bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
University Students' Views on the Education and Teaching of Civilization History: Bayburt University Education Faculty Sample
Authors: Elban Mehmet
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this research is to evaluate the teaching and educational activities in the civilization history lesson. The model of the research is the exploratory sequential design from mixed research patterns. The appropriate sampling method was used in the research. The qualitative data of the research were collected from 26 students through a semi-structured interview form. Content analysis was used in the analysis of qualitative data. The quantitative data of the research were obtained by a questionnaire developed as an analysis of the qualitative data of the research. 95 students participated in the questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used in the analysis of quantitative data In the research, it was understood that the positive attitudes towards the civilization history lesson of the students in the primary school teaching department were caused by curiosity and interest and their negative attitudes were caused by making the students passive and lesson subjects. The civilization history study methods of students are source books, lesson teacher, note-taking, and to work by typing. Reasons of topics which are students easily learn are interest and curiosity, national history and previous information. The reason for the difficulty in learning on some subjects is that there are too many subjects. Interest and curiosity with teaching method and technique are common causes of the success and failure of the students in the civilization history lesson. In addition, students attach great importance to the use of interactive teaching methods and techniques and visual teaching materials in civilization history lesson.
The Significance of Group Supervision to Yogo Teachers in Japan
Authors: Iwasaki Kazuko , Watanabe Toshiyuki , Tamura Takeshi
Published: September 2017

This study aimed to evaluate the significance of group supervision to Yogo teachers in Japan, who often deal with work-related problems in isolation. Like school nurses in the United States, the role of the Yogo teacher is to oversee students’ health education and management. In this study, eight Yogo teachers, each with a minimum of six years’ experience, attended six supervised group sessions in 2016. During each session, one participant presented a case, and all participants then engaged in a general exchange of opinions about the case. Following the six sessions, semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participants, and the interview data were analyzed using M-GTA (modified grounded theory approach). The results generated 14 concepts and six categories, schematizing the Yogo teachers’ change of consciousness in relation to each category. The Yogo teachers evidenced needs in the categories of “Emotional Support,” “Awareness,” “Systemic Thinking,” “Collaboration,” “Motivation Improvement,” and “Training Location.” Ultimately, the study demonstrated that supervision by family therapists improved education by enhancing Yogo teachers’ consultation abilities and systemic thinking. Yogo teachers’ participation in the group supervision resulted in the following change in consciousness: their awareness was deepened by receiving emotional support, by training with the intent to learn, and by considering the significance of collaboration. Overall, teachers experienced an increase in self-motivation. The process for “Improvement of consultation ability” also became clear. Thus, group supervision by psychiatrists and/or family therapists has a positive impact on the overall motivation and work efficacy of Yogo teachers in Japan.
Leukoencephalopathy‐causing CLCN2 mutations are associated with impaired Cl− channel function and trafficking
Authors: Gaitán‐Peñas Héctor , Apaja Pirjo M , Arnedo Tanit , Castellanos Aida , Elorza‐Vidal Xabier , Soto David , Gasull Xavier , Lukacs Gergely L , Estévez Raúl
Published: September 2017

Key points

Characterisation of most mutations found in CLCN2 in patients with CC2L leukodystrophy show that they cause a reduction in function of the chloride channel ClC‐2.

GlialCAM, a regulatory subunit of ClC‐2 in glial cells and involved in the leukodystrophy megalencephalic leukoencephalopathy with subcortical cysts (MLC), increases the activity of a ClC‐2 mutant by affecting ClC‐2 gating and by stabilising the mutant at the plasma membrane.

The stabilisation of ClC‐2 at the plasma membrane by GlialCAM depends on its localisation at cell–cell junctions.

The membrane protein MLC1, which is defective in MLC, also contributes to the stabilisation of ClC‐2 at the plasma membrane, providing further support for the view that GlialCAM, MLC1 and ClC‐2 form a protein complex in glial cells.

Mutations in CLCN2 have been recently identified in patients suffering from a type of leukoencephalopathy involving intramyelinic oedema. Here, we characterised most of these mutations that reduce the function of the chloride channel ClC‐2 and impair its plasma membrane (PM) expression. Detailed biochemical and electrophysiological analyses of the Ala500Val mutation revealed that defective gating and increased cellular and PM turnover contributed to defective A500V‐ClC‐2 functional expression. Co‐expression of the adhesion molecule GlialCAM, which forms a tertiary complex with ClC‐2 and megalencephalic leukoencephalopathy with subcortical cysts 1 (MLC1), rescued the functional expression of the mutant by modifying its gating properties. GlialCAM also restored the PM levels of the channel by impeding its turnover at the PM. This rescue required ClC‐2 localisation to cell–cell junctions, since a GlialCAM mutant with compromised junctional localisation failed to rescue the impaired stability of mutant ClC‐2 at the PM. Wild‐type, but not mutant, ClC‐2 was also stabilised by MLC1 overexpression. We suggest that leukodystrophy‐causing CLCN2 mutations reduce the functional expression of ClC‐2, which is partly counteracted by GlialCAM/MLC1‐mediated increase in the gating and stability of the channel.
Morphometric relationships and size at sexual maturity of the deep-sea Caribbean lobster Metanephrops binghami (Decapoda: Nephropidae) in the Colombian Caribbean
Authors: Cusba José , Páramo Jorge
Published: September 2017

This paper describes the morphometric relationships and size at sexual maturity of deep-sea Caribbean lobster. Data were obtained in the Colombian Caribbean in four trawling surveys in November and December 2009 between 200 and 550 m depth. 709 individuals with sizes between 53.65 and 191.00 mm (TL) (mean 121.17 ± 27.13 mm) were measured. M. binghami had a positive allometric growth. Lobsters of the family Nephropidae have a worldwide distribution and economic importance. High levels of biomass of Metanephrops binghami have been reported in the Colombian Caribbean and this species could become a potential new resource for the Western Atlantic fishery. However, prior to the development of a new fishery, more biological research is needed to understand the life cycle of this species. Aspects such as growth, spawning, recruitment, mortality, nursery areas and associated biodiversity should be carefully studied.
Ex vivo model for studying polymicrobial biofilm formation in root canals
Authors: Díez Ortega Hugo , Correa Toral Francisco , Delgado Hernández Leylin , Echavarría González Carolina , Serna Varona Fátima , Rodríguez Ciodaro Adriana
Published: September 2017

Endodontic disease has mainly a microbial origin. It is caused by biofilms capable of attaching and surviving in the root canal. Therefore, it is important to study the conditions in which those biofilms grow, develop and colonize the root canal system. However, few studies have used natural teeth as models, which would take into account the root canal anatomical complexity and simulate the clinical reality. In this study, we used human premolar root canals to standardize in vitro biofilm optimal formation conditions for microorganisms such as Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. 128 lower premolars underwent canal preparation using K-type files, and were treated with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite and EDTA. Samples were inoculated with microorganisms and incubated for 15, 30, 45, and 60 days under anaerobiosis (CO2 atmosphere) and aerobiosis. Microorganism presence was confirmed by Gram staining, cell culture, and electron microscopy. Exopolysaccharide matrix and microorganism aggregation were observed following 15 days of incubation. Bacterial growth towards the apical third of the root canal and biofilm maturation was detected after 30 days. CO2 atmosphere favored microbial growth the most. In vitro biofilm maturation was confirmed after 30 days of incubation under a CO2 atmosphere for both bacteria and yeast.
NiMo-sulfide supported on activated carbon to produce renewable diesel
Authors: Tapia Juan , Acelas Nancy Y , López Diana , Moreno Andrés
Published: September 2017

Due to their weak polarity and large surface area, activated carbon supports have the potential to enhance the dispersion of metal-sulfides. It is expected that the absence of a strong metal-support interaction can result in the formation of a very active and stable Ni-Mo-S phase. In this study, catalysts with different amounts of nickel and molybdenum supported on a commercial activated carbon were prepared by a co-impregnation method and characterized by BET, XRF, and SEM techniques. The catalytic activity for hydroprocessing of Jatropha oil was evaluated in a batch reactor, and the composition of the liquid and gaseous products were determined. Results showed that gaseous products are mainly composed of high amounts of propane and small amounts of other light hydrocarbons (C1 to C5). Liquid hydrocarbon products consisted of a mixture containing mainly n-paraffins of C15-C18 and some oxygenated compounds. The catalysts with a mass fraction
of 3 % Ni, 15 % Mo (Ni3Mo15/AC) presented the highest selectivity toward C17-C18 hydrocarbons, with a product distribution similar to a commercial
alumina-supported Ni-Mo-S catalyst.
Evaluation and Life Extension of Asphalt Pavements Using Rejuvenators and Noncollinear Ultrasonic Wave Mixing: A Review
Authors: McGovern Megan E. , Buttlar William , Reis Henrique
Published: September 2017

Except for the relatively small zones within pavements that are subjected to loadings, the primary challenge in asphalt concrete (AC) pavement design and maintenance is to prevent and/or control environmentally induced distresses. Distresses, including block and thermal cracking, and possibly raveling of construction joints, tend to accelerate with time; as a result, it is critical to evaluate the state of crack resistance in asphalt pavement surfaces before and after maintenance treatments. A review of the use of noncollinear wave mixing to evaluate oxidative aging of AC pavements, and the used of rejuvenators in oxidized pavements toward extension of pavement life, is presented. The approach requires no core extraction. Results show that the noncollinear wave mixing can evaluate the state of oxidative aging of AC pavements. Results also indicate that the use of rejuvenators is a successful strategy of pavement maintenance and sustainability.
Local Interaction Simulation Approach for Efficient Modeling of Linear and Nonlinear Ultrasonic Guided Wave Active Sensing of Complex Structures
Authors: Shen Yanfeng , Cesnik Carlos E. S.
Published: September 2017

This paper presents the local interaction simulation approach (LISA) for efficient modeling of linear and nonlinear ultrasonic guided wave active sensing of complex structures. Three major modeling challenges are considered: material anisotropy with damping effects, nonlinear interactions between guided waves and structural damage, as well as geometric complexity of waveguides. To demonstrate LISA's prowess in addressing such challenges, carefully designed numerical case studies are presented. First, guided wave propagation and attenuation in carbon fiber composite panels are simulated. The numerical results are compared with experimental measurements obtained from scanning laser Doppler vibrometry (SLDV) to illustrate LISA's capability in modeling damped wave propagation in anisotropic medium. Second, nonlinear interactions between guided waves and structural damage are modeled by integrating contact dynamics into the LISA formulations. Comparison with commercial finite element software reveals that LISA can accurately simulate nonlinear ultrasonics but with much higher efficiency. Finally, guided wave propagation in geometrically complex waveguides is studied. The numerical example of multimodal guided wave propagation in a rail track structure with a fatigue crack is presented, demonstrating LISA's versatility to model complex waveguides and arbitrary damage profiles. This article serves as a comprehensive, systematic showcase of LISA's superb capability for efficient modeling of transient dynamic guided wave phenomena in structural health monitoring (SHM).
Specific Entropy Generation in a Gas Turbine Power Cycle
Authors: Haseli Y.
Published: September 2017

Numerous studies have shown that the minimization of entropy generation does not always lead to an optimum performance in energy conversion systems. The equivalence between minimum entropy generation and maximum power output or maximum thermal efficiency in an irreversible power cycle occurs subject to certain design constraints. This article introduces specific entropy generation defined as the rate of total entropy generated due to the operation of a power cycle per unit flowrate of fuel. Through a detailed thermodynamic modeling of a gas turbine cycle, it is shown that the specific entropy generation correlates unconditionally with the thermal efficiency of the cycle. A design at maximum thermal efficiency is found to be identical to that at minimum specific entropy generation. The results are presented for five different fuels including methane, hydrogen, propane, methanol, and ethanol. Under identical operating conditions, the thermal efficiency is approximately the same for all five fuels. However, a power cycle that burns a fuel with a higher heating value produces a higher specific entropy generation. An emphasis is placed to distinguish between the specific entropy generation (with the unit of J/K mol fuel) and the entropy generation rate (W/K). A reduction in entropy generation rate does not necessarily lead to an increase in thermal efficiency.
Thermal Behavior of a Building Provided With Phase-Change Materials on the Roof and Exposed to Solar Radiation
Authors: Mourid Amina , El Alami Mustapha
Published: September 2017

This paper evaluates the effectiveness of phase change materials (PCMs) for the improvement of summer thermal comfort in lightweight buildings. Experiments have been carried out using PCM in the form of DuPont Energain wallboards in combination with a roof. Two factors influencing the effectiveness of PCM (thickness and location of PCM layer) have been investigated. An experimental study was carried out using two identical test cavities submitted to Casablanca weather. Thermal performance such as the roof surface temperatures and heat flux densities, through the envelope, have been studied. The results indicated that, compared with reference room (without PCM), the thermal storage allows solar radiation to be stored and released up to 6–7 h after solar irradiation; this has effects on both the reduction of daily temperature swings (up to 2 °C) and heat flux (more than 88%). It has been proved that the PCM with a thickness of 10.52 mm on the outer face of the roof has good thermal insulation effect and energy efficiency potential.
Human-induced changes in the distribution of rainfall
Authors: Putnam Aaron E. , Broecker Wallace S.
Published: September 2017

As the planet warms, differential heating between the hemispheres will affect the global distribution of rainfall.
Light penetration structures the deep acoustic scattering layers in the global ocean
Authors: Aksnes Dag L. , Røstad Anders , Kaartvedt Stein , Martinez Udane , Duarte Carlos M. , Irigoien Xabier
Published: September 2017

The depth distribution of a major marine biomass component is determined by variation in water clarity.
Van der Waals engineering of ferromagnetic semiconductor heterostructures for spin and valleytronics
Authors: Zhong Ding , Seyler Kyle L. , Linpeng Xiayu , Cheng Ran , Sivadas Nikhil , Huang Bevin , Schmidgall Emma , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , McGuire Michael A. , Yao Wang , Xiao Di , Fu Kai-Mei C. , Xu Xiaodong
Published: September 2017

A van der Waals heterostructure of monolayer WSe
2
and ferromagnetic CrI
3
enables exceptional control of valley pseudospin.
Ultrastretchable, transparent triboelectric nanogenerator as electronic skin for biomechanical energy harvesting and tactile sensing
Authors: Pu Xiong , Liu Mengmeng , Chen Xiangyu , Sun Jiangman , Du Chunhua , Zhang Yang , Zhai Junyi , Hu Weiguo , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: September 2017

Stretchable, transparent nanogenerator enabled by ionic hydrogel converts motion energy into electricity and senses touch pressure.
Bot-hunters eye mischief in German election
Authors: Kupferschmidt Kai
Published: September 2017

Fake social media profiles are proliferating, but their potency is unclear.
Papua New Guinea's genetic diversity withstood farming
Authors: Gibbons Ann
Published: September 2017

Island somehow resisted homogenization seen elsewhere.
DNA sequence–directed shape change of photopatterned hydrogels via high-degree swelling
Authors: Cangialosi Angelo , Yoon ChangKyu , Liu Jiayu , Huang Qi , Guo Jingkai , Nguyen Thao D. , Gracias David H. , Schulman Rebecca
Published: September 2017

DNA molecules direct the swelling of cross-linked hydrogels with shape changes in response to different biomolecular signals.
Comment on “The complex effects of ocean acidification on the prominent N
2
-fixing cyanobacterium
Trichodesmium
”
Authors: Hutchins David A. , Fu Feixue , Walworth Nathan G. , Lee Michael D. , Saito Mak A. , Webb Eric A.
Published: September 2017

Hong
et al
. (Reports, 5 May 2017, p. 527) suggested that previous studies of the biogeochemically significant marine cyanobacterium
Trichodesmium
showing increased growth and nitrogen fixation at projected future high CO
2
levels suffered from ammonia or copper toxicity. They reported that these rates instead decrease at high CO
2
when contamination is alleviated. We present and discuss results of multiple published studies refuting this toxicity hypothesis.
Crystal-clear memories of a bacterium
Authors: Globus Rea , Qimron Udi
Published: September 2017

Structures of the CRISPR memorization complex in bacteria reveal new mechanistic details
Intercellular transmission of the unfolded protein response promotes survival and drug resistance in cancer cells
Authors: Rodvold Jeffrey J. , Chiu Kevin T. , Hiramatsu Nobuhiko , Nussbacher Julia K. , Galimberti Valentina , Mahadevan Navin R. , Willert Karl , Lin Jonathan H. , Zanetti Maurizio
Published: September 2017

Prostate cancer cells release an ER stress response signal that enhances tumor growth and drug resistance.
IRE1α promotes viral infection by conferring resistance to apoptosis
Authors: Fink Susan L. , Jayewickreme Teshika R. , Molony Ryan D. , Iwawaki Takao , Landis Charles S. , Lindenbach Brett D. , Iwasaki Akiko
Published: September 2017

A prosurvival signaling pathway in cells infected with hepatitis C virus overrides interferon responses to impair antiviral resistance.
Radiation inhibits salivary gland function by promoting STIM1 cleavage by caspase-3 and loss of SOCE through a TRPM2-dependent pathway
Authors: Liu Xibao , Gong Baijuan , de Souza Lorena Brito , Ong Hwei Ling , Subedi Krishna P. , Cheng Kwong Tai , Swaim William , Zheng Changyu , Mori Yasuo , Ambudkar Indu S.
Published: September 2017

Radiation for head and neck cancers causes dry mouth by suppressing store-operated Ca
2+
entry in salivary glands.
Papers of note in
Science Translational Medicine
9
(391)
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: September 2017

This week’s articles describe a way in which brain metastases can trigger drug resistance in primary breast tumors and a potential therapy for ALS.
Papers of note in
Science
356
(6340)
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: September 2017

This week’s articles highlight new research that identifies a microRNA decay pathway that promotes cell cycle progression; an interactive atlas of the subcellular localization of thousands of human proteins, which may help refine signaling networks; and a review of symbiotic plant-microbe interactions.
An adenosine receptor for olfaction
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: September 2017

Extracellular processing of ATP in the fish olfactory epithelium produces adenosine that is perceived by olfactory neurons.
Molecular Tools for the Detection and Deduction of Azole Antifungal Drug Resistance Phenotypes in Aspergillus Species
Authors: Dudakova Anna , Spiess Birgit , Tangwattanachuleeporn Marut , Sasse Christoph , Buchheidt Dieter , Weig Michael , Groß Uwe , Bader Oliver
Published: September 2017

The incidence of azole resistance in
Aspergillus
species has increased over the past years, most importantly for
Aspergillus fumigatus
. This is partially attributable to the global spread of only a few resistance alleles through the environment. Secondary resistance is a significant clinical concern, as invasive aspergillosis with drug-susceptible strains is already difficult to treat, and exclusion of azole-based antifungals from prophylaxis or first-line treatment of invasive aspergillosis in high-risk patients would dramatically limit drug choices, thus increasing mortality rates for immunocompromised patients. Management options for invasive aspergillosis caused by azole-resistant
A. fumigatus
strains were recently reevaluated by an international expert panel, which concluded that drug resistance testing of cultured isolates is highly indicated when antifungal therapy is intended. In geographical regions with a high environmental prevalence of azole-resistant strains, initial therapy should be guided by such analyses. More environmental and clinical screening studies are therefore needed to generate the local epidemiologic data if such measures are to be implemented on a sound basis. Here we propose a first workflow for evaluating isolates from screening studies, and we compile the MIC values correlating with individual amino acid substitutions in the products of
cyp51
genes for interpretation of DNA sequencing data, especially in the absence of cultured isolates.
Discrete Dynamical Modeling of Influenza Virus Infection Suggests Age-Dependent Differences in Immunity
Authors: Keef Ericka , Zhang Li Ang , Swigon David , Urbano Alisa , Ermentrout G. Bard , Matuszewski Michael , Toapanta Franklin R. , Ross Ted M. , Parker Robert S. , Clermont Gilles
Published: September 2017

Immunosenescence, an age-related decline in immune function, is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in the elderly. Older hosts exhibit a delayed onset of immunity and prolonged inflammation after an infection, leading to excess damage and a greater likelihood of death. Our study applies a rule-based model to infer which components of the immune response are most changed in an aged host. Two groups of BALB/c mice (aged 12 to 16 weeks and 72 to 76 weeks) were infected with 2 inocula: a survivable dose of 50 PFU and a lethal dose of 500 PFU. Data were measured at 10 points over 19 days in the sublethal case and at 6 points over 7 days in the lethal case, after which all mice had died. Data varied primarily in the onset of immunity, particularly the inflammatory response, which led to a 2-day delay in the clearance of the virus from older hosts in the sublethal cohort. We developed a Boolean model to describe the interactions between the virus and 21 immune components, including cells, chemokines, and cytokines, of innate and adaptive immunity. The model identifies distinct sets of rules for each age group by using Boolean operators to describe the complex series of interactions that activate and deactivate immune components. Our model accurately simulates the immune responses of mice of both ages and with both inocula included in the data (95% accurate for younger mice and 94% accurate for older mice) and shows distinct rule choices for the innate immunity arm of the model between younger and aging mice in response to influenza A virus infection.

IMPORTANCEInfluenza virus infection causes high morbidity and mortality rates every year, especially in the elderly. The elderly tend to have a delayed onset of many immune responses as well as prolonged inflammatory responses, leading to an overall weakened response to infection. Many of the details of immune mechanisms that change with age are currently not well understood. We present a rule-based model of the intrahost immune response to influenza virus infection. The model is fit to experimental data for young and old mice infected with influenza virus. We generated distinct sets of rules for each age group to capture the temporal differences seen in the immune responses of these mice. These rules describe a network of interactions leading to either clearance of the virus or death of the host, depending on the initial dosage of the virus. Our models clearly demonstrate differences in these two age groups, particularly in the innate immune responses.
Distinct Mechanism for the Formation of the Ribonucleoprotein Complex of Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus
Authors: Guo Yu , Liu Baocheng , Ding Zhenzhen , Li Guobang , Liu Meizi , Zhu Dantong , Sun Yuna , Dong Shishang , Lou Zhiyong
Published: September 2017

The
Tomato spotted wilt virus
(TSWV) belongs to the
Tospovirus
genus of the
Bunyaviridae
family and represents the sole plant-infecting group within bunyavirus. TSWV encodes a nucleocapsid protein (N) which encapsidates the RNA genome to form a ribonucleoprotein complex (RNP). In addition, the N has multiple roles during the infection of plant cells. Here, we report the crystal structure of the full-length TSWV N. The N features a body domain consisting of an N-lobe and a C-lobe. These lobes clamp a positively charged groove which may constitute the RNA binding site. Furthermore, the body domains are flanked by N- and C-terminal arms which mediate homotypic interactions to the neighboring subunits, resulting in a ring-shaped N trimer. Interestingly, the C terminus of one protomer forms an additional interaction with the protomer of an adjacent trimer in the crystal, which may constitute a higher-order oligomerization contact. In this way, this study provides insights into the structure and trimeric assembly of TSWV N, which help to explain previous functional findings, but also suggests distinct N interactions within a higher-order RNP.

IMPORTANCE
TSWV is one of the most devastating plant pathogens that cause severe diseases in numerous agronomic and ornamental crops worldwide. TSWV is also the prototypic member of the
Tospovirus
genus, which is the sole group of plant-infecting viruses in the bunyavirus family. This study determined the structure of full-length TSWV N in an oligomeric state. The structural observations explain previously identified biological properties of TSWV N. Most importantly, the additional homotypic interaction between the C terminus of one protomer with another protomer indicates that there is a distinct mechanism of RNP formation in the bunyavirus family, thereby enhancing the current knowledge of negative-sense single-stranded RNA virus-encoded N. TSWV N is the last remaining representative N with an unknown structure in the bunyavirus family. Combined with previous studies, the structure of TSWV N helps to build a complete picture of the bunyavirus-encoded N family and reveals a close evolutionary relationship between orthobunyavirus, phlebovirus, hantavirus, and tospovirus.
Polyamines and Their Role in Virus Infection
Authors: Mounce Bryan C. , Olsen Michelle E. , Vignuzzi Marco , Connor John H.
Published: September 2017

Polyamines are small, abundant, aliphatic molecules present in all mammalian cells. Within the context of the cell, they play a myriad of roles, from modulating nucleic acid conformation to promoting cellular proliferation and signaling. In addition, polyamines have emerged as important molecules in virus-host interactions. Many viruses have been shown to require polyamines for one or more aspects of their replication cycle, including DNA and RNA polymerization, nucleic acid packaging, and protein synthesis. Understanding the role of polyamines has become easier with the application of small-molecule inhibitors of polyamine synthesis and the use of interferon-induced regulators of polyamines. Here we review the diverse mechanisms in which viruses require polyamines and investigate blocking polyamine synthesis as a potential broad-spectrum antiviral approach.
Comparison of the Microbiota of Older Adults Living in Nursing Homes and the Community
Authors: Roghmann Mary-Claire , Lydecker Alison D. , Hittle Lauren , DeBoy Robert T. , Nowak Rebecca G. , Johnson J. Kristie , Mongodin Emmanuel F.
Published: September 2017

The nose, throat, and skin over the subclavian and femoral veins are the body sites which harbor the bacteria which most commonly cause health care-associated infection. We assessed the effect of nursing home residence on the microbiota of these body sites in older adults. We found that the microbiota composition of the different body sites was similar between nursing home and community participants, but we identified differences in relative abundance levels. We found remarkable similarities in the bacterial communities of different body sites in older adults who lived in nursing homes compared to those in the community among people who had not been on antibiotics for the past 3 months. We also found that the femoral skin microbiota had evidence of stool contamination in the nursing home residents, providing a rationale for improved skin hygiene. Taken together, it appears that the health care environment does not alter the microbiota to the extent that antibiotics do.
A Multicenter Study To Evaluate the Performance of High-Throughput Sequencing for Virus Detection
Authors: Khan Arifa S. , Ng Siemon H. S. , Vandeputte Olivier , Aljanahi Aisha , Deyati Avisek , Cassart Jean-Pol , Charlebois Robert L. , Taliaferro Lanyn P.
Published: September 2017

Recent high-throughput sequencing (HTS) investigations have resulted in unexpected discoveries of known and novel viruses in a variety of sample types, including research materials, clinical materials, and biological products. Therefore, HTS can be a powerful tool for supplementing current methods for demonstrating the absence of adventitious or unwanted viruses in biological products, particularly when using a new cell line. However, HTS is a complex technology with different platforms, which needs standardization for evaluation of biologics. This collaborative study was undertaken to investigate detection of different virus types using two different HTS platforms. The results of the independently performed studies demonstrated a similar sensitivity of virus detection, regardless of the different sample preparation and processing procedures and bioinformatic analyses done in the three laboratories. Comparable HTS detection of different virus types supports future development of reference virus materials for standardization and validation of different HTS platforms.
An evaluation of intracameral mydriasis for routine cataract surgery
Authors: Schulz Christopher B , Goverdhan Srini V , Humphry Roger C
Published: September 2017

Background

Intracameral Mydrane might facilitate a more streamlined cataract service and improve the patient experience. There is limited ‘real-world’ evidence of its use in a UK setting.

Methods

As part of a local evaluation of cataract surgery using intracameral Mydrane (group 2; n=60), data were collected on intraoperative pupil size and postoperative visual acuity (VA), as well as the rate of mechanical pupil dilation, intraoperative floppy iris syndrome (IFIS) and complications. Preoperative and theatre turnaround time was recorded and patients completed a validated measure of satisfaction postoperatively. Data were compared with a previous cohort subjected to the existing standard regime of preoperative topical mydriatics (group 1; n=60).

Results

Postoperative VA was comparable between groups (0.09±0.16 vs 0.08±0.15; p=0.59). Pupil size in group 2 was 7.0±1.0 mm prior to capsulorhexis and 6.5±0.29 mm after cortical aspiration, with a smaller pupil in patients on alpha-antagonists (4.7±1.1 mm; p=0.004) at this later time point. Comparing group 2 with group 1, preoperative waiting was less (87 vs 146 min; p<0.0001) and satisfaction was higher (76.0±11.2 vs 66.3±8.6; p<0.0001), although theatre turnaround time was longer (25 min vs 22 min).

Conclusion

Intracameral mydriasis was clinically effective in most patients undergoing cataract surgery and might be associated with an improved patient experience and a more streamlined preoperative flow. Mydrane represents a licensed alternative to the off-label use of other intracameral mydriatic agents, but was not judged to be a cost-effective intervention for routine use in this particular setting.
Circulating microRNAs as potential biomarkers to detect transformation of Barrett’s oesophagus to oesophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Matsuzaki Juntaro , Suzuki Hidekazu
Published: September 2017

Objective

Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are promising biomarkers for the early detection of cancers. This study aimed to address potential circulating miRNAs to monitor the progression from Barrett’s oesophagus (BO) to oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC).

Design

We comprehensively analysed tissue and serum miRNA expression profiles of BO mice model (L2-interleukin-1β (IL-1β) mice) using microarray analysis. To validate the data from mice, a published dataset of human plasma miRNAs, consisting of eight patients with OAC, eight with BO and six healthy controls, was used (GSE51410).

Results

We identified 20 upregulated miRNAs and 44 downregulated miRNAs both in tissues and in sera of 46-week-old mice compared with 28-week-old mice. Two of the 20 miRNAs (miR-128-3 p and miR-328-3 p) were upregulated, and five of the 44 miRNAs (miR-143-3 p, miR-144-3 p, miR-15a-5p, miR-1-3 p and miR-133b) were downregulated in plasma of patients with OAC compared with plasma of patients with BO. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that a prediction index calculated by the above-mentioned seven miRNAs could discriminate between patients with OAC and those without OAC with the area under the curve of 0.91, sensitivity of 1 and specificity of 0.75.

Conclusions

Levels of the seven circulating miRNAs may represent the tissue miRNA levels and could be promising non-invasive biomarkers to evaluate the carcinogenic process of BO.
Healing journey: a qualitative analysis of the healing experiences of Americans suffering from trauma and illness
Authors: Scott John Glenn , Warber Sara L , Dieppe Paul , Jones David , Stange Kurt C
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To elucidate pathways to healing for people having suffered injury to the integrity of their function as a human being.

Methods

A team of physician-analysts conducted thematic analyses of in-depth interviews of 23 patients who experienced healing, as identified by six primary care physicians purposefully selected as exemplary healers.

Results

People in the sample experienced healing journeys that spanned a spectrum from overcoming unspeakable trauma and then becoming healers themselves to everyday heroes functioning well despite ongoing serious health challenges.

The degree and quality of suffering experienced by each individual is framed by contextual factors that include personal characteristics, timing of their initial or ongoing wounding in the developmental life cycle and prior and current relationships.

In the healing journey, bridges from suffering are developed to healing resources/skills and connections to helpers outside themselves. These bridges often evolve in fits and starts and involve persistence and developing a sense of safety and trust.

From the iteration between suffering and developing resources and connections, a new state emerges that involves hope, self-acceptance and helping others. Over time, this leads to healing that includes a sense of integrity and flourishing in the pursuit of meaningful goals and purpose.

Conclusion

Moving from being wounded, through suffering to healing, is possible. It is facilitated by developing safe, trusting relationships and by positive reframing that moves through the weight of responsibility to the ability to respond.
Concordance of opinions between patients and physicians and their relationship with symptomatic control and future risk in patients with moderate–severe asthma
Authors: Crespo-Lessmann Astrid , Plaza Vicente , González-Barcala Francisco-Javier , Fernández-Sánchez Toni , Sastre Joaquín
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Differences between the opinions of patients and physicians on the impact of asthma are common. We hypothesised that patient–physician discordance may negatively affect asthma outcome.

Methods

A total of 2902 patients (61% women, mean age 47 years) with moderate–severe asthma and 231 physicians participated in a prospective study. At the baseline visit, data on demographics, clinical variables, degree of asthma control according to the Asthma Control Test (ACT), basic spirometry and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) were collected and an ad hoc questionnaire was completed that allowed the degree of concordance between doctors and patients to be assessed. A scheduled telephone call after 3 months was used to elicit the ACT score and the future risk of asthma. At the final visit at 6 months, the following data were recorded: ACT score, spirometry, HADS score and an ad hoc questionnaire to assess the agreement between the doctor and the patient. Changes in study variables according to patient–physician concordance or discordance were analysed.

Results

The rate of patient–physician discordance was 27.2%, with overestimation of disease impact by the physician in 12.3% and underestimation in 14.9%. Patient–physician opinion discordance, particularly in the case of physicians underestimating the impact of asthma, showed worse results with statistically significant differences in ACT score, a higher percentage of patients with poor asthma control and lower HADS scores. The need for hospital and emergency department admissions was also higher.

Conclusion

Patient–physician opinion discordance may be contributing to lower symptomatic control and increased future risk, with a higher impact when physicians underestimate the impact of asthma on their patients.
Mitral regurgitation in patients with severe aortic stenosis: diagnosis and management
Authors: Sannino Anna , Grayburn Paul A
Published: September 2017

Severe aortic stenosis (AS) and mitral regurgitation (MR) frequently coexist. Although some observational studies have reported that moderate or severe MR is associated with higher mortality, the optimal management of such patients is still unclear. Simultaneous replacement of both aortic and mitral valves is linked to significantly higher morbidity and mortality. Recent advances in minimally invasive surgical or transcatheter therapies for MR allow for staged procedures in which surgical or transcatheter aortic valve replacement (SAVR/TAVR) is done first and MR severity re-evaluated afterwards. Current evidence suggests MR severity improves in some patients after SAVR or TAVR, depending on several factors (MR aetiology, type of valve used for TAVR, presence/absence of atrial fibrillation, residual aortic regurgitation, etc). However, as of today, the absence of randomised clinical trials does not allow for evidence-based recommendations about whether or not MR should be addressed at the time of SAVR or TAVR. A careful patient evaluation and clinical judgement are recommended to distinguish patients who might benefit from a double valve intervention from those in which MR should be left alone. The aim of this review is to report and critique the available data on this subject in order to help guide the clinical decision making in this challenging subset of patients.
Quantitative MR spectroscopic imaging in metachromatic leukodystrophy: value for prognosis and treatment
Authors: van Rappard Diane F , Klauser Antoine , Steenweg Marjan E , Boelens Jaap Jan , Bugiani Marianna , van der Knaap Marjo S , Wolf Nicole I , Pouwels Petra J W
Published: September 2017

Objective

To determine whether proton magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging is useful in predicting clinical course of patients with metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD), an inherited white matter disorder treatable with haematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT).

Methods

21 patients with juvenile or adult MLD (12 HCT-treated) were compared with 16 controls in the same age range. Clinical outcome was determined as good, moderate or poor. Metabolites were quantified in white matter, and significance of metabolite concentrations at baseline for outcome prediction was assessed using logistic regression analysis. Evolution of metabolic changes was assessed for patients with follow-up examinations.

Results

In this retrospective study, 16 patients with baseline scans were included, 5 with good, 3 with moderate and 8 with poor outcome, and 16 controls. We observed significant group differences for all metabolite concentrations in white matter (p<0.001). Compared with controls, patients had decreased N-acetylaspartate and glutamate, and increased myo-inositol and lactate, most pronounced in patients with poor outcome (post hoc, all p<0.05). Logistic regression showed complete separation of data. Creatine could distinguish poor from moderate and good outcome, the sum of glutamate and glutamine could distinguish good from moderate and poor outcome, and N-acetylaspartate could distinguish all outcome groups. For 13 patients (8 with baseline scans), one or more follow-up examinations were evaluated, revealing stabilisation or even partial normalisation of metabolites in patients with moderate and good outcome, clearly visible in the ratio of choline/N-acetylaspartate.

Conclusion

In MLD, quantitative spectroscopic imaging at baseline is predictive for outcome and aids in determining eligibility for HCT.
MRI in sarcoglycanopathies: a large international cohort study
Authors: Tasca Giorgio , Monforte Mauro , Díaz-Manera Jordi , Brisca Giacomo , Semplicini Claudio , D’Amico Adele , Fattori Fabiana , Pichiecchio Anna , Berardinelli Angela , Maggi Lorenzo , Maccagnano Elio , Løkken Nicoline , Marini-Bettolo Chiara , Munell Francina , Sanchez Angel , Alshaikh Nahla , Voermans Nicol C , Dastgir Jahannaz , Vlodavets Dmitry , Haberlová Jana , Magnano Gianmichele , Walter Maggie C , Quijano-Roy Susana , Carlier Robert-Yves , van Engelen Baziel G M , Vissing John , Straub Volker , Bönnemann Carsten G , Mercuri Eugenio , Muntoni Francesco , Pegoraro Elena , Bertini Enrico , Udd Bjarne , Ricci Enzo , Bruno Claudio
Published: September 2017

Objectives

To characterise the pattern and spectrum of involvement on muscle MRI in a large cohort of patients with sarcoglycanopathies, which are limb-girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMD2C–2F) caused by mutations in one of the four genes coding for muscle sarcoglycans.

Methods

Lower limb MRI scans of patients with LGMD2C–2F, ranging from severe childhood variants to milder adult-onset forms, were collected in 17 neuromuscular referral centres in Europe and USA. Muscle involvement was evaluated semiquantitatively on T1-weighted images according to a visual score, and the global pattern was assessed as well.

Results

Scans from 69 patients were examined (38 LGMD2D, 18 LGMD2C, 12 LGMD2E and 1 LGMD2F). A common pattern of involvement was found in all the analysed scans irrespective of the mutated gene. The most and earliest affected muscles were the thigh adductors, glutei and posterior thigh groups, while lower leg muscles were relatively spared even in advanced disease. A proximodistal gradient of involvement of vasti muscles was a consistent finding in these patients, including the most severe ones.

Conclusions

Muscle involvement on MRI is consistent in patients with LGMD2C–F and can be helpful in distinguishing sarcoglycanopathies from other LGMDs or dystrophinopathies, which represent the most common differential diagnoses. Our data provide evidence about selective susceptibility or resistance to degeneration of specific muscles when one of the sarcoglycans is deficient, as well as preliminary information about progressive involvement of the different muscles over time.
Numerical studies for a better understanding of static ice loads on dams
Authors: Kharik Ekaterina , Morse Brian , Roubtsova Varvara , Fafard Mario , Côté Alain , Comfort George
Published: September 2017

It is important to anticipate potential maximum ice loads to ensure the structural stability of dams in cold climates. Finite element modeling (FEM) can provide some insights into process mechanisms. Four important ice-loading events on dams are presented and simulated. The measured loads were caused by the thermal expansion of ice together with intermediate water level fluctuations. Only the thermal expansion is modeled by the FEM, but the impact of water level fluctuations can increase lateral confinement that increases the predicted load by 36% to 106%, particularly when the cover contains mostly columnar ice. It is demonstrated that the presence of snow ice in the cover can decrease the predicted load by 35% to 53%. The study also demonstrates how initial stresses in the ice can affect the ultimate load and show that the very-difficult-to-manage delayed-elastic strain term need not be included in the material model where preliminary results suffice.
A multi-century estimate of suspended sediment yield from Lillooet Lake, southern Coast Mountains, Canada
Authors: Heideman Marit , Menounos Brian , Clague John J.
Published: September 2017

We use annually laminated lake sediments to estimate suspended sediment yield for a 3850 km2 montane catchment in the British Columbia Coast Mountains. Sediment yield over the past 369 years averages 213 ± 38 Mg·km−2·a−1. Sediment yield increases to 285 ± 50 Mg·km−2·a−1 during the first half of the twentieth century and declines thereafter. The frequency of high-yield events during the 369 year period is irregular: 11 of the 34 events occur in the early part of the twentieth century, a time when glaciers in the watershed underwent major retreat. We fitted a generalized extreme value (GEV) model to estimate quantiles of the sediment yield distribution, and we used epoch analysis to examine persistence in sediment yield following 34 of the largest events. Persistence is greatest for the most extreme events; it is more variable for events that recur, on average, every 10–25 years. Our results indicate that sediment yield is linked to long-term changes in sediment supply to the lake. The results of this study extend earlier sediment yield estimates and improve understanding of linkages to watershed geomorphology, recent glacier retreat, and landslides in the Lillooet River watershed.