bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do you see what I know? On reasons, perceptual evidence, and epistemic status
Authors: Littlejohn Clayton
Published: September 2020

Our epistemology can shape the way we think about perception and experience. Speaking as an epistemologist, I should say that I don't necessarily think that this is a good thing. If we think that we need perceptual evidence to have perceptual knowledge or perceptual justification, we will naturally feel some pressure to think of experience as a source of reasons or evidence. In trying to explain how experience can provide us with evidence, we run the risk of either adopting a conception of evidence according to which our evidence isn't very much like the objects of our beliefs that figure in reasoning (e.g., by identifying our evidence with experiences or sensations) or the risk of accepting a picture of experience according to which our perceptions and perceptual experiences are quite similar to beliefs in terms of their objects and their representational powers. But I think we have good independent reasons to resist identifying our evidence with things that don't figure in our reasoning as premises and I think we have good independent reason to doubt that experience is sufficiently belief‐like to provide us with something premise‐like that can figure in reasoning. We should press pause. We shouldn't let questionable epistemological assumptions tell us how to do philosophy of mind. I don't think that we have good reason to think that we need the evidence of the senses to explain how perceptual justification or knowledge is possible. Part of my scepticism derives from the fact that I think we can have kinds of knowledge where the relevant knowledge is not evidentially grounded. Part of my scepticism derives from the fact that there don't seem to be many direct arguments for thinking that justification and knowledge always requires evidential support. In this paper, I shall consider the three arguments I've found for thinking that justification and knowledge do always require evidential support and explain why I don't find them convincing. I think that we can explain perceptual justification, rationality, and defeat without assuming that our experiences provide us with evidence. In the end, I think we can partially vindicate Davidson's (notorious) suggestion that our beliefs, not experiences, provide us with reasons for forming further beliefs. This idea turns out to be compatible with foundationalism once we understand that foundational status can come from something other than evidential support.
“You got to eat, but then what you are eating, it’s going to kill you”: Living with hypertension while experiencing homelessness
Authors: Groton Danielle B. , Leavitt Mary A. , Opalinski Andra S.
Published: September 2020

Heart disease, including hypertension, is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among persons experiencing homelessness (PEH). PEH exhibit a greater number of modifiable risk factors for hypertension than the general population and are challenged to reach optimal blood pressure control despite receiving medical treatment. This descriptive qualitative study used data collected from three focus groups to explore the barriers and facilitators of self‐management of hypertension while experiencing homelessness. Participants discussed co‐morbidity, limited food choices, medication issues, stress, and negative health care provider experiences as the biggest barriers toward self‐management of hypertension. To address the barriers described above, participants discussed strategies to manage their medications, healthy eating, exercise, social support, and reducing stress. Strategies for health care practitioners and shelter providers to reduce barriers to self‐management of hypertension among PEH are discussed.
Biomarkers of the early response to treatment of visceral leishmaniasis: A prospective cohort study
Authors: S. Lima Simone , Cavalcante Braz Débora , Costa Silva Vladimir , J. C. Farias Teresinha , Zacarias Danielle Alves , da Silva Jailthon Carlos , Costa Carlos Henrique Nery , Costa Dorcas Lamounier
Published: September 2020

Background

Early biomarkers of the response to treatment are lacking and may help to reduce mortality by the vector‐borne disease visceral leishmaniasis (VL).

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted to investigate plasma cytokines and clinical laboratory data as biomarkers of the early response to specific treatment for VL in 36 patients.

Results

The mean interleukin 6 (IL‐6) concentration on the 7th day was 2.3% of the pre‐treatment concentration, interleukin 10 (IL‐10) was 8.0%, and interleukin 8 (IL‐8) was 8.2%. On the 7th day, IL‐10 was below half of the pre‐treatment concentration in 100.0%, IL‐8 in 95.5% and IL‐6 in 90.9%. The spleen and liver sizes, haemoglobin, interleukin 1 beta (IL‐1β) and tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) showed a slower recovery. Fever disappeared in 91% on the 7th day, 69.4% had a normal white cell count, and 77.8% had a normal platelet value by this time.

Conclusions

The plasma cytokines IL‐6, IL‐10 and IL‐8 were demonstrated to be excellent markers of the early response to VL treatment and if tested before the 7th day, will likely prove to be better than fever measurement.
Folates in legume root nodules
Authors: Banuelos Jacob , Martínez‐Romero Esperanza , Montaño Noé Manuel , Camargo‐Ricalde Sara Lucía
Published: September 2020

Folates are multifunctional metabolites in plants that are essential for cell division, nucleic acids and amino acid synthesis. During symbiotic nitrogen fixation in legumes, these cofactors are needed for de novo purine biosynthesis, meaning that changes in the folate pools could directly affect the flow of fixed nitrogen to the plant. Its role related to symbiotic nitrogen fixation has not been yet explored, but recent data suggest a relevant role during the first steps. Transcriptomic, metabolomic and proteomic analyses indicate that folates are accumulated in symbiotic plant tissue, as they are involved, not only in de novo purines biosynthesis, but in nitrogen translocation, endoreduplication and phytohormones biosynthesis. Understanding the possible implication of folate pools during the nitrogen fixation and assimilation, might aid for new engineering targets, in relation to the two transformylations or the production of glycine by serine hydroxymethyltransferase during the de novo purine biosynthetic pathway. In this review, we intend to deliver and discuss the available evidence that support a relevant role of folates during the symbiotic nitrogen fixation.
Who to whom and why: The social nature of emotional mimicry
Authors: Hess Ursula
Published: September 2020

The goal of this manuscript is to provide support for the notion that emotional mimicry is a social act. For this, I will provide a brief overview of recent developments in the domain of emotional mimicry research. I will present the mimicry in social context model of mimicry and evidence for four predictions that set this theory apart. Specifically, based on a review of the literature on emotional mimicry, I conclude that we do not mimic the specific muscle movements we observe, but rather we mimic what we infer from these movements. Furthermore, emotional mimicry only occurs when the expresser and observer share the intention to affiliate. Hence, we are less likely to mimic strangers and do not mimic people we do not like. Interactions in which affiliative mimicry occurs are perceived as more positive, but interactions in which mimicry is antagonistic as more negative. This supports the three social functions proposed here: Affiliation, Emotional understanding, and Social regulation.
The Robustness of National Agency Governance in Integrated Administrative Systems: Evidence from a large‐scale study
Authors: Trondal Jarle , Haslerud Gjermund , Kühn Nadja S.
Published: September 2020

This article examines government agencies facing choice architectures that are multiple, overlapping, ambiguous, and sometimes incompatible—in short: turbulent. It makes two contributions: First, two conceptual images of agency governance are outlined that derive distinct predictions on how agencies are likely to maneuver when embedded in integrated multilevel administrative orders. Secondly, benefitting from a large‐Ndataset on agency officials (N= 1,963) from 47 government agencies, the study suggests that government agencies are primarily biased towards a pragmatist compound dynamic. Additionally, the analysis probes the robustness of these conceptual images by entering moderator variables into the analysis. Multiplicative interaction model analysis suggests that the compound dynamic of agency governance is robust because no moderator variables fundamentally transform relationships from one governance type to another.
Impact of Abstract Versus Concrete Conceptualization of Genetic Modification (GM) Technology on Public Perceptions
Authors: Tallapragada Meghnaa , Hardy Bruce W. , Lybrand Evan , Hallman William K.
Published: September 2020

Based on the scholarship of abstract/concrete cognition, mental schema, and the integrated model of behavior change, this study found that using concrete over abstract language increased support for specific genetically modified (GM) applications and GM in general, and improved intentions to purchase products containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs). An online survey with an embedded 3 × 2 experiment was conducted using a national sample of U.S. adults (N = 1,470). Participants were randomly assigned to conditions that varied in abstract/concrete conceptualization of GMOs and were prompted to assess GM risk and benefit perceptions with respect to human health and the environment. Regardless of whether they assessed risks or benefits, participants who assessed GMOs through concrete terms compared to abstract terms showed an increase in positive emotions, which in turn increased their support for specific GM applications and GM in general, and their intentions to buy products with GMOs.
National Culture on the Cross‐National Variation of Homicide: An Empirical Application of the Inglehart–Welzel Cultural Map
Authors: Lin Kai , Mancik Ashley M.
Published: September 2020

Although there has been a growing literature on the effects of culture on the cross‐national variation of homicide, this literature remains limited in the operationalization of national culture as well as in the modeling of the cultural effects. Adopting a multidimensional measure of national culture developed in the World Values Survey, this study examines the effects of various aspects of national culture, as well as their interaction, on the cross‐national variation of homicide. The findings of this study provide evidence for the effect of national culture on homicide variation across countries while painting a more complex picture about the potential mechanisms of these effects.
Determinants of social assistance caseloads for employable single adults without dependants in Canada
Authors: Falvo Nick , Jadidzadeh Ali
Published: September 2020

Government officials like the idea of just a small number of households in their respective jurisdiction receiving social assistance. A large number is seen as costly to the public treasury, and declining caseloads are generally viewed as a mark of success for both the economy and the government of the day. But what factors account for the size of a Canadian province's social assistance caseload? This article aims to shed light on this question, with a focus on single adults without dependants (and without serious disabilities) during the 1989–2017 period. One important finding is that when the value of social assistance benefit levels for this group increases by 1% in a province, the social assistance caseload for this demographic rises by 0.457%. Put differently, there is indeed an important behavior response associated with higher benefit levels. In response, we propose that provincial officials budget for higher take up levels when they increase benefit levels for this household group.
Identification of the novel HLA‐A*02:406 allele in a Chinese individual
Authors: Feng Zhi‐Hui , Song Xiangbao , Chi Xiaoyun , Jiao Shu‐Xian
Published: September 2020

HLA‐A*02:406 was initially identified in a volunteer donor for China Marrow Donor Program.
Pulmonary complications of transfusion: Changes, challenges, and future directions
Authors: Grey Sharran , Bolton‐Maggs Paula
Published: September 2020

The pulmonary complications of transfusion (TACO, TRALI and TAD) are the leading cause of transfusion‐related mortality and major morbidity. Advance in this area is essential in improving transfusion safety. This review describes the drivers for change in haemovigilance practice, the influence of recent key publications and future directions.
Survey to assess knowledge, attitude and practices for safe and efficient vein‐to‐vein transfusion practices and effect of educational intervention in a hospital setting
Authors: Pandey Prashant , Setya Divya , Suresh Arya , George Geobin , Chaudhary Chhavi , Kumar Praveen , Ranjan Shweta
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The primary aim was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of employees (medical, paramedical and other hospital staff) towards blood donation and transfusion practices in a tertiary care hospital. A secondary objective was to assess and interpret the effect of an educational module on improvement in the KAP of employees in a hospital setting.

Background

For satisfactory practices, it is essential to initiate KAP studies.

Methods/materials

This was a prospective, observational study conducted among hospital staff (clinical and non‐clinical) from January to December 2019. The study was divided into two phases: pre‐educational module (P1) and post‐educational module (P2). In both phases, a questionnaire was distributed. Knowledge was assessed by 30 questions, attitude by 20 questions and practice by 30 questions. If any individual had unsatisfactory scores in both the P1 and P2 phases (scores <40; 50%), they had to participate in a mandatory certificate course.

Results

A total of 180 individuals participated in the P1 and 172 participated in the P2 phase. Mean score for practice (0.471) was better than that for attitude (0.447) and knowledge (0.43). Factors associated with good scores were younger age group, more than 5 years of employment and clinical field of study. The total score for KAP increased, and a statistically significant difference (P‐value < .05) was observed between P1 and P2 scores. Of 172 participants, 27 were asked to attend the 2‐week certificate course due to unsatisfactory scores (score < 40) in both P1 and P2 phases. These 27 participants required attending this certificate course a mean of 1.67 ± 0.83 times to obtain satisfactory scores.

Conclusion

Educational intervention is an important tool for improving KAP among not only physicians but hospital staff as well.
Predictors of receiving a diagnosis, referral and treatment of depression in people on antiretroviral therapy in South African primary care: a secondary analysis of data from a randomised trial
Authors: Zani B. , Fairall L. , Petersen I. , Folb N. , Bhana A. , Thornicroft G. , Hanass‐Hancock J. , Lund C. , Bachmann M. ,   the CobALT Research Team
Published: September 2020

Objective

To describe the receipt of a diagnosis, referral and treatment for depression in people receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART), with depressive symptoms and attending primary care clinics in South Africa, and investigate factors associated with receiving these components of care.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of data from a randomised controlled trial of an intervention intended to improve detection and treatment of depression in primary care patients receiving ART. In this analysis, we combined cross‐sectional and longitudinal data from the intervention and control arms. Using regression models and adjusting for intra‐cluster correlation of outcomes, we investigated associations between socioeconomic characteristics, depressive symptoms, stress, disability and stigma, and receipt of a diagnosis, referral and treatment for depression.

Results

Of 2002 participants enrolled, 18% reported a previous diagnosis of depression by a healthcare worker and 10% reported having received counselling from a specialist mental health worker. Diagnosis, referral and counselling during the follow‐up period were appropriately targeted, being independently more frequent in participants with higher enrolment scores for depressive symptoms, stress or disability. Participants with higher stigma scores at enrolment were independently less likely to receive counselling. Severe socio‐economic deprivation was common but was not associated with treatment.

Conclusion

While the receipt of a diagnosis, referral and treatment for depression were uncommon, they seemed to be appropriately targeted. Socio‐economic deprivation was not associated with treatment.
Validation of predictive models identifying patients at risk for massive transfusion during liver transplantation and their potential impact on blood bank resource utilization
Authors: Pustavoitau Aliaksei , Rizkalla Nicole A. , Perlstein Brooke , Ariyo Promise , Latif Asad , Villamayor April J. , Frank Steven M. , Merritt William T. , Cameron Andrew M. , Philosophe Benjamin , Ottmann Shane , Garonzik Wang Jacqueline M. , Wesson Russell N. , Gurakar Ahmet , Gottschalk Allan
Published: September 2020

Background

Intraoperative massive transfusion (MT) is common during liver transplantation (LT). A predictive model of MT has the potential to improve use of blood bank resources.

Study Design and Methods

Development and validation cohorts were identified among deceased‐donor LT recipients from 2010 to 2016. A multivariable model of MT generated from the development cohort was validated with the validation cohort and refined using both cohorts. The combined cohort also validated the previously reported McCluskey risk index (McRI). A simple modified risk index (ModRI) was then created from the combined cohort. Finally, a method to translate model predictions to a population‐specific blood allocation strategy was described and demonstrated for the study population.

Results

Of the 403 patients, 60 (29.6%) in the development and 51 (25.5%) in the validation cohort met the definition for MT. The ModRI, derived from variables incorporated into multivariable model, ranged from 0 to 5, where 1 point each was assigned for hemoglobin level of less than 10 g/dL, platelet count of less than 100 × 109/dL, thromboelastography R interval of more than 6 minutes, simultaneous liver and kidney transplant and retransplantation, and a ModRI of more than 2 defined recipients at risk for MT. The multivariable model, McRI, and ModRI demonstrated good discrimination (c statistic [95% CI], 0.77 [0.70‐0.84]; 0.69 [0.62‐0.76]; and 0.72 [0.65‐0.79], respectively, after correction for optimism). For blood allocation of 6 or 15 units of red blood cells (RBCs) based on risk of MT, the ModRI would prevent unnecessary crossmatching of 300 units of RBCs/100 transplants.

Conclusions

Risk indices of MT in LT can be effective for risk stratification and reducing unnecessary blood bank resource utilization.
In situ c‐KIT mRNA quantification of canine cutaneous mast cell tumours and its relationship to prognostic factors
Authors: Seung Byung‐Joon , Cho Seung‐Hee , Kim Soo‐Hyeon , Bae Min‐Kyung , Lim Ha‐Young , Sur Jung‐Hyang
Published: September 2020

Cutaneous mast cell tumours (MCTs) are the most frequent malignant skin tumours in dogs. Mutations in the c‐KIT proto‐oncogene are correlated with the pathogenesis and aggressiveness of MCTs. To date, studies have focused on c‐KIT mutations and KIT protein localization, with a general lack of mRNA‐level analyses. In this study, c‐KIT mRNA expression was investigated in canine MCTs by RNA in situ hybridization (RNA‐ISH). Furthermore, we evaluated associations between c‐KIT mRNA expression and the histological grade, KIT immunohistochemical staining pattern and other clinicopathological parameters. c‐KIT mRNA expression was observed in all MCT samples, appearing as clusters of dots in the cytoplasm of neoplastic cells. A significant correlation was detected between c‐KIT mRNA expression (quantified according to the H‐score and the percentage of positive cells) and the histological grade (determined using two‐and three‐tier grading systems; P < .05). We also found a significant positive correlation (all P < .05) between c‐KIT mRNA expression and the proliferation indices (mitotic index, Ki‐67, and Ag67). However, no significant associations with c‐KIT expression from RNA‐ISH were found with respect to different KIT staining patterns. Overall, these results demonstrate that c‐KIT mRNA expression might be an additional tool for measuring the c‐KIT status in canine cutaneous MCTs and could serve as a potential prognostic factor. Further studies should evaluate the prognostic significance of c‐KIT mRNA expression in a large and uniform cohort of canine MCTs.
Serum albumin and total protein concentration in the tear film of horses with healthy or diseased eyes
Authors: Terhaar Hannah M. , Allbaugh Rachel A. , Mochel Jonathan P. , Sebbag Lionel
Published: September 2020

Objective

To determine total protein content (TPC) and serum albumin levels in the tears of horses with healthy or diseased eyes.

Animals studied

Forty‐two horses with healthy eyes and 11 horses with unilateral (n = 10) or bilateral (n = 1) ocular disease.

Procedure

Each eye underwent an ophthalmic examination including detailed conjunctivitis scoring and tear collection with Schirmer strips. TPC and serum albumin levels were quantified in tear samples and compared among healthy eyes, affected eyes, and contralateral unaffected eyes. The impact of the following variables on lacrimal protein levels were assessed: age, breed, and sex (healthy eyes), as well as conjunctivitis score (diseased eyes).

Results

Lacrimal TPC ranged from 7.0 to 19.5 mg/mL in healthy eyes, while serum albumin ranged from 71.1 to 711.3 µg/mL (~1.6% of TPC) and was higher in tears of aged and female horses (P ≤ .033). Eyes with ocular disease had significantly greater (P ≤ .001) serum albumin in tears (median 679.6 µg/mL) compared to contralateral unaffected eyes (130.0 µg/mL) and eyes of the reference population (200.7 µg/mL). However, lacrimal TPC did not differ significantly among the 3 groups. Scoring of palpebral conjunctival hyperemia trended toward a positive association with serum albumin in tears (r = 0.49, P = .062).

Conclusions

The protein profile in equine tears differs in health and disease. Serum albumin in tears increases with ocular disease and, similar to other species, might serve as a biomarker for ocular insult in horses. Future studies could investigate the protein levels in horses with specific ocular conditions and help determine the biological importance of albumin on the equine ocular surface.
SEMANTIC-BASED DISCOVERY FRAMEWORK FOR WEB SERVICES IN MOBILE COMPUTING ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Saadon Nor Azizah , Mohamad Radziah
Published: September 2020

As the number of Mobile Web Services (MWS) with different specifications has increased, the task of discovering the relevant ones becomes more challenging in a mobile environment. The challenges include mobile devices constraints and web service descriptions itself. The issues can be considered from the aspect of mobile device’s performance, diversity of available MWS specifications and lack of enriched MWS descriptions. In order to address these issues, this paper presents an enhancement of semantic-based MWS discovery framework for discovering the most relevant MWS that takes into consideration of Non-Functional Properties (NFPs) in web service descriptions. In our work, the matchmaking algorithm with enhanced similarity measure is presented. Semantic MWS profiles are annotated semantically as a WSMO-Lite profile with a REST-based architecture. The experimental validation and statistical analysis demonstrates that the proposed framework can effectively discover relevant MWS according to the various user requirements. It can be concluded that using the proposed framework, there is a significant improvement in the effectiveness of semantic-based discovery for MWS in mobile computing environments.
STRATEGY FOR SCALABLE SCENARIOS MODELING AND CALCULATION IN EARLY SOFTWARE RELIABILITY ENGINEERING
Authors: Ali Awad , N. A. Jawawi Dayang , Isa Mohd Adham
Published: September 2020

System scenarios derived from requirements specification play an important role in the early software reliability engineering. A great deal of research effort has been devoted to predict reliability of a system at early design stages. The existing approaches are unable to handle scalability and calculation of scenarios reliability for large systems. This paper proposes modeling of scenarios in a scalable way by using a scenario language that describes system scenarios in a compact and concise manner which can results in a reduced number of scenarios. Furthermore, it proposes a calculation strategy to achieve better traceability of scenarios, and avoid computational complexity. The scenarios are pragmatically modeled and translated to finite state machines, where each state machine represents the behaviour of component instance within the scenario. The probability of failure of each component exhibited in the scenario is calculated separately based on the finite state machines. Finally, the reliability of the whole scenario is calculated based on the components’ behaviour models and their failure information using modified mathematical formula. In this paper, an example related to a case study of an automated railcar system is used to verify and validate the proposed strategy for scalability of system modeling.
Mathematical Tools for Building Setup-Maps to Optimally Locate Each Casting in a Machining Fixture: Case Study With Minimum Wall Thickness
Authors: Kalish N. J. , Davidson J. K. , Shah Jami J. , Shah Jiten V.
Published: September 2020

A novel combination of mathematical tools underlies a method to lower cost of the first fixture-setup required to finish-machine surfaces on large castings or weldments where components will be attached. The computer-aided design (CAD) model, tolerance specifications, process plan, and design of the fixture, including configuration of the locators, are given. The math tools are used to build algorithms for a digital model, the Setup-Map© (S-Map©), that predictively captures all allowable locator adjustments needed to position and orient each part in its fixture before machining begins. The S-Map in this paper is generated for a case-study design, a cast valve-body with two to-be-machined (TBM) features, but the math tools are general so the same methods could be applied directly, or easily adapted, to other designs and fixture schemes. Geometric variations at the TBM features are represented with Tolerance-Maps© (T-Maps©) that are constructed with higher-dimensional linear half-spaces. The T-Maps are shifted to be aligned with, and offset from, one-sided simulated envelopes derived from scans of corresponding features on each casting. Linear programming identifies the setup-point that is chosen to most evenly distribute the required amount of machining over all the TBM features. Inverse kinematics of parallel robots is used to convert the setup-point to custom settings at the fixture locators for each casting. The half-space construction enables the identification of TBM features that have insufficient material and require repair. The algorithms were validated with 13 castings.
Novel Modifications of Nonribosomal Peptides from Brevibacillus laterosporus MG64 and Investigation of Their Mode of Action
Authors: Li Zhibo , de Vries Reinder H. , Chakraborty Parichita , Song Chunxu , Zhao Xinghong , Scheffers Dirk-Jan , Roelfes Gerard , Kuipers Oscar P.
Published: September 2020

NRPs form a class of secondary metabolites with biocontrol and pharmaceutical potential. This work describes the identification of novel bogorol variants and succinylated bogorols (namely, succilins) and further investigates their biosynthetic pathway and mode of action. Adenylation domain-mediated lipoinitiation of bogorols represents a novel pathway by which NRPs incorporate fatty acid tails. This pathway provides the possibility to engineer the lipid tail of NRPs without identifying a fatty acid coenzyme ligase, which is usually not present in the biosynthetic gene cluster. The terminal reductase domain (TD) and BogI-mediated valinol formation and their effect on the biological activity of bogorols are revealed. Succinylation, which is rarely reported in NRPs, was discovered in the bogorol family of peptides. We demonstrate that bogorols combat bacterial pathogens by forming pores in the cell membrane. We also report the synergistic effect of two natural products (relacidine B and bogorol K) produced by the same strain, which is relevant for competition for a niche.
Beyond Toxin Transport: Novel Role of ABC Transporter for Enzymatic Machinery of Cereulide NRPS Assembly Line
Authors: Gacek-Matthews A. , Chromiková Z. , Sulyok M. , Lücking G. , Barák I. , Ehling-Schulz M.
Published: September 2020

This study revealed a novel, potentially conserved mechanism involved in the biosynthesis of microbial natural products, exemplified by the mitochondrial active depsipeptide cereulide. Similar to other bioactive substances, such as the last-resort antibiotics vancomycin and daptomycin, the antitumor drug cryptophycin or the cholesterol-lowering agent lovastatin, cereulide is synthesized nonribosomally by multienzyme machinery, requiring the concerted actions of multiple proteins to ensure correct product assembly. Given the importance of microbial secondary metabolites in human and veterinary medicine, it is critical to understand how these processes are orchestrated within the host cells. By revealing that tethering of a biosynthetic enzyme to the cell membrane by an ABC transporter is essential for nonribosomal peptide production, our study provides novel insights into synthesis of microbial secondary metabolites, which could contribute to isolation of novel compounds from cryptic secondary metabolite clusters or improve the yield of produced pharmaceuticals.
Endogenous Viral Element-Derived Piwi-Interacting RNAs (piRNAs) Are Not Required for Production of Ping-Pong-Dependent piRNAs from Diaphorina citri Densovirus
Authors: Nigg Jared C. , Kuo Yen-Wen , Falk Bryce W.
Published: September 2020

Small RNAs serve as specificity determinants of antiviral responses in insects. Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a class of small RNAs found in animals, and their primary role is to direct antitransposon responses. These responses require endogenous piRNAs complementary to transposon RNA. Additionally, piRNAs have been shown to target RNA and DNA viruses in some mosquito species. In contrast to transposons, targeting of viruses by the piRNA pathway in these mosquito species does not require endogenous piRNAs. Here, we show that piRNAs target a DNA virus, but not RNA viruses, in an agricultural insect pest. We found that targeting of this DNA virus did not require endogenous piRNAs and that endogenous piRNAs did not mediate targeting of an RNA virus with which they shared complementary sequence. Our results highlight differences between mosquitoes and our experimental system and raise the possibility that DNA viruses may be targeted by piRNAs in other species.
Gene Dispensability in Escherichia coli Grown in Thirty Different Carbon Environments
Authors: Tong Madeline , French Shawn , El Zahed Sara S. , Ong Wai kit , Karp Peter D. , Brown Eric D.
Published: September 2020

While there has been much study of bacterial gene dispensability, there is a lack of comprehensive genome-scale examinations of the impact of gene deletion on growth in different carbon sources. In this context, a lot can be learned from such experiments in the model microbe
Escherichia coli
where much is already understood and there are existing tools for the investigation of carbon metabolism and physiology (1). Gene deletion studies have practical potential in the field of antibiotic drug discovery where there is emerging interest in bacterial central metabolism as a target for new antibiotics (2). Furthermore, some carbon utilization pathways have been shown to be critical for initiating and maintaining infection for certain pathogens and sites of infection (3–5). Here, with the use of high-throughput solid medium phenotyping methods, we have generated kinetic growth measurements for 3,796 genes under 30 different carbon source conditions. This data set provides a foundation for research that will improve our understanding of genes with unknown function, aid in predicting potential antibiotic targets, validate and advance metabolic models, and help to develop our understanding of
E. coli
metabolism.
Size Shapes the Active Microbiome of Methanogenic Granules, Corroborating a Biofilm Life Cycle
Authors: Trego Anna Christine , O’Sullivan Sarah , Quince Christopher , Mills Simon , Ijaz Umer Zeeshan , Collins Gavin
Published: September 2020

Biological wastewater conversion processes collectively constitute one of the single biggest worldwide applications of microbial communities. There is an obvious requirement, therefore, to study the microbial systems central to the success of such technologies. Methanogenic granules, in particular, are architecturally fascinating biofilms that facilitate highly organized cooperation within the metabolic network of the anaerobic digestion (AD) process and, thus, are especially intriguing model systems for microbial ecology. This study, in a way not previously reported, provoked syntrophic and methanogenic activity and the structure of the microbial community, using specific substrates targeting the key trophic groups in AD. Unexpectedly, granule size more strongly than substrate shaped the active portion of the microbial community. Importantly, the findings suggest the size, or age, of granules inherently shapes the active microbiome linked to a life cycle. This provides exciting insights into the function of, and the potential for additional modeling of biofilm development in, methanogenic granules.
Comparing ‘Twitter’ polls results with an online survey on surgeons perspectives for the treatment of rectal cancer
Authors: Caycedo-Marulanda Antonio , Patel Sunil V , Verschoor Chris P , Chadi Sami A , Möslein Gabriela , Raval Manoj , Lightner Amy , Chand Manish , Jimenez-Rodriguez Rosa , Knol Joep , Maeda Yasuko , Monson John R T , Wexner Steven D , Mayol Julio
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Traditional surveys (including phone, mail and online) can be valuable tools to obtain information from specific communities. Social media apps such as Twitter are being increasingly adopted for knowledge dissemination and research purposes. Twitter polls are a unique feature which allows for a rapid response to questions posed. Nonetheless Twitter does not constitute a validated survey technique. The objective was to compare the similarities of Twitter polls in describing practice patterns for the treatment of rectal cancer.

Methods

A survey on the management of rectal cancer was designed using modified Delphi methodology. Surgeons were contacted through major colorectal societies to participate in an online survey. The same set of questions were periodically posted by influencers on Twitter polls and the results were compared.

Results

A total of 753 surgeons participated in the online survey. Individual participation in Twitter ranged from 162 to 463 responses. There was good and moderate agreement between the two methods for the most popular choice (9/10) and the least popular choice (5/10), respectively.

Discussion

It is possible that in the future polls available via social media can provide a low-cost alternative and an efficient, yet pragmatic method to describe clinical practice patterns. This is the first study comparing Twitter polls with a traditional survey method in medical research.

Conclusions

There is viable opportunity to enhance the performance of research through social media, however, significant refinement is required. These results can potentially be transferable to other areas of medicine.
Mapping the links between climate change and human health in urban areas: how is research conducted? A Scoping review protocol
Authors: Barbosa Hiago Pereira , Roué-Le Gall Anne , Deloly Clément , Regnaux Jean-Philippe , Thomas Marie-Florence
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Scientists from a wide variety of fields of knowledge are increasingly interested in climate change issues. The importance given to the phenomenon is explained by the uncertainties surrounding it and its consequences not yet fully known. However, there is wide agreement that human activities are modifying the Earth’s climate beyond the natural cyclical changes and that these changes impact human health. This scoping review aimed to understand how research on the links between climate change and human health in urban areas is conducted and how this research is approached holistically or not.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review is mainly guided by the Arskey and O’Malley scoping review framework. A broad range of databases will be used, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science Core Collection, GreenFILE and Information Science & Technology Abstracts. Predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria will be used, with a focus on climate change and human health outcome studies published between January 1990 and July 2019. An interdisciplinary team has formulated search strategies and the reviewers will independently screen eligible studies for final study selection. We will apply a thematic analysis to evaluate and categorise the study findings. We expect to map the research according to the scientific research methods, the scientific fields and the determinants of health studied. Along these lines, we will be able to understand how holistic the research is.

Ethics and dissemination

No primary data will be collected since all data presented in this review are based on published articles and publicly available documents. Therefore, ethics committee approval is not a requirement. The findings will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal, presentations at conferences relevant to the field of this research, as well as presentations to relevant stakeholders.
Comparing responses to public health and industry-funded alcohol harm reduction advertisements: an experimental study
Authors: Brennan Emily , Schoenaker Danielle A J M , Durkin Sarah J , Dunstone Kimberley , Dixon Helen G , Slater Michael D , Pettigrew Simone , Wakefield Melanie A
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Conduct a head-to-head experimental test of responses to alcohol harm reduction advertisements developed by alcohol industry Social Aspects/Public Relations Organisations (SAPROs) versus those developed by public health (PH) agencies. We hypothesised that, on average, SAPRO advertisements would be less effective at generating motivation (H1) and intentions to reduce alcohol consumption (H2) but more effective at generating positive perceptions of people who drink (H3).

Design

Online experiment with random assignment to condition.

Participants

2923 Australian adult weekly drinkers (49% high-risk drinkers) recruited from an opt-in online panel.

Interventions

Participants viewed 3 of 83 advertisements developed by PH agencies (n=2174) or 3 of 28 advertisements developed by SAPROs (n=749).

Primary outcome measures

Participants reported their motivation to reduce the amount of alcohol consumed; behave responsibly and/or not get drunk; and limit their drinking around/never supply to minors, as well as intentions to avoid drinking alcohol completely; reduce the number of drinking occasions; and reduce the amount of alcohol consumed per occasion. Participants also reported their perceptions of people who drink alcohol on six success-related items and four fun-related items.

Results

Compared with drinkers exposed to PH advertisements, those exposed to SAPRO advertisements reported lower motivation to reduce the amount of alcohol consumed (β=−0.091, 95% CI −0.171 to −0.010), and lower odds of intending to avoid alcohol completely (OR=0.77, 0.63 to 0.94) and to reduce the amount of alcohol consumed per occasion (OR=0.82, 0.69 to 0.97). SAPRO advertisements generated more favourable fun-related perceptions of drinkers (β=0.095, 0.013 to 0.177).

Conclusions

The alcohol harm reduction advertisements produced by alcohol industry SAPROs that were tested in this study were not as effective at generating motivation and intentions to reduce alcohol consumption as those developed by PH organisations. These findings raise questions as to whether SAPROs should play a role in alcohol harm reduction efforts.
Healthy eating and physical activity environments in out-of-school hours care: an observational study protocol
Authors: Crowe Ruth , Probst Yasmine , Norman Jennifer , Furber Susan , Franco Lisa , Stanley Rebecca M. , Vuong Cecilia , Wardle Karen , Davies Marc , Ryan Sarah , Okely Anthony D.
Published: September 2020

Introduction

Childcare settings have been widely identified as important venues for promoting healthy lifestyles to children. Out-of-school hours care (OSHC) is a rapidly growing childcare service, yet there has been limited research reported on healthy eating and physical activity (HEPA) environments within the Australian OSHC setting. This research aims to describe the HEPA environments related to foods and beverages served, staff behaviours and child physical activity levels across two local health districts within New South Wales, Australia. This study will provide evidence to support future interventions and policies in Australian OSHC settings.

Methods and analysis

A cross-sectional study design will be used to describe the food and beverages provided and child activity levels, and report on environmental correlates. OSHC programmes will be visited on non-consecutive weekdays between 2018 and 2020. The frequency of foods and beverages offered will be observed and categorised into food groups aligned to the Australian Dietary Guidelines. Children’s physical activity will be measured using ActiGraph wGT3X-BT accelerometers. Staff behaviour will be captured via direct observation and the System for Observing Staff Promotion of Activity and Nutrition. Short interviews with programme directors will gather contextual information about OSHC practices and policies.

Ethics and dissemination

Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed scientific journals, conference presentations and individualised feedback to each participating service. Ethical approval was granted by the University of Wollongong Human Research Ethics Committee (HE17/490).
Characterisation of the environmental presence of hepatitis A virus in low-income and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kuodi Paul , Patterson Jenna , Silal Sheetal , Hussey Gregory D , Kagina Benjamin M
Published: September 2020

Objective

To characterise the environmental presence of hepatitis A virus (HAV) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources

EBSCOhost, PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Clinical Key and Web of Science were searched. Grey literature was sourced by searching the following electronic databases: Open Grey, National Health Research Database and Mednar.

Eligibility criteria for including studies

Cross-sectional and ecological studies reporting HAV environmental presence and conducted in LMICs between January 2005 and May 2019, irrespective of language of publication.

Data extraction and data synthesis

Relevant data were extracted from articles meeting the inclusion criteria, and two reviewers independently assessed the studies for risk of bias. High heterogeneity of the extracted data led to the results being reported narratively.

Results

A total of 2092 records were retrieved, of which 33 met the inclusion criteria. 21 studies were conducted in Tunisia, India and South Africa, and the rest were from Philippines, Pakistan, Morocco, Chad, Mozambique, Kenya and Uganda. In Tunisian raw sewage samples, the prevalence of HAV ranged from 12% to 68%, with an estimated average detection rate of 50% (95% CI 25 to 75), whereas HAV detection in treated sewage in Tunisia ranged from 23% to 65%, with an estimated average detection rate of 38% (95% CI 20 to 57). The prevalence of HAV detection in South African treated sewage and surface water samples ranged from 4% to 37% and from 16% to 76%, with an estimated average detection rates of 15% (95% CI 1 to 29) and 51% (95% CI 21 to 80), respectively. Over the review period, the estimated average detection rate of environmental HAV presence appeared to have declined by 10%.

Conclusion

The quality of included studies was fair, but sampling issues and paucity of data limited the strength of the review findings.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019119592.
Daily struggle to take antiretrovirals: a qualitative study in Papuans living with HIV and their healthcare providers
Authors: Sianturi Elfride Irawati , Latifah Elmiawati , Probandari Ari , Effendy Christantie , Taxis Katja
Published: September 2020

Objective

The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of Papuans living with HIV to take antiretroviral therapy (ART) from the patient and the healthcare providers (HCPs) perspective.

Design

This was a qualitative study covering all five tribes located in Papua Provinces one of two Indonesian provinces on Papua Island. Semistructured interviews were conducted with Papuans living with HIV and their HCPs. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded to find themes.

Results

Overall, we conducted interviews with 13 Papuans living with HIV (mean age: 33 years, 61% female) and 14 HCPs (mean age: 42 years, 64% female) within five customary areas. HCPs included three physicians, nine nurses, two others. Two main themes were identified: (1) personal factors and (2) healthcare environment-related factors. Personal factors were beliefs and knowledge of ART, stigma from family, community and HCPs as well as practical problems such as transportation because of long distance. Within the theme of healthcare environment, the competences and attitudes of HCPs were particularly relevant. The findings are important in refining HIV treatment strategies implemented in Papua, especially when extending HIV care provided by community centres.

Conclusions

Despite free access to ART, Papuans living with HIV struggle to remain on treatment. Considering local culture and religion in strategies to reduce stigma should be a priority.