bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of maxillary sinus floor augmentation without grafts in atrophic maxilla: A systematic review and meta‐analysis based on randomised controlled trials
Authors: Yang Jing , Xia Ting , Wang Hui , Cheng Zhigang , Shi Bin
Published: December 2018

Background

Maxillary sinus floor augmentation without grafts has been more widely used, but the efficacy is still controversial.

Purpose

The aim of this review was to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of sinus floor augmentation without grafts in atrophic maxilla.

Methods

The electronic databases included PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The meta‐analysis was conducted by Review Manager 5.1. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE).

Results

The electronic database and manual search yield 707 studies. After critical selection, only 6 studies were eligible. Five studies with 336 implants were included in the meta‐analysis compared sinus augmentation with grafts to without grafts. No significant differences were found between the two groups in implant survivals (P = 0.94), marginal bone loss (P = 0.73) and new bone density (P = 0.54). There was significantly more endosinus bone gain in the grafting group (P = 0.02). According to the GRADE, the levels of evidence were moderate (implant survival and marginal bone loss), low (endosinus bone gain) and very low (new bone density).

Conclusion

There were no significant differences between maxillary sinus augmentation with and without grafts in short‐term implant survivals.
Study of nuclear factor-2 erythroid related factor-2 activator, berberine, in paclitaxel induced peripheral neuropathy pain model in rats
Authors: Singh Jagjit , Saha Lekha , Singh Neha , Kumari Puja , Bhatia Alka , Chakrabarti Amitava
Published: December 2018

Objectives

The role of nuclear factor-2 erythroid related factor-2 (Nrf2) activator, berberine (BBR), has been established in rat model of streptozotocin induced diabetic neuropathy. Around 30–40% of cancer patients, on paclitaxel (PTX) chemotherapy develop peripheral neuropathy. The present study was contemplated with the aim of establishing the neuropathy preventive role of BBR, in paclitaxel induced peripheral neuropathy model in rats.

Methods

A total of 30 Wistar rats were divided into five groups as follows: Group I: dimethyl sulfoxide; Group II: PTX+ 0.9% NaCl; Group III: Amitriptyline (ATL) + PTX; Group IV: BBR (10 mg/kg) + PTX and Group V: BBR (20 mg/kg) + PTX. Animals were assessed for tail flick latency, tail cold allodynia latency, histopathological scores, oxidative stress parameters, and mRNA expression of the Nrf2 gene in the sciatic nerve.

Key findings

Berberine significantly increased the tail flick and tail cold allodynia latencies and significantly decreased the histopathological score. BBR reduced oxidative stress by significantly decreasing the lipid peroxidation, increasing the superoxide dismutase and reduced glutathione levels in the sciatic nerve. BBR also increased the mRNA expression of Nrf2 gene in rat sciatic nerve.

Conclusions

All of these results showed the neuropathy preventing role of BBR in PTX induced neuropathy pain model in rats.
The Effect of Pink/Blue Clothing on Implicit and Explicit Gender‐Related Self‐Cognition and Attitudes Among Men
Authors: Ishii Kunio , Numazaki Makoto , Tado'oka Yoshika
Published: December 2018

In many cultures worldwide, one stereotype emerges: Pink is associated with girls and blue is associated with boys. Based on the enclothed cognition theory, the present study examined the effects of men's pink clothing on gender‐related self‐cognition and sex‐role attitudes. Male Japanese participants wore either a pink or blue coat and completed a gender stereotype Implicit Association Test, a self‐rating scale, and gender attitude scales (a measure of egalitarian sex‐role attitude and the Ambivalent Sexism Inventory). Results showed that among participants with low self‐esteem, the implicit self–feminine association was stronger in the pink condition than in the blue condition. On the other hand, participants with high self‐esteem explicitly associated themselves more with power‐oriented traits compared with interpersonal‐oriented traits when they wore a pink coat compared with those who wore a blue coat. Additionally, participants in the pink condition expressed stronger egalitarian sex‐role attitudes and weaker benevolent sexism than those in the blue condition. We propose that men's pink clothing is a means of diminishing gender stereotypes and traditional sex‐role attitudes.
The host range of dermatophytes, it is at all possible? Phenotypic evaluation of the keratinolytic activity of Trichophyton verrucosum clinical isolates
Authors: Gnat Sebastian , Łagowski Dominik , Nowakiewicz Aneta , Zięba Przemysław
Published: December 2018

Dermatophytes are fungi that have an ability to invade keratinised structures. Enzymes secreted by dermatophytes can underlie fungal survival on the host and development of infection. It is possible that the range of activity of keratinases from various dermatophytes is limited to specific species of animals and groups of people. The aim of this study was to carry out phenotypic analysis of the degree of keratinolytic activity of Trichophyton verrucosum strains using hairs of humans and various animal species as substrates. Our results indicated that the activity of keratinases is substrate‐induced. The host range of T. verrucosum can be defined as wide. The highest activity of keratinases was recorded in media containing keratin from cow (Bos taurus) and sheep (Ovis aries) hairs in comparison with that from other tested species. The production of keratin‐degrading enzymes is a function of time, with the peak of their activity occurring on day 15 of incubation. The role of keratin‐degrading enzymes in the pathogenesis of dermatophytosis is becoming increasingly clearer. Given the conceptual understanding that keratin breakdown may require more than just one enzyme, the use of phenotypic methods is an optimal approach to in vitro study of the decomposition of species‐specific keratin.
Altered Spontaneous Brain Activity in Patients with Classical Trigeminal Neuralgia Using Regional Homogeneity: A Resting‐State Functional MRI Study
Authors: Xiang Chu‐Qi , Liu Wen‐Feng , Xu Qian‐Hui , Su Ting , Yong‐Qiang Shu , Min You‐Lan , Yuan Qing , Zhu Pei‐Wen , Liu Kang‐Cheng , Jiang Nan , Ye Lei , Shao Yi
Published: December 2018

Objective

Neuroimaging studies have shown that patients with pain‐related conditions have altered neuronal activity and structural functions. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether patients with classical trigeminal neuralgia (CTN) exhibit changes in corresponding neuronal activity via analysis of neuronal activity regional homogeneity (ReHo).

Methods

A total of 28 patients presenting with sore eyes (12 men and 16 women) were matched with 28 healthy controls (12 men and 16 women). All participants underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). This ReHo method was used to assess the consistency of changes in neural activity in various brain regions. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was applied to differentiate ReHo values of patients with CTN from ReHo values of healthy controls. Pearson's correlation analysis was applied to evaluate the correlation between ReHo values of different brain regions of patients with CTN and clinical manifestations.

Results

Compared with healthy controls, patients with CTN were found to have increased ReHo values in the inferior cerebellum bilaterally, right inferior temporal gyrus, right middle occipital gyrus, right fusiform gyrus, right superior frontal gyrus, and right precentral gyrus. ROC curve analysis of each brain region revealed near‐perfect accuracy regarding the area under the curve. However, no correlation between ReHo values and clinical manifestations in patients with CTN was found.

Conclusions

CTN is associated with altered neuronal networks in different areas of the brain. ReHo values all possess different degrees of change, implying that CTN has a certain impact on cerebral function.
Contrasting stomatal sensitivity to temperature and soil drought in mature alpine conifers
Authors: Peters Richard L. , Speich Matthias , Pappas Christoforos , Kahmen Ansgar , von Arx Georg , Graf Pannatier Elisabeth , Steppe Kathy , Treydte Kerstin , Stritih Ana , Fonti Patrick
Published: December 2018

Conifers growing at high elevations need to optimize their stomatal conductance (gs) for maximizing photosynthetic yield while minimizing water loss under less favourable thermal conditions. Yet the ability of high‐elevation conifers to adjust their gs sensitivity to environmental drivers remains largely unexplored.

We used 4 years of sap flow measurements to elucidate intraspecific and interspecific variability of gs in Larix decidua Mill. and Picea abies (L.) Karst along an elevational gradient and contrasting soil moisture conditions. Site‐ and species‐specific gs response to main environmental drivers were examined, including vapour pressure deficit, air temperature, solar irradiance, and soil water potential.

Our results indicate that maximum gs of L. decidua is >2 times higher, shows a more plastic response to temperature, and down‐regulates gs stronger during atmospheric drought compared to P. abies. These differences allow L. decidua to exert more efficient water use, adjust to site‐specific thermal conditions, and reduce water loss during drought episodes.

The stronger plasticity of gs sensitivity to temperature and higher conductance of L. decidua compared to P. abies provide new insights into species‐specific water use strategies, which affect species' performance and should be considered when predicting terrestrial water dynamics under future climatic change.
Pathogenicity and molecular phylogenetic analysis reveal a distinct position of the banana fingertip rot pathogen among the Burkholderia cenocepacia genomovars
Authors: Ansari M. , Taghavi S. M. , Zarei S. , Miri K. , Portier P. , Osdaghi E.
Published: December 2018

Banana (Musa spp.) is one of the most widely cultivated subtropical fruits around the globe. Banana cultivation has been extensively increased in southeastern Iran over the last two decades. Recently, banana fruits possessing rotten and blackened fingertip symptoms were observed in Sistan‐Baluchestan, Iran. Isolation and characterization of the causal agent showed that the pathogen belongs to the multifaceted bacterial species Burkholderia cenocepacia. Pathogenicity tests and host range assays showed that the strains were pathogenic on banana, as well as carrot, onion and potato. All the strains were resistant to 50 mg L−1 rifampicin and 200 mg L−1 copper sulphate. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA and recA gene sequences showed that the strains belong to two different genomovars of B. cenocepacia (III‐A and III‐B), which also include environmental and cystic fibrosis associated strains of the species. The results obtained from recA phylogeny were confirmed using multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA), although MLSA showed that the banana strains were clustered as a novel phylogroup among the members of both genomovars. Banana‐pathogenic B. cenocepacia strains isolated in Iran were different from the strains isolated in Taiwan, as the ‘B. cepacia epidemic strain marker’ reported in the Taiwanese strains was absent from Iranian strains. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first MLSA‐based study on the banana‐pathogenic strains of B. cenocepacia. However, further in‐depth molecular studies are needed to decipher the relationships between the banana fingertip rot pathogen and the clinical strains of B. cenocepacia.
Greater aggressiveness in the 2_A1 lineage of Phytophthora infestans may partially explain its rapid displacement of the US‐1 lineage in east Africa
Authors: Njoroge A. W. , Andersson B. , Yuen J. E. , Forbes G. A.
Published: December 2018

The displacement in east Africa of the US‐1 clonal lineage of Phytophthora infestans by 2_A1 clonal lineage has been very rapid. This study tested the hypothesis that dominance of 2_A1 could be due, at least in part, to the increased aggressiveness of 2_A1 over US‐1, using both a detached leaf assay (DLA) and a tuber slice assay. The assays were conducted in Uganda and Kenya but US‐1 was only assayed in Uganda, because isolates could not be moved across borders and no potato US‐1 isolates were available in Kenya. All isolates were collected from potato and compared on two potato cultivars (Kachpot‐1 and Sarpo Mira), with the 2_A1 isolates also tested on tomato cultivar Rio Grande. Additionally, a tuber slice assay was done to test whether the capacity to infect tubers differed between 2_A1 and US‐1. The aggressiveness of the isolates in the DLA varied significantly both within and among isolates classified according to clonal lineage and for type of host. The 2_A1 isolates were significantly more aggressive than US‐1 isolates on both potato varieties evaluated. There were no significant effects of clonal lineage or potato cultivar used in the tuber assay. No significant correlation between foliar and tuber pathogenicity was observed. The 2_A1 isolates were significantly more aggressive on potato than on tomato. An effect of location was also observed in the DLA, on both hosts. It can be concluded from this study that greater pathogenicity of 2_A1 is at least partly attributable to its increased aggressiveness on potato.
Transcriptome profiles of soybean leaves and roots in response to zinc deficiency
Authors: Zeng Houqing , Zhang Xin , Ding Ming , Zhang Xiajun , Zhu Yiyong
Published: December 2018

Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a widespread agricultural problem in arable soils of the whole world. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying Zn‐deficiency response are largely unknown. Here, we analyzed the transcriptomic profilings of soybean leaves and roots in response to Zn deficiency through Illumina's high‐throughput RNA sequencing in order to understand the molecular basis of Zn‐deficiency response in the plants. A total of 614 and 1011 gene loci were found to be differentially expressed in leaves and roots, respectively, and 88 loci were commonly found in both leaves and roots. Twelve differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were randomly selected for validation by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and their fold changes were similar to those of RNA‐seq. Gene ontology enrichment analysis showed that ion transport, nicotianamine (NA) biosynthetic process and queuosine biosynthetic process were enriched in the upregulated genes, while oxidation–reduction process and defense response were enriched in the downregulated genes. Among the DEGs, 20 DEGs are potentially involved in Zn homeostasis, including seven ZRT, IRT‐related protein (ZIP) transporter genes, three NA synthase genes, and seven metallothionein genes; 40 DEGs are possibly involved in diverse hormonal signals such as auxin, cytokinin, ethylene and gibberellin; nine DEGs are putatively involved in calcium signaling; 85 DEGs are putative transcription factor genes. Nine DEGs were found to contain zinc‐deficiency‐response element in their promoter regions. These results could provide comprehensive insights into the soybean response to Zn deficiency and will be helpful for further elucidation of the molecular mechanisms of Zn‐deficiency response and Zn‐deficiency tolerance in plants.
Evaluating Collaborative Readiness for Interdisciplinary Flood Research
Authors: Tate Eric , Decker Valerie , Just Craig
Published: December 2018

Increasing trends in global flood risk are driven by a complex web of interactions among natural, built environment, and social systems. As a result, flood resilience research is an ideal topic for an interdisciplinary approach. Core characteristics of interdisciplinary research are team collaboration and the systematic integration of disciplinary knowledge, in both problem formulation and analytical methods. Indicators of interdisciplinarity tend to focus on scholarly outcomes, but collaborative processes may be even more important for knowledge integration. In this Perspective piece, we outline and advocate a two‐pronged approach to enhance potential for integrating knowledge: using collaborative proximity to assess team readiness to conduct interdisciplinary research and employing program evaluation to assess change in proximity components over time. To do so, we draw on scholarship in economic geography, team science, and program evaluation. We then connect the findings to a case study of collaboration within our interdisciplinary team of flood researchers, program evaluators, and local stakeholders, as we navigate a multi‐institutional project on flood resilience.
Evaluation of salivary acetylcholinesterase and pseudocholinesterase in patients with Alzheimer's disease: A case–control study
Authors: Ahmadi‐Motamayel Fatemeh , Goodarzi Mohammad Taghi , Tarazi Shabnam , Vahabian Mehrangiz
Published: December 2018

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and pseudocholinesterase (PChE) in whole saliva in patients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) and in healthy subjects. Saliva has a high potential for keeping track of general health and diseases. AD is a type of dementia with reduction in brain cholinergic markers that causes memory, thinking, and behavior problems. Up to 90% decrease in AChE activity has been observed in AD.

Methods and results

Thirty healthy subjects and 30 patients with AD participated in this study. Saliva samples were collected from 8 to 10 am. AChE and PChE of saliva were assessed by the Ellman method. Statistical comparison was performed using SPSS 16 for t‐test. The activity of AChE and PChE significantly increased in the group with AD compared to the healthy subjects. Sex had no effect on the activities of these enzymes. No correlation existed between the duration of illness and enzymatic activity. The enzyme levels reduced with age.

Conclusion

AChE and PChE levels were increased in saliva samples of patients with AD. Therefore, saliva has the potential for being used for the purpose of biomarker evaluation to replace cerebrospinal fluid in patients with AD.
Comparison of two inoculation methods forMicrosporum canisculture using the toothbrush sampling technique
Authors: Di Mattia Diana , Fondati Alessandra , Monaco Moira , Pasquetti Mario , Peano Andrea
Published: December 2018

Background

The fungal culture toothbrush method is a common method for obtaining material for fungal cultures to diagnose dermatophytosis. The optimal technique for inoculation onto the agar surface has not been studied.

Hypothesis/objectives

To compare two inoculation techniques; the first involved pressing the toothbrush onto the plate surface (Procedure A) and the second involved pressing the toothbrush onto the agar, as well as transferring hairs and scales entrapped in the bristles. (Procedure B). The hypothesis was that transferring hairs onto the plate would increase the likelihood of obtaining positive cultures.

Animals

Twenty‐six cattery‐housed cats were sampled using the toothbrush technique. Two toothbrush samples were obtained from each cat.

Methods and materials

The two toothbrush samples from each cat were randomized to Procedure A or B, and the investigator was blinded to inoculation technique. Cultures were performed on a medium specific for dermatophytes. The number of positive plates, and the presence and abundance of colonies of dermatophytes and contaminant moulds were compared between the two techniques.

Results

Twenty‐one cats were culture‐positive forMicrosporum canis. Procedure A resulted in a significantly higher number (P < 0.01) of positive plates (20 of 21; 95%) compared with Procedure B (seven of 21; 33%). These results were due mainly to higher plate invasion by contaminant moulds, using Procedure B.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Based upon the findings of this study, the optimum inoculation technique is to press toothbrush bristles onto agar plates to maximize growth ofM. canisand minimize introduction of contaminant inoculation.
The Necessity to Reexamine Key Component Material With Spectrometry Analysis in the Nuclear Island
Authors: Wu Chongzhi , Zhang Jindong , Wang Zongkui , Zhang Zengkui , Fu Shenqing
Published: December 2018

In order to avoid the misuse of metal material in nuclear projects, typical cases happened in advanced passive pressurized water reactor (AP1000) nuclear power projects in China are analyzed. The analysis finding indicates that some cases were caused by defective procedures or undemanding processes performance, and all cases are found to be relevant to human error. It is considered that procedural management cannot completely avoid the misuse of metal material when it is caused by human error, and spectrometry analysis is suggested to reexamine the material of key components.
Functional Movement Screen Composite Scores in Firefighters: Effects of Corrective Exercise Training
Authors: Jafari Mahsa , Zolaktaf Vahid , Ghasemi Gholamali
Published: December 2018

Purpose: Firefighters require a high level of functional fitness to operate safely, effectively, and efficiently. The authors studied the distribution of functional movement screen (FMS) scores in firefighters and examined whether an 8-week corrective exercise program based on National Academy of Sport Medicine guidelines could improve them. Methods: All 524 active firefighters of a city completed the baseline FMS testing. Those who obtained a score of 14 or less, a sign of movement dysfunction, and volunteered to continue their participation were randomly assigned to either an experimental (n = 51) or a control (n = 45) group. Both groups participated in an 8-week training program. The control group used their own usual training routine, but the experimental group used the specific protocol designed for the study. Results: The FMS scores of 43% of the population were less than 14. Repeated-measures analysis of variance revealed a significant interaction between FMS scores of the groups (F1,94 =165, P < .001). The experimental group showed a 69% improvement from pretest (10.6) to posttest (17.8), whereas the control group showed only a 3% improvement from pretest (11.8) to posttest (12.1). Conclusions: Preceding studies have shown that FMS scores less than 14 increase the injury risk. The findings showed that using our proposed training protocol, low FMS scores could be improved to 14 and higher. Considering the high injury rate of firefighters, the authors suggest administering FMS periodically and to use a training protocol such as ours, to increase functional fitness and reduce injury risk.
The Effects of Ankle Position on Torque and Muscle Activity of the Knee Extensor During Maximal Isometric Contraction
Authors: Kim Dae-Hyun , Lee Jin-Hee , Yu Seul-Min , An Chang-Man
Published: December 2018

Context: It is very important to empirically determine the optimal ankle position for the quadriceps femoris (QF) strengthening during isometric exercises. Objective: To examine the effect of different ankle positions on torque and electromyography (EMG) activity of QF during maximal isometric contraction. Study Design: Within-subject repeated measures. Setting: University laboratory. Participants: Thirty-six healthy volunteers (15 males and 21 females). Main Outcome Measures: The isometric strength of the QF was measured at 3 different ankle positions: active dorsiflexion (AD), active plantar flexion (AP), and neutral position (NP). Simultaneously, 3 different ankle positions were assessed for EMG activity of the vastus medialis, vastus lateralis, and rectus femoris muscles during maximal voluntary isometric contraction. Results: The peak torque per body weight and average peak torque were significantly higher in AD than in AP and NP (P < .01). The vastus medialis and rectus femoris maximal voluntary isometric contraction EMG activity were significantly higher in AD than in AP and NP (P < .01). The vastus lateralis maximal voluntary isometric contraction EMG activity was significantly higher in AD than in AP and NP (P < .01), and was significantly higher in AP than in NP (P < .05). Conclusions: These results indicate that the 3 different ankle positions affect the QF torque and EMG activity. In particular, AD position may be more efficient for improving QF strength than AP and NP position. Future studies should prove whether long-term duration QF isometric exercise effects muscle strength and functional performance in different ankle positions.
The 2018 rift eruption and summit collapse of Kīlauea Volcano
Authors: Neal C. A. , Brantley S. R. , Antolik L. , Babb J. L. , Burgess M. , Calles K. , Cappos M. , Chang J. C. , Conway S. , Desmither L. , Dotray P. , Elias T. , Fukunaga P. , Fuke S. , Johanson I. A. , Kamibayashi K. , Kauahikaua J. , Lee R. L. , Pekalib S. , Miklius A. , Million W. , Moniz C. J. , Nadeau P. A. , Okubo P. , Parcheta C. , Patrick M. R. , Shiro B. , Swanson D. A. , Tollett W. , Trusdell F. , Younger E. F. , Zoeller M. H. , Montgomery-Brown E. K. , Anderson K. R. , Poland M. P. , Ball J. L. , Bard J. , Coombs M. , Dietterich H. R. , Kern C. , Thelen W. A. , Cervelli P. F. , Orr T. , Houghton B. F. , Gansecki C. , Hazlett R. , Lundgren P. , Diefenbach A. K. , Lerner A. H. , Waite G. , Kelly P. , Clor L. , Werner C. , Mulliken K. , Fisher G. , Damby D.
Published: December 2018

Connecting caldera collapse

The Kīlauea Volcano on the island of Hawai‘i erupted for 3 months in 2018. Neal
et al.
present a summary of the eruption sequence along with a variety of geophysical observations collected by the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. The cyclic inflation, deflation, and eventual collapse of the summit was tied to lava eruption from lower East Rift Zone fissures. A total volume of 0.8 cubic kilometers of magma erupted, roughly the equivalent of 320,000 swimming pools, which matched the change in volume at the summit.

Science
, this issue p.
367
Direct and Indirect Inhibition Effects of Resveratrol against
Toxoplasma gondii
Tachyzoites
In Vitro
Authors: Chen Qi-Wei , Dong Kai , Qin Han-Xiao , Yang Yi-Kai , He Jin-Lei , Li Jiao , Zheng Zhi-Wan , Chen Da-Li , Chen Jian-Ping
Published: December 2018

Toxoplasma gondii
is one of the most widespread obligatory parasitic protozoa and infects nearly all warm-blooded animals, leading to toxoplasmosis. The therapeutic drugs currently administered, like the combination of pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine, show high rates of toxic side effects, and drug resistance is encountered in some cases.
Evaluation of a Rapid Immunochromatographic Assay and Two Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays for Detection of IgM-Class Antibodies to Zika Virus
Authors: Granger Dane , Theel Elitza S.
Published: December 2018

There are currently five serologic assays available for detection of anti-Zika virus (ZIKV) IgM-class antibodies with U.S. Food and Drug Administration emergency use authorization.
Sonication Culture of Antimicrobial Agent-Containing Cement Spacers Removed during Staged Revisions for Arthroplasty Infection
Authors: Gomez-Urena Eric , Sierra Rafael J. , Greenwood-Quiantance Kerryl E. , Karau Melissa J. , Steckelberg James M. , Patel Robin
Published: December 2018

Diagnosis of persistent infection at the time of reimplantation for staged revision of infected arthroplasties is challenging. Implant sonication culture for the diagnosis of prosthetic joint infection (PJI) has improved sensitivity compared to standard periprosthetic tissue culture.
The Phylogenomic Diversity of Herbivore-AssociatedFibrobacterspp. Is Correlated to Lignocellulose-Degrading Potential
Authors: Neumann Anthony P. , Suen Garret
Published: December 2018

The herbivore gut microbiome is incredibly diverse, and a functional understanding of this diversity is needed to more reliably manipulate this community for specific gain, such as increased production in ruminant livestock. Microbial degraders of plant cell wall polysaccharides in the herbivore gut, particularlyFibrobacterspp., are of fundamental importance to their hosts for digestion of a diet consisting primarily of recalcitrant plant fibers. Considerable phylogenetic diversity exists among members of the genusFibrobacter, but much of this diversity remains cryptic. Here, we used comparative genomics, applied to a diverse collection of recently isolatedFibrobacterstrains, to identify a robust association between carbohydrate-active enzyme gene content and theFibrobacterphylogeny. Our results provide the strongest evidence reported to date for functional differences amongFibrobacterphylotypes associated with either the rumen or the hindgut and emphasize the general significance of carbohydrate-active enzymes in the evolution of fiber-degrading bacteria.
Confused health and nutrition claims in food marketing to children could adversely affect food choice and increase risk of obesity
Authors: García Ada L , Morillo-Santander Gabriela , Parrett Alison , Mutoro Antonina N
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To investigate the nutritional quality of foods marketed to children in the UK and to explore the use of health and nutrition claims.

Design

This cross-sectional study was carried out in a wide range of UK food retailers. Products marketed to children above the age of 1 year containing any of a range of child friendly themes (i.e. cartoons, toys and promotions), and terms suggesting a nutritious or healthy attribute such as ‘one of 5-a-day’, on product packaging were identified both in stores and online. Information on sugar, salt and fat content, as well as health and nutrition claims, was recorded. The Ofcom nutrient profiling model (NPM) was used to assess if products were healthy.

Results

Three hundred and thirty-two products, including breakfast cereals, fruit snacks, fruit-based drinks, dairy products and ready meals, were sampled. The use of cartoon characters (91.6%), nutrition claims (41.6%) and health claims (19.6%) was a common marketing technique. The one of 5-a-day claim was also common (41.6%), but 75.4% (103) of products which made this claim were made up of less than 80 g of fruit and vegetables. Sugar content (mean±SD per 100 g) was high in fruit snacks (48.4±16.2 g), cereal bars (28.9±7.5 g) and cereals (22.9±8.0 g). Overall, 41.0% of the products were classified as less healthy according to the Ofcom NPM.

Conclusion

A large proportion of products marketed to children through product packaging are less healthy, and claims used on product packaging are confusing. Uniform guidance would avoid confusion on nutritional quality of many popular foods.
Golf habits among physicians and surgeons: observational cohort study
Authors: Koplewitz Gal , Blumenthal Daniel M , Gross Nate , Hicks Tanner , Jena Anupam B
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To examine patterns of golfing among physicians: the proportion who regularly play golf, differences in golf practices across specialties, the specialties with the best golfers, and differences in golf practices between male and female physicians.

Design

Observational study.

Setting

Comprehensive database of US physicians linked to the US Golfing Association amateur golfer database.

Participants

41 692 US physicians who actively logged their golf rounds in the US Golfing Association database as of 1 August 2018.

Main outcome measures

Proportion of physicians who play golf, golf performance (measured using golf handicap index), and golf frequency (number of games played in previous six months).

Results

Among 1 029 088 physicians, 41 692 (4.1%) actively logged golf scores in the US Golfing Association amateur golfer database. Men accounted for 89.5% of physician golfers, and among male physicians overall, 5.5% (37 309/683 297) played golf compared with 1.3% (4383/345 489) among female physicians. Rates of golfing varied substantially across physician specialties. The highest proportions of physician golfers were in orthopedic surgery (8.8%), urology (8.1%), plastic surgery (7.5%), and otolaryngology (7.1%), whereas the lowest proportions were in internal medicine and infectious disease (<3.0%). Physicians in thoracic surgery, vascular surgery, and orthopedic surgery were the best golfers, with about 15% better golf performance than specialists in endocrinology, dermatology, and oncology.

Conclusions

Golfing is common among US male physicians, particularly those in the surgical subspecialties. The association between golfing and patient outcomes, costs of care, and physician wellbeing remain unknown.
Health economics of targeted intraoperative radiotherapy (TARGIT-IORT) for early breast cancer: a cost-effectiveness analysis in the United Kingdom
Authors: Vaidya Anil , Vaidya Param , Both Brigitte , Brew-Graves Chris , Bulsara Max , Vaidya Jayant S
Published: December 2018

Objective

The clinical effectiveness of targeted intraoperative radiotherapy (TARGIT-IORT) has been confirmed in the randomised TARGIT-A (targeted intraoperative radiotherapy-alone) trial to be similar to a several weeks’ course of whole-breast external-beam radiation therapy (EBRT) in patients with early breast cancer. This study aims to determine the cost-effectiveness of TARGIT-IORT to inform policy decisions about its wider implementation.

Setting

TARGIT-A randomised clinical trial (ISRCTN34086741) which compared TARGIT with traditional EBRT and found similar breast cancer control, particularly when TARGIT was given simultaneously with lumpectomy.

Methods

Cost-utility analysis using decision analytic modelling by a Markov model. A cost-effectiveness Markov model was developed using TreeAge Pro V.2015. The decision analytic model compared two strategies of radiotherapy for breast cancer in a hypothetical cohort of patients with early breast cancer based on the published health state transition probability data from the TARGIT-A trial. Analysis was performed for UK setting and National Health Service (NHS) healthcare payer’s perspective using NHS cost data and treatment outcomes were simulated for both strategies for a time horizon of 10 years. Model health state utilities were drawn from the published literature. Future costs and effects were discounted at the rate of 3.5%. To address uncertainty, one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed.

Main outcome measures

Quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs).

Results

In the base case analysis, TARGIT-IORT was a highly cost-effective strategy yielding health gain at a lower cost than its comparator EBRT. Discounted TARGIT-IORT and EBRT costs for the time horizon of 10 years were £12 455 and £13 280, respectively. TARGIT-IORT gained 0.18 incremental QALY as the discounted QALYs gained by TARGIT-IORT were 8.15 and by EBRT were 7.97 showing TARGIT-IORT as a dominant strategy over EBRT. Model outputs were robust to one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

TARGIT-IORT is a dominant strategy over EBRT, being less costly and producing higher QALY gain.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN34086741; post results
A surveillance study to determine the accuracy of mild traumatic brain injury diagnosis in an emergency department: protocol for a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Pozzato Ilaria , Cameron Ian D , Meares Susanne , Kifley Annette , Vu Kim Van , Liang Anthony , Gillett Mark , Craig Ashley , Gopinath Bamini
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Previous literature confirms that a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) may result in long-term emotional impacts and, in vulnerable subgroups, cognitive deficits. The accurate diagnosis of mTBI and its written documentation is an important first step towards providing appropriate and timely clinical care. Surveillance studies involving emergency department (ED) and hospital-based data need to be prioritised as these provide incident mTBI estimates. This project will advance existing research findings by estimating the occurrence of mTBI among those attending an ED and quantifying the accuracy of mTBI diagnoses recorded by ED staff through a comprehensive audit of ED records.

Methods and analysis

Retrospective chart reviews (between June 2015 and June 2016) of electronic clinical records from an ED in Sydney (New South Wales, Australia) will be conducted. The study population will include persons aged 18–65 years who attended the ED with any clinical features potentially indicative of mTBI. The WHO operational criteria for the clinical identification of mTBI cases is the presence of: (1) a Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) of 13–15 after 30 min postinjury or on presentation to hospital; (2) one or more of the following: post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) of less than 24 hours’ duration, confusion or disorientation, a witnessed loss of consciousness for ≤30 min and/or a positive CT brain scan. We estimate that 30 000 ED attendances will be screened and that a sample size of 500 cases with mTBI will be identified during this 1-year period, which will provide reliable estimates of mTBI occurrence in the ED setting.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Northern Sydney Local Health District Ethics Committee. The committee deemed this study as low risk in terms of ethical issues. The written papers from this study will be submitted for publication in quality peer-reviewed medical and health journals. Study findings will be disseminated via presentations at national/international conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
Evaluation of DementiaNet, a network-based primary care innovation for community-dwelling patients with dementia: protocol for a longitudinal mixed methods multiple case study
Authors: Richters Anke , Nieuwboer Minke S , Perry Marieke , Olde Rikkert Marcel G M , Melis Rene J F , van der Marck Marjolein A
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Primary healthcare professionals will increasingly be required to manage and optimise their treatment for patients with dementia. With DementiaNet, we aim to reduce the burden of dementia on healthcare services and society through implementation and facilitation of integrated network-based care with increased dementia expertise. DementiaNet is designed as a stepwise approach including clinical leadership, quality improvement cycles and interprofessional training, which are tailor-made to the local context. For example, the composition of the network and improvement goals are tailored to the local context and availability. Here, we describe the linked evaluation study which aims to provide insight in effectiveness, process and mechanism of the DementiaNet approach through an innovative evaluation design.

Methods and analysis

We designed a longitudinal, mixed methods, multiple case study. Study population consists of two levels: (i) local DementiaNet networks of primary care professionals and (ii) patients and informal caregivers who receive care from these networks. At the start and after 12 and 24 months, quantitative data are collected for each network on: level of network maturity, quality of care indicators and outcomes reported by informal caregivers of dementia patients. We assess changes in networks over time and the association with quality of care and informal caregiver-reported outcomes. Throughout the study, logs about each network are registered. Additionally, semi-structured interviews with network members and informal caregivers will provide insight in experiences and opinions regarding effects and mechanisms through which changes in quantitative outcomes are effectuated. Rich narratives will be constructed about the development of the local networks using collected data.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was reviewed by the local medical ethics committee; formal judgement was not required (protocol number: 2015–2053). The findings of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and presentations for healthcare professionals where appropriate.
Rationale and design of a multicentre, prospective, randomised, controlled clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of the adipose graft transposition procedure in patients with a myocardial scar: the AGTP II trial
Authors: Gastelurrutia Paloma , Gálvez-Montón Carolina , Cámara Maria Luisa , Bustamante-Munguira Juan , García-Pavia Pablo , Avanzas Pablo , Alberto San Román J , Pascual-Figal Domingo , Teresa Eduardo de , Crespo-Leiro Maria G , Manito Nicolás , Núñez Julio , Fernández-Avilés Francisco , Caballero Ángel , Teis Albert , Lupón Josep , Brugada Ramón , Martín Carlos , Silva Jacobo , Revilla-Orodea Ana , Cánovas Sergio J , Melero Jose M , Cuenca-Castillo Jose J , Gonzalez-Pinto Angel , Bayes-Genis Antoni
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Cardiac adipose tissue is a source of progenitor cells with regenerative capacity. Studies in rodents demonstrated that the intramyocardial delivery of cells derived from this tissue improves cardiac function after myocardial infarction (MI). We developed a new reparative approach for damaged myocardium that integrates the regenerative properties of cardiac adipose tissue with tissue engineering. In the adipose graft transposition procedure (AGTP), we dissect a vascularised flap of autologous pericardial adipose tissue and position it over the myocardial scarred area. Following encouraging results in acute and chronic MI porcine models, we performed the clinical trial (NCT01473433, AdiFLAP trial) to evaluate safety in patients with chronic MI undergoing coronary artery bypass graft. The good safety profile and trends in efficacy warranted a larger trial.

Study design

The AGTP II trial (NCT02798276) is an investigator initiated, prospective, randomised, controlled, multicentre study to assess the efficacy of the AGTP in 108 patients with non-revascularisable MI. Patients will be assigned to standard clinical practice or the AGTP. The primary endpoint is change in necrotic mass ratio by gadolinium enhancement at 91 and 365 days. Secondary endpoints include improvement in regional contractibility by MRI at 91 and 365 days; changes in functional MRI parameters (left ventricular ejection fraction, left and right ventricular geometric remodelling) at 91 and 365 days; levels of N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) at 7, 91 and 365 days; appearance of arrhythmias from 24 hour Holter monitoring at 24 hours, and at 91 and 365 days; all cause death or re-hospitalisation at 365 days; and cardiovascular death or re-hospitalisation at 365 days.

Ethics and dissemination

The institutional review board approved the trial which will comply with the Declaration of Helsinki. All patients will provide informed consent. It may offer a novel, effective and technically simple technique for patients with no other therapeutic options. The results will be submitted to indexed medical journals and national and international meetings.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT02798276, pre-results.
Tunnel driving occupational environment and hearing loss in train drivers in China
Authors: Peng Yong , Fan Chaojie , Hu Lin , Peng Shuangling , Xie Pengpeng , Wu Fugui , Yi Shengen
Published: December 2018

Objective

Hearing loss caused by high levels of noise is a potential occupational health disorder among train drivers around the world. This study aims to investigate the relationship between tunnel driving occupational environment and hearing loss in train drivers, to provide some insights into helping reduce hearing loss among train drivers.

Methods

This study analysed cross-sectional data for 1214 train drivers who work at China Railway Guangzhou Group. Health examination was taken by physicians with professional licences, and audiometric testing was performed by health technicians in a sound-isolated room. T/R is defined as the ratio of the length of the tunnels to the length of the railway along drivers’ work routes. Different multivariate models and stratified models were established for sensitivity analysis. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to estimate the ORs of hearing loss associated with tunnel driving occupational environment.

Results

The adjusted OR for high-frequency hearing loss in association with the highest T/R levels (30%–45%) versus the lowest T/R levels (<15%) was 3.72 (95% CI 1.43 to 9.69). The corresponding OR for speech-hearing loss was 1.75 (95% CI 0.38 to 8.06). The sensitivity analysis shows our results are suitable for various alternative models.

Conclusions

This study found that there was a significant association between tunnel driving occupational environment and hearing loss. Train drivers who work in a higher T/R environment have worse hearing loss.
Re-engineering the post-myocardial infarction medicines optimisation pathway: a retrospective analysis of a joint consultant pharmacist and cardiologist clinic model
Authors: Khatib Rani , Patel Nasrin , Laverty Una , Mcgawley Gina , McLenachan Jim , Shield Sarah , Hall Alistair S
Published: December 2018

Background

Inadequate medicines optimisation and adherence are significant problems among patients taking secondary prevention medications following myocardial infarction (MI). A novel joint consultant cardiology pharmacist and cardiologist medicines optimisation clinic was initiated for patients recently discharged following MI.

Methods

Patients completed a locally developed tool, the ‘My Experience of Taking Medicines’ questionnaire, designed to allow sharing of barriers to adherence with medications. They then attended a clinic with the consultant pharmacist or cardiologist (or both). Secondary prevention medicines needs and barriers to adherence were identified and discussed, and an action plan developed. The data provided are from a retrospective review of 270 post-MI patients attending the service between October 2015 and December 2016.

Results

Mean age was 67.3 years and 67.8% were male. The mean time from discharge to first outpatient clinic attendance was reduced by 56.1% (49.4 days vs 88 days before the service began). More than 95% of patient without planned non-pharmacological intervention postdischarge did not need a cardiologist’s input. Levels of medicines optimisation were improved substantially after attendance: patients receiving a recommended angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker dose increased from 16.3% to 73.9% (p<0.001); patients receiving a recommended beta-blocker dose increased from 6.2% to 46.1% (p<0.001). Patient concerns about their medications were significantly decreased (all p<0.001). Rates of non-adherence fell by 42.6%–70.8% at 3–6 months post-clinic. Readmission rates also declined after the service opened.

Conclusions

A medicines optimisation and patient adherence strategy based on a joint consultant cardiology pharmacist and cardiologist clinic can improve both adherence and outcomes post-MI.