bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Echocardiographic advances in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: Three‐dimensional and strain imaging echocardiography
Authors: Inciardi Riccardo M. , Galderisi Maurizio , Nistri Stefano , Santoro Ciro , Cicoira Mariantonietta , Rossi Andrea
Published: March 2018

In the recent past, new ultrasound technologies, such as three‐dimensional echocardiography and strain imaging echocardiography, raised up in clinical practice leading to a better assessment of cardiac morphology and performance. These tools may assess regional cardiac mechanics, detecting clinical and subclinical myocardial dysfunction in different settings such as ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathies, and heart valve diseases. Interesting results derive from patients affected from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Particularly, the mentioned techniques are progressively redefining the role of echocardiography in diagnostic evaluation of HCM variants such as apical HCM, detection of the underlying conditions of increased wall thickness, assessment of subclinical myocardial impairment, and potentially refine risk stratification and prognosis. In this review, we describe the clinical uses of these methodologies and the perspective application in HCM patients.
Usefulness of The C‐Reactive Protein/Albumin Ratio for Predicting No‐Reflow in ST‐elevation myocardial infarction treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Karabağ Yavuz , Çağdaş Metin , Rencuzogullari Ibrahim , Karakoyun Süleyman , Artaç İnanç , İliş Doğan , Yesin Mahmut , Çağdaş Öznur Sadioğlu , Altıntaş Bernas , Burak Cengiz , Tanboğa Halil Ibrahim
Published: March 2018

Background

The ratio of serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) to albumin has been proven to be a more accurate indicator than albumin and CRP levels alone in determining the prognosis of patients with cancer and critical illness. The aim of this study was to determine whether the CRP/albumin ratio (CAR) can be linked to imperfect reperfusion that can worsen the prognosis of ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI).

Materials and methods

A total of 1217 consecutive STEMI patients who achieved epicardial vessel patency with pPCI were recruited to this study.

Results

The study population was divided into 2 groups: reflow (n = 874) and no‐reflow (NR) (n = 343) groups. The white blood cell count (WBC), neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and CAR (0.03 [0.01‐0.04] vs 0.06 [0.03‐0.12] (P < .001) were significantly higher in the NR group than in the reflow group, and these factors were found to be independent predictors of NR development. The best cut‐off value of CAR predicting NR was 0.59 with a sensitivity of 54.7% and specificity of 86.7. The predictive power of CAR surpassed that of CRP, albumin, WBC count and NLR in the receiver operator curve (ROC) curve comparison.

Conclusion

No‐reflow can be predicted by systemic inflammation markers including WBC count, NLR and CAR measured from the blood sample obtained on admission. CAR has a higher clinical value than CRP, albumin level, WBC count and NLR in NR prediction.
Energy efficiency in transition economies
Authors: Carvalho António
Published: March 2018

This article outlines and estimates a measure of underlying efficiency in electricity consumption for an unbalanced panel of 27 transition economies and 6 European OECD countries between 1994 and 2007. A Bayesian Generalized True Random Effects stochastic frontier model with persistent and transient inefficiency is considered by estimating an aggregate electricity demand function that leads to consumption efficiency scores, giving further insights than a simple analysis of energy intensity. There is evidence of convergence between the CIS countries and a block of Eastern European and OECD countries, although other country groups do not follow this tendency, such as the Balkans.
Dimethyl phthalate altered the microbial metabolic pathways in a Mollisol
Authors: Wang Z. G. , You Y. M. , Xu W. H. , Chen W. J. , Zeng J. , Zhao X. S. , Su Y. P. , Wu L. Y.
Published: March 2018

Dimethyl phthalate (DMP), a member of the phthalate esters (PAEs), is a common contaminant and frequently detected in soil. In this study, metagenomics revealed that DMP contamination in a Mollisol led to alterations in biological genomes and pathways identified using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases. The results of functional annotation with pathway information demonstrated that genes involved in metabolism and signal regulatory pathways were changed in soil contaminated with DMP. Genes involved in nitrogen metabolism, carbon metabolism (glycolysis, the citrate cycle and pentose phosphate pathway) and signal regulatory pathways (apoptosis pathway, adipocytokine signalling pathway and glutamatergic synapse signal pathways) were more abundant under DMP contamination in the Mollisol. Quantitative PCR (QPCR) assays also showed that copies of genes associated with DMP degradation, pcmA, pehA, phtAb, phtB and phtC, correlated positively with the concentration of DMP. The results also suggested that the acceleration of nitrogen and carbon metabolism in the Mollisol by DMP contamination arose from altering the signal regulatory pathways. This is one of the most damaging mechanisms for microorganisms; therefore, DMP contamination will adversely affect the ecosystem in the Mollisol.

Highlights

How can DMP contamination alter the metabolic pathways of microorganisms in a Mollisol?

Changes in microbial metabolism under DMP contamination were estimated by metagenomics.

DMP accelerated N and C metabolism by altering the signal pathways.

DMP could disrupt the ecological balance by altering metabolism in a Mollisol.
Determination of quantitative pore‐size distribution of soils with 1H NMR relaxometry
Authors: Meyer M. , Buchmann C. , Schaumann G. E.
Published: March 2018

The determination of pore‐size distribution (PSD) in soil by conventional methods can be time‐ and effort‐consuming. Therefore, several attempts have been made recently to assess and implement proton nuclear magnetic resonance relaxometry (1H NMR relaxometry) to determine PSDs quantitatively. The 1H NMR relaxometry promises not only to be more time‐ and effort‐saving but also offers a broader range for the estimation of pore size, better resolved results and non‐destructive measurements. To evaluate these possibilities, we tested the extent to which a single calibration curve for the estimation of surface relaxivity of soil, derived from seven soil samples, can be applied to unknown soils. For validation, the quantitative PSDs of seven additional soil samples were determined from the distributions of NMR relaxation times of water saturated samples using this calibration curve; they were compared with their classical water retention curves (WRCs). In general, the quantitative PSDs determined by this approach described the classical WRCs quite well. The best results were obtained for sandy, silty and loam soils. The largest differences were for soils with large clay (47%) and SOM contents (10 and 21%). Our results suggest that these differences derive from swelling processes.

Highlights

Can NMR relaxometry be used to quantify soil pore‐size distribution without individual calibration?

Soil pore size assessment by NMR is fast, detailed and independent of conventional methods

NMR method describes the pore‐size distribution of various soil types and soil compositions.

NMR method can assess quantitative effects of SOM and swelling of clay in soil.
Methadone—Not a magic bullet in melanoma therapy
Authors: Brüggen Marie‐Charlotte , Mangana Joanna , Irmisch Anja , French Lars E. , Levesque Mitchell P. , Cheng Phil F , Dummer Reinhard
Published: March 2018

Methadone (Met) mainly acts as a μ‐opioid receptor agonist. Recent evidence pointing towards the role of Met in sensitization of certain cancer cell lines to chemotherapeutic agents has promoted the hypothesis that Met may be a useful adjuvant to cancer chemotherapy. We wanted to address whether Met has, alone or in combination with a chemotherapeutic agent, an effect on melanoma cell viability in vitro. Only a small fraction (4.3%) of our 102 melanoma biobank cell lines with RNA‐sequencing data showed expression of the main receptor for Met (OPRM1). We assessed the viability of melanoma cell lines with high, medium or low/no OPRM1 expression (OPRM1high, OPRM1med, OPRM1neg) 72 hours after treatment with Met alone or combined with cisplatin (Cis). Our analyses show that Met alone did not affect cell viability. While Cis/Met treatment did not have an effect on viability of OPRM1med or OPRM1neg cell lines, it resulted in a slightly decreased cell viability of OPRM1high cells. Clinically, concurrent temozolomide/Met treatment did not have an effect in our single‐case report of a patient suffering from uveal melanoma. Taken together, our findings do not provide evidence for recommending Met as an adjuvant to chemotherapy in patients with melanoma.
Progress in designing and delivering effective fishing industry–science data collection in the UK
Authors: Mangi Stephen C , Kupschus Sven , Mackinson Steven , Rodmell Dale , Lee Alexandra , Bourke Elizabeth , Rossiter Tom , Masters Jim , Hetherington Stuart , Catchpole Thomas , Righton David
Published: March 2018

This study was undertaken to address the increasing need for a strategic approach to industry–science data collections in the face of reducing resources and growing need for evidence in fisheries management. The aim was to evaluate progress in the development of plans and procedures that can be employed to collect, record and use fishing industry knowledge and data in the evidence base for managing fisheries. This was achieved by reviewing industry‐led data initiatives already undertaken or ongoing within the United Kingdom to document how these projects have/are incorporating fishing industry data into the process of management decision‐making; canvassing stakeholder opinion on data gaps and whether these could be filled by data gathered by commercial fishing vessels; establishing what issues might prevent or stimulate commercial fishing vessels in collecting data when they have the opportunity; and describing guidance on a step‐by‐step process for gathering scientific information such that fishers are empowered to collect the right data, at the right times and in the right format for their fishery. Given recent advances in the collection, interpretation and application of fisheries‐dependent data, we compare progress made in the UK to other areas of the world. We conclude that there is considerable evidence of a paradigm shift from the conventional practice of scientists asking fishers to provide data for scientific analyses towards full engagement of key stakeholders in data collection.
Cardiovascular Reactivity During Marital Conflict in Laboratory and Naturalistic Settings: Differential Associations with Relationship and Individual Functioning Across Contexts
Authors: Baucom Brian R. W. , Baucom Katherine J. W. , Hogan Jasara N. , Crenshaw Alexander O. , Bourne Stacia V. , Crowell Sheila E. , Georgiou Panayiotis , Goodwin Matthew S.
Published: March 2018

Cardiovascular reactivity during spousal conflict is considered to be one of the main pathways for relationship distress to impact physical, mental, and relationship health. However, the magnitude of association between cardiovascular reactivity during laboratory marital conflict and relationship functioning is small and inconsistent given the scope of its importance in theoretical models of intimate relationships. This study tests the possibility that cardiovascular data collected in laboratory settings downwardly bias the magnitude of these associations when compared to measures obtained in naturalistic settings. Ambulatory cardiovascular reactivity data were collected from 20 couples during two relationship conflicts in a research laboratory, two planned relationship conflicts at couples’ homes, and two spontaneous relationship conflicts during couples’ daily lives. Associations between self‐report measures of relationship functioning, individual functioning, and cardiovascular reactivity across settings are tested using multilevel models. Cardiovascular reactivity was significantly larger during planned and spontaneous relationship conflicts in naturalistic settings than during planned relationship conflicts in the laboratory. Similarly, associations with relationship and individual functioning variables were statistically significantly larger for cardiovascular data collected in naturalistic settings than the same data collected in the laboratory. Our findings suggest that cardiovascular reactivity during spousal conflict in naturalistic settings is statistically significantly different from that elicited in laboratory settings both in magnitude and in the pattern of associations with a wide range of inter‐ and intrapersonal variables. These differences in findings across laboratory and naturalistic physiological responses highlight the value of testing physiological phenomena across interaction contexts in romantic relationships.
In Our Lives and Under Our Skin: An Investigation of Specific Psychobiological Mediators Linking Family Relationships and Health Using the Biobehavioral Family Model
Authors: Priest Jacob B. , Roberson Patricia N. E. , Woods Sarah B.
Published: March 2018

The objective of this study was to use the Biobehavioral Family Model (BBFM) to delineate which psychophysiological variables link romantic and family relationship satisfaction variables to health outcomes. Data from individuals who reported being partnered from the second wave of the National Survey of Midlife Development in the United States (MIDUS II), Project 4 (n = 812) were used to test a structural equation model which explored which psychophysiological variables potentially mediated associations between positive and negative family emotional climate variables and disease activity. This model found that current and past family variables had larger associations with the psychophysiological variables than romantic partner variables; depressive symptoms, anxiety, and inflammation partially mediated associations between family relationships and health; and, contrary to the hypotheses, romantic partner and family support were linked to worse health outcomes. However, the findings should be viewed with regard to the cross‐sectional design of the study. Overall, the findings support the use of the BBFM as a model that can guide clinical interventions.
Tracing the fate of steroids through a hypersaline microbial mat (Kiritimati, Kiribati/Central Pacific)
Authors: Shen Y. , Thiel V. , Duda J.‐P. , Reitner J.
Published: March 2018

Eukaryotic steranes are typically absent or occur in very low concentrations in Precambrian sedimentary rocks. However, it is as yet unclear whether this may reflect low source inputs or a preservational bias. For instance, it has been proposed that eukaryotic lipids were profoundly degraded in benthic microbial mats that were ubiquitous prior to the advent of vertical bioturbation in the Cambrian (“mat‐seal effect”). It is therefore important to test the microbial turnover and degradation of eukaryotic steroids in real‐world microbial mats. Here we assessed steroid inventories in different layers of a microbial mat from a hypersaline lake on Kiritimati (Central Pacific). Various eukaryote‐derived C27‐C30 steroids were detected in all mat layers. These compounds most likely entered the mat system as unsaturated sterols from the water column or the topmost mat, and were progressively altered during burial in the deeper, anoxic mat layers over c. 103 years. This is reflected by increasing proportions of saturated sterols and sterenes, as well as the presence of thiosteranes in certain horizons. Sterol alteration can partly be assigned to microbial transformation but is also due to chemical reactions promoted by the reducing environment in the deeper mat layers. Notably, however, compounds with a sterane skeleton were similarly abundant in all mat layers and their absolute concentrations did not show any systematic decrease. The observed decrease of steroid/hopanoid ratios with depth may thus rather indicate a progressive “dilution” by lipids derived from heterotrophic bacteria. Further, pyrolysis revealed that steroids, in contrast to hopanoids, were not sequestered into non‐extractable organic matter. This may lead to a preservational bias against steroids during later stages of burial. Taken together, steroid preservation in the microbial mat is not only controlled by heterotrophic degradation, but rather reflects a complex interplay of taphonomic processes.
What the ~1.4 Ga Xiamaling Formation can and cannot tell us about the mid‐Proterozoic ocean
Authors: Diamond C. W. , Planavsky N. J. , Wang C. , Lyons T. W.
Published: March 2018

Despite a surge of recent work, the evolution of mid‐Proterozoic oceanic–atmospheric redox remains heavily debated. Constraining the dynamics of Proterozoic redox evolution is essential to determine the role, if any, that anoxia played in protracting the development of eukaryotic diversity. We present a multiproxy suite of high‐resolution geochemical measurements from a drill core capturing the ~1.4 Ga Xiamaling Formation, North China Craton. Specifically, we analyzed major and trace element concentrations, sulfur and molybdenum isotopes, and iron speciation not only to better understand the local redox conditions but also to establish how relevant our data are to understanding the contemporaneous global ocean. Our results suggest that throughout deposition of the Xiamaling Formation, the basin experienced varying degrees of isolation from the global ocean. During deposition of the lower organic‐rich shales (130–85 m depth), the basin was extremely restricted, and the reservoirs of sulfate and trace metals were drawn down almost completely. Above a depth of 85 m, shales were deposited in dominantly euxinic waters that more closely resembled a marine system and thus potentially bear signatures of coeval seawater. In the most highly enriched sample from this upper interval, the concentration of molybdenum is 51 ppm with a δ98Mo value of +1.7‰. Concentrations of Mo and other redox‐sensitive elements in our samples are consistent with a deep ocean that was largely anoxic on a global scale. Our maximum δ98Mo value, in contrast, is high compared to published mid‐Proterozoic data. This high value raises the possibility that the Earth's surface environments were transiently more oxygenated at ~1.4 Ga compared to preceding or postdating times. More broadly, this study demonstrates the importance of integrating all available data when attempting to reconstruct surface O2 dynamics based on rocks of any age.
Pigment carbon and nitrogen isotopic signatures in euxinic basins
Authors: Fulton J. M. , Arthur M. A. , Thomas B. , Freeman K. H.
Published: March 2018

The carbon and nitrogen isotopic signatures of chloropigments and porphyrins from the sediments of redox‐stratified lakes and marine basins reveal details of past biogeochemical nutrient cycling. Such interpretations are strengthened by modern calibration studies, and here, we report on the C and N isotopic composition of pigments and nutrients in the water column and surface sediment of redox‐stratified Fayetteville Green Lake (FGL; New York). We also report δ13C and δ15N values for pyropheophytin a (Pphe a) and bacteriochlorophyll e (Bchl e) deposited in the Black Sea during its transition to a redox‐stratified basin ca. 7.8 ka. We propose a model for evolving nutrient cycling in the Black Sea from 7.8 to 6.4 ka, informed by the new pigment data from FGL. The seasonal study of water column nutrients and pigments at FGL revealed population dynamics in surface and deep waters that were also captured in the sediments. Biomass was greatest near the chemocline, where cyanobacteria, purple sulfur bacteria (PSB), and green sulfur bacteria (GSB) had seasonally variable populations. Bulk organic matter in the surface sediment, however, was derived mainly from the oxygenated surface waters. Surface sediment pigment δ13C and δ15N values indicate intact chlorophyll a (Chl a) was derived from near the chemocline, but its degradation product pheophytin a (Phe a) was derived primarily from surface waters. Bacteriopheophytin a (Bphe a) and Bchl e in the sediments came from chemocline populations of PSB and GSB, respectively. The distinctive δ13C and δ15N values for Chl a, Phe a, and Bphe a in the surface sediment are inputs to an isotopic mixing model that shows their decomposition to a common porphyrin derivative can produce non‐specific sedimentary isotope signatures. This model serves as a caveat for paleobiogeochemical interpretations in basins that had diverse populations near a shallow chemocline.
Microtopography‐induced transient waterlogging affects switchgrass (Alamo) growth in the lower coastal plain of North Carolina, USA
Authors: Tian Shiying , Fischer Milan , Chescheir George M. , Youssef Mohamed A. , Cacho Julian F. , King John S.
Published: March 2018

Very limited information is currently available on growth responses of switchgrass (lowland cultivars) to transient waterlogging in lowland or poorly drained areas. This study investigated impacts of microtopography‐induced transient waterlogging on switchgrass (Alamo cultivar) growth, represented by leaf‐level gas exchange and biomass yield, in an established experimental field located in the Atlantic coastal plain of North Carolina, USA. Intensive leaf‐level gas exchange measurements were conducted on switchgrass at paired spots with distinct elevations in three sub‐blocks. Aboveground biomass was randomly collected across the study field to explore the potential impacts of the transient waterlogging on biomass yield. The sum of excess water (SEW) was calculated based on measured instantaneous water table depth to generalize the relationship between biomass yield and intensity of transient waterlogging. Results showed significant (P ≤ 0.0001) treatment effects on leaf‐level gas exchange, characterized by evident reduction in both CO2 assimilation rate and stomatal conductance when water table was at or near the soil surface at low positions. Negative impacts of transient waterlogging on leaf‐level gas exchange became more evident with the increasing of elevation differences between paired subplots. Stomatal closure was found to be the main mechanism responsible for the decline of net assimilation under transient waterlogging. Aboveground biomass yields of switchgrass showed relatively high spatial variability and were positively and linearly correlated with microtopography (represented by elevation in the analysis) (P < 0.03, R2 > 0.77). Further analysis showed that biomass yields were negatively correlated with SEW (P < 0.001, R2 > 0.6) with an exponential relationship. Results of this study strongly demonstrated transient waterlogging could negatively affect switchgrass growth by suppressing leaf‐level gas exchange rates and ultimately reducing biomass yield. Findings from this study have critical implications for evaluating the economic viability of growing switchgrass on marginal lands that are subject to transient waterlogging stresses.
A Spatiotemporal Bayesian Hierarchical Approach to Investigating Patterns of Confidence in the Police at the Neighborhood Level
Authors: Williams Dawn , Haworth James , Blangiardo Marta , Cheng Tao
Published: March 2018

Public confidence in the police is crucial to effective policing. Improving understanding of public confidence at the local level will better enable the police to conduct proactive confidence interventions to meet the concerns of local communities. Conventional approaches do not consider that public confidence varies across geographic space as well as in time. Neighborhood level approaches to modeling public confidence in the police are hampered by the small number problem and the resulting instability in the estimates and uncertainty in the results. This research illustrates a spatiotemporal Bayesian approach for estimating and forecasting public confidence at the neighborhood level and we use it to examine trends in public confidence in the police in London, UK, for Q2 2006 to Q3 2013. Our approach overcomes the limitations of the small number problem and specifically, we investigate the effect of the spatiotemporal representation structure chosen on the estimates of public confidence produced. We then investigate the use of the model for forecasting by producing one‐step ahead forecasts of the final third of the time series. The results are compared with the forecasts from traditional time‐series forecasting methods like naïve, exponential smoothing, ARIMA, STARIMA, and others. A model with spatially structured and unstructured random effects as well as a normally distributed spatiotemporal interaction term was the most parsimonious and produced the most realistic estimates. It also provided the best forecasts at the London‐wide, Borough, and neighborhood level.
Role‐playing games in natural resource management and research: Lessons learned from theory and practice
Authors: Wesselow Maren , Stoll‐Kleemann Susanne
Published: March 2018

Participatory games are valued by many researchers as innovative tools to facilitate science‐practice communication in transdisciplinary research processes. This article explores the diverse potentials of role‐playing games (RPGs) in natural resource research and management. Based on a literature review, we discuss different types of game design, the stakeholder groups involved, and outcomes that may be achieved by this method. Our results display how game elements, rationales and rules can be adapted in accordance with the conveners’ intentions, and outline the roles that scientists, land users, institutional actors, and technicians assume in the RPG. We argue that RPGs have the potential to serve scientific knowledge production while also facilitating collective decision‐making, conflict mediation, and joint learning. A case study from Madagascar illustrates that land users can easily relate RPGs to their real lives. The participants in this case study reflected on their livelihood systems, collectively analysed problems, and discussed possible solutions. Finally, we critically discuss the validity and legitimacy of the research results, and measures to avoid bias and manipulation.
Relationship between alcohol consumption and periodontal tissue condition in community‐dwelling elderly Japanese
Authors: Suwama Kana , Yoshihara Akihiro , Watanabe Reiko , Stegaroiu Roxana , Shibata Satoko , Miyazaki Hideo
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To examine the associations among alcohol consumption level, dietary intake and other lifestyle factors, and periodontal condition, in community‐dwelling elderly Japanese of a specific age.

Background

The relationship between alcohol consumption level and periodontitis is a controversial issue.

Methods

Participants were 438 dentate elders aged 73 years from a larger cohort survey of elders in Niigata City, Japan. Data collected from oral examination of each participant, including number of the existing teeth, mean probing pocket depth and mean clinical attachment level (CAL) were used for the analyses. A semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire and a lifestyle habit questionnaire were used to assess food and alcohol consumption, smoking experience, frequency of tooth brushing, interdental brush use, and visits to a dental clinic during the previous year. Blood glucose control was assessed by the glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) level. Body mass index was calculated from height and weight measurements. The relationships between each variable and the individual mean CAL were analysed by univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

According to logistic regression analysis, the mean CAL was significantly associated with the number of existing teeth (odds ratio [OR] = 0.90; P < .001), being a heavy drinker (OR = 2.44; P < .05), and smoking experience (OR = 2.37; P < .01).

Conclusion

This study showed that increased mean CAL was significantly associated with heavy drinking in community‐dwelling elderly Japanese (aged 73 years) compared with non‐drinking. Our results provide new evidence that high alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of periodontal disease and its progression.
Evaluation of lactic acid bacteria isolated from alfalfa for silage fermentation
Authors: Li Dongxia , Wang Yanping , Zhang Yingchao , Lin Yanli , Yang Fuyu
Published: March 2018

The present study isolated 84 strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) 38 alfalfa cultivars in China and evaluated their effectiveness at improving alfalfa silage quality. The strains, belonging to seven genera, 15 species and subspecies were identified based on phenotypic and chemotaxonomic characteristics, 16S rDNA sequencing and recA gene polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. The LAB, predominantly Leuconostoc (46.4%), consisted of Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp. mesenteroides (22.6%), Leuconostoc lactis (2.4%), Leuconostoc fallax (7.1%), Leuconostoc citreum (1.2%), Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides (13.1%), Enterococcus hirae (8.3%), Enterococcus casseliflavus (8.3%), Enterococcus faecium (6.0%), Streptococcus parauberis (2.4%), Weissella cibaria (2.4%), Weissella confusa (11.9%), Pediococcus pentosaceus (6.0%), Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis (2.4%), Lactococcu garvieae (2.4%) and Lactobacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum (3.5%). Among the isolates, Lactobacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum ZZU A18 showed notable ability to decrease the pH in alfalfa broth and exhibited excellent effect to improve alfalfa silage quality. Compared to silage treated with or without a commercial silage additive, inoculation with L. plantarum subsp. plantarum ZZU A18 significantly increased the production of lactic acid and acetic acid, preserved the dry matter and crude protein content, decreased the pH and concentrations of propionic acid, butyric acid, ammonia‐nitrogen and inhibited undesirable microorganisms. In brief, strain ZZU A18 was considered as an effective inoculant for alfalfa silage.
Burden of illness and costs among paediatric haemophilia patients with and without central venous access devices treated in US hospitals
Authors: Buckley B. , Dreyfus J. , Prasad M. , Gayle J. , Kendter J. , Hall E.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Central venous access devices (CVADs) facilitate repeated or urgent treatments for paediatric haemophilia patients, but are associated with complications. This study examined the burden of illness, healthcare utilization and costs for CVADs in a real‐world hospital setting.

Materials and Methods

This study included haemophilia patients ages ≤18 years with discharges during 2006‐2014 in the US Premier Healthcare Database. Haemophilia was identified using ICD‐9 diagnosis codes and CVAD exposure using billing information. After matching haemophilia patients with and without CVADs on demographic and clinical characteristics, we compared infection, thrombosis, length of stay (LOS), inflation‐adjusted hospital cost (2014 $USD) and readmission outcomes using generalized estimating equation models adjusted for hospital teaching status.

Results

Among 4793 paediatric haemophilia patients treated at one of 548 hospitals, a total of 197 patients were identified with CVAD exposure. The matched sample included 310 haemophilia patients (155 CVAD and 155 non‐CVAD). CVAD cases had greater frequencies of all‐cause infections (29% vs 17%, P = .01) and thrombosis (6% vs 1%, P = .06), longer adjusted mean LOS (9.5 vs 4.7 days, P = .002), higher adjusted mean inpatient total hospitalization costs ($47200 vs $25389, P = .02) as well as more inpatient and outpatient visits at 30‐, 60‐ and 90‐days (P < .05 for all differences) compared with non‐CVAD patients.

Conclusion

Paediatric haemophilia patients with CVADs experienced greater infection rates, healthcare utilization and higher hospitalization costs compared with non‐CVAD patients. The results of this study may inform further research efforts to understand the costs and benefits of novel treatment alternatives for young haemophilia patients requiring CVADs.
Microtissue engineering root canal dentine with crosslinked biopolymeric nanoparticles for mechanical stabilization
Authors: Li F.‐C. , Kishen A.
Published: March 2018

Aim

To evaluate the functional strain distribution pattern in root dentine following canal preparation and root canal surface engineering with crosslinked biopolymeric nanoparticles using digital moiré interferometry (DMI).

Methodology

Root dentine specimens were prepared, grating material replicated and tested for 10–50 N, compressive loads in a customized high‐resolution, whole‐field moiré interferometry set‐up. Digital moiré fringes were acquired to determine the strain distribution pattern at specific regions of interest before and after canal enlargement, and dentine surface engineering with a chitosan nanoparticle crosslinker solution. Fringe patterns were acquired, and strain distribution pattern in the direction perpendicular to dentinal tubules (U‐field) and parallel to dentinal tubules (V‐field) was analysed with custom digital image‐processing software. Data were analysed with a statistical method on trend analysis at 0.05 significant level.

Results

Distinct deformation patterns perpendicular to the dentinal tubules were observed in root dentine. Root canal dentine removal following instrumentation resulted in an increase in strain distribution, which increased with an increase in applied loads (P < 0.01). The root canal dentine engineered with crosslinked nanoparticles demonstrated a conspicuous decrease in previously increased strain distribution in both coronal and apical root dentine (P < 0.01). A significant increase in tensile strain in root dentine was observed subsequent to instrumentation in the direction parallel to dentinal tubules (P < 0.01). There was a significant reduction in the tensile strain formed at the apical region of the instrumented root dentine following crosslinked nanoparticle treatment (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study highlighted the potential of root canal dentine microtissue engineering with crosslinked chitosan nanoparticle to improve radicular strain distribution patterns in instrumented canals.
Comparative assessment of stained‐glass windows materials by infrared thermography
Authors: Palomar Teresa , Agua Fernando , Gómez‐Heras Miguel
Published: March 2018

This paper reports the analyses of infrared thermography images of two stained‐glass windows with the objective of the in situ characterization of this type of artworks. The analyses were carried out by active thermography. The observations revealed that glasses absorbed the long‐wave IR radiation emitted by the halogen lamps and their apparent surface temperature progressively increased. After switching the spotlight off, they experienced a progressive decrease in temperature. Silver stained glasses presented the same thermographic behavior than uncolored glasses because silver nanoparticles were too small or the yellow layer was too thin to produce a different response than the base glass with the IR radiation. The apparent surface temperature of enamels and grisailles depended on their thickness and color. Lead cames maintained an almost constant surface apparent temperature, except those painted that behave in a similar way than enamels. Metallic tin‐lead welds experienced the most important variation in the surface apparent temperature in reflection mode due to the energy reflected by the surface of the weld. Glass defects such as big bubbles were also observed.
Oral administration of cernitin pollen extract (Cernilton®) for 30 days might be useful to avoid unnecessary biopsy in prostate biopsy candidates: A preliminary study
Authors: Togo Yoshikazu , Ichioka Daishi , Miyazaki Jun , Maeda Yoshiko , Kameyama Koji , Yasuda Mitsuru , Hiyama Yoshiki , Takahashi Satoshi , Nagae Hiroshi , Hirota Seiichi , Yamamoto Shingo ,   on behalf of the Japanese Research Group for Urinary Tract Infection (JRGU)
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To assess the effect of cernitin pollen extract on serum prostate‐specific antigen level prostate biopsy candidates, and to develop an ideal protocol to avoid an unnecessary biopsy procedure.

Methods

A total of 61 patients were administrated cernitin pollen extract tablets (two tablets t.i.d.) for 30 days, and then underwent a prostate biopsy with ≥12 systematic and targeted biopsy cores obtained. Serum prostate‐specific antigen levels were examined before and after administration of the pollen extract, and the change in serum prostate‐specific antigen and the rate of change were analyzed in relation to negative and positive biopsy results for cancer.

Results

The mean change in serum prostate‐specific antigen and rate of change after administration of cernitin pollen extract in all patients were −0.6 ± 1.4 ng/mL and −7.6 ± 16.1%, respectively, which were significantly different from the baseline values (P = 0.0003 and P = 0.0005, respectively). When prostate‐specific antigen change values and rates were compared between patients negative and positive for cancer, a significant difference between those groups was observed (P = 0.04 and P = 0.03, respectively).

Conclusions

The present study is the first to show that an ideal protocol using cernitin pollen extract has the potential to avoid an unnecessary prostate biopsy procedure in patients with elevated prostate‐specific antigen, possibly caused by inflammation. Additional studies with greater numbers of participants are required to confirm our findings and develop an ideal protocol.
Intensity ratio curve analysis of small renal masses on T2‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging: Differentiation of fat‐poor angiomyolipoma from renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Moriyama Shingo , Yoshida Soichiro , Tanaka Hajime , Tanaka Hiroshi , Yokoyama Minato , Ishioka Junichiro , Matsuoka Yoh , Saito Kazutaka , Kihara Kazunori , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To assess the diagnostic ability of a pixel intensity‐based analysis in evaluating the magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of small renal masses, especially in differentiating fat‐poor angiomyolipoma from renal cell carcinoma.

Methods

T2‐weighted images from 121 solid small renal masses (<4 cm) without visible fat (14 fat‐poor angiomyolipomas, 92 clear cell renal cell carcinomas, six chromophobe renal cell carcinomas and nine papillary renal cell carcinomas) were retrospectively evaluated. An intensity ratio curve was plotted using intensity ratios, which were ratios of signal intensities of tumor pixels (each pixel along a linear region of interest drawn across the renal tumor on T2‐weighted image) to the signal intensity of a normal renal cortex. The diagnostic ability of the intensity ratio curve analysis was evaluated.

Results

The tumors were classified into three types: intensity ratio fat‐poor angiomyolipoma (n = 19) with no pseudocapsule, iso‐low intensity and no heterogeneity; intensity ratio clear cell renal cell carcinoma (n = 76) with a pseudocapsule, iso‐high intensity and heterogeneity; and other type of intensity ratio (n = 26), including tumors that did not fall into the above two categories. The sensitivity/specificity/accuracy of the intensity ratio curve analysis in diagnosing fat‐poor angiomyolipoma was 93%/94%/94%, respectively. When the intensity ratio curve analysis was applied only to the tumor with undetermined radiological diagnosis, the sensitivity for diagnosing fat‐poor angiomyolipoma compared with subjective reading alone significantly improved (93% vs 50%; P = 0.014).

Conclusions

Our novel semiquantitative model for combined assessment of key features of fat‐poor angiomyolipoma, including low intensity, homogeneity and absence of a pseudocapsule on T2‐weighted image, might make diagnosis of fat‐poor angiomyolipoma more accurate.
Glutamatergic cells in the periaqueductal gray matter mediate sensory inputs after bladder stimulation in freely moving rats
Authors: Zare Aryo , Jahanshahi Ali , Meriaux Celine , Steinbusch Harry WM , van Koeveringe Gommert A
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To determine the phenotype of the ventrolateral part of the periaqueductal gray matter neurons after bladder stimulation.

Methods

In the experimental group, electrical stimulation of the bladder was carried out under freely moving condition by a bipolar stimulation electrode implanted in the bladder wall. Thereafter, the brain sections were processed for immunohistochemical analysis using antibodies against c‐Fos (neuronal activation marker) together with one of the following: tyrosine hydroxylase (dopaminergic cell marker), vesicular glutamate transporter (glutamatergic cell marker), serotonin, glutamate decarboxylase (glutamate decarboxylase 67, gamma‐aminobutyric acid cell marker) and neuronal nitric oxide synthase. We used design‐based confocal stereological analysis to quantify the immunohistochemically stained sections.

Results

A significant increase in the number of c‐Fos‐positive cells in the ventrolateral part of the periaqueductal gray matter after stimulation was found. Furthermore, the ratio of c‐Fos cells double labeled with vesicular glutamate transporter was significantly higher in the ventrolateral part of the periaqueductal gray matter region in the stimulated compared with the sham group. Quantitative analysis of the other four cell types did not show any significant difference.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that glutamatergic neurotransmission in the ventrolateral part of the periaqueductal gray matter is seemingly the main pathway to be activated after receiving sensory signals from the bladder.
Extracellular vesicles as mediators of immunopathology in infectious diseases
Authors: Hosseini‐Beheshti Elham , Grau Georges Emile Raymond
Published: March 2018

In the last decades, extracellular vesicles have emerged as important elements in cell–cell communication and as key players in disease pathogenesis via transmission of their cargo between different cells. Various works have described different subpopulations of these membrane structures, based on their cell of origin, biogenesis, size, biophysical properties and cargo. In addition to their pathophysiological role in the development and progression of different diseases including infectious diseases, neurodegenerative disorders and cancer, extracellular vesicles are now recognized for their potential as novel therapeutic targets and intelligent drug delivery system. Here, we have reviewed the most recent data on different subtypes of extracellular vesicles, focusing on microvesicles and exosomes and their subpopulations, their involvement in immune‐mediated pathogenesis of various infectious diseases and their role as potential therapeutic targets.
Peer work in Open Dialogue: A discussion paper
Authors: Bellingham Brett , Buus Niels , McCloughen Andrea , Dawson Lisa , Schweizer Richard , Mikes‐Liu Kristof , Peetz Amy , Boydell Katherine , River Jo
Published: March 2018

Open Dialogue is a resource‐oriented approach to mental health care that originated in Finland. As Open Dialogue has been adopted across diverse international healthcare settings, it has been adapted according to contextual factors. One important development in Open Dialogue has been the incorporation of paid, formal peer work. Peer work draws on the knowledge and wisdom gained through lived experience of distress and hardship to establish mutual, reciprocal, and supportive relationships with service users. As Open Dialogue is now being implemented across mental health services in Australia, stakeholders are beginning to consider the role that peer workers might have in this model of care. Open Dialogue was not, initially, conceived to include a specific role for peers, and there is little available literature, and even less empirical research, in this area. This discussion paper aims to surface some of the current debates and ideas about peer work in Open Dialogue. Examples and models of peer work in Open Dialogue are examined, and the potential benefits and challenges of adopting this approach in health services are discussed. Peer work in Open Dialogue could potentially foster democracy and disrupt clinical hierarchies, but could also move peer work from reciprocal to a less symmetrical relationship of ‘giver’ and ‘receiver’ of care. Other models of care, such as lived experience practitioners in Open Dialogue, can be conceived. However, it remains uncertain whether the hierarchical structures in healthcare and current models of funding would support any such models.
Mid‐IR transparent TeO2‐TiO2‐La2O3 glass and its crystallization behavior for photonic applications
Authors: Gupta Gaurav , Balaji Sathravada , Biswas Kaushik , Kalyandurg Annapurna
Published: March 2018

In this report, effect of enhanced rare earth (La2O3) concentration on substitution of TeO2 within ternary TeO2‐TiO2‐La2O3 (TTL) glass system has been studied with respect to its thermal, structural, mechanical, optical, and crystallization properties with an aim to achieve glass and glass‐ceramics having rare‐earth‐rich crystalline phase for nonlinear optical and infrared photonic applications. DSC analysis (10°C/min) demonstrates a progressive increase in glass‐transition temperature (Tg) from 359 to 452°C with the increase in La2O3 content. Continuous glass network modification with transformation of [TeO4] to [TeO3/TeO3+1] units is evidenced from Raman spectra which is corroborated with XPS studies. While mechanical properties demonstrate enhancement of cross‐linking density in the network. These glasses exhibit optical transmission window extended from 0.4 to 6 μm with calculated zero dispersion wavelength (λZDW) varying from 2.41 to 2.28 μm depending upon La2O3 content. Crystallization kinetics of TTL10 (80TeO2‐10TiO2‐10La2O3 in mol%) glass has been studied via established models. Activation energy (Ea) has been evaluated and dimensionality of crystal growth (m) suggests formation of surface crystals. Glass‐ceramic with crystalline phase of La2Te6O15 has been realized in heat‐treated TTL10 glass samples (at 450°C). As predicted from DSC analysis, FESEM study unveils the formation of surface crystallized glass‐ceramics.
Formation of metastable wurtzite phase boron nitride by emulsion detonation synthesis
Authors: Örnek Metin , Hwang Chawon , Xie Kelvin Y. , Pratas Silvio , Calado João , Burgess Alan , Domnich Vladislav , Hemker Kevin J. , Haber Richard A.
Published: March 2018

Emulsion detonation synthesis (EDS) is a newly developed process to synthesize nano‐sized ceramic powders based on the detonation of 2 water‐in‐oil emulsions. The process provides high pressure and temperature along with rapid quenching. In this work, we report the formation of wurtzite phase BN (w‐BN) for the first time by EDS process, using hexagonal BN (h‐BN) as the precursor. Characterization studies demonstrated the formation of w‐BN with sizes varying from nanometer to micrometer scale either embedded in or grown from h‐BN matrix. These findings provide a new avenue to synthesize metastable and superhard BN phases.
Synthesis of GAGG:Ce3+ powder for ceramics using mechanochemical and solution combustion methods
Authors: McDonald Kaitlyn A. , Schweitzer George K.
Published: March 2018

Gadolinium aluminum gallium garnet doped with cerium (Gd2.99Al2.00Ga3.00O12.00:Ce0.01, or GAGG:Ce) powders has been synthesized with high‐energy ball milling (HEBM) and solution combustion synthesis (SCS) techniques. The structures and morphologies of the powders were characterized through use of powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), photoluminescence (PL) measurements, dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and UV‐decay time measurements. Changes in the mechanochemically produced powders were monitored over time, while the solution combustion synthesis of GAGG:Ce was conducted using various ratios and types of fuels. In both production methods, particle sizes on the order of microns gave evidence of agglomeration.