bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kernel-Based Tests for Joint Independence
Authors: Pfister Niklas , Bühlmann Peter , Schölkopf Bernhard , Peters Jonas
Published: May 2017

We investigate the problem of testing whether d possibly multivariate random variables, which may or may not be continuous, are jointly (or mutually) independent. Our method builds on ideas of the two-variable Hilbert–Schmidt independence criterion but allows for an arbitrary number of variables. We embed the joint distribution and the product of the marginals in a reproducing kernel Hilbert space and define the d-variable Hilbert–Schmidt independence criterion dHSIC as the squared distance between the embeddings. In the population case, the value of dHSIC is 0 if and only if the d variables are jointly independent, as long as the kernel is characteristic. On the basis of an empirical estimate of dHSIC, we investigate three non-parametric hypothesis tests: a permutation test, a bootstrap analogue and a procedure based on a gamma approximation. We apply non-parametric independence testing to a problem in causal discovery and illustrate the new methods on simulated and real data sets.
Why did adolescents have sleep problems after earthquakes? Understanding the role of traumatic exposure, fear, and PTSD
Authors: Zhou Xiao , Wu Xinchun , Chen Qiuyan , Zhen Rui
Published: May 2017

To examine the relationships between trauma exposure, fear, post‐traumatic stress disorder, and sleep problems in adolescents, 746 adolescent survivors of the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake in China were assessed at 1 year (T1) and 1.5 years (T2) after the earthquake using a trauma exposure questionnaire, a fear questionnaire, a child posttraumatic stress disorder symptom scale, and a subscale on child sleep problems. The results showed that T1 trauma exposure were not directly associated with sleep problems at T1 and T2, but played a positive role in sleep problems at both T1 and T2 indirectly through T1 posttraumatic stress disorder and T1 fear. T1 trauma exposure was also positively and indirectly associated with T2 sleep problems through T1 posttraumatic stress disorder via T1 sleep problems, or through T1 fear via the path from T1 posttraumatic stress disorder to T1 sleep problems. These findings indicated that fear and posttraumatic stress disorder 1 year after the earthquake played a mediating role in the relationship between trauma exposure at 1 year after the earthquake, and sleep problems at both 1 year and 1.5 years after the earthquake, respectively. In particular, posttraumatic stress disorder also had a multiple mediating effect in the path from trauma exposure to sleep problems via fear. Furthermore, the findings indicated that sleep problems were relatively stable between 1 and 1.5 years after an earthquake.
Presentation, diagnosis, and management of popliteal artery entrapment syndrome: 11 years of experience with 61 legs
Authors: Corneloup L. , Labanère C. , Chevalier L. , Jaussaud J. , Mignot A. , Gencel L. , Corneloup O. , Midy D.
Published: May 2017

Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) is still underdiagnosed yet it may significantly interfere with lifestyle, especially among young sportspeople, with symptoms like intermittent claudication. Although case reports and small case series are sometimes published, studies with larger populations are quite rare. This study summarizes our experience with PAES on 61 limbs (35 patients) over a period of 11 years, describing the demographics, the disease, and the diagnostic and therapeutic methods used with PAES patients. In a population of 327 consecutive explored symptomatic sportspersons, PAES was confirmed in 35 patients on 61 pathologic limbs. The median time with the symptoms before diagnosis was 34 months (range, 3‐180 months). The mean age of patients was 30.5 years (range, 17‐52 years) with 83% of males. The proportion of patients diagnosed with bilateral PAES was 74%. The main sports practiced were running (15 patients, 43%), soccer (nine patients, 26%), rugby (two patients), and athletics (two patients). Among 21 patients, intra‐compartmental pressure measurements (ICP) found 18 (86%) to have an associated chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS). Among the patients followed up after PAES surgery, 80% were able to resume sport at a level comparable to that before the onset of pain. PAES could be sought earlier in young sportspeople who experience unexplained leg pain during exercise to diagnose the disease and avoid complications in a timely manner. Compartmental pressures should systematically be measured in the search for an associated CECS.
Verbalizing a commitment reduces cheating in young children
Authors: Evans Angela D. , O'Connor Alison M. , Lee Kang
Published: May 2017

Children are frequently given rules and permissions that contrast their self‐interest, resulting in cheating behavior. The present study examined whether a verbalized commitment without the word ‘promise’ could reduce cheating rates in young children and whether this technique would be significantly more effective than a simple affirmation to a request not to cheat. Ninety‐nine 3‐to‐5‐year‐olds were randomly assigned to one of three obligation conditions: control, simple ‘okay’, or a verbalized commitment condition. All children played a guessing game in which the experimenter left the room on the final trial and children were instructed not to peek at the toy in the experimenter's absence. Children were asked to agree to the request not to peek (simple ‘okay’ condition), to verbally state that they would not peek (verbalized commitment condition), or were just instructed not to peek (control condition). The verbalized commitment condition significantly reduced cheating rates compared to the other conditions, regardless of age. Furthermore, among those who cheated, children in the verbalized commitment condition took significantly longer to peek compared to the other conditions. Results suggest that a verbal commitment without the word ‘promise’ can be an effective method to reduce young children's cheating behavior.
Culture First: Boosting Program Strength Through Cultural Instruction
Authors: Windham Scott
Published: May 2017

In recent years, cultural instruction has been touted as a way to help foreign language programs boost student learning outcomes, enrollments, and many other measures of program strength. In order to investigate the relationship between cultural instruction and program strength in a university‐level German program, students in first‐ and second‐year German were surveyed over a period of four years on their perceptions of German study. The survey data suggest a moderate to strong correlation between cultural instruction and multiple measures of program strength, including student engagement, enrollment persistence, and the perceived relevance of German study.
Ramsey's Pragmatic Approach to Truth and Belief
Authors: Gruber Monika
Published: May 2017

In spite of his tragically short life, Ramsey made extensive contributions in the fields of mathematics, logic, economics and philosophy. In this article we focus on Ramsey's investigations into the notions of belief and judgement, their truth conditions and probability theory. We show that the central role given by Ramsey to belief and action together with his pragmatism allows for a new interpretation of the theories of truth and probability, paving the way for a modern decision theory.
The importance of assessing out‐of‐pocket payments when the financing of antiretroviral therapy is transitioned to domestic funding: findings from Vietnam
Authors: Johns Benjamin , Chau Le Bao , Hanh Kieu Huu , Huong Nguyen Thuy , Do Hoa Mai , Duong Anh Thuy , Nguyen Long Hoang
Published: May 2017

Objective

To assess out‐of‐pocket payments and catastrophic health expenditures among antiretroviral therapy (ART) patients in Vietnam, and to model catastrophic payments under different copayment scenarios when the primary financing of ART changes to social health insurance.

Methods

Cross‐sectional facility‐based survey of 843 patients at 42 health facilities representative of 87% of ART patients in 2015.

Results

Because of donor and government funding, no payments were made for antiretroviral drugs. Other health expenditures were about $66 per person per year (95% CI: $30–$102), of which $15 ($7–$22) were directly for HIV‐related health services, largely laboratory tests. These payments resulted in a 4.9% (95% CI: 3.1–6.8%) catastrophic payment rate and 2.5% (95% CI: 0.9–4.1%) catastrophic payment rate for HIV‐related health services. About 32% of respondents reported, they were eligible for SHI without copayments. If patients had to pay 20% of costs of ART under social health insurance, the catastrophic payment rate would increase to 8% (95% CI: 5.5–10.0%), and if patients without health insurance had to pay the full costs of ART, the catastrophic payment rate among all patients would be 24% (95% CI: 21.1–27.4%).

Conclusions

Health and catastrophic expenditures were substantially lower than in previous studies, although different methods may explain some of the discrepancy. The 20% copayments required by social health insurance would present a financial burden to an additional 0.6% to 5.1% of ART patients. Ensuring access to health insurance for all ART patients will prevent an even higher level of financial hardship.
Quantification of body iron and iron absorption in the REDS‐IIDonor Iron Status Evaluation (RISE) study
Authors: Kiss Joseph E. , Birch Rebecca J. , Steele Whitney R. , Wright David J. , Cable Ritchard G.
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND

Repeated blood donation alters the iron balance of blood donors. We quantified these effects by analyzing changes in body iron as well as calculating iron absorbed per day for donors enrolled in a prospective study.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

For 1308 donors who completed a final study visit, we calculated total body iron at the enrollment and final visits and the change in total body iron over the course of the study. Taking into account iron lost from blood donations during the study and obligate losses, we also calculated the average amount of iron absorbed per day.

RESULTS

First‐time/reactivated donors at enrollment had iron stores comparable to previous general population estimates. Repeat donors had greater donation intensity and greater mean iron losses than first‐time/reactivated donors, yet they had little change in total body iron over the study period, whereas first‐time/reactivated donors had an average 35% drop. There was higher estimated iron absorption in the repeat donors (men: 4.49 mg/day [95% confidence interval [CI], 4.41‐4.58 mg/day]; women: 3.75 mg/day [95% CI, 3.67‐3.84 mg/day]) compared with estimated iron absorption in first‐time/reactivated donors (men: 2.89 mg/day [95% CI, 2.75‐3.04 mg/day]; women: 2.76 mg/day [95% CI, 2.64‐2.87 mg/day]). The threshold for negative estimated iron stores (below “0” mg/kg stores) was correlated with the development of anemia at a plasma ferritin value of 10 ng/mL.

CONCLUSIONS

These analyses provide quantitative data on changes in estimated total body iron for a broad spectrum of blood donors. In contrast to using ferritin alone, this model allows assessment of the iron content of red blood cells and the degree of both iron surplus and depletion over time.
In vitro bactericidal activity of blue light (465 nm) phototherapy on meticillin‐susceptible and meticillin‐resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius
Authors: Schnedeker Amy H. , Cole Lynette K. , Lorch Gwendolen , Diaz Sandra F. , Bonagura John , Daniels Joshua B.
Published: May 2017

Background

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is the most common cause of bacterial skin infections in dogs. Meticillin‐resistant infections have become more common and are challenging to treat. Blue light phototherapy may be an option for treating these infections.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The objective of this study was to measure the in vitro bactericidal activity of 465 nm blue light on meticillin‐susceptible Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MSSP) and meticillin‐resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP). We hypothesized that irradiation with blue light would kill MSSP and MRSP in a dose‐dependent fashion in vitro as previously reported for meticillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Methods

In six replicate experiments, each strain [MSSP, n = 1; MRSP ST‐71 (KM1381) n = 1; and MRSA (BAA‐1680) n = 1] were cultivated on semisolid media, irradiated using a 465 nm blue light phototherapeutic device at the cumulative doses of 56.25, 112.5 and 225 J/cm2 and incubated overnight at 35°C. Controls were not irradiated. Colony counts (CC) were performed manually. Descriptive statistics were performed and treatment effects assessed using the Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney rank‐sum test. Bonferroni‐corrected rank‐sum tests were performed for post hoc analysis when significant differences were identified.

Results

There was a significant decrease in CC with blue light irradiation at all doses for MRSA (P = 0.0006) but not for MSSP (P = 0.131) or MRSP (P = 0.589).

Conclusions

Blue light phototherapy significantly reduced CC of MRSA, but not of MSSP or MRSP. The mechanism for the relative photosensitivity of the MRSA isolate is unknown, but is hypothesized to be due to an increased concentration of porphyrin in S. aureus relative to S. pseudintermedius, which would modulate blue light absorption.
Selectivity of foramsulfuron + thiencarbazone‐methyl and classic herbicides in sensitive and non‐sensitive sugar beet genotypes
Authors: Wendt M J , Kenter C , Stibbe C , Ladewig E , Märländer B
Published: May 2017

A new herbicide for sugar beet cultivation using the ALS‐inhibiting active ingredients foramsulfuron and thiencarbazone‐methyl is under approval in the EU member states. Sugar beet genotypes that are non‐sensitive to this herbicide are currently under development. Selectivity of the ALS‐inhibiting herbicide and yield response of the non‐sensitive genotypes might be relevant to meet the requirements for variety registration. To evaluate these issues, six field trials were conducted in Germany in 2013 and 2014. Classic herbicides and the ALS‐inhibitor herbicide were applied in dosages of up to fourfold the authorised (or applied for) application rates. The ALS‐inhibitor herbicide did not cause any significant phytotoxicity and had no effect on leaf area index at a single, double or fourfold dosage. By contrast, classic herbicides had significant negative effects at the single dosage. At fourfold dosage, they caused 41% phytotoxicity and reduced leaf area index by 35%. The relative yield difference between ALS‐inhibitor and classic herbicide treatments was 8.6% and 17.4% of white sugar yield at double and fourfold dosage respectively. The ALS‐inhibitor herbicide thus showed higher selectivity than the classic herbicides. In the registration process, the resulting yield advantage could balance a possible yield penalty of non‐sensitive genotypes. The introduction of a new system for weed control could improve application flexibility and control of troublesome weeds in sugar beet.
The Importance of Promoting Digital Literacy in Higher Education
Authors: Santos Ana Isabel , Serpa Sandro
Published: May 2017

At a time when there is free access to a multitude of information, the knowledge society entails the development and mobilisation of a set of competencies of selection and application of this knowledge in a reasoned and conscious way. It is in this context that higher education should develop its activities, and it is widely recognised that digital literacy encompasses the essential and transversal abilities to any higher level training, that translate into a good preparation for a successful future professionalization. However, sometimes this does not happen; hence, this short communication seeks to reflect on this problem that is central to the training activity in higher education, analysing some implications of this situation, as well as recommendations.
Effects of photogenerated carrier scattering on the decay process of coherent longitudinal optical phonons in an undoped GaAs/n-type GaAs epitaxial structure investigated by terahertz time-domain spectroscopy
Authors: Takeuchi Hideo , Sumioka Takahiro , Nakayama Masaaki
Published: May 2017

The authors investigated the scattering effect of photogenerated carriers on the decay of the coherent longitudinal optical (LO) phonons in an undoped GaAs/n-type GaAs epitaxial structure using a terahertz time-domain spectroscopic technique. The terahertz wave from the coherent LO phonon was observed together with those emitted both by the ultrafast photocurrent and by the coherent LO-phonon-plasmon coupled (LOPC) mode. The simultaneous observation of the coherent LO phonon and coherent LOPC mode originates from the fact that the photogenerated carrier density laterally distributes around the surface of the undoped GaAs layer owing the Gaussian profile of the pump beam. The authors found that the terahertz wave from the coherent LO phonon lives up to 5.0 ps, whereas those from the coherent LOPC mode and ultrafast photocurrent disappear within 1.0 ps. The decay time of the coherent LO phonon monotonically decreases with an increase in the pump power. This finding indicates that the dephasing of the terahertz wave from the coherent LO phonon is dominated by the photogenerated carrier scattering in the time range shorter than 1.0 ps in which photogenerated carriers remain.
Measurements of inter-cochlear level and phase differences of bone-conducted sound
Authors: Mcleod Robert W. J. , Culling John F.
Published: May 2017

Bone-anchored hearing aids are a widely used method of treating conductive hearing loss, but the benefit of bilateral implantation is limited due to interaural cross-talk. The present study measured the phase and level of pure tones reaching each cochlea from a single, mastoid placed bone transducer on normal hearing participants. In principle, the technique could be used to implement a cross-talk cancellation system in those with bilateral bone conductors. The phase and level of probe tones over two insert earphones was adjusted until they canceled sound from a bone transducer (i.e., resulting in perceived silence). Testing was performed in 50-Hz steps between 0.25 and 8 kHz. Probe phase and level results were used to calculate inter-cochlear level and phase differences. The inter-cochlear phase differences of the bone-conducted sound were similar for all three participants showing a relatively linear increase between 4 and 8 kHz. The attenuation characteristics were highly variable over the frequency range as well as between participants. This variability was thought to be related to differences in skull dynamics across the ears. Repeated measurements of cancellation phase and level of the same frequency produced good consistency across sessions from the same participant.
Papers of note in
Science
356
(6339)
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: May 2017

This week’s articles identify a repulsive guidance system that controls the recruitment of T cells to germinal centers; a mechanism for controlling the transfer of nutrients from the placenta to early mouse embryos; and the subcellular location of calcium dynamics in astrocytes.
New connections: How to become more flexible and open up
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: May 2017

Cryo-EM–generated structures provide insight into how RyR2 is gated and how phosphorylation may affect the activation process.
Receptor cooperation in B cells
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: May 2017

TLR4-stimulated B cell activation is mediated by the tyrosine kinase Syk and depends on the B cell receptor.
5-Aminopyrazole-4-Carboxamide-Based Compounds Prevent the Growth of Cryptosporidium parvum
Authors: Huang Wenlin , Choi Ryan , Hulverson Matthew A. , Zhang Zhongsheng , McCloskey Molly C. , Schaefer Deborah A. , Whitman Grant R. , Barrett Lynn K. , Vidadala Rama Subba Rao , Riggs Michael W. , Maly Dustin J. , Van Voorhis Wesley C. , Ojo Kayode K. , Fan Erkang
Published: May 2017

Cryptosporidium parvum
calcium-dependent protein kinase 1 (
Cp
CDPK1) is a promising target for drug development against cryptosporidiosis. We report a series of low-nanomolar
Cp
CDPK1 5-aminopyrazole-4-carboxamide (AC) scaffold inhibitors that also potently inhibit
C. parvum
growth
in vitro
. Correlation between anti-
Cp
CDPK1 and
C. parvum
growth inhibition, as previously reported for pyrazolopyrimidines, was not apparent. Nonetheless, lead AC compounds exhibited a substantial reduction of parasite burden in the neonatal mouse cryptosporidiosis model when dosed at 25 mg/kg.
Antimicrobial Resistance Risks of Cholera Prophylaxis for United Nations Peacekeepers
Authors: Kunkel Amber , Lewnard Joseph A. , Pitzer Virginia E. , Cohen Ted
Published: May 2017

More than 5 years after a United Nations peacekeeping battalion introduced cholera to Haiti, over 150,000 peacekeepers continue to be deployed annually from countries where cholera is endemic. The United Nations has thus far declined to provide antimicrobial chemoprophylaxis to peacekeepers, a policy based largely on concerns that the risks of drug resistance generation and spread would outweigh the potential benefits of preventing future cholera importations. In this study, we sought to better understand the relative benefits and risks of cholera chemoprophylaxis for peacekeepers in terms of antibiotic resistance. Using a stochastic model to quantify the potential impact of chemoprophylaxis on importation and transmission of drug-resistant and drug-sensitive
Vibrio cholerae
, we found that chemoprophylaxis would decrease the probability of cholera importation but would increase the expected number of drug-resistant infections if an importation event were to occur. Despite this potential increase, we found that at least 10 drug-sensitive infections would likely be averted per excess drug-resistant infection under a wide range of assumptions about the underlying prevalence of drug resistance and risk of acquired resistance. Given these findings, policymakers should reconsider whether the potential resistance risks of providing antimicrobial chemoprophylaxis to peacekeepers are sufficient to outweigh the anticipated benefits.
Potentiation of Antibiotic Activity by a Novel Cationic Peptide: Potency and Spectrum of Activity of SPR741
Authors: Corbett David , Wise Andrew , Langley Tara , Skinner Kirsty , Trimby Emily , Birchall Stephen , Dorali Alain , Sandiford Stephanie , Williams Jennifer , Warn Peter , Vaara Martti , Lister Troy
Published: May 2017

Novel approaches for the treatment of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections are urgently required. One approach is to potentiate the efficacy of existing antibiotics whose spectrum of activity is limited by the permeability barrier presented by the Gram-negative outer membrane. Cationic peptides derived from polymyxin B have been used to permeabilize the outer membrane, granting antibiotics that would otherwise be excluded access to their targets. We assessed the
in vitro
efficacies of combinations of SPR741 with conventional antibiotics against
Escherichia coli
,
Klebsiella pneumoniae
, and
Acinetobacter baumannii
. Of 35 antibiotics tested, the MICs of 8 of them were reduced 32- to 8,000-fold against
E. coli
and
K. pneumoniae
in the presence of SPR741. The eight antibiotics, azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, fusidic acid, mupirocin, retapamulin, rifampin, and telithromycin, had diverse targets and mechanisms of action. Against
A. baumannii
, similar potentiation was achieved with clarithromycin, erythromycin, fusidic acid, retapamulin, and rifampin. Susceptibility testing of the most effective antibiotic-SPR741 combinations was extended to 25 additional multidrug-resistant or clinical isolates of
E. coli
and
K. pneumoniae
and 17 additional
A. baumannii
isolates in order to rank the potentiated antibiotics. SPR741 was also able to potentiate antibiotics that are substrates of the AcrAB-TolC efflux pump in
E. coli
, effectively circumventing the contribution of this pump to intrinsic antibiotic resistance. These studies support the further development of SPR741 in combination with conventional antibiotics for the treatment of Gram-negative bacterial infections.
Arr-cb Is a Rifampin Resistance Determinant Found Active or Cryptic in Clostridiumbolteae Strains
Authors: Marvaud Jean-Christophe , Lambert Thierry
Published: May 2017

Clostridium
bolteae
, which belongs to the
Clostridium clostridioforme
complex, is a member of the human gut microbiota. Recent analysis of seven genomes of
C
.
bolteae
revealed the presence of an
arr
-like gene. Among these strains, only 90A7 was found to be resistant to rifampin in the absence of alteration of RpoB. Cloning of
arr-cb
from 90A7 in
Escherichia coli
combined with directed mutagenesis demonstrated that Arr-cb was functional but that a Q127→R variant present in 90A9 and 90B3 was inactive. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR analysis indicated that
arr-cb
was silent in the four remaining strains because of defective transcription. Thus, two independent mechanisms can make the probably intrinsic
arr-cb
gene of
C
.
bolteae
cryptic.
Epidemic Emergence in the United States of Escherichia coli Sequence Type 131-
H
30 (ST131-
H
30), 2000 to 2009
Authors: Johnson James R. , Porter Stephen , Thuras Paul , Castanheira Mariana
Published: May 2017

The
H
30 subclone of
Escherichia coli
sequence type 131 (ST131-
H
30) has become the leading antimicrobial resistance
E. coli
lineage in the United States and often exhibits resistance to one or both of the two key antimicrobial classes for treating Gram-negative infections, extended-spectrum cephalosporins (ESCs) and fluoroquinolones (FQs). However, the timing of and reasons for its recent emergence are inadequately defined. Accordingly, from
E. coli
clinical isolates collected systematically across the United States by the SENTRY Antimicrobial Surveillance Program in 2000, 2003, 2006, and 2009, 234 isolates were selected randomly, stratified by year, within three resistance categories: (i) ESC-reduced susceptibility, regardless of FQ phenotype (ESC-RS); (ii) FQ resistance, ESC susceptible (FQ-R); and (iii) FQ susceptible, ESC susceptible (FQ-S). Susceptibility profiles, phylogroup, ST, ST131 subclone, and virulence genotypes were determined, and temporal trends and between-variable associations were assessed statistically. From 2000 to 2006, concurrently with the emergence of ESC-RS and FQ-R strains, the prevalence of (virulence-associated) phylogroup B2 among such strains also rose dramatically, due entirely to rapid emergence of ST131, especially
H
30. By 2009,
H
30 was the dominant
E. coli
lineage overall (22%), accounting for a median of 43% of all single-agent and multidrug resistance (68% for ciprofloxacin).
H
30's emergence increased the net virulence gene content of resistant (especially FQ-R) isolates, giving stable overall virulence gene scores despite an approximately 4-fold expansion of the historically less virulent resistant population. These findings define more precisely the timing and tempo of
H
30's emergence in the United States, identify possible reasons for it, and suggest potential consequences, including more frequent and/or aggressive antimicrobial-resistant infections.
Heterocycle Thiazole Compounds Exhibit Antifungal Activity through Increase in the Production of Reactive Oxygen Species in the Cryptococcus neoformans-Cryptococcus gattii Species Complex
Authors: Sá Nívea Pereira de , Lima Caroline Miranda de , Lino Cleudiomar Inácio , Barbeira Paulo Jorge Sanches , Baltazar Ludmila de Matos , Santos Daniel Assis , Oliveira Renata Barbosa de , Mylonakis Eleftherios , Fuchs Beth Burgwyn , Johann Susana
Published: May 2017

Human cryptococcosis can occur as a primary or opportunistic infection and develops as an acute, subacute, or chronic systemic infection involving different organs of the host. Given the limited therapeutic options and the occasional resistance to fluconazole, there is a need to develop novel drugs for the treatment of cryptococcosis. In this report, we describe promising thiazole compounds 1, 2, 3, and 4 and explore their possible modes of action against
Cryptococcus
. To this end, we show evidence of interference in the
Cryptococcus
antioxidant system. The tested compounds exhibited MICs ranging from 0.25 to 2 μg/ml against
Cryptococcus neoformans
strains H99 and KN99α. Interestingly, the knockout strains for Cu oxidase and sarcosine oxidase were resistant to thiazoles. MIC values of thiazole compounds 1, 2, and 4 against these mutants were higher than for the parental strain. After the treatment of
C. neoformans
ATCC 24067 (or
C. deneoformans
) and
C. gattii
strain L27/01 (or
C. deuterogattii
) with thiazoles, we verified an increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Also, we verified the synergistic interactions among thiazoles and menadione, which generates superoxides, with fractional inhibitory concentrations (FICs) equal to 0.1874, 0.3024, 0.25, and 0.25 for the thiazole compounds 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. In addition, thiazoles exhibited antagonistic interactions with parasulphonatephenyl porphyrinato ferrate III (FeTPPS). Thus, in this work, we showed that the action of these thiazoles is related to an interference with the antioxidant system. These findings suggest that oxidative stress may be primarily related to the accumulation of superoxide radicals.
Transcriptional Control of the Lateral-Flagellar Genes of Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens
Authors: Mongiardini Elías J. , Quelas J. Ignacio , Dardis Carolina , Althabegoiti M. Julia , Lodeiro Aníbal R.
Published: May 2017

Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens
, a soybean N
2
-fixing symbiont, possesses a dual flagellar system comprising a constitutive subpolar flagellum and inducible lateral flagella. Here, we analyzed the genomic organization and biosynthetic regulation of the lateral-flagellar genes. We found that these genes are located in a single genomic cluster, organized in two monocistronic transcriptional units and three operons, one possibly containing an internal transcription start site. Among the monocistronic units is blr6846, homologous to the class IB master regulators of flagellum synthesis in
Brucella melitensis
and
Ensifer meliloti
and required for the expression of all the lateral-flagellar genes except
lafA2
, whose locus encodes a single lateral flagellin. We therefore named blr6846
lafR
(
la
teral-
f
lagellar
r
egulator). Despite its similarity to two-component response regulators and its possession of a phosphorylatable Asp residue,
lafR
behaved as an orphan response regulator by not requiring phosphorylation at this site. Among the genes induced by
lafR
is

flbT
L

, a class III regulator. We observed different requirements for FlbT
L
in the synthesis of each flagellin subunit. Although the accumulation of
lafA1
, but not
lafA2
, transcripts required FlbT
L
, the production of both flagellin polypeptides required FlbT
L
. Moreover, the regulation cascade of this lateral-flagellar regulon appeared to be not as strictly ordered as those found in other bacterial species.

IMPORTANCE
Bacterial motility seems essential for the free-living style in the environment, and therefore these microorganisms allocate a great deal of their energetic resources to the biosynthesis and functioning of flagella. Despite energetic costs, some bacterial species possess dual flagellar systems, one of which is a primary system normally polar or subpolar, and the other is a secondary, lateral system that is produced only under special circumstances.
Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens
, an N
2
-fixing symbiont of soybean plants, possesses dual flagellar systems, including the lateral system that contributes to swimming in wet soil and competition for nodulation and is expressed under high energy availability, as well as under requirement for high torque by the flagella. The structural organization and transcriptional regulation of the 41 genes that comprise this secondary flagellar system seem adapted to adjust bacterial energy expenditures for motility to the soil's environmental dynamics.
Radiation-associated peritoneal angiosarcoma
Authors: Seo Chin Jin , Lek Sze Min , Tan Grace Hwei Ching , Teo Melissa
Published: May 2017

Angiosarcomas account for only 1–2% of all soft tissue sarcomas, with the most common site of origin being in the head and neck region. Peritoneal angiosarcoma is an extremely rare tumour and few cases have been reported previously. Presentation of peritoneal angiosarcoma can be very variable, hence making diagnosis difficult. Herein, we review the current literature and describe a rare case of a patient who presented with haemorrhagic ascites, 17 years after radiotherapy for endometrial carcinoma and was subsequently diagnosed with peritoneal angiosarcoma. Due to extensive disease, surgery was not a viable option. She was started on palliative chemotherapy, but despite treatment, her condition deteriorated further and she eventually passed away. We highlight the diagnostic challenges and considerations in these patients as well as current treatment and management options available.
Pathological fracture of the femoral neck following septic coxitis and chronic osteomyelitis: a potential complication of Lemierre’s syndrome
Authors: Vogt Dominik Maximilian , Tüshaus Ludger , Kaiser Martin , Russlies Martin
Published: May 2017

We portray the case of a 16-year-old girl who was initially admitted to the paediatric emergency department with non-specific symptoms of a severe cold and was first treated symptomatically on an ambulatory basis. Within 6 days she developed the full clinical picture of Lemierre’s syndrome with the extraordinary manifestation of involvement of her right hip. Despite an interdisciplinary coordinated treatment as well as surgical therapy, a full-blown sepsis evolved within a short time period and resulted in almost 2 months of intensive care. While the primary focus could be successfully controlled, a progressive avascular necrosis of the right proximal femur developed on the basis of a chronic osteomyelitis. This finally led to a pathological fracture of the femoral neck. After excluding the possibility of an enduring bacterial infection, the fracture was treated with a total hip replacement.
Incidental discovery of a large complicated arteriovenous haemangioma
Authors: Goizueta Alberto Anthony , Libbey Peter , Moulton Anthony , El-Bizri Rabih
Published: May 2017

Arteriovenous haemangiomas within the chest are rare and uncommonly documented. After a 60-year-old woman with a history of smoking underwent a routine chest X-ray revealing a right apical mass, further investigations led to the discovery of a large extrapulmonary arteriovenous haemangioma in the superior mediastinum. Additionally, this case became complicated when the hemangioma was found to not only be compressing adjacent major arteries and veins, but also invading into the spinal canal and displacing the spinal cord. With multidisciplinary planning, the arteriovenous haemangioma was embolised and successfully resected. Thus, we present a case of an arteriovenous haemangioma in the superior mediastinum and discuss the importance of the case.
Non-surgical treatment of a relapsed cystic hygroma in an adult
Authors: García Carretero Rafael , Rodriguez-Maya Belen , Vazquez-Gomez Oscar
Published: May 2017

Lymphatic malformations, also known as lymphangiomas or cystic hygromas, are benign masses that typically affect newborns and infants and involve the head and neck regions. They are, however, rare in adults and even rarer in the axillary region. Although surgery is considered to be the treatment of choice, we present a rare case of a recurrent cystic hygroma 32 years after the first surgical operation. Due to the cosmetic concerns and the risks of a surgical approach, non-surgical therapy with percutaneous sclerosants was performed, with a good outcome after a 2-year follow-up period.
Backpack palsy with Horner’s syndrome
Authors: Sharp Olivia , Wong Kai Yuen , Stephens Paul
Published: May 2017

Traumatic injuries to the brachial plexus are typically high impact and can be debilitating, life-changing injuries. Backpack palsy is a rare but well-established cause of brachial plexus injury, arising as a result of heavy backpack use. We present an unusual case of backpack palsy with Horner’s syndrome.
Exploring inside a shaggy aorta using non-obstructive angioscopy
Authors: Komatsu Sei , Takahashi Satoru , Toyama Yasuyuki , Kodama Kazuhisa
Published: May 2017

A shaggy aorta is reportedly related to atheromatous embolisation, which causes serious ischaemic damage to various organs. However, its characteristics are poorly understood. Non-obstructive angioscopy (NOA) has been developed to safely detect aortic plaques and injuries. A 70-year-old woman who was found to have a shaggy aorta on CT angiography underwent NOA for precise evaluation of vulnerable aortic plaques and injuries inside the aorta. Vulnerable aortic plaques included puff-like ruptures, chandelier-like ruptures and erosions seen throughout the aorta. Aortic injuries included flaps, slits, subintimal bleeding, dissection and multilayered partitions. The patient had no embolic symptoms or an elevated eosinophil count, estimated glomerular filtration rate or C reactive protein level, compared with the baseline. Various changes in spontaneous vulnerable plaques and injuries inside the aorta that were not apparent on CT were safely revealed on NOA. Thus, NOA may reveal findings indicative of spontaneous and postoperative atheromatous embolisation.
Pregnant with a perforated levonorgestrel intrauterine system and visible threads at the cervical os.
Authors: Howard David L , Beasley Lauren M
Published: May 2017

We present a case in which a patient presented with a pregnancy of unknown location and normally rising human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels but with a levonorgestrel intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) present. The LNG-IUD had been placed 4.5 years ago. Although unintended, this pregnancy was desired. Strings were clearly visible and initial 2D ultrasound suggested intrauterine location of the LNG-IUD. The LNG-IUD could not be removed however. The patient was managed expectantly with close follow-up, serial beta-hCGs and serial ultrasounds until definitive diagnosis of the location of the pregnancy. The patient was diagnosed with an ectopic pregnancy and during laparoscopy the body of the IUD was noted in the posterior cul-de-sac. When patients present with multiple competing clinical problems it is important to look at the patient as a whole, taking into account their desires, in order to construct a cohesive management plan.
A ruptured bronchial artery aneurysm with massive haemoptysis
Authors: Ueda Ryoma , Kotani Yuki , Tsujimoto Toshihide
Published: May 2017

Massive haemoptysis is associated with high mortality. Among various diseases presenting with massive haemoptysis, a ruptured bronchial artery aneurysm (BAA) is a rare entity. We report the case of a ruptured BAA as small as 3 mm in diameter associated with massive haemoptysis in a previously healthy 77-year-old woman. She had suddenly developed massive haemoptysis and was intubated and admitted to the intensive care unit. A CT scan and repeated bronchoscopy could not reveal the cause. Because haemorrhage continued, she underwent bronchial arteriography (BAG) twice. We finally detected a BAA with a bleb that led to the diagnosis of a ruptured BAA only 3 mm in diameter. After bronchial artery embolisation, the haemoptysis ceased. Although rare, a ruptured BAA should be considered as a cause of massive haemoptysis. Because a small BAA may get overlooked, close observation is important in BAG.
Long-term left ventricular remodelling after revascularisation for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction as assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Hassell Mariella ECJ , Vlastra Wieneke , Robbers Lourens , Hirsch Alexander , Nijveldt Robin , Tijssen Jan GP , van Rossum Albert C , Zijlstra Felix , Piek Jan J , Delewi Ronak
Published: May 2017

Objective

Left ventricular remodelling following a ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) is an adaptive response to maintain the cardiac output despite myocardial tissue loss. Limited studies have evaluated long term ventricular function using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) after STEMI.

Methods

Study population consisted of 155 primary percutaneous coronary intervention treated first STEMI patients. CMR was performed at 4±2 days, 4 months and 24 months follow-up. Patients were treated with beta-blockers, ACE-inhibitors or AT-II- inhibitors, statins and dual antiplatelet according to current international guidelines.

Results

Mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) at baseline was 44%±8%. Twenty-one per cent of the study population had an increase of more than 5.0% after 4 months of follow-up and 21% of the cohort had a decrease of more than 5.0%. Patients with long-term LVEF deterioration have significantly larger end-systolic volumes than patients with improvement of LVEF (61±23 mL/m2compared with 52±21 mL/m2, p=0.02) and less wall thickening in the remote zone. Patients with LVEF improvement had significantly greater improvement in wall thickening in the infarct areas and in the non-infarct or remote zone.

Conclusion

Contrary to previous studies, we demonstrate that myocardial remodelling after STEMI is a long-term process. Long-term LVEF deterioration is characterised by an increase in end-systolic volume and less wall thickening in the remote zones. Patients with LVEF improvement exhibit an increase in left ventricular wall thickening both in the infarct as well as in the remote zones.

Trial registration

The HEBE study is registered in The Netherlands Trial Register #NTR166 (www.trialregister.nl) and the International Standard Randomised Controlled Trial, #ISRCTN95796863(https://c-d-qn9pqajji.sec.amc.nl).
Fido, Fluffy, and wildlife conservation: The environmental consequences of domesticated animals
Authors: Twardek William M. , Peiman Kathryn S. , Gallagher Austin J. , Cooke Steven J.
Published: May 2017

Humans have created a strong relationship with cats and dogs by domesticating them. Whether owned by a human or living feral, modern domestic cats and dogs interact extensively with people and the environment. The negative interactions between these domesticated animals and wildlife have been discussed in several reviews, but few reports have provided an overview of both the positive and negative impacts these domesticated animals have on wildlife conservation. Here, we describe the diverse issues associated with domestic cats and dogs and wildlife including predation, competition, pathogen transmission, hybridization, behavioural modification, harvest of wild animals for pet food, and creation of human–wildlife conflict. We then discuss their role in supporting conservation efforts (e.g., use in species identification and tracking, biological control), and shaping our social values towards animals and appreciation for nature. Finally, we suggest necessary steps to harmonize our relationship with cats and dogs and the conservation of wildlife. For owned animals, there is potential for pet owners to support conservation efforts through a ‘pet tax’ adopted by veterinary clinics and pet stores to be used for wildlife conservation. Moreover, information regarding the impacts of these animals on wildlife and potential solutions (e.g., voluntarily keeping cats and dogs inside or use of “pet curfews”, use of bells to alert wildlife to cats) should be made available to owners who are most likely to have an influence on the behaviour of their companion animal.
Non-Abelian gauge fields as components of gravity in the discretized Kaluza–Klein theory
Authors: Nguyen Ai Viet , Pham Tien Du
Published: May 2017

Discretized Kaluza–Klein theory in [Formula: see text] spacetime can be constructed based on the concepts of noncommutative geometry. In this paper, we show that it is possible to incorporate the non-Abelian gauge fields in this framework. The generalized Hilbert–Einstein action is gauge invariant only in two cases. In the first case, the gauge group must be Abelian on one sheet of spacetime and non-Abelian on the other one. In the second case, the gauge group must be the same on two sheets of spacetime. Actually, the theories of electroweak and strong interactions can fit into these two cases.
On the different formulations of the E11 equations of motion
Authors: West Peter
Published: May 2017

The nonlinear realization of the semi-direct product of [Formula: see text] with its vector representation leads to equation of motions for the field graviton, three-form, six-form, dual graviton and the level four fields which correctly describe the degree of freedom of 11-dimensional supergravity at the linearized level. The equations with one derivative generically hold as equivalence relations and are often duality relations. From these equations, by taking derivatives, one can derive equations that are equations of motion of the familiar kind. The entire hierarchy of equations is [Formula: see text] invariant and the construction does not require any steps beyond [Formula: see text]. We review these past developments with an emphasis on the features that have been overlooked in hep-th:1703.01305, whose alternative approach we also comment on.
Novel surface treatment for natural fiber composites
Authors: Zhang Wendy , Yuan Xiaowen
Published: May 2017

Poly(lactide) (PLA) — flax fibers stereocomplex composites were prepared by casting commercial poly(L-lactide) (PLA) and flax-g-poly(D-lactide) (flax-g-PDLA), where flax-g-PDLA was synthesized via ring-opening polymerization. Successful surface grafting was revealed by Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy, wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) studies. DSC results showed that stereocomplex crystallites formed between the PLA matrix and flax-g-PDLA, resulting in good fiber/PLA interfacial adhesion.
HEALING PATTERN OF INTERLOCKED INTRAMEDULLARY NAILED HUMERAL SHAFT FRACTURE
Authors: Moon Myung-Sang , Kim Dong-Hyeon , Yoon Min-Geun , Lee Sang-Yup
Published: May 2017

Design: Study on the cases of the united interlocked intramedullary (IM) nailed humeral shaft fractures. Objective: To assess the healing pattern of nailed humeral shaft fracture and to compare it with the results of the other previous authors’ nail-treated large bone fractures. Background data: Based on the relevant previous studies related with healing patterns of the interlocked IM nail-managed humeral shaft fractures, the current age-matched study on the participating callus for union was conceived. The comparative study on the healing patterns between the fractures of non-weight-bearing long bone — the humerus — and other large weight-bearing long bones have never been carried out previously. Materials and methods: Eighty-nine cases of the humeral shaft fractures, fixated with antegrade interlocked IM standard Kuentscher nail were subjected to the study. The patients’ ages ranged from the late teens to 9th decade of life. For the antegrade nailing, two entry points were chosen; conventional entry point in the early series, and rotator cuff interval in the late series. Results: External callus was very rarely formed [12 cases (13.4%)]. It was formed at post-fixation 6.5 weeks on average in cases with unreduced displaced fragment, and proximal interlocking. Radiographic union occurred at post-fixation 17.6 weeks on an average by primary osteonal callus. Conclusion: It was concluded that in most cases union was obtained primarily by the contact or gap healing irrespective of the patients’ ages, and that periosteal participation was very rare or negligible. Use of smaller diameter nail or new development of less rigid IM nail without external nail shape change is thought desirable to induce periosteal callus in early healing stage.