bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphological and Molecular Redefinition of Euplotes platystoma Dragesco & Dragesco‐Kernéis, 1986 and Aspidisca lynceus (Müller,1773) Ehrenberg, 1859, with Reconsideration of a “Well‐known” Euplotes Ciliate, Euplotes harpa Stein, 1859 (Ciliophora, Euplotida)
Authors: Lian Chunyu , Luo Xiaotian , Fan Xinpeng , Huang Jie , Yu Yuhe , Bourland William , Song Weibo
Published: January 2018

We documented the morphology, infraciliature, silverline system, and molecular data of two euplotid species isolated from China, including two populations of the poorly known Euplotes platystoma Dragesco & Dragesco‐Kernéis, and the previously well described Aspidisca lynceus (Müller, ) Ehrenberg, 1830. Based on the information available, an improved diagnosis of Euplotes platystoma is given, including: a narrow adoral zone with 44–68 membranelles, 10 frontoventral, 5 transverse, 2 left marginal and 2 caudal cirri, 11–13 dorsal kineties with 17–25 dikinetids in the mid‐dorsal row, and dorsal silverline system of the double‐eurystomus type. The Chinese population of Aspidisca lynceus closely resembles previously described populations. Phylogenetic analyses inferred from SSU rDNA sequences show that E. platystoma is closely related with E. neapolitanus, and the internal position of A. lynceus within this genus is still not robust. A reconsideration of the “well‐known” Euplotes harpa and a comparison of all SSU rDNA sequences of E. harpa in GenBank are provided. We speculate that the sequences available from GenBank under the name of E. harpa are very likely from misidentified materials, that is, the identity of the species currently associated with the SSU rDNA of this “well‐known” form in molecular databases requires further confirmation.
Application of natural plant extracts as colorants, preservatives, and anti‐listerial agents in processed fish products
Authors: Tayel Ahmed A. , Almabady Nashwa A. , Sorour Noha M. , Diab Amany M.
Published: January 2018

The anti‐listerial activity of various plant extracts was investigated, qualitatively and quantitatively against Listeria monocytogenes strains. The extracts of Punica granatum peels (PPE) and Hibiscus sabdariffa calyxes (RCE) exhibited the most potent antibacterial activity. The application of PPE and RCE, as colorant, preservative, and antimicrobial agents, was conducted for the manufacturing of fish products (burger and surimi). The two extracts could effectively enhance the microbial, sensory, and shelf life attributes of prepared fish products. The combination of the extracts at their inhibitory concentrations lead to complete inhibition of inoculated L. monocytogenes cells, enhancing the sensory attributes of treated fish products and increasing panelists' preference.

Practical applications

Foodborne pathogens' transmission via fish products, for example, L. monocytogenes, is hazardous and must be overcome efficiently and safely. The substitution of synthetic and chemical food additives and preservatives with natural agents is a general request from all. Results of study supported the practical application of powerful anti‐listerial plant extracts, for example, pomegranate peels and rosella calyxes, for the control of L. monocytogenes, coloring and improving sensorial attributes of processed fish products, burger and surimi.
Detection of foodborne viruses in ready‐to‐eat meat products and meat processing plants
Authors: Markantonis Nikolas , Vasickova Petra , Kubankova Monika , Mikel Pavel , Botsaris George
Published: January 2018

Several studies have confirmed the presence of foodborne viruses in different food products throughout the world. There is accumulating data suggesting that the economic burden of foodborne viral infections is rising, making the understanding and monitoring of their prevalence a necessity, for the modern food industry. The objective of this study was to examine ready‐to‐eat meat products and environmental samples originated from meat processing plants in Cyprus, for four foodborne viruses: norovirus (NoV GGI, NoV GII), rotavirus, hepatitis A virus, and hepatitis E virus. A total of 48 swab samples and 42 different pork meat products from two plants were analyzed in parallel. The reverse transcription real‐time polymerase chain reaction revealed two swab samples from the same plant positive for norovirus GGI. The detection of norovirus on a slicer machine and on the hands of a worker, suggest that foodborne viruses can be present in meat processing environments.

Practical applications

There is an increasing need to better understand the prevalence of foodborne viruses in the environment and food, given the rise of viral foodborne outbreaks throughout the world, as reported by World Health Organization. Meat products form an important exposure vehicle to humans either directly, through the consumption of raw products, or as a result of cross‐contamination in food processing plants. This is the first report in Cyprus illustrating the presence of foodborne viruses in meat processing plants and the possible impact in public health, through the consumption of ready‐to‐eat meat products.
Occurrence of Campylobacter in raw chicken and beef from retail outlets in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Lopes Graciela Volz , Landgraf Mariza , Destro Maria Teresa
Published: January 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of Campylobacter in meat samples (120 chicken and 100 beef) and determine the antimicrobial susceptibility of the isolates. A total of 220 samples from retail outlets were purchased in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Campylobacter detection was performed according to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) method ISO‐10272‐1:2006. A PCR assay based on nucleotide sequence differences in the lpxA gene was used to distinguish between C. jejuni and C. coli. Antimicrobial resistance was determined by agar disc diffusion method. Campylobacter was isolated from 17 (7.7%) of 220 samples. Breast fillets exhibited the highest contamination rate (25%; 5/20), followed by wings (15%; 6/40), whole leg (15%; 3/20), drumstick (10%; 2/20), and drumette (5%; 1/20). All beef samples were negative for Campylobacter. The most prevalent species found was C. coli, followed by C. jejuni. The isolates were commonly resistant to nalidixic acid and ciprofloxacin. Data obtained confirm the need of monitoring and control of Campylobacter in poultry production chain.

Practical applications

Campylobacter spp. cause foodborne illness in humans commonly through the consumption of contaminated poultry meat. Although Brazil is the world's largest poultry meat exporter, data regarding this pathogen are limited in our country. In the present study, chicken cuts purchased from retail stores in São Paulo may occasionally be contaminated with Campylobacter. This underline the importance of surveillance of foodborne pathogens in retail meats, and the data can contribute to risk analyses or control measures in the meat production chain.
Falls in Cognitively Impaired Older Adults: Implications for Risk Assessment And Prevention
Authors: Montero‐Odasso Manuel , Speechley Mark
Published: January 2018

Objectives

To provide an overview of the role of cognition in falls, with potential implications for managing and preventing falls in older adults.

Design

Review.

Setting

Observational and interventional studies addressing the role of cognition on falls.

Participants

Community‐dwelling older adults (65 years and older).

Measurements

The relationship between gait and cognition in aging and neurodegeneration was reviewed in the medical literature to highlight the role of brain motor control deficits in fall risk. The benefits of dual‐task gait assessments as a marker of fall risk were reviewed. Therapeutic approaches for reducing falls by improving certain aspects of cognition were appraised.

Results

Low performance in attention and executive function are associated with gait slowing, instability, and future falls. Drug‐enhancement of cognition may reduce falls in Parkinson's disease, and cognitive training, dual‐task training, and virtual reality modalities are promising to improve mobility in sedentary older adults and in those with cognitive impairment and dementia.

Conclusion

Falls remain common in older people, with higher prevalence and morbidity in those who are cognitively impaired. Disentangling the mechanism and contribution of cognitive deficits in fall risk may open new treatment approaches. Mounting evidence supports that cognitive therapies help reduce falls.
FRUCTOKINASE‐LIKE PROTEIN 1 interacts with TRXz to regulate chloroplast development in rice
Authors: He Lei , Zhang Sen , Qiu Zhennan , Zhao Juan , Nie Wendan , Lin Haiyan , Zhu Zhengge , Zeng Dali , Qian Qian , Zhu Li
Published: January 2018

Chloroplast genes are transcribed by the plastid‐encoded RNA polymerase (PEP) or nucleus‐encoded RNA polymerase. FRUCTOKINASE‐LIKE PROTEINS (FLNs) are phosphofructokinase‐B (PfkB)‐type carbohydrate kinases that act as part of the PEP complex; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying FLN activity in rice remain elusive. Previously, we identified and characterized a heat‐stress sensitive albino (hsa1) mutant in rice. Map‐based cloning revealed that HSA1 encodes a putative OsFLN2. Here, we further demonstrated that knockdown or knockout of the OsFLN1, a close homolog of HSA1/OsFLN2, considerably inhibits chloroplast biogenesis and the fln1 knockout mutants, created by clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and CRISPR‐associate protein 9, exhibit severe albino phenotype and seedling lethality. Moreover, OsFLN1 localizes to the chloroplast. Yeast two‐hybrid, pull‐down and bimolecular fluorescence complementation experiments revealed that OsFLN1 and HSA1/OsFLN2 interact with THIOREDOXINZ (OsTRXz) to regulate chloroplast development. In agreement with this, knockout of OsTRXz resulted in a similar albino and seedling lethality phenotype to that of the fln1 mutants. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunoblot analysis revealed that the transcription and translation of PEP‐dependent genes were strongly inhibited in fln1 and trxz mutants, indicating that loss of OsFLN1, HSA1/OsFLN2, or OsTRXz function perturbs the stability of the transcriptionally active chromosome complex and PEP activity. These results show that OsFLN1 and HSA1/OsFLN2 contribute to chloroplast biogenesis and plant growth.
The quality of life of children with severe developmental disabilities
Authors: Ncube B. L. , Perry A. , Weiss J. A.
Published: January 2018

Background

Research examining the quality of life (QoL) of children with severe developmental disabilities (SDD) is limited. The present study examines parent perceptions of child QoL in children with SDD compared with typically developing (TD) children and then examines predictors of QoL for the SDD group.

Method

Parents of 246 children with SDD (aged 4 to 19 years) and 210 TD children (aged 4 to 18 years) responded to an online survey. QoL was measured using a composite variable composed of the child's happiness, achievement of potential and friendship quality.

Results

Children with DD had lower QoL ratings than TD children. In children with DD, higher QoL was related to younger age, higher adaptive skills, lower maladaptive behaviour, lower parent psychological distress and higher satisfaction with the child's education.

Conclusions

Interventions to promote positive outcomes for children with SDD should target both characteristics of the individual and the environment.
Prevalence, Defining Characteristics, and Related Factors of the Nursing Diagnosis of Anxiety in Hospitalized Medical‐Surgical Patients
Authors: Sanson Gianfranco , Perrone Annalisa , Fascì Adriana , D'Agostino Fabio
Published: January 2018

Purpose

To document the prevalence of the nursing diagnosis of anxiety in hospital patients, based on its level of severity, defining characteristics (DCs), and other related factors, and to identify the key DCs that serve as predictors of clinically significant anxiety (CSA).

Design

Cross‐sectional study. We enrolled 116 consecutive adult patients hospitalized from October 10 to 16, 2016, in medical‐surgical wards within the first 48 hr of admission.

Methods

The potential DCs and related factors of anxiety were collected based on the NANDA International terminology. Anxiety was considered clinically significant when presenting at moderate, severe, or panic level. The differences in DC prevalence among patients having or not having CSA were analyzed by unpaired student's t‐test. Multivariate analysis was used to examine the independent association between the DCs and CSA.

Findings

The prevalence of CSA was 36.2% and was significantly higher in patients who were older, female, and taking anxiolytic drugs, and among those who had cancer. The most frequent related factor for CSA was major change in health status. In the logistic regression, the presence of the DCs helplessness, altered attention or concentration, and anguish independently increased the odds of having CSA, whereas subjects presenting with Diminished ability to problem‐solve had about a 96% reduction in the likelihood to suffer from such a condition.

Conclusions

A high prevalence of CSA among medical‐surgical patients was shown. Furthermore, a critical cluster of DCs useful to identify CSA was found.

Clinical Relevance

The ability to accurately diagnose CSA should help prescribe and deliver the appropriate nursing interventions.
The science behind skin care: Moisturizers
Authors: Draelos Zoe D
Published: January 2018

Moisturizers provide functional skin benefits, such as making the skin smooth and soft, increasing skin hydration, and improving skin optical characteristics; however, moisturizers also function as vehicles to deliver ingredients to the skin. These ingredients may be vitamins, botanical antioxidants, peptides, skin‐lightening agents, botanical anti‐inflammatories, or exfoliants. This discussion covers the science of moisturizers.
Radial versus femoral approach for same‐day inter‐facility transfer for percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Israeli Zeev , Lavi Shahar , Bertand Olivier F. , Mamas Mamas A. , Bagur Rodrigo
Published: January 2018

Background

The use of radial approach for coronary angiography, followed by same‐day inter‐facility transfer for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has not yet been evaluated.

Objectives

We sought to assess the safety and feasibility of using the transradial as compared to the transfemoral approach in patients undergoing diagnostic angiogram with same‐day transfer to a PCI facility.

Methods

Patients that underwent diagnostic coronary angiography between January 2011 and June 2017 in a referring facility, and were transferred for same‐day PCI were included. Patients’ demographics, as well as procedural data and in‐hospital outcome, were collected.

Results

Three hundred fifty‐two participants were included. Of these, 36 (10.2%) patients received transradial access. Patients in the transradial group were older (68 ± 10 vs 62 ± 12 years, P = 0.007), and received a significantly higher total dose of heparin including both, diagnostic and PCI procedures (5935 ± 1865 vs 10029 ± 2771 units, P < 0.001). None of the transradial patients experienced bleeding or access‐related complications. In the transfemoral group, 9 (3%) vascular‐access complications were recorded. Contrast volume was lower for transradial patients (177 ± 47 vs 216 ± 75 mL, P < 0.001). A higher proportion of outpatients were discharged from the PCI‐center the same day after transradial procedures (53% vs 1.3%, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Transradial access for inter‐facility transfer for PCI after diagnostic angiogram appears safe and feasible, without increasing the risk for ischemic hand complications. Transradial access was associated with fewer bleeding and vascular access‐site complications, and with a higher likelihood for a same‐day discharge home in outpatients.
Race‐Ethnicity, Union Status, and Change in Body Mass Index in Young Adulthood
Authors: Kroeger Rhiannon A. , Frank Reanne
Published: January 2018

This study used data from three waves of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health and fixed effects regression to consider whether associations between change in union status and change in body mass index (BMI) were moderated by race‐ethnicity. The results indicated that intimate unions were differentially associated with gains in BMI along racial‐ethnic lines, especially for women. When compared with White women, marriage was associated with larger increases in BMI for Black, Hispanic, and Multiracial women, and cohabitation was associated with larger increases for Black and Hispanic women. In contrast, marriage and cohabitation were associated with less weight gain for Asian when compared with White women. Among men, racial‐ethnic differences in the relationship between union status and BMI were similarly patterned but less pronounced. The results suggest that marital status further exacerbates racial‐ethnic disparities in BMI from adolescence to young adulthood.
Analysis of Brain SPECT Images Coregistered with MRI in Patients with Epilepsy: Comparison of Three Methods
Authors: Long Zaiyang , Hanson Dennis P. , Mullan Brian P. , Hunt Christopher H. , Holmes David R. , Brinkmann Benjamin H. , O'Connor Michael K.
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

SISCOM and STATISCOM were clinically proved to be effective for ictal/inter‐ictal single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) analysis coregistered with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for seizure localization. Recently, a software package also became available for this analysis. This study aimed to investigate and compare the performance of these analysis methods for seizure localization.

METHODS

A total of 378 patients who underwent 99mTc‐ethyl cysteinate dimer (ECD) SPECT scans were retrospectively reviewed and 28 remained after applying exclusion criteria. Their SPECT and MRI images were analyzed with SISCOM (with z‐score of 1.5 and 2), STATISCOM, and MIMneuro, resulting in a total of 112 image data sets. Two experienced radiologists participated in the blind review process using a custom tool and they can mark up to two hyper‐ and/or hypoperfusion regions. Their review results were analyzed using the Jackknife Free Response Receiver‐Operating Characteristics (JAFROC) test and the JAFROC figure‐of‐merit (FoM) was reported for each method. The interobserver agreement was also assessed using Cohen's kappa test.

RESULTS

Based on the readers’ two choices, averaged FoM was 85.7%, 83.9%, 66.1%, and 51.8% for STATISCOM, MIMneuro, SISCOM (z‐score = 2), and SISCOM (z‐score = 1.5), respectively. The average confidence rating was 2.5, 2.3, 1.6, and 1.1 for STATISCOM, MIMneuro, SISCOM (z‐score = 2), and SISCOM (z‐score = 1.5), respectively. For interobserver agreement, kappa was .742 for STATISCOM, .816 for MIMneuro, .517 for SISCOM (z‐score = 2), and .441 for SISCOM (z‐score = 1.5; all P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that STATISCOM showed the best performance for seizure localization, which was closely followed by MIMneuro. In addition, MIMneuro was not inferior to SISCOM with either z‐score.
Color in Zirconia‐Based Restorations and Related Factors: A Literature Review
Authors: Tabatabaian Farhad
Published: January 2018

Zirconia ceramic is a popular trend in esthetic and restorative dentistry. Computer‐aided design/computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems have been well developed to fabricate zirconia frameworks and restorations with acceptable mechanical properties. Zirconia ceramics have excellent optical characteristics; however, achieving optimal esthetic outcomes with zirconia‐based restorations is still challenging due to multiple effective factors on the final color. These factors are different layers of a zirconia‐based restoration and its underlying structures including: dental substrate, cement, zirconia coping, veneering ceramic, and glaze. Moreover, the laboratory procedure of these restorations’ fabrication is another effective factor on the resultant color. Unpredictable esthetic results may be obtained without estimation of the role of each factor and its effect on the final color. This review discussed the color aspect of zirconia‐based restorations according to these factors and based on the literature. In the past decade, investigators have been concerned with the shade reproduction with zirconia‐based restorations; however, there are no sufficient clinical guidelines on how to reproduce the appearance of natural teeth with these restorations. Zirconia‐based restorations have presented a new chance for accomplishing optimum esthetics. Nonetheless further investigations are needed on these restorations to establish clinical guidelines on esthetics.
What Leads to Loneliness? An Integrative Model of Social, Motivational, and Emotional Approaches in Adolescents
Authors: Gallardo Laura O. , Martín‐Albo Jose , Barrasa Angel
Published: January 2018

Loneliness has been linked to many physical and mental health problems, especially during adolescence. From evolutionary, social needs, and cognitive approaches, this study examined whether emotional repair, relatedness need, and peer‐rated indicators of relations behave in predicting loneliness, considering all approaches together. The sample consisted of 373 adolescents measured longitudinally at three time points. Results of a cross‐lagged panel design found that, considering all the influences together, relatedness need showed the highest strength to predict loneliness. Furthermore, adolescents who were accepted by their peers and whose relatedness need was satisfied activated emotional regulation which additionally produced a decrease in prospective feelings of loneliness. In addition, loneliness has been shown to be a consequence of these variables.
Co‐causation of reduced newborn size by maternal undernutrition, infections, and inflammation
Authors: Ashorn Per , Hallamaa Lotta , Allen Lindsay H. , Ashorn Ulla , Chandrasiri Upeksha , Deitchler Megan , Doyle Ronan , Harjunmaa Ulla , Jorgensen Josh M. , Kamiza Steve , Klein Nigel , Maleta Kenneth , Nkhoma Minyanga , Oaks Brietta M. , Poelman Basho , Rogerson Stephen J. , Stewart Christine P. , Zeilani Mamane , Dewey Kathryn G.
Published: January 2018

More than 20 million babies are born with low birthweight annually. Small newborns have an increased risk for mortality, growth failure, and other adverse outcomes. Numerous antenatal risk factors for small newborn size have been identified, but individual interventions addressing them have not markedly improved the health outcomes of interest. We tested a hypothesis that in low‐income settings, newborn size is influenced jointly by multiple maternal exposures and characterized pathways associating these exposures with newborn size. This was a prospective cohort study of pregnant women and their offspring nested in an intervention trial in rural Malawi. We collected information on maternal and placental characteristics and used regression analyses, structural equation modelling, and random forest models to build pathway maps for direct and indirect associations between these characteristics and newborn weight‐for‐age Z‐score and length‐for‐age Z‐score. We used multiple imputation to infer values for any missing data. Among 1,179 pregnant women and their babies, newborn weight‐for‐age Z‐score was directly predicted by maternal primiparity, body mass index, and plasma alpha‐1‐acid glycoprotein concentration before 20 weeks of gestation, gestational weight gain, duration of pregnancy, placental weight, and newborn length‐for‐age Z‐score (p < .05). The latter 5 variables were interconnected and were predicted by several more distal determinants. In low‐income conditions like rural Malawi, maternal infections, inflammation, nutrition, and certain constitutional factors jointly influence newborn size. Because of this complex network, comprehensive interventions that concurrently address multiple adverse exposures are more likely to increase mean newborn size than focused interventions targeting only maternal nutrition or specific infections.
Task Complexity and Modality: Exploring Learners’ Experience From the Perspective of Flow
Authors: CHO MINYOUNG
Published: January 2018

Despite an increased awareness of language learner performance in task‐based instruction, little is known about how learners perceive and respond to different task factors. This study investigates the effects of task complexity and modality on (a) learners’ perception of task difficulty, skill, and its balance, and on (b) learners’ task experience. It adopts Csikszentmihalyi's (1975) construct of flow, characterized by interest, attention, and control. It further examines how difficulty–skill balance predicts flow experience. In a repeated measures design, 141 learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) performed 4 argumentative tasks that differed in task complexity (+/– elements) and modality (speaking vs. writing), and completed a questionnaire asking about their perception of task difficulty, skills, and task experience. A repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance showed that, although both task complexity and modality affected learner perception of task difficulty, only modality influenced perceived skill and flow; writing provided more favorable task experiences regarding the difficulty–skill balance and flow. Furthermore, difficulty–skill balance significantly predicted flow experience, but the condition seems insufficient for affecting flow.
Motivation, Comprehensibility, and Accentedness in L2 Spanish: Investigating Motivation as a Time‐Varying Predictor of Pronunciation Development
Authors: NAGLE CHARLES
Published: January 2018

This study examined relationships between language learning motivation and the longitudinal development of second language (L2) pronunciation. Twenty‐six English‐speaking learners of Spanish recorded a simplified picture description task 5 times over a year‐long period spanning their 2nd, 3rd, and 4th semesters of Spanish language instruction. Learners also completed a quantitative motivation survey based on the L2 Motivational Self System and an open‐ended questionnaire on their language learning beliefs once per semester, yielding 3 measurements. Eighteen native Spanish listeners rated the learners’ clips for comprehensibility and accentedness. Although mixed modeling of the motivation data revealed a slightly negative trajectory for motivational subcomponents, qualitative analyses of individual patterns indicated that learners were beginning to formulate and evaluate language learning goals that were set into a larger framework of personal and professional objectives. Mixed effects models of the pronunciation data demonstrated that both comprehensibility and accentedness improved over time. When the quantitative motivation measures were integrated into the modeling process as time‐varying fixed effects, effort was significantly related to accentedness, which suggests that effort may have played an increasingly important role in shaping learners’ pronunciation over time.
Clinical and research strategies for limb‐girdle congenital myasthenic syndromes
Authors: O'Connor Emily , Töpf Ana , Zahedi René P. , Spendiff Sally , Cox Daniel , Roos Andreas , Lochmüller Hanns
Published: January 2018

Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS) are a group of rare disorders that cause fatigable muscle weakness due to defective signal transmission at the neuromuscular junction, a specialized synapse between peripheral motor neurons and their target muscle fibers. There are now over 30 causative genes that have been reported for CMS. Of these, there are 10 that are associated with a limb‐girdle pattern of muscle weakness and are thus classed as LG‐CMS. Next‐generation sequencing and advanced methods of data sharing are likely to uncover further genes that are associated with similar clinical phenotypes, contributing to better diagnosis and effective treatment of LG‐CMS patients. This review highlights clinical and pathological hallmarks of LG‐CMS in relation to the underlying genetic defects and pathways. Tailored animal and cell models are essential to elucidate the exact function and pathomechanisms at the neuromuscular synapse that underlie LG‐CMS. The integration of genomics and proteomics data derived from these models and patients reveals new and often unexpected insights that are relevant beyond the rare genetic disorder of LG‐CMS and may extend to the functioning of mammalian synapses in health and disease more generally.
A preliminary study of pulmonary vein implant applicability and safety as a potential ablation platform in a follow‐up study in pigs
Authors: Vandecasteele Tim , Schauvliege Stijn , Philpott Matthew , Clement Eli , van Loon Gunther , Vera Lisse , Boussy Tim , van Bergen Thomas , Van Den Broeck Wim , Cornillie Pieter , Van Langenhove Glenn
Published: January 2018

Background

Recurrence of atrial fibrillation after an ablation procedure remains a major problem which emphasizes the need for improved pulmonary vein isolation techniques.

Aims

The aim of this study was to describe an implantation procedure of a pulmonary vein‐stent which may possibly serve as an ablation technique in the future and to examine stent safety in a follow‐up study in pigs.

Methods and results

Eight pigs were catheterized and nine self‐expanding nitinol stents were implanted through a transfemoral or transatrial approach into the antra of the pulmonary veins. After 3 months’ follow‐up, the animals were euthanized for further examination. During the follow‐up phase, no complications were observed. Absence of thrombus formation or pulmonary vein wall dissection was noticed during anatomical and histological evaluation of the heart‐lung packages. All implants were almost completely covered by neo‐intima, of which thickness varied between 0.2 and 3.9 mm.

Conclusions

Stents can safely be positioned and deployed into the antra of the pulmonary veins without any acute or long‐term (3 months) adverse effects. In the future, these implants could function as a permanently implanted ablation device and provide new therapeutic strategies for pulmonary vein isolation in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Compatibility of common IV drugs with 6% hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.42 and 4% gelatin
Authors: Heiderich Sebastian , auf der Springe Anna , Jürgens Jonas , Koppert Wolfgang , Leffler Andreas , Sümpelmann Robert , Dennhardt Nils
Published: January 2018

Background

Acetate‐containing colloid infusion solutions are recommended to recover normovolemia during pediatric anesthesia. Until now, no studies investigating the compatibility with common anesthetic drugs were available.

Aims

This in vitro study was conducted to reveal possible incompatibilities between common anesthetic drugs and the acetate‐containing colloid infusion solutions 6% hydroxyethyl starch and 4% gelatin with normal saline as control.

Methods

The colloid infusion solutions were mixed 1:1 with 29 common intravenous drugs in concentrations used in daily clinical practice. Macroscopically visible changes as well as electrical conductivity, pH, and turbidimetric light diffusion at 405 nm were measured immediately after mixing and subsequently 30 and 60 minutes later. All experiments were conducted in triplicate.

Results

Fifty‐nine of the 87 colloid infusion‐drug mixtures showed no significant changes in pH, electrical conductivity, turbidimetrically detectable light diffusion, or macroscopic appearance after mixing with hydroxyethyl starch, gelatin, and NaCl 0.9%. Fifteen mixtures showed equivocal reactions, and 13 mixtures showed incompatibility reactions.

Conclusion

Most of the tested drugs did not show observable incompatibility reactions. However, some common drugs are highly incompatible with colloid infusion solutions: gelatin (cefazolin, diazepam, midazolam, phenytoin, vancomycin), hydroxyethyl starch (diazepam, midazolam, phenytoin, thiopental), and NaCl 0.9% (diazepam, ketamine (S), phenytoin, thiopental). These combinations should be avoided in clinical practice in case there are fewer intravenous lines available than needed.
Comparison of intubation conditions with CMAC Miller videolaryngoscope and conventional Miller laryngoscope in lateral position in infants: A prospective randomized trial
Authors: Jain Divya , Mehta Swati , Gandhi Komal , Arora Suman , Parikh Badal , Abas Muneer
Published: January 2018

Background

Endotracheal intubation in lateral position in infants is a challenge. This difficulty may be surmounted to some extent by using videolaryngoscopes but the routine use of these devices as a tool to secure the airway in lateral position remains unevaluated. Therefore, we conducted a prospective, randomized controlled trial to compare the intubation conditions achieved with the CMAC videolaryngoscope and the Miller Laryngoscope in lateral position in infants. We hypothesized that CMAC videolaryngoscope would provide a better laryngoscopic view and reduce the time to intubation compared to the Miller blade.

Methods

Sixty‐four children aged <1 year, belonging to American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I‐III requiring endotracheal intubation were randomized to undergo tracheal intubation with either the Miller laryngoscope (n = 32) or the CMAC videolaryngoscope (n = 32) in left lateral position. Anesthesia was induced with sevoflurane or thiopentone 5‐8 mg/kg IV and atracurium 0.5 mg/kg IV. Total time taken to intubate was assessed as the primary outcome. Laryngoscopic view, intubation difficulty score, success rate of tracheal intubation, number of attempts, maneuvers used, and any airway complications were recorded as secondary outcomes.

Results

The difference in the mean time to intubate (95% confidence interval) between the Miller and CMAC group was 6.1 (1.7‐10.4) seconds. Furthermore, the CMAC videolaryngoscope provided a better laryngoscopic view compared to the conventional Miller blade. In addition, the Intubation Difficulty Scale score was less in the CMAC videolaryngoscope group.

Conclusion

The CMAC videolaryngoscope decreases the time taken to intubate and reduces the intubation difficulty when compared to the Miller laryngoscope. Therefore, the CMAC videolaryngoscope may be more useful device when intubating the trachea of infants in the lateral position.
The Solar Ultraviolet Environment at the Ocean
Authors: Mobley Curtis D. , Diffey Brian L.
Published: January 2018

Atmospheric and oceanic radiative transfer models were used to compute spectral radiances between 285 and 400 nm onto horizontal and vertical plane surfaces over water. The calculations kept track of the contributions by the sun's direct beam, by diffuse‐sky radiance, by radiance reflected from the sea surface and by water‐leaving radiance. Clear, hazy and cloudy sky conditions were simulated for a range of solar zenith angles, wind speeds and atmospheric ozone concentrations. The radiances were used to estimate erythemal exposures due to the sun and sky, as well as from radiation reflected by the sea surface and backscattered from the water column. Diffuse‐sky irradiance is usually greater than direct‐sun irradiance at wavelengths below 330 nm, and reflected and water‐leaving irradiance accounts for <20% of the UV exposure on a vertical surface. Total exposure depends strongly on solar zenith angle and azimuth angle relative to the sun. Sea surface roughness affects the UV exposures by only a few percent. For very clear waters and the sun high in the sky, the UV index within the water can be >10 at depths down to two meters and >6 down to 5 m.
Analysis of Mammography Screening Policies under Resource Constraints
Authors: Cevik Mucahit , Ayer Turgay , Alagoz Oguzhan , Sprague Brian L.
Published: January 2018

Breast cancer, the leading cause of cancer death for women, can be detected at earlier stages through mammography screening. Therefore, most developed countries implemented population‐based mammography screening programs. However, cost of mammography and limited resources in terms of number of trained personnel and diagnostic machines prevent mammography screening to be adopted by many other countries. In fact, even in resource‐rich countries, there is a growing concern about cost of mammography screening. In this study, we investigate the optimal allocation of limited mammography resources to screen a population. We propose a constrained partially observable Markov decision process (CPOMDP) model that maximizes total expected quality‐adjusted life years of the patients when they are allowed only a limited number of mammography screenings. We use a variable resolution grid‐based approximation scheme to convert the CPOMDP model into a mixed‐integer linear program and conduct several numerical experiments using breast cancer epidemiology data. We observe that as mammography screening capacity decreases, patients in the 40–49 age group should be given the least priority with respect to screening. We further find that efficient allocation of available resources between patients with different risk levels leads to significant quality‐adjusted life year gains, especially for the patients with higher breast cancer risk.
Using Data and Big Data in Retailing
Authors: Fisher Marshall , Raman Ananth
Published: January 2018

In this essay, we examine how retailers can use data to make better decisions and hence, improve their performance. We have been studying retail operations for over two decades and have witnessed many, and been personally involved in a few, projects that delivered considerable value to retailers by better exploiting data. We highlight a few of these examples and also identify some other potential applications.
A Mathematical Model for Pathogen Cross‐Contamination Dynamics during the Postharvest Processing of Leafy Greens
Authors: Mokhtari Amir , Oryang David , Chen Yuhuan , Pouillot Regis , Van Doren Jane
Published: January 2018

We developed a probabilistic mathematical model for the postharvest processing of leafy greens focusing on Escherichia coli O157:H7 contamination of fresh‐cut romaine lettuce as the case study. Our model can (i) support the investigation of cross‐contamination scenarios, and (ii) evaluate and compare different risk mitigation options. We used an agent‐based modeling framework to predict the pathogen prevalence and levels in bags of fresh‐cut lettuce and quantify spread of E. coli O157:H7 from contaminated lettuce to surface areas of processing equipment. Using an unbalanced factorial design, we were able to propagate combinations of random values assigned to model inputs through different processing steps and ranked statistically significant inputs with respect to their impacts on selected model outputs. Results indicated that whether contamination originated on incoming lettuce heads or on the surface areas of processing equipment, pathogen prevalence among bags of fresh‐cut lettuce and batches was most significantly impacted by the level of free chlorine in the flume tank and frequency of replacing the wash water inside the tank. Pathogen levels in bags of fresh‐cut lettuce were most significantly influenced by the initial levels of contamination on incoming lettuce heads or surface areas of processing equipment. The influence of surface contamination on pathogen prevalence or levels in fresh‐cut bags depended on the location of that surface relative to the flume tank. This study demonstrates that developing a flexible yet mathematically rigorous modeling tool, a “virtual laboratory,” can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of individual and combined risk mitigation options.
Population and house prices in the United Kingdom
Authors: Day Creina
Published: January 2018

Real house prices rise in the United Kingdom amid growing concern of an impending correction. The rate of household formation has increased with strong population growth, due to elevated rates of natural increase and net migration, and lack of growth in average household size, due to a rise in single‐person households with population ageing. This paper presents an overlapping generations model of housing, endogenous labour, savings and growth to analyse the effect of an increase in the household formation rate and speculative demand under rational expectations on house prices in a general equilibrium. We find that real house prices rise over time if the rate of household formation outstrips the rate of housing supply, but do not follow a speculative bubble path in the long run. The results explain why the upward trend in real house prices reflects market fundamentals and has continued despite population ageing as the number of working and retired households grows relative to the number of older people seeking to sell.
Apolipoprotein A1 distribution pattern in the human Achilles tendon
Authors: Gaida J. E. , Alfredson H. , Scott A. , Mousavizadeh R. , Forsgren S.
Published: January 2018

Metabolic factors such as cholesterol appear to play an important role in the development of Achilles tendinopathy. There is, however, no morphologic proof explaining the link between high cholesterol and tendinopathy. As apolipoprotein A1 (Apo‐A1) is essential for reverse cholesterol transport, it may be related to cholesterol overload in tendon. Nothing is known about Apo‐A1 expression in tendon tissue. We examined the distribution of Apo‐A1 protein in biopsies from normal and tendinopathy‐affected human Achilles tendons, and APOA1 mRNA production from cultured human hamstring tenocytes. Specific immunoreactions for Apo‐A1 were detected. The tenocytes showed specific Apo‐A1 immunoreactions. These reactions were usually distinct in the tendinopathy specimens. While the tendinopathy specimens often showed granular/small deposit reactions, the slender tenocytes of control specimens did not show this pattern. The magnitude of Apo‐A1 immunoreactivity was especially marked in the tendinopathy specimens, as there is a high number of tenocytes. Reactions were also seen in the walls of blood vessels located within the tendon tissue proper of both the normal and tendinopathy tendons and within the peritendinous/fatty tissue of the tendinopathy tendons. The reactions were predominantly in the form of deposit reactions within the smooth muscle layer of the vessel walls. Cultured hamstring tenocytes produced APOA1 mRNA. We demonstrated the presence of Apo‐A1 in human tendon tissue. This suggests there may be a link between Achilles tendinopathy and cholesterol metabolism. We hypothesize that Apo‐A1 may be important for tenocyte and blood vessel function within tendons.
Components of Place Value Understanding: Targeting Mathematical Difficulties When Providing Interventions
Authors: MacDonald Beth L. , Westenskow Arla , Moyer‐Packenham Patricia S. , Child Barbara
Published: January 2018

Place value understanding requires the same activity that students use when developing fractional and algebraic reasoning, making this understanding foundational to mathematics learning. However, many students engage successfully in mathematics classrooms without having a conceptual understanding of place value, preventing them from accessing mathematics that is more sophisticated later. The purpose of this exploratory study is to investigate how upper elementary students' unit coordination related to difficulties they experience when engaging in place value tasks. Understanding place value requires that students coordinate units recursively to construct multi‐digit numbers from their single‐digit number understandings through forms of unit development and strategic counting. Findings suggest that students identified as low‐achieving were capable of only one or two levels of unit coordination. Furthermore, these students relied on inaccurate procedures to solve problems with millennial numbers. These findings indicate that upper elementary students identified as low‐achieving are not to yet able to (de)compose numbers effectively, regroup tens and hundreds when operating on numbers, and transition between millennial numbers. Implications of this study suggest that curricula designers and statewide standards should adopt nuances in unit coordination when developing tasks that promote or assess students' place value understanding.
Facilitating an Elementary Engineering Design Process Module
Authors: Hill‐Cunningham P. Renee , Mott Michael S. , Hunt Anna‐Blair
Published: January 2018

STEM education in elementary school is guided by the understanding that engineering represents the application of science and math concepts to make life better for people. The Engineering Design Process (EDP) guides the application of creative solutions to problems. Helping teachers understand how to apply the EDP to create lessons develops a classroom where students are engaged in solving real world problems by applying the concepts they learn about science and mathematics. This article outlines a framework for developing such lessons and units, and discusses the underlying theory of systems thinking. A model lesson that uses this framework is discussed. Misconceptions regarding the EDP that children have displayed through this lesson and other design challenge lessons are highlighted. Through understanding these misconceptions, teachers can do a better job of helping students understand the system of ideas that helps engineers attack problems in the real world. Getting children ready for the 21st century requires a different outlook. Children need to tackle problems with a plan and not shrivel when at first, they fail. Seeing themselves as engineers will help more underrepresented students see engineering and other STEM fields as viable career options, which is our ultimate goal.
The major‐effect quantitative trait locus CsARN6.1 encodes an AAA ATPase domain‐containing protein that is associated with waterlogging stress tolerance by promoting adventitious root formation
Authors: Xu Xuewen , Ji Jing , Xu Qiang , Qi Xiaohua , Weng Yiqun , Chen Xuehao
Published: January 2018

In plants, the formation of hypocotyl‐derived adventitious roots (ARs) is an important morphological acclimation to waterlogging stress; however, its genetic basis remains fragmentary. Here, through combined use of bulked segregant analysis‐based whole‐genome sequencing, SNP haplotyping and fine genetic mapping, we identified a candidate gene for a major‐effect QTL, ARN6.1, that was responsible for waterlogging tolerance due to increased AR formation in the cucumber line Zaoer‐N. Through multiple lines of evidence, we show that CsARN6.1 is the most possible candidate for ARN6.1 which encodes an AAA ATPase. The increased formation of ARs under waterlogging in Zaoer‐N could be attributed to a non‐synonymous SNP in the coiled‐coil domain region of this gene. CsARN6.1 increases the number of ARs via its ATPase activity. Ectopic expression of CsARN6.1 in Arabidopsis resulted in better rooting ability and lateral root development in transgenic plants. Transgenic cucumber expressing the CsARN6.1Asp allele from Zaoer‐N exhibited a significant increase in number of ARs compared with the wild type expressing the allele from Pepino under waterlogging conditions. Taken together, these data support that the AAA ATPase gene CsARN6.1 has an important role in increasing cucumber AR formation and waterlogging tolerance.