bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with PPSV23 coverage among older adults in Japan: a nationwide community-based survey
Authors: Murakami Yoshitaka , Kanazu Shinichi , Petigara Tanaz , Oba Mari Saito , Nishiwaki Yuji , Watanabe Akira
Published: July 2019

Objectives

The 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) was included in Japan’s national immunisation programme for older adults in 2014. While vaccination coverage has increased following the implementation of the national immunisation programme, little is known about the factors that have influenced changes in PPSV23 uptake in Japan. This study aimed to investigate the effects of municipality-level activities implemented to improve vaccine uptake during the fiscal year 2015 (April 2015–March 2016).

Design

Community-based national survey. A postal and web-based nationwide survey was sent to all municipalities in Japan in June 2016 (n=1741). The survey included questions regarding PPSV23 coverage, out-of-pocket costs by individuals for vaccination and community-level activities implemented to improve and promote PPSV23 uptake. Municipality-level and prefecture-level variables (eg, unemployment rates, average per capita income) retrieved from published sources were also incorporated to explore the impact of social determinants on vaccine uptake.

Setting

Japan.

Participants

Municipal vaccination officers.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary study outcome was PPSV23 coverage among adults aged 65 years in Japanese municipalities.

Results

A total of 1010 municipalities (58.0%) responded to the survey. The median PPSV23 coverage among responding municipalities was 41.8%. Vaccine coverage increased by 18.7% (16.7%–20.7%)%) in municipalities that sent a direct mail notification to the target population of adults compared with municipalities that did not send any notification. Vaccine coverage decreased by 3.02% (2.4%–3.6%)%) for every 1000 JPY increase in out-of-pocket costs. Municipality-level unemployment rates and average per capita income were negatively associated with PPSV23 coverage.

Conclusions

This nationwide survey provides insight into factors that may influence PPSV23 coverage in Japanese municipalities. Reduced out-of-pocket costs and direct mail notifications to the target population were associated with higher PPSV23 coverage in Japanese municipalities.
Implementing an allied health team intervention to improve the care of older adults in the emergency department: protocol for a process evaluation
Authors: Cassarino Marica , Cronin Úna , Robinson Katie , Quinn Rosie , Boland Fiona , Ward Marie E , MacNamara Rosa , O’Connor Margaret , McCarthy Gerard , Ryan Damien , Galvin Rose
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Health and social care professionals (HSCPs) have increasingly contributed to enhance the care of patients in emergency departments (EDs), particularly for older adults who are frequent ED attendees with significant adverse outcomes. For the first time, the effectiveness of a HSCP team intervention for older adults in the ED has been tested in a large randomised controlled trial (Clinicaltrials.gov,NCT03739515), providing an opportunity to explore the implementation process for this type of intervention. This protocol describes a process evaluation that will to investigate the implementation, delivery and impact of an HSCP team intervention in the ED.

Methods and analysis

Using the Medical Research Council Framework for process evaluations, we will employ a mixed-methods approach to provide a description of the process of implementation and delivery of the HSCP intervention in the ED, evaluate its fidelity, dose and reach and explore the perceptions of key staff members in relations to the mechanisms and contexts of impact at the levels of individuals, physical environment, operations, communication and the broader hospital and healthcare system.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for this study was received from the HSE Mid-Western Regional Hospital Research Ethics Committee (Ref: 103/18). All participants will be invited to read and sign a written consent form prior to participation. The results of this review will be disseminated through publication in a peer-review journal and presented at relevant conferences.
Educator–student talk during interprofessional simulation-based teaching
Authors: Jackson Bianca N , Brady Alana , Friary Philippa , Braakhuis Andrea , Sekula Julia , Miles Anna
Published: July 2019

Background

Simulated learning environments are increasingly common in interprofessional education (IPE). While reflection is key to simulated learning, little is known about the nature of these conversations during simulation. The aim of this exploratory paper was to quantify communicative features of conversations during interprofessional simulation scenarios between dietetics students, speech-language therapy students and their educators.

Methods

Conversations between students and educators during the pauses between simulated scenario phases were recorded and transcribed. Student and educator utterances were quantitatively analysed for speech acts, question types and elements of IPE (clinical reasoning, roles and responsibilities, client and family centred care, interprofessional collaboration, clinical procedural tasks).

Results

Across 1340 utterances from six scenarios, analyses of conversational speech acts and question types highlighted similar patterns of usage between two educators despite different clinical scenarios and professional backgrounds. Educators used a minimally higher proportion of open compared with closed questions, and higher-level problem-solving questions predominated in comparison to simple factual questioning. Educators used more requests for action and attention and students displayed more performative and responsive acts (p<0.05). Students were exposed to all elements of IPE through conversations in all scenarios.

Conclusions

Conversations during pauses in immersive simulated scenarios between educators and students enable rich IPE opportunities and higher-level problem-solving. Educators encouraged students to problem solve within and across disciplines with open questions. Educators provided few factual responses to questions themselves rather diverting questions back to the students. This approach to the analysis of conversation can support educators to evaluate their own communication during interprofessional simulations.
Six decades of preventing and treating childhood anxiety disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis to inform policy and practice
Authors: Schwartz Christine , Barican Jenny Lou , Yung Donna , Zheng Yufei , Waddell Charlotte
Published: July 2019

Question

Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent childhood mental disorders. They also start early and persist, causing high individual and collective costs. To inform policy and practice, we therefore asked: What is the best available research evidence on preventing and treating these disorders?

Methods

We sought randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating interventions addressing anxiety problems in young people. We identified RCTs by searching CINAHL, ERIC, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Web of Science. Thirty-three RCTs met inclusion criteria—evaluating 8 prevention programmes, 12 psychosocial treatments and 7 pharmacological treatments. We then conducted meta-analyses by intervention type.

Findings

For prevention, the cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) programmeCoping and Promoting Strengthstood out for reducing anxiety diagnoses. For psychosocial treatment, 9 CBT interventions also reduced diagnoses:Cool Kids; Cool Little Kids Plus Social Skills; Coping Cat; Coping Koala; One-Session Treatment; Parent Education Program; Skills for Academic and Social Success; Strongest FamiliesandTimid to Tiger. Successful CBT interventions were used with children ranging from pre-schoolers to teens in homes, communities/schools and clinics. For pharmacological treatment, selective-serotonergic-reuptake-inhibitors (SSRIs) significantly improved symptoms. Fluoxetine stood out for also reducing post-test diagnoses, but caused adverse events. Meta-analyses indicated strongest effects for CBT (Log OR=0.95; 95% CI, 0.69 to 1.21) and SSRI treatments (1.57; 1.09 to 2.06).

Conclusions

CBT is effective for preventing and treating childhood anxiety—across a range of ages and formats. Fluoxetine is also an effective treatment but side effects must be managed. CBT prevention and treatment interventions should be made widely available, adding fluoxetine in severe cases.
Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis of reinitiation into methamphetamine abusers: qualitative findings from an exploration of methamphetamine abusers in Shanghai, China
Authors: Zhu Youwei , Zhong Na , Su Hang , Ruan Xiaolu , Bao Jiayi , Zhang Lei , Du Jiang , Xu Ding , Ding Rongjie , Xiao Ke , Zhao Min
Published: July 2019

Background

Despite high relapse rate among methamphetamine (MA) abusers, there still have been little empirical data to date detecting the risk factors related to craving and relapse from the perspective of MA abusers. Therefore, the aim of this study was to use qualitative research methods exploring the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threat factors that could facilitate or impede individuals’ abstinence in a real-life context from the perspectives of MA abusers.

Aim

To use qualitative research methods exploring the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threat factors relating to individuals’ abstinence in a real-life context.

Method

Semistructured interviews were conducted with 32 MA abusers recruited in Shanghai guided by open-ended questions on narrating the real-life catalysts and inhibitors related to craving, initiation, relapse and abstinence. All data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis.

Results

The results of the SWOT analysis revealed that contextual factors including peer influence, prevalence and availability of MA, familiar venue of MA use, discrimination, sexual behaviours, alcohol, emotional states and their attitudes towards smoking MA were important factors that contribute to reinitiation and relapse. Surveillance systems, antidrug social workers, vocational skills trainings, moving to another city and family responsibility might serve as counter measures targeting those mentioned weaknesses and threats above.

Conclusion

This SWOT analysis highlights the complex nature of relapse. Comprehensive interventions strengthening coping skills such as virtual reality techniques are desperately needed to facilitate individuals’ sustained abstinence.
Wilson disease and psychiatric symptoms: A brief case report
Authors: Guerrero-Jiménez Margarita , Carrillo de Albornoz Calahorro Carmen Maura , Gutierrez Rojas Luis
Published: July 2019

Wilson disease (WD) is an uncommon recessive genetic disorder affecting copper metabolism. Cardiac, neurological, hepatic and renal manifestations are well defined, nevertheless approximately 30% of patients debut with neuropsychiatric symptoms. These psychiatric alterations resulting from the accumulation of this heavy metal in the basal ganglia are some how less specific. We present a short review of psychiatric symptoms of WD and describe a case of a 37-year-old woman diagnosed with WD who presented neuropsychiatric symptoms and had a consequent delay in diagnosis and causal treatment. Patients who develop WD starting with a predominance of neuropsychiatric symptoms tend to manifest hepatic symptoms later, therefore have a longer delay of diagnosis and a poorer outcome than patients with hepatic symptoms. An early diagnosis of WD can avoid irreversible neurological damage.
Is active recovery during cold water immersion better than active or passive recovery in thermoneutral water for postrecovery high-intensity sprint interval performance?
Authors: Hurrie Daryl M.G. , Giesbrecht Gordon G.
Published: July 2019

High-intensity exercise is impaired by increased esophageal temperature (Tes) above 38 °C and/or decreased muscle temperature. We compared the effects of three 30-min recovery strategies following a first set of three 30-s Wingate tests (set 1), on a similar postrecovery set of Wingate tests (set 2). Recovery conditions were passive recovery in thermoneutral (34 °C) water (Passive-TN) and active recovery (underwater cycling; ∼33% maximum power) in thermoneutral (Active-TN) or cold (15 °C) water (Active-C). Tesrose for all conditions by the end of set 1 (∼1.0 °C). After recovery, Tesreturned to baseline in both Active-C and Passive-TN but remained elevated in Active-TN (p < 0.05). At the end of set 2, Teswas lower in Active-C (37.2 °C) than both Passive-TN (38.1 °C) and Active-TN (38.8 °C) (p < 0.05). From set 1 to 2 mean power did not change with Passive-TN (+0.2%), increased with Active-TN (+2.4%; p < 0.05), and decreased with Active-C (–3.2%; p < 0.05). Heart rate was similar between conditions throughout, except at end-recovery; it was lower in Passive-TN (92 beats·min−1) than both exercise conditions (Active-TN, 126 beats·min−1; Active-C, 116 beats·min−1) (p < 0.05). Although Active-C significantly reduced Tes, the best postrecovery performance occurred with Active-TN.

Novelty An initial set of 3 Wingates increased Testo ∼38 °C. Thirty minutes of Active-C was well tolerated, and decreased Tesand blood lactate to baseline values, but decreased subsequent Wingate performance.
A reality-based energy analysis of high-performance residences: Part I
Authors: Wilson Eric , Mukhopadhyaya Phalguni , Mahmoodzadeh Milad , Pickwick Kevin , Bergen Terry
Published: July 2019

This research initiative attempts to empirically determine, with reality-based (real instead of modeled) performance data from energy suppliers, the energy advantage associated with building high performance residence in Victoria, BC. In addition, this initiative created a much-needed benchmark for contractors to gain a firm understanding of the construction details required to achieve the various levels of the “Step Code” in the newest edition of the British Columbia Building Code. This was accomplished through a comparative energy analysis between a case-study high-performance “above-code residence” (ACR) to a “minimum code residence” (MCR) with the same floor plan. The ACR was built in 2015 before the step code was introduced, and therefore it was not determined what step level it achieved when it was built. It was not built to any particular performance standard, rather it was built using design details that were calculated to exceed Part 9 performance in effective R-value and airtightness. Upon investigation it was determined that the ACR achieved a performance level of “Step 3” bordering on “Step 4” performance. When compared to the MCR, it was found that the ACR has an energy advantage of 22.5 kWh/m2/year. However, many of the components in the ACR assemblies were either for aesthetic appeal (metal-roofing), or comfort (floor-cavity insulation), and therefore it was possible to remove these components (which is important for Part II of this study: An in-depth cost analysis between the two residences) while maintaining an energy advantage of 15 kWh/m2/year and step level 3 designation. This was dubbed the hybrid-residence as it employed a combination of above-code and minimum-code construction assemblies.
A reality based cost-benefit analysis of high performance residences: Part II
Authors: Wilson Eric , Mukhopadhyaya Phalguni , Pickwick Kevin , Bergen Terry
Published: July 2019

This research initiative attempts to determine, from real construction cost estimates, the cost challenge and expected payback period associated with building a high-performance residence in Victoria, BC. This was accomplished through: a simulated tendering process with local contractors, an energy analysis of a case-study residence (Part I of this research initiative), and an in-depth study into the variables governing time-to-amortization. The contractors provided quotes for an as-built “above code” residence (ACR), and a “minimum-code” residence (MCR) with the same floor plan (Note: The as-built above-code residence was not built or designed to any specific performance standard; however, it was found in Part I of this research initiative that when compared to the new BC Step code that it performed at a step 3 designation, bordering on step 4 performance). The results of the tendering process were then compared to the as-built construction costs of the residence. When compared to the MCR, it was found that the ACR has a cost challenge of approximately 22.5%, an energy advantage of 22.5 kWh/m2/year, and a payback period of over 79 years when a fuel inflation rate of 2% is considered. However, many of the components in the ACR assemblies were either for aesthetic appeal (metal-roofing), or comfort (floor-cavity insulation), and therefore it was possible to reduce the cost challenge to just 2.1%, while maintaining an energy advantage of 15 kWh/m2/year and step level 3 designation. This was dubbed the hybrid-residence as it employed a combination of above-code and minimum-code construction assemblies. Based on a simple mortgage increase calculation, it was found that the reduction in operational costs produced by the energy-efficiency measures for this residence services 87% of the mortgage increase taken on by the home buyer.
Tunneling radiation of fermions with 1/2 and 3/2 spins from a charged axisymmetric nonstationary black hole
Authors: Chao Ding-Qun , Yang Shu-Zheng , Feng Zhong-Wen
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we derived Hamilton–Jacobi equation for spin 1/2 and 3/2 fermions from Dirac equation and Rarita–Schwinger equation. Then, by using the Hamilton–Jacobi equation and general tortoise coordinate transformation, the tunneling rate and Hawking temperatures of a nonstationary axisymmetric symmetry black hole are investigated. The result shows that the tunneling rate, temperature and surface gravity are all related to the properties of horizons of the black hole, the cosmological constant [Formula: see text], the charge [Formula: see text], mass of black hole [Formula: see text] and the Eddington time [Formula: see text].
Aspects of the BTZ black hole interacting with fields
Authors: Ortíz Leonardo , Bretón Nora
Published: July 2019

We show that there is no superradiance for the Dirac field in the rotating BTZ black hole if the field vanishes at infinity. Then we outline the calculation of the expression for the renormalized energy–momentum tensor, the effective action as well as the heat kernel for the Dirac field for the BTZ black hole. Finally, we point out how to construct the Hartle–Hawking–Israel state for the real scalar field in the non-rotating BTZ black hole in two and three dimensions.
Normal distributions of finite Markov chains
Authors: Rhodes John , Schilling Anne
Published: July 2019

We show that the stationary distribution of a finite Markov chain can be expressed as the sum of certain normal distributions. These normal distributions are associated to planar graphs consisting of a straight line with attached loops. The loops touch only at one vertex either of the straight line or of another attached loop. Our analysis is based on our previous work, which derives the stationary distribution of a finite Markov chain using semaphore codes on the Karnofsky–Rhodes and McCammond expansion of the right Cayley graph of the finite semigroup underlying the Markov chain.
Benchmark Vibration Frequencies of Square Thin Plates with all Possible Combinations of Classical Boundary Conditions
Authors: Deutsch Aharon , Tenenbaum Joseph , Eisenberger Moshe
Published: July 2019

In this work, a new method is used for the exact vibration analysis of plates with classical boundary conditions. Four classical edge conditions are included: C — clamped, S — Simply supported, F — free, and G — guided. For square plates, all the possibilities add up to 55 cases. The solutions for the natural frequencies of the plates are found in this paper using static analysis. Starting from the equations of motion of an isotropic rectangular thin plate supported on Winkler elastic foundation, with a positive or negative value, the solution for the vibration frequencies of the plate is equivalent to finding the values of the negative elastic foundation that will yield infinite deflection under a point load on the plate. The solution is composed of three parts, the sum of which satisfies exactly both the field equation and the boundary conditions. For zero force, the vibration frequencies are found up to the desired accuracy. Benchmark results of the first six normalized natural frequencies, of isotropic square plates, for all possible 55 combinations of classical boundary conditions are given, many for the first time.
Controlling the Precursor Morphology of Ni-Rich Li(Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1)O2Cathode for Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Shen Wen-Zhe , Ma Yi , Yao Yao-Chun , Liang Feng
Published: July 2019

Ni-rich Li(Ni[Formula: see text]Co[Formula: see text]Mn[Formula: see text]O2cathode material is widely recognized as one of the most cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries due to its high specific capacity, high energy density and low cost. In this paper, the NCM cathode material precursor Ni[Formula: see text]Co[Formula: see text]Mn[Formula: see text](OH)2was prepared by coprecipitation method and the optimum experimental conditions were investigated. The effects of water bath temperature on the electrochemical performances of the prepared materials were investigated by controlling the morphology. The results showed that 60∘C was the best bath temperature for the precursor which has a regular spheroidal morphology and uniform particles with the diameter of 10[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m. After coprecipitation, the samples calcined under oxygen atmosphere displayed good electrochemical properties. The discharge specific capacity is up to 194[Formula: see text]mA[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]h[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] and 134[Formula: see text]mA[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]h[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] at 0.2∘C and 5∘C, respectively. The initial coulombic efficiency is 87.57% at 0.2∘C.
Harmonic spinors on the Davis hyperbolic 4-manifold
Authors: Ratcliffe John G. , Ruberman Daniel , Tschantz Steven T.
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we use the [Formula: see text]-spin theorem to show that the Davis hyperbolic 4-manifold admits harmonic spinors. This is the first example of a closed hyperbolic [Formula: see text]-manifold that admits harmonic spinors. We also explicitly describe the spinor bundle of a spin hyperbolic 2- or 4-manifold and show how to calculated the subtle sign terms in the [Formula: see text]-spin theorem for an isometry, with isolated fixed points, of a closed spin hyperbolic 2- or 4-manifold.
The normalized Laplacian polynomial of rooted product of graphs
Authors: Heydari Abbas
Published: July 2019

Let [Formula: see text] be a simple graph with [Formula: see text] vertices and [Formula: see text] be a sequence of [Formula: see text] rooted graphs [Formula: see text]. The rooted product [Formula: see text], of [Formula: see text] by [Formula: see text] is constructed by identifying the root vertex of [Formula: see text] with the [Formula: see text]th vertex of [Formula: see text]. In this paper, the characteristic polynomial of the normalized Laplacian matrix of [Formula: see text] is obtained. As an application of our results, we obtain the normalized Laplacian polynomial and spectrum of the generalized Bethe trees.
A SLE Patient with Small Hand Joint Pain
Authors: Wong Priscilla Ching Han
Published: July 2019

A SLE patient with persistent small hand joint pain for 2 years despite on different disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Ultrasound of the hands was performed and the diagnosis and management of the condition was revised.
Rupture geometries in anisotropic amphibolite recorded by pseudotachylytes in the Gairloch Shear Zone, NW Scotland
Authors: Campbell Lucy R. , Phillips Richard J. , Walcott Rachel C. , Lloyd Geoffrey E.
Published: July 2019

Recent earthquakes involving complex multi-fault rupture have increased our appreciation of the variety of rupture geometries and fault interactions that occur within the short duration of coseismic slip. Geometrical complexities are intrinsically linked with spatially heterogeneous slip and stress drop distributions, and hence need incorporating into seismic hazard analysis. Studies of exhumed ancient fault zones facilitate investigation of rupture processes in the context of lithology and structure at seismogenic depths. In the Gairloch Shear Zone, NW Scotland, foliated amphibolites host pseudotachylytes that record rupture geometries of ancient low-magnitude (≤M
W
3) seismicity. Pseudotachylyte faults are commonly foliation parallel, indicating exploitation of foliation planes as weak interfaces for seismic rupture. Discordance and complexity are introduced by fault segmentation, stepovers, branching and brecciated dilational volumes. Pseudotachylyte geometries indicate that slip nucleation initiated simultaneously across several parallel foliation planes with millimetre and centimetre separations, leading to progressive interaction and ultimately linkage of adjacent segments and branches within a single earthquake. Interacting with this structural control, a lithological influence of abundant low disequilibrium melting-point amphibole facilitated coseismic melting, with relatively high coseismic melt pressure encouraging transient dilational sites. These faults elucidate controls and processes that may upscale to large active fault zones hosting major earthquake activity.

Supplementary material
: Supplementary Figures 1 and 2, unannotated versions of field photographs displayed in Figures 4a and 5 respectively, are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.4573256

Thematic collection
: This article is part of the SJG Collection on Early-Career Research available at:
https://www.lyellcollection.org/cc/SJG-early-career-research
Integrin signaling: linking mechanical stimulation to skeletal muscle hypertrophy
Authors: Boppart Marni D. , Mahmassani Ziad S.
Published: July 2019

The α7β1-integrin is a transmembrane adhesion protein that connects laminin in the extracellular matrix (ECM) with actin in skeletal muscle fibers. The α7β1-integrin is highly expressed in skeletal muscle and is concentrated at costameres and myotendious junctions, providing the opportunity to transmit longitudinal and lateral forces across the membrane. Studies have demonstrated that α7-integrin subunit mRNA and protein are upregulated following eccentric contractions as a mechanism to reinforce load-bearing structures and resist injury with repeated bouts of exercise. It has been hypothesized for many years that the integrin can also promote protein turnover in a manner that can promote beneficial adaptations with resistance exercise training, including hypertrophy. This review provides basic information about integrin structure and activation and then explores its potential to serve as a critical mechanosensor and activator of muscle protein synthesis and growth. Overall, the hypothesis is proposed that the α7β1-integrin can contribute to mechanical-load induced skeletal muscle growth via an mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1-independent mechanism.
Resident muscle stem cells are not required for testosterone-induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy
Authors: Englund Davis A. , Peck Bailey D. , Murach Kevin A. , Neal Ally C. , Caldwell Hannah A. , McCarthy John J. , Peterson Charlotte A. , Dupont-Versteegden Esther E.
Published: July 2019

It is postulated that testosterone-induced skeletal muscle hypertrophy is driven by myonuclear accretion as the result of satellite cell fusion. To directly test this hypothesis, we utilized the Pax7-DTA mouse model to deplete satellite cells in skeletal muscle followed by testosterone administration. Pax7-DTA mice (6 mo of age) were treated for 5 days with either vehicle [satellite cell replete (SC+)] or tamoxifen [satellite cell depleted (SC-)]. Following a washout period, a testosterone propionate or sham pellet was implanted for 21 days. Testosterone administration caused a significant increase in muscle fiber cross-sectional area in SC+ and SC- mice in both oxidative (soleus) and glycolytic (plantaris and extensor digitorum longus) muscles. In SC+ mice treated with testosterone, there was a significant increase in both satellite cell abundance and myonuclei that was completely absent in testosterone-treated SC- mice. These findings provide direct evidence that testosterone-induced muscle fiber hypertrophy does not require an increase in satellite cell abundance or myonuclear accretion.

Listen to a podcast about this Rapid Report with senior author E. E. Dupont-Versteegden ( https://ajpcell.podbean.com/e/podcast-on-paper-that-shows-testosterone-induced-skeletal-muscle-hypertrophy-does-not-need-muscle-stem-cells /).
Heart failure developed after myocardial infarction does not affect gut microbiota composition in the rat
Authors: Lataro Renata M. , Imori Priscilla F. M. , Santos Emerson S. , Silva Luiz Eduardo V. , Duarte Rubens T. D. , Silva Carlos A. A. , Falcão Juliana P. , Paton Julian F. R. , Salgado Helio C.
Published: July 2019

There is a body of evidence that supports the notion that gut dysbiosis plays a role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. Decreased cardiac function can reduce intestinal perfusion, resulting in morphological alterations, which may contribute to changes in the gut microbiota composition in patients with heart failure (HF). In this regard, a germane question is whether changes in gut microbiota composition are a cause or consequence of the cardiovascular disturbance. We tested the hypothesis that the development of HF, after myocardial infarction, would cause gut dysbiosis. Fecal samples were collected before and 6 wk after myocardial infarction or sham surgery. Gut microbiota were characterized by sequencing the bacterial 16S ribosomal DNA. The composition of bacterial communities in the fecal samples was evaluated by calculating three major ecological parameters: 1) the Chao 1 richness, 2) the Pielou evenness, and 3) the Shannon index. None of these indices was changed in either sham or HF rats. The Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio was not altered in HF rats. The number of species in each phylum was also not different between sham and HF rats. β-Diversity analysis showed that the composition of gut microbiota was not changed with the development of HF. Bacterial genera were grouped according to their major metabolic end-products (acetate, butyrate, and lactate), but no differences were observed in HF rats. Therefore, we conclude that HF induced by myocardial infarction does not affect gut microbiota composition, at least in rats, indicating that the dysbiosis observed in patients with HF may precede cardiovascular disturbance.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our study demonstrated that, following myocardial infarction in rats, heart failure (HF) development did not affect the intestinal microbiota despite distinct differences reported in the gut microbiota of humans with HF. Our finding is consistent with the notion that dysbiosis observed in patients with HF may precede cardiovascular dysfunction and therefore offers potential for early diagnosis and treatment.
Extracellular vesicles as a novel diagnostic and research tool for patients with HTN and kidney disease
Authors: Erdbrügger Uta , Le Thu H.
Published: July 2019

Hypertension (HTN) affects one in three adults in the United States and is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and kidney failure. There is emerging evidence that more intense blood pressure lowering reduces mortality in patients with kidney disease who are at risk of cardiovascular disease and progression to end-stage renal disease. However, the ideal blood pressure threshold for patients with kidney disease remains a question of debate. Novel tools to more precisely diagnose HTN, tailor treatment, and predict the risk of end-organ damage such as kidney disease are needed. Analysis of circulating and urinary extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their cargo (protein and RNA) has the potential to identify novel noninvasive biomarkers that can also reflect a specific pathological mechanism of different HTN phenotypes. We will discuss the use of extracellular vesicles as markers of HTN severity and explain their profile change with antihypertensive medicine and potential to detect early end-organ damage. However, more studies with enhanced rigor in this field are needed to define the blood pressure threshold to prevent or delay kidney disease progression and decrease cardiovascular risk.
Analysis of continence reflexes by dynamic urethral pressure recordings in a rat stress urinary incontinence model induced by multiple simulated birth traumas
Authors: Kwon Joonbeom , Suzuki Takahisa , Takaoka Ei-ichiro , Shimizu Nobutaka , Shimizu Takahiro , Takai Shun , Yoshikawa Satoru , de Groat William C. , Yoshimura Naoki
Published: July 2019

The present study evaluated real-time changes in urethral pressure during the storage phase using a rat model with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) induced by simulated multiple birth traumas and investigated the relationship between urethral continence function and dynamic parameters associated with the changes in urethral pressure. Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into the following two groups: the sham group, which underwent three catheterizations of the vagina without distension at 2-wk intervals, and the vaginal distension (VD) group, which underwent three VDs at 2-wk intervals. After transection of the T8–T9 spinal cord, simultaneous bladder and urethral pressure recordings were performed during intravesical pressure elevation. Urodynamic parameters such as leak point pressure (LPP), urethral baseline pressure (UBP), maximum urethral pressure (MUP), the MUP-UBP differential (dUP) during intravesical pressure elevation, the bladder pressure when urethral contraction begins (Puc), and the bladder pressure at bladder neck opening (Pno) were then measured and compared. Compared with the sham group, LPP, UBP, dUP, MUP, Puc, and Pno were significantly decreased in the VD group. Pressure differences between LPP and Pno and between LPP and UBP (LPP-UBP) were also significantly different in the two groups. However, difference values of LPP and MUP or Pno and UBP were not altered after VD. Our new methods of simultaneous recordings of dynamic changes in bladder and urethral pressures are useful to fully evaluate the functional alterations in urethral continence function in the SUI model induced by multiple VDs. Moreover, LPP-UBP values, which correspond to the difference between Valsalva LPP and maximum urethral closure pressure in clinical urodynamics, would be useful to evaluate the impaired urethral continence function after simulated birth traumas in animal models.
Loss of primary cilia increases polycystin-2 and TRPV4 and the appearance of a nonselective cation channel in the mouse cortical collecting duct
Authors: Saigusa Takamitsu , Yue Qiang , Bunni Marlene A. , Bell P. Darwin , Eaton Douglas C.
Published: July 2019

Flow-related bending of cilia results in Ca2+ influx through a polycystin-1 (Pkd1) and polycystin-2 (Pkd2) complex, both of which are members of the transient receptor potential (TRP) family (TRPP1 and TRPP2, respectively). Deletion of this complex as well as cilia result in polycystic kidney disease. The Ca2+ influx pathway has been previously characterized in immortalized collecting duct cells without cilia and found to be a 23-pS channel that was a multimere of TRPP2 and TRPV4. The purpose of the present study was to determine if this TRPP2 and TRPV4 multimere exists in vivo. Apical channel activity was measured using the patch-clamp technique from isolated split-open cortical collecting ducts from adult conditional knockout mice with ( Ift88flox/flox) or without ( Ift88−/−) cilia. Single tubules were isolated for measurements of mRNA for Pkd1, Pkd2, Trpv4, and epithelial Na+ channel subunits. The predominant channel activity from Ift88flox/flox mice was from epithelial Na+ channel [5-pS Na+-selective channels with long mean open times (475.7 ± 83.26 ms) and open probability > 0.2]. With the loss of cilia, the predominant conductance was a 23-pS nonselective cation channel (reversal potential near 0) with a short mean open time (72 ± 17 ms), open probability < 0.08, and a characteristic flickery opening. Loss of cilia increased mRNA levels for Pkd2 and Trpv4 from single isolated cortical collecting ducts. In conclusion, 23-pS channels exist in vivo, and activity of this channel is elevated with loss of cilia, consistent with previous finding of an elevated-unregulated Ca2+-permeable pathway at the apical membrane of collecting duct cells that lack cilia.
Phosphoproteomic identification of vasopressin V2 receptor-dependent signaling in the renal collecting duct
Authors: Deshpande Venkatesh , Kao Anika , Raghuram Viswanathan , Datta Arnab , Chou Chung-Lin , Knepper Mark A.
Published: July 2019

Vasopressin controls water balance largely through PKA-dependent effects to regulate the collecting duct water channel aquaporin-2 (AQP2). Although considerable information has accrued regarding the regulation of water and solute transport in collecting duct cells, information is sparse regarding the signaling connections between PKA and transport responses. Here, we exploited recent advancements in protein mass spectrometry to perform a comprehensive, multiple-replicate analysis of changes in the phosphoproteome of native rat inner medullary collecting duct cells in response to the vasopressin V2 receptor-selective agonist 1-desamino-8D-arginine vasopressin. Of the 10,738 phosphopeptides quantified, only 156 phosphopeptides were significantly increased in abundance, and only 63 phosphopeptides were decreased, indicative of a highly selective response to vasopressin. The list of upregulated phosphosites showed several general characteristics: 1) a preponderance of sites with basic (positively charged) amino acids arginine (R) and lysine (K) in position −2 and −3 relative to the phosphorylated amino acid, consistent with phosphorylation by PKA and/or other basophilic kinases; 2) a greater-than-random likelihood of sites previously demonstrated to be phosphorylated by PKA; 3) a preponderance of sites in membrane proteins, consistent with regulation by membrane association; and 4) a greater-than-random likelihood of sites in proteins with class I COOH-terminal PDZ ligand motifs. The list of downregulated phosphosites showed a preponderance of those with proline in position +1 relative to the phosphorylated amino acid, consistent with either downregulation of proline-directed kinases (e.g., MAPKs or cyclin-dependent kinases) or upregulation of one or more protein phosphatases that selectively dephosphorylate such sites (e.g., protein phosphatase 2A). The phosphoproteomic data were used to create a web resource for the investigation of G protein-coupled receptor signaling and regulation of AQP2-mediated water transport.
Diffusion Kurtosis MR Imaging versus Conventional Diffusion-Weighted Imaging for Distinguishing Hepatocellular Carcinoma from Benign Hepatic Nodules
Authors: Jia Yingmei , Cai Huasong , Wang Meng , Luo Yanji , Xu Ling , Dong Zhi , Yan Xu , Li Zi-Ping , Feng Shi-Ting
Published: July 2019

Objectives. To assess the efficacy of diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) and compare DKI-derived parameters with conventional diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) for distinguishing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from benign hepatic nodules including focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH), hemangioma, and hepatocellular adenoma (HCA). Materials and Methods. 151 patients with 182 hepatic nodules (114 HCCs and 68 benign nodules including 33 FNHs, 29 hemangiomas, and 6 HCAs) were analyzed. Preoperative MRI examinations including DKI (b values: 0, 200, 500, 800, 1500, and 2000 sec/mm2) were performed, and kurtosis (K), diffusivity (D), and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were calculated. The efficacy of DKI-derived parameters K, D, and ADC for distinguishing HCC from these benign nodules was analyzed. Results. ROC (receiver operating characteristic curve) analysis showed the optimal cutoff values of ADC, D, and K for identification of these benign nodules, and HCCs were 1.295 (area under the curve (AUC): 0.826; sensitivity 80.6%; specificity 70.8%), 1.787 (AUC: 0.770; sensitivity 83.6%; specificity 59.6%), and 1.002 (AUC: 0.761; sensitivity 65.5%; specificity 79.0%), respectively. Statistically significant differences were found in ADC, D, and K values between groups of HCC-FNH and HCC-hemangioma (P<0.05). There were significant differences in K and ADC values between groups of FNH-hemangioma and HCA-hemangioma (P<0.05), respectively. Using logistic regression analysis, a regression equation was obtained: LogitP=−1.982X1+1.385X3+1.948(X1: ADC; X3: K), and odds ratios (OR) were 0.138 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.052, 0.367), and 8.996 (95% CI: 0.970, 16.460), respectively. Conclusion. Both ADC value and DKI-derived parameters K and D values have demonstrated a higher preoperative efficacy in distinguishing HCC from FNH, hemangioma, and HCA. No evidence was shown to suggest D or K value was superior to the ADC value.
Evaluation of MT Family Isoforms as Potential Biomarker for Predicting Progression and Prognosis in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Tong Mingfu , Lu Wenquan , Liu Hao , Wu Jian , Jiang Mingzuo , Wang Xin , Hao Jianyu , Fan Daiming
Published: July 2019

Background. Metallothioneins (MTs) family comprises many isoforms, most of which are frequently dysregulated in a wide range of cancers. However, the expression pattern and exact role of each distinct MT family isoform which contributes to tumorigenesis, progression, and drug resistance of gastric cancer (GC) are still unclear. Methods. Publicly available databases including Oncomine, Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA), Kaplan-Meier plotter, SurvExpress, MethHC, cBioportal, and GeneMANIA were accessed to perform an integrated bioinformatic analysis and try to detect fundamental relationships between each MT family member and GC. Results. Bioinformatic data indicated that the mRNA expression of all MT family members was almost lowly expressed in GC compared with normal gastric tissue (P<0.05), and patients with reduced mRNA expression of each individual MT member had inconsistent prognostic value (OS, FP, PPS), which depended on the individual isoform of MT. A negative correlation between the methylation in promoter region of majority of MT members and their mRNA expression was detected from MethHC database (p<0.001). Data downloaded from TCGA revealed that MTs were rarely mutated in GC patients and MT2A was frequently regulated by other three genes (FOS, JUN, SP1) in GC patients. Conclusion. MTs were nearly downregulated, and distinct type of MT harbored different prognostic role in GC patients. Methylation in gene promoter region of MTs partially contributed to their reduced expression in GC. Our comprehensive analyses from multiple independent databases may further lead researches to explore MT-targeting reagents or potential diagnostic and prognostic markers for GC patients.
The Influence of Inflammation on Fibrinogen Turnover and Redistribution of the Hemostatic Balance to a Prothrombotic State in High On-Treatment Platelet Reactivity-Dual Poor Responder (HTPR-DPR) Patients
Authors: Biolik Grzegorz , Gajniak Dariusz , Kubicz Maciej , Ziaja Damian , Ziaja Krzysztof , Kuczmik Wacław
Published: July 2019

Knowledge about the influence of inflammation on platelet function and relocation of hemostatic balance to hypercoagulable state is still unclear. We compared two groups of patients who suffer from acute vs. chronic inflammatory process and additionally present high on-treatment platelet reactivity-dual platelet resistance. We did not found any differences in platelet aggregation between both investigated groups, but patients who suffer from chronic inflammation presented stronger relocation of the hemostatic balance to the hypercoagulability. A high concentration of prothrombin fragment F1+2 together with higher activity of von Willebrand factor in critical limb ischemia shows more exaggerated fibrinogen turnover although the blood concentration of this factor was in normal range. We concluded that high on-treatment platelet reactivity-dual platelet resistance and intensified inflammation are linked with elevated platelet and fibrinogen turnover to counteract proper hemostatic balance in favor of a prothrombotic state.
Tetrahydroxystilbene Glucoside Suppresses NAPDH Oxidative Stress to Mitigate Apoptosis and Autophagy Induced by Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Mice
Authors: Yu Feng , Xue Wei , Dong Liuyi , Hu Xiangyang , Huang Dake , Wang Kai
Published: July 2019

Tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside (TSG) is the active ingredient extracted from the traditional Chinese medicine Fallopia multiflora, which has extensive pharmacological activities. The current study aimed to observe the neuroprotective mechanism of TSG in the ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) brain injury-induced apoptosis and autophagy from the point of view of oxidative stress (OS). The middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was prepared through the suture-occluded method, and TSG was administered through tail vein injection at the time of reperfusion at the doses of 3.0, 6.0, and 12.0 mg/kg. Compared with sham group, the neurological score in I/R mice was increased (P<0.05), along with remarkably elevated cerebral infarct volume (P<0.05); while TSG administration could reduce the neurological score and cerebral infarct volume (P<0.05) and improve the neuronal damage in ischemic cortex and hippocampus (P<0.05). The expression of NOX4, activated caspase-3(9), and Beclin 1 (P<0.05), as well as the LC3BII/I ratio, had been markedly elevated (P<0.05), while TSG administration could effectively suppress the expression of the above-mentioned proteins (P<0.05). In conclusion, TSG shows obvious protection against brain injury in I/R mice, and its mechanism may be related to suppressing the NADPH-induced OS and reducing neuronal apoptosis as well as autophagy.