bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of ancient lakes in genetic and phenotypic diversification of freshwater snails
Authors: Hirano Takahiro , Saito Takumi , Tsunamoto Yoshihiro , Koseki Joichiro , Prozorova Larisa , Do Van Tu , Matsuoka Keiji , Nakai Katsuki , Suyama Yoshihisa , Chiba Satoshi
Published: October 2019

Endemic organisms of ancient lakes have been studied as models to understand processes of speciation and adaptive radiation. However, it remains unclear how ancient lakes play roles in genetic and phenotypic diversity of freshwater mollusks. In the present study, we focus on viviparid freshwater snails in the ancient lakes of East and Southeast Asia (Japan and China) to address this question. Using molecular phylogenetic analyses based on mitochondrial (COI, 16S) and nuclear genes (18S, 28S, H3), we show that patterns of species diversification in viviparid lineages. Colonization to ancient lakes occurred independently in China and Japan at least four times, with subsequent diversification into more than two species within each lake group. Morphological analyses of fossil related viviparids suggest parallel phenotypic evolution occurred in the different lakes and ages. Each lake contained a single lineage which was phenotypically diversified relative to those from other sites. Using genome‐wide SNPs obtained by MIG‐seq, we also examined the genetic structure of three Japanese viviparids, including two endemic species of ancient Lake Biwa. The results suggest that these two species diversified from the population of the third species living in wetlands surrounding the lake. These findings suggest that rapid diversification of lineages and phenotypic divergence can occur in ancient lakes compared to other habitats. Formation of large lakes probably promotes speciation and phenotypic divergence as a result of adaptation into different microhabitats. High numbers of ancient lakes could be a driver of species diversity in Asian viviparid snails.
Behavioral decision‐making model of the intelligent vehicle based on driving risk assessment
Authors: Zheng Xunjia , Huang Heye , Wang Jianqiang , Zhao Xiaocong , Xu Qing
Published: October 2019

Intelligent‐driving technologies play crucial roles in reducing road‐traffic accidents and ensuring more convenience while driving. One of the significant challenges in developing an intelligent vehicle is how to operate it safely without causing fear in other human drivers. This paper presents a new behavioral decision‐making model to achieve both safety and high efficiency and also to reduce the adverse effect of autonomous vehicles on the other road users while driving. Moreover, we attempt to adapt the model for human drivers so that users can understand, adapt, and utilize intelligent‐driving technologies. Furthermore, this paper proposes a combined spring model for assessing driving risk. Thus, we analyze some driving characteristics of drivers and choose “safety” and “high efficiency” as the two main factors that are pursued by drivers while driving. Based on the principle of least action, a multiobjective optimization cost function is established for the decision‐making model. Finally, we design six unprotected left‐turn scenarios at a T‐intersection and three unprotected left‐turn scenarios at a standard two‐lane intersection for applying simulation algorithm and provide a decision‐making map for developing intelligent‐driving technologies. Based on the principle of least action, this paper demonstrates that optimization theory can give insight into drivers’ behavior and can also contribute to the development of intelligent‐driving algorithms. The experimental results reveal that the behavioral decision‐making model can always avoid collision accidents on the premise of ensuring certain efficiency, and it can achieve 97.01%, 94.52%, 96.67%, 91.18%, 101.27%, 83.33%, 102.94%, 103.03%, and 105.77% of time to intersection's maximum pass rate in the considered nine scenarios.
Nursing assistants' perceptions of their role in the resident experience
Authors: Abrahamson Kathleen , Fox Rebekah , Roundtree Aimee , Farris Kristen
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study was to examine nursing assistants' perspectives of their role in the nursing home resident experience. Recent efforts to improve nursing home quality are focused on providing person‐centered care and improving the resident experience. However, the literature on nursing home quality lacks the perspective and experiences of nursing assistants themselves, despite their crucial role in the resident experience. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 25 nursing assistants from 17 organizations and seven states. Data were analyzed using an interpretive approach that identified relevant codes and themes. Respondents perceived that they play a pivotal role in the resident experience by providing choices, communicating important information, comforting, and living within the daily reality of cognitively impaired residents. Nursing assistants' challenges included using non‐verbal communication, balancing personal care while maintaining boundaries, and dealing with a perceived lack of trust. Nursing assistants are integral to interpersonal engagement with residents and relationship‐based activities, such as communication, caring, and protecting. Increased nursing assistant input into programs and policies to improve the resident experience is warranted. Quality assessment should incorporate direct input from residents and nursing assistants regarding person‐centered care.
Jenniferann.com, regional development, and realising the aspirations of mana whenua in Pōkeno
Authors: Ryks John , Kilgour Jonathan , Whitehead Jesse , Whetu Amy , Whetu James
Published: October 2019

During the 1990s, the township of Pōkeno was held up as an example of a declining rural Aotearoa/New Zealand. By‐passed from the national state highway, it lost its status as a service hub and drastic measures were introduced to revitalise the town, including renaming the town “Jenniferann.com.” Pōkeno has since undergone an unlikely transformation, with foreign investment and its location within an extended Auckland commuter zone meaning that the township has grown exponentially. This article describes the transformation of Pōkeno and uncovers what has been missing from discussions about Pōkeno's reinvention, namely, the place of mana whenua.
Fecal microbiota transplantation in a toddler after heart transplant was a safe and effective treatment for recurrent Clostridiodes difficile infection: A case report
Authors: Spinner Joseph A. , Bocchini Claire E. , Luna Ruth A. , Thapa Santosh , Balderas Miriam A. , Denfield Susan W. , Dreyer William J. , Nagy‐Szakal Dorottya , Ihekweazu Faith D. , Versalovic James , Savidge Tor , Kellermayer Richard
Published: October 2019

Pediatric recipients of SOT have a significantly increased risk of Clostridiodes (formerly Clostridium) difficile infection (CDI), which is associated with adverse outcomes after SOT. Alterations to the intestinal microbiota community structure increase the risk of CDI. FMT is a safe and effective treatment for recurrent CDI in immunocompetent children and adults. While there are increasing data that FMT in immunosuppressed patients is safe and effective without increased risk of infection, data regarding safety and efficacy of FMT in children after SOT are limited. To our knowledge, we report the youngest immunocompromised patient to undergo FMT and the third overall case of FMT in a child after HTx. Our patient presented with five episodes of rCDI in 6 months, and 16S rRNA genetic analysis revealed significant loss of overall microbiota community structure and diversity prior to FMT compared with a donor and a healthy, age‐matched control. After FMT, marked and prolonged (at least 16 months) shifts in the recipient microbiota community structure and diversity were evident, approaching that of donor and healthy, age‐matched control. FMT was well tolerated, restored microbial diversity without any graft or transplant complications, and prevented further rCDI episodes after more than 4 years of follow‐up.
Loyalty or Competence: Political Use of Performance Information and Negativity Bias
Authors: Hong Sounman , Kim Youngrok
Published: October 2019

This article explores how political principals weigh loyalty and competence in public personnel decisions. Exploiting the abrupt shift in political leadership following the impeachment of President Park Geun‐hye of Korea, the authors examine how the newly elected president made the decision to retain or dismiss 118 agency heads appointed by the previous administration. The evidence shows the importance of loyalty in managerial survival: those who had a political patronage relationship with the ousted president were less likely to survive in the new administration. However, the authors also demonstrate the relevance of competence, as measured by the outcomes of agency performance evaluation. Further, the article shows the existence of negativity bias: the punishment for low performance is greater than the reward for high performance. Finally, the authors provide support for the idea that political principals reward loyalists, but only if they show acceptable levels of competence.
Insinuatio in Lucrezia Marinella’s Essortationi alle donne (1645): Exhorting Marital Harmony And Insinuating Feminist Critique
Authors: Sinclair Amy
Published: October 2019

Lucrezia Marinella (c.1579–1653) is a pivotal figure in the history of early modern women’s writing. Yet her final non‐fiction contribution to the querelle des femmes, a book of exhortations for women entitled Essortationi alle donne (1645), has received little critical attention. The Essortationi’s ostensibly conservative volte face on the feminist principles that characterise the author’s earlier works has perplexed and divided modern scholars. This article provides a new reading of the Essortationi drawing on the classical rhetorical technique of insinuatio. Through close textual analysis of Marinella’s exhortation to marital harmony as an example, I trace the author’s rhetorical posture of deference to traditional authorities and ideas about marriage and the wife’s role. I show how, as an exercise in insinuatio, this works to ingratiate her audience and mitigate resistance before exposing those authorities and precepts to critical scrutiny. Contextualising the Essortationi within mid‐Seicento Venice reveals how this strategy responded to a cultural climate defined by antifeminism and literary dissimulation. This article both sheds new light on Marinella’s complex, ground‐breaking contribution to the male‐authored Renaissance conduct literature tradition and reveals the sophistication of her rhetoric as she challenges women’s subordination to male authority.
Insights into the polymorphism in HLA‐DRA and its evolutionary relationship with HLA haplotypes
Authors: Matern Ben M. , Olieslagers Timo I. , Voorter Christina E. M. , Groeneweg Mathijs , Tilanus Marcel G. J.
Published: October 2019

HLA‐DRA encodes the alpha chain of the HLA‐DR protein, one of the classical HLA class II molecules. Reported polymorphism within HLA‐DRA is currently limited compared with other HLA genes, as only a single polymorphism encodes an amino acid difference in the translated protein. Since this SNP (rs7192, HLA00662.1:g.4276G>T p.Val217Leu) lies within exon 4, in the region encoding the cytoplasmic tail, the resulting protein is effectively monomorphic. For this reason, in‐depth studies on HLA‐DRA and its function have been limited. However, analysis of sequences from the 1000 Genomes Project and preliminary data from our lab reveals unrepresented polymorphism within HLA‐DRA, suggesting a more complex role within the MHC than previously assumed. This study focuses on elucidating the extent of HLA‐DRA polymorphism, and extending our understanding of the gene's role in HLA‐DR~HLA‐DQ haplotypes. Ninety‐eight samples were sequenced for full‐length HLA‐DRA, and from this analysis, we identified 20 novel SNP positions in the intronic sequences within the 5711 bp region represented in IPD‐IMGT/HLA. This polymorphism gives rise to at least 22 novel HLA‐DRA alleles, and the patterns of intronic and 3′ UTR polymorphism correspond to HLA‐DRA~HLA‐DRB345~HLA‐DRB1~HLA‐DQB1 haplotypes. The current understanding of the organization of the genes within the HLA‐DR region assumes a single lineage for the HLA‐DRA gene, as opposed to multiple gene lineages, such as in HLA‐DRB. This study suggests that the intron and 3′ UTR polymorphism of HLA‐DRA indicates different lineages, and represents the HLA‐DRA~HLA‐DRB345~HLA‐DRB1~HLA‐DQB1 haplotypes.
Successful treatment with isavuconazole of subcutaneous phaeohyphomycosis in a kidney transplant recipient
Authors: Dalla Gasperina Daniela , Lombardi Domenico , Rovelli Cristina , Di Rosa Zaira , Lepera Valentina , Baj Andreina , Nava Alice , Lombardi Gianluigi , Grossi Paolo Antonio
Published: October 2019

Phaeohyphomycosis is a diverse group of uncommon mycotic infections caused by dematiaceous fungi which appears to be increasing in incidence, particularly in transplant recipients. Alternaria is the most frequent isolated genus. Subcutaneous, pulmonary and disseminated disease are the most common sites of Alternaria infection in solid organ transplant recipients. We report the first case, to our knowledge, of a kidney transplant recipient with Alternaria alternata subcutaneous infection who was successfully treated with isavuconazole.
Effect of storage of plasma in the presence of red blood cells and platelets: re‐evaluating the shelf life of whole blood
Authors: Huish Sian , Green Laura , Curnow Elinor , Wiltshire Michael , Cardigan Rebecca
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

There is renewed interest in administering whole blood (WB) for the resuscitation of patients with bleeding trauma. The shelf life of WB was established decades ago based on the viability of red blood cells. However, plasma quality during WB storage is not established.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

White blood cell– and platelet‐reduced WB (WB–PLT) was prepared using standard processes and compared to WB processed using a platelet‐sparing WBC reduction (WB + PLT) filter. WB (± PLT) was held at 2 to 6°C for 35 days alongside control units of red blood cells (RBCs) in saline, adenine, glucose, and mannitol and liquid plasma. A series of assays explored the coagulation potential and RBC quality.

RESULTS

While fibrinogen and α2‐antiplasmin remained unaffected by storage, other factors varied between components or over time at 2 to 6°C. At 14 days factor V, factor VII, α2‐antiplasmin and free protein S antigen remained on average greater than 0.50 IU/mL or 50%, as appropriate, in WB ± PLT. Factor VIII was on average 0.49 IU/mL in WB+PLT, and 0.56 IU/mL for WB–PLT. Free protein S activity decreased significantly in all arms but remained on average greater than 40% at Day 14. Contact activation was not demonstrated before Day 14. Thrombin generation in plasma remained relatively stable to Day 35 in all arms.

CONCLUSIONS

Clotting factor activity remained at or above a mean of 0.5 IU/mL, or 50%, at Day 14 for factor V, factor VII, factor VIII, free protein S, fibrinogen, and α2‐antiplasmin in all arms. Further data on platelet function in WB+PLT is needed to inform its shelf life.
Development of herbicide resistance in weeds in a crop rotation with acetolactate synthase‐tolerant sugar beets under varying selection pressure
Authors: Löbmann A , Christen O , Petersen J
Published: October 2019

The development of acetolactate synthase (ALS) tolerant sugar beet provides new opportunities for weed control in sugar beet cultivation. The system consists of an ALS−inhibiting herbicide (foramsulfuron + thiencarbazone‐methyl) and a herbicide‐tolerant sugar beet variety. Previously, the use of ALS‐inhibitors in sugar beet was limited due to the susceptibility of the crop to active ingredients from this mode of action. The postulated benefits of cultivation of the ALS‐tolerant sugar beet are associated with potential risks. Up to now, with no relevant proportion of herbicide‐tolerant crops in Germany, ALS‐inhibitors are used in many different crops. An additional use in sugar beet cultivation could increase the selection pressure for ALS‐resistant weeds. To evaluate the impact of varying intensity of ALS‐inhibitor use on two weed species (Alopecurus myosuroides and Tripleurospermum perforatum) in a crop rotation, field trials were conducted in Germany in two locations from 2014 to 2017. Weed densities, genetic resistance background and crop yields were annually assessed. The results indicate that it is possible to control ALS‐resistant weeds with an adapted herbicide strategy in a crop rotation including herbicide‐tolerant sugar beet. According to the weed density and species, the herbicide strategy must be extended to graminicide treatment in sugar beet, and a residual herbicide must be used in winter wheat. The spread of resistant biotypes in our experiments could not be attributed to the integration of herbicide‐tolerant cultivars, although the application of ALS‐inhibitors promoted the development of resistant weed populations. Annual use of ALS‐inhibitors resulted in significant high weed densities and caused seriously yield losses. Genetic analysis of surviving weed plants confirmed the selection of ALS‐resistant biotypes.
Data Analysis for the Preventive Maintenance of Machinery
Authors: Piqueras Ricardo , Fernandez-Crehuet Jose Maria
Published: October 2019

This article shows the importance of data for the resolution of current problems, through a case study of preventive maintenance of a company’s machines. From a given inspection of the condition of the machines, enough data is obtained to simulate the operation of the machines under specific conditions using  Python programming environment, for a long enough period of time to obtain reliable information about the machines’ lifetime. By using “R”, the statistical analysis of the data is performed to determine the optimal period between repairs, schedule the company’s preventive maintenance and show the possibility of solving complex problems from a simple data set.
Comportamiento del lenguaje de líderes políticos venezolanos en el uso de Twitter
Authors: Aguillón Vale Pedro David , Narváez Serra Jellicy
Published: October 2019

Este artículo analiza, desde una perspectiva lingüístico-discursiva, el comportamiento del lenguaje que asumieron líderes políticos venezolanos en la producción de mensajes en sus cuentas de Twitter. Se analizaron 356 tuits a partir del enfoque semántico y pragmático y la perspectiva sociocognitiva del análisis crítico. Los resultados revelaron: a) el referendo revocatorio contra el presidente Nicolás Maduro y Patria constituyeron los temas más recurrentes y b) la profusión de lexías negativas y acciones lingüísticas de aseveración e insultos marcaron la ofensiva verbal que definió el discurso político. Se concluye que la intención comunicativa de los líderes estuvo más enfocada a acrecentar la confrontación discursiva que a promover un verdadero diálogo de paz en el contexto político venezolano.
Experimental Comparison of an Annular Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Hull Against Past Model Test Data
Authors: Allen Hannah L. , Goupee Andrew J. , Viselli Anthony M. , Allen Christopher K. , Dagher Habib J.
Published: October 2019

Floating offshore wind turbine (FOWT) hull technologies are evolving rapidly with many technically viable designs. However, a commercially dominant architecture has yet to emerge. Early hull designs including semisubmersible, spar, and tension leg platforms were largely derived from offshore oil and gas technologies, but recent developments in the commercial application and optimization of FOWTs have resulted in a number of unique, FOWT-specific hull configurations. One hull design of interest includes the application of a moonpool to aid in mitigating platform motion in the presence of waves. A version of this annular hull has been deployed in France and Japan. In this paper, a 6-MW version of an annular hull is studied through experimental model testing and numerical analysis. The primary portion of this work involves testing a 1/100th-scale model in the Harold Alfond Wind Wave Ocean Engineering Laboratory at the University of Maine. A secondary component of this work investigates the capability of ANSYS aqwa, a typical commercial hydrodynamic software, to recreate the wave-induced motion of a FOWT hull containing a moonpool. An additional secondary component of this study compares the wave-only performance of the annular hull to experimental data obtained for the DeepCwind semisubmersible, spar, and tension leg platform to provide context for the measured response. The results obtained show that ANSYS aqwa can adequately predict the gross response of the annular hull motion and that the moonpool design tested often exhibits greater motion than the systems tested during the DeepCwind campaign.
Neural network-based model of photoresist reflow
Authors: Chia Charmaine , Martis Joel , Jeffrey Stefanie S. , Howe Roger T.
Published: October 2019

When polymers are heated above their glass transition temperature, they enter a viscous rubbery state that allows the polymer to be reshaped in a process called “reflow.” The final shape depends on the material, substrate, the initial dimensions of the structure, the reflow temperature, and time and is mostly governed by energy minimization. Most empirical models so far have used linear regression to predict scalar parameters like the thickness of the reflowed structure but do not account for intermediate shapes. In this work, the authors measure the profiles of photoresist patterns subjected to various reflow conditions, complementing results in the literature. Using shallow neural networks, they develop models to predict the type of shape produced after reflow and its full cross-sectional height profile. These models can serve as an aid for polymer engineering and fabrication and also demonstrate the usefulness of a neural network-based approach to physical optimization problems without analytical solutions.
Spectrum as a perceptual cue to vowel length in Czech, a quantity language
Authors: Podlipský Václav Jonáš , Chládková Kateřina , Šimáčková Šárka
Published: October 2019

Vowel length contrasts in quantity languages are typically realized primarily through duration. This study tested whether spectral cues contribute to the perceptual identification of the short-long monophthongal contrasts in two varieties of Czech. Results showed that listeners attend to spectrum as well as to duration, both for the high vowel-length pairs, which display consistent spectral differentiation in production, and for the remaining contrasts, whose spectral differences are subtle. Reliance on spectrum was generally higher for Bohemian than Moravian listeners. The findings reveal the utilization of spectrum for vowel length perception in Czech, which is described as a “true” quantity language.
Acoustic reflectivity of a harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena)
Authors: Au Whitlow W. L. , Kastelein Ronald A. , Helder-Hoek Lean
Published: October 2019

Acoustic backscatter measurements were conducted on a stationary harbor porpoise (Phocoena phocoena) under controlled conditions. The measurements were made with the porpoise in the broadside aspect using three different types of signals: (1) a 475 μs linear frequency-modulated (FM) pulse with a frequency range from 23 to 160 kHz; (2) a simulated bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops “truncates”) click with a peak frequency of 120 kHz; and (3) a simulated killer whale (Orcinus orca) click with a peak frequency of 60 kHz. The measurement with the FM pulse indicated that the mean target strength at the broadside aspect decreased from −26 to −50 dB as the frequency increased from 23 to 120 kHz in a nearly linear fashion (on a logarithm plot). Target strength variation with frequency was similar to a previous backscatter measurement on a bottlenose dolphin over a comparable frequency range (23–80 kHz). The porpoise seems to be a stealth body with low backscatter properties. The target strength of the porpoise was also about 15−16 dB lower than that of the bottlenose dolphin. The difference in lung volume of the two species when expressed in dB was also approximately 15 dB.
Prognosis of remaining bearing life with vibration signals using a sequential Monte Carlo framework
Authors: Phi Duong Bach , Kim Jong-Myon
Published: October 2019

This letter proposes a nonlinear hybrid model method to assess a bearing component's health for long-term prediction of the remaining useful life (RUL) before a breakdown occurs. This model uses neural training of a recursive extreme learning machine (RELM) core integrated with a Monte Carlo–based framework. Estimation of the model's parameters, along with the system states, is used to construct an updated model that is utilized for prediction. Practical experiments using the public benchmark dataset indicate that the RELM method demonstrates superior effectiveness for RUL estimation, as measured by the (α-λ) metric and the cumulative relative accuracy.
Nonlinear bulk elasticity imaging using dual frequency ultrasound
Authors: Kvam Johannes , Solberg Stian , Myhre Ola F. , Rodriguez-Molares Alfonso , Angelsen Bjørn A. J.
Published: October 2019

The nonlinear acoustic bulk properties of tissue, e.g., the coefficient of nonlinearity, βn, or the nonlinear bulk elasticity, βp=βnκ0, have been shown to be promising parameters for tissue characterization due to their sensitivity to tissue structure. Previously developed methods for imaging these parameters using single frequency ultrasound have shown success in a laboratory setting using the transmission mode. In the pulse-echo mode, however, unknown absorption, diffraction, and speckle produce unreliable estimates and instability, causing these methods to have achieved no clinical relevance. In this paper, a pulse-echo method for measurement of the nonlinear bulk elasticity is presented using a dual frequency approach. The method is less sensitive to diffraction and absorption due to a separate low frequency manipulation wave. The technique is tested in both simulations and in vitro in a heterogeneous phantom with two regions of different nonlinear properties. Both in simulations and in vitro, a spatial βp map is produced where the two regions are clearly distinguished. In addition, the quantitative estimates of βp obtained are close to the expected values, making the method a promising first step toward in vivo imaging of nonlinear bulk properties.
Kids these days: Why the youth of today seem lacking
Authors: Protzko John , Schooler Jonathan W.
Published: October 2019

We view kids these days unfavorably, especially on traits at which we excel, partly because we have a biased view of the past.
DNA methylation reprogramming, TE derepression, and postzygotic isolation of nascent animal species
Authors: Laporte M. , Le Luyer J. , Rougeux C. , Dion-Côté A.-M. , Krick M. , Bernatchez L.
Published: October 2019

We present evidence for the dual role of epigenetics and transposable elements have a dual role in the reproductive isolation of nascent species.
Structure and genome ejection mechanism of
Staphylococcus aureus
phage P68
Authors: Hrebík Dominik , Štveráková Dana , Škubník Karel , Füzik Tibor , Pantůček Roman , Plevka Pavel
Published: October 2019

Cryo-EM reveals the genome ejection mechanism of bacteriophage P68, a potential phage therapy agent against
Staphylococcus aureus
.
Bacterial production and direct functional screening of expanded molecular libraries for discovering inhibitors of protein aggregation
Authors: Delivoria Dafni C. , Chia Sean , Habchi Johnny , Perni Michele , Matis Ilias , Papaevgeniou Nikoletta , Reczko Martin , Chondrogianni Niki , Dobson Christopher M. , Vendruscolo Michele , Skretas Georgios
Published: October 2019

Engineered bacteria enable the screening of vast molecular libraries for discovering inhibitors of pathogenic protein aggregation.
Common architecture of Tc toxins from human and insect pathogenic bacteria
Authors: Leidreiter F. , Roderer D. , Meusch D. , Gatsogiannis C. , Benz R. , Raunser S.
Published: October 2019

The pore formation and translocation machinery of Tc toxins is conserved; in contrast, the outer shell is structurally variable.
Epigenetic dynamics in infancy and the impact of maternal engagement
Authors: Krol Kathleen M. , Moulder Robert G. , Lillard Travis S. , Grossmann Tobias , Connelly Jessica J.
Published: October 2019

Maternal behavior affects epigenetic tuning of the oxytocin receptor in human infants.
A modulator of wild-type glucocerebrosidase improves pathogenic phenotypes in dopaminergic neuronal models of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Burbulla Lena F. , Jeon Sohee , Zheng Jianbin , Song Pingping , Silverman Richard B. , Krainc Dimitri
Published: October 2019

New small-molecule modulators of wild-type glucocerebrosidase improve pathogenic phenotypes in different cellular models of Parkinson’s disease.
Cognitive refractory state caused by spontaneous epileptic high-frequency oscillations in the human brain
Authors: Liu Su , Parvizi Josef
Published: October 2019

Epileptic brain tissue functions normally outside the ~1.3-s window preceding pathological activity.
A real-life cyborg brain
Authors: Han Li-Hsin
Published: October 2019

A wireless brain neural interface and four-limp exoskeleton enabled a tetraplegic man to grasp and walk again.
A new function for polycomb in immune evasion
Authors: Naxerova Kamila
Published: October 2019

Polycomb repressive complex 2 silences MHC class I gene expression.
Double Tubular Contractile Structure of the Type VI Secretion System Displays Striking Flexibility and Elasticity
Authors: Stietz Maria Silvina , Liang Xiaoye , Wong Megan , Hersch Steven , Dong Tao G.
Published: October 2019

The cell wall is a physical scaffold that all transenvelope complexes have to cross for assembly. However, the cell wall-deficient state has been described as a common condition found in both Gram-negative and Gram-positive pathogens during persistent infections. Loss of cell wall is known to have pleiotropic physiological effects, but how membrane-anchored large cellular organelles adapt to this unique state is less completely understood. Our study examined the assembly of the T6SS in cell wall-deficient spheroplast cells. We report the elastic nature of contractile T6SS tubules under such conditions, providing key insights for understanding how large intracellular structures such as the T6SS accommodate the multifaceted changes in cell wall-deficient cells.
Human Enterovirus Group B Viruses Rely on Vimentin Dynamics for Efficient Processing of Viral Nonstructural Proteins
Authors: Turkki Paula , Laajala Mira , Flodström-Tullberg Malin , Marjomäki Varpu
Published: October 2019

A virus needs the host cell in order to replicate and produce new progeny viruses. For this, the virus takes over the host cell and modifies it to become a factory for viral proteins. Irrespective of the specific virus family, these proteins can be divided into structural and nonstructural proteins. Structural proteins are the building blocks for the new progeny virions, whereas the nonstructural proteins orchestrate the takeover of the host cell and its functions. Here, we have shown a mechanism that viruses exploit in order to regulate the host cell. We show that viral protein synthesis induces vimentin cages, which promote production of specific viral proteins that eventually control apoptosis and host cell death. This study specifies vimentin as the key regulator of these events and indicates that viral proteins have different fates in the cells depending on their association with vimentin cages.
Complete Genome Sequences of Four
Microbacterium
Strains Isolated from Metal- and Radionuclide-Rich Soils
Authors: Ortet Philippe , Gallois Nicolas , Long Justine , Zirah Séverine , Berthomieu Catherine , Armengaud Jean , Alpha-Bazin Béatrice , Barakat Mohamed , Chapon Virginie
Published: October 2019

Here, we present the genome sequences of four
Microbacterium
strains, which were isolated at different locations in Europe from metal- or radionuclide-rich soils. High-quality complete genome sequences were obtained with PacBio and Illumina data sets with an original two-step procedure.
Genomic Characterization of a Coxsackievirus A20 Strain Recovered from a Child with Acute Flaccid Paralysis in Nigeria
Authors: Faleye T. O. C. , Adewumi O. M. , Olayinka O. T. , Adeniji J. A.
Published: October 2019

In light of recurrent outbreaks of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) in Nigeria, we describe the genome sequence of a coxsackievirus A20 strain (CVA20).
Complete Genome Sequence of a Virulent African Swine Fever Virus from a Domestic Pig in Ukraine
Authors: Kovalenko Ganna , Ducluzeau Anne-Lise , Ishchenko Liudmyla , Sushko Mykola , Sapachova Maryna , Rudova Nataliia , Solodiankin Oleksii , Gerilovych Anton , Dagdag Ralf , Redlinger Matthew , Bezymennyi Maksym , Frant Maciej , Lange Christian E. , Dubchak Inna , Mezhenskyi Andrii A. , Nychyk Serhiy , Bortz Eric , Drown Devin M.
Published: October 2019

Here, we report the complete genome sequence of an African swine fever (ASF) virus (ASFV/Kyiv/2016/131) isolated from the spleen of a domestic pig in Ukraine with a lethal case of African swine fever. Using only long-read Nanopore sequences, we assembled a full-length genome of 191,911 base pairs in a single contig.
Whole-Genome Sequence of Escherichia coli Serotype O157:H7 Strain ATCC 43888
Authors: Uhlich Gaylen A. , Paoli George C. , Zhang Xinmin , Andreozzi Elisa
Published: October 2019

Escherichia coli
serotype O157:H7 strain ATCC 43888 is a Shiga toxin-deficient human fecal isolate. Due to its reduced toxicity and its availability from a curated culture collection, the strain has been used extensively in applied research studies. Here, we report the Illumina-corrected PacBio whole-genome sequence of
E. coli
O157:H7 strain ATCC 43888.
Draft Genome Sequences of 43 Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium Isolates from a Commercial Beef Processing Plant and Retail Ground Beef
Authors: Holman Devin B. , Gzyl Katherine E. , Zaheer Rahat , Jones Tineke H. , McAllister Tim A.
Published: October 2019

Here, we report the draft genome sequences of 36
Enterococcus faecalis
and 7
Enterococcus faecium
isolates recovered from a beef processing facility and retail ground beef. The beef processing facility samples were collected from beef carcasses, conveyor belts, and ground product.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Xanthomonas
Siphophage Samson
Authors: Clark Sabrina , Le Tram , Moreland Russell , Liu Mei , Gonzalez Carlos F. , Gill Jason J. , Ramsey Jolene
Published: October 2019

The
Xanthomonas
genus includes many Gram-negative plant-associated bacteria. Here, we report a virulent
Xanthomonas
siphophage called Samson. A siphophage isolated from sewage, Samson contains a 43,314-bp genome with 58 predicted genes. Samson has high nucleotide identity with
Pseudomonas
phage PaMx42.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Mesophilic Obligately Chemolithoautotrophic Hydrogen-Oxidizing Bacterium, Hydrogenovibrio marinus MH-110
Authors: Arai Hiroyuki , Ishii Masaharu
Published: October 2019

Hydrogenovibrio marinus
is a mesophilic, obligately chemolithoautotrophic, and hydrogen-oxidizing bacterium that uses three different RubisCOs at different carbon dioxide tensions. Here, we report its complete genome sequence, which is 2,491,293 bp long, with an average GC content of 44.1%.
Complete Genome Sequence of Citrobacter freundii Myophage Maleficent
Authors: Wright Hayden H. , Berkowitz Victoria , O’Leary Chandler , Newkirk Heather , Kongari Rohit , Gill Jason , Liu Mei
Published: October 2019

Citrobacter freundii, a member of theEnterobacteriaceaefamily, has been linked to opportunistic infections in neonates and immunocompromised adults. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of a T4-like myophage, Maleficent, which infectsC. freundii.
Complete Genome Sequence of Strain PM004, a Novel Cultured Member of the Human Oral Microbiome from the Candidate Phylum
Saccharibacteria
(TM7)
Authors: Murugkar Pallavi P. , Collins Andrew J. , Dewhirst Floyd E.
Published: October 2019

Strain PM004 is a cultured representative of human microbial taxon 955, a bacterium from the phylum
Saccharibacteria
. It is an obligate parasite with a genome of <0.9 Mb and can be grown in coculture with its host,
Pseudopropionibacterium propionicum
. The complete genome sequence is presented here.
Исследование RANS/ILES-методом влияния неоднородности температуры набегающего потока на пульсации давления в канале воздухозаборника
Authors: Аюпов Р Ш , Ayupov R S , Бендерский Леонид Александрович , Benderskiy Leonid Aleksandrovich , Любимов Дмитрий Александрович , Lyubimov Dmitriy Alexandrovich
Published: October 2019

Статья посвящена применению RANS/ILES-метода высокого разрешения для изучения влияния неоднородности поля температуры набегающего потока на дроссельные характеристики сверхзвукового воздухозаборника смешенного сжатия, интенсивность и спектральные характеристики пульсаций давления в канале воздухозаборника. Исследовано пять вариантов параметров набегающего потока, три из которых имели неоднородное поле температуры. Получены распределения уровня звукового давления в канале воздухозаборника и спектры пульсаций в точках на стенках.
Вычислительный эксперимент в задаче сверхзвукового обтекания затупленного тела с хвостовым расширением
Authors: Широков Иван Анатольевич , Shirokov Ivan Anatol'evich , Елизарова Татьяна Геннадьевна , Elizarova Tatyana Gennad'evna
Published: October 2019

Представлены результаты прямого численного моделирования сверхзвукового обтекания цилиндрической модели с хвостовым расширением. Показано сравнение полученных данных с результатами лабораторного эксперимента для чисел Маха 3 и 4 и углов атаки в 10 и 20 градусов. Результаты получены с применением квазигазодинамических уравнений.
Математическая модель функционирования кабель-троса привязной беспилотной платформы при воздействии ветровых нагрузок
Authors: Вишневский Владимир Миронович , Vishnevsky Vladimir Mironovich , Михайлов Евгений Александрович , Mikhaylov Evgeniy Alexandrovich , Тумченок Дмитрий Александрович , Tumchenok Dmitrii Aleksandrovich , Ширванян Артем Мартиросович , Shirvanyan Artem Martirosovich
Published: October 2019

Работа посвящена описанию математической модели привязной высотной беспилотной платформы, в которой электропитание двигательных установок и полезной
нагрузки осуществляется от наземного источника энергии по кабель-тросу. Для
выведенной системы дифференциальных уравнений определены величины и направления сил воздействия на беспилотный аппарат, что позволит произвести расчет необходимой мощности энергии, передаваемой с земли на борт, в зависимости
от высоты подъема и ветровой нагрузки при проектировании привязной беспилотной платформы.
Pragmatic randomised clinical trial of proton versus photon therapy for patients with non-metastatic breast cancer: the Radiotherapy Comparative Effectiveness (RadComp) Consortium trial protocol
Authors: Bekelman Justin E , Lu Hien , Pugh Stephanie , Baker Kaysee , Berg Christine D , de Gonzalez Amy Berrington , Braunstein Lior Z , Bosch Walter , Chauhan Cynthia , Ellenberg Susan , Fang L Christine , Freedman Gary M , Hahn Elizabeth A , Haffty B G , Khan Atif J , Jimenez Rachel B , Kesslering Christy , Ky Bonnie , Lee Choonsik , Lu Hsiao-Ming , Mishra Mark V , Mullins C Daniel , Mutter Robert W , Nagda Suneel , Pankuch Mark , Powell Simon N , Prior Fred W , Schupak Karen , Taghian Alphonse G , Wilkinson J Ben , MacDonald Shannon M , Cahlon Oren
Published: October 2019

Introduction

A broad range of stakeholders have called for randomised evidence on the potential clinical benefits and harms of proton therapy, a type of radiation therapy, for patients with breast cancer. Radiation therapy is an important component of curative treatment, reducing cancer recurrence and extending survival. Compared with photon therapy, the international treatment standard, proton therapy reduces incidental radiation to the heart. Our overall objective is to evaluate whether the differences between proton and photon therapy cardiac radiation dose distributions lead to meaningful reductions in cardiac morbidity and mortality after treatment for breast cancer.

Methods

We are conducting a large scale, multicentre pragmatic randomised clinical trial for patients with breast cancer who will be followed longitudinally for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, health-related quality of life and cancer control outcomes. A total of 1278 patients with non-metastatic breast cancer will be randomly allocated to receive either photon or proton therapy. The primary outcomes are major cardiovascular events, defined as myocardial infarction, coronary revascularisation, cardiovascular death or hospitalisation for unstable angina, heart failure, valvular disease, arrhythmia or pericardial disease. Secondary endpoints are urgent or unanticipated outpatient or emergency room visits for heart failure, arrhythmia, valvular disease or pericardial disease. The Radiotherapy Comparative Effectiveness (RadComp) Clinical Events Centre will conduct centralised, blinded adjudication of primary outcome events.

Ethics and dissemination

The RadComp trial has been approved by the institutional review boards of all participating sites. Recruitment began in February 2016. Current version of the protocol is A3, dated 08 November 2018. Dissemination plans include presentations at scientific conferences, scientific publications, stakeholder engagement efforts and presentation to the public via lay media outlets.

Trial registration number

NCT02603341
Physical work environment factors affecting risk for disability pension due to mental or musculoskeletal diagnoses among nursing professionals, care assistants and other occupations: a prospective, population-based cohort study
Authors: Gustafsson Klas , Marklund Staffan , Aronsson Gunnar , Leineweber Constanze
Published: October 2019

Objective

To study the influence of physical work factors on the risks of future disability pension (DP) due to mental or musculoskeletal diagnoses among nursing professionals, care assistants and all other occupations in the general working population in Sweden.

Methods

The prospective population study was based on representative samples of working individuals (n=79 004) aged 16–64, interviewed in the Swedish Work Environment Survey between 1993 and 2013. Information on diagnosed DP in 1994–2014 was gathered from the Social Insurance Agency’s database. The focus was on nursing professionals (registered nurses and midwives) and care assistants, for example, assistant nurses and hospital ward assistants. The outcome was DP, classified into two diagnostic groups. Associations between physical work factors and risk of DP were calculated using Cox regression with HR and 95% CI.

Results

Physical work factors were associated with future DP after adjusting for sociodemographic conditions and psychosocial work factors among care assistants (n=10 175) and among all other occupations (n=66 253), but not among nursing professionals (n=2576). The increased risk among care assistants (n=197) exposed to heavy physical work was 66% (HR 1.66, 95% CI 1.39 to 1.97), and for those exposed to strenuous work postures (n=420) it was 56% (HR 1.56, 95% CI 1.35 to 1.80). Physical work indicators were mainly associated with musculoskeletal DP diagnoses among care assistants, but two indicators were significant also for mental diagnoses. An increased risk of DP was found among nursing professionals (n=102) exposed to detergents or disinfectants (HR 1.48, 95% CI 1.06 to 2.05), but not among care assistants.

Conclusions

Heavy physical work and strenuous postures are predictors of future DP, particularly among care assistants and in the general working population. In order to reduce early exit from the workforce, efforts should be made to improve physical and ergonomic working conditions.
Study protocol: becoming and being a mother living with HIV - a multicentre longitudinal mixed methods study among pregnant women living with HIV, non-pregnant women living with HIV and pregnant women not living with HIV in a high-income setting (the 2B MOM study)
Authors: Moseholm Ellen , Fetters Micheal D , Aho Inka , Mellgren Åsa , Johansen Isik S , Storgaard Merete , Pedersen Gitte , Katzenstein Terese L , Weis Nina
Published: October 2019

Introduction

The success of combination antiretroviral therapy has decreased the risk of perinatal HIV transmission and normalised pregnancy in women living with HIV (WLWH). Despite these advances, WLWH still face complex medical and psychosocial issues during pregnancy and postpartum, and there is a gap of knowledge on the experiences of becoming and being a mother living with HIV in today’s context. The overall aim of this study is to investigate psychosocial outcomes and experiences of WLWH in Scandinavia during pregnancy and early motherhood.

Methods and analysis

This is a multicentre longitudinal convergent mixed methods study consisting of a quantitative survey study, a qualitative interview study and a mixed methods analysis. The survey study aims to examine psychosocial outcomes of WLWH across the pregnancy – postpartum trajectory. Participants are pregnant WLWH living in Scandinavia. Two control groups of HIV-negative pregnant women and non-pregnant WLWH are also included. Data is collected in the third trimester, 3 and 6 months postpartum using standardised questionnaires. Statistical analysis will assess changes over time and identify predictors of adverse outcomes. The interview study seeks to understand experiences of pregnancy and becoming a mother while living with HIV. Pregnant WLWH who are enrolled in the survey study will be asked to participate in individual interviews in the third trimester and 6 months postpartum. Data will be analysed using narrative analysis. The survey and interview results will be merged in a mixed methods analysis to assess confirmation, expansion or discordance between the data sets.

Ethics and dissemination

Approval from the Danish Data Protection Agency (VD-2018–253), and the Finnish and Swedish Ethics Committees have been obtained (HUS/1330/2019 and Dnr: 2019–04451, respectively). Study results will be disseminated to patient organisations, through publications in peer-reviewed journals and at scientific conferences.