bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human biventricular electromechanical simulations on the progression of electrocardiographic and mechanical abnormalities in post-myocardial infarction
Authors: Wang Zhinuo J , Santiago Alfonso , Zhou Xin , Wang Lei , Margara Francesca , Levrero-Florencio Francesc , Das Arka , Kelly Chris , Dall'Armellina Erica , Vazquez Mariano , Rodriguez Blanca
Published: December 2020

Aims

Develop, calibrate and evaluate with clinical data a human electromechanical modelling and simulation framework for multiscale, mechanistic investigations in healthy and post-myocardial infarction (MI) conditions, from ionic to clinical biomarkers.

Methods and results

Human healthy and post-MI electromechanical simulations were conducted with a novel biventricular model, calibrated and evaluated with experimental and clinical data, including torso/biventricular anatomy from clinical magnetic resonance, state-of-the-art human-based membrane kinetics, excitation–contraction and active tension models, and orthotropic electromechanical coupling. Electromechanical remodelling of the infarct/ischaemic region and the border zone were simulated for ischaemic, acute, and chronic states in a fully transmural anterior infarct and a subendocardial anterior infarct. The results were compared with clinical electrocardiogram and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) data at similar states. Healthy model simulations show LVEF 63%, with 11% peak systolic wall thickening, QRS duration and QT interval of 100 ms and 330 ms. LVEF in ischaemic, acute, and chronic post-MI states were 56%, 51%, and 52%, respectively. In linking the three post-MI simulations, it was apparent that elevated resting potential due to hyperkalaemia in the infarcted region led to ST-segment elevation, while a large repolarization gradient corresponded to T-wave inversion. Mechanically, the chronic stiffening of the infarct region had the benefit of improving systolic function by reducing infarct bulging at the expense of reducing diastolic function by inhibiting inflation.

Conclusion

Our human-based multiscale modelling and simulation framework enables mechanistic investigations into patho-physiological electrophysiological and mechanical behaviour and can serve as testbed to guide the optimization of pharmacological and electrical therapies.
The Iron-Responsive Genome of the Chiton Acanthopleura granulata
Authors: Varney Rebecca M , Speiser Daniel I , McDougall Carmel , Degnan Bernard M , Kocot Kevin M
Published: December 2020

Molluscs biomineralize structures that vary in composition, form, and function, prompting questions about the genetic mechanisms responsible for their production and the evolution of these mechanisms. Chitons (Mollusca, Polyplacophora) are a promising system for studies of biomineralization because they build a range of calcified structures including shell plates and spine- or scale-like sclerites. Chitons also harden the calcified teeth of their rasp-like radula with a coat of iron (as magnetite). Here we present the genome of the West Indian fuzzy chiton Acanthopleura granulata, the first from any aculiferan mollusc. The A. granulata genome contains homologs of many genes associated with biomineralization in conchiferan molluscs. We expected chitons to lack genes previously identified from pathways conchiferans use to make biominerals like calcite and nacre because chitons do not use these materials in their shells. Surprisingly, the A. granulata genome has homologs of many of these genes, suggesting that the ancestral mollusc may have had a more diverse biomineralization toolkit than expected. The A. granulata genome has features that may be specialized for iron biomineralization, including a higher proportion of genes regulated directly by iron than other molluscs. A. granulata also produces two isoforms of soma-like ferritin: one is regulated by iron and similar in sequence to the soma-like ferritins of other molluscs, and the other is constitutively translated and is not found in other molluscs. The A. granulata genome is a resource for future studies of molluscan evolution and biomineralization.
Within-Person Associations Among Self-Perceptions of Memory, Depressive Symptoms, and Activity Participation in Older Adults
Authors: Hill Nikki L , Mogle Jacqueline , Bhargava Sakshi , Bratlee-Whitaker Emily , Wion Rachel K , Sweeder Logan , Sliwinski Martin , Barnes Lisa L
Published: December 2020

Background and Objectives

Self-perceptions of memory problems may impact older adults’ mood as well as their activity participation, thereby negatively affecting health and well-being. We examined within-person associations among self-reported memory, depressive symptoms, as well as physical, social, and cognitive activity participation in older adults without cognitive impairment.

Research Design and Methods

Samples were drawn from the Einstein Aging Study (EAS), National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS), Rush Memory and Aging Project (MAP), and Minority Aging Research Study (MARS), with over 8,000 participants (65+ years) included across data sets. In a series of coordinated analyses, multilevel structural equation modeling was used to examine within-person relationships over periods of up to 20 years.

Results

Across EAS, NHATS, and MAP/MARS samples, we found that older adults’ self-perceptions of memory did not directly covary with activity participation over time. However, we did find an indirect association in NHATS such that within-person changes in depressive symptoms were associated with changes in self-reported memory, and these contributed to lower physical as well as social activity participation.

Discussion and Implications

Older adults’ activity participation is important for health, but maximizing engagement requires understanding potentially impeding factors. We found some evidence that as self-perceptions of memory change over time, associated depressive symptoms may contribute to lower activity participation. Inconsistent findings across data sets, however, suggest future research is needed to understand individual characteristics that may influence these relationships.
Experimental studies on the mechanism of seismoelectric logging while drilling with multipole source
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhu Zhenya , Guan Wei , Gao Yongxin , Wu Xiaorong
Published: December 2020

When a seismic wave propagates in a fluid-saturated porous medium, a relative movement forms between the solid and the fluid and induces an electric current due to the electronic double layer. As a result, two kinds of seismoelectric coupling responses are generated in this procedure: the localized electric/magnetic field and interfacial electromagnetic wavefield. One important potential application of these two seismoelectric conversions is used for measuring formation P and S waves in well logging. Considering that the strong collar wave seriously affects the velocity measurements of formation P and S waves in current acoustic logging while drilling (LWD), the seismoelectric LWD method, which combines seismoelectric conversion and acoustic LWD technique, was suggested to be a novel method in oil and gas exploration. The collar wave cannot induce any seismoelectric signal on the metal collar since there is no double layer formed on a metal surface. In this paper, acoustic and seismoelectric LWD measurements are conducted in the laboratory. We build a scaled multipole acoustic LWD tool to conduct acoustic measurements in a water tank and a sandstone borehole model. We also build a multipole seismoelectric LWD tool and record the seismoelectric signals induced with the same acoustic source. Then, we compare the recorded acoustic and seismoelectric signals by using the experimental data. The result indicates that the apparent velocities of seismoelectric signals are equal to the formation P- and S-wave velocities and the collar waves do not induce any visible electric signal in the full waveforms. We further analyse the mechanism of seismoelectric LWD by a quantitative comparison of the amplitudes between the inner collar wave and outer collar wave. The results show that the amplitude of outer collar wave decreases significantly when it radiates out of the tool, so that the seismoelectric signals induced by collar waves are too weak to be distinguished in the full waveforms of seismoelectric LWD measurements. Thus, the formation P- and S-wave velocities are detected accurately from the recorded seismoelectric LWD data. These results verify the feasibility of the seismoelectric LWD method for measuring acoustic velocities of the borehole formation.
Retrospective short-term forecasting experiment in Italy based on the occurrence of strong (fore) shocks
Authors: Gasperini P , Biondini E , Lolli B , Petruccelli A , Vannucci G
Published: December 2020

In a recent work, we computed the relative frequencies with which strong shocks (4.0 ≤ Mw < 5.0), widely felt by the population were followed in the same area by potentially destructive main shocks (Mw ≥ 5.0) in Italy. Assuming the stationarity of the seismic release properties, such frequencies can be tentatively used to estimate the probabilities of potentially destructive shocks after the occurrence of future strong shocks. This allows us to set up an alarm-based forecasting hypothesis related to strong foreshocks occurrence. Such hypothesis is tested retrospectively on the data of a homogenized seismic catalogue of the Italian area against a purely random hypothesis that simply forecasts the target main shocks proportionally to the space–time fraction occupied by the alarms. We compute the latter fraction in two ways (i) as the ratio between the average time covered by the alarms in each area and the total duration of the forecasting experiment (60 yr) and (ii) as the same ratio but weighted by the past frequency of occurrence of earthquakes in each area. In both cases the overall retrospective performance of our forecasting algorithm is definitely better than the random case. Considering an alarm duration of three months, the algorithm retrospectively forecasts more than 70 per cent of all shocks with Mw ≥ 5.5 occurred in Italy from 1960 to 2019 with a total space–time fraction covered by the alarms of the order of 2 per cent. Considering the same space–time coverage, the algorithm is also able to retrospectively forecasts more than 40 per cent of the first main shocks with Mw ≥ 5.5 of the seismic sequences occurred in the same time interval. Given the good reliability of our results, the forecasting algorithm is set and ready to be tested also prospectively, in parallel to other ongoing procedures operating on the Italian territory.
Valve sparing neoaortic root replacement following a Norwood type reconstruction of the aorta
Authors: Sames-Dolzer Eva , Kreuzer Michaela , Ratschiller Thomas , Mair Roland , Gierlinger Gregor , Mair Rudolf
Published: December 2020

A neoaortic aneurysm after a Norwood type reconstruction of the aorta can develop due to systemic pressure on the former pulmonary artery wall. A complex valve sparing procedure can preserve native valves and avoid a valve replacement with requirement for anticoagulation. This type of operation was carried out in 3 patients, 2 of them after a Fontan palliation, 1 after a Norwood–Rastelli repair. The reconstruction was done using Dacron prostheses for the replacement of the dilated wall, similar to a Yacoub modification in 2 cases and to a David’s modification in 1 patient. The postoperative course was uneventful and postoperative valve function was good in all cases.
Immune Responses to Neisseria gonorrhoeae: Challenges and Opportunities With Respect to Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Authors: Russell Michael W
Published: December 2020

Pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility frequently develop after female genital tract infection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae, but determining their etiology from among various possibilities presents difficulties. Exploitation of serology to identify the causative agent is complicated by numerous factors, and no immunological test currently exists to determine unequivocally whether an individual currently is, or has been, infected with N. gonorrhoeae. The extensive antigenic variability of N. gonorrhoeae and its expression of antigens shared with other Neisseria species commonly carried in humans render problematic an assay that is specific for all gonococcal strains. However, novel conserved gonococcal antigens identified for potential vaccines may find additional application in diagnostic assays. N. gonorrhoeae also interferes with the adaptive immune response, and antibody responses to uncomplicated infection are usually weak. Elucidating the mechanisms whereby N. gonorrhoeae manipulates the human immune system may lead to improved understanding of the pathogenesis of pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.
Exposure Route Affects the Toxicity Class of Thiamethoxam for the Predatory Bug, Orius albidipennis (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) by Changing Its Fitness
Authors: Mahmoudi-Dehpahni Baharak , Alizadeh Marzieh , Pourian Hamid-Reza
Published: December 2020

In many cases, pesticides’ side effects on natural enemies have closely related to their exposure route. We assessed long-term lethal and sublethal effects of thiamethoxam (TMX) on the predatory bug, Orius albidipennis (Reuter), fed on Aphis gossypii Glover (Hemiptera: Aphididae), through three exposure routes. First-instar nymphs were treated with the maximum field recommended concentration (MFRC), ½ MFRC, and ¼ MFRC of TMX for 24 h. Based on the results, the soil-application treatment (bottom-up effect: plant-aphid-predator) led to the lowest survival reduction. In contrast, leaf-dip (residual contact) and aphid-dip (oral exposure route) treatments decreased the survival severely. While the soil-application treatment had no significant effect on adult longevity and egg production, all tested concentrations of TMX in the leaf-dip and aphid-dip treatments negatively affected both traits. The egg hatchability was not affected by the insecticide in all exposure routes. Among all treatments, ¼ MFRC of TMX in the residual contact and oral treatments shortened the egg incubation period compared to control, but others failed to affect it. Finally, based on the criteria provided by the International Organization for Biological and Integrated Control (IOBC) regarding toxicity classification, systemic (soil) application of TMX was harmless for this predator. However, it was moderately harmful and harmful (depending on concentration) to the predator through the residual contact and oral exposures, even at ¼ MFRC. Given our results, the soil-application of TMX is compatible with O. albidipennis, and it can improve conservation approaches of the predator in the integrated management of A. gossypii.
Local structure analysis of amorphous materials by angstrom-beam electron diffraction
Authors: Hirata Akihiko
Published: December 2020

The structure analysis of amorphous materials still leaves much room for improvement. Owing to the lack of translational or rotational symmetry of amorphous materials, it is important to develop a different approach from that used for crystals for the structure analysis of amorphous materials. Here, the angstrom-beam electron diffraction method was used to obtain the local structure information of amorphous materials at a sub-nanometre scale. In addition, we discussed the relationship between the global and local diffraction intensities of amorphous structures, and verified the effectiveness of the proposed method through basic diffraction simulations. Finally, some applications of the proposed method to structural and functional amorphous materials are summarized.
Caregiver Religious Coping and Posttraumatic Responses in Pediatric Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant
Authors: Chardon Marie L , Brammer Caitlin , Madan-Swain Avi , Kazak Anne E , Pai Ahna L H
Published: December 2020

Objective

Caregivers often experience their child’s hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HCT) treatment as traumatic. Although many caregivers develop posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) in response to supporting their child through HCT, other caregivers demonstrate posttraumatic growth (PTG). Religious coping may contribute to these different adjustment trajectories; however, more information is needed to clarify the unique associations of positive versus negative religious coping on caregiver PTSS and PTG in the context of pediatric HCT. This study aimed to examine the relationships between negative and positive religious coping on caregivers PTSS and PTG while controlling for caregiver sex, self-efficacy, and social support.

Methods

Caregivers (N = 140) of youth admitted to the hospital for their first HCT were asked to complete self-report measures of their use of positive and negative religious coping, PTSS, PTG, social support, and self-efficacy. Two hierarchical linear regressions were conducted to test hypotheses.

Results

Greater positive religious coping, but not negative religious coping, was associated with caregivers reporting more PTG in response to pediatric HCT. More negative religious coping, but not positive religious coping, was associated with caregivers experiencing greater PTSS.

Conclusions

Engaging in positive religious coping appears to promote better caregiver adjustment to pediatric HCT, whereas negative religious coping may increase caregiver risk for developing PTSS. Screening caregivers’ religious beliefs, including the type of religious coping they employ, could inform providers regarding the best approach to supporting caregivers towards a growth trajectory and mitigate PTSS.
Introduction—Historical Fiction and the 1960s: Mediating the Past and Reimagining the Future
Authors: Sheffer Jolie A
Published: December 2020

This introduction to the special issue on contemporary ethnic historical fiction considers recent trends in the field, as well as the critical history of this popular genre. Over the last two decades, historical fiction, particularly by writers of color, has gone mainstream, gaining large audiences as well as critical admiration. These works challenge the conservatism of the genre, both formally and thematically. Combining historical research with speculative elements, these works tell new stories about US history, centering on the lives of those too often sidelined or ignored in mainstream version of American history and in literary fiction. These various formal and thematic features suggest a distinctive generational moment, shaped by the nation's changing demographics and shifting political conditions. Contemporary ethnic American historical novelists focus simultaneously on the past and the present, bringing current preoccupations—such as the omnipresence of white supremacy, the unresolved trauma of war, and the demonization of refugees and immigrants—to light through their detailed re-creation and reimagining of historical events. In this way, contemporary ethnic American historical fiction operates as a means of representing, and attempting to work through, national traumas.
Planet formation in intermediate-separation binary systems
Authors: Panić O , Haworth T J , Petr-Gotzens M G , Miley J , van den Ancker M , Vioque M , Siess L , Parker R , Clarke C J , Kamp I , Kennedy G , Oudmaijer R D , Pascucci I , Richards A M S , Ratzka T , Qi C
Published: December 2020

We report the first characterization of the individual discs in the intermediate-separation binary systems KK Oph and HD 144668 at millimetre wavelengths. In both systems, the circumprimary and the circumsecondary discs are detected in the millimetre continuum emission, but not in 13CO nor C18O lines. Even though the disc structure is only marginally resolved, we find indications of large-scale asymmetries in the outer regions of the primary discs, most likely due to perturbation by the companion. The derived dust masses are firmly above debris disc level for all stars. The primaries have about three times more dust in their discs than the secondaries. In the case of HD 144668, the opacity spectral index of the primary and secondary differ by a large margin of 0.69, which may be a consequence of the secondary disc being more compact. Upper limits on the gas masses imply less than 0.1 Mjup in any of these discs, meaning that giant planets can no longer form in them. Considering that there have been no massive gas discs identified to date in intermediate-separation binaries (i.e. binaries at a few hundred au separation), this opens space for speculation whether their binarity causes the removal of gas, with tidal interaction truncating the discs and hence shortening the accretion time-scale. More systematic studies in this respect are sorely needed.
The physical and the geometrical properties of simulated cold H i structures
Authors: Gazol Adriana , Villagran Marco A
Published: December 2020

The objective of this paper is to help shedding some light on the nature and the properties of the cold structures formed via thermal instability in the magnetized atomic interstellar medium. To this end, we searched for clumps formed in forced (magneto)hydrodynamic simulations with an initial magnetic field ranging from 0 to 8.3 μG. We statistically analysed, through the use of Kernel density estimations, the physical and the morphological properties of a sample containing ∼1500 clumps, as well as the relative alignments between the main direction of clumps and the internal velocity and magnetic field. The density (n ∼ 50–200 cm−3), the thermal pressure (Pth/k ∼ 4.9 × 103–104 K cm−3), the mean magnetic field (∼3–11 μG), and the sonic Mach number of the selected clumps have values comparable to those reported in observations. We find, however, that the cloud sample cannot be described by a single regime concerning their pressure balance and their Alfvénic Mach number. We measured the morphological properties of clumps mainly through the asphericity and the prolatness, which appear to be more sensitive than the aspect ratios. From this analysis, we find that the presence of magnetic field, even if it is weak, does qualitatively affect the morphology of the clumps by increasing the probability of having highly aspherical and highly plolate clumps by a factor of two, that is by producing more filamentary clumps. Finally, we find that the angle between the main direction of the clumps and the local magnetic field lies between ∼π/4 and π/2 and shifts to more perpendicular alignments as the intensity of this field increases, while the relative direction between the local density structure and the local magnetic field transits from parallel to perpendicular.
AU-scale radio imaging of the wind collision region in the brightest and most luminous non-thermal colliding wind binary Apep
Authors: Marcote B , Callingham J R , De Becker M , Edwards P G , Han Y , Schulz R , Stevens J , Tuthill P G
Published: December 2020

The recently discovered colliding-wind binary (CWB) Apep has been shown to emit luminously from radio to X-rays, with the emission driven by a binary composed of two Wolf–Rayet (WR) stars of one carbon-sequence (WC8) and one nitrogen-sequence (WN4–6b). Mid-infrared imaging revealed a giant spiral dust plume that is reminiscent of a pinwheel nebula but with additional features that suggest Apep is a unique system. We have conducted observations with the Australian Long Baseline Array to resolve Apep’s radio emission on milliarcsecond scales, allowing us to relate the geometry of the wind-collision region to that of the spiral plume. The observed radio emission shows a bow-shaped structure, confirming its origin as a wind-collision region. The shape and orientation of this region is consistent with being originated by the two stars and with being likely dominated by the stronger wind of the WN4–6b star. This shape allowed us to provide a rough estimation of the opening angle of ∼150○ assuming ideal conditions. The orientation and opening angle of the emission also confirms it as the basis for the spiral dust plume. We also provide estimations for the two stars in the system to milliarcsecond precision. The observed radio emission, one order of magnitude brighter and more luminous than any other known non-thermal radio-emitting CWB, confirms it is produced by an extremely powerful wind collision. Such a powerful wind-collision region is consistent with Apep being a binary composed of two WR stars, so far the first unambiguously confirmed system of its kind.
Defending subjective inflation: an inference to the best explanation
Authors: Knotts J D , Michel Matthias , Odegaard Brian
Published: December 2020

In a recent opinion piece, Abid (2019) criticizes the hypothesis that subjective inflation may partly account for apparent phenomenological richness across the visual field and outside the focus of attention. In response, we address three main issues. First, we maintain that inflation should be interpreted as an intraperceptual—and not post-perceptual—phenomenon. Second, we describe how inflation may differ from filling-in. Finally, we contend that, in general, there is sufficient evidence to tip the scales toward intraperceptual interpretations of visibility and confidence judgments.
Large-scale magnetic field structure of NGC 3627 based on a magnetic vector map
Authors: Kurahara Kohei , Nakanishi Hiroyuki , Kudoh Yuki
Published: December 2020

We analyzed the data of Stokes I, Q, and U in the C and X bands and investigated the large-scale magnetic field structure of NGC 3627. The polarization intensity and angle in each band were derived using Stokes Q and U maps. The rotation measure was calculated using polarization angle maps. Moreover, the magnetic field strength was calculated by assuming energy equipartition with cosmic ray electrons. The structure of the magnetic field was well aligned with the spiral arms, which were consistent with those in the former studies. We applied the magnetic vector reconstruction method to NGC 3627 to derive a magnetic vector map, which showed that the northern and southern disks were dominant with inward and outward magnetic vectors, respectively. Furthermore, we considered the large-scale structure of the magnetic field in NGC 3627 and observed that the structure is bi-symmetric spiral in nature, and that the number of magnetic field modes is mB = 1 in the outer region of galaxy. In addition, NGC 3627 has a mode of two spiral arms that were clearly visible in an optical image. The ratio of the mode of the spiral arms to that of the magnetic field is 2 : 1. In terms of NGC 3627, the large-scale magnetic field may be generated via the parametric resonance induced by the gravitational potential of the spiral arms.
Commercial weight management programmes for patients living with overweight or obesity prior to elective orthopaedic surgery: an evidence review
Authors: Clark E M , Garner J , Wood S
Published: December 2020

Background

Increased body mass index is associated with increased operative risk during elective joint replacement surgery. Commercial weight management programmes are designed to achieve weight loss. It is not known whether commercial weight management programmes are effective at achieving weight loss in patients awaiting planned hip or knee replacement surgery, or whether achieving significant planned weight loss prior to surgery is associated with changes in surgical outcome.

Methods

A systematic literature search of seven databases was conducted. Reference lists and grey literature were searched, including commercial weight management programme and medical association websites. Four relevant primary interventional studies were identified.

Results

There is weak, low-quality evidence from four small studies, of which three demonstrated that commercial weight management programmes initiated between 3 and 6 months prior to elective joint replacement surgery are associated with a statistically significant weight loss and body mass index reduction. There is a weak evidence from two studies that peri- and post-operative complications are similar between control and commercial weight management programme groups.

Conclusion

There is a paucity of studies investigating commercial weight management programmes aiming to reduce weight in patients living with overweight or obesity awaiting total joint replacement. Further, high-quality research is urgently needed.
Technology addiction among school-going adolescents in India: epidemiological analysis from a cluster survey for strengthening adolescent health programs at district level
Authors: Amudhan Senthil , Prakasha Huruli , Mahapatra Payel , Burma Ajit Deo , Mishra Vinayak , Sharma Manoj Kumar , Rao Girish N
Published: December 2020

Background

There is limited evidence on technology addiction among adolescents in low- and middle-income countries where 90% of global adolescents live. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and correlates of technology addiction (Internet, gaming, smartphone, television) among school-going adolescents in India.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey covering the entire district (administrative unit for health) of India was conducted among representative sample of school-going adolescents using stratified cluster sampling. A total of 1729 adolescents completed the survey (age M = 12.58; SD = 0.97) by responding to Internet Addiction Test-Adolescents, Game Addiction Scale, Smartphone Addiction Scale and Television Addiction Scale. Associated factors were analyzed using binomial logistic regression analysis.

Results

Almost all the participants (99.59%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 99.28–99.91%) were using technology in one or other form. Prevalence of technology addiction among the users was 10.69% (95% CI: 5.26–16.11%). Phone addiction (8.91%; 95% CI: 3.31–14.52%) was the most common type followed by gaming addiction (2.55%; 95% CI: 1.16–3.95%). Technology addiction among adolescents was significantly associated with several risk factors at individual, family and school levels.

Conclusion

Technology addiction emerges as an important public health problem among adolescents in India. An integrated socio-ecological framework with multi-level approach that targets risk factors at various levels is required to promote healthy behaviors towards technology.
Central Hub M&A Advisors
Authors: Yawson Alfred , Zhang Huizhong
Published: December 2020

We examine how an M&A advisor’s position in the network of investment banks affects its ability to create value for acquirers in takeover transactions. We show that acquirers enlisting the services of more centrally positioned M&A advisors enjoy higher announcement abnormal returns and pay lower takeover premiums. Consistent with the idea that central network positions convey an information advantage, we find that the effects are stronger for acquirers facing greater target information asymmetry and for M&A advisors depending more on networks for target-specific information. The information advantage primarily comes from network contacts that had previously assisted the targets in equity issuance. Centrally positioned advisors charge premium fees; network banks appear to enjoy a significant advantage in the competition for future co-advisory appointments.
Single enzyme RT-PCR of full-length ribosomal RNA
Authors: Hammerling Michael J , Yoesep Danielle J , Jewett Michael C
Published: December 2020

The ribosome is a two-subunit, macromolecular machine composed of RNA and proteins that carries out the polymerization of α-amino acids into polypeptides. Efforts to engineer ribosomal RNA (rRNA) deepen our understanding of molecular translation and provide opportunities to expand the chemistry of life by creating ribosomes with altered properties. Toward these efforts, reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) of the entire 16S and 23S rRNAs, which make up the 30S small subunit and 50S large subunit, respectively, is important for isolating desired phenotypes. However, reverse transcription of rRNA is challenging due to extensive secondary structure and post-transcriptional modifications. One key challenge is that existing commercial kits for RT-PCR rely on reverse transcriptases that lack the extreme thermostability and processivity found in many commercial DNA polymerases, which can result in subpar performance on challenging templates. Here, we develop methods employing a synthetic thermostable reverse transcriptase (RTX) to enable and optimize RT-PCR of the complete Escherichia coli 16S and 23S rRNAs. We also characterize the error rate of RTX when traversing the various post-transcriptional modifications of the 23S rRNA. We anticipate that this work will facilitate efforts to study and characterize many naturally occurring long RNAs and to engineer the translation apparatus for synthetic biology.
Management of Nonhealable and Maintenance Wounds: A Systematic Integrative Review and Referral Pathway
Authors: Boersema Geertien C. , Smart Hiske , Giaquinto-Cilliers Maria G. C. , Mulder Magda , Weir Gregory R. , Bruwer Febe A. , Idensohn Patricia J. , Sander Johanna E. , Stavast Anita , Swart Mariette , Thiart Susan , Van der Merwe Zhavandre
Published: December 2020

GENERAL PURPOSE

To synthesize the evidence regarding nonhealable and maintenance wound management and propose an interprofessional referral pathway for wound management.

TARGET AUDIENCE

This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After participating in this continuing professional development activity, the participant will apply knowledge gained to:

1. Identify the ideas from the authors’ systematic review that could prove useful in understanding nonhealable and maintenance wound management.

2. Select evidence-based management strategies for nonhealable and maintenance wound management.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic integrative review aims to identify, appraise, analyze, and synthesize evidence regarding nonhealable and maintenance wound management to guide clinical practice. An interprofessional referral pathway for wound management is proposed.

DATA SOURCES

An electronic search of Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Academic Search Ultimate, Africa-Wide Information, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature database with Full Text, Health Source: Consumer

Edition, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, and MEDLINE was conducted for publications from 2011 to 2019. Search terms included (nonhealable/nonhealing, chronic, stalled, recurring, delayed healing, hard-to-heal) and wound types most associated with nonhealable or maintenance wounds. Published studies were hand searched by the authors.

STUDY SELECTION

Studies were appraised using two quality appraisal tools. Thirteen reviews, six best-practice guidelines, three consensus studies, and six original nonexperimental studies were selected.

DATA EXTRACTION

Data were extracted using a coding framework including treatment of underlying causes, patient-centered concerns, local wound care, alternative outcomes, health dialogue needs, challenges within resource restricted contexts, and prevention.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Data were clustered by five wound types and local wound bed factors; further, commonalities were identified and reported as themes and subthemes.

CONCLUSIONS

Strong evidence on the clinical management of nonhealable wounds is limited. Few studies describe outcomes specific to maintenance care. Patient-centered care, timely intervention by skilled healthcare providers, and involvement of the interprofessional team emerged as the central themes of effective management of maintenance and nonhealable wounds.
Gene Expression of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 Receptor in Skin and the Implications for COVID-19
Authors: Al-Benna Sammy
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor is a critical step for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to enter target cells. This enzyme is expressed in many human tissues including the lungs, but no research has demonstrated that SARS-CoV-2 can infect human skin or subcutaneous fat tissue, despite the increasing number of reported skin manifestations. The aim of this study was to investigate ACE2 gene expression in skin using a public database.

METHODS

A search of transcriptomic data sets from a public gene expression database to investigate ACE2 gene expression in human tissues.

RESULTS

Human skin keratinocytes and basal cells express more ACE2 than lung epithelial cells. In contrast, both fibroblasts and melanocytes from human skin express less ACE2 than human lung epithelial cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The high expression of ACE2 in keratinocytes and basal cells of human skin indicates that they may be directly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection via the ACE2 receptor, especially in conditions of skin barrier dysfunction, and are therefore a potential target for the coronavirus.
Therapeutic Patient Education: A Multifaceted Approach to Ostomy Care
Authors: Lataillade Laurence , Chabal Laurent
Published: December 2020

This contribution presents a literature review of therapeutic patient education and a summary of an oral presentation given by two wound care specialists at a recent European Congress. It relates these to models of care in nursing science and other research that contributes to this approach at the core of healthcare practice.
Retrospective Clinical Evaluation of Negative-Pressure Wound Therapy for Infection Prevention Following Malignant Pelvic Bone Tumor Resection Reconstruction
Authors: Cai Tao , Zhang Lei , Zhu Kunpeng , Hu Jianping , Zhan Taichen , Liu Liwei , Li Cheng , Zhang Chunlin
Published: December 2020

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical outcomes of negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) for infection prevention following pelvic reconstruction after malignant bone tumor resection.

METHODS

The study involved 82 patients who underwent pelvic reconstruction following en-bloc resection of malignant bone tumors between January 2003 and January 2016. Forty patients were treated with NPWT via implantation of vacuum-sealing drainage (VSD) materials into the pelvic cavity to prevent infection and wound problems (VSD group), and the remaining 42 patients underwent conventional treatment (control group). Study authors compared the inpatient length of stay, antibiotic use, drainage volume, time to wound closure, and infection rates between groups. Investigators also conducted cell cultures of the wound cavity washing fluid and hematoxylin-eosin staining for VSD materials to find recurrent tumor cells.

RESULTS

In the VSD group, one patient (2.5%) had a superficial wound problem. In the control group, 18 patients (42.9%) had deep infection or wound problems. The VSD group had a significantly decreased infection rate, duration of antibiotic administration and inpatient stay, as well as increased wound healing compared with the control group (P < .05). Further, no tumor cells were observed in the VSD material or the wound cavity washing fluid.

CONCLUSIONS

The application of NPWT with VSD material may be an effective and reliable method for preventing infection in patients who undergo pelvic reconstruction following malignant tumor resection.
Exposure–Response Relationship of Tranexamic Acid in Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Zufferey Paul Jacques , Lanoiselée Julien , Graouch Billal , Vieille Baptiste , Delavenne Xavier , Ollier Edouard
Published: December 2020

Background

It is unclear whether high-dose regimens of tranexamic acid in cardiac surgery (total dose, 80 to 100 mg/kg) confer a clinical advantage over low-dose regimens (total dose, approximately 20 mg/kg), particularly as tranexamic acid–associated seizure may be dose-related. The authors’ aim was to characterize the exposure–response relationship of this drug.

Methods

Databases were searched for randomized controlled trials of intravenous tranexamic acid in adult patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. Observational studies were added for seizure assessment. Tranexamic acid concentrations were predicted in each arm of each study using a population pharmacokinetic model. The exposure–response relationship was evaluated by performing a model-based meta-analysis using nonlinear mixed-effect models.

Results

Sixty-four randomized controlled trials and 18 observational studies (49,817 patients) were included. Seventy-three different regimens of tranexamic acid were identified, with the total dose administered ranging from 5.5 mg/kg to 20 g. The maximum effect of tranexamic acid for postoperative blood loss reduction was 40% (95% credible interval, 34 to 47%), and the EC50 was 5.6 mg/l (95% credible interval, 0.7 to 11 mg/l). Exposure values with low-dose regimens approached the 80% effective concentration, whereas with high-dose regimens, they exceeded the 90% effective concentration. The predicted cumulative blood loss up to 48 h postsurgery differed by 58 ml between the two regimens, and the absolute difference in erythrocyte transfusion rate was 2%. Compared to no tranexamic acid, low-dose and high-dose regimens increased the risk of seizure by 1.2-fold and 2-fold, respectively. However, the absolute risk increase was only clinically meaningful in the context of prolonged open-chamber surgery.

Conclusions

In cardiopulmonary bypass surgery, low-dose tranexamic acid seems to be an appropriate regimen for reducing bleeding outcomes. This meta-analysis has to be interpreted with caution because the results are observational and dependent on the lack of bias of the predicted tranexamic acid exposures and the quality of the included studies.

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Availability of Donor Human Milk Decreases the Incidence of Necrotizing Enterocolitis in VLBW Infants
Authors: Cohen Morris , Steffen Eileen , Axelrod Randi , Patel Shalini N. , Toczylowski Krystyna , Perdon Christine , Brown David , Kaliappan Sankar , Myers Michael
Published: December 2020

Background:

Human milk feeding is associated with decreased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).

Purpose:

To determine whether a quality improvement project in New Jersey neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) to promote human milk (HM) feedings would be associated with a decrease in NEC.

Methods:

Fourteen New Jersey NICUs engaged in efforts to reduce infection and promote HM feeding in very low birth-weight (VLBW) infants. Donor human milk (DHM) availability and NEC rates were assessed.

Results:

From 2009 to 2016, NICUs with DHM increased from 0 to 7. VLBW infants discharged on any HM increased from 35% in 2007 before the formation of the New Jersey NICU Collaborative to more than 55% in 2016. Time to first oropharyngeal colostrum decreased from 37 to 30 hours from 2014 to 2016. HM at first feeding increased from 71% in 2013 to 82% in 2016. There was an increase in the percentage of feeds that were HM over the first 7 days of feeding. Analyses of data from 9400 VLBW infants born between 2009 and 2016 showed that the incidence of NEC when DHM was not available was 5.1% (367/7182) whereas the incidence when DHM was available (64/2218) was significantly lower (2.9%; P < .0001).

Implications for Practice:

These findings show advantages of feeding HM and effectiveness of forming an NICU collaborative for improving care for preterm infants.

Implications for Research:

New research projects should measure the quantity of HM consumed daily during the entire NICU stay and assess the timing and amount of HM consumption in relationship to incidence of NEC and infection in neonates.
ATG7-mediated autophagy involves in miR-138-5p regulated self-renewal and invasion of lung cancer stem-like cells derived from A549 cells
Authors: Zhou Qian , Cui Fenghe , Lei Chenggang , Ma Shengwei , Huang Jiangping , Wang Xianghui , Qian Haiyun , Zhang Deming , Yang Yalun
Published: December 2020

Activation and proliferation of cancer stem cells exert an important role in the invasion, metastasis, and recurrence of malignant tumors, including lung cancer. Therefore, exploring molecular targets related to self-renewal and mobility of lung cancer stem cells has important clinical significance. In our present study, we aimed to explore the effects of miR-138-5p on lung cancer stem-like cells and associated regulatory mechanism. In our present study, enhanced self-renewal capacity and elevated expression of cancer stem cells markers CD133, CD44, aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 of lung cancer stem-like cells derived from A549 cells were firstly verified. Then, obviously enhanced autophagy was found in lung cancer stem-like cells compared with parental cells A549. Besides, we found that enhanced autophagy induced by rapamycin promoted self-renewal and cell mobility of lung cancer stem-like cells and suppression of autophagy by 3-methyladenine exerted just opposite effects. In addition, miR-138-5p was found to be downregulated in lung cancer stem-like cells compared with that in parental cell A549. At the same time, overexpression of miR-138-5p by transfected with miR-138-5p mimic was found to effectively suppress self-renewal and invasion of lung cancer stem-like cells. Further study revealed that ATG7 was a target of miR-138-5p and overexpressed miR-138-5p suppressed ATG7-mediated autophagy. In addition, specific small interference RNA-ATG7 strengthened the inhibiting effect of miR-138-5p mimic on self-renewal and invasion of lung cancer stem-like cells. Taken together, we found that autophagy helped to maintain self-renewal and invasion ability of lung cancer stem-like cells and overexpressed miR-138-5p exerted anti-tumor effects by blocking the self-renewal and invasion of lung cancer stem-like cells through suppressing ATG7-mediated autophagy.
A ROD–CONE DYSTROPHY IS SYSTEMATICALLY ASSOCIATED TO THE RTN4IP1 RECESSIVE OPTIC ATROPHY
Authors: Meunier Isabelle , Bocquet Béatrice , Charif Majida , Dhaenens Claire-Marie , Manes Gael , Amati-Bonneau Patrizia , Roubertie Agathe , Zanlonghi Xavier , Lenaers Guy
Published: December 2020

Purpose:

RTN4IP1 biallelic mutations cause a recessive optic atrophy, sometimes associated to more severe neurological syndromes, but so far, no retinal phenotype has been reported in RTN4IP1 patients, justifying their reappraisal.

Methods:

Seven patients from four families carrying biallelic RTN4IP1 variants were retrospectively reviewed, with emphasis on their age of onset, visual acuity, multimodal imaging including color and autofluorescence frames, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography with RNFL and macular analyses.

Results:

Seven patients from four RTN4IP1 families developed in their first decade of life a bilateral recessive optic atrophy with severe central visual loss, and primary nystagmus developed in 5 of 7 patients. Six patients were legally blind. In a second stage, the seven individuals developed a rod–cone dystrophy, sparing the macular zone and the far periphery. This retinal damage was identified by 55° field fundus autofluorescence frames and also by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography scans of the temporal part of the macular zone in five of the seven patients. Full-field electroretinography measurements disclosed reduced b-wave amplitude of the rod responses in all patients but two. Family 4 with the p.R103H and c.601A > T (p.K201*) truncating mutation had further combined neurological signs with cerebellar ataxia, seizures, and intellectual disability.

Conclusion:

RTN4IP1 recessive optic atrophy is systematically associated to a rod–cone dystrophy, which suggests that both the retinal ganglion cells and the rods are affected as a result of a deficit in the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Thus, systematic widefield autofluorescence frames and temporal macular scans are recommended for the evaluation of patients with optic neuropathies.