bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interface in AdS black hole spacetime
Authors: Nagasaki Koichi
Published: December 2019

We consider a defect solution in the anti-de Sitter (AdS) black hole spacetime. This is a generalization of the previous work [K. Nagasaki et al., J. High Energy Phys. 1201, 139 (2012)] to another spacetime. This system consists of D3- and D5-branes. The equation of motion for a sort of nonlocal operator, an “interface”, is given and its numerical solution is shown by the numerical calculation. We also consider a string extending between this interface and the boundary of the AdS spacetime. This corresponds to the quark–interface potential in the boundary theory of the bulk black hole spacetime. This result gives a new example of a holographic relation that includes the gauge flux in the probe D5-brane.
NICE update NICE public health guidance update
Authors: Roberts Susan , Nolan Kay , Shearn Peter , Raynor Michael , Leng Gillian
Published: December 2019

This article covers recently published National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance relevant to public health and a review of evidence published since we released the NICE guidance on unintentional injury prevention in under 15 year olds. The article features some of this evidence that was found to reinforce published recommendations on safety in the home and on the roads, indicating the guidance remains up to date and relevant. In addition, it importantly highlights that there is great opportunity to prevent future unintentional injury through integrated and coordinated, evidence and intelligence-informed approaches.
Low acetylcholine during early sleep is important for motor memory consolidation
Authors: Inayat Samsoon , Qandeel  , Nazariahangarkolaee Mojtaba , Singh Surjeet , McNaughton Bruce L , Whishaw Ian Q , Mohajerani Majid H
Published: December 2019

The synaptic homeostasis theory of sleep proposes that low neurotransmitter activity in sleep optimizes memory consolidation. We tested this theory by asking whether increasing acetylcholine levels during early sleep would weaken motor memory consolidation. We trained separate groups of adult mice on the rotarod walking task and the single pellet reaching task, and after training, administered physostigmine, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, to increase cholinergic tone in subsequent sleep. Post-sleep testing showed that physostigmine impaired motor skill acquisition of both tasks. Home-cage video monitoring and electrophysiology revealed that physostigmine disrupted sleep structure, delayed non-rapid-eye-movement sleep onset, and reduced slow-wave power in the hippocampus and cortex. Additional experiments showed that: (1) the impaired performance associated with physostigmine was not due to its effects on sleep structure, as 1 h of sleep deprivation after training did not impair rotarod performance, (2) a reduction in cholinergic tone by inactivation of cholinergic neurons during early sleep did not affect rotarod performance, and (3) stimulating or blocking muscarinic and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors did not impair rotarod performance. Taken together, the experiments suggest that the increased slow wave activity and inactivation of both muscarinic and nicotinic receptors during early sleep due to reduced acetylcholine contribute to motor memory consolidation.
Larke v Nugus: practical points in an unsettled environment
Authors: Lawson Stephen
Published: December 2019

The Court of Appeal decision in Larke v Nugus was handed down in 1979. Practitioners thought that the process of disclosing information from a Will Preparation File once a Will was in dispute was well established – but there have recently been considerable changes. The Law Society produced a new version of its Practice Note in December 2018. There are disagreements between stakeholders about the steps to be taken upon receipt of a Larke v Nugus letter. Some practices must cease forthwith. This article discusses these issues.
Dying trusts, living trusts
Authors: Stone Edward
Published: December 2019

The popularity of trusts has been on a long downward trend in the UK. According to the latest data published by HMRC in September 2019, the total number of trusts and estates registered for tax in the UK has fallen by almost one third since April 2006 to 150,000 and the number of interest in possession trusts has almost halved over the same period to 49,000. The decline is explored in this article and how it could be halted by adopting US-style “living trusts”.
Representativity and Networked Interference in Data-Rich Field Experiments: A Large-Scale RCT in Rural Mexico
Authors: Noriega Alejandro , Pentland Alex
Published: December 2019

Modern availability of rich geospatial datasets and analysis tools can provide insight germane to the design of field experiments. Design of field experiments, and in particular the choice of sampling strategy, requires careful consideration of its consequences on the external representativity and interference (SUTVA violations) of the experimental sample. This paper presents a methodology for a) modeling the geospatial and social interaction factors that drive interference in rural field experiments; and b) eliciting a set of nondominated sample options that approximate the Pareto-optimal tradeoff between interference and external representativity, as functions of sample choice. The study develops and tests the methodology in the context of a large-scale health experiment in rural Mexico, involving more than 3,000 pregnant women and 600 health clinics across 5 states. Relevant for the practitioner, the methodology is computationally tractable and can be implemented leveraging open sourced geo-spatial data and software tools.
“I want to feel like I used to feel”: a qualitative study of causes of low libido in postmenopausal women
Authors: Thomas Holly N. , Hamm Megan , Hess Rachel , Borrero Sonya , Thurston Rebecca C.
Published: December 2019

Objective:

Low libido is common among women over 60 and negatively impacts well-being and relationship satisfaction. Causes of low libido in this age group are not well understood. We used qualitative methods to explore older women's perceptions of causes of low libido.

Methods:

We conducted 15 individual interviews and 3 focus groups (total N = 36) among sexually active women 60 and older who screened positive for low libido using a validated instrument. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded using a codebook developed by two investigators. Codes were examined, and themes related to causes of low libido emerged.

Results:

Women noted a number of different factors that contributed to low libido. The common factors that women discussed included postmenopausal vaginal symptoms, erectile dysfunction in male partners, fatigue and bodily pain, life stressors, and body image concerns. Women often found ways to adapt to these factors. These adaptations required open communication between partners regarding sex, and some women noted these conversations were difficult or not successful.

Conclusions:

A wide variety of factors contribute to low libido in women over 60, but many of these factors are addressable. Low libido in older women should not be automatically attributed to “normal” aging or to menopause; providers should take an approach to assessment and treatment that addresses biological, interpersonal and social, and psychological factors.

Video Summary
: http://links.lww.com/MENO/A499
The Relationship Between Fighting Style, Cognition, and Regional Brain Volume in Professional Combatants: A Preliminary Examination Using Brief Neurocognitive Measures
Authors: Stephen Steve J. , Shan Guogen , Banks Sarah J. , Bernick Charles , Bennett Lauren L.
Published: December 2019

Objective:

Repetitive head impacts (RHIs) in combat sports are associated with cognitive decline and brain volume reduction. While fighting style differences between boxers, mixed martial artists (MMAs), and martial artists (MAs) have resulted in a broader spectrum of injury, the effects of RHIs on MAs relative to other fighters have not yet been explored. This study aimed to determine a differential effect of fighting style on cognition and brain.

Setting:

A large outpatient medical center specializing in neurological care.

Participants, Design, and Main Measures:

In total, 40 MAs, 188 boxers, and 279 MMAs were compared on baseline measures of subcortical regional brain volumes, after controlling for total brain volumes, and cognitive performance.

Results:

Significant differences between MAs, MMAs, and boxers were observed in subcortical brain structure volumes and cognitive measures. MMAs and MAs consistently had larger volumes and higher scores than boxers. Fighting style significantly moderated the relationship between the number of professional fights and the volumes of various subcortical brain structures and performance on a measure of processing speed at baseline.

Conclusions:

Differences in RHIs across fighting styles may be of clinical significance. Exploring changes over time within the MA, boxer, and MMA cohorts may provide insight into longer-term discrepancies in subcortical regional brain volumes and cognitive functioning across fighting styles.
An International Exploration of the Effect of Media Portrayals of Postconcussion Management on Concussion Identification in the General Public
Authors: Ku Cindy , McKinlay Audrey , Grace Randolph C. , Linden Mark , McLellan Tracey
Published: December 2019

Background:

Concussion portrayal in media broadcasts of sporting events may contribute to lack of public understanding regarding concussion.

Methods:

In total, 828 participants from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom completed a questionnaire assessing concussion knowledge. Participants were randomly assigned to either receive sports return-to-play (RTP) guideline information (RTP group) or not (no-RTP group). Participants viewed 12 short clips from televised rugby games and indicated whether they believed the player in each clip had sustained a concussion. Participants were then informed whether the player was removed, returned, or stayed in the game and again asked whether they thought a concussion had occurred.

Results:

Probability of reporting a likely concussion over all videos was 65.6%. When told a player's possible concussion was managed by removal from the game, participants were more likely to change their response from “no” (no concussion) to “yes” (concussion) than from “yes” to “no.” When told the player stayed or returned to the game, participants were more likely to change their response from “yes” (concussion) to “no” (no concussion) than from “no” to “yes.” There was no significant main effect for RTP guideline manipulation or interaction effect with RTP information.

Conclusion:

Additional player's injury management information influenced participants' judgments of concussion occurrence. Results show that information provided via sports media broadcasts influenced viewers' perceptions of concussion and appropriate concussion management.
The real world and thinking of thyroid cancer in China
Authors: Han Lin , Wu Zhen , Li Wenlei , Li Yingxue , Ma Jinglin , Wu Xinxin , Wen Wenjuan , Li Rui , Yao Yumin , Wang Yongkun
Published: December 2019

The incidence of thyroid cancer has increased year by year, which has a major impact on the physical and mental health of patients. At the same time, it has a heavy psychological and economic burden on society and individuals. Based on the actual data of the thyroid cancer in Liaocheng People’ Hospital in 2017, combine with the national and regional characteristics of China, this paper analyzes and discusses the controversy of initial thyroid operation modus.

Materials and methods:

The clinical and pathologic data of 552 patients of thyroid cancer were collected from the department of thyroid surgery, who were initially discovered and treated surgically. 40 patients underwent endoscopic surgery, the range of resection was lobectomy+central lymph node dissection of the affected lobe. There were 512 cases underwent open operation with total thyroidectomy+central lymph node dissection, 239 of which were treated with neck lateral lymph node dissection at the same time.

Results:

The overall metastasis rate of all patients was 59.42%. Even the lymph node metastasis of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma was as high as 46.92%. When the mass rose above 2 cm, the proportion of metastasis increased to 77.53%. When the tumor was complicated with bilateral and multiple high risk factor etc the proportion of metastasis were 63.54% and 71.19%, respectively. Meanwhile, the incidence of contralateral accidental malignancy was 7.25% after postoperative paraffin pathology.

Conclusion:

The malignant degree of thyroid cancer depends on the evolution of the tumor genome and there is a high rate of neck lymph node metastasis, especially when associated with high risk factors. It is recommended that at least total thyroidectomy+central lymph node dissection should be performed in initial treatment in China to avoid the risk of secondary operation and the burden of body and mind.
Reflections on the Performance of Emotion, Masculinity, and Position Within a Prison Ethnography
Authors: Stewart Warren
Published: December 2019

In this article, a selection of emotionally charged situations encountered while conducting an ethnographic research project in a prison in the United Kingdom are outlined and analyzed. With reference to three impressionistic field notes, the researcher's responses to interpersonal challenges, and subsequent attempts at impression management, particularly in relation to maintaining a broadly “neutral” and “credible” status are described. The challenges were experienced in the context of the researcher's position within the hierarchical and gendered nature of prison culture; it is argued that the subsequent subjective feelings of ambivalence are characteristic of the relational uncertainties found within prison settings. Reflecting on the impact of emotionally loaded interpersonal encounters helps to support and enrich the quality of the analysis and research. Furthermore, the learning from this process may help researchers undertaking fieldwork in other closed institutions with similar features and with other vulnerable populations.
The Endoscopic Relationship of the Stapedius Muscle to the Facial Nerve: Implications for Retrotympanic Surgery
Authors: Rubini Alessia , Jufas Nicholas , Marchioni Daniele , Saxby Alexander J. , Kong Jonathan H. K. , Patel Nirmal P.
Published: December 2019

Objectives:

The stapedius muscle, tendon, and pyramidal eminence are structures within the retrotympanum. In cholesteatoma surgery, the retrotympanum is a common site of residual disease. The removal of the pyramidal eminence during surgery is sometimes necessary to obtain better visualization of the superior retrotympanum during surgery. Understanding the relational anatomy of structures in the region to the facial nerve allows the surgeon to safely access regional disease. This study aims to better understand the anatomical relationship between the mastoid portion of the facial nerve, the pyramidal eminence, and the stapedius muscle. A secondary aim is to demonstrate that removal of the stapedius muscle in the cadaver model, can increase exposure to the retrotympanic space.

Study Design:

Anatomical cadaveric observation study.

Methods:

Endoscopic dissection of cadaveric heads was undertaken. Classification of the superior and inferior retrotympanic area was performed. The anatomy of the stapedius muscle was described including relationships, depth, course, and angle with respect to the facial nerve. The pyramidal eminence and stapedius muscle were removed in all specimens and the exposure of the retrotympanum re-evaluated to determine if exposure of the region was increased.

Results:

In all cases (11 ears), the stapedius muscle was located medial and anterior to the mastoid portion of the facial nerve, with the second genu superior. The mean antero-posterior distance from the apex of the pyramidal eminence, which the stapedius tendon enters, to the stapes itself was 4.10 mm (range, 2.92–5.73 mm; standard deviation [SD] 0.90 mm). In all cases, irrespective of sinus tympani conformation, removal of the pyramidal eminence and stapedial bony crest in proximity to the facial nerve allowed exposure of the whole retrotympanic region, using a 0-degree endoscope.

Conclusions:

The pyramidal eminence and stapedius muscle have a relatively constant relationship to the facial nerve. Removal of the stapedius muscle in the human cadaver model increases the exposure of the sinus tympani and subpyramidal space. Increased visualization in this region, may reduce risk of residual cholesteatoma in patients.
Systematic analysis of therapeutic patterns and healthcare use during 12 months before inflammatory bowel disease-related hospitalization in Switzerland
Authors: Schoepfer Alain , Vavricka Stephan R. , Brüngger Beat , Blozik Eva , Bähler Caroline
Published: December 2019

Background and aims

Given the lack of data, we aimed to systematically analyze therapeutic patterns and health resource utilization in the year before inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)-related hospitalization.

Methods

Based on claims data of the Helsana health insurance group, therapy patterns and health resource utilization were assessed, and costs reimbursed by mandatory basic health insurance were calculated during a one-year period before an index hospitalization between 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2015.

Results

We analyzed 344 IBD patients (140 ulcerative colitis [40.7%], 204 Crohn’s disease [59.3%]). Drug regimens applied in the year before index hospitalization were as follows: no IBD drugs (43.6% ulcerative colitis, 43.1% Crohn’s disease); 5-ASA (45.7% ulcerative colitis, 19.1% Crohn’s disease); local steroids (17.9% ulcerative colitis, 17.6% Crohn’s disease); systemic steroids (38.6% ulcerative colitis, 29.4% Crohn’s disease); immunomodulators (10.7% ulcerative colitis, 18.1% Crohn’s disease); biologics (10% ulcerative colitis, 24% Crohn’s disease); and calcineurin inhibitors (2.1% ulcerative colitis, 1.5% Crohn’s disease). Forty-five percent of ulcerative colitis patients and 31.4% of Crohn’s disease patients had no diagnostic procedures [computed tomography (CT), MRI, radiograph, sonography, colonoscopy, and calprotectin] in the year before hospitalization. Total annual health care costs before index hospitalization was EUR 4060 (interquartile range (IQR) 2360–7390) for ulcerative colitis and EUR 4900 (IQR 1520–14 880) for Crohn’s disease patients, respectively.

Conclusions

Over 40% of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease patients did not receive any treatment in the year before index hospitalization. Efforts should be launched to timely diagnose and adequately treat IBD outpatients.
Clinical efficacy and safety of anticoagulation therapy for Pyrrolizidine alkaloids-induced hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome: a retrospective multicenter cohort study
Authors: Peng Chunyan , Zhang Xiaofeng , Zhang Feng , Liu Longgen , Shao Youlin , Xiang Xiaoxing , Zhang Wei , Xiao Jiangqiang , Wang Yi , Zhang Bin , Yin Qin , Song Yuhu , Mo Zhe , Zou Xiaoping , Zhang Ming , Zhuge Yuzheng
Published: December 2019

Aim

Pyrrolizidine alkaloids-induced hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome(PA-HSOS) has been reported to have high mortality. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of anticoagulation therapy for the patients with PA-HSOS.

Methods

We collected clinical data on 249 PA-HSOS patients from January 2012 to December 2017 at four tertiary care hospitals. Among them, 151 patients received anticoagulation therapy, and 98 patients received supportive treatment. The outcomes were analyzed using the Fine and Gray competing risk analysis method and Cox regression model.

Results

The cumulative complete response rate was higher in the anticoagulation group than in the supportive group (60.9 vs 36.7%; P < 0.0001). The cumulative mortality was 12.6% in the anticoagulation group compared with 43.9% in the supportive group (P < 0.0001). In subgroup analysis, for mild, moderate, severe, and very severe groups, the adjusted hazard ratios [95% confidence interval (CI)] for complete response rates were 7.05 (3.00–16.59), 5.26 (2.31–12.42), 2.59 (0.85–7.87), and 2.05 (0.61–6.92), respectively; and the adjusted hazard ratios (95% CI) for mortalities were 0.02 (0.01–0.09), 0.04 (0.01–0.14), 0.19 (0.01–3.98), and 0.07 (0.02–1.27), respectively (P < 0.0001). There was no significant difference between both groups in the incidence of bleeding events (P = 0.674).

Conclusions

Anticoagulation therapy improves clinical remission and the survival in selected patients with mild or moderate PA-HSOS. Anticoagulation therapy has a similar safety profile to supportive therapy.
Expanding Application of the Long-Term Quality of Life Instrument to the Population of Women Undergoing Treatment of Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Kamp Kendra , Flanigan Megan , Thana Kanjana , Terpstra Jodi , Wyatt Gwen , Sikorskii Alla
Published: December 2019

Background

The Long-Term Quality of Life (LTQL) instrument was designed for female cancer survivors who have completed treatment and includes an existential spirituality subscale that is omitted in many other quality of life scales. Women with advanced breast cancer are now living longer, while also expressing greater spiritual concerns.

Objective

The objective of this analysis was to test the psychometric properties of the LTQL among women undergoing treatment of advanced breast cancer.

Methods

This secondary analysis was based on a sample of 385 women. Validity was evaluated using a confirmatory factor analysis and associations with Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast Cancer. Internal consistency reliability was assessed using Cronbach's α for each subscale of the LTQL.

Results

The mean age was 56 years, 84% of participants were white, and 69% had metastasis. Model fit indices for the confirmatory factor analysis were acceptable, with the root mean square error of approximation of 0.076 (90% confidence interval, 0.071–0.081) and a comparative fit index of 0.91. The LTQL subscale scores were significantly correlated with the subscales of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast Cancer of similar conceptual content. Internal consistency reliability for the subscales ranged from 0.80 to 0.86.

Conclusions

The factor structure of the LTQL was consistent with previous findings in long-term female cancer survivors. The instrument has adequate psychometric properties for use among women with advanced breast cancer.

Implications for Practice

The LTQL can be used to assess the physical, psychosocial, and existential spiritual domains of quality of life among women with advanced breast cancer as well as in long-term female cancer survivors.
Central Drive to the Paretic Ankle Plantarflexors Affects the Relationship Between Propulsion and Walking Speed After Stroke
Authors: Awad Louis N. , Hsiao HaoYuan , Binder-Macleod Stuart A.
Published: December 2019

Background and Purpose:

The ankle plantarflexor muscles are the primary generators of propulsion during walking. Impaired paretic plantarflexion is a key contributor to interlimb propulsion asymmetry after stroke. Poststroke muscle weakness may be the result of a reduced force-generating capacity, reduced central drive, or a combination of these impairments. This study sought to elucidate the relationship between the neuromuscular function of the paretic plantarflexor muscles and propulsion deficits across individuals with different walking speeds.

Methods:

For 40 individuals poststroke, we used instrumented gait analysis and dynamometry coupled with supramaximal electrostimulation to study the interplay between limb kinematics, the neuromuscular function of the paretic plantarflexors (ie, strength capacity and central drive), propulsion, and walking speed.

Results:

The strength capacity of the paretic plantarflexors was not independently related to paretic propulsion. Reduced central drive to the paretic plantarflexors independently contributed to paretic propulsion deficits. An interaction between walking speed and plantarflexor central drive was observed. Individuals with slower speeds and lower paretic plantarflexor central drive presented with the largest propulsion impairments. Some study participants with low paretic plantarflexor central drive presented with similarly fast speeds as those with near-normal central drive by leveraging a compensatory reliance on nonparetic propulsion. The final model accounted for 86% of the variance in paretic propulsion (R
2 = 0.86, F = 33.10, P < 0.001).

Discussion and Conclusions:

Individuals poststroke have latent paretic plantarflexion strength that they are not able to voluntarily access. The magnitude of central drive deficit is a strong indicator of propulsion impairment in both slow and fast walkers.

Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A298).
18F-FDG PET/CT Findings in Metastatic Pilomatrix Carcinoma
Authors: Sengoz Tarik , Avci Nilufer
Published: December 2019

We describe a rare case of metastatic pilomatrix carcinoma with distant metastases 10 months after diagnosis. A 37-year-old woman was diagnosed with pilomatrix carcinoma by excisional biopsy from the occipital region and referred to us for 18F-FDG PET/CT examinations at the time of diagnosis and 10 months after diagnosis. The first PET/CT did not show any pathological activity, whereas the second PET/CT showed multiple intensive 18F-FDG uptakes in the right lung parenchyma, right hemithorax pleura, liver, and bones.
68Ga–Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen PET/CT Findings in Extra-axial Metastasis From Prostate Carcinoma
Authors: Kulkarni Mukta , Vare Ajay , Shetkar Shubhangi , Surkar Prashant , Joshi Prathamesh , Kumar Kritik
Published: December 2019

A 67-year-old man with no previous history of malignancy presented with trigeminal neuralgia. MRI of the brain revealed extra-axial lesion along right trigeminal nerve suggestive of neuroma. On histopathology, the lesion was found to be metastasis from adenocarcinoma prostate. Patient underwent 68Ga–prostate-specific membrane antigen PET/CT for assessing the whole-body status of the disease, which revealed primary prostate lesion, metastatic bone lesions, and extra-axial lesion along the right trigeminal nerve. Extra-axial, intracranial metastasis from prostate carcinoma is an uncommon phenomenon. We describe 68Ga–prostate-specific membrane antigen PET/CT findings in an exceedingly rare case of extra-axial metastatic lesion from prostate carcinoma.
Prognostic Factors and Clinical Outcomes of Clinical Node-Negative Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma Patients
Authors: Chen Yi-Fan , Ma Hsu , Perng Cherng-Kang , Feng Chin-Jung
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Cutaneous malignant melanoma is notorious for its aggressive behavior and relatively poor outcome compared with other common skin malignancies. Acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM) accounts for at least 50% of melanoma in the Asian population and has a significantly lower survival rate. However, previous studies of the prognostic factors of melanoma-specific survival were all conducted from Western institutions. Here, we performed a retrospective analysis to investigate this issue.

Methods

Fifty patients diagnosed as having clinical node-negative cutaneous malignant melanoma who underwent sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy at Taipei Veterans General Hospital between January 2007 and December 2018 were enrolled. Patient demographics, tumor characteristics, and lymph node characteristics were evaluated by chart review.

Results

Eighty-two percent of the melanoma in the sample population was ALM. Twelve patients (24.0%) presented at least 1 metastatic sentinel node, and the average number of retrieved SLNs was 3. Of the patients with positive SLNs who proceeded to completion lymph node dissection, only 2 (16.7%) had metastatic nonsentinel nodes (NSNs). The average follow-up time for all patients was 45 months. Recurrence and melanoma-specific death occurred in 21 patients (42.0%) and 15 patients (30.0%), respectively. Melanoma-specific survival was significantly lower in patients with ulcerative lesions (P = 0.005) and more metastatic SLNs (P = 0.036). The overall morbidity rate of completion lymph node dissection was 66.7%.

Conclusions

The presence of ulcerations and number of metastatic SLNs were the most important prognostic factors in this ALM-dominant Asian cohort. Among patients with clinically negative nodes but positive SLNs, less than one-fourth of patients harbored metastatic NSNs. Completion lymph node dissection carries a relatively high risk of morbidity; therefore, further research regarding predictors of positive NSNs in the Asian population is necessary.
Evaluation of Polycaprolactone/Gelatin/Chitosan Electrospun Membrane for Peritoneal Adhesion Reduction
Authors: Huang Nan-Chieh , Teng Kai-Wen , Huang Nien-Chi , Kang Lan-Ya , Fu Keng-Yen , Hsieh Pai-Shan , Dai Lien-Guo , Dai Niann-Tzyy
Published: December 2019

In this study, a novel antiadhesion membrane made of polycaprolactone, gelatin, and chitosan was fabricated using the electrospinning technique. A series of polycaprolactone/gelatin/chitosan (PGC) electrospun membranes with different amounts of chitosan (0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2% in weight percentage) was synthesized. The physicochemical properties and biocompatibility of the fabricated membranes were examined and compared with the aim to select an effective antiadhesion membrane. Scanning electron microscopy showed that these 4 electrospun membranes had similar fiber diameter and pore area, with no statistical differences between them. Furthermore, the contact angle decreased with increased chitosan content, indicating that chitosan may contribute to increased hydrophilic properties. The in vitro degradation test revealed that the higher chitosan content corresponded to a lower degradation rate in PGC membranes within 7 days. All PGC membranes exhibited similar cell proliferation; however, cell proliferation was lower than tissue culture polystyrene (P< 0.05). To compare antiadhesion ability, the adhesion between the cecum and abdominal wall was created in a rat model. Assessment after implantation of electrospun membranes revealed that PGCs with higher chitosan content (PGC2) had better antiadhesion effects, as evaluated by an adhesion score at day 14 postsurgery. Thus, PGC2 was effective in reducing the formation of tissue adhesion. Therefore, PGC electrospun membrane may provide a potential peritoneal antiadhesion barrier for clinical use.
Predation drives the evolution of brain cell proliferation and brain allometry in male Trinidadian killifish,
Rivulus hartii
Authors: Dunlap Kent D. , Corbo Joshua H. , Vergara Margarita M. , Beston Shannon M. , Walsh Matthew R.
Published: December 2019

The external environment influences brain cell proliferation, and this might contribute to brain plasticity underlying adaptive behavioural changes. Additionally, internal genetic factors influence the brain cell proliferation rate. However, to date, researchers have not examined the importance of environmental versus genetic factors in causing natural variation in brain cell proliferation. Here, we examine brain cell proliferation and brain growth trajectories in free-living populations of Trinidadian killifish,
Rivulus hartii
, exposed to contrasting predation environments. Compared to populations without predators, populations in high predation (HP) environments exhibited higher rates of brain cell proliferation and a steeper brain growth trajectory (relative to body size). To test whether these differences in the wild persist in a common garden environment, we reared first-generation fish originating from both predation environments in uniform laboratory conditions. Just as in the wild, brain cell proliferation and brain growth in the common garden were greater in HP populations than in no predation populations. The differences in cell proliferation observed across the brain in both the field and common garden studies indicate that the differences are probably genetically based and are mediated by evolutionary shifts in overall brain growth and life-history traits.
Investigation of skin microbiota reveals Mycobacterium ulcerans-Aspergillus sp. trans-kingdom communication
Authors: Hammoudi N. , Cassagne C , Million M. , Ranque S , Kabore O. , Drancourt M. , Zingue D. , Bouam A.
Published: December 2019

Background

Mycobacterium ulcerans secrete a series of non-ribosomal-encoded toxins known as mycolactones that are responsible for causing a disabling ulceration of the skin and subcutaneous tissues named Buruli ulcer. The disease is the sole non-contagion among the three most common mycobacterial diseases in humans. Direct contact with contaminated wetlands is a risk factor for Buruli ulcer, responsible for M. ulcerans skin carriage before transcutaneous inoculation with this opportunistic pathogen.

Methodology and principal findings

In this study, we analysed the bacterial and fungal skin microbiota in individuals exposed to M. ulcerans in Burkina Faso. We showed that M. ulcerans-specific DNA sequences were detected on the unbreached skin of 6/52 (11.5%) asymptomatic farmers living in Sindou versus 0/52 (0%) of those living in the non-endemic region of Tenkodogo. Then, we cultured the skin microbiota of asymptomatic M. ulcerans carriers and negative control individuals, all living in the region of Sindou. A total of 84 different bacterial and fungal species were isolated, 21 from M. ulcerans-negative skin samples, 31 from M. ulcerans-positive samples and 32 from both. More specifically, Actinobacteria, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus were significantly associated with M. ulcerans skin carriage. We further observed that in vitro, mycolactones induced spore germination of A. flavus, attracting the fungal network.

Conclusion

These unprecedented observations suggest that interactions with fungi may modulate the outcome of M. ulcerans skin carriage, opening new venues to the understanding of Buruli ulcer pathology, prophylaxis and treatment of this still neglected tropical infection.

Author summary

Buruli ulcer is a chronic infectious disease caused by the environmental opportunistic pathogen Mycobacterium ulcerans which secretes an exotoxin responsible for its pathogenicity. The reservoir and sources of M. ulcerans in the environment remain elusive and its mode of transmission is unclear. To acquire M. ulcerans infection, at least two conditions must be met, viable bacteria and a skin lesion as demonstrated by experimental animal models. In this study, we showed that M. ulcerans specific DNA sequences could be detected on the healthy skin of asymptomatic farmers living in one region of Burkina Faso where Buruli ulcer cases had already been reported, but not in Buruli ulcer-free regions, suggesting skin carriage after contacts with environmental sources. We also investigated the skin microbiota of M. ulcerans carriers and found significant associations of some bacteria and fungi with skin carriage of M. ulcerans. These associations may due to the effect of mycolactones on some fungi species. As we showed previously with Mucor circinelloides and here with Aspergillus flavus.
Graph Embedding Method Based Genetical Trajectory Reveals Migration History Among East Asians
Authors: Wei Zhuang , Chang Ching-Wen , Luo Van , Bian Beilei , Ding Xuewei
Published: December 2019

An important issue in human population genetics is the ancestry. By extracting the ancestral information retained in the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of genomic DNA, the history of migration and reproduction of the population can be reconstructed. Since the SNP data of population are multidimensional, their dimensionality reduction can demonstrate their potential internal connections. In this study, the graph and structure learning based Graph Embedding method commonly used in single cell mRNA sequencing was applied to human population genetics research to decrease the data dimension. As a result, the human population trajectory of East Asia based on 1000 Genomes Project was reconstructed to discover the inseparable relationship between the Chinese population and other East Asian populations. These results are visualized from various ancestry calculators such as E11 and K12B. Finally, the unique SNPs along the psudotime of trajectory were found by differential analysis. Bioprocess enrichment analysis was also used to reveal that the genes of these SNPs may be related to neurological diseases. These results will lay the data foundation for precision medicine.
Prediction of 8-state protein secondary structures by 1D-Inception and BD-LSTM
Authors: Ratul Aminur Rab , Turcotte Marcel , Mozaffari M. Hamed , Lee WonSook
Published: December 2019

Protein secondary structure is crucial to create an information bridge between the primary structure and the tertiary (3D) structure. Precise prediction of 8-state protein secondary structure (PSS) significantly utilized in the structural and functional analysis of proteins in bioinformatics. In this recent period, deep learning techniques have been applied in this research area and raise the Q8 accuracy remarkably. Nevertheless, from a theoretical standpoint, there still lots of room for improvement, specifically in 8-state (Q8) protein secondary structure prediction. In this paper, we presented two deep learning architecture, namely 1D-Inception and BD-LSTM, to improve the performance of 8-classes PSS prediction. The input of these two architectures is a carefully constructed feature matrix from the sequence features and profile features of the proteins. Firstly, 1D-Inception is a Deep convolutional neural network-based approach that was inspired by the InceptionV3 model and containing three inception modules. Secondly, BD-LSTM is a recurrent neural network model which including bidirectional LSTM layers. Our proposed 1D-Inception method achieved 76.65%, 71.18%, 76.86%, and 74.07% Q8 accuracy respectively on benchmark CullPdb6133, CB513, CASP10, and CASP11 datasets. Moreover, BD-LSTM acquired 74.71%, 69.49%, 74.07%, and 72.37% state-8 accuracy after evaluated on CullPdb6133, CB513, CASP10, and CASP11 datasets, respectively. Both these architectures enable the efficient processing of local and global interdependencies between amino acids to make an accurate prediction of each class is very beneficial in the deep neural network. To the best of our knowledge, experiment results of the 1D-Inception model demonstrate that it outperformed all the state-of-art methods on the benchmark CullPdb6133, CB513, and CASP10 datasets.
The dengue virus non-structural protein 1 (NS1) use the scavenger receptor B1 as cell receptor in human hepatic and mosquito cells
Authors: Alcalá Ana C. , Maravillas José L. , Meza David , Ramirez Octavio T. , Ludert Juan E. , Palomares Laura A.
Published: December 2019

Dengue is the most common virus disease transmitted to humans by mosquitoes. The dengue virus NS1 is a multifunctional protein that form part of replication complexes. In addition, NS1 is also secreted, as a hexamer, to the extracellular milieu. Circulating NS1 has been associated with dengue pathogenesis by several different mechanisms. Cell binding and internalization of soluble NS1 result in the disruption of tight junctions and in down regulation of the innate immune response. In this work, we report that the HDL scavenger receptor B1 (SRB1) in human hepatic cells, and a scavenger receptor B1-like in mosquito C6/36 cells act as cell surface binding receptor for dengue virus NS1. The presence of the SRB1 on the plasma membrane of C6/36 cells, as well as in Huh-7 cells, was demonstrated by confocal microcopy. Internalization of NS1 can be efficiently blocked by anti-SRB1 antibodies and previous incubation of the cells with HDL significantly reduces NS1 internalization. In addition, the transient expression of SRB1 in Vero cells, which lack the receptor, renders these cells susceptible to NS1 entry. Direct interaction between soluble NS1 and the SRB1 in Huh7 and C6/36 cells was demonstrated in vivo by proximity ligation assays an in vitro by surface plasmon resonance. Finally, data is presented indicating that the SRB1 also act as cell receptor for zika virus NS1. These results demonstrate that dengue virus NS1, abona fidelipoprotein, usurps the HDL receptor for cell entry and offers explanations for the altered serum lipoprotein homeostasis observed in dengue patients.
Bacterial Major Vault Protein homologs shed new light on origins of the enigmatic organelle
Authors: Sokolskyi Tymofii H.
Published: December 2019

Vaults are large cone-shaped and highly conservative ribonucleoprotein complexes present in the cells of most major eukaryote clades. However, despite their wide distribution, their functions and evolutionary dynamics still remain enigmatic. Several minor functions in modulating signaling cascades and multidrug resistance phenotypes were previously discovered for eukaryotic vaults, yet nothing is known about bacterial homologs of the major vault protein (MVP), a protein that comprises the entirety of vault external surface. Using gene and protein BLAST searches in NCBI and UniProt databases we identified a number of bacterial species in prokaryotic orders Myxococcales, Cytophagales and Oscillatoriales with >50% identity to eukaryotic MVP sequences. Interestingly, all of these species are characterized by one common feature – gliding type of motility. Secondary structures of the identified proteins were predicted using RAPTORX web service and aligned via jFATCAT-flexible algorithm in the RCSB PDB Java Structure Alignment tool to elucidate structural identity. Coiled coil domain at the MVP C-terminus of all studied bacterial species resembled TolA protein ofEscherichia coliby both structure and sequence. We also showed that MVP sequences from chemotrophic bacteria Myxococcales and Cytophagales contain a domain homologous to eukaryotic band-7 domain, unlike cyanobacterial and eukaryotic major vault proteins. As expected, maximum-likelihood phylogenetic trees for MVP sequences separate studied taxa into two clades – first clade contains Oscillatoriales (Cyanobacteria) and Eukaryotes and the second one contains chemotrophic bacteria. In addition, binding prediction via RAPTORX showed great multiplicity GMP and CMP nucleoside monophosphate binding pockets in Myxococcales and Cytophagales MVP, unlike eukaryotic and cyanobacterial proteins which had much lower affinity to these substrates.

Due to high similarity of eukaryotic and cyanobacterial MVP sequences and a pattern of its phylogenetic distribution, we can speculate that the most likely scenario for vault appearance in eukaryotes is horizontal gene transfer from cyanobacteria. Presence of GMP and CMP binding pockets in MVP could also point to a function in depleting cytosolic nucleotide concentration which would be beneficial, for instance, during a viral infection. Further research is necessary to uncover potential functions of this enigmatic protein in bacteria and to determine its evolutionary patterns. In addition, a correlation between MVP presence and gliding motility in bacteria could also lead to elucidating selective pressures on the early evolution of this protein.
How can trading stamp promotions entice customers?
Authors: Teng Weichen
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Although trading stamps were popular in the USA and are still popular in some countries, few studies have investigated why customers are willing to participate in the promotional campaign despite the inconvenience of accumulating and storing stamps. The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors influencing customer participation in trading stamp campaigns.

Design/methodology/approach

Through an extensive literature review, a research model was proposed and its validity evaluated through structural equation modeling. An empirical investigation using a questionnaire survey was conducted among Taiwanese consumers.

Findings

The functional value of premiums and the enjoyment value of a campaign will directly entice a customer to participate, whereas a customer’s purchase intention will be enhanced due to the functional and emotional values of the premiums, social influence of the campaign and motivation to help others obtain premiums through gift-giving. However, the perceived effort to accumulate stamps will inhibit a customer from participating.

Research limitations/implications

The possibility of sampling bias may limit the applicability of the findings.

Practical implications

Effective trading stamp campaigns can be implemented by the careful design of premiums to emphasize their functional and emotional values and by emphasizing enjoyment and social values of the campaign.

Originality/value

This study aims to pioneer the application of the consumption value model in discussing trading stamp campaigns to fill the gap in marketing research. Another goal is to help retailers design successful campaigns.
Financial conflict resolution model in BOT contracts using bargaining game theory
Authors: Bayat Morteza , Khanzadi Mostafa , Nasirzadeh Farnad , Chavoshian Ali
Published: December 2019

Purpose

This study aims to determine the optimal value of concession period length in combination with capital structure in build–operate–transfer (BOT) contracts, based on direct negotiation procurement and considering the conflicting financial interests of different parties involved in the project.

Design/methodology/approach

The financial model of a BOT project is developed considering all the influencing factors. Then, fuzzy set theory is used to take into account the existing risks and uncertainties. Bilateral bargaining game based on alternating-offers protocol is applied between the government and the sponsor to divide project financial benefit considering the lender’s requirements. Finally, concession period and equity level will be determined simultaneously according to the sponsor’s and government’s share of project financial benefit and the lender’s requirements.

Findings

The proposed model is implemented on a real case study, and a fair and efficient agreement on concession period length and capital structure is achieved between the government and the sponsor considering the lender’s requirements. It is revealed that being the first proposer in the bargaining process will affect the concession period length; however, it will not affect the equity level. Moreover, it is shown that considering income tax as a part of government’s financial benefit increases the length of concession period.

Research limitations/implications

The presented model concentrates on direct negotiation procurement in BOT projects where the sponsor and government bargain on dividing financial benefits of project. It is assumed that the product/service price is determined before according to market analysis or users’ affordability. All the revenue of project during concession period is assumed to belong to the sponsor.

Practical implications

The proposed model provides a practical tool to aid BOT participants to reach a fair and efficient agreement on concession period and capital structure. This could prevent failing or prolonging the negotiation and costly renegotiation.

Originality/value

By investigation of previous studies, it is revealed that none of them can determine the optimal value of concession period length and capital structure simultaneously considering the BOT negotiation process and different financial interests of parties involved in the project. The proposed model presents a new approach to determine the financial variables considering the conflicting interests of involved parties. The other novelty aspects of the presented model are as follows: introducing a new approach for calculating the sponsor and the government’s share of project financial benefit that will affect the determination of the concession period length and considering the effect of existing risks and uncertainties on final agreement between the involved parties using fuzzy set theory.