bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of a streptococci containing probiotic in periodontal therapy: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Laleman Isabelle , Yilmaz Eftal , Ozcelik Onur , Haytac Cenk , Pauwels Martine , Herrero Esteban R. , Slomka Vera , Quirynen Marc , Alkaya Bahar , Teughels Wim
Published: October 2015

Aim

To evaluate the adjunctive effects of a Streptococcus oralis KJ3, Streptococcus uberis KJ2 and Streptococcus rattus JH145 containing probiotic tablet after scaling and root planing (SRP).

Materials and Methods

Forty‐eight periodontitis patients were included in this double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial. After root planing, patients used either a placebo or a probiotic tablet twice a day for 12 weeks. The pocket probing depth (primary outcome measure), bleeding on probing and relative attachment levels were measured at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks. At baseline, 4, 8, 12 and 24 weeks, microbiological sampling was performed and plaque and gingival indices were recorded.

Results

The primary and secondary outcome measures were significantly (p < 0.05) improved at the 12‐ and the 24‐week evaluation in both groups. However, no significant inter‐group differences could be detected at any time point, except from the % of sites with plaque that were significantly lower in the probiotic group than in the control group at the 24‐week evaluation. In addition, at the 12‐week time point, the salivary Prevotella intermedia counts were significantly lower in the probiotic group.

Conclusions

No differences were detected when comparing the adjunctive use of a placebo or the investigated streptococci containing probiotic tablet after SRP. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02403960.
Expression of amelogenin and effects of cyclosporin A in developing hair follicles in rats
Authors: Yoo Hong‐Il , Lee Gye‐Hyeok , Lee Su‐Young , Kang Jee‐Hae , Moon Jung‐Sun , Kim Min‐Seok , Kim Sun‐Hun
Published: October 2015

Amelogenin, an enamel matrix protein has been considered to be exclusively expressed by ameloblasts during odontogenesis. However, burgeoning evidence indicates that amelogenin is also expressed in non‐mineralizing tissues. Under the hypothesis that amelogenin may be a functional molecule in developing hair follicles which share developmental features with odontogenesis, this study for the first time elucidated the presence and functional changes of amelogenin and its receptors during rat hair follicle development. Amelogenin was specifically localized in the outer epithelial root sheath of hair follicles. Its expression appeared in the deeper portion of hair follicles, i.e. the bulbar and suprabulbar regions rather than the superficial region. Lamp‐1, an amelogenin receptor, was localized in either follicular cells or outer epithelial sheath cells, reflecting functional changes during development. The expression of amelogenin splicing variants increased in a time‐dependent manner during postnatal development of hair follicles. Amelogenin expression was increased by treatment with cyclosporin A, which is an inducer of anagen in the hair follicle, whereas the level of Lamp‐1 and ‐2 was decreased by cyclosporin A treatment. These results suggest that amelogenin may be a functional molecule involved in the development of the hair follicle rather than an inert hair shaft matrix protein.
Melatonin attenuates (‐)‐epigallocatehin‐3‐gallate‐triggered hepatotoxicity without compromising its downregulation of hepatic gluconeogenic and lipogenic genes in mice
Authors: Wang Dongxu , Wei Yaqing , Wang Taotao , Wan Xiaochun , Yang Chung S. , Reiter Russel J. , Zhang Jinsong
Published: October 2015

(‐)‐Epigallocatehin‐3‐gallate (EGCG), a major constituent of green tea, can ameliorate metabolic syndrome at least in part through reducing gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis. Green tea extracts, of which EGCG is a key constituent, have been used for weight loss in humans. A potential adverse effect of high‐dose EGCG or green tea extracts is hepatotoxicity. Melatonin, an endogenous antioxidant with a high safety profile, is effective in preventing various types of tissue damage. The current study investigated the influence of melatonin on EGCG‐triggered hepatotoxicity and EGCG‐downregulated hepatic genes responsible for gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis in mice. We found that (i) melatonin extended survival time of mice intoxicated with lethal doses of EGCG; (ii) melatonin ameliorated acute liver damage and associated hepatic Nrf2 suppression caused by a nonlethal toxic dose of EGCG; (iii) melatonin reduced subacute liver injury and hepatic Nrf2 activation caused by lower toxic doses of EGCG; and (iv) melatonin did not compromise the action of pharmacological doses of EGCG in downregulating a battery of hepatic genes responsible for gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis, including G6Pc, PEPCK, FOXO1α, SCD1, Fasn, leptin, ACCα, ACCβ, GAPT, and Srebp‐1. Taken together, these results suggest that the combination of EGCG and melatonin is an effective approach for preventing potential adverse effects of EGCG as a dietary supplement for metabolic syndrome alleviation and body weight reduction.
Cohort Study of the Success of Controlled Weight Loss Programs for Obese Dogs
Authors: German A.J. , Titcomb J.M. , Holden S.L. , Queau Y. , Morris P.J. , Biourge V.
Published: October 2015

Background

Most weight loss studies in obese dogs assess rate and percentage of weight loss in the first 2–3 months, rather than the likelihood of successfully reaching target weight.

Objective

To determine outcome of controlled weight loss programs for obese dogs, and to determine the factors associated with successful completion.

Animals

143 obese dogs undergoing a controlled weight loss program.

Methods

This was a cohort study of obese dogs attending a referral weight management clinic. Dogs were studied during their period of weight loss, and cases classified according to outcome as “completed” (reached target weight), “euthanized” (was euthanized before reaching target weight), or “stopped prematurely” (program stopped early for other reasons). Factors associated with successful completion were assessed using simple and multiple logistic regression.

Results

87/143 dogs (61%) completed their weight loss program, 11 [8%] died or were euthanized, and the remaining 45 [32%] stopped prematurely. Reasons for dogs stopping prematurely included inability to contact owner, refusal to comply with weight management advice, or development of another illness. Successful weight loss was positively associated with a faster rate (P < .001), a longer duration (P < .001), and feeding a dried weight management diet (P = .010), but negatively associated with starting body fat (P < .001), and use of dirlotapide (P = .0046).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Just over half of all obese dogs on a controlled weight loss program reach their target weight. Future studies should better clarify reasons for success in individual cases, and also the role of factors such as activity and behavioral modification.
Connectivity and management enables fast recovery of plant diversity in new linear grassland elements
Authors: Jakobsson Simon , Fukamachi Katsue , Cousins Sara A. O.
Published: October 2015

Questions

How does small linear grassland elements (paddy levees and road verges) contribute to plant diversity patterns in sites with modern or traditional management? Which factors determine small‐scale plant species richness of small linear grassland elements in a Japanese agricultural landscape?

Location

Shiga Prefecture, Japan.

Methods

Aerial photos from 1963, 1985, 1995 and 2008 were used to investigate landscape changes and to measure landscape structures within a typical agricultural landscape (~25 km2). Plant diversity was investigated in ten paddy levees and ten road verges in each of four traditional (barely any land cover alterations after 1963) and five modern (almost completely changed after 1985) sites. α‐diversity (mean number of species per plot) and γ‐diversity (total number of species) for all species, specialist and invasive species, respectively, were analysed in relation to site history types and landscape structures. Plot species richness was analysed in relation to site history type, patch age and width, proximity to forest and litter removal.

Results

In total, 204 plant species were found, 55 species unique to traditional sites and 13 unique to modern sites. α‐ and γ‐diversity of paddy levees and road verges was significantly higher in traditional sites. Number of specialist species on paddy levees and number of invasive species in road verges was also higher in traditional sites. Age was the strongest predictor of plot species richness on levees; older levees supported higher species richness than younger ones. Litter removal was the strongest predictor (positive effect) of plot species richness in road verges.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the colonization credit of new levees in modern sites is decreasing quite rapidly as species quickly establish, approaching almost the same richness values as in traditional sites. However, long continuity of traditional management is still one of the most important contributors to plant diversity and crucial for many species. But small grassland elements can still be of great significance for preserving and enhancing plant diversity in otherwise depleted landscapes, as long as they are managed and connected throughout the landscape.
Estimating glomerular filtration rate by serum creatinine or/and cystatin C equations: An analysis of multi‐centre Chinese subjects
Authors: Ye Xiaoshuang , Liu Xun , Song Dan , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Zhu Bei , Wei Lu , Pei Xiaohua , Wu Jianqing , Lou Tanqi , Zhao Weihong
Published: October 2015

Aim

Various equations based on serum creatinine or/and cystatin C, required further validation in a Chinese population. We compared the performance of six Chinese equations (Mascr, Peiscr, Macys, Fengcys, Mascr‐cys and Fengscr‐cys) with the CKD‐EPI equations in multi‐centre Chinese subjects and evaluated their applicability in clinical practice.

Methods

A total of 1522 adult patients from four different hospitals of China were enrolled in the study. 99mTc‐DTPA renal dynamic imaging was used as the reference GFR (rGFR), and serum creatinine and cystatin C were measured by standardized assays. An optimal score system was implemented in the study.

Results

The average rGFR of recruited subjects was 67.30±28.89 mL/min per 1.73m2. All estimated GFR (eGFR) correlated well with rGFR. In accordance with Bland–Altman analysis, the Fengscr‐cys equations achieved optimal overall performance (score 14 vs 0–6), with least bias (median difference, −0.57 mL/min per 1.73m2; median absolute difference, 8.83 mL/min per 1.73m2), best precision (17.99 mL/min per 1.73m2), highest accuracy (percentage of eGFR within 15%, 30% and 50% of the rGFR (P15, P30 and P50; 49.7%, 78.7% and 91.8%, respectively); root‐mean‐square‐error (RMSE, 16.28)). The Fengcys equation, a typical cystatin C based equation, was another well‐behaved formula with an impressive performance. The Ma equations performed much poorer than the CKD‐EPI equations. Consistent results can be observed in the GFR‐ /age‐ and sex‐specific subgroups, while none equation yielded ideal accuracy in GFR<60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 subgroup.

Conclusion

The Fengscr‐cys equation appeared to achieve the best performance for GFR estimation in overall Chinese adult patients. However, further research is warranted to improve the accuracy of available equations in GFR less than 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 individuals.
A New Argument from Interpersonal Variation to Subjectivism about Color: A Response to Gómez‐Torrente
Authors: Hansen Nat
Published: October 2015

I describe a new, comparative, version of the argument from interpersonal variation to subjectivism about color. The comparative version undermines a recent objectivist response to standard versions of that argument (Gómez‐Torrente 2016).
Behavioral and brain asymmetries in primates: a preliminary evaluation of two evolutionary hypotheses
Authors: Hopkins William D. , Misiura Maria , Pope Sarah M. , Latash Elitaveta M.
Published: October 2015

Contrary to many historical views, recent evidence suggests that species‐level behavioral and brain asymmetries are evident in nonhuman species. Here, we briefly present evidence of behavioral, perceptual, cognitive, functional, and neuroanatomical asymmetries in nonhuman primates. In addition, we describe two historical accounts of the evolutionary origins of hemispheric specialization and present data from nonhuman primates that address these specific theories. Specifically, we first discuss the evidence that genes play specific roles in determining left–right differences in anatomical and functional asymmetries in primates. We next consider and present data on the hypothesis that hemispheric specialization evolved as a by‐product of increasing brain size relative to the surface area of the corpus callosum in different primate species. Last, we discuss some of the challenges in the study of hemispheric specialization in primates and offer some suggestions on how to advance the field.
Blue aleurone trait diagnoses developmental origin of three pistils in a floret in common wheat
Authors: Watanabe Nobuyoshi , Mochida Mika , Martinek Petr , Peng Zhengsong
Published: October 2015

The common ‘three‐pistil’ (TP) wheat mutation line expresses TPs in a floret normally containing TPs forming three grains set close back‐to‐back. The developmental origin of the TP trait in common wheat had been diagnosed non‐destructively using the blue aleurone trait. The aleurone colour of F2 seeds grown in F1 plants of cross TP/UC66049 was evaluated. Due to xenia, the hue of blue grain colour depended on dose of the Ba1 gene for blue aleurone in the triploid endosperm. The TP trait produced four types of segregation in three‐seed clusters: (i) white grain only, (ii) two white grains and one blue, (iii) one white grain and two blue, and (iv) three blue grains only. The observed frequency of blue–white seed within clusters followed the binominal distribution 3Cr (0.75)r·(0.25)3–r, where r is the number of colour variants in three‐seed clusters (r = 0–3). Intrafloret segregation of seed colour and F2 segregation derived from aleurone colour of F3 seeds indicated an independent origin of the TP trait.
Identification of stable restorers and genetics of fertility restoration in late‐maturing pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh]
Authors: Saroj Sandeep K. , Singh Mahendra N. , Vishwakarma Manish K. , Singh Tejveer , Mishra Vinod K.
Published: October 2015

A total of sixty‐six germplasm lines were crossed with five CMS lines, where two belong to A4 cytoplasm, while other three belong to A2 cytoplasm. On the basis of pollen fertility test as well as good pod setting, of 330 hybrids, 34 restorer lines were observed in ICPA 2043 and 19 in ICPA 2092. Thirteen germplasm lines restored fertility in both the A4 CMS lines, viz. ICPA 2043 and ICPA 2092; however, none of the lines restored fertility in A2 CMS lines. For confirmation of result, restoration competence of identified lines tested subsequently 2 years at two different temperatures. The segregation patterns for fertility restoration studied in F2 and BC1F1 generations of selected ten crosses. Six crosses indicated the involvement of two major genes with recessive epistasis, three crosses confirmed dominant epistasis, and one cross indicated the involvement of duplicate recessive epistasis. The obtained results from this study will hasten the future three‐line breeding programme and lead the hybrid technology to the farmers' field with the better exploitation of CMS lines.
Pediatric deceased donor renal transplantation: An approach to decision making II. Acceptability of a deceased donor kidney for a child, a snap decision at 3 AM
Authors: Chaudhuri Abanti , Gallo Amy , Grimm Paul
Published: October 2015

Allocation of deceased donor kidneys is based on several criteria; however, the final decision to accept or reject the offered kidney is made by the potential recipient's transplant team (surgeon/nephrologist). Several considerations including assessment of the donor quality, the HLA match between the donor and the recipient, several recipient factors, the geographical location of the recipient, and the organ all affect the decision of whether or not to finally accept the organ for a particular recipient. This decision needs to be made quickly, often on the spot. Maximizing the benefit from this scarce resource raises difficult ethical issues. The philosophies of equity and utility are often competing. This article will discuss the several considerations for the pediatric nephrologist while accepting a deceased donor kidney for a particular pediatric patient.
Quality Provision with Heterogeneous Consumer Reservation Utilities
Authors: Qi Lian , Chu Leon Yang , Chen Rachel R.
Published: October 2015

This study examines a firm's quality and price decisions when consumers differ not only in their willingness‐to‐pay for quality but also in their reservation utility for the basic product. We find that while the firm offers lower‐quality products when consumers' valuations for quality deteriorate, the optimal quality may increase with a negative shift in consumers' reservation utilities. We also investigate the optimal price and quality of the products within a vertically differentiated product line when the number of products is exogenously given. The existing literature shows that when consumers differ only in their willingness‐to‐pay for quality, the firm sets the efficient quality for consumers with the highest valuation for quality, whereas the concern for cannibalization pushes down the quality of inferior products. We find that when consumers are heterogeneous in both their reservation utility and valuation for quality, the concern for cannibalization may distort the quality upwards, even for consumers with the highest willingness‐to‐pay for quality. In addition, a low‐quality product may enjoy a higher profit margin than a high‐quality product within the product line.
Enhancing responsiveness and consistency: Comparing the collective use of discretion and discretionary room at inspectorates inEngland and theNetherlands
Authors: Rutz Suzanne , Mathew Dinah , Robben Paul , de Bont Antoinette
Published: October 2015

Discretion used to be considered a feature of individuals, but growing literature shows that it has collective features as well. To develop an understanding of the individual and cooperative work of inspectors in using discretion and the discretionary room granted to them, we compared two inspectorates: theCareQualityCommission (CQC) inEngland and theJointInspectorate forYouth (JIY) in theNetherlands. Our analysis reveals that inspectors engage with colleagues, managers, and stakeholders to include other perspectives, gain mandate, and broaden their repertoire. At theCQC, inspectors use their discretion collectively; on their own initiative, they involve others in balancing and interpreting rules to reach judgments. At theJIY, teamwork is central and regulatory teams are granted collective discretionary room. We argue that collective work permits both responsiveness and consistency. In studying the judgments of inspectors and other street‐level bureaucrats, it is vital to look at collective work and how it combines consistency and responsiveness.
SPATIAL EXTENT OF LAND USE EXTERNALITIES IN THE JAKARTA FRINGE: SPATIAL ECONOMETRIC ANALYSIS
Authors: Fitriani Rahma , Sumarminingsih Eni
Published: October 2015

Spatial externalities play an important role in determining land value, leading to the application of spatial econometric analysis. Recent studies indicate that the interaction of two competing land use externalities has created sprawl in the Jakartan metropolitan fringe, putting pressure on conservation and productive agricultural sites in the southern fringe. This study analyzes the extent of those externalities and their role in recent development activities in the area, based on spatial econometric models. Four models are considered, and two variables (density and area proportion of agricultural activity) at district level are used to capture the competing externalities (social and green externalities) of land use. The proportion of developed area per district serves as a proxy for development land value. The analysis indicates that the spatial Durbin error model is the best model, and confirms the significant role of spatial externalities on development value, especially for social externalities, although it can only extend locally.
Association between the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation and aspects of health status: a Danish cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hoegh Vibeke , Lundbye‐Christensen Soeren , Delmar Charlotte , Frederiksen Kirsten , Riahi Sam , Overvad Kim
Published: October 2015

Background

Caring for patients living with atrial fibrillation (AF) is expected to be an increasing challenge for the healthcare sector in the future. Inconclusive results on self‐reported health‐related quality of life and health status in patients living with AF have previously been reported, ranging from being similar to those observed in patients who have sustained and survived a myocardial infarction to not being different from those of healthy subjects. In these studies, gender differences were not taken into account.

Aim and objective

To investigate the association between the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation and self‐reported health status.

Design

An observational, cross‐sectional study was conducted using data from the Danish Diet, Cancer and Health cohort. Information on health status was obtained using the Danish version of the Short Form 36 version 2 questionnaire. The analyses were stratified on gender. In adjusted analysis, we considered potential confounding from comorbidity expressed by the Charlson Comorbidity Index and effect modification by age.

Ethical approval

The local ethical committees of Copenhagen and Frederiksberg municipalities (Approval no.: (KF) 01‐345/93) approved the study.

Results

We included 42 598 participants of whom 873 had a diagnosis of AF and/or atrial flutter. We found a lower adjusted physical component score among AF patients. No systematic differences in the mental component score (MCS) were observed.

Conclusion

Participants diagnosed with AF report a clinically and statistically significantly lower physical health component score. No systematic differences in the MCS were found when comparing with the remaining participants in the cohort. As healthcare professionals caring for patients living with AF are not always expecting patients living with AF to experience a burden from their disease, the individual patients' experience of their situation, feelings, preferences, symptoms and needs leading to physical limitations should always be articulated.
Sequence stratigraphy of the Mancos Shale, lower Tres Hermanos Formation, and coeval middle Cenomanian to middle Turonian strata, southern New Mexico, USA
Authors: Mack Greg H. , Hook Stephen , Giles Katherine A. , Cobban William A.
Published: October 2015

Sequence stratigraphic analysis of four widely spaced outcrops of middle Cenomanian to middle Turonian strata deposited in the Western Interior foreland basin in southern New Mexico, USA, defines ten sequence boundaries in a marine shale‐rich interval ca 200 m thick. The majority of sequence boundaries are based on basinward shifts in lithofacies characterized by either a non‐Waltherian contact between distal‐bar or lower shoreface sandstone and underlying lower offshore shale, or an erosional contact between distal‐bar or lower shoreface sandstone and underlying upper offshore shale. The sequence boundaries commonly correlate basinward to packages of storm‐deposited sandstone and to beds of sandy grainstone composed of winnowed inoceramid shell fragments. In several cases, however, the sequence boundaries pass basinward into presumably conformable successions of lower offshore shale. Maximum flooding surfaces within the sequences are represented by one or more beds of locally phosphatized globiginerid wackestone and packstone or exist within a conformable succession of lower offshore shale. Following initial south/south‐westward transgression into the study area, the regional trend of palaeoeshorelines was north‐west to south‐east, although isopach data indicate that lobes of sandstone periodically spread south‐eastward across the study area. The ten sequences in the study area are arranged into a third‐order composite megasequence that is characterized by overall upward‐deepening followed by upward‐shallowing of sequences. The composite megasequence is similar but not identical to the previously established T‐1 transgression and R‐1 regression in New Mexico. Based on radioisotopic dates of bentonites, the average frequency of the sequences within the study area was ca 327 kyr, which is consistent with fourth‐order cycles of ca 400 kyr interpreted in coeval marine strata elsewhere in the world.
Voluntary Associations' Impact on the Composition of Active Members' Social Networks: Not an Either/Or Matter
Authors: Farkas Gergei M. , Lindberg Elisabet
Published: October 2015

Membership in voluntary associations is often assumed to have a homogenizing or diversifying impact on the social composition of members' personal relations. In this study, we examine these assertions empirically in a sample (n = 818) comprising active members of voluntary associations in a typical midsized Swedish community. We investigate whether people whom active members of voluntary associations have met through their voluntary activities are more or less likely to share their social characteristics than people whom they have met elsewhere. Our results show that acquaintances whom our respondents have acquired within voluntary associations are less likely to share several of their significant social characteristics than other members of their personal networks, but more likely to reside in their vicinity than others. Consequently, our results give fairly robust support to the “integrating hypothesis” according to which voluntary associations contribute to the social diversification of their members' personal networks. We do, however, emphasize the principally important aspects of our results, according to which relations acquired through involvement in voluntary associations may have simultaneously homogenizing and diversifying effects on individuals' personal networks. Furthermore, the effect may also depend on the specific dimension(s) of the networks under consideration.
Low elevation of the northern Lhasa terrane in the Eocene: Implications for relief development in south Tibet
Authors: Xu Qiang , Ding Lin , Hetzel Ralf , Yue Yahui , Rades Eike F.
Published: October 2015

The uplift history of Tibet is crucial for understanding the geodynamic and palaeoclimatologic evolution of Asia; however, the pattern of plateau uplift through space and time remains unresolved. We use stable isotope data from palaeosol carbonates to reconstruct the Eocene (~46 Ma) elevation of the Tangra Yum Co region (northern Lhasa terrane). The difference between the oxygen isotopic compositions of the studied palaeosols and Eocene surface water near the source of the Indian monsoon indicates a palaeoelevation of 2590 (+730/−910) m for Tangra Yum Co (present altitude: ~4600 m). A similar palaeoaltitude is obtained by comparing our data with modern soils and taking past environmental changes into account. Combining our results with published palaeoelevation estimates for Tibet suggests significant relief (~2 km) during the Eocene, when a low‐lying basin in the northern Lhasa terrane was bounded by the Qiangtang and Gangdese mountain belts to the north and south respectively.
Post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder of the adrenal gland after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: report of two cases and literature review
Authors: Kasahara H. , Mori T. , Kato J. , Koda Y. , Kohashi S. , Kikuchi T. , Sakurai M. , Yamane Y. , Mikami S. , Kameyama K. , Takahashi Y. , Okamoto S.
Published: October 2015

Post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is one of the life‐threatening complications after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and solid organ transplantation (SOT), and it is associated almost exclusively with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). We herein report 2 cases of EBV‐associated PTLD after allogeneic HSCT localized in the adrenal gland. Both patients developed adrenal tumor within 3 months after HSCT and were successfully treated with rituximab or tapering immunosuppressive agents. Both remained alive without recurrence. A literature review revealed 12 reported cases of PTLD involving the adrenal gland, but the adrenal gland was involved as one of the lesions of advanced‐stage PTLD after SOT. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to show cases of isolated EBV‐associated adrenal PTLD after HSCT. PTLD should be recognized as one of the causes of isolated adrenal tumor after HSCT.
Sodium stibogluconate and paromomycin for treating visceral leishmaniasis under routine conditions in eastern Sudan
Authors: Atia Atia M. , Mumina Ann , Tayler‐Smith Katherine , Boulle Philippa , Alcoba Gabriel , Elhag Mousab Siddig , Alnour Mubarak , Shah Safieh , Chappuis François , van Griensven Johan , Zachariah Rony
Published: October 2015

Objectives

Among patients with primary and relapse visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in eastern Sudan, we determined the proportion eligible for treatment with sodium stibogluconate and paromomycin (SSG/PM) and, of these, their demographic and clinical characteristics; initial treatment outcomes including adverse side effects requiring treatment discontinuation; treatment outcomes by 6 months; and risk factors associated with initial (slow responders) and late treatment failure (relapses and post‐kala‐azar dermal leishmaniasis, PKDL).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study in Tabarak Allah Hospital, Gedaref Province, eastern Sudan, from July 2011 to January 2014.

Results

Of 1252 individuals diagnosed with VL (1151 primary and 101 relapses), 65% were eligible for SSG/PM including 83% children, almost half of them malnourished and anaemic. About 4% of individuals discontinued treatment due to side effects; 0.7% died during treatment. Initial cure was achieved in 93% of 774 primary cases and 77% of 35 relapse cases (P < 0.001). Among the 809 patients eligible for SSG/PM, 218 (27%) were lost to follow‐up. Outcomes by six months among the 591 patients with available follow‐up data were: definitive cure (n = 506; 86%), relapse (n = 38; 6%), treatment discontinuation (n = 33; 6%), PKDL (n = 7; 1%) and death (n = 7; 1%). Among those completing a full course of SSG/PM, relapses and under‐fives were at significantly higher risk of early and late treatment failure, respectively.

Conclusion

Whether SSG/PM as a first‐line regimen is an undeniable progress compared to SSG monotherapy, it excluded a considerable proportion of VL patients due to drug safety concerns. We call for accelerated development of new drugs and treatment regimens to improve VL treatment in Sudan.
Comparing two survey methods of measuring health‐related indicators: Lot Quality Assurance Sampling and Demographic Health Surveys
Authors: Anoke Sarah C. , Mwai Paul , Jeffery Caroline , Valadez Joseph J. , Pagano Marcello
Published: October 2015

Objectives

Two common methods used to measure indicators for health programme monitoring and evaluation are the demographic and health surveys (DHS) and lot quality assurance sampling (LQAS); each one has different strengths. We report on both methods when utilised in comparable situations.

Methods

We compared 24 indicators in south‐west Uganda, where data for prevalence estimations were collected independently for the two methods in 2011 (LQAS: n = 8876; DHS: n = 1200). Data were stratified (e.g. gender and age) resulting in 37 comparisons. We used a two‐sample two‐sided Z‐test of proportions to compare both methods.

Results

The average difference between LQAS and DHS for 37 estimates was 0.062 (SD = 0.093; median = 0.039). The average difference among the 21 failures to reject equality of proportions was 0.010 (SD = 0.041; median = 0.009); among the 16 rejections, it was 0.130 (SD = 0.010, median = 0.118). Seven of the 16 rejections exhibited absolute differences of <0.10, which are clinically (or managerially) not significant; 5 had differences >0.10 and <0.20 (mean = 0.137, SD = 0.031) and four differences were >0.20 (mean = 0.261, SD = 0.083).

Conclusion

There is 75.7% agreement across the two surveys. Both methods yield regional results, but only LQAS provides information at less granular levels (e.g. the district level) where managerial action is taken. The cost advantage and localisation make LQAS feasible to conduct more frequently, and provides the possibility for real‐time health outcomes monitoring.
Implementation of isoniazid preventive therapy in an HIV clinic in Cambodia: high rates of discontinuation when combined with antiretroviral therapy
Authors: van Griensven Johan , Choun Kimcheng , Chim Bopha , Thai Sopheak , Lorent Natalie , Lynen Lutgarde
Published: October 2015

Objective

Data on feasibility and completion rates of isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) in HIV‐infected patient in Asia are limited. Within a hospital‐based HIV programme in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, we determined the proportion completing IPT and reasons for non‐completion.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study using HIV/IPT programme data, including all adults starting IPT (300 mg/day self‐administered for 24 weeks) from February 2011 to March 2013. All patients underwent symptom screening and further investigations as indicated. After ruling out tuberculosis (TB), IPT was started, with monthly follow‐up visits. As per national guideline, IPT was only prescribed for ART‐naïve patients. IPT completion was defined as taking IPT for at least 22 of the planned 24 weeks. Stavudine/lamivudine/nevirapine was the preferential first‐line ART regimen.

Results

Among 445 ART‐naïve patients starting IPT (median age: 35 years (IQR: 31–43), median CD4 count 354 cells/μl (IQR 215–545) and 288 (65%) were female), 214 (48%) started ART after a median of 4 weeks (IQR 2–6) on IPT (‘concurrent ART’). Overall, 348 (78%) completed IPT. Among individuals with concurrent ART, the completion rate was 73% (157/214). Those without concurrent ART had a higher completion rate (83%; 191/231; P 0.017). The main reason for non‐completion with concurrent ART was drug toxicity (mainly hepatotoxicity/rash), occurring in 22% (48/214). Without concurrent ART, the main reason for non‐completion was loss to follow‐up (16/231; 7%). Fourteen (3%) patients were diagnosed with TB while on IPT, of whom three had a positive TB culture at baseline. An additional 14 TB cases were diagnosed after IPT completion; four were bacteriologically confirmed.

Conclusion

Although overall completion rates were acceptable, IPT discontinuation due to drug toxicity was common in patients subsequently initiating ART. Future studies should evaluate whether this relates to IPT, ARVs or both, and whether the increased toxicity would justify delaying IPT initiation until stabilisation on ART.
The Cognitive Advantages of Counting Specifically: A Representational Analysis of Verbal Numeration Systems in Oceanic Languages
Authors: Bender Andrea , Schlimm Dirk , Beller Sieghard
Published: October 2015

The domain of numbers provides a paradigmatic case for investigating interactions of culture, language, and cognition: Numerical competencies are considered a core domain of knowledge, and yet the development of specifically human abilities presupposes cultural and linguistic input by way of counting sequences. These sequences constitute systems with distinct structural properties, the cross‐linguistic variability of which has implications for number representation and processing. Such representational effects are scrutinized for two types of verbal numeration systems—general and object‐specific ones—that were in parallel use in several Oceanic languages (English with its general system is included for comparison). The analysis indicates that the object‐specific systems outperform the general systems with respect to counting and mental arithmetic, largely due to their regular and more compact representation. What these findings reveal on cognitive diversity, how the conjectures involved speak to more general issues in cognitive science, and how the approach taken here might help to bridge the gap between anthropology and other cognitive sciences is discussed in the conclusion.
Seroprevalence of Babesia microti infection in Canadian blood donors
Authors: O'Brien Sheila F. , Delage Gilles , Scalia Vito , Lindsay Robbin , Bernier France , Dubuc Sophie , Germain Marc , Pilot Gerry , Yi Qi‐Long , Fearon Margaret A.
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND

Human babesiosis, caused by the intraerythrocytic protozoan parasite Babesia microti, is primarily transmitted by tick bites and is also transmitted by transfusion. Infections have been identified in US blood donors close to Canadian borders. We aimed to assess the risk of transfusion‐transmitted babesiosis in Canada by examining infections in ticks and seroprevalence in blood donors.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Passive surveillance (receipt of ticks submitted by the public) was used to identify regions for tick drag sampling (active surveillance, 2009‐2014). All ticks were tested for B. microti using an indirect immunofluorescent antibody assay (Imugen, Inc.). Between July and December 2013, blood donations from selected sites (southern Manitoba, Ontario, Québec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia) near endemic US regions were tested for antibody to B. microti. Donors completed a questionnaire about risk travel and possible tick exposure.

RESULTS

Of approximately 12,000 ticks submitted, 14 were B. microti positive (10 in Manitoba, one in Ontario, one in Québec, two in New Brunswick). From active tick surveillance, six of 361 ticks in Manitoba were positive (1.7%), three of 641 (0.5%) in Québec, and none elsewhere. There were 26,260 donors at the selected sites of whom 13,993 (53%) were tested. None were positive for antibody to B. microti. In 2013, 47% of donors visited forested areas in Canada, and 41% traveled to the United States.

CONCLUSION

The data do not suggest that laboratory‐based testing is warranted at this time. However, there are indicators that B. microti may be advancing into Canada and ongoing monitoring of tick populations and donor seroprevalence is indicated.
The use of the diaphragmatico‐hepatic (DH) views of the abdominal and thoracic focused assessment with sonography for triage (AFAST/TFAST) examinations for the detection of pericardial effusion in 24 dogs (2011–2012)
Authors: Lisciandro Gregory R.
Published: October 2015

Objective

To evaluate the clinical usefulness of the diaphragmatico‐hepatic (DH) view of the abdominal and thoracic focused assessment with sonography for triage (AFAST/TFAST) in detecting pericardial effusion (PE) in dogs.

Design

Retrospective case series from 2011 to 2012.

Setting

Private practice emergency and critical care hospital.

Animals

Twenty‐four dogs with PE diagnosed by FAST.

Interventions

None.

Measurement and Main Results

Fifty‐two medical records from October 1, 2011 through September 30, 2012 had the terms “PE” within the medical record. Twenty‐four dogs were diagnosed with PE by FAST with entries for the DH view. Of the 24 dogs, 7 had abdominal FAST, 6 had thoracic FAST (TFAST), and 11 had both exams performed. PE was noted on the DH view in 20 of 24 (83%) cases. Subjective PE volume assessment ranged from trivial (<5 mm) to severe. Of the 4 cases in which PE was absent via the DH view, PE was seen during the same exam at the TFAST pericardial views (n = 2) or detected on serial exam at the DH view (n = 2). The PE volume that was missed via the DH view was characterized as trivial (<5 mm; n = 1), mild (n = 1), and moderate (n = 2).

Conclusions

The DH view of FAST was found to be clinically helpful for the detection of PE. Veterinarians should make it routine practice and part of FAST training to look into the thorax via the DH view during both abdominal FAST and TFAST exams.
Dormancy, germination and emergence ofUrochloa panicoidesregulated by temperature
Authors: Ustarroz D , Kruk B C , Satorre E H , Ghersa C M
Published: October 2015

Urochloa panicoidesis an annual weed of summer crops. In Argentina, in subhumid areas with monsoon rainfall, it germinates and establishes in a single flush. To (i) identify the environmental factors that modify its seed dormancy level and germination and (ii) quantify the parameters describing the thermal behaviour of the germination and emergence dynamics of this weed under non‐limiting water conditions, we established a set of germination experiments performed (i) under controlled conditions using seeds after ripened for 3 or 6 months in different thermal and hydric conditions and (ii) under field conditions, where the soil temperature was modified by applying different shading levels. Seed dormancy level remained high with 3 months after ripening in all treatments. After 6 months, seeds stored at 4°C in dry conditions did not germinate at any temperature, while seeds stored at 25°C in dry conditions andin situgerminatedc. 20% and 60% respectively. Germination percentage was higher in seeds harvested before their natural dispersal. The base, optimum and maximum temperatures for seed germination were 6, 35 and 45°C respectively. Shading reduced the number of emerged seedlings, possibly by reducing the soil thermal amplitude. The results explained the dormancy‐breaking mechanism ofU. panicoidesthat allows a high germination rate in the field when rainfall occurs.
A new method to evaluate the effects of shear on the skin
Authors: de Wert Luuk A. , Bader Dan L. , Oomens Cees W. J. , Schoonhoven Lisette , Poeze Martijn , Bouvy Nicole D.
Published: October 2015

Currently, pressure ulcer preventive strategies focus mainly on pressure redistribution. Little attention is paid to reduce the harmful effects of shear‐force, because little is known about pathophysiological aspects of shear‐force. Even today, no method to measure the effects of shear‐force on the skin is available. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the response to shear‐forces in terms of analyzing a noninvasive biomarker and reactive hyperemic parameter measured at the skin of healthy participants. A physical model was developed to produce a combination of pressure and shear or pressure alone on the skin. Ten healthy male participants were included and pressure (3.9 kPa) and a combined loading of pressure and shear (2.4 kPa + 14.5 N) was applied at the volar aspect of the forearms for 15 and 30 minutes. A Sebutape sample was used to collect IL‐1α and total protein (TP) noninvasively. The reactive hyperemic parameter was derived from a laser Doppler flowmeter. The increase in IL‐1α/TP‐ratio after a combined loading of pressure and shear for 30 minutes of 6.2 ± 2.5 was significantly higher compared with all other test conditions (p < 0.05). The increase in cutaneous blood cell flux was already significantly higher when a combined loading of pressure and shear was applied for 15 minutes compared with pressure alone. These results shows that the IL‐1α/TP‐ratio and cutaneous blood cell flux can be used as robust measures of the effect of shear‐force on skin in humans. Therefore, this model can be used to evaluate materials aimed at the reduction of shear.
A quasi-linear time algorithm for computing modular polynomials in dimension 2
Authors: Milio Enea
Published: October 2015

We propose to generalize the work of Régis Dupont for computing modular polynomials in dimension $2$ to new invariants. We describe an algorithm to compute modular polynomials for invariants derived from theta constants and prove heuristically that this algorithm is quasi-linear in its output size. Some properties of the modular polynomials defined from quotients of theta constants are analyzed. We report on experiments with our implementation.
Killer whale (Orcinus orca) whistles from the western South Atlantic Ocean include high frequency signals
Authors: Andriolo Artur , Reis Sarah S. , Amorim Thiago O. S. , Sucunza Federico , de Castro Franciele R. , Maia Ygor Geyer , Zerbini Alexandre N. , Bortolotto Guilherme A. , Dalla Rosa Luciano
Published: October 2015

Acoustic parameters of killer whale (Orcinus orca) whistles were described for the western South Atlantic Ocean and highlight the occurrence of high frequency whistles. Killer whale signals were recorded on December of 2012, when a pod of four individuals was observed harassing a group of sperm whales. The high frequency whistles were highly stereotyped and were modulated mostly at ultrasonic frequencies. Compared to other contour types, the high frequency whistles are characterized by higher bandwidths, shorter durations, fewer harmonics, and higher sweep rates. The results add to the knowledge of vocal behavior of this species.
A Multiple Regression Approach to Normalization of Spatiotemporal Gait Features
Authors: Wahid Ferdous , Begg Rezaul , Lythgo Noel , Hass Chris J. , Halgamuge Saman , Ackland David C.
Published: October 2015

Normalization of gait data is performed to reduce the effects of intersubject variations due to physical characteristics. This study reports a multiple regression normalization approach for spatiotemporal gait data that takes into account intersubject variations in self-selected walking speed and physical properties including age, height, body mass, and sex. Spatiotemporal gait data including stride length, cadence, stance time, double support time, and stride time were obtained from healthy subjects including 782 children, 71 adults, 29 elderly subjects, and 28 elderly Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. Data were normalized using standard dimensionless equations, a detrending method, and a multiple regression approach. After normalization using dimensionless equations and the detrending method, weak to moderate correlations between walking speed, physical properties, and spatiotemporal gait features were observed (0.01 < |r| < 0.88), whereas normalization using the multiple regression method reduced these correlations to weak values (|r| < 0.29). Data normalization using dimensionless equations and detrending resulted in significant differences in stride length and double support time of PD patients; however the multiple regression approach revealed significant differences in these features as well as in cadence, stance time, and stride time. The proposed multiple regression normalization may be useful in machine learning, gait classification, and clinical evaluation of pathological gait patterns.
Neurophysiology charges ahead
Authors: Dove Alan
Published: October 2015

At first glance, animal nervous systems seem to defy understanding. Even a "simple" animal such as a fly has over 100,000 neurons that can fire in billions of possible combinations, driving precise, nuanced responses to complex environmental stimuli. Nonetheless, evolution has given brains a few features that make them tantalizingly easy to study—at least in theory.
Have physicists seen the dying flash of dark matter?
Authors: Cartlidge Edwin
Published: October 2015

Dark particle decays could explain tantalizing x-ray signal seen in multiple galaxies, including our own Milky Way.
Holographic measurements of inhomogeneous cloud mixing at the centimeter scale
Authors: Beals Madeline A. , Fugal Jacob P. , Shaw Raymond A. , Lu Jiang , Spuler Scott M. , Stith Jeffrey L.
Published: October 2015

Cloud mixing and droplet evolution

When clouds mix with drier air because of atmospheric turbulence, some of the cloud droplets evaporate. Beals
et al.
developed an airborne holographic imaging system to look at changes in the spatial structure and sizes of these droplets (see the Perspective by Bodenschatz). Turbulent mixing of clouds with clear air caused dramatic fluctuations in the number density of water droplets but left their mean diameter essentially unchanged. This finding should help models better represent these hard-to-parameterize cloud processes.

Science
, this issue p.
87
; see also p.
40