bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Re‐evaluation of insect melanogenesis research: Views from the dark side
Authors: Whitten Miranda M. A. , Coates Christopher J.
Published: April 2017

Melanins (eumelanin and pheomelanin) are synthesized in insects for several purposes including cuticle sclerotization and color patterning, clot formation, organogenesis, and innate immunity. Traditional views of insect immunity detail the storage of pro‐phenoloxidases inside specialized blood cells (hemocytes) and their release upon recognition of foreign bodies. Activated phenoloxidases convert monophenols into reactive quinones in a two‐step enzymatic reaction, and until recently, the mechanism of tyrosine hydroxylation remained a mystery. Herein, we present our interpretations of these enzyme–substrate complexes. The resultant melanins are deposited onto the surface of microbes to immobilize, agglutinate, and suffocate them. Phenoloxidase activity and melanin production are not limited to the blood (hemolymph) or cuticle, as recent evidence points to more diverse, sophisticated interactions in the gut and with the resident symbionts. This review offers insight into the somewhat neglected areas of insect melanogenesis research, particularly in innate immunity, its role in beneficial insects such as pollinators, the functional versatility of phenoloxidases, and the limitations of common experimental approaches that may impede progress inadvertently.
From fish bowl to bedside: The power of zebrafish to unravel melanoma pathogenesis and discover new therapeutics
Authors: van Rooijen Ellen , Fazio Maurizio , Zon Leonard I.
Published: April 2017

Melanoma is the most aggressive and deadliest form of skin cancer. A detailed knowledge of the cellular, molecular, and genetic events underlying melanoma progression is highly relevant to diagnosis, prognosis and risk stratification, and the development of new therapies. In the last decade, zebrafish have emerged as a valuable model system for the study of melanoma. Pathway conservation, coupled with the availability of robust genetic, transgenic, and chemical tools, has made the zebrafish a powerful model for identifying novel disease genes, visualizing cancer initiation, interrogating tumor–microenvironment interactions, and discovering new therapeutics that regulate melanocyte and melanoma development. In this review, we will give an overview of these studies, and highlight recent advancements that will help unravel melanoma pathogenesis and impact human disease.
Accidents happen: Psychological empowerment as a moderator of accident involvement and its outcomes
Authors: Erdogan Berrin , Ozyilmaz Adnan , Bauer Talya N. , Emre Onur
Published: April 2017

Research in the occupational safety realm has tended to develop and test models aimed at predicting accident involvement in the workplace, with studies treating accident involvement as the starting point and examining its outcomes being more rare. In this study, we examine the relationship between accident involvement and a series of outcomes drawing upon a learned helplessness theory perspective. Specifically, we predicted that psychological empowerment would moderate the relationship between prior accident involvement and outcomes. We tested our hypotheses on a sample of 392 employees and their 66 supervisors working in an iron and steel manufacturing firm in Southern Turkey, using data collected from employees and their supervisors via four separate surveys. Results suggest that accident involvement was positively related to supervisor‐rated employee withdrawal, production deviance, and sabotage only when psychological empowerment was low. The results illustrate that workplace accidents have indirect costs in the form of higher withdrawal and maladaptive behaviors, and organizations may inoculate employees against some of these outcomes via higher psychological empowerment.
Effectiveness of Photodynamic Therapy in Elimination of HPV‐16 and HPV‐18 Associated with CIN I in Mexican Women
Authors: Maldonado Alvarado Elizabeth , Osorio Peralta Martha Olivia , Moreno Vázquez Alejandra , Martínez Guzmán Lydia Alejandra , Melo Petrone Maria Eugenia , Enriquez Mar Zulma Iveth , Jovel Galdamez Dora Estela , Carrión Solana Bárbara , Balderas Martínez Guadalupe , Parra Eduarda , Castellanos Oliveros Rossana Inés , Bello Leiva Rosa Linda , Espinosa Montesinos Araceli , Barrera Mendoza Citlalli , Medina García Selma Eugenia , Ramón Gallegos Eva
Published: April 2017

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy (PDT), using δ‐aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA), in the elimination of premalignant cervical lesions in Mexican patients with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and/or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). Thirty women diagnosed with CIN I and/or positive for HPV participated in the study. Topical 6% 5‐ALA in gel form was applied to the uterine cervix; after 4 h, the lesion area was irradiated with a light dose of 200 J cm−2 at 635 nm. This procedure was performed three times at 48‐h intervals. Clinical follow‐up was performed at 3, 6, and 12 months after the initial PDT administration, by colposcopy, cervical cytology, histopathological analysis, polymerase chain reaction, and hybrid capture. Of HPV‐infected patients without evidence of CIN I, 80% cleared the infection, while HPV associated with CIN I was eliminated in 83% of patients (P < 0.05). At 12 months, CIN I had regressed in 57% of patients, although this response was not statistically significant. PDT using 6% 5‐ALA is concluded to be effective in eliminating HPV infection associated or not with CIN I.
Exposure to Violence and Attitudes Towards Transitional Justice
Authors: Hall Jonathan , Kovras Iosif , Stefanovic Djordje , Loizides Neophytos
Published: April 2017

Transitional justice has emerged to address victims' needs as a means of restoring relations broken by violence. Yet we know little about victims' attitudes towards different transitional justice mechanisms. Why do some victims prioritize retributive justice while others favor other forms of dealing with the violent past? What determines victims' attitudes towards transitional justice policies? To address these questions, we offer a new theoretical framework that draws upon recent insights from the field of evolutionary psychology and links both war exposure and postwar environments to transitional justice preferences. We argue that both past experiences of wartime violence and present‐day social interdependence with perpetrators impact transitional justice preferences, but in divergent ways (resulting in greater support for retributive vs. restorative justice measures, respectively). To test our framework, we rely upon a 2013 representative survey of 1,007 respondents focusing on general population attitudes towards transitional justice in Bosnia two decades after the implementation of the Dayton Accords. Specifically, we examine the impact of displacement, return to prewar homes, loss of property, loss of a loved one, physical injury, imprisonment, and torture on attitudes towards transitional justice. On the whole, our findings confirm our two main hypotheses: Exposure to direct violence and losses is associated with more support for retributive justice measures, while greater present‐day interdependence with perpetrators is associated with more support for restorative justice measures. While acknowledging the legacy of wartime violence, we highlight the importance of the postwar context and institutional mechanisms that support victims in reconstructing their lives.
Accuracy of Birth Certificate Data for Classifying Preterm Birth
Authors: Stout Molly J. , Macones George A. , Tuuli Methodius G.
Published: April 2017

Background

Classifying preterm birth as spontaneous or indicated is critical both for clinical care and research, yet the accuracy of classification based on different data sources is unclear. We examined the accuracy of preterm birth classification as spontaneous or indicated based on birth certificate data.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of 123 birth certificates from preterm births in Missouri. Correct classification of spontaneous or indicated preterm birth subtype was based on multi‐provider (RN, MFM Fellow, MFM attending) consensus after full medical record review. A categorisation algorithm based on clinical data available in the birth certificate was designed a priori and classification was performed by a single investigator according to the algorithm. Accuracy of birth certificate classification as spontaneous or indicated was compared to the consensus classification. Errors in misclassification were explored.

Results

Classification based on birth certificates was correct for 66% of preterm births. Most errors in classification by birth certificate occurred in classifying a birth as spontaneous when it was in fact indicated. The vast majority of errors occurred when preterm rupture of membranes (≥12 h) was checked on the birth certificate causing classification as spontaneous when there was a maternal or fetal indication for delivery.

Conclusions

Birth certificate classification overestimated spontaneous preterm birth and underestimated indicated preterm birth compared to classification performed from medical record review. Revisions to birth certificate clinical data would allow more accurate population level surveillance of preterm birth subtypes.
Why Do Nonprofit Performing Arts Organizations Offer Free Public Access?
Authors: Kim Mirae , Pandey Sheela , Pandey Sanjay K.
Published: April 2017

A number of studies have shown that arts and cultural programs offer multifarious benefits to individuals and communities. However, there has been little discussion in the public management literature regarding access to cultural programs for people with limited disposable income. Although the arts industry is increasingly emphasizing the importance of expanding cultural access for all, we know little about what drives individual nonprofit organizations’ strategies. This article draws on benefits theory and resource dependence theory to explore the relationships between different types of revenue and the extent to which performing arts nonprofits offer free access. The authors use a unique data set compiled by DataArts to test how various types of revenue influence accessibility to the arts and find that performing arts nonprofits receiving grants from local governments, foundations, and corporations offer more free access. The article concludes with a discussion of study implications and an application of benefits theory to other types of nonprofits.
University business models in disequilibrium – engaging industry and end users within university technology transfer processes
Authors: McAdam Maura , Miller Kristel , McAdam Rodney
Published: April 2017

This article explores how greater engagement with industry and end users has influenced the University Technology Transfer Business Model. In order to achieve this, they adopted a qualitative methodology which draws upon case study evidence of two case universities located in a particular region. The findings, represented in a conceptual framework depict a hybrid University Technology Transfer Business Model which is in a state of permanent disequilibrium as a result of path dependency and organisational culture. This permanent disequilibrium was found to cause challenges in relation to scarce resource allocation and also impacted upon the willingness and ability of academics to engage with industry and end users throughout the technology transfer process. This article contributes to an emerging stream of research on hybrid business models by identifying the challenges of permanent disequilibrium where multiple and conflicting stakeholder goals compete for legitimacy and scarce resources. From a policy and practitioner viewpoint, this research draws attention to the complexities of university, government, industry and end user (Quadruple Helix stakeholders) engagement and the implications of such on university strategy where conflicting dominant logics can cause challenges with alignment of organisational processes and mechanisms.
Nintedanib for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in the Japanese population
Authors: Jo Helen E. , Corte Tamera J.
Published: April 2017

See article, page 750
Development of an Asset Value Map for Disaster Risk Assessment in China by Spatial Disaggregation Using Ancillary Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Wu Jidong , Li Ying , Li Ning , Shi Peijun
Published: April 2017

The extent of economic losses due to a natural hazard and disaster depends largely on the spatial distribution of asset values in relation to the hazard intensity distribution within the affected area. Given that statistical data on asset value are collected by administrative units in China, generating spatially explicit asset exposure maps remains a key challenge for rapid postdisaster economic loss assessment. The goal of this study is to introduce a top‐down (or downscaling) approach to disaggregate administrative‐unit level asset value to grid‐cell level. To do so, finding the highly correlated “surrogate” indicators is the key. A combination of three data sets—nighttime light grid, LandScan population grid, and road density grid, is used as ancillary asset density distribution information for spatializing the asset value. As a result, a high spatial resolution asset value map of China for 2015 is generated. The spatial data set contains aggregated economic value at risk at 30 arc‐second spatial resolution. Accuracy of the spatial disaggregation reflects redistribution errors introduced by the disaggregation process as well as errors from the original ancillary data sets. The overall accuracy of the results proves to be promising. The example of using the developed disaggregated asset value map in exposure assessment of watersheds demonstrates that the data set offers immense analytical flexibility for overlay analysis according to the hazard extent. This product will help current efforts to analyze spatial characteristics of exposure and to uncover the contributions of both physical and social drivers of natural hazard and disaster across space and time.
Dendritic Cells from Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient Peripheral Blood Induce Th17 Cell Differentiation via miR‐363/Integrin αv/TGF‐β Axis
Authors: Pan F. , Xiang H. , Yan J. , Hong L. , Zhang L. , Liu Y. , Feng X. , Cai C.
Published: April 2017

Dendritic cells (DCs) are critical regulators of immune responses. This study was to observe the effect of DCs from peripheral blood on the differentiation of Th17 in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Peripheral blood samples were collected from 30 patients with RA and 20 healthy controls, respectively. Flow cytometry results showed that in contrast to Treg cells, the proportion of Th17 cells in T cells and the Th17/Treg ratio were both increased in patients with RA. The RT‐PCR results showed that Foxp3、ROR γt and miR‐363 expression in PBMC of patients with RA were reduced, but the ITGAV expression was increased, which was negatively related to miR‐363 expression. IL‐17, TGF‐β and IL‐6 levels detected by ELISA were increased in peripheral blood serum of patients with RA. Moreover, we noted that the CD11C+αν+/CD11C+ DCs ratio was obvious increased in patients with RA and has positive correlation to the Th17/Treg ratio. In cocultured system, Th17 cell differentiation was significantly inhibited in the presence of ITGF‐β suggesting that Th17 cell differentiation was controlled by active TGF‐β (aTGF‐β). After DCs transfecting with miR‐363 mimics and cocultured with T cells, Th17 cell number, IL‐17 level and ROR‐γt expression were significantly reduced in the presence of latent TGF‐β (ITGF‐β). In addition, the integrin αv protein expression was both reduced in the presence of aTGF‐β or ITGF‐β. These data demonstrated that DCs induced Th17 cell differentiation through miR‐363/Integrin αv/TGF‐β pathway in patients with RA.
Empirical Uncertain Bayes Methods in Area‐level Models
Authors: Sugasawa Shonosuke , Kubokawa Tatsuya , Ogasawara Kota
Published: April 2017

Random effects model can account for the lack of fitting a regression model and increase precision of estimating area‐level means. However, in case that the synthetic mean provides accurate estimates, the prior distribution may inflate an estimation error. Thus, it is desirable to consider the uncertain prior distribution, which is expressed as the mixture of a one‐point distribution and a proper prior distribution. In this paper, we develop an empirical Bayes approach for estimating area‐level means, using the uncertain prior distribution in the context of a natural exponential family, which we call the empirical uncertain Bayes (EUB) method. The regression model considered in this paper includes the Poisson‐gamma and the binomial‐beta, and the normal‐normal (Fay–Herriot) model, which are typically used in small area estimation. We obtain the estimators of hyperparameters based on the marginal likelihood by using a well‐known expectation‐maximization algorithm and propose the EUB estimators of area means. For risk evaluation of the EUB estimator, we derive a second‐order unbiased estimator of a conditional mean squared error by using some techniques of numerical calculation. Through simulation studies and real data applications, we evaluate a performance of the EUB estimator and compare it with the usual empirical Bayes estimator.
The development of the physical fitness construct across childhood
Authors: Utesch T. , Dreiskämper D. , Strauss B. , Naul R.
Published: April 2017

The measurement of physical fitness (PF) is an important factor from many different perspectives. PF is a determinant of healthy child development as it is related to several health outcomes. However, existing taxonomies of the construct and frequently used fitness assessments vary concerning their theoretical assumptions and practical implications. From a theoretical perspective, the construct of physical fitness covers a variety of motor domains, such as cardiovascular endurance, strength, coordination, or flexibility (eg, Caspersen et al., 1985). However, most fitness assessments provide a single (composite) score including all items as test outcome. This implicitly relates to a one‐dimensional structure of physical fitness, which has been shown for other motor performance assessments in early childhood (eg, Utesch et al., 2016). This study investigated this one‐dimensional structure for 6‐ to 9‐year‐old children within the item response theory framework (Partial Credit Model). Seven fitness subtests covering a variety of motor dimensions (6‐minute run, pushups, sit‐ups, standing broad jump, 20 m sprint, jumping sideways, and balancing backwards) were conducted to a total of 790 six‐year‐olds, 1371 seven‐year‐olds, 1331 eight‐year‐olds, and 925 nine‐year‐olds (48.2% females). Each item was transformed into five performance categories controlling for sex and age. This study indicates that a one‐dimensional testing of PF is feasible across middle childhood. Furthermore, for 6‐ and 7‐year‐olds, all seven items including balancing backwards can be accumulated to one factor. From the age of about 8 and 9 years balancing backwards seems to become too easy. Altogether, analyses show no diversification of PF across childhood.
Cutoffs of isokinetic strength ratio and hamstring strain prediction in professional soccer players
Authors: Dauty M. , Menu P. , Fouasson‐Chailloux A.
Published: April 2017

Hamstring strain injuries frequently occur during professional soccer practice. Low hamstring strength represents an intrinsic modifiable risk factor but cutoffs of isokinetic knee strength ratios are controversial to predict hamstring strain in professional soccer players. We aimed to predict hamstring strain in accordance with cutoffs of isokinetic knee strength ratios. Bilateral, conventional, and functional isokinetic strength ratios were calculated in 194 professional soccer players at the beginning of 15 consecutive seasons. 36 soccer players presented a moderate hamstring strain and 158 were not injured. The different calculated isokinetic ratios were compared with the right and left limb of the uninjured population. Different usual cutoffs were tested: at 0.85 and 0.90 for the bilateral concentric and eccentric hamstring‐to‐hamstring ratio, at 0.60 and 0.47 for the conventional hamstring‐to‐quadriceps ratio and at 0.80 and 1 for the mixed hamstring‐to‐quadriceps ratio. The specific ratios for the studied population were also determined by the 10th percentile and then tested. Hamstring strain prediction was established in terms of odds ratios. No cutoff with bilateral, conventional, or functional isokinetic strength ratio was predictive of hamstring strain after univariate analysis. Specific cutoffs determined from the studied population were not more predictive. Very few injured soccer players presented values under the cutoffs at 0.47 for the conventional ratio and at 0.80 for the mixed ratio. Regardless of their values, cutoffs of isokinetic strength ratios were not predictive of hamstring injuries. The use of isokinetic cutoffs is not recommended to predict hamstring muscle strain in professional soccer players.
The effects of the Great Recession on American families
Authors: Schneider Daniel
Published: April 2017

The Great Recession was marked by historic rates of unemployment and foreclosure and caused substantial household economic hardship and widespread economic uncertainty. I review recent social scientific research on the effects of the Great Recession on American families. I first generate a set of expectations for how the Great Recession would have affected (a) marriage and cohabitation, (b) fertility, and (c) relationship quality and divorce based on existing sociological and demographic theory and research. I then discuss the key methods that scholars have used to gauge the effects of the Great Recession in these outcome areas. My review of research to date indicates that the recession had modest effects on marriage and cohabitation, but significant negative effects on fertility. Notably, these fertility effects are evident among unmarried and low socio‐economic‐status (SES) women whom prior research has suggested decouple fertility from economic concerns. Finally, there is modest evidence that the Great Recession reduced relationship quality, but it appears that the costs of divorce restrained any increase in dissolution.
A new framing for an old sociology of intimacy
Authors: Forstie Clare
Published: April 2017

The concept of intimacy has long permeated theories of social life, and its use within sociology has produced conceptual confusion rather than coherence. Overlapping with concepts of emotions and communities, intimacy both binds modern life together and offers a respite from its affective “coldness.” This paper offers a framework for the concept of intimacy and outlines the dimensions along which to organize future empirical work. Building on sociological, psychological, and queer theoretical approaches, I propose four such dimensions: affect, knowledge, mutual action, and norms. The degree of overlap between these four dimensions suggests a continuum between “strong” and “weak” intimacies. These conceptual refinements enable empirical specification, particularly in the study of close relationships like friendships.
Unfinished Business: Disentangling Sex, Gender, and Sexuality in Sociological Research on Gender Stratification
Authors: Geist Claudia , Reynolds Megan M. , Gaytán Marie S.
Published: April 2017

Focusing on two major strands of research on gender stratification, labor market inequality and health disparities, we argue that cisnormativity and heteronormativity obscure the rich variation in how people experience their own sense of gender and sexuality, as well as how others perceive them. Although researchers’ reliance on static notions of gender and sexuality is starting to shift, there is room for improvement, especially in the area of gender inequality. To highlight the advancements in researchers’ thinking, we spotlight exemplary work that incorporates gender expansive realities using empirically and/or theoretically grounded approaches. We conclude by outlining best practices to measure gender identity, sexual identity, gender expression, gender conformity, and other facets of gender and sexuality.
Emotions in criminological theory: Insights from social psychology
Authors: Dippong Joseph , Fitch Chivon
Published: April 2017

A number of scholars have noted that emotional processes have been undertheorized in criminology. Although criminologists have explored how various emotions facilitate or inhibit crime, few formal theories of crime clearly address the role of emotional processes. Sociological theories of emotions provide a number of insights that criminologists might find useful to help fill the gaps in criminological explanations of offending. We illustrate the utility of sociological theories of emotions to criminology by connecting three prominent criminological theories with complimentary social psychological theories of emotions. Specifically, we discuss how the power–status theory of emotions can clarify emotional responses to strain in general strain theory, how affect control theory can illuminate the emotions involved in identity adoption within labeling theory, and how interaction ritual chains theory can highlight emotional responses to coercion in differential coercion theory. Making connections to more clearly theorize emotions is critical to the advancement of criminological theory.
Detection of a novel HLA‐B allele, HLA‐B*39:119, in a Chinese individual
Authors: Yu H. , Ji X. , Ou G. J. , Wang J. , Chen Q.
Published: April 2017

HLA‐B*39:119 allele differs from
HLA‐B*39:01:01:01 by a single nucleotide substitution at position 488.
Where does the Albumin go? Human Albumin Solution usage following the implementation of a demand management programme
Authors: Yazdani M. S. , Retter A. , Maggs T. , Li P. , Robson M. G. , Reid C. , Holmes P. , Garood T. , Robinson S. E.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To outline the Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust (GSTFT) and Evelina London Children's Hospital (ELCH) demand management plan for human albumin solution (HAS) and usage.

Background

There is no UK‐wide guidance governing the use of HAS. A severe shortage in 2015 prompted a Trust demand management programme. Indications were categorised according to locally agreed colour code and ASFA categories.

Methods

Following the implementation of the demand management programme, a 6‐month audit of HAS usage was completed.

Results

A total of 1303.1 L of HAS was used in 1139 infusions; 737 infusions were 20% HAS, accounting for 175.7 L (13.5%) in 181 patients. Indications for 20% HAS were red in 53.9% (94.7 L), blue in 26.5% (46.5 L) and grey in 19.6% (34.5 L). The remaining 1127.4 L (86.5%) infused were of 4.5 and 5 % HAS. A total of 1102.3 L (97.8%) was used for plasma exchange, 941.4 L (85.4%) ASFA category I, 93.7 L (8.5%) category II, 25.5 L (2.3%) category IV and 41.7 L (3.8%) for indications not specified according to ASFA; 25.1 L (2.2%) were used for a grey indication (volume resuscitation for hypovolaemia).

Conclusions

The demand management programme provides surveillance of indications and retrospective verification of appropriate use. The majority of HAS indications were appropriate. Plasma exchange accounted for 84.6% of HAS usage and will be the focus of further demand management strategies. The demand management programme whilst aiming to promote best transfusion practice also ensures a tool to manage future shortages according to indication and available supply.
Disease spectrum and management of children admitted with acute respiratory infection in Viet Nam
Authors: Nguyen T. K. P. , Nguyen D. V. , Truong T. N. H. , Tran M. D. , Graham S. M. , Marais B. J.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To assess the acute respiratory infection (ARI) disease spectrum, duration of hospitalisation and outcome in children hospitalised with an ARI in Viet Nam.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective descriptive study of ARI admissions to primary (Hoa Vang District Hospital), secondary (Da Nang Hospital for Women and Children) and tertiary (National Hospital of Paediatrics in Ha Noi) level hospitals in Viet Nam over 12 months (01/09/2015 to 31/08/2016).

Results

Acute respiratory infections accounted for 27.9% (37 436/134 061) of all paediatric admissions; nearly half (47.6%) of all children admitted to Hoa Vang District Hospital. Most (64.6%) of children hospitalised with an ARI were <2 years of age. Influenza/pneumonia accounted for 69.4% of admissions; tuberculosis for only 0.3%. Overall 284 (0.8%) children died; most deaths (269/284; 94.7%) occurred at the tertiary referral hospital. The average duration of hospitalisation was 7.6 days (median 7 days). The average direct hospitalisation cost per ARI admission was 157.5 USD in Da Nang Provincial Hospital. In total, 62.6% of admissions were covered by health insurance.

Conclusion

Acute respiratory infection is a major cause of paediatric hospitalisation in Viet Nam, characterised by prolonged hospitalisation for relatively mild disease. There is huge potential to reduce unnecessary hospital admission and cost.
Causes and consequences of higher Leishmania infantum burden in patients with kala‐azar: a study of 625 patients
Authors: Zacarias Danielle A. , Rolão Nuno , de Pinho Flaviane A. , Sene Ingridi , Silva Jailthon C. , Pereira Teresinha C. , Costa Dorcas L. , Costa Carlos H. N.
Published: April 2017

Background

An infected host's Leishmania infantum load in blood is considered to be an estimate of his or her total parasite burden. Therefore, the measurement of blood parasite burden is important in the identification of factors involved in parasite control.

Methods

Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed on blood samples from 625 patients with kala‐azar consecutively admitted to a reference hospital in Teresina, Brazil. Primers were used to amplify a segment of kDNA using the TaqMan system. Non‐parametric statistical tests were applied.

Results

The median blood parasite burden was 499.2 amastigote equivalents (AE)/ml. Children <1 year old (yo) had a high parasite burden, which dropped sharply after the first year of life (192.8, AE/ml at 1 < 2 yo) and remained lower until adolescence. Following adolescence, the parasite burden increased with age, peaking among elderly individuals. Men had a higher parasite burden than women. HIV‐infected patients had a much higher parasite burden than non‐infected patients. The parasite burden of children under 5 years with acute moderate to severe malnourishment (weight‐for‐age and body mass index z‐scores <−2) was almost three times greater than that of better‐nourished children. The parasite burden identified in deceased patients was more than twice that of surviving patients; those with a higher risk of death, sepsis, pneumonia and jaundice also had increased parasite burdens. All of these differences were statistically significant at P‐values <0.05.

Conclusions

These data indicate that the parasite burden in patients with kala‐azar was associated with age‐ and gender‐associated factors and with HIV infection status. Acute malnutrition could be either a cause or a consequence of a higher parasite burden. An individual's parasite burden influences his or her clinical profile, disease severity and mortality risk. The best explanation for the presence of a higher parasite burden in individuals with these immunoregulatory conditions and severe disease is the occurrence of acquired immunosuppression followed by heightened innate immunity.
Microscopic observation drug‐susceptibility assay vs. Xpert®MTB/RIF for the diagnosis of tuberculosis in a rural African setting: a cost–utility analysis
Authors: Wikman‐Jorgensen Philip E. , Llenas‐García Jara , Pérez‐Porcuna Tomàs M. , Hobbins Michael , Ehmer Jochen , Mussa Manuel A. , Ascaso Carlos
Published: April 2017

Objective

To compare the cost–utility of microscopic observation drug‐susceptibility assay (MODS) and Xpert® MTB/RIF implementation for tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis in rural northern Mozambique.

Methods

Stochastic transmission compartmental TB model from the healthcare provider perspective with parameter input from direct measurements, systematic literature reviews and expert opinion. MODS and Xpert® MTB/RIF were evaluated as replacement test of smear microscopy (SM) or as an add‐on test after a negative SM. Costs were calculated in 2013 USD, effects in disability‐adjusted life years (DALY). Willingness to pay threshold (WPT) was established at once the per capita Gross National Income of Mozambique.

Results

MODS as an add‐on test to negative SM produced an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER) of 5647.89USD/DALY averted. MODS as a substitute for SM yielded an ICER of 5374.58USD/DALY averted. Xpert® MTB/RIF as an add‐on test to negative SM yielded ICER of 345.71USD/DALY averted. Xpert® MTB/RIF as a substitute for SM obtained an ICER of 122.13USD/DALY averted. TB prevalence and risk of infection were the main factors impacting MODS and Xpert® MTB/RIF ICER in the one‐way sensitivity analysis. In the probabilistic sensitivity analysis, Xpert® MTB/RIF was most likely to have an ICER below the WPT, whereas MODS was not.

Conclusion

Our cost–utility analysis favours the implementation of Xpert® MTB/RIF as a replacement of SM for all TB suspects in this rural high TB/HIV prevalence African setting.
Alcohol acyl transferase 1 links two distinct volatile pathways that produce esters and phenylpropenes in apple fruit
Authors: Yauk Yar‐Khing , Souleyre Edwige J.F. , Matich Adam J. , Chen Xiuyin , Wang Mindy Y. , Plunkett Blue , Dare Andrew P. , Espley Richard V. , Tomes Sumathi , Chagné David , Atkinson Ross G.
Published: April 2017

Fruit accumulate a diverse set of volatiles including esters and phenylpropenes. Volatile esters are synthesised via fatty acid degradation or from amino acid precursors, with the final step being catalysed by alcohol acyl transferases (AATs). Phenylpropenes are produced as a side branch of the general phenylpropanoid pathway. Major quantitative trait loci (QTLs) on apple (Malus × domestica) linkage group (LG)2 for production of the phenylpropene estragole and volatile esters (including 2‐methylbutyl acetate and hexyl acetate) both co‐located with the MdAAT1 gene. MdAAT1 has previously been shown to be required for volatile ester production in apple (Plant J., 2014, https://doi.org/10.1111/tpj.12518), and here we show it is also required to produce p‐hydroxycinnamyl acetates that serve as substrates for a bifunctional chavicol/eugenol synthase (MdoPhR5) in ripe apple fruit. Fruit from transgenic ‘Royal Gala’ MdAAT1 knockdown lines produced significantly reduced phenylpropene levels, whilst manipulation of the phenylpropanoid pathway using MdCHS (chalcone synthase) knockout and MdMYB10 over‐expression lines increased phenylpropene production. Transient expression of MdAAT1, MdoPhR5 and MdoOMT1 (O‐methyltransferase) genes reconstituted the apple pathway to estragole production in tobacco. AATs from ripe strawberry (SAAT1) and tomato (SlAAT1) fruit can also utilise p‐coumaryl and coniferyl alcohols, indicating that ripening‐related AATs are likely to link volatile ester and phenylpropene production in many different fruit.
Phylogenetic evidence for underreporting of male‐to‐male sex among human immunodeficiency virus–infected donors in the Netherlands and Flanders
Authors: van de Laar Thijs J. , Bezemer Daniela , van Laethem Kristel , Vandewalle Giovani , de Smet Annie , van Wijngaerden Eric , Claas Eric C. , van Sighem Ard I. , Vandamme Anne‐Mieke , Compernolle Veerle , Zaaijer Hans L.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND

Separate transmission networks for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coexist. Molecular typing of viral genomes can provide insight in HIV transmission routes in donors for whom risk behavior–based donor selection failed.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

This study includes all HIV‐infected Dutch and Flemish donors in the period 2005 to 2014 (n = 55). Part of the HIV polymerase (pol) gene was amplified, sequenced, and compared with more than 10,000 HIV strains obtained from HIV‐infected Dutch and Flemish patients. The most likely transmission route was determined based on HIV phylogeny and the donor's self‐reported risk behavior during the exit interview.

RESULTS

HIV‐infected donors were predominantly male (69%), were repeat donors (73%), were born in the Netherlands or Belgium (95%), and harbored HIV Subtype B (68%). Seventy‐five percent of HIV‐infected male donors were part of robust phylogenetic clusters linked to male‐to‐male sex, while only 24% of HIV‐infected male donors reported male‐to‐male sex during posttest counseling. Sex between men and women accounted for 13% of HIV infections in male donors and 93% of HIV infections in female donors based on phylogenetic analysis. Only 40% of HIV‐infected female donors had HIV Subtype B; 65% of female donors reported a foreign partner and indeed HIV sequences interspersed with sequences from HIV‐endemic areas abroad, in particular sub‐Saharan Africa.

CONCLUSION

HIV typing helps to understand HIV transmission routes in donor populations. We found substantial underreporting of male‐to‐male sex among HIV‐infected male donors. Donor education on HIV risk factors and the danger of window‐period donations and a donor environment that encourages frank disclosure of sexual behavior will contribute to a decrease of HIV‐infected donors.
Lack of consensus on consensual response
Authors: Stonex Tara M. , Bartoe Joshua T. , Aguirre Gustavo D.
Published: April 2017

The pupillary light reflex (PLR) is a routinely utilized clinical test to quickly assess integrity of subcortical light perception pathways in patients. While interpretation is simple for ophthalmologists, interestingly discrepancy occurs in annotation of the test results, especially for the consensual response. An email survey sent to diplomates of either the American or European Colleges of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO and ECVO, respectively), requesting use of a ‘direct/consensual’ annotation convention, showed 58% of respondents preferred one convention while 39% preferred a different convention. The majority preferred convention was different between ACVO and ECVO respondents. Standardization of PLR annotation convention across specialists is recommended for clarity in medical record keeping and communication among colleagues.
Identification and content validation of wound therapy clinical endpoints relevant to clinical practice and patient values for FDA approval. Part 1. Survey of the wound care community
Authors: Driver Vickie R. , Gould Lisa J. , Dotson Peggy , Gibbons Gary W. , Li William W. , Ennis William J. , Kirsner Robert S. , Eaglstein William H. , Bolton Laura L. , Carter Marissa J.
Published: April 2017

Wounds that exhibit delayed healing add extraordinary clinical, economic, and personal burdens to patients, as well as to increasing financial costs to health systems. New interventions designed to ease such burdens for patients with cancer, renal, or ophthalmologic conditions are often cleared for approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) using multiple endpoints but the requirement of complete healing as a primary endpoint for wound products impedes FDA clearance of interventions that can provide other clinical or patient‐centered benefits for persons with wounds. A multidisciplinary group of wound experts undertook an initiative, in collaboration with the FDA, to identify and content validate supporting FDA criteria for qualifying wound endpoints relevant to clinical practice (CP) and patient‐centered outcomes (PCO) as primary outcomes in clinical trials. As part of the initiative, a research study was conducted involving 628 multidisciplinary expert wound clinicians and researchers from 4 different groups: the interdisciplinary core advisory team; attendees of the Spring 2015 Symposium on Advanced Wound Care (SAWC); clinicians employed by a national network of specialty clinics focused on comprehensive wound care; and Association for the Advancement of Wound Care (AAWC) and Wound Healing Society (WHS) members who had not previously completed the survey. The online survey assessed 28 literature‐based wound care endpoints for their relevance and importance to clinical practice and clinical research. Fifteen of the endpoints were evaluated for their relevance to improving quality of life. Twenty‐two endpoints had content validity indexes (CVI) ≥ 0.75, and 15 were selected as meriting potential inclusion as additional endpoints for FDA approval of future wound care interventions. This study represents an important first step in identifying and validating new measurable wound care endpoints for clinical research and practice and for regulatory evaluation.
Explaining Individuals’ Behavior towards Their Acquisition of Students’ Loan in the US
Authors: Eric Asare , Eduardo Segarra
Published: April 2017

This study investigates the behavior of individuals in the US regarding the amount of student loans they might borrow with a two-part model. The model was estimated using the 2013 Survey of Consumer Finance (SCF) data, collected by the Governors of the Federal Reserve System, US, in collaboration with the Statistics and Income Division of the Internal Revenue Service, US. The sampling and imputation errors that are associated with the SCF data were accounted for in the model estimation process to ensure reliable inferences. Old age (41 years and older), previous experience with bankruptcy, attitude towards borrowing to finance education, being Hispanic, employment status, and wage salary were found to be significant variables that can influence the likelihood that a student will borrow a student loan and the amount he/she would borrow. This study also found out that using the SCF data without accounting for the inherent imputation and sampling errors, could lead to biased estimates and incorrect model inferences. The results of this study could help students’ loan managers and other relevant stakeholders such as the Federal Government understand the behavior of potential borrowers of student loans to effectively manage the program.
An increased extrasynaptic NMDA tone inhibits A‐type K+ current and increases excitability of hypothalamic neurosecretory neurons in hypertensive rats
Authors: Zhang Meng , Biancardi Vinicia C. , Stern Javier E.
Published: April 2017

Key points

A functional coupling between extrasynaptic NMDA receptors (eNMDARs) and the A‐type K+ current (IA) influences homeostatic firing responses of magnocellular neurosecretory cells (MNCs) to a physiological challenge. However, whether an altered eNMDAR–IA coupling also contributes to exacerbated MNC activity and neurohumoral activation during disease states is unknown.

We show that activation of eNMDARs by exogenously applied NMDA inhibited IA in MNCs obtained from sham, but not in MNCs from renovascular hypertensive (RVH) rats.

Neither the magnitude of the exogenously evoked NMDA current nor the expression of NMDAR subunits were altered in RVH rats.

Conversely, we found that a larger endogenous glutamate tone, which was not due to blunted glutamate transport activity, led to the sustained activation of eNMDARs that tonically inhibited IA, contributing in turn to higher firing activity in RVH rats.

Our studies show that exacerbated activation of eNMDARs by endogenous glutamate contributes to tonic inhibition of IA and enhanced MNC excitability in RVH rats.

We recently showed that a functional coupling between extrasynaptic NMDA receptors (eNMDARs) and the A‐type K+ current (IA) influences the firing activity of hypothalamic magnocellular neurosecretory neurons (MNCs), as well as homeostatic adaptive responses to a physiological challenge. Here, we aimed to determine whether changes in the eNMDAR–IA coupling also contributed to exacerbated MNC activity during disease states. We used a combination of patch‐clamp electrophysiology and real‐time PCR in MNCs in sham and renovascular hypertensive (RVH) rats. Activation of eNMDARs by exogenously applied NMDA inhibited IA in sham rats, but this effect was largely blunted in RVH rats. The blunted response was not due to changes in eNMDAR expression and/or function, since neither NMDA current magnitude or reversal potential, nor the levels of NR1‐NR2A–D subunit expression were altered in RVH rats. Conversely, we found a larger endogenous glutamate tone, resulting in the sustained activation of eNMDARs that tonically inhibited IA and contributed also to higher ongoing firing activity in RVH rats. The enhanced endogenous glutamate tone in RVH rats was not due to blunted glutamate transporter activity. Rather, a higher transporter activity was observed, which possibly acted as a compensatory mechanism in the face of the elevated endogenous tone. In summary, our studies indicate that an elevated endogenous glutamate tone results in an exacerbated activation of eNMDARs, which in turn contributes to diminished IA magnitude and increased firing activity of MNCs from hypertensive rats.
Antecedentes organizacionales y capacidades para la gestión sostenible de la cadena de suministros en economías emergentes: El caso de las firmas focales colombianas
Authors: Chacón Vargas Jairo Raúl , Moreno Mantilla Carlos Eduardo
Published: April 2017

Este artículo explora los antecedentes organizacionales y la implementación de prácticas de Gestión Sostenible de la Cadena de Suministro (GSCS) para una muestra de firmas focales en Colombia. Para tal efecto se utiliza un diseño de investigación cualitativa semi-estructurada. Este estudio contribuye al desarrollo de la teoría de la GSCS al aportar bases empíricas para entender la naturaleza de estas prácticas y el alcance de su implementación en un determinado contexto industrial, así como para determinar sus efectos en la competitividad de las firmas focales. Adicionalmente, los resultados principales sugieren que las responsabilidades ambientales y sociales son cuestiones cada vez más importantes para los accionistas de las firmas focales en economías emergentes
Small-Scale Smart Electrical Grid Design, Construction, and Analysis
Authors: Craig Andrew , Li Xiaokuan , Sesker Patrick , Mcinerny Alex , DeAgostino Thomas , Depcik Christopher
Published: April 2017

As society moves into the digital age, the expectation of instantaneous electricity at the flip of a switch is more prominent than ever. The traditional electric grid has become outdated and Smart Grids are being developed to deliver reliable and efficient energy to consumers. However, the costs involved with implementing their infrastructure often limits research to theoretical models.

As a result, an undergraduate capstone design team constructed a small-scale 12 VDC version to be used in conjunction with classroom and research activities. In this model Smart Grid, two houses act as residential consumers, an industrial building serves as a high-load demand device, and a lead-acid battery connected to a 120 VAC wall outlet simulates fossil fuel power plants. A smaller lead-acid battery provides a microgrid source while a photovoltaic solar panel adds renewable energy into the mix and can charge either lead-acid battery. All components are connected to a National Instruments CompactRIO system while being controlled and monitored via a LabVIEW software program. The resulting Smart Grid can run independently based on constraints related to energy demand, cost, efficiency, and environmental impact. Results are shown demonstrating choices based on these constraints, including a corresponding weighting according to controller objectives.