bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidase IV by enzymatic hydrolysates derived from primary and secondary whey of fresh and Oaxaca cheeses
Authors: Mares‐Mares Everardo , Barboza‐Corona José E , Sosa‐Morales María Elena , Gutiérrez‐Chávez Abner J , Gutiérrez‐Vargas Santiago , León‐Galván Ma Fabiola
Published: July 2019

Currently, there is an interest in studying natural inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP‐IV) for the treatment of type II diabetes. To look for novel inhibitors, the primary and secondary whey of fresh and Oaxaca cheeses was obtained, and the electrophoretic patterns were determined. Hydrolysis with pepsin and trypsin of primary and secondary whey from fresh and Oaxaca cheeses, respectively, showed DPP‐IV inhibition with values of ~51 and 55%, and also an IC50 of 92.86 μg/mL for Oaxaca cheese‐derived peptides. Data show the potential of whey enzymatic hydrolysates from fresh and Oaxaca cheeses as antidiabetic agents.
Semi‐quantitative characterisation of mixed pollen samples using MinION sequencing and Reverse Metagenomics (RevMet)
Authors: Peel Ned , Dicks Lynn V. , Clark Matthew D. , Heavens Darren , Percival‐Alwyn Lawrence , Cooper Chris , Davies Richard G. , Leggett Richard M. , Yu Douglas W.
Published: July 2019

The ability to identify and quantify the constituent plant species that make up a mixed‐species sample of pollen has important applications in ecology, conservation, and agriculture. Recently, metabarcoding protocols have been developed for pollen that can identify constituent plant species, but there are strong reasons to doubt that metabarcoding can accurately quantify their relative abundances. A PCR‐free, shotgun metagenomics approach has greater potential for accurately quantifying species relative abundances, but applying metagenomics to eukaryotes is challenging due to low numbers of reference genomes.

We have developed a pipeline, RevMet (Reverse Metagenomics) that allows reliable and semi‐quantitative characterization of the species composition of mixed‐species eukaryote samples, such as bee‐collected pollen, without requiring reference genomes. Instead, reference species are represented only by ‘genome skims’: low‐cost, low‐coverage, short‐read sequence datasets. The skims are mapped to individual long reads sequenced from mixed‐species samples using the MinION, a portable nanopore sequencing device, and each long read is uniquely assigned to a plant species.

We genome‐skimmed 49 wild UK plant species, validated our pipeline with mock DNA mixtures of known composition, and then applied RevMet to pollen loads collected from wild bees. We demonstrate that RevMet can identify plant species present in mixed‐species samples at proportions of DNA ≥ 1%, with few false positives and false negatives, and reliably differentiate species represented by high versus low amounts of DNA in a sample.

RevMet could readily be adapted to generate semi‐quantitative datasets for a wide range of mixed eukaryote samples. Our per‐sample costs were £90 per genome skim and £60 per pollen sample, and new versions of sequencers available now will further reduce these costs.
Alcohol use disorders and the heart
Authors: Day Ed , Rudd James H. F.
Published: July 2019

Alcohol use is an important preventable and modifiable cause of non‐communicable disease, and has complex effects on the cardiovascular system that vary with dose. Observational and prospective studies have consistently shown a lower risk of cardiovascular and all‐cause mortality in people with low levels of alcohol consumption when compared to abstainers (the ‘J’‐shaped curve). Maximum potential benefit occurs at 0.5 to one standard drinks (7–14 g pure ethanol) per day for women (18% lower all‐cause mortality, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 13–22%) and one to two standard drinks (14–28 g ethanol) per day for men (17% lower all‐cause mortality, 95% CI = 15–19%). However, this evidence is contested, and overall the detrimental effects of alcohol far outweigh the beneficial effects, with the risk of premature mortality increasing steadily after an average consumption of 10 g ethanol/day. Blood pressure (BP) is increased by regular alcohol consumption in a dose‐dependent manner, with a relative risk for hypertension (systolic BP > 140 mm Hg or diastolic > 90 mm Hg) of 1.7 for 50 g ethanol/day and 2.5 at 100 g/day. Important reductions in BP readings can be expected after as little as 1 month of abstinence from alcohol. Heavy alcohol consumption in a binge pattern is associated with the development of acute cardiac arrhythmia, even in people with normal heart function. Atrial fibrillation is the most common arrhythmia associated with chronic high‐volume alcohol intake, and above 14 g alcohol/day the relative risk increases 10% for every extra standard drink (14 g ethanol). Ethanol and its metabolites have toxic effects on cardiac myocytes, and alcoholic cardiomyopathy (ACM) accounts for a third of all cases of non‐ischaemic dilated cardiomyopathy. Screening people drinking alcohol above low‐volume levels and delivering a brief intervention may prevent the development of cardiovascular complications. Although people with established cardiovascular disease show improved outcomes with a reduction to low‐volume alcohol consumption, there is no safe amount of alcohol to drink and patients with ACM should aim for abstinence in order to optimize medical treatment.
Mechanisms and therapeutic strategies for non‐T2 asthma
Authors: Sze Eric , Bhalla Anurag , Nair Parameswaran
Published: July 2019

Non‐T2 asthma is traditionally defined as asthma without features of T2 asthma. The definition is arbitrary and is generally based on the presence of neutrophils in sputum, or the absence (or normal levels) of eosinophils or other T2 markers in sputum (paucigranulocytic), airway biopsies or in blood. This definition may be imprecise as we gain more knowledge from applying transcriptomics and proteomics to blood and airway samples. The prevalence of non‐T2 asthma is also difficult to estimate as most studies are cross‐sectional and influenced by concomitant treatment with glucocorticosteroids, and by the presence of recognized or unrecognized airway infections. No specific therapies have shown any clinical benefits in patients with asthma that is associated with a non‐T2 inflammatory process. It remains to be seen if such an endotype truly exists and to identify treatments to target that endotype. Meanwhile, identifying intense airway neutrophilia as an indicator of airway infection and airway hyperresponsiveness as an indicator of smooth muscle dysfunction, and treating them appropriately, and not increasing glucocorticosteroids in patients who do not have obvious T2 inflammation, seem reasonable.
The effect of less invasive surfactant administration on cerebral oxygenation in preterm infants
Authors: Hanke Kathrin , Rausch Tanja K. , Paul Pia , Hellwig Isabel , Krämer Christina , Stichtenoth Guido , Herz Alexander , Wieg Christian , König Inke R. , Göpel Wolfgang , Herting Egbert , Härtel Christoph
Published: July 2019

Aim

To determine the regional cerebral tissue oxygenation saturation (rcSO2) in a group of infants requiring less invasive surfactant administration (LISA) as compared to infants with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) only.

Methods

In preterm infants with a gestational age 26 0/7‐31 6/7 weeks, we conducted an observational study using near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) in the first 120 hours of life.

Results

We analysed the data of 22 infants who never received surfactant (CPAP), 22 infants had LISA and CPAP (LISA) and 6 infants received surfactant via endotracheal tube (ETT). Four infants had both surfactant application modes including six LISA applications. In total, there were 32 successful LISA applications but 44 attempts; 13/44 (30%) of LISA attempts resulted in a 20% decrease of rcSO2. During the first 120 hours of life, rcSO2 values of CPAP were similar to those of infants in the LISA group, that is median rcSO2 values 90% vs 85%, respectively (P = .126). Episodes with rcSO2 values <65% were 0.4% in the CPAP group as compared to 4.8% in the LISA group (P < .001).

Conclusion

Our observational data indicate that rcSO2 values of infants in the LISA group were similar to the CPAP group.
Liver injury is most commonly due to hepatic metastases rather than drug hepatotoxicity during pembrolizumab immunotherapy
Authors: Tsung Irene , Dolan Russell , Lao Christopher D. , Fecher Leslie , Riggenbach Kane , Yeboah‐Korang Amoah , Fontana Robert J.
Published: July 2019

Background

Pembrolizumab immunotherapy has been associated with hepatotoxicity in 1%‐10% of oncology patients treated in clinical trials.

Aim

To describe the incidence, phenotypes and outcomes of liver injury in a large cohort of solid organ tumour patients receiving pembrolizumab

Methods

Liver injury was defined by serum alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and/or total bilirubin levels exceeding threshold values. The likelihood of drug‐induced liver injury was adjudicated by expert opinion.

Results

Seventy (14.3%) of the 491 pembrolizumab‐treated patients developed liver injury at a median of 62 days (6‐478) and 71.4% had a cholestatic injury profile at onset. The median age, gender and tumour types of liver injury patients were similar to those without, but hepatic metastases (53% vs 21%, P < 0.01) and prior systemic and liver‐directed therapy (71% vs 53%, P < 0.01) were more commonly observed in liver injury patients. During follow‐up, liver injury patients were less likely to experience tumour remission (10% vs 40.4%) and had higher mortality (67.1% vs 33.7%). Only 20 (28.6%) liver injury cases were adjudicated as probable drug‐induced hepatotoxicity; these patients were significantly more likely to present with an hepatocellular/mixed injury pattern (65% vs 12%), to receive corticosteroids (55% vs 12%) and had lower mortality (45% vs 76%) during follow‐up.

Conclusions

Oncology patients treated with pembrolizumab who develop liver injury experience poorer outcomes during follow‐up. The low incidence of confirmed drug hepatotoxicity highlights the need for thorough medical evaluation before initiating corticosteroids to optimise patient care.
Review article: biological mechanisms for symptom causation by individual FODMAP subgroups ‐ the case for a more personalised approach to dietary restriction
Authors: Wang Xiao Jing , Camilleri Michael , Vanner Stephen , Tuck Caroline
Published: July 2019

Background

Due to the paucity of targeted therapy for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), many patients turn to dietary modifications for symptom management. The combination of five subgroups of poorly absorbed and rapidly fermented carbohydrates—fructans, galacto‐oligosaccharides, lactose, excess fructose and polyols—are thought to trigger gastrointestinal symptoms and are referred to collectively as “FODMAPs”.

Aims

To examine the biological plausibility and mechanisms by which foods high in specific FODMAP subgroups cause symptoms, and to use this information to explore the possibility of targeting select dietary components to allow for a more personalised approach to dietary adjustment

Methods

Recent literature was analysed via search databases including Medline, PubMed and Scopus.

Results

Lactose, fructans and galacto‐oligosaccharides have strong biologic plausibility for symptom generation due to lack of hydrolases resulting in distention from osmosis and rapid fermentation. However, excess fructose and polyols may only cause symptoms in specific individuals when consumed in high doses, but this remains to be established. There is evidence to suggest that certain patient characteristics such as ethnicity may predict response to lactose, but differentiation of other subgroups is difficult prior to dietary manipulation.

Conclusions

While some clear mechanisms of action for symptom generation have been established, further research is needed to understand which patients will respond to specific FODMAP subgroup restriction. We suggest that clinicians consider in some patients a tailored, personalised “bottom‐up” approach to the low‐FODMAP diet, such as dietary restriction relevant to the patients’ ethnicity, symptom profile and usual dietary intake.
Pathological characteristics of thyroid glands from Japanese Black Cattle living in the restricted area of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident
Authors: Sasaki Jun , Uehara Megumi , Sato Itaru , Satoh Hiroshi , Deguchi Yoshitaka , Chida Hiroyuki , Natsuhori Masahiro , Murata Takahisa , Ochiai Kenji , Otani Kumiko , Okada Keiji , Ito Nobuhiko
Published: July 2019

To study the effect of ionizing radiation on thyroid glands, 66 Japanese Black cattle residing in the restricted area of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant in 2013–2017 were pathologically examined. There were no clinical symptoms of thyroid disease in these cattle. Three cases of goiter and seven of atrophy were found in two among the four farms examined. Cases of goiter exhibited normal morphological structure without mass or nodule formation in thyroid glands. Cellular atypia or capsular invasion of the follicular epithelium was absent. The estimated integrated dose of external radiation in goiter cases ranged from maximum 797 mSv to minimum 24 mSv. All lobules in the seven atrophic thyroid glands were affected, but pathological findings, such as inflammatory cell infiltration or stromal fibrosis, were not observed. The estimated integrated dose of external radiation in atrophic thyroids ranged from maximum 589 mSv to minimum 8 mSv. Immunohistochemical analysis of anti‐nitroguanosine and the TUNEL method in goiter and atrophic thyroid glands did not reveal any positive findings. The present study indicates that there was no significant relationship between a radiation effect and pathological findings in any thyroid glands.
DVM students report higher psychological distress than the Australian public, medical students, junior medical officers and practicing veterinarians
Authors: Yang HH , Ward MP , Fawcett A
Published: July 2019

Aim

To measure the stress levels of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) students at the University of Sydney using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) questionnaire.

Methods

DVM students in years 1 to 4 were surveyed in semester 2 of 2018. The voluntary online survey consisted of 6 demographic questions and the K10 scale, a standardised measure of stress commonly used in Australia by medical practitioners for evaluation and referral to mental health professionals. Academic year cohorts were compared to identify differences in stress levels. Cohorts were compared to published K10 scores from various populations including the Australian public, medical students, practicing veterinarians, and Junior Medical Officers (JMOs).

Results

The response rate was 54.4% (n = 237). DVM students experienced a higher level of psychological distress (mean 24, median 23, range 10‐50) than the Australian population (mean 14.5, median 13, range 10‐50), medical students (mean 18.4, median 16, range 10‐50), practicing veterinarians (mean 16.7, median 15.5, range 10‐30), and JMOs (mean 18.1, median 16, range 10‐50). Female students (median 23) had a significantly higher level of psychological distress compared to male students (median 18) (p = 0.0005). International students (median 23) had a higher level of psychological stress than domestic students (median 22) (p = 0.0488). Different year cohorts, age range, work hours, and exercise were not associated with difference in stress levels.

Conclusion

Based on higher levels of stress in DVM students than that of the general population, practicing veterinarians, JMOs and medical students, there is an urgent need for evidence‐based interventions to target stress in DVM students.
The natural history of untreated muscle‐invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Martini Alberto , Sfakianos John P. , Renström‐Koskela Lotta , Mortezavi Ashkan , Falagario Ugo G. , Egevad Lars , Hosseini Abolfazal , Mehrazin Reza , Galsky Matthew D. , Steineck Gunnar , Wiklund N. Peter
Published: July 2019

Objective

To describe the natural history of untreated muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and compare the oncological outcomes of treated and untreated patients.

Patients and Methods

We utilised a database encompassing all patients with newly diagnosed bladder cancer in Stockholm, Sweden between 1995 and 1996. The median follow‐up for survivors was 14.4 years. Overall, 538 patients were diagnosed with bladder cancer of whom 126 had clinically localised MIBC. Patients were divided into two groups: those who received radical cystectomy or radiation therapy, and those who did not receive any form of treatment. Multivariable Cox or competing‐risks regressions were adopted to predict metastasis, overall survival (OS), and cancer‐specific mortality (CSM), when appropriate. Analyses were adjusted for age at diagnosis, sex, tumour stage, clinical N stage, and treatment.

Results

In all, 64 (51%) patients did not receive any definitive local treatment. In the untreated group, the median (interquartile range) age at diagnosis was 79 (63–83) vs 69 (63–74) years in the treated group (P < 0.001). Overall, 109 patients died during follow‐up. At 6 months after diagnosis, 38% of the untreated patients had developed metastatic disease and 41% had CSM. The 5‐year OS rate for untreated and treated patients was 5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1, 12%) vs 48% (95% CI 36, 60%), respectively. Patients not receiving any treatment had a 5‐year cumulative incidence of CSM of 86% (95% CI 75, 94%) vs 48% (95% CI 36, 60%) for treated patients. Untreated patients had a higher risk of progression to metastatic disease (hazard ratio [HR] 2.40, 95% CI 1.28, 4.51; P = 0.006), death from any cause (HR 2.63, 95% CI 1.65, 4.19; P < 0.001) and CSM (subdistribution HR 2.02, 95% CI 1.24, 3.30; P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Untreated patients with MIBC are at very high risk of near‐term CSM. These findings may help balance the risks vs benefits of integrating curative intent therapy particularly in older patients with MIBC.
A Survey on Visual Traffic Simulation: Models, Evaluations, and Applications in Autonomous Driving
Authors: Chao Qianwen , Bi Huikun , Li Weizi , Mao Tianlu , Wang Zhaoqi , Lin Ming C. , Deng Zhigang
Published: July 2019

Virtualized traffic via various simulation models and real‐world traffic data are promising approaches to reconstruct detailed traffic flows. A variety of applications can benefit from the virtual traffic, including, but not limited to, video games, virtual reality, traffic engineering and autonomous driving. In this survey, we provide a comprehensive review on the state‐of‐the‐art techniques for traffic simulation and animation. We start with a discussion on three classes of traffic simulation models applied at different levels of detail. Then, we introduce various data‐driven animation techniques, including existing data collection methods, and the validation and evaluation of simulated traffic flows. Next, we discuss how traffic simulations can benefit the training and testing of autonomous vehicles. Finally, we discuss the current states of traffic simulation and animation and suggest future research directions.
Application of multiple‐population viability analysis to evaluate species recovery alternatives
Authors: Neville Helen M. , Leasure Douglas R. , Dauwalter Daniel C. , Dunham Jason B. , Bjork Robin , Fesenmyer Kurt A. , Chelgren Nathan D. , Peacock Mary M. , Luce Charles H. , Isaak Daniel J. , Carranza Lee Ann , Sjoberg Jon , Wenger Seth J.
Published: July 2019

Population viability analysis (PVA) is a powerful conservation tool, but it remains impractical for many species, particularly species with multiple, broadly distributed populations for which collecting suitable data can be challenging. A recently developed method of multiple‐population viability analysis (MPVA), however, addresses many limitations of traditional PVA. We built on previous development of MPVA for Lahontan cutthroat trout (LCT) (Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi), a species listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, that is distributed broadly across habitat fragments in the Great Basin (U.S.A.). We simulated potential management scenarios and assessed their effects on population sizes and extinction risks in 211 streams, where LCT exist or may be reintroduced. Conservation populations (those managed for recovery) tended to have lower extinction risks than nonconservation populations (mean = 19.8% vs. 52.7%), but not always. Active management or reprioritization may be warranted in some cases. Eliminating non‐native trout had a strong positive effect on overall carrying capacities for LCT populations but often did not translate into lower extinction risks unless simulations also reduced associated stochasticity (to the mean for populations without non‐native trout). Sixty fish or 5–10 fish/km was the minimum reintroduction number and density, respectively, that provided near‐maximum reintroduction success. This modeling framework provided crucial insights and empirical justification for conservation planning and specific adaptive management actions for this threatened species. More broadly, MPVA is applicable to a wide range of species exhibiting geographic rarity and limited availability of abundance data and greatly extends the potential use of empirical PVA for conservation assessment and planning.
Exploring the internal and external wildlife gradients created by conservation fences
Authors: Moseby Katherine E. , McGregor Hugh , Hill Brydie M. , Read John L.
Published: July 2019

Spillover effects are an expansion of conservation benefits beyond protected areas through dispersal of species that reside within. They have been well documented in marine but not terrestrial systems. To understand the effects on wildlife created by conservation fences, we explored the internal and external gradients of activity in mammal, reptile, and bird species at a conservation reserve in arid Australia that is fenced to exclude invasive rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), cats (Felis catus), and foxes (Vulpes vulpes). Two methods were used: counts of animal tracks along transects on sand dunes and captures at pitfall‐trapping sites. In both cases, sites were spaced at different distances from the reserve fenceline inside and outside the reserve. We recorded a range of spillover, source‐sink, step, and barrier effects that combined to create a zone within and around the reserve with fence‐induced species‐specific wildlife gradients. Two endemic rodents but none of the 4 mammal species reintroduced to the reserve showed positive spillover effects. Barrier effects, where activity was highest close to the fence, were recorded for the feral cat and native bettong (Bettongia lesueur), species that could not breach the fence. In comparison, some reptiles and native mammal species that could permeate the fence displayed source‐sink effects; that is, their activity levels were reduced close to the fence likely due to constant emigration to the side with lower density. Activity of some reptiles was lowest at sites inside the reserve and gradually increased at outside sites with distance from the fence, a gradient likely related to trophic cascades triggered by predator exclusion. Our result shows that fenced reserves can create overlapping layers of species‐specific gradients related to each species’ ability to permeate the fence and its varying susceptibility to threats. Managers should be aware that these gradients may extend for several kilometers either side of the fence and that not all contained species will increase in abundance. Creating wider conservation benefits may require increased fence permeability and threat reduction outside the fence.
Mechanical circulatory support for cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Kittleson Michelle M. , Cole Robert M. , Patel Jignesh , Ramzy Danny , Passano Elizabeth , Chang David H. , Geft Dael R. , Czer Lawrence , Vescio Robert , Chung Joshua , Kobashigawa Jon A. , Arabia Francisco , Esmailian Fardad , Moriguchi Jaime D.
Published: July 2019

Background

Cardiac amyloidosis, typically from abnormal deposition of AL or ATTR amyloid protein, can result in heart failure requiring transplantation (HTx). The role of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) is not well‐established. The purpose of this study was to present our experience with MCS in patients with cardiac amyloidosis.

Methods

Consecutive patients with cardiac amyloidosis who received MCS at Cedars‐Sinai Medical Center between 2010 and 2018 were reviewed. Clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared to a control group of MCS patients without amyloid matched 2:1 for age and INTERMACS Profile.

Results

11 amyloid patients underwent durable MCS, two with paracorporeal biventricular assist devices and 9 with total artificial hearts. No patients received isolated left ventricular assist device support. By 1 year, 9 (82%) of patients in the MCS‐Amyloid group had been transplanted and 2 (18%) had died. In the MCS‐No Amyloid group, by 1 year, 8 (36%) of patients had been transplanted, 10 (46%) had died, and 4 (18%) were still living with MCS.

Conclusions

Over a 9‐year period, patients with amyloid cardiomyopathy who required MCS at our institution all received durable biventricular MCS. For carefully selected patients, this approach is feasible with acceptable outcomes as bridge to transplantation.
Assessment and prevention of cytomegalovirus infection in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant and in solid organ transplant: A multidisciplinary consensus conference by the Italian GITMO, SITO, and AMCLI societies
Authors: Girmenia Corrado , Lazzarotto Tiziana , Bonifazi Francesca , Patriarca Francesca , Irrera Giuseppe , Ciceri Fabio , Aversa Franco , Citterio Franco , Cillo Umberto , Cozzi Emanuele , Gringeri Enrico , Baldanti Fausto , Cavallo Rossana , Clerici Pierangelo , Barosi Giovanni , Grossi Paolo
Published: July 2019

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) and solid organ transplantation (SOT) recipients. In view of the uncertainties on the assessment and prevention of CMV infection in both transplant procedures, three Italian scientific societies for HSCT and SOT and for Clinical Microbiology appointed a panel of experts to compose a framework of recommendations. Recommendations were derived from a comprehensive analysis of the scientific literature and from a multidisciplinary consensus conference process. The lack of adequate clinical trials focused on certain diagnostic procedures, and antiviral intervention forced the panel to use the methods of consensus for shaping some recommendations. Recommendations concerning the two types of transplant were given for the following issues: assessment of pretransplant CMV serostatus, immunological monitoring after transplant, CMV prophylaxis with antivirals, CMV preemptive strategy, and CMV prophylaxis with immunoglobulin infusion and with adoptive immunotherapy. The questions raised by and the recommendations resulting from this consensus conference project may contribute to the improvement of certain crucial aspects of the management of CMV infections in allo‐HSCT and in SOT populations.
Validity of endoscopic features for the diagnosis ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection status based on the Kyoto classification of gastritis
Authors: Yoshii Shinji , Mabe Katsuhiro , Watano Keiko , Ohno Masayoshi , Matsumoto Mio , Ono Shoko , Kudo Takahiko , Nojima Masanori , Kato Mototsugu , Sakamoto Naoya
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Evaluation ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection status (non‐infection, past infection, current infection) has become important. This study aimed to determine the usefulness of the Kyoto classification of gastritis for diagnosingH. pyloriinfection status by endoscopy.

Methods

In this prospective study, 498 subjects were recruited. Seven well‐experienced endoscopists blinded to the history of eradication therapy performed the examinations. Endoscopic findings were assessed according to the Kyoto classification of gastritis: diffuse redness, regular arrangement of collecting venules (RAC), fundic gland polyp (FGP), atrophy, xanthoma, hyperplastic polyp, map‐like redness, intestinal metaplasia, nodularity, mucosal swelling, white and flat elevated lesion, sticky mucus, depressive erosion, raised erosion, red streak, and enlarged folds. We established prediction models according to a machine learning procedure and compared them with general assessment by endoscopists using the Kyoto classification of gastritis.

Results

Significantly higher diagnostic odds were obtained forRAC(32.2),FGP(7.7), and red streak (4.7) in subjects with non‐infection, map‐like redness (12.9) in subjects with past infection, and diffuse redness (26.8), mucosal swelling (13.3), sticky mucus (10.2) and enlarged fold (8.6) in subjects with current infection. The overall diagnostic accuracy rate was 82.9% with the Kyoto classification of gastritis. The diagnostic accuracy of the prediction model was 88.6% for the model withoutH. pylorieradication history and 93.4% for the model with eradication history.

Conclusions

The Kyoto classification of gastritis is useful for diagnosingH. pyloriinfection status based on endoscopic findings. Our prediction model is helpful for novice endoscopists. (UMIN000016674).
Drosophila carboxypeptidase D (SILVER) is a key enzyme in neuropeptide processing required to maintain locomotor activity levels and survival rate
Authors: Pauls Dennis , Hamarat Yasin , Trufasu Luisa , Schendzielorz Tim M. , Gramlich Gertrud , Kahnt Jörg , Vanselow Jens T. , Schlosser Andreas , Wegener Christian
Published: July 2019

Neuropeptides are processed from larger preproproteins by a dedicated set of enzymes. The molecular and biochemical mechanisms underlying preproprotein processing and the functional importance of processing enzymes are well‐characterised in mammals, but little studied outside this group. In contrast to mammals, Drosophila melanogaster lacks a gene for carboxypeptidase E (CPE), a key enzyme for mammalian peptide processing. By combining peptidomics and neurogenetics, we addressed the role of carboxypeptidase D (dCPD) in global neuropeptide processing and selected peptide‐regulated behaviours in Drosophila. We found that a deficiency in dCPD results in C‐terminally extended peptides across the peptidome, suggesting that dCPD took over CPE function in the fruit fly. dCPD is widely expressed throughout the nervous system, including peptidergic neurons in the mushroom body and neuroendocrine cells expressing adipokinetic hormone. Conditional hypomorphic mutation in the dCPD‐encoding gene silver in the larva causes lethality, and leads to deficits in starvation‐induced hyperactivity and appetitive gustatory preference, as well as to reduced viability and activity levels in adults. A phylogenomic analysis suggests that loss of CPE is not common to insects, but only occurred in Hymenoptera and Diptera. Our results show that dCPD is a key enzyme for neuropeptide processing and peptide‐regulated behaviour in Drosophila. dCPD thus appears as a suitable target to genetically shut down total neuropeptide production in peptidergic neurons. The persistent occurrence of CPD in insect genomes may point to important further CPD functions beyond neuropeptide processing which cannot be fulfilled by CPE.
Ranking manufacturing processes from the quality management perspective in the automotive industry
Authors: Nestic Snezana , Lampón Jesús F. , Aleksic Aleksandar , Cabanelas Pablo , Tadic Danijela
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study is to propose a fuzzy decision‐making model to rank manufacturing processes from the quality management perspective in the automotive industry. This paper proposes a model for improving quality management through the assessment and ranking of manufacturing subprocesses with respect to key performance indicators (KPIs). The developed model, supported with the fuzzy extended ELECTRE III, allows for the determination of subprocesses' rank. An illustrative example indicates that the proposed model could be very useful in everyday business operations as total quality management asset. The model can handle all uncertain and vague input data by applying the theory of fuzzy sets. The research also suggests different managerial implications because it provides an adequate tool for overall quality improvement. The number of treated KPIs is relatively high, so ELECTRE III method gives an advantage over other multicriteria analysis methods because it embraces less subjective thinking and demands slightly less experts' knowledge during the process of decision making and assessment.
Modeling the impact of liana infestation on the demography and carbon cycle of tropical forests
Authors: di Porcia e Brugnera Manfredo , Meunier Félicien , Longo Marcos , Krishna Moorthy Sruthi M. , De Deurwaerder Hannes , Schnitzer Stefan A. , Bonal Damien , Faybishenko Boris , Verbeeck Hans
Published: July 2019

There is mounting empirical evidence that lianas affect the carbon cycle of tropical forests. However, no single vegetation model takes into account this growth form, although such efforts could greatly improve the predictions of carbon dynamics in tropical forests. In this study, we incorporated a novel mechanistic representation of lianas in a dynamic global vegetation model (the Ecosystem Demography Model). We developed a liana‐specific plant functional type and mechanisms representing liana–tree interactions (such as light competition, liana‐specific allometries, and attachment to host trees) and parameterized them according to a comprehensive literature meta‐analysis. We tested the model for an old‐growth forest (Paracou, French Guiana) and a secondary forest (Gigante Peninsula, Panama). The resulting model simulations captured many features of the two forests characterized by different levels of liana infestation as revealed by a systematic comparison of the model outputs with empirical data, including local census data from forest inventories, eddy flux tower data, and terrestrial laser scanner‐derived forest vertical structure. The inclusion of lianas in the simulations reduced the secondary forest net productivity by up to 0.46 tC ha−1 year−1, which corresponds to a limited relative reduction of 2.6% in comparison with a reference simulation without lianas. However, this resulted in significantly reduced accumulated above‐ground biomass after 70 years of regrowth by up to 20 tC/ha (19% of the reference simulation). Ultimately, the simulated negative impact of lianas on the total biomass was almost completely cancelled out when the forest reached an old‐growth successional stage. Our findings suggest that lianas negatively influence the forest potential carbon sink strength, especially for young, disturbed, liana‐rich sites. In light of the critical role that lianas play in the profound changes currently experienced by tropical forests, this new model provides a robust numerical tool to forecast the impact of lianas on tropical forest carbon sinks.
Similarities and differences in health‐related behavior clustering among older adults in Eastern and Western countries: A latent class analysis of global aging cohorts
Authors: Liao Jing , Mawditt Claire , Scholes Shaun , Lu Wentian , Umeda Maki , Muniz Terrera Graciela , Hao Yuantao , Mejía Shannon
Published: July 2019

Aim

To quantify variations in health‐related behaviors (HRB) clustering of older adults in Western and Eastern countries.

Methods

Using six aging cohorts from the USA, England, Europe, Japan, Korea and China, latent class analysis was applied to access the clustering of smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity and social activity.

Results

A total of 104 552 participants (55% women) aged ≥50 years in 2010 were included. Despite a different number of clusters identified, three consistent cluster profiles emerged: “Multiple‐HRB” (ex‐/never smoking, moderate drinking, frequent physical and social activity); “Inactives” (socially and physically inactive without other risk behaviors); and “(ex‐)Smokers with Risk Behaviors”. Sex and cohort variations were shown. For men in Western cohorts, “Multiple‐HRB” was the predominant cluster, whereas their Asian counterparts were more likely to be members of the “Smokers with risk behavior” and “Inactives” clusters. Most women, particularly those in Asian cohorts, were never smokers and non‐drinkers, and most of them belonged to the socially “Inactives” cluster.

Conclusions

We provide a person‐centered understanding of HRB clustering of older adults over selected countries by sex, informing tailored health promotion for the target population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19: 930–937.
When top‐down meets bottom‐up: Local adoption of social policy reform in China
Authors: Huang Xian , Kim Sung Eun
Published: July 2019

Authoritarian local leaders face two driving forces in social policymaking: top‐down pressure from the regime and bottom‐up motivations derived from local conditions. Existing studies recognize the importance of both forces, but remain unclear as to how they interact and which of them is more influential in driving local policy adoption. Focusing on two health insurance integration policies in China, we find that when the policy entails substantial class or distributive conflicts and bureaucratic friction, top‐down pressure for compliance is a dominant driver for local policy adoption; when the policy does not entail such conflicts or bureaucratic infighting, bottom‐up motivations based on local economic geography together with top‐down pressure drive local adoption. We find support for this argument from an analysis of an original city‐level data set in China from 2004 to 2016. This study has implications for social policy reform, decentralization, and government responsiveness in authoritarian countries with multilevel governance.
Tongue coating in relationship to gender, plaque, gingivitis and tongue cleaning behaviour in systemically healthy young adults
Authors: Van Gils Laura M. , Slot Dagmar E. , Van der Sluijs Eveline , Hennequin‐Hoenderdos Nienke L. , Van der Weijden Fridus (GA)
Published: July 2019

Objectives

The purpose of this observational study was to investigate the relationship between tongue coating (thickness [Tc] and surface discoloration [Td]) and gender, plaque, gingivitis (bleeding on marginal probing [BOMP] and bleeding on pocket probing [BOPP]) and tongue cleaning behaviour.

Materials and Methods

A total of 336 participants were screened for this cross‐sectional study, from which 268 (150 male, 118 female) were found to be eligible. Aspects of tongue coating were visually assessed. Additionally, BOMP, BOPP and the plaque index (PI) were scored. To ascertain the tongue cleaning behaviour, the Oral Hygiene Behavior questionnaire was used.

Results

Most tongue coating was found at the posterior sections of the tongue surface. A thin coating and white discoloration were most prevalent as highest score for both males (92.7%) and females (87.4%), as well as white discoloration for the whole group of participants (50.2%). A gender difference was observed for TC and Td (P < .001). Analysis did not reveal a relationship between Tc and PI and between Td and PI. Also, no relation was detected between tongue cleaning behaviour and Tc or Td. However, tongue cleaning was associated with lower BOMP and BOPP scores.

Conclusion

BOMP, BOPP or PI score did not appear to be linked to Tc and Td. A significant gender difference was found for Tc and Td. Self‐reported tongue cleaning behaviour was associated with slightly lower BOMP and BOPP scores.
Combined application of electrolysed water and ultrasound to improve the sanitation of knives in the meat industry
Authors: Brasil Carla C. B. , de Menezes Cristiano R. , Jacob‐Lopes Eduardo , Barin Juliano Smanioto , Zepka Leila Queiroz , Campagnol Paulo Cezar Bastianello , Wagner Roger , Cichoski Alexandre José
Published: July 2019

This study investigated the effect of the combination of basic electrolysed water (BEW) and slightly acid electrolysed water (SAEW) with ultrasound (US) for cleaning and sanitation of the knives used in slaughtering processes. The knives were sonicated in a US bath using two modes of operation (normal and sweep) in two steps: (i) 5 min with BEW and (ii) 10 min with SAEW at 35 °C. The microbiological counts and the possible changes in the physical structure of the knives were evaluated. The association BEW + SAEW + US, in the sweep mode, provided lower mesophilic, enterobacterial, Staphylococcus aureus and yeast counts when compared to the values recommended by the international legislation. In addition, these conditions removed all organic residues from the knife blades and promoted the highest migration rate of the residues to the US water bath (12.35 mg/L·min), without modifications in the knife blades. Thus, cleaning and sanitation of knives was feasible with the association of BEW + SAEW + US, which could be a useful alternative for the meat industry.
Initial experience of a community‐based prostate cancer risk assessment clinic for men of black and minority ethnicity background
Authors: McAllister Bria J. , Patterson Marva I. , Sherwood Benedict T. , Howarth Jodie A. , Malone Kerry J.
Published: July 2019

We designed and implemented a community‐based prostate cancer risk assessment clinic targeting men from black and minority ethnicity (BME) background. This service had the dual aims of optimizing detection of prostate cancer within a local BME population, with a secondary goal of encouraging longer‐term engagement with primary care for follow‐up prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) testing in order to facilitate early diagnosis of future disease. “Drop‐in” clinics were set up in strategic locations and, staffed by experienced urology nurses. Risk assessment was offered in the form of a PSA test, and digital rectal examination (DRE). We targeted men of BME background aged between 45 and 75 but all attending individuals were given access to counselling and assessment as appropriate. In total, 312 men attended clinics for risk assessment. We diagnosed nine prostate cancers with histological confirmation, with a further two individuals considered to have prostate cancer based on clinical/biochemical parameters. These findings were consistent with similar previously published reports. Nurse‐led, community‐based targeted risk assessment is feasible, leads to the detection of significant numbers of prostate cancers and is well received by patients.
What factors determine dividend smoothing by US and EU banks?
Authors: Koussis Nicos , Makrominas Michalis
Published: July 2019

Using a relatively large sample of European and US banks for the period 1998–2016, we investigate the determinants of bank dividend smoothing based on agency, asymmetric information and risk‐shifting theories. We show that dividend payout ratio smoothing practices were implemented on both continents before and after the crisis of 2007 and were more strongly pronounced for EU banks. Our findings mostly support agency‐based explanations of bank dividend behavior as evidenced by higher payout ratio smoothing for banks with higher (initial) dividend payouts, lower ownership concentration, public banks, and banks with lower growth opportunities and weaker investor protection. Evidence in favor of asymmetric information explanations is stronger for EU countries, where smaller (more opaque) banks appear to smooth more. In both continents, banks that rely more heavily on equity issuances are found to smooth dividend payout ratios more, suggesting that banks aim at improving access to equity markets. We also provide evidence in support of risk‐shifting, as evidenced by the persistence of dividend payout ratio smoothing in the crisis years and higher dividend smoothing for banks under greater regulatory pressure. Additional analysis using a time series partial adjustment model for dividend levels provides evidence supporting the prevalence of dividend smoothing and the suggested theoretical explanations.
Virtual behaviors affecting adolescent mental health: The usage of Internet and mobile phone and cyberbullying
Authors: Calpbinici Pelin , Tas Arslan Fatma
Published: July 2019

Problem

An important environmental factor affecting adolescents today is undoubtedly technological tools. This descriptive and cross‐sectional study was conducted to evaluate the relationship of adolescents’ Internet and mobile phone usage, cyberbullying behaviors, and their self‐reported mental health.

Methods

The sample of the study consisted of a total of 426 students including 215 male students and 211 female students. A questionnaire was prepared by the researcher to determine the sociodemographic and personal characteristics and virtual behavioral characteristics of individuals. The Brief Symptom Inventory was used to determine the participants’ mental status.

Findings

It was found that adolescents’ daily Internet usage duration, Internet usage purpose, the place where they use Internet, cyberbullying, and exposure to cyberbullying were related to the adolescents’ self‐reported mental health (p < .05).

Conclusion

Several aspects of the virtual behaviors of the adolescents were associated with their sense of mental health issues. In this context, the school health nurse should raise awareness among adolescents about the use of technology and how it might impact their mental wellbeing.
His bundle pacing, learning curve, procedure characteristics, safety, and feasibility: Insights from a large international observational study
Authors: Keene Daniel , Arnold Ahran D , Jastrzębski Marek , Burri Haran , Zweibel Steven , Crespo Eric , Chandrasekaran Badrinathan , Bassi Sukhbinder , Joghetaei Nader , Swift Matthew , Moskal Pawel , Francis Darrel P , Foley Paul , Shun‐Shin Matthew J , Whinnett Zachary I
Published: July 2019

Background

His‐bundle pacing (HBP) provides physiological ventricular activation. Observational studies have demonstrated the techniques’ feasibility; however, data have come from a limited number of centers.

Objectives

We set out to explore the contemporary global practice in HBP focusing on the learning curve, procedural characteristics, and outcomes.

Methods

This is a retrospective, multicenter observational study of patients undergoing attempted HBP at seven centers. Pacing indication, fluoroscopy time, HBP thresholds, and lead reintervention and deactivation rates were recorded. Where centers had systematically recorded implant success rates from the outset, these were collated.

Results

A total of 529 patients underwent attempted HBP during the study period (2014‐19) with a mean follow‐up of 217 ± 303 days. Most implants were for bradycardia indications.

In the three centers with the systematic collation of all attempts, the overall implant success rate was 81%, which improved to 87% after completion of 40 cases.

All seven centers reported data on successful implants. The mean fluoroscopy time was 11.7 ± 12.0 minutes, the His‐bundle capture threshold at implant was 1.4 ± 0.9 V at 0.8 ± 0.3 ms, and it was 1.3 ± 1.2 V at 0.9 ± 0.2 ms at last device check.

HBP lead reintervention or deactivation (for lead displacement or rise in threshold) occurred in 7.5% of successful implants.

There was evidence of a learning curve: fluoroscopy time and HBP capture threshold reduced with greater experience, plateauing after approximately 30‐50 cases.

Conclusion

We found that it is feasible to establish a successful HBP program, using the currently available implantation tools. For physicians who are experienced at pacemaker implantation, the steepest part of the learning curve appears to be over the first 30‐50 cases.