bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrocephalus and normal CSF dynamics
Authors: Gamble Alexander , Rekate Harold
Published: October 2019

Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by a dynamic imbalance between the formation (production) and absorption of spinal fluid resulting in an increase in the size of the ventricular spaces. New techniques used to study the chemistry and physics of cerebrospinal fluid production, flow and absorption have led to new insights into the pathophysiology of hydrocephalus and other abnormalities of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics. The importance of research into the role of aquaporins, other channel types and absorption of CSF into the systemic circulation via the lymphatics and intraparenchymal veins opens alternative explanations for enigmatic disorders of CSF. A contemporary classification of hydrocephalus based on the point of restriction of CSF flow has been shown to explain all problems related to clinical disorders of CSF and intracranial pressure. The distinct differences between hydrocephalus which develops in babies with growing heads and those that become symptomatic later in life.
Shunt technology and endoscopic ventricular surgery
Authors: Pople Ian K. , Singleton William
Published: October 2019

The management of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) disorders via CSF diversion is now a complex clinical science, requiring a detailed understanding of CSF physiology in both the normal and diseased brain. Successful treatment of this group of disorders requires a comprehensive knowledge of all the available shunt types, their similarities, differences, and idiosyncrasies. The rapid development of endoscopic neurosurgical techniques makes treating this group of patients without a shunt often a real possibility, and arguably is now a core neurosurgical skill. In this chapter we will summarize the CSF physiology in the normal state, and explain the principles of CSF diversion before going on to describe the various shunt types available. A section will be devoted to endoscopic CSF diversion techniques, including a detailed explanation of third ventriculostomy.
Cranial infections
Authors: Yang Eugene , Munusamy Thangaraj , Tan Boon Hoe
Published: October 2019

Cranial infections continue to be an important cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. To understand cranial infections, knowledge of anatomy is important because the pathogenesis and sequelae vary according to anatomical location and their functional relevance. Microorganisms, owing to their intrinsic properties and distinct characteristics, produce relatively specific clinical syndromes in cranial infections. Definitive treatment depends on prompt microbial identification and antimicrobial treatment, reduction of microbial load, relief of excessive pressure or mass effect and modulation of the host’s immune response to allow successful microbial clearance while minimizing inflammation and oedema. In this chapter, we will discuss the management of common cranial infections and their associated clinical conundrums from a neurosurgical perspective.
Definitions
Authors: Kapur Navneet , Goldney Robert
Published: October 2019

This chapter discusses definitions of suicidal behaviour and some of the terminology used. There is no universally agreed nomenclature and a variety of terms have been used to capture the diversity of suicidal behaviour. Broadly speaking, approaches have tried to either categorize suicidal behaviour on the basis of intent or else regarded suicidal behaviour as along a continuum. Of course suicidal behaviour is exactly that—a behaviour and not a psychiatric disorder in its own right. A simple pragmatic approach to terminology might be most useful because this allows for flexible individualized clinical management.
Psychological and other non-pharmacological approaches
Authors: Kapur Navneet , Goldney Robert
Published: October 2019

This chapter discusses psychological and non-pharmacological interventions for suicidal behaviour in more detail. All people who present with suicidal thoughts and behaviour warrant some treatment, but the nature and intensity of this will depend on individual needs. Psychological treatments may include cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal therapy, problem-solving therapy, and mindfulness-based cognitive behavioural therapy. Dialectical behaviour therapy is specifically designed for those with a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder. Broader non-pharmacological approaches such as crisis centres, volunteer organizations, brief-contact interventions, and safety plans may be promising but require further research. Common therapeutic elements include a non-judgemental approach, empathy, respect, warmth, and genuineness.
Pharmacological approaches
Authors: Kapur Navneet , Goldney Robert
Published: October 2019

This chapter discusses the role of pharmacological approaches to the treatment of people who present with suicidal thoughts or behaviours. Use of medication has been controversial, particularly for children. However, the balance of evidence suggests that if there is a psychiatric disorder for which there is an effective pharmacological treatment, then this treatment should be offered. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers (particularly lithium), and antipsychotic medication can reduce suicidality. Ketamine, a short-acting anaesthetic and NMDA receptor antagonist, is potentially useful and is the subject of much research interest for its possible role in treatment.
Conclusion
Authors: Kapur Navneet , Goldney Robert
Published: October 2019

This concluding chapter suggests that no single approach is suitable for all. Effective strategies are available but these need to be tailored to individuals. It is sometimes suggested that the evidence base is weak but suicide prevention research is proceeding at an increasing rate. The management of mental health problems remains important. Future work might harness the power of large datasets, investigate the implementation and development of interventions, make use of new technology, and focus on low- and middle-income countries where most deaths occur. There are a number of challenges, including ageing populations and health services which are under increasing pressure. By using some of the strategies that have been developed internationally, there is every reason to be optimistic that rates of suicide worldwide can be reduced.
A Brief History of Disaster Evaluation Studies
Authors: Ricci Edmund M. , Pretto Ernesto A. , Ole Sundnes Knut
Published: October 2019

The scientific study of disasters has a long history, albeit limited in scope and structure. The first studies tended to focus on the societal and human impact of these horrific events and to report numbers of casualties. Later studies examined more deeply the impact and stresses disasters have placed upon the individuals and communities affected and upon the emergency public health and medical care systems in the affected geographic areas. The methodological challenges to conducting these studies have been great in that disasters are typically unexpected, and there is little time for recording and collecting data concurrently. However, a methodology for collecting data descriptive of the medical and public health response to disasters is evolving through much trial and error. This chapter is not intended to be a comprehensive review of disaster evaluation research and evaluation. It is, rather, a portrait of some highlights in the complex and difficult pathway traversed by those who have attempted to study disasters while using the methods of science.
Construct the Logic Model and Research Design (Step 3)
Authors: Ricci Edmund M. , Pretto Ernesto A. , Ole Sundnes Knut
Published: October 2019

A ‘mixed-methods’ research design, based upon the categories contained in a disaster response logic model, is suggested as the best approach to capture the complexities of the medical and public health disaster response experience. A mixed-methods design allows the evaluation team to collect and combine data from direct observation, medical records, interviews with victims, health professionals, family and friends of victims, public safety officials, other government and non-governmental officials and from public documents. Validation in a mixed-method design is based upon the concept of triangulation. The term triangulation is used in behavioral research to describe the process of obtaining data from three or more different sources and then comparing the findings to assess consistency across sources. In this design, both qualitative and quantitative data are collected and then merged during the analysis phase. Each data set is used to validate and enhance the other in order to improve the validity of the conclusions reached and the recommendations that follow. However, not all data need be combined. The mixed-method design allows for the analysis of certain types of data separately and then applied to the appropriate research question because there may be no appropriate comparative data.
Select and Train a Field Research Team and Collect Data (Step 7)
Authors: Ricci Edmund M. , Pretto Ernesto A. , Ole Sundnes Knut
Published: October 2019

Before beginning data collection in disaster areas, extensive preparations must be made; economical use of time and resources are prime considerations. These may be based on the scout team’s report described in Chapter 10. One member of the evaluation team assumes major responsibility for those preparations and is designated team leader or field research coordinator. The team leader insures optimal use of time spent in the field and adequate preparation of the research team and the community for the research visit. Training all members of the data collection team in the use of all data collection instruments, and in the field protocol, is an essential step in the process. The reliability and validity of the data collected are a function of the ability of the data collectors to properly use the instruments. Often the data required are culturally sensitive. Cultural factors are important confounders in data collection. All data collectors must be familiarized with key aspects of the culture of the area in which they will work; persons from within the disaster region must be incorporated into the research design process, the preparation of the data collection instruments, and in the data collection process itself, as these individuals can assist the ‘out of country’ team members identify and negotiate cultural barriers and sensitivities that could impede the research. This is facilitated by conducting an initial scout survey of the disaster zone and by using a multinational team in the design of research instruments and in the implementation of the evaluation study.
Clinical SAQs for the Final FRCEM
Authors: Banerjee Ashis , Jafar Anisa J. N. , Mukherjee Angshuman , Solomonides Christian , Witt Erik
Published: October 2019

Clinical SAQs for the Final FRCEM contains over 200 Short Answer Questions mapped to the Royal College of Emergency Medicine curriculum. Designed specifically to reflect the examination format, each question is supported by a detailed model answer, acting as both a high yield revision guide and as a template for answering similar questions on exam day. Fifty questions are illustration-based including radiology, ultrasound, and ECGs, allowing candidates to practise typical questions in this clinical exam. Further reading directs candidates to guidelines and articles for additional learning and preparation. Written by a team including successful candidates and a senior consultant, Clinical SAQs for the Final FRCEM holds the key to passing the exam.
Care of the Elderly
Authors: Banerjee Ashis , Jafar Anisa J. N. , Mukherjee Angshuman , Solomonides Christian , Witt Erik
Published: October 2019

This chapter on the care of older people contains five clinical Short Answer Questions (SAQs) with explanations and resources for further reading. Conditions such as delirium, falls, reduced mobility, elder abuse, and pressure ulcers can all result in a trip to the emergency department for those who are elderly, and it will be up to the emergency doctor to assess, diagnose, and decide upon a treatment path for each patient. The cases described in this chapter are all situations any emergency doctor is likely to encounter at some point in his or her career. The materials in this chapter will greatly aid revision for the Final FRCEM examination.
Metabolic Conditions
Authors: Banerjee Ashis , Jafar Anisa J. N. , Mukherjee Angshuman , Solomonides Christian , Witt Erik
Published: October 2019

This chapter on metabolic emergencies contains seven clinical Short Answer Questions (SAQs) with explanations and sources for further reading. Possible disorders and accompanying symptoms of altered metabolism that may present in the emergency department include hypokalaemia, acute kidney injury, anion gap, and exercise-induced hyponatraemia, among others. It will be up to the emergency doctor to assess, diagnose, and decide upon a treatment path for each patient. The cases described in this chapter are all situations any emergency doctor is likely to encounter at some point in his or her career. The material in this chapter will greatly aid revision for the Final FRCEM examination.
Paediatrics
Authors: Banerjee Ashis , Jafar Anisa J. N. , Mukherjee Angshuman , Solomonides Christian , Witt Erik
Published: October 2019

This chapter on paediatrics contains 17 clinical Short Answer Questions (SAQs) with explanations and sources for further reading. Possible disorders and accompanying symptoms arising in paediatric patients who may present in the emergency department include croup, gastroenteritis, seizure, chicken pox, and type 1 diabetes mellitus among others. It will be up to the emergency doctor to assess, diagnose, and decide upon a treatment path for each patient. The cases described in this chapter are all situations any emergency doctor is likely to encounter at some point in his or her career. The material in this chapter will greatly aid revision for the Final FRCEM examination.
Spinning vortex braneworld
Authors: Sakamura Yutaka
Published: October 2019

A spinning vortex is considered in the context of the braneworld. We numerically analyze the profiles of a stationary solution in a 6D U(1) gauge theory, and clarify their dependence on the angular velocity in the field space $\omega$$. We find that there is an upper limit on $\omega$$, and the vortex configuration should be parametrized by the angular momentum rather than $\omega$$. We also discuss matter modes localized on the vortex. We show that the vortex spin mixes the Kaluza–Klein (KK) masses and induces nonvanishing masses to the zero-modes. It also resolves the degeneracy in the KK spectrum that the static vortex had.
The Aesthetics of Mental Illness in Defoe’s Crusoe Trilogy
Authors: Thell Anne M
Published: October 2019

This essay studies Robinson Crusoe’s ‘chronical Distemper’ of wanderlust in the context of early eighteenth-century concepts of mental illness, which often hinge on unruly passions and, even more specifically, an overactive imagination. Defoe describes Crusoe’s insatiable urge to ramble as a type of insanity that is rooted in fancy, not reason, yet simultaneously indicates that the expression of this impulse differentiates his character and generates magnificent gains. Although at odds with religious and medical warnings about the dangers of excessive passion, then, Defoe suggests that Crusoe’s ‘unconquerable’ wanderlust is a beneficial kind of madness that counteracts idleness and cements his distinctly English, merchant capitalist identity. More largely, the Crusoe trilogy as a whole contributes to early novelistic discourse by aligning mental illness, self-analysis, and the production of narrative, thereby stitching together evolving concepts of the human mind and literary form.
Transcriptional Profiling of the Murine Airway Response to Acute Ozone Exposure
Authors: Tovar Adelaide , Smith Gregory J , Thomas Joseph M , Crouse Wesley L , Harkema Jack R , Kelada Samir N P
Published: October 2019

Ambient ozone (O3) exposure has serious consequences on respiratory health, including airway inflammation and injury. Decades of research have yielded thorough descriptions of these outcomes; however, less is known about the molecular processes that drive them. The aim of this study was to further describe the cellular and molecular responses to O3 exposure in murine airways, with a particular focus on transcriptional responses in 2 critical pulmonary tissue compartments: conducting airways (CA) and airway macrophages (AM). After exposing adult, female C57BL/6J mice to filtered air, 1 or 2 ppm O3, we assessed hallmark responses including airway inflammation (cell counts and cytokine secretion) and injury (epithelial permeability), followed by gene expression profiling of CA and AM by RNA-seq. As expected, we observed concentration-dependent increases in airway inflammation and injury. Conducting airways and AM both exhibited changes in gene expression to both 1 and 2 ppm O3 that were largely compartment-specific. In CA, genes associated with epithelial barrier function, detoxification processes, and cellular proliferation were altered, while O3 affected genes involved in innate immune signaling, cytokine production, and extracellular matrix remodeling in AM. Further, CA and AM also exhibited notable differences in concentration–response expression patterns for large numbers of genes. Overall, our study has described transcriptional responses to acute O3 exposure, revealing both shared and unique gene expression patterns across multiple concentrations of O3 and in 2 important O3-responsive tissues. These profiles provide broad mechanistic insight into pulmonary O3 toxicity, and reveal a variety of targets for focused follow-up studies.
The out-of-India hypothesis: evidence from an ancient centipede genus, Rhysida (Chilopoda: Scolopendromorpha) from the Oriental Region, and systematics of Indian species
Authors: Joshi Jahnavi , Karanth Praveen K , Edgecombe Gregory D
Published: October 2019

The Oriental Region has been a focus of biogeographical research for more than two centuries. We examined systematics and biogeography of the centipede genus Rhysida in this region. A robust species hypothesis for the Indian subcontinental and Southeast Asian Rhysida clade uses molecular, morphological and distribution data. Twelve species are recognized in two monophyletic species complexes, eight belonging to the Rhysida immarginata and four to the Rhysida longipes species complex. They include Rhysida aspinosa, Rhysida crassispina, R. immarginata, R. longipes and seven new species, five of which are formally named in this paper: Rhysida ikhalama, Rhysida konda, Rhysida lewisi, Rhysida pazhuthara and Rhysida sada The nine Rhysida species are documented taxonomically and their morphological variation is reviewed. An integrative systematic approach reveals that diversity of Rhysida in the Indian subcontinent has been underestimated. Both species complexes started to diversify in the Early to Late Cretaceous in the Indian subcontinent. The out-of-India hypothesis is supported in both clades, because Southeast Asian species are nested in Indian subcontinental clades. Historical biogeographical analyses suggest two independent post-collision dispersal events, one in the immarginata clade and another where R. longipes expanded its range into Southeast Asia.
A Rapid Survey of Avirulence Genes in Field Isolates of Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Jia Yulin , Wang Yanli , Sun Guochang
Published: October 2019

Magnaporthe oryzae is the causal agent for the devastating disease rice blast. The avirulence (AVR) genes in M. oryzae are required to initiate robust disease resistance mediated by the corresponding resistance (R) genes in rice. Therefore, monitoring pathogen AVR genes is important to predict the stability of R gene-mediated blast resistance. In the present study, we analyzed the DNA sequence dynamics of five AVR genes, namely, AVR-Pita1, AVR-Pik, AVR-Pizt, AVR-Pia, and AVR-Pii, in field isolates of M. oryzae in order to understand the effectiveness of the R genes, Pi-ta, Pi-k, Pi-zt, Pia, and Pii in the Southern U.S. rice growing region. Genomic DNA of 258 blast isolates collected from commercial fields of the Southern UNITED STATES during 1975–2009 were subjected to PCR amplification with AVR gene-specific PCR markers. PCR products were obtained from 232 isolates. The absence of PCR products in the remaining 26 isolates suggests that these isolates do not contain the tested AVR genes. Amplified PCR products were subsequently gel purified and sequenced. Based on the presence or absence of the five AVR genes, 232 field isolates were classified into 10 haplotype groups. The results revealed that 174 isolates of M. oryzae carried AVR-Pita1, 225 isolates carried AVR-Pizt, 44 isolates carried AVR-Pik, 3 isolates carried AVR-Pia, and one isolate carried AVR-Pii. AVR-Pita1 was highly variable, and 40 AVR-Pita1 haplotypes were identified in avirulent isolates. AVR-Pik had four nucleotide sequence site changes resulting in amino acid substitutions, whereas three other AVR genes, AVR-Pizt, AVR-Pia, and AVR-Pii, were relatively stable. Two AVR genes, AVR-Pik and AVR-Pizt, were found to exist in relatively larger proportions of the tested field isolates, which suggested that their corresponding R genes Pi-k and Pi-zt can be deployed in preventing blast disease in the Southern UNITED STATES in addition to Pi-ta. This study demonstrates that continued AVR gene monitoring in the pathogen population is critical for ensuring the effectiveness of deployed blast R genes in commercial rice fields.
The GR‐ANXA1 pathway is a pathological player and a candidate target in epilepsy
Authors: Zub Emma , Canet Geoffrey , Garbelli Rita , Blaquiere Marine , Rossini Laura , Pastori Chiara , Sheikh Madeeha , Reutelingsperger Chris , Klement Wendy , de Bock Frederic , Audinat Etienne , Givalois Laurent , Solito Egle , Marchi Nicola
Published: October 2019

Immune changes occur in experimental and clinical epilepsy. Here, we tested the hypothesis that during epileptogenesis and spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS) an impairment of the endogenous anti‐inflammatory pathway glucocorticoid receptor (GR)‐annexin A1 (ANXA1) occurs. By administrating exogenous ANXA1, we studied whether pharmacological potentiation of the anti‐inflammatory response modifies seizure activity and pathophysiology. We used an in vivo model of temporal lobe epilepsy based on intrahippocampal kainic acid (KA) injection. Video‐electroencephalography, molecular biology analyses on brain and peripheral blood samples, and pharmacological investigations were performed in this model. Human epileptic cortices presenting type II focal cortical dysplasia (IIa and b), hippocampi with or without hippocampal sclerosis (HS), and available controls were used to study ANXA1 expression. A decrease of phosphorylated (phospho‐) GR and phospho‐GR/tot‐GR protein expression occurred in the hippocampus during epileptogenesis. Downstream to GR, the anti‐inflammatory protein ANXA1 remained at baseline levels while inflammation installed and endured. In peripheral blood, ANXA1 and corticosterone levels showed no significant modifications during disease progression except for an early and transient increase poststatus epilepticus. These results indicate inadequate ANXA1 engagement over time and in these experimental conditions. By analyzing human brain specimens, we found that where significant inflammation exists, the pattern of ANXA1 immunoreactivity was abnormal because the typical perivascular ANXA1 immunoreactivity was reduced. We next asked whether potentiation of the endogenous anti‐inflammatory mechanism by ANXA1 administration modifies the disease pathophysiology. Although with varying efficacy, administration of exogenous ANXA1 somewhat reduced the time spent in seizure activity as compared to saline. These results indicate that the anti‐inflammatory GR‐ANXA1 pathway is defective during experimental seizure progression. The prospect of pharmacologically restoring or potentiating this endogenous anti‐inflammatory mechanism as an add‐on therapeutic strategy for specific forms of epilepsy is proposed.—Zub, E., Canet, G., Garbelli, R., Blaquiere, M., Rossini, L., Pastori, C., Sheikh, M., Reutelingsperger, C., Klement, W., de Bock, F., Audinat, E., Givalois, L., Solito, E., Marchi, N. The GR‐ANXA1 pathway is a pathological player and a candidate target in epilepsy. FASEB J. 33, 13998‐14009 (2019). www.fasebj.org
Satisfaction With the Quality Nursing Work Environment Among Psychiatric Nurses Working in Acute Care General Hospitals
Authors: LIN Chiou-Fen , LAI Fu-Chih , HUANG Way-Ren , HUANG Chung-I , HSIEH Chia-Jung
Published: October 2019

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact on patient care quality of a positive, high-quality environment that is tailored to the practice of nursing. This study enabled nurses to show their professional skills and knowledge, which may help enhance job satisfaction. To date, little research has been done to assess the relationship between the nursing work environment and the job satisfaction of psychiatric nurses employed in acute wards of general hospitals.

Purpose

This study was designed to explain the relationship between job satisfaction and the perceived indicators of a quality nursing work environment (QNWE) after adjusting for demographic characteristics and work characteristics.

Methods

A cross-sectional correlational design was employed, and a stratified random sample of 185 psychiatric nurses (99% response rate) working in acute wards in Taiwan was surveyed in 2013. Nurses were asked to complete a self-administered questionnaire that included measures of perceived QNWE and job satisfaction and demographic variables.

Results

A statistically significant, positive relationship was found between perceived indicators of QNWE and job satisfaction (r = .813, p < .001). In the hierarchical multiple linear regression model, for the subdimensions of QNWE, the variables “perceived indicators of professional specialization and teamwork” and “support and caring” showed a significant and positive association with job satisfaction, after adjusting for personal demographic characteristics.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice

Job satisfaction is related to the perception of nurses regarding their work environment. Therefore, nursing managers should improve workplace satisfaction by supporting and caring for nurses and creating better career development and teamwork opportunities for nurses through job training and planning.
Molecular architecture of the SYCP3 fibre and its interaction with DNA
Authors: Bollschweiler Daniel , Radu Laura , Joudeh Luay , Plitzko Jürgen M. , Henderson Robert M. , Mela Ioanna , Pellegrini Luca
Published: October 2019

The synaptonemal complex (SC) keeps homologous chromosomes in close alignment during meiotic recombination. A hallmark of the SC is the presence of its constituent protein SYCP3 on the chromosome axis. During SC assembly, SYCP3 is deposited on both axes of the homologue pair, forming axial elements that fuse into the lateral element (LE) in the tripartite structure of the mature SC. We have used cryo-electron tomography and atomic force microscopy to study the mechanism of assembly and DNA binding of the SYCP3 fibre. We find that the three-dimensional architecture of the fibre is built on a highly irregular arrangement of SYCP3 molecules displaying very limited local geometry. Interaction between SYCP3 molecules is driven by the intrinsically disordered tails of the protein, with no contact between the helical cores, resulting in a flexible fibre assembly. We demonstrate that the SYCP3 fibre can engage in extensive interactions with DNA, indicative of an efficient mechanism for incorporation of DNA within the fibre. Our findings suggest that SYCP3 deposition on the chromosome axis might take place by polymerization into a fibre that is fastened to the chromosome surface via DNA binding.
Widespread infection of
Areospora rohanae
in southern king crab (
Lithodes santolla
) populations across south Chilean Patagonia
Authors: Rodríguez S. M. , Uribe J. C. , Estay S. A. , Palacios M. , Pinochet R. , Oyarzún S. , Valdivia N.
Published: October 2019

Cottage cheese disease is caused by microsporidian parasites that infect a wide range of animal populations. Despite its potential to affect economically important activities, the spatial patterns of prevalence of this disease are still not well understood. Here, we analyse the occurrence of the microsporidian
Areospora rohanae
in populations of the king crab
Lithodes santolla
over
ca
800 km of the southeastern Pacific shore. In winter 2011, conical pots were deployed between 50 and 200 m depth to capture crabs of a wide range of sizes. The infection was widely distributed along the region, with a mean prevalence of 16%, and no significant association between prevalence and geographical location was detected. Males, females and ovigerous females showed similar prevalence values of 16.5 (13–18.9), 15 (9.2–15) and 16.7% (10–19%), respectively. These patterns of prevalence were consistent across crab body sizes, despite the ontogenetic and sex-dependent variations in feeding behaviour and bathymetric migrations previously reported for king crabs. This study provided the first report of the geographical distribution of
A. rohanae
infecting southern king crabs.
Stabilizing gold nanoparticles for use in X-ray computed tomography imaging of soil systems
Authors: Scotson Callum P. , Munoz-Hernando Maria , Duncan Simon J. , Ruiz Siul A. , Keyes Samuel D. , van Veelen Arjen , Dunlop Iain E. , Roose Tiina
Published: October 2019

This investigation establishes a system of gold nanoparticles that show good colloidal stability as an X-ray computed tomography (XCT) contrast agent under soil conditions. Gold nanoparticles offer numerous beneficial traits for experiments in biology including: comparatively minimal phytotoxicity, X-ray attenuation of the material and the capacity for functionalization. However, soil salinity, acidity and surface charges can induce aggregation and destabilize gold nanoparticles, hence in biomedical applications polymer coatings are commonly applied to gold nanoparticles to enhance stability in the
in vivo
environment. Here we first demonstrate non-coated nanoparticles aggregate in soil-water solutions. We then show coating with a polyethylene glycol (PEG) layer prevents this aggregation. To demonstrate this, PEG-coated nanoparticles were drawn through flow columns containing soil and were shown to be stable; this is in contrast with control experiments using silica and alumina-packed columns. We further determined that a suspension of coated gold nanoparticles which fully saturated soil maintained stability over at least 5 days. Finally, we used time resolved XCT imaging and image based models to approximate nanoparticle diffusion as similar to that of other typical plant nutrients diffusing in water. Together, these results establish the PEGylated gold nanoparticles as potential contrast agents for XCT imaging in soil.
Social media and bitcoin metrics: which words matter
Authors: Burnie Andrew , Yilmaz Emine
Published: October 2019

We develop a new Data-Driven Phasic Word Identification (DDPWI) methodology to determine which words matter as the bitcoin pricing dynamic changes from one phase to another. With Google search volumes as a baseline, we find that Reddit submissions are both correlated with Google and have a comparable relationship with a variety of bitcoin metrics, using Spearman’s rho. Reddit provides complete access to the text of submissions. Rather than associating sentiment with market activity, we describe the DDPWI method for finding specific ‘price dynamic’ words associated with changes in the bitcoin pricing pattern through 2017 and 2018. We assess the significance of these changes using Wilcoxon Rank-Sum Tests with Bonferroni corrections. These price dynamic words are used to pull out associated words in the submissions thereby providing the context to their use. For example, the price dynamic word ‘ban’, which became significantly higher in frequency as prices fell, occurred in the context of both government regulation and internet companies banning cryptocurrency adverts. This approach could be used more generally to look at social media and discussion forums at a granular level identifying specific words that impact the metric under investigation rather than overall sentiment.
Pectoral herding: an innovative tactic for humpback whale foraging
Authors: Kosma Madison M. , Werth Alexander J. , Szabo Andrew R. , Straley Janice M.
Published: October 2019

Humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) have exceptionally long pectorals (i.e. flippers) that aid in shallow water navigation, rapid acceleration and increased manoeuvrability. The use of pectorals to herd or manipulate prey has been hypothesized since the 1930s. We combined new technology and a unique viewing platform to document the additional use of pectorals to aggregate prey during foraging events. Here, we provide a description of ‘pectoral herding’ and explore the conditions that may promote this innovative foraging behaviour. Specifically, we analysed aerial videos and photographic sequences to assess the function of pectorals during feeding events near salmon hatchery release sites in Southeast Alaska (2016–2018). We observed the use of solo bubble-nets to initially corral prey, followed by calculated movements to establish a secondary boundary with the pectorals—further condensing prey and increasing foraging efficiency. We found three ways in which humpback whales use pectorals to herd prey: (i) create a physical barrier to prevent evasion, (ii) cause water motion to guide prey towards the mouth, and (iii) position the ventral side to reflect light and alter prey movement. Our findings suggest that behavioural plasticity may aid foraging in changing environments and shifts in prey availability. Further study would clarify if ‘pectoral herding’ is used as a principal foraging tool by the broader humpback whale population and the conditions that promote its use.
Synthetic apparent diffusion coefficient for high b-value diffusion weighted MRI in Prostate
Authors: Sahoo Prativa , Rockne Russell , Alexander Jung , Gupta Pradeep K , Gupta Rakesh K
Published: October 2019

Purpose

It has been reported that diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) with ultrahigh b-value increases the diagnostic power of prostate cancer. DWI imaging with higher b-values is challenging as it commonly suffers from low signal to noise ratio (SNR), distortion and longer scan time. The aim of our study was to develop a technique for quantification of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) for higher b-values from lower b-value DW images.

Materials and Methods

Fifteen patient (7 malignant, 8 benign) with prostate cancer were included in this study retrospectively with the institutional ethical committee approval. All images were acquired at 3T MR scanner. The ADC values were calculated using mono-exponential model. Synthetic ADC (sADC) for higher b-value were computed using a log-linear model. Contrast ratio (CR) between prostate lesion and normal tissue on synthetic DWI (sDWI) was computed and compared with original DWI and ADC images.

Results

No significant difference was observed between actual ADC and sADC for b-2000 in all prostate lesions. However; CR increased significantly (p=0.002, paired t-test) in sDWI as compared to DWI. Malignant lesions showed significantly lower sADC as compared to benign lesion (p=0.0116, independent t-test). Mean (±standard deviation) of sADC of malignant lesions was 0.601±0.06 and for benign lesions was 0.92 ± 0.09 (10−3mm2/s).

Discussion / Conclusion

Our initial investigation suggests that the ADC values corresponding to higher b-value can be computed using log-linear relationship derived from lower b-values (b≤1000). Our method might help clinician to decide the optimal b-value for prostate lesion identification.
Mosquito exposure and malaria morbidity; a micro-level analysis of household mosquito populations and malaria in a population-based longitudinal cohort in western Kenya
Authors: O’Meara Wendy Prudhomme , Simmons Ryan , Bullins Paige , Freedman Betsy , Abel Lucy , Mangeni Judith , Taylor Steve M. , Obala Andrew A.
Published: October 2019

Background

Malaria morbidity is highly overdispersed in the population. Fine-scale differences in mosquito exposure may partially explain this heterogeneity. However, exposure variability has not been related to individual malaria outcomes.

Methods

We established a cohort of 38 households to explore the effect of household-level mosquito exposure and individual insecticide treated net(ITN) use on relative risk(RR) of diagnostically-confirmed malaria. We conducted monthly active surveillance (n=254; 2,624 person-months) and weekly mosquito collection in all households (2,092 household-days of collection). We used molecular techniques to confirm human blood feeding and exposure to infectious mosquitoes.

Results

Of 1,494 female anopheles (89.8% Anopheles gambiae s.l.). 88.3% were fed, 51.9% had a human bloodmeal, and 9.2% were sporozoite-infected. 168 laboratory-confirmed malaria episodes were reported (incidence rate 0.064 episodes per person-month at risk, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.055,0.074). Malaria risk was directly associated with exposure to sporozoite-infected mosquitoes (RR=1.24, 95%CI:1.11,1.38). No direct effect was measured between ITN use and malaria morbidity, however, ITN use did moderate the effect of mosquito exposure on morbidity.

Conclusions

Malaria risk increases linearly with vector density and feeding success for persons with low ITN use. In contrast, malaria risk among high ITN users is consistently low and insensitive to variation in mosquito exposure.

In this study, we measure the relationship between fine-scale spatio-temporal heterogeneity in exposure to infected and successfully-fed malaria vectors, the incidence of malaria, and their interaction with ITN use in a population-based cohort.
Previously undetected superspreading ofMycobacterium tuberculosisrevealed by deep sequencing
Authors: Lee Robyn S. , Proulx Jean-François , McIntosh Fiona , Behr Marcel A. , Hanage William P.
Published: October 2019

Tuberculosis disproportionately affects the Canadian Inuit. To address this, it is imperative we understand transmission dynamics in this population. We investigate whether ‘deep’ sequencing can provide additional resolution compared to standard sequencing, using a well-characterized outbreak from the Arctic (2011-2012, 50 cases). Samples were sequenced to ~500-1000x and reads were aligned to a novel local reference genome generated with PacBio SMRT sequencing. Consensus and heterogeneous variants were identified and compared across genomes. In contrast with previous genomic analyses using ~50x depth, deep sequencing allowed us to identify a novel super-spreader who likely transmitted to up to 17 other cases during the outbreak (35% of all cases that year). It is increasingly evident that within-host diversity should be incorporated into transmission analyses; deep sequencing can facilitate accurately detection of super-spreaders and corresponding transmission clusters. This has implications not only for TB, but all genomic studies of transmission - regardless of pathogen.
Geographical distribution of Anopheles stephensi in eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Balkew Meshesha , Mumba Peter , Dengela Dereje , Yohannes Gedeon , Getachew Dejene , Yared Solomon , Chibsa Sheleme , Murphy Matthew , George Kristen , Lopez Karen , Janies Daniel , Choi Sae Hee , Spear Joseph , Irish Seth R. , Carter Tamar E.
Published: October 2019

Background

The recent detection of the South Asian malaria vector An. stephensi in Ethiopia and other regions in the Horn of Africa has raised concerns about its potential impact on malaria transmission. We report here findings of survey for this species in eastern Ethiopia using both morphological and molecular methods for species identification.

Methods

Adult and larval/pupal collections were conducted at ten sites in eastern Ethiopia and Anopheles specimens’ species were determined using standard morphological keys and genetic analysis.

Results

In total, 2,231 morphologically identified An. stephensi were collected. A molecular approach incorporating both PCR endpoint assay and sequencing of portions of the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) and cytochrome oxidase I (COI) loci confirmed the identity of the An. stephensi in most cases (119/124 of the morphologically identified An. stephensi confirmed molecularly). Additionally, we observed Aedes aegypti larvae and pupae at many of the An. stephensi larval habitats.

Conclusions

Our findings show that An. stephensi is widely distributed in eastern Ethiopia and highlight the need for further surveillance in the southern, western and northern parts of the country and throughout the Horn of Africa.
Junction-skipping regulation in complex disease
Authors: Liu Ruize , Karjalainen Juha , Byrnes Andrea , Cummings Beryl B. , Gormley Padhraig , Ruan Yunfeng , Park Yongjin , Hou Lei , Nguyen Khoi T. , Xavier Ramnik , Daly Mark J. , Huang Hailiang
Published: October 2019

Multiple mRNA isoforms can be generated from a single gene locus through alternative splicing. Abnormality in alternative splicing has been linked to many human disorders. Here using RNA-seq data from 48 tissues from GTEx v7 release and summary statistics from GWAS of complex diseases and traits, we present a study to identify genomic variants regulating junction-skipping with the goal to understand their contribution to complex diseases and traits. For each tissue, we found 48 - 575 junction-skipping events regulated by genomic variants. We performed fine-mapping on both the junction-skipping association and 23 complex disease and trait associations and mapped them to 95% credible sets. We found 13 - 279 junction-skipping regulations were mapped to a credible set with ≤5 variants. On the genome-wide scale, we noted a clear disease-tissue specificity. Results from this approach provided critical insights into the functional mechanism of the genetic disease associations and contributed to our understanding of the genetic architecture of human complex disorders.
The total fungal microbiome functionality
Authors: Starke Robert , Capek Petr , Morais Daniel , Jehmlich Nico , Baldrian Petr
Published: October 2019

Unveiling the relationship between taxonomy and function of the microbiome is crucial to determine its contribution to ecosystem functioning. However, while there is a considerable amount of information on microbial taxonomic diversity, our understanding of its relationship to functional diversity is still scarce. Here we used a meta-analysis of 377 completely annotated and taxonomically different fungal genomes to predict the total fungal microbiome functionality on Earth with all known functions from level 3 of KEGG Orthology using both parametric and non-parametric estimations. The unsaturated model described the accumulation of functions with increasing species richness significantly better (P-value < 2.2e−16) than the saturated model suggesting the presence of widespread and rare functions. Consistent with the parametric approach, the non-parametric Chao-1 estimator that assumes a maximum functional richness did not reach a plateau. Based on previous estimates of fungal species richness on Earth, we propagated the unsaturated model to predict a total fungal microbiome functionality of 42.4 million. Of those, only 0.06% are known today since the vast majority belongs to yet unknown rare functions. Logically, our approach not only highlighted the presence of two types of functions but pointed towards the necessity of novel and more sophisticated methods to unveil the entirety of functions to fully understand the involvement of the fungal microbiome in ecosystem functioning.
Persistent DNA Hyper-methylation Dampens Host Anti-Mycobacterial Immunity
Authors: DiNardo Andrew R. , Rajapakshe Kimal , Nishiguchi Tomoki , Mtetwa Godwin , Dlamini Qiniso , Kahari Jaqueline , Mahapatra Sanjana , Kay Alexander , Maphalala Gugu , Mace Emily , Grimm Sandra L. , Makedonas George , Cirillo Jeffrey D , Netea Mihai G. , van Crevel Reinout , Coarfa Cristian , Mandalakas Anna M.
Published: October 2019

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) has co-evolved with humans for millennia and developed multiple mechanisms to evade host immunity. Restoring host immunity in order to shorten existing therapy and improve outcomes will require identifying the full complement by which host immunity is inhibited. Perturbing host DNA methylation is a mechanism induced by chronic infections such as HIV, HPV, LCMV and schistosomiasis to evade host immunity. Here, we evaluated the DNA methylation status of TB patients and their asymptomatic household contacts demonstrating that TB patients have DNA hyper-methylation of the IL-2-STAT5, TNF-NF-ϰB and IFN-γ signaling pathways. By MSRE-qPCR, multiple genes of the IL-12-IFN-γ signaling pathway (IL12B, IL12RB2, TYK2, IFNGR1, JAK1 and JAK2) were hyper-methylated in TB patients. The DNA hyper-methylation of these pathways is associated with decreased immune responsiveness with decreased mitogen induced upregulation of IFN-γ, TNF, IL-6 and IL-1β production. The DNA hyper-methylation of the IL-12-IFN-γ pathway was associated with decreased IFN-γ induced gene expression and decreased IL-12 inducible up-regulation of IFN-γ. This work demonstrates that immune cells from TB patients are characterized by DNA hyper-methylation of genes critical to mycobacterial immunity resulting in decreased mycobacteria-specific and non-specific immune responsiveness.
Menstrual hygiene management practice and factors affecting it among high school females in Ambo City, Oromia state, Ethiopia, 2018: A cross-sectional mixed method
Authors: Shallo Seifadin Ahmed , Willi Wakeshi , Abubekar Abuzumeran
Published: October 2019

I.

Background

Though menstruation is normal physiology in the females’ life, if not managed safely, it can interrupt daily activity or it may lead to health problems. Poor water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities in schools, inadequate puberty education and lack of hygienic menstrual hygiene management items (absorbents) cause girls to experience menstruation as shameful and uncomfortable. This study aimed to assess the extent of unsafe menstrual hygiene practice and factors influencing it among school females in Ambo, Ethiopia.

Methods

an institutional-based mixed-method cross-sectional study was conducted from March 01 to 15/2018 to collect data from 364 school females, teachers, and investigators observation. To collect the data, self-administered technique, interview, observational and FGD techniques were used. Data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software version 20. Uni-variate, bivariate and multiple logistic regression analysis were done. With 95% CI, the P-value of less than 0.05 was taken as the level of significance.

Results

the prevalence of the unsafe menstrual hygiene management practice was 53.6%, which implies urgent response from the stakeholders is of paramount importance. Factors such as the age of the females, frequency of discussing menses with mothers and source of information about menses were variables significantly associated with menstrual hygiene management practice.

Conclusion and Recommendation

High numbers of school females’ menstrual hygiene management were poorly managed. This implies urgent measure is needed from the stakeholders to solve these problems so that sustainable development goal number 3, 4 and 5 will be achieved. To rid off the current problems which school females are facing, comprehensive and different sectors collaboration is important. Specifically, education sectors, water and sanitation sectors, and health sectors bear the frontline responsibilities.