bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New AMP‐forming acid:CoA ligases from Streptomyces lividans, some of which are posttranslationally regulated by reversible lysine acetylation
Authors: Burckhardt Rachel M. , VanDrisse Chelsey M. , Tucker Alex C. , Escalante‐Semerena Jorge C.
Published: November 2019

In nature, organic acids are a commonly used source of carbon and energy. Many bacteria use AMP‐forming acid:CoA ligases to convert organic acids into their corresponding acyl‐CoA derivatives, which can then enter metabolism. The soil environment contains a broad diversity of organic acids, so it is not surprising that bacteria such as Streptomyces lividans can activate many of the available organic acids. Our group has shown that the activity of many acid:CoA ligases is posttranslationally controlled by acylation of an active‐site lysine. In some cases, the modification is reversed by deacylases of different types. We identified eight new acid:CoA ligases in S. lividans TK24. Here, we report the range of organic acids that each of these enzymes can activate, and determined that two of the newly identified CoA ligases were under NAD+‐dependent sirtuin deacylase reversible lysine (de)acetylation control, four were not acetylated by two acetyltransferases used in this work, and two were acetylated but not deacetylated by sirtuin. This work provides insights into the broad organic‐acid metabolic capabilities of S. lividans, and sheds light into the control of the activities of CoA ligases involved in the activation of organic acids in this bacterium.
Inhibition of glycine cleavage system by pyridoxine 5′‐phosphate causes synthetic lethality in glyA yggS and serA yggS in Escherichia coli
Authors: Ito Tomokazu , Hori Ran , Hemmi Hisashi , Downs Diana M. , Yoshimura Tohru
Published: November 2019

The YggS/Ybl036c/PLPBP family includes conserved pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate (PLP)‐binding proteins that play a critical role in the homeostasis of vitamin B6 and amino acids. Disruption of members of this family causes pleiotropic effects in many organisms by unknown mechanisms. In Escherichia coli, conditional lethality of the yggS and glyA (encoding serine hydroxymethyltransferase) has been described, but the mechanism of lethality was not determined. Strains lacking yggS and serA (3‐phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase) were conditionally lethality in the M9‐glucose medium supplemented with Gly. Analyses of vitamin B6 pools found the high‐levels of pyridoxine 5′‐phosphate (PNP) in the two yggS mutants. Growth defects of the double mutants could be eliminated by overexpressing PNP/PMP oxidase (PdxH) to decrease the PNP levels. Further, a serA pdxH strain, which accumulates PNP in the presence of yggS, exhibited similar phenotype to serA yggS mutant. Together these data suggested the inhibition of the glycine cleavage (GCV) system caused the synthetic lethality. Biochemical assays confirmed that PNP disrupts the GCV system by competing with PLP in GcvP protein. Our data are consistent with a model in which PNP‐dependent inhibition of the GCV system causes the conditional lethality observed in the glyA yggS or serA yggS mutants.
Non‐thermal atmospheric plasma treatment of onychomycosis in an in vitro human nail model
Authors: Bulson Jeffry M. , Liveris Dionysios , Derkatch Irina , Friedman Gary , Geliebter Jan , Park Sin , Singh Sarnath , Zemel Marc , Tiwari Raj K.
Published: November 2019

Background

Onychomycosis affects almost 6% of the world population. Topical azoles and systemic antifungal agents are of low efficacy and can have undesirable side effects. An effective, non‐invasive therapy for onychomycosis is an unmet clinical need.

Objective

Determine the efficacy threshold of non‐thermal atmospheric plasma (NTAP) to treat onychomycosis in an in vitro model.

Methods

A novel toe/nail‐plate model using cadaver nails and agarose media inoculated with Candida albicans was exposed to a range of NTAP doses.

Results

Direct exposure of C albicans and Trichophyton mentagrophytes to 12 minutes of NTAP results in complete killing at doses of 39 and 15 kPulses, respectively. Onset of reduced viability of C albicans to NTAP treatment through the nail plate occurs at 64 kPulses with 10× and 100× reduction at 212 and 550 kPulses, respectively.

Conclusions

NTAP is an effective, non‐invasive therapeutic approach to onychomycosis that should be evaluated in a clinical setting.
Multifloret spikelet improves rice yield
Authors: Ren Deyong , Li Yunfeng , He Guanghua , Qian Qian
Published: November 2019

The typical rice (Oryza sativa) spikelet contains a single fertile floret and produces only one grain; by contrast, Brachypodium distachyon spikelets contain multiple fertile florets and produce several grains. To increase yield, rice breeders have traditionally focused on panicle morphology (branch number and length, spikelet density), but have not considered the number of florets in each spikelet. Production of rice spikelets with more florets could further increase the number of grains per panicle. Here, we describe two novel approaches – altering meristem determinacy and restoring lateral floret formation – for breeding rice cultivars with a multifloret spikelet, thereby increasing the number of grains per panicle and potentially improving yield.
A multilevel analysis of craniofacial growth in subjects with untreated Class III malocclusion
Authors: Rutili Valentina , Nieri Michele , Giuntini Veronica , McNamara James A. , Franchi Lorenzo
Published: November 2019

Objective

To analyse the craniofacial growth of a long‐term semi‐longitudinal sample of Caucasian subjects with untreated Class III malocclusion.

Setting and sample population

A total of 144 Caucasian subjects (of North American and Italian origin) with untreated Class III malocclusion.

Materials and methods

Subjects aged 2 years and 9 months up to 21 years and 7 months were selected. A multilevel model was used to calculate growth curves for ten variables for both each individual subject and for the whole sample.

Results

There was a statistically significant increase for total mandibular length (Co‐Gn. T2‐T1 = 8.4 mm), midfacial length (Co‐A. T2‐T1 = 3.4 mm) and lower anterior facial height (ANS‐Me. T2‐T1 = 3.8 mm). The multilevel analysis showed two points of acceleration of growth (about 3‐5 years of age and 11‐15 years of age) for seven out of ten variables. For Co‐Gn and Co‐A variables, males presented points of maximum growth delayed by 1 year in comparison with females, with a greater duration (1 year longer) and a greater total growth of about 5 mm. Active mandibular growth continued for a long time after the pubertal spurt: increases in mandibular length ended at about 17 years of age in females and at 21 years and 7 months in males.

Conclusions

Untreated Class III malocclusion showed a specific growth curve, especially for the mandible, whose excesses added up over time. In males, the amounts of mandibular and midfacial growth during the whole observation time were greater and lasted longer than in females.
Use of the cryoballoon to ablate pulmonary vein‐dependent left atrial flutter
Authors: Peigh Graham , Wasserlauf Jeremiah , Sattayaprasert Prasongchai , Verma Nishant , Knight Bradley P.
Published: November 2019

New atrial flutter (AFL) that arises after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) by catheter or surgical ablation can originate from reconnection of a pulmonary vein (PV). Reisolation of PVs with cryoballoon ablation (CBA) for treatment of peri‐PV AFL after Maze or PVI has not previously been reported. The present case series describes use of CBA to treat post‐PVI and post‐Maze PV‐dependent AFL. In these cases, CBA was used to reisolate the PVs and terminate AFL without requiring additional lesion sets for treatment of AFL.
Quality of life, depression, and anxiety in patients with a subcutaneous versus transvenous defibrillator system
Authors: Pedersen Susanne S. , Carter Nathan , Barr Craig , Scholten Marcoen , Lambiase Pier D. , Boersma Lucas , Johansen Jens Brock , Theuns Dominic A. M. J. ,   on behalf of the EFFORTLESS Investigators
Published: November 2019

Background

Use of the subcutaneous implantable defibrillator (S‐ICD) has increased because the device received US Food and Drug Administration approval in 2012, but we still know little about whether the quality of life (QoL) of patients with an S‐ICD versus a transvenous ICD (TV‐ICD) is comparable. We compared S‐ICD patients with TV‐ICD patients on QoL, depression, and anxiety up to 12 months’ follow‐up.

Methods

A matched cohort of S‐ICD (N = 167) and TV‐ICD patients (N = 167) completed measures on QoL, depression, anxiety, and personality at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months post implant. Data were analyzed using multivariable modeling with repeated measures.

Results

In adjusted analyses, we found no statistically significant differences between cohorts on physical and mental QoL and depression (all Ps > .05), while S‐ICD patients reported lower anxiety than TV‐ICD patients (P = 0.0007). Both cohorts experienced improvements in physical and mental QoL and symptoms of depression and anxiety over time (all Ps < .001), primarily between implant and 3 months. These improvements were similar for both cohorts with respect to physical and mental QoL and anxiety (Ps > .05), while S‐ICD patients experienced greater reductions in depressive symptoms (P = .0317).

Conclusion

The QoL and depression levels were similar in patients with an S‐ICD and a TV‐ICD up to 12 months’ follow‐up, while S‐ICD patients reported lower anxiety levels and a greater reduction in depression over time as compared to TV‐ICD patients. This knowledge may be important for patients and clinicians, if the indication for implantation allows both the S‐ICD and the TV‐ICD, making a choice possible.
Breaking the glass ceiling, but facing a glass cliff? The role of organizational decline in women's representation in leadership positions in Dutch civil service organizations
Authors: Groeneveld Sandra , Bakker Vincent , Schmidt Eduard
Published: November 2019

Despite efforts to increase gender diversity and equality worldwide, women are still underrepresented in leadership positions in public bureaucracies. This article speaks to the debate on how organizational context, more specifically organizational decline, may influence gender representation in such leadership positions. Based on role congruity theory and glass cliff theory this article empirically examines whether and how excessive workforce reductions are associated with changes in the representation of women in leadership positions in Dutch civil service organizations. Panel analyses on administrative data show that women's representation in leadership positions varies over time, but is not significantly affected by excessive workforce reductions. Overall, the analyses do not provide evidence for a glass cliff for women in Dutch civil service organizations. Implications for theory and future research are discussed.
Long‐term Outcomes of Computerized Tomography–Guided Sphenopalatine Ganglion–Targeted Pulsed Radiofrequency for Refractory Cluster Headache
Authors: Chen Zheng , Ren Hao , Zhao Chunmei , Luo Fang
Published: November 2019

Objective

To further evaluate the efficacy and safety of computerized tomography–guided sphenopalatine ganglion–targeted pulsed radiofrequency treatment for patients with refractory episodic and chronic cluster headache (CH).

Methods

Forty‐five patients with refractory episodic CH and 14 patients with chronic CH who underwent computerized tomography–guided sphenopalatine ganglion–targeted pulsed radiofrequency between January 2011 and December 2018 at the Beijing Tiantan Hospital were included and analyzed in this retrospective cohort study.

Results

A total of 59 patients underwent 106 computerized tomography–guided pulsed radiofrequency procedures throughout the observational period. Effective remission was observed in 95.6% and 64.3% of patients with refractory episodic and chronic CH, respectively. Repeated computerized tomography–guided sphenopalatine ganglion–targeted pulsed radiofrequency procedures for recurrent CH was also proven to be effective. No severe side effects or complications were observed in this study.

Conclusion

The computerized tomography–guided sphenopalatine ganglion–targeted pulsed radiofrequency procedure is an effective, safe, and repeatedly effective strategy for refractory CH. For patients who have not responded to conservative treatment, this minimally invasive intervention is a reliable alternative.
A multidrug and toxic compound extrusion (MATE) transporter modulates auxin levels in root to regulate root development and promotes aluminium tolerance
Authors: Upadhyay Neha , Kar Debojyoti , Datta Sourav
Published: November 2019

MATE (multidrug and toxic compound extrusion) transporters play multiple roles in plants including detoxification, secondary metabolite transport, aluminium (Al) tolerance, and disease resistance. Here we identify and characterize the role of the Arabidopsis MATE transporter DETOXIFICATION30. AtDTX30 regulates auxin homeostasis in Arabidopsis roots to modulate root development and Al‐tolerance. DTX30 is primarily expressed in roots and localizes to the plasma membrane of root epidermal cells including root hairs. dtx30 mutants exhibit reduced elongation of the primary root, root hairs, and lateral roots. The mutant seedlings accumulate more auxin in their root tips indicating role of DTX30 in maintaining auxin homeostasis in the root. Al induces DTX30 expression and promotes its localization to the distal transition zone. dtx30 seedlings accumulate more Al in their roots but are hyposensitive to Al‐mediated rhizotoxicity perhaps due to saturation in root growth inhibition. Increase in expression of ethylene and auxin biosynthesis genes in presence of Al is absent in dtx30. The mutants exude less citrate under Al conditions, which might be due to misregulation of AtSTOP1 and the citrate transporter AtMATE. In conclusion, DTX30 modulates auxin levels in root to regulate root development and in the presence of Al indirectly modulates citrate exudation to promote Al tolerance.
Day length regulates seasonal patterns of stomatal conductance in Quercus species
Authors: Granda Elena , Baumgarten Frederik , Gessler Arthur , Gil‐Pelegrin Eustaquio , Peguero‐Pina Jose Javier , Sancho‐Knapik Domingo , Zimmermann Niklaus E. , Resco de Dios Víctor
Published: November 2019

Vapour pressure deficit is a major driver of seasonal changes in transpiration, but photoperiod also modulates leaf responses. Climate warming might enhance transpiration by increasing atmospheric water demand and the length of the growing season, but photoperiod‐sensitive species could show dampened responses. Here, we document that day length is a significant driver of the seasonal variation in stomatal conductance. We performed weekly gas exchange measurements across a common garden experiment with 12 oak species from contrasting geographical origins, and we observed that the influence of day length was of similar strength to that of vapour pressure deficit in driving the seasonal pattern. We then examined the generality of our findings by incorporating day‐length regulation into well‐known stomatal models. For both angiosperm and gymnosperm species, the models improved significantly when adding day‐length dependences. Photoperiod control over stomatal conductance could play a large yet underexplored role on the plant and ecosystem water balances.
Relationships of growth, stable carbon isotope composition and anatomical properties of leaf and xylem in seven mulberry cultivars: a hint towards drought tolerance
Authors: Cao X. , Shen Q. , Liu L. , Cheng J.
Published: November 2019

The fast growth of mulberry depends on high water consumption, but considerable variations in drought tolerance exist across different cultivars. Physiological and anatomical mechanisms are important to plant survival under drought. However, few research efforts have been made to reveal the relationships of these two aspects in relation to drought tolerance.

In this study, growth rates, leaf functional physiology and anatomical characteristics of leaf and xylem of 1‐year‐old saplings of seven mulberry cultivars at a common garden were compared. Their relationships were also explored.

Growth, leaf physiology and anatomy were significantly different among the tested cultivars. Foliar stable carbon isotope composition (δ13C) was negatively correlated with growth rates, and closely related to several leaf and xylem anatomical traits. Particularly, leaf thickness, predicted hydraulic conductivity and vessel element length jointly contributed 77% of the variability in δ13C. Cultivar Wupu had small stomata, intermediate leaf thickness, the smallest hydraulically weighted vessel diameter and highest vessel number, and higher δ13C; Yunguo1 had high abaxial stomatal density, low specific leaf area, moderate hydraulic conductivity and δ13C; these are beneficial features to reduce leaf water loss and drought‐induced xylem embolism in arid areas. Cultivar Liaolu11 had contrasting physiological and anatomical traits compared with the previous two cultivars, suggesting that it might be sensitive to drought.

Our findings indicate that growth and δ13C are closely associated with both leaf and xylem anatomical characteristics in mulberry, which provides fundamental information to assist evaluation of drought tolerance in mulberry cultivars and in other woody trees.
Genetic analysis suggests a long and largely isolated evolutionary history of plum pox virus strain D in Turkey
Authors: Gürcan K. , Teber S. , Candresse T.
Published: November 2019

Plum pox virus (PPV) strain D is globally distributed and causes serious losses in stone fruits in over 40 countries. Here, full‐length genomic sequences were analysed for 44 PPV‐D isolates from all regions of Turkey, together with partial sequences for a larger number of isolates. PPV‐D isolates from Turkey are similar to other PPV‐D isolates in all major genomic features. However, the majority of Turkish PPV‐D isolates form separate phylogenetic clusters from all other isolates and show a geographical clustering tendency, suggestive of limited movement between regions. In particular, PPV‐D isolates from Thrace and Central Anatolia formed a monophyletic sister cluster to the cluster that includes all previously known PPV‐D isolates. Two isolates with strong evidence of recombination with the PPV‐T strain were identified, together with two isolates with weaker evidence for intra‐D strain recombination. The genetic diversity of PPV‐D was found to be particularly high in Turkey (0.017 ± 0.001%), close to that observed for PPV‐D world diversity once the over‐represented isolates from Japan, the USA and Canada have been excluded (0.020 ± 0.001%). Taken together, these results suggest a long and largely isolated evolutionary history of PPV‐D in Turkey and further extend knowledge of the diversity of this highly successful strain. The high diversity of PPV‐D in Turkey, together with the basal phylogenetic position of Turkish isolates, are compatible with a hypothesis making Turkey the centre of origin of the D strain.
Comparing the recovery of richness, structure, and biomass in naturally regrowing and planted reforestation
Authors: Staples Timothy L. , Mayfield Margaret M. , England Jacqueline R. , Dwyer John M.
Published: November 2019

The clearing of natural vegetation for agriculture has reduced the capacity of natural systems to provide ecosystem functions. Ecological restoration can restore desirable ecosystem functions, such as creating habitat for animal conservation and carbon sequestration as woody biomass. In order to maintain these beneficial ecosystem functions, restoration projects need to mature into self‐perpetuating communities. Here we compared the ecological attributes of two types of restoration, “active” tree plantings with “passive” natural forest regeneration (“natural regrowth”) to existing remnant vegetation in a cleared agricultural landscape. Specifically, we measured differences between forest categories in factors that may predict future restoration failure or ecosystem collapse: aboveground plant biomass and biomass accrual over time (for regrowing stands), plant density and size class distributions, and diversity of functional groups based on seed dispersal and growth strategy traits. We found that natural regrowth and planted forests were similar in many ecological characteristics, including biomass accrual. Despite this, planted stands contained fewer tree recruit and shrub individuals, which may be due to limited recruitment in plantings. If this continues, these forests may be at risk of collapsing into nonforest states after mature trees senesce. Lower shrub density and richness of mid‐story trees may lead to lower structural complexity in planting plots, and alongside lower richness of fleshy‐fruited plant species may reduce animal resources and animal use of the restored stand. In our study region, natural regrowth may result in restored woodland communities with greater conservation and carbon mitigation value.
Formation, diagenesis and palaeoenvironmental significance of upper Ediacaran fibrous dolomite cements
Authors: Hu Yongjie , Cai Chunfang , Liu Dawei , Pederson Chelsea L. , Jiang Lei , Shen Anjiang , Immenhauser Adrian
Published: November 2019

Neoproterozoic marine dolomite cements represent reliable, albeit complex, archives of their palaeoenvironment. Petrological and high‐resolution geochemical data from well‐preserved fibrous dolomite and pyrite in the upper Ediacaran (ca 551·1 to 548·0 Ma) Dengying Formation in south‐west China are presented and discussed here. The aim of this research is to reconstruct the redox state of late Ediacaran shallow seawater and porewater in the Sichuan Basin using early marine diagenetic fabrics. Based on crystalline texture and axis, four basic types of fibrous dolomite cements formed penecontemporaneously in a microbialite reef setting at the platform margin: (i) bladed dolomites (replacement from a high‐Mg calcite precursor); (ii) fascicular fast dolomites (replacement from an aragonitic precursor); (iii) fascicular slow dolomites; and (iv) radial slow dolomites. The latter two fabrics are considered direct marine porewater precipitates due to their length‐slow character, cathodoluminescent zonation, and enriched copper and cobalt concentrations. Marine cements yield rare earth element and yttrium patterns comparable to modern seawater and represent a refined set of archive data relative to previously published bulk dolostones. Redox‐sensitive elements and cathodoluminescence indicate that the fascicular fast dolomites formed in suboxic seawater, while fascicular slow and radial slow dolomites formed in euxinic marine porewaters. Microbial sulphate reduction during the formation of fascicular slow and radial slow dolomites is recognized by nanometre‐scale spheroidal ankerite and sulphur‐containing dolomite, and intergrown pyrite grains with U‐shaped δ34S transects. Data shown here suggest predominantly suboxic shallow late Ediacaran seawater and euxinic marine porewaters, with microbial activity promoting the direct precipitation of dolomite.
Detection of an HLA‐B*15 variant, HLA‐B*15:109, in a Taiwanese individual
Authors: Yang Kuo‐Liang , Lin Py‐Yu
Published: November 2019

One nucleotide replacement in codon 43 of HLA‐B*15:27:01 results in a new allele, HLA‐B*15:109.
Identification of a novel allele, HLA‐B*52:01:24, by sequence‐based typing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Li Jian‐Ping , Yu Xiao‐Nan , Zhang Bing , Wu Ce , Li Xiao‐Feng
Published: November 2019

HLA‐B*52:01:24 has one synonymous nucleotide change from HLA‐B*52:01:01:01 at nucleotide 384 (codon 104 Glycine).
Incidence, features, and outcomes of cytomegalovirus DNAemia in unmanipulated haploidentical allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with post‐transplantation cyclophosphamide
Authors: Huntley Dixie , Giménez Estela , Pascual María Jesús , Hernández‐Boluda Juan Carlos , Gago Beatriz , Vázquez Lourdes , Piñana José Luis , García Magdalena , Pérez Ariadna , Serrano David , Hernández Marta , Albert Eliseo , Solano Carlos , Navarro David
Published: November 2019

Background

Conflicting data have been published as to the risk of cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNAemia and CMV disease in patients undergoing haploidentical hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (haplo‐HSCT) with post‐transplantation cyclophosphamide.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter retrospective study including 118 patients subjected to unmanipulated haplo‐HSCT to further clarify this issue. An historic cohort comprising 165 patients undergoing other transplant modalities (HLA‐matched related, matched unrelated or mismatched) was built for comparison purposes. Plasma CMV DNA monitoring was performed using two highly sensitive real‐time PCR assays.

Results

Overall, the cumulative incidence of CMV DNAemia, recurrent CMV DNAemia, and CMV DNAemia requiring preemptive antiviral therapy in patients undergoing haplo‐HSCT was 63.9%, 34.9%, and 50.1%, respectively. These figures were rather comparable for other transplant modalities (P = .22,P = .13 andP = .72, respectively). A trend toward longer duration of episodes and shorter CMV DNA doubling times was observed in haplo‐HSCT patients in comparison with other transplant modalities. Furthermore, median CMV DNA peak load was significantly higher in haplo‐HSCTs (P = .008), yet overall mortality by day 180 and 365 was the same across comparison groups. There were five cases of CMV disease, and all occurred in haplo‐HSCT patients. This latter observation is worrying and merits further investigation.

Conclusions

The incidence of initial and recurrent episodes of CMV DNAemia either requiring or not antiviral therapy in unmanipulated haplo‐HSCT was comparable to other transplant modalities in our cohort.
Quantitative ubiquitylomics approach for characterizing the dynamic change and extensive modulation of ubiquitylation in rice seed germination
Authors: He Dongli , Li Ming , Damaris Rebecca N. , Bu Chen , Xue Jianyou , Yang Pingfang
Published: November 2019

During seed germination, cells embark on extensive post‐transcriptional and post‐translational modifications (PTM), providing a perfect platform to study these events in embryo rebooting from relative quiescenct to highly active state. PR‐619, a deubiquitylase inhibitor, delayed the rice seed germination and resulted in the accumulation of ubiquitylated proteins, which indicated the protein ubiquitylation is involved in this process. Using the K‐Ɛ‐GG antibody enrichment method integrated with high‐resolution mass spectrometry, a list of 2576 lysine ubiquitylated (Kub) sites in 1171 proteins was compiled for rice embryos at 0, 12 and 24 h after imbibition (HAI). Of these, the abundance of 1419 Kub sites in 777 proteins changed significantly. Most of them substantially increased within the first 12 HAI, which is similar to the dynamic state previously observed for protein phosphorylation, implying that the first 12 HAI are essential for subsequent switch during rice seed germination. We also quantitatively analyzed the embryo proteome in these samples. Generally, a specific protein’s abundance in the ubiquitylome was uncorrelated to that in the proteome. The differentially ubiquitinated proteins were greatly enriched in the categories of protein processing, DNA and RNA processing/regulation related, signaling, and transport. The DiGly footprint of the Kub sites was significantly reduced on K48, a linkage typically associated with proteasome‐mediated degradation. These observations suggest ubiquitylation may modulate the protein function more than providing 26S degradation signals in the early stage of rice seed germination. Revealing this comprehensive ubiquitylome greatly increases our understanding of this critical PTM during seed germination.
Valuing water supply infrastructure improvements using life satisfaction data as a complement to contingent valuation
Authors: del Saz‐Salazar Salvador , González‐Gómez Francisco , Guardiola Jorge
Published: November 2019

In light of the growing interest and potential of the Life Satisfaction Approach (LSA) to value environmental attributes, this research paper aims to estimate the monetary value of water supply infrastructure improvements using this novel approach. A theoretical framework compares this method with the widely used contingent valuation method (CVM), highlighting the pros and cons of both approaches. Results show that the LSA can generate meaningful values of the nonmarket benefits derived from improving water supply infrastructure, based on the impact that such benefits can have on individuals’ life satisfaction. In addition, these values are not different from those obtained from the CVM. Thus the LSA arises as a useful complement to the more traditional methods while expanding the array of techniques available for the economic valuation of environmental goods in a cost benefit framework.
Physiological processes of inflammation and edema initiated by sustained mechanical loading in subcutaneous tissues: A scoping review
Authors: Van Damme Nele , Van Hecke Ann , Remue Eline , Van den Bussche Karen , Moore Zena , Gefen Amit , Verhaeghe Sofie , Beeckman Dimitri
Published: November 2019

Deep tissue injuries are pressure ulcers which initiate in the subcutaneous tissues and extend through a bottom‐up pathway. Once deep tissue injuries are visual at skin level, serious irreversible tissue damage has already occurred. In pressure ulcer development, inflammation and edema are coupled physiological processes associated with tissue damage arising due to sustained mechanical loading. This study aimed to provide an in‐depth overview of the physiological processes of inflammation and edema initiated by sustained mechanical loading in subcutaneous tissues, in the context of pressure ulceration. A scoping review was performed according to the framework by Arksey and O'Malley. The databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus, and the reference lists of included studies were searched for in vivo (animal, human), and in vitro studies matching the study objectives (from inception to 28 May 2018). No restrictions for inclusion were applied for study design, setting, participants, and year of publication. A total of 12 studies were included, varying in study design, sample characteristics, amount and duration of mechanical loads that were applied, follow‐up time, and assessment methods. Neutrophil infiltration and edema occur in the subcutaneous tissues nearly immediately after the application of load on soft tissues. The amount of neutrophils and edema increase in the first days after the mechanical insult and decrease once healing has been initiated and no supplementary mechanical load was applied. One study indicated that edema may extend up to the level of the dermo‐epidermal junction. Further research should focus on how deep tissue inflammation and edema are reflected into unique tissue changes at skin level, and how abnormal inflammatory responses manifest (e.g. when the nervous system is not functioning normally).
Coxiella burnetiiseroprevalence in unvaccinated veterinary workers in Australia: Evidence to support Q fever vaccination
Authors: Sellens Emily , Bosward Katrina L. , Norris Jacqueline M. , Wood Nicholas , Heller Jane , Graves Stephen , Gidding Heather F.
Published: November 2019

Q fever (caused byCoxiella burnetii) is a serious zoonotic disease that occurs almost worldwide. Occupational contact with animals increases the risk of exposure, and Q fever vaccination is recommended for veterinary workers in Australia. This study aimed to investigateC. burnetiiseroprevalence among unvaccinated veterinary workers in Australia and determine factors associated with a positive serological result. During 2014 and 2015, convenience sampling at veterinary conferences and workplace vaccination clinics was undertaken. Participants completed a questionnaire and provided a blood sample forC. burnetiiserology. Participants were predominantly veterinarians (77%), but veterinary support staff, animal scientists, and administration workers also participated. Blood samples (n = 192) were analysed by an immunofluorescence assay and considered positive where the phase I or phase II IgG titre was ≥1/50. Seroprevalence was 19% (36/192; 95% CI 14%–25%). A positive serological result was significantly associated with (a) working in outer regional/remote areas (odds ratio [OR] 6.2; 95% CI 1.9–20.8; reference = major cities;p = .009) and (b) having spent more than 50% of total career working with ruminants (OR 4.8; 95% CI 1.7–13.5; reference = <15% of career;p = .025). These findings confirm an increased risk of exposure toC. burnetiicompared to the general population, providing new evidence to support Q fever vaccination of veterinary workers in Australia.
On the Convergence of the Matrix Lambert W Approach to Solution of Systems of Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Galip Ulsoy A. , Gitik Rita
Published: November 2019

Convergence of the matrix Lambert W function method for solving systems of delay differential equations (DDEs) is considered. Recent research shows that convergence problems occur with certain DDEs when using the well-established Q-iteration approach. A complementary, and recently proposed, W-iteration approach is shown to converge even on systems where Q-iteration fails. Furthermore, the role played by the branch numbers k = −∞ … −1, 0, 1, … ∞ of the matrix Lambert W function, Wk, in terms of initializing the iterative solutions, is also discussed and elucidated. Several second-order examples, known to have convergence problems with Q-iteration, are readily solved by W-iteration. Examples of third- and fourth-order DDEs show that W-iteration is also effective on higher-order systems.
False-Positive Results for Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing in Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy
Authors: Hauser Jocelyn R. , Hong Hong , Babady N. Esther , Papanicolaou Genovefa A. , Tang Yi-Wei
Published: November 2019

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell immunotherapy has been a major advancement in cancer therapeutics. Reprogramming of T cells is achieved by using gammaretroviral or lentiviral vectors, which may interfere with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT).
Early-onset sepsis: can we screen fewer babies safely?
Authors: Eason Julian , Ward Hope , Danko Olha , Richardson Kerrie , Vaitkute Rima , McKeon-Carter Roisin
Published: November 2019

Background

Over the past 2–3 years at the Southwest Peninsula tertiary neonatal unit in Plymouth, the authors have observed an increase in the number of clinically well term infants being screened and treated with antibiotics for infection in accordance with NICE guidance. The aim of our study was to assess the safety of implementing the Kaiser Permanente Early Onset Sepsis (KPEOS) calculator to minimise antibiotic usage in term infants in line with antimicrobial stewardship, reducing separation from mother at birth and facilitating earlier discharge.

Methods

A 2-year retrospective review of medical records from 2014 to 2015 inclusive revealed 9217 deliveries, with 1550 infants (16.8%) having risk factors, 945 (10.2%) being term infants. Of those, 507 (53.6%) had a clinical reason to screen and 438 (46.4%) had risk factors alone treated with antibiotics for variable periods of time. This enabled us to review our usual practice and compare it with our KPEOS implementation.

Intervention

National Health Service England permission was obtained to implement the KPEOS for a 6-month period. We collected data on all 175 term infants with risk factors to compare with our previous practice when The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology maternal guidance was being followed.

Results

The percentage of infants screened with a suspected infection previously receiving 5 days of antibiotics reduced from 31% (136/438) to 5% (9/157, p<0.0001) using the KPEOS calculator. Clinically well infants with risk factors alone previously receiving 36 hours of antibiotics, reduced from 63% (275/438) to 3% (5/157, p<0.0001) of infants treated. There was no late-onset sepsis in this study cohort or any observed adverse outcomes.

Conclusion

These results demonstrated a potentially safe and effective quality improvement (QI) in our hospital with fewer babies treated and a reduced length of stay for this cohort. Considering individual hospitals rates for term Group B Streptococcal sepsis, this QI may be a safe and economical alternative to current practices for screening well term infants.
Non-surgical management of a tibiofemoral knee dislocation in a patient with sarcoidosis
Authors: Flowers Daniel , Olmedo Margaret
Published: November 2019

This case presents a patient who sustained a knee dislocation, and who due to her diagnosis of sarcoidosis, other comorbidities, and prolonged use of corticosteroids, external fixation and physical therapy were implemented versus soft tissue reconstruction/repair. Research indicates worse functional outcomes with non-surgical treatment, and guidelines on optimising outcomes in this population are lacking. Integrated care of the patient—even when complex injuries and comorbid medical conditions are present—can lead to positive functional recovery, despite previous data. Evidence from related injuries can be successfully adapted in non-surgical management of these injuries, providing general treatment guidelines.
Recurrent focal myositis developing into a generalised idiopathic inflammatory myopathy with anti-3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase autoantibodies
Authors: Lim Johan , Ten Dam Leroy , Baars Paul A , Van der Kooi Anneke J
Published: November 2019

We present the case of a 43-year-old woman with generalised idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM) with anti-3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) autoantibodies (Abs) that developed following recurrent focal myositis. Anti-HMGCR Abs are myositis-specific Abs that are associated with immune-mediated necrotising myopathy, a subtype of IIM that is characterised by relatively prominent and severe muscle involvement, generally necessitating multimodal immunosuppressant treatment. While earlier reports have described patients developing polymyositis following focal myositis, this is the first report to describe a patient developing IIM with anti-HMGCR Abs following focal myositis. Thus, clinicians should be aware of the possibility that focal myositis may develop into a generalised IIM and should instruct the patient and monitor the patient accordingly.
Diffuse normolipemic plane xanthoma with underlying photosensitive dermatoses
Authors: Gupta Mudita , Sharma Rajni , Gulati Anchana , Gupta Archit
Published: November 2019

Diffuse plane xanthomatosis is a normolipemic non-Langerhan cell histiocytosis. Clinically, patient presents as asymptomatic yellowish plaques involving eyelids, neck, upper trunk and flexures. Usually, there is an associated haematological or lymphoproliferative malignancy which may precede or follow dermatological manifestations by many years. Rarely inflammatory dermatosis like atopic eczema, photosensitive dermatosis, erythroderma, previous scars and lymphoedema have been found to be associated with these xanthomas. We are reporting a 46-year-old male patient who had a history of photosensitivity for the last 15 years and subsequently developed diffuse plane normolipemic xanthomas.
Corynebacterium diphtheriaebloodstream infection: the role of antitoxin
Authors: Sutton-Fitzpatrick Una , Grant Conor , Nashev Dimitar , Fleming Catherine
Published: November 2019

A 65-year-old male patient presented with fever, fast atrial fibrillation and frank haematuria on return to Ireland from travel in East Africa. He had a systolic murmur leading to a clinical suspicion of endocarditis. He had no specific clinical features of diphtheria. Blood cultures were taken and empiric therapy commenced with benzylpenicillin, vancomycin and gentamicin.Corynebacterium diphtheriaewas detected on blood culture. The isolate was submitted to a reference laboratory for evaluation of toxigenicity. While initially there was concern regarding the possibility of myocarditis, a clinical decision was made not to administer diphtheria antitoxin in the absence of clinical features of respiratory diphtheria, in the presence of invasive infection and with presumptive previous immunisation. There is no specific guidance on the role of antitoxin in this setting. The issue is not generally addressed in previous reports ofC. diphtheriaeblood stream infection.
Peritoneal macrophages have an impaired immune response in obesity which can be reversed by subsequent weight loss
Authors: Willemsen Lisa , Neele Annette E , van der Velden Saskia , Prange Koen H M , den Toom Myrthe , van Roomen Cindy P A A , Reiche Myrthe E , Griffith Guillermo R , Gijbels Marion J J , Lutgens Esther , de Winther Menno P J
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Obesity is recognized as a risk factor for various microbial infections. The immune system, which is affected by obesity, plays an important role in the pathophysiology of these infections and other obesity-related comorbidities. Weight loss is considered the most obvious treatment for obesity. However, multiple studies suggest that the comorbidities of obesity may persist after weight loss. Deregulation of immune cells including adipose tissue macrophages of obese individuals has been extensively studied, but how obesity and subsequent weight loss affect immune cell function outside adipose tissue is not well defined.

Research design and methods

Here we investigated the phenotype of non-adipose tissue macrophages by transcriptional characterization of thioglycollate-elicited peritoneal macrophages (PM) from mice with diet-induced obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Subsequently, we defined the characteristics of PMs after weight loss and mimicked a bacterial infection by exposing PMs to lipopolysaccharide.

Results and conclusions

In contrast to the proinflammatory phenotype of adipose tissue macrophages in obesity and T2D, we found a deactivated state of PMs in obesity and T2D. Weight loss could reverse this deactivated macrophage phenotype. Anti-inflammatory characteristics of these non-adipose macrophages may explain why patients with obesity and T2D have an impaired immune response against pathogens. Our data also suggest that losing weight restores macrophage function and thus contributes to the reduction of immune-related comorbidities in patients.
Breastfeeding exposure is associated with better knowledge of and attitudes toward BF in Kuwaiti women
Authors: Alkazemi Dalal Usamah , Jackson Roberts
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Breastfeeding (BF) has many benefits for both infants and mothers. However, despite evidence in support of BF, its prevalence has remained low in Kuwait. The purpose of this study was to (1) assess and describe BF attitudes and knowledge among women at a college campus; (2) evaluate BF exposures and sociodemographic factors associated with attitudes toward BF; (3) determine the association between BF knowledge and attitudes.

Materials and methods

This survey was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted from February to April 2016. A convenience sample of 330 women (students, faculty and staff) from the College of Life Sciences (CLS) at Kuwait University participated in the survey.

Results

Most of the participants respected women who breast fed (81.8%). Some participants believed that BF a baby is painful (43.3%), makes the breasts sag (35.8%), and restricts the mothers’ freedom (51.5%). Additionally, 47.6% of the participants reported that they would feel embarrassed if they saw a woman BF her baby. Acceptability of BF in public was low and most participants preferred BF only around friends and family (52.4%). A statistically significant positive association was observed between BF knowledge and attitudes (R2=6.5%, p<0.001); however, the relationship was not independent and was also associated with nationality and having been breast fed as a baby (R2=10.3%, p=0.021).

Conclusion

BF knowledge is important to encourage positive BF attitudes, and both are enforced with family values and practice across generations.
A school-based, multi-faceted health promotion programme to prevent obesity among children: protocol of a cluster-randomised controlled trial (the DECIDE-Children study)
Authors: Liu Zheng , Wu Yangfeng , Niu Wen-Yi , Feng Xiangxian , Lin Yi , Gao Aiyu , Zhang Fang , Fang Hai , GAO Pei , Li Hui-Juan , Wang Haijun
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Obesity is a public health concern that is becoming increasingly more serious worldwide. Effective and sustainable childhood obesity prevention strategies may help to reduce the prevalence of obesity and may have an impact on lifelong health. However, few such strategies have been rigorously evaluated for Chinese children in different regions of China.

Methods and analysis

The Diet, ExerCIse and CarDiovascular hEalth-Children is a cluster-randomised controlled trial that aims to assess the effectiveness and sustainability of a school-based, multi-faceted intervention to prevent obesity among Grade 4 primary school students (8–10 years old) in China. Twenty-four schools (approximately 1200 students) from above average, average and below average developed regions in China will be randomised to an intervention (12 schools) or usual practice (12 schools) group. The intervention will last for one school year (9 months) and consists of activities towards students, parents and school environment. A smartphone application will be used to assist in providing information on, monitoring and providing feedback on the behaviours and body weight of the students. Data will be collected at baseline, 4 months, 9 months and 21 months. The primary outcome will be the difference between groups in the change in students’ body mass index at 9 months after the baseline investigation. The secondary outcomes will include the differences between groups in the changes in anthropometric measures, diet, physical activity levels and other measures at the follow-up visits. A variety of process evaluation methods will be used to evaluate the implementation process of the complex intervention.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the Peking University Institution Review Board (IRB00001052-18021). The results will be disseminated through publication in peer-reviewed journals, presentations at conferences and in lay summaries provided to school staff and participants.

Trial registration number

NCT03665857.