bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skin surface lipid differences in sensitive skin caused by psychological stress and distinguished by support vector machine
Authors: Jiang Biao , Cui Le , Zi Yusha , Jia Yan , He Congfen
Published: October 2018

Background

Sensitive skin refers to skin that tends to be highly responsive to stimuli such as physical, chemical, and psychological. Psychological factors play an important role in the pathology of sensitive skin.

Objective

This study investigated lipid difference between sensitive skin caused by psychological stress and normal skin, followed by construction of a support vector machine (SVM).

Methods

A noninvasive method was used to collect lipid samples from the skin surface. Ultra‐performance liquid chromatography quadrupole time of flight mass spectrometry (UPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS) technique and partial least squares‐discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) was used to screen for differential lipids. A correlation analysis was performed on differential lipids, and a support vector model was established based on the differential lipids.

Results

Twelve differential lipids were obtained, and the most differentiating species were triacylglycerols (TGs), followed by monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), saturated fatty acids (SFAs), diacylglycerols (DGs), and 6‐hydroxysphingosine levels. Triglyceride, SFA, and MUFA species showed a high correlation, and the support vector machine (SVM) differentiation model based on differential lipids had a 100% accuracy rate.

Conclusion

Psychological stress may cause damage to the permeability and antimicrobial barriers of the skin, thereby resulting in sensitive skin. Differentiation models based on SVMs have good prospects for distinguishing sensitive skin caused by psychological stress.
Medium‐chain glycerides affect gut morphology, immune‐ and goblet cells in post‐weaning piglets: In vitro fatty acid screening withEscherichia coliand in vivo consolidation with LPS challenge
Authors: De Keyser Kirsten , Dierick Noël , Kanto Uthai , Hongsapak Tassanan , Buyens Goedele , Kuterna Leni , Vanderbeke Erik
Published: October 2018

The influence of medium‐chain glycerides on performance and gastrointestinal well‐being in weaning piglets was assessed. First, caproic (C6), caprylic (C8) and capric (C10) acid activity againstEscherichia coliwas screened in vitro. Pig flora of the whole small intestine was used as inoculum. Seven in vitro incubations were done in duplicate at pH = 3 and 5: C10 (15 mM), C8 (12 mM), C6 (15, 12, 10 mM), a non‐incubated‐negative control and incubated negative control. Culture suspensions were plated onE. coli‐selective agar. Controls showed bacterial growth. C6 and C8 showed no growth at both pH‐values, where C10 showed growth at pH = 5. Secondly, an in vivo study was done with 80 weaned piglets over 42 days, housed in pens of eight animals (five pens/treatment), fed a basal diet containing broken rice/soya bean meal/fish meal and supplemented with C6 and C8 in medium‐chain glyceride form (MCT6/8, 0.175%) or antibiotic growth promoter (AGP, 0.020%) (Kasetsart University, Thailand) serving as control. Feed intake, daily gain and feed‐to‐gain ratio did not differ between MCT6/8 and AGP. Per replicate, two random selected piglets were challenged intravenously withE. coli‐lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or saline solution (S) at Days 21 and 28. All challenged animals were sacrificed; blood and digestive tract samples (jejunum/ileum) were collected at Day 35. LPS challenge consistently reduced villus height and crypt depth for MCT6/8 and AGP. However, LPS‐challenged piglets supplemented with MCT6/8 restored villus height, where AGP did not. MCT6/8 piglets had higher serum IgA, more jejunal IgA‐positive plasma cells and goblet cells than AGP. At the ileal level, results were similar, though less pronounced. The present study offers new insight in the benefits of MCT6/8 over AGP in the post‐weaning period. There is in vitro anti‐microbial action of C6 and C8 onE. coli. In vivo, MCT6/8 also has protective effects in the small intestine that may result in growth promotion.
Fibrosis‐matched outcomes between chronic hepatitis B patients with drug‐induced virological response and inactive carriers
Authors: Kim Hye Soo , Baatarkhuu Oidov , Lee Hye Won , Park Jun Yong , Kim Do Young , Ahn Sang Hoon , Song Kijun , Han Kwang‐Hyub , Kim Beom Kyung , Kim Seung Up
Published: October 2018

Background & Aims

We compared the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development between patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) who achieved virological response (VR; HBV‐DNA < 2000 IU/mL) with nucleos(t)ide analogues (NUCs) treatment (NUC‐VR group) and patients with inactive CHB phase (ICHBP group).

Methods

To adjust for imbalances between NUC‐VR and ICHBP groups, propensity score matching (PSM) models with 1:1 ratios were performed.

Results

This study included 2032 patients (n = 1291 in NUC‐VR group and n = 741 in ICHBP group). Before PSM, NUC‐VR group was at higher risk of HCC development than ICHBP group at 7 years (9.4% in NUC‐VR group vs 3.3% in ICHBP group; P < 0.001). However, after PSM, the cumulative HCC development rates at 7 years were similar in NUC‐VR and ICHBP groups using the three PSM models [2.0% vs 4.3%, PSM model‐1 (612 pairs); 3.7% vs 4.4%, PSM model‐2 (618 pairs); and 2.4% vs 4.3%, PSM model‐3 (610 pairs)] (all P > 0.05).

Conclusions

After adjusting heavier hepatic fibrosis burden in NUC‐VR group, overall clinical outcomes between 2 groups had become comparable. Therefore, if appropriate, NUCs to prevent viral replication and hepatic inflammation are required for achieving better prognosis.
Experiences of newly diagnosed cancer patients in confronting the finitudes of life: a qualitative systematic review protocol
Authors: Stanic Jelena , Perrenoud Béatrice , Rochat Etienne , Ballabeni Pierluigi , Jaques Cécile , Schaer-Chaudhry Anne-Claude , Zumstein-Shaha Maya
Published: October 2018

Review question:

What is the experience of newly diagnosed patients with cancer when facing the finitude of life and undergoing initial anti-cancer treatment?
Electronic textile electrocardiogram monitoring in cardiac patients: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Teferra Meseret N. , Kourbelis Constance , Newman Peter , Ramos Joyce S. , Hobbs David , Clark Robyn A. , Reynolds Karen J.
Published: October 2018

Review question/objective:

This scoping review aims to explore and scope the literature and research on the use of e-textile electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring in cardiac patients and provide a unique contribution to the available evidence. The objectives of this scoping review are:

The questions of this review are:
Prevention of venous thromboembolism in postoperative abdominal patients: a best practice implementation project
Authors: Zhao WenWen , McArthur Alexa , Yu ZhengHong , Hu Yan , Luo Jing
Published: October 2018

Objectives:

This project's aim was to ensure that venous thromboembolism assessment was performed accurately, and that adequate prophylaxis was followed-up, resulting in a decrease in the incidence of venous thromboembolism postoperatively and enhancing recovery after surgery.

Introduction:

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. Evidence suggests that the majority of hospital patients are at risk for VTE, but the prophylaxis recommended for their risk factors are not adequately utilized. Venous thromboembolism prevention is primarily based on an adequate risk stratification.

Methods:

A baseline audit on VTE prevention utilizing the Joanna Briggs Institute Practical Application of Clinical Evidence System program was undertaken and involved 21 nurses and 30 patients. An intervention including VTE education, clinical practice and prophylaxis was conducted, following which a post-implementation re-audit was undertaken.

Results:

The baseline audit results showed that four audit criteria results were found to under 30%, which indicated poor compliance with the current evidence. After implementing the strategies, including education, VTE video, etc., there was a huge improvement, with most of the audit criteria achieving 100% compliance.

Conclusions:

Overall the project achieved a significant improvement in evidence-based practice in the prevention of VTE, implemented in two wards. Sustaining best practice should be planned for the future.
Effectiveness of non-pharmacological and non-surgical interventions on the impact of rheumatoid arthritis: an umbrella review protocol
Authors: Santos Eduardo , Duarte Cátia , Marques Andréa , Cardoso Daniela , Apóstolo João , da Silva José A. P. , Barbieri-Figueiredo Maria
Published: October 2018

Review question:

The questions of this review are:
A New Look at the Fractional Initial Value Problem: The Aberration Phenomenon
Authors: Zhao Yanting , Wei Yiheng , Chen Yuquan , Wang Yong
Published: October 2018

A typical phenomenon of the fractional order system is presented to describe the initial value problem from a brand-new perspective in this paper. Several simulation examples are given to introduce the named aberration phenomenon, which reflects the complexity and the importance of the initial value problem. Then, generalizations on the infinite dimensional property and the long memory property are proposed to reveal the nature of the phenomenon. As a result, the relationship between the pseudo state-space model and the infinite dimensional exact state-space model is demonstrated. It shows the inborn defects of the initial values of the fractional order system. Afterward, the pre-initial process and the initialization function are studied. Finally, specific methods to estimate exact state-space models and fit initialization functions are proposed.
Nonintrusive Global Sensitivity Analysis for Linear Systems With Process Noise
Authors: Nandi Souransu , Singh Tarunraj
Published: October 2018

The focus of this paper is on the global sensitivity analysis (GSA) of linear systems with time-invariant model parameter uncertainties and driven by stochastic inputs. The Sobol' indices of the evolving mean and variance estimates of states are used to assess the impact of the time-invariant uncertain model parameters and the statistics of the stochastic input on the uncertainty of the output. Numerical results on two benchmark problems help illustrate that it is conceivable that parameters, which are not so significant in contributing to the uncertainty of the mean, can be extremely significant in contributing to the uncertainty of the variances. The paper uses a polynomial chaos (PC) approach to synthesize a surrogate probabilistic model of the stochastic system after using Lagrange interpolation polynomials (LIPs) as PC bases. The Sobol' indices are then directly evaluated from the PC coefficients. Although this concept is not new, a novel interpretation of stochastic collocation-based PC and intrusive PC is presented where they are shown to represent identical probabilistic models when the system under consideration is linear. This result now permits treating linear models as black boxes to develop intrusive PC surrogates.
Characterizing Binder–Powder Interaction in Binder Jetting Additive Manufacturing Via Sessile Drop Goniometry
Authors: Bai Yun , Wall Candace , Pham Hannah , Esker Alan , Williams Christopher B.
Published: October 2018

Understanding the binder–powder interaction and primitive formation is critical to advancing the binder jetting Additive Manufacturing process and improving the accuracy, precision, and mechanical properties of the printed parts. In this work, the authors propose an experimental approach based on sessile drop goniometry on a powder substrate to characterize the binder wetting powder process. As a binder drop penetrates into a prepared powder substrate, the dynamic contact angle formed in powder pores is calculated based on the measured binder penetration time, and the binder penetration depth is measured from the binder-powder granule retrieved from the powder substrate. Coupled with models of capillary flow, the technique provides a fundamental understanding of the binder–powder interaction that determines the material compatibility and printing parameters in binder jetting. Enabled by this gained understanding, it was determined that suspending nanoparticles in a binder could increase the capillary-driven penetration depth, which was then reduced by the further increase of the nanoparticle solid loading and resultant binder viscosity.
Constructing Process Models of Engine Blade Surfaces for Their Adaptive Machining: An Optimal Approach
Authors: Wan Neng , Liu Peng , Chen Zezhong C. , Chang Zhiyong
Published: October 2018

In a new blade manufacturing process, manufacturers precisely forge blade billets with the blade suction and the pressure surfaces within tolerance. After that, only two blade edge billets should be machined to the leading- and the trailing-edges within tolerance. If these edge design surfaces are used to generate tool paths for machining the edge billets, the machined edges are not continuous with the suction and the pressure surfaces. To address this problem, an optimal approach to constructing process models of edge surfaces is proposed for adaptive blade machining. Specifically, the modified edge surfaces are optimized within the design tolerance and are continuous with the billet suction and pressure surfaces. These surfaces are used to generate tool paths for machining the edge billets. This approach addresses the current technical challenge in the new blade manufacturing process and can substantially promote this process in blade mass production.
The benefits of grouping as a main driver of social evolution in a halictine bee
Authors: Ohkubo Yusaku , Yamamoto Tatsuhiro , Ogusu Natsuki , Watanabe Saori , Murakami Yuuka , Yagi Norihiro , Hasegawa Eisuke
Published: October 2018

Benefits of grouping, not the Hamilton’s relatedness asymmetry benefit, mainly drive the evolution of eusociality in a bee.
Impact of parallel fiber to Purkinje cell long-term depression is unmasked in absence of inhibitory input
Authors: Boele Henk-Jan , Peter Saša , Ten Brinke Michiel M. , Verdonschot Lucas , IJpelaar Anna C. H. , Rizopoulos Dimitris , Gao Zhenyu , Koekkoek Sebastiaan K. E. , De Zeeuw Chris I.
Published: October 2018

Simultaneous impairment of Purkinje cell inhibitory input and parallel fiber LTD severely affects cerebellar learning.
Artelle
et al
. (2018) miss the science underlying North American wildlife management
Authors: Mawdsley Jonathan R. , Organ John F. , Decker Daniel J. , Forstchen Ann B. , Regan Ronald J. , Riley Shawn J. , Boyce Mark S. , McDonald John E. , Dwyer Chris , Mahoney Shane P.
Published: October 2018

Artelle
et al
. (2018) miss the science underlying North American wildlife management.
Genomic and functional evidence reveals molecular insights into the origin of echolocation in whales
Authors: Liu Zhen , Qi Fei-Yan , Xu Dong-Ming , Zhou Xin , Shi Peng
Published: October 2018

Molecular evolutionary and experimental analyses reject the hypothesis of high-frequency hearing in the archaeocetes.
Evidence for a large exomoon orbiting Kepler-1625b
Authors: Teachey Alex , Kipping David M.
Published: October 2018

Hubble Space Telescope observations show a timing offset and an exomoon-like transit associated with a Jupiter-sized planet.
Working constructively toward an improved North American approach to wildlife management
Authors: Artelle Kyle A. , Reynolds John D. , Treves Adrian , Walsh Jessica C. , Paquet Paul C. , Darimont Chris T.
Published: October 2018

Canadian and U.S. wildlife management needs an improved scientific basis and clearer definition of “science-based” expectations.
Classic wolf-moose study to be restarted on Isle Royale
Authors: Mlot Christine
Published: October 2018

Wolf airlift will reboot world's longest running predator-prey study, ended by climate change, inbreeding.
Cool paint job fights solar warmth
Authors: Service Robert F.
Published: October 2018

New material could reduce cost of cooling buildings by reflecting light and shedding heat.
How dormant cancer persists and reawakens
Authors: Aguirre-Ghiso Julio A.
Published: October 2018

Insights reveal possible avenues to prevent metastasis
Above and below the Maya forest
Authors: Ford Anabel , Horn Sherman
Published: October 2018

Advanced remote sensing technology raises questions about settlement and land use
Crisis in Brazil
Authors: Barbuy Beatriz
Published: October 2018

Earlier this month, Brazil's National Museum—the oldest, largest, and arguably the most important historical and scientific museum in Latin America—was consumed by fire, stoked by a neglected and degraded infrastructure. It has been a tragic reminder to Brazil and to the rest of the world of how important it is for societies to support the institutions and endeavors that preserve and promote science and culture. This devastating event should serve as a harsh wake-up call for Brazil to bolster, rather than neglect, its scientific enterprise. The general elections next month are an opportunity for Brazil to prioritize science.
An optical nanoreporter of endolysosomal lipid accumulation reveals enduring effects of diet on hepatic macrophages in vivo
Authors: Galassi Thomas V. , Jena Prakrit V. , Shah Janki , Ao Geyou , Molitor Elizabeth , Bram Yaron , Frankel Angela , Park Jiwoon , Jessurun Jose , Ory Daniel S. , Haimovitz-Friedman Adriana , Roxbury Daniel , Mittal Jeetain , Zheng Ming , Schwartz Robert E. , Heller Daniel A.
Published: October 2018

A nanoreporter noninvasively detects endolysosomal lipids, revealing that short-term changes in diet have enduring effects on hepatic macrophages.
p95HER2–T cell bispecific antibody for breast cancer treatment
Authors: Rius Ruiz Irene , Vicario Rocio , Morancho Beatriz , Morales Cristina Bernadó , Arenas Enrique J. , Herter Sylvia , Freimoser-Grundschober Anne , Somandin Jitka , Sam Johannes , Ast Oliver , Barriocanal Águeda Martinez , Luque Antonio , Escorihuela Marta , Varela Ismael , Cuartas Isabel , Nuciforo Paolo , Fasani Roberta , Peg Vicente , Rubio Isabel , Cortés Javier , Serra Violeta , Escriva-de-Romani Santiago , Sperinde Jeff , Chenna Ahmed , Huang Weidong , Winslow John , Albanell Joan , Seoane Joan , Scaltriti Maurizio , Baselga Jose , Tabernero Josep , Umana Pablo , Bacac Marina , Saura Cristina , Klein Christian , Arribas Joaquín
Published: October 2018

T cell bispecific antibodies against an isoform of HER2 effectively target many HER2-expressing tumors but not normal tissues.
Anti-α4β7 therapy targets lymphoid aggregates in the gastrointestinal tract of HIV-1–infected individuals
Authors: Uzzan Mathieu , Tokuyama Minami , Rosenstein Adam K. , Tomescu Costin , SahBandar Ivo N. , Ko Huaibin M. , Leyre Louise , Chokola Anupa , Kaplan-Lewis Emma , Rodriguez Gabriela , Seki Akihiro , Corley Michael J. , Aberg Judith , La Porte Annalena , Park Eun-young , Ueno Hideki , Oikonomou Ioannis , Doron Itai , Iliev Iliyan D. , Chen Benjamin K. , Lui Jennifer , Schacker Timothy W. , Furtado Glaucia C. , Lira Sergio A. , Colombel Jean-Frederic , Horowitz Amir , Lim Jean K. , Chomont Nicolas , Rahman Adeeb H. , Montaner Luis J. , Ndhlovu Lishomwa C. , Mehandru Saurabh
Published: October 2018

Anti-α4β7 integrin therapy results in attrition of lymphoid aggregates within the gastrointestinal tract of HIV-1–infected individuals with IBD.
Caution: Cartilage under reconstruction
Authors: Conway Claire
Published: October 2018

A bioactive 3D-printed scaffold combined with microfracture surgery promotes cartilage tissue regeneration.
Astrocyte dysfunction and compulsive behavior
Authors: Liston Conor
Published: October 2018

Molecular, cellular, and circuit physiology studies identify a potential new therapeutic target for compulsive behavior disorders, involving dysfunctional neuron-astrocyte interactions within striatal microcircuits.
Cross Talk between MarR-Like Transcription Factors Coordinates the Regulation of Motility in Uropathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Luterbach Courtney L. , Mobley Harry L. T.
Published: October 2018

The MarR-like protein PapX represses the transcription of the flagellar master regulator genes
flhDC
in uropathogenic
Escherichia coli
(UPEC), the primary cause of uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs). PapX is encoded by the
pap
operon, which also encodes the adherence factors termed P fimbriae.
Does Size Matter? Comparison of Extraction Yields for Different-Sized DNA Fragments by Seven Different Routine and Four New Circulating Cell-Free Extraction Methods
Authors: Cook Linda , Starr Kimberly , Boonyaratanakornkit Jerry , Hayden Randall , Sam Soya S. , Caliendo Angela M.
Published: October 2018

An element essential for PCR detection of microbial agents in many sample types is the extraction step, designed to purify nucleic acids. Despite the importance of this step, yields have not been extensively compared across methods to determine whether the method used contributes to quantitative differences and the lack of commutability seen with existing clinical methods.
Mapping the Nonstructural Protein Interaction Network of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus
Authors: Song Jiangwei , Liu Yuanyuan , Gao Peng , Hu Yunhao , Chai Yue , Zhou Shaochuan , Kong Can , Zhou Lei , Ge Xinna , Guo Xin , Han Jun , Yang Hanchun
Published: October 2018

Synthesis of PRRSV RNAs within host cells depends on the efficient and correct assembly of RTC that takes places on modified intracellular membranes. As an important step toward dissecting this poorly understood event, we investigated the interaction network among PRRSV nsps. Our studies established a comprehensive interaction map for PRRSV nsps and revealed important players within the network. The results also highlight the likely existence of a regulated recruitment of the PRRSV core enzymes nsp9 and nsp10 to viral membrane nsps during PRRSV RTC assembly.
Draft Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium shimoidei Strain P7336
Authors: Saad Jamal , Levasseur Anthony , Drancourt Michel
Published: October 2018

Mycobacterium shimoidei
, a slow-growing, nontuberculous mycobacterium initially isolated from a Japanese man, is a rare opportunistic lung pathogen. The 4,842,631-bp draft genome of
M. shimoidei
strain P7336 exhibits a 65.7% G+C content, 4,643 protein-coding genes, and 57 predicted RNA genes, including 49 tRNAs, 7 rRNA operons, and 1 transfer-messenger RNA.
Draft Genome Sequence of Plant Growth-Promoting Bacillus altitudinis Strain PAE4
Authors: Ibrahim Nahed Abdel Ghaffar Abdel Aziz , Omar Mohamed Nabil Abdel Mageed , El Heba Ghada A. Abu , Moënne-Loccoz Yvan , Prigent-Combaret Claire , Muller Daniel
Published: October 2018

We report here the draft genome of
Bacillus altitudinis
strain PAE4, a thermophilic plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium isolated from the coastal ridge of the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt. Besides heat shock protein genes, several genes encoding phytobeneficial properties were identified.
Draft Genome Sequence of Burkholderia reimsis BE51, a Plant-Associated Bacterium Isolated from Agricultural Rhizosphere
Authors: Esmaeel Qassim , Issa Alaa , Sanchez Lisa , Clément Christophe , Jacquard Cédric , Barka Essaid Ait
Published: October 2018

Burkholderia reimsis
BE51, isolated from maize rhizosphere, has a promising biocontrol activity against a set of phytopathogens. Here, we report its draft genome sequence with the aim of providing insight into the potentially produced secondary metabolites and genes related to plant growth-promoting and biocontrol properties.
Draft Genome Sequences of Three Novel Staphylococcus arlettae Strains Isolated from a Disused Biological Safety Cabinet
Authors: Lavecchia Anna , Chiara Matteo , Manzari Caterina , Trotta Massimo , Marzano Marinella , Horner David , Pesole Graziano , Placido Antonio
Published: October 2018

The genome sequences of three new strains of
Staphylococcus arlettae
named Bari1, Bari2, and Bari3 are presented. The strains exhibited tolerance to hexavalent chromium ions.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Nitrogen-Fixing Endophyte Azoarcus communis SWub3
Authors: Zorraquino Violeta , Toubiana David , Yan Dawei , Blumwald Eduardo
Published: October 2018

Here we report a draft genome sequence of
Azoarcus communis
SWub3, a nitrogen-fixing bacterium isolated from root tissues of Kallar grass in Pakistan.
TRAIL (CD253) Sensitizes Human Airway Epithelial Cells to Toxin-Induced Cell Death
Authors: Rong Yinghui , Westfall Jennifer , Ehrbar Dylan , LaRocca Timothy , Mantis Nicholas J.
Published: October 2018

Ricin toxin is a biothreat agent that is particularly damaging to lung tissue following inhalation. A hallmark of ricin exposure is widespread inflammation and concomitant destruction of the airway epithelium. In this study, we investigated the possible interaction between ricin and known proinflammatory cytokines associated with lung tissue. Using an established human airway epithelial cell line, we demonstrate that epithelial cell killing by ricin is significantly enhanced in the presence of the proinflammatory cytokine known as TRAIL (CD253). Moreover, epithelial cells that are simultaneously exposed to ricin and TRAIL produced large amounts of secondary proinflammatory signals, including IL-6, which in the context of the lung would be expected to exacerbate toxin-induced tissue damage. Our results suggest that therapies designed to neutralize proinflammatory cytokines such as TRAIL and IL-6 may limit the bystander damage associated with ricin exposure.
Bifidobacterial Dominance of the Gut in Early Life and Acquisition of Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Taft Diana H. , Liu Jinxin , Maldonado-Gomez Maria X. , Akre Samir , Huda M. Nazmul , Ahmad S. M. , Stephensen Charles B. , Mills David A.
Published: October 2018

Infants are vulnerable to an array of infectious diseases, and as the gut microbiome may serve as a reservoir of AMR for pathogens, reducing the levels of AMR in infants is important to infant health. This study demonstrates that high levels of
Bifidobacterium
are associated with reduced levels of AMR in early life and suggests that probiotic interventions to increase infant
Bifidobacterium
levels have the potential to reduce AMR in infants. However, this effect is not sustained at year 2 of age in Bangladeshi infants, underscoring the need for more detailed studies of the biogeography and timing of infant AMR acquisition.
Data for decision making: using a dashboard to strengthen routine immunisation in Nigeria
Authors: Etamesor Sulaiman , Ottih Chibuzo , Salihu Ismail Ndalami , Okpani Arnold Ikedichi
Published: October 2018

Availability of reliable data has for a long time been a challenge for health programmes in Nigeria. Routine immunisation (RI) data have always been characterised by conflicting coverage figures for the same vaccine across different routine data reporting platforms.

Following the adoption of District Health Information System version 2 (DHIS2) as a national electronic data management platform, the DHIS2 RI Dashboard Project was initiated to address the absence of some RI-specific indicators on DHIS2. The project was also intended to improve visibility and monitoring of RI indicators as well as strengthen the broader national health management information system by promoting the use of routine data for decision making at all governance levels. This paper documents the process, challenges and lessons learnt in implementing the project in Nigeria.

A multistakeholder technical working group developed an implementation framework with clear preimplementation; implementation and postimplementation activities. Beginning with a pilot in Kano state in 2014, the project has been scaled up countrywide.

Nearly 34 000 health workers at all administrative levels were trained on RI data tools and DHIS2 use. The project contributed to the improvement in completeness of reports on DHIS2 from 53 % in first quarter 2014 to 81 % in second quarter 2017.

The project faced challenges relating to primary healthcare governance structures at the subnational level, infrastructure and human resource capacity. Our experience highlights the need for early and sustained advocacy to stakeholders in a decentralised health system to promote ownership and sustainability of a centrally coordinated systems strengthening initiative.
Limited implementation of the framework convention on tobacco control’s tobacco tax provision: global comparison
Authors: Hiilamo Heikki , Glantz Stanton
Published: October 2018

Objective

To quantify changes in tobacco tax rates and cigarette affordability after countries ratified the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) using with the WHO MPOWER standards.

Methods

We used logistic regression to assess the association of FCTC ratification with adoption of at least 50% and 75% (high) of retail price tobacco tax rates for the most sold brands in countries, accounting for years since ratification and other covariates. We also compared cigarette affordability in 2014 with 1999.

Results

By 2014, 44% of high-income countries had taxes above 75% of retail value compared with 18% in 1998/1999. In 15 years, 69 countries increased the tobacco tax rate, 33 decreased it and one had the same tax rate. FCTC ratification was not associated with implementing high tobacco taxes. More fragile countries in terms of security, political, economic and social development were less likely to have at least 50% and 75% tobacco tax rates in 2014 compared with 1999. The higher the cigarette prices in 1999 the less likely the countries were to have at least 75% tobacco tax rates in 2014. However, cigarettes were less affordable in 2014 than in 1999 in countries that had ratified FCTC earlier.

Conclusions

Despite widespread FCTC ratification, implementing higher tobacco taxes remains incomplete. Guidelines for FCTC Article 6 implementation should assign definite targets for tobacco taxes and for implementation of a tax escalator that gradually increases taxes to match rising income levels. Fragile countries are less likely to have high tobacco taxes and less affordable cigarettes. The tobacco control community should intensify efforts to help fragile countries improve performance in FCTC implementation both through strengthening their administrative and technical capacity and through supporting basic functions of government.
Risk of behaviour suggestive of opioid abuse: a protocol for a systematic review of validated assessment tools
Authors: Galindo Sheila Raposo , Silva Tatiana de Paula Santana da , Marinho Manoel Henrique da Nóbrega , Ribeiro Carlos Eduardo de Souza Leão , Lima Murilo Duarte da Costa , Vasconcelos Selene Cordeiro
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Opioid use patterns of individuals with non-cancer pain are influenced by the behavioural dynamics of the individual in managing and properly following the prescription. The use of assessment tools for measuring the risk of behaviour suggestive of opioid abuse is important for health professionals who provide care to individuals with non-cancer pain. The aim of the proposed review is to analyse the psychometric properties of tools for measuring the risk of behaviour suggestive of opioid abuse in adults with non-cancer pain.

Methods and analysis

The review process will be based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols. The Consensus-Based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments will be used to analyse the assessment tools. Two independent reviewers will perform the literature search and analysis procedures. Searches will be performed on PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane, Scopus, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature databases, and the ‘snowball’ strategy will be employed. The inclusion criteria will be (1) validation studies, (2) assessment tools designed exclusively for measuring the risk of behaviour suggestive of opioid abuse and (3) assessment tools designed for evaluation of adults with chronic non-cancer pain. The titles and abstracts of the studies retrieved from the databases will be analysed for the preselection of articles, which will be submitted to a full-text analysis to define the final sample. Divergence of opinion between two reviewers will be resolved by consulting a third reviewer.

Ethics and dissemination

The review will offer an overview of assessment tools available for measuring the risk of behaviour suggestive of opioid abuse, which is relevant to reducing the risk of deaths due to abusive consumption and for clinical management of adults with chronic non-cancer pain.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018081577.
Reduced prevalence of small-for-gestational-age and preterm birth for women of low socioeconomic position: a population-based cohort study comparing antenatal midwifery and physician models of care
Authors: McRae Daphne N , Janssen Patricia A , Vedam Saraswathi , Mayhew Maureen , Mpofu Deborah , Teucher Ulrich , Muhajarine Nazeem
Published: October 2018

Objective

Our aim was to investigate if antenatal midwifery care was associated with lower odds of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) birth, preterm birth (PTB) or low birth weight (LBW) compared with general practitioner (GP) or obstetrician (OB) models of care for women of low socioeconomic position.

Setting

This population-level, retrospective cohort study used province-wide maternity, medical billing and demographic data from British Columbia, Canada.

Participants

Our study included 57 872 pregnant women, with low socioeconomic position, who: were residents of British Columbia, Canada, carried a singleton fetus, had low to moderate medical/obstetric risk, delivered between 2005 and 2012 and received medical insurance premium assistance.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

We report rates, adjusted ORs (aOR), and 95% CIs for the primary outcome, SGA birth (<the 10th percentile), and secondary outcomes, PTB (<37 weeks’ completed gestation) and LBW (<2500 g).

Results

Our sample included 4705 midwifery patients, 45 114 GP patients and 8053 OB patients. Odds of SGA birth were reduced for patients receiving antenatal midwifery versus GP (aOR 0.71, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.82) or OB care (aOR 0.59, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.69). Odds of PTB were lower for antenatal midwifery versus GP (aOR 0.74, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.86) or OB patients (aOR 0.53, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.62). Odds of LBW were reduced for midwifery versus GP (aOR 0.66, 95% CI 0.53 to 0.82) or OB patients (aOR 0.43, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.54).

Conclusion

Antenatal midwifery care in British Columbia, Canada, was associated with lower odds of SGA birth, PTB and LBW, for women of low socioeconomic position, compared with physician models of care. Results support the development of policy to ensure antenatal midwifery care is available and accessible for women of low socioeconomic position. Future research is needed to determine the underlying mechanisms linking midwifery care to better birth outcomes for women of low socioeconomic position.
Effect of psychosocial work factors on the risk of certified absences from work for a diagnosed mental health problem: a protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies
Authors: Duchaine Caroline S , Gilbert-Ouimet Mahee , Aubé Karine , Vezina Michel , Ndjaboue Ruth , Trudel Xavier , Lesage Alain , Moore Lynne , Laurin Danielle , Brisson Chantal
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Mental health problems (MHPs) are frequent and disabling and are the first or second leading cause of certified sickness absences from work in industrialised countries. They are generally long lasting and generate a considerable human and socioeconomic burden. The deleterious effect of adverse psychosocial work factors on MHP has been documented. However, the evidence regarding the effect of these factors on absences from work for an MHP has not been synthesised since 2007. The proposed systematic review aims to synthesise the effect of adverse psychosocial work factors from three validated theoretical models (the demand–control–support, effort–reward–imbalance and organisational justice models) on the risk of certified absences from work for diagnosed MHP among workers.

Method and analysis

A systematic search strategy will be conducted in seven databases: Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycInfo, Sociological abstracts and IBSS. Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses recommendations, a multistep screening process by independent reviewers will lead to study selection. The search strategy was first run in 16 January 2017 and will be updated in October 2018. Only quantitative, prospective studies evaluating the effect of at least one psychosocial work factor from the validated theoretical models on certified absence from work for a diagnosed MHP will be considered for inclusion. Extracted data will be used for quantitative and qualitative evidence synthesis as well as to assess risk of bias and methodological quality. Meta-estimates will be provided for high-quality studies and by each psychosocial work factor, after considering homogeneity and number of studies.

Ethics and dissemination

As this study will be based only on published studies, ethics approval is not required. Given that psychosocial works factors are frequent and modifiable, the results of this systematic review may provide evidence to support prevention strategies that can help to reduce the human social and economic burden associated with medically certified absences from work for an MHP.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018091632.
Improving anticoagulation of patients with an implantable left ventricular assist device
Authors: Sage William , Gottiparthy Amulya , Lincoln Paul , Tsui Steven S L , Pettit Stephen J
Published: October 2018

Patients supported with implantable left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) have a significant risk of bleeding and thromboembolic complications. All patients require anticoagulation with warfarin, aiming for a target international normalised ratio (INR) of 2.5 and most patients also receive antiplatelet therapy. We found marked variation in the frequency of INR measurements and proportion of time outside the therapeutic INR range in our LVAD-supported patients. As part of a quality improvement initiative, home INR monitoring and a networked electronic database for recording INR results and treatment decisions were introduced. These changes were associated with increased frequency of INR measurement. We anticipate that changes introduced in this quality improvement project will reduce the likelihood of adverse events during long-term LVAD support.
Role of clinical psychology in UK hospices
Authors: Russell Charlotte , Fountain Averil
Published: October 2018

Objective

The National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) (2004) guidance recommends a tiered approach to psychological care within cancer care. This includes the provision of Clinical Psychologists to support other professionals to deliver high-quality psychological care at levels 1 and 2 and to provide direct input to patients experiencing high levels of distress at level 4. However, little is known about the role of Clinical Psychology within UK Hospices currently. A survey of Clinical Psychologists working in this area was undertaken to address this gap in knowledge.

Methods

We conducted an anonymous online survey of Clinical Psychologists working in Hospice organisations across the UK. Recruitment was completed via professional networking groups, social media and by contacting UK Hospice organisations. The survey included quantitative and qualitative items about professionals’ experience, how their input is organised, their roles and activities and their views on the valuable and challenging aspects of working in this setting.

Results

Eighteen Clinical Psychologists responded and there was considerable variance in how their roles were organised. The tasks undertaken by most respondents were direct work with and consultation for hospice patients, and teaching and training staff. However, the findings demonstrated that Clinical Psychologists can undertake a wide range of tasks and draw on a range of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy, in their hospice work.

Conclusion

Our results provide an overview of the role of Clinical Psychology in UK Hospices and demonstrate the contribution that Psychologists can make to this field.
Global longitudinal strain, myocardial storage and hypertrophy in Fabry disease
Authors: Vijapurapu Ravi , Nordin Sabrina , Baig Shanat , Liu Boyang , Rosmini Stefania , Augusto Joao , Tchan Michel , Hughes Derralynn A , Geberhiwot Tarekegn , Moon James C , Steeds Richard Paul , Kozor Rebecca
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Detecting early cardiac involvement in Fabry disease (FD) is important because therapy may alter disease progression. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) can detect T1 lowering, representing myocardial sphingolipid storage. In many diseases, early mechanical dysfunction may be detected by abnormal global longitudinal strain (GLS). We explored the relationship of early mechanical dysfunction and sphingolipid deposition in FD.

Methods

An observational study of 221 FD and 77 healthy volunteers (HVs) who underwent CMR (LV volumes, mass, native T1, GLS, late gadolinium enhancement), ECG and blood biomarkers, as part of the prospective multicentre Fabry400 study.

Results

All FD had normal LV ejection fraction (EF 73%±8%). Mean indexed LV mass (LVMi) was 89±39 g/m2 in FD and 55.6±10 g/m2 in HV. 102 (46%) FD participants had left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). There was a negative correlation between GLS and native T1 in FD patients (r=−0.515, p<0.001). In FD patients without LVH (early disease), as native T1 reduced there was impairment in GLS (r=−0.285, p<0.002). In the total FD cohort, ECG abnormalities were associated with a significant impairment in GLS compared with those without ECG abnormalities (abnormal: −16.7±3.5 vs normal: −20.2±2.4, p<0.001).

Conclusions

GLS in FD correlates with an increase in LVMi, storage and the presence of ECG abnormalities. In LVH-negative FD (early disease), impairment in GLS is associated with a reduction in native T1, suggesting that mechanical dysfunction occurs before evidence of sphingolipid deposition (low T1).

Trial registration number

NCT03199001; Results.
Neurocysticercosis: mimics and chameleons
Authors: Delgado-García Guillermo , Méndez-Zurita Víctor Alfonso , Bayliss Leo , Flores-Rivera José , Fleury Agnès
Published: October 2018

Neurocysticercosis is the most common parasitic neurological disease worldwide, yet in Europe, it remains relatively uncommon, with many practitioners rarely seeing a case. However, immigration and international travel mean that it is becoming increasingly recognised and diagnosed in developed countries. Being a treatable condition, it is essential to be familiar with the diagnosis and to appreciate its mimics and breadth of its possible clinical presentations.
Can compressive thoracic cord lesions cause a pure lower motor neurone syndrome?
Authors: Kok Chin Yong , Chandrashekar Hoskote , Turner Christopher , Manji Hadi , Rossor Alexander M
Published: October 2018

Compressive lesions of the spinal cord usually cause a syndrome of upper motor neurone weakness, spasticity and sensory loss below the level of the lesion. It has long been recognised that compressive cervical cord lesions may present as isolated lower motor neurone weakness of the upper limbs, a syndrome termed cervical spondylotic amyotrophy. We describe two patients presenting with isolated lower motor neurone weakness of the lower limbs in association with a compressive cord lesion at T11/12, a condition we have termed thoracic spondylotic amyotrophy.
Mind‐body therapies: an intervention to reduce work‐related stress in veterinary academia
Authors: Artemiou Elpida , Gilbert Gregory E , Callanan Anne , Marchi Silvia , Bergfelt Don R
Published: October 2018

Studies investigating perceived stress and mindfulness awareness support mind‐body therapy (MBT) effectiveness in reducing stress and anxiety and, thus, has potential to decrease work‐related stress. A pre/postexperimental design involved 30 faculty and staff working at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Saint Kitts and Nevis, who experienced a two‐day MBT intervention programme. An additional 16 faculty and staff not involved in MBT who went about their daily work schedules served as contemporary controls. Demographics, Perceived Stress Scale 10 (PSS‐10), Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), 16 Personality Factor (16PF) Openness to Change subscale and saliva cortisol concentrations were analysed. Control participants reported significantly perceived less stress (PSS‐10: M=13; sd=1.4) than intervention participants (M=20; sd=6.6) during pretest. However, at post‐test the intervention group reported a significant decrease in perceived stress (M=11; sd=6.0). MAAS pretest results indicated the intervention group displayed a lower average score (M=54; sd=15.3) than control participants (M=68; sd=2.0). Post‐MAAS intervention scores showed improvements in mindfulness (M=63; sd=15.3). Correlations between the 16PF Openness to Change subscale and MAAS were r=0.03 and r=−0.17 for the intervention and control groups, respectively. Mean concentrations of saliva cortisol indicated a larger and significant decline in cortisol for the intervention group both during day 1 (P=0.0001) and day 2 (P=0.0008). In conclusion, these preliminary results provide support that MBTs in veterinary academia can improve psychological and physiological aspects of personal wellbeing.
A novel separator modified by titanium dioxide nanotubes/carbon nanotubes composite for high performance lithium-sulfur batteries
Authors: Chen Ao , Liu Weifang , Yan Jun , Liu Kaiyu
Published: October 2018

The rechargeable lithium-sulfur batteries were investigated as the most promising energy storage system. Although the composites of carbonaceous materials and metal oxides as the hosts of sulfur have been applied to improve the performance, their structures usually collapsed due to huge volumetric expansion of sulfur. Therefore, interlayer reported as a novel cell configuration could efficiently restrict the shuttle effect of polysulfide. Here, we design a unique separator modified by a functional “polysulfide trapping net” which consists of intertwined TiO2 nanotubes and carbon nanotubes to improve the electrochemical performance of lithium sulfur batteries. Benefiting from the network structure, there are abundant ion pathways, meanwhile, TiO2 nanotubes provide strong chemical and physical adsorption, carbon nanotubes serve as a conductive network which accelerates the transport of electrons. With the modified separator, the electrode exhibits an initial capacity of 936[Formula: see text]mAh[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] at 1[Formula: see text]C rate and maintains a stable cycling performance over 200 cycles.
MODELING THE DYNAMICS OF INTERNATIONAL AGRICULTURAL COMMODITY PRICES: A COMPARISON OF GARCH AND STOCHASTIC VOLATILITY MODELS
Authors: YANG LU , HAMORI SHIGEYUKI
Published: October 2018

In this study, we employ generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedastic (GARCH) and stochastic volatility models to investigate the dynamics of wheat, corn, and soybean prices. We find that the stochastic volatility model provides the highest persistence of the volatility estimation in all cases. In addition, based on the monthly data, we find that the jump process and asymmetric effect do not exist in agricultural commodity prices. Finally, by estimating Value at risk (VaR) for these agricultural commodities, we find that the upsurge in agricultural prices in 2008 may have been caused by financialization.