bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bleeding assessment in haemophilia carriers—High rates of bleeding after surgical abortion and intrauterine device placement: A multicentre study in China
Authors: Li Sen , Fang Yunhai , Li Li , Lee Adrienne , Poon Man‐Chiu , Zhao Yongqiang , Zhang Xinsheng , Wang Shujie , Cheng Yan , Li Kuixing
Published: November 2019

Introduction

An increased bleeding tendency has been shown in female haemophilia carriers compared to healthy females. Bleeding assessment tools (BATs) have mainly been performed in western cultures. It is unclear how they perform in populations with different healthcare, health/wellness concepts and awareness, as well as family planning practices.

Aim

To (a) describe and compare the bleeding symptoms in carriers with healthy females, particularly for bleeding after surgical abortion and intrauterine device (IUD) placement which are performed frequently for family planning in China; (b) quantify scores of International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis Bleeding Assessment Tool (ISTH‐BAT) and Chinese‐BAT (C‐BAT) developed to include surgical abortion and IUD placement as separate categories in Chinese haemophilia carriers; (c) correlate bleeding scores (BS) with factor levels.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre, cross‐sectional study on obligate haemophilia carriers and healthy controls using ISTH‐BAT and C‐BAT.

Results

We enrolled 125 haemophilia carriers and 106 controls. Carriers, compared to controls, had significantly higher median BS (3 vs 1 by both ISTH‐BAT and C‐BAT) and lower factor level (63.5 vs 101.8 IU/dL). Bleeding after surgical abortion and IUD placement was significantly associated with carrier status. Bleeding scores from neither ISTH‐BAT nor C‐BAT showed significant correlation with factor levels.

Conclusion

Haemophilia carriers in China experienced abnormal bleeding. Unique to the Chinese carriers is significant bleeding after surgical abortion (3rd highest incidence of bleeding symptom) and IUD placement (4th highest). However, both ISTH‐BAT and C‐BAT exhibited no correlation between BS and factor levels in this population and neither could identify carriers with low factor level (of <50 IU/dL).
Revealing the secret life of skin ‐ with the microbiome you never walk alone
Authors: Sfriso R. , Egert M. , Gempeler M. , Voegeli R. , Campiche R.
Published: November 2019

The human skin microbiome has recently become a focus for both the dermatological and cosmetic fields. Understanding the skin microbiota, that is the collection of vital microorganisms living on our skin, and how to maintain its delicate balance is an essential step to gain insight into the mechanisms responsible for healthy skin and its appearance. Imbalances in the skin microbiota composition (dysbiosis) are associated with several skin conditions, either pathological such as eczema, acne, allergies or dandruff or non‐pathological such as sensitive skin, irritated skin or dry skin. Therefore, the development of approaches which preserve or restore the natural, individual balance of the microbiota represents a novel target not only for dermatologists but also for skincare applications. This review gives an overview on the current knowledge on the skin microbiome, the currently available sampling and analysis techniques as well as a description of current approaches undertaken in the skincare segment to help restoring and balancing the structure and functionality of the skin microbiota.
Determining the quality of life and the sleep quality in patients with benign prostate hyperplasia
Authors: Kulakaç Nurşen , Sayılan Aylin Aydın
Published: November 2019

Research question

How is the quality of life and quality of sleep affected in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia?

Research problem

The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of life and quality of sleep in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and to identify the relationship between them. Nocturia is one of the main symptoms associated to BPH, causing significant sleep disturbances, including sleep interruptions. Such sleep interruptions may significantly impair quality of life.

Literature review

The assessment of nocturia and its impact on quality of life and sleep quality in patients living with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) has been poor in terms of clinical research; moreover, there is a lack of specific methods to assess this impact.

Methodology

The sample of this descriptive study consisted of all patients with the diagnosis of BPH who were admitted to the urology outpatient clinic of a state hospital in Turkey. The data were collected from 212 patients with BPH who accepted to participate in the study in January‐June 2018. All patients gave consent prior to inclusion in the study. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the WHOQOL‐BREF (World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale ‐ Brief Form) were used as the principle data collection tools. Percentage, t test, correlation and one‐way variance analysis test were used to evaluate the data.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 67.50 ± 8.89 years and 63.2% of them were first diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia 2.13 years ago. The lowest and the highest average scores that the patients obtained from the WHOQOL‐BREF were their social and environmental domains scores, respectively. In all, 20.2% of the patient were found to have poor sleep quality (global score ≥ 5). The results showed that there was a positive correlation between the mean scores of the sleep quality of the patients and their quality of life physical domain subscale. It was also found that there was a significant negative correlation between night urination and the sleep quality in BPH patients (P < .05).

Conclusions

It was determined that low quality of life in BPH patients is associated with low sleep quality. Personal characteristics, frequent night urination and working status are important determinants of the relationship between quality of life and sleep quality.
Learning from Workaround Practices: the Challenge of Enterprise System Implementations in Multinational Corporations
Authors: Malaurent Julien , Karanasios Stan
Published: November 2019

Based on a four‐year longitudinal case study of a French multinational corporation (MNC) this research explains how a global enterprise system, initially designed to provide greater control by headquarters across its MNC sites, led to the emergence of unexpected practices – known as workarounds – in its Chinese subsidiaries. Drawing on concepts from activity theory our findings provide greater theoretical understanding of workarounds in three ways. First, users are involved in collectively constructing and implementing workaround practices rather than simply being passive users or reduced to the dichotomous framing of ‘accepting’ or ‘rejecting’ an information system. Workarounds are not simple individual user improvizations but are collectively developed and become unofficial local rules. Second, workarounds are part of learning which goes beyond the view of workarounds as deviant and non‐compliant behavior. Third, learning activities are not restricted to users and their practices. Rather, as we demonstrate learning and evolution take place between the users, managers, processes and the system; that is, workarounds are not only a critical part of ‘getting work done’ but also an integral part of the institutionalization of an enterprise system.
The association between salt intake and arterial stiffness is influenced by a sex‐specific mediating effect through blood pressure in normotensive adults: The ELSA‐Brasil study
Authors: Baldo Marcelo P. , Brant Luisa C. C. , Cunha Roberto S. , Molina Maria del Carmen B. , Griep Rosane H. , Barreto Sandhi M. , Lotufo Paulo Andrade , Bensenor Isabela M. , Mill José G.
Published: November 2019

High salt intake is known to increase blood pressure (BP) and also to be associated with carotid‐femoral pulse wave velocity (cf‐PWV). However, recent data showed a sex‐specific pattern in the salt‐induced rise of BP. Thus, we aimed to investigate whether the association between salt intake and arterial stiffness also has a sex‐specific pattern. A total of 7755 normotensive participants with a validated 12‐h overnight urine collection in which daily salt intake was estimated were included. cf‐PWV, as well as clinical and anthropometric parameters, was measured. Salt intake positively correlated with cf‐PWV, in which the linear regression was steeper in women than in men (0.0199 ± 0.0045 vs 0.0326 ± 0.0052 m/s per gram of salt, P < .05). cf‐PWV increases over the salt quartiles in men and women. However, after adjustment for confounders, the association remained significant only for men. In the path analysis, the direct path (men: 0.048 P < .001, women: 0.029 P = .028) was higher in men while that mediated by SBP (men: 0.020 P < .001, women: 0.034 P < .001) was higher in women. We clearly demonstrated that high salt intake has a direct and independent effect increasing arterial stiffness regardless of sex. Also, the association between salt intake and arterial stiffness is more dependent on BP in normotensive women than it is in normotensive men. These results highlight the need for a sex‐specific approach in the evaluation of cardiovascular risk associated with dietary habits.
Fracture resistance of teeth restored with endocrowns: An in vitro study
Authors: Turkistani Ahmed A. , Dimashkieh Mohiddin , Rayyan Mohammed
Published: November 2019

Objective

The objective of this study is to evaluate the fracture resistance and failure mode of endodontically treated teeth restored with lithium disilicate endocrowns of different crown thicknesses.

Materials and Methods

A total of 30 endodontically treated permanent mandibular first molars were sectioned horizontally 2 mm above the highest point of the cemento‐enamel junction. The specimens were divided into three groups, and each group was restored with lithium disilicate (IPS e‐max press) endocrowns of different crown thicknesses (3, 4.5, and 6 mm, respectively). After cementation, specimens were stored in room temperature for 72 hours, followed by subjecting them to compressive strength testing until failure. The fracture loads and the failure mode were recorded. Statistically analysis was performed using one‐way analysis of variance.

Results

A statistically significant difference was found in the fracture resistance between the three groups with the highest fracture resistance in the 3 mm group, followed by the 4.5 mm group, and the least in the 6 mm group (P < .05). Most of the failures were accompanied with tooth fracture (90% in 3 mm group, 100% in 4.5 mm group, and 80% in 6 mm group).

Conclusions

Increasing the crown thickness of the endocrowns reduced the fracture resistance of restored teeth. Minimum fracture loads for all teeth restored with endocrowns were significantly higher than the maximum occlusal forces reported in the literature.

Clinical Significance

Fracture resistance and mode of failure of lithium disilicate (IPS e‐max press) endocrowns varies widely between crown thicknesses. Clinicians should be cautious with crown thickness for endocrown restorations.
Review of infectious agent occurrence in wild salmonids in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Jia Beibei , Delphino Marina K. V. C. , Awosile Babafela , Hewison Tim , Whittaker Patrick , Morrison Diane , Kamaitis Mykolas , Siah Ahmed , Milligan Barry , Johnson Stewart C. , Gardner Ian A.
Published: November 2019

Wild Pacific salmonids (WPS) are economically and culturally important to the Pacific North region. Most recently, some populations of WPS have been in decline. Of hypothesized factors contributing to the decline, infectious agents have been postulated to increase the risk of mortality in Pacific salmon. We present a literature review of both published journal and unpublished data to describe the distribution of infectious agents reported in wild Pacific salmonid populations in British Columbia (BC), Canada. We targeted 10 infectious agents, considered to potentially cause severe economic losses in Atlantic salmon or be of conservation concern for wild salmon in BC. The findings indicated a low frequency of infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus, piscine orthoreovirus, viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus, Aeromonas salmonicida, Renibacterium salmoninarum, Piscirickettsia salmonis and other Rickettsia‐like organisms, Yersinia ruckeri, Tenacibaculum maritimum and Moritella viscosa. No positive results were reported for infestations with Paramoeba perurans in peer‐reviewed papers and the DFO Fish Pathology Program database. This review synthesizes existing information, as well as gaps therein, that can support the design and implementation of a long‐term surveillance programme of infectious agents in wild salmonids in BC.
Response surface methodology can be used to predict photoinactivation of foodborne pathogens using Rose Bengal excited by 530 nm LED
Authors: dos Santos Adriele R. , da Silva Alex F. , de Freitas Camila F. , da Silva Marcos V. , Bona Evandro , Nakamura Celso V. , Hioka Noboru , Mikcha Jane M. G.
Published: November 2019

In this work, the photodynamic bactericidal effect of Rose Bengal (RB), combined with green LED light, against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella Typhimurium, was investigated. The interaction of RB concentration and illumination time was evaluated using a response surface methodology, and a second‐order polynomial empirical model was adjusted to the experimental data. The derived model predicted the combined influences of these factors on S. aureus and S. Typhimurium counts, in accordance with predictions and experimental observations (R2 = 0.8483 and p = .0013 for S. aureus; R2 = 0.9191 and p = .0001 for S. Typhimurium). Total inhibition of S. aureus and S. Typhimurium was observed when applying a light dose of 0.125 J cm−2 and 152.0 J cm−2, respectively. The treatments also showed loss of membrane integrity, morphological changes, and internal cell structural alterations. In sum, the polynomial model developed could provide accurate information on the combined influences of RB and green LED light in aPDT treatment and, that this combination was able to inactivate S. aureus and S. Typhimurium.
The effects of prosthetic status and dementia on the chewing efficiency of seniors in nursing homes
Authors: Klotz Anna‐Luisa , Ehret Judith , Zajac Melania , Schwindling Franz Sebastian , Hassel Alexander Jochen , Rammelsberg Peter , Zenthöfer Andreas
Published: November 2019

Background

The oral health of seniors in nursing homes is compromised. Furthermore, reduced chewing efficiency is described to be associated with reduced cognition. However, studies investigating how prosthetic status affects the chewing efficiency of nursing home residents are not available.

Objective

To evaluate associations between prosthetic status, dementia and chewing efficiency of seniors in nursing homes.

Methods

This study was performed in nine nursing homes. In addition to assessing the general and medical data of the participants, a dental examination was assessed and the severity of dementia was evaluated by use of the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR). Furthermore, chewing efficiency was assessed by use of a two‐colour mixing ability test. Descriptive and bivariate statistics, as well as linear regression models with the dependent variable chewing efficiency and possible confounders, were used to analyse data at P < .05.

Results

Complete target variables of 146 participants were analysed. The mean (SD) chewing efficiency of the study sample, as expressed by the variance of hue, was .590 (.250). The type of prosthesis used (P < .001), the number of occluding tooth pairs (P < .001) and the presence of dementia (P = .002) were the main variables significantly affecting chewing efficiency. The condition of removable dentures also had an effect (P = .016). Multivariate testing predominantly confirmed these associations.

Conclusion

The chewing efficiency of seniors in nursing homes is somewhat compromised. Beyond dental aspects, suffering from dementia seems to reduce the chewing efficiency. Further interventional/longitudinal studies are, however, encouraged to verify this outcome.
The Perils of Explaining Climate Inaction in Terms of Psychological Barriers
Authors: Schmitt Michael T. , Neufeld Scott D. , Mackay Caroline M. L. , Dys‐Steenbergen Odilia
Published: November 2019

As awareness of climate change and its consequences increases, many have asked, “Why aren't people taking action?” Some psychologists have provided an answer that we describe as a “psychological barriers explanation” (PBE). The PBE suggests that human nature is limited in ways that create psychological barriers to taking action on climate change. Taking a critical social psychology approach (e.g., Adams, 2014), we offer a critique of the PBE, arguing that locating the causes of inaction at the psychological level promotes a misrepresentation of human nature as static and disconnected from context. Barriers to environmental action certainly exist, and most if not all involve psychological processes. However, locating the barrier itself at the psychological level ignores the complex interplay between psychological tendencies, social relations, and social structures. We consider the ways in which psychological responses to climate change are contingent upon social‐structural context, with particular attention to the ways unequal distributions of power have allowed elites to block climate action, in part by using their power to influence societal beliefs and norms. In conclusion, we suggest that psychologists interested in climate (in)action expand their scope beyond individual consumer behaviors to include psychological questions that challenge existing power relations and raise the possibility of transformative social change.
Human perception of fresh produce treated with grape seed extract: A preliminary study
Authors: Hollis Francine H. , Denney Samuel , Halfacre Justice , Jackson Timothy , Link Amber , Orr DeNisha
Published: November 2019

Natural antimicrobials, such as grape seed extract (GSE), have been investigated for their efficacy against spoilage microorganisms and foodborne pathogens linked to foodborne illness outbreaks associated with raw and minimally processed fruits and vegetables. While many natural antimicrobial efficacy studies fail to include sensory testing, one critical factor that must be addressed when considering the potential use or application of natural antimicrobials is their impact on sensory perception. The objectives of this study were to determine how GSE modifies perceived sensory characteristics of raw carrots, grapes, kale, and spinach and to assess consumer liking of GSE‐treated fresh produce. Participants (n = 71) evaluated appearance, texture, aroma, and taste characteristics and indicated their overall liking for the selected produce. No significant differences were found among sensory characteristics for treated and untreated carrots, grapes, and spinach. GSE‐treated kale was found to have a significantly stronger aroma and darker color than untreated kale.

Practical Applications

Natural antimicrobials are increasingly being applied to minimally processed foods including fresh produce as a food safety intervention strategy against spoilage microorganisms and foodborne pathogens. Many research studies investigate the efficacy of natural antimicrobials but fail to incorporate sensory testing to ensure that they do not directly or indirectly alter perceived sensory characteristics, such as appearance, texture, and flavor. Research results will aid food processors of minimally processed foods by (a) providing insight as to how consumers perceive fresh produce treated with natural antimicrobials and (b) increasing awareness and understanding of the effect of natural antimicrobials on perceived sensory characteristics of fresh produce. Grape seed extract (i.e., 1 mg/1 ml) may be applied to fresh produce, specifically carrots, grapes, and spinach, without significantly altering appearance, texture, aroma, and taste characteristics. This study demonstrated the importance of conducting sensory testing for natural antimicrobials; results suggest that observed sensory impacts may be produce‐specific.
Increased plasma melatonin in presymptomatic Huntington disease sheep (Ovis aries): Compensatory neuroprotection in a neurodegenerative disease?
Authors: Morton A. Jennifer , Middleton Benita , Rudiger Skye , Bawden C. Simon , Kuchel Timothy R. , Skene Debra J.
Published: November 2019

Melatonin is a pleiotrophic hormone, synthesised primarily by the pineal gland under the control of the suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN). It not only provides a hormonal signal of darkness but also has neuroprotective properties. Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterised by abnormal motor, cognitive and psychiatric symptoms. There is growing evidence, particularly from animal models, that circadian rhythms may also be disturbed in HD. We measured two circadian‐regulated hormones, melatonin and cortisol, in plasma samples collected around‐the‐clock from normal and presymptomatic transgenic HD sheep (Ovis aries) at 5 and 7 years of age, to assess SCN‐driven rhythms and the effect of genotype, sex and age. Melatonin‐related precursors and metabolites (tryptophan, serotonin, kynurenine) were also measured by liquid chromatography (LC)‐mass spectrometry (MS). At 5 years of age in both rams and ewes, plasma melatonin levels were significantly elevated in HD sheep. In ewes measured 2 years later, there was still a significant elevation of nocturnal melatonin. Furthermore, the daytime baseline levels of melatonin were significantly higher in HD sheep. Since increased melatonin could have global beneficial effects on brain function, we suggest that the increased melatonin measured in presymptomatic HD sheep is part of an autoprotective response to mutant huntingtin toxicity that may account, at least in part, for the late onset of disease that characterises HD.
A regularity structure for rough volatility
Authors: Bayer Christian , Friz Peter K. , Gassiat Paul , Martin Jorg , Stemper Benjamin
Published: November 2019

A new paradigm has emerged recently in financial modeling: rough (stochastic) volatility. First observed by Gatheral et al. in high‐frequency data, subsequently derived within market microstructure models, rough volatility captures parsimoniously key‐stylized facts of the entire implied volatility surface, including extreme skews (as observed earlier by Alòs et al.) that were thought to be outside the scope of stochastic volatility models. On the mathematical side, Markovianity and, partially, semimartingality are lost. In this paper, we show that Hairer's regularity structures, a major extension of rough path theory, which caused a revolution in the field of stochastic partial differential equations, also provide a new and powerful tool to analyze rough volatility models.
Porphyromonas gingivalis genes conferring fitness in a tobacco‐rich environment
Authors: Hutcherson Justin A. , Gogenini Himabindu , Lamont Gwyneth J. , Miller Daniel P. , Nowakowska Zuzanna , Lasica Anna M. , Liu Chengcheng , Potempa Jan , Lamont Richard J. , Yoder‐Himes Deborah , Scott David A.
Published: November 2019

Smokers are more likely than non‐smokers to harbour Porphyromonas gingivalis, they are more susceptible to destructive periodontal disease and smokers may, ultimately, benefit from tobacco‐specific preventive and treatment strategies. A Mariner transposon insertion library for P. gingivalis ATCC 33277 was exploited to define 256 genes as essential for P. gingivalis survival in a tobacco‐rich environment. Genes whose products play roles in protein transport and catabolism, nicotinamide processing, protection against oxidative stress, drug resistance, and transcriptional regulation have all been identified as essential for CSE survival. Many of these tobacco‐essential genes are also requisite for epithelial colonization and abscess formation, suggestive of a core stress‐related P. gingivalis genome. Single‐gene deletions in several of the TnSeq‐implicated genes led to significantly reduced P. gingivalis fitness upon competition with the parent strain, under conditions of cigarette smoke extract‐induced stress (1,000 ng/ml nicotine equivalents). This study identifies, for the first time, a subset of P. gingivalis genes required for surviving the plethora of insults present in cigarette smoke. Such conditionally essential genes may delineate bacterial persistence strategies and represent novel therapeutic foci for the prevention of P. gingivalis infection and related diseases in smokers and in general.
Origin of blocky aragonite cement in Cenozoic glaciomarine sediments, McMurdo Sound, Antarctica
Authors: Yang Mingyu , Frank Tracy D. , Fielding Christopher R. , Smith Megan E. , Swart Peter K.
Published: November 2019

Inorganic aragonite occurs in a wide spectrum of depositional environments and its precipitation is controlled by complex physio‐chemical factors. This study investigates diagenetic conditions that led to aragonite cement precipitation in Cenozoic glaciomarine deposits of McMurdo Sound, Antarctica. A total of 42 sandstones that host intergranular cement were collected from the CIROS‐1 core, located proximal to the terminus of Ferrar Glacier. Standard petrography, Raman spectroscopy and electron microprobe analysis reveal a prominent aragonite cement phase that occurs as a pore‐filling blocky fabric throughout the core. Oxygen isotope compositions (δ18O = −30·0 to −8·6‰ Vienna Pee‐Dee Belemnite) and clumped isotope temperatures (TΔ47 = 13·1 to 31·5°C) determined from the aragonite cements provide precise constraints on isotopic compositions (δ18Ow) of the parent fluid, which mostly range from −10·8 to −7·2‰ Vienna Standard Mean Ocean Water. The fluid δ18Ow values are consistent with those of pore water, previously identified as cryogenic brine in the nearby AND‐2A core. Petrographic and geochemical data suggest that aragonite cement in the CIROS‐1 core precipitated from a similar brine. The brine likely formed and infiltrated sediments in flooded glacial valleys along the western margin of McMurdo Sound during the middle Miocene Climatic Transition, and subsequently flowed basinward in the subsurface. Consequently, the brine forms as a longstanding subsurface fluid that has saturated Cenozoic sediments below southern McMurdo Sound since at least the middle Miocene. Aragonite cementation in the CIROS‐1 core is interpreted to reflect its proximal position to sites of brine formation and greater likelihood of experiencing brines with sustained high carbonate saturation states and Mg/Ca ratios. This unusual occurrence expands the range of known natural occurrences of aragonite cement. Given the potential for cryogenic brine formation in glaciomarine settings, blocky aragonite, as the end member of the spectrum of aragonite cement morphology, may be more widespread in glaciomarine sediments than currently thought.
A simple mechanical apparatus for measuring the surface tension of soap bubbles
Authors: Specht Martin , Frömbgen Tom , Wessely Hannah , Sokolowski Moritz
Published: November 2019

We report on the construction of a simple apparatus for measuring the small overpressure inside soap bubbles with sizes in the cm range. The apparatus uses Archimedes' principle and it can be easily calibrated. Thus, surface tensions of soap films can be measured quantitatively. The apparatus is also well suited to demonstrate the Young–Laplace law in front of an audience such as a classroom. The design of the apparatus is subject to a criterion for stability, which we discuss in detail and that can be discussed with the audience. The setup of the apparatus requires components that are commonly available in households or school labs and it can be set up by students on their own.
Molecular dynamics simulation of a two-dimensional dusty plasma
Authors: Donkó István , Hartmann Peter , Donkó Zoltán
Published: November 2019

Two-dimensional dusty plasmas can be realized experimentally and are examples of a classical many body system with a screened Coulomb interaction. After discussing experimental approaches, we present the basics of molecular dynamics simulations of dusty plasmas. A web-based platform is developed that allows users to perform molecular dynamics simulations, visualize the system for selected system parameters, and obtain results for the pair correlation function and the dispersion relation of waves in the system.
Activity of Imipenem-Relebactam against a Large Collection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Clinical Isolates and Isogenic β-Lactam-Resistant Mutants
Authors: Fraile-Ribot Pablo A. , Zamorano Laura , Orellana Rocío , del Barrio-Tofiño Ester , Sánchez-Diener Irina , Cortes-Lara Sara , López-Causapé Carla , Cabot Gabriel , Bou Germán , Martínez-Martínez Luis , Oliver Antonio ,   on behalf of the GEMARA-SEIMC/REIPI Pseudomonas Study Group, Galán Fátima , Gracia Irene , Rodríguez Manuel Antonio , Martín Lina , Sánchez Juan Manuel , Viñuela Laura , García Ma Victoria , Lepe José Antonio , Aznar Javier , López-Hernández Inma , Seral Cristina , Castillo-García Francisco Javier , López-Calleja Ana Isabel , Aspiroz Carmen , de la Iglesia Pedro , Ramón Susana , Riera Elena , Pérez María Cruz , Gallegos Carmen , Calvo Jorge , Quesada María Dolores , Marco Francesc , Hoyos Yannick , Horcajada Juan Pablo , Larrosa Nieves , José González Juan , Tubau Fe , Capilla Silvia , Pérez-Moreno Mar Olga , Centelles Ma José , Padilla Emma , Rivera Alba , Mirelis Beatriz , Rodríguez-Tarazona Raquel Elisa , Arenal-Andrés Noelia , Ortega María del Pilar , Megías Gregoria , García Inmaculada , Colmenarejo Cristina , González José Carlos , Martínez Nora Mariela , Gomila Bárbara , Giner Salvador , Tormo Nuria , Garduño Eugenio , Agulla José Andrés , Seoane Alejandro , Pita Julia , Vidal Isabel Paz , Guzmán David Mauricio , García Marta , Luisa Pérez del Molino María , Barbeito Gema , Artiles Fernando , Azcona-Gutiérrez José Manuel , Sáenz Yolanda , Antonio Oteo José , González Ana , Villa Jennifer , Chaves Fernando , Cercenado Emilia , Alarcón Teresa , Zurita Nelly Daniela , Merino Irene , Morosini María Isabel , Cantón Rafael , Sánchez María Isabel , Moreno Laura , Yagüe Genoveva , Leiva José , Barrios José Luis , Canut Andrés , Oteo Jesús
Published: November 2019

Imipenem and imipenem-relebactam MICs were determined for 1,445
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
clinical isolates and a large panel of isogenic mutants showing the most relevant mutation-driven β-lactam resistance mechanisms. Imipenem-relebactam showed the highest susceptibility rate (97.3%), followed by colistin and ceftolozane-tazobactam (both 94.6%).
Preclinical Development and Assessment of Viral Vectors Expressing a Fusion Antigen of Plasmodium falciparum LSA1 and LSAP2 for Efficacy against Liver-Stage Malaria
Authors: Halbroth Benedict R. , Sebastian Sarah , Salman Ahmed M. , Ulaszewska Marta , Gola Anita , Longley Rhea J. , Janse Chris J. , Khan Shahid M. , Hill Adrian V. S. , Spencer Alexandra J.
Published: November 2019

Despite promising progress in malaria vaccine development in recent years, an efficacious subunit vaccine againstPlasmodium falciparumremains to be licensed and deployed. Cell-mediated protection from liver-stage malaria relies on a sufficient number of antigen-specific T cells reaching the liver during the time that parasites are present. A single vaccine expressing two antigens could potentially increase both the size and breadth of the antigen-specific response while halving vaccine production costs.
Nisin J, a Novel Natural Nisin Variant, Is Produced by Staphylococcus capitis Sourced from the Human Skin Microbiota
Authors: O’Sullivan Julie N. , O’Connor Paula M. , Rea Mary C. , O’Sullivan Orla , Walsh Calum J. , Healy Brian , Mathur Harsh , Field Des , Hill Colin , Ross R. Paul
Published: November 2019

This study describes the characterization of nisin J, the first example of a natural nisin variant, produced by a human skin isolate of staphylococcal origin. Nisin J displays inhibitory activity against a wide range of bacterial targets, including MRSA. This work demonstrates the potential of human commensals as a source for novel antimicrobials that could form part of the solution to antibiotic resistance across a broad range of bacterial pathogens.
Guinea Pig Transferrin Receptor 1 Mediates Cellular Entry of Junín Virus and Other Pathogenic New World Arenaviruses
Authors: Hickerson Brady T. , Westover Jonna B. , Wang Zhongde , Lee Young-Min , Gowen Brian B.
Published: November 2019

JUNV is one of five known NWAs that cause viral hemorrhagic fever in humans. Countermeasures against JUNV infection are limited to immunization with the Candid#1 vaccine and immune plasma, which are available only in Argentina. The gold standard small animal model for JUNV infection is the guinea pig. Here, we demonstrate high sensitivity of this species to severe JUNV infection and identify gpTfR1 as the primary receptor. Use of hTfR1 for host cell entry is a feature shared by pathogenic NWAs. Our results show that expression of gpTfR1 or hTfR1 comparably enhances JUNV virus entry/infectivity. Our findings shed light on JUNV infection in guinea pigs as a model for human disease and suggest that similar pathophysiological mechanisms related to iron sequestration during infection and regulation of TfR1 expression may be shared between humans and guinea pigs. A better understanding of the underlying disease process will guide development of new therapeutic interventions.
Blood derived treatment from two allogeneic sources for severe dry eye associated to keratopathy: a multicentre randomised cross over clinical trial
Authors: Campos Emilio , Versura Piera , Buzzi Marina , Fontana Luigi , Giannaccare Giuseppe , Pellegrini Marco , Lanconelli Nico , Brancaleoni Alessandra , Moscardelli Fabiana , Sebastiani Stefano , Vaselli Cristiana , Randi Vanda
Published: November 2019

Aim

To compare the efficacy of cord blood and peripheral adult donor blood serum eyedrops, controlled for growth factor content, in the treatment of severe dry eye diseases (DED) resistant to conventional therapy.

Methods

This was a multicentre randomised, double-masked, cross-over clinical trial. Sixty patients diagnosed as severe DED, associated to persistent corneal epithelial defects were randomised and equally assigned to group A (treated with cord blood serum (CBS)) or group B (treated with PBS), eyedrops administered eight times/day for 1 month. Primary outcome was the pretreatment and post-treatment change in corneal fluorescein staining. Secondary outcomes included the pretreatment and post-treatment change in Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire and Visual Analogue Score (VAS) of subjective symptoms, Schirmer I test, tear break-up time and conjunctival staining. Patients with relapse in signs or symptoms after further 2 months switched to the remaining group for one additional month. Data were statistically analysed (p<0.05).

Results

Corneal staining was more significantly reduced after the CBS treatment, both VAS and OSDI score reduction was observed in both groups, but group A reported significantly less grittiness and pain. Nineteen patients shifted in the crossover period, the within individual comparison confirmed a better recovery in the CBS treatment period. Reduction in epithelial damage was positively associated with epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factorα and platelet-derived growth factor content. Levels of interleukins (IL-13) were positively associated with symptom decrease.

Conclusions

Overall, DED signs improved after both CBS and PBS treatments, with potential advantages of CBS for subjective symptoms and corneal damage reduction.

Clinical trial registration

NCT03064984.
Myristoleic acid produced by enterococci reduces obesity through brown adipose tissue activation
Authors: Quan Lin-Hu , Zhang Chuanhai , Dong Meng , Jiang Jun , Xu Hongde , Yan Chunlong , Liu Xiaomeng , Zhou Huiqiao , Zhang Hanlin , Chen Li , Zhong Fei-Liang , Luo Zhao-Bo , Lam Sin-Man , Shui Guanghou , Li Donghao , Jin Wanzhu
Published: November 2019

Objective

Dietary fibre has beneficial effects on energy metabolism, and the majority of studies have focused on short-chain fatty acids produced by gut microbiota. Ginseng has been reported to aid in body weight management, however, its mechanism of action is not yet clear. In this study, we focused on the potential modulating effect of ginseng on gut microbiota, aiming to identify specific strains and their metabolites, especially long-chain fatty acids (LCFA), which mediate the anti-obesity effects of ginseng.

Design

Db/db mice were gavaged with ginseng extract (GE) and the effects of GE on gut microbiota were evaluated using 16S rDNA-based high throughput sequencing. To confirm the candidate fatty acids, untargeted metabolomics analyses of the serum and medium samples were performed.

Results

We demonstrated that GE can induceEnterococcus faecalis, which can produce an unsaturated LCFA, myristoleic acid (MA). Our results indicate thatE. faecalisand its metabolite MA can reduce adiposity by brown adipose tissue (BAT) activation and beige fat formation. In addition, the gene ofE. faecalisencoding Acyl-CoA thioesterases (ACOTs) exhibited the biosynthetic potential to synthesise MA, as knockdown (KD) of the ACOT gene by CRISPR-dCas9 significantly reduced MA production. Furthermore, exogenous treatment with KDE. faecaliscould not reproduce the beneficial effects of wild typeE. faecalis, which work by augmenting the circulating MA levels.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrated that the gut microbiota-LCFA-BAT axis plays an important role in host metabolism, which may provide a strategic advantage for the next generation of anti-obesity drug development.
Using natural experimental studies to guide public health action: turning the evidence-based medicine paradigm on its head
Authors: Ogilvie David , Adams Jean , Bauman Adrian , Gregg Edward W. , Panter Jenna , Siegel Karen R. , Wareham Nicholas J. , White Martin
Published: November 2019

Despite smaller effect sizes, interventions delivered at population level to prevent non-communicable diseases generally have greater reach, impact and equity than those delivered to high-risk groups. Nevertheless, how to shift population behaviour patterns in this way remains one of the greatest uncertainties for research and policy. Evidence about behaviour change interventions that are easier to evaluate tends to overshadow that for population-wide and system-wide approaches that generate and sustain healthier behaviours. Population health interventions are often implemented as natural experiments, which makes their evaluation more complex and unpredictable than a typical randomised controlled trial (RCT). We discuss the growing importance of evaluating natural experiments and their distinctive contribution to the evidence for public health policy. We contrast the established evidence-based practice pathway, in which RCTs generate ‘definitive’ evidence for particular interventions, with a practice-based evidence pathway in which evaluation can help adjust the compass bearing of existing policy. We propose that intervention studies should focus on reducing critical uncertainties, that non-randomised study designs should be embraced rather than tolerated and that a more nuanced approach to appraising the utility of diverse types of evidence is required. The complex evidence needed to guide public health action is not necessarily the same as that which is needed to provide an unbiased effect size estimate. The practice-based evidence pathway is neither inferior nor merely the best available when all else fails. It is often the only way to generate meaningful evidence to address critical questions about investing in population health interventions.
Effects of dietary n-6/n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids ratio on growth performance, apparent digestibility, blood lipid profiles, fecal microbiota, and meat quality in finishing pigs
Authors: Sun Hao Yang , Yun Hyeok Min , Kim In Ho
Published: November 2019

The effects of dietary omega-6 (n-6) to omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) ratios on growth performance, digestibility, blood lipid profiles, fecal microbial counts, and meat quality in finishing pigs were examined by using linseed and fish oil. A total of 140 crossbred finishing pigs [(Landrace × Yorkshire) × Duroc] were used in a 10 wk trial. Pigs were blocked based on body weight (BW) and sex and randomly allotted to four dietary treatments formulated to have n-6/n-3 ratios of 5/1, 10/1, 15/1, and 17/1 (control). Throughout the experiment, BW, average daily gain, and average daily feed intake were significantly (P < 0.05) increased with a decreased ratio of n-6/n-3 PUFA. Energy digestibility and fecal Lactobacillus count showed a linear (P < 0.05) increase in week 10. The high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and blood triglyceride concentrations increased (P < 0.1) during week 10. However, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was reduced (P < 0.05) linearly during week 5 and week 10 with a reduction in dietary n-6/n-3 ratio. This study provides a basis for future research on altering n-6/n-3 ratio by using linseed oil and refined fish oil in finishing pigs.
Meat fatty acid and purine derivatives in hair lambs in tropical climates
Authors: Campos Ana Claudia Nascimento , Evangelista Monalisa Eva Santos , Rocha Junior José Nery , Pinheiro da Silva Luciano , Bezerra Leilson Rocha , Oliveira Ronaldo Lopes , Furtado Rafael Nogueira , Carneiro Maria Socorro Souza , Souza Jocely Gomes , Pereira Elzania Sales
Published: November 2019

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of feed restriction and sex class on the intake and digestibility of nutrients as well as meat fatty acid profiles in Santa Ines lambs. Thirty lambs with initial body weights of 13 ± 1.49 kg and ages of 60 d were used in a completely randomized study with a 3 × 2 factorial arrangement consisting of three feeding levels (0 or ad libitum, 30%, and 60% feed restriction) and two sex classes (15 intact male and 15 castrated male), comprising five animals in each treatment. The experimental trial lasted 100 d. Increased feed restriction levels resulted in lower intake (P < 0.001) and higher digestibility of nutrients. There were decreases (P < 0.05) in the excretion of nitrogen compounds and purine derivatives when feed restriction increased. The feed restriction decreased (P < 0.05) the concentrations of C18:2n6 and C18:3n3 in the meat but did not affect the C18:2c9t11. The ratio of polyunsaturated fatty acids:monounsaturated fatty acid was higher in the 60% feed restriction. The results suggest that feed restriction improves nutrient utilization efficiency. The feed restriction up to 30% leads to a higher concentration of saturated fatty acids in meats.
Biological mats in siliciclastic sediments of the Paleoproterozoic Gunflint Formation, northwestern Ontario, Canada
Authors: Fischer Sadie , Fralick Philip
Published: November 2019

The Gunflint Formation of northwestern Ontario, Canada, contains an extensive array of stromatolite morphologies and associated fossilized bacteria. It, and correlative units in the United States, provided some of the most persuasive early interpretations of stromatolites and evidence of Precambrian bacterial life. This study examined the siliciclastic rocks in the Gunflint Formation and discovered a multitude of features formed by the development of cohesive biogenic mats on bedding surfaces. In former shallow subtidal depositional settings, evidence of mat erosion was most common, with the presence of various types of wrinkle structures. Microscopically carbonaceous layers and rip-up fragments representing mats and their eroded remnants are well preserved. This emphasizes the abundance of bacterial life in the shallow nearshore of the Gunflint Formation about 1.88 billion years ago and further indicates an increased flux of reductants was necessary during this time period to establish low oxygen levels in the ocean.
New insights into the geologic evolution of the Grenvillian Trenton Prong inlier, Central Appalachian Piedmont, USA
Authors: Volkert Richard A.
Published: November 2019

New geochemical and 40Ar/39Ar hornblende and biotite data from the Grenvillian Trenton Prong inlier provide the first constraints for the identification of lithotectonic units, their tectonic setting, and their metamorphic to post-metamorphic history. Gneissic tonalite, diorite, and gabbro compose the Colonial Lake Suite magmatic arc that developed along eastern Laurentia prior to 1.2 Ga. Spatially associated low- and high-TiO2 amphibolites were formed from island-arc basalt proximal to the arc front and mid-ocean ridge basalt-like basalt in a back-arc setting, respectively. Supracrustal paragneisses include meta-arkose derived from a continental sediment source of Laurentian affinity and metagraywacke and metapelite from an arc-like sediment source deposited in a back-arc basin, inboard of the Colonial Lake arc. The Assunpink Creek Granite was emplaced post-tectonically as small bodies of peraluminous syenogranite produced through partial melting of a subduction-modified felsic crustal source. Prograde mineral assemblages reached granulite- to amphibolite-facies metamorphic conditions during the Ottawan phase of the Grenvillian Orogeny. Hornblende 40Ar/39Ar ages of 935–923 Ma and a biotite age of 868 Ma record slow cooling in the northern part of the inlier following the metamorphic peak. Elsewhere in the inlier, biotite 40Ar/39Ar ages of 440 Ma and 377–341 Ma record partial to complete thermal resetting or new growth during the Taconian and Acadian orogens. The results of this study are consistent with the Trenton Prong being the down-dropped continuation of the Grenvillian New Jersey Highlands on the hanging wall of a major detachment fault. The Trenton Prong therefore correlates to other central and northern Appalachian Grenvillian inliers and to parts of the Grenville Province proper.
Boreal old-growth forest structural diversity challenges aerial photographic survey accuracy
Authors: Martin Maxence , Fenton Nicole J. , Morin Hubert
Published: November 2019

The erosion of old-growth forests in boreal managed landscapes is a major issue currently faced by forest managers; however, resolving this problem requires accurate surveys. The intention of our study was to determine if historic operational aerial forest surveys accurately identified boreal old-growth forests in Quebec, Canada. We first compared stand successional stages (even-aged vs. old-growth) in two aerial surveys performed in 1968 (preindustrial aerial survey) and 2007 (modern aerial survey) on the same 2200 km2 territory. Second, we evaluated the accuracy of the modern aerial survey by comparing its results with those of 74 field plots sampled in the study territory between 2014 and 2016. The two aerial surveys differed significantly; 80.8% of the undisturbed stands that were identified as “old-growth” in the preindustrial survey were classified as “even-aged” in the modern survey, and 60% of the stands identified as “old-growth” by field sampling were also erroneously identified as “even-aged” by the modern aerial survey. The scarcity of obvious old-growth attributes in boreal old-growth forests, as well as poorly adapted modern aerial survey criteria (i.e., criteria requiring high vertical stratification and significant changes in tree species composition along forest succession), were the main factors explaining these errors. It is therefore likely that most of Quebec’s boreal old-growth forests are currently not recognized as such in forest inventories, challenging the efficacy of sustainable forest management policies.