bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Streptomyces coryli sp. nov., isolated from hazelnut orchard soil
Authors: Saygin Hayrettin , Veyisoglu Aysel , Tatar Demet , Nigiz Cengiz , Tokatli Ali , Sahin Nevzat
Published: July 2020

A novel actinobacteria, isolate A7024T, was isolated from commercial hazelnut orchard soil sample which was collected at Duzce, West Black Sea region, Turkey. A polyphasic taxonomic study was carried out to determine the status of this isolate. The phylogenetic tree reconstructed using the neighbour-joining algorithm based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that isolate A7024T was positioned within the members of the genus

Streptomyces

with the highest sequence similarity (97.7 %) to

Streptomyces cadmiisoli

ZFG47T. The organism formed an extensively branched substrate and aerial hyphae which generated irregular rod-shaped spores with smooth-surfaces. The cell wall of strain A7024T contained ll-diaminopimelic. Glucose, mannose and ribose were detected as whole-cell sugars. Its polar lipids were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, three unidentified phospholipids and three unidentified glycolipids. Major menaquinones were MK-9(H6) and MK-9(H4). The major cellular fatty acids were iso-C16 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 0 and anteiso-C17 : 0. Strain A7024T had a genome size of 9.0 Mb with a genome G+C content of 71.5 mol%. The low level of 16S rRNA gene similarity, 19.3 ± 2.3% digital DNA–DNA
hybridization and 76.94 % average nucleotide identity values, as well as some different phenotypic characteristics allowed the strain to be distinguished from the closely related type strains. Therefore, it is concluded that strain A7024T represents a novel species of the genus of

Streptomyces

, for which the name Streptomyces coryli sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is A7024T (=DSM 42066T=KCTC 29102T=NRRL B-24888T).
A novel role of MNT as a negative regulator of REL and the NF-κB pathway
Authors: Liaño-Pons Judit , Lafita-Navarro M. Carmen , Colomer Carlota , García-Gaipo Lorena , Rodríguez Javier , von Kriegsheim Alex , Hurlin Peter , Delgado M. Dolores , Bigas Anna , Espinosa M. Lluis , Leon Javier
Published: July 2020

MNT, a transcription factor of the MXD family, is an important modulator of the oncoprotein MYC. Both MNT and MYC are basic-helix-loop-helix proteins that heterodimerize with MAX in a mutually exclusive manner, and bind to E-boxes within regulatory regions of their target genes. While MYC generally activates transcription, MNT represses it. However, the molecular interactions involving MNT as a transcriptional regulator beyond the binding to MAX remain unexplored. Here we demonstrate a novel MAX-independent protein interaction between MNT and c-REL (REL), the oncogenic member of the REL/NF-κB family. REL is involved in important biological processes and it is found altered in a variety of tumors. REL is a transcription factor that remains inactive in the cytoplasm in an inhibitory complex with IκB and translocates to the nucleus when the NF-κB pathway is activated. In the present manuscript, we show thatMNTknockdown triggers REL translocation into the nucleus and thus the activation of the NF-κB pathway. Meanwhile,MNToverexpression results in the repression of IκBα, abona-fideREL target. Indeed, both MNT and REL bind to the IκBα gene at a region mapping in the first exon, suggesting its regulation as a MNT-REL complex. Altogether our data indicate that MNT acts as a repressor of the NF-κB pathway by two different mechanisms: 1) retention of REL in the cytoplasm by MNT protein interaction and 2) MNT-driven repression of REL-target genes through a MNT-REL complex. These results widen our knowledge about MNT biological roles and reveal a novel connection between the MYC/MXD and the NF-κB pathways, two of the most prominent pathways involved in cancer.
Classification and Generation of Microscopy Images with Plasmodium Falciparum via Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Christian Ramarolahy Rija Tonny , Gyasi Esther Opoku , Crimi Alessandro
Published: July 2020

Background

Recent studies use machine-learning techniques to detect parasites in microscopy images automatically. However, these tools are trained and tested in specific datasets. Indeed, even if over-fitting is avoided during the improvements of computer vision applications, large differences are expected. Differences might be related to settings of camera (exposure, white balance settings, etc) and different blood film slides preparation. Moreover, generative adversial networks offer new opportunities in microscopy: data homogenization, and increase of images in case of imbalanced or small sample size.

Methods

Taking into consideration all those aspects, in this paper, we describe a more complete view including both detection and generating synthetic images: i) an automated detection used to detect malaria parasites on stained blood smear images using machine learning techniques testing several datasets. ii) investigate transfer learning and further testing in different unseen datasets having different staining, microscope, resolution, etc. iii) a generative approach to create synthetic images which can deceive experts.

Results

The tested architecture achieved 0.98 and 0.95 area under the ROC curve in classifying images with respectively thin and thick smear. Moreover, the generated images proved to be very similar to the original and difficult to be distinguished by an expert microscopist, which identified correcly the real data for one dataset but had 50% misclassification for another dataset of images.

Conclusion

The proposed deep-learning architecture performed well on a classification task for malaria parasites classification. The automated detection for malaria can help the technician to reduce their work and do not need any presence of experts. Moreover, generative networks can also be applied to blood smear images to generate useful images for microscopists. Opening new ways to data augmentation, translation and homogenization.
A Transcriptional Switch Governing Fibroblast Plasticity Underlies Reversibility of Chronic Heart Disease
Authors: Alexanian Michael , Przytycki Pawel F. , Micheletti Rudi , Padmanabhan Arun , Ye Lin , Travers Joshua G. , Teran Barbara Gonzalez , Duan Qiming , Ranade Sanjeev S. , Felix Franco , Linares-Saldana Ricardo , Huang Yu , Andreoletti Gaia , Yang Jin , Ivey Kathryn N. , Jain Rajan , McKinsey Timothy A. , Rosenfeld Michael G. , Gifford Casey , Pollard Katherine S. , Haldar Saptarsi M. , Srivastava Deepak
Published: July 2020

In diseased organs, stress-activated signaling cascades alter chromatin, triggering broad shifts in transcription and cell state that exacerbate pathology. Fibroblast activation is a common stress response that worsens lung, liver, kidney and heart disease, yet its mechanistic basis remains poorly understood1,2. Pharmacologic inhibition of the BET family of transcriptional coactivators alleviates cardiac dysfunction and associated fibrosis, providing a tool to mechanistically interrogate maladaptive fibroblast states and modulate their plasticity as a potential therapeutic approach3–8. Here, we leverage dynamic single cell transcriptomic and epigenomic interrogation of heart tissue with and without BET inhibition to reveal a reversible transcriptional switch underlying stress-induced fibroblast activation. Transcriptomes of resident cardiac fibroblasts demonstrated robust and rapid toggling between the quiescent fibroblast and activated myofibroblast state in a manner that directly correlated with BET inhibitor exposure and cardiac function. Correlation of single cell chromatin accessibility with cardiac function revealed a novel set of reversibly accessible DNA elements that correlated with disease severity. Among the most dynamic elements was an enhancer regulating the transcription factor MEOX1, which was specifically expressed in activated myofibroblasts, occupied putative regulatory elements of a broad fibrotic gene program, and was required for TGFβ-induced myofibroblast activation. CRISPR interference of the most dynamiccis-element within the enhancer, marked by nascent transcription, prevented TGFβ-induced activation ofMeox1. These findings identify MEOX1 as a central regulator of stress-induced myofibroblast activation associated with cardiac dysfunction. The plasticity and specificity of the BET-dependent regulation of MEOX1 in endogenous tissue fibroblasts provides newtrans- andcis- targets for treating fibrotic disease.
Two DNA binding domains of Mga act in combination to suppress ectopic activation of meiosis-related genes in mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Uranishi Kousuke , Hirasaki Masataka , Kitamura Yuka , Mizuno Yosuke , Nishimoto Masazumi , Suzuki Ayumu , Okuda Akihiko
Published: July 2020

Mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) have high potential for meiotic entry, like germ cells. Although the physiological meaning of this potential is not known, it is certain that a rigid safeguarding system is required to prevent ectopic onset of meiosis. PRC1.6, a non-canonical PRC1, is known for its suppression of precocious and ectopic meiotic onset in germ cells and ESCs, respectively, in which MGA has important roles in DNA binding as well as in constructing the complex as a scaffolding component. As a salient feature, MGA bears two distinct DNA-binding domains termed bHLHZ and T-box. However, how these features contribute to the functions of PRC1.6, particularly in the repression of meiotic genes, remains largely obscure. Here, we demonstrated that both DNA binding domains of Mga repress distinct sets of genes in murine ESCs, and substantial numbers of meiosis-related genes are included in both gene sets. In addition, our data demonstrated that both DNA binding domains of Mga, in particular bHLHZ, are crucially involved in repressing the expression ofMeiosin, which plays essential roles in meiotic entry in collaboration withStra8, revealing at least part of the molecular mechanisms that link negative and positive regulation of meiotic onset.
Beyond orphaned infants: novel effects of maternal death in wild primates
Authors: Zipple Matthew N. , Altmann Jeanne , Campos Fernando A. , Cords Marina , Fedigan Linda M. , Lawler Richard R. , Lonsdorf Elizabeth V. , Perry Susan , Pusey Anne E. , Stoinski Tara S. , Strier Karen B. , Alberts Susan C.
Published: July 2020

Primate offspring often depend on their mothers well beyond the age of weaning, and offspring that experience maternal death in early life can suffer substantial reductions in fitness across the lifespan. Here we leverage data from eight wild primate populations (seven species) to examine two underappreciated pathways linking early maternal death and offspring fitness that are distinct from direct effects of orphaning on offspring survival. First, we show that, for five of the seven species, offspring face reduced survival during the years immediatelyprecedingmaternal death, while the mother is still alive. Second, we identify an intergenerational effect of early maternal loss in three species (muriquis, baboons, and blue monkeys), such that early maternal death experienced in one generation leads to reduced offspring survival in the next. Our results have important implications for the evolution of slow life histories in primates, as they suggest that maternal condition and survival are more important for offspring fitness than previously realized.
The discovery of a recombinant SARS2-like CoV strain provides insights into SARS and COVID-19 pandemics
Authors: Li Xin , Jin Xiufeng , Chen Shunmei , Wang Liangge , Yau Tung On , Yang Jianyi , Hong Zhangyong , Ruan Jishou , Duan Guangyou , Gao Shan
Published: July 2020

In December 2019, the world awoke to a new zoonotic strain of coronavirus named severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). In the present study, we identified key recombination regions and mutation sites cross the SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV and SARS-like CoV clusters of betacoronavirus subgroup B. Based on the analysis of these recombination events, we proposed that the Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 may have more than one specific receptor for its function. In addition, we reported—for the first time—a recombination event ofORF8at the whole-gene level in a bat and ultimately determined that ORF8 enhances the viral replication. In conjunction with our previous discoveries, we found that receptor binding abilities, junction furin cleavage sites (FCSs), strong first ribosome binding sites (RBSs) and enhancedORF8s are main factors contributing to transmission, virulence and host adaptability of CoVs. Junction FCSs and enhancedORF8s increase the efficiencies in viral entry into cells and replication, respectively while strong first RBSs enhance the translational initiation. The strong recombination ability of CoVs integrated these factors to generate multiple recombinant strains, two of which evolved into SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 by nature selection, resulting in the SARS and COVID-19 pandemics.
Automated Classification of Bacterial Cell Sub-Populations with Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Tamiev Denis , Furman Paige , Reuel Nigel
Published: July 2020

Quantification of phenotypic heterogeneity present amongst bacterial cells can be a challenging task. Conventionally, classification and counting of bacteria sub-populations is achieved with manual microscopy, due to the lack of alternative, high-throughput, autonomous approaches. In this work, we apply classification-type convolutional neural networks (cCNN) to classify and enumerate bacterial cell sub-populations (B. subtilisclusters). Here, we demonstrate that the accuracy of the cCNN developed in this study can be as high as 86% when trained on a relatively small dataset (81 images). We also developed a new image preprocessing algorithm, specific to fluorescent microscope images, which increases the amount of training data available for the neural network by 72 times. By summing the classified cells together, the algorithm provides a total cell count which is on parity with manual counting, but is 10.2 times more consistent and 3.8 times faster. Finally, this work presents a complete solution framework for those wishing to learn and implement cCNN in their synthetic biology work.
Mechanism of humanistic leadership for success: lessons from Konosuke Matsushita
Authors: Ono Kaori , Ikegami Jusuke J.J.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This study contributes to the construction of a theory on humanistic leadership in the context of Japanese culture. Although the Japanese management system has been described as human-oriented, there has been limited research on this subject, especially regarding top leaders. This case study focuses on Konosuke Matsushita, the founder of Matsushita Electric (now Panasonic), who devoted his life as a businessperson to investigating human nature. The authors examined how the humanistic approach influenced his beliefs and behaviors, as well as his company's performance. The authors then show how current employees at Panasonic have implemented and interpreted his philosophy.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is a qualitative case study. Data were gathered from transcriptions of archived recordings, interviews and Internet documents. They were then coded for analyses.

Findings

The findings show how humanistic leadership can succeed via seven behaviors: building a company philosophy aimed at the prosperity of society and the well-being of people, being aware of one's own weaknesses, listening to others, improving oneself, developing people, respecting people and making a profit for society.

Originality/value

The study identifies the behavioral aspects of humanistic leadership for building a leadership theory and provides insight into how Matsushita's leadership characteristics and behaviors are connected to Japanese cultural values.
Three-dimensional CFD simulation and experimental validation of particle segregation in CFB riser
Authors: Dwivedi Krishna Kant , Pramanick Achintya Kumar , Karmakar Malay Kumar , Chatterjee Pradip Kumar
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to perform the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation with experimental validation to investigate the particle segregation effect in abrupt and smooth shapes circulating fluidized bed (CFB) risers.

Design/methodology/approach

The experimental investigations were carried out in lab-scale CFB systems and the CFD simulations were performed by using commercial software BARRACUDA. Special attention was paid to investigate the gas-particle flow behavior at the top of the riser with three different superficial velocities, namely, 4, 6 and 7.7 m/s. Here, a CFD-based noble simulation approach called multi-phase particle in cell (MP-PIC) was used to investigate the effect of traditional drag models (Wen-Yu, Ergun, Wen-Yu-Ergun and Richardson-Davidson-Harrison) on particle flow characteristics in CFB riser.

Findings

Findings from the experimentations revealed that the increase in gas velocity leads to decrease the mixing index inside the riser. Moreover, the solid holdup found more in abrupt riser than smooth riser at the constant gas velocity. Despite the more experimental investigations, the findings with CFD simulations revealed that the MP-PIC approach, which was combined with different drag models could be more effective for the practical (industrial) design of CFB riser. Well agreement was found between the simulation and experimental outputs. The simulation work was compared with experimental data, which shows the good agreement (<4%).

Originality/value

The experimental and simulation study performed in this research study constitutes an easy-to-use with different drag coefficient. The proposed MP-PIC model is more effective for large particles fluidized bed, which can be helpful for further research on industrial gas-particle fluidized bed reactors. This study is expected to give throughout the analysis of CFB hydrodynamics with further exploration of overall fluidization.
Value co-creation in Couchsurfing – the Indonesian host perspective
Authors: Sevisari Undhan , Reichenberger Ina
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Collaborative consumption experiences in tourism have been examined widely, yet predominantly focused on guest perspectives. Using the sharing economy platform Couchsurfing, this study aims to use value co-creation to explore hosting experiences in non-monetary accommodation sharing in a developing country, including hosts’ motivations to participate, the range of social practices during hosting and the value outcomes achieved through hosting.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a social constructivist paradigm, 20 in-depth interviews and 1 focus group were conducted with experienced Couchsurfing hosts in Indonesia.

Findings

Findings highlight the exclusively intrinsic nature of hosts’ motivations and their subsequent impact on co-creational practices and value outcomes. Social practices revolve around the establishment and acquisition of social and cultural capital and providing guests with authentic local and cultural tourist experiences. Hosts reported value outcomes relating to friendship, knowledge, an improved sense of self and employment opportunities.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this research may not be transferable to Western accommodation sharing settings or more rural and less touristically developed regions within developing countries.

Social implications

It is argued that hosting can contribute positively to host communities in developing countries by facilitating intercultural communication and knowledge transfer while enhancing cultural self-identity and professional advancement.

Originality/value

The majority of existing research on accommodation sharing has examined guest perspectives while being placed within predominantly Western contexts. This paper adds new knowledge by exploring the host perspective and examining the impacts of the sharing economy in a developing country.
Exploring perceptions and attitudes of black Sub-Sahara African (BSSA) migrants towards residential care in England
Authors: Nyashanu Mathew , Mbalinda Scovia Nalugo , Mushawa Fungisai , Ekpenyong Mandu Stephene
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Since the early 19th century, the UK has seen a decrease in mortality rates and increase in life expectancy. This has increased the number of elderly people being put into residential care. Change in British population demography with the arrival of many Africans from the black Sub-Sahara African (BSSA) countries has increased the need of these services. The purpose of this paper is to explore perceptions and attitude of BSSA towards residential care from potential user perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was explorative qualitative in nature, using focus group discussions and one-on-one follow up semi-structured interviews. The focus group discussions and interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. The Silences Framework was used to guide this study, and the collection of data was done using the thematic analysis approach.

Findings

This study found out that the sense of confinement, lack of ownership, non-provision of culturally friendly food, non-provision of culturally friendly personal care, non-provisional of culturally orientated death and dying care, stigma for being neglected and perceived poor inclusivity leading to loneliness were found to discourage BSSA research participants from taking up residential care in the UK.

Research limitations/implications

In future, there is need for cross-cultural comparisons of BSSA communities living in the UK and BSSA communities living in Africa or other parts of the world. This may enhance understanding the differences and similarities based on contextual social, political and economic factors.

Practical implications

There is a need to understand the needs and concerns of new communities in relation to residential care and make necessary changes to enhance diversity and inclusivity. More importantly, the curriculum and professional development courses for staff in health and social care need to factor in the concepts of cultural competency and inclusivity to prepare them for the increasingly changing terrain of social care.

Originality/value

Owing to the changing demography and diversity in the UK population, there is a need to re-orient and re-design residential care services provision to make it diverse and inclusive of new communities from other cultures.
Telemedicine system using mobile internet communication
Authors: S. Saravanan , P. Sudhakar
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Telemedicine is delivered to patient anywhere during emergency treatment care, and medical information is transferred from one site of patient to another site of specialist doctors by using mobile internet communication. Some rural areas have slow internet speed because of weak internet signal propagation from mobile towers. A good design of antenna is needed to improve mobile internet speed for big medial data transmission in telemedicine application. Hence, this paper aims to propose economically low-cost design of antenna.

Design/methodology/approach

Telemedicine recommended to design the satellite frequency modulation dish (SAT FMD) antenna ( where in FM radio antenna, dish antenna are combined ) to improve the internet speed at Telemedicine system and Hospitals for purpose of Telemedicine communication and information for emergency treatment.

Findings

In the proposed system, designed SAT FMD satellite-based antenna improved internet speed is achieved at 90.6% accuracy in this research method. Finding latitude and longitude angles to identify the patient location, nearest hospitals location and finding distance, shortest path routing between patient and hospital. Finding elevation, Azimuth, latitude, longitude, skew for alignment dish to focus satellite and mobile cell tower to improve internet speed at telemedicine area and hospitals and reduced transmission delay and nodal delay of big medical data.

Social implications

The social awareness among people can be shared information of accident patient to communicate Hospital and Ambulance driver by internet mobile app tools and help find nearest hospitals to emergency treatment for accident people.

Originality/value

This paper presents SAT FMD antenna model based on satellite dish antenna consisting of FM radio receiver antenna and dish antenna for telemedicine communication.
Lifting the lid on disruption fever
Authors: Wade Michael , Bonnet Didier C-L , Shan Jialu
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper provides evidence based quantification of both “actual” disruption of industries as well as a measure of disruption “hype”. The data cover a seven-year period from 2012 to 2018 across 12 industries. The authors’ complemented the research with a survey of 2000 business executives. Whereas there has been some measures of disruption in the past, no research to the authors’ knowledge has been conducted that measure both actual disruption and disruption hype.

Design/methodology/approach

The current fascination with disruption hides an awkward truth, we assume it is happening, but do we really know for sure? Disruption is rarely defined and almost never measured. Equally, the influence of the hype around disruption is hard to gauge. The authors do not know to what extent hype is driving management action. This is worrisome as the disruption “noise level” can lead to unhealthy collective thinking and bad business decision-making. Some rigour is required. To craft winning strategies, executives should take a more evidence-based approach for managing disruption.

Findings

The authors’ failed to find evidence of any correlation between the hype around an industry disruption and actual disruption within that industry. So the important conclusion for executives is “do not believe the hype”. We found some surprising differences by industry between actual disruption and the hype by industry.

Research limitations/implications

Disruption is one of the most talked about subject in the field of strategy, yet there is little quantification. With this research, the authors’ aim is to advance the fact-based understanding of disruption. Disruption hype is never measured but has a strong influence on executives. The authors have quantified hype using online, search, social media and survey sources. Much more is needed to be able to measure hype more accurately.

Practical implications

The authors’ recommend a set of practical guidelines for executives to support fact-based strategy formulation: analysis of actual disruption, scenario planning and strategic responses.

Social implications

The “noise” around industry disruption is so high that it is assumed to happen. Much of what is written is quasi-fake news. The authors need to rebalance the debate with fact-based analysis.

Originality/value

To authors’ knowledge, there has never been any fact-based analysis of both actual and hype disruption levels.
Meaning of “employee happiness” within the context of complex organisations? An explanatory review on the UAE labour force
Authors: Benuyenah Vic , Pandya Bharti
Published: July 2020

Purpose

In this study, the authors build on the current frameworks of happiness provided by the PERMA model, the World Happiness Report Index and the theoretical framework provided by the proponents of job-satisfaction model, motivation, employee engagement and commitment. The authors argue that, the existing theoretical framework in the management and the HR literature are just different aspects of a common goal – happiness. This position is consistent with the overall happiness projects championed by governments across the world, including the UK, Bhutan, several Scandinavian nations and essentially the United Arab Emirates. A chasm that currently exists in the literature is the availability of a universally acceptable definition for happiness and protocols for measuring happiness. The authors conclude that more research is required to keep pace with industry development relating to employee happiness initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

Using quasi-literature review, the authors analysed selected studies on the theory of happiness to identify how each have treated the concept of happiness in organisations.

Findings

It is erroneous to promote national or international happiness initiatives without starting from the micro level – in this case, the institutions of society should start measuring happiness from the micro level to help understand what happiness actually means.

Research limitations/implications

As an opinion piece, its recommendations need to be applied cautiously.

Originality/value

Till date, only a few studies have explored the concept of happiness from micro-organisational level.
Introduction: Regulation and Oversight of Digital Campaigning—Problems and Solutions
Authors: Dommett Katharine
Published: July 2020

The regulation of digital technology is gaining increased attention within policy making circles. With growing recognition of the power held by digital media companies and the need to enforce democratic values online, policy makers are reviewing opportunities for oversight. Introducing a special section looking at the regulation of digital election campaigning, this article reviews the case for regulatory reform, the proposed type of regulatory change, and the practice of regulatory innovation. Noting the pace of digital change, it argues that there is a need to think more extensively about the design of any regulatory response in order to prevent systems of oversight becoming obsolete.
Sex is associated with the persistence of non‐optimal vaginal microbiota following treatment for bacterial vaginosis: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Ratten LK , Plummer EL , Murray GL , Danielewski J , Fairley CK , Garland SM , Hocking JS , Tachedjian G , Chow EPF , Bradshaw CS , Vodstrcil LA
Published: July 2020

Objective

Determine the associations between factors and sexual practices and the composition of the vaginal microbiome (VM) of women treated for bacterial vaginosis (BV).

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

The Melbourne Sexual Health Centre, Melbourne, Australia.

Population

Seventy‐five reproductive‐age women diagnosed with clinical BV, treated with first‐line antibiotics and followed for up to 6 months.

Methods

Women self‐collected vaginal swabs and completed questionnaires at enrolment, the day following antibiotics and monthly for up to 6months until BV recurrence or no BV recurrence (n = 430 specimens). Bacterial composition was determined using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. The effects of ongoing factors on VM composition (utilising 291 monthly specimens) were assessed using generalised estimating equations population‐averaged models, which accounted for repeated measures within individuals.

Main outcome measures

The relative abundance of vaginal bacterial taxa.

Results

Women who reported ongoing sex with a regular sexual partner (RSP) had a VM comprised of increased relative abundance of non‐optimal BV‐associated bacteria (Adjusted co‐efficient [Adjusted co‐eff] = 11.91, 95% CI 3.39to20.43, P = 0.006) and a decreased relative abundance of optimal, Lactobacillus species (Adjusted co‐eff = −12.76, 95% CI −23.03 to −2.49, P = 0.015). A history of BV was also associated with a decreased relative abundance of Lactobacillus spp. (Adjusted co‐eff = −12.35, 95% CI −22.68, P = 0.019). The relative abundance of Gardnerella, Atopobium and Sneathia spp. increased following sex with an RSP.

Conclusions

Sex with an untreated RSP after BV treatment was associated with a VM comprised of non‐optimal BV‐associated bacteria. BV treatment approaches may need to include partner treatment if they are to achieve a sustained optimal VM associated with improved health outcomes.

Tweetable abstract

Sex drives a return to a ‘non‐optimal’ vaginal microbiota after antibiotics for bacterial vaginosis.
Do physician incentives increase patient medication adherence?
Authors: Kong Edward , Beshears John , Laibson David , Madrian Brigitte , Volpp Kevin , Loewenstein George , Kolstad Jonathan , Choi James J.
Published: July 2020

Objective

To test the effectiveness of physician incentives for increasing patient medication adherence in three drug classes: diabetes medication, antihypertensives, and statins.

Data Sources

Pharmacy and medical claims from a large Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan from January 2011 to December 2012.

Study Design

We conducted a randomized experiment (911 primary care practices and 8,935 nonadherent patients) to test the effect of paying physicians for increasing patient medication adherence in three drug classes: diabetes medication, antihypertensives, and statins. We measured patients’ medication adherence for 18 (6) months before (after) the intervention.

Data collection/extraction methods

We obtained data directly from the health insurer.

Principal Findings

We found no evidence that physician incentives increased adherence in any drug class. Our results rule out increases in the proportion of days covered by medication larger than 4.2 percentage points.

Conclusions

Physician incentives of $50 per patient per drug class are not effective for increasing patient medication adherence among the drug classes and primary care practices studied. Such incentives may be more likely to improve measures under physicians’ direct control rather than those that predominantly reflect patient behaviors. Additional research is warranted to disentangle whether physician effort is not responsive to these types of incentives, or medication adherence is not responsive to physician effort. Our results suggest that significant changes in the incentive amount or program design may be necessary to produce responses from physicians or patients.
Polysaccharide isolated from Auricularia auricular‐judae (Bull.) prevents dextran sulfate sodium‐induced colitis in mice through modulating the composition of the gut microbiota
Authors: Zhao Di , Dai Wenjing , Tao Heng , Zhuang Wei , Qu Mi , Chang Ya‐Ning
Published: July 2020

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic intestinal disease, which was commonly found in westerners whereas is increasingly prevalent in Asia because of the changing eating habits. In previous research, we found that a water‐soluble polysaccharide isolated from Auricularia auricular‐judae (Bull.)—a kind of edible mushroom (Aap)—is composed of β‐1,3 glycosidic bonds, which is regarded as therapeutic or protective substance in enteritis. We therefore aimed to find the preventing effect of Aap on IBD. Here, we reported that pre‐administration of Aap not only ameliorated weight loss, colon damage, and mucosal inflammation in colitis mice, but also prevented the damage of intestinal barrier by reducing the D‐lactic acid and diamine oxidase level in plasma. Through high‐throughput sequencing, we found that Aap changed gut microbiota composition. Furthermore, the preventing effect was transmissible via horizontal feces transfer from Aap‐treated mice to normal mice. Our results indicated that oral administration of Aap is a promising protective substance of IBD.

Practical Application

Our study proved that Auricularia auricula polysaccharide had substantial preventing effect on DSS‐induced colitis in mice. This research might lay the theoretical foundation and technical support for the development of related functional foods. People could also enhance their gut immunity by eating Auricularia auricular in their daily life. Auricularia auricular as a highly nutritious agricultural product showed the broad significance in nutrition and food function.
Differences in outflow channels between two eyes of unilateral primary congenital glaucoma
Authors: Gupta Viney , Singh Abhishek , Pandya Ishan , Sofi Rayees , Sen Seema , Somarajan Bindu I. , Gupta Shikha , Nag Tapas C.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) occurs in only one eye in some patients. We aimed to characterize anatomical features of the angle and Schlemm’s canal (SC) in vivo among fellow eyes of patients with unilateral primary congenital glaucoma.

Methods

Both eyes of 33 children with unilateral PCG and 30 healthy, age‐matched children, old enough to co‐operate were analysed using high‐resolution anterior segment spectral domain (SD) OCT. Subgroup analysis was done for the presence/absence of angle dysgenesis as defined by the presence of abnormal tissue/hyper‐reflective membrane within angle recess and/or the absence of SC. Other anatomical landmarks differentiating the fellow eyes from eyes with glaucoma were also evaluated and compared with healthy subjects.

Results

The presence of abnormal tissue at the angle and/or a hyper‐reflective membranous structure covering the meshwork was seen in all affected PCG eyes (100%) and in 21 (63%) unaffected fellow eyes; p = 0.001. The SC could be seen in 8 (24%) affected in comparison with 29 (88%) fellow unaffected eyes; p = 0.001. The ASOCT scans of 54 (90%) healthy eyes and 3 (9%) fellow PCG eyes revealed a direct communication of anterior portion of the SC with the anterior chamber. Among the fellow eyes, a communication of the supraciliary space with anterior chamber could be discerned in 26 eyes (79%).

Conclusions

Despite angle dysgenesis, outflow channels such as the uveoscleral or a direct communication of SC with the anterior chamber play a role in preventing the development of glaucoma in fellow eyes of unilateral PCG.
Ellipsoid zone optical intensity reduction as an early biomarker for retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Gong Yuting , Chen Li Jia , Pang Chi Pui , Chen Haoyu
Published: July 2020

Purpose

To investigate photoreceptor degeneration in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) by quantitatively analysing optical intensity of ellipsoid zone (EZ) on optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

We conducted OCT line scans of the horizontal meridian in 24 eyes of 24 RP patients and 30 eyes of 30 healthy controls and obtained longitudinal reflectance profiles using ImageJ at every 5 pixels. Relative optical intensity was calculated from dividing the peak of EZ by the mean of the whole retina.

Results

The optical intensity of EZ variation followed a similar pattern in all patients. It decreased with eccentricity and then vanished, regardless whether it was normal or reduced at the fovea. The mean relative optical intensity of EZ in RP patients was 0.69 ± 0.13 to that of control subjects at the location just before it disappeared. The relative optical intensity of EZ at fovea was significantly correlated with the best‐corrected visual acuity in patients (r = −0.617, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The optical intensity of EZ detected by OCT can serve as a biomarker for early detection of photoreceptor degeneration in RP.
The effect of orally administered glycerol on anterior chamber depth during cataract surgery in eyes with narrow anterior chambers
Authors: Nissen Kristoffer , Jørgensen Jesper Skovlund , Nørregaard Jens Christian , Storr‐Paulsen Allan , Bach‐Holm Daniella
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Cataract surgery on eyes with shallow anterior chambers may be demanding. Glycerol intake prior to surgery has been a well‐known method in an effort to increase anterior chamber depth. It is used since it is thought that glycerol as an osmotic agent causes the vitreous body to shrink, pulling back the iris and thereby deepening the anterior chamber – making the surgery easier. Our controlled clinical trial tests this hypothesis and investigates the effect of glycerol on anterior chamber depth (ACD), intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal thickness (CCT), pupil diameter change after viscodilation (PD), operating time and perioperative complications.

Methods

We performed a controlled clinical trial. All patients underwent cataract surgery on both eyes with at least 7 days apart. Preoperatively the patient was given glycerol orally when the right eye was operated – when the left eye was operated, nothing was given. In this way, each patient was serving as its own control. Measurements of ACD, IOP and CCT were performed before and after glycerol intake, pupillary diameter was measured before and after viscoelastics during the operation, and operating time and surgical complications were noted.

Results

The study included 22 patients with bilateral cataract and anterior chambers depth <2.5 mm. Glycerol caused the anterior chamber to increase by 0.022 mm (p < 0.05), and IOP was lowered by 5.1 mmHg compared to the control group (p < 0.05). However, exposure to glycerol showed no effect on CCT, pupillary dilation of viscoelastics, operating time or surgical complications.

Conclusion

Glycerol increases anterior chamber depth and lowers intraocular pressure significantly. These changes had no significant impact on operating time nor on the complication rate, suggesting that these changes are too subtle to have a clinical impact on the cataract procedure.
Three‐dimensional design of a geometric model for an ocular prosthesis in ex vivo anophthalmic socket models
Authors: Ruiters Sébastien , Shujaat Sohaib , de Faria Vasconcelos Karla , Shaheen Eman , Jacobs Reinhilde , Mombaerts Ilse
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Fitting a customized ocular prosthesis for anophthalmic patients entails an artisanal labour‐exhausting process and is standardly based on impression moulding of the socket, which may be anatomically inaccurate. The objective of the study was to design an impression‐free socket mould with three‐dimensional (3D) technology.

Methods

The ex vivo anophthalmic socket models included one silicone, one fresh pig cadaver head and three fresh‐frozen human cadaver heads. After intra‐socket application with iodine substance, five observers obtained eighteen low‐dose cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans and one observer one high‐dose CBCT scan of each model. The observers designed non‐impression 3D moulds of the socket with 3D software. For the human cadaver sockets 3D geometric models of the ocular prosthesis were rendered from the 3D mould of the socket and the mirrored cornea of the contralateral eye.

Results

The posterior surface of the 3D mould was highly accurate, with a mean absolute deviation of 0.28 mm, 0.53 mm, 0.37 mm and mean upper deviation of 0.53 mm, 0.86 mm, 1.17 mm, respectively, for the phantom, pig and human model. The intra‐ and interobserver repeatability and reproducibility of the 3D moulds and designs was good (<0.35 mm). The largest variation in the 3D geometric model was found at the junction of the 3D mould and mirrored cornea.

Conclusion

3D design of an impression‐free geometric model for an ocular prosthesis with low‐dose CBCT is highly accurate in ex vivo anophthalmic socket models. This novel method is a critical step towards the manufacturing of 3D printed ocular prostheses and requires validation in anophthalmic patients.
The use of human artificial gametes and the limits of reproductive freedom
Authors: Gooßens Dustin
Published: July 2020

Recent developments in generating gametes via in vitro gametogenesis (IVG) from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and their successful use for reproductive purposes in animals strongly suggest that soon these methods could also be used in human reproduction. At least two questions emerge in this context: (a) if a legislator should permit their use and (b) if ethical claims emerge that support their provision, e.g., by public health care systems. This urges an ethical reflection of the new reproductive options this technique might offer. Since the concept of reproductive freedom is a key aspect for the ethical evaluation of artificial reproductive technologies (ARTs), it is necessary to analyze if the new possibilities emerging from IVG fall within the scope of this concept. The results may constitute a morally relevant difference between different imaginable applications of IVG and potentially justify differences in claims to access this technology.
Long‐term follow‐up of children with risk organ‐negative Langerhans cell histiocytosis after 2‐chlorodeoxyadenosine treatment
Authors: Barkaoui Mohamed‐Aziz , Queheille Emma , Aladjidi Nathalie , Plat Geneviève , Jeziorski Eric , Moshous Despina , Lambilliotte Anne , Kebaili Kamila , Pacquement Hélène , Leverger Guy , Mansuy Ludovic , Entz‐Werlé Natacha , Bodet Damien , Schneider Pascale , Pagnier Anne , Lutun Anne , Gillibert‐Yvert Marion , Millot Fréderic , Toutain Fabienne , Reguerre Yves , Thomas Caroline , Tazi Abdelatif , Emile Jean‐François , Donadieu Jean , Héritier Sébastien
Published: July 2020

The nucleoside analogue, 2‐chlorodeoxyadenosine (2CDA), was reported to be an active treatment for childhood Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) without risk organ (RO−) involvement. However, we lack data on long‐term effects of 2CDA treatment, including the disease reactivation rate, permanent sequelae and long‐term tolerance. This study included 44 children from the French LCH registry, treated for a RO− LCH with 2CDA monotherapy (median number of six courses). The median age at the beginning of 2CDA was 3·6 years (range, 0·3–19·7 years) and the median follow‐up after was 5·4 years (range, 0·6–15·1 years). Objective response to 2CDA was observed in 25 patients (56·8%), while six patients (13·6%) had stable disease and 13 patients (29·5%) exhibited progressive disease. Among patients without progression, only two experienced disease reactivation after 2CDA discontinuation. The five‐year cumulative incidence of disease progression or reactivation after 2CDA therapy initiation was 34·3%. The lymphopenia reported in all cases [72% below absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) of 0·5 G/l], was addressed with appropriate prophylactic measures. Other toxicities above grade 2 were uncommon, and no second malignant neoplasm or neuropathy was reported. The five‐year overall survival was 97·7%. In conclusion, we could confirm that 2CDA monotherapy was a beneficial long‐term therapy for treating patients with RO− LCH. Appropriate management of induced immune deficiency is mandatory.
Preference for Intuition and Deliberation in Eating Decision‐making: Scale validation and associations with eating behaviour and health
Authors: König Laura M. , Sproesser Gudrun , Schupp Harald T. , Renner Britta
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Two distinct lines of research separately regard either deliberately regulated eating or intuitive eating as most beneficial for health. The present research aims to integrate these seemingly contradictory findings by investigating the relationships between Preference for Intuition and Deliberation in Eating Decision‐making (E‐PID) and subjective and objective health‐related parameters using a newly developed scale.

Design

Study 1: online survey; Study 2: cross‐sectional community cohort sample.

Methods

Study 1 (N = 699) assessed E‐PID, intuitive, restrained, and external eating, motivation to eat healthily, domain‐unspecific Preference for Intuition and Deliberation, and general self‐control. Study 2 (N = 1,212) assessed E‐PID, positive eating, intention to eat healthily, eating behaviour, and objective health risk factors (BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, fasting serum glucose, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides).

Results

Study 1 confirmed a two‐factor structure and provided evidence for construct validity: A higher preference for intuition was positively related to intuitive eating, while a higher preference for deliberation was associated with increased dietary restraint. In Study 2, preference for deliberation was positively related to the intention to eat healthy, healthy eating behaviour, and health parameters. Preference for intuition was generally unrelated to health parameters, although a higher preference for intuition was related to a somewhat unhealthier eating pattern.

Conclusions

Preference for intuition and deliberation when making food choices are two distinct decision‐making styles: The former focuses on internal cues, while the latter focuses on cognitive regulation of food intake. Despite these differences, neither decision‐making style was shown to be detrimental.