bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioconversion of biphenyl to a polyhydroxyalkanoate copolymer by Alcaligenes denitrificans A41
Authors: Yajima Taito , Nagatomo Mizuki , Wakabayashi Aiko , Sato Michio , Taguchi Seiichi , Maeda Michihisa
Published: August 2020

A polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) copolymer, poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) [P(3HB-co-3HV)], was biosynthesized from biphenyl as the sole carbon source using Alcaligenes (currently Achromobacter) denitrificans A41. This strain is capable of degrading polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and biphenyl. This proof-of-concept of the conversion of aromatic chemicals such as the environmental pollutant PCBs/biphenyl to eco-friendly products such as biodegradable polyester PHA was inspired by the uncovering of two genes encoding PHA synthases in the A. denitrificans A41 genome. When the carbon/nitrogen (C/N) ratio was set at 21, the cellular P(3HB-co-3HV) content in strain A41 reached its highest value of 10.1% of the cell dry weight (CDW). A two-step cultivation protocol improved the accumulation of P(3HB-co-3HV) by up to 26.2% of the CDW, consisting of 13.0 mol % 3HV when grown on minimum salt medium without nitrogen sources. The highest cellular content of P(3HB-co-3HV) (47.6% of the CDW) was obtained through the two-step cultivation of strain A41 on biphenyl as the sole carbon source. The purified copolymer had ultra-high molecular weight (weight-average molecular weight of 3.5 × 106), as revealed through gel-permeation chromatography. Based on the genomic information related to both polymer synthesis and biphenyl degradation, we finally proposed a metabolic pathway for the production of P(3HB-co-3HV) associated with the degradation of biphenyl by strain A41.
Modeling dynamics of cancer virotherapy with immune response
Authors: Al-Tuwairqi Salma M. , Al-Johani Najwa O. , Simbawa Eman A.
Published: August 2020

Virotherapy is a therapeutic treatment for cancer. It uses genetically engineered viruses to selectively infect, replicate in, and destroy cancer cells without damaging normal cells. In this paper, we present a modified model to include, within the dynamics of virotherapy, the interaction between uninfected tumor cells and immune response. The model is analyzed qualitatively to produce five equilibrium points. One of these equilibriums demonstrates the effect observed in virotherapy, where the immune system demolishes infected cells as well as viruses. Moreover, the existence and stability of the equilibrium points are established under certain criteria. Numerical simulations are performed to display the agreement with the analytical results. Finally, parameter analysis is carried out to illustrate which parameters in the model affect the outcome of virotherapy.
Stochastic dynamics in a delayed epidemic system with Markovian switching and media coverage
Authors: Liu Chao , Heffernan Jane
Published: August 2020

A stochastic SIR system with Lévy jumps and distributed delay is developed and employed to study the combined effects of Markovian switching and media coverage on stochastic epidemiological dynamics and outcomes. Stochastic Lyapunov functions are used to prove the existence of a stationary distribution to the positive solution. Sufficient conditions for persistence in mean and the extinction of an infectious disease are also shown.
68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI: determining ideal acquisition times to reduce noise and increase image quality
Authors: Murthy Vishnu , Smith Raven L. , Tao Dora H. , Lawhn-Heath Courtney A. , Korenchan Dave E. , Larson Peder E. Z. , Flavell Robert R. , Hope Thomas A.
Published: August 2020

Background

In this study, we investigate the impact of increased PET acquisition time per bed position on lesion detectability, standard uptake value, and image noise in 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/MRI scans.

Methods

Scans of twenty patients were analyzed in this study. Patients were injected with 68Ga-PSMA-11 (mean, 5.50 ± 1.49 mCi) and imaged on a 3.0 T time-of-flight PET/MRI. PET images were retrospectively reconstructed using 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 7, and 10 min of PET data. Lesion detectability was evaluated on a 5-point Likert Scale for each lesion in each reconstruction. Quantitative analysis was performed measuring image noise and lesion uptake.

Results

A total of 55 lesions were identified, and lesion detectability increased from 2.07 ± 1.14 for 0.5 min to 4.93 ± 0.26 for 10 min (p < 0.001), with no significant difference detected between 7 and 10 min of scan time. Average SUVmax decreased from 9.89 ± 6.62 for 0.5 min to 8.64 ± 6.81 for 10 min. Noise decreased from 0.72 ± 0.22 for 0.5 min to 0.31 ± 0.12 for 10 min (p < 0.001) and were nearly equivalent between 7 and 10 min. Pairwise interaction terms between size, SUVmax, and scan time were all found to be significant, although the interaction term between SUVmax and scan time was found to be the most significant.

Conclusions

Increased acquisition duration improves image quality by increasing detectability and reducing noise. In patients with biochemical recurrence, increased acquisition time up to 7 min improves lesion detection.
Altered thalamic neurotransmitters metabolism and functional connectivity during the development of chronic constriction injury induced neuropathic pain
Authors: Wang Zhifu , Huang Sheng , Yu Xiangmei , Li Long , Yang Minguang , Liang Shengxiang , Liu Weilin , Tao Jing
Published: August 2020

Background

To investigate the thalamic neurotransmitters and functional connections in the development of chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced neuropathic pain.

Methods

The paw withdrawal threshold was measured by mechanical stimulation the right hind paw with the von frey hair in the rats of CCI-induced neuropathic pain. The N-acetylaspartate (NAA) and Glutamate (Glu) in thalamus were detected by magnetic resonance spectrum (MRS) process. The thalamic functional connectivity with other brain regions was scanned by functional magnetic resonance image (fMRI).

Results

The paw withdrawal threshold of the ipsilateral side showed a noticeable decline during the pathological process. Increased concentrations of Glu and decreased levels of NAA in the thalamus were significantly correlated with mechanical allodynia in the neuropathic pain states. The thalamic regional homogeneity (ReHo) decreased during the process of neuropathic pain. The functional connectivity among the thalamus with the insula and somatosensory cortex were significantly increased at different time points (7, 14, 21 days) after CCI surgery.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that dynamic changes in thalamic NAA and Glu levels contribute to the thalamic functional connection hyper-excitation during CCI-induced neuropathic pain. Enhanced thalamus-insula functional connection might have a significant effect on the occurrence of neuropathic pain.
Effects of intraperitoneal injection of magnetic graphene oxide on the improvement of acute liver injury induced by CCl
4
Authors: Foroutan Tahereh , Ahmadi Fatemeh , Moayer Fariborze , Khalvati Sahar
Published: August 2020

Background

Liver failure is usually associated with the inflammation and oxidation of hepatocytes. Due to their unique properties, graphene and graphene-based nanostructures such as magnetic graphene oxide (MGO) are useful in biomedicine and engineering. In this study, synthesized MGO was used to improve the liver failure induced by carbon tetrachloride (CCl
4
). The hepatoprotective effects of intraperitoneal injection of MGO on the rat model of CCl
4
-induced acute liver failure were investigated.

Materials and methods

In order to provide a rat model of acute liver failure, male rats were intraperitoneally injected with 2 ml/kg body weight CCl
4
. In the experimental groups, rats received 2 ml/kg CCl
4
and 300 mg/kg MGO body weight simultaneously. Four days after injection, symptoms of acute liver failure appeared. The control, sham, CCl
4
, and CCl
4
 + MGO groups were compared and analyzed both histologically and biochemically.

Results

The results indicated that the MGO injection reduced all CCl
4
-induced liver failure such as necrosis, fibrosis, inflammation, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in the experimental groups of the rat model of acute liver failure.

Conclusion

The hepatoprotective effects of MGO might be due to histopathological suppression and inflammation inhibition in the liver.
Social contact and encounter in asylum seeker reception: the Utrecht Refugee Launchpad
Authors: Oliver Caroline , Geuijen Karin , Dekker Rianne
Published: August 2020

The Utrecht Refugee Launchpad was an experiment at city-level to create a more inclusive form of asylum seeker reception. The initiative used co-housing, bringing together young, local tenants with asylum seekers to improve social integration and local relations. This article examines the nature of social contact, and considers the value of relationships developed between asylum seekers and tenants, using qualitative data from interviews and participant observation. Our findings demonstrate the importance of context, as we show that the remote logics of the national asylum system imposed spatial and temporal limitations on the co-housing model to generate ‘adjacent’ and transient living. However, at times –through both accident and design– contact was developed with more ease: when there was an equal ratio, similarities between populations, low numbers (of around 80 people in total), access to shared space, and high commitment to the project’s ‘disposition to friendliness’. While we conclude that relationships proved ephemeral rather than sustained, the initiative nevertheless held promise by enabling asylum seekers brief escapes from landscapes of indifference encountered during reception. Recognising how wider institutional contexts impact on the development of contact however helps innovations like these to achieve a greater potential for transforming relationships and values in urban space.
Association of maxillary dental developmental abnormality with precocious puberty: a case-control study
Authors: Kim Yesel , Lee Nam-Ki , Kim Jae Hyun , Ku Jeong-Kui , Lee Bu-Kyu , Jung Hoi-In , Choi Sun-Kyu
Published: August 2020

Background

Dental studies of precocious puberty have focused on examination of jaw and dentition growth. The aim of the study was to analyze the relationship between precocious puberty and maxillary dental developmental abnormalities (DDAs).

Methods

This retrospective study was conducted on the Korean patients in whom dental panoramic and hand-wrist radiographs had been taken before they were 15 years of age. The maxillary DDAs were assessed as mesiodens, congenital missing teeth, peg-shape lateral incisors, or impacted teeth. The chronological ages of the control group members were within the normal range of the hand-wrist bone age. Others with a peak luteinizing hormone of ≥ 5 and < 5 IU/L were allocated to central precocious puberty (CPP) and peripheral precocious puberty (PPP), respectively.

Results

Of the enrolled 270 patients, 195, 52, and 23 were allocated to the control, CPP, and PPP groups, respectively. The maxillary DDAs were significantly more prevalent in the CPP group than in the other groups. Among those with maxillary DDA, the mesiodens predominated. Age- and sex-adjusted multivariate analysis revealed maxillary DDA (odds ratio, 3.36; 95% CI, 1.60-7.05) and especially mesiodens (odds ratio, 5.52; CI, 2.29-13.28) to be significantly associated with CPP.

Conclusions

Maxillary DDAs were significantly more prevalent in the CPP group than in the PPP or control groups. Among the many types of maxillary DDAs, mesiodens was significantly associated with CPP and may be considered a predictor of the development of CPP.
PP2A and tumor radiotherapy
Authors: Lei Xiao , Ma Na , Du Lehui , Liang Yanjie , Zhang Pei , Han Yanan , Qu Baolin
Published: August 2020

Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is a serine/threonine phosphatase that serves as a key regulator of cellular physiology in the context of apoptosis, mitosis, and DNA damage responses. Canonically, PP2A functions as a tumor suppressor gene. However, recent evidence suggests that inhibiting PP2A activity in tumor cells may represent a viable approach to enhancing tumor sensitivity to chemoradiotherapy as such inhibition can cause cells to enter a disordered mitotic state that renders them more susceptible to cell death. Indeed, there is evidence that inhibiting PP2A can slow tumor growth following radiotherapy in a range of cancer types including ovarian cancer, liver cancer, malignant glioma, pancreatic cancer, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. In the present review, we discuss current understanding of the role of PP2A in tumor radiotherapy and the potential mechanisms whereby it may influence this process.
Hybrid classifier for fault location in active distribution networks
Authors: Jamali Sadegh , Bahmanyar Alireza , Ranjbar Siavash
Published: August 2020

This paper presents a fast hybrid fault location method for active distribution networks with distributed generation (DG) and microgrids. The method uses the voltage and current data from the measurement points at the main substation, and the connection points of DG and microgrids. The data is used in a single feedforward artificial neural network (ANN) to estimate the distances to fault from all the measuring points. A k-nearest neighbors (KNN) classifier then interprets the ANN outputs and estimates a single fault location. Simulation results validate the accuracy of the fault location method under different fault conditions including fault types, fault points, and fault resistances. The performance is also validated for non-synchronized measurements and measurement errors.
Identification and quantification of notch receptors in human cutaneous melanoma using molecular biology techniques: literature review
Authors: Sangiuliano Lorena Dal Collina , de Oliveira Filho Renato Santos , de Oliveira Daniel Arcuschin , Gomes Heitor Carvalho , Ferreira Lydia Masako
Published: August 2020

Background

The Notch signaling pathway and its modulators are directly related to growth, verticalization and metastasis in melanoma, being a possible therapeutic target for the treatment of this type of cancer. There are several methods of molecular biology to identify and quantify Notch receptors and it is essential to study them for understanding the different results, advantages and disadvantages of each.

Main body

The present study brings a bibliographic review on the molecular biology methods used in the identification and quantification of these molecules, aiming to facilitate research involving Notch receptors in human melanoma. We identified as main methods of molecular biology Western Blotting, Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and DNA microarrays. A brief description of these methodologies is made and the advantages and disadvantages of each are discussed. Results concerning the function of this pathway are also discussed.

Short conclusion

It is known that the activation of Notch receptors is tumorigenic in most cases, however, depending on the microenvironment, it can provide tumor suppression. The adequate choice and use of the methodology for identification and quantification of Notch receptors is essential for the progress of knowledge of this important signaling pathway, which, certainly, will allow advances in the treatment of cutaneous melanoma.
Heritability and correlation analysis of morphological and yield traits in genetically modified cotton
Authors: REHMAN Abdul , MUSTAFA Nida , DU Xiongming , AZHAR Muhammad Tehseen
Published: August 2020

Background

Cotton is known for fiber extraction and it is grown in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world due to having hot weather. Cotton crop has a significant role in GDP of Pakistan. Therefore, the two-years research was conducted to estimate heritability and association among various yield contributing parameters of cotton, i.e., plant height, number of bolls per plant, number of sympodial branches per plant, seed cotton yield, boll weight, seed index, ginning outturn (GOT), fiber length, fiber strength, and fiber fineness.

Results

Association analysis revealed that seed cotton yield had a significant positive correlation with plant height, number of bolls per plant, number of sympodial branches per plant, GOT, staple length and fiber strength. Staple length and fiber strength were negatively linked with each other. Estimates of heritability were high for all of the traits except the number of sympodial branches per plant and boll weight.

Conclusion

The parent IUB-222 was found to be the best for plant height, the number of bolls per plant, boll weight, GOT, seed cotton yield, and seed index. The genotypes namely, NIAB-414 and VH-367 were identified as the best parents for fiber length, strength, and fineness. Among the crosses NIAB-414 × IUB-222 was the best for the number of bolls per plant, seed index, seed cotton yield and fiber fineness, whereas, the cross of NIAB-414 × CIM-632 was good for plant height. The combination of A555 × CIM-632 was the best for the number of sympodial branches per plant, boll weight, fiber length, and strength, and VH-367 × CIM-632 proved the best for GOT.
A guide to outcome measurement in psychiatry
Authors: Ryland Howard , Carlile Jane , Kingdon David
Published: August 2020

Measuring outcomes is becoming an increasingly standard (and highly complex) part of what mental health services are expected to do. Practising psychiatrists will need to have a good understanding of approaches to outcome measurement: used well, they have the potential to amplify the patient voice, promote good-quality services and facilitate research. We discuss what constitutes an outcome measure, the different ways that such measures can be obtained and the mechanisms for assessing the quality and appropriateness of an outcome measure. We outline the rapidly evolving research and policy context regarding outcome measurement, with particular reference to the UK's National Health Service. We also consider the potential pitfalls to outcome measurement, such as added clinical burden, inappropriate incentivisation of behaviour and incorrect interpretation of results. We discuss ways that such difficulties can be avoided or their effects mitigated.
DNA Methylation of Steroidogenic Enzymes in Benign Adrenocortical Tumors: New Insights in Aldosterone-Producing Adenomas
Authors: Di Dalmazi Guido , Morandi Luca , Rubin Beatrice , Pilon Catia , Asioli Sofia , Vicennati Valentina , De Leo Antonio , Ambrosi Francesca , Santini Donatella , Pagotto Uberto , Maffeis Valeria , Fassina Ambrogio , Fallo Francesco
Published: August 2020

Context

DNA methylation has been identified among putative regulatory mechanisms for CYP11B2 expression in primary aldosteronism.

Objective

The objective of this work is to investigate DNA methylation and expression of genes encoding steroidogenic enzymes in benign adrenocortical tumors.

Design and Setting

This cross-sectional study took place at university hospitals.

Patients

We collected fresh-frozen tissues from patients with benign adrenocortical adenomas (n = 48) (nonfunctioning n = 9, autonomous cortisol secretion n = 9, Cushing syndrome n = 17, aldosterone-producing [APA] n = 13) and adrenal cortex adjacent to APA (n = 12). We collected formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) specimens of paired APA and concurrent aldosterone-producing cell clusters (APCCs) (n = 6).

Intervention

DNA methylation levels were evaluated by quantitative bisulfite next-generation sequencing in fresh-frozen tissues (CYP11A1, CYP11B1, CYP11B2, CYP17A1, CYP21A2, HSD3B1, HSD3B2, NR5A1, STAR, and TSPO) and FFPE APA/APCC paired samples (CYP11B2). CYP11B1, CYP11B2, CYP17, CYP21, and STAR gene expressions were examined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Main Outcome Measure

The main outcome measure was DNA methylation.

Results

CYP11B2 methylation levels were significantly lower in APA than in other adrenal tissues (P < .001). Methylation levels of the remaining genes were comparable among groups. Overall, CYP11B2 expression and DNA methylation were negatively correlated (ρ = –0.379; P = .003). In FFPE-paired APA/APCC samples, CYP11B2 methylation level was significantly lower in APA than in concurrent APCCs (P = .028).

Conclusions

DNA methylation plays a regulatory role for CYP11B2 expression and may contribute to aldosterone hypersecretion in APA. Lower CYP11B2 methylation levels in APA than in APCCs may suggest an APCC-to-APA switch via progressive CYP11B2 demethylation. Conversely, DNA methylation seems not to be relevant in regulating the expression of genes encoding steroidogenic enzymes other than CYP11B2.
Vitamin D Supplementation for Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: To D or Not to D?
Authors: Pittas Anastassios G , Jorde Rolf , Kawahara Tetsuya , Dawson-Hughes Bess
Published: August 2020

Context

Over the last decade, vitamin D has emerged as a risk determinant for type 2 diabetes and vitamin D supplementation has been hypothesized as a potential intervention to lower diabetes risk. Recently, several trials have reported on the effect of vitamin D supplementation on diabetes prevention in people with prediabetes.

Evidence Acquisition

A comprehensive literature review was performed using PubMed, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov to identify: (1) recent meta-analyses of longitudinal observational studies that report on the association between blood 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) level and incident diabetes, and (2) clinical trials of adults with prediabetes that have reported on the effect of vitamin D supplementation on incident diabetes.

Evidence Synthesis

Longitudinal observational studies report highly consistent associations between higher blood 25(OH)D levels and a lower risk of incident diabetes in diverse populations, including populations with prediabetes. Trials in persons with prediabetes show risk reduction in incident diabetes with vitamin D supplementation. In the 3 large trials that were specifically designed and conducted for the prevention of diabetes, vitamin D supplementation, when compared with placebo, reduced the risk of developing diabetes by 10% to 13% in persons with prediabetes not selected for vitamin D deficiency.

Conclusions

Results from recent trials are congruent with a large body of evidence from observational studies indicating that vitamin D has a role in modulating diabetes risk. Participant-level meta-analysis of the 3 largest trials should provide a more refined estimate of risk reduction and identify patient populations that are likely to benefit the most from vitamin D supplementation.
Perioperative Allogeneic Red Blood Cell Transfusion and Wound Infections: An Observational Study
Authors: Yuan Yuchen , Zhang Yuelun , Shen Le , Xu Li , Huang Yuguang
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND:

It remains unclear whether the benefits of performing perioperative allogeneic red blood cell (RBC) transfusion outweigh the risks of postoperative wound infection. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of perioperative RBC transfusion as well as dose–response relationship on wound infections in surgical patients in a large cohort.

METHODS:

As a retrospective observational study, the national Hospital Quality Monitoring System database was used to retrieve information about in-hospital surgical patients without limitations on surgical types in the People’s Republic of China between 2013 and 2018. Patients were divided into the perioperative RBC transfusion and non-RBC transfusion groups, and wound infection rates (the primary end point) were compared. Secondary end points included in-hospital mortality, nosocomial infections, and length of hospital stay. Furthermore, patients who underwent RBC transfusion were subdivided into 6 groups based on the volume of transfused RBCs to investigate the dose–response relationship between RBC transfusions and wound infections. The association between RBC transfusion and patient outcomes were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders.

RESULTS:

A total of 1,896,584 patients from 29 provinces were included, among whom 76,078 (4.0%) underwent RBC transfusions; the overall wound infection rate was 0.7%. After adjusting for confounding factors, perioperative RBC transfusion was associated with higher odds of wound infection (odds ratio [OR] = 2.24, 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.09–2.40; P < .001). As the volume of transfused RBCs increased, so did the odds of wound infection with a clear dose–response relationship (OR of >0 and ≤1 U, >1 and ≤2 U, >2 and ≤4 U, >4 and ≤8 U, >8 U transfusion compared with no RBC transfusion were 1.20, 95% CI, 0.76–1.91; 1.27, 95% CI, 1.10–1.47; 1.70, 95% CI, 1.49–1.93; 2.12, 95% CI, 1.83–2.45 and 3.65, 95% CI, 3.13–4.25, respectively). RBC transfusion was also found to be associated with higher odds of in-hospital mortality, nosocomial infection, and longer hospital stay.

CONCLUSIONS:

RBC transfusion was associated with an increased odd of postoperative wound infection in surgical patients, and a significant dose-related relationship was also observed. While there are still essential confounders not adjusted for and the results do not necessarily indicate a causal relationship, we still recommend to lessen perioperative blood loss and optimize blood conservation strategies.
Diffusion of innovation in radiation oncology in the United States
Authors: Sansourekidou Patricia , Margaritis Vasileios , Kuo Wen-Hung
Published: August 2020

Objective:

To develop an instrument for quantifying innovation and assess the diffusion of innovation in radiation oncology (RO) in the United States.

Methods:

Primary data were collected for using total population convenience sampling. Innovation Score and Innovation Utilization Score were determined using 20 indicators. 240 medical physicists (MPs) practicing in RO in the United States completed a custom Internet-based survey.

Results:

Centers with no academic affiliation are trailing behind in innovation in total (MD = 1.65, 95% C I[0.38,2.917], p = 0.011, d = 0.351), in patient treatment (MD = 0.39, 95% CI [0.021,0.76], p = 0.038, d = 0.282), and workflow innovation (MD = 7.09, 95% CI [0.78,13.39], p = 0.028, d = 0.330). Centers with no academic affiliation are trailing behind in innovation utilization in total (MD = 0.46, 95% CI [0.05,0.86], p = 0.028, d = 0.188). Rural center are trailing behind in patient positioning in innovation (MD = 0.31, 95% CI [0.011,0.612], p = 0.042, d = 0.293) and innovation utilization (MD = 16.22, 95% CI [0.73,31.72], p = 0.04, d = 0.608). Rural centers are trailing behind in innovative treatments (MD = 0.62, 95% CI [0.23,1.00], p = 0.002, d = 0.457). Motivation (rs = 0.224, p = 0.002) and appreciation (rs = 0.215, p = 0.003) were statistically significant personal factors influencing innovation utilization.

Conclusions:

There is a wide range of innovation across RO centers in the United States. RO centers in the United States are not practicing as innovative as reasonably achievable.

Advances in knowledge:

This work quantified how innovative RO in the United States is and results provide guidance on how to improve it in the future.
In vitro studies provide insight into effects of Dicer-2 helicase mutations inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Donelick Helen M. , Talide Loïc , Bellet Matthieu , Aruscavage P. Joseph , Lauret Emilie , Aguiar Eric R.G.R. , Marques Joao T. , Meignin Carine , Bass Brenda L.
Published: August 2020

In vitro,Drosophila melanogasterDicer-2 (Dcr-2) uses its helicase domain to initiate processing of dsRNA with blunt (BLT) termini, and its Platform•PAZ domain to initiate processing of dsRNA with 3′ overhangs (ovrs). To understand the relationship of these in vitro observations to roles of Dcr-2 in vivo, we compared in vitro effects of two helicase mutations to their impact on production of endogenous and viral siRNAs in flies. Consistent with the importance of the helicase domain in processing BLT dsRNA, both point mutations eliminated processing of BLT, but not 3′ovr, dsRNA in vitro. However, the mutations had different effects in vivo. A point mutation in the Walker A motif of the Hel1 subdomain, G31R, largely eliminated production of siRNAs in vivo, while F225G, located in the Hel2 subdomain, showed reduced levels of endogenous siRNAs, but did not significantly affect virus-derived siRNAs. In vitro assays monitoring dsRNA cleavage, dsRNA binding, ATP hydrolysis, and binding of the accessory factor Loquacious-PD provided insight into the different effects of the mutations on processing of different sources of dsRNA in flies. Our in vitro studies suggest effects of the mutations in vivo relate to their effects on ATPase activity, dsRNA binding, and interactions with Loquacious-PD. Our studies emphasize the importance of future studies to characterize dsRNA termini as they exist inDrosophilaand other animals.
Avaliação do conhecimento de Agentes Comunitários de Saúde sobre o conteúdo da Caderneta da Saúde da Criança
Authors: Santos Washington José dos , Fittipaldi Etiene Oliveira da Silva , Sousa Fabiana de Oliveira Silva , Wiesiolek Carine Carolina , Melo Lorena Albuquerque de , Lambertz Karla Mônica Ferraz Teixeira , Rocha Luana Padilha da
Published: August 2020

Objetivo: caracterizar o conhecimento dos agentes comunitários de saúde (ACS) sobre o conteúdo da Caderneta da Saúde da Criança (CSC) e identificar a capacidade de detectar atraso no Desenvolvimento Neuropsicomotor (DNPM) das crianças por meio da caderneta. Método: estudo transversal, realizado entre agosto de 2018 e novembro de 2019, em Recife, Pernambuco (PE). A amostra foi composta por 109 ACS de diferentes municípios de PE, que responderam, voluntariamente, a um questionário semiestruturado sobre a CSC. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo programa Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) versão 20.0, com medida da razão de chances e intervalos de confiança, assumindo um erro de 5% (Odds Ratio - OR e IC 95%). Resultados: 88,1% (n=96) dos ACS eram do sexo feminino; 85,2% (n=92) pertenciam à Estratégia de Saúde da Família e 58,9% (n=63) tinham cobertura de equipe do Núcleo Ampliado da Saúde da Família e Atenção Básica. Informações sobre vacinação foi o item mais assinalado na CSC (99,1%). Quanto à avaliação do DNPM, 60,4% dos ACS relataram saber usar o instrumento de vigilância contido na CSC. Uma análise bivariada encontrou que o ACS que já tinha participado de algum treinamento sobre DNPM referiu sentir-se 6,75 vezes mais capaz de detectar atraso no DNPM. Conclusão: a utilização da CSC pelos ACS tem sido caracterizada, principalmente, para acompanhamento e registro de atividades de vacinação e de crescimento pôndero-estatural. A realização de treinamentos
Rejoice architecture meets social norms to accelerate vaccination in Nepal: Protocol for a mixed-method quasi-experimental study
Authors: Paul Alicia , Upreti Kamana , Nepal Shraddha , Lohani Jeevan , Adhikari Kriti , Rimal Rajiv
Published: August 2020

Background: Each year, 600,000 children under 5 years old die from vaccine-preventable diseases globally. Immunization is an effective way to prevent many diseases, saving two to three million lives per year. The Nepal National Government recommends vaccinations for all children for 11 diseases by 15 months of age. However, only 78% of children between 1-2 years of age have received all recommended vaccines and only 43% receive them at the age-appropriate times for which they are scheduled.

Objectives: This protocol describes the development of an intervention – called “Rejoice Architecture” – that is informed by three theoretical perspectives: choice architecture, the broken windows theory, and the theory of normative social behavior. We also describe a mixed-methods approach to develop the intervention, which will improve the physical and social environments of health facilities in Makwanpur, Nepal. We hypothesize this intervention will improve immunization behaviors and intentions among mothers of children younger than 2 years, pregnant women, and prospective mothers.

Methods: We describe the qualitative formative assessment to understand existing attitudes, norms, and behaviors among caregivers, healthcare workers, and government representatives. The formative assessment will include in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. We also describe the overall quasi-experimental study design, used to assess intervention impact.

Impact: This study will contribute to the social and behavioral change communication intervention research by offering a novel strategy for increasing immunization. This study will also illustrate to policymakers the value of structural change for health service delivery.
Global proteomic analysis of insulin receptor interactors in glomerular podocytes
Authors: Hosawi Salman B. , Humphries Jonathan D. , Coward Richard J. , Knight David , Humphries Martin J. , Lennon Rachel
Published: August 2020

Background:Insulin signalling contributes to diverse cellular activities including protein synthesis, proliferation and cell survival. Insulin resistance describes the inability of cells to activate the insulin signalling pathway effectively; leading to pathological effects in multiple organ systems including the kidney. In diabetic kidney disease, there is progressive glomerular dysfunction and recent studies have demonstrated that the kidney podocyte is a direct target for insulin action. In this study we defined the literature-based insulin receptor (INSR) interactome and utilised an unbiased proteomic approach to examine INSR interactors in podocytes.

Methods:Human podocytes expressing the INSR were characterised under basal and insulin resistant conditions. The INSR was isolated by whole cell immunoprecipitation following a time course stimulation of 2, 7, and 15 minutes with of 100nM insulin. The resulting INSR complexes were analysed by label-free mass spectrometry (MS) to detect protein interactors.

Results:We identified 27 known, direct INSR interactors in addition to novel interactors including doublecortin domain-containing protein 2 (DCDC2). The interaction of DCDC2 with the INSR was confirmed by immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence, and under insulin resistant conditions, DCDC2 had increased association with the INSR. siRNA knockdown of DCDC2 in podocytes resulted in cell morphological change and altered INSR localisation.

Conclusion:This study provides insight into the complexity of INSR interactors in podocytes and highlights DCDC2 as a novel INSR binding protein. Involvement of this novel interactor in insulin signalling and podocyte biology may explain how insulin resistance alters morphology and integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier.
When Loyalty Goes Mobile: Effects of Mobile Loyalty Apps on Purchase, Redemption, and Competition
Authors: Son Yoonseock , Oh Wonseok , Han Sang Pil , Park Sungho
Published: August 2020

This research investigates how a shift from traditional loyalty cards to mobile-driven loyalty apps affects consumers’ reward redemption patterns, purchase behaviors, and store-level competition. The findings indicate that loyalty app adoption is associated with increased expenditure and purchase frequency as well as more active point redemption. In a multivendor loyalty program (MVLP) context, the use of loyalty apps is associated with spillover effects in which case customers visit more stores that they had not previously considered and exhibit diminished allegiance to their focal shop after they adopt a loyalty app. Finally, the adoption of loyalty apps is related to deal-prone behaviors because informed consumers tend to selectively purchase highly discounted products. Our findings provide several valuable implications for managers and platform owners who are considering launching mobile loyalty programs (LPs) and participating in an MVLP market. Although the merits of loyalty app adoption are apparent, we caution against potential downsides at individual store levels. Many customers are likely to succumb to deals, selectively purchasing highly discounted products with low margins through loyalty apps. The thrust of LPs should be directed toward fostering a strong connection with a brand, going beyond the promise of deals and promotions.
Developing and Testing a Theoretical Path Model of Web Page Impression Formation and Its Consequence
Authors: Ye Xuhong , Peng Xixian , Wang Xinwei , Teo Hock-Hai
Published: August 2020

Spotlight
RESEARCH ROUNDUP
Authors: Dening Karen Harrison
Published: August 2020

Karen Harrison Dening provides a synopsis and brief review of a selection of recently published research articles of interest to neuroscience nurses, highlighting key points to keep you up to date; a full reference is provided for those who wish to read the research in more detail
The impact of COVID-19 on multiple sclerosis services: a multiple sclerosis nurse perspective
Authors: Ayer Mavis
Published: August 2020

COVID-19 has had a resounding impact on the way health care and support has been delivered; multiple sclerosis services are no exception. Mavis Ayer outlines the effect of COVID-19 on her practice and explores whether the virus can act as the necessary catalyst for positive change in multiple sclerosis services
The BANN autumn conference, rescheduled: Glasgow, 1-2 October 2021
Authors: Spence Emily
Published: August 2020

As the UK moves towards the development of a ‘new normal’, BANN is delighted to announce the rescheduling of its autumn conference. Emily Spence shares the details and outlines what attendees can expect from this unmissable event
What you need to know about brain abscesses
Authors: De Andres Crespo Marta , McKinnon Chris , Halliday Jane
Published: August 2020

A brain abscess is a focal accumulation of pus in the brain parenchyma arising from direct inoculation, contiguous spread from local anatomical structures or haematogenous seeding from a remote source of infection. It can result in significant morbidity and mortality, making early diagnosis and treatment vital. Only one fifth of patients present with the classic triad of headache, fever and focal neurological symptoms. More commonly patients show signs and symptoms of raised intracranial pressure alone, such as confusion or reduced conscious level, headache, nausea and vomiting, which can be a presentation of many intracranial pathologies. Distinguishing an abscess from other pathologies such as meningitis and tumours is crucial, as clinically these can present in similar ways, but their management and outcomes are very different. Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging brain scans can help localise the lesion and differentiate ring-enhancing lesions caused by a brain abscess from malignant tumours. Cerebral abscesses are considered a neurosurgical emergency; early stabilisation, diagnosis and management in a neurosurgical centre is important in reducing morbidity and mortality.
Hip fractures
Authors: Li Lily , Bennett-Brown Katharine , Morgan Catrin , Dattani Rupen
Published: August 2020

In the UK the incidence of hip fractures is nearly 76 000 cases per year, with the vast majority of these fractures occurring in patients over the age of 70 years. Most patients who sustain a hip fracture will have significant comorbidities and up to 40% will have cognitive impairment. For patients, sustaining a hip fracture can potentially be a devastating event. This article provides an overview of the presentation, assessment and management of hip fractures for core surgical, acute care common stem and emergency medicine trainees.
In vivo SS-OCT imaging of crystalline lens sutures
Authors: Gupta Ashish , Ruminski Daniel , Jimenez Villar Alfonso , Duarte Toledo Raúl , Manzanera Silvestre , Panezai Spozmai , Mompean Juan , Artal Pablo , Grulkowski Ireneusz
Published: August 2020

We demonstrate in vivo three-dimensional (3-D) visualization of crystalline lens sutures in healthy eyes using swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT). Volumetric data sets of the crystalline lenses were acquired and processed to obtain enhanced contrast projection images and to extract suture patterns in both anterior and posterior lens. The results presented different types of the sutures including Y-sutures, simple and complex star sutures. Age-related changes in suture arrangement were characterized quantitatively. Crystalline lens suture imaging with SS-OCT might be a useful tool in fundamental studies on development and ageing of human lens.
Enhancement in the photonic response of ZnO nanorod–gated AlGaN/GaN HEMTs with N2O plasma treatment
Authors: Khan Fasihullah , Ajmal Hafiz Muhammad Salman , Nam Kiyun , Kim Sam-Dong
Published: August 2020

We demonstrate an improvement in the photoresponse characteristics of ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors (PDs) using the N2O plasma-treated ZnO nanorod (NR) gated AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) structure. The PDs fabricated with ZnO NRs plasma-treated for 6 min show superior performance in terms of responsivity (∼1.54×10 5 A/W), specific detectivity (∼ 4.7×1013 cm·Hz−1/2/W), and on/off current ratio (∼40). These improved performance parameters are the best among those from HEMT-based PDs reported to date. Photoluminescence analysis shows a significant enhancement in near band edge emission due to the effective suppression of native defects near the surface of ZnO NRs after plasma treatment. As our X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveals a very high O/Zn ratio of ∼0.96 from the NR samples plasma-treated for 6 min, the N2O plasma radicals also show a clear impact on ZnO stoichiometry. From our X-ray diffraction analysis, the plasma-treated ZnO NRs show much greater improvement in (002) peak intensity and degree of (002) orientation (∼0.996) than those of as-grown NRs. This significant enhancement in (002) degree of orientation and stoichiometry in ZnO nano-crystals contribute to the enhancement in photoresponse characteristics of the PDs.
Localized surface plasmon mode-enhanced spectrum-tunable radiation in electrically driven plasmonic antennas
Authors: Liu Yingjian , Jiang Zhongjun , Qin Jin , Wang Liang
Published: August 2020

A spectrum-tunable source with ultra-small volume is highly desired by on-chip information processing technologies. As a promising candidate, light emission from electrically driven tunnel junctions has gained much interest. In this Letter, using a gap bowtie antenna-based metal–insulator–metal junction as the source, multiple peaks are found in the electroluminescence spectrum of the antenna system. We attribute the peaks observed in the experimental emission spectrum to resonant plasmon modes that are supported by the antennas. This explanation is confirmed numerically by finite difference time domain calculations and analytically by using a theory imitated from scanning tunneling microscopy. Our results show that the localized surface plasmon modes can be finely tuned by varying the gap distances and the geometries of the antennas, which eventually contribute to a spectrum-tunable light source. This Letter may provide a path for spectrum-tunable electrically driven light sources on photonic devices.
Impact of raw material surface oxide removal on dual band infrared optical properties of As2Se3 chalcogenide glass
Authors: Yadav Anupama , Kang Myungkoo , Goncalves Claudia , Blanco Cesar , Sharma Rashi , Richardson Kathleen
Published: August 2020

The manufacturing of low loss chalcogenide glasses (ChGs) for optoelectronic applications is ultimately defined by the concentration of impurities present in starting materials or imparted via processing. We describe a rapid method for purifying metallic starting materials in As2Se3 glass where oxide reduction is correlated to optical and physical properties. Specifically, As-O reduction enhances the glass’ dual-band optical transparency proportional to the extent (13-fold reduction) of oxide reduction, and is accompanied by a change in density and hardness associated with changes in matrix bonding. A significant modification of the glass’ index and LWIR Abbe number is reported highlighting the significant impact purification has on material dispersion control required in optical designs.
Improvements to the sensitivity and sampling capabilities of Doppler Michelson Interferometers
Authors: Kristoffersen S. K. , Langille J. A. , Ward W. E.
Published: August 2020

For the first time, a generalized bin-by-bin analysis approach developed to characterize the visibility, phase, and brightness from Doppler Michelson interferometry (DMI) fringe images is presented. This approach allows for significant advances to the spatial/temporal resolution and sensitivity of DMI utilized for measuring upper atmospheric motions. Expressions for the sensitivity that depend only on the instrument parameters are derived. A unique calibration approach, developed to take full advantage of the DMI imaging capability, is described. The usefulness and validity of this approach is demonstrated using observations from two field-widened interferometers implemented in the field (E-Region Wind Interferometer (ERWIN-II) and the Michelson Interferometer for Airglow Dynamics Imaging (MIADI)). Incorporating the imaging capability into the DMI approach enhances the spatial/temporal information that can be extracted from geophysical observations.
Unique patterns of cardiogenic and fibrotic gene expression in rat cardiac fibroblasts
Authors: Tachampa Kittipong , Wongtawan Tuempong
Published: August 2020

Background and Aim: Cardiac fibroblasts are important for both normal and pathological states of the heart, but the knowledge in cell physiology and genomics is still poorly understood. The aims of the present study were; first, to investigate the expression of cardiac and fibrotic genes in rat cardiac fibroblasts compared to cardiomyocytes and other fibroblasts (skin and muscle fibroblasts), second, to examine the in vitro effect of serum concentration on fibroblast gene expression. The findings can potentially be applied in ischemia/reperfusion models.

Materials and Methods: Rat cardiac fibroblasts were collected and cultured in different conditions, and their gene expression (21 cardiogenic genes and 16 fibrotic genes) was compared with cardiomyocytes and other fibroblasts using comparative quantitative polymerase chain reaction. We also mimicked myocardial ischemia/reperfusion by depleting and then adding a serum into the culture in conventional culture (10% serum).

Results: Cardiac fibroblasts expressed most of the cardiogenic genes, but their expression levels were significantly lower than in cardiomyocytes, while almost all fibrotic genes in the cardiac fibroblasts were significantly more highly expressed than in cardiomyocytes, except matrix metallopeptidase 9 (Mmp9) which also had greater expression in other fibroblasts. After mimicking cardiac ischemia and reperfusion in vitro by starving and then adding a serum into the cardiac fibroblast culture, the results revealed that Mmp9 expression was significantly increased (>30 times) after increasing but not reducing the serum in the culture. The expression of most cardiogenic and fibrotic genes in cardiac fibroblasts tended to decrease after increasing the serum in the culture. These changes were specific to cardiac fibroblasts but no other fibroblasts.

Conclusion: Cardiac fibroblasts have a distinct pattern of gene expression from other fibroblasts and cardiomyocytes. They are also sensitive to high serum concentration but not affected by serum depletion, suggesting that the process of developing cardiac fibrosis might be stimulated by reperfusion or overcirculation rather than ischemia. The cell starvation followed the adding of serum may serve as a useful model to study cardiac fibrosis cause by the change of blood flow.