bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss‐of‐function mutations in the melanocortin‐3 receptor gene confer risk for human obesity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ehtesham Sahar , Qasim Anila , Meyre David
Published: May 2019

The association between rare coding loss‐of‐function (LOF) mutations in the melanocortin receptor 3 (MC3R) gene and human obesity is controversial. To fill this gap of knowledge, we performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of genetic association studies in all ages and ethnicities. Two reviewers independently performed risk of bias assessment and extracted data. We searched Medline, Embase, Web of Science Core Collection, BIOSIS Preview, CINAHL, ProQuest Dissertations & Theses, and reference lists of relevant studies. All case‐control, cross‐sectional, prospective, and retrospective studies that evaluated prevalence of rare (less than 1% frequency) coding partial/complete LOF mutations in MC3R among individuals with obesity and normal weight were included. Our systematic search identified 1925 references relevant to the present review. Six studies were deemed eligible. Meta‐analysis of 2969 individuals with obesity and 2572 with normal weight showed a positive association between rare heterozygous coding partial/complete LOF mutations in MC3R and obesity in children and adults of European, North African, and Asian ancestries (odds ratio = 3.07; 95% CI, 1.48‐7.00; P = 4.2 × 10−3). Our data demonstrates that rare partial/complete LOF mutations in the coding region of MC3R confer three‐time increased risk of obesity in humans, and implies that rare genetic variants with intermediate effects contribute to the missing heritability of obesity.
Identification of candidate genes associated with resistance to bruchid (Callosobruchus maculatus) in cowpea
Authors: Miesho Belay , Hailay Mehari , Msiska Ulemu , Bruno Awio , Malinga Geoffrey M. , Obia Ongom Patrick , Edema Richard , Gibson Paul , Rubaihayo Patrick , Kyamanywa Samuel
Published: May 2019

Cowpea is an important legume crop widely grown in sub‐Saharan Africa for food and feed. However, it is largely challenged by bruchid, a serious storage pest resulting in losses in quantity and quality of grains. Therefore, this research was designed to contribute to the breeding of cowpea resistance to bruchid through the identification of candidate genes associated with resistance to bruchid. A total of 217 mini‐core cowpea accessions were genotyped and phenotyped for their reactions to bruchid. To determine the genomic regions linked with bruchid resistance, 41,948 polymorphic SNP markers were used. Genome‐wide association study identified 11 SNPs linked to the average number of eggs, holes, insect emergence and development period and Dobie susceptibility index. Gene search via Phytozome identified six candidate genes (Vigun08g132300, Vigun08g158000, Vigun06g053700, Vigun02g131000, Vigun01g234900 and Vigun01g201900) associated with the resistance traits. These candidate genes could be incorporated into the farmers preferred but susceptible cowpea varieties to bruchid. The SNP markers associated with the resistance traits can be used in marker‐assisted breeding for accurate and rapid screening of cowpea resistant genotypes to bruchid.
Effect of oestrous resynchronization on the reproductive efficiency of zebu cows
Authors: Faleiro Nilson Shonholzer , Neves Kedson Alessandri Lobo , Pereira Luciano Leite , Silva Cleidson Manoel Gomes da , Vale William Gomes , Minervino Antonio Humberto Hamad
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study was to develop a resynchronization strategy before the return of oestrus in cows diagnosed as not pregnant after fixed‐time artificial insemination (TAI). A total of 839 cows, approximately 45 days post‐partum, were synchronized using TAI. On day 0, intravaginal progesterone‐releasing devices were inserted and 2 mg of oestradiol benzoate was administered. Eight days later (D8), the progesterone‐releasing devices were removed and oestradiol cypionate (0.5 mg, eCG [300 IU]) and prostaglandin (7.5 mg) were administered. All cows were inseminated between 48 and 56 hr after device removal (D10). Thirty days after TAI, cows that were not diagnosed as pregnant by ultrasound were immediately resynchronized and again inseminated at a fixed time. The hormonal protocol used in the first and second rounds of TAI was the same. The pregnancy rate after the first TAI was 52%, and after the second TAI, it was 49%. The increase in the total pregnancy rate (synchronization + second oestrous synchronization) compared to a single synchronization was 23.5%. In conclusion, resynchronization of oestrus and ovulation in zebu cows that had previously undergone TAI protocols is effective in increasing the reproductive efficiency.
An Embedded Experiment for Targeted Non-Response Follow-Up in Establishment Surveys
Authors: Kaputa Stephen J. , Thompson Katherine Jenny , Beck Jennifer L.
Published: May 2019

The US Census Bureau is investigating adaptive non-response follow-up strategies for single-unit businesses in the 2017 Economic Census. The paper describes an embedded split-panel field experiment in the 2015 Annual Survey of Manufactures that tests two adaptive non-response follow-up designs. With the first design, non-responding establishments in the experimental group received a reminder letter either by certified mail (expensive) or standard mail (inexpensive) based on an optimal allocation that assigns a higher proportion of the certified letters to domains that initially have low unit response rates. This targeted allocation procedure ensures that all units receive some form of non-response follow-up but saves cost over the current procedure that sends a certified letter to all non-responding units. The second studied adaptive design restricts the non-response follow-up for the probability subsample of non-respondents selected for the targeted allocation. We compare the quality effects of the two studied adaptive non-response follow-up designs, examining effects on response, respondent sample balance and collected data quality.
How well aligned are common core textbooks to students’ development in area measurement?
Authors: Hong Dae S. , Choi Kyong Mi , Runnalls Cristina , Hwang Jihyun
Published: May 2019

Among dozens of factors that influence mathematics teaching in the elementary classroom, textbooks endure as a significant contributor to the conversation. While teachers have many considerations while lesson planning, the textbook often forms an important launch point in determining what to include in lessons and how to do so. It follows that discrepancies between textbooks and research‐recommended pathways for learning may lead to concerns or issues with pacing in the classroom. To explore this idea further, this study examined the alignment between three popular Common Core–aligned textbooks series and learning trajectories with respect to the topic of area measurement. Our findings indicated key differences in the ways textbooks presented area lessons and research‐recommended ways of learning area topics, including a lack of appropriate area topic coverage in early grades and a mismatch of timing of concepts in later grades. The results indicated that the standards‐based textbooks examined may lack attention to important topics in the pacing of area instruction, and suggest the need to inform both preservice and inservice teachers about the gap between textbook lessons and area learning trajectories so that development steps in area learning trajectory can be included in lesson plans.
Tweeting Blame in a Federalist System: Attributions for Disaster Response in Social Media Following Hurricane Sandy
Authors: Canales Kristine L. , Pope JoEllen V. , Maestas Cherie D.
Published: May 2019

Objective

Attribution of responsibility for government performance in a federalist system is challenging but necessary for democratic accountability. We identify competing hypotheses for how attributions for government performance might arise in social media and test our expectations using data drawn from Twitter following Hurricane Sandy.

Method

We use a novel linguistic approach to measure blame attributions in text and compare patterns of blame attributions toward multiple levels of government over time.

Results

Social media blame attributions emerge at the outset of the storm and are more likely to center on federal actors, followed by local actors. State actors received the least blame. We find similar patterns in retweets.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that social media privileges attributions that target broadly salient national political actors; however, social media accounts of disaster may make it easier for the public to assess performance of local and state government.
Functional specialization of UDP‐glycosyltransferase 73P12 in licorice to produce a sweet triterpenoid saponin, glycyrrhizin
Authors: Nomura Yuhta , Seki Hikaru , Suzuki Tomonori , Ohyama Kiyoshi , Mizutani Masaharu , Kaku Tomomi , Tamura Keita , Ono Eiichiro , Horikawa Manabu , Sudo Hiroshi , Hayashi Hiroaki , Saito Kazuki , Muranaka Toshiya
Published: May 2019

Glycyrrhizin, a sweet triterpenoid saponin found in the roots and stolons of Glycyrrhiza species (licorice), is an important active ingredient in traditional herbal medicine. We previously identified two cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, CYP88D6 and CYP72A154, that produce an aglycone of glycyrrhizin, glycyrrhetinic acid, in Glycyrrhiza uralensis. The sugar moiety of glycyrrhizin, which is composed of two glucuronic acids, makes it sweet and reduces its side‐effects. Here, we report that UDP‐glycosyltransferase (UGT) 73P12 catalyzes the second glucuronosylation as the final step of glycyrrhizin biosynthesis in G. uralensis; the UGT73P12 produced glycyrrhizin by transferring a glucuronosyl moiety of UDP‐glucuronic acid to glycyrrhetinic acid 3‐O‐monoglucuronide. We also obtained a natural variant of UGT73P12 from a glycyrrhizin‐deficient (83‐555) strain of G. uralensis. The natural variant showed loss of specificity for UDP‐glucuronic acid and resulted in the production of an alternative saponin, glucoglycyrrhizin. These results are consistent with the chemical phenotype of the 83‐555 strain, and suggest the contribution of UGT73P12 to glycyrrhizin biosynthesis in planta. Furthermore, we identified Arg32 as the essential residue of UGT73P12 that provides high specificity for UDP‐glucuronic acid. These results strongly suggest the existence of an electrostatic interaction between the positively charged Arg32 and the negatively charged carboxy group of UDP‐glucuronic acid. The functional arginine residue and resultant specificity for UDP‐glucuronic acid are unique to UGT73P12 in the UGT73P subfamily. Our findings demonstrate the functional specialization of UGT73P12 for glycyrrhizin biosynthesis during divergent evolution, and provide mechanistic insights into UDP‐sugar selectivity for the rational engineering of sweet triterpenoid saponins.
More than Corpses, Less than Ghosts: A Visual Theory of Culture in Early Ethnographic Photography
Authors: Delaplace Gregory
Published: May 2019

In its intent to make “culture” visible through the objective depiction of specific scenes of indigenous life, ethnographic photography at the turn of the twentieth century could be understood against two other scientific uses of the camera at that time: the anatomic photographs of physical anthropologists, on the one hand, and the ghost photographs of spiritualist circles, on the other. Indeed, while capturing “culture” involved having more than still bodies appear on the picture, which implied elaborate apparatuses meant to make it happen in front of the camera lens, early ethnographers were anxious not to let too much appear either, as “culture” was supposed to manifest itself more subtly than the ghosts revealed through spirit photography. This article thus argues that photographing “culture” at the turn of the twentieth century meant getting its invisibility right; it describes some of the devices and operations early ethnographers used to make it appear objectively.
Flaviviruses in migratory passerines during spring stopover in a desert oasis
Authors: Ayadi Tasnim , Hammouda Abdesslem , Beck Ceclie , Boulinier Thierry , Lecollinet Sylvie , Selmi Slaheddine
Published: May 2019

Bird migration has long been hypothesized as the main mechanism for long‐distance dispersal of flaviviruses, but the role of migratory birds in flaviviruses spillover is not well documented. In this study, we investigated the eco‐epidemiology of West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) in trans‐Saharan passerines during their spring stopover in southern Tunisian oases. To do, we combined oral swab analysis and serological tools to assess whether migratory birds could be reaching these stopover sites while infectious or have been previously exposed to viruses. All sampled birds tested negative for oral swab analysis. However, anti‐WNV and anti‐USUV antibodies were detected in 32% and 1% of tested birds, respectively. Among WNV‐seropositive species, the Golden oriole (Oriolus oriolus) showed the highest anti‐WNV occurrence probability. In this species, anti‐WNV occurrence was twice larger in males than females. Inter‐specific and intraspecific morphological, physiological and behavioural differences could explain these results. Although our findings did not show evidence for passerines migrating while infectious, they did not exclude an existing enzootic WNV transmission cycle in Tunisian oases. Further investigations including larger samples of migratory birds are needed for a better understanding of this issue.
Stage Performance and Radial Matching of Axial Compressor Blade Rows
Authors: Watkins Jeffrey
Published: May 2019

To obtain the ultimate in performance from an axial compressor stage it is necessary that the operation of the blade rows comprising the stage be thoroughly understood. Appreciable advances have been accomplished in recent years, but much still remains to be done. This paper aims to present practical hypotheses concerning the nature of the flow between the blades and deals with design techniques in relation to this flow.

In addition, some elements of two-dimensional cascade data and a discourse on practical secondary flows are presented.
Fuels
Authors: Foster A. D.
Published: May 2019

A summary of the progress made since 1952 with respect to gas-turbine fuels is presented together with a review of the operating experiences reported on gaseous, liquid, and solid fuels. The technical problems involved are indicated as well as the methods employed for their solution. An appraisal of those areas requiring further developmental study is also included.
The Aerodynamic Approach to Furnace Design
Authors: Chesters J. H.
Published: May 2019

Flow patterns and mixing in actual furnaces can be best appreciated by starting with free jets and proceeding via jets in simple envelopes to jets (cold or alight) fed with surrounding air streams and impacting on surfaces. The fuel stream in an open-hearth furnace behaves initially as a free jet, entraining the relatively low velocity air around it, but on hitting the bath it splashes and runs forward and up the side walls. The gases reaching the roof eject flux droplets and then divide, part recirculating to meet the oncoming air and part joining the main flow to the exit. Future progress requires more knowledge of droplet dynamics, and demands more symmetrical flow, control of recirculation, or radical changes.
Power Test Code Thermometer Wells
Authors: Murdock J. W.
Published: May 2019

Design of thermometer wells involves strength and thermal considerations. Criteria for thermal evaluation have been well established, those for strength have not. This paper presents thermometer-well designs proposed for Power Test Code work. Forces imposed by static pressure, steady-state fluid impingement, vibration induced by Karman trail vortexes, and structure-borne vibration are discussed. Methods and equations are given to enable the selection of wells for given service conditions. Although these methods are confined to wells of Power Test Code design, the Appendix contains derivations of general equations that may be adapted for any cantilever-type thermometer well.
Torsion of a Prismatical Bar Whose Section Is a Crescent
Authors: Sisto F.
Published: May 2019

The Saint Venant torsion problem is solved for a region bounded by two circular arcs forming a crescent. The region is conformally transformed to an infinite strip and the stress function is obtained by Fourier integral. Subsequent quadratures for evaluation of the torsion constant are obtained explicitly with the exception of a single infinite integral which may easily be evaluated numerically. Some values of the torsion constant are given, and an approximate formula valid for small “camber” is presented.
Dynamic Loading of Spur Gear Teeth
Authors: Attia A. Y.
Published: May 2019

The paper presents results of strain gage investigations conducted on steel spur gears to measure the instantaneous load on the tooth under static and dynamic conditions.
The Design of Linkages to Generate Functions of Two Variables
Authors: Allen C. W.
Published: May 2019

Graphical methods are presented for designing linkages that have two inputs and one output. Two basic approaches are developed. The desired function is matched at a limited number of positions with the maximum number being seven. Designs are also developed which match the derivatives of the desired function at a single point. The designs were developed with ease of solution and broadness of application as primary considerations.
High-Range Plasticity of Metals Beyond Normal Work-Hardening
Authors: Crane E. V. , Wagner W. S.
Published: May 2019

Metals, plastically worked for mass-production purposes are shown to have a little known and potentially valuable “high” working range, primarily compressive and substantially beyond commonplace practices and physicals. This “high range” lies beyond the point of normal tensile failure. It is distinguished by a steeper or more rapid rate of work-hardening. While some use has been made of it, to advantage, in wire-drawing, rolling, cold extrusion, and shell drawing, inadequate technical data concerning it may be attributed to unfamiliarity with the testing program. To provide pressed-metal engineering with the extended plastic-range data needed for planning operation sequences, a testing technique is outlined, which if not new, is at least unfamiliar and potentially useful until a better method is devised.
Study of Machinability of Metals
Authors: Takeyama H. , Usui E.
Published: May 2019

If the definition of the so-called machinability is simplified, a rather scientific treatment of machinability is possible. The experiment to be described reveals that machinability of a metal in terms of chip formation, which is one of the most important aspects, is closely related to the ratio of the shearing strain to the shearing stress near the fracture point of the shearing-test curve of the metal. The larger the ratio, the poorer the machinability from the viewpoint of chip formation.
Axial, Relative Motion of a Circular Step Bearing
Authors: Licht L.
Published: May 2019

Equations relating the flow of the lubricant and the axial motion of an externally pressurized thrust bearing are developed. The bearing is shown to be stable when the fluid is incompressible.

Expressions for local stiffness and damping coefficients, useful in the evaluation of the dynamic response of the bearing, are given.

An analog computer solution of the equation of motion is compared with the results of the corresponding, small displacement equation.
The Skewed Boundary Layer
Authors: Taylor Edward S.
Published: May 2019

The geometry of the skewed boundary layer is described, and two methods of producing it are discussed. Experimental results show that the form of the usual skewed boundary layer is a thin collateral sublayer under a quasi-collateral outer region. The geometry of separation of a skewed boundary layer is discussed. It is concluded that separation of a skewed boundary layer may differ radically from that of a collateral boundary layer and that separation criteria used for collateral boundary layers may give misleading results when applied to skewed boundary layers. It is concluded that the understanding of the skewed boundary layer can contribute to improved design of turbomachinery.
Stall Prediction in Gas-Turbine Engines
Authors: Lubick Robert J. , Wallner Lewis E.
Published: May 2019

From a study of multistage compressors operating in gas-turbine engines the sequence of events which occur during the stall process was determined. By using this information and stage-characteristic curves, it is shown that the compressor stall limit may be computed for any disturbance.
Correlation of High Temperature Creep and Rupture Data
Authors: Conrad Hans
Published: May 2019

The problem of correlating high temperature creep and rupture data has been considered in light of the most recent theoretical and experimental information. An evaluation of the equations most frequently employed indicates that they all possess one or more major shortcomings. An equation is proposed which is in better agreement with the experimental and theoretical information available. The rupture data for several superalloys and an aluminum alloy are correlated by means of the proposed equation. It is suggested that creep tests with incremental changes in the stress and temperature be investigated as a rapid method for evaluating the constants of the creep and rupture equations.
Comparison of Parameter Methods for Extrapolating High-Temperature Data
Authors: Goldhoff R. M.
Published: May 2019

The use of the controversial and contradictory parameter techniques in correlation of high-temperature stress-rupture data is discussed. They are treated with a view toward their application in extrapolating short-time data to predict working stresses in serviceable heat-resistant alloys. Three parameter methods are compared on a statistical basis for their ability to reproduce the isothermal data on which they are based and in particular the longest time data currently available and usable for this purpose. Comparisons are further made with long-time extrapolations based on direct plotting of test data. The materials chosen for evaluation are alloys S-590, A-286, Nimonic 80A, and 1Cr-1Mo-1/4V steel. It is shown that prediction of long-time working stresses using parameter techniques will generally give better results than can be obtained from long extrapolations on double logarithmic plots. Among the parameters themselves, the Manson-Haferd linear parameter method gave the most reliable extrapolations. However, the results obtained using the Larson-Miller method may be improved considerably if the proper constant is selected for each set of data rather than using C = 20 for all data. For reliable extrapolations all methods require data from tests up to 1000 hr and covering adequate ranges of stress and temperature.
Simulation of Wind, Waves, and Currents During Hurricane Sandy for Planned Assessment of Offshore Wind Turbines
Authors: Kim Eungsoo , Manuel Lance
Published: May 2019

The simulation of wind and wave fields for the evaluation of jacket-supported offshore wind turbines during Hurricane Sandy of 2012 is the focus of this study. For realistic load assessment of offshore wind turbines, it is important that coupled wind, wave, and current fields with appropriate spatial resolution are provided throughout the evolution of the hurricane. A numerical model describing the hurricane track and intensity variation with time is used to generate the coupled wind, wave, and current fields. Time series of turbulent wind fields and coupled wave kinematics are generated using the hurricane simulation output, and a detailed procedure is presented. These coupled wind, wave, and current fields form the inputs for the analysis of a 5-MW offshore wind turbine supported on a jacket platform sited in 50 m of water and assumed located in the path of Hurricane Sandy. The turbine’s and support structure’s performance under the simulated loading conditions is the subject of a separate study.
Acoustic Non-Reciprocity in Lattices With Nonlinearity, Internal Hierarchy, and Asymmetry: Computational Study
Authors: Fronk Matthew D. , Tawfick Sameh , Daraio Chiara , Li Shuangbao , Vakakis Alexander , Leamy Michael J.
Published: May 2019

Reciprocity is a property of linear, time-invariant systems whereby the energy transmission from a source to a receiver is unchanged after exchanging the source and receiver. Nonreciprocity violates this property and can be introduced to systems if time-reversal symmetry and/or parity symmetry is lost. While many studies have induced nonreciprocity by active means, i.e., odd-symmetric external biases or time variation of system properties, considerably less attention has been given to acoustical structures that passively break reciprocity. This study presents a lattice structure with strong stiffness nonlinearities, internal scale hierarchy, and asymmetry that breaks acoustic reciprocity. Macroscopically, the structure exhibits periodicity yet asymmetry exists in its unit cell design. A theoretical study, supported by experimental validation, of a two-scale unit cell has revealed that reciprocity is broken locally, i.e., within a single unit cell of the lattice. In this work, global breaking of reciprocity in the entire lattice structure is theoretically analyzed by studying wave propagation in the periodic arrangement of unit cells. Under both narrowband and broadband excitation, the structure exhibits highly asymmetrical wave propagation, and hence a global breaking of acoustic reciprocity. Interpreting the numerical results for varying impulse amplitude, as well as varying harmonic forcing amplitude and frequency/wavenumber, provides strong evidence that transient resonant capture is the driving force behind the global breaking of reciprocity in the periodic structure. In a companion work, some of the theoretical results presented herein are experimentally validated with a lattice composed of two-scale unit cells under impulsive excitation.
Ballast Water Management Technologies: A Review and Consideration of Future Developments
Authors: Stewart Jon
Published: May 2019

Current Status of Technology

• 10 systems have received Type Approval certificates

• 14 have received IMO final approval

 • a further 3 are expecting final approval at MEPC 60

• 8 others have basic approval

 • A further 7 may receive basic approval at MEPC 60

It is important to note that, not all systems are required to follow the IMO basic and final approval path to Type Approval as outlined in Procedure G9. If the system does not utilize an active substance as a biocide, a separate procedure for testing and verification according to Procedure G8 is undertaken. That said, it is expected that several systems are in the process of obtaining Type Approval in this manner as well, adding to those mentioned above.

Paper published with permission.
IST Management Software for Check Valves, MOVs, and AOVs
Authors: Estep Neal , Sicking Ryan
Published: May 2019

This paper focuses on Inservice Testing (IST) software, in particular software developed by Kalsi Engineering, Inc. (KEI), to assist plant personnel in implementing IST requirements. The requirements in Mandatory Appendices II, III, and IV to ASME’s Operation and Maintenance of Nuclear Power Plants (OM Code) for check-valve condition monitoring, motor-operated valve (MOV) inservice testing, and air-operated valve (AOV) inservice testing, respectively, are identified. Each requirement in Appendix II is mapped to specific functionality in the condition-monitoring software. In addition, methods used in the design-analysis software for design-basis verification, trending of diagnostic test data, and functional margin determination to satisfy the requirements in Appendices III and IV are also described and mapped to specific requirements.

Conditioning-monitoring management database software is designed to comprehensively meet the documentation and trending requirements of Appendix II. The software addresses all program aspects, including valve grouping, program analysis, development of optimization and performance-improvement activities, evaluation of test and inspection intervals, trending and feedback, and corrective maintenance. To achieve this functionality, the condition-monitoring software includes check-valve design information, condition-monitoring activity setup and test history, trending of test parameters, a repository for miscellaneous data, and documentation of expert panel reviews. Database query tools and hard-copy reports are also provided.

The benefit is that this software provides a standardized, central collection point from which plant engineers can effectively manage their Appendix II program without having to develop and maintain a multitude of non-standardized personal spreadsheets or databases. In addition, the software assists in succession planning and minimizes the transition time for new check-valve program owners.

The MOV and AOV design-analysis software determines initial design margin and then uses field test data and associated uncertainties to determine actual setup functional margin. In addition, trending of diagnostic in-service test data is performed to verify that design values are conservative and that the inservice test intervals are appropriate based on projected degradation rate. The benefit of this software is that it assists utility engineers in satisfying the design-basis verification, preservice, and inservice testing requirements in Appendices III and IV in a standardized and comprehensive platform.

Paper published with permission.
Personalized signal-independent beamforming for binaural hearing aids
Authors: Moore Alastair H. , de Haan Jan Mark , Pedersen Michael Syskind , Naylor Patrick A. , Brookes Mike , Jensen Jesper
Published: May 2019

The effect of personalized microphone array calibration on the performance of hearing aid beamformers under noisy reverberant conditions is studied. The study makes use of a new, publicly available, database containing acoustic transfer function measurements from 29 loudspeakers arranged on a sphere to a pair of behind-the-ear hearing aids in a listening room when worn by 27 males, 14 females, and 4 mannequins. Bilateral and binaural beamformers are designed using each participant's hearing aid head-related impulse responses (HAHRIRs). The performance of these personalized beamformers is compared to that of mismatched beamformers, where the HAHRIR used for the design does not belong to the individual for whom performance is measured. The case where the mismatched HAHRIR is that of a mannequin is of particular interest since it represents current practice in commercially available hearing aids. The benefit of personalized beamforming is assessed using an intrusive binaural speech intelligibility metric and in a matrix speech intelligibility test. For binaural beamforming, both measures demonstrate a statistically signficant (p < 0.05) benefit of personalization. The benefit varies substantially between individuals with some predicted to benefit by as much as 1.5 dB.
Correlations of the frequency dependence of the ultrasonic backscatter coefficient with the bone volume fraction and the trabecular thickness in bovine trabecular bone: Application of the binary mixture model
Authors: Lee Kang Il
Published: May 2019

The ultrasonic backscatter coefficient and the exponent n (frequency dependence of the backscatter coefficient) were measured in 24 bovine femoral trabecular bone samples. The binary mixture model for ultrasonic scattering from trabecular bone was applied to predict the variations of the ultrasound parameters with the bone volume fraction (BV/TV) and the trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) in trabecular bone. The backscatter coefficient exhibited significant, positive correlations with the BV/TV (R = 0.82) and the Tb.Th (R = 0.79). In contrast, the exponent n was found to be significantly, negatively correlated with the BV/TV (R = −0.77) and the Tb.Th, (R = −0.71).
The Effects of 10%, 20%, and 30% Velocity Loss Thresholds on Kinetic, Kinematic, and Repetition Characteristics During the Barbell Back Squat
Authors: Weakley Jonathon , Ramirez-Lopez Carlos , McLaren Shaun , Dalton-Barron Nick , Weaving Dan , Jones Ben , Till Kevin , Banyard Harry
Published: May 2019

Purpose: Prescribing resistance training using velocity loss thresholds can enhance exercise quality by mitigating neuromuscular fatigue. As little is known regarding performance during these protocols, we aimed to assess the effects of 10%, 20%, and 30% velocity loss thresholds on kinetic, kinematic, and repetition characteristics in the free-weight back squat. Methods: Using a randomized crossover design, 16 resistance-trained men were recruited to complete 5 sets of the barbell back squat. Lifting load corresponded to a mean concentric velocity (MV) of ∼0.70 m·s−1 (115 [22] kg). Repetitions were performed until a 10%, 20%, or 30% MV loss was attained. Results: Set MV and power output were substantially higher in the 10% protocol (0.66 m·s−1 and 1341 W, respectively), followed by the 20% (0.62 m·s−1 and 1246 W) and 30% protocols (0.59 m·s−1 and 1179 W). There were no substantial changes in MV (−0.01 to −0.02 m·s−1) or power output (−14 to −55 W) across the 5 sets for all protocols, and individual differences in these changes were typically trivial to small. Mean set repetitions were substantially higher in the 30% protocol (7.8), followed by the 20% (6.4) and 10% protocols (4.2). There were small to moderate reductions in repetitions across the 5 sets during all protocols (−39%, −31%, −19%, respectively), and individual differences in these changes were small to very large. Conclusions: Velocity training prescription maintains kinetic and kinematic output across multiple sets of the back squat, with repetition ranges being highly variable. Our findings, therefore, challenge traditional resistance training paradigms (repetition based) and add support to a velocity-based approach.
Assessing Relationships Between Physical Development and Other Indicators of School Readiness Among Preschool Students
Authors: Wright Paul M. , Zittel Lauriece L. , Gipson Tawanda , Williams Crystal
Published: May 2019

Purpose: Physical development is an integral part of a child’s overall development. Evidence suggests that physical development and physical activity are positively correlated with positive academic outcomes in elementary and secondary school students. However, research on physical development among preschool-age children lags behind. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to assess the relationships between physical development and other aspects of development related to school readiness among 3- to 5-year-old children. Method: Teacher ratings of physical, cognitive, language, social–emotional, and literacy development were collected for 172 preschool students. Group differences were assessed using analysis of variance, and relationships among development scales were examined with Pearson correlations. Results: Pearson correlations indicate ratings of physical development are significantly and positively correlated with ratings on the other four development scales. Discussion/Conclusion: Findings support the importance of physical development as an aspect of school readiness. Practical implications and future research are discussed.
Local protein synthesis is a ubiquitous feature of neuronal pre- and postsynaptic compartments
Authors: Hafner Anne-Sophie , Donlin-Asp Paul G. , Leitch Beulah , Herzog Etienne , Schuman Erin M.
Published: May 2019

Local translation in presynaptic terminals

Proteins carry out most of the functions in cells, including neurons, which are one of the most morphologically complex cell types in the body. This poses challenges for how proteins can be supplied to remote regions where connections (synapses) are made with other neurons. One solution to the neuron protein-supply problem involves the local synthesis of proteins from messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules located at or near synapses. Hafner
et al.
used RNA sequencing methods and superresolution microscopy to show that axon terminals contain hundreds of mRNA molecules as well as the machinery needed for protein synthesis. Furthermore, the axon terminals were able to use these components to make proteins that participate in synaptic transmission.

Science
, this issue p.
eaau3644
Identification of a regeneration-organizing cell in the
Xenopus
tail
Authors: Aztekin C. , Hiscock T. W. , Marioni J. C. , Gurdon J. B. , Simons B. D. , Jullien J.
Published: May 2019

A tale of tadpole tail regeneration

Some vertebrates, including some amphibians, show a remarkable, if sometimes restricted, ability to regenerate lost appendages. Aztekin
et al.
compared naturally occurring regeneration-competent and -incompetent
Xenopus laevis
tadpoles using single-cell messenger RNA sequencing. They identified regeneration-organizing cells (ROCs) that could coordinate tail regeneration. Relocation of ROCs from the body to the amputation plane enabled specialized wound epidermis formation and subsequent regeneration. ROCs simultaneously expressed many different ligands that can induce proliferation of different progenitor cell populations. Thus, by signaling to underlying progenitors, ROCs orchestrate the growth of a new appendage.

Science
, this issue p.
653
Two threats to U.S. science
Authors: Alberts Bruce , Narayanamurti Venkatesh
Published: May 2019

Last month, the House Appropriations Committee of the U.S. Congress began drafting its Fiscal Year 2020 funding bill. Among the promising news is the committee's support for a $2 billion increase above Fiscal Year 2019 for the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), the first step in what is likely to be a long and contentious budget process. Why, then, is the cycle of success that the U.S. scientific enterprise has enjoyed since the mid-20th century in jeopardy?
Mesozoic evolution of the eastern Pamir
Authors: Imrecke Daniel B. , Robinson Alexander C. , Owen Lewis A. , Chen Jie , Schoenbohm Lindsay M. , Hedrick Kathryn A. , Lapen Thomas J. , Li Wenqiao , Yuan Zhaode
Published: May 2019

We present field and analytical results from the Tashkurgan and Waqia valleys in the southeastern Pamir that shed new light on the tectonic evolution and terrane architecture of the region. Field mapping of metasedimentary and igneous units along the Tashkurgan and Waqia valleys in the Southeast Pamir, integrated with metamorphic petrology, garnet-biotite thermometry, and zircon U/Pb isotopic analysis, help identify major structures and terrane boundaries in the region, as well as compare structural units across the Miocene Muztaghata gneiss dome. South of the Muztaghata dome, the gently northwest-plunging synformal Torbashi thrust klippe juxtaposes amphibolite facies Triassic Karakul-Mazar terrane schist and gneiss structurally above (1) greenschist facies Triassic Karakul-Mazar terrane metasedimentary rock in the north, and (2) lower-amphibolite facies schist in the south that are interpreted to be Gondwanan-derived crust (Central or South Pamir terrane). Farther south, the Rouluke thrust fault imbricates the Gondwanan crust, placing early Paleozoic schists over Permian marble and slate. Exposure of the Torbashi thrust sheet terminates in the southeast, and with it the surface exposure of the Triassic Karakul-Mazar terrane, leaving the Paleozoic Kunlun terrane juxtaposed directly against Gondwanan terrane crust. Based on lithologic and isotopic similarities of units north and south of the Muztaghata gneiss dome, we document the existence of a regionally extensive thrust nappe that stretched across the northern and eastern Pamir, prior to being cut by Miocene exhumation of the Muztaghata dome. The thrust nappe links the Torbashi thrust in the southeast Pamir with the Tanymas thrust in the northern Pamir, and documents regionally extensive exposure of lithologically continuous units across the northeast Pamir. While timing of emplacement of the Torbashi thrust klippe and displacement on the Rouluke fault to the south is not well constrained, we interpret shortening to be Cretaceous in age based on previously published cooling ages. However, a component of Cenozoic shortening cannot be ruled out.

A key observation from our mapping results is that the surface exposures of the Karakul–Mazar–Songpan Ganzi terrane are not continuous between western Tibet and the Pamir, which indicates tectonic and/or erosional removal, likely sometime in the Mesozoic. Furthermore, our documentation of the Jinsha suture in the southeast Pamir on the eastern side of the Karakoram fault shows deflections of terranes across the Himalayan-Tibetan orogen were not primarily accommodated along discrete, large displacement faults (>400 km) faults. Instead, oroclinal bending of the northern Pamir, and dextral shear along the Pamir margins, may be largely responsible for the northward deflection of terranes.
Effect of spontaneous breathing on umbilical venous blood flow and placental transfusion during delayed cord clamping in preterm lambs
Authors: Brouwer Emma , te Pas Arjan B , Polglase Graeme R , McGillick Erin V , Böhringer Stefan , Crossley Kelly J , Rodgers Karyn , Blank Douglas , Yamaoka Shigeo , Gill Andrew William , Kluckow Martin , Hooper Stuart B
Published: May 2019

Introduction

During delayed umbilical cord clamping, the factors underpinning placental transfusion remain unknown. We hypothesised that reductions in thoracic pressure during inspiration would enhance placental transfusion in spontaneously breathing preterm lambs.

Objective

Investigate the effect of spontaneous breathing on umbilical venous flow and body weight in preterm lambs.

Methods

Pregnant sheep were instrumented at 132–133 days gestational age to measure fetal common umbilical venous, pulmonary and cerebral blood flows as well as arterial and intrapleural (IP) pressures. At delivery, doxapram and caffeine were administered to promote breathing. Lamb body weights were measured continuously and breathing was assessed by IP pressure changes.

Results

In 6 lambs, 491 out of 1117 breaths were analysed for change in body weight. Weight increased in 46.6% and decreased in 47.5% of breaths. An overall mean increase of 0.02±2.5 g per breath was calculated, and no net placental transfusion was observed prior to cord clamping (median difference in body weight 52.3 [−54.9–166.1] g, p=0.418). Umbilical venous (UV) flow transiently decreased with each inspiration, and in some cases ceased, before UV flow normalised during expiration. The reduction in UV flow was positively correlated with the standardised reduction in (IP) pressure, increasing by 109 mL/min for every SD reduction in IP pressure. Thus, the reduction in UV flow was closely related to inspiratory depth.

Conclusions

Spontaneous breathing had no net effect on body weight in preterm lambs at birth. UV blood flow decreased as inspiratory effort increased, possibly due to constriction of the inferior vena cava caused by diaphragmatic contraction, as previously observed in human fetuses.
Incidence of disorders of sexual development in neonates in Ghana: prospective study
Authors: Ameyaw Emmanuel , Asafo-Agyei Serwah Bonsu , Hughes Ieuan A , Zacharin Margaret , Chanoine Jean-Pierre
Published: May 2019

Objective

The incidence of disorders of sexual development (DSD) is unknown in sub-Saharan Africa. We describe the characteristics and incidence of DSD in a cohort of infants born in Ghana.

Design

Trained research assistants performed systematic genital examination at birth. All infants with suspected abnormal genitalia were further examined by a paediatric endocrinologist.

Setting

Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.

Patients

Consecutive infants born in a single centre over a 1-year period (May 2014 to April 2015).

Main outcome measures

Incidence of DSD. Micropenis was defined as a stretched length <2.1 cm and clitoromegaly as a clitoral length >8.6 mm.

Results

We examined 9255 infants (93% of all live births) within 72 hours of birth. Twenty-six neonates had a DSD. Nineteen infants had DSD without genital ambiguity: isolated micropenis (n=2), hypospadias (n=7), cryptorchidism (n=4) and clitoromegaly (n=6). Seven infants had DSD with ambiguity: clitoromegaly with a uterus on ultrasound and elevated 17-hydoxyprogesterone, suggesting XX DSD due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)(n=4) and micropenis, hypospadias and gonads in a bifid scrotum or in the inguinal region, consistent with XY DSD (n=3).

Conclusion

The incidence of atypical genitalia was 28/10,000 (95% CI 17/10 000 to 39/10 000) live births. The incidence of CAH was 4.3/10 000 (95% CI 1.2/10 000 to 11.1/10 000) and was strongly associated with consanguinity.
Abdominal tuberculosis in a spigelian hernia
Authors: Aalling Lisa , Penninga Luit
Published: May 2019

Abdominal tuberculosis is a common form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Often it is difficult to diagnose due to vague symptoms and lack of clinical findings. Spigelian hernia is a rare type of hernia located in the semilunar fascia of the abdominal rectus muscular sheath. We report on a 19-year-old Greenlandic Inuit man with a spigelian hernia as the primary presentation of abdominal tuberculosis. Abdominal tuberculosis presenting with a spigelian hernia is extremely rare, and the case illustrates that tuberculosis may present in myriad ways. The incidence of tuberculosis in Greenland is among one of the highest in the world, and we also review the history and incidence of tuberculosis in this Arctic country.
Current and emerging pharmaceutical interventions for myopia
Authors: Vutipongsatorn Kritchai , Yokoi Tae , Ohno-Matsui Kyoko
Published: May 2019

Myopia is a major cause of visual impairment. Its prevalence is growing steadily, especially in East Asia. Despite the immense disease and economic burden, there are currently no Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs for myopia. This review aims to summarise pharmaceutical interventions of myopia at clinical and preclinical stages in the last decade and discuss challenges for preclinical myopia drugs to progress to clinical trials. Atropine and oral 7-methylxanthine are shown to reduce myopia progression in human studies. The former has been extensively studied and is arguably the most successful medication. However, it has side effects and trials on low-dose atropine are ongoing. Other pharmaceutical agents being investigated at a clinical trial level include ketorolac tromethamine, oral riboflavin and BHVI2 (an experimental drug). Since the pathophysiology of myopia is not fully elucidated, numerous drugs have been tested at the preclinical stage and can be broadly categorised based on the proposed mechanisms of myopisation, namely antimuscarinic, dopaminergic, anti-inflammatory and more. However, several agents were injected intravitreally or subconjunctivally, hindering their progress to human trials. Furthermore, with atropine being the most successful medication available, future preclinical interventions should be studied in combination with atropine to optimise the treatment of myopia.