bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of cold storage on platelets treated with Intercept pathogen inactivation
Authors: Six Katrijn R. , Devloo Rosalie , Compernolle Veerle , Feys Hendrik B.
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Pathogen inactivation and cold or cryopreservation of platelets (PLTs) both significantly affect PLT function. It is not known how PLTs function when both are combined.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Standard PLT concentrates (PCs) were compared to pathogen‐inactivated PCs treated with amotosalen photochemical treatment (AS‐PCT) when stored at room (RT, 22°C), cold (4°C, n = 6), or cryopreservation (−80°C, n = 8) temperatures. The impact of alternative storage methods on both arms was studied in flow cytometry, light transmittance aggregometry, and hemostasis in collagen‐coated microfluidic flow chambers.

RESULTS

Platelet aggregation of cold‐stored AS‐PCT PLTs was 44% ± 11% compared to 57% ± 14% for cold‐stored standard PLTs and 58% ± 21% for RT‐stored AS‐PCT PLTs. Integrin activation of cold‐stored AS‐PCT PLTs was 53% ± 9% compared to 77% ± 6% for cold‐stored standard PLTs and 69% ± 13% for RT‐stored AS‐PCT PLTs. Coagulation of cold‐stored AS‐PCT PLTs started faster under flow (836 ± 140 sec) compared to cold‐stored standard PLTs (960 ± 192 sec) and RT‐stored AS‐PCT PLTs (1134 ± 220 sec). Fibrin formation rate under flow was also highest for cold‐stored AS‐PCT PLTs. This was in line with thrombin generation in static conditions because cold‐stored AS‐PCT PLTs generated 297 ± 47 nmol/L thrombin compared to 159 ± 33 nmol/L for cold‐stored standard PLTs and 83 ± 25 nmol/L for RT‐stored AS‐PCT PLTs. So despite decreased PLT activation and aggregation, cold storage of AS‐PCT PLTs promoted coagulation. PLT aggregation of cryopreserved AS‐PCT PLTs (23% ± 10%) was not significantly different from cryopreserved standard PLTs (25% ± 8%).

CONCLUSION

This study shows that cold storage of AS‐PCT PLTs further affects PLT activation and aggregation but promotes (pro)coagulation. Increased procoagulation was not observed after cryopreservation.
Numerical Errors in Unsteady Flow Simulations
Authors: Eça L. , Vaz G. , Toxopeus S. L. , Hoekstra M.
Published: June 2019

This article discusses numerical errors in unsteady flow simulations, which may include round-off, statistical, iterative, and time and space discretization errors. The estimation of iterative and discretization errors and the influence of the initial condition on unsteady flows that become periodic are discussed. In this latter case, the goal is to determine the simulation time required to reduce the influence of the initial condition to negligible levels. Two one-dimensional, unsteady manufactured solutions are used to illustrate the interference between the different types of numerical errors. One solution is periodic and the other includes a transient region before it reaches a steady-state. The results show that for a selected grid and time-step, statistical convergence of the periodic solution may be achieved at significant lower error levels than those of iterative and discretization errors. However, statistical convergence deteriorates when iterative convergence criteria become less demanding, grids are refined, and Courant number increased.For statistically converged solutions of the periodic flow and for the transient solution, iterative convergence criteria required to obtain a negligible influence of the iterative error when compared to the discretization error are more strict than typical values found in the open literature. More demanding criteria are required when the grid is refined and/or the Courant number is increased. When the numerical error is dominated by the iterative error, it is pointless to refine the grid and/or reduce the time-step. For solutions with a numerical error dominated by the discretization error, three different techniques are applied to illustrate how the discretization uncertainty can be estimated, using grid/time refinement studies: three data points at a fixed Courant number; five data points involving three time steps for the same grid and three grids for the same time-step; five data points including at least two grids and two time steps. The latter two techniques distinguish between space and time convergence, whereas the first one combines the effect of the two discretization errors.
Variations of Energy Demand With Process Parameters in Cylindrical Drawing of Stainless Steel
Authors: Li Lei , Huang Haihong , Zhao Fu , Zou Xiang , Lu Qi , Wang Yue , Liu Zhifeng , Sutherland John W.
Published: June 2019

Studies have indicated that reducing the process energy demand is as important as improving the energy conversion efficiency to make manufacturing equipment more energy efficient. However, little work has been done to understand the energy demand characteristics of the widely employed drawing process. In this paper, the energy demand of the cylindrical drawing process under a range of operating parameters was measured and analyzed. Since any energy saving efforts should not have negative effects on the product quality, the forming quality of the drawn part indicated by the maximum thinning and thickening ratios and variation of thickness was also considered. To identify the main contributors to energy demand and forming quality, two sets of experiments were designed based on the Taguchi method. The first set of experiments include three parameters (i.e., punch velocity, blank holder force, and drawn depth) at three levels, while the second set of experiments only include two factors (i.e., punch velocity and blank holder force) at three levels due to their impacts on the forming quality. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and analysis of means (ANOM) were then used to analyze the experimental results. Finally, grey relational analysis (GRA) was used to reveal the correlation between the forming quality and the process energy. Results show that the mean thickness variation has the strongest relational grading with the process energy, which suggests that the process energy can be used as an effective indicator to predict mean thickness variation of the drawn part. The identified characteristics of the process energy and the forming quality can be used to select process parameters for reduced energy demands of drawing processes.
Physical Mechanism of Interblade Vortex Development at Deep Part Load Operation of a Francis Turbine
Authors: Yamamoto Keita , Müller Andres , Favrel Arthur , Avellan François
Published: June 2019

For seamless integration of growing electricity production from intermittent renewable energy sources, Francis turbines are under increasing demand to extend their operating range. This requires Francis turbines to operate under off-design conditions, where various types of cavitation are induced. At deep part load condition, an interblade cavitation vortex observed in a runner blade channel is a typical cavitation phenomenon causing pressure fluctuations and erosion, which prevent a reliable operation of Francis turbines at deep part load. The underlying mechanisms of its development are, however, yet to be understood. In an objective of revealing its developing mechanisms, the present study is aimed at investigating flow structures inside runner blade channels by comparison of three different operating conditions at deep part load using numerical simulation results. After demonstrating interblade vortex structures are successfully simulated by performed computations, it is shown that flow inside the runner at deep part load operation is characterized by a remarkable development of recirculating flow on the hub near the runner outlet. This recirculating flow is concluded to be closely associated with interblade vortex development. The skin-friction analyses applied to the hub identify the flow separation caused by a nonuniform distribution of flow, which describes the underlying physical mechanism of interblade vortex development. Investigations are further extended to include a quantitative evaluation of the specific energy loss induced by interblade vortex development. The integration of energy flux defined by rothalpy evidences the energy loss due to the presence of strong interblade vortex structures.
Porpoise click classifier (PorCC): A high-accuracy classifier to study harbour porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in the wild
Authors: Cosentino Mel , Guarato Francesco , Tougaard Jakob , Nairn David , Jackson Joseph C. , Windmill James F. C.
Published: June 2019

Harbour porpoises are well-suited for passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) as they produce highly stereotyped narrow-band high-frequency (NBHF) echolocation clicks. PAM systems must be coupled with a classification algorithm to identify the signals of interest. Here, the authors present a harbour porpoise click classifier (PorCC) developed in matlab, which uses the coefficients of two logistic regression models in a decision-making pathway to assign candidate signals to one of three categories: high-quality clicks (HQ), low-quality clicks (LQ), or high-frequency noise. The receiver operating characteristics of PorCC was compared to that of PAMGuard's Porpoise Click Detector/Classifier Module. PorCC outperformed PAMGuard's classifier achieving higher hit rates (correctly classified clicks) and lower false alarm levels (noise classified as HQ or LQ clicks). Additionally, the detectability index (d′) for HQ clicks for PAMGuard was 2.2 (overall d′ = 2.0) versus 4.1 for PorCC (overall d′ = 3.4). PorCC classification algorithm is a rapid and highly accurate method to classify NBHF clicks, which could be applied for real time monitoring, as well as to study harbour porpoises, and potentially other NBHF species, throughout their distribution range from data collected using towed hydrophones or static recorders. Moreover, PorCC is suitable for studies of acoustic communication of porpoises.
Revisiting the detection of interaural time differences in listeners with hearing loss
Authors: Best Virginia , Swaminathan Jayaganesh
Published: June 2019

Sensitivity to interaural time differences (ITDs) was measured in two groups of listeners, one with normal hearing and one with sensorineural hearing loss. ITD detection thresholds were measured for pure tones and for speech (a single word), in quiet and in the presence of noise. It was predicted that effects of hearing loss would be reduced for speech as compared to tones due to the redundancy of information across frequency. Thresholds were better overall, and the effects of hearing loss less pronounced, for speech than for tones. There was no evidence that effects of hearing loss were exacerbated in noise.
Can Hyperoxic Preconditioning in Normobaric Hypoxia (3500 m) Improve All-Out Exercise Performance in Highly Skilled Skiers? A Randomized Crossover Study
Authors: Morawetz David , Dünnwald Tobias , Faulhaber Martin , Gatterer Hannes , Höllrigl Lukas , Raschner Christian , Schobersberger Wolfgang
Published: June 2019

Background: The altering effects of hypoxia on aerobic/anaerobic performance are well documented and form the basis of this study. Application of hyperoxic gases (inspiratory fraction of oxygen [FiO2] > 0.2095) prior to competition or training (hyperoxic preconditioning) can compensate for the negative influence of acute hypoxia. Purpose: To investigate whether oxygen supplementation immediately prior to exercise (FiO2 = 1.0) improves all-out exercise performance in normobaric hypoxia (3500 m) in highly skilled skiers. Methods: In this single-blind, randomized, crossover study, 17 subjects performed a 60-second constant-load, all-out test in a normobaric hypoxic chamber. After a short period of adaptation to hypoxia (60 min), they received either pure oxygen or chamber air for 5 minutes prior to the all-out test (hyperoxic preconditioning vs nonhyperoxic preconditioning). Capillary blood was collected 3 times, and muscle oxygenation was assessed with near-infrared spectroscopy. Results: Absolute and relative peak power (P = .073 vs P = .103) as well as mean power (P = .330 vs P = .569) did not significantly differ after the hyperoxic preconditioning phase. PaO2 increased from 51.3 (3) to 451.9 (89.0) mm Hg, and SaO2 increased from 88.2% (1.7%) to 100% (0.2%) and dropped to 83.8% (4.2%) after the all-out test. Deoxygenation (P = .700) and reoxygenation rates (P = .185) did not significantly differ for both preconditioned settings. Conclusions: Therefore, the authors conclude that hyperoxic preconditioning did not enhance 60-second all-out exercise performance in acute hypoxia (3500 m).
Variability of Regional Quadriceps Architecture in Trained Men Assessed by B-Mode and Extended-Field-of-View Ultrasonography
Authors: Oranchuk Dustin J. , Nelson André R. , Storey Adam G. , Cronin John B.
Published: June 2019

Purpose: Regional muscle-architecture measures are reported widely; however, little is known about the variability of these measurements in the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and anterior and lateral vastus intermedius. The aim of this study was to quantify this variability. Methods: Regional muscle thickness, pennation angle (PA), and calculated and extended-field-of-view–derived fascicle length (FL) were quantified in 26 participants using ultrasonography across 51 limbs on 3 occasions. To quantify variability, the typical error of measurement (TEM) was multiplied by 2, and thresholds of 0.2–0.6 (small), 0.6–1.2 (moderate), 1.2–2.0 (large), 2.0–4.0 (very large), and >4.0 (extremely large) were applied. In addition, variability was deemed large when the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was <.67 and coefficient of variation (CV) >10%, moderate when ICC > .67 or CV < 10% (but not both), and small when both ICC > .67 and CV < 10%. Results: Muscle thickness of all muscles and regions had low to moderate variability (ICC = .88–.98, CV = 2.4–9.3%, TEM = 0.15–0.47). PA of the proximal and distal vastus lateralis had low variability (ICC = .85–.96, CV = 3.8–8%) and moderate to large TEM (TEM = 0.42–0.83). PA of the rectus femoris was found to have moderate to very large variability (ICC = .38–.74, CV = 11.4–18.5%, TEM = 0.61–1.29) regardless of region. Extended-field-of-view–derived FL (ICC = .57–.94, CV = 4.1–11.5%, TEM = 0.26–0.88) was superior to calculated FL (ICC = .37–.84, CV = 7.4–17.9%, TEM = 0.44–1.33). Conclusions: Variability of muscle thickness was low in all quadriceps muscles and regions. Only rectus femoris PA and FL measurements were highly variable. The extended-field-of-view technique should be used to assess FL where possible. Inferences based on rectus femoris architecture should be interpreted with caution.
Effects of Postactivation Potentiation on Tennis Serve Velocity and Accuracy
Authors: Terraza-Rebollo Manuel , Baiget Ernest
Published: June 2019

Purpose: To examine the postactivation potentiation effect on serve velocity and accuracy in young competition tennis players using complex training, and comparing different upper and lower body heavy-load resistance exercises (HLRE). Methods: Fifteen competition tennis players (9 boys and 6 girls; age 15.6 [1.5] y) performed 1 control session and 3 experimental sessions using HLRE in a crossover randomized design: (1) bench press, (2) half squat, (3) bench press plus half squat, and (4) control trial. HLRE were performed by accomplishing 3 sets of 3 repetitions when bench press or half squat conditions were performed and 2 sets of 3 repetitions of each exercise when bench press plus half squat condition was performed at 80% 1-repetition maximum, lifting the load at maximum speed. To assess the serve velocity and accuracy, all participants performed 32 flat serves after the HLRE, divided into 4 sets of 8 serves (0, 5, 10, and 15 min postexercise), resting 20 seconds between serves, and 2 minutes and 40 seconds between sets. Results: There were no significant (P > .05) differences in ball velocity and accuracy following each recovery time and exercise, compared with the basal situation. Conclusions: These results suggest that complex training using HLRE is not a useful method for eliciting the postactivation potentiation effect in tennis serve and does not have any effect in serve accuracy in young competition tennis players.
The Role of Self-Determination in Changing Physical Activity Behavior in People Diagnosed With Bowel Polyps: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Lewis Liane S. , Shaw Barnabas , Banerjee Srijit , Dieguez Pryscilla , Hernon James , Belshaw Nigel , Saxton John M.
Published: June 2019

This nonblinded randomized controlled trial investigated the efficacy of a physical activity (PA) intervention underpinned by self-determination theory. Participants (N = 31, mean age 69 years [SD = 4.9]) diagnosed with bowel polyps were randomized to an active lifestyle program (ALP; n = 17) or standard care (n = 14). ALP received supervised exercise and counseling for 6 months. Both groups were followed up at 12 months. Outcomes were change in PA and behavioral regulation. Data were analyzed with intention to treat. At 6 months, differences were observed for behavioral regulation in favor of ALP (p < .05). PA differences were significant for leisure, walking, and vigorous in favor of ALP (p < .05). The self-determination theory can be an effective strategy for promoting PA behavior change in this population, but a larger trial is needed to further explore the utility of the self-determination theory in this context.
Effects of an Interdisciplinary Approach Integrating Mathematics and Physical Education on Mathematical Learning and Physical Activity Levels
Authors: Cecchini Jose A. , Carriedo Alejandro
Published: June 2019

Purpose: New ways of teaching have been under consideration over the last decade. Thus, this study aims to examine the effects of an interdisciplinary educational approach integrating physical education and mathematics on light and moderate–vigorous physical activity (PA), sedentary behavior, and learning subtraction. Method: Forty-six first-grade students (Mage = 76.98 ± 3.74 months) wore an accelerometer for 4 weeks to measure their PA levels. For 3 weeks, one group (n = 23) attended their physical education and mathematic lessons separately according to the traditional curriculum development (i.e., regular classroom lessons), and the other group (n = 23) was taught through an integrated curriculum based on an interdisciplinary approach integrating physical education and mathematics where the curricular time devoted to these subjects was unified. Results: Several t-test analyses revealed significant between-group differences in all variables following the curricular interventions. Students from the interdisciplinary group reached higher levels of light PA, t(44) = −10.095, p < .001, d = 2.97; moderate–vigorous PA, t(44) = −7.950, p < .001, d = 2.35; and spent less time in sedentary behavior, t(44) = 13.549, p < .001, d = 4.01, than students who attended regular classroom lessons. Moreover, the students from the interdisciplinary group achieved higher scores in subtraction learning, t(44) = −4.06, p < .001, d = 1.20. Discussion/Conclusion: The integration of PA into learning environments such as mathematics might help to develop tools that improve mathematical learnings (i.e., subtraction). Likewise, this kind of interdisciplinary approach may contribute to increase the children’s PA levels during the school day.
Investigating the Relationships Between Perceived Mattering, Role Stress, and Psychological Need Satisfaction in Physical Education Teachers
Authors: Washburn Nicholas S. , Richards K. Andrew R. , Sinelnikov Oleg A.
Published: June 2019

Purpose: Despite being linked with motivationally supportive instruction, little research has investigated antecedents to physical educators’ psychological need satisfaction. This study examined relationships between physical educators’ perceived mattering, role stress, and psychological need satisfaction. Method: The participants included 472 in-service physical educators (232 males and 240 females) from the eastern United States who completed an online survey. Structural equation modeling was used to evaluate a conceptual model detailing the relationships among study variables. Results: The conceptual model was a good fit for the data, χ2(358) = 657.16, p < .001, root mean square error of approximation = .042 (90% confidence interval [.037, .047], p = .996), standardized root mean residual = .051, nonnormalized fit index = .949, comparative fit index = .955. Generally, perceived mattering influenced role ambiguity and relatedness satisfaction. Role overload and role ambiguity are negatively associated with competence satisfaction, and role conflict is negatively associated with autonomy satisfaction. Discussion: The findings indicate that elevating physical education teachers’ perceived mattering may reduce role stress and increase psychological need satisfaction.
Unprecedented reorganization of holocentric chromosomes provides insights into the enigma of lepidopteran chromosome evolution
Authors: Hill Jason , Rastas Pasi , Hornett Emily A. , Neethiraj Ramprasad , Clark Nathan , Morehouse Nathan , de la Paz Celorio-Mancera Maria , Cols Jofre Carnicer , Dircksen Heinrich , Meslin Camille , Keehnen Naomi , Pruisscher Peter , Sikkink Kristin , Vives Maria , Vogel Heiko , Wiklund Christer , Woronik Alyssa , Boggs Carol L. , Nylin Sören , Wheat Christopher W.
Published: June 2019

Unprecedented reorganization in a butterfly genome sheds light on the enigma of holocentric chromosome evolution.
A model of guided cell self-organization for rapid and spontaneous formation of functional vessels
Authors: Andrique L. , Recher G. , Alessandri K. , Pujol N. , Feyeux M. , Bon P. , Cognet L. , Nassoy P. , Bikfalvi A.
Published: June 2019

Most achievements to engineer blood vessels are based on multiple-step manipulations such as manual sheet rolling or sequential cell seeding followed by scaffold degradation. Here, we propose a one-step strategy using a microfluidic coextrusion device to produce mature functional blood vessels. A hollow alginate hydrogel tube is internally coated with extracellular matrix to direct the self-assembly of a mixture of endothelial cells (ECs) and smooth muscle cells (SMCs). The resulting vascular structure has the correct configuration of lumen, an inner lining of ECs, and outer sheath of SMCs. These “vesseloids” reach homeostasis within a day and exhibit the following properties expected for functional vessels (i) quiescence, (ii) perfusability, and (iii) contractility in response to vasoconstrictor agents. Together, these findings provide an original and simple strategy to generate functional artificial vessels and pave the way for further developments in vascular graft and tissue engineering and for deciphering the angiogenesis process.
BAP31 regulates mitochondrial function via interaction with Tom40 within ER-mitochondria contact sites
Authors: Namba Takushi
Published: June 2019

ER-mitochondria communication via the BAP31-Tom40 complex is essential for control of mitochondrial homeostasis.
Osteoprotegerin reduces osteoclast resorption activity without affecting osteogenesis on nanoparticulate mineralized collagen scaffolds
Authors: Ren Xiaoyan , Zhou Qi , Foulad David , Tiffany Aleczandria S. , Dewey Marley J. , Bischoff David , Miller Timothy A. , Reid Russell R. , He Tong-Chuan , Yamaguchi Dean T. , Harley Brendan A. C. , Lee Justine C.
Published: June 2019

Osteoprotegerin reduces osteoclast resorption activity without affecting osteogenesis on nanoparticulate mineralized collagen.
A boronic acid–rich dendrimer with robust and unprecedented efficiency for cytosolic protein delivery and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing
Authors: Liu Chongyi , Wan Tao , Wang Hui , Zhang Song , Ping Yuan , Cheng Yiyun
Published: June 2019

We report the rational design of a polymer with unprecedented and robust efficiency for cytosolic delivery of native proteins.
Twists and turns to translating 4-1BB cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Sanmamed Miguel F. , Etxeberría Iñaki , Otano Itziar , Melero Ignacio
Published: June 2019

Previous shortcomings of CD137-targeted immunotherapy may be overcome by engineered bispecific agents (Claus
et al
., this issue).
Inflammation or damage: Fibroblasts decide
Authors: Dakin Stephanie G.
Published: June 2019

Functionally distinct fibroblast subsets mediate inflammation or tissue damage in inflammatory arthritis.
Salmonella
Genomic Island 3 Is an Integrative and Conjugative Element and Contributes to Copper and Arsenic Tolerance of
Salmonella enterica
Authors: Arai Nobuo , Sekizuka Tsuyoshi , Tamamura Yukino , Kusumoto Masahiro , Hinenoya Atsushi , Yamasaki Shinji , Iwata Taketoshi , Watanabe-Yanai Ayako , Kuroda Makoto , Akiba Masato
Published: June 2019

Salmonella
genomic island 3 (SGI3) was first described as a chromosomal island in
Salmonella
4,[5],12:i:–, a monophasic variant of
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
serovar Typhimurium. The SGI3 DNA sequence detected from
Salmonella
4,[5],12:i:– isolated in Japan was identical to that of a previously reported one across entire length of 81 kb.
Plasmid Localization and Partition in
Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Bouet Jean-Yves , Funnell Barbara E.
Published: June 2019

Plasmids are ubiquitous in the microbial world and have been identified in almost all species of bacteria that have been examined. Their localization inside the bacterial cell has been examined for about two decades; typically, they are not randomly distributed, and their positioning depends on copy number and their mode of segregation. Low-copy-number plasmids promote their own stable inheritance in their bacterial hosts by encoding active partition systems, which ensure that copies are positioned in both halves of a dividing cell. High-copy plasmids rely on passive diffusion of some copies, but many remain clustered together in the nucleoid-free regions of the cell. Here we review plasmid localization and partition (Par) systems, with particular emphasis on plasmids from
Enterobacteriaceae
and on recent results describing the
in vivo
localization properties and molecular mechanisms of each system. Partition systems also cause plasmid incompatibility such that distinct plasmids (with different replicons) with the same Par system cannot be stably maintained in the same cells. We discuss how partition-mediated incompatibility is a consequence of the partition mechanism.
Species Distinction in the Trichophyton rubrum Complex
Authors: Su Huilin , Packeu Ann , Ahmed Sarah A. , Al-Hatmi Abdullah M. S. , Blechert Oliver , İlkit Macit , Hagen Ferry , Gräser Yvonne , Liu Weida , Deng Shuwen , Hendrickx Marijke , Xu Jinhua , Zhu Min , de Hoog Sybren
Published: June 2019

The
Trichophyton rubrum
species complex comprises commonly encountered dermatophytic fungi with a worldwide distribution. The members of the complex usually have distinct phenotypes in culture and cause different clinical symptoms, despite high genome similarity. In order to better delimit the species within the complex, molecular, phenotypic, and physiological characteristics were combined to reestablish a natural species concept.
Cross-Reactivity Using Chimeric Trypanosoma cruzi Antigens: Diagnostic Performance in Settings Where Chagas Disease and American Cutaneous or Visceral Leishmaniasis Are Coendemic
Authors: Daltro Ramona Tavares , Leony Leonardo Maia , Freitas Natália Erdens Maron , Silva Ângelo Antônio Oliveira , Santos Emily Ferreira , Del-Rei Rodrigo Pimenta , Brito Maria Edileuza Felinto , Brandão-Filho Sinval Pinto , Gomes Yara Miranda , Silva Marcelo Sousa , Donato Silvia Tavares , Jeronimo Selma Maria Bezerra , Monteiro Gloria Regina de Góis , Carvalho Lucas Pedreira , Magalhães Andréa Santos , Zanchin Nilson Ivo Tonin , Celedon Paola Alejandra Fiorani , Santos Fred Luciano Neves
Published: June 2019

Chimeric
T. cruzi
antigens have been proposed as a diagnostic tool for chronic Chagas disease (CD) in both settings where Chagas disease is endemic and those where it is not endemic. Antibody response varies in accordance to each
T. cruzi
strain, presenting challenges to the use of antigens lacking demonstrated cross-reactivity with
Leishmania
spp.
Draft Genome Sequence of Kroppenstedtia sanguinis X0209
T
, a Clinical Isolate Recovered from Human Blood
Authors: Arthur Robert A. , Nicholson Ainsley C. , Humrighouse Ben W. , McQuiston John R. , Lasker Brent A.
Published: June 2019

Kroppenstedtia sanguinis
X0209
T
, a thermoactinomycete, was isolated from the blood of a patient in Sweden. We report on the draft genome sequence obtained with an Illumina MiSeq instrument. The assembled genome totaled 3.73 Mb and encoded 3,583 proteins. Putative genes for virulence, transposons, and biosynthetic gene clusters have been identified.
Magnetic polarity stratigraphy, provenance, and paleoclimate analysis of Cenozoic strata in the Qaidam Basin, NE Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Nie Junsheng , Ren Xueping , Saylor Joel E. , Su Qingda , Horton Brian K. , Bush Meredith A. , Chen Wenhan , Pfaff Katharina
Published: June 2019

The growth and deformation history of the Qilian-Nan Shan thrust belt bounding the NE Qaidam Basin figures importantly in testing models of Tibetan Plateau uplift during the India-Asia collision. However, debate exists about the onset of uplift and exhumation of the Qilian-Nan Shan, with timing estimates ranging from early Paleocene to late Miocene. Here we report integrated analyses of magnetostratigraphy, anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility, sediment provenance, and paleoclimate (using environmental magnetic parameters) for Cenozoic fluvio-lacustrine strata from the Dahonggou section south of the Qilian-Nan Shan. The results are interpreted to demonstrate an early Miocene (ca. 20 Ma) onset of sediment accumulation in this location, with clastic sediment derived initially from the southern Qimen Tagh highland. The sediment source then switched to the northern part of the Qilian Shan region after ca. 18.5 Ma, consistent with initial uplift and exhumation of the Qilian Shan. Thereafter, two additional provenance shifts reveal progressive southward propagation of deformation in the Qilian-Nan Shan. As a result of this southward growth of Qilian-Nan Shan topography, precipitation increased after ca. 11 Ma at the study site due to orographic interception of moisture from the south. This work improves our understanding of the depositional age, sediment provenance, and paleoclimate history of the Qaidam Basin and reveals a prolonged history of Qilian-Nan Shan deformation and uplift, which may have accelerated during the late Miocene.
Native valve endocarditis withStaphylococcus warneri
Authors: Diaconu Rodica , Golumbeanu Elvira , Constantin Anca , Donoiu Ionut
Published: June 2019

We report a rare case of native valve endocarditis caused byStaphylococcus warneriin an immunocompetent 79-year-old man with known degenerative valvular heart disease but no previous risk factors such as recent invasive treatment or medical implant. The patient presented with heart failure, due to perforation of the mitral valve, and lacked any signs of infection. The diagnosis of endocarditis withS. warneriwas established by echocardiography and positive blood cultures.
More than numbers: preprocedural multislice computed tomography analysis in a patient undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Piayda Kerstin , Hellhammer Katharina , Maier Oliver , Veulemans Verena
Published: June 2019

Multislice computed tomography (MSCT) has emerged as an integral part of patient evaluation in transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Beyond sizing, it offers valuable information especially in challenging anatomies and helps to provide accurate dimensions and highlight potential pitfalls. We present the case of a 94-year-old woman with a coronary anomaly who was initially scheduled for TAVI. Based on MSCT scan and clinical evaluation we decided to perform a less invasive approach. In this setting MSCT evaluation allowed an appropriate benefit-risk assessment and substantially influenced the interventional strategy.
Informed consent for early-phase clinical trials: therapeutic misestimation, unrealistic optimism and appreciation
Authors: Halpern Jodi , Paolo David , Huang Andrew
Published: June 2019

Unrealistic therapeutic beliefs are very common—the majority of patient-subjects (up to 94%) enrol in phase 1 trials seeking and expecting significant medical benefit, even though the likelihood of such benefit has historically proven very low. The high prevalence of therapeutic misestimation and unrealistic optimism in particular has stimulated debate about whether unrealistic therapeutic beliefs in early-phase clinical trials preclude adequate informed consent. We seek here to help resolve this controversy by showing that a crucial determination of when such therapeutic beliefs are ethically problematic turns on whether they are causally linked and instrumental to the motivation to participate in the trial. Thus, in practice, it is ethically incumbent on researchers to determine which understanding and beliefs lead to the participant’s primary motivation for enrolling, not to simply assess understanding, beliefs and motivations independently. We further contend that assessing patient-subjects’ appreciation as a component of informed consent—it is already an established component of decision-making capacity assessments—can help elucidate the link between understanding-beliefs and motivation; appreciation refers to an individual’s understanding of the personal significance of both the medical facts and the experience of trial participation. Therefore, we recommend that: (1) in addition to the usual question, ‘Why do you want to participate in this trial?’, all potential participants should be asked the question: ‘What are you giving up by participating in this trial?’ and (2) researchers should consider the settings in which it may be possible and practical to obtain ‘two-point consent’.
Meeting the Epicurean challenge: a reply to ’Abortion and Deprivation"
Authors: Colgrove Nick
Published: June 2019

Anna Christensen argues that it is implausible to claim that abortion and murder are morally impermissible given that they deprive individuals of a future like ours (or ’FLO"). In this essay, I provide two responses to Christensen’s argument. First, I show that the premises upon which Christensen’s argument relies have implausible implications. Second, I provide a direct response to Christensen’s challenge, showing that abortion and murder are morally impermissible given that they do deprive individuals of an FLO. Doing so involves drawing a distinction between (1) Acts of killing and (2) Death (which is the outcome of acts of killing). Christensen focuses on the latter, but it is the former that is the proper subject in the abortion debate. I conclude that Christensen has failed to provide a response to arguments—like the one presented by Marquis —that murder and abortion are impermissible given that they deprive individuals of an FLO.
Ethical issues raised by cluster randomised trials conducted in low-resource settings: identifying gaps in theOttawa Statementthrough an analysis of the PURE Malawi trial
Authors: Mtande Tiwonge K , Weijer Charles , Hosseinipour Mina C , Taljaard Monica , Matoga Mitch , Goldstein Cory E , Nyambalo Billy , Rosenberg Nora E
Published: June 2019

The increasing use of cluster randomised trials in low-resource settings raises unique ethical issues. TheOttawa Statement on the Ethical Design and Conduct of Cluster Randomised Trialsis the first international ethical guidance document specific to cluster trials, but it is unknown if it adequately addresses issues in low-resource settings. In this paper, we seek to identify any gaps in theOttawa Statementrelevant to cluster trials conducted in low-resource settings. Our method is (1) to analyse a prototypical cluster trial conducted in a low-resource setting (PURE Malawi trial) with theOttawa Statement; (2) to identify ethical issues in the design or conduct of the trial not captured adequately and (3) to make recommendations for issues needing attention in forthcoming revisions to theOttawa Statement. Our analysis identified six ethical aspects of cluster randomised trials in low-resource settings that require further guidance. The forthcoming revision of theOttawa Statementshould provide additional guidance on these issues: (1) streamlining research ethics committee review for collaborating investigators who are affiliated with other institutions; (2) the classification of lay health workers who deliver study interventions as health providers or research participants; (3) the dilemma experienced by investigators when national standards seem to prohibit waivers of consent; (4) the timing of gatekeeper engagement, particularly when researchers face funding constraints; (5) providing ancillary care in health services or implementation trials when a routine care control arm is known to fall below national standards and (6) defining vulnerable participants needing protection in low-resource settings.
Effect of outdoor particulate air pollution on FEV1in healthy adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Edginton Stefan , O’Sullivan Dylan E , King Will , Lougheed M Diane
Published: June 2019

The effect of acute and long-term exposures to outdoor particulate air pollution on lung function in healthy adults is not well established. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of studies that assessed the relationship of outdoor particulate air pollution and lung function in healthy adults. Studies that contained data on outdoor air particulate matter levels (PM10or PM2.5) and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) in healthy adults were eligible for inclusion. Effect estimates, in relation to long-term and acute exposures, were quantified separately using random effects models. A total of 27 effect estimates from 23 studies were included in this review. Acute exposures were typically assessed with PM2.5, while long-term exposures were predominantly represented by PM10. A 10 µg/m3 increase in short-term PM2.5exposure (days) was associated with a −7.02 mL (95% CI −11.75 to –2.29) change in FEV1. A 10 µg/m3difference in long-term PM10exposure was associated with a −8.72 mL (95% CI −15.39 to –2.07) annual change in FEV1and an absolute difference in FEV1of −71.36 mL (95% CI −134.47 to –8.24). This study provides evidence that acute and long-term exposure to outdoor particulate air pollution are associated with decreased FEV1in healthy adults. Residual confounding from other risk factors, such as smoking, may explain some of the effect for long-term exposures. More studies are required to determine the relationship of long-term exposure to PM2.5and short-term exposure to PM10, which may have different biologic mechanisms.
Implementing clinical guidelines
Authors: Mayer Josephine , Kipps Christopher , Cock Hannah R
Published: June 2019

Clinical guidelines that support practice and improve care are essential in this era of evidence-based medicine. However, implementing this guidance often falls short in practice. Sharing knowledge and auditing practice are important, but not sufficient to implement change. This article brings together evidence from the study of behaviour, education and clinical practice and offers practical tips on how practising neurologists might bring about change in the healthcare environment. Common themes include the importance of team working, multidisciplinary engagement, taking time to identify who and what needs changing, and selecting the most appropriate tool(s) for the job. Engaging with the challenge is generally more rewarding than resisting and is important for the effective provision of care.
Glucocorticoid withdrawal in systemic lupus erythematosus: are remission and low disease activity reliable starting points for stopping treatment? A real-life experience
Authors: Tani Chiara , Elefante Elena , Signorini Viola , Zucchi Dina , Lorenzoni Valentina , Carli Linda , Stagnaro Chiara , Ferro Francesco , Mosca Marta
Published: June 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the proportion of patients who have successfully withdrawn glucocorticoids (GCs) in a longitudinal cohort of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) over a period of 6 years; to evaluate patient characteristics during GC withdrawal in relation to existing definitions of remission and Lupus Low Disease Activity State (LLDAS); and to evaluate the occurrence of flares after GC withdrawal.

Methods

Patients who attempted GC withdrawal were identified for the cohort, and the following information was assessed during withdrawal attempts: date of last disease flare, disease activity and damage and ongoing treatment. Information regarding the occurrence of disease flares after GC withdrawal was also recorded for patients who successfully stopped treatment.

Definitions of remission were applied to GC withdrawal in line with European consensus criteria (Definitions of remission in SLE [DORIS]) and LLDAS in line with the Asian Pacific Lupus Consortium definition.

Results

148 patients were involved in the study; GC withdrawal was attempted in 91 patients (61.5%) with 77 patients (84.6%) successfully stopping GCs. At the beginning of the GC reduction, the majority of patients were in complete or clinical remission (48.9% and 39.6%, respectively). Disease activity was significantly lower in patients who successfully stopped GCs, and the proportion of patients in complete remission was higher (54.2%) with respect to patients who failed in their attempt. Among patients who stopped GCs, 18 flares were recorded after a median of 1 year. The time period since the last flare was shorter in patients who experienced flares with respect to patients who did not flare (mean 0.93 years vs 6.0, p<0.001).

Conclusions

GC withdrawal is an achievable goal in SLE and may be attempted after a long-term remission or LLDAS to protect the patient from disease flares.
Numerical experiments for long nonlinear internal waves via Gardner equation with dual-power law nonlinearity
Authors: Ak Turgut
Published: June 2019

This paper studies Gardner equation, which represents long nonlinear internal waves. The collocation method based on B-splines is applied to the equation. The stability of the proposed numerical scheme is analyzed by using von Neumann theory. To observe some physical properties of long nonlinear internal waves, three test problems which contain the propagation of solitary waves, the interaction of solitary waves and evolution of solitons are considered. Also, the effect of nonlinearity on physical problems is investigated. In order to see this effect clearly, the same parameters are used during the computation for different degrees of nonlinearity in each problem.
Multi-switching combination synchronization of spatiotemporal coupled chaotic systems with complexities
Authors: Zhang Hao , Wang Xingyuan , Zhang Jun , Yan Pengfei
Published: June 2019

In this paper, multi-switching combination synchronization for spatiotemporal coupled systems are studied. For the local system in spatiotemporal coupled systems, different local dynamic behaviors are taken into consideration. With the Backstepping method, synchronization controllers are designed for different possible combined errors and corresponding theorems are derived according to the Lyapunov stability theory. In the stability design, multi-switching combination synchronizations can be translated into corresponding combination projective synchronization with different projective factors. In addition, complexities including time delays are considered in the synchronization process. At last, simulation results show the robustness and effectiveness of our methods.
Polytropic Carnot heat engine
Authors: Askin M. , Salti M. , Aydogdu O.
Published: June 2019

Recent astrophysical datasets have implied that the universe has entered a speedy expansion phase. The Polytropic gas model, which describes a unified formulation of dark contents (matter plus energy), is one of the most reasonable definitions of this mysterious phenomenon. This interesting formulation allows to simulate the dark contents in the cosmic form of the perfect fluid and gives an interesting point of view in the discussion of fundamental theories of physics. In the first step of our investigation, we discuss the thermal equation-of-state (EoS henceforth) and obtain the EoS and deceleration parameters as explicit functions of temperature. Subsequently, we obtain a relation for the thermal efficiency of the Carnot heat engine which depends on free parameters given in the cosmological Polytropic gas description and the limits of maximal and minimal temperatures imposed on the Carnot cycle.
Local to global controls on the deposition of organic-rich muds across the Late Jurassic Laurasian Seaway
Authors: Atar Elizabeth , März Christian , Schnetger Bernhard , Wagner Thomas , Aplin Andrew
Published: June 2019

Muds deposited in large-scale epicontinental seaways provide deep insights into palaeoclimates, biogeochemical cycles, sedimentation processes and organic carbon burial during exceptionally warm periods throughout the Phanerozoic. Temporal changes can be monitored at single locations but the key, larger scale oceanographical and related biogeochemical processes are likely to be more clearly revealed by comparisons between individual sub-basins within seaways. Here, we compare inorganic geochemical records from the Jurassic (upper
Pectinatites wheatleyensis
to lower
Pectinatites pectinatus
ammonite zones) of the Swanworth Quarry 1 Core from the Wessex Basin (Dorset, UK) to time-equivalent records from the Ebberston 87 Core in the Cleveland Basin (Yorkshire, UK), 400 km apart. Our synthesis shows that while the Dorset sediments were deposited in an energetically more dynamic setting than the Yorkshire sediments, the overarching climatic and oceanographical processes responsible for variations in organic carbon enrichment and sedimentation were similar. Intervals of coeval organic carbon-rich sedimentation occurred in both basins, and a particulate shuttle was intermittently active in both basins. Consistent with recent climate simulations, we conclude that tropical climate conditions, associated with enhanced nutrient supply, were key drivers of sedimentation between the Jurassic Wessex and Cleveland Basins.

Supplementary material:
Geochemical data discussed in the manuscript is available at:
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.4531532
Nuclear receptor subfamily 4 group A member 2 inhibits activation of ERK signaling and cell growth in response to β-adrenergic stimulation in adult rat cardiomyocytes
Authors: Ashraf Sadia , Hegazy Yassmin K. , Harmancey Romain
Published: June 2019

Sustained elevation of sympathetic activity is an important contributor to pathological cardiac hypertrophy, ventricular arrhythmias, and left ventricular contractile dysfunction in chronic heart failure. The orphan nuclear receptor NR4A2 is an immediate early-response gene activated in the heart under β-adrenergic stimulation. The goal of this study was to identify the transcriptional remodeling events induced by increased NR4A2 expression in cardiomyocytes and their impact on the physiological response of those cells to sustained β-adrenergic stimulation. Treatment of adult rat ventricular myocytes with isoproterenol induced a rapid (<4 h) increase in NR4A2 levels that was accompanied by a transient (<24 h) increase in nuclear localization of the transcription factor. Adenovirus-mediated overexpression of NR4A2 to similar levels modulated the expression of genes linked to adrenoceptor signaling, calcium signaling, cell growth and proliferation and counteracted the increase in protein synthesis rate and cell surface area mediated by chronic isoproterenol stimulation. Consistent with those findings, NR4A2 overexpression also blocked the phosphorylative activation of growth-related kinases ERK1/2, Akt, and p70 S6 kinase. Prominent among the transcriptional changes induced by NR4A2 was the upregulation of the dual-specificity phosphatases DUSP2 and DUSP14, two known inhibitors of ERK1/2. Pretreatment of NR4A2-overexpressing cardiomyocytes with the DUSP inhibitor BCI [( E)-2-benzylidene-3-(cyclohexylamino)-2,3-dihydro-1 H-inden-1-one] prevented the inhibition of ERK1/2 following isoproterenol stimulation. In conclusion, our results suggest that NR4A2 acts as a novel negative feedback regulator of the β-adrenergic receptor-mediated growth response in cardiomyocytes and this at least partly through DUSP-mediated inhibition of ERK1/2 signaling.