bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent progress in the utilization of industrial waste and by‐products of citrus fruits: A review
Authors: Chavan Prasad , Singh Avdesh Kumar , Kaur Gagandeep
Published: October 2018

Citrus fruits are major processed fruits in the world that results in generation of large quantities of by‐products, which are rich sources of soluble sugars, cellulose, hemicellulose, pectin, and essential oils. However, very large amount of residues is end up at agriculture field or dumping pit as waste. The present review highlights the technologies and processes for utilization of the citrus by‐products viz., feed for extraction of essential oils, charcoal and bio‐oil production, hydrogen syngas etc. Citrus pulp a very effective agent for removal of metals and chemicals in and effluent generated by industries by adsorption technique. Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell developed by synthesis of activated carbon from citrus pulp is considered to be next generation potential power. In order to make rational use of this valuable resource and protect the environment, the present study aims at comprehensive utilization of this value added by‐products.

Practical Applications

In the present scenario of fast developing world, the generation of waste is increasing day by day in large quantities which influences the heath of ecosystem and ultimately the human health. Adaptation of advanced technologies and processes is not only a technique of waste management but also generate an alternative to environment polluting substances through development of craft paper, biodiesel, activated carbon along with development of value added food products such as extruded, pectin extraction, essential oils, etc. Increased scope of product development increases the overall returns to manufacturer, employment generation and sustainable socio‐economic development and maintains environmental stability.
Modeling sterilization value and nutrient degradation in the thermal processing of liquid foods under diffusive laminar flow with associations of tubular heat exchangers
Authors: Dantas Jorge Aliomar Trocoli Abdon , Gut Jorge Andrey Wilhelms
Published: October 2018

Thermal processing of a liquid food under diffusive laminar flow was modeled coupling fluid flow, heat transfer, diffusion, and inactivation/degradation kinetics. Model considers associated countercurrent tubular exchangers for heating and cooling and the holding tube. Axial and radial distributions of temperature and concentration in the food product (non‐Newtonian power‐law flow) were accounted and parameters for effective diffusion of heat and mass were used to model enhanced transfer from corrugate tubes or coils. Heat exchanged with environment was included. A case study of 40.2 °Brix blackberry juice pasteurization is presented, and results discussed. Influence of effective diffusivities, inlet heating media temperature and product flow rate were analyzed, and it was possible to minimize anthocyanin degradation while meeting food safety requirements (5‐log reduction on yeasts) considering the contributions from the whole process.

Practical applications

Mathematical modeling of a chemical process based on first principles, also called physical or phenomenological models, is a powerful tool to couple fluid flow, heat transfer, mass diffusion, and reaction kinetics, thus creating a virtual prototype of the process that is useful for design, analysis, control, and optimization. The model presented considers important features that are often neglected in process design, but without unnecessarily increasing complexity and computational requirements, such as in a CFD model (computational fluid dynamics) that requires a detailed representation of the geometry and specialized software and hardware for simulation. Lower computational times allow the use of this model to solve optimization or predictive control problems with a reliable representation of transport phenomena and reaction kinetics.
Effect of Relocation on Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Elderly Adults Living in Long‐Term Care
Authors: Haddad Kamal El , de Souto Barreto Philipe , Gerard Stephane , Prouff Aurelie , Vellas Bruno , Rolland Yves
Published: October 2018

OBJECTIVES

To determine the evolution of behavioral and psychiatric symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in nursing home (NH) residents after an environmental change through a relocation to a more architecturally suitable facility, while conserving the same medical staff.

DESIGN

Prospective, single arm study.

SETTING

Long‐term care unit.

PARTICIPANTS

NH residents (N=116; median age 82.3, range 75.5–89.2; median Neuropsychiatric Inventory for the Nursing Home (NPI/NH) score 22, range 11–34.5; 66.3% female), of whom 102 lived in regular units and 14 in specialized care units (SCUs).

MEASUREMENTS

Neuropsychiatric symptoms were evaluated as part of a comprehensive geriatric assessment for each resident 1 week before the relocation and 3 times after the relocation (1, 4, 12 weeks) using the NPI/NH.

RESULTS

A mixed‐effect linear model found no significant change in global NPI/NH score in the regular unit and a significant decrease in overall NPI/NH score 4 weeks after relocation in the SCUs (β‐coefficient for time by SCU=–11.5, 95% confidence interval (CI)=−17.9–5.2, p < .001), reaching a total decrease of 13 points by 12 weeks after relocation (β‐coefficient for time by SCU=–12.8, 95% CI=−19.1–6.4, p < .001). A statistically significant decrease of 3 points for disinhibition, apathy, and agitation accompanied the NPI/NH score in the secured unit. An increase of 3 points in aberrant motor behavior was seen by 12 weeks after relocation in the SCU.

CONCLUSION

Relocation to an architecturally different facility significantly reduced BPSD of NH residents 1 month after relocation. J Am Geriatr Soc 66:2183–2187, 2018.
Astrocyte support is important for the compensatory potential of the nigrostriatal system neurons during early neurodegeneration
Authors: Kuter Katarzyna , Olech Łukasz , Głowacka Urszula , Paleczna Martyna
Published: October 2018

Glial pathology precedes symptoms of Parkinson's disease and multiple other neurodegenerative diseases. Prolonged impairment of astrocytic functions could increase the vulnerability of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN), accelerate their degeneration and affect ability to compensate for partial degeneration at the presymptomatic stages of the disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the astrocyte depletion in the SN, its impact on the dopaminergic system functioning and multiple markers of energy metabolism during the early stages of neurodegeneration and compensation. We induced death of 30% of astrocytes by chronic infusion of fluorocitrate (FC) into the SN, simultaneously activating microglia response but sparing the dopaminergic neurons. The FC effect was reversible after toxin withdrawal. Dopaminergic neurons were killed by 6‐hydroxydopamine causing transient locomotor disability, reversed with time showing compensatory potential. Death of astrocytes diminished the capability of the dopaminergic system to compensate for the degeneration of neurons and caused a local energy deprivation by decreasing lactate and glycogen amount. Studied markers suggest a shift in the usage of energy substrates, via increased glycogenolysis and glycolysis markers, ketone bodies availability and fatty acid transport in remaining cells. Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐gamma coactivator 1α (PGC‐1alpha) and AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), the energy sensors, showed different regulation between the cell‐types. Increased neuronal expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1c could play a role in the adaptation to metabolic stress in response to glia dysfunction. Astrocyte energetic support is one of the essential factors for neuronal compensatory mechanisms of dopaminergic system and might have a leading role in the presymptomatic Parkinson's disease stages.

Open science badges

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The Dark Side of Deeply Meaningful Work: Work‐Relationship Turmoil and the Moderating Role of Occupational Value Homophily
Authors: Oelberger Carrie R.
Published: October 2018

How are close personal relationships experienced by people in deeply meaningful work? Drawing upon in‐depth interview data with 82 international aid workers, I offer three distinct contributions. First, I find that people who experience their work as deeply meaningful have high work devotion. I identify boundary inhibition as a mechanism to explain why they participate more willingly in overwork and erratic work, despite giving rise to time‐ and trust‐based conflict in their relationships. Second, I find that people with high work devotion often also experience emotional distance in their personal relationships when their close others don’t value their work – a context I call occupational value heterophily. This disconnection‐based conflict compounds the time‐ and trust‐based conflict and engenders an emotionally agonizing situation, which I call work‐relationship turmoil. Third, when close others do value their partner’s work – a context I call occupational value homophily – it fosters an emotional connection and offers an avenue for work‐relationship enrichment. These findings draw upon deeply meaningful work to detail the multi‐faceted work‐relationship experience among those with high work devotion.
A Prosthesis Retention System for Full‐Arch, Fixed, Implant‐Supported Prosthesis
Authors: Massad Joseph , Wicks Russell , Ahuja Swati , Cagna David R.
Published: October 2018

Full‐arch, fixed, implant‐supported prostheses can be designed to be cement‐ or screw‐retained. Both retention mechanisms have a few inherent disadvantages. A fixed attachment system has been introduced to circumvent the disadvantages of both screw and cement retention. This system eliminates the screw access holes and the use of cement. The number of intraoral procedures required is also reduced. The purpose of this article is to report a case using the Locator F‐Tx Attachment System to facilitate fabrication of an esthetic, clinician‐retrievable, full‐arch implant‐supported fixed dental prosthesis.
Motor impairments in children: More than just the clumsy child
Authors: Spittle Alicia J , FitzGerald Tara , Mentiplay Benjamin , Williams Jacqueline , Licari Melissa
Published: October 2018

Developmental co‐ordination disorder is a motor skill disorder that affects an estimated 5–6% of children but lacks recognition and understanding, leading to under‐diagnosis. Essential for diagnosis is a marked impairment in motor co‐ordination that significantly impacts daily living, including education. Although ‘clumsiness’ is often dismissed, the impact of this disorder is significant and extends beyond motor skills into physical and psychological health and educational and vocational success. This is discussed here with regard to the framework of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. This review also discusses the importance of an accurate, early diagnosis and factors that inhibit this; dual diagnosis with comorbid neurodevelopmental disorders; the multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and the role of the paediatrician within this; and current evidence regarding the most effective interventions.
Recognition of attachment difficulties and developmental trauma is the responsibility of all paediatricians
Authors: Kaiser Samantha , Zimmet Marcel , Fraser Jolene , Liddle Karen , Roberts Gehan
Published: October 2018

This article provides an overview of attachment theory, developmental trauma and trauma‐informed care for paediatricians. The impact of difficult or impoverished parent–child relationships on brain development and long‐term health is now well known. Recent neuroscience research reveals the adverse neurological impacts of developmental trauma and supports the biological basis of attachment theory. There is also an increasing body of evidence that childhood adversity is common and impacts physical and mental health throughout the life‐span. Comprehensive paediatric assessment should include an understanding of attachment difficulties and developmental trauma. Viewing children and their families through a ‘trauma‐informed lens’ can provide critical insights into their clinical presentation and care needs. All paediatricians should be providing and practicing trauma‐informed care.
Specific learning disability
Authors: McDowell Michael
Published: October 2018

Specific learning disabilities (SLD) have an impact on discrete areas of academic function. They result in a level of difficulty that is unexpected when considered in the context of a student's overall intellectual and academic competence. A common example is dyslexia, an SLD that affects the acquisition of literacy. Medical professionals have an important role to play in the evaluation and management of SLD. The medical role is founded on the fact that these conditions are biologically based and have the potential to cause significant harm for the developing child. Even if details of biological causation are not possible to demonstrate for individual children, medical professionals may, nevertheless, make an important judgement call regarding the likelihood of aetiology. When learning problems are medically based, it is clearly unreasonable to expect children to do more than they are able and to learn faster than is reasonable. Advocacy around these biological presumptions and their implications is a major contribution to the well‐being of children who have SLD.
Ultrasound‐guided catheterization of the femoral artery in a canine model of acute hemorrhagic shock
Authors: Pavlisko Noah D. , Soares João Henrique N. , Henao‐Guerrero Natalia P. , Williamson Ellen J.
Published: October 2018

Objective

To describe a technique for gaining ultrasound‐guided access to the femoral artery in an experimental model of acute hemorrhagic shock in anesthetized dogs.

Case Series Summary

Five healthy, purpose‐bred adult male intact Beagles were enrolled in a respiratory mechanics study under general anesthesia. Upon completion of the primary study a hypovolemic state was induced by blood removal to achieve a mean arterial pressure ≤ 55 mm Hg. Dogs were positioned in dorsal recumbency with the hind limb extended caudally. An ultrasound probe was applied to the medial aspect of the hind limb and positioned in the transverse orientation so that the femoral artery was visualized in its short axis. The artery was identified by lack of compression and presence of visible pulsation. The probe was rotated 90° into the longitudinal orientation such that the artery was visualized in its long axis. Under ultrasound guidance a 19‐gauge introducer needle was advanced into the lumen of the femoral artery. Using a modified Seldinger technique the needle was removed and a catheter was placed in the femoral artery. Correct placement of the catheter was verified by observation of the characteristic arterial blood pressure waveform. Upon completion of the study dogs were humanely euthanized. The femoral artery was successfully catheterized in 4/5 dogs and a hematoma was reported in 1/5 dogs.

New or Unique Information Provided

Ultrasound‐guided femoral artery catheterization is feasible on anesthetized dogs with concurrent acute hemorrhagic shock.
Comparative blood donation knowledge attitudes and practice surveys from two multi‐ethnic communities
Authors: Charles Kenneth S. , Bhagwansingh Sudha
Published: October 2018

A recently published blood donation knowledge, attitudes and practice community survey from a developing country with family replacement donation were repeated in a developed country with exclusively voluntary non‐remunerated blood donors (VNRD). Higher altruism, information, access and percentage donors were observed in the VNRD‐based system. A family member or friend in need of blood was a powerful incentive for VNRDs. The importance of information, convenience and a regulatory pathway for VNRD was confirmed. Family replacement donation could be used to attract first‐time donors before conversion to regular VNRDs.
The postnatal development of ultrasonic vocalization‐associated breathing is altered in glycine transporter 2‐deficient mice
Authors: Hülsmann Swen , Oke Yoshihiko , Mesuret Guillaume , Latal A. Tobias , Fortuna Michal G. , Niebert Marcus , Hirrlinger Johannes , Fischer Julia , Hammerschmidt Kurt
Published: October 2018

Key points

Newborn mice produce ultrasonic vocalization to communicate with their mother.

The neuronal glycine transporter (GlyT2) is required for efficient loading of synaptic vesicles in glycinergic neurons.

Mice lacking GlyT2 develop a phenotype that resembles human hyperekplexia and the mice die in the second postnatal week.

In the present study, we show that GlyT2‐knockout mice do not acquire adult ultrasonic vocalization‐associated breathing patterns.

Despite the strong impairment of glycinergic inhibition, they can produce sufficient expiratory airflow to produce ultrasonic vocalization.

Because mouse ultrasonic vocalization is a valuable read‐out in translational research, these data are highly relevant for a broad range of research fields.

Mouse models are instrumental with respect to determining the genetic basis and neural foundations of breathing regulation. To test the hypothesis that glycinergic synaptic inhibition is required for normal breathing and proper post‐inspiratory activity, we analysed breathing and ultrasonic vocalization (USV) patterns in neonatal mice lacking the neuronal glycine transporter (GlyT2). GlyT2‐knockout (KO) mice have a profound reduction of glycinergic synaptic currents already at birth, develop a severe motor phenotype and survive only until the second postnatal week. At this stage, GlyT2‐KO mice are smaller, have a reduced respiratory rate and still display a neonatal breathing pattern with active expiration for the production of USV. By contrast, wild‐type mice acquire different USV‐associated breathing patterns that depend on post‐inspiratory control of air flow. Nonetheless, USVs per se remain largely indistinguishable between both genotypes. We conclude that GlyT2‐KO mice, despite the strong impairment of glycinergic inhibition, can produce sufficient expiratory airflow to produce ultrasonic vocalization.
Sequence analysis and enzyme kinetics of the L2 serine beta-lactamase from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
Authors: Walsh T R , MacGowan A P , Bennett P M
Published: October 2018

The L2 serine active-site beta-lactamase from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia has been classified as a clavulanic acid-sensitive cephalosporinase. The gene encoding this enzyme from S. maltophilia 1275 IID has been cloned on a 3.3-kb fragment into pK18 under the control of a Ptac promoter to generate recombinant plasmid pUB5840; when expressed in Escherichia coli, this gene confers resistance to cephalosporins and penicillins. Sequence analysis has revealed an open reading frame (ORF) of 909 bp with a GC content of 71.6%, comparable to that of the L1 metallo-beta-lactamase gene (68.4%) from the same bacterium. The ORF encodes an unmodified protein of 303 amino acids with a predicted molecular mass of 31.5 kDa, accommodating a putative leader peptide of 27 amino acids. Comparison of the amino acid sequence with those of other beta-lactamases showed it to be most closely related (54% identity) to the BLA-A beta-lactamase from Yersinia enterocolitica. Sequence identity is most obvious near the STXK active-site motif and the SDN loop motif common to all serine active-site penicillinases. Sequences outside the conserved regions display low homology with comparable regions of other class A penicillinases. Kinetics of the enzyme from the cloned gene demonstrated an increase in activity with cefotaxime but markedly less activity with imipenem than previously reported. Hence, the S. maltophilia L2 beta-lactamase is an inducible Ambler class A beta-lactamase which would account for the sensitivity to clavulanic acid.
Class 1 Integron-Borne Multiple-Antibiotic Resistance Carried by IncFI and IncL/M Plasmids in
Salmonella enterica
Serotype Typhimurium
Authors: Tosini Fabio , Visca Paolo , Luzzi Ida , Dionisi Anna Maria , Pezzella Cristina , Petrucca Andrea , Carattoli Alessandra
Published: October 2018

The presence and genetic content of integrons were investigated for 37 epidemiologically unrelated multiple-drug-resistant strains of
Salmonella enterica
serotype Typhimurium from humans. All isolates were resistant to ampicillin, chloramphenicol, kanamycin, streptomycin, sulfonamides, and trimethoprim, as well as to tetracycline and/or nalidixic acid; 20% of them were also resistant to gentamicin and amikacin. Three different class 1 integrons (In-t1, In-t2, and In-t3) were identified by Southern blot hybridization, PCR, and DNA sequencing, and these integrons were found to carry the
aadB
,
catB3
,
oxa1
,
aadA1a
,
aacA4
, and
aacC1
gene cassettes. Integrons In-t1 (
aadB
and
catB3
) and In-t2 (
oxa1
and
aadA1a
) were both located on a conjugative IncFI plasmid of 140 kb. In-t3 (
aacA4
,
aacC1
, and
aadAIa
) was located on an IncL/M plasmid of 100 kb which was present, in association with the IncFI plasmid, in gentamicin- and amikacin-resistant isolates. Despite the extensive similarity at the level of the antibiotic resistance phenotype, integrons were not found on the prototypic IncFI plasmids carried by epidemic
Salmonella
strains isolated during the late 1970s. The recent appearance and the coexistence of multiple integrons on two conjugative plasmids in the same
Salmonella
isolate are examples of how mobile gene cassettes may contribute to the acquisition and dissemination of antibiotic resistance.
Effects of Antibiotic Therapy on
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
-Induced Lung Injury in a Rat Model
Authors: Ernst Erika J. , Hashimoto Satoru , Guglielmo Joseph , Sawa Teiji , Pittet Jean-Francois , Kropp Helmut , Jackson Jesse J. , Wiener-Kronish Jeanine P.
Published: October 2018

The effect of antibiotics on the acute lung injury induced by virulent
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
PA103 was quantitatively analyzed in a rat model. Lung injury was induced by the instillation of PA103 directly into the right lower lobes of the lungs of anesthetized rats. The alveolar epithelial injury, extravascular lung water, and total plasma equivalents were measured as separate, independent parameters of acute lung injury. Four hours after the instillation of PA103, all the parameters were increased linearly depending on the dose of
P. aeruginosa
. Next, we examined the effects of intravenously administered antibiotics on the parameters of acute lung injury in
d
-galactosamine-sensitized rats. One hour after the rats received 10
7
CFU of PA103, an intravenous bolus injection of aztreonam (60 mg/kg) or imipenem-cilastatin (30 mg/kg) was administered. Despite an MIC indicating resistance, imipenem-cilastatin improved all the measurements of lung injury; in contrast, aztreonam, which had an MIC indicating sensitivity, did not improve any of the lung injury parameters. The antibiotics did not generate different quantities of plasma endotoxin; therefore, endotoxin did not appear to explain the differences in lung injury. This in vivo model is useful to quantitatively compare the efficacies of parenteral antibiotic administration on
Pseudomonas
airspace infections.
Carbapenem Derivatives as Potential Inhibitors of Various β-Lactamases, Including Class B Metallo-β-Lactamases
Authors: Nagano Rie , Adachi Yuka , Imamura Hideaki , Yamada Koji , Hashizume Terutaka , Morishima Hajime
Published: October 2018

A variety of 1β-methylcarbapenem derivatives were screened to identify inhibitors of IMP-1 metallo-β-lactamase, a class B β-lactamase, in an automated microassay system using nitrocefin as a substrate. The structure–inhibitory-activity relationship study revealed that three types of 1β-methylcarbapenems having benzothienylthio, dithiocarbamate, or pyrrolidinylthio moieties at the C-2 position showed good inhibitory activity. Among the compounds screened, J-110,441, having a benzothienylthio moiety at the C-2 position of 1β-methylcarbapenem, was the most potent inhibitor of class B metallo-β-lactamases with

K
i

values of 0.0037, 0.23, 1.00, and 0.83 μM for IMP-1 encoded by the
bla
IMP
gene, CcrA from
Bacteroides fragilis
, L1 from
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
, and type II from
Bacillus cereus
, respectively. In a further characterization study, J-110,441 also showed inhibitory activity against TEM-type class A serine β-lactamase and chromosomal class C serine β-lactamase from
Enterobacter cloacae
with

K
i

values of 2.54 and 0.037 μM, respectively. Combining imipenem or ceftazidime with J-110,441 had a synergistic effect on the antimicrobial activity against β-lactamase-producing bacteria. Against the isolates of IMP-1-producing
Serratia marcescens
, the MICs of imipenem decreased to levels ranging from 1/64 to 1/4 in the presence of one-fourth of the MIC of J-110,441. Against
E. cloacae
producing high levels of class C β-lactamase, the MIC of ceftazidime decreased from 64 to 4 μg/ml in the presence of 4 μg of J-110,441 per ml. This is the first report to describe a new class of inhibitor of class B and class C β-lactamases including transferable IMP-1 metallo-β-lactamases.
Interstrain Variation in the Human Cytomegalovirus DNA Polymerase Sequence and Its Effect on Genotypic Diagnosis of Antiviral Drug Resistance
Authors: Chou Sunwen , Lurain Nell S. , Weinberg Adriana , Cai Guang-Yung , Sharma Prem L. , Crumpacker Clyde S. ,   Adult Aids Clinical Trials Group CMV Laboratories
Published: October 2018

The polymerase (
pol
) coding sequence was determined for 40 independent clinical cytomegalovirus isolates sensitive to ganciclovir and foscarnet. Sequence alignments showed >98% interstrain homology and amino acid variation in only 4% of the 1,237 codons. Almost all variation occurred outside of conserved functional domains where resistance mutations have been identified.
Rhizosphere Microbial Response to Multiple Metal(loid)s in Different Contaminated Arable Soils Indicates Crop-Specific Metal-Microbe Interactions
Authors: Sun Weimin , Xiao Enzong , Krumins Valdis , Häggblom Max M. , Dong Yiran , Pu Zilun , Li Baoqin , Wang Qi , Xiao Tangfu , Li Fangbai
Published: October 2018

The rhizosphere is the “hub” for plant-microbe interactions and an active region for exchange of nutrients and energy between soil and plants. In arable soils contaminated by mining activities, the rhizosphere may be an important barrier resisting metal uptake. Therefore, the responses of the rhizosphere microbiota to metal contamination involve important biogeochemical processes, which can affect metal bioavailability and thus impact food safety. However, understanding these processes remains a challenge. The current study illustrates that metal-microbe interactions may be crop specific and some less-addressed metals, such as V and Cr, may play important roles in shaping bacterial communities. The current study provides new insights into metal-microbe interactions and contributes to future implementation and monitoring efforts in contaminated arable soils.
Response of the Anaerobic Methanotroph “
Candidatus
Methanoperedens nitroreducens” to Oxygen Stress
Authors: Guerrero-Cruz Simon , Cremers Geert , van Alen Theo A. , Op den Camp Huub J. M. , Jetten Mike S. M. , Rasigraf Olivia , Vaksmaa Annika
Published: October 2018

“
Candidatus
Methanoperedens nitroreducens” is an anaerobic archaeon which couples the reduction of nitrate to the oxidation of methane. This microorganism is present in a wide range of aquatic environments and man-made ecosystems, such as paddy fields and wastewater treatment systems. In such environments, these archaea may experience regular oxygen exposure. However, “
Ca
. Methanoperedens nitroreducens” is able to thrive under such conditions and could be applied for the simultaneous removal of dissolved methane and nitrogenous pollutants in oxygen-limited systems. To understand what machinery “
Ca
. Methanoperedens nitroreducens” possesses to counteract the oxidative stress and survive, we characterized the response to oxygen exposure using a multi-omics approach.
Rethinking the Coral Microbiome: Simplicity Exists within a Diverse Microbial Biosphere
Authors: Hernandez-Agreda Alejandra , Leggat William , Bongaerts Pim , Herrera César , Ainsworth Tracy D.
Published: October 2018

We propose that the coral holobiont should be conceptualized as a diverse transient microbial community that is responsive to the surrounding environment and encompasses a simple, redundant, resident microbiome and a small conserved core microbiome. Most importantly, we show that the coral microbiome is comparable to the microbiomes of other organisms studied thus far. Accurately characterizing the coral-microbe interactions provides an important baseline from which the functional roles and the functional niches within which microbes reside can be deciphered.
Arylvinylpiperazine Amides, a New Class of Potent Inhibitors Targeting QcrB of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Foo Caroline S. , Lupien Andréanne , Kienle Maryline , Vocat Anthony , Benjak Andrej , Sommer Raphael , Lamprecht Dirk A. , Steyn Adrie J. C. , Pethe Kevin , Piton Jérémie , Altmann Karl-Heinz , Cole Stewart T.
Published: October 2018

New drugs against
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
are urgently needed to deal with the current global TB pandemic. We report here on the discovery of a series of arylvinylpiperazine amides (AX-35 to AX-39) that represent a promising new family of compounds with potent
in vitro
and
in vivo
activities against
M. tuberculosis
. AX compounds target the QcrB subunit of the cytochrome
bc
1
terminal oxidase with a different mode of interaction compared to those of known QcrB inhibitors. This study provides the first multifaceted validation of QcrB inhibition by recombineering-mediated allelic exchange, gene expression profiling, and bioenergetic flux studies. It also provides further evidence for the compensatory role of cytochrome
bd
oxidase upon QcrB inhibition. In the absence of cytochrome
bd
oxidase, AX compounds are bactericidal, an encouraging property for future antimycobacterial drug development.
Woman with lower back pain, SIADH and a twist of Lyme
Authors: Salaami Omid , Manning Dennis Michael
Published: October 2018

A 62-year-old woman was admitted with a 3-week history of atraumatic bilateral lower back pain, progressive ascending flaccid paralysis, hyponatraemia and constipation. She was otherwise in good health with only a recent diagnosis of acute gastroenteritis that preceded her presenting symptoms. Her initial laboratory evaluation was consistent with Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH) but was otherwise unremarkable. MRI of the spine revealed bilateral diffuse nerve root enhancement from at least C6 to the conus level, suggesting an inflammatory process. Lumbar puncture demonstrated high protein (629 mg/dL) with marked pleocytosis (363 cells/mcL) incompatible with albuminocytological dissociation typically seen in Guillain-Barre syndrome. A thorough diagnostic evaluation was undertaken to explore potential infectious, malignant and autoimmune conditions. Lyme disease serology (ELISA and Western Blot, IgM and IgG) was positive leading to a final diagnosis of lymphocytic meningoradiculitis or Bannwarth syndrome.
Novel gene targets for miRNA146a and miRNA155 in anterior uveitis
Authors: O'Rourke Micheal , Trenkmann Michelle , Connolly Mary , Fearon Ursula , Murphy Conor C
Published: October 2018

Background/Aims

Anterior uveitis (AU) is the most common form of intraocular inflammation. MicroRNAs (miRNA) are small, non-coding RNAs functioning as post-transcriptional repressors of gene expression. Knowledge of miRNAs can implicate specific genes and pathogenic signalling pathways in disease. This study examines miRNA expression, function and target genes in AU pathogenesis.

Methods

AU and healthy control (HC) peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were initially screened for expression of five miRNAs by real-time PCR. Regulation of the aberrantly expressed miRNAs by TLR1/2, TLR3, TLR4, IL1β and TNFα was quantified by real-time PCR and paired cytokine outputs measured by ELISA. Functional effects of miRNA overexpression using transfected THP1 cells examined IL6, IL8, IL10 and IL1β cytokine outputs by ELISA. Target genes were identified using TargetScan online computational algorithm and relevant targets verified by cloning of the 3′UTR and luciferase reporter gene assays.

Results

Increased expression of miRNA146a (p<0.01), miRNA155 (p<0.05) and miRNA125a5p (p<0.01) was demonstrated in AU PBMC compared with HC. miRNA155 was increased following TLR1/2 (p<0.05) and TLR4 (p<0.05) stimulation and miRNA146a increased in response to IL1β (p<0.05). In a proinflammatory environment, miRNA155 overexpression in THP1 cells yielded increased cytokine output whereas miRNA146a overexpression showed decreased cytokine output. CD80, PRKCE and VASN were confirmed as novel targets for miRNA146a and SMAD2, TYRP1 and FBXO22 for miRNA155.

Conclusion

This study identifies overexpression of proinflammatory miRNA155, regulatory miRNA146a and miRNA125a-5p in AU. CD80, PRKCE and VASN are novel miRNA146a targets and SMAD2, TYRP1 and FBXO22 are novel targets for miRNA155.
Can rapid approaches to qualitative analysis deliver timely, valid findings to clinical leaders? A mixed methods study comparing rapid and thematic analysis
Authors: Taylor Beck , Henshall Catherine , Kenyon Sara , Litchfield Ian , Greenfield Sheila
Published: October 2018

Objectives

This study compares rapid and traditional analyses of a UK health service evaluation dataset to explore differences in researcher time and consistency of outputs.

Design

Mixed methods study, quantitatively and qualitatively comparing qualitative methods.

Setting

Data from a home birth service evaluation study in a hospital in the English National Health Service, which took place between October and December 2014. Two research teams independently analysed focus group and interview transcript data: one team used a thematic analysis approach using the framework method, and the second used rapid analysis.

Participants

Home birth midwives (6), midwifery support workers (4), commissioners (4), managers (6), and community midwives (12) and a patient representative (1) participated in the original study.

Primary outcome measures

Time taken to complete analysis in person hours; analysis findings and recommendations matched, partially matched or not matched across the two teams.

Results

Rapid analysis data management took less time than thematic analysis (43 hours vs 116.5 hours). Rapid analysis took 100 hours, and thematic analysis took 126.5 hours in total, with interpretation and write up taking much longer in the rapid analysis (52 hours vs 8 hours). Rapid analysis findings overlapped with 79% of thematic analysis findings, and thematic analysis overlapped with 63% of the rapid analysis findings. Rapid analysis recommendations overlapped with 55% of those from the thematic analysis, and thematic analysis overlapped with 59% of the rapid analysis recommendations.

Conclusions

Rapid analysis delivered a modest time saving. Excessive time to interpret data in rapid analysis in this study may be due to differences between research teams. There was overlap in outputs between approaches, more in findings than recommendations. Rapid analysis may have the potential to deliver valid, timely findings while taking less time. We recommend further comparisons using additional data sets with more similar research teams.
Protocol for a scoping review on nursing care and the autonomy of disabled persons
Authors: Schoeller Soraia Dornelles , Lima Daniella Karine Souza , Martins Maria Manuela , Ramos Flávia Regina Souza , Zuchetto Milena Amorim , Bampi Luciana Neves da Silva , Roos Cristine Moraes , Tholl Adriana Dutra , Tonnera Liliam Cristiana Julio , Machado Wiliam Cesar Alves , Vargas Caroline Porcelis
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Considering the limitations that disabled persons experience, our understanding of caring for these people has evolved over time worldwide. Because nursing care is dependent on the choices made by patients, nurses can play an emancipatory role by empowering patients with disabilities to become the primary agent in their rehabilitation. Objective was to conduct a range analysis protocol proposing the mapping of conceptual elements for a nursing care model based on the autonomy of disabled persons.

Methods and analysis

A protocol was developed in corporating insights from recent innovations and applying the scope review method of Arksey and O’Malley as a reference using their scoping review methodology as a guide. For the construction of research guiding question, the patient, intervention, comparison and outcomes strategy was adapted. Considerable research in online databases (14) from 2000 to 2018 will be integrated by bibliographical research. Proceed a consult in the Annals of the Brazilian Congress of Nursing, Brazilian Nursing Association and Portuguese Rehabilitation Nursing Association, as well as professional Portuguese and Brazilian nursing legislation. The entire reference list of the covered studies searched manually to detect considerable additional studies. In addition to these searches, stakeholders, including nurse experts in the rehabilitation field and disabled persons, will be requested and included.

Ethics and dissemination

This study does not require ethical approval because it is a review and collection of data on publicly available materials. The results of this research will be published in a relevant journal on the subject of rehabilitation and presented at international scientific events in the area of rehabilitation nursing. Thus, the elaboration of this protocol further maps the gaps and strengthens the concepts capable of presenting strong evidence which assists and supports safer, smarter and more objective care for those living with permanent daily care obligations.
LDL-C:HDL-C ratio and common carotid plaque in Xinjiang Uygur obese adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhao Qiang , Liu Fen , Wang Ying-Hong , Lai Hong-Mei , Zhao Qian , Luo Jun-Yi , Ma Yi-Tong , Li Xiao-Mei , Yang Yi-Ning
Published: October 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between low-density lipoprotein cholesterol:high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C:HDL-C) ratio and common carotid atherosclerotic plaque (CCAP) among obese adults of Uygur community in Xinjiang, China.

Design

A hospital-based cross-sectional study.

Setting

First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University.

Participants

A total of 1449 obese adults of Uygur population who were free of coronary artery disease were included in our study from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2016.

Methodology

Lipid profiles, other routine laboratory parameters and intima-media thickness of the common carotid artery were measured in all participants. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between LDL-C:HDL-C ratio and CCAP.

Results

Four hundred and fifteen (28.64%) participants had CCAP. Participants with CCAP had significantly higher LDL-C:HDL-C ratio compared with those without CCAP (3.21 [2.50, 3.88] vs 2.33 [1.95, 2.97], p<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed high LDL-C:HDL-C ratio as independent predictor of CCAP after adjusting for conventional cardiovascular risk factors. The top LDL-C:HDL-C ratio quartile (≥3.25) had an OR of 9.355 (95% CI 6.181 to 14.157) compared with the bottom quartile (<2.07) of LDL-C:HDL-C ratio (p<0.001) after adjustment for age, body mass index, smoking, diabetes mellitus and serum level of total cholesterol.

Conclusion

CCAP is highly prevalent in Uygur obese adults. A high LDL-C:HDL-C ratio is an independent predictor of CCAP. It may help identify obese individuals who are at high risk of CCAP and who may benefit from intensive LDL-lowering therapy.
Efficacy of photobiomodulation on oral lichen planus: a protocol study for a double-blind, randomised controlled clinical trial
Authors: Ferri Elza Padilha , Gallo Camila de Barros , Abboud Clery Saad , Yanaguizawa Wellington Hideaki , Horliana Anna Carolina Ratto Tempestini , Silva Daniela de Fatima Teixeira da , Pavani Christiane , Bussadori Sandra Kalil , Nunes Fabio Daumas , Mesquita-Ferrari Raquel Agnelli , Fernandes Kristianne Porta Santos , Rodrigues Maria Fernanda Setúbal Destro
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is an idiopathic chronic mucocutaneous disease with a wide range of clinical manifestations, including white reticular patches, erosive/ulcerative and atrophic lesions, both associated with intense symptomatology. Topical corticosteroids are commonly used as standard therapy. However, patients frequently present relapses after the discontinuation of treatment as well as developing resistance to corticosteroid therapy. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been shown to be a potential therapeutic tool to treat inflammatory disorders, including OLP. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of PBM (660 nm) with corticosteroid therapy with clobetasol propionate 0.05% for the treatment of OLP.

Methods and analysis

Forty-four patients with symptomatic and histopathological diagnosis of OLP will be randomised into two experimental groups in a double-blind manner: control group (n=22): clobetasol propionate 0.05%+placebo PBM, and experimental group (n=22): PBM (λ=660 nm, power 100 mW, radiant exposure: 177 J/cm2and 0.5J per point)+placebo gel. Laser will be applied 2×/week for 1 month and clobetasol propionate three times a day for 30 days and the same for placebo treatments. The primary variable (pain) and the secondary variables (clinical score, evaluation of functional scores, clinical resolution, OLP recurrence, quality of life and anxiety and depression) will be evaluated at the baseline, once a week during treatment (depending on the variables) and after 30 days and 60 days of follow-up. Pain will be evaluated using visual analogue scale and clinical characteristics will be scored using the Thongprasom Index. The quality of life and anxiety and depression will be evaluated by Oral Health Impact Profile-14 questionnaire and by Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale for anxiety scale, respectively. The serum and salivary levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, IL-1β, INF-γ and tumour necrosis factor-α will be evaluated by ELISA at baseline and at the end of treatment.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol was approved (#2.375.410) by the Nove de Julho University (UNINOVE) Research Ethics Committee. The data gathered using this protocol will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

NCT03320460.
Cognitive decline in Parkinson’s disease: the impact of the motor phenotype on cognition
Authors: Wojtala Jennifer , Heber Ines Ann , Neuser Petra , Heller Julia , Kalbe Elke , Rehberg Sarah P , Storch Alexander , Linse Katharina , Schneider Christine , Gräber Susanne , Berg Daniela , Dams Judith , Balzer-Geldsetzer Monika , Hilker-Roggendorf Rüdiger , Oberschmidt Carola , Baudrexel Simon , Witt Karsten , Schmidt Nele , Deuschl Günther , Mollenhauer Brit , Trenkwalder Claudia , Liepelt-Scarfone Inga , Spottke Annika , Roeske Sandra , Wüllner Ullrich , Wittchen Hans-Ulrich , Riedel Oliver , Dodel Richard , Schulz Jörg B , Reetz Kathrin
Published: October 2018

Objectives

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder and is further associated with progressive cognitive decline. In respect to motor phenotype, there is some evidence that akinetic-rigid PD is associated with a faster rate of cognitive decline in general and a greater risk of developing dementia.

The objective of this study was to examine cognitive profiles among patients with PD by motor phenotypes and its relation to cognitive function.

Methods

Demographic, clinical and neuropsychological cross-sectional baseline data of the DEMPARK/LANDSCAPE study, a multicentre longitudinal cohort study of 538 patients with PD were analysed, stratified by motor phenotype and cognitive syndrome. Analyses were performed for all patients and for each diagnostic group separately, controlling for age, gender, education and disease duration.

Results

Compared with the tremor-dominant phenotype, akinetic-rigid patients performed worse in executive functions such as working memory (Wechsler Memory Scale-Revised backward; p=0.012), formal-lexical word fluency (p=0.043), card sorting (p=0.006), attention (Trail Making Test version A; p=0.024) and visuospatial abilities (Leistungsprüfungssystem test 9; p=0.006). Akinetic-rigid neuropsychological test scores for the executive and attentive domain correlated negatively with non-tremor motor scores. Covariate-adjusted binary logistic regression analyses showed significant odds for PD-mild cognitive impairment for not-determined as compared with tremor-dominant (OR=3.198) and akinetic-rigid PD (OR=2.059). The odds for PD-dementia were significant for akinetic-rigid as compared with tremor-dominant phenotype (OR=8.314).

Conclusion

The three motor phenotypes of PD differ in cognitive performance, showing that cognitive deficits seem to be less severe in tremor-dominant PD. While these data are cross-sectional, longitudinal data are needed to shed more light on these differential findings.
Republished: Revisiting the therapeutic time window dogma: successful thrombectomy 6 days after stroke onset
Authors: Aguilar-Salinas Pedro , Santos Roberta , Granja Manuel F , Effendi Sabih , Sauvageau Eric , Hanel Ricardo , Aghaebrahim Amin
Published: October 2018

Stroke is the leading cause of serious long-term disability in the USA. Recent clinical trials, DAWN and DEFUSE 3, have expanded the endovascular therapeutic time window which has been adopted by the American Heart Association stroke guideline. However, there continues to be a dilemma as to what is the best approach for patients who present beyond the time window set by these trials and the current guideline. The interval from arterial occlusion to completion of brain tissue infarction varies from patient to patient and depends on the actual time and also a physiological clock or a tissue time window. Offering endovascular treatment based solely on a rigid time criterion excludes patients who may have a clinical benefit because of potentially salvageable tissue. We present a case of a patient who underwent successful stroke thrombectomy 6 days after stroke onset.