bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monodehydroascorbate Reductase Plays a Role in the Tolerance of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii to Photooxidative Stress
Authors: Yeh Hui-Ling , Lin Tsen-Hung , Chen Chi-Chih , Cheng Tian-Xing , Chang Hsin-Yang , Lee Tse-Min
Published: June 2019

Monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDAR; EC 1.6.5.4) is one of the key enzymes in the conversion of oxidized ascorbate (AsA) back to reduced AsA in plants. This study investigated the role of MDAR in the tolerance of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii P.A. Dangeard to photooxidative stress by overexpression and downregulation of the CrMDAR1 gene. For overexpression of CrMDAR1 driven by a HSP70A:RBCS2 fusion promoter, the cells survived under very high-intensity light stress (VHL, 1,800 μmolï¿½m−2ï¿½s−1), while the survival of CC-400 and vector only control (vector without insert) cells decreased for 1.5 h under VHL stress. VHL increased lipid peroxidation of CC-400 but did not alter lipid peroxidation in CrMDAR1 overexpression lines. Additionally, overexpression of CrMDAR1 showed an increase in viability, CrMDAR1 transcript abundance, enzyme activity and the AsA: dehydroascorbate (DHA) ratio. Next, MDAR was downregulated to examine the essential role of MDAR under high light condition (HL, 1,400 μmolï¿½m−2ï¿½s−1). The CrMDAR1 knockdown amiRNA line exhibited a low MDAR transcript abundance and enzyme activity and the survival decreased under HL conditions. Additionally, HL illumination decreased CrMDAR1 transcript abundance, enzyme activity and AsA:DHA ratio of CrMDAR1-downregulation amiRNA lines. Methyl viologen (an O2ï¿½− generator), H2O2 and NaCl treatment could induce an increase in CrMDAR1 transcript level. It represents reactive oxygen species are one of the factor inducing CrMDAR1 gene expression. In conclusion, MDAR plays a role in the tolerance of Chlamydomonas cells to photooxidative stress.
Sleep and timing of death by suicide among U.S. Veterans 2006–2015: analysis of the American Time Use Survey and the National Violent Death Reporting System
Authors: McCarthy Michaela S , Hoffmire Claire , Brenner Lisa A , Nazem Sarra
Published: June 2019

Study Objectives

Suicide is a top public health priority, and U.S. Veterans are recognized to be at particularly elevated risk. Sleep disturbances are an independent risk factor for suicide; recent empirical data suggest that nocturnal wakefulness may be a key mechanism underlying this association. Given higher rates of sleep disturbances among U.S. Veterans compared with civilians, we examined associations between nocturnal wakefulness and timing of death by suicide in U.S. Veterans and civilians to determine whether temporal suicide patterns differed.

Methods

The American Time Use Survey and the National Violent Death Reporting System were analyzed (2006–2015) to determine whether sleep and temporal suicide patterns differed between age-stratified groups (18–39, 40–64, and ≥65) of U.S. Veterans and civilians. Observed temporal suicide patterns were reported and standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) calculated to compare the percentage of suicides observed with those expected, given the proportion of the population awake, across clock hours.

Results

The raw proportion of Veteran suicides peaks between the hours of 1000–1200; however, the peak prevalence of suicide after accounting for the population awake is between 0000 and 0300 hr (p < .00001, ϕ = .88). The highest SIR was at midnight; U.S. Veterans were eight times more likely to die by suicide than expected given the population awake (SIR = 8.17; 95% CI = 7.45–8.94).

Conclusions

Nocturnal wakefulness is associated with increased risk for suicide in U.S. Veterans. Overall patterns of observed suicides by clock hour were similar between U.S. Veterans and civilians. However, Veteran-specific SIRs suggest differences in magnitude of risk by clock hour across age groups. Future research examining female and Post-9/11 U.S. Veterans is warranted.
IV Chaucer
Authors: Twu Krista Sue-Lo , Simon-Jones Lindsey , Pitard Derrick
Published: June 2019

This chapter has six sections: 1. General; 2. The Canterbury Tales; 3. Troilus and Criseyde; 4. The Legend of Good Women; 5. Other Works; 6. Reception. Sections 1(a) and 1(b) are by Lindsey Simon-Jones; section 1(c) is by Krista Sue-Lo Twu; section 2 is by Krista Sue-Lo Twu; sections 3 and 5 are by Derrick Pitard; sections 4 and 6 are by Lindsey Simon-Jones.
Impact of Scaled up Human Papillomavirus Vaccination and Cervical Screening and the Potential for Global Elimination of Cervical Cancer in 181 Countries, 2020–99: A Modelling Study
Authors: Simms Kate T. , Steinberg Julia , Caruana Michael , Smith Megan A. , Lew Jie-Bin , Soerjomataram Isabelle , Castle Philip E. , Bray Freddie , Canfell Karen
Published: June 2019

(Abstracted from Lancet Oncol 2019;20:394–440)

Of the estimated 530,000 cervical cancer cases diagnosed globally in 2012, 85% occurred in less developed regions. Both cervical screening and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage are much lower in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs), compared with high-income countries.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Combination Letrozole and Clomiphene Citrate or Letrozole Alone for Ovulation Induction in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Mejia Rachel B. , Summers Karen M. , Kresowik Jessica D. , Van Voorhis Bradley J.
Published: June 2019

(Abstracted from Fertil Steril 2019;111(3):571–578)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age and the most common cause of anovulatory infertility. Treatment for infertility in women with PCOS centers around ovulation induction (OI).
Hospital Variation in Utilization and Success of Trial of Labor After a Prior Cesarean
Authors: Xu Xiao , Lee Henry C. , Lin Haiqun , Lundsberg Lisbet S. , Campbell Katherine H. , Lipkind Heather S. , Pettker Christian M. , Illuzzi Jessica L.
Published: June 2019

(Abstracted from Am J Obstet Gynecol 2019;220:98.e1–98.e14)

The rate of cesarean delivery in the United States has increased from 20.7% in 1996 to 31.9% in 2016. Cesarean delivery places the mother and fetus at increased risk of morbidities such as surgical injuries, maternal thromboembolic and anesthesia complications, and neonatal respiratory distress.
In Vitro Biomechanical Validation of a Self-Adaptive Ratchet Growing Rod Construct for Fusionless Scoliosis Correction
Authors: Chen Zong-Xing , Kaliya-Perumal Arun-Kumar , Niu Chi-Chien , Wang Jaw-Lin , Lai Po-Liang
Published: June 2019

Study Design.

In vitro biomechanical evaluation of a novel self-adaptive unidirectional ratchet growing rod (RGR) system.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to propose and biomechanically validate a novel RGR construct in vitro using porcine thoracic spines and calculate the tensile force required to elongate the RGR with springs, without springs, and with soft tissue encapsulation (induced in vivo in rabbits).

Summary of Background Data.

Literature lacks clear consensus regarding the implant of choice for early-onset scoliosis. Multiple systems are currently available, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, studying novel designs that can credibly accommodate growth and curb deformity progression is of principle importance.

Methods.

In vitro biomechanical motion tests were done using six porcine thoracic spines with pedicle screws at T3 and T8. A pure moment of ±5 Nm was loaded in lateral bending (LB) and flexion-extension. Range of motion (ROM) and neutral zone (NZ) of each specimen was determined after connecting the free movable growing rods (FGRs), RGRs, and standard rods (SRs). Tensile tests were done to measure the force required to elongate the RGR with springs, without springs, and with soft tissue encapsulation (induced in vivo in rabbits).

Results.

Global ROM, implanted T3-T8 ROM, and the NZ of specimens with FGRs and RGRs were significantly higher than that with SRs. The RGRs favored unidirectional elongation in both LB and flexion. The tensile forces required for elongating the RGR without springs, with springs, and with soft tissue capsulation (by a scaled unit of 3 mm) were 3 ± 1.3 N, 10.5 ± 0.4 N, and 48.4 ± 14.4 N, respectively.

Conclusion.

The RGR could stabilize and favor unidirectional elongation of the implanted spinal column when appropriate forces were present. There was no device failure as far as we have studied and it is anticipated that, with further safety and feasibility assessment, RGRs could be adapted for clinical use.

Level of Evidence: N/A
Conquering the Craving
Authors: Umhau John C.
Published: June 2019

Largely underutilized in North America, the use of medications to treat alcohol dependence is frequently a successful method of reducing alcohol craving and promoting abstinence. Recovery from alcohol addiction can be a complicated process, requiring nutritional, social, psychological, spiritual, and physical aspects of healing and self-directed behavioral change. Nurses can intervene in alcohol use disorder via screening, referrals, support of medical and behavioral treatments, and spiritual care that emphasizes hope, forgiveness, and relief from shame and guilt.
Offering Culturally Congruent Christian Care
Authors: Gunn Jennie , Bydalek Katherine , Rikabi Gulenia , Hammonds Linda Sue , Hebert Warren , Hughes Cathy , Lincoln Beth
Published: June 2019

Nurses provide care for people of many cultures. Understanding the patient's culture and incorporating cultural beliefs and practices into care are important to the patient's holistic well-being. Cultural and professional awareness creates culturally congruent care. Biblical teachings remind us to love one another; laws require culturally appropriate care, and nursing theory lays the path for understanding. The purpose of this article is to present a Christian view of caring, the theoretical and ethical underpinnings of cultural care, and the organizational and legal aspects of doing what is right.
The Association Between Mercury Exposure and Atopic Dermatitis in Early Childhood
Authors: Shin Jiyoung , Kim Byung-Mi , Ha Mina , Park Hye-sook , Hong Yun-Chul , Kim Yangho , Hyun Kwon Jung , Ha Eun-Hee
Published: June 2019

Background:

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory skin disease. Although mercury has been suggested as a risk factor, the underlying mechanism and the relationship between mercury and atopic dermatitis remains unclear. The objective of the present study was to investigate the relationship between mercury exposure and the presence of atopic dermatitis in early childhood.

Methods:

This study is part of the prospective Mothers and Children’s Environmental Health cohort study. A total of 1,751 pregnant women were enrolled in Mothers and Children’s Environmental Health. After delivery, children were followed up. Blood samples were collected and mothers were asked about the presence of atopic dermatitis in their children via a questionnaire at 6, 12, 24, 36, and 60 months of age.

Results:

After excluding participants who did not meet the inclusion criteria, a total of 1,061 mother-children pairs were included in the analysis. The geometric mean of mercury concentrations in cord blood was 5.1 µg/L. In adjusted models, cord blood mercury exposure (odds ratio [OR] = 1.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.0, 1.2 at 12–24 months) and postnatal mercury exposure (OR = 1.2; 95% CI = 1.0, 1.5 at 24–36 months, OR = 1.4; 95% CI = 1.1, 1.8 at 48–60 months) were associated with the presence of atopic dermatitis in children.

Conclusions:

Postnatal mercury exposure at 24 months of age increases the risk of atopic dermatitis in children.
Exposure to Community Homicide During Pregnancy and Adverse Birth Outcomes
Authors: Goin Dana E. , M. Gomez Anu , Farkas Kriszta , Zimmerman Scott C. , Matthay Ellicott C. , Ahern Jennifer
Published: June 2019

Background:

Community violence is an understudied aspect of social context that may affect risk of preterm birth and small-for-gestational age (SGA).

Methods:

We matched California mothers with live singleton births who were exposed to a homicide in their Census tract of residence in 2007–2011 to unexposed mothers within the same tract. We estimated risk differences with a weighted linear probability model, with weights corresponding to the matched data structure. We estimated the average treatment effect on the treated of homicide exposure on the risk of preterm birth and SGA during the preconception period and first and second trimester.

Results:

We found a small increase in risk of SGA associated with homicide exposure in the first trimester (0.14% [95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.01%, 0.30%]), but not for exposure during the preconception period (−0.01% [95% CI = −0.17%, 0.15%]) or the second trimester (−0.06% [95% CI = −0.23%, 0.11%]). Risk of preterm birth was not affected by homicide exposure. When women were exposed to homicides during all three exposure windows, there was a larger increase in risk of SGA (1.09% [95% CI = 0.15%, 2.03%]) but not preterm birth (0.14% [95% CI = −0.74%, 1.01%]). Exposure to three or more homicides was also associated with greater risk of SGA (0.78% [95% CI = 0.15%, 1.40%]). Negative controls indicated that residual confounding by temporal patterning was unlikely.

Conclusions:

Homicide exposure during early pregnancy is associated with a small increased risk of SGA.
Diagnostic Capability of 3D Peripapillary Retinal Volume for Glaucoma Using Optical Coherence Tomography Customized Software
Authors: Liu Yingna , Jassim Firas , Braaf Boy , Khoueir Ziad , Poon Linda Yi-Chieh , Ben-David Geulah S. , Papadogeorgou Georgia , Tsikata Edem , Simavli Huseyin , Que Christian , Lee Ramon , Shieh Eric , Vakoc Benjamin J. , Bouma Brett E. , de Boer Johannes F. , Chen Teresa C.
Published: June 2019

Précis:

The diagnostic capability of peripapillary retinal volume is similar to peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness for diagnosing glaucoma, but with fewer artifacts.

Purpose:

To compare the diagnostic capability of 3-dimensional peripapillary retinal volume (RV) versus 2-dimensional peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness for open-angle glaucoma.

Patients and Methods:

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted. A total of 180 subjects (113 open-angle glaucoma, 67 normal participants) had spectral domain optical coherence tomography volume scans and RNFL thickness measurements. Peripapillary RV values were calculated using a custom-designed program with 4 circumpapillary annuli (CA): CA1 had circle diameters of 2.5 and 3.5 mm; CA2, 3 and 4 mm; CA3, 3.5 and 4.5 mm; and CA4, 4 and 5 mm. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curves were calculated for global, quadrant, and octant regions for RV (CA1 to CA4) and RNFL thickness. Pair-wise comparisons were conducted. Artifacts rates were determined.

Results:

Mean age was 62.7±15.4 years, and 47.8% (86/180) were male. Among RV measurements, best diagnostic performances were for the smallest 2 annuli for inferior RV (CA1: 0.964, CA2: 0.955). Of the 4 annuli, CA1 had the highest diagnostic performance. Of specific regions, the inferior RV quadrant had the highest performance across CA1 to CA4. Peripapillary RV had similar diagnostic capability compared with RNFL thickness (P>0.05). The artifact rate per B-scan for RV was 6.0%, which was significantly lower compared with 2-dimensional RNFL thickness in the same patient population (32.2%, P<0.0001).

Conclusions:

The diagnostic capability of RV is similar to RNFL thickness for perimetric open-angle glaucoma, but RV had fewer artifacts compared with RNFL thickness.
Opioid use, pain intensity, age, and sleep architecture in patients with fibromyalgia and insomnia
Authors: Curtis Ashley F. , Miller Mary Beth , Rathinakumar Himangshu , Robinson Michael , Staud Roland , Berry Richard B. , McCrae Christina S.
Published: June 2019

Opioid use and sleep disruption are prevalent in fibromyalgia. Yet, the effects of opioids on physiological sleep in fibromyalgia are unclear. This study assessed associations between opioid use/dosage and polysomnographically assessed sleep in patients with fibromyalgia and insomnia (FMI) and examined moderating effects of age and pain. Participants (N = 193, Mage = 51.7, SD = 11.8, range = 18-77) with FMI completed ambulatory polysomnography and 14 daily diaries. Multiple regression determined whether commonly prescribed oral opioid use or dosage (among users) independently predicted or interacted with age/pain intensity to predict sleep, controlling for sleep medication use and apnea hypopnea index. Opioid use predicted greater %stage 2 and lower %slow-wave sleep (%SWS). Opioid use interacted with age to predict greater sleep onset latency (SOL) in middle-aged/older adults. Among opioid users (n = 65, ∼3 years usage), opioid dose (measured in lowest recommended dosage) interacted with age to predict SOL and sleep efficiency; specifically, higher dosage predicted longer SOL and lower sleep efficiency for older, but not middle-aged/younger adults. Opioid dose interacted with pain to predict %SWS and arousal index. Specifically, higher dosage predicted reduced %SWS and higher arousal index for individuals with lower pain, increased %SWS for individuals with higher pain, and did not predict %SWS for patients with average pain. Opioid use/dosage did not predict wake after sleep onset, total sleep time, %stage 1 or %rapid eye movement sleep. Opioid use prompts changes in sleep architecture among individuals with FMI, increasing lighter sleep and reducing SWS. Sleep disruption is exacerbated at higher opioid doses in older adults and patients with low pain.
Pupillary Light Reflex Variability as a Predictor of Clinical Outcomes in Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Ortega-Perez Stefany , Shoyombo Ifeoluwa , Aiyagari Venkatesh , Atem Folefac , Hill Michelle , Stutzman Sonja E. , Olson DaiWai M.
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND: A change in the pupillary light reflex (PLR) is a sensitive indicator for detecting expanding intracranial lesions. Changes in PLR may be a prognostic marker for patients with intracranial lesions. The purpose of this analysis was to explore how PLR readings, size, constriction velocity (CV), dilation velocity (DV), Neurologic Pupil Index (NPi), and latency predict clinical outcome in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. METHODS: This is a secondary analysis of prospectively collected multicenter registry data. The within-subject standard deviation (WSD) of PLR values, NPi, size, CV, DV, and latency were explored as predictors of discharge modified Rankin Scale (mRS) in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhagic. RESULTS: Among 4403 pupillary readings from 82 patients with a diagnosis of subarachnoid hemorrhage, with a mean age of 57.7 years, the admission Glasgow Coma Scale median score was 14 (eye, 4; verbal, 4; motor, 6), and the mRS median was 0 on admission and 4 at discharge. Correlation between standard deviation of PLR values and discharge mRS was moderate and negative (r = −0.3 to −0.47, P < .01). The standard deviations for NPi, size, CV, and DV were significant for predicting discharge mRS (r
2 = 0.23–0.28, P < .05) after controlling for admission Glasgow Coma Scale. CONCLUSION: Patients with higher WSD PLR values showed better outcomes (ie, lower mRS at discharge), suggesting that patients with narrower WSD PLR are at a higher risk for poor outcomes.
An update on risk assessment for familial and hereditary colorectal cancer
Authors: Edelman Emily A. , Reed E. Kate
Published: June 2019

Family history risk assessment can identify individuals at increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) who would benefit from earlier or more frequent CRC screening. Clinicians should evaluate the patient's family history as well as personal history to identify red flags and patterns that may suggest predisposition to CRC and then use that information to stratify risk into average, increased, and high risk categories to inform genetic counseling recommendations and personalized management.
Characterization of serum irisin in patients with severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Chen Shayan , Wang Lina , Gao Xue , Chen Minghui , Zeng Zhaowei , Zhao Lin
Published: June 2019

Background

Irisin, as a novel and versatile hormone secreted by skeletal myocytes and fat tissues, is reported to be involved in inflammation-related diseases; one of the main characteristics of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) is inflammatory responses. This study aims to describe the characteristics of irisin in SAP.

Patients and methods

Here, we enrolled 50 controls, 20 with no acute pancreatitis (AP), 20 AP, and 12 SAP patients, determined white blood cell, blood glucose, C-reactive protein, urine amylase, blood lipase, and serum irisin using an analyzer and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at the indicated time-points, analyzed the correlations of irisin with blood glucose, sex, and age, and then predicted the morality and complications of organ failure and/or exacerbations of comorbidities in SAP by irisin.

Results

The results showed no significant difference in all groups in the clinical parameters (P>0.05), except that white blood cell was significantly higher in no AP, AP, and SAP than the controls (P<0.05). In addition, irisin levels were significantly lower and maintained a steadily low trend in the process of SAP than others (P<0.05), whereas C-reactive protein, urine amylase, and blood lipase in the SAP and AP groups were higher than others and kept decreasing tendency (P<0.01). Moreover, the irisin level in female SAP patients was significantly higher than that in male patients, but no differences were found in the other groups (P>0.05). In addition, the correlation between irisin levels and blood glucose was better in the SAP group than that between irisin levels and age in SAP patients and controls, although a relatively better correlation was found in SAP patients than the controls. Finally, the prognostic significance of mortality and complications of SAP according to irisin levels represented significantly, especially for complications of organ failure and/or exacerbations of comorbidities in female SAP.

Conclusion

Therefore, serum irisin level has unique characteristics and may be an independent factor and useful to predict the mortality, and complications in SAP patients, especially in female SAP patients.
Differences in Pancreatic Cancer Incidence Rates and Temporal Trends Across Asian Subpopulations in California (1988–2015)
Authors: Liu Lihua , Zhang Juanjuan , Deapen Dennis , Stern Mariana C. , Sipin Andrea , Pandol Stephen J. , Setiawan Veronica Wendy
Published: June 2019

Objective

Ethnic disparities in pancreatic cancer (PanCan) incidence exist, but little is known about incidence trends in heterogeneous Asian Americans. We examined PanCan incidence and temporal patterns among detailed ethnic populations, including Asian American subgroups.

Methods

A total of 71,099 invasive exocrine PanCan cases were identified using the California Cancer Registry between 1988 and 2015. Cases were grouped into mutually exclusive groups of non-Hispanic (NH) white, NH black, Hispanic, NH Asian/Pacific Islander (API), and NH American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN). Asians were further identified by specific ethnicity.

Results

The age-adjusted incidence rates (AAIRs, per 100,000) of PanCan varied significantly across racial/ethnic groups, ranging from the highest of 10.4 in NH blacks to 7.6 in NH whites, 7.1 in Hispanics, 6.2 in NH APIs, and to the lowest of 5.2 in NH AIAN. Despite the relatively low rate in the NH APIs, the rates across Asian subgroups varied significantly, with rates similar to NH whites in Japanese (8.1) and Koreans (7.5) to the low rate in South Asians (4.4).

Conclusions

Significant heterogeneity of PanCan incidence in disaggregated Asian Americans is a novel finding. These results fill a gap regarding PanCan burden in Asian Americans and underscore the importance of disaggregating ethnic populations in cancer research.
Performance of a Dual Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Syphilis Rapid Test Compared With Conventional Serological Testing for Syphilis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus in a Laboratory Setting: Results From the Zimbabwe STI Etiology Study
Authors: Rietmeijer Cornelis A. , Mungati More , Kilmarx Peter H. , Barr Beth Tippett , Gonese Elizabeth , Kularatne Ranmini S. , Lewis David A. , Klausner Jeffrey D. , Rodgers Luanne , Handsfield H. Hunter
Published: June 2019

Background

Dual human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/syphilis rapid, point-of-care testing may enhance syphilis screening among high-risk populations, increase case finding, reduce time to treatment, and prevent complications. We assessed the laboratory-based performance of a rapid dual HIV/syphilis test using serum collected from patients enrolled in the Zimbabwe Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) Etiology study.

Methods

Blood specimens were collected from patients presenting with STI syndromes in 6, predominantly urban STI clinics in different regions of Zimbabwe. All specimens were tested at a central research laboratory using the Standard Diagnostics Bioline HIV/Syphilis Duo test. The treponemal syphilis component of the dual rapid test was compared with the Treponema pallidum hemagglutination assay (TPHA) as a gold standard comparator, both alone or in combination with a nontreponemal test, the rapid plasma reagin test. The HIV component of the dual test was compared with a combination of HIV rapid tests conducted at the research laboratory following the Zimbabwe national HIV testing algorithm.

Results

Of 600 men and women enrolled in the study, 436 consented to serological syphilis and HIV testing and had specimens successfully tested by all assays. The treponemal component of the dual test had a sensitivity of 66.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 55.2%–77.2%) and a specificity of 96.4% (95% CI, 94.5%–98.3%) when compared with TPHA; the sensitivity increased to 91.7% (95% CI, 82.6%–99.9%) when both TPHA and rapid plasma reagin were positive. The HIV component of the dual test had a sensitivity of 99.4% (95% CI, 98.4%–99.9%) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI, 99.9%–100%) when compared with the HIV testing algorithm.

Conclusions

Laboratory performance of the SD Bioline HIV/Syphilis Duo test was high for the HIV component of the test. Sensitivity of the treponemal component was lower than reported from most laboratory-based evaluations in the literature. However, sensitivity of the test increased substantially among patients more likely to have active syphilis for which results of both standard treponemal and nontreponemal tests were positive.
Extreme Thumb Losses: Reconstructive Strategies
Authors: del Piñal Francisco
Published: June 2019

Background:

Historically, complex amputations of the thumb have been managed in two stages and often require additional soft-tissue and tendon transfer for successful outcomes. This article provides several novel strategies to address these problems in a single stage using existing muscles, immediate free tissue transfer, and toe transfer.

Methods:

From a personal experience of 482 toe transfers, 24 cases were performed to reconstruct extreme thumb losses. All thumbs were reconstructed in one stage. In only one case, the thumb was reconstructed with a second toe transfer; the remainder had a great toe (or a part of it) used for reconstruction. Suture, advancement, or tendon transfers were performed in all to restore intrinsic muscle function. In 19 cases, the web needed to be resurfaced with free (n = 18) or local (n = 1) flaps.

Results:

All toes and flaps survived. Three patients required a secondary adductorplasty. Six of the seven patients with a metacarpal hand were able to perform tripod pinch. The rest had an average Kapandji opposition score of 7.5. Patients rated their functional and cosmetic result with a visual analogue scale score (ranging from 0 to 10) of 8.5 and 8.4, respectively.

Conclusions:

In proximal thumb amputations, the surgeon should pay attention not only to the obvious thumb loss but also to the first web and the thenar muscles. The author recommends abandoning the standard approach of a pedicled groin flap followed by a toe. Otherwise, the thenar muscles become useless, the first metacarpal contracts, and the need for tendon transfers skyrockets. Further studies are required to compare the outcomes of these results to those of more classic transfers.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDECE:

Therapeutic, IV.
Designing bioinspired coral-like structures using a templateless electropolymerization approach with a high water content
Authors: Thiam Omar , Diouf Alioune , Diouf Djibril , Dieng Samba Yandé , Guittard Frédéric , Darmanin Thierry
Published: June 2019

Here, with the aim of obtaining densely packed porous nanostructures of various shape using templateless electropolymerization in organic solvent (dichloromethane), original thieno[3,4-
b
]thiophene-based monomers with different substituents are studied. First of all, the adding of water in solution has a huge influence on the formation of porous structures because a much higher amount of gas (O
2
and/or H
2
) is released. Rigid substituents such as aromatic groups have a beneficial effect on the formation of nanotubular structures contrary to flexible ones such as alkyl chains. Special results are obtained with the pyrene substituent (Thieno-Pyr). With this monomer, coral-like structures are obtained. These structures are obtained by the formation first on long nanotubular structures and their sagging due to their weight. Then, the released gas is trapped inside these structures leading to huge craters. These exceptional surfaces could be used in the future in various potential applications such as in drug delivery, cell growth, sensors, optical devices or surface adhesion.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Bioinspired materials and surfaces for green science and technology (part 2)’.
Bioinspired conical design for efficient water collection from fog
Authors: Gurera Dev , Bhushan Bharat
Published: June 2019

Nature is known for using conical shapes to transport the collected water from fog for consumption or storage. The curvature gradient of the conical shape creates a Laplace pressure gradient in the water droplets which drives them towards the region of lower curvature. Linear cones with linearly increasing radii have been studied extensively. A smaller tip angle cone transports water droplets farther because of higher Laplace pressure gradient. Whereas a larger tip angle with a larger surface slope transports water droplets because of higher gravitational forces. In this study, for the first time, a nonlinear cone with a concave profile has been designed with small tip angle and nonlinearly increasing radius to maximize water collection.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Bioinspired materials and surfaces for green science and technology (part 2)’.
In vivostructural dynamic analysis of the dragonfly wing: the effect of stigma as its modulator
Authors: Kumar Amit , Kumar Navin , Das Rakesh , Lakhani Piyush , Bhushan Bharat
Published: June 2019

The flapping of the dragonfly forewing underin vivocondition has been analysed by image correlation technique to get an insight of its structural dynamics. The modal parameters such as flapping frequency, natural frequencies, mode shapes and modal strain have been obtained that will facilitate the biomimetic design of wings for micro air vehicles. The stigma, which is a pigmented spot at the leading edge of the wing near the tip having heavier mass, takes an active role in the real-time flapping by shaping its trajectory as eight-shaped, which enhances the drag coefficient and stroke efficiency. The extra mass on it and its removal transformed the trajectory into two different elliptical and oval shapes, respectively, which reduced the drag coefficient and stroke efficiency of the flapping wing by altering the flapping kinematics.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Bioinspired materials and surfaces for green science and technology (part 2)’.
Auxin promotion of seedling growth via ARF5 is dependent on the brassinosteroid-regulated transcription factors BES1 and BEH4
Authors: Galstyan Anahit , Nemhauser Jennifer L
Published: June 2019

Seedlings must continually calibrate their growth in response to the environment. Auxin and brassinosteroids (BRs) are plant hormones that work together to control growth responses during photomorphogenesis. We used our previous analysis of promoter architecture in an auxin and BR target gene to guide our investigation into the broader molecular bases and biological relevance of transcriptional co-regulation by these hormones. We found that the auxin-regulated transcription factor AUXIN RESPONSIVE FACTOR 5 (ARF5) and the brassinosteroid-regulated transcription factor BRI1-EMS-SUPPRESOR 1/BRASSINOZOLERESISTANT 2 (BES1) co-regulated a subset of growth promoting genes via conserved bipartite cis-regulatory elements. Moreover, ARF5 binding to DNA could be enriched by increasing BES1 levels. The evolutionary loss of bipartite elements in promoters results in loss of hormone responsiveness. We also identified another member of the BES1/BZR1 family called BEH4 that acts partially redundantly with BES1 to regulate seedling growth. Double mutant analysis showed that BEH4 and not BZR1 were required alongside BES1 for normal auxin response during early seedling development. We propose that an ARF5-BES1/BEH4 transcriptional module acts to promote growth via modulation of a diverse set of growth-associated genes.
The unjamming transition is distinct from the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Mitchel Jennifer A. , Das Amit , O’Sullivan Michael J. , Stancil Ian T. , DeCamp Stephen J. , Koehler Stephan , Butler James P. , Fredberg Jeffrey J. , Nieto M. Angela , Bi Dapeng , Park Jin-Ah
Published: June 2019

Every organ surface and body cavity is lined by a confluent collective of epithelial cells. In homeostatic circumstances the epithelial collective remains effectively solid-like and sedentary. But during morphogenesis, remodeling or repair, as well as during malignant invasion or metastasis, the epithelial collective becomes fluid-like and migratory1–4. This conversion from sedentary to migratory behavior has traditionally been understood as a manifestation of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) or the partial EMT (pEMT)5–8. However, in certain contexts this conversion has been attributed to the recently discovered unjamming transition (UJT), in which epithelial cells move collectively and cooperatively9–11. UJT and pEMT share certain aspects of collective cellular migration, but the extent to which these processes are distinct, overlapping or perhaps even identical has remained undefined. Using the confluent layer of well-differentiated primary human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells, here we triggered UJT by exposing the sedentary layer to mechanical compression9–12. Cells thereafter migrated cooperatively, aligned into packs locally, and elongated systematically. Nevertheless, cell-cell junctions, apico-basal polarity, and barrier function remained intact in response, and mesenchymal markers remained unapparent. As such, pEMT was not evident. When we triggered pEMT and associated cellular migration by exposing the sedentary layer to TGF-β1, metrics of UJT versus pEMT diverged. To account for these striking physical observations a new mathematical model attributes the effects of pEMT mainly to diminished junctional tension but attributes those of UJT mainly to augmented cellular propulsion. Together, these findings establish that UJT is sufficient to account for vigorous epithelial layer migration even in the absence of pEMT. Distinct gateways to cellular migration therefore become apparent – UJT as it might apply to migration of epithelial sheets, and EMT/pEMT as it might apply to migration of mesenchymal cells on a solitary or collective basis, activated during development, remodeling, repair or tumor invasion. Through the actions of UJT and pEMT working independently, sequentially, or interactively, living tissue is therefore seen to comprise an active engineering material whose modules for plasticity, self-repair and regeneration, are far richer than had been previously appreciated.
Protective microbiomes can limit the evolution of host pathogen defense
Authors: Metcalf C. Jessica E. , Koskella Britt
Published: June 2019

The evolution of host immunity occurs in the context of the microbiome, but little theory exists to predict how resistance against pathogens might be influenced by the need to tolerate and regulate commensal microbiota. We present a general model to explore the optimal investment in host immunity under conditions in which the host can, versus cannot easily distinguish among commensal versus pathogenic bacteria; and when commensal microbiota can, versus cannot protect the host against the impacts of pathogen infection. We find that a loss of immune vigilance associated with innate immunity over evolutionary time can occur due to the challenge of discriminating between pathogenic and other microbe species. Further, we find the greater the protective effect of microbiome species, acting either directly or via competition with a pathogen, or the higher the costs of immunity, the more likely the loss of immune vigilance is. Conversely, this effect can be reversed when pathogens increase host mortality. Generally, the magnitude of costs of immunity required to allow evolution of decreased immune vigilance are predicted to be lowest when microbiome and pathogen species most resemble each other (in terms of host recognition), and when immune effects on the pathogen are weak. Our model framework makes explicit the core trade-offs likely to shape the evolution of immunity in the context of microbiome / pathogen discrimination. We discuss how this informs interpretation of patterns and process in natural systems, including vulnerability to pathogen emergence.

Impact Summary

Evidence for impacts of the microbiome on host health is accumulating. Despite this, little theory has been developed to delineate the evolutionary trajectories that might lead to observed host-microbiome associations. One particularly important theoretical gap is evaluating how the presence and effects of microbiome species modify selection pressure on immune system function. We develop a simple model of host fitness given both immune discrimination and microbiome and pathogen effects on survival, in the context of an interaction between the microbiome and pathogen species. We use this framework to predict when and to what degree the presence of microbiome species might lead to loss of immune vigilance. Positive microbiome effects can drive loss of immune vigilance, whether the microbiome acts directly on pathogen growth or indirectly by reducing the impacts of pathogens; and high costs of immunity will amplify this effect. Our results provide a first set of predictions regarding how immunity should evolve given the challenge of discriminating pathogen and microbiome species, and reveals the ways in which this might leave hosts vulnerable to novel pathogens.
A simple pressure-assisted method for MicroED specimen preparation
Authors: Zhao Jingjing , Xu Hongyi , Lebrette Hugo , Carroni Marta , Taberman Helena , Högbom Martin , Zou Xiaodong
Published: June 2019

Micro-crystal electron diffraction (MicroED) has shown great potential for structure determination of macromolecular crystals too small for X-ray diffraction. However, specimen preparation remains a major bottleneck. Here, we report a simple method for preparing MicroED specimens, named Preassis, in which excess liquid is removed through an EM grid with the assistance of pressure. We show the ice thicknesses can be controlled by tuning the pressure in combination with EM grids with appropriate hole sizes. Importantly, Preassis can handle a wide range of protein crystals grown in various buffer conditions including those with high viscosity, as well as samples with low crystal contents. Preassis is a simple and universal method for MicroED specimen preparation, and will significantly broaden the applications of MicroED.
Use of a mechanistic growth model in evaluating post-restoration habitat quality for juvenile salmonids
Authors: Polivka Carlos M. , Mihaljevic Joseph R. , Dwyer Greg
Published: June 2019

Individual growth data are useful in assessing relative habitat quality, but this approach is less common when evaluating the efficacy of habitat restoration. Furthermore, available models describing growth are infrequently combined with computational approaches capable of handling large data sets. We apply a mechanistic model to evaluate whether selection of restored habitat can affect individual growth. We used mark-recapture to collect size and growth data on sub-yearling Chinook salmon and steelhead in restored and unrestored habitat in five sampling years (2009, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2016). Modeling strategies differed for the two species: For Chinook, we compared growth patterns of individuals recaptured in restored habitat over 15-60 d with those not recaptured regardless of initial habitat at marking. For steelhead, we had enough recaptured fish in each habitat type to use the model to directly compare habitats. The model generated spatially explicit growth parameters describing size of fish over the growing season in restored vs. unrestored habitat. Model parameters showed benefits of restoration for both species, but that varied by year and time of season, consistent with known patterns of habitat partitioning among them. The model was also supported by direct measurement of growth rates in steelhead and by known patterns of spatio-temporal partitioning of habitat between these two species. Model parameters described not only the rate of growth, but the timing of size increases, and is spatially explicit, accounting for habitat differences, making it widely applicable across taxa. The model usually supported data on density differences among habitat types in Chinook, but only in a couple of cases in steelhead. Modeling growth can thus prevent overconfidence in distributional data, which are commonly used as the metric of restoration success.
Zebrafish spinal cord repair is accompanied by transient tissue stiffening
Authors: Möllmert Stephanie , Kharlamova Maria A. , Hoche Tobias , Taubenberger Anna V. , Abuhattum Shada , Kuscha Veronika , Kurth Thomas , Brand Michael , Guck Jochen
Published: June 2019

Severe injury to the mammalian spinal cord results in permanent loss of function due to the formation of a glial-fibrotic scar. Both the chemical composition and the mechanical properties of the scar tissue have been implicated to inhibit neuronal regrowth and functional recovery. By contrast, adult zebrafish are able to repair spinal cord tissue and restore motor function after complete spinal cord transection owing to a complex cellular response that includes neurogenesis and axon regrowth. The mechanical mechanisms contributing to successful spinal cord repair in adult zebrafish are, however, currently unknown. Here, we employ AFM-enabled nano-indentation to determine the spatial distributions of apparent elastic moduli of living spinal cord tissue sections obtained from uninjured zebrafish and at distinct time points after complete spinal cord transection. In uninjured specimens, spinal gray matter regions were stiffer than white matter regions. During regeneration after transection, the spinal cord tissues displayed a significant increase of the respective apparent elastic moduli that transiently obliterated the mechanical difference between the two types of matter, before returning to baseline values after completion of repair. Tissue stiffness correlated variably with cell number density, oligodendrocyte interconnectivity, axonal orientation, and vascularization. The presented work constitutes the first quantitative mapping of the spatio-temporal changes of spinal cord tissue stiffness in regenerating adult zebrafish and provides the tissue mechanical basis for future studies into the role of mechanosensing in spinal cord repair.
The impact of rainfall on drinking water quality in Antananarivo, Madagascar
Authors: Bastaraud Alexandra , Perthame Emeline , Rakotondramanga Jean-Marius , Mahazosaotra Jackson , Ravaonindrina Noro , Jambou Ronan
Published: June 2019

Low-income cities that are subject to high population pressure and vulnerable to climate events often have a low capacity to continuously deliver safe drinking water. Here we report the findings of a 32-year investigation of the temporal dynamics of indicators of drinking water quality in the city of Antananarivo, where we assess the long-term evolution of supplied water quality and characterize the interactions between climate conditions and the full-scale supply system. A total of 25,467 water samples were collected every week at different points in the supplied drinking water system. Samples were analyzed for total coliforms (TC), Escherichia coli (EC), intestinal Enterococci (IE), and spores of Clostridia (SSRC). Nine-hundred-eighty-one samples that were identified as positive for one or more indicators were unevenly distributed across the series. The breakpoint method identified four periods when the time series displayed changes in the level and profile of contamination (i) and the monthly pattern of contamination (ii), with more direct effects of rainfall on the quality of supplied drinking water. The modeling showed significantly different lags among indicators of bacteria occurrence after cumulative rainfall, which range from 4 to 8 weeks. Among the effects of low-income urbanization, a rapid demographic transition and urban watershed degradation are progressively affecting the quality of supplied water and resulting in the more direct effects of rainfall events.
Structural analysis of the HIN1 domain of interferon-inducible protein 204
Authors: Tian Yuan , Yin Qian
Published: June 2019

Interferon-inducible protein 204 (p204) binds to microbial DNA to elicit inflammatory responses and induce interferon production. p204 also modulates cell proliferation and differentiation by regulating various transcription factors. The C-terminal HIN domains in p204 are believed to be responsible for DNA binding, but the binding mode is not fully understood. The DNA-binding affinity of the p204 HIN1 domain has been characterized and its crystal structure has been determined, providing insight into its interaction with DNA. Surface-charge distribution together with sequence alignment suggests that the p204 HIN domain uses its L12 and L45 loops for DNA binding.
Perceived human resource management and presenteeism
Authors: Haque Amlan , Fernando Mario , Caputi Peter
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mediating effect of employee turnover intentions (ETI) on the relationship between perceived human resource management (PHRM) and presenteeism. The notion of presenteeism is described as coming to work when unwell and unable to work with full capacity.

Design/methodology/approach

Using social exchange theory and structured equation modelling, hypotheses were tested using responses from 200 full-time Australian employees.

Findings

The results show that employees’ PHRM significantly influenced presenteeism and ETI. As predicted, PHRM negatively influenced presenteeism and ETI positively influenced presenteeism. The direct influence of PHRM on presenteeism was fully mediated by ETI.

Practical implications

This paper suggests that organisations expecting to address presenteeism by promoting PHRM may experience an adverse result when employees conceal turnover intentions.

Social implications

Form the perspective of social exchange, this study focuses on ETI as a mediating variable and sheds light on employees’ hidden attitudes about their jobs to explain how PHRM can influence presenteeism in Australia. Consequently, the findings should help both organisations and employees to identify ways that PHRM can reduce presenteeism.

Originality/value

This paper examines the unique meditational role of ETI in the relationship between PHRM and presenteeism, which is an area of inquiry that has not been fully examined in the literature of HRM. In addition, it examines presenteeism among Australian employees in relation to PHRM.