bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Premier signalement de Deudorix livia (Lepidoptera: Lycanidae) en Algérie: Un ravageur important du grenadier et du palmier dattier
Authors: Beladis B. , Verheggen F. , Baba Aissa N. , Boukraa S. , Salah Ou Elhadj B. , Yagoub L. , Doumandji S. , Guezoul O.
Published: July 2018

First record of Deudorix livia (Lepidoptera: Lycanidae) from Algeria: an important pest of pomegranate and date palm

In the framework of an entomological study carried out from 2013 to 2017 aiming to identify a harmful organism in several oases of the northern Sahara of Algeria, the authors have identified the presence of Deudorix livia (Klug, 1834) (Lepidoptera: Lycanidae). This is the first record of this species in the northern Sahara of Algeria. This insect is an important pest of the fruits of two crops: the date palm and the pomegranate tree. The main criteria for determining this species are specified, as well as the host plants on which the insect was observed. The symptoms and damage that have been observed are also detailed. The authors describe the different Algerian localities where this species has been reported, and discuss the potential economic impact of this pest.
Privacy Issues in Smartphone Applications: An Analysis of Headache/Migraine Applications
Authors: Minen Mia T. , Stieglitz Eric J. , Sciortino Rose , Torous John
Published: July 2018

Background

Headache diaries are a mainstay of migraine management. While many commercial smartphone applications (apps) have been developed for people with migraine, little is known about how well these apps protect patient information and whether they are secure to use.

Objective

We sought to assess whether there are privacy issues surrounding apps so that physicians and patients could better understand what medical information patients are providing to the app companies, and the potential privacy implications of how the app companies (and other third parties) might use that information.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search of the most popular “headache” and “migraine” apps and developed a database of the types of data the apps requested for input by the user and whether the apps had clear privacy policies. We also examined the content of the privacy policies.

Results

Twenty‐nine apps were examined (14 diary apps, 15 relaxation apps). Of the diary applications, 79% (11/14) had visible privacy policies. Of the diary apps with privacy policies, all (11/11) stated whether or not the app collects and stores information remotely. A total of 55% (6/11) stated that some user data were used to serve targeted advertisements. A total of 11/15 (73%) of the relaxation apps had privacy policies.

Conclusions

Headache apps shared information with third parties, posing privacy risks partly because there are few legal protections against the sale or disclosure of data from medical apps to third parties.
Presence of gastric Helicobacter species in children suffering from gastric disorders in Southern Turkey
Authors: Bahadori Ali , De Witte Chloë , Agin Mehmet , De Bruyckere Sofie , Smet Annemieke , Tümgör Gökhan , Gökmen Tülin Güven , Haesebrouck Freddy , Köksal Fatih
Published: July 2018

Background

Infections with gastric Helicobacter spp. are associated with gastritis, peptic ulceration, and malignancies. Helicobacter pylori is the most prevalent Helicobacter species colonizing the human stomach. Other gastric non‐H. pylori helicobacters (NHPHs) have been described in 0.2%‐6% of human patients with gastric disorders. Nevertheless, due to difficulties in the diagnosis of NHPH infections and lack of routine screening, this is most likely an underestimation of their true prevalence. To the best of our knowledge, no studies have been performed in the presence of Helicobacter spp. in children suffering from gastric disorders in Southern Turkey.

Materials and methods

In total, 110 children with gastric complaints were examined at the Cukurova University Balcali hospital, Turkey. Gastroscopy was performed to evaluate the presence of gastric mucosal lesions. Biopsies of the pyloric gland zone were taken for histopathological analysis, rapid urease testing, and presence of Helicobacter spp. DNA by PCR.

Results

Based on the PCR results, the prevalence of Helicobacter spp. was 32.7% (36/110). H. pylori was found in 30.9% (34/110), H. suis in 1.8% (2/110), and H. heilmannii/H. ailurogastricus in 0.9% (1/110) of the human patients. A mixed infection with H. pylori and H. suis was present in one patient. The presence of mucosal abnormalities, such as nodular inflammation, ulceration, and hyperemia, as well as gastritis, was significantly higher in Helicobacter spp. positive patients.

Conclusion

Helicobacter pylori, H. suis, and H. heilmannii/H. ailurogastricus were present in children with gastric complaints. Infection with these pathogens may be involved in the development of gastritis and ulceration.
Social Class, Migration Policy and Migrant Strategies: An Introduction
Authors: Bonjour Saskia , Chauvin Sébastien
Published: July 2018

The introduction to this special issue traces class at the interface between migration policy and migrant strategies. Scholarship on the politics of migration and citizenship has thus far largely neglected class. In contrast, we contend that discourses on migration, integration and citizenship are inevitably classed. Assessed through seemingly heterogeneous criteria of “merit” and “performance”, class serves as an analytical connector between economic and identity rationales which intersect in all migration policies, including those regulating family and humanitarian admission. Class‐selective policy frames can function as constraints maintaining some aspiring migrants into immobility or channeling different groups of migrants into separate and unequal incorporation routes. Yet, policy frames can also serve as resources to strategize with as migrants navigate and perform gendered and classed expectations embedded into receiving‐country migration regimes. We conclude that connecting policy with migrant strategies is key to reintroducing class without naturalizing classed strategies of mobility.
Low‐molecular‐mass hyaluronan induces pulmonary inflammation by up‐regulation of Mcl‐1 to inhibit neutrophil apoptosis via PI3K/Akt1 pathway
Authors: Zhao Hang , Ma Yating , Zhang Leifang
Published: July 2018

Although low‐molecular‐mass hyaluronan (LMMHA) has been implicated in pulmonary inflammatory diseases, the signalling pathway of LMMHA (200 000 molecular weight) that initiates the inflammatory response in lung is still unknown. In this study, we evaluate the role of phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) and its downstream signalling pathway in LMMHA‐induced lung inflammatory responses. Our results indicate that pharmacological inhibition of PI3K or genetic deletion of Akt1 enhances neutrophil apoptosis, attenuates neutrophil influx into the lungs of mice and diminishes the expression of pro‐inflammatory factors such as interleukin‐6, keratinocyte cell‐derived chemokine and pro‐matrix metalloproteinase‐9 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid after intratracheal administration of LMMHA. More importantly, we found that PI3K/Akt1 participates in LMMHA‐induced inflammatory responses, which are mainly mediated by the myeloid leukaemia cell differentiation protein (Mcl‐1). Our study suggests that LMMHA induced significantly increased levels of inflammatory factors in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and activation of the PI3K/Akt1 pathway, which up‐regulates the expression of the anti‐apoptotic protein Mcl‐1 and inhibits the activation of caspase‐3, thereby suppressing neutrophil apoptosis to trigger lung inflammation. These findings reveal a novel molecular mechanism underlying sterile inflammation and provides a new potential target for the treatment of pulmonary disease.
Family and community in the lives of UK Bangladeshi parents with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Durling Emily , Chinn Deborah , Scior Katrina
Published: July 2018

Background

Little is known about the lives of parents with intellectual disabilities from minority ethnic communities. Previous research suggests that what it means to live with intellectual disabilities varies across cultural contexts. The current research aimed to explore how cultural values and practices impact upon the experiences of parents with intellectual disabilities within the Bangladeshi community in London, England.

Method

Six members of the Bangladeshi community, four Bangladeshi parents with intellectual disabilities and four of their family members were interviewed. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes.

Results

Both parenting and intellectual disability are thought about in this community in ways that make parenting more accessible for people with learning disabilities, but also create tensions to be negotiated.

Conclusions

Bangladeshi family carers face dilemmas balancing the benefits and risks of promoting parenting for sons and daughters with intellectual disabilities, particularly in the context of service principles of autonomy and informed consent.
Factors associated with mental health among high school students in Iran: Does mobile phone overuse associate with poor mental health?
Authors: Mahmoodi Hassan , Nadrian Haidar , Shaghaghi Abdolreza , Jafarabadi Mohammad Asghari , Ahmadi Asad , Saqqezi Galavidj Sharifi
Published: July 2018

Problem

Mobile phone (MP) overuse is extensively rising among high school students in developing countries. Our aim in this study is to investigate the association between MP overuse and mental health, in the presence of other determinant factors, among high school students in Iran.

Methods

We recruited a clustered random sample of 1,034 high school students in Saqqez County, Iran, to complete a self‐administered questionnaire with three sections: a sociodemographic questionnaire, Mobile Phone Addiction Index, and General Health Questionnaire.

Findings

A majority of the students (n = 654, 63.2%) were found to be with poor mental health. Applying multiple logistic regression, gender (odds ratio [OR] = 1.5; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.15–1.97), education degree (OR = 1.47; 95% CI = 1.30–1.67), frequency of daily messages (OR = 1.18; 95% CI = 1.07–1.31), being awakened at night for MP use (OR = 1.83; 95% CI = 1.54–2.18), and MP overuse (OR = 3.21; 95% CI = 1.20–8.58) were found in significant associations with poor mental health.

Conclusions

Planning gender‐based health education programs on proper use of MP for students and their parents is suggested to school healthcare providers. The parents should be educated on the proper ways of dealing with their adolescents while using MP at home.
RNF168 facilitates oestrogen receptor ɑ transcription and drives breast cancer proliferation
Authors: Liu Zhenhua , Zhang Jinghang , Xu Juntao , Yang Huijie , Li Xin , Hou Yingxiang , Zhao Yan , Xue Min , Wang Beibei , Yu Na , Yu Sifan , Niu Gang , Wu Gaosong , Li Xiumin , Wang Hui , Zhu Jian , Zhuang Ting
Published: July 2018

Oestrogen receptor ɑ (ERɑ) is overexpressed in two‐thirds of all breast cancers and involves in development and breast cancer progression. Although ERɑ‐positive breast cancer could be effective treated by endocrine therapy, the endocrine resistance is still an urgent clinical problem. Thus, further understanding of the underlying mechanisms ERɑ signalling is critical in dealing with endocrine resistance in breast cancer patients. MCF‐7 and T47D breast cancer cell lines are used to carry out the molecular biological experiments. Western blot is used to assess the relative protein level of ERɑ, RNF168 and actin. Real‐time PCR is used the measure the relative ERɑ‐related gene mRNA level. Luciferase assay is used to measure the relative ERɑ signalling activity. Chromatin immunoprecipitation is used to measure the RNF168 binding affinity to ERɑ promoter regions. WST assay and flow cytometry are used to measure the cell proliferation capacity. We use Student's t test and one‐way ANOVA test for statistical data analysis. Here, we report an important role in ERɑ‐positive breast cancer cells for RNF168 protein in supporting cell proliferation by driving the transcription of ERɑ. RNF168 is highly expressed in breast cancer samples, compared with normal breast tissue. In patients with breast cancer, RNF168 expression level is correlated with poor endocrine treatment outcome. Depletion of RNF168 causes decreased cell proliferation in MCF‐7 and T47D cells. Besides, depletion RNF168 reduced mRNA level of ERɑ and its target genes, such as PS2 and GREB1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation revealed that ERɑ transcription is associated with RNF168 recruitment to ERɑ promoter region, suggesting that transcriptional regulation is one mechanism by which RNF168 regulates ERɑ mRNA level and ERɑ signalling in breast cancer cells. RNF168 is required for ERɑ‐positive breast cancer cell proliferation and facilitate ERɑ signalling activity possibly through promoting transcription of ERɑ.
Aldose reductase inhibitor ranirestat significantly improves nerve conduction velocity in diabetic polyneuropathy: A randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled study in Japan
Authors: Sekiguchi Kenji , Kohara Nobuo , Baba Masayuki , Komori Tetsuo , Naito Yutaka , Imai Tomihiro , Satoh Jo , Yamaguchi Yasuyuki , Hamatani Tatsuto ,   the Ranirestat Group
Published: July 2018

Aims/Introduction

Diabetic polyneuropathy is one of the most frequent diabetic complications, and impairs patients’ quality of life. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of ranirestat (40 mg/day) in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy.

Materials and Methods

This was a multicenter, placebo‐controlled, randomized double‐blind, parallel‐group, phase III study in which 557 patients were randomly assigned to either the ranirestat or placebo group and assessed for 52 weeks. The co‐primary end‐points were the changes in tibial motor nerve conduction velocity and total modified Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Score as a measure of clinical symptoms.

Results

There was a significant increase in tibial motor nerve conduction velocity in the ranirestat group compared with the placebo group. The difference between groups in the change at last observation was 0.52 m/s (P = 0.021). Increases in nerve conduction velocity in the ranirestat group were found not only in the tibial motor nerves, but also in the median motor nerves, proximal median sensory nerves and distal median sensory nerves. No significant differences in modified Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Score or safety parameters were found between the two groups.

Conclusions

Ranirestat (40 mg/day) was well tolerated and improved nerve conduction velocity. Regarding symptoms and signs, no detectable benefits over the placebo were observed in the ranirestat group during the 52 weeks of treatment.
Pathogenicity and virulence factors of Lysinibacillus xylanilyticus and Bacillus spp. towards Argyrotaenia sphaleropa larvae (Lepidoptera)
Authors: Abreo Eduardo , Valle Diana , Mujica Valentina , Altier Nora
Published: July 2018

Argyrotaenia sphaleropa is a lepidopteran pest in deciduous fruit orchards in Uruguay. The primary control method of these pests is the use of chemical insecticides; however, alternative strategies, friendlier to the environment and compatible with a regional programme of integrated pest management, are definitely needed. Biological control with the use of local entomopathogenic microorganisms could be a sustainable solution. In this study, a biological screening was conducted to characterize spore‐forming bacilli for their capacity to kill larvae of this species. Bacillus thuringiensis, B. pumilus, B. aryabhattai, B. amyloliquefaciens and Lysinibacillus xylanilyticus were identified based on sequence analyses of 16S and partial GyrB gene. Lysinibacilus xylanilyticus showed the highest mortality towards first‐instar larvae fed with diet treated with spore suspensions. Specific virulence factors like proteinaceous parasporal inclusions were observed not only in isolates of B. thuringiensis but also in L. xylanilyticus. Ordering of isolates based on multivariate analysis of putative secondary virulence factors like biosurfactant and biofilm production, haemolytic activity and motility, separated the virulent isolate of L. xylanilyticus. This is the first report of L. xylanilyticus causing mortality in A. sphaleropa or any other member of Lepidoptera. A search for more virulent strains of this species is envisaged.
Prevalence of primary dysmenorrhea and its relationship with body mass index
Authors: Rafique Nazish , Al‐Sheikh Mona H.
Published: July 2018

Aim

To identify the association between primary dysmenorrhea (PD) and body mass index (BMI).

Methods

This cross sectional study was conducted on 370 female students (aged 18–25 years) of Immam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University Dammam, from March 2016 till March 2017. Pretested dysmenorrhea questionnaire was filled by the students. Weight and heights of the subjects were measured, and BMI was calculated. Based on BMI, subjects were divided into four groups (underweight [UW], normal weight, overweight and obese [OB]). Subjects were also categorized into mild, moderate and severe dysmenorrhic groups based on numeric pain relating scale. SPSS version 20.0 was used to analyze the data.

Results

This study showed that 85.7% of the students were suffering from PD, out of which 12.7% had mild, 65.6% had moderate and 8.4% had severe dysmenorrhea. In total, 54.5% of the students mentioned that dysmenorrhea interferes with their daily activities. Whereas 55.8% of the students mentioned that they got pain relief by using non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. Pair wise comparison of dysmenorrhea between different BMI groups showed a statistically significant difference in the frequency of moderate and severe dysmenorrhea between UW and OB subjects (P values 0.003 and 0.06) respectively, indicating that UW females are at a higher risk of having PD.

Conclusion

This study indicates a higher prevalence of moderate and severe dysmenorrhea in UW as compared to the OB subjects. We recommend further studies to explore the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for this association.
Urogenital symptoms in women with Tarlov cysts
Authors: Baker Molly , Wilson Machelle , Wallach Stacey
Published: July 2018

Aim

To describe the clinical findings and urogenital symptoms associated with sacral perineural cysts (Tarlov cysts).

Methods

A retrospective chart review including 65 female patients with Tarlov cysts was completed. Clinical findings were collected from a database of subjects seen in our institution's urogynecology and neurosurgery clinics between 2004 and 2015. A statistical analysis was performed to test for any correlation between cyst size or location, and patient symptoms or examination findings.

Results

Tarlov cysts were most commonly located from S2 to S3 (73%), and ranged in size from 1 to 2 cm (55%). Frequently reported symptoms included lower back pain (83%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.71–0.91), lower extremity radiculopathy (75%, CI 0.63–0.85), positional pain (62%, CI 0.50–0.73), urinary urgency (54%, CI 0.41–0.66) and urinary frequency (48%, CI 0.35–0.61). Common urodynamic findings included an early sensation of filling (70%), involuntary detrusor contractions (33%), urethral instability (33%) and stress urinary incontinence (33%). A statistical analysis comparing cyst size and location to clinical findings was significant for a correlation between an S2 location and central nervous system symptoms (P = 0.02), larger cyst size and urinary dysfunction (P = 0.05) and smaller cyst size and an early sensation of filling (P = 0.05).

Conclusion

Patients with symptomatic sacral Tarlov cysts frequently report pain and neuropathy related to the lower back, pelvis and urogenital system. As compared to the general population, urinary urgency and urodynamic findings associated with urgency were more frequent in our patient sample. These findings suggest that Tarlov cysts may have a clinically significant impact on urogenital function.
47‐Fold rise of diabetes in childbearing age Chilean women: Markov model and cost‐effectiveness of prevention of birth defects
Authors: Olmos Pablo , Borzone Gisella , Poblete Andrés
Published: July 2018

Aim

Prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) during childbearing age in Chile had a 47‐fold rise in 7 years, reaching 120 844 women, half of which are unaware of their condition. We aimed to project pregnancies and births among Chilean women of childbearing age (WCBA) with T2DM and report the incidence of birth defects and the associated years of life lost and lifetime costs.

Methods

Markov model of cohort of WCBA with T2DM (WCBA‐DM) with a 20‐year time horizon (2018–2037), using data from previous studies. Two scenarios were assessed: scenario A: no universal detection of T2DM and scenario B: universal screening of T2DM using glycosylated hemoglobin levels. Both lifetime costs and disability‐adjusted life years (DALY) were calculated with a 5% discount rate (US$ of 2017).

Results

In scenario A, 12 163 infants with birth defects could be born among the analyzed cohort, resulting in 243 260 years of life lost, 296 652 DALY and in lifetime costs of US$ 1 957 657 966. In scenario B, the first three figures could be reduced by 70.4% to 3599 infants with birth defects, 71 980 years of life lost and 87 794 DALY. Due to the addition ofdiabetes screening and new patient coststo scenario B, there would be a lesser reduction (67.3%) in total lifetime costs, to US$ 640 669 296.

Conclusion

Screening of diabetes in WCBA would yield a 20‐year reduction of 70.4% in the number of infants with birth defects, years of life lost and DALY. Total lifetime costs could be reduced by 67.3%.
Practical use of C1 esterase inhibitor concentrate for clinical amniotic fluid embolism
Authors: Akasaka Miki , Osato Kazuhiro , Sakamoto Mito , Kihira Tomohisa , Ikeda Tomoaki , Yamawaki Takaharu
Published: July 2018

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) causes consumption coagulopathy, which requires a massive transfusion to save the mother's life. The preparation of such a massive transfusion is too time‐consuming in extremely emergent clinical settings and occasionally leads to devastating side effects such as transfusion‐associated acute lung injury. C1 esterase inhibitor (C1INH) is a protein with the ability to inhibit complement, coagulation and kinin pathways. The C1INH concentration in AFE patients is low, and it has been speculated that the administration of C1INH concentrate could have a striking and beneficial effect on AFE patients in critical condition by ameliorating their perturbed coagulation system. We report the case of a 32‐year‐old Japanese AFE patient in whom deteriorated vital signs and coagulopathy recovered within minutes after an injection of C1INH concentrate. C1INH concentrate can quickly revive the deteriorated vital signs and the atonic uterus that stem from AFE and may reduce the total amount of transfusion.
Influence of hydatid disease on the pregnancy outcomes: An experimental study
Authors: Moazeni Mohammad , Asadpour Mohammad , Malekpour Seyed Hossein
Published: July 2018

Aim

Hydatid disease during pregnancy may lead to various complications in both mother and child. Accordingly, enough knowledge is required to manage these complications. This study was done to evaluate the interaction between hydatid disease and pregnancy in laboratory mice.

Methods

Twenty female BALB/c mice (Mus musculus) were divided into test and control groups, 10 animal in each. The mice of the test group were infected intraperitoneally by injection of 1000 protoescolices. Six months after infection, the mice of test and control groups were mated with male mice for a week. After parturition, the size and weight of babies were measured and compared between two groups.

Results

While all the mice of control group delivered healthy babies, 3 out of 10 mice of test group showed no pregnancy. The infected mice delivered lower number of babies than the mice of control group. The mean size of fetuses or babies obtained from the infected mice were statistically lower than those obtained from the mice of control group (P = 0.000). The weight of babies delivered by the infected mice not only at the time of birth (P = 0.005) but also 10 days after birth (P = 0.021), were significantly lower than those delivered by the mice of control group. The level of progesterone and estradiol in the mice of test group were significantly lower (P = 0.009) and higher (P = 0.043), respectively, in comparison to the mice of control group.

Conclusion

Hydatid disease during pregnancy may considerably affect the pregnancy outcomes.
Detection of blood Gb3 deposits as a new tool for diagnosis and therapy monitoring in patients with classic Fabry disease
Authors: Üçeyler N. , Böttger J. , Henkel L. , Langjahr M. , Mayer C. , Nordbeck P. , Wanner C. , Sommer C.
Published: July 2018

Background

The X‐linked Fabry disease (FD) is a multiorgan disorder due to alpha‐galactosidase A (α‐GAL) deficiency with consequent lysosomal accumulation of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3). We established the immunocytochemical detection of Gb3 in blood cells of FD patients as a new method for FD diagnostics, follow‐up and treatment control.

Methods

We enrolled 67 FD patients (37 men, 30 women) and 52 healthy controls (26 men, 26 women). PBMC were isolated from whole venous blood and 3x105 cells were immunoreacted with antibodies against CD77 as a marker for Gb3. Using fluorescence microscopy, the mean percentage of Gb3 positive PBMC was determined by an investigator blinded to subject allocation. As a second method, we qualitatively assessed Gb3 positive cells in blood smears.

Results

Gb3 deposits were unequivocally visible in PBMC and in blood smears. Men (P < 0.001) and women (P < 0.01) with classical FD had more Gb3‐positive PBMC than healthy controls, whose samples only occasionally showed positive cells. The number of Gb3 positive PBMC was negatively correlated with α‐GAL activity and positively correlated with plasma lyso‐Gb3 levels. Only the PBMC Gb3 load but not plasma lyso‐Gb3 reflected short‐ and long‐term effects of enzyme replacement therapy (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Gb3 can be visualized in PBMC and blood smears and can be used as a novel marker for diagnostics, follow‐up and treatment control in FD.
Genetic testing for familial hypercholesterolemia among survivors of acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Benedek P. , Eriksson M. , Duvefelt K. , Freyschuss A. , Frick M. , Lundman P. , Nylund L. , Szummer K.
Published: July 2018

Background

Familial hypercholesterolemia could be prevalent among patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Objective

To investigate both the frequency of causative mutations for familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and the optimal selection of patients for genetic testing among patients with an acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods

One hundred and sixteen patients with an ACS during 2009–2015 were identified through the SWEDEHEART registry. Patients who had either a high total cholesterol level ≥7 mmol L−1 combined with a triglyceride level ≤2.6 mmol L−1, or were treated with lipid‐lowering medication and had a total cholesterol level >4.9 mmol L−1 and a triglyceride level ≤2.6 mmol L−1 were included. Genetic testing was performed first with a regionally designed FH mutation panel (118 mutations), followed by testing with a commercially available FH genetic analysis (Progenika Biopharma).

Results

A total of 6.9% (8/116) patients had a FH‐causative mutation, all in the LDL‐receptor. Five patients were detected on the panel, and further testing of the remaining 111 patients detected an additional 3 FH‐causative mutations. Baseline characteristics were similar in FH‐positive and FH‐negative patients with respect to age, gender, prior ACS and diabetes. Patients with a FH‐causative mutation had higher Dutch Lipid Clinical Network (DLCN) score (5.5 (5.0–6.5) vs 3.0 (2.0–5.0), P < 0.001) and a higher low‐density lipoprotein level (5.7 (4.7–6.5) vs 4.9 (3.5–5.4), P = 0.030). The Dutch Lipid Clinical Network (DLCN) score had a good discrimination with an area under the curve of 0.856 (95% CI 0.763–0.949).

Conclusion

Genetic testing for FH should be considered in patients with ACS and high DLCN score.
Consumer perceptions and other influencing factors about monosodium glutamate in the United States
Authors: Wang Shangci , Adhikari Koushik
Published: July 2018

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer commonly used in processed food products. However, its usage is controversial in the United States. This work aimed to understand the U.S. consumers’ perception about MSG and the factors influencing their attitudes. A survey questionnaire was developed based on a focus group study and then distributed in three geographical areas in the United States. Our results showed that U.S. consumers in general had a somewhat negative attitude toward MSG. Consumer's concern level about MSG was correlated with their risk and benefit perception about this ingredient. Information and natural food preference had a significant (p ≤ .05) positive contributions to risk perception. Consumers who had less negative feelings about chemicals tended to perceive more benefits from MSG. It was noticed that many respondents were confused about the differences between MSG and sodium chloride. Extracts from natural sources could be promising choices of MSG substitutes.

Practical applications

The survey created in this study threw light on understanding the U.S. consumers’ perception about monosodium glutamate (MSG). Findings from this work could be applied by food industry to better educate and communicate with consumers in terms of the issues related with MSG. In addition, with the knowledge of the factors driving consumer's perception, the food industry could use MSG substitutes and alternatives that meet the demands and satisfaction of today's consumer.
Accounting for landscape heterogeneity improves spatial predictions of tree vulnerability to drought
Authors: Schwantes Amanda M. , Parolari Anthony J. , Swenson Jennifer J. , Johnson Daniel M. , Domec Jean‐Christophe , Jackson Robert B. , Pelak Norman , Porporato Amilcare
Published: July 2018

As climate change continues, forest vulnerability to droughts and heatwaves is increasing, but vulnerability varies regionally and locally through landscape position. Also, most models used in forecasting forest responses to heat and drought do not incorporate relevant spatial processes.

In order to improve spatial predictions of tree vulnerability, we employed a nonlinear stochastic model of soil moisture dynamics accounting for landscape differences in aspect, topography and soils. Across a watershed in central Texas we modeled dynamic water stress for a dominant tree species, Juniperus ashei, and projected future dynamic water stress through the 21st century.

Modeled dynamic water stress tracked spatial patterns of remotely sensed drought‐induced canopy loss. Accuracy in predicting drought‐impacted stands increased from 60%, accounting for spatially variable soil conditions, to 72% when also including lateral redistribution of water and radiation/temperature effects attributable to aspect. Our analysis also suggests that dynamic water stress will increase through the 21st century, with trees persisting at only selected microsites.

Favorable microsites/refugia may exist across a landscape where trees can persist; however, if future droughts are too severe, the buffering capacity of an heterogeneous landscape could be overwhelmed. Incorporating spatial data will improve projections of future tree water stress and identification of potential resilient refugia.
Drought‐induced senescence of Medicago truncatula nodules involves serpin and ferritin to control proteolytic activity and iron levels
Authors: Dhanushkodi Ramadoss , Matthew Cory , McManus Michael T. , Dijkwel Paul P.
Published: July 2018

Drought is a major constraint for legume growth and yield. Senescence of nitrogen‐fixing nodules is one of the early drought responses and may cause nutrient stress in addition to water stress in legumes. For nodule senescence to function as part of a drought‐survival strategy, we propose that the intrinsically destructive senescence process must be tightly regulated.

Medicago truncatula protease inhibitor and iron scavenger‐encoding genes, possibly involved in controlling nodule senescence, were identified. RNA interference (RNAi) lines were constructed in which expression of a serpin or ferritins was knocked down. Both wild‐type and RNAi lines were subjected to drought stress and nodule activity and plant physiological responses were measured.

Drought caused M. truncatula to initiate nodule senescence before plant growth was affected and before an increase in papain‐like proteolytic activity and free iron levels was apparent. Knock‐down expression of serpin6 and ferritins caused increased protease activity, free iron levels, early nodule senescence and reduced plant growth.

The results suggest that M. truncatula nodule‐expressed serpin6 and ferritins mediate ordered drought‐induced senescence by regulating papain‐like cysteine protease activity and free iron levels. This strategy may allow the drought‐stressed plants to benefit maximally from residual nitrogen fixation and nutrient recovery resulting from break down of macromolecules.
Online, on call: the spread of digitally organised just‐in‐time working and its implications for standard employment models
Authors: Huws Ursula , Spencer Neil H. , Syrdal Dag S.
Published: July 2018

This article questions whether the dominant policy discourse, in which a normative model of standard employment is counterposed to ‘non‐standard’ or ‘atypical’ employment, enables us to capture the diversity of fluid labour markets in which work is dynamically reshaped in an interaction between different kinds of employment status and work organisation. Drawing on surveys in the UK, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands that investigate work managed via online platforms (‘crowdwork’) and associated practices, it demonstrates that crowdwork represents part of a continuum. Not only do most crowd workers combine work for online platforms with other forms of work or income generation, but also many of the ICT‐related practices associated with crowdwork are widespread across the rest of the labour market where a growing number of workers are ‘logged’. Future research should not just focus on crowdworkers as a special case but on new patterns of work organisation in the regular workforce.
The neurobiology of interoception in health and disease
Authors: Quadt Lisa , Critchley Hugo D. , Garfinkel Sarah N.
Published: July 2018

Interoception is the sensing of internal bodily sensations. Interoception is an umbrella term that encompasses (1) the afferent (body‐to‐brain) signaling through distinct neural and humoral (including immune and endocrine) channels; (2) the neural encoding, representation, and integration of this information concerning internal bodily state; (3) the influence of such information on other perceptions, cognitions, and behaviors; (4) and the psychological expression of these representations as consciously accessible physical sensations and feelings. Interoceptive mechanisms ensure physiological health through the cerebral coordination of homeostatic reflexes and allostatic responses that include motivational behaviors and associated affective and emotional feelings. Furthermore, the conscious, unitary sense of self in time and space may be grounded in the primacy and lifelong continuity of interoception. Body‐to‐brain interactions influence physical and mental well‐being. Consequently, we show that systematic investigation of how individual differences, and within‐individual changes, in interoceptive processing can contribute to the mechanistic understanding of physical and psychological disorders. We present a neurobiological overview of interoception and describe how interoceptive impairments at different levels relate to specific physical and mental health conditions, including sickness behaviors and fatigue, depression, eating disorders, autism, and anxiety. We frame these findings in an interoceptive predictive processing framework and highlight potential new avenues for treatments.
Preclinical models for the study of Barrett's carcinogenesis
Authors: Read Matthew D. , Krishnadath Kausilia K. , Clemons Nicholas J. , Phillips Wayne A.
Published: July 2018

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is clinically significant, as it is the only known precursor lesion for esophageal adenocarcinoma. To develop improved therapies for the treatment of BE, a greater understanding of the disease process at the molecular genetic level is needed. However, achieving a greater understanding will require improved preclinical models so that the disease process can be more closely studied and novel therapies can be tested. Our concise review highlights progress in the development of preclinical models for the study of BE and identifies the most suitable model in which to test novel therapies.
Clinical algorithm to manage anemia in epidermolysis bullosa
Authors: Simpson Blair , Tarango Cristina , Lucky Anne W.
Published: July 2018

Epidermolysis bullosa is a group of rare genetic disorders with multiple organ system involvement. In one severe form, recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, chronic anemia is common. This report outlines the multifactorial nature of anemia in recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa and presents a practical clinical algorithm based on expert consensus for the diagnosis and treatment of anemia in recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa.
Mereological Nominalism
Authors: Effingham Nikk
Published: July 2018

Mereological nominalism is the thesis that properties are identical to fusions of their instances. Long ignored, this paper argues that it's a plausible ontology of properties. Whilst not everyone will accept it, it's going to appeal to many philosophers and (at the least) should no longer be relegated to the annals of the history of metaphysics.1
Impact of native plant‐parasitic nematode communities on the establishment ofMeloidogyne chitwoodi
Authors: Garcia N. , Grenier E. , Sarniguet C. , Buisson A. , Ollivier F. , Folcher L.
Published: July 2018

Among plant‐parasitic nematodes (PPNs), the speciesMeloidogyne chitwoodiconstitutes an important agricultural issue and is listed as a quarantine species in theEU. This study investigated whetherPPNcommunities can affect the establishment and expansion ofM. chitwoodiduring a simulated introduction. An original experimental design was developed on potato in the glasshouse involving fourPPNcommunities derived from a single natural one that was initially grown on different host plants.Meloidogyne chitwoodiwas inoculated at two different densities (50 or 1000 second‐stage juveniles (J2) per pot). After 4 months,M. chitwoodiwas more abundant in the community showing a low overall abundance ofPPNs, decreased in the otherPPNcommunities and failed to establish in five pots out of 80. Results showed that establishment – even starting from a very low inoculum – can occur in all communities even if indigenousPPNs in the community affect the expansion through interspecific competition. The reverse interaction was also observed asPPNtaxa were generally less abundant in the 1000M. chitwoodiJ2 inoculation treatments. The proportion ofM. chitwoodimales produced was higher in the community showing low overallPPNabundance, suggesting a strong sensitivity ofM. chitwoodito intraspecific competition. The presented results suggest that a low abundance of indigenousPPNs presents a higher risk of expansion ofM. chitwoodieven if the introduced inoculum is low.
Effects of intracameral injection of epinephrine and 2% lidocaine on pupil diameter, intraocular pressure, and cardiovascular parameters in healthy cats
Authors: Amorim Tássia Moara , Dower Nathalie Moro Bassil , Stocco Matias Bassinello , Pizoni Laurem Hellem , Ribeiro Alexandre Pinto
Published: July 2018

Objectives

To investigate the effects of the intracameral injection of epinephrine and two doses of 2% lidocaine on pupil diameter (PD), intraocular pressure (IOP), heart rate (HR), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) in healthy cats.

Methods

Five treatment groups were formed (10 cats/each). Animals received 0.2 mL of epinephrine, 0.2 or 0.3 mL of 2% lidocaine, or 0.2 mL of BSS. Cats were anesthetized, and all solutions were injected intracamerally. PD, IOP, HR, and MAP were assessed at baseline, following anterior chamber paracentesis (T0), and at every 5 minutes, until anesthesia was terminated (T60). PD and IOP continued to be assessed for 2 additional hours during recovery from anesthesia. In another group, cats were not anesthetized and one of the eyes was treated with one drop of 0.5% tropicamide to check for maximal pupil diameter.

Results

Faster onset and longer duration of sufficient mydriasis (>10 mm) were observed in epinephrine treatment group, when comparing with cats treated with both doses of lidocaine. Eyes treated with epinephrine achieved the largest maximum pupil diameter (mm) when comparing with eyes treated with 0.3 mL of lidocaine (11.01 ± 0.16), tropicamide (10.66 ± 0.17), and 0.2 mL of lidocaine (10.23 ± 0.12) (P < .0001). In all groups, IOP decreased significantly at T0, but tended to return to baseline at T60. HR and MAP did not change significantly during time and among treatments.

Conclusions

The intracameral injection of 0.2 mL of 1:100 000 epinephrine and 0.3 mL of 2% lidocaine can be used as an alternative to tropicamide in healthy cats. Both treatments produced satisfactory and long‐lasting mydriasis without adverse effects on IOP, HR, and MAP.
A single-photon switch and transistor enabled by a solid-state quantum memory
Authors: Sun Shuo , Kim Hyochul , Luo Zhouchen , Solomon Glenn S. , Waks Edo
Published: July 2018

A single-photon gate

A long-standing goal in optics is to produce a solid-state alloptical transistor, in which the transmission of light can be controlled by a single photon that acts as a gate or switch. Sun
et al.
used a solid-state system comprising a quantum dot embedded in a photonic crystal cavity to show that transmission through the cavity can be controlled with a single photon. The single photon is used to manipulate the occupation of electronic energy levels within the quantum dot, which in turn changes its optical properties. With the gate open, about 28 photons can get through the cavity on average, thus demonstrating single-photon switching and the gain for an optical transistor.

Science
, this issue p.
57
Experimental observation of high thermal conductivity in boron arsenide
Authors: Kang Joon Sang , Li Man , Wu Huan , Nguyen Huuduy , Hu Yongjie
Published: July 2018

Moving the heat aside with BAs

Thermal management becomes increasingly important as we decrease device size and increase computing power. Engineering materials with high thermal conductivity, such as boron arsenide (BAs), is hard because it is essential to avoid defects and impurities during synthesis, which would stop heat flow. Three different research groups have synthesized BAs with a thermal conductivity around 1000 watts per meter-kelvin: Kang
et al.
, Li
et al.
, and Tian
et al.
succeeded in synthesizing high-purity BAs with conductivities half that of diamond but more than double that of conventional metals (see the Perspective by Dames). The advance validates the search for high-thermal-conductivity materials and provides a new material that may be more easily integrated into semiconducting devices.

Science
, this issue p.
575
, p.
579
, p.
582
; see also p.
549
Reducing catheter-associated urinary tract infections in hospitals: study protocol for a multi-site randomised controlled study
Authors: Mitchell Brett G , Fasugba Oyebola , Gardner Anne , Koerner Jane , Collignon Peter , Cheng Allen C , Graves Nicholas , Morey Peter , Gregory Victoria
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Despite advances in infection prevention and control, catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTIs) are common and remain problematic. A number of measures can be taken to reduce the risk of CAUTI in hospitals. Appropriate urinary catheter insertion procedures are one such method. Reducing bacterial colonisation around the meatal or urethral area has the potential to reduce CAUTI risk. However, evidence about the best antiseptic solutions for meatal cleaning is mixed, resulting in conflicting recommendations in guidelines internationally. This paper presents the protocol for a study to evaluate the effectiveness (objective 1) and cost-effectiveness (objective 2) of using chlorhexidine in meatal cleaning prior to catheter insertion, in reducing catheter-associated asymptomatic bacteriuria and CAUTI.

Methods and analysis

A stepped wedge randomised controlled trial will be undertaken in three large Australian hospitals over a 32-week period. The intervention in this study is the use of chlorhexidine (0.1%) solution for meatal cleaning prior to catheter insertion. During the first 8 weeks of the study, no hospital will receive the intervention. After 8 weeks, one hospital will cross over to the intervention with the other two participating hospitals crossing over to the intervention at 8-week intervals respectively based on randomisation. All sites complete the trial at the same time in 2018. The primary outcomes for objective 1 (effectiveness) are the number of cases of CAUTI and catheter-associated asymptomatic bacteriuria per 100 catheter days will be analysed separately using Poisson regression. The primary outcome for objective 2 (cost-effectiveness) is the changes in costs relative to health benefits (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio) from adoption of the intervention.

Dissemination

Results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed journals and presentations at relevant conferences.A dissemination plan it being developed. Results will be published in the peer review literature, presented at relevant conferences and communicated via professional networks.

Ethics

Ethics approval has been obtained.

Trial registration number

12617000373370, approved 13/03/2017. Protocol version 1.1.
Conceptual hydrogeological model of the Yonge Street Aquifer, south-central Ontario: a glaciofluvial channel–fan setting
Authors: Gerber Richard E. , Sharpe David R. , Russell Hazen A.J. , Holysh Steve , Khazaei Esmaeil
Published: July 2018

The Yonge Street Aquifer (YSA) in the Greater Toronto Area of south-central Ontario is a prolific municipal supply aquifer. It has been considered to be channelized sand and gravel linked to a bedrock valley. Despite considerable work, the fundamental conceptual model for the YSA is not well developed and documented. Based on high-quality data, a revised conceptual model of the aquifer is presented. Seismic profiles define the geometry of the regional stratigraphy with four distinct units: bedrock, Lower sediments, Newmarket Till, and Oak Ridges Moraine (ORM) sediment. Seismic data reveal two generations of roughly north–south channels: older sub-Newmarket Till channels within Lower sediments (termed Thorncliffe channel) and ORM-related channels (termed ORM channel) that incise both Newmarket Till and Lower sediments. The YSA is interpreted to occur within a Thorncliffe channel, with possible vertical connection to younger ORM channels and lateral connection to inter-channel Lower sediments. Thorncliffe channel deposits consist of fining-upward transitions from coarse gravel, to sand, to rhythmically bedded mud interpreted to be deposited within a channel – esker – subaqueous fan complex. Upper Thorncliffe channel mud facies and overlying Newmarket Till provide a capping aquitard. The YSA conceptual model benefits from a strong understanding of facies changes in the Thorncliffe Formation. The deposits with highest permeability occur within up to 80 m thick gravel and sand sequences at the base of the Thorncliffe channel, with transmissivity ranging from 1500 to 4500 m2/day. Groundwater level response to municipal pumping confirms connection along the channel with muted hydraulic response laterally. Thorncliffe channels are interpreted to be up to 20 km long and approximately 2 km wide.