bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computation of sintering stress and bulk viscosity from microtomographic images in viscous sintering of glass particles
Authors: Okuma Gaku , Kadowaki Daiki , Hondo Tsuyoshi , Sato Akihiro , Tanaka Satoshi , Wakai Fumihiro
Published: November 2016

Sintering stress and bulk viscosity were derived as functions of relative density from microtomographic images in viscous sintering of glass particles. Three methods were proposed to estimate the sintering stress from relative density, specific surface area, and average of curvature on pore surface, which were directly measured by X‐ray microtomography. The surface energy method gave valid value in the final stage of sintering, while the mixed method gave better estimation in the intermediate stage. For the initial stage of sintering, the sintering stress was calculated from the average contact radius and the average coordination number observed by X‐ray microtomography. The sintering stress at the final stage increased in free sintering, but it decreased in constrained sintering due to pore coarsening. The bulk viscosity was calculated from the shrinkage rate and the sintering stress.
The process of patient enablement in general practice nurse consultations: a grounded theory study
Authors: Desborough Jane , Banfield Michelle , Phillips Christine , Mills Jane
Published: November 2016

Aim

The aim of this study was to gain insight into the process of patient enablement in general practice nursing consultations.

Background

Enhanced roles for general practice nurses may benefit patients through a range of mechanisms, one of which may be increasing patient enablement. In studies with general practitioners enhanced patient enablement has been associated with increases in self‐efficacy and skill development.

Design

This study used a constructivist grounded theory design.

Methods

In‐depth interviews were conducted with 16 general practice nurses and 23 patients from 21 general practices between September 2013 ‐ March 2014. Data generation and analysis were conducted concurrently using constant comparative analysis and theoretical sampling focussing on the process and outcomes of patient enablement. Use of the storyline technique supported theoretical coding and integration of the data into a theoretical model.

Findings

A clearly defined social process that fostered and optimised patient enablement was constructed. The theory of ‘developing enabling healthcare partnerships between nurses and patients in general practice’ incorporates three stages: triggering enabling healthcare partnerships, tailoring care and the manifestation of patient enablement.

Patient enablement was evidenced through: 1. Patients’ understanding of their unique healthcare requirements informing their health seeking behaviours and choices; 2. Patients taking an increased lead in their partnership with a nurse and seeking choices in their care and 3. Patients getting health care that reflected their needs, preferences and goals.

Conclusions

This theoretical model is in line with a patient‐centred model of health care and is particularly suited to patients with chronic disease.
Experimental feeding regime influences urban bird disease dynamics
Authors: Galbraith Josie A. , Stanley Margaret C. , Jones Darryl N. , Beggs Jacqueline R.
Published: November 2016

Wild bird feeding often results in high densities of birds, potentially facilitating transmission of disease. Wild birds are major reservoirs of many zoonotic diseases, and although a number of avian disease outbreaks have been linked to bird feeders, urban bird‐feeding and its role in disease systems remains poorly studied. We examined the impacts of typical supplementary feeding practices on the health status of feeder‐visiting birds at experimental feeding stations in an urban area of New Zealand. Over an 18‐month period, we screened birds captured at feeding and non‐feeding properties for three pathogens and four groups of parasites to determine whether feeding altered disease dynamics. We also assessed body condition. All pathogens and parasites were detected in at least one garden bird species. Feeding stations tested positive for Salmonella enterica Typhimurium on ∼7% of occasions, confirming that structures used in feeding are a potential transmission pathway. Feeding influenced some parasite infection parameters; these effects varied among host species. In silvereyes Zosterops lateralis, helminth prevalence and abundance were lower at feeding properties compared to non‐feeding properties. In contrast, Eurasian blackbirds Turdus merula at feeding properties had a higher abundance of helminths. House sparrows Passer domesticus at feeding properties had a higher abundance of feather lice. Furthermore, our feeding regime significantly affected body condition in house sparrow and silvereye, though no associations between parasite parameters and body condition indices were found. Our results demonstrate that feeding practices can have varied effects on avian health, including no observable effects for some disease agents in some host species. Disease risks are present, however, thus understanding and reducing these risks should be a key goal for all stakeholders to protect birds that use feeders and other wildlife.
Assessment of implementability of an adapted clinical practice guideline for surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis at a tertiary care university hospital
Authors: Altokhais Tariq I. , Al‐Obaid Omar A. , Kattan Abdullah E. , Amer Yasser S. ,   CPG Collaborative Groups
Published: November 2016

Rationale, aims and objectives

Surgical site infections are the most common healthcare‐associated infections. Appropriate surgical antimicrobial prophylaxis (SAP), which is an integral part of surgical site infection SSI prevention, is one of the major preventable risks to surgical patient safety. Several clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for SAP have been published. The aim of this study was to adapt a CPG for SAP and to assess its implementability.

Methods

The methodology was based on two validated tools for CPGs, namely, the ADAPTE and the Guideline Implementability Appraisal (GLIA).

Results

The ADAPTE CPG adaptation process methodology was utilized to produce an adapted CPG for SAP based on the American Society of Health System Pharmacists 2013 CPG. The finalized CPG was then assessed to identify any possible intrinsic barriers for implementation.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the ADAPTE tool is a practical and successful tool for production of CPGs. The GLIA tool is useful for assessing and preparing the finalized adapted CPG for the transition from the production stage to the implementation stage. GLIA could be added to the ADAPTE process either as a final step or to check the draft of the CPG before finalization.
Method development for the analysis of total bacterial count in raw milk using near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Numthuam Sonthaya , Hongpathong Jutaporn , Charoensook Rangsun , Rungchang Saowaluk
Published: November 2016

The possibility use of near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy in the region of 9000–4000 cm−1 to determine total bacterial count (TBC) in raw milk and the influence of bacterial cultivation on TBC prediction accuracy were studied. Raw milk samples were diluted 10‐fold with tryptic soy broth and then cultivated at 32 °C for 2 hr. NIR measurements were performed after cultivation times of 30, 60, 90, and 120 min. Partial least squares regression was used to develop calibration models for TBC. The best calibration result was obtained from the 90 min‐cultivation samples, with the correlation coefficient (R) of .90 and root mean square error of prediction of .32 log10 CFU/ml. The analysis of the calibration structure indicated that important information for TBC prediction was from chemical compositional changes and bacterial metabolites. The NIR method combined with bacterial cultivation was satisfactory for the rapid analysis of TBC in raw milk.

Practical applications

The number of bacteria in raw milk is an important indicator for hygienic quality and milk grading system which consequently reflects a milk price. The proposed method allows satisfied performance for TBC determination in raw milk in 90 min as compared to the 48 hr required using the plate count method. The NIR method developed in this study seems to be an effective tool for a rapid evaluation of bacterial contamination in raw milk. An integration between determination of milk hygienic quality and chemical compositional quality using NIR spectroscopy will facilitate a rapid and multicomponents analysis and become a powerful tool for a practical use in the competitive dairy industry.
Willingness and Ability of Older Adults in the Emergency Department to Provide Clinical Information Using a Tablet Computer
Authors: Brahmandam Sruti , Holland Wesley C. , Mangipudi Sowmya A. , Braz Valerie A. , Medlin Richard P. , Hunold Katherine M. , Jones Christopher W. , Platts‐Mills Timothy F.
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To estimate the proportion of older adults in the emergency department (ED) who are willing and able to use a tablet computer to answer questions.

Design

Prospective, ED‐based cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Two U.S. academic EDs.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 and older.

Measurements

As part of screening for another study, potential study participants were asked whether they would be willing to use a tablet computer to answer eight questions instead of answering questions orally. A custom user interface optimized for older adults was used. Trained research assistants observed study participants as they used the tablets. Ability to use the tablet was assessed based on need for assistance and number of questions answered correctly.

Results

Of 365 individuals approached, 248 (68%) were willing to answer screening questions, 121 of these (49%) were willing to use a tablet computer; of these, 91 (75%) were able to answer at least six questions correctly, and 35 (29%) did not require assistance. Only 14 (12%) were able to answer all eight questions correctly without assistance. Individuals aged 65 to 74 and those reporting use of a touchscreen device at least weekly were more likely to be willing and able to use the tablet computer. Of individuals with no or mild cognitive impairment, the percentage willing to use the tablet was 45%, and the percentage answering all questions correctly was 32%.

Conclusion

Approximately half of this sample of older adults in the ED was willing to provide information using a tablet computer, but only a small minority of these were able to enter all information correctly without assistance. Tablet computers may provide an efficient means of collecting clinical information from some older adults in the ED, but at present, it will be ineffective for a significant portion of this population.
Effects of Human Maternal Placentophagy on Maternal Postpartum Iron Status: A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Gryder Laura K. , Young Sharon M. , Zava David , Norris Wendy , Cross Chad L. , Benyshek Daniel C.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

Advocates of human maternal placentophagy report that encapsulated placenta is an excellent source of dietary iron. Our study compared the effect of ingested encapsulated placenta on maternal postpartum iron status versus that of a beef placebo.

Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled pilot study (N = 23) was conducted among healthy human research participants experiencing a normal pregnancy. Maternal iron status was measured via hemoglobin, transferrin, and ferritin taken from blood samples drawn in the participants’ homes at 4 time points: the 36th week of pregnancy, within 96 hours of parturition, between days 5 and 7 postpartum, and during week 3 postpartum. Iron concentrations in the encapsulated placenta and encapsulated beef placebo were compared using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

Results

Seventy‐eight percent (18/23) of study participants’ hemoglobin concentrations were above the World Health Organization cutoff for gestational iron deficiency (≥ 11.0 g/dL) during the 36th week of pregnancy. Results revealed no statistically significant differences (hemoglobin, P = .603; ferritin, P = .852; transferrin, P = .936) in maternal iron status (including postpartum iron rebound in the first week postpartum) between women in the placenta supplement (n = 10) and placebo (n = 13) groups. Average iron concentrations were considerably higher in encapsulated placenta (0.664 mg/g) compared to the encapsulated beef placebo (0.093 mg/g) but provided only 24% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for iron among lactating women based on the study's maximum daily intake.

Discussion

The current study suggests that encapsulated placenta supplementation neither significantly improves nor impairs postpartum maternal iron status for women consuming the RDA of dietary iron during pregnancy and lactation, compared to a beef placebo. This may be an especially important finding for women who are iron deficient postpartum and whose only source of supplemental dietary iron is encapsulated placenta, as this may provide an inadequate source of supplemental iron in cases of deficiency.
Sociology of Law in Germany: Reflection and Practice
Authors: Bora Alfons
Published: November 2016

This article is the fourth in an occasional series dealing with the development, current status, and future of socio‐legal studies in selected countries. It follows articles by Kim Economides (Aotearoa/New Zealand), Harry Arthurs and Annie Bunting (Canada), and Renaud Colson and Stewart Field (France).
Genetic and morphological variation in an ecosystem engineer, Lithophyllum byssoides (Corallinales, Rhodophyta)
Authors: Pezzolesi Laura , Falace Annalisa , Kaleb Sara , Hernandez‐Kantun Jazmin J. , Cerrano Carlo , Rindi Fabio
Published: November 2016

Lithophyllum byssoides is a common coralline alga in the intertidal zone of Mediterranean coasts, where it produces biogenic concretions housing a high algal and invertebrate biodiversity. This species is an ecosystem engineer and is considered a target for conservation efforts, but designing effective conservation strategies currently is impossible due to lack of information about its population structure. The morphological and molecular variation of L. byssoides was investigated using morphoanatomy and DNA sequences (psbA and cox2,3) obtained from populations at 15 localities on the Italian and Croatian coasts. Lithophyllum byssoides exhibited a high number of haplotypes (31 psbA haplotypes and 24 cox2,3 haplotypes) in the central Mediterranean. The psbA and cox2,3 phylogenies were congruent and showed seven lineages. For most of these clades, the distribution was limited to one or a few localities, but one of them (clade 7) was widespread across the central Mediterranean, spanning the main biogeographic boundaries recognized in this area. The central Mediterranean populations formed a lineage separate from Atlantic samples; psbA pair‐wise divergences suggested that recognition of Atlantic and Mediterranean L. byssoides as different species may be appropriate. The central Mediterranean haplotype patterns of L. byssoides were interpreted as resulting from past climatic events in the hydrogeological history of the Mediterranean Sea. The high haplotype diversity and the restricted spatial distribution of the seven lineages suggest that individual populations should be managed as independent units.
A novel hepatitis B virus subgenotype D10 circulating in Ethiopia
Authors: Hundie G. B. , Stalin Raj V. , Gebre Michael D. , Pas S. D. , Koopmans M. P. , Osterhaus A. D. M. E. , Smits S. L. , Haagmans B. L.
Published: November 2016

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is genetically highly divergent and classified in ten genotypes and forty subgenotypes in distinct ethno‐geographic populations worldwide. Ethiopia is a country with high HBV prevalence; however, little is known about the genetic variability of HBV strains that circulate. Here, we characterize the complete genome of 29 HBV strains originating from five Ethiopian regions, by 454 deep sequencing and Sanger sequencing. Phylogenetically, ten strains were classified as genotype A1 and nineteen as genotype D. Fifteen genotype D strains, provisionally named subgenotype D10, showed a novel distinct cluster supported by high bootstrap value and >4% nucleotide divergence from other known subgenotypes. In addition, the novel D10 strains harboured nine unique amino acid signatures in the surface, polymerase and X genes. Seventy‐two per cent of the genotype D strains had the precore premature stop codon G1896A. In addition, 63% genotype A and 33% genotype D strains had the basal core promoter mutations, A1762T/G1764A. Furthermore, four pre‐S deletion variants and two recombinants were identified in this study. In conclusion, we identified a novel HBV subgenotype D10 circulating in Ethiopia, underlining the high genetic variability of HBV strains in Africa.
Highly restricted gene flow between disjunct populations of the skunk clownfish (Amphiprion akallopisos) in the Indian Ocean
Authors: Huyghe Filip , Kochzius Marc
Published: November 2016

The skunk clownfish (Amphiprion akallopisos) has a disjunct distribution, occurring in the Eastern Indian Ocean (EIO) and the Western Indian Ocean (WIO), separated by several thousands of kilometres. Information on connectivity of marine species is very important for the correct spacing of marine protected areas, a powerful instrument for the protection of coral reefs. The population genetic structure of A. akallopisos was analysed in order to investigate connectivity amongst populations and to explain the disjunct distribution of the species. A fragment of the mitochondrial control region was used to investigate the genetic population structure. Fin clips were collected from 263 individuals at 14 sites in the WIO and three sites in the EIO. The obtained DNA sequences were used to calculate genetic diversity, evaluate demographic history and to construct a haplotype network. An analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) was conducted to evaluate the significance of the observed genetic population structure. None of the identified 69 haplotypes was shared between the WIO and EIO. Haplotype as well as nucleotide diversity was considerably higher in the EIO than in the WIO. Significant genetic population structure was revealed by an AMOVA with an overall φst‐value of 0.28 (P < 0.001) in the Indian Ocean. The overall AMOVA (φst = −0.00652) was not significant in the EIO, but was significant in the WIO (φst = 0.016; P < 0.01). Demographic analysis indicated population expansion in the EIO and WIO. Population genetic analysis revealed highly restricted gene flow between the EIO and WIO. Genetic diversity was much higher in the EIO than in the WIO, suggesting that the EIO is the geographical origin of the species. Given the large distance between the disjunct populations and the short pelagic larval duration, long‐distance dispersal is rather unlikely. A stepping stone model involving islands in the Central Indian Ocean is a more likely scenario for colonization of the WIO.
Inter‐ and intra‐colonial genotypic diversity in hermatypic hydrozoans of the family Milleporidae
Authors: Schweinsberg Maximilian , Tollrian Ralph , Lampert Kathrin P.
Published: November 2016

Genetic diversity is the basis for adaptation and therefore of primary scientific interest, especially in species that are threatened by anthropogenic challenges, e.g. climate change and/or pollution. Coral reefs are among the most threatened but also the most diverse ecosystems and have therefore been studied quite extensively. So far, most investigations have focused on scleractinian corals while the equally important reef builders, the hydrozoans, have been less considered. Here we provide the first study of genotypic variability as well as intra‐colonial genetic variability, the co‐occurrence of more than one genotype within a single colony, in Milleporidae based on microsatellites. We analysed two geographically distinct populations from the Millepora dichotoma complex, one from the Red Sea and one from the Great Barrier Reef. Additionally, a population of Millepora platyphylla was analysed from French Polynesia. We compared microsatellite multilocus genotypes and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I haplotypes for each of the three field sites to detect levels of genotypic diversity at the intra‐ and inter‐specific levels. Furthermore, we examined all species for the occurrence of intra‐colonial genetic variability, a recently described mechanism in scleractinian corals that might enhance the adaptive potential of sessile organisms. We found both species and all field sites to be genotypically variable. Twelve mitochondrial haplotypes and 27 multilocus microsatellite genotypes were identified. In addition, intra‐colonial genetic variability was detected in the M. dichotoma complex from the Great Barrier Reef as well as in M. platyphylla from French Polynesia. All of the intra‐colonial genetically variable colonies consisted of one main genotype and a second divergent genotype caused by somatic mutations (mosaicism). Our study proves that Milleporidae are genetically variable and that the phenomenon of intra‐colonial genetic variability also occurs in this important reef‐building family.
Infusing Physical Activities Into the Classroom: Effects on Preschool Children's Geography Learning
Authors: Mavilidi Myrto‐Foteini , Okely Anthony D. , Chandler Paul , Paas Fred
Published: November 2016

In this intervention study, we investigated the effects of physical activities that were integrated into a geography task on preschool children's learning performance and enjoyment. Eight childcare centers with 87 four‐to‐five‐year‐old children were randomly assigned across an integrated physical activity condition, an unintegrated physical activity condition, and a control condition without physical activity. Children learned the names and a typical animal from each of the six continents using a floor‐mounted world map with soft toy animals. Both learning conditions with physical activities showed higher performance than the learning condition without physical activities on an immediate retention test, and on a delayed retention test administered five weeks later. In addition, children in the physical activity conditions (integrated and nonintegrated) enjoyed their learning method the most. Infusing task‐relevant physical activities into the classroom and the learning task is discussed as a promising way to improve children's learning, enjoyment, and health.
Rational Learners and Moral Rules
Authors: Nichols Shaun , Kumar Shikhar , Lopez Theresa , Ayars Alisabeth , Chan Hoi‐Yee
Published: November 2016

People draw subtle distinctions in the normative domain. But it remains unclear exactly what gives rise to such distinctions. On one prominent approach, emotion systems trigger non‐utilitarian judgments. The main alternative, inspired by Chomskyan linguistics, suggests that moral distinctions derive from an innate moral grammar. In this article, we draw on Bayesian learning theory to develop a rational learning account. We argue that the ‘size principle’, which is implicated in word learning, can also explain how children would use scant and equivocal evidence to interpret candidate rules as applying more narrowly than utilitarian rules.
HMGA2 is associated with the aggressiveness of tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang H , Tang Z , Deng C , He Y , Wu F , Liu O , Hu C
Published: November 2016

Objective

To analyze the effects of HMGA2 on proliferation, invasion, and metastasis in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC).

Methods

HMGA2 knockdown was performed in SCC15 cell lines, and functional assay was applied to observe the effects on cell migration and invasion. Real‐time PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were also used to measure the expression of HMGA2 and EMT markers.

Results

HMGA2 expression was decreased after lentivirus infection. Functional assay showed that silence of HMGA2 can inhibit the proliferation of SCC15 cells and arrest the cells in G1/S phase. Moreover, knockdown of HMGA2 enhanced apoptosis of SCC15 cells. Wound‐healing assay and transwell assay indicated that knockdown of HMGA2 significantly inhibited migration and invasion ability of SCC15 cells. Expression detection suggested that HMGA2 may be involved in the metastasis of SCC15 cells by activating Twist family expression and inducing epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. IHC analysis showed that HMGA2 and vimentin were up‐regulated in TSCC tissues, while E‐cadherin was down‐regulated. Clinicopathological analysis indicated that expression of HMGA2, E‐cadherin, and Vimentin were associated with recurrence of patients with TSCC.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated that HMGA2 may promote malignant transformation of TSCC through EMT process and may be an independent prognosis biomarker for TSCC.
An ‘accidental’ incident leading to an incidental finding of Gorlin–Goltz syndrome in a child
Authors: Mooney E. , Marley J.J. , Napier S.S.
Published: November 2016

A 6‐year‐old boy was referred to the oral surgery department for assessment of a cyst‐like lesion in the left body of mandible. The child had previously been managed for developmental delay and a syndromic appearance by medical colleagues with no firm diagnosis. Histology of the lesion confirmed a keratocystic odontogenic tumour (KCOT) and pointed towards a diagnosis of Gorlin–Goltz syndrome (GGS) when combined with other clinical features and confirmed by genetic testing. This case highlights the importance of team work, appropriate and proportionate application of different imaging modalities to characterise intraosseous lesions in children and monitoring for interval change, as well as the conservative approach to management of such lesions in younger patients. Prognosis improves with early recognition of clinical and radiographic manifestations of GGS facilitated by multi‐disciplinary involvement. This may reduce the severity of complications including maxillofacial deformities associated with jaw KCOTs and malignant skin and brain tumours.
Investigation of the Utility of the Audible Alert in Recent Generation Medtronic Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators
Authors: MANANDHAR MERYNA , NEMIROVSKY DMITRY , FEIGENBLUM DAVID Y. , SIMONS GRANT R.
Published: November 2016

Background

Medtronic implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs; Medtronic Inc., Mounds View, MN, USA) are equipped with Patient Alert™, a feature in which the ICD generator emits a series of audible tones to notify patients of possible system malfunction. A prior study of this issue revealed that only 50% of patients with older Medtronic devices were able to hear alerts. More recently, Medtronic has incorporated modifications to the alert. Therefore, we studied how frequently alert tones emitted by the current generation of Medtronic ICDs are audible by patients.

Methods

A series of patients were evaluated in an outpatient ICD clinic. Alert tones were demonstrated using a device programmer in a quiet room and in the presence of low‐level background noise. Patients reported whether they heard the tones, and they completed questionnaires regarding the tones.

Results

The total sample size was 100 patients, 81 male, who ranged from 29 years to 94 years of age (mean age 72.1 ± 11.8). Among the study subjects, 46% were older than 75 years, 41% were between 55 years and 75 years, and 13% were younger than 55 years. In the absence of background noise, 94% of patients were able to hear both alerts, 1% heard only one alert, and 5% heard neither. In the presence of background noise, 88% of patients heard both the alerts, 7% heard only one alert, and 5% heard neither alerts.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that alert tones in recent generation Medtronic ICDs have improved audibility, compared to prior published data, among a large outpatient ICD population.
Distance is associated with mortality on the waitlist in pediatric liver transplantation
Authors: Adler Joel T. , Bababekov Yanik J. , Markmann James F. , Chang David C. , Yeh Heidi
Published: November 2016

The distance to liver transplant centers affects outcomes in adult liver transplantation. Because pediatric patients are particularly vulnerable, we hypothesized that distance adversely affects the time to transplantation and waitlist mortality. The SRTR was queried for isolated pediatric liver transplant registrants (under age 18) with valid ZIP code information from 2003 to 2012. Distance was measured from home ZIP code to listing transplant center. Competing events analysis, adjusted for demographic factors, indication, and PELD, was undertaken for transplantation and death while on the waitlist. The median distance to listing transplant center for 6924 children was 65 (IQR 17.5‐189) miles. Median distance traveled increased by listing volume (73.9 vs 33.8 miles, highest vs lowest volume quartile, P<.001 for trend) and varied across the country. Longer distance was not associated with time to transplantation (HR 0.99, longest vs shortest distance quartile, P=.80), but was associated with increased mortality (HR 1.75, P<.001). Larger centers attract patients from a distance, while smaller centers serve local populations. Increasing distance is associated with a higher risk of waitlist death, which may reflect decreased access to specialist and tertiary care associated with a transplant center.
Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry for the spatial location of feline oviductal proteins
Authors: Apparicio M , Santos VG , Rocha DFO , Ferreira CR , Macente BI , Magalhães GM , Alves AE , Motheo TF , Padilha‐Nakaghi LC , Pires‐Buttler EA , Luvoni GC , Eberlin MN , Vicente WRR
Published: November 2016

Contents

With the purpose of identifying factors involved in early stages of embryo development in the domestic cat, matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI‐IMS) was used for the first time to describe the spatial localization of proteins in the oviducts of queens. Oviducts were obtained from two 2 and 4 years old cross‐bred queens, divided into three segments, snap‐frozen in liquid nitrogen and then stored at −80°C until use. Next, they were sectioned in a cryostat, fixed on ITO (indium tin oxide) conductive glass slides for MALDI‐IMS and serial sections were collected on microscope slides for histology. As confirmed by histology, MALDI‐IMS was able to show contrasting protein distributions in the oviductal infundibulum, ampulla and isthmus. Mass spectra were characterized by abundant ions of m/z 1,259, 4,939, 4,960 and 10,626, which have been tentatively attributed to keratin, thymosin β10, thymosin β4 and S100, respectively. Keratin and thymosins are involved in the biological response to tissue damage. S100 proteins are calcium‐modulated proteins implicated in a variety of cellular activities, including cell differentiation and regulation of cell motility. These results suggest that protein composition differs between segments of the cat oviduct, which corresponds to morphological changes within these sections. Further functional studies could elucidate the effects of these proteins on feline reproductive physiology.
Activin A and follistatin in patients with asthma. Does severity make the difference?
Authors: Papaporfyriou Anastasia , Bakakos Petros , Kostikas Konstantinos , Papatheodorou Georgios , Hillas Georgios , Trigidou Rodoula , Katafigiotis Patroklos , Koulouris Nikolaos G. , Papiris Spyros A. , Loukides Stelios
Published: November 2016

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

Activin A is a pleiotropic cytokine holding a fundamental role in inflammation and tissue remodelling. Follistatin can modulate the bioactivity of activin. We aimed to measure activin A and follistatin in sputum supernatants and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) of asthmatic patients and to determine the possible associations with severity as well as with inflammatory and remodelling indices.

Methods

A total of 58 asthmatic patients (33 with severe refractory asthma (SRA)) and 10 healthy controls underwent sputum induction for % cells, activin A, follistatin, eosinophilic cationic protein (ECP), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF‐β1), IL‐13 and IL‐8 measurements. In 22 asthmatic patients, BAL and bronchial biopsies were also performed for the assessment of the above‐mentioned variables, measurement of remodelling indices and immunostaining for different activin A receptors.

Results

Sputum activin A (pg/mL) was higher in patients with SRA (median (interquartile ranges): 76 (33–185)) compared to mild‐to‐moderate asthma (44 (18–84); P = 0.005), whereas follistatin did not differ between the two groups. BAL activin A (pg/mL) was higher in patients with SRA compared to those with mild‐to‐moderate disease. A significant association was observed between activin A and TGF‐β1, eosinophils in sputum and/or in BAL, while reticular basement membrane (RBM) thickness was significantly associated with BAL activin levels only. No difference in immunostaining for activin receptor type IB was observed between patients with SRA and those with mild‐to‐moderate asthma.

Conclusion

Sputum and BAL levels of activin A are higher in SRA. The association of activin A with TGF‐β1, eosinophils and RBM thickness may indicate a role of this cytokine in the inflammatory and remodelling process in SRA.
New Statistics For Old?—Measuring the Wellbeing of The UK
Authors: Allin Paul , Hand David J.
Published: November 2016

Attempts to create measures of national wellbeing and progress have a long history. In the UK, they go back at least as far as the 1790s, with Sir John Sinclair's Statistical Account of Scotland. More recently, worldwide interest has led to the creation of various indices seeking to go beyond familiar economic measures like gross domestic product. We review the ‘Measuring national well-being’ development programme of the UK's Office for National Statistics and explore some of the challenges which need to be faced to bring wider measures into use. These include the importance of getting the measures adopted as policy drivers, how to challenge the continuing dominance of economic measures, sustainability and environmental issues, international comparability and methodological statistical questions.
Emergency Department Youth Patients With Suicidal Ideation or Attempts: Predicting Suicide Attempts Through 18 Months of Follow‐Up
Authors: Rosenbaum Asarnow Joan , Berk Michele , Zhang Lily , Wang Peter , Tang Lingqi
Published: November 2016

This prospective study of suicidal emergency department (ED) patients (ages 10–18) examined the timing, cumulative probability, and predictors of suicide attempts through 18 months of follow‐up. The cumulative probability of attempts was as follows: .15 at 6 months, .22 at 1 year, and .24 by 18 months. One attempt was fatal, yielding a death rate of .006. Significant predictors of suicide attempt risk included a suicide attempt at ED presentation (vs. suicidal ideation only), nonsuicidal self‐injurious behavior, and low levels of delinquent symptoms. Results underscore the importance of both prior suicide attempts and nonsuicidal self‐harm as risk indicators for future and potentially lethal suicide attempts.
Who stops the sweatshops? Our neglect of the injustice of maldistribution
Authors: Jankowski Glen S.
Published: November 2016

Researchers have attempted to hold fashion, beauty, and toy industries' promotion of narrow beauty ideals responsible for the injustice of body dissatisfaction. We advocate for reform by calling upon the industries to represent plus‐sized and older models (e.g., on catwalks) as antidotes to narrow beauty ideals, citing evidence that the use of such models are no less profitable. This attempts to address what Fraser () calls the injustice of misrecognition. This advocacy however not only masks another injustice these industries perpetuate: maldistribution (Fraser, ), but it can actively worsen it. This is most poignantly exemplified by the 250 million sweatshop workers in the Global South working in these industries. Those of us advocating against these industries' injustices are encouraged to join People and Planet in their campaign to use universities' vast purchasing power for sweatshop reform. This is one small way to advocate against maldistribution, redressing the imbalance.
Aseptic meningitis following therapy with immune globulins: a combination of product features and patient characteristics?
Authors: Berg Roger , Fuellenhals Elisabeth
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

Aseptic meningitis (AM) represents a recognized side effect of immune globulin (IG) therapy and may warrant additional diagnostic procedures and therapy with anti‐infective drugs until a definite diagnosis can be established. Although, to date, only small case series have been published, the objective of the current study was to investigate a large case series of patients with AM.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The pharmacovigilance safety database of a 10% liquid IG (Gammagard Liquid) was queried for all reports of AM. Patient demographics, treatment‐specific data, and product‐specific data were determined. The proportional reporting rates of AM were compared according to the route of administration (intravenous vs. subcutaneous) and molecular size distribution of IG lot (dimer content ≥ 8 vs. < 8%).

RESULTS

In total, 144 AM episodes were reported in 136 distinct patients. Females were affected by AM nearly four times more than males. AM was not limited to patients who received high‐dose IG therapies but was observed in those who received low‐dose regimens in percentages comparable to the estimated usage patterns of IG. Lots that had high dimer values were associated with AM significantly more often than lots that had low dimer values (p < 0.001), and subcutaneous IG administration was associated with lower rates of AM compared with intravenous IG administration (p = 0.055).

CONCLUSION

In contrast to previously published data, AM was observed in both low‐dose and high‐dose regimens without favoring high IG doses, and females were affected nearly four times more often than males. Immunoglobulin G dimers may play a role in the etiology of AM, and subcutaneous administration may be associated with a lower rate of AM compared with intravenous administration.
Blood products use in France: a nationwide cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Fillet Anne‐Marie , Desmarets Maxime , Assari Suzanne , Quaranta Jean‐François , François Anne , Pugin Aurore , Schuhmacher Anne , Lassale Bernard , Monnet Elisabeth , Cabre Philippe , Legrand Dominique , Binda Delphine , Djoudi Rachid
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

Blood products use has increased in France between 2000 and 2011. To understand the reasons for this increase, data about transfused patients and transfusion practices needed to be updated.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A nationwide cross‐sectional survey was performed with health care establishments. Diagnoses and indication for the transfusion, pretransfusion laboratory results, and blood products used were collected during a randomly selected 24‐hour period in 2011. All patients who received at least one blood product delivered on the survey day were included.

RESULTS

A total of 10,794 blood products were requested for 4720 patients: 8688 red blood cell (RBC) units, 842 platelet (PLT) concentrates, and 1264 fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP) units. Hematologic and cancer pathologies included 46% of transfused patients, 34% of the patients had transfusions in a surgical context, and 32.4% of transfused patients were receiving medication with an impact on transfusion. Nearly half of RBC transfusions were performed with hemoglobin levels of less than 8 g/dL. PLT transfusions for prophylactic indication were prescribed with PLT counts of less than 20 × 109 and 50 × 109/L in 56.9 and 86.6% of patients, respectively. RBCs and PLTs transfusion practices were in agreement with national guidelines. FFP units were involved in 8.0% of all prescriptions. Among these, 57.4% were requested in the context of an acute hemorrhage and 8.4% for plasma exchange. The median of FFP use (n = 2) in a nonsurgical context, excluding plasma exchange, suggests an insufficient dosing of FFP.

CONCLUSION

Except for insufficient FFP dosing per patient and limitations on assessment of indications for prescribing, transfusion practices were in agreement with national guidelines.
Properties of donated red blood cell components from patients with hereditary hemochromatosis
Authors: Sut Caroline , Hamzeh‐Cognasse Hind , Laradi Sandrine , Bost Vincent , Aubrège Christine , Acquart Sophie , Vignal Martine , Boutahar Nadia , Arthaud Charles Antoine , Ange Eyraud Marie , Pozzetto Bruno , Tiberghien Pierre , Garraud Olivier , Cognasse Fabrice
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

Red blood cells (RBCs) contain large amounts of iron, and periodic therapeutic phlebotomy is thus the main treatment for hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). However, the donation of therapeutic phlebotomy products from asymptomatic patients for transfusion purposes remains controversial. In this study, we compared the quality of RBCs obtained from HH patients with those of non‐HH RBCs, within the allowed 42‐day storage period.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

RBCs were obtained from HH patient donors and random regular blood donors by whole blood collection. RBCs were stored for up to 42 days, according to national regulations and standard blood bank conditions in France. The following variables were assessed: hematologic and biochemical results, RBC membrane and soluble inflammatory markers, and the proinflammatory potential of HH RBC supernatant toward endothelial cells in an in vitro model.

RESULTS

There were no major differences between the two groups in terms of biophysical, biochemical, or soluble immunomodulatory factors. However, we observed small but significant differences in changes in RBC membrane proteins during storage, including increased phosphatidylserine expression and decreased hemolysis in HH compared with normal RBCs. However, there were no differences in terms of bioactivity of soluble immunomodulatory factors in the RBC supernatant during storage between HH and control donors, as determined by their effects on endothelial cells in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

These in vitro studies suggest that RBCs from HH patients appear, while exhibiting subtle differences, to be suitable for transfusion purposes according to currently accepted criteria.
How Do the Trans‐Pacific Economies Affect the USA? An Industrial Sector Approach
Authors: Yagihashi Takeshi , Selover David D.
Published: November 2016

This paper studies how the Trans‐Pacific region affects theUSeconomy in terms of business cycle transmission. We use a large data set consisting of disaggregated sectoral industrial production indexes from selected countries in the region and employ a factor‐augmented vector autoregression (FAVAR) approach to analyse the transmission of shocks in different industries. We find that a positive output shock in the entire Trans‐Pacific region has positive effects on the majority ofUSmanufacturing sectors. We also find that sectoral shocks in five sectors of the Trans‐Pacific region have a large impact on the overallUSeconomy. Three of the five sectors displayed strong same‐sector responses relative to the overall response, suggesting that vertical production linkages might play a key role in the transmission of shocks. Our results highlight the importance of examining industrial sectors in studying the transmission of shocks in the Trans‐Pacific region.
Cholinergic modulation of the parafacial respiratory group
Authors: Boutin Rozlyn C. T. , Alsahafi Zaki , Pagliardini Silvia
Published: November 2016

Key points

This study investigates the effects of cholinergic transmission on the expiratory oscillator, the parafacial respiratory group (pFRG) in urethane anaesthetized adult rats.

Local inhibition of the acetyl cholinesterase enzyme induced activation of expiratory abdominal muscles and active expiration.

Local application of the cholinomimetic carbachol elicited recruitment of late expiratory neurons, expiratory abdominal muscle activity and active expiration. This effect was antagonized by local application of the muscarinic antagonists scopolamine, J104129 and 4DAMP.

We observed distinct physiological responses between the more medial chemosensitive region of the retrotrapezoid nucleus and the more lateral region of pFRG.

These results support the hypothesis that pFRG is under cholinergic neuromodulation and the region surrounding the facial nucleus contains a group of neurons with distinct physiological roles.

Active inspiration and expiration are opposing respiratory phases generated by two separate oscillators in the brainstem: inspiration driven by a neuronal network located in the preBötzinger complex (preBötC) and expiration driven by a neuronal network located in the parafacial respiratory group (pFRG). While continuous activity of the preBötC is necessary for maintaining ventilation, the pFRG behaves as a conditional expiratory oscillator, being silent in resting conditions and becoming rhythmically active in the presence of increased respiratory drive (e.g. hypoxia, hypercapnia, exercise and through release of inhibition). Recent evidence from our laboratory suggests that expiratory activity in the principal expiratory pump muscles, the abdominals, is modulated in a state‐dependent fashion, frequently occurring during periods of REM sleep. We hypothesized that acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter released in wakefulness and REM sleep by mesopontine structures, contributes to the activation of pFRG neurons and thus acts to promote the recruitment of expiratory abdominal muscle activity. We investigated the stimulatory effect of cholinergic neurotransmission on pFRG activity and recruitment of active expiration in vivo under anaesthesia. We demonstrate that local application of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor physostigmine into the pFRG potentiated expiratory activity. Furthermore, local application of the cholinomimetic carbachol into the pFRG activated late expiratory neurons and induced long lasting rhythmic active expiration. This effect was completely abolished by pre‐application of the muscarinic antagonist scopolamine, and more selective M3 antagonists 4DAMP and J104129. We conclude that cholinergic muscarinic transmission contributes to excitation of pFRG neurons and promotes both active recruitment of abdominal muscles and active expiratory flow.
Design Optimization Toward Alleviating Forced Response Variation in Cyclically Periodic Structure Using Gaussian Process
Authors: Zhou K. , Hegde A. , Cao P. , Tang J.
Published: November 2016

Cyclically periodic structures, such as bladed disk assemblies in turbomachinery, are widely used in engineering systems. It is well known that small uncertainties exist among their substructures, which in certain situations may cause drastic change in the dynamic responses, a phenomenon known as vibration localization. Previous studies have suggested that the introduction of small, prespecified design modification, i.e., intentional mistuning, may alleviate vibration localization and reduce response variation. However, there has been no systematic methodology to facilitate the optimal design of intentional mistuning. The most significant challenge is the computational cost involved. The finite-element model of a bladed disk usually requires a very large number of degrees-of-freedom (DOFs). When uncertainties occur in a cyclically periodic structure, the response may no longer be considered as simple perturbation to that of the nominal structure. In this research, a suite of interrelated algorithms is proposed to enable the efficient design optimization of cyclically periodic structures toward alleviating their forced response variation. We first integrate model order reduction with a perturbation scheme to reduce the scale of analysis of a single run. Then, as the core of the new methodology, we incorporate Gaussian process (GP) emulation to conduct the rapid sampling-based evaluation of the design objective, which is a metric of response variation under uncertainties, in the parametric space. The optimal design modification can thus be directly identified to minimize the response variation. The efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed methodology are demonstrated by systematic case studies.