bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of direct‐acting agents for hepatitis C and liver stiffness changing after sustained virological response
Authors: Fernandes Flavia F , Piedade Juliana , Guimaraes Livia , Nunes Estevao P , Chaves Ursula , Goldenzon Rafaela V , Cardoso Sandra W , Duarte Joana , Grinsztejn Beatriz , Veloso Valdilea G , Pereira Gustavo , Perazzo Hugo
Published: May 2019

Background and Aim

Few studies have evaluated sustained virological response (SVR) rates by direct‐acting agents (DAAs) and liver stiffness measurement (LSM) changing post‐SVR in limited‐resource settings. We aimed to describe the effectiveness of DAAs for hepatitis C virus treatment and to assess the changing of LSM post‐SVR.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed data of consecutive hepatitis C virus‐infected patients treated by DAAs from 2015 to 2017 in two tertiary centers in Brazil. SVR rates were reported by intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol analyses. LSM by transient elastography performed before treatment and post‐SVR was compared, and logistic regression models were performed.

Results

Six hundred seventy‐one patients (63% female, 62 years [55–68], 89% genotype 1, 8% HIV co‐infected, and 64% with cirrhosis) were included. Most patients were treated by sofosbuvir/daclatasvir ± ribavirin (74%) and sofosbuvir/simeprevir ± ribavirin (21%). SVR rates (95% confidence interval [CI]) were 94.6% (92.7–96.1) and 97.8% (96.4–98.7) for intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol analyses, respectively. The leading adverse event was anemia (9.6% [95% CI 7.6–12.1]). Pretreatment and post‐SVR12 LSM were available in 400 patients. LSM had significantly decreased after SVR (13.6 kPa [interquartile range, 10.0–21.6] vs 10.2 kPa [7.0–17.6], P < 0.001). A total of 167 patients (42%) decreased at least 30% of LSM post‐SVR. The absence of type 2 diabetes (odds ratio = 1.52 [95% CI 1.05–2.21], P = 0.028) and presence of platelet count ≥ 150 × 109/mm3 (odds ratio = 1.75 [1.23–2.50], P = 0.002) were independently associated with a significant LSM regression (≥ 30%) post‐SVR.

Conclusion

DAAs were highly effective and safe, and LSM significantly decreased after SVR in a real‐life cohort in Brazil. The absence of type 2 diabetes and presence of high platelet count were independently associated with LSM decrease post‐SVR.
What Does Aging with HIV Mean for Nursing Homes?
Authors: Justice Amy C. , Akgün Kathleen M.
Published: May 2019

This editorial comments on the article by Miller et al.
Examining the effects of computerised cognitive training on levels of executive function in adults with Down syndrome
Authors: McGlinchey E. , McCarron M. , Holland A. , McCallion P.
Published: May 2019

Background

Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are at much greater risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, and one of the early clinical symptoms of Alzheimer's disease is executive dysfunction. In the general population, cognitive training has shown some promising results in relation to maintaining or improving cognitive processes. There is currently a gap in the literature in relation to cognitive training for adults with DS.

Methods

A quasi‐experimental mixed factorial design with partial crossover was used involving an 8‐week intervention period using a brain training programme. Participants were matched on age and then randomly assigned to either the intervention group or the delayed intervention group. Forty adults with DS, aged between 30 and 49 and with a mild or moderate level of intellectual disability, participated in the study. All participants completed baseline measures of executive function, using both neuropsychological assessments and an informant‐rated measure of behavioural executive function. The intervention group first completed the training and then the delayed intervention group. Executive function assessments were repeated for both groups following the training.

Results

The study aimed to examine whether a cognitive training programme could have an effect on levels of executive function. While conclusions are limited owing to small sample size, improvement was seen in neuropsychological assessments of executive function following cognitive training. Positive effects reflected in everyday behaviours were not as promising.

Conclusions

This study showed that, while it has not been previously an area of focus, individuals with DS can complete a computerised cognitive training programme. Furthermore, the results were promising with significant improvements found in neuropsychological assessments of executive function. These findings need further investigation with a larger sample size and would benefit from the use of a brain imaging component to strengthen the findings.
Superresolution method for a single wide‐field image deconvolution by superposition of point sources
Authors: MARTÍNEZ SANDRA , TOSCANI MICAELA , MARTINEZ OSCAR E.
Published: May 2019

In this work, we present a new algorithm for wide‐field fluorescent micrsocopy deconvolution from a single acquisition without a sparsity prior, which allows the retrieval of the target function with superresolution, with a simple approach that the measured data are fit by the convolution of a superposition of virtual point sources (SUPPOSe) of equal intensity with the point spread function. The cloud of virtual point sources approximates the actual distribution of sources that can be discrete or continuous. In this manner, only the positions of the sources need to be determined. An upper bound for the uncertainty in the position of the sources was derived, which provides a criteria to distinguish real facts from eventual artefacts and distortions. Two very different experimental situations were used for the test (an artificially synthesized image and fluorescent microscopy images), showing excellent reconstructions and agreement with the predicted uncertainties, achieving up to a fivefold improvement in the resolution for the microscope. The method also provides the optimum number of sources to be used for the fit.

Lay Description

A new method is presented that allows the reconstruction of an image with superresolution from a single frame taken with a standard fluorescent microscope. An improvement in the resolution of a factor between 3 and 5 is achieved depending on the noise of the measurement and how precisely the instrument response function (point spread function) is measured. The complete mathematical description is presented showing how to estimate the quality of the reconstruction. The method is based in the approximation of the actual intensity distribution of the object being measured by a superposition of point sources of equal intensity. The problem is converted from determining the intensity of each point to determining the position of the virtual sources. The best fit is found using a genetic algorithm. To validate the method several results of different nature are presented including an artificially generated image, fluorescent beads and labelled mitochondria. The artificial image provides a prior knowledge of the actual system for comparison and validation. The beads were imaged with our highest numerical aperture objective to show method capabilities and also acquired with a low numerical aperture objective to compare the reconstructed image with that acquired with a high numerical aperture objective. This same strategy was followed with the biological sample to show the method working in real practical situations.
Copper and zinc ions govern the trans‐directed dimerization of APP family members in multiple ways
Authors: August Alexander , Schmidt Nadine , Klingler Johannes , Baumkötter Frederik , Lechner Marius , Klement Jessica , Eggert Simone , Vargas Carolyn , Wild Klemens , Keller Sandro , Kins Stefan
Published: May 2019

The amyloid precursor protein (APP) and its homologs amyloid precursor‐like protein 1 (APLP1) and APLP2 have central physiological functions in transcellular adhesion that depend on copper and zinc mediated trans‐directed dimerization of the extracellular domains E1 and E2. Copper binds to three distinct sites in APP, one in the copper binding (CuBD) and growth factor‐like (GFLD) domains each within E1, and one in the E2 domain. For APLP1 and APLP2, metal binding has so far only been shown for the E2 domain. Zinc binding has been reported for all APP family members to a unique site in the E2 domain and an additional site essential for APLP1 E2 domain trans‐dimerization. Using isothermal titration calorimetry, co‐immunoprecipitation, and in vitro bead aggregation assays, we show that copper promotes cis‐ as well as trans‐directed dimerization of APLP1 and APLP2, similar as reported previously for APP. Furthermore, we report a APP‐specific zinc binding site with nanomolar affinity located in the E1 domain, whereas no binding of zinc to the individual subdomains GFLD or CuBD was detected. Zinc binding did not affect the cis‐ but trans‐dimerization of APP and APLP1. Furthermore, zinc binding inhibited copper‐induced trans‐directed dimerization of APP. Together, we identified a high‐affinity APP‐specific zinc binding site in the E1 domain and revealed contrasting cis‐ and trans‐directed dimerization properties of APP, APLP1, and APLP2 in dependence on zinc and copper ions. Consequently, changes in metal ion homeostasis, as reported in the context of synaptic activity and neurodegenerative diseases, appear as key modulators of homo‐ and heterotypic trans‐cellular APP/APLPs complexes.

image
Clinical practice and work‐related burden among second career nurses: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Hama Toru , Takai Yukari , Noguchi‐Watanabe Maiko , Yamahana Reiko , Igarashi Ayumi , Yamamoto‐Mitani Noriko
Published: May 2019

Aims and Objectives

To explore the differences in clinical practice activities and work‐related burden between nurses with past work experience other than nursing (second career nurses: SCNs) and nurses without any past work experience (nonsecond career nurses: NSCNs).

Background

The number of SCNs is increasing. Some studies note that SCNs must perform additional clinical practice activities and experience more work‐related burden than NSCNs. However, there are no quantitative studies exploring SCNs' clinical practice and work‐related burden.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

Research was conducted according to the STROBE statement. Participants were 2,013 nurses working at 56 hospitals in Japan. A 30‐item questionnaire was developed to capture clinical practice activities using clinical ladders, asking about the types of clinical practice activities participants had practiced. Every practiced activity received a score of 1. The total count of each clinical practice activity was then summed. The quantitative workload (QW) scale score was used to investigate levels of QW. Higher QW scores indicated higher levels of work‐related burden. These variables were then compared between SCNs and NSCNs, and the factors that were associated with high QW among SCNs were examined.

Results

Altogether, 961 participants (328 SCNs and 633 NSCNs) were included in the analyses. No significant differences were shown in clinical practice activities between the groups; however, SCNs' QW was significantly higher than was NSCNs' after controlling for demographic variables. SCNs' high QW was associated with the following variables: unmarried marital status, not having role model nurses and previous employment as a care worker.

Conclusions

Quantitative workload was significantly higher among SCNs than among NSCNs. Tailored support for SCNs' high QW based on their specific needs should be considered.

Relevance to clinical practice

These results can help nurse managers reduce SCNs' work‐related burden and illustrate future research directions for this minority group.
Exact Discrete Representations of Linear Continuous Time Models with Mixed Frequency Data
Authors: Thornton Michael A.
Published: May 2019

The time aggregation of vector linear processes containing (i) mixed stock‐flow data and (ii) aggregated at mixed frequencies, is explored, focusing on a method to translate the parameters of the underlying continuous time model into those of an equivalent model of the observed data. Based on manipulations of a general state‐space form, the results may be used to model multiple frequencies or aggregation schemes. Estimation of the continuous time parameters via the ARMA representation of the observable data vector is discussed and demonstrated in an application to model stock price and dividend data. Simulation evidence suggests that these estimators have superior properties to the traditional approach of concentrating the data to a single low frequency.
Clam community composition and prey shell size impacts moon snail (Gastropod: Naticidae) drilling frequencies in South Carolina, USA
Authors: Zlatev Dimitar B. , Lordon Michael C. , Schremp Emma A. , Steffen Andrew C. , Grecco Allison E. , Bystriansky Jason S. , LaMontagne Jalene M.
Published: May 2019

Moon snail predation on clams is a common model system of predator–prey interactions. In this system, the predator bores through the shell of its prey, leaving a distinct and identifiable hole. Some paleoecological and behavioral research on moon snails suggests a trend in predation preference directed toward clams with small shells. Rarely, however, have studies tested relative drilling frequencies across species and size ranges in natural assemblages of clam communities. We examined the clam community composition at two beaches in South Carolina, USA, and we then tested moon snail predator preferences for (a) clam prey species and (b) whether their selection is related to prey shell size. We collected a total of 1,879 clam shells, identified each shell to species and recorded their anteroposterior length. The species composition of clams differed significantly between the two beaches; Anadara ovalis was dominant at both sites, but three of ten total species were only collected at one beach. Folly Beach had nearly a 60% higher the overall drilling frequency (34.6%) versus Edisto Beach (21.8%), and this may be linked to the differences in clam community compositions at the sites. For A. ovalis and Mulinia lateralis, shells with larger lengths have lower probabilities of being bored by a moon snail. Anadara brasiliana, which generally is a thinner‐shelled clam species, had the highest total drilling frequency (77.2%), and Noetia ponderosa, a thicker‐shelled clam, had a considerably lower drilling frequency (12.0%). We conclude that both community level factors (species composition) and population characteristics (shell size distributions) may influence the local drilling frequency by moon snails.
The roles of morphological traits, resource variation and resource partitioning associated with the dietary niche expansion in the fish‐eating batMyotis pilosus
Authors: Chang Yang , Song Shengjing , Li Aoqiang , Zhang Yu , Li Zhongle , Xiao Yanhong , Jiang Tinglei , Feng Jiang , Lin Aiqing
Published: May 2019

Niche expansion and shifts are involved in the response and adaptation to environmental changes. However, it is unclear how niche breadth evolves and changes toward higher‐quality resources.Myotis pilosusis both an insectivore and a piscivore. We examined the dietary composition and seasonality inM. pilosusand the closely relatedMyotis fimbriatususing next‐generation DNA sequencing. We tested whether resource variation or resource partitioning help explain the dietary expansion from insects to fish inM. pilosus. While diet composition and diversity varied significantly between summer and autumn, the proportion of fish‐eating individuals did not significantly change between seasons inM. pilosus. Dietary overlap betweenM. pilosusandM. fimbriatusduring the same seasons was much higher than within individual species across seasons. We recorded a larger body size, hind foot length, and body mass inM. pilosusthan inM. fimbriatusand other insectivorous trawling bats from China. Similar morphological differences were found between worldwide fishing bats and nonfishing trawling bats. Our results suggest that variation in insect availability or interspecific competition may not play important roles in the dietary expansion from insects to fish inM. pilosus.Myotis pilosushas morphological advantages that may help it use fish as a diet component. The morphological advantage promoting dietary niche evolution toward higher quality resources may be more important than variation in the original resource and the effects of interspecific competition.
Integrative modeling of performance deterioration and maintenance effectiveness for infrastructure assets with missing condition data
Authors: Lin Peiyuan , Yuan Xian‐Xun , Tovilla Edgar
Published: May 2019

Deterioration modeling is an important analytical component in infrastructure asset management. It concerns the prediction of performance and remaining service life of assets of different designs under omnifarious working environments. For long‐term prediction, it also requires to characterize maintenance effectiveness because maintenance activities do not necessarily bring an asset to a completely renewed status. Deterioration modeling research has for decades been largely focusing on the modeling of the natural deterioration process per se, whereas the modeling of maintenance effectiveness is only a recent focus of investigation, mainly in pavement research. In practice, the asset conditions immediately before and after a given maintenance treatment both are not often known. This has made the modeling of maintenance effectiveness and long‐term deterioration prediction a challenging task. To bridge the gap, this paper presents a novel approach that integrates the modeling of deterioration and maintenance effectiveness into one process. The natural deterioration of asset performance is modeled as a continuous‐time Markov chain, whereas the effectiveness of a maintenance measure is modeled as a discrete‐time Markov chain. To account for missing condition data before and after the maintenance event, the paper also develops a robust statistical method based on Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation. A real‐life case study on a municipal sewer pipe system is carried out for demonstration of the proposed integrated modeling approach. The functional deterioration of sewer pipes and the effectiveness of flushing operations that target to bring flow capacity to intact state are modeled. Influences of pipe length, diameter, slope, and sewershed area are examined. The present work is a valuable step toward development of evidence‐based risk‐informed asset management framework.
The role of genetics in mainstreaming the production of new and orphan crops to diversify food systems and support human nutrition
Authors: Dawson Ian K. , Powell Wayne , Hendre Prasad , Bančič Jon , Hickey John M. , Kindt Roeland , Hoad Steve , Hale Iago , Jamnadass Ramni
Published: May 2019

Especially in low‐income nations, new and orphan crops provide important opportunities to improve diet quality and the sustainability of food production, being rich in nutrients, capable of fitting into multiple niches in production systems, and relatively adapted to low‐input conditions. The evolving space for these crops in production systems presents particular genetic improvement requirements that extensive gene pools are able to accommodate. Particular needs for genetic development identified in part with plant breeders relate to three areas of fundamental importance for addressing food production and human demographic trends and associated challenges, namely: facilitating integration into production systems; improving the processability of crop products; and reducing farm labour requirements. Here, we relate diverse involved target genes and crop development techniques. These techniques include transgressive methods that involve defining exemplar crop models for effective new and orphan crop improvement pathways. Research on new and orphan crops not only supports the genetic improvement of these crops, but they serve as important models for understanding crop evolutionary processes more broadly, guiding further major crop evolution. The bridging position of orphan crops between new and major crops provides unique opportunities for investigating genetic approaches for de novo domestications and major crop ‘rewildings’.
IL‐17A is not a treatment target in progressive vitiligo
Authors: Speeckaert Reinhart , Mylle Sofie , van Geel Nanja
Published: May 2019

Multiple reports confirm elevated circulating IL‐17 levels and increased numbers of Th17 lymphocytes in patients with non‐segmental vitiligo. Additionally, melanocyte damaging characteristics have been ascribed to IL‐17. A single‐arm pilot study using secukinumab in active non‐segmental vitiligo was conducted. The large majority of patients developed additional skin depigmentations limiting further enrollment. Overall, laboratory analysis revealed no change in secreted chemokines or Th subsets. Th17 lymphocytes correlated with Th2, Th9, and Th22 cells while an inverse link with Th1 cells and serum sCD25 levels was observed. In contrast, Th17.1 cells correlated positively with Th1 lymphocytes. Confirmatory results were found in an independent group of patients with vitiligo showing a significant increase in Th17.1 and Th1 lymphocytes in progressive vitiligo patients compared to healthy controls, which was not found for Th17 cells. These results do not support a direct pathogenic role of IL‐17 or Th17 cells in vitiligo. Nonetheless, a delicate Th17/Th17.1/Th1 balance seems evident which changes markedly according to disease activity. This may offer new treatment options by interfering with cytokines that drive differentiation of Th17 cells toward Th1.
Combination therapy for severe portopulmonary hypertension in a child allows for liver transplantation
Authors: Serrano Ryan M. , Subbarao Girish C. , Mangus Richard S. , Montgomery Greg , Johansen Michael
Published: May 2019

Severe PPHTN is a contraindication to liver transplantation and predicts an abysmal 5‐year outcome. It is defined as a resting mPAP >45 mm Hg with a mean pulmonary artery wedge pressure of <15 mm Hg and pulmonary vascular resistance of >3 wood units in the setting of portal hypertension. There have been limited reports of successful treatment of PPHTN leading to successful liver transplantation in adults, and one reported use of monotherapy as a bridge to successful liver transplant in pediatrics. To our knowledge, we describe the first use of combination therapy as a successful bridge to liver transplantation in a pediatric patient with severe PPHTN. This report adds to the paucity of data in pediatrics on the use of pulmonary vasodilator therapy in patients with severe PPHTN as a bridge to successful liver transplantation. Early diagnosis in order to mitigate or avoid the development of irreversible pulmonary vasculopathy that would preclude candidacy for liver transplantation is crucial, but our report demonstrates that combination therapy can be administered safely, quickly, and may allow for successful liver transplantation in patients with severe PPHTN.
The role of viscosity on skin penetration from cellulose ether‐based hydrogels
Authors: Binder Lisa , Mazál Julia , Petz Romana , Klang Victoria , Valenta Claudia
Published: May 2019

Background

The rheological properties of dermal drug delivery systems are of importance when designing new formulations. Viscosity not only affects features such as spreadability and skin feel, but may also affect the skin penetration of incorporated actives. Data on the latter aspect are controversial. Our objective was to elucidate the relation between viscosity and drug delivery performance of different model hydrogels assuming that enhanced microviscosity might delay drug release and penetration.

Materials and Methods

Hydrogels covering a broad viscosity range were prepared by adding either HPMC or HEC as gelling agents in different concentrations. To investigate the ability of the gels to deliver a model drug into the skin, sulphadiazine sodium was incorporated and its in vitro skin penetration was monitored using tape stripping/HPLC analysis and non‐invasive confocal Raman spectroscopy.

Results

The trends observed with the two different experimental setups were comparable. Drug penetration depths decreased slightly with increasing viscosity, suggesting slower drug release due to the increasingly dense gel networks. However, the total penetrated drug amounts were independent of the exact formulation viscosity.

Conclusion

Drug penetration was largely unaffected by hydrogel viscosity. Moderately enhanced viscosity is advisable when designing cellulose ether hydrogels to allow for convenient application.
Why Georgia, Why? Peach State Residents’ Perceptions of Voting‐Related Improprieties and Their Impact on the 2018 Gubernatorial Election
Authors: Hood M. V. , McKee Seth C.
Published: May 2019

Objective

In the historic 2018 Georgia gubernatorial election, which for the first time featured a black Democratic woman against a white Republican man, we assess opinions toward voting‐related concerns and their impact on voters’ preferences.

Methods

We surveyed political behavior with a representative sample of likely Georgia voters to gauge their perceptions of voting‐related improprieties and their possible effect on vote choice.

Results

Our analysis makes it clear that not only did voters divide over election‐related concerns, which dominated the narrative of the gubernatorial contest, but opinions on this matter strongly influenced the choice for governor.

Conclusions

Reflecting a national development, but amplified in Georgia because demographic changes and growing minority participation are increasing competition, election administration has become highly politicized and it was the focal point of the 2018 gubernatorial campaign and the principal short‐term factor shaping mass voting behavior.
Effect of Internally Generated Revenue on Budget Implementation in Ekiti State
Authors: Olatunji Olaoye Clement , Dominic Olugbamiye Olorunleke
Published: May 2019

The study examined the effect of internally generated revenue on budget implementation in Ekiti State. Specifically the study analyzed trends of components of internally generated revenue in Ekiti state including taxes, fines & fees, licenses, earnings and sales, interest and dividend, evaluated the relative impact of internally generated revenue components on budget implementation, and also  analyzed the causal relationship between internally generated revenue components and budget implementation in Ekiti state. The study made use of time series secondary data sourced from the annual budget of Ekiti state for a period of ten years spanning form 2007 to 2016. Data collated were analyzed with trend analysis, descriptive analyzes, correlation analysis, ordinary least square regression analysis and granger causality analysis. Result revealed that components of internally generated revenue in Ekiti State has increased considerably over the last ten years, relative impact of taxes on expenditure implementation stood at 4.754741(p=0.6232 > 0.05), relative impact of fines and fees on expenditure implementation stood at 0.354370 (P=0.9624 > 0.05), relative impact of licenses on expenditure implementation stood at 1.312830 (p=0.8427 > 0.05), relative impact of earnings and sales on expenditure implementation stood at 0.166495 (p=0.9877 > 0.05), relative impact of interest and dividend on expenditure implementation stood at 2.478020(p=0.7849 > 0.05), and that there is no causal relationship between components of internally generated revenue and expenditure implementation in Ekiti state. It was concluded that though internally generated revenue components identified in the study trended predominantly upwards over the last ten years, their relative impact on the level of budget implementation is not significant. More so the study established that there is no causal relationship between components of internally generated revenue and budget implementation. The study therefore recommended that Ekiti State Government should device a new framework for boosting the level of internally generated revenue in the state, in such a way that potentials and resources lying unused in the state will be harmonize to foster effective and efficient budget implementation. Government in the state should devise an Information Technology driven revenue mobilization mechanisms to ensure that revenue generated from all sources such as taxes, fines & fees, licenses, earnings & sales, interest and dividend are monitored and properly accounted for, also there is need for reduction of external borrowing that can culminate into excessive deduction in the statutory allocation, which could dampen the capacity of sustaining efficient level of budget implementation in the state.
An intramembrane sensory circuit monitors sortase A–mediated processing of streptococcal adhesins
Authors: Hall Jeffrey W. , Lima Bruno P. , Herbomel Gaetan G. , Gopinath Tata , McDonald LeAnna , Shyne Michael T. , Lee John K. , Kreth Jens , Ross Karen F. , Veglia Gianluigi , Herzberg Mark C.
Published: May 2019

A two-component system in
Streptococcus gordonii
monitors the proper processing of adhesins for biofilm formation.
Nucleoside Analogs with Selective Antiviral Activity against Dengue Fever and Japanese Encephalitis Viruses
Authors: Zandi Keivan , Bassit Leda , Amblard Franck , Cox Bryan D. , Hassandarvish Pouya , Moghaddam Ehsan , Yueh Andrew , Libanio Rodrigues Gisele Olinto , Passos Ingredy , Costa Vivian V. , AbuBakar Sazaly , Zhou Longhu , Kohler James , Teixeira Mauro M. , Schinazi Raymond F.
Published: May 2019

Dengue virus (DENV) and Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) are important arthropod-borne viruses from theFlaviviridaefamily. DENV is a global public health problem with significant social and economic impacts, especially in tropical and subtropical areas.
In Vivo
Live Imaging of Oncolytic Mammalian Orthoreovirus Expressing NanoLuc Luciferase in Tumor Xenograft Mice
Authors: Kanai Yuta , Kawagishi Takahiro , Matsuura Yoshiharu , Kobayashi Takeshi
Published: May 2019

Engineering of recombinant MRV for improved oncolytic activity has not yet been achieved due to difficulty in generating autonomous replicating MRV harboring transgenes. Here, we constructed a reporter MRV that can be used to monitor cancer-selective infection by oncolytic MRV in a mouse model. Among the numerous oncolytic viruses, MRV has an advantage in that the wild-type virus shows marked oncolytic activity in patients without any notable adverse effects. The reporter MRV developed herein will open avenues to the development of recombinant MRV vectors armed with anticancer transgenes.
Optimized Mucosal Modified Vaccinia Virus Ankara Prime/Soluble gp120 Boost HIV Vaccination Regimen Induces Antibody Responses Similar to Those of an Intramuscular Regimen
Authors: Jones Dorothy I. , Pollara Justin J. , Johnson-Weaver Brandi T. , LaBranche Celia C. , Montefiori David C. , Pickup David J. , Permar Sallie R. , Abraham Soman N. , Maddaloni Massimo , Pascual David W. , Staats Herman F.
Published: May 2019

Mucosal vaccination is proposed as a method of immunization able to induce protection against mucosal pathogens that is superior to protection provided by parenteral immunization. However, mucosal vaccination often induces serum antigen-specific immune responses of lower magnitude than those induced by parenteral immunization, making the comparison of mucosal and parenteral immunization difficult. We identified vaccine parameters that allowed an immunization regimen consisting of an i.n. prime followed by boosters administered by both i.n. and i.m. routes to induce serum antibody responses similar to those induced by i.m. prime/boost vaccination. Additional studies are needed to determine the potential benefit of mucosal immunization for HIV-1 and other mucosally transmitted pathogens.
Zika Virus Infects Trabecular Meshwork and Causes Trabeculitis and Glaucomatous Pathology in Mouse Eyes
Authors: Singh Pawan Kumar , Kasetti Ramesh B. , Zode Gulab S. , Goyal Anju , Juzych Mark S. , Kumar Ashok
Published: May 2019

Ocular complications due to ZIKV infection remains a major public health concern because of their ability to cause visual impairment or blindness. Most of the previous studies have shown ZIKV-induced ocular pathology in the posterior segment (i.e., retina) of the eye. However, some recent clinical reports from affected countries highlighted the importance of ZIKV in affecting the anterior segment of the eye and causing congenital glaucoma. Because glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide, it is imperative to study ZIKV infection in causing glaucoma to identify potential targets for therapeutic intervention. In this study, we discovered that ZIKV permissively infects human TM cells and evokes inflammatory responses causing trabeculitis. Using a mouse model, we demonstrated that ZIKV infection resulted in higher IOP, increased RGC loss, and optic nerve abnormalities, the classical hallmarks of glaucoma. Collectively, our study provides new insights into ocular ZIKV infection resulting in glaucomatous pathology.
A Novel Trimethoprim Resistance Gene,
dfrA36
, Characterized from Escherichia coli from Calves
Authors: Wüthrich Dominik , Brilhante Michael , Hausherr Anna , Becker Jens , Meylan Mireille , Perreten Vincent
Published: May 2019

The presence of
dfrA36
associated with IS
CR2
in
Escherichia coli
from animals, as well as its presence in other
E. coli
strains from different sources and countries and in
Acinetobacter
, highlights the global spread of this gene and its potential for further dissemination. The genetic link of IS
CR2
-
dfrA36
with other antibiotic and disinfectant resistance genes showed that multidrug-resistant
E. coli
may be selected and maintained by the use of either one of several antimicrobials.
Динамика волнового пакета в окрестностях горизонта событий черной дыры
Authors: Фимин Николай Николаевич , Fimin Nikolai Nikolaevich , Чечеткин Валерий Михайлович , Chechetkin Valerii Mikhailovich , Орлов Юрий Николаевич , Orlov Yurii Nikolayevich
Published: May 2019

Рассмотрены свойства решений уравнений Клейна-Гордона для различных метрик общей теории относительности. Показано, что наличие особых точек метрики приводит к качественной перестройке решений данного уравнения, причем десингуляризация решений выбором новой метрики требует априорных допущений, которые могут приводить к формально математически верным, однако обладающим парадоксальным физическим смыслом, результатам.
Extra-abdominal umbilical vein varix in a newborn
Authors: Cassidy-Vu Lisa , Clark Sydney , Cuka Nathan
Published: May 2019

Umbilical vein varices are rare fetal anomalies typically found intra-abdominally and identified on ultrasound prior to birth. Intra-abdominal umbilical vein varices account for approximately 4% of umbilical cord abnormalities and are thought to be a developmental abnormality rather than a congenital malformation. The umbilical vein varix anomaly been shown to be associated with a higher incidence of adverse perinatal outcomes and there is evidence of a relationship between this and chromosomal abnormalities. There have been few case reports of extra-abdominal varices. This case reviews a multiparous Hispanic female who delivered a baby with an extra-abdominal umbilical vein varix who was admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit but had an uncomplicated hospital course. The report reviews strategies for antenatal testing and surveillance of identified varices.
Heidenhain variant sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease diagnosed as an autoimmune encephalitis due to a false-positive GAD autoantibody
Authors: Urriola Nicolás , Soosapilla Kavie , Herkes Geoffrey , Nogajski Joseph
Published: May 2019

A 64-year-old man presented with a subacute history progressive visual field defects, illusions and misperceptions. An initial MRI brain revealed a right occipital signal abnormality on diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) with serum glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) autoantibodies markedly elevated. A diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis was made, with the patient being treated with intravenous immunoglobulin. One month after discharge, the patient represented with worsening frank and well-formed visual hallucinations, ataxia and progressive cognitive impairment. Progress MRI displayed characteristic T2 ribboning on diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) sequences, along with periodic sharp wave complexes on electroencephalogram (EEG) and a raised CSF protein 14-3-3. Repeat serum, as well as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), GAD antibodies were again markedly elevated as measured by ELISA (RSR, Cardiff, UK), although archival CSF from the original presentation as well as CSF from the second presentation had undetectable GAD autoantibodies as measured via radioimmunoassay (DIAsource, Ottignies-Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium). Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease was confirmed at autopsy.
Women’s experiences of ceasing to breastfeed: Australian qualitative study
Authors: Ayton Jennifer Elizabeth , Tesch Leigh , Hansen Emily
Published: May 2019

Objective

To investigate mothers’ infant feeding experiences (breastfeeding/formula milk feeding) with the aim of understanding how women experience cessation of exclusive breastfeeding.

Design

Multimethod, qualitative study; questionnaire, focus groups and interviews.

Setting

Northern and Southern Tasmania, Australia.

Participants

127 mothers of childbearing age from a broad sociodemographic context completed a questionnaire and participated in 22 focus groups or 19 interviews across Tasmania, 2011–2013.

Results

Mothers view breastfeeding as ‘natural’ and ‘best’ and formula milk as ‘wrong’ and ‘unnatural’. In an effort to avoid formula and prolong exclusive breastfeeding, mothers will endure multiple issues (eg, pain, low milk supply, mastitis, public shaming) and make use of various forms of social and physical capital; resources such as father/partner support, expressing breast milk, bottles and dummies. The cessation of exclusive breastfeeding was frequently experienced as unexpected and ‘devastating’, leaving mothers with ‘breastfeeding grief’ (a prolonged sense of loss and failure).

Conclusions and implications

For many mothers, the cessation of exclusive breastfeeding results in lingering feelings of grief and failure making it harmful to women’s emotional well-being. Reframing breastfeeding as a family practice where fathers/partners are incorporated as breastfeeding partners has the potential to help women negotiate and prolong breastfeeding. Proactive counselling and debriefing are needed to assist women who are managing feelings of ‘breastfeeding grief’.
The study of intracellular and secreted high-molecular-mass protease(s) of Trichoderma spp., and their responses to conidiation stimuli
Authors: Mat’at’a Matej , Galádová Helena , Varečka L’udovít , Šimkovič Martin
Published: May 2019

We continued our study of high-molecular-mass proteases (HMMPs) using several strains of the genus Trichoderma, and other filamentous fungi (Botrytis cinerea, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium culmorum, and Penicillium purpurogenum). We found that five Trichoderma strains secreted HMMPs into the media after induction with bovine serum albumin. Botrytis cinerea and F. culmorum secreted proteases in the absence of inducer, while A. niger or P. purpurogenum did not secrete proteolytic activity (PA). The activity of HMMPs secreted by or intracellularly located in Trichoderma spp. represents the predominant part of cellular PA, according to zymogram patterns. This observation allowed the study of HMMPs’ physiological role(s) independent from the secretion. In studying conidiation, we found that illumination significantly stimulated PA in Trichoderma strains. In the T. atroviride IMI 206040 strain, we demonstrated that this stimulation is dependent on the BLR1 and BLR2 receptors. No stimulation of PA was observed when mechanical injury was used as an elicitor of conidiation. Compounds used as inhibitors or activators of conidiation exerted no congruent effects on both PA and conidiation. These results do not favour a direct role of HMMPs in conidiation. Probably, HMMP activity may be involved in the process of the activation of metabolism during vegetative growth, differentiation, and aging-related processes.
Oxidative stress resistance and fitness-compensatory response in vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA)
Authors: Tan Xin-Ee , Neoh Hui-min , Cui Longzhu , Hiramatsu Keiichi , Jamal Rahman
Published: May 2019

In this study, vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA) cells carrying vraS and (or) graR mutations were shown to be more resistant to oxidative stress. Caenorhabditis elegans infected with these strains in turn demonstrated lower survival. Altered regulation in oxidative stress response and virulence appear to be physiological adaptations associated with the VISA phenotype in the Mu50 lineage.
Temperature dependence of the resistance, impedance and capacitance of semitransparent PTB7-Th and PCBM sensor
Authors: Riaz Muhammad , Karimov Khasan S. , Nabi Jameel-Un
Published: May 2019

The temperature dependences of resistance, impedance and capacitance of semitransparent sensor having structure ITO/PTB7-Th:PC[Formula: see text]BM/Graphene composite (semisurface type) were investigated. The transparency of the sensor was 58–60%. The dependences of the resistance, impedance and capacitance at different frequencies 100 Hz, 1 kHz, 10 kHz, 100 kHz and 200 kHz and temperature in the range of 23.8–80[Formula: see text]C for the sensor were studied. It was observed that as the temperature increased from 23.8[Formula: see text]C to 80[Formula: see text]C, the resistance and impedance (at 1 kHz) of the samples decreased, on average, by a factor of 3.51 and 3.79, respectively. At same experimental conditions (1 kHz), the capacitances of the samples also decreased by a factor of 9.6. It was also noted that as frequency increased from 100 Hz to 200 kHz, the impedance of the sensor decreased by a factor of 21 and 12, at temperatures 24[Formula: see text]C and 58[Formula: see text]C, respectively. Under the same conditions, the capacitance decreased by a factor of 30 and 28, respectively. The temperature resistance coefficients were measured to be −1.31%/[Formula: see text]C, −1.30%/[Formula: see text]C, −1.27%/[Formula: see text]C, −0.84%/[Formula: see text]C, −0.72%/[Formula: see text]C and −0.33%/[Formula: see text]C for R, Z (100 Hz), Z (1 kHz), Z (10 kHz), Z (100 kHz) and Z (200 kHz), respectively. For capacitance measurement, the temperature capacitance coefficients were measured as −1.39%/[Formula: see text]C, −1.38%/[Formula: see text]C, −1.37%/[Formula: see text]C, −1.36%/[Formula: see text]C and −1.34%/[Formula: see text]C, respectively. The semitransparent PTB7-Th- and PC[Formula: see text]BM-based temperature sensor can be used for measurement of the temperature as a teaching aid in situations where visual control of illumination and light intensity is required.
The Cotorsion Pair Cogenerated by the Subcategory of Stable Functors in ((R-mod)op, Ab)
Authors: Fu Xianhui , Ni Meiyuan
Published: May 2019

Let R be an associative ring with identity. Denote by ((R-mod)op, Ab) the category consisting of contravariant functors from the category of finitely presented left R-modules R-mod to the category of abelian groups Ab. An object in ((R-mod)op, Ab) is said to be a stable functor if it vanishes on the regular module R. Let [Formula: see text] be the subcategory of stable functors. There are two torsion pairs [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], where ℱ1 is the subcategory of ((R-mod)op, Ab) consisting of functors with flat dimension at most 1. In this article, let R be a ring of weakly global dimension at most 1, and assume R satisfies that for any exact sequence 0 → M → N → K → 0, if M and N are pure injective, then K is also pure injective. We calculate the cotorsion pair [Formula: see text] cogenerated by [Formula: see text] clearly. It is shown that [Formula: see text] if and only if G/t1(G) is a projective object in [Formula: see text], i.e., G/t1(G) = (−,M) for some R-module M; and [Formula: see text] if and only if G/t2(G) is of the form (−, E), where E is an injective R-module.
Spanning Simplicial Complex of Wheel Graph Wn
Authors: Zahid A. , Saleem M.U. , Kashif A. , Khan M. , Meraj M.A. , Irfan R.
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we explore the spanning simplicial complex of wheel graph Wn on vertex set [n]. Combinatorial properties of the spanning simplicial complex of wheel graph are discussed, which are then used to compute the f-vector and Hilbert series of face ring k[Δs(Wn)] for the spanning simplicial complex Δs(Wn). Moreover, the associated primes of the facet ideal [Formula: see text] are also computed.
Isomorphisms and Automorphisms of Generalized Semi-Cayley Graphs
Authors: Chen Jing , Yang Xu , Zhu Xiaomin
Published: May 2019

In this paper we propose the concept of generalized semi-Cayley graphs, which is a combination of semi-Cayley graphs and generalized Cayley graphs. We study the isomorphisms and automorphisms of generalized semi-Cayley graphs and other related properties.
Development and Validation of the Self-Efficacy in Human-Robot-Interaction Scale (SE-HRI)
Authors: Pütten Astrid Rosenthal-Von Der , Bock Nikolai
Published: May 2019

This methodological article discusses the influence of individuals’ beliefs about their abilities to use and control robotic technologies on their evaluation of human-robot-interaction (HRI). We conducted three surveys to develop and validate a new measure of Self-Efficacy in HRI. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a two-factorial (factors perceived self-efficacy and loss of control) solution with good reliability (Study 1, n = 201). Confirmatory factor analysis did not confirm the two-factorial structure. Instead, it revealed a better model fit for a one-factorial solution for a German (Study 2, n = 450) and an English version (Study 3, n = 209) of the scale with good indices for convergent and divergent validity. The final questionnaire with 18 items was used in two experimental studies (Study 4, n = 120). We found that interacting with a robot increased self-efficacy and that individual changes in self-efficacy predict more positive evaluations within a student sample, but not a sample of seniors. Interviews with seniors from this study suggested shortening the scale, and revising the instructions and answering scheme. The revised scale was again subject to confirmatory factor analysis (Study 5, n = 198), confirming the one-factorial solution for the German and the English version of the scale. We discuss potential use cases for the scale in HRI research.
A Revision of Computer Self-Efficacy Conceptualizations in Information Systems
Authors: Gupta Saurabh , Bostrom Robert P.
Published: May 2019

Computer self-efficacy is one of the more important constructs in information systems (IS) research. Over the years, IS researchers have debated about its multifaceted nature. Yet, despite, extensive debate, we contend that for information systems, the conceptualization of various self-efficacy dimensions is incomplete. The primary dimension currently focused on is the specificity of the technology. This has resulted in two types of self-efficacy being investigated: computer self-efficacy and specific computer self-efficacy. However, the task being performed with technology has received limited attention in information systems self-efficacy research and discussions. We argue that there are four distinct types of computer self-efficacy constructs that are derived from combining the dimensions of specificity of information technology (specific/general) and task type (simple/complex) into a 2x2 model. Using data gathered from a quasi-experimental study, we illustrate how these constructs are not only theoretically different but also have a distinct measurement item set. Implications for expanding self-efficacy research are discussed at the end.