bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
µ
-ANT: semantic microaggregation-based anonymization tool
Authors: Sánchez David , Martínez Sergio , Domingo-Ferrer Josep , Soria-Comas Jordi , Batet Montserrat
Published: October 2019

Motivation

Detailed patient data are crucial for medical research. Yet, these healthcare data can only be released for secondary use if they have undergone anonymization.

Results

We present and describe µ-ANT, a practical and easily configurable anonymization tool for (healthcare) data. It implements several state-of-the-art methods to offer robust privacy guarantees and preserve the utility of the anonymized data as much as possible. µ-ANT also supports the heterogenous attribute types commonly found in electronic healthcare records and targets both practitioners and software developers interested in data anonymization.

Availability and implementation

(source code, documentation, executable, sample datasets and use case examples) https://github.com/CrisesUrv/microaggregation-based_anonymization_tool.
Motion Perception in the Common Marmoset
Authors: Cloherty Shaun L , Yates Jacob L , Graf Dina , DeAngelis Gregory C , Mitchell Jude F
Published: October 2019

Visual motion processing is a well-established model system for studying neural population codes in primates. The common marmoset, a small new world primate, offers unparalleled opportunities to probe these population codes in key motion processing areas, such as cortical areas MT and MST, because these areas are accessible for imaging and recording at the cortical surface. However, little is currently known about the perceptual abilities of the marmoset. Here, we introduce a paradigm for studying motion perception in the marmoset and compare their psychophysical performance with human observers. We trained two marmosets to perform a motion estimation task in which they provided an analog report of their perceived direction of motion with an eye movement to a ring that surrounded the motion stimulus. Marmosets and humans exhibited similar trade-offs in speed versus accuracy: errors were larger and reaction times were longer as the strength of the motion signal was reduced. Reverse correlation on the temporal fluctuations in motion direction revealed that both species exhibited short integration windows; however, marmosets had substantially less nondecision time than humans. Our results provide the first quantification of motion perception in the marmoset and demonstrate several advantages to using analog estimation tasks.
Differential White Matter Maturation from Birth to 8 Years of Age
Authors: Yu Qinlin , Peng Yun , Kang Huiying , Peng Qinmu , Ouyang Minhui , Slinger Michelle , Hu Di , Shou Haochang , Fang Fang , Huang Hao
Published: October 2019

Comprehensive delineation of white matter (WM) microstructural maturation from birth to childhood is critical for understanding spatiotemporally differential circuit formation. Without a relatively large sample of datasets and coverage of critical developmental periods of both infancy and early childhood, differential maturational charts across WM tracts cannot be delineated. With diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) of 118 typically developing (TD) children aged 0–8 years and 31 children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) aged 2–7 years, the microstructure of every major WM tract and tract group was measured with DTI metrics to delineate differential WM maturation. The exponential model of microstructural maturation of all WM was identified. The WM developmental curves were separated into fast, intermediate, and slow phases in 0–8 years with distinctive time period of each phase across the tracts. Shorter periods of the fast and intermediate phases in certain tracts, such as the commissural tracts, indicated faster earlier development. With TD WM maturational curves as the reference, higher residual variance of WM microstructure was found in children with ASD. The presented comprehensive and differential charts of TD WM microstructural maturation of all major tracts and tract groups in 0–8 years provide reference standards for biomarker detection of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Transferrable Market Exclusivity Extensions to Promote Antibiotic Development: An Economic Analysis
Authors: Rome Benjamin N , Kesselheim Aaron S
Published: October 2019

Background

To address the growing threat of multidrug-resistant organisms, policymakers are seeking ideas to promote development of novel antibiotics. In 2018, the REVAMP Act was proposed in Congress to reward manufacturers of certain novel antibiotics with transferrable market exclusivity vouchers.

Methods

We estimated the economic impact of this proposal by identifying antimicrobial drugs approved by the FDA from 2007–2016 that would likely have qualified for an exclusivity voucher and matching each drug to the highest-revenue fast-track drug facing generic entry within 4 years after the antibiotic was approved. Assuming a spending decrease of 75% after generic entry, we calculated the per-drug and total societal costs of these transferrable market exclusivity extensions over a decade.

Results

We identified 10 antimicrobials that would have qualified for an exclusivity voucher, each of which was matched with 1 of 17 fast-track drugs facing generic entry through July 2019. These 10 drugs had a median annual revenue before generic entry of $249 million (range, $26 million–$2.7 billion). Accounting for a 75% spending reduction after generic entry, the median excess spending associated with 12 months of extended exclusivity was $187 million, for a total of $4.5 billion over 10 years.

Conclusions

While market exclusivity extensions are a politically appealing mechanism to encourage novel antibiotic development, this approach would cost public and private payers billions of dollars over the next decade.
Do Hiring Practices Penalize Women and Benefit Men for Having Children? Experimental Evidence from Germany
Authors: Hipp Lena
Published: October 2019

Although observational studies from many countries have consistently shown that motherhood negatively affects women’s wages, experimental findings on its effect on the likelihood of being hired are less conclusive. Motherhood penalties in hiring have been reported in the United States, the prototypical liberal market economy, but not in Sweden, the prototypical social-democratic welfare state. Based on a field experiment in Germany, this study examines the effects of parenthood on hiring processes in the prototypical conservative welfare state. My findings indicate that job recruitment processes indeed penalize women but not men for having children. In addition to providing theoretical explanations for why motherhood penalties in hiring are particularly likely to occur in the German context, this study also highlights several methodological and practical issues that should be considered when conducting correspondence studies to examine labour market discrimination.
The state of health in the European Union (EU-28) in 2017: an analysis of the burden of diseases and injuries
Authors: Santos João Vasco , Souza Júlio , Valente José , Alonso Vera , Ramalho André , Viana João , Ricciardi Walter , Freitas Alberto
Published: October 2019

Background

The Global Burden of Disease study has generated a wealth of data on death and disability in Europe. At a time of change for the European Union and European Region of WHO, with a new Health Commissioner and Regional Director, respectively, a review of health trends can contribute to identify outstanding needs and gaps. This paper reports a summary of the burden of disease in the European Union (EU) in 2017 (compared with 2007).

Methods

For the whole EU and each country, mortality by causes of death, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and life expectancies are reported.

Results

In 2017, the age-standardized mortality and DALY rates were of 452.6 and 19 663.3 per 100 000 inhabitants, respectively. The diseases contributing most to mortality were ischaemic heart disease (IHD), dementias and stroke, while low back pain and IHD accounted for the highest burden of DALYs.

Conclusions

Overall, there was an improvement in the state of health in the EU but substantial differences between countries remain. Cardiovascular diseases still represent the major burden, although there have been substantial improvements. There are many opportunities for mutual learning among otherwise similar countries with different patterns of disease.
Becoming a Grandparent and Its Effect on Well-Being: The Role of Order of Transitions, Time, and Gender
Authors: Di Gessa Giorgio , Bordone Valeria , Arpino Bruno
Published: October 2019

Objectives

Although the majority of older people are grandparents, little is known on whether and how the transition into grandparenthood affects their well-being. Moreover, evidence on whether the order of the transition, the time since grandchild’s birth, and the sociodemographic characteristics of the offspring modify the grandparental well-being is scarce. Taking into account these factors, our study examines the association between becoming a grandparent and subsequent well-being.

Methods

Our study is based on grandparents aged 50 and older from Waves 4–6 of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe. Using longitudinal analyses, we investigate associations between becoming a grandparent and subsequent life satisfaction, positive affect, and depression controlling for demographic and socioeconomic factors as well as health and well-being at baseline. Furthermore, we explore the role of modifying factors such as whether the grandchild was first-born, the time since transition, and sociodemographic characteristics of the offspring who became a parent.

Results

Becoming a grandparent has a positive effect on well-being only among women who became grandmothers for the first time and via their daughters. Moreover, this effect is particularly strong in the proximity of the birth of the grandchild. No effects were found among first-time grandfathers. Having an additional grandchild does not affect well-being of grandparents, regardless of the offspring’s characteristics.

Discussion

Transitioning to grandparenthood per se does not affect well-being. More research is needed to further investigate if interpersonal relationships and changes in roles triggered by becoming a grandparent could help promote well-being in later life.
Stress distribution models in layered, viscoelastic sedimentary basins under tectonic and glacial loads
Authors: Trzeciak Maciej , Dabrowski Marcin , Jarosiński Marek
Published: October 2019

Knowledge about the stress state in sedimentary basins gives insight into geodynamics of a given region, natural fracture development and is important in design of underground engineering operations, such as hydraulic fracturing. As the direct stress measurements are expensive, usually very limited amount of data is available, and the stress state assessment bases on theoretical models. In this work, we review the commonly used stress prediction models. We focus especially on the ones which take into account material viscoelasticity, and stress transfer between layers characterized by different mechanical properties. We extend the stress-driven elastic model to material viscoelasticity, and we apply it to predict stress changes during last glacial cycle in the Baltic basin, northern Poland. We conclude that neglecting material viscoelasticity in creeping rocks like shales or rock salt may lead to erroneous stress prediction, and that coupling of the layers induces stress transfer among layers, and together with stress relaxation in ductile layers may result in significant stress amplification in strong (elastic) layers. Finally, we emphasize the crucial role of initial stress assessment.
Birth weight for gestational age and the risk of infertility: a Danish cohort study
Authors: Thorsted A , Lauridsen J , Høyer B , Arendt L H , Bech B , Toft G , Hougaard K , Olsen J , Bonde J P , Ramlau-Hansen C
Published: October 2019

STUDY QUESTION

Is birth weight for gestational age associated with infertility in adulthood among men and women?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Being born small for gestational age (SGA) was associated with infertility in adulthood among men.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Fetal growth restriction may affect fertility, but results from previous studies have been inconsistent.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

In this population-based cohort study, we used data from a Danish birth cohort, including 5594 men and 5342 women born between 1984 and 1987. Information on infertility was obtained from Danish health registers during the period from the participants’ 18th birthday and up until 31 December 2017.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Participants were men and women born in two Danish municipalities, Aalborg and Odense. Information on birth weight and gestational age was obtained from birth records, and information on infertility diagnoses and fertility treatment was retrieved from the Danish National Patient Registry (NPR) and the Danish In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) registry. Information on potential maternal confounders was obtained from questionnaires during pregnancy and was included in adjusted analyses. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for infertility according to birth weight for gestational age.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Men born SGA had a 55% higher risk of being diagnosed with or treated for infertility compared to men born appropriate for gestational age (AGA) (adjusted OR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.09–2.21). The association attenuated after exclusion of men born with hypospadias or cryptorchidism (OR = 1.37, 95% CI: 0.93–2.01). No association was found between women’s birth weight for gestational age and risk of infertility (adjusted OR = 1.00, 95% CI: 0.73–1.37).

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

Estimation of gestational age is associated with some uncertainty and might have caused non-differential misclassification. The study design implicitly assumed similar distribution of reproductive and health-seeking behaviour across the groups that were compared.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Men born SGA had a higher risk of infertility. Genital malformations may account for part of the observed association, but this must be explored further.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

This study was supported by Health, Aarhus University. No competing interests are declared.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

N/A
Granzyme B Produced by Natural Killer Cells Enhances Inflammatory Response and Contributes to the Immunopathology of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis
Authors: Campos Taís M , Novais Fernanda O , Saldanha Maíra , Costa Rúbia , Lordelo Morgana , Celestino Daniela , Sampaio Camilla , Tavares Natália , Arruda Sérgio , Machado Paulo , Brodskyn Cláudia , Scott Phillip , Carvalho Edgar M , Carvalho Lucas P
Published: October 2019

Background

Skin lesions from patients infected with Leishmania braziliensis has been associated with inflammation induced by cytotoxic CD8+ T cells. In addition, CD8+ T cell-mediated cytotoxicity has not been linked to parasite killing. Meanwhile, the cytotoxic role played by natural killer (NK) cells in cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) remains poorly understood.

Methods

In this study, we observed higher frequencies of NK cells in the peripheral blood of CL patients compared with healthy subjects, and that NK cells expressed more interferon-γ, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), granzyme B, and perforin than CD8+ T cells.

Results

We also found that most of the cytotoxic activity in CL lesions was triggered by NK cells, and that the high levels of granzyme B produced in CL lesions was associated with larger lesion size. Furthermore, an in vitro blockade of granzyme B was observed to decrease TNF production.

Concclusions

Our data, taken together, suggest an important role by NK cells in inducing inflammation in CL, thereby contributing to disease immunopathology.
Indirect Accountability for Extraterritorial Human Rights Violations
Authors: Heupel Monika
Published: October 2019

This article examines how states and international organizations can be held to account for extraterritorial human rights violations. I develop and investigate the potential of what I call an “indirect accountability” mechanism. In indirect accountability relationships, accountability fora do not directly hold states and international organizations that commit extraterritorial human rights violations to account as these are frequently immune to direct accountability claims. Instead, they hold them to account indirectly by addressing accountability claims to an implicated third party, expecting that the third party will upload the accountability claims to the state or international organization. After conceptualizing the mechanism and its scope conditions, I conduct two brief qualitative case studies using the method of deductive process tracing to explore the potential of the mechanism. The first case study traces efforts to indirectly hold the United States to account for violating foreigners’ privacy rights in the context of mass surveillance. The second case study traces attempts to indirectly hold the United Nations Security Council to account for violating the due process rights of blacklisted terror suspects. Both case studies provide support for the mechanism.
Hand Gesture-Based Virtual Reality Training Simulator for Collaboration Rescue of a Railway Accident
Authors: Xu Jianxi , Tang Zhao , Zhao Huiwen , Zhang Jianjun
Published: October 2019

Training simulator is an efficient and innovative tool to help users learn professional skills due to its convenience and safety. However, complex human–computer interaction is one of the main disadvantages that limit its effectiveness in safety training, especially for the rescue of a railway accident that requires collaborations. Through designing a set of task-specific hand gestures, we developed a training simulator for the recovery of a railway accident that helps the rescuers learn and practice rescue skills in a life-like environment and gain the firsthand experience. To test the validity of our training simulator, a user experiment is designed to compare it with the controller-based simulator in a between-groups study with 51 participants, focusing on different aspects of effectiveness. The results demonstrate that the hand gesture-based controller can be more efficient and usable to deal with complex interactions than the traditional hand-held controller.
Identification of a mecA/mecC-positive MRSA ST1-t127 isolate from a racehorse in Japan
Authors: Sekizuka Tsuyoshi , Niwa Hidekazu , Kinoshita Yuta , Uchida-Fujii Eri , Inamine Yuba , Hashino Masanori , Kuroda Makoto
Published: October 2019

Objectives

MRSA is a known pathogen that affects horses. We investigated an equine MRSA isolate for potential antimicrobial resistance genes, classified the staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) and identified the strain-specific dissemination in the horse community based on WGS.

Methods

WGS, using short-read sequencing, and subsequent long-read sequencing by hybrid assembly, was conducted to obtain a complete genome sequence. Pairwise sequence alignment of relative SCCmec sequences and core-genome phylogenetic analysis were performed to highlight transmission routes of the SCCmec and MRSA strain-specific lineages.

Results

In 2018, we isolated the MRSA JRA307 strain from the pus of a wound on a racehorse and the complete genome sequence suggests that it is a clinically relevant pvl-negative ST1-t127 MRSA that harbours both mecA and mecC on SCCmec-307. SCCmec-307 exhibited marked sequence identity to the previously reported SCCmec–mecC in the Staphylococcus sciuri GVGS2 strain isolated from cattle. The JRA307 mecC gene was classified as a mecC allotype of S. sciuri rather than that of Staphylococcus aureus.

Conclusions

We demonstrated the complete genome sequence of equine isolate JRA307, which is a clinically relevant MRSA harbouring mecA and mecC on SCCmec-307. The finding of mecC MRSA suggests a possible SCCmec transmission between distinct staphylococcal species. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of mecC detection in Japan.
Biphasic moult cycle of the parasitic isopod Norileca indica (H. Milne Edwards, 1840) (Isopoda: Cymothoidea): stage-wise characterisation and haemolymph ecdysteroids titre
Authors: Sahadevan Amrutha Vani , Jose Priya T A , Kappalli Sudha
Published: October 2019

Norileca indica (H. Milne Edwards, 1840) is a protandrous hermaphroditic and obligatory parasitic isopod of scombrid fishes. The posterior and anterior biphasic moult cycles in the adult phases (male, transitional, and female) of this species are characterised based on the microscopic changes reflected in the uropod exopodite and maxillule, respectively. Biphasic parturial moult as well as the moult removing the old brood pouch characteristic of ovigerous females was recorded. Assay of haemolymph ecdysteroids titre with respect to different biphasic moult cycle stages appears to be first report of its kind among aquatic and/or parasitic isopods. The ecdysteroids titre showed significant fluctuation in relation to the moult cycle stages, while the parasite was at a biphasically intermoult stage, titre was estimated to be 13.64 ± 2.09 ng ml–1. By the onset of the premoult at the posterior body region, titre showed a gradual increase and reached a maximum level (328.54 ± 70.17 ng ml–1; P = 0.0060) when the parasite was at late premoult at the posterior body part and mid premoult stage at the anterior body part. There was a subsequent sharp decline (92.8 ± 12.95 ng ml–1; P = 0.002) soon after the ecdysis of the posterior part by the time premoult changes in the anterior part advanced as late premoult and about to moult. The level of ecdysteroids titre was 55.56 ± 14.47 ng ml–1 when the parasite completed anterior ecdysis and reached postmoult. Data on the monthly occurrence of biphasic moult cycles revealed that a mean average of 23.26% of the adult population undergoes premoult/ecdysis/postmoult activities throughout the year. The rate of moulting showed a decline (16.12 ± 0.60%) during the monsoon months (June-August) when compared to pre-summer/summer (February-May) (24.83 ± 2.42%) and post-monsoon/winter (September-January) (26.28 ± 1.75; P = 0.005).
Efficacy of Active Ingredients From the EPA 25(B) List in Reducing Attraction of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) to Humans
Authors: Mitra Soumi , Rodriguez Stacy D , Vulcan Julia , Cordova Joel , Chung Hae-Na , Moore Emily , Kandel Yashoda , Hansen Immo A
Published: October 2019

Mosquitoes of the Aedes genus are vectors for dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever viruses. Mosquito repellents are an effective way to prevent mosquito bites and reduce the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. In the early 90s, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published a list of active ingredients that pose minimum risk to human health that can be used as pesticides or repellents without passing the EPA registration process. The present study examined the efficacy of 21 of the active ingredients listed by the EPA 25 (B) exempt list and five commercially available sprays that only contained active ingredients from the EPA 25(B) list in repelling female Aedes aegypti (L.) females. We performed choice bioassays in a controlled laboratory environment, using a Y-tube olfactometer to determine attraction rates of humans to female Ae. aegypti in the presence of one of the 21 active ingredients and five commercially available repellent sprays. We found that cinnamon oil, peppermint oil, spearmint oil, lemongrass oil, and garlic oil reduced mosquito attraction to human odor. Of the five commercial repellent sprays, only one reduced mosquito attraction for up to 30 min in our assay. The EPA 25 (B) list contains active ingredients that under the conditions of our assay repel Ae. aegypti.
The effect of the metallicity-specific star formation history on double compact object mergers
Authors: Neijssel Coenraad J , Vigna-Gómez Alejandro , Stevenson Simon , Barrett Jim W , Gaebel Sebastian M , Broekgaarden Floor S , de Mink Selma E , Szécsi Dorottya , Vinciguerra Serena , Mandel Ilya
Published: October 2019

We investigate the impact of uncertainty in the metallicity-specific star formation rate over cosmic time on predictions of the rates and masses of double compact object mergers observable through gravitational waves. We find that this uncertainty can change the predicted detectable merger rate by more than an order of magnitude, comparable to contributions from uncertain physical assumptions regarding binary evolution, such as mass transfer efficiency or supernova kicks. We statistically compare the results produced by the COMPAS population synthesis suite against a catalogue of gravitational-wave detections from the first two Advanced LIGO and Virgo observing runs. We find that the rate and chirp mass of observed binary black hole mergers can be well matched under our default evolutionary model with a star formation metallicity spread of 0.39 dex around a mean metallicity 〈Z〉 that scales with redshift z as 〈Z〉 = 0.035 × 10−0.23z, assuming a star formation rate of $0.01 \times (1+z)^{2.77} / (1+((1+z)/2.9)^{4.7}) \, \rm {M}_\odot$ Mpc−3 yr−1. Intriguingly, this default model predicts that 80 per cent of the approximately one binary black hole merger per day that will be detectable at design sensitivity will have formed through isolated binary evolution with only dynamically stable mass transfer, i.e. without experiencing a common-envelope event.
Be it therefore resolved: cosmological simulations of dwarf galaxies with 30 solar mass resolution
Authors: Wheeler Coral , Hopkins Philip F , Pace Andrew B , Garrison-Kimmel Shea , Boylan-Kolchin Michael , Wetzel Andrew , Bullock James S , Kereš Dušan , Faucher-Giguère Claude-André , Quataert Eliot
Published: October 2019

We study a suite of extremely high-resolution cosmological Feedback in Realistic Environments simulations of dwarf galaxies ($M_{\rm halo} \lesssim 10^{10}\rm \, M_{\odot }$), run to z = 0 with $30\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$ resolution, sufficient (for the first time) to resolve the internal structure of individual supernovae remnants within the cooling radius. Every halo with $M_{\rm halo} \gtrsim 10^{8.6}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$ is populated by a resolved stellar galaxy, suggesting very low-mass dwarfs may be ubiquitous in the field. Our ultra-faint dwarfs (UFDs; $M_{\ast }\lt 10^{5}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$) have their star formation (SF) truncated early (z ≳ 2), likely by reionization, while classical dwarfs ($M_{\ast }\gt 10^{5}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$) continue forming stars to z < 0.5. The systems have bursty star formation histories, forming most of their stars in periods of elevated SF strongly clustered in both space and time. This allows our dwarf with M*/Mhalo > 10−4 to form a dark matter core ${\gt}200\rm \, pc$, while lower mass UFDs exhibit cusps down to ${\lesssim}100\rm \, pc$, as expected from energetic arguments. Our dwarfs with $M_{\ast }\gt 10^{4}\, \mathrm{M}_{\odot }$ have half-mass radii (R1/2) in agreement with Local Group (LG) dwarfs (dynamical mass versus R1/2 and stellar rotation also resemble observations). The lowest mass UFDs are below surface brightness limits of current surveys but are potentially visible in next-generation surveys (e.g. LSST). The stellar metallicities are lower than in LG dwarfs; this may reflect pre-enrichment of the LG by the massive hosts or Pop-III stars. Consistency with lower resolution studies implies that our simulations are numerically robust (for a given physical model).
Discovery of an edge-on galaxy with X-shaped bi-cone – SDSS J171359.00+333625.5
Authors: Bao Min , Chen Yan-mei , Yuan Qi-rong , Shi Yong , Bizyaev Dmitry , Yu Xiao-ling , Gu Qiu-sheng , Yu Ying
Published: October 2019

Using the integral field unit (IFU) data from Mapping Nearby Galaxies at Apache Point Observatory (MaNGA) survey, we study the kinematics of gas and stellar components in an edge-on Seyfert 2 galaxy, SDSS J171359.00+333625.5, with X-shaped bi-conical outflows. The gas and stars therein are found to be counter-rotating, indicating that the collision between the inner and external gas might be an effective way to dissipate the angular momentum, which leads to remarkable gas accretion into the galaxy centre. Large [O iii]λ5007 equivalent width and AGN-like line ratio in the large bi-conical region suggest that the gas is ionized by the central AGN. The gas velocity in the bi-cone region shows that ionized gas is receding relative to the galaxy centre, which could be the joint effect of inflows, outflows, and disc rotation. We are probably witnessing the case where a great amount of gas in the disc is being efficiently accreted into the central black hole, and the AGN-driven galactic winds are blown out along the bi-cone. The kinematics of oxygen, including rotation velocity and velocity dispersion, is different from other elements, like hydrogen, nitrogen, and sulphur. The rotation velocity estimated from oxygen is slower than from other elements. The velocity dispersion of other elements follows galactic gravitational potential, while the velocity dispersion of oxygen stays roughly constant along the galactic major-axis. The further advanced observations, e.g. of cold gas or with an IFU of higher spatial resolution, are required to better understand this object.
Estimating covariance matrices for two- and three-point correlation function moments in Arbitrary Survey Geometries
Authors: Philcox Oliver H E , Eisenstein Daniel J
Published: October 2019

We present configuration-space estimators for the auto- and cross-covariance of two- and three-point correlation functions (2PCF and 3PCF) in general survey geometries. These are derived in the Gaussian limit (setting higher order correlation functions to zero), but for arbitrary non-linear 2PCFs (which may be estimated from the survey itself), with a shot-noise rescaling parameter included to capture non-Gaussianity. We generalize previous approaches to include Legendre moments via a geometry-correction function calibrated from measured pair and triple counts. Making use of importance sampling and random particle catalogues, we can estimate model covariances in fractions of the time required to do so with mocks, obtaining estimates with negligible sampling noise in ∼10 (∼100) CPU-hours for the 2PCF (3PCF) autocovariance. We compare results to sample covariances from a suite of BOSS DR12 mocks and find the matrices to be in good agreement, assuming a shot-noise rescaling parameter of 1.03 (1.20) for the 2PCF (3PCF). To obtain strongest constraints on cosmological parameters, we must use multiple statistics in concert; having robust methods to measure their covariances at low computational cost is thus of great relevance to upcoming surveys.
The mass–metallicity and the fundamental metallicity relation revisited on a fully Te-based abundance scale for galaxies
Authors: Curti Mirko , Mannucci Filippo , Cresci Giovanni , Maiolino Roberto
Published: October 2019

The relationships between stellar mass, gas-phase metallicity and star-formation rate (i.e. the mass–metallicity, MZR, and the fundamental metallicity relation, FMR) in the local Universe are revisited by fully anchoring the metallicity determination for SDSS galaxies on the Te abundance scale defined exploiting the strong-line metallicity calibrations presented by Curti et al. Self-consistent metallicity measurements allow a more unbiased assessment of the scaling relations involving M, Z and SFR, which provide powerful constraints for the chemical evolution models. We parametrize the MZR with a new functional form that allows us to better characterize the turnover mass. The slope and saturation metallicity are in good agreement with previous determinations of the MZR based on the Te method, while showing significantly lower normalization compared to those based on photoionization models. The Z–SFR dependence at fixed stellar mass is also investigated, being particularly evident for highly star-forming galaxies, where the scatter in metallicity is reduced up to a factor of ${\sim}30{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$. A new parametrization of the FMR is given by explicitly introducing the SFR dependence of the turnover mass into the MZR. The residual scatter in metallicity for the global galaxy population around the new FMR is 0.054 dex. The new FMR presented in this work represents a useful local benchmark to compare theoretical predictions and observational studies (of both local and high-redshift galaxies) whose metallicity measurements are tied to the abundance scale defined by the Te method, hence allowing proper assessment of its evolution with cosmic time.
miR-181a-2* expression is different amongst carcinomas from the colorectal serrated route
Authors: Kondelova Alexandra , Alburquerque-González Begoña , Vychytilova-Faltejskova Petra , García-Solano José , Prochazka Vladimir , Kala Zdenek , Pérez Fernando , Slaby Ondrej , Conesa-Zamora Pablo
Published: October 2019

Serrated adenocarcinoma (SAC) and colorectal carcinomas showing histological and molecular features of high-level of microsatellite instability (hmMSI-H) are both end points of the serrated pathway of colorectal carcinogenesis. Despite common features (right-sided location, CpG island methylation phenotype and BRAF mutation) there are no studies comparing the microRNA (miRNA) expression profiles in SACs and hmMSI-H. The microtranscriptome from 12 SACs and 8 hmMSI-H were analysed using Affymetrix GeneChip miRNA 3.0 arrays and differentially enriched functions involving immune response were observed from this comparison. miR-181a-2* was found significantly more expressed in hmMSI-H than in SAC and higher expression of this miRNA in microsatellite unstable colorectal cancer were corroborated by Real-Time PCR in an extended series (61 SAC, 21 hmMSI-H). An analysis of genes possibly regulated by miR-181a-2* was carried out and, amongst these, an inverse correlation of NAMPT with miR-181a-2* expression was observed, whereas, for TRAF1 and SALL1, additional regulation mechanisms involving CpG island methylation were observed. miR-181a-2* is associated with particular histological and molecular features of colorectal carcinomas within the serrated pathological pathway and might play a role in the immune responses of microsatellite instability carcinomas.
Vertebral Artery to Common Carotid Artery Transposition: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Hendricks Benjamin K , Spetzler Robert F
Published: October 2019

Vertebral artery (V1 segment) transposition is a useful technique in the treatment of patients with either proximal subclavian artery stenosis with vertebral “steal” syndrome or severe vertebral artery origin stenosis. This patient required extracranial augmentation of right vertebral artery blood flow to treat proximal vertebral artery stenosis. This was achieved through a V1 to common carotid artery end-to-side anastomosis. The end-to-side anastomosis was performed with the first stitch after the heel stich placed to the inside of the vessel, and the back wall was run from the inside. The anastomosis was completed by running along the front wall from the external surface of the arteries. The anastomosis was flushed by temporary removal of the proximal carotid artery clamp. The anastomotic suture was then tied, and clamps were removed. The patient gave informed consent for surgery and video recording. Institutional review board approval was deemed unnecessary. Used with permission from Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona.
Banks’ Risk Dynamics and Distance to Default
Authors: Nagel Stefan , Purnanandam Amiyatosh
Published: October 2019

We adapt structural models of default risk to take into account the special nature of bank assets. The usual assumption of lognormally distributed asset values is not appropriate for banks. Typical bank assets are risky debt claims with concave payoffs. Because of the payoff nonlinearity, bank asset volatility rises following negative shocks to borrower asset values. As a result, standard structural models with constant asset volatility can severely understate banks’ default risk in good times when asset values are high. Additionally, bank equity return volatility is much more sensitive to negative shocks to asset values than in standard structural models.
Rumen CO2 species equilibrium might influence performance and be a factor in the pathogenesis of subacute ruminal acidosis
Authors: Laporte-Uribe José A
Published: October 2019

This experiment was conducted to explore rumen carbon dioxide (CO2) species equilibrium. Three lactating, fistulated cattle were consecutively exposed to three dietary treatments tailored to produce low rumen pH and increase the risk of subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) by reducing physically effective neutral detergent fiber (Low peNDF), increasing rumen degradable starch (High RDS) or both (Combined). Under these conditions, high and varied rumen concentrations of the CO2 associated to water or dissolved CO2 (dCO2) were found. The results suggest that the activity of dCO2 and bicarbonate (HCO3−) represents an important component of the rumen environment. Rumen CO2 holdup was associated with high dCO2 and HCO3− activity as well as changes in the viscosity and surface tension of the rumen fluid. All dietary treatments produced low rumen pH, <5.5 for >3 h/d, a condition associated with SARA, but clinical SARA was observed only during CO2 holdup. This pilot study highlights the possible role of CO2 holdup and rumen CO2 species in cattle performance and nutritional diseases. In the future, better estimations of CO2 species might help clarify these findings.
Genetic Interference Analysis Reveals that Both 3-Hydroxybenzoic Acid and 4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid Are Involved in Xanthomonadin Biosynthesis in the Phytopathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris
Authors: Cao Xue-Qiang , Ouyang Xing-Yu , Chen Bo , Song Kai , Zhou Lian , Jiang Bo-Le , Tang Ji-Liang , Ji Guanghai , Poplawsky Alan R. , He Ya-Wen
Published: October 2019

A characteristic feature of phytopathogenic Xanthomonas bacteria is the production of yellow membrane-bound pigments called xanthomonadins. Previous studies showed that 3-hydroxybenzoic acid (3-HBA) was a xanthomonadin biosynthetic intermediate and also, that it had a signaling role. The question of whether the structural isomers 4-HBA and 2-HBA (salicylic acid) have any role in xanthomonadin biosynthesis remained unclear. In this study, we have selectively eliminated 3-HBA, 4-HBA, or the production of both by expression of the mhb, pobA, and pchAB gene clusters in the Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris strain XC1. The resulting strains were different in pigmentation, virulence factor production, and virulence. These results suggest that both 3-HBA and 4-HBA are involved in xanthomonadin biosynthesis. When both 3-HBA and 4-HBA are present, X. campestris pv. campestris prefers 3-HBA for Xanthomonadin-A biosynthesis; the 3-HBA–derived Xanthomonadin-A was predominant over the 4-HBA–derived xanthomonadin in the wild-type strain XC1. If 3-HBA is not present, then 4-HBA is used for biosynthesis of a structurally uncharacterized Xanthomonadin-B. Salicylic acid had no effect on xanthomonadin biosynthesis. Interference with 3-HBA and 4-HBA biosynthesis also affected X. campestris pv. campestris virulence factor production and reduced virulence in cabbage and Chinese radish. These findings add to our understanding of xanthomonadin biosynthetic mechanisms and further help to elucidate the biological roles of xanthomonadins in X. campestris pv. campestris adaptation and virulence in host plants.
Noncoding RNAs in Atrial Fibrillation: Current Status and Prospect
Authors: Zhou Dongchen , Yang Kun , Hu Jingjing , Shi Jiaran , Hu Xiaosheng
Published: October 2019

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an important cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Current therapies for AF are ineffective, mainly due to incomplete understanding of the pathogenesis of AF. Atrial remodeling contributes to the occurrence and progression of AF, but molecular mechanisms underlying AF remain unclear. Noncoding RNAs, including microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs and circular RNAs, are now considered to play an important role in the pathophysiology of AF. In this review, we summarize recent evidence supporting the role of noncoding RNAs in AF and highlight their diagnostic and prognostic applications as potential biomarkers and therapeutic strategies.
Association between soft drink consumption and osteoporotic fractures among postmenopausal women: the Women's Health Initiative
Authors: Kremer Pedro A. , Laughlin Gail A. , Shadyab Aladdin H. , Crandall Carolyn J. , Masaki Kamal , Orchard Tonya , LaCroix Andrea Z.
Published: October 2019

Objective:

High consumption of soft drinks has been associated with lower bone mineral density among postmenopausal women. This study explores the association of soft drink consumption, osteoporosis, and incidental fractures in this population.

Methods:

Cross-sectional (at baseline) and cohort combined designs, over 11.9 years of median follow-up for 72,342 postmenopausal women participating in the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study. Multiple linear regression models were used to examine the cross-sectional associations between soft drink consumption and hip and lumbar spine bone mineral density. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to examine the association of soft drink consumption with incident hip fractures.

Results:

There were no associations between soft drink consumption and hip or lumbar spine t scores. During 700,388 person-years of follow-up, 2,578 hip fractures occurred. Adjusted hazard ratios for incident hip fracture for the highest consumption category compared with no consumption were 1.26 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.56) for total soda and 1.32 (95% CI 1.00-1.75) for caffeine-free soda. There was no association between caffeinated soda and incident hip fracture (hazard ratio = 1.16; 95% CI 0.86-1.57). There was no apparent linear trend in the risk of hip fracture across categories of soda consumption in the fully adjusted models, suggesting a threshold effect. A sensitivity analysis using adjudicated hip fractures showed significant associations for all three soda exposures in the highest intake groups.

Conclusions:

Consuming more than two servings of soft drinks per day on average showed potential associations with higher risk of hip fracture among postmenopausal women.
Characterizing Insertion Pressure Profiles During Cochlear Implantation: Simultaneous Fluoroscopy and Intracochlear Pressure Measurements
Authors: Gonzalez Joseph R. , Cass Nathan D. , Banakis Hartl Renee M. , Peacock John , Cass Stephen P. , Greene Nathaniel T.
Published: October 2019

Background:

Combined electrical-acoustical stimulation (EAS) has gained popularity as patients with residual hearing are increasingly undergoing cochlear implantation. Preservation of residual hearing correlates with hearing outcomes, but loss of hearing occurs in a subset of these patients. Several mechanisms have been proposed as causing this hearing loss; we have previously described high amplitude pressure transients, equivalent to high-level noise exposures, in the inner ear during electrode insertion. The source of these transients has not been identified.

Methods:

Cadaveric human heads were prepared with an extended facial recess. Fiber-optic pressure sensors were inserted into the scala vestibuli and scala tympani to measure intracochlear pressures. Two cochlear implant (CI) electrode styles (straight and perimodiolar) were inserted during time-synced intracochlear pressures and video fluoroscopy measurements.

Results:

CI electrode insertions produced pressure transients in the cochlea up to 160 to 170 dB pSPL equivalent for both styles, consistent with previous results. However, the position of the electrode within the cochlea when transients were generated differed (particularly contact with the medial or lateral walls).

Conclusions:

These results begin to elucidate the insertion pressure profiles of CI electrodes, which can be used to improve CI electrode designs and facilitate “silent-insertions” to improve chances of hearing preservation.
Characterizing Iranian Pediatric Patients With Relapsed Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia Through Gene Expression Profiling of Common ATP Binding Cassette Transporters Subfamily C
Authors: Mehrvar Narjes , Abolghasemi Hassan , Rezvany Mohammad R. , Akbari Mohammad E. , Saberynejad Javad , Mehrvar Azim , Movafagh Abolfazl
Published: October 2019

Background:

The correlation between gene expression of ABCC transporters and recurrence as a treatment failure in pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is an unsolved problem in scientific associations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive value of ABCC1-6 gene expression pattern for estimating recurrence in Iranian pediatric patients with ALL.

Materials and Methods:

Iranian pediatric patients with approved ALL enrolled in this study as 2 groups of case (relapsed ALL) and control (treated individuals who lasted for >3 years following their final treatment). Real-time polymerase chain reaction was done with GAPDH for expressing ABCC1-6 transporter genes. Cumulative doses of Vincristine, Daunorubicin, and L-Asparginase were checked for each patient. Gathered data analyzed with SPSS version 22 and REST 2009 software.

Results:

Thirty-nine samples as 23 relapsed ALL and 16 controls enrolled. High expression of ABCC2-6 and low expression of ABCC1 were detected in pediatric patients with relapse. ABCC3 and ABCC4 had significant relation with high-risk patients of NCI group. Also, ABCC4 and ABCC6 had more expression with high doses of Daunorubicin and L-Asparginase.

Conclusions:

Designed expression pattern have the predictive value for estimating of conferring relapse in Iranian pediatric patients with diagnosed ALL. The authors suggest of designing a multiple childhood malignancy center project to evaluate this pattern in a cohort study.
Mechanistic insights into heterogeneous radiofrequency ablation effects at the left atrial posterior wall during pulmonary vein isolation
Authors: Tomlinson David R.
Published: October 2019

Background

Independent investigations demonstrate greater radiofrequency (RF) ablation effects at left- sided left atrial posterior wall (LAPW) sites.

Objective

To investigate mechanisms underlying RF ablation heterogeneity during contact-force (CF) and VISITAG™ Module (Biosense Webster)-guided pulmonary vein isolation (PVI).

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing PVI during atrial overdrive pacing comprised 2 cohorts: intermittent positive pressure ventilation (IPPV, 14-16/min, 6-8ml/kg); high frequency jet ventilation (HFJV, 150/min, Monsoon III, Acutronic). Temperature-controlled (17ml/min, 48°C) RF data was retrospectively assessed at first-annotated (target 15s) LAPW sites: 30W during IPPV; 20W at left-sided sites during HFJV.

Results

Twenty-five and 15 patients underwent PVI during IPPV and HFJV, respectively. During IPPV, left versus right-sided median impedance drop (ImpD) was 13.6Ω versus 9.9Ω (p<0.0001) respectively and mean time to pure R unipolar electrogram (UE) morphology change 4.9s versus 6.7s (p=0.007) respectively. During HFJV, ImpD was greater at left-sided sites (9.7Ω versus 7.4Ω, p=0.21) and time to pure R UE significantly shorter: 4.3s versus 6.1s (p=0.02). Minimum case impedance subtracted from pre-RF baseline impedance (BI) generated site-specific ΔBI. Left-sided sites demonstrated significantly greater ΔBI, correlating strongly with Ln(ImpD) – IPPV r=0.84 (0.65 – 0.93), HFJV r=0.77 (0.35 – 0.93).

At right-sided sites, ΔBI and Ln(ImpD) were without correlation during IPPV, but correlation was modest during HFJV (r=0.54, -0.007 – 0.84).

Conclusions

ΔBI may usefully indicate catheter-tissue contact surface area (SA). Consequently, greater left-sided LAPW RF effect may result from greater contact SA and in-phase catheter-tissue motion; HFJV may reduce right-sided out-of-phase catheter-tissue motion. Modifying RF delivery based on ΔBI may improve PVI safety and efficacy.