bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A large real‐world cohort study examining the effects of long‐term entecavir on hepatocellular carcinoma and HBsAg seroclearance
Authors: Ko Kwan‐Lung , To Wai‐Pan , Mak Lung‐Yi , Seto Wai‐Kay , Ning Qin , Fung James , Lai Ching‐Lung , Yuen Man‐Fung
Published: November 2019

Real‐world studies examining reduction in risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients receiving antivirals are limited by the small size of the studies, or by data insufficiency and heterogeneity with short follow‐up duration. We aimed to examine the real‐world long‐term outcome of patients receiving entecavir treatment on HCC incidence and HBsAg seroclearance. The incidence of HCC in 1225 entecavir‐treated patients between 2002 and 2015 was compared with the HCC incidence estimated using the REACH‐B, GAG‐HCC and CU‐HCC scores. Standardized incidence ratios (SIR) were calculated. The impact of entecavir treatment on HBsAg seroclearance was also explored. The median follow‐up of the cohort was 6.6 years, with 66 cases of HCC development. Using the REACH‐B model, the reduction of HCC risk was significant from year 6 onwards with SIR of 0.68 (95% CI 0.535‐0.866) at year 10. In subgroup patients without cirrhosis, consistent risk reduction was observed from the fifth year and the SIR reached 0.51 (95% CI 0.271‐0.704) by year 10. Benefit in cirrhotic patients was demonstrated when using the GAG‐HCC and CU‐HCC score, with the SIR at year 10 being 0.38 (95% CI 0.259‐0.544) and 0.46 (95% CI 0.314‐0.659), respectively. The cumulative rate of HBsAg seroclearance was 5.2%. HBsAg level at third year of treatment and baseline‐to‐3‐year percentage reduction was predictive of subsequent HBsAg seroclearance. In conclusion, long‐term entecavir therapy was associated with significant reduction in the risk of HCC in the real world. However, HBsAg seroclearance rate remained low. Additional therapy may be considered in patients with adverse predictive factors for subsequent HBsAg seroclearance.
Phenotype is sustained during hospital readmissions following treatment for complicated severe malnutrition among Kenyan children: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Gonzales Gerard Bryan , Ngari Moses M. , Njunge James M. , Thitiri Johnstone , Mwalekwa Laura , Mturi Neema , Mwangome Martha K. , Ogwang Caroline , Nyaguara Amek , Berkley James A.
Published: November 2019

Hospital readmission is common among children with complicated severe acute malnutrition (cSAM) but not well‐characterised. Two distinct cSAM phenotypes, marasmus and kwashiorkor, exist, but their pathophysiology and whether the same phenotype persists at relapse are unclear. We aimed to test the association between cSAM phenotype at index admission and readmission following recovery. We performed secondary data analysis from a multicentre randomised trial in Kenya with 1‐year active follow‐up. The main outcome was cSAM phenotype upon hospital readmission. Among 1,704 HIV‐negative children with cSAM discharged in the trial, 177 children contributed a total of 246 readmissions with cSAM. cSAM readmission was associated with age<12 months (p = .005), but not site, sex, season, nor cSAM phenotype. Of these, 42 children contributed 44 readmissions with cSAM that occurred after a monthly visit when SAM was confirmed absent (cSAM relapse). cSAM phenotype was sustained during cSAM relapse. The adjusted odds ratio for presenting with kwashiorkor during readmission after kwashiorkor at index admission was 39.3 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) [2.69, 1,326]; p = .01); and for presenting with marasmus during readmission after kwashiorkor at index admission was 0.02 (95% CI [0.001, 0.037]; p = .01). To validate this finding, we examined readmissions to Kilifi County Hospital, Kenya occurring at least 2 months after an admission with cSAM. Among 2,412 children with cSAM discharged alive, there were 206 readmissions with cSAM. Their phenotype at readmission was significantly influenced by their phenotype at index admission (p < .001). This is the first report describing the phenotype and rate of cSAM recurrence.
Enterococcus faecalis MalR acts as a repressor of the maltose operons and additionally mediates their catabolite repression via direct interaction with seryl‐phosphorylated‐HPr
Authors: Grand Maxime , Blancato Victor Sebastián , Espariz Martín , Deutscher Josef , Pikis Andreas , Hartke Axel , Magni Christian , Sauvageot Nicolas
Published: November 2019

Enterococci are gram‐positive pathogens and lead to cause hospital‐acquired infections worldwide. Central carbon metabolism was shown as highly induced in Enterococcus faecalis during infection context. Metabolism of α‐polysaccharides was previously described as an important factor for host colonisation and biofilm formation. A better characterisation of the adaptation of this bacterium to carbohydrate availabilities may lead to a better understanding of the link between carbohydrate metabolism and the infection process of E. faecalis. Here we show that MalR, a LacI/GalR transcriptional regulator, is the main factor in the regulation of the two divergent operons involved in maltose metabolism in this bacterium. The malR gene is transcribed from the malP promoter, but also from an internal promoter inside the gene located upstream of malR. In the absence of maltose, MalR acts as a repressor and in the presence of glucose, it exerts efficient CcpA‐independent carbon catabolite repression. The central PTS protein P‐Ser‐HPr interacts directly with MalR and enhances its DNA binding capacity, which allows E. faecalis to adapt its metabolism to environmental conditions.
The effector GpRbp‐1 of Globodera pallida targets a nuclear HECT E3 ubiquitin ligase to modulate gene expression in the host
Authors: Diaz‐Granados Amalia , Sterken Mark G. , Overmars Hein , Ariaans Roel , Holterman Martijn , Pokhare Somnath S. , Yuan Yulin , Pomp Rikus , Finkers‐Tomczak Anna , Roosien Jan , Slootweg Erik , Elashry Abdenaser , Grundler Florian M.W. , Xiao Fangming , Goverse Aska , Smant Geert
Published: November 2019

Plant‐parasitic nematodes secrete effectors that manipulate plant cell morphology and physiology to achieve host invasion and establish permanent feeding sites. Effectors from the highly expanded SPRYSEC (SPRY domain with a signal peptide for secretion) family in potato cyst nematodes have been implicated in activation and suppression of plant immunity, but the mechanisms underlying these activities remain largely unexplored. To study the host mechanisms used by SPRYSEC effectors, we identified plant targets of GpRbp‐1 from the potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida. Here, we show that GpRbp‐1 interacts in yeast and in planta with a functional potato homologue of the Homology to E6‐AP C‐Terminus (HECT)‐type ubiquitin E3 ligase UPL3, which is located in the nucleus. Potato lines lacking StUPL3 are not available, but the Arabidopsis mutant upl3‐5 displaying a reduced UPL3 expression showed a consistently small but not significant decrease in susceptibility to cyst nematodes. We observed a major impact on the root transcriptome by the lower levels of AtUPL3 in the upl3‐5 mutant, but surprisingly only in association with infections by cyst nematodes. To our knowledge, this is the first example that a HECT‐type ubiquitin E3 ligase is targeted by a pathogen effector and that a member of this class of proteins specifically regulates gene expression under biotic stress conditions. Together, our data suggest that GpRbp‐1 targets a specific component of the plant ubiquitination machinery to manipulate the stress response in host cells.
To rub or not to rub? – effective rigid contact lens cleaning
Authors: Cho Pauline , Poon Hoi Ying , Chen Chia Ching , Yuon Lien Tao
Published: November 2019

Purpose

To compare the efficacy of cleaning of rigid contact lenses using two care solutions with and without rubbing.

Methods

A masked randomised trial was conducted. The cleaning efficacy of two solutions recommended for rigid contact lenses, a one‐step hydrogen peroxide solution (HP) and a povidone iodine‐based solution (PI), were evaluated on 64 unworn orthokeratology (ortho‐k) lenses subsequent to cleaning with rubbing (R) with a surfactant cleaner or without rubbing (NR). Either mascara or hand cream was applied as a contaminant to the lenses to simulate stubborn and loosely bounded deposits, respectively. For each type of deposit, the lenses were randomly assigned to four cleaning treatments: R with HP, NR with HP, R with PI, and NR with PI (n = 8 for each group). Each lens surface was assessed on site by a masked examiner under a low‐magnification slit‐lamp and with photo‐documentation. Lenses were graded according to the deposit coverage area using a pre‐set five‐point scale [0 (<20% coverage) − 4 (>80% coverage)].

Results

For stubborn deposits (mascara), NR failed to remove deposits from 94% of lenses, whilst R removed more than 80% of deposits from 63% of the lenses. For oily deposits, 25% of NR lenses had >80% coverage, whilst only one R lens had 60–80% coverage, with 19% having 40–60% coverage, and 38% with either 20–40% or <20%. Rubbing improved lens cleanliness for both types of deposits, but only reached statistical significance for the stubborn deposit group. There were no significant differences between the solutions.

Conclusion

Not Rubbing and using either HP or PI solutions, is not effective in removing stubborn deposits from ortho‐k lenses. It is essential to rub lenses when cleaning rigid lenses to ensure optimal lens hygiene for ocular health, especially as rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses are intended to be reused for at least a year before replacement. Rubbing with a daily cleaner should be included in the instructions for use of the solutions tested for rigid lenses and practitioners should be encouraged to emphasise the importance of rubbing in lens care.
Challenging Surgical Treatment of Displaced Articular Tibial Plateau Fractures: Do Early Knee Radiographic Features Have a Predictive Value of the Mid‐Term Clinical Functional Outcomes?
Authors: Biz Carlo , Maso Giacomo , Gambato Marisa , Belluzzi Elisa , Pozzuoli Assunta , Favero Marta , Vigo Marco , Ruggieri Pietro
Published: November 2019

Objective

To evaluate mid‐term radiographic and functional outcomes of tibial plateau fracture (TPF) patients treated with the open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) technique and to find predictive factors of clinical outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective, single‐center study was performed enrolling a consecutive series of patients with diagnosis of TPF. All subjects were treated by ORIF between January 2010 and December 2015 at our level‐1 healthcare trauma center. The inclusion criteria were: age between 18 and 75 years; ORIF technique used for articular TPF, type 41‐B and 41‐C, isolated or with associated injuries. The patients were divided in two groups, according to fracture patterns and compared. Their characteristics, radiographic and clinical outcomes were recorded. Radiographs 12 months after surgery were evaluated for reduction and alignment, and radiographs at 24 months to describe post‐traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Functional outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), the Short Form 36 (SF‐36), the knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score (KOOS), and the American Knee Society score (AKSS) questionnaires. Return to work and sport activities were also investigated. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed, and the statistical significance was defined as two‐tailed P < 0.05.

Results

Forty‐five patients were included, 29 males and 16 females; the mean age was 54.5 years. The mean follow‐up was 57.18 months (range, 26–94). There were AO 41‐B fractures (partial articular fractures) in more than half of the patients (66.67%), while the remaining 15 had AO 41‐C fractures (complete articular fractures). The sub‐type AO 41‐B3 was the most common, reported in 62.22% of patients. The mean KOOS score was 69.0. Mean AKSS and SF‐36 PCS scores were 79.0 and 41.4, respectively. There were significant relationships between age and functional results (KOOS ADL, Sport, QoL, and SF‐36 PCS) and between BMI and KOOS Pain, ADL, Sport, and QoL. No differences were found between the two types of fractures regarding quality of reduction and alignment. AO 41‐C TPF tend to develop PTOA more frequently with respect to 41‐B fractures, while type AO 41‐C TPF had the worst clinical outcomes. We found that the presence of an articular step‐off and the malalignment of the tibial axis after surgery were predictive of daily pain felt by patients. PTOA was predictive of a worse AKSS. The overall complication rate was 13.33%: 1 superficial wound infection, 1 deep vein thrombosis, and 4 cases of transitory deficit of the common peroneal nerve.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrates that early radiographic features may be predictive for pain perceived by patients at mid‐term follow‐up.
Disseminated bullous impetigo and atopic dermatitis: Case series and literature review
Authors: Mannschreck Diana , Feig Jessica , Selph Jaqueline , Cohen Bernard
Published: November 2019

Background

Bullous impetigo (BI) is a common skin infection of early childhood, resulting from desmoglein‐1 cleavage by Staphylococcus aureus exfoliative toxins. Due to compromised barrier function and immune dysregulation, children with atopic dermatitis (AD) are at increased risk of cutaneous infections, yet no literature has been published on disseminated bullous impetigo (DBI) in children with atopic dermatitis (AD). We sought to explore the atopic phenotypes, antibiotic sensitivities, and treatment courses of children diagnosed with disseminated bullous impetigo at our institution.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective case series of 12 children diagnosed with disseminated bullous impetigo at Johns Hopkins from 12/2016 to 5/2017.

Results

Eleven children (92%) had severe AD. All children were initially misdiagnosed; the majority (67%) were misdiagnosed with AD flares, and other misdiagnoses included scabies, eczema herpeticum, ecthyma, varicella, and eczema coxsackium. All cultures were positive for methicillin‐sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA). Three children (25%) had clindamycin‐resistant strains of MSSA, and only one child was positive for both MSSA and methicillin‐resistant S aureus. All children were treated with systemic antibiotics and experienced resolution of symptoms within 24‐48 hours.

Conclusions

This case series is the first of its kind exploring children with DBI with the atopic diathesis. Our results indicate that DBI is often misdiagnosed, and increased training is likely needed for pediatricians, emergency room physicians, and dermatologists. Earlier diagnosis of bullous impetigo may prevent dissemination and spare a patient treatment with systemic antibiotics. Given the high rate of clindamycin resistance observed in this series, we recommend cephalosporins to treat uncomplicated cases of DBI.
Pediatric Kaposi's sarcoma associated with immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome
Authors: Silva Leandro , Azurara Laura , Monteiro Ana Filipe , Miroux-Catarino Alexandre , Amaro Cristina , Viana Isabel
Published: November 2019

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) represents paradoxical immune‐mediated inflammation in response to an infecting pathogen, occurring after initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART), concomitantly with immune system recovery. It has also been described in Kaposi's sarcoma (KS). We report a case of a 9‐year‐old Guinean girl, who developed Kaposi's sarcoma, following introduction of ART. KS associated with immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome is rare, especially in children, but with the increased use of ART is becoming more prevalent.
Metropolitan Geographies of Advanced Producer Services: Centrality and Concentration in Brussels
Authors: Waiengnier Maëlys , Van Hamme Gilles , Hendrikse Reijer , Bassens David
Published: November 2019

The literature on global and world cities points towards a growing concentration of advanced producer services (APS) firms in a restricted number of cities, who execute strategic command and control functions over globalised capitalism. However, relatively little attention has been paid to how APS are located within such cities. We argue that APS locations within cities are related to two partly independent processes: localisation economies and centralisation dynamics, which result in patterns of concentration and centrality superimposed on socio‐historical constructions of urban space. Utilising data from a national company register, we analyse the local insertion of APS firms in the Brussels’ metropolitan area in light of these two processes. The outcome reveals that only some of Brussels’ APS firms are concentrated and central, which we suggest to be the most strategic and internationalised APS functions.
Validation of simple prediction algorithms to consistently achieve CD3+ and postselection CD34+ targets with leukapheresis
Authors: Yoon Edward J. , Zhang Jiahao , Weinberg Rona S. , Brochstein Joel A. , Nandi Vijay , Sachais Bruce S. , Shi Patricia A.
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

Cellular therapies using engineered T cells, haploidentical transplants, and autologous gene therapy are increasing. Specified CD3+ or high CD34+ doses are typically required for subsequent manufacturing, manipulation, or CD34+ selection. Simple, practical, and reliable lymphocyte and hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) collection algorithms accounting for subsequent CD34+ selection have not been published.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In this analysis of 15 haploidentical donors undergoing tandem lymphocyte and HPC collections, we validated one‐step, practical prediction algorithms (Appendix S1, available as supporting information in the online version of this paper) that use conservative facility‐specific collection efficiencies, CD34+ selection efficiency, and donor‐specific peripheral counts to reliably achieve the target CD3+ and CD34+ product doses. These algorithms expand on our previously published work regarding predictive HPC collection algorithms.

RESULTS

Ninety‐three percent of lymphocyte and 93% of CD34+ collections achieved the final target CD3+ and CD34+ product dose when our algorithm‐calculated process volumes were used. Linear regression analysis of our algorithms for CD3+, preselection CD34+, and postselection CD34+ showed statistically significant models with R2 of 0.80 (root mean square error [RMSE], 31.3), 0.72 (RMSE, 385.7), and 0.56 (RMSE, 326.0), respectively, all with p values less than 0.001.

CONCLUSION

Because achievement of CD3+ or CD34+ dose targets may be critical for safety and efficacy of cell therapies, these simple, practical, and reliable prediction algorithms for lymphocyte and HPC collections should be very useful for collection facilities.
Evaluation of post‐thaw CFU‐GM: clinical utility and role in quality assessment of umbilical cord blood in patients receiving single unit transplant
Authors: Hussein Eiman , DeFor Todd , Wagner John E. , Sumstad Darin , Brunstein Claudio G. , McKenna David H.
Published: November 2019

BACKGROUND

The CFU assay is considered the only in vitro assay that assesses the biologic function of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC).

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

To investigate the impact of post‐thaw CFU‐GM counts on the quality of umbilical cord blood (UCB), we studied transplant outcomes in 269 patients receiving single UCB transplant. We also correlated the post‐thaw CFU‐GM counts of 1912 units with the pre‐freeze and post‐thaw graft characteristics, hoping to optimize selection criteria of UCB. Data analysis included: total nucleated cells, viability, CD34+, nucleated red blood cells (NRBC), hematocrit, frozen storage time, and cord blood bank (CBB).

RESULTS

We demonstrated an association between post‐thaw CFU‐GM dose and the speed of neutrophil and platelet engraftment (p < 0.01). Higher post‐thaw CFU‐GM dose showed an increased benefit for neutrophil and platelet engraftment (p < 0.01). Post‐thaw CD34+ cell dose and CFU‐GM dose were strongly correlated (r = 0.78). However, CFU‐GM dose showed additional benefit for patients receiving the lowest quartile of CD34+ dose. HLA disparity did not adversely impact either neutrophil or platelet engraftment.

Post‐thaw CFU‐GM/million nucleated cells plated showed moderate correlation with pre‐freeze and post‐thaw CD34+ and weak correlation with other parameters. Post‐thaw CFU‐GM was not influenced by storage time, but was impacted by the CBB from which the unit is obtained (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Post‐thaw CFU‐GM is an effective measure of the quality and efficacy of the UCB graft, particularly adding valuable clinical information when the CD34+ cell dose is low. Consideration of pre‐freeze CD34+ cell content and CBB as additional selection criteria is warranted.
Translingual English, Facebook, and gay identities
Authors: Dovchin Sender
Published: November 2019

This paper discusses the role of English in ‘enacting one's sexuality’ or ‘gendered identities’ in the Facebook practices of gay Mongolian men. Drawing on digital ethnographic studies, the study aims to illustrate how the role of English needs to be understood from the sophisticated complexities of ‘translingual English’ authored by Facebook users. It presents how Mongolian Facebook users are frequently involved with translingual English practices through their extensive relocalization of variable resources, including English, Mongolian, and other forms of codes, modes, styles, repertoires, and genres. The study also demonstrates how translingual English users deploy Facebook as a highly potent site and formula for the construction and performance of their ‘sexuality.’
Influence of different fertilizer types on life table parameters of citrus red mite, Panonychus citri (Acari: Tetranychidae)

Authors: Liu Zhe , Xu Changbao , Beattie George Ac , Zhang Xuying , Cen Yijing
Published: November 2019

Citrus red mite, Panonychus citri (McGregor) is an important pest of citrus. In order to assess the effect of different fertilizers applying in citrus on this mite, the biological characteristics on the young citrus trees treated with 3 kinds of fertilizer, organic, chemical and compound (mix of organic and chemical fertilizer) were monitored in a thermostatic room. The immature durations were not affected by different fertilizer treatments. However, the survival rates of the immature stages were significantly higher on compound fertilizer and organic fertilizer than on chemical fertilizer. The fecundity of female mites reared on compound fertilizer citrus was also significantly higher than chemical fertilizer. The pre-oviposition period of females reared on compound fertilizer treated citrus was significantly shorter, and the longevity of males was significantly longer than organic fertilizer. Overall, the mites reared on compound fertilizer treated citrus had the highest net reproduction rate (Ro), index of population trend (I), intrinsic rate of increase (rm), finite rates of increase () and shortest mean generation time (T) comparing with other treatments. The results of nutrient composition determination of citrus leaves treated with three fertilizer treatments showed that the leaves of compound fertilizers contained the highest N, P content and N/K. As P has no positive or direct influence on most phytophagous insects and Acaridae mites in previous studies, the compound fertilizer is beneficial to the optimum population growth of citrus red mite may be closely related to the two indexes, N content and N/K.
A new species Tycherobius Banehiensis (Acari: Camerobiidae) from Iran

Authors: Nasrollahi Siamak , Khanjani Mohammad , Mirfakhraee Shahram
Published: November 2019

A new species of the genus Tycherobius Boland, 1886 viz. T. banehiensis sp. nov. was collected from soil under oak trees in the vicinity of Baneh city, Kurdistan Province, Iran and was described and illustrated based on female. A key to the all known species of the world is provided.
Exploring Design Factors in Designing Horticultural Garments for Older Adults
Authors: Min Seoha , Koo Sumin , Wilson Jennifer
Published: November 2019

Gardening is a common leisure pursuit for many older individuals, and previous research found that gardening activities provide numerous health benefits. Many hazardous situations can occur when gardening, and experts have suggested that older gardeners wear protective gardening garments when gardening. However, there is a lack of research about the important features that must be considered for gardening garments, particularly for older individuals. Thus, this study investigated important design factors for developing gardening garments for older adults, including their design preferences for such garments. This study focused on the population who were born before the year 1960, as this age cohort has begun retiring and shows significant buying power. In-depth interviews and surveys were conducted to achieve the research purpose. The findings from this study will offer insights for designers who seek to better understand and market to this age cohort by designing relevant garments for their gardening activities.
Beneficial Influence of Mindfulness Training Promoted by Text Messages on Self-Reported Aerobic Physical Activity in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Robin Nicolas , Toussaint Lucette , Sinnapah Stéphane , Hue Olivier , Coudevylle Guillaume R.
Published: November 2019

Inactivity is known to have harmful effects on the physical and mental health of older adults. This study used a randomized, parallel trial design to evaluate whether daily text prompts to practice mindfulness would have a positive impact on the time that adults aged 50 years or older spend in aerobic physical activity. The participants were recruited from a certified fitness center and divided into mindfulness and control groups. For 4 weeks, they were exposed to the experimental conditions, with or without the morning text message. In the morning message condition, the mindfulness groups received a text message with the instruction to practice audio-guided mindfulness for 10 min, and the control group received a placebo message. The participants practicing mindfulness reported significantly more weekly minutes of aerobic physical activity and higher intrinsic motivation than the control participants. Mindfulness training was effective at increasing aerobic physical activity duration and might complement physical activity programs.
No Pain, No Gain? The Influence of Gender and Athletic Status on Reporting Pain in Sports
Authors: Sheffield Laurel W. , Stutts Lauren A.
Published: November 2019

Collegiate athletes are frequently exposed to pain/injury, which has the potential to negatively impact their physical and psychological health. This quasi-experimental study investigated the influence of gender and athletic status on deciding whether pain should be reported to the head coach in a vignette. Participants included 236 undergraduates who read four vignettes describing athletes (two men, two women) who were experiencing pain while playing a sport and made recommendations about whether the athlete should report the pain. Regardless of the gender of the athlete in the vignette, women and non-Division I athletes were more confident that the pain should be reported to the coach than men and athletes. Division I athletes’ recommendations for others to report pain did not align with what they reported practicing themselves. These results suggest that athletes and coaches should receive education about the factors that may lead an athlete to choose not to report pain.
Self-Efficacy, Not Peer or Parent Support, Is Associated With More Physical Activity and Less Sedentary Time Among 8- to 12-Year-Old Youth With Elevated Body Mass Index
Authors: Schroeder Krista , Kubik Martha Y. , Lee Jiwoo , Sirard John R. , Fulkerson Jayne A.
Published: November 2019

Background: Youth experience a decrease in physical activity (PA) and an increase in sedentary time during adolescence. Better understanding of factors associated with activity levels during preadolescence may inform interventions to minimize decline. This study compared the association of self-efficacy for PA, parent support for PA, and peer support for PA with moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) and sedentary time among 8- to 12-year-old children with body mass index ≥75th percentile. Methods: This study analyzed baseline data from a school-based healthy weight management intervention trial, conducted in metropolitan Minnesota. Self-efficacy for PA, parent support for PA, and peer support for PA were measured by child survey using reliable tools. MVPA and sedentary time were measured using accelerometer. Results: Participants included 114 children; mean age was 9.4 (0.9) years, 51% were females, 55% received public assistance, and 57% were racial/ethnic minorities. Self-efficacy for PA was positively associated with moderate to vigorous PA for girls (β = 1.83, P < .01) and inversely with sedentary time for the total sample (β = −7.00, P = .03). Parent support for PA was positively associated with sedentary time for girls (β = 9.89, P = .04) and the total sample (β = 7.83, P = .04). Conclusions: Interventions for preadolescents with elevated body mass index may improve activity levels by increasing self-efficacy for PA.
Whole of Systems Approaches to Physical Activity Policy and Practice in Australia: The ASAPa Project Overview and Initial Systems Map
Authors: Bellew William , Smith Ben J. , Nau Tracy , Lee Karen , Reece Lindsey , Bauman Adrian
Published: November 2019

Background: The literature on whole of system approaches (WSAs) has been largely theoretical in focus. The Australian Systems Approaches to Physical Activity is a national project designed to contribute a practical implementation focus to such approaches at the population level. Methods: National meetings were convened with federal and state government sector stakeholders to identify physical activity (PA) related policies and programs. Policies and programs were audited to develop an understanding of the existing PA system. A WSA conceptual map for PA was developed using feedback from system stakeholders, existing WSAs, and related work in obesity. Results: Completion of the policy audit has revealed key areas of need regarding policy governance, coordination, financing, and evaluation. An initial WSA conceptual map for Australia has been developed incorporating governance, translation, and advocacy. Stakeholder co-production of an integrated framework for PA and design plans for a community of practice knowledge hub has commenced. Conclusions: In Australia, Australian Systems Approaches to Physical Activity project partners have developed a conceptual whole of systems map that is guiding progress beyond the theoretical to application in the real world: a national PA policy audit, co-production of an integrated PA policy framework, and planning for a PA community of practice knowledge hub.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Intravenous Isavuconazole in Solid-Organ Transplant Recipients
Authors: Wu Xuemei , Venkataramanan Raman , Rivosecchi Ryan M. , Tang Chenxiao , Marini Rachel V. , Shields Ryan K. , Clancy Cornelius J. , Nguyen M. Hong
Published: November 2019

Isavuconazole (ISA) is a triazole antifungal with activity against yeasts and molds. We established a population pharmacokinetic (pop PK) model of intravenous (i.v.) ISA to identify covariates that affect pharmacokinetics, using plasma samples from solid-organ transplant (SOT) recipients receiving peritransplant prophylaxis. Samples (
n
 = 471) from 79 SOT recipients were utilized for pop PK analysis using nonlinear mixed-effect modeling NONMEM software.
A Plasmid-Encoded Putative Glycosyltransferase Is Involved in Hop Tolerance and Beer Spoilage in Lactobacillus brevis
Authors: Feyereisen Marine , Mahony Jennifer , O’Sullivan Tadhg , Boer Viktor , van Sinderen Douwe
Published: November 2019

Lactobacillus brevis
is a member of the lactic acid bacteria and is often reported as the causative agent of food or beverage spoilage, in particular, that of beer. Bacterial spoilage of beer may result in product withdrawal or recall, with concomitant economic losses for the brewing industry. A very limited number of genes involved in beer spoilage have been identified and primarily include those involved in hop resistance, such as
horA
,
hitA
, and
horC
. However, since none of these genes are universal, it is clear that there are likely (many) other molecular players involved in beer spoilage. Here, we report on the importance of a plasmid-encoded glycosyltransferase associated with beer spoilage by
L. brevis
that is involved in hop tolerance. The study highlights the complexity of the genetic requirements to facilitate beer spoilage and the role of multiple key players in this process.
Aspergillus fumigatus Cell Wall Promotes Apical Airway Epithelial Recruitment of Human Neutrophils
Authors: Feldman Michael B. , Dutko Richard A. , Wood Michael A. , Ward Rebecca A. , Leung Hui Min , Snow Ryan F. , De La Flor Denis J. , Yonker Lael M. , Reedy Jennifer L. , Tearney Guillermo J. , Mou Hongmei , Hurley Bryan P. , Vyas Jatin M.
Published: November 2019

Aspergillus fumigatusis a ubiquitous fungal pathogen capable of causing multiple pulmonary diseases, including invasive aspergillosis, chronic necrotizing aspergillosis, fungal colonization, and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. Intact mucociliary barrier function and early airway neutrophil responses are critical for clearing fungal conidia from the host airways prior to establishing disease.
Successful Integration of Face-to-Face Bootcamp Lab Courses in a Hybrid Online STEM Program
Authors: Ardissone Alexandria N. , Oli Monika W. , Rice Kelly C. , Galindo Sebastian , Urrets-Zavalia Macarena , Wysocki Allen F. , Triplett Eric W. , Drew Jennifer C.
Published: November 2019

The Microbiology and Cell Science program at the University of Florida compressed two standard 16-week lab courses into five-day versions of the course, which are referred to as bootcamp labs. The bootcamp labs have the same objectives, activities, and assessments as their traditional counterparts. Development of the bootcamp labs was part of a larger effort to increase access to the major, and more broadly STEM, by offering a 2+2 hybrid online transfer program. The results of this mixed-methods study include a direct comparison between bootcamp and traditional lab format as an approach for delivery of a face-to-face lab course. The bootcamp lab cohort has a greater diversity of students, with more women and underrepresented minorities in STEM than the traditional semester-long cohorts. Students in the bootcamp labs have comparable grade outcomes and learning gains to students in traditional lab format. Regression analysis identified GPA, but not lab format, as the most significant predictor of success for students enrolled in lab courses. Qualitative results suggest that the bootcamp format may be a better way than traditional formats to teach microbiology lab. In summary, the results demonstrate that a bootcamp version of a face-to-face microbiology course is just as effective as the traditional semester-long version. This work has broader implications as it supports the bootcamp lab approach as a model in STEM education for increasing access and for overcoming a major barrier to online STEM programs: face-to-face delivery of key lab courses.
Impact and Outcomes of the Oklahoma IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence Summer Undergraduate Research Program
Authors: Chou Ann F. , Hammon Dawn , Akins Darrin R.
Published: November 2019

Participating in research under the guidance of faculty mentors can increase undergraduate students’ skills, knowledge, and confidence in conducting scientific research and pursing a scientific career. The Oklahoma IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (OK-INBRE) in the US state of Oklahoma has established an infrastructure to develop future researchers and healthcare professionals by providing students with summer internships. However, long-term benefits have not typically been well quantified, and most prior investigations examining benefits and outcomes of undergraduate summer research experiences have been descriptive and/or observational in nature. To assess OK-INBRE summer program participants, educational and career outcomes were systematically tracked. Data for evaluation included 1) primary sources containing responses to learning surveys from OK-INBRE and national cohorts over a three-year period, and 2) secondary sources from the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education (OSRHE), that track educational outcomes of Oklahoma students over a 15-year period. Frequency statistics were compiled and bivariate analyses were conducted to examine participant academic and career outcomes. Survey responses reported higher satisfaction in various dimensions of learning among OK-INBRE students than among corresponding national cohorts, particularly on dimensions of knowledge, skills, and understanding of sciences. The OSRHE data showed that, compared with those in the control group, there was a 100% increase in OK-INBRE participants who enrolled in or had completed a professional degree (e.g., MD/DO) and a 175% increase in students attending a biomedical science graduate program. These findings demonstrate the contribution of the OK-INBRE program in promoting science education and professions.
Who Let the Dogs Out? A Plea for Official Guidelines on Service Animals in the Teaching Laboratory
Authors: Hammett Amy Jo M. , Spencer Juliet V.
Published: November 2019

Microbiology teaching labs provide the opportunity for students to develop marketable skills while observing the microbial inhabitants of our planet as they grow, ferment, and produce colorful by-products. Emphasizing safe laboratory practices is an essential part of this education, but occasionally situations that challenge safety paradigms arise. We describe here a recent incident in which a student brought a guide dog-in-training to her microbiology lab, causing a scramble to provide “reasonable” accommodations. Following time-consuming consultations with Disability Services for Students, Human Resources, Risk Management, and Legal Counsel, it was determined that the student had no disability herself and was not actually a certified guide-dog trainer. This deceptive behavior is not acceptable in general but is especially dangerous in a microbiology lab where safe lab practices are essential. Ultimately it was agreed that the microbiology lab is not a public space but rather a restricted space that requires closed toed shoes and personal protective equipment. Thus it is not possible to admit animals that are not fully trained, as this can endanger both the animal and the other students in the laboratory. The intent is not to limit opportunities for the truly disabled but rather to keep every student safe. Our objective is to bring attention to this complex issue in hopes that the American Society for Microbiology or other prominent scientific organizations will establish clear guidelines to educate students, faculty, administrators, and the general public on the challenges and dangers associated with guide dogs in a microbiology laboratory.
Explosive interaction of impact melt and seawater following the Chicxulub impact event
Authors: Osinski Gordon R. , Grieve Richard A.F. , Hill Patrick J.A. , Simpson Sarah L. , Cockell Charles , Christeson Gail L. , Ebert Matthias , Gulick Sean , Melosh H. Jay , Riller Ulrich , Tikoo Sonia M. , Wittmann Axel
Published: November 2019

The impact of asteroids and comets with planetary surfaces is one of the most catastrophic, yet ubiquitous, geological processes in the solar system. The Chicxulub impact event, which has been linked to the Cretaceous-Paleogene (K-Pg) mass extinction marking the beginning of the Cenozoic Era, is arguably the most significant singular geological event in the past 100 million years of Earth’s history. The Chicxulub impact occurred in a marine setting. How quickly the seawater re-entered the newly formed basin after the impact, and its effects of it on the cratering process, remain debated. Here, we show that the explosive interaction of seawater with impact melt led to molten fuel–coolant interaction (MFCI), analogous to what occurs during phreatomagmatic volcanic eruptions. This process fractured and dispersed the melt, which was subsequently deposited subaqueously to form a series of well-sorted deposits. These deposits bear little resemblance to the products of impacts in a continental setting and are not accounted for in current classification schemes for impactites. The similarities between these Chicxulub deposits and the Onaping Formation at the Sudbury impact structure, Canada, are striking, and suggest that MFCI and the production of volcaniclastic-like deposits is to be expected for large impacts in shallow marine settings.
Beware of the hot swollen calf following knee replacement surgery: it might not be a deep vein thrombosis
Authors: Lotz Benedict , Palmer Antony , Deo Sunny D
Published: November 2019

We report the case of a 77-year-old woman who presented with a 10-day history of increasing swelling and erythema of her right calf and popliteal areas 12 years after bilateral total knee replacements. Deep venous thrombosis (DVT), cellulitis or possible deep sepsis as a result of the knee replacement were the initial differential diagnoses. Due to clinical deterioration, exploration and radical debridement were performed and a 1.5 L collection of pus was identified through a small posteromedial proximal tibial bone defect adjacent to the tibial component, extending between gastrocnemius, soleus and into the distal calf. The procedure was extended to a first stage revision (complete implant and cement removal). Although leg swelling is common in joint infections secondary to knee swelling as a result of the inflammation, synovitis and/or knee effusion response, this case highlights the need to consider additional pathology such as deep abscess formation or DVT in these types of presentations.
Hemiencephalitis: a hyperaemic presentation of Hashimoto’s encephalopathy
Authors: Gregory Timothy A , Jones Gillian N , Loh Yince
Published: November 2019

There are many examples in the literature of Hashimoto’s encephalopathy (HE) presenting with heterogeneous manifestations to include stroke-like episodes, seizures, myoclonus and psychiatric symptoms. The pathogenesis is poorly understood but is thought to involve an autoimmune-mediated vasculitis. Here, we present a novel case showing hemispheric hyperaemia which created a diagnostic challenge and insinuated a vascular mechanism for the condition. The patient presented with left-sided stroke-like symptoms and had head CT angiography notable for asymmetric vasculature initially interpreted radiographically as decreased left middle cerebral artery (MCA) flow. An MRI brain demonstrated right-sided holohemispheric fluid-attenuatedinversion recovery (FLAIR) hyperintensity with right insula contrast enhancement. She was found to have elevated anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) antibodies with an otherwise negative encephalitis workup. The patient was diagnosed with HE and acutely progressed to have focal seizures during a prolonged intensive care unit stay. She ultimately required intravenous Ig and antiepileptic medications to gain control of her disease. This case appears to be the first described presentation of hemiencephalitis with local hyperaemia, and may represent local autoregulatory loss as a result of vasculitis. This supports the existing literature implicating inflammatory microvascular infiltration in the mechanism of the disease. HE must be considered in a broad range of unexplained neurological symptoms.
Effects of supervised exercise training during pregnancy on psychological well-being among overweight and obese women: secondary analyses of the ETIP-trial, a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Garnæs Kirsti Krohn , Helvik A S , Stafne Signe N , Mørkved Siv , Salvesen Kjell , Salvesen Øyvind , Moholdt Trine
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Women with high body mass index (BMI) have increased risk for symptoms of anxiety and depression during pregnancy and postpartum. In this prespecified secondary analysis from the exercise training in pregnancy trial, our aim was to examine effects of supervised exercise during pregnancy on psychological well-being in late pregnancy and postpartum among women with a prepregnancy BMI ≥28 kg/m2.

Design

Single-centre, parallel group, randomised controlled trial.

Setting

University Hospital, Norway.

Participants

Ninety-one women (age 31.2±4.1 years, BMI 34.5±4.2 kg/m2), 46 in the exercise group, 45 in the control group, were included in the trial.

Intervention

The exercise group was offered 3 weekly supervised exercise sessions (35 min of moderate intensity walking/running and 25 min of resistance training), until delivery.

Primary and secondary outcomes measures

Primary analyses were based on intention to treat, with secondary perprotocol analyses. To assess psychological well-being, we used the ‘Psychological General Well-Being Index’ (PGWBI) at inclusion (gestational week 12–18), late pregnancy (gestational week 34–37) and 3 months postpartum. We assessed postpartum depression using the ‘Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale’ (EPDS).

Results

Numbers completed data collection: late pregnancy 72 (exercise 38, control 36), postpartum 70 (exercise 36, control 34). In the exercise group, 50% adhered to the exercise protocol. Baseline PGWBI for all women was 76.4±12.6. Late pregnancy PGWBI; exercise 76.6 (95% CI 72.2 to 81.0), control 74.0 (95% CI 69.4 to 78.5) (p=0.42). Postpartum PGWBI; exercise 85.4 (95% CI 81.9 to 88.8), control 84.6 (95% CI 80.8 to 88.4) (with no between-group difference, p=0.77). There was no between-group difference in EPDS; exercise 2.96 (95% CI 1.7 to 4.2), control 3.48 (95% CI 2.3 to 4.7) (p=0.55).

Conclusions

We found no effect of supervised exercise during pregnancy on psychological well-being among women with high BMI. Our findings may be hampered by low adherence to the exercise protocol.

Trial registration number

NCT01243554
Lessons from a pilot for uncontrolled donation after circulatory death in the ED in the UK
Authors: Reed Matthew James , Currie Ian , Forsythe John , Young Irene , Stirling John , Logan Lesley , Clegg Gareth R , Oniscu Gabriel C
Published: November 2019

Worldwide there is a shortage of available organs for patients requiring transplants. However, some countries such as France, Italy and Spain have had greater success by allowing donations from patients with unexpected and unrecoverable circulatory arrest who arrive in the ED. Significant advances in the surgical approach to organ recovery from donation after circulatory death (DCD) led to the establishment of a pilot programme for uncontrolled DCD in the ED of the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. This paper describes the programme and discusses the lessons learnt.