bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glycyrrhizin mitigates radiation‐induced acute lung injury by inhibiting the HMGB1/TLR4 signalling pathway
Authors: Zheng Lei , Zhu Qian , Xu Cheng , Li Min , Li Huan , Yi Pei‐Qiang , Xu Fei‐Fei , Cao Lu , Chen Jia‐Yi
Published: October 2019

Radiation‐induced lung injury (RILI) is the major complication of thoracic radiation therapy, and no effective treatment is available. This study explored the role of high‐mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) in acute RILI and the therapeutic effect of glycyrrhizin, an inhibitor of HMGB1, on RILI. C57BL/6 mice received a 20 Gy dose of X‐ray radiation to the whole thorax with or without administration of glycyrrhizin. Severe lung inflammation was present 12 weeks after irradiation, although only a mild change was noted at 2 weeks and could be alleviated by administration of glycyrrhizin. Glycyrrhizin decreased the plasma concentrations of HMGB1 and sRAGE as well as TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐6 levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). The expression of RAGE was decreased while that of TLR4 was significantly increased at 12 weeks, but not 2 weeks, after irradiation in mouse lung tissue. In vitro, the expression of TLR4 increased in RAW 264.7 cells after conditioning with the supernatant from the irradiated MLE‐12 cells containing HMGB1 but showed no change when conditioned medium without HMGB1 was used. However, conditioned culture had no effect on RAGE expression in RAW 264.7 cells. Glycyrrhizin also inhibited the related downstream transcription factors of HMGB/TLR4, such as NF‐κB, JNK and ERK1/2, in lung tissue and RAW 264.7 cells when TLR4 was activated. In conclusion, the HMGB1/TLR4 pathway mediates RILI and can be mitigated by glycyrrhizin.
Occurrence and molecular characterization of betanodaviruses in fish and invertebrates of the Greek territorial waters
Authors: Bitchava Konstantina , Chassalevris Taxiarchis , Lampou Eirini , Athanassopoulou Fotini , Economou Vangelis , Dovas Chrysostomos I.
Published: October 2019

Betanodaviruses are small ssRNA viruses that cause viral encephalopathy and retinopathy, a severe neuropathological infectious disease in marine fish species worldwide. In the present study, the occurrence of betanodaviruses was investigated in wild and cultured populations of fishes and invertebrates of the Greek territorial waters. Betanodaviruses were detected in 35 species belonging to 21 families and 12 orders. To our knowledge, 23 of those are reported for the first time in Greek waters, while 11 of them are reported for the first time globally. The positive samples were subjected to sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of partial segments of RNA1 and RNA2 genes. Almost all the viruses circulating in Greece fell within RGNNV genotype, while reassortant viruses were detected in three samples, namely two inter‐RGNNV and one RGNNV/SJNNV. A novel unclassified Betanodavirus sequence was also identified. Most of the Greek sequence types have a restricted geographic distribution except for two RNA1 and one RNA2 sequence types that are widespread throughout the Mediterranean basin. The results of this study indicate the range of reservoirs/hosts of betanodaviruses and also their wide spread in the Greek territorial waters and reinforce the hypothesis that wild fish species transmit the virus to cultured ones and vice versa.
Electromagnetic fields assisted blanching—Effect on the dielectric and physicochemical properties of cabbage
Authors: Xu Jingjing , Wang Bo , Wang Yuchuan
Published: October 2019

Blanching is an important step in commercial processing of vegetables. The application of innovative thermal technologies (such as electromagnetic fields) in the blanching process is gradually becoming the mainstream. The dielectric materials (e.g., high‐moisture foods) can be heated by the electromagnetic fields and its heating mechanism are closely related to dielectric properties. In this study, the mechanism on dielectric properties of cabbage by electromagnetic fields assisted blanching, including radio frequency (27.12 MHz) blanching (RFB), low frequency (915 MHz) microwave (LFMB), and high frequency (2,450 MHz) microwave (HFMB) was studied and their effects on physicochemical characteristics were also investigated. Compared to hot water blanching, electromagnetic fields assisted blanching significantly improved the dielectric properties and increased nutrient retention of blanched cabbage. Higher ε′ (174.38, 74.69) and ε″ (434.82, 16.50) values of blanched cabbage were obtained through RFB at 27.12 MHz and 915 MHz. The ε′ and ε″ values of blanched cabbage at 2,450 MHz were similar by using electromagnetic fields assisted blanching. Richer volatile compounds, better flavor, higher chlorophyll content (422.77 mg/100 g dry solid) and ascorbic acid content (19.32 mg/g dry solid) were also observed in the RFB blanched cabbage. RFB could be a promising and efficient method for cabbage blanching.

Practical Applications

Electromagnetic field‐assisted blanching is superior to conventional hot water blanching in dielectric properties and products physicochemical characteristic, which can be developed into a new and highly efficient alternative pretreatment method. This study provides a theoretical basis for the electromagnetic field‐assisted blanching and quality control of cabbage.
Reply to Comment on Low‐Value Prostate Cancer Screening Among Older Men Within the Veterans Health Administration
Authors: Radomski Thomas R. , Gellad Walid F.
Published: October 2019

This letter comments on the letter by Shah and Ioffe.

Twitter handles for co‐author: @walidgellad
The role of oxytocin in regulation of appetitive behaviour, body weight and glucose homeostasis
Authors: Lawson Elizabeth A. , Olszewski Pawel K. , Weller Aron , Blevins James E.
Published: October 2019

Obesity and its associated complications have reached epidemic proportions in the USA and also worldwide, highlighting the need for new and more effective treatments. Although the neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) is well recognised for its peripheral effects on reproductive behaviour, the release of OXT from somatodendrites and axonal terminals within the central nervous system (CNS) is also implicated in the control of energy balance. In this review, we summarise historical data highlighting the effects of exogenous OXT as a short‐term regulator of food intake in a context‐specific manner and the receptor populations that may mediate these effects. We also describe what is known about the physiological role of endogenous OXT in the control of energy balance and whether serum and brain levels of OXT relate to obesity on a consistent basis across animal models and humans with obesity. We describe recent data on the effectiveness of chronic CNS administration of OXT to decrease food intake and weight gain or to elicit weight loss in diet‐induced obese (DIO) and genetically obese mice and rats. Of clinical importance is the finding that chronic central and peripheral OXT treatments both evoke weight loss in obese animal models with impaired leptin signalling at doses that are not associated with visceral illness, tachyphylaxis or adverse cardiovascular effects. Moreover, these results have been largely recapitulated following chronic s.c. or intranasal treatment in DIO non‐human primates (rhesus monkeys) and obese humans, respectively. We also identify plausible mechanisms that contribute to the effects of OXT on body weight and glucose homeostasis in rodents, non‐human primates and humans. We conclude by describing the ongoing challenges that remain before OXT‐based therapeutics can be used as a long‐term strategy to treat obesity in humans.
Ift88 is involved in mandibular development
Authors: Kitamura Atsushi , Kawasaki Maiko , Kawasaki Katsushige , Meguro Fumiya , Yamada Akane , Nagai Takahiro , Kodama Yasumitsu , Trakanant Supaluk , Sharpe Paul T. , Maeda Takeyasu , Takagi Ritsuo , Ohazama Atsushi
Published: October 2019

The mandible is a crucial organ in both clinical and biological fields due to the high frequency of congenital anomalies and the significant morphological changes during evolution. Primary cilia play a critical role in many biological processes, including the determination of left/right axis patterning, the regulation of signaling pathways, and the formation of bone and cartilage. Perturbations in the function of primary cilia are known to cause a wide spectrum of human diseases: the ciliopathies. Craniofacial dysmorphologies, including mandibular deformity, are often seen in patients with ciliopathies. Mandibular development is characterized by chondrogenesis and osteogenesis; however, the role of primary cilia in mandibular development is not fully understood. To address this question, we generated mice with mesenchymal deletions of the ciliary protein, Ift88 (Ift88fl/fl;Wnt1Cre). Ift88fl/fl;Wnt1Cre mice showed ectopic mandibular bone formation, whereas Ift88 mutant mandible was slightly shortened. Meckel's cartilage was modestly expanded in Ift88fl/fl;Wnt1Cre mice. The downregulation of Hh signaling was found in most of the mesenchyme of Ift88 mutant mandible. However, mice with a mesenchymal deletion of an essential molecule for Hh signaling activity, Smo (Smofl/fl;Wnt1Cre), showed only ectopic mandibular formation, whereas Smo mutant mandible was significantly shortened. Ift88 is thus involved in chondrogenesis and osteogenesis during mandibular development, partially through regulating Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling.
Influence of multi‐enzyme preparation supplemented with sodium butyrate on growth performance blood profiles and economic benefit of growing rabbits
Authors: El‐Aziz Ayman Hassan Abd , El‐Kasrawy Nagwa Ibrahim , Abo Ghanima Mahmoud Mahmoud , Alsenosy Abd El‐Wahab Abd Elmohsen , Raza Sayed Haidar Abbas , Khan Samiullah , Memon Sameeullah , Khan Rajwali , Ullah Irfan
Published: October 2019

The present study was carried out to explore the impacts of dietary supplementation of enzyme mixture with sodium butyrate on the growth performance, carcass traits, blood profile and economic benefit in two breeds of weanling rabbits adapted to survive in Egypt (New Zealand White and Rex). One‐hundred and twenty weaned male rabbits (New Zealand White and Rex) of 6 weeks of age and 770.5 ± 20 g body weight were allotted randomly into four groups in a factorial arrangement. The obtained results indicated that there were non‐significant differences in all growth performance traits, blood profile and economic parameters due to the breed effect. However, there were significant differences in most of carcass traits due to the breed effect except total giblets and New Zealand White breed showed the highest value of these parameters including dressing % (p < .01), forequarter and loin % (p < .001) and hindquarter % (p < .003) compared with Rex breed counterparts. The effect of the treatment and its interaction with the breed significantly (p < .05) improved body weight gain, feed consumption and carcass traits (percentage of dressing, forequarter, hind quarter and lion). However, final body weight and feed conversion ratio were not significantly influenced. Supplementing a diet with treatment significantly decreased blood triglycerides, cholesterol and the ratio between albumin and globulin (A/G ratio), while increased blood total protein and globulin. Although higher feed cost and total costs in treated groups than control ones in each breed, they showed higher total return and net return. Rex non‐treated rabbit breed showed the lowest profitability measures compared with other groups. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of multi‐enzyme with sodium butyrate is highly recommended in growing rabbits due to their beneficial effects on the growth performance and profitability.
Sink trap: duckweed and dye attractant reduce mosquito populations
Authors: Cuthbert Ross N. , Coughlan Neil E. , Dick Jaimie T. A. , Callaghan Amanda
Published: October 2019

Duckweeds, such as Lemna minor Linnaeus (Alismatales: Lemnaceae), are common in aquatic habitats and have been suggested to reduce larval mosquito survivorship via mechanical and chemical effects. Furthermore, pond dyes are used increasingly in aquatic habitats to enhance their aesthetics, although they have been shown to attract mosquito oviposition. The present study examined the coupled effects of L. minor and black pond dye on the oviposition selectivity of Culex pipiens Linnaeus (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes in a series of laboratory choice tests. Subsequently, using outdoor mesocosms, the combined influence of duckweed and pond dye on mosquito abundances in aquatic habitats was quantified. Mosquitoes were strongly attracted to duckweed, and oviposited significantly greater numbers of egg rafts in duckweed‐treated water compared with untreated controls, even when the duckweed was ground. The presence of pond dye interacted with the duckweed and further enhanced positive selectivity towards duckweed‐treated water. The presence of duckweed caused significant and sustained reductions in larval mosquito numbers, whereas the relative effects of dye were not evident. The use of floating aquatic plants such as duckweed, combined with dye, may help reduce mosquito populations via the establishment of population sinks, characterized by high rates of oviposition coupled with high levels of larval mortality.
Stem length, not climate, controls vessel diameter in two trees species across a sharp precipitation gradient
Authors: Fajardo Alex , Martínez‐Pérez Cecilia , Cervantes‐Alcayde María Angélica , Olson Mark E.
Published: October 2019

Variation in xylem conduit diameter traditionally has been explained by climate, whereas other evidence suggests that tree height is the main driver of conduit diameter. The effect of climate versus stem length on vessel diameter was tested in two tree species (Embothrium coccineum, Nothofagus antarctica) that both span an exceptionally wide precipitation gradient (2300–500 mm).

To see whether, when taking stem length into account, plants in wetter areas had wider vessels, not only the scaling of vessel diameter at the stem base across individuals of different heights, but also the tip‐to‐base scaling along individuals of similar heights across sites were examined.

Within each species, plants of similar heights had similar mean vessel diameters and similar tip‐to‐base widening of vessel diameter, regardless of climate, with the slopes and intercepts of the vessel diameter–stem length relationship remaining invariant within species across climates.

This study focusing on within‐species variation––thus, avoiding noise associated with the great morphological variation across species––showed unequivocally that plant size, not climate, is the main driver of variation in vessel diameter. Therefore, to the extent that climate selects for differing vessel diameters, it will inevitably also affect plant height.
Ovarian hormones: a long overlooked but critical contributor to cognitive brain structures and function
Authors: Beltz Adriene M. , Moser Jason S.
Published: October 2019

Cognitive neuroscience research has traditionally overlooked half of the population. Arguing that variability in ovarian hormones confounds empirical findings, girls and women have been excluded from research for decades. But times are changing. This review summarizes historical trends that have led to a knowledge gap in the role of ovarian hormones in neuroscience, synthesizes recent findings on ovarian hormone contributions to cognitive brain structures and function, and highlights areas ripe for future work. This is accomplished by reviewing research that has leveraged natural experiments in humans across the life span that focus on puberty, the menstrual cycle, hormonal contraceptive use, menopause, and menopausal hormone therapy. Although findings must be considered in light of study designs (e.g., sample characteristics and group comparisons versus randomized crossover trials), across natural experiments there is consistent evidence for associations of estradiol with cortical thickness, especially in frontal regions, and hippocampal volumes, as well as with frontal regions during cognitive processing. There are also emerging investigations of resting state connectivity and progesterone along with exciting opportunities for future work, particularly concerning biopsychosocial moderators of and individual differences in effects in novel natural experiments. Thus, delineating complex ovarian hormone contributions to cognitive brain structures and function will advance neuroscience.
Consumer movement dynamics as hidden drivers of stream habitat structure: suckers as ecosystem engineers on the night shift
Authors: Booth Michael T. , Hairston Nelson G. , Flecker Alexander S.
Published: October 2019

Ecosystem engineering can control the spatial and temporal distribution of resources and movement by engineering organisms within an ecosystem can mobilize resources across boundaries and distribute engineering effects. Movement patterns of fishes can cause physical changes to aquatic habitats though nesting or feeding, both of which often vary in space and time. Here we present evidence of ecosystem engineering by the Sonora sucker Catostomus insignis, a dominant fish in streams of the southwestern United States, and show how cryptic nocturnal movement patterns and bioturbation activities control heterogeneity in benthic substrates, and in sediment and carbon export. Sonora suckers exhibit distinct diel movement patterns, spending daylight hours in refuge habitats (typically deep pools) while moving into shallow habitats at night to feed. Feeding by suckers creates substantial disturbance in soft sediments that are patchy in space and time. These disturbances moved up to 2.4 × 104 cm3 of sediment per square meter per week in locations that are up to hundreds of meters away from sucker daytime refuges. The diel cycles in feeding activity (i.e. nocturnal digging in benthic substrates) caused nighttime pulses in suspended sediment that comprised up to 32% of the daily suspended load and organic matter transport of a stream reach. During the daytime, this particulate transport settles in habitats beyond the location of the initial disturbance, thus redistributing both sediment and organic matter. Our data indicate that cryptic movement by ecosystem engineers can distribute their effects in space and time generating heterogeneity in resources and suggest that habitat modifications restricting consumer movement may alter the impact of engineering activities.
Feasibility of autism‐focused public speech training using a simple virtual audience for autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Kumazaki Hirokazu , Muramatsu Taro , Kobayashi Kazuki , Watanabe Tetsuyou , Terada Kazunori , Higashida Haruhiro , Yuhi Teruko , Mimura Masaru , Kikuchi Mitsuru
Published: October 2019

Aim

Public speaking seems to be one of the most anxiety‐provoking situations for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, there are few evidence‐based interventions. We developed Autism‐Focused Public Speech Training using Simple Virtual Audiences (APSV), which differs from a general virtual audience in terms of its simple facial expressions and emphasis on the importance of the eyes. The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of APSV as an educational method for individuals with ASD.

Methods

Fifteen male individuals with ASD were randomly assigned to two groups: one group received APSV (n = 8), and the other group (n = 7) received independent study (IS). From Days 2 to 6, participants in the APSV and IS groups were encouraged to read and answer questions often asked in actual public speaking events. Participants in the APSV study group performed this activity in front of the APSV system, while those in the IS group performed in an empty room. Before and after the intervention (Days 1 and 7), the participants in the two groups had a mock public speaking experience in front of 10 people for approximately 10 min.

Results

After the training sessions, the participants’ self‐confidence had improved and salivary cortisol levels were significantly decreased in the APSV group as compared to those in the IS group. APSV improved self‐confidence and decreased public speaking stress in individuals with ASD.

Conclusion

APSV appears to be useful in improving self‐confidence and decreasing public speaking stress in individuals with ASD.
Application to soil of disinfectants through irrigation reduces Verticillium dahliae in the soil and verticillium wilt of olive
Authors: Gómez‐Gálvez F. J. , Vega‐Macías V. , Hidalgo-Moya J. C. , Hidalgo‐Moya J. J. , Rodríguez‐Jurado D.
Published: October 2019

The application of disinfectants through drip irrigation could be a feasible practice against verticillium wilt (Verticillium dahliae) of olive. OX‐VIRIN (activated peroxide) and OX‐AGUA AL25 (quaternary ammonium compounds) are two disinfectants that have shown efficacy against V. dahliae in irrigation water and potential for reducing the disease in young olive plants. In this work, various post‐planting application strategies incorporating OX‐VIRIN (once a month, or twice a month on alternate or successive weeks) or OX‐AGUA AL25 (once a month, or twice a month on alternate weeks) were assessed for their effect on V. dahliae in soil, disease in olive trees, and olive yield, in a 2‐year pot‐experiment under natural environmental conditions. The disinfectants were injected via metering pumps into a drip irrigation system that irrigated olive trees planted in V. dahliae‐inoculated soil. All the application strategies significantly reduced the total inoculum density in soil compared to controls with no disinfectants and noninoculated soil. The microsclerotia density was also significantly reduced in disinfested soils by 73.6–86.8%, depending on the strategy. The symptoms and infection incidence were always lower in treatments subjected to disinfestation. The treatment with OX‐AGUA AL25 applied twice a month on alternate weeks most reduced the symptoms (by 53.0%) and colonization index (by 70.8%) with respect to untreated water control. This soil disinfestation also significantly strengthened the symptom remission. Tree growth and production were negatively affected by soil inoculation (reduced by 45.6% and 88.7%, respectively), but not so by disinfectants, which even relieved the reduction in inoculated soils, especially when OX‐AGUA AL25 was applied.
Interest Rate Pass‐through in Malawi: Implications for the Effectiveness of Monetary Policy
Authors: Chiumia Austin , Palamuleni Arnold
Published: October 2019

This study investigates the interest rate pass‐through in Malawi and its implications on monetary policy effectiveness. Using the cost‐of‐funds approach and monthly data from 2009 to 2015, an autoregressive distributed lag model is fitted. Results show that there is a near complete pass‐through to the lending rate but not the savings rate. The magnitude of the pass‐through is relatively higher under smaller banks. The results suggest that the structure of the banking industry matters. Market power is important in understanding the variation in lending and savings rates across banks. Overall, short‐term rates as operating targets are consistent with inflation targeting in Malawi.
The prevalence of young carers – a standardised survey amongst school students (KiFam‐study)
Authors: Metzing Sabine , Ostermann Thomas , Robens Sibylle , Galatsch Michael
Published: October 2019

Background

Children and adolescents who provide care, assistance or support for a chronically ill family member are called young carers. While there is a growing body of research about their specific situation, needs and impact of caring, only very few studies provide information on prevalence rates.

Objectives

The aim was to provide prevalence data for young carers in Germany, and to describe and quantify the nature and extent of their help.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Settings

Data collection took place between 2016 and 2017 in 44 secondary schools (fifth to 13th grade) in North Rhine‐Westphalia, Germany.

Participants

A total of 6313 students aged from 10 to 22 years participated in this study. They represent 0.5% of the basic population.

Methods

Based on the results of a preliminary qualitative study, a standardised electronic questionnaire was developed, which comprised four subject areas: socio‐demographic information, general daily aids, health‐related quality of life and chronic illness within the family. Statistical analyses included chi‐square tests for nominal data and univariate analyses of variance for metrical data together with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

19.6% (n = 1238) of all respondents state that someone in their family needs help due to a chronic illness. Nevertheless, not all of them are involved in caring activities. The prevalence of those defined as young carers in this study is 6.1% (n = 383), 64% are girls. They take on a wide range of activities. In addition to domestic work, they help their ill relatives with mobility, dressing and undressing, medication, feeding, personal hygiene and with intimate care.

Conclusions

The data provide a good insight into the situation of young carers. The prevalence rate is higher than expected. It refers to the social relevance of this topic and the need for further investigations.
A hermeneutic literature review to conceptualise altruism as a value in nursing
Authors: van der Wath Annatjie , van Wyk Neltjie
Published: October 2019

Background

Discussions on ethics of care are needed to shape the identity of nurses and nursing. In light of the discourses surrounding nursing and altruism, nurses should initiate research on altruism and nursing.

Aim

The purpose of this literature review was to explore the meaning of altruism as a value in nursing.

Review methods

A hermeneutic approach, using a circular framework, was followed to search for literature, review and understand the text.

Results

The conceptualisation of altruism as a value in nursing care in this review strives to describe what altruism is; in what situations does it appear; for what purpose is it used; and how is it practiced.

Conclusion

Altruism enables nurses to tolerate difficult situations and motivates them to sacrifice themselves and do what is best for the patient, especially when patients are compromised in their ability to care for themselves.
Traumatic childbirth experiences: practice‐based implications for maternity care professionals from the woman's perspective
Authors: Koster Diana , Romijn Chantal , Sakko Elvira , Stam Catelijne , Steenhuis Nienke , de Vries Daniëlle , van Willigen Ilze , Fontein‐Kuipers Yvonne
Published: October 2019

Objective

To explore women's traumatic childbirth experiences in order to make maternity care professionals more aware of women's intrapartum care needs.

Method

A qualitative exploratory study with a constant comparison/grounded theory design was performed. Thirty‐six interviews were conducted with women who had given birth in a Dutch birth setting.

Findings

Three themes, playing a profound role in the occurrence of traumatic birth experiences, emerged: (i) lack of information and consent – maternity care professionals' unilateral decision making during intrapartum care, lacking informed‐consent. (ii) feeling excluded – women's mal‐adaptive response to the healthcare professionals's one‐sided decision making, leaving women feeling distant and estranged from the childbirth event and the experience. (iii) discrepancies – inconsistency between women's expectations and the reality of labour and birth – on an intrapersonal level.

Conclusion

Women's intrapartum care needs cohere with the concept of woman‐centred care, including personalised care and reflecting humanising values. Care should include informed consent and shared decision‐making. Maternity care professionals need to continuously evaluate whether the woman is consistently part of her own childbearing process. Maternity care professionals should maintain an ongoing dialogue with the woman, including women's internalised ideas of birth.
Mannose‐capped lipoarabinomannan‐induced B10 cells decrease severity of dextran sodium sulphate‐induced inflammatory bowel disease in mice
Authors: Yuan Chun-Hui , Li Xin , Luo Liang , Wang Ya-Ping , Zhang Dong-Li , Zhou Kai‐Liang , Zhang Xiao‐Lian , Pan Qin
Published: October 2019

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, non‐specific, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that mainly consists of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. However, the aetiology and pathogenesis of IBD are still unclear. B10 (IL‐10 producing regulatory B) cells, a subset of regulatory B cells, are known to contribute to intestinal homeostasis and the aberrant frequency of B10 cells is associated with IBD. We have recently reported that B10 cells can be induced by ManLAM (mannose‐capped lipoarabinomannan), a major cell‐wall lipoglycan of M tb (Mycobacterium tuberculosis). In the current study, the ManLAM‐induced B10 cells were adoptively transferred into IL(interleukin)‐10−/− mice and the roles of ManLAM‐induced B10 cells were investigated in DSS (dextran sodium sulphate)‐induced IBD model. ManLAM‐induced B10 cells decrease colitis severity in the mice. The B10 cells downregulate Th1 polarization in spleen and MLNs (mesenteric lymph nodes) of DSS‐treated mice. These results suggest that IL‐10 production by ManLAM‐treated B cells contributes to keeping the balance between CD4+ T cell subsets and protect mice from DSS‐induced IBD.
Examining Job Postings in Sport Management Academia
Authors: Lubisco Robyn , Birren Genevieve F.E. , Vooris Ryan
Published: October 2019

The purpose of this study was to examine sport management faculty job postings to determine the type of positions available, skills and experience sought, and the classification of the institution advertising the employment opportunity. This study found that (a) there was an emphasis on teaching experience at less research-intensive schools where teaching would generally be more of a focus than at a traditional research institution, (b) the field is growing and the variety of schools looking for positions is expanding, and (c) the tenure-track job market is shifting away from R1 institutions and toward M1 institutions.
Mapping the Global Network of Extracellular Protease Regulation in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Gimza Brittney D. , Larias Maria I. , Budny Bridget G. , Shaw Lindsey N.
Published: October 2019

The complex regulatory role of the proteases necessitates very tight coordination and control of their expression. While this process has been well studied, a major oversight has been the consideration of proteases as a single entity rather than as 10 enzymes produced from four different promoters. As such, in this study, we comprehensively characterized the regulation of each protease promoter, discovering vast differences in the way each protease operon is controlled. Additionally, we broaden the picture of protease regulation using a global screen to identify novel loci controlling protease activity, uncovering a cadre of new effectors of protease expression. The impact of these elements on the activity of proteases and known regulators was characterized by producing a comprehensive regulatory circuit that emphasizes the complexity of protease regulation in
Staphylococcus aureus
.
New advances in the management of pulmonary sarcoidosis
Authors: Culver Daniel A , Judson Marc A
Published: October 2019

Sarcoidosis is a highly variable granulomatous multisystem syndrome. It affects individuals in the prime years of life; both the frequency and severity of sarcoidosis are greater in economically disadvantaged populations. The diagnosis, assessment, and management of pulmonary sarcoidosis have evolved as new technologies and therapies have been adopted. Transbronchial needle aspiration guided by endobronchial ultrasound has replaced mediastinoscopy in many centers. Advanced imaging modalities, such as fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography scanning, and the widespread availability of magnetic resonance imaging have led to more sensitive assessment of organ involvement and disease activity. Although several new insights about the pathogenesis of sarcoidosis exist, no new therapies have been specifically developed for use in the disease. The current or proposed use of immunosuppressive medications for sarcoidosis has been extrapolated from other disease states; various novel pathways are currently under investigation as therapeutic targets. Coupled with the growing recognition of corticosteroid toxicities for managing sarcoidosis, the use of corticosteroid sparing anti-sarcoidosis medications is likely to increase. Besides treatment of granulomatous inflammation, recognition and management of the non-granulomatous complications of pulmonary sarcoidosis are needed for optimal outcomes in patients with advanced disease.
Using telemedicine to support care for people with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a qualitative analysis of patients’ perspectives
Authors: Lee Jun Yang , Chan Carina Ka Yee , Chua Siew Siang , Paraidathathu Thomas , Lee Kenneth Kwing-Chin , Tan Christina San San , Nasir Nazrila , Lee Shaun Wen Huey
Published: October 2019

Objective

Telemedicine has been promoted as an economical and effective way to enhance patient care, but its acceptance among patients in low-income and middle-income countries is poorly understood. This study is aimed to explore the experiences and perspectives of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus that used telemedicine to manage their condition.

Design

In-depth and focus group interviews were conducted with participants who have engaged in telemedicine. Questions included were participants’ perception on the programme being used, satisfaction as well as engagement with the telemedicine programme. All interviews and focus groups were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using a thematic approach.

Participants and setting

People with type 2 diabetes (n=48) who participated in a randomised controlled study which examined the use of telemedicine for diabetes management were recruited from 11 primary care clinics located within the Klang Valley.

Results

Twelve focus groups and two in-depth interviews were conducted. Four themes emerged from the analysis: (1) generational difference; (2) independence and convenience, (3) sharing of health data and privacy and (4) concerns and challenges. The main obstacles found in patients using the telemedicine systems were related to internet connectivity and difficulties experienced with system interface. Cost was also another significant concern raised by participants. Participants in this study were primarily positive about the benefits of telemedicine, including its ability to provide real-time data and disease monitoring and the reduction in clinic visits.

Conclusion

Despite the potential benefits of telemedicine in the long-term care of diabetes, there are several perceived barriers that may limit the effectiveness of this technology. As such, collaboration between educators, healthcare providers, telecommunication service providers and patients are required to stimulate the adoption and the use of telemedicine.

NCT0246680.
The Osteoarthritis Thumb Therapy (OTTER) II Trial: a study protocol for a three-arm multi-centre randomised placebo controlled trial of the clinical effectiveness and efficacy and cost-effectiveness of splints for symptomatic thumb base osteoarthritis
Authors: Adams Jo , Barratt Paula , Arden Nigel K , Barbosa Bouças Sofia , Bradley Sarah , Doherty Michael , Dutton Susan , Dziedzic Krysia , Gooberman-Hill Rachael , Hislop Lennie Kelly , Hutt Greenyer Corinne , Jansen Victoria , Luengo-Fernandez Ramon , Meagher Claire , White Peter , Williams Mark
Published: October 2019

Introduction

The economic cost of osteoarthritis (OA) is high. At least 4.4 million people have hand OA in the UK. Symptomatic thumb base OA affects 20% of people over 55 years, causing more pain, work and functional disability than OA elsewhere in the hand. Most evidence-based guidelines recommend splinting for hand OA. Splints that support or immobilise the thumb base are routinely used despite there being limited evidence on their effectiveness. The potential effects of placebo interventions in OA are acknowledged, but few studies investigate the clinical efficacy of rehabilitation interventions nor the impact of any placebo effects associated with splints.

Methods and analysis

Participants aged 30 years and over with symptomatic thumb base OA will be recruited into the trial from secondary care occupational therapy and physiotherapy centres. Following informed consent, participants will complete a baseline questionnaire and then be randomised into one of three treatment arms: a self-management programme, a self-management programme plus a verum thumb splint or a self-management programme plus a placebo thumb splint. The primary outcome is the Australian Canadian Osteoarthritis Hand Index (AUSCAN) hand pain scale. The study endpoint is 8 weeks after baseline. Baseline assessments will be carried out prior to randomisation and outcomes collected at 4, 8 and 12 weeks. Cost-effectiveness analysis will be conducted and individual qualitative interviews conducted with up to 40 participants after 8 weeks to explore perceptions and outcome expectations of verum and placebo splints and exercise.

Ethics and dissemination

South Central—Oxford C Research Ethics Committee approved this study (16/SC/0188). The findings will be disseminated to health professional conferences, journals and lay publications for patient organisations. The research will contribute to improving the management of thumb base OA and help clinicians and patients make informed decisions about the value of different interventions.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN54744256.
Mainstreaming of genomic medicine in gastroenterology, present and future: a nationwide survey of UK gastroenterology trainees
Authors: Al Bakir Ibrahim , Sebepos-Rogers Gregory Malcolm , Burton Hilary , Monahan Kevin J
Published: October 2019

Objective

Genomics and personalised medicine are increasingly relevant for patients with gastroenterological conditions. We aim to capture the current state of genomics training in gastroenterology to review current understanding, clinical experience and long-term educational needs of UK trainees.

Design and setting

A web-based nationwide survey of all UK gastroenterology specialty trainees was conducted in 2017.

Results

100 trainees (14% of UK gastroenterology trainees) completed this survey. Only 9% and 16% of respondents believe that their local training programme adequately prepares them for the future clinical practice using genomic medicine and personalised medicine, respectively. Barriers identified include the need for greater trainee education (95%), inadequate clinical guidance to base interventions on the results of genomic testing (53%), concerns over misinterpretation by patients (43%) and overuse/misuse of testing by clinicians (34%).

Survey respondents felt prepared to perform HFE genotyping (98%), assess TPMT status (97%) and interpret HLA subtyping for suspected coeliac disease (85%). However, only a minority felt prepared to perform the following investigations: polyposis screening (34%), hereditary pancreatitis screening (30%), testing for Lynch yndrome (33%) and KRAS testing for colorectal cancer (20%).

Most respondents would support holding dedicated training days on genomic medicine (83%), formal training provisions for the mainstreaming of genomic testing (64%), an update to the UK gastroenterology specialty training curriculum and examinations (57%) and better-defined referral pathways for local genomic services (91%).

Conclusion

Most gastroenterology trainees in this survey feel ill equipped to practise genomic and personalised medicine as consultants. We propose specific revisions to the UK gastroenterology specialty curriculum that addresses trainees needs.
Frequency and format of clinical trial results dissemination to patients: a survey of authors of trials indexed in PubMed
Authors: Schroter Sara , Price Amy , Malički Mario , Richards Tessa , Clarke Mike
Published: October 2019

Objective

Dissemination of research findings is central to research integrity and promoting discussion of new knowledge and its potential for translation into practice and policy. We investigated the frequency and format of dissemination to trial participants and patient groups.

Design

Survey of authors of clinical trials indexed in PubMed in 2014–2015.

Results

Questionnaire emailed to 19 321 authors; 3127 responses received (16%). Of these 3127 trials, 2690 had human participants and 1818 enrolled individual patients. Among the 1818, 498 authors (27%) reported having disseminated results to participants, 238 (13%) planned to do so, 600 (33%) did not plan to, 176 (10%) were unsure and 306 (17%) indicated ‘other’ or did not answer. Of the 498 authors who had disseminated, 198 (40%) shared academic reports, 252 (51%) shared lay reports, 111 (22%) shared both and 164 (33%) provided individualised study results. Of the 1818 trials, 577 authors (32%) shared/planned to share results with patients outside their trial by direct contact with charities/patient groups, 401 (22%) via patient communities, 845 (46%) via presentations at conferences with patient representation, 494 (27%) via mainstream media and 708 (39%) by online lay summaries. Relatively few of the 1818 authors reported dissemination was suggested by institutional bodies: 314 (17%) of funders reportedly suggested dissemination to trial participants, 252 (14%) to patient groups; 333 (18%) of ethical review boards reportedly suggested dissemination to trial participants, 148 (8%) to patient groups. Authors described many barriers to dissemination.

Conclusion

Fewer than half the respondents had disseminated to participants (or planned to) and only half of those who had disseminated shared lay reports. Motivation to disseminate results to participants appears to arise within research teams rather than being incentivised by institutional bodies. Multiple factors need to be considered and various steps taken to facilitate wide dissemination of research to participants.
New Cu(II)-bearing coordination polymer: Crystal structure, molecular docking, and protective activity on coronary heart disease by reducing ROS production
Authors: Dong Fengquan , Li Baoyi , Jin Xiaowan , Li Xiaozheng , Li Haiying
Published: October 2019

A novel chain-like coordination polymer [CuLCl2(DMF)]n (1) with helical double chains was synthesized using flexible bis(pyridylurea) ligand 1,1[Formula: see text]-[oxybis(2,1-phenylene)] bis(3-pyridin-3-ylurea) (L) under solvothermal conditions and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and elemental analysis. A green grinding processing method was used to produce the required complex 1 nanorods, which featured good water dispersibility. The protective effect of the compound was evaluated in vivo, following the construction of the coronary heart disease (CHD) rat model and nano 1 treatment. The cardiac function promoted by nano 1 was measured using the left ventricular systolic diameter (LVID) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). The anti-oxidative activity of nano 1 was determined with an ROS detection kit. In addition, the interaction between the Cu(II) complex with protein NF-[Formula: see text]B was examined by molecular docking.
The densities and distributions of the largest eigenvalue and the trace of a Beta–Wishart matrix
Authors: Drensky Vesselin , Edelman Alan , Genoar Tierney , Kan Raymond , Koev Plamen
Published: October 2019

We present new expressions for the densities and distributions of the largest eigenvalue and the trace of a Beta–Wishart matrix. The series expansions for these expressions involve fewer terms than previously known results. For the trace, we also present a new algorithm that is linear in the size of the matrix and the degree of truncation, which is optimal.
3D stratigraphic architecture, sedimentary budget, and sources of the Lower and Middle Triassic strata of western Canada: evidence for a major basin structural reorganization
Authors: Crombez Vincent , Rohais Sébastien , Baudin François , Euzen Tristan , Zonneveld John-Paul , Power Matthew
Published: October 2019

This study focuses on the Lower–Middle Triassic Montney, Sunset Prairie, Doig and Halfway formations from the foreland basin of the Canadian Cordillera (Alberta and British Columbia). Based on core and outcrop descriptions, the correlation of 400 wells, and on mineralogical analyses, this study interprets the basin-scale, 3D-stratigraphic architecture of these formations and discusses the controls on its evolution.

Well correlation highlights four sequences (1–4) interpreted to occur in two second-order cycles (A and B). In this work, the Early Triassic Montney Formation and the early Middle Triassic Sunset Prairie Formation are interpreted to consist of three third-order sequences (1–3) related to the first second-order cycle (cycle A). The Middle Triassic Doig and Halfway formations are interpreted to consist of a fourth sequence (4) related to a second second-order cycle (cycle B). Integration of the stratigraphic surfaces with previously published biostratigraphic analyses emphasizes a major time gap of
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2 myr between these two cycles, interpreted to record a major reorganization of the basin. Mineralogical analyses suggest that during cycle A, sediments were delivered from the east (Canadian Shield); whereas in cycle B, additional sources from the west (proto-Canadian Cordillera) occurred. This study shows that the stratigraphic architecture evolution was affected by the structural heritage of the basin and continental geodynamic evolution. This study provides a large-scale understanding on the controls of the stratigraphic architecture of the Lower and Middle Triassic strata, suggesting local and regional controls on the reservoir extension and unconventional play configuration within these strata.
Glacial lake terraces at the eastern end of the Vale of Pickering, North Yorkshire, UK
Authors: Fairburn William A.
Published: October 2019

Detailed landform mapping of key areas in the Vale of Pickering, supported by LiDAR interpretation, has produced sufficient evidence to establish a reinterpretation of the Mid to Late Pleistocene chronology of the Vale of Pickering by defining the margins of two temporally distinct proglacial lakes and reaching a new understanding of the origin of some well-documented geomorphological features. The main significance of the mapping has been to establish that the Hutton Buscel terrace probably originated by lateral erosion along the southern edge of the Corallian Group dip slope of the North York Moors prior to deposition of a broad alluvial plain below a 70 m strandline. Traces of a comparable feature were also located below the Chalk Group escarpment on the southern side of the Vale of Pickering. Perhaps of equal significance has been confirmation that the younger of the two lakes, which has a 45 m shoreline, was possibly connected to Lake Humber in the Vale of York through the Derwent Valley. Evidence for such a lake was provided by mapped shorelines at Malton and Pickering that appear compatible with shorelines in Lake Humber. To account for deep erosion of the Derwent and Mere valleys and the occurrence of laminated clays at
c.
65 m, below a 70 m shoreline above Crambe, regional uplift has been evoked post the older 70 m lake. In-valley alluvial fans have been mapped for the first time in Newton Dale and Thornton Dale.