bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of a visual‐verbal integration model in training parents and their preschool children with intellectual and developmental disabilities to dispense a pea‐sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste
Authors: Zhou Ni , Wong Hai Ming , McGrath Colman
Published: January 2019

Background

A visual‐verbal integration model (VVIM) was used to train parents and their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to dispense a pea‐sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste, aiming to balance the occurrence of dental caries and fluorosis.

Method

Participants were 370 pairs of IDD preschool children and their parents. A two‐phase pre‐post‐intervention study was performed. The weight of toothpaste was calculated by a portable electronic compact balance.

Results

A quarter of parents and <20% children dispensed the appropriate amount at baseline. Almost 85% parents and 50% children achieved the pea‐sized amount after intervention. Half of the children continued to use the recommended toothpaste amount after 6 months. Children with higher intellectual functioning and conceptual skills were more likely to dispense the pea‐sized amount of toothpaste.

Conclusions

Visual‐verbal integration model training had a desired impact on parents’ toothpaste‐dispensing performance. Children with higher adaptive skills may benefit from VVIM training.
Association of interleukin‐27 gene polymorphisms with susceptibility to HIV infection and disease progression
Authors: Pang Xiao‐Xia , Luo Shun‐Da , Zhang Ting , Shi Feng , Wang Chun‐Fang , Chen Xing‐Hong , Wei Yu‐Xia , Qin Li , Wei Jing‐Xi , Luo Xiao‐Qiong , Wang Jun‐Li
Published: January 2019

Interleukin‐27 (IL‐27) gene polymorphisms are linked to infectious disease susceptibility and IL‐27 plasma level is associated with HIV infection. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the association between IL‐27 polymorphisms and susceptibility to HIV infection and disease progression. A total of 300 patients with HIV infection (48 long‐term nonprogressors and 252 typical progressors) and 300 healthy controls were genotyped for three IL‐27 polymorphisms, rs17855750, rs181206, rs40837 which were performed by using multiple single nucleotide primer extension technique. Significant association was found between IL‐27 rs40837 polymorphisms with susceptibility to HIV infection (AG vs AA: adjusted OR = 1.60, 95% CI, 1.11‐2.30, P = 0.012; AG+GG vs AA: adjusted OR = 1.44, 95% CI, 1.02‐2.03, P = 0.038) and disease progression (LTNP: AG vs AA: adjusted OR = 2.33, 95% CI, 1.13‐4.80, P = 0.021; TP: AG vs AA: adjusted OR = 1.50, 95% CI, 1.04‐2.24, P = 0.030). Serum IL‐27 levels were significantly lower in cases compared to controls (P < 0.001). There were lower serum IL‐27 levels in TPs than in LTNPs (P < 0.001). We further found that LTNPs with rs40837 AG or GG genotype had lower serum IL‐27 levels than with AA genotype (P < 0.05). The CD4+T counts in cases were significantly lower than controls (P < 0.001). In contrast, individuals with rs40837 AG genotype had lower CD4+T counts than with AA genotype in cases (P < 0.05). In addition, CD4+T counts in TPs were significantly lower than LTNPs (P < 0.001). IL‐27 rs40837 polymorphism might influence the susceptibility to HIV infection and disease progression probably by regulating the level of serum IL‐27 or the quantity of CD4+T.
Acne relapses: impact on quality of life and productivity
Authors: Dreno B. , Bordet C. , Seite S. , Taieb C. ,   for the ‘Registre Acné’ Dermatologists
Published: January 2019

Background

Acne is a common skin disease that mostly affects teenagers, with a negative impact on quality of life. Recently, adult acne and acne relapses have increased in frequency, for yet unknown reasons.

Objective

This non‐interventional, real‐life study sought to investigate the rate of acne relapses and their impact on quality of life and productivity (loss/absenteeism) among teenagers and adults.

Methods

An online self‐administered questionnaire was proposed to ≥15‐year‐olds suffering from acne who spontaneously consulted their dermatologist. To ensure homogeneous assessment of acne severity, the global acne severity scale was applied. Quality of life was assessed via Cardiff Acne Disability Index (CADI), SF12‐physical score and SF12‐mental score questionnaires. Productivity loss or absenteeism in middle/high school was estimated based on the number of days off work or school over the last 30 days.

Results

Overall, 1048 questionnaires were considered assessable, with 448 (43%) mild acne, 434 (41%) moderate acne and 166 (16%) severe acne. Overall, 755 (72%) participants were in middle/high school, 267 (25%) employed and 26 (3%) with no professional activity. Considering the population by age groups, 68% (n = 716) were ≤20‐year‐olds and 32% (n = 332) >20‐year‐olds, with a mean age of 20.26 (SD: 7.43) years. Acne relapses were reported by 44% of respondents. Analyses revealed that poorer quality of life scores was observed in acne relapsers vs. non‐relapsers, with a significant difference for CADI scores (P < 0.01) in >20‐year‐olds. Acne‐related absenteeism was recorded in 5.7% of cases. On multivariate analyses, after adjusting for other variables, acne relapse was proven a significant determinant of absenteeism/productivity loss.

Conclusion

This real‐life study first demonstrated acne relapse rates of 44%, which appeared to be generation‐dependent, affecting 39.9% of ≤20‐year‐olds vs. 53.3% of >20‐year‐olds. Acne relapses were significantly associated with impaired quality of life and productivity loss/absenteeism.
Juvenile ecthyma gangrenosum caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa revealing an underlying neutropenia: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Wuyts L. , Wojciechowski M. , Maes P. , Matthieu L. , Lambert J. , Aerts O.
Published: January 2019

Background

Ecthyma gangrenosum (EG) is characterized by the occurrence of erythematous, violaceous or haemorrhagic macules and/or vesicles, often evolving into necrotic ulcers, with a central grey–black eschar. It is a rare skin condition, usually occurring in immunocompromised patients suffering from bacterial sepsis caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. However, seemingly healthy children have been diagnosed with this skin disease as well.

Objectives

We report the workup of a case of vulvar EG caused by P. aeruginosa in a toddler, which led to a diagnosis of an underlying neutropenia. Moreover, we provide a brief literature review on those cases of EG where an underlying primary immunodeficiency, neutropenia in particular, was eventually diagnosed.

Methods

A one‐and‐a‐half‐year‐old girl presented with a history of recurrent (respiratory) infections and the sporadic occurrence of purpuric, vulvar ulcers. Workup consisted of microbiological and haematological investigations, including repeated blood analyses.

Results

Bacterial swabs from the vulvar ulcers showed the growth of P. aeruginosa. No concomitant sepsis was present, but laboratory investigations pointed towards a cyclic neutropenia, coinciding with the occurrence of the EG lesions. Topical gentamicin ointment allowed the skin lesions to heal faster. Following the administration of granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF), the girl experienced less infections in general and had no recurrence of EG lesions in particular. Treatment with G‐CSF could eventually be stopped, and the neutropenia, ultimately transient in nature, completely resolved.

Conclusion

Children presenting with (anogenital) EG should always alert a physician to consider a potentially underlying immunodeficiency, neutropenia in particular.
Trichoscopic signs in systemic lupus erythematosus: a comparative study with 109 patients and 305 healthy controls
Authors: Suchonwanit P. , Udompanich S. , Thadanipon K. , Chanprapaph K.
Published: January 2019

Background

Hair and scalp involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can manifest as scarring alopecia, non‐scarring alopecia or scalp/hair shaft changes without apparent hair loss. While trichoscopic signs in chronic cutaneous lupus are well established, data on SLE patients with normal‐looking or non‐scarring scalp are limited.

Objectives

To investigate trichoscopic features of SLE patients without chronic cutaneous scalp lesions and compare the findings with normal controls, as well as determine which feature associates with systemic disease. Furthermore, we aim to explore different clinical presentations of the scalp in SLE patients and their association with disease activity.

Methods

Trichoscopic photographs were taken from patients and healthy controls and evaluated by one blinded hair specialist. For SLE patients, their clinical presentations and evaluations for cutaneous, extracutaneous involvement; SLE Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI‐2K) score were documented.

Results

Of 109 SLE patients and 305 healthy controls were included. Hair shaft changes were significantly more common in SLE and associated with higher SLEDAI‐2K (P < 0.05). The most common feature was prominent arborizing blood vessels (60.6% vs. 18.4%, P < 0.001), followed by thick arborizing blood vessels (57.8% vs. 10.2%, P < 0.001), black dots (47.7% vs. 2%, P < 0.001), brown scattered pigmentation (5.5% vs. 0.7%, P = 0.005) and blue–grey speckled pigmentation (44% vs.0.3%, P < 0.001). When hair loss is diffuse and severe, there were associations with haematologic (P = 0.002) and renal involvement (P = 0.027 for proteinuria > 500 mg/day, P = 0.004 for proteinuria > 1 g/day).

Conclusions

Trichoscopic examination is a valuable tool for SLE diagnosis and monitoring. Severe diffuse non‐scarring alopecia most likely indicates active disease.
Crossed looks on the dermatologist's position and the patient's preoccupations as to psoriasis and pregnancy: preliminary results of the PREGNAN‐PSO study
Authors: Maccari F. , Fougerousse A.‐C. , Esteve E. , Frumholtz L. , Parier J. , Hurabielle C. , Cassius C. , Taieb C. ,   the GEM RESOPSO and the AJDerm
Published: January 2019

Background

While some information on psoriasis impact on pregnancy is available, very little is known on the preoccupations of women afflicted by the disease or on the dermatologists’ (D) positioning as to psoriasis and pregnancy. The ‘Objectifs Peau’ project demonstrated a 4.7% prevalence of psoriasis in women aged 18–45 years in France.

Objective

This project sought to further address these issues in view of a targeted action plan.

Methods

A questionnaire was made available to 361 D of different types.

Results

Overall, 152 D answered the questionnaire, 50.7% working in private or mixed practice and 49.3% in hospitals, with 63% females (DF) and 37% males (DM). Over the last 3 months, the mean percentage of women of child‐bearing age seen by these D was 28.6%. The main issue addressed by D upon psoriasis diagnosis was the patient's wish to become pregnant in the short‐term (84%), while the compatibility of drug treatment with pregnancy was the issue prioritized by patients (64%). Among DM and DF, 46% and 29% reported having been confronted with an unplanned pregnancy, with their reaction mainly dependent on the treatment taken in 66%. Regarding follow‐up, 26% D declared having shared their decision‐making with gynaecologists, while 56% considered the first pregnancy trimester to be the highest‐risk period. Only 28% D were familiar with existing recommendations, with only 21% of them considering them appropriate.

Conclusion

Overall, 26.2% of French psoriasis women are of child‐bearing potential, in line with our dataset (28.6%). Only 56% D considered the 1st pregnancy trimester to be the highest‐risk period, with only one‐third familiar with existing recommendations. The gap between recommendations and actual practices must be addressed through policies that take women's preoccupations better into account.
The Relative Effectiveness of Spot and Derivatives‐Based Intervention
Authors: NEDELJKOVIC MILAN , SABOROWSKI CHRISTIAN
Published: January 2019

This paper studies the relative effectiveness of foreign exchange intervention in spot and derivatives markets. We use Brazilian data where spot and nondeliverable futures intervention have been used in tandem for more than a decade. The analysis finds evidence of a link between both modes of intervention and the exchange rate. In line with theory, the impact of spot intervention is strikingly similar to that of futures intervention when convertibility risk is limited. We show that both types of interventions also affect the level and the price of hedging risk in the foreign exchange market.
Effects of blood transfusion on regional tissue oxygenation in preterm newborns are dependent on the degree of anaemia
Authors: Aktas Selma , Ergenekon Ebru , Ozcan Ebru , Aksu Meltem , Unal Sezin , Hirfanoglu Ibrahim M , Turkyilmaz Canan , Onal Esra , Koc Esin , Atalay Yildiz
Published: January 2019

Aim

Most of the preterm infants are transfused at least once during their stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The aims of this study were to demonstrate if packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusion modulates regional (cerebral, abdominal, renal) tissue oxygen saturation measured by near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and to demonstrate if we can use NIRS to guide transfusion decisions in neonates.

Methods

A multi‐probe NIRS device was applied to anaemic preterm infants of gestational age <33 weeks for 30–60 min before and 24 h after pRBC transfusion. We evaluated the results separately in the subgroup with a pre‐transfusion haemoglobin (Hb) < 8 g/dL. Cerebral, abdominal and renal tissue oxygen saturation (rSO2) and abdominal/cerebral, abdominal/renal and renal/cerebral rSO2 ratios before and 24 h after transfusion were compared.

Results

There was no significant difference in cerebral rSO2 and abdominal/renal rSO2 ratios before and 24 h after transfusion, but abdominal and renal rSO2 and abdominal/cerebral and renal/cerebral rSO2 ratios at the 24th h following transfusion increased significantly. This increase was observed in the subgroup with pre‐transfusion Hb < 8 g/dL. Although statistically significant, the increase in renal oxygenation was within the limits of variability.

Conclusions

The increase in tissue oxygenation in abdominal region after pRBC transfusion suggests decreased tissue oxygenation of intestines during severe anaemia despite cerebral oxygenation being maintained at that particular Hb level. The impact of the increase on renal oxygenation with pRBC transfusion is unclear and might need further investigation. Increase in abdominal rSO2 may cause reperfusion injury, oxidative damage and trigger necrotising enterocolitis.
Participation constraints of matching mechanisms
Authors: Liu Weifeng
Published: January 2019

Matching mechanisms have been proposed to improve public good provision in voluntary contributions. However, such decentralized subsidizing mechanisms may not be Pareto‐improving and may suffer from incomplete information and incredible commitment. This paper examines participation constraints of matching mechanisms with small matching rates in two cases of equilibria. At interior equilibria, there always exist small Pareto‐improving matching schemes regardless of preferences. This universal existence is useful for cooperation among heterogeneous players in the context without global information of preferences or at the international level without central governments. At corner equilibria, matching schemes work in different ways and have distinct welfare effects in certain cases, and the existence of Pareto‐improving matching schemes is not universal but is possible under certain conditions. The paper further characterizes Pareto‐improving matching schemes, and shows that it is easier to reach Pareto‐improving matching outcomes if players value more on public goods and have stronger substitution between private and public goods.
Cost-effectiveness of interferon therapy for multiple sclerosis in Peru: impact of treatment adherence
Authors: Bolaños-Díaz Rafael , Sanabria-Montañez César , Custodio-Capuñay Nilton
Published: January 2019

Objective

To analyse the cost-effectiveness (C-E) of interferon therapy for MS and the impact of adherence associated with a patient support programme (PSP).

Methods

Markov model was structured based on systematic review of the evidence and the opinion of local experts. The model has three health states: (1) Baseline treatment (BT), (2) Interferon-β (IFN) with patient support programme (PSP) and (3) IFN without PSP. Annual cycles were considered, with a time horizon of 30 years. The analysis perspective was based on the Ministry of Health (MoH).

Key findings

Interferon-β + PSP dominates the treatment of IFN without PSP. The incremental C-E rate (ICER) for IFN + PSP was estimated at S/. 26 408 per Quality Adjusted Life Year (QALY) in relation to BT. IFN without PSP was dominated by the IFN + PSP treatment. The cost per QALY of IFN + PSP was below the payment threshold in almost 100% of the model simulations. The acceptability curves show that the treatment with PSP + IFN is probabilistically more cost effective from a payment threshold of 1.25 annual Gross Domestic Product per capita (GDP-pc). The Tornado analysis for the ICER between IFN + PSP and BT shows that the most sensitive variables of the model are the relative risk (RR) for treatment adherence and the cost of IFN + PSP treatment.

Conclusion

The addition of a PSP had a significant effect on adherence and C-E of the intervention. The ICER for IFN + PSP was below 1.5 annual GDP-pc of payment threshold with an incremental cost near to 3 GDP-pc. IFN without PSP was dominated by the IFN + PSP.
Is circadian rhythmicity a prerequisite to coma recovery? Circadian recovery concomitant to cognitive improvement in two comatose patients
Authors: Gobert Florent , Luauté Jacques , Raverot Véronique , Cotton François , Dailler Frédéric , Claustrat Bruno , Perrin Fabien , Gronfier Claude
Published: January 2019

Circadian rhythmicity (CR) is involved in the regulation of all integrated functions, from sleep‐wake cycle regulation to metabolic function, mood and cognition. However, the interdependence of CR, cognition and consciousness has been poorly addressed. To clarify the state of CR in coma and to determine the chronological relationship between its recovery and consciousness after brain lesions, we conducted a longitudinal observational study investigating how the state of CR was chronologically related with the recovery of behavioural wakefulness, cognition and/or awareness. Among 16 acute comatose patients, we recruited two 37‐year‐old patients with a persistent disorder of consciousness, presenting diencephalic lesions caused by severe traumatic brain injuries. Two biological urinary markers of CR were explored every 2 hours during 24 hours (6‐sulfatoxymelatonin, free cortisol) with a dedicated methodology to extract the endogenous component of rhythmicity (environmental light recording, near‐constant‐routine protocol, control of beta‐blockers). They presented an initial absence of rhythmic secretions and a recovered CR 7‐8 months later. This recovery was not associated with the restoration of behavioural wakefulness, but with an improvement of cognition and awareness (up to the minimally conscious state). MRI showed a lesion pattern compatible with the interruption of either the main hypothalamic‐sympathetic pathway or the accessory habenular pathway. These results suggest that CR may be a prerequisite for coma recovery with a potential but still unproven favourable effect on brain function of the resorted circadian melatonin secretion and/or the functional recovery of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). Assessing circadian functions by urinary melatonin should be further explored as a biomarker of cognition reappearance and investigated to prognosticate functional recovery.
Influence of mixed antibiotics on Microcystis aeruginosa during the application of glyphosate and hydrogen peroxide algaecides
Authors: Yu Shikun , Liu Ying , Zhang Jian , Gao Baoyu
Published: January 2019

Antibiotics regulate various physiological functions in cyanobacteria and may interfere with the control of cyanobacterial blooms during the application of algaecides. In this study, Microcystis aeruginosa was exposed to H2O2 and glyphosate for 7 d in the presence of coexisting mixed antibiotics (amoxicillin, spiramycin, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, and sulfamethoxazole) at an environmentally relevant concentration of 100 ng · L−1. The mixed antibiotics significantly (P < 0.05) alleviated the growth inhibition effect of 15–45 μM H2O2 and 40–60 mg · L−1 glyphosate. According to the increased contents of chlorophyll a and protein, decreased content of malondialdehyde, and decreased activities of superoxide dismutase and glutathione S‐transferase, antibiotics may reduce the toxicity of the two algaecides through the stimulation of photosynthesis and the reduction in oxidative stress. The presence of coexisting antibiotics stimulated the production and release of microcystins in the M. aeruginosa exposed to low concentrations of algaecides and posed an increased threat to aquatic environments. To eliminate the secondary pollution caused by microcystins, high algaecide doses that are ≥45 μM for H2O2 and ≥60 mg · L−1 for glyphosate are recommended. This study provides insights into the ecological hazards of antibiotic contaminants and the best management practices for cyanobacterial removal under combined antibiotic pollution conditions.
Parental feeding style changes the relationships between children's food preferences and food parenting practices: The case for comprehensive food parenting interventions by pediatric healthcare professionals
Authors: Vollmer Rachel L.
Published: January 2019

Purpose

To determine if parental feeding styles (emotional environment of the meal) moderate the relationship between food parenting practices (goal‐directed behaviors) and children's preferences for fruits, vegetables, or high fat/sugar foods. Design and Methods: This cross‐sectional descriptive study recruited parents (n = 108) of preschool age children. The parents completed several questionnaires. Linear regressions were used to assess the relationship between food parenting practices and children's food preferences as moderated by feeding style, with the authoritative feeding style serving as the reference.

Results

Parental feeding styles were found to be moderators between several food parenting practices and child food preferences. When compared with parents with the authoritative feeding style (high demands, responds to child's needs), children like vegetables significantly less if indulgent (low demands, responds to child's needs) parents allow children to control their own eating, or authoritarian (high demands, does not respond to child's needs), or uninvolved (low demands, does not respond to child's needs) parents provide a healthy food environment. The authoritative style was not always preferential. For example, children of uninvolved parents who used food as a reward liked vegetables significantly more than children of parents who had the authoritative feeding style who also used food as a reward. In addition, children of authoritarian parents who modeled healthy eating liked foods high in fat and/or sugar significantly less than children of authoritative parents.

Practice Implications

When discussing child diet quality with parents, pediatric nurses should educate parents on both food parenting practices and feeding style, or the meal's emotional climate, as children experience both of these during mealtime interactions. In addition, for educational efforts, it may be advantageous to tailor interventions based upon the parent's feeding style.
Disentangling structural genomic and behavioural barriers in a sea of connectivity
Authors: Barth Julia M. I. , Villegas‐Ríos David , Freitas Carla , Moland Even , Star Bastiaan , André Carl , Knutsen Halvor , Bradbury Ian , Dierking Jan , Petereit Christoph , Righton David , Metcalfe Julian , Jakobsen Kjetill S. , Olsen Esben M. , Jentoft Sissel
Published: January 2019

Genetic divergence among populations arises through natural selection or drift and is counteracted by connectivity and gene flow. In sympatric populations, isolating mechanisms are thus needed to limit the homogenizing effects of gene flow to allow for adaptation and speciation. Chromosomal inversions act as an important mechanism maintaining isolating barriers, yet their role in sympatric populations and divergence with gene flow is not entirely understood. Here, we revisit the question of whether inversions play a role in the divergence of connected populations of the marine fish Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), by exploring a unique data set combining whole‐genome sequencing data and behavioural data obtained with acoustic telemetry. Within a confined fjord environment, we find three genetically differentiated Atlantic cod types belonging to the oceanic North Sea population, the western Baltic population and a local fjord‐type cod. Continuous behavioural tracking over 4 year revealed temporally stable sympatry of these types within the fjord. Despite overall weak genetic differentiation consistent with high levels of gene flow, we detected significant frequency shifts of three previously identified inversions, indicating an adaptive barrier to gene flow. In addition, behavioural data indicated that North Sea cod and individuals homozygous for the LG12 inversion had lower fitness in the fjord environment. However, North Sea and fjord‐type cod also occupy different depths, possibly contributing to prezygotic reproductive isolation and representing a behavioural barrier to gene flow. Our results provide the first insights into a complex interplay of genomic and behavioural isolating barriers in Atlantic cod and establish a new model system towards an understanding of the role of genomic structural variants in adaptation and diversification.
A suite of complementary biocontrol traits allows a native consortium of root‐associated bacteria to protect their host plant from a fungal sudden‐wilt disease
Authors: Santhanam Rakesh , Menezes Riya C. , Grabe Veit , Li Dapeng , Baldwin Ian T. , Groten Karin
Published: January 2019

The beneficial effects of plant‐–bacterial interactions in controlling plant pests have been extensively studied with single bacterial isolates. However, in nature, bacteria interact with plants in multitaxa consortia, systems which remain poorly understood. Previously, we demonstrated that a consortium of five native bacterial isolates protected their host plant Nicotiana attenuata from a sudden wilt disease. Here we explore the mechanisms behind the protection effect against the native pathosystem. Three members of the consortium, Pseudomonas azotoformans A70, P. frederiksbergensis A176 and Arthrobacter nitroguajacolicus E46, form biofilms when grown individually in vitro, and the amount of biofilm increased synergistically in the five‐membered consortium, including two Bacillus species, B. megaterium and B. mojavensis. Fluorescence in situ hybridization and scanning electron microscopy in planta imaging techniques confirmed biofilm formation and revealed locally distinct distributions of the five bacterial strains colonizing different areas on the plant‐root surface. One of the five isolates, K1 B. mojavensis produces the antifungal compound surfactin, under in vitro and in vivo conditions, clearly inhibiting fungal growth. Furthermore, isolates A70 and A176 produce siderophores under in vitro conditions. Based on these results we infer that the consortium of five bacterial isolates protects its host against fungal phytopathogens via complementary traits. The study should encourage researchers to create synthetic communities from native strains of different genera to improve bioprotection against wilting diseases.
Physical and functional interaction between nucleoid‐associated proteins HU and Lsr2 of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: altered DNA binding and gene regulation
Authors: Datta Chandreyee , Jha Rajiv Kumar , Ahmed Wareed , Ganguly Sohini , Ghosh Soumitra , Nagaraja Valakunja
Published: January 2019

Nucleoid‐associated proteins (NAPs) in bacteria contribute to key activities such as DNA compaction, chromosome organization and regulation of gene expression. HU and Lsr2 are two principal NAPs in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). HU is essential for Mtb survival and is one of the most abundant NAPs. It differs from other eubacterial HU proteins in having a long, flexible lysine‐ and arginine‐rich carboxy‐terminal domain. Lsr2 of Mtb is the functional analogue of the bacterial NAP commonly called H‐NS. Lsr2 binds to and regulates expression of A/T‐rich portions of the otherwise G/C‐rich mycobacterial chromosome. Here, we demonstrate that HU and Lsr2 interact to form a complex. The interaction occurs primarily through the flexible carboxy‐terminal domain of HU and the acidic amino‐terminal domain of Lsr2. The resulting complex, upon binding to DNA, forms thick nucleoprotein rods, in contrast to the DNA bridging seen with Lsr2 and the DNA compaction seen with HU. Furthermore, transcription assays indicate that the HU‐Lsr2 complex is a regulator of gene expression. This physical and functional interaction between two NAPs, which has not been reported previously, is likely to be important for DNA organization and gene expression in Mtb and perhaps other bacterial species.
Imagery and Possibility
Authors: Gregory Dominic
Published: January 2019

We often ascribe possibility to the scenes that are displayed by mental or nonmental sensory images. The paper presents a novel argument for thinking that we are prima facie justified in ascribing metaphysical possibility to what is displayed by suitable visual images, and it argues that many of our imagery‐based ascriptions of metaphysical possibility are therefore prima facie justified. Some potential objections to the arguments are discussed, and some potential extensions of them, to cover nonvisual forms of imagery and nonmetaphysical forms of possibility, are endorsed.
Atrial electromechanical delay assessment in early phase after catheter ablation for patients with atrial fibrillation
Authors: Chen Xiaodong , Liu Hailei , Zhang Yi , Wang Chunru , Xu Di , Yang Bing , Ju Weizhu , Zhang Fengxiang , Chen Hongwu , Cao Kejiang , Chen Minglong
Published: January 2019

Background

Variation of atrial electromechanical delay (AED) in early phase after catheter ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) is lacking.

Methods

Fifty‐five consecutive patients restored sinus rhythm after ablation was included. Echocardiography was performed at 4 h, 1 day, and 3 days after radiofrequency catheter ablation, and AED was measured simultaneously by echocardiography with pulse Doppler imaging and pulse wave tissue Doppler imaging.

Results

AED parameters were significantly longer in the nonparoxysmal atrial fibrillation (NPAF) group than in the paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) group at each checking point after ablation (P < 0.05). Compared with other checking points, AED parameters were significantly longer 4 h postablation in the NPAF group, while no significant difference was found between different checking points in the PAF group. AED‐leap, representing the variation of AED in NPAF patients, was significantly positively correlated with the duration of NPAF (r = 0.5291, P = 0.0113).

Conclusions

Compared with PAF, NPAF patients have a longer AED postablation, and an abrupt decrease in the initial–h postablation. Such phenomenon gives rise to the different clinical features of PAF and NPAF, and could guide different assessment and treatment strategies for different types of AF.
From ‘trial and error’ to major reform: The politics of Medicare demonstration projects
Authors: Kelly Andrew S. , Rocco Philip
Published: January 2019

Facing fragmented institutions and partisan polarization, officials in the United States often attempt to engineer policy change without assembling new legislative majorities. To this end, they have increasingly employed demonstration projects, policy innovations undertaken by administrative agencies designed to test alternative approaches to implementation or service delivery on a limited segment of the target population and for a limited period of time. Despite the increasing importance of demonstration projects, they are an undertheorized source of policy change. In this article, we conceptualize demonstration projects as part of a class of experimental institutions that, while incremental in scope, have the potential to ‘scale up’ into more substantial reforms. Data from three Medicare demonstrations suggest that policy change is more likely when programmes generate strong support constituencies; minimize administrative and infrastructural costs; are undertaken in contexts with few veto points; and align with the time horizons of elected officials.
Surgical causes of acute abdominal pain in pregnancy
Authors: Woodhead Natalie , Nkwam Oga , Caddick Virginia , Morad Sharon , Mylvaganam Senthurun
Published: January 2019

Key content

Abdominal pain in pregnancy is common, with a differential diagnosis that can encompass obstetric, surgical and medical conditions.

Presentation of common surgical problems can be atypical in pregnancy, potentially delaying diagnosis.

Surgical causes of abdominal pain to consider in pregnancy include appendicitis, cholecystitis, bowel obstruction, ureteric obstruction, pancreatitis and aneurysm rupture, most commonly involving the splenic artery.

The management of surgical conditions in pregnancy requires continuing evaluation and potential modification to balance the medical, surgical and obstetric challenges.

Management of the pregnant woman with a surgical cause of abdominal pain requires collaborative, multispecialty practice to optimise care of the mother and baby.

Learning objectives

To highlight the differential diagnoses of abdominal pain in pregnancy.

To develop a structured assessment process for pregnant women with abdominal pain.

To update the obstetrician on the priorities of surgical management for abdominal pain in pregnancy.

Ethical issues

Evaluating the risks of surgical interventions on the mother and baby with the high potential for premature delivery.
Urban development, excessive entry of firms and wage inequality in developing countries
Authors: Beladi Hamid , Chao Chi‐Chur , Ee Mong Shan , Hollas Daniel
Published: January 2019

This paper examines the short and long‐term effects of urbanisation, via favourable urban development policies, on income distribution and social welfare for a developing country, in which the urban manufacturing sector is characterised by imperfect competition and free entry. Urbanisation shifts rural workers to the highly productive urban sector, while causing production in urban firms to expand because of scale economies. However, urbanisation may worsen wage inequality between skilled and unskilled labour in the short term. In the long term, urbanisation can attract new firms to the urban sector and favourable urban development policies may result in excessive entry of firms, which can amplify wage inequality in the economy. This entry‐amplifying effect is confirmed empirically, especially for low and lower‐middle‐income countries. If the entry effect is not considered, the impact of urbanisation on wage inequality could be understated by 13% for low and lower‐middle‐income countries.
Characterization of atomic layer deposited semiconducting Co3O4
Authors: Holden Konner E. K. , Conley John F.
Published: January 2019

The authors report on the optical and electrical properties of atomic layer deposited (ALD) Co3O4 on Si, SiO2/Si, and Co/Si substrates using Co(Cp)2 and ozone. Within the ALD temperature window of 175 and 275 °C, the growth per cycle (GPC) on Si is approximately 0.050 nm/cycle. GPC is slightly lower on SiO2 (0.043 nm/cycle) and much higher on Co substrates (0.21 nm/cycle) due to rapid ozone oxidation of Co during ALD. Grazing incidence x-ray diffraction (GIXRD) indicates a randomly oriented polycrystalline Co3O4 phase. The refractive index, measured using variable angle spectroscopic ellipsometry, is found to be ∼2.8 within the ALD window. Optical transitions of 0.76, 1.50, and 2.22 eV are found from absorption analysis. Four-point probe measurements indicate resistivity in the range of 4.1–10.9 Ω cm. GIXRD, refractive index, optical transitions, and resistivity are all consistent with p-type semiconducting Co3O4.
Test–Retest Reliability of a Modified Visual Analog Scale Assessment Tool for Determining Incidence and Severity of Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Response to Exercise Stress
Authors: Gaskell Stephanie K. , Snipe Rhiannon M.J. , Costa Ricardo J.S.
Published: January 2019

Considering the recent growth of exercise gastroenterology research focusing on exercise-induced gastrointestinal syndrome mechanisms, response magnitude, prevention and management strategies, the standardized assessment of gastrointestinal symptoms (GIS) is warranted. The current methodological study aimed to test the reliability of a modified visual analog scale for assessing GIS during exercise, in response to a variety of exertional-stress scenarios, with and without dietary intervention. Recreational endurance runners (n = 31) performed one of the three exercise protocols, which included: 2-hr running at 70% in temperate (24.7 °C) ambient conditions, with fluid restriction; 2-hr running at 60% in hot (35.1 °C) ambient conditions, while consuming chilled water immediately before and every 15 min during exercise; and 2-hr running at 60% in temperate (23.0 °C) ambient conditions, while consuming 30 g/20 min carbohydrate (2∶1 glucose∶fructose, 10% temperate w/v), followed by a 1-hr distance test. GIS was monitored pre-exercise, periodically during exercise, and immediately postexercise. After wash out, participants were retested in mirrored conditions. No significant differences (p > .05) were identified between test–retest using Wilcoxon signed-rank test for all GIS (specific and categorized), within each exercise protocol and the combined protocols. Strong correlations were observed for gut discomfort, total GIS, upper GIS, and nausea (rs = .566 to rs = .686; p < .001), but not for lower GIS (rs = .204; p = .232). Cohen’s magnitude of difference was minimal for all GIS (specific δ < 0.14 and categorized δ < 0.08). The modified visual analog scale for assessing GIS during exercise appears to be a reliable tool for identifying incidence and severity of GIS in cohort populations and is sensitive enough to detect exertional and intervention differences.
Does a Novice Technician Produce Results Similar to That of an Experienced DXA Technician When Assessing Body Composition and Bone Mineral Density?
Authors: Persson Carl , Shiel Flinn , Climstein Mike , Furness James
Published: January 2019

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry is a commonly used clinical assessment tool for body composition and bone mineral density, which is gaining popularity in athletic cohorts. Results from body composition scans are useful for athletic populations to track training and nutritional interventions, while bone mineral density scans are valuable for athletes at risk of developing stress fractures due to low bone mineral density. However, no research has ascertained if a novice technician (accredited but not experienced) could produce similar results to an experienced technician. Two groups of recreational athletes were scanned, one by an experienced technician, one by a novice technician. All participants were scanned twice with repositioning between scans. The experienced technician’s reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = .989–.998; percentage change in mean = −0.01 to 0.10), precision (typical error as coefficient of variation percentage = 0.01–0.47; SEM% = 0.61–1.39), and sensitivity to change (smallest real difference percentage = 1.70–3.85) were similar; however, superior to those of the novice technician. The novice technician results were reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = .985–.997; percentage change in mean = −0.03 to 0.23), precision (typical error as coefficient of variation percentage = 0.03–0.75; SEM% = 1.06–2.12), and sensitivity to change (smallest real difference percentage = 2.73–5.86). Extensive experience, while valuable, is not a necessary requirement to produce quality results when undertaking whole-body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scanning.
Dietary Practices Adopted by Track-and-Field Athletes: Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP, Vegetarian, and Fasting
Authors: Lis Dana M. , Kings Daniel , Larson-Meyer D. Enette
Published: January 2019

Some track-and-field athletes implement special diets aiming to improve health and/or performance. An evidence-based approach to any diet is recommended to minimize the risks associated with unnecessary dietary restriction, which may potentially do more harm than good. Four prevalent diets are reviewed in this study: (a) gluten-free; (b) low fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAP); (c) vegetarian; and (d) fasting diets. Recently, gluten-free diets and low FODMAP diets have emerged as novel regimes thought to improve gastrointestinal health and reduce the risk of exercise-associated gastrointestinal symptoms. No direct beneficial outcomes have been associated with avoiding gluten for clinically healthy athletes. Indirectly, a gluten-free diet is associated with other dietary changes, particularly FODMAP reduction, which may improve adverse gastrointestinal symptoms. Vegetarian diets can optimally support athletic demands. However, attention is required to ensure adequate energy and intake of specific nutrients that are less abundant or less well absorbed from plant sources. Finally, fasting is a long-standing concept that is undertaken on a voluntary and obligatory basis. Despite limited supporting research, voluntary fasting is a popular alternative to conventional diets perceptually offering health and body composition benefits. Strict obligatory fasting guidelines likely require the implementation of tailored nutrition strategies to help athletes cope with athletic demands. Overall, a multitude of factors influence adherence to special diets. Even when adherence to a special diet is a necessity, education and advice from an accredited dietitian/nutritionist are recommended for track-and-field athletes to optimize nutrition for health and performance.
Shutdown starts to take a bite out of science
Authors: Malakoff David
Published: January 2019

As agency closures enter third week, effects ripple across research community.
Ships banned from throwing unwanted fish overboard
Authors: Stokstad Erik
Published: January 2019

Controversial European policy worries industry while environmentalists fear rampant cheating.
Comment on “Tropical forests are a net carbon source based on aboveground measurements of gain and loss”
Authors: Hansen Matthew C. , Potapov Peter , Tyukavina Alexandra
Published: January 2019

Baccini
et al
. (Reports, 13 October 2017, p. 230) report MODIS-derived pantropical forest carbon change, with spatial patterns of carbon loss that do not correspond to higher-resolution Landsat-derived tree cover loss. The assumption that map results are unbiased and free of commission and omission errors is not supported. The application of passive moderate-resolution optical data to monitor forest carbon change overstates our current capabilities.
A 90,000-year record of Afromontane forest responses to climate change
Authors: Lézine Anne-Marie , Izumi Kenji , Kageyama Masa , Achoundong Gaston
Published: January 2019

Ancient changes in the African tropics

Long-term records of past vegetation change are key to understanding how climate change affects ecosystems, but data are scarce—especially in highly biodiverse regions in the tropics. Lezine
et al.
present a detailed 90,000-year pollen core from an upland crater-lake site in the west African tropical montane forest, which is important from conservation and biogeographic standpoints. The upper treeline moved in response to climate change during the Pleistocene glacial and interglacial periods, whereas the lower limit of the Afromontane forest was stable. The constituent species of the forest also changed. This record resolves debates concerning the biogeographic history of Afromontane vegetation.

Science
, this issue p.
177
Democratizing synthesis by automation
Authors: Milo Anat
Published: January 2019

Computer code directs interconnected modules that perform primary steps of synthesis
Many paths to preserve the body clock
Authors: Green Carla B.
Published: January 2019

Daily clocks in astrocytes in the brain can drive behavioral rhythmicity
Clofazimine Exposure
In Vitro
Selects Efflux Pump Mutants and Bedaquiline Resistance
Authors: Ismail Nabila , Peters Remco P. H. , Ismail Nazir A. , Omar Shaheed V.
Published: January 2019

Six
in vitro
clofazimine-resistant spontaneous mutants obtained from a wild-type or pyrazinamide-resistant ATCC reference strain were selected to evaluate bedaquiline cross-resistance. The reverse was conducted for bedaquiline mutants.
Structure, Mechanism, and Inhibition of
Aspergillus fumigatus
Thioredoxin Reductase
Authors: Marshall Andrew C. , Kidd Sarah E. , Lamont-Friedrich Stephanie J. , Arentz Georgia , Hoffmann Peter , Coad Bryan R. , Bruning John B.
Published: January 2019

Aspergillus fumigatus
infections are associated with high mortality rates and high treatment costs. Limited available antifungals and increasing antifungal resistance highlight an urgent need for new antifungals.
Respiratory Selenite Reductase from Bacillus selenitireducens Strain MLS10
Authors: Wells Michael , McGarry Jennifer , Gaye Maissa M. , Basu Partha , Oremland Ronald S. , Stolz John F.
Published: January 2019

Selenium is an essential element for life, with Se(IV) reduction a key step in its biogeochemical cycle. This report identifies for the first time a dissimilatory Se(IV) reductase, Srr, from a known selenite-respiring bacterium, the haloalkalophilic
Bacillus selenitireducens
strain MLS10. The work extends the versatility of the complex iron-sulfur molybdoenzyme (CISM) superfamily in electron transfer involving chalcogen substrates with different redox potentials. Further, it underscores the importance of biochemical and enzymological approaches in establishing the functionality of these enzymes.
Effect of the MotA(M206I) Mutation on Torque Generation and Stator Assembly in the
Salmonella
H
+
-Driven Flagellar Motor
Authors: Suzuki Yuya , Morimoto Yusuke V. , Oono Kodai , Hayashi Fumio , Oosawa Kenji , Kudo Seishi , Nakamura Shuichi
Published: January 2019

The bacterial flagellar motor is a rotary nanomachine driven by the electrochemical transmembrane potential (ion motive force). About 10 stators (MotA/MotB complexes) are docked around a rotor, and the stator recruitment depends on the load, ion motive force, and coupling ion flux. The MotA(M206I) mutation slows motor rotation and decreases the number of docked stators in
Salmonella
. We show that lowering the external pH improves the assembly of the mutant stators. Neither the collapse of the ion motive force nor a mutation mimicking the proton-binding state inhibited stator localization to the motor. These results suggest that MotA-Met206 is involved in torque generation and proton translocation and that stator assembly is stabilized by protonation of the stator.
Air in the urine: a mystified patient and a concerned surgeon
Authors: Agarwal Samarth , Sharma Ashish , Aggarwal Ajay , Sankhwar Satyanarayan
Published: January 2019

Appendicovesical fistula is a rare type of enterovesical and a very rare complication of acute appendicitis. Herein, we report a case of a 22-year-old man who presented with cloudy urine and pneumaturia with a prior history of acute appendicitis. Imaging techniques including ultrasonography, CT and cystoscopy were performed to diagnose the abnormality. Diagnosis of this fistula is challenging and relies on detailed history and radiological imaging.