bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypocholesterolemic Effects of Kenaf Seed Oil, Macroemulsion, and Nanoemulsion in High‐Cholesterol Diet Induced Rats
Authors: Cheong Ai Mun , Jessica Koh Jue Xi , Patrick Nwabueze Okechukwu , Tan Chin Ping , Nyam Kar Lin
Published: February 2018

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of kenaf seed oil (KSO), kenaf seed oil‐in‐water macroemulsion (KSOM), kenaf seed oil‐in‐water nanoemulsions (KSON), and emulsifier mixtures (EM) on serum lipid profile, liver oxidative status, and histopathological changes in high‐cholesterol fed rats. Stability and characteristic of KSOM and KSON were carried out prior to in vivo study. Forty‐two Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into 7 groups (6 rats each) and induced hypercholesterolemia by feeding high cholesterol diet (HCD) for 14 days prior to treatments. Different treatments were introduced on day 15 to 29 while supplemented with HCD and removal of HCD during treatment on day 30 to 43, except for HCD group. Body weight and serum lipid profiles were measured at 3 different points: after hypercholesterolemia was induced, on day 29, and at the end of the experiment. Relative liver weight, atherogenic index, coronary risk index, and fecal total bile acids were also determined at the end of experiment. KSON showed significantly higher stability than KSOM and FTIR exhibited good encapsulation of KSO after 1.5 years of storage. Serum total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, lipid peroxidation levels in HCD group without treatment were significantly higher compared to normal control group and all treatment groups. All samples demonstrated hypocholesterolemic effect, but KSON exhibited higher efficiency in cholesterol‐lowering properties, weight control and decreased liver fat as confirmed by histopathological evaluation. The overall results revealed that the efficacy of different treatments was in descending order of KSON, KSO, KSOM, and EM.

Practical Application

Kenaf seed oil‐in‐water nanoemulsion (KSON) has the potential to be used as a natural alternative to the synthetic hypocholesterolemic drug in the future. However, larger sample size and clinical trial are needed to confirm on this potential application. In addition, treatment with KSON was suggested to prevent cardiovascular disease and fatty liver.
Cross‐protection from hydrogen peroxide by helper microbes: the impacts on the cyanobacterium Prochlorococcus and other beneficiaries in marine communities
Authors: Zinser Erik R.
Published: February 2018

Hydrogen peroxide (HOOH) is a reactive oxygen species, derived from molecular oxygen, that is capable of damaging microbial cells. Surprisingly, the HOOH defence systems of some aerobes in the oxygenated marine environments are critically depleted, relative to model aerobes. For instance, the gene encoding catalase is absent in the numerically dominant photosynthetic cyanobacterium, Prochlorococcus. Accordingly, Prochlorococcus is highly susceptible to HOOH when exposed as pure cultures. Pure cultures do not exist in the marine environment, however. Catalase‐positive community members can remove HOOH from the seawater medium, thus lowering the threat to Prochlorococcus and any other member that likewise lacks their own catalase. This cross‐protection may constitute a loosely defined symbiosis, whereby the catalase‐positive helper cells may benefit through the acquisition of nutrients released by the beneficiaries such as Prochlorococcus. Other members of the community that may be helped by the catalase‐positive cells may include some lineages of Synechococcus – the sister genus of Prochlorococcus – as well as some lineages of SAR11 and ammonia oxidizing archaea and bacteria. The co‐occurrence of catalase‐positive and ‐negative members suggests that cross‐protection from HOOH‐mediated oxidative stress may play an important role in the construction of the marine microbial community.
The microbial contribution to reactive oxygen species dynamics in marine ecosystems
Authors: Zinser Erik R.
Published: February 2018

This review surveys the current state of knowledge of the concentrations, sources and sinks of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the ocean. Both abiotic and biotic factors contribute to ROS dynamics in seawater, and ROS can feature prominently in marine microbe–microbe interactions. The sun plays a key role in the production of ROS in the ocean, and consequently ROS concentrations are typically maximal in the sun‐exposed surface. However, microbes can also contribute significantly to extracellular ROS. Production of superoxide is widespread within the microbial community, and may benefit the producers as antimicrobial agents or perhaps more generally, as a means of nutrient scavenging. Decomposition of hydrogen peroxide is a community‐wide activity, though some members may play less significant roles in this process. The more reactive forms of ROS, singlet oxygen and the hydroxyl radical, may be less important as microbial stressors, as they tend to react with the chemicals in seawater before they can contact the cells. However, exceptions may exist for microbes attached to singlet oxygen‐generating sinking particulate matter. Extracellular ROS thus plays an important role in the ecology of marine microbes, the full extent to which we are only beginning to appreciate.
Heterogeneity‐based, multiple mechanisms in the resistance to osimertinib (AZD9291): A case report
Authors: Liu Yutao , Hao Xuezhi , Hu Xingsheng , Li Junling , Wang Yan , Wang Hongyu , Xing Puyuan , Li Weihua , Ying Jianming , Han Xiaohong , Shi Yuankai
Published: February 2018

Osimertinib is a novel, irreversible, mutant‐selective epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting EGFR mutations and the EGFR T790 mutation. Here, we report a woman with EGFR‐mutated lung adenocarcinoma who, after 23‐month treatment with gefitinib, developed the EGFR T790M mutation, which converted the T790M status from positive to negative before osimertinib treatment and developed MET amplification, leading to rapid progression on osimertinib in two months. Subsequent treatment with crizotinib and c‐Met inhibitor plus gefitinib also failed to improve the clinical outcome, suggesting the potential existence of another resistance mechanism. Our findings revealed the underlying multiple and heterogeneous mechanisms in resistance to osimertinib, suggesting combination strategies should be considered post‐osimertinib progression.
Transcriptomics of aged Drosophila motor neurons reveals a matrix metalloproteinase that impairs motor function
Authors: Azpurua Jorge , Mahoney Rebekah E. , Eaton Benjamin A.
Published: February 2018

The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) is responsible for transforming nervous system signals into motor behavior and locomotion. In the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster, an age‐dependent decline in motor function occurs, analogous to the decline experienced in mice, humans, and other mammals. The molecular and cellular underpinnings of this decline are still poorly understood. By specifically profiling the transcriptome of Drosophila motor neurons across age using custom microarrays, we found that the expression of the matrix metalloproteinase 1 (dMMP1) gene reproducibly increased in motor neurons in an age‐dependent manner. Modulation of physiological aging also altered the rate of dMMP1 expression, validating dMMP1 expression as a bona fide aging biomarker for motor neurons. Temporally controlled overexpression of dMMP1 specifically in motor neurons was sufficient to induce deficits in climbing behavior and cause a decrease in neurotransmitter release at neuromuscular synapses. These deficits were reversible if the dMMP1 expression was shut off again immediately after the onset of motor dysfunction. Additionally, repression of dMMP1 enzymatic activity via overexpression of a tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases delayed the onset of age‐dependent motor dysfunction. MMPs are required for proper tissue architecture during development. Our results support the idea that matrix metalloproteinase 1 is acting as a downstream effector of antagonistic pleiotropy in motor neurons and is necessary for proper development, but deleterious when reactivated at an advanced age.
Passive brigalow (Acacia harpophylla) woodland regeneration fails to recover floristic composition in an agricultural landscape
Authors: Le Brocque Andrew F. , Wagner Peter M.
Published: February 2018

Regrowth (secondary) vegetation is increasingly seen as an important conservation alternative where there is inadequate cover of intact remnant, and more recently, the focus of potential biodiversity offsets. However, little is known of the functioning and dynamics of regrowth in comparison to remnant vegetation. This research tests whether the floristic composition and stand structure of brigalow (Acacia harpophylla) regrowth woodlands return to that of endangered brigalow remnant woodlands and the relationships of patterns in composition and structure to environmental drivers in the agricultural landscape of southern Queensland, Australia. Thirty‐eight sites were sampled for species composition (frequency), stand structure (foliage projected cover of strata) and environmental variables (spatial/patch characteristics), encompassing ungrazed and grazed old‐growth brigalow remnants and different aged brigalow regrowth (<20, 20–30, 30–40, >40 years since clearing). There was no difference in structure observed between grazed remnant and older regrowth (>40 years); however, ungrazed old‐growth remnants were structurally different to older regrowth. Ungrazed and grazed old‐growth remnants were compositionally different to all regrowth woodlands. The proportion of surrounding vegetation, land‐use type, patch grazing intensity and soil properties were highly correlated with patterns in composition and stand structure observed across the brigalow woodlands. While the stand structure of brigalow regrowth returns to that of remnant brigalow, the distinct floristic species composition of older regrowth may indicate a longer time period is needed for equivalence or a possible alternate stable state in these highly modified agricultural landscapes. To ensure the long‐term persistence of brigalow communities, further investigation of the development trajectory of brigalow regrowth is required; however, it is critical that intact brigalow remnant vegetation remains a priority for conservation strategy and policy.
Comparison of laryngeal morbidities with modified reinforced silicone tube intubation guided over a bougie vs. a guidewire: novel assessment with voice analysis
Authors: Ponnusamy T. , Kundra P. , Rudingwa P. , Gopalakrishnan S.
Published: February 2018

Semi‐rigid flexible introducer‐guided tracheal intubation is associated with pharyngolaryngeal morbidities. We compared the practice of railroading a newly described modified reinforced silicone tracheal tube with a built‐in guide channel in its wall over a non‐kinking guidewire with railroading the same tube over a disposable bougie, with respect to pharyngolaryngeal morbidities. One hundred and twenty‐four ASA 1 and 2 adults were randomly assigned to undergo bougie‐guided (n = 62) or wire‐guided (n = 62) intubation under general anaesthesia. All patients were assessed for postoperative pharyngolaryngeal complaints. In addition, voice parameters (fundamental frequency, shimmer, jitter and harmonic noise ratio) with vowels ‘a’ and ‘i’ were analysed pre‐operatively and 24 h postoperatively. The success of first‐attempt intubation and the associated haemodynamic response were also recorded. A higher incidence of pharyngolaryngeal complaints was seen in the bougie group, 48.3%, 95%CI (35.9–60.9%) when compared with wire‐guided group 28.3%, 95%CI (18.0–40.6%), p = 0.01. Postoperatively, all the voice parameters were significantly more affected when compared with their pre‐operative value in the bougie‐guided group (p < 0.05) but not in the wire‐guided group. The success of first‐attempt intubation was similar in both groups. Wire‐guided orotracheal intubation was associated with a lower incidence of pharyngolaryngeal complaints and effect on voice when compared with bougie‐guided intubation.
Pulse oximetric assessment of anatomical vascular contribution to tissue perfusion in the gastric conduit
Authors: Irino Tomoyuki , Persson Saga , Lundell Lars , Nilsson Magnus , Tsai Jon A. , Rouvelas Ioannis
Published: February 2018

Background

Tubularized stomach is a common substitute used after oesophageal resection. The risk for gastric conduit ischemia, as well as the mechanisms and dynamics for the occurrence of deficient tissue perfusion during the critical construction of a gastric tube, is poorly understood.

Methods

Twenty‐nine patients that underwent oesophagectomy were studied with transmural pulse oximetry of different parts of the stomach, and at predefined preparatory steps during the construction of the gastric conduit.

Results

After ligation of the left gastric artery (LGA), a reduction to 83.5% in tissue saturation was observed. Three patients (10.3%) had a sustained saturation despite ligation at this point. During final preparation of the gastric tube, and after stapling of the minor curvature, saturation fell to 76.5%. Saturation increased significantly to 80.0% 2 h after the stapling, just before construction of the anastomosis (P = 0.021). There was no association between the level of oxygen saturation and the risk of anastomotic dehiscence.

Conclusion

During gastric tube construction for oesophageal replacement, conduit perfusion, measured as oxygen saturation with pulse oximetry, decreases significantly. The main cause of this reduction seems to be ligation of the LGA and the final stapling of the gastric tube. Future studies are needed to establish the clinical implications of this finding.
Paratesticular seminoma: echographic features and histological diagnosis with review of the literature
Authors: Palicelli Andrea , Neri Pierluigi , Marchioro Giansilvio , De Angelis Paolo , Bondonno Gianmarco , Ramponi Antonio
Published: February 2018

Primary extratesticular seminomas exceptionally occur in the epididymis or in the paratesticular region/spermatic cord. Some old papers included poor histological description or insufficient photographic documentation, reducing the number of faithful cases: an up‐to‐date systematic review is lacking. We report the 4th primary seminoma of the paratesticular region/spermatic cord in a 35‐year‐old man, including the first echographic description. We provide review of the literature and etiopathogenetic discussion. Ultrasound examination showed a right paratesticular, solid, heterogeneous mass (iso‐hypoechoic with hyperechoic striae; peri‐ and intra‐lesional vascular signals) with no testicular involvement: the paratesticular origin was confirmed by pathological examination. Despite careful gross examination and extensive sampling, the 6.5‐cm extratesticular tumor revealed only one microscopic focus with minimal invasion (<2 mm) of the atrophic testicular parenchyma. Intratubular germ cell neoplasia or morphologic features of a regressed testicular tumor (fibrosis/scar, necrosis, hyalinization, calcification, inflammation) were not found. Primary seminomas of the paratesticular region/spermatic cord occurred at an older mean age and presented as bigger lesions if compared to the 9 primary epididymal seminomas reported in literature. Clinical‐pathological correlation and accurate sampling are mandatory for a correct diagnosis.
Neuroprotective Mechanisms of Glucagon‐like Peptide‐1‐based Therapies in Ischaemic Stroke: A Systematic Review based on Pre‐Clinical Studies
Authors: Marlet Ida R. , Ölmestig Joakim N.E. , Vilsbøll Tina , Rungby Jørgen , Kruuse Christina
Published: February 2018

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1)‐based therapies, GLP‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors (DPP‐4Is) are widely used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Increasing evidence suggests that they may provide neuroprotection. The aim of this MiniReview was to systematically evaluate the proposed mechanism of action for GLP‐1‐based therapies in ischaemic brain damage in animals. We performed a literature search using MEDLINE, EMBASE and The Cochrane Library. GLP‐1‐based therapies administered before, during or after experimental stroke in diabetic and non‐diabetic animals were evaluated. We reviewed 27 studies comprised of 20 involving GLP‐1RAs and seven involving DPP‐4Is. Both GLP‐1RAs and DPP‐4Is affected the acute inflammatory response secondary to ischaemia by reducing inflammation, endothelial leakage and excitotoxicity. Both treatments also reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis. GLP‐1RAs significantly reduced infarct volume when administered acutely, but not later after stroke. The reported effects of DPP‐4Is on infarct volume were inconsistent. GLP‐1‐RAs reliably improved functional outcome, but the effects on cerebral blood flow were inconclusive. These neuroprotective effects were often attributed to activation of the GLP‐1 receptor, but non‐GLP‐1R‐mediated effects have also been suggested. Both GLP‐1RAs and DPP‐4Is significantly affected inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis in animal stroke models; however, data from clinical trials only report therapeutic efficacy for GLP‐1RAs. Thus, GLP‐1RA administration is the most promising treatment to pursue for patients at risk of stroke or immediately after stroke. Future studies should address acute and prophylactic treatments in stroke patients with and without diabetes.
Gender differences in the development of cardiac complications: a multicentre study in a large cohort of thalassaemia major patients to optimize the timing of cardiac follow‐up
Authors: Pepe Alessia , Gamberini Maria R. , Missere Massimiliano , Pistoia Laura , Mangione Maurizio , Cuccia Liana , Spasiano Anna , Maffei Silvia , Cadeddu Christian , Midiri Massimo , Borgna Caterina , Meloni Antonella ,   the Working Group of Gender Medicine of Italian Society of Cardiology
Published: February 2018

We assessed whether male gender was associated with a higher risk of cardiac iron accumulation and fibrosis, heart dysfunction and complications in a large, multicentre cohort of thalassaemia major (TM) patients, in order to optimize the timing in cardiac follow‐up. We considered 1711 TM patients (899 females, 31·09 ± 9·08 years), enrolled in the Myocardial Iron Overload in Thalassaemia Network. Clinical/instrumental data are recorded from birth to the first Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan. Although having a similar risk of accumulating iron, males showed a significantly higher risk of developing cardiac dysfunction, heart failure, arrhythmias and cardiac complications overall, when compared to females (P < 0·0001). Up to 20–30 years of follow‐up, the Kaplan–Meier curves for the outcomes for which the male sex was a significant prognosticator almost overlapped, whereas they clearly diverged after this period. In patients with follow‐up longer than 20 years, males exhibited a significantly higher risk of ventricular dysfunction, heart failure, arrhythmias, and cardiac complications. Female patients may have an intrinsically better tolerance for iron toxicity. International guidelines suggest annual cardiac evaluation for thalassaemia patients. It is possible that female patients can be evaluated at longer intervals, thus reducing health costs.
Advancing the management of obstructive airways diseases through translational research
Authors: Porsbjerg C. , Sverrild A. , Baines K. J. , Searles A. , Maltby S. , Foster P. S. , Brightling C. , Gibson P. G.
Published: February 2018

Obstructive airways diseases (OAD) represent a huge burden of illness world‐wide, and in spite of the development of effective therapies, significant morbidity and mortality related to asthma and COPD still remains. Over the past decade, our understanding of OAD has improved vastly, and novel treatments have evolved. This evolution is the result of successful translational research, which has connected clinical presentations of OAD and underlying disease mechanisms, thereby enabling the development of targeted treatments. The next challenge of translational research will be to position these novel treatments for OAD for optimal clinical use. At the same time, there is great potential in these treatments providing even better insights into disease mechanisms in OAD by studying the effects of blocking individual immunological pathways. To optimize this potential, there is a need to ensure that translational aspects are added to randomized clinical trials, as well as real‐world studies, but also to use other trial designs such as platform studies, which allow for simultaneous assessment of different interventions. Furthermore, demonstrating clinical impact, that is research translation, is an increasingly important component of successful translational research. This review outlines concepts of translational research, exemplifying how translational research has moved management of obstructive airways diseases into the next century, with the introduction of targeted, individualized therapy. Furthermore, the review describes how these therapies may be used as research tools to further our understanding of disease mechanisms in OAD, through translational, mechanistic studies. We underline the current need for implementing basic immunological concepts into clinical care in order to optimize the use of novel targeted treatments and to further the clinical understanding of disease mechanisms. Finally, potential barriers to adoption of novel targeted therapies into routine practice and how these may be overcome are described.
Region‐specific ischemia, neovascularization and macular oedema in treatment‐naïve proliferative diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Lange Jason , Hadziahmetovic Majda , Zhang Jingfa , Li Weiye
Published: February 2018

Importance

Region‐specific pathology in proliferative diabetic retinopathy enhances our understanding and management of this disease.

Background

To investigate non‐perfusion, neovascularization and macular oedema.

Design

A cross‐sectional, observational, non‐randomized study.

Participants

Consecutive 43 eyes of 27 treatment‐naïve patients.

Methods

Ultra‐widefield fluorescein angiography for studying specific zones, that is, far‐peripheral zone, mid‐peripheral zone and central retina (cr), and spectral‐domain optical coherence tomography for analysing thickness of macular layers.

Main Outcome Measures

Non‐perfusion index (NPI) and neovascularization index (NVI) in different zones, thickness of cr, retinal nerve fibre layer, ganglion cell layer (GCL), inner nuclear layer (INL) and outer plexiform layer in parafoveal regions.

Results

The NPI of far‐periphery and NVI of mid‐periphery were the highest by one‐way analysis of variance testing. Ischemic retina defined as high NPI in far‐periphery was significantly related to macular oedema via a binary classification approach (P < 0.05). The ischemic retina was correlated with a decreased thickness of both retinal nerve fibre and GCL (P < 0.05); macular oedema was correlated with increased INL thickness (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions and Relevance

The region‐specific correlation of NPI of far‐periphery and NVI of mid‐periphery, but not with central retinal thickness, suggests different pathogeneses of neovascularization and macular oedema. Retinal nerve fibre layer and GCL, both biomarkers of diabetic retinal neuronopathy, are associated with retinal ischemia, but not with macular oedema, suggesting that diabetic microangiopathy and neuronopathy possess distinct pathogenic pathways. The strong correlation between macular oedema and INL indicates that intracellular oedema is a determining factor of diabetic macular oedema.
Exploratory and Confirmatory Analyses in Sentence Processing: A Case Study of Number Interference in German
Authors: Nicenboim Bruno , Vasishth Shravan , Engelmann Felix , Suckow Katja
Published: February 2018

Given the replication crisis in cognitive science, it is important to consider what researchers need to do in order to report results that are reliable. We consider three changes in current practice that have the potential to deliver more realistic and robust claims. First, the planned experiment should be divided into two stages, an exploratory stage and a confirmatory stage. This clear separation allows the researcher to check whether any results found in the exploratory stage are robust. The second change is to carry out adequately powered studies. We show that this is imperative if we want to obtain realistic estimates of effects in psycholinguistics. The third change is to use Bayesian data‐analytic methods rather than frequentist ones; the Bayesian framework allows us to focus on the best estimates we can obtain of the effect, rather than rejecting a strawman null. As a case study, we investigate number interference effects in German. Number feature interference is predicted by cue‐based retrieval models of sentence processing (Van Dyke & Lewis, 2003; Vasishth & Lewis, 2006), but it has shown inconsistent results. We show that by implementing the three changes mentioned, suggestive evidence emerges that is consistent with the predicted number interference effects.
Vocabulary growth rate from preschool to school‐age years is reflected in the connectivity of the arcuate fasciculus in 14‐year‐old children
Authors: Su Mengmeng , Thiebaut de Schotten Michel , Zhao Jingjing , Song Shuang , Zhou Wei , Gong Gaolang , McBride Catherine , Ramus Franck , Shu Hua
Published: February 2018

The acquisition of language involves the functional specialization of several cortical regions. Connectivity between these brain regions may also change with the development of language. Various studies have demonstrated that the arcuate fasciculus was essential for language function. Vocabulary learning is one of the most important skills in language acquisition. In the present longitudinal study, we explored the influence of vocabulary development on the anatomical properties of the arcuate fasciculus. Seventy‐nine Chinese children participated in this study. Between age 4 and age 10, they were administered the same vocabulary task repeatedly. Following a previous study, children's vocabulary developmental trajectories were clustered into three subgroups (consistently good, catch‐up, consistently poor). At age 14, diffusion tensor imaging data were collected. UsingROI‐based tractography, the anterior, posterior and direct segments of the bilateral arcuate fasciculus were delineated in each child's native space. Group comparisons showed a significantly reduced fractional anisotropy in the left arcuate fasciculus of children in the consistently poor group, in particular in the posterior and direct segments of the arcuate fasciculus. No group differences were observed in the right hemisphere, nor in the left anterior segment. Further regression analyses showed that the rate of vocabulary development, rather than the initial vocabulary size, was a specific predictor of the left arcuate fasciculus connectivity.
No evidence of association of oxytocin polymorphisms with breastfeeding in 2 independent samples
Authors: Colodro‐Conde L. , Sánchez‐Romera J. F. , Lind P. A. , Zhu G. , Martin N. G. , Medland S. E. , Ordoñana J. R.
Published: February 2018

Oxytocin has an important function in breastfeeding via its role in the milk ejection reflex and in attachment and bonding processes. Genetic factors account for a significant part of the individual differences in breastfeeding behavior. OXT and OXTR have been proposed as gene candidates for breastfeeding. Previous studies have focused on certain single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within these genes, finding null or inconsistent results. The present study analyses the associations between a wide coverage of polymorphisms in OXT and OXTR and breastfeeding duration from 2 large and independent unselected samples comprising a total of 580 and 2112 female twin mothers from the Murcia Twin Registry (Spain) and QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute (Australia), respectively. A total of 19 SNPs in OXT and 137 in OXTR SNPs were covered in both samples. Effects of the OXT and OXTR polymorphisms on breastfeeding duration were calculated by means of linear regression controlling for age at survey time, educational level, interaction between age and educational level and principal components of genetic ancestry. The analyses were conducted independently in the 2 samples and also meta‐analyzed. Although some SNPs were associated at an alpha level of .05 with breastfeeding, they did not survive multiple testing correction. We conclude that SNPs within or nearby OXT and OXTR are unlikely to have large effects on breastfeeding behavior.
A boundary current drives synchronous growth of marine fishes across tropical and temperate latitudes
Authors: Ong Joyce J. L. , Rountrey Adam N. , Black Bryan A. , Nguyen Hoang Minh , Coulson Peter G. , Newman Stephen J. , Wakefield Corey B. , Meeuwig Jessica J. , Meekan Mark G.
Published: February 2018

Entrainment of growth patterns of multiple species to single climatic drivers can lower ecosystem resilience and increase the risk of species extinction during stressful climatic events. However, predictions of the effects of climate change on the productivity and dynamics of marine fishes are hampered by a lack of historical data on growth patterns. We use otolith biochronologies to show that the strength of a boundary current, modulated by the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation, accounted for almost half of the shared variance in annual growth patterns of five of six species of tropical and temperate marine fishes across 23° of latitude (3000 km) in Western Australia. Stronger flow during La Niña years drove increased growth of five species, whereas weaker flow during El Niño years reduced growth. Our work is the first to link the growth patterns of multiple fishes with a single oceanographic/climate phenomenon at large spatial scales and across multiple climate zones, habitat types, trophic levels and depth ranges. Extreme La Niña and El Niño events are predicted to occur more frequently in the future and these are likely to have implications for these vulnerable ecosystems, such as a limited capacity of the marine taxa to recover from stressful climatic events.
Case Report of the Safety Assessment of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Use in a Patient With Cardiac Pacemaker: To Pulse or Not to Pulse?
Authors: Wei Diana Y. , Greenwood Fiona S. , Murgatroyd Francis D. , Goadsby Peter J.
Published: February 2018

Background

Single‐pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (sTMS) is an emerging neuromodulation method reported to be useful in migraine. Despite a low propensity for side effects, some concern with its use in patients with cardiac pacemakers has been expressed.

Case

We present a patient with chronic migraine with a cardiac pacemaker, who had tried unsuccessfully several migraine preventives with either poor efficacy or tolerability. With involvement of the cardiology team, we tested the effect of sTMS on her pacemaker and found it to be a safe and effective option for her.

Conclusion

Having regard to the risk/benefit ratio of sTMS, its use in patients with disabling migraine in the presence of a cardiac pacemaker can be carefully evaluated and may represent a useful therapeutic option.
Not all forms of misbehavior are created equal: Differential personality facet–counterproductive work behavior relations
Authors: Bragg Caleb B. , Bowling Nathan A.
Published: February 2018

We examined whether four personality traits—trait aggression, trait industriousness, trait deceptiveness, and trait self‐control—were differentially related to 11 narrow‐bandwidth CWB facets: (a) property destruction, (b) inappropriate verbal actions, (c) inappropriate physical actions, (d) poor attendance, (e) poor quality work, (f) unsafe behavior, (g) theft and related behavior, (h) misuse of information, (i) misuse of time and resources, (j) alcohol use, and (k) drug use. Based on responses from 404 employed participants recruited using Mechanical Turk, we found that each narrow‐bandwidth personality trait often yielded stronger relationships with overall CWB than with narrow‐bandwidth CWB facets.
Considerations for pre‐transfusion immunohaematology testing in patients receiving the anti‐CD38 monoclonal antibody daratumumab for the treatment of multiple myeloma
Authors: Quach Hang , Benson Simon , Haysom Helen , Wilkes Anne‐Marie , Zacher Nicole , Cole‐Sinclair Merrole , Miles Prince Henry , Mollee Peter , Spencer Andrew , Joy Ho Phoebe , Harrison Simon J. , Lee Cindy , Augustson Bradley , Daly James
Published: February 2018

In recent years, the anti‐CD38 monoclonal antibody daratumumab (Darzalex; Janssen‐Cilag Pty Ltd) has been shown to be highly efficacious in relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma, with the final results of treatment in newly diagnosed patients awaited. Despite awareness of the potential interference of daratumumab in pre‐transfusion immunohaematology testing during phase I and II clinical studies, there was a degree of unpreparedness in the community upon the introduction of this drug into the clinics, particularly the impact that it has on the operational processes in hospital transfusion laboratories and timely issue of red blood cells (RBCs). Anti‐CD38 interference in pre‐transfusion immunohaematology tests is a particular problem in patients being treated with daratumumab for multiple myeloma as many will require RBC transfusions during their disease treatment. Panagglutination caused by anti‐CD38 monoclonal antibody during the indirect antiglobulin test may mask the presence of a clinically significant RBC alloantibody in the patient’s plasma during the antibody screen and identification process, which may be overlooked, particularly in urgent situations, subsequently resulting in a delayed or acute haemolytic transfusion reaction. Here, we summarise daratumumab’s effects on pre‐transfusion immunohaematology testing and its impact on clinical practice and make practical recommendations based on a consensus from medical and scientific transfusion experts and myeloma specialists on behalf of the Australian and New Zealand Society of Blood Transfusion and Myeloma Scientific Advisory Group to Myeloma Australia, respectively.
HSPA12B promotes functional recovery after ischaemic stroke through an eNOS‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Zhao Yanlin , Liu Chang , Liu Jiali , Kong Qiuyue , Mao Yu , Cheng Hao , Li Nan , Zhang Xioajin , Li Chuanfu , Li Yuehua , Liu Li , Ding Zhengnian
Published: February 2018

Stroke is the leading cause of disability worldwide. HSPA12B, a heat‐shock protein recently identified expression specifically in endothelial cells, is able to promote angiogenesis. Here, we have investigated its effects on functional recovery at chronic phase of ischaemic stroke. Ischaemic stroke was induced by 60 min. of middle cerebral artery occlusion in transgenic mice with overexpression of HSPA12B (HSPA12B Tg) and wild‐type littermates (WT). HSPA12B Tg mice demonstrated a significant higher survival rate than WT mice within 28 days post‐stroke. Significant improved neurological functions, increased spontaneous locomotor activity and decreased anxiety were detected inHSPA12B Tg mice compared with WT controls within 21 days post‐stroke. Stroke‐induced hippocampal degeneration was attenuated in HSPA12B Tg mice examined at day 28 post‐stroke. Interestingly, HSPA12B Tg mice showed enhanced peri‐infarct angiogenesis (examined 28 days post‐stroke) and hippocampal neurogenesis (examined 7 days post‐stroke), respectively, compared to WT mice. The stroke‐induced eNOS phosphorylation and TGF‐β1 expression were augmented in HSPA12B Tg mice. However, administration with eNOS inhibitor L‐NAME diminished the HSPA12B‐induced protection in neurological functional recovery and mice survival post‐stroke. The data suggest that HSPA12B promoted functional recovery and survival after stroke in an eNOS‐dependent mechanism. Targeting HSPA12B expression may have a therapeutic potential for the stroke‐evoked functional disability and mortality.
A randomized clinical trial to evaluate the stain removal efficacy of a sodium phytate dentifrice formulation
Authors: Milleman Kimberly R. , Creeth Jonathan E. , Burnett Gary R. , Milleman Jeffery L.
Published: February 2018

Objectives

Phytate is an organic, cyclic polyphosphate analogous to linear condensed polyphosphates used as stain removal agents. This study investigated stain removal efficacy of an experimental sodium phytate‐containing dentifrice compared to a reference dentifrice.

Methods

An experimental, moderate abrasivity (relative dentine abrasivity [RDA] ∼130) antisensitivity fluoride dentifrice containing sodium phytate (0.85% w/w as the hexasodium salt) (n = 111) was compared to a reference, marketed, low‐abrasivity (RDA ∼ 43), anti‐sensitivity fluoride dentifrice (n = 113), both containing 1150 ppm fluoride as sodium fluoride. Primary efficacy variables were between‐treatment differences in extrinsic dental stain of anterior teeth after 6 and 12 weeks' twice‐daily use, using Lobene stain index (MacPherson modification, MLSI) mean area (A) and intensity (I) scores. Comparisons included whole‐tooth and hard‐to‐reach areas (gingival, interproximal, body of lingual).

Results

At both 6‐ and 12‐week timepoints, MLSI (A × I) scores for total area and hard‐to‐reach areas for the experimental dentifrice were statistically significantly lower than baseline (P < .0001 for all). This was demonstrated for the reference dentifrice at 6 weeks only, for total, interproximal (P < .0001 for both), and body of lingual (P = .0395) scores. Compared with the reference, the experimental dentifrice had statistically significantly lower MLSI scores at both 6 and 12 weeks for all outcome variables including both total MLSI (A × I) and hard‐to reach areas (P < .0001 in all cases). Products were generally well‐tolerated.

Conclusions

Differences between treatments were considered clinically differentiable. Sodium phytate may therefore be a suitable additive ingredient to improve tooth stain control performance within an otherwise conventional dentifrice formulation.

Clinical Significance

Following 6 and 12 weeks brushing, clinically differentiable differences were shown in stain index scores with an experimental dentifrice containing sodium phytate compared to a reference dentifrice without sodium phytate. Sodium phytate may therefore be a suitable additive ingredient to improve tooth stain control performance within an otherwise conventional dentifrice formulation.
Words fail: Lesion‐symptom mapping of errors of omission in post‐stroke aphasia
Authors: Chen Qi , Middleton Erica , Mirman Daniel
Published: February 2018

Impaired object naming is a core deficit in post‐stroke aphasia, which can manifest as errors of commission – producing an incorrect word or a non‐word – or as errors of omission – failing to attempt to name the object. Detailed behavioural, computational, and neurological investigations of errors of commission have played a key role in the development of neurocognitive models of word production. In contrast, the neurocognitive basis of omission errors is radically underspecified despite being a prevalent phenomenon in aphasia and other populations. The prevalence of omission errors makes their neurocognitive basis important for characterizing an individual's deficits and, ideally, for personalizing treatment and evaluating treatment outcomes. This study leveraged established relationships between lesion location and errors of commission to investigate omission errors in picture naming. Omission error rates from the Philadelphia Naming Test for 123 individuals with post‐stroke aphasia were analysed using support vector regression lesion‐symptom mapping. Omission errors were most strongly associated with left frontal and mid‐anterior temporal lobe lesions. Computational model analysis further showed that omission errors were positively associated with impaired semantically driven lexical retrieval rather than phonological retrieval. These results suggest that errors of omission in aphasia predominantly arise from lexical–semantic deficits in word retrieval and selection from a competitor set.
Is Sell‐Side Research More Valuable in Bad Times?
Authors: LOH ROGER K. , STULZ RENÉ M.
Published: February 2018

Because uncertainty is high in bad times, investors find it harder to assess firm prospects and hence should value analyst output more. However, higher uncertainty makes analysts’ tasks harder, so it is unclear whether analyst output is more valuable in bad times. We find that in bad times, analyst revisions have a larger stock‐price impact, earnings forecast errors per unit of uncertainty fall, and analyst reports are more frequent and longer. The increased impact of analysts is also more pronounced for harder‐to‐value firms. These results are consistent with analysts working harder and investors relying more on analysts in bad times.
Rapidly developing multimorbidity and disability in older adults: does social background matter?
Authors: Calderón‐Larrañaga A. , Santoni G. , Wang H. X. , Welmer A. K. , Rizzuto D. , Vetrano D. L. , Marengoni A. , Fratiglioni L.
Published: February 2018

Background

Multimorbidity is among the most disabling geriatric conditions. In this study, we explored whether a rapid development of multimorbidity potentiates its impact on the functional independence of older adults, and whether different sociodemographic factors play a role beyond the rate of chronic disease accumulation.

Methods

A random sample of persons aged ≥60 years (n = 2387) from the Swedish National study on Aging and Care in Kungsholmen (SNAC‐K) was followed over 6 years. The speed of multimorbidity development was estimated as the rate of chronic disease accumulation (linear mixed models) and further dichotomized into the upper versus the three lower rate quartiles. Binomial negative mixed models were used to analyse the association between speed of multimorbidity development and disability (impaired basic and instrumental activities of daily living), expressed as the incidence rate ratio (IRR). The effect of sociodemographic factors, including sex, education, occupation and social network, was investigated.

Results

The risk of new activity impairment was higher among participants who developed multimorbidity faster (IRR 2.4, 95% CI 1.9–3.1) compared with those who accumulated diseases more slowly overtime, even after considering the baseline number of chronic conditions. Only female sex (IRR for women vs. men 1.6, 95% CI 1.2–2.0) and social network (IRR for poor vs. rich social network 1.7, 95% CI 1.3–2.2) showed an effect on disability beyond the rate of chronic disease accumulation.

Conclusions

Rapidly developing multimorbidity is a negative prognostic factor for disability. However, sociodemographic factors such as sex and social network may determine older adults' reserves of functional ability, helping them to live independently despite the rapid accumulation of chronic conditions.
The effect of Baby‐friendly status on exclusive breastfeeding in U.S. hospitals
Authors: Patterson Julie A. , Keuler Nicholas S. , Olson Beth H.
Published: February 2018

In 2014, a leading hospital accreditation agency, mandated hospitals publicly report their exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) rates. This new regulation provided an opportunity to explore differences in EBF outcomes using a standardized definition across a large hospital sample in the United States. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between population demographics and the Baby‐friendly (BF) hospital designation on EBF rates in hospitals throughout the United States. We obtained EBF rates from 121 BF hospitals and 1,608 hospitals without the BF designation. Demographic variables were computed using census tract data for the population surrounding each hospital. Relationships were explored using linear regression. We found that EBF rates were positively correlated with a bachelor's degree, log income, and those who identified as White or Asian and negatively correlated with those without college attendance, individuals living below the poverty line, and those who identified as African American or Hispanic. For all models, the BF designation of a hospital was associated with higher EBF rates (p < 0.01; effect sizes, 0.11–0.49) with the exception of the model containing log income. Using a multiple linear regression model that was allowed to contain more than one independent variable, we were able to explain 22% of the variability in EBF rates. The BF hospital designation was associated with significantly higher EBF rates independent of demographic variables. Support for hospitals to attain the BF hospital designation is a meaningful public health goal.
Association mapping reveals candidate loci for resistance and anaemic response to an emerging temperature‐driven parasitic disease in a wild salmonid fish
Authors: Ahmad F. , Debes P. V. , Palomar G. , Vasemägi A.
Published: February 2018

Even though parasitic infections are often costly or deadly for the host, we know very little which genes influence parasite susceptibility and disease severity. Proliferative kidney disease is an emerging and, at elevated water temperatures, potentially deadly disease of salmonid fishes that is caused by the myxozoan parasite Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae. By screening >7.6 K SNPs in 255 wild brown trout (Salmo trutta) and combining association mapping and Random Forest approaches, we identified several candidate genes for both the parasite resistance (inverse of relative parasite load; RPL) and the severe anaemic response to the parasite. The strongest RPL‐associated SNP mapped to a noncoding region of the congeneric Atlantic salmon (S. salar) chromosome 10, whereas the second strongest RPL‐associated SNP mapped to an intronic region of PRICKLE2 gene, which is a part of the planar cell polarity signalling pathway involved in kidney development. The top SNP associated with anaemia mapped to the intron of the putative PRKAG2 gene. The human ortholog of this gene has been associated with haematocrit and other blood‐related traits, making it a prime candidate influencing parasite‐triggered anaemia in brown trout. Our findings demonstrate the power of association mapping to pinpoint genomic regions and potential causative genes underlying climate change‐driven parasitic disease resistance and severity. Furthermore, this work illustrates the first steps towards dissecting genotype–phenotype links in a wild fish population using closely related genome information.
Vision‐Based Fatigue Crack Detection of Steel Structures Using Video Feature Tracking
Authors: Kong Xiangxiong , Li Jian
Published: February 2018

Fatigue cracks developed under repetitive loads are one of the major threats to structural integrity of steel bridges. Human inspection is the most commonly applied approach for fatigue crack detection, but is time consuming, labor intensive, and lacks reliability. In this study, we propose a computer vision‐based fatigue crack detection approach using a short video stream taken by a consumer‐grade digital camera. A feature tracking technology is applied to the video for tracking the surface motion of the monitored structure under repetitive load. Then, a crack detection and localization algorithm is established to effectively search differential features at different video frames caused by the crack opening and closing. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is validated through testing two experimental specimens with in‐plane and out‐of‐plane fatigue cracks, respectively. Results indicate that the proposed approach can robustly identify the fatigue crack, even when the crack is under ambient lighting conditions, surrounded by other crack‐like edges, covered by complex surface textures, or invisible to human eyes due to crack closure. Furthermore, our proposed approach enables accurate quantification of the crack opening under fatigue loading with submillimeter accuracy. However, due to the capacity of the camera resolution in this study, accurate detection of crack tip remains challenging.