bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An alternative renin isoform is cardioprotective by modulating mitochondrial metabolism
Authors: Wanka Heike , Lutze Philipp , Staar Doreen , Grunow Bianka , Peters Barbara S. , Peters Jörg
Published: September 2018

The renin‐angiotensin system promotes oxidative stress, apoptosis, necrosis, fibrosis, and thus heart failure. Secretory renin plays a central role in these processes, initiating the generation of angiotensins. Nevertheless, alternative renin transcripts exist, which code for a cytosolically localized renin isoform (cyto‐renin) that is cardioprotective. We tested the hypothesis that the protective effects are associated with a beneficial switch of metabolic and mitochondrial functions. To assess H9c2 cell mitochondrial parameters, we used the Seahorse XF analyser. Cardiac H9c2 cells overexpressing cyto‐renin exhibited enhanced nonmitochondrial oxygen consumption, lactate accumulation, and LDH activity, reflecting a switch to more aerobic glycolysis known as Warburg effect. Additionally, mitochondrial spare capacity and cell respiratory control ratio were enhanced, indicating an increased potential to tolerate stress conditions. Renin knockdown induced opposite effects on mitochondrial functions without influencing metabolic parameters. Thus, the protective effects of cyto‐renin are associated with an altered bioenergetic profile and an enhanced stress tolerance, which are favourable under ischaemic conditions. Therefore, cyto‐renin is a promising new target for the prevention of ischaemia‐induced myocardial damage.
C5aR1 interacts with TLR2 in osteoblasts and stimulates the osteoclast‐inducing chemokine CXCL10
Authors: Mödinger Yvonne , Rapp Anna , Pazmandi Julia , Vikman Anna , Holzmann Karlheinz , Haffner‐Luntzer Melanie , Huber‐Lang Markus , Ignatius Anita
Published: September 2018

The anaphylatoxin C5a is generated upon activation of the complement system, a crucial arm of innate immunity. C5a mediates proinflammatory actions via the C5a receptor C5aR1 and thereby promotes host defence, but also modulates tissue homeostasis. There is evidence that the C5a/C5aR1 axis is critically involved both in physiological bone turnover and in inflammatory conditions affecting bone, including osteoarthritis, periodontitis, and bone fractures. C5a induces the migration and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines of osteoblasts. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Therefore, in this study we aimed to determine C5a‐mediated downstream signalling in osteoblasts. Using a whole‐genome microarray approach, we demonstrate that C5a activates mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and regulates the expression of genes involved in pathways related to insulin, transforming growth factor‐β and the activator protein‐1 transcription factor. Interestingly, using coimmunoprecipitation, we found an interaction between C5aR1 and Toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR2) in osteoblasts. The C5aR1‐ and TLR2‐signalling pathways converge on the activation of p38 MAPK and the generation of C‐X‐C motif chemokine 10, which functions, among others, as an osteoclastogenic factor. In conclusion, C5a‐stimulated osteoblasts might modulate osteoclast activity and contribute to immunomodulation in inflammatory bone disorders.
High glucose‐induced complement component 3 up‐regulation via RAGE‐p38MAPK‐NF‐κB signalling in astrocytes: In vivo and in vitro studies
Authors: Zhao Yuxing , Luo Cheng , Chen Jinliang , Sun Yue , Pu Die , Lv Ankang , Zhu Shiyu , Wu Jing , Wang Meili , Zhou Jing , Liao Zhiyin , Zhao Kexiang , Xiao Qian
Published: September 2018

Diabetes is considered as a risk for cognitive decline, which is characterized by neurodegenerative alteration and innate immunity activation. Recently, complement 3 (C3), the critical central component of complement system, has been reported to play a key role in neurodegenerative alterations under pathological condition. Receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) activation is confirmed to mediate several inflammatory cytokines production. However, whether C3 activation participates in the diabetic neuropathology and whether this process is regulated by RAGE activation remains unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the role of C3 in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic mice and high glucose‐induced primary astrocytes and the underlying modulatory mechanisms. The decreased synaptophysin density and increased C3 deposition at synapses were observed in the diabetic brain compared to the control brain. Furthermore, the elevated C3 was co‐localized with GFAP‐positive astrocytes in the diabetic brain slice in vivo and high glucose‐induced astrocytes culture in vitro. Diabetes/high glucose‐induced up‐regulation of C3 expression at gene, protein and secretion levels, which were attenuated by pre‐treatment with RAGE, p38MAPK and NF‐κB inhibitors separately. These results demonstrate that high glucose induces C3 up‐regulation via RAGE‐ p38MAPK‐NF‐κB signalling in vivo and in vitro, which might be associated with synaptic protein loss.
Assessment of multiple stressors on the growth of larval green sturgeon Acipenser medirostris: implications for recruitment of early life‐history stages
Authors: Poletto Jamilynn B. , Martin Benjamin , Danner Eric , Baird Sarah E. , Cocherell Dennis E. , Hamda Natnael , Cech, Jr Joseph J , Fangue Nann A.
Published: September 2018

Early developmental stages of fishes are particularly sensitive to changes in environmental variables that affect physiological processes such as metabolism and growth. Both temperature and food availability have significant effects on the growth and survival of larval and juvenile fishes. As climate change and anthropogenic disturbances influence sensitive rearing environments of fishes it is unlikely that they will experience changes in temperature or food availability in isolation. Therefore, it is critical that we determine the effects of each of these potential stressors on larval growth and development, as well as understand the additive, synergistic or antagonistic effects of both. We reared threatened green sturgeon Acipenser medirostris (initial age ca. 32 days post hatch) at four temperatures (11, 13, 16 and 19°C) and two food availability rates (100% and 40% of optimal) to assess the effects of these stressors and their interactions on larval growth. We compared the overall size (fork length, total length and mass), growth rates (cm day−1 and g day−1) and relative condition factor of these larval and juvenile fish at 3 week intervals for up to 12 weeks. Our results indicated that temperature and food availability both had significant effects on growth and condition and that there was a significant interaction between the two. Fish reared with limited food availability exhibited similar patterns in growth rates to those reared with elevated food rates, but the effects of temperature were greatly attenuated when fish were food‐limited. Also, the effects of temperature on condition were reversed when fish were reared with restricted food, such that fish reared at 19°C exhibited the highest relative condition when fed optimally, but the lowest relative condition when food was limited. These data are critical for the development of relevant bioenergetics models, which are needed to link the survival of larval sturgeons with historic environmental regimes, pinpoint temperature ranges for optimal survival and help target future restoration sites that will be important for the recovery of sturgeon populations.
Delayed timing of successful spawning of an estuarine dependent fish, black bream Acanthopagrus butcheri
Authors: Jenkins Gregory P. , Kent Julia A. , Woodland Ryan J. , Warry Fiona , Swearer Stephen E. , Cook Perran L. M.
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we investigate the period of successful spawning for black bream Acanthopagrus butcheri, an obligate estuarine species in southern Australia that typically spawn in spring and early summer. However, back‐calculated spawning dates of juveniles sampled in Gippsland Lakes, Victoria from February to May 2016 indicated that spawning was concentrated over a short period in the Austral mid‐summer (January), with a second spawning in late summer and early autumn (late February–early March). Ichthyoplankton sampling in the tributary estuaries from October to early December collected substantial numbers of fish larvae, dominated by gobiids, eleotrids and retropinnids of freshwater origin, but no A. butcheri. The lack of A. butcheri larvae was consistent with the delayed successful spawning indicated by juvenile otolith data. Freshwater flows declined from late winter to summer, with consistent salinity stratification of the water column. Dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations were generally very low below the halocline. These conditions may have delayed the upstream spawning migration of adults or may have been unsuitable for survival of eggs and newly‐hatched larvae. Longer‐term predictions for climate change in southern Victoria, including the Gippsland Lakes region, are for lower winter–spring freshwater flows, potentially benefiting the reproductive success of A. butcheri through high water‐column stratification, but only if DO concentrations are not compromised by a lack of high winter flows needed to flush low DO water from the system.
Anatomy and homology of the accessory electric organs of the toothless knifefishes (Rhamphichthyoidea: Gymnotiformes)
Authors: Giora Júlia , Carvalho Tiago P.
Published: September 2018

We describe the anatomy and histology of the accessory electric organs of several knifefish taxa. Accessory electric organs are observed among Rhamphichthyoidea in the opercular, mental and humeral regions. Within this group, some species of Brachyhypopomus possess an accessory electric organ in the opercular region. Rhamphichthyinae and Steatogenys possess accessory electric organs in the mental region of the body that differs in many aspects, such as general electrocyte shape and its number of caudal ridges. Steatogenys, Hypopygus and Rhamphichthys possess an accessory electric organ in the humeral region that differs in position, electrocyte configuration and shape. Electrocytes of both humeral and mental accessory electric organs in Steatogenys share a number of common features (e.g., electrocyte shape and innervation pattern), which distinguishes them from the electric organs of related groups. Rhamphichthys has an accessory electric organ in the humeral (specifically subpectoral) region, which has not previously been reported in the literature and differs in arrangement and electrocyte shape from those previously described electric organs of other taxa. Homology of these accessory electric organs is discussed in the context of hypothesized relationships among rhamphichthyoid taxa, indicating that accessory electric organs originated multiple times with apparently no subsequent losses.
Optimization of ultrasound‐assisted extraction of functional polysaccharides from common mullein (Verbascum thapsus L.) flowers
Authors: Babamoradi Nastaran , Yousefi Shima , Ziarati Parisa
Published: September 2018

Achieving a maximum extraction yield for common mullein polysaccharides (CMPs) with desirable antioxidant capacity was examined by the optimizing solvent/plant material ratio (S/PM, 10–50 v/w), and ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) temperature (40–80 °C), time (15–75 min), and power (100–500 W) using response surface methodology. The highest extraction yield of polysaccharide (5.75%) from Verbascum thapsus flowers with a remarkable DPPH‐radical scavenging activity (67.66%) was resulted in the ultrasonic time of 60 min, ultrasonic temperature of 67.52 °C, ultrasonic power of 371.03 W, and S/PM of 40 v/w. The antioxidant activity and extraction yield obtained under the optimal UAE were noticeably more than those of the classical process. The cell morphology analysis by scanning electron microscopy revealed a more intact and amorphous matrix for intracellular CMPs extracted using the traditional method than UAE one. Structure of the mucilaginous materials with a minimum turbidity value was elucidated by Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR).

Practical applications

Mucilages and polysaccharides have a key role in improving the emulsifying, texturizing, and antioxidant functions in food products. Verbascum thapsus is a unique herbal species with excellent medical and biological potentials. Optimization of extraction process of functional mucilages from V. thapsus flowers using powerful modeling and mathematical tools like response surface methodology (RSM) can significantly decrease the research time and cost with better results. The optimized method of ultrasound‐assisted extraction ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) using RSM compared with the classical extraction methods can be a practical solution to improve quality and quantity of bioactive polysaccharides to incorporate into innovative food formulations.
Ozonation of Adzuki beans (Vigna angularis): Effect on the hydration kinetics, phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity
Authors: Alexandre Allana Patrícia Santos , Miano Alberto Claudio , Brandão Teresa Ribeiro Silva , Miller Fátima Alves , Fundo Joana Freitas , Calori‐Domingues Maria Antonia , Silva Cristina Luisa Miranda , Augusto Pedro Esteves Duarte
Published: September 2018

Ozone is used in grains to guarantee mycotoxin degradation, microbial inactivation, and insect disinfestation. However, its oxidizing properties can promote changes in the grain constituents, affecting both product properties and process behavior. Even so, the effect of ozone processing on quality properties of grains and their process, was rarely studied. Consequently, this work studied the impact of ozonation processing on the hydration kinetics and selected nutritional properties of Adzuki beans (Vigna angularis). As the ozone reactiveness increases at high moistures, three different levels of grain moisture were evaluated. The bean nutritional quality was evaluated considering the total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity (both radicals ABTS and DPPH). The results showed that there was neither significant difference in the hydration kinetics nor in the phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity after the processing with ozone. Consequently, ozonation is proposed as an alternative in the control of grain contaminants without affecting its quality.

Practical applications

Grains are important raw materials worldwide, since they are used as food, feed or for extracting different components. Ozone, a safe and green technology, is used for microorganism inactivation and insect disinfestation, as well as for mycotoxins degradation in grains. However, although ozone can be used to guarantee safety, its oxidizing properties can promote changes in the grain constituents. These changes can negatively impact the nutritional properties, as well as alter the grain behaviour during processing. However, these evaluations are rarely carried out, questioning the ozone practical application. Therefore, the present work was developed to conduct this evaluation. It was demonstrated that the ozone processing did not alter neither the grain hydration kinetics nor the phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity. Consequently, ozonation is proposed as a viable alternative in grain processing.
Microbial quality evaluation of grated cheese samples collected at retail level in Calabria (Italy)
Authors: Costanzo Nicola , Rodolfi Marinella , Musarella Rosanna , Ceniti Carlotta , Santoro Adriano , Britti Domenico , Casalinuovo Francesco
Published: September 2018

To evaluate the microbial quality of grated cheese sold in Southern Italy, a total of 47 samples were collected at retail. Enumeration of fungi performed by culture reveled concentration ranging between 1 and 5.56 Log10 CFU/g and between 1 and 4 Log10 CFU/g for yeasts and molds, respectively. Selected mold colonies (n = 95) available from 31 samples (65.96%) were further identified. In total, 27 different mold species were recorded. The top five strains were in descending order as follows: Moniliella suaveolens (21.05%, n = 20), Geotrichum candidum (9.47%, n = 9), Penicillium brevicompactum (7.36%, n = 7), Cladosporium cladosporioides (6.31%, n = 6) and Gliocladium album (5.26%, n = 5). Regarding bacterial growth, Staphylococcal cells were available from 19 out of 47 (40.42%) collected samples with a range from 1.30 to 5.15 Log10 CFU/g. Staphylococcus aureus‐like colonies were not detected and similarly, pathogenic Listeria monocytogenes Salmonella and Escherichia coli was not isolated while two colonies were identified as Listeria innocua. To prevent any potential contamination and growth of pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms in dairy products including grated cheeses high hygiene standards need to be considered.

Practical applications

This study provides an insight into the diversity of viable molds that can be isolated from grated cheese sold at retail level. These microorganisms, that can potentially affect the quality and the safety of food products, may serve as indication for the food business operator of hygiene during processing and eventually as prediction during storing.
Microbiological quality and safety of cheeses belonging to “Traditional Agri‐Food Products” (T.A.P.) produced in Southern Italy
Authors: Dambrosio Angela , Ioanna Federica , Storelli Maria M. , Castiglia Domenico , Giannico Francesco , Colonna Maria A. , De Rosa Michele , Quaglia Nicoletta C.
Published: September 2018

The aim of this study was to assess the microbiological quality and safety of some cheeses produced in Apulia region, Southern Italy, and classified as “traditional agri‐food products.” A total of 120 samples were collected and analyzed. From results, 82.5% of cheeses analyzed, had a satisfactory microbiological quality according to the European legislation. The coagulase positive Staphylococci (CPS) count was above the limits set by the European legislation in 17.5% of the samples analyzed. Within the 20 strains of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) isolated, 12 were positive for the detection of the enterotoxin genes. Furthermore, nine strains of S. aureus were positive to reverse passive latex agglutination (SET‐RPLA) assay. One of the two samples of Cacioricotta di Vacca Fresco, with a CPS load of 3.02 × 105 cfu/g, showed unsatisfactory microbiological safety because was positive to SET‐RPLA. Based on the findings, it is essential to apply and maintain good hygiene practices throughout the food chain, especially for traditional agri‐food products, which are often produced in small family processing plants using production protocols based on the experience handed down from father to son.

Practical applications

The traditional agri‐food products are foodstuffs much appreciated by consumers because of their organoleptic qualities and taste that brings back to the genuine flavors of the past. However, the hygienic quality and safety of these products is linked to the personal experience of food business operator and not to the regular checking of microbiological parameters that validate the acceptability of foodstuffs and their manufacturing, handling and distribution processes. The results of this study can contribute to the risk analysis for these particular products, and underline the need to apply and maintain good hygiene practices throughout the production chain.
Procedural Framework to Facilitate Hospital‐Based Informed Consent for Dementia Research
Authors: Holden Timothy R. , Keller Sarah , Kim Alice , Gehring Michael , Schmitz Emily , Hermann Carol , Gilmore‐Bykovskyi Andrea , Kind Amy J.H.
Published: September 2018

Improving quality and delivery of care for people with Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRD) requires a comprehensive research agenda that encompasses the entire care continuum. Logistical and ethical challenges of informed consent for research participation of persons with ADRD include determination of capacity to consent, surrogate consent when capacity to consent is compromised, timely identification of the legally authorized representative (LAR) providing surrogate consent, and balancing residual autonomy with surrogate consent. Short stays; limited access to patients, caregivers, and LARs; and fluctuating influences of acute illness on capacity determination compound these challenges in the acute care setting. To address these challenges, we worked with the University of Wisconsin Health Sciences Institutional Review Board to develop a procedural framework for obtaining informed consent from hospitalized individuals with ADRD and their caregivers to participate in a minimal risk care intervention. The framework is specially designed for minimal risk situations in which rapid enrollment is a necessity and uses rapid identification of surrogates to consent for patients who lack legal capacity to make medical decisions, indicated by an activated healthcare power of attorney, and individualized formal assent procedures for patients who lack capacity to consent. These methods were proven effective in facilitating hospital‐based recruitment in an ongoing randomized controlled trial and provide a basis for increasing access to acute care clinical research for persons with ADRD. Bolstering research participation through more easily used consent procedures during acute illness is critical to fostering improvements in the delivery of high‐quality care to persons with ADRD. J Am Geriatr Soc 66:2243–2248, 2018
A first case of hepatocellular carcinoma in the baboon (Papio spp.) placenta
Authors: Schlabritz‐Loutsevitch Natalia , Carrillo Maira , Li Cun , Nathanielsz Peter , Maguire Christopher , Maher James , Dick Edward , Hubbard Gene , Stanek Jerzy
Published: September 2018

We present a case of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the placenta of healthy baboon (Papio spp.). Grossly, the fetal, maternal, and placental tissues were unremarkable. Histologically, the placenta contained an unencapsulated, poorly demarcated, infiltrative, solidly cellular neoplasm composed of cells that resembled hepatocytes. The neoplastic cells were diffusely positive for vimentin and focally positive for Ae1/Ae3, Arginase ‐1, glutamine synthetase, and CD10, and negative for ER, vascular markers (CD31 and D240), S100, glypican, C‐reactive protein, FABP, desmin, and beta‐catenin; INI1 positivity was similar to non‐neoplastic tissues. The case likely represents a unique subtype of HCC.
Oestradiol and leptin have separate but additive anorexigenic effects and differentially target fat mass in rats
Authors: Côté Isabelle , Green Sara M. , Yarrow Joshua F. , Conover Christine F. , Toklu Hale Z. , Morgan Drake , Carter Christy S. , Tümer Nihal , Scarpace Philip J.
Published: September 2018

We recently showed that male rats exhibit lower hypophagia and body weight loss compared to female rats following central leptin delivery, suggesting a role for oestradiol in leptin responsiveness. Accordingly, we delivered Ob (leptin) or GFP (control) gene into the brain of male rats that were simultaneously treated with oestradiol or vehicle. In a reciprocal approach, we compared oestradiol‐deficient (OVX) with intact females (sham) that received leptin or control vector. Changes in food intake), body weight and body composition were examined. In males, oestradiol and leptin resulted in lower cumulative food intake (15%) and endpoint body weight (5%), although rats receiving dual treatment (oestradiol‐leptin) ate 28% less and weighed 22% less than vehicle‐control. Changes in food intake were unique to each treatment, with a rapid decrease in vehicle‐leptin followed by gradual renormalisation. By contrast, hypophagia in oestradiol‐control was of lower amplitude and sporadic. Leptin selectively targeted fat mass and endpoint abdominal fat mass was 65%‐80% lower compared to their respective control groups. In females, both leptin groups had lower body weight (endpoint values 20% lower than control groups) with the highest extent in sham animals (endpoint value was 28% less in sham‐leptin than in sham‐control). OVX rats rapidly started regaining their lost body weight reminiscent of the pattern in males. Leptin rapidly and robustly reduced fat mass with endpoint values 30%‐35% less than control treated animals. It appears that leptin and oestradiol decreased food intake and body weight via different mechanisms, with the pattern of oestradiol‐leptin being reminiscent of that observed in females and the pattern of OVX‐leptin reminiscent of that observed in males. Oestrogen status did not influence initial fat mass loss by leptin. It can be concluded that oestradiol modulates the long‐term response to central leptin overexpression, although its actions on energy homeostasis are additive and independent of those of leptin.
The “left behind”: Smallholders in contemporary Russian agriculture
Authors: Wegren Stephen K.
Published: September 2018

Smallholder production in Russia has been in decline for more than a decade. The likelihood is for continued marginalization. Smallholders confront four obstacles. First, path dependencies, which includes the fact that smallholders' production remains traditional and subsistence oriented. Second, institutions in the form of state policy restrict land and animals. Third, Russia's role in the third food regime means that smallholders are unable to help Russia's emergence as a global food superpower. Fourth, smallholders are being left behind in the ongoing technological revolution led by agroholdings. As technological advancement expands in scope, the gap between large farms and smallholders will widen.
Smallholder agriculture in transition economies
Authors: Burkitbayeva Saule , Swinnen Johan
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we analyse how smallholder farms have evolved during the transition process in former communist countries and how this process has differed across countries and commodities. The role of smallholders in agriculture differs among transition countries, and this diversity is due to a combination of factors, including capital, labour and land endowments, income levels, scale economies, market imperfections, and reform choices. Institutions to access inputs and sell outputs affect the efficiency and survival of smallholders. In the past decade, the share of smallholders in land use and production has declined significantly as younger and more dynamic smallholders have become integrated in modern value chains, whereas older, less dynamic farmers have (semi‐)retired, producing only for household consumption.
Financial Capability for All: Training Human Service Professionals to Work with Vulnerable Families
Authors: Sherraden Margaret S. , Birkenmaier Julie , Collins J. Michael
Published: September 2018

This essay explores the potential for social workers and other human services professionals to build the financial capability of vulnerable populations. These professionals routinely work with the financially vulnerable and are uniquely positioned to provide basic financial guidance and support. Their education in human development, family dynamics, organizational and community functioning, and social policy prepares them to be key partners in creating solutions to financial vulnerability. However, human service professionals need additional training. Although there has been significant progress in developing curricula, additional resources, such as assessment models and practice tools for serving specific populations, would facilitate financial practice. Academic degree programs and continuing education in financial capability must be developed, along with greater clarification about career pathways and credentialing. Building the financial capability of vulnerable families is an ambitious agenda, but one that is essential to well‐being in the 21st century.
WHAT DRIVES CAPITAL FLOWS TO EMERGING MARKETS? A SURVEY OF THE EMPIRICAL LITERATURE
Authors: Koepke Robin
Published: September 2018

This paper reviews the rapidly growing empirical literature on the drivers of capital flows to emerging markets. The empirical evidence is structured based on the recognition that the drivers of capital flows vary over time and across different types of capital flows. The drivers are classified using the traditional distinction between ‘push’ and ‘pull’ drivers, which continues to serve as a useful framework. Push factors like global risk aversion and external interest rates are found to matter most for portfolio debt and equity flows, but somewhat less for banking flows. Pull factors such as domestic output growth, asset returns and country risk matter for all three capital flows components, but most for banking flows.
Noncognitive Abilities and Financial Delinquency: The Role of Self‐Efficacy in Avoiding Financial Distress
Authors: KUHNEN CAMELIA M. , MELZER BRIAN T.
Published: September 2018

We investigate a novel determinant of financial distress, namely, individuals' self‐efficacy, or belief that their actions can influence the future. Individuals with high self‐efficacy are more likely to take precautions that mitigate adverse financial shocks. They are subsequently less likely to default on their debt and bill payments, especially after experiencing negative shocks such as job loss or illness. Thus, noncognitive abilities are an important determinant of financial fragility and subjective expectations are an important factor in household financial decisions.
Clinical features and mid‐term follow‐up in infants younger than 3 months with Kawasaki disease in a Chinese population
Authors: Li Wei , Zhang Li , Huang Ping , Zhang Zhiwei
Published: September 2018

Aim

To explore the clinical features and mid‐term follow‐up of Kawasaki disease (KD) in infants younger than 3 months of age in a Chinese population.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of clinical signs, laboratory data, echocardiography results and outcomes for patients with KD diagnosed at our hospital from January 2009 to December 2013. A total of 1150 children were diagnosed with KD, and 200 KD patients were enrolled in this study. Group 1 included 40 children younger than 3 months of age. We randomly selected a control group as Group 2 included 160 children older than 3 months of age who fulfilled diagnostic criteria for KD and maintained follow‐up for more than 1 year.

Results

There was a significant difference in clinical manifestations between the two groups, except respiratory infection. Group 1 was more likely to have incomplete presentation (P < 0.001). There were no significant differences in laboratory data except for white blood cell counts between the two groups. Coronary artery abnormalities were significantly different between the two groups (P < 0.001). At a mean follow‐up of 18 months (range 12–48 months), all patients with coronary artery abnormalities, except for giant coronary aneurysms, returned to normal in terms of diameter as assessed by echocardiography.

Conclusions

Infants younger than 3 months of age with KD often present with incomplete criteria, and diagnosis may be delayed. In addition, there may be a higher risk of developing coronary artery abnormalities. All patients except those with giant coronary aneurysms recovered well without complications at mid‐term follow‐up.
Evolutionary reversals in Bossiella (Corallinales, Rhodophyta): first report of a coralline genus with both geniculate and nongeniculate species
Authors: Hind Katharine R. , Gabrielson Paul W. , Jensen Cassandra , Martone Patrick T.
Published: September 2018

This is the first report of a coralline genus with both geniculate (upright fronds with non‐calcified joints) and nongeniculate species that has been verified by DNA sequence data. Two nongeniculate (crustose) species of Bossiella are recognized, B. mayae sp. nov. and B. exarticulata sp. nov. DNA sequencing of the lectotype specimen of Pseudolithophyllum whidbeyense revealed that this name had been misapplied and instead belongs to an undescribed coralline species in the Hapalidiales. Phylogenetic analyses of concatenated DNA sequences (psbA, rbcL, COI‐5P) indicate that B. mayae and B. exarticulata represent phenotypic reversals from the geniculate character state back to the nongeniculate character state. Secondary loss of genicula has occurred three times in the subfamily Corallinoideae, once to generate the entirely nongeniculate genus Crusticorallina and twice in the now morphologically heterotypic Bossiella. Since phenotypic reversals have occurred several times during the evolution of coralline algae, we speculate about the putative mechanism and adaptive significance of this phenomenon.
How to organise teaching activities for the scoring of cardiorespiratory polygraphies? Experiences from three Swedish Sleep Society teaching courses
Authors: Grote Ludger
Published: September 2018

Education in the scoring of sleep‐disordered breathing is organised differently and data on the evaluation of teaching strategies based on student ratings are sparse. The aim of the study was to analyse the gain in theoretical and practical knowledge achieved during different course settings offered by a national sleep society. The course contained 1 hr of theoretical teaching (scoring rules and recording methodology) and 2.5 hr of practical scoring (physiological breathing, obstructive/central sleep apnea and hypoventilation). Three different settings were provided: a large scoring group including participants with mixed experiences (1), a small scoring group with inexperienced scorers (2), and guided scoring for experienced scorers (3). Evaluation was performed at the end of the course. Data from 67 out of 82 participants (79%) were analysed (42 nurses/technicians and 25 physicians/dentists). Previous scoring experience was limited, moderate and extended in 25, 26, and 15 students, respectively. Gain of practical knowledge and overall course rating were significantly higher in settings 2 and 3 compared with 1 (p = 0.005 and p = 0.018 respectively). Guided scoring was the preferred practical teaching setting in experienced scorers, whereas scoring in large groups together with an experienced student was preferred in newcomers. Profession did not influence gain of knowledge, course satisfaction or preferred course design. From the student's perspective, consensus scoring in groups or guided scoring for all students may have advantages compared with single/small‐group scoring settings. Technical teaching knowledge of faculty members is of significant importance.
Interactions between global change components drive plant species richness patterns within communities in mountain grasslands independently of topography
Authors: Rodríguez Antonio , de Lamo Xavier , Sebastià Maria‐Teresa
Published: September 2018

Questions

How do interactions between global change factors (climate and land use, including livestock management) shape plant species richness patterns in mountain grassland communities? Does topography interact with global change factors to modulate their effect on within‐community plant diversity?

Location

Pyrenees, Spain.

Methods

We used an initial set of 20 predictors: climatic, biogeographic, livestock management and topographic. Our data set included a wide range of management and climatic conditions from mediterranean to alpine environments. After a variable selection procedure with random forest, we built GLM to explain species richness in plant communities through 100‐m2 plots (SR100), employing backward–forward selection with AIC and other techniques.

Results

The main filters of SR100 were the regional factors (climate and biogeography, with 23% and 17%, respectively, of the total contribution to SR100), followed by livestock management (14%) and topography (9%). Interactions between climatic and biogeographic variables were almost as important as the main effects (18%). Fragmentation effects were higher under low mean minimum temperatures and summer precipitation compared with other conditions. Connectivity interacted with most of the climatic variables. Moderately high stocking rates mitigated plant community species losses triggered by decreased connectivity. Sheep‐grazed grassland communities had lower SR100 than differently managed grasslands under low fragmentation scenarios; conversely, sheep grazing enhanced SR100 when fragmentation was high. Topographic predictors accounted for lower variability in SR100 than regional and management factors and were independent from these.

Conclusions

Several multi‐scale spatial filters determine SR100 of grassland communities in the Pyrenees, interacting through complex processes. Climate can enhance negative effects of fragmentation and lack of connectivity on SR100 under stressful conditions. Livestock management modified the impact of patch disaggregation and fragmentation on SR100.
Feasibility and acceptability of a motivational interviewing breastfeeding peer support intervention
Authors: Copeland Lauren , Merrett Laura , McQuire Cheryl , Grant Aimee , Gobat Nina , Tedstone Sally , Playle Rebecca , Channon Sue , Sanders Julia , Phillips Rhiannon , Hunter Billie , Brown Amy , Fitzsimmons Deborah , Robling Michael , Paranjothy Shantini
Published: September 2018

An uncontrolled study with process evaluation was conducted in three U.K. community maternity sites to establish the feasibility and acceptability of delivering a novel breastfeeding peer‐support intervention informed by motivational interviewing (MI; Mam‐Kind). Peer‐supporters were trained to deliver the Mam‐Kind intervention that provided intensive one‐to‐one peer‐support, including (a) antenatal contact, (b) face‐to‐face contact within 48 hr of birth, (c) proactive (peer‐supporter led) alternate day contact for 2 weeks after birth, and (d) mother‐led contact for a further 6 weeks. Peer‐supporters completed structured diaries and audio‐recorded face‐to‐face sessions with mothers. Semistructured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of mothers, health professionals, and all peer‐supporters. Interview data were analysed thematically to assess intervention acceptability. Audio‐recorded peer‐support sessions were assessed for intervention fidelity and the use of MI techniques, using the MITI 4.2 tool. Eight peer‐supporters delivered the Mam‐Kind intervention to 70 mothers in three National Health Service maternity services. Qualitative interviews with mothers (n = 28), peer‐supporters (n = 8), and health professionals (n = 12) indicated that the intervention was acceptable, and health professionals felt it could be integrated with existing services. There was high fidelity to intervention content; 93% of intervention objectives were met during sessions. However, peer‐supporters reported difficulties in adapting from an expert‐by‐experience role to a collaborative role. We have established the feasibility and acceptability of providing breastfeeding peer‐support using a MI‐informed approach. Refinement of the intervention is needed to further develop peer‐supporters' skills in providing mother‐centred support. The refined intervention should be tested for effectiveness in a randomised controlled trial.
Dusky dolphin group dynamics and association patterns in Península Valdés, Argentina
Authors: Degrati Mariana , Coscarella Mariano A. , Crespo Enrique A. , Dans Silvana L.
Published: September 2018

We inspected dusky dolphin (Lagenorhynchus obscurus) group dynamics in Golfo Nuevo and found differences in social organization between cold and warm seasons. Surveys were conducted onboard a research vessel, from which we collected behavioral observations and group fission‐fusion data from 2001 to 2008; we also collected photo‐identification data from 2004 to 2012. To analyze association patterns, we calculated half‐weight association index (HWI) and social differentiation (S). We conducted a Monte Carlo permutation test to determine whether observed association patterns were significantly different from random association using a compiled version of SOCPROG 2.7. Group fission and fusion dynamics depended on group behavior, the main activity after the groups' fusion was feeding, and they never fission before socializing. The social structure of dusky dolphins included long‐term preferred companions in the cold season; during the warm season, there were no preferred companions. This seasonal difference in social structure could be related to an accompanying shift in foraging behaviors that appears to be driven by changes in prey availability. If so, then a loosening of bonds among individuals during the warm season, when prey is more available, would reflect these social structure changes.
Socio‐economic and health status as a predictor of apical periodontitis in adult patients in Croatia
Authors: Persic Bukmir Romana , Vidas Jelena , Mance Diana , Pezelj‐Ribaric Sonja , Spalj Stjepan , Brekalo Prso Ivana
Published: September 2018

Objective

A few studies focused on determinants of apical periodontitis other than technical or biological factors. This research aimed to investigate to what extent socio‐economic and health status can predict apical periodontitis in adult patients.

Subjects and Methods

The cross‐sectional study included 599 adult patients. Medical history, health habits and socio‐economic status of each participant were recorded using a self‐administered structured questionnaire. For caries detection, the World Health Organization diagnostic thresholds were used, and oral hygiene level was estimated using plaque index. Periapical index system was used to analyse the periapical status of all teeth. Dental, socio‐economic and health‐related variables were tested against dependent variable (periapical disease ratio) in a multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

Dental independent variables explained 71.7% of the observed variation in periapical disease ratio (R2 = 0.717; p < 0.001). Periapical disease ratio increased with the increase in number of carious teeth, plaque index and number of root‐filled teeth, but also with decrease in number of coronal fillings (all p < 0.001). Socio‐economic and health‐related variables accounted for lower portion of variability, 15.5% and 12.9%, respectively (both p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Dental variables are more important predictors of periapical status than socio‐economic and health‐related variables.
The relationship between electricity consumption, trade openness and economic growth in India
Authors: Ohlan Ramphul
Published: September 2018

The present study explores the empirical relationship between electricity consumption, trade openness and economic growth in India utilising cointegration tests and Granger causality vector error correction model for the period 1971–2016. The results of ARDL model reveal that the variables are cointegrated. The robustness of the long‐run relationship between variables is confirmed by applying Hatemi‐J cointegration model. The empirical results show that electricity consumption statistically significantly stimulates economic growth in India both in long term and short term. However, the elasticity of economic growth with respect to electricity use is found to be higher in the long term than that of the short term. Furthermore, we find the existence of a long‐term Granger causality flowing from electricity use to economic growth. In addition, the electricity consumption is also commanded by economic growth in the short‐run. As a broad policy implication, India needs to focus on the development of a sustainable mode of electricity production for achieving high economic growth in the years to come.
Relevant factors of depression in dementia modifiable by non‐pharmacotherapy: a systematic review
Authors: Kubo Yuta , Hayashi Hiroyuki , Kozawa Saori , Okada Shinichi
Published: September 2018

Depression in dementia patients is associated with complications such as decreased activities of daily living and decreased quality of life. Because pharmacotherapeutic treatments for depression in dementia patients may have a poor risk–benefit ratio, effective non‐pharmacotherapeutic interventions are favourable. However, the development of effective treatments requires the identification of depression‐associated factors that can be modified by non‐pharmacotherapeutic means in dementia patients. This systematic literature review aimed to identify modifiable factors related to depression and confirm that these factors can be improved by non‐pharmacotherapeutic interventions. We searched PubMed, SpringerLink, the Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for articles published between June 2007 and June 2017. We included studies that investigated causes of depression in dementia patients and excluded studies with unclear dementia diagnostic criteria or operational definitions. Of 9004 records screened, 6 studies were included. The participants included community‐dwelling individuals and long‐term care facility residents. The severity of dementia varied from mild to severe. After reviewing the studies, we identified five modifiable relevant factors in community‐dwelling individuals: (i) pain; (ii) neuropsychiatric symptoms; (iii) cognitive decline; (iv) social isolation; and (v) quality of life. In long‐term care facility residents, we identified neuropsychiatric symptoms and quality of life as relevant factors. Our results indicated that non‐pharmacological interventions that improve these factors may improve symptoms of depression. A longitudinal study is recommended to clarify the mechanisms underlying depression symptoms and treatment in dementia patients. In addition, further investigation is needed to elucidate the ways in which differing dementia types and severity affect symptoms of depression.
Contralateral delay activity tracks the storage of visually presented letters and words
Authors: Rajsic Jason , Burton Jane A. , Woodman Geoffrey F.
Published: September 2018

Electrophysiological studies have demonstrated that the maintenance of items in visual working memory (VWM) is indexed by the contralateral delay activity (CDA), which increases in amplitude as the number of objects to remember increases, plateauing at VWM capacity. Previous work has primarily utilized simple visual items, such as colored squares or picture stimuli. Despite the frequent use of verbal stimuli in seminal investigations of visual attention and memory, it is unknown whether temporary storage of letters and words also elicit a typical load‐sensitive CDA. Given their close associations with language and phonological codes, it is possible that participants store these stimuli phonologically, and not visually. Participants completed a standard visual change‐detection task while their ERPs were recorded. Experiment 1 compared the CDA elicited by colored squares compared to uppercase consonants, and Experiment 2 compared the CDA elicited by words compared to colored bars. Behavioral accuracy of change detection decreased with increasing set size for colored squares, letters, and words. We found that a capacity‐limited CDA was present for colored squares, letters, and word arrays, suggesting that the visual codes for letters and words were maintained in VWM, despite the potential for transfer to verbal working memory. These results suggest that, despite their verbal associations, letters and words elicit the electrophysiological marker of VWM encoding and storage.