bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iron Availability Modulates the Response of Endosymbiotic Dinoflagellates to Heat Stress
Authors: Reich Hannah G. , Tu Wan‐Chen , Rodriguez Irene B. , Chou Yalan , Keister Elise F. , Kemp Dustin W. , LaJeunesse Todd C. , Ho Tung‐Yuan
Published: September 2020

Warming and nutrient limitation are stressors known to weaken the health of microalgae. In situations of stress, access to energy reserves can minimize physiological damage. Because of its widespread requirements in biochemical processes, iron is an important trace metal, especially for photosynthetic organisms. Lowered iron availability in oceans experiencing rising temperatures may contribute to the thermal sensitivity of reef‐building corals, which rely on mutualisms with dinoflagellates to survive. To test the influence of iron concentration on thermal sensitivity, the physiological responses of cultured symbiotic dinoflagellates (genusBreviolum; family Symbiodiniaceae) were evaluated when exposed to increasing temperatures (26 to 30°C) and iron concentrations ranging from replete (500 pM Fe’) to limiting (50 pM Fe’) under a diurnal light cycle with saturating radiance. Declines in photosynthetic efficiency at elevated temperatures indicated sensitivity to heat stress. Furthermore, five times the amount of iron was needed to reach exponential growth during heat stress (50 pM Fe′ at 26–28°C vs. 250 pM Fe′ at 30°C). In treatments where exponential growth was reached,Breviolum psygmophilumgrew faster thanB.minutum, possibly due to greater cellular contents of iron and other trace metals. The metal composition ofB.psygmophilumshifted only at the highest temperature (30°C), whereas changes inB.minutumwere observed at lower temperatures (28°C). The influence of iron availability in modulating each alga’s response to thermal stress suggests the importance of trace metals to the health of coral‐algal mutualisms. Ultimately, a greater ability to acquire scarce metals may improve the tolerance of corals to physiological stressors and contribute to the differences in performance associated with hosting one symbiont species over another.
A functional analysis of mitochondrial respiratory chain cytochrome bc1 complex in Gaeumannomyces tritici by RNA silencing as a possible target of carabrone
Authors: Wang Mei , Ren Xingyu , Wang Lanying , Lu Xiang , Han Lirong , Zhang Xing , Feng Juntao
Published: September 2020

Gaeumannomyces tritici, an ascomycete soilborne fungus, causes a devastating root disease in wheat. Carabrone, a botanical bicyclic sesquiterpenic lactone, is a promising fungicidal agent that can effectively control G. tritici. However, the mechanism of action of carabrone against G. tritici remains largely unclear. Here, we used immunogold for subcellular localization of carabrone and the results showed that carabrone is subcellularly localized in the mitochondria of G. tritici. We then explored the functional analysis of genes GtCytc1, GtCytb, and GtIsp of the mitochondrial respiratory chain cytochrome bc1 complex in G. tritici by RNA silencing as a possible target of carabrone. The results showed that the silenced mutant ∆GtIsp is less sensitive to carabrone compared to ∆GtCytc1 and ∆GtCytb. Compared with the control, the activities of complex III in all the strains, except ∆GtIsp and carabrone‐resistant isolate 24‐HN‐1, were significantly decreased following treatment with carabrone at EC20 and EC80 in vitro (40%–50% and 70%–80%, respectively). The activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complex III and the mitochondrial respiration oxygen consumption rates in all the strains, except ∆GtIsp and 24‐HN‐1, were higher with respect to the control when treated with carabrone at EC20 in vivo. The rates of mitochondrial respiration of all strains, except ∆GtIsp, were significantly inhibited following treatment with carabrone at EC80 (ranging from 57% to 81%). This study reveals that the targeting of the iron–sulphur protein encoded by GtIsp is highly sensitive to carabrone and provides a direction for the research of carabrone's target.
Timed barium swallow for assessing long‐term treatment response in patients with achalasia: Absolute cutoff versus percent change – A cross‐sectional analytic study
Authors: Blonski Wojciech , Kumar Ambuj , Feldman John , Richter Joel E.
Published: September 2020

Background

Timed barium swallow (TBS) assesses esophageal emptying before and after therapy in patients with achalasia. Our aim was to compare the accuracy of percent change in barium height with traditional absolute cutoff of <5 cm on post‐treatment TBS.

Materials and Methods

Consecutive patients with treatment naïve achalasia treated with either PD, HM, or POEM between 1/2012 and 7/2017 were eligible for inclusion. The accuracy of percent change in pre‐ and post‐treatment barium height at 5 minutes versus an absolute <5 cm cutoff for assessing treatment response was assessed using the receiver operating curve analysis (ROC).

Results

Eighty‐one patients met the inclusion criteria. The median percent change in barium heights at five minutes in patients who did not improve was 6 percent increase (n = 10; mean 10.6) versus 78 percent decrease (n = 71; mean 64) in patients who improved (P = 0.0001). The AUC for percent change in TBS 5 minutes height was 76% (95% CI 48% to 90%), and a 3% decrease from baseline as a cutoff had a sensitivity of 60% and specificity of 99%. The AUC for post‐treatment TBS 5 minutes height was 79% (95% CI 53% to 91%), and the 5 cm cutoff had a sensitivity of 70% and specificity of 75%.

Conclusions

The results show that 3% percent improvement in pre‐ and post‐treatment barium height at 5 minutes rather than absolute cutoff value of <5 cm on post‐treatment TBS is a better indicator of treatment success in achalasia patients. These findings indicate the need for reassessment of tools to identify treatment response.
Image intensifier as an auxiliary tool in the retrieval of an orthodontic band in the coronoid process: a case report
Authors: de Figueiredo Eugênia Leal , de Arruda José Alcides Almeida , Monteiro João Luiz Gomes Carneiro , de Araújo Bruna Luna , Neres Bruno José Carvalho Macêdo , Caubi Antônio de Figueiredo , Vasconcellos Ricardo José de Holanda
Published: September 2020

Displacement of orthodontic appliances to the fascial spaces and segments of the airways during orthognathic surgery is rare; however, it may cause potential complications to the patients. Additionally, the removal of foreign bodies in the maxillofacial region can be a great challenge. Herein, we describe a case of a 43‐year‐old female patient with an orthodontic band displaced to the coronoid process during orthognathic surgery. In addition, the indications, treatments and outcomes of the image intensifier used in maxillofacial surgery were discussed. The object was successfully removed using an image intensifier, which allowed real‐time visualization of the displaced appliance while using a haemostat to remove it through a conservative surgical wound. This article reports on a viable and safe method of a navigation system for the removal of foreign bodies in the region of the coronoid process. Maxillofacial surgeons should introduce this technique in selected cases in order to ensure safe and minimally invasive surgery.
Luminal preloading with hydrogen‐rich saline ameliorates ischemia‐reperfusion injury following intestinal transplantation in rats
Authors: Yamamoto Hirotsugu , Aokage Toshiyuki , Igawa Takuro , Hirayama Takahiro , Seya Mizuki , Ishikawa‐Aoyama Michiko , Nojima Tsuyoshi , Nakao Atsunori , Naito Hiromichi
Published: September 2020

Prolonged intestinal cold storage causes considerable mucosal breakdown, which could bolster bacterial translocation and cause life‐threatening infection for the transplant recipient. The intestine has an intraluminal compartment, which could be a target for intervention, but has not yet been fully investigated. Hydrogen gas exerts organ protection and has used been recently in several clinical and basic research studies on topics including intestinal transplantation. In this study, we aimed to investigate the cytoprotective efficacy of intraluminally administered hydrogen‐rich saline on cold IR injury in intestinal transplantation. Isogeneic intestinal transplantation with 6 hours of cold ischemia was performed on Lewis rats. Hydrogen‐rich saline (H2 concentration at 5 ppm) or normal saline was intraluminally introduced immediately before preservation. Graft intestine was excised 3 hours after reperfusion and analyzed. Histopathological analysis of control grafts revealed blunting of the villi and erosion. These mucosal changes were notably attenuated by intraluminal hydrogen. Intestinal mucosa damage caused by IR injury led to considerable deterioration of gut barrier function 3 h post‐reperfusion. However, this decline in permeability was critically prevented by hydrogen treatment. IR‐induced upregulation of proinflammatory cytokine mRNAs such as IL‐6 was mitigated by hydrogen treatment. Western blot revealed that hydrogen treatment regulated loss of the transmembrane protein ZO‐1. Hydrogen‐rich saline intraluminally administered in the graft intestine modulated IR injury to transplanted intestine in rats. Successful abrogation of intestinal IR injury with a novel strategy using intraluminal hydrogen may be easily clinically applicable and will compellingly improve patient care after transplantation.
The highest Fuhrman and WHO/ISUP grade influences the Ki‐67 labeling index of those of grades 1 and 2 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Murase Yota , Iwata Hidehiro , Takahara Taishi , Tsuzuki Toyonori
Published: September 2020

Nuclear grade is one of the most important prognostic factors in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (CCRCC). Although CCRCCs usually have intratumoral heterogeneity with various nuclear atypia including nucleolar prominence, it is unclear whether a similar degree of nuclear grade component demonstrates the same proliferative activity. We aimed to reveal whether the presence of a higher nuclear grade has an effect on proliferative activity among each assigned nuclear grade in CCRCCs. We enrolled 129 CCRCC patients containing at least two different nuclear grades. We separately assessed nuclear grade using the Fuhrman and World Health Organization and International Society of Urologic Pathologists (WHO/ISUP) grading systems. In addition, we selected blocks containing different nuclear grade and assessed the Ki‐67 labeling index (LI) for each using a computer‐based analysis system. Ki‐67 LIs significantly correlated with both Fuhrman and WHO/ISUP grades (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001). Of note, the LIs among Fuhrman and WHO/ISUP grades 1 and 2 were also statistically significant according to the highest nuclear grade (P < 0.01 for both grades 1 and 2). Our data suggests that the highest nuclear grade influences the proliferative activity in tumor components regardless of the morphologically assigned nuclear grades. The exact evaluation of Ki‐67 LI in CCRCC can provide a more precise information of the malignant potential.
Automatic facial reactions to facial, body, and vocal expressions: A stimulus‐response compatibility study
Authors: Shaham Galit , Mortillaro Marcello , Aviezer Hillel
Published: September 2020

When perceiving emotional facial expressions there is an automatic tendency to react with a matching facial expression. A classic explanation of this phenomenon, termed the matched motor hypothesis, highlights the importance of topographic matching, that is, the correspondence in body parts, between perceived and produced actions. More recent studies using mimicry paradigms have challenged this classic account, producing ample evidence against the matched motor hypothesis. However, research using stimulus‐response compatibility (SRC) paradigms usually assumed the effect relies on topographic matching. While mimicry and SRC share some characteristics, critical differences between the paradigms suggest conclusions cannot be simply transferred from one to another. Thus, our aim in the present study was to directly test the matched motor hypothesis using SRC. Specifically, we investigated whether observing emotional body postures or hearing emotional vocalizations produces a tendency to respond with one's face, despite completely different motor actions being involved. In three SRC experiments, participants were required to either smile or frown in response to a color cue, presented concurrently with stimuli of happy and angry facial (experiment 1), body (experiment 2), or vocal (experiment 3) expressions. Reaction times were measured using facial EMG. Whether presenting facial, body, or vocal expressions, we found faster responses in compatible, compared to incompatible trials. These results demonstrate that the SRC effect of emotional expressions does not require topographic matching. Our findings question interpretations of previous research and suggest further examination of the matched motor hypothesis.
Anticipating touch: Haptic geographies of Grindr encounters in Newcastle‐upon‐Tyne, UK
Authors: Bonner‐Thompson Carl
Published: September 2020

This paper explores the haptic geographies of embodied, material, and spatial anticipations of offline erotic encounters that Grindr users have in their homes. I explore how touch and place are co‐constituted, arguing that men who use Grindr are learning how to negotiate their erotic Grindr practices through anticipations, identities, and the places that encounters are situated.
Pharmacogenomics with red cells: a model to study protein variants of drug transporter genes
Authors: Flegel Willy Albert , Srivastava Kshitij , Sissung Tristan Michael , Goldspiel Barry Ronald , Figg William Douglas
Published: September 2020

The PharmacoScan pharmacogenomics platform screens for variation in genes that affect drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination, immune adverse reactions and targets. Among the 1,191 genes tested on the platform, 12 genes are expressed in the red cell membrane: ABCC1, ABCC4, ABCC5, ABCG2, CFTR, SLC16A1, SLC19A1, SLC29A1, ATP7A, CYP4F3, EPHX1 and FLOT1. These genes represent 5 ATP‐binding cassette proteins, 3 solute carrier proteins, 1 ATP transport protein and 3 genes associated with drug metabolism and adverse drug reactions. Only ABCG2 and SLC29A1 encode blood group systems, JR and AUG, respectively. We propose red cells as an ex vivo model system to study the effect of heritable variants in genes encoding the transport proteins on the pharmacokinetics of drugs. Altered pharmacodynamics in red cells could also cause adverse reactions, such as haemolysis, hitherto unexplained by other mechanisms.
Artificial intelligence evaluating primary thoracic lesions has an overall lower error rate compared to veterinarians or veterinarians in conjunction with the artificial intelligence
Authors: Boissady Emilie , de La Comble Alois , Zhu Xiaojuan , Hespel Adrien‐Maxence
Published: September 2020

To date, deep learning technologies have provided powerful decision support systems to radiologists in human medicine. The aims of this retrospective, exploratory study were to develop and describe an artificial intelligence able to screen thoracic radiographs for primary thoracic lesions in feline and canine patients. Three deep learning networks using three different pretraining strategies to predict 15 types of primary thoracic lesions were created (including tracheal collapse, left atrial enlargement, alveolar pattern, pneumothorax, and pulmonary mass). Upon completion of pretraining, the algorithms were provided with over 22 000 thoracic veterinary radiographs for specific training. All radiographs had a report created by a board‐certified veterinary radiologist used as the gold standard. The performances of all three networks were compared to one another. An additional 120 radiographs were then evaluated by three types of observers: the best performing network, veterinarians, and veterinarians aided by the network. The error rates for each of the observers was calculated as an overall and for the 15 labels and were compared using a McNemar's test. The overall error rate of the network was significantly better than the overall error rate of the veterinarians or the veterinarians aided by the network (10.7% vs 16.8% vs17.2%, P = .001). The network's error rate was significantly better to detect cardiac enlargement and for bronchial pattern. The current network only provides help in detecting various lesion types and does not provide a diagnosis. Based on its overall very good performance, this could be used as an aid to general practitioners while waiting for the radiologist's report.
Single-band Zigzag Dipole Artificial Magnetic Conductor
Authors: Abu M. , Rahim M. K. A.
Published: September 2020

A new Artificial Magnetic Conductor (AMC) structure called zigzag dipole is discussed. Based on the 0.92GHz straight dipole AMC, the zigzag dipole AMC operating at 0.92GHz, 2.45GHz and 5.8GHz are carried out using TLC-32 and RF-35 boards. This AMC structure is designed based on the characterization of a unit cell using a transient solver of Computer Simulation Technology (CST) software. The simulated results such as the reflection phase, reflection magnitude, surface impedance, bandgap and electric field for each single-band AMC are presented in this paper. From the results gained it shows that, the bandwidth of the AMC will increase when the frequency is increased. It is also proved that these AMC are not providing the bandgap at their resonance. The zigzag dipole AMC is carried out to minimize the AMC size and to be suitable for UHF RFID applications.
UWB Wearable Textile Antenna
Authors: Osman Mai A. R. , Rahim M. K. A. , Samsuri N. A. , Elbasheer M. K. , Ali M. E.
Published: September 2020

In this work, UWB planer monopole antennas with partial ground plane are designed, fabricated andpresented. The substrate of the designed antennas are made from different types of substrate fabricmaterials (flannel and jeans) while the radiating element and ground plane are made from copper selfadhesivesheet. The operating frequency of the current manuscript designs spans from 2 GHz up to 15GHz. Measured results are compared with simulations and good agreement was observed. Resultsindicated the suitability of using flexible fabric materials for wearable applications instead of rigidsubstrate board materials.
A Review of Integrated Optical and Wireless Broadband Acess Networks
Authors: Mohammad S. H. , Zulkifli N. , Idrus S. M.
Published: September 2020

Broadband access network nowadays has obtained increasing attention among internet users. High bandwidth demands and the need on mobility of the network cause the network design and architectures to be part of the hot topics in the research area. Wireline optical and wireless networks are two different architectures of broadband access network which offer advantages over each other. High capacity optical network integrated with tetherless wireless network enables high-speed communications to mobile users at anytime and anywhere. This paper defines integrated optical wireless broadband access network, outlines the architectures of different network models, the features and key issues of the network.
Adaptive Global Stability of Nonlinear Pure-Feedback Systems With Unknown Time-Varying Delays
Authors: Guo Jun , Wang Yao , Bo Yuming
Published: September 2020

This paper investigates the backstepping control problem for nonlinear pure-feedback systems with time-varying delays. A virtual controller is designed to counteract the effects caused by the state perturbation of time delay, and improve the stability of the system. The assumption on delay-dependent nonlinearities is further relaxed by a backstepping auxiliary controller and a Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional. A suitable coordinate transformation is introduced to reduce the complexity of computation caused by nonaffine structures. The globally uniform boundedness of the closed-loop signals and the asymptotical stability of the state are proved by Lyapunov–Krasovskii stability theory. Finally, the effectiveness of our method is demonstrated by two illustrations.
Minimizing the Effects of On-Chip Hotspots Using Multi-Objective Optimization of Flow Distribution in Water-Cooled Parallel Microchannel Heatsinks
Authors: Hadad Yaser , Radmard Vahideh , Rangarajan Srikanth , Farahikia Mahdi , Refai-Ahmed Gamal , Chiarot Paul R. , Sammakia Bahgat
Published: September 2020

The industry shift to multicore microprocessor architecture will likely cause higher temperature nonuniformity on chip surfaces, exacerbating the problem of chip reliability and lifespan. While advanced cooling technologies like two phase embedded cooling exist, the technological risks of such solutions make conventional cooling technologies more desirable. One such solution is remote cooling with heatsinks with sequential conduction resistance from chip to module. The objective of this work is to numerically demonstrate a novel concept to remotely cool chips with hotspots and maximize chip temperature uniformity using an optimized flow distribution under constrained geometric parameters for the heatsink. The optimally distributed flow conditions presented here are intended to maximize the heat transfer from a nonuniform chip power map by actively directing flow to a hotspot region. The hotspot-targeted parallel microchannel liquid cooling design is evaluated against a baseline uniform flow conventional liquid cooling design for the industry pressure drop limit of approximately 20 kPa. For an average steady-state heat flux of 145 W/cm2 on core areas (hotspots) and 18 W/cm2 on the remaining chip area (background), the chip temperature uniformity is improved by 10%. Moreover, the heatsink design has improved chip temperature uniformity without a need for any additional system level complexity, which also reduces reliability risks.
Aging and Fatigue of Aerosol Jet-Printed Nano-Ag Traces on Flexible Substrate
Authors: Raj Arun , Sivasubramony Rajesh Sharma , Yadav Manu , Thekkut Sanoop , Khinda Gurvinder Singh , Alhendi Mohammed , Poliks Mark D. , Borgesen Peter
Published: September 2020

Conducting traces on a flexible substrate often have to survive significant and repeated deformation, making their fatigue resistance and the stability of it during long-term storage and use a potential concern. The question of stability is obvious in the case of, for example, screen or ink jet-printed traces where the organic matrix remains a critical part of the structure. We show it also to be important for nano-Ag traces that are sintered to ensure metallic bonding between the particles while eliminating most of the organics. We also show conventional accelerated aging tests to be potentially confusing or misleading for such traces, depending among other on practical limitations on sintering conditions. Examples are presented of how the fatigue resistance of application relevant aerosol jet-printed nano-Ag traces may degrade relatively rapidly at moderate temperatures. Even after “optimized” sintering at a much higher temperature subsequent aging at 75 °C for only 100 h led to an order of magnitude reduction in the fatigue life in subsequent mild cycling. The rate of degradation is certain to vary with the design and the ink used as well as with sintering conditions, making it important to account for it all in materials selection, process optimization, and assessments of practical life.
Design and Testing of a Rig to Investigate Buoyancy-Induced Heat Transfer in Aero-Engine Compressor Rotors
Authors: Luberti Dario , Patinios Marios , Jackson Richard W. , Tang Hui , Pountney Oliver J. , Scobie James A. , Sangan Carl M. , Owen J. Michael , Lock Gary D.
Published: September 2020

The change in compressor blade-tip clearance across the flight cycle depends on the expansion of the rotor, which in turn depends on the temperature and stress in the disks. The radial distribution of temperature is directly coupled to the buoyancy-driven flow and heat transfer in the rotating disk cavities. This paper describes a new test rig specifically designed to investigate this conjugate phenomenon. The rig test section includes four rotating disks enclosing three cavities. Two disks in the central cavity are instrumented with thermocouples to provide the radial distribution of temperature; the two outer cavities are thermally insulated to create appropriate boundary conditions for the heat transfer analysis. An axial throughflow of air is supplied between a stationary shaft and the bore of the disks. The temperature of the throughflow air is measured by thermocouples in rakes upstream and downstream of the central cavity. For a cold throughflow, the outer shroud of the central cavity is heated. Two independently controlled radiant heaters allow differential shroud temperatures for the upstream and downstream disks, as found in aero-engine compressors. Alternatively, the throughflow can be heated above the shroud temperature to simulate the transient conditions during engine operation where stratified flow can occur inside the cavity. The rig is designed to operate in conditions where both convective and radiative heat transfer dominate; all internal surfaces of the cavity are painted matt black to allow the accurate calculation of the radiant heat transfer. Separate attachments can be fitted to the cobs of both central disks; the attachments reduce the axial gap between the cobs—reducing the gap to zero creates a closed cavity, which can occur in some compressor designs. Other instrumentation includes heat-flux gages on the shroud and high-frequency pressure transducers embedded into the disk diaphragm to capture unsteady flow structures. Attention has been given to experimental uncertainty, including the computation of the thermal-disturbance errors, caused by thermocouples embedded in the rotating disks; a Bayesian statistical model is used to reduce the effect of uncertainties in temperature measurements on the calculation of the Nusselt number. The effect of relevant nondimensional parameters on the radial distribution of the disk and throughflow temperatures has been shown for some typical cases.
Impact of the Precessing Vortex Core on NOx Emissions in Premixed Swirl-Stabilized Flames—An Experimental Study
Authors: Lückoff Finn , Sieber Moritz , Paschereit Christian Oliver , Oberleithner Kilian
Published: September 2020

The reduction of NOx emissions remains a driving factor in the design process of swirl-stabilized combustion systems, to meet legislative restrictions. In reacting swirl flows, hydrodynamic coherent structures, such as periodic large-scale vortices in the shear layer, induce zones with increased heat release rate fluctuations in connection with temperature peaks, which lead to an increase of NOx emissions. Such large-scale vortices can be induced by the helical coherent structure known as precessing vortex core (PVC), which influences the flow and flame dynamics under certain operating conditions. We developed an active flow control system, allowing for a targeted actuation of the PVC, to investigate its impact on combustion properties such as NOx emissions. In this work, a perfectly premixed flame, which slightly damps the PVC, is studied in detail. Since the PVC is slightly damped, it can be precisely excited by means of open-loop flow control. In connection with time-resolved OH*-chemiluminescence and stereoscopic particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurements, the impact of the actuated PVC on flow and flame dynamics is characterized. It turns out that the PVC rolls up the inner shear layer, which results in an interaction of PVC-induced vortices and flame. This interaction considerably influences the measured level of NOx emissions, which grows with increasing PVC amplitude in a perfectly premixed flame. Nearly, the same increase is measured for partially premixed conditions. This is in contrast to previous studies, where the PVC is assumed to reduce the NOx emissions due to vortex-enhanced mixing.
Short-Term, Combined Fasting and Exercise Improves Body Composition in Healthy Males
Authors: delli Paoli Giuseppe , van de Laarschot Denise , Friesema Edith C.H. , Verkaik Remco , Giacco Antonia , Senese Rosalba , Arp Pascal P. , Jhamai P. Mila , Pagnotta Stefano M. , Broer Linda , Uitterlinden André G. , Lanni Antonia , Zillikens M. Carola , de Lange Pieter
Published: September 2020

Fasting enhances the beneficial metabolic outcomes of exercise; however, it is unknown whether body composition is favorably modified on the short term. A baseline–follow-up study was carried out to assess the effect of an established protocol involving short-term combined exercise with fasting on body composition. One hundred seven recreationally exercising males underwent a 10-day intervention across 15 fitness centers in the Netherlands involving a 3-day gradual decrease of food intake, a 3-day period with extremely low caloric intake, and a gradual 4-day increase to initial caloric intake, with daily 30-min submaximal cycling. Using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry analysis, all subjects substantially lost total body mass (−3.9 ± 1.9 kg; p < .001) and fat mass (−3.3 ± 1.3 kg; p < .001). Average lean mass was lost (−0.6 ± 1.5 kg; p < .001), but lean mass as a percentage of total body mass was not reduced. The authors observed a loss of −3.9 ± 1.9% android fat over total fat mass (p < .001), a loss of −2.2 ± 1.9% gynoid over total fat mass (p < .001), and reduced android/gynoid ratios (−0.05 ± 0.1; p < .001). Analyzing 15 preselected single-nucleotide polymorphisms in 13 metabolism-related genes revealed trending associations for thyroid state–related single-nucleotide polymorphisms rs225014 (deiodinase 2) and rs35767 (insulin-like growth factor1), and rs1053049 (PPARD). In conclusion, a short period of combined fasting and exercise leads to a substantial loss of body and fat mass without a loss of lean mass as a percentage of total mass.
Global approaches to genomic medicine implementation
Authors: Belcher Andrea , Ginsburg Geoffrey S. , Ward Robyn
Published: September 2020

A snapshot of implementation initiatives worldwide illustrates the need for collaboration to realize the full potential of genomic medicine.
Blockade of immune checkpoints in lymph nodes through locoregional delivery augments cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Francis David M. , Manspeaker Margaret P. , Schudel Alex , Sestito Lauren F. , O’Melia Meghan J. , Kissick Haydn T. , Pollack Brian P. , Waller Edmund K. , Thomas Susan N.
Published: September 2020

Anticancer therapeutic effects can be improved by directing immune checkpoint blockade antibodies to tumor-draining lymph nodes.
Efficacy of Three Antiretroviral Regimens Initiated during Pregnancy: Clinical Experience in Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Benamor Teixeira Maria de Lourdes , Fuller Trevon L. , Fragoso Da Silveira Gouvêa Maria Isabel , Santos Cruz Maria Letícia , Ceci Loredana , Pinheiro Lattanzi Fellipe , Sidi Leon Claude , Mendes-Silva Wallace , Nielsen-Saines Karin , Joao Esau Custodio
Published: September 2020

Few studies have compared the clinical efficacy and adverse events of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART) regimens in pregnant women seeking obstetrical care. The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy (virus load response), adverse events, and obstetrical and neonatal outcomes of three different regimens of cART in HIV-infected pregnant women initiating treatment in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This was a retrospective cohort study of cART-naive pregnant women who initiated either ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitors (atazanavir or lopinavir), efavirenz, or raltegravir plus a backbone regimen.
Genome Sequence of Bacillus megaterium O1, a Saponin-Degrading Bacterium
Authors: Overney Cassandra E. , Huang Jean J.
Published: September 2020

Bacillus megaterium
strain O1 was isolated from a soapnut (
Sapindus saponaria
) surface and degrades
Quillaja
saponin as a sole carbon source. We report the draft genome sequence of
B. megaterium
O1, which has an estimated size of 5.1 Mb. Study of this isolate will provide insight into mechanisms of saponin degradation.
Metagenome-Assembled Genome Sequences from an Anoxygenic Photosynthetic Consortium Involved in Sulfur Cycling
Authors: Winkler Lucia , Münker Marc F. , Brunotte Susanne , Rohlmann Lina , Diez Alfageme Alvaro , Poehlein Anja , Hoppert Michael , Reitner Joachim , Nacke Heiko
Published: September 2020

We sequenced the metagenome of an anoxygenic photosynthetic consortium originating from pond water and reconstructed four metagenome-assembled genomes. These genomes include
Desulfocapsa
,
Paludibacter
,
Lamprocystis
, and
Rhodocyclaceae
representatives and indicate the presence of genes for dissimilatory sulfate reduction and oxidation of reduced sulfur compounds.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Bdellovibrio
sp. Strain KM01, a Predatory Bacterium Isolated from Soil
Authors: Davis Sidney C. , Martinez Karla J. , Williams Laura E.
Published: September 2020

We report the complete genome sequence of the predatory bacterium
Bdellovibrio
sp. strain KM01, isolated from soil collected near a pond. The genome is 3,961,288 bp long with 45.5% GC content. Comparative genomics among
Bdellovibrio
strains will help us understand how genotypic differences affect differences in predatory phenotypes.
Accuracy of common IOL power formulas in 611 eyes based on axial length and corneal power ranges
Authors: Röggla Veronika , Langenbucher Achim , Leydolt Christina , Schartmüller Daniel , Schwarzenbacher Luca , Abela-Formanek Claudette , Menapace Rupert
Published: September 2020

Aims

To provide clinical guidance on the use of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulas according to the biometric parameters.

Methods

611 eyes that underwent cataract surgery were retrospectively analysed in subgroups according to the axial length (AL) and corneal power (K). The predicted residual refractive error was calculated and compared to evaluate the accuracy of the following formulas: Haigis, Hoffer Q, Holladay 1 and SRK/T. Furthermore, the percentages of eyes with ≤±0.25, ≤±0.5 and 1 dioptres (D) of the prediction error were recorded.

Results

The Haigis formula showed the highest percentage of cases with ≤0.5 D in eyes with a short AL and steep K (90%), average AL and steep cornea (73.2%) but also in long eyes with a flat and average K (65% and 72.7%, respectively). The Hoffer Q formula delivered the lowest median absolute error (MedAE) in short eyes with an average K (0.30 D) and Holladay 1 in short eyes with a steep K (Holladay 1 0.24 D). SRK/T presented the highest percentage of cases with ≤0.5 D in average long eyes with a flat and average K (80.5% and 68.1%, respectively) and the lowest MedAE in long eyes with an average K (0.29 D).

Conclusion

Overall, the Haigis formula shows accurate results in most subgroups. However, attention must be paid to the axial eye length as well as the corneal power when choosing the appropriate formula to calculate an IOL power, especially in eyes with an unusual biometry.
Consensus statements that fail to recognise dissent are flawed by design: a narrative review with 10 suggested improvements
Authors: Shrier Ian
Published: September 2020

Consensus statements have the potential to be very influential. Recently, such statements in sport and exercise medicine appear more prescriptive, strongly recommending particular approaches to research or treatment. In 2020, a statement on methods for reporting sport injury surveillance studies included an extension to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) reporting guidelines; STROBE guidelines are now official requirements for many journals. This suggests that investigators who use methods outside of these guidelines may have difficulty publishing their results. By definition, consensus is not unanimity, and consensus recommendations are sometimes considered flawed at a later date. This is expected as a discipline benefits from new knowledge. However, the consensus methods themselves may also inadvertently suppress contrary—but valid—opinions. I point to a different model for consensus meetings and statements that embraces dissenting opinions and is more transparent than common current methods in sport and exercise medicine. The method, based on how Supreme Courts function in many countries, allows for both majority and one or more minority opinions. I illustrate how a consensus statement might be written using examples from four previous sport and exercise medicine consensus statements. By adopting the ‘Supreme Court’ approach, important disagreements about the strength and interpretation of evidence will be far more visible than is currently the case in most consensus meetings. The benefit of the Supreme Court model is that it will ensure that clinicians, researchers and journals are not inappropriately influenced by recommendations from consensus statements where uncertainty remains.
Treat-to-target strategy with secukinumab as a first-line biological disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug compared to standard-of-care treatment in patients with active axial spondyloarthritis: protocol for a randomised open-label phase III study, AScalate
Authors: Poddubnyy Denis , Hammel Ludwig , Heyne Marvin , Veit Justyna , Jentzsch Claudia , Baraliakos Xenofon
Published: September 2020

Introduction

In patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), biological disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) are recommended to those with inadequate response or contraindications to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In case of failure of the first bDMARD, a switch within the class or to other bDMARD is recommended. Despite these treatment options, there is no optimal treat-to-target (T2T) strategy. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a T2T strategy in patients with axSpA, with secukinumab as a first-line bDMARD, compared with standard-of-care (SOC) treatment.

Methods and analyses

This is a randomised, parallel-group, open-label, multicentre ongoing study in patients with axSpA who are naïve to bDMARD and who have had an inadequate response to NSAIDs. The study will include an 8-week screening period, a 36-week treatment period and a 20-week safety follow-up period. At baseline, patients will be randomised (1:1) to T2T or SOC group. In the T2T group, patients will be treated with secukinumab 150 mg subcutaneous (s.c.) weekly until week 4 and then at week 8. For non-responders (patients without Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score [ASDAS] clinically important improvement; change from baseline ≥1.1) at week 12, dose will be escalated to 300 mg s.c. every 4 weeks until week 24. Non-responders at week 24 will be switched to adalimumab biosimilar 40 mg s.c. every 2 weeks until week 34. In the SOC group, patients will receive treatment at the discretion of the physician. The primary endpoint is the proportion of patients achieving an Assessment in SpondyloArthritis International Society 40% (ASAS40) response at week 24.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is being conducted as per the ethical principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and after approval from independent ethics committees/institutional review boards. The first results are expected to be published in early 2022.

Trial registration number

This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03906136.
Single postoperative infusion of zoledronic acid to improve patient-reported outcome after hip or knee replacement: study protocol for a randomised, controlled, double-blinded clinical trial
Authors: Brandt Jonathan , Ledin Håkan , Ranstam Jonas , Roos Ewa , Aspenberg Per , Schilcher Jörg
Published: September 2020

Introduction

In Sweden, roughly 3000 patients are reoperated each year due to pain and loss of function related to a loosened hip or knee prosthesis. These reoperations are strenuous for the patient, technically demanding and costly for the healthcare system. Any such reoperation that can be prevented would be of great benefit. Bisphosphonates are drugs that inhibit osteoclast function. Several clinical trials suggest that bisphosphonates lead to improved implant fixation and one small study even indicates better functional outcome. Furthermore, in epidemiological studies, bisphosphonates have been shown to decrease the rate of revision for aseptic loosening by half. Thus, there are several indirect indications that bisphosphonates could improve patient-reported outcome, but no firm evidence.

Methods and analysis

This is a pragmatic randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, academic clinical trial of a single postoperative dose of zoledronic acid, in patients younger than 80 years undergoing primary total hip or knee replacement for osteoarthritis. Participants will be recruited from two orthopaedic departments. All surgeries will be performed, and study drugs given at Motala Hospital, Sweden. The primary endpoint is to investigate between-group differences in the Hip dysfunction and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score and the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score at 3-year follow-up. Secondary outcomes will be investigated at 1 year, 3 years and 6 years, and stratified for hip and knee implants. These secondary endpoints are supportive, exploratory or explanatory. A total of 1000 patients will be included in the study.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the Regional Ethical Review Board in Linköping (DNR 2015/286-31). The study will be reported in accordance with the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement for pharmacological trials. The results will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed academic journals and disseminated to patient organisations and the media.

Trial registration number

EudraCT: No 2015-001200-55; Pre-results.
Morbidity and mortality associated with prescription cannabinoid drug use in COPD
Authors: Vozoris Nicholas T , Pequeno Priscila , Li Ping , Austin Peter C , Stephenson Anne L , O'Donnell Denis E , Gill Sudeep S , Gershon Andrea S , Rochon Paula A
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Respiratory-related morbidity and mortality were evaluated in relation to incident prescription oral synthetic cannabinoid (nabilone, dronabinol) use among older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Methods

This was a retrospective, population-based, data-linkage cohort study, analysing health administrative data from Ontario, Canada, from 2006 to 2016. We identified individuals aged 66 years and older with COPD, using a highly specific, validated algorithm, excluding individuals with malignancy and those receiving palliative care (n=185 876 after exclusions). An equivalent number (2106 in each group) of new cannabinoid users (defined as individuals dispensed either nabilone or dronabinol, with no dispensing for either drug in the year previous) and controls (defined as new users of a non-cannabinoid drug) were matched on 36 relevant covariates, using propensity scoring methods. Cox proportional hazard regression was used.

Results

Rate of hospitalisation for COPD or pneumonia was not significantly different between new cannabinoid users and controls (HR 0.87; 95% CI 0.61–1.24). However, significantly higher rates of all-cause mortality occurred among new cannabinoid users compared with controls (HR 1.64; 95% CI 1.14–2.39). Individuals receiving higher-dose cannabinoids relative to controls were observed to experience both increased rates of hospitalisation for COPD and pneumonia (HR 2.78; 95% CI 1.17–7.09) and all-cause mortality (HR 3.31; 95% CI 1.30–9.51).

Conclusions

New cannabinoid use was associated with elevated rates of adverse outcomes among older adults with COPD. Although further research is needed to confirm these observations, our findings should be considered in decisions to use cannabinoids among older adults with COPD.
Automatic soil identification from penetrometric signal by using artificial intelligence techniques
Authors: Sastre Carlos , Breul Pierre , Benz Navarette Miguel , Bacconnet Claude
Published: September 2020

Conventional geotechnical soil classifications aim to classify soils into families with geotechnical characteristics and therefore similar behaviour; however, they require core samples and laboratory identification testing. Several empirical systems for estimating the nature of the soils have been developed on the basis of several in situ geotechnical tests. However, at present these systems remain empirical and they are often only used on an indicative basis. The objective of this article is, based on the analysis of dynamic penetrometric signals, to develop a methodology able to provide an estimate of the nature of the soil crossed. The methodology developed provide an automatic classification based on artificial neuron networks (ANNs) tools. Two types of ANN architectures were considered: multi-layer feedforward perceptron (MFP) and probabilistic neural network (PNN). The learning of these two tools was achieved through a base carried out in the laboratory and in situ. Both classification models were then tested in blind conditions and showed a good efficiency for calibrated soils and promising results for in situ soils.
Effects of seed infection and hydration on the buildup of common bacterial blight and its impact on the yield of dry beans
Authors: Conner Robert L. , McRae Kenneth B. , Hwang Sheau-Fang , Strelkov Stephen , Sager Steven , Hou Anfu , Penner Waldo C. , Stoesz Dennis B. , Turnbull George D.
Published: September 2020

Common bacterial blight (CBB), caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. phaseoli (Xap), is a serious foliar disease in most of the dry bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) growing regions. A 4 yr study examined the effects of different sources of infection and seed hydration on CBB development, yield components, and yield in seven resistant or susceptible dry bean lines and cultivars. The five agronomic treatments examined included clean seed, diseased seed, hydrated diseased seed, clean seed with a Xap spray, and diseased seed with a Xap spray. Disease development, the yield components, and yield were strongly influenced by weather conditions. In comparison with the diseased-seed treatment, the use of clean (disease-free) seed reduced the incidence of CBB leaf infection in the susceptible dry bean cultivars, but no similar benefit was observed in the resistant lines and cultivars. During the three dry growing seasons, the seed-hydration treatment increased the incidence of CBB leaf infection compared with the diseased-seed treatment for the susceptible cultivars but not for the resistant lines and cultivars. In the wet growing season, no significant difference in the incidence of leaf infection was observed between the hydrated-seed and diseased-seed treatments in any of the cultivars, possibly because the wet soil conditions promoted pathogen development within the bean plants that year. Seed hydration did not improve seed yield in the dry years, but sometimes decreased it under wet conditions. Therefore, seed hydration cannot be recommended for use in the production of dry beans.
Knapsack encoding for secured quantum key distribution protocol
Authors: Goswami Partha Sarathi , Chakraborty Tamal , Chattopadhyay Abir
Published: September 2020

Quantum cryptography has of late opened up the possibilities of exploiting the characteristics of quantum mechanics in the realm of network security. An interesting problem in cryptography is the distribution of the encryption key between the two parties involved in communication. This paper proposes a secure quantum key distribution protocol using the properties of super increasing knapsack sequences. The mapping from the knapsack sequences to the quantum states is achieved by rotating a three-bit quantum tuple.