bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bone Mineral Density Mapping of Iliosacral Region: The Use of Hounsfield Units to Optimize Transsacral Screw Trajectory
Authors: Nakamura Tawney , Fredericks Donald R , Saxena Sameer , Helgeson Melvin D , Wagner Scott C 
Published: November 2019

AbstractIntroductionTrauma, degenerative, pediatric, and neuromuscular deformities often require placement of implants into sacrum for construct stability. In these scenarios, fixation to the ilium is often added. To date, multiple studies have validated the correlation between Hounsfield units (HU) as measured on computed tomography and bone mineral density (BMD) on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry to assess bone quality and fracture risk. We sought to map the BMD of the iliosacral region at the S1 and S2 levels using HU.Materials and MethodsPelvic CT scans of 100 patients were evaluated. HU measurements were taken from the anterior and posterior ilium, sacral ala, and sacral body using a best-fit circle encompassing a maximal amount of cancellous bone. Following the collection of all data points, an analysis of variance model was created to test the means and standard deviations of each anatomic region.ResultsThe highest mean BMD was found in the following locations (in descending order): S1 sacral body (279.72 HU, 95% confidence interval [CI], 261.75–297.69), S1 anterior ilium (254.45 HU, 95% CI, 236.64–272.27), S2 anterior ilium (229.88 HU, 95% CI, 211.39–248.36), and the S2 sacral body (191.58 HU, 95% CI, 173.31–209.85). Comparing the anterior ilium to the sacral ala, there was a higher BMD measurement at both the S1 level by 151.7 HU (p &lt; 0.001) and the S2 level by 170.3 HU (p &lt; 0.001). The anterior ilium also showed a significantly higher BMD when compared to measurements taken at the posterior ilium at the same level: at the S1 level by 100.5 HU (p &lt; 0.001) and at the S2 level by 52.2 HU (p = 0.0006). The vertebral body had significantly higher mean BMD measurements when compared to the sacral ala at the S1 level by 176.9 HU (p &lt; 0.001) and at the S2 level by 131.95 HU (p &lt; 0.001).ConclusionsThe findings indicate that there is significantly higher BMD density of the anterior ilium and sacral body when compared to the sacral ala at both the S1 and S2 levels. In addition, the anterior ilium appears to provide more dense bone than the posterior ilium, as measured by mean HU.
Occult HBV Infection: A Case Series at a Military Treatment Facility
Authors: Pak Kevin , Ordway Sarah , Torres Dawn 
Published: November 2019

AbstractOccult HBV infection (OBI) is defined as the presence of detectable hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) negative individuals. Rarely, OBI is attributed to mutant HBV that cannot be detected by commercial assays, but most cases occur in the setting of chronic hepatitis B, particularly infection with wild-type viruses associated with strong HBV suppression. OBI is a high-risk diagnosis as it is associated with multiple complications: HBV reactivation in immunocompromised states, transmission of HBV, progression of liver disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The diagnosis is also easy to overlook, as the negative HBsAg in such cases can be falsely reassuring. This case series describes four male patients (mean age 51) who were diagnosed with OBI in the same military treatment facility between February 2018 and October 2018. Two of the four patients were active duty service members at the time of diagnosis. These patients had variable clinical presentations and outcomes. This case series illustrates the clinical significance of OBI and the importance of screening for OBI in HBsAg negative patients with signs of chronic or severe hepatic inflammation. It also prompts an intriguing question regarding the prevalence of both HBV and OBI in the United States military and whether or not routine screening for HBV should be implemented in this population. Further study is warranted to determine if adding HBV core antibody to a universally employed screening regimen would be beneficial.
SDSS-IV MaNGA: Bar pattern speed estimates with the Tremaine-Weinberg method and their error sources
Authors: Garma-Oehmichen L , Cano-Díaz M , Hernández-Toledo H , Aquino-Ort’iz E , Valenzuela O , Aguerri J A L , Sánchez S F , Merrifield M 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Estimating the bar pattern speed (Ωbar) is one of the main challenges faced in understanding the role of stellar bars in galaxy dynamical evolution. This work aims to characterise different uncertainty sources affecting the Tremaine Weinberg (TW)-method to study the correlation between bar and galaxies physical parameters. We use a sample of 15 MaNGA SDSS-IV galaxies and 3 CALIFA galaxies from Aguerri et al. (2015). We studied the errors related with (i) galaxy centre determination, (ii) disc position angle (PA) emphasising the difficulties triggered by outer non-axisymmetric structures besides the bar, (iii) the slits length and (iv) the spatial resolution. In average, the PA uncertainties range $\sim 15 \%$, the slit length $\sim 9 \%$ and the centring error $\sim 5 \%$. Reducing the spatial resolution increases the sensitivity to the PA error. Through Monte Carlo simulations, we estimate the probability distribution of the $\mathcal {R}$ bar speed parameter. The present sample is composed of 7 slow, 4 fast and 7 ultrafast bars, with no trend with morphological types. Although uncertainties and low sample numbers may mask potential correlations between physical properties, we present a discussion of them: We observe an anti-correlation of Ωbar with the bar length and the stellar mass, suggesting that massive galaxies tend to host longer and slower bars. We also observe a correlation of the molecular gas fraction with $\mathcal {R}$, and a weak anti-correlation with Ωbar, suggesting that bars rotate slower in gaseous discs. Confirmation of such trends awaits future studies.
A Swift view of X-ray and UV radiation in the planet-forming T Tauri system PDS 70
Authors: Joyce Simon R G , Pye John P , Nichols Jonathan D , Page Kim L , Alexander Richard , Güdel Manuel , Metodieva Yanina 
Published: November 2019

ABSTRACT
PDS 70 is a ∼5-Myr-old star with a gas and dust disc in which several protoplanets have been discovered. We present the first ultraviolet (UV) detection of the system along with X-ray observations taken with the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory satellite. PDS 70 has an X-ray flux of 3.4 × 10−13 erg cm−2 s−1 in the 0.3–10.0 keV range, and UV flux (U band) of 3.5 × 10−13 erg cm−2 s−1 . At the distance of 113.4 pc determined from Gaia Data Release 2, this gives luminosities of 5.2 × 1029 and 5.4 × 1029 erg s−1, respectively. The X-ray luminosity is consistent with coronal emission from a rapidly rotating star close to the log $\frac{L_{\mathrm{X}}}{L_{\mathrm{bol}}} \sim -3$ saturation limit. We find the UV luminosity is much lower than would be expected if the star were still accreting disc material and suggest that the observed UV emission is coronal in origin.
Ancient Adaptive Lateral Gene Transfers in the Symbiotic Opalina–Blastocystis Stramenopile Lineage
Authors: Yubuki Naoji , Galindo Luis Javier , Reboul Guillaume , López-García Purificación , Brown Matthew W , Pollet Nicolas , Moreira David 
Published: November 2019

AbstractLateral gene transfer is a very common process in bacterial and archaeal evolution, playing an important role in the adaptation to new environments. In eukaryotes, its role and frequency remain highly debated, although recent research supports that gene transfer from bacteria to diverse eukaryotes may be much more common than previously appreciated. However, most of this research focused on animals and the true phylogenetic and functional impact of bacterial genes in less-studied microbial eukaryotic groups remains largely unknown. Here, we have analyzed transcriptome data from the deep-branching stramenopile Opalinidae, common members of frog gut microbiomes, and distantly related to the well-known genus Blastocystis. Phylogenetic analyses suggest the early acquisition of several bacterial genes in a common ancestor of both lineages. Those lateral gene transfers most likely facilitated the adaptation of the free-living ancestor of the Opalinidae–Blastocystis symbiotic group to new niches in the oxygen-depleted animal gut environment.
Genomic Resources for Darters (Percidae: Etheostominae) Provide Insight into Postzygotic Barriers Implicated in Speciation
Authors: Moran Rachel L , Catchen Julian M , Fuller Rebecca C 
Published: November 2019

AbstractComparative genomic approaches are increasingly being used to study the evolution of reproductive barriers in nonmodel species. Although numerous studies have examined prezygotic isolation in darters (Percidae), investigations into postzygotic barriers have remained rare due to long generation times and a lack of genomic resources. Orangethroat and rainbow darters naturally hybridize and provide a remarkable example of male-driven speciation via character displacement. Backcross hybrids suffer from high mortality, which appears to promote behavioral isolation in sympatry. To investigate the genomic architecture of postzygotic isolation, we used Illumina and PacBio sequencing to generate a chromosome-level, annotated assembly of the orangethroat darter genome and high-density linkage maps for orangethroat and rainbow darters. We also analyzed genome-wide RADseq data from wild-caught adults of both species and laboratory-generated backcrosses to identify genomic regions associated with hybrid incompatibles. Several putative chromosomal translocations and inversions were observed between orangethroat and rainbow darters, suggesting structural rearrangements may underlie postzygotic isolation. We also found evidence of selection against recombinant haplotypes and transmission ratio distortion in backcross hybrid genomes, providing further insight into the genomic architecture of genetic incompatibilities. Notably, regions with high levels of genetic divergence between species were enriched for genes associated with developmental and meiotic processes, providing strong candidates for postzygotic isolating barriers. These findings mark significant contributions to our understanding of the genetic basis of reproductive isolation between species undergoing character displacement. Furthermore, the genomic resources presented here will be instrumental for studying speciation in darters, the most diverse vertebrate group in North America.
The CHROME Study, a Real-world Experience of Single- and Multiple-Dose Oritavancin for Treatment of Gram-Positive Infections
Authors: Redell Mark , Sierra-Hoffman Miguel , Assi Maha , Bochan Markian , Chansolme David , Gandhi Anurag , Sheridan Kathleen , Soosaipillai Ivan , Walsh Thomas , Massey Jill 
Published: November 2019

AbstractBackgroundOritavancin (ORI) is a long-acting lipoglycopeptide indicated for the treatment of adult patients with acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections (ABSSSIs) caused or suspected to be caused by susceptible Gram-positive (GP) pathogens.MethodsData collected from a retrospective observational program (2014–2017), Clinical and Historic Registry and Orbactiv Medical Evaluation (CHROME), describe the utilization, outcomes, and adverse events (AEs) associated with ORI in 440 patients treated at 26 US sites for ABSSSI and other GP infections.ResultsClinical success in evaluable patients receiving at least 1 dose of oritavancin was 88.1% (386/438). In a subgroup of patients who received ORI for skin and soft tissue infections (n = 401) and bacteremia (n = 7), clinical success was achieved in 89.0% and 100%, respectively. A cohort of 32 patients received 2–10 ORI doses separated by no more than 14 days for complicated GP infections. Clinical success was observed in 30 of 32 patients (93.8%), including 10 of 11 (90.9%) patients with bone and joint infections and 7 of 8 (87.5%) patients with osteomyelitis. In the safety evaluable population, the overall rate of AEs was 6.6%.ConclusionsWe describe results from a real-world program that includes the largest multicenter, retrospective, observational study in patients who received at least 1 dose of ORI for the treatment of GP infections. This study confirms that ORI is an effective, well-tolerated antibiotic used in single and multiple doses for the treatment of ABSSSIs and complicated GP infections.
Extracellular SPARC cooperates with TGF-β signalling to induce pro-fibrotic activation of systemic sclerosis patient dermal fibroblasts
Authors: Carvalheiro Tiago , Malvar Fernández Beatriz , Ottria Andrea , Giovannone Barbara , Marut Wioleta , Reedquist Kris A , Garcia Samuel , Radstake Timothy R 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Objectives
SSc is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation, vascular injury and excessive fibrosis in multiple organs. Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a matricellular glycoprotein that regulates processes involved in SSc pathology, such as inflammation and fibrosis. In vivo and in vitro studies have implicated SPARC in SSc, but it is unclear if the pro-fibrotic effects of SPARC on fibroblasts are a result of intracellular signalling or fibroblast interactions with extracellular SPARC hampering further development of SPARC as a potential therapeutic target. This study aimed to analyse the potential role of exogenous SPARC as a regulator of fibrosis in SSc.

Methods
Dermal fibroblasts from both healthy controls and SSc patients were stimulated with SPARC alone or in combination with TGF-β1, in the absence or presence of a TGF receptor 1 inhibitor. mRNA and protein expression of extracellular matrix components and other fibrosis-related mediators were measured by quantitative PCR and western blot.

Results
Exogenous SPARC induced mRNA and protein expression of collagen I, collagen IV, fibronectin 1, TGF-β and SPARC by dermal fibroblasts from SSc patients, but not from healthy controls. Importantly, exogenous SPARC induced the activation of the tyrosine kinase SMAD2 and pro-fibrotic gene expression induced by SPARC in SSc fibroblasts was abrogated by inhibition of TGF-β signalling.

Conclusion
These results indicate that exogenous SPARC is an important pro-fibrotic mediator contributing to the pathology driving SSc but in a TGF-β dependent manner. Therefore, SPARC could be a promising therapeutic target for reducing fibrosis in SSc patients, even in late states of the disease.
NUMERICAL ANALYSIS OF SAFETY ZONE OF A LARGE FLAT-PLATE BOUNDED-WAVE EMP SIMULATOR
Authors: Huang Liuhong , Meng Cui , Li Yuebo , Yang Jie , Xiong Jiuliang , Wu Ping , Jiang Yunsheng 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
The safety zone of a large flat-plate bounded-wave electromagnetic pulse simulator was analyzed using the 3D electromagnetic simulation software Computer Simulation Technology. First, the double-limit requirement cited from the GB 8702 for an instantaneous pulse was clarified compared with the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection guidelines. This means that both the amplitude of the time-domain waveforms and all frequency components should be satisfied with the respective exposure limits. Then, the leakage field of a large flat-plate bounded-wave simulator was simulated. After analyzing the peak amplitude of an instantaneous electric field in a certain area, the observation points along six directions were specified, and the corresponding amplitudes were given. Furthermore, it was verified that the time-domain electric field of the critical points was satisfied with the frequency-domain exposure limits. Finally, the safety distances lower than the reference levels were given, and the safety zones corresponding to the three common exposure limits were obtained.
Ideological Legitimacy, Color-blindness, and Racially Conservative Organizations
Authors: Ebert Kim 
Published: November 2019

AbstractAlthough scholars of racial inequality have investigated the transformation of racial ideologies in the post-Civil Rights Era, comparatively little research has been done on a corresponding transformation in racial advocacy organizing. Using an original dataset, I introduce racially conservative organizations, provide a history of their growth from 1960 to 2000, and estimate their formation in metropolitan areas over three decades to better specify the factors that led to their emergence. Measures of organizational strength, stability, and growth reveal that racially conservative organizations thrived relative to white extremist organizations in the second half of the 20th century, alongside the de-legitimation of explicit racism and rise of color-blind racism. The multivariate analysis indicates that metropolitan areas with increased political opportunities witnessed a greater likelihood of organizational formation among racial conservatives. In the 1970s, threats to dominant group interests emboldened racial conservatives and incited mobilization. However, in later decades, these conditions weakened dominant group interests in a way that deterred collective action. Racially conservative organizations are more likely to form in contexts that provide them with legitimacy to mobilize around racially sensitive issues. The findings challenge past research that conflates racial conservatism and white extremism and assumes that they share the same determinants.
Inquiry-oriented differential equations: a guided journey of learning
Authors: Habre Samer 
Published: November 2019

AbstractThis study conducted at the Lebanese American University in spring 2018 reports on an inquiry-oriented differential equations class where the course curriculum falls within the realm of Realistic Mathematics Education. The focus of the study is on some curriculum tasks and how they assist students reinvent successfully key mathematical notions covered in most introductory differential equations courses. While the results show remarkable cognitive gains in understanding and thinking, reinventing knowledge was demanding and in some cases required the intervention of the instructor to control and lead the discussion. Results also show that the lack of appropriate mathematical knowledge was sometimes an obstacle for the reinvention process, and the traditional view of mathematical learning a hindrance for accepting that an inquiry-oriented approach can fulfil the course outcomes.
Maternal and fetal blood pharmacokinetics and organ distribution of atrazine, propazine, simazine and their metabolites in pregnant rats after chronic oral administration
Authors: Brandhonneur Nolwenn , Hutin Vincent , Chevrier Cécile , Cordier Sylvaine , Le Corre Pascal 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
Environmental contamination by chlorotriazines has been evidenced in mother-child cohort suggesting more detailed risk assessment of these compounds in drinking water. Exposure of rodents to atrazine has been associated to alterations of endocrine and reproductive functions by disrupting neuroendocrine control at hypothalamus level. Perinatal exposure to low doses of atrazine has been associated to reproductive dysfunction, and to behavioral abnormalities in adult exposed during embryogenesis. The objectives of the current investigation were to (1) evaluate the influence of physico-chemical properties of chlorotriazines on tissue distribution in pregnant rats and in fetuses, (2) gain a better understanding of fetal distribution of chlorotriazines in specific tissues, particularly in brain.
Serial blood samples were obtained from pregnant rats after administration of atrazine (ATZ), propazine (PRO) and simazine (SIM) via oral route at a dose of 10 mg/kg from day 15 to day 19. Maternal and fetal tissues were harvested at day 20, 24 hrs after the last dosing.
The metabolic extraction ratio was estimated to 87% suggesting a significant first-pass effect explaining the low oral bioavailability. Blood exposure to parent compounds (ATZ, PRO and SIM) was negligible (lower than 5%) compared to metabolite exposure. The main metabolite exposure involved diamino-s-chlorotriazine (DACT), ranging from 60 to 90% depending on the molecules administered. A correlation between tissue-to-blood ratio and physico-chemical descriptors were observed for fat and mammary gland tissues but not for brain in adult rats. A more pronounced distribution in fetal brain was observed for ATZ and PRO, the two most lipophilic compounds.
Role of pharmacogenetics in rifampicin pharmacokinetics and the potential effect on TB–rifampicin sensitivity among Ugandan patients
Authors: Mukonzo Jackson K , Kengo Allan , Kutesa Bisaso , Nanzigu Sarah , Pohanka Anton , McHugh Timothy D , Zumla Alimuddin , Aklillu Eleni 
Published: November 2019

Abstract

Background
Suboptimal anti-TB drugs exposure may cause multidrug-resistant TB. The role of African predominant SLCO1B1 variant alleles on rifampicin pharmacokinetics and the subsequent effect on the occurrence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis–rifampicin sensitivity needs to be defined. We describe the rifampicin population pharmacokinetics profile and investigate the relevance of SLCO1B1 genotypes to rifampicin pharmacokinetics and rifampicin-TB sensitivity status.

Methods
Fifty patients with TB (n=25 with rifampicin-resistant TB and n=25 with rifampicin-susceptible TB) were genotyped for SLOC1B1 rs4149032 (g.38664C&gt;T), SLOC1B1*1B (c.388A&gt;G) and SLOC1B1*5 (c.521 T&gt;C). Steady state plasma rifampicin levels were determined among patients infected with rifampicin-sensitive TB. Data were analysed using NONMEM to estimate population rifampicin pharmacokinetics as well as the effect of SLOC1B1 genotypes on rifampicin pharmacokinetics and on rifampicin-TB sensitivity status.

Results
Overall allele frequencies of SLOC1B1 rs4149032, *1B and *5 were 0.66, 0.90 and 0.01, respectively. Median (IQR) Cmax and Tmax were 10.2 (8.1–12.5) mg/L and 1.7 (1.125–2.218) h, respectively. Twenty-four percent of patients exhibited Cmax below the recommended 8–24 mg/L range. SLOC1B1 genotypes, gender and age did not influence rifampicin pharmacokinetics or TB-rifampicin sensitivity.

Conclusions
Although SLOC1B1 genotype, age and gender do not influence either rifampicin pharmacokinetics or rifampicin-TB sensitivity status, one in every four Ugandan TB patients achieve subtherapeutic plasma rifampicin concentrations.
Molecular phylogeny of Ceriantharia (Cnidaria: Anthozoa) reveals non-monophyly of traditionally accepted families
Authors: Forero Mejia Anny C , Molodtsova Tina , Östman Carina , Bavestrello Giorgio , Rouse Greg W 
Published: November 2019

Abstract
We present an integrative study with molecular phylogenetic reconstructions and morphological assessment across the three Ceriantharia families: Arachnactidae, Botrucnidiferidae and Cerianthidae. The Arachnactidae specimens (Isarachnanthus spp.) form a well-supported clade, whereas Cerianthidae and Botrucnidiferidae are not recovered as monophyletic. Consequently, the validity of the suborder Spirularia is questioned. Cerianthus was recovered as polyphyletic and Ceriantheomorphe may prove to be a junior synonym of Cerianthus. The taxonomic position of Cerianthus cf. mortenseni is also discussed. All specimens identified on morphology as belonging to Pachycerianthus are recovered as a clade. Further revision of taxa within Ceriantharia is necessary. Molecular phylogenetic analyses based on six mitochondrial or nuclear loci place Ceriantharia as sister to Hexacorallia s.s., but with no significant support relative to an alternative hypothesis that it is the sister taxon to Octocorallia. Further molecular sequence data and taxon sampling will be needed to resolve the position of Ceriantharia.
Giant cell tumor of the thoracic spine in a 30-year-old woman
Authors: Shivers Jennifer , Hu Xiaobang , Lieberman Isador H. 
Published: November 2019

ABSTRACT
Giant cell tumor (GCT) of the spine is a rare, benign tumor. Patients typically present with pain and also may experience neurologic deficits from spinal cord and/or nerve root compression. This article describes a patient who presented with acute mid-back pain, was diagnosed with spinal GCT through biopsy, and was treated successfully with surgical resection and instrumentation.