bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conditional deletion of LRRC8A in the brain protects against stroke damage independently of effect on swelling-activated glutamate release
Authors: Balkaya Mustafa , Dohare Preeti , Chen Sophie , Schober Alexandra L. , Fidaleo Antonio M. , Nalwalk Julia W. , Sah Rajan , Mongin Alexander A.
Published: December 2022

The ubiquitous volume-regulated anion channels (VRACs), which are composed of LRRC8 proteins, facilitate cell volume homeostasis, and contribute to many other physiological processes. Prior studies demonstrated that treatment with non-specific VRAC blockers, or brain-specific deletion of the essential VRAC subunit LRRC8A, are highly protective in rodent stroke. In this work, we tested the widely accepted idea that harmful effects of VRACs in the brain are mediated by pathological release of the excitatory transmitter glutamate. We used two molecular genetic strategies to ablate LRRC8A expression in either brain astrocytes only (inducible deletion ofLrrc8aflox/floxwithAldh1l1CreERT2) or the majority of brain cells (neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes withNestinCre). To produce stroke, genetically modified mice were subjected to a 40-minute occlusion of the middle cerebral artery. The inducible deletion of astrocytic LRRC8A yielded no histological or behavioral protection. In contrast, the brain-wide LRRC8A knockout reduced ischemic infarction by ~50% in both heterozygotes (Het) and the fullLrrc8aknockout (KO) as compared to the controlLrrc8aflox/+genotype. However, despite identical brain damage, Het and KO mice dramatically differed in their VRAC activities. Het mice had full swelling-activated glutamate release, while KO animals showed its virtual absence. These new findings refute the notion that VRAC-mediated glutamate release plays significant role in ischemic brain injury.
Genome-wide analyses of neonatal jaundice reveal a marked departure from adult bilirubin metabolism
Authors: Solé-Navais Pol , Juodakis Julius , Ytterberg Karin , Wu Xiaoping , Vaudel Marc , Helgeland Øyvind , Flatley Christopher , Geller Frank , Finel Moshe , Zhao Mengqi , Lazarus Philip , Magnus Per , Andreassen Ole A. , Njolstad Pål R. , Feenstra Bjarke , Muglia Louis J. , Johansson Stefan , Zhang Ge , Jacobsson Bo
Published: December 2022

Jaundice affects almost all neonates in their first days of life and is caused by the accumulation of bilirubin. Although the core biochemistry of bilirubin metabolism is well understood, it is not clear why some neonates experience more severe jaundice and require treatment with phototherapy. Here, we present the first genome-wide association study of neonatal jaundice to date in nearly 30,000 parent-offspring trios from Norway (cases ≈ 2,000), with the most compelling locus located in theUGT1A*genes region. The alternate allele of a common missense variant affecting the sequence ofUGT1A4(with low affinity for bilirubin) reduces the susceptibility to jaundice five-fold (rs6755571, A allele OR = 0.2, p-value = 2.7 × 10−55, frequency = 6.4%). eQTL colocalization analyses indicate that the association may be driven by regulation ofUGT1A1(the primary bilirubin conjugation enzyme) in the intestines, but not in the liver. Analysis of the parental transmitted and non-transmitted alleles in 23,000 parent-offspring trios captures known effects of maternal-fetal ABO blood group incompatibility on neonatal jaundice. Our results reveal marked differences in the pathways involved in neonatal jaundice compared to those regulating bilirubin levels in adults, suggesting a distinct biological basis.
MERLIN-DEFICIENT iPSCs AS ANIN VITROMODEL SYSTEM FOR STUDIYNGNF2PATHOGENESIS
Authors: Catasús Núria , Torres-Martin Miguel , Rosas Inma , Kuebler Bernd , Casals-Sendra Gemma , Mazuelas Helena , Negro Alex , Roca-Ribas Francesc , Amilibia Emilio , Aran Begoña , Veiga Anna , Raya Ángel , Gel Bernat , Blanco Ignacio , Serra Eduard , Carrió Meritxell , Castellanos Elisabeth
Published: December 2022

NF2-related schwannomatosis is an autosomal dominant syndrome that predisposes to the development of benign tumors of the nervous system. Schwannomas, particularly bilateral vestibular schwannomas (VS), are the most characteristic features of the disease. These tumors are caused by the bi-allelic inactivation of theNF2gene in a cell of the Schwann cell lineage. Our current understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of theNF2gene, as well as the development of new effective therapies is hampered by the absence of human non-perishable cell-based bearing distinctNF2pathogenic variants. With this aim, we generated and characterized three isogenic paired induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines with single or bi-allelic inactivation ofNF2by combining the direct reprogramming of VS cells with the use of CRISPR/Cas9 editing. Our results show a critical function ofNF2for the maintenance of a stable pluripotent state. However, we were able to nudge them towards the Neural Crest-Schwann Cell (NC-SC) axis by applying a 3D Schwann cell differentiation protocol.NF2(+/−) andNF2(−/−) spheroids homogeneously expressed classical markers of the NC-SC lineage. In addition,NF2(−/−) SC-like spheroids showed dysregulation of multiple signaling pathways already described for merlin-deficient SC, and altered in human schwannomas. Therefore,NF2(+/−) andNF2(−/−) SC-like spheroids can represent a bona fide humanin vitrocellular model to study the role ofNF2pathogenesis.
Earnings management and underperformance after seasoned equity offerings: a cross-country study
Authors: Opare Solomon , Houqe Muhammad , van Zijl Tony
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This purpose of this study is to examine the association between earnings management (accruals earnings management (AEM) and/or real activities manipulation (RAM)) and firm underperformance following seasoned equity offerings (SEOs) using cross-country data.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies ordinary least squares regression analyses to a sample of 11,764 observations on firms from 22 countries over the period from 2005 to 2017. The methods include weighted least squares regression, sub-sampling approach and alternative measures of firm performance, earnings management and legal regime for robustness tests as well as a two-stage least squares instrumental variable (IV) approach to address endogeneity concerns.

Findings

The results suggest that RAM has a greater negative impact on post-SEO performance than AEM. The result is economically significant for RAM only. The results also reveal that the negative impact of earnings management, in particular RAM, on post-SEO performance is greater in countries with a strong legal regime than in other countries.

Practical implications

Earnings management around SEOs has important implications for investors, regulators and policymakers. The study suggests that policymakers should improve the current legal conditions to promote fairness in the equity market.

Originality/value

The results from the cross-country data support earlier results from single-country studies on the impact of earnings management on post-SEO performance. The study also provides new evidence on the variation in the impact of earnings management according to the strength of the legal regime operating in a country.
Adult autism spectrum disorder: knowledge, attitude and practice of health system professionals
Authors: Alaghband-rad Javad , Ardeshir Maryam , Hakki Kazazi Elham , Motamed Mahtab
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The prevalence of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is rising. As children with ASD become adults, the need for appropriate physical and mental health care becomes more evident. Lack of knowledge and inadequate training about adult ASD can lead to discomfort in management and service delivery to this population. This study aims to assess knowledge, attitude and practice of health-care providers for patients with adult ASD and to determine the needs of health-care staff to provide convenient care to adult patients with ASD.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2019–2020 among health-care professionals in Iran using an online questionnaire.

Findings

In this study, 182 health-care professionals (67.6% mental health professionals) participated. A minority of participants mentioned having excellent or very good knowledge about autism (10%) or acceptable access to clinical tools and guidelines (27%). Around 67% of professionals believed that patients with ASD are not cooperative. The most preferred training was training on effective communication strategies with ASD patients (64.8%).

Practical implications

The authors found a gap in knowledge and training of adult ASD diagnosis and management among health-care providers.

Originality/value

This study highlights the significance of empowering professionals with better training to manage adult autism.
Equine blood flow restriction training: Safety validation
Authors: Johnson Sherry A. , Frisbie David D. , Griffenhagen Gregg M. , King Melissa R.
Published: December 2022

Background

Blood flow restriction (BFR) has become a key rehabilitative tool for human orthopaedic conditions. With modernised technology and evolution of clinical application, patient‐specific delivery of occlusion percentages is now considered the standard of care in human patients due to improved therapeutic outcomes and minimised safety risks. Safety validation and limb occlusion pressure (LOP) data for horses, however, are lacking.

Objective

(1) To determine if BFR exposure resulted in forelimb biomechanical gait dysfunction as safety validation and (2) to investigate inter‐horse and inter‐limb LOP differences.

Study design

Controlled in vivo experiment.

Methods

Daily unilateral forelimb BFR was performed in four horses over 56 days. Clinical examinations and objective gait analyses were performed on Days 0, 28 and 56. Daily LOP values were determined by Doppler evaluation to deliver 80% vascular occlusion at a walk. A linear mixed model evaluated for differences in lameness, kinetic and kinematic gait parameters.

Results

There were no significant differences in forelimb lameness (range of Grades 0–2 across all forelimbs), kinematic or kinetic gait parameters over time or between BFR‐exposed and control (contralateral) limbs (p > 0.05). Clinically apparent complications related to BFR such as thrombosis or dermatitis were not appreciated. Significant differences in mean LOP values between various horses (p < 0.001) and measured left (204.48 mmHg) and right (173.78 mmHg) forelimbs (p < 0.001) were observed. Mean LOP and standard deviation across all readings was 189.1 ± 22.2 mmHg.

Main limitations

Optimal BFR occlusion percentages and protocols with documented clinical efficacy are unknown. Small study population.

Conclusions

Exposure to BFR did not result in forelimb biomechanical dysfunction in four horses. Applied pressures of 75–151 mmHg would likely simulate a range of 50%–80% vascular occlusion in horses, but inherent physiological variation between horses and forelimbs warrants incorporation of individual pressures.
Sex‐specific meiosis responses to Gsdf in medaka (Oryzias latipes)
Authors: Li Xi , Li Xinwen , Li Wenhao , Zhang Yingqing , Guo Haiyan , Wang Guangxing , Li Yayuan , Wu Xiaowen , Hu Ruiqin , Wang Siyu , Zhao Xiaomiao , Chen Liangbiao , Guan Guijun
Published: December 2022

The meiotic entry of undifferentiated germ cells is sexually specific and strictly regulated by the testicular or ovarian environment. Germline stem cells with a set of abnormal sex chromosomes and associated autosomes undergo defective meiotic processes and are eventually eliminated by yet to be defined post‐transcriptional modifications. Herein, we report the role of gsdf, a member of BMP/TGFβ family uniquely found in teleost, in the regulation of meiotic entry in medaka (Oryzias latipes) via analyses of gametogenesis in gsdf‐deficient XX and XY gonads in comparison with their wild‐type siblings. Several differentially expressed genes, including the FKB506‐binding protein 7 (fkbp7), were significantly upregulated in pubertal gsdf‐deficient gonads. The increase in alternative pre‐mRNA isoforms of meiotic synaptonemal complex gene sycp3 was visualized using Integrative Genomics Viewer and confirmed by real‐time qPCR. Nevertheless, immunofluorescence analysis showed that Sycp3 protein products reduced significantly in gsdf‐deficient XY oocytes. Transmission electron microscope observations showed that normal synchronous cysts were replaced by asynchronous cysts in gsdf‐deficient testis. Breeding experiments showed that the sex ratio deviation of gsdf−/− XY gametes in a non‐Mendelian manner might be due to the non‐segregation of XY chromosomes. Taken together, our results suggest that gsdf plays a role in the proper execution of cytoplasmic and nuclear events through receptor Smad phosphorylation and Sycp3 dephosphorylation to coordinate medaka gametogenesis, including sex‐specific mitotic divisions and meiotic recombination.
Mechanistic forecasts of species responses to climate change: The promise of biophysical ecology
Authors: Briscoe Natalie J. , Morris Shane D. , Mathewson Paul D. , Buckley Lauren B. , Jusup Marko , Levy Ofir , Maclean Ilya M. D. , Pincebourde Sylvain , Riddell Eric A. , Roberts Jessica A. , Schouten Rafael , Sears Michael W. , Kearney Michael Ray
Published: December 2022

A core challenge in global change biology is to predict how species will respond to future environmental change and to manage these responses. To make such predictions and management actions robust to novel futures, we need to accurately characterize how organisms experience their environments and the biological mechanisms by which they respond. All organisms are thermodynamically connected to their environments through the exchange of heat and water at fine spatial and temporal scales and this exchange can be captured with biophysical models. Although mechanistic models based on biophysical ecology have a long history of development and application, their use in global change biology remains limited despite their enormous promise and increasingly accessible software. We contend that greater understanding and training in the theory and methods of biophysical ecology is vital to expand their application. Our review shows how biophysical models can be implemented to understand and predict climate change impacts on species' behavior, phenology, survival, distribution, and abundance. It also illustrates the types of outputs that can be generated, and the data inputs required for different implementations. Examples range from simple calculations of body temperature at a particular site and time, to more complex analyses of species' distribution limits based on projected energy and water balances, accounting for behavior and phenology. We outline challenges that currently limit the widespread application of biophysical models relating to data availability, training, and the lack of common software ecosystems. We also discuss progress and future developments that could allow these models to be applied to many species across large spatial extents and timeframes. Finally, we highlight how biophysical models are uniquely suited to solve global change biology problems that involve predicting and interpreting responses to environmental variability and extremes, multiple or shifting constraints, and novel abiotic or biotic environments.
Measurement of Mass‐Independent Perturbations of Cadmium in Nuclear Debris Samples
Authors: Meininger Daniel J. , Kinman William S. , Hanson Susan K.
Published: December 2022

The isotopic composition of cadmium in nuclear debris was measured by multi‐collector inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (MC‐ICP‐MS). Mass‐independent perturbations due to fission product decay on the isotopes of Cd were observed. Relative fission yields for masses 111, 112, 114 and 116 were determined in each sample of nuclear debris and compared with reported values found in irradiated plutonium and uranium fuels. Mass spectrometry measurements of the valley fission product endpoints are extremely challenging due to the low cumulative fission yields and small amounts of each isotope that are produced. To overcome these challenges, a new purification method for Cd was developed and validated by examination of a number of geological reference materials.
Sorafenib plus hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy versus sorafenib alone for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Long Yin , Song Xingdong , Guan Yan , Lan Ran , Huang Ziqi , Li Senlin , Zhang Lei
Published: December 2022

Background

The combination of sorafenib and hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) is expected to exert a synergistic anticancer effect. We conducted this systematic review to examine the efficacy and safety of sorafenib plus HAIC vs sorafenib alone for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

We systematically searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library with the following search terms: “sorafenib,” “hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy,” “HAIC,” “advanced,” “hepatocellular carcinoma,” and “HCC.” Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs were calculated for overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS), and we calculated the pooled risk ratios (RRs) and 95% CIs for objective response rate (ORR) and adverse events (AEs).

Results

We found that sorafenib plus HAIC was associated with significantly better OS (HR, 0.56; 95% CI, 0.37–0.83; P < 0.01), PFS (HR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.27–0.72; P < 0.01), and ORR (RR, 3.77; 95% CI, 1.87–7.58; P < 0.01) than sorafenib alone in advanced HCC. Grade 3/4 AEs were more frequent in the sorafenib plus HAIC group, including leukopenia (RR, 4.54; 95% CI, 1.77–11.64; P < 0.01), neutropenia (RR, 7.81; 95% CI, 3.36–18.16; P < 0.01), thrombocytopenia (RR, 2.97; 95% CI, 1.98–4.46; P < 0.01), anemia (RR, 2.24; 95% CI, 1.22–4.09; P < 0.01), anorexia (RR, 2.37; 95% CI, 1.07–5.27; P = 0.03), nausea (RR, 2.98; 95% CI, 1.19–7.42; P = 0.02), and vomiting (RR, 3.99; 95% CI, 1.14–14.01; P = 0.03).

Conclusion

Sorafenib plus HAIC improved OS, PFS, and ORR compared with sorafenib alone in advanced HCC, with acceptable safety profile.
Unraveling urban advantages—A meta‐analysis of agglomeration economies
Authors: Donovan Stuart , de Graaff Thomas , de Groot Henri L. F. , Koopmans Carl C.
Published: December 2022

A large body of empirical literature considers the productive advantages of cities, or “agglomeration economies.” We present a meta‐analysis of this literature that draws on 6684 agglomeration elasticities from 294 studies spanning 54 countries and six decades. We find that elasticities are likely to lie in the range 0.015–0.039 and, like earlier reviews, that the controls enabled by detailed data are associated with smaller estimates. We make five main contributions: First, we find evidence that publication selection imparts a positive bias to the literature; second, we adopt novel methods that tend to yield more precise parameter estimates than conventional approaches; third, unlike earlier reviews, we do not find large differences between most countries nor an association with national income; fourth, we report new associations, for example between elasticities and the spatial scope of agglomeration, which may reflect underlying microeconomic channels; and fifth, we find evidence that elasticities for manufacturing sectors have fallen in recent decades, possibly due to lower freight costs and stricter environmental regulations.
A phenomenology of direct observation in residency: Is Miller's ‘does’ level observable?
Authors: Rietmeijer Chris B. T. , van Esch Suzanne C. M. , Blankenstein Annette H. , van der Horst Henriëtte E. , Veen Mario , Scheele Fedde , Teunissen Pim W.
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Guidelines on direct observation (DO) present DO as an assessment of Miller's ‘does’ level, that is, the learner's ability to function independently in clinical situations. The literature, however, indicates that residents may behave ‘inauthentically’ when observed. To minimise this ‘observer effect’, learners are encouraged to ‘do what they would normally do’ so that they can receive feedback on their actual work behaviour. Recent phenomenological research on patients' experiences with DO challenges this approach; patients needed—and caused—some participation of the observing supervisor. Although guidelines advise supervisors to minimise their presence, we are poorly informed on how some deliberate supervisor participation affects residents' experience in DO situations. Therefore, we investigated what residents essentially experienced in DO situations.

Methods

We performed an interpretive phenomenological interview study, including six general practice (GP) residents. We collected and analysed our data, using the four phenomenological lenses of lived body, lived space, lived time and lived relationship. We grouped our open codes by interpreting what they revealed about common structures of residents' pre‐reflective experiences.

Results

Residents experienced the observing supervisor not just as an observer or assessor. They also experienced them as both a senior colleague and as the patient's familiar GP, which led to many additional interactions. When residents tried to act as if the supervisor was not there, they could feel insecure and handicapped because the supervisor was there, changing the situation.

Discussion

Our results indicate that the ‘observer effect’ is much more material than was previously understood. Consequently, observing residents' ‘authentic’ behaviour at Miller's ‘does’ level, as if the supervisor was not there, seems impossible and a misleading concept: misleading, because it may frustrate residents and cause supervisors to neglect patients' and residents' needs in DO situations. We suggest that one‐way DO is better replaced by bi‐directional DO in working‐and‐learning‐together sessions.
Periplaneta americana extract promotes osteoblast differentiation of human alveolar bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Xu Jie , Zhao Bin , Lin Weimin , Liu Yuting , Zhang Xiao , Wang Yuan , Zhang Yanjun , Liu Weiqing , Seriwatanachai Dutmanee , Yuan Quan
Published: December 2022

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the effects of Traditional Chinese medicine, Periplaneta americana extract (PAE), on osteoblast differentiation of human alveolar bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hABMMSCs).

Materials and Methods

Human alveolar bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells were treated with different concentrations of PAE. Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay and transwell migration assay were conducted to evaluate cell proliferation and migration, respectively. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) staining, ALP activity assay, and Alizarin red S staining were performed to detect osteogenesis in hABMMSCs. In addition, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and western blot (WB) assay were performed to evaluate expression levels of osteogenic markers. Finally, RNA sequencing analysis and WB were carried out to elucidate the underlying mechanism.

Results

A total of 0.1 mg/ml PAE promoted cell proliferation and migration. PAE also increased ALP activity and mineralized nodule formation of hABMMSCs. In addition, PAE upregulated the expression of osteogenesis‐related genes (RUNX2, COL1A1, and BGLAP). RNA‐sequencing analysis revealed that PAE activated the focal adhesion signaling pathway. Treatment with Defactinib, an inhibitor of FAK, attenuated the effects induced by PAE.

Conclusions

PAE could enhance osteoblast differentiation of hABMMSCs through focal adhesion signaling pathway, suggesting a therapeutic potential for the alveolar bone defect.
Macrophage migration inhibitory factor MtMIF3 prevents the premature aging of Medicago truncatula nodules
Authors: Wang Li , Yang Jieyu , Tan Wenjun , Guo Yile , Li Jiaqi , Duan Chuntao , Wei Gehong , Chou Minxia
Published: December 2022

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a proinflammatory cytokine involved in immune response in animals. However, the role of MIFs in plants such as Medicago truncatula, particularly in symbiotic nitrogen fixation, remains unclear. An investigation of M. truncatula—Sinorhizobium meliloti symbiosis revealed that MtMIF3 was mainly expressed in the nitrogen‐fixing zone of the nodules. Silencing MtMIF3 using RNA interference (Ri) technology resulted in increased nodule numbers but higher levels of bacteroid degradation in the infected cells of the nitrogen‐fixing zone, suggesting that premature aging was induced in MtMIF3‐Ri nodules. In agreement with this conclusion, the activities of nitrogenase, superoxide dismutase and catalase were lower than those in controls, but cysteine proteinase activity was increased in nodulated roots at 28 days postinoculation. In contrast, the overexpression of MtMIF3 inhibited nodule senescence. MtMIF3 is localized in the plasma membrane, nucleus, and cytoplasm, where it interacts with methionine sulfoxide reductase B (MsrB), which is also localized in the chloroplasts of tobacco leaf cells. Taken together, these results suggest that MtMIF3 prevents premature nodule aging and protects against oxidation by interacting with MtMsrB.
Animal Advocacy and the “Good Cop‐Bad Cop” Radical Flanking of Laboratory Research
Authors: Evans Erin M.
Published: December 2022

This research explores the concurrent effects of radical and reformist approaches to animal advocacy on how animal welfare is institutionalized in laboratory research. The long‐term outcomes of militant animal rights activism are not adequately explained by the two current radical flank effect models: a positive effect where militancy helps moderates, and a negative effect where militancy compromises the movement as a whole. Interviews and participant observation were used to identify a third model—good cop‐bad cop radical flanking—that more accurately captures how a longstanding radical fringe of activism affects the institutionalization of animal advocates' demands. Contrary to existing models that describe immediate radical flank effects, a good cop‐bad cop model helps explain the long‐term effects of militancy and reformism on institutional practices, where activists' seemingly opposing efforts are, in fact, mutually reinforcing.
Second hepatitis C virus transmission by blood components since introduction of mandatoryNATscreening in Germany
Authors: Himmelsbach Kiyoshi , Mueller Susanne , Kress Julia , Fiedler Sarah A. , Miskey Csaba , Ivics Zoltan , Patek Alexander , Chudy Michael
Published: December 2022

Background

Viral safety of blood products in Germany has improved significantly over the last two decades. We describe the second documented transfusion‐transmitted (TT) episode for the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in Germany since mandatory nucleic acid amplification techniques (NAT) screening was introduced in 1999.

Study Design and Methods

When a repeat donor who had tested negative for anti‐HCV tested positive for HCV RNA by NAT in a minipool (MP) of eight, a look‐back procedure was initiated. Qualitative, quantitative and genotyping assays were used to investigate the titers of the quarantined fresh frozen plasma (FFP) from the donor and a serum sample from the recipient of the pooled platelet concentrate (PPC). Amplified products of 5'UTR and HVR1 were used for sequence comparison to characterize the HCV genomic identity of donor and recipient samples.

Results

All NAT tests utilized in this procedure were able to detect a low HCV RNA titer (~15 IU/ml) in the FFP from the donation. Dilution of FFP by factor 8 was performed to mimic an MP, and the detection rate correlated well with the claimed sensitivity of the tests. Analysis of donor and recipient samples revealed genotype 3a viral transmission confirmed by sequence analysis.

Conclusion

This TT HCV case could have been prevented by individual donation (ID) NAT. However, a low titer blood donation in the window period (WP) is very rare. Residual risk calculation for TT HCV in the WP revealed that, compared to MP‐NAT testing, ID‐NAT would improve blood safety only marginally.
PHYTOCHEMICALS, ANTIOXIDANT AND ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY OF CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACTED BY SOLVENT-FREE MICROWAVE EXTRACTION
Authors: Idris Farhana Nazira , Abd Shukor Syamsul Rizal , Mohd Nadzir Masrina
Published: December 2022

Solvent-free microwave extraction (SFME) is a green extraction method that requires no solvent and has a short extraction time. This study extracted Centella asiatica using SFME and analysed the extract for its phytoconstituents, phenolic content, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity. Extraction of 20 g fresh C. asiatica by SFME was carried out for 15 min at 300 W, under vacuum and with stirring. Analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) demonstrated that the extract contained phytonutrients such as flavonoids, polyphenol, tannins, and volatile oils. The extract from SFME also produced an IC50 of 0.06 mg/ml and 10.75±0.61 mg GAE/g dry weight of TPC. Using the disc diffusion method, the extract of C. asiatica also exhibited antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter sp., Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Penicillium chrysogenum and Aspergillus japonicus. This study showed that the                C. asiatica extract from SFME retained the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties but in a shorter extraction time and without any solvent. As a result, using green extraction to extract this plant can help to preserve its nutritional content and valuable compounds, which is essential when formulating pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic products.
A Sampling Inspection Plan for Continuous Production
Authors: Dodge H. F.
Published: December 2022

The plan of sampling inspection, described for individual parts, subassemblies, finished articles, and the like, is intended primarily for use in process inspection where there must be assurance that the percentage of defective units is kept down to a low prescribed figure. The system is particularly applicable to products manufactured by conveyer or similar straight-line continuous processes. The object of the plan is to establish a limiting value of “average outgoing quality,” expressed as a percentage of defective units, which will not be exceeded no matter what quality may be submitted to the inspector.
Problems of Construction and Alternate Substitutions in Wood Aircraft
Authors: Stevens J. M.
Published: December 2022

Some of the problems coincident with the greatly expanded use of wood and plywood in aircraft construction are discussed in this paper. A greater use of certain approved alternate wood species in place of spruce and other critical aircraft materials is advocated. Several specific examples of what can be accomplished in the way of simplifying and standardizing the construction of flat and molded plywood constructions are presented.
Analysis of Stretch-Forming Double-Curved Sheet-Metal Parts
Authors: Glassco R. B. , Myklestad N. O.
Published: December 2022

Double-curved surfaces, typical in airplane design, are classified according to direction of curvature. A qualitative stress analysis is made of stretch-forming (process of clamping metal sheet at two opposite edges and forcing a punch into the taut sheet) each class of surface, with special reference to the stress transverse to the direction of restraint. It is shown that there are two distinctly different sources of transverse stress during stretching. The resultant stress may be tension or compression, depending upon the direction and amount of curvature. When the resultant transverse stress is compression, undesirable wrinkling of the sheet may occur.
Plastic Plywoods in Aircraft Construction
Authors: Hiscocks R. D.
Published: December 2022

Using a typical fuselage fabricated from plastic plywood and veneer as an example, the author indicates the general procedure followed in building wood aircraft. Basic design problems were solved by extensive investigations and tests conducted by the National Research Council. A method is described for fabricating disposable fuel tanks for fighter planes from veneer and plywood, as representing the wide range of possiblities of wood in war and postwar industry.
Wear-Resisting Materials for Lathe Construction
Authors: Dayton R. W. , Lorig C. H. , Adams R. E.
Published: December 2022

It was found, from tests of all the materials now in general use as the bearing surfaces of lathes, that the combination of hardened steel and alloy cast iron was far more wear-resistant than others and was adequately scoring-resistant.

A process referred to as “flame refining” was developed for improving the wear resistance of cast iron. An iron treated by this process and used with hardened steel formed the best combination tested, having greatly improved wear resistance and scoring resistance.

A wear test in simulated lathe service confirmed the earlier work and also showed that for minimum wear of a combination containing cast iron and hardened steel, the steel should form the carriage surface and the cast iron the bed surface.
Radiation Pyrometry in Turbosupercharger Testing
Authors: Head V. P.
Published: December 2022

With increase in operating temperatures and speeds of turbines such as are used in turbosuperchargers, the demands for turbine-wheel and bucket temperature measurement have become increasingly exacting. Requests appear for such measurements under operating conditions with measurement tolerances varying from ±50 F in flight test to ±5 F in certain ground tests. This paper outlines the procedures used for measurements ranging from as low as 300 F up.
Maintenance of Hydroelectric Generating Units
Authors: Bragg George H.
Published: December 2022

This paper covers the complete overhaul of a 40,000-hp vertical Francis-type hydraulic turbine, operating under 454 ft head to drive a 35,000-kva generator at 257 rpm. Some of the work done was to repair normal wear due to operation over a 20-year period. Other work was of a corrective nature modifying the original design to include improvements found desirable after prolonged operation. Interesting problems were met and solved in some of the work, which involved the handling of heavy parts, and in the use of materials not originally included in the design of the unit.
Bursting Tests of Steam-Turbine Disk Wheels
Authors: Robinson Ernest L.
Published: December 2022

Bursting tests on model disks of steam-turbine-rotor material both with and without a central hole show that the average hoop stress at bursting speed for a good alloy steel is likely to exceed the tensile strength of the material as determined in an ordinary tensile test whether or not the hole is present. With a good turbine-wheel material, the maximum stress at bursting speed in a flat disk, calculated on the basis of elastic theory, greatly exceeds the tensile strength of the material; and if there is a central hole, it is more than double the tensile strength. Thus a comparison of tensile strength with average hoop stress in a wheel gives a fairly reasonable estimate of the factor of safety against actual bursting. Test results are also given on low-carbon and on high-alloy materials.
“Temp-turb” Temperature-Control System
Authors: Campbell J. R.
Published: December 2022

The “Temp-turb” system of temperature control, described in this paper, consists basically of a means for utilizing the kinetic energy in a flowing fluid in a manner to control the temperature of the fluid. A turbine wheel, the blades of which change their position with temperature changes, has all, or a sample of the flowing fluid, passed through it. Direction of rotation, rate of rotation, and torque output are a function of temperature when fluid-flow rate is constant. Power available from the turbine wheel actuates the valves which determine the fluid temperature.
Effect of Some Environmental Conditions on the Mechanical Properties of Cellulose Acetate and Cellulose Nitrate Plastic Sheets
Authors: Lawton T. S. , Carswell T. S. , Nason H. K.
Published: December 2022

The effect of ambient temperature, relative humidity, testing speed, and sheet thickness on the tensile properties, and of temperature on the compressive, flexural, shear, and impact properties of cellulose acetate and cellulose nitrate plastic sheets is shown in detail, and the general nature of these effects is summarized.
Boiler Nozzles and Valve Inlets for Maximum-Capacity Safety Valves
Authors: Falls E. K.
Published: December 2022

This paper gives results of a developmental program for a safety-valve design which would be capable of discharging the greatest amount of fluid that could flow through a given size inlet, within the limitations imposed by entrance conditions of pressure, and either temperature or quality. Conditions were determined which would guarantee satisfactory performance, and also those which might possibly contribute to poor entrance conditions of the design developed, or any other design using the same inlet condition. Suggestions are made by the author for consideration when new Boiler Code rules are established for high-capacity valves: (a) Welding rings should be prohibited in boiler-safety-valve nozzles. (b) Rounded-surface entrances are requisite. (c) Welding metal should not interfere with flow at outside edge of entrance surface. (d) Minimum distances from entrance to other surfaces should be specified.
Ignition Through Fuel Beds on Traveling- or Chain-Grate Stokers
Authors: Carman E. P. , Reid W. T.
Published: December 2022

Within recent times as part of its exhaustive studies on the burning of solid fuels on grates, the Bureau of Mines has investigated the factors affecting the burning of fuels on the cross-feed principle. Small-scale laboratory experiments, where the many variables could be closely controlled, have furnished information on the behavior of various fuels on traveling-grate stokers. Out of the wide range of results obtained, the present paper is limited generally to the study of ignition travel through a fuel bed and to important factors affecting it. Later reports will cover other phases of the investigation.
Presentation of Centrifugal-Compressor Performance in Terms of Nondimensional Relationships
Authors: Del Mar B. E.
Published: December 2022

The common difficulties encountered in handling performance information on centrifugal compressors or superchargers are overcome by a new and novel form of performance presentation introduced in this paper. Nondimensional coefficients which embody measured test quantities are derived and performance presentation is made using values of these coefficients on a single combined chart. From this chart the pressure, temperature, flow, speed, and power quantities, associated with a given blower, may be predicted over a broad range of inlet and discharge conditions. Particular facility is offered for orientation with respect to operation at peak efficiencies, for avoidance of surge limits, and for direct performance comparison among different compressors.
A Pneumatic Piston-Ring Gage for Radial-Pressure Measurement
Authors: Exline P. G.
Published: December 2022

This paper describes an instrument for indicating the radial pressure distribution of piston rings. The piston ring is supported at eighteen equally spaced points by flat-faced pins located around the circumference of a circle of the same size as the engine cylinder. The force exerted on each pin by the ring is measured by a self-balancing pneumatic device which simultaneously indicates all the forces on a row of eighteen manometers. The rapidity with which the measurements can be made makes the instrument suitable for production inspection.
Testing of Precision-Lathe Spindles
Authors: Eoley G. M.
Published: December 2022

During the war the aircraft industry has demanded the mass production of parts to tolerances previously possible only from the most highly skilled workmanship. In the case of small parts, the tolerances, stated in absolute units, are of the smallest order. This situation led the Bunting Brass and Bronze Company, producer of small bushings, to sponsor research on the design and performance of small precision-lathe spindles, in order that improvements might be made which would result in the production of parts to closer tolerances than had previously been achieved. This paper describes the development and operation of spindle-testing equipment capable of measuring continuously and at any speed changes in the position of the spindle axis relative to the quill as small as one microinch.
Instability of Thin-Walled Tubes Subjected to Internal Pressure
Authors: Espey G.
Published: December 2022

A preceding paper advances the criterion that the maximum-load or pressure conception of instability is applicable to geometrical shapes other than the tensile test. This paper presents experimental analysis to support the theoretical conception advanced for the necking of tubing subjected to pure longitudinal tension, to balanced biaxial tension, and to plane strain with the major strain being circumferential. It also shows that the stress-strain curve in uniaxial tension can be used to predict the necking strain for tubing under various stress states.
The Supply of Air to Coal-Fired Steam Locomotives
Authors: Sherman R. A. , Browne W. H. , Engdahl R. B.
Published: December 2022

As part of the program of research for Bituminous Coal Research, Inc., means by which the performance of coal-fired steam locomotives can be improved are being investigated. Because of the importance of the method and of the rate of supply of air in any combustion process, an analysis has been made of the factors that govern the supply of air to the locomotive by its unique method of discharge of the exhaust steam to the stack through the front-end nozzle. The analysis shows that for any given front-end arrangement and locomotive, there is a definite upper limit of output of the locomotive at which the weight of air supplied will equal that required for the fuel burned. A similar but lower limit applies on the basis of fuel fired. Below these limits the percentage of excess air will increase with decreasing output of the locomotive; above the limits there will be a deficiency of air. The position of the limits is determined by the performance characteristics of the engine, of the boiler, and of the front-end arrangement. A program of research is outlined which is aimed to supply information (a) on the design of front ends for maximum combustion efficiency through proper excess air and minimum carry-over of cinders, and for maximum power output through reduction in back pressure on the cylinders, and (b) on the merits of overfire air in improving combustion efficiency through reduction in carry-over of cinders.
Rotational Drop-Testing of Airplane Main Landing Gear
Authors: Gayman W. H.
Published: December 2022

The immediate physical objectives of drop-testing are presented, together with a general method for conducting rotational tests that have proper contact velocity and energy relationships coincidental with the absence of undesirable dynamic reactions at the pivot axis. Application of the method to tests of the main landing gear of the Models PV-1 and PV-2 patrol bombers is discussed. Conclusions drawn from dynamic-load measurements emphasize the possibility of attaining excessive loads in the drag-resisting structure when the impact surface is horizontal and the gear is inclined to simulate resultant loading of any particular design condition. It is implied that the practice of dropping the test gear on an inclined platform during translational drop tests may result in un-conservative loading unless deliberate compensation is afforded.
Association of maternal polygenic risk scores for mental illness with perinatal risk factors for offspring mental illness
Authors: Ratanatharathorn Andrew , Chibnik Lori B. , Koenen Karestan C. , Weisskopf Marc G. , Roberts Andrea L.
Published: December 2022

We examined whether genetic risk for mental illness is associated with known perinatal risk factors for offspring mental illness to determine whether gene-environmental correlation might account for the associations of perinatal factors with mental illness. Among 8983 women with 19,733 pregnancies, we found that genetic risk for mental illness was associated with any smoking during pregnancy [attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and overall genetic risk], breast-feeding for less than 1 month (ADHD, depression, and overall genetic risk), experience of intimate partner violence in the year before the birth (depression and overall genetic risk), and pregestational overweight or obesity (bipolar disorder). These results indicate that genetic risk may partly account for the association between perinatal conditions and mental illness in offspring.
Novel Multilocus Sequence Typing and Global Sequence Clustering Schemes for Characterizing the Population Diversity of Streptococcus mitis
Authors: Kalizang’oma Akuzike , Kwambana-Adams Brenda , Chan Jia Mun , Viswanath Aishwarya , Gori Andrea , Richard Damien , Jolley Keith A. , Lees John , Goldblatt David , Beleza Sandra , Bentley Stephen D. , Heyderman Robert S. , Chaguza Chrispin
Published: December 2022

Streptococcus mitis
is a common oral commensal and an opportunistic pathogen that causes bacteremia and infective endocarditis; however, the species has received little attention compared to other pathogenic streptococcal species. Effective and easy-to-use molecular typing tools are essential for understanding bacterial population diversity and biology, but schemes specific for
S. mitis
are not currently available.
Inferior mesenteric vein thrombosis in the setting of testosterone therapy
Authors: Manongi Ngoda , Byrns Kory , Fulman Malvina , Jaffer Amir
Published: December 2022

Inferior mesenteric vein thrombosis (IMVT) is a rare and potentially lethal complication that can progress to mesenteric ischaemia if left untreated. We report a case of a man in his 70s with a history of polycythaemia vera (PV) with a known negative Janus kinase-2 mutation (JAK2V617) who was started on testosterone therapy 2 months before presenting with left lower quadrant abdominal and flank pain. Evaluation revealed thrombocytosis and IMVT on CT scan. A non-operative approach was deferred for anticoagulation therapy. Within 24 hours, the patient demonstrated significant clinical improvement, and he subsequently made a full recovery. The patient underwent 6 months of anticoagulation therapy with Apixaban. This case documents the first case of IMVT in the setting of PV and testosterone therapy in the literature.
Traumatic encephalopathy syndrome: application of new criteria to a cohort exposed to repetitive head impacts
Authors: Ritter Aaron , Shan Guogen , Montes Arturo , Randall Rebekah , Bernick Charles
Published: December 2022

Objective

To examine the characteristics of those who fulfil the recent National Institute of Neurological Disease and Stroke (NINDS) Consensus Diagnostic Criteria for Traumatic Encephalopathy Syndrome (TES) and test whether they show differences in MRI-based regional brain volumes, cognitive domains, and certain plasma biomarkers.

Methods

Professional fighters 35 years of age or older and/or retired were included. Participants were categorised as either having TES (TES+) or not (non-TES). TES+ participants were further subtyped by their cognitive profile. Multiple linear regression models were used to compare MRI-based regional brain volumes, cognitive performance, plasma tau and neurofilament light levels between TES– and TES+ groups.

Results

176 participants (110 boxers and 66 MMA) were included in the analysis. 72 (41%)/176 were categorised as having TES, the likelihood of TES increasing with age. TES+ participants tended to be boxers, started fighting at a younger age, had more professional fights and knocked out more frequently. The TES+ group had lower regional brain volumes including both grey and white matter structures. TES+ also had lower scores on simple and choice reaction time, psychomotor speed and Trails A .

Conclusion

The new TES criteria does distinguish a group of fighters with differences in regional brain volumes and reduced cognitive function. Our findings support the use of the NINDS criteria for TES in further research of the long-term effects of repetitive head impacts.