bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Empirical Study of Nigeria’s Built Heritage: The Lagos National Arts Theatre and Stadium
Authors: Onwuanyi N. , Oyetunji A. K. , Ogungbenro M. T.
Published: August 2019

Recognition of built heritage and its preservation are issues of importance to communities and nations for reasons such as learning, identity, tourism among others. However, knowledge of what constitutes built heritage is essential if it is to be properly assessed. This paper investigates what qualities define built heritage in Nigeria using as case studies two well-known national assets: the National Stadium and National Arts Theatre in Lagos. Empirical data for the study are obtained from both physical inspection and public opinion. A survey questionnaire was purposely administered on randomly selected patrons of each of the facilities. Findings are that the two facilities possess significance as built heritage, but are neglected, moribund and not officially so acknowledged. Given plans to dispose of, rather than restore and preserve these facilities, the paper highlights heritage consciousness by drawing attention to the nature and defining characteristics of Nigeria’s built heritage, the utter neglect of these two examples and the need to reverse the situation. The nexus between built heritage and the built environment is highlighted as further justification for restoring these assets being important components of the built environment of Lagos and, therefore, the built heritage of Nigeria.
Best-Fit Probability Distribution Model for Rainfall Frequency Analysis of Three Cities in South Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Agbonaye A. I. , Izinyon O. C.
Published: August 2019

Rainfall frequency analysis is the estimation of how often rainfall of specified magnitude will occur. Such analyses are helpful in defining policies relating to water resources management. It serves as the source of data for flood hazard mitigation and the design of hydraulic structures aimed at reducing losses due to floods action. In this study rainfall frequency analysis for three (3) cities in South Eastern Nigeria were carried out using annual maximum series of daily rainfall data for the stations. The objective of the study was to select the probability distribution model from among six commonly used probability distribution models namely: Generalized Extreme value distribution (GEV), Extreme value type I distribution (EVI), Generalized Pareto distribution (GPA), Pearson Type III (PIII), log Normal (LN) and Log Pearson Type III (LP111) distributions. These distributions were applied to annual maximum series of daily precipitation data at each station using the parameters of the distributions estimated by the method of moments. The best fit probability distribution model at each location was selected based on the results of seven goodness of fit tests entry: root mean square error (RMSE), relative root mean square error (RRMSE), mean absolute deviation index (MADI) and probability plot correlation coefficient (PPCC), Maximum Absolute Error (MAE), Chi square test and D- Index and a scoring and ranking scheme. Our results indicate that the best fit probability distribution model at all study locations is GEV and this was used to forecast rainfall return values for the stations for return periods of between 5years and 500years. The values obtained are useful for planning, design and management of hydraulic structures for flood mitigation and prevention of flood damage at the location.
Students Can Exhibit Discretionary Responding to Texts Social Media Messages During Class: Fact or Fiction?
Authors: Arslantas Fatma , Wood Eileen , Boersen Brooke , Pulla Victoria , Ferrier Monika
Published: August 2019

Terms such as ‘compulsion’ and ‘addiction’ are often used when describing young adults’ response behaviors regarding texts and messages. Purpose of the Research: The present study documents response patterns for texts and messages in a higher education classroom context. Both the number of texts and messages responded to and the time taken between receipt and response were examined. These measures, as well as perceptions about multitasking and learning, were examined with respect to performance for lecture content. Students were assigned to either a texting or social media message condition. Within each of these conditions, students were either instructed to respond to texts/messages immediately or at their own discretion. Principal Results: Consistent with characterizations of habits/compulsions, the majority of participants in all conditions responded to most of the individual texts/messages. In no condition did all participants respond to all of the texts/messages. Students in the discretionary texting condition took longer to reply to texts/messages than those in the immediate social media condition for the vast majority of texts/messages received. Higher performance scores were found for test items not associated with the arrival of texts/messages. Students acknowledged some potential for multitasking to impact learning, however, these perceptions were not related to the volume or timing of text/message responses. Major Conclusions: This study identifies that students responding to texts/messages in the educational context is more complex than a simple habitual behaviour and that the pervasiveness may make the behavior a challenge even in live lecture contexts.
The Relationships Among Affective Factors in Learning EFL: A Study of the Saudi Setting
Authors: Zayed Jihan , Al-Ghamdi Huda
Published: August 2019

Adopting a mixed-method design, the current study attempted to specify the relationships among four affective factors (i.e., motivation, attitudes, self-confidence, and anxiety) involved in learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL). Seventy-three students – from Administration and Humanities College, Mustaqbal University and Jubail University College, KSA – responded to a questionnaire of two parts: Part I and Part II, which yielded quantitative data. Qualitative data were generated through the analysis of Part I results to prove that there was no relationship between Saudi students’ EFL proficiency and their awareness of the affective factors involved in learning it. Findings of Part II confirmed the interrelatedness among the four affective factors in the learning process in general, except for self-confidence did not significantly correlate with anxiety; the former got the highest mean (48.79) while the latter got the lowest (34.93). Calculating Standard Multiple Regression for the four affective factors, the study concluded giving four arithmetic equations of the predictive relationships among these factors. In the Saudi setting, the current study confirmed that anxiety does not affect learners with high motivation and good attitudes to a great extent. Besides, it does not affect self-confident learners at all.
Corrosion Behavior of Welded Joints of X70 Pipeline Steel Produced by High-frequency Welding
Authors: Klymenko Anatolii , Kovalenko Svetlana , Kuzmenko Vitalii , Kovalenko Yurii
Published: August 2019

Corrosion behavior of welded joints of steel pipe category X70 produced by high-frequency welding, in different conditions, in which it is possible to initiate stress-corrosion cracking, hydrogen or sulfide cracking, was investigated. According to the results of electrochemical researches, the kinetic parameters of the cathode and anode processes on the surface of the welded joint of pipe in the investigated solutions are determined. Corrosion resistance of the welded joint HFW-pipe is similar to corrosion resistance of the base metal.
Genetic Variability and Inter-relatedness of Agronomic Traits of Single Cross Hybrid Maize in Contrasting Soil Nitrogen-nutritional Conditions
Authors: Ogunniyan Dotun Joseph , O. Olakojo Samuel , K. Ojo David
Published: August 2019

Background: Lowering the nitrogen demand is the most cost effective and sustainable option to increase grain yield of maize in poor fertility soil.

Aim: This study was conducted to estimate the variability and inter-traits’ association of white and yellow hybrid maize in soil nitrogen-nutritional stress and optimal conditions.

Materials and Methods: 150 white and 66 yellow single cross hybrid maize were evaluated in contrasting soil (stress and optimal) N conditions in Ibadan in 2014 and 2015. The trial for the white maize was laid out in 19 × 8 lattice design while the yellow maize was experimented in randomized complete block design. Each trial was replicated three times. Data were collected on days to anthesis (DTA), days to silking (DTS), plant height (PH), ear height (EH), anthesis-silking-interval (ASI) and grain yield (GY) were estimated while leaf senescence (LS), plant aspect (PASP) and ear aspect (EASP) were scored. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance while variances and broad sense heritability were calculated and rated.

Results: Greater variability existed among white maize than the yellow maize for the traits. Inheritance of the traits can be predicted in optimal N than stress condition. Additive genes action was responsible for inheritance of DTA and DTS while both additive and non-additive control the GY, PH, EH and LS of the white maize in both N conditions. For yellow maize, the DTA and DTS were controlled by additive genes action in both N conditions. The GY, ASI, PH, EH and LS were governed by both additive and non-additive genes actions in N stress condition. Additive genes action is responsible for inheritance of PH and EH while both additive and non-additive actions govern inheritance of GY, ASI and LS in optimal condition. The GY had positive relationship with the DTA, DTS and LS in both N conditions for the white maize while the GY positively correlated with PH, EH and LS in N stress, but with ASI only in optimal condition for the yellow maize.

Conclusion: Grain yield, flowering, height and leaf senescence can be used in selecting maize for nitrogen-use-efficiency.
Stakeholders’ View of Sustainability of Public Water Supply Schemes in a Rural Area: The Case of Muyuka Subdivision, Cameroon
Authors: Mbah Finley , Nkenyi Rene , Fru Delvis
Published: August 2019

Background and Aim: It is certain that without readily available water in sufficient quantity, and free of pathogens, man's progress is tremendously hindered. In Muyuka, Cameroon, though there exist public taps littered “here and there”, the population most often find themselves fetching water from nearby streams raising to surface the question of sustainability of the available water systems which was the aim of this study.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional, analytic study targeting household heads and water committee members in the rural communities of Muyuka. Three communities were randomly selected and from each, five quarters were randomly selected. In the quarters, convenience sampling technique was used for the household heads while snowball sampling technique was used to get the water committee members. An interviewer administered questionnaire was used and data analyzed using R.

Results: A total of 371 persons participated in the study. The average number of years lived in the community was 22.08 (SD=10.61) and ranged from 10 to 66. Only 13.00% of the participant didn’t see the water system as challenging while 81.5% finds it to be severely problematic. Utilization of water averaged far less than the 50L/person/day and the situation worsened as the household size increased. Close to half (49.6%) of participants did not participate at any stage in the development of the water system. According to the participants, water systems breaks down averagely 3 times in a year and last for about 67 days before being repaired. Water committee members reported difficulties in accessing spare parts and inadequacy in their training.  

Conclusion: Frequent breakdown of the water schemes compounded by the unavailability of spare parts and hence delays in repairs, and in expansion, user dissatisfaction and unwillingness to pay their bills; inadequacy in training of water committee members, has resulted in poor sustainability of the water system.
Molecular Screening of Fungal Isolates of Palm Oil from South Eastern Nigeria for Aflatoxin and Ochratoxin Biosynthetic Genes Using Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (mPCR)
Authors: Nwachukwu I. N. , Amadi E. S. , Ogwo U. C. , Umeh S. I. , Opurum C. C. , Chinakwe E. C. , Nwaogwugu N. U. , Ochiagha I. E. , Ogbuagu H. D. , Ujowundu F. N.
Published: August 2019

In Nigeria and many other developing countries of the world, the incidence of mycotoxin- contamination of foods and food products has attracted attention and stirred a lot of concern for food safety. This work aims at detection of aflatoxigenic and ochratoxigenic synthetic genes from fungal isolates of palm oil as a veritable means for the evaluation of foods for possible mycotoxin contamination.  In this study, fungal isolates from palm oil samples collected from the five states of South-east geopolitical zone in Nigeria were screened for  aflatoxin and ochratoxin biosynthetic genes using Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (mPCR). The assay relied on three sets of primers that amplify aflatoxgenic Aspergillus, ochratoxigenic Aspergillus and Penicillium species under optimized PCR conditions. Optimum multiplex PCR assay was standardized for simultaneous detection of toxigenic Aspergillus and ochratoxin producing Penicillium species targeting AflR, AflS and pks genes involved in aflatoxin and ochratoxin metabolic pathways respectively. AflR primer pair gave specific amplification for aflatoxigenic A. flavus but did not give amplification for A. niger and P. chrysogenum. While AflS and pks gave amplification for only aflatoxigenic and ochratoxigenic A. niger and P. chrysogenum. In the evaluation and monitoring of mycotoxin-producing fungi during the processing of food and feed commodities, Multiplex PCR approach could be a veritable tool to supplement the conventional analytical techniques.
Construction of a sp3/sp2 Carbon Interface in 3D N‐Doped Nanocarbons for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Gao Jian , Wang Yun , Wu Haihua , Liu Xi , Wang Leilei , Yu Qiaolin , Li Aowen , Wang Hong , Song Chuqiao , Gao Zirui , Peng Mi , Zhang Mengtao , Ma Na , Wang Jiaou , Zhou Wu , Wang Guoxiong , Yin Zhen , Ma Ding
Published: August 2019

The development of highly efficient metal‐free carbon electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is one very promising strategy for the exploitation and commercialization of renewable and clean energy, but this still remains a significant challenge. Herein, we demonstrate a facile approach to prepare three‐dimensional (3D) N‐doped carbon with a sp3/sp2 carbon interface derived from ionic liquids via a simple pyrolysis process. The tunable hybrid sp3 and sp2 carbon composition and pore structures stem from the transformation of ionic liquids to polymerized organics and introduction of a Co metal salt. Through tuning both composition and pores, the 3D N‐doped nanocarbon with a high sp3/sp2 carbon ratio on the surface exhibits a superior electrocatalytic performance for the ORR compared to that of the commercial Pt/C in Zn–air batteries. Density functional theory calculations suggest that the improved ORR performance can be ascribed to the existence of N dopants at the sp3/sp2 carbon interface, which can lower the theoretical overpotential of the ORR.
New Specimen Sheds Light on the Anatomy and Taxonomy of the Early Late Triassic Dinosauriforms from the Chañares Formation, NW Argentina
Authors: Ezcurra Martín D. , Nesbitt Sterling J. , Fiorelli Lucas E. , Desojo Julia B.
Published: August 2019

The lower Carnian levels of the Chañares Formation (Ischigualasto‐Villa Unión Basin, La Rioja Province) have yielded some of the most informative dinosaur precursor species known so far. However, these species are based on partial skeletons that in several cases hamper the comparison between them because of the absence of overlapping bones. This has generated a contentious debate during the last 20 years about the synonymy between two of these species, Lewisuchus admixtus and Pseudolagosuchus major. Here, we describe a new dinosauriform partial skeleton (CRILAR‐Pv 552) recently collected in the Chañares Formation that preserves previously unknown anatomical regions for the dinosaur precursors of this unit (e.g., premaxilla, inner ear, anterior zeugopodium) and allows comparisons with other dinosauriform specimens. CRILAR‐Pv 552 is referred to Lewisuchus admixtus because it possesses a proportionally large skull, a laterally projected, shelf‐like ridge on the jugal, and recurved, finely serrated middle–posterior maxillary and dentary teeth ankylosed to the bone, and the absence of a coracoid foramen. The new specimen preserves a dorsally bowed dentary with a lateroventral shelf that is identical to a dentary associated with the holotype of Lewisuchus admixtus. Additionally, the morphology of the new specimen is completely congruent with that of specimens of Pseudolagosuchus major, bolstering the hypothesis that the latter species is a subjective junior synonym of Lewisuchus admixtus. A preliminary phylogenetic analysis with updated scorings for Lewisuchus admixtus found this species at the base of Silesauridae. Anat Rec, 303:1393–1438, 2020. © 2019 American Association for Anatomy
Air dissection of the spaces of the head and neck: A new teaching and dissection method
Authors: Iwanaga Joe , Watanabe Koichi , Anand Mahindra Kumar , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: August 2019

Our goal was to evaluate a new air dissection technique for the spaces of the head and neck using fresh‐frozen cadavers. Eight sides from four fresh‐frozen Caucasian cadavers were used in this study. Compressed air was initially placed into the pterygomandibular space while simultaneously observing the spaces of the head and neck. Subsequently, the pterygomandibular space on the contralateral side of the specimen was insufflated and observations made. For these methods, simultaneous observation of mediastina and lungs was made using intrathoracic endoscopy. On all sides, the buccal, submental, sublingual, parotid, parapharyngeal, and retropharyngeal spaces were insufflated on both ipsilateral and contralateral sides. Deviation of the larynx and trachea was observed externally and deviation of the mediastinum and lungs via intrathoracic endoscopy. We introduced air dissection into spaces of the head and neck. This new technique might help students, teachers, dentists, medical doctors, and other healthcare providers to better understand the three‐dimensional anatomy of the spaces of the head and neck and their communicating pathways. Clin. Anat. 33:207–213, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Arterial Anatomy of the Anterior Abdominal Wall: Evidence‐Based Safe Sites for Instrumentation Based on Radiological Analysis of 100 Patients
Authors: Bowness James , Seeley Jonathan , Varsou Ourania , McKinnie Angela , Zealley Ian , McLeod Graeme , Grant Calum
Published: August 2019

Multiple medical interventions require percutaneous instrumentation of the anterior abdominal wall, all of which carry a potential for vascular trauma. We assessed the presence, position, and size of the anterior abdominal wall superior and inferior (deep) epigastric arteries to determine the safest site with respect to vascular anatomy of the rectus sheath. In a review of 100 arterial phase, contrast‐enhanced abdominal computed tomography scans, anterior abdominal wall arteries were assessed bilaterally at three axial planes: transpyloric, umbilicus, and anterior superior iliac spine (ASIS). The mean age of patients was 69.2 years (SD ± 15), with 62 male and 38 female. An artery was visible least frequently at the transpyloric plane (5%), compared with the umbilicus (72–79%) and ASIS (93–96%), on the left (χ2(4) = 207.272; P < 0.001) and right (χ2(4) = 198.553; P < 0.001), with a moderate strength association (Cramer's V = 0.588 (left) and 0.575 (right)). The arteries were most commonly observed within the rectus abdominis muscle at the level of the umbilicus and ASIS on both sides (62–68%). The inferior epigastric artery was observed to be larger in diameter, start more laterally, and move medially as it travelled superiorly. These data suggest that the safest site to instrument the rectus sheath, with respect to vascular anatomy, is at the transpyloric plane. This information on anatomical variation of the anterior abdominal wall vasculature may be of particular interest to anesthetists performing rectus sheath block and surgeons during laparoscopic port insertion. Clin. Anat. 33:350–354, 2020. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
From Immobilization to Catalyst Use: A Complete Continuous‐Flow Approach Towards the Use of Immobilized Organocatalysts
Authors: de Oliveira Pedro H. R. , da S. Santos Bruno M. , Leão Raquel A. C. , Miranda Leandro S. M. , San Gil Rosane A. S. , de Souza Rodrigo O. M. A. , Finelli Fernanda G.
Published: August 2019

The combination of chiral supported‐organocatalysts and flow chemistry promotes the sustainable production of enantioenriched compounds providing a very powerful tool for chemical and pharmaceutical industries. However, the rapid deactivation of these catalysts in heterogeneous asymmetric reactions has been limiting the expansion of the area. In this work we report for the first time the advantages of synthesizing, immobilizing, and using a silica‐supported organocatalyst under a complete continuous‐flow approach, showing the impact of this method on the morphology, structure and lifetime of the organocatalyst. The first generation MacMillan's organocatalyst was prepared from L‐phenylalanine and immobilized in silica through a carbamate linkage under batch and continuous‐flow conditions. We also evaluated the performance of both batch and continuous‐flow organocatalysts in the Diels‐Alder reaction for proof of concept.
Solution‐Processable Unsymmetrical Triarylamines: Towards High Mobility and ON/OFF Ratio in Bottom‐Gated OFETs
Authors: Dheepika Ramachandran , Mohamed Imran Predhanekar , Bhuvanesh Nattamai S. P. , Nagarajan Samuthira
Published: August 2019

Self‐assembly of organic small molecules into an ordered thin film has been the key strategy towards efficient charge transport for organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs). Solution processing is a feasible and economic way to enhance pi–pi interaction. Herein, nitrile‐substituted unsymmetrical triarylamines for OFET applications with high mobility are reported. The compounds were constructed by Suzuki cross‐coupling reactions under inert conditions. The HOMO level of about 5.3 eV indicates good hole‐transporting ability. OFETs were assembled in bottom‐gate, top‐contact architecture. Devices fabricated from a binary solvent system exhibited excellent p‐channel characteristics, with impressively high charge‐carrier mobility of up to 2.58 cm2 V−1 s−1 and ION/OFF current ratios of 106–107. SEM and AFM analysis showed the efficient molecular self‐assembly attained by the simple and effective solvent‐engineering method. Theoretical insights obtained by DFT calculations supported by single‐crystal structures showed that the crystalline nature and packing modes of these compounds ensure high mobility. The results prove that these compounds have great potential for use in numerous electronic applications, such as sensors and logic switches.
Anosognosia and default mode subnetwork dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Antoine Nicolas , Bahri Mohamed A. , Bastin Christine , Collette Fabienne , Phillips Christophe , Balteau Evelyne , Genon Sarah , Salmon Eric
Published: August 2019

Research on the neural correlates of anosognosia in Alzheimer's disease varied according to methods and objectives: they compared different measures, used diverse neuroimaging modalities, explored connectivity between brain networks, addressed the role of specific brain regions or tried to give support to theoretical models of unawareness. We used resting‐state fMRI connectivity with two different seed regions and two measures of anosognosia in different patient samples to investigate consistent modifications of default mode subnetworks and we aligned the results with the Cognitive Awareness Model. In a first study, patients and their relatives were presented with the Memory Awareness Rating Scale. Anosognosia was measured as a patient‐relative discrepancy score and connectivity was investigated with a parahippocampal seed. In a second study, anosognosia was measured in patients with brain amyloid (taken as a disease biomarker) by comparing self‐reported rating with memory performance, and connectivity was examined with a hippocampal seed. In both studies, anosognosia was consistently related to disconnection within the medial temporal subsystem of the default mode network, subserving episodic memory processes. Importantly, scores were also related to disconnection between the medial temporal and both the core subsystem (participating to self‐reflection) and the dorsomedial subsystem of the default mode network (the middle temporal gyrus that might subserve a personal database in the second study). We suggest that disparity in connectivity within and between subsystems of the default mode network may reflect impaired functioning of pathways in cognitive models of awareness.
Biocompatibility of (Ba,Ca)(Zr,Ti)O3 piezoelectric ceramics for bone replacement materials
Authors: Poon Kara K. , Wurm Matthias C. , Evans Donald M. , Einarsrud Mari‐Ann , Lutz Rainer , Glaum Julia
Published: August 2019

Total joint replacement implants are generally designed to physically mimic the biological environment to ensure compatibility with the host tissue. However, implant instability exposes patients to long recovery periods, high risk for revision surgeries, and high expenses. Introducing electrical stimulation to the implant site to accelerate healing is promising, but the cumbersome nature of wired devices is detrimental to the implant design. We propose a novel strategy to stimulate cells at the implant site by utilizing piezoelectric ceramics as electrical stimulation sources. The inherent ability of these materials to form electric surface potentials under mechanical load allows them to act as internal power sources. This characteristic is commonly exploited in non‐biomedical applications such as transducers or sensors. We investigate calcium/zirconium‐doped barium titanate (BCZT) ceramics in an in vitro environment to determine their potential as implant materials. BCZT exhibits low cytotoxicity with human osteoblast and endothelial cells as well as high piezoelectric responses. Microstructural adaptation was identified as a route for optimizing piezoelectric behavior. Our results show that BCZT is a promising system for biomedical applications. Its characteristic ability to autonomously generate electric surface potentials opens the possibility to functionalize existing bone replacement implant designs to improve implant ingrowth and long‐term stability.
Influence of Trigonella foenum graecum seed extract as root canal irrigation agent on root surfaces: A scanning electron microscope/energy dispersive X‐ray analysis study
Authors: Tosun Samet , Karataslioglu Emrah
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this in vitro study was to investigate the effect of Trigonella foenum graecum seed extract (TFGSE) as a root canal irrigation agent on the surface of instrumented root canals and on changes in the mineral contents of the root dentin. A total of 90 extracted human mature maxillary central incisor teeth with a single root and without root resorption were selected. The specimens were subdivided into five groups according to irrigation protocol groups G0: distilled water (n = 15): G1: Sodium hypochlorite (5.25% NaOCl); G2: 1% TFGSE G3: NaOCl +17% EDTA (3 min); G4: NaOCl+1% TFGSE; G5: 1% TFGSE +17% EDTA. All the roots were sectioned longitudinally into two halves and examined under scanning electron microscope/energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (SEM/EDX) to assess changes in the mineral content of the tooth. Smear layer removal from root canals was evaluated with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal–Wallis test. The most effective irrigation protocols in removing smear layer occurred with TFGSE and NaOCl, both with rinsing with 17% EDTA. TFGSE was more effective than NaOCl for removing the smear layer. The results showed the ability of 1% TFGSE to remove the smear layer from the root canals. TFGSE is a promising alternative irrigation agent for root canals.
Review of Animal Models of Comorbidities in Fracture‐Healing Research
Authors: Haffner‐Luntzer Melanie , Hankenson Kurt D. , Ignatius Anita , Pfeifer Roman , Khader Basel A. , Hildebrand Frank , van Griensven Martijn , Pape Hans‐Christoph , Lehmicke Michael
Published: August 2019

There is clinical evidence that patient‐specific comorbidities like osteoporosis, concomitant tissue injury, and ischemia may strongly interfere with bone regeneration. However, underlying mechanisms are still unclear. To study these mechanisms in detail, appropriate animal models are needed. For decades, bone healing has been studied in large animals, including dogs, rabbits, pigs, or sheep. However, large animal models display a limited ability to study molecular pathways and cellular functions. Therefore in recent years, mice and rats have become increasingly popular as a model organism for fracture healing research due to the availability of molecular analysis tools and transgenic models. Both large and small animals can be used to study comorbidities and risk factors, modelling the human clinical situation. However, attention has to be paid when choosing an appropriate model due to species differences between large animals, rodents, and humans. This review focuses on large and small animal models for the common comorbidities ischemic injury/reduced vascularization, osteoporosis, and polytrauma, and critically discusses the translational and molecular aspects of these models. Here, we review material which was presented at the workshop “Animal Models of Comorbidities in Fracture Healing Research” at the 2019 ORS Annual Meeting in Austin Texas. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:2491–2498, 2019
SYNGAP1 mutations: Clinical, genetic, and pathophysiological features
Authors: Agarwal Mudit , Johnston Michael V. , Stafstrom Carl E.
Published: August 2019

SYNGAP1 is a gene that encodes the cytosolic protein SYNGAP1 (SYNaptic GTPase Activating Protein), an essential component of the postsynaptic density at excitatory glutamatergic neurons. SYNGAP1 plays critical roles in synaptic development, structure, function, and plasticity. Mutations in SYNGAP1 result in a neurodevelopmental disorder termed Mental retardation‐type 5 (MRD5, OMIM #612621) with a phenotype consisting of intellectual disability, motor impairments, and epilepsy, attesting to the importance of this protein for normal brain development. Here we review the clinical and pathophysiological aspects of SYNGAP1 mutations with a focus on their effect on synaptogenesis, neural circuit function, and cellular plasticity. We conclude by comparing the molecular pathogenesis of SYNGAP1 mutations with those of another neurodevelopmental disorder that affects dendritic function and cellular plasticity, fragile X syndrome. Insights into the molecular similarities and differences underlying these disorders could lead to rationale therapy development.
The first hydride-Meisenheimer adduct of electron-deficient 3-nitronaphthalimide: application to colorimetric borohydride determination
Authors: Choi Myung Gil , Kim Na Yeong , Lee Yu Jeong , Ahn Sangdoo , Chang Suk-Kyu
Published: August 2019

The first hydride-Meisenheimer adduct of electron-deficient 3-nitronaphthalimide was prepared, and the adduct formation was applied to the colorimetric borohydride assay.
Polyphenol-based nanoplatform for MRI/PET dual-modality imaging guided effective combination chemotherapy
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Sang Wei , Yang Zhen , Shen Zheyu , Wang Zhantong , Jacobson Orit , Chen Yundai , Wang Yong , Shao Mingyan , Niu Gang , Dai Yunlu , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: August 2019

A smart nanoplatform with doxorubicin (DOX) and simvastatin (SV) was fabricated by encapsulating both drugs in a polyphenol-based polymer for chemotherapy and MRI/PET imaging.
Revisiting the effects of omitting aspirin in combined antithrombotic therapies for atrial fibrillation and acute coronary syndromes or percutaneous coronary interventions: meta-analysis of pooled data from the PIONEER AF-PCI, RE-DUAL PCI, and AUGUSTUS trials
Authors: Potpara Tatjana S , Mujovic Nebojsa , Proietti Marco , Dagres Nikolaos , Hindricks Gerhard , Collet Jean-Phillipe , Valgimigli Marco , Heidbuchel Hein , Lip Gregory Y H
Published: August 2019

Aims

Recently, three randomized trials reported that dual antithrombotic treatments (DATs) including non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) and a P2Y12 inhibitor without aspirin were associated with significantly less bleeding than vitamin K antagonist (VKA)-based triple antithrombotic therapy (TAT) in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We conducted an analysis of pooled data from these trials.

Methods and results

A meta-analysis of the PIONEER AF-PCI, RE-DUAL PCI, and AUGUSTUS trials considering major bleeding [International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH) and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction], clinically relevant non-major bleeding, all-cause/cardiovascular death, stroke, myocardial infarction (MI), and stent thrombosis. Treatment effect is reported as odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval. Among 9463 patients (53% with ACS), DAT regimens were associated with significantly less bleeding than TAT (OR 0.598, 0.491 −0.727; P < 0.001 for ISTH major bleeding), as were NOAC-based vs. VKA-based regimens (OR 0.577, 0.477 −0.698; P < 0.001). Stroke and mortality rates were similar, but there was statistically non-significant trend towards greater risk of MI (OR 1.211, 0.955 −1.535; P = 0.115) and significantly higher risk for stent thrombosis (OR 1.672, 1.022 −2.733, P = 0.041) with DAT vs. TAT (but not NOAC- vs. VKA-based regimens). This was mainly driven by Dabigatran 110 mg; the trends were lower with full-dose NOAC or Rivaroxaban 15 mg-based DATs.

Conclusion

Our findings support the use of full-dose NOAC (Apixaban 5 mg, Dabigatran 150 mg) or Rivaroxaban 15 mg-based treatments in most AF patients with ACS or undergoing PCI. Notwithstanding the better safety of DAT, an initial course of NOAC-based TAT may be desirable in most AF patients.
Tau Phosphorylation and Aggregation in the Developing Human Brain
Authors: Hefti Marco M , Kim SoongHo , Bell Aaron J , Betters Ryan K , Fiock Kimberly L , Iida Megan A , Smalley Martin E , Farrell Kurt , Fowkes Mary E , Crary John F
Published: August 2019

Tau hyperphosphorylation, mostly at serine (Ser) or threonine (Thr) residues, plays a key role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease (AD) and other tauopathies. Rodent studies show similar hyperphosphorylation in the developing brain, which may be involved in regulating axonal growth and plasticity, but detailed human studies are lacking. Here, we examine tau phosphorylation by immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting in human fetal and adult autopsy brain tissue. Of the 20 cases with sufficient tissue preservation, 18 (90%) showed positive staining for S214 (pSer214), with the majority also positive for CP13 (pSer202), and PHF-1 (pSer396/pSer404). AT8 (pSer202/pThr205) and RZ3 (pThr231) were largely negative while PG5 (pSer409) was negative in all cases. Immunoblotting showed tau monomers with a similar staining pattern. We also observed phospho-tau aggregates in the fetal molecular layer, staining positively for S214, CP13, and PHF1 and negative for thioflavin S. These corresponded to high-molecular weight (∼150 kD) bands seen on Western blots probed with S214, PHF1, and PG5. We therefore conclude that fetal phosphorylation overlaps with AD in some residues, while others (e.g. T231, S409) appear to be unique to AD, and that tau is capable of forming nontoxic aggregates in the developing brain. These findings suggest that the fetal brain is resilient to formation of toxic aggregates, the mechanism for which may yield insights into the pathogenesis of tau aggregation and toxicity in the aging brain.
Formation of CO+ by radiative association
Authors: Zámečníková Martina , Soldán Pavel , Gustafsson Magnus , Nyman Gunnar
Published: August 2019

We theoretically estimate formation rate coefficients for CO+ through the radiative association of C+(2P) with O(3P). In 1989, Petuchowski et al. claimed radiative association to be the most important route for CO+ formation in SN 1987A. In 1990, Dalgarno, Du and You challenged this claim. Therefore, in this study, we improve previous estimates of the radiative association rate coefficients for forming CO+ from C+(2P) and O(3P). To do this, we perform quantum mechanically based perturbation theory calculations as well as semiclassical calculations, which are combined with Breit–Wigner theory in order to add the effect of shape resonances. We explicitly include four electronic transitions. The required potential energy and transition dipole-moment curves are obtained through large basis set multireference configuration interaction electronic structure calculations. We report cross-sections and from these we obtain rate coefficients in the range of 10 –10 000 K, finding that the CO+ formation rate coefficient is larger than the previous estimate by Dalgarno et al. Still our results support their claim that in SN 1987A, CO is mainly formed through radiative association and not through the charge transfer reaction CO+ + O → CO + O+ as earlier suggested by Petuchowski et al.
Bone Marrow Aspiration and Biopsy Performed by RNs: A Review of Clinical Practice
Authors: Draganski Eryn , Deason Trisha , Craig Fiona E
Published: August 2019

Background: At our institution, RNs have performed bone marrow aspiration and biopsy procedures for more than 10 years. A recent review of our institutional policies and practices regarding RN-performed bone marrow procedures was intended to ensure that we were using a safe and evidence-based approach and prompted this program evaluation.

Methods: We conducted a literature search and review of our institutional policies and practices regarding RN-performed bone marrow procedures. All elements of our clinical practice were reviewed and evaluated, including outcomes.

Results: Between 2010 and 2017, the RN team completed a total of 10,867 bone marrow procedures in our hospital-based ambulatory infusion center. The team included 15 nurses who completed up to eight patient procedures each weekday. Patient satisfaction rates were consistently high and complication rates were very low: less than 1% of all patients experienced postprocedure bleeding, and less than 2% required urgent medical care within 24 hours of the procedure. In an analysis of bone marrow procedures performed between 2016 and 2017, the quality of bone marrow samples obtained by the RN team remained high, consistently meeting or exceeding our 95% clinical adequacy goal.

Conclusions: There is limited evidence in the literature supporting the practice of RN-performed bone marrow procedures. Our review revealed a robust program with excellent clinical and diagnostic outcomes that can be emulated by other institutions interested in pursuing RN-performed bone marrow procedures.
Using Debriefing Methods in the Postclinical Conference
Authors: Harrison Kelly Susan , Henry Rosanna , Williams Susan
Published: August 2019

This article is one in a series on the roles of adjunct clinical faculty and preceptors, who teach nursing students and new graduates to apply knowledge in clinical settings. Instructors often seek to link theory with practice during the postclinical conference, but little is known about the most effective methods of doing so. Debriefing, which is an approach primarily associated with simulation-based learning, encourages students to reflect on and improve performance. This article examines various debriefing methods and describes scenarios in which clinical instructors can utilize this approach to improve the effectiveness of the postclinical conference.
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome From an Infectious Disease Perspective
Authors: Shah Arpan , Ma Kiet , Bhanot Nitin , AlhajHusain Ahmad , Cheema Tariq
Published: August 2019

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is an inflammatory form of lung injury in response to various clinical entities or inciting events, quite frequently due to an underlying infection. Morbidity and mortality associated with ARDS are significant. Hence, early recognition and targeted treatment are crucial to improve clinical outcomes. This article encompasses the most common infectious etiologies of ARDS and their clinical presentations and management, along with commonly encountered infectious complications in such patients.
Acute vascular effects of vascular endothelial growth factor inhibition in the forearm arterial circulation
Authors: Cameron Alan C. , Welsh Paul , Neves Karla B. , Newby David E. , Touyz Rhian M. , Lang Ninian N.
Published: August 2019

Objective:

Although vascular endothelial growth factor inhibition (VEGFi) represents a major therapeutic advance in oncology, it is associated with hypertension and adverse vascular thrombotic events. Our objective was to determine whether VEGFi caused direct vascular dysfunction through increased endothelin-1 (ET-1) activity or impaired endothelial vasomotor or fibrinolytic function.

Methods:

Using forearm venous occlusion plethysmography, we measured forearm blood flow during intra-arterial infusions of bevacizumab (36–144 μg/dl forearm volume per minute) administered for 15–60 min in healthy volunteers (n = 6–8). On two separate occasions in 10 healthy volunteers, we further measured forearm blood flow and tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) release during intra-arterial bradykinin infusion (100 and 1000 pmol/min) in the presence and absence of bevacizumab (144 μg/dl forearm volume per minute), and the presence and absence of endothelin A receptor antagonism with BQ-123 (10 nmol/min). Plasma t-PA and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) concentrations were measured at baseline and with each dose of bradykinin.

Results:

Baseline blood flow and plasma ET-1, t-PA and PAI-1 concentrations were unaffected by bevacizumab. Bradykinin caused dose-dependent vasodilatation (P < 0.0001) and t-PA release (P < 0.01) but had no effect on plasma PAI-1 concentrations. Neither bevacizumab nor BQ-123 affected bradykinin-induced vasodilatation and t-PA release.

Conclusion:

Acute exposure to bevacizumab does not directly cause endothelial vasomotor or fibrinolytic dysfunction in healthy young volunteers.
Concurrent High Condylectomy and Orthognathic Surgery to Address Mandibular and Facial Asymmetry
Authors: Maniskas Seija , Parsaei Yassmin , Bruckman Karl C. , Steinbacher Derek
Published: August 2019

Correction of facial asymmetry caused by active unilateral condylar hyperplasia (CH) requires proper diagnosis, arrested ongoing condylar growth, and ultimately orthognathic surgery. Traditionally, prior to performing orthognathic surgery, active CH is addressed either by: awaiting natural cessation of condylar overgrowth, or performing an interval high condylectomy (to stop growth). However, these strategies both add to the total treatment time, by either waiting and confirming no active growth, or performing a first stage growth-arresting procedure. In this report, the authors describe concurrent high condylectomy, and 3-jaw orthognathic surgery, to address the root of the problem and provide aesthetic correction in the same setting. This clinical series illustrates a detailed description of this approach, highlighting operative order, and an analysis of outcomes.
Genomic variant identification methods alter Mycobacterium tuberculosis transmission inference
Authors: Walter Katharine S. , Colijn Caroline , Cohen Ted , Mathema Barun , Liu Qingyun , Bowers Jolene , Engelthaler David M. , Narechania Apurva , Croda Julio , Andrews Jason R.
Published: August 2019

Pathogen genomic data are increasingly used to characterize global and local transmission patterns of important human pathogens and to inform public health interventions. Yet there is no current consensus on how to measure genomic variation. We investigated the effects of variant identification approaches on transmission inferences for M. tuberculosis by comparing variants identified by five different groups in the same sequence data from a clonal outbreak. We then measured the performance of commonly used variant calling approaches in recovering variation in a simulated tuberculosis outbreak and tested the effect of applying increasingly stringent filters on transmission inferences and phylogenies. We found that variant calling approaches used by different groups do not recover consistent sets of variants, often leading to conflicting transmission inferences. Further, performance in recovering true outbreak variation varied widely across approaches. Finally, stringent filters rapidly eroded the accuracy of transmission inferences and quality of phylogenies reconstructed from outbreak variation. We conclude that measurements of genetic distance and phylogenetic structure are dependent on variant calling approach. Variant calling algorithms trained upon true sequence data outperform other approaches and enable inclusion of repetitive regions typically excluded from genomic epidemiology studies, maximizing the information gleaned from outbreak genomes.
Determining the serotype composition of mixed samples of pneumococcus using whole genome sequencing
Authors: Knight James R. , Dunne Eileen M. , Mulholland E. Kim , Saha Sudipta , Satzke Catherine , Tothpal Adrienn , Weinberger Daniel M.
Published: August 2019

Serotyping of Streptococcus pneumoniae is a critical tool in the surveillance of the pathogen and development and evaluation of vaccines. Whole-genome DNA sequencing and analysis is becoming increasingly common and is an effective method for pneumococcal serotype identification of pure isolates. However, because of the complexities of the pneumococcal capsular loci, current analysis software requires samples to be pure (or nearly pure) and only contain a single pneumococcal serotype. We introduce a new software tool called SeroCall, which can identify and quantitate the serotypes present in samples, even when several serotypes are present. The sample preparation, library preparation and sequencing follow standard laboratory protocols. The software runs as fast or faster than existing identification tools on typical computing servers and is freely available under an open source license at https://github.com/knightjimr/serocall. Using samples with known concentrations of different serotypes as well as blinded samples, we were able to accurately quantify the abundance of different serotypes of pneumococcus in mixed cultures, with 100% accuracy for detecting the major serotype and up to 86% accuracy for detecting minor serotypes. We were also able to track changes in serotype frequency over time in an experimental setting. This approach could be applied in both epidemiologic field studies of pneumococcal colonization as well as in experimental lab studies and could provide a cheaper and more efficient method for serotyping than alternative approaches.