bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehending international important Ramsar wetland documents using latent semantic topic model in kernel space
Authors: Lin Ping , Jiang Shanchao , Li Du , Zou Zhiyong , Chen Yongming
Published: February 2019

The kernel‐based statistical semantic topic model is introduced for comprehending three species of internationally important Ramsar wetland documents describing the Lashi Lake wetland in the Yunnan Province, the Yancheng wetland in the Jiangsu Province, and the Zoige wetland in the Sichuan Province of China. Latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) features are used to represent the semantic components of wetland documents. Kernel principal component analysis (KPCA) maps the topic components to the kernel space to attain the low dimensional principal components. Support vector machines (SVMs) are used to comprehend the semantic distribution of distinct wetland documents in the kernel space. The LDA+KPCA+SVM algorithm reaches 77.0% training and 75.9% test accuracy and 0.902 training and 0.840 test mean average precision scores in the application of comprehending the wetland documents, respectively. The performance of the proposed kernel‐based model is superior to the traditional models of LDA+SVM and LDA+PCA+SVM.
Bcl‐2 is a prognostic marker and its silencing inhibits recurrence in ameloblastomas
Authors: Kim Jue Young , Kim Jinsun , Bazarsad Shadavlonjid , Cha In‐Ho , Cho Sung‐Won , Kim Jin
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Ameloblastomas are the most common odontogenic epithelial tumors with high recurrence rate. The aim of this study was to identify apoptosis‐related genes with recurrence of ameloblastomas and to evaluate its feasibility as a prognostic marker and as a target molecule preventing from recurrence.

Materials and Methods

Public microarray data were analyzed. To evaluate their expression in ameloblastoma patients, immunohistochemical staining was performed in 89 human ameloblastoma tissues. Quantitative PCR was performed by use of ameloblastoma cell line (AM‐1). Fluorescence activated cell sorting analysis and western blotting were conducted following transfection with siRNA. Further, AM‐1 cells were implanted in the renal subcapsular layer of immunodeficient mice.

Results

Microarray data analysis revealed that osteoprotegerin (OPG) and B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2) were the two most upregulated genes in ameloblastoma. Only Bcl‐2 expression was significantly (p = 0.020) associated with recurrence in conservative treatment group (n = 17) among 89 patients. Silencing of Bcl‐2 increased apoptosis in AM‐1 cells in vitro and inhibited tumor nodule formation of AM‐1 cells in vivo.

Conclusion

These results suggest that Bcl‐2 expression is a useful biomarker to predict recurrence of ameloblastomas, and as a therapeutic target molecule to prevent recurrence of ameloblastoma.
Do traditional fermented foods protect against infantile atopic dermatitis
Authors: Celik Velat , Beken Burcin , Yazicioglu Mehtap , Ozdemir Pinar Gokmirza , Sut Necdet
Published: February 2019

Background

Environmental and dietary factors during pregnancy may affect development of infantile atopic dermatitis (AD). This study analyzed whether maternal consumption of selected Turkish fermented foods (FF) and other factors during pregnancy affect the development of AD during the first 2 years of life.

Methods

Eighty‐four children with physician‐diagnosed AD (aged between 2 and 24 months) and mothers, and 56 similarly aged, healthy children and mothers were studied. Physician‐administered questionnaires retrospectively surveyed maternal consumption of FF during pregnancy. The intake frequency of 8 selected Turkish FF was classified as either (1) daily or (2) less than daily. Other possible demographic and environmental risk factors were also analyzed.

Results

Daily maternal consumption of yogurt, fermented olive, and cheese in the control group was significantly higher than the AD group (P < 0.001, P = 0.017, and P = 0.011, respectively). Exposure to environmental tobacco smoking (ETS) was more common in the AD group than the control group (P = 0.025). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, maternal ETS exposure during pregnancy was associated with increased risk of infantile AD, and daily consumption of yogurt was associated with a reduced risk (odds ratio [OR]: 2.60, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11‐6.1, and OR: 0.22, CI: 0.09‐0.54, respectively). The diversity of consumed FF during pregnancy was found to have a protective effect against infantile AD (OR: 0.27, CI: 0.14‐0.53).

Conclusions

Daily maternal intake of yogurt and diversity of consumed Turkish FF during pregnancy may reduce the risk of AD. Maternal tobacco smoke exposure is associated with increased risk of infantile AD.
Sublingual immunotherapy alters salivary IgA and systemic immune mediators in timothy allergic children
Authors: Huoman Johanna , Papapavlou Georgia , Pap Anna , Alm Johan , Nilsson Lennart J. , Jenmalm Maria C.
Published: February 2019

Background

Immunomodulatory effects of sublingual immunotherapy on systemic and mucosal mediators in allergic children are largely unexplored. The aim of this study was to investigate allergy‐related cytokine and chemokine levels, as well as IgA‐responses upon a 3‐year treatment with timothy grass pollen sublingual immunotherapy in children with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis.

Methods

From children included in the GRAZAX® Asthma Prevention study, blood and saliva samples were analyzed at inclusion, after 3 years of treatment, and 2 years after treatment ending. By means of Luminex and ELISA methodologies, allergy‐related cytokines and chemokines were measured in plasma samples and allergen‐stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cell supernatants. Furthermore, studies of total, secretory, and Phl p 1–specific salivary IgA antibodies were performed using the same methods.

Results

GRAZAX®‐treated children exhibited significantly higher levels of Phl p 1–specific salivary IgA and serum IgG4, along with significantly lower skin prick test positivity, after 3 years of treatment and 2 years after treatment cessation. Additionally, plasma levels of the Th1‐associated chemokines CXCL10 and CXCL11 were significantly higher in treated than untreated children at these time points. Timothy‐induced ratios of IL‐5/IL‐13 over IFN‐γ were significantly decreased after 3 years with active treatment, as were symptoms of allergic rhinitis in terms of both severity and visual analogue scale scores. However, no consistent correlations were found between the clinical outcomes and immunologic parameters.

Conclusion

Phleum pratense sublingual immunotherapy in grass pollen allergic children modulates the immune response in the oral mucosa as well as systemically—by increasing Th1‐responses, decreasing Th2‐responses, and inducing immunoregulatory responses—all signs of tolerance induction.
Dissection of coleoptile elongation in japonica rice under submergence through integrated genome‐wide association mapping and transcriptional analyses
Authors: Nghi Khac Nhu , Tondelli Alessandro , Valè Giampiero , Tagliani Andrea , Marè Caterina , Perata Pierdomenico , Pucciariello Chiara
Published: February 2019

Rice is unique among cereals for its ability to germinate not only when submerged but also under anoxic conditions. Rice germination under submergence or anoxia is characterized by a longer coleoptile and delay in radicle emergence. A panel of temperate and tropical japonica rice accessions showing a large variability in coleoptile length was used to investigate genetic factors involved in this developmental process. The ability of the Khao Hlan On rice landrace to vigorously germinate when submerged has been previously associated with the presence of the trehalose 6 phosphate phosphatase 7 (TPP7) gene. In this study, we found that, in the presence of TPP7, polymorphisms and transcriptional variations of the gene in coleoptile tissue were not related to differences in the final coleoptile length under submergence. In order to find new chromosomal regions associated with the different ability of rice to elongate the coleoptile under submergence, we used genome‐wide association study analysis on a panel of 273 japonica rice accessions. We discovered 11 significant marker–trait associations and identified candidate genes potentially involved in coleoptile length. Candidate gene expression analyses indicated that japonica rice genotypes possess complex genetic elements that control final coleoptile length under low oxygen.
First report of successful transplantation of a pediatric donor liver graft after hypothermic machine perfusion
Authors: Werner Maureen J. M. , van Leeuwen Otto B. , de Jong Iris E. M. , Bodewes Frank A. J. A. , Fujiyoshi Masato , Luhker Olaf C. , Scheenstra René , de Vries Yvonne , de Kleine Ruben H. J. , Porte Robert J.
Published: February 2019

One of the main limiting factors in pediatric liver transplantation is donor availability. For adults, DCD liver grafts are increasingly used to expand the donor pool. To improve outcome after DCD liver transplantation, ex situ machine perfusion is used as an alternative organ preservation strategy, with the supplemental value of providing oxygen to the graft during preservation. We here report the first successful transplantation of a pediatric DCD liver graft after hypothermic oxygenated machine perfusion. The full‐size liver graft was derived from a 13‐year‐old, female DCD donor and was end‐ischemic pretreated with dual hypothermic oxygenated machine perfusion. Arterial and portal pressures were set at 18 and 4 mm Hg, slightly lower than protocolized settings for adult livers. During 2 hours of machine perfusion, portal and arterial flows increased from 100 to 210 mL/min and 30 to 63 mL/min, respectively. The pretreated liver graft was implanted in a 16‐year‐old girl with progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 2. Postoperative AST, ALT, and prothrombin time normalized within a week. The recipient quickly recovered and was discharged from the hospital after 18 days. One year after transplantation, she is in excellent condition with a completely normal liver function and histology. This case is the first report of successful transplantation of a pediatric DCD liver graft after hypothermic oxygenated machine perfusion and illustrates the potential role of ex situ machine perfusion in expanding the donor pool and improving outcome after pediatric liver transplantation.
Determinants of Public Administrators' Use of Performance Information: Evidence from Local Governments in Florida
Authors: Dimitrijevska‐Markoski Tamara , French P. Edward
Published: February 2019

Performance management has been a focus of scholars and practitioners for more than 25 years, yet the use of performance information has not greatly expanded as a result of this attention. Acknowledging that performance measurement is not an end in itself but rather a means to enhance focus on results and value, this article evaluates the determinants of the use of performance information by local government administrators. An online survey was administered to local government employees involved in the 2015–16 Florida Benchmarking Consortium. Analysis of the data demonstrates that institutionalization of performance measurement has the strongest statistically significant positive association with the use of performance information, followed by the design adequacy of the performance measurement system.
Cannot see the random forest for the decision trees: selecting predictive models for restoration ecology
Authors: Barnard David M. , Germino Matthew J. , Pilliod David S. , Arkle Robert S. , Applestein Cara , Davidson Bill E. , Fisk Matthew R.
Published: February 2019

Improving predictions of restoration outcomes is increasingly important to resource managers for accountability and adaptive management, yet there is limited guidance for selecting a predictive model from the multitude available. The goal of this article was to identify an optimal predictive framework for restoration ecology using 11 modeling frameworks (including machine learning, inferential, and ensemble approaches) and three data groups (field data, geographic data [GIS], and a combination thereof). We test this approach with a dataset from a large postfire sagebrush reestablishment project in the Great Basin, U.S.A. Predictive power varied among models and data groups, ranging from 58% to 79% accuracy. Finer‐scale field data generally had the greatest predictive power, although GIS data were present in the best models overall. An ensemble prediction computed from the 10 models parameterized to field data was well above average for accuracy but was outperformed by others that prioritized model parsimony by selecting predictor variables based on rankings of their importance among all candidate models. The variation in predictive power among a suite of modeling frameworks underscores the importance of a model comparison and refinement approach that evaluates multiple models and data groups, and selects variables based on their contribution to predictive power. The enhanced understanding of factors influencing restoration outcomes accomplished by this framework has the potential to aid the adaptive management process for improving future restoration outcomes.
Do trade flows respond to nudges? Evidence from the WTO’s Trade Policy Review Mechanism
Authors: Kuenzel David J.
Published: February 2019

Relatively little is known about the economic effects of WTO members’ communications outside of official negotiations and dispute proceedings. This paper considers whether interactions between members through the Trade Policy Review Mechanism, the WTO’s prime transparency institution, lead to subsequent changes in bilateral trade flows. Trade policy concern submissions are more likely to lead to positive trade responses when (i) the receiving country is less concerned about terms‐of‐trade losses, (ii) the submitter is more willing to engage in WTO disputes with the reviewed member to challenge controversial trade policies, and (iii) the submitting country challenges trade policies in the nonchemical manufacturing sector. Nudges through the TPR process are not successful in raising agricultural trade.
Oil seepage and carbonate formation: A case study from the southern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Smrzka Daniel , Zwicker Jennifer , Misch David , Walkner Christoph , Gier Susanne , Monien Patrick , Bohrmann Gerhard , Peckmann Jörn
Published: February 2019

Oil seeps from the southern Gulf of Mexico can be regarded as natural laboratories where the effect of crude oil seepage on chemosynthesis‐based communities and carbonate precipitation can be studied. During R/V Meteor cruise 114 the seep sites UNAM (Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México) Ridge, Mictlan Knoll and Tsanyao Yang Knoll (Bay of Campeche, southern Gulf of Mexico) were investigated and sampled for authigenic carbonate deposits containing large amounts of liquid oil and solid asphalt. The δ13C values of individual carbonate phases including: (i) microcrystalline matrix aragonite and calcite; (ii) grey, cryptocrystalline to microcrystalline aragonite; and (iii) clear, fibrous aragonite cement, are between −30‰ and −20‰, agreeing with oil as the primary carbon source. Raman spectra reveal that residual heavy oils from all sites are immature and most likely originate from the same reservoir. Geochemical batch modelling using the software code PHREEQC demonstrates how sulphate‐driven oxidation of oil‐derived low‐molecular to high‐molecular weight hydrocarbons affects carbonate saturation state, and shows that the oxidation state of carbon in hydrocarbon compounds and oxidation rates of hydrocarbons control carbonate saturation and precipitation at oil seeps. Phase‐specific trace and rare earth element contents of microcrystalline aragonite and calcite, grey cryptocrystalline aragonite and clear aragonite were determined, revealing enrichment in light rare earth elements for grey aragonite. By comparing trace element patterns of carbonates with those of associated oils, it becomes apparent that liquid hydrocarbons constitute an additional source of trace metals to sedimentary pore waters. This work not only demonstrates that the microbial degradation of oil at seeps may result in the precipitation of carbonate minerals, it also elucidates that trace metal inventories of seep carbonates archive diagnostic elemental patterns, which can be assigned to the presence of heavy hydrocarbons in interstitial pore waters.
Molecular model linking Th2 polarized M2 tumour‐associated macrophages with deaminase‐mediated cancer progression mutation signatures
Authors: Mamrot Jared , Balachandran Siddharth , Steele Edward J. , Lindley Robyn A.
Published: February 2019

A new and diverse range of somatic mutation signatures are observed in late‐stage cancers, but the underlying reasons are not fully understood. We advance a “combinatorial association model” for deaminase binding domain (DBD) diversification to explain the generation of previously observed cancer‐progression associated mutation signatures. We also propose that changes in the polarization of tumour‐associated macrophages (TAMs) are accompanied by the expression of deaminases with a new and diverse range of DBDs, and thus accounting for the generation of new somatic mutation signatures. The mechanism proposed is molecularly reminiscent of combinatorial association of heavy (H) and light (L) protein chains following V(D)J recombination of immunoglobulin molecules (and similarly for protein chains in heterodimers α/β and γ/δ of V(D)Js of T Cell Receptors) required for pathogen antigen recognition by B cells and T cells, respectively. We also discuss whether extracellular vesicles (EVs) emanating from tumour enhancing M2‐polarized macrophages represent a likely source of the de novo deaminase DBDs. We conclude that M2‐polarized macrophages extruding EVs loaded with deaminase proteins or deaminase‐specific transcription/translation regulatory factors and like information may directly trigger deaminase diversification within cancer cells, and thus account for the many new somatic mutation signatures that are indicative of cancer progression. This hypothesis now has a plausible evidentiary base, and it is worth direct testing in future investigations. A long‐term objective would be to identify molecular biomarkers predicting cancer progression (or metastatic disease) and to support the development of new drug targets before metastatic pathways are activated.
HLA‐B*40:221, an HLA‐B*40 variant, detected in Taiwanese individuals
Authors: Yang Kuo‐Liang , Lin Py‐Yu
Published: February 2019

One nucleotide substitution at residue 865 of HLA‐B*40:01:01 results in a novel allele, HLA‐B*40:221.
Chemical cross‐linking of xenopericardial biomeshes: A bottom‐up study of structural and functional correlations
Authors: Grebenik Ekaterina A. , Istranov Leonid P. , Istranova Elena V. , Churbanov Semyon N. , Shavkuta Boris S. , Dmitriev Ruslan I. , Veryasova Nadezhda N. , Kotova Svetlana L. , Kurkov Alexander V. , Shekhter Anatoly B. , Timashev Peter S.
Published: February 2019

Decellularized bovine pericardium (DBP)‐based biomeshes are the gold standard in reconstructive surgery. In order to prolong their stability after the transplantation, various chemical cross‐linking strategies are employed. However, structural and functional properties of the biomeshes differ in dependence on the cross‐linker used. Here, we performed a bottom‐up study of structural and functional alterations of DBP‐based biomeshes following cross‐linking with hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDC), ethylene glycol diglycidyl ether (EGDE), 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide (EDC) and genipin. The in vitro cytotoxicity tests supported their clinical applicability. Their structural differences (eg roughness, fibre thickness, pore morphology) were evaluated using the two‐photon confocal laser scanning, atomic force, scanning electron and polarized light microscopies. HMDC and EDC samples appeared to be the roughest. Complex mechanical trials indicated the tendency to reduced Young’s Modulus and mechanical anisotropy values of DBP upon cross‐linking. The lowest mechanical anisotropy was found in EDC and genipin sample groups. In vitro collagenase susceptibility was the highest for EDC samples and the lowest for EGDE samples. The comparative analysis of the results allowed us to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of each cross‐linker in relation to a particular clinical application.
Perceptions of the Prospective Teachers Regarding the Opinion Development Technique
Authors: Duman Burcu
Published: February 2019

The opinion development technique is one of the learner centered teaching methods. In the study, it has been aimed at identifying the metaphorical perceptions of the prospective teachers about the opinion development technique. The case study design has been used in the study. 77 prospective teachers have taken place in the study group. The metaphors of the prospective teachers about the opinion development technique have been identified by a semi-structured questionnaire. The data has been analyzed through content analysis. 65 valid metaphors have been produced by the prospective teachers. Chameleon is the most repeated metaphor. Tree, sea, fingers of one hand, democracy, plane and war has followed it. Metaphors have been classed in 8 categories. These categories are dissimilarity (f: 26), change (f: 19), variety (f: 11), interaction (f: 6), integrity and comprehensiveness (f: 5), eternity (f: 4), freedom (f: 4) and sharing (f: 2). According to the results of the study, perceptions of the prospective teachers about the opinion development technique are positive. The study results suggest that opinion development technique can be effective to develop 21st century skills such as invention, flexibility and adaptation and critical thinking. Opinion development technique can be used at the teacher training institutions more widely because it contributes various skills to develop especially the 21st century skills. Studies can be carried out to identify the metaphorical perceptions of the prospective teachers about various methods and techniques.
The Relationship between Body Composition and Jumping Performance of Volleyball Players
Authors: Acar Hakan , Eler Nebahat
Published: February 2019

Body composition and the skill of jumping are very important for high physical performance in volleyball. The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between body composition and jumping performance in female volleyball players aged 14-17. 74 female volleyball players volunteered to participate in the study. The height, body weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, body muscle mass and trunk fat percentage measurements were taken and the vertical jump and standing long jump tests were applied. The data were evaluated with the SPSS 16 statistical software program, the Pearson Correlation test was done for the statistical analysis and the significance level was determined as p< 0.05. The athletes’ vertical jump and standing long jump values were found statistically to have a negative relationship with height, body fat percentage, body muscle mass and body fat percentage, whereas a positive relationship was found between vertical jump and standing long jump values and body weight (p< 0.05). As a result, it was determined that body composition in volleyball players affects jumping performance.
Effect of a 22-Week Strength- and Endurance-Based Physical Education Programme on Students’ Development
Authors: Senduran Fatih
Published: February 2019

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of a physical education(PE) programme targeting strength and endurance development, in which the main activities were rope climbing, pull-ups, an obstacle course, 3000-m running and kickboxing, implemented over a 22-week period and for 260 minutes per week, on the physical development of students. A total of 477 students aged 19-21 (M= 20.1 ± 0.8) took part in the study, during which an intensive strength- and endurance-based physical training programme was carried out with the students by experienced physical training instructors over a period of 22 weeks. In order to assess the students’ physical development, weight measurement, hand grip, bent arm hang, push-up, sit-up, agility and 20-m shuttle run tests were carried out respectively as pretest and posttest. The tests were completed in two days. The obtained data were examined with paired samples t-test. The varied strength- and endurance-based activities (kickboxing, crossing obstacles, etc.) carried out with a certain intensity and over a specific period by the students made a positive contribution to the development of their strength, endurance (Vo2 Max) and agility characteristics.
Facet joint degeneration adversely affects ultrasound imaging of the lumbar spine
Authors: Srinivasan Karthikeyan , Kuan Kok Hong , Mubarak Mona , Torregianni William , Whitty Robert
Published: February 2019

Aim: Ultrasound of neuraxis can be used to identify the best possible inter-spinous space to perform neuraxial block. The aim of this study was to assess the anatomical correlation between neuraxial ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).Material and method: Twenty-one patients who underwent MRI of the lumbar spine had ultrasound of lumbar neuraxis performed by an experienced operator. Each lumbar interspinous space was graded on ultrasound as good [posteriorcomplex (ligamentum flavum and duramater) and anterior complex (posterior longitudinal ligament) visible], intermediate (either anterior complex or posterior complex visible) or poor (both anterior complex and posterior complex not visible) in both the transverse median (TM) and paramedian sagittal oblique (PSO) plane. Pre-determined MRI parameters were measured by a radiologist blinded to sonographic findings at each inter-spinal level.Results: Seventy-eight lumbar interspinous spaces were evaluated. There was a significant association (p<0.004) between the facet joint degeneration on MRI and the poor ultrasound view in the transverse median (TM) group. The odds of obtaining a poor view in TM plane was 7 times higher (95% CI 1.7-28.9, p=0.007) in the presence of facet joint degeneration. None of the other variables had a significant association with a poor neuraxial view in the TM plane. Poor views in the parasagittal oblique (PSO) plane did not correlate with any of the variables measured on MRI.Conclusion: Facet joint degeneration is a major contributing factor to poor neuraxial ultrasound views in the TM plane.
Response variance prediction using transient statistical energy analysis
Authors: Langley Robin S. , Hawes David H. , Butlin Tore , Ishii Yuki
Published: February 2019

Statistical energy analysis (SEA) is a prominent method for predicting the high frequency response of complex structures under steady loading where the structure is split into subsystems and the subsystem energies are calculated. Since at high frequencies, the dynamic response of nominally identical structures can differ greatly, methods have been developed to predict both the mean and variance of the energy in the subsystems of a system across an ensemble of systems. SEA can be extended to predict the transient response of a system, either to shock or time-varying inputs and is known as transient SEA, although this formulation has so far only been interested in the mean response. In this paper, a method for predicting the variance of the transient response is derived by considering how an individual realisation can deviate from the mean. A matrix differential equation for the covariance of the subsystem energies is derived which is driven by terms representing the variability in the system. These variance terms are provided by assuming that the natural frequencies in each subsystem conform to the Gaussian orthogonal ensemble. The accuracy of the method is investigated both numerically and experimentally using systems involving coupled plates and its limitations are discussed.
Animal cultures matter for conservation
Authors: Brakes Philippa , Dall Sasha R. X. , Aplin Lucy M. , Bearhop Stuart , Carroll Emma L. , Ciucci Paolo , Fishlock Vicki , Ford John K. B. , Garland Ellen C. , Keith Sally A. , McGregor Peter K. , Mesnick Sarah L. , Noad Michael J. , di Sciara Giuseppe Notarbartolo , Robbins Martha M. , Simmonds Mark P. , Spina Fernando , Thornton Alex , Wade Paul R. , Whiting Martin J. , Williams James , Rendell Luke , Whitehead Hal , Whiten Andrew , Rutz Christian
Published: February 2019

Understanding the rich social lives of animals benefits international conservation efforts
Driving CAR T cell translation forward
Authors: Schultz Liora , Mackall Crystal
Published: February 2019

Successes in CAR T cell translation have propelled their commercial launch, but expanding the impact of cancer immunotherapies remains challenging.
Surface Layer of
Lactobacillus helveticus
MIMLh5 Promotes Endocytosis by Dendritic Cells
Authors: Taverniti Valentina , Marengo Mauro , Fuglsang Eva , Skovsted Helene Marie , Arioli Stefania , Mantegazza Giacomo , Gargari Giorgio , Iametti Stefania , Bonomi Francesco , Guglielmetti Simone , Frøkiær Hanne
Published: February 2019

Beneficial microbes may positively affect host physiology at various levels, e.g., by participating in immune system maturation and modulation, boosting defenses and dampening reactions, thus affecting the whole homeostasis. As a consequence, the use of probiotics is increasingly regarded as suitable for more extended applications for health maintenance, not only microbiota balancing. This implies a deep knowledge of the mechanisms and molecules involved in host-microbe interactions, for the final purpose of fine tuning the choice of a probiotic strain for a specific outcome. With this aim, studies targeted to the description of strain-related immunomodulatory effects and the identification of bacterial molecules responsible for specific responses are indispensable. This study provides new insights in the characterization of the food-origin probiotic bacterium
L. helveticus
MIMLh5 and its S-layer protein as a driver for the cross-talk with DCs.
Differential Effects of Breed and Nursing on Early-Life Colonic Microbiota and Immune Status as Revealed in a Cross-Fostering Piglet Model
Authors: Mu Chunlong , Bian Gaorui , Su Yong , Zhu Weiyun
Published: February 2019

Early-life gut microbiota and immune status are pivotal for postnatal growth. By using an interspecific cross-fostering piglet model, we find that change in nursing mother transiently reshapes preweaning colon microbiota and immune status, while breed shows persistent effects both pre- and postweaning. Piglets nursed by Meishan sows had lowerStreptococcus suiscounts and higher anti-inflammatory cytokine expression. These results highlight the significance of nursing mother in regulating early-life gut health.
Influence of Energy and Electron Availability on
In Vivo
Methane and Hydrogen Production by a Variant Molybdenum Nitrogenase
Authors: Zheng Yanning , Harwood Caroline S.
Published: February 2019

A variant form of Mo nitrogenase catalyzes the conversion of CO
2
and protons to the biofuels CH
4
and H
2
. A constant supply of electrons and ATP is needed to drive these reduction reactions. The bacterium
R. palustris
generates ATP from light and has a versatile metabolism that makes it ideal for manipulating electron availability intracellularly. We therefore explored its potential as a biocatalyst for CH
4
and H
2
production. We found that intracellular ADP had a major effect on biofuel production, more pronounced than the effect caused by ATP. This is probably due to inhibition of nitrogenase activity by ADP. In general, the amount of CH
4
produced by the variant nitrogenase
in vivo
was affected by electron availability much less than was the amount of H
2
produced. This study shows the nature of constraints on
in vivo
biofuel production by variant Mo nitrogenase.
A Lytic Polysaccharide Monooxygenase from a White-Rot Fungus Drives the Degradation of Lignin by a Versatile Peroxidase
Authors: Li Fei , Ma Fuying , Zhao Honglu , Zhang Shu , Wang Lei , Zhang Xiaoyu , Yu Hongbo
Published: February 2019

The enzymatic biodegradation of structural polysaccharides is affected by the degree of delignification of lignocellulose during the white-rot fungal decay process. The lignin matrix decreases accessibility to the substrates for LPMOs. H
2
O
2
has been studied as a cosubstrate for LPMOs, but the formation and utilization of H
2
O
2
in the reactions still represent an intriguing focus of current research. Lignin-degrading peroxidases and LPMOs usually coexist during fungal decay, and therefore, the relationship between H
2
O
2
-dependent lignin-degrading peroxidases and LPMOs should be considered during the wood decay process. The current study revealed that white-rot fungal LPMOs may be involved in the degradation of lignin through driving a versatile form of peroxidase activity
in vitro
and that H
2
O
2
generated by
Po
LPMO9A was preferentially used for lignin oxidation by lignin-degrading peroxidase (
Ps
VP). These findings reveal a potential relationship between LPMOs and lignin degradation, which will be of great significance for further understanding the contribution of LPMOs to the white-rot fungal decay process.
Recovery of Fungal Cells from Air Samples: a Tale of Loss and Gain
Authors: Mbareche Hamza , Veillette Marc , Teertstra Wieke , Kegel Willem , Bilodeau Guillaume J. , Wösten Han A. B. , Duchaine Caroline
Published: February 2019

This work shed light on a significant issue regarding the loss of fungal spores when recovered from air samples using liquid medium and centrifugation to concentrate air particles before DNA extraction. We provide proof that the loss affects the overall fungal diversity of aerosols and that some taxa are differentially more affected than others. Furthermore, a laboratory experiment confirmed the environmental results obtained during field sampling. The filtration protocol described in this work offers a better description of the fungal diversity of aerosols and should be used in fungal aerosol studies.
Antimicrobial Stewardship Opportunities in Patients with Bacteremia Not Identified by BioFire FilmArray
Authors: Ny P. , Ozaki A. , Pallares J. , Nieberg P. , Wong-Beringer A.
Published: February 2019

A subset of bacteremia cases are caused by organisms not detected by a rapid-diagnostics platform, BioFire blood culture identification (BCID), with unknown clinical characteristics and outcomes. Patients with ≥1 positive blood culture over a 15-month period were grouped by negative (NB-PC) versus positive (PB-PC) BioFire BCID results and compared with respect to demographics, infection characteristics, antibiotic therapy, and outcomes (length of hospital stay [LOS] and in-hospital mortality).
Microbial Community Succession and Nutrient Cycling Responses following Perturbations of Experimental Saltwater Aquaria
Authors: Bik Holly M. , Alexiev Alexandra , Aulakh Sabreen K. , Bharadwaj Lakshmi , Flanagan Jennifer , Haggerty John M. , Hird Sarah M. , Jospin Guillaume , Lang Jenna M. , Sauder Laura A. , Neufeld Josh D. , Shaver Andrew , Sethi Akshay , Eisen Jonathan A. , Coil David A.
Published: February 2019

Saltwater aquaria are living systems that support a complex biological community of fish, invertebrates, and microbes. The health and maintenance of saltwater tanks are pressing concerns for home hobbyists, zoos, and professionals in the aquarium trade; however, we do not yet understand the underlying microbial species interactions and community dynamics which contribute to tank setup and conditioning. This report provides a detailed view of ecological succession and changes in microbial community assemblages in two saltwater aquaria which were sampled over a 3-month period, from initial tank setup and conditioning with “live rocks” through subsequent tank cleanings and water replacement. Our results showed that microbial succession appeared to be consistent and replicable across both aquaria. However, changes in microbial communities did not always correlate with water chemistry measurements, and aquarium microbial communities appear to have shifted among multiple stable states without any obvious buildup of undesirable nitrogen compounds in the tank environment.
Genotypic and Phenotypic Diversity of Herpes Simplex Virus 2 within the Infected Neonatal Population
Authors: Akhtar Lisa N. , Bowen Christopher D. , Renner Daniel W. , Pandey Utsav , Della Fera Ashley N. , Kimberlin David W. , Prichard Mark N. , Whitley Richard J. , Weitzman Matthew D. , Szpara Moriah L.
Published: February 2019

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes invasive disease in half of infected neonates, resulting in significant mortality and permanent cognitive morbidity. The factors that contribute to invasive disease are not understood. This study revealed diversity among HSV isolates from infected neonates and detected the first associations between viral genetic variations and clinical disease manifestations. We found that viruses isolated from newborns with encephalitis showed enhanced spread in culture. These viruses contained protein-coding variations not found in viruses causing noninvasive disease. Many of these variations were found in proteins known to impact neurovirulence and viral spread between cells. This work advances our understanding of HSV diversity in the neonatal population and how it may impact disease outcome.
Atrial fibrillation among adults with heart failure in sub-Saharan Africa — prevalence, incidence and all-cause mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Agbor Valirie Ndip , Aminde Leopold Ndemnge , Tianyi Frank-Leonel , Mbanga Clarence Mvalo , Petnga Saint-Just N , Ditah Chobufo , Noubiap Jean Jacques
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Heart failure (HF) remains a major non-communicable disease in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) associated with high rates of readmission, mortality and loss of economic productivity as it affects mostly young and economically active adults. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a major determinant of mortality among patients with HF in SSA. Meanwhile, the use of anti-arrhythmic medications in the region remains unacceptably low. This review aims to evaluate the prevalence and incidence of AFib in adult patients with HF in SSA, and the all-cause mortality rate among patients with HF and AFib.

Methods and analysis

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Protocols 2015 statement was used to prepare this protocol. All eligible studies from database inception to December, 31 2018 in MEDLINE, Embase, Google Scholar, Web of science and Africa-specific databases (AFROLIB, African Index Medicus and African Journals Online) will be included without language restrictions. The process of study screening, selection, data extraction and assessment of risk of bias will be conducted independently by two reviewers. Disagreements will be arbitrated by a third reviewer. Study-specific estimates will be pooled using random-effect meta-analysis and summary measures obtained will be presented in forest plots. The χ2test on Cochrane’s Q and the I2statistics will be used to assess and quantify heterogeneity, respectively. The Egger’s test and funnel plots will be used to assess publication bias.

Ethics and dissemination

Since our review will be based on already published data, an ethical approval is not required. The findings of this review will be presented in conferences and peer-reviewed journals and shared on social media such as Researchgate, Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018087564.
Effectiveness and safety of nicotine patches combined with e-cigarettes (with and without nicotine) for smoking cessation: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Walker Natalie , Verbiest Marjolein , Kurdziel Tomasz , Laking George , Laugesen Murray , Parag Varsha , Bullen Chris
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Evidence indicates e-cigarettes can help people quit smoking; however, more confirmatory trials are needed. To date, no trials have evaluated the effectiveness and safety of combining nicotine patches with e-cigarettes (with and without nicotine) for smoking cessation.

Methods and analysis

This study is a pragmatic, three-arm, community-based, single-blind, randomised trial undertaken in New Zealand. Eligible participants are daily/non-daily smokers, aged ≥18 years, naive e-cigarette users and motivated to quit smoking in the next 2 weeks. Participants (n=1809), recruited using multi-media advertising, are randomised to 14 weeks of (1) 21 mg nicotine patches (n=201); (2) 21 mg nicotine patches+18 mg/mL nicotine e-cigarette (n=804); or (3) 21 mg nicotine patches+nicotine free e-cigarette (n=804). Participants receive weekly withdrawal-oriented behavioural support calls for 6 weeks post-randomisation. The primary outcome is self-reported biochemically verified continuous abstinence (CA) at 6 months post quit-date. The primary comparison is nicotine patch + nicotine e-cigarette versus nicotine patch + nicotine free e-cigarette, and the secondary comparison is nicotine patch versus nicotine patch +nicotine e-cigarette (90% power, p=0.05, to detect an absolute difference in 6 month CA rates of 8% and 15% respectively). Secondary outcomes, collected by phone interview at quit date, then 1, 3, 6 and 12 months post-quit date, include self-reported CA, 7 day point prevalence abstinence, cigarettes per day (if smoking, or when smoking for non-daily smokers), time to relapse (if returned to smoking), belief in ability to quit, use of other cessation support, side effects/serious adverse events, treatment compliance, seeking additional support around e-cigarette use, daily use of both e-cigarettes and cigarettes, use of treatment past 14 weeks, views on treatment and recommendation to others, weight and cost-per-quitter.

Ethics and dissemination

The Northern A Health and Disability Ethics Committee approved the trial. Findings will be disseminated through publication, conference/meeting presentations, and media.

Trial registration number

NCT02521662; Pre-results.
Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases and the Risk of Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery: A Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Huang Shih-Wei , Lin Che-Li , Lin Li-Fong , Huang Chi-Chang , Liou Tsan-Hon , Lin Hui-Wen
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Autoimmune connective tissue diseases (ACTDs) commonly involve the shoulder joint; however, clinical epidemiological studies investigating their association with tendons are scant. Rotator cuff (RC) tears can cause shoulder disability, and surgical intervention is usually required. The study investigated RC repair surgery risk in ACTD patients. The effect of anti-inflammatory medication on RC repair surgery risk was also investigated.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study with a 7-year longitudinal follow-up period. Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, sicca syndrome, dermatomyositis and polymyositis diagnoses between 2004 and 2008 were enrolled. The control cohort comprised age- and sex-matched controls. The HR and adjusted HR (aHR) were estimated for the risk of RC surgery between ACTD and control cohorts after adjustment for confounders. Furthermore, the effects of steroid and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use on the HR and aHR of RC surgery risk were analysed.

Results

We enrolled 5019 ACTD patients and 25 095 controls in the ACTD and control cohorts, respectively. RC surgery incidence was 49 and 24 per 100 000 person-years in the ACTD and control cohorts, respectively. In the ACTD cohort, the crude HR for RC surgery was 2.08 (95% CI , 1.08 to 4.02, p<0.05), and the aHR was 1.97 (95% CI, 1.01 to 3.82, p<0.05). The ACTD patients who used NSAIDs had an aHR of 3.13 (95% CI, 1.21 to 8.07, p<0.05) compared with the controls, but the ACTD patients who used steroids did not have a significantly higher aHR than the controls.

Conclusions

ACTD patients had an increased risk of RC repair surgery. However, no difference was found in RC surgery risk when steroids were used compared with the control cohort. This could indicate that inflammation control may be a strategy for managing subsequent RC lesions.
Identifying gaps in primary healthcare policy and governance in low-income and middle-income countries: protocol for an evidence gap map
Authors: Saif-Ur-Rahman K M , Mamun Razib , Anwar Iqbal
Published: February 2019

Introduction

There are gaps in the primary healthcare (PHC) delivery in majority of low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) due to epidemiological transition, emergence of outbreaks or war, and often lack of governance. In LMICs, governance is always a less focused aspect, and often limited to the role of the authority despite potential contribution of other actors. It is evident that community engagement and social mobilisation of health service delivery result in better health outcomes. Even in case of systems failure, the need for PHC services is satisfied by individuals and communities in LMICs. Available evidence including systematic reviews on PHC governance is mostly from high-income countries and there is limited work in LMICs. This evidence gap map (EGM) is a systematic exploration to identify evidence gaps in PHC policy and governance in this region.

Methods and analysis

Different bibliographic databases were explored to retrieve available studies considering the time period between 1980 and 2017, and these were independently screened by two reviewers. Screened articles will be considered for full-text extraction based on prespecified criteria for inclusion and exclusion. A modified SURE (Supporting the Use of Research Evidence) checklist will be used to assess the quality of included systematic reviews. Overview of the findings will be provided in synthesised form. Identified interventions and outcomes will be plotted in a dynamic platform to develop a gap map.

Ethics and dissemination

Findings of the EGM will be published in a peer-reviewed journal in a separate manuscript. This EGM aims to explore the evidence gaps in PHC policy and governance in LMICs. Findings from the EGM will highlight the gaps in PHC to guide policy makers and researchers for future research planning and development of national strategies.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018096883.