bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulated Moving Bed Purification for Flavonoids from Tartary Buckwheat Shell
Authors: Li Liangyu , Liu Wanxia , Song Dawei , Li Chaoyang , Jia Pengyu , Niu Guagcai
Published: March 2020

Tartary buckwheat shell is an important by-product of Tartary buckwheat production. Previous studies shown that Tartary buckwheat shells are rich in flavonoids, which are responsible for their antioxidant properties. Due to lack of advanced separation technologies, the purification for Tartary buckwheat shell is still in the laboratory scale, and could not realize the industrialization production. According to the results of static adsorption experiment, AB-8 resin was selected for Tartary buckwheat shell flavonoids (TBSF) adsorption. The adsorption isotherm, resin adsorption thermodynamic and dynamic adsorption parameters were studied. And the adsorption of AB-8 resin for TBSF was determined as an endothermic process. Results of preparative chromatography experiment showed that TBSF could be efficiently purified by AB-8 resin. And the optimal parameters were: feed concentration 25 mg/mL, desorption flow rate 2.5 mL/min. Under these conditions, the TBSF were separated effectively. Results of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer (LC-MS) indicated that there were seven kinds of flavonoids in Tartary buckwheat shell, which were mainly from the 40 and 60% of ethanol elution. Simulated moving bed (SMB) was applied for TBSF purification the first time in this study. The optimal conditions of SMB were as following: adsorption zone flow rate 7.0 mL/min, contaminant removal zone flow rate 17.9 mL/min, product elution zone flow rate 22.3 mL/min, regeneration zone flow rate 21.5 mL/min, water washing zone flow rate 27.5 mL/min, switching time 1260 S, and the purity and yield of TBSF was 90 ± 0.22% and 85 ± 0.28%, respectively. The IC50 values of α-glucosidase inhibition activities and DPPH scavenging activity of the purified TBSF were 57.09 ± 0.15 and 7.92 ± 0.23 μg/mL, respectively. The constituents of TBSF showed higher α-glucosidase inhibition activities and antioxidant than raw TBSF and rutin. The results suggest that SMB is a proper method for industrial production of TBSF, and SMB could be applied for other natural products purification.
Lot-to-lot variation in three thyroid-related radioimmunoassay kits.
Authors: Zweig M H , Robertson E A
Published: March 2020

We examined lot-to-lot variation in triiodothyronine, thyroxine, and thyrotropin radioimmunoassay kits over 14–20 months. For the thyroxine assay, less than 20% of the overall variation was attributable to lot-to-lot changes. In contrast, for the triiodothyronine and thyrotropin assays half to two-thirds of the overall variation was attributable to lot-to-lot differences. The shifts seen in control results were also observed in results for patients. These shifts produced disturbing deviations on quality-control charts but did not appear to compromise the clinical utility of the results. We conclude that lot-to-lot variation can account for a major part of the long term variability of radioimmunoassay kit results and should be considered in evaluating kits and monitoring their performance.
Comparison of dronedarone vs. flecainide in the maintenance of sinus rhythm, following electrocardioversion in adults with persistent atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wilson Hannah , Patton Declan , Moore Zena , O’Connor Tom , Nugent Linda
Published: March 2020

Aims

To compare flecainide and dronedarone for sinus rhythm (SR) maintenance following electrocardioversion of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF), in patients with minimal or no structural heart disease.

Methods and results

A systematic search of publications using EMBASE, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and MEDLINE (1989–2019), identified a total of 595 articles. No limitations were applied. Nine articles met the inclusion criteria [five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and four cohort studies], encompassing 1349 persistent AF candidates. Two retrospective studies compared flecainide with dronedarone, indicating a 6% reduced risk of AF recurrence with flecainide; however, results were not statistically significant [risk ratio (RR) 0.94, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71–1.24; P = 0.66]. One RCT compared dronedarone to placebo, demonstrating a 28% reduced risk of AF recurrence at 6 months (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.58–0.90; P = 0.004). Two RCTs compare flecainide to placebo, when a 16% decreased risk of AF recurrence at 6–12 months was indicated; however, these results were not statistically significant (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.66–1.07; P = 0.16). Within a 6- to 12-month follow-up period, a combined recurrence rate of AF was examined, in which flecainide and dronedarone maintained SR in 50% and 42%, respectively. Four articles satisfied quality appraisal, one of which focused on flecainide data.

Conclusion

Dronedarone and flecainide displayed similar efficacy in maintaining SR in patients following electrocardioversion for persistent AF. The SR maintenance was numerically but not statistically significant in the flecainide group. Side effects uncovered similar pro-arrhythmic activity. However, in light of the deficiency of volume and quality of available evidence, the writer acknowledges the requirement for future research.
Early results from a prospective, single-arm European trial on decellularized allografts for aortic valve replacement: the ARISE study and ARISE Registry data
Authors: Horke Alexander , Tudorache Igor , Laufer Günther , Andreas Martin , Pomar Jose L , Pereda Daniel , Quintana Eduard , Sitges Marta , Meyns Bart , Rega Filip , Hazekamp Mark , Hübler Michael , Schmiady Martin , Pepper John , Rosendahl U , Lichtenberg Artur , Akhyari Payam , Jashari Ramadan , Boethig Dietmar , Bobylev Dmitry , Avsar Murat , Cebotari Serghei , Haverich Axel , Sarikouch Samir
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVES

Decellularized aortic homografts (DAH) may provide an additional aortic valve replacement option for young patients due to their potential to overcome the high early failure rate of conventional allogenic and xenogenic aortic valve prostheses.

METHODS

A prospective, European Union-funded, single-arm, multicentre, safety study was conducted in 8 centres evaluating non-cryopreserved DAH for aortic valve replacement.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-four patients (99 male) were prospectively enrolled between October 2015 and October 2018, mean age 33.6 ± 20.8 years; 45% had undergone previous cardiac operations. Mean implanted DAH diameter 22.6 ± 2.4 mm and mean durations for the operation, cardiopulmonary bypass and cross-clamp were 341 ± 140, 174 ± 80 and 126 ± 43 min, respectively. There were 2 early deaths (1 LCA thrombus on day 3 and 1 ventricular arrhythmia 5 h postop) and 1 late death due to endocarditis 4 months postoperatively, resulting in a total mortality of 2.08%. One pacemaker implantation was necessary and 1 DAH was successfully repaired after 6 weeks for early regurgitation following subcoronary implantation. All other DAH were implanted as a free-standing root. After a mean follow-up of 1.54 ± 0.81 years, the primary efficacy end points peak gradient (mean 11.8 ± 7.5 mmHg) and regurgitation (mean 0.42 ± 0.49, grade 0–3) were excellent. At 2.5 years, freedom from explantation/endocarditis/bleeding/stroke was 98.4 ± 1.1%/99.4 ± 0.6%/99.1 ± 0.9%/99.2 ± 0.8%, respectively, with results almost identical to those in an age-matched Ross operation cohort of 212 patients (mean age 34 years) despite DAH patients having undergone >2× more previous procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

The initial results of the prospective multicentre ARISE trial show DAH to be safe for aortic valve replacement with excellent haemodynamics in the short follow-up period.
Subxiphoid uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic pulmonary segmentectomy: effect of learning curve and future perspectives
Authors: Abdellateef Amr , Ma Xiaoyu , Qiao Wenxiang , Chen Zhigang , Wu Liang , Cai Jianqiao , Jiang Lei
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVES

Subxiphoid uniportal video-assisted thoracoscopic segmentectomy (SU-VATs) has been widely adopted because it is associated with better postoperative pain scores. Nevertheless, it also has had some limitations that have gradually been decreasing. Therefore, our goal was to evaluate the change in perioperative results with SU-VATs as the learning curve developed to outline the current status and the points that should be of future concern.

METHODS

Three hundred patients who underwent SU-VATs from September 2014 to May 2018 were divided chronologically into 2 groups; group 1 comprised the first 150 cases and group 2 comprised the last 150 cases. Different perioperative variables were analysed and compared between the 2 groups. In addition, the cumulative sum analysis and multivariable logistic regression were conducted to identify the cut-off point and predictors of significant improvement in operative time.

RESULTS

The cumulative sum analysis showed significant improvement in the operative time after the 148th case. Group 2 showed a statistically significant decrease in operative time (104.3 ± 36.7 vs 132 ± 43.1 min; P < 0.001), amount of operative blood loss [50 (80 ml) vs 100 (50 ml); P < 0.001], chest drain duration (2.6 ± 1.6 vs 3.2 ± 1.4 days; P = 0.004) and hospital stay (3.7 ± 1.7 vs 4.2 ± 1.7 days; P = 0.008). The number of dissected lymph nodes was significantly higher in the second group [11 (4) vs 9 (4); P < 0.001].

CONCLUSIONS

Limitations of SU-VATs are being overcome by the improvement in the learning curve and in the expertise of the surgeons. Our future concerns should focus on examining the long-term survival rate, the oncological efficacy and the effect on quality of life.
Leaving no one behind: health equity as a catalyst for the sustainable development goals
Authors: Buzeti Tatjana , Madureira Lima Joana , Yang Lin , Brown Chris
Published: March 2020

2019 has been a milestone year for catalyzing changes to improve health equity in the WHO European Region through concomitant progress in the sustainable development goal (SDG) targets. The WHO European Health Equity Status Report Initiative (HESRi) has captured and analyzed the relationships between inequities in health and the conditions that are essential for all to be able to live healthy and prosperous lives. The five essential conditions map directly onto a number of SDG targets, with a much broader span than SDG3 on health. They are: (i) Universal access to good-quality, affordable health services; (ii) Basic income security and social protection; (iii) Safe and decent living conditions; (iv) Inclusive social and human capital building opportunities; and (v) Decent and non-discriminatory employment and working conditions. There is certainly room for improvement in the way ahead, particularly in the availability of fine-grained and disaggregated data, and in the quality of monitoring and analysis of policy options that this would allow. However, the work of the HESRi shows that by harnessing such data it is possible to show what actions policymakers can take in the present to ensure that no one is left behind. This equity framing allows to measure whether the progress on SDGs benefits all, including those who need them most.
Host identity is more important in structuring bacterial epiphytes than endophytes in a tropical mangrove forest
Authors: Yao Hui , Sun Xiang , He Chao , Li Xing-Chun , Guo Liang-Dong
Published: March 2020

Interactions between plants and microbes are involved in biodiversity maintenance, community stability and ecosystem functioning. However, differences in the community and network structures between phyllosphere epiphytic and endophytic bacteria have rarely been investigated. Here, we examined phyllosphere epiphytic and endophytic bacterial communities of six mangrove species using Illumina MiSeq sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. The results revealed that the community structure of epiphytic and endophytic bacteria was different. Plant identity significantly affected the diversity and community structure of both epiphytic and endophytic bacteria, with a greater effect on the community structure of the former than the latter. Network analysis showed that both plant–epiphytic and plant–endophytic bacterial network structures were characterized by significantly highly specialized and modular but lowly connected and anti-nested properties. Furthermore, the epiphytic bacterial network was more highly specialized and modular but less connected and more strongly anti-nested than the endophytic bacterial network. This study reveals that the phyllosphere epiphytic and endophytic bacterial community structures differ and plant identity has a greater effect on the epiphytic than on the endophytic bacteria, which may provide a comprehensive insight into the role of plant identity in driving the phyllosphere epiphytic and endophytic microbial community structures in mangrove ecosystems.
Structure and distribution of nitrite-dependent anaerobic methane oxidation bacteria vary with water tables in Zoige peatlands
Authors: Zhong Qiuping , Xue Dan , Chen Huai , Liu Liangfeng , He Yixin , Zhu Dan , He Zhili
Published: March 2020

The recently discovered nitrite-dependent anaerobic methane oxidation (n-damo) is an important methane sink in natural ecosystems performed by NC10 phylum bacteria. However, the effect of water table (WT) gradient due to global change on n-damo bacterial communities is not well studied in peatlands. Here, we analysed the vertical distribution (0–100 cm) of n-damo bacterial communities at three sites with different WTs of the Zoige peatlands in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Using an n-damo bacterial specific 16S rRNA gene clone library, we obtained 25 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) that could be divided into Groups A, B, C, D and E (dominated by A and B). The dominant group was Group B at the high (OTU14 and OTU20) and intermediate (OTU7 and OTU8) WT sites and Group A was dominant at the low WT site (OTU6 and OTU5). Using high-throughput sequencing, we observed that n-damo bacteria mainly distributed in subsurface soils (50–60 and 20–30 cm), and their relative abundances were higher at the low WT site than at the other two sites. In addition, we found that pH and nitrate were positively correlated with Group A, while total organic carbon, total nitrogen and ammonia were positively associated with Group B. Our study provides new insights into our understanding of the response of n-damo bacteria to WT gradient in peatlands, with important implications for global change.
Modulation of insect-induced oxidative stress responses by microbial fertilizers in Brassica juncea
Authors: Sharma Garima , Mathur Vartika
Published: March 2020

Microbial fertilizers have increasingly gained popularity as environmentally sustainable nutritional supplement for plant growth. However, the effect of these microbes on plant-induced responses and the resultant effect on late-arriving herbivores are still unclear. Following insect herbivory, oxidative stress is one of the earliest responses induced in plants. Therefore, we analyzed the effect of phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (PSB), vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhiza (VAM) and their combination on oxidative stress in Brassica juncea against Spodoptera litura herbivory. Six antioxidant enzymes, viz. superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), monodehydroascorbate reductase and glutathione reductase (GR), were studied. Our results indicated a sporadic increase of APX and GR in PSB-supplemented plants. In contrast, VAM-supplemented plants showed an active systemic response against herbivory with an increase in all the six enzymes at 72 h. Conversely, supplementation of PSB–VAM together led to increased APX, SOD, CAT and POD enzymes, which subsided by 72 h. Thus, the presence of VAM, alone or in combination with PSB, acted like a vaccination for plants against stress. However, the mode of action of PSB and VAM governed the temporal dynamics of antioxidants. Our study thus shows microbial fertilizers have prominent effects on plant immunity.
Emotion Recognition and Reactivity in Persons With Neurodegenerative Disease Are Differentially Associated With Caregiver Health
Authors: Brown Casey L , Wells Jenna L , Hua Alice Y , Chen Kuan-Hua , Merrilees Jennifer , Miller Bruce L , Levenson Robert W
Published: March 2020

Background and Objectives

Motivated by the high rates of health problems found among caregivers of persons with neurodegenerative disease, we examined associations between deficits in two aspects of care recipients’ socioemotional functioning and their caregivers’ health.

Research Design and Methods

In 2 studies with independent samples (N = 171 and 73 dyads), caregivers reported on care recipients’ emotion recognition and emotional reactivity. Caregiver health was assessed using both self-report measures (Studies 1 and 2) and autonomic nervous system indices (Study 2).

Results

Lower emotion recognition in care recipients was linearly associated with worse self-reported health, faster resting heart rate, and greater physiological reactivity to an acoustic startle stimulus in caregivers. These effects held after accounting for a variety of risk factors for poor caregiver health, including care recipients’ neuropsychiatric symptoms. Emotional reactivity showed a quadratic association with health, such that the lowest and highest levels of emotional reactivity in care recipients were associated with lower self-reported health in caregivers.

Discussion and Implications

Results shed light on the unique associations between two aspects of care recipients’ emotional functioning and caregivers’ health. Findings suggest potential ways to identify and help caregivers at heightened risk for adverse health outcomes.
Meta-analysis of epilepsy prevalence in West Africa and its relationship with onchocerciasis endemicity and control
Authors: Siewe Fodjo Joseph Nelson , Remme Jan H F , Preux Pierre-Marie , Colebunders Robert
Published: March 2020

Background

A high prevalence and incidence of epilepsy has been reported in onchocerciasis-endemic regions in Central and East Africa. There is compelling epidemiological evidence suggesting that this high burden is caused by onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy (OAE). We hypothesized that OAE had also occured in West African onchocerciasis foci.

Methods

We searched PubMed, the African Journals Online platform and grey literature for population-based epilepsy studies in West African countries. Epilepsy and onchocerciasis prevalence data were extracted. The pre-control onchocerciasis endemicity in the study sites was estimated from historical data of onchocerciasis control programmes. The prevalence of epilepsy in different sites was analysed, taking into account onchocerciasis endemicity and the duration of control.

Results

The pooled prevalence of epilepsy in the West African study sites was 13.14 per 1000 (95% confidence interval 11.28–15.00). Higher pre-control endemicity and a shorter duration of onchocerciasis control were both associated with increased epilepsy prevalence (p<0.001). Two studies in Ivory Coast that provided detailed descriptions of persons with epilepsy in onchocerciasis-endemic settings revealed that most of them had features of OAE (73.7% and 83.3%, respectively).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that before and during the early years of implementing onchocerciasis control in West Africa, high onchocerciasis endemicity resulted in a high prevalence of OAE and that subsequent control efforts significantly reduced the prevalence of OAE.
Iatrogenic Thermal Burns Secondary to Marine Sting Treatment
Authors: Lewis Christopher J , Wood Fiona , Goodwin-Walters Anna
Published: March 2020

Hot water immersion (HWI) therapy is an effective and validated treatment for a variety of marine stings. Unsupervised, however, it poses a significant risk of thermal injury. Herein, we describe our experience of iatrogenic thermal injury secondary to marine sting treatment. A 5-year retrospective review of all iatrogenic thermal burns secondary to marine stings referred to the State Adult Burn Service was conducted. Nine patients were identified, all sustaining stings to the feet from estuarine cobblerfish, stonefish, and stingrays. All patients continued unsupervised HWI at home and sustained thermal injury to their feet. The majority were treated conservatively with dressings and elevation. One patient required surgical debridement. While heat application is an effective treatment for marine stings, further patient education is required following discharge from point of care. We recommend that first-aid treatment guidelines be updated to reflect that patients are not recommended to continue scalding water immersion at home. However, if patients wish to continue HWI, water temperature should be checked manually with a thermometer or with a nonstung limb and limited to 30 minutes immersion, with 30-minute skin recovery time between.
Cybersecurity, Technological Neutrality, and International Trade Law
Authors: Gagliani Gabriele
Published: March 2020

There have already been several studies focusing on cybersecurity and international trade but the intersection between the two is multifaceted and can be approached from several viewpoints. This article focuses on cybersecurity and international trade from the specific perspective of technological neutrality. Although technological neutrality is recognized with different degrees of intensity both under World Trade Organization Covered Agreements and free trade agreements in a diverse range of fields (such as trade in services, technical barriers to trade, or intellectual property), its status in international trade law is unclear. In this uncertain context, it is argued here, technological neutrality has the potential of expanding the scope of trade obligations unpredictably. As a result, in the face of pressing cybersecurity concerns, technology-related trade measures risk to constantly violate trade obligations, making the trade-cybersecurity relationship even more complicated. The possibility to clarify the status of technological neutrality and the scope of technology-neutral provisions is chief among the solutions proposed in this article. Additionally, this article suggests for States either to be compensated when a trade-restrictive cybersecurity measure affects them, or to consider adopting a waiver in the field of technology, similar to what has been carried out in other areas.
Genetic identity concerns in the regulation of novel reproductive technologies
Authors: Ludlow Karinne
Published: March 2020

Confusion concerning a child’s genetic identity is a common objection to the application of novel technologies to human embryos. Unsurprisingly then, concern for genetic identity has been used to justify successive waves of regulatory activity and is again appearing in debates about regulatory responses to emerging reproductive technologies. By examining the history of Australian law’s understanding and responses to so-called genetic identity in the context of past and current scientific developments in reproductive technology, this paper investigates regulatory reform needed for still emerging reproductive technologies. While this paper presents and analyzes in some detail Australian regulation and the policy deliberations and scientific developments that led to them, the identified inconsistencies in the regulatory responses, and recommended reforms to address emerging reproductive technologies offered, address issues relevant to many countries responding to the same technologies.
Evaluating the Utility of Polygenic Risk Scores in Identifying High-Risk Individuals for Eight Common Cancers
Authors: Jia Guochong , Lu Yingchang , Wen Wanqing , Long Jirong , Liu Ying , Tao Ran , Li Bingshan , Denny Joshua C , Shu Xiao-Ou , Zheng Wei
Published: March 2020

Background

Genome-wide association studies have identified common genetic risk variants in many loci associated with multiple cancers. We sought to systematically evaluate the utility of these risk variants in identifying high-risk individuals for eight common cancers.

Methods

We constructed polygenic risk scores (PRS) using genome-wide association studies–identified risk variants for each cancer. Using data from 400 812 participants of European descent in a population-based cohort study, UK Biobank, we estimated hazard ratios associated with PRS using Cox proportional hazard models and evaluated the performance of the PRS in cancer risk prediction and their ability to identify individuals at more than a twofold elevated risk, a risk level comparable to a moderate-penetrance mutation in known cancer predisposition genes.

Results

During a median follow-up of 5.8 years, 14 584 incident case patients of cancers were identified (ranging from 358 epithelial ovarian cancer case patients to 4430 prostate cancer case patients). Compared with those at an average risk, individuals among the highest 5% of the PRS had a two- to threefold elevated risk for cancer of the prostate, breast, pancreas, colorectal, or ovary, and an approximately 1.5-fold elevated risk of cancer of the lung, bladder, or kidney. The areas under the curve ranged from 0.567 to 0.662. Using PRS, 40.4% of the study participants can be classified as having more than a twofold elevated risk for at least one site-specific cancer.

Conclusions

A large proportion of the general population can be identified at an elevated cancer risk by PRS, supporting the potential clinical utility of PRS for personalized cancer risk prediction.
Endovascular aneurysm repair in a centenarian: case report and systematic literature review
Authors: Sheikh Zara , Crockett Stephen , Selvakumar Sadasivam
Published: March 2020

The prevalence of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) in the nonagenarian and centenarian populations is set to increase. Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) has been shown to be achievable with excellent outcomes in carefully selected nonagenarians. However, experience with centenarians is limited. We report the case of a 100-year-old who presented with a tender 8-cm AAA and successfully underwent EVAR. This report describes the second case of AAA repair in a centenarian in the literature and the first reported EVAR in this demographic. The patient survived for 2 years after the procedure, was free of EVAR or aneurysm-related complications. Furthermore, we present a systematic review of the existing literature and insights pertaining to outcomes in nonagenarians undergoing EVAR.
Giant phyllodes tumor occupying the whole breast in a young female: feasibility of mastectomy and immediate reconstruction
Authors: Kolia Aikaterini K , Kalles Vasileios , Zografos Constantinos G , Chamzin Alexandros , Michalopoulos Nikolaos V
Published: March 2020

Giant phyllodes tumors are rare fibroepithelial breast neoplasms typically >10 cm by definition. The best investigation for preoperative diagnosis is core biopsy, although it is often difficult for the pathologist to distinguish fibroadenomas from phyllodes tumors and determine the level of malignant potential. The wide excision is the appropriate therapy for phyllodes tumors taking into consideration that mastectomy may be required for huge phyllodes tumors. In the modern era of breast tissue expanders and breast implants, immediate breast reconstruction is feasible. We present a case report of a patient with a giant phyllodes tumor of 24 cm diameter who underwent mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction with breast tissue expander.
SMA observations of Haro 2: molecular gas around a hot superbubble
Authors: Beck Sara C , Hsieh Pei-Ying , Turner Jean
Published: March 2020

Haro 2, a nearby dwarf starburst dwarf galaxy with strong Ly α emission, hosts a starburst that has created outflows and filaments. The clear evidence for galactic outflow makes it an ideal candidate for studying the role of molecular gas in feedback processes in a dwarf galaxy. We observed CO(2–1) in Haro 2 at the Submillimeter Array in the compact and extended configurations, and have mapped the molecular emission with velocity resolution 4.1 km s−1 and spatial resolution 2.0 × 1.6 arcsec2. With this significant increase of resolution over previous measurements, we see that the molecular gas comprises two components: bright clumps associated with the embedded star clusters of the starburst, and fainter extended emission east of the starburst region. The extended emission coincides with an X-ray bubble and has the kinematic signatures of an outflowing cone or of an expanding shell or bubble; the velocity range is ∼35 km s−1. We suggest that the starburst winds that created the X-ray bubble have entrained the molecular gas, and that the apparent velocity gradient at an angle to the photometric axis is an artefact caused by the outflow. The molecular and X-ray activity is on the east of the galaxy and the ionized outflow and optical filaments are west; their relationship is not clear.
Finding binary black holes in the Milky Way with LISA
Authors: Sesana Alberto , Lamberts Astrid , Petiteau Antoine
Published: March 2020

We determine the main properties of the Galactic binary black hole (BBH) population detectable by Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) and strategies to distinguish them from the much more numerous white dwarf binaries. We simulate BBH populations based on cosmological simulations of Milky Way-like galaxies and binary evolution models. We then determine their gravitational wave emission as observed by LISA and build mock catalogues. According to our model, LISA will detect ≈4 (6) BBHs assuming 4 (10) yr of operations. Those figures grow to ≈6 (9) when models are re-normalized to the inferred LIGO/Virgo merger rates. Largely independent on mass and distance, sources emitting at f > 0.5 mHz – 40 per cent (70 per  cent) of the detections – have a measurable frequency drift, which allows a good enough chirp mass measurement to separate them from the much lighter white dwarf and neutron star binaries. Most of the remaining, lower frequency, sources should be identifiable by their lack of electromagnetic (EM) counterpart within ≈100 pc. These results are robust with respect to the current uncertainties of the BBH merger rate as measured by LIGO/Virgo as well as the global mass spectrum of the binaries. Based on the LIGO/Virgo merger rate, we determine that there is a 94 per  cent chance that LISA finds at least one of these systems within 4 yr, which will allow us to pinpoint the conditions where they were formed and possibly find unique EM signatures.
Actinomycin D downregulates Sox2 and improves survival in preclinical models of recurrent glioblastoma
Authors: Taylor Jessica T , Ellison Stuart , Pandele Alina , Wood Shaun , Nathan Erica , Forte Gabriella , Parker Helen , Zindy Egor , Elvin Mark , Dickson Alan , Williams Kaye J , Karabatsou Konstantina , McCabe Martin , McBain Catherine , Bigger Brian W
Published: March 2020

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) has been extensively researched over the last few decades, yet despite aggressive multimodal treatment, recurrence is inevitable and second-line treatment options are limited. Here, we demonstrate how high-throughput screening (HTS) in multicellular spheroids can generate physiologically relevant patient chemosensitivity data using patient-derived cells in a rapid and cost-effective manner. Our HTS system identified actinomycin D (ACTD) to be highly cytotoxic over a panel of 12 patient-derived glioma stemlike cell (GSC) lines. ACTD is an antineoplastic antibiotic used in the treatment of childhood cancers. Here, we validate ACTD as a potential repurposed therapeutic for GBM in 3-dimensional GSC cultures and patient-derived xenograft models of recurrent glioblastoma.

Methods

Twelve patient-derived GSC lines were screened at 10 µM, as multicellular spheroids, in a 384-well serum-free assay with 133 FDA-approved compounds. GSCs were then treated in vitro with ACTD at established half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50). Downregulation of sex determining region Y–box 2 (Sox2), a stem cell transcription factor, was investigated via western blot and through immunohistological assessment of murine brain tissue.

Results

Treatment with ACTD was shown to significantly reduce tumor growth in 2 recurrent GBM patient-derived models and significantly increased survival. ACTD is also shown to specifically downregulate the expression of Sox2 both in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that, as predicted by our HTS, ACTD could deplete the cancer stem cell population within the tumor mass, ultimately leading to a delay in tumor progression.

Key Points

1. High-throughput chemosensitivity data demonstrated the broad efficacy of actinomycin D, which was validated in 3 preclinical models of glioblastoma.

2. Actinomycin D downregulated Sox2 in vitro and in vivo, indicating that this agent could target the stem cell population of GBM tumors.
A Systematic Review of the Association Between Perceived Injustice and Pain-Related Outcomes in Individuals with Musculoskeletal Pain
Authors: Carriere Junie S , Donayre Pimentel Stephania , Yakobov Esther , Edwards Robert R
Published: March 2020

Objective

A growing body of literature shows that justice-related appraisals are significant determinants of pain-related outcomes and prolonged trajectories of recovery. We conducted a systematic review of the literature assessing the relationship between perceived injustice and pain-related outcomes in individuals with musculoskeletal pain.

Design and Participants

A search of published studies in English in PubMed, PsychInfo, Embase, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews from database inception through May 2019 was performed. Search terms included “perceived injustice,” “injustice appraisals,” “perceptions of injustice,” and “pain” or “injury.”

Results

Thirty-one studies met inclusion criteria. Data for a total of 5,969 patients with musculoskeletal pain were extracted. Twenty-three studies (71.9%) reported on individuals with persistent pain lasting over three months, and 17 studies (53.1%) reported on individuals with injury-related musculoskeletal pain. Significant associations were found between perceived injustice and pain intensity, disability and physical function, symptoms of depression and anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, quality of life and well-being, and quality of life and social functioning.

Conclusions

This systematic review summarizes the current evidence for the association between perceived injustice and pain-related outcomes. There is strong evidence that perceived injustice is associated with pain intensity, disability-related variables, and mental health outcomes. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Shared Practice, Learning, and Goals between Police and Young People: A Qualitative Analysis of the National Volunteer Police Cadets
Authors: DeMarco Jeffrey , Bifulco Antonia
Published: March 2020

Engaging all members of the public is of paramount importance to British policing. This assists with demystifying the role of police in society, and also providing a shared vision and partnership between communities and the criminal justice system. The National VPC programme provides the opportunity to achieve this, recruiting diverse young people into a structured programme led by a range of police officers and staff. A series of focus groups were conducted across the country with both cadets and adult leaders to explore the benefits of the cadet programme for both groups—those relevant to policing but also more widely for community cohesion and individual development. Although the benefits to policing were clearly articulated, a range of strengths to the programme were also identified.
Social Media and the Changing Information Environment
Authors: Kraft Patrick W , Krupnikov Yanna , Milita Kerri , Ryan John Barry , Soroka Stuart
Published: March 2020

There is reason to believe that an increasing proportion of the news consumers receive is not from news producers directly but is recirculated through social network sites and email by ordinary citizens. This may produce some fundamental changes in the information environment, but the data to examine this possibility have thus far been relatively limited. In the current paper, we examine the changing information environment by leveraging a body of data on the frequency of (a) views, and recirculations through (b) Twitter, (c) Facebook, and (d) email of New York Times stories. We expect that the distribution of sentiment (positive-negative) in news stories will shift in a positive direction as we move from (a) to (d), based in large part on the literatures on self-presentation and imagined audiences. Our findings support this expectation and have important implications for the information contexts increasingly shaping public opinion.
EFFECTIVE DOSE FOR RADIOLOGICAL PROCEDURES IN AN EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors: Naseri Maryam , Shahsavan Mohammad , Salahshour Faeze , Peiman Soheil , Allameh Seyed Farshad , Farzanehfar Saeed , Emami-Ardekani Ali Reza , Pouraliakbar Hamidreza , Abbasi Mehrshad
Published: March 2020

The extent of radiation exposure in emergency settings is not well documented; here, the corresponding effective dose (ED) is provided. In 500 patients admitted in row to the emergency department, ED was compared in patients according to complaints and their visiting physicians. Out of all, 220 patients aged 43.5 ± 22.2 years (admission: 2.0 ± 1.6 days) had at least an imaging. The main reasons for admission were trauma (10.5%) and then orthopedic problems (8.6%). EDs from CT and radiography were 1.66 ± 3.59 and 0.71 ± 1.67 mSv, respectively (from all 2.29 ± 4.12). Patients with abdominal (5.8 ± 5.2 mSv; p < 0.002) and pelvic (12.0 ± 6.3 mSv; p < 0.007) complaints received higher ED from CT and radiography and, also, patients visited by surgeons (7.94 ± 6.9 mSv). CT scan was the main source for ED to patients. Irrespective of the final diagnosis, patients with abdominopelvic complaints and those visited by surgeons are at higher exposure risk.
PATIENT-SPECIFIC DOSIMETRY USING IN-HOUSE DEVELOPED OSL DISC DOSEMETERS
Authors: Kumar Pradip , Sharma Sunil Dutt , Dhabekar Bhushan , Mishra Devesh Ramdhar , Rawat Narender Singh , Kadam Sonal , Chaudhari Suresh , Chandola Rakesh Mohan , Agrawal Sadhana
Published: March 2020

Circular discs of diameter 5 mm were made from three indigenously developed optically stimulated luminescent (OSL) phosphors for medical dosimetry. Dosimetric characteristics of these discs were evaluated for their use in machine and patient-specific dosimetry in radiotherapy. Uncertainty in dosimetric measurements using these discs was also estimated, and combined standard uncertainty in measurement of absorbed dose was found to be 3.34%. Characterisation studies indicate that OSL discs are suitable for dosimetric application in radiotherapy. These discs were also used for patient-specific dosimetry in conventional and conformal radiotherapy treatments (five different cases) vis-à-vis ionisation chamber and Gafchromic EBT3 film. Doses measured by OSL discs were found comparable to ionisation chamber and Gafchromic EBT3 film measured values and radiotherapy treatment planning system (TPS) calculated dose values in all the cases. The variation between TPS calculated dose values and OSL discs measured dose values was found within the measurement uncertainty.
A REMOTE CONTINUOUS AIR MONITORING SYSTEM FOR MEASURING AIRBORNE ALPHA CONTAMINATION
Authors: Morishita Yuki , Usami Hiroshi , Furuta Yoshihiro , Aoki Katsunori , Tsurudome Koji , Hoshi Katsuya , Torii Tatsuo
Published: March 2020

We developed a remote continuous air monitoring (RCAM) system. The RCAM system consisted of a personal air monitor and a robot. The personal air monitor (poCAMon, SARAD, Germany) had a 400-mm2 ion-injected silicon detector and a membrane air filter with 25 mmφ. The personal air monitor provides the alpha energy spectra for any measurement time interval. Demonstration measurements were taken underground at the Mizunami Underground Research Laboratory and at a poorly ventilated concrete building. The RCAM system was remotely operated and successfully measured the 222Rn progeny even though the relative humidity was almost 100%. In the measured alpha spectra, the peaks of 218Po (6.0-MeV alpha) and 214Po (7.7-MeV alpha) were clearly identified. Our developed monitor is promising for alpha dust monitoring in a high gamma-ray environment or contaminated areas where a worker cannot safely physically enter.
“Healthier Than Just Healthy”: Families Transmitting Health as Cultural Capital
Authors: Mollborn Stefanie , Rigles Bethany , Pace Jennifer A
Published: March 2020

As the relationship between social class and health strengthens and socioeconomic and health inequalities widen, understanding how parents’ socioeconomic advantage translates into health and class advantages in the next generation is increasingly important. Our analyses illustrate how a classed performance of “health” is a fundamental component of transmitting cultural capital in families and communities. Socially advantaged parents’ health and class goals for children are often met simultaneously by building children’s cultural capital in community-specific ways. This study uses observational, interview, and focus group data from families in two middle-class communities to illustrate how health-focused cultural capital acquisition plays out in everyday life. As parents manage children’s lives to ensure future advantages, they often focus on health-related behaviors and performances as symbols of class-based distinction for their children. The synergy between family and community cultural capital is strengthening class and health advantages for some children, even as health-focused cultural capital often has drawbacks for stress and well-being. The intensification of and value placed on “health” in cultural capital may have long-term implications for health, socioeconomic attainment, and inequalities. If health-focused cultural capital continues to become increasingly salient for status attainment, its importance could grow, widening these gaps and reducing intergenerational mobility.
The BCPAP Score: Five Questions to Assess the Effectiveness of a Bubble CPAP Circuit
Authors: John Stephen C , Cheng Eric O , John Sunil P
Published: March 2020

Respiratory illnesses are a leading cause of infant mortality worldwide. Bubble CPAP is a simple and effective treatment for infants in respiratory distress. Across resource-limited settings, various bubble CPAP setups have been used with widely varying results. Based on fundamental fluid dynamics principles and clinical experience, the BCPAP score has been developed to gauge effectiveness of bubble CPAP delivery in different settings. Five questions addressing Bubbles, Circuit, Prongs, Airway and Pressure allow clinicians to rapidly determine whether they are delivering effective bubble CPAP. This article describes how to calculate a BCPAP score and explains the rationale behind the BCPAP score.
Revision ofNannopterygius(Ichthyosauria: Ophthalmosauridae): reappraisal of the ‘inaccessible’ holotype resolves a taxonomic tangle and reveals an obscure ophthalmosaurid lineage with a wide distribution
Authors: Zverkov Nikolay G , Jacobs Megan L
Published: March 2020

The Late Jurassic ichthyosaur Nannopterygius is among the poorest known, with the only skeleton, NHMUK PV 46497, on display in the Natural History Museum, London and, therefore, difficult to access. This holotype specimen is here reassessed. The newly obtained data have enabled the identification of several additional specimens of Nannopterygius in museum collections across the UK. Furthermore, all the material of Russian ichthyosaurs previously referred to genera Paraophthalmosaurus and Yasykovia, and considered as junior synonyms of Ophthalmosaurus in the majority of subsequent works, are also reassessed. Both these genera are synonymized with Nannopterygius with preservation of the two from six originally erected species: Nannopterygius saveljeviensis comb. nov. and Nannopterygius yasykovi comb. nov. Additionally, a new species from the Berriasian of Arctic (Svalbard and Franz Josef Land) is proposed. To resolve the phylogenetic relations within Ophthalmosauria, a revised dataset, including 44 taxa and 134 characters, 20 of which are new, was compiled. The results of a phylogenetic analysis places Nannopterygius spp. as sister to Arthropterygius spp. within Ophthalmosaurinae. Thus, the lineage of Nannopterygius was among several ophthalmosaurine lineages that crossed the Jurassic–Cretaceous boundary and, similarly to Arthropterygius, survived the Jurassic–Cretaceous transition at high latitudes.
Identifying factors that boost species discoveries of global reptiles
Authors: Guedes Jhonny J M , Feio Renato N , Meiri Shai , Moura Mario R
Published: March 2020

Most species remain unknown to science and might go extinct before we recognize their existence. Although specimens belonging to many of these unknown taxa may already be housed in scientific collections, they can remain ‘shelved’ for years bearing the wrong name or without a formal name. We investigate factors underlying variation in time lag between collection and description dates for 2356 reptile species described worldwide between 1992 and 2017. We modelled the time to description using biological and sociological variables in a time-to-event analysis. Time lag between collection and description varied from zero to 155 years (median = 5). More than one-quarter of species involved specimens ‘shelved’ for 12 years or more. The time lag was shorter when the collector of the holotype – specimen serving as the name-bearer of the species – was an author of the description, while taxonomic revisions uncovered species with longer time lags. Unknown species collected by non-taxonomists and ‘shelved’ in scientific collections remained incorrectly identified for a much longer time. Taxonomic revisions are crucial to reverse this trend and improve benefits of the collecting performed by non-taxonomists. Our findings reveal the kinds of preserved reptile specimens that most likely represent unknown species in scientific collections.
Efficacy of Fungicides Applied for Protectant and Curative Activity Against Myrtle Rust
Authors: Pathan Amin K. , Cuddy William , Kimberly Mark O. , Adusei-Fosu Kwasi , Rolando Carol A. , Park Robert F.
Published: March 2020

Myrtle rust, caused by the pathogen Austropuccinia psidii, affects species of the Myrtaceae, many of which are endemic to Australia and New Zealand. Originating from South America, A. psidii is now present in both countries, necessitating effective chemical control for disease management. Using an artificial inoculation protocol, the efficacy of eight fungicides (tebuconazole/trifloxystrobin, cyproconazole/azoxystrobin, fosetyl aluminum, triforine, triadimenol, oxycarboxin, copper, and tebuconazole) applied as curative or protectant treatments was tested on two native New Zealand species (Lophomyrtus × ralphii and Metrosideros excelsa). The impacts of rate (×2), frequency (single or double), and timing (pre- or postinfection) of fungicide application were investigated. Overall, the most effective fungicides tested across both species were those that included a demethylation inhibitor and strobilurin mix, notably tebuconazole/trifloxystrobin (Scorpio) and cyproconazole/azoxystrobin (Amistar Xtra). These fungicides significantly reduced infection of host plants relative to the water control. Timing of application significantly affected bioefficacy, with applications made 7 days before inoculation or 7 days after inoculation being generally the most effective. The rate of fungicide application was not significant for both host species, with few interaction terms showing overall significance. Key findings from this study will set the foundation for further fungicide bioefficacy research conducted to evaluate formulations and adjuvant mixtures, determine suitable application methods for enhanced retention and coverage, and derive optimum application time for effective protection of native and exotic Myrtaceae species in New Zealand.