bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of spatial structure patterns of city networks in the Yangtze River Economic Belt from the perspective of corporate pledge linkage
Authors: Jin Xingxing , Hu Guojian , Ding Hailong , Ye Shilin , Lu Yuqi , Lin Jinhuang
Published: March 2020

The pledge of stock rights is a method for measuring the external horizontal connections of enterprises, which is more suitable to represent the city network compared with the vertical connections of enterprises. Meanwhile, it is greatly significant to express the relationships of regional spaces. The paper characterizes and explores the evolution of urban spatial structure with complex network research methods to enrich the relevant works on city networks in the Yangtze River Economic Belt from 2011 to 2017. The results are as follows: First, from 2011 to 2017, the pledge of stock rights among cities was enhanced significantly, and the trend of the city networks' characteristics become strengthened and more complicated. Second, cities in the Yangtze River Delta have relatively high connection values, however, cities in the western area are holding peripheral positions within the city network. Third, due to the advantages of economic agglomeration and radiation, the provincial capital have become the core nodes in the city network. Fourth, Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Nanjing have dominant positions within city networks in the Yangtze River Economic Belt. Particularly, Shanghai, as one of the leading financial centers in China, has a growing influence on other cities and gradually evolved into a regional growth pole city and the first core city.
STATE DEPENDENCE IN LABOR MARKET FLUCTUATIONS
Authors: Pizzinelli Carlo , Theodoridis Konstantinos , Zanetti Francesco
Published: March 2020

This article documents state dependence in labor market fluctuations. Using a Threshold Vector Autoregression (TVAR) model, we establish that the unemployment rate, the job separation rate, and the job‐finding rate (JFR) exhibit a larger response to productivity shocks during periods with low aggregate productivity. A Diamond–Mortensen–Pissarides model with endogenous job separation and on‐the‐job search replicates these empirical regularities well. We calibrate the model to match the standard deviation of the job‐transition rates explained by productivity shocks in the TVAR, and show that the model explains 88% of the state dependence in the unemployment rate, 76% for the separation rate and 36% for the JFR. The key channel underpinning state dependence in both job separation and JFRs is the interaction of the firm's reservation productivity level and the distribution of match‐specific idiosyncratic productivity. Results are robust across several variations to the baseline model.
Nurse resilience: A concept analysis
Authors: Cooper Alannah L. , Brown Janie A. , Rees Clare S. , Leslie Gavin D.
Published: March 2020

Nurse resilience is attracting increasing attention in research and practice. Possession of a high level of resilience is cited as being crucial for nurses to succeed professionally and manage workplace stressors. There is no agreed definition of nurse resilience. A concept analysis was undertaken to examine nurse resilience using a priori selected analysis framework. This concept analysis aims to systematically analyse resilience as it relates to nurses and establish a working definition of nurse resilience. Sixty‐nine papers met the search criteria for inclusion. Key attributes of nurse resilience were social support, self‐efficacy, work–life balance/self‐care, humour, optimism, and being realistic. Resilience enables nurses to positively adapt to stressors and adversity. It is a complex and dynamic process which varies over time and context and embodies both individual attributes and external resources. Sustaining nurse resilience requires action and engagement from both individuals and organizations.
Social, commercial, or both? An exploratory study of the identity orientation of digital social innovations
Authors: Bonina Carla , López‐Berzosa David , Scarlata Mariarosa
Published: March 2020

The information systems literature has studied digital innovation extensively and focused primarily on its commercial related objectives. Yet, digital social innovations (DSIs) seek to solve social problems, while implementing commercially viable approaches. Drawing from the social entrepreneurship literature and using computational social science methods, we identify the peculiar utilitarian (commercial) and collectivistic (social) identity orientations that shape DSI. We use a sample of 292 DSI initiatives from Latin America and find that DSIs present both utilitarian and collectivist identity orientation. We also find that the collectivistic identity orientation tends to be more salient in less developed contexts. This allows us to discuss implications for the research on DSI and to open up a discussion on the role of context and possible tensions that may emerge in combining both identity orientations.
Issues of Power and Representation: Adapting Positionality and Reflexivity in Community‐Based Design
Authors: Schiffer Anne
Published: March 2020

Increasingly designers from an array of different disciplinary backgrounds work in international and community development, yet design education rarely prepares them for the challenges and roles in this context. The article reflects on issues of power and representation during design research in The Gambia by adapting reflexivity and positionality which are key concepts established in development studies. Reflections are based on research carried out in The Gambia since 2010 which is comprised of phases of immersion, mapping and co‐design. They provide in‐depth insights currently lacking in design literature that demonstrate the value of reflexivity and positionality to iterate roles and methods in community‐based design. Whilst not suggesting particular teaching methods, the article proposes the integration of these concepts into existing structures to better prepare students for increasingly common futures in the workplace. Broader themes that emerge and can be adapted to different design contexts include building trust, entanglement in power dynamics between different actors, personal vulnerability, as well as the need to challenge problems as starting points for design interventions.
Identification of critical isthmus using coherent mapping in patients with scar‐related atrial tachycardia
Authors: Vicera Jennifer Jeanne B. , Lin Yenn‐Jiang , Lee Po‐Tseng , Chang Shih‐Lin , Lo Li‐Wei , Hu Yu‐Feng , Chung Fa‐Po , Lin Chin‐Yu , Chang Ting‐Yung , Tuan Ta‐Chuan , Chao Tze‐Fan , Liao Jo‐Nan , Wu Cheng‐I , Liu Chih‐Min , Lin Chung‐Hsing , Chuang Chieh‐Mao , Chen Chun‐Chao , Chin Chye Gen , Liu Shin‐Huei , Cheng Wen‐Han , Tai Le Phat , Huang Sung‐Hao , Chou Ching‐Yao , Lugtu Isaiah , Liu Ching‐Han , Chen Shih‐Ann
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Accurate identification of slow conducting regions in patients with scar‐related atrial tachycardia (AT) is difficult using conventional electrogram annotation for cardiac electroanatomic mapping (EAM). Estimating delays between neighboring mapping sites is a potential option for activation map computation. We describe our initial experience with CARTO 3 Coherent Mapping (Biosense Webster Inc,) in the ablation of complex ATs.

Methods

Twenty patients (58 ± 10 y/o, 15 males) with complex ATs were included. We created three‐dimensional EAMs using CARTO 3 system with CONFIDENSE and a high‐resolution mapping catheter (Biosense Webster Inc). Local activation time and coherent maps were used to aid in the identification of conduction isthmus (CI) and focal origin sites. System‐defined slow or nonconducting zones and CI, defined by concealed entrainment (postpacing interval < 20 ms), CV < 0.3 m/s and local fractionated electrograms were evaluated.

Results

Twenty‐six complex ATs were mapped (mean: 1.3 ± 0.7 maps/pt; 4 focal, 22 isthmus‐dependent). Coherent mapping was better in identifying CI/breakout sites where ablation terminated the tachycardia (96.2% vs 69.2%; P = .010) and identified significantly more CI (mean/chamber 2.0 ± 1.1 vs 1.0 ± 0.7; P < .001) with narrower width (19.8 ± 10.5 vs 43.0 ± 23.9 mm; P < .001) than conventional mapping. Ablation at origin and CI sites was successful in 25 (96.2%) with long‐term recurrence in 25%.

Conclusions

Coherent mapping with conduction velocity vectors derived from adjacent mapping sites significantly improved the identification of CI sites in scar‐related ATs with isthmus‐dependent re‐entry better than conventional mapping. It may be used in conjunction with conventional mapping strategies to facilitate recognition of slow conduction areas and critical sites that are important targets of ablation.
Islets of heterogeneous myocardium within the scar in cardiac magnetic resonance predict ventricular tachycardia after myocardial infarction
Authors: Malaczynska‐Rajpold Katarzyna , Blaszyk Krzysztof , Kociemba Anna , Pyda Malgorzata , Posadzy‐Malaczynska Anna , Grajek Stefan
Published: March 2020

Introduction

We assessed findings in cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) as predictors of ventricular tachycardia (VT) after myocardial infarction (MI), which could allow for more precise identification of patients at risk of sudden cardiac death.

Methods

Forty‐eight patients after prior MI were enrolled and divided into two groups: with (n = 24) and without (n = 24) VT. VT was confirmed by electrophysiological study and exit site was estimated based on 12‐lead electrocardiogram. All patients underwent CMR with late gadolinium enhancement.

Results

The examined groups did not differ significantly in clinical and demographical parameters (including LV ejection fraction). There was a significant difference in the infarct age between the VT and non‐VT group (15.8 ± 8.4 vs 7.1 ± 6.7 years, respectively; P = .002), with the cut‐off point at the level of 12 years. In the scar core, islets of heterogeneous myocardium were revealed. They were defined as areas of potentially viable myocardium within or adjacent to the core scar. The number of islets was the strongest independent predictor of VT (odds ratio [OR], 1.42; confidence interval [CI], 1.17‐1.73), but total islet size and the largest islet area were also significantly higher in the VT group (OR, 1.04; CI, 1.02‐1.07 and OR, 1.16; CI, 1.01‐1.27, respectively). Myocardial segments with fibrosis forming 25%‐75% of the ventricular wall were associated with a higher incidence of VT (7.5 ± 2.1 vs 5.7 ± 2.6; P = .014). Three‐dimension CMR reconstruction confirmed good correlation of the location of the islets/channels with VT exit site during electroanatomical mapping in five cases.

Conclusions

The identification and quantification of islets of heterogeneous myocardium within the scar might be useful for predicting VT in patients after MI.
piRNA‐63076 contributes to pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell proliferation through acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase
Authors: Ma Cui , Zhang Lixin , Wang Xiaoying , He Siyu , Bai June , Li Qian , Zhang Min , Zhang Chen , Yu Xiufeng , Zhang Junting , Xin Wei , Li Yiying , Zhu Daling
Published: March 2020

Piwi‐interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are thought to be germline‐specific and to be involved in maintaining genome stability during development. Recently, piRNA expression has been identified in somatic cells in diverse organisms. However, the roles of piRNAs in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cell (PASMC) proliferation and the molecular mechanism underlying the hypoxia‐regulated pathological process of pulmonary hypertension are not well understood. Using hypoxic animal models, cell and molecular biology, we obtained the first evidence that the expression of piRNA‐63076 was up‐regulated in hypoxia and was positively correlated with cell proliferation. Subsequently, we showed that acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase (Acadm), which is negatively regulated by piRNA‐63076 and interacts with Piwi proteins, was involved in hypoxic PASMC proliferation. Finally, Acadm inhibition under hypoxia was partly attributed to DNA methylation of the Acadm promoter region mediated by piRNA‐63076. Overall, these findings represent invaluable resources for better understanding the role of epigenetics in pulmonary hypertension associated with piRNAs.
Increased SIX‐1 expression promotes breast cancer metastasis by regulating lncATB‐miR‐200s‐ZEB1 axis
Authors: Zhu Lizhe , Jiang Siyuan , Yu Shibo , Liu Xiaoxu , Pu Shengyu , Xie Peiling , Chen Heyan , Liao Xiaoqin , Wang Ke , Wang Bin
Published: March 2020

Patients with advanced breast cancer (BC) showed a higher incidence of regional and distant metastases. Sine oculis homeobox homolog 1 (SIX‐1) has been confirmed to be a key tumorigenic and metastatic regulator in BC progression. Yet, molecular mechanisms behind SIX‐1‐induced BC metastases remain largely unknown. Here we found that SIX‐1 was frequently up‐regulated in BC and correlated with poor outcomes when tested in human BC tissue microarray. Then, we manipulated the expression of SIX‐1 by via shRNA‐mediated knockdown and lentivirus‐mediated overexpression. Transwell assay in vitro and lung metastases model of nude mice in vivo showed that SIX‐1 promoted BC cell invasion and migration in vitro, and facilitated metastases in vivo. Mechanistically, SIX‐1 could promote the transcription of lncATB, which exerts critical pro‐metastatic role in BC by directly binding to the miR‐200 family, especially for miR‐200c, to induce EMT and promote metastases. In conclusion, SIX‐1 exerts its pro‐metastatic role in BC through lncATB/miR‐200s axis of EMT signalling pathway and could act as an important diagnostic marker as well as a significant therapeutic target for clinically advanced BC.
Barriers to establishing shared decision‐making in childbirth: Unveiling epistemic stereotypes about women in labour
Authors: Villarmea Stella , Kelly Brenda
Published: March 2020

Rationale, aims, and objectives

The benefits for shared decision‐making (SDM) in delivery of high‐quality and personalized care are undisputed, but what is it about the dynamics of the delivery room that leads some to doubt that true SDM is possible? How difficult can it be to establish SDM as the norm when caring for a woman in labour? The discussion around SDM, autonomy, and rationality is timely and highly relevant to wider practice.

Method

The concept of a person's autonomy in decision‐making about their body and health is generally accepted and is indeed enshrined in law in many countries. This ought to lay the foundation for SDM in obstetrics. Yet, women's experience speaks to an uncomfortable truth, namely, that it is far from commonplace. We are interested in exploring this tension between the law and the practice.

Results

We examine a theory of female rationality and its application to women in labour, and juxtapose this with the view from the front line of care delivery. Is a woman in labour able to fully engage in an SDM process? In answering this question, associations in the discourses and practises around women's capacity during labour are revealed, which act as barriers, consciously or unconsciously, to establishing SDM as the norm in obstetrics and midwifery.

Conclusion(s)

The recent UN report advocating a human rights‐based approach to end mistreatment and violence against women in reproductive health services has a particular focus on childbirth and obstetric violence. This paper contributes to the recognition of obstetric violence as a human rights violation. It offers conceptual tools to diagnose the impact of gender stereotypes during childbirth and to eliminate women's discrimination in the field of reproductive health.
Associations of Social and Behavioral Determinants of Health Index with Self‐Rated Health, Functional Limitations, and Health Services Use in Older Adults
Authors: Rhee Taeho Greg , Marottoli Richard A. , Cooney Leo M. , Fortinsky Richard H.
Published: March 2020

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the cumulative risk factors of social and behavioral determinants of health (SDoH) and examine their association with self‐rated general health, functional limitations, and use of health services among US older adults.

DESIGN

Cross‐sectional analysis of the 2013‐2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

SETTING

Nationally representative health interview survey in the United States.

PARTICIPANTS

Survey respondents aged 65 or older (n = 1,306 unweighted).

MEASUREMENTS

A cumulative risk score of SDoH, developed by the National Academy of Medicine expert panel, was assessed using validated measures. Outcome variables included self‐rated general health, functional limitations (eg, activities of daily living), and use of health services (eg, usual source of care and overnight hospitalization). We quantified the cumulative risk score of SDoH in older adults and used multivariable‐adjusted logistic and Poisson regression analyses to assess the association of SDoH with self‐rated health, functional limitations, and use of health services, adjusting for other covariates.

RESULTS

About 25.7% of older adults, representative of 11.0 million people nationwide, reported having three or more cumulative SDoH risk factors. These older adults were more likely to have functional limitations (eg, activities of daily living) and less likely to report their general health as “very good” or “excellent” than those with two or fewer cumulative SDoH risk factors (P < .001 for each). Each additional cumulative SDoH risk factor was associated with increased odds of not having a usual source of care (adjusted odds ratio = 1.57; 95% confidence interval = 1.09‐2.27).

CONCLUSION

The SDoH index score may be a useful tool to predict access to care and quality of care in older adults. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:1731‐1738, 2020.
Hierarchical analysis of factors associated with hospital readmissions for coronary heart disease: A case–control study
Authors: de Albuquerque Nila Larisse Silva , de Araujo Thelma Leite , de Oliveira Lopes Marcos Venicios , Moreira Thereza Maria Magalhães
Published: March 2020

Aims and objectives

To analyse, hierarchically, factors associated with hospital readmissions for acute coronary syndrome.

Background

Hospital readmissions have risen, especially in patients with multiple comorbidities, which are most often chronic. The leading causes of hospital readmission include acute coronary syndrome, which is costly and often preventable. Determining clinical and nonclinical variables that increase the chances of readmission is important to assess and evaluate patients hospitalised for coronary heart diseases.

Design

A case–control study whose dependent variable was hospital readmission for acute coronary syndrome.

Methods

The study included 277 inpatients, of whom 132 were in their first hospitalisation and 145 had already been hospitalised for acute coronary syndrome. The independent variables for this hierarchical model were sociodemographic conditions, life habits, access to health services and physical health measures. Data were obtained by interviews, anthropometric measurements and patient records. Logistic regression analysis was performed using the stepwise technique, with Microsoft Excel and R version 3.2.3. The research was reported via strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology (STROBE).

Results

In the final hierarchical logistic model, the following risk factors were associated with readmission for acute coronary syndrome: inadequate drug therapy adherence, stress, history of smoking for 30 years or more, and the lack of use of primary healthcare services.

Conclusions

Clinical and nonclinical variables are related to hospital readmission for acute coronary syndrome and can increase the chance of readmission by up to six times.

Relevance to clinical practice

The predictive model can be used to avoid readmission for acute coronary syndrome, and it represents an advance in the prediction of the occurrence of the outcome. This implies the need for a reorientation of the network for postdischarge care in the first hospitalisation for acute coronary syndrome.
Patient‐Reported Outcomes of Metal and Acrylic Resin Removable Partial Dentures: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Almufleh Balqees , Emami Elham , Alesawy Aminah , Rodan Rania , Morris Martin , Umebayashi Mayumi , Tamimi Faleh
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Metal removable partial dentures (RPDs) are often considered long‐term treatment options for partially edentulous patients, while acrylic resin RPDs are considered interim treatments. The aim of this review was to compare metal and acrylic resin RPDs regarding patient‐reported outcomes for partially edentulous individuals.

Materials and Methods

Four databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and Web of Science) were systematically searched for observational studies and randomized controlled trials comparing patient‐reported outcomes between metal and acrylic resin RPDs. The primary outcome was patient satisfaction. Included studies were assessed for risk of bias using the Cochrane risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions tool (ROBINS‐I) and the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool for Randomized Controlled Trials. The level of evidence was evaluated using Oxford Center for Evidence‐based Medicine tool. A random‐effects model was used to analyze the data.

Results

A total of 15 studies were included in the systematic review; 10 in the meta‐analysis. The pooled effect size for patient satisfaction and oral health‐related quality of life showed no statistical significant difference between metal and acrylic resin dentures (0.22, 95% confidence interval –0.01, 0.45, p = 0.06; 1.45, 95% confidence interval –2.43, 5.33, p = 0.46, respectively). Compliance with using RPDs was significantly higher in patients with metal compared to patients with acrylic resin dentures (pooled odds ratio = 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.45, 0.73, p < 0.001). Most studies had critical to serious risk of bias and low level of evidence.

Conclusions

The reviewed studies showed that there was no significant difference between metal and acrylic resin RPDs in patient satisfaction and oral health‐related quality of life. Metal dentures were associated with higher patient compliance rates and were preferred more by patients compared to acrylic resin dentures. However, the reviewed studies had low levels of evidence and therefore, high‐quality randomized controlled trials are needed to conclusively address the question of this review.
Nonphysical Workplace Violence in a State‐Based Cohort of Education Workers*
Authors: Konda Srinivas , Tiesman Hope M. , Hendricks Scott , Grubb Paula L.
Published: March 2020

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence, identify risk factors, and assess the impact of nonphysical workplace violence (WPV) events among education workers (teachers, professionals, and support personnel).

METHODS

A cross‐sectional survey was mailed to a random sample of 6450 education workers, stratified by sex, occupation, and school location in Pennsylvania. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess risk factors.

RESULTS

Of the 2514 participants, 859 (34%) reported experiencing at least one nonphysical WPV event during the 2009‐2010 school year. Coworkers were the most common source of bullying. Most education workers responded that they did not receive an adequate response from their administration after reporting a nonphysical WPV event. Risks of nonphysical assaults increased for education workers who were female, those working in an urban school, and those in their first 3 years of working in their current school. Those assaulted were significantly likely to have low job satisfaction, find work more stressful, and have poor mental health compared to those were not assaulted.

CONCLUSIONS

Administration support for specific prevention efforts and post‐event responses that address the risk factors for nonphysical WPV are essential for creating a positive, safe work environment in schools.
Dynamic changes in circulating levels of metabolites in the portal‐drained viscera of finishing pigs receiving acute administration of l‐arginine
Authors: Yang Jianying , Tan Bi’e , He Qinghua , Yin Yulong , Wu Guoyao , Kong Xiangfeng
Published: March 2020

In this study, we examined the effects of acute intravenous administration of l‐arginine on circulating levels of metabolites in the portal‐drained viscera (PDV) of 12 barrows surgically fitted with chronic catheters in the portal vein. At day 14 post‐surgery, the pigs were fasted for 12 hr and then randomly allocated to one of three groups to receive administration of normal saline, l‐alanine [103 mg/kg body weight (BW), isonitrogenous control] or l‐arginine‐HCl (61 mg/kg BW), via the portal vein. Blood samples were obtained from the carotid artery before and at 30‐min intervals for 5 hr after the administration of saline or amino acid in order to determine metabolic profiles. The results showed that, compared with the saline treatment, arginine infusion increased plasma concentrations of insulin‐like growth factor‐I, arginine and cystine in the portal vein plasma, whereas plasma concentrations of threonine, serine, leucine and methionine were reduced. These findings indicate that increasing arginine concentrations in the portal vein alters the metabolic profile in swine, an established animal model for studying human nutrition and metabolism.
Effective dimensions of rural undergraduate training and the value of training policies for encouraging rural work
Authors: O'Sullivan Belinda G. , McGrail Matthew R.
Published: March 2020

Context

The implementation of rural undergraduate medical education can be improved by collecting national evidence about the aspects of these programmes that work well and the value of investing in national policies.

Objectives

This study aimed to explore how different durations, degree of remoteness and number of rural undergraduate medical training placements relate to working rurally, and to investigate differences after the introduction of formal national training policies that fund short‐ and long‐term rural training experiences for medical students.

Methods

A cohort of 6510 Australian‐trained doctors who completed the Medicine in Australia: Balancing Employment and Life survey recalled their participation in rural undergraduate medical training. Responses were categorised by duration, remoteness as defined by the Modified Monash Model levels 3‐4 and 4‐7 compared with 1, and total number of placements. Multivariate regression was used to test associations with working rurally in 2017, and differences between cohorts of students who graduated pre‐ and post‐2000, of which the latter were exposed to formal national training policies.

Results

Any rural undergraduate training was associated with working rurally (odds ratio [OR] 1.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.3‐1.9) with incrementally stronger associations for longer duration (>1 year: OR 3.0, 95% CI 2.3‐4.0), greater remoteness (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.5‐2.1) and three placements (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.9‐3.0) compared with none. Rural background (OR 2.6, 95% CI 2.3‐3.0) and general practice (OR 2.6, 95% CI 2.2‐2.9) were independently associated with working rurally; being female was negatively associated with rural work (OR 0.7, 95% CI 0.6‐0.8). The cohort of doctors who trained in a period when national rural training policies had been implemented included more graduates with a rural background and experience of undergraduate rural training but returned equivalent proportions of rural doctors to pre‐policy cohorts, and included proportionally more women and fewer general practitioners.

Conclusions

Rural undergraduate training should focus on multiple dimensions of duration, remoteness and number of rural undergraduate training experiences to grow the rural medical workforce. Formal national rural training policies may be an important part of the broader system for rural workforce development, but they rely on the uptake of general practice and the participation of female doctors in rural medicine.
Bacillus cereus AR156 triggers induced systemic resistance against Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 by suppressing miR472 and activating CNLs‐mediated basal immunity in Arabidopsis
Authors: Jiang Chunhao , Fan Zhihang , Li Zijie , Niu Dongdong , Li Yan , Zheng Mingzi , Wang Qi , Jin Hailing , Guo Jianhua
Published: March 2020

Small RNAs play an important role in plant innate immunity. However, their regulatory function in induced systemic resistance (ISR) triggered by plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria remains unclear. Here, using Arabidopsis as a model system, one plant endogenous small RNA, miR472, was identified as an important regulator involved in the process of Bacillus cereus AR156 ISR against Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst) DC3000. The results revealed that miR472 was down‐regulated with B. cereus AR156 treatment by comparing small RNA profiles and northern blot analysis of Arabidopsis with or without B. cereus AR156 treatment. Plants overexpressing miR472 showed higher susceptibility to Pst DC3000; by contrast, plant lines with miR472 knocked down/out showed the opposite. The transcriptome sequencing revealed thousands of differentially expressed genes in the transgenic plants. Target prediction showed that miR472 targets lots of coiled coil nucleotide‐binding site (NBS) and leucine‐rich repeat (LRR) type resistance genes and the expression of these targets was negatively correlated with the expression of miR472. In addition, transgenic plants with knocked‐out target genes exhibited decreased resistance to Pst DC3000 invasion. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR results indicated that target genes of miR472 were expressed during the process of B. cereus AR156‐triggered ISR. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the miR472‐mediated silencing pathway is an important regulatory checkpoint occurring via post‐transcriptional control of NBS‐LRR genes during B. cereus AR156‐triggered ISR in Arabidopsis.
The utility of the basophil activation test in differentiating asthmatic subjects with and without allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis
Authors: Prasad Kuruswamy Thurai , Muthu Valliappan , Sehgal Inderpaul Singh , Dhooria Sahajal , Singh Pawan , Sachdeva Man Updesh Singh , Chakrabarti Arunaloke , Aggarwal Ashutosh N. , Agarwal Ritesh
Published: March 2020

Background

Asthma with Aspergillus sensitisation (ASA) and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) are distinct clinical conditions, with different management strategies.

Objective

To determine the utility of the basophil activation test (BAT) in differentiating between asthmatic subjects with and without ABPA.

Methods

We performed the BAT using flow cytometry for the basophil activation markers CD63, CD193, and CD203c in consecutive subjects with unsensitised asthma (UA), ASA and ABPA. The BAT was performed unstimulated (baseline) and after stimulation with peanut and Aspergillus fumigatus antigens. Stimulation indices (SI) for CD63, CD193 and CD203c were compared between the study groups.

Results

We enrolled 82 (UA [n = 25], ASA [n = 25], ABPA [n = 32]) subjects. Only those subjects without peanut sensitisation on serological testing were included in further analyses (n = 50). The receiver operating characteristic analysis of SI for CD63, CD193 and CD203c for the diagnosis of ABPA vs other asthmatics (UA and ASA) showed an area under the curve of 0.577, 0.317 and 0.625, respectively. The SI CD203c at a cut‐off of 1.2 (sensitivity 50.0%, specificity 88.9%) and the SI CD63 at a cut‐off of 1.3 (sensitivity 42.9%, specificity 91.7%) also had limited utility for the diagnosis of ABPA.

Conclusion

The BAT cannot be used as a diagnostic test in distinguishing ABPA complicating asthma from ASA and UA.
Interplay between components of pupil‐linked phasic arousal and its role in driving behavioral choice in Go/No‐Go perceptual decision‐making
Authors: Schriver Brian J. , Perkins Sean M. , Sajda Paul , Wang Qi
Published: March 2020

In decision‐making tasks, neural circuits involved in different aspects of information processing may activate the central arousal system, likely through their interconnection with brainstem arousal nuclei, collectively contributing to the observed pupil‐linked phasic arousal. However, the individual components of the phasic arousal associated with different elements of information processing and their effects on behavior remain little known. In this study, we used machine learning techniques to decompose pupil‐linked phasic arousal evoked by different components of information processing in rats performing a Go/No‐Go perceptual decision‐making task. We found that phasic arousal evoked by stimulus encoding was larger for the Go stimulus than the No‐Go stimulus. For each session, the separation between distributions of phasic arousal evoked by the Go and by the No‐Go stimulus was predictive of perceptual performance. The separation between distributions of decision‐formation‐evoked arousal on correct and incorrect trials was correlated with decision criterion but not perceptual performance. When a Go stimulus was presented, the action of go was primarily determined by the phasic arousal evoked by stimulus encoding. On the contrary, when a No‐Go stimulus was presented, the action of go was determined by phasic arousal elicited by both stimulus encoding and decision formation. Drift diffusion modeling revealed that the four model parameters were better accounted for when phasic arousal elicited by both stimulus encoding and decision formation was considered. These results suggest that the interplay between phasic arousal evoked by both stimulus encoding and decision formation has important functional consequences on forming behavioral choice in perceptual decision‐making.
The Rise and Fall of the Nomad‐Dominated Empires of Eurasia
Authors: Osinsky Pavel
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this article was to integrate the multidisciplinary studies of the nomad‐dominated empires of Eurasia in the field of historical sociology. The large polities of militarized pastoralists ruled over most of Inner Eurasia for about two millennia (c. 500 BC–c. 1500 AD). By examining five such polities (the Scythians, the Huns, the Xiongnu, the Turks, and the Mongols), this study addresses four research questions: Why did such states emerge? How did it happen? How did the nomadic rulers obtain resources to uphold their power? Why did the nomad‐dominated empires have a limited life span? In conclusion, I discuss the long‐term effects of the rise and fall of the steppe empires on state formation in the whole Eurasia.
Self‐recording the skin hydration and Trans‐Epidermal Water Loss parameters: A pilot study
Authors: Cointereau‐Chardon Suzy , Caberlotto Elisa , Vicic Marco , Flament Frederic
Published: March 2020

Objective

To evaluate the reliability of data self‐recorded by subjects enrolled in a study for skin surface hydration and Trans‐Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL).

Methods

A connected device, previously described, simultaneously records both the hydration status and the TEWL on the same skin site. The effects of a Xanthane‐based gel containing low concentrations of glycerol (3% or 7%) applied on both face and forearms of Caucasian women, were self‐recorded at various times for 24 hours, outside of Research facility.

Results

In the first‐hour post application, the skin hydration and TEWL values show a sharp increase and decrease, respectively. They progressively recover their initial values 24 hours post washing, on both skin sites. A significant dose effect of glycerol (ie, 3% vs 7%) was obtained on both skin sites. The repeatability of data was found acceptable in both parameters, although more precise on arms than face, probably linked to an easier handling of the device.

Conclusion

The use of this skin measuring connected device outside of Research facility, following a training of subjects, leads to reliable data. Such approach could be extended to other connected devices.
HLA‐EMMA: A user‐friendly tool to analyse HLA class I and class II compatibility on the amino acid level
Authors: Kramer Cynthia S. M. , Koster Johan , Haasnoot Geert W. , Roelen Dave L. , Claas Frans H. J. , Heidt Sebastiaan
Published: March 2020

In renal transplantation, polymorphic amino acids on mismatched donor HLA molecules can lead to the induction of de novo donor‐specific antibodies (DSA), which are associated with inferior graft survival. To ultimately prevent de novo DSA formation without unnecessarily precluding transplants it is essential to define which polymorphic amino acid mismatches can actually induce an antibody response. To facilitate this, we developed a user‐friendly software program that establishes HLA class I and class II compatibility between donor and recipient on the amino acid level. HLA epitope mismatch algorithm (HLA‐EMMA) is a software program that compares simultaneously the HLA class I and class II amino acid sequences of the donor with the HLA amino acid sequences of the recipient and determines the polymorphic solvent accessible amino acid mismatches that are likely to be accessible to B cell receptors. Analysis can be performed for a large number of donor‐recipient pairs at once. As proof of principle, a previously described study cohort of 191 lymphocyte immunotherapy recipients was analysed with HLA‐EMMA and showed a higher frequency of DSA formation with higher number of solvent accessible amino acids mismatches. Overall, HLA‐EMMA can be used to analyse compatibility on amino acid level between donor and recipient HLA class I and class II simultaneously for large cohorts to ultimately determine the most immunogenic amino acid mismatches.
Permeability and Effective Stress in Dipping Gas Shale Formation With Bedding—Experimental Study
Authors: Chen Yufei , Jiang Changbao , Yin Guangzhi , Wojtanowicz Andrew K. , Zhang Dongming
Published: March 2020

Shale gas well deliverability and economics depend on extremely low permeability that is not only dependent on the rock bedding trend but also controlled by in situ stresses. The purpose of this study was to determine relative contributions of normal and tangential stresses with respect to the rock bedding plane on permeability evolution of shale. The study involved an analysis of the rock bedding structure, followed by triaxial testing of rock samples and theoretical modeling. Also simulated were the effects of stress-bedding and load cycling. The results showed shale permeability reduction during the stress loading process and its gradual recovery during the unloading process. Permeability change was more pronounced in response to normal stress but some effects of the tangential stresses were also observed. Moreover, a theoretical model was derived to describe permeability change with effective stress in the presence of normal and tangential stresses. The model was empirically matched with the experimental results. The assessment of relative contributions of normal and tangential stresses was quantified with the analysis of variance (ANOVA). The analysis revealed significance levels of normal stress, and two tangential stresses σt1 and σt2 on shale permeability as 81%, 5%, and 14%, respectively. An almost 20-percent contribution of tangential stress loading to permeability response indicates a need for the improvement in computing effective stress. Therefore, a new method was suggested to determine effective stress when predicting permeability evolution of shale.
Freezing Degrees of Freedom During Motor Learning: A Systematic Review
Authors: Guimarães Anderson Nascimento , Ugrinowitsch Herbert , Dascal Juliana Bayeux , Porto Alessandra Beggiato , Okazaki Victor Hugo Alves
Published: March 2020

According to Bernstein, the central nervous system solution to the human body’s enormous variation in movement choice and control when directing movement—the problem of degrees of freedom (DF)—is to freeze the number of possibilities at the beginning of motor learning. However, different strategies of freezing DF are observed in literature, and the means of selection of the control strategy during learning is not totally clear. This review investigated the possible effects of the class and objectives of the skill practiced on DF control strategies. The results of this review suggest that freezing or releasing the DF at the beginning of learning does not depend on the class (e.g., discrete skill class: football kick, dart throwing; continuous skill class: athletic march, handwriting) or objective of the skill (e.g., balance, velocity, and accuracy), in isolation. However, an interaction between these two skill elements seems to exist and influences the selection of the DF control strategy.
Detection ofMycobacterium aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisin Infected Tissues by New Species-Specific Immunohistological Procedures
Authors: Coetsier Christophe , Havaux Xavier , Mattelard Francois , Sadatte Sanaa , Cormont Francoise , Buergelt Klaus , Limbourg Bernard , Latinne Dominique , Bazin Herve , Denef Jean-Francois , Cocito Carlo
Published: March 2020

We have previously described the cloning and sequencing of a gene portion coding for the terminal part of a 34-kDa protein ofMycobacterium aviumsubsp.paratuberculosis, the etiological agent of Johne’s disease (P. Gilot, M. De Kesel, L. Machtelinckx, M. Coene, and C. Cocito, J. Bacteriol. 175:4930–4935, 1993). The recombinant polypeptide (a362) carries species-specific B-cell epitopes which do not cross-react with other mycobacterial pathogens (M. De Kesel, P. Gilot, M.-C. Misonne, M. Coene, and C. Cocito, J. Clin. Microbiol. 31:947–954, 1993). The present work describes the preparation of polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies directed against a362 and the use of these immunoglobulins for histopathological diagnosis of Johne’s disease. The new immunohistological procedures herewith detailed proved to be able to identifyM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisantigens in the intestinal tissues and lymph nodes of cattle affected by either the paucibacillary or pluribacillary form of the disease. They yielded negative responses not only with healthy animals but also with those affected by tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis). Both immunohistological procedures proved to be as sensitive as or more sensitive than Ziehl-Neelsen staining and, in addition, to be endowed with species specificity.
OCT-A characterisation of recurrent type 3 macular neovascularisation
Authors: Sacconi Riccardo , Battista Marco , Borrelli Enrico , Miere Alexandra , Corbelli Eleonora , Capuano Vittorio , Querques Lea , Souied Eric H , Bandello Francesco , Querques Giuseppe
Published: March 2020

Purpose

To investigate optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) findings in recurrent type 3 macular neovascularisation (MNV).

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, consecutive patients with type 3 MNV secondary to age-related macular degeneration underwent OCT-A at three different time points: baseline, after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment with complete resolution of the exudative signs (ie, non-exudative stage) and at the recurrence of exudation (ie, recurrence stage). Demographics and clinical findings were analysed, including OCT-A features of type 3 MNV recurrence.

Results

Twelve eyes (12 patients, mean age 78±7 years) were included. Using OCT-A, at baseline all type 3 MNVs showed the presence of detectable flow downgrowing from the deep vascular complex (DVC) to the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/sub-RPE space. 6/12 eyes (50%) showed anomalous flow under the RPE, while the other 6 eyes showed flow reaching the RPE without anomalous flow in the sub-RPE space. At the non-exudative stage (after treatment), BCVA and CMT significantly improved (p=0.004 and p=0.036), and flow inside the retinal lesions reduced; interestingly the connection to the RPE/sub-RPE space regressed. At the time of recurrence, all type 3 MNVs showed the presence of intra/sub-retinal exudation with restoration of the flow deepening from the DVC to the RPE/sub-RPE space.

Conclusions

Detectable flow deepening from the DVC to the RPE/sub-RPE space using OCT-A is mandatory to have a new exudation secondary to recurrent type 3 MNV. Early detection of type 3 MNV recurrence by OCT-A characterisation may prompt retreatment and potentially prevent progression to late stages of the disease.
The impact of scaling up cervical cancer screening and treatment services among women living with HIV in Kenya: a modelling study
Authors: Perez-Guzman Pablo Noel , Chung Michael Hoonbae , De Vuyst Hugo , Dalal Shona , Mutai Kennedy K , Muthoni Karanja , Kigen Bartilol , Kilonzo Nduku , Hallett Timothy B , Smit Mikaela
Published: March 2020

Introduction

We aimed to quantify health outcomes and programmatic implications of scaling up cervical cancer (CC) screening and treatment options for women living with HIV in care aged 18–65 in Kenya.

Methods

Mathematical model comparing from 2020 to 2040: (1) visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) and cryotherapy (Cryo); (2) VIA and Cryo or loop excision electrical procedure (LEEP), as indicated; (3) human papillomavirus (HPV)-DNA testing and Cryo or LEEP; and (4) enhanced screening technologies (either same-day HPV-DNA testing or digitally enhanced VIA) and Cryo or LEEP. Outcomes measured were annual number of CC cases, deaths, screening and treatment interventions, and engaged in care (numbers screened, treated and cured) and five yearly age-standardised incidence.

Results

All options will reduce CC cases and deaths compared with no scale-up. Options 1–3 will perform similarly, averting approximately 28 000 (33%) CC cases and 7700 (27%) deaths. That is, VIA screening would yield minimal losses to follow-up (LTFU). Conversely, LTFU associated with HPV-DNA testing will yield a lower care engagement, despite better diagnostic performance. In contrast, option 4 would maximise health outcomes, averting 43 200 (50%) CC cases and 11 800 (40%) deaths, given greater care engagement. Yearly rescreening with either option will impose a substantial burden on the health system, which could be reduced by spacing out frequency to three yearly without undermining health gains.

Conclusions

Beyond the specific choice of technologies to scale up, efficiently using available options will drive programmatic success. Addressing practical constraints around diagnostics’ performance and LTFU will be key to effectively avert CC cases and deaths.
Association between frailty and disability among rural community-dwelling older adults in Sri Lanka: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Siriwardhana Dhammika Deepani , Weerasinghe Manuj Chrishantha , Rait Greta , Scholes Shaun , Walters Kate R
Published: March 2020

Objective

We examined the association between frailty and disability in rural community-dwelling older adults in Kegalle district of Sri Lanka.

Design

A population-based cross-sectional study.

Participants

A total of 746 community-dwelling adults aged ≥60 years.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Frailty was assessed using the Fried phenotype. Disability was operationalised in terms of having one or more activity limitation/s in instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) and basic activities of daily living (BADL).

Results

The median age of the sample was (median 68; IQR 64–75) years and 56.7% were female. 15.2% were frail and 48.5% were prefrail. The prevalence of ≥1 IADL limitations was high, 84.4% among frail adults. 38.7% of frail adults reported ≥1 BADL limitations. Over half of frail older adults (58.3%) reported both ≥1 physical and cognitive IADL limitations. Being frail decreased the odds of having no IADL limitations, and was associated with a higher count of IADL limitations. No significant association was found between prefrailty and number of IADL limitations.

Conclusions

The prevalence of ≥1 IADL limitations was high among rural community-dwelling frail older adults. Findings imply the greater support and care required for rural Sri Lankan frail older adults to live independently in the community.