bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term leisure-time physical activity and other health habits as predictors of objectively monitored late-life physical activity – A 40-year twin study
Authors: Waller Katja , Vähä-Ypyä Henri , Törmäkangas Timo , Hautasaari Pekka , Lindgren Noora , Iso-Markku Paula , Heikkilä Kauko , Rinne Juha , Kaprio Jaakko , Sievänen Harri , Kujala Urho M.
Published: June 2018

Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in old age is an important indicator of good health and functional capacity enabling independent living. In our prospective twin cohort study with 616 individuals we investigated whether long-term physical activity assessed three times, in 1975, 1982 and 1990 (mean age 48 years in 1990), and other self-reported health habits predict objectively measured MVPA measured with a hip-worn triaxial accelerometer (at least 10 hours per day for at least 4 days) 25 years later (mean age of 73 years). Low leisure-time physical activity at younger age, higher relative weight, smoking, low socioeconomic status, and health problems predicted low MVPA in old age in individual-based analyses (altogether explaining 20.3% of the variation in MVPA). However, quantitative trait modeling indicated that shared genetic factors explained 82% of the correlation between baseline and follow-up physical activity. Pairwise analyses within monozygotic twin pairs showed that only baseline smoking was a statistically significant predictor of later-life MVPA. The results imply that younger-age physical activity is associated with later-life MVPA, but shared genetic factors underlies this association. Of the other predictors mid-life smoking predicted less physical activity at older age independent of genetic factors.
Need for focus on microbial species following ice melt and changing freshwater regimes in a Janus Arctic Gateway
Authors: Joli Nathalie , Gosselin Michel , Ardyna Mathieu , Babin Marcel , Onda Deo Florence , Tremblay Jean-Éric , Lovejoy Connie
Published: June 2018

Oceanic gateways are sensitive to climate driven processes. By connecting oceans, they have a global influence on marine biological production and biogeochemical cycles. The furthest north of these gateways is Nares Strait at the top of the North Water between Greenland and Ellesmere Island (Canada). This gateway is globally beneficial, first by supporting high local mammal and bird populations and second with the outflow of phosphate-rich Arctic waters fueling the North Atlantic spring bloom. Both sides of the North Water are hydrologically distinct with counter currents that make this Arctic portal a Janus gateway, after Janus, the Roman god of duality. We examined oceanographic properties and differences in phytoplankton and other protist communities from the eastern and western sides of the North Water (latitude 76.5°N) and found that species differed markedly due to salinity stratification regimes and local hydrography. Typical Arctic communities were associated with south flowing currents along the Canadian side, while potentially noxious Pseudo-nitzschia spp. were dominant on the Greenland side and associated with greater surface freshening from ice melt. This susceptibility of the Greenland side to Pseudo-nitzschia spp. blooms suggest that monitoring species responses to climate mediated changes is needed.
Effects of different management regimes on microbial biodiversity in vineyard soils
Authors: Hendgen Maximilian , Hoppe Björn , Döring Johanna , Friedel Matthias , Kauer Randolf , Frisch Matthias , Dahl Andreas , Kellner Harald
Published: June 2018

An active and diverse soil biota is important for maintaining crop productivity and quality, and preservation of these traits is a major goal of sustainable farming. This study aimed at unravelling the impact of different management practices on soil fungal and bacterial biodiversity in vineyards as a model for permanent crops. Species diversity was assessed using an amplicon sequencing approach in a long-term field experiment in the Rheingau wine region of Germany where integrated, organic and biodynamic management practices had been in place for 10 years. Fungal community composition under integrated management differed significantly from organic and biodynamic management, whereas fungal species richness remained unaffected. Soil under integrated management had a significantly reduced bacterial species richness compared to organic, but community composition was similar to organically and biodynamically managed soils. Highest fungal richness was obtained under cover crop between rows in topsoil, arising from cover cropping and organic carbon supply.
Aerosol optical, microphysical, chemical and radiative properties of high aerosol load cases over the Arctic based on AERONET measurements
Authors: Xie Yisong , Li Zhengqiang , Li Li , Wagener Richard , Abboud Ihab , Li Kaitao , Li Donghui , Zhang Ying , Chen Xingfeng , Xu Hua
Published: June 2018

Columnar mass concentrations of aerosol components over the Arctic are estimated using microphysical parameters derived from direct sun extinction and sky radiance measurements of Aerosol Robotic Network. Aerosol optical, microphysical, chemical and radiative properties show that Arctic aerosols are dominated by fine mode particles, especially for high aerosol load cases. The average aerosol optical depth (AOD) of the selected Arctic sites in the sampling period is approximately 0.08, with 75% composed of fine mode particles. The fine mode fraction mostly exceeds 0.9 when AOD greater than 0.4. The ammonium sulfate-like component (AS) contributes about 68% of total dry aerosol mass for high-AOD events. The estimated compositions and back trajectories show that the transported aerosol particles from biomass burning events have large amounts of black carbon (BC) and brown carbon, while those from pollution events are characterised by large AS fractions. The instantaneous radiative forcing at the top-of-atmosphere is higher for the more absorbing components, and varies greatly with surface albedo and solar zenith angle. A regression model of columnar composition and radiative forcing within the atmosphere (RFATM) for Arctic aerosol is established, showing that BC dominates a positive RFATM with a high warming efficiency.
Absolute dating of lead carbonates in ancient cosmetics by radiocarbon
Authors: Beck Lucile , Caffy Ingrid , Delqué-Količ Emmanuelle , Moreau Christophe , Dumoulin Jean-Pascal , Perron Marion , Guichard Hélène , Jeammet Violaine
Published: June 2018

Lead carbonate is one of the major compounds of art and archeology used as an ingredient in paint and cosmetics since Antiquity. Accelerator mass spectrometry radiocarbon dating is usually applied to organic remains. Here we extend radiocarbon dating to lead carbonate, an inorganic material. We demonstrate that lead carbonates can be dated. We also show that natural and manufactured make-up powders can be discriminated by radiocarbon. We find that cerussite used for cosmetics was a natural mineral during the Egyptian Kingdom and then a synthesized compound manufactured by the ancient Greeks. Furthermore, we confirm that phosgenite was artificially produced by the Egyptians about 3500 years ago. Our results confirm the expertize of ancient Egyptians and Greeks in the chemical synthesis of cosmetics. The detection of radiocarbon in lead carbonate holds great promise for art history and provides a new tool for the authentication of paintings by dating the lead white pigment.
Plant extracts as green reductants for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles: lessons from chemical synthesis
Authors: Khan Mujeeb , Shaik Mohammed Rafi , Adil Syed Farooq , Khan Shams Tabrez , Al-Warthan Abdulrahman , Siddiqui Mohammed Rafiq H. , Tahir Muhammad N. , Tremel Wolfgang
Published: June 2018

From conventional synthesis to green transformations: a brief literature overview and insight for the synthesis of Ag nanoparticles.
Crystalline protein scaffolds as a defined environment for the synthesis of bioinorganic materials
Authors: Künzle Matthias , Lach Marcel , Beck Tobias
Published: June 2018

We discuss synthetic strategies and applications of highly ordered bioinorganic materials based on crystalline protein scaffolds.
Heterometallic 3d–4f single molecule magnets containing diamagnetic metal ions
Authors: Chakraborty Amit , Goura Joydeb , Kalita Pankaj , Swain Abinash , Rajaraman Gopalan , Chandrasekhar Vadapalli
Published: June 2018

This perspective deals with the synthesis and study of SMM properties of heterometallic 3d–4f complexes containing diamagnetic 3d metal ions.
Enhanced acetone sensing performance of Au nanoparticle modified porous tube-like ZnO derived from rod-like ZIF-L
Authors: Fu Huifen , Wang Xun , Wang Peng , Wang Zhihua , Ren Hang , Wang Chong-Chen
Published: June 2018

A facile preparation method of porous tube-like ZnO and Au/ZnO with high acetone-sensing performance was developed by annealing rod-like ZIF-L at high temperature.
AIE-based super-resolution imaging probes for β-amyloid plaques in mouse brains
Authors: Wang Ya-Long , Fan Cheng , Xin Bo , Zhang Jian-Ping , Luo Ting , Chen Ze-Qiang , Zhou Qi-Yuan , Yu Qi , Li Xiang-Ning , Huang Zhen-Li , Li Chong , Zhu Ming-Qiang , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: June 2018

AIE-based super-resolution probes are introduced for the super-resolution imaging of fibrillar amyloids with 30 nm resolution.
Turn-on fluorescent probe with aggregation-induced emission characteristics for polyazoles
Authors: Zhang Yahui , Xu Weiquan , Kong Lingwei , Han Bingru , Cai Zhengxu , Shi Jianbing , Tong Bin , Dong Yuping , Tang Benzhong
Published: June 2018

The detection of polyazoles is important for both the environmental protection and homeland security.
Development of nanofibrillar morphologies in poly(l-lactide)/poly(amide) blends: role of the matrix elasticity and identification of the critical shear rate for the nodular/fibrillar transition
Authors: Yousfi M. , Dadouche T. , Chomat D. , Samuel C. , Soulestin J. , Lacrampe M.-F. , Krawczak P.
Published: June 2018

A critical share rate exists, above which the droplet/fibril transition occurs during the injection moulding process. The elasticity ratio controls the morphology formation as well as the viscosity ratio and the interfacial tension.
Photoredox systems with biocatalysts for CO2utilization
Authors: Amao Y.
Published: June 2018

Visible-light driven CO2reduction and utilization systems involving the photoreduction of NAD(P)+or bipyridinium salt (viologen)-based electron mediators and biocatalysts are introduced.
Calcium phosphate altered the cytokine secretion of macrophages and influenced the homing of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Wang Menglu , Chen Fuying , Wang Jing , Chen Xuening , Liang Jie , Yang Xiao , Zhu Xiangdong , Fan Yujiang , Zhang Xingdong
Published: June 2018

BCP ceramics increased the secretion of chemokines in macrophages to promote MSC homingviaCCL2/CCR2 and CCL3/CCR1 ligand–receptor axes.
On statistical power grid observability under communication constraints (invited paper)
Authors: You Minglei , Jiang Jing , Tonello Andrea M. , Doukoglou Tilemachos , Sun Hongjian
Published: June 2018

Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) have enabled real‐time power grid monitoring and control applications realizing an integrated power grid and communication system. The communication network formed by PMUs has strict latency requirements. If PMU measurements cannot reach the control centre within the latency bound, they will be invalid for calculation and may compromise the observability of the whole power grid as well as related applications. To address this issue, this study proposes a model to account for the power grid observability under communication constraints, where effective capacity is adopted to perform a cross‐layer statistical analysis in the communication system. Based on this model, three algorithms are proposed for improving power grid observability, which are an observability redundancy algorithm, an observability sensitivity algorithm and an observability probability algorithm. These three algorithms aim at enhancing the power system observability via the optimal communication resource allocation for a given grid infrastructure. Case studies show that the proposed algorithms can improve the power system performance under constrained wireless communication resources.
The Construct Validity of the CODA and Repeated Sprint Ability Tests in Football Referees
Authors: Riiser Amund , Andersen Vidar , Castagna Carlo , Pettersen Svein Arne , Saeterbakken Atle , Froyd Christian , Ylvisaker Einar , Naess Kjosnes Terje , Fusche Moe Vegard
Published: June 2018

As of 2017, the international football federation introduced the change of direction ability test (CODA) and the 5×30 m sprint test for assistant referees (ARs) and continued the 6×40 m sprint test for field referees (FRs) as mandatory tests. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between performance in these tests and running performance during matches at the top level in Norway. The study included 9 FRs refereeing 21 matches and 19 ARs observed 53 times by a local positioning system at three stadiums during the 2016 season. Running performance during matches was assessed by high-intensity running (HIR) distance, HIR counts, acceleration distance, and acceleration counts. For the ARs, there was no association between the CODA test with high-intensity running or acceleration (P>0.05). However, the 5×30 m sprint test was associated with HIR count during the entire match (E −12.9, 95% CI −25.4 to −0.4) and the 5-min period with the highest HIR count (E −2.02, 95% CI −3.55 to −0.49). For the FRs, the 6×40 m fitness test was not associated with running performance during matches (P>0.05). In conclusion, performance in these tests had weak or no associations with accelerations or HIR in top Norwegian referees during match play.
High dimensional, four positive Lyapunov exponents and attractors with four scroll during a new hyperchaotic complex nonlinear model
Authors: Mahmoud Emad E. , Abualnaja Kholod M. , Althagafi Ohood A.
Published: June 2018

New hyperchaotic nonlinear model inclusive complex variables have been introduced in this paper. This model has attributes that differentiate it from several of the models contemplated as of late in literature, for example, (i) this model is a high-dimension (9D), (ii) the new model has hyperchaotic conduct with four positive Lyapunov exponents, (iii) the attractors of our model has four scroll. Features and characteristics of this model containing Hamiltonian, invariance, dissipation, equilibria and their stability, Lyapunov exponents, Lyapunov dimension, bifurcation diagrams and chaotic (hyperchaotic) accomplishment are studied. On the confirmation of stability theory and active control technique, an approach is made to play out the complete and phase synchronizations of two identical hyperchaotic attractors of our model. The efficiency of the gained outcomes is revealed by a simulation illustration. The phase synchronization outcomes were utilized to build up a straightforward application in secure communication. Numerical effects computed to show the hyperchaotic synchronizations of a hyperchaotic model and to test the control powers scientific expressions gravity.
Shedding light on a cryptic macropodid: home ranges and habitat preferences of translocated western brush wallabies (Notamacropus irma)
Authors: Povh Leticia F. , Bencini Roberta , Chambers Brian K. , Kreplins Tracey L. , Willers Nicole , Adams Peter J. , Wann Joanne , Kobryn Halina T. , Fleming Patricia A.
Published: June 2018

A salvage translocation of western brush wallabies (Notamacropus irma (Jourdan, 1837)) was a condition of approval to build a new runway at Jandakot Airport, Western Australia. Since little is known about this endemic Western Australian species, the translocation presented a valuable opportunity to gain information on the species after release into Harry Waring Marsupial Reserve, a 260-ha reserve where these animals had been recorded previously. We aimed to gain information on the biology and ecology of the species and follow the movement of individuals tracked with Global Positioning System (GPS) collars over six months to determine their short-term survival, home-range establishment, overlap in home range between individuals, and habitat utilisation in the reserve. Weekly mean home-range estimates did not differ between males (10.0±9.7 (s.d.) ha, 95% KDE, n=6) and females (12.1±6.1 (s.d.) ha, 95% KDE, n=5) (P=0.473). Some males had 67–70% overlap in home ranges with some females, but substantial distances maintained between individuals (from 123±110m to 292±303m) confirmed the solitary nature of the species. Western brush wallabies preferred Banksia spp. woodlands, possibly due to the availability of canopy cover, and some specific understorey associations, such as Hibbertia hypericoides, that form part of their diet. Our study highlighted the importance of understanding the home-range establishment and vegetation preferences of translocated animals that will inform the planning of future translocations.
Testis-specific isoform of angiotensin-converting enzyme (tACE) as a candidate marker for bull fertility
Authors: Ojaghi Mina , Kastelic John , Thundathil Jacob C.
Published: June 2018

Although a traditional bull breeding soundness evaluation is designed to identify bulls that are grossly abnormal, bulls classified as satisfactory potential breeders still vary in fertility, implying submicroscopic differences in sperm characteristics. Testis-specific isozyme of angiotensin-converting enzyme (tACE) is involved in the regulation of sperm function. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to determine tACE content, activity and localisation in bull spermatozoa and their associations with fertility. Semen from low-fertility (LF) and high-fertility (HF) Holstein bulls (n = 20) with known FERTSOL rates, which represents the 56-day non-return rate, were used. There was greater tACE content (P < 0.05) and tACE activity (P < 0.01) in HF versus LF spermatozoa. Based on immunolocalisation, tACE was either in the acrosomal or postacrosomal region of the sperm head, with HF bulls having a higher proportion of spermatozoa with tACE in the acrosomal region than LF bulls (P < 0.05). tACE content, activity, localisation to the acrosomal region and progressive motility were significantly correlated with fertility and, based on regression analysis, tACE content was predictive of fertility. tACE content and activity in semen were similar between yearling (10–13 months old) and mature (3–4 years old) bulls. Therefore, tACE has potential as a marker of field fertility in bulls at their earliest possible age.
Distribution and functional analysis of the phosphopantetheinyl transferase superfamily in
Actinomycetales
microorganisms
Authors: Kim Jeong Ho , Komatsu Mamoru , Shin-ya Kazuo , Omura Satoshi , Ikeda Haruo
Published: June 2018

Significance

Actinomycetales
microorganisms are a rich source of secondary metabolites, and their genomes contain many biosynthetic gene clusters for metabolites including polyketide and peptide compounds synthesized by type I polyketide synthases (PKSs) and nonribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPSs). Genes encoding Sfp-type phosphopantetheinyl transferase (PPTase), which modifies the “apo” form to “holo” form carrier protein on type I PKSs and NRPSs, were widely distributed in
Actinomycetales
microorganisms, which is similar to the distribution of biosynthetic gene clusters for polyketide and peptide compounds synthesized by type I PKSs and NRPSs, respectively. Some actinomycete PPTases exhibited characteristic broad-range activities against several type I PKSs and NRPSs. These PPTases will be useful for the coexpression of several biosynthetic gene clusters including type I PKSs and NRPSs.
Interface sheet-constrained groove pressing as a modified severe plastic deformation process
Authors: Shahmirzaloo A. , Faraji G. , Safari M. , Mohammadinejad S.
Published: June 2018

In this paper, a new severe plastic deformation (SPD) process entitled interface sheet-constrained groove pressing (ISCGP) as a new variant of conventional CGP has been developed for producing ultrafine-grained metallic materials. In this process, repetitive shear deformation is imposed into the sheet material by utilising symmetrically grooved die along with two interface sheet on both sides. To study the applicability, mild steel sheets were processed by both ISCGP and CGP processes, and mechanical and microstructural properties of the processed samples were investigated. The results show a considerable improvement in mechanical properties including hardness, yield strength, and ultimate tensile strength, though the ductility sacrifice was reduced. Comparing ISCGP and conventional CGP revealed interesting results, which are shown that ISCGP can result in better surface quality and ductility.
Servant leadership, commitment, and participatory behaviors in Korean Catholic church
Authors: Joo Baek-Kyoo (Brian) , Byun Sangwon , Jang Soebin , Lee Insuk
Published: June 2018

This study aimed to investigate the effects of servant leadership on leader commitment and organizational commitment, and members’ participatory behaviors in church service and events, based on 1232 members in 28 Catholic churches in South Korea. We found that those who perceived
a high level of servant leadership from their priest(s) tended to commit more to the priest (i.e., leader) and to the church (i.e., organization). Members attended in weekday worships in addition to Sunday Mass more often, and participated in church activities and services, when highly committed
to the church. Based on structural equation modeling, we found a linear relationship from servant leadership to leader commitment, to organizational commitment, and eventually to members’ participatory behaviors. A potential contribution lies in that this study confirmed the mediating
roles of leader commitment and organizational commitment on the relationship between servant leadership and participatory behaviors in the context of Korean Catholic church.Abbreviation: SL: servant leadership; LC: leader commitment; OC: organizational commitment; PB: participatory
behaviors
Decreasing Incidence of Skin and Soft-tissue Infections in 86 US Emergency Departments, 2009–2014
Authors: Morgan Ethan , Hohmann Sam , Ridgway Jessica P , Daum Robert S , David Michael Z
Published: June 2018

Background

The incidence of skin and soft-tissue infections (SSTIs), for which human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a significant risk factor, in United States emergency departments (EDs) increased dramatically after 2000 with the emergence of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Few studies have examined SSTI incidence among HIV-infected and non–HIV-infected patients in the United States after 2010.

Methods

Data were obtained for patient encounters at all academic medical center EDs affiliated with the Vizient clinical data warehouse assigned an SSTI-associated code based on the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2014. The rate was calculated per 1000 ED encounters by year and stratified by SSTI, HIV infection, or both, and by age group, race, payer type, and region of care. Poisson regression was used to assess temporal change over the study period.

Results

In 2009–2014, a total of 47317 HIV-associated and 820440 SSTI-associated encounters were recorded among 25239781 ED patient encounters. The rate of SSTIs decreased by 8% among all patients and by 14.6%, among those with HIV infection. The SSTI incidence overall decreased from 32.0 to 29.7 per 1000 ED encounters between 2009 and 2014. HIV-infected patients had a significantly higher rate of SSTIs than HIV-uninfected patients (adjusted rate ratio, 1.91; 95% confidence interval, 1.84–1.99).

Conclusions

The decline in SSTI incidence in US EDs between 2009 and 2014 is a remarkable epidemiologic shift from the increase in SSTIs after 2000, and further research is necessary to assess reasons for this decrease.
Determinants and Consequences of Financial Hardship Among Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer: A Report From the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort Study
Authors: Huang I-Chan , Bhakta Nickhill , Brinkman Tara M , Klosky James L , Krull Kevin R , Srivastava DeoKumar , Hudson Melissa M , Robison Leslie L
Published: June 2018

Background

Financial hardship among survivors of pediatric cancer has been understudied. We investigated determinants and consequences of financial hardship among adult survivors of childhood cancer.

Methods

Financial hardship, determinants, and consequences were examined in 2811 long-term survivors (mean age at evaluation = 31.8 years, years postdiagnosis = 23.6) through the baseline survey and clinical evaluation. Financial hardship was measured by material, psychological, and coping/behavioral domains. Outcomes included health and life insurance affordability, retirement planning, symptoms, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL). Odds ratios (ORs) estimated associations of determinants with financial hardship. Odds ratios and regression coefficients estimated associations of hardship with symptom prevalence and HRQOL, respectively. All statistical tests were two-sided.

Results

Among participants, 22.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 20.8% to 24.0%), 51.1% (95% CI = 49.2% to 52.9%), and 33.0% (95% CI = 31.1% to 34.6%) reported material, psychological, and coping/behavioral hardship, respectively. Risk factors across hardship domains included annual household income of $39 999 or less vs $80 000 or more (material OR = 3.04, 95% CI = 2.08 to 4.46, psychological OR = 3.64, 95% CI = 2.76 to 4.80, and coping/behavioral OR = 4.95, 95% CI = 3.57 to 6.86) and below high school attainment vs college graduate or above (material OR = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.45 to 3.42, psychological OR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.18 to 2.62, and coping/behavioral OR = 2.05, 95% CI = 1.38 to 3.06). Myocardial infarction, peripheral neuropathy, subsequent neoplasm, seizure, stroke, reproductive disorders, amputation, and upper gastrointestinal disease were associated with higher material hardship (all P < .05). Hardship across three domains was associated with somatization, anxiety and depression (all P < .001), suicidal ideation (all P < .05), and difficulty in retirement planning (all P < .001). Survivors with hardship had statistically significantly lower HRQOL (all P < .001), sensation abnormality (all P < .001), and pulmonary (all P < .05) and cardiac (all P < .05) symptoms.

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of adult survivors of childhood cancer experienced financial hardship. Vulnerable sociodemographic status and late effects were associated with hardship. Survivors with financial hardship had an increased risk of symptom prevalence and impaired HRQOL.
Chronic tubulointerstitial nephritis
Authors: Schiller Adalbert , Covic Adrian , Segall Liviu
Published: June 2018

Chronic tubulointerstitial nephropathies (CTINs) are a group of renal diseases, characterized by variable interstitial inflammation and fibrosis and tubular atrophy, and a slow course towards end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The causes of CTIN are numerous, including nephrotoxic drugs and chemicals, infections, autoimmune diseases, obstructive uropathies, and metabolic disorders. Taken together, CTIN are responsible for less than 10% of all ESRD cases requiring renal replacement therapy.
The clinical manifestations of CTIN typically comprise low-grade proteinuria, leucocyturia, and variably reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR), whereas the blood pressure is usually normal or moderately increased. Tubular abnormalities are common, including type 2 (proximal) renal tubular acidosis, Fanconi syndrome, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, and type 1 (distal) renal tubular acidosis, with hypokalaemia and nephrolithiasis. Radiology exams reveal shrunken kidneys, sometimes with irregular outlines. A renal biopsy is often required for the diagnosis of CTIN and its aetiology.
The treatment of CTIN mainly involves discontinuation of exposure to nephrotoxins and specific therapy of renal infections, urinary tract obstruction, or underlying systemic diseases. Agents like ACE inhibitors and pirfenidone, which might reduce interstitial inflammation and fibrosis, are still under clinical evaluation.
Endothelins and their antagonists in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Dhaun Neeraj , Webb David J.
Published: June 2018

The endothelins (ETs) are a family of related peptides of which ET-1 is the most powerful endogenous vasoconstrictor and the predominant isoform in the cardiovascular and renal systems. The ET system has been widely implicated in both cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease (CKD). ET-1 contributes to the pathogenesis and maintenance of hypertension and arterial stiffness, as well endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. By reversal of these effects, ET antagonists, particularly those that block ETA receptors, may reduce cardiovascular risk. In CKD patients, antagonism of the ET system may be of benefit in improving renal haemodynamics and reducing proteinuria, effects seen both in animal models and in some human studies. Data suggest a synergistic role for ET receptor antagonists with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in lowering blood pressure, reducing proteinuria, and in animal models in slowing CKD progression. However, in clinical trials, fluid retention or cardiac failure has caused concern and these agents are not yet ready for general use for risk reduction in CKD.
Renal involvement in other infections
Authors: Ramachandran Raja , Jha Vivekanand
Published: June 2018

Renal involvement has been described in patients with many other infections and this chapter discusses several of these.

Water-borne infections are a common cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) worldwide but especially in tropical regions. Cholera is notoriously dangerous but any other cause of fluid-depletion may achieve the same. Typhoid fever is more likely to cause AKI from its complications than directly, but a small proportion of patients have glomerulonephritis.

Meliodosis is caused by the intracellular organism Burkholderia pseudomallei. It typically affects workers in paddy (rice) fields in the rainy season, and may cause a local, genitourinary infection or an acute melioidosis septicaemia with a high incidence of AKI and mortality. Those with other chronic conditions are at greatest risk.

Obstetric infections as a result of unsafe deliberate abortion or post-partum are a very common (often the most common) cause of AKI in developing countries, and a major cause of avoidable death in young women.
Thin glomerular basement membrane nephropathy and other collagenopathies
Authors: Heidet Laurence , Knebelmann Bertrand , Claire Gubler Marie
Published: June 2018

The discovery of a thin glomerular basement membrane in a renal biopsy without any other abnormalities can be explained in a number of ways. This could be an early biopsy in a patient with Alport syndrome, or it could be an individual who is a carrier for an Alport gene. These carriers are at increased risk of significant renal disease in their lifetime and some have proteinuria as well as haematuria, so they can no longer be equated with the historic label of benign familial haematuria. Some families with a thin glomerular basement membrane and haematuria inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion do not appear to have linkage to COL4 genes. Others have variable renal disease that has sometimes given rise to a label of mild but autosomal dominant Alport syndrome. This territory might also attract the label basement membrane 345 collagenopathy. Other uncommon conditions affecting the glomerular basement membrane include nail patella syndrome.
Transsylvian-Transinsular Approach for an Insular Cavernous Malformation Resection: 3-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Mascitelli Justin , Gandhi Sirin , Wright Ernest , Lawton Michael T
Published: June 2018

Surgical resection of insular lesions is challenging due to their proximity to critical neurovascular structures such as the middle cerebral arteries (MCA), Sylvian veins, thalamus, internal capsule (IC), and lenticulostriate arteries. A surgical series using the transsylvian-transinsular approach to treat cerebrovascular pathologies reported ∼5% permanent neurological morbidity.
1,2
This case demonstrates the utility of this approach for resecting an insular cavernous malformation (CM).

A 25-yr-old female presented with an acute-onset right homonymous hemianopsia. Neuroimaging revealed a large left insular CM, adjacent to the posterior limb of IC. After obtaining IRB approval and patient consent, a left pterional craniotomy with a wide distal Sylvian fissure split was completed. Using neuronavigation, an insular entry point was chosen for corticectomy. The CM was opened with subsequent hematoma evacuation and intracapsular resection technique. Inspection of the cavity revealed remnants anteromedially near the IC, which were removed meticulously, mobilizing the CM away from the IC. Postoperative MRI demonstrated gross total resection of the CM. The patient was discharged home on postoperative day 5 with persistent homonymous hemianopia.

This case describes the use of a transsylvian-transinsular approach to access deep lesions with the shortest surgical distance and minimal cortical transgression. A wide Sylvian fissure split exposes the M2 MCA and accesses a safe insular zone, keeping the most eloquent structures deep to the lesion in the surgical corridor. This approach can safely expose vascular pathologies in the insular region without the risk of injury to overlying eloquent frontal and temporal lobes, even in the dominant hemisphere.
Increased burden of suicidality among young street-involved sex workers who use drugs in Vancouver, Canada
Authors: Barker Brittany , Hadland Scott E , Dong Huiru , Shannon Kate , Kerr Thomas , DeBeck Kora
Published: June 2018

Background

The risks of suicidality among street-involved youth who use drugs and engage in sex work are not well described. This study sought to evaluate if street-involved youth who engage in sex work were at an elevated risk for attempting suicide.

Methods

Data were derived from the At-Risk Youth Study, a prospective cohort of street-involved youth who use drugs in Vancouver, Canada. Multivariable generalized estimating equation analyses were employed to examine whether youth who engaged in sex work were at elevated risk of attempting suicide, controlling for possible confounders.

Results

Between September 2005 and May 2015, 1210 youth were recruited into the cohort, of whom, 173 (14.3%) reported recently attempting suicide at some point during the study period. In multivariable analysis, youth who engaged in sex work were significantly more likely to report a recent suicide attempt (adjusted odds ratio = 1.93; 95% confidence interval: 1.28–2.91).

Conclusions

Street-involved youth who engage in sex work were observed to be at a significantly higher risk for suicidality. Systematic discrimination and unaddressed trauma may contribute to the observed increased burden of suicidality among this population. Interventions that support the mental health and well-being of street-involved youth who engage in sex work are urgently needed.
Changes in pain intensity after discontinuation of long-term opioid therapy for chronic noncancer pain
Authors: McPherson Sterling , Lederhos Smith Crystal , Dobscha Steven K. , Morasco Benjamin J. , Demidenko Michael I. , Meath Thomas H.A. , Lovejoy Travis I.
Published: June 2018

Little is known about changes in pain intensity that may occur after discontinuation of long-term opioid therapy (LTOT). The objective of this study was to characterize pain intensity after opioid discontinuation over 12 months. This retrospective U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) administrative data study identified N = 551 patients nationally who discontinued LTOT. Data over 24 months (12 months before and after discontinuation) were abstracted from VA administrative records. Random-effects regression analyses examined changes in 0 to 10 pain numeric rating scale scores over time, whereas growth mixture models delineated pain trajectory subgroups. Mean estimated pain at the time of opioid discontinuation was 4.9. Changes in pain after discontinuation were characterized by slight but statistically nonsignificant declines in pain intensity over 12 months after discontinuation (B = −0.20, P = 0.14). Follow-up growth mixture models identified 4 pain trajectory classes characterized by the following postdiscontinuation pain levels: no pain (average pain at discontinuation = 0.37), mild clinically significant pain (average pain = 3.90), moderate clinically significant pain (average pain = 6.33), and severe clinically significant pain (average pain = 8.23). Similar to the overall sample, pain trajectories in each of the 4 classes were characterized by slight reductions in pain over time, with patients in the mild and moderate pain trajectory categories experiencing the greatest pain reductions after discontinuation (B = −0.11, P = 0.05 and B = −0.11, P = 0.04, respectively). Pain intensity after discontinuation of LTOT does not, on average, worsen for patients and may slightly improve, particularly for patients with mild-to-moderate pain at the time of discontinuation. Clinicians should consider these findings when discussing risks of opioid therapy and potential benefits of opioid taper with patients.
Bone Marrow-derived CD8+ T Cells From Pediatric Leukemia Patients Express PD1 and Expand Ex Vivo Following Induction Chemotherapy
Authors: Palen Katie , Thakar Monica , Johnson Bryon D. , Gershan Jill A.
Published: June 2018

Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) of chimeric antigen receptor T cells has demonstrated remarkable success for the treatment of pediatric B-cell leukemia. For patients who are not candidates for chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy, ACT using tumor antigen-experienced polyclonal T cells may be a treatment option. Since leukemic blasts reside in the bone marrow and bone marrow is a preferred site for homeostatic proliferation of cytotoxic memory CD8+ T cells, we hypothesized that bone marrow would be a source of activated T cells. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of using bone marrow-derived T cells following postinduction chemotherapy for use in adoptive cell transfer. Matched patient samples of bone marrow and peripheral blood-derived T cells expanded ex vivo and displayed similar apoptotic profiles. Before activation and expansion, there was a significant increase in the percentage of bone marrow-derived CD8+ T cells expressing activation markers PD1, CD45RO, and CD69 as compared with peripheral blood CD8+ T cells. Considering, melanoma-reactive CD8+ T cells reside in the subset of PD1+CD8+ T cells, the bone marrow may be an enriched source leukemic-specific T cells that can be used for ACT.
Quantification of Cisplatin Using a Modified 3-Material Decomposition Algorithm at Third-Generation Dual-Source Dual-Energy Computed Tomography
Authors: Sofue Keitaro , Itoh Toshihide , Takahashi Satoru , Schmidt Bernhard , Shimada Ryuji , Negi Noriyuki , Sugimura Kazuro , Murakami Takamichi
Published: June 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the ability of third-generation dual-source dual-energy computed tomography to quantify cisplatin concentration using a 3-material decomposition algorithm in an experimental phantom.

Materials and Methods

Fifteen agarose-based phantoms containing various concentrations of iodine (0, 1.0, 2.0 mg I/mL) and cisplatin (0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 mg Pt/mL) were scanned using third-generation dual-source dual-energy computed tomography at 80 kV and 150 kV with tin prefiltration. A cisplatin map was generated using the cisplatin-specific 3-material decomposition algorithm to differentiate cisplatin from iodine and agar. The computed tomography (CT) values at 80 kV, 150 kV, mixed 120 kV, and the cisplatin map were measured. Interobserver variabilities for the CT measurements on the cisplatin map were assessed using interclass correlation coefficients. Correlation between the CT values and titrated cisplatin concentrations was correlated using Spearman rank correlation analysis. To assess the influence of iodine, linear regression lines for the CT values on the cisplatin map and titrated cisplatin concentrations were compared using an analysis of covariance.

Results

Interobserver agreement revealed almost perfect agreements (interclass correlation coefficients = 0.941–0.995). Significant and excellent positive correlations were observed between the CT values on the cisplatin map and titrated cisplatin concentrations (ρ = 0.980, P < 0.001 for all). The cisplatin map could identify the lowest cisplatin concentration of 0.5 mg Pt/mL in the presence of iodine. The iodine concentration had no significant effect on the CT measurements on the cisplatin map (P = 0.297, adjusted R
2 = 0.993).

Conclusions

The cisplatin map generated from the 3-material decomposition algorithm allows quantification of a cisplatin concentration in an experimental phantom, independent of co-present iodine.
An optimized method for the isolation and the molecular characterization of cerebral microvessels in vivo
Authors: Lee Yun-Kyoung , Smith Helen , Yuan Hui , Ito Akira , Sanchez Teresa
Published: June 2018

The molecular characterization of cerebral microvessels in experimental disease models has been hindered by the lack of a standardized method to reproducibly isolate intact cerebral microvessels, with consistent cellular compositions, and without the use of enzymatic digestion, which causes undesirable molecular and metabolic changes. Herein, we describe an optimized method for microvessel isolation from mouse brain cortex, which yields microvessel fragments (diameter <50 μm, 89.3% 3-5 μm) with consistent populations of discrete blood-brain barrier components (endothelial cells, pericytes, and astrocyte end feet), retaining high RNA integrity and protein postranslational modifications (e.g. phosphorylation). We demonstrate that this method allows the quantification of changes in gene expression in a disease model (stroke) and the activation of signalling pathways in mice subjected to drug administration. We also describe the isolation of genomic DNA and bisulfite treatment for the assessment of DNA methylation, as well as the optimization of chromatin extraction and shearing from cortical microvessels. Therefore, this protocol will be of great use to improve the understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing cerebrovascular dysfunction, which may help the development of novel therapies for stroke and other neurodegenerative diseases.
Analysing progress of SDG 6 in India: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Roy Ajishnu , Pramanick Kousik
Published: June 2018

Human endeavors to meet social and economic water needs at national scale might cause negative environmental manifestations and water stress from local to global scale. So, appropriation of Sustainable Development Goals requires a comprehensive monitoring and knowledge base of the water resource availability, utilization and access. Hence, scientific research progression has a significant role to facilitate the implementation of sustainable development goals through assessment and policy implementation from global to local scales. India holds a key position among developing economies with a complex interconnected web of a fast-growing population, coupled with biophysical stress, social deprivation and economic inequality related to water and sanitation. This study addresses some of these challenges related to monitoring and implementation of the targets of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 in India. Acknowledging the contribution of society and economy in sustainability paradigm, here we have chosen 28 indicators (clustered into eleven dimensions) under two major groups, concerning biophysical and social development aspects of water and sanitation. We have shown declining level of per capita biophysical water resource and slow to rapidly developing social indicators related to Sustainable Development Goal 6 in India. From past trends, we have calculated probable scenario of biophysical consumption of India up to 2050, which shows at least 1.3 times increase. This cumulative assessment framework contributes a tool to prioritize water resource appropriation, management response and policy implementations to national level sustainability of water and sanitation in India. We also advocate the necessity of restraining threats both at source and consumption process levels in order to ensure national water security for both human and biodiversity, keeping in mind the societal and economic development scenario.
The MoT3 assay does not distinguish between Magnaporthe oryzae wheat and rice blast isolates from Bangladesh
Authors: Gupta Dipali Rani , Avila Claudia Sarai Reyes , Win Joe , Soares Darren M. , Ryder Lauren S. , Croll Daniel , Bhattacharjee Pallab , Hossain Md. Shaid , Mahmud Nur Uddin , Mehbub Md. Shabab , Surovy Musrat Zahan , Talbot Nicholas J. , Kamoun Sophien , Islam M. Tofazzal
Published: June 2018

The blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae is comprised of lineages that exhibit varying degrees of specificity on about 50 grass hosts, including rice, wheat and barley. Reliable diagnostic tools are essential given that the pathogen has a propensity to jump to new hosts and spread to new geographic regions. Of particular concern is wheat blast, which has suddenly appeared in Bangladesh in 2016 before spreading to neighboring India. In these Asian countries, wheat blast strains are now co-occurring with the destructive rice blast pathogen raising the possibility of genetic exchange between these destructive pathogens. We assessed the recently described MoT3 diagnostic assay and found that it did not distinguish between wheat and rice blast isolates from Bangladesh. The assay is based on primers matching the WB12 sequence corresponding to a fragment of the M. oryzae MGG_02337 gene annotated as a short chain dehydrogenase. These primers could not reliably distinguish between wheat and rice blast isolates from Bangladesh based on DNA amplification experiments performed in separate laboratories in Bangladesh and in the UK. In addition, comparative genomics of the WB12 sequence revealed a complex underlying genetic structure with related sequences across M. oryzae strains and in both rice and wheat blast isolates. We, therefore, caution against the indiscriminate use of this assay to identify wheat blast.