bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case of Pneumocystis pneumonia, with a granulomatous response and vitamin D‐mediated hypercalcemia, presenting 13 years after renal transplantation
Authors: Taylor Lindsay N. , Aesif Scott W. , Matson Kristine M.
Published: March 2019

Vitamin D‐mediated hypercalcemia is an uncommon complication of Pneumocystis infection. A granulomatous response resulting from Pneumocystis infection is also atypical. In this report, we describe an exceptional case of granulomatous Pneumocystis pneumonia associated with vitamin D‐mediated hypercalcemia, in a patient who presented unusually late after renal transplantation. The patient's hypercalcemia resolved with treatment of the infection.
Large‐scale metabolite quantitative trait locus analysis provides new insights for high‐quality maize improvement
Authors: Li Kun , Wen Weiwei , Alseekh Saleh , Yang Xiaohong , Guo Huan , Li Wenqiang , Wang Luxi , Pan Qingchun , Zhan Wei , Liu Jie , Li Yanhua , Wu Xiao , Brotman Yariv , Willmitzer Lothar , Li Jiansheng , Fernie Alisdair R. , Yan Jianbing
Published: March 2019

It is generally recognized that many favorable genes which were lost during domestication, including those related to both nutritional value and stress resistance, remain hidden in wild relatives. To uncover such genes in teosinte, an ancestor of maize, we conducted metabolite profiling in a BC2F7 population generated from a cross between the maize wild relative (Zea mays ssp. mexicana) and maize inbred line Mo17. In total, 65 primary metabolites were quantified in four tissues (seedling‐stage leaf, grouting‐stage leaf, young kernel and mature kernel) with clear tissue‐specific patterns emerging. Three hundred and fifty quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for these metabolites were obtained, which were distributed unevenly across the genome and included two QTL hotspots. Metabolite concentrations frequently increased in the presence of alleles from the teosinte genome while the opposite was observed for grain yield and shape trait QTLs. Combination of the multi‐tissue transcriptome and metabolome data provided considerable insight into the metabolic variations between maize and its wild relatives. This study thus identifies favorable genes hidden in the wild relative which should allow us to balance high yield and quality in future modern crop breeding programs.
Electron transport pathways in isolated chromoplasts from Narcissus pseudonarcissus L.
Authors: Grabsztunowicz Magda , Mulo Paula , Baymann Frauke , Mutoh Risa , Kurisu Genji , Sétif Pierre , Beyer Peter , Krieger‐Liszkay Anja
Published: March 2019

During daffodil flower development, chloroplasts differentiate into photosynthetically inactive chromoplasts having lost functional photosynthetic reaction centers. Chromoplasts exhibit a respiratory activity reducing oxygen to water and generating ATP. Immunoblots revealed the presence of the plastid terminal oxidase (PTOX), the NAD(P)H dehydrogenase (NDH) complex, the cytochrome b6f complex, ATP synthase and several isoforms of ferredoxin‐NADP+ oxidoreductase (FNR), and ferredoxin (Fd). Fluorescence spectroscopy allowed the detection of chlorophyll a in the cytochrome b6f complex. Here we characterize the electron transport pathway of chromorespiration by using specific inhibitors for the NDH complex, the cytochrome b6f complex, FNR and redox‐inactive Fd in which the iron was replaced by gallium. Our data suggest an electron flow via two separate pathways, both reducing plastoquinone (PQ) and using PTOX as oxidase. The first oxidizes NADPH via FNR, Fd and cytochrome bh of the cytochrome b6f complex, and does not result in the pumping of protons across the membrane. In the second, electron transport takes place via the NDH complex using both NADH and NADPH as electron donor. FNR and Fd are not involved in this pathway. The NDH complex is responsible for the generation of the proton gradient. We propose a model for chromorespiration that may also be relevant for the understanding of chlororespiration and for the characterization of the electron input from Fd to the cytochrome b6f complex during cyclic electron transport in chloroplasts.
The successful implementation of an automated institution‐wide assessment of hemoglobin and ABO typing to dynamically estimate red blood cell inventory requirements
Authors: Quinn Jason , Campbell Clinton , Gomez Alwyn , Kumar‐Misir Andrew , Watson Stephanie , Liwski Daniel , Covello Thomas , Tennankore Karthik K. , Chisholm Natalie , Sadek Irene , Cheng Calvino
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Blood bank inventories must balance adequate supply with minimal outdate rates. The day‐to‐day practice of ordering red blood cell (RBC) inventory usually involves manually comparing current inventory levels with predetermined thresholds calculated from historical usage and ordering the difference. To date, there have been no published methods for ordering RBC inventory based on laboratory characteristics of admitted patients.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We designed and implemented a blood ordering algorithm to provide a more accurate measure of predicted RBC utilization in our institution. Cerner Command Language (Cerner Millennium) was used to extract and combine historical RBC unit usage, current inventory levels, and system‐wide hematology values and blood groups. This report contains a suggested order based on current inventory, historical inventory data, ABO group, and the current “anemia index” for the institution.

RESULTS

The mean daily total RBC inventory was significantly reduced after implementation (401.7 units vs. 309.0 units, p < 0.05). There was a significant reduction in monthly RBC outdates in this period (19.1 vs. 8.1, p < 0.05). The age of RBCs at time of transfusion was reduced as well.

CONCLUSION

We developed a novel algorithm that automatically generates a suggested RBC inventory order using real‐time hospital‐wide survey of patient ABO typing, hematology values, and historical data. After implementation of the algorithm we demonstrated a significant reduction in daily inventory levels and RBC outdate rates.
Patient and tumour factors influencing canine mast cell tumour histological grade and mitotic index
Authors: Reynolds Benjamin D. , Thomson Maurine J. , O'Connell Kathleen , Morgan Elizabeth J. , Gummow Bruce
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study was to identify patient and tumour factors most frequently associated with high histological grades of canine mast cell tumours (MCTs). Search criteria in a shared database of multiple Animal Referral Hospital locations within Australia generated 400 canine MCTs in 286 patients. Patient and tumour data were extrapolated and the association between a tumour being histologically high grade and patient and tumour factors, including: patient breed, patient gender and neuter status, patient age at MCT excision, tumour location and tumour size was assessed using univariate analysis. The study consisted of 90 (21.9%) tumours meeting histological high‐grade criteria. Shar peis were the most likely breed to have high grade MCTs, whereas the Pug and the Golden Retriever were the least likely breeds to develop high‐grade MCTs. No significant difference in risks could be established between the age at which the tumour was excised, or the gender and neuter status of patients. MCTs of the inguinal region were the most likely single location to be high grade. Tumour size did not influence the likelihood of a tumour being high grade or low grade. The results of this study suggest that patient and tumour factors may play a role in the histological grades of canine MCTs.
Multimodality characteristics of multifocal choroid plexus carcinoma with bilateral calvarial defects in a dog
Authors: Hughes Jonathan R. , Taylor‐Brown Frances E. , Greville‐Heygate Oliver , Constantino‐Casas Fernando , Williams David L. , Genain Marie‐Aude
Published: March 2019

An 8‐year‐old male intact miniature poodle presented for blindness, obtundation, tetraparesis, and vestibular signs. Magnetic resonance imaging, radiography, and ultrasound revealed a left piriform lobe lesion, right cerebellar and left brainstem lesions, and hydrocephalus and bilateral calvarial defects. Histopathology confirmed a choroid plexus carcinoma with meningeal and intraventricular metastases. The calvarial defect did not show evidence of necrosis, osteoclastic resorption, inflammation or neoplastic infiltration, reflecting a quiescent calvarial atrophy or dysplasia. These novel findings supported inclusion of bone atrophy secondary to chronic increased intracranial pressure as a differential diagnosis for large calvarial defects in dogs with choroid plexus carcinoma.
β2‐Adrenoceptors indirectly support impaired β1‐adrenoceptor responsiveness in the isolated type 2 diabetic rat heart
Authors: Cook Rosalind F. , Bussey Carol T. , Fomison‐Nurse Ingrid C. , Hughes Gillian , Bahn Andrew , Cragg Patricia A. , Lamberts Regis R.
Published: March 2019

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Are there specific contributions of β1‐ and β2‐adrenoceptor subtypes to the impaired β‐adrenoceptor responsiveness of the type 2 diabetic heart?

What is the main finding and its importance?

In hearts isolated from the Zucker diabetic fatty rat model of type 2 diabetes, we showed that the β1‐adrenoceptors are the main subtype to regulate heart rate, contraction and relaxation. Notably, the β2‐adrenoceptor subtype actions seem to support function in the diabetic heart indirectly.

Impaired β‐adrenoceptor (β‐AR) responsiveness causes cardiac vulnerability in patients with type 2 diabetes, but the independent contributions of β1‐ and β2‐AR subtypes to β‐AR‐associated cardiac dysfunction in diabetes are unknown. Our aim was to determine the specific β1‐ and β2‐AR responsiveness of heart rate (HR), contraction and relaxation in the diabetic heart. Isolated Langendorff‐perfused hearts of Zucker type 2 diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats were stimulated with the β‐AR agonist isoprenaline (1 × 10−11 to 3 × 10−8 mol l−1) with or without the selective β1‐AR antagonist CGP20712A (3 × 10−8 mol l−1) or the β2‐AR antagonist ICI‐118,551 (5 × 10−8 mol l−1), and HR, contraction and relaxation were measured. Diabetic hearts showed lower basal HR (non‐diabetic 216 ± 17 beats min−1 versus diabetic 151 ± 23 beats min−1, P < 0.05). However, the β‐AR‐induced increase in HR was similar and was completely blocked by the β1‐AR antagonist, but not by the β2‐AR antagonist. The β‐AR‐induced increase in contraction and acceleration of relaxation was impaired in diabetic hearts, completely blocked by the β1‐AR antagonist and partly impaired by the β2‐AR antagonist. Western blots revealed 41% higher phosphorylation levels of AMP kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of cardiac energy metabolism, in diabetic hearts (non‐diabetic 1.62 ± 0.19 a.u. versus diabetic 2.30 ± 0.25 a.u., P < 0.05). In conclusion, the β1‐AR is the main subtype regulating chronotropic, inotropic and lusitropic β‐AR responses in the healthy heart and the type 2 diabetic heart. The β2‐AR subtype indirectly supports the β1‐AR functional response in the diabetic heart. This suggests that β2‐ARs could be an indirect target to improve the function of the heart in type 2 diabetes.
An Efficient Approach for Stability Analysis and Parameter Tuning in Delayed Feedback Control of a Flying Robot Carrying a Suspended Load
Authors: Dong Wei , Ding Ye , Yang Luo , Sheng Xinjun , Zhu Xiangyang
Published: March 2019

This paper presents an accurate and computationally efficient time-domain design method for the stability region determination and optimal parameter tuning of delayed feedback control of a flying robot carrying a suspended load. This work first utilizes a first-order time-delay (FOTD) equation to describe the performance of the flying robot, and the suspended load is treated as a flying pendulum. Thereafter, a typical delayed feedback controller is implemented, and the state-space equation of the whole system is derived and described as a periodic time-delay system. On this basis, the differential quadrature method is adopted to estimate the time-derivative of the state vector at concerned sampling grid point. In such a case, the transition matrix between adjacent time-delay duration can be obtained explicitly. The stability region of the feedback system is thereby within the unit circle of spectral radius of this transition matrix, and the minimum spectral radius within the unit circle guarantees fast tracking error decay. The proposed approach is also further illustrated to be able to be applied to some more sophisticated delayed feedback system, such as the input shaping with feedback control. To enhance the efficiency and robustness of parameter optimization, the derivatives of the spectral radius regarding the parameters are also presented explicitly. Finally, extensive numeric simulations and experiments are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, and the results show that the proposed strategy efficiently estimates the optimal control parameters as well as the stability region. On this basis, the suspended load can effectively track the pre-assigned trajectory without large oscillations.
Combined Plant and Controller Design Using Batch Bayesian Optimization: A Case Study in Airborne Wind Energy Systems
Authors: Baheri Ali , Vermillion Chris
Published: March 2019

This paper presents a novel data-driven nested optimization framework that addresses the problem of coupling between plant and controller optimization. This optimization strategy is tailored toward instances where a closed-form expression for the system dynamic response is unobtainable and simulations or experiments are necessary. Specifically, Bayesian optimization, which is a data-driven technique for finding the optimum of an unknown and expensive-to-evaluate objective function, is employed to solve a nested optimization problem. The underlying objective function is modeled by a Gaussian process (GP); then, Bayesian optimization utilizes the predictive uncertainty information from the GP to determine the best subsequent control or plant parameters. The proposed framework differs from the majority of codesign literature where there exists a closed-form model of the system dynamics. Furthermore, we utilize the idea of batch Bayesian optimization at the plant optimization level to generate a set of plant designs at each iteration of the overall optimization process, recognizing that there will exist economies of scale in running multiple experiments in each iteration of the plant design process. We validate the proposed framework for Altaeros' buoyant airborne turbine (BAT). We choose the horizontal stabilizer area, longitudinal center of mass relative to center of buoyancy (plant parameters), and the pitch angle set-point (controller parameter) as our decision variables. Our results demonstrate that these plant and control parameters converge to their respective optimal values within only a few iterations.
Experimental Studies of Carbon Electrodes With Various Surface Area for Li–O2 Batteries
Authors: Wang Fangzhou , Kahol P. K. , Gupta Ram , Li Xianglin
Published: March 2019

Li−O2 batteries with carbon electrodes made from three commercial carbons and carbon made from waste tea leaves are investigated in this study. The waste tea leaves are recycled from household tea leaves and activated using KOH. The carbon materials have various specific surface areas, and porous structures are characterized by the N2 adsorption/desorption. Vulcan XC 72 carbon shows a higher specific surface area (264.1 m2/g) than the acetylene black (76.5 m2/g) and Super P (60.9 m2/g). The activated tea leaves have an extremely high specific surface area of 2868.4 m2/g. First, we find that the commercial carbons achieve similar discharge capacities of ∼2.50 Ah/g at 0.5 mA/cm2. The micropores in carbon materials result in a high specific surface area but cannot help to achieve higher discharge capacity because it cannot accommodate the solid discharge product (Li2O2). Mixing the acetylene black and the Vulcan XC 72 improves the discharge capacity due to the optimized porous structure. The discharge capacity increases by 42% (from 2.73 ± 0.46 to 3.88 ± 0.22 Ah/g) at 0.5 mA/cm2 when the mass fraction of Vulcan XC 72 changes from 0 to 0.3. Second, the electrode made from activated tea leaves is demonstrated for the first time in Li−O2 batteries. Mixtures of activated tea leaves and acetylene black confirm that mixtures of carbon material with different specific surface areas can increase the discharge capacity. Moreover, carbon made from recycled tea leaves can reduce the cost of the electrode, making electrodes more economically achievable. This study practically enhances the discharge capacity of Li−O2 batteries using mixed carbons and provides a method for fabricating carbon electrodes with lower cost and better environmental friendliness.
A Study on Aeration to Alleviate Cavitation Erosion in the Contraction Section of Pressure Flow
Authors: Li Rui , Xu Wei-Lin , Luo Jing , Yuan Hao , Zhao Wei-Yang
Published: March 2019

Pressure flow generally exists in water conservancy projects and pipelines. The flow boundary of the contraction section faces a potential risk of cavitation erosion under high velocity. However, there is a lack of effective methods to suppress cavitation in engineering practices with pressure flow, posing a challenge to the operational safety of discharge structures and pipeline devices. The purpose of this paper was to realize the application of air entrainment in a plug-type contraction section of pressure flow. It was found that a single air vent and a low air flow rate could achieve complete vena contracta aeration. The pressure profiles of the vena contracta were investigated, and the results showed that the pressure distribution allowed the entrained air to diffuse laterally and convectively. Finally, we proposed a fitting algorithm to predict the air concentration in the vena contracta. These conclusions are of great significance for improving the safety and cavitation resistance of the contraction section of pressure flow.
Fast Sparse Reconstruction of Sound Field Via Bayesian Compressive Sensing
Authors: Hu Ding-Yu , Liu Xin-Yue , Xiao Yue , Fang Yu
Published: March 2019

To overcome the contradiction between the resolution and the measurement cost, various algorithms for reconstructing the sound field with sparse measurement have been developed. However, limited attention is paid to the computation efficiency. In this study, a fast sparse reconstruction method is proposed based on the Bayesian compressive sensing. First, the reconstruction problem is modeled by a sparse decomposition of the sound field via singular value decomposition. Then, the Bayesian compressive sensing is adapted to reconstruct the sound field with sparse measurement of sound pressure. Numerical results demonstrate that the proposed method is applicable to either the spatially sparse distributed sound sources or the spatially extended sound sources. And comparisons with other two sparse reconstruction methods show that the proposed one has the advantages in terms of reconstruction accuracy and computational efficiency. In addition, as it is developed in the framework of multitask compressive sensing, the method can use multiple snapshots to perform reconstruction, which greatly enhances the robustness to noise. The validity and the advantage of the proposed method are further proved by experimental results.
Gain Tuning for High-Speed Vibration Control of a Multilink Flexible Manipulator Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Njeri Waweru , Sasaki Minoru , Matsushita Kojiro
Published: March 2019

Flexible manipulators are associated with merits such as low power consumption, use of small actuators, high-speed, and their low cost due to fewer materials’ requirements than their rigid counterparts. However, they suffer from link vibration which hinder the aforementioned merits from being realized. The limitations of link vibrations are time wastage, poor precision, and the possibility of failure due to vibration fatigue. This paper extends the vibration control mathematical foundation from a single link manipulator to a three-dimensional, two links flexible manipulator. The vibration control theory developed earlier feeds back a fraction of the link root strain to increase the system damping, thereby reducing the strain. This extension is supported by experimental results. Further improvements are proposed by tuning the right proportion of root strain to feed back, and the timing using artificial neural networks. The algorithm was implemented online in matlab interfaced with dSPACE for practical experiments. From the practical experiment done in consideration of a variable load, neural network tuned gains exhibited a better performance over those obtained using fixed feedback gains in terms of damping of both torsional and bending vibrations and tracking of joint angles.
Intrinsic cell-penetrating activity propels Omomyc from proof of concept to viable anti-MYC therapy
Authors: Beaulieu Marie-Eve , Jauset Toni , Massó-Vallés Daniel , Martínez-Martín Sandra , Rahl Peter , Maltais Loïka , Zacarias-Fluck Mariano F. , Casacuberta-Serra Sílvia , Serrano del Pozo Erika , Fiore Christopher , Foradada Laia , Cano Virginia Castillo , Sánchez-Hervás Meritxell , Guenther Matthew , Romero Sanz Eduardo , Oteo Marta , Tremblay Cynthia , Martín Génesis , Letourneau Danny , Montagne Martin , Morcillo Alonso Miguel Ángel , Whitfield Jonathan R. , Lavigne Pierre , Soucek Laura
Published: March 2019

We demonstrate the pharmacologic potential of the purified cell-penetrating Omomyc mini-protein to directly inhibit MYC function in vitro and in vivo.
Delta-like protein 3 expression and therapeutic targeting in neuroendocrine prostate cancer
Authors: Puca Loredana , Gavyert Katie , Sailer Verena , Conteduca Vincenza , Dardenne Etienne , Sigouros Michael , Isse Kumiko , Kearney Megan , Vosoughi Aram , Fernandez Luisa , Pan Heng , Motanagh Samaneh , Hess Judy , Donoghue Adam J. , Sboner Andrea , Wang Yuzhuo , Dittamore Ryan , Rickman David , Nanus David M. , Tagawa Scott T. , Elemento Olivier , Mosquera Juan Miguel , Saunders Laura , Beltran Himisha
Published: March 2019

DLL3 is overexpressed in neuroendocrine prostate cancer and is a potential therapeutic target.
Upsetting the excitatory-inhibitory balance hypothesis of autism
Authors: Osterweil Emily K.
Published: March 2019

Increased excitatory-inhibitory ratio of neuronal activity may be protective rather than pathological in mouse model of autism.
Rifampin Pharmacokinetics and Safety in Preterm and Term Infants
Authors: Smith P. Brian , Cotten C. Michael , Hudak Mark L. , Sullivan Janice E. , Poindexter Brenda B. , Cohen-Wolkowiez Michael , Boakye-Agyeman Felix , Lewandowski Andrew , Anand Ravinder , Benjamin Daniel K. , Laughon Matthew M. ,   on behalf of the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act—Pediatric Trials Network Steering Committee, Furda Gary , Benjamin Danny , Capparelli Edmund , Kearns Gregory L. , Paul Ian M. , Hornik Christoph , Wade Kelly
Published: March 2019

Rifampin is active against methicillin-resistant staphylococcal species and tuberculosis (TB). We performed a multicenter, prospective pharmacokinetic (PK) and safety study of intravenous rifampin in infants of <121 days postnatal age (PNA).
Curli Biogenesis: Bacterial Amyloid Assembly by the Type VIII Secretion Pathway
Authors: Bhoite Sujeet , van Gerven Nani , Chapman Matthew R. , Remaut Han
Published: March 2019

In 1989, Normark and coworkers reported on fibrous surface structures called curli on strains of
Escherichia coli
that were suspected of causing bovine mastitis. Subsequent work by many groups has revealed an elegant and highly regulated curli biogenesis pathway also referred to as the type VIII secretion system. Curli biogenesis is governed by two divergently transcribed operons,
csgBAC
and
csgDEFG
. The
csgBAC
operon encodes the structural subunits of curli, CsgA and CsgB, along with a chaperone-like protein, CsgC. The
csgDEFG
operon encodes the accessory proteins required for efficient transcription, secretion, and assembly of the curli fiber. CsgA and CsgB are secreted as largely unstructured proteins and transition to β-rich structures that aggregate into regular fibers at the cell surface. Since both of these proteins have been shown to be amyloidogenic in nature, the correct spatiotemporal synthesis of the curli fiber is of paramount importance for proper functioning and viability. Gram-negative bacteria have evolved an elegant machinery for the safe handling, secretion, and extracellular assembly of these amyloidogenic proteins.
Tracking of
Borrelia afzelii
Transmission from Infected
Ixodes ricinus
Nymphs to Mice
Authors: Pospisilova Tereza , Urbanova Veronika , Hes Ondrej , Kopacek Petr , Hajdusek Ondrej , Sima Radek
Published: March 2019

Quantitative and microscopic tracking of
Borrelia afzelii
transmission from infected
Ixodes ricinus
nymphs has shown a transmission cycle different from that of
Borrelia burgdorferi
and
Ixodes scapularis
.
Borrelia afzelii
organisms are abundant in the guts of unfed
I. ricinus
nymphs, and their numbers continuously decrease during feeding.
Comparing Patient Risk Factor-, Sequence Type-, and Resistance Locus Identification-Based Approaches for Predicting Antibiotic Resistance in Escherichia coli Bloodstream Infections
Authors: MacFadden Derek R. , Melano Roberto G. , Coburn Bryan , Tijet Nathalie , Hanage William P. , Daneman Nick
Published: March 2019

Rapid diagnostic tests for antibiotic resistance that identify the presence or absence of antibiotic resistance genes/loci are increasingly being developed. However, these approaches usually neglect other sources of predictive information which could be identified over shorter time periods, including patient epidemiologic risk factors for antibiotic resistance and markers of lineage.
Mutations That Increase the Stability of the Postfusion gp41 Conformation of the HIV-1 Envelope Glycoprotein Are Selected by both an X4 and R5 HIV-1 Virus To Escape Fusion Inhibitors Corresponding to Heptad Repeat 1 of gp41, but the gp120 Adaptive Mutations Differ between the Two Viruses
Authors: Zhuang Min , Vassell Russell , Yuan Chen , Keller Paul W. , Ling Hong , Wang Wei , Weiss Carol D.
Published: March 2019

HIV-1 fuses with cells when the gp41 subunit of Env refolds into a 6HB after binding to cellular receptors. Peptides corresponding to HR1 or HR2 interrupt gp41 refolding and inhibit HIV infection. Previously, we found that a CCR5 coreceptor-tropic HIV-1 acquired a key HR1 or HR2 resistance mutation to escape HR1 peptide inhibitors but only the key HR1 mutation to escape a trimer-stabilized HR1 peptide inhibitor. Here, we report that a CXCR4 coreceptor-tropic HIV-1 selected the same key HR1 or HR2 mutations to escape inhibition by the HR1 peptide but different combinations of HR1 and HR2 mutations to escape the trimer-stabilized HR1 peptide. All gp41 mutations enhance 6HB stability to outcompete inhibitors, but gp120 adaptive mutations differed between these R5 and X4 viruses, providing new insights into gp120-gp41 functional interactions affecting Env refolding during HIV entry.
Antarctic Penguins as Reservoirs of Diversity for Avian Avulaviruses
Authors: Wille Michelle , Aban Malet , Wang Jing , Moore Nicole , Shan Songhua , Marshall John , González-Acuña Daniel , Vijaykrishna Dhanasekaran , Butler Jeff , Wang Jianning , Hall Richard J. , Williams David T. , Hurt Aeron C.
Published: March 2019

Approximately 99% of all viruses are still to be described, and in our changing world, any one of these unknown viruses could potentially expand their host range and cause epidemic disease in wildlife, agricultural animals, or humans. Avian avulavirus 1 causes outbreaks in wild birds and poultry and is thus well described. However, for many avulavirus species, only a single specimen has been described, and their viral ecology and epidemiology are unknown. Through the detection of avian avulaviruses in penguins from Antarctica, we have been able to expand upon our understanding of three avian avulavirus species (avian avulaviruses 17 to 19) and report a potentially novel avulavirus species. Importantly, we show that penguins appear to play a key role in the epidemiology of avian avulaviruses, and we encourage additional sampling of this avian group.
Complete Genome Sequences of 20 Nontyphoidal
Salmonella
Isolates from Rwanda
Authors: Byukusenge Maurice , Li Lingling , Uwanyirigira Mediatrice , Vepachedu Venkata R. , Kariyawasam Subhashinie , Nzayirambaho Manassé , Kuchipudi Suresh V. , Jayarao Bhushan M.
Published: March 2019

Nontyphoidal
Salmonella enterica
strains are major foodborne pathogens with global public health importance. Foodborne salmonellosis can be life-threatening, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.
Complete Genome Sequence and Methylome Analysis of Deinococcus wulumuqiensis 479
Authors: Fomenkov Alexey , Luyten Yvette , Vincze Tamas , Anton Brian P. , Roberts Richard J. , Morgan Richard D.
Published: March 2019

Deinococcus wulumuqiensis
479 (formerly known as
Deinococcus radiodurans
479) is the original source strain for the restriction enzyme DrdI. Its complete sequence and full methylome were determined using Pacific Biosciences single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing.
Draft Whole-Genome Sequence of the Green Sulfur Photosynthetic Bacterium
Chlorobaculum
sp. Strain 24CR, Isolated from the Carmel River
Authors: Freed Shawn , Robertson Sydney , Meyer Terry , Kyndt John
Published: March 2019

Green sulfur bacteria are in the family
Chlorobiaceae
, which is composed of four distinct genera, namely,
Chlorobaculum
,
Chlorobium
,
Prosthecochloris
, and
Chloroherpeton
, with
Chlorobium
species being the most commonly represented in genome studies. We have now sequenced only the fourth species of
Chlorobaculum
, which established
Chlorobaculum
sp. 24CR as a separate species and should help characterize the genus.
Complete Genome Sequences of
Bacillus
Bacteriophages Wes44 and Carmen17
Authors: Alder Haley , Himelright Madison , Eisemann Emma , Temple Louise
Published: March 2019

Wes44 and Carmen17 are siphoviruses that infect
Bacillus thuringiensis
DSM-350. Wes44 contains 42,248 base pairs and 54 predicted genes; Carmen17 contains 41,820 base pairs and 51 predicted genes.
Genome Sequencing of Polydrug-, Multidrug-, and Extensively Drug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Strains from South India
Authors: Shanmugam Sivakumar , Kumar Narender , Nair Dina , Natrajan Mohan , Tripathy Srikanth Prasad , Peacock Sharon J. , Swaminathan Soumya , Ranganathan Uma Devi
Published: March 2019

The genomes of 16 clinical
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
isolates were subjected to whole-genome sequencing to identify mutations related to resistance to one or more anti-
Mycobacterium
drugs. The sequence data will help in understanding the genomic characteristics of
M. tuberculosis
isolates and their resistance mutations prevalent in South India.
Duration of mechanical ventilation and neurodevelopment in preterm infants
Authors: Vliegenthart Roos J S , van Kaam Anton H , Aarnoudse-Moens Cornelieke S H , van Wassenaer Aleid G , Onland Wes
Published: March 2019

Objective

To investigate the association between invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) duration and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants in an era of restricted IMV.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Single neonatal intensive care unit in Amsterdam.

Patients

All ventilated patients with a gestational age between 24 and 30 weeks born between 2010 and 2015.

Main outcome measures

Neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) at 24 months corrected age (CA). Data on patient characteristics, respiratory management, neonatal morbidities, mortality and bronchopulmonary dysplasia were collected. The relationship between IMV duration and NDI was determined by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

During the study period, 368 admitted infants received IMV for a median duration of 2 days. Moderate and severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia was diagnosed in 33% of the infant. Multivariate regression analysis with adjustment for gestational age, small for gestational age and socioeconomic status showed a significant association between every day of IMV and NDI at 24 months CA (adjusted OR [aOR] 1.08, 95% CI 1.004 to 1.16, p=0.04). This association only reached borderline significance when also adjusting for severe neonatal morbidity (aOR 1.08, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.17, p=0.05).

Conclusion

Even in an era of restricted IMV, every additional day of IMV in preterm infants is strongly associated with an increased risk of NDI at 24 months CA. Limiting IMV should be an important focus in the treatment of preterm infants.
Perspectives on fertility preservation and parenthood among transgender youth and their parents
Authors: Chiniara Lyne Noelle , Viner Christine , Palmert Mark , Bonifacio Herbert
Published: March 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the views of young people (YP) with gender dysphoria and their parents concerning fertility preservation and reproductive and life priorities.

Design

A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study assessed knowledge of potential effects of treatments for gender dysphoria on fertility, current and future life priorities and preferences regarding future fertility/parenting options among YP and parents.

Results

A total of 79 YP (81% assigned female at birth [AFAB], 19% assigned male at birth [AMAB], aged 12–18 years, 68% between ages 16 years and 18 years) and 73 parents participated. The top current life priority for YP among eight options wasbeing in good health; the least important priority washaving children. Anticipated life priorities 10 years from now were ranked similarly. Parents’ rankings paralleled the YP responses; however, parents ranked having children as a significantly higher priority for AFAB compared with AMAB YP in 10 years. The majority of YP (66% AFAB, 67% AMAB) want to be a parent in the future. However, most do not envision having a biological child. A large majority (72% AFAB, 80% AMAB) were open to adoption. None of the YP surveyed pursued fertility preservation.

Conclusion

Fertility is a low current and future life priority for transgender YP. The majority of YP wish to become parents but are open to alternative strategies for building a family. These data may explain in part the reported low rates of fertility preservation among this population. Further studies are needed to assess if life priorities change over time.
Differences in ocular biometrics and aqueous humour dynamics between Chinese and Caucasian adults
Authors: Fan Shan , Guo Tao , Chen Baojiang , Xiong Junqun , Havens Shane , Gulati Vikas , Toris Carol B
Published: March 2019

Background

Glaucoma prevalence and subtype profile vary across different racial and ethnic groups. This study provides a comparative evaluation of differences in aqueous humour dynamics (AHD) and ocular biometrics in healthy Chinese and Caucasian adults of two different age groups.

Methods

Data from two independent studies with identical designs were compared. Cohorts included young adults (20–30 years old, 32 Chinese and 39 Caucasians) and older adults (>50 years old, 37 Chinese and 46 Caucasians). Parameters of AHD and ocular biometrics were evaluated. Group comparisons were made by generalised estimating equation methods.

Results

Differences in young adult Caucasians compared with similarly aged Chinese were thinner central cornea (−29.27 µm, p<0.001), lower intraocular pressure (IOP) (−2.33 mm Hg, p<0.001), larger anterior chamber volume (ACV) (28.78 µL, p<0.001) and faster uveoscleral outflow rate (Fu) (0.82 µL/min, p<0.001). Differences in older adult Caucasians compared with similarly aged Chinese were slower aqueous flow rate (Fa) (−0.28 µL/min, p=0.042), lower IOP (−1.97 mm Hg, p<0.001) and larger ACV (33.15 µL, p<0.001). Considering all subjects together by race, Caucasian subjects had slower Fa (−0.22 µL/min, p=0.035), thinner corneas (−0.52 µm, p=0.003), lower IOP (−2.11 mm Hg, p<0.001), higher ACV (30.39 µL, p<0.001) and faster Fu (0.63 µL/min, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Differences in AHD and biometrics between Caucasian and Chinese adults include larger ACVs which may contribute to the wider angles reported in Caucasians, and slower Fa rates coupled with faster Fu rates which may contribute to their lower IOP and lower overall risk of glaucoma.
Standardising hospitalist practice in sepsis and COPD care
Authors: Bergmann Steven , Tran Mary , Robison Kathryn , Fanning Christine , Sedani Simran , Ready Janet , Conklin Kelly , Tamondong-Lachica Diana , Paculdo David , Peabody John
Published: March 2019

Background

Hospitalist medicine was predicated on the belief that providers dedicated to inpatient care would deliver higher quality and more cost-effective care to acutely hospitalised patients. The literature shows mixed results and has identified care variation as a culprit for suboptimal quality and cost outcomes. Using a scientifically validated engagement and measurement approach such as Clinical Performance and Value (CPV), simulated patient vignettes may provide the impetus to change provider behaviour, improve system cohesion, and improve quality and cost efficiency for hospitalists.

Methods

We engaged 33 hospitalists from four disparate hospitalist groups practising at Penn Medicine Princeton Health. Over 16 months and four engagement rounds, participants cared for two patients per round (with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD] and sepsis), then received feedback, followed by a group discussion. At project end, we evaluated both simulated and real-world data to measure changes in clinical practice and patient outcomes.

Results

Participants significantly improved their evidence-based practice (+13.7% points, p<0.001) while simultaneously reducing their variation (−1.4% points, p=0.018), as measured by the overall CPV score. Correct primary diagnosis increased significantly for both sepsis (+19.1% points, p=0.004) and COPD (+22.7% points, p=0.001), as did adherence to the sepsis 3-hour bundle (+33.7% points, p=0.010) and correct admission levels for COPD (+26.0% points, p=0.042). These CPV changes coincided with real-world improvements in length of stay and mortality, along with a calculated $5 million in system-wide savings for both disease conditions.

Conclusion

This study shows that an engagement system—using simulated patients, benchmarking and feedback to drive provider behavioural change and group cohesion, using parallel tracking of hospital data—can lead to significant improvements in patient outcomes and health system savings for hospitalists.
Inpatient and emergency department costs from sports injuries among youth aged 5–18 years
Authors: Ryan Jessica L , Pracht Etienne E , Orban Barbara Langland
Published: March 2019

Objective

To analyse the financial costs from sports injuries among inpatients and emergency department (ED) patients aged 5–18 with a focus on Medicaid patients.

Methods

Fixed-effects linear regression was used to assess the association of patient factors with cost of injury from sports. Florida Agency for Health Care Administration data from 2010 to 2014 were used, which included all inpatient and ED patients aged 5–18 years who had a sports injury.

Results

Over 5 years, sports injuries in Florida youth cost $24 million for inpatient care and $87 million for ED care. Youth averaged $6039 for an inpatient visit and $439 for an ED visit in costs from sports injuries. Sports injuries for Medicaid-insured youth cost $10.8 million for inpatient visits and $44.2 million for ED visits.

Conclusion

Older athletes and males consistently have higher healthcare costs from sports. Baseball, basketball, bike riding, American football, roller-skating/skateboarding and soccer are sports with high costs for both ED patients and inpatients and would benefit from prevention programmes. Injuries from non-contact sport participants are few but can have high costs. These athletes could benefit from prevention programmes as well.
Hydroxychloroquine usage in US patients, their experiences of tolerability and adherence, and implications for treatment: survey results from 3127 patients with SLE conducted by the Lupus Foundation of America
Authors: Wallace Daniel J , Tse Karin , Hanrahan Leslie , Davies Rupert , Petri Michelle A
Published: March 2019

The majority of patients with SLE in the USA have been prescribed hydroxychloroquine (HCQ). Given more recent guidelines, the availability of only one strength (200 mg tablets) may limit the flexibility and ability to accurately dose patients with lupus. The Lupus Foundation of America undertook a survey to assess the current landscape of HCQ tolerability and adherence.
Acute Ischaemic Stroke Cooperation Group of Endovascular Treatment (ANGEL) registry: study protocol for a prospective, multicentre registry in China
Authors: Huo Xiaochuan , Ma Ning , Mo Dapeng , Gao Feng , Yang Ming , Wang Yilong , Wang Yongjun , Miao Zhongrong
Published: March 2019

Background and purpose

Endovascular treatment could improve functional outcomes and reduce mortality in patients with intracranial large artery occlusion. This registry aims to evaluate the endovascular treatment delivery and to improve endovascular treatment algorithm in clinical practice for patients with stroke in China.

Methods and analysis

This multicentric, nationwide, prospective registry plans to include 20 stroke centres and recruit 900 consecutive AIS patients with large-artery occlusion under endovascular treatment. This registry will enrol acute large vessel occlusion patients suitable for endovascular treatment and the inclusion and exclusion criteria. In this study, 90 days functional independence (modified Rankin Scale score ≤2) is the primary efficacy endpoint. The procedural efficacy endpoint of this registry is target artery recanalisation defined by modified Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction score 2b or 3 after endovascular therapy. Symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage with 24±3 hours after the procedure is the primary safety endpoint of this registry.

Ethics and dissemination

Beijing Tiantan Hospital’s Ethics committee and all other participating centres approved the protocol and data collection of Acute Ischaemic Stroke Cooperation Group of Endovascular Treatment registry. Each participant or representative had a written informed consent.
Prolonged monitoring of postprandial lipid metabolism after a western meal rich in linoleic acid and carbohydrates
Authors: Shokry Engy , Raab Roxana , Kirchberg Franca F. , Hellmuth Christian , Klingler Mario , Demmelmair Hans , Koletzko Berthold , Uhl Olaf
Published: March 2019

Today, awareness has been raised regarding high consumption of n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in western diets. A comprehensive analysis of total and individual postprandial fatty acids profiles would provide insights into metabolic turnover and related health effects. After an overnight fast, 9 healthy adults consumed a mixed meal comprising 97 g carbohydrate and 45 g fat, of which 26.4 g was linoleic acid (LA). Nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), phospholipid fatty acids (PL-FA) and triacylglycerol fatty acids (TG-FA) were monitored in plasma samples, at baseline and hourly over a 7-h postprandial period. Total TG-FA concentration peaked at 2 h after the meal and steadily decreased thereafter. LA from TG18:2n-6 and behenic acid from TG22:0 showed the highest response among TG-FA, with a biphasic response detected for the former. PL-FA exhibited no change. Total NEFA initially decreased to nadir at 1 h, then increased to peak at 7 h. The individual NEFA showed the same response curve except LA and some very-long-chain saturated fatty acids (VLCSFA, ≥20 carbon chain length) that markedly increased shortly after the meal intake. The similarities and dissimilarities in lipid profiles between study subjects at different time points were visualized using nonmetric multi-dimensional scaling. Overall, the results indicate that postprandial levels of LA and VLCSFA, either as NEFA or TG, were most affected by the test meal, which might provide an explanation for the health effects of this dietary lifestyle characterized by high intake of mixed meals rich in n-6 PUFA.
Performance evaluation and alternative optimization model of light rail transit network projects: A real case perspective
Authors: Luan Xin , Cheng Lin , Song Yan , Sun Chao
Published: March 2019

Light rail transit network is essential to the development of urban public transportation, and the aim of this study is to provide a scientific, efficient, and new methodology to measure and assess the pros and cons of various planning schemes for light rail transit (LRT) network, which can help guide the process of alternative prioritization and decision-making support. More specifically, through establishing the multi-attribute assessment index system, and pondering the combinational weighting model (consistent matrix analysis and information entropy methods), a data-driven and flexible multi-criteria matter-element decision-making (MCMEDM) model for LRT network optimization is constructed in this work. Furthermore, objectivity, impartiality, rationality, and validity of the proposed model are discussed and verified by a didactical case with real datasets in Jining, China. The modeling analysis (quantitative procedures) results and findings reveal that this approach is reliable and applicable to appraise and prioritize the LRT networks, avoiding the decision biases due to human or other factors. Additionally, the proposed framework can offer urban planners, managers, decision and policy makers the appropriate comments and suggestions of identifying the superior alternative (project), as well as serve as a guideline or reference for other cities.
Role of radiation in heat transfer from nanoparticles to gas media in photothermal measurements
Authors: Xi Qing , Li Yunyun , Zhou Jun , Li Baowen , Liu Jun
Published: March 2019

The heat transfer from nanoparticles (NPs) to gas of photothermal effect is investigated by taking into account both conduction and radiation. The steady-state and unsteady-state heat transfer processes are studied analytically and numerically, respectively. In contrast to the photothermal effect in liquid with metal NPs, in which the radiation is negligible, we found that the thermal radiation must be taken into account in the nanoparticle–gas system. The reason is that the thermal boundary conductance (TBC) of gas–solid interface is several orders of magnitude smaller than the TBC of liquid–solid interface, especially when the diameter of nanoparticle is comparable to or smaller than the mean free path of gas molecules. We propose a method to measure the ultra-low TBC of interface between nanoparticle and gas based on our investigations.
Color Reproduction Accuracy Promotion of 3D-Printed Surfaces Based on Microscopic Image Analysis
Authors: Wang Xiaochun , Chen Chen , Yuan Jiangping , Chen Guangxue
Published: March 2019

Full-color three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is a powerful process to manufacture intelligent customized colorful objects with improved surface qualities; however, poor surface color optimization methods are the main impeding factors for its commercialization. As such, the paper explored the correlation between microstructure and color reproduction, then an assessment and prediction method of color optimization based on microscopic image analysis was proposed. The experimental models were divided into 24-color plates and 4-color cubes printed by ProJet 860 3D printer, then impregnated according to preset parameters, at last measured by a spectrophotometer and observed using both a digital microscope and a scanning electron microscope. The results revealed that the samples manifested higher saturation and smaller chromatic aberration ([Formula: see text]) after postprocessing. Moreover, the brightness of the same color surface increased with the increasing soaked surface roughness. Further, reduction in surface roughness, impregnation into surface pores, and enhancement of coating transparency effectively improved the accuracy of color reproduction, which could be verified by the measured values. Finally, the chromatic aberration caused by positioning errors on different faces of the samples was optimized, and the value of [Formula: see text] for a black cube was reduced from 8.12 to 0.82, which is undetectable to human eyes.