bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Functional specialization of UDP‐glycosyltransferase 73P12 in licorice to produce a sweet triterpenoid saponin, glycyrrhizin
Authors: Nomura Yuhta , Seki Hikaru , Suzuki Tomonori , Ohyama Kiyoshi , Mizutani Masaharu , Kaku Tomomi , Tamura Keita , Ono Eiichiro , Horikawa Manabu , Sudo Hiroshi , Hayashi Hiroaki , Saito Kazuki , Muranaka Toshiya 
Published: May 2019

SummaryGlycyrrhizin, a sweet triterpenoid saponin found in the roots and stolons of Glycyrrhiza species (licorice), is an important active ingredient in traditional herbal medicine. We previously identified two cytochrome P450 monooxygenases, CYP88D6 and CYP72A154, that produce an aglycone of glycyrrhizin, glycyrrhetinic acid, in Glycyrrhiza uralensis. The sugar moiety of glycyrrhizin, which is composed of two glucuronic acids, makes it sweet and reduces its side‐effects. Here, we report that UDP‐glycosyltransferase (UGT) 73P12 catalyzes the second glucuronosylation as the final step of glycyrrhizin biosynthesis in G. uralensis; the UGT73P12 produced glycyrrhizin by transferring a glucuronosyl moiety of UDP‐glucuronic acid to glycyrrhetinic acid 3‐O‐monoglucuronide. We also obtained a natural variant of UGT73P12 from a glycyrrhizin‐deficient (83‐555) strain of G. uralensis. The natural variant showed loss of specificity for UDP‐glucuronic acid and resulted in the production of an alternative saponin, glucoglycyrrhizin. These results are consistent with the chemical phenotype of the 83‐555 strain, and suggest the contribution of UGT73P12 to glycyrrhizin biosynthesis in planta. Furthermore, we identified Arg32 as the essential residue of UGT73P12 that provides high specificity for UDP‐glucuronic acid. These results strongly suggest the existence of an electrostatic interaction between the positively charged Arg32 and the negatively charged carboxy group of UDP‐glucuronic acid. The functional arginine residue and resultant specificity for UDP‐glucuronic acid are unique to UGT73P12 in the UGT73P subfamily. Our findings demonstrate the functional specialization of UGT73P12 for glycyrrhizin biosynthesis during divergent evolution, and provide mechanistic insights into UDP‐sugar selectivity for the rational engineering of sweet triterpenoid saponins.
Flaviviruses in migratory passerines during spring stopover in a desert oasis
Authors: Ayadi Tasnim , Hammouda Abdesslem , Beck Ceclie , Boulinier Thierry , Lecollinet Sylvie , Selmi Slaheddine 
Published: May 2019

AbstractBird migration has long been hypothesized as the main mechanism for long‐distance dispersal of flaviviruses, but the role of migratory birds in flaviviruses spillover is not well documented. In this study, we investigated the eco‐epidemiology of West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) in trans‐Saharan passerines during their spring stopover in southern Tunisian oases. To do, we combined oral swab analysis and serological tools to assess whether migratory birds could be reaching these stopover sites while infectious or have been previously exposed to viruses. All sampled birds tested negative for oral swab analysis. However, anti‐WNV and anti‐USUV antibodies were detected in 32% and 1% of tested birds, respectively. Among WNV‐seropositive species, the Golden oriole (Oriolus oriolus) showed the highest anti‐WNV occurrence probability. In this species, anti‐WNV occurrence was twice larger in males than females. Inter‐specific and intraspecific morphological, physiological and behavioural differences could explain these results. Although our findings did not show evidence for passerines migrating while infectious, they did not exclude an existing enzootic WNV transmission cycle in Tunisian oases. Further investigations including larger samples of migratory birds are needed for a better understanding of this issue.
Stage Performance and Radial Matching of Axial Compressor Blade Rows
Authors: Watkins Jeffrey 
Published: May 2019

To obtain the ultimate in performance from an axial compressor stage it is necessary that the operation of the blade rows comprising the stage be thoroughly understood. Appreciable advances have been accomplished in recent years, but much still remains to be done. This paper aims to present practical hypotheses concerning the nature of the flow between the blades and deals with design techniques in relation to this flow.
In addition, some elements of two-dimensional cascade data and a discourse on practical secondary flows are presented.
Axial, Relative Motion of a Circular Step Bearing
Authors: Licht L. 
Published: May 2019

Equations relating the flow of the lubricant and the axial motion of an externally pressurized thrust bearing are developed. The bearing is shown to be stable when the fluid is incompressible.
Expressions for local stiffness and damping coefficients, useful in the evaluation of the dynamic response of the bearing, are given.
An analog computer solution of the equation of motion is compared with the results of the corresponding, small displacement equation.
Ballast Water Management Technologies: A Review and Consideration of Future Developments
Authors: Stewart Jon 
Published: May 2019

Current Status of Technology
• 10 systems have received Type Approval certificates
• 14 have received IMO final approval
• a further 3 are expecting final approval at MEPC 60
• 8 others have basic approval
• A further 7 may receive basic approval at MEPC 60
It is important to note that, not all systems are required to follow the IMO basic and final approval path to Type Approval as outlined in Procedure G9. If the system does not utilize an active substance as a biocide, a separate procedure for testing and verification according to Procedure G8 is undertaken. That said, it is expected that several systems are in the process of obtaining Type Approval in this manner as well, adding to those mentioned above.
Paper published with permission.
IST Management Software for Check Valves, MOVs, and AOVs
Authors: Estep Neal , Sicking Ryan 
Published: May 2019

This paper focuses on Inservice Testing (IST) software, in particular software developed by Kalsi Engineering, Inc. (KEI), to assist plant personnel in implementing IST requirements. The requirements in Mandatory Appendices II, III, and IV to ASME’s Operation and Maintenance of Nuclear Power Plants (OM Code) for check-valve condition monitoring, motor-operated valve (MOV) inservice testing, and air-operated valve (AOV) inservice testing, respectively, are identified. Each requirement in Appendix II is mapped to specific functionality in the condition-monitoring software. In addition, methods used in the design-analysis software for design-basis verification, trending of diagnostic test data, and functional margin determination to satisfy the requirements in Appendices III and IV are also described and mapped to specific requirements.
Conditioning-monitoring management database software is designed to comprehensively meet the documentation and trending requirements of Appendix II. The software addresses all program aspects, including valve grouping, program analysis, development of optimization and performance-improvement activities, evaluation of test and inspection intervals, trending and feedback, and corrective maintenance. To achieve this functionality, the condition-monitoring software includes check-valve design information, condition-monitoring activity setup and test history, trending of test parameters, a repository for miscellaneous data, and documentation of expert panel reviews. Database query tools and hard-copy reports are also provided.
The benefit is that this software provides a standardized, central collection point from which plant engineers can effectively manage their Appendix II program without having to develop and maintain a multitude of non-standardized personal spreadsheets or databases. In addition, the software assists in succession planning and minimizes the transition time for new check-valve program owners.
The MOV and AOV design-analysis software determines initial design margin and then uses field test data and associated uncertainties to determine actual setup functional margin. In addition, trending of diagnostic in-service test data is performed to verify that design values are conservative and that the inservice test intervals are appropriate based on projected degradation rate. The benefit of this software is that it assists utility engineers in satisfying the design-basis verification, preservice, and inservice testing requirements in Appendices III and IV in a standardized and comprehensive platform.
Paper published with permission.
The Effects of 10%, 20%, and 30% Velocity Loss Thresholds on Kinetic, Kinematic, and Repetition Characteristics During the Barbell Back Squat
Authors: Weakley Jonathon , Ramirez-Lopez Carlos , McLaren Shaun , Dalton-Barron Nick , Weaving Dan , Jones Ben , Till Kevin , Banyard Harry 
Published: May 2019

Purpose: Prescribing resistance training using velocity loss thresholds can enhance exercise quality by mitigating neuromuscular fatigue. As little is known regarding performance during these protocols, we aimed to assess the effects of 10%, 20%, and 30% velocity loss thresholds on kinetic, kinematic, and repetition characteristics in the free-weight back squat. Methods: Using a randomized crossover design, 16 resistance-trained men were recruited to complete 5 sets of the barbell back squat. Lifting load corresponded to a mean concentric velocity (MV) of ∼0.70 m·s−1 (115 [22] kg). Repetitions were performed until a 10%, 20%, or 30% MV loss was attained. Results: Set MV and power output were substantially higher in the 10% protocol (0.66 m·s−1 and 1341 W, respectively), followed by the 20% (0.62 m·s−1 and 1246 W) and 30% protocols (0.59 m·s−1 and 1179 W). There were no substantial changes in MV (−0.01 to −0.02 m·s−1) or power output (−14 to −55 W) across the 5 sets for all protocols, and individual differences in these changes were typically trivial to small. Mean set repetitions were substantially higher in the 30% protocol (7.8), followed by the 20% (6.4) and 10% protocols (4.2). There were small to moderate reductions in repetitions across the 5 sets during all protocols (−39%, −31%, −19%, respectively), and individual differences in these changes were small to very large. Conclusions: Velocity training prescription maintains kinetic and kinematic output across multiple sets of the back squat, with repetition ranges being highly variable. Our findings, therefore, challenge traditional resistance training paradigms (repetition based) and add support to a velocity-based approach.
Mesozoic evolution of the eastern Pamir
Authors: Imrecke Daniel B. , Robinson Alexander C. , Owen Lewis A. , Chen Jie , Schoenbohm Lindsay M. , Hedrick Kathryn A. , Lapen Thomas J. , Li Wenqiao , Yuan Zhaode 
Published: May 2019

AbstractWe present field and analytical results from the Tashkurgan and Waqia valleys in the southeastern Pamir that shed new light on the tectonic evolution and terrane architecture of the region. Field mapping of metasedimentary and igneous units along the Tashkurgan and Waqia valleys in the Southeast Pamir, integrated with metamorphic petrology, garnet-biotite thermometry, and zircon U/Pb isotopic analysis, help identify major structures and terrane boundaries in the region, as well as compare structural units across the Miocene Muztaghata gneiss dome. South of the Muztaghata dome, the gently northwest-plunging synformal Torbashi thrust klippe juxtaposes amphibolite facies Triassic Karakul-Mazar terrane schist and gneiss structurally above (1) greenschist facies Triassic Karakul-Mazar terrane metasedimentary rock in the north, and (2) lower-amphibolite facies schist in the south that are interpreted to be Gondwanan-derived crust (Central or South Pamir terrane). Farther south, the Rouluke thrust fault imbricates the Gondwanan crust, placing early Paleozoic schists over Permian marble and slate. Exposure of the Torbashi thrust sheet terminates in the southeast, and with it the surface exposure of the Triassic Karakul-Mazar terrane, leaving the Paleozoic Kunlun terrane juxtaposed directly against Gondwanan terrane crust. Based on lithologic and isotopic similarities of units north and south of the Muztaghata gneiss dome, we document the existence of a regionally extensive thrust nappe that stretched across the northern and eastern Pamir, prior to being cut by Miocene exhumation of the Muztaghata dome. The thrust nappe links the Torbashi thrust in the southeast Pamir with the Tanymas thrust in the northern Pamir, and documents regionally extensive exposure of lithologically continuous units across the northeast Pamir. While timing of emplacement of the Torbashi thrust klippe and displacement on the Rouluke fault to the south is not well constrained, we interpret shortening to be Cretaceous in age based on previously published cooling ages. However, a component of Cenozoic shortening cannot be ruled out.A key observation from our mapping results is that the surface exposures of the Karakul–Mazar–Songpan Ganzi terrane are not continuous between western Tibet and the Pamir, which indicates tectonic and/or erosional removal, likely sometime in the Mesozoic. Furthermore, our documentation of the Jinsha suture in the southeast Pamir on the eastern side of the Karakoram fault shows deflections of terranes across the Himalayan-Tibetan orogen were not primarily accommodated along discrete, large displacement faults (>400 km) faults. Instead, oroclinal bending of the northern Pamir, and dextral shear along the Pamir margins, may be largely responsible for the northward deflection of terranes.
Effect of spontaneous breathing on umbilical venous blood flow and placental transfusion during delayed cord clamping in preterm lambs
Authors: Brouwer Emma , te Pas Arjan B , Polglase Graeme R , McGillick Erin V , Böhringer Stefan , Crossley Kelly J , Rodgers Karyn , Blank Douglas , Yamaoka Shigeo , Gill Andrew William , Kluckow Martin , Hooper Stuart B 
Published: May 2019

IntroductionDuring delayed umbilical cord clamping, the factors underpinning placental transfusion remain unknown. We hypothesised that reductions in thoracic pressure during inspiration would enhance placental transfusion in spontaneously breathing preterm lambs.ObjectiveInvestigate the effect of spontaneous breathing on umbilical venous flow and body weight in preterm lambs.MethodsPregnant sheep were instrumented at 132–133 days gestational age to measure fetal common umbilical venous, pulmonary and cerebral blood flows as well as arterial and intrapleural (IP) pressures. At delivery, doxapram and caffeine were administered to promote breathing. Lamb body weights were measured continuously and breathing was assessed by IP pressure changes.ResultsIn 6 lambs, 491 out of 1117 breaths were analysed for change in body weight. Weight increased in 46.6% and decreased in 47.5% of breaths. An overall mean increase of 0.02±2.5 g per breath was calculated, and no net placental transfusion was observed prior to cord clamping (median difference in body weight 52.3 [−54.9–166.1] g, p=0.418). Umbilical venous (UV) flow transiently decreased with each inspiration, and in some cases ceased, before UV flow normalised during expiration. The reduction in UV flow was positively correlated with the standardised reduction in (IP) pressure, increasing by 109 mL/min for every SD reduction in IP pressure. Thus, the reduction in UV flow was closely related to inspiratory depth.ConclusionsSpontaneous breathing had no net effect on body weight in preterm lambs at birth. UV blood flow decreased as inspiratory effort increased, possibly due to constriction of the inferior vena cava caused by diaphragmatic contraction, as previously observed in human fetuses.
Incidence of disorders of sexual development in neonates in Ghana: prospective study
Authors: Ameyaw Emmanuel , Asafo-Agyei Serwah Bonsu , Hughes Ieuan A , Zacharin Margaret , Chanoine Jean-Pierre 
Published: May 2019

ObjectiveThe incidence of disorders of sexual development (DSD) is unknown in sub-Saharan Africa. We describe the characteristics and incidence of DSD in a cohort of infants born in Ghana.DesignTrained research assistants performed systematic genital examination at birth. All infants with suspected abnormal genitalia were further examined by a paediatric endocrinologist.SettingKomfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana.PatientsConsecutive infants born in a single centre over a 1-year period (May 2014 to April 2015).Main outcome measuresIncidence of DSD. Micropenis was defined as a stretched length <2.1 cm and clitoromegaly as a clitoral length >8.6 mm.ResultsWe examined 9255 infants (93% of all live births) within 72 hours of birth. Twenty-six neonates had a DSD. Nineteen infants had DSD without genital ambiguity: isolated micropenis (n=2), hypospadias (n=7), cryptorchidism (n=4) and clitoromegaly (n=6). Seven infants had DSD with ambiguity: clitoromegaly with a uterus on ultrasound and elevated 17-hydoxyprogesterone, suggesting XX DSD due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)(n=4) and micropenis, hypospadias and gonads in a bifid scrotum or in the inguinal region, consistent with XY DSD (n=3).ConclusionThe incidence of atypical genitalia was 28/10,000 (95% CI 17/10 000 to 39/10 000) live births. The incidence of CAH was 4.3/10 000 (95% CI 1.2/10 000 to 11.1/10 000) and was strongly associated with consanguinity.
Association of habitual glucosamine use with risk of cardiovascular disease: prospective study in UK Biobank
Authors: Ma Hao , Li Xiang , Sun Dianjianyi , Zhou Tao , Ley Sylvia H , Gustat Jeanette , Heianza Yoriko , Qi Lu 
Published: May 2019

Abstract

Objective
To prospectively assess the association of habitual glucosamine use with risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events.

Design
Prospective cohort study.

Setting
UK Biobank.

Participants
466 039 participants without CVD at baseline who completed a questionnaire on supplement use, which included glucosamine. These participants were enrolled from 2006 to 2010 and were followed up to 2016.

Main outcome measures
Incident CVD events, including CVD death, coronary heart disease, and stroke.

Results
During a median follow-up of seven years, there were 10 204 incident CVD events, 3060 CVD deaths, 5745 coronary heart disease events, and 3263 stroke events. After adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, race, lifestyle factors, dietary intakes, drug use, and other supplement use, glucosamine use was associated with a significantly lower risk of total CVD events (hazard ratio 0.85, 95% confidence interval 0.80 to 0.90), CVD death (0.78, 0.70 to 0.87), coronary heart disease (0.82, 0.76 to 0.88), and stroke (0.91, 0.83 to 1.00).

Conclusion
Habitual use of glucosamine supplement to relieve osteoarthritis pain might also be related to lower risks of CVD events.
Self-sampling for human papillomavirus (HPV) testing: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yeh Ping Teresa , Kennedy Caitlin E , de Vuyst Hugo , Narasimhan Manjulaa 
Published: May 2019

IntroductionHuman papillomavirus (HPV) self-sampling test kits may increase screening for and early detection of cervical cancer and reduce its burden globally. To inform WHO self-care guidelines, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of HPV self-sampling among adult women on cervical (pre-)cancer screening uptake, screening frequency, social harms/adverse events and linkage to clinical assessment/treatment.MethodsThe included studies compared women using cervical cancer screening services with HPV self-sampling with women using standard of care, measured at least one outcome, and were published in a peer-reviewed journal. We searched PubMed, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CNIAHL), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS) and Embase through October 2018. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and the Evidence Project tool for non-randomised studies. Meta-analysis was conducted using random-effects models to generate pooled estimates of relative risk (RR).Results33 studies in 34 articles with 369 017 total participants met the inclusion criteria: 29 RCTs and 4 observational studies. All studies examined HPV self-sampling; comparison groups were standard of care (eg, Pap smear, visual inspection with acetic acid, clinician-collected HPV testing). 93% of participants were from high-income countries. All 33 studies measured cervical cancer screening uptake. Meta-analysis found greater screening uptake among HPV self-sampling participants compared with control (RR: 2.13, 95% CI 1.89 to 2.40). Effect size varied by HPV test kit dissemination method, whether mailed directly to home (RR: 2.27, 95% CI 1.89 to 2.71), offered door-to-door (RR: 2.37, 95% CI 1.12 to 5.03) or requested on demand (RR: 1.28, 95% CI 0.90 to 1.82). Meta-analysis showed no statistically significant difference in linkage to clinical assessment/treatment between arms (RR: 1.12, 95% CI 0.80 to 1.57). No studies measured screening frequency or social harms/adverse events.ConclusionA growing evidence base, mainly from high-income countries and with significant heterogeneity, suggests HPV self-sampling can increase cervical cancer screening uptake compared with standard of care, with a marginal effect on linkage to clinical assessment/treatment.Systematic review registration numberPROSPERO CRD42018114871.
Transparency and accuracy in funding investigator-initiated clinical trials: a systematic search in clinical trials databases
Authors: Madeira Catarina , Santos Francisco , Kubiak Christine , Demotes Jacques , Monteiro Emília Carreira 
Published: May 2019

ObjectivesThis study aims to identify the sources of funding for investigator-initiated clinical trials (IICTs) in Portugal, and to recommend ways to improve the quality of information collected from clinical trial databases about funding.Design and methodsA systematic search of trial registrations over the last 13 years—using the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (WHO-ICTRP) and four clinical trials registries (CTRs)—was carried out to identify IICTs in Portugal, used as a case study. Data from the databases were compared with data contained in publications to evaluate the consistency of information on funding sources. The term ‘database’ is used in this study to refer to both the WHO-ICTRP and the CTRs. When mentioned separately, the WHO-ICTRP is referred to as a ‘platform’, while the CTRs are referred to as ‘registries’.OutcomeSuggestions to improve clinical trials databases to clearly identify the funding sources and data ownership in IICTs.ResultsTwo hundred and eighty-two IICTs were identified in Portugal. Twenty per cent of trials were supported by industry with unclear information on the ownership of the results. Inaccuracy was found in the information about sponsors and funders. The information about funding in all resulting publications (77 out of 133 completed studies) was also inconsistent between databases in 35 out of 77 (45%) of the studies. Notably, 23% of the trials funded by non-profit organisations (n=226) received funds from international and/or national funding agencies.ConclusionsIdentification of IICT funding and ownership of results is unclear in the databases used for this study, which may lead to misunderstandings about the independence of the obtained results. Transparency and accuracy are desirable so that public decision makers and strategic partners can accurately evaluate national performance in this particular type of clinical research.