bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arabidopsis DXO1 possesses deNADding and exonuclease activities and its mutation affects defense‐related and photosynthetic gene expression
Authors: Pan Shuying , Li Kai‐en , Huang Wei , Zhong Huan , Wu Huihui , Wang Yuan , Zhang He , Cai Zongwei , Guo Hongwei , Chen Xuemei , Xia Yiji
Published: August 2019

RNA capping and decapping tightly coordinate with transcription, translation, and RNA decay to regulate gene expression. Proteins in the DXO/Rai1 family have been implicated in mRNA decapping and decay, and mammalian DXO was recently found to also function as a decapping enzyme for NAD+‐capped RNAs (NAD‐RNA). The Arabidopsis genome contains a single gene encoding a DXO/Rai1 protein, AtDXO1. Here we show that AtDXO1 possesses both NAD‐RNA decapping activity and 5ʹ‐3ʹ exonuclease activity but does not hydrolyze the m7G cap. The atdxo1 mutation increased the stability of NAD‐RNAs and led to pleiotropic phenotypes, including severe growth retardation, pale color, and multiple developmental defects. Transcriptome profiling analysis showed that the atdxo1 mutation resulted in upregulation of defense‐related genes but downregulation of photosynthesis‐related genes. The autoimmunity phenotype of the mutant could be suppressed by either eds1 or npr1 mutation. However, the various phenotypes associated with the atdxo1 mutant could be complemented by an enzymatically inactive AtDXO1. The atdxo1 mutation apparently enhances post‐transcriptional gene silencing by elevating levels of siRNAs. Our study indicates that AtDXO1 regulates gene expression in various biological and physiological processes through its pleiotropic molecular functions in mediating RNA processing and decay.
Intrapartum Care and Experiences of Women with Midwives Versus Obstetricians in the Listening to Mothers in California Survey
Authors: Declercq Eugene R. , Belanoff Candice , Sakala Carol
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Many studies based on hospital records or vital statistics have found that childbearing women experience benefits of lower rates of intervention with midwifery care versus obstetric care during labor and birth. Surveys of women's views and experiences can provide a richer analysis when comparing intrapartum care of midwives and obstetricians.

Methods

This study was a secondary analysis of data from the population‐based Listening to Mothers in California survey. The sample, which was representative of 2016 California hospital births, was drawn from birth certificate files and oversampled midwife‐attended births. Women responded to the survey in English or Spanish on any device or with a telephone interviewer. The present analysis is based on 1421 of the 2539 participants who identified a midwife or obstetrician as their attendant at a vaginal birth. A bivariate analysis of demographic, attitudinal, and intrapartum variables was conducted. A multivariable model included sociodemographic and attitudinal variables as covariates.

Results

Bivariate analyses found significant socioeconomic differences by type of intrapartum care provider, with women in California attended by midwives more likely to be well educated and privately insured than women attended by obstetricians. Women with midwife birth attendants were less likely to report experiencing various intrapartum medical interventions, less likely to experience pressure to have epidural analgesia, and more likely to report that staff encouraged the woman's decision making. Adjusted odds ratios found that women with midwives were less likely to experience medical interventions, including attempted labor induction; labor augmentation; and use of pain medications, epidural analgesia, and intravenous fluids; and less likely to report pressure to have labor induction or epidural analgesia. Women cared for by midwives were more likely to experience any nonpharmacologic pain relief measures and nitrous oxide and to agree that hospital staff encouraged their decision making.

Discussion

Using women's own reports of their care experiences and adjusting for possible differences in women's attitudes and case mix, we found that midwifery care of women who had vaginal births was associated with reduced use of medical interventions and increased women's decisional latitude during labor and birth.
Insights into the origin and evolution of plant sigma factors
Authors: Fu Xin‐Xing , Zhang Jian , Zhang Guo‐Qiang , Liu Zhong‐Jian , Chen Zhi‐Duan
Published: August 2019

Plant sigma factors (SIGs) are key regulators of chloroplast gene expression and chloroplast differentiation. Despite their functional importance, the evolutionary history of these factors remains unclear. Using newly available genomic and transcriptomic data, we undertook a detailed and comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of SIG homologues from land plants and algae. Our results reveal that plants have acquired sigma factors from ancestor cyanobacteria through endosymbiotic gene transfers, forming four major clades, namely, super‐SIG2 (SIG2/3/4/6/SIG2‐like), SIG1, SIG5, and SIGX. The super‐SIG2 clade was confirmed to have evolved from cyanobacterial SIGA factors, and a novel clade (SIGX) specific to non‐angiosperms was revealed here. Gene duplications (mainly whole genome duplications) within lineages and species have contributed to the expansion of sigma factors in plants, especially flowering plants. We hypothesize that plant sigma factors originated from different endosymbiotic ancestors and evolved diverse functions. This not only sheds new light on the evolution of plant SIG genes but also paves the way for understanding the functional diversification of these genes.
Presumptive iatrogenic hypoadrenocorticism induced by high‐dose ketoconazole administration in a dog
Authors: Hernandez‐Bures Andrea , White Amelia G. , Riordan Laura
Published: August 2019

A 11‐year‐old male neutered Shih Tzu was referred to a tertiary facility with a history of weight loss, decreased appetite, polydipsia, and lethargy. The dog had a 10‐year history of nonspecific allergic dermatitis and was being treated with 16 mg/kg of ketoconazole q12h forMalasseziadermatitis. Vague gastrointestinal signs, hypocholesterolemia, and lack of a stress leukogram increased suspicion for hypoadrenocorticism (HA). An adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test identified hypocortisolemia on pre‐ and post‐ACTH samples and ketoconazole was discontinued. After a short course of corticosteroid treatment, an ACTH stimulation test was repeated and pre‐ACTH cortisol concentration was within the reference range, and the post‐ACTH cortisol concentration was mildly increased. The temporal association between return of adequate adrenocortical cortisol production and discontinuation of ketoconazole led to the conclusion that the dog had developed iatrogenic HA secondary to ketoconazole treatment.
Evaluation of the effect of a new method on the pelvic organ prolapse symptoms
Authors: Gorji Zahra , Pourmomeny Abbas A. , Hajhashemy Maryam
Published: August 2019

Objective

Previous studies of treatment for prolapse, patients have undergone pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), but no exercises were performed for the hip muscles. Accordingly, this study investigated a new conservative treatment approach that was hypothesized to improve prolapse symptoms more than PFMT.

Methods

Forty women with Stage 2 or 3 prolapse were randomly assigned to either the control or intervention group (n = 20 in each). In this study, patients are treated for 12 sessions (4 weeks and 3 sessions each week). In the control group, the pelvic floor muscle training is applied in for treatment. In the intervention group, in addition to pelvic floor muscle training, postural or positional inversion exercises are included in training.

Results

There was a significant difference between the control and intervention groups in only three domains of the Prolapse Quality of Life questionnaire, namely general health (P = 0.010), physical limitation (P = 0.038), and social limitation (P = 0.010). Furthermore, International Consultation of Incontinence (ICIQ) scores for filling symptoms and bother scale differed significantly between the two groups (P = 0.035 and P = 0.045, respectively). There was also a significant difference in the stage of prolapse and pelvic floor muscle strength in both groups compared with baseline, although only pelvic floor. muscle strength differed significantly between the two groups (P = 0.041).

Conclusion

This new method of postural or positional inversion leads to a greater improvement in symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse.
Assessing the viral content of uncultured picoeukaryotes in the global‐ocean by single cell genomics
Authors: Castillo Yaiza M. , Mangot Jean‐François , Benites Luiz Felipe , Logares Ramiro , Kuronishi Megumi , Ogata Hiroyuki , Jaillon Olivier , Massana Ramon , Sebastián Marta , Vaqué Dolors
Published: August 2019

Viruses are the most abundant biological entities on Earth and have fundamental ecological roles in controlling microbial communities. Yet, although their diversity is being increasingly explored, little is known about the extent of viral interactions with their protist hosts as most studies are limited to a few cultivated species. Here, we exploit the potential of single‐cell genomics to unveil viral associations in 65 individual cells of 11 essentially uncultured stramenopiles lineages sampled during the Tara Oceans expedition. We identified viral signals in 57% of the cells, covering nearly every lineage and with narrow host specificity signal. Only seven out of the 64 detected viruses displayed homologies to known viral sequences. A search for our viral sequences in global ocean metagenomes showed that they were preferentially found at the DCM and within the 0.2–3 µm size fraction. Some of the viral signals were widely distributed, while others geographically constrained. Among the viral signals we detected an endogenous mavirus virophage potentially integrated within the nuclear genome of two distant uncultured stramenopiles. Virophages have been previously reported as a cell's defence mechanism against other viruses, and may therefore play an important ecological role in regulating protist populations. Our results point to single‐cell genomics as a powerful tool to investigate viral associations in uncultured protists, suggesting a wide distribution of these relationships, and providing new insights into the global viral diversity.
Mosquito control actions affect chironomid diversity in temporary wetlands of the Upper Rhine Valley
Authors: Theissinger Kathrin , Röder Nina , Allgeier Stefanie , Beermann Arne J. , Brühl Carsten A. , Friedrich Anna , Michiels Susanne , Schwenk Klaus
Published: August 2019

The Upper Rhine Valley, a “hotspot of biodiversity” in Germany, has been treated with the biocide Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bti) for mosquito control for decades. Previous studies discovered Bti nontarget effects in terms of severe chironomid abundance reductions. In this study, we investigated the impact of Bti on species level and addressed the community composition of the nontarget family Chironomidae by use of community metabarcoding. Chironomid emergence data were collected in three mosquito‐control relevant wetland types in the Upper Rhine Valley. For all three sites the chironomid species composition, based on operational taxonomic units (OTUs), was different to varying degrees in the Bti‐treated samples versus control samples, ranging from a significant 63% OTU reduction to an OTU replacement. We assumed that predatory chironomids are less prone to Bti than filter feeders, as the latter feed on floating particles leading to direct ingestion of Bti. However, a comparable percentage of predators and filter feeders (63% and 65%, respectively) was reduced in the Bti samples, suggesting that the feeding strategy is not the main driver for Bti sensitivity in chironomids. Finally, our data was compared to a three‐year‐old data set, indicating possible chironomid community recovery due to species recolonization a few years after the last Bti application. Considering the currently discussed worldwide insect decline we recommend a rethinking of the usage of the biocide Bti, and to prevent its ongoing application especially in nature protection reserves to enhance ecological resilience and to prevent boosting the current biodiversity loss.
Modeling biomass of white birch (Betula platyphylla) in the Lesser Khingan Range of China based on terrestrial 3D laser scanning system
Authors: Meng Yuan , Dong Xibin , Liu Weiguo , Lin Wenshu
Published: August 2019

The three‐dimensional (3D) terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) system was used to obtain the point cloud data ofBetula platyphyllasample trees and the diameter at breast height (DBH), tree height, and biomass were measured for these trees. A 3D point cloud model was constructed to obtain the parameters, such as trunk volume, crown volume, and crown surface area. Then, the TLS‐based parameters were introduced into the traditional constant allometric ratio (CAR) biomass models. The fitting precision of the modified models was compared with the traditional CAR models. Results showed that (a) the total biomass model and the biomass allocation models by introducing trunk volume and crown volume were optimal in terms of coefficient of determination (R2). TheR2of the total, trunk, branch, and leaf biomass models were 0.990, 0.966, 0.960, and 0.936, respectively. (b) The errors for the modified biomass models with trunk volume and crown volume were the smallest.

Recommendations for Resource Managers

Forest biomass represents the primary productivity of forests, which plays an important role in the study of the relationship between forest ecosystems and climate.

The traditional constant allometric ratio biomass models were modified by introducing some key parameters from three‐dimensional point cloud data, such as trunk volume, crown volume, or crown surface area to improve the fitting precision.

Betula platyphyllabiomass can be well estimated by the modified biomass models, which can significantly increase the reliability of tracking the changes of carbon stocks ofB. platyphyllanatural secondary forest in the Lesser Khingan Range of China.
Adult mental health practitioner beliefs about psychosis, parenting, and the role of the practitioner: A Q methodological investigation
Authors: Adderley Hope , Wittkowski Anja , Calam Rachel , Gregg Lynsey
Published: August 2019

Objectives

There is a lack of research into parenting interventions for families which include a parent experiencing psychosis or other serious mental illness (SMI). Preliminary findings highlight the potential benefits of adult mental health practitioners supporting parents experiencing SMI by using self‐directed parenting interventions. This study explored beliefs relating to parenting and psychosis held by practitioners working in adult mental health settings, specifically examining their beliefs about the parenting needs of adults experiencing psychosis who have dependent children, as well as their role as adult mental health practitioners.

Design

This study used Q methodology to explore the beliefs of mental health practitioners on psychosis and parenting.

Methods

Twenty‐one adult mental health practitioners ranked 58 items according to how much they agreed with the belief statement presented. Participants also provided additional written information and interviews to contextualize the Q methodology data.

Results

Three factors emerged representing three groups of practitioners with similar beliefs around psychosis and parenting. Factors were labelled: ‘Parenting interventions are worthwhile, and I’d deliver them’, ‘Parenting interventions are worthwhile, but I’m not confident to deliver them’, and ‘Parenting interventions might be worthwhile, but it’s not my responsibility’.

Conclusion

Using parenting interventions as part of their clinical work was acceptable to most practitioners; however, some lacked confidence in their ability to work in a family‐focused way. Efforts now need to focus on enhancing practitioners’ skill, knowledge, and confidence in family‐focused approaches to provide increased and improved support to families which include a parent experiencing psychosis or other SMI.

Practitioner points

Parenting interventions need to be made more available and accessible to parents experiencing serious mental illness (SMI), such as psychosis.

Adult mental health practitioners are willing to incorporate parenting interventions into their work with parents accessing their services, but some lack confidence to do this.

These results highlight the importance of equipping practitioners with the skill, knowledge, and confidence to engage in family‐focused approaches.

Further research needs to involve parents experiencing SMI as well practitioners working in adult mental health services.
Molecular insight into cotton leaf curl geminivirus disease resistance in cultivated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)
Authors: Zaidi Syed Shan‐e‐Ali , Naqvi Rubab Zahra , Asif Muhammad , Strickler Susan , Shakir Sara , Shafiq Muhammad , Khan Abdul Manan , Amin Imran , Mishra Bharat , Mukhtar M. Shahid , Scheffler Brian E. , Scheffler Jodi A. , Mueller Lukas A. , Mansoor Shahid
Published: August 2019

Cultivated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) is the most important fibre crop in the world. Cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD) is the major limiting factor and a threat to textile industry in India and Pakistan. All the local cotton cultivars exhibit moderate to no resistance against CLCuD. In this study, we evaluated an exotic cotton accession Mac7 as a resistance source to CLCuD by challenging it with viruliferous whiteflies and performing qPCR to evaluate the presence/absence and relative titre of CLCuD‐associated geminiviruses/betasatellites. The results indicated that replication of pathogenicity determinant betasatellite is significantly attenuated in Mac7 and probably responsible for resistance phenotype. Afterwards, to decipher the genetic basis of CLCuD resistance in Mac7, we performed RNA sequencing on CLCuD‐infested Mac7 and validated RNA‐Seq data with qPCR on 24 independent genes. We performed co‐expression network and pathway analysis for regulation of geminivirus/betasatellite‐interacting genes. We identified nine novel modules with 52 hubs of highly connected genes in network topology within the co‐expression network. Analysis of these hubs indicated the differential regulation of auxin stimulus and cellular localization pathways in response to CLCuD. We also analysed the differential regulation of geminivirus/betasatellite‐interacting genes in Mac7. We further performed the functional validation of selected candidate genes via virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS). Finally, we evaluated the genomic context of resistance responsive genes and found that these genes are not specific to A or D sub‐genomes of G. hirsutum. These results have important implications in understanding CLCuD resistance mechanism and developing a durable resistance in cultivated cotton.
The biker‐glove pattern of congenital melanocytic nevi
Authors: Kittler Nicole W. , Mathes Erin F. , Kinsler Veronica , Frieden Ilona J.
Published: August 2019

Congenital melanocytic nevi (CMN) are common birthmarks with 20% occurring on the limbs. We describe 4 patients with acral CMN with a “biker‐glove” distribution with sparing of the distal digits, as has previously been described in acral infantile hemangiomas (IH). The existence of the biker‐glove pattern suggests that CMN arise from early mutations in melanocyte precursors and supports the recently described Kinsler‐Larue hypothesis of mesenchymal distribution of melanocyte migration occurring in a circular field from a central point. Developmental errors in mesenchymal precursors with similar migration patterns may explain this shared pattern among CMN and IH.
Childhood ocular mucous membrane pemphigoid successfully treated with rituximab
Authors: Flores‐Climente Víctor , Rozas‐Muñoz Eduardo , Martínez‐Grau Ainhoa , Aucouturier Françoise , Luna Sabina , Baselga Eulalia
Published: August 2019

Ocular mucous membrane pemphigoid (MMP) is a chronic autoimmune blistering disease that usually affects elderly patients being extremely rare in pediatric population. Despite aggressive immunosuppressive therapy, ocular MMP may progress causing significant morbidity. Herein, we describe a toddler with ocular MMP successfully treated with rituximab.
A business frame perspective on why perceptions of top management's bottom‐line mentality result in employees’ good and bad behaviors
Authors: Babalola Mayowa T. , Greenbaum Rebecca L. , Amarnani Rajiv K. , Shoss Mindy K. , Deng Yingli , Garba Omale A. , Guo Liang
Published: August 2019

Emerging research suggests that bottom‐line mentalities (BLMs) (i.e., a sole focus on bottom‐line outcomes to the exclusion of other considerations) can have dysfunctional consequences within the workplace. However, research has yet to consider how and why BLMs may result in both beneficial and dysfunctional organizational outcomes. In the present research, we examine employees’ perceptions of top management's BLM as a type of business frame that results in two cognitive states. Under the influence of this business frame, employees may adopt a mental preoccupation with work (i.e., a state of ongoing work‐related cognitions) that propels beneficial employee outcomes by reducing customer incivility and enhancing customer service performance. Yet, also in response to top management's high BLM as a business frame, employees may adopt self‐interest cognitions (i.e., a cognitive state of self‐interest) that instigate customer‐directed unethical conduct. Across two field studies, we found general support for our hypotheses. Taken together, our findings suggest that perceptions of top management's high BLM can be a mixed blessing in that it may drive employees to adopt focused work efforts (mental preoccupation with work), but also self‐interest cognitions, with each cognitive state predicting beneficial or dysfunctional behaviors. We discuss the implications of these findings and directions for future research.
Perpetration of sibling aggression and sibling relationship quality in emerging adulthood
Authors: Tucker Corinna J. , Sharp Erin H. , Van Gundy Karen T. , Rebellon Cesar
Published: August 2019

This study examined how emerging adults' perpetration of aggression toward a sibling closest in age was longitudinally associated with their sibling relationship quality. Emerging adults (N = 143; Mage = 19.62; 70% female) completed surveys online or by mail at two time points, 4 years apart. Of emerging adults, 25% perpetrated aggression against their closest‐in‐age sibling. Perpetration of sibling aggression was predictive 4 years later of less sibling warmth, involvement, and emotional help. None of the interactions with gender and sibling gender was significant. This study's findings demonstrate the importance of examining the consequences of perpetration of aggressive behavior toward a sibling for sibling relationship quality in emerging adulthood.
Species‐specific responses to wetland mitigation among amphibians in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Authors: Swartz Leah K. , Lowe Winsor H. , Muths Erin L. , Hossack Blake R.
Published: August 2019

Habitat loss and degradation are leading causes of biodiversity declines, therefore assessing the capacity of created mitigation wetlands to replace habitat for wildlife has become a management priority. We used single season occupancy models to compare the occurrence of larvae of four species of pond‐breeding amphibians in wetlands created for mitigation, wetlands impacted by road construction, and unimpacted reference wetlands along a highway corridor in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, United States. Created wetlands were shallow and had less aquatic vegetation and surface area than impacted and reference wetlands. Occupancy of barred tiger salamander (Ambystoma mavortium) and boreal chorus frog (Pseudacris maculata) larvae was similar across wetland types, whereas boreal toads (Anaxyrus boreas) occurred more often in created wetlands than reference and impacted wetlands. However, the majority of created wetlands (>80%) dried partially or completely before amphibian metamorphosis occurred in both years of our study, resulting in heavy mortality of larvae and, we suspect, little to no recruitment. Columbia spotted frogs (Rana luteiventris), which require emergent vegetation that is not common in newly created wetlands, occurred commonly in impacted and reference wetlands but were found in only one created wetland. Our results show that shallow created wetlands with little aquatic vegetation may be attractive breeding areas for some amphibians, but may result in high mortality and little recruitment if they fail to hold water for the entire larval period.
Toll‐like receptors: The role in bladder cancer development, progression and immunotherapy
Authors: Ohadian Moghadam Solmaz , Nowroozi Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2019

Bladder cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The main immune mechanisms which lead to bladder cancer development or treatment outcomes have yet to be elucidated. Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) play key roles against cancer. TLRs are expressed both on immune cells and on tumour cells and drive immune responses in progression as well as treatment of cancer. Identification of signalling pathways via TLRs could revolutionize further improvement of therapeutic strategies against cancers in the future. According to the recent studies, TLRs agonists are effective immunostimulants and have important role in induction of immune responses with immunotherapeutic potential against several diseases including cancer. They play an important role in the bladder urothelium as a part of immune defence against uropathogens. On the other hand, decreased TLRs expression was found in bladder tumours, particularly in non‐muscle‐invasive ones. Bacillus Calmette‐Guerin (BCG) (agonist of TLR2 and TLR4) is approved by US FDA for immunotherapy of bladder cancer. Despite high efficiency, immunotherapy with BCG may cause toxicity and adverse effects. Nowadays, in vitro and in vivo studies have been conducted to find alternative options for non‐responder patients. Studies on TLR agonists for bladder cancer treatment have shown promising results. In this review, we discuss recent data about mechanisms played by TLRs in bladder cancer developments as well as therapeutic application of TLR agonists in cancer treatment.
Partial sequence analyses of exon 7 of the ABO locus of cynomolgus (Macaca fascicularis) and rhesus (M. mulatta) macaques: Indeterminate phenotypes show the presence of the O blood group
Authors: Kanthaswamy Sreetharan , Oldt Robert F. , Said Ruweida , Grijalva Jose , Falak Asiya , Jensen Ashley , Vizor Choice , Houghton Paul , Bunlungsup Srichan , Malaivijitnond Suchinda , Smith David G.
Published: August 2019

Compatibility tests to identify A, B, and O alleles are critical for establishing suitable donor‐recipient matches among experimental animals. Using a qPCR‐based SNP probe assay, we have identified A, B, AB, and indeterminate blood group phenotypes in cynomolgus and rhesus macaques. We have hypothesized, albeit without molecular confirmation, that the indeterminate phenotype represents homozygosity for the null O allele at the macaque ABO locus. The indeterminate phenotype represents the unsuccessful detection of either A or B alleles using primers targeting the A‐specific and B‐specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a variable region of exon 7 of the ABO locus. These SNPs are associated with two functional sites, detected using two allele‐specific probes in the qPCR assay where the codons leucine and methionine (at codon 266) and glycine and alanine (at codon 268) are required for the synthesis of the A and B transferases, respectively. While reference sequences for the A and B alleles exhibited no novel mutations in the functional exon, plasmid Sanger sequence analyses showed unique mutations within the diagnostic target sites in 10 macaques exhibiting the indeterminate phenotype. Eight of these indeterminate individuals exhibited SNPs at codon 268 that should prevent the syntheses of an A or B transferase. While the two other indeterminate samples had functional codons that were consistent with A or B alleles, mutations in either their probe‐ or primer‐binding sites that altered their peptide sequences probably impeded their detection by our assay.
MiR‐199a‐3p modulates the function of dendritic cells involved in transplantation tolerance by targeting CD86
Authors: Xiong Ali , Wang Jing , Mao Xiao Li , Jiang Yi , Fan Yue
Published: August 2019

Dendritic cells (DCs) are key components of the immune system, serving as antigen‐presenting cells to activate adaptive immunity. Whereas mature DCs promote immune responses, immature DCs induce or maintain immunological tolerance by downregulating T‐cell responses. Therefore, DCs are potent antigen (Ag)‐presenting cells in the immune system. MicroRNAs are noncoding RNAs that posttranscriptionally regulate mRNA by binding the 3′‐untranslated region (UTR) of these molecules, modulating their expression. Many recent studies have suggested a potential role of miRNAs in DCs maturation and differentiation, but the exact mechanisms governing this process are unclear. How and whether miR‐199a‐3p affects DC maturation has not been investigated. Here, we found that MiR‐199a‐3p levels are correlated with DC maturation, inflammatory cytokine secretion, and PI3K/AKT/NF‐κB signaling pathway activity. In addition, we analyzed the stimulation of regulatory T‐cells by DCs. Through this work, we determined CD86 to be targeted by miR‐199a‐3p, thereby linking it to DC maturation. miR‐199a‐3p therefore directly inhibits CD86 expression via 3′‐UTR targeting, subsequently prolonging allograft survival in a mouse heart transplantation model. miR‐199a‐3p over‐expression may therefore be a potential therapeutic strategy for use in organ transplantation or patients with autoimmune diseases.
Retrospective evaluation of factors associated with degree of esophagitis, treatment, and outcomes in dogs presenting with esophageal foreign bodies (2004–2014): 114 cases
Authors: Bongard Abigail B. , Furrow Eva , Granick Jennifer L.
Published: August 2019

Objective

To characterize a population of dogs presenting for esophageal foreign body removal and evaluate factors associated with degree of esophagitis and minor and major complications.

Design

Retrospective evaluation of dogs who presented for esophageal foreign body removal between January 2004 and December 2014.

Setting

University veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals

Data collected from 114 dogs included signalment, history, clinical signs, physical examination findings, duration and location of foreign body, degree of esophagitis, foreign body removal success, feeding tube placement, and clinical outcomes. Owners were contacted for outcome data not available in the medical record. Data were analyzed for breed predispositions, whether duration or type of foreign body was associated with degree of esophagitis or complications, and factors associated with feeding tube placement.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

The overall success rate for foreign body removal via esophagoscopy was 95% with a complication rate of 22%. Small breed dogs were overrepresented. Dogs with a foreign body present for >24 h were significantly more likely to have severe esophagitis (P< 0.001) and major complications (P= 0.0044). Foreign body type did not predict degree of esophagitis or complications, though fishhooks were more likely to require surgical removal (P= 0.033). Feeding tubes (15 gastrostomy, 1 nasoesophageal) were placed in 14% of dogs and were more likely to be placed if the foreign body had been present for >24 h (P< 0.001).

Conclusions

Consistent with previous studies, esophageal foreign bodies, appropriately identified and endoscopically removed, carry a good prognosis, particularly if they have been present for ≤24 h.
A pilot study evaluating the effect of mannitol and hypertonic saline solution in the treatment of increased intracranial pressure in 2 cats and 1 dog naturally affected by traumatic brain injury
Authors: Ballocco Isabella , Evangelisti Maria Antonietta , Deiana Roberta , Cubeddu Francesca , Pinna Parpaglia Maria Luisa , Serra Giovanna , Carta Giovanni , Manunta Maria Lucia
Published: August 2019

Objective

To evaluate the effects of iso‐osmolar doses of 18% mannitol and 3% sodium chloride (NaCl) solutions in decreasing intracranial pressure (ICP) in animals with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Design

Prospective uncontrolled interventional study.

Setting

Veterinary university teaching hospital.

Animals

Two cats and 1 dog with TBI with a modified Glasgow Coma Scale score ≤8 after hemodynamic stabilization, and with brain magnetic resonance imaging changes suggestive of intracranial hypertension.

Interventions

Animals were surgically instrumented for direct ICP measurement, then randomly treated with iso‐osmolar doses of 18% mannitol or 3% NaCl. Direct ICP and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) were recorded both before treatment and for 120 minutes following drug administration.

Measurements and Main Results

Direct ICP and CPP were recorded both before treatment and at 5 additional time points following administration over the subsequent 120 minutes. Case 1 received 3% NaCl without any response to therapy; refractory posttraumatic hypertension was suspected. Case 2 was treated with 3% NaCl; ICP decreased by 40.7% and CPP increased by 15%; however, these effects were transient. Case 3 received 18% mannitol, and ICP decreased by 19% and CPP increased to normal. However, there was a rebound increase in ICP that was higher than pretreatment values, and CPP decreased slightly before it gradually increased to normal values towards the end of the study.

Conclusions

Both mannitol and hypertonic saline decrease ICP and improve CPP, but the effect observed in this pilot study suggests that there might be differences in the duration of these effects. Appropriately designed studies in a larger and homogeneous population are warranted to further investigate these findings.
Liquidity and The Profitability of Manufacturing Firms in Nigeria
Authors: AKINLEYE Gideon Tayo , OGUNLEYE Joseph Segun
Published: August 2019

This study examined the relationship between liquidity and profitability of manufacturing firms in Nigeria. The study specifically analyzed the effect of cash ratio, current ratio and quick ratio on profit after tax of the manufacturing firms in Nigeria. Secondary data were collected from annual reports of sampled firms over a period of ten years (2007-2016) and were analyzed using panel data estimators such as pooled OLS estimator, fixed effect estimator, random effect estimator, Hausman test, panel co-integration and pooled granger causality tests. The findings revealed that financial liquidity proxy in terms of quick ratio (QR) had a negative and insignificant impact on profit after tax with coefficient estimate of -0.094121 (p=0.2247 > 0.05). Financial liquidity measured in terms of Cash ratio (CR) exert positive and significant impact on profit after tax with coefficient estimate of 0.379774 (p=0.0121< 0.05). Result also showed that financial liquidity measured in terms of Current ratio (CNR) exert insignificant negative impact on profit after tax with coefficient estimate of -0.024989 (p=0.1163 > 0.05). Meanwhile the study revealed that quick ratio (QR), cash ratio (CR) and current ratio (CNR) has 0.581533 (58.1%) variation in profit after tax (PAT). Result further revealed that that there is no long-run relationship between liquidity and profitability of manufacturing firms in Nigeria. The study concluded that financial liquidity has helped to improve financial performance selected manufacturing firms in Nigeria. Also, that cash ratio has positive and significant effect on the profitability of manufacturing Firms in Nigeria. Thus, firms in the manufacturing industry should objectively try to reduce their bill receivable, so as to guide against waiting longer to collect from customers, for the purpose of increasing their profitability.
Precapillary pulmonary gas exchange is similar for oxygen and inert gases
Authors: Stickland Michael K. , Tedjasaputra Vincent , Fuhr Desi P. , Wagner Harrieth E. , Collins Sophie É. , Byers Bradley W. , Wagner Peter D. , Hopkins Susan R.
Published: August 2019

Key points

Precapillary gas exchange for oxygen has been documented in both humans and animals.

It has been suggested that, if precapillary gas exchange occurs to a greater extent for inert gases than for oxygen, shunt and its effects on arterial oxygenation may be underestimated by the multiple inert gas elimination technique (MIGET).

We evaluated fractional precapillary gas exchange in canines for O2 and two inert gases, sulphur hexafluoride and ethane, by measuring these gases in the proximal pulmonary artery, distal pulmonary artery (1 cm proximal to the wedge position) and systemic artery.

Some 12–19% of pulmonary gas exchange occurred within small (1.7 mm in diameter or larger) pulmonary arteries and this was quantitatively similar for oxygen, sulphur hexafluoride and ethane.

Under these experimental conditions, this suggests only minor effects of precapillary gas exchange on the magnitude of calculated shunt and the associated effect on pulmonary gas exchange estimated by MIGET.

Some pulmonary gas exchange is known to occur proximal to the pulmonary capillary, although the magnitude of this gas exchange is uncertain, and it is unclear whether oxygen and inert gases are similarly affected. This has implications for measuring shunt and associated gas exchange consequences. By measuring respiratory and inert gas levels in the proximal pulmonary artery (P), a distal pulmonary artery 1 cm proximal to the wedge position (using a 5‐F catheter) (D) and a systemic artery (A), we evaluated precapillary gas exchange in 27 paired samples from seven anaesthetized, ventilated canines. Fractional precapillary gas exchange (F) was quantified for each gas as F = (P – D)/(P – A). The lowest solubility inert gases, sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) and ethane were used because, with higher solubility gases, the P–A difference is sufficiently small that experimental error prevents accurate assessment of F. Distal samples (n = 12) with oxygen (O2) saturation values that were (within experimental error) equal to or above systemic arterial values, suggestive of retrograde capillary blood aspiration, were discarded, leaving 15 for analysis. D was significantly lower than P for SF6 (D/P = 88.6 ± 18.1%; P = 0.03) and ethane (D/P = 90.6 ± 16.0%; P = 0.04), indicating partial excretion of inert gas across small pulmonary arteries. Distal pulmonary arterial O2 saturation was significantly higher than proximal (74.1 ± 6.8% vs. 69.0 ± 4.9%; P = 0.03). Fractional precapillary gas exchange was similar for SF6, ethane and O2 (0.12 ± 0.19, 0.12 ± 0.20 and 0.19 ± 0.26, respectively; P = 0.54). Under these experimental conditions, 12–19% of pulmonary gas exchange occurs within the small pulmonary arteries and the extent is similar between oxygen and inert gases.
A biosonar model of finless porpoise (Neophocaena phocaenoides) for material composition discrimination of cylinders
Authors: Feng Wen , Zhang Yu , Wei Chong
Published: August 2019

Research into the physical mechanism of odontocetes biosonar has made great progress in the past several decades, especially on wave propagation and biosonar beam formation in the foreheads of odontocetes. Although a number of experimental studies have been performed, the physical mechanism of odontocetes underwater target discrimination has not yet been fully understood. Previous research has experimentally studied the finless porpoise's target discrimination using cylinders different in material [Nakahara, Takemura, Koido, and Hiruda (1997). Mar. Mamm. Sci. 13(4), 639–649]. The authors proposed a computed tomography based finite element biosonar model to simulate the detailed process of a finless porpoise click emission and target detection in order to gain a further understanding of the underlying physical mechanism. The numerical solutions of resonance features of both steel and acrylic cylinders in this study are very consistent with the analytic solutions. Furthermore, the simulated outgoing clicks and echoes match the experiment results measured by Nakahara et al. The beam patterns of the scattered field were extracted and the resonance features of cylinders in different materials were analyzed. This method in this study could be used to study some other odontocetes that are inaccessible for experimental work and could also provide physical information for intelligent biomimetic underwater signal processors design.
Rowing Over the Edge: Nonfunctional Overreaching and Overtraining Syndrome as Maladjustment—Diagnosis and Treatment From a Psychological Perspective
Authors: Birrer Daniel
Published: August 2019

A rigorous training schedule with insufficient recovery can lead to nonfunctional overreaching (NFOR) or overtraining syndrome (OTS). Research has suggested the multifactorial etiology of these phenomena. Stressors that contribute to and are symptoms and consequences of NFOR and OTS and adjustment disorder are almost identical. In this case study of an elite rower, the author illustrates an intervention approach that can be taken when overtraining is viewed as a sport-specific form of adjustment disorder. The intervention involved treatment that improved the athlete’s awareness of his basic biopsychosocial processes, developed sources of self-worth beyond athletic performance, and challenged his 1-dimensional athletic identity. The intervention included cognitive-behavioral therapy methods (e.g., autogenic training) and mindfulness- and acceptance-based interventions to enhance the athlete’s psychological flexibility. Mood monitoring was used as a diagnostic and evaluative instrument. Intervention effectiveness was evaluated through an in-depth interview with the athlete. The consulting sport psychologist also engaged in reflection about treatment effectiveness and predominant challenges. Challenging the athlete and clarifying his personal values were judged to be very important. Evaluation suggested that viewing NFOR and OTS as forms of adjustment disorder may help us recognize the multifaceted nature of an athlete’s maladjusted state and widen treatment options.
20S Proteasome as a Drug Target in Trichomonas vaginalis
Authors: O’Donoghue Anthony J. , Bibo-Verdugo Betsaida , Miyamoto Yukiko , Wang Steven C , Yang Justin Z. , Zuill Douglas E. , Matsuka Shoun , Jiang Zhenze , Almaliti Jehad , Caffrey Conor R. , Gerwick William H. , Eckmann Lars
Published: August 2019

Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease with hundreds of millions of annual cases worldwide. Approved treatment options are limited to two related nitro-heterocyclic compounds, yet resistance to these drugs is an increasing concern. New antimicrobials against the causative agent,Trichomonas vaginalis, are urgently needed.
Bioremediation of Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT)-Contaminated Agricultural Soils: Potential of Two Autochthonous Saprotrophic Fungal Strains
Authors: Russo Fabiana , Ceci Andrea , Pinzari Flavia , Siciliano Antonietta , Guida Marco , Malusà Eligio , Tartanus Małgorzata , Miszczak Artur , Maggi Oriana , Persiani Anna Maria
Published: August 2019

The spread and environmental accumulation of DDT over the years represent not only a threat to human health and ecological security but also a major challenge because of the complex chemical processes and technologies required for remediation. Saprotrophic fungi, isolated from contaminated sites, hold promise for their bioremediation potential toward toxic organic compounds, since they might provide an environment-friendly solution to contamination. Once we verified the high tolerance of autochthonous fungal strains to high concentrations of DDT, we showed how fungi from different phyla demonstrate a high metabolic versatility in the presence of DDT. The isolates showed the singular ability to keep their functionality, despite the DDT-induced production of reactive oxygen species.
PQS Produced by the Pseudomonas aeruginosa Stress Response Repels Swarms Away from Bacteriophage and Antibiotics
Authors: Bru Jean-Louis , Rawson Brandon , Trinh Calvin , Whiteson Katrine , Høyland-Kroghsbo Nina Molin , Siryaporn Albert
Published: August 2019

We uncover a phage- and antibiotic-induced stress response in the clinically important opportunistic pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosa. Phage-infectedP. aeruginosasubpopulations are isolated from uninfected subpopulations by the production of a stress-induced signal. Activation of the stress response by antibiotics causesP. aeruginosato physically be repelled from the area containing antibiotics altogether, consistent with a mechanism of antibiotic evasion. The stress response observed here could increaseP. aeruginosaresilience against antibiotic treatment and phage therapy in health care settings, as well as provide a simple evolutionary strategy to avoid areas containing stress.
Dynamic Relay of Protein-Bound Lipoic Acid in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Teoh Wei Ping , Resko Zachary J. , Flury Sarah , Alonzo Francis
Published: August 2019

Protein lipoylation is a posttranslational modification that is evolutionarily conserved from bacteria to humans. Lipoic acid modifications are found on five proteins in
S. aureus
, four of which are components of major metabolic enzymes. In some bacteria, the amidotransferase LipL is critical for the attachment of lipoic acid to these proteins, and yet it is unclear to what extent LipL facilitates the transfer of this cofactor. We find that
S. aureus
LipL flexibly shuttles lipoic acid among metabolic enzyme subunits, alluding to a dynamic redistribution mechanism within the bacterial cell. This discovery exemplifies a potential means by which bacteria optimize the use of scarce nutrients when resources are limited.
Frequency and Characteristics of Biological False-Positive Test Results for Syphilis Reported in Florida and New York City, USA, 2013 to 2017
Authors: Matthias James , Klingler Ellen J. , Schillinger Julia A. , Keller Gayle , Wilson Craig , Peterman Thomas A.
Published: August 2019

Discordant syphilis test results, with a reactive nontreponemal test and nonreactive treponemal test are usually considered biological false-positive test results (BFPs), which can be attributed to other conditions. Syphilis surveillance laws mandate laboratory reporting of reactive syphilis tests, which include many BFPs. We describe the frequency of BFPs, titer distributions, and titer increases from reported test results in Florida and New York City (NYC).
Comparing QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus with Other Tests To Diagnose Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Venkatappa Thara K. , Punnoose Rose , Katz Dolly J. , Higgins Michael P. , Banaei Niaz , Graviss Edward A. , Belknap Robert W. , Ho Christine S.
Published: August 2019

The fourth-generation QuantiFERON test for tuberculosis infection, QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT-Plus) has replaced the earlier version, QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT-GIT). A clinical need exists for information about agreement between QFT-Plus and other tests. We conducted this study to assess agreement of test results for QFT-Plus with those of QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube (QFT-GIT), T-SPOT.TB (T-SPOT), and the tuberculin skin test (TST).
The Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Deamidase Enhances Propagation but Is Dispensable for Retrograde Axonal Transport into the Nervous System
Authors: Stults Austin M. , Smith Gregory A.
Published: August 2019

Herpes simplex virus 1 invades the nervous system by entering nerve endings and sustaining long-distance retrograde axonal transport to reach neuronal nuclei in ganglia of the peripheral nervous system. The incoming viral particle carries a deamidase activity on its surface that antagonizes antiviral responses. We examined the contribution of the deamidase to the hallmark neuroinvasive property of this virus.