bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of cross-sector apprenticeships in pharmacy: is it a sustainable quality education model for pharmacy assistants?
Authors: Jones Christian E L , McEwen-Smith Laura , Fidler Liz , Schafheutle Ellen I
Published: July 2018

Objectives

To establish whether undertaking cross-sector pharmacy apprenticeship training to become a pharmacy assistant equally split across the two main pharmacy sectors improves training experience and cross-sector understanding.

Methods

A mixed method approach was utilised to explore the experiences of 10 pharmacy apprentices, their employers and education provider. Questionnaires were used to explore apprentices’ experiences and views following each 6-month placement. Seven pharmacy employers and the education provider were invited to take part in telephone interviews. Questionnaires were analysed using simple frequencies; qualitative data were analysed thematically.

Key findings

Ten apprentices were recruited, and nine apprentices returned questionnaires from at least one placement. Three hospital-based employers, four community employers and one education provider were interviewed. All participants had found the pilot positive and the cross-sector training to have been a useful experience. Employers noted that the pilot provided the apprentice with valuable insight into the patient’s journey and the opportunity to share learning across sectors. Employers also commented that more information regarding the nature of the training would have been useful to help better structure the placement for the apprentice.

Conclusions

This paper explores the benefits and challenges of employing a pharmacy apprentice and utilising a novel cross-sector training model. Findings have potential relevance to the training of other pharmacy staff, including pharmacy technicians and pharmacists. They offer early insights into the potential value of pharmacy apprenticeships for training pharmacy assistants, particularly if these are set up across the two main sectors hospital and community pharmacy.
Human immunodeficiency virus‐infected young people in Australia: data from the Australian HIV Observational Database
Authors: Hughes Carly , Puhr Rainer , Ojaimi Samar , Petoumenos Kathy , Bartlett Adam W. , Templeton David J. , O'Connor Catherine C. , Gunathilake Manoji , Woolley Ian
Published: July 2018

Background

Individuals aged 13–24 years undergo vast physical, cognitive, social and psychological changes. Australian data regarding clinical outcomes of those diagnosed with HIV in this age are sparse.

Aim

We aimed to describe demographic factors, virologic and clinical outcomes of individuals aged 13–24 years diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Methods

Patients diagnosed with HIV after 1997 in the Australian HIV Observational Database were divided into young adults, diagnosed at age <25 years (n = 223), and older adults (n = 1957). Demographic and clinical factors were compared between groups.

Results

Young adults had a median age at diagnosis of 22 years (inter quartile range (IQR) 20–24) and median age at treatment initiation of 24 years (IQR 22–26). They were more likely to be female than the older cohort (21.1 vs 10.8%; P < 0.001). Men who have sex with men was the most common exposure category in both groups. CD4 count at diagnosis was significantly higher in younger than older adults (median 460 vs 400 cells/mm3, P = 0.006), whereas HIV viral load at diagnosis was lower (35 400 vs 61 659 copies/mL, P = 0.011). The rate of loss to follow up (LTFU) was higher in young adults (8.0 vs 4.3 per 100PY, P < 0.001). Young adults were more likely to have a treatment interruption compared to older adults (5.3 vs 4.0 per 100PY, P = 0.039). Rates of treatment switch, time to treatment change, and CD4 and viral load responses to treatment were similar between groups.

Conclusions

Young adults were diagnosed with HIV at higher CD4 counts and lower viral loads than their older counterparts. LTFU and treatment interruption were more common highlighting the need for extra efforts directed towards retention in care and education regarding the risks of treatment interruptions.
Substantial variation exists in spirometry interpretation practices for airflow obstruction in accredited lung function laboratories across Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Holt Nicolette R. , Thompson Bruce R. , Miller Belinda , Borg Brigitte M.
Published: July 2018

Background

Spirometry forms the foundation investigation for the diagnosis and monitoring of common pulmonary conditions. However, potential variation in spirometry interpretation for airflow obstruction may impact subsequent clinical management.

Aim

To audit spirometry interpretation practices for airflow obstruction in Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand accredited laboratories.

Methods

Thirty‐nine accredited complex lung function laboratories were invited to participate in an online survey. The survey enquired about demographics, definition of lower limit of normal range for spirometry parameters, spirometric parameters used for identifying airflow obstruction, spirometric definition of airflow obstruction, definition of significant bronchodilator response and chosen spirometry reference equations.

Results

Thirty‐six laboratories provided complete responses (response rate, 92%). To define the lower limit of normal, 26 of 36 used the 5th percentile, 7 of 36 used a fixed cut‐off and 3 used other. Twenty‐nine laboratories utilised forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) as the sole parameter to identify airflow obstruction, 3 of 36 used FEV1/FVC and FEF25–75%, and 4 used other. To define airflow obstruction, 25 of 36 laboratories used FEV1/FVC < 5th percentile, 9 of 36 used a fixed cut‐off (FEV1/FVC < 0.7, 6/36; FEV1/FVC < 0.8, 2/36; FEV1/FVC < 0.75, 1/36) and 2 of 36 used other. Twenty‐six laboratories defined a significant bronchodilator response as an increase of at least 200 mL and 12% in FEV1 and/or FVC, 9 of 36 used ≥200 mL and ≥ 12% increase in FEV1 only, and 1 used other criteria. Reference equations utilised for interpretation of spirometry data included: Quanjer 2012 Global Lung Initiative (16/36), the third National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (8/36), European Community of Coal and Steel (8/36) and other (4/36).

Conclusions

Significant heterogeneity in spirometry interpretation for airflow obstruction exists across Australian and New Zealand accredited lung function laboratories. Lack of standardisation may translate into clinically appreciable differences for the diagnosis and management of common respiratory conditions. Ongoing discussion regarding formal standardisation is required.
Exploring resident thriving in relation to the nursing home environment: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Björk Sabine , Lindkvist Marie , Lövheim Hugo , Bergland Ådel , Wimo Anders , Edvardsson David
Published: July 2018

Aim

To explore the extent to which environmental factors are associated with resident thriving.

Background

Thriving is a concept that denotes experiences of well‐being in relation to the living environment. Although there is a substantial body of research into quality of life in nursing homes, less is known about what contributes to thriving among residents. Recent research on resident thriving has focused mainly on resident characteristics and activities associated with thriving. Less attention has been given to explore associations with the physical and psychosocial environment of the nursing home. This study explores facility‐ and unit‐level factors associated with resident thriving.

Design

A cross‐sectional national survey.

Methods

Data on 4,205 residents, 3,509 staff, and environment of 147 nursing home facilities collected in 2013–2014 were analysed using descriptive statistics, multilevel simple, and multiple linear regression to explore resident thriving in relation to environmental factors.

Results

Multilevel analysis revealed that residents’ thriving varied significantly across nursing home units. Several environmental factors were associated with thriving in univariate analyses. However, a positive psychosocial climate of units, having access to newspapers, living in a special care unit, and living in an unlocked facility showed significant positive associations with resident thriving when controlling for resident characteristics. The psychosocial climate showed the strongest association of the environment variables with resident thriving.

Conclusions

Nursing home environments may have an impact on residents’ thriving. A positive psychosocial climate of units seems to have an important role in facilitating thriving in nursing home residents.
Psychometric properties of instruments measuring quality and satisfaction in mental health: A systematic review
Authors: Sanchez‐Balcells Sara , Callarisa Roca Marta , Rodriguez‐Zunino Nathalia , Puig‐Llobet Montserrat , Lluch‐Canut Maria‐Teresa , Roldan‐Merino Juan F.
Published: July 2018

Aim

To identify the methodological quality of each study and analyse the psychometric properties of instruments measuring quality and satisfaction with care from the perspective of mental health patients and professionals.

Background

In recent years, interest in rigorously assessing quality of care in mental health and nursing has increased. Health professionals and researchers should select the most adequate instrument based on knowledge of its measurement properties.

Review design

A psychometric review was conducted of the instruments from the perspectives of both patients and professionals according to the COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments panel (COSMIN).

Data sources

Articles published from January 2005 – September 2016 were identified in a search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, and SCOPUS. We included studies in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Review methods

Inclusion criteria were applied to all articles validated and reviewed by a second independent reviewer. The analysis included the use of the COSMIN checklist and the Terwee quality criteria.

Results

In the 34 studies selected, a total of 22 instruments which measure quality and satisfaction with care provided, according to patients and/or professionals, were identified. Most are instruments with sound, contemporary theoretical foundations. They vary to the extent to which they have been used in empirical studies and with respect to evaluation of their validity and reliability, although five instruments stand out as yielding good‐excellent values in quality criteria.

Conclusion

The present psychometric review found that five of the instruments met valid psychometric criteria. In light of the current economic situation, future reviews should include analysis of the usefulness of instruments based on cost‐effectiveness, acceptability, and educational impact.
Label‐free high‐speed wide‐field imaging of single microtubules using interference reflection microscopy
Authors: MAHAMDEH MOHAMMED , SIMMERT STEVE , LUCHNIAK ANNA , SCHÄFFER ERIK , HOWARD JONATHON
Published: July 2018

When studying microtubules in vitro, label free imaging of single microtubules is necessary when the quantity of purified tubulin is too low for efficient fluorescent labelling or there is concern that labelling will disrupt function. Commonly used techniques for observing unlabelled microtubules, such as video enhanced differential interference contrast, dark‐field and more recently laser‐based interferometric scattering microscopy, suffer from a number of drawbacks. The contrast of differential interference contrast images depends on the orientation of the microtubules, dark‐field is highly sensitive to impurities and optical misalignments. In addition, all of these techniques require costly optical components such as Nomarski prisms, dark‐field condensers, lasers and laser scanners. Here we show that single microtubules can be imaged at high speed and with high contrast using interference reflection microscopy without the aforementioned drawbacks. Interference reflection microscopy is simple to implement, requiring only the incorporation of a 50/50 mirror instead of a dichroic in a fluorescence microscope, and with appropriate microscope settings has a similar signal‐to‐noise ratio to differential interference contrast and fluorescence. We demonstrated the utility of interference reflection microscopy by high‐speed imaging and tracking of dynamic microtubules at 100 frames per second. In conclusion, the optical quality of interference reflection microscopy falls within the range of other microscope techniques, being inferior to some and superior to others, depending on the metric used and, with minimal microscope modification, can be used to study the dynamics of unlabelled microtubules.

Lay description

The cytoskeleton gives a cell its shape and plays a major role in its movement and division. It's also helps organise the content of cells and is the base for intracellular transport. Important components of the cytoskeleton are microtubules, which are hollow cylindrical beams (25 nm in diameter) that assemble from protein building blocks called tubulin. Deficiencies in microtubules are related to many diseases including cancer and Alzheimer. Given their important role, microtubules are heavily investigated in many laboratories. One way to study microtubules is to isolate them from cells and image them using light microscopy. Over the years a number of imaging techniques have been used. These techniques have a number of drawbacks which are addressed by ongoing efforts which this work is a part of. Here, we present a method based on light interference that produce high quality images of microtubules. The technique is cheap and easy to implement making it accessible to a wide base of researchers.
Analysis of prolactin receptor expression in the murine brain using a novel prolactin receptor reporter mouse
Authors: Kokay Ilona C. , Wyatt Amanda , Phillipps Hollian R. , Aoki Mari , Ectors Fabien , Boehm Ulrich , Grattan David R.
Published: July 2018

Prolactin influences a wide range of physiological functions via actions within the central nervous system, as well as in peripheral tissues. A significant limitation in studies investigating these functions is the difficulty in identifying prolactin receptor (Prlr) expression, particularly in the brain. We have developed a novel mouse line using homologous recombination within mouse embryonic stem cells to produce a mouse in which an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) followed by Cre recombinase cDNA is inserted immediately after exon 10 in the Prlr gene, thereby targeting the long isoform of the Prlr. By crossing this Prlr‐IRES‐Cre mouse with a ROSA26‐CAGS‐tauGFP (τGFP) reporter mouse line, and using immunohistochemistry to detect τGFP, we were able to generate a detailed map of the distribution of individual Prlr‐expressing neurones and fibres throughout the brain of adult mice without the need for amplification of the GFP signal. Because the τGFP is targeted to neurotubules, the labelling detected not only cell bodies, but also processes of prolactin‐sensitive neurones. In both males and females, Cre‐dependent τGFP expression was localised, with varying degrees of abundance, in a number of brain regions, including the lateral septal nucleus, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, preoptic and hypothalamic nuclei, medial habenula, posterodorsal medial amygdala, and brainstem regions such as the periaqueductal grey and parabrachial nucleus. The labelling was highly specific, occurring only in cells where we could also detect PrlrmRNA by in situ hybridisation. Apart from two brain areas, the anteroventral periventricular nucleus and the medial preoptic nucleus, the number and distribution of τGFP‐immunopositive cells was similar in males and females, suggesting that prolactin may have many equivalent functions in both sexes. These mice provide a valuable tool for investigating the neural circuits underlying the actions of prolactin.
Central apelin administration and restraint stress induce hypothalamic cholecystokinin release via the APJ receptor
Authors: Bülbül Mehmet , Sinen Osman , Abueid Leyla , Akkoyunlu Gökhan , Özsoy Özlem
Published: July 2018

Exposure to an acute stressor induces up‐regulation of apelin and cholecystokinin (CCK) in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN), which is the key brain centre integrating the stress‐induced alterations in neuroendocrine, autonomic and behavioural functions. We tested the hypothesis that the release of CCK from the PVN is increased by centrally administered or stress‐induced up‐regulated endogenous apelin via the APJ receptor. Additionally, the effect of hypothalamic CCK on autonomic outflow was investigated under basal and stressed conditions. In vivo brain microdialysis was performed in rats that received (i) intra‐PVN administration of apelin‐13 or (ii) acute restraint stress (ARS). For chemical stimulation of the neurones in the PVN, a high concentration of KCl was applied by reverse microdialysis. CCK‐8 levels in microdialysates were quantified by an enzyme immunoassay. The immunoreactivity of the APJ receptor and CCK was detected by immunofluorescence in hypothalamic sections. Heart rate variability was assessed in rats that received PVN stimulation or ARS following pre‐administration of vehicle or CCK1 receptor antagonist lorglumide. Both intra‐PVN exogenous apelin‐13 and ARS increased the CCK‐8 levels in dialysates significantly. The ARS‐induced elevations in CCK levels were reversed by intra‐PVN pre‐administration of the APJ receptor antagonist F13A. Within the PVN, robust APJ receptor expression was detected on the CCK‐producing mediocellular cells, in addition to the parvocellular neurones in the periventricular region. Dual immunoreactivity of APJ/CCK was observed in magnocellular cells to a lesser degree. Both exogenous apelin and ARS increased the CCK immunoreactivity markedly within the PVN, which was diminished significantly by F13A. Sympathetic tonus was increased markedly both by PVN stimulation and ARS, which was attenuated by lorglumide. These results revealed the interaction between apelin and CCK in the brain, suggesting that hypothalamic CCK may contribute to the apelin‐induced alterations in autonomic outflow under stressed conditions.
Perspectives in cosmetic dermatology: What is in front of the mirror?
Authors: Gherghina Andrei , Aristizabal Miguel , Bay Aguilera Shino , Skopit Stanley
Published: July 2018

Managing patient expectations can be a difficult task and is one that cosmetic dermatologists frequently encounter. Misinformation and unrealistic expectations can oftentimes exist regarding cosmetic procedures and their results. These misconceptions can result in patient dissatisfaction and frustration on the physician's behalf. This case report underscores the importance of utilizing what is arguably the most basic and ancient tool in the office, the mirror. There are many different facets to the patient encounter and a variety of devices at the physician's disposal. Proper use of this valuable tool can improve communication, elucidate patient concerns, and reflect the focus on the patient. These can ultimately lead to improved procedure outcome and patient satisfaction.
Effects of menstrual pain on the academic performance and participation in sports and social activities in Turkish university students with primary dysmenorrhea: A case control study
Authors: Orhan Ceren , Çelenay Şeyda Toprak , Demirtürk Funda , Özgül Serap , Üzelpasacı Esra , Akbayrak Türkan
Published: July 2018

Aim

The primary aim of this study was to investigate the pain characteristics, academic performance and participation in sports and social activities among students with primary dysmenorrhea (PD) who have different pain intensities and to compare dysmenorrhea‐related life impact with pain‐free students.

Methods

The present study was conducted on 471 university students with and without PD. Based on Visual Analog Scale score, participants were categorized into four groups: no‐pain (n = 60), mild pain (n = 83), moderate pain (n = 165) and severe pain (n = 163). Data on the pain characteristics, impact of dysmenorrhea on university absence, class concentration, participation in sports and social activities were obtained and analyzed with the Kruskal–Wallis, Mann–Whitney U and chi‐square tests.

Results

University absence, loss of class concentration and the impact on sports and social activities were higher in severe pain group than in no‐pain, mild and moderate pain groups (P < 0.001). There were statistically significant differences in the duration of pain, the pattern of pain and the day when maximum pain is perceived among mild, moderate and severe pain groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The results of the present study present that PD negatively influences academic performance and participation in sports and social activities. Furthermore, pain characteristics differed among the patients with mild, moderate and severe pain. There is a need for further studies that improve treatment options for PD in order to minimize the influence of pain on academic performance and social activities.
Effect of orthodontic force associated with cigarette smoke inhalation in healthy and diseased periodontium. A histometric and immunohistochemistry analysis in rats
Authors: Ferreira C. L. , Nunes C. M. M. , Bernardo D. V. , Pedroso J. F. , Longo M. , Santamaria M. , Santamaria M. P. , Jardini M. A. N.
Published: July 2018

Background

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the effect of orthodontic forces in healthy or diseased periodontium of rats submitted/not submitted to cigarette smoke inhalation.

Material and methods

Fifty‐six male Wistar rats were allocated into two groups of conditions: smoking and non‐smoking. Each group was divided into the following subgroups: control (C), orthodontic tooth movement (OTM), ligature‐induced periodontitis (P) and P+OTM (POTM), with n = 14 each. Periodontitis was induced in the lower first molar by cotton ligature, and a 4 mm closed stainless steel spring was used for orthodontic movement. Animals were exposed to the smoke of 10 cigarettes for 8 minutes, 3 times a day for 60 days before P induction and OTM. Evaluation parameters were macroscopic analysis of dental movement, bone loss and bone density. In addition, the receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappaB (RANK) immunostaining and RANK ligand/osteoprotegerin ratio in the furcation region were assessed.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between groups, ie, smoking and non‐smoking conditions (P = .338). Bone loss intragroup analysis between the P and POTM groups was not significant in smoking (P = 1) and non‐smoking (P = .5) conditions; both were different from OTM and C in each condition. Regarding bone density, POTM and P were significant to C (P < .05). The POTM group was significant to the P and C (P = .001) regarding dental movement. The RANK ligand/osteoprotegerin ratio in the non‐smoking condition was higher in P and POTM compared to C and OTM and to P and POTM in the smoking condition. RANK immunostaining was significant in the smoking condition for the P and POTM groups (P < .05).

Conclusion

Within the limitations of the present study, it was concluded that cigarette smoke inhalation had no influence on the evaluated groups, even with the presence of low levels of nicotine, carbon monoxide and tar. The POTM groups did not present greater bone loss compared to P groups, thus periodontal disease is essential for bone loss.
Increased levels of substance P in patients taking beta‐blockers are linked with a protective effect on oropharyngeal dysphagia
Authors: Miarons M. , Tomsen N. , Nascimento W. , Espín À. , López‐Faixó D. , Clavé P. , Rofes L.
Published: July 2018

Background

We have recently found a potential protective effect of beta‐blockers on oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD). The action mechanism by which beta‐blockers could wield this protective effect is unknown, but the neurotransmitter substance P (SP) could play a key role. The aim of this study was to analyze serum and saliva SP levels in patients taking beta‐blockers (TBB), and to explore its relationship with OD.

Methods

Adult (>50 year) patients TBB were randomly recruited from the primary care setting and 1:1 matched by age, sex, and Barthel Index (BI) with patients not taking beta‐blockers (NTBB). Serum and saliva samples were taken and analyzed for their SP levels using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Socio‐demographic and clinical variables were collected. Dysphagia was evaluated in all patients using the clinical volume‐viscosity swallow test (V‐VST).

Key Results

We studied 28 patients TBB (64.96 ± 7.31 years, 57.1% women, BI 99.6 ± 1.31, carvedilol‐equivalent dose 24.11 ± 18.12 mg) and 28 patients NTBB (65.61 ± 6.43 years, 57.1% women, BI 99.6 ± 1.31). SP serum levels were significantly higher in patients TBB (260.68 ± 144.27 vs 175.46 ± 108.36 pg/mL, P = .009) as were SP saliva levels (170.34 ± 146.48 vs 102.73 ± 52.28 pg/mL, P < .001) compared with patients NTBB. The prevalence of OD was 32.1% in patients TBB and 67.9% in patients NTBB (P = .015). Moreover, patients with OD had significantly lower SP saliva levels in comparison with patients without clinical signs of OD (98.39 ± 43.25 vs 174.69 ± 147.21 pg/mL) P < .001.

Conclusions & Inferences

We have found that serum and saliva SP levels are greater in patients TBB. This increase in SP levels could be the action mechanism by which beta‐blockers protect patients from OD.
Aphid infestation leads to plant part‐specific changes in phloem sap chemistry, which may indicate niche construction
Authors: Jakobs Ruth , Schweiger Rabea , Müller Caroline
Published: July 2018

Phloem sap quality can differ between and within plants, and affect the performance of aphids. In turn, aphid infestation may change the chemical composition and nutritional value of phloem sap. However, the effects of different aphid species on the overall phloem sap composition of distinct parts within plant individuals in relation to aphid performance remain unclear.

To test the specificity of plant responses to aphids, we used two chemotypes of Tanacetum vulgare plants and placed the monophagous aphids Macrosiphoniella tanacetaria and Uroleucon tanaceti on different plant parts (stems close to the inflorescence, young and old leaves). Aphid population growth was determined and sugars, organic acids, amino acids and metabolic fingerprints of phloem exudates were analysed.

Macrosiphoniella tanacetaria performed best on stems, whereas U. tanaceti performed best on old leaves, indicating differences in niche conformance. Aphid infestation led to distinct changes in the phloem exudate composition of distinct metabolite classes, differing particularly between plant parts but less between chemotypes.

In summary, plant responses to aphids are highly specific for the chemotype, plant part, metabolite class and aphid species. These changes may indicate that aphids construct their own niche, optimizing the food quality on the plant parts they prefer.
Endoscopic treatment in biliary strictures after pediatric liver transplantation
Authors: Czubkowski Piotr , Pertkiewicz Jan , Markiewicz‐Kijewska Małgorzata , Kaliciński Piotr , Rurarz Małgorzata , Jankowska Irena , Pawłowska Joanna
Published: July 2018

Background and aim

The aim of the study was to assess efficacy and safety of endoscopic treatment in BS after pediatric LTx.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed data of patients with DDA who developed BS and underwent ERCP.

Results

Of 189 transplanted patients with DDA, strictures developed in 30 (16%). In this subgroup, the median age at LTx was 14.7 (1.5‐17.6) and follow‐up period was 3.9 (1.3‐11.3). ABS were in 76% and NABS in combination with ABS in 24% of patients. Overall, 95 ERCP sessions (3.0 per patient) were performed with successful outcome in 22 (73%) cases. Duration of treatment was 9.1 (1.8‐24.1) months. Five patients underwent surgical revision and three patients retransplantation (10%). Risk factors of endoscopy failure were HCV or HBV infection, prolonged CIT and treatment before 2007. The most common complications after ERCP were cholangitis (8.2%) and pancreatitis (4.2%). There were worse overall prognosis and higher risk of post–ERCP complications in NABS.

Conclusions

ERCP is safe and effective in the majority of patients with post‐transplant duct‐to‐duct BS, and it is currently recommended as the first‐line treatment.
Sperm kinematic characterization of alpaca (Vicugna pacos L.) during the reproductive season
Authors: Meza Aydee , Caldeira Carina , Valverde Anthony , Ordóñez César , Ampuero Enrique , Cucho Hernán , Soler Carles
Published: July 2018

Contents

Semen analysis is a key factor when determining the fertility ability in males. South American camelids, and in particular the alpaca, have been studied very little when compared with other farm animals. The aim of this work was to perform the kinematic characterization of alpaca spermatozoa collected directly from the deferent duct by using CASA‐Mot (Computer Assisted Semen Analysis for Motility) technology. Samples were obtained every three days throughout the reproductive season during two periods and with a break of seven days in the middle. During both periods, the quality of the sample's motility and kinematics increased over the first two days and then subsequently decreased. This pattern was similar in all animals. It was concluded that the introduction of resting times can be useful to improve sperm quality for artificial insemination purposes in natural conditions.
Computed tomographic arthrography is a useful adjunct to survey computed tomography and arthroscopic evaluation of the canine shoulder joint
Authors: Eivers Caroline R. , Corzo‐Menéndez Nuria , Austwick Sarah H. , Thomson David G. , Gibson Sarah M. , Handel Ian , Schwarz Tobias
Published: July 2018

The aim of this retrospective, methods comparison study was to assess the diagnostic utility of computed tomographic arthrography in the assessment of various intraarticular shoulder pathologies in dogs in comparison with survey computed tomography (CT), using arthroscopic examination as the reference standard. Computed tomography, computed tomographic arthrography, and arthroscopic findings of 46 scapulohumeral joints of dogs with forelimb lameness were reviewed retrospectively. Predefined sites were assessed for the presence or absence of disease. If a lesion was present, a prespecified pathology was designated. Computed tomographic arthrography was found to be a safe technique which provided a superior diagnostic efficacy relative to survey CT for the assessment of the biceps tendon and biceps tendon sheath (sensitivity 71%, specificity 75%, positive likelihood ratio 2.9, negative likelihood ratio 0.38) and humeral head cartilage (sensitivity 65%, specificity 97%, positive likelihood ratio 19, negative likelihood ratio 0.37). Computed tomography and computed tomographic arthrography provided additional diagnostic information to arthroscopy in regard to osteophytosis, subchondral defects, and joint mice. Computed tomographic arthrography alone was of limited diagnostic value for assessment of the medial and lateral glenohumeral ligaments (sensitivity 13% and 0%, specificity 1% and 78%, positive likelihood ratios unmeasurable and 0, negative likelihood ratios 0.88 and 1.29, respectively) and the subscapularis tendon (sensitivity 14%, specificity 98%, positive likelihood ratio 5.7, negative likelihood ratio 0.88). Computed tomographic arthrography is therefore a useful adjunct to survey CT and arthroscopic evaluation of the canine shoulder joint, however, is not a replacement for these techniques.
A Hardware and Software Modular Robot for the Agricultural Domain
Authors: Grimstad Lars , Johan PÅl
Published: July 2018

In order to take full potential of robots in the agriculture, there is a need for robots that can operate across different domains and infrastructure. Agriculture is extremely diverse and no two farms are the same, so robots need to be able to adapt to a wide variety of farm layouts. There are several reasons for this. Firstly, there is great variation in the way the robot needs to loco mote, for example in muddy fields, concrete floors, grassland, or rails, just to mention a few. Secondly, spacing between the plants vary, so the size of the robots also needs to be adjustable depending on the farm layout as some farms can only fit smaller robots while other farms need larger robots for more efficient operation. In this paper, we therefore present a completely modular robot that can be configured to operate in all these environments. The robot can be assembled to different modes of locomotion and the size can be changed depending on the farm specifications. In addition, the robot software is developed so that it automatically takes the shape and the size of the robot into account in the kinematics and control.
BMI control of a third arm for multitasking
Authors: Penaloza Christian I. , Nishio Shuichi
Published: July 2018

A brain-machine interface allowed participants to do a task with a robotic arm while performing a different task with their own arms.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Starmerella bacillaris (syn., Candida zemplinina) Type Strain CBS 9494
Authors: Rosa Alberto Luis , Miot-Sertier Cécile , Laizet Yec’han , Salin Franck , Sipiczki Matthias , Bely Marina , Masneuf-Pomarede Isabelle , Albertin Warren
Published: July 2018

Starmerella bacillaris
is an ascomycetous yeast ubiquitously present in grapes and fermenting grape musts. In this report, we present the draft genome sequence of the
S. bacillaris
type strain CBS 9494, isolated from sweet botrytized wines, which will contribute to the study of this genetically heterogeneous wine yeast species.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Non-O1/O139 Vibrio cholerae Strain Isolated from a Patient Presenting with Dysuria
Authors: Leong Lex E. X. , Gordon David L. , Rogers Geraint B.
Published: July 2018

Vibrio cholerae
is the causative agent of cholera and, more rarely, nondiarrheal opportunistic infections. We report here a draft genome sequence of a non-O1/O139
V. cholerae
strain isolated from the urine of a patient presenting with dysuria at a South Australian health care facility.
Gut microbiome analysis as a tool towards targeted non-invasive biomarkers for early hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ren Zhigang , Li Ang , Jiang Jianwen , Zhou Lin , Yu Zujiang , Lu Haifeng , Xie Haiyang , Chen Xiaolong , Shao Li , Zhang Ruiqing , Xu Shaoyan , Zhang Hua , Cui Guangying , Chen Xinhua , Sun Ranran , Wen Hao , Lerut Jan P , Kan Quancheng , Li Lanjuan , Zheng Shusen
Published: July 2018

Objective

To characterise gut microbiome in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and evaluate the potential of microbiome as non-invasive biomarkers for HCC.

Design

We collected 486 faecal samples from East China, Central China and Northwest China prospectively and finally 419 samples completed Miseq sequencing. We characterised gut microbiome, identified microbial markers and constructed HCC classifier in 75 early HCC, 40 cirrhosis and 75 healthy controls. We validated the results in 56 controls, 30 early HCC and 45 advanced HCC. We further verified diagnosis potential in 18 HCC from Xinjiang and 80 HCC from Zhengzhou.

Results

Faecal microbial diversity was increased from cirrhosis to early HCC with cirrhosis. Phylum Actinobacteria was increased in early HCC versus cirrhosis. Correspondingly, 13 genera including Gemmiger and Parabacteroides were enriched in early HCC versus cirrhosis. Butyrate-producing genera were decreased, while genera producing-lipopolysaccharide were increased in early HCC versus controls. The optimal 30 microbial markers were identified through a fivefold cross-validation on a random forest model and achieved an area under the curve of 80.64% between 75 early HCC and 105 non-HCC samples. Notably, gut microbial markers validated strong diagnosis potential for early HCC and even advanced HCC. Importantly, microbial markers successfully achieved a cross-region validation of HCC from Northwest China and Central China.

Conclusions

This study is the first to characterise gut microbiome in patients with HCC and to report the successful diagnosis model establishment and cross-region validation of microbial markers for HCC. Gut microbiota-targeted biomarkers represent potential non-invasive tools for early diagnosis of HCC.
Burden of respiratory abnormalities in microwave popcorn and flavouring manufacturing workers
Authors: Fechter-Leggett Ethan D , White Sandra K , Fedan Kathleen B , Cox-Ganser Jean M , Cummings Kristin J
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Diacetyl, a butter flavour compound used in food and flavouring production, is a respiratory toxin. We characterised the burden of respiratory abnormalities in workers at popcorn and flavouring manufacturing facilities that used diacetyl as evaluated through US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) health hazard evaluations.

Methods

We performed analyses describing the number and percentage of current and former workers from popcorn and flavouring manufacturing facilities where NIOSH administered a respiratory health questionnaire and spirometry testing who met case definitions of suspected flavouring-related lung disease. Case definitions were pathologist reported: lung biopsy pathology report stating supportive of/consistent with constrictive bronchiolitis or bronchiolitis obliterans; probable: obstructive/mixed spirometric pattern with forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) <60% predicted; possible: obstructive/mixed spirometric pattern with FEV1≥60% or any spirometric restriction; symptoms only: normal spirometry plus exertional dyspnoea or usual cough.

Results

During 2000–2012, NIOSH collected questionnaire and spirometry data on 1407 workers (87.0% current, 13.0% former) at nine facilities in eight states. After applying case definitions, 4 (0.3%) were classified as pathologist reported, 48 (3.4%) as probable, 234 (16.6%) as possible and 404 (28.7%) as symptoms only. The remaining 717 (51.0%) workers had normal spirometry without exertional dyspnoea or usual cough. Seven of 11 workers with biopsies did not meet the pathologist-reported case definition, although four met probable and three met possible.

Conclusions

This approach demonstrates the substantial burden of respiratory abnormalities in these workers. A similar approach could quantify the burden of respiratory abnormalities in other industries that use diacetyl.
Physical work demands and psychosocial working conditions as predictors of musculoskeletal pain: a cohort study comparing self-reported and job exposure matrix measurements
Authors: Madsen Ida E H , Gupta Nidhi , Budtz-Jørgensen Esben , Bonde Jens Peter , Framke Elisabeth , Flachs Esben Meulengracht , Petersen Sesilje Bondo , Svane-Petersen Annemette Coop , Holtermann Andreas , Rugulies Reiner
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Determining exposure to occupational factors by workers’ job titles is extensively used in epidemiological research. However, the correspondence of findings regarding associations to health between job exposure matrices (JEMs) and individual-level exposure data is largely unknown. We set out to examine the prospective associations of physical work demands and psychosocial working conditions with musculoskeletal pain, comparing JEMs with individual-level self-reported exposures.

Methods

We analysed data of 8132 participants from the Work Environment and Health in Denmark cohort study. Using random intercept multilevel modelling, we constructed age-specific and sex-specific JEMs estimating predicted exposures in job groups. We analysed associations between working conditions (individual and JEM level) at baseline and musculoskeletal pain at follow-up using multilevel modelling stratified by sex, adjusting for age, education and baseline pain.

Results

Any consistent associations present in the individual-level analysis were also found in the JEM-level analysis. Higher pain levels at follow-up was seen for employees with higher baseline physical work demands, women exposed to violence and men with lower decision authority, whether measured at the individual or JEM level. Higher JEM-level quantitative demands were associated with less pain, but no association was seen at the individual level.

Conclusions

We found predominately comparable prospective associations between working conditions and pain, whether using JEMs or individual level exposures, with the exception of quantitative demands. The results suggest that, with few notable exceptions, findings obtained using JEMs may be comparable with those obtained when using self-reported exposures.
On the age of the Ballantrae Complex, SW Scotland
Authors: Stone Philip , Rushton Adrian W. A.
Published: July 2018

The Ballantrae Complex, SW Scotland, is an ophiolitic assemblage of mostly Early and early Middle Ordovician age (Tremadoc–Arenig in terms of the British Ordovician Series). Its varied components were generated and assembled in the Iapetus Ocean, then obducted on to the Laurentian continental margin by the earliest Llanvirn. The timing of obduction is constrained by biostratigraphic and radiometric data. It was most probably a polyphase process initiated at about the beginning of the Arenig, at around 478 Ma. However, parts of the Complex are significantly younger, with some recent evidence taken to suggest an earliest Llanvirn age of about 464 Ma for the emplacement of some of the volcanic and pelagic sedimentary rocks. The oldest strata in the succession that now unconformably overlies the Ballantrae Complex were deposited at about 463 Ma. Hence there may have been as little as one million years available for the final stages of the Complex's tectonic assembly, obduction, uplift, erosion and downfaulting. Obduction of the Complex has been invoked as a factor in the initiation of the Grampian Orogeny and, whilst there is a broad correlation in timing, the detail from Ballantrae militates against a causal relationship.
From Nuclei to the Cosmos: Tracing Heavy-Element Production with the Oldest Stars
Authors: Frebel Anna
Published: July 2018

Understanding the origin of the elements has been a decades-long pursuit, with many open questions remaining. Old stars found in the Milky Way and its dwarf satellite galaxies can provide answers because they preserve clean element abundance patterns of the nucleosynthesis processes that operated some 13 billion years ago, enabling reconstruction of the chemical evolution of the elements. This review focuses on the astrophysical signatures of heavy neutron-capture elements made in the s-, i-, and r-processes found in old stars. A highlight is the recently discovered r-process galaxy Reticulum II, which was enriched by a neutron star merger. These results show that old stars in dwarf galaxies provide a novel means to constrain the astrophysical site of the r-process, ushering in much-needed progress on this major outstanding question. This nuclear astrophysics research complements the many experimental and theoretical nuclear physics efforts into heavy-element formation, and also aligns with results on the gravitational-wave signature of neutron star mergers.
Alterations at Arg76 of human connexin 46, a residue associated with cataract formation, cause loss of gap junction formation but preserve hemichannel function
Authors: Abrams Charles K. , Peinado Alejandro , Mahmoud Rola , Bocarsly Matan , Zhang Han , Chang Paul , Botello-Smith Wesley M. , Freidin Mona M. , Luo Yun
Published: July 2018

The connexins are members of a family of integral membrane proteins that form gap junction channels between apposed cells and/or hemichannels across the plasma membranes. The importance of the arginine at position 76 (Arg76) in the structure and/or function of connexin 46 (Cx46) is highlighted by its conservation across the entire connexin family and the occurrence of pathogenic mutations at this (or the corresponding homologous) residue in a number of human diseases. Two mutations at Arg76 in Cx46 are associated with cataracts in humans, highlighting the importance of this residue. We examined the expression levels and macroscopic and single-channel properties of human Cx46 and compared them with those for two pathogenic mutants, namely R76H and R76G. To gain further insight into the role of charge at this position, we generated two additional nonnaturally occurring mutants, R76K (charge conserving) and R76E (charge inverting). We found that, when expressed exogenously in Neuro2a cells, all four mutants formed membrane hemichannels, inducing membrane permeability at levels comparable to those recorded in cells expressing the wild-type Cx46. In contrast, the number of gap-junction plaques and the magnitude of junctional coupling were reduced by all four mutations. To gain further insight into the role of Arg76 in the function of Cx46, we performed homology modeling of Cx46 and in silico mutagenesis of Arg76 to Gly, His, or Glu. Our studies suggest that the loss of interprotomeric interactions has a significant effect on the extracellular domain conformation and dynamics, thus affecting the hemichannel docking required for formation of cell-cell channels.
An EEG Study of a Confusing State Induced by Information Insufficiency during Mathematical Problem-Solving and Reasoning
Authors: Liang Ye , Liu Xiaojian , Qiu Lemiao , Zhang Shuyou
Published: July 2018

Confusion is a complex cognitive state that is prevalent during learning and problem-solving. The aim of this study is to explore the brain activity reflected by electroencephalography (EEG) during a confusing state induced by two kinds of information insufficiencies during mathematical problem-solving, namely, an explicit situation that clearly lacked information and an implicit situation in which the missing information was hidden in the problem itself, and whether there is an EEG difference between these two situations. Two experimental tasks and three control tasks were created. Short time Fourier transformation (STFT) was used for time-frequency analysis; then the alpha task-related-power (TRP) changes and distributions, which are closely related to cognitive processing, were calculated, and repeated measures ANOVA were performed to find the significant difference between task conditions. The results showed that the alpha power decreased significantly in the regions related to calculation when the participants encountered both explicit and implicit information insufficiency tasks compared to the control tasks, suggesting that confusion can cause more brain activity in the cortical regions related to the tasks that induce confusion. In addition, the implicit information insufficiency task elicited more activity in the parietal and right temporal regions, whereas the explicit information insufficiency task elicited additional activity in the frontal lobe, which revealed that the frontal region is related to the processing of novel or unfamiliar information and the parietal-temporal regions are involved in sustained attention or reorientation during confusing states induced by information insufficiency. In conclusion, this study has preliminarily investigated the EEG characteristics of confusion states, suggests that EEG is a promising methodology to detect confusion, and provides a basis for future studies aiming to achieve automatic recognition of confusing states.