bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disaster preparedness among nurses: a systematic review of literature
Authors: Labrague L.J. , Hammad K. , Gloe D.S. , McEnroe‐Petitte D.M. , Fronda D.C. , Obeidat A.A. , Leocadio M.C. , Cayaban A.R. , Mirafuentes E.C.
Published: March 2017

Aim

This review explored peer‐reviewed publications that measure nurses’ preparedness for disaster response.

Background

The increasing frequency of disasters worldwide necessitates nurses to adequately prepare to respond to disasters to mitigate the negative consequences of the event on the affected population. Despite growing initiatives to prepare nurses for any disasters, evidence suggests they are under prepared for disaster response.

Methods

This is a systematic review of scientific articles conducted from 2006 to 2016 on nurses’ preparedness for disasters. SCOPUS, MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL and PsychINFO were the primary databases utilized for search of literature. Keywords used in this review were as follows: ‘emergency’, ‘disaster’, ‘disaster preparedness’, ‘disaster competencies’, ‘disaster nursing’, ‘disaster role’ and ‘nurse’. Seventeen (17) articles were selected for this review.

Findings

Factors that increase preparedness for disaster response include previous disaster response experience and disaster‐related training. However, it is widely reported that nurses are insufficiently prepared and do not feel confident responding effectively to disasters.

Conclusion

The findings of this review contribute to a growing body of knowledge regarding disaster preparedness in nurses and have implications for academia, hospital administration and nursing educators. The findings of this review provide evidence that could be used by nurse educators and nurse administrators to better prepare nurses for disaster response.

Implications for nursing and health policy

The findings from this review place an emphasis on hospitals to implement policies to address lack of preparedness among their employees. Furthermore, this review highlights the benefit of further research and provision of well‐grounded disaster exercises that mimic actual events to enhance the preparedness of the nursing workforce.
Higher education and sustainability in Thailand: a review of National Research University roles in sustainable agriculture education
Authors: Visetnoi Supawan , Nelles Wayne
Published: March 2017

The agricultural sector has played a significant role in Thailand's national economy and is a major source of income for many Thais. Yet globally, and for much of South East Asia, agriculture is one of the greatest contributors to environmental problems. At the same time there have been many debates about Thailand's unsustainable agricultural system and the role of education in addressing such concerns.

To illustrate broader issues and challenges this paper analyses related themes at an institutional level, while examining specific policies and concerns about sustainability among Thailand's nine government‐designated National Research Universities (NRUs). This paper reviews courses and programmes in sustainable agriculture (SA) offered by each NRU, research funding and budget allocations intended to contribute to sustainability and environmental awareness.

Also, this study employs SWOT analysis to demonstrate strengths and weaknesses of sustainability and education in Thai NRUs. The results of this study suggest that national education plans and policies on SA learning and research to support NRUs seem unclear and there is still a lack of comprehensive SA courses and programmes with solid support from most Thai universities and the government. This paper is a first step to systematically document and explain the state of higher education about and for sustainable agriculture reflected in policies and practices of Thai universities and their implications for national development.
A bibliometric analysis of the Journal of Advanced Nursing, 1976–2015
Authors: Železnik Danica , Blažun Vošner Helena , Kokol Peter
Published: March 2017

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the publication characteristics and development of Journal of Advanced Nursing during its 40‐year history.

Background

Bibliometric studies of single journals have been performed, but to the best of our knowledge, bibliometric analysis and bibliometric mapping have not yet been used to analyse the literature production of the Journal of Advanced Nursing.

Design/Method

Using descriptive bibliometrics, we studied the dynamics and trend patterns of literature production and identified document types and the most prolific authors, papers, institutions and countries. Bibliometric mapping was used to visualize the content of published articles and determine the most prolific research terms and themes published in Journal of Advanced Nursing and their evolution through time. We were also interested in determining whether there were any ‘Sleeping Beauties’ among the articles published in the journal.

Results

The study revealed a positive trend in literature production, although recently, the number of articles published in Journal of Advanced Nursing has slightly decreased. The most productive institutions are from the United Kingdom, which ranks in the highest place in terms of successful publishing in the journal. Thematic analysis showed that the most prolific themes corresponded to the basic aims and scope of the journal.

Conclusion

Journal of Advanced Nursing contributes to advances in nursing research, practice and education as well as the quality of health care, teamwork and family care, with an emphasis on knowledge transfer and partnership between various healthcare professionals.
Uric acid ameliorates indomethacin‐induced enteropathy in mice through its antioxidant activity
Authors: Yasutake Yuichi , Tomita Kengo , Higashiyama Masaaki , Furuhashi Hirotaka , Shirakabe Kazuhiko , Takajo Takeshi , Maruta Koji , Sato Hirokazu , Narimatsu Kazuyuki , Yoshikawa Kenichi , Okada Yoshikiyo , Kurihara Chie , Watanabe Chikako , Komoto Shunsuke , Nagao Shigeaki , Matsuo Hirotaka , Miura Soichiro , Hokari Ryota
Published: March 2017

Background and Aim

Uric acid is excreted from blood into the intestinal lumen, yet the roles of uric acid in intestinal diseases remain to be elucidated. The study aimed to determine whether uric acid could reduce end points associated with nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID)‐induced enteropathy.

Methods

A mouse model of NSAID‐induced enteropathy was generated by administering indomethacin intraperitoneally to 8‐week‐old male C57BL/6 mice, and then vehicle or uric acid was administered orally. A group of mice treated with indomethacin was also concurrently administered inosinic acid, a uric acid precursor, and potassium oxonate, an inhibitor of uric acid metabolism, intraperitoneally. For in vitro analysis, Caco‐2 cells treated with indomethacin were incubated in the presence or absence of uric acid.

Results

Oral administration of uric acid ameliorated NSAID‐induced enteropathy in mice even though serum uric acid levels did not increase. Intraperitoneal administration of inosinic acid and potassium oxonate significantly elevated serum uric acid levels and ameliorated NSAID‐induced enteropathy in mice. Both oral uric acid treatment and intraperitoneal treatment with inosinic acid and potassium oxonate significantly decreased lipid peroxidation in the ileum of mice with NSAID‐induced enteropathy. Treatment with uric acid protected Caco‐2 cells from indomethacin‐induced oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and cytotoxicity.

Conclusions

Uric acid within the intestinal lumen and in serum had a protective effect against NSAID‐induced enteropathy in mice, through its antioxidant activity. Uric acid could be a promising therapeutic target for NSAID‐induced enteropathy.
Brefeldin A sensitive mechanisms contribute to endocytotic membrane retrieval and vesicle recycling in cerebellar granule cells
Authors: Rampérez Alberto , Sánchez‐Prieto José , Torres Magdalena
Published: March 2017

The recycling of synaptic vesicle (SV) proteins and transmitter release occur at multiple sites along the axon. These processes are sensitive to inhibition of the small GTP binding protein ARF1, which regulates the adaptor protein 1 and 3 complex (AP‐1/AP‐3). As the axon matures, SV recycling becomes restricted to the presynaptic bouton, and its machinery undergoes a complex process of maturation. We used the styryl dye FM1‐43 to highlight differences in the efficiency of membrane recycling at different sites in cerebellar granule cells cultured for 7 days in vitro. We used Brefeldin A (BFA) to inhibit AP‐1/AP‐3‐mediated recycling and to test the contribution of this pathway to the heterogeneity of the responses when these cells are strongly stimulated. Combining imaging techniques and ultrastructural analyses, we found a significant decrease in the density of functional boutons and an increase in the presence of endosome‐like structures within the boutons of cells incubated with BFA prior to FM1‐43 loading. Such effects were not observed when BFA was added 5 min after the end of the loading step, when endocytosis was almost fully completed. In this situation, vesicles were found closer to the active zone (AZ) in boutons exposed to BFA. Together, these data suggest that the AP‐1/AP‐3 pathway contributes to SV recycling, affecting different steps in all boutons but not equally, and thus being partly responsible for the heterogeneity of the different recycling efficiencies.

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Cover Image for this issue: doi. 10.1111/jnc.13801.
CRIP1a inhibits endocytosis of G‐protein coupled receptors activated by endocannabinoids and glutamate by a common molecular mechanism
Authors: Mascia Fabrizio , Klotz Lisa , Lerch Judith , Ahmed Mostafa H. , Zhang Yan , Enz Ralf
Published: March 2017

The excitability of the central nervous system depends largely on the surface density of neurotransmitter receptors. The endocannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R) and the metabotropic glutamate receptor mGlu8R are expressed pre‐synaptically where they reduce glutamate release into the synaptic cleft. Recently, the CB1R interacting protein cannabinoid receptor interacting protein 1a (CRIP1a) was identified and characterized to regulate CB1R activity in neurons. However, underlying molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. Here, we identified a common mechanism used by CRIP1a to regulate the cell surface density of two different types of G‐protein coupled receptors, CB1R and mGlu8aR. Five amino acids within the CB1R C‐terminus were required and sufficient to reduce constitutive CB1R endocytosis by about 72% in the presence of CRIP1a. Interestingly, a similar sequence is present in mGlu8aR and consistently, endocytosis of mGlu8aR depended on CRIP1a, as well. Docking analysis and molecular dynamics simulations identified a conserved serine in CB1R (S468) and mGlu8aR (S894) that forms a hydrogen bond with the peptide backbone of CRIP1a at position R82. In contrast to mGlu8aR, the closely related mGlu8bR splice‐variant carries a lysine (K894) at this position, and indeed, mGlu8bR endocytosis was not affected by CRIP1a. Chimeric constructs between CB1R, mGlu8aR, and mGlu8bR underline the role of the identified five CRIP1a sensitive amino acids. In summary, we suggest that CRIP1a negatively regulates endocytosis of two different G‐protein coupled receptor types, CB1R and mGlu8aR.

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Contributing factors for therapeutic diet adherence in patients receiving haemodialysis treatment: an integrative review
Authors: Oquendo Lissete González , Asencio José Miguel Morales , de las Nieves Candela Bonill
Published: March 2017

Aims and objectives

The objective of this integrative review is to identify the factors that contribute to diet adherence in people suffering from kidney disease who are receiving haemodialysis treatment.

Background

Adherence to the therapeutic regimen determines therapeutic success, quality of life and survival in patients on haemodialysis. Lack of diet adherence ranges from 25%–86% in patients receiving haemodialysis treatment and affects patient morbidity and mortality.

Design

An integrative literature review was conducted based on the criteria of Whittemore & Knafl.

Methods

A literature review was performed by two members of the team using twelve databases including PubMed, CUIDEN, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library and ScienceDirect.

Results

The main issues identified after analysing the results were as follows: the intrinsic barriers (age, dialysis time, motivation, perceived benefit, distorted perception of adherence) and facilitators (self‐efficacy, perception of disease, perception of control), extrinsic barriers (family dysfunction, lack of social support, cultural patterns of consumption of food) and facilitators (social support, relationship with healthcare providers), and interventions to encourage diet adherence, such as the use of motivational interviewing in educational interventions, and the training and education of relevant professionals in communication skills.

Conclusions

Diet nonadherence remains a serious health problem and suffers from a lack of solid criteria to identify this condition. The onset of depression signs and the level of social support available to the patient should be assessed, because these are important factors that determine adherence to treatment.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Professionals should be trained in health education and communication techniques to contribute to the patient's self‐management and motivation for diet adherence. Controlled and randomised clinical studies involving predialysis stages should be performed to investigate the impact of the assessment and control of barriers to diet adherence.
Reference gene selection for reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction in chicken hypothalamus under different feeding status
Authors: Simon Á. , Jávor A. , Bai P. , Oláh J. , Czeglédi L.
Published: March 2017

This study was designed to investigate the stability of 10 candidate reference genes, namely ACTB, B2M, GAPDH, HMBS, LBR, POLR2B, RN18S, RPS17, TBP, and YWHAZ for the normalization of gene expression data obtained by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in studies related to feed intake of chicken. Samples were isolated from hypothalamus under three different nutritional status (ad libitum, fasted for 24 hr, fasted for 24 hr then refed for 2 hr). Five different algorithms were applied for the analysis of reference gene stability: BestKeeper, geNorm, NormFinder, the comparative ΔCt method, and a novel approach using multivariate linear mixed‐effects modelling for stable reference gene selection. TBP and POLR2B were identified as the two most suitable and B2M and RN18S as the two least stable reference genes for normalization. Despite our review, the current literature showing that RN18S is one of the most commonly used reference gene in chicken gene expression studies, its applicability for normalization should be evaluated before each qPCR experiment.
Vasoactive effect of fibronectin‐derived epiviosamine‐1 and related peptides in quiescent and stress models
Authors: Frame Mary D. , Lin Fubao , Dewar Anthony M. , Clark Richard A. F.
Published: March 2017

Objective

Following thermal burn injury, plasma fibronectin degrades within the interstitium; one possible product is EVA‐1, PSHISKYILRWRPK found within the FNIII1. EVA‐1 ameliorates thermal burn injury progression, and binds to and enhances PDGF‐BB in promoting cell metabolism, growth and survival; shorter related peptides lose these abilities. Here we study the effect of EVA‐1 and shorter peptides for their vasoactivity under quiescent and stress conditions.

Methods

Using the hamster cheek pouch intravital microscopy model, five EVA‐1 related peptides were applied to small arterioles via micropipette (10−16‐10−4mol L−1) in quiescent tissue and after defined stress: nitric oxide or heat.

Results

Peak dilation occurred with nanomolar doses (longer peptides) or below (shorter peptides), blocked by propranolol (beta‐adrenergic receptor antagonist). Micromolar doses of the same peptides induced only constriction, not antagonized by phentolamine (alpha‐adrenergic receptor antagonist). Scrambled variants of two peptides yielded only constriction, suggesting constriction might be due peptide charge. Each stressor caused a left shift in dilation response, blocked by carazolol.

Conclusions

Thus, this important region of FNIII1 contains sequences that have a gradation of biological functions dependent on the length of the peptide sequence, with increased efficacy for dilation following stressors.
Lymphomatosis cerebri showing transient spontaneous regression
Authors: Inamasu Joji , Nishimoto Masaaki , Kitamura Yohei , Mayanagi Keita , Nakatsukasa Masashi , Yoshii Masami , Oshima Takeo , Tomiyasu Kazuhiro
Published: March 2017

We describe the case of a 35‐year‐old man who presented with a seizure. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed multiple white matter lesions in the cerebral hemispheres. His seizure was controllable with antiepileptics, and he remained asymptomatic for the next 4 months with follow‐up magnetic resonance imaging showing transient spontaneous regression. However, he developed progressive decline in cognitive functions approximately 1 year after symptom onset. Magnetic resonance imaging showed recurrence of the white matter lesions and progression of brain atrophy. A brain biopsy established the pathological diagnosis of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, and he was clinically diagnosed with lymphomatosis cerebri. Lymphomatosis cerebri is a rare variant of primary central nervous system lymphoma characterized by diffuse infiltration of lymphomatous cells into the brain without forming a cohesive tumor mass. Although the clinical and radiographic course is rapidly progressive in the great majority of patients with lymphomatosis cerebri, transient spontaneous regression can occur, posing diagnostic challenges for physicians.
Timing of diapause termination in relation to variation in winter climate
Authors: Lehmann Philipp , Van Der Bijl Wouter , Nylin Sören , Wheat Christopher W. , Gotthard Karl
Published: March 2017

In temperate insects, winters are typically endured by entering diapause, which comprises a deep resting stage. Correct timing of diapause termination is vital for synchronization of emergence with conspecifics and for mobilizing resources when conditions for growth and reproduction become favourable. Although critical to survival, the intrinsic and extrinsic drivers of diapause termination timing are poorly understood. In the present study, we investigate diapause development under a range of durations (10–24 weeks) spent at different temperatures (−2 to 10 °C) in the pupal diapausing butterfly Pieris napi Linnaeus (Lepidoptera:Pieridae). We determine: (i) the maximum cold temperature for diapause development; (ii) if pupae in diapause count cold days or cold sums; and (iii) whether diapause termination is distinct or gradual. The results indicate large and idiosyncratic effects of high and low nonlethal temperatures on diapause development in P. napi. Although all temperatures tested lead to diapause termination, a thermal optimum between 2 and 4 °C is observed. Lower temperatures lead to decreased eclosion propensity, whereas higher temperatures slow down development and increase emergence desynchronization. These data suggest that, rather than a simple cold‐summing process with a distinct diapause termination point, there are trade‐offs between time and temperature at the low and high end of the thermal range, resulting in a nonlinear thermal landscape showing a ridge of increasing eclosion propensity at moderate temperatures. The present study suggests that the effects of temperature on diapause development should be included in projections on post‐winter phenology models of insects, including pest species.
Photochemical Immobilization of Polymers on a Surface: Controlling Film Thickness and Wettability
Authors: Carroll Gregory T. , Turro Nicholas J. , Mammana Angela , Koberstein Jeffrey T.
Published: March 2017

In this manuscript, we demonstrate the control of film thickness and surface wettability in the photochemical immobilization of poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) to a self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) containing a phthalimide chromophore. Surface attachment is characterized by ellipsometry and contact angle measurements. The wettability of the resulting films is shown to depend on the chemical composition of the polymer. The film thickness is shown to depend on the irradiation time and molecular weight of the polymer. Using a photomask, micropatterns of polymers can be grafted to the SAM. The photopatterned surface can be “developed” by coating with a thin layer of a mixture containing poly (styrene) (PS) and triphenylsulfonium triflate.
Frontal EEG asymmetry during symptom provocation predicts subjective responses to intrusions in survivors with and without PTSD
Authors: Meyer Thomas , Quaedflieg Conny W. E. M. , Weijland Kim , Schruers Koen , Merckelbach Harald , Smeets Tom
Published: March 2017

Studies suggest that frontal alpha asymmetry is closely linked to psychological adjustment following stressful experiences, such that more left‐sided frontal activation during symptom provocation might predict lower levels of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Here, we tested whether frontal asymmetry at rest and during exposure to neutral, positive, negative, and trauma‐related images would be associated with PTSD, and particularly with characteristic reexperiencing symptoms. Symptoms were assessed in trauma victims with (n = 24) and without PTSD (n = 15), using both retrospective measures and 1‐week ambulatory assessments with a diary and a smartphone. While resting frontal asymmetry was unrelated to all retrospective measures, left‐sided activation in response to the negative picture correlated with lower levels of psychopathology. Left‐sided activation in the trauma‐related picture condition was more specifically associated with less emotionally intense intrusions and responses to viewing the picture, even when corrected for other symptoms of psychopathology. These effects tended to increase when participants with possible overreporting tendencies were removed from the analyses. Moreover, trauma victims without PTSD (i.e., relatively more resilient individuals) displayed higher left‐sided frontal activation in response to the negative picture, also when compared with a third group of healthy, trauma‐free individuals (n = 15). Our findings suggest that state‐dependent changes in frontal asymmetry could serve as a biological marker of PTSD symptoms and could eventually be used for diagnostic purposes or as a target for neuromodulation interventions. Future studies should establish whether this marker can serve as an early predictor of psychopathology in recently traumatized individuals.
Cardiac troponin T as a predictor of short‐ and long‐term mortality in community‐acquired pneumonia
Authors: Feldman Charles , Anderson Ronald
Published: March 2017

See article, page 1000
Plasticity and innovation of regulatory mechanisms underlying seed oil content mediated by duplicated genes in the palaeopolyploid soybean
Authors: Zhang Dajian , Zhao Meixia , Li Shuai , Sun Lianjun , Wang Weidong , Cai Chunmei , Dierking Emily C. , Ma Jianxin
Published: March 2017

Many plants have undergone whole genome duplication (WGD). However, how regulatory networks underlying a particular trait are reshaped in polyploids has not been experimentally investigated. Here we show that the regulatory pathways modulating seed oil content, which involve WRINKLED1 (WRI1), LEAFY COTYLEDON1 (LEC1), and LEC2 in Arabidopsis, have been modified in the palaeopolyploid soybean. Such modifications include functional reduction of GmWRI1b of the GmWRI1a/GmWRI1b homoeologous pair relevant to WRI1, complementary non‐allelic dosage effects of the GmLEC1a/GmLEC1b homoeologous pair relevant to LEC1, pseudogenization of the singleton GmLEC2 relevant to LEC2, and the rise of the LEC2‐like function of GmABI3b, contrasting to its homoeolog GmABI3a, which maintains the ABSCISIC ACID INSENSITIVE 3 (ABI3)‐like function in modulating seed maturation and dormancy. The function of GmABI3b in modulating seed oil biosynthesis was fulfilled by direct binding to a RY (CATGCA) cis‐regulatory element in the GmWRI1a promoter, which was absent in the GmWRI1b promoter, resulting in reduction of the GmWRI1b expression. Nevertheless, the three regulators each exhibited similar intensities of purifying selection to their respective duplicates since these pairs were formed by a WGD event that is proposed to have occurred approximately 13 million years ago (mya), suggesting that the differentiation in spatiotemporal expression between the duplicated genes is more likely to be the outcome of neutral variation in regulatory sequences. This study thus exemplifies the plasticity, dynamics, and novelty of regulatory networks mediated by WGD.
Exophthalmos due to sterile neutrophilic dermatosis in a dog
Authors: Sharpe Emily K. , Meekins Jessica M. , Bagladi‐Swanson Mary , Rankin Amy J.
Published: March 2017

An 8‐year‐old castrated male Bichon Frise was presented to the Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center for evaluation of unilateral right‐sided exophthalmos, suspected secondary to a retrobulbar abscess. The dog had acutely developed right‐sided periorbital swelling, exophthalmos with pain on retropulsion, as well as multiple cutaneous exudative plaques on the feet and tail base. On ophthalmic examination, the dog also exhibited mild left‐sided exophthalmos with decreased, nonpainful retropulsion. Orbital ultrasound and CT were performed to evaluate the extent of bilateral orbital disease. Incisional biopsies were obtained from the affected right periorbital tissues and skin of the feet, and histopathology revealed severe neutrophilic inflammation of the dermis with no organisms detected. Histologic changes were consistent with sterile neutrophilic dermatosis. The dog achieved clinical remission following treatment with initial immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids and subsequent long‐term maintenance therapy using oral cyclosporine.
Assembly of Heterogeneous Materials for Biology and Electronics: From Bio-Inspiration to Bio-Integration
Authors: Gao Yuyan , Cheng Huanyu
Published: March 2017

Specific function or application in electronics often requires assembly of heterogeneous materials in a single system. Schemes to achieve such goals are of critical importance for applications ranging from the study in basic cell biology to multifunctional electronics for diagnostics/therapeutics. In this review article, we will first briefly introduce a few assembly techniques, such as microrobotic assembly, guided self-assembly, additive manufacturing, and transfer printing. Among various heterogeneous assembly techniques, transfer printing represents a simple yet versatile tool to integrate vastly different materials or structures in a single system. By utilizing such technique, traditionally challenging tasks have been enabled and they include novel experimental platforms for study of two-dimensional (2D) materials and cells, bio-integrated electronics such as stretchable and biodegradable devices, and three-dimensional (3D) assembly with advanced materials such as semiconductors.
Many shades of gray—The context-dependent performance of organic agriculture
Authors: Seufert Verena , Ramankutty Navin
Published: March 2017

The performance of organic agriculture includes some benefits, some costs, and many uncertainties.
Gamete fusion gone viral
Authors: Miner Jonathan J.
Published: March 2017

Enveloped virus infection may be linked to the origin of sexual reproduction.
Biogeography of a Novel Ensifer meliloti Clade Associated with the Australian Legume Trigonella suavissima
Authors: Eardly Bertrand , Elia Patrick , Brockwell John , Golemboski Daniel , van Berkum Peter
Published: March 2017

Here, we describe a novel clade withinEnsifer melilotiand consider how geographic and ecological isolation contributed to the limited distribution of this group. Members of the genusEnsiferare best known for their ability to form nitrogen-fixing symbioses with forage legumes of three related genera,MedicagoL.,MelilotusMill., andTrigonellaL., which are members of the tribe Trifolieae. These legumes have a natural distribution extending from the Mediterranean Basin through western Asia, where there is an unsurpassed number of species belonging to these genera.Trigonella suavissimaL. is unusual in that it is the only species in the tribe Trifolieae that is native to Australia. We compared the genetic diversity and taxonomic placement of rhizobia nodulatingT. suavissimawith those of members of anEnsiferreference collection. Our goal was to determine if theT. suavissimarhizobial strains, like their plant host, are naturally limited to the Australian continent. We used multilocus sequence analysis to estimate the genetic relatedness of 56T. suavissimasymbionts to 28Ensiferreference strains. Sequence data were partitioned according to the replicons in which the loci are located. The results were used to construct replicon-specific phylogenetic trees. In both the chromosomal and chromid trees, the Australian strains formed a distinct clade withinE. meliloti. The strains also shared few alleles withEnsiferreference strains from other continents. Carbon source utilization assays revealed that the strains are also unusual in their ability to utilize 2-oxoglutarate as a sole carbon source. A strategy was outlined for locating similar strains elsewhere.

IMPORTANCEIn this study, we employed a biogeographical approach to investigate the origins of a symbiotic relationship between an Australian legume and its nitrogen-fixing rhizobia. The question of the ancestral origins of these symbionts is based on the observation that the legume host is not closely related to other native Australian legumes. Previous research has shown that the legume hostTrigonella suavissimais instead closely related to legumes native to the Mediterranean Basin and western Asia, suggesting that it may have been introduced in Australia from those regions. This led to the question of whether its rhizobia may have been introduced as well. In this study, we were unable to find persuasive evidence supporting this hypothesis. Instead, our results suggest either that theT. suavissimarhizobia are native to Australia or that our methods for locating their close relatives elsewhere are inadequate. A strategy to investigate the latter alternative is proposed.
Obesity paradox and mortality in adults with and without incident type 2 diabetes: a matched population-level cohort study
Authors: Badrick Ellena , Sperrin Matthew , Buchan Iain E , Renehan Andrew G
Published: March 2017

Objective

Among adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D), several (but not all) studies show that being overweight (body mass index (BMI): 25.0–29.9 kg/m2) or obese I (BMI: 30.0–34.9 kg/m2) near the time of diagnosis, is unexpectedly associated with reduced all-cause mortality compared with normal weight—the obesity paradox. We addressed whether this observation is causal (eg, a true protective effect); due to confounding (including effect modification); or due to selection (‘collider’) bias.

Research design and methods

We performed a matched population-level cohort study using primary care records from Salford, UK (1995–2012) in 10 464 patients with incident T2D paired (1:3) with 31 020 individuals who never developed T2D. We estimated HRs for associations of BMI with all-cause mortality using Cox models, stratified by smoking status.

Results

Median follow-up was 8.7 years. For never smokers, the hazard of all-cause mortality increased from 25 kg/m2, in a linear manner, with increasing BMI in the T2D cohort (HR per 5 kg/m2: 1.23, ptrend<0.001) and in the non-diabetes cohort (HR per 5 kg/m2: 1.34, ptrend<0.001). In contrast, among ever smokers, BMI-mortality relationships were U-shaped in the T2D and non-diabetes cohorts. Evidence of the obesity paradox in ever smokers, with and without T2D, argued against a selection bias, but supported a contribution of effect modification by smoking (pinteraction=0.009). Results were stable to various sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

In this cohort, the obesity paradox is mainly explained by smoking as an effect modifier. These findings indicate that the obesity paradox does not challenge standard weight management recommendations among T2D patients.
Tracheal chondrosarcoma with overlying inflammatory polyp in a dog
Authors: Muller Carrie L , Durrant Jessica , Petrovitch Nicholas , Shive Heather , Scharf Valery
Published: March 2017

A nine‐year‐old male neutered goldendoodle was presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH) for further evaluation of a tracheal mass. Initially, it was evaluated by an internal medicine specialist for episodes of dyspnoea. A bronchoscopy was performed, which identified a tracheal mass. A bronchoscopic biopsy of the mass was obtained, with histopathology indicating an inflammatory polyp. The dog was then referred to the VTH for surgical excision. On presentation, a CT scan and a second bronchoscopic biopsy were performed, which revealed histological features consistent with an inflammatory polyp. Based on the patient’s clinical signs and the appearance of the mass on CT, a tracheal resection and anastomosis was recommended. Histopathology of the excised mass was consistent with a tracheal chondrosarcoma that had been overlain with an inflammatory polyp. To the authors’ knowledge, the following is the first report of a tracheal polyp overlying a chondrosarcoma, which was diagnosed twice as an inflammatory polyp via bronchoscopic biopsies.
Loss of lung WWOX expression causes neutrophilic inflammation
Authors: Singla Sunit , Chen Jiwang , Sethuraman Shruthi , Sysol Justin R. , Gampa Amulya , Zhao Shuangping , Machado Roberto F.
Published: March 2017

The tumor suppressor WW domain-containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) exhibits regulatory interactions with an array of transcription factors and signaling molecules that are positioned at the well-known crossroads between inflammation and cancer. WWOX is also subject to downregulation by genotoxic environmental exposures, making it of potential interest to the study of lung pathobiology. Knockdown of lung WWOX expression in mice was observed to cause neutrophil influx and was accompanied by a corresponding vascular leak and inflammatory cytokine production. In cultured human alveolar epithelial cells, loss of WWOX expression resulted in increased c-Jun- and IL-8-dependent neutrophil chemotaxis toward cell monolayers. WWOX was observed to directly interact with c-Jun in these cells, and its absence resulted in increased nuclear translocation of c-Jun. Finally, inhibition of the c-Jun-activating kinase JNK abrogated the lung neutrophil influx observed during WWOX knockdown in mice. Altogether, these observations represent a novel mechanism of pulmonary neutrophil influx that is highly relevant to the pathobiology and potential treatment of a number of different lung inflammatory conditions.
A FastSLAM Algorithm Based on Nonlinear Adaptive Square Root Unscented Kalman Filter
Authors: Zhang Yu-feng , Zhou Qi-xun , Zhang Ju-zhong , Jiang Yi , Wang Kai
Published: March 2017

For fast simultaneous localization and mapping (FastSLAM) problem, to solve the problems of particle degradation, the error introduced by linearization and inconsistency of traditional algorithm, an improved algorithm is described in the paper. In order to improve the accuracy and reliability of algorithm which is applied in the system with lower measurement frequency, a new decomposition strategy is adopted for a posteriori estimation. In proposed decomposition strategy, the problem of solving a 3‐dimensional state vector and N 2‐dimensional state vectors in traditional FastSLAM algorithm is transformed to the problem of solving N 5‐dimensional state vectors. Furthermore, a nonlinear adaptive square root unscented Kalman filter (NASRUKF) is used to replace the particle filter and Kalman filter employed by traditional algorithm to reduce the model linearization error and avoid solving Jacobian matrices. Finally, the proposed algorithm is experimentally verified by vehicle in indoor environment. The results prove that the positioning accuracy of proposed FastSLAM algorithm is less than 1 cm and the azimuth angle error is 0.5 degrees.
Carvedilol Attenuates the Progression of Hepatic Fibrosis Induced by Bile Duct Ligation
Authors: Tian Xiaopeng , Zhao Chunhong , Guo Jinbo , Xie Shurui , Yin Fengrong , Huo Xiaoxia , Zhang Xiaolan
Published: March 2017

Background.The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is responsible for hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) activation and the accumulation of collagen that occurs in hepatic fibrogenesis. Carvedilol has been widely used for the complication of hepatic cirrhosis in the clinic. Furthermore, it has powerful antioxidant properties. We assessed the potential antifibrotic effects of carvedilol and the underlying mechanisms that may further enhance its clinical benefits.Methods.Using a bile duct ligation rat model of hepatic fibrosis, we studied the effects of carvedilol on the fibrosis, collagen deposition, and oxidative stress based on histology, immunohistochemistry, western blot, and RT-PCR analyses.Results.Carvedilol attenuated liver fibrosis, as evidenced by reduced hydroxyproline content and the accumulation of collagen, downregulated TIMP-1 and TIMP-2, and upregulated MMP-13. MMP-2 was an exception, which was decreased after carvedilol treatment for 2 weeks and upregulated after carvedilol treatment for 4 weeks. Carvedilol reduced the activation of HSCs, decreased the induction of collagen, transforming growth factor-β1, and MDA content, and strengthened the SOD activity. The antifibrotic effects were augmented as dosages increased.Conclusions.The study indicates that carvedilol attenuated hepatic fibrosis in a dose-dependent manner. It can decrease collagen accumulation and HSCs activation by the amelioration of oxidative stress.
Associations of Two Obesity-Related Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms with Adiponectin in Chinese Children
Authors: Wu Lijun , Gao Liwang , Zhao Xiaoyuan , Zhang Meixian , Wu Jianxin , Mi Jie
Published: March 2017

Purpose. Genome-wide association studies have found two obesity-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rs17782313 near the melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) gene and rs6265 near the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene, but the associations of both SNPs with other obesity-related traits are not fully described, especially in children. The aim of the present study is to investigate the associations between the SNPs and adiponectin that has a regulatory role in glucose and lipid metabolism. Methods. We examined the associations of the SNPs with adiponectin in Beijing Child and Adolescent Metabolic Syndrome (BCAMS) study. A total of 3503 children participated in the study. Results. The SNP rs6265 was significantly associated with adiponectin under an additive model (P=0.02 and 0.024, resp.) after adjustment for age, gender, and BMI or obesity statuses. The SNP rs17782313 was significantly associated with low adiponectin under a recessive model. No statistical significance was found between the two SNPs and low adiponectin after correction for multiple testing. Conclusion. We demonstrate for the first time that the SNP rs17782313 near MC4R and the SNP rs6265 near BDNF are associated with adiponectin in Chinese children. These novel findings provide important evidence that adiponectin possibly mediates MC4R and BDNF involved in obesity.
The Coupled Effect of Loading Rate and Grain Size on Tensile Strength of Sandstones under Dynamic Disturbance
Authors: Yu Miao , Wei Chenhui , Niu Leilei
Published: March 2017

It is of significance to comprehend the effects of rock microstructure on the tensile strength under different loading rates caused by mining disturbance. So, in this paper, three kinds of sandstones drilled from surrounding rocks in Xiao Jihan Coal to simulate the in situ stress state, whose average grain size is 30 μm (fine grain, FG), 105 μm (medium grain, MG), and 231 μm (Coarse grain, CG), are selected with the calculation of optical microscopic technique and moreover processed to Brazilian disc (BD) to study the mechanical response of samples. The dynamic Brazilian tests of samples with three kinds of grain sizes are conducted with the Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) driven by pendulum hammer, which can produce four different velocities (V=2.0 m/s, 2.5 m/s, 3.3 m/s, and 4.2 m/s) when the incident bar is impacted by pendulum hammer. The incident wave produced by pendulum hammer is a slowly rising stress wave, which allows gradual stress accumulation in the specimen and maintains the load at both ends of the specimen in an equilibrium state. The results show that the dynamic strength of three kinds of BD samples represented loading rates dependence, and FG sandstones are more sensitive for loading rates than MG and CG samples. Moreover, the peak strength is observed to increase linearly with an increasing stress rates, and the relationship between the dynamic BD strength and stress rates can be built through a linear equation. Finally, the failure modes of different grain sizes are discussed and explained by microfailure mechanism.
Problems with Mixed Boundary Conditions in Banach Spaces
Authors: Dallos Santos Dionicio Pastor
Published: March 2017

Using Leray-Schauder degree or degree for α-condensing maps we obtain the existence of at least one solution for the boundary value problem of the following type: φu′′=ft,u,u′,  u(T)=0=u′(0), where φ:X→X is a homeomorphism with reverse Lipschitz constant such that φ(0)=0, f:0,T×X×X→X is a continuous function, T is a positive real number, and X is a real Banach space.
Reduced Histone H3 Lysine 9 Methylation Contributes to the Pathogenesis of Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults via Regulation of SUV39H2 and KDM4C
Authors: Liu Xi-yu , Li Hong
Published: March 2017

Aims. Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is an autoimmune disease of which the mechanism is not clear. Emerging evidence suggests that histone methylation contributes to autoimmunity.Methods. Blood CD4+T lymphocytes from 26 LADA patients and 26 healthy controls were isolated to detect histone H3 lysine 4 and H3 lysine 9 methylation status.Results. Reduced global H3 lysine 9 methylation was observed in LADA patients’ CD4+T lymphocytes, compared to healthy controls (P< 0.05). H3 lysine 4 methylation was not statistically different. The reduced H3 lysine 9 methylation was associated with GADA titer but not correlated with glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). When the LADA patient group was divided into those with complication and those without, relatively reduced global H3 lysine 9 methylation was observed in LADA patients with complication (P< 0.05). The expression of histone methyltransferase SUV39H2 for H3 lysine 9 methylation was downregulated in LADA patients, and the expression of histone demethylase KDM4C which made H3 lysine 9 demethylation was upregulated.Conclusion. The reduction of histone H3 lysine 9 methylation which may due to the downregulation of methyltransferase SUV39H2 and the upregulation of demethylase KDM4C was found in CD4+T lymphocytes of LADA patients.
Clinical Features and Outcome in Adult Cases of Tuberculous Meningitis in Tertiary Care Hospital in Antananarivo, Madagascar
Authors: Raberahona Mihaja , Rakotoarivelo Rivonirina Andry , Razafinambinintsoa Tiana , Andrianasolo Radonirina Lazasoa , Randria Mamy Jean de Dieu
Published: March 2017

Purpose.We aimed to describe and to assess prognosis factors in tuberculous meningitis in adult patients.Methods.We performed a retrospective study of case records of adult patients. Patients classified as definite, probable, or possible tuberculous meningitis according to standardized definition criteria were included and assessed in the study.Results.Seventy-five patients were included in the study. Tuberculous meningitis was classified as definite in 8 (10.7%), probable in 44 (58.7%), and possible in 23 patients (30.6%). HIV was found in 3% of patients. Patients were in advanced stages at admission in 82.7%. Median duration of symptoms prior to admission was 3 weeks (IQR: 2–5). Median time to diagnosis following admission was 5 days (IQR: 3–8). Median CSF WCC was 75 per mm3with lymphocytic predominance in 38 cases (52.8%). Median CSF glucose level was 1.48 mmol/L and median CSF protein level was 1 g/L. Mortality rate was 28%. Age ≥ 35 years (aOR: 4.06; 95% CI: 1.16–14.26) and coma (aOR: 12.98; 95% CI: 1.13–149.16) predicted inpatient mortality.Conclusion.Most of the patients experienced more than 3 weeks of diagnostic delay prior to admission. Mortality was high and occurred early after admission. Age and coma were identified as independent prognosis factors.
Optimizing Therapeutic Effect of Aurora B Inhibition in Acute Myeloid Leukemia with AZD2811 Nanoparticles
Authors: Floc'h Nicolas , Ashton Susan , Taylor Paula , Trueman Dawn , Harris Emily , Odedra Rajesh , Maratea Kim , Derbyshire Nicola , Caddy Jacqueline , Jacobs Vivien N. , Hattersley Maureen , Wen Shenghua , Curtis Nicola J. , Pilling James E. , Pease Elizabeth J. , Barry Simon T.
Published: March 2017

Barasertib (AZD1152), a highly potent and selective aurora kinase B inhibitor, gave promising clinical activity in elderly acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. However, clinical utility was limited by the requirement for a 7-day infusion. Here we assessed the potential of a nanoparticle formulation of the selective Aurora kinase B inhibitor AZD2811 (formerly known as AZD1152-hQPA) in preclinical models of AML. When administered to HL-60 tumor xenografts at a single dose between 25 and 98.7 mg/kg, AZD2811 nanoparticle treatment delivered profound inhibition of tumor growth, exceeding the activity of AZD1152. The improved antitumor activity was associated with increased phospho-histone H3 inhibition, polyploidy, and tumor cell apoptosis. Moreover, AZD2811 nanoparticles increased antitumor activity when combined with cytosine arabinoside. By modifying dose of AZD2811 nanoparticle, therapeutic benefit in a range of preclinical models was further optimized. At high-dose, antitumor activity was seen in a range of models including the MOLM-13 disseminated model. At these higher doses, a transient reduction in bone marrow cellularity was observed demonstrating the potential for the formulation to target residual disease in the bone marrow, a key consideration when treating AML. Collectively, these data establish that AZD2811 nanoparticles have activity in preclinical models of AML. Targeting Aurora B kinase with AZD2811 nanoparticles is a novel approach to deliver a cell-cycle inhibitor in AML, and have potential to improve on the clinical activity seen with cell-cycle agents in this disease. Mol Cancer Ther; 16(6); 1031–40. ©2017 AACR.
Rapid Disease Progression of Liver Metastases following Resection in a Liver-Transplanted Patient with Probable Lynch Syndrome – A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Wassano Noelle Suemi , Sergi Francisco  , Ferro Gustavo , Genzini Tércio , D’Alpino Peixoto Renata
Published: March 2017

Solid organ transplantation provides life-saving therapy for patients with end-stage organ disease, and its outcomes have been improving dramatically over the past few decades. However, substantial morbidity results from chronic immunosuppressive therapy administered to prevent graft rejection. It predisposes patients to several life-threatening complications, such as opportunistic microbial infections and the development of different types of cancers. Here, we presented the case of a young man with probable Lynch syndrome, who developed an aggressive colon carcinoma after long-term immunosuppressive therapy due to a prior liver transplantation. Based on this case report, we attempt to find an answer to the question about the risk of cancer development or recurrence in patients with familial syndromes receiving long-term immunosuppressive therapy and to find out how it can be minimized. Answering these questions is particularly important, given the facts that disease course is substantially more aggressive among transplanted patients and that prognosis is poor due to lack of immunocompetence, especially in the setting of Lynch syndrome.