bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Salbutamol modifies the neuromuscular junction in a mouse model of ColQ myasthenic syndrome
Authors: McMacken Grace M , Spendiff Sally , Whittaker Roger G , O’Connor Emily , Howarth Rachel M , Boczonadi Veronika , Horvath Rita , Slater Clarke R , Lochmüller Hanns 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
The β-adrenergic agonists salbutamol and ephedrine have proven to be effective as therapies for human disorders of the neuromuscular junction, in particular many subsets of congenital myasthenic syndromes. However, the mechanisms underlying this clinical benefit are unknown and improved understanding of the effect of adrenergic signalling on the neuromuscular junction is essential to facilitate the development of more targeted therapies. Here, we investigated the effect of salbutamol treatment on the neuromuscular junction in the ColQ deficient mouse, a model of end-plate acetylcholinesterase deficiency. ColQ−/− mice received 7 weeks of daily salbutamol injection, and the effect on muscle strength and neuromuscular junction morphology was analysed. We show that salbutamol leads to a gradual improvement in muscle strength in ColQ−/− mice. In addition, the neuromuscular junctions of salbutamol treated mice showed significant improvements in several postsynaptic morphological defects, including increased synaptic area, acetylcholine receptor area and density, and extent of postjunctional folds. These changes occurred without alterations in skeletal muscle fibre size or type. These findings suggest that β-adrenergic agonists lead to functional benefit in the ColQ−/− mouse and to long-term structural changes at the neuromuscular junction. These effects are primarily at the postsynaptic membrane and may lead to enhanced neuromuscular transmission.
MBNL1 overexpression is not sufficient to rescue the phenotypes in a mouse model of RNA toxicity
Authors: Yadava Ramesh S , Kim Yun K , Mandal Mahua , Mahadevan Karunasai , Gladman Jordan T , Yu Qing , Mahadevan Mani S 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is caused by an expanded (CTG)n tract in the 3′UTR of the DM protein kinase (DMPK) gene. The RNA transcripts produced from the expanded allele sequester or alter the function of RNA-binding proteins (MBNL1, CUGBP1, etc.). The sequestration of MBNL1 results in RNA-splicing defects that contribute to disease. Overexpression of MBNL1 in skeletal muscle has been shown to rescue some of the DM1 features in a mouse model and has been proposed as a therapeutic strategy for DM1. Here, we sought to confirm if overexpression of MBNL1 rescues the phenotypes in a different mouse model of RNA toxicity. Using an inducible mouse model of RNA toxicity in which expression of the mutant DMPK 3′UTR results in RNA foci formation, MBNL1 sequestration, splicing defects, myotonia and cardiac conduction defects, we find that MBNL1 overexpression did not rescue skeletal muscle function nor beneficially affect cardiac conduction. Surprisingly, MBNL1 overexpression also did not rescue myotonia, though variable rescue of Clcn1 splicing and other splicing defects was seen. Additionally, contrary to the previous study, we found evidence for increased muscle histopathology with MBNL1 overexpression. Overall, we did not find evidence for beneficial effects from overexpression of MBNL1 as a means to correct RNA toxicity mediated by mRNAs containing an expanded DMPK 3′UTR.
Avoiding misinterpretation of climate change projections of fish catches
Authors: Barange Manuel 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
It is common to assume that climate change impacts on future fish catches, relative to current levels of catch, are directly proportional to changes in the capacity of the ocean to produce fish. However, this would only be the case if production was optimized, which is not the case, and continues to do so in the future, which we do not know. It is more appropriate to see changes in the ocean’s productive capacity as providing an upper limit to future fish catches, but whether these catches are an increase or a decrease from present catch levels depends on management decisions now and in the future, rather than on the ocean’s productive capacity alone. Disregarding the role of management in driving current and future catches is not only incorrect but it also removes any encouragement for management agencies to improve performance. It is concluded that climate change provides one of the most powerful arguments to improve fisheries—and environmental—management, and thus fisheries sustainability globally.
The Lung Mucosa Environment in the Elderly Increases Host Susceptibility to Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Moliva Juan I , Duncan Michael A , Olmo-Fontánez Angélica , Akhter Anwari , Arnett Eusondia , Scordo Julia M , Ault Russell , Sasindran Smitha J , Azad Abul K , Montoya Maria J , Reinhold-Larsson Nicole , Rajaram Murugesan V S , Merrit Robert E , Lafuse William P , Zhang Liwen , Wang Shu-Hua , Beamer Gillian , Wang Yufeng , Proud Kevin , Maselli Diego Jose , Peters Jay , Weintraub Susan T , Turner Joanne , Schlesinger Larry S , Torrelles Jordi B 
Published: March 2019

AbstractAs we age, there is an increased risk for the development of tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection. Few studies consider that age-associated changes in the alveolar lining fluid (ALF) may increase susceptibility by altering soluble mediators of innate immunity. We assessed the impact of adult or elderly human ALF during Mtb infection in vitro and in vivo. We identified amplification of pro-oxidative and proinflammatory pathways in elderly ALF and decreased binding capability of surfactant-associated surfactant protein A (SP-A) and surfactant protein D (SP-D) to Mtb. Human macrophages infected with elderly ALF–exposed Mtb had reduced control and fewer phagosome–lysosome fusion events, which was reversed when elderly ALF was replenished with functional SP-A/SP-D. In vivo, exposure to elderly ALF exacerbated Mtb infection in young mice. Our studies demonstrate how the pulmonary environment changes as we age and suggest that Mtb may benefit from declining host defenses in the lung mucosa of the elderly.
Development and multicentre validation of an agar-based screening method for echinocandin susceptibility testing of Aspergillus species
Authors: Meletiadis Joseph , Siopi Maria , Kanioura Lamprini , Jørgensen Karin Meinike , Perlin David S , Mouton Johan W , Arendrup Maiken Cavling 
Published: March 2019

Abstract

Background
Reference antifungal susceptibility testing of echinocandins against Aspergillus spp. relies on the determination of the minimal effective concentration, which is difficult to perform, time-consuming and subjective. We developed and evaluated in a multicentre study an agar-based screening method for echinocandin susceptibility testing of Aspergillus spp.

Methods
Forty WT isolates [10 Aspergillus fumigatus species complex (SC), 10 Aspergillus flavus SC, 10 Aspergillus terreus SC and 10 Aspergillus niger SC] and 4 non-WT A. fumigatus isolates with or without known fks alterations were used. The optimal test conditions and stability over time were evaluated in preliminary studies monitoring colony growth. Twenty-microlitre aliquots of 1–2 McFarland inocula in 0.1% Tween 20 aqueous solution were added to each well and plates were incubated for 24/48 h at 35 ± 2°C. Subsequently, all isolates were tested blindly at three centres using four-well screening plates, containing anidulafungin, caspofungin, micafungin or no antifungal in each of the four wells, respectively.

Results
WT isolates produced fluffy colonies on drug-free agar wells only. The non-WT isolates produced fluffy colonies on echinocandin-containing and control agar wells. Using the echinocandin concentrations of 0.25 mg/L anidulafungin, 1 mg/L caspofungin and 0.125 mg/L micafungin, and the compact (non-fluffy) versus fluffy colony morphology endpoint, all centres successfully discriminated non-WT and WT strains even after 24 h. Among the three echinocandins, anidulafungin produced the clearest endpoints.

Conclusions
The four-well plate agar method is suitable for echinocandin susceptibility screening of Aspergillus spp. and can be used to detect echinocandin non-WT isolates.
Blessings in the Phoenician and Luwian Inscriptions of Azatiwada
Authors: Schade Aaron 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
This article will discuss the volitive mood of the blessings found in the Phoenician and Luwian inscriptions of Azatiwada. Within the framework of a linguistic approach to the text, I will examine textlevel syntax, genre and influences between the Phoenician/Luwian bilingual inscriptions within their cultic context. All of these components help establish the volitive mood of the blessings within the inscriptions. It will be demonstrated that we are witnessing blessings beyond the parameters of the indicative mood of past events. These elements are established by the combination of the factors listed above and contribute to the composition and shaping of the texts as a whole, all of which maintain an ongoing cultic function.
A Novel Arterial Line Simulation Model
Authors: Walsh Ryan , Black Chelsie , Krieger Joshua 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
With damage control surgery and resuscitation teams, the military is bringing surgical as well as intensive care far forward to areas where mass casualty events are an ever-present threat. One procedure that the team is required to be proficient in is arterial line insertion and transducing. To our knowledge, there are no previously described field arterial line simulation models. We present an arterial line insertion and transducer simulator created using medium resistance Thera-band tubing, saline, Coban, and a SAM splint. Ten deployed members of a damage control surgical team received 30 minutes of instruction on how to properly insert an arterial line and how to set up the transducer equipment. All participants were able to show proficiency in radial artery line insertion and transducer setup despite 8 of the 10 participants having never inserted or setup an arterial line. We describe, to our knowledge, the first arterial line insertion and transducing model utilizing only items found in the deployed environment. This model can be easily made and utilized to train medical personnel of all skill levels to augment the capabilities of medical units in areas where mass casualty events are likely.
Acellular Fish Skin Grafts for Management of Split Thickness Donor Sites and Partial Thickness Burns: A Case Series
Authors: Alam Khurshid , Jeffery Steven L A 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
When treating large burns, autologous skin availability becomes a problem and burn surgeons rely heavily on allogenic and xenogeneic skin for temporary coverage after excision. Application of cadaveric and pig skin grafts carries a risk of auto-immune response and risk of viral and bacterial diseases transmission, and there are many cultural and religious rejections for use of porcine grafts. There has recently become available an alternative resource of xenograft using acellular fish skin (KerecisTM Omega3 Burn). This has been described as providing an effective, safe, efficient skin substitute, free of the risk of transmission of viral disease, and auto-immune reaction risk.

Methods
Ten patients having split-thickness skin grafting for burn injury were treated with the fish skin xenografts.

Results
There were no adverse reactions noted on the use of the fish skin grafts. No patient had any reaction to the fish skin and there was a zero incidence of infection. The handling of the fish skin was excellent, a robust and pliable xenograft that was easy to apply.
The quality of donor site healing was judged to be good in all cases. Both the analgesic effect noted and the relatively short average times until 100% re-epithelialization are promising. We also illustrate two cases where the dressing was used to treat superficial burns.
Portable System for Neuro-Optical Diagnostics Using Virtual Reality Display
Authors: Versek Craig , Rissmiller Armen , Tran Anthony , Taya Munish , Chowdhury Kaushik , Bex Peter , Sridhar Srinivas 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
A new product prototype system for diagnosing vision and neurological disorders, called NeuroDotVR, is described herein: this system utilizes a novel wireless NeuroDot brain sensor [Versek C et al. J Neural Eng. 2018 Aug; 15(4):046027] that quantitatively measures visual evoked potentials and fields resulting from custom visual stimuli displayed on a smartphone housed in a virtual reality headset. The NeuroDot brain sensor is unique in that it can be operated both in regular electroencephalography mode, as well as a new electric field encephalography mode, which yields improvements in signal sensitivity and provides new diagnostic information. Steady state and transient visual evoked potentials and fields using reversing checkerboard stimuli are presented with case studies in amblyopia, glaucoma, and dark adaptation. These preliminary data sets highlight potential clinical applications that may be pursued in further product development and scientific studies.
Crossover Assessment of Intraoral and Cuffed Ventilation by Emergency Responders
Authors: McCrory Bernadette , Lowndes Bethany R , Thompson Darcy L , Wadman Michael C , Sztajnkrycer Matthew D , Walker Richard , Lomneth Carol S , Hallbeck M Susan 
Published: March 2019

AbstractObjectivesA cuffed bag valve mask (BVM) is the most common device used by emergency medical responders to ventilate patients. The BVM can be difficult for users to seal around the patient’s mouth and nose. An intraoral mask (IOM) with snorkel-like design may facilitate quicker and better ventilation particularly under austere conditions.MethodsBoth a BVM and IOM were utilized by 27 trained emergency medical technicians and paramedics to ventilate a lightly embalmed cadaver. Ventilation efficacy, workload, and usability were assessed for both devices across four study conditions.ResultsThe IOM was superior to the BVM in delivered tidal volume ratio (measure of leak, p &lt; 0.03) and minute ventilation (p &lt; 0.0001). Workload, ergonomic and usability assessments indicated that the IOM facilitated gripping through the reduced hand interface size (p &lt; 0.01), decreased user effort (p &lt; 0.001), and reduced upper limb workload (p = 0.0088).ConclusionsIn the assessed model, the IOM represented a better choice for airway management than the standard cuffed BVM. An emergency medical device that is intuitive, efficacious and less demanding has the potential to reduce responder stress and improve resuscitation efforts, especially during austere rescue and patient transport.
Mental Health Care for Service Members and Their Families Across the Globe
Authors: McGraw Kate , Adler Jamie , Andersen Søren B , Bailey Suzanne , Bennett Clare , Blasko Kelly , Blatt Andrew D , Greenberg Neil , Hodson Stephanie , Pittman Demietrice , Ruscio Aimee C , Stoltenberg Christian D G , Tate Karyn E , Kuruganti Kanchana 
Published: March 2019

AbstractThe U.S. Defense Department partnered with the International Initiative for Mental Health Leadership on effective leadership and operational practices for delivery of mental health (MH) as well as addiction services throughout the world for Service Members (SM) and beneficiaries. A Military Issues Work Group (MIWG) was established in 2011 to focus on challenges experienced by military SM and beneficiaries among countries. The MIWG found common concerns related to MH care delivery to rural and remote beneficiaries. Gaps in access to care were identified and prioritized to explore. This led to better collaboration and understanding of telemental health (TMH) practices and technology applications (apps) which increase access to care for rural and remote SMs and beneficiaries. An assessment of the number of SMs and dependents distant from MH care services in the USA was conducted, as well as an environmental scan for psychological health-focused mobile apps and TMH services geared toward SM, veterans, and beneficiaries. The MIWG is developing a compendium of existing military TMH programs and apps that address MH concerns and extant literature on use of technology to extend global access to care for military members and their families across the world.
I’m Wearing My Hearing Protection – Am I Still At Risk for Hearing Loss? Lurking Ototoxins in the Military Environment
Authors: Hammill Tanisha L , McKenna Elizabeth , Hecht Quintin , Buchanan Kari , Pryor Nina 
Published: March 2019

AbstractObjectiveInformation is summarized from the overall body of published literature regarding ototoxic chemicals encountered outside of clinical exposures, largely in occupational settings. While summarizing the most common non-pharmaceutical ototoxins, this review provides clinically relevant information and recommendations such that hearing health professionals may adopt a more comprehensive and appropriate diagnostic case history, test battery, documentation scheme, and education delivery.MethodsSolvents, metals, and asphyxiants literature was reviewed using PubMed, national and international agency websites, and communications with known ototoxicity experts.ResultsInitial intentions to summarize the existing programs for occupational ototoxicity monitoring fell short when it was discovered that such programs have not yet formalized across the major oversight agencies in the United States. Instead, recommended guidance documents and fact sheets, which highlight existing occupational exposure limits and suggest monitoring and education are discussed.ConclusionsWhile evidence in humans is limited, potentially ototoxic substances are worthy of improved surveillance and further research to understand their ototoxic mechanisms, effects, and possible mitigation strategies. A triad approach of monitoring, protecting, and educating is recommended for effective prevention of hearing loss: the Department of Defense Hearing Center of Excellence’s Comprehensive Hearing Health Program model employs such an approach.
Evaluation of Aircrew Low-Intensity Threat Laser Eye Protection
Authors: Reddix Michael D , Funke Matthew E , Kinney Micah J , Bradley John L , Irvin Greg , Rea Everett J , Kunkle Christina K , McCann Mary B , Gomez Jacqueline 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
Prototype low-intensity threat laser eye protection (LIT-LEP) spectacles were evaluated for US Coast Guard (USCG) cockpits and night vision goggle compatibility. The impetus for interest in aviation LIT-LEP is driven in part by the fact that easily accessible 0.5–2.0 W high-power laser pointers exceed safety standards for direct on-axis viewing. A repeated-measures experimental design was used to assess LIT-LEP performance relative to a no-LEP control for the following tasks: Near- and far contrast acuity, night vision goggle far-contrast acuity, emissive and non-emissive light source color-vision screening, and USCG multifunctional display color symbol discrimination reaction time and accuracy. Near- and far-contrast acuity results demonstrated good LIT-LEP performance for typical in- and out-of-cockpit lighting conditions. Night vision goggle performance suffered marginally at only one contrast level (85%; 20/30 acuity line). Color vision test results showed good color balance in that S-, M-, and L-cone performance did not demonstrate a clinical diagnostic color defect for emissive or non-emissive light sources when wearing LIT-LEP. Color symbol discrimination reaction-time-task results based on inverse efficiency scores revealed that some non-primary flight display colors exhibited a combination of slower speed and decreased accuracy. The findings will contribute to an acquisition decision as well as guide future LEP designs.
Perceptions of High-Risk Situations for Sexual Assault: Gender Differences in the U.S. Air Force
Authors: Silber Ashley Olivia , Lane Marian E , Morgan Jessica Kelley , Charm Samantha , Tharp Andra , Brown Mark 
Published: March 2019

AbstractThis study explored U.S. Air Force service members’ perceptions of high-risk situations for sexual assault victimization. Qualitative data were collected from 52 active duty Airmen, including sexual assault survivors and general population officers and enlisted personnel. Participants were recruited through posted flyers, base-wide e-mail messages, and referrals from the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator’s office. Content analysis was used to summarize participants’ opinions and experiences. High-risk situations for all Airmen included excessive alcohol use, specific physical settings, and situations associated with work assignments. High-risk situations identified frequently by male and female sexual assault survivors and female (but not male) general population Airmen included power imbalance; isolation in the workplace and social settings; and youth, inexperience, and unfamiliarity with the military environment. Female Airmen identified workplaces with a predominance of men or being one of very few women in a group as a high-risk situation for sexual assault victimization. And female sexual assault survivors identified implicit but unwarranted trust between Airmen as a high-risk situation. This study provides new insight into gender differences in high-risk situations for sexual assault victimization, and the data can help policymakers better prevent sexual assault by appropriately tailoring and timing sexual assault risk reduction training.
Improving Relative Bioavailability of Oral Imidazolidinedione by Reducing Particle Size Using Homogenization and Ultra-Sonication
Authors: Zeng Qiang , Xie Lisa , Zhang Jing , Vuong Chau , Potter Brittney , Aylor Samantha , Sousa Jason , Black Chad , Li Qigui 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
Particle size is an important determinant of gastrointestinal absorption of compounds administrated orally. The present study evaluates the effect of a reduction in particle size assessed by homogenization, sonication, and homogenization plus sonication on the bioavailability of imidazolidinedione (IZ), an antimalarial compound with known causal prophylactic activity and radical cure of relapsing malaria. Formulations were administrated intragastrically to mice, and blood samples were collected for LC-MS/MS analysis. The homogenization method manually decreased particle size with minimal variance, resulting in a mean particle diameter of 42.22 μm, whereas the probe sonication method evenly distributed pulses of sound to break apart particles, resulting in a mean diameter of 1.50 μm. Homogenization plus sonication resulted in a mean particle diameter of 1.44 μm, which was similar to that of the sonication method alone. The compound suspensions did not show a significant difference in mean particle size between the different vehicles. The sonically engineered microparticle delivers high sonic energy to the suspension leads to faster breakdown and stabilizing of the micronized particles when compared with homogenizer. The bioavailability of the small particle IZ formulation was 100%, compared to the 55.79% relative bioavailability of IZ with larger particle size. These initial data clearly show that a reduction in particle size of orally administered IZ with probe sonication could significantly increase bioavailability in rodent animals that is affected by a high first-pass effect.