bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accounting for biotic interactions through alpha‐diversity constraints in stacked species distribution models
Authors: Gavish Yoni , Marsh Charles J. , Kuemmerlen Mathias , Stoll Stefan , Haase Peter , Kunin William E.
Published: January 2017

Species distribution models (SDM) are widely used to predict occupancy patterns at fine resolution over wide extents. However, SDMs generally ignore the effect of biotic interactions and tend to overpredict the number of species that can coexist at a given location and time (hereafter, the alpha‐capacity). We developed an extension of SDMs that integrates species‐level and community‐level modelling to account for the above drivers.

The alpha‐adjusted SDM takes the Probabilities of Occurrence (PoO) for all species of a community and the site's alpha‐capacity and adjusts the PoO, such that: (i) their sum will equal the alpha‐capacity as predicted by probability theory; and (ii) the adjusted PoO are dependent upon the relative suitability of each species for that site. The new method was tested using community data comprising 87 freshwater invertebrate species in an LTER watershed in Germany. We explored the ability of the method to predict alpha and beta‐diversity patterns. We further focused on the effect on model performance at the species‐level of the error associated with modelling alpha‐capacity, of differences in gamma diversity (the size of the community) and of the type of community (random or guild‐based).

The models that predicted alpha‐capacity contained considerable error, and thus adjusting the PoO according to the modelled alpha‐capacity resulted with decreased performance at the species level. However, when using the observed alpha‐capacity to mimic a good alpha‐capacity model, the alpha‐adjusted SDMs usually resulted in increased performance. We further found that the alpha‐adjusted SDM was better than the original SDM at predicting beta‐diversity patterns, especially when using similarity indices that are sensitive to double absences.

Using the alpha‐adjusted SDM approach may increase the predictive performance at the species and community levels if alpha‐capacity can be assessed or modelled with sufficient accuracy, especially in relatively small communities of closely interacting species. With better models to predict alpha‐capacity being developed, alpha‐adjusted SDM has considerable potential to provide more realistic predictions of species‐distribution patterns.
Pharmacokinetics of 400 mg ropivacaine after periarticular local infiltration analgesia for total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Fenten M. G. E. , Bakker S. M. K. , Touw D. J. , van den Bemt B. J. F. , Scheffer G. J. , Heesterbeek P. J. C. , Stienstra R.
Published: January 2017

Background

Although considered safe, no pharmacokinetic data of high dose, high volume local infiltration analgesia (LIA) with ropivacaine without the use of a surgical drain or intra‐articular catheter have been described. The purpose of this study is to describe the maximum total and unbound ropivacaine concentrations (Cmax, Cu max) and corresponding maximum times (Tmax, Tu max) of a single‐shot ropivacaine (200 ml 0.2%) and 0.75 mg epinephrine (1000 μg/ml) when used for LIA in patients for total knee arthroplasty.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, 20 patients were treated with LIA of the knee for primary total knee arthroplasty. Plasma samples were taken at 20, 40, 60, 90, 120, 240, 360 min and at 24 h after tourniquet release, in which total and unbound ropivacaine concentrations were determined.

Results

Results are given as median [IQR]. Highest ropivacaine concentration (Cmax) was 1.06 μg/ml [0.34]; highest unbound ropivacaine concentration (Cu max) was 0.09 μg/ml [0.05]. The corresponding time to reach the maximum concentration for total ropivacaine was 312 min [120] after tourniquet release, and for the unbound fraction 265 [110] min after tourniquet release.

Conclusion

Although great inter‐individual variability was found between the maximum ropivacaine concentrations, both maximum total and unbound serum concentrations of ropivacaine remained well below the assumed systemic toxic thresholds of 4.3 and 0.56 μg/ml.
Cellular GABAergic Neuroactive Steroid (3α,5α)‐3‐Hydroxy‐Pregnan‐20‐One (3α,5α‐THP) Immunostaining Levels Are Increased in the Ventral Tegmental Area of Human Alcohol Use Disorder Patients: A Postmortem Study
Authors: Hasirci Ahmet Sait , Maldonado‐Devincci Antoniette M. , Beattie Matthew C. , O'Buckley Todd K. , Morrow A. Leslie
Published: January 2017

Background

The GABAergic neuroactive steroid (3α,5α)‐3‐hydroxy‐pregnan‐20‐one (3α,5α‐THP; allopregnanolone) enhances GABAergic activity and produces subjective effects similar to ethanol (EtOH). The effect of chronic alcohol exposure on 3α,5α‐THP concentrations has been studied in mouse, rat, and monkey limbic brain areas. Chronic EtOH exposure produced divergent brain region and cell‐specific changes in 3α,5α‐THP concentrations in animal studies. However, 3α,5α‐THP levels in similar human brain regions have never been examined in individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Therefore, we used immunohistochemistry (IHC) to examine 3α,5α‐THP levels in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), substantia nigra pars medialis (SNM), and amygdala of human postmortem brains of patients diagnosed with AUD compared with social drinkers. The effects of sex and liver disease on 3α,5α‐THP concentrations were examined in the aforementioned brain regions.

Methods

Human postmortem brains of AUD patients and age‐matched controls were obtained from the New South Wales Brain Tissue Resource Center. IHC was performed using anti‐3α,5α‐THP antibody on formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded brain sections to detect cellular 3α,5α‐THP levels. Immunoreactivity was analyzed by pixel density/mm2 for the comparison between AUD patients and controls.

Results

3α,5α‐THP immunoreactivity was increased by 23.2 ± 9% in the VTA of AUD patients compared with age‐matched controls (p = 0.014). Moreover, a 29.6 ± 10% increase in 3α,5α‐THP immunoreactivity was observed in the SNM of male AUD patients compared with male controls (p < 0.01), but not in female subjects. 3α,5α‐THP immunoreactivity in the VTA and SNM regions did not differ between noncirrhotic and cirrhotic AUD patients. A sex difference in 3α,5α‐THP immunoreactivity (female 51 ± 18% greater than male) was observed among control subjects in the SNM, but no other brain region. 3α,5α‐THP immunoreactivity in the basolateral amygdala and lateral amygdala was negatively correlated with the length of the tissue fixation time as well as the age of the subjects, precluding assessment of the effect of AUD.

Conclusions

Cellular 3α,5α‐THP levels in VTA are increased in human AUD patients, an effect that is likely independent of sex and liver disease. The differences between animal models and human studies should be factored into the interpretation of the physiological significance of elevated 3α,5α‐THP levels in humans.
Synthesis and investigation of anticancer potential of radiolabeled naphthalene monoimide bearing imidazolium salt
Authors: Yurt Lambrecht Fatma , Ocakoglu Kasim , Gokhan Colak Suleyman , Alp Ersoz Onur , Er Ozge
Published: January 2017

Imidazolium salts and derivatives have antitumor efficacy and toxic effects in different micro‐organisms. In this study, an imidazolium bromide salt (NMI) was synthesized, and its antitumor potential was investigated by in vitro studies. Radiolabeling of synthesized NMI was carried out by iodogen method using 131I radionuclide. The yield of radiolabeling was determined as 98.5 ± 0.1%. After that, cytotoxicity and intracellular uptake studies were evaluated in various cell lines. The cytotoxicity of NMI was determined as 35, 20, 10, and 1 μm for HEK‐293, PC‐3, CaCo‐2, and MCF‐7 cells, respectively. In addition, the intracellular uptake of 131I‐NMI was investigated in the cell lines, and the uptake was significantly found as 4 hr for MCF‐7 and 6 hr for PC‐3. In future studies, antitumor efficacy of 131I‐NMI on tumor‐bearing animal model might be studied in light of these results.
Broadening the phenotypic spectrum of POP1‐skeletal dysplasias: identification of POP1 mutations in a mild and severe skeletal dysplasia
Authors: Barraza‐García J. , Rivera‐Pedroza C.I. , Hisado‐Oliva A. , Belinchón‐Martínez A. , Sentchordi‐Montané L. , Duncan E.L. , Clark G.R. , del Pozo A. , Ibáñez‐Garikano K. , Offiah A. , Prieto‐Matos P. , Cormier‐Daire V. , Heath K.E.
Published: January 2017

Processing of Precursor 1 (POP1) is a large protein common to the ribonuclease‐mitochondrial RNA processing (RNase‐MRP) and RNase‐P (RMRP) endoribonucleoprotein complexes. Although its precise function is unknown, it appears to participate in the assembly or stability of both complexes. Numerous RMRP mutations have been reported in individuals with cartilage‐hair hypoplasia (CHH) but, to date, only three POP1 mutations have been described in two families with features similar to anauxetic dysplasia (AD). We present two further individuals, one with severe short stature and a relatively mild skeletal dysplasia and another in whom AD was suspected. Biallelic POP1 mutations were identified in both. A missense mutation and a novel single base deletion were detected in proband 1, p.[Pro582Ser]:[Glu870fs*5]. Markedly reduced abundance of RMRP and elevated levels of pre5.8s rRNA was observed. In proband 2, a homozygous novel POP1 mutation was identified, p.[(Asp511Tyr)];[(Asp511Tyr)]. These two individuals show the phenotypic extremes in the clinical presentation of POP1‐dysplasias. Although CHH and other skeletal dysplasias caused by mutations in RMRP or POP1 are commonly cited as ribosomal biogenesis disorders, recent studies question this assumption. We discuss the past and present knowledge about the function of the RMRP complex in skeletal development.
Epidermal psoriasiform hyperplasia, an unrecognized sign of folliculitis decalvans: A histological study of 26 patients
Authors: Matard Bruno , Cavelier‐Balloy Benedicte , Reygagne Pascal
Published: January 2017

Background

Follicular hyperkeratosis along with hyperplasia of the follicular and interfollicular epithelia are major histopathological characteristics of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). The presence of an occasional thickening of lesional skin in some folliculitis decalvans (FD) patients and histological similarities between FD and HS led us to look for epidermal hyperplasia and follicular hyperkeratosis in FD patients.

Patients and Method

We performed a retrospective histological analysis of 26 patients with FD.

Objective

We sought to find out whether the presence of hyperplasia of the interfollicular epidermis and of the follicular epithelia could be verified in FD, with reference to the work of von Laffert et al. concerning HS.

Results

The main quantitative and qualitative data were: follicular hyperkeratosis (77%), hyperplasia of the interfollicular epidermis (92%) with a psoriasiform aspect (88%), atrophy of the follicular epithelia (85%), plasma cells in infiltrate (92%) in large quantities (42%), follicular microcysts (60%), atrophy of the sebaceous glands (85%) and polytrichia (54%).

Conclusion

Epidermal hyperplasia, sometimes psoriasiform and follicular microcysts, are significant histological signs of FD, which have been ignored until now although they seem very common.
Training in endoscopic ultrasonography: An Asian perspective
Authors: Wong Jennie Y. Y. , Kongkam Pradermchai , Ho Khek Yu
Published: January 2017

Training of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) in Asia faces two major challenges: (i) the ever‐increasing demand for skills to handle a growing range of interventional EUS procedures; and (ii) a continual shortage of EUS training programs. As the therapeutic application of EUS continues to expand, the need to train more new endosonographers and upgrade skills of existing ones has become more critical than ever before. A formal fellowship to acquire EUS knowledge and skills in an advanced endoscopy center has always been perceived as the best way of training novices, but such opportunities remain limited in most Asian countries. To keep up with the pace of development in EUS, more short‐term EUS programs have been conducted across Asia in recent years. Such programs are generally intensive and may combine didactic lectures, live‐case demonstrations, and hands‐on training on phantoms, or live animal models for teaching. Although not as rigorous as conventional full‐time EUS fellowships, such short‐term programs are not necessarily inferior in quality. With courses offered from basic to advanced levels, and at regular intervals, busy practising endoscopists have the flexibility to attend the course that best matches their individual levels of experience, learn at their own pace and acquire EUS knowledge and skills over as many courses as desired. This open‐ended progressive learning model is more agile than established fixed‐term learning models and is expected to adapt better to future needs.
Investigation of fatigue crack growth rate in CARALL, ARALL and GLARE
Authors: Asghar W , Nasir M A , Qayyum F , Shah M , Azeem M , Nauman S , Khushnood S
Published: January 2017

Fibre metal laminates (FMLs) are being used to manufacture many structural components in aerospace industry because of their very high strength to weight ratios, yet the exact model for estimating fatigue crack propagation in FMLs cannot be developed because of many variable parameters affecting it. In this research, tensile strength, fatigue life and fracture toughness values of 2/1 configuration carbon reinforced aluminium laminate (CARALL), aramid reinforced aluminium laminate and glass laminate aluminium reinforced epoxy specimens have been investigated. Mechanical, chemical and electrochemical surface treatments were applied to AA 1050 face sheets to improve the adhesive properties of the laminates. The specimens were prepared using vacuum assisted resin transfer moulding technique and were cut to desired shapes. Fatigue tests were conducted on centre notched specimens according to ASTM Standard E399. Real time material data and properties of adhesive were used in definition of numerical simulation model to obtain the values of stress intensity factor at different crack lengths. It was observed that CARALL shows very superior tensile and fatigue strength because of stress distribution during failure. Numerical simulation model developed in this research accurately predicts fracture toughness of aramid reinforced aluminium laminate, CARALL and glass laminate aluminium reinforced epoxy with less than 2% error. An empirical analytical model using experimental data obtained during research was developed which accurately predicts the trend of FMLs fatigue life.
Association of AKAP6 and MIR2113 with cognitive performance in a population‐based sample of older adults
Authors: Andrews S. J. , Das D. , Anstey K. J. , Easteal S.
Published: January 2017

Genetic factors make a substantial contribution to inter‐individual variability in cognitive function. A recent meta‐analysis of genome‐wide association studies identified two loci, AKAP6 and MIR2113, that are associated with general cognitive function. Here, we extend this previous research by investigating the association of MIR2113 and AKAP6 with baseline and longitudinal non‐linear change across a broad spectrum of cognitive domains in a community‐based cohort of older adults without dementia. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), MIR211‐rs10457441 and AKAP6‐rs17522122 were genotyped in 1570 non‐demented older Australians of European ancestry, who were examined up to 4 times over 12 years. Linear mixed effects models were used to examine the association between AKAP6 and MIR2113 with cognitive performance in episodic memory, working memory, vocabulary, perceptual speed and reaction time at baseline and with linear and quadratic rates of change. AKAP6‐rs17522122*T was associated with worse baseline performance in episodic memory, working memory, vocabulary and perceptual speed, but it was not associated with cognitive change in any domain. MIR2113‐rs10457441*T was associated with accelerated decline in episodic memory. No other associations with baseline cognitive performance or with linear or quadratic rate or cognitive changes were observed for this SNP. These results confirm the previous finding that AKAP6 is associated with performance across multiple cognitive domains at baseline but not with cognitive decline, while MIR2113 primarily affects the rate at which memory declines over time.
An oral health and function screening tool for nursing personnel of long‐term care facilities to identify the need for dentist referral without preliminary training
Authors: Tsukada Shigemi , Ito Kayoko , Stegaroiu Roxana , Shibata Satoko , Ohuchi Akitsugu
Published: January 2017

Objective

To develop and evaluate, with a dentist as gold standard, an oral health screening tool, the Oral Health Screening Tool for Nursing Personnel (OHSTNP), that assists long‐term care facility nursing staff without preliminary training in identifying resident need for dentist referral.

Methods

Using an OHSTNP adapted from previous screening tools (Chalmers, J Gerontol Nurs, 2004, 30, 5; Tsukada, J Jpn Soc Dent Hyg, 2012, 7, 43), one of four nurses, one of eight caregivers and a dentist with 15 years’ experience screened the oral health/function of 57 long‐term care facility residents. The OHSTNP included a question on the need and reasons for dentist referral. Tool reliability and validity were evaluated by determining inter‐rater agreement (Cohen's kappa), sensitivity, specificity and accuracy.

Results

For dentist‐nurse and dentist‐caregiver pairs, kappa was statistically significant and sensitivity was high (≥0.67, nurses; ≥0.71, caregivers) for natural teeth, dentures and oral function‐related categories. Specificity for all categories was ≥0.69. Screening by nurses and caregivers for need for referral had low sensitivity (0.05, 0.23), accuracy (0.25, 0.39) and kappa (−0.01, 0.08). However, if nursing staff had been instructed to request a dentist referral in case of alterations in natural teeth/dentures or severe alterations in any other category, the estimated values increased to a sensitivity of 0.86 and 0.91, an accuracy of 0.75 and 0.82 and a kappa of 0.26 and 0.47.

Conclusions

OHSTNP was reliable and valid for screening natural teeth, denture conditions and oral functions. Supplementary guidelines improved estimates of OHSTNP sensitivity, accuracy and reliability for nurse/caregiver assessment of resident need for dentist referral.
Wetting and adhesion evaluation of cosmetic ingredients and products: correlation of in vitro–in vivo contact angle measurements
Authors: Capra P. , Musitelli G. , Perugini P.
Published: January 2017

Objective

The aim of this work was to use the contact angle measurement in order to predict the behaviour of ingredients and finished cosmetic products on skin to improve skin feel and product texture.

Method

Different classes of cosmetic ingredients and formulations were evaluated. The contact angle measurements were carried out by the sessile drop method using an apparatus, designed and set up in laboratory. Glass, Teflon and human skin were the reference substrates. In a preliminary phase, TEWL parameter, sebum content and hydration of human skin were measured to set up method.

Results

Data demonstrated that glass substrate may be used as replacement of the skin:critical surface tension of skin and glass were about of 27 and 31 dyne cm−1, respectively. Non‐ionic surfactant with increasing HLB was evaluated: a correlation between contact angle measured and HLB was not observed because of different and complex molecular structure. In detail, ethylhexyl hydroxystearate (θglass = 17.1°) showed lower contact angle value with respect to Polysorbate 20 (θglass = 28.1°). Sodium laureth sulphate and stearalkonium chloride were also evaluated: anionic molecule showed more affinity for glass with respect to Teflon (θglass = 21.7° and θTeflon = 52.3°). Lipids and silicones showed different affinity for substrate according to hydrophilic groups and hydrocarbon chain: contact angles of silicones remained unchanged independently from substrate. Finished cosmetic products (O/W, W/O emulsions, cleansing oil, dry skin oil) showed different profiles according to surfactant and its affinity for continuous phase of the formulation. Comparing the values of the contact angle on skin of non‐ionic surfactants, as ethylhexyl hydroxystearate and Polysorbate 20, they showed values lower (near to zero) than ones of sodium laureth sulphate and Stearalkonium Chloride (21.7° and 66.8°, respectively). Finally, finished cosmetic products tested on human skin showed different profile: corresponded contact angle values were less than 20°. The product tended to be quickly adsorbed on human skin.

Conclusion

Systematic study carried out by evaluating the wettability of single cosmetic ingredients on different substrates allowed to find correlations between the use of certain ingredients and the final performance of a cosmetic product.
Physicochemical characterisation, digestibility and anticonstipation activity of some high‐resistant untraditional starches from zingiberaceae plants
Authors: Mao Xinhui , Huang Hanhan , Li Xia , Wang Tingting , Chen Xuetao , Gao Wenyuan
Published: January 2017

To find new starch sources with particular characteristics, five untraditional starches from zingiberaceae plants were studied about their physicochemical properties, digestibility and anticonstipation activity and compared with starches from traditional sources (potato and corn). All the five starches presented the shape of triangular, with visible thin sheet, which were significantly different from conventional sources. The crystal type of these five starches was B‐type pattern. Swelling power at 75 °C was negatively correlated with crystallinity. There was no significant difference in amylose content between starches from rhizome and tuber of Curcuma phaeocaulis Val., while they displayed significant variability in RS content. Starches from rhizome of Curcuma kwangsiensis, Curcuma wenyujin, Curcuma phaeocaulis Val. and Curcuma longa L. possessed much higher resistant starch content (range from 87.06% to 95.40%) and could better prevent constipation than potato and corn starches, which made them potential for managing diabetes and improving defecation conditions.
Polyphenolic composition and in vitro antioxidant activities of native‐ and tannase‐treated green tea extracts
Authors: Ong Chong‐Boon , Annuar Mohamad S. M.
Published: January 2017

The antioxidant activities of native‐ and tannase‐treated green tea extracts along with their major polyphenol components were investigated. The polyphenolic content and composition of the tea before and after tannase treatment were determined by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC‐MS). Approximately 99% of the (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and (−)‐epicatechin gallate (ECG) in green tea extract were converted by tannase to (−)‐epigallocatechin (EGC) and (−)‐epicatechin (EC), respectively, after 30 min. Biotransformed green tea exhibited a significantly higher DPPH˙ radical scavenging activities than native green tea (EC50 value of 0.024 ± 0.001 and 0.044 ± 0.001 mg mL−1, respectively). Kinetic parameters such as scavenging rate and stoichiometry were calculated. The rate of DPPH˙ radical scavenging activities for tannase‐treated green tea extract was shown to be higher than native green tea extract.
Lifestyle changes in heart transplant recipients
Authors: Wu Yi‐Chen , Tung Heng‐Hsin , Lai Fu‐Chih , Wei Jeng , Liang Shu‐Yuan , Wu Shu‐Fang
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this study was to understand the lifestyle; examine the relationships among lifestyle, medical factors, and stress status; and determine the predictors of better lifestyle in heart transplant recipients in Taiwan. A prospective design with convenience sampling was used. Data were collected through the Health‐Promoting Lifestyle Profile‐II and demographic questionnaires, which included personal information, stress status, and medical information. Pearson correlations, 1‐way analysis of variance, independent t tests, paired t tests, and hierarchical regression were used to analyze the factors related to better lifestyle. A total of 80 heart transplant recipients participated. The mean score for lifestyle decreased from baseline to 3 months and was even lower at 6 months. Nevertheless, the trend for some participants was the opposite—their lifestyle improved over the 6‐month period after baseline. Notably, the trend for each of the 6 subscales was not consistent with the mean of the total score. Stress status accounted for 12.8% of lifestyle. When stress status was combined with family income and creatinine, the 3 factors accounted for 32.2% of lifestyle. This study demonstrated that maintenance of a healthy lifestyle fluctuates after transplantation. Demographic factors and stress status can help to identify people who are more likely to have a poor lifestyle.
Boosting of post‐exposure human T‐cell and B‐cell recall responses in vivo by Burkholderia pseudomallei‐related proteins
Authors: Nithichanon Arnone , Gourlay Louise J. , Bancroft Gregory J. , Ato Manabu , Takahashi Yoshimasa , Lertmemongkolchai Ganjana
Published: January 2017

Burkholderia pseudomallei is the causative agent of melioidosis, an infectious disease with high incidence and mortality in South East Asia and northern Australia. To date there is no protective vaccine and antibiotic treatment is prolonged and not always effective. Most people living in endemic areas have been exposed to the bacteria and have developed some immunity, which may have helped to prevent disease. Here, we used a humanized mouse model (hu‐PBL‐SCID), reconstituted with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells from seropositive donors, to illustrate the potential of three known antigens (FliC, OmpA and N‐PilO2) for boosting both T‐cell and B‐cell immune responses. All three antigens boosted the production of specific antibodies in vivo, and increased the number of antibody and interferon‐γ‐secreting cells, and induced antibody affinity maturation. Moreover, antigen‐specific antibodies isolated from either seropositive individuals or boosted mice, were found to enhance phagocytosis and oxidative burst activities from human polymorphonuclear cells. Our study demonstrates that FliC, OmpA and N‐PilO2 can stimulate human memory T and B cells and highlight the potential of the hu‐PBL‐SCID system for screening and evaluation of novel protein antigens for inclusion in future vaccine trials against melioidosis.
Precise observation of C. elegans dynamic behaviours under controlled thermal stimulus using a mobile phone–based microscope
Authors: YOON T. , SHIN D.‐M. , KIM S. , LEE S. , LEE T.G. , KIM K.
Published: January 2017

We investigated the temperature‐dependent locomotion of Caenorhabditis elegans by using the mobile phone–based microscope. We developed the customized imaging system with mini incubator and smartphone to effectively control the thermal stimulation for precisely observing the temperature‐dependent locomotory behaviours of C. elegans. Using the mobile phone–based microscope, we successfully followed the long‐term progress of specimens of C. elegans in real time as they hatched and explored their temperature‐dependent locomotory behaviour. We are convinced that the mobile phone–based microscope is a useful device for real time and long‐term observations of biological samples during incubation, and can make it possible to carry out live observations via wireless communications regardless of location. In addition, this microscope has the potential for widespread use owing to its low cost and compact design.
Effect of dietary dry matter intake on endogenous nitrogen flows in growing lambs
Authors: Gao W. , Gao X. , Chen A. , Zhang F. , Chen D. , Liu C.
Published: January 2017

The effect of dietary dry matter intake (DMI) on endogenous nitrogen (N) flows at different part of the digestive tract of growing lambs was determined using a 15N isotope dilution technique. Three Kazakh male lambs (30 ± 2.75 kg of body weights and 4 months old, average daily gain 200 g/day) were fitted with ruminal, duodenal and ileal cannulae and raised in metabolic cage individually. The experiment was conducted in a 3 × 3 Latin square design with three lambs, three DMI levels (1100, 920 and 736 g/day respectively) and three periods. Each period lasted 18 days, consisting of 10 days for adaptation, 8 days for the continuous infusion of l‐[15N]leucine, during which the intestinal flow of N and 15N enrichment were determined. The total endogenous secretions in the forestomach (Sfs) were decreased (p = 0.0512) with increased level of DMI. On the contrary, endogenous nitrogen (EN) secretions into the small intestine (Si) increased (p = 0.0249) significantly with the high level of DMI (HI) group compared with that of low level of DMI (LI). Total absorption from forestomach was reduced (p = 0.0121) with increased level of DMI, whereas total absorption from small intestine for HI group increased (p = 0.0116) significantly compared with that of LI treatment. The real digestibility of N in the rumen accompanied with the increase in feed intake is decreased (p = 0.081). In contrast, there were no effects of DMI level on the computed real digestibility of N across both small intestine and whole tract. The results of this study indicate that the total flows of EN at duodenum may be unaffected by the level of DMI; however, the EN flow at ileal level increased from 12% to 37% with the increase in DMI level, corresponding to 33% of total N flow at ileum.
Effects of corn distillers dried grains with solubles on performance, oxidative status, intestinal immunity and meat quality of Chinese Yellow broilers
Authors: Ruan D. , Jiang S. Q. , Hu Y. J. , Ding F. Y. , Fan Q. L. , Chen F. , Lin X. J. , Li L. , Wang Y.
Published: January 2017

The study assessed the effects of different dietary levels of corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) on performance, oxidation status, intestinal immunity and meat quality in Chinese Yellow broilers aged from 1 to 63 days. Lingnan male hatchings (1440) were randomly assigned to six treatments, each consisting of six replicates of 40 birds. The basal diet (I) was a typical corn–soya bean ration while the experimental diets (II to VI) partially substituted corn DDGS for soya bean meal. The level of substitution in starter, grower and finisher diets was as follows: II, 2%, 4% then 6%; III, 4%, 8% then 12%; IV, 6%, 12% then 18%; V, 8%, 16% then 24%; VI, 10%, 20% then 30%. Average daily feed intake and feed‐to‐gain ratio increased as linear responses to corn DDGS substitution from 1 to 21 days (p < 0.001). The plasma content of triglycerides and liver content of malondialdehyde increased as linear responses to corn DDGS substitution (p < 0.05). There was a linear decrease (p < 0.001) in jejunal abundance of IL‐6 transcripts, with a substantial reduction to approximately 25% those of broilers fed the control diet, and a quadratic effect existed for secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) (p < 0.001). In addition, increased dietary corn DDGS caused favourable changes in selected functional properties of the meat: drip loss at 24 and 96 h increased as linear response to corn DDGS substitution (p < 0.001). Further, meat colour L* values decreased and a* values increased linearly in response to increasing corn DDGS (p < 0.05). In conclusion, diet IV (6%, 12% then 18% corn DDGS) in Chinese Yellow broiler diets had no negative effects on performance, antioxidant capacity and meat quality. This level of inclusion also appeared to promote sIgA secretion and enhance anti‐inflammatory status.
Addressing barriers to health: Experiences of breastfeeding mothers after returning to work
Authors: Valizadeh Sousan , Hosseinzadeh Mina , Mohammadi Eesa , Hassankhani Hadi , M. Fooladi Marjaneh , Schmied Virginia
Published: January 2017

Abstract

Breastfeeding mothers returning to work often feel exhausted as they must feed on demand and attend to family and employment responsibilities, leading to concerns for their personal health. This study was prompted by a desire to understand and identify barriers to mothers' health. We describe the experiences of 12 Iranian breastfeeding and employed mothers through in‐depth and semi‐structured interviews and thematic analysis. Two main themes emerged: (i) working and mothering alone and (ii) facing concerns about health. The findings highlight the need for a support system for breastfeeding mothers within the family and in the workplace. Family‐friendly policies targeting mothers' and employers' views are needed to support working mothers and promote breastfeeding.
Phosphate Binders and Targets Over Decades: Do We have it Right Now?
Authors: Marcuccilli Morgan , Chonchol Michel , Jovanovich Anna
Published: January 2017

In advanced renal disease, the kidney is unable to maintain phosphate balance due to decreased urinary excretion as well as the imbalance of the bone metabolic axis. It is well established that hyperphosphatemia is associated with increased cardiovascular events and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, there are no randomized controlled trials that demonstrate a clear benefit on hard outcomes in lowering serum phosphate levels to recommended targets in the CKD or dialysis population. In addition, while calcium‐based phosphate binders have traditionally been the standard of care in the treatment of hyperphosphatemia, data regarding the increased risk of vascular mineralization continues to emerge. Clinicians continue to search for new phosphate‐lowering therapies as well as investigate novel nutritional perspectives. The Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes is currently revising the guidelines on phosphate goals in CKD. This review will outline the history of phosphate targets and phosphate binders, and explore innovative phosphate‐lowering therapies. Based on current data, clinicians moving forward should continue to treat end‐stage renal disease patients with hyperphosphatemia based on individual risk factors for vascular mineralization.
The supergene origin of ruthenian hexaferrum in Ni‐laterites
Authors: Aiglsperger Thomas , Proenza Joaquín A. , Galí Salvador , Rius Jordi , Longo Francisco , Domènech Cristina
Published: January 2017

For two decades, the nature of Fe‐rich, oxygen‐bearing, Ru–Os compounds found in the supergene environment has been debated. Ru–Os–Fe‐oxides and nano‐intergrowths of ruthenium with magnetite have been proposed. We applied FE‐SEM, EMPA, μ‐Raman spectroscopy and synchrotron tts‐μXRD to Ru–Os–Fe compounds recovered from Ni‐laterites from the Dominican Republic. The results demonstrate that a significant portion of Fe exists in a common structure with the Ru–Os alloy, that is, ruthenian hexaferrum. This mineral occurs both as nanoparticles and as micrometric patches within a matrix of Fe‐oxide(s). Our data suggest that supergene ruthenian hexaferrum with a (Ru0.4(Os,Ir)0.1Fe0.5)Ʃ1.0 stoichiometry represents the most advanced weathering product of primary laurite within Ni‐laterites from the Dominican Republic.
Phenotiki: an open software and hardware platform for affordable and easy image‐based phenotyping of rosette‐shaped plants
Authors: Minervini Massimo , Giuffrida Mario V. , Perata Pierdomenico , Tsaftaris Sotirios A.
Published: January 2017

Phenotyping is important to understand plant biology, but current solutions are costly, not versatile or are difficult to deploy. To solve this problem, we present Phenotiki, an affordable system for plant phenotyping that, relying on off‐the‐shelf parts, provides an easy to install and maintain platform, offering an out‐of‐box experience for a well‐established phenotyping need: imaging rosette‐shaped plants. The accompanying software (with available source code) processes data originating from our device seamlessly and automatically. Our software relies on machine learning to devise robust algorithms, and includes an automated leaf count obtained from 2D images without the need of depth (3D). Our affordable device (~€200) can be deployed in growth chambers or greenhouse to acquire optical 2D images of approximately up to 60 adult Arabidopsis rosettes concurrently. Data from the device are processed remotely on a workstation or via a cloud application (based on CyVerse). In this paper, we present a proof‐of‐concept validation experiment on top‐view images of 24 Arabidopsis plants in a combination of genotypes that has not been compared previously. Phenotypic analysis with respect to morphology, growth, color and leaf count has not been performed comprehensively before now. We confirm the findings of others on some of the extracted traits, showing that we can phenotype at reduced cost. We also perform extensive validations with external measurements and with higher fidelity equipment, and find no loss in statistical accuracy when we use the affordable setting that we propose. Device set‐up instructions and analysis software are publicly available ( http://phenotiki.com).
Exogenous lysophospholipids with large head groups perturb clathrin‐mediated endocytosis
Authors: Ailte Ieva , Lingelem Anne Berit D. , Kvalvaag Audun S. , Kavaliauskiene Simona , Brech Andreas , Koster Gerbrand , Dommersnes Paul G. , Bergan Jonas , Skotland Tore , Sandvig Kirsten
Published: January 2017

In this study, we have investigated how clathrin‐dependent endocytosis is affected by exogenously added lysophospholipids (LPLs). Addition of LPLs with large head groups strongly inhibits transferrin (Tf) endocytosis in various cell lines, while LPLs with small head groups do not. Electron and total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy (EM and TIRF) reveal that treatment with lysophosphatidylinositol (LPI) with the fatty acyl group C18:0 leads to reduced numbers of invaginated clathrin‐coated pits (CCPs) at the plasma membrane, fewer endocytic events per membrane area and increased lifetime of CCPs. Also, endocytosis of Tf becomes dependent on actin upon LPI treatment. Thus, our results demonstrate that one can regulate the kinetics and properties of clathrin‐dependent endocytosis by addition of LPLs in a head group size‐ and fatty acyl‐dependent manner. Furthermore, studies performed with optical tweezers show that less force is required to pull membrane tubules outwards from the plasma membrane when LPI is added to the cells. The results are in agreement with the notion that insertion of LPLs with large head groups creates a positive membrane curvature which might have a negative impact on events that require plasma membrane invagination, while it may facilitate membrane bending toward the cell exterior.
Concurrent multiple myeloma and mast cell neoplasia in a 13‐year‐old castrated male Maine Coon cat
Authors: Bagwell Jonathan M. , Herd Heather R. , Breshears Melanie A. , Hodges Steven , Rizzi Theresa E.
Published: January 2017

A 13‐year‐old, castrated male Maine Coon cat was presented to Oklahoma State University Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital for yearly echocardiographic examination monitoring hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) diagnosed in 2003. Physical examination revealed a heart murmur and premature beats, likely related to HCM, but was otherwise unremarkable. A biochemistry profile revealed a hyperglobulinemia (6.3 g/dL). Cytologic examination of fine‐needle aspirates from liver and spleen revealed increased numbers of plasma cells and mast cells, confirmed with subsequent histologic examination. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for c‐kit in the spleen and liver showed mast cells predominantly exhibiting type I staining pattern, with moderate numbers exhibiting type II pattern in spleen, and scattered cells exhibiting type II and III patterns in liver. Bone marrow cytology and core biopsy documented approximately 22% plasma cells. Cutaneous masses on the cat's left shoulder and right carpus were cytologically confirmed mast cell tumors. Serum protein electrophoresis with immunofixation confirmed an IgG monoclonal gammopathy. This is an example of 2 hematologic neoplasms occurring simultaneously in a cat. Concurrent pathologies may be overlooked if a single disease is diagnosed and suspected of causing all clinical signs. Both neoplasms were well differentiated, and neoplastic cells could have easily been interpreted as a reactive population had a full workup not been performed. Missing either diagnosis could result in a potentially lethal outcome. Eleven months after diagnoses, the cat was clinically doing well following a splenectomy and oral prednisolone and chlorambucil chemotherapy. Globulins decreased to 4.9 g/dL.
Brucella abortus is Prevalent in Both Humans and Animals in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman A. K. M. A. , Saegerman C. , Berkvens D. , Melzer F. , Neubauer H. , Fretin D. , Abatih E. , Dhand N. , Ward M. P.
Published: January 2017

To determine the role of different Brucella (B.) spp. in Bangladesh, 62 animal samples and 500 human sera were tested. Animal samples from cattle, goats and sheep (including milk, bull semen, vaginal swabs and placentas) were cultured for Brucella spp. Three test‐positive human sera and all animal samples were screened by Brucella genus‐specific real‐time PCR (RT‐PCR), and positive samples were then tested by IS711 RT‐PCR to detect B. abortus and B. melitensis DNA. Only B. abortus DNA was amplified from 13 human and six animal samples. This is the first report describing B. abortus as the aetiological agent of brucellosis in occupationally exposed humans in Bangladesh. Of note is failure to detect B. melitensis DNA, the species most often associated with human brucellosis worldwide. Further studies are required to explore the occurrence of Brucella melitensis in Bangladesh.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Young James
Published: January 2017

International Journal of Social Science Studies (IJSSS) would like to thank the following reviewers for reviewing manuscripts from September 16, 2013, to March 31, 2014. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Many authors, regardless of whether IJSSS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Redfame Publishing appreciates the following reviewers’ rigorous and conscientious efforts for this journal. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review during this period. Remigiusz Janusz Kijak Anna Maria Mouza Patricia Wiener Paulito Valeriano Hilario Michael Brooks Parveen Kaur Shani Bardach Luigia Simona Sica Raymond Chan Federica Palumbo Linda Chernus Mónica Martínez Gómez Joy D. Patton Mariano D. Perelman Zitha Mokomane Jamie Spinney Lee Pugalis Yaghoob Foroutan Maja Gori Ofer Katchergin Nina V Gunnarsson Roberto Franzini Tibaldeo Xue Bai Kimberly Schutte Shahadat Hossain Mei-Se Chien Mohammed Nasarat Laura K Taylor Sudershan Pasupuleti Suman Kasturi Russell Kabir Noraida Endt Suman Kasturi Maria Merino Quinn Keefer Flavia Cangia' Russell Kabir Aprinalistria Aprinalistria Begoña Montero-Fleta
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Young James
Published: January 2017

International Journal of Social Science Studies (IJSSS) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether IJSSS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 5, Number 1Ahmet YıkmışAnastasia PanagakosAntónio CalhaBegoña Montero-FletaE.Ozan AksozEmanuele AchinoHenry PoduthasJosé María Fernandez-CrehuetJulia M. MackK.O. AramideMałgorzata HaładewiczMichael BrooksOluwagbemiga Paul AgboolaPaula HanaszRachita Shrivastava RoySaid AldhafriYanzhe Zhang          James YoungEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of International Journal of Social Science StudiesRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://ijsss.redfame.com
Detecting topographical eye disorders
Authors: Patel Adil , Gouia-Zarrad Rim
Published: January 2017

The goal of this paper is to outline a novel method of detecting topographical eye diseases using a mobile phone. Because the shape of the eye is of concern, its exterior will be evaluated.The description and current implementation of the technique will be discussed, where the keratoconus disease is used as an example. The technique usespictures taken of the eye using the onboard camera, and each one is compared to idealized imagesrendered in the phone. The pictures taken will be compared to the idealized images to search for the presence of the disease.
Practice research partnerships in social work: Making a difference
Authors: Fouché Christa
Published: January 2017

Reviewed by Jane Maidment, University of Canterbury.
Picturing creative approaches to social work research: Using photography to promote social change
Authors: Jarldorn Michele
Published: January 2017

INTRODUCTION: This article argues for the benefits of employing the arts-based method known as photovoice. Drawn from a social work PhD project with 12 South Australian exprisoners, this research aimed to better understand the post-release experiences within the context of a rising prison population and high recidivism rates.METHODS: Participants were given a single-use camera and the research question if you had 15 minutes with a policy maker or politician, what would you want to tell them about your experience? Later, the participants’ narratives were combined with the photographs and used to create an art exhibition with the rationale that images are more likely to resonate with people than words alone.FINDINGS: Using photovoice in this way has the potential to create new knowledge through the process of participants constructing and retelling accounts of their experiences via the medium of photography.CONCLUSION: I propose that the process of turning research into praxis through participatory action-based methods such as photovoice can be a positive, empowering experience for the participants and researchers.
Critical and creative research methods in social work
Authors: Bryant Lia
Published: January 2017

Reviewed by Liz Beddoe, University of Auckland.
Challenges in professional supervision: Current themes and models for practice
Authors: Beddoe Liz , Davys Allyson
Published: January 2017

Revieed by Leisa Moorehouse, Contractor and Educator.
Bilateral indwelling pleural catheter for hepatic hydrothorax
Authors: D'Amato Rossella , Eiroa González Luisa E , Hernández Méndez Ana Isabel
Published: January 2017

A 68-year-old man with alcoholic liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension was admitted due to ascites. Bilateral severe hepatic hydrothorax did not resolve despite sodium restriction, and diuretic treatment, requiring repeated thoracentesis for relief of dyspnoea. Curative options, as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt and liver transplantation were both contraindicated. An attempt of pleurodesis was ineffective. Bilateral insertion of tunnelled pleural catheter allowed symptom control and home discharge. After 6 months, bilateral stable pleurodesis has been achieved and patient is still free from dyspnoea.
Prolonged indirect hyperbilirubinemia in a moderately preterm boy with Mediterranean glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and glutathioneS-transferase Mu 1 null mutations
Authors: Al-Abdi Sameer Yaseen
Published: January 2017

A 33-week gestation boy with Mediterranean glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) and a glutathioneS-transferase Mu 1 null mutations (GSTM1*0/*0) developed prolonged indirect hyperbilirubinemia (PIH). He had no laboratory evidence of haemolysis or infection, and no exposure to oxidising agents. He has two full-term older brothers who have no history of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. One brother, who was exclusively breast fed, has only Mediterranean G6PD and the other has only GSTM1*0/*0. The three boys have no mutation in the uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 gene. This suggests that a combination of all or any two of prematurity, G6PD deficiency and GSTM1*0/*0 is a possible risk factor for PIH. However, this remains to be confirmed.