bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactions between propagating rifts and linear weaknesses in the lower crust
Authors: Molnar Nicolas E. , Cruden Alexander R. , Betts Peter G.
Published: August 2019

Pre-existing structures in the crust such as shear zones, faults, and mobile belts are known to exert a significant control on the structural evolution of continental rifts. However, the influence of such features when the extension direction progressively changes over time remains uncertain. Here we present new results from three-dimensional lithospheric-scale laboratory experiments of rotational extension that provide key insights into the temporal evolution of propagating rifts. We specifically test and characterize how rifts propagate and interact with linear crustal rheological heterogeneities oriented at variable angles with respect to the extension direction. Results show that approximately rift-parallel pre-existing heterogeneities favor the formation of long, linear faults that reach near-final lengths at early stages. Low angles between the heterogeneities and the propagating rift axis may result in strong strike-slip reactivation of the pre-existing structures if they are suitably oriented with respect to the stretching direction. When the linear heterogeneities are oriented at intermediate to high angles rift branches become laterally offset as they propagate, resulting in complex rhombic fault patterns. Rift-perpendicular crustal heterogeneities do not affect fault trends during rift propagation, but cause stalling and deepening of laterally growing rift basins. Similarities between the analogue experimental results and selected natural examples provide insights on how nature finds the preferential pathway to breakup in heterogeneous continental lithosphere.
Methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) sepsis complicated by warm autoimmune haemolytic anaemia secondary to antimicrobial therapy
Authors: Verdecia Jorge , Hernandez Jarelys , Izzo Christopher , Sottile Elisa , Isache Carmen
Published: August 2019

A 61-year-old Caucasian woman presented to the emergency room complaining of left-sided chest pain and altered mentation for 3 days. Her medical history included liver cirrhosis and coronary artery disease. On admission, she was found to have methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) bacteraemia. Due to a decline in mental status, a lumbar puncture was performed and cerebrospinal fluid cultures grew MRSA. She was treated initially with vancomycin. Ceftaroline was later added, due to the high burden of disease and difficulty in clearing her infection. After initiation of ceftaroline, bacteraemia cleared and mental status improved, however, she developed haemolytic anaemia. Ceftaroline was stopped and vancomycin continued. Staphylococcal meningitis is a rare occurrence, estimated at a rate of only 1%–10% of all bacterial meningitis cases. Ceftaroline seems to be a suitable option for disseminated MRSA infection, including MRSA meningitis, when the clinical response to vancomycin is inadequate. Further studies are warranted in order to establish adequate dosing while avoiding adverse effects.
Multiple asymptomatic vascular air embolisms following contrast-enhanced CT scan
Authors: Zulkifle Aina Mardiah , Faisal Mohamed
Published: August 2019

Vascular air embolism (VAE) is a known complication of contrast-enhanced CT (CECT) scan occurring in venous or arterial circulation with a wide spectrum of presentations. We report a case of a 44-year-old woman with endometrial adenocarcinoma stage IVB complicated with liver abscess and pulmonary embolism who developed VAE following a routine CECT scan after the sixth cycle of chemotherapy. This was an incidental finding and the patient remained asymptomatic throughout. As such, she was treated conservatively and gradually recovered. This case report serves as a reminder that VAE should be considered in patients presenting with unexplained symptoms following this procedure.
Enterococcus casseliflavus,Streptococcus equinusandKlebsiella oxytocasepticaemia associated with perinephric haematoma in a post-liver transplant patient with allograft cirrhosis
Authors: Heda Rajiv Prakash , Savage Yolanda , Nair Satheesh P , Verma Rajanshu
Published: August 2019

Liver transplant recipients are immunocompromised by the virtue of being on immunosuppressive agents which put them at risk of having infections from unusual and even multiple concomitant pathogens. We present a case of a 39-year-old man who developed septicaemia withEnterococcus casseliflavus,Streptococcus equinusandKlebsiella oxytocain the setting of perinephric haematoma which resulted following a kidney biopsy performed to evaluate his nephrotic range proteinuria.E. casseliflavushas been known to cause infections in patients with liver disease/cirrhosis; however, simultaneous infection withS. equinusandK. oxytocaalong withE. casseliflavushas never been reported earlier in post-transplant state.
Rare presentation of haemobilia and Loeffler’s pneumonia in a child by ascaris lumbricoides
Authors: Cheema Huma Arshad , Waheed Nadia , Saeed Anjum
Published: August 2019

Ascariasis is a soil-sourced, second most common parasitic infection worldwide. Because of its wandering nature, it migrates from the intestine to other organs of the body like the lungs and biliary system. This results in complications such as biliary colic, acute cholecystitis, pyogenic cholangitis, liver abscesses, pancreatitis and loeffler’s pneumonia. We report a unique case of an 8-year-old boy who presented with upper gastrointestinal bleed and chest infection. He was diagnosed as haemobilia and loeffler’s pneumonia caused by ascaris lumbricoides.
Prenatal diagnosis of congenital mesoblastic nephroma: a case with poor prognosis
Authors: Mata Rodrigo Pereira , Alves Teresa , Figueiredo António , Santos Antónia
Published: August 2019

Congenital mesoblastic nephromais a rare tumour found in neonates, with a very small number of cases diagnosed prenatally. We report a case of a fetal renal tumour suspected at 28 weeks’ gestation on routine ultrasound. Prenatal follow-up revealed a severe polyhydramnios at 32 weeks’ gestation subsequent amniodrainage was undertaken. She delivered at 34+5 weeks’ gestation, after spontaneous premature rupture of membranes.
Niraparib as maintenance therapy in a patient with ovarian cancer and brain metastases
Authors: Gray Simon , Khor Xiao Ying , Yiannakis Dennis
Published: August 2019

Ovarian cancer is the second the most common gynaecological malignancy in developed countries. 70% of patients relapse in the first 3 years following debulking surgery and first-line chemotherapy. Niraparib is a poly adenosine diphosphate ribose polymerase inhibitor which uses the concept of synthetic lethality in the presence of a mutation in the breast cancer susceptibility gene (BRCA), and is now recommended as maintenance treatment in patients with platinum-sensitive relapse of ovarian cancer. It has been shown to increase progression-free survival. We present a case of a 68-year-old woman with brain metastases from high-grade serous ovarian cancer who has remained free of disease progression for longer than 17 months with niraparib use as maintenance treatment after second-line chemotherapy.
Eluxadoline-induced pancreatitis occurring in an adult man without a prior cholecystectomy
Authors: Shahid Zainab , Packard Elizabeth , Groff Andrew , Jain Rohit
Published: August 2019

Eluxadoline is a novel medication that was approved in the USA in 2015 for the treatment of diarrhoea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome. Due to its unique mechanism of action as both an opioid agonist and antagonist, it has been placed as a schedule IV controlled substance. Since its approval, there have been several cases of eluxadoline-induced pancreatitis reported in the literature. The majority of patients who presented with eluxadoline-induced pancreatitis were reported to have had a prior cholecystectomy. Due to this, the Food and Drug Administration released a warning in 2017 that eluxadoline should no longer be used in patients who do not have a gall bladder. We present a rare case of an adult man without prior cholecystectomy who presented with severe mid-epigastric pain and was found to have eluxadoline-induced pancreatitis.
Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of pancreas in a patient of situs inversus totalis
Authors: Vishwanath Reddych Venkata , Prakash Anand
Published: August 2019

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) in a case of situs inversus totalis (SIT) is a rare occurrence with only one case being reported until now in the literature. SIT presents a technical challenge for the operating surgeon in view of the reversed anatomy hence the operating surgeon should orient himself of the altered anatomy of SIT before contemplating surgery. To the best of our knowledge, spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy in a patient of SPN with SIT has not been reported until now. We are reporting a case of SPN with SIT who underwent spleen-preserving distal pancreatectomy.
Measuring unmet need for contraception as a point prevalence
Authors: Moreau Caroline , Shankar Mridula , Helleringer Stephane , Becker Stanley
Published: August 2019

Background

This study proposes a framework to address conceptual concerns with the standard indicator of unmet need for contraception. We define new point prevalence measures of current status (CS) unmet need and CS unmet demand, by linking contraceptive behaviours to pregnancy exposure and to women’s future contraceptive intentions. We explore the difference between standard and CS unmet need and estimate the proportion of women with CS unmet demand, who may be more likely to adopt contraception.

Methods

We use Demographic and Health Survey data from 46 low-income and middle-income countries released between 2010 and 2018. We assess differences in women’s classification between standard and CS unmet need indicators and estimate the percentage of women with CS unmet demand for contraception, defined as the percentage of women with CS unmet need who intend to use contraception in the future.

Findings

We find substantial country-level differences between standard and CS estimates of unmet need, ranging from −8.3% points in Niger to +11.1% points in Nepal. The average predictive value of the standard measure across the 46 countries for identifying prevalent cases of unmet need is 53%. Regardless of indicator (standard or CS), only half of women with unmet need intend to use contraception.

Interpretation

The results of this study suggest that the standard measure of unmet need has low predictive value in identifying women with current unmet need. Thus, the standard indicator does not reflect a prevalence estimate of unmet need.
Intestinal antibody responses to a live oral poliovirus vaccine challenge among adults previously immunized with inactivated polio vaccine in Sweden
Authors: Brickley Elizabeth B , Connor Ruth I , Wieland-Alter Wendy F , Collett Marc S , Hartford Marianne , Van Der Avoort Harrie , Boesch Austin W , Weiner Joshua A , Ackerman Margaret E , McKinlay Mark A , Arita Minetaro , Bandyopadhyay Ananda S , Modlin John F , Wright Peter F
Published: August 2019

Background

Our understanding of the acquisition of intestinal mucosal immunity and the control of poliovirus replication and transmission in later life is still emerging.

Methods

As part of a 2011 randomised, blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial of the experimental antiviral agent pocapavir (EudraCT 2011-004804-38), Swedish adults, aged 18–50 years, who had previously received four doses of inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) in childhood were challenged with a single dose of monovalent oral polio vaccine type 1 (mOPV1). Using faecal samples collected before and serially, over the course of 45 days, after mOPV1 challenge from a subset of placebo-arm participants who did not receive pocapavir (N=12), we investigated the kinetics of the intestinal antibody response to challenge virus by measuring poliovirus type 1-specific neutralising activity and IgA concentrations.

Results

In faecal samples collected prior to mOPV1 challenge, we found no evidence of pre-existing intestinal neutralising antibodies to any of the three poliovirus serotypes. Despite persistent high-titered vaccine virus shedding and rising serum neutralisation responses after mOPV1 challenge, intestinal poliovirus type 1-specific neutralisation remained low with a titer of ≤18.4 across all time points and individuals. Poliovirus types 1-specific, 2-specific and 3-specific IgA remained below the limit of detection for all specimens collected postchallenge.

Interpretation

In contrast to recent studies demonstrating brisk intestinal antibody responses to oral polio vaccine challenge in young children previously vaccinated with IPV, this investigation finds that adults previously vaccinated with IPV have only modest intestinal poliovirus type 1-specific neutralisation and no IgA responses that are measurable in stool samples following documented mOPV1 infection.
Intervention development and treatment success in UK health technology assessment funded trials of physical rehabilitation: a mixed methods analysis
Authors: Goodwin Victoria A , Hill Jacqueline J , Fullam James A , Finning Katie , Pentecost Claire , Richards David A
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Physical rehabilitation is a complex process, and trials of rehabilitation interventions are increasing in number but often report null results. This study aimed to establish treatment success rates in physical rehabilitation trials funded by the National Institute of Health Research Health Technology Assessment (NIHR HTA) programme and examine any relationship between treatment success and the quality of intervention development work undertaken.

Design

This is a mixed methods study.

Setting

This study was conducted in the UK.

Methods

The NIHR HTA portfolio was searched for all completed definitive randomised controlled trials of physical rehabilitation interventions from inception to July 2016. Treatment success was categorised according to criteria developed by Djulbegovic and colleagues. Detailed textual data regarding any intervention development work were extracted from trial reports and supporting publications and informed the development of quality ratings. Mixed methods integrative analysis was undertaken to explore the relationship between quantitative and qualitative data using joint displays.

Results

Fifteen trials were included in the review. Five reported a definitive finding, four of which were in favour of the ‘new’ intervention. Eight trials reported a true negative (no difference) outcome. Integrative analysis indicated those with lower quality intervention development work were less likely to report treatment success.

Conclusions

Despite much effort and funding, most physical rehabilitation trials report equivocal findings. Greater focus on high quality intervention development may reduce the likelihood of a null result in the definitive trial, alongside high quality trial methods and conduct.
Longitudinal study of use and cost of subacromial decompression surgery: the need for effective evaluation of surgical procedures to prevent overtreatment and wasted resources
Authors: Jones Tim , Carr Andrew J , Beard David , Linton Myles-Jay , Rooshenas Leila , Donovan Jenny , Hollingworth William
Published: August 2019

Objectives

To illustrate the need for better evaluation of surgical procedures, we investigated the use and cost of subacromial decompression in England over the last decade compared with other countries and explored how this related to the conduct and outcomes of randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trials.

Design

Longitudinal observational study using Hospital Episode Statistics linked to Payment by Results tariffs in England, 2007/2008 to 2016/2017.

Setting

Hospital care in England; Finland; New York State, USA; Florida State, USA and Western Australia.

Participants

Patients with subacromial shoulder pain.

Interventions

Subacromial decompression.

Main outcome measures

National procedure rates, costs and variation between clinical commissioning groups in England.

Results

Without robust clinical evidence, the use of subacromial decompression in England increased by 91% from 15 112 procedures (30 per 100 000 population) in 2007/2008, to 28 802 procedures (52 per 100 000 population) in 2016/2017, costing over £125 million per year. Rates of use of subacromial decompression are even higher internationally: Finland (131 per 100 000 in 2011), Florida State (130 per 100 000 in 2007), Western Australia (115 per 100 000 in 2013) and New York State (102 per 100 000 in 2006). Two randomised placebo-controlled trials have recently (2018) shown the procedure to be no more effective than placebo or conservative approaches. Health systems appear unable to avoid the rapid widespread use of procedures of unknown effectiveness, and methods for ceasing ineffective treatments are under-developed.

Conclusions

Without good evidence, nearly 30 000 subacromial decompression procedures have been commissioned each year in England, costing over £1 billion since 2007/2008. Even higher rates of procedures are carried out in countries with less regulated health systems. High quality randomised trials need to be initiated before widespread adoption of promising operative procedures to avoid overtreatment and wasted resources, and methods to prevent or desist the use of ineffective procedures need to be expedited.
Improving medication optimisation in left ventricular systolic dysfunction after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Forsyth Paul , Moir Lynsey , Speirits Iain , McGlynn Steve , Ryan Margaret , Watson Anne , Reid Fiona , Rush Christopher , Murphy Clare
Published: August 2019

Glasgow city has the highest cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality rate in the UK. Patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction after acute myocardial infarction represent a ‘high-risk’ cohort for adverse CVD outcomes. The optimisation of secondary prevention medication in this group is often suboptimal. Our aim was to improve the use and target dosing of ACE inhibitors (ACEI), angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) and beta-blockers in such patients, through pharmacist-led clinics and cardiology multidisciplinary team collaboration. Retrospective audits characterised baseline care. Prospective pharmacist-led clinics were piloted and rolled out across seven hospitals and primary care localities over four Plan–Do–Study–Act cycles. ‘Hub’ and ‘spoke’ clinics utilised independent prescribing pharmacists with different levels of cardiology experience. Pharmacists were trained through a bespoke training programme—‘Teach and Treat’. Consultant cardiologists provided senior support and governance. Patients attending prospective pharmacist-led clinics were more likely to be prescribed an ACEI (or ARB) and beta-blocker (n=856/885 (97%) vs n=233/255 (91%), p<0.001 and n=813/885 (92%) vs n=224/255 (88%), p=0.048, respectively) and be on target dose of ACEI (or ARB) and beta-blocker (n=585/885 (66%) vs n=64/255 (25%), p<0.001 and n=218/885 (25%) vs n=17/255 (7%), p<0.001, respectively) compared with baseline. The mean dose of ACEI (or ARB) and beta-blocker was also higher (79% vs 48% of target dose, p<0.001% and 48% vs 33% of target dose, p<0.001, respectively) compared with baseline. Use of secondary prevention medication was significantly improved by pharmacist and cardiology collaboration. These improvements were sustained across a 4-year period, supported by a novel approach called ‘Teach and Treat’ which linked training to defined clinical service delivery. Further work is needed to assess the impact of the programme on long-term CVD outcomes.
The prophylactic effects of long-acting granulocyte colony-stimulating factor for febrile neutropenia in newly diagnosed patients with epithelial ovarian cancer: a randomised controlled study
Authors: Li Lei , Ma Shuiqing , Wu Ming , Tan Xianjie , Zhong Sen , Lang Jinghe
Published: August 2019

Objective

This study explored the prophylactic effects of long-acting granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) for febrile neutropenia (FN) in newly diagnosed patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC).

Methods

Patients were randomised into a study group (long-acting G-CSF for all chemotherapy cycles) and a control group (short-acting G-CSF for first cycle and treatment per physician discretion for subsequent cycles) at a ratio of 1:2. The incidences of FN and myelosuppression and the number of clinical visits, medication doses, complete blood count (CBC) tests and adverse events were compared between the two groups. A regression model was used to determine the risk factors for FN.

Results

From 30 November 2018 to 1 April 2019, 84 cases were included in the final analysis; there were 24 (28.6%) and 60 (71.4%) patients in the study and control groups, respectively, and 605 chemotherapy cycles. The study group or chemotherapy cycles utilising long-acting G-CSF had significantly fewer utilisations and doses of short-acting G-CSF; clinical visits; CBC tests; and incidences of FN and myelosuppression; and less G-CSF-associated pain. The utilisation of G-CSF was the only independent factor for FN in a binary regression model.

Conclusion

Long-acting G-CSF could effectively reduce the incidences of FN and myelosuppression and had mild adverse effects in newly diagnosed patients with EOC receiving chemotherapy.

Trial registration number

NCT03740464.
Disorders of phosphate metabolism
Authors: Leung Jenny , Crook Martin
Published: August 2019

Phosphate in both inorganic and organic form is essential for several functions in the body. Plasma phosphate level is maintained by a complex interaction between intestinal absorption, renal tubular reabsorption, and the transcellular movement of phosphate between intracellular fluid and bone storage pools. This homeostasis is regulated by several hormones, principally the parathyroid hormone, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D and fibroblast growth factor 23. Abnormalities in phosphate regulation can lead to serious and fatal complications. In this review phosphate homeostasis and the aetiology, pathophysiology, clinical features, investigation and management of hypophosphataemia and hyperphosphataemia will be discussed.
This has been a real uphill battle — three organisations for the adoption of Last Planner System
Authors: Mäki Tarja , Kerosuo Hannele , Koskenvesa Anssi
Published: August 2019

This study examines the learning processes of the adoption of the Last Planner System (LPS) and mechanisms of learning indicating the successes and failures of their establishment in three organisations. The organisations under study are a public building agency, an engineering office, and a construction company. One practice-based methodology by Engeström and Sannino of organisational learning based on the theory of expansive learning was applied in the analysis. The ethnographic research data included the observation of LPS adoption processes and the interviews of the participants. This study links the epistemic learning actions of the theory of expansive learning to the adoption process of LPS. It also reveals the mechanisms that indicate the success or failure of the adoption process. A successful adoption process seems to require strong ownership, enough time, resources, and opportunities for learning together in practical project work, and the combination of top-down and bottom-up approaches.
Rejuvenation of short-term aged asphalt-binder using waste engine oil
Authors: Bai Tao , Hu Zi-ang , Hu Xiaodi , Liu Yang , Fuentes Luis , Walubita Lubinda F.
Published: August 2019

The work presented in this paper aims to improve the rheological properties and ductility characteristics of aged (short-term) asphalt-binder using waste engine oil (WEO). The WEO was injected into the aged asphalt-binder as three rejuvenators, namely A, B, and C — with Rejuvenator A being the treated WEO only. Rejuvenator B consists of treated WEO and furfural extraction oil. Rejuvenator C consists of Rejuvenator B composition plus epoxy resin. The asphalt-binder physical, ductility, rheological, and morphological properties were measured using the standard penetration, softening point, ductility, dynamic shear rheometer, bending beam rheometer, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy tests, respectively. Overall, the laboratory test results, with Rejuvenator C exhibiting superiority, indicated that, if properly preprocessed and treated with additive modifications, WEO can be beneficially used to rejuvenate short-term aged asphalt-binders, which can be a significant milestone towards “green” asphalt and environmental conservatism.
Applied holography of the AdS5–Kerr space–time
Authors: McInnes Brett
Published: August 2019

Asymptotically anti-de Sitter–Kerr black holes (we focus here on the five-dimensional case) are associated holographically with matter at conformal infinity which has a nonzero angular momentum density. It is natural to attempt to associate this angular momentum with the recently discovered vorticity of the plasmas produced in peripheral heavy-ion collisions. We assume that an AdS5–Kerr black hole with angular momentum to mass ratio [Formula: see text] is dual to boundary matter with an angular momentum density to energy density ratio also equal to [Formula: see text]. With this assumption, we find that, for collisions corresponding to a given value of [Formula: see text], there is a maximal possible angular velocity (well below the maximal value permitted by causality) for such matter at infinity, and that this value is in approximate agreement with the experimentally reported value of the average plasma vorticity produced in typical peripheral collisions of heavy ions.
Heart sound classification using machine learning and phonocardiogram
Authors: Arora Vinay , Leekha Rohan , Singh Raman , Chana Inderveer
Published: August 2019

This research pertains to classification of the heart sound using digital Phonocardiogram (PCG) signals targeted to screen for heart ailments. In this study, an existing variant of the decision tree, i.e. XgBoost has been used with unsegmented heart sound signal. The dataset provided by PhysioNet Computing in Cardiology (CinC) Challenge 2016 has been used to validate the technique proposed in this research work. The said dataset comprises six databases (A–F) having 3240 heart sound recordings in all with the duration lasting from 5–120 s. The approach proposed in this paper has been compared with 18 existing methodologies. The proposed method is accurate with the mean score of 92.9, while sensitivity and specificity scores are 94.5 and 91.3, respectively. The timely prediction of heart health will support specialists to attain useful risk stratification of patients and also assist clinicians in effective decision-making. These predictive facts may serve as a guide to provide improved quality of care to the patients by way of effective treatment planning and monitoring.
Schwinger’s picture of quantum mechanics III: The statistical interpretation
Authors: Ciaglia F. M. , Ibort A. , Marmo G.
Published: August 2019

Schwinger’s algebra of selective measurements has a natural interpretation in the formalism of groupoids. Its kinematical foundations, as well as the structure of the algebra of observables of the theory, were presented in [F. M. Ciaglia, A. Ibort and G. Marmo, Schwinger’s picture of quantum mechanics I: Groupoids, Int. J. Geom. Meth. Mod. Phys. (2019), arXiv: 1905.12274 [math-ph]. https://doi.org/10.1142/S0219887819501196 . F. M. Ciaglia, A. Ibort and G. Marmo, Schwinger’s picture of quantum mechanics II: Algebras and observables, Int. J. Geom. Meth. Mod. Phys. (2019). https://doi.org/10.1142/S0219887819501366 ]. In this paper, a closer look to the statistical interpretation of the theory is taken and it is found that an interpretation in terms of Sorkin’s quantum measure emerges naturally. It is proven that a suitable class of states of the algebra of virtual transitions of the theory allows to define quantum measures by means of the corresponding decoherence functionals. Quantum measures satisfying a reproducing property are described and a class of states, called factorizable states, possessing the Dirac–Feynman “exponential of the action” form are characterized. Finally, Schwinger’s transformation functions are interpreted similarly as transition amplitudes defined by suitable states. The simple examples of the qubit and the double slit experiment are described in detail, illustrating the main aspects of the theory.
Variation in Water Demand Responsiveness to Utility Policies and Weather: A Latent-Class Model
Authors: Stone Janine , Goemans Christopher , Costanigro Marco
Published: August 2019

Water utilities use demand-side management (DSM) policies to incentivize conservation during shortages. However, because utilities often use DSM policies for the first time during drought, it may be difficult to determine the extent to which policy responsiveness relates to an overall conservation culture, and short-term policy responsiveness may not be generalizable to non-drought periods. This research evaluates the impact of drought and utility policies using 10 years of household-level panel data in the first known application of a fixed-effects, latent-class model [Deb, P and PK Trivedi (2013). Finite mixture for panels with fixed effects. Journal of Econometric Methods, 2(1), 35–51] to water demand data. This flexible estimation approach identifies heterogeneity in policy responsiveness over time as it relates to drought conditions and changes in the utility’s billing structure. Two classes of water demand are identified — one associated with responsiveness to weather and a second with responsiveness to policies. In the class of water demand associated with weather, households are less sensitive to policy changes but exhibit increased sensitivity to precipitation both when the utility is actively promoting conservation (during severe drought) and in post-drought years. Implications for long-term effectiveness of utility conservation policies are discussed.
The Effect of Site Congestion on Valuing Freshwater Fishing for Urban Residents
Authors: Melstrom Richard T. , Welniak Taylor
Published: August 2019

This paper provides evidence that welfare estimates from recreation demand models can be severely biased if the model omits congestion effects. Congestion effects arise when crowding at popular sites lowers site values. Measuring the effect of congestion is complicated by a well-known endogeneity problem in revealed preference data. We study congestion effects in a sample of licensed anglers in Oklahoma City. We develop a site choice model of freshwater fishing, and correct for endogenous congestion using an instrumental variables strategy. Our results add to the growing weight of evidence that ignoring congestion leads to estimates that understate the value of individual sites and site amenities.
Empirical Application of Rubinstein Bargaining Model in Western U.S. Water Transactions
Authors: Isaaks Rowan , Colby Bonnie
Published: August 2019

Water transactions are proposed as a policy tool for increasing regional drought resilience and improving allocative efficiency. However, water trading deviates considerably from classical competitive markets and alternative theoretical approaches are useful for understanding water market structure and performance. In this paper, we model a bilateral water transaction using a non-cooperative bargaining model. Then we empirically test predictions regarding time preference, outside options, and water supply risk. The econometric analysis encompasses two transaction regions: Colorado’s Front Range and New Mexico’s Middle Rio Grande Basin. We find evidence suggesting that larger cities pay lower prices in water transactions, faster growing and higher income cities pay higher prices and that prices are higher when snowpack variability is higher. Findings suggest that a stronger time preference results in a less favorable price for urban buyers and that buyer risk-aversion is a greater disadvantage in bargaining in locations with greater water supply variability.
TEA-sensitive K+ channels and human eccrine sweat gland output
Authors: Mack Gary W. , Smith Benjamin S. , Rowland Benjamin
Published: August 2019

Cholinergic-activated sweating depends on an influx of Ca2+ from extracellular fluid. It is thought that the opening of K+ channels on secretory epithelial cells facilitates Ca2+ entry. We examined the hypothesis that tetraethylammonium (TEA)-sensitive K+ channels participate in sweat production. We used a pre-post experimental design and initiated cholinergic-mediated sweating with intradermal electrical stimulation, monitored local sweat rate (SR) with a small sweat capsule mounted on the skin, and delivered 50 mM TEA via intradermal microdialysis. Local SR was activated by intradermal stimulation frequencies of 0.2–64 Hz, and we generated a sigmoid-shaped stimulus-response curve by plotting the area under the SR-time curve versus log10 stimulus frequency. Peak local SR was reduced from 0.372 ± 0.331 to 0.226 ± 0.190 mg·min−1·cm−2 ( P = 0.0001) during application of 50 mM TEA, whereas the EC50 and Hill slopes were not altered. The global sigmoid-shaped stimulus-response curves for control and 50 mM TEA were significantly different ( P < 0.0001), and the plateau region was significantly reduced ( P = 0.0023) with the TEA treatment. The effect of TEA on peak local SR was similar in male and female subjects. However, we did note a small effect of sex on the shape of the stimulus-response curves during intradermal electrical stimulation. Overall, these data support the hypothesis that cholinergic control of sweat gland activity is modulated by the presence of TEA-sensitive K+ channels in human sweat gland epithelial cells.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY The contribution of various potassium channels to the process of cholinergic-mediated human eccrine sweat production is unclear. Using a novel model for cholinergic-mediated sweating in humans, we provide evidence that tetraethylammonium-sensitive K+ channels (KCa1.1 and Kv channels) contribute to eccrine sweat production.
An investigation of p53 in skeletal muscle aging
Authors: Ebert Scott M. , Dierdorff Jason M. , Meyerholz David K. , Bullard Steven A. , Al-Zougbi Asma , DeLau Austin D. , Tomcheck Kristin C. , Skopec Zachary P. , Marcotte George R. , Bodine Sue C. , Adams Christopher M.
Published: August 2019

Age-related skeletal muscle atrophy is a very common and serious condition that remains poorly understood at the molecular level. Several lines of evidence have suggested that the tumor suppressor p53 may play a central, causative role in skeletal muscle aging, whereas other, apparently contradictory lines of evidence have suggested that p53 may be critical for normal skeletal muscle function. To help address these issues, we performed an aging study in male muscle-specific p53-knockout mice (p53 mKO mice), which have a lifelong absence of p53 expression in skeletal muscle fibers. We found that the absence of p53 expression in skeletal muscle fibers had no apparent deleterious or beneficial effects on skeletal muscle mass or function under basal conditions up to 6 mo of age, when mice are fully grown and exhibit peak muscle mass and function. Furthermore, at 22 and 25 mo of age, when age-related muscle weakness and atrophy are clearly evident in mice, p53 mKO mice demonstrated no improvement or worsening of skeletal muscle mass or function relative to littermate control mice. At advanced ages, p53 mKO mice began to die prematurely and had an increased incidence of osteosarcoma, precluding analyses of muscle mass and function in very old p53 mKO mice. In light of these results, we conclude that p53 expression in skeletal muscle fibers has minimal if any direct, cell autonomous effect on basal or age-related changes in skeletal muscle mass and function up to at least 22 mo of age.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Previous studies implicated the transcriptional regulator p53 as a potential mediator of age-related skeletal muscle weakness and atrophy. We tested this hypothesis by investigating the effect of aging in muscle-specific p53-knockout mice. Our results strongly suggest that p53 activity within skeletal muscle fibers is not required for age-related skeletal muscle atrophy or weakness.
Mechanism Study and Reduction of Minivan Interior Booming Noise during Acceleration
Authors: Wu Yudong , Li Renxian , Ding Weiping , Croes Jan , Yang Mingliang
Published: August 2019

Interior booming noise during acceleration has been one of the most significant NVH problems for minivans. However, the generation mechanism of the interior booming noise remains unclear, so the access to reduce the booming noise is blocked. To solve the booming noise problem, a Source‐Path‐Receiver‐Model‐based approach is established to study the generation mechanism of the booming noise. Based on the generation mechanism, several modifications are proposed to reduce the minivan booming noise. In the established approach, the transfer path of the booming noise energy is figured out by the vehicle body and cavity experimental TPA, rear suspension dynamic analysis, and drivetrain torsional vibration analysis. Meanwhile, the vibroacoustic energy in the transfer processes is analyzed quantitatively. The identified generation mechanism is validated by the comparison of the test results of minivan interior noise and the simulation results from the established approach. During the minivan acceleration, the 5th torsional vibration mode (50.5 Hz) of the driveline is excited by the engine torsional vibration around 1500 r/min. Then, the driveline torsional resonance energy is transferred to the body and cavity through the rear suspension and finally leads to the interior booming noise. Based on the validated mechanism, several modifications are proposed to reduce the frequency response function of the driveline, the rear suspension, and the vehicle body around 50 Hz. With these modifications applied to the minivan, it is shown in the experimental results that the interior booming noise is reduced around 1500 r/min engine speed during acceleration. The mechanism study provides effective assistance with minivan interior booming noise reduction and the study approach also could be extended to explore the mechanism of other complex interior noise problems in automobiles.
Experimental Study of Polarized Radar Scattering from the Tree Canopy at the Ka-Band
Authors: Ku Chiung-Shen , Chang Pao-Chi , Chang Yang-Lang
Published: August 2019

In this study, experimental measurements were carried out to estimate the polarized backscattering coefficient at the Ka-band through deciduous and coniferous trees. By utilizing a ground-based scatterometer, the returned signal was obtained in three polarized states at an incident angle ranging from 30 to 80 degrees. The scattering coefficients were estimated from the radar equation for the distributed target under narrow beam approximation. Radiometric calibration was conducted using a metal sphere, and a set of corner reflectors was used as the calibration target to ensure measurement accuracy. Both frequency and angular response of backscattering coefficients with three polarizations were analyzed for the cases of deciduous (banyan) and coniferous (pine) trees. The results indicated that the dynamic range for HV polarization is higher than that of HH and VV polarizations for both banyan and pine trees. Comparatively, the dynamic range for the pine tree is larger than that of the banyan tree.
Achilles Tendon Repair by Decellularized and Engineered Xenografts in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Bottagisio Marta , D’Arrigo Daniele , Talò Giuseppe , Bongio Matilde , Ferroni Marco , Boschetti Federica , Moretti Matteo , Lovati Arianna B.
Published: August 2019

Tendon tissue ruptures often require the replacement of damaged tissues. The use of auto- or allografts is notoriously limited due to the scarce supply and the high risks of immune adverse reactions. To overcome these limitations, tissue engineering (TE) has been considered a promising approach. Among several biomaterials, decellularized xenografts are available in large quantity and could represent a possible solution for tendon reconstruction. The present study is aimed at evaluating TE xenografts in Achilles tendon defects. Specifically, the ability to enhance the biomechanical functionality, while improving the graft interaction with the host, was tested. The combination of decellularized equine-derived tendon xenografts with or without the matrix repopulation with autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) under stretch-perfusion dynamic conditions might improve the side-to-side tendon reconstruction. Thirty-six New Zealand rabbits were used to create 2 cm long segmental defects of the Achilles tendon. Then, animals were implanted with autograft (AG) as the gold standard control, decellularized graft (DG), or in vitro tissue-engineered graft (TEG) and evaluated postoperatively at 12 weeks. After sacrifice, histological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, and biomechanical analyses were performed along with the matrix metalloproteinases. The results demonstrated the beneficial role of undifferentiated BMSCs loaded within decellularized xenografts undergoing a stretch-perfusion culture as an immunomodulatory weapon reducing the inflammatory process. Interestingly, AG and TEG groups exhibited similar results, behaved similarly, and showed a significant superior tissue healing compared to DG in terms of newly formed collagen fibres and biomechanical parameters. Whereas, DG demonstrated a massive inflammatory and giant cell response associated with graft destruction and necrosis, absence of type I and III collagen, and a higher amount of proteoglycans and MMP-2, thus unfavourably affecting the biomechanical response. In conclusion, this in vivo study suggests a potential use of the proposed tissue-engineered constructs for tendon reconstruction.
Experimental Research and Theoretical Analysis of the Seismic Behavior of Prefabricated Semirigid Steel Frame with X‐Shaped Braces
Authors: Yang Rongqian , Zhou Xuejun
Published: August 2019

Three semirigid connections which are convenient for prefabrication have been proposed in this paper. Based on them, the quasi‐static test was conducted on three prefabricated semirigid steel frames with X‐shaped braces in order to investigate their hysteresis behavior, bearing capacity, energy dissipation capacity, and failure mechanism. A comparative analysis of the semirigid connections was made to analyze their advantages and disadvantages. Then, a numerical simulation was carried out via using ABAQUS to verify the test results, and the causes of the errors were analyzed. The results showed that the prefabricated semirigid steel frames with X‐shaped braces had good seismic behavior, the braces cooperated well with the steel frame in resisting lateral load, and the braces failed before the steel frame, which meant the structure had two seismic fortification lines. The results of the numerical simulation tallied with the test results, which means the finite element model could accurately simulate the structure’s mechanical behavior under cyclic loading. The structure had a better bearing capacity and ductility when using extended end‐plate bolted connections.
CDK7 Inhibition Suppresses Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer through MED1 Inactivation
Authors: Rasool Reyaz ur , Natesan Ramakrishnan , Deng Qu , Aras Shweta , Lal Priti , Sander Effron Samuel , Mitchell-Velasquez Erick , Posimo Jessica M. , Carskadon Shannon , Baca Sylvan C. , Pomerantz Mark M. , Siddiqui Javed , Schwartz Lauren E. , Lee Daniel J. , Palanisamy Nallasivam , Narla Goutham , Den Robert B. , Freedman Matthew L. , Brady Donita C. , Asangani Irfan A.
Published: August 2019

Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is a fatal disease, primarily resulting from the transcriptional addiction driven by androgen receptor (AR). First-line CRPC treatments typically target AR signaling, but are rapidly bypassed, resulting in only a modest survival benefit with antiandrogens. Therapeutic approaches that more effectively block the AR-transcriptional axis are urgently needed. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanism underlying the association between the transcriptional coactivator MED1 and AR as a vulnerability in AR-driven CRPC. MED1 undergoes CDK7-dependent phosphorylation at T1457 and physically engages AR at superenhancer sites, and is essential for AR-mediated transcription. In addition, a CDK7-specific inhibitor, THZ1, blunts AR-dependent neoplastic growth by blocking AR/MED1 corecruitment genome-wide, as well as reverses the hyperphosphorylated MED1-associated enzalutamide-resistant phenotype. In vivo, THZ1 induces tumor regression of AR-amplified human CRPC in a xenograft mouse model. Together, we demonstrate that CDK7 inhibition selectively targets MED1-mediated, AR-dependent oncogenic transcriptional amplification, thus representing a potential new approach for the treatment of CRPC.

Significance:

Potent inhibition of AR signaling is critical to treat CRPC. This study uncovers a driver role for CDK7 in regulating AR-mediated transcription through phosphorylation of MED1, thus revealing a therapeutically targetable potential vulnerability in AR-addicted CRPC.

See related commentary by Russo et al., p. 1490.

This article is highlighted in the In This Issue feature, p. 1469
Psychometric Properties of the Czech Version of the Falls Efficacy Scale-International in Patients with Early-Stage Dementia
Authors: Kisvetrová Helena , Školoudík David , Herzig Roman , Langová Kateřina , Kurková Petra , Tomanová Jitka , Yamada Yukari
Published: August 2019

Introduction: A fear of falling marks an important psychological factor connected with a reduction in the life space of people with dementia. The Czech version of the Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I) has not been validated in patients with early-stage dementia. Methods: The tests were administered to 282 patients with early-stage dementia. The test battery included the following: the FES-I, the Short Physical Performance Battery, the Geriatric Depression Scale, the Bristol Activity Daily Living Scale, and the Quality of Life-Alzheimer’s Disease Scale. Internal reliability (Cronbach’s α and intraclass correlation [ICC]), Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlations, exploratory factor analysis, and a t test for independent samples were used for statistical analyses. Results: The Czech version of the FES-I had excellent internal and test-retest reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.98, ICC = 0.90; 95% CI 0.82–0.94). Factor analysis suggested 2 relevant factors. A significantly higher FES-I score was associated with patients with early-stage dementia who were older (p = 0.003) or female (p = 0.001), lived alone (p = 0.0001), spent >8 h a day alone (p = 0.032), used mobility aids (p < 0.0001), or had severe hearing (p = 0.004) or vision impairment (p < 0.0001) or a lower education (r = –0.16, p = 0.007). Conclusion: The Czech version of the FES-I had very good reliability and validity and may be useful in future cross-cultural comparisons in research among patients with early-stage dementia.
Recurrent Fever and Failure to Thrive in an 11-Year-Old Boy
Authors: Stickel Felix , Wartenberg Martin , Bouzourene Hanifa , Ortner Maria Anna , Rogler Gerhard
Published: August 2019

Recurrent fever is frequent among children and mostly associated with viral infections inoculated via social contacts with others of the same age. Rarely, severe conditions such as hematological malignancies, pediatric rheumatoid diseases, chronic infections, or inherited recurrent fever syndromes are causative. Herein, we present the case of an 11-year-old boy with frequently recurring high-fever episodes since early childhood, failure to thrive, and iron deficiency who was found to have classical celiac disease (CD) with highly elevated tissue transglutaminase and anti-gliadin antibodies and marked duodenal villous atrophy. Upon implementation of a gluten-free diet, the boy ceased to have fevers, antibodies decreased markedly, his iron status improved, and he significantly gained weight. Although infrequent, recurrent fever should be included into the polymorphic clinical picture of CD, and the threshold of testing for diagnostic antibodies should be low in such patients.