bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential gene expression and the importance of regulatory ncRNAs in acidophilic microorganisms
Authors: Goltsman Daniela S. Aliaga , Hauser Loren , Dasari Mauna , Thomas Brian C. , Banfield Jillian F.
Published: February 2019

Gene expression profiles provide insight into how microorganisms respond to changing environmental conditions. However, few studies have integrated expression profile analyses of both coding genes and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) to characterize the functional activity of microbial community members. Here, we defined gene expression profiles from environmental and laboratory-grown acidophilic biofilms using RNASeq. In total, 15.8 million Illumina reads were mapped to the genomes of 26 acidophilic microorganisms and nine viruses reconstructed from the Richmond Mine at Iron Mountain, California. More than 99% of the genome was transcribed in three Leptospirillum species, and > 80% in the archaea G-plasma and Ferroplasma Type II. High gene expression by G-plasma and the Leptospirillum Group II UBA strain correlated with extremely acidic conditions, whereas high transcriptional expression of Leptospirillum Group III and Leptospirillum Group II 5way-CG strain occurred under higher pH and lower temperature. While expression of CRISPR Cas genes occurs on the sense strand, expression of the CRISPR loci occurs on the antisense strand in the Leptospirilli. A novel riboswitch associated with the biosynthetic pathway for the osmolyte ectoine was upregulated when each specific Leptospirillum Group II strain was growing under the conditions most favorable for it. Newly described ncRNAs associated with CO dehydrogenase (CODH) suggest regulation of expression of CODH as a CO sensor in mature biofilms in the Leptospirilli. Results reveal the ways in which environmental conditions shape transcriptional profiles of organisms growing in acidophilic microbial communities and highlight the significance of ncRNAs in regulating gene expression.

IMPORTANCE

Microorganisms play important roles in environmental acidification and in metal-recovery based bioleaching processes. Therefore, characterizing how actively growing microbial communities respond to different environments is key to understanding their role in those processes. Microorganisms express their genes, both coding and non-coding, differently depending on environmental factors, thus evaluating community expression profiles inform about the ecology of actively growing microorganisms. Here we used community transcriptomic analyses to characterize gene expression profiles from biofilm communities growing under extremely acidic conditions. Results expand our knowledge of how acidophilic microorganisms respond to changes in their environment and provide insight into possible gene regulation mechanisms.
The conserved histone chaperone LIN-53 links lifespan and healthspan regulation in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Müthel Stefanie , Uyar Bora , He Mei , Krause Anne , Vitrinel Burcu , Bulut Selman , Vasiljevic Djordje , Akalin Altuna , Kempa Stefan , Tursun Baris
Published: February 2019

Whether extension of lifespan provides an extended time without health deteriorations is an important issue for human aging. However, to which degree lifespan and healthspan regulation might be linked is not well understood. Chromatin factors could be involved in linking both aging aspects, as epigenetic mechanisms bridge regulation of different biological processes. The epigenetic factor LIN-53 (RBBP4/7) is required for safeguarding cell identities in Caenorhabditis elegans as well as mammals and for preventing memory loss and premature aging in humans. LIN-53 is a histone chaperone that associates with different chromatin-regulating complexes. We show that LIN-53 interacts with the Nucleosome remodeling and deacteylase (NuRD)-complex in C. elegans muscles to promote healthy locomotion during aging. While mutants for other NuRD members show a normal lifespan, animals lacking LIN-53 die early because LIN-53 depletion affects also the Histone deacetylase complex Sin3, which is required for a normal lifespan. To determine why lin-53 and sin-3 mutants die early, we performed transcriptome and metabolome analysis and found that levels of the disaccharide Trehalose are significantly decreased in both mutants. As Trehalose is required for normal lifespan in C. elegans, lin-53 and sin-3 mutants could be rescued by either feeding with Trehalose or increasing Trehalose levels via the Insulin/IGF1 signaling pathway. Overall, our findings suggest that LIN-53 is required for maintaining lifespan and promoting healthspan through discrete chromatin regulatory mechanisms. Since both LIN-53 and its mammalian homologs safeguard cell identities, it is conceivable that its implication in lifespan and healthspan regulation is also evolutionarily conserved.
Chromatin architecture reorganization during neuronal cell differentiation in Drosophila genome
Authors: Chathoth Keerthi T. , Zabet Nicolae Radu
Published: February 2019

The organization of the genome into topologically associating domains (TADs) was shown to have a regulatory role in development and cellular function, but the mechanism involved in TAD establishment is still unclear. Here, we present the first high-resolution contact map of Drosophila neuronal cells (BG3) and identify different classes of TADs by comparing this to genome organization in embryonic cells (Kc167). We find that only some TADs are conserved in both cell lines, whereas the rest are cell-type–specific. This is supported by a change in the enrichment of architectural proteins at TAD borders, with BEAF-32 present in embryonic cells and CTCF in neuronal cells. Furthermore, we observe strong divergent transcription, together with RNA Polymerase II occupancy and an increase in DNA accessibility at the TAD borders. TAD borders that are specific to neuronal cells are enriched in enhancers controlled by neuronal-specific transcription factors. Our results suggest that TADs are dynamic across developmental stages and reflect the interplay between insulators, transcriptional states, and enhancer activities.
Case report of cutaneous nodule caused by Gordonia bronchialis in an immunocompetent patient after receiving acupuncture
Authors: Choi Myoung Eun , Jung Chang Jin , Won Chong Hyun , Chang Sung Eun , Lee Mi Woo , Choi Jee Ho , Lee Woo Jin
Published: February 2019

Gordonia species were recently found to cause human infection. Most Gordonia bronchialis infections are associated with sternal wounds and foreign bodies. Here, we present a case of a firm cutaneous nodule caused by G. bronchialis on an immunocompetent patient's lower extremity after receiving acupuncture. Our present case indicates that spontaneous cutaneous infection of G. bronchialis can develop even in a healthy patient. With the popularity of complementary and alternative medicine, physicians should be aware that G. bronchialis infection can be associated with Oriental medicine similar to mycobacterial infection. Recognizing the diverse clinical features of newly emerging Gordonia species will facilitate appropriate diagnosis and management of future patients.
Reproductive losses due to climate change‐induced earlier flowering are not the primary threat to plant population viability in a perennial herb
Authors: Iler Amy M. , Compagnoni Aldo , Inouye David W. , Williams Jennifer L. , CaraDonna Paul J. , Anderson Aaron , Miller Tom E. X.
Published: February 2019

Despite a global footprint of shifts in flowering phenology in response to climate change, the reproductive consequences of these shifts are poorly understood. Furthermore, it is unknown whether altered flowering times affect plant population viability.

We examine whether climate change‐induced earlier flowering has consequences for population persistence by incorporating reproductive losses from frost damage (a risk of early flowering) into population models of a subalpine sunflower (Helianthella quinquenervis). Using long‐term demographic data for three populations that span the species’ elevation range (8–15 years, depending on the population), we first examine how snowmelt date affects plant vital rates. To verify vital rate responses to snowmelt date experimentally, we manipulate snowmelt date with a snow removal experiment at one population. Finally, we construct stochastic population projection models and Life Table Response Experiments for each population.

We find that populations decline (λs < 1) as snowmelt dates become earlier. Frost damage to flower buds, a consequence of climate change‐induced earlier flowering, does not contribute strongly to population declines. Instead, we find evidence that negative effects on survival, likely due to increased drought risk during longer growing seasons, drive projected population declines under earlier snowmelt dates.

Synthesis. Shifts in flowering phenology are a conspicuous and important aspect of biological responses to climate change, but here we show that the phenology of reproductive events can be unreliable measures of threats to population persistence, even when earlier flowering is associated with substantial reproductive losses. Evidence for shifts in reproductive phenology, along with scarcer evidence that these shifts actually influence reproductive success, are valuable but can paint an incomplete and even misleading picture of plant population responses to climate change.
Re‐structuring the negotiated order of the hospital
Authors: Nugus Peter
Published: February 2019

Researchers continue to lament the lack of organisational focus in the sociology of health and illness. Although studies have increasingly focused on boundaries between organizations, little such research has focused on the formal boundaries within the hospital itself. Given its dramatic compartmentalisation, and continuing prevalence in health systems, the lack of organisational perspective in hospital research limits insights into the effects (as well as the construction) of the order of health work and care. With a greater emphasis on ‘ordering’ in the concept of negotiated order, the aim of this study is to examine the manifestation and consequences of the formal boundaries of hospital departments. Fieldwork featured 12 months of ethnography, including formal and informal observations, 80 audio‐recorded, semi‐structured interviews, and 56 field interviews, in the Emergency Departments (EDs) of two tertiary referral hospitals. Compared with in‐patient hospital departments, the ED has limited legitimacy claims of organ‐specific knowledge to transfer patients out of the ED. The manifestation of specialised knowledge hierarchies in organisational structures disadvantages patients who are older and who have chronic conditions, underpinning the argument that effects as well as the negotiation of stable organisational orders deserve increased attention in the sociology of health and illness.
Take‐home naloxone and the politics of care
Authors: Farrugia Adrian , Fraser Suzanne , Dwyer Robyn , Fomiatti Renae , Neale Joanne , Dietze Paul , Strang John
Published: February 2019

‘Take‐home naloxone’ refers to a life‐saving intervention in which a drug (naloxone) is made available to nonmedically trained people for administration to other people experiencing an opioid overdose. In Australia, it has not been taken up as widely as would be expected, given its life‐saving potential. We consider the actions of take‐home naloxone, focusing on how care relations shape its uses and effects. Mobilising Science and Technology Studies insights, we suggest that the uses and effects of naloxone are co‐produced within social relations and, therefore, this initiative ‘affords’ multiple outcomes. We argue that these affordances are shaped by a politics of care, and that these politics relate to uptake. We analyse two complementary case studies, drawn from an interview‐based project, in which opioid consumers discussed take‐home naloxone and its uses. Our analysis maps the ways take‐home naloxone can afford (i) a regime of care within an intimate partnership (allowing a terminally ill man to more safely consume opioids) and (ii) a political process of care (in which a consumer takes care of others treated with the medication by administering it ‘gently’). We conclude by exploring the political affordances of a politics of care approach for the uptake of take‐home naloxone.
Identification of stable senescence‐associated reference genes
Authors: Hernandez‐Segura Alejandra , Rubingh Richard , Demaria Marco
Published: February 2019

Cellular senescence is a state of permanent cell cycle arrest activated in response to damaging stimuli. Many hallmarks associated with senescent cells are measured by quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR). As the selection of stable reference genes for interpretation of qPCR data is often overlooked, we performed a systematic review to understand normalization strategies entailed in experiments involving senescent cells. We found that, in violation of the Minimum Information for publication of qPCR Experiments (MIQE) guidelines, most reports used only one reference gene to normalize qPCR data, and that stability of the reference genes was either not tested or not reported. To identify new and more stable reference genes in senescent fibroblasts, we analyzed the Shapiro–Wilk normality test and the coefficient of variation per gene using in public RNAseq datasets. We then compared the new reference gene candidates with commonly used ones by using both RNAseq and qPCR data. Finally, we defined the best reference genes to be used universally or in a strain‐dependent manner. This study intends to raise awareness of the instability of classical reference genes in senescent cells and to serve as a first attempt to define guidelines for the selection of more reliable normalization methods.
Research reported in the AJA: Who does it and where do they do it?
Authors: Howe Anna , Jeon Yun‐Hee
Published: February 2019

Objective

To review research published in the AJA in terms of authors' positions and disciplinary backgrounds, and the settings in which research was done.

Methods

Eighty two papers by 373 authors, in Vol. 35 No 1, March 2016, to Vol 37 No 2, June 2018, were reviewed.

Results

Different clusters of authorship were found for research using surveys or database analyses, research in hospitals and aged care settings. Two out of three authors held academic positions, and professional practitioners in hospitals were much more likely to have academic affiliations than in aged care settings. Differing research cultures are seen to contribute to these outcomes.

Conclusions

Editorial policies have been central to maintaining publication standards. The Journal's publication partners could take a number of actions to advance recognition of professionals in different roles as authors and to expand the range of research published, especially nursing and social science research.
TMEM16A is implicated in the regulation of coronary flow and is altered in hypertension
Authors: Askew Page Henry R. , Dalsgaard Thomas , Baldwin Samuel N. , Jepps Thomas A. , Povstyan Oleksandr , Olesen Søren P. , Greenwood Iain A.
Published: February 2019

Background and Purpose

Coronary artery disease leads to ischaemic heart disease and ultimately myocardial infarction. Thus, it is important to determine the factors that regulate coronary blood flow. Ca2+‐activated chloride channels contribute to the regulation of arterial tone; however, their role in coronary arteries is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression and function of the main molecular correlate of Ca2+‐activated chloride channels, TMEM16A, in rat coronary arteries.

Experimental Approach

We performed mRNA and protein analysis, electrophysiological studies of coronary artery myocytes, and functional studies of coronary artery contractility and coronary perfusion, using novel inhibitors of TMEM16A. Furthermore, we assessed whether any changes in expression and function occurred in coronary arteries from spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs).

Key Results

TMEM16A was expressed in rat coronary arteries. The TMEM16A‐specific inhibitor, MONNA, hyperpolarised the membrane potential in U46619. MONNA, T16Ainh‐A01, and Ani9 attenuated 5‐HT/U46619‐induced contractions. MONNA and T16Ainh‐A01 also increased coronary flow in Langendorff perfused rat heart preparations. TMEM16A mRNA was increased in coronary artery smooth muscle cells from SHRs, and U46619 and 5‐HT were more potent in arteries from SHRs than in those from normal Wistar rats. MONNA diminished this increased sensitivity to U46619 and 5‐HT.

Conclusions and Implications

In conclusion, TMEM16A is a key regulator of coronary blood flow and is implicated in the altered contractility of coronary arteries from SHRs.
Sex differences in mouse models of fear inhibition: Fear extinction, safety learning, and fear–safety discrimination
Authors: Clark Jacob W. , Drummond Sean P.A. , Hoyer Daniel , Jacobson Laura H.
Published: February 2019

Background and Purpose

Women are overrepresented in post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental disorder characterised by ineffective inhibition of fear. The use of male animals dominates preclinical studies, which may contribute to a lack of understanding as to why this disparity exists. Thus, the current study explores sex differences in three mouse models of fear inhibition.

Experimental Approach

All experiments tested male and female C57Bl/6J mice. Experiment 1 employed two fear conditioning protocols, in which tones were paired with footshocks of differing intensity (moderate or intense). Fear recall and extinction were tested subsequently. In Experiment 2, safety learning was investigated. Tones were explicitly unpaired with footshocks during safety conditioning. Recall of safety learning was tested 24 hr later. Experiment 3 assessed a model of fear–safety discrimination. Cued stimuli were paired or never paired with footshocks during fear and safety conditioning, respectively. Discrimination between stimuli was assessed 24 hr later.

Key Results

In fear extinction, males, compared to females, responded with greater fear in sessions most proximal to conditioning but subsequently showed a more rapid fear extinction over time. Sex differences were not observed during safety learning. During fear–safety discrimination, both males and females discriminated between stimuli; however, males revealed a greater level of freezing to stimuli.

Conclusion and Implications

The current study provides evidence that sex differences influence fear but not safety‐based behaviour in C57Bl/6J mice. These findings indicate that processing of fear, but not safety, may play a greater role in sex differences observed for PTSD.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed section on The Importance of Sex Differences in Pharmacology Research. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.21/issuetoc
GATA2 hypomorphism induces chronic myelomonocytic leukemia in mice
Authors: Harada Nobuhiko , Hasegawa Atsushi , Hirano Ikuo , Yamamoto Masayuki , Shimizu Ritsuko
Published: February 2019

The transcription factor GATA2 regulates normal hematopoiesis, particularly in‐ stem cell maintenance and myeloid differentiation. Various heteroallelic GATA2 gene mutations are associated with a variety of hematological neoplasms, including myelodysplastic syndromes and leukemias. Here, we report that impaired GATA2 expression induces myelodysplastic and myeloproliferative neoplasm development in elderly animals, and this neoplasm resembles chronic myelomonocytic leukemia in humans. GATA2 hypomorphic mutant (G2fGN/fGN) mice that were generated by the germline insertion of a neocassette into the Gata2 gene locus avoided the early embryonic lethality observed in Gata2‐null mice. However, adult G2fGN/fGN mice suffered from exacerbated leukocytosis concomitant with progressive anemia and thrombocytopenia and eventually developed massive granulomonocytosis accompanied by trilineage dysplasia. The reconstitution activity of G2fGN/fGN mouse stem cells was impaired. Furthermore, G2fGN/fGN progenitors showed myeloid lineage‐biased proliferation and differentiation. Myeloid progenitor accumulation started at a younger age in G2fGN/fGN mice and appeared to worsen with age. G2fGN/fGN mice showed increased expression of transcripts encoding cytokine receptors, such as macrophage colony‐stimulating factor receptor and interleukin‐6 receptor, in granulocyte‐monocyte progenitors. This increased expression could be correlated with the hypersensitive granulomonocytic proliferation reaction when the mice were exposed to lipopolysaccharide. Taken together, these observations indicate that GATA2 hypomorphism leads to a hyperreactive defense response to infections, and this reaction is attributed to a unique intrinsic cell defect in the regulation of myeloid expansion that increases the risk of hematological neoplasm transformation.
Patient perceptions of primary care providers' knowledge of bariatric surgery
Authors: Kallies Kara J. , Borgert Andrew J. , Kothari Shanu N.
Published: February 2019

As the rate of obesity continues to rise, primary care providers (PCPs) must be aware and informed of the treatment options available. Bariatric surgery is the most effective long‐term treatment for weight loss and improvement of obesity‐related comorbidities. The aim of this study was to assess patients' perception of their PCP's opinion, support and knowledge of bariatric surgery and changes over time. In 2009 and 2015, a 27‐question survey was developed and mailed to patients who had undergone laparoscopic Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) at our institution. Statistical analysis included chi‐square and Fisher's exact test for associations between categorical variables, Wilcoxon rank sum test for comparison of ordinal or continuous variables and sign test for comparison of paired ordinal variables. There were 680 and 1106 patients who met inclusion criteria and were mailed the 2009 and 2015 survey, respectively. The survey response rate was 47% in 2009 and 35% in 2015; 125 patients completed both surveys. In 2009 and 2015, 78% and 80% of patients described their PCP's opinion of bariatric surgery as “very supportive” (P = 0.64), and 29% and 40% described their PCP as “very knowledgeable” about bariatric surgery (P = 0.02), respectively. Post‐operative support from PCPs was described as “very supportive” by 77% and 79% of patients in 2009 and 2015, respectively (P = 0.07). Overall, Ninety‐seven percent of patients would repeat their LRYGB experience. The majority of patients perceived their PCP as being supportive of bariatric surgery. Physicians' knowledge of bariatric surgery could be improved by establishing more opportunities for education. While patients' perception of their PCP's knowledge increased, no significant improvements in PCP opinion or support of bariatric surgery were observed over time. Patients' willingness to repeat their experience with bariatric surgery remained high.
Live‐cell imaging of octaarginine‐modified polymer dots via single particle tracking
Authors: Luo Yao , Han Yuping , Hu Xingjie , Yin Min , Wu Changfeng , Li Qian , Chen Nan , Zhao Yun
Published: February 2019

Objectives

Nanocarriers can greatly enhance the cellular uptake of therapeutic agents to regulate cell proliferation and metabolism. Nevertheless, further application of nanocarriers is often limited by insufficient understanding of the mechanisms of their uptake and intracellular behaviour.

Materials and methods

Fluorescent polymer dots (Pdots) are coated with synthetic octaarginine peptides (R8) and are analysed for cellular uptake and intracellular transportation in HeLa cervical cancer cells via single particle tracking.

Results

Surface modification with the R8 peptide efficiently improves both cellular uptake and endosomal escape of Pdots. With single particle tracking, we capture the dynamic process of internalization and intracellular trafficking of R8‐Pdots, providing new insights into the mechanism of R8 in facilitating nanostructure‐based cellular delivery. Furthermore, our results reveal R8‐Pdots as a novel type of autophagy inducer.

Conclusions

This study provides new insights into R8‐mediated cellular uptake and endosomal escape of nanocarriers. It potentiates biological applications of Pdots in targeted cell imaging, drug delivery and gene regulation.
Oral melatonin for non‐respiratory sleep disturbance in children with neurodisabilities: systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Parker Adwoa , Beresford Bryony , Dawson Vicki , Elphick Heather , Fairhurst Caroline , Hewitt Catherine , Scantlebury Arabella , Spiers Gemma , Thomas Megan , Wright Kath , Mcdaid Catriona
Published: February 2019

Aim

To evaluate the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions for managing non‐respiratory sleep disturbances in children with neurodisabilities.

Method

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We searched 16 databases, grey literature, and reference lists of included papers up to February 2017. Data were extracted and assessed for quality by two researchers (B.B., C.M., G.S., A.S., A.P.).

Results

Thirteen trials were included, all evaluating oral melatonin. All except one were at high or unclear risk of bias. There was a statistically significant increase in diary‐reported total sleep time for melatonin compared with placebo (pooled mean difference 29.6min, 95% confidence interval [CI] 6.9–52.4, p=0.01). Statistical heterogeneity was high (97%). For the single RCT with low risk of bias, the unadjusted mean difference in total sleep time was 13.2 minutes (95% CI −13.3 to 39.7) favouring melatonin, while the mean difference adjusted for baseline total sleep time was statistically significant (22.4min, 95% CI 0.5–44.3, p=0.04). Adverse event profile suggested that melatonin was well‐tolerated.

Interpretation

There is a paucity of evidence on managing sleep disturbances in children with neurodisabilities, and it is mostly of limited scope and poor quality. There is evidence of the benefit and safety of melatonin compared with placebo, although the extent of this benefit is unclear.

What this paper adds

Melatonin for the management of non‐respiratory sleep disturbances in children with neurodisabilities was well tolerated with minimal adverse effects.

The extent of benefit and which children might benefit most from melatonin use is uncertain.

Benefit may be greatest in those with autism spectrum disorder; however, this finding should be interpreted with caution.
Mental health disorders, participation, and bullying in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Whitney Daniel G , Peterson Mark D , Warschausky Seth A
Published: February 2019

Aim

To examine how social factors might mitigate the elevated risk of mental health disorders in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

This cross‐sectional study included 6‐ to 17‐year‐olds with (n=111; 40.4% 6–11y, 59.6% 12–17y) and without (n=29 909; 50.2% 6–11y, 49.8% 12–17y) CP from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health. Mental health disorders included depression, anxiety, behavior/conduct problems, and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Social factors included participation in activities, bully victimization, and difficulty with friendships.

Results

After adjusting for sociodemographic factors and the presence of chronic pain, children with CP had higher odds of anxiety (odds ratio [OR] 4.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.9–8.5), behavior/conduct problems (OR 3.9; 95% CI 1.4–11.3), and multimorbidity (OR 2.8; 95% CI 1.1–7.0), but not depression (OR 1.4; 95% CI 0.6–3.8) or attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (OR 1.7; 95% CI 0.6–4.6), compared to controls. With adjustment for participation in activities, the odds of anxiety, behavior/conduct problems, and multimorbidity remained increased in children with CP. With adjustment for difficulty with friendships, the odds of anxiety, behavior/conduct problems, and multimorbidity were no longer increased in children with CP. With adjustment for bully victimization, the odds of behavior/conduct problems and multimorbidity were attenuated in children with CP; however, the odds of anxiety remained increased.

Interpretation

The elevated prevalence of certain mental health disorders in children with CP is partly associated with modifiable social factors.

What this paper adds

Difficulty with friendships predicts an elevated prevalence of psychiatric conditions in children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Bully victimization predicts an elevated prevalence of behavior/conduct problems in children with CP.

Low participation does not predict mental health disorders in this population.
Utility of point‐of‐care vs reference laboratory testing for the evaluation of glucose levels
Authors: Andriankaja O. M. , Muñoz‐Torres F. J. , Vergara J. L. , Pérez C. M. , Joshipura K.
Published: February 2019

Aims

To assess the level of agreement between point‐of‐care and laboratory reference glucose values in defining glycaemic status.

Methods

We analysed 1292 overweight/obese, non‐institutionalized participants, aged 40–65 years, in the San Juan Overweight Adults Longitudinal Study. Fasting venous blood glucose was determined using a point‐of‐care Bayer Contour Blood Glucose Meter and by Vitros System 250 instrument (laboratory). American Diabetes Association thresholds were used to classify participants into normoglycaemia (< 5.6 mmol/l), prediabetes (5.6 to 6.9 mmol/l), or diabetes groups (≥ 7 mmol/l).

Results

Bland–Altman plot analysis showed a slope of 0.04 (P=0.002) for the regression between the mean difference and the average of the two methods. The slopes were significantly different from zero among people with normoglycaemia (β=–0.57, P<0.001), and prediabetes (β=–0.75, P<0.001) but not among people with diabetes (β=–0.02, P=0.68). When the prediabetes and diabetes groups were merged into one group, the slope was 0.01, and the glucose values remained similar using the two methods (P=0.76).

Conclusion

Point‐of‐care blood glucose measurement may be useful to screen people with diabetes, and to assess glucose among individuals with diabetes where blood can be drawn, but laboratory tests are unavailable or untimely.
A modelling study of the budget impact of improved glycaemic control in adults with Type 1 diabetes in the UK
Authors: Choudhary P. , de Portu S. , Delbaere A. , Lyon J. , Pickup J. C.
Published: February 2019

Aims

To develop a novel interactive budget impact model that assesses affordability of diabetes treatments in specific populations, and to test the model in a hypothetical scenario by estimating cost savings resulting from reduction in HbA1c from ≥69 mmol/mol (8.5%) to a target of 53 mmol/mol (7.0%) in adults with Type 1 diabetes in the UK.

Methods

A dynamic, interactive model was created using the projected incidence and progression over a 5‐year horizon of diabetes‐related complications (micro‐ and macrovascular disease, severe hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis) for different HbA1c levels, with flexible input of population size, complications and therapy costs, HbA1c distribution and other variables. The model took a National Health Service and societal perspective.

Results

The model was developed, and in the proposed hypothetical situation, reductions in complications and expected costs evaluated. Achievement of target HbA1c in individuals with HbA1c ≥69 mmol/mol (8.5%) would reduce expected chronic complications from 6.8 to 1.2 events per 100 person‐years, and diabetic ketoacidosis from 14.5 to 1.0 events per 100 person‐years. Potential cumulative direct cost savings achievable in the modelled population were estimated at £687 m over 5 years (£5,585/person), with total (direct and indirect) savings of £1,034 m (£8,400/person).

Conclusions

Implementation of strategies aimed at achieving target glucose levels in people with Type 1 diabetes in the UK has the potential to drive a significant reduction in complication costs. This estimate may provide insights into the potential for investment in achieving savings through improved diabetes care in the UK.
Causal association between body mass index and risk of rheumatoid arthritis: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Bae Sang‐Cheol , Lee Young Ho
Published: February 2019

Objective

This study aimed to examine whether body mass index (BMI) is causally associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Method

A two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using the inverse‐variance weighted (IVW), weighted median and MR‐Egger regression methods was performed. We used the publicly available summary statistics data sets of genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) meta‐analyses for BMI in individuals of European descent (n = 322 154; GIANT consortium) as the exposure and a GWAS for noncancer illness code self‐reported: RA from the individuals included in the UK Biobank (total n = 337 159; case = 7480, control = 329 679) as the outcome.

Results

We selected 68 single nucleotide polymorphisms at genome‐wide significance from GWASs on BMI as the instrumental variables. The IVW method showed evidence to support a causal association between BMI and RA (beta = 0.003, SE = 0.001, P = 0.033). MR‐Egger regression revealed that directional pleiotropy was unlikely to be biasing the result (intercept = −3.54E‐05; P = 0.736), but it showed no causal association between BMI and RA (beta = 0.004, SE = 0.004, P = 0.302). However, the weighted median approach yielded evidence of a causal association between BMI and RA (beta = 0.006, SE = 0.002, P = 0.004). Cochran's Q test and the funnel plot indicated no evidence of heterogeneity and asymmetry, indicating no directional pleiotropy.

Conclusion

The results of MR analysis support that BMI may be causally associated with an increased risk of RA.
Psychosocial factors and self‐reported transitions in oral and general health
Authors: Brennan David S. , Mittinty Manasi M. , Jamieson Lisa
Published: February 2019

Psychosocial factors may explain variance in health beyond conventional indicators, such as behaviours. This study aimed to examine changes in health associated with perceived stress, social support, and self‐efficacy, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and health behaviour. A random sample of 45‐ to 54‐yr‐old subjects was surveyed in 2004–2005, with a follow‐up 2 yr later. The outcomes were self‐reported changes in oral and general health. Explanatory variables included stress, social support, and perceived health competence with covariates of income, gender, dentition status, toothbrushing, and smoking. Responses were collected from 986 persons (response = 44.4%). At the 2‐yr follow‐up, 25.6% reported worsening in oral health and 15.3% reported worsening in general health. Prevalence ratios (PR) from adjusted log‐binomial regression showed an association between worsening oral health and higher perceived health competence (PR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.57–0.99), and worsening general health was associated with perceived health competence (PR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.72–0.94) and stress (PR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.03–1.32). Worsening oral and general health were seen for male subjects (PR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.06–1.68 and PR = 1.14, 95% CI: 1.01–1.29) and low income (PR = 1.40, 95% CI: 1.04–1.89 and PR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.03–1.40). Health‐related self‐efficacy representing psychosocial resilience was associated with oral and general health, while stress was associated with general health. Psychosocial factors were independent predictors of change in health after controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and health behaviours.
Deconstructing an infamous extinction crisis: Survival of Partula species on Moorea and Tahiti
Authors: Haponski Amanda E. , Lee Taehwan , Ó Foighil Diarmaid
Published: February 2019

Eleven of eighteen Society Island Partula species endemic to the Windward Island subgroup (Moorea and Tahiti) have been extirpated by an ill‐advised biological control program. The conservation status of this critically endangered tree snail radiation is of considerable import, but is clouded by taxonomic uncertainty due to the extensive lack of congruence among species designations, diagnostic morphologies, and molecular markers. Using a combination of museum, captive, and remnant wild snails, we obtained the first high‐resolution nuclear genomic perspective of the evolutionary relationships and survival of fourteen Windward Island Partula species, totaling 93 specimens. We analyzed ~1,607–28,194 nuclear genomic loci collected with the double digest restriction‐site associated sequencing method. Results from phylogenomic trees, species estimation, and population assignment tests yielded monophyly of the Windward Island subgroup. Within this group, two well‐supported clades encompassing five species complexes were recovered. Clade 1 was restricted to Tahiti and contained two species complexes: “P. affinis” (three species) and “P. otaheitana” (five species). Clade 2 occurred on Moorea and on Tahiti and consisted of three species complexes: one Tahitian, “P. clara/P. hyalina”; the other two, “P. taeniata” (three species) and “P. suturalis” (six species), Moorean. Our genomic results largely corroborated previous mitochondrial DNA survival estimates for Moorea and Tahiti, with all five species complexes having members surviving in captivity and/or as remnant wild populations, although the details vary in each case. Continued, proactive conservation and management may yet ensure a phylogenetically representative survival of the fabled Partula species of Moorea and Tahiti.
Right to left patent ductus arteriosus, acute bronchointerstitial pneumonia, pulmonary hypertension and cor pulmonale in a foal
Authors: Saadi A. , Dalir‐Naghadeh B. , Hashemi‐Asl S. M. , Tehrani A. A. , Hobbenaghi R. , Mahmoudi S. S. , Shalizar‐Jalali A.
Published: February 2019

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a rare congenital cardiac defect in foals causing left to right shunting from the aorta to pulmonary artery. In extremely rare conditions, complications with pulmonary hypertension can result in right to left shunting (Eisenmenger's physiology); however, reversed or right to left shunting has not yet been precisely described inPDA‐affected equids. This report describes a unique and unusual case of right to leftPDAassociated with acute respiratory distress syndrome in a 20‐day‐old male foal. A holosystolic murmur over the tricuspid valve area and adventitious pulmonary sounds respectively on cardiac and thoracic auscultations, caudodorsally interstitial and bronchointerstitial pulmonary opacities on thoracic radiography, right atrial and ventricular dilatations with paradoxical ventricular septal motion, increased ratio of pulmonary artery internal diameter to the aorta and tricuspid valve regurgitation on echocardiography were detected. Post‐mortem and histopathological examinations revealed consolidated, dark red and diffusely enlarged lungs with granular appearance, marked enlargement of the right atrium and ventricle, pulmonary artery thickening and enlargement, patency of the ductus arteriosus, hyaline membrane formation, typeIIpneumocyte proliferation, hypertrophy and thickening of the pulmonary arteries medial layers and right ventricular myocardial cells distortion and hypertrophy. The findings suggest a right to left shunting through the persistent patency of the ductus arteriosus, pulmonary hypertension and cor pulmonale. We proposed pulmonary hypertension associated with bronchointerstitial pneumonia as a cause of this unusual case ofPDAwith reversed shunt direction.
Exploring the relationship between flapping behaviour and accelerometer signal during ascending flight, and a new approach to calibration
Authors: Van Walsum Tessa A. , Perna Andrea , Bishop Charles M. , Murn Campbell P. , Collins Philip M. , Wilson Rory P. , Halsey Lewis G.
Published: February 2019

We understand little about the energetic costs of flight in free‐ranging birds, in part because current techniques for estimating flight energetics in the wild are limited. Accelerometry is known to estimate energy expenditure through body movement in terrestrial animals, once calibrated using a treadmill with chamber respirometry. The flight equivalent, a wind tunnel with mask respirometry, is particularly difficult to instigate, and has not been applied to calibrate accelerometry. We take the first steps in exploring a novel method for calibrating accelerometers with flight energy expenditure. We collected accelerometry data for Harris's Hawks Parabuteo unicinctus flying to varying heights up to 4.1 m over a small horizontal distance; the mechanical energy expended to gain height can be estimated from physical first principles. The relationship between accelerometry and mechanical energy expenditure was strong, and while a simple wing flapping model confirmed that accelerometry is sensitive to both changes in wing beat amplitude and frequency, the relationship was explained predominately by changes in wing beat frequency, and less so by changes in amplitude. Our study provides initial, positive evidence that accelerometry can be calibrated with body power using climbing flights, potentially providing a basis for estimating flapping flight metabolic rate at least in situations of altitude gain.
Processing methods for making porous bioactive glass‐based scaffolds—A state‐of‐the‐art review
Authors: Baino Francesco , Fiume Elisa , Barberi Jacopo , Kargozar Saeid , Marchi Juliana , Massera Jonathan , Verné Enrica
Published: February 2019

Bioactive glasses exhibit the unique ability of bone bonding, thus creating a stable interface by stimulating bone cells toward mechanisms of regeneration and self‐repair activated by ionic dissolution products. Therefore, 3D glass‐derived scaffolds can be considered ideal porous templates to be used in bone tissue engineering strategies and regenerative medicine. This review provides a comprehensive overview of all technological aspects relevant to the fabrication of bioactive glass scaffolds, including the fundamentals of materials processing, a summary of the conventional porogen, and template‐based methods and of recent additive manufacturing technologies, which are promising for large‐scale production of highly reproducible and reliable implants suitable for a wide range of clinical applications.
Sunburn and sun protection in black skin
Authors: Diffey Brian L. , Fajuyigbe Damilola , Wright Caradee Y.
Published: February 2019

Background

People with black skin are much less susceptible to sunburn than white‐skinned individuals, yet there are scarce data on self‐reported incidence of sunburn and sun protection measures in people with deeply‐pigmented skin.

Method

An on‐line survey tool was used to collect self‐assessed data about demographic variables, sunburn incidence, and use of sun protection modalities.

Results

Two‐thirds of respondents with black skin living in the UK claimed never to have been sunburnt; a much higher proportion than those living in South Africa and Nigeria where 34 and 46%, respectively, reported never experiencing sunburn. Similar results were seen in the reported use of sun protection measures between the countries with two‐thirds of black people living in the UK claiming they never used any form of sun protection compared with about one‐third of Black Africans. Black people living in the UK were more likely to use sunscreen as a form of sun protection, whereas sunscreen was the least popular modality in the two African countries with shade being the most common form of limiting sun exposure.

Conclusion

The findings provide some insight into the complexities of skin color perception, incidence of sunburn, and sun protection use among people with deeply‐pigmented skin living in three countries with large differences in the solar UV environment.
Cross‑cultural adaptation and psychometric properties of the Indonesia version of the self‐efficacy oral health questionnaire for adolescents
Authors: Rachmawati Yuanita Lely , Maharani Diah Ayu , Oho Takahiko
Published: February 2019

Background

Self‐efficacy can be interpreted as a self‐belief that one has successfully committed to a specific situation or maintained a specific behaviour.

Aim

We aimed to test the reliability and validity of a cross‐cultural adaptation of the self‐efficacy oral health (SEOH) questionnaire in the Indonesian language among adolescents and to understand the diverse perspectives of oral health self‐efficacy related to gender.

Design

A cross‐cultural adaptation of the SEOH self‐administered questionnaire was completed followed by a dental caries examination. Sample size estimation suggested 341 adolescents aged 12‐13 years. Eleven junior high schools were clustered and randomly selected from six districts across Jakarta, Indonesia.

Results

The SEOH was reliable with interclass correlation and Cronbach's alpha values of 0.86 and 0.86, respectively. Significant results for the construct and discriminant validity analyses were observed. There was no significant difference in terms of the total score between males and females, but there was a significant difference in terms of the psychology control domain.

Conclusions

Our study results provide evidence supporting the reliability and validity of the Indonesian version of the SEOH questionnaire for adolescents across Indonesia.
The psychometric properties of the CFSS‐DS for schoolchildren in Saudi Arabia: A confirmatory factor analytic approach
Authors: Alharbi Amjad , Humphris Gerry , Freeman Ruth
Published: February 2019

Aim

To test the psychometric properties of an Arabic version of the Child Fear Survey Schedule‐Dental Subscale (CFSS‐DS) a using confirmatory factor analysis.

Methods

Two convenience samples were obtained: Sample [1]: 600 boys (33%) and girls attending 4 public schools in Onizah and Sample [2] 800 girls attending 8 public schools in Buridah. The questionnaire asked the participant's age, gender, and completion of the CFSS‐DS. The data were subjected to exploratory factor analysis (EFA), parallel factor analysis, Cronbach's alpha, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and goodness of fit statistics.

Results

A total of 513 children in Sample [1] and 503 children in Sample [2] participated giving a valid response rate of 86% and 67%, respectively. From the EFA, 3 factors were identified and confirmed statistically using parallel factor analysis. The internal consistency of the 3 factors, Dental Fear Subscale (0.86), Hospital Fear Subscale (0.77), and Stranger Fear Subscale (0.71), was good. The CFA showed that the current EFA model was an equivalent fit to the El Housseiny et al (BMC Oral Health 2016;16:49). model; however, the solution using El Housseiny et al's structure was distorted.

Conclusions

A 3‐factor structure with acceptable reliability exists for this Arabic version of the CFSS‐DS, confirmed by a CFA using an additional data set.