bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orexin‐1 receptors in the rostral ventromedial medulla are involved in the modulation of capsaicin evoked pulpal nociception and impairment of learning and memory
Authors: Shahsavari F. , Abbasnejad M. , Esmaeili‐Mahani S. , Raoof M.
Published: June 2018

Aim

To investigate the role of rostral ventromedial medulla orexin‐1 receptors in the modulation of orofacial nociception as well as nociception‐induced learning and memory impairment in adult male rats.

Methodology

Pulpal nociception was induced by intradental application of capsaicin (100 μg) into the incisors of rats. Orexin‐1 receptors agonist (orexin‐A, 10, 25 and 50 pmol L−1 rat−1) and antagonist (SB‐334867‐A, 40 and 80 nmol L−1 rat−1) were microinjected into the rostral ventromedial medulla prior to capsaicin administration. Total time spent on nocifensive behaviour was recorded by direct visualization of freely moving rats whilst learning and memory were evaluated by the Morris water maze test. One‐way analysis of variance and repeated‐measures were used for the statistical analysis.

Results

Capsaicin‐treated rats had a significant increase of nocifensive behaviours (P < 0.001), as well as learning and memory impairment (P < 0.001). However, intraventromedial medulla prior micro‐injection of orexin‐A (50 pmol L−1 rat−1) significantly reduced the nociceptive behaviour (P < 0.001). This effect was blocked by pre‐treatment with SB334867‐A (80 nmol L−1 rat−1). Orexin‐A (50 pmol L−1 rat−1) also inhibited nociception‐induced learning and memory deficits. Moreover, administration of SB‐334867‐A (80 nmol L−1 rat−1) plus orexin‐A (50 pmol L−1 rat−1) had no effect on learning and memory deficits induced by capsaicin.

Conclusions

The data suggest that rostral ventromedial medulla orexin‐A receptors are involved in pulpal nociceptive modulation and improvement of learning and memory deficits induced by intradental application of capsaicin.
Porphyromonas endodontalis reactivates latent Epstein–Barr virus
Authors: Makino K. , Takeichi O. , Imai K. , Inoue H. , Hatori K. , Himi K. , Saito I. , Ochiai K. , Ogiso B.
Published: June 2018

Aim

To determine whether Porphyromonas endodontalis can reactivate latent Epstein–Barr virus (EBV).

Methodology

The concentrations of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in P. endodontalis culture supernatants were determined using high‐performance liquid chromatography. A promoter region of BamHI fragment Z leftward open reading frame 1 (BZLF‐1), which is a transcription factor that controls the EBV lytic cycle, was cloned into luciferase expression vectors. Then, the luciferase assay was performed using P. endodontalis culture supernatants. Histone acetylation using Daudi cells treated with P. endodontalis culture supernatants was examined using Western blotting. BZLF‐1 mRNA and BamHI fragment Z EB replication activator (ZEBRA) protein were also detected quantitatively using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blotting. Surgically removed periapical granulomas were examined to detect P. endodontalis, EBV DNA, and BZLF‐1 mRNA expression using quantitative real‐time PCR. Statistical analysis using Steel tests was performed.

Results

The concentrations of n‐butyric acid in P. endodontalis culture supernatants were significantly higher than those of other SCFAs (P = 0.0173). Using B‐95‐8‐221 Luc cells treated with P. endodontalis culture supernatants, the luciferase assay demonstrated that P. endodontalis induced BZLF‐1 expression. Hyperacetylation of histones was also observed with the culture supernatants. BZLF‐1 mRNA and ZEBRA protein were expressed by Daudi cells in a dose‐dependent manner after the treatment with P. endodontalis culture supernatants. P. endodontalis and BZLF‐1 in periapical granulomas were also detected. The expression levels of BZLF‐1 mRNA were similar to the numbers of P. endodontalis cells in each specimen.

Conclusions

n‐butyric acid produced by P. endodontalis reactivated latent EBV.
A new nanofibrillated and hydrophobic grafted dietary fibre derived from bamboo leaves: enhanced physicochemical properties and real adsorption capacity of oil
Authors: Yan Jiai , Hu Jianxue , Yang Ruijin , Zhao Wei
Published: June 2018

Dietary fibre (DF) has been used for enhancing health benefits for centuries. In this study, an innovative nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC) was obtained by the combined application of high‐density steam flash‐explosion and enzymatic hydrolysis of bamboo leaves. The NFC prepared in this study was characterised by long, well‐defined and distinct NFC fibres, exhibiting excellent functional properties (water retention capacity: 20 g water g−1, swelling capacity: 97 mL g−1, oil‐holding capacity: 13 g oil g−1, and higher adsorption of bile acids and cholesterol). Octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) was further successfully grafted onto the NFC to improve its hydrophobicity. Thus, the oil‐holding capacity of the NFC reached 18.5 g oil g−1 and the adsorption of bile acids and cholesterol increased twofold. A gastrointestinal digestion experiment further showed that the nanofibrillated and hydrophobic grafted dietary fibre represented a high‐quality dietary supplement providing enhanced health benefits, highlighted by the strong ability to absorb oil. These results indicate that the OSA‐NFC has a great potential for use as a functional ingredient in food products.
Depression and young age impact on hip fracture subsequent to stroke: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Yeh Hui‐Fang , Hsu Yao‐Chun , Clinciu Daniel L. , Tung Heng‐Hsin , Yen Yung‐Chieh , Kuo Hung‐Chang
Published: June 2018

Aims

The purpose of this study is to identify whether depression and other associated factors in stroke are related to subsequent hip fracture.

Background

There are very few studies that focus on depression and demographic impact on subsequent hip fracture after a stroke.

Design

This a retrospective cohort study design.

Methods

The Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database between 1997 and 2010 was used. Two stroke patient cohorts were analysed: (1) depression within 1 year after newly diagnosed strokes; (2) without depression within 1 year after newly diagnosed strokes. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and hip fracture were compared using the Fine and Gray regression model for subdistribution hazard ratios.

Results/Findings

Patients with depression showed a higher risk of hip fracture (95% CI, 0.99‐1.66). Depression was associated with increased risk of hip fracture for patients below 50 years old (95% CI, 1.45‐7.34). Comorbidities and gender showed no significant correlation with hip fracture risk in the depressed or nondepressed groups.

Conclusion

Poststroke depression was a significant contributor to hip fracture in patients who suffered strokes and had more negative impact on the younger population, regardless of the gender and presence of comorbidities.
Primary care influenza‐like illness surveillance in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 2013‐2015
Authors: Todd Stacy , Huong Nguyen Thi Cam , Thanh Nguyen Thi Le , Vy Nguyen Ha Thao , Hung Nguyen Thanh , Thao Tran Thi Nhu , Phuong Huynh Thi , van Doorn Rogier , Hang Vu Thi Ty , Chau Nguyen Van Vinh , Read Jonathan M. , Lalloo David G. , Boni Maciej F.
Published: June 2018

Background

Year‐round transmission of influenza has been detected in Vietnam through both national surveillance and other epidemiological studies. Understanding the demographic and clinical features of influenza‐like illness (ILI) presenting to primary care in urban Vietnam is vital to understand these transmission dynamics.

Methods

An observational study of patients with ILI in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, was conducted between August 2013 and November 2015 in a mix of public and private primary care settings. Molecular testing for influenza A and influenza B and 12 other respiratory viruses was performed.

Results

A total of 1152 ILI patients were recruited. 322 and 136 subjects tested positive for influenza A and influenza B, respectively. 193 subjects tested positive for another respiratory virus; most commonly rhinovirus and parainfluenza virus 3. Influenza was detected in 81% of the 116 study weeks. Three peaks of influenza activity were detected; an H3N2 peak April‐June 2014, an influenza B peak July‐December 2014, and a mixed H3N2 and H1N1 peak March‐September 2015. Subjects recruited from private clinics were more likely to have higher income and to have reported previous influenza vaccination. Antibiotic use was common (50.3%) despite limited evidence of bacterial infection.

Conclusion

Influenza in southern Vietnam has complex transmission dynamics including periods of intense influenza activity of alternating types and subtypes. Broadening surveillance from hospital to the community in tropical settings is feasible and a valuable for improving our understanding of the global spread and evolution of the virus.
Clinical characteristics and severity of influenza infections by virus type, subtype, and lineage: A systematic literature review
Authors: Caini Saverio , Kroneman Madelon , Wiegers Therese , El Guerche‐Séblain Clotilde , Paget John
Published: June 2018

Aim

Studies carried out in the early 2000s found that the number of influenza‐associated hospitalizations and deaths was highest in seasons dominated by A(H3N2), suggesting that the clinical presentation and severity of influenza may differ across virus types, subtypes, and lineages. We aimed to review the studies that examined this hypothesis.

Method

We conducted a literature review of studies published until January 2017 that compared the clinical presentation, disease severity, and case‐fatality ratio of influenza patients infected with different virus types (A, B), subtypes (pre‐pandemic A(H1N1), A(H1N1)p, A(H3N2)), and lineages (Victoria, Yamagata).

Results

The literature search resulted in over 1700 entries: After applying in‐ and exclusion criteria, 47 studies were included in the literature review. Studies showed a wide diversity in setting and populations. Only a minority of studies provided results adjusted by patient's age and other potential confounders. There were very few differences in the clinical presentation of patients infected with different influenza viruses. We found weak evidence that the A(H1N1)p subtype in the post‐pandemic period was more often associated with secondary bacterial pneumonia, ICU admission, and death, than the other influenza virus (sub)types.

Conclusion

Contrary to what is commonly assumed, the causal virus subtype does not seem to be a major determinant of clinical presentation and severity of influenza illness. However, drawing conclusions was made difficult by the low comparability and methodological shortcomings of included studies, and more well‐designed studies are warranted.
Suppressing η‐phase development in steel‐cemented tungsten carbide: A spark plasma sintering study
Authors: Cahill James T. , Kelly James P. , Novitskaya Ekaterina , McKee Michael , Bahena Joel A. , Graeve Olivia A.
Published: June 2018

We describe the phase stability of a cemented tungsten carbide prepared using a high‐vanadium tool steel as the cementing/binder phase and confirm suppression of (Fe, W)6C η‐phase formation, attributed to the preferential formation of a V0.78W0.22C1−x phase that exists as islands within the Fe‐rich binder matrix. The samples were prepared using spark plasma sintering (SPS), starting from commercially available WC and A11‐LVC tool steel powders. The starting powders were ball milled adding 10, 15, and 20 vol.% steel. An A11‐LVC tool steel was chosen as a low‐cost hard steel (49 HRC) that does not contain Ni or Co but has a high vanadium (~9 wt.%) and carbon (~1.75 wt.%) content. Our results show that sintering by SPS can produce high‐density (>98%) WC‐steel specimens in which the matrix wets the WC grain surfaces and formation of the brittle η‐phase is avoided. The η phase is often regarded as embrittling and undesirable, and its presence can result in degradation of mechanical properties. Microhardness values for the WC‐10 and WC‐15 vol.% steel samples were 12.3 ± 1.2 and 13.0 ± 0.9 GPa, respectively, whereas the fracture toughness values were 8.83 ± 0.48 and 8.81 ± 0.61 MPa·m1/2, respectively.
Rapid synthesis of nanocrystalline YAG via microwave‐assisted solvothermal process
Authors: Ramanujam Prabhu , Vaidhyanathan Bala , Binner Jon , Ghanizadeh Shaghayegh , Zhou Zhaoxia , Spacie Chris
Published: June 2018

A rapid synthesis procedure for the preparation of nanocrystalline yttrium aluminium garnet (nYAG) particles has been developed, for the first time, using the combination of subcritical conditions and microwave irradiation. It is believed that the use of butanediol delayed the onset of pressure rise due to its low partial pressure, while the microwaves facilitated a selective crystallization of nanocrystalline YAG particles in the solvent medium. This methodology was found to encourage rapid bulk nucleation with minimal particle growth or agglomeration of nYAG particles. The resultant powder characteristics, examined using XRD and TEM analyses, revealed that a narrow window of pressure and temperature conditions needed to be maintained to achieve spherical particles in the size range 60‐80 nm without any intermediate phases being formed. The STEM/EDX and FTIR results obtained suggested that the nucleated YAG particles were masked by carbon clouds until they were completely crystallized into single phase YAG particles; this allowed them to be dispersed in water with little agglomeration.
Multiscale designed SiCf/Si3N4 composite for low and high frequency cooperative electromagnetic absorption
Authors: Zhou Qian , Yin Xiaowei , Ye Fang , Mo Ran , Liu Xiaofei , Fan Xiaomeng , Cheng Laifei , Zhang Litong
Published: June 2018

With the aim to design a particular material for low and high frequency cooperative electromagnetic absorption at high temperature, a multiscale design is proposed by combining the microstructure and meta‐structure in one material. The SiCf/Si3N4 composite is prepared via the chemical vapor infiltration technique with SiCf as the EM wave absorbing phase and Si3N4 as the wave‐transparent ceramic matrix. The crossing grooved meta‐structure is designed and fabricated to further improve its absorbing properties and to guarantee its absorbing capacity stability at high temperature. A minimum reflection loss of −15.3 dB and −14.8 dB can be reached at 8 and 18 GHz with a total thickness of 5 mm. The temperature‐dependent reflection loss of the designed meta‐structure keeps relative reliable high temperature absorbing performances from room temperature to 500°C. This effective enhanced EM wave absorbing property is believed to be a consequence of multiscale effect induced by combining the traditional EM absorbing materials with metamaterial structure.
Optoelectronic performances on different structures of Al‐doped ZnO
Authors: Liu Zhixiang , Yang Ping
Published: June 2018

ZnO films and Al‐doped ZnO (AZO) films were deposited on p‐Si substrate by magnetron sputtering to investigate its chemical composition, structural and photoelectric properties. XRD and FTIR show that Al ions can enter into the substitutional and interstitial site of ZnO crystal, and O atoms in AZO films are more abundant. Three different structures of Al‐doped ZnO (substitutional Al, interstitial Al, and O‐rich Al‐doped ZnO) were built using first‐principles method based on experimental results, charge density difference, and density of States (DOS) illustrate that there are strong ionic interactions between Al and O atoms in substitutional Al‐doped ZnO, moreover, substitutional and interstitial Al doping both are beneficial to N type, but oxygen‐enriched ZnO is not conducive to N type. Furthermore, the optical properties of 3 different Al‐doped ZnO structures were investigated respectively. Compared with pure ZnO, the real and imaginary part of dielectric function of O‐rich and interstitial Al have a significant increase and move to lower energy (red shift), the reflectivity of O‐rich is 3 times of pure ZnO and substitutional Al‐doped ZnO. The results are hoped to be helpful to study AZO thin film and predict the properties of Al‐doped ZnO.
Long‐term outcome of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation in patients with apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Chen Xuan , Dong Jian‐Zeng , Du Xin , Wu Jia‐Hui , Yu Rong‐Hui , Long De‐Yong , Ning Man , Sang Cai‐Hua , Jiang Chen‐Xi , Bai Rong , Wen Song‐Nan , Liu Nian , Li Song‐Nan , Xu Zhi‐Yuan , Ma Chang‐Sheng , Tang Ri‐Bo
Published: June 2018

Introduction

To assess the long‐term outcome of catheter ablation in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), especially in patients with apical HCM (ApHCM).

Methods and results

From 9,249 AF ablation cases, 97 patients (28 with ApHCM and 69 with non‐ApHCM) were enrolled. Another 97 patients matched by age, AF type, AF duration, and left atrial diameter were selected as the control group. After a mean follow‐up of (44.3 ± 29.6) months, success rate after a single procedure was 42.9% in the ApHCM patients (P  =  0.725), 36.2% in the non‐ApHCM patients (P  =  0.136) versus 50.5% in the control group. After multiple procedures, success rate both in the ApHCM group (50%, P  =  0.047) and in the non‐ApHCM group (50.4%, P  =  0.017) were lower than in the controls (68.0%). More patients in the ApHCM and in the non‐ApHCM group suffered very late recurrence beyond 1 year after the index procedure. Left atrial diameter (hazard ratio [HR] 1.04, 95% confidential interval [CI] 1.01–1.08, P  =  0.018) and AF duration (HR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00–1.01, P  =  0.005) were independent predictors of recurrence after the index ablation. There was no difference in thromboembolic events between the HCM group and the control group (8.2% vs. 3.1%, P  =  0.082).

Conclusions

Patients with ApHCM or non‐ApHCM had similar success rate of AF ablation after single procedure and lower success rate after multiple procedure compared with the control group.
First clinical use of novel ablation catheter incorporating local impedance data
Authors: Martin Claire A. , Martin Ruairidh , Gajendragadkar Parag R. , Maury Philippe , Takigawa Masateru , Cheniti Ghassen , Frontera Antonio , Kitamura Takeshi , Duchateau Josselin , Vlachos Konstantinos , Bourier Felix , Lam Anna , Lord Stephen , Murray Stephen , Shephard Ewen , Pambrun Thomas , Denis Arnaud , Derval Nicolas , Hocini Meleze , Haissaguerre Michel , Jais Pierre , Sacher Frederic
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Successful catheter ablation is limited by both poor spatial resolution of abnormal local signals and inability to deliver an effective lesion due to poor tissue contact. We report first worldwide use of the Intellanav MiFi OI catheter (Boston Scientific), providing ultra‐high density mapping and incorporating a “DirectSense” algorithm to measure local tissue impedance (LI).

Methods and results

31 patients (65±6 years, 20 male) underwent ablation. LI from the catheter, generator impedance (GI) and maximum electrogram amplitude were recorded in the blood pool, and in regions from healthy to dense scar before, during and after ablation. The catheter demonstrated clear nearfield signal where standard bipolar recordings included farfield signal. LI was lower in dense scar than either healthy tissue or blood pool, and demonstrated an exponential relationship with maximum electrogram amplitude.

Maximum LI drop on ablation linearly correlated with initial LI. The median LI drop for successful lesions, resulting in lack of local tissue capture, was 16.0Ω (12.1–19.8 Ω) for LV and 14.6 Ω (10.0–18.3 Ω) for LA, which was larger than for unsuccessful lesions (LV: 9.4 Ω [5.4–15.6 Ω] P = 0.001; LA: 6.8 Ω [4.7–13.0 Ω], P = 0.049). LI percentage drop was also significantly larger for successful than unsuccessful lesions (LV: 17.1 Ω [14.0–19.6 Ω] vs. 10.6 Ω (7.1–16.5 Ω) P = 0.002; LA: 14.2 Ω [10.8‐19.5 Ω] vs. 7.5Ω [5.1–11.0 Ω], P = 0.005).

Conclusion

This novel catheter gives reproducible recordings of local impedance, which are dependent on scar level. Absolute LI drop, and also percentage drop, on ablation may give an indication of tissue contact and subsequent effective lesion formation.
Fragmentation of QRS complex during ventricular pacing is associated with ventricular arrhythmic events in patients with left ventricular dysfunction
Authors: Del‐Carpio Munoz Freddy , Noseworthy Peter A. , Gharacholou S. Michael , Scott Christopher G. , Nkomo Vuyisile T. , Lopez‐Jimenez Francisco , Cha Yong‐Mei , Munger Thomas M. , Friedman Paul A. , Asirvatham Samuel J.
Published: June 2018

Background

QRS fragmentation (fQRS) during baseline ventricular conduction, a myocardial fibrosis marker, is associated with increased risk of ventricular tachyarrhythmias but may not manifest unless ventricular activation change is provoked. We examined the association of fQRS during right ventricular (RV) pacing with death and ventricular tachyarrhythmia in patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction undergoing electrophysiology study (EPS).

Methods and results

Study participants had LV dysfunction (ejection fraction < 50%) undergoing EPS from January 2002 to May 2014 at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. fQRS during RV stimulation involved >2 notches on R/S waves identified in ≥2 contiguous standard electrocardiographic leads representing anterior, inferior, or lateral ventricular segments. Primary outcomes were ventricular tachyarrhythmias that were symptomatic or required intervention and total and cardiac deaths. In all, 528 patients participated (mean age, 65 years; male sex, 80%). Of them, 312 (59%) had ischemic cardiomyopathy and mean (SD) left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 33.2% (9.5%); 457 (87%) had implantable cardiac devices (implanted defibrillator, n  =  380). Mean (SD) follow‐up was 3.2 (3.0) years. fQRS during RV pacing was observed in 292 patients (60%) in any ventricular segment. Patients with fQRS during RV pacing had 2.5 higher rate of ventricular tachyarrhythmia events than patients with no fQRS (hazard ratio [95% CI], 2.45 [1.5–4.2]; P < 0.01), after correcting for baseline ventricular conduction defect and QRS duration, LVEF, inducible sustained ventricular tachycardia, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and ischemic cardiomyopathy.

Conclusions

RV stimulation can unmask fQRS, and it is associated with increased risk of ventricular tachyarrhythmia in LV dysfunction.
Selective ablation of the ligament of Marshall attenuates atrial electrical remodeling in a short‐term rapid atrial pacing canine model
Authors: Yu Xiaomei , He Wenbo , Qin Zhiliang , Liu Shan , Ma Ruisong , Luo Da , Hu Huihui , Xie Jing , He Bo , Lu Zhibing , Jiang Hong
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Cardiac sympathetic activation facilitates atrial electrical remodeling during atrial fibrillation (AF). Selective ablation of the distal part of the ligament of Marshall (LOMLSPV) could decrease cardiac sympathetic innervation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of LOMLSPV ablation on atrial electrical remodeling in a short‐term rapid atrial pacing (RAP) model.

Methods

In 16 anesthetized dogs, 6 hours of RAP (20 Hz, 2 × threshold) was delivered before LOMLSPV ablation (group 1, N  =  8) or after (group 2, N  =  8). Heart rate variability (HRV), serum norepinephrine (NE), atrial electrophysiological indices were analyzed. Six times of burst pacing (20 Hz, 2 × threshold, lasting for 5 seconds, were performed to induce AF, the number of episodes and the duration of AF were compared.

Results

LOMLSPV ablation decreased sympathetic indices of HRV and serum NE. Atrial effective refractory period (ERP) was shortened during RAP in both groups with higher reduction degrees in group 1. In group 1, the shortening of atrial ERP, elevating of ERP dispersion and sum of window of vulnerability (ΣWOV), facilitating of AF induced by RAP were subsequently reversed by LOMLSPV ablation. In group 2, LOMLSPV ablation prolonged atrial ERP, decreased ΣWOV, eliminated AF induction. The subsequent RAP failed to alter these indices. Histological studies showed abundant sympathetic nerve fibers in LOMLSPV.

Conclusion

LOMLSPV ablation could inhibit atrial electrical remodeling during short‐term RAP by reducing the cardiac sympathetic activity. LOMLSPV may be a potential target in AF ablation, especially in patients with highly cardiac sympathetic activation or atrial electrical remodeling.
Evaluation of yeasts in gel larval diet for Queensland fruit fly, Bactrocera tryoni
Authors: Moadeli T. , Mainali B. , Ponton F. , Taylor P. W.
Published: June 2018

Queensland fruit fly, Bactrocera tryoni (“Q‐fly”), is Australia’s most economically important insect pest of horticultural and commercial crops especially in the eastern regions. The sterile insect technique (SIT) has been adopted as an environmentally benign and sustainable approach for management of Q‐fly outbreaks. High‐performance larval diets are required to produce the millions of flies needed each week for SIT. Yeast products contribute amino acids (protein) to fruit fly larval diets, as well as carbohydrate, fat and micronutrients, but there can be substantial variation in the nutritional composition and suitability of yeast products for use in larval diets. Gel larval diets have recently been developed for large‐scale rearing of Q‐fly for SIT, and composition of these diets requires optimization for both performance and cost, including choice of yeast products. We assessed performance of Q‐flies reared on gel larval diets that contained debittered brewer’s yeast (Lallemand LBI2240), hydrolysed yeast (Lallemand FNILS65), inactivated brewer’s yeast (Lallemand LBI2250) and inactivated torula yeast (Lallemand 2160‐50), including blends. Q‐flies performed poorly when reared on diets containing only or mostly hydrolysed yeast in terms of pupal number, pupal weight and percentage of fliers. Performance was also poor on diets containing high proportions of torula yeast. Overall, debittered brewer’s yeast is recommended as the best option for Q‐fly gel larval diet, as it is cheap, readily available, and produces flies with good performance in quality control assays. Inactivated brewer’s yeast produced flies of comparable quality with only a modest increase in cost and would also serve as an effective alternative.
Improved monitoring of oriental fruit moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) with terpinyl acetate plus acetic acid membrane lures
Authors: Mujica Valentina , Preti Michele , Basoalto Esteban , Cichon Liliana , Fuentes‐Contreras Eduardo , Barros‐Parada Wilson , Krawczyk Greg , Nunes Marcelo Z. , Walgenbach Jim F. , Hansen Randy , Knight Alan L.
Published: June 2018

Male and female moth catches of Grapholita molesta (Busck) in traps were evaluated in stone and pome fruit orchards untreated or treated with sex pheromones for mating disruption in Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, USA, and Italy from 2015 to 2017. Trials evaluated various blends loaded into either membrane cup lures or septa. Membrane lures were loaded with terpinyl acetate (TA), acetic acid (AA) and (Z)‐3‐hexenyl acetate alone or in combinations. Two septa lures were loaded with either the three‐component sex pheromone blend for G. molesta alone or in combination with codlemone (2‐PH), the sex pheromone of Cydia pomonella (L). A third septum lure included the combination sex pheromone blend plus pear ester, (E,Z)‐2,4‐ethyl decadienoate (2‐PH/PE), and a fourth septum was loaded with only β‐ocimene. Results were consistent across geographical areas showing that the addition of β‐ocimene or (Z)‐3‐hexenyl acetate did not increase moth catches. The addition of pear ester to the sex pheromone lure marginally increased moth catches. The use of TA and AA together significantly increased moth catches compared with the use of only one of the two components. Traps with the TA/AA lure outperformed the Ajar trap baited with a liquid TA plus sugar bait. The emission rate of AA was not a significant factor affecting the performance of the TA/AA lure. The addition of TA/AA significantly increased moth catches when combined with the 2‐PH lure. The TA/AA lure also allowed traps to catch both sexes. Catch of C. pomonella with the 2‐PH lure was comparable to the use of codlemone; however, moth catch was significantly reduced with the 2‐PH/PE lure. Optimization of these complex lures can likely further improve managers’ ability to monitor G. molesta and help to develop multispecies tortricid lures for use in individual traps.
Identification and expression analysis of chemosensory genes in the tea green leafhopper, Empoasca onukii Matsuda
Authors: Zhao Yunhe , Li Huan , Wang Qian , Liu Jingtao , Zhang Lixia , Mu Wei , Xu Yongyu , Zhang Zhengqun , Gu Shaohua
Published: June 2018

Tea green leafhopper, Empoasca onukii Matsuda, is one of the major dominant insect pests affecting tea plantations in Asia. Previous studies have demonstrated that E. onukii was significantly attracted by the tea volatiles and repelled by the non‐host plant volatiles. However, the olfactory mechanisms of insect perception of these semiochemicals are still unknown. Odorant‐binding proteins (OBPs) and chemosensory proteins (CSPs) are involved in the initial biochemical recognition steps in semiochemical perception. In this study, a total of 33 OBPs and 24 CSPs were identified in the antennae and body transcriptomes of E. onukii. Among them, 9 OBPs and 17 CSPs were newly identified. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted to compare OBPs and CSPs among Hemiptera insects. Semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR and real‐time quantitative PCR analysis revealed that 24 EonuOBP and 13 EonuCSP genes were mainly or uniquely expressed in the antennae. In addition, one OBP (EonuOBP49) and four CSPs (EonuCSP4, 7, 12 and 18) were more highly expressed in the body than in the antennae. Overall, the present work had provided foundational data to study the physiological roles of the OBPs and CSPs in the tea green leafhopper both in vitro and in vivo.
The Molecular Characterization and Immunity Identification of Rhoptry Protein 22 of Toxoplasma gondii as a DNA Vaccine Candidate Against Toxoplasmosis
Authors: Zhang Zhenchao , Li Yuhua , Xie Qing , Li Pengju , Nan Xiaoxu , Kong Lingmin , Zeng Dapeng , Ding Zhifang , Wang Shuai
Published: June 2018

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) rhoptry proteins (TgROPs) have been considered main targets and indicator molecules for immune diagnosis and prophylaxis since they initially present during the process of invasion. In this study, the effect of intramuscularly injecting the genetic vaccine pVAX‐ROP22 was evaluated, made by inserting the TgROP22 sequence into the eukaryotic expression vector of pVAX I, into BALB/c mice. The levels of IgG, IgG1, and IgG2a in pVAX‐ROP22 vaccinated animals were integrally increased. It was uncovered by cytokine profile analyses that the levels of IFN‐γ and IL‐2 were significantly increased, while no significant changes were detected in IL‐4 and IL‐10 levels. In addition, we found that immunization with pVAX‐ROP22 significantly prolonged the survival time (13.80 ± 1.75 d) of mice after challenge infection with the virulent T. gondii RH strain, in comparison with those of control animals (died within 10 d). Moreover, the number of brain cysts (1,406 ± 277) in the animals subjected to pVAX‐TgROP22 vaccination decreased remarkably (P < 0.05) compared with the blank control mice (2,333 ± 473), and the size of brain cysts in pVAX‐TgROP22 group was significantly smaller than the groups of blank, PBS and pVAXI. These results suggested that TgROP22 as DNA vaccine could trigger strong humoral and cellular responses and induce partial protection against toxoplasmosis.
Description of Armaparvus languidus n. gen. n. sp. Confirms Ultrastructural Unity of Cutosea (Amoebozoa, Evosea)
Authors: Schuler Gabriel A. , Brown Matthew W.
Published: June 2018

The American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) PRA‐29 isolate has a publicly available transcriptome, which has led to its inclusion in recent phylogenomic analyses. The ATCC PRA‐29 isolate was originally identified and deposited as “Pessonella sp.” This taxon branches robustly within the recently discovered clade Cutosea, very distantly related to the clade in which the genus Pessonella is believed to branch based on morphological data. Using detailed light and electron microscopy, we studied the morphology and ultrastructure of ATCC PRA‐29 as well as other cutosean amoebae to better elucidate the morphological affinity of ATCC PRA‐29 to other amoebozoans. Here, we show that ATCC PRA‐29 was misidentified by the original depositor as Pessonella and name it Armaparvus languidus n. gen. n. sp. We show that a cell coat of microscales separated from the cell membrane is a unique trait found in all known cutosean amoebae. As Cutosea represents a clade at the deepest bifurcation in the amoebozoan group Evosea and because this clade is currently taxon‐poor, but likely represents a major understudied group it will be important to isolate and describe more cutosean amoebae in the future.
Cost‐effectiveness of generic pan‐genotypic sofosbuvir/velpatasvir versus genotype‐dependent direct‐acting antivirals for hepatitis C treatment
Authors: Goel Amit , Chen Qiushi , Chhatwal Jagpreet , Aggarwal Rakesh
Published: June 2018

Background and Aim

Treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with low‐cost generic direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) available in India and other developing countries needs determination of HCV genotype (“genotype‐dependent” regimens). Generic velpatasvir, a DAA that obviates the need for genotype determination (“pan‐genotypic” regimen), recently became available but is costlier. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of genotype‐dependent versus pan‐genotypic DAA treatments in India.

Methods

A previously validated microsimulation model, adapted to Indian population, was used to compare the costs and long‐term outcomes of three scenarios: no treatment, treatment with genotype‐dependent regimens, and treatment with pan‐genotypic regimen. Input parameters were derived from literature. Using a payer's perspective and lifetime time horizon, quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs), total costs, and incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio were calculated. Both deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were also conducted.

Results

At the current price ($US223 for 4 weeks), pan‐genotypic regimen was cost‐saving compared with no treatment. Compared with genotype‐dependent regimens, it increased QALYs by 0.92 and increased costs by $US107 but was deemed cost‐effective with an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of $US242 per QALY gained. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis also supported the cost‐effectiveness of pan‐genotypic regimen. At the reduced price of $US188 for 4 weeks, the pan‐genotypic regimen will become cost‐neutral to genotype‐dependent regimens (current price: $US100 for 4 weeks).

Conclusions

At current prices, velpatasvir‐based pan‐genotypic regimen is cost‐effective for HCV treatment in India where generic drugs are available. A reduction in the prices of pan‐genotypic regimen has the potential to make its use cost‐saving while simplifying treatment in community‐level programs aimed at HCV elimination.
Plagioclase disequilibrium induced during fluid‐absent biotite‐breakdown melting in metapelites
Authors: Madlakana Nonkuselo , Stevens Gary
Published: June 2018

In the Bandelierkop Quarry (South Marginal Zone of the Limpopo belt), two generations of leucosome contain peritectic garnet produced by incongruent melting of biotite‐bearing assemblages, either in the presence or absence of sillimanite, respectively. This study focuses on mineral inclusions in large garnet crystals from both leucosome generations, which, in rare cases, host an abundance of euhedral plagioclase inclusions with variable compositions. Plagioclase in the residuum adjacent to the leucosomes ranges from An32to An39, while the euhedral plagioclase inclusions are considerably more calcic with compositions that range from An50to An83. These grains are also significantly zoned, with inclusions displaying both Na‐ and Ca‐enriched rims. Garnet zoning directly adjacent to the inclusions demonstrates that the Ca‐rich nature of the inclusions is not a consequence of Ca‐uptake from garnet. The euhedral plagioclase inclusions are interpreted to reflect disequilibrium during anatexis due to slow diffusion in plagioclase. Thus, the kinetic pathway followed by the incongruent melting reaction appears to be one where only the outer portions of the reactant plagioclase grains were involved, via dissolution, not diffusion, and with the precipitation of new Ca‐rich peritectic plagioclase as a consequence. This is predictable, as the coupled substitutions involved in plagioclase solid solution result in very slow intracrystalline diffusion of the major elements, while plagioclase dissolution in granitic melt is faster by several orders of magnitude. Phase equilibrium modelling demonstrates that the Ca‐content of the peritectic plagioclase is inversely proportional to the amount of plagioclase that participates in the fluid‐absent incongruent melting reaction in biotite‐bearing metapelites, with the specific compositions of the peritectic grains, reflecting local variations in effective bulk composition as the melting reaction progressed. The variation in composition and zoning patterns within plagioclase inclusions from individual garnet grains is interpreted to reflect melt segregation and flow simultaneously with garnet growth, allowing individual garnet grains to trap euhedral peritectic plagioclase grains that had formed within a range of effective bulk compositions. The preservation of this unusual garnet, which was most likely due to rapid and efficient melt loss from the residual source, as well as rapid cooling, provides a rare insight into the details of the anatectic process.
Use of a Model Wellness Policy May Not Increase the Strength and Comprehensiveness of Written School Wellness Policies
Authors: Eggert Erin , Overby Hilary , McCormack Lacey , Meendering Jessica
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND

Many state agencies have developed model wellness policies (MWPs) to serve as examples for schools when writing their own school wellness policy (SWP). The purpose of this study was to evaluate if a MWP aids schools in writing stronger, more comprehensive SWPs.

METHODS

For this cross‐sectional study, 91 school districts submitted their current SWP and completed a survey that classified districts into either districts that utilized the state MWP (N = 56; 61.5%) or those that did not (NMWP, N =35; 38.5%). The Wellness School Assessment Tool (WellSAT) was used to assess the strength, comprehensiveness, total overall score, and subsection scores of each policy. Dependent variables were compared between groups using t tests. Statistical significance was set at p ≤ .05. Data are presented as mean ±SD.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found between groups in total overall (MWP 76.8 ± 37.9; NMWP 62.1 ± 34.3), strength (MWP 25.3 ± 17.6; NMWP 19.1 ± 12.8), or comprehensiveness scores (MWP 51.5 ± 21.2; NMWP 43.0 ± 22.1). The only subsection score difference identified between groups was the Nutrition Standards comprehension score (p = .02).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest MWPs may not improve the quality of written SWPs. Further research is needed to better understand the needs of school districts in SWP development.
Socio‐economic composition of low‐acuity paediatric presentation at a regional hospital emergency department
Authors: Alele Faith O , Callander Emily J , Emeto Theophilus I , Mills Jane , Watt Kerrianne
Published: June 2018

Aim

Despite increasing rates of emergency department (ED) utilisation, little is known about low‐acuity presentations in children ≤5 years. The aims of the study were to estimate the proportion and cost of low‐acuity presentations in children ≤5 years presenting to the ED and to determine the relative effect of socio‐economic status (SES) on paediatric low‐acuity presentations at the ED.

Methods

This is a retrospective observational study of children ≤5 years presenting to the Cairns Hospital ED over 4 years. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to assess the association between SES and low‐acuity presentations. Cost of low‐acuity presentations was calculated based on triage score and admission status, using costs obtained from the National Hospital Cost Data Collection.

Results

A total of 23 086 children were included in the study, of whom 56.7% were male (mean age = 1.85 ± 1.63 years). Approximately one‐third of ED visits were low‐acuity presentations (32.4%), and low‐acuity presentations increased progressively with SES. In multivariate analysis, children from families with very high SES were twice as likely to have a low‐acuity presentation (odds ratio 2.17; 95% confidence interval, 1.66–2.85). Low‐acuity ED presentations cost the health‐care system in excess of A$895 000–A$1 110 000 per year.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that a significant proportion of paediatric ED visits are of low acuity and that these visits yield a substantial cost to the health system. Further research is required regarding care givers' rationale and potentially other reasons underlying these low‐acuity ED presentations.
No association between month of birth and biliary atresia in a country with tropical climate
Authors: Tanpowpong Pornthep , Lertudomphonwanit Chatmanee , Phuapradit Pornpimol , Treepongkaruna Suporn
Published: June 2018

Aim

Children with biliary atresia (BA) born in countries with temperate climate showed month‐of‐birth (MoB) predilection during cooler months. To date, no study on the MoB–BA association has been performed in a tropical country. Our aim was to define MoB variation in children with BA in a tropical country.

Methods

We studied 150 children diagnosed with BA between January 1996 and April 2015 at a teaching hospital. MoB was defined by two categories based on the precipitation: rain and dry, and three categories based on the air temperature: high, average and low. We applied the country's population data on the number of births in each period as the expected proportions of birth.

Results

A slightly higher proportion of BA children was born in the rainy months (52.7%); however, the difference was not significant compared to the general population's birth (P = 0.87). For the MoB based on the air temperature, no statistically significant difference was noted. Males with BA seemed to have a greater MoB variation compared to females, but this did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

We could not find an association between MoB and BA in a tropical country. Multinational studies may aid in understanding the MoB–BA association in the tropical countries.
Genetic and virulence variation in Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cepae causing root and basal rot of common onion in Iran
Authors: Nasr Esfahani Mehdi
Published: June 2018

Root and basal rot of common onion (Allium cepae L.) caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cepae is one of the most important diseases causing tremendous losses in onion‐growing areas worldwide. In this study, random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD), intersimple sequence repeats (ISSR) and virulence studies were conducted to analyse 26 F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae isolates obtained from the main onion‐growing regions of Iran, including Fars, Azerbaijan and Isfahan states. Cluster analysis using UPGMA method for both RAPD and ISSR markers revealed no clear grouping of the isolates obtained from different geographical regions, and the isolates were observed to derive probably from the same clonal lineage. Pathogenicity test indicated that all F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae isolates were pathogenic on onion; however, virulence variability was observed among the isolates. The grouping based on virulence variability was not correlated with the results of RAPD and ISSR analyses.
Guilt Signals a Crisis of Rejection: Two Types of Individual Differences Related to Social Rejection Have Dissimilar Effects on Guilt and Compensatory Behavior
Authors: Furukawa Yoshiya , Nakashima Ken'ichiro , Morinaga Yasuko
Published: June 2018

We investigated whether feelings of guilt, which signal crises in interpersonal relationships (Baumeister, Stillwell, & Heatherton, 1994), are differently evoked by two types of individual differences in social rejection: rejection detection capability (Kawamoto, Nittono, & Ura, 2015) and rejection sensitivity (Downey & Feldman, 1996). Using the hypothetical scenario method, we found that in situations with a potential risk of being rejected as a consequence of causing another person harm (i.e., harm‐present condition), participants with higher rejection detection capability felt more guilt and engaged in more compensatory behavior towards the victims. In addition, guilt mediated the relationship between rejection detection capability and compensatory behavior. Conversely, in situations with no potential risk of being rejected (i.e., harm‐absent condition), participants with higher rejection sensitivity felt more guilt but did not engage in much compensatory behavior. These results suggest that individual differences in social rejection foster different responses to specific threats.
L‐PRF for increasing the width of keratinized mucosa around implants: A split‐mouth, randomized, controlled pilot clinical trial
Authors: Temmerman A. , Cleeren G. J. , Castro A. B. , Teughels W. , Quirynen M.
Published: June 2018

Background

This study aims to evaluate the use of the leukocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin (L‐PRF) membranes in increasing the width of the keratinized mucosa (KM) around implants.

Material and methods

Eight patients in need for bilateral widening of the KM around implants in the lower jaw were recruited for a spit‐mouth randomized controlled trial. At the control site, a free gingival graft (FGG) was used, whereas at the other side (test), L‐PRF membranes were applied. The primary outcome was the increase in width of KM around the implants. As secondary outcomes, the postoperative pain and surgical time were assessed. The follow‐up period was 6 weeks.

Results

A significant increase in the total bucco‐lingual width of KM in both groups was observed, with 1.3 mm ± 0.9 extra gain (P < .05) for the FGG sites. Shrinkage of the widened areas in this period was 32.1% at the test site and 23.6% at the control site. All values of the postoperative pain scores at the control site were higher than at the test site. The mean surgery time in the test and control group was 29.1 ± 4.8 and 48.1 ± 7.7 minutes, respectively.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of this randomized controlled trial with split mouth design, it can be concluded that L‐PRF can increase the width of KM around implants. Furthermore, the use of L‐PRF results in a lower surgical time with less postoperative discomfort and pain for the patients in comparison to the FGG.