bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studying the effect of systemic and biological drugs on intima‐media thickness in patients suffering from moderate and severe psoriasis
Authors: Martinez‐Lopez A. , Blasco‐Morente G. , Perez‐Lopez I. , Tercedor‐Sanchez J. , Arias‐Santiago S.
Published: February 2018

Background

Psoriasis has been related to a large number of cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus and arteriosclerosis. The increased carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT) could be considered to be a marker of generalized arteriosclerosis.

Objective

To assess the effect of systemic and biological drugs on psoriatic patients' carotid IMT.

Methods

A prospective study was performed. We studied 53 patients with moderate and severe psoriasis from our psoriasis dermatological unit, analysing lipid and glucose metabolism and performing a carotid IMT sonography before introduction of systemic and biological drugs. After that, we performed an 8‐month closely analytic and sonographic follow‐up.

Results

The IMT of the patients with psoriasis treated with biological drugs tended to decrease, although this occurrence was not statistically significant (P = 0.086). The subgroup analysis revealed that patients treated with methotrexate (P = 0.045) and anti‐IL‐12/23 (P = 0.010) presented a decrease in their IMT levels. This analysis also showed a decrease in glycaemia and insulin levels in patients treated with TNF‐alpha inhibitors and ustekinumab.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that the carotid IMT may benefit from treatment with biological drugs, particularly anti‐IL‐12/23 and methotrexate in patients suffering from moderate and severe psoriasis. However, larger longitudinal studies should be performed to fully confirm these results.
Pork juice promotes biofilm formation in Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Liu Aili , Shi Chunlei
Published: February 2018

A total of 47 Listeria monocytogenes isolates were separated and identified from 153 retailed raw meat samples in Shanghai area with the highest contamination rate in pork meat (20.34%). Using multiplex PCR, these isolates were divided into 3 serogroups: 1/2a‐3a, 1/2b‐3b‐7, and 1/2c‐3c, and 1/2a‐3a was predominant in these isolates. Calgary device was introduced to cultivate biofilm, and crystal violet staining and viable cell enumeration was used to determine the quantity of biofilm formation. Meat juices significantly impacted the biofilm formation, and L. monocytogenes had the highest biofilm‐forming ability in pork juice. However, there was no significant difference on biofilm formation among different serotypes and sources. When cocultured in pork juice, the cell numbers of Salmonella enterica, Staphylococcus aureus, and L. monocytogenes had a significant decrease or decreasing tendency compared to monospecies biofilm, which revealed a competitive interaction among the three species.

Practical applications

It is aimed to investigate the biofilm formation by L. monocytogenes on plastic surface in different meat juices (beef, chicken, and pork) and the interaction among the multispecies biofilm of Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, and L. monocytogenes in pork juice. Meat juice was used as a simulation of the real condition in meat processing environment, and the result can give suggestions to meat industry to keep a close eye on raw pork product.
Evaluating Scholarship Productivity inCOAMFTE‐Accredited Doctoral Programs: An Update
Authors: DuPree W. Jared , Bean Roy A.
Published: February 2018

Scholarly productivity continues to be used as a significant factor when universities make decisions about granting tenure to faculty, allocating resources, and supporting program goals. In 2009, DuPree, White, Meredith, Ruddick, and Anderson reviewed research productivity in faculty fromCOAMFTE‐accredited PhD programs. As an update, the purpose of this article is to re‐examine scholarly productivity trends amongCOAMFTE‐accredited doctoral programs through the use of several evaluation methods. Specifically, productivity was examined in the following areas: (a) family therapy journal publications; (b) publications in any type of peer‐reviewed journal; (c) h‐factor index scores; and (d) historic and recent journal publication trends.
Meta‐analysis of the prognostic value of the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yue , Wang Pengfei , Andrukhov Oleh , Wang Tingjian , Song Siying , Yan Changxiang , Zhang Fengqiu
Published: February 2018

Background

A number of studies have assessed the prognostic value of the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), but their results regarding the predictive value of NLR in OSCC are inconsistent. We therefore performed a meta‐analysis to clarify the association between NLR and clinical outcome in OSCC.

Methods

We searched the MEDLINE and Web of Science to identify potential studies investigating the association between NLR and survival in OSCC.

Results

A total of 10 studies, enrolling 2135 patients with OSCC, were included. A higher NLR was a negative predictor for both disease‐specific survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.47‐2.54) and overall survival (HR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.28‐1.90).

Conclusion

This suggests a higher NLR is predictive of a poorer prognosis in OSCC. Because determination of NLR is non‐invasive and cost‐effective, it could be widely used for predicting prognosis in OSCC.
Ready‐made versus custom‐made mandibular advancement appliances in obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Johal Ama , Agha Bahn
Published: February 2018

Mandibular advancement appliances (MAAs) are an increasingly accepted treatment choice in obstructive sleep apnea management. The ready‐made MAAs has questioned the need for a customised MAAs, given the former is more accessible and considerably cheaper. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate both objective and patient‐centred outcomes in relation to ready‐made and custom‐made MAAs s. Biomedical electronic databases, clinical trials registers and Grey literature were searched to January 2017, for randomised controlled trials. Meta‐analyses of clinical trials were conducted for a range of objective (apnea–hypopnea index, treatment response) and subjective scales (daytime sleepiness; quality of life; patient preference and adherence). The review included three randomised controlled trials, which revealed low risk of bias. Custom‐made MAAs s achieved a significant mean difference in the apnea–hypopnea index (−3.2; 95% confidence interval −5.18, −1.22; p = .004), daytime sleepiness (−0.98; 95% confidence interval −1.97, 0.01; p = .05), observed mean difference in Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire scores (0.76; 95% confidence interval 0.14, 1.38; p = .02), self‐reported adherence (6.4–7 nights per week and 5–6.3 hr per night) and expressed preference (p ≤ .001) when compared with the ready‐made MAAs s. Custom‐made MAAs s offer clear definable advantages, demonstrating significant clinical effectiveness, patient preference and adherence.
The optimal timing of hepatitis C therapy in liver transplant‐eligible patients: Cost‐effectiveness analysis of new opportunities
Authors: Cortesi P. A. , Belli L. S. , Facchetti R. , Mazzarelli C. , Perricone G. , De Nicola S. , Cesana G. , Duvoux C. , Mantovani L. G. , Strazzabosco M. ,   the European Liver and Intestine Transplant Association (ELITA)
Published: February 2018

Different strategies of DAAs treatment are currently possible both pre‐ and postliver transplantation (LT). Clinical and economic consequences of these strategies still need to be adequately investigated; this study aims at assessing their cost‐effectiveness. A decision analytical model was created to simulate the progression of HCV‐infected patients listed for decompensated cirrhosis (DCC) or for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Three DAAs treatment strategies were compared: (i) a 12‐week course of DAAs prior to transplantation (PRE‐LT), (ii) a 4‐week course of DAAs starting at the time of transplantation (PERI‐LT) and (iii) a 12‐week course of DAAs administered at disease recurrence (POST‐LT). The population was substratified according to HCC presence and, in those without HCC, according to the MELD score at listing. Data on DAAs effectiveness were estimated using a cohort of patients still followed by 11 transplant centres of the European Liver and Intestine Transplant Association and by data available in the literature. In this study, PRE‐LT treatment strategy was dominant for DCC patients with MELD<16 and cost‐effective for those with MELD16‐20, while POST‐LT strategy emerged as cost‐effective for DCC patients with MELD>20 and for those with HCC. Sensitivity analyses confirmed PRE‐LT as the cost‐effective strategy for patients with MELD≤20. In conclusion, PRE‐LT treatment is cost‐effective for patients with MELD≤20 without HCC, while treatments after LT are cost‐effective in cirrhotic patients with MELD>20 and in those with HCC. It is worth reminding, though, that the final choice of a specific regimen at the patient level will have to be personalized based on clinical, social and transplant‐related factors.
Cirrhosis, high age and high body mass index are risk factors for persisting advanced fibrosis after sustained virological response in chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Hedenstierna M. , Nangarhari A. , El‐Sabini A. , Weiland O. , Aleman S.
Published: February 2018

We aimed to assess fibrosis with liver stiffness measurement long‐term after sustained virological response of chronic hepatitis C and to identify risk factors associated with persisting fibrosis. In this cross‐sectional study, patients with chronic hepatitis C and pretreatment advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis treated successfully at Karolinska University Hospital with an interferon‐containing regimen underwent liver stiffness measurement with FibroScan. The impact of potential risk factors for persisting fibrosis was estimated. We included 269 patients with a median follow‐up time of 7.7 years (range 0‐20), 84 with a follow‐up time of ≥10 years. Patients with pretreatment cirrhosis had a significantly higher median liver stiffness level (8.5 kPa 95% CI 7‐9.1) at follow‐up, than patients with advanced fibrosis (6 kPa 95% CI 5.5‐6.4). A majority improved their fibrosis stage after sustained virological response, but 24% had persisting advanced fibrosis with a liver stiffness level of ≥ 9.5 kPa. Among patients with pretreatment cirrhosis, the proportion with persisting advanced fibrosis diminished with longer follow‐up time, from 48% after <5 years to 21% after >10 years. The main risk factors for persisting advanced fibrosis were pretreatment cirrhosis, high age and body mass index. In conclusion, fibrosis improves substantially during long‐term follow‐up after sustained virological response in hepatitis C patients with pretreatment advanced liver fibrosis. Lifestyle intervention to decrease weight in obese persons and treatment before establishment of cirrhosis should therefore be recommended to avoid persistence of advanced fibrosis after virological cure.
Japan's emerging role in the global pharmaceutical intellectual property regime: A tale of two trade agreements
Authors: Townsend Belinda , Gleeson Deborah , Lopert Ruth
Published: February 2018

This paper explores Japan's role in reshaping the global pharmaceutical intellectual property regime by examining its position on the expansion of intellectual property rights (IPR) in negotiations for two regional trade agreements: the Trans Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Through systematic analysis of leaked negotiating texts documenting its positions on key issues, we demonstrate Japan is now playing a pivotal role in promoting the adoption of expanded IPRs. We show that its position as IPR champion in the Asia Pacific region reflects a domestic strategy initiated in 2013 to bolster pharmaceutical export growth. Drawing on past experience and focusing on the RCEP negotiations, we explore ways in which low and middle income countries might respond to this shift in order to protect and promote access to medicines.
Cultural factors influencing Japanese nurses’ assertive communication. Part 1: Collectivism
Authors: Omura Mieko , Stone Teresa E. , Levett‐Jones Tracy
Published: February 2018

Culture influences the way health‐care professionals communicate with each other and their ability to relate to colleagues in an assertive manner. Cultural barriers can also make it difficult for nurses to speak up even when they have concerns about patient safety. An understanding of the potential impact of cultural factors is therefore needed when developing assertiveness communication training programs. This paper presents the findings from a study that explored Japanese nurses’ perceptions of how culture and values impact assertive communication in health care. Semistructured interviews with 23 registered nurses were undertaken, and data were analyzed using directed content analysis. Two major themes were identified: collectivism and hierarchy/power. In the present study, we discuss the cultural values related to collectivism that included four categories of “wa” (harmony), “uchi to soto” (inside and outside), implicit communication/ambiguity, and “nemawashi” (groundwork). The findings highlight the impact of culture on nurses’ assertive communication behaviors and can be used to inform the design of culturally‐appropriate assertiveness communication training programs for Japanese nurses working both within their own country or internationally.
Correlation of right ventricular multielectrode endocardial unipolar mapping and epicardial scar
Authors: Chrispin Jonathan , Keramati Ali R. , Assis Fabrizio R. , Misra Satish , Zghaib Tarek , Berger Ronald D. , Calkins Hugh , Tandri Harikrishna
Published: February 2018

Aims

Prior studies identified a relationship between epicardial bipolar and endocardial unipolar voltage. Whether the relationship is valid with smaller multielectrode mapping catheters has not been reported. We explored the association of right ventricular (RV) endocardial unipolar voltage mapping with epicardial bipolar voltage mapping using a multielectrode mapping catheter.

Methods

Electrograms from patients who underwent multielectrode endocardial and epicardial RV electroanatomical mapping during ablation procedures were analyzed. Each endocardial mapping point was matched to the corresponding nearest epicardial point. The correlation between unipolar endocardial voltage and epicardial bipolar voltage was determined. The optimal unipolar threshold to detect epicardial low voltage (< 1.0 mV) and dense scar (0.5 mV) was calculated.

Results

A total of 4,895 points were analyzed. There was a significant correlation between endocardial unipolar and epicardial bipolar voltage (Spearman rho  =  0.499, P  =  < 0.001). The extent of the correlation was inversely associated with wall thickness. The receiver operator characteristic analysis of endocardial unipolar voltage predicting epicardial bipolar voltage of < 1.0 mV and < 0.5 showed an area under the curve of 0.769 and 0.812, respectively. The endocardial unipolar voltage that had the highest sensitivity and specificity in detecting epicardial bipolar voltage of < 1.0 mV and < 0.5 mV was 3.3 mV (70.3% sensitivity, 70.3% specificity), and 2.8 mV (sensitivity 73.8%, specificity 73.3%), respectively.

Conclusion

Epicardial low voltage of the RV can be assessed by unipolar endocardial voltage using small multielectrode catheters. The strength of the association was inversely correlated with the wall thickness.
Dura to spinal cord distance at different vertebral levels in children and its implications on epidural analgesia: A retrospective MRI‐based study
Authors: Wani Tariq , Beltran Ralph , Veneziano Giorgio , AlGhamdi Faris , Azzam Hatem , Akhtar Nahida , Tumin Dmitry , Majid Yasser , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: February 2018

Background

The distance from the dura to spinal cord is not uniform at different vertebral levels. The dura to spinal cord distance may be a critical factor in avoiding the potential for neurological injury caused by needle trauma after a dural puncture. Typically, the greater the dura to spinal cord distance, the larger the potential safety margin. The objective of our study is to measure dura to spinal cord distance at two thoracic levels T6‐7, T9‐10, and one lumbar level L1‐2 using MRI images.

Methods

Eighty‐eight children under the age of 8 years old qualified for the study. The distance from dural side of ligamentum flavum to the posterior margin of the spinal cord was defined as dura to spinal cord distance. Sagittal T2‐weighted images of the thoracic and lumbar spine were used to measure the dura to spinal cord distance at the T6‐7, T9‐10, and L1‐2 interspaces. Measurements were taken perpendicular to long axis of the vertebral body at each level.

Results

The dura to spinal cord distance was 5.9 ± 1.6 mm at T6‐7 (range: 1.4‐9.9 mm), 5.0 ± 1.6 mm at T9‐10 (1.2‐8.1 mm), and 3.6 ± 1.2 mm at L1‐2 (1.2‐6.8 mm). There were no evident differences in dura to spinal cord distance by gender, age, height, or weight.

Conclusion

The present study reports that the largest dura to spinal cord distance is found at the T5‐6 level, and the shortest dura to spinal cord distance at the L1‐2 level. There appears to be substantially more room in the dorsal subarachnoid space at the thoracic level. The risk of spinal cord damage resulting from accidental epidural needle advancement may be greater in the lumbar region due to a more dorsal location of the spinal cord in the vertebral canal compared to the thoracic region.
QTL mapping and GWAS reveal candidate genes controlling capsaicinoid content in Capsicum
Authors: Han Koeun , Lee Hea‐Young , Ro Na‐Young , Hur On‐Sook , Lee Joung‐Ho , Kwon Jin‐Kyung , Kang Byoung‐Cheorl
Published: February 2018

Capsaicinoids are unique compounds produced only in peppers (Capsicum spp.). Several studies using classical quantitative trait loci (QTLs) mapping and genomewide association studies (GWAS) have identified QTLs controlling capsaicinoid content in peppers; however, neither the QTLs common to each population nor the candidate genes underlying them have been identified due to the limitations of each approach used. Here, we performed QTL mapping and GWAS for capsaicinoid content in peppers using two recombinant inbred line (RIL) populations and one GWAS population. Whole‐genome resequencing and genotyping by sequencing (GBS) were used to construct high‐density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) maps. Five QTL regions on chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 10 were commonly identified in both RIL populations over multiple locations and years. Furthermore, a total of 109 610 SNPs derived from two GBS libraries were used to analyse the GWAS population consisting of 208 C. annuum‐clade accessions. A total of 69 QTL regions were identified from the GWAS, 10 of which were co‐located with the QTLs identified from the two biparental populations. Within these regions, we were able to identify five candidate genes known to be involved in capsaicinoid biosynthesis. Our results demonstrate that QTL mapping and GBS‐GWAS represent a powerful combined approach for the identification of loci controlling complex traits.
Herpes zoster at the vaccination site in immunized healthy children
Authors: Song Hannah , Morley Keith W. , Trowbridge Ryan M. , Butler Daniel C. , Liang Marilyn G. , Gellis Stephen E. , Huang Jennifer T.
Published: February 2018

In this case series, we report seven immunized healthy children without underlying immunodeficiency who presented with herpes zoster that correlated with varicella‐zoster vaccination site. The morphology of the lesions included erythematous papules, pseudovesicles, and plaques, with associated pain in two and pruritus in three patients; systemic symptoms ranged from none to low‐grade fevers, upper respiratory symptoms, and joint pain. These cases highlight the clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic implications of herpes zoster in vaccinated children.
Who Is Afraid of the Chinese State? Evidence Calling into Question Political Fear as an Explanation for Overreporting of Political Trust
Authors: Stockmann Daniela , Esarey Ashley , Zhang Jie
Published: February 2018

Public opinion polls show that political trust tends to be higher in authoritarian regimes compared to liberal democracies. Many scholars have argued that respondents may provide false answers out of fear about repercussions by the state, thereby skewing survey results in a positive direction. Using an unobtrusive measure based on affect transfer, we find that adult participants in experiments conducted in China transfer positive affect toward the state onto evaluations of television advertisements upon mere exposure to the name of a central party institution. Participants did not have incentives to lie because they did not associate the advertisements with the state. Furthermore, people who evaluated the ads more positively upon viewing the name of the state also reported more positive levels of trust in government. Together, these findings raise doubt that Chinese misrepresent political trust in surveys out of political fear.
Evidence‐based restoration in the Anthropocene—from acting with purpose to acting for impact
Authors: Cooke Steven J. , Rous Andrew M. , Donaldson Lisa A. , Taylor Jessica J. , Rytwinski Trina , Prior Kent A. , Smokorowski Karen E. , Bennett Joseph R.
Published: February 2018

The recognition that we are in the distinct new epoch of the Anthropocene suggests the necessity for ecological restoration to play a substantial role in repairing the Earth's damaged ecosystems. Moreover, the precious yet limited resources devoted to restoration need to be used wisely. To do so, we call for the ecological restoration community to embrace the concept of evidence‐based restoration. Evidence‐based restoration involves the use of rigorous, repeatable, and transparent methods (i.e. systematic reviews) to identify and amass relevant knowledge sources, critically evaluate the science, and synthesize the credible science to yield robust policy and/or management advice needed to restore the Earth's ecosystems. There are now several examples of restoration‐relevant systematic reviews that have identified instances where restoration is entirely ineffective. Systematic reviews also serve as a tool to identify the knowledge gaps and the type of science needed (e.g. repeatable, appropriate replication, use of controls) to improve the evidence base. The restoration community, including both scientists and practitioners, needs to make evidence‐based restoration a reality so that we can move from best intentions and acting with so‐called “purpose” to acting for meaningful impact. Doing so has the potential to serve as a rallying point for reframing the Anthropocene as a so‐called “good” epoch.
A 70 Ma record of suprasolidus conditions in the large, hot, long‐duration Grenville Orogen
Authors: Turlin François , Deruy Clara , Eglinger Aurélien , Vanderhaeghe Olivier , André‐Mayer Anne‐Sylvie , Poujol Marc , Moukhsil Abdelali , Solgadi Fabien
Published: February 2018

Petrochronology of magmatic monazite and apatite from a single paragneiss leucosome derived by in situ partial melting documents the thermal evolution of the Allochthonous Belt of the central Grenville Province. Monazite records suprasolidus metamorphism from ca. 1080 to 1020 Ma under high temperature up to 850°C. Apatite from the same leucosome yields an age of 960 Ma, consistent with cooling of this crustal segment down to subsolidus conditions of ca. 450°C. A pegmatitic granite dyke, with lobate contacts, previously dated at ca. 1005 Ma (Turlin et al., ) is interpreted to intrude the paragneisses at a temperature of ca. 650°C close to the wet‐solidus. These data document slow cooling at a rate of 2–6°C/Ma for the middle crust of this part of the Grenville hinterland marked by protracted suprasolidus conditions for at least 70 Ma. It supports the definition of the Grenville Orogen as a large, hot, long‐duration orogen.
FCS‐like zinc finger 6 and 10 repress SnRK1 signalling in Arabidopsis
Authors: Jamsheer K Muhammed , Sharma Manvi , Singh Dhriti , Mannully Chanchal T. , Jindal Sunita , Shukla Brihaspati N. , Laxmi Ashverya
Published: February 2018

SNF1‐related protein kinase 1 (SnRK1) is a central regulator of plant growth during energy starvation. The FCS‐like zinc finger (FLZ) proteins have recently been identified as adaptor proteins which facilitate the interaction of SnRK1 with other proteins. In this study, we found that two starvation‐induced FLZ genes, FLZ6 and FLZ10, work as repressors of SnRK1 signalling. The reduced expression of these genes resulted in an increase in the level of SnRK1α1, which is the major catalytic subunit of SnRK1. This lead to a concomitant increase in phosphorylated protein and SnRK1 activity in the flz6 and flz10 mutants. FLZ6 and FLZ10 specifically interact with SnRK1α subunits in the cytoplasmic foci, which co‐localized with the endoplasmic reticulum. In physiological assays, similar to the SnRK1α1 overexpression line, flz mutants showed compromised growth. Further, growth promotion in response to favourable growth conditions was found to be attenuated in the mutants. The enhanced SnRK1 activity in the mutants resulted in a reduction in the level of phosphorylated RIBOSOMAL S6 KINASE and the expression of E2Fa and its targets, indicating that TARGET OF RAPAMYCIN‐dependent promotion of protein synthesis and cell cycle progression is impaired. Taken together, this study uncovers a plant‐specific modulation of SnRK1 signalling.
Comparison between the urine dipstick and the pH‐meter to assess urine pH in sheep and dogs
Authors: Athanasiou Labrini V. , Katsoulos Panagiotis D. , Katsogiannou Eleni G. , Polizopoulou Zoe S. , Diamantaki Myrto , Kamatsos Constantinos , Christodoulopoulos Georgios
Published: February 2018

Background

Urine pH is an integral part of a complete urinalysis, and is commonly measured in veterinary practice using semiquantitative reagent strips.

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare the urine pH of dogs and sheep, using visual interpretation of dipstick reactions, and using a pH‐meter as the reference method. Agreement between the 2 methods was also assessed. An additional objective was to compare the urine pH before and after centrifugation.

Methods

A total of 50 voided urine samples from sheep and 52 from dogs were collected into sterile containers. For pH measurements, 2 methods were used, a pH‐meter and urine dipstick reagent pads. Measurements were performed using urine samples before (whole urine) and after centrifugation (urine supernatant). For comparison of the 2 methods, Passing and Bablok regression analysis and Bland–Altman plots were used.

Results

The equation created to assess agreement between the 2 methods in dogs showed a constant bias at −0.14 and a positive proportional bias at 0.98. From a clinical standpoint, total bias was below and above the maximum acceptable bias in sheep and dogs, respectively. Clinically acceptable bias was also found using centrifuged urine samples in sheep, but the urine pH values before and after centrifugation were nearly identical in dogs.

Conclusion

Urine dipstick reagent pads and pH‐meters can be used interchangeably to determine urine pH in sheep without needing centrifugation. In contrast, pH‐meters provide more accurate pH measurements than urine dipstick pads in canine urine, which is not improved by centrifugation.
A systematic method for isolating, tracking and discriminating time-frequency components of bat echolocation calls
Authors: Fu Yanqing , Kloepper Laura N.
Published: February 2018

Echolocating bats can rapidly modify frequency modulation (FM) curvatures of their calls when facing challenging echolocation tasks. Frequency parameters, such as start/end/peak frequency, have often been extracted from the time-frequency domain to study the call variation. Even though this kind of signal investigation method reveals important findings, these approaches to analyze bat echolocation calls use bulk parameters, which hide subtleties in the call structure that may be important to the bat. In some cases, calls can have the same start and end frequencies but have different FM curvatures, and subsequently may influence the sensory task performance. In the present study, the authors demonstrate an algorithm using a combination of digital filters, power limited time-frequency information, derivative dynamic time warping, and agglomerative hierarchical clustering to extract and categorize the time-frequency components (TFCs) of 21 calls from Brazilian free-tailed bat (Tadarida brasiliensis) to quantitatively compare FM curvatures. The detailed curvature analysis shows an alternative perspective to look into the TFCs and hence serves as the preliminary step to understand the adaptive call design of bats.
The Precompetition Macronutrient Intake of Elite Gaelic Football Players
Authors: Cassidy Cathal , Collins Kieran , Shortall Marcus
Published: February 2018

Competition-related dietary intake has not yet been investigated in Gaelic football. The present study examined the precompetition macronutrient intake of elite male Gaelic football players. Forty players from two teams completed a food diary on the 2 days preceding competition (Day 1 and Day 2) and on the match day prior to the match (match day). Carbohydrate intake was significantly greater on Day 2 compared with Day 1, for both absolute (295 ± 98 vs. 318 ± 77 g; p = .048; −23.6 g, 95% confidence interval [−47.3, 0.2]; Cohen’s d = 0.27) and relative intake (3.4 ± 1.1 vs. 3.7 ± 1.0 g/kg; p = .027; −0.3 g/kg, 95% confidence interval [−0.6, −0.03]; Cohen’s d = 0.32). The number of players in accordance with and not in accordance with the guidelines for carbohydrate intake on Day 2 was significantly different to an expected frequency distribution, χ2(1) = 32.400; p ≤ .001; φ = 0.9, with a greater number of players not meeting the guidelines (observed N = 2 vs. 38). The number of players in accordance with and not in accordance with the recommendations for carbohydrate intake on match day was significantly different to an expected frequency distribution, χ2(1) = 8.100; p = .004; φ = 0.45, with a greater number of players meeting the guidelines (observed N = 29 vs. 11). The major finding from the current investigation was that a significantly greater number of players did not meet carbohydrate intake guidelines on the day before competition. Individualized nutritional interventions are required in order to modify the current prematch dietary intake.
Within-Day Energy Deficiency and Metabolic Perturbation in Male Endurance Athletes
Authors: Torstveit Monica Klungland , Fahrenholtz Ida , Stenqvist Thomas B. , Sylta Øystein , Melin Anna
Published: February 2018

Endurance athletes are at increased risk of relative energy deficiency associated with metabolic perturbation and impaired health. We aimed to estimate and compare within-day energy balance in male athletes with suppressed and normal resting metabolic rate (RMR) and explore whether within-day energy deficiency is associated with endocrine markers of energy deficiency. A total of 31 male cyclists, triathletes, and long-distance runners recruited from regional competitive sports clubs were included. The protocol comprised measurements of RMR by ventilated hood and energy intake and energy expenditure to predict RMRratio (measured RMR/predicted RMR), energy availability, 24-hr energy balance and within-day energy balance in 1-hr intervals, assessment of body composition by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and blood plasma analysis. Subjects were categorized as having suppressed (RMRratio < 0.90, n = 20) or normal (RMRratio > 0.90, n = 11) RMR. Despite there being no observed differences in 24-hr energy balance or energy availability between the groups, subjects with suppressed RMR spent more time in an energy deficit exceeding 400 kcal (20.9 [18.8–21.8] hr vs. 10.8 [2.5–16.4], p = .023) and had larger single-hour energy deficits compared with subjects with normal RMR (3,265 ± 1,963 kcal vs. −1,340 ± 2,439, p = .023). Larger single-hour energy deficits were associated with higher cortisol levels (r = −.499, p = .004) and a lower testosterone:cortisol ratio (r = .431, p = .015), but no associations with triiodothyronine or fasting blood glucose were observed. In conclusion, within-day energy deficiency was associated with suppressed RMR and catabolic markers in male endurance athletes.
Caffeine Consumption Is Associated With Higher Level of Physical Activity in Japanese Women
Authors: Tripette Julien , Murakami Haruka , Hara Hidemi , Kawakami Ryoko , Gando Yuko , Ohno Harumi , Miyatake Nobuyuki , Miyachi Motohiko
Published: February 2018

Caffeine has been described as a sports performance-enhancing substance. However, it is unclear whether it can increase the level of physical activity (PA) in nonathletic individuals. This study investigates the relationship between daily caffeine consumption and (a) daily PA/fitness or (b) intervention-induced changes in PA in women and men. On the basis of responses to a dietary habit questionnaire, which included items on caffeinated beverages, 1,032 Japanese adults, were categorized into lower or higher caffeine consumption groups (relative to the median caffeine consumption). In each group, daily step count; sedentary time; and light, moderate, and vigorous PA outcomes were objectively measured. Physical fitness, including peak oxygen consumption, was also evaluated. The relationship between daily caffeine consumption and the change in the levels of PA was investigated in a subgroup of 202 subjects who participated in a 1-year PA counseling intervention. Women in the higher caffeine consumption group presented higher moderate-to-vigorous PA and step count compared with their counterparts in the lower consumption group (4.0 ± 2.1 vs. 3.3 ± 2.1 MET-hr/day, p < .001; 10,335 ± 3,499 vs. 9,375 ± 3,527 steps/day, p < .001). A significant positive correlation was noted between caffeine consumption and peak oxygen consumption among women (r = .15, p < .001). No caffeine-related effects were noted in men. The lower and higher caffeine consumption groups showed no significant differences in their levels of PA at the end of the 1-year intervention. Therefore, caffeine consumption appears to be associated with higher levels of PA in Japanese women. Further studies are needed to clarify this association.
The Motivational Climate and Intrinsic Motivation in the Rehabilitation Setting
Authors: Brinkman-Majewski Rachel E. , Weiss Windee M.
Published: February 2018

Context: The motivational climate created by the athletic trainer in rehabilitation may be critical in influencing athletes’ intrinsic motivation and other psychosocial outcomes in the rehabilitation and the recovery processes. Objective: To examine intercollege athletes’ perceptions of the motivational climate in the rehabilitation setting. Specifically, examining if perceptions of the motivational climate can predict athletes’ levels of intrinsic motivation with rehabilitation as well as the relationship between perceptions of the motivational climate and athlete demographics (gender, starter status, athletic trainer gender, etc). Design: Cross-sectional, descriptive research. Setting: College sport team and athletic training center. Participants: National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II intercollege athletes from one institution (n = 187; 125 males and 62 females). Main Outcome Measures: Paper-based survey measuring mastery and performance perceptions of the motivational climate in rehabilitation, athletes’ goal orientation in sport, and athletes’ levels of motivation in rehabilitation. Results: Perceptions of a performance climate were positively related to intrinsic motivation effort–improvement (effect size = 25.34%). Perceptions of a mastery climate were positively related to interest–enjoyment and perceived competence and negatively related to tension–pressure (effect size = 39.03%). In general, female athletes, as well as athletes with a female athletic trainer, had significantly higher perceptions of mastery motivational climate effort–improvement than male athletes and athletes with male athletic trainers. While male athletes and athletes with male athletic trainers had higher perceptions of intrateam member rivalry in rehabilitation. Conclusions: The athlete’s gender and goal orientation, as well as the gender of the athletic trainer creating the motivational climate, can influence whether the environment is perceived as more mastery or performance. The recovering athletes’ perceptions of the climate in rehabilitation can, in turn, affect their intrinsic motivation toward the therapeutic interventions.
Short Proline-Rich Lipopeptide Potentiates Minocycline and Rifampin against Multidrug- and Extensively Drug-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Domalaon Ronald , Sanchak Yaroslav , Koskei Linet Cherono , Lyu Yinfeng , Zhanel George G. , Arthur Gilbert , Schweizer Frank
Published: February 2018

A series of 16 short proline-rich lipopeptides (SPRLPs) were constructed to mimic longer naturally existing proline-rich antimicrobial peptides. Antibacterial assessment revealed that lipopeptides containing hexadecanoic acid (C
16
) possess optimal antibacterial activity relative to others with shorter lipid components. SPRLPs were further evaluated for their potential to serve as adjuvants in combination with existing antibiotics to enhance antibacterial activity against drug-resistant
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
. Out of 16 prepared SPRLPs, C
12
-PRP was found to significantly potentiate the antibiotics minocycline and rifampin against multidrug- and extensively drug-resistant (MDR/XDR)
P. aeruginosa
clinical isolates. This nonhemolytic C
12
-PRP is comprised of the heptapeptide sequence PRPRPRP-NH
2
acylated to dodecanoic acid (C
12
) at the N terminus. The adjuvant potency of C
12
-PRP was apparent by its ability to reduce the MIC of minocycline and rifampin below their interpretative susceptibility breakpoints against MDR/XDR
P. aeruginosa
. An attempt to optimize C
12
-PRP through peptidomimetic modification was performed by replacing all
l
- to
d
-amino acids. C
12
-PRP demonstrated that it was amenable to optimization, since synergism with minocycline and rifampin were retained. Moreover, C
12
-PRP displayed no cytotoxicity against human liver carcinoma HepG2 and human embryonic kidney HEK-293 cell lines. Thus, the SPRLP C
12
-PRP is a lead adjuvant candidate that warrants further optimization. The discovery of agents that are able to resuscitate the activity of existing antibiotics against drug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens, especially
P. aeruginosa
, is of great clinical interest.
Conformational Occlusion of Blockade Antibody Epitopes, a Novel Mechanism of GII.4 Human Norovirus Immune Evasion
Authors: Lindesmith Lisa C. , Mallory Michael L. , Debbink Kari , Donaldson Eric F. , Brewer-Jensen Paul D. , Swann Excel W. , Sheahan Timothy P. , Graham Rachel L. , Beltramello Martina , Corti Davide , Lanzavecchia Antonio , Baric Ralph S.
Published: February 2018

In this study, we use norovirus virus-like particles to identify key residues of a conserved GII.4 blockade antibody epitope. Further, we identify an additional GII.4 blockade antibody epitope to be occluded, with antibody access governed by temperature and particle dynamics. These findings provide additional support for particle conformation-based presentation of binding residues mediated by a particle “breathing core.” Together, these data suggest that limiting antibody access to blockade antibody epitopes may be a frequent mechanism of immune evasion for GII.4 human noroviruses. Mapping blockade antibody epitopes, the interaction between adjacent epitopes on the particle, and the breathing core that mediates antibody access to epitopes provides greater mechanistic understanding of epitope camouflage strategies utilized by human viral pathogens to evade immunity.
Unique case of gyrate atrophy with a well-preserved electroretinogram (ERG)
Authors: Jasani Kirti M , Parry Neil R A , Black Graeme , Kelly Simon P
Published: February 2018

Gyrate atrophy is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by a mutation in the ornithine-δ-amino transferase gene. We present an interesting case of a 33-year-old woman who presented with increasing myopia, nyctalopia and failing vision. Examination revealed posterior subscapsular cataracts, narrowed peripheral visual fields and scalloped atrophic peripheral chorioretinal lesions. Blood investigations showed a raised plasma ornithine level at 917 μmol/L (normal range: 32–88 μmol/L) confirming the diagnosis of gyrate atrophy. The patient, despite not tolerating dietary treatment, had retained central vision over a follow-up period of 18 years. The electroretinogram, which normally diminishes with disease progression, was still nearly normal when last tested at 16 years follow-up. Genetic testing did not reveal any novel mutation that could account for this variation.
CPT2 downregulation adapts HCC to lipid-rich environment and promotes carcinogenesis via acylcarnitine accumulation in obesity
Authors: Fujiwara Naoto , Nakagawa Hayato , Enooku Kenichiro , Kudo Yotaro , Hayata Yuki , Nakatsuka Takuma , Tanaka Yasuo , Tateishi Ryosuke , Hikiba Yohko , Misumi Kento , Tanaka Mariko , Hayashi Akimasa , Shibahara Junji , Fukayama Masashi , Arita Junichi , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Hirschfield Hadassa , Hoshida Yujin , Hirata Yoshihiro , Otsuka Motoyuki , Tateishi Keisuke , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: February 2018

Objective

Metabolic reprogramming of tumour cells that allows for adaptation to their local environment is a hallmark of cancer. Interestingly, obesity-driven and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)-driven hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mouse models commonly exhibit strong steatosis in tumour cells as seen in human steatohepatitic HCC (SH-HCC), which may reflect a characteristic metabolic alteration.

Design

Non-tumour and HCC tissues obtained from diethylnitrosamine-injected mice fed either a normal or a high-fat diet (HFD) were subjected to comprehensive metabolome analysis, and the significance of obesity-mediated metabolic alteration in hepatocarcinogenesis was evaluated.

Results

The extensive accumulation of acylcarnitine species was seen in HCC tissues and in the serum of HFD-fed mice. A similar increase was found in the serum of patients with NASH-HCC. The accumulation of acylcarnitine could be attributed to the downregulation of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 2 (CPT2), which was also seen in human SH-HCC. CPT2 downregulation induced the suppression of fatty acid β-oxidation, which would account for the steatotic changes in HCC. CPT2 knockdown in HCC cells resulted in their resistance to lipotoxicity by inhibiting the Src-mediated JNK activation. Additionally, oleoylcarnitine enhanced sphere formation by HCC cells via STAT3 activation, suggesting that acylcarnitine accumulation was a surrogate marker of CPT2 downregulation and directly contributed to hepatocarcinogenesis. HFD feeding and carnitine supplementation synergistically enhanced HCC development accompanied by acylcarnitine accumulation in vivo.

Conclusion

In obesity-driven and NASH-driven HCC, metabolic reprogramming mediated by the downregulation of CPT2 enables HCC cells to escape lipotoxicity and promotes hepatocarcinogenesis.
Prevalence and correlates of screen time among Brazilian adolescents: findings from a country-wide survey
Authors: Schaan Camila Wohlgemuth , Cureau Felipe Vogt , Bloch Katia Vergetti , de Carvalho Kênia Mara Baiocchi , Ekelund Ulf , Schaan Beatriz D.
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the distribution, prevalence, and correlates of excessive screen time (>2 h/day) among Brazilian adolescents. The Study of Cardiovascular Risks in Adolescents (ERICA) is a national, school-based, cross-sectional multicenter study. Information about time spent in front of screens was assessed by questionnaire. Poisson regression models were used to examine the associations between following correlates (region, sex, age, skin color, income, Internet access, and number of TVs at home) and excessive screen time. A total of 66 706 Brazilian adolescents (aged 12–17 years) were included. The overall mean time in front of screens was 3.25 h/day (95% confidence interval (95%CI): 3.20–3.31) and the prevalence of excessive screen time was 57.3% (95%CI: 55.9–58.6). Moreover, excessive screen time also differs across Brazilian regions, being higher in Southeast and South, respectively. In adjusted models stratified by region, the socioeconomic status was associated with excessive screen time in North, Northeast, and Midwest. In all regions, having a computer with Internet access was associated with higher prevalence of excessive screen time. In conclusion, prevalence of excessive screen time in Brazilian adolescents is high. It presents regional variations and facility for Internet access.
Effects of copper on the composition and diversity of microbial communities in laboratory-scale swine manure composting
Authors: Yin Yanan , Gu Jie , Wang Xiaojuan , Tuo Xiaxia , Zhang Kaiyu , Zhang Li , Guo Aiyun , Zhang Xin
Published: February 2018

This study investigated the effects of adding copper at 3 treatment levels (0 (control: CK), 200 (low: L), and 2000 (high: H) mg·kg−1 treatments) on the bacterial communities during swine manure composting. The abundances of the bacteria were determined by quantitative PCR and their compositions were evaluated by high-throughput sequencing. The results showed that the abundance of bacteria was inhibited by the H treatment during days 7–35, and principal component analysis clearly separated the H treatment from the CK and L treatments. Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria were the dominant bacterial taxa, and a high copper concentration decreased the abundances of bacteria that degrade cellulose and lignin (e.g., class Bacilli and genus Truepera), especially in the mesophilic and thermophilic phases. Moreover, network analysis showed that copper might alter the co-occurrence patterns of bacterial communities by changing the properties of the networks and the keystone taxa, and increase the competition by increasing negative associations between bacteria during composting. Temperature, water-soluble carbohydrates, and copper significantly affected the variations in the bacterial community according to redundancy analysis. The copper content mainly contributed to the bacterial community in the thermophilic and cooling phases, where it had positive relationships with potentially pathogenic bacteria (e.g., Corynebacterium_1 and Acinetobacter).