bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Corruption on Various Forms of Political Participation in Colombia
Authors: Školník Milan
Published: May 2020

In Latin America, corruption may not only disrupt the political scene but also drive citizens to the streets. Focusing on Colombia, this article tests hypotheses regarding the influence of corruption on different forms of political participation. The research considers elections and several other forms of political participation such as meetings and demonstrations. The study also distinguishes between perceptions of corruption and experience with corruption and their respective effects. The results support the conclusion that the perception of corruption among citizens leads to low turnout for certain types of political participation, whereas experience with corruption leads to higher participation.
Not All Indexical Cues Are Equal: Differential Sensitivity to Dimensions of Indexical Meaning in an Artificial Language
Authors: Rácz Péter , Hay Jennifer B. , Pierrehumbert Janet B.
Published: May 2020

In this study, we investigated the learning of indexical features by English‐speaking adults using a novel experimental paradigm. In a conceptual replication of Rácz, Hay, and Pierrehumbert (2017), participants learned an allomorphy pattern cued by a given social context. The social contexts were represented by conversation partners who differed by age, ethnicity, and/or gender and were positioned in various ways. The results showed that, after training, the participants were able to learn that different types of conversation partners prefer different types of allomorphs but that learning and generalization hinged on the social relevance of the cue represented by the conversation partner. These results suggest that the relevance of cues in an individual's past social experience influences their storage and learnability even at very early stages of learning a word pattern.
Structural sensing with deep learning: Strain estimation from acceleration data for fatigue assessment
Authors: Gulgec Nur Sila , Takáč Martin , Pakzad Shamim N.
Published: May 2020

Many of the civil structures experience significant vibrations and repeated stress cycles during their life span. These conditions are the bases for fatigue analysis to accurately establish the remaining fatigue life of the structures that ideally requires a full‐field strain assessment of the structures over years of data collection. Traditional inspection methods collect strain measurements by using strain gauges for a short time span and extrapolate the measurements in time; nevertheless, large‐scale deployment of strain gauges is expensive and laborious as more spatial information is desired. This paper introduces a deep learning‐based approach to replace this high cost by employing inexpensive data coming from acceleration sensors. The proposed approach utilizes collected acceleration responses as inputs to a multistage deep neural network based on long short‐term memory and fully connected layers to estimate the strain responses. The memory requirement of training long acceleration sequences is reduced by proposing a novel training strategy. In the evaluation of the method, a laboratory‐scale horizontally curved girder subjected to various loading scenarios is tested.
A Plasmodium homolog of ER tubule‐forming proteins is required for parasite virulence
Authors: Shi Xiaoyu , Hai Lei , Govindasamy Kavitha , Gao Jian , Coppens Isabelle , Hu Junjie , Wang Qian , Bhanot Purnima
Published: May 2020

Reticulon and REEP family of proteins stabilize the high curvature of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) tubules. Plasmodium berghei Yop1 (PbYop1) is a REEP5 homolog in Plasmodium. Here, we characterize its function using a gene‐knockout (Pbyop1∆). Pbyop1∆ asexual stage parasites display abnormal ER architecture and an enlarged digestive vacuole. The erythrocytic cycle of Pbyop1∆ parasites is severely attenuated and the incidence of experimental cerebral malaria is significantly decreased in Pbyop1∆‐infected mice. Pbyop1∆ sporozoites have reduced speed, are slower to invade host cells but give rise to equal numbers of infected HepG2 cells, as WT sporozoites. We propose that PbYOP1’s disruption may lead to defects in trafficking and secretion of a subset of proteins required for parasite development and invasion of erythrocytes. Furthermore, the maintenance of ER morphology in different parasite stages is likely to depend on different proteins.
Legacy effects of nitrogen and phosphorus additions on vegetation and carbon stocks of upland heaths
Authors: van Paassen José G. , Britton Andrea J. , Mitchell Ruth J. , Street Lorna E. , Johnson David , Coupar Andrew , Woodin Sarah J.
Published: May 2020

Soil carbon (C) pools and plant community composition are regulated by nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) availability. Atmospheric N deposition impacts ecosystem C storage, but the direction of response varies between systems. Phosphorus limitation may constrain C storage response to N, hence P application to increase plant productivity and thus C sequestration has been suggested.

We revisited a 23‐yr‐old field experiment where N and P had been applied to upland heath, a widespread habitat supporting large soil C stocks. At 10 yr after the last nutrient application we quantified long‐term changes in vegetation composition and in soil and vegetation C and P stocks.

Nitrogen addition, particularly when combined with P, strongly influenced vegetation composition, favouring grasses over Calluna vulgaris, and led to a reduction in vegetation C stocks. However, soil C stocks did not respond to nutrient treatments. We found 40% of the added P had accumulated in the soil.

This study showed persistent effects of N and N + P on vegetation composition, whereas effects of P alone were small and showed recovery. We found no indication that P application could mitigate the effects of N on vegetation or increase C sequestration in this system.
Role of MicroRNA, LncRNA, and Exosomes in the Progression of Osteoarthritis: A Review of Recent Literature
Authors: Xie Fang , Liu Yong‐li , Chen Xiu‐yuan , Li Qian , Zhong Jia , Dai Bin‐yu , Shao Xian‐fang , Wu Guan‐bao
Published: May 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common clinical degenerative disease characterized by the destruction of articular cartilage, which has an increasing impact on people's lives and social economy. The pathogenesis of OA is complex and unclear, and there is no effective way to block its progress. The study of the pathogenesis of OA is the prerequisite for the early diagnosis and effective treatment of OA. To define the pathogenesis of OA, this review considers the pathological mechanism of OA that involves microRNA, lncRNA, and exosomes. More and more evidence shows that microRNA, lncRNA, and exosomes are closely related to OA. MicroRNA inhibits the target gene by binding to the 3′‐ untranslated region of the targets. LncRNA usually competes with microRNA to regulate the expression level of downstream genes, while exosomes, as a carrier of intercellular information transfer, transmit the biological information of mother cells to target cells, and the effect of exosomes secreted by different cells on OA are different. In this review, we emphasized that different microRNA, lncRNA, and exosomes have different regulatory effects on chondrocyte proliferation and apoptosis, extracellular matrix degradation and inflammation. Besides, we classified and analyzed these molecules according to their effects on the progress of OA. Based on the analysis of the reported literature, this review reveals some pathogenesis of OA, and emphasizes that microRNA, lncRNA, and exosomes have great potential to assist early diagnosis and effective treatment of OA.
The transcription factor ZmNAC126 accelerates leaf senescence downstream of the ethylene signalling pathway in maize
Authors: Yang Zhen , Wang Chaoqi , Qiu Kai , Chen Huiru , Li Zhongpeng , Li Xin , Song Jiangbo , Wang Xiaolei , Gao Jiong , Kuai Benke , Zhou Xin
Published: May 2020

Leaf senescence is an integral part of plant development, during which, nutrients are remobilized from senescent leaves to fast‐growing organs. The initiation and progression dynamics of leaf senescence is therefore vital not only to the maximal accumulation of assimilates but also to the efficient remobilization of nutrients. Senescence is a finely tuned process that involves the action of a large number of transcription factors (TFs). The NAC TFs play critical roles in regulating leaf senescence in Arabidopsis, wheat, rice and tomato. Here, we identified a NAC TF, ZmNAC126 that is responsive to leaf senescence in maize. Ectopic overexpression of ZmNAC126 in Arabidopsis and maize enhanced chlorophyll degradation and promoted leaf senescence. Electrophoretic mobility shift and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed that ZmNAC126 could directly bind to the promoters of major chlorophyll catabolic genes in maize. Dual‐luciferase assay in maize protoplasts indicated that ZmNAC126 positively regulates these chlorophyll catabolic genes in maize. Moreover, ZmNAC126 could be induced by ethylene, and ZmEIN3, a major TF of ethylene signalling, could bind to its promoter to transactivate its expression. Taken together, ZmNAC126 may play a pivotal role in regulating natural and ethylene‐triggered leaf senescence in maize.
Esophageal atresia: Associated anomalies, mortality, and morbidity in Jordan
Authors: Badran Eman F , Kamal Waseem , Yaseen Aseel , Abbad Aseel , Al‐Lawama Manar , Khdair Ahmad Fareed , Al‐ Momani Hashem , Salim Omari Mohammad
Published: May 2020

Background

Esophageal atresia is a developmental disorder in which the upper and lower esophagus fail to connect. It has an estimated prevalence of 1 in 2,500–4,500 live births and has poorer outcomes in low‐ and middle‐income countries than in high‐income countries. This study focused on the disorder’s epidemiology, morbidity, and mortality in Jordan to address the lack of data regarding esophageal atresia in this country.

Methods

This was a retrospective study covering a 16‐year period at a tertiary care academic hospital. Data were extracted from archived medical records and operative notes. All patients who had complete congenital esophageal atresia data were included. In total, the records of 55 patients were analyzed.

Results

Of the included patients, 9% were diagnosed prenatally and 47% were diagnosed with polyhydramnios. The mean gestational age was 37 weeks, the mean birthweight was 2,550 g, and 60% of patients were male. Isolated cases of esophageal atresia were reported in 58.2% of patients. There was a high rate of associated congenital anomalies (41.8%), with cardiac lesions the most common (20%), and 5.5% were syndromic. Parental consanguinity was found in 18.2% of patients. Postoperative surgical‐related morbidities included stricture (18/24; 75%) and leakage (5/24; 20.8%). Fistula recurrence occurred in one patient (4.2%). The mortality rate was 12.8%.

Conclusion

Esophageal atresia causes a high rate of mortality and exhibits post‐operative morbidities. Moreover, associated anomalies were frequently observed. A high level of the malformation was found among offspring from consanguineous marriages.
Suppression of autumnal sexual morph production in spring by a seasonal timer in an aphid
Authors: Matsuda Naoki , Kanbe Takashi , Endo Jun , Akimoto Shin‐Ichi , Numata Hideharu
Published: May 2020

Photoperiod is the major seasonal cue for phenotypic plasticity in the regulation of development and reproduction. Aphids have a peculiar mechanism in which sensitivity to the photoperiod is lost for a few months through successive generations after hatching from diapause eggs, and therefore, the mechanism responsible for the photorefractory period is termed “a seasonal timer”. However, whether the seasonal timer has adaptive significance has never been investigated. Here, we show that the photorefractory generation avoids an unseasonal sexual morph production under short days in spring in the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris). When the seasonal timer operated, the overwintered generation, stem mothers, produced only parthenogenetic progenies under natural photoperiods and temperatures in both warm and cold springs. After repeated parthenogenesis following diapause, however, aphids with an expired seasonal timer produced sexual females and males typical of autumn under natural photoperiods and temperatures in a warm spring. These sexual morphs are thought to have a reproductive disadvantage compared to parthenogenetic morphs in the following summer. We thus conclude that the seasonal timer is adaptive for avoiding sexual morph production in spring. The present study shows, for the first time, that a photorefractory period lasting over generations is a trait of ecological importance.
Effect of sex, age and morphological traits on tethered flight of Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae) at different temperatures
Authors: Makumbe Louisa D. M. , Moropa Thabang P. , Manrakhan Aruna , Weldon Christopher W.
Published: May 2020

The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae), is a pest of fruit and vegetable production that has become established in 42 countries in Africa after its first detection in 2003 in Kenya. It is likely that this rapid expansion is partly due to the reported strong capacity for flight by the pest. This study investigated the tethered flight performance of B. dorsalis over a range of constant temperatures in relation to sex and age. Tethered flight of unmated B. dorsalis aged 3, 10 and 21 days was recorded for 1 h using a computerized flight mill at temperatures of 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32 and 36 °C. Variations in fly morphology were observed as they aged. Body mass and wing loading increased with age, whereas wing length and wing area reduced as flies aged. Females had slightly larger wings than males but were not significantly heavier. The longest total distance flown by B. dorsalis in 1 h was 1559.58 m. Frequent short, fast flights were recorded at 12 and 36 °C, but long‐distance flight was optimal between 20 and 24 °C. Young flies tended to have shorter flight bouts than older flies, which was associated with them flying shorter distances. Heavier flies with greater wing loading flew further than lighter flies. Flight distances recorded on flight mills approximated those recorded in the field, and tethered flight patterns suggest a need to factor temperature into the interpretation of trap captures.
Partial differential equations admitting a given nonclassical point symmetry
Authors: Pucci Edvige , Saccomandi Giuseppe
Published: May 2020

Given a local one parameter Lie group of transformations G, we determine the most general scalar partial differential equation in (1 + 1)‐independent variables of a given order admitting G as nonclassical symmetry in the Bluman and Cole sense.
The immune microenvironment in typical carcinoid lung tumour, a brief report of four cases
Authors: Stankovic Branislava , Aamodt Henrik , Bjørhovde Heidi Anine Korsmo , Müller Elisabeth , Hammarström Clara , Brustugun Odd Terje , Helland Åslaug , Øynebråten Inger , Corthay Alexandre
Published: May 2020

Pulmonary typical carcinoid (TC) is a low‐grade, rare lung cancer of neuroendocrine origin. Currently, there is very little information available about the immune cell composition in TC tumours. Here, we analysed by flow cytometry resected tumours from four never‐smoker female patients with TC. Twelve distinct immune cell types were identified in TC tumours. The most abundant immune cells were CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, B cells and macrophages, which represented 19.8%, 17.7%, 11.5% and 11% of all tumour‐infiltrating CD45+ leucocytes, respectively. Natural killer (NK) cells (8.8%) and neutrophils (3.9%) were also common. Three types of dendritic cells (DCs) were identified (plasmacytoid DCs, CD1c  DCs, and CD141  DCs) which together constituted 1.4% of all immune cells in TC tumours. Small populations of basophils (1.2%), mast cells (0.8%) and eosinophils (0.6%) were also present. Notably, the percentage of leucocytes (of all living cells) was much lower in TC tumours compared to high‐grade non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumours and also compared to non‐cancerous lung tissue. We conclude that TC tumours are relatively non‐inflammatory, although the immune landscape was found to be very complex.
‘A Woman in Charge of a Farm’: French Women Farmers Challenge Hegemonic Femininity
Authors: Annes Alexis , Wright Wynne , Larkins Michelle
Published: May 2020

Using data derived from a study focusing on women in southwest France who performed value‐added agriculture, we question to what extent women’s involvement in a male‐dominated occupation, such as farming, provides a context for them to resist normative expectations of hegemonic femininity and to perform alternative forms of femininity. Our findings demonstrate that hegemonic femininity is being challenged and alternative femininities are emerging. Data show both examples of challenges to and compliances with hegemonic femininity. Consequently, we argue that value‐added agriculture might create a space to construct alternative femininities by relying upon the commodification of traditional gender roles and recognising the importance of skills such as farm management, commercialisation and marketing strategies. However, the emergence of alternative femininities, as well as the degree to which these forms of femininity depart from hegemonic femininity, might be contingent upon different interrelated factors such as age, marital status, and farm background. These findings indicate that rural femininity can take different forms and stress the importance of querying gender differences among women themselves in order to accurately portray changing gender dynamics in agriculture.
Utilising red cell antigen genotyping and serological phenotyping in sickle cell disease patients to risk‐stratify patients for alloimmunisation risk
Authors: Shih Andrew W. , Yan Matthew T.S. , Elahie Allahna L. , Barty Rebecca L. , Liu Yang , Berardi Philip , Azzam Mona , Siddiqui Reda , Parvizian Michael K. , Mcdougall Tara , Heddle Nancy M. , Al‐Habsi Khalid S. , Goldman Mindy , Cote Jacqueline , Athale Uma , Verhovsek Madeleine M.
Published: May 2020

Background

Alloimmunisation and haemolytic transfusion reactions (HTRs) can occur in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD) despite providing phenotype‐matched red blood cell (RBC) transfusions. Variant RBC antigen gene alleles/polymorphisms can lead to discrepancies in serological phenotyping. We evaluated differences between RBC antigen genotyping and phenotyping methods and retrospectively assessed if partial antigen expression may lead to increased risk of alloimmunisation and HTRs in SCD patients at a tertiary centre in Canada.

Methods

RBC antigen phenotyping and genotyping were performed by a reference laboratory on consenting SCD patients. Patient demographic, clinical and transfusion‐related data were obtained from a local transfusion registry and chart review after research ethics board approval.

Results

A total of 106 SCD patients were enrolled, and 91% (n = 96) showed additional clinically relevant genotyping information when compared to serological phenotyping alone. FY*02N.01 (FY*B GATA‐1) (n = 95; 90%) and RH variant alleles (n = 52, 49%; majority accompanied by FY*02N.01) were common, the latter with putative partial antigen expression in 25 patients. Variability in genotype‐phenotype antigen prediction occurred mostly in the Rh system, notably with the e antigen (kappa: 0.17). Fifteen (14.2%) patients had a history of alloimmunisation, with five having HTR documented; no differences in clinical outcomes were found in patients with partial antigen expression. Genotype/extended‐phenotype matching strategies may have prevented alloimmunisation events.

Conclusion

We show a high frequency of variant alleles/polymorphisms in the SCD population, where genotyping may complement serological phenotyping. Genotyping SCD patients before transfusion may prevent alloimmunisation and HTRs, and knowledge of the FY*02N.01 variant allele increases feasibility of finding compatible blood.
The spirit in the machine: Towards a spiritual geography of debt bondage and labour (im)mobility in Cambodian brick kilns
Authors: Parsons Laurie , Brickell Katherine
Published: May 2020

This paper draws on evidence from debt bonded brick workers in Cambodia to explore how animism and formal religion are articulated to retain workers in dangerous and difficult conditions. The paper shows first how factory labourers, owners, and local religious figures actively articulate spiritual beliefs by legitimising workers’ confinement to the kiln through moral recourse to Buddhist notions of merit, character, and destiny. Secondly, it shows how informal animist beliefs play a key role in shaping interpretations of, and responses to, the extreme physical conditions of the kilns. Thus, by exploring how superstition and religious beliefs work to co‐constitute labour (im)mobility in the country’s brick kilns, it makes a case for linking the geographies of labour, mobilities, and spirituality. More broadly, by highlighting the role of locally articulated spirituality in immobilising workers, our paper provides a counterpoint to predominant narratives of spiritual and animist agency as resistance, demonstrating instead how such agency may serve in the workplace as a means of coercion, restriction and control.
Vitamin D status is seasonally stable in northern European dogs
Authors: Hurst Emma A. , Homer Natalie Z. , Gow Adam G. , Clements Dylan N. , Evans Helen , Gaylor Donna , Campbell Susan , Handel Ian , Mellanby Richard J.
Published: May 2020

Background

Numerous studies in veterinary species have recently linked vitamin D status with nonskeletal health disorders. Previous studies have indicated that dogs cannot produce endogenous vitamin D via cutaneous production and rely solely on dietary intake of vitamin D. The seasonal variation of vitamin D seen in humans due to changes in ultraviolet (UV) exposure, therefore, is unlikely to be replicated in these animals.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to investigate the natural variation in 25‐hydroxyvitamin‐D concentrations in dogs subject to seasonal UV exposure.

Methods

This longitudinal study followed 18 healthy dogs fed a standardized diet over 1 year, with blood samples obtained monthly. Two key vitamin D metabolites, 25‐hydroxyvitamin‐D2 and 25‐hydroxyvitamin‐D3, were assessed by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry in serum samples. Various other biochemical parameters were also measured. Seasonality was assessed using cosinor statistical analysis.

Results

Although the dogs were subject to seasonally varying UV radiation, 25‐hydroxyvitamin‐D and related biomarkers (including calcium and parathyroid hormone) remained stable over time and did not follow a seasonal pattern. 25‐hydroxyvitamin‐D was not positively correlated with exposure to UV radiation. Nonetheless, variation in 25‐hydroxyvitamin‐D concentrations between individual dogs was detected.

Conclusions

Given the standardization of diet, we concluded that the seasonal stability of 25‐hydroxyvitamin‐D concentration (vitamin D status) was likely a direct result of lack of cutaneous vitamin D production in this species and highlights the importance of dietary intake. The variation in 25‐hydroxyvitamin‐D concentration between animals warrants further investigation.
Important Areas of Positive School Climate in the Context of Selected Models
Authors: Blaštíková Lucie
Published: May 2020

This theoretical study focuses on the school climate. In particular, it focuses on the phenomenon of the positive school climate and its specific areas. The aim of the paper is to describe important areas of the positive school climate based on the analysis of selected positive climate models (National School Climate Center, 2017; Rudasill et al., 2017; Thapa, Cohen, & Guffey et al., 2013; Grecmanová, 2008, etc.). The text describes basic concepts, such as classroom climate, learning climate, or teacher staff climate. Primarily, the school climate is defined and a brief description of the factors involved in its creation is provided. Subsequently, the text deals with the terminology concerning the positive climate, as there is a disunity in this area. A significant part of the contribution is devoted to specific models of positive school climate, where, based on various research surveys, areas are defined which are key for the positive climate. In the final part of the paper three important areas of the positive climate are described, which repeatedly appear in the selected models, so they can be considered important.
Theoretical Reflection On The Professional Self-Efficacy of Helping Workers In the Social-Pedagogical Area
Authors: Pavlíčková Jaroslava
Published: May 2020

This paper deals with the topic of self-efficacy in the field of pre-gradual and further social education. It provides an outline of the theoretical background of the concept of self-efficacy and it also introduces selected research on the context of self-efficacy and profession selection. The research in the field of self-efficacy has been in progress for more than three decades. The studies can be found in the databases such as ERIC, PsycINFO and Web of Science and the research shows that the countries dealing with this topic the most frequently are the USA, Germany and Norway. There have been only little interest in this type of research in the area of the helping professions in the Czech Republic. The field of self-efficacy research represents a wide area, therefore, we will focus on a specific and semiprofessional working group of social activation services for the families with children in the social-pedagogical activities. The group selection has been influenced by the change of caretaking process of the children at risk with the focus on elimination of social disadvantage of the whole family.
Teacher Training in France, Outline of its Development and the Latest Reform
Authors: Váňová Miroslava
Published: May 2020

The study deals with the teacher training in France. It gives an overview of its development and focuses in particular on the latest reform carried out in 2013, which has led to the creation of Higher Schools for Professorship and Education (Ecoles supérieures du professorat et de l’éducation) ESPE. These schools prepare students after obtaining their first university degree (licence) for teacher competitions and the professional master's degree in a two-year study program. They are based on the balance between theoretical instruction and internships in schools and other institutions and they provide a common basis of training for all staff in the field of education, giving them also the basis of a common culture.
El tiempo en el área central del laberinto en cruz elevado correlaciona con medidas relacionadas a impulsividad durante una tarea operante
Authors: Rico Javier Leonardo , Hurtado-Parrado Camilo , Vásquez-Sepúlveda Juan , Fonseca Juan , Cardona Ángelo
Published: May 2020

Medidas relacionadas a impulsividad se han obtenido mediante tareas de condicionamiento operante. Aunque se ha sugerido que índices de impulsividad pueden ser también obtenidos usando el laberinto en cruz elevado (LCE), una prueba animal relacionada con ansiedad, ningún estudio ha examinado la relación entre las variables de ansiedad en el LCE e índices de impulsividad obtenidos durante condicionamiento operante. En este estudio se establecieron correlaciones entre medidas del LCE y el desempeño en un programa de reforzamiento de intervalo fijo 60-s (IF 60-s). Diecisiete ratas hembras fueron expuestas la LCE antes de iniciar el entrenamiento en el programa de IF 60-s. Se encontró una correlación positiva entre el porcentaje de tiempo de permanencia en el área central del LCE y tanto el índice de eficiencia como los tiempos entre respuestas en IF. Adicionalmente, estas tres medidas correlacionaron de forma positiva dentro del Factor 1 del análisis factorial. No se observaron correlaciones entre las medidas de los brazos abiertos del LCE y la ejecución operante. Los resultados sugieren que el tiempo en el área central del LCE podría ser un índice útil de impulsividad en roedores sin un perfil predeterminado de impulsividad.
Lithium niobate nanoparticles as biofunctional interface material for inner ear devices
Authors: Danti Serena , Azimi Bahareh , Candito Mariarita , Fusco Alessandra , Sorayani Bafqi Mohammad Sajad , Ricci Claudio , Milazzo Mario , Cristallini Caterina , Latifi Masud , Donnarumma Giovanna , Bruschini Luca , Lazzeri Andrea , Astolfi Laura , Berrettini Stefano
Published: May 2020

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) affects the inner ear compartment and can be caused by different factors. Usually, the lack, death, or malfunction of sensory cells deputed to transduction of mechanic-into-electric signals leads to SNHL. To date, the therapeutic option for patients impaired by severe or profound SNHL is the cochlear implant (CI), a high-tech electronic device replacing the entire cochlear function. Piezoelectric materials have catalyzed attention to stimulate the auditory neurons by simply mimicking the function of the cochlear sensory epithelium. In this study, the authors investigated lithium niobate (LiNbO3) as a potential candidate material for next generation CIs. LiNbO3 nanoparticles resulted otocompatible with inner ear cells in vitro, had a pronounced immunomodulatory activity, enhanced human beta-defensin in epithelial cells, and showed direct antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa. Moreover, LiNbO3 nanoparticles were incorporated into poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoro ethylene) fibers via electrospinning, which enhanced the piezoelectric response. Finally, the resulting fibrous composite structures support human neural-like cell growth in vitro, thus showing promising features to be used in new inner ear devices.
Using discrete low-frequency components of shipping noise for gassy sediment characterization in shallow water
Authors: Lunkov Andrey A. , Katsnelson Boris G.
Published: May 2020

This work shows that normal-mode attenuation coefficients can be extracted from ship noise and used to estimate the sound speed in gas-saturated sediments. In an experiment in the Sea of Galilee, a research vessel served as a noise source approaching a vertical hydrophone array at a constant speed. Twelve narrow-band components of the vessel noise in the frequency band 20–100 Hz were identified and mode filtered to estimate the normal-mode attenuation coefficients. The inversion results indicate that the sound speed in the sediments was approximately 170 m/s.
The Development, Articulation, and Implementation of a Coaching Vision of Multiple Championship–Winning University Ice Hockey Coaches
Authors: Urquhart David A. , Bloom Gordon A. , Loughead Todd M.
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study was to explore the development, articulation, and implementation of a coaching vision and how this created and sustained a culture of excellence. Six multiple championship–winning men’s university ice hockey head coaches were interviewed. Their combined experience consisted of 20 national titles and over 4,100 wins at the university level. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The results indicated that these coaches established a vision that could be separated into three phases: development, articulation, and implementation. Notably, development included the life experiences, personal characteristics, and habits that assisted the development of the coaches’ vision, including apprenticing as an assistant coach. Articulation and implementation involved clearly communicating their vision to athletes, coaches, and personnel who then enacted the vision. Overall, these findings contribute to a better understanding of how championship-winning coaches organize, teach, and articulate their goals through their coaching vision.
A Qualitative Exploration of Immigrant Muslim Older Adults’ Experiences and Perceptions of Physical Activity
Authors: Salma Jordana , Jones Allyson , Ali Savera Aziz , Salami Bukola , Yamamoto Shelby
Published: May 2020

Physical activity is essential for healthy aging; however, there has been little exploration of physical activity in Muslim older immigrants in Canada. Over one million Canadians identify as Muslim, the majority is first-generation immigrants, with increasing cohorts entering older age. A community-based participatory research project on healthy aging was conducted with 68 older adults and community members from South Asian, Arab, and African Muslim ethnocultural communities in a Canadian urban center. A combination of individual interviews and focus groups discussions were completed, followed by thematic analysis of data. Participating community groups emphasized the importance of physical activity in older age and prioritized the need for physical activity programs. The four themes highlight Muslim older immigrants’ perspectives on physical activity in Canada: (a) values and approaches to staying active; (b) health factors: pain and health limitations; (c) social factors: culture, religion, and belonging; and (d) environmental factors: safety and accessibility.
Glutathione dynamics determine the therapeutic efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells for graft-versus-host disease via CREB1-NRF2 pathway
Authors: Lim Jisun , Heo Jinbeom , Ju Hyein , Shin Ji-Woong , Kim YongHwan , Lee Seungun , Yu Hwan Yeul , Ryu Chae-Min , Yun HongDuck , Song Sujin , Hong Ki-Sung , Chung Hyung-Min , Kim Hwa-Ryeon , Roe Jae-Seok , Choi Kihang , Kim In-Gyu , Jeong Eui Man , Shin Dong-Myung
Published: May 2020

Real-time monitoring of GSH dynamics demonstrates the functional roles of CREB1-NRF2 pathway in MSC therapeutic potency.
Engineered algae: A novel oxygen-generating system for effective treatment of hypoxic cancer
Authors: Qiao Yue , Yang Fei , Xie Tingting , Du Zhen , Zhong Danni , Qi Yuchen , Li Yangyang , Li Wanlin , Lu Zhimin , Rao Jianghong , Sun Yi , Zhou Min
Published: May 2020

Engineered living microalgae can relieve tumor hypoxia in situ and sensitize tumor cells to radiation and photodynamic therapies.
In on the ground floor: T cells respond to α-synuclein in preclinical Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Davis Albert A.
Published: May 2020

Analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells demonstrated that α-synuclein–specific T cells are active in preclinical and early Parkinson’s disease.
Beware of monocytes bearing gifts
Authors: Kanakry Christopher G.
Published: May 2020

Monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells accumulate methylglyoxal, which inhibits their metabolic function and can be transferred to CD8
+
T cells.
Transcriptomic Data Sets To Determine Gene Expression Changes Mediated by the Presence of PBT2 in Growth Medium of Multidrug-Resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae WHO Z
Authors: Jen Freda E.-C. , El-Deeb Ibrahim M. , Atack John M. , von Itzstein Mark , Jennings Michael P.
Published: May 2020

Neisseria gonorrhoeae
causes the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea. High-coverage (∼3,300-fold) transcriptome sequencing data have been collected from multidrug-resistant
N. gonorrhoeae
strain WHO Z grown in the presence and absence of PBT2.
Draft Genome Sequence of Lipopeptide-Producing Strain Pseudomonas fluorescens DSM 11579 and Comparative Genomics with
Pseudomonas
sp. Strain SH-C52, a Closely Related Lipopeptide-Producing Strain
Authors: Kirchner Norbert , Cano-Prieto Carolina , van der Voort Menno , Raaijmakers Jos M. , Gross Harald
Published: May 2020

Pseudomonas fluorescens
DSM 11579 is known to be a producer of the lipopeptides brabantamide and thanamycin. Its draft genome gives insight into the complete secondary metabolite production capacity of the strain and builds the basis for a comparative study with
Pseudomonas
sp. strain SH-C52, a lipopeptide-producing strain involved in natural disease-suppressive soils.
Metagenome Assembly and Metagenome-Assembled Genome Sequences from a Historical Oil Field Located in Wietze, Germany
Authors: Eze Michael O. , Lütgert Stephan A. , Neubauer Hannes , Balouri Angeliki , Kraft Alina A. , Sieven Anja , Daniel Rolf , Wemheuer Bernd
Published: May 2020

Crude oil-polluted sites are a global threat, raising the demand for remediation worldwide. Here, we investigated a crude oil metagenome from a former borehole in Wietze, Germany, and reconstructed 42 metagenome-assembled genomes, many of which contained genes involved in crude oil degradation with a high potential for bioremediation purposes.
Duplication of the oral cavity and mandible: a rare congenital craniofacial anomaly
Authors: Hamberis Alexandra O , Macias David , Clemmens Clarice , Patel Krishna G
Published: May 2020

A newborn girl was referred to the otolaryngology service after prenatal imaging showed a right mandibular mass. Physical examination revealed a 1–2 cm mass along the right mandible with the appearance of a vestigial oral cavity. Tissue resembling the vermillion and primitive tongue appeared innervated and moved in conjunction with oral movements. MRI and CT of the mandible after birth confirmed a partially ossified soft tissue mass of the right mandibular body, containing unerupted teeth. She was taken to the operating room at 6 months of age for mass excision and reconstruction. Postoperatively, she healed well and was feeding without difficulty. Craniofacial duplication, including duplication of stomatodeal structures or diprosopus, is a rare condition with a variety of phenotypes. In the case of suspected craniofacial duplication, associated syndromes should be ruled out and appropriate imaging employed to determine the extent of involvement of adjacent structures, which will ultimately guide surgical planning.
Seropositive anti-MOG antibody-associated acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM): a sequelae ofMycoplasmapneumoniaeinfection
Authors: Bonagiri Pranay , Park Daniel , Ingebritsen Joanna , Christie Laura J
Published: May 2020

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a demyelinating, autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS). It causes motor and sensory deficits, altered mental status and other neurological symptoms. Though rarely fatal, it has been associated with residual motor and neurocognitive deficits. Our case consisted of a 4-year-old girl who presented with fatigue and unsteady gait after a respiratory illness. During her hospital course, she became progressively weaker and experienced seizures. Imaging showed sections of demyelination in the CNS, and appropriate treatment was started. Additional labs resulted in positiveMycoplasma pneumoniaeserum serology. Antimyelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (anti-MOG) antibodies were also found, which is a risk factor for relapsing, multiphasic ADEM. To our knowledge, this is the first case of anti-MOG antibody-associated ADEM due toM. pneumoniaeinfection. Our patient has made a complete recovery. The parents only report slightly increased fatigue and irritability.
KGF-2 and FGF-21 poloxamer 407 hydrogel coordinates inflammation and proliferation homeostasis to enhance wound repair of scalded skin in diabetic rats
Authors: Yang Xuanxin , Yang Rongshuai , Chen Min , Zhou Qingde , Zheng Yingying , Lu Chao , Bi Jianing , Sun Wenzhe , Huang Tongzhou , Li Lijia , Gong Jianxiang , Li Xiaokun , Hui Qi , Wang Xiaojie
Published: May 2020

Objective

The present study focused on the development of a poloxamer 407 thermosensitive hydrogel loaded with keratinocyte growth factor-2 (KGF-2) and fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF-21) as a therapeutic biomaterial in a scald-wound model of type-2 diabetes in Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rats.

Research design and methods

In this study, a poloxamer 407 thermosensitive hydrogel loaded with KGF-2 and/or FGF-21 was prepared and its physical and biological properties were characterized. The repairing effects of this hydrogel were investigated in a scald-wound model of type-2 diabetes in GK rats. The wound healing rate, epithelialization, and formation of granulation tissue were examined, and biomarkers reflecting regulation of proliferation and inflammation were quantified by immunostaining and Western blotting. T tests and analyses of variance were used for statistical analysis via Graphpad Prism V.6.0.

Results

A 17.0% (w/w) poloxamer 407 combined with 1.0% (w/w) glycerol exhibited controlled release characteristics and a three-dimensional structure. A KGF-2/FGF-21 poloxamer hydrogel promoted cellular migration without apoptosis. This KGF-2/FGF-21 poloxamer hydrogel also accelerated wound healing of scalded skin in GK rats better than that of a KGF-2 or FGF-21 hydrogel alone due to accelerated epithelialization, formation of granulation tissue, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis via inhibition of inflammatory responses and increased expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen III, pan-keratin, transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and CD31.

Conclusions

A KGF-2/FGF-21 poloxamer hydrogel accelerated wound healing of scalded skin in GK rats, which was attributed to a synergistic effect of KGF-2-mediated cellular proliferation and FGF-21-mediated inhibition of inflammatory responses. Taken together, our findings provide a novel and potentially important insight into improving wound healing in patients with diabetic ulcers.
Vaginal probiotic adherence and acceptability in Rwandan women with high sexual risk participating in a pilot randomised controlled trial: a mixed-methods approach
Authors: Verwijs Marijn C , Agaba Stephen , Umulisa Marie Michele , Uwineza Mireille , Nivoliez Adrien , Lievens Elke , van de Wijgert Janneke H H M
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To evaluate adherence and acceptability of intermittent vaginal probiotic or antibiotic use to prevent bacterial vaginosis (BV) recurrence.

Design

Repeated adherence and acceptability assessments using mixed methods within a pilot randomised controlled trial.

Setting

Research clinic in Kigali, Rwanda.

Participants

Rwandan women with high sexual risk.

Interventions

Women diagnosed with BV and/or trichomoniasis were randomised to four groups (n=17 each) after completing metronidazole treatment: behavioural counselling only, or behavioural counselling plus 2-month intermittent use of oral metronidazole, Ecologic Femi+ (EF+) vaginal capsule or Gynophilus LP (GynLP) vaginal tablet.

Outcome measures

Adherence and acceptability were assessed by structured face-to-face interviews, semi-structured focus group discussions and in-depth interviews, daily diaries and counting of used/unused study products in randomised women (n=68). Vaginal infection knowledge was assessed by structured face-to-face interviews in randomised women and women attending recruitment sessions (n=131).

Results

Most women (93%) were sex workers, 99.2% were unfamiliar with BV and none had ever used probiotics. All probiotic users (n=32) reported that insertion became easier over time. Triangulated adherence data showed that 17/17 EF+ users and 13/16 GynLP users used ≥80% of required doses (Fisher’s exact p=0.103). Younger age (p=0.076), asking many questions at enrolment (p=0.116), having menses (p=0.104) and reporting urogenital symptoms (p=0.103) were non-significantly associated with lower perfect adherence. Women believed that the probiotics reduced BV recurrence, but reported that partners were sometimes unsupportive of study participation. Self-reported vaginal washing practices decreased during follow-up, but sexual risk behaviours did not. Most women (12/15) with an uncircumcised steady partner discussed penile hygiene with him, but many women found this difficult, especially with male clients.

Conclusions

High-risk women require education about vaginal infections. Vaginal probiotic acceptability and adherence were high in this cohort. Our results can be used to inform future product development and to fine-tune counselling messages in prevention programmes.

Trial registration number

NCT02459665.
Quality of informed consent documents among US. hospitals: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Spatz Erica S , Bao Haikun , Herrin Jeph , Desai Vrunda , Ramanan Sriram , Lines Lynette , Dendy Rebecca , Bernheim Susannah M , Krumholz Harlan M , Lin Zhenqiu , Suter Lisa G
Published: May 2020

Objective

To determine whether informed consent for surgical procedures performed in US hospitals meet a minimum standard of quality, we developed and tested a quality measure of informed consent documents.

Design

Retrospective observational study of informed consent documents.

Setting

25 US hospitals, diverse in size and geographical region.

Cohort

Among Medicare fee-for-service patients undergoing elective procedures in participating hospitals, we assessed the informed consent documents associated with these procedures. We aimed to review 100 qualifying procedures per hospital; the selected sample was representative of the procedure types performed at each hospital.

Primary outcome

The outcome was hospital quality of informed consent documents, assessed by two independent raters using an eight-item instrument previously developed for this measure and scored on a scale of 0–20, with 20 representing the highest quality. The outcome was reported as the mean hospital document score and the proportion of documents meeting a quality threshold of 10. Reliability of the hospital score was determined based on subsets of randomly selected documents; face validity was assessed using stakeholder feedback.

Results

Among 2480 informed consent documents from 25 hospitals, mean hospital scores ranged from 0.6 (95% CI 0.3 to 0.9) to 10.8 (95% CI 10.0 to 11.6). Most hospitals had at least one document score at least 10 out of 20 points, but only two hospitals had >50% of their documents score above a 10-point threshold. The Spearman correlation of the measures score was 0.92. Stakeholders reported that the measure was important, though some felt it did not go far enough to assess informed consent quality.

Conclusion

All hospitals performed poorly on a measure of informed consent document quality, though there was some variation across hospitals. Measuring the quality of hospital’s informed consent documents can serve as a first step in driving attention to gaps in quality.
Initial experience with the Scepter Mini dual-lumen balloon for transophthalmic artery embolization of anterior cranial fossa dural arteriovenous fistulae
Authors: Pulli Benjamin , Sussman Eric S , Mayercik Vera , Steinberg Gary K , Do Huy M , Heit Jeremy J
Published: May 2020

Background

Precise delivery of liquid embolic agents (LEAs) remains a challenge in the endovascular treatment of dural arteriovenous fistulae (dAVFs) and cerebral arteriovenous malformations (cAVMs). Despite significant advances in the past decade, LEA reflux and catheter navigability remain shortcomings of current endovascular technology, particularly in small and tortuous arteries. The Scepter Mini dual-lumen balloon microcatheter aims to address these issues by decreasing the distal catheter profile (1.6 French) while allowing for a small (2.2 mm diameter) balloon at its tip.

Methods

We report our initial experience with the Scepter Mini in two patients with anterior cranial fossa dAVFs that were treated with transophthalmic artery embolization.

Results

In both patients, the Scepter Mini catheter was able to be safely advanced into the distal ophthalmic artery close to the fistula site, and several centimeters past the origins of the central retinal and posterior ciliary arteries. A single Onyx injection without any reflux resulted in angiographic cure of the dAVF in both cases, and neither patient suffered any vision loss.

Conclusions

These initial experiences suggest that the Scepter Mini represents a significant advance in the endovascular treatment of dAVFs and cAVMs and will allow for safer and more efficacious delivery of LEAs into smaller and more distal arteries while diminishing the risk of LEA reflux.