bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public and Private Partnership for Sustainable Resource Use Initiative (Strategically Comprehensive Management To Back Up Formal Status of The ‘Cagar Biosfir Berbak-Sembilang’ as Another Targeting Site for The World Biosphere)
Authors: Sjarkowi Fachrurrozie
Published: August 2019

As clearly indicated in Lima Action Plan as adopted by MAB-ICC on March 19th 2016; UNESCO’s MAB will harness lessons learned by communicating and sharing information so that the WNBR (World Network of Biosphere Reserves) could develop appropriate but effectively functioning model of sustainable development for each site of World Biosphere. Appropriate management model for an ecosystem including its potential natural resources should get improved over time, “mainly in terms of governance, collaboration, and net working within the MAB and WNBR, by developing effective external partnership to ensure long term viability” (MAB-ICC, 2016). Clearly, a totally comprehensive ecosystem and multi-resource management must be prepared in order to fulfil the UNESCO’s expectation. Ecosystem management is more on-site oriented action, while multi-resource management is needed to control all socio-economic interests of the nearby people for the sake of their livelihoods. Of course the indigenous interests to those resource potentials must be fulfil selectively and directly connected with innovative roles of all other business actors as off-site economic beneficiaries. Hence, all activities (on-site and off-site CBBS-WB) have to come along with environmentally sound development strategies. There are 30 points of integrated management being offered herewith for effective execution.
9-O-acetyl sialic acid levels identify committed progenitors of plasmacytoid dendritic cells
Authors: Netravali Ilka A , Cariappa Annaiah , Yates Kathleen , Haining W Nicholas , Bertocchi Alice , Allard-Chamard Hugues , Rosenberg Ian , Pillai Shiv
Published: August 2019

The origins of plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) have long been controversial and progenitors exclusively committed to this lineage have not been described. We show here that the fate of hematopoietic progenitors is determined in part by their surface levels of 9-O-acetyl sialic acid. Pro-pDCs were identified as lineage negative 9-O-acetyl sialic acid low progenitors that lack myeloid and lymphoid potential but differentiate into pre-pDCs. The latter cells are also lineage negative, 9-O-acetyl sialic acid low cells but are exclusively committed to the pDC lineage. Levels of 9-O-acetyl sialic acid provide a distinct way to define progenitors and thus facilitate the study of hematopoietic differentiation.
Impact of Zika Virus Emergence in French Guiana: A Large General Population Seroprevalence Survey
Authors: Flamand Claude , Bailly Sarah , Fritzell Camille , Berthelot Léna , Vanhomwegen Jessica , Salje Henrik , Paireau Juliette , Matheus Séverine , Enfissi Antoine , Fernandes-Pellerin Sandrine , Djossou Félix , Linares Sébastien , Carod Jean-François , Kazanji Mirdad , Manuguerra Jean-Claude , Cauchemez Simon , Rousset Dominique
Published: August 2019

Background

Since the identification of Zika virus (ZIKV) in Brazil in May 2015, the virus has spread throughout the Americas. However, ZIKV burden in the general population in affected countries remains unknown.

Methods

We conducted a general population survey in the different communities of French Guiana through individual interviews and serologic survey during June–October 2017. All serum samples were tested for anti-ZIKV immunoglobulin G antibodies using a recombinant antigen-based SGERPAxMap microsphere immunoassay, and some of them were further evaluated through anti-ZIKV microneutralization tests.

Results

The overall seroprevalence was estimated at 23.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 20.9%–25.9%) among 2697 participants, varying from 0% to 45.6% according to municipalities. ZIKV circulated in a large majority of French Guiana but not in the most isolated forest areas. The proportion of reported symptomatic Zika infection was estimated at 25.5% (95% CI, 20.3%–31.4%) in individuals who tested positive for ZIKV.

Conclusions

This study described a large-scale representative ZIKV seroprevalence study in South America from the recent 2015–2016 Zika epidemic. Our findings reveal that the majority of the population remains susceptible to ZIKV, which could potentially allow future reintroductions of the virus.
Efficacy, late complications, and cosmetic outcomes of targeted intraoperative radiotherapy in breast-conserving surgery for early-stage breast cancer: a single-centre study in China
Authors: Mi Yin , Lv Pengwei , Wang Fang , Li Lin , Zhu Mingzhi , Cao Qinchen , Liu Junqi , Dong Meilian , Shi Yonggang , Fan Ruitai
Published: August 2019

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, late complications, and cosmetic outcomes of targeted intraoperative radiotherapy for the treatment of Chinese patients with early-stage breast cancer.

Methods

Between September 2014 and May 2017, breast cancer patients undergoing targeted intraoperative radiotherapy at our facility were retrospectively recruited for this study. Intraoperative radiotherapy was performed with a 50-kV X-ray source in an Intrabeam system (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Oberkochen, Germany). The one-time prescribed irradiation dose to the tumour bed was 20 Gy. Recurrence, death, late complications, and cosmetic outcomes were recorded. Late radiotoxicity was assessed based on the grading criteria of the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group.

Results

A total of 77 patients who were treated with targeted intraoperative radiotherapy only were recruited. The cohort had a mean age of 58 years; patients with T1, N0, and invasive ductal carcinoma accounted for 75.3, 89.6, and 84.4%, respectively; the median follow-up duration was 40 months; there were 2 patients of recurrence and 2 patients of death. There were no patients of cardiac toxicity or skin or lung radiotoxicity of grade 2 or above. The main complications were breast oedema (18.2%), seroma (15.6%), chromatosis (9.1%), induration (7.8%), pain (5.2%), skin depression (2.6%), mild dry cough (2.6%), delayed wound healing (1.3%), and wound infection (1.3%). Seventy-three patients participated in the cosmetic outcome evaluation, which yielded an excellent or good rate of 95.9%.

Conclusions

Due to its low recurrence rates, lack of high-grade late radiotoxicity, and excellent cosmetic outcomes, targeted intraoperative radiotherapy may be a suitable treatment for select early-stage breast cancer patients in China.
Refugees and Votes: The Impact of Refugee Influx and Internet on Voting Decisions
Authors: Karacuka Mehmet
Published: August 2019

The effects of refugee influx in recent years have been mostly analysed in terms of social and economic dimensions. However, the effects are especially important on the party system of the host countries that shape the political governance. In this study, we analyse the effects of massive refugee inflow from Syria to Turkey using regional data for the party votes in the 2015 parliamentary elections. The results show that the refugee crisis significantly increased the votes of the Nationalist Action Party (MHP) in the June election in the regions with higher refugee ratios. Due to the fact that public perceptions towards the refugees are shaped via media, and mostly new digital media, I also test whether Internet usage has an effect on the votes. I find a similar positive effect for the MHP when Internet and refugee variables are interacted. Furthermore, we find that the governing Justice and Development Party (AKP) did not lose many votes as voters appraised economic growth in the regions.
Histone acetyltransferase GCN5-mediated regulation of long non-coding RNA At4 contributes to phosphate starvation response in Arabidopsis
Authors: Wang Tianya , Xing Jiewen , Liu Zhenshan , Zheng Mei , Yao Yingyin , Hu Zhaorong , Peng Huiru , Xin Mingming , Zhou Daoxiu , Ni Zhongfu
Published: August 2019

The histone acetyltransferase GCN5 modulates the phosphate starvation response by acetylating the long non-coding RNA At4.
Setting research priorities for tackling climate change
Authors: Middendorf B Jan , Prasad P V Vara , Pierzynski Gary M
Published: August 2019

Addressing the complex issues related to climate change requires multiple innovative approaches to identify research priorities involving multidisciplinary research teams. Participatory approaches with a variety of perspectives were used to gain insights into critical issues such as defining and understanding sustainable intensification, climate smart agriculture, and soil fertility prioritization in sub-Saharan Africa. This analysis drew on the foundation principles of participatory research and fundamental facilitation skills, while grounded in scientific knowledge and understanding of these complex issues. This approach essentially incorporates the relevant principles of participatory learning and action, primarily designed for development projects, with a new set of players within the research and policy domain. The results of three case studies that utilized participatory techniques with a set of multidisciplinary research teams are presented. The case studies were: (i) Feed the Future Sustainable Intensification Innovation Lab (SIIL) proposal development grounded in country-led and national priorities in Bangladesh, Tanzania, and Cambodia; (ii) climate smart agriculture and sustainable intensification assessment and priority setting in Rwanda; and (iii) soil fertility prioritization in sub-Saharan Africa. We discuss how the future directions of such initiatives were shaped for improved outcomes.
Climate and development modulate the metabolome and antioxidative system of date palm leaves
Authors: Du Baoguo , Kruse Joerg , Winkler Jana Barbro , Alfarray Saleh , Schnitzler Joerg-Peter , Ache Peter , Hedrich Rainer , Rennenberg Heinz
Published: August 2019

High temperatures of summer climate markedly impact the foliar metabolome and the antioxidative system of date palms, with young leaves being more responsive than mature leaves.
Spiral instabilities: mechanism for recurrence
Authors: Sellwood J A , Carlberg Ray G
Published: August 2019

We argue that self-excited instabilities are the cause of spiral patterns in simulations of unperturbed stellar discs. In previous papers, we have found that spiral patterns were caused by a few concurrent waves, which we claimed were modes. The superposition of a few steadily rotating waves inevitably causes the appearance of the disc to change continuously, and creates the kind of shearing spiral patterns that have been widely reported. Although we have found that individual modes last for relatively few rotations, spiral activity persists because fresh instabilities appear, which we suspected were excited by the changes to the disc caused by previous disturbances. Here we confirm our suspicion by demonstrating that scattering at either of the Lindblad resonances seeds a new groove-type instability. With this logical gap closed, our understanding of the behaviour in the simulations is almost complete. We believe that our robust mechanism is a major cause of spiral patterns in the old stellar discs of galaxies, including the Milky Way where we have previously reported evidence for resonance scattering in the recently released Gaia data.
Silica dust and sarcoidosis in Swedish construction workers
Authors: Jonsson E , Järvholm B , Andersson M
Published: August 2019

Background

The aetiology of sarcoidosis is not well established. In previous studies, smoking has been negatively associated with sarcoidosis and there are some indications of an association between exposure to silica dust and sarcoidosis.

Aims

To study the risk of sarcoidosis in relation to silica dust exposure.

Methods

A longitudinal cohort of construction workers linked with a registry of Swedish inpatient diagnoses. Workers were designated as exposed or unexposed to silica based on job titles in a job–exposure matrix. The relative risk (RR) was analysed with Poisson regression adjusting for age and smoking.

Results

We identified 371 cases of sarcoidosis among 297 917 male workers. There was an increased risk of sarcoidosis in the medium- to high-exposure group [RR 1.83 (95% confidence interval {CI} 1.14–2.95)]. A stratified analysis according to smoking showed that ever-smoking workers had an increased risk of sarcoidosis if highly exposed to silica dust [RR 2.44 (95% CI 1.37–4.33)] compared to non-exposed ever-smokers. The risk of non-smokers highly exposed to silica was not significantly increased [RR 1.07 (95% CI 0.72–1.58)] compared to non-exposed non-smokers.

Conclusion

The study indicates an increased risk of developing sarcoidosis in ever-smoking men exposed to silica.
Combined effects of elevated epilimnetic temperature and metalimnetic hypoxia on the predation rate of planktivorous fish
Authors: Maszczyk Piotr , Babkiewicz Ewa , Ciszewski Krzysztof , Dabrowski Kamil , Dynak Przemysław , Krajewski Karol , Urban Paulina , Żebrowski Marcin , Wilczynski Wojciech
Published: August 2019

Increased temperature in the epilimnion and hypoxia in the metalimnion of a lake would result in an increase of positive-size-selective fish predation on zooplankton and in turn in a decrease of mean body size in zooplankton populations and communities. We tested this hypothesis in four types of experiments with juvenile rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus) foraging on Daphnia longispina in an indoor twin column tank system. In each experiment of the first three types, one column contained one of three types of experimental treatments differing from the control treatment (in the other column) by the following: (i) elevated temperature in the epilimnion, (ii) hypoxia in the metalimnion and (iii) simultaneous elevated temperature in the epilimnion and hypoxia in the metalimnion. In the fourth type of experiment, the gradients of temperature and oxygen concentration in both columns were the same, but prior to the experiments, Daphnia and fish in the control treatment were acclimated to normoxia and, in the experimental treatment, to hypoxia. The results confirmed our hypothesis, since the predation rate of fish was greater in each of the first three experimental treatments than in the control. We did not detect an effect of the acclimation to hypoxia on the predation rate of the fish.
Developing an evaluation framework for university-driven technology-based, innovation for inclusive development (UTI4ID) projects
Authors: Botha L , Grobbelaar S S , Bam W G
Published: August 2019

From the evaluation literature related to research and innovation policy, calls have long been made for improved evaluation processes especially where projects and programmes may be evaluated from a systems perspective. Drawing on the literature of innovation systems and innovation for inclusive development (I4ID) this research proposes a state-of-the-art analysis framework, which can be used to evaluate University-driven Technology-based Innovation for Inclusive Development (UTI4ID) projects. In particular, this framework draws on 16 exploratory case studies of UTI4ID that leads to the development of typologies that can be used in future UTI4ID evaluations to better guide such efforts. We thus not only show that advances in the I4ID literature provides an ideal starting point for complexity cognisant evaluations, but also contribute an end-to-end framework to support such evaluations and populate a detailed guide for future UTI4ID projects.
Global Political Uncertainty and Asset Prices
Authors: Brogaard Jonathan , Dai Lili , Ngo Phong T H , Zhang Bohui
Published: August 2019

We show that global political uncertainty, measured by the U.S. election cycle, on average, leads to a fall in equity returns in fifty non-U.S. countries. At the same time, market volatilities rise, local currencies depreciate, and sovereign bond returns increase. The effect of global political uncertainty on equity prices increases with the level of uncertainty in U.S. election outcomes and a country’s equity market exposure to foreign investors, but does not vary with the country’s international trade exposure. These findings suggest that global political uncertainty increases investors’ aggregate risk aversion, leading to a flight to safety.(JEL F30, F36, G12, G15, G18)

Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
Differential expression of TLR2 and TLR4 in α4β7-positive leukocytes of patients with axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Romero-López José Pablo , Gómez-Martínez David , Domínguez-López María Lilia , Jiménez-Zamudio Luis , Casasola-Vargas Julio César , Burgos-Vargas Rubén , García-Latorre Ethel
Published: August 2019

Objectives

Expression of α4β7 integrin can identify gut-homing immune cells. This study aimed to determine the expression of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and TLR4 in α4β7-positive leukocytes of patients with axial SpA (axSpA).

Methods

We analysed the frequencies of α4β7-positive T cells, Tγδ cells and monocytes in 14 patients with axSpA and 14 healthy controls, together with the expression of TLR2 and TLR4 by flow cytometry. Also, the concentration of faecal calprotectin was measured in all patients and controls.

Results

We found significantly higher percentages of α4β7-positive T (P = 0.026) and Tγδ cells (P = 0.0118) in the patients with axSpA than in controls; these cells showed differential expression of TLR2 and TLR4 when compared with α4β7-negative cells. Such differences were not correlated with disease activity or faecal calprotectin concentration.

Conclusion

There is an increase in circulating α4β7-positive T and Tγδ cells in patients with axSpA. These cells differentially express TLR2 and TLR4.
Knockin’ on heaven’s door? Reframing the debate on temporary employment and wages: evidence from Europe
Authors: Bellani Daniela , Bosio Giulio
Published: August 2019

This article reframes the debate on the consequences of flexibilization in European labour markets focusing on the unexplored impact of temporary employment on occupational wages for permanent workers. Exploiting the variation in the temps’ density within occupation and age groups across European countries between 2003 and 2010, we find that temporary contracts negatively affect occupational average wages for insiders’ workers. These results are still robust using a dynamic system based on generalized method of moments (GMM-SYS) to account for potential endogeneity issues. We also explore the existence of heterogeneity across different occupational clusters and institutional settings. Our estimates indicate that the knock-on effect is large in countries with low employment protection legislation and it is driven by occupations characterized by untechnical work logics.
Chamomile Floricolous Downy Mildew Caused by Peronospora radii
Authors: Duduk Bojan , Duduk Nataša , Vico Ivana , Stepanović Jelena , Marković Tatjana , Rekanović Emil , Kube Michael , Radanović Dragoja
Published: August 2019

Floricolous downy mildews (Peronospora, oomycetes) are a small, monophyletic group of mostly inconspicuous plant pathogens that induce symptoms exclusively on flowers. Characterization of this group of pathogens, and information about their biology, is particularly sparse. The recurrent presence of a disease causing flower malformation which, in turn, leads to high production losses of the medicinal herb Matricaria chamomilla in Serbia has enabled continuous experiments focusing on the pathogen and its biology. Peronospora radii was identified as the causal agent of the disease, and morphologically and molecularly characterized. Diseased chamomile flowers showed severe malformations of the disc and ray florets, including phyllody and secondary inflorescence formation, followed by the onset of downy mildew. Phylogeny, based on internal transcribed spacer and cox2, indicates clustering of the Serbian P. radii with other P. radii from chamomile although, in cox2 analyses, they formed a separate subcluster. Evidence pointing to systemic infection was provided through histological and molecular analyses, with related experiments validating the impact of soilborne and blossom infections. This study provides new findings in the biology of P. radii on chamomile, thus enabling the reconstruction of this floricolous Peronospora species’ life cycle.
The in Planta Effective Concentration of Oxytetracycline Against ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ for Suppression of Citrus Huanglongbing
Authors: Li Jinyun , Pang Zhiqian , Duan Shuo , Lee Donghwan , Kolbasov Vladimir G. , Wang Nian
Published: August 2019

Huanglongbing (HLB) or greening currently is the most devastating citrus disease worldwide. The fastidious phloem-colonizing bacterium ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (CLas) is the causal agent of citrus HLB in Florida. Bactericides containing the active ingredient oxytetracycline (OTC) have been used in foliar spray to control citrus HLB in Florida since 2016. However, the minimum concentration of OTC required to suppress CLas in planta remains unknown. We developed a new method for evaluating the effects of OTC treatment on CLas titers in infected plants and determined the relationship between OTC residue levels and control levels achieved for CLas using mathematical modeling in greenhouse and field experiments. In both greenhouse and field, OTC spray did not reduce the titers of CLas, and it produced undetectable or mild levels of OTC residue in leaves within 7 days post-application (DPA). In greenhouse, OTC injection at 0.05 g per tree decreased CLas titers to an undetectable level (cycle threshold value ≥ 36.0) from 7 to 30 DPA and produced a residue level of OTC at 0.68 to 0.73 µg/g of fresh tissue over this period. In the field, OTC injection at 0.50 g per tree resulted in the decline of CLas titers by 1.52 log reduction from 14 to 60 DPA, with residue levels of OTC at 0.27 to 0.33 µg/g of fresh tissue. In both trials, a first-order compart model of OTC residue dynamics in leaves of trunk-injected trees was specified for estimating the retention of effective concentrations. Furthermore, nonlinear modeling revealed significant positive correlations between OTC residue levels in leaves and the control levels for CLas achieved. The results suggested that the minimum concentrations of OTC required to suppress CLas populations in planta to below the detection limit are 0.68 and 0.86 µg/g and that the minimum concentrations of OTC required for initial inhibition of CLas growth in planta are ∼0.17 and ∼0.215 µg/g in leaf tissues under greenhouse and field conditions, respectively. This finding highlights that a minimum concentration of OTC should be guaranteed to be delivered to target CLas in infected plants for effective control of citrus HLB.
“Get to Know Me” Board
Authors: Gajic Ognjen , Anderson Ben D.
Published: August 2019

For best outcomes, clinicians in the ICU need to attend not only to the immediate clinical needs of the critically ill patient, but also to higher human needs including psychologic, social, and spiritual. Understanding your patient as another human being with her or his fears, desires, preferences, and accomplishments is obviously important in order to provide compassionate care and achieve goal concordant outcomes. In an ever-evolving technological ICU environment, this may not be an easy task. All too often, we focus on monitors, devices, electronic records, and ignore the human being. Patients labeled with a disability are particularly vulnerable. Recently, I had the privilege to participate in the care of a Mayo Clinic patient with a history of cerebral palsy. In the midst of a life-threatening emergency, by paying attention to the human touch, the ICU team learned the story of a truly remarkable person. The essay below summarizes the patient’s and physician’s perspectives.
Suicide and Traumatic Brain Injury Among Individuals Seeking Veterans Health Administration Services Between Fiscal Years 2006 and 2015
Authors: Hostetter Trisha A. , Hoffmire Claire A. , Forster Jeri E. , Adams Rachel Sayko , Stearns-Yoder Kelly A. , Brenner Lisa A.
Published: August 2019

Objective:

Examine associations between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and (1) suicide and (2) suicide method among individuals receiving Veterans Health Administration (VHA) care.

Setting:

VHA, Fiscal Years 2006-2015.

Participants:

Veterans with a TBI diagnosis during/prior to the study window (n = 215 610), compared with a 20% random sample of those without TBI (n = 1 187 639).

Design:

Retrospective, cohort study. Cox proportional hazards models were fit accounting for time-dependent measures, chronic conditions, and demographics for those with TBI compared with those without. Additional models evaluated the impact of TBI severity on the association between TBI and suicide, and method.

Main Outcome Measures:

Death by and method of suicide.

Results:

The hazard of suicide was 2.19 times higher for those with TBI than for those without TBI (95% CI = 2.02-2.37), and was still significant after accounting for covariates (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.71; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.56-1.87). Considering severity, mild TBI compared with no TBI was significantly associated with an elevated hazard of suicide, after adjusting for covariates (HR = 1.62; 95% CI = 1.47-1.78). There was also a significant difference in death by suicide between moderate/severe TBI when compared with no TBI, after adjusting for covariates (HR = 2.45; 95% CI = 2.02-2.97). Moderate/severe TBI was significantly associated with an increase in the odds of suicide by firearm among decedents (odds ratio = 2.39; 95% CI = 1.48-3.87).

Conclusion:

Traumatic brain injury is associated with an elevated risk for suicide. Particular concern is warranted for those with moderate/severe TBI. Lethal means safety should be explored as an intervention.
Tear Proteases and Protease Inhibitors: Potential Biomarkers and Disease Drivers in Ocular Surface Disease
Authors: Fu Runzhong , Klinngam Wannita , Heur Martin , Edman Maria C. , Hamm-Alvarez Sarah F.
Published: August 2019

Tears are highly concentrated in proteins relative to other biofluids, and a notable fraction of tear proteins are proteases and protease inhibitors. These components are present in a delicate equilibrium that maintains ocular surface homeostasis in response to physiological and temporal cues. Dysregulation of the activity of protease and protease inhibitors in tears occurs in ocular surface diseases including dry eye and infection, and ocular surface conditions including wound healing after refractive surgery and contact lens (CL) wear. Measurement of these changes can provide general information regarding ocular surface health and, increasingly, has the potential to give specific clues regarding disease diagnosis and guidance for treatment. Here, we review three major categories of tear proteases (matrix metalloproteinases, cathepsins, and plasminogen activators [PAs]) and their endogenous inhibitors (tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases, cystatins, and PA inhibitors), and the changes in these factors associated with dry eye, infection and allergy, refractive surgery, and CLs. We highlight suggestions for development of these and other protease/protease inhibitor biomarkers in this promising field.
Comprehensive Clinical, Diagnostic, and Advanced Imaging Characterization of the Ocular Surface in Spontaneous Aqueous Deficient Dry Eye Disease in Dogs
Authors: Leonard Brian C. , Stewart Kathleen A. , Shaw Gillian C. , Hoehn Alyssa L. , Stanley Amelia A. , Murphy Christopher J. , Thomasy Sara M.
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

To perform a comprehensive clinical, diagnostic, and imaging characterization of the ocular surface in West Highland White Terriers (WHWTs) diagnosed with aqueous deficient dry eye (ADDE) disease.

Methods:

Six ADDE-affected and 13 ADDE-unaffected WHWT dogs were enrolled and underwent clinical assessment and disease scoring, tear osmolarity, phenol red thread test, Schirmer tear test, tear film breakup time, fluorescein staining, Rose bengal and lissamine green vital dye staining, meibometry, corneal esthesiometry, ultrasound pachymetry, optical coherence tomography, in vivo confocal microscopy, and conjunctival biopsy. Subjective assessment of their condition was provided by owner-reported surveys.

Results:

ADDE-affected WHWT dogs had higher median clinical disease (conjunctiva: 5.75 vs. 0.00; cornea: 14.00 vs. 5.00; total: 17.50 vs. 5.00), vital staining (Rose bengal: 2.25 vs. 1.50; lissamine green: 2.00 vs. 1.00), and histologic disease (conjunctiva: 2 vs. 0) scores when compared with the controls. In addition, ADDE-affected WHWTs had significantly lower phenol red thread test (5.0 vs. 17.5, mm/15 s), Schirmer tear test (3 vs. 20, mm/min), tear film breakup time (3.6 vs. 13.9, s) values and higher area under the curve values for meibometry (394 vs. 245, meibometry units [MU]). There were no significant differences in other tear film tests performed. Advanced imaging revealed decreased tear meniscus height (optical coherence tomography) and variable pigment deposition within corneal epithelial cells (in vivo confocal microscopy).

Conclusions:

This comprehensive assessment of ADDE-affected WHWTs depicts the ocular surface changes associated with quantitative lacrimal gland dysfunction. Importantly, ADDE-affected WHWTs may prove a valuable naturally occurring ADDE model for investigating underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and the development of novel therapeutics.
Potentially inappropriate medicine prescribing by nurse practitioners in New Zealand
Authors: Poot Betty , Nelson Katherine , Zonneveld Rebecca , Weatherall Mark
Published: August 2019

Background and purpose:

Nurse practitioners (NPs) in New Zealand (NZ) prescribe a broad range of medicines; little is known about their prescribing practice for older adults. Potentially inappropriate medicines (PIMs) can cause more harm than benefit. This study reports on the prescribing of PIMs to older adults (≥65 years) by NPs in NZ.

Methods:

A subset analysis using data from NZ Ministry of Health pharmaceutical collection from 2013 to 2015 was completed. Data included NP registration number, medicines dispensed, patient age, sex, and NZ Deprivation level. Those <65 years were excluded. Beers 2015 criteria were used to identify the PIMs.

Results:

There were 106 NPs that prescribed medicines to 12,410 patients aged ≥65 years. One third of the patients were prescribed ≥1 PIMss. Most (68.4%) were prescribed one PIM; 21.9% two PIMs; 7.1% three PIMs; and 2.6% were prescribed ≥4 PIMs. NPs prescribed an average of 14.9% PIMs. Primary care NPs were more likely to prescribe PIMs, compared to those with a scope of older adults and long-term conditions (p ≤ 0.001). The most common Beers 2015 PIMs prescribed were proton pump inhibitors, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alpha blockers, hypnotics, tricyclic antidepressants, and benzodiazepines.

Implications for practice:

NPs prescribe lower rates of PIMs to older adults than other prescribers in NZ. However, prescribing practices can be improved and the findings indicate that a more specific educational focus on prescribing to older adults is required. The findings provide an important baseline internationally for NP PIM prescribing and can be used by NPs, and educationally to review and improve practices.
Diversity and dysmorphology
Authors: Kruszka Paul , Tekendo-Ngongang Cedrik , Muenke Maximilian
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

Dysmorphic features result from errors in morphogenesis frequently associated with genetic syndromes. Recognizing patterns of dysmorphic features is a critical step in the diagnosis and management of human congenital anomalies and genetic syndromes. This review presents recent developments in genetic syndromes and their related dysmorphology in diverse populations.

Recent findings

Clinical findings in patients with genetic syndromes differ in their heterogeneity across different population groups. Some genetic syndromes have variable features in different ethnicities, in part due to specific background exam characteristics such as flat facial profiles or nasal differences; however, other genetic syndromes are similar across different ethnicities. Facial analysis technology is accurate in diagnosing genetic syndromes in populations around the world and is a powerful adjunct to conventional clinical examination. This accuracy also reinforces the concept that genetic syndromes can and should be diagnosed in any ethnicity.

The increasing amount of data from studies on genetic syndromes in diverse populations is significantly improving our knowledge and approach to dysmorphic patients from various ethnic backgrounds. Optimal management of genetic syndromes requires early diagnosis, including in developing countries.
Chimeric xenotransplantation
Authors: Oldani Graziano , Lacotte Stéphanie , Toso Christian
Published: August 2019

Purpose of review

Organ transplantation is an effective treatment for selected patients with end-stage organ disease or specific cancer types. Its main limitations are the chronic lack of grafts and the lifetime need for immunosuppression. The advent of autologous organs generated into xenogeneic species has the potential to solve these issues.

Recent findings

The current review discusses about the recent discoveries in the filed of organ generation by interspecific pre and postimplantation embryo complementation. Moreover, it describes the recent progress in postnatal xenogeneic liver repopulation and the transplantation of chimeric tissues and organs.

Thanks to the groundbreaking discoveries of the last few years, these strategies are becoming more and more real, yet with still a number of key steps to overcome.
The Anatomy of the Sigmoid-Transverse Junction According to the Tentorial Angle
Authors: Vatansever Alper , Mut Melike , Ergun K. Mine , Oğuz Kader Karli , Gümeler Ekim , Bulut Elif , Tatar Ilkan
Published: August 2019

Dural sinuses have critical importance during intracranial approaches. Detailed anatomical knowledge of the dural sinuses is crucial for surgeons to reduce unexpected venous bleeding. The aim of this study was to investigate anatomical relation of sigmoid sinus and tentorium cerebelli according to clinically palpable landmarks and cranial morphometry. The authors evaluated 222 individuals’ (94 women, 128 men) 3-dimensional computed tomography angiograms, retrospectively. The authors also studied on 12 mid-sagittal cut dried hemiskulls and 8 formalin fixed cadaver heads hemisected midsagitally. All measurements were completed using Osirix-Lite version 9 software. Craniometrical values were measured to define cranium morphology. Furthermore, level of the sigmoid sinus according to asterion and tentorial angle were evaluated in detail. Our results demonstrated that there were significant differences between parameters and genders, except vertical angle of the tentorium cerebelli. Distance between asterion and sigmoid sinus was statistically different between right and left sides in favor of the left side. This also varied depending on the position of the sigmoid sinus, as well. Only transverse angle between the upper point of external acoustic meatus and asterion demonstrated a significant correlation with age. This study evaluated the detailed 3D anatomy of sigmoid sinus and tentorium cerebelli related with the cranium morphology. Determining to sigmoid sinus anatomy according to clinically palpable landmarks has advantages for setting surgical protocols and reducing to unexpected injuries while surgery to these structures.
Bonegraft Wrap Technique: Avoiding Accentuated Labiomental Groove After Genioplasty
Authors: Klüppel Leandro Eduardo , Trento Guilherme , Claudino Guilherme , Sebastiani Aline Monise , Scariot Rafaela
Published: August 2019

This work presents the wrap technique developed by the authors aiming to avoid the occurrence of unaesthetic deep labiomental fold in genioplasty. The technique recommends the use of particulate bone graft that is wrapped on collagen or a Surgicel membrane which is placed over the osteotomized segment of the chin fixated with a prebent 4-hole titanium plate.
The Role of Bacterial Etiology in the Tear Duct Infections Secondary to Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstructions
Authors: Bekmez Sinan , Eriş Erdem , Altan Emir Volkan , Dursun Vecihe
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

To define the microbiological features of dacryocystitis in childhood.

Methods:

Patients with dacryocystitis secondary to CNLDO between 2017 and 2019 in Izmir, Turkey were included in the study. Inclusion criteria of the study were: mucopurulent secretion, being under 4 years old and not having received prior antibiotic treatment. Samples from secretion were cultivated in sheep blood agar, eosin methylene blue, and chocolate agar. Reproduction was checked intermittently. Clinically significant growths were reported.

Results:

Seventy patients with dacryocystitis secondary to CNLDO were included in the study. Sixty percent of patients were female (n = 42) and 40% (n = 28) percent of patients were male. The average age of participants was 2.09 ± 0.68 (1–3) years old. Positive bacterial proliferation results were noted in 20 patients (28.6%). Eighty percent (n = 16) of culture-positive bacterias were gram-negative bacterias and 20% (4) were gram-positive bacterias. Twenty percent of culture-positive bacterias were aerobic and 80% were facultative bacterias. The most common bacteria seen in culture specimen was Haemophilus 40% (Haemophilus haemolyticus [20%] and Haemophilus influenzae [20%]).

Conclusions:

Gram-negative organisms especially Haemophilus were most prevalent. These findings could be helpful for antibiotic selection.
The Effects of Intraoperative Tarsorrhaphy on Conjunctival Chemosis During Orbital Fracture Repair Surgery
Authors: Wang Yang , Yang Fan , Li Zhengkang , Deng Yuan
Published: August 2019

Purpose:

We employed intraoperative tarsorrhaphy depending on the degree of edema to treat moderate conjunctival chemosis during orbital fracture repair surgery.

Methods:

This is a retrospective case review of 1367 patients (1384 eyes) who underwent orbital fracture repair surgery by a transconjunctival approach. All cases of moderate conjunctival chemosis during surgery were included and were divided into 2 groups. In one group, intraoperative tarsorrhaphy was performed immediately the chemosis reached a moderate degree and the conjunctiva was incarcerated by the lower eyelid margin; once severe chemosis developed, stitches were added to cover all of the prolapsed conjunctiva with a palpebral margin. In the second group, moderate chemosis was treated with bandage pressure without stitches even after appearance of severe chemosis. The time course of conjunctival edema was recorded.

Results:

The incidence of moderate conjunctival chemosis in orbital reconstruction surgery by the transconjunctival approach was 9.4%. The average time for resolution of moderate chemosis in the tarsorrhaphy group (3.5 ± 1.4 days) was obviously shorter than in the bandage group (6.2 ± 1.9 days). The incidence of severe chemosis in the intraoperative tarsorrhaphy group (14.1%) was significantly lower than in the bandage group (31.8%). Overall, the total duration of severe chemosis in the tarsorrhaphy group was obviously shorter than that of the bandage group.

Conclusion:

Intraoperative tarsorrhaphy was a highly effective method of treating moderate chemosis and preventing severe conjunctival chemosis during orbital fracture repair surgery.
Comparative genome analysis of Lactobacillus mudanjiangensis, an understudied member of the Lactobacillus plantarum group
Authors: Wuyts Sander , Allonsius Camille Nina , Wittouck Stijn , Thys Sofie , Lievens Bart , Weckx Stefan , De Vuyst Luc , Sarah Lebeer
Published: August 2019

The genus

Lactobacillus

is known to be extremely diverse and consists of different phylogenetic groups that show a diversity that is roughly equal to the expected diversity of a typical bacterial genus. One of the most prominent phylogenetic groups within this genus is the

Lactobacillus plantarum

group, which contains the understudied

Lactobacillus mudanjiangensis

species. Before this study, only one

L. mudanjiangensis

strain, DSM 28402T, had been described, but without whole-genome analysis. In this study, three strains classified as

L. mudanjiangensis

were isolated from three different carrot juice fermentations and their whole-genome sequence was determined, together with the genome sequence of the type strain. The genomes of all four strains were compared with publicly available

L. plantarum

group genome sequences. This analysis showed that

L. mudanjiangensis

harboured the second largest genome size and gene count of the whole

L. plantarum

group. In addition, all members of this species showed the presence of a gene coding for a cellulose-degrading enzyme. Finally, three of the four

L. mudanjiangensis

strains studied showed the presence of pili on scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, which were linked to conjugative gene regions, coded on a plasmid in at least two of the strains studied.
Microbe Profile: Streptomyces coelicolor: a burlesque of pigments and phenotypes
Authors: Nodwell Justin R.
Published: August 2019

The streptomycetes are soil-dwelling bacteria that are found in soil everywhere on Earth: the molecule geosmin, which they produce as part of their life cycle, is what gives soil its familiar ‘earthy’ smell. The species is best known for the production of biologically active small molecules called ‘natural products’. These molecules are the source of most of our antibiotics and anti-fungals, as well as many other drugs. The streptomycetes have a filamentous form rather than the more familiar rod-shaped spirochete and coccoid forms. They exhibit a complex life cycle and sporulation mechanism involving several differentiated cell types, each having specific roles in the colony life history.

Streptomyces coelicolor

is an important model system for this genus – research on this bacterium has provided foundational information for all of these fascinating processes.
Incubation periods impact the spatial predictability of outbreaks: analysis of cholera and Ebola outbreaks in Sierra Leone
Authors: Kahn Rebecca , Peak Corey M. , Fernández-Gracia Juan , Hill Alexandra , Jambai Amara , Ganda Louisa , Castro Marcia C. , Buckee Caroline O.
Published: August 2019

Forecasting the spatiotemporal spread of infectious diseases during an outbreak is an important component of epidemic response. However, it remains challenging both methodologically and with respect to data requirements as disease spread is influenced by numerous factors, including the pathogen’s underlying transmission parameters and epidemiological dynamics, social networks and population connectivity, and environmental conditions. Here, using data from Sierra Leone we analyze the spatiotemporal dynamics of recent cholera and Ebola outbreaks and compare and contrast the spread of these two pathogens in the same population. We develop a simulation model of the spatial spread of an epidemic in order to examine the impact of a pathogen’s incubation period on the dynamics of spread and the predictability of outbreaks. We find that differences in the incubation period alone can determine the limits of predictability for diseases with different natural history, both empirically and in our simulations. Our results show that diseases with longer incubation periods, such as Ebola, where infected individuals can travel further before becoming infectious, result in more long-distance sparking events and less predictable disease trajectories, as compared to the more predictable wave-like spread of diseases with shorter incubation periods, such as cholera.

Significance statement

Understanding how infectious diseases spread is critical for preventing and containing outbreaks. While advances have been made in forecasting epidemics, much is still unknown. Here we show that the incubation period – the time between exposure to a pathogen and onset of symptoms – is an important factor in predicting spatiotemporal spread of disease and provides one explanation for the different trajectories of the recent Ebola and cholera outbreaks in Sierra Leone. We find that outbreaks of pathogens with longer incubation periods, such as Ebola, tend to have less predictable spread, whereas pathogens with shorter incubation periods, such as cholera, spread in a more predictable, wavelike pattern. These findings have implications for the scale and timing of reactive interventions, such as vaccination campaigns.
Tolerance to NADH/NAD+ imbalance anticipates aging and anti-aging interventions
Authors: Alonso-Lavin Alvar J. , Bajić Djordje , Poyatos Juan F.
Published: August 2019

Redox couples coordinate cellular function, but the consequences of their imbalances are unclear. This is somewhat associated with the limitations of their experimental quantification. Here we circumvent these difficulties by presenting a new approach that characterizes fitness-based tolerance profiles to redox couple imbalances using an in silico representation of metabolism. Focusing on the NADH/NAD+ redox couple in yeast, we demonstrate that reductive disequilibria generate metabolic syndromes comparable to those observed in cancer cells. The tolerance of yeast mutants to redox disequilibrium can also explain 30% of the variability in their experimentally measured chronological lifespan. Moreover, by predicting the significance of some metabolites to help stand imbalances, we correctly identify nutrients underlying mechanisms of pathology, lifespan-protecting molecules or caloric restriction mimetics. Tolerance to redox imbalances becomes thus a valid framework to recognize fundamental properties of the aging phenotype while providing a firm biological rationale to assess anti-aging interventions.
The porcine deltacoronavirus replication organelle comprises double membrane vesicles and zippered endoplasmic reticulum with double membrane spherules
Authors: Doyle Nicole , Hawes Philippa C. , Simpson Jennifer , Adams Lorin H. , Maier Helena J.
Published: August 2019

Porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) was first identified in Hong Kong in 2012 from samples taken from pigs in 2009. PDCoV was subsequently identified in the USA in 2014 in pigs with a history of severe diarrhea and the virus has now been detected in pigs in several countries around the world. Following the development of tissue culture adapted strains of PDCoV, it is now possible to begin to address questions regarding virus-host cell interactions for this genera of coronavirus. Here we present a detailed study of PDCoV induced replication organelles. All positive strand RNA viruses induce the rearrangement of cellular membranes during virus replication to support viral RNA synthesis, forming the replication organelle. Replication organelles for theAlpha-,Beta- andGammacoronavirusgenera have been characterized. However the structures induced by deltacoronaviruses, in particular the presence of convoluted membranes or double membrane spherules, are unknown. Initially, the dynamics of PDCoV strain OH-FD22 replication were assessed with the onset of viral RNA synthesis, protein synthesis and progeny particle release determined. Subsequently, virus induced membrane rearrangements were identified in infected cells by electron microscopy. As has been observed for all other coronaviruses studied to date, PDCoV replication was found to induce the formation of double membrane vesicles. Significantly however, PDCoV replication was also found to induce the formation of regions of zippered endoplasmic reticulum and small associated tethered vesicles, double membrane spherules. These structures strongly resemble the replication organelle induced by avianGammacoronavirusinfectious bronchitis virus.