bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lon recognition of the replication initiator DnaA requires a bipartite degron
Authors: Liu Jing , Zeinert Rilee , Francis Laura , Chien Peter
Published: October 2018

DnaA initiates chromosome replication in bacteria. In Caulobacter crescentus, the Lon protease degrades DnaA to coordinate replication with nutrient availability and to halt the cell cycle during acute stress. Here, we characterize the mechanism of DnaA recognition by Lon. We find that the folded state of DnaA appears crucial for its degradation, in contrast to the well‐known role of Lon in degrading misfolded proteins. We fail to identify a single degradation motif (degron) sufficient for DnaA degradation, rather we show that both the ATPase domain and a species‐specific N‐terminal motif are important for productive Lon degradation of full‐length DnaA. Mutations in either of these determinants disrupt DnaA degradation in vitro and in vivo. However, analysis of truncation products reveals that appending other extensions to the ATPase domain is sufficient to trigger degradation, suggesting plasticity in Lon recognition. Our final working model is that Lon engages DnaA through at least two elements, one of which anchors DnaA to Lon and the other acting as an initiation site for degradation.
Preservation of the colo‐anal reflex in colonic transection and post‐operative Hirschsprung's disease: Potential extrinsic neural pathway
Authors: Sintusek Palittiya , Rybak Anna , Mutalib Mohamed , Thapar Nikhil , Borrelli Osvaldo , Lindley Keith J.
Published: October 2018

Background

The colo‐anal reflex is a distinct reflex whereby the internal anal sphincter (IAS) relaxes in association with colonic high amplitude propagating contractions (HAPCs) in contrast to the recto‐anal inhibitory reflex (RAIR), which is characterized by IAS relaxation upon rectal distension. The RAIR is mediated by the myenteric plexus and therefore absent in Hirschsprung disease. We retrospectively assessed the presence and the characteristics of the colo‐anal reflex in children in whom large bowel continuity had been surgically disrupted to assess the role of the extrinsic nervous system in the reflex.

Methods

High‐resolution (HR) colonic manometry and HR‐anorectal manometry were used to evaluate both colonic and anal motor activity in ten children with treatment‐unresponsive slow transit constipation (STC), who had previously undergone left‐sided colostomy formation with consequent disruption of the bowel continuity, and in two children with Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR), who had previously undergone distal colon resection followed by Duhamel pull‐through. Eight children with STC, normal colonic motor activity, and preserved large bowel continuity served as a control group. The presence and characteristics of colo‐anal reflex were analyzed.

Key Results

In the study group, all patients showed the presence of both normal HAPCs and the presence of the colo‐anal reflex. In two cases of HSCR, RAIR was absent; however, both patients demonstrated a colo‐anal reflex.

Conclusions

In children with disrupted continuity of the colon and/or abnormal anal reflex, the colo‐anal reflex is still preserved suggesting that it is mediated by a different pathway from the RAIR, possibly an extrinsic neural pathway.
Phytochemicals as mediators for host range expansion of a native invasive forest insect herbivore
Authors: Erbilgin Nadir
Published: October 2018

Mountain pine beetle (MPB) has recently invaded jack pine forests in western Canada. This invasion signifies a climate change‐induced range expansion by a native insect. The mechanism underlying this invasion is unknown, but likely involves phytochemicals that play critical roles in MPB biology. Thus far, studies have investigated the compatibility of jack pine chemistry with beetles and their microbial symbionts. I have identified three phytochemical mechanisms that have likely facilitated the host range expansion of MPB. First, jack pine chemistry is overall similar to that of the historical hosts of MPB. In particular, jack pine chemistry is compatible with beetle pheromone production, aggregation on host trees and larval development. Furthermore, the compatibility of jack pine chemistry maintains beneficial interactions between MPB and its microbial symbionts. Second, compared with historical hosts, the novel host not only has lower concentrations of toxic and repellent defense chemicals, but also contains large concentrations of chemicals promoting host colonization by MPB. These patterns are especially pronounced when comparing novel hosts with well‐defended historical hosts. Finally, before MPBs arrived in jack pine forests, they invaded a zone of hybrids of novel and historical hosts that likely improved beetle success on jack pine, as hybrids show chemical characteristics of both hosts. In conclusion, the phytochemistry of jack pine has likely facilitated the biological invasion of this novel host by MPB.
Verticillium dahliae transcription factors Som1 and Vta3 control microsclerotia formation and sequential steps of plant root penetration and colonisation to induce disease
Authors: Bui Tri‐Thuc , Harting Rebekka , Braus‐Stromeyer Susanna A. , Tran Van‐Tuan , Leonard Miriam , Höfer Annalena , Abelmann Anja , Bakti Fruzsina , Valerius Oliver , Schlüter Rabea , Stanley Claire E. , Ambrósio Alinne , Braus Gerhard H.
Published: October 2018

Verticillium dahliae nuclear transcription factors Som1 and Vta3 can rescue adhesion in a FLO8‐deficient Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain. Som1 and Vta3 induce the expression of the yeast FLO1 and FLO11 genes encoding adhesins. Som1 and Vta3 are sequentially required for root penetration and colonisation of the plant host by V. dahliae.

The SOM1 and VTA3 genes were deleted and their functions in fungus‐induced plant pathogenesis were studied using genetic, cell biology, proteomic and plant pathogenicity experiments.

Som1 supports fungal adhesion and root penetration and is required earlier than Vta3 in the colonisation of plant root surfaces and tomato plant infection. Som1 controls septa positioning and the size of vacuoles, and subsequently hyphal development including aerial hyphae formation and normal hyphal branching. Som1 and Vta3 control conidiation, microsclerotia formation, and antagonise in oxidative stress responses. The molecular function of Som1 is conserved between the plant pathogen V. dahliae and the opportunistic human pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus.

Som1 controls genes for initial steps of plant root penetration, adhesion, oxidative stress response and VTA3 expression to allow subsequent root colonisation. Both Som1 and Vta3 regulate developmental genetic networks required for conidiation, microsclerotia formation and pathogenicity of V. dahliae.
Cis–trans controls and regulatory novelty accompanying allopolyploidization
Authors: Hu Guanjing , Wendel Jonathan F.
Published: October 2018

Allopolyploidy is a prevalent process in plants, having important physiological, ecological and evolutionary consequences. Transcriptomic responses to genomic merger and doubling have been demonstrated in many allopolyploid systems, encompassing a diversity of phenomena including homoeolog expression bias, genome dominance, expression‐level dominance and revamping of co‐expression networks. Notwithstanding the foregoing, there remains a need to develop a conceptual framework that will stimulate a deeper understanding of these diverse phenomena and their mechanistic interrelationships. Here we introduce considerations relevant to this framework with a focus on cis–trans interactions among duplicated genes and alleles in hybrids and allopolyploids. By extending classic allele‐specific expression analysis to the allopolyploid level, we distinguish the distinct effects of progenitor regulatory interactions from the novel intergenomic interactions that arise from genome merger and allopolyploidization. This perspective informs experiments designed to reveal the molecular genetic basis of gene regulatory control, and will facilitate the disentangling of genetic from epigenetic and higher‐order effects that impact gene expression. Finally, we suggest that the extended cis–trans model may help conceptually unify several presently disparate hallmarks of allopolyploid evolution, including genome‐wide expression dominance and biased fractionation, and lead to a new level of understanding of phenotypic novelty accompanying polyploidy.
Boron: the essential element for vascular plants that never was
Authors: Lewis David H.
Published: October 2018

Although a requirement for boron is a well‐established feature of vascular plants, its designation, for almost a century, as essential is challenged and, instead, the proposal is made that it has never been so as conventionally defined. This is because an alternative interpretation of published evidence negates its compliance with one of the criteria for essentiality, that its effects are direct. The alternative, here postulated, is that boron is, and always has been, potentially toxic, a feature which, for normal growth, development and reproduction, needed to be nullified. This was enabled by exploitation of boron's ability to be chemically bound to compounds with cis‐hydroxyl groups. Although particular cell wall carbohydrate polymers, glycoproteins and membrane glycolipids are among candidates for this role, it is here proposed that soluble phenolic metabolites of, or related to, the components of the pathway of lignin biosynthesis, themselves potentially toxic, are primarily used by vascular plants. When metabolic circumstances allow these phenolics to accumulate endogenously in the cytoplasm, their own inherent toxicity is also alleviated, partially at least, by formation of complexes with boron. This chemical reciprocity, enhanced by physical sequestration of the complexes in vacuoles and/or apoplast, thus achieves, in a flexible but indirect manner, a minimization of the inherent toxicities of both boron and relevant phenolics. In these ways, the multifarious outcomes of impairments, natural or experimental, to this interplay are responsible for the lack of consensus to explain the diverse effects observed in the many searches for boron's primary metabolic role, here considered to be nonexistent. In particular, since a toxic element cannot have ‘deficiency symptoms’, those previously so‐called are postulated to be largely due to the expressed toxicity of phenylpropanoids. A principal requirement for the otherwise toxic boron is to nullify, by means of its indirect chemical and physical sequestration, such expression. In these ways, it is therefore neither an essential nor a beneficial element as currently strictly defined.
Eyes on the future – evidence for trade‐offs between growth, storage and defense in Norway spruce
Authors: Huang Jianbei , Hammerbacher Almuth , Weinhold Alexander , Reichelt Michael , Gleixner Gerd , Behrendt Thomas , van Dam Nicole M. , Sala Anna , Gershenzon Jonathan , Trumbore Susan , Hartmann Henrik
Published: October 2018

Carbon (C) allocation plays a central role in tree responses to environmental changes. Yet, fundamental questions remain about how trees allocate C to different sinks, for example, growth vs storage and defense.

In order to elucidate allocation priorities, we manipulated the whole‐tree C balance by modifying atmospheric CO2 concentrations [CO2] to create two distinct gradients of declining C availability, and compared how C was allocated among fluxes (respiration and volatile monoterpenes) and biomass C pools (total biomass, nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) and secondary metabolites (SM)) in well‐watered Norway spruce (Picea abies) saplings. Continuous isotope labelling was used to trace the fate of newly‐assimilated C.

Reducing [CO2] to 120 ppm caused an aboveground C compensation point (i.e. net C balance was zero) and resulted in decreases in growth and respiration. By contrast, soluble sugars and SM remained relatively constant in aboveground young organs and were partially maintained with a constant allocation of newly‐assimilated C, even at expense of root death from C exhaustion.

We conclude that spruce trees have a conservative allocation strategy under source limitation: growth and respiration can be downregulated to maintain ‘operational’ concentrations of NSC while investing newly‐assimilated C into future survival by producing SM.
Multiple osteolytic lesions of the jaws in a patient with neurofibromatosis type I. A case report and focused literature review
Authors: Tosios K.I. , Delli K. , Makris N.
Published: October 2018

We describe the case of a patient diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) where unusually extensive and multiple osteolytic lesions of both jaws consistent with central giant cell granulomas (CGCG) caused massive bone destruction and left her almost “jawless.” The patient was a 58‐year‐old woman who at the age of 15 years was diagnosed with NF1 and at the age of 53 years underwent radiation therapy for nasal obstruction due to CGCG. The most significant intraoral findings were brown tumors on the maxillary gingiva; bilateral expansion of the hard palate; and a yellow mass on the floor of the mouth. Head and neck examination revealed mandibular asymmetry and features consistent with NF1. Panoramic radiograph and cone beam computed tomography disclosed multiple radiolucent masses. Although the occurrence of multiple CGCG of the jaws in patients with NF1 is rare, early diagnosis, regular follow‐up and proper therapeutic intervention may limit the extent of bone destruction.
Differential effects of varied potassium and magnesium nutrition on production and partitioning of photoassimilates in potato plants
Authors: Koch Mirjam , Busse Matthies , Naumann Marcel , Jákli Bálint , Smit Inga , Cakmak Ismail , Hermans Christian , Pawelzik Elke
Published: October 2018

Potassium (K) and magnesium (Mg) are essential macronutrients for plants; they play crucial roles for photoassimilate production and transport. The knowledge on both individual and interactive effects of K and Mg nutrition in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is limited. We aimed to determine whether K or Mg deficiencies impair photoassimilate production and transport, and consequently the development of tubers which are strong sink organs for photoassimilates. Potato plants were grown in pots using sand culture under various K and Mg supplies. Biomass production, CO2 net assimilation, leaf sugar concentrations and transcript levels of H+/sucrose symporters in leaves were measured. Both K and Mg deficiencies reduced CO2 net assimilation and biomass production, with stronger reductions during K deficiency. Sugars accumulated in K‐ and, more importantly, in Mg‐deficient leaves. Low K or Mg supplies resulted in increased transcript levels of H+/sucrose symporters, but the increase was less pronounced during Mg deficiency. The lower increase of transcript levels of H+/sucrose symporters under Mg deficiency was probably caused by an impaired sucrose transport already at an earlier step, namely the efflux of sucrose from mesophyll cells into the apoplast. Thus, we assume that K and Mg deficiencies caused sugar accumulation in separated cell compartments of source leaves leading to a different impact on the gene expression of sucrose transport systems. Tuber sugar and starch concentrations, however, remained unaffected under the various treatments. Nevertheless, the total amount of tuber sugar and starch per plant decreased significantly during K and Mg deficiencies.
Extreme Betting
Authors: González de Prado Salas Javier
Published: October 2018

It is often thought that bets on the truth of known propositions become irrational if the losing costs are high enough. This is typically taken to count against the view that knowledge involves assigning credence 1. I argue that the irrationality of such extreme bets can be explained by considering the interactions between the agent and the bookmaker. More specifically, the agent’s epistemic perspective is altered by the fact that the bookmaker proposes that unusual type of bet. Among other things, being willing to offer a bet with unnecessarily harmful losing costs is likely to undermine the baseline level of trustworthiness required for it to be rational to engage in betting exchanges. This sort of explanation does not require granting either that we assign credence lower than 1 to known propositions or that knowledge is sensitive to practical stakes. Moreover, I show that, in our ordinary lives, we frequently perform actions that we know would be disastrous if certain conditions did not obtain. This behaviour can be seen as a form of implicit extreme betting and, nevertheless, it is often rational.
A consensus opinion amongst stakeholders as to benefits of obstructive sleep apnoea treatment for cardiovascular health
Authors: Landry Shane A. , Banks Siobhan , Cistulli Peter A. , Hamilton Garun S. , Héraud Laure , Kairaitis Kristina , Lubke Steven , Mukherjee Sutapa , Roebuck Teanau , Soda Joesph , Umbers Darren , Rajaratnam Shantha M. W. , Mansfield Darren
Published: October 2018

Background and objective

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a prevalent sleep disorder associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Whether treatment of OSA improves cardiovascular risk remains controversial. Our aim was to determine a consensus opinion of key sleep medicine stakeholder groups as to the cardiovascular benefits of treating moderate–severe OSA.

Methods

A multidisciplinary panel was assembled from representatives from the Australasian Sleep Association, Sleep Health Foundation, Australasian Sleep Technologists Association, the Sleep Health Foundation Business Council and the Sleep Disorders Australia patient support group. Three statements reflecting areas of controversy related to cardiovascular benefits of OSA treatment were created. A modified RAND/UCLA appropriateness methodology was applied determining the panel's level of consensus and agreement with each statement.

Results

Voting results indicated the panel: (1) remained unsure whether moderate–severe OSA treatment improves rates of cardiovascular events/death, (2) agreed that moderate–severe OSA treatment improves blood pressure in patients with hypertension and (3) mostly agreed that moderate–severe OSA treatment improves left ventricular function in patients with heart failure. Consensus of opinion was achieved for statements (1) and (2), but was narrowly missed for statement (3).

Conclusion

The panel believed that findings from large‐scale randomized trials indicate that treatment of moderate–severe OSA has not been established to improve cardiovascular event or morbidity/mortality rates. Strong evidence supports the ability of treatment to reduce blood pressure. Whilst many panel members believed that treatment improves left ventricular function, some were uncertain of the clinical significance of this secondary endpoint measure derived from lesser quality evidence.
Validation of Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment Using Epidemiological Data from Outbreaks of Waterborne Gastrointestinal Disease
Authors: Burch Tucker
Published: October 2018

The assumptions underlying quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) are simple and biologically plausible, but QMRA predictions have never been validated for many pathogens. The objective of this study was to validate QMRA predictions against epidemiological measurements from outbreaks of waterborne gastrointestinal disease. I screened 2,000 papers and identified 12 outbreaks with the necessary data: disease rates measured using epidemiological methods and pathogen concentrations measured in the source water. Eight of the 12 outbreaks were caused by Cryptosporidium, three by Giardia, and one by norovirus. Disease rates varied from 5.5 × 10−6 to 1.1 × 10−2 cases/person‐day, and reported pathogen concentrations varied from 1.2 × 10−4 to 8.6 × 102 per liter. I used these concentrations with single‐hit dose–response models for all three pathogens to conduct QMRA, producing both point and interval predictions of disease rates for each outbreak. Comparison of QMRA predictions to epidemiological measurements showed good agreement; interval predictions contained measured disease rates for 9 of 12 outbreaks, with point predictions off by factors of 1.0–120 (median = 4.8). Furthermore, 11 outbreaks occurred at mean doses of less than 1 pathogen per exposure. Measured disease rates for these outbreaks were clearly consistent with a single‐hit model, and not with a “two‐hit” threshold model. These results demonstrate the validity of QMRA for predicting disease rates due to Cryptosporidium and Giardia.
Media Disaster Reporting Effects on Public Risk Perception and Response to Escalating Tornado Warnings: A Natural Experiment
Authors: Zhao Mengtian , Rosoff Heather , John Richard S.
Published: October 2018

Previous research has evaluated public risk perception and response to a natural hazards in various settings; however, most of these studies were conducted either with a single scenario or after a natural disaster struck. To better understand the dynamic relationships among affect, risk perception, and behavioral intentions related to natural disasters, the current study implements a simulation scenario with escalating weather intensity, and includes a natural experiment allowing comparison of public response before and after a severe tornado event with extensive coverage by the national media. The current study also manipulated the display of warning information, and investigated whether the warning system display format influences public response. Results indicate that (1) affect, risk perception, and behavioral intention escalated as weather conditions deteriorated, (2) responses at previous stages predicted responses at subsequent stages of storm progression, and (3) negative affect predicted risk perception. Moreover, risk perception and behavioral intention were heightened after exposure to the media coverage of an actual tornado disaster. However, the display format manipulation did not influence behavioral responses. The current study provides insight regarding public perception of predisaster warnings and the influence of exposure to media coverage of an actual disaster event.
Globalization and urban polarization
Authors: Venables Anthony J.
Published: October 2018

External trade affects the internal spatial structure of an economy, promoting growth in some cities or regions and decline in others. Internal adjustment to these changes has often proved to be extremely slow and painful. This paper combines elements of urban and international economics to draw out the implications of trade shocks for city performance. Localization economies in production of internationally tradable goods mean that cities divide into two types, those producing tradables and those specializing in sectors producing just for the national market (nontradables). Negative trade shocks (and possibly also some positive ones) reduce the number of cities engaged in tradable production, increasing the number producing just nontradables. This has a negative effect across all nontradable cities, which lose population and land value. Remaining tradable cities boom, gaining population and land value. Depending on the initial position, city size dispersion may increase, thus raising the share of urban land rents in national income and reducing the share of labor.
Complexities in spatial center derivation
Authors: Murray Alan T.
Published: October 2018

The center of a spatial object or set of objects is a rather straightforward and well understood descriptor. Beyond providing a statistically oriented interpretation of the middle of something, the center often has much significance in terms of locating services and activities, but may also represent a place of political/historical importance, a site that explains the occurrence of events, or a position that avoids conflict. Even so, precise definition and specification of the spatial center is difficult, as many alternatives exist for such a descriptor in practice. This is because different interpretations of a spatial center are inevitable depending on context, theory, and operational nuances. As a result, a range of approaches may reflect the necessary descriptive flexibility, depending on the type of evaluation being carried out. While legacy mathematical and statistical thinking may point to particular alternatives, spatial significance and bias remain questionable for some approaches as they are not generally well understood. Further, a host of other considerations, such as direct and indirect summary along with homogeneous and heterogeneous attribute distribution, contribute additional levels of detail to choices for best characterizing a center. Definitions and approaches used to specify the center of a spatial object, or set of objects, are detailed to demonstrate the significance of spatial context, and are used to show that expanded interpretations are possible.
Effectiveness of interventions for unstable patients on antiretroviral therapy in South Africa: results of a cluster‐randomised evaluation
Authors: Fox Matthew P. , Pascoe Sophie J. S. , Huber Amy N. , Murphy Joshua , Phokojoe Mokgadi , Gorgens Marelize , Rosen Sydney , Wilson David , Pillay Yogan , Fraser‐Hurt Nicole
Published: October 2018

Background

As loss from HIV care is an ongoing challenge globally, interventions are needed for patients who don't achieve or maintain ART stability. The 2015 South African National Adherence Guidelines (AGL) for Chronic Diseases include two interventions targeted at unstable patients: early tracing of patients who miss visits (TRIC) and enhanced adherence counselling (EAC).

Methods

As part of a cluster‐randomised evaluation at 12 intervention and 12 control clinics in four provinces, intervention sites implemented the AGL interventions, while control sites retained standard care. We report on outcomes of EAC for patients with an elevated viral load (>400 copies/ml) and for TRIC patients who missed a visit by >5 days. We estimated risk differences (RD) of 3 and 12‐month viral resuppression (<400 copies/ml) and 12‐month retention with cluster adjustment using generalised estimating equations and controlled for imbalances using difference‐in‐differences compared to all eligible in 2015, prior to intervention roll‐out.

Results

For EAC, we had 358 intervention and 505 control site patients (61% female, median ART initiation CD4 count 154 cells/μl). We found no difference between arms in 3‐month resuppression (RD: −1.7%; 95%CI: −4.3% to 0.9%), but <20% of patients had a repeat viral load within 3 months (19.8% intervention, 13.5% control). Including the entire clinic population eligible for EAC with a repeat viral load at all evaluation sites (n = 934), intervention sites showed a small increase in 3‐month resuppression (28% vs. 25%, RD 3.0%; 95%CI: −2.7% to 8.8%). Adjusting for baseline differences increased the RD to 8.1% (95% CI: −0.1% to 17.2%). However, we found no differences in 12‐month suppression (RD: 1.5%; 95% CI: −14.1% to 17.1% but suppression was low overall at 40%) or retention (RD: 2.8%; 95% CI: −7.5% to 13.2%). For TRIC, we enrolled 155 at intervention sites and 248 at control sites (44% >40 years, 67% female, median CD4 count 212 cells/μl). We found no difference between groups in return to care by 12 months (RD: −6.8%; 95% CI: −17.7% to 4.8%). During the study period, control sites continued to use tracing within standard care, however, potentially masking intervention effects.

Conclusions

Enhanced adherence counselling showed no benefit over 12 months. Implementation of the tracing intervention under the new guidelines was similar to the standard of care. Interventions that aim to return unstable patients to care should incorporate active monitoring to determine if the interventions are effective.
Menstrual hygiene management and school absenteeism among adolescent students in Indonesia: evidence from a cross‐sectional school‐based survey
Authors: Davis Jessica , Macintyre Alison , Odagiri Mitsunori , Suriastini Wayan , Cordova Andreina , Huggett Chelsea , Agius Paul A. ,   Faiqoh , Budiyani Anissa Elok , Quillet Claire , Cronin Aidan A. , Diah Ni Made , Triwahyunto Agung , Luchters Stanley , Kennedy Elissa
Published: October 2018

Objective

To assess the prevalence of menstrual hygiene management (MHM) knowledge and practices among adolescent schoolgirls in Indonesia, and assess factors associated with poor MHM and school absenteeism due to menstruation.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey enrolled a representative sample of urban and rural school‐going girls aged 12–19 years in four provinces of Indonesia. A semi‐structured, self‐administered questionnaire obtained socio‐demographic characteristics, knowledge, practices and attitudes related to menstruation, MHM and school absenteeism. School water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities were also assessed. Univariate weighted population prevalence was estimated and multivariable logit regression analyses applied to explore associations.

Results

A total of 1159 adolescent girls with a mean age of 15 years (SD = 1.8) participated. Most girls (90.8%, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) = 79.7–96.1) had reached menarche. Over half (64.1%, 95% CI = 49.9–76.2) reported poor MHM practices, and 11.1% (95% CI = 8.1–15.2) had missed one or more days of school during their most recent menstrual period. Poor MHM practices were associated with rural residence (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.13–2.64), province (various AOR), lower school grade (AOR = 1.69, 95% CI = 1.05–2.74) and low knowledge of menstruation (AOR = 3.49, 95% CI = 1.61–7.58). Absenteeism was associated with living in rural areas (AOR = 3.96, 95% CI = 3.02–5.18), province (various AOR), higher school grade (AOR = 3.02, 95% CI = 2.08–4.38), believing menstruation should be kept secret (AOR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.03–2.11), experiencing serious menstrual pain (AOR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.06–2.68) and showed mixed associations with school WASH facilities.

Conclusions

High prevalence of poor MHM and considerable school absenteeism due to menstruation among Indonesian girls highlight the need for improved interventions that reach girls at a young age and address knowledge, shame and secrecy, acceptability of WASH infrastructure and menstrual pain management.
The health consequences of falsified medicines‐ A study of the published literature
Authors: Rahman Mohammad Sofiqur , Yoshida Naoko , Tsuboi Hirohito , Tomizu Naoki , Endo Jamie , Miyu Onishi , Akimoto Yoshio , Kimura Kazuko
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To analyse and present the literature describing the health consequences of falsified medicines, focusing on mortality and morbidity, as well as the scale of the issue, the geographic extent, the medicines affected, and the harm caused at both the individual and population levels.

Methods

We searched for articles in PubMed, using pre‐optimized keywords ‘(counterfeit OR fake OR bogus OR falsified OR spurious) AND (medicine OR drug)’. Searches up to February 2017 yielded 2006 hits, of which 1791 were full‐length articles in English. Among them, we found 81 papers that qualitatively or quantitatively described 48 incidents in which falsified medicines caused patients to suffer serious adverse effects, injury, symptoms or death.

Results

The distribution of incidents was examined according to the economic status of the countries involved, regional location in the world, therapeutic category of the medicines, number of incidents and victims by year, and characteristics of the falsified medicines. Among the 48 reported incidents, 27 (56.3%) occurred in developing countries and 21 (43.7%) in developed countries. These incidents involved a total of approximately 7200 casualties including 3604 deaths.

Conclusions

Despite the poor quality of much of the reported data, the results of this study indicate that all types of medications have been targeted for falsification, and falsified medicines have had a serious impact on the health of both adults and children worldwide, with similar numbers of incidents in developing and developed countries.
Soluble CD40L and CD62P levels differ in single‐donor apheresis platelet concentrates and buffy coat–derived pooled platelet concentrates
Authors: Sut Caroline , Tariket Sofiane , Aloui Chaker , Arthaud Charles‐Antoine , Eyraud Marie‐Ange , Fagan Jocelyne , Chavarin Patricia , Hamzeh‐Cognasse Hind , Laradi Sandrine , Garraud Olivier , Cognasse Fabrice
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Platelet storage lesions are structural and biochemical changes in platelet concentrates (PCs), and depend on variables in collection and processing, as well as secondary procedures and storage conditions; such lesions can be mitigated by the use of platelet additive solutions (PASs).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This study investigated release of the inflammatory markers sCD40L and sCD62P by single‐donor apheresis platelet concentrates (SDA‐PCs) and buffy coat–derived pooled platelet concentrates (PPCs) before and after storage. SDA‐PC and PPC samples (n = 9089) processed by various methods and stored for different durations were obtained following production in one regional setting, the French National Blood Service. Soluble factors were quantified in PC supernatants immediately after processing and at the time of delivery, using biological testing technology (Luminex).

RESULTS

SDA‐PCs appeared more activated than PPCs at the end of the production step (i.e., prior to storage); however, proinflammatory soluble factors exhibited greater increases in PPCs than in SDA‐PCs during storage. In SDA‐PCs, PAS‐D (65%) led to reduced secretion of sCD62P, but favored secretion of sCD40L, compared with the alternative PAS‐E.

CONCLUSION

These data stress the importance of the production (processing) steps of PC manufacture and of storage. The extent to which they affect patient outcomes awaits further investigation in clinical studies.
A repeated cross‐sectional study of the epidemiology of Campylobacter and antimicrobial resistant Enterobacteriaceae in free‐living Canada geese in Guelph, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Vogt Nadine A. , Pearl David L. , Taboada Eduardo N. , Reid‐Smith Richard J. , Mulvey Michael R. , Janecko Nicol , Mutschall Steven K. , Jardine Claire M.
Published: October 2018

From May through October 2016, we conducted a repeated cross‐sectional study examining the effects of temporal, spatial, flock and demographic factors (i.e. juvenile vs. adult) on the prevalence of Campylobacter and antimicrobial resistant Enterobacteriaceae among 344 fresh faecal samples collected from Canada geese (Branta canadensis) from four locations where birds nested in Guelph, Ontario, Canada. The overall prevalence of Campylobacter among all fresh faecal samples was 9.3% and was greatest in the fall when these birds became more mobile following the nesting season. Based on 40 gene comparative genomic fingerprinting (CGF40), the increase in prevalence noted in the fall was matched by an increase in the number of unique CGF40 subtypes identified. Resistance to colistin was detected most commonly, in 6% of Escherichia coli isolates, and was highest in the late summer months. All colistin‐resistant isolates were negative for the mcr‐1 to mcr‐5 genes; a chromosomal resistance mechanism (PmrB) was identified in all of these isolates. The prevalence of samples with E. coli exhibiting multi‐class resistance or extended spectrum beta‐lactamase was low (i.e. <2% of samples). The intra‐class correlation coefficients, estimated from the variance components of multilevel logistic regression models, indicated that the shedding of Campylobacter and antimicrobial resistant E. coli among geese within a flock (i.e. birds collected from the same site on the same day) was moderately correlated. Spatial, temporal, and spatiotemporal clusters identified using the spatial scan statistic, largely supported the findings from our multi‐level models. Salmonella was not isolated from any of the fresh faecal samples collected suggesting that its prevalence in this population of birds was very low.
Multi-Lead Direct Current Potential Drop Method for In Situ Health Monitoring of Ceramic Matrix Composites
Authors: Singh Yogesh P. , Presby Michael J. , Kannan Manigandan , Morscher Gregory N.
Published: October 2018

The method of direct current potential drop (DCPD) can be utilized as an effective and convenient approach for in situ damage detection, and as a nondestructive evaluation technique. We present the results from use of a multiprobe DCPD technique for in situ damage detection in loading of a SiC/SiC composite. It is shown that in three different modes of loading (monotonic, fatigue, and cyclic load–unload), the sensing capabilities of DCPD technique compare well to the techniques of modal acoustic emission (AE) and digital image correlation (DIC). It was also found that DCPD technique provides a far earlier warning of failure under fatigue loading than the other two methods. In addition, we show that strategically placed multiple voltage leads on the specimen surface provide a promising way of qualitatively determining the crack initiation site. Therefore, the use of multiple lead DCPD method, together with other techniques, provides a viable option for sensing damage in ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) with complex geometries, and for applications at higher temperatures.
Static and Dynamic Coefficient Measurements for a Thrust Collar Used in an Integrally Geared Compressor
Authors: Kerr Thomas , Crandall Andrew , Childs Dara , Delgado Adolfo
Published: October 2018

This paper introduces a test facility specifically designed to measure the axial stiffness and damping coefficients of an oil-lubricated thrust collar (TC). The geometry, load, and speeds of the test facility are representative of a production integrally geared compressor (IGC). Separate electric motors spin the shafts according to an assumed gear ratio; a pneumatic air piston loader provides a noncontacting, static thrust force; a remotely controlled impact hammer delivers a perturbation force; and eddy-current motion probes record the resulting vibration. The paper uses a one degree-of-freedom (1DOF) axial motion model that neglects the static and dynamic stiffness of the bull wheel (BW) and presents estimates of the TC oil-film dynamic coefficients for pinion spin speeds between 5 and 10 krpm, and static loads between 200 and 400 N, using time-domain (log-dec and damped period) and static load-deflection techniques. The measurements show that the TC oil-film develops appreciable stiffness (tens of MN/m), and the 1DOF model used here is inadequate for higher loads. Axial runout on the interfacing surfaces of the test facility TC and BW complicates parameter identification, but time-domain averaging effectively attenuates the runout while preserving the transient vibration that results from the impact hammer. Measurements of the TC oil-film stiffness, damping, and virtual mass coefficients are useful to machinery original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) or end-users seeking to predict or diagnose subsynchronous vibration in their machine that might be TC-related.
Film Cooling Measurements for a Laidback Fan-Shaped Hole: Effect of Coolant Crossflow on Cooling Effectiveness and Heat Transfer
Authors: Fraas Marc , Glasenapp Tobias , Schulz Achmed , Bauer Hans-Jörg
Published: October 2018

Internal coolant passages of gas turbine vanes and blades have various orientations relative to the external hot gas flow. As a consequence, the inflow of film cooling holes varies as well. To further identify the influencing parameters of film cooling under varying inflow conditions, the present paper provides detailed experimental data. The generic study is performed in a novel test rig, which enables compliance with all relevant similarity parameters including density ratio. Film cooling effectiveness as well as heat transfer of a 10–10–10 deg laidback fan-shaped cooling hole is discussed. Data are processed and presented over 50 hole diameters downstream of the cooling hole exit. First, the parallel coolant flow setup is discussed. Subsequently, it is compared to a perpendicular coolant flow setup at a moderate coolant channel Reynolds number. For the perpendicular coolant flow, asymmetric flow separation in the diffuser occurs and leads to a reduction of film cooling effectiveness. For a higher coolant channel Reynolds number and perpendicular coolant flow, asymmetry increases and cooling effectiveness is further decreased. An increase in blowing ratio does not lead to a significant increase in cooling effectiveness. For all cases investigated, heat transfer augmentation due to film cooling is observed. Heat transfer is highest in the near-hole region and decreases further downstream. Results prove that coolant flow orientation has a severe impact on both parameters.
NOx-Hydrocarbon Kinetics Model Validation Using Measurements of H2O in Shock-Heated CH4/C2H6 Mixtures With NO2 as Oxidant
Authors: Mathieu O. , Mulvihill C. R. , Curran H. J. , Petersen E. L.
Published: October 2018

One method frequently used to reduce NOx emissions is exhaust gas recirculation, where a portion of the exhaust gases, including NOx, is reintroduced into the combustion chamber. While a significant amount of research has been performed to understand the important fuel/NOx chemistry, more work is still necessary to improve the current understanding on this chemistry and to refine detailed kinetics models. To validate models beyond global kinetics data, such as ignition delay time or flame speed, the formation of H2O was recorded using a laser absorption diagnostic during the oxidation of a mixture representing a simplistic natural gas (90% CH4/10% C2H6 (mol)). This mixture was studied at a fuel lean condition (equivalence ratio = 0.5) and at atmospheric pressure. Unlike in conventional fuel-air experiments, NO2 was used as the oxidant to better elucidate the important, fundamental chemical kinetics by exaggerating the interaction between NOx and hydrocarbon-based species. Results showed a peculiar water formation profile, compared to a former study performed in similar conditions with O2 as oxidant. In the presence of NO2, the formation of water occurs almost immediately before it reaches more or less rapidly (depending on the temperature) a plateau. Modern, detailed kinetics models predict the data with fair to good accuracy overall, while the GRI 3.0 mechanism is proven inadequate for reproducing CH4/C2H6 and NO2 interactions.
Fabrication of astronomical x-ray reflection gratings using thermally activated selective topography equilibration
Authors: McCoy Jake A. , McEntaffer Randall L. , Eichfeld Chad M.
Published: October 2018

Thermally activated selective topography equilibration (TASTE) enables the creation of 3D structures in resist using grayscale electron-beam lithography followed by a thermal treatment to induce a selective polymer reflow. A blazed grating topography can be created by reflowing repeating staircase patterns in resist into wedgelike structures. Motivated by astronomical applications, such patterns with periodicities 840 and 400 nm have been fabricated in 130 nm-thick poly(methyl methacrylate) using TASTE to provide a base for x-ray reflection gratings. A path forward to integrate this alternative blazing technique into grating fabrication recipes is discussed.
An inconsequential overdose
Authors: Woodward Robert
Published: October 2018

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved.

In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, ‘An inconsequential overdose’, was submitted and is discussed by Robert Woodward. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue.

The series is being coordinated by Dr Steven McCulloch, acting director of the Centre for Animal Welfare, University of Winchester. It aims to provide a framework that will help practising veterinarians find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Component Edge Connectivity of Hypercubes
Authors: Zhao Shuli , Yang Weihua , Zhang Shurong , Xu Liqiong
Published: October 2018

Fault tolerance is an important issue in interconnection networks, and the traditional edge connectivity is an important measure to evaluate the robustness of an interconnection network. The component edge connectivity is a generalization of the traditional edge connectivity. The [Formula: see text]-component edge connectivity [Formula: see text] of a non-complete graph [Formula: see text] is the minimum number of edges whose deletion results in a graph with at least [Formula: see text] components. Let [Formula: see text] be an integer and [Formula: see text] be the decomposition of [Formula: see text] such that [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. In this note, we determine the [Formula: see text]-component edge connectivity of the hypercube [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text]. Moreover, we classify the corresponding optimal solutions.
Certificate-Based Generalized Ring Signcryption Scheme
Authors: Zhou Caixue , Gao Guangyong , Cui Zongmin , Zhao Zhiqiang
Published: October 2018

Generalized ring signcryption (GRSC) can realize ring signature and ring signcryption functions with only one key pair and one algorithm. It is very useful for a system with a large number of users, or whose function may be changed, or with limited storage space. We give a formal definition and security model of GRSC in the certificate-based cryptosystem setting and propose a concrete scheme by using bilinear pairings. The confidentiality of our scheme can be proved under the GBDH and CDH assumptions and the unforgeability of our scheme can be proved under [Formula: see text] and CDH assumptions in the random oracle model, and what is more, our scheme has unconditional anonymity. Compared with other certificateless ring signcryption schemes that use bilinear pairings, it is a highly efficient one.
Unified quaternionic description of charge and spin transport and intrinsic nonlinearity of spin currents
Authors: Pareek T. P.
Published: October 2018

We present a unified theory of charge and spin transport using quaternionic formalism. It is shown that both charge and spin currents can be combined together to form a quaternionic current. The scalar and vector part of quaternionic currents correspond to charge and spin currents, respectively. We formulate a unitarity condition on the scattering matrix for quaternionic current conservation. It is shown that in the presence of spin flip interactions, a weaker quaternionic unitarity condition implying charge flux conservation but spin flux nonconservation is valid. Using this unified theory, we find that spin currents are intrinsically nonlinear. Its implication for recent experimental observation of spin generation far away from the boundaries are discussed.