bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher urge severity score predicts resumption of overactive bladder (OAB) medication following discontinuation of mirabegron treatment in patients with OAB
Authors: Wang Chung‐Cheng , Jiang Yung‐Hong , Kuo Hann‐Chorng
Published: December 2018

Objectives

This study investigated factors predicting the resumption of mirabegron following its discontinuation with successful treatment of overactive bladder (OAB).

Methods

In all, 374 OAB patients reporting an improvement in subjective symptoms after a minimum of 3 months treatment with mirabegron 25 mg, q.d., were screened. Those wanting to continue with the medication (n = 109) were excluded from the study. The remaining 265 patients discontinued mirabegron and their outcomes were evaluated at baseline (discontinuation) and 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months using the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), Urgency Severity Scale (USS), Patient's Perception of Bladder Condition (PPBC), and Global Response Assessment (GRA), as well as uroflowmetry and post‐void residual (PVR).

Results

After mirabegron discontinuation, 203 patients completed follow‐up. The mean (±SD) duration from discontinuing medication to resumption of mirabegron was 2.25 ± 1.17 months (range 1–12 months). Compared with the 111 (54.7%) patients who did not resume mirabegron, the 92 (45.3%) patients who resumed mirabegron had a higher USS at time of discontinuation (1.18 ± 1.76 vs. 0.65 ± 1.33; P = 0.017). The USS was a strong predictor of mirabegron resumption (P = 0.02; odds ratio 1.315; 95% confidence interval 1.051–1.646).

Conclusions

Among OAB patients who were successfully treated with mirabegron for ≥3 months, nearly half requested resumption of mirabegron after discontinuation. A higher USS was found to predict retreatment after discontinuation of mirabegron in OAB patients.
Predation by the gull Larus crassirostris on benthic invertebrates: First report of avian predation on the abalone Haliotis discus hannai
Authors: Hayakawa Jun , Ito Motohiro , Kawamura Tomohiko
Published: December 2018

We conducted field surveys to study avian predation on invertebrates inhabiting the intertidal and shallow subtidal zones in Otsuchi Bay on the Sanriku Coast. The black‐tailed gull Larus crassirostris was the most frequently observed avian predator, and we observed the gull actively foraging on benthic invertebrates at the study site. In particular, we found frequent predation activities by the black‐tailed gull on the abalone Haliotis discus hannnai. The abalone accounted for 56.3% of the total amount of the prey remains, and the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus intermedius and mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis were also major components of the prey remains and accounted for 14.6% and 11.8% of the total number, respectively. While the gull preys on the abalone over a wide size range (27.0–105.7 mm shell length), smaller size class abalone individuals (<40 mm shell length) were dominant in prey remains compared to the live abalone surveyed in the surrounding habitats. Among four time periods in a day, predation rate on the abalone was highest in the late afternoon. Predation rate on the abalone was higher on rising tides than falling tides, although no clear relationship was confirmed between the predation rate and the tidal height. The predation by the black‐tailed gull might have large impacts on the shallow rocky reef ecosystem.
The role of interspecific hybridization in adaptive potential at range margins
Authors: Cronk Quentin C. , Suarez‐Gonzalez Adriana
Published: December 2018

Is interspecific hybridization an ordinary part of species biology? And if so, how evolutionarily important is it? These questions have been discussed in the botanical literature, in one form or another, at least since J.P. Lotsy early in the last century. He coined the term syngameon, now defined as “a group of otherwise distinct species interconnected by limited gene exchange, i.e. the most inclusive interbreeding evolutionary unit” (Suarez‐Gonzalez, Lexer, & Cronk, Biology Letters, 14, 20170688, ). North American poplars (Populus, Salicaceae) form one such syngameon. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, a new study (Chhatre, Evans, DiFazio, & Keller, Molecular Ecology, 27, ) uses three species from the North American poplar syngameon to tackle the twin issues of (a) the extent of gene exchange and (b) the significance of this gene exchange to the biology of these trees. They demonstrate that a hybrid zone exists where the ranges of Populus angustifolia and Populus balsamifera overlap in the Rocky Mountains, and postulate that this hybridization may facilitate population survival at the range edges. Indeed, the authors show that a remarkable number of loci are introgressing under selection. Very remarkably, they detect additional hybridity (making a trihybrid zone) with Populus trichocarpa (a species that does not occur in the area). Intriguingly, there is some genomic evidence of ancient introgression events. This suggests a model of episodic species divergence and hybridization, in which the syngameon is dynamic and behaving as a supraspecific metapopulation over geological time.
No evidence for prezygotic postcopulatory avoidance of kin despite high inbreeding depression
Authors: Vuarin Pauline , Bouchard Alice , Lesobre Loïc , Levêque Gwènaëlle , Chalah Toni , Saint Jalme Michel , Lacroix Frédéric , Hingrat Yves , Sorci Gabriele
Published: December 2018

Offspring resulting from mating among close relatives can suffer from impaired fitness through the expression of recessive alleles with deleterious effects. Postcopulatory sperm selection (a prezygotic mechanism of cryptic female choice) has been suggested to be an effective way to avoid inbreeding. To investigate whether postcopulatory female choice allows the avoidance of fertilization by close kin, we performed artificial inseminations in a promiscuous bird, the houbara bustard (Chlamydotis undulata undulata). Females were inseminated with a mix of sperm from triads of males, each constituted of a male genetically unrelated to the female, a first cousin and a half‐sibling. When counting the number of eggs sired by unrelated males, cousins or half‐siblings, we found a significant deviation from the expected random distribution, with more eggs sired by unrelated males. However, offspring sired by cousins, and especially by half‐siblings suffered from high prehatching mortality, suggesting that the observed paternity skew towards unrelated males might reflect differential offspring mortality rather than sperm selection. In agreement with this hypothesis, within‐triad siring success was similar for the three parental relatedness categories, but the relationship between siring and hatching success differed across categories. In clutches with high hatching success, unrelated males had the highest success while in clutches with high failure rate, half‐siblings had the highest success. Offspring sired by half‐siblings also suffered from reduced growth rate during the first three months and higher posthatching mortality. Hence, despite substantial fitness costs associated with fertilization by close relatives, females do not seem to select sperm of unrelated males.
Photoecology of the Antarctic cyanobacterium Leptolyngbya sp. BC1307 brought to light through community analysis, comparative genomics and in vitro photophysiology
Authors: Chrismas Nathan A. M. , Williamson Christopher J. , Yallop Marian L. , Anesio Alexandre M. , Sánchez‐Baracaldo Patricia
Published: December 2018

Cyanobacteria are important photoautotrophs in extreme environments such as the McMurdo Dry Valleys, Antarctica. Terrestrial Antarctic cyanobacteria experience constant darkness during the winter and constant light during the summer which influences the ability of these organisms to fix carbon over the course of an annual cycle. Here, we present a unique approach combining community structure, genomic and photophysiological analyses to understand adaptation to Antarctic light regimes in the cyanobacterium Leptolyngbya sp. BC1307. We show that Leptolyngbya sp. BC1307 belongs to a clade of cyanobacteria that inhabits near‐surface environments in the McMurdo Dry Valleys. Genomic analyses reveal that, unlike close relatives, Leptolyngbya sp. BC1307 lacks the genes necessary for production of the pigment phycoerythrin and is incapable of complimentary chromatic acclimation, while containing several genes responsible for known photoprotective pigments. Photophysiology experiments confirmed Leptolyngbya sp. BC1307 to be tolerant of short‐term exposure to high levels of photosynthetically active radiation, while sustained exposure reduced its capacity for photoprotection. As such, Leptolyngbya sp. BC1307 likely exploits low‐light microenvironments within cyanobacterial mats in the McMurdo Dry Valleys.
Spatial patterns along an elevation gradient in high altitude grasslands, Brazil
Authors: de Almeida Campos Cordeiro Anaïs , Neri Andreza Viana
Published: December 2018

The Brazilian high altitude grasslands are important biodiversity centers that contribute to human well‐being far outside their boundaries. They host many vulnerable species that may go locally extinct as a result of small changes in the environment. Performing studies on local species distribution is important to guide biodiversity conservation in these areas. This study aimed to characterize a high altitude grassland plant community along an elevation gradient in southeastern Brazil. Simple logistic regression, chi‐squared tests and indicator species analysis were performed to investigate respectively whether: 1) the occurrence of botanical families was related to the altitude; 2) the richness and abundance of life forms varied along the gradient and 3) there were populations associated with specific altitudinal belts. Rubiaceae and Polygalaceae had higher occurrence probability at higher altitudes. Hemicryptophytes and chamaephytes seem to be the most favored life forms under local extreme conditions such as low temperatures and drought. The vegetation spectra varied significantly along the gradient, highlighting the major role of the turnover of habitats on a local scale for the underlying patterns of species distribution. Upper elevations encompassed a high number of indicator species, and further analyses of indicator species of high altitude grasslands will provide clues about adaptability of local species, important to consider in ecosystem management and conservation.
Gastroparesis is associated with decreased FOXF1 and FOXF2 in humans, and loss of FOXF1 and FOXF2 results in gastroparesis in mice
Authors: Herring Brian Paul , Hoggatt April M. , Gupta Anita , Wo John M.
Published: December 2018

Background and Aims

The transcription factors FOXF1 and FOXF2 have been implicated in the development of the gastrointestinal tract but their role in adults or in gastrointestinal diseases is poorly understood. We have recently shown that expression of serum response factor (SRF), a transcription factor whose activity is modulated by FOXF proteins, is decreased in the stomach muscularis of patients with gastroparesis. The aim of the current study was to determine whether FOXF expression is decreased in gastroparesis patients and whether loss of FOXF1 and/or FOXF2 from adult smooth muscle is sufficient to impair gastric emptying in mice.

Methods

Full‐thickness stomach biopsy samples were collected from control subjects and from patients with gastroparesis. mRNA was isolated from the muscularis externa, and FOXF mRNA expression levels were determined by quantitative reverse transcriptase (RT)‐PCR. Foxf1 and Foxf2 were knocked out together and separately from smooth muscle cells in adult mice, and the subsequent effect on liquid gastric emptying and contractile protein expression was determined.

Key Results

Expression of FOXF1 and FOXF2 is decreased in smooth muscle tissue from gastroparesis patients. Knockout of Foxf1 and Foxf2 together, but not alone, from mouse smooth muscle resulted in delayed liquid gastric emptying. Foxf1/2 double knockout mice had decreased expression of smooth muscle contractile proteins, SRF, and myocardin in stomach muscularis.

Conclusions and Inferences

Our findings suggest that decreased expression of FOXF1 and FOXF2 may be contributing to the impaired gastric emptying seen in gastroparesis patients.
Pre‐ and post‐diagnosis body mass index and heart failure mortality: a dose–response meta‐analysis of observational studies reveals greater risk of being underweight than being overweight
Authors: Milajerdi A. , Djafarian K. , Shab‐Bidar S. , Speakman J. R.
Published: December 2018

Objective

To investigate the dose–response association between pre‐ and post‐diagnosis body mass index (BMI) and heart failure (HF) mortality.

Methods

Eligible observational studies were searched in databases, up to November 2017. We used random‐effects generalized least squares spline models for trend estimation to derive pooled BMI unit–HF mortality relationship.

Results

Sixteen cohort studies (six pre‐diagnosis and 10 post‐diagnosis BMI) were included, comprising a total of 258,379 subjects with 13,201 deaths due to HF. A nonlinear U‐shaped association was found between pre‐diagnosis BMI and the risk of HF mortality, with a greater risk from being at the lowest extreme, rather than being at the top category. The combined hazard ratio of HF mortality among the highest compared to the lowest category of pre‐diagnosis BMI was 1.24 (0.65–2.37, I2 = 90.7%). No significant nonlinear association was found between post‐diagnosis BMI and HF mortality as well as when comparing the highest to the lowest category of BMI.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis showed those with both high and low pre‐diagnosis BMI had higher risk for HF mortality, with a greater risk from being too underweight, rather than being obese. No significant association was found between post‐diagnosis BMI and the risk of HF mortality. Further detailed investigations are needed to accurately examine the potential mechanistic links between BMI and health outcomes.
Comprehensive identification of pleiotropic loci for body fat distribution using the NHGRI‐EBI Catalog of published genome‐wide association studies
Authors: Kaur Yuvreet , Wang Dominic X. , Liu Hsin‐Yen , Meyre David
Published: December 2018

We conducted a hypothesis‐free cross‐trait analysis for waist‐to‐hip ratio adjusted for body mass index (WHRadjBMI) loci derived through genome‐wide association studies (GWAS). Summary statistics from published GWAS were used to capture all WHRadjBMI single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and their proxy SNPs were identified. These SNPs were used to extract cross‐trait associations between WHRadjBMI SNPs and other traits through the NHGRI‐EBI GWAS Catalog. Pathway analysis was conducted for pleiotropic WHRadjBMI SNPs. We found 160 WHRadjBMI SNPs and 3675 proxy SNPs. Cross‐trait analysis identified 239 associations, of which 100 were for obesity traits. The remaining 139 associations were filtered down to 101 unique linkage disequilibrium block associations, which were grouped into 13 categories: lipids, red blood cell traits, white blood cell counts, inflammatory markers and autoimmune diseases, type 2 diabetes‐related traits, adiponectin, cancers, blood pressure, height, neuropsychiatric disorders, electrocardiography changes, urea measurement, and others. The highest number of cross‐trait associations were found for triglycerides (n = 10), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (n = 9), and reticulocyte counts (n = 8). Pathway analysis for WHRadjBMI pleiotropic SNPs found immune function pathways as the top canonical pathways. Results from our original methodology indicate a novel genetic association between WHRadjBMI and reticulocyte counts and highlight the pleiotropy between abdominal obesity, immune pathways, and other traits.
Computer‐assisted analysis of immunohistological parameters in oral giant cell granulomas
Authors: Yoon Jin Hyeok , Li Mengtao , Basile John R. , Lin Yi‐Ling
Published: December 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between active osteoclasts, as defined by positive nuclear NFATc1 signals, and the clinical behaviors of oral giant cell granulomas.

Materials And Methods

NFATc1 immunohistochemical and TRAP‐Cbfa1 double immunofluorescence stainings were performed on 9 cases of peripheral giant cell granulomas (PGCGs), 9 cases of central giant cell granulomas (CGCGs) with a recurrent history, and 10 cases of CGCGs without a recurrent history. The results were photographed and quantified by ImageJ. Nine osteoclast‐ and osteoblast‐related parameters were analyzed with conventional statistics and with Rapidminer, an open data analysis platform for computer predictive modeling.

Results

Peripheral giant cell granulomas had a significantly lower percentage of active osteoclasts than CGCGs. The recurrent CGCG subgroup had the highest active osteoclast density in comparison with non‐recurrent CGCG subgroup and PCCGs.

Conclusions

The study strongly indicates that the status of osteoclasts, as defined by the subcellular NFATc1 signal, has an association with the clinical behavior of oral giant cell granulomas. NFATc1 staining may be useful as a biomarker to predict recurrence of CGCGs. The study also illustrates the potential application of data science tools in studying pathology to facilitate the discovery of disease‐associated biomarkers.
Maritime Law Enforcement by the Republic of Korea Concerning Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction: Search and Interdiction
Authors: Lee Seokwoo , Park Eonkyung
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this article is to review the practices of South Korea concerning interdiction, especially on the seas, in response to the various sanctions placed on the DPRK by the UN Security Council (UNSC). This article examines the UNSC's resolutions along with Korean statutes and practices. The UN resolutions that are touched on in this article seem to mollify concerns of a breach of international law, and all member states owe a legal obligation to implement them. The primary institutions in charge of maritime law enforcement of South Korea are the Korea Coast Guard and the Korea Customs Service. The Korea Coast Guard is in charge of maritime law enforcement of coastal waters, adjacent waters, and pelagic waters in accordance with the Coast Guard Act. However, there is no statutory provision that provides for the measures, such as attachment and/or disposal of the seizures during search and inspection on the sea, and there is no provision concerning compensation and/or liability due to such measures. Therefore, there needs to be secure legal grounds for direct enforcement measures on seizures in line with the Coast Guard Act. The Korea Customs Service reserves the exercise of police power: to the extent of the legislative purpose of the Customs Act; in the proper administration of the imposition and collection of customs duties and the customs clearance of exported and imported goods; and in securing revenues from customs duties. However, the Customs Act does not provide that weapons of mass destruction and items related to them shall be subject to its application. Given these reasons, it is necessary to develop and implement legislation that recognizes that the transportation of weapons of mass destruction and transportation of designated items by the relevant Resolutions on the DPRK are a breach of the Customs Act.
A gravid fossil turtle from the Early Cretaceous reveals a different egg development strategy to that of extant marine turtles
Authors: Cadena Edwin‐Alberto , Parra‐Ruge Mary L. , Parra‐Ruge Juan de D. , Padilla‐Bernal Santiago
Published: December 2018

Extant sea turtles develop and lay pliable (flexible) eggs; however, it is unknown whether they inherited this reproductive strategy from their closer fossil relatives or if it represents an evolutionary novelty. Here, we describe the first undisputable gravid marine fossil turtle ever found, from the early Cretaceous of Colombia, belonging to Desmatochelys padillai Cadena & Parham, which constitutes a representative of the Protostegidae. Using thin sectioning of one of the eggs, as well as scanning electron microscopy coupled with elemental characterization, cathodoluminescence, and computer tomography, we established that Desmatochelys padillai produced rigid eggs similar to those associated with some extant and fossil freshwater and terrestrial turtles. At least 48 spherical eggs were preserved inside this gravid turtle. We suggest that the development of rigid eggs in the extinct marine turtle Desmatochelys padillai resulted as an adaptation for egg‐embryo requirements dictated by the physical attributes of the nesting site.
Emotional expression in psychiatric conditions: New technology for clinicians
Authors: Grabowski Karol , Rynkiewicz Agnieszka , Lassalle Amandine , Baron‐Cohen Simon , Schuller Björn , Cummins Nicholas , Baird Alice , Podgórska‐Bednarz Justyna , Pieniążek Agata , Łucka Izabela
Published: December 2018

Aim

Emotional expressions are one of the most widely studied topics in neuroscience, from both clinical and non‐clinical perspectives. Atypical emotional expressions are seen in various psychiatric conditions, including schizophrenia, depression, and autism spectrum conditions. Understanding the basics of emotional expressions and recognition can be crucial for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Emotions can be expressed in the face, gesture, posture, voice, and behavior and affect physiological parameters, such as the heart rate or body temperature. With modern technology, clinicians can use a variety of tools ranging from sophisticated laboratory equipment to smartphones and web cameras. The aim of this paper is to review the currently used tools using modern technology and discuss their usefulness as well as possible future directions in emotional expression research and treatment strategies.

Methods

The authors conducted a literature review in the PubMed, EBSCO, and SCOPUS databases, using the following key words: ‘emotions,’ ‘emotional expression,’ ‘affective computing,’ and ‘autism.’ The most relevant and up‐to‐date publications were identified and discussed. Search results were supplemented by the authors’ own research in the field of emotional expression.

Results

We present a critical review of the currently available technical diagnostic and therapeutic methods. The most important studies are summarized in a table.

Conclusion

Most of the currently available methods have not been adequately validated in clinical settings. They may be a great help in everyday practice; however, they need further testing. Future directions in this field include more virtual‐reality‐based and interactive interventions, as well as development and improvement of humanoid robots.
Body knowledge in children with congenital lower limb deficiency
Authors: Mano Hiroshi , Fujiwara Sayaka , Haga Nobuhiko
Published: December 2018

Background

In order to effectively improve motor function, a sound understanding of one's body – for example, relative spatial position, relationships, names and functions of body parts – is essential. The aim of this study was to explore how children with congenital lower limb deficiency (LLD) perceive their bodies, particularly their legs.

Methods

Six children with congenital LLD and 14 controls, aged 5–12 years, were recruited for this study. They drew self‐portraits and answered questions about names of body parts. These body part‐related questions consisted of a production test, in which an examiner pointed to body parts on each child and asked the child to name them, and a comprehension test, in which the examiner mentioned body parts and asked the child to point to them on their own body.

Results

No differences were found between the self‐portraits of children with LLD and those of the control children. In the verbal tests, children with LLD responded correctly at lower rates to questions on body trunk, upper limbs, arms, hands and feet than the control children.

Conclusion

Children with LLD have diminished lexical–semantic body knowledge of the upper limbs and feet compared with children without LLD.
“Gave me a line of ice and I got hooked”: Exploring narratives of initiating methamphetamine use
Authors: Schmidt Michael , Dillon Patrick J. , Jackson Bianca M. , Pirkey Paige , Kedia Satish K.
Published: December 2018

Objective

This study explores factors associated with methamphetamine initiation based on the narratives from an online support group for methamphetamine users.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study of 202 first‐person narratives submitted to an anonymous, online support group for methamphetamine users. The narratives were analyzed in the Dedoose qualitative software using Charmaz’s adaptations to Glaserian grounded theory methodology.

Results

Ten factors for initiating methamphetamine use emerged from our analysis and corresponded to three constructs from the Theory of Planned Behavior: attitude (needing energy to work, wishing to escape pain, wanting to have fun, and desiring a thinner body), subjective norms (ubiquity of methamphetamine use, yearning for closer relationships, and wanting to fit in), and perceived behavioral control (believing addiction is inevitable, feeling forced to fit in, and having no real control). Many participants described initiating methamphetamine use because they believed it would help them meet personal goals or needs. Other participants began using it out of curiosity, to develop relationships, and/or because of the drug’s ubiquity in their social environments. Some users described how their perceived lack of control left them with limited ability to resist trying the drug.

Conclusions

Results from this study may aid public health researchers and interventionists seeking theoretically informed methamphetamine prevention programs.
Characteristics of Xeroderma Pigmentosum in Japan: Lessons From Two Clinical Surveys and Measures for Patient Care
Authors: Nishigori Chikako , Nakano Eiji , Masaki Taro , Ono Ryusuke , Takeuchi Seiji , Tsujimoto Mariko , Ueda Takehiro
Published: December 2018

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare autosomal recessive hereditary disease caused by deficiency in repair of DNA lesions generated by ultraviolet radiation and other compounds. Patients with XP display pigmentary change and numerous skin cancers in sun‐exposed sites, and some patients show exaggerated severe sunburns even upon minimum sun exposure as well as neurological symptoms. We conducted a nationwide survey for XP since 1980. In Japan, the frequency of the XP complementation group A is the highest, followed by the variant type; while in the Western countries, those of groups C or D are the highest. Regarding skin cancers in XP, basal cell carcinoma was the most frequent cancer that afflicted patients with XP, followed by squamous cell carcinoma, and malignant melanoma. The frequency of these skin cancers in patients with XP has decreased in these 20 years, and the age of onset of developing skin cancers is higher than those previously observed, owing to early diagnosis and education to patients and care takers on strict prevention from sunlight for patients with XP. On the other hand, the effective therapy for neurological XP has not been established yet, and this needs to be done urgently.
Effects of attachment to and participation in the community on motivation to participate in dementia prevention and support activities: analysis of Web survey data
Authors: Takao Makiko , Maki Yohko
Published: December 2018

Aim

The objective of this study was to elucidate the effects of a sense of attachment to the community (attachment) and participation in community activities (participation) on motivation to participate in dementia prevention and support activities (motivation).

Methods

We conducted a nationwide Web‐based questionnaire survey of 1693 men and women aged ≥20 years. The questionnaire items used in the analysis asked about the following: (i) demographic characteristics (i.e. gender, age, marital status, household income (monitor‐registered data), elderly family members, number of years of residency); (ii) attachment; (iii) participation; (iv) self‐assessment of dementia knowledge; (v) nursing care experience; (vi) contact with individuals with dementia; (vii) attitudes towards dementia and people with dementia; and (viii) motivation.

Results

Positivity towards dementia and negativity towards dementia were extracted as factors in exploratory factor analysis of attitudes towards dementia and people with dementia. Multiple regression analysis with extracted factors as dependent variables showed that attachment and participation exerted positive effects on attitudes towards dementia (both P < 0.001). The direct effects of attachment and participation on motivation were significant in hierarchical multiple regression analysis (both P < 0.001), and path analysis demonstrated the paths of the effects of attachment and participation on motivation (both P < 0.001). The bias‐corrected bootstrap method showed that both attachment and participation exerted direct and indirect (via the mediation of attitudes towards dementia) effects on motivation to participate in the community (all P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results showed that attachment and participation were both determinants of positive attitudes towards dementia and, thus, exerted effects on motivation, both directly and indirectly. These findings suggested that the enhancement of attachment and promotion of participation could lead to the promotion of dementia prevention and support activities in communities and increase dementia awareness.
On resonant interactions of gravity‐capillary waves without energy exchange
Authors: Chabane Malik , Choi Wooyoung
Published: December 2018

We consider resonant triad interactions of gravity‐capillary waves and investigate in detail special resonant triads that exchange no energy during their interactions so that the wave amplitudes remain constant in time. After writing the resonance conditions in terms of two parameters (or two angles of wave propagation), we first identify a region in the two‐dimensional parameter space, where resonant triads can be always found, and then describe the variations of resonant wavenumbers and wave frequencies over the resonance region. Using the amplitude equations recovered from a Hamiltonian formulation for water waves, it is shown that any resonant triad inside the resonance region can interact without energy exchange if the initial wave amplitudes and relative phase satisfy the two conditions for fixed point solutions of the amplitude equations. Furthermore, it is shown that the symmetric resonant triad exchanging no energy forms a transversely modulated traveling wave field, which can be considered a two‐dimensional generalization of Wilton ripples.
Exercise type and activities of daily living disability in older women: An 8‐year population‐based cohort study
Authors: Osuka Yosuke , Kojima Narumi , Kim Miji , Won Chang Won , Suzuki Takao , Kim Hunkyung
Published: December 2018

Background

Exercise may reduce the risk of disability for activities of daily living (ADL), but the degree of associations between specific exercise types and such a risk remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the longitudinal associations between exercise types and the incidence of ADL disability in older women.

Methods

This 8‐year population‐based prospective cohort study enrolled 1003 community‐dwelling older Japanese women without ADL disability in the baseline surveys. In the baseline surveys, all participants were asked whether or not they participated in any of 16 exercise types through a face‐to‐face interview. ADL were assessed using a modified form of the Katz index that comprised five ADL tasks. ADL disability was defined as dependence in at least one ADL task during the 8‐year follow‐up period. Binary logistic regression analyses were applied to obtain adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confident intervals (CIs) for the incidence of ADL disability based on participation or non‐participation in each exercise type.

Results

Activities of daily living disability was noted in 130 participants (13.0%) over the 8‐year follow‐up period. After adjustment for confounders and other exercise types, participation in dancing, compared to non‐participation, was associated with a significantly lower OR (0.27; 95% CI: 0.09‐0.75) for incident ADL disability. There were no significant associations between other exercise types and incident ADL disability.

Conclusion

Dancing was significantly and independently associated with a lower incidence of ADL disability. Thus, dancing may solely contribute to a reduced risk of ADL disability in older women.
Using Flint, Michigan, lead data in introductory statistics
Authors: Loux Travis , Gibson Andrew K.
Published: December 2018

Although the use of real‐world data sets is encouraged when teaching statistics, it can be difficult for instructors to find meaningful data for introducing students to univariate descriptive statistics such as the mean, median, and percentiles. The recent lead contamination of the water supply in Flint, Michigan, provides a real‐life data set with important implications hinging on basic statistics such as these. The data set can also be used as a starting point for discussions on sampling design, data collection, and ethical data practices.
Piloting and implementation of quality assessment and quality control procedures in RBC‐Omics: a large multi‐center study of red blood cell hemolysis during storage
Authors: Stone Mars , Keating Sheila M. , Kanias Tamir , Lanteri Marion C. , Lebedeva Mila , Sinchar Derek , Hampton Dylan , Jakub Adam , Rychka Val , Brewer Greg , Bakkour Sonia , Gefter Nelly , Murcia Karla , Page Grier P. , Endres‐Dighe Stacy , Bialkowski Walter , Fu Xiaoyun , Zimring Jim , Raife Thomas J. , Kleinman Steve , Gladwin Mark T. , Busch Michael P. ,   for the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Recipient Epidemiology Donor Evaluation Study III (REDS‐III) Program
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND

The major aims of the RBC‐Omics study were to evaluate the genomic and metabolomic determinants of spontaneous and stress‐induced hemolysis during RBC storage. This study was unique in scale and design to allow evaluation of RBC donations from a sufficient number of donors across the spectrum of race, ethnicity, sex, and donation intensity. Study procedures were carefully piloted, optimized, and controlled to enable high‐quality data collection.

METHODS

The enrollment goal of 14,000 RBC donors across four centers, with characterization of RBC hemolysis across two testing laboratories, required rigorous piloting and optimization and establishment of a quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) program. Optimization of WBC elution from leukoreduction (LR) filters, development and validation of small‐volume transfer bags, impact of manufacturing and sample‐handling procedures on hemolysis parameters, and testing consistency across laboratories and technicians and over time were part of this quality assurance/quality control program.

RESULTS

LR filter elution procedures were optimized for obtaining DNA for analysis. Significant differences between standard and pediatric storage bags led to use of an alternative LR‐RBC transfer bag. The impact of sample preparation and freezing methods on metabolomics analyses was evaluated. Proficiency testing monitored and documented testing consistency across laboratories and technicians.

CONCLUSION

Piloting and optimization, and establishment of a robust quality assurance/quality control program documented process consistency throughout the study and was essential in executing this large‐scale multicenter study. This program supports the validity of the RBC‐Omics study results and a sample repository that can be used in future studies.
Dose‐dependent effect of stored‐blood transfusions on recipient red blood cell indices, deformability and density
Authors: Ichikawa Junko , Koshino Ichiro , Komori Makiko
Published: December 2018

We prospectively studied the dose‐dependent effect of transfused stored red blood cells (RBCs) on recipient RBC indices, deformability and cell density in 10 patients administered stored RBCs for blood transfusion during general surgery. There were dose‐dependent decreases in mean corpuscular volume and increases in mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration after completion of 4‐ and 6‐unit stored RBC transfusions. The amount of dense populations increased proportionately with the amount of stored RBCs transfused. The maximal deformability index value was significantly and dose‐dependently decreased, suggesting that hemodynamic blood flow, especially the microcirculation may be impaired in patients who receive large amounts of stored RBCs.
Magnitude and risk factors for cytomegalovirus infection among voluntary blood donors at National Blood Bank, Addis Ababa Ethiopia
Authors: Teka Yeabkal Daniel , Demoz Habtemariam , Bekele Fanuel Belayneh , Tulu Kassu Desta
Published: December 2018

Background

Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a ubiquitous agent that commonly infects individuals from diverse geographical and socio‐economic backgrounds. The infection is a major concern among some populations of blood transfusion recipients, especially neonates and immune‐compromised patients. Information on the burden of the infection is very scarce, and to the best of our knowledge, there is no documented evidence regarding its distribution and risk factors among blood donors in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study assesses the magnitude and risk factors for cytomegalovirus infection among voluntary blood donors at National Blood Bank, Addis Ababa Ethiopia.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, a consecutive sampling of donors was used to select 605 participants. Data were collected by using a self‐administered structured questionnaire, and blood samples were collected for laboratory tests following standard blood centre SOPs. Serum samples were assayed for CMV IgG and CMV IgM using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Descriptive statistical techniques were used to assess the distribution, and chi‐square test was performed to identify associated factors at P values <0·05.

Result

Of 605 voluntary blood donors included in the study, 458 (75·7%) were males. Mean ± SD age of the study participants was 30·3 ± 8·37 years with range between 18 and 63 years. There were 571 (94·4%) CMV IgG and 24 (4·0%) CMV IgM positivity donors. Transfusion‐transmissible infections (TTIs) positivity rate was 2 (0·3%) for HIV, 6 (1·0%) for HBsAg and 3 (0·5%) for syphilis. There were no statically significant associations between the dependent and independent variables.

Conclusion and Recommendation

The magnitude of CMV is high among voluntary blood donors, and it has no association with transfusion and sexual contact history of donors. Therefore, we recommend CMV screening should be considered while transfusing immunosuppressed individuals, investigation of risk‐mitigation strategies, such as universal leucoreduction versus selective bed‐side leucoreduction should be considered.
The diversification of neopasiphaeine bees during the Cenozoic (Hymenoptera: Colletidae)
Authors: Almeida Eduardo A. B. , Packer Laurence , Melo Gabriel A. R. , Danforth Bryan N. , Cardinal Sophie C. , Quinteiro Fábio B. , Pie Marcio R.
Published: December 2018

The biogeography of colletid bees as a whole can be explained by several South American‐Australian trans‐Antarctic interchanges. Within Colletidae, neopasiphaeine bees form a large group that has not been adequately studied, even though they are interesting both from the biogeographical viewpoint for fitting well the austral Gondwanan track and for their associations to host plants. The present paper integrates phylogenetic, biogeographic and paleontological data to reconstruct the evolutionary history of Neopasiphaeinae, with special emphasis on the New World taxa, relating the evolution of these bees to changes, such as the Andes uplift and expansion of open vegetation biomes. First, we propose a phylogenetic hypothesis for the Neopasiphaeinae using one mitochondrial and five nuclear loci. Phylogenetic relationships and divergence time estimation were simultaneously inferred in a Bayesian framework, and the tempo of neopasiphaeine diversification was investigated using lineage‐through‐time plots. The historical biogeography of neopasiphaeine bees was investigated in a likelihood framework. The clade represented by Neopasiphaeinae is strongly supported within Colletidae, and the bulk of their genera can be divided into two major sister‐clades that diverged during the Eocene: one endemic to the Australian region and the other to the Neotropical region. Divergence times among most neotropical genera of Neopasiphaeinae indicate that they differentiated and started their diversification during the Miocene. Our results depict a complex process of geographic evolution in the Neotropical clade, which probably relates to important changes in the neotropical climates and biota beginning at the Oligocene and became more marked in the Miocene. We present a scenario of the neotropical Neopasiphaeinae initially associated with areas of open vegetation in subtropical and temperate portions of South America, followed by multiple separations of lineages east and west of the Andes, and more recent occupations of habitats in tropical portions of the continent.
FLOW BEHAVIOUR OF OIL BLOB THROUGH A CAPILLARY TUBE CONSTRICTION DURING PULSED INJECTION
Authors: Jufar Shiferaw Regassa , M Al-Shami Tareq , Djuraev Ulugbek , Mamo Negash Berihun , Mahbubur Rahman Mohammed
Published: December 2018

A numerical simulation of flow of oil blob through a capillary tube constriction is presented. The simulation was run in a 2D axisymmetric model. Water is injected at the inlet to mobilize oil blob placed near the capillary tube constriction. Transient flow images were used to understand the flow evolution process. Results from the study show that pulsed injection effectively assisted to squeeze out the oil blob through the capillary tube constriction with shorter time compared to continuous injection.  Pulsed injection reduced the time required for the first droplet to cross the capillary tube constriction by about 3 folds compared to continuous injection. In addition, the droplet that crossed the constriction is larger when the flow was pulsed. In both cases, there is a reverse flow in the opposite direction of the injection. However, the severity of the reverse flow is stronger in the case of continuous injection. Immediately downstream the constriction, there is an adverse pressure gradient zone during continuous injection which limits the mobility of droplet that crossed the constriction. However, in the case of pulsed injection, there is a favorable pressure gradient zone immediately downstream the constriction. This zone expedites mobility of droplets that cross the constriction by transporting them further downstream through suction effect. Apparently, pulsed injection eases off the adverse pressure gradient and allowed more volume of oil to pass through the constriction. Within about two periods of pulsation, 84% of original oil placed at the beginning crossed the constriction compared to only 35% in the case of continuous injection. Even though the same amount of water was injected in both cases, pulsed injection clearly altered the flow behavior. The observation from this study may be extended to more complex flows in order to tailor the method for certain specific applications, such as flow of residual oil through a reservoir.
RHIZOPHORA MANGLE L. LEAF BIOCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION: NATURAL-GREEN TOTAL-CORROSION INHIBITION PROSPECT ON CONCRETE STEEL-REINFORCEMENT IN 3.5% NaCl
Authors: Okeniyi Joshua Olusegun , Akinlabi Esther Titilayo , Ikotun Jacob Olumuyiwa , Akinlabi Stephen Akinwale , Okeniyi Elizabeth Toyin , Elizabeth Ojewumi Modupe
Published: December 2018

Effective corrosion-protection by plant-extract on metals, in aggressive service-environment, is dependent on the biochemical constituents of which the natural plant is made-up. This paper investigates biochemical characterization of inorganic and organic constituents of Rhizophora mangle L. leaf for gaining insight on its steel-reinforcement corrosion mitigating prospect in NaCl-immersed concretes. For the study, atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and phytochemical screening analyses were employed. Total-corrosion effect was also studied from steel-reinforced concrete samples, having different concentrations of the leaf-extract as admixture, and which were immersed in 3.5% NaCl (simulating saline/marine environment). Results, by AAS, showed that Rhizophora mangle L. leaf inorganic constituents were highest in iron, Fe = 10,316.17 μg/g and lowest in cadmium, Cd = 6.2019 μg/g but has neither lead (Pb) nor chromium (Cr). Also, organic constituents, by FT-IR, indicated extract from the leaf constitutes aromatic chained compounds rich in π-electrons as well as sulphur, nitrogen and oxygen-bearing ligands to which iron (steel-rebar) exhibits coordinate affinity. Phytochemical characterization showed that the leaf-extract contains alkaloids, tannins, phlobatannins, saponins, steroids and glycosides. Corrosion-inhibiting prospect testing, using the leaf-extract, indicated reduced steel-reinforcement total-corrosion effects that correlated with the extract admixture concentrations employed in the 3.5% NaCl-immersed steel-reinforced concretes.
APPLICATION OF GREEN SYNTHESIS OF GOLD NANOPARTICLES: A REVIEW
Authors: Usman Adamu Ibrahim , Abdul Aziz Azlan , Abu Noqta Osama
Published: December 2018

The field of nanotechnology is advancing rapidly due to its extensive applications in distinct fields of science and technology. Several methods have been used for the production of nanoparticles due to their immense functions in various fields. The limitations of the traditional methods and their toxic nature of the chemicals used during the synthesis or in their application hinder their usage in the biomedical field. This led to the development of the green synthesis of nanoparticles. Researchers have focused on developing simple, cost-effective, clean, non-toxic and eco-friendly procedures for synthesis of nanoparticles. Various biological agents like bacteria, fungi, plant extracts, etc. are used for the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles due to their biocompatibility. The dissolved metals ions are reduced into nano-metals by bio-agent in the green process. The manners and protocols of the green synthesis of gold nanoparticles are presented in this review. Recent literature on green synthesis of noble gold nanoparticles with their various applications in biomedical, antifungal/antibacterial, drug delivery, sensors and photocatalytic have also been discussed.
WELDABILITY AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF DISSIMILAR AL-MGSI TO PURE ALUMINIUM AND AL-MG USING FRICTION STIR WELDING PROCESS
Authors: Mohd Selamat Nor Fazilah , Baghdadi Amir Hossein , Sajuri Zainuddin , Kokabi Amir Hossein
Published: December 2018

Friction stir welding (FSW) is a gateway for the implementation of a solid state joining method between two lightweight materials especially aluminium alloys. Dissimilar joints of aluminium alloys have an issue to be weld using the conventional fusion welding. In the present work, two types of dissimilar joints of aluminium alloys were welded as dissimilar butt joints using the FSW method. 5mm thick base metals, consist of AA1100, AA5083 and AA6061, were butt welded to dissimilar joints of AA6061-AA1100 and AA6061-AA5083. Similar welding parameter was used for both of the joints, in which 100 mm/min and 1000 rpm for transverse and rotation speed, respectively. Joints were successful with defect-free internally and externally. However, different flow patterns were observed in the stirred zone due to the different materials flow during the FSW process. The ultimate tensile strength of AA6061-AA1100 and AA6061-AA5083 are 93MPA and 113MPa. Thereby, the joint efficiency of AA6061-AA1100 and AA6061-AA5083 were 80% and 97% compared to AA6061 base metal, respectively.