bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Embedding planetesimals into white dwarf discs from large distances
Authors: Grishin Evgeni , Veras Dimitri
Published: August 2019

The discovery of the intact minor planet embedded in the debris disc orbiting SDSS J1228+1040 raises questions about the dynamical history of the system. Further, the recent passage of the potentially interstellar object 1I/’Oumuamua within the Solar system has re-ignited interest in minor body flux through exoplanetary systems. Here, we utilize the new analytical formalism from Grishin et al. (2019) to estimate the rate at which the gaseous components of typical white dwarf discs trap an exo-planetesimal. We compare the types of captured orbits which arise from planetesimals originating from the interstellar medium, exo-Kuiper belts, and exo-Oort clouds. We find that the rate of interstellar medium injection is negligible, whereas capture of both exo-Kuiper and exo-Oort cloud planetesimals is viable, but strongly size-dependent. For a gaseous disc which extends much beyond its Roche limit, capture is more probable than disruption at the Roche limit. We find that the capture probability linearly increases with the radial extent of the disc. Even in systems without minor planets, capture of smaller bodies will change the disc size distribution and potentially its temporal variability. Our formalism is general enough to be applied to future discoveries of embedded planetesimals in white dwarf debris discs.
DNA polymerase activity on synthetic N3′→P5′ phosphoramidate DNA templates
Authors: Lelyveld Victor S , O’Flaherty Derek K , Zhou Lijun , Izgu Enver Cagri , Szostak Jack W
Published: August 2019

Genetic polymers that could plausibly govern life in the universe might inhabit a broad swath of chemical space. A subset of these genetic systems can exchange information with RNA and DNA and could therefore form the basis for model protocells in the laboratory. N3′→P5′ phosphoramidate (NP) DNA is defined by a conservative linkage substitution and has shown promise as a protocellular genetic material, but much remains unknown about its functionality and fidelity due to limited enzymatic tools. Conveniently, we find widespread NP-DNA-dependent DNA polymerase activity among reverse transcriptases, an observation consistent with structural studies of the RNA-like conformation of NP-DNA duplexes. Here, we analyze the consequences of this unnatural template linkage on the kinetics and fidelity of DNA polymerization activity catalyzed by wild-type and variant reverse transcriptases. Template-associated deficits in kinetics and fidelity suggest that even highly conservative template modifications give rise to error-prone DNA polymerase activity. Enzymatic copying of NP-DNA sequences is nevertheless an important step toward the future study and engineering of this synthetic genetic polymer.
SEDIMENTARY RADIOACTIVITY IN AN UPPER PALEOLITHIC-MIDDLE PALEOLITHIC (MP-UP) TRANSITION SITE: INCREASING ESR TOOTH DATING ACCURACY AT GOLEMA PEšT, NORTH MACEDONIA
Authors: Blackwell Bonnie A B , Šalamanov-Korobar Ljiljana , Huang Clara L C , Zhuo Jialin L , Kitanovski Blagoja , Blickstein Joel I B , Florentin Jonathan A , Vasilevski Sasko
Published: August 2019

ESR (electron spin resonance) can date sites that span the whole Paleolithic, but requires accurate sedimentary dose rates, especially in caves where the internal and cosmic dose rates can approach 0 mGy/yr. This study examines the sedimentary radioactivity in the upper layers at Golema Pešt, North Macedonia. Reaching > 5.5 m deep, > 21 flatly lying, silty-sandy matrix-supported gravel layers with éboulis clasts fill the cave. In Sondage 2, Layers 0–5 contained many hearths and yielded thousands of bones and teeth, many from ungulates. In Layers 2-5a sat thousands of lithics and small tools, many made on tiny quartz crystals. Layers 2c-6 have Mousterian assemblages with denticulates, notched tools, Levallois cores and flakes. To measure the volumetrically averaged sedimentary dose rates for ungulate teeth dated by ESR from Sondage 2, 66 sediment samples were analyzed by NAA. Adding éboulis, calcined bone, and charcoal associated with the hearths lowered the sedimentary dose rates or left them unchanged. In Layer 2 at 198 cm below the cave datum, the Campanian Ignimbrite (CI) cryptotephra occurred, where it caused abnormally high sedimentary U, Th, and K concentrations and dose rates. Since the CI tephra lay 28–30 cm above AT77, a tooth dated from Layer 3, using time- and volumetrically averaging increased AT77’s sedimentary dose rate by 32%, and dropped its calculated age by 25%. Analyzing the sedimentary compositions at every 2 cm in Layers 0–2 yielded a highly detailed stratigraphy that reduced the uncertainty in the sedimentary dose rates and the ESR ages, but more detailed geochemical analyses must be completed within the lower layers in Sondage 2.
XVI American Literature: The Twentieth Century
Authors: Gifford James , Konkol Margaret , Clawson James M , Foltz Mary , Maruéjouls-Koch Sophie , Kidder Orion Ussner , Parker Lindsay
Published: August 2019

This chapter has eight sections: 1. Poetry; 2. Fiction 1900–1945; 3. Fiction since 1945; 4. Drama; 5. Comics; 6. African American Writing; 7. Native Writing; 8. Latino/a, Asian American, and General Ethnic Writing. Section 1 is by James Gifford and Margaret Konkol; section 2 is by James M. Clawson; section 3 is by Mary Foltz; section 4 is by Sophie Maruéjouls-Koch; section 5 is by Orion Ussner Kidder; section 6 will resume next year; section 7 is by James Gifford and Lindsay Parker; section 8 will resume next year.
Genetic Diversity and Vegetative Compatibility of Fusarium solani Species Complex of Strawberry in Spain
Authors: De la Lastra Eduardo , Villarino María , Astacio Juan Diego , Larena Inmaculada , De Cal Antonieta , Capote Nieves
Published: August 2019

Fusarium solani is a soilborne fungus that is a pathogen to >100 plant species. It is the causal agent of crown and root rot in strawberry. We collected 100 F. solani isolates from diseased plants and soils from two distinct geographic areas of strawberry production in Spain: plant nurseries located in the north-central region of the country and fruit production fields located in the southwestern region. The aims of this study were to accurately identify the isolates within the Fusarium solani species complex (FSSC) based on multilocus sequence typing, determine the genetic diversity and population structure of strawberry-associated FSSC based on phylogenetic analysis, and determine the vegetative compatibility among isolates in both strawberry production areas. Seven phylogenetic species, restricted to clade 3 of FSSC, were defined in the Spanish strawberry crops, showing a regional variation of species composition. Isolates from nurseries were composed of four phylogenetic species (i.e., FSSC 2, FSSC 5, FSSC 9, and an unknown FSSC species) that matched with five vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs). Isolates from fruit production fields included five phylogenetic species (i.e., FSSC 2, FSSC 3 + 4, FSSC 5, FSSC 6, and FSSC 11) distributed into 29 VCGs not correlated with phylogenetic groups. FSSC 5 and FSSC 2 were the most abundant species in nurseries and fruit production fields, respectively, and they were the only species present in both production areas. Of the 47 sequence-based haplotypes defined, no haplotypes were shared between nurseries and fruit production fields. Pathogenic isolates were present in all but FSSC 6 and FSSC 9 species, and FSSC 3 + 4 contained the higher percentage of pathogenic isolates. No relationship was observed between pathogenicity and the source of isolates (plant or soil). Generally, species present in fruit production fields showed higher genetic diversity than those present in nurseries. This work can contribute to understanding the diversity of this species complex in Spanish strawberry production areas, which will be useful for developing integrated disease management strategies.
Navel to Knees With Chlorhexidine Gluconate
Authors: Schmudde Yvonne , Olson-Sitki Kristi , Bond Jennifer , Chamberlain Jill
Published: August 2019

Urinary tract infections are the most common type of health care–associated infection, and greater than 75% of them are attributed to an indwelling urinary catheter. A catheter-associated urinary infection may lead to a longer hospital length of stay by as many as 4 days. A new patient care standard requiring twice-daily chlorhexidine cleansing from umbilicus to knees was implemented on all patients of the pilot unit with a urinary catheter. This same technique was used after a patient with a urinary catheter had an incontinent bowel movement. The 9-month average catheter-associated urinary infection rate decreased from 3.06/1000 urinary catheter days to 0.46/1000 urinary catheter days after implementation of the new standard. The use of chlorhexidine for routine urinary catheter care and after bowel movements from umbilicus to knees for patients with urinary catheters may significantly decrease catheter-associated urinary tract infections when compared with the standard of care using soap and water. Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence guidelines were used in reporting these data.
An Evaluation of Risk Factors for Extubation Failure in Surgical Patients in Intensive Care
Authors: Deivert Mary M. , Quatrara Beth , Kane Catherine , Sohn Min-Woong , Childress Melinda Bowles , Turrentine Florence E.
Published: August 2019

Background

Reintubations following extubation from mechanical ventilation are costly, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. The preparation for and timing of extubation from mechanical ventilation can reduce unplanned reintubations. Few studies have investigated reintubation in the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) population.

Objective

To identify risk factors that predict extubation failure in nontrauma surgical postoperative intensive care patients.

Methods

Retrospective analysis utilizing American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data and institutional clinical variables from July 1, 2013, to December 31, 2015, in a sample (N = 93) of surgical patients admitted postoperatively to a SICU with an endotracheal tube in place, requiring invasive mechanical ventilation. Logistic regression analysis was used to model extubation failure as a function of clinical variables in the 24 hours preceding extubation.

Results

Of 93 patients, 70 were successfully extubated, and 23 experienced failure. Increasing respiratory rate in the 24 hours preceding extubation significantly predicted failure (odds ratio, 1.086; 95% confidence interval, 1.006-1.172; P = .034).

Discussion

Elevated respiratory rates during the 24 hours preceding extubation are an underappreciated risk factor for extubation failure. This has direct implications for nurses who are assessing intensive care unit patients' readiness for extubation. Opportunity exists for nurses to better integrate respiratory rate data into extubation planning to improve unplanned reintubation rates in SICU patients.
MrgprX1 mediates neuronal excitability and itch through tetrodotoxin-resistant sodium channels
Authors: Tseng Pang-Yen , Zheng Qin , Li Zhe , Dong Xinzhong
Published: August 2019

In this study, we sought to elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying human Mas-related G protein–coupled receptor X1 (MrgprX1)-mediated itch sensation. We found that activation of MrgprX1 by BAM8-22 triggered robust action potential discharges in dorsal root ganglion neurons. This neuronal excitability is not mediated by transient receptor potential (TRP) cation channels, M-type potassium channels, or chloride channels. Instead, activation of MrgprX1 lowers the activation threshold of tetrodotoxin-resistant sodium channels and induces inward sodium currents. These MrgprX1-elicited action potential discharges can be blocked by Pertussis toxin and a Gβγ inhibitor—Gallein. Behavioral results showed that Nav1.9 knockout but not TRPA1 knockout significantly reduced BAM8-22 evoked scratching behavior. Collectively, these data suggest that activation of MrgprX1 triggers itch sensation by increasing the activity of tetrodotoxin-resistant voltage-gated sodium channels.
Postpartum depression screening in the first year: A cross-sectional provider analysis in Oregon
Authors: Docherty Angie , Najjar Rana , Combs Sheryl , Woolley Rachel , Stoyles Sydnee
Published: August 2019

Background and purpose:

Postpartum depression (PPD) has significant sequelae for mother and child. To aid diagnosis, PPD screening should continue throughout the postpartum year. In primary care, there may be a lack of consistency in how screening is applied. In Oregon, with a reported PPD rate of 18.2%, it is important to determine whether screening is reaching all women. The purpose of this study was to explore primary care provider screening practices in the postpartum year and determine if there are barriers to meeting PPD guidelines.

Methods:

A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted with primary care providers in Oregon. Data were sought on screening practices and timing, as well as potential barriers. To aid comparison, screening was compared against both the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (NAPNAP)/US Preventative Services Task Force guidelines. Data were analyzed using R statistical computing and Pearson chi-square tests.

Results:

Of the 55 respondents, 29% followed the AAP recommendations and screened at well-child visits; 64% followed the NAPNAP recommendations and screened at least once in the postpartum year; and 31% did not meet any screening guidelines. The most common screening barriers were limited knowledge and/or availability of referral services. Physicians were more likely to meet any recommended guidelines than nurse practitioners (NPs) (p = .023).

Implications for practice:

A notable number of women may not be receiving PPD screening. It is concerning that most of those not screening were NPs, given the focus of their practice on disease prevention and health management. Further research is warranted to confirm whether women are missing opportunities for early intervention and whether strategies can be established to standardize the approach in primary care.
Using rational-emotive language education to improve communication and social skills of adolescents with autism spectrum disorders in Nigeria
Authors: Nnamani Amuche , Akabogu Josephine , Otu Mkpoikanke Sunday , Uloh-Bethels Annah C. , Ukoha Evelyn , Iyekekpolor Olayinka M. , Omile Jacinta Chinwe , Obiezu Maureen Nnenna , Dike Anastasia E. , Ike Chioma Vivian , Otu Favour Mkpoikanke , Eseadi Chiedu
Published: August 2019

Background/Objective:

Studies show the need for improved communication and social skills of adolescents with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze the effect of using rational-emotive language education (RELE) to pursue this need for adolescents in Nigeria.

Methods:

The design of the study was a group randomized trial, with pretest, post-test, and follow-up. Sixty-eight adolescents with ASDs participated in the study. Autism Communication and Social Skills Scale for Adolescent (ACSSSA) was used for data collection. The method of data analysis in the study was repeated measures ANOVA procedure, with Partial eta squared (

JOURNAL/medi/04.03/00005792-201908020-00017/inline-graphic1/v/2023-09-14T035852Z/r/image-tiff

), adjusted R2, mean, standard deviation, and upper/lower limit.

Results:

The RELE program significantly improved communication and social skills of adolescents with ASDs exposed to the treatment intervention when compared with waitlist control group.

Conclusion:

Exposure to RELE significantly improved communication and social skills of adolescents with ASDs in this study. Therefore, we recommend that language educators, speech pathologists, language therapists, special educators and counsellors, and other professionals involved in the treatment and caring for ASDs patients be trained on the application of the RELE technique so as to enable them to employ the program in their professional practices.
High-intensity focused ultrasound combined with transcatheter arterial chemoembolization and radiotherapy for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yue-E. , Zong Jie , Ren Xiao-Cang , Lin Qiang
Published: August 2019

Introduction:

Primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies, only 10% to 20% of HCC patients are surgically resectable as most of the patients are diagnosed at advanced stages at presentation. The efficiencies of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE), high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), and three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) in patients with advanced HCC have been clinically confirmed. We here report a patient with HCC accompanied by venous tumor thrombus, who was treated with the combination of these 3 therapies. The patient survived for 16 months with good quality of life.

Patient concerns:

The patient was a 72-year-old male with a primary multicentric HCC accompanied by tumor thrombus in the right hepatic vein. The patient had the symptoms of abdominal distention and liver pain. He refused sorafenib treatment because of personal reason.

Diagnosis:

Primary multicentric HCC stage IIIB cT4N0M0, accompanied by tumor thrombus in the right hepatic vein; chronic viral hepatitis B; and hepatitis B virus-related decompensated liver cirrhosis.

Interventions:

TACE + HIFU + 3D-CRT.

Outcomes:

The patient had an overall survival of 16 months with good quality of life. Compared with monotherapy, the combined therapy significantly prolonged patient survival time with improved clinical benefits.

Conclusion:

The combination of TACE, HIFU, and 3D-CRT is safe and effective in the treatment of advanced HCC, which provides a possible comprehensive treatment strategy for advanced HCC.
Oral ibuprofen is superior to oral paracetamol for patent ductus arteriosus in very low and extremely low birth weight infants
Authors: Lu Jinmiao , Li Qin , Zhu Lin , Chen Chao , Li Zhiping
Published: August 2019

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) has been proposed as an alternative medication for closing hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (PDA). However, the clinical outcomes remain inconclusive in very low birth weight (VLBW) and extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants.

The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of oral paracetamol and ibuprofen for pharmacological closure of PDA in premature infants from a real-world study.

This retrospective study enrolled 255 preterm infants with birthweights of ≤1.5 kg, and echocardiographically confirmed significant PDA. Subjects were classified into 3 groups: Group I (standard-dose ibuprofen group) received 10 mg/kg oral ibuprofen followed by 5 mg/kg/day for 2 days. Group II (high-dose ibuprofen group) received 10 mg/kg/day oral ibuprofen for 3 days. Group III (paracetamol group) received 15 mg/kg/6 h oral paracetamol for 3 days.

On day 9 after medication start, PDA closure was achieved in 61 (71.7%) patients assigned to the high-dose ibuprofen group, (63.8%) in the standard-dose ibuprofen group, and 33 (37.9%) of those in the oral paracetamol group (P <.001). Oral standard-dose ibuprofen was more effective than oral paracetamol (P = .001). The ductus closed faster in the high-dose ibuprofen group than in the standard-dose group (median closure time 3.9 ± 1.0 versus 4.4 ± 1.0 days, P = .009). Total bilirubin significantly increased in the high-dose ibuprofen group (P = .02). No gastrointestinal, renal, or hematological adverse effects were reported. Subgroup analyses indicated paracetamol was minimally effective in ELBW infants (PDA closure 13%).

This study demonstrated that paracetamol may be a poor medical alternative for PDA management in VLBW and ELBW infants. High dosage ibuprofen was associated with a faster clinical improvement and higher rate of PDA closure.
Head and neck cancer in living donor liver transplant recipients
Authors: Lin Nan-Chin , Chen Yao-Li , Tsai Kuo-Yang
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence and risk factors of head and neck cancer in living donor liver transplant (LDLT) recipients.

This is a retrospective cohort study. A case-matched (1:4) comparison between recipients with and without developed head and neck cancer after LDLT was conducted. The differences between 2 groups were analyzed.

The incidence of head and neck malignancy in our cohort was 9 of 453 (1.98%). Their cumulative survival rate was below 60% at 24 months after the diagnosis of head and neck cancer, and no recipients lived for more than 2 years after being diagnosed with stage IV cancer. In the case–control study, univariate analysis revealed that alcohol consumption (odds ratio [OR] = 8.75, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.55–49.56) and smoking (OR = 6.71, 95% CI: 1.20– 37.44) were factors associated with the incidence of head and neck cancer after LDLT.

In the conclusion, recipients with head and neck cancer after LDLT may have a rather poor prognosis, especially those who are initially diagnosed with advanced-stage disease. Alcohol consumption and smoking may be the predisposing factors to head and neck cancer in LDLT recipients.
Regulation of calcific vascular and valvular disease by nuclear receptors
Authors: Sallam Tamer , Tintut Yin , Demer Linda L.
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

This review addresses recent developments in studies of lipid regulation of calcific disease of arteries and cardiac valves, including the role of nuclear receptors. The role of lipid-soluble signals and their receptors is timely given the recent evidence and concerns that lipid-lowering treatment may increase the rate of progression of coronary artery calcification, which has been long associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Understanding the mechanisms will be important for interpreting such clinical information.

Recent findings

New findings support regulation of calcific vascular and valvular disease by nuclear receptors, including the vitamin D receptor, glucocorticoid receptor, nutrient-sensing nuclear receptors (liver X receptor, farnesoid X receptor, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors), and sex hormone (estrogen and androgen) receptors. There were two major unexpected findings: first, vitamin D supplementation, which was previously believed to prevent or reduce vascular calcification, showed no cardiovascular benefit in large randomized, controlled trials. Second, both epidemiological studies and coronary intravascular ultrasound studies suggest that treatment with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors increases progression of coronary artery calcification, raising a question of whether there are mechanically stable and unstable forms of coronary calcification.

For clinical practice and research, these new findings offer new fundamental mechanisms for vascular calcification and provide new cautionary insights for therapeutic avenues.
National Analysis of Patients With External Ear Melanoma in the United States
Authors: Oliver Jeremie D. , Boczar Daniel , Sisti Andrea , Huayllani Maria T. , Restrepo David J. , Spaulding Aaron C. , Gabriel Emmanuel , Bagaria Sanjay , Rinker Brian D. , Forte Antonio J.
Published: August 2019

Background:

External ear melanoma (EEM) is a rare condition with controversies in the literature. We analyzed patients with EEM in the United States compared to other head and neck melanomas (OHNMs).

Methods:

The National Cancer Database (NCDB) was used to select patients with head and neck melanoma from January 1, 2004 to December 31, 2015. Mann–Whitney and χ
2 tests were used to estimate statistical significance, and multivariate logistic regression to identify independent associations adjusted for confounders.

Results:

A total of 137,233 patients met the study criteria. Among them, 16,991 (12.4%) had EEM and 120,242 (87.6%) had OHNM. For patients with EEM, the mean (standard deviation) age was 66.26 (15.798) years. Most of the patients with EEM were men (85.5%), insured by Medicare (52.4%), and treated in Academic/Research Programs (47.7%) or Comprehensive Community Cancer Programs (32.3%). Most of the EEM tumors had invasive behavior (68.0%) were Stages 0 (30.3%) or I (40.3%), and were without ulceration (76.9%). Mean time to receive any treatment was 14.1 days for EEM compared with 14.6 days for OHNM (P < 0.001). We noticed a greater proportion of EEM in men (14.8%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.72 [2.605–2.852]; P < 0.001) compared to women (6.22%; reference). EEM was an independent factor for tumor Stage I (14.47%; aOR 1.61 [1.101–1.224], P < 0.001) and invasive behavior (13.86%; aOR 1.268 [1.15–1.389]; P < 0.001) compared to OHNM.

Conclusion:

EEM was associated with higher odds of invasive behavior compared to OHNM. Furthermore, men were found to have a higher likelihood to develop EEM compared to women.
A Psychologic Assessment of the Parents of Patients With Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Kumar Kapila , Kumar Sumit , Mehrotra Divya , Gupta Saurabh , Khandpur Sukhanshi , Mishra Raj Kumar
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychologic burden in terms of depression, anxiety, and stress among the parents of children with congenital craniofacial deformity, nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) with early and late diagnosis and/or treatment. In this study, total 240 patients were enrolled, out of which 72 were parents (either mother/father) of CL/P children, below 10 years (group A: before adolescence), 70 were parents of CL/P children, above 10 years of age (group B: after adolescence), and 98 were parents of children with no CL/P or any other genetic disorder (group C). Depression, anxiety, and stress scale-21 was administered in all groups after obtaining the informed consent. Mean ranks of group B revealed a higher score for all the 3 psychologic domains. The CL/P was further divided into only cleft lip, only cleft palate, and both cleft lip and palate groups. A statistically significant difference was observed in group B for all the psychologic domains. Analysis of variance was applied between the groups and a P-value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Analysis revealed severe to extremely severe depressed state of mind and moderate to severe levels of stress in maximum parents (above 20%) of group B. However, approximately 50% parents of group B showed extremely severe anxiety. Therefore, psychologic assessment helps in providing a psychiatric or psychologic counseling and treatment to the parents of CL/P children.
Causal SNP regulating FAM13B expression identified for the Chr. 5q31 atrial fibrillation susceptibility locus
Authors: Tchou Gregory , Gore-Panter Shamone , Hsu Jeffrey , Liu Fang , Liu Nana , Moravec Christine S. , Barnard John , Van Wagoner David R. , Chung Mina K. , Smith Jonathan D.
Published: August 2019

Rationale

Our prior RNA sequencing study found that FAM13B gene expression in human left atrial appendages was strongly associated with an atrial fibrillation (AF) susceptibility-associated variant on chr. 5q31.

Objective

To identify the common genetic variant responsible for regulating FAM13B expression and the effect of FAM13B expression on cardiomyocyte gene expression in order to gain insight into the functional mechanism of the chr. 5q31 AF susceptibility locus.

Methods and Results

By taking advantage of a smaller linkage disequilibrium block in African descent subjects and available chromatin conformation data, we identified the common single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs17171731 as a candidate genetic variant controlling FAM13B gene expression in the left atrium. Functional analysis demonstrated that the AF risk allele of rs17171731 had less enhancer activity than the protective allele. Gel mobility shift studies determined that the risk allele bound to an additional protein that may function as a transcriptional repressor. Knockdown of FAM13B expression in stem cell-derived human cardiomyocytes (iCM) altered the expression of >1000 genes and modified the sodium current, consistent with increased susceptibility to atrial fibrillation. Transfection of GFP tagged FAM13B into iCMs demonstrated expression on the plasma membrane and at the Z-disk.

Conclusions

The chr. 5q31 AF risk variant was identified as rs17171731, with the risk allele having less enhancer activity, leading to decreased expression of FAM13B, which resides on the plasma membrane and the Z-disk, and appears to play a role in the regulation of cardiomyocyte gene expression and the late sodium current.
Stimulus Onset Hub: An open-source, low latency, and opto-isolated trigger box for neuroscientific research replicability and beyond
Authors: Davis Charles E. , Martin Jacob G. , Thorpe Simon J.
Published: August 2019

There is currently a replication crisis in many fields of neuroscience and psychology, with some estimates claiming up to 64% of research in psychological science is not reproducible. Three common culprits which have been suspected to cause the failure to replicate such studies are small sample sizes, “hypothesizing after the results are known,” and “p-hacking.” Here, we introduce accurate stimulus timing as an additional possibility. Accurate stimulus onset timing is critical to almost all psychophysical research. Auditory, visual, or manual response time stimulus onsets are typically sent through wires to various machines that record data such as: eye gaze positions, electroencephalography, stereo electroencephalography, and electrocorticography. These stimulus onsets are collated and analyzed according to experimental condition. If there is variability in the temporal accuracy of the delivery of these onsets to external systems, the quality of the resulting data and scientific analyses will degrade. Here, we describe an approximately $200 Arduino based system and associated open-source codebase which achieved a 5.34 microsecond delay from the inputs to the outputs while electrically opto-isolating the connected external systems. Using an oscilloscope, the device is configurable for different environmental conditions particular to each laboratory (e.g. light sensor type, screen type, speaker type, stimulus type, temperature, etc). This low-cost open-source project delivered electrically isolated stimulus onset Transistor-Transistor Logic triggers with a median precision of 5.34 microseconds and was successfully tested with 7 different external systems that record eye and neurological data.
Genome-wide analysis of Corsican population reveals a close affinity with Northern and Central Italy
Authors: Tamm Erika , Cristofaro Julie Di , Mazières Stéphane , Pennarun Erwan , Kushniarevich Alena , Raveane Alessandro , Semino Ornella , Chiaroni Jacques , Pereira Luisa , Metspalu Mait , Montinaro Francesco
Published: August 2019

Despite being the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean basin, the genetic variation of Corsica has not been explored as exhaustively as Sardinia, which is situated only 11 km South. However, it is likely that the populations of the two islands shared, at least in part, similar demographic histories. Moreover, the relative small size of the Corsica may have caused genetic isolation, which, in turn, might be relevant under medical and translational perspectives. Here we analysed genome wide data of 16 Corsicans, and integrated with newly (33 individuals) and previously generated samples from West Eurasia and North Africa. Allele frequency, haplotype-based, and ancient genome analyses suggest that although Sardinia and Corsica may have witnessed similar isolation and migration events, the latter is genetically closer to populations from continental Europe, such as Northern and Central Italians.
Identification and characterization of constrained non-exonic bases lacking predictive epigenomic and transcription factor binding annotations
Authors: Grujic Olivera , Phung Tanya N. , Kwon Soo Bin , Arneson Adriana , Lee Yuju , Lohmueller Kirk E. , Ernst Jason
Published: August 2019

Annotations of evolutionarily constraint provide important information for variant prioritization. Genome-wide maps of epigenomic marks and transcription factor binding provide complementary information for interpreting a subset of such prioritized variants. Here we developed the Constrained Non-Exonic Predictor (CNEP) to quantify the evidence of each base in the human genome being in a constrained non-exonic element from over 60,000 epigenomic and transcription factor binding features. We find that the CNEP score outperforms baseline and related existing scores at predicting constrained non-exonic bases from such data. However, a subset of such bases are still not well predicted by CNEP. We developed a complementary Conservation Signature Score by CNEP (CSS-CNEP) using conservation state and constrained element annotations that is predictive of those bases. Using human genetic variation, regulatory sequence motifs, mouse epigenomic data, and retrospectively considered additional human data we further characterize the nature of constrained non-exonic bases with low CNEP scores.
The role of government and the international competitiveness of SMEs
Authors: Appiah Kenneth , Osei Collins , Selassie Habte , Osabutey Ellis
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The nature of international markets and the challenges with respect to the competitiveness of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) makes it imperative to examine government support. This study aims to assess the role and effectiveness of government and the export promotion agencies in supporting exports by non-traditional horticultural SMEs in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a qualitative research design, which involved semi-structured interviews with senior managers of six export facilitating institutions to gain an understanding of the services offered to SMEs with respect to exports of non-traditional horticultural products.

Findings

The findings reveal inadequate cost-efficient sources of non-traditional horticultural export financing for SMEs. This is a hindrance to the international competitiveness of exporting SMEs in developing countries such as Ghana. In addition, effective and coordinated support from export promotion agencies was found to be critical.

Originality/value

The study highlights the importance of government’s role in policymaking and implementation of export-led programmes for horticultural exporting firms in Ghana. Despite their strategic importance, this area of research has not attracted the attention of researchers, with little or no information on the horticultural international competitiveness of non-traditional horticultural products.
Landscape‐dependent time versus energy optimizations in pelicans migrating through a large ecological barrier
Authors: Efrat Ron , Hatzofe Ohad , Nathan Ran
Published: August 2019

During migration, birds are often forced to cross ecological barriers, facing challenges due to scarcity of resources and suitable habitats. While crossing such barriers, birds are expected to adjust their behaviour to reduce time, energy expenditure and associated risks.

We studied the crossing of the Sahara Desert by the Great White Pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus), a large wetland‐specialist. We focused on decisions made by migrating pelicans along different parts of the southbound autumn migration, their response to local environmental conditions and the implications for time and energy optimizations. We compared the observed pelicans' migration routes with simulated ‘direct‐pass’ (shortest, mostly across the desert) and ‘corridor‐pass’ (along the Nile River) routes, and used GPS, body acceleration and atmospheric modelling to compare flight behaviour along the Nile River versus the desert.

The observed route was significantly shorter and faster than the simulated corridor‐pass route and not significantly different from the simulated direct‐pass one. Daily flights over the desert were longer than along the Nile River, with flying time extending to late hours of the day despite unfavourable atmospheric conditions for soaring–gliding flight. Moreover, the pelicans' behavioural response to atmospheric conditions changed according to the landscape over which they flew. Overall, the pelicans showed stronger behavioural adjustments to atmospheric conditions over the desert than along the Nile River.

Our findings suggest that migrating pelicans primarily acted as time minimizers while crossing the Sahara Desert, whereas energetic optimization was only considered when it did not substantially compromise time optimization. The pelicans took the almost shortest possible route, only following the Nile River along its south‐oriented parts, and frequently staged overnight in the desert far from water, despite being large, wet‐habitat specialists. Correspondingly, their behavioural response to atmospheric conditions changed according to the landscape over which they were flying, switching between time (over the desert) and energy (over the Nile River) optimization strategies. Our results suggest that the interaction between landscape and atmospheric conditions depict a flexible, yet primarily time‐dominated, migration optimization strategy.

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How to Handle the Fiscal Crisis in Greece: Empirical Evidence Based on a Survey of Economic Experts
Authors: Mosler Martin , Potrafke Niklas , Reischmann Markus
Published: August 2019

We asked economic experts polled by the CESifo World Economic Survey how to handle the fiscal crisis in Greece in the year 2015. The sample includes about 850 experts from 110 countries. We find systematic differences in experts’ recommendations. Our results suggest that policy advice is related to an expert's personal and country‐level attributes. Country‐level characteristics, especially credit default swaps as a measure of fiscal stability, predict views on whether Greece should exit the eurozone. An expert's educational background, age and professional affiliation predict opinions on the credit programmes of the International Monetary Fund. We propose that policymakers who seek balanced policy advice should consult experts from different countries and personal backgrounds.
Forensic Significance of Gunshot Impact Marks on Inanimate Objects: The Need for Translational Research
Authors: Nordin Farah Ad‐din , Bominathan Uma Rashmika , Abdullah Ahmad Fahmi Lim , Chang Kah Haw
Published: August 2019

Wherever an impact mark is found, either on the surface or on the recovered projectile, it is important for forensic investigators to extract useful information in solving shooting‐related cases. This article reviews a collection of works on examination of impact marks upon striking of projectiles on inanimate objects, emphasizing on the retrievable information from a shooting scene and their forensic significance in shooting event reconstruction. Literature suggested that impact marks on target surfaces and the degree of deformation on striking projectiles vary according to different combinations of ammunition and surface materials. It was noted that conditions in real‐case scenarios further differed unpredictably in comparison with controlled studies, where forensic investigation should be treated as case‐specific basis. Furthermore, the way forensic science is researched and applied operationally has to be reconsidered to reduce the gap via translational approach for more effective use of forensic evidence.
Mandibular advancement splints for obstructive sleep apnoea – a cautionary tale
Authors: Spencer S , Goss A , Cheng A , Stein B , Sambrook P
Published: August 2019

Background

Obstructive sleep apnoea is a serious medical condition of increasing prevalence that has a multitude of treatment modalities. The aim of this study was to review the results of patients treated with mandibular advancement splints in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Unit of South Australia to inform ongoing practice in this area.

Methods

The casenotes of patients who received a splint for obstructive sleep apnoea between January 2008 and June 2014 were audited. Data collection included referral and demographic details, sleep study results, splint type and follow‐up details.

Results

Three hundred and four patients were identified as having been provided a mandibular advancement splint for obstructive sleep apnoea, of which 82 had diagnostic and splint‐in‐situ sleep studies available for comparison. It was observed that 27 had clinically significant objective improvement, 40 had no clinically significant change and 15 had clinically worse OSA following MAS therapy. Mean reductions in Apnoea‐Hypopnoea Index and Respiratory Disturbance Index were eight events (27%) and 13 events (33%) per hour respectively with treatment.

Conclusions

Based on this study, mandibular advancement splint therapy is a viable treatment for a subset of patients with obstructive sleep apnoea. Protocol driven, multi‐disciplinary care with auditing of results is recommended.
Big is efficient: Evidence from agricultural cooperatives in Ethiopia
Authors: Gezahegn Tafesse W. , Van Passel Steven , Berhanu Tekeste , D'Haese Marijke , Maertens Miet
Published: August 2019

In Ethiopia, there is a renewed interest in agricultural cooperatives as an institutional tool to improve the welfare of smallholder farmers. One of the pathways through which cooperatives benefit their members is scale economies. However, the establishment of cooperatives in Ethiopia seems to pay little attention to the size of the organizations. This article aims at investigating the effect of size on cost efficiency of agricultural cooperatives. More specifically, the purpose is to examine whether a single cooperative can serve a given number of farmers at a lower cost than two or more smaller cooperatives could. We employ the concept of cost subadditivity to compare the cost efficiency of large versus small cooperatives, and by extension unilateral actions. We estimate a flexible production technology using cross‐sectional cooperative‐level data. Findings show that costs would drop by 78% to 181% if farmers join hands in relatively large rather than small cooperatives.
Obesity and metabolic syndrome associated with systemic inflammation and the impact on the male reproductive system
Authors: Leisegang Kristian , Henkel Ralf , Agarwal Ashok
Published: August 2019

Obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are global epidemics, driven by an obesogenic environment. This is mediated by complex underlying pathophysiology, in which chronic inflammation is an important aetiological and mechanistic phenomenon. A shift towards a subclinical TH1–lymphocyte mediated innate and chronic inflammatory response is well defined in obesity and MetS, demonstrated in multiple systems including visceral adiposity, brain (hypothalamus), muscles, vasculature, liver, pancreas, testes, epididymis, prostate and seminal fluid. Inflammatory cytokines disrupt the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐testes axis and steroidogenesis cascades (hypogonadotropic hypogonadism), spermatogenesis (poor semen parameters, including DNA fragmentation and detrimental epigenetic modification) and results in subclinical prostatitis and prostate hyperplasia. This review aims to highlight the role of chronic inflammation in obesity and MetS, cytokines in male reproductive physiology and pathophysiology, the impact on steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis, prostate pathology and erectile dysfunction. Currently, it is recommended that clinical assessment of male infertility and reproductive dysfunction in obese and MetS patients includes inflammation assessment (highly sensitive C‐reactive protein), and appropriate advice and therapeutic options are incorporated in the management options. However, the mechanisms and therapeutic options remain poorly understood and require significant interdisciplinary research to identify potential novel therapeutic strategies.
Incidences of obstetric outcomes and sample size calculations: A Danish national registry study based on all deliveries from 2008 to 2015
Authors: Hoegh Stinne , Thellesen Line , Christensen Karl Bang , Bergholt Thomas , Hedegaard Morten , Sorensen Jette Led
Published: August 2019

Introduction

In high‐income countries the majority of pregnancies have a good outcome, and many adverse obstetric outcomes rarely occur. This makes demonstrating clinically relevant and statistically significant effects of new interventions a challenge. The objective of the study was to report incidences of important obstetric outcomes and to calculate sample sizes for tentative studies.

Material and methods

The study was a registry‐based study. Data were retrieved from the Danish Medical Birth Registry and included all deliveries in Denmark from 2008 to 2015. The total population included 465 919 deliveries. The study population comprised intended vaginal deliveries with a single fetus in cephalic presentation at term (n = 381 567). Incidences were reported for 20 outcomes considering the relevance for the patients and the severity of the outcomes. We calculated the sample sizes required in tentative obstetric studies to detect risk reductions of 25 and 50%, for tests at the 5% level, using a power of 80 and 90%. For the randomized controlled trials we calculated the sample size required for comparing two proportions with equal‐sized groups. For the cohort study we calculated the sample size also required for two proportions but with unequal sized groups. Outcome measures for sample size calculation were neonatal mortality, Apgar score <7 at 5 minutes and emergency cesarean section.

Results

The incidence of neonatal mortality, Apgar score <7 at 5 minutes and emergency cesarean section was 0.05, 0.58 and 10.5%, respectively. Using neonatal mortality as the outcome in a tentative randomized controlled trial with an expected risk reduction of 50% and power of 80%, our calculation showed a sample size of 195 036 deliveries. Using Apgar score <7 at 5 minutes or emergency cesarean section as the outcome, 16 254 and 818 deliveries, respectively, were required. In tentative cohort studies, the required sample sizes were larger due to the unequal proportion of exposed/non‐exposed women.

Conclusions

Most adverse obstetric outcomes occur rarely; thus, very large sample sizes are required to achieve adequate statistical power in randomized controlled trials. Multicenter studies, international collaborations or alternative study designs to randomized controlled trials could be considered.