bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cerebrospinal fluid Lyme multiplex assay results are not diagnostic in horses with neuroborreliosis
Authors: Johnson Amy L. , Johnstone Laura K. , Stefanovski Darko
Published: February 2018

Background

The accuracy of the Lyme multiplex assay for the diagnosis of neuroborreliosis in horses is unknown.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To describe Lyme multiplex results in horses with a postmortem diagnosis of neuroborreliosis. The hypothesis was that paired serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) results and a CSF : serum ratio would allow differentiation of horses with neuroborreliosis from those with other neurologic diseases.

Animals

Ninety horses that had neurologic examinations, serum and CSF Lyme multiplex analyses, and postmortem examination of the nervous system performed.

Methods

Retrospective study. Data collected included signalment, ante‐ and postmortem diagnoses, and serum and CSF Lyme multiplex results. The CSF : serum ratio was calculated by dividing CSF median fluorescent intensity (MFI) by serum MFI for each result.

Results

Ten horses had a final diagnosis of neuroborreliosis, 70 were diagnosed with other neurologic diseases, and 10 had no neurologic disease. Not all horses with neuroborreliosis had positive results: 4/10 had at least 1 positive serum result, 5/10 had at least 1 positive CSF result, and 3/10 had at least 1 CSF result 4‐fold higher than the corresponding serum result. Results were similar for the 70 horses with other neurologic diseases: 53% had at least 1 positive serum result, 50% had at least 1 positive CSF result, and 16% had at least 1 CSF result 4‐fold higher than the corresponding serum result.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Positive Lyme multiplex results were common in horses with neurologic diseases and did not adequately differentiate horses with neuroborreliosis from horses with other disorders.
Assessment of the pharmacological interactions between the nematodicidal fenbendazole and the flukicidal triclabendazole: In vitro studies with bovine liver microsomes and slices
Authors: Viviani P. , Lifschitz A. L. , Maté M. L. , García J. P. , Lanusse C. E. , Virkel G. L.
Published: February 2018

Parasitic diseases have a significant impact on livestock production. Nematodicidal drugs, such as fenbendazole (FBZ) or its oxidized metabolite oxfendazole (OFZ), can be used along with the trematodicidal triclabendazole (TCBZ), to broaden the spectrum of anthelmintic activity. However, co‐exposure to these compounds could lead to drug–drug (D‐D) interactions and eventually alter the clinical profile of each active principle. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of such interactions by means of two in vitro models, namely bovine liver microsomal fractions and bovine precision‐cut liver slices (PCLSs). To this end, an in vitro assessment involving incubation of FBZ and TCBZ or a combination of FBZ and TCBZ was carried out. Results with microsomal fractions showed a 78.4% reduction (p = .002) in the rate of OFZ production upon co‐incubation, whereas the sulfoxide metabolite of TCBZ (TCBZSO) exhibited a decreasing tendency. With PCLS, OFZ accumulation in the incubation medium increased 1.8‐fold upon co‐incubation, whereas TCBZSO accumulation decreased by 28%. The accumulation of FBZ and OFZ in the liver tissue increased upon 2‐hr co‐incubation, from 2.1 ± 1.5 to 18.2 ± 6.1 (p = .0009) and from 0.4 ± 0.1 to 1.3 ± 0.3 nmol (p = .0005), respectively. These results confirm the presence of D‐D interactions between FBZ and TCBZ. Further studies are needed to determine the extent of involvement of drug‐metabolizing enzymes and membrane transporters in interactions between compounds largely used in livestock production systems.
Low molecular weight heparin does not increase bleeding and mortality post‐endoscopic variceal band ligation in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Bianchini Marcello , Cavani Giulia , Bonaccorso Ambra , Turco Laura , Vizzutti Francesco , Sartini Alessandro , Gitto Stefano , Merighi Alberto , Banchelli Federico , Villa Erica , Schepis Filippo
Published: February 2018

Background & Aims

Anticoagulants are commonly indicated in cirrhotic patients due to high rate of (pro)thrombotic conditions. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is safe in patients with esophageal varices. However, the safety of LMWH is unknown in patients undergoing prophylactic endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL). To define the 4‐week risk of bleeding and death after prophylactic EVL in cirrhotic patients continuously treated with LMWH.

Methods

All EVLs performed at a tertiary Italian Center from 2009 to 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients treated with LMWH were classified as on‐LMWH; the remaining as no‐LMWH. Endoscopic characteristics at first and index EVL (that preceding an endoscopy either showing a bleeding episode or the absence of further treatable varices) and clinical events within 4 weeks from the procedures were recorded.

Results and Conclusions

Five hundred fifty‐three EVLs were performed in 265 patients (in 215 as a primary prophylaxis): 169 EVLs in 80 on‐LMWH and 384 in 185 no‐LMWH (4.9 ± 1.1 vs 4.8 ± 1.0 bands/session, respectively; P = .796). Six patients bled (2.2%) without between‐groups difference (3.8% on‐LMWH vs 1.6% no‐LMWH, Log‐rank P = .291). Large varices with red marks (100% vs 51.4%, P = .032), number of bands (5.6 ± 0.5 vs 4.6 ± 1.2, P = .004), underlying portal vein thrombosis (66.7% vs 23.6%, P = .033), and creatinine (2.2 ± 2.7 vs 1.0 ± 0.8 mg/dL, P = .001) at index EVL were significantly different between bleeders and non‐bleeders. Six patients died within 4‐week from index EVL, without between‐groups difference (2.5% on‐LMWH vs 2.2% no‐LMWH, Log‐rank P = .863). LMWH does not increase the risk of post‐procedural bleeding and does not affect survival of cirrhotic patients undergoing prophylactic EVL.
Identification and characterization of acetyltransferase‐type toxin‐antitoxin locus in Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Qian Hongliang , Yao Qingqing , Tai Cui , Deng Zixin , Gan Jianhua , Ou Hong‐Yu
Published: February 2018

A type II toxin‐antitoxin (TA) system, in which the toxin contains a Gcn5‐related N‐acetyltransferase (GNAT) domain, has been characterized recently. GNAT toxin acetylates aminoacyl‐tRNA and blocks protein translation. It is abolished by the cognate antitoxin that contains the ribbon‐helix‐helix (RHH) domain. Here, we present an experimental demonstration of the interaction of the GNAT‐RHH complex with TA promoter DNA. First, the GNAT‐RHH TA locus kacAT was found in Klebsiella pneumoniae HS11286, a strain resistant to multiple antibiotics. Overexpression of KacT halted cell growth and resulted in persister cell formation. The crystal structure also indicated that KacT is a typical acetyltransferase toxin. Co‐expression of KacA neutralized KacT toxicity. Expression of the bicistronic kacAT locus was up‐regulated during antibiotic stress. Finally, KacT and KacA formed a heterohexamer that interacted with promoter DNA, resulting in negative autoregulation of kacAT transcription. The N‐terminus region of KacA accounted for specific binding to the palindromic sequence on the operator DNA, whereas its C‐terminus region was essential for the inactivation of the GNAT toxin. These results provide an important insight into the regulation of the GNAT‐RHH family TA system.
2H‐fractionations during the biosynthesis of carbohydrates and lipids imprint a metabolic signal on the δ2H values of plant organic compounds
Authors: Cormier Marc‐André , Werner Roland A. , Sauer Peter E. , Gröcke Darren R. , Leuenberger Markus C. , Wieloch Thomas , Schleucher Jürgen , Kahmen Ansgar
Published: February 2018

Hydrogen (H) isotope ratio (δ2H) analyses of plant organic compounds have been applied to assess ecohydrological processes in the environment despite a large part of the δ2H variability observed in plant compounds not being fully elucidated.

We present a conceptual biochemical model based on empirical H isotope data that we generated in two complementary experiments that clarifies a large part of the unexplained variability in the δ2H values of plant organic compounds.

The experiments demonstrate that information recorded in the δ2H values of plant organic compounds goes beyond hydrological signals and can also contain important information on the carbon and energy metabolism of plants. Our model explains where 2H‐fractionations occur in the biosynthesis of plant organic compounds and how these 2H‐fractionations are tightly coupled to a plant's carbon and energy metabolism. Our model also provides a mechanistic basis to introduce H isotopes in plant organic compounds as a new metabolic proxy for the carbon and energy metabolism of plants and ecosystems.

Such a new metabolic proxy has the potential to be applied in a broad range of disciplines, including plant and ecosystem physiology, biogeochemistry and palaeoecology.
Mutational studies of the Aux/IAA proteins in Physcomitrella reveal novel insights into their function
Authors: Tao Sibo , Estelle Mark
Published: February 2018

The plant hormone auxin regulates many aspects of plant growth and development. Auxin signaling involves hormone perception by the TRANSPORT INHIBITOR RESPONSE/AUXIN F‐BOX (TIR1/AFB)–Aux/IAA co‐receptor system, and the subsequent degradation of the Aux/IAA transcriptional repressors by the ubiquitin proteasome pathway. This leads to the activation of downstream gene expression and diverse physiological responses. Here, we investigate how the structural elements in the Aux/IAAs determine their function in Auxin perception and transcriptional repression.

We took advantage of the facile genetics of the moss Physcomitrella patens to determine the activity of wild‐type and mutant PpIAA1a proteins in a Δaux/iaa null background. In this way, Aux/IAA function was characterized at the molecular and physiological levels without the interference of genetic redundancy.

We identified and characterized degron variants in Aux/IAAs that affect their stability and Auxin response. We also demonstrated that neither the Aux/IAA EAR motif nor Aux/IAA oligomerization is essential for the repressive function of Aux/IAA.

Our study demonstrates how key elements within the Aux/IAA proteins fine tune stability and repressor activity, as well as the long‐term developmental outcome.
Exploring and exploiting the boundaries of host specificity using the cereal rust and mildew models
Authors: Dracatos Peter Michael , Haghdoust Rouja , Singh Davinder , Park Robert Fraser
Published: February 2018

Individual plants encounter a vast number of microbes including bacteria, viruses, fungi and oomycetes through their growth cycle, yet few of these pathogens are able to infect them. Plant species have diverged over millions of years, co‐evolving with few specific pathogens. The host boundaries of most pathogen species can be clearly defined. In general, the greater the genetic divergence from the preferred host, the less likely that pathogen would be able to infect that plant species. Co‐evolution and divergence also occur within pathogen species, leading to highly specialized subspecies with narrow host ranges. For example, cereal rust and mildew pathogens (Puccinia and Blumeria spp.) display high host specificity as a result of ongoing co‐evolution with a narrow range of grass species. In rare cases, however, some plant species are in a transition from host to nonhost or are intermediate hosts (near nonhost). Barley was reported as a useful model for genetic and molecular studies of nonhost resistance due to rare susceptibility to numerous heterologous rust and mildew fungi. This review evaluates host specificity in numerous Puccinia/Blumeria–cereal pathosystems and discusses various approaches for transferring nonhost resistance (NHR) genes between crop species to reduce the impact of important diseases in food production.
Gibberellin antagonizes jasmonate‐induced defense against Meloidogyne graminicola in rice
Authors: Yimer Henok Zemene , Nahar Kamrun , Kyndt Tina , Haeck Ashley , Van Meulebroek Lieven , Vanhaecke Lynn , Demeestere Kristof , Höfte Monica , Gheysen Godelieve
Published: February 2018

Gibberellin (GA) regulates various plant growth and developmental processes, but its role in pathogen attack, and especially nematode–plant interactions, still remains to be elucidated.

An in‐depth characterization of the role of GA in nematode infection was conducted using mutant lines of rice, chemical inhibitors, and phytohormone measurements.

Our results showed that GA influences rice–Meloidogyne graminicola interactions in a concentration‐dependent manner. Foliar spray of plants with a low concentration of gibberellic acid enhanced nematode infection. Biosynthetic and signaling mutants confirmed the importance of gibberellin for rice susceptibility to M. graminicola infection. Our study also demonstrates that GA signaling suppresses jasmonate (JA)‐mediated defense against M. graminicola, and likewise the JA‐induced defense against M. graminicola requires SLENDER RICE1 (SLR1)‐mediated repression of the GA pathway. In contrast to observations from other plant–pathogen interactions, GA plays a dominant role over JA in determining susceptibility to M. graminicola in rice. This GA‐induced nematode susceptibility was largely independent of auxin biosynthesis, but relied on auxin transport.

In conclusion, we showed that GA–JA antagonistic crosstalk is at the forefront of the interaction between rice and M. graminicola, and SLR1 plays a central role in the JA‐mediated defense response in rice against this nematode.
Diversification by host switching and dispersal shaped the diversity and distribution of avian malaria parasites in Amazonia
Authors: Fecchio Alan , Bell Jeffrey Andrew , Collins Michael David , Farias Izeni Pires , Trisos Christopher Harry , Tobias Joseph Andrew , Tkach Vasyl Volodymyr , Weckstein Jason David , Ricklefs Robert Eric , Batalha‐Filho Henrique
Published: February 2018

Understanding how pathogens and parasites diversify through time and space is fundamental to predicting emerging infectious diseases. Here, we use biogeographic, coevolutionary and phylogenetic analyses to describe the origin, diversity, and distribution of avian malaria parasites in the most diverse avifauna on Earth. We first performed phylogenetic analyses using the mitochondrial cytochrome b (cyt b) gene to determine relationships among parasite lineages. Then, we estimated divergence times and reconstructed ancestral areas to uncover how landscape evolution has shaped the diversification of Parahaemoproteus and Plasmodium in Amazonia. Finally, we assessed the coevolutionary patterns of diversification in this host–parasite system to determine how coevolution may have influenced the contemporary diversity of avian malaria parasites and their distribution among Amazonian birds.

Biogeographic analysis of 324 haemosporidian parasite lineages recovered from 4178 individual birds provided strong evidence that these parasites readily disperse across major Amazonian rivers and this has occurred with increasing frequency over the last five million years. We also recovered many duplication events within areas of endemism in Amazonia. Cophylogenetic analyses of these blood parasites and their avian hosts support a diversification history dominated by host switching. The ability of avian malaria parasites to disperse geographically and shift among avian hosts has played a major role in their radiation and has shaped the current distribution and diversity of these parasites across Amazonia.
Class III peroxidases in cellulose deficient cultured maize cells during cell wall remodeling
Authors: Martínez‐Rubio Romina , Acebes José Luis , Encina Antonio , Kärkönen Anna
Published: February 2018

Maize (Zea mays L.) suspension‐cultured cells habituated to a cellulose biosynthesis inhibitor 2,6‐dichlorobenzonitrile (DCB) have a modified cell wall, in which the reduction in the cellulose content is compensated by a network of highly cross‐linked feruloylated arabinoxylans and the deposition of lignin‐like polymers. For both arabinoxylan cross‐linking and lignin polymerization, class III peroxidases (POXs) have been demonstrated to have a prominent role. For the first time, a comparative study of POX activity and isoforms in control and cellulose‐impaired cells has been addressed, also taking into account their cellular distribution in different compartments. Proteins from the spent medium (SM), soluble cellular (SC), ionically (ICW) and covalently bound cell wall protein fractions were assayed for total and specific peroxidase activity by using coniferyl and sinapyl alcohol and ferulic acid as substrates. The isoPOX profile was obtained by isoelectric focusing. POX activity was higher in DCB‐habituated than in non‐habituated cells in all protein fractions at all cell culture stages. For all substrates assayed, SC and ICW fractions showed higher activity at the early log growth phase than at the late log phase. However, the highest POX activity in the spent medium was found at the late log phase. According to the isoPOX profiles, the highest diversity of isoPOXs was detected in the ICW and SM protein fractions. The latter fraction contained isoPOXs with higher activity in DCB‐habituated cells. Some of the isoPOXs detected could be involved in cross‐linking of arabinoxylans and in the lignin‐like polymer formation in DCB‐habituated cells.
The concept of sin in the Hebrew Bible
Authors: Lam Joseph
Published: February 2018

This essay offers an introduction to the study of sin as a concept in the Hebrew Bible, first via an overview of past scholarship, then through a discussion of four salient issues in sin's definition based on the biblical texts. Previous approaches can be broadly classified by their emphasis on the terminology of sin in Biblical Hebrew, the theology of sin in the Hebrew Bible, or the history of sin as a concept in ancient Israel, with or without a narrower thematic focus. Since the Hebrew Bible is a composite text preserving a variety of views, a proper approach to the biblical notion of sin needs to account for these competing views. This variety in the biblical discourse on sin can be illustrated with respect to at least four issues: the basis of sin's definition; the nature of sin as an act, a state of guilt, or a propensity toward evil; the role of intentionality in sin; and the interplay between individual and corporate notions of sin. The multiplicity of views on these issues preserved in the Hebrew Bible reflects the conceptual diversity that existed in ancient Israel.
Three‐dimensional photography for the evaluation of facial profiles in obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Lin Shih‐Wei , Sutherland Kate , Liao Yu‐Fang , Cistulli Peter A. , Chuang Li‐Pang , Chou Yu‐Ting , Chang Chih‐Hao , Lee Chung‐Shu , Li Li‐Fu , Chen Ning‐Hung
Published: February 2018

Background and objective

Craniofacial structure is an important determinant of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) syndrome risk. Three‐dimensional stereo‐photogrammetry (3dMD) is a novel technique which allows quantification of the craniofacial profile. This study compares the facial images of OSA patients captured by 3dMD to three‐dimensional computed tomography (3‐D CT) and two‐dimensional (2‐D) digital photogrammetry. Measurements were correlated with indices of OSA severity.

Methods

Thirty‐eight patients diagnosed with OSA were included, and digital photogrammetry, 3dMD and 3‐D CT were performed. Distances, areas, angles and volumes from the images captured by three methods were analysed.

Results

Almost all measurements captured by 3dMD showed strong agreement with 3‐D CT measurements. Results from 2‐D digital photogrammetry showed poor agreement with 3‐D CT. Mandibular width, neck perimeter size and maxillary volume measurements correlated well with the severity of OSA using all three imaging methods. Mandibular length, facial width, binocular width, neck width, cranial base triangle area, cranial base area 1 and middle cranial fossa volume correlated well with OSA severity using 3dMD and 3‐D CT, but not with 2‐D digital photogrammetry.

Conclusion

3dMD provided accurate craniofacial measurements of OSA patients, which were highly concordant with those obtained by CT, while avoiding the radiation associated with CT.
Re‐Examining the Role of Structural Change and Nonlinearities in a Phillips Curve Model for South Africa
Authors: Nell Kevin S.
Published: February 2018

Although studies generally find evidence of a Phillips curve‐type relationship in South Africa, uncertainty remains about the relevance of the model over a relatively long sample period, and whether conventional output gap measures are suitable proxies for demand pressure. This paper reviews research which shows that the Phillips curve model prevails over an extended sample, provided that the benchmark specifications include major structural changes in the balance‐of‐payments and labour market, and account for shifts in the root causes of inflation. When this is done, a linear specification with an output gap in levels correctly predicts the non‐trended inflation pattern over the period 1971(Q1)–1984(Q4), whereas a piecewise concave curve with an output gap in growth rates accurately forecasts the decelerating inflation pattern during 1986(Q1)–2001(Q2). A novel feature of the concave model is that it remains statistically robust and structurally stable when it is estimated until 2015(Q4). The concave model imparts a disinflationary bias, which suggests that monetary policy should be more expansionary during downswing phases of the business cycle and neutral during upswing phases. The analysis also considers how the shape of the Phillips curve might change if the balance‐of‐payments constraint on demand is relaxed in a significant way.
Clinical application research through reflection, interpretation and new understanding – a hermeneutic design
Authors: Lindwall Lillemor , Råholm Maj‐Britt , Lohne Vibeke , Caspari Synnøve , Heggestad Anne Kari Tolo , Sæteren Berit , Slettebø Åshild , Høy Bente , Nåden Dagfinn
Published: February 2018

The implementation of theoretical knowledge in clinical practice and the implementation of good clinical practice into theory have been of interest in caring science for the last 30 years. The aim of this article was to elaborate and discuss a methodology named clinical application research. The method is grounded in a hermeneutical design inspired by Gadamer's philosophy. The methodology, clinical application research, has been used in a research project A life in dignity and experiences from the researchers forms the bases for the elaboration and discussion. The project was performed in collaboration with residents, family caregivers and healthcare providers at six nursing homes in Scandinavia. The material for this article is based on the previous research, that is the results from 10 different articles showing the meaning of dignity and indignity in daily life in nursing homes. Data were generated from 56 individual interviews and 18 focus‐group interviews with a total of 40 staff members with five to eight participants at every interview session. By reflection, interpretation and new understanding our results provide knowledge about dignity and how to preserve dignity for older people in an appropriate ethical way. The methodology was relevant for the research project A life in dignity and relevant to caring practice in nursing homes as it opens new possibilities and new ways of thinking when performing dignified care to older people.
Endothelial extracellular vesicles modulate the macrophage phenotype: Potential implications in atherosclerosis
Authors: He S. , Wu C. , Xiao J. , Li D. , Sun Z. , Li M.
Published: February 2018

Endothelial cells (ECs) and macrophages engage in tight and specific interactions that play critical roles in cardiovascular homeostasis and the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are circular membrane fragments released from the endosomal compartment as exosomes or shed from the surfaces of the membranes of most cell types. Increasing evidence indicates that EVs play a pivotal role in cell‐to‐cell communication. However, the contribution of EVs, as determine by oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL)‐exposed and/or Kruppel‐like factor 2 (KLF2)‐transduced ECs in the interaction between vascular ECs and monocytes/macrophages, which is a key event in atherosclerotic plaque development, has remained elusive. This study demonstrates the characteristic impact of EVs from ox‐LDL‐treated and/or KLF2‐transduced ECs on the monocyte/macrophage phenotype in vitro and in vivo.Q‐PCR showed that both the atherosclerosis inducer ox‐LDL and atheroprotective factor KLF2 regulated inflammation‐associated microRNA‐155 (miR‐155) expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Moreover, coculture, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry revealed that miR‐155 was enriched in ox‐LDL‐induced ECs‐EVs and subsequently transferred to human monocytic THP1 cells, in which these vesicles enhance monocyte activation by shifting the monocytes/macrophages balance from anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages towards proinflammatory M1 macrophages; EVs from KLF2‐expressing ECs suppressed monocyte activation by enhancing immunomodulatory responses and diminishing proinflammatory responses, which indicate the potent anti‐inflammatory activities of these cells. Furthermore, oil red staining showed that atherosclerotic lesions were reduced in mice that received EVs from KLF2‐transduced ECs with decreased proinflammatory M1 macrophages and increased anti‐inflammatory M2 macrophages, and this effect is at least partly due to the decreased expression of inflammation‐associated miR‐155, confirming our in vitro findings. In summary, this study provides novel insights into the pathophysiological effects of altered EV secretion and/or microRNA content and their influence on modulating monocyte activation depending on the environment surrounding EVs‐releasing ECs.
Validity of activity trackers, smartphones, and phone applications to measure steps in various walking conditions
Authors: Höchsmann C. , Knaier R. , Eymann J. , Hintermann J. , Infanger D. , Schmidt‐Trucksäss A.
Published: February 2018

To examine the validity of popular smartphone accelerometer applications and a consumer activity wristband compared to a widely used research accelerometer while assessing the impact of the phone's position on the accuracy of step detection. Twenty volunteers from 2 different age groups (Group A: 18‐25 years, n = 10; Group B 45‐70 years, n = 10) were equipped with 3 iPhone SE smartphones (placed in pants pocket, shoulder bag, and backpack), 1 Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge (pants pocket), 1 Garmin Vivofit 2 wristband, and 2 ActiGraph wGTX+ devices (worn at wrist and hip) while walking on a treadmill (1.6, 3.2, 4.8, and 6.0 km/h) and completing a walking course. All smartphones included 6 accelerometer applications. Video observation was used as gold standard. Validity was evaluated by comparing each device with the gold standard using mean absolute percentage errors (MAPE). The MAPE of the iPhone SE (all positions) and the Garmin Vivofit was small (<3) for treadmill walking ≥3.2 km/h and for free walking. The Samsung Galaxy and hip‐worn ActiGraph showed small MAPE only for treadmill walking at 4.8 and 6.0 km/h and for free walking. The wrist‐worn ActiGraph showed high MAPE (17‐47) for all walking conditions. The iPhone SE and the Garmin Vivofit 2 are accurate tools for step counting in different age groups and during various walking conditions, even during slow walking. The phone's position does not impact the accuracy of step detection, which substantially improves the versatility for physical activity assessment in clinical and research settings.
Legislators Off Their Leash: Cognitive Shirking and Impending Retirement in the U.S. House*
Authors: Romano Michael K.
Published: February 2018

Objective

This article investigates whether public officials exhibit “cognitive shirking” prior to announcing retirement by changing the way they communicate during their final term.

Method

I analyze monthly speeches made by members of the U.S. House between the 105th and 109th terms, and collect data on psychological indicators found to indicate changes in cognition. A mixed effect logistic regression examines whether these indicators increase the probability of retirement before the end of the term.

Results

The probability of retirement is amplified by increases in the level of cognitive inconsistency they display in public speeches.

Conclusion

Public officials, when deciding whether to retire from politics, display patterns of shifting priorities before and after making their retirement announcement. This suggests that representatives’ justifications for policy choices go through significant reorganization as the electoral connection is severed.
Protecting water and wastewater utilities from cyber‐physical threats
Authors: Clark Robert M. , Hakim Simon , Panguluri Srinivas
Published: February 2018

Recent events have highlighted the need to address cybersecurity threats to systems supporting critical infrastructure and federal information systems which are evolving and growing. These threats have become ubiquitous in the United States, and throughout the world. Many information and communications technology (ICT) devices and other components are interdependent so that disruption of one component may have a negative, cascading effect on others. In the United States, the Federal role in cyber‐security has been debated for more than a decade but creating a policy is complicated because in the United States, State and local governments are the major institutions responsible for providing services to their populations. It is important that critical infrastructure such as Publically Owned Treatment Works (POTWs) and Public Water Systems (PWSs) adopt suitable countermeasures to prevent or minimise the consequences of cyber‐attacks. This paper discusses both technological and procedural techniques that can be used to protect against cyber‐threats.
Molecular characterization of unusual bovine rotavirus A strains having high genetic relatedness with human rotavirus: evidence for zooanthroponotic transmission
Authors: Kumar N. , Malik Y. S. , Sharma K. , Dhama K. , Ghosh S. , Bányai K. , Kobayashi N. , Singh R. K.
Published: February 2018

We report here the genomic characterization of two rare rotavirus A (RVAs) G1P[11] and G9P[X] strains detected in cattle calves from two different geographical locations in India during routine rotavirus surveillance. These strains possessed unusual G types (VP7 gene) on a bovine/artiodactyl genotype constellation, G1‐P[11]‐I2‐Rx‐Cx‐Mx‐Ax‐N2‐T6‐E2‐H3 (HR‐B91) and G9‐P[X]‐I2‐Rx‐Cx‐Mx‐Ax‐N2‐T6‐E2‐H3 (WB‐H2). This is the first report on molecular characterization of G9 in cattle, and second report on G1 in cattle. The VP7 gene of HR‐B91 occupied lineage IIc within G1 while that of WB‐H2 occupied IIIb within G9 genotype. The latter was found to be very diverse from other RVA strains of G9 genotype, and this may emerge as a new genotype in due course. The study provides evidence of zooanthroponotic transmission of human G1 and G9 RVA genes to calves. Of note, the G9 genotype was found to serve as the ancestral genotype for G1. Phylogenetic analysis of remaining gene segments revealed close relatedness to artiodactyl or artiodactyl‐like human RVA strains. The findings of this study highlight the potential role of interspecies transmission and reassortment events in generating the rare rotavirus strains.
Effect of exercise intensity on circulating microparticles in men and women
Authors: Shill Daniel D. , Lansford Kasey A. , Hempel Hannah K. , Call Jarrod A. , Murrow Jonathan R. , Jenkins Nathan T.
Published: February 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

What is the effect of exercise intensity on circulating microparticle populations in young, healthy men and women?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Acute, moderate‐intensity continuous exercise and high‐intensity interval exercise altered distinct microparticle populations during and after exercise in addition to a sex‐specific response in CD62E+ microparticles. The microparticles studied contribute to cardiovascular disease progression, regulate vascular function and facilitate new blood vessel formation. Thus, characterizing the impact of intensity on exercise‐induced microparticle responses advances our understanding of potential mechanisms underlying the beneficial vascular adaptations to exercise.

Circulating microparticles (MPs) are biological vectors of information within the cardiovascular system that elicit both deleterious and beneficial effects on the vasculature. Acute exercise has been shown to alter MP concentrations, probably through a shear stress‐dependent mechanism, but evidence is limited. Therefore, we investigated the effect of exercise intensity on plasma levels of CD34+ and CD62E+ MPs in young, healthy men and women. Blood samples were collected before, during and after two energy‐matched bouts of acute treadmill exercise: interval exercise (10 × 1 min intervals at ∼95% of maximal oxygen uptake ) and continuous exercise (65% ). Continuous exercise, but not interval exercise, reduced CD62E+ MP concentrations in men and women by 18% immediately after exercise (from 914.5 ± 589.6 to 754.4 ± 390.5 MPs μl−1; P < 0.05), suggesting that mechanisms underlying exercise‐induced CD62E+ MP dynamics are intensity dependent. Furthermore, continuous exercise reduced CD62E+ MPs in women by 19% (from 1030.6 ± 688.1 to 829.9 ± 435.4 MPs μl−1; P < 0.05), but not in men. Although interval exercise did not alter CD62E+ MPs per se, the concentrations after interval exercise were higher than those observed after continuous exercise (P < 0.05). Conversely, CD34+ MPs did not fluctuate in response to short‐duration acute continuous or interval exercise in men or women. Our results suggest that exercise‐induced MP alterations are intensity dependent and sex specific and impact MP populations differentially.
Correction: Evaluation of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Trouessart) and D. farinae Hughes (Acari: Pyroglyphidae) sensitivity in patients with allergic rhinitis: a comparative study
Authors: ZEYTUN ERHAN , DOĞAN SALİH , ÜNVER EDHEM , ÖZÇİÇEK FATİH
Published: February 2018

The authors are sorry that they made a mistake in spelling the family name of the first author on line 4 of page 206 in Zeytun et al. (2018): EYTUN should be ZEYTUN.
Numerical study on the fluid dynamical aspects of atomic layer deposition process
Authors: Peltonen Petteri , Vuorinen Ville , Marin Giovanni , Karttunen Antti J. , Karppinen Maarit
Published: February 2018

Computational fluid dynamics investigations on the mixing process of gases inside an atomic layer deposition (ALD) reactor are carried out. A test case involving a real ALD reactor geometry is investigated under nonreacting, incompressible flow assumption. The relatively low Reynolds number (Re) of the test reactor, often being in the laminar regime, advocates the usage of scale-resolving simulations. The authors investigate mixing of two precursors in two different injection configurations for 40 < Re < 2400. The feasibility of the approach is shown and discussed. The results illustrate how both Reynolds number and injection configurations influence the precursor distribution in the ALD reactor. The authors also carry out a set of experiments in the same ALD reactor and discuss them in light of the simulations.
Comparing Global Positioning System and Global Navigation Satellite System Measures of Team-Sport Movements
Authors: Jackson Benjamin M. , Polglaze Ted , Dawson Brian , King Trish , Peeling Peter
Published: February 2018

Purpose: To compare data from conventional global positioning system (GPS-) and new global navigation satellite system (GNSS-) enabled tracking devices and to examine the interunit reliability of GNSS devices. Methods: Interdevice differences between 10-Hz GPS and GNSS devices were examined during laps (n = 40) of a simulated game circuit and during elite hockey matches (n = 21); GNSS interunit reliability was also examined during laps of the simulated game circuit. Differences in distance values and measures in 3 velocity categories (low <3 m·s−1; moderate 3–5 m·s−1; and high >5 m·s−1) and acceleration/deceleration counts (>1.46 and <−1.46 m·s−2) were examined using 1-way analysis of variance. Interunit GNSS reliability was examined using the coefficient of variation (CV) and intraclass correlation coefficient. Results: Interdevice differences (P < .05) were found for measures of peak deceleration, low-speed distance, percentage of total distance at low speed, and deceleration count during the simulated game circuit and for all measures except total distance and low-speed distance during hockey matches. Interunit (GNSS) differences (P < .05) were not found. The coefficient of variation was below 5% for total distance, average and peak speeds and distance and percentage of total distance of low-speed running. The GNSS devices had a lower horizontal dilution of precision score than GPS devices in all conditions. Conclusions: These findings suggest that GNSS devices may be more sensitive than GPS devices in quantifying the physical demands of team-sport movements, but further study into the accuracy of GNSS devices is required.
The ancestral retinoic acid receptor was a low-affinity sensor triggering neuronal differentiation
Authors: Handberg-Thorsager Mette , Gutierrez-Mazariegos Juliana , Arold Stefan T. , Kumar Nadendla Eswar , Bertucci Paola Y. , Germain Pierre , Tomançak Pavel , Pierzchalski Keely , Jones Jace W. , Albalat Ricard , Kane Maureen A. , Bourguet William , Laudet Vincent , Arendt Detlev , Schubert Michael
Published: February 2018

Vitamin A–dependent intercellular signaling was originally regulated by a low-affinity sensor and acted in neural development.
Evidence for Inhibition of Topoisomerase 1A by Gold(III) Macrocycles and Chelates Targeting Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Gupta Rashmi , Rodrigues Felix Carolina , Akerman Matthew P. , Akerman Kate J. , Slabber Cathryn A. , Wang Wenjie , Adams Jessie , Shaw Lindsey N. , Tse-Dinh Yuk-Ching , Munro Orde Q. , Rohde Kyle H.
Published: February 2018

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
and the fast-growing species
Mycobacterium abscessus
are two important human pathogens causing persistent pulmonary infections that are difficult to cure and require long treatment times. The emergence of drug-resistant
M. tuberculosis
strains and the high level of intrinsic resistance of
M. abscessus
call for novel drug scaffolds that effectively target both pathogens. In this study, we evaluated the activity of bis(pyrrolide-imine) gold(III) macrocycles and chelates, originally designed as DNA intercalators capable of targeting human topoisomerase types I and II (Topo1 and Topo2), against
M. abscessus
and
M. tuberculosis
. We identified a total of 5 noncytotoxic compounds active against both mycobacterial pathogens under replicating
in vitro
conditions. We chose one of these hits, compound 14, for detailed analysis due to its potent bactericidal mode of inhibition and scalable synthesis. The clinical relevance of this compound was demonstrated by its ability to inhibit a panel of diverse
M. tuberculosis
and
M. abscessus
clinical isolates. Prompted by previous data suggesting that compound 14 may target topoisomerase/gyrase enzymes, we demonstrated that it lacked cross-resistance with fluoroquinolones, which target the
M. tuberculosis
gyrase.
In vitro
enzyme assays confirmed the potent activity of compound 14 against bacterial topoisomerase 1A (Topo1) enzymes but not gyrase. Novel scaffolds like compound 14 with potent, selective bactericidal activity against
M. tuberculosis
and
M. abscessus
that act on validated but underexploited targets like Topo1 represent a promising starting point for the development of novel therapeutics for infections by pathogenic mycobacteria.
Depot Subcutaneous Injection with Chalcone CH8-Loaded Poly(Lactic-Co-Glycolic Acid) Microspheres as a Single-Dose Treatment of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis
Authors: Sousa-Batista Ariane de Jesus , Pacienza-Lima Wallace , Arruda-Costa Natalia , Falcão Camila Alves Bandeira , Ré Maria Ines , Rossi-Bergmann Bartira
Published: February 2018

Conventional chemotherapy of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is based on multiple parenteral or intralesional injections with systemically toxic drugs. Aiming at a single-dose localized therapy, biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles loaded with 7.8% of an antileishmanial nitrochalcone named CH8 (CH8/PLGA) were constructed to promote sustained subcutaneous release.
In vitro
, murine macrophages avidly phagocytosed CH8/PLGA smaller than 6 μm without triggering oxidative mechanisms. Upon 48 h of incubation, both CH8 and CH8/PLGA were 40 times more toxic to intracellular
Leishmania amazonensis
than to macrophages.
In vivo
, BALB/c were given one or three subcutaneous injections in the infected ear with 1.2 mg/kg of CH8 in free or CH8/PLGA forms, whereas controls received three CH8-equivalent doses of naked PLGA microparticles or meglumine antimoniate (Glucantime; Sanofi-Aventis). Although a single injection with CH8/PLGA reduced the parasite loads by 91%, triple injections with free CH8 or CH8/PLGA caused 80 and 97% reductions, respectively, in relation to saline controls. Meglumine antimoniate treatment was the least effective (only 36% reduction) and the most toxic, as indicated by elevated alanine aminotransferase serum levels. Together, these findings show that CH8/PLGA microparticles can be effectively and safely used for single-dose treatment of CL.
Complete Genome Sequence of a
Fusarium graminearum
Double-Stranded RNA Virus in a Newly Proposed Family,
Alternaviridae
Authors: He Hao , Chen Xiaoguang , Li Pengfei , Qiu Dewen , Guo Lihua
Published: February 2018

We describe here a double-stranded RNA mycovirus, termed
Fusarium graminearum alternavirus 1
(FgAV1/AH11), from the isolate AH11 of the phytopathogenic fungus
F. graminearum
. Phylogenetic analysis showed that FgAV1/AH11 belongs to a newly proposed family,
Alternaviridae
. This is the first report of a mycovirus in the family
Alternaviridae
that infects
F. graminearum
.
Plasmid Partitioning by Human Tumor Viruses
Authors: Chiu Ya-Fang , Sugden Bill
Published: February 2018

The human tumor viruses that replicate as plasmids (we use the term plasmid to avoid any confusion in the term episome, which was coined to mean DNA elements that occur both extrachromosomally and as integrated forms during their life cycles, as does phage lambda) share many features in their DNA synthesis. We know less about their mechanisms of maintenance in proliferating cells, but these mechanisms must underlie their partitioning to daughter cells. One amazing implication of how these viruses are thought to maintain themselves is that while host chromosomes commit themselves to partitioning in mitosis, these tumor viruses would commit themselves to partitioning before mitosis and probably in S phase shortly after their synthesis.
Sociocultural and health system factors associated with mortality among febrile inpatients in Tanzania: a prospective social biopsy cohort study
Authors: Snavely Michael E , Maze Michael J , Muiruri Charles , Ngowi Lilian , Mboya Flora , Beamesderfer Julia , Makupa Glory F , Mwingwa Anthon G , Lwezaula Bingileki F , Mmbaga Blandina T , Maro Venance P , Crump John A , Ostermann Jan , Rubach Matthew P
Published: February 2018

Introduction

Communicable diseases are the leading causes of death in Tanzania despite the existence of effective treatment tools. We aimed to assess the sociocultural and health system factors associated with mortality from febrile illness in northern Tanzania.

Methods

We interviewed febrile inpatients to determine prevalence of barriers in seeking or receiving care and grouped these barriers using the Three Delays model (delays at home, in transport and at healthcare facilities). We assessed 6-week mortality and, after matching on age, gender and severity of illness, measured the association between delays and mortality using conditional logistic regression.

Results

We enrolled 475 children, of whom 18 (3.8%) died, and 260 adults, of whom 34 (13.0%) died. For children, home delays were not associated with mortality. Among adults, a delay in care-seeking due to not recognising severe symptoms was associated with mortality (OR: 3.01; 95% CI 1.24 to 7.32). For transport delays, taking >1 hour to reach a facility increased odds of death in children (OR: 3.27; 95% CI 1.11 to 9.66) and adults (OR: 3.03; 95% CI 1.32 to 6.99). For health system delays, each additional facility visited was associated with mortality for children (OR: 1.59; 95% CI 1.06 to 2.38) and adults (OR: 2.00; 95% CI 1.17 to 3.41), as was spending >4 days between the first facility visit and reaching tertiary care (OR: 4.39; 95% CI 1.49 to 12.93).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that delays at home, in transport and in accessing tertiary care are risk factors for mortality from febrile illness in northern Tanzania. Interventions that may reduce mortality include community education regarding severe symptoms, expanding transportation infrastructure and streamlining referrals to tertiary care for the sickest patients.
Understanding the gender gap in antibiotic prescribing: a cross-sectional analysis of English primary care
Authors: Smith David R M , Dolk F Christiaan K , Smieszek Timo , Robotham Julie V , Pouwels Koen B
Published: February 2018

Objectives

To explore the causes of the gender gap in antibiotic prescribing, and to determine whether women are more likely than men to receive an antibiotic prescription per consultation.

Design

Cross-sectional analysis of routinely collected electronic medical records from The Health Improvement Network (THIN).

Setting

English primary care.

Participants

Patients who consulted general practices registered with THIN between 2013 and 2015.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Total antibiotic prescribing was measured in children (<19 years), adults (19–64 years) and the elderly (65+ years). For 12 common conditions, the number of adult consultations was measured, and the relative risk (RR) of being prescribed antibiotics when consulting as female or with comorbidity was estimated.

Results

Among 4.57 million antibiotic prescriptions observed in the data, female patients received 67% more prescriptions than male patients, and 43% more when excluding antibiotics used to treat urinary tract infection (UTI). These gaps were more pronounced in adult women (99% more prescriptions than men; 69% more when excluding UTI) than in children (9%; 0%) or the elderly (67%; 38%). Among adults, women accounted for 64% of consultations (62% among patients with comorbidity), but were not substantially more likely than men to receive an antibiotic prescription when consulting with common conditions such as cough (RR 1.01; 95% CI 1.00 to 1.02), sore throat (RR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.01) and lower respiratory tract infection (RR 1.00, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.01). Exceptions were skin conditions: women were less likely to be prescribed antibiotics when consulting with acne (RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.66 to 0.69) or impetigo (RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.81 to 0.88).

Conclusions

The gender gap in antibiotic prescribing can largely be explained by consultation behaviour. Although in most cases adult men and women are equally likely to be prescribed an antibiotic when consulting primary care, it is unclear whether or not they are equally indicated for antibiotic therapy.