A randomized multiplex CRISPRi-Seq approach for the identification of critical combinations of genes.

Identifying virulence-critical genes from pathogens is often limited by functional redundancy. To rapidly interrogate the contributions of combinations of genes to a biological outcome, we have developed a ltiplex, andomized RISPR nterference equencing (MuRCiS) approach. At its center is a new method for the randomized self-assembly of CRISPR arrays from synthetic oligonucleotide pairs.

A randomized multiplex CRISPRi-Seq approach for the identification of critical combinations of genes.

Identifying virulence-critical genes from pathogens is often limited by functional redundancy. To rapidly interrogate the contributions of combinations of genes to a biological outcome, we have developed a multiplex, randomized CRISPR interference sequencing (MuRCiS) approach. At its center is a new method for the randomized self-assembly of CRISPR arrays from synthetic oligonucleotide pairs.

Family satisfaction with telemedicine follow-up after pediatric plastic surgery.

Objective: One issue faced at institutions that serve a vast area is patients' ability to travel for perioperative care. Telemedicine is an innovative way of providing care while removing the inconvenience of travel or the hindrance of cost associated with travel. We initiated telemedicine as an option for certain postoperative encounters and assessed patient family satisfaction with this novel approach.

A multiplex CRISPR interference tool for virulence gene interrogation in Legionella pneumophila.

Catalytically inactive dCas9 imposes transcriptional gene repression by sterically precluding RNA polymerase activity at a given gene to which it was directed by CRISPR (cr)RNAs. This gene silencing technology, known as CRISPR interference (CRISPRi), has been employed in various bacterial species to interrogate genes, mostly individually or in pairs. Here, we developed a multiplex CRISPRi platform in the pathogen Legionella pneumophila capable of silencing up to ten genes simultaneously.

Caspases from scleractinian coral show unique regulatory features.

Coral reefs are experiencing precipitous declines around the globe with coral diseases and temperature-induced bleaching being primary drivers of these declines. Regulation of apoptotic cell death is an important component in the coral stress response. Although cnidaria are known to contain complex apoptotic signaling pathways, similar to those in vertebrates, the mechanisms leading to cell death are largely unexplored.

School-located immunization programs: do parental preferences predict behavior?

Background: Little is known about parental attitudes regarding school-located immunization programs and their effect on program participation behaviors.

Objective: To determine the relationship between attitudes of middle school parents regarding school-located immunization programs and subsequent consent behaviors when such a program becomes available.

Methods: Primarily Hispanic, middle school parents completed questionnaires about school-located immunization programs.

Urban middle school parent perspectives: the vaccines they are willing to have their children receive using school-based immunization programs.

Purpose: With new vaccination recommendations for adolescents, school-based immunization programs become a valuable alternative site for immunization. This study seeks to determine factors associated with parental willingness to utilize school-based programs for immunizations.

Methods: A questionnaire was distributed to the parents of 11-14-year-olds attending 7 middle schools in a large, urban public school district.

At what sites are parents willing to have their 11 through 14-year-old adolescents immunized?

Introduction: Parental preferences of alternative immunization sites for adolescents must be evaluated to determine optimal delivery strategies.

Methods: Analyses were performed on data from middle-school parent questionnaires in low income areas.

Results: 1838 questionnaires were returned; 86.