bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence for the anti-inflammatory activity of Bupleurum marginatum (Apiaceae) extracts using in vitro and in vivo experiments supported by virtual screening
Authors: Ashour Mohamed L , Youssef Fadia S , Gad Haidy A , El-Readi Mahmoud Z , Bouzabata Amel , Abuzeid Riham M , Sobeh Mansour , Wink Michael
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To explore the potential anti-inflammatory activity of Bupleurum marginatum extracts using in vitro and in vivo studies supported by virtual screening.

Methods

Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH˙ and inhibition of 2-deoxyribose degradation assays. Anti-inflammatory activity was determined in vitro by measuring the suppression of prostaglandin E2 release (PGE2) in pancreatic cancer cells (MIA-PaCa-2) and the inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase whereas the rat paw oedema was used in vivo. The major constituents were docked in 5-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase-II active sites.

Key findings

Methanol and dichloromethane (DCM) extracts showed IC50 of 46.99 and 162.99 μg/ml in the DPPH˙, 1.52 and 2.12 μg/ml in inhibition of 2-deoxyribose degradation assays, respectively. They reduced PGE2 release by 41.33 and 52.85% at 25 μg/ml and inhibited 5-lipoxygenase with IC50 of 45.28 and 25.92 μg/ml, respectively. 50 and 70% reduction in the diameter of the carrageenan-induced rat paws with methanol and DCM extracts, respectively, with a marked decline in the inflammation score was observed. Rutin, a predominating compound, showed a strong interaction with the key amino acids in 5-LOX active site with interaction energy of −74.59 kcal/mol.

Conclusions

Our study provides evidence for an interesting anti-inflammatory activity of B. marginatum aerial parts offering a natural anti-inflammatory agent.
Projectile preservation during oblique hypervelocity impacts
Authors: Daly Ronald T. , Schultz Peter H.
Published: April 2018

Impact angle plays a significant role in determining the fate of the projectile. In this study, we use a suite of hypervelocity impact experiments to reveal how impact angle affects the preservation, distribution, and physical state of projectile residues in impact craters. Diverse types of projectiles, including amorphous silicates, crystalline silicates, and aluminum, in two sizes (6.35 and 12.7 mm), were launched into blocks of copper or 6061 aluminum at speeds between 1.9 and 5.7 km s−1. Crater interiors preserve projectile residues in all cases, including conditions relevant to the asteroid belt. These residues consist of projectile fragments or projectile‐rich glasses, depending on impact conditions. During oblique impacts at 30° and 45°, the uprange crater wall preserves crystalline fragments of the projectile. The fragments of water‐rich projectiles such as antigorite remain hydrated. Several factors contribute to enhanced preservation on the uprange wall, including a weaker shock uprange, uprange acceleration as the shock reflects off the back of the projectile, and rapid quenching of melts along the projectile–target interface. These findings have two broader implications. First, the results suggest a new collection strategy for flyby sample return missions. Second, these results predict that the M‐type asteroid Psyche should bear exogenic, impactor‐derived debris.
Isavuconazole for treatment of rare invasive fungal diseases
Authors: Cornely Oliver A. , Mullane Kathleen M. , Ostrosky‐Zeichner Luis , Maher Rochelle M. , Croos‐Dabrera Rodney , Lu Qiaoyang , Lademacher Christopher , Perfect John R. , Oren Ilana , Schmitt‐Hoffmann Anne‐Hortense , Giladi Michael , Marty Francisco M. , Rahav Galia
Published: April 2018

Data regarding treatment of rare invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) are scarce. We documented the efficacy and safety of isavuconazole for treatment of uncommonly diagnosed IFDs. VITAL was a single‐arm, international, open‐label study evaluating the efficacy and safety of isavuconazole (200 mg orally or intravenously every 8 hours for 48 hours, then once daily). The primary outcome was overall response at Day 42; key secondary outcomes were overall responses at Day 84 and end of treatment (EOT), mortality at Days 42 and 84, and safety. This analysis includes patients with IFD caused by rare or unidentified pathogens. Twenty‐six patients with IFDs caused by rare moulds (n = 17), non‐Candida yeasts (n = 2), or unidentified moulds (n = 7) were enrolled (median treatment duration [range], 114.5 [1‐496]) days. Overall treatment success was observed in 11/26 (42.3%), 10/26 (38.5%), and 15/26 (57.7%) patients at Days 42, 84, and EOT, respectively. All‐cause mortality rates were 2/26 patients (7.7%) at Day 42 and 4/26 patients (15.4%) at Day 84; another two patients died after Day 84. All patients had ≥1 treatment‐emergent adverse event (TEAE); 15 patients (57.7%) had serious TEAEs, and TEAEs led to discontinuation of isavuconazole in four patients (15.4%). Isavuconazole may be efficacious for treatment of a range of rare IFDs.
Determination of leaf respiration in the light: comparison between an isotopic disequilibrium method and the Laisk method
Authors: Gong Xiao Ying , Tcherkez Guillaume , Wenig Johannes , Schäufele Rudi , Schnyder Hans
Published: April 2018

Quantification of leaf respiration is important for understanding plant physiology and ecosystem biogeochemical processes. Leaf respiration continues in the light (RL) but supposedly at a lower rate than in the dark (RDk). However, there is no method for direct measurement of RL and the available methods require nonphysiological measurement conditions.

A method based on isotopic disequilibrium quantified RL (RL 13C) and mesophyll conductance of young and old fully expanded leaves of six species. RL 13C was compared to RL determined by the Laisk method (RL Laisk) on the very same leaves with a minimum time lag.

RL 13C and RL Laisk were generally lower than RDk, and were not significantly affected by leaf ageing. RL Laisk and RL 13C were positively correlated (r2 = 0.35), and both were positively correlated with RDk (r2 ≥ 0.6). RL Laisk was systematically lower than RL 13C by 0.4 μmol m−2 s−1. Using A/Cc instead of A/Ci curves, a higher photocompensation point Γ* (by 5 μmol mol−1) was found but no influence on RL Laisk estimates was observed.

The results imply that the Laisk method underestimates actual RL significantly, probably related to the measurement condition of low CO2 and irradiance. The isotopic disequilibrium method is useful for assessing responses of RL to irradiance and CO2, improving our mechanistic understanding of RL.
Is Political Conservatism Adaptive? Reinterpreting Right‐Wing Authoritarianism and Social Dominance Orientation as Evolved, Sociofunctional Strategies
Authors: Sinn Jeffrey S. , Hayes Matthew W.
Published: April 2018

The Dual Process Model (DPM) explains prejudice and political conservatism as functions of Right‐Wing Authoritarianism (RWA) and a Social Dominance Orientation (SDO; Duckitt, 2001). From an evolutionary perspective, such orientations may represent specific adaptations to coalitional competition in the ancestral environment (Sinn & Hayes, 2016). Supporting this view, recent research suggests the two orientations represent divergent strategies, with RWA pursuing an honest‐cooperator strategy and SDO a deceptive, cooperation‐mimicking strategy (Heylen & Pauwels, 2015). In two studies, we examine additional evidence for an adaptationist interpretation of DPM. Utilizing life history theory, Study 1 finds that RWA reflects the predicted “slow” strategy by endorsing planning and control, investment in family relationships, altruism, and religiosity. In contrast, SDO reflects a “fast” strategy by devaluing planning and control, secure relationships, and altruism. Utilizing rank management theory, Study 2 finds that RWA reflects a prosocial orientation, endorsing coalition building and social networking while rejecting deception and manipulation. In contrast, SDO reflects an exploitive orientation, rejecting coalition building and networking but endorsing ruthless self‐advancement and deceptive tactics. These findings support an adaptationist revision of RWA to recognize its prosocial, honest‐cooperator dimension and of SDO to recognize proself, “dark” tactics seeking power within groups.
STUDY ON PERFORMANCE OF HYBRID CELL OF DSSC AND PIEZOELECTRIC IN ONE ACTIVE AREA of AZO NANOFIBER SEMICONDUCTOR
Authors: Hadi Syamsul , Yusuf Mirza , Kristiawan Budi , Wibowo Atmanto Heru , Suyitno Suyitno
Published: April 2018

This study aims to explore the possibilities of hybrid cells to convert photon and mechanical energies in a semiconductor area. A device with a hybrid ability was successfully fabricated from AZO (Al doped ZnO) semiconductor nanofibre-based materials by an electrospinning method. The N-719 dye was used to synthesize the semiconductors. The hybrid cell of DSSC and piezoelectric use flowrates of precursor as a measurement parameter on the electrospinning machine which differences of nanofiber diameters were formed on the collector. Furthermore, aluminum as doping material was also applied to ZnO in order to reduce the size of the fibers. When the hybrid cell worked as solar cells based on AZO, an open circuit voltage was produced in the range of 0.421 to 0.507 V. In greater flow of precursors condition, Voc of DSSC will be slightly decreased. On the AZO-based DSSC, the highest Jsc was 1,147 mA/cm2. When the cell worked as a power nano generator, Voc and highest output power of AZO-based cells were 119 mV and 24,8 nW repectively on the flow rate of 2 mL/min.
ENHANCING TEXTILE DYE REMOVAL IN EMULSION LIQUID MEMBRANE SYSTEM USING TAYLOR COUETTE COLUMN
Authors: Kusumastuti Adhi , Ahmad A. L. , Syamwil Rodia , Anis Samsudin
Published: April 2018

Although textile dyes is basically available in very low concentration (10-200 ppm); it should be removed due to the toxicity to human body and environment. Among the existing methods, emulsion liquid membrane (ELM) is a promising method by providing high interfacial area and the ability to remove a very low concentration of the solute. The optimal emulsions were produced using commercially supplied homogeniser. Initially, methylene blue in simulated wastewater was extracted using a Taylor-Couette column. Methylene blue concentration was determined using spectrophotometer. Complete extraction was performed in the designed column. The research obtained optimal extraction efficiency of about 99% at external phase pH of 10, carrier concentration of 9 wt. %, HCl concentration of 0.5 M, initial feed concentration of 20 ppm, volume ratio of emulsion to feed phase of 1:5, extraction time of 5 min, and extraction speed of 600 rpm.
ESTIMATION OF HYDROLOGICAL CHANGES IN A TROPICAL WATERSHED USING MULTI-TEMPORAL LAND-USE AND DYNAMIC MODELLING
Authors: Bello Al-Amin Danladi , Haniffah Mohd Ridza Mohd , Hashim Noor Baharim , Anuar Khairul Mohammad
Published: April 2018

The response of a watershed due to changes in its physical environment might result in floods, river erosions and siltations, subsequently affecting humans and biotas. Evaluating land-use changes is crucial for better assessment of hydrological conditions in a watershed system. The remote sensing imagery, field data collection, and land change modelling were used to produce the land-use maps of different spatiotemporal scale from 1989 to 2039. The generated maps are integrated into Hydrological Simulation Program-Fortran (HSPF) model, to evaluate the hydrological changes in Skudai River watershed in Malaysia. Total runoff is expected to account for 57% of the rainfall influx by 2039, a change of 2% from 1989 land-use, an indication of the low response of runoff to change in land-use. As built-up land increase by 3.39 %, the average streamflow will increase by 0.05 m3/s. It will further reduce actual evapotranspiration (AET) by 0.39%, groundwater by 0.34% and change in storage by 0.38%. The sensitivity analysis of the hydrological elements to the land-use changes indicates that AET being the most sensitive then change in storage, and total runoff showing the lowest sensitivity. The result of the study provides information on the long-term impact of land-use on the hydrology of the tropical watershed, and it can be a useful tool in the planning and management of a watershed in a different perspective.
FLOOD RISK ASSESSMENT: A REVIEW OF FLOOD DAMAGE ESTIMATION MODEL FOR MALAYSIA
Authors: Romali Noor Suraya , Yusop Zulkifli , Sulaiman Muhammad , Ismail Zulhilmi
Published: April 2018

Flood damage assessment is important in flood risk management for the assessment of flood vulnerability, development of flood risk map and flood management financial appraisal. In Malaysia, there is a lack of studies on flood damages estimation. In addition, the needed data for the assessment of flood damages is scarce. This review identified the approaches and problems in flood damage assessment. For Malaysia, the combination of four elements namely; flood characteristics (flood depth and flood duration), characteristic of exposed elements, value of exposed element and flood damage function curve are recommended. The scarcity of data for developing flood damage curve could partly be overcome by applying synthetic method to generate additional data from the existing flood damage data.
DESIGN AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL EVALUATION OF NANOSTRUCTURED LIPID CARRIER ENCAPSULATED ZINGIBER ZERUMBET OIL BY D-OPTIMAL MIXTURE DESIGN
Authors: Rosli Nur Ayshah , Hasham Rosnani , Abdul Aziz Azila
Published: April 2018

The D-optimal mixture design was employed to evaluate the effect of different composition variables on particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential and encapsulation efficiency for optimization of Zingiber zerumbet oil loaded nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC). The glyceryl monostearate were used as solid lipid, virgin coconut oil as liquid lipid, and Tween 80 as well as soy lecithin were used as surfactant to achieve stable NLC formulation. The hot homogenization and ultrasonication techniques were employed in preparation of NLC. The statistical evaluations by ANOVA revealed that optimum NLC formulation generated as 3.7% Zingiber zerumbet oil, 5% liquid lipid and 1.3% solid lipid. The optimal NLC formulation had an average diameter of 91.002 nm, PDI of 0.172, zeta-potential of -40.88 mV, and encapsulation efficiency of 94.45%. The transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations exhibited spherical morphology of Zingiber zerumbet oil loaded NLC. Penetration through Strat-M® membrane shown an excellent diffusion coefficient of NLC-Zingiber zerumbet oil. Therefore, D-optimal mixture design has succeeded in generating optimum NLC formulation for encapsulation of Zingiber zerumbet oil. The stable formulation of NLC for encapsulating essential oil give promising future in various applications such as drug delivery, food, textile and cosmetics.
Generalization in Sports: The Impact of How Athletes Process Their Failures and Successes
Authors: Van Lier Jens , Raes Filip
Published: April 2018

The way athletes prospect future success or failure following a single success or failure is called “generalization”. This study examined the roles of an abstract “why” vs. a concrete “how” processing style on athletes’ generalization to future performances and to their self-concept (N = 668). We hypothesized that athletes in the “why” condition would show more negative/positive generalization. We also explored the impact of how individuals in the “why” condition attributed their success or failure performance. There was no main difference between processing styles but athletes with more functional attributions showed more positive generalization and athletes with more dysfunctional attributions showed more negative generalization. These results show that attributions could be driving the effects of an abstract “why” processing style on generalization. For athletes with an elevated depression score it might be particularly important to focus on generalizations following success and train these athletes to make functional attributions.
Classification and Intellectual Disabilities: An Investigation of the Factors That Predict the Performance of Athletes With Intellectual Disability
Authors: Gilderthorp Rosanna , Burns Jan , Jones Fergal
Published: April 2018

It has been shown that having intellectual disabilities impacts to reduce performance compared to athletes without this impairment. However, it has also been demonstrated that there is a not a direct link between intelligence and athletic performance. To advance elite ID sport more needs to be understood about the relationship between this impairment and sporting performance. This is vital if competition classification systems are to be based on theory and evidence. This study used the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) as an approach to classification and examined the impact of multiple health problems on athletic performance. A health survey was administered to two groups of athletes with ID: elite and regional level athletes. Athletes with Down Syndrome were also identified. Overall disability scores predicted sporting performance, but not IQ or Down Syndrome. The implications of these findings are discussed with reference to the ICF framework and classification.
Life on an Emotional Roller Coaster: NFL Players and Their Family Members’ Perspectives on Player Mental Health
Authors: McGraw Sarah A. , Deubert Christopher R. , Lynch Holly Fernandez , Nozzolillo Alixandra , Taylor Lauren , Cohen I. Glenn
Published: April 2018

This qualitative study examined how NFL players and their family members characterized the impact of an NFL career on the mental and emotional health of NFL players. We interviewed 25 NFL players (23 former and 2 current) and 27 family members (24 wives and 3 others) to elicit players’ experiences during and following their time in the NFL. While players experienced positive outcomes from their careers, they also described important mental health challenges including feelings of depression, loneliness, and stress. Many of their concerns during their careers were linked to anxiety about job performance and job security. Post-career concerns were linked to loss of social identity and connections. Players had difficulty finding help for their concerns. We conclude with eight recommendations, including improved resources, confidentiality, and support.
“You Challenge Yourself and You’re not Afraid of Anything!” Women’s Narratives of Running in Shanghai
Authors: Ronkainen Noora J. , Shuman Amanda , Xu Lin
Published: April 2018

Distance running is a rapidly growing leisure practice among urban Chinese adults. This study explores female runners’ experiences in Shanghai through life story interviews with 14 female runners. We analyzed their stories for cultural narrative resources and gendered life scripts used in the construction of running identities and practices. Although all interviewees constructed running within narratives of health, ideal body and achievement, women also storied running as a liberating and autonomy-boosting activity. Yet, despite their privileged status as educated urban citizens, they had to negotiate essentialist gender discourses and initially lacked self-confidence in sports. They constructed their achievements as exceptional, rather than as something that all Chinese women could do.
Multidimensional quantum entanglement with large-scale integrated optics
Authors: Wang Jianwei , Paesani Stefano , Ding Yunhong , Santagati Raffaele , Skrzypczyk Paul , Salavrakos Alexia , Tura Jordi , Augusiak Remigiusz , Mančinska Laura , Bacco Davide , Bonneau Damien , Silverstone Joshua W. , Gong Qihuang , Acín Antonio , Rottwitt Karsten , Oxenløwe Leif K. , O’Brien Jeremy L. , Laing Anthony , Thompson Mark G.
Published: April 2018

Large-scale integrated quantum optics

The ability to pattern optical circuits on-chip, along with coupling in single and entangled photon sources, provides the basis for an integrated quantum optics platform. Wang
et al.
demonstrate how they can expand on that platform to fabricate very large quantum optical circuitry. They integrated more than 550 quantum optical components and 16 photon sources on a state-of-the-art single silicon chip, enabling universal generation, control, and analysis of multidimensional entanglement. The results illustrate the power of an integrated quantum optics approach for developing quantum technologies.

Science
, this issue p.
285
Group B Streptococcus Vaginal Carriage in Pregnant Women as Deciphered by Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeat Analysis
Authors: Beauruelle Clemence , Pastuszka Adeline , Mereghetti Laurent , Lanotte Philippe
Published: April 2018

We evaluated the diversity of group B
Streptococcus
(GBS) vaginal carriage populations in pregnant women. For this purpose, we studied each isolate present in a primary culture of a vaginal swab using a new approach based on clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) locus analysis. To evaluate the CRISPR array composition rapidly, a restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis was performed. For each different pattern observed, the CRISPR array was sequenced and capsular typing and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) were performed. A total of 970 isolates from 10 women were analyzed by CRISPR-RFLP. Each woman carrying GBS isolates presented one to five specific “personal” patterns. Five women showed similar isolates with specific and unique restriction patterns, suggesting the carriage of a single GBS clone. Different patterns were observed among isolates from the other five women. For three of these, CRISPR locus sequencing highlighted low levels of internal modifications in the locus backbone, whereas there were high levels of modifications for the last two women, suggesting the carriage of two different clones. These two clones were closely related, having the same ancestral spacer(s), the same capsular type and, in one case, the same ST, but showed different antibiotic resistance patterns in pairs. Eight of 10 women were colonized by a single GBS clone, while two of them were colonized by two strains, leading to a risk of selection of more-virulent and/or more-resistant clones during antibiotic prophylaxis. This CRISPR analysis made it possible to separate isolates belonging to a single capsular type and sequence type, highlighting the greater discriminating power of this approach.
Cost-effectiveness of interventions to control cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus in South Asia: a systematic review
Authors: Singh Kavita , Chandrasekaran Ambalam M , Bhaumik Soumyadeep , Chattopadhyay Kaushik , Gamage Anuji Upekshika , Silva Padmal De , Roy Ambuj , Prabhakaran Dorairaj , Tandon Nikhil
Published: April 2018

Objectives

More than 80% of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and diabetes mellitus (DM) burden now lies in low and middle-income countries. Hence, there is an urgent need to identify and implement the most cost-effective interventions, particularly in the resource-constraint South Asian settings. Thus, we aimed to systematically review the cost-effectiveness of individual-level, group-level and population-level interventions to control CVD and DM in South Asia.

Methods

We searched 14 electronic databases up to August 2016. The search strategy consisted of terms related to ‘economic evaluation’, ‘CVD’, ‘DM’ and ‘South Asia’. Per protocol two reviewers assessed the eligibility and methodological quality of studies using standard checklists, and extracted incremental cost-effectiveness ratios of interventions.

Results

Of the 2949 identified studies, 42 met full inclusion criteria. Critical appraisal of studies revealed 15 excellent, 18 good and 9 poor quality studies. Most studies were from India (n=37), followed by Bangladesh (n=3), Pakistan (n=2) and Bhutan (n=1). The economic evaluations were based on observational studies (n=9), randomised trials (n=12) and decision models (n=21). Together, these studies evaluated 301 policy or clinical interventions or combination of both. We found a large number of interventions were cost-effective aimed at primordial prevention (tobacco taxation, salt reduction legislation, food labelling and food advertising regulation), and primary and secondary prevention (multidrug therapy for CVD in high-risk group, lifestyle modification and metformin treatment for diabetes prevention, and screening for diabetes complications every 2–5 years). Significant heterogeneity in analytical framework and outcome measures used in these studies restricted meta-analysis and direct ranking of the interventions by their degree of cost-effectiveness.

Conclusions

The cost-effectiveness evidence for CVD and DM interventions in South Asia is growing, but most evidence is from India and limited to decision modelled outcomes. There is an urgent need for formal health technology assessment and policy evaluations in South Asia using local research data.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42013006479.
Piloting the addition of contingency management to best practice counselling as an adjunct treatment for rural and remote disordered gamblers: study protocol
Authors: Christensen Darren R , Witcher Chad S G , Leighton Trent , Hudson-Breen Rebecca , Ofori-Dei Samuel
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Problematic gambling is a significant Canadian public health concern that causes harm to the gambler, their families, and society. However, a significant minority of gambling treatment seekers drop out prior to the issue being resolved; those with higher impulsivity scores have the highest drop-out rates. Consequently, retention is a major concern for treatment providers. The aim of this study is to investigate the efficacy of internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and internet-delivered CBT and contingency management (CM+) as treatments for gambling disorder in rural Albertan populations. Contingency management (CM) is a successful treatment approach for substance dependence that uses small incentives to reinforce abstinence. This approach may be suitable for the treatment of gambling disorder. Furthermore, internet-delivered CM may hold particular promise in rural contexts, as these communities typically struggle to access traditional clinic-based counselling opportunities.

Methods and analysis

54 adults with gambling disorder will be randomised into one of two conditions: CM and CBT (CM+) or CBT alone (CBT). Gambling will be assessed at intake, every treatment session, post-treatment, and follow-up. The primary outcome measures are treatment attendance, gambling abstinence, gambling, gambling symptomatology, and gambling urge. In addition, qualitative interviews assessing study experiences will be conducted with the supervising counsellor, graduate student counsellors, study affiliates, and a subset of treatment seekers. This is the first study to use CM as a treatment for gambling disorder in rural and remote populations.

Ethics and dissemination

This study was approved by the University of Lethbridge’s Human Subject Research Committee (#2016–080). The investigators plan to publish the results from this study in academic peer-reviewed journals. Summary information will be provided to the funder.

Trial registration number

NCT02953899; Pre-results.
Effect of pasta in the context of low-glycaemic index dietary patterns on body weight and markers of adiposity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials in adults
Authors: Chiavaroli Laura , Kendall Cyril W C , Braunstein Catherine R , Blanco Mejia Sonia , Leiter Lawrence A , Jenkins David J A , Sievenpiper John L
Published: April 2018

Objective

Carbohydrate staples such as pasta have been implicated in the obesity epidemic. It is unclear whether pasta contributes to weight gain or like other low-glycaemic index (GI) foods contributes to weight loss. We synthesised the evidence of the effect of pasta on measures of adiposity.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach.

Data sources

MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library were searched through 7 February 2017.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

We included randomised controlled trials ≥3 weeks assessing the effect of pasta alone or in the context of low-GI dietary patterns on measures of global (body weight, body mass index (BMI), body fat) and regional (waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), sagittal abdominal diameter (SAD)) adiposity in adults.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed risk of bias. Data were pooled using the generic inverse-variance method and expressed as mean differences (MDs) with 95% CIs. Heterogeneity was assessed (Cochran Q statistic) and quantified (I2statistic). GRADE assessed the certainty of the evidence.

Results

We identified no trial comparisons of the effect of pasta alone and 32 trial comparisons (n=2448 participants) of the effect of pasta in the context of low-GI dietary patterns. Pasta in the context of low-GI dietary patterns significantly reduced body weight (MD=−0.63 kg; 95% CI −0.84 to –0.42 kg) and BMI (MD=−0.26 kg/m2; 95% CI −0.36 to –0.16 kg/m2) compared with higher-GI dietary patterns. There was no effect on other measures of adiposity. The certainty of the evidence was graded as moderate for body weight, BMI, WHR and SAD and low for WC and body fat.

Conclusions

Pasta in the context of low-GI dietary patterns does not adversely affect adiposity and even reduces body weight and BMI compared with higher-GI dietary patterns. Future trials should assess the effect of pasta in the context of other ‘healthy’ dietary patterns.

Trial registration number

NCT02961088; Results.
A protocol for a prospective observational study using chest and thumb ECG: transient ECG assessment in stroke evaluation (TEASE) in Sweden
Authors: Magnusson Peter , Koyi Hirsh , Mattsson Gustav
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) causes ischaemic stroke and based on risk factor evaluation warrants anticoagulation therapy. In stroke survivors, AF is typically detected with short-term ECG monitoring in the stroke unit. Prolonged continuous ECG monitoring requires substantial resources while insertable cardiac monitors are invasive and costly. Chest and thumb ECG could provide an alternative for AF detection poststroke.

The primary objective of our study is to assess the incidence of newly diagnosed AF during 28 days of chest and thumb ECG monitoring in cryptogenic stroke. Secondary objectives are to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL) using short-form health survey (SF-36) and the feasibility of the Coala Heart Monitor in patients who had a stroke.

Methods

Stroke survivors in Region Gävleborg, Sweden, will be eligible for the study from October 2017. Patients with a history of ischaemic stroke without documented AF before or during ECG evaluation in the stroke unit will be evaluated by the chest and thumb ECG system Coala Heart Monitor. The monitoring system is connected to a smartphone application which allows for remote monitoring and prompt advice on clinical management. Over a period of 28 days, patients will be monitored two times a day and may activate the ECG recording at symptoms. On completion, the system is returned by mail. This system offers a possibility to evaluate the presence of AF poststroke, but the feasibility of this system in patients who recently suffered from a stroke is unknown. In addition, HRQoL using SF-36 in comparison to Swedish population norms will be assessed. The feasibility of the Coala Heart Monitor will be assessed by a self-developed questionnaire.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by The Regional Ethical Committee in Uppsala (2017/321). The database will be closed after the last follow-up, followed by statistical analyses, interpretation of results and dissemination to a scientific journal.

Trial registration number

NCT03301662; Pre-results.
Multiple balloon-like lesions in the small intestine of an adult with chronic diarrhoea
Authors: Zhou Cheng-Bei , Lu Hong , Chen Ying-Xuan , Fang Jing-Yuan
Published: April 2018

Clinical presentation

A 28-year-old woman presented with a 3-year history of chronic watery diarrhoea along with abdominal pain and bloating, which could mostly be alleviated after defecation. Her symptom of diarrhoea, at least three times a day, could be relieved by neither probiotics nor antidiarrhoeal agents. She had also lost 5 kg in the last month. She denied family history, poor vaccine responses or significant infections in early childhood except for an allergy history to intravenous immunoglobulin (Ig) with immediate dyspnoea, palpitations and hypotension. Laboratory investigations suggested that the stool specimens were negative for viruses, parasites or bacteria. Laboratory evaluation revealed a low serum globulin level, 14.5 (reference range, 20–30 g/L); serum Ig levels were significantly abnormal: IgA <0.27 (0.7–4 g/L), IgM 0.24 (0.4–2.3 g/L), IgG 1.3 (7–16 g/L); white cell count 15.4×109/L (3.69–9.16×109/L); C-reactive protein (CRP) 20.5 (normal <10 mg/L); CD4+ lymphocyte/CD8+ lymphocyte 1.09% (1.5%–2%). Other laboratory findings were unremarkable, for example, tumour markers, autoantibodies and HIV, and so on. CT showed mesenteric nodule-like images and thickening of the wall and mucosa in small intestine. Peroral and transanal enteroscopy respectively demonstrated swelling mucosa and continuous granular lesions from duodenum to middle jejunum, and from middle ileum to terminal ileum (figure 1A–D).

Figure 1

Endoscopic images show swelling mucosa, dense nodular lesions in duodenum (A), upper jejunum (B), upper ileum (C) and terminal ileum (D).

Question

What is the most likely diagnosis?
How adolescent health influences education and employment: investigating longitudinal associations and mechanisms
Authors: Hale Daniel R , Viner Russell M
Published: April 2018

Background

Education is recognised as a strong determinant of health. Yet there is increasing concern that health in adolescence may also influence educational attainments and future life chances. We examined associations between health in early adolescence and subsequent academic and employment outcomes, exploring potential mediators of these relationships to inform intervention strategies.

Methods

We used data from the Longitudinal Study of Young People in England. Adolescent health was measured at waves 1 and 2. Outcomes included educational attainment at age 16 years and being NEET (not in education, employment or training) at age 19 years. Associations were adjusted for ethnicity, area-level deprivation and early adolescent academic attainment. Where significant associations were identified, we examined the role of hypothesised mediators including attendance and truancy, classroom behaviour, substance use and psychological distress.

Results

Health conditions in early adolescence predicted poor subsequent education and employment outcomes (ORs ranged from 1.25 to 1.72) with the exception of long-term chronic conditions and NEET status, which were unassociated. The most consistent mediating variable was social exclusion. School behaviour, truancy and substance use were significant mediators for mental health. Long-term absences mediated associations between mental health and physical health and later outcomes.

Conclusions

Health is a key component of academic and vocational achievement. Investment in health is a way of improving life chances. The identification of key mediators such as social exclusion and truancy indicate areas where screening for health conditions and provision of targeted support could improve educational, employment and health outcomes.
Preserving her voice: The Ursula Franklin archive
Authors: Suurtamm Karen
Published: April 2018

Here I consider the life and work of Dr. Ursula Martius Franklin, research physicist, metallurgist, pacifist, and feminist, and explore her archival records, deposited at the University of Toronto Archives. We give an overview of Dr. Franklin’s achievements and research; her work as a pioneering woman in science, technology, and engineering; and her commitment to pacifism and the social responsibility of the scientist.
Analysis of the xylenol isomers by femtosecond laser time of flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Kepceoğlu A. , Köklü N. , Gündoğdu Y. , Dereli Ö. , Kilic H.S.
Published: April 2018

Xylenol is a phenolic chemical substance having two methyl groups and one hydroxyl group attached to a benzene ring and has six isomers. 2,4-xylenol is the only isomer of the xylenol molecule that is in the liquid phase while the remaining isomers are all in crystal form at room temperature. In the scope of this study, we have experimentally investigated ionization and dissociation properties of xylenol isomers. All experiments were carried out by using a time of flight mass spectrometry (TOF-MS) system coupled with a femtosecond laser system. The laser pulse power-dependent multiphoton ionization of xylenol isomers was investigated by using IR (800 nm) femtosecond laser pulses having a pulse width of ∼90 fs in duration and laser intensities changing from 2.6 × 1013 to 2.6 × 1014 W/cm2. Theoretically, molecular orbitals (LUMO+1, LUMO, HOMO, HOMO–1), vertical and adiabatic ionization energies were calculated using density functional theory (DFT) with B3LYP functional and 6–311++G(d,p) basis set by following geometry optimization and performing conformational analysis.
Linear and nonlinear magneto-optical absorption in a triangular quantum well
Authors: Tung Luong V. , Vinh Pham T. , Dinh Le , Phuc Huynh V.
Published: April 2018

In this work, we study the linear and nonlinear magneto-optical absorption spectrum in a triangular quantum well (TrQW) created by the applied electric field via investigating the phonon-assisted cyclotron resonance (PACR) effect. The results are calculated for a specific Ga[Formula: see text]Al[Formula: see text]As/GaAs quantum well. The magneto-optical absorption coefficient (MOAC) and the full width at half maximum (FWHM) are found to be significantly dependent on the magnetic field, the electric field and the temperature. Our results showed that the MOAC and FWHM increase with the magnetic, electric fields and temperature. The obtained results also suggest a useful way to control the magneto-optical properties of TrQW by changing these parameters.
Feed-Forward Back-Propagation Neural Networks in Side-Channel Information Characterization
Authors: Saeedi E. , Hossain M. S. , Kong Y.
Published: April 2018

The safety of cryptosystems, mainly based on algorithmic improvement, is still vulnerable to side-channel attacks (SCA) based on machine learning. Multi-class classification based on neural networks and principal components analysis (PCA) can be powerful tools for pattern recognition and classification of side-channel information. In this paper, an experimental investigation was conducted to explore the efficiency of various architectures of feed-forward back-propagation (FFBP) neural networks and PCA against side-channel attacks. The experiment is performed on the data leakage of an FPGA implementation of elliptic curve cryptography (ECC). Our results show that the proposed method is a promising method for SCA with an overall accuracy of 88% correct classification.
A new geometrical look at Ostrogradsky’s procedure
Authors: Massa Enrico , Vignolo Stefano , Cianci Roberto , Carloni Sante
Published: April 2018

Making use of the modern techniques of non-holonomic geometry and constrained variational calculus, a revisitation of Ostrogradsky’s Hamiltonian formulation of the evolution equations determined by a Lagrangian of order [Formula: see text] in the derivatives of the configuration variables is presented.
Nonlinear Frequency Responses of Functionally Graded Carbon Nanotube-Reinforced Sandwich Curved Panel Under Uniform Temperature Field
Authors: Mehar Kulmani , Panda Subrata Kumar , Mahapatra Trupti Ranjan
Published: April 2018

The higher-order kinematic theory in conjunction with Green–Lagrange strain field has been incorporated to compute the nonlinear frequency parameter of the curved (single/doubly) graded (functionally) sandwich panel structure numerically via finite element technique. The current sandwich panel model is derived assuming the functionally graded carbon nanotube face sheets and isotropic (epoxy) core. The current mathematical model is generic in nature, i.e., the grading configurations of the face sheets and sandwich construction including the different geometrical shapes can be achieved easily. The governing equation of the sandwich structure is obtained and the subsequent weak form derived with the help of the isoparametric finite element method. The nonlinear solutions are computed via an original computer code using a robust numerical method (direct iterative method). The consistency and the accuracy of the current finite element solutions are established by executing different types of numerical examples. Also, the concurrence of current numerical solution is established by comparing the results with the available benchmark solutions. Finally, the effect of various design parameters on the nonlinear natural frequency values have been computed under the uniform temperature environment and the inferences provided in detail.
Analysis of a harvested tritrophic food chain model in the presence of additional food for top predator
Authors: Panja Prabir , Poria Swarup , Mondal Shyamal Kumar
Published: April 2018

In this paper, we propose and analyze a three-species predator–prey system in the presence of additional food for top predator. It is assumed that the middle predator is acting as a prey as well as a predator and the top predator consumes both prey as well as middle predator. It is also considered that a constant amount of additional food for top predator exists in the ecosystem. The effects of harvesting of top predator are investigated. The existence and stability conditions of the equilibria have been discussed analytically. The Hopf bifurcation analysis of the system with respect to predation rate of prey to the top predator and the harvesting effort have been analyzed both analytically and numerically. Pontryagin’s maximum principle is used to determine the optimal harvesting of top predator population to maximize the discounted net revenue. From our analysis, it is seen that the additional food has a significant impact to prevent the extinction risk of top predator population and also to increase revenue collection. Finally, some numerical results have been given in support of our analytical findings.
Synthesis and analysis of two-way-reversible shape-memory polymers
Authors: Zhang Junrui , Jiang Guojun , Huang Tianhao
Published: April 2018

In this study, we synthesized semi-crystalline thermosetting polymer that have two-way-reversible shape memory effect (2W-SME) with a single crystalline phase and an amorphous phase. The polymer could be synthesized readily and its glass transition temperature (Tg) could be tuned over a wide range. The effect of acrylic monomers on the degree of cross-linking, the effects of different conditions, the applied stress, the acrylic monomers used, and the phase ratio of the crystalline and amorphous domains on the 2W-SME were studied. Measurement results confirmed that the polymer showed the 2W-SME and, the strongest 2W-SME achieved under the optimized conditions corresponded to a reversible deformation of 8.5%.
Linear Regression Model to Identify the Factors Associated with Carbon Stock in Chure Forest of Nepal
Authors: Sharma Ira , Kakchapati Sampurna
Published: April 2018

Use of woody plants for greenhouse gas mitigation has led to the demand for rapid cost-effective estimation of forest carbon stock and related factors. This study aims to assess the factors associated with carbon stock in Chure forest of Nepal. The data were obtained from Department of Forest Research and Survey (DFRS) of Nepal. A multiple linear regression model and then sum contrasts were used to observe the association between variables such as stem volume, diameter at breast height, altitude, districts, number of trees per plot, and ownership of the forest. 95% confidence interval (CI) plots were drawn for comparing the adjusted carbon stocks with each of the factors and with the overall carbon stock. The linear regression showed a good fit of the model (adjusted R2 = 83.75%) with the results that the stem volume (sv), diameter at breast height (dbh), and the number of trees per plot showed statistically significant (p value ≤ 0.05) positive association with carbon stock. The highest carbon stock was associated with sv more than 199 m3/ha, average dbh more than 43.3 cm/plot, and number of trees more than 20/plot, whereas the altitude, geographical location, and ownership had no statistical associations at all. The results can be of use to the government for enhancing carbon stock in Chure that supports both natural resource conservation and United Nations-Reducing Emission from Deforestation and Forest Degradation program to mitigate carbon emission issues.
Influences of Oldenlandia diffusa on the CYP450 Activities in Rats Using a Cocktail Method by UHPLC-MS/MS
Authors: Lin Yiping , Wei Yanli , Hu Xiaoxia , Wu Meilling , Ying Xiaoqian , Ding Mingxing
Published: April 2018

Oldenlandia diffusa has been used to treat various cancers. Cytochrome P450, a drug metabolic enzyme, might be influenced by herbal medicine. Currently, the problem that remains is the effective treatment in drug-drug interaction situation. Potential influences of Oldenlandia diffusa were elucidated on the CYP450 activities in rats using a cocktail method. Blood samples were precipitated by acetonitrile. Quantitative determination of target test object was done by ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry detection. Influences of oldenlandia diffusa on the activities of five CYP450 subtypes in rats were evaluated by five specific probe drugs (phenacetin for CYP1A2, omeprazole for CYP2C19, tolbutamide for CYP2C9, metoprolol for CYP2D6, and midazolam for CYP3A4) according to the pharmacokinetic parameters changes. No statistically significant difference (P>0.05) in pharmacokinetic behaviors can be observed in the five probe drugs. There is a potential guidance on clinical drug combination with Oldenlandia diffusa. Oldenlandia diffusa in compound preparation showed well security.
The Differentiation Balance of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Is Crucial to Hematopoiesis
Authors: Wu Jiang , Zhang Weiwei , Ran Qian , Xiang Yang , Zhong Jiang F. , Li Shengwen Calvin , Li Zhongjun
Published: April 2018

Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), the important component and regulator of bone marrow microenvironment, give rise to hematopoietic-supporting stromal cells and form hematopoietic niches for hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). However, how BMSC differentiation affects hematopoiesis is poorly understood. In this review, we focus on the role of BMSC differentiation in hematopoiesis. We discussed the role of BMSCs and their progeny in hematopoiesis. We also examine the mechanisms that cause differentiation bias of BMSCs in stress conditions including aging, irradiation, and chemotherapy. Moreover, the differentiation balance of BMSCs is crucial to hematopoiesis. We highlight the negative effects of differentiation bias of BMSCs on hematopoietic recovery after bone marrow transplantation. Keeping the differentiation balance of BMSCs is critical for hematopoietic recovery. This review summarises current understanding about how BMSC differentiation affects hematopoiesis and its potential application in improving hematopoietic recovery after bone marrow transplantation.