bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One‐year efficacy and safety of saxagliptin add‐on in patients receiving dapagliflozin and metformin
Authors: Matthaei S. , Aggarwal N. , Garcia‐Hernandez P. , Iqbal N. , Chen H. , Johnsson E. , Chin A. , Hansen L.
Published: July 2016

Aims

Greater reductions in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) with saxagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor, versus placebo add‐on in patients with type 2 diabetes who had inadequate glycaemic control with dapagliflozin 10 mg/d plus metformin were demonstrated after 24 weeks of treatment. Results over 52 weeks of treatment were assessed in this analysis.

Materials and methods

Patients (mean baseline HbA1c 7.9%) receiving open‐label dapagliflozin 10 mg/d plus metformin were randomized to double‐blind saxagliptin 5 mg/d or placebo add‐on.

Results

The adjusted mean change from baseline to week 52 in HbA1c was greater with saxagliptin than with placebo add‐on −0.38% vs 0.05%; difference −0.42% (95% confidence interval −0.64, −0.20)]. More patients achieved the HbA1c target of <7% with saxagliptin than with placebo add‐on (29% vs 13%), and fewer patients were rescued or discontinued the study for lack of glycaemic control with saxagliptin than with placebo add‐on (19% vs 28%). Reductions from baseline in body weight (≤1.5 kg) occurred in both groups. Similar proportions of patients reported ≥1 adverse event with saxagliptin (58.2%) and placebo add‐on (58.0%); no new safety signals were detected. Hypoglycaemia was infrequent in both treatment groups (≤2.5%), with no major episodes. The rate of urinary tract infections was similar in the saxagliptin and placebo add‐on groups (7.8% vs 7.4%). The incidence of genital infections was 3.3% with saxagliptin versus 6.2% with placebo add‐on.

Conclusions

Triple therapy with saxagliptin add‐on to dapagliflozin plus metformin for 52 weeks resulted in sustained improvements in glycaemic control without an increase in body weight or increased risk of hypoglycaemia.
Ultrasonographic features of pedunculated lipomas in two horses
Authors: Manso‐Díaz G. , López‐Sanromán F. J. , Jiménez J. , Ezquerra L. J. , Martín‐Cuervo M.
Published: July 2016

Small intestine strangulation by pedunculated lipomas is a common cause of acute colic in horses. However, diagnosis of this condition prior to surgery may be difficult due to the poor specificity of the clinical signs. We describe the ultrasonographic findings of 2 horses presented for acute colic with a diagnosis of strangulating lipoma confirmed in surgery. Lipomas were identified as rounded and well‐defined, homogeneous hyperechoic structures, surrounded by distended small intestine loops and peritoneal fluid. Ultrasonographic identification of lipomas should be attempted during an abdominal scan, especially in horses with evidence of small intestinal ileus and/or obstruction.
Nutrient–insecticide interactions decouple density‐dependent predation pressure in aquatic insects
Authors: Alexander Alexa C. , Culp Joseph M. , Baird Donald J. , Cessna Allan J.
Published: July 2016

Subsidy‐stress responses can decouple density‐dependent relationships between taxa within a community by increasing resources for some taxa while removing sensitive species. In this study, we examined the effects of a triad of subsidy‐stress responses on predator‐prey relationships in a benthic macroinvertebrate community under the action of insecticides, nutrients and predation pressure all at environmentally relevant doses.

We stocked 72 outdoor artificial streams with benthic invertebrates to establish a fully factorial experiment to investigate the interactive effects of two anthropogenic factors: (i) three levels of nutrient enrichment (low, moderate and high); and (ii) three doses of imidacloprid, a common agricultural insecticide, at control, low (LOEC) and lethal doses (LC50). These factors were crossed with (iii) another, biotic stressor by stocking half of the streams with a predaceous perlid stonefly at near‐natural densities.

Fifty percent of the community‐level responses were driven by the combined effect of nutrients and the insecticide. An additional 27% of the community variation was best explained by predation pressure, which we estimated as the gape width × density of Agnetina capitata at the end of the experiment.

No negative effect of imidacloprid on A. capitata was detected (P = 0.62). By the end of the 3‐week experiment, the overall gape width and predation pressure of A. capitata had more than doubled (2.1–3.7x) in all moderate nutrient streams (P < 0.01). Increased size and predation pressure of A. capitata covaried with the depressed density of all macroinvertebrate taxa as well as EPT (Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera) taxa and the mayfly Baetis in particular.

Structural equation models (SEM) highlighted that nutrient enrichment was the main driver of individual and community responses in the artificial streams. Additionally, SEM showed that density but not body size of Baetis was severely hampered by A. capitata predation, suggesting that these stoneflies selectively foraged on other species in the first 10 days of the experiment.

Our findings highlight the difficulties of assessing the risk of contaminants in aquatic communities where interacting species respond differently to subsidies and stresses.
Influence of grazing on triclosan toxicity to stream periphyton
Authors: Guasch Helena , Ricart Marta , López‐Doval Júlio , Bonnineau Chloé , Proia Lorenzo , Morin Soizic , Muñoz Isabel , Romaní Anna M. , Sabater Sergi
Published: July 2016

Interactions between emerging contaminants and other drivers of community structure and function are poorly known. We used laboratory microcosms to investigate the single and combined effects of grazing and triclosan toxicity on the structure and function of stream periphyton.

Grazing alone strongly reduced algal biomass, but also reduced oxidative stress and increased periphyton productivity and phosphorus (P) uptake capacity. This suggests that grazed algal communities can compensate for reduced biomass by enhanced growth after being released from grazing.

Triclosan exposure (11.6 ± 1.1 μg L−1) reduced the detoxification capacity and P‐uptake capacity of periphyton and altered diatom taxonomic composition. This indicates that triclosan at environmentally relevant concentrations affects the capacity of periphyton to remove dissolved nutrients and to cope with toxicant mixtures commonly occurring in streams.

Triclosan exposure and grazing pressure had negative synergistic effects on algal size‐class distribution and diatom mortality, since the effects of triclosan were higher than expected when periphyton was subject to grazing.

Periphyton exposed to toxic substances such as triclosan had a lower capacity to cope with grazing than unexposed communities, because toxicity can limit algal regrowth after release from grazing and promote the loss of less abundant species. This synergism may have important implications because grazing pressure will magnify the negative effects of toxicants on community structure and ecosystem functions such as primary production and nutrient cycling.
Basal biomarkers nestin and INPP4b identify intrinsic subtypes accurately in breast cancers that are weakly positive for oestrogen receptor
Authors: Asleh‐Aburaya Karama , Sheffield Brandon S , Kos Zuzana , Won Jennifer R , Wang Xiu Q , Gao Dongxia , Wolber Robert , Gilks C Blake , Bernard Philip S , Chia Stephen K L , Nielsen Torsten O
Published: July 2016

Aims

Recent evidence indicates that weakly positive immunohistochemical staining of oestrogen receptor (ER) is not associated reliably with a luminal subtype, with the majority reclassified as basal‐like by gene expression profile. In this study we assessed the capacity of recently identified immunohistochemical markers of basal‐like subtype not dependent upon ER status – positive expression of nestin or loss of inositol polyphosphate‐4‐phosphatase (INPP4b) – to discriminate intrinsic subtypes, focusing on clinically problematic cases with weak ER positivity.

Methods and results

Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded blocks, enriched for large proportions of ER‐negative and ER weakly positive breast cancers, were selected from two previous studies conducted in the period 2008–13 and used for (i) RNA extraction for 50‐gene subtype predictor (PAM50) intrinsic subtyping and (ii) tissue microarray construction for immunohistochemical assessment of nestin and INPP4b. Fifty‐eight cases were weakly positive for ER (Allred 3–5), among which 28 (48%) were assigned as basal‐like by PAM50 gene expression. In these 58 cases, the nestin/INPP4b panel identified 23 basal‐like cases with a positive predictive value of 87% [95% confidence interval (CI) 78–95%] and excluded luminal subtype with a negative predictive value of 95% (95% CI 88–100%). Weakly positive ER patients assigned as basal‐like by nestin/INPP4b definition demonstrated a median survival time of 45.8 months, significantly lower than 65 months among other ER weakly positive cases (P = 0.012).

Conclusions

Immunohistochemical assessment of nestin and INPP4b provides an accurate, accessible and inexpensive tool to identify basal‐like breast cancer subtype in the clinically problematic setting of weak ER positivity. This panel identifies poor prognosis patients who might need strong considerations for non‐endocrine‐based therapies.
Isosweetness concentrations of sucrose and high‐intensity sweeteners and antioxidant activity in white chocolate with functional properties
Authors: Morais Ferreira Janaína Madruga , Azevedo Bruna Marcacini , Silva Fernanda Guimarães Drummond e , Luccas Valdecir , Bolini Helena Maria André
Published: July 2016

Healthier food products are an emerging trend in consumer demand. In this context, this study aimed at producing a prebiotic white chocolate with addition of an antioxidant source [goji berry (GB)] and replacement of sucrose by high‐intensity sweeteners (sucralose and rebaudioside A). The ideal sucrose level in white chocolate was determined as 40.46% (w/w). Different concentrations of dried GB (3%, 6% and 9%, w/w) in white chocolate did not affect consumers' preference. The isosweetness concentrations of the sweeteners were 0.05% for sucralose and from 0.10% to 0.16% (w/w) for rebaudioside A in prebiotic white chocolates. However, among the prebiotic chocolates containing GB, sucralose was the best sucrose substitute. The prebiotic white chocolates with GB showed antioxidant activity up to three times higher than the samples without the dried fruit, determined by ferric reducing antioxidant power and oxygen radical absorbance capacity methods. GB contributed to enhancing the nutritional value of white chocolate.
Instructing females to wipe their vulva after bowel movements is unnecessary to prevent cystitis: a short research report
Authors: Kurata Saya , Noguchi Mitsuru , Tobu Shohei , Nanri Masaharu , Daisuke Yoko , Takagi Norito , Nakamura Koji , Uozumi Jiro
Published: July 2016

In Japan, females are often taught to wipe their vulva from front to back (FTB) after bowel movements in order to prevent cystitis. In this report, we studied whether vulva care after bowel movements in females is a risk factor for simple cystitis. Moreover, we evaluated factors affecting the method of vulva care after bowel movements in females. We recruited 274 females for this study. We analysed the correlations between the style of vulva care, restroom habits and patient characteristics. In addition, we evaluated the correlation between the incidence of cystitis and the style of vulva care after bowel movements. There were no significant differences in the presence of coexisting diseases (P = 0·766), activities of daily living (ADL's) (P = 0·203), body mass index (BMI) (P = 0·174) or restroom style (P = 0·512). However, a significantly greater number of elderly subjects reported wiping from back to front (P = 0·023). In the cystitis group, 48 females (28%) reported wiping the vulva from back to front after bowel movements. In the control group, 29 females (28%) reported wiping the vulva from FTB after bowel movements. There were no significant differences between these two groups (P = 0·988). Our data demonstrated that instructing females to wipe their vulva from FTB after bowel movements is unnecessary for the purpose of preventing cystitis.
Collaboration in Visual Culture Learning Communities: Towards a Synergy of Individual and Collective Creative Practice
Authors: Karpati Andrea , Freedman Kerry , Castro Juan Carlos , Kallio‐Tavin Mira , Heijnen Emiel
Published: July 2016

A visual culture learning community (VCLC) is an adolescent or young adult group engaged in expression and creation outside of formal institutions and without adult supervision. In the framework of an international, comparative research project executed between 2010 and 2014, members of a variety of eight self‐initiated visual culture groups ranging from manga and cosplay through contemporary art forms, fanart video, graffiti and cosplay in five urban areas (Amsterdam, Budapest, Chicago, Helsinki and Hong Kong) were studied through interview, participant observation and analysis of art works. In this article, collaborative group practices and processes in informal learning environments are presented through results of on‐site observations, interviews and analyses of creations. VCLCs are identified as inspiring, collaborative spaces of peer mentoring that enhance both visual skills and self‐esteem. Authors reveal how identity formation is interrelated with networking and knowledge sharing. Adolescents and young adults become participants of global communities of their creative genres through reinterpretation and individualisation of shared visual repertoires. In conclusion, implications for art education from the VCLC model for creative collaboration are suggested.
Ovarian differentiation and development in cachara Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum
Authors: Valentin F. N. , Batlouni S. R. , Nascimento N. F. , Silva R. C. , Manzini B. , Hilbig C. C. , Pereira‐Santos M. , Nakaghi L. S. O.
Published: July 2016

One thousand five hundred cachara or tiger shovelnose catfish Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum, obtained from induced reproduction, were used to determine the onset of ovarian differentiation and development and to record the main characteristics of this process. Samples were collected from 0 to 240 days post‐fertilization (dpf) and the results classified into stages I–XII. Ovarian formation was histologically detected for the first time when juveniles measured mean ± s.d. 51·5 ± 8·3 mm total length (LT) at 39–45 dpf (stages I–V), with intense somatic cell proliferation originating in the ovarian cavity. Both LT and age of fish had a positive correlation (P < 0·001) with ovarian differentiation, but LT showed a greater correlation (r2 = 0·95) than age (r2 = 0·85), especially during the initial stages of development. From stages VI to VII, the ovarian cavity was enlarged and undifferentiated oogonia were present. At stage VIII, small projections formed in the ovarian stroma towards the ventral region of the gonad (future ovarian lamellae) and the basal membrane and differentiated oogonia nests could be seen. At stages IX and X, the germ cells entered meiosis and folliculogenesis was completed by stages XI and XII, which can be considered late in comparison to other Siluriformes. This study has demonstrated that ovarian differentiation in P. fasciatum begins with an intense proliferation of squamous epithelial cells (somatic cells) during the early stages of development and that sex inversion protocols could, thus, be applied successfully before this period. Furthermore, the results have demonstrated that both size and age can influence gonad differentiation and development in this species.
Population structure of a whale shark Rhincodon typus aggregation in the Red Sea
Authors: Cochran J. E. M. , Hardenstine R. S. , Braun C. D. , Skomal G. B. , Thorrold S. R. , Xu K. , Genton M. G. , Berumen M. L.
Published: July 2016

The presence of whale sharks Rhincodon typus were recorded around Shib Habil, a small, coastal reef off the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, from 2010 to 2015. A total of 267 suitable photographs resulting in the identification of 136 individuals, were documented from 305 encounters. Sharks were divided evenly between the sexes with no evidence of temporal or spatial segregation. All individuals were immature based on size estimates and, for males, juvenile clasper morphology. Scars were reported for 57% of R. typus with 15% showing evidence of propeller trauma. Estimates of population size and patterns of residency were calculated by modelling the lagged identification rate. Multiple models were run simultaneously and compared using the Akaike information criterion. An open population model was found to best represent the data and estimates a daily abundance between 15 and 34 R. typus during the aggregation season, with local residence times ranging from 4 to 44 days. Residence times away from Shib Habil range from 15 to 156 days with a permanent emigration–death rate between 0·07 and 0·58 individuals year−1. These results are broadly similar to those from other aggregations of R. typus, although the observed sexual parity and integration found at this site is unique for the species and needs further study.
Is elimination of HCV possible in a country with low diagnostic rate and moderate HCV prevalence?: The case of Greece
Authors: Gountas Ilias , Sypsa Vana , Papatheodoridis George , Souliotis George , Razavi Homie , Hatzakis Angelos
Published: July 2016

Background and Aim

The treatment of hepatitis C (HCV) with interferon (IFN)‐free direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) is anticipated to change the future burden of disease. The aim of this study is to quantify the impact of IFN‐free DAAs on HCV‐related morbidity and mortality in Greece under different scenarios concerning treatment coverage and primary prevention, including the proposed by World Health Organization Global Hepatitis Strategy.

Methods

A previously described model was used to project the future disease burden up to 2030 under scenarios, which includes treatment based on the combination of pegylated‐IFN with ribavirin (base case) and scenarios using DAAs therapies.

Results

Under the base case scenario, an increase in HCV‐related morbidity and mortality is predicted in Greece (mortality in 2030: +23.6% compared with 2015). If DAAs are used with the same treatment coverage, the number of hepatocellular carcinoma cases and of liver related deaths are predicted to be lower by 4–7% compared with 2015. Under increased treatment coverage (from 2000 treated/year to approximately 5000/year in 2015–2020 and 2500/year subsequently), morbidity and mortality will decrease by 43–53% in 2030 compared with 2015. To achieve the WHO Global Hepatitis Strategy goals, a total number of 86 500 chronic hepatitis C patients will have to be treated during 2015–2030.

Conclusions

Elimination of HCV in Greece by 2030 necessitates great improvements in primary prevention, implementation of large screening programs and high treatment coverage.
The clinical symptoms of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Sveinbjornsdottir Sigurlaug
Published: July 2016

In this review, the clinical features of Parkinson's disease, both motor and non‐motor, are described in the context of the progression of the disease. Also briefly discussed are the major treatment strategies and their complications.

image

Parkinson's disease is a slowly progressing neurodegenerative disorder, causing impaired motor function with slow movements, tremor and gait and balance disturbances. A variety of non‐motor symptoms are common in Parkinson's disease. They include disturbed autonomic function with orthostatic hypotension, constipation and urinary disturbances, a variety of sleep disorders and a spectrum of neuropsychiatric symptoms. This article describes the different clinical symptoms that may occur and the clinical course of the disease.

This article is part of a special issue on Parkinson disease.
Using the Delphi method to develop nursing‐sensitive quality indicators for the NICU
Authors: Chen Lin , Huang Li‐Hua , Xing Mei‐Yuan , Feng Zhi‐Xian , Shao Le‐Wen , Zhang Mei‐Yun , Shao Rong‐Ya
Published: July 2016

Aims and objectives

To develop nursing‐sensitive quality indicators consistent with current medical practices in Chinese neonatal intensive care units.

Background

The development of nursing‐sensitive quality indicators has become a top priority in nursing management. To the best of our knowledge, there has been no objective, scientific and sensitive evaluation of the quality of neonatal intensive care unit nursing in China.

Design

A modified Delphi technique was used to seek opinions from experts about what should be used and prioritised as indicators of quality care in neonatal intensive care unit nursing.

Methods

Based on a literature review, we identified 21 indicators of nursing‐sensitive quality in the neonatal intensive care unit. Our group of 11 consultants chose 13 indicators to be discussed using the Delphi method. In October and November 2014, 39 neonatal intensive care unit experts in 18 tertiary hospitals spread across six provinces participated in two rounds of Delphi panels.

Results

Of the 13 indicators discussed, 11 were identified as indicators of nursing‐sensitive quality in the neonatal intensive care unit: rate of nosocomial infections, rate of accidental endotracheal extubation, rate of errors in medication administration, rate of treatment for pain, rate of peripheral venous extravasation, rate of compliance with handwashing techniques, incidence of pressure ulcers, incidence of noise, the bed‐to‐care ratio, the proportion of nurses with greater than five years neonatal intensive care unit experience and incidence of retinopathy.

Conclusions

The 11 neonatal intensive care unit nursing‐sensitive indicators identified by the Delphi method integrated with basic Chinese practices provide a basis for nursing management and the monitoring of nursing quality.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study identified nursing‐sensitive quality indicators for neonatal intensive care unit care that are suitable for current clinical practice in China.
Cloning, molecular characterization, and phylogeny of two evolutionary distinct glutamine synthetase isoforms in the green microalga Haematococcus pluvialis (Chlorophyceae)
Authors: Reinecke Diana L , Zarka Aliza , Leu Stefan , Boussiba Sammy
Published: July 2016

Haematococcus pluvialis (Chlorophyta) is a widely used microalga of great economic potential, yet its molecular genetics and evolution are largely unknown. We present new detailed molecular and phylogenetic analysis of two glutamine synthetase (GS) enzymes and genes (gln) under the Astaxanthin‐inducing conditions of light‐ and nitrogen‐stress. Structure analysis identified key residues and confirmed two decameric GS2 holoenzymes, a cytoplasmic enzyme, termed GS2c, and a plastidic form, termed GS2p, due to chloroplast‐transit peptides at its N‐terminus. Gene expression analysis showed dissociation of mRNA, protein, and enzyme activity levels for both GS2 under different growth conditions, indicating the strong post‐transcriptional regulation. Data‐mining identified novel and specified published gln genes from Prasinophyceae, Chlorophyta, Trebouxiophyceae, Charophyceae, Bryophyta, Lycopodiophyta, Spermatophyta, and Rhodophyta. Phylogenetic analysis found homologues to the cytosolic GS2c of H. pluvialis in all other photo‐ and non‐photosynthetic Eukaryota. The chloroplastic GS2p was restricted to Chlorophyta, Bryophyta, some Proteobacteria and Fungii; no homologues were identified in Spermatophyta or other Eukaryota. This indicates two independent prokaryotic donors for these two gln genes in H. pluvialis. Combined phylogenetic analysis of GS, chl‐b synthase, elongation factor, and light harvesting complex homologues project a newly refined model of Viridiplantae evolution. Herein, a GS1 evolved into the cytosolic GS2c and was passed on to all Eukaryota. Later, the chloroplastic GS2p entered the Archaeplastida lineage via a horizontal gene transfer at the divergence of Chlorophyta and Rhodophyta lineages. GS2p persisted in Chlorophyta and Bryophyta, but was lost during Spermatophyta evolution. These data suggest the revision of GS classification and nomenclature, and extend our understanding of the photosynthetic Eukaryota evolution.
Kraftionema allantoideum, a new genus and family of Ulotrichales (Chlorophyta) adapted for survival in high intertidal pools
Authors: Wetherbee Richard , Verbruggen Heroen
Published: July 2016

The marine, sand‐dwelling green alga Kraftionema allantoideum gen. et sp. nov. is described from clonal cultures established from samples collected in coastal, high intertidal pools from south eastern Australia. The species forms microscopic, uniseriate, unbranched, 6–8 μm wide filaments surrounded by a gelatinous capsule of varying thickness. Filaments are twisted, knotted, and variable in length from 4 to 50 cells in field samples but straighter and much longer in culture, up to 1.5 mm in length. Cell division occurs in several planes, resulting in daughter cells of varying shape, from square to rectangular to triangular, giving rise to gnarled filaments. Mature cells become allantoid, elongate with rounded ends, before dividing one time to form bicells comprised of two domed cells. Adjacent bicells separate from one another and mature filaments appeared as a string of loosely arranged sausages. A massive, single, banded chloroplast covered 3/4 of the wall circumference, and contained a single large pyrenoid encased in a starch envelope that measures 1.5–2.5 μm. Filaments were not adhesive nor did they produce specialized adhesive cells or structures. Reproduction was by fragmentation with all cells capable of producing a new filament. No motile or reproductive cells were observed. Filaments in culture grew equally well in freshwater or marine media, as well as at high salinity, and cells quickly recovered from desiccation. Phylogenetic analysis based on the nuclear‐encoded small subunit ribosomal RNA (18S) shows the early branching nature of the Kraftionema lineage among Ulotrichales, warranting its recognition as a family (Kraftionemaceae).
The role of randomization tests in vegetation boundary detection with moving split‐window analysis
Authors: Körmöczi László , Bátori Zoltán , Erdős László , Tölgyesi Csaba , Zalatnai Márta , Varró Csaba
Published: July 2016

Aim

Moving split‐window (MSW) analysis is a frequently used tool for vegetation boundary detection. The statistical test of the method is, however, not satisfactory. We aimed to identify reliable confidence limits of MSW statistics.

Methods

Multivariate transect data (representing forest, grassland and forest‐steppe habitats and some artificial data sets) were analysed using five dissimilarity functions and two randomization methods to find the most efficient procedure. We tested the normality of distribution of the dissimilarity values, and then compared the effect of plot randomization and random shift randomization on the power of the statistic. We evaluated the scale dependence of the dissimilarity/distance values and confidence limits.

Results

The distribution of expected dissimilarity values deviated from a normal distribution, and in all analyses appeared to be skewed to the right. The rate of deviation depends on the data set, on the spatial scale (window size) and on the type of randomization. Expected mean dissimilarity decreased considerably with increasing window width when plot randomization was applied, but was more balanced if random shift was used. Consequently, normalized dissimilarity values increased rapidly with window width in plot randomization, causing extreme scale dependence and false significance. The analysis with random shift distinguished between significant and non‐significant peaks at every window size.

Conclusions

We suggest the use of the random shift permutation as a new method in the MSW analysis, since it minimizes the scale dependence of standardized dissimilarity values, making a clear distinction between significant and non‐significant discontinuities.
Effects of Dietary Gamma Aminobutyric Acid on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Status, and Feeding‐related Gene Expression of Juvenile Grass Carp, Ctenopharyngodon idellus
Authors: Wu Fan , Liu Mengmei , Chen Chen , Chen Jiaojiao , Tan Qingsong
Published: July 2016

Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) is one of the inhibitory neurotransmitters that may have the ability to regulate the appetite. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary GABA, as a feed additive, on growth performance and antioxidant status of juvenile grass carp. Five isonitrogenous and isoenergetic experimental diets with graded levels of GABA (0, 20, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) were fed to grass carp juveniles (mean weight: 2.0 g) for 8 wk. The results showed that the specific growth rate (SGR) increased significantly with dietary GABA level up to the 100 mg/kg diet, and then decreased in the 200 mg/kg group (P < 0.05). The difference in SGR value between the 50 and 100 mg/kg groups was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The survival rate was not significantly affected by dietary GABA level (P > 0.05). No significant difference was observed in the whole body composition among treatments (P > 0.05). The hepatopancreatic glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity increased significantly (P < 0.05) with the GABA level, peaked in the group with GABA 100 mg/kg, and then decreased. The hepatopancreatic superoxide dismutase and total antioxidant capacity activities showed the same trend as GPx. Inversely, the hepatopancreatic malondialdehyde content decreased first and then increased with the dietary GABA level (P < 0.05). No significant differences were observed in the gene expression of neuropeptide Y (NPY), cholecystokinin, leptin, and ghrelin in the hepatopancreas among groups. However, the NPY and ghrelin mRNA expression levels in the brain increased significantly with the GABA level, peaked in the groups of 50 mg/kg, and then showed a decreasing trend. On the basis of quadratic regression analysis of SGR, the optimum content of dietary GABA in juvenile grass carp is suggested to be a 87.5 mg/kg diet.
Development of Gene‐derived SNP Markers and Their Application for the Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Wild and Cultured Populations in Sea Cucumber, Apostichopus japonicus
Authors: Dong Yu , Li Qi , Zhong Xiaoxiao , Kong Lingfeng
Published: July 2016

The Apostichopus japonicus is a valuable aquaculture species in China. In this study, 51 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified from expressed sequence tags of sea cucumber using high‐resolution melting. The average observed heterozygosity (Ho) and expected heterozygosity (He) were 0.2462 and 0.2897, respectively. Thirty‐two of these loci were used for estimating the genetic similarity and variation between the five hatchery stocks from China and two wild stocks from Japan. No significant differences in Ho or He were observed between the wild and hatchery populations. The pairwise Fst (which ranged from 0.0119 to 0.0236) and the genetic identity (which varied from 0.9802 to 0.9915) showed no significant differentiation between the wild and cultured stocks. The analysis of molecular variance indicated the source of variation was at the level of “within the populations.” The information on the genetic variation and differentiation in cultured and wild populations of A. japonicus obtained in this study is useful for setting up suitable guidelines for founding and maintaining of cultured stocks and for future genetic improvement by selective breeding.
Student Employment and Later Labour Market Success: No Evidence for Higher Employment Chances
Authors: Baert Stijn , Rotsaert Olivier , Verhaest Dieter , Omey Eddy
Published: July 2016

We investigate the impact of student work experience on later hiring chances. To completely rule out potential endogeneity, we present a field experiment in which various forms of student work experience are randomly disclosed by more than 1000 fictitious graduates applying for jobs in Belgium. Theoretical mechanisms are investigated by estimating heterogeneous treatment effects by the relevance and timing of revealed student work experience. We find that neither form of student work experience enhances initial recruitment decisions. For a number of candidate subgroups (by education level and occupation type), even an adverse effect is found.
Prediction Markets, Social Media and Information Efficiency
Authors: Williams Leighton Vaughan , Reade J. James
Published: July 2016

We consider the impact of breaking news on market prices. We measure activity on the micro‐blogging platform Twitter surrounding a unique, newsworthy and identifiable event and investigate subsequent movements of betting prices on the prominent betting exchange, Betfair. The event we use is the Bigotgate scandal, which occurred during the 2010 UK General Election campaign. We use recent developments in time series econometric methods to identify and quantify movements in both Twitter activity and Betfair prices, and compare the timings of the two. We find that the response of market prices appears somewhat sluggish and is indicative of market inefficiency, as Betfair prices adjust with a delay, and there is evidence for post‐news drift. This slow movement may be explained by the need for corroborating evidence via more traditional forms of media. Once important tweeters begin to tweet, including importantly breaking news Twitter feeds from traditional media sources, prices begin to move.
Unionization Regimes, Capacity Choice by Firms and Welfare Outcomes
Authors: Fanti Luciano , Meccheri Nicola
Published: July 2016

This paper studies how unionization regimes that differ in the degree of wage setting centralization interplay with the strategic choice of production capacity by firms and how this affects product market outcomes. When labour markets are unionized, firms typically opt for under‐capacity to dampen the unions’ wage claims. This is in contrast with the conventional choice of over‐capacity that applies when labour markets are competitive. Moreover, unless unions are distinctly oriented towards employment, the level of capacity is more efficient under centralized unionization than in a decentralized structure. Relative to more general welfare outcomes, profits are always higher under decentralization, but both consumer surplus and overall welfare can be higher under a centralized structure, depending on the unions’ preference towards wages or employment.
Treatment of Paecilomyces variotii pneumonia with posaconazole: case report and literature review
Authors: Feldman Ryan , Cockerham Leslie , Buchan Blake W. , Lu Zouyan , Huang Angela M.
Published: July 2016

The fungi Paecilomyces variotii is a potential pathogen in immunocompromised and immunocompetent patients. Their rare association with clinical disease results in scarce literature regarding susceptibility and treatment. Here, we discuss a case involving successful treatment of probable P. variotii pneumonia with posaconazole after treatment failure with voriconazole. The current literature related to antifungal susceptibility profiles, microbiological identification methods and clinical management of infections caused by this organism is also reviewed.
A randomised comparative study of 1064 nm Neodymium‐doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG) laser and topical antifungal treatment of onychomycosis
Authors: Kim Tae In , Shin Min Kyung , Jeong Ki‐Heon , Suh Dong Hye , Lee Sang Jun , Oh In‐Hwan , Lee Mu‐Hyoung
Published: July 2016

Conventional treatments for onychomycosis include oral and topical antifungal agents. Although Nd:YAG laser has been reported to be effective, controlled studies combined or compared with conventional treatments are needed. To evaluate the efficacy of 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser for onychomycosis and compare outcomes with those of topical antifungal treatment and combination therapy. Patients were randomly divided into three groups: Laser (L); laser with topical antifungal therapy (L + T); and topical antifungal treatment (T). Laser treatment consisted of three or four sessions at 4 week intervals. Outcomes were assessed clinically and mycologically. In 217 nails of 56 patients, 76% in the L group and 71.8% in the L + T group experienced clinical responses, and 15.2% and 22.5%, respectively, were cured at 24 weeks. The clinical and cure rates of both groups were significantly greater than those of the T group. Six patients of the L group developed new infections, as did one patient in the L + T group and two patients in the T group. 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser shows clinically good responses in onychomycosis. Addition of topical antifungal agent did not appear to improve efficacy, but may have protected against new infection.
Efficacy of pneumodilation in achalasia after failed Heller myotomy
Authors: Saleh C. M. G. , Ponds F. A. M. , Schijven M. P. , Smout A. J. P. M. , Bredenoord A. J.
Published: July 2016

Background

Heller myotomy is an effective treatment for the majority of achalasia patients. However, a small proportion of patients suffer from persistent or recurrent symptoms after surgery and they are usually subsequently treated with pneumodilation (PD). Data on the efficacy of PD as secondary treatment for achalasia are scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the efficacy of PD as treatment for achalasia patients suffering from persistent or recurrent symptoms after Heller myotomy.

Methods

Patients with recurrent or persistent symptoms (Eckardt score >3) after Heller myotomy were selected. Patients were treated with PD, using a graded distension protocol with balloon sizes ranging from 30 to 40 mm. After each dilation symptoms were assessed to evaluate whether a subsequent dilation with a larger balloon size was required. Patients with recurrent or persistent symptoms (Eckardt score >3) after treatment with a 40‐mm balloon were identified as failures.

Key Results

Twenty‐four patients were included in total; 15 patients with achalasia type I, seven with achalasia type II and two with achalasia type III. Median relapse time was 2.5 years after Heller myotomy (IQR: 9 years and 3 months). Three patients were not suitable for PD; one patient was morbidly obese and not fit for any form of sedation and two had a siphon‐shaped esophagus leaving 21 patients to treat. Eight patients were successfully treated with a single 30‐mm balloon dilation (median follow‐up time: 6.5 years; IQR: 7.5 years). Four patients required dilations with 30‐ and 35‐mm balloons (median follow‐up time: 11 years; IQR: 3 years). Nine patients failed on the 35‐mm balloon dilation and underwent a subsequent dilation with a 40‐mm balloon, and all failed on this balloon as well. Thus, PD was successful in 12 of the 21 treatable patients, resulting in a success rate of 57% for treatable patients or 50% for all patients. Baseline Eckardt scores were also higher in those that failed (median: 8; IQR: 2) than those that were treated successfully (median: 5.5; IQR: 2) treated (p = 0.009). Furthermore, baseline barium column height at 5 min was higher in patients with failed (median: 6 cm; IQR: 6 cm) treatment than in patients with successful (median: 2.6 cm; IQR: 4.7 cm) treatment (p = 0.016). Baseline lower esophageal sphincter pressure was not different between patients who were treated successfully (median: 11 mmHg; IQR: 5 mmHg) and those that failed on PD (median: 17.5 mmHg; IQR: 10.8 mmHg) treatment (p > 0.05). Baseline symptom pattern was also not a predictor of successful treatment. No adverse events were recorded during or after PD.

Conclusions & Inferences

Pneumodilation for recurrent symptoms after previous Heller myotomy is safe and has a modest success rate of 57%, using 30‐ and 35‐mm balloons. Patients with recurrent symptoms after PD with 35‐mm balloon are likely to also fail after subsequent dilation with a 40‐mm balloon.
Telework paradoxes and practices: the importance of the nature of work
Authors: Boell Sebastian K. , Cecez‐Kecmanovic Dubravka , Campbell John
Published: July 2016

Research on telework often focuses on the outcomes of telework, investigating if telework is ultimately a ‘good’ or a ‘bad’ thing for teleworkers and their organisations. However, findings across telework research studies are often inconclusive, requiring deeper engagement with potential explanations for contradictory and paradoxical results. This study uses virtual ethnography (netnography) to investigate naturally occurring data. By analysing online debates related to Yahoo!'s decision to ban telework for its employees, this study surfaces aspects currently overlooked by telework research. These findings suggest that the diversity of the nature of work undertaken by knowledge workers and perceived differences in the suitability of different tasks for telework are of critical importance for understanding telework from a practice perspective. However, deeper engagement with the different kinds of work activities of knowledge workers is currently missing in the telework research literature. This study therefore contributes to better understanding of telework and paradoxical findings in telework research.
The constitution of ‘third workspaces’ in between the home and the corporate office
Authors: Kingma Sytze F.
Published: July 2016

This study analyses the constitution of commercially provided work spaces situated in between the home and the corporate office. These new workspaces are enabled by digital network technologies. Theoretically, this new category of contemporary business spaces is conceptualised as ‘third workspaces’, with reference to the work of Oldenburg (1989), Soja (1996) and Lefebvre (1991 [1974]). Empirically, these workspaces are explored in two ethnographic case studies dealing with recently founded and successful third workspace providers. The grounded theory resulting from these case studies addresses the role of the material settings, the technologies, the work ideologies as well as the user practices. Overall this study offers an analytical framework for studying and managing third workspaces, and highlights the ambiguities in the constitution of third workspaces between the design and management on the one hand and the user practices on the other.
Perioperative management of pediatric en‐bloc combined heart–liver transplants: a case series review
Authors: Navaratnam Manchula , Ng Ann , Williams Glyn D. , Maeda Katsuhide , Mendoza Julianne M. , Concepcion Waldo , Hollander Seth A. , Ramamoorthy Chandra
Published: July 2016

Background

Combined heart and liver transplantation (CHLT) in the pediatric population involves a complex group of patients, many of whom have palliated congenital heart disease (CHD) involving single ventricle physiology.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to describe the perioperative management of pediatric patients undergoing CHLT at a single institution and to identify management strategies that may be used to optimize perioperative care.

Methods

We did a retrospective database review of all patients receiving CHLT at a children's hospital between 2006 and 2014. Information collected included preoperative characteristics, intraoperative management, blood transfusions, and postoperative morbidity and mortality.

Results

Five pediatric CHLTs were performed over an 8‐year period. All patients had a history of complex CHD with multiple sternotomies, three of whom had failing Fontan physiology. Patient age ranged from 7 to 23 years and weight from 29.5 to 68.5 kg. All CHLTs were performed using an en‐bloc technique where both the donor heart and liver were implanted together on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). The median operating room time was 14.25 h, median CPB time was 3.58 h, and median donor ischemia time was 4.13 h. Patients separated from CPB on dopamine, epinephrine, and milrinone infusions and two required inhaled nitric oxide. All patients received a massive intraoperative blood transfusion post CPB with amounts ranging from one to three times the patient's estimated blood volume. The patient who required the most transfusions was in decompensated heart and liver failure preoperatively. Four of the five patients received an antifibrinolytic agent as well as a procoagulant (prothrombin complex concentrate or recombinant activated Factor VII) to assist with hemostasis. There were no 30‐day thromboembolic events detected. Postoperatively the median length of mechanical ventilation, ICU stay and stay to hospital discharge was 4, 8, and 37 days, respectively. All patients are alive and free from allograft rejection at this time.

Conclusion

Combined heart and liver transplantation in the pediatric population involves a complex group of patients with unique perioperative challenges. Successful management starts with thorough preoperative planning and communication and involves strategies to deal with massive intraoperative hemorrhage and coagulopathy in addition to protecting and supporting the transplanted heart and liver and meticulous surgical technique. An integrated multidisciplinary team approach is the cornerstone for successful outcomes.
Korean Version of the painDETECT Questionnaire: A Study for Cultural Adaptation and Validation
Authors: Sung Jun Kyung , Choi Jeong‐Hyun , Jeong Jinyoung , Kim Won‐Joong , Lee Da Jeong , Lee Sang Chul , Kim Yong‐Chul , Moon Jee Youn
Published: July 2016

Objective

The purpose of this study was to adapt the painDETECT Questionnaire (PD‐Q) into a Korean version (KPD‐Q) and validate it.

Methods

A single‐center prospective observational study was performed. During the first phase of the study, linguistic adaptation was carried out to develop the KPD‐Q. During the second phase of the study, feasibility, internal consistency, discriminant validity, and concurrent validity were assessed for psychometric validation of the KPD‐Q.

Results

A total of 232 patients participated. Among them, 82 patients (35%) were classified in the neuropathic pain (NeP) group, 80 (34%) in the nociceptive pain group, and 70 (30%) in the mixed pain group. Regarding the reliability of the KPD‐Q, internal consistency for the whole scale was 0.804, as evaluated by Cronbach's alpha. Pearson's correlation between the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs scale and the KPD‐Q scores was positive and statistically significant (r = 0.74, P < 0.001). Similar to the result obtained by the original developers, a value of ≥ 19 points suggested a clear diagnosis of the presence of an NeP component with 95.4% sensitivity, 73.8% specificity, and 0.737 Youden index. We used ≤ 13 (as opposed to ≤ 12, as suggested previously) as an alternative cutoff value, which showed a sensitivity of 95.4%, specificity of 73.8%, and the Youden index of 0.691.

Conclusion

The KPD‐Q showed good psychometric and discriminant features for assessing the neuropathic component in chronic pain patients. We hope that this newly validated KPD‐Q will be recognized in Korea as a credible tool for detection of NeP and thus may be used in further international clinical research.