bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paroxysmal and cognitive phenotypes in Prrt2 mutant mice
Authors: Robertson Louise , Featherby Travis , Howell Stuart , Hughes James , Thomas Paul
Published: March 2019

Mutations in proline‐rich transmembrane protein 2 (PRRT2) cause a range of episodic disorders that include paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia and benign familial infantile epilepsy. Mutations are generally loss of function and include the c649dupC frameshifting mutation that is present in around 80% of affected individuals. To investigate how Prrt2 loss of function mutations causes disease, we performed a phenotypic investigation of a transgenic Prrt2 knockout (Prrt2 KO) mouse. We observed spontaneous paroxysmal episodes with behavioural features of both seizure and movement disorders, as well as unexplained deaths in KO and HET animals. KO mice showed spatial learning deficits in the Morris water maze, as well as gait abnormalities in the quantitative Digigait analysis; both of which may be representative of the more severe phenotypes experienced by homozygous patients. These findings extend the described phenotypes of Prrt2 mutant mice, further confirming their utility for in vivo investigation of the role of Prrt2 mutations in episodic diseases.
Preparation and thermal‐insulating properties of Ce‐doped ZrO2 hollow fibers derived from a metaplexis template
Authors: Zhang Zihao , Wang Tianchi , Dai Changhao , Li Qi , Li Yicong , Kong Jian
Published: March 2019

ZrO2 is an attractive thermal‐insulating material for high‐temperature applications owing to its low heat conductivity and corrosion resistance. The seed hair in metaplexis is a natural fiber with a hollow structure that endows it with outstanding thermal‐insulating properties. In this paper, we describe a procedure for preparing CeO2‐stabilized tetragonal ZrO2 hollow fibers obtained by imitating a metaplexis template. The metaplexis fibers were first immersed in a mixed solution of ZrOCl2 and Ce(NO3)3 to prepare the precursor fibers. The fibers thus produced were subsequently dried in vacuum and sintered under the standard atmospheric pressure in aerobic atmosphere at temperature values of 900, 1100, and 1300°C. The microstructures, phase composition, pore size distribution, and thermal conductivities of the fibers were investigated. Results showed that the Ce‐stabilized ZrO2 fiber inherited the hollow structure of the metaplexis, consequently exerting a significant effect on its thermal‐insulating properties. Compared to conventional ZrO2 fibers, the thermal conductivities of Ce‐stabilized ZrO2 fibers can decrease by approximately 12%‐24.3%.
Multisubstituted hydroxyapatite powders and coatings: The influence of the codoping on the hydroxyapatite performances
Authors: Cacciotti Ilaria
Published: March 2019

The biological apatite, whose the bone and teeth mineral phases are composed, remarkably differs from stoichiometric hydroxyapatite (HAp, Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2, Ca/P = 1.667). Indeed, it consists in carbonated Ca‐deficient (Ca/P < 1.667) apatite, characterised by the presence of several vicarious ions, either incorporated within the apatite lattice or just adsorbed on the crystal surface, including anionic (eg, F−, Cl−, and ) and/or cationic substitutions (eg, Na+, Mg2+, K+, Sr2+, Zn2+, Ba2+, Al3+). For this reason, recently, a continuous and rising attention has been devoted to the ionic substitutions within the hydroxyapatite lattice in order to resemble the chemical composition of the bone mineral component and to improve its chemical, physical and mostly biological properties, for applications in biomedical sector, particularly in dentistry, orthopaedics and bone tissue engineering. The present manuscript provides a complete overview about the bi‐substituted hydroxyapatites in form of powders and coatings, in order to evidence the effect of the co‐doping with different vicarious ions within HAp lattice on its physicochemical properties, such as microstructure, morphology, thermal stability, solubility, thermal decomposition, dissolution, grain size, mechanical strength, degradation kinetics, corrosion resistance, and biological responsiveness, in terms of in vitro bioactivity, cytotoxicity and antibacterial action.
Anthocyanin composition and storage degradation kinetics of anthocyanins‐based natural food colourant from purple‐fleshed sweet potato
Authors: Quan Wei , He Wei , Lu Mei , Yuan Bo , Zeng Maomao , Gao Daming , Qin Fang , Chen Jie , He Zhiyong
Published: March 2019

A natural colourant derived from purple‐fleshed sweet potato (PFSP) by ultrasound‐assisted solvent extraction was examined in terms of its anthocyanins and 6‐month storage stability under different conditions: avoid from light at 25 (AL25) and 37 °C (AL37) and under fluorescent light at 25 °C (FL25). This PFSP colourant mainly contained the following peonidin anthocyanins: peonidin 3‐p‐hydroxybenzoyl sophoroside‐5‐glucoside, peonidin 3‐feruloyl sophoroside‐5‐glucoside, peonidin 3‐caffeoyl sophoroside‐5‐glucoside, peonidin dicaffeoyl sophoroside‐5‐glucoside, peonidin 3‐caffeoyl‐p‐hydroxybenzoyl sophoroside‐5‐glucoside and peonidin caffeoyl‐feruloyl sophoroside‐5‐glucoside. The degradation ratios of PFSP anthocyanins (PFSPAs) under AL25, AL37 and FL25 were around 50.7%, 89.0% and 87.0% respectively. The FL25 and AL37 conditions had similar effects on the colourant's total colour change (ΔEab). The degradation kinetics followed the zero‐order reaction models. The PFSPAs were more stable during storage than other anthocyanins because they mainly consist of di‐acylated and double glycosylated forms of peonidin derivatives. These results may promote the application of PFSPAs as a novel natural colourant in food industry.
Surfactants: Role in biofilm management and cellular behaviour
Authors: Percival Steven L. , Mayer Dieter , Kirsner Robert S. , Schultz Greg , Weir Dot , Roy Sashwati , Alavi Afsaneh , Romanelli Marco
Published: March 2019

Appropriate and effective wound cleaning represents an important process that is necessary for preparing the wound for improved wound healing and for helping to dislodge biofilms. Wound cleaning is of paramount importance to wound bed preparation for helping to enhance wound healing. Surfactant applications in wound care may represent an important area in the cleaning continuum. However, understanding of the role and significance of surfactants in wound cleansing, biofilm prevention and control, and enhancing cellular viability and proliferation is currently lacking. Despite this, some recent evidence on poloxamer‐based surfactants where the surfactants are present in high concentration have been shown to have an important role to play in biofilm management; matrix metalloproteinase modulation; reducing inflammation; and enhancing cellular proliferation, behaviour, and viability. Consequently, this review aims to discuss the role, mode of action, and clinical significance of the use of medically accepted surfactants, with a focus on concentrated poloxamer‐based surfactants, to wound healing but, more specifically, the role they may play in biofilm management and effects on cellular repair.
The effect of nursing care delivery models on quality and safety outcomes of care: A cross‐sectional survey study of medical‐surgical nurses
Authors: Havaei Farinaz , MacPhee Maura , Dahinten V. Susan
Published: March 2019

Aims

This study examined the effect of two components of a model of nursing care delivery, the mode of nursing care delivery, and skill‐mix on: (a) quality of nursing care; and (b) patient adverse events, after controlling for nurse demographics, work environment, and workload factors.

Design

A cross‐sectional exploratory correlational study that drew on secondary data was conducted.

Methods

Survey data from 416 direct care registered nurses from medical‐surgical settings across British Columbia were analysed using hierarchical multiple regression. Larger study data were collected in 2015.

Results

Nurses working in a team‐based mode reported a greater number of nursing tasks left undone compared with those working in a total patient care. Nurses working in a skill‐mix with licensed practical nurses reported a higher frequency of patient adverse events compared with those working in a skill‐mix without licensed practical nurses. At higher levels of acuity, nurses in a team‐based mode reported a higher frequency of patient adverse events than did nurses in a total patient care.

Conclusion

Models of nursing care delivery components, mode and skill‐mix, influenced quality and safety outcomes. Some of the team‐based medical‐surgical nurses in British Columbia are not functioning as effective teams. Team building strategies should be used to enhance collaboration among them.

Impact

Research into redesigning care delivery has typically focused on only one care delivery component at a time. The study findings could have implications for nurses and patients, nursing leadership and policymakers particularly in medical‐surgical settings in British Columbia.
Radiofrequency ablation lesion assessment using optical coherence tomography – a proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Liang Deming , Taeschler Dominik , Goepfert Christine , Arnold Patrik , Zurbuchen Adrian , Sweda Romy , Reichlin Tobias , Tanner Hildegard , Roten Laurent , Haeberlin Andreas
Published: March 2019

Background

Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFA) is an effective treatment for atrial fibrillation. However, ablation lesions are usually only assessed functionally. The immediate effect of RFA on the tissue is not directly visualized. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an imaging technique that uses light to capture high‐resolution images with histology‐like quality. Therefore, it might be used for high‐precision imaging of ablation lesions.

Methods and results

Radiofrequency ablation lesions (n = 25) were produced on the freshly excised left and right ventricular porcine endocardium. A Thermocool ST SF NAV ablation catheter (Biosense Webster Inc) and an EP‐Shuttle ablation generator (Stockert GmbH) were used to produce ablation lesions with powers from 10 to 40 W (energies ranging from 100 Ws to 900 Ws). After ablation, the tissue was imaged with a swept source OCT system (at a wavelength of 1300 nm). Subsequently, the ablation lesions underwent the histological analysis. The ablation lesions could be visualized by OCT in all 17 samples with ablation powers ≥20 W, meanwhile, no lesion could be observed in the other eight samples with lower power (10 W). Lesion depths and lesion radiuses, as assessed by OCT, correlated well with those observed on the subsequent histological analysis (Spearman's r = 0.94, P < 0.001 and r = 0.84, P < 0.001). In addition, successful three‐dimensional reconstructions of ablation lesions were performed.

Conclusion

OCT can provide a visual high‐resolution assessment of ablation lesions.
A preliminary study on prenatal polybrominated diphenyl ether serum concentrations and intrinsic functional network organization and executive functioning in childhood
Authors: de Water Erik , Curtin Paul , Zilverstand Anna , Sjödin Andreas , Bonilla Anny , Herbstman Julie B. , Ramirez Judyth , Margolis Amy E. , Bansal Ravi , Whyatt Robin M. , Peterson Bradley S. , Factor‐Litvak Pam , Horton Megan K.
Published: March 2019

Background

The prenatal period is a period of vulnerability during which neurotoxic exposures exert persistent changes in brain development and behavior. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), used as flame retardants in commercial products, are known to be developmental neurotoxicants. PBDEs were phased out of use in the United States a decade ago, but exposure remains widespread due to their release from existing products and biopersistence. Despite consistent animal and epidemiological evidence of developmental neurotoxicity, the neural substrates linking prenatal PBDE serum concentrations to impaired neurodevelopment are poorly understood.

Methods

In the present study, we used resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to examine associations between prenatal PBDE concentrations measured in maternal serum and intrinsic functional network organization (i.e., global and local efficiency; estimated using a graph‐theoretical approach) in 5‐year‐old children (n = 34). We explored whether PBDE serum concentrations were associated with executive functioning (EF) assessed using a parent‐report questionnaire (BRIEF‐P) (n = 106) and whether changes in intrinsic functional network organization linked the association between prenatal PBDE serum concentrations and EF problems.

Results

Children with higher prenatal PBDE serum concentrations showed: (a) increased global efficiency of brain areas involved in visual attention (e.g., inferior occipital gyrus) (β's = .01, FDR‐corrected p's ≤ .05); (b) more reported EF problems (β's = .001, FDR‐corrected p's ≤ .05). Higher global efficiency of brain areas involved in visual attention was associated with more EF problems (β's = .01, FDR‐corrected p's < .05).

Conclusions

Intrinsic functional network organization of visual attention brain areas linked prenatal PBDE concentrations to EF problems in childhood. Visual attention may contribute to the development of higher‐order cognitive functions, such as EF, which could be explored in future studies.
Healthcare and Financial Decision Making and Incident Adverse Cognitive Outcomes among Older Adults
Authors: Stewart Christopher C. , Yu Lei , Wilson Robert S. , Bennett David A. , Boyle Patricia A.
Published: March 2019

OBJECTIVES

To determine if poorer healthcare and financial decision making forecasts adverse cognitive outcomes in old age. Specifically, we hypothesized that poorer decision making would be associated with an increased risk of incident Alzheimer's dementia, an increased risk of incident mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and a more rapid decline in cognition.

DESIGN

An ongoing prospective observational cohort study of aging (the Rush Memory and Aging Project).

SETTING

The greater Chicago area.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 952 community‐based older adults without dementia at baseline.

MEASUREMENTS

Participants completed a measure of healthcare and financial decision making at baseline and underwent annual standardized evaluations to track clinical status and cognitive functions (global cognition, episodic memory, semantic memory, working memory, perceptual speed, and visuospatial ability).

RESULTS

During up to 9 years of follow‐up (M = 5.2 y; standard deviation = 2.7), 156 participants developed Alzheimer's dementia (16.4% of 952), 253 participants developed MCI (33.2% of 760), and each cognitive measure declined (all Ps < .001). In Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for age, sex, and education, poorer decision making was associated with an increased risk of incident Alzheimer's dementia (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.17; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.10‐1.24; P < .001) and incident MCI (HR = 1.16; 95% CI = 1.10‐1.22; P < .001). Further, in linear mixed‐effects models, poorer decision making among those who were initially free of cognitive impairment was associated with a more rapid decline in global cognition and four of five specific cognitive domains (all Ps < .05).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that poorer healthcare and financial decision making heralds adverse cognitive outcomes in old age. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:1590–1595, 2019.
Neurovascular structures of the ligament of the head of femur
Authors: Perumal Vivek , Woodley Stephanie J. , Nicholson Helen D.
Published: March 2019

The ligament of the head of femur (LHF), or ligamentum teres, is believed to provide blood supply to the head of femur and mechanical stability to the hip joint. But these functions in the adult are often debated. The existence and distribution of neurovascular structures within the ligament are not widely documented. This study examined the blood vessels and nervous tissue within the LHF to determine whether the ligament may have a vascular and proprioceptive function at the hip joint. Histological sections from the LHF from 10 embalmed hips (six female, four male; mean age 80.4 ± 8.7 years) were cut at three levels: the foveal attachment, mid‐length and its base where it attaches to the transverse acetabular ligament. Sections were stained with haematoxylin and eosin to study general tissue architecture or with von Willebrand factor and neurofilament to identify blood vessels and nervous tissue, respectively. The proportion of the ligament's cross‐sectional area occupied by blood vessels was expressed as a vascularity index (VI). Nerve endings within the ligament were identified and morphologically classified. Comparisons between the VI at the three levels, or between the tissue layers of the ligament, were made using 95% confidence intervals; statistical significance was set P < 0.05. The ligament tissue comprised three distinct layers: a synovial lining with cuboidal cells, a sub‐synovial zone formed of loose connective tissue and the ligament proper composed of dense collagen bundles. Patent blood vessels and nerve fibres were present both in the sub‐synovial zone and the ligament proper; Pacinian corpuscles and free nerve endings were found scattered only in the sub‐synovial zone. The VI of the ligament proper at the fovea was significantly higher than its middle (P = 0.01) and basal levels (P = 0.04); it was also higher than that of the sub‐synovial layer (P = 0.04). The LHF has three histologically distinct zones, and blood vessels and nerves are distributed both in the sub‐synovial layer and ligament proper. Higher vascularity within the ligament proper at its foveal insertion suggests a possible nutritive role of the LHF to the adult head of femur. The presence of nerves and nerve receptors indicates the ligament is involved in the perception of pain and proprioception, thereby contributing to mechanical stability of the joint.
Nematode ascaroside enhances resistance in a broad spectrum of plant–pathogen systems
Authors: Klessig Daniel F. , Manohar Murli , Baby Shine , Koch Aline , Danquah Wiseborn B. , Luna Emily , Park Hee‐Jin , Kolkman Judith M. , Turgeon B. Gillian , Nelson Rebecca , Leach Jan E. , Williamson Valerie M. , Kogel Karl‐Heinz , Kachroo Aardra , Schroeder Frank C.
Published: March 2019

Recognition of specific molecule signatures of microbes, including pathogens, induces innate immune responses in plants, as well as in animals. Analogously, a nematode pheromone, the ascaroside ascr#18, induces hallmark plant defences including activation of (a) mitogen‐activated protein kinases, (b) salicylic acid‐ and jasmonic acid‐mediated defence signalling pathways and (c) defence gene expression and provides protection to a broad spectrum of pathogens. Ascr#18 is a member of an evolutionarily conserved family of nematode signalling molecules and is the major ascaroside secreted by plant–parasitic nematodes. Here, we report the effects of ascr#18 on resistance in four of the major economically important crops: maize, rice, wheat and soybean to some of their associated pathogens. Treatment with low nanomolar to low micromolar concentrations of ascr#18 provided from partial to strong protection in seven of eight plant–pathogen systems tested with viruses, bacteria, fungi, oomycetes and nematodes. This research may have potential to improve agricultural sustainability by reducing use of potentially harmful agrochemicals and enhance food security worldwide.
Breastfeeding rates in immigrant and non‐immigrant women: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dennis Cindy‐Lee , Shiri Rahman , Brown Hilary K. , Santos Hudson P. , Schmied Virginia , Falah‐Hassani Kobra
Published: March 2019

Breastfeeding benefits mothers and infants. Although immigration in many regions has increased in the last three decades, it is unknown whether immigrant women have better breastfeeding outcomes than non‐immigrants. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis to determine whether breastfeeding rates differ between immigrant and non‐immigrant women. We searched Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL and Google Scholar, 1950 to 2016. We included peer‐reviewed cross‐sectional and cohort studies of women aged ≥16 years that assessed and compared breastfeeding rates in immigrant and non‐immigrant women. Two independent reviewers extracted data using predefined standard procedures. The analysis included 29 studies representing 1,539,659 women from 14 countries. Immigrant women were more likely than non‐immigrants to initiate any (exclusive or partial) breastfeeding (pooled adjusted prevalence ratio 1.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07–1.19; 11 studies). Exclusive breastfeeding initiation was higher but borderline significant (adjusted prevalence ratio 1.20, 95% CI 1.00–1.45; 5 studies, p = 0.056). Immigrant women were more likely than non‐immigrants to continue any breastfeeding between 12‐ and 24‐week postpartum (pooled adjusted risk ratio 2.04, 95% CI 1.79–2.32; 3 studies) and > 24 weeks (adjusted risk ratio 1.33, 95% CI 1.02–1.73; 6 studies) but not exclusive breastfeeding. Immigrant women are more likely than non‐immigrants to initiate and maintain any breastfeeding, but exclusive breastfeeding remains a challenge for both immigrants and non‐immigrants. Social and cultural factors need to be considered to understand the extent to which immigrant status is an independent predictor of positive breastfeeding practices.
Island woodiness underpins accelerated disparification in plant radiations
Authors: Nürk Nicolai M. , Atchison Guy W. , Hughes Colin E.
Published: March 2019

The evolution of secondary (insular) woodiness and the rapid disparification of plant growth forms associated with island radiations show intriguing parallels between oceanic islands and tropical alpine sky islands. However, the evolutionary significance of these phenomena remains poorly understood and the focus of debate.

We explore the evolutionary dynamics of species diversification and trait disparification across evolutionary radiations in contrasting island systems compared with their nonisland relatives. We estimate rates of species diversification, growth form evolution and phenotypic space saturation for the classical oceanic island plant radiations – the Hawaiian silverswords and Macaronesian Echium – and the well‐studied sky island radiations of Lupinus and Hypericum in the Andes.

We show that secondary woodiness is associated with dispersal to islands and with accelerated rates of species diversification, accelerated disparification of plant growth forms and occupancy of greater phenotypic trait space for island clades than their nonisland relatives, on both oceanic and sky islands.

We conclude that secondary woodiness is a prerequisite that could act as a key innovation, manifest as the potential to occupy greater trait space, for plant radiations on island systems in general, further emphasizing the importance of combinations of clade‐specific traits and ecological opportunities in driving adaptive radiations.
Comparison of automatic visual attention in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression: Evidence from P1 event‐related component
Authors: Spironelli Chiara , Romeo Zaira , Maffei Antonio , Angrilli Alessandro
Published: March 2019

Aim

The ability to discern commonalities and differences in the neurobiology of functional psychoses represents a key element to unmasking shared vulnerability across different psychiatric conditions. The present study sought to compare the automatic visual attention mechanisms in three psychiatric disorders considered to distribute along the continuum of psychosis severity: schizophrenia (SCZ), bipolar disorder (BD), and major depressive disorder (MDD). To this end, the visual P1 event‐related potential component, a cortical correlate of automatic visual attention, was measured during an ecological task based on visual word pair presentation.

Methods

Four samples of participants, 18 SCZ, 20 BD, 28 MDD, and 30 healthy controls, were recruited and submitted to the same procedure and stimuli. The P1 evoked by visual word presentation was recorded through a 38‐electrode electroencephalography cap. Words were presented on a computer screen serially as pairs, and participants had to decide whether they rhymed or not.

Results

P1 was larger at posterior sites in SCZ compared with BD, healthy control, and MDD participants. BD patients showed the lowest P1 compared with all other groups. Positive Pearson's correlations were found in SCZ patients between P1 amplitude on left posterior sites and both hallucination severity and worse task performance.

Conclusion

The three investigated psychiatric samples showed different automatic visual attention patterns: SCZ patients exhibited the greatest cognitive impairment correlated with the amplitude of P1, MDD patients revealed a normal component, and BD showed a compensated euthymic response different from results of past literature in untreated patients.
Comparison of the efficacy and safety of 0.1% adapalene gel and 0.025% tretinoin cream in the treatment of childhood acanthosis nigricans
Authors: Treesirichod Arucha , Chaithirayanon Suthida , Wongjitrat Nattakarn
Published: March 2019

Background

There have been few published randomized controlled trials for the treatment of childhood acanthosis nigricans (AN) to date.

Objective

To assess the efficacy of topical 0.1% adapalene gel compared to 0.025% tretinoin cream in the treatment of childhood AN.

Methods

An 8‐week, randomized, split‐neck, comparative study between topical 0.1% adapalene gel and 0.025% tretinoin cream for the treatment of neck hyperpigmentation associated with AN was performed. M index measured by a narrowband reflectance spectrophotometer and both investigator's global evaluation (IGE) and parent's global evaluation (PGE) scales were used to evaluate efficacy.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between 0.1% adapalene gel and 0.025% tretinoin cream in the treatment of AN‐associated hyperpigmentation (P = 0.56). Mean differences in M indices between week 0 and week 8 of 0.1% adapalene and 0.025% tretinoin treatment were 24.2 ± 7.9% and 23.8 ± 8.3% improvement, respectively. Regarding treatment efficacy, 90.0% and 85.0% of participants had more than 75% improvement in IGE in 0.1% adapalene and 0.025% tretinoin treatment sides, respectively. In addition, 75.0% and 65.0% of participants had more than 75.0% improvement in PGE in 0.1% adapalene and 0.025% tretinoin treatment sides, respectively.

Limitations

Lack of histopathological evaluations.

Conclusions

We found no significant difference between topical 0.1% adapalene gel and 0.025% tretinoin in the treatment of AN.
Down‐selecting circumsporozoite protein‐based malaria vaccine: A comparison of malaria sporozoite challenge model
Authors: Amelia Fitri , Iyori Mitsuhiro , Emran Talha Bin , Yamamoto Daisuke S. , Genshi Kento , Otsuka Hiromu , Onoue Yutaro , Yusuf Yenni , Islam Ashekul , Yoshida Shigeto
Published: March 2019

Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (PfCSP) is the main target antigen in development of pre‐erythrocytic malaria vaccines. To evaluate PfCSP vaccines in animal models, challenge by intravenous sporozoite injection is preferentially used. However, in clinical trials, vaccinated human volunteers are exposed to the bites of malaria‐infected mosquitoes. In this study, we down‐selected Escherichia coli‐produced full‐length PfCSP (PfCSP‐F) and its three truncated PfCSPs based on their abilities to elicit immune response and protection in mice against two challenge models. We showed that immunization with three doses of PfCSP‐F elicited high anti‐PfCSP antibody titres and 100% protection against the bites of infected mosquitoes. Meanwhile, three‐dose truncated PfCSP induced 60%‐70% protection after immunization with each truncated PfCSP. Heterologous prime‐boost immunization regimen with adenovirus‐PfCSP‐F and R32LR greatly induced complete protection against intravenous sporozoite injection. Our results suggest that Abs to both anti‐repeat and anti‐nonrepeat regions induced by PfCSP‐F are required to confer complete protection against challenge by the bites of infected mosquitoes, whereas anti‐repeat Abs play an important role in protection against intravenous sporozoite injection. Our findings provide a potential clinical application that PfCSP‐F vaccine induces potent Abs capable of neutralizing sporozoites in the dermis inoculated by infected mosquitoes and subsequently sporozoites in the blood circulation.
Molecular analysis of somatic embryogenesis through proteomic approach and optimization of protocol in recalcitrant Musa spp.
Authors: Marimuthu Kumaravel , Subbaraya Uma , Suthanthiram Backiyarani , Marimuthu Saraswathi S.
Published: March 2019

Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is a complex stress related process regulated by numerous biological factors. SE is mainly applicable to mass propagation and genetic improvement of plants through gene transfer technology and induced mutations. In banana, SE is highly genome dependent as the efficiency varies with cultivars. To understand the molecular mechanism of SE, a proteomics approach was carried out to identify proteins expressed during embryogenic calli (EC) induction, regeneration and germination of somatic embryos in the banana cultivar cv. Rasthali (AAB). In total, 70 spots were differentially expressed in various developmental stages of SE, of which 16 were uniquely expressed and 17 were highly abundant in EC compared to non‐embryogenic calli and explants. Also, four spots were uniquely expressed in germinating somatic embryos. The functional annotation of identified proteins revealed that calcium signaling along with stress and endogenous hormones related proteins played a vital role in EC induction and germination of somatic embryos. Thus, based on this outcome, the callus induction media was modified and tested in five cultivars. Among them, cultivars Grand Naine (AAA), Monthan (ABB) and Ney Poovan (AB) showed a better response in tryptophan added media, whereas Red Banana (AAA) and Karpuravalli (ABB) showed maximum EC induction in kinetin and CaCl2 supplemented media respectively. Simultaneously, germination media were modified to induce proteins responsible for germination. In cv. Rasthali, media supplemented with 10 mM CaCl2 showed a maximum increase in germination (51.79%) over control plants. Thus, the present study revealed that media modification based on proteomic analysis can induce SE in recalcitrant cultivars and also enhance germination in cultivars amenable for SE.
Response of unconfined turbidity current to deep‐water fold and thrust belt topography: Orthogonal incidence on solitary and segmented folds
Authors: Howlett Danielle M. , Ge Zhiyuan , Nemec Wojciech , Gawthorpe Rob L. , Rotevatn Atle , Jackson Christopher A.‐L.
Published: March 2019

Sea‐floor topography of deep‐water folds is widely considered to have a major impact on turbidity currents and their depositional systems, but understanding the flow response to such features was limited mainly to conceptual notions inspired by small‐scale laboratory experiments. High‐resolution three‐dimensional numerical experiments can compensate for the lack of natural‐scale flow observations. The present study combines numerical modelling of thrusts with fault‐propagation folds by Trishear3D software with computational fluid dynamics simulations of a natural‐scale unconfined turbidity current by MassFlow‐3D™ software. The study reveals the hydraulic and depositional responses of a turbidity current (ca 50 m thick) to typical topographic features that it might encounter in an orthogonal incidence on a sea‐floor deep‐water fold and thrust belt. The supercritical current (ca 10 m sec−1) decelerated and thickened due to the hydraulic jump on the fold backlimb counter‐slope, where a reverse overflow formed through current self‐reflection and a reverse underflow was issued by backward squeezing of a dense near‐bed sediment load. The reverse flows were re‐feeding sediment to the parental current, reducing its waning rate and extending its runout. The low‐efficiency current, carrying sand and silt, outran a downslope distance of >17 km with only modest deposition (<0·2 m) beyond the fold. Most of the flow volume diverted sideways along the backlimb to surround the fold and spread further downslope, with some overspill across the fold and another hydraulic jump at the forelimb toe. In the case of a segmented fold, a large part of the flow went downslope through the segment boundary. Preferential deposition (0·2 to 1·8 m) occurred on the fold backlimb and directly upslope, and on the forelimb slope in the case of a smaller fold. The spatial patterns of sand entrapment revealed by the study may serve as guidelines for assessing the influence of substrate folds on turbiditic sedimentation in a basin.
Therapeutic impact of red blood cell transfusion on anemic outpatients: the RETRO study
Authors: St. Lezin Elizabeth , Karafin Matthew S. , Bruhn Roberta , Chowdhury Dhuly , Qu Lirong , Bialkowski Walter , Merenda Scott , D'Andrea Pamela , McCalla Anne‐Lyne , Anderson Lisa , Keating Sheila M. , Stone Mars , Snyder Edward L. , Brambilla Donald , Murphy Edward L. , Norris Philip J. , Hilton Joan F. , Spencer Bryan R. , Kleinman Steven , Carson Jeffrey L. ,   NHLBI Recipient Epidemiology and Donor Evaluation Study (REDS)‐III Program
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Patients with cancer or other diagnoses associated with chronic anemia often receive red blood cell (RBC) transfusion as outpatients, but the effect of transfusion on functional status is not well demonstrated.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

To estimate the effect of transfusion on functional status and quality of life, we measured 6‐minute walk test distance and fatigue‐ and dyspnea‐related quality‐of‐life scores before and 1 week after RBC transfusion in 208 outpatients age ≥50 with at least one benign or malignant hematology/oncology diagnosis. To account for potential confounding effects of cancer treatment, patients were classified into two groups based on cancer treatment within 4 weeks of the study transfusion. Minimum clinically important improvements over baseline were 20 meters in walk test distance, 3 points in fatigue score, and 2 points in dyspnea score.

RESULTS

The median improvement in unadjusted walk test distance was 20 meters overall and 30 meters in patients not receiving recent cancer treatment. Fatigue scores improved overall by a median of 3 points and by 4 points in patients without cancer treatment. There was no clinically important change in dyspnea scores. In multiple linear regression analysis, patients who maintained hemoglobin (Hb) levels of 8 g/dL or greater at 1 week posttransfusion, who had not received recent cancer treatment, and who did not require hospitalization during the study showed clinically important increases in mean walk test distance.

CONCLUSIONS

Red blood cell transfusion is associated with a modest, but clinically important improvement in walk test distance and fatigue score outcomes in adult hematology/oncology outpatients.
Impact of intraoperative high‐volume autologous blood collection on allogeneic transfusion during and after cardiac surgery: a propensity score matched analysis
Authors: Henderson Reney A. , Mazzeffi Michael A. , Strauss Erik R. , Williams Brittney , Wipfli Camron , Dawood Murtaza , Taylor Bradley S. , Tanaka Kenichi A.
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

Perioperative use of allogeneic blood products is associated with higher morbidity, mortality, and hospital costs after cardiac surgery. Blood conservation techniques such as acute normovolemic hemodilution (ANH) report variable success. We hypothesized that large‐volume ANH with limited hemodilution would reduce allogeneic blood transfusion compared to the standard practice.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Retrospective observational study of cardiac surgery patients at the University of Maryland Medical Center between January 2014 and September 2017. Using the institutional Society of Thoracic Surgeons database 91 autologous and 981 control patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting, aortic valve replacement, or both were identified. After propensity matching of 13 preoperative characteristics, 84 autologous and 84 control patients were evaluated. Our primary endpoint was avoidance of blood transfusion during index hospitalization, and secondary endpoints were postoperative bleeding and major adverse outcomes.

RESULTS

The median harvest volumes in the ANH and control groups were 1100 mL and 400 mL, respectively. Of the ANH group, 25% received any transfusion versus 45.2% of the control group after propensity score matching (p < 0.006). When controlling for preoperative platelet count, the transfusion rate ratios for ANH were 0.58 (95% confidence interval, 0.39–0.88) for RBCs and 0.63 (0.44–0.89) for non‐RBC components, which were both found to be statistically significant. There was no difference found in major adverse events.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that large‐volume ANH is beneficial in reducing both RBC and non‐RBC component usage in cardiac surgery. A further prospective validation is warranted.
Species Distribution and Macrolide Susceptibility of
Mycobacterium fortuitum
Complex Clinical Isolates
Authors: Kim Su-Young , Moon Seong Mi , Jhun Byung Woo , Kwon O Jung , Huh Hee Jae , Lee Nam Yong , Lee Seung Heon , Shin Sung Jae , Kasperbauer Shannon H. , Huitt Gwen A. , Daley Charles L. , Koh Won-Jung
Published: March 2019

The understanding of species distribution and inducible macrolide resistance in the
Mycobacterium fortuitum
complex (MFC) is limited. Of 90 mostly respiratory MFC clinical isolates, half were
M. fortuitum
, followed by
M. peregrinum
,
M. porcinum
,
M. septicum
, and
M. conceptionense
.
Epigenetic Changes Induced by
Bacteroides fragilis
Toxin
Authors: Allen Jawara , Hao Stephanie , Sears Cynthia L. , Timp Winston
Published: March 2019

Enterotoxigenic
Bacteroides fragilis
(ETBF) is a Gram-negative, obligate anaerobe member of the gut microbial community in up to 40% of healthy individuals. This bacterium is found more frequently in people with colorectal cancer (CRC) and causes tumor formation in the distal colon of multiple intestinal neoplasia (

Apc
min/+

) mice; tumor formation is dependent on ETBF-secreted
Bacteroides fragilis
toxin (BFT).
More Evidence of Collusion: a New Prophage-Mediated Viral Defense System Encoded by Mycobacteriophage Sbash
Authors: Gentile Gabrielle M. , Wetzel Katherine S. , Dedrick Rebekah M. , Montgomery Matthew T. , Garlena Rebecca A. , Jacobs-Sera Deborah , Hatfull Graham F.
Published: March 2019

Viral infection is an ongoing challenge to bacterial survival, and there is strong selection for development or acquisition of defense systems that promote survival when bacteria are attacked by bacteriophages. Temperate phages play central roles in these dynamics through lysogenic expression of genes that defend against phage attack, including those unrelated to the prophage. Few prophage-mediated viral defense systems have been characterized, but they are likely widespread both in phage genomes and in the prophages integrated in bacterial chromosomes.
Structure of
Vibrio
FliL, a New Stomatin-like Protein That Assists the Bacterial Flagellar Motor Function
Authors: Takekawa Norihiro , Isumi Miyu , Terashima Hiroyuki , Zhu Shiwei , Nishino Yuuki , Sakuma Mayuko , Kojima Seiji , Homma Michio , Imada Katsumi
Published: March 2019

Some flagellated bacteria regulate motor torque in response to the external load change. This behavior is critical for survival, but the mechanism has remained unknown. Here, we focused on a key protein, FliL of
Vibrio alginolyticus
, and solved the crystal structure of its periplasmic region (FliL
Peri
). FliL
Peri
reveals striking structural similarity to a conserved domain of stomatin, which is involved in ion channel regulation in some organisms, including mammals. FliL
Peri
forms a ring with an inner diameter that is comparable in size to the stator unit. The mutational analyses suggested that the presence of the ring-like assembly of FliL around the stator unit enhances the surface swarming of
Vibrio
cells. Our study data also imply that the structural element for the ion channel regulation is conserved from bacteria to mammals.
First Betalain-Producing Bacteria Break the Exclusive Presence of the Pigments in the Plant Kingdom
Authors: Contreras-Llano Luis Eduardo , Guerrero-Rubio M. Alejandra , Lozada-Ramírez José Daniel , García-Carmona Francisco , Gandía-Herrero Fernando
Published: March 2019

Several studies have demonstrated the health-promoting effects of betalains due to their high antioxidant capacity and their positive effect on the dose-dependent inhibition of cancer cells and their proliferation. To date, betalains were restricted to plants of the order Caryophyllales and some species of fungi, but the present study reveals the first betalain-producing bacterium, as well as the first steps in the formation of pigments. This finding demonstrates that betalain biosynthesis can be expanded to prokaryotes.
Pseudomonas savastanoi
Two-Component System RhpRS Switches between Virulence and Metabolism by Tuning Phosphorylation State and Sensing Nutritional Conditions
Authors: Xie Yingpeng , Shao Xiaolong , Zhang Yingchao , Liu Jingui , Wang Tingting , Zhang Weitong , Hua Canfeng , Deng Xin
Published: March 2019

The plant pathogen
Pseudomonas savastanoi
invades host plants through a type III secretion system, which is strictly regulated by a two-component system called RhpRS. The orthologues of RhpRS are widely distributed in the bacterial kingdom. The master regulator RhpR specifically depends on the phosphorylation state to regulate the majority of the virulence-related genes. Under nutrient-rich conditions, it modulates many important metabolic pathways, which consist of one-fifth of the genome. We propose that RhpRS uses phosphorylation- and nutrition-dependent mechanisms to switch between regulating virulence and metabolism, and this functionality is widely conserved among bacterial species.
Clonal Plants as Meta-Holobionts
Authors: Vannier Nathan , Mony Cendrine , Bittebiere Anne-Kristel , Theis Kevin R. , Rosenberg Eugene , Vandenkoornhuyse Philippe
Published: March 2019

The holobiont concept defines a given organism and its associated symbionts as a potential level of selection over evolutionary time. In clonal plants, recent experiments demonstrated vertical transmission of part of the microbiota from one ramet (i.e., potentially autonomous individual) to another within the clonal network (i.e., connections by modified stems present in ∼35% of all plants).
Counting outcomes, coverage and quality for early child development programmes
Authors: Milner Kate M , Bhopal Sunil , Black Maureen , Dua Tarun , Gladstone Melissa , Hamadani Jena , Hughes Rob , Kohli-Lynch Maya , Manji Karim , Ponce Hardy Victoria , Radner James , Sharma Sonia , Tofail Fahmida , Tann Cally , Lawn Joy E
Published: March 2019

Improved measurement in early child development (ECD) is a strategic focus of the WHO, UNICEF and World Bank Nurturing Care Framework. However, evidence-based approaches to monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of ECD projects in low-income and middle-income countries (LMIC) are lacking. The Grand Challenges Canada®-funded Saving Brains® ECD portfolio provides a unique opportunity to explore approaches to M&E of ECD programmes across diverse settings. Focused literature review and participatory mixed-method evaluation of the Saving Brains portfolio was undertaken using an adapted impact framework. Findings related to measurement of quality, coverage and outcomes for scaling ECD were considered. Thirty-nine ECD projects implemented in 23 LMIC were evaluated. Projects used a ‘theory of change’ based M&E approach to measure a range of inputs, outputs and outcomes. Over 29 projects measured cognitive, language, motor and socioemotional outcomes. 18 projects used developmental screening tools to measure outcomes, with a trade-off between feasibility and preferred practice. Environmental inputs such as the home environment were measured in 15 projects. Qualitative data reflected the importance of measurement of project quality and coverage, despite challenges measuring these constructs across contexts. Improved measurement of intervention quality and measurement of coverage, which requires definition of the numerator (ie, intervention) and denominator (ie, population in need/at risk), are needed for scaling ECD programmes. Innovation in outcome measurement, including intermediary outcome measures that are feasible and practical to measure in routine services, is also required, with disaggregation to better target interventions to those most in need and ensure that no child is left behind.
Contextual design choices and partnerships for scaling early child development programmes
Authors: Milner Kate M , Bernal Salazar Raquel , Bhopal Sunil , Brentani Alexandra , Britto Pia Rebello , Dua Tarun , Gladstone Melissa , Goh Esther , Hamadani Jena , Hughes Rob , Kirkwood Betty , Kohli-Lynch Maya , Manji Karim , Ponce Hardy Victoria , Radner James , Rasheed Muneera Abdul , Sharma Sonia , Silver Karlee L , Tann Cally , Lawn Joy E
Published: March 2019

Translating the Nurturing Care Framework and unprecedented global policy support for early child development (ECD) into action requires evidence-informed guidance abouthowto implement ECD programmes at national and regional scale. We completed a literature review and participatory mixed-method evaluation of projects in Saving Brains®, Grand Challenges Canada® funded ECD portfolio across 23 low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Using an adapted programme cycle, findings from evaluation related to partnerships and leadership, situational analyses, and design for scaling ECD were considered. 39 projects (5 ‘Transition to Scale’ and 34 ‘Seed’) were evaluated. 63% were delivered through health and 84% focused on Responsive Caregiving and Early Learning (RCEL). Multilevel partnerships, leadership and targeted situational analysis were crucial to design and adaptation. A theory of change approach to consider pathways to impact was useful for design, but practical situational analysis tools and local data to guide these processes were lacking. Several RCEL programmes, implemented within government services, had positive impacts on ECD outcomes and created more enabling caregiving environments. Engagement of informal and private sectors provided an alternative approach for reaching children where government services were sparse. Cost-effectiveness was infrequently measured. At small-scale RCEL interventions can be successfully adapted and implemented across diverse settings through processes which are responsive to situational analysis within a partnership model. Accelerating progress will require longitudinal evaluation of ECD interventions at much larger scale, including programmes targeting children with disabilities and humanitarian settings with further exploration of cost-effectiveness, critical content and human resources.
Can treating vitamin D deficiency reduce exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?
Authors: Cook Rob , Thomas Vaughan , Martin Rosie
Published: March 2019

The study

Jolliffe D, Greenberg L, Hooper R, Mathyssen C, Rafiq R, de Jongh R, Camargo C, Griffiths C, Janssens W, Martineau A. Vitamin D to prevent exacerbations of COPD: systematic review and meta-analysis of individual participant data from randomised controlled trials.
Thorax
2019. doi:
10.1136/thoraxjnl-2018-212092
.

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Appraisal programme (project number 13/03/25).

To read the full NIHR Signal, go to:
https://discover.dc.nihr.ac.uk/content/signal-000737/treating-vitamin-d-deficiency-may-reduce-exacerbations-of-copd