bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The exocyst is required for melanin exocytosis from melanocytes and transfer to keratinocytes
Authors: Moreiras Hugo , Pereira Francisco J. C. , Neto Matilde V. , Bento‐Lopes Liliana , Festas Tiago C. , Seabra Miguel C. , Barral Duarte C. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractSkin pigmentation involves the production of the pigment melanin by melanocytes, in melanosomes and subsequent transfer to keratinocytes. Within keratinocytes, melanin polarizes to the apical perinuclear region to form a protective cap, shielding the DNA from ultraviolet radiation‐induced damage. Previously, we found evidence to support the exocytosis by melanocytes of the melanin core, termed melanocore, followed by endo/phagocytosis by keratinocytes as a main form of transfer, with Rab11b playing a key role in the process. Here, we report the requirement for the exocyst tethering complex in melanocore exocytosis and transfer to keratinocytes. We observed that the silencing of the exocyst subunits Sec8 or Exo70 impairs melanocore exocytosis from melanocytes, without affecting melanin synthesis. Moreover, we confirmed by immunoprecipitation that Rab11b interacts with Sec8 in melanocytes. Furthermore, we found that the silencing of Sec8 or Exo70 in melanocytes impairs melanin transfer to keratinocytes. These results support our model as melanocore exocytosis from melanocytes is essential for melanin transfer to keratinocytes and skin pigmentation and suggest that the role of Rab11b in melanocore exocytosis is mediated by the exocyst.
Biomarker‐guided management reduces exacerbations in non‐eosinophilic asthma in pregnancy: A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Murphy Vanessa E. , Porsbjerg Celeste M. , Robijn Annelies L. , Gibson Peter G. 
Published: October 2019

ABSTRACTBackground and objectiveThe aim of this secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of asthma management in pregnancy was to determine the treatment decision differences between a symptom control algorithm and a fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO)‐guided algorithm, and whether the approach was effective in non‐eosinophilic asthma (NEA).MethodsIn this double‐blind parallel group RCT, women with asthma were randomized prior to 22 weeks gestation to treatment adjustment according to a symptom control algorithm (control group), or a FENO‐guided algorithm (inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) dose adjusted according to FENO with long‐acting beta‐agonist (LABA) added for uncontrolled symptoms). NEA was classified as baseline blood eosinophils <0.26 × 109/L and FENO ≤29 ppb. Exacerbations requiring medical intervention were recorded.ResultsAmong 220 non‐smokers (n = 109 control, n = 111 FENO), 1006 treatment decisions were made, with significant group differences after the first and second algorithm applications. 53% of women had NEA. Treatment was better targeted to phenotype in the FENO group: ICS use increased in eosinophilic asthma (EA, 48–86%), while ICS/LABA increased in NEA (11–30%). Fewer women in the FENO group had exacerbations during pregnancy in NEA only (18.9% FENO vs 44% control, P = 0.006).ConclusionThe FENO algorithm was more effective in treating NEA, resulting in reduced exacerbations, compared to a symptom control algorithm. This was not the result of ICS overtreatment, since the benefits occurred at a lower median daily ICS dose. Two applications of the FENO‐guided algorithm, one month apart, were sufficient to achieve beneficial effects in terms of asthma exacerbations, among pregnant women with asthma.
Sedimentological and petrographic evolution of a fluvio‐lacustrine environment during the onset of volcanism: Volcanically‐induced forcing of sedimentation and environmental responses
Authors: Di Capua Andrea , Scasso Roberto A. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractThis work focuses on the transition from the Las Leoneras to Lonco Trapial Formations, in the lower part of the Early Jurassic succession of the incipient rift phase of the Cañadon Asfalto Basin (western part of Chubut Province – Patagonia, Argentina). Twenty lithofacies have been identified and grouped into seven facies associations on the basis of field characteristics (sedimentological and lithological) and optical microscope analysis, from two localities representing proximal and distal locations in the basin. The spatial relationship between all the lithofacies provided a four‐dimensional reconstruction of the palaeoenvironmental evolution, showing how the original, clastic sedimentation in alluvial/fluvial and lake environments was modified by short‐lived volcanic events during three volcanic cycles, and how the environment reacted after the input of huge amounts of volcaniclastics. Progradation of small deltas and subaqueous lobes, retrogradation caused by rising lake levels, and frequent erosion of valleys were typical processes in this environment. When explosive volcanism began, the original tectono‐climatic control on sedimentation was replaced by the volcanic control, and the volcanically‐forced sedimentation broke the equilibrium among production, delivery and accumulation of sediments. The nature of the volcanic eruptions and the different propensity of volcanic lithofacies to produce particles of different size and types (lithics, crystals and glass) are also analyzed. The role of volcanism in the production and transport of great volumes of sediments across sedimentary systems needs to be carefully re‐examined, and the analysis on the variability in the composition of volcaniclastic deposits must take into account that volcaniclastic particle types may not simply reflect a linear deepening in the dissection of magmatic arcs through time but are often controlled by the style of the eruptions and the lithological variation of the volcanic products.
Influence of administration of antimicrobial medications after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy on surgical site infections: A retrospective study of 308 dogs
Authors: Clark Andrea C. , Greco Justin J. , Bergman Philip J. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractObjectiveTo determine the influence of prophylactic administration of oral antimicrobial medications after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) on surgical site infections (SSI) and antimicrobial‐resistant infections.Study designRetrospective study.Sample populationDogs treated with unilateral TPLO (n = 308) between January 2013 and December 2015.MethodsMedical records were reviewed for signalment, surgically treated limb, duration of surgery and anesthesia, postoperative administration of antimicrobial medications, antibiotic agent, surgeon, and development of SSI. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, simple linear regression, analysis of variance, Fisher's protected least significant difference, and χ2testing.ResultsData were collected from records of 31 dogs that did not receive antimicrobial medications and 277 dogs that did receive oral antimicrobial medications for 14 days after TPLO. Superficial incisional SSI was detected in two of 31 dogs that did not receive antimicrobial medications and in 48 of 277 dogs that did receive antimicrobial medications (P= .1194). Deep incisional SSI occurred in two of 31 dogs that did not receive antimicrobial medications and in 27 of 277 dogs that did receive antimicrobial medications (P= .5513). Antibiotic‐resistant deep incisional SSI occurred in two of 31 dogs that did not receive antimicrobial medications and in 18 of 277 dogs that did receive antimicrobial medications (P= .9920). Body weight correlated with deep incisional SSI and resistant infections. Prolonged duration of surgery and anesthesia were associated with superficial incisional SSI, deep incisional SSI, and antibiotic resistance. Surgeons influenced deep incisional SSI.ConclusionPreviously reported predisposing factors for infection were confirmed, but postoperative administration of antimicrobial medications was not protective against SSI nor did it predispose to antibiotic resistance in our clinical setting.Clinical significanceThis study does not provide evidence to support administration of prophylactic oral antimicrobial medications after unilateral TPLO.
Effect of subcutaneous closure technique on incisional complications and postoperative pain in cats undergoing midline celiotomy: A randomized, blinded, controlled trial
Authors: Lopez Daniel J. , Hayes Galina M. , Fefer Gilad , McCalla Sarah A. , LaLonde‐Paul Denise F. , Flanders James A. , Sumner Julia P. 
Published: October 2019

AbstractObjectiveTo compare the effect of three methods of subcutaneous tissue closure on postoperative incisional complications and pain in cats.Study designSingle‐center, randomized, blinded, controlled trial conducted in a veterinary teaching hospital.AnimalsTwo hundred ninety‐seven cats undergoing midline celiotomy for ovariohysterectomy (n = 280) or other abdominal procedure (n = 17).MethodsCats (n = 297) were assigned to one of three subcutaneous closure methods: simple continuous apposition with tacking to the rectus fascia (n = 108, quilting [Q] group); simple continuous apposition (SC; n = 94); no subcutaneous closure (NC; n = 95). Primary outcomes were incidence of seroma formation, postoperative pain, and surgical site infection or dehiscence. Active follow‐up was obtained at 10 and 30 days postoperatively.ResultsBaseline characteristics did not differ between groups. Seroma was less common in the Q group (13.0%) than in the NC (27.3%) and SC (25.9%) groups (P = .03). Compared with the other two groups, the relative risk of seroma formation in the Q group was 0.49 (95% CI = 0.28‐0.86, P = .01). Median mechanical pain thresholds were higher (indicating greater comfort) in cats with subcutaneous sutures (Q and SC = 1.23 [interquartile range (IQR), 0.2‐2.6 N], NC = 0.83 [IQR, 0‐1.87 N], P = .04) on the day after surgery.ConclusionClosing subcutaneous tissues with a quilting closure pattern reduced seroma formation in cats undergoing celiotomy.Clinical significancePlacing a quilting suture pattern in the subcutaneous tissues after celiotomy is a simple low‐cost measure that reduces seromas in cats. Abstaining from subcutaneous closure cannot be recommended because of increased seroma formation and pain.
An Environment Friendly Approach to Reduce the Breakdown Pressure of High Strength Unconventional Rocks by Cyclic Hydraulic Fracturing
Authors: Tariq Zeeshan , Mahmoud Mohamed , Abdulraheem Abdulazeez , Al-Shehri Dhafer , Murtaza Mobeen 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Unconventional hydrocarbon resources mostly found in highly stressed, overpressured, and deep formations, where the rock strength and integrity are very high. When fracturing these kinds of rocks, the hydraulic fracturing operation becomes much more challenging and difficult and in some cases reaches to the maximum pumping capacity limits without generating any fracture. This reduces the operational gap to optimally place the hydraulic fractures. Current stimulation methods to reduce the fracture pressures involvement with adverse environmental effects and high costs due to the entailment of water mixed with huge volumes of chemicals. In this study, a new environment friendly approach to reduce the breakdown pressure of the unconventional rock is presented. The new method incorporates the injection of chemical-free fracturing fluid in a series of cycles with a progressive increase of the pressurization rate in each cycle. This study is carried out on different cement blocks with varying petrophysical and mechanical properties to simulate real rock types. The results showed that the new method of cyclic fracturing can reduce the breakdown pressure to 24.6% in ultra-tight rocks, 19% in tight rocks, and 14.8% in medium- to low-permeability rocks. This reduction in breakdown pressure helped to overcome the operational challenges in the field and makes the fracturing operation much greener.
Numerical Simulation of the Resistance and Self-Propulsion Model Tests1
Authors: Lungu Adrian 
Published: October 2019

Abstract
The paper proposes a series of numerical investigations performed to test and demonstrate the capabilities of a Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equation (RANSE) solver in the area of complex ship flow simulations. The focus is on a complete numerical model for hull, propeller, and rudder that can account for the mutual interaction between these components. The paper presents the results of a complex investigation of the flow computations around the hull model of the 3600 TEU MOERI containership (KCS hereafter). The resistance for the hull equipped with a rudder, the propeller open-water (POW hereafter) computations, as well as the self-propulsion simulation are presented. Comparisons with the experimental data provided at the Tokyo 2015 Workshop on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) in Ship Hydrodynamics are given to validate the numerical approach in terms of the total and wave resistance coefficients, sinkage and trim, thrust and torque coefficients, propeller efficiency, and local flow features. Verification and validation based on the grid convergence tests are performed for each computational case. Discussions on the efficiency of the turbulence models used in the computations as well as on the main flow features are provided aimed at clarifying the complex structure of the flow around the ship stern.
Abnormal arterial anatomy and an unexpected intracranial haemorrhage
Authors: Bannerman Kieran 
Published: October 2019

A baby boy was born at term by spontaneous vaginal delivery to non-consanguineous parents following an unremarkable pregnancy. He was admitted to his local neonatal intensive care unit shortly after birth following several episodes of eye-rolling, colour change and apnoea. He had bilateral parieto-occipital cephalohaematomata, scattered petechiae and intermittent hypotonia. He was otherwise neurologically normal. A septic screen was completed and antibiotics and aciclovir were given. Cranial ultrasound, cerebral function monitoring and electroencephalography were normal. An echocardiogram demonstrated normal function and intracardiac anatomy but was suspicious for a dysplastic aortic arch and anomalous left pulmonary artery–aorta connection thus he was transferred to the regional paediatric cardiology centre where cardiac CT (figure 1) was undertaken. CT brain (figure 2) was performed simultaneously to delineate the cerebral vascular anatomy but demonstrated an intracranial lesion that accounted for the baby’s presentation.Figure 13D reconstruction of cardiac CT demonstrates, from this posterior perspective, the course and calibre of the major systemic and pulmonary arteries and venous return.Figure 2CT brain was undertaken at the time of cardiac CT to establish the cerebral arterial vascular anatomy.QuestionsWhat diagnosis was confirmed by cardiac CT?Scimitar syndromePartial anomalous pulmonary venous drainageMajor aortopulmonary collateral arteriesNeonatal pulmonary embolusArterial tortuosity syndromeWhat is the inheritance pattern of this condition?SporadicAutosomal dominant with high penetranceAutosomal dominant with low penetranceAutosomal recessiveX linkedWhich of these features is not associated with this diagnosis?Increased risk of strokePulmonary artery stenosisAbdominal ascitesJoint hypermobilityFacial dysmorphiaWhat abnormality is demonstrated on CT brain?Neonatal strokeSubdural haematomaNormal cranial suturesExtradural haematomaRuptured intracranial dermoid cystAnswers can be found on page 02.
The association of tryptophan and phenylalanine are associated with arsenic-induced skin lesions in a Chinese population chronically exposed to arsenic via drinking water: a case–control study
Authors: Wei Yaping , Jia Chaonan , Lan Yuan , Hou Xiangqing , Zuo Jingjing , Li Jushuang , Wang Tao , Mao Guangyun 
Published: October 2019

ObjectivesWe investigated the association of specific serum amino acids (AAs) with the odds of arsenic-induced skin lesions (AISL) and their ability to distinguish patients with AISL from people chronically exposed to arsenic.DesignCase–control study.SettingThree arsenic-exposed villages in Wuyuan County, Hetao Plain, Inner Mongolia, China were evaluated.ParticipantsAmong the 450 residents aged 18–79 years, who were chronically exposed to arsenic via drinking water, 56 were diagnosed as having AISL (defined as cases). Another 56 participants without AISL, matched by gender and age (±1 year) from the same population, were examined as controls.Main outcome measures and methodsAA levels were determined by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry-based metabolomics analysis. Potential confounding variables were identified via a standardised questionnaire and clinical examination. Multivariable conditional logistic regression model and receiver operating characteristic curve analyses were performed to investigate the relationship between specific AAs and AISL.ResultsTryptophan and phenylalanine levels were negatively associated with AISL (p<0.05). Compared with that in the first quartile, the adjusted OR of AISL in the second, third and fourth quartiles were decreased by 44%, 88% and 79% for tryptophan and 30%, 80% and 80% for phenylalanine, respectively. The combination of these two higher-level AAs showed the lowest OR for AISL (OR=0.08; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.25; p<0.001). Furthermore, both AAs showed a moderate ability to distinguish patients with AISL from the control, with the area under the curve (AUC; 95% CI) as 0.67 (0.57 to 0.77) for tryptophan and 0.70 (0.60 to 0.80) for phenylalanine (p<0.05). The combined pattern with AUC (95% CI) was 0.72 (0.62 to 0.81), showing a sensitivity of 76.79% and specificity of 58.93% (p<0.001).ConclusionsSpecific AAs may be linked to AISL and play important roles in early AISL identification.Trial Registration numberNCT02235948.
Costs of switching to low global warming potential inhalers. An economic and carbon footprint analysis of NHS prescription data in England
Authors: Wilkinson Alexander J K , Braggins Rory , Steinbach Ingeborg , Smith James 
Published: October 2019

ObjectivesMetered-dose inhalers (MDIs) contain propellants which are potent greenhouse gases. Many agencies propose a switch to alternative, low global warming potential (GWP) inhalers, such as dry powder inhalers (DPIs). We aimed to analyse the impact on greenhouse gas emissions and drug costs of making this switch.SettingWe studied National Health Service prescription data from England in 2017 and collated carbon footprint data on inhalers commonly used in England.DesignInhalers were separated into different categories according to their mechanisms of action (eg, short-acting beta-agonist). Within each category we identified low and high GWP inhalers and calculated the cost and carbon impact of changing to low GWP inhalers. We modelled scenarios for swapping proportionally according to the current market share of each equivalent DPI (model 1) and switching to the lowest cost pharmaceutically equivalent DPI (model 2). We also reviewed available data on the carbon footprint of inhalers from scientific publications, independently certified reports and patents to provide more accurate carbon footprint information on different types of inhalers.ResultsIf MDIs using HFA propellant are replaced with the cheapest equivalent DPI, then for every 10% of MDIs changed to DPIs, drug costs decrease by £8.2M annually. However if the brands of DPIs stay the same as 2017 prescribing patterns, for every 10% of MDIs changed to DPIs, drug costs increase by £12.7M annually. Most potential savings are due to less expensive long-acting beta-agonist (LABA)/inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) inhalers. Some reliever inhalers (eg, Ventolin) have a carbon footprint over 25 kg CO2e per inhaler, while others use far less 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoroethane (HFA134a) (eg, Salamol) with a carbon footprint of <10 kg CO2e per inhaler. 1,1,1,2,3,3,3-Heptafluoropropane (HFA227ea) LABA/ICS inhalers (eg, Flutiform) have a carbon footprint over 36 kg CO2e, compared with an equivalent HFA134a combination inhaler (eg, Fostair) at <20 kg CO2e. For every 10% of MDIs changed to DPIs, 58 kt CO2e could be saved annually in England.ConclusionsSwitching to DPIs would result in large carbon savings and can be achieved alongside reduced drug costs by using less expensive brands. Substantial carbon savings can be made by using small volume HFA134a MDIs, in preference to large volume HFA134a MDIs, or those containing HFA227ea as a propellant.
Bacterial antibiotic resistance development and mutagenesis following exposure to subminimal inhibitory concentrations of fluoroquinolones in vitro: a systematic literature review protocol
Authors: Ching Carly , Orubu Ebiowei S.F. , Wirtz Veronika J. , Zaman Muhammad H. 
Published: October 2019

IntroductionAntibiotic resistance (AR) is among the most pressing global health challenges. Fluoroquinolones are a clinically important group of antibiotics that have wide applicability in both humans and animals. While many drivers of AR are known, the impact of medicine quality on AR remains largely unknown. The aim of this review is to systematically evaluate the evidence of the impact of in vitro subinhibitory antibiotic exposure, a major tenet of substandard antibiotics, on the development of AR and mutagenesis, using fluoroquinolones as a case study.Methods and analysisEMBASE, Web of Science and PubMed will be systematically searched for primary experimental in vitro studies, from earliest available dates within each database (1947, 1965 and 1966, respectively) through 2018, related to subinhibitory fluoroquinolone exposure and AR. A specifically developed non-weighted tool will be used to critically assess the evidence. Subgroup analyses will be performed for different variables and outcomes.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval is not required as no primary data are to be collected. The completed systematic review will be disseminated through conference meeting presentations and a peer-reviewed publication.
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders from childhood to adulthood: a Swedish population-based naturalistic cohort study of adoptees from Eastern Europe
Authors: Landgren Valdemar , Svensson Leif , Gyllencreutz Emelie , Aring Eva , Grönlund Marita Andersson , Landgren Magnus 
Published: October 2019

BackgroundFetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are a global health concern. To further understand FASD in adulthood is a major public health interest.ObjectiveTo describe the clinical characteristics of young adults with FASD adopted from orphanages to a socially more favourable and stable rearing environment as children.DesignProspective observational cohort studySettingWestern SwedenParticipantsA population-based cohort of 37 adoptees diagnosed with FASD in childhood.Outcome measuresAssessment consisted of clinical evaluations of social, medical, psychiatric, neuropsychological, adaptive and ophthalmological status by a physician, ophthalmologist, orthoptist and psychologist.ResultsOut of 37 adoptees with FASD, 36 (15 females) were evaluated at a median age of 22 years (range 18–28) and a mean follow-up time of 15.5 years (range 13–17). Twenty (56%) were dependent on social support. Sexual victimisation was reported by nine (26%). In 21 individuals with fetal alcohol syndrome, growth restriction in height and head circumference of approximately −1.8 SD persisted into adulthood. Of 32 examined, 22 (69%) had gross motor coordination abnormalities. High blood pressure was measured in nine (28%). Ophthalmological abnormalities were found in 29 of 30 (97%). A median IQ of 86 in childhood had declined significantly to 71 by adulthood (mean difference: 15.5; 95% CI 9.5–21.4). Psychiatric disorders were diagnosed in 88%, most commonly attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (70%). Three or more disorders were diagnosed in 48%, and 21% had attempted suicide. The median Clinical Global Impression-Severity score was 6 = ‘severely ill’.ConclusionMajor cognitive impairments, psychiatric morbidity, facial dysmorphology, growth restriction and ophthalmological abnormalities accompanies FASD in adulthood. Recognition of FASD in childhood warrants habilitation across the lifespan.