bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utility of the Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment in Japanese patients with nursing‐ and healthcare‐associated pneumonia
Authors: Noguchi Shingo , Yatera Kazuhiro , Naito Keisuke , Hata Ryosuke , Kawanami Toshinori , Yamasaki Kei , Kato Tatsuji , Orihashi Takeshi , Inoue Naoyuki , Sakamoto Noriho , Yoshii Chiharu , Mukae Hiroshi
Published: December 2018

Aim

To clarify the utility of sepsis evaluation using the Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) tool in addition to the Pneumonia Severity Index (PSI); age, dehydration, respiration, orientation and blood pressure (A‐DROP) index; and immunodeficiency, respiration, orientation, age and dehydration (I‐ROAD) scoring systems, and risk factor evaluation of potentially drug‐resistant (PDR) pathogens are suggested in the 2017 guidelines for pneumonia of the Japanese Respiratory Society in nursing‐ and healthcare‐associated pneumonia patients.

Methods

We included 289 hospitalized nursing‐ and healthcare‐associated pneumonia patients between April 2016 and March 2017, and investigated the ability of PSI, A‐DROP, I‐ROAD and qSOFA to predict pneumonia‐related mortality. We also evaluated the associations among the risk factors for PDR pathogens, the detection ratio of PDR pathogens and pneumonia‐related mortality.

Results

The mortality rate of pneumonia during hospitalization was 6.9% (20/289). The area under the curve for pneumonia‐related mortality predicted using PSI, A‐DROP, I‐ROAD and qSOFA was 0.697 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59–0.80), 0.63 (95% CI 0.51–0.76), 0.61 (95% CI 0.52–0.70) and 0.701 (95% CI 0.59–0.81), respectively. In addition, higher areas under the curve were observed for pneumonia‐related mortality predicted according to a combination of PSI and hypoalbuminemia (<2.5 g/dL) (0.75, 95% CI 0.64–0.86), and qSOFA and hypoalbuminemia (0.74, 95% CI 0.62–0.86) than for PSI and qSOFA alone. No significant associations were observed among the risk factors for PDR pathogens, the detection ratios of PDR pathogens and pneumonia‐related mortality.

Conclusions

qSOFA and the combination of qSOFA and hypoalbuminemia might be simple and useful evaluation tools for predicting pneumonia‐related mortality in nursing‐ and healthcare‐associated pneumonia patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 177–183.
Correlation of cell‐surface CD8 levels with function, phenotype and transcriptome of naive CD8 T cells
Authors: Balyan Renu , Gund Rupali , Chawla Amanpreet Singh , Khare Satyajeet P. , Pradhan Saurabh J. , Rane Sanket , Galande Sanjeev , Durdik Jeannine Marie , George Anna , Bal Vineeta , Rath Satyajit
Published: December 2018

We have previously demonstrated co‐receptor level‐associated functional heterogeneity in apparently homogeneous naive peripheral CD4 T cells, dependent on MHC‐mediated tonic signals. Maturation pathways can differ between naive CD4 and naive CD8 cells, so we tested whether the latter showed similar co‐receptor level‐associated functional heterogeneity. We report that, when either polyclonal and T‐cell receptor (TCR)‐transgenic monoclonal peripheral naive CD8 T cells from young mice were separated into CD8hi and CD8lo subsets, CD8lo cells responded poorly, but CD8hi and CD8lo subsets of CD8 single‐positive (SP) thymocytes responded similarly. CD8lo naive CD8 T cells were smaller and showed lower levels of some cell‐surface molecules, but higher levels of the negative regulator CD5. In addition to the expected peripheral decline in CD8 levels on transferred naive CD8 T cells in wild‐type (WT) but not in MHC class I‐deficient recipient mice, short‐duration naive T‐cell–dendritic cell (DC) co‐cultures in vitro also caused co‐receptor down‐modulation in CD8 T cells but not in CD4 T cells. Constitutive pZAP70/pSyk and pERK levels ex vivo were lower in CD8lo naive CD8 T cells and dual‐specific phosphatase inhibition partially rescued their hypo‐responsiveness. Bulk mRNA sequencing showed major differences in the transcriptional landscapes of CD8hi and CD8lo naive CD8 T cells. CD8hi naive CD8 T cells showed enrichment of genes involved in positive regulation of cell cycle and survival. Our data show that naive CD8 T cells show major differences in their signaling, transcriptional and functional landscapes associated with subtly altered CD8 levels, consistent with the possibility of peripheral cellular aging.
Does the choice in valuation method matter in the judicial appraisal of private firms?
Authors: Saastamoinen Jani , Savolainen Hanna
Published: December 2018

This paper investigates empirical relations between the redemption values of minority shares and valuation methods used by dissenting parties in the judicial valuation of private firms. We examine a comprehensive data set of Finnish judicial appraisal cases in which the judge decides the valuation of the minority stake in a private firm after learning the valuation estimates put forward by the controlling shareholder(s) and the minority shareholder(s). Rationality in valuation will be achieved if a valuation estimate incorporates all the available information regardless of the valuation method adopted. Conversely, the measurement perspective argues that biases inherent in valuation approaches determine the information content in a valuation estimate. Our statistical analyses suggest that the choices made concerning the valuation method are statistically correlated with the appraisal outcomes. We interpret this as evidence consistent with the measurement perspective.
Riata lead failure in pediatric and congenital heart disease patients
Authors: Escudero Carolina A. , Mah Douglas Y. , Miyake Christina Y. , Stephenson Elizabeth A. , LaPage Martin J. , Kubuš Peter , I. Cohen Mitchell , Atallah Joseph
Published: December 2018

Background

Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) lead failures occur at higher rates in pediatric and congenital heart disease (CHD) patients.

Objective

To determine the rate and timing of Riata lead failure in pediatric and CHD patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective, multicenter cohort study of pediatric patients and adults with CHD with implantation of a Riata or Riata ST lead between 2002 and 2009. The prevalence and timing of electrical failure and conductor coil externalization (CCE) were determined.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients and 63 leads from seven centers were included. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) age at implant was 14.4 (11.5‐18.7) years and median follow‐up was 8.7 (7.3‐11.1) years. The underlying diagnosis was a primary arrhythmia disorder in 45%, cardiomyopathy in 31%, and CHD in 28% of patients. Electrical failure occurred in 43% and CCE in 16% of leads at median lead ages of 4.7 (3.4‐7.5) and 4.3 (3.9‐7.0) years, respectively. Median lead survival free from electrical failure or CCE was 7.9 (95% confidence interval, 5.8‐10.0) years. Forty‐one percent of leads were functional at the end of the follow‐up period, and 33% were extracted with a complication rate of 5%.

Conclusions

The rate of Riata lead electrical failure was high in children and patients with CHD, while the rate of CCE was comparable with published data. Counseling on lead management should factor in the high rate of electrical failure with considerations for elective replacement.
Prenatal hypoxia plus postnatal high‐fat diet exacerbated vascular dysfunction via up‐regulated vascular Cav1.2 channels in offspring rats
Authors: Li Xiang , Feng Xueqin , Lu Likui , He Axin , Liu Bailin , Zhang Yingying , Shi Ruixiu , Liu Yanping , Chen Xueyi , Sun Miao , Xu Zhice
Published: December 2018

Background

This study aimed to examine whether and how postnatal high‐fat diet had additional impact on promoting vascular dysfunction in the offspring exposed to prenatal hypoxia.

Methods and Results

Pregnant Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly assigned to hypoxia (10.5% oxygen) or normoxia (21% O2) groups from gestation days 5‐21. A subset of male offspring was placed on a high‐fat diet (HF, 45% fat) from 4‐16 weeks of age. Prenatal hypoxia induced a decrease in birth weight. In offspring‐fed HF diet, prenatal hypoxia was associated with increased fasting plasma triglyceride, total cholesterol, free fatty acids, and low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol. Compared with the other three groups, prenatal hypoxic offspring with high‐fat diet showed a significant increase in blood pressure, phenylephrine‐mediated vasoconstrictions, L‐type voltage‐gated Ca2+ (Cav1.2) channel currents, and elevated mRNA and protein expression of Cav1.2 α1 subunit in mesenteric arteries or myocytes. The large‐conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ (BK) channels currents and the BK channel units (β1, not α‐subunits) were significantly increased in mesenteric arteries or myocytes in HF offspring independent of prenatal hypoxia factor.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that prenatal hypoxia followed by postnatal HF caused vascular dysfunction through ion channel remodelling in myocytes.
Editorial: ‘It's a family affair’ – the social drivers of child and adolescent resilience
Authors: Sonuga‐Barke Edmund J. S.
Published: December 2018

Studies of risk and vulnerability processes may provide important ways of identifying new treatment targets – based on the principle that mending something is much easier if you know in what way it is broken. However, in our field, knowing its source may not always tell us about how to remediate impairment. Studies focusing on resilience may be more informative from this perspective. In this editorial I discuss four papers that highlight the value of resilience studies from a translational perspective – in particular contrasting the strengths and limitations of observational and experimental designs.
Physiological and pathophysiological roles of hypothalamic astrocytes in metabolism
Authors: Chowen Julie A. , Frago Laura M. , Fernández‐Alfonso María Soledad
Published: December 2018

The role of glial cells, including astrocytes, in metabolic control has received increasing attention in recent years. Although the original interest in these macroglial cells was a result of astrogliosis being observed in the hypothalamus of diet‐induced obese subjects, studies have also focused on how they participate in the physiological control of appetite and energy expenditure. Astrocytes express receptors for numerous hormones, growth factors and neuropeptides. Some functions of astrocytes include transport of nutrients and hormones from the circulation to the brain, storage of glycogen, participation in glucose sensing, synaptic plasticity, uptake and metabolism of neurotransmitters, release of substances to modify neurotransmission, and cytokine production, amongst others. In the hypothalamus, these physiological glial functions impact on neuronal circuits that control systemic metabolism to modify their outputs. The initial response of astrocytes to poor dietary habits and obesity involves activation of neuroprotective mechanisms but, with chronic exposure to these situations, hypothalamic astrocytes participate in the development of some of the damaging secondary effects. The present review discusses not only some of the physiological functions of hypothalamic astrocytes in metabolism, but also their role in the secondary complications of obesity, such as insulin resistance and cardiovascular affectations.
Needs and Experiences of Family Caregivers of Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders Across the Lifespan
Authors: Shivers Carolyn M. , Sonnier‐Netto Libbie , Lee Gloria K.
Published: December 2018

Both service needs and needs of the caregiver may differ across the lifespan for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As individuals with ASD age, they may need different services, which can place different burdens on the family. The present study aimed to determine the needs of both the individual with ASD and the family caregiver across the lifespan, as well as what experiences are important to families that may not be captured by quantitative measures. Data for the present study were taken from a large, online survey of family members of individuals with ASD. Participants were primarily mothers, with children ranging from early childhood to adulthood. The survey used a list of various services that could be used by individuals with ASD and the Family Needs Questionnaire to examine service needs and usage. Service needs and usage were compared by age category (childhood, adolescence, and adulthood). Most categories of service needs and usage differed by age, although the percentage of unmet service needs was quite high across all ages. Family members of adolescents or adults tended to report fewer individual needs than did family members of children. In open‐ended responses, families frequently discussed lack of services, worry about the future, and challenges with family and social relationships. Overall findings indicate a still‐high level of unmet service needs for individuals with ASD and their families. Although most basic health needs are met, more specific needs, such as therapy services and employment services, are received by comparatively few families. This has the potential to negatively impact families as the child with ASD ages, despite caregivers reporting fewer personal needs for older individuals.
Temperature × light interaction and tolerance of high water temperature in the planktonic freshwater flagellates Cryptomonas (Cryptophyceae) and Dinobryon (Chrysophyceae)
Authors: Wirth Christina , Limberger Romana , Weisse Thomas
Published: December 2018

Using microcosm experiments, we investigated the interactive effects of temperature and light on specific growth rates of three species each of the phytoplanktonic genera Cryptomonas and Dinobryon. Several species of these genera play important roles in the food web of lakes and seem to be sensitive to high water temperature. We measured growth rates at three to four photon flux densities ranging from 10 to 240 μmol photon · m−2 · s−1 and at 4–5 temperatures ranging from 10°C to 28°C. The temperature × light interaction was generally strong, species specific, and also genus specific. Five of the six species studied tolerated 25°C when light availability was high; however, low light reduced tolerance of high temperatures. Growth rates of all six species were unaffected by temperature in the 10°C–15°C range at light levels ≤50 μmol photon · m−2 · s−1. At high light, growth rates of Cryptomonas spp. increased with temperature until the temperature optimum was reached and then declined. The Dinobryon species were less sensitive than Cryptomonas spp. to photon flux densities of 40 μmol photon · m−2 · s−1 and 200 μmol photon · m−2 · s−1 over the entire temperature range but did not grow under a combination of very low light (10 μmol photon · m−2 · s−1) and high temperature (≥20°C). Among the three Cryptomonas species, cell volume declined with temperature and the maximum temperature tolerated was negatively related to cell size. Since Cryptomonas is important food for microzooplankton, these trends may affect the pelagic carbon flow if lake warming continues.
Inhibition of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Mycobacterium tuberculosis disulfide bond forming enzymes
Authors: Landeta Cristina , McPartland Laura , Tran Ngoc Q. , Meehan Brian M. , Zhang Yifan , Tanweer Zaidi , Wakabayashi Shoko , Rock Jeremy , Kim Taehyun , Balasubramanian Deepak , Audette Rebecca , Toosky Melody , Pinkham Jessica , Rubin Eric J. , Lory Stephen , Pier Gerald , Boyd Dana , Beckwith Jon
Published: December 2018

In bacteria, disulfide bonds confer stability on many proteins exported to the cell envelope or beyond, including bacterial virulence factors. Thus, proteins involved in disulfide bond formation represent good targets for the development of inhibitors that can act as antibiotics or anti‐virulence agents, resulting in the simultaneous inactivation of several types of virulence factors. Here, we present evidence that the disulfide bond forming enzymes, DsbB and VKOR, are required for Pseudomonas aeruginosa pathogenicity and Mycobacterium tuberculosis survival respectively. We also report the results of a HTS of 216,767 compounds tested against P. aeruginosa DsbB1 and M. tuberculosis VKOR using Escherichia coli cells. Since both P. aeruginosa DsbB1 and M. tuberculosis VKOR complement an E. coli dsbB knockout, we screened simultaneously for inhibitors of each complemented E. coli strain expressing a disulfide‐bond sensitive β‐galactosidase reported previously. The properties of several inhibitors obtained from these screens suggest they are a starting point for chemical modifications with potential for future antibacterial development.
The Analogia Entis as a Standard of Catholic Engagement: Erich Przywara's Critique of Phenomenology and Dialectical Theology
Authors: Betz John R.
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this article is to introduce the reader to the twentieth‐century Jesuit, Erich Przywara (1889‐1972), who was arguably the most brilliant and prolific Catholic philosopher, theologian, cultural and literary critic of the 1920s and 1930s, but is known today more by association with his friend Edith Stein or his protégé Hans Urs von Balthasar than for anything he wrote. Rather than focusing on any single work, however, this article focuses on his early understanding of the analogia entis as a synthesis of the teaching of Augustine, Thomas, and the IV Lateran Council, and on his subsequent deployment of the analogia entis as a Catholic standard in response to the dialectical theology of the early Barth and the phenomenology of Husserl, Scheler, and Heidegger, respectively. Looking back to Vatican I and anticipating Vatican II, it is clear that Przywara was in the vanguard of the Catholic Church’s engagement with the modern world. What remains to be considered today, aside from his immense contribution to modern theology, is the merit of his responses to Barth and Heidegger at this time, e.g., his claim that dialectical theology, instead of being a corrective to modernity, was only a symptom of its fundamental imbalance, and that phenomenology, rather than overcoming or displacing a Catholic metaphysics of the analogia entis, is fulfilled in the ontological openness signified by it.
Genotype‐dependent regulation of vitamin E biosynthesis in olive fruits as revealed through metabolic and transcriptional profiles
Authors: Georgiadou E. C. , Koubouris G. , Goulas V. , Sergentani C. , Nikoloudakis N. , Manganaris G. A. , Kalaitzis P. , Fotopoulos V.
Published: December 2018

Vitamin E is a general term used to describe a group of eight lipophilic compounds known as tocochromanols. These vitamin E variants are chemically categorised into two classes formed by α‐, β‐, γ‐ and δ‐ tocopherols and tocotrienols isoforms, respectively.

The present study describes the concurrent regulation of genes and metabolites orchestrating vitamin E biosynthesis in olive drupes of five distinctive Greek olive cultivars. A combination of analytical, biochemical and molecular approaches was employed in order to carry out comparative analyses, including real‐time RT‐qPCR for gene expression levels and HPLC analysis of metabolite content.

Findings indicated that tocochromanol levels and composition, oil content, gene expression levels as well as total antioxidant activity were highly dependent on cultivar and, to a lesser extent, on fruit developmental stage. Specifically, cultivars ‘Kalokairida’ and ‘Lianolia Kerkyras’ demonstrated the highest vitamin E content. The latter possessed high tocochromanol content combined with highest overall antioxidant activity in all developmental stages, concomitant with the up‐regulation expression profile of HPPD.

The genotypic imprint versus the temporal contribution to vitamin E levels, as well as the potential link to lipid peroxidation amelioration, are discussed.
Temperature thresholds for germination in 20 short‐range endemic plant species from a Greenstone Belt in southern Western Australia
Authors: Cochrane A.
Published: December 2018

The study of climate‐driven effects on seed traits such as germination has gained momentum over the past decade as the impact of global warming becomes more apparent on the health and survival of plant diversity.

Seed response to warming was evaluated in a suite of short‐range endemic species from the biodiverse Greenstone Belt of southern Western Australia. The temperature dimensions for germination in 20 woody perennials were identified using small unreplicated samples over 6 weeks on a temperature gradient plate (constant and fluctuating temperatures between 5 and 40 °C). These data were subsequently modelled against current and forecast (2070) mean monthly minimum and maximum temperatures to illustrate seasonal changes to germination timing and final percentage germination.

All but one species attained full germination in at least one cell on the gradient plate. Modelling of the data suggested only minimal changes to percentage germination despite a forecast rise in diurnal temperatures over the next 50 years. Nine species were predicted to experience declines of between <1% and 7%, whilst 11 species were predicted to increase their germination by <1% to 3%. Overall, the speed of germination is predicted to increase but the timing of germination for most species shifts seasonally (both advances and delays) as a result of changing diurnal temperatures.

The capacity of this suite of species to cope with warmer temperatures during a critical early life stage shows a degree of adaptation to heterogeneous environments. Predicting the effects of global change on terrestrial plant communities is crucial to managing and conserving plant diversity.
Electrophysiology as a theoretical and methodological hub for the neural sciences
Authors: Cavanagh James F.
Published: December 2018

Electrophysiology is a direct measure of neuronal processes, and it is uniquely sensitive to canonical neural operations that underlie emergent psychological operations. These qualities make it well suited for discovery of aberrant neural mechanisms that underlie complicated disease states. This technique is routinely utilized in vitro, in vivo, and in outpatient neurological clinics, offering a translatable bridge between animal models and human patients. The bench‐to‐bedside potential of this approach is unparalleled, yet it also remains undeveloped due to the slow inertia of legacy techniques and interpretations. In this review, I discuss these strengths of the method, and I detail compelling reasons why future advancements can have a direct and tangible influence over clinical practice. I hope to motivate a blurring of traditional boundaries between preclinical, computational, imaging, and clinical fields by advancing electrophysiology as a common hub for methodological integration and theoretical advancement.
Pharmacokinetics and important drug–drug interactions to remember when treating advanced chronic kidney disease patients with hepatitis C direct acting anti‐viral therapy
Authors: Cohen Elizabeth , Liapakis AnnMarie
Published: December 2018

Hepatitis C direct acting antiviral (DAA) therapy has evolved so that infected patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) can now anticipate the opportunity for sustained virologic response equivalent to that of the broader population of patients with hepatitis C. This has revolutionized the field of transplantation as it relates to renal transplant candidates with hepatitis C and the use of grafts from hepatitis C virus (HCV) viremic donors. In treating this population of patients, special consideration must be given to the timing of anti‐viral therapy and drug–drug interactions. Herein we review the pharmacokinetics of HCV DAA therapy in the setting of CKD and chronic renal replacement therapy. Highlighted are drug/drug interactions with special attention to therapies utilized in advanced CKD and immunosuppressants.
The six dimensions of parenting and adolescent psychological adjustment: The mediating role of psychological needs
Authors: Costa Sebastiano , Sireno Simona , Larcan Rosalba , Cuzzocrea Francesca
Published: December 2018

In accordance with the Self‐determination Theory (SDT), six dimensions of parenting (autonomy support vs. psychological control, structure vs. chaos, warmth vs. rejection) could be defined in their relation to adolescents’ adjustment. However, the mechanisms of these relations need to be further deepened. In accordance with SDT, the aims of this study were: (1) to examine the relationships between the six dimensions of parenting and the three psychological basic needs; (2) to examine the mediation role of basic psychological needs in the relation between parental practices, and positive and negative outcomes in a sample of Italian adolescents. In a sample of 342 adolescents, results suggest that supportive parenting practice (autonomy support, structure, and warmth) promotes need fulfillment and adjustment, while thwarting parenting practice (psychological control, chaos, and rejection) reduces need fulfillment and adjustment. Furthermore, the three psychological basic needs (autonomy, competence and relatedness) mediate the relations between parenting and adolescents’ adjustment. These findings highlight the role of parenting in adolescents’ adjustment and in line with SDT provide evidence of the dynamic between parenting, psychological needs and adjustment.
What is so frightening about spiders? Self‐rated and self‐disclosed impact of different characteristics and associations with phobia symptoms
Authors: Lindner Philip , Miloff Alexander , Reuterskiöld Lena , Andersson Gerhard , Carlbring Per
Published: December 2018

Spider phobia is a common and impairing mental disorder, yet little is known about what characteristics of spiders that spider phobic individuals find frightening. Using screening data from a clinical trial, we explored which characteristics that spider‐fearful individuals (n = 194) rated as having the greatest impact on fear, used factor analysis to group specific characteristics, and explored linear associations with self‐reported phobia symptoms. Second, a guided text‐mining approach was used to extract the most common words in free‐text responses to the question: “What is it about spiders that you find frightening?” Both analysis types suggested that movement‐related characteristics of spiders were the most important, followed by appearance characteristics. There were, however, no linear associations with degree of phobia symptoms. Our findings reveal the importance of targeting movement‐related fears in in‐vivo exposure therapy for spider phobia and using realistically animated spider stimuli in computer‐based experimental paradigms and clinical interventions such as Virtual Reality exposure therapy.
Human tularaemia associated with exposure to domestic dogs—United States, 2006–2016
Authors: Kwit Natalie A. , Schwartz Amy , Kugeler Kiersten J. , Mead Paul S. , Nelson Christina A.
Published: December 2018

Dogs have been implicated in the zoonotic transmission of numerous pathogens. Whereas cats are known to transmit Francisella tularensis to humans via bite and other routes, the role of dogs in facilitating infection is much less understood. We reviewed tularaemia case investigation records collected through national surveillance during 2006–2016 to summarize those with dog involvement, characterize the nature of dog‐related exposure and describe associated clinical characteristics. Among 1,814 human tularaemia cases, 735 (41%) supplemental case investigation records were available for review; and of those, 24 (3.3%) were classified as dog‐related. Median age of patients was 51 years (range: 1–82); 54% were female. Two thirds (67%) of cases presented with ulceroglandular/glandular tularaemia; pneumonic (13%) and oropharyngeal (13%) illness occurred less frequently. Dog‐related exposures were classified as follows: direct contact via bite, scratch or face snuggling/licking (n = 12; 50%); direct contact with dead animals retrieved by domestic dogs (n = 8; 33%); and contact with infected ticks acquired from domestic dogs (n = 4; 17%). Prevention of dog‐related tularaemia necessitates enhanced tularaemia awareness and tick avoidance among pet owners, veterinarians, health care providers and the general public.
Effects of 6-Week Resistance Elastic Band Exercise on Functional Performances of 8-9 Year-Old Children
Authors: Özsu İlbilge
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of 6-week exercises performed by elastic resistance band on functional performance (balance, agility, hand grip strength and flexibility) in children aged 8-9 years. So, 102 students participated in this study according to pre-test and post-test design. Participants were divided into two groups: experimental group (n=50, height: 134.0 ± 6.3 cm, mass: 30.9 ± 7.9 kg, age: 8.6 ± 0.5 years) and control group (n=52, height: 135.0 ± 6.2 cm, mass: 32.4 ± 5.9 kg, age: 8.6 ± 0.6 years). The experimental group performed exercises using elastic resistance bands of lightness grade at the same time of day (45 minutes/day, 3 days/week), and the control group did not participate in any physical activity. Balance was measured by Flamingo Test, agility by Ilinois, flexibility by sit and reach box and strength was measured by hand-grip dynamometer. It was determined that 6-week exercises performed by elastic resistance band increased significantly the hand grip strength; however there was no statistically significant effect on balance, agility and flexibility abilities.The inclusion of elastic resistance band exercises in the context of school activity programs can improve children's strengths. For this reason, exercises performed by elastic resistance bands for more than 6 weeks can be added to activity programs in school as an economical, fun and reliable way to improve the hand-grip performance of children.
Identifying the Target Needs of Preparatory Classes for UndergraduatePrograms in Foreign Languages: A Case Study of the Engineering Departments
Authors: Kahramanoglu Recep , Aslan Emre , Yilmaz Islim Derya , Odabas Ceyla , Tekerek Suleyman , Oflaz Okkes
Published: December 2018

The aim of this study is to identify the target needs of preparatory classes for undergraduate programs which teach in foreign languages, in English. The differences between the target needs and the current level of the students constitute the subject of this study. The discrepancy model has been used as the need identification approach. In the discrepancy model, firstly the needs are identified, and then the deficiencies and current level are found. The study was formed in the qualitative research model and nineteen lecturers were included in the study to identify the needs of the study group. At the deficiencies and current level identification stage, the study group consisted of twenty three engineering students who has passed the preparatory class and are having the field courses. Furthermore, thirty two preparatory lecturers were also included in the study group to ascertain the current level. A structured interview form and a questionnaire were used as data collection tools. Data collected through interviews was analyzed with the content analysis method. Mean and standard deviation values were calculated in the analysis of the collected data. According to the study results, the students are equipped with general English skills in preparatory classes. It was also found that the students were given general English classes throughout the year, they focused on grammar and that students were provided with general speaking and writing skills for general subjects at a basic level. However, according to the views of students and lecturers who teaches in field courses, the gainings of preparatory English classes are not sufficient for the field courses. Students and lecturers are of the opinion that problems arise in the understanding and presentation of technical texts in English.
Induced in vivo knockdown of the Brca1 gene in skeletal muscle results in skeletal muscle weakness
Authors: Tarpey Michael D. , Valencia Ana P. , Jackson Kathryn C. , Amorese Adam J. , Balestrieri Nicholas P. , Renegar Randall H. , Pratt Stephen J. P. , Ryan Terence E. , McClung Joseph M. , Lovering Richard M. , Spangenburg Espen E.
Published: December 2018

Key points

Breast cancer 1 early onset gene codes for the DNA repair enzyme, breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein (BRCA1). The gene is prone to mutations that cause a loss of protein function.

BRCA1/Brca1 has recently been found to regulate several cellular pathways beyond DNA repair and is expressed in skeletal muscle.

Skeletal muscle specific knockout of Brca1 in mice caused a loss of muscle quality, identifiable by reductions in muscle force production and mitochondrial respiratory capacity.

Loss of muscle quality was associated with a shift in muscle phenotype and an accumulation of mitochondrial DNA mutations.

These results demonstrate that BRCA1 is necessary for skeletal muscle function and that increased mitochondrial DNA mutations may represent a potential underlying mechanism.

Recent evidence suggests that the breast cancer 1 early onset gene (BRCA1) influences numerous peripheral tissues, including skeletal muscle. The present study aimed to determine whether induced‐loss of the breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein (Brca1) alters skeletal muscle function. We induced genetic ablation of exon 11 in the Brca1 gene specifically in the skeletal muscle of adult mice to generate skeletal muscle‐specific Brca1 homozygote knockout (Brca1KOsmi) mice. Brca1KOsmi exhibited kyphosis and decreased maximal isometric force in limb muscles compared to age‐matched wild‐type mice. Brca1KOsmi skeletal muscle shifted toward an oxidative muscle fibre type and, in parallel, increased myofibre size and reduced capillary numbers. Unexpectedly, myofibre bundle mitochondrial respiration was reduced, whereas contraction‐induced lactate production was elevated in Brca1KOsmi muscle. Brca1KOsmi mice accumulated mitochondrial DNA mutations and exhibited an altered mitochondrial morphology characterized by distorted and enlarged mitochondria, and these were more susceptible to swelling. In summary, skeletal muscle‐specific loss of Brca1 leads to a myopathy and mitochondriopathy characterized by reductions in skeletal muscle quality and a consequent kyphosis. Given the substantial impact of BRCA1 mutations on cancer development risk in humans, a parallel loss of BRCA1 function in patient skeletal muscle cells would potentially result in implications for human health.
Modeling Deposition in Turbine Cooling Passages With Temperature-Dependent Adhesion and Mesh Morphing
Authors: Bowen Christopher P. , Libertowski Nathan D. , Mortazavi Mehdi , Bons Jeffrey P.
Published: December 2018

The role of temperature on deposition in gas turbine internal cooling geometries is investigated. Single impingement cones are developed by an oversized (6 mm) impinging jet over a range of temperatures and flow velocities using 0–5 μm Arizona road dust (ARD). Cone size was found to increase with increasing temperature and decrease with increasing velocity. Capture efficiency and cone angle effects are presented, and packing factor (PF) data are used as a metric to determine if the contact area (Acont) for adhesion explains the trends seen with temperature. It is systematically demonstrated that the surface free energy (γ) is likely a first-order function of temperature in internal deposition for the range of temperatures investigated. Candidate physical mechanisms that may cause increased adhesive force at elevated temperatures are identified. Temperature-dependent adhesion is added to the Ohio State University (OSU) deposition model which is then used with a simplified morphing approach to match temperature-induced blockage patterns in a vane leading edge cooling experiment. This process is improved upon using a full mesh morphing routine and matching two of the experimental deposition cones at varied flow temperatures. The added fidelity that mesh morphing affords is demonstrated.
Immediate phonetic convergence in a cue-distractor paradigm
Authors: Tobin Stephen , Hullebus Marc , Gafos Adamantios
Published: December 2018

During a cue-distractor task, participants repeatedly produce syllables prompted by visual cues. Distractor syllables are presented to participants via headphones 150 ms after the visual cue (before any response). The task has been used to demonstrate perceptuomotor integration effects (perception effects on production): response times (RTs) speed up as the distractor shares more phonetic properties with the response. Here it is demonstrated that perceptuomotor integration is not limited to RTs. Voice Onset Times (VOTs) of the distractor syllables were systematically varied and their impact on responses was measured. Results demonstrate trial-specific convergence of response syllables to VOT values of distractor syllables.
Oxazolidinones Can Replace Clarithromycin in Combination with Rifampin in a Mouse Model of Buruli Ulcer
Authors: Almeida Deepak V. , Omansen Till F. , Li Si-Yang , Lee Jin , Grosset Jacques H. , Converse Paul J. , Nuermberger Eric L.
Published: December 2018

Rifampin (RIF) plus clarithromycin (CLR) for 8 weeks is now the standard of care for Buruli ulcer (BU) treatment, but CLR may not be an ideal companion for rifamycins due to bidirectional drug-drug interactions. The oxazolidinone linezolid (LZD) was previously shown to be active against
Mycobacterium ulcerans
infection in mice but has dose- and duration-dependent toxicity in humans.
The Expanded Universe of Prokaryotic Argonaute Proteins
Authors: Ryazansky Sergei , Kulbachinskiy Andrey , Aravin Alexei A.
Published: December 2018

The eukaryotic Ago proteins and the RNA interference pathways they are involved in are widely used as a powerful tool in research and as potential therapeutics. In contrast, the properties and functions of prokaryotic Ago (pAgo) proteins have remained poorly understood. Understanding the diversity and functions of pAgos holds a huge potential for discovery of new cellular pathways and novel tools for genome manipulations. Only few pAgos have been characterized by structural or biochemical approaches, while previous genomic studies discovered about 300 proteins in archaeal and eubacterial genomes. Since that time the number of bacterial strains with sequenced genomes has greatly expanded, and many previously sequenced genomes have been revised. We undertook comprehensive analysis of pAgo proteins in sequenced genomes and almost tripled the number of known genes of this family. Our research thus forms a foundation for further experimental characterization of pAgo functions that will be important for understanding of the basic biology of these proteins and their adoption as a potential tool for genome engineering in the future.
Network-Guided Discovery of Influenza Virus Replication Host Factors
Authors: Ackerman Emily E. , Kawakami Eiryo , Katoh Manami , Watanabe Tokiko , Watanabe Shinji , Tomita Yuriko , Lopes Tiago J. , Matsuoka Yukiko , Kitano Hiroaki , Shoemaker Jason E. , Kawaoka Yoshihiro
Published: December 2018

Integrating virus-host interactions with host protein-protein interactions, we have created a method using these established network practices to identify host factors (i.e., proteins) that are likely candidates for antiviral drug targeting. We demonstrate that interaction cascades between host proteins that directly interact with viral proteins and host factors that are important to influenza virus replication are enriched for signaling and immune processes. Additionally, we show that host proteins that interact with viral proteins are in network locations of power. Finally, we demonstrate a new network methodology to predict novel host factors and validate predictions with an siRNA screen. Our results show that integrating virus-host proteins interactions is useful in the identification of antiviral drug target candidates.
A New Mechanism for Ribosome Rescue Can Recruit RF1 or RF2 to Nonstop Ribosomes
Authors: Goralski Tyler D. P. , Kirimanjeswara Girish S. , Keiler Kenneth C.
Published: December 2018

Francisella tularensis
is a highly infectious intracellular pathogen that kills more than half of infected humans if left untreated.
F. tularensis
has also been classified as a potential bioterrorism agent with a great risk for deliberate misuse. Recently, compounds that inhibit ribosome rescue have been shown to have antibiotic activity against
F. tularensis
and other important pathogens. Like all bacteria that have been studied,
F. tularensis
uses
trans
-translation as the main pathway to rescue stalled ribosomes. However, unlike most bacteria,
F. tularensis
can survive without any of the known factors for ribosome rescue. Our work identified a
F. tularensis
protein, ArfT, that rescues stalled ribosomes in the absence of
trans
-translation using a new mechanism. These results indicate that ribosome rescue activity is essential in
F. tularensis
and suggest that ribosome rescue activity might be essential in all bacteria.
In-hospital dementia-related deaths following implementation of the national dementia plan: observational study of national death certificates from 1996 to 2016
Authors: Nakanishi Miharu , Yamasaki Syudo , Nishida Atsushi
Published: December 2018

Objective

To examine changes in places of dementia-related death following implementation of the national dementia plan and other policy initiatives.

Design

Observational study.

Setting

Japan between October 1996 and September 2016. Four major changes in health and social care systems were identified: (1) the public long-term care insurance programme (April 2000); (2) community centres as a first access point for older residents (April 2006); (3) medical care system for older people (April 2008) and (4) the national dementia plan (April 2013).

Participants

9 60 423 decedents aged 65 years or older whose primary cause of death was Alzheimer’s disease, vascular or other types of dementia or senility.

Main outcome measures

Place of death which was classified into ‘hospital’, ‘intermediate geriatric care facility’ (rehabilitation facility aimed at home discharge), ‘nursing home’ or ‘own home’.

Results

The annual number of deaths at hospital was consistently increased over time from 1996 to 2016 (age-adjusted OR: 6.01; 95% CI 5.81 to 6.21 versus home deaths). Controlling for individual characteristics, regional supply of hospital and nursing home beds and other changes in health and social care systems, death from dementia following the national dementia plan was likely to occur in hospital (adjusted OR: 1.21; 95% CI 1.18 to 1.24), intermediate geriatric care facility (adjusted OR: 1.53; 95% CI 1.48 to 1.58) or nursing home (adjusted OR: 1.64; 95% CI 1.60 to 1.69) rather than at home.

Conclusions

As the number of deaths from dementia increased over the decades, in-hospital deaths increased regardless of the national dementia plan. Further strategies should be explored to improve the availability of palliative and end-of-life care at patients’ places of residence.
Exploring patient-reported outcomes of home-based cardiac rehabilitation in relation to Scottish, UK and European guidelines: an audit using qualitative methods
Authors: Ranaldi Hannah , Deighan Carolyn , Taylor Louise
Published: December 2018

Objectives

The Heart Manual (HM) is the UK’s leading facilitated home-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programme for individuals recovering from myocardial infarction and revascularisation. This audit explored patient-reported outcomes of home-based CR in relation to current Scottish, UK and European guidelines.

Setting

Patients across the UK returned their questionnaire after completing the HM programme to the HM Department (NHS Lothian).

Participants

Qualitative data from 457 questionnaires returned between 2011 and 2018 were included for thematic analysis. Seven themes were identified from the guidelines. This guided initial deductive coding and provided the basis for inductive subthemes to emerge.

Results

Themes included: (1) health behaviour change and modifiable risk reduction, (2) psychosocial support, (3) education, (4) social support, (5) medical risk management, (6) vocational rehabilitation and (7) long-term strategies and maintenance. Both (1) and (2) were reported as having the greatest impact on patients' daily lives. Subthemes for (1) included: guidance, engagement, awareness, consequences, attitude, no change and motivation. Psychosocial support comprised: stress management, pacing, relaxation, increased self-efficacy, validation, mental health and self-perception. This was followed by (3) and (4). Patients less frequently referred to (5), (6) and (7). Additional themes highlighted the impact of the HM programme and that patients attributed the greatest impact to a combination of all the above themes.

Conclusions

This audit highlighted the HM as comprehensive and inclusive of key elements proposed by Scottish, UK and EU guidelines. Patients reported this had a profound impact on their daily lives and proved advantageous for CR.
Interventions targeted at health professionals to reduce unnecessary caesarean sections: a qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Kingdon Carol , Downe Soo , Betran Ana Pilar
Published: December 2018

Objective

To establish the views and experiences of healthcare professionals in relation to interventions targeted at them to reduce unnecessary caesareans.

Design

Qualitative evidence synthesis.

Setting

Studies undertaken in high-income, middle-income and low-income settings.

Data sources

Seven databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, Embase, Global Index Medicus, POPLINE and African Journals Online). Studies published between 1985 and June 2017, with no language or geographical restrictions. We hand-searched reference lists and key citations using Google Scholar.

Study selection

Qualitative or mixed-method studies reporting health professionals’ views.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two authors independently assessed study quality prior to extraction of primary data and authors’ interpretations. The data were compared and contrasted, then grouped into summary of findings (SoFs) statements, themes and a line of argument synthesis. All SoFs were Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative research (GRADE-CERQual) assessed.

Results

17 papers were included, involving 483 health professionals from 17 countries (nine high-income, six middle-income and two low-income). Fourteen SoFs were identified, resulting in three core themes: philosophy of birth(four SoFs); (2)social and cultural context(five SoFs); and (3)negotiation within system(five SoFs). The resulting line of argument suggests three key mechanisms of effect for change or resistance to change: prior beliefs about birth; willingness or not to engage with change, especially where this entailed potential loss of income or status (including medicolegal barriers); and capacity or not to influence local community and healthcare service norms and values relating to caesarean provision.

Conclusion

For maternity care health professionals, there is a synergistic relationship between their underpinning philosophy of birth, the social and cultural context they are working within and the extent to which they were prepared to negotiate within health system resources to reduce caesarean rates. These findings identify potential mechanisms of effect that could improve the design and efficacy of change programmes to reduce unnecessary caesareans.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42017059455.