bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection of aflatoxigenicity of Aspergillus flavus, based on potential gene marker, from food and feed samples
Authors: Khalid Saima , Hussain Noshal , Imran Muhammad
Published: January 2018

In this study, the incidence of aflatoxigenic strains of Aspergillus flavus was evaluated in cattle feed, water, and milk from three districts of Northern Punjab region of Pakistan. In total, 39 of the hundred samples collected were found contaminated by A. flavus. Specifically, the incidence of A. flavus was 54.28 %, 53.3 %, and 11.42 % in feed (n = 35), water (n = 30), and milk (n = 35) samples, respectively. The UV method indicated aflatoxigenic potential in 62 % of strains, and the ammonia vapor test showed 54 % of samples to be positive for aflatoxin production. Polymerase chain reaction detection of aflatoxin producing cluster of A. flavus was done by identifying four structural genes, that is, nor‐1, ver‐1, omt‐A, afl‐R. It is inferred that omt‐A and afl‐R genes were regarded as potential markers for aflatoxins production. Therefore, this study proved that omt‐A could be used for rapid detection of potential aflatoxigenic strains in feed, water and food products.

Practical applications

In this study, the isolates of Aspergillus flavus were investigated for their aflatoxigenic nature using cultural (fluorescence under UV‐light and NH4OH vapor induced color change test) and molecular (PCR) methods. The UV test is more sensitive than the ammonia test; however, comparable results from both methods strengthened our confidence in the findings. PCR results indicated the omt‐A and afl‐R genes as potential markers for aflatoxins biosynthesis because these genes were amplified in all those strains that were regarded as aflatoxigenic based on cultural methods for aflatoxin detection. Thus, the combined use of cultural and molecular methods used in this study can provide a cheaper and faster way to detect aflatoxigenic A. flavus in food and feed samples in developing countries.
Health‐related life satisfaction and its influencing factors: A cross‐sectional study in China
Authors: Wang Shou‐Qi , Ying Jie , Zhang Mei‐Ling , Shi Ying , Li Yuan , Xing Zhuang‐Jie , Li Huan‐Huan , Sun Jiao
Published: January 2018

Aim

With the rapid development of science and technology, the pace of life has accelerated. Health and life satisfaction issues of persons are gaining more attention. China, Japan, Malaysia, and Taiwan conducted international cooperative research on health of four regional populations. This research was a part of the study in mainland China, which aimed to explore health‐related life satisfaction and its influencing factors on large samples in mainland China.

Methods

A random group of 1404 persons from universities, factories, companies, and elderly centers in Changchun completed a structured questionnaire. This study centered on life satisfaction indicators, which included the current whole life, income, family relationships, peer relationships, relationships with the neighbors, living environment, personal health, family health, spare time, and housework share. Other collected data included the Body Mass Index, blood pressure, self‐rated health, Breslow's seven health practices, medical treatment within the past 6 months, physical examinations, General Health Questionnaire (GHQ)‐12 Scale, social activities, networking relationships with persons around the community, social support, and sociodemographic variables. Associations between life satisfaction, demographics, and health‐related variables were analyzed through a multiway ANOVA.

Results

The living environment and income of Chinese persons were related to their low life satisfaction. The multiway ANOVA showed that the independent relationship of self‐rated health, regular physical examinations, GHQ‐12 Scale, trust in the community, communication with the neighbors, education, and age related with life satisfaction accounting for 20.3% of the variance. Education and age showed interactive effects on life satisfaction.

Conclusion

This study identified seven factors that influenced the life satisfaction of persons in mainland China. Life satisfaction can be enhanced through interventions to improve self‐rated health, regular physical examinations, mental health, trust in the community, communication with the neighbors, education, and improvement in the health service.
Relationships between morphometrical properties and the texture of an extrusion‐expanded snack made from squid mantle (Dosidicus gigas)
Authors: Valenzuela‐Lagarda José Luis , García‐Armenta Evangelina , Pacheco‐Aguilar Ramón , Gutiérrez‐Dorado Roberto , Mazorra‐Manzano Miguel Ángel , Lugo‐Sánchez María Elena , Muy‐Rangel María Dolores
Published: January 2018

The giant squid (Dosidicus gigas) is a species of commercial interest as a source of protein, and it can be developed into ready‐to‐eat food products, including expanded extrusion snacks (EES). EES are prepared primarily from starch; however, adding animal protein increases the nutritional contents. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the protein–carbohydrate interactions on the physical and morphological characteristics of an EES made of squid mantle and potato–corn flour. The independent variable was the squid mantle content (40, 60, 80, and 100%) and two controls (01 = 100% potato, 02 = 100% corn). The expansion rate (ER) of the sample is significantly minor (p < .5) when the squid mantle content increases ER = 2.0, 1.8 1.4 to 40, 60, and 80%, respectively. In samples with more protein, crispness and crunchiness were reduced, whereas the hardness increased. Digital imaging analysis indicated that the interaction between protein and starch causes significant morphometric changes to the fractal dimension (2.665–2.739) and lacunarity (0.61–1.29). The results showed that it is possible to incorporate up to 60% squid mantle to prepare EES that possess texture and morphometric characteristics competitive in reported studies with snacks usually incorporating flours, corn, and wheat in the formulations.

Practical applications

The giant squid is a very attractive species because its meat has low caloric intake, high protein content, and is an important source of omega 3 fatty acids. Despite the desirable qualities of the squid meat its consumption is very low due to the low diffusion of the properties of its meat, acid, and ammoniacal flavor, rigid texture that requires prolonged cooking times and lack of alternatives of consumption. In Mexico, this type of squid is mainly destined for export as frozen mantle and products with little added value, which generates little economic benefit. Therefore, the results of this research may be of interest to the squid processing industry, which demands new forms of consumption of this marine species to increase their commercialization and added value.
Secondary Stress Responses in Juvenile Brazilian Flounder, Paralichthys orbignyanus, throughout and after Exposure to Sublethal Levels of Ammonia and Nitrite
Authors: C. Maltez Lucas , L. Barbas Luis A. , H. Okamoto Marcelo , L. de Alcantara Lopes Diogo , Romano Luis A. , Sampaio Luís A. , Garcia Luciano
Published: January 2018

This study investigated the secondary stress responses of Paralichthys orbignyanus exposed to ammonia and nitrite and after recovery. Fish were exposed to 0.12, 0.28, and 0.57 mg NH3‐N/L, or 5.72, 10.43, and 15.27 mg NO2‐N/L for 10 d followed by the same time length for recovery. Ammonia‐ and nitrite‐free water was used as a control treatment. Blood samples were collected after 1, 5, and 10 d of exposure and after recovery. Fish exposed to ammonia presented lower and higher glucose levels after 10 d of exposure and recovery, respectively. Ammonia induced initial and transient ionic disturbances and metabolic alkalosis. Nitrite exposure caused hyperglycemia, increased plasma K+ levels, and respiratory alkalosis, whereas metabolic acidosis was observed after recovery. Increased proportion of monocytes and/or granulocytes and reduced number of lymphocytes were demonstrated in fish exposed to 0.28 mg NH3‐N/L (Day 1) and 10.43 mg NO2‐N/L (Day 5) and after recovery in the 0.28 and 0.57 mg NH3‐N/L treatments. Exposure to ammonia decreased the proportion of granulocytes on Day 5. In conclusion, exposure to concentrations at 0.12 mg NH3‐N/L and 5.72 mg NO2‐N/L provoked physiological disorders in Brazilian flounder. Nonetheless, fish exposed to 5.72 mg NO2‐N/L following a 10‐d recovery period showed complete resumption of homeostasis.
Toll‐like receptors 7 and 9 in myasthenia gravis thymus: amplifiers of autoimmunity?
Authors: Cavalcante Paola , Barzago Claudia , Baggi Fulvio , Antozzi Carlo , Maggi Lorenzo , Mantegazza Renato , Bernasconi Pia
Published: January 2018

Pathogen infections and dysregulated Toll‐like receptor (TLR)–mediated innate immune responses are suspected to play key roles in autoimmunity. Among TLRs, TLR7 and TLR9 have been implicated in several autoimmune conditions, mainly because of their ability to promote abnormal B cell activation and survival. Recently, we provided evidence of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) persistence and reactivation in the thymus of myasthenia gravis (MG) patients, suggesting an involvement of EBV in the intrathymic pathogenesis of the disease. Considerable data highlight the existence of pathogenic crosstalk among EBV, TLR7, and TLR9: EBV elicits TLR7/9 signaling, which in turn can enhance B cell dysfunction and autoimmunity. In this article, after a brief summary of data demonstrating TLR activation in MG thymus, we provide an overview on the contribution of TLR7 and TLR9 to autoimmune diseases and discuss our recent findings indicating a pivotal role for these two receptors, along with EBV, in driving, perpetuating, and/or amplifying intrathymic B cell dysregulation and autoimmune responses in MG. Development of therapeutic approaches targeting TLR7 and TLR9 signaling could be a novel strategy for treating the chronic inflammatory autoimmune process in myasthenia gravis.
Microbiota in obesity: interactions with enteroendocrine, immune and central nervous systems
Authors: Mulders R. J. , de Git K. C. G. , Schéle E. , Dickson S. L. , Sanz Y. , Adan R. A. H.
Published: January 2018

Western diets, with high consumption of simple sugars and saturated fats, contribute to the rise in the prevalence of obesity. It now seems clear that high‐fat diets cause obesity, at least in part, by modifying the composition and function of the microorganisms that colonize in the gastrointestinal tract, the microbiota. The exact pathways by which intestinal microbiota contribute to obesity remain largely unknown. High‐fat diet‐induced alterations in intestinal microbiota have been suggested to increase energy extraction, intestinal permeability and systemic inflammation while decreasing the capability to generate obesity‐suppressing short‐chain fatty acids. Moreover, by increasing systemic inflammation, microglial activation and affecting vagal nerve activity, ‘obese microbiota’ indirectly influence hypothalamic gene expression and promote overeating. Because the potential of intestinal microbiota to induce obesity has been recognized, multiple ways to modify its composition and function are being investigated to provide novel preventive and therapeutic strategies against diet‐induced obesity.
Wiring taste receptor cells to the central gustatory system
Authors: Spielman AI , Brand JG
Published: January 2018

Taste receptor cells in the tongue are epithelial in nature and turnover frequently. Taste receptor cell‐associated neurons carrying bitter, sweet, or sour signals never turnover and are hardwired to specific gustatory centers in the brain. How can ever‐changing bitter or sweet receptors find never‐changing neurons that must match the specificity of the signal? This article reviews a recent paper published in Nature (Lee, MacPherson, Parada, Zuker, & Ryba, , 548:330‐333) that identified two molecules belonging to the semaphorin axon guidance family of molecules (SEMA3A and SEMA7A) that help maintain the “labeled line principle” between peripheral bitter or sweet receptors and their respective central projection area in the gustatory center.
A general linear method to evaluate the hardening behaviour of metals at large strain with full‐field measurements
Authors: Rossi M. , Lattanzi A. , Barlat F.
Published: January 2018

The hardening behaviour of metals is generally described in terms of a stress‐strain curve derived from experiments. In this paper, a linear method to identify the stress‐strain curve starting from full‐field measurement data is presented. This method can be applied to any stress state using a generic yield function, the only requirement is that the full‐field measurement is extended up to the border of the specimen. The method is presented and validated using a finite element model of a notched specimen. Moreover, experiments were performed on specimens cut from a BH340 steel sheet to illustrate the viability to actual cases. Two geometries were considered, a standard uniaxial test, where the method was used to evaluate the post‐necking behaviour, and a notched specimen with a heterogeneous strain field. The proposed method, named linear stress‐strain curve identification (LSSCI), can be a useful tool in combination with inverse methods to identify the constitutive behaviour of metals in large strain plasticity.
Resolving incomplete single nucleotide polymorphism tagging of HLA‐DQ2.2 for coeliac disease genotyping using digital droplet PCR
Authors: Hardy M. Y. , Ontiveros N. , Varney M. D. , Tye‐Din J. A.
Published: January 2018

A hallmark of coeliac disease (CD) is the exceptionally strong genetic association with HLA‐DQ2.5, DQ8, and DQ2.2. HLA typing provides information on CD risk important to both clinicians and researchers. A method that enables simple and fast detection of all CD risk genotypes is particularly desirable for the study of large populations. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐based HLA typing can detect the CD risk genotypes by detecting a combination of six SNPs but this approach can struggle to resolve HLA‐DQ2.2, seen in 4% of European CD patients, because of the low resolution of one negatively predicting SNP. We sought to optimise SNP‐based HLA typing by harnessing the additional resolution of digital droplet PCR to resolve HLA‐DQ2.2. Here we test this two‐step approach in an unselected sample of Mexican DNA and compare its accuracy to DNA typed using traditional exon detection. The addition of digital droplet PCR for samples requiring negative prediction of HLA‐DQ2.2 enabled HLA‐DQ2.2 to be accurately typed. This technique is a simple addition to a SNP‐based typing strategy and enables comprehensive definition of all at‐risk HLA genotypes in CD in a timely and cost‐effective manner.
Hematology and serum biochemistry of free‐ranging and captive Sechuran foxes (Lycalopex sechurae)
Authors: Lescano Jesús , Quevedo Miryam , Villalobos Marina , Gavidia Cesar M.
Published: January 2018

Background

Hematologic and serum biochemical reference values obtained from captive or free‐ranging wildlife populations may not be comparable as there can be significant variations due to preanalytic and analytic differences, including methods of capture and restraint, overall management in captivity including diet and composition of animal groups, and analytic methods being used. Hematology and serum biochemistry have never been studied in captive or free‐ranging populations of Sechuran foxes (Lycalopex sechurae).

Objectives

The purposes of the study were to determine hematologic and serum biochemical RI in Sechuran foxes and to explore differences in these variables related to sex and overall life circumstances.

Methods

Blood samples were obtained from 15 free‐ranging and 15 captive Sechuran foxes. Hematology variables were assessed by blood smear examination and automated analyzer methodology. Serum biochemical analysis was performed by automated analyzer methodology. Descriptive statistics were calculated for each variable. Data obtained from free‐ranging and captive groups were statistically compared and RIs were calculated.

Results

Captive Sechuran foxes had significantly (P < .05) higher MCH, MCHC, and eosinophil counts and significantly lower band neutrophil counts than free‐ranging foxes. Free‐ranging Sechuran foxes had significantly (P < .05) higher serum lipase and globulins and significantly lower albumin, total bilirubin, and indirect bilirubin than captive foxes.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that there are hematologic and serum biochemical differences between captive and free‐ranging Sechuran fox populations. Hence, such differences should be considered when using these variables to assess the health status of this species.
The variability of wood density and compression strength of Norway spruce (Picea abies/L./Karst.) within the stem
Authors: Horáček Petr , Fajstavr Marek , Stojanović Marko
Published: January 2018

This study relates to the variability of wood density and compression strength parallel to grain within the stem of spruce trees (Picea abies/L./Karst.). The sample tree originated from the Giant Mountains and was an adult autochtonous mountain spruce. The properties were analysed for wood that formed between 1850 and 1990 along (1) the north-south oriented radius and along (2) the stem height on test specimens with the following dimensions: 20×20×30 mm, prepared from logs taken from the stem base at distances of 2, 4, 6, 10, 14, 20, 22, 24 and 26 m. In individual sections, the properties of the samples oriented in the north or south direction did not differ, while the effect of different ages on the properties showed statistically significant differences at each orientation (p < 0.05). Along the radius, the properties showed an increasing trend in tree-rings that developed between 1850 and 1940 with a slight decrease in the following years. The coefficient of variation in various decades was 1–7 % (wood density) and 3–15 % (wood compression strength). Along the stem height, the properties gradually increased to a height of 20 m, while the increase in values ​​was more pronounced in the 22–26 m interval. The variability of the wood properties along the stem height corresponded to the variability of the properties along the stem radius. A linear dependence between wood strength and density was demonstrated. Compared to what had been previously written, wood density showed a greater impact, probably due to the biomechanical optimization of the stem with regard to mechanical wind and snow loads in the mountains.
Temperature conditions at the mountain study site of Bílý Kříž (the Beskids Mts.) during the past 20 years
Authors: Marková Irena , Janouš Dalibor , Nezval Ondřej
Published: January 2018

Global climate change (including temperature changes) had already observable effects on the environment and humanity. Air temperature characteristics have been observed at the mountain study site of Bílý Kříž (the Beskids Mts., Czech Republic) since 1989. This paper presents an analysis of long-term (1997–2016) air temperature conditions at this study. Comparison is made of selected long-term mean air temperature characteristics with mean air temperature characteristics for the period 1997–2016. The results show slightly increasing air temperature, as indicated not only by values for mean annual air temperature but also by changes in number of extreme days (summer, tropical, ice, etc.) and occurrence of hot period. Moreover, the length of the growth season has increase slightly.
Cell shortening and calcium dynamics in epicardial and endocardial myocytes from the left ventricle of Goto‐Kakizaki type 2 diabetic rats
Authors: Smail Manal , Al Kury Lina , Qureshi Muhammad Anwar , Shmygol Anatoliy , Oz Murat , Singh Jaipaul , Howarth Frank Christopher
Published: January 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

To investigate haemodynamic dysfunction in the type 2 diabetic Goto‐Kakizaki (GK) rat, we measured shortening and Ca2+ transport in ventricular myocytes from epicardial (EPI) and endocardial (ENDO) regions.

What is the main finding and its importance?

EPI and ENDO GK myocytes displayed similar hypertrophy. Time to peak (TPK) and time to half (THALF) relaxation were prolonged in EPI GK myocytes. TPK Ca2+ transient was prolonged and THALF decay of the Ca2+ transient was shortened in EPI GK myocytes. Amplitude of shortening, Ca2+ transient and sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ were unaltered in EPI and ENDO myocytes from Goto‐Kakizaki compared with control rats. We demostrated regional differences in shortening and Ca2+ transport in Goto‐Kakizaki rats.

Diabetic cardiomyopathy is considered to be one of the major diabetes‐associated complications, and the pathogenesis of cardiac dysfunction is not well understood. The electromechanical properties of cardiac myocytes vary across the walls of the chambers. The aim of this study was to investigate shortening and Ca2+ transport in epicardial (EPI) and endocardial (ENDO) left ventricular myocytes in the Goto‐Kakizaki (GK) type 2 diabetic rat heart. Shortening and intracellular Ca2+ transients were measured by video edge detection and fluorescence photometry. Myocyte surface area was increased in EPI‐GK and ENDO‐GK compared with control EPI‐CON and ENDO‐CON myocytes. Time to peak shortening was prolonged in EPI‐GK compared with EPI‐CON and in ENDO‐CON compared with EPI‐CON myocytes. Time to half‐relaxation of shortening and time to peak Ca2+ transient were prolonged in EPI‐GK compared with EPI‐CON myocytes. Time to half‐decay of the Ca2+ transient was prolonged in EPI‐CON compared with EPI‐GK and in EPI‐CON compared with ENDO‐CON myocytes. The amplitude of shortening and the Ca2+ transient were unaltered in EPI‐GK and ENDO‐GK compared with their respective controls. Sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ and myofilament sensitivity to Ca2+ were unaltered in EPI‐GK and ENDO‐GK compared with their respective controls. Regional differences in Ca2+ signalling in healthy and diabetic myocytes might account for variation in the dynamics of myocyte shortening. Further studies will be required to clarify the mechanisms underlying regional differences in the time course of shortening and the Ca2+ transient in EPI and ENDO myocytes from diabetic and control hearts.
Pulmonary arterial hypertension reduces energy efficiency of right, but not left, rat ventricular trabeculae
Authors: Pham Toan , Nisbet Linley , Taberner Andrew , Loiselle Denis , Han June‐Chiew
Published: January 2018

Key points

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) triggers right ventricle (RV) hypertrophy and left ventricle (LV) atrophy, which progressively leads to heart failure.

We designed experiments under conditions mimicking those encountered by the heart in vivo that allowed us to investigate whether consequent structural and functional remodelling of the ventricles affects their respective energy efficiencies.

We found that peak work output was lower in RV trabeculae from PAH rats due to reduced extent and velocity of shortening. However, their suprabasal enthalpy was unaffected due to increased activation heat, resulting in reduced suprabasal efficiency. There was no effect of PAH on LV suprabasal efficiency.

We conclude that the mechanism underlying the reduced energy efficiency of hypertrophied RV tissues is attributable to the increased energy cost of Ca2+ cycling, whereas atrophied LV tissues still maintain normal mechano‐energetic performance.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) greatly increases the afterload on the right ventricle (RV), triggering RV hypertrophy, which progressively leads to RV failure. In contrast, the disease reduces the passive filling pressure of the left ventricle (LV), resulting in LV atrophy. We investigated whether these distinct structural and functional consequences to the ventricles affect their respective energy efficiencies. We studied trabeculae isolated from both ventricles of Wistar rats with monocrotaline‐induced PAH and their respective Control groups. Trabeculae were mounted in a calorimeter at 37°C. While contracting at 5 Hz, they were subjected to stress–length work‐loops over a wide range of afterloads. They were subsequently required to undergo a series of isometric contractions at various muscle lengths. In both protocols, stress production, length change and suprabasal heat output were simultaneously measured. We found that RV trabeculae from PAH rats generated higher activation heat, but developed normal active stress. Their peak external work output was lower due to reduced extent and velocity of shortening. Despite lower peak work output, suprabasal enthalpy was unaffected, thereby rendering suprabasal efficiency lower. Crossbridge efficiency, however, was unaffected. In contrast, LV trabeculae from PAH rats maintained normal mechano‐energetic performance. Pulmonary arterial hypertension reduces the suprabasal energy efficiency of hypertrophied right ventricular tissues as a consequence of the increased energy cost of Ca2+ cycling.
A case of tuberculosis pericarditis with an interesting echocardiographic image
Authors: Arslan Kursat , Taner Ufuk , Efe Suleyman Cagan , Ayca Burak , Karabag Turgut
Published: January 2018

Tuberculosis-associated pericardial disorders are an excessively rare manifestation of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. The patients may present with constrictive pericarditis or pericardial fluid accumulation leading to cardiac tamponade. This paper reports a case of tuberculosis-associated pericardial effusion with dense fibrinous material not causing tamponade in a foreigner presenting with nonspecific symptoms. It also provides a discussion about the diagnostic and therapeutic methods as well as interesting echocardiographic images of the patient.
Using a high-stability quartz-crystal microbalance to measure and model the chemical kinetics for gases in and on metals: Oxygen in gold
Authors: Slavin Alan J.
Published: January 2018

This paper describes the use of a high-stability quartz-crystal microbalance (QCM) to measure the mass of a gas absorbed on and in the metal electrode on the quartz oscillator, when the gas pressure is low and the gas can be considered as rigidly attached to the metal, so the viscosity effects are negligible. This provides an absolute measure of the total mass of gas uptake as a function of time, which can be used to model the kinetic processes involved. The technique can measure diffusion parameters of gases in metals close to room temperature at gas pressures much below one atmosphere, as relevant to surface processes such as atomic layer deposition and model studies of heterogeneous catalysis, whereas traditional diffusion measurements require temperatures over 400 °C at gas pressures of at least a few Torr. A strong aspect of the method is the ability to combine the “bulk” measurement of absorbed mass by a QCM with a surface-sensitive technique such as Auger electron spectroscopy in the same vacuum chamber. The method is illustrated using atomic oxygen, formed under O2 gas at 6 × 10−5 Torr in the presence of a hot tungsten filament, interacting with the gold electrode on a QCM crystal held at 52 to 120 °C. Some of the incident oxygen forms a surface oxide which eventually blocks more uptake, and the rest (about 80%) indiffuses. Surprisingly, the rate of oxygen uptake initially increases with the amount of oxygen previously absorbed; therefore, the measured oxygen uptake with time is reproducible only if preadsorption of oxygen conditions the sample. Temperatures above 130 °C are necessary for measurable thermal desorption, but all the oxygen can be removed by CO scavenging at all temperatures of these experiments. Simple kinetic models are developed for fitting the experimental QCM data to extract parameters including those controlling adsorption of oxygen, the CO scavenging probability, and limits on the diffusion jump frequency of dissolved oxygen. The reproducibility of the data and the good model fits to it provide proof-of-principle for the technique.
Comparisons of Segment Coordination: An Investigation of Vector Coding
Authors: Freedman Silvernail Julia , van Emmerik Richard E.A. , Boyer Katherine , Busa Michael A. , Hamill Joseph
Published: January 2018

The development of a methodology to assess movement coordination has provided gait researchers a tool to assess movement organization. A challenge in analyzing movement coordination using vector coding lies within the inherent circularity of data garnered from this technique. Therefore, the purpose of this investigation was to determine if accurate group comparisons can be made with varying techniques of vector coding analyses. Thigh–shank coordination was analyzed using a modified vector coding technique on data from 2 groups of runners. Movement coordination was compared between groups using 3 techniques: (1) linear average completed with compressed data (0°–180°) and noncompressed data (0°–360°), (2) coordination phase binning analysis; and (3) a circular statistics analysis. Circular statistics (inferential) analysis provided a rigorous comparison of average movement coordination between groups. In addition, the binning analysis provided a metric for detecting even small differences in the time spent with a particular coordination pattern between groups. However, the linear analysis provided erroneous group comparisons. Furthermore, with compressed data, linear analysis led to misclassification of coordination patterns. While data compression may be attractive as a means of simplifying statistical analysis of inherently circular data, recommendations are to use circular statistics and binning methods on noncompressed data.
Validity and Reliability of the Pictorial Scale of Perceived Movement Skill Competence for Young Greek Children
Authors: Venetsanou Fotini , Kossyva Irene , Valentini Nadia , Afthentopoulou Anastasia-Evangelia , Barnett Lisa
Published: January 2018

This study aimed to adapt the Pictorial Scale of Perceived Movement Skill Competence for Young Children (PMSC) in Greek and assess its reliability and face, construct, and concurrent validity in 5- to 9-year-old Greek children. Face validity was conducted with 20 children, whereas a larger sample (N = 227) was used to examine construct validity. Two subsamples (n = 38;n = 142) were used to investigate test-retest reliability and concurrent validity of the Greek version of the PMSC (PMSC-GR) with the Pictorial Scale of Perceived Competence and Social Acceptance for Young Children (PSPCSA) and the physical competence subscale (PCS), respectively. The panel of experts confirmed the clarity and concept integrity of the PMSC-GR. Temporal stability was confirmed for PMSC-GR total score and both Locomotor (LOC; ICC = .80; 95% CI, .62–.89) and Object Control (OC; ICC = .91; 95% CI, .82–.95) subscales. Appropriate internal consistency was found for the total score as well as for the LOC and OC scores (polychoric correlations: PMSC-GR, .80; LOC, .60; OC, .76). Confirmatory factor analysis supported the construct validity of a one-factor and two-factor model. Scores of the PMSC and the PSPCSA-PCS were correlated to a low level. The PMSC-GR is valid and reliable for Greek children and appears to measure a different construct to general physical perceived competence.
Proximal-to-Distal Sequencing and Coordination Variability in the Volleyball Spike of Elite Youth Players: Effects of Gender and Growth
Authors: Serrien Ben , Goossens Maggy , Baeyens Jean-Pierre
Published: January 2018

The aim of this article was to examine changes in elite youth volleyball players’ performance, proximal-to-distal sequencing, and coordination variability of the spike motion between the start and after 1 year of a talent development program. Eight boys and eight girls in late puberty/early adolescence were measured with 3D motion capturing for 2 consecutive years. Performance and performance variability increased and decreased, respectively, but both changes were not significantly correlated with growth. Gender differences were identified for proximal-to-distal sequencing, but a very strong similarity between both years was observed for all seven degrees of freedom (pelvis and trunk rotation, trunk flexion, shoulder horizontal adduction, shoulder internal rotation, elbow extension, and wrist flexion). The fact that this sequence was kept stable, despite marked growth effects, likely indicates that this sequence is biomechanically efficient and the motor control systems try to preserve it. Coordination variability was analyzed by coordination profiling with self-organizing maps. The decrease in coordination variability correlated strongly and significantly with increase in body height. Participants with stronger growth rates were observed to show smaller decreases in coordination variability, which possibly represents a mechanism to explore various coordination patterns to adapt to the more rapidly changing organismic constraints.
Effects of a 4-Week Intrinsic Foot Muscle Exercise Program on Motor Function: A Preliminary Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Fraser John J. , Hertel Jay
Published: January 2018

Context: Intrinsic foot muscle (IFM) exercises are utilized clinically in the treatment of foot and ankle conditions. However, the effectiveness of training on IFM motor function is unknown. Objective: To study the effects of a 4-week IFM exercise program on motor function, perceived difficulty, and IFM motor activation measured using ultrasound imaging (USI) during 3 IFM exercises. Design: Single-blinded randomized control trial. Setting: Laboratory. Participants: A total of 24 healthy, recreationally active young adults without history of ankle–foot injury who have never performed IFM exercises participated (12 males and 12 females; mean age = 21.5 [4.8] y; body mass index = 23.5 [2.9] kg/m2) Intervention: Following randomization, participants allocated to the intervention group received a 4-week progressive home IFM exercise program performed daily. Participants in the control group did not receive any intervention. Main Outcome Measures: Clinician-assessed motor performance (4-point scale: 0 = does not initiate movement and 3 = performs exercise in standard pattern), participant-perceived difficulty (5-point Likert scale: 1 = very easy and 5 = very difficult), and USI motor activation measures of the abductor hallucis, flexor digitorum brevis, quadratus plantae, and flexor hallucis brevis were assessed during toe-spread-out, hallux-extension, and lesser-toe-extension exercises. Results: The intervention group demonstrated significant improvement in motor performance in the toe-spread-out exercise (pre = 1.9 [0.5], post = 2.6 [0.5], P = .008) and less perceived difficulty in the toe-spread-out (pre = 3.1 [1.3], post = 2.3 [1.2], P = .01), hallux-extension (pre = 3.2 [1.5], post = 2.0 [1.2], P = .005), and lesser-toe-extension (pre = 1.9 [0.7], post = 1.2 [0.4], P = .03) exercises. Both groups demonstrated increased USI motor activation in the abductor hallucis during the toe-spread-out exercise (intervention: pre = 1.07 [0.06], post = 1.11 [0.08] and control: pre = 1.08 [0.06], post = 1.11 [0.06]; P = .05). No other significant main effects or group by time interactions were observed. Conclusion: A 4-week IFM exercise intervention resulted in improved motor performance and decreased perceived difficulty when performing the exercises, but not changes in USI measures of IFM activation compared with a control group.
Emergence and Spread of
kelch13
Mutations Associated with Artemisinin Resistance in Plasmodium falciparum Parasites in 12 Thai Provinces from 2007 to 2016
Authors: Kobasa Theerayot , Talundzic Eldin , Sug-aram Rungniran , Boondat Patcharida , Goldman Ira F. , Lucchi Naomi W. , Dharmarak Pratin , Sintasath David , Fukuda Mark , Whistler Toni , MacArthur John , Udhayakumar Venkatachalam , Prempree Preecha , Chinanonwait Nipon
Published: January 2018

Artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) is the most effective and widely used treatment for uncomplicated
Plasmodium falciparum
malaria and is a cornerstone for malaria control and prevention globally. Resistance to artemisinin derivatives has been confirmed in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) and manifests as slow parasite clearance in patients and reduced ring stage susceptibility to artemisinins in survival assays. The
P. falciparum
kelch13
gene mutations associated with artemisinin-resistant parasites are now widespread in the GMS. We genotyped 277 samples collected during an observational study from 2012 to 2016 from eight provinces in Thailand to identify
P. falciparum kelch13
mutations. The results were combined with previously reported genotyping results from Thailand to construct a map illustrating the evolution of
P. falciparum kelch13
mutations from 2007 to 2016 in that country. Different mutant alleles were found in strains with different geographical origins. The artemisinin resistance-conferring Y493H and R539T mutations were detected mainly in eastern Thailand (bordering Cambodia), while P574L was found only in western Thailand and R561H only in northwestern Thailand. The C580Y mutation was found across the entire country and was nearing fixation along the Thai-Cambodia border. Overall, the prevalence of artemisinin resistance mutations increased over the last 10 years across Thailand, especially along the Thai-Cambodia border. Molecular surveillance and therapeutic efficacy monitoring should be intensified in the region to further assess the extent and spread of artemisinin resistance.
Complete Genome Sequences of the Plant Pathogens
Dickeya solani
RNS 08.23.3.1.A and
Dickeya dianthicola
RNS04.9
Authors: Khayi Slimane , Blin Pauline , Chong Teik Min , Robic Kévin , Chan Kok-Gan , Faure Denis
Published: January 2018

Dickeya
spp. are bacterial pathogens causing soft-rot and blackleg diseases on a wide range of ornamental plants and crops. In this paper, we announce the PacBio complete genome sequences of the plant pathogens
Dickeya solani
RNS 08.23.3.1.A (PRI3337) and
Dickeya dianthicola
RNS04.9.
Timing and mechanism of the rise of the Shillong Plateau in the Himalayan foreland
Authors: Govin G. , Najman Y. , Copley A. , Millar I. , van der Beek P. , Huyghe P. , Grujic D. , Davenport J.
Published: January 2018

The Shillong Plateau (northeastern India) constitutes the only significant topography in the Himalayan foreland. Knowledge of its surface uplift history is key to understanding topographic development and unraveling tectonic–climate–topographic coupling in the eastern Himalaya. We use the sedimentary record of the Himalayan foreland basin north of the Shillong Plateau to show that the paleo-Brahmaputra river was redirected north and west by the rising plateau at 5.2–4.9 Ma. We suggest that onset of plateau uplift is a result of increased fault-slip rates in response to stresses caused by the Indian lithosphere bending beneath the Himalaya.
Primary goals, information-giving and men’s understanding: a qualitative study of Australian and UK doctors’ varied communication about PSA screening
Authors: Pickles Kristen , Carter Stacy M , Rychetnik Lucie , McCaffery Kirsten , Entwistle Vikki A
Published: January 2018

Objectives

(1) To characterise variation in general practitioners’ (GPs’) accounts of communicating with men about prostate cancer screening using the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, (2) to characterise GPs’ reasons for communicating as they do and (3) to explain why and under what conditions GP communication approaches vary.

Study design and setting

A grounded theory study. We interviewed 69 GPs consulting in primary care practices in Australia (n=40) and the UK (n=29).

Results

GPs explained their communication practices in relation to their primary goals. In Australia, three different communication goals were reported: to encourage asymptomatic men to either have a PSA test, or not test, or alternatively, to support men to make their own decision. As well as having different primary goals, GPs aimed to provide different information (from comprehensive to strongly filtered) and to support men to develop different kinds of understanding, from population-level to ‘gist’ understanding. Taking into account these three dimensions (goals, information, understanding) and building on Entwistleet al’s Consider an Offer framework, we derived four overarching approaches to communication:Be screened,Do not be screened,Analyse and choose, andAs you wish. We also describe ways in which situational and relational factors influenced GPs’ preferred communication approach.

Conclusion

GPs’ reported approach to communicating about prostate cancer screening varies according to three dimensions—their primary goal, information provision preference and understanding sought—and in response to specific practice situations. If GP communication about PSA screening is to become more standardised in Australia, it is likely that each of these dimensions will require attention in policy and practice support interventions.
Timing of probiotic milk consumption during pregnancy and effects on the incidence of preeclampsia and preterm delivery: a prospective observational cohort study in Norway
Authors: Nordqvist Mahsa , Jacobsson Bo , Brantsæter Anne-Lise , Myhre Ronny , Nilsson Staffan , Sengpiel Verena
Published: January 2018

Objectives

To investigate whether the timing of probiotic milk intake before, during early or late pregnancy influences associations with preeclampsia and preterm delivery.

Design

Population based prospective cohort study.

Setting

Norway, between 1999 and 2008.

Participants

70 149 singleton pregnancies resulting in live-born babies from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (no chronic disease, answered questionnaires, no placenta previa/cerclage/serious malformation of fetus, first enrolment pregnancy). Only nulliparous women (n=37 050) were included in the preeclampsia analysis. Both iatrogenic and spontaneous preterm delivery (between gestational weeks 22+0 and 36+6) with spontaneous term controls (between gestational weeks 39+0 and 40+6) were included in the preterm delivery analysis resulting in 34 458 cases.

Main outcome measures

Adjusted OR for preeclampsia and preterm delivery according to consumption of probiotic milk at three different time periods (before pregnancy, during early and late pregnancy).

Results

Probiotic milk intake in late pregnancy (but not before or in early pregnancy) was significantly associated with lower preeclampsia risk (adjusted OR: 0.80 (95% CI 0.68 to 0.94) p-value: 0.007). Probiotic intake during early (but not before or during late pregnancy) was significantly associated with lower risk of preterm delivery (adjusted OR: 0.79 (0.64 to 0.97) p-value: 0.03).

Conclusions

In this observational study, we found an association between timing of probiotic milk consumption during pregnancy and the incidence of the adverse pregnancy outcomes preeclampsia and preterm delivery. If future randomised controlled trials could establish a causal association between probiotics consumption and reduced risk of preeclampsia and preterm delivery, recommending probiotics would be a promising public health measure to reduce these adverse pregnancy outcomes.
Patient-centred attitudes among medical students in Mali, West Africa: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hurley Emily A , Doumbia Seydou , Kennedy Caitlin E , Winch Peter J , Roter Debra L , Murray Sarah M , Harvey Steven A
Published: January 2018

Background/objective

Patient-centred attitudes have been shown to decline during medical training in high-income countries, yet little is known about attitudes among West African medical students. We sought to measure student attitudes towards patient-centredness and examine validity of the 18-item Patient–Practitioner Orientation Scale (PPOS) in this context.

Participants/setting

430 medical students in years 1, 3, 5 and 6 of a 6-year medical training programme in Bamako, Mali.

Design

We conducted a cross-sectional survey, compared the proportion of students who agreed with each PPOS item by gender and academic year, and calculated composite PPOS scores. To examine psychometrics of the PPOS and its two subscales (‘sharing’ and ‘caring’), we calculated internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha) and performed confirmatory and exploratory factor analyses (CFA and EFA).

Results

In seven of the nine ‘sharing’ items, the majority of students held attitudes favouring a provider-dominant style. For five of the nine ‘caring’ items, the majority of student responded consistently with patient-centred attitudes, while in the other four, responses indicated a disease-centred orientation. In eight items, a greater proportion of fifth/sixth year students held patient-centred attitudes as compared with first year students; there were few gender differences. Average PPOS scores indicated students were moderately patient-centred, with more favourable attitudes towards the ‘caring’ aspect than ‘sharing’. Internal consistency of the PPOS was inadequate for the full scale (α=0.58) and subscales (‘sharing’ α=0.37; ‘caring’ α=0.48). CFA did not support the original PPOS factors and EFA did not identify an improved structure.

Conclusions

West African medical students training in Bamako are moderately patient-centred and do not show the same declines in patient-centred attitudes in higher academic years as seen in other settings. Medical students may benefit from training in shared power skills and in attending to patient lifestyle factors. Locally validated tools are needed to guide West African medical schools in fostering patient-centredness among students.
Interdisciplinary collaboration across secondary and primary care to improve medication safety in the elderly (IMMENSE study): study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Johansen Jeanette Schultz , Havnes Kjerstin , Halvorsen Kjell H. , Haustreis Stine , Skaue Lillann Wilsgård , Kamycheva Elena , Mathiesen Liv , Viktil Kirsten K. , Granås Anne Gerd , Garcia Beate H.
Published: January 2018

Introduction

Drug-related problems (DRPs) are common in the elderly, leading to suboptimal therapy, hospitalisations and increased mortality. The integrated medicines management (IMM) model is a multifactorial interdisciplinary methodology aiming to optimise individual medication therapy throughout the hospital stay. IMM has been shown to reduce readmissions and drug-related hospital readmissions. Using the IMM model as a template, we have designed an intervention aiming both to improve medication safety in hospitals, and communication across the secondary and primary care interface. This paper presents the study protocol to explore the effects of the intervention with regard to healthcare use, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and medication appropriateness in elderly patients.

Methods and analysis

A total of 500 patients aged ≥70 years will be included and randomised to control (standard care) or intervention group (1:1). The intervention comprises five steps mainly performed by pharmacists: (1) medication reconciliation at admission, (2) medication review during hospital stay, (3) patient counselling about the use of medicines, (4) a comprehensible and patient-friendly medication list with explanations in discharge summary and (5) postdischarge phone calls to the primary care level. The primary outcome is the difference between intervention and control patients in the rate of emergency medical visits (acute readmissions and visits to emergency department) 12 months after discharge. Secondary outcomes include length of index hospital stay, time to first readmission, mortality, hip fractures, strokes, medication changes, HRQoL and medication appropriateness. Patient inclusion started in September 2016.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial was approved by the Norwegian Centre for Research Data and the Norwegian Data Protection Authority. We aim to publish the results in international peer-reviewed open access journals, at national and international conferences, and as part of two PhD theses.

Trial registration number

NCT02816086.