bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lactylation drives resolution
Authors: Williams Erin R.
Published: November 2019

Histone modifications derived from the metabolite lactate promote transcription of genes necessary for the resolution of inflammation.
Population Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacogenetics of Ethambutol in Adult Patients Coinfected with Tuberculosis and HIV
Authors: Sundell Jesper , Bienvenu Emile , Birgersson Sofia , Äbelö Angela , Ashton Michael
Published: November 2019

This study aimed to characterize the population pharmacokinetics and pharmacogenetics of ethambutol in tuberculosis-HIV-coinfected adult patients. Ethambutol plasma concentrations, determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, in 63 patients receiving ethambutol as part of rifampin-based fixed-dose combination therapy for tuberculosis were analyzed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling.
A Fluorinated Phenylbenzothiazole Arrests the Trypanosoma cruzi Cell Cycle and Diminishes the Infection of Mammalian Host Cells
Authors: Cuevas-Hernández Roberto I. , Girard Richard M. B. M. , Martínez-Cerón Sarai , Santos da Silva Marcelo , Elias Maria Carolina , Crispim Marcell , Trujillo-Ferrara José G. , Silber Ariel Mariano
Published: November 2019

Chagas disease (CD) is a human infection caused by
Trypanosoma cruzi
. CD was traditionally endemic to the Americas; however, due to migration it has spread to countries where it is not endemic. The current chemotherapy to treat CD induces several side effects, and its effectiveness in the chronic phase of the disease is controversial. In this contribution, substituted phenylbenzothiazole derivatives were synthesized and biologically evaluated as trypanocidal agents against
Trypanosoma cruzi
.
Efficacy of Bacteriophages in a Staphylococcus aureus Nondiabetic or Diabetic Foot Infection Murine Model
Authors: Albac S. , Medina M. , Labrousse D. , Hayez D. , Bonnot D. , Anzala N. , Laurent F. , Ferry T. , Dublanchet A. , Chavanet P. , Fevre C. , Croisier D.
Published: November 2019

This study investigated the
in vivo
efficacy of three bacteriophages combined compared with linezolid in two mouse models (nondiabetic and diabetic) of
Staphylococcus aureus
foot infection. In both models, a single injection of bacteriophages in the hindpaw showed significant antibacterial efficacy. Linezolid was as effective as bacteriophages in nondiabetic animals but ineffective in diabetic animals. These findings further support preclinical and clinical studies for the development of phage therapy.
Genetic Manipulation of Wild Human Gut
Bacteroides
Authors: Bencivenga-Barry Natasha A. , Lim Bentley , Herrera Carmen M. , Trent M. Stephen , Goodman Andrew L.
Published: November 2019

Human gut
Bacteroides
species exhibit strain-level differences in their physiology, ecology, and impact on human health and disease. However, existing approaches for genetic manipulation generally require construction of genetically modified parental strains for each microbe of interest or defined medium formulations. In this report, we introduce a robust and efficient strategy for targeted genetic manipulation of diverse wild-type
Bacteroides
species from the human gut. This system enables genetic investigation of members of human and animal microbiomes beyond existing model organisms.
d
-Ribose Catabolism in Archaea: Discovery of a Novel Oxidative Pathway in
Haloarcula
Species
Authors: Johnsen Ulrike , Sutter Jan-Moritz , Reinhardt Andreas , Pickl Andreas , Wang Rui , Xiang Hua , Schönheit Peter
Published: November 2019

The utilization and degradation of
d
-ribose in archaea, the third domain of life, have not been analyzed so far. We show that
Haloarcula
species utilize
d
-ribose, which is degraded to α-ketoglutarate via a novel oxidative pathway. Evidence is presented that the oxidative degradation of
d
-ribose involves novel promiscuous enzymes, pentose dehydrogenase and pentonolactonase, and a novel sugar acid dehydratase highly specific for ribonate. This is the first report of an oxidative degradation pathway of
d
-ribose in archaea, which differs from the canonical nonoxidative pathway of
d
-ribose degradation reported for most bacteria. The data contribute to our understanding of the unusual sugar degradation pathways and enzymes in archaea.
Establishment of a Highly Sensitive Assay for Detection of Hepatitis E Virus-Specific Immunoglobulins
Authors: Bohm Katrin , Strömpl Julia , Krumbholz Andi , Zell Roland , Krause Gérard , Sievers Claudia
Published: November 2019

Hepatitis E, a liver disease caused by infection with the hepatitis E virus (HEV), is a worldwide emerging disease. The diagnosis is based on the detection of viral RNA and of HEV-specific immunoglobulins (Ig). For the latter, various assays are commercially available but still lack harmonization. In this study, a Luminex-based multiplex serological assay was established that measures the presence of total IgG, IgA, and IgM antibodies, targeting a short peptide derived from the viral E2 protein.
The Whole-Genome Sequence of Plasmid-Bearing Staphylococcus argenteus Strain B3-25B from Retail Beef Liver Encodes the Type VII Secretion System and Several Virulence Factors
Authors: Neyaz Leena , Karki Anand B. , Fakhr Mohamed K.
Published: November 2019

The whole-genome sequence of
Staphylococcus argenteus
strain B3-25B, isolated from retail beef liver, comprises a circular chromosome (2,676,222 bp) and a single plasmid (21,570 bp). The chromosome harbors genes encoding the type VII secretion system and several virulence factors.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Janthinobacterium
sp. Strain SLB01, Isolated from the Diseased Sponge
Lubomirskia baicalensis
Authors: Petrushin Ivan S. , Belikov Sergei I. , Chernogor Lubov I.
Published: November 2019

The draft genome sequence of
Janthinobacterium
sp. strain SLB01, a violacein-producing psychrotolerant bacterium isolated from the diseased sponge
Lubomirskia baicalensis
, was determined. We identified five genes encoding VioA, VioB, VioC, VioD, and VioE proteins related to violacein biosynthesis that were like those identified in published
Janthinobacterium lividum
strains MTR and RIT308.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Pseudoalteromonas
sp. Strain A25, a Bacterium with Algicidal Activity against Diatoms
Authors: Kitaguchi Hirotaka , Masu Nanase , Fujii Keiko , Mitsutani Atsushi
Published: November 2019

Pseudoalteromonas
sp. strain A25 is a marine bacterium that reveals strong algicidal activity against diatoms. We report the draft genome sequence for this strain, which consists of two contigs (3,887,303 bp and 850,536 bp). Further genomic analysis might facilitate an understanding of the algicidal mechanisms of this strain.
Telehealth spirometry for children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Logie Karla , Welsh Liam , Ranganathan Sarath C
Published: November 2019

Aim

We assessed the feasibility of telehealth spirometry assessments for children with cystic fibrosis (CF) living in a regional setting.

Method

Patients with acceptable computer hardware at home were provided with a SpiroUSB (Vyaire) spirometer. Spirometry was performed during ‘home admissions’ or for ongoing home monitoring in children living outside metropolitan Melbourne. At the end of the session, the family forwarded the data to the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne.

Results

Twenty-two patients aged 7 to 17 years participated, with spirometry successful in 55 of 59 (93%) attempted sessions according to American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society criteria. The median distance between the subject’s home and the hospital was 238 km (range 62–537 km) which equated to a travel time saving of 5 hours and 34 min per hospital visit.

Conclusion

Home-based telehealth spirometry is feasible in children with CF and can support the CF team during home-based admissions and for ongoing outpatient monitoring.
Association of macular disease with long-term use of pentosan polysulfate sodium: findings from a US cohort
Authors: Jain Nieraj , Li Alexa L , Yu Yinxi , VanderBeek Brian L
Published: November 2019

Background/Aims

A series at a single clinical centre recently demonstrated an association between the interstitial cystitis drug pentosan polysulfate sodium (PPS) and a vision-threatening pigmentary maculopathy. The aim of this study was to determine if an association exists between PPS use and macular disease in a large national cohort.

Methods

A retrospective, matched cohort study using data from a large US medical claims database from 2002 to 2016 was performed. A total of 3012 and 1604 PPS users were compared with 15 060 and 8017 matched controls at 5 and 7 years, respectively. The primary outcome measures included (1) any new diagnosis of a hereditary or secondary pigmentary maculopathy (atypical maculopathy outcome), and (2) any new diagnosis of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) or drusen in addition to the aforementioned diagnoses (atypical maculopathy+AMD outcome).

Results

At the 5-year and 7-year follow-up, 9 (0.3%) and 10 (0.6%) PPS patients progressed to the atypical maculopathy outcome compared with 32 (0.2%) and 25 (0.3%) control patients, respectively. 103 (3.4%) and 87 (5.4%) PPS patients developed the atypical maculopathy+AMD outcome compared with 440 (2.9%) and 328 (4.1%) control patients at 5 and 7 years, respectively. At 5 years, multivariate analysis showed no significant association (p>0.13). At 7 years, PPS users had significantly increased odds of having the atypical maculopathy+AMD outcome (OR=1.41, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.83, p=0.009).

Conclusions

PPS exposure was associated with a new diagnosis of macular disease at the 7-year follow-up in a large national cohort.
Geospatial assessment of the voluntary medical male circumcision programme in Tanzania, 2011–2016
Authors: Kim Hana , Branscum Adam , Miller F DeWolfe , Cuadros Diego F
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Tanzania is one of the 14 priority countries in sub-Saharan Africa scaling up voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) for HIV prevention. In this study, we assessed the progress of VMMC by evaluating changes in the spatial structure of male circumcision (MC) prevalence and identifying age groups with low MC uptake.

Methods

We use data from two waves of the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) conducted in Tanzania in 2011–2012 and 2015–2016. MC incidence rate was estimated using a method developed to calculate incidence rates from two successive cross-sectional surveys. Continuous surface maps of MC prevalence were generated for both DHS waves and compared with identified areas with high MC prevalence changes and high density of uncircumcised males.

Results

National MC prevalence in Tanzania increased from 73.5% in 2011–2012 to 80.0% in 2015–2016. The estimated national MC incidence rate was 4.6 circumcisions per 100 person-years (py). The lowest circumcision rate was observed in males aged 20–24 years, with 0.61 circumcisions per 100 py. An estimated 1 567 253 males aged 15–49 years residing in low-MC prevalence areas were uncircumcised in 2015–2016.

Conclusion

Tanzania has shown substantial progress in the implementation of VMMC. However, extensive spatial variation of MC prevalence still exists in the country, with some areas having an MC prevalence <60%. Here, we identified locations where VMMC needs to be intensified to reach the ~1.5 million uncircumcised males age 15–49 living in these low-MC areas, particularly for men aged 20–34.
Keep the fire burning: a survey study on the role of personal resources for work engagement and burnout in medical residents and specialists in the Netherlands
Authors: Solms Lara , van Vianen Annelies E M , Theeboom Tim , Koen Jessie , de Pagter Anne P J , de Hoog Matthijs
Published: November 2019

Objectives

The high prevalence of burnout among medical residents and specialists raises concerns about the stressful demands in healthcare. This study investigated which job demands and job resources and personal resources are associated with work engagement and burnout and whether the effects of these demands and resources differ for medical residents and specialists.

Design

In a survey study among residents and specialists, we assessed job demands, job resources, personal resources, work engagement and burnout symptoms using validated questionnaires (January to December 2017). Results were analysed using multivariate generalised linear model, ordinary least squares regression analyses and path analyses.

Setting

Five academic and general hospitals in the Netherlands.

Participants

A total number of 124 residents and 69 specialists participated in this study. Participants worked in the fields of pediatrics, internal medicine and neurology.

Results

The associations of job and personal resources with burnout and work engagement differed for residents and specialists. Psychological capital was associated with burnout only for specialists (b=−0.58, p<0.001), whereas psychological flexibility was associated with burnout only for residents (b=−0.31, p<0.001). Colleague support (b=0.49, p<0.001) and self-compassion (b=−0.33, p=0.004) were associated with work engagement only for specialists.

Conclusion

This study suggests that particularly personal resources safeguard the work engagement and lessen the risk of burnout of residents and specialists. Both residents and specialists benefit from psychological capital to maintain optimal functioning. In addition, residents benefit from psychological flexibility, while specialists benefit from colleague support. Personal resources seem important protective factors for physicians’ work engagement and well-being. When promoting physician well-being, a one-size-fits-all approach might not be effective but, instead, interventions should be tailored to the specific needs of specialists and residents.
Clot regression effects of rivaroxaban in the treatment of venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer (CRERIT-VTE cancer): study protocol
Authors: Takai Shigeki , Nakanishi Naohiko , Yokota Isao , Imai Kojiro , Yamada Ayumu , Kawasaki Takanori , Okada Takashi , Sawada Takahisa , Fujita Hiroshi , Matoba Satoaki
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Anticoagulant therapy in patients with cancer with venous thromboembolism (VTE) increases the risk of both VTE recurrence and haemorrhagic complication. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have been shown to be effective in preventing VTE recurrence, and comparable to conventional therapy in preventing VTE recurrence in patients with advanced cancer. Rivaroxaban is a DOAC that causes thrombus regression, possibly through a profibrinolytic effect. Thrombus regression with initial treatment is essential for VTE patients. However, the thrombolytic effect of DOAC for VTE patients with cancer has not been fully examined. Therefore, in this study, we investigate the thrombolytic effect of rivaroxaban in patients with cancer who develop VTE.

Methods and analysis

This study is a single-arm, open-label, prospective interventional study. Forty patients aged from 20 to 75 years old at the time of consent who have been diagnosed with acute VTE and have active cancer are included. Patients are excluded if they have received thrombolytic therapy, have creatinine clearance of less than 30 mL/min, have expected a life expectancy of less than 6 months or have deep vein thrombosis limited to the distal lower leg. Eligible patients receive standard treatment with rivaroxaban (15 mg two times daily for 3 weeks, followed by 15 mg QD). The primary study endpoint is clot regression ratio as evaluated by contrast-enhanced CT imaging. CT imaging is obtained at baseline, 21±4 and 90±14 days after the start of rivaroxaban treatment. Secondary endpoints are the recurrence of VTE and haemorrhagic complications.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the institutional review board of the Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine. Study results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

UMIN000027793
Medication safety problems priorities in community pharmacy in Saudi Arabia: a multi-stakeholder Delphi study using the human factors framework
Authors: Al Juffali Lobna Abdullah , Knapp Peter , Al-Aqeel Sinaa , Watson Margaret C
Published: November 2019

Aim

To achieve multi-stakeholder consensus and prioritisation of medication safety problems in community pharmacies in Saudi Arabia.

Design and intervention

A theoretically-underpinned, three-round Delphi study.

Setting

Saudi Arabia.

Participants

Patients and public (pharmacy users), pharmacy-related professionals (policymakers, academics, medication safety officers and pharmacy owners) and community pharmacists.

Methods

Round 1 comprised 84 statements derived from a qualitative study. The items were grouped according to the Human Factors Framework (HFF). Rounds 1 and 2 aimed to achieve consensus, 6-point Likert response scale (agreement/disagreement) was used. Round 3 aimed to prioritise the items for which consensus was achieved in Rounds 1 and 2 indicated on a 5-point scale (very important to unimportant). Consensus was predefined as any item that achieved ≥70%.

Results

The number of respondents in Rounds 1, 2 and 3 was 161, 120 and 112, respectively. In all three rounds, the majority of respondents were pharmacy users (Round 1 77% (n=124), Round 2 74% (n=89), Round 3 72% (n=81)). Consensus was achieved with 28/84 items. The top five medication safety priorities were: lack of pharmacy facilities such as counselling area, lack of communication between pharmacists and physicians, lack of patient databases, lack of post-registration pharmacist education and pharmacists’ long working hours. The professional and pharmacy user groups achieved consensus on similar items through different categories of the HFFs. Community pharmacists had the highest percentage of consensus among the three groups for factors related to work, such as high workload and low salaries.

Conclusion

This multi-stakeholder study used the HFF to identify and prioritise the main medication safety challenges facing community pharmacy in Saudi Arabia. It indicates the need for changes to practice and policy and further research to address these priorities and promote medication safety at an individual, pharmacy and population level.
Do bedside whiteboards enhance communication in hospitals? An exploratory multimethod study of patient and nurse perspectives
Authors: Goyal Anupama , Glanzman Hanna , Quinn Martha , Tur Komalpreet , Singh Sweta , Winter Suzanne , Snyder Ashley , Chopra Vineet
Published: November 2019

Objective

To understand patient and nurse views on usability, design, content, barriers and facilitators of hospital whiteboard utilisation in patient rooms.

Design

Multimethods study.

Setting

Adult medical-surgical units at a quaternary care academic centre.

Participants

Four hundred and thirty-eight adult patients admitted to inpatient units participated in bedside surveys. Two focus groups with a total of 13 nurses responsible for updating and maintaining the whiteboards were conducted.

Results

Most survey respondents were male (55%), ≥51 years of age (69%) and admitted to the hospital ≤4 times in the past 12 months (90%). Over 95% of patients found the whiteboard helpful and 92% read the information on the whiteboard frequently. Patients stated that nurses, not doctors, were the most frequent user of whiteboards (93% vs 9.4%, p<0.001, respectively). Patients indicated that the name of the team members (95%), current date (87%), upcoming tests/procedures (80%) and goals of care (63%) were most useful. While 60% of patients were aware that they could use the whiteboard for questions/comments for providers, those with ≥5 admissions in the past 12 months were significantly more likely to be aware of this aspect (p<0.001). In focus groups, nurses reported they maintained the content on the boards and cited lack of access to clinical information and limited use by doctors as barriers. Nurses suggested creating a curriculum to orient patients to whiteboards on admission, and educational programmes for physicians to increase whiteboard utilisation.

Conclusion

Bedside whiteboards are highly prevalent in hospitals. Orienting patients and their families to their purpose, encouraging daily use of the medium and nurse–physician engagement around this tool may help facilitate communication and information sharing.
Quality of reporting in abstracts of RCTs published in emergency medicine journals: a systematic survey of the literature suggests we can do better
Authors: Germini Federico , Marcucci Maura , Fedele Marta , Galli Maria Giulia , Heath Tevin , Mbuagbaw Lawrence , Salvatori Valentina , Veronese Giacomo , Worster Andrew , Thabane Lehana
Published: November 2019

Objective

We investigated the association between the publication of the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials extension for abstracts (CONSORT-EA) and other variables of interest on the quality of reporting of abstracts of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in emergency medicine (EM) journals.

Methods

We performed a survey of the literature, comparing the quality of reporting before (2005–2007) with after (2014–2015) the publication of the dedicated CONSORT-EA in 2008. The quality of reporting was measured as the sum of items of the CONSORT-EA checklist reported in each abstract, ranging from 0 to 15. The main explanatory variable was the period of publication: pre-CONSORT-EA versus post-CONSORT-EA public. Other explanatory variables were journal’s endorsement of the CONSORT statement, number of centres participating in the study, study’s sample size, type of intervention, significance of results, source of funding and study setting. We analysed the data using generalised estimation equations, performing a univariate and a multivariable analysis.

Results

We retrieved 844 articles, and randomly selected 60 per period for review, after stratifying for journal. The mean (SD) number of items reported was 6.4 (1.9) in the period before and 6.9 (1.8) in the period after the publication of the CONSORT-EA, with an adjusted mean difference (aMD) of 0.47 (95% CI −0.13 to 1.06). Abstracts of trials of pharmacological interventions had a significantly larger mean number of reported items than those of trials of non-pharmacological interventions (aMD 1.59; 95% CI 0.94 to 2.24).

Conclusions

The quality of reporting in abstracts of RCTs published in EM journals is low and was not significantly impacted by the publication of a dedicated CONSORT-EA.
Thromboprophylaxis in lower limb immobilisation after injury (TiLLI)
Authors: Horner Daniel , Goodacre Steve , Pandor Abdullah , Nokes Timothy , Keenan Jonathan , Hunt Beverley , Davis Sarah , Stevens John W , Hogg Kerstin
Published: November 2019

Venous thromboembolic disease is a major global cause of morbidity and mortality. An estimated 10 million episodes are diagnosed yearly; over half of these episodes are provoked by hospital admission/procedures and result in significant loss of disability adjusted life years. Temporary lower limb immobilisation after injury is a significant contributor to the overall burden of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Existing evidence suggests that pharmacological prophylaxis could reduce overall VTE event rates in these patients, but the proportional reduction ofsymptomaticevents remains unclear. Recent studies have used different pharmacological agents, dosing regimens and outcome measures. Consequently, there is wide variation in thromboprophylaxis strategies, and international guidelines continue to offer conflicting advice for clinicians. In this review, we provide a summary of recent evidence assessing both the clinical and cost effectiveness of thromboprophylaxis in patients with temporary immobilisation after injury. We also examine the evidence supporting stratified thromboprophylaxis and the validity of widely used risk assessment methods.
Investigating young adults’ mental health and early working life trajectories from a life course perspective: the role of transitions
Authors: Bültmann Ute , Arends Iris , Veldman Karin , McLeod Christopher B. , van Zon Sander K.R. , Amick III Benjamin C.
Published: November 2019

Background

Many young adults leave the labour market because of mental health problems or never really enter it, through early moves onto disability benefits. Across many countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, between 30% and 50% of all new disability benefit claims are due to mental health problems; among young adults this moves up to 50%–80%.

Outline

We propose a research agenda focused on transitions in building young adults’ mental health and early working life trajectories, considering varying views for subgroups of a society. First, we briefly review five transition characteristics, then we elaborate a research agenda with specific research questions.

Research agenda

Our research agenda focuses on transitions as processes, in time and place and as sensitive periods, when examining young adults’ mental health and early working life trajectories from a life course perspective. As more and more childhood and adolescent cohorts mature and facilitate research on later life labour market, work and health outcomes, transition research can help guide policy and practice interventions.

Future cross-disciplinary research

In view of the many challenges young adults face when entering the changing world of work and labour markets, future research on transitions in young adults related to their mental health and early working life trajectories will provide ample opportunities for collaborative cross-disciplinary research and stimulate debate on this important challenge.
Caregiver Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) profiles in patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty and spine surgery: a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Kent Michael L , Jannace Kalyn , Highland Krista B , Dimarzio Maria , Tran Julie , Gonzalez Sara , Buckenmaier Chester C
Published: November 2019

Background/Objective

The role of caregiver psychosocial characteristics and their relation to postsurgical caregiving capability remains unclear. The objective of this study was to explore caregiver psychosocial variables following surgery of patients undergoing total joint arthroplasty and spine surgery.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted where questionnaires were administered to caregivers preoperatively and 1 week/2 weeks/1 month postoperatively. Measures included demographics, caregiver activities and National Institutes of Health Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (NIH PROMIS) item banks. Bivariate analysis assessed differences between participants reporting baseline pain and those reporting no baseline pain. Generalized estimating equation models examined PROMIS T-scores across time.

Results

190 caregivers were enrolled and completed surveys. 18% of caregivers reported experiencing a painful condition where they experienced pain during most days of the week. Across all time points, the majority of caregivers reported no worse than mild impairment across PROMIS scores. Compared with baseline, caregivers reported lower PROMIS satisfaction with social roles across all postoperative time points (p<0.001) and higher depression and fatigue at postoperative day 7 (p=0.002) and 14 (p=0.006). PROMIS sleep disturbance was only higher at day 7 (p=0.01). Caregivers reporting a baseline pain condition reported PROMIS scores indicative of higher anxiety (p=0.02), depression (p=0.003), sleep disturbances (p<0.001) and fatigue (p<0.001) and lower levels of satisfaction with social roles (p=0.002) compared with those caregivers without baseline pain.

Conclusion

While there were transient worsening in PROMIS scores, it is unclear whether these were clinically meaningful. Postsurgical caregivers reporting baseline pain were characterized by worse functioning across all PROMIS scales.
The effect of preventive exercise on the neuroprotection in 6-hydroxydopamine-lesioned rat brain
Authors: Rezaee Zeinab , Marandi Sayed Mohammad , Alaei Hojjatallah , Esfarjani Fahimeh
Published: November 2019

Parkinson’s disease is characterized by neurodegeneration and learning deficiency. Physical exercise can alleviate these symptoms by increasing the expression of some effective and relevant factors. The preventive effect of 16-week treadmill running in a rat model of Parkinson’s disease, before 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) induction, was assessed. Experimental groups consisted of sedentary (SED), SED+6-OHDA, exercised (EX), and EX+6-OHDA rats. Forty-eight hours after the last session of exercise, 6-OHDA was injected into the medial forebrain bundle (MFB). One week after the injection, behavioral tests, including spatial learning and memory, were assessed through Morris water maze (MWM) and apomorphine-induced rotation. Three weeks after the injection, mRNA expression and protein levels of the transcriptional co-activator peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor-γ co-activator-1α (PGC-1α), fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) were measured in the striatum and the hippocampus of rats by applying real-time PCR and Western blotting. The findings indicate that exposure to 6-OHDA leads to impairments in behavioral and molecular functions. Exercise training prevents and reduces the symptoms caused by dopamine toxins. The results suggest that treadmill running can exert neuroprotective and have preventive effects to reduce Parkinson’s disease symptoms.

Novelty Parkinson’s disease impairs spatial learning and memory. Parkinson’s disease reduced levels of PGC-1α, FNDC5, and BDNF and increased neurodegeneration in the striatum and the hippocampus. Treadmill running before disease attenuated 6-OHDA-induced memory deficit and elevated neuroprotection. Exercise has multiple effects on memory and biochemical factors.
Systematic approach to assessing the applicability of fly-ash-based geopolymer for clay stabilization
Authors: Abdullah Hayder H. , Shahin Mohamed A. , Walske Megan L. , Karrech Ali
Published: November 2019

Traditional soil stabilization by chemical additives such as cement and lime is a well-established technique for ground improvement of problematic soils. However, with the advantage of lower carbon emission and energy consumption, fly-ash-based geopolymer has recently become an attractive alternative to traditional stabilizers. Nevertheless, the literature lacks systemic approaches that assist engineers to apply this promising binder for soil stabilization, including the proper dosages required for an effective treatment. This paper introduces a systematic approach to assess the applicability of fly-ash-based geopolymer for stabilization of clay soils, through a comprehensive experimental program where engineered and natural clays were examined and evaluated, including soil compaction, plasticity, compressive strength, durability, pH level, and impact of pulverization. The results revealed several factors that influence the level of enhancement of geopolymer-treated clays, including the soil mineralogy, plasticity–activity properties, geopolymer concentration, curing time, and pulverization.
Hippophae rhamnoides L. polysaccharide enhances antioxidant enzyme activity, cytokine level, and related mRNA expression in intestinal porcine epithelial cells
Authors: Zhao Lei , Li Mu-Yang , Su Shuai , Geng Ting-Ting , Sun Hui
Published: November 2019

Hippophae rhamnoides L. polysaccharide (HRP) has antioxidant and immunomodulatory actions. It has been reported that HRP can reduce the release of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of HRP on immunomodulatory and antioxidant activity in intestinal porcine jejunum epithelial (IPEC-J2) cells. Effective conditions of HRP (0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 μg mL−1) were evaluated by pretreatment of IPEC-J2 cells for 24 h. The results showed that pretreatment with 0–600 μg mL−1 of HRP enhanced cell survival rate, while more than 600 μg mL−1 posed a threat to IPEC-J2 cell viability and lowered cell survival rate (p < 0.05). In addition, results revealed that, compared with the control group, the treatment of IPEC-J2 cells with 200–600 μg mL−1 of HRP for 24 h decreased ROS, malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl levels, and cell apoptosis. Meanwhile, the levels of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, interleukin-1 beta, interleukin-2, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, tumour necrosis factor-alpha were elevated, and enhanced relative mRNA levels were also shown in the IPEC-J2 cells. Both the contents of immunoglobulin M, immunoglobulin A, and immunoglobulin G elevated with the increases of HRP concentration (200, 400, and 600 μg mL−1), and an increase of catalase relative mRNA levels were also observed in IPEC-J2 cells. Data indicated that 600 μg mL−1 of HRP had a potent protective effect on IPEC-J2 cells. Taken together, these results suggested that HRP was effective in regulating intestinal epithelial cells in piglets.
Effect of plant-derived smoke water and potassium nitrate on germination of understory boreal forest plants
Authors: Mackenzie Dean D. , Naeth M. Anne
Published: November 2019

This experiment assessed the effects of plant-derived smoke water, potassium nitrate (KNO3), and their combined effect on germination of cold-stratified and non-stratified seed from 18 native boreal forest plant species. Seeds were treated with smoke water diluted to 1:20, 0.1% KNO3, and smoke water + KNO3. Nine species responded positively to smoke water; these responses were dependent on the type of stratification, and three of these species only had a positive response to smoke water + KNO3solution. Five species responded positively to KNO3and four of those were associated with smoke water + KNO3solution. Smoke water induced germination of several species, but only for seeds that had been previously cold-stratified. Vaccinium myrtilloides Michx. had the largest increase in germination using smoke water and the most reduced germination using KNO3. The interactions between smoke water, KNO3, and stratified seeds are not well understood. The effects and applications of smoke water and KNO3(or other nitrogen sources) should be further researched to determine alternative approaches to restoration of disturbed boreal forest ecosystems.
GENDER DIVERSITY AND INNOVATION PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCE FROM R&D WORKFORCE IN SWEDEN
Authors: WIKHAMN WAJDA , WIKHAMN BJÖRN REMNELAND
Published: November 2019

Compared to gender diversity in top management teams (TMTs) and board of directions, gender diversity in research and development (R&D) organisations, and its relationship with firm’s innovation performance, has received little attention. The aim of this paper is to investigate this relationship. Using a longitudinal design with five samples from Sweden the paper explores how gender diversity in R&D units relates to innovation-related employee productivity (measured in monetary value). Both linear and non-linear relationships are tested. The results suggest gender diversity has a non-linear, U-shape, relationship with employee innovation-related productivity, supporting the value-in-diversity perspective.
AGILITY AND THE ROLE OF PROJECT — INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR INNOVATION PROJECT PERFORMANCE
Authors: LILL PHILIPP A. , WALD ANDREAS , GLEICH RONALD
Published: November 2019

As a reaction to the rapidly changing environment, organisations increasingly use agile project management (APM) methods to develop innovation. The associated process changes necessitate the adaption of organisational structures and control systems. This study draws on Simon’s Levers-of-Control framework (LOC) to explore the impact of different control levers on innovation project performance. Based on a survey of 316 project managers and product owners, the results suggest that the use of interactive project control systems and project-internal belief systems has a positive impact on the innovation outcome, regardless of the degree of agility of the project. Furthermore, we reveal that a strong project environment leads to increased use of control mechanisms on the project level and has a conducive impact on innovation project performance. The study is among the first to apply the LOC on the project level and integrate it into the agile context.
Flexor Subzone II A–D Range of Motion Progression during Healing on a No-Splint, No-Tenodesis Protection, Immediate Full Composite Extension Regimen
Authors: Henry Mark , Lundy Forrest H.
Published: November 2019

Background: The objective was to study the hypotheses that an advanced zone II flexor tendon rehabilitation protocol would avoid rupture, achieve a high range of excursion, and minimize interphalangeal contracture during both the early phases and at the conclusion of healing. We also proposed the null hypothesis of no difference between any two of the zone II subdivisions.

Methods: Fifty-one consecutive adult patients with zone II flexor tendon repairs of a single finger were retrospectively evaluated on an active contraction rehabilitation protocol with no splint, no tenodesis protection, and immediate full composite extension. There were 38 males and 13 females with a mean age of 39 years (range 18–69) involving 15 index, 7 long, 6 ring, and 23 small fingers. Repairs were located in flexor subzone IIA for 8 fingers; subzone IIB, 14; subzone IIC, 19; and subzone IID, 10. Differences in outcome between any two subzones were compared by T-test with p < 0.05.

Results: Mean active arcs of motion in degrees at 3 weeks post repair were PIP 1-93; DIP 0-44; and total active motion (TAM) 221. At 6 weeks PIP 2–98; DIP 1–51; and TAM 236. At 10–12 weeks PIP 1–101; DIP 1–56; and TAM 246. Final TAM by flexor subzone IIA was 243; IIB, 251; IIC, 246; and IID, 246. There were no significant differences between any two subzones. Mean final DASH score was 5. There were no ruptures.

Conclusions: The results support the hypotheses. Outcomes of the therapy protocol demonstrated the lack of interphalangeal joint flexion contractures, high range of total active motion achieved early and sustained, and no ruptures. No differences were identified between and two of the flexor subzones.
AMP-Activated Protein Kinase: Friend or Foe in Cancer?
Authors: Vara-Ciruelos Diana , Dandapani Madhumita , Hardie D. Grahame
Published: November 2019

The AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is activated by energy stress and restores homeostasis by switching on catabolism, while switching off cell growth and proliferation. Findings that AMPK acts downstream of the tumor suppressor LKB1 have suggested that AMPK might also suppress tumorigenesis. In mouse models of B and T cell lymphoma in which genetic loss of AMPK occurred before tumor initiation, tumorigenesis was accelerated, confirming that AMPK has tumor-suppressor functions. However, when loss of AMPK in a T cell lymphoma model occurred after tumor initiation, or simultaneously with tumor initiation in a lung cancer model, the disease was ameliorated. Thus, once tumorigenesis has occurred, AMPK switches from tumor suppression to tumor promotion. Analysis of alterations in AMPK genes in human cancers suggests similar dichotomies, with some genes being frequently amplified while others are mutated. Overall, while AMPK-activating drugs might be effective in preventing cancer, in some cases AMPK inhibitors might be required to treat it.
Cardiovascular Disease, Aging, and Clonal Hematopoiesis
Authors: Evans Megan A. , Sano Soichi , Walsh Kenneth
Published: November 2019

Traditional risk factors are incompletely predictive of cardiovascular disease development, a leading cause of death in the elderly. Recent epidemiological studies have shown that human aging is associated with an increased frequency of somatic mutations in the hematopoietic system, which provide a competitive advantage to a mutant cell, thus allowing for its clonal expansion, a phenomenon known as clonal hematopoiesis. Unexpectedly, these mutations have been associated with a higher incidence of cardiovascular disease, suggesting a previously unrecognized connection between somatic mutations in hematopoietic cells and cardiovascular disease. Here, we provide an up-to-date review of clonal hematopoiesis and its association with aging and cardiovascular disease. We also give a detailed report of the experimental studies that have been instrumental in understanding the relationship between clonal hematopoiesis and cardiovascular disease and have shed light on the mechanisms by which hematopoietic somatic mutations contribute to disease pathology.
Understanding Multilateral Institutions in Easy and Hard Times
Authors: Keohane Robert O.
Published: November 2019

In my scholarly work, I have sought to understand institutionalized multilateral cooperation in world politics, and the context of such cooperation: extensive economic interdependence, or globalization. What are the political implications of economic interdependence? Under what conditions are states facing globalization willing to share their authority with multilateral organizations over whose policies they exert only indirect and collective influence? I have developed interpretive frameworks and some theory to address these issues. In other work, I have helped to develop precepts for qualitative research design, and I have explored some normative issues associated with institutional accountability and legitimacy. My work on multilateral institutions, which was done in a period of increasing multilateral cooperation, is challenged by increasing inequality in capitalist democracies, financial crisis, and nationalist forms of populism. I am now seeking to understand the international and comparative politics of climate change, which I regard as an existential crisis.
Extracellular vesicles as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cancer
Authors: Urabe Fumihiko , Kosaka Nobuyoshi , Ito Kagenori , Kimura Takahiro , Egawa Shin , Ochiya Takahiro
Published: November 2019

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small lipid membrane vesicles that are secreted from almost all kinds of cells into the extracellular space. EVs are widely accepted to be involved in various cellular processes; in particular, EVs derived from cancer cells have been reported to play important roles in modifying the tumor microenvironment and promoting tumor progression. In addition, EVs derived from cancer cells encapsulate various kinds of tumor-specific molecules, such as proteins and RNAs, which contribute to cancer malignancy. Therefore, the unveiling of the precise mechanism of intercellular communication via EVs in cancer patients will provide a novel strategy for cancer treatment. Furthermore, a focus on the contents of EVs could promote the use of EVs in body fluids as clinically useful diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. In this review, we summarize the current research knowledge on EVs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets and discuss their potential clinical applications.
Long non-coding RNA MALAT1 promotes angiogenesis and immunosuppressive properties of HCC cells by sponging miR-140
Authors: Hou Zhou-Hua , Xu Xu-Wen , Fu Xiao-Yu , Zhou Le-Du , Liu Shui-Ping , Tan De-Ming
Published: November 2019

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent primary liver cancer in adults. Previous studies in our laboratory found that long non-coding RNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) was upregulated in HCC cells, which could affect the metastasis and invasion of HCC. However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Herein, we studied the interaction between MALAT1 and miR-140 on the regulation of angiogenesis and immunosuppressive properties. We revealed that the expression of MALAT1 and VEGF-A was significantly increased in HCC cells. Knockdown of MALAT1 in HCC cells suppressed the production of VEGF-A, impaired the angiogenesis of HUVECs, and facilitated the polarization of macrophage toward the M1 subset. Mechanistically, the interaction between MALAT1 and miR-140 or between miR-140 and VEGF-A was confirmed by multiple assays. Besides, a negative correlation between MALAT1 and miR-140 was found in HCC tissues. Furthermore, miR-140 inhibition significantly increased VEGF-A expression, promoted angiogenesis of HUVECs, and redirected the polarization of macrophages toward the M2 subset. In addition, in vivo studies also verified the regulatory network of the MALAT1/miR-140 axis on VEGF-A in HCC progression. In summary, this study revealed the mechanism that MALAT1 worked as a putative HCC promotor via inhibiting miR-140. Therefore, targeting MALAT1 or miR-140 might alleviate the progression of HCC in the future.
Amphiregulin modulates murine lung recovery and fibroblast function following exposure to agriculture organic dust
Authors: Poole Jill A. , Nordgren Tara M. , Heires Art J. , Nelson Amy J. , Katafiasz Dawn , Bailey Kristina L. , Romberger Debra J.
Published: November 2019

Exposure to agricultural bioaerosols can lead to chronic inflammatory lung diseases. Amphiregulin (AREG) can promote the lung repair process but can also lead to fibrotic remodeling. The objective of this study was to determine the role of AREG in altering recovery from environmental dust exposure in a murine in vivo model and in vitro using cultured human and murine lung fibroblasts. C57BL/6 mice were intranasally exposed to swine confinement facility dust extract (DE) or saline daily for 1 wk or allowed to recover for 3–7 days while being treated with an AREG-neutralizing antibody or recombinant AREG. Treatment with the anti-AREG antibody prevented resolution of DE exposure-induced airway influx of total cells, neutrophils, and macrophages and increased levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and CXCL1. Neutrophils and activated macrophages (CD11c+CD11bhi) persisted after recovery in lung tissues of anti-AREG-treated mice. In murine and human lung fibroblasts, DE induced the release of AREG and inflammatory cytokines. Fibroblast recellularization of primary human lung mesenchymal matrix scaffolds and wound closure was inhibited by DE and enhanced with recombinant AREG alone. AREG treatment rescued the DE-induced inhibitory fibroblast effects. AREG intranasal treatment for 3 days during recovery phase reduced repetitive DE-induced airway inflammatory cell influx and cytokine release. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that inhibition of AREG reduced, whereas AREG supplementation promoted, the airway inflammatory recovery response following environmental bioaerosol exposure, and AREG enhanced fibroblast function, suggesting that AREG could be targeted in agricultural workers repetitively exposed to organic dust environments to potentially prevent and/or reduce disease.