pediatric pharmacokinetic data from 229 patients between the ages of 4 months and <17 years were obtained from four phase I and two phase III clinical trials. Population pharmacokinetic models were used to simulate the proportion of children who had a steady-state area under the concentration-time curve at 24 hours (AUC
24
) of micafungin within the 10th to 90th percentile range observed in a population of adults receiving a dose of micafungin with established efficacy for invasive candidiasis (100 mg/day), i.e., 75 to 139 μg · h/ml. Simulated pediatric dosages of 0.5 to 5 mg/kg of body weight/day were explored. A two-compartment model was used that incorporated body weight as a predefined covariate for allometric scaling of the pharmacokinetic parameters. During construction of the model, aspartate aminotransferase and total bilirubin were also identified as covariates that had a significant effect on micafungin clearance. A dose of 2 mg/kg resulted in the highest proportion of children within the predefined micafungin AUC
24
target range for invasive candidiasis. Cutoffs of 40 or 50 kg for weight-based dosing resulted in heavier children being appropriately dosed. Thus, dose regimens of 1, 2, and 3 mg/kg/day micafungin are appropriate for the prevention of invasive candidiasis, the treatment of invasive candidiasis, and the treatment of esophageal candidiasis, respectively, in children aged 4 months to <17 years.
Engineered Cationic Antimicrobial Peptides To Overcome Multidrug Resistance by ESKAPE Pathogens
Authors: Deslouches Berthony , Steckbeck Jonathan D. , Craigo Jodi K. , Doi Yohei , Burns Jane L. , Montelaro Ronald C.
Published: November 2014

Multidrug resistance constitutes a threat to the medical achievements of the last 50 years. In this study, we demonstrated the abilities of two
de novo
engineered cationic antibiotic peptides (eCAPs), WLBU2 and WR12, to overcome resistance from 142 clinical isolates representing the most common multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens and to display a lower propensity to select for resistant bacteria
in vitro
compared to that with colistin and LL37. The results warrant an exploration of eCAPs for use in clinical settings.
Orgasmic dural tear: an unusual delayed presentation of postural headache following lumbar discectomy
Authors: Dannawi Zaher , Lennon Shirley Evelyn , Zaidan Ammar , Khazim Rabi
Published: November 2014

A 28-year-old woman presented with a severe unremitting frontal postural headache associated with photophobia. This started immediately after standing following reaching orgasm during sexual intercourse. Fifty-two days previously, the patient underwent bilateral L4-L5 decompression laminotomies and a left L4-L5 discectomy for excision of a large herniated intervertebral disc. Subarachnoid haemorrhage was excluded with a CT scan. Brain and lumbar MRI showed enhancement of the pachymeninges and a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak into the deep soft tissue planes. Conservative treatment for 5 days failed to alleviate the patient's symptoms. An exploration and repair of a dural tear was performed. Subsequently, the headache subsided but the patient developed a low-grade infection requiring 12 weeks of antibiotics. Six months later the patient was asymptomatic. This is the first case report of a delayed presentation of a dural tear occurring during sexual intercourse following lumbar surgery.
Quality improvement strategies to optimise transition of patients with heart failure to independent living: protocol for a scoping review
Authors: Kastner Monika , Lillie Erin , Ashoor Huda , Perrier Laure , Cardoso Roberta , Straus Sharon , Lee Douglas S
Published: November 2014

Introduction

Heart failure (HF) is a leading reason for hospitalisation and readmissions to hospital, particularly among individuals older than 65 years of age. The prognosis of patients with HF is grim, with high rates of mortality risk and hospital readmissions. The transition period early after hospital discharge represents a window of opportunity to positively influence patient outcomes using quality improvement (QI) strategies. However, little is known about which QI interventions exist for early events of HF after discharge, so the main objective of our study is to conduct a scoping review of the literature to determine which QI strategies are effective for reducing hospital readmissions and mortality for patients with HF who transition from the hospital back into independent living. We will also investigate which elements contribute to effective QI strategies.

Methods and analysis

We will search the literature in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the Cochrane library for randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews evaluating QI interventions aimed at improving outcomes for patients with HF transitioning from the hospital back into the community. Two reviewers will independently apply our eligibility criteria at level 1 (abstract/title) and level 2 (full-text) screening; disagreements will be resolved through consensus. We will extract data in duplicate on study characteristics, population, setting, QI intervention and outcomes. We will synthesise results descriptively and explore QI elements to determine which aspect contributes to its impact. We will also consider synthesis of our data according to several conceptual frameworks such as Wagner's Chronic Care Model.

Discussion and dissemination

The findings of this scoping review will be used to determine which elements should comprise a QI intervention aimed at facilitating the transition of newly admitted patients with HF back into the community. We will disseminate our findings through publications, presentations as well as through a stakeholder meeting to generate key messages most relevant to each.
Structural brain lesions and restless legs syndrome: a cross-sectional population-based study
Authors: Rist Pamela M , Tzourio Christophe , Elbaz Alexis , Soumaré Aïcha , Dufouil Carole , Mazoyer Bernard , Kurth Tobias
Published: November 2014

Objective

To evaluate the association between white matter lesion (WML) volume, silent infarcts and restless legs syndrome (RLS) in a population-based study of elderly individuals.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Population-based Three-City study.

Participants

1035 individuals from the Dijon, France, centre of the Three-City study who had available information on volume of WMLs from MRIs and who answered questions about the prevalence of RLS.

Primary outcome measure

Prevalence of RLS.

Results

WML volume was measured using an automated tissue segmentation method. Logistic regression was used to evaluate adjusted associations between tertiles of WML volume and RLS and between silent infarcts and RLS. 218 individuals (21.1%) were determined to have RLS. Compared with those in the first tertile of WML volume, individuals in the second tertile (OR=1.09; 95% CI 0.75 to 1.60) or third tertile (OR=1.17; 95% CI 0.79 to 1.74) did not have an increased prevalence of RLS. We also did not observe associations between the volume of deep or periventricular WML and RLS; nor did we observe an association between silent brain infarcts and RLS (OR=0.74; 95% CI 0.40 to 1.39). These findings were not modified by age or gender.

Conclusions

Higher volume of WML and the presence of silent infarcts were not associated with an increased prevalence of RLS in this population-based cohort of elderly individuals.
Randomised trial of the fascia iliaca block versus the ‘3-in-1’ block for femoral neck fractures in the emergency department
Authors: Reavley Paul , Montgomery Alan A , Smith Jason E , Binks Simon , Edwards Judith , Elder Georgina , Benger Jonathan
Published: November 2014

Introduction

Femoral neck fractures are a common and painful injury. Femoral nerve blocks, and a variant of this technique termed the ‘3-in-1’ block, are often used in this patient group, but their effect is variable. The fascia iliaca compartment block (FIB) has been proposed as an alternative, but the relative effectiveness of the two techniques in the early stages of care is unknown. We therefore compared the FIB versus the 3-in-1 block in a randomised trial conducted in two UK emergency departments.

Methods

Parallel, two-group randomised equivalence trial. Consenting patients >18 years with a femoral neck fracture were randomly allocated to receive either a FIB or a 3-in-1 block. The primary outcome was pain measured on a 100 mm visual analogue scale at 60 min. The between-group difference was adjusted for centre, age, sex, fracture type, pre-block analgesia and pre-block pain score.

Results

178 patients were randomised and 162 included in the primary analysis. The mean 100 mm visual analogue pain scale score at 60 min was 38 mm in the FIB arm and 35 mm in the 3-in-1 arm. The adjusted difference between the arms was 3 mm, with a 95% CI (−4.7 to 10.8) that excluded a clinically important difference between the two interventions.

Conclusions

FIB is equivalent to the 3-in-1 block for immediate pain relief in adult neck of femur fractures.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN16152419.
Canals of Hering loss relates to the progression of the histological stages of primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Kakuda Yuko , Harada Kenichi , Nakanuma Yasuni
Published: November 2014

Aims

The canals of Hering (CoH), which are the most peripherally located bile drainage pathway, are considered a niche of hepatic progenitor cells. Recently, CoH loss has been described as an early feature of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). We investigated the correlation between CoH loss and the histopathological variables of PBC.

Methods

Liver biopsy specimens from 62 PBC patients (M:F=8:54, age=58±12 years) were evaluated prior to ursodeoxycholic acid treatment. Liver biopsies of patients with normal liver (n=11), chronic viral hepatitis (n=36) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (n=13) were used as controls. The number of CoH per definite area of hepatic parenchyma (c to p ratio) was calculated in individual cases. We compared the c to p ratios of PBC patients with that of controls and analysed the correlations with histological variables and clinical features.

Results

The c to p ratios in PBC patients with mild and extensive fibrosis were lower than those in controls with each degree of fibrosis. The c to p ratios were negatively correlated with stage, fibrosis, bile duct loss, orcein-positive granule deposition and hepatitis activities in PBC (p<0.01) and with alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin levels at liver biopsies (p<0.05).

Conclusions

The number of CoH was low in early stages and further decreased with stage progression in PBC. CoH loss, reflecting a reduced supply of progenitor cells to the biliary tree, may be involved in the histological progression of PBC.
Getting sick and falling behind: health and the risk of mortgage default and home foreclosure
Authors: Houle Jason N , Keene Danya E
Published: November 2014

Background

An emerging literature shows that mortgage strain can lead to poor health outcomes, but less work has focused on whether and how health shocks influence mortgage distress. We examine the link between changes in health status and default/foreclosure risk among older middle-aged adults.

Method

We used National Longitudinal Study of Youth 1979 data and multivariate logistic regression models to examine the relationship between changes in health limitations and chronic conditions across survey waves and risk of mortgage default and foreclosure.

Results

We found that changes in health limitations and chronic conditions increased the risk of default and foreclosure between 2007 and 2010. These associations were partially mediated by changes in family income and loss of health insurance.

Conclusions

From a policy perspective, the strong link between the onset of illness and foreclosure suggests a need to re-examine the safety-nets that are available to individuals who become ill or disabled.
Simplifying the calculation of equivalent diameter in sedimentation tests
Authors: Chapuis Robert P. , Duhaime François , Weber Simon
Published: November 2014

In sedimentation tests, the equivalent diameter of particles, D, is calculated using an equation derived from Stokes’ law and a factor K interpolated from a table listing values of suspension temperature and the specific gravity of solids. This paper explains how to start with Stokes’ law and obtain the equation used in standards. Then it provides two equations for K, both of which are accurate for the usual temperature range for hydrometer tests, and for any specific gravity. The two equations can be used in spreadsheets to automatically calculate D, an easier process than obtaining or interpolating K from a table.
Postrelease mortality in istiophorid billfish
Authors: Musyl Michael K. , Moyes Christopher D. , Brill Richard W. , Mourato Bruno L. , West Andrew , McNaughton Lianne M. , Chiang Wei-Chuan , Sun Chi-Lu
Published: November 2014

Meta-analysis (inverse-variance, random-effects model) involving 46 studies was used to estimate the effect size of postrelease mortality (Fr) in six istiophorid billfish species (black marlin (Istiompax indica), blue marlin (Makaira nigricans), longbill spearfish (Tetrapturus pfluegeri), sailfish (Istiophorus platypterus), striped marlin (Kajikia audax), and white marlin (Kajikia albida)) following release from recreational, longline, and harpoon fishing gears. The studies involved 400 reporting pop-up satellite archival tags and 64 reporting acoustic (ultrasonic) tags. Despite fish being captured, tagged, and released under widely disparate conditions, locations, and gear types, Frwas homogeneous among species. Variability in Frwas principally due to random sampling error within studies with no evident patterns. Fifteen studies (33% of tags) indicated no mortality, and the overall summary effect size for Frwas 13.5% (95% CI: 10.3%–17.6%). Since the random-effects model decomposed to a fixed-effect model when the between-studies variance T2= 0.00, results were confirmed using exact nonparametric inferential tests and sensitivity analyses. Our results support earlier findings in the Atlantic and substantiate the majority of istiophorid billfish survive when released from recreational and longline fishing gear, clearly implying catch-and-release as a viable management option that permits fishing activity while protecting parental biomass and the fishery.