bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining the implementation of clinical practice guidelines for the management of adult cancers: A mixed methods study
Authors: Urquhart Robin , Woodside Hillary , Kendell Cynthia , Porter Geoff A.
Published: November 2018

Rationale, aims, and objectives

Focusing on the implementation of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) for the management of adult cancers, the objectives of this study were to (a) describe the intrinsic elements known to influence CPG use; (b) identify the ways in which CPGs are implemented; and (c) explore how CPG characteristics and contextual factors influence implementation and use.

Methods

We conducted a sequential mixed methods study. First, we performed a content analysis of all CPGs developed and approved for the management of adult cancers in Nova Scotia, Canada, from 2005 to 2015. CPGs were examined for the presence of 22 elements known to influence CPG use. Next, we conducted semistructured interviews with CPG developers and end users. Participants were purposively sampled, based on the findings of the content analysis. All interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed by two researchers using the Framework Method.

Results

CPGs (n = 20) demonstrated large variation with respect to elements shown to influence CPG use. For example, 85% included content related to individualization and objectives. Yet no CPGs (0%) had journal or patient versions; discussed the education, training, or competencies needed to deliver recommendations; contained an explicit statement on anticipated work changes, or on potential direct or productivity costs; or identified barriers or facilitators that might influence CPG adoption. Interview data from CPG developers (n = 4) and users (n = 6) revealed five themes related to CPG implementation and use: (a) lack of consistency in CPG development; (b) timing and nature of stakeholder engagement; (c) credibility of the CPG development process and final CPGs; (d) limited understanding of implementation as an active process; and (e) factors at organizational and system levels influence CPG implementation and use.

Conclusions

This mixed methods study provides complementary data that may help inform more effective CPG implementation efforts and optimize their use in practice.
Influence of contextual factors on quality of primary care in children with asthma
Authors: Ingemansson Maria , Jonsson Marina , Henriksson Peter , Hedlin Gunilla , Kull Inger , Wikström Jonsson Eva , Krakau Ingvar , Kiessling Anna
Published: November 2018

Objective

Asthma is a common chronic disease among children, quality assurance is thus important. Adherence to pre‐specified quality indicators of practice guidelines could be used to assess the quality of asthma care. The aim was to estimate which contextual factors that had an influence on the primary health care centres (PHCs) adherence to the quality indicators as stated in the practice guidelines.

Method

A pragmatic cross‐sectional study was performed comprising 14 PHCs in Sweden. Included contextual factors were socio‐demographic characteristics, organizational characteristics, and indicators regarding engagement in asthma care. Documentation on adherence to the quality indicators was retrieved from the medical health care records. Quality indicators included documentation of history of allergy and risk factors, diagnostics and patient support performed, and pharmacological treatment. To score adherence, a composite quality indicator (CQI) was computed for each PHC. A multivariable regression analysis was performed by orthogonal projection to latent structures (OPLS). By this analysis, the relationship between the result variable (CQI) and 26 pre‐specified contextual factors was assessed.

Results

There was a wide variation of CQI between the PHCs. The OPLS analysis identified that 10 of the contextual factors influenced CQI. The most pronounced influences were found in more time scheduled for asthma care, a lower age‐limit for performing spirometry, a lower duty‐grade for general practitioners, and a higher activity at asthma educational seminars. We found no influence of socio‐demographic contextual factors.

Conclusion

We found that some of the contextual factors at the PHCs influenced the quality of performed care. Evidence‐based care in paediatric asthma may thus be presumed to be facilitated by allocating time, by improving interprofessional collaboration, and by creating structures and opportunities for commitment to asthma care.
Retracted: Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in different types of raw milk and traditional dairy product samples
Authors: Alipour Mahtab , Rahimi Ebrahim , Shakerian Amir
Published: November 2018

The current investigation was done to examine the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in raw milk and traditional dairy samples. Eight‐hundred and eighty samples were collected and subjected to DNA extraction and nested PCR for detection of T. gondii B1 and N. caninum Nc5 genes. Seventy out of 880 (7.95%) and 80 out of 880 (10%) samples were positive for T. gondii and N. caninum, respectively. Simultaneous prevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum in studied samples was 4.20%. Prevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum in raw milk and traditional dairy samples were 6% and 10.60% and 10.52% and 9.21%, respectively. Traditional cheese and butter (15.00%) had the highest prevalence of T. gondii. Raw bovine (24.00%) had the highest prevalence of N. caninum. Boost prevalence of parasites in samples revealed an important public health threat regarding the consumption of raw milk and traditional dairy.

Practical applications

Due to the high consumption rate of milk and dairy products, they should have a high microbial quality. Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum are two closely related protozoa with considerable zoonotic importance regarding the consumption of raw milk and traditional dairy products. The current research represents that raw milk and traditional dairy samples may be the sources of T. gondii and N. caninum transmission into the human population.
Clinical and pathological features of combined hepatocellular–cholangiocarcinoma compared with other liver cancers
Authors: Wakizaka Kazuki , Yokoo Hideki , Kamiyama Toshiya , Ohira Masafumi , Kato Koichi , Fujii Yuki , Sugiyama Ko , Okada Naoki , Ohata Takanori , Nagatsu Akihisa , Shimada Shingo , Orimo Tatsuya , Kamachi Hirofumi , Taketomi Akinobu
Published: November 2018

Background and Aim

Combined hepatocellular–cholangiocarcinoma (CHC) is a primary liver cancer containing both hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) elements. Its reported clinicopathological features and prognoses have varied because of its low prevalence. This study aimed to clarify these aspects of CHC.

Methods

We enrolled 28 patients with CHC, 1050 with HCC, and 100 with ICC and compared the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of CHC with HCC and ICC. We also analyzed prognostic factors, recurrence patterns, and management in CHC patients.

Results

The incidences of hepatitis B virus and high α‐fetoprotein and protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonists‐II levels were significantly higher among CHC compared with ICC patients. Multiple tumors were more frequent in CHC compared with the other groups, while vascular invasion and lymph node metastasis were more frequent in the CHC than the HCC group. The 5‐year overall survival and disease‐free survival rates for CHC were 25.1% and 22.6%, respectively. Overall survival was significantly lower than for HCC (P < 0.001) but not ICC (P = 0.152), while disease‐free survival was significantly lower than for HCC and ICC (P = 0.008 and P = 0.005, respectively). Multivariate analysis identified carcinoembryonic antigen levels and tumor size as independent predictors in patients with CHC.

Conclusions

The clinical features of CHC, including sex, hepatitis B virus infection, α‐fetoprotein, and protein induced by vitamin K absence or antagonists‐II levels, were similar to HCC, while its prognosis and pathological features, including vascular invasion and lymph node metastasis, were similar to ICC. Carcinoembryonic antigen levels and tumor size were independent prognostic factors in patients with CHC.
Resource use and cost of annual health checks in primary care for people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Panca M. , Buszewicz M. , Strydom A. , Hassiotis A. , Welch C. A. , Hunter R. M.
Published: November 2018

Background

The annual health check (AHC) programme, as part of a Directed Enhanced Service, offers an incentive to general practitioners in England to conduct health checks for people with intellectual disabilities (IDs). The aim of this analysis was to estimate the impact on health care costs of AHCs in primary care to the National Health Service in England by comparing adults with ID who did or did not have AHCs using data obtained from The Health Improvement Network.

Methods

Two hundred eight records of people with ID from The Health Improvement Network database were analysed. Baseline health care resource use was captured at the time the first AHC was recorded (i.e. index date), or the earliest date after 1 April 2008 for those without an AHC. We examined the volume of resource use and associated costs that occurred at the time AHCs were performed, as well as before and after the index date. We then estimated the impact of AHCs on health care costs.

Results

The average cost of AHC was estimated at £142.57 (95%CI £135.41 to £149.74). Primary, community and secondary health care costs increased significantly after the index date in the no AHC group owing to higher increase in resource utilisation. Regression analysis showed that the expected health care cost for those who have an AHC is 56% higher than for those who did not have an AHC. Age and gender were also associated with increase in expected health care cost.

Conclusion

The level of resource utilisation increased in both (AHC and no AHC) groups after the index date. Although the level of resource use before index date was lower in the no AHC group, it increased after the index date up to almost reaching the level of resource utilisation in the AHC group. Further research is needed to explore if the AHCs are effective in reducing health inequalities.
Direct 3D Printing of Flexible Nasal Prosthesis: Optimized Digital Workflow from Scan to Fit
Authors: Nuseir Amjad , Hatamleh Muhanad Moh'd , Alnazzawi Ahmad , Al‐Rabab'ah Mohammad , Kamel Belal , Jaradat Esraa
Published: November 2018

A maxillofacial prosthesis is a successful treatment modality to restore missing facial parts. Digital technologies and 3D printing are employed in constructing facial prostheses such as ears; however, their application is still partial, and final prostheses are usually manufactured conventionally using stone molds. This report aims to introduce a complete digital workflow to construct a nasal prosthesis and compare it to the conventional workflow of a patient requiring a nasal prosthesis. A computer tomography scan showing the defect was exported to specialized software to create 3D reconstructions of the patient's face and underlying bone. The nose was digitally designed restoring facial esthetics, anatomy, shape, and skin color. Different skin tones were digitally matched to skin tissues adjacent to the defect area using the Spectromatch system. The design was 3D printed in flexible and colorful material at 16 μm resolution using a 3D printer. External color pigmentations were applied to the nose for optimum esthetics, and the prosthetic nose was sealed in silicone and left to heat polymerize for 15 minutes. The prosthetic nose was retained in place using biomedical adhesive, and the patient was pleased with it. This report proposes a complete digital workflow to directly design and fabricate a prosthetic nose of acceptable esthetics. Such a workflow can lead to enhanced prosthesis reproducibility and acceptability and may become an effective treatment option for treatment of patients with facial defects.
Effects of methionine on muscle protein synthesis and degradation pathways in broilers
Authors: Zeitz Johanna O. , Mohrmann Sarah , Käding Stella C. , Devlikamov Murat , Niewalda Ines , Whelan Rose , Helmbrecht Ariane , Eder Klaus
Published: November 2018

This study investigated the hypothesis that supplementation of methionine (Met) to broiler diets increases muscle growth due to regulation of molecular pathways related to protein synthesis and degradation depending on the Met source. Day‐old male Cobb‐500 broilers (n = 240) were phase‐fed three different wheat–soya bean meal‐based basal diets during days 1–10, 11–21 and 22–35. Basal diets (Met‐ group, Met + Cys concentration 15% below NRC recommendations) were supplemented with 0.10% or 0.40% Met either as DL‐Met (DLM) or DL‐2‐hydroxy‐4‐(methylthio) butanoic acid (DL‐HMTBA) (equimolar comparison). Breast muscle weights were lower in the Met‐ group compared to all Met‐supplemented groups and were lower in broilers supplemented with 0.10% of DL‐HMTBA compared to the other groups fed Met‐supplemented diets. However, the expression of genes or relative phosphorylation and thus activation state of proteins involved in the somatotropic axis, the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway of protein synthesis, the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway (UPP) and autophagy–lysosomal pathway of protein degradation, the GCN2/eIF2a pathway involved in the inhibition of protein synthesis and in the myostatin–Smad2/3 pathway involved in myogenesis were not affected by Met source. Feeding diets with suboptimum Met + Cys concentrations, however, decreased expression of GHR and IGF1 in liver and muscle and increased that of MURF1 involved in the UPP in the broiler's muscle at day 10 and 21, while that of FOXO and atrogin‐1 and FOXO phosphorylation remained unaffected. Additionally, suboptimum dietary Met concentrations increased expression of the autophagy‐related genes ATG5 and BECN1 at day 35. Met supplementation neither affected gene expression nor phosphorylation of proteins involved in the GNC2/eIF2a and mTOR pathways. These data indicate that protein synthesis was not affected on the molecular level, while protein degradation was marginally affected by dietary Met dosage.
A review and illustrated description of Musca crassirostris, one of the most neglected haematophagous livestock flies
Authors: Desquesnes M. , Onju S. , Chalermwong P. , Jittapalapong S. , Masmeatathip R.
Published: November 2018

Tabanids, stomoxyine flies, hippoboscids and tsetse flies are the most well‐known brachyceran biting flies of livestock. Only a few other higher Diptera have developed the unique mouthparts required for blood feeding. These neglected blood feeders can also have direct effects on hosts through blood loss, and are likely to contribute to the transmission of pathogens. Musca crassirostris (Diptera: Muscidae) is one of the most abundant of the muscid flies with this haematophagous lifestyle; it is widespread in the Palaearctic, Afrotropical and Oriental regions. The present study reviews and summarizes the biology and morphology of this species, and its potential for impact on animals and humans. The study also provides a fully illustrated description of the fly to facilitate its identification, and reviews information on abundance, with a focus on recent trapping surveys in Thailand. When sampled using traps designed for other biting flies, M. crassirostris appears to be four and 45 times more abundant than stomoxyines and tabanids, respectively. High numbers of M. crassirostris in the vicinity of livestock have also been associated with outbreaks of disease, such as that of a fatal plague in bovine farms in Egypt. This calls for a reconsideration of its potential impacts on livestock economics and health, and thus the development of suitable control methods.
Probiotics in irritable bowel syndrome: Where are we?
Authors: Barbara Giovanni , Cremon Cesare , Azpiroz Fernando
Published: November 2018

We have only recently begun to understand how alterations of the intestinal microbial ecosystem lead to the disruption of host‐microbial interactions and are associated with diseases, including functional gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Although we are still far from understanding the human microbiome, gut microbiota is already a therapeutic target. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit to the host and may represent a therapeutic option for diseases characterized by dysbiosis such as IBS. Meta‐analyses suggest that probiotics provide a therapeutic gain over placebo on global symptoms with a high safety profile in IBS patients. However, the mechanisms by which they provide benefit in IBS remain virtually unknown. In this issue of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, BIO‐25, a multispecies probiotic, did not significantly modify the composition of the fecal microbiota, but interestingly, patients with specific basal features of the intestinal microbial ecosystem improved with treatment. Based on these data, it is tantalizing to speculate that microbiota composition serves as a predictor of the response to probiotic intervention. This mini‐review addresses unresolved issues related to mechanisms through which probiotics may exert their beneficial effects, the biological, as well as clinical predictors of favorable outcomes in IBS and finally considers possible new directions for future studies.
Low glycaemic index diets as an intervention for obesity: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zafar M. I. , Mills K. E. , Zheng J. , Peng M. M. , Ye X. , Chen L. L.
Published: November 2018

Objectives

Low glycaemic index (GI) diets may aid in weight loss by reducing postprandial blood glucose excursions, leading to more stable blood glucose concentrations and therefore a reduction in hunger. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing low GI diets with other diet types.

Methods

We included 101 studies involving 109 study arms and 8,527 participants. We meta‐analysed the studies using a random‐effects model and conducted subgroup analyses and meta‐regression based on control diet, blood glucose control, baseline BMI and dietary GI.

Results

Low GI diets resulted in small but significant improvements in body weight, BMI, LDL and total cholesterol overall, although no individual control diet was significantly different from low GI diets. Studies in people with normal blood glucose who achieved a difference in GI of 20 points or more resulted in a larger reduction in body weight (SMD = −0.26; 95% CIs [−0.43, −0.09]), and total cholesterol (SMD = −0.24; 95% CIs [−0.42, −0.05]) than studies that only achieved a smaller reduction in GI.

Conclusions

Low GI diets, especially diets achieving a substantial decrease in GI, were moderately effective in lowering body weight. However, efforts should be made to increase compliance with low GI diets, in order for them to be effective in people with overweight and obesity.
Right atrial position of a return electrode for bipolar ablation of the left posterosuperior process ventricular tachycardia
Authors: Futyma Piotr , Głuszczyk Ryszard , Futyma Marian , Kułakowski Piotr
Published: November 2018

Introduction

Radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation (RFCA) of ventricular tachycardia (VT) is an effective method of treatment. However, when arrhythmia has ischemic etiology and originates from the posterosuperior process (PSP) of the left ventricular (LV) base, ablation performed with conventional unipolar energy sources may be challenging or impossible.

Method and result

A 67‐year‐old male after six unsuccessful RFCA for highly symptomatic VT originating from PSP of LV base underwent successful RFCA using multiple bipolar RF applications delivered between two electrodes located at LV endocardium and adjacent right atrial sites.

Conclusion

This case report shows that bipolar RFCA can be used for safe and successful treatment of VT originating from deep PSP of LV base.
Effect of antenatal azithromycin for Ureaplasma spp. on neonatal outcome at ≤30 weeks' gestational age
Authors: Kim Sung‐Ha , Chun Jiyoung , Ko Keun‐Hyeok , Sung Tae‐Jung
Published: November 2018

Background

Ureaplasma spp. in the maternal genitourinary tract has come to attention as a cause of preterm labor, spontaneous abortion, chorioamnionitis and adverse outcomes. A few controversies, however, still remain, namely, whether it should be treated aggressively or not. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of maternal azithromycin (AZ) treatment for Ureaplasma colonization on neonatal morbidities including bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD).

Methods

A retrospective case–control study of preterm babies delivered at ≤30 weeks of gestational age (GA) from 2012 to 2016 was conducted. Infants whose mothers had confirmed Ureaplasma colonization and treatment with AZ (m‐AZ, cases) were matched by GA to control subjects whose mothers did not have Ureaplasma colonization. A subgroup analysis (nUU(+), infants with neonatal respiratory Ureaplasma colonization; nUU(–), infants without colonization) was also performed.

Results

Fifty‐five control subjects were matched to 110 m‐AZ subjects. The incidence of preterm premature rupture of membranes (P = 0.003) and of moderate–severe BPD (P = 0.010) was significantly higher in the m‐AZ group. On subgroup analysis with post‐hoc analysis (m‐AZ + nUU(+) [I, n = 55] vs m‐AZ + nUU(–) [II, n = 55] vs controls [n = 55]), the incidence of moderate–severe BPD was significantly different: 26% (I) vs 22% (II) vs 7% (controls), P = 0.033.

Conclusions

Maternal Ureaplasma colonization was associated with moderate–severe BPD despite the use of AZ treatment. In addition, if the neonatal respiratory tract was colonized, then moderate–severe BPD developed even with maternal AZ treatment. Hence, selective antenatal and postnatal treatment of Ureaplasma colonization would be needed to control BPD development.
Influence of idebenone on ram semen quality stored at 4°C
Authors: Eslami Mohsen , Jahan‐Roshan Navid , Farrokhi‐Ardabili Farhad
Published: November 2018

Contents

The current study was designed to investigate the effect of idebenone (Id), an antioxidant on ram semen quality. Semen samples were collected, pooled and diluted in a Tris‐based extender supplemented with 0, 1, 2, 4 and 8 µM idebenone. Computer‐assisted sperm analysis was used to evaluate spermatozoa kinematics. Sperm viability and membrane functionality were assessed respectively, by eosin‐nigrosin staining and HOS test. Biochemical assays were carried out to measure different metabolites in spermatozoa and medium at 0, 24, 48 and 72 hr. Total and forward progressive motility were greater in 1, 2 and 4 µM idebenone treated groups compared to control at 24, 48 and 72 hr time points (p < 0.05). Semen supplementation with Id significantly increased viability and functionality of spermatozoa membrane during storage (p < 0.05). Lower amounts of lipid hydroperoxides in medium and spermatozoa were observed in Id‐treated groups compared to control one at 24 and 48 hr of storage (p < 0.05). Medium and spermatozoa amounts of malondialdehyde and nitric oxide were less in Id 4 µM group compared to the control at 72 hr (p < 0.05). Total antioxidant capacity values and superoxide dismutase activity of spermatozoa and medium were greater in 2 and 4 µM idebenone treated groups in comparison with the control at 72 hr (p < 0.05). Results of the current study indicated that ram semen supplementation with Id at 4 µM level improved quality by ameliorating nitrosative and peroxidative stress, hence could be considered as an antioxidant additive during storage at 4°C.
The shifting role of cities in the global climate change regime: From Paris to Pittsburgh and back?
Authors: Aust Helmut Philipp
Published: November 2018

In recent years cities have asserted themselves as relevant actors in the global climate change regime. International law practice and scholarship has so far only partly embraced this development. The self‐asserting move of cities on the global level has been accompanied by a rhetoric according to which States would have failed to live up to their responsibilities with respect to the fight against climate change. Instead, cities would be well‐positioned to fill this governance gap, in particular through global networks such as ICLEI and C40. This contribution discusses how this narrative is affected by the entry into force of the Paris Agreement on climate change. This was seen as a milestone for the global climate change regime. The Paris Agreement and the decision adopting it are also evidence for a cautious embrace of the importance of cities and other subnational authorities in this field. Yet, new questions arise after the announcement by the United States of their intent to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. This has generated more attention than ever for what cities and other subnational authorities can do in this field. At the same time, the struggle between the US federal executive and US cities is emblematic for a wider debate on the future of the international (legal) order: how will the balance between States as central actors of the international system on the one hand and an increasingly assertive league of cities and subnational authorities be struck?
Machine Learning Methods as a Tool for Predicting Risk of Illness Applying Next‐Generation Sequencing Data
Authors: Njage Patrick Murigu Kamau , Henri Clementine , Leekitcharoenphon Pimlapas , Mistou Michel‐Yves , Hendriksen Rene S. , Hald Tine
Published: November 2018

Next‐generation sequencing (NGS) data present an untapped potential to improve microbial risk assessment (MRA) through increased specificity and redefinition of the hazard. Most of the MRA models do not account for differences in survivability and virulence among strains. The potential of machine learning algorithms for predicting the risk/health burden at the population level while inputting large and complex NGS data was explored with Listeria monocytogenes as a case study. Listeria data consisted of a percentage similarity matrix from genome assemblies of 38 and 207 strains of clinical and food origin, respectively. Basic Local Alignment (BLAST) was used to align the assemblies against a database of 136 virulence and stress resistance genes. The outcome variable was frequency of illness, which is the percentage of reported cases associated with each strain. These frequency data were discretized into seven ordinal outcome categories and used for supervised machine learning and model selection from five ensemble algorithms. There was no significant difference in accuracy between the models, and support vector machine with linear kernel was chosen for further inference (accuracy of 89% [95% CI: 68%, 97%]). The virulence genes FAM002725, FAM002728, FAM002729, InlF, InlJ, Inlk, IisY, IisD, IisX, IisH, IisB, lmo2026, and FAM003296 were important predictors of higher frequency of illness. InlF was uniquely truncated in the sequence type 121 strains. Most important risk predictor genes occurred at highest prevalence among strains from ready‐to‐eat, dairy, and composite foods. We foresee that the findings and approaches described offer the potential for rethinking the current approaches in MRA.
Help‐seeking Behavior in Socially Conservative and Christian Suicide Decedents
Authors: Waitz‐Kudla Sydney N. , Daruwala Samantha E. , Houtsma Claire , Anestis Michael D.
Published: November 2018

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between religious affiliation, political beliefs, and lifetime mental health help‐seeking behavior in a sample of suicide decedents. We hypothesized that Christian decedents would be less likely to have sought help than non‐Christians, and socially conservative individuals would be less likely to have sought help than socially liberal or moderate individuals.

Method

Smaller samples (N = 147 for political analyses, N = 218 for religion analyses) were drawn from a larger sample of 267 suicide decedents, for whom data were collected from loss survivors.

Results

Logistic regression analyses showed that Christian and non‐Christian individuals did not differ significantly in help‐seeking behavior prior to death by suicide. Individuals who identified as socially liberal were significantly more likely to have sought mental health care than were individuals who identified as socially conservative.

Conclusions

This is the first study to examine the association between social conservatism and a lack of help‐seeking behavior. These findings show the importance of implementing interventions to increase help‐seeking behavior for suicidality within demographic groups that stigmatize help‐seeking behavior, specifically socially conservative individuals. They also stress the importance of suicide prevention tactics that do not require disclosing suicidal intent within these groups.
Circulating miRNA‐150‐5p is associated with immune‐mediated early β‐cell loss in a humanized mouse model
Authors: Roat Regan , Hossain Md Munir , Christopherson Jenica , Free Colette , Guay Claudiane , Regazzi Romano , Guo Zhiguang
Published: November 2018

Background

Aberrant microRNA (miRNA) expression levels are associated with various graft rejections. We used our humanized mouse model with transplanted human islets to identify miRNAs in islet grafts related to xenograft rejection and circulating miRNAs associated with xenograft rejection‐mediated β‐cell loss.

Methods

Diabetic immunodeficient NOD.scid mice were transplanted with human islets and subsequently achieved stable normoglycemia. Lymphocytes from NOD mice were then adoptively transferred to the humanized mice to induce human β‐cell destruction. Islet graft and plasma were collected immediately once blood glucose reached >200 mg/dL. miRNAs in the islet grafts and in the plasma with or without adoptive lymphocyte transfer (ALT) were measured using NanoString nCounter® miRNA Expression Assay and qPCR.

Results

A set of immune‐related miRNAs was significantly increased in human islet grafts of ALT‐treated mice compared to control mice. Of these miRNAs, miR‐150‐5p was significantly increased in the circulation of ALT‐treated mice at tissue collection and the increase was a result of immune activation rather than simply the presence of lymphocytes in circulation. Furthermore, miR‐150‐5p was significantly increased in human islet graft and circulation prior to the development of hyperglycemia in the ALT‐treated mice.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrated that immune‐related miRNAs are associated with human islet xenograft rejection in mice. miR‐150‐5p is increased in human islet graft and in the circulation during islet xenograft rejection and β‐cell destruction prior to hyperglycemia and may be an early biomarker for islet xenograft rejection.
TWO PERSPECTIVES ON ANIMAL MORALITY
Authors: Willows Adam M. , Baynes‐Rock Marcus
Published: November 2018

Are animals moral agents? In this article, a theologian and an anthropologist unite to bring the resources of each field to bear on this question. Alas, not all interdisciplinary conversations end harmoniously, and after much discussion the two authors find themselves in substantial disagreement over the answer. The article is therefore presented in two halves, one for each side of the argument. As well as presenting two different positions, our hope is that this article clarifies the different understandings of morality in our respective fields and will help to offset confusion in interdisciplinary dialogue. In what follows, we each present our case. In the first section, Adam Willows argues that moral activity necessarily involves the use of reason, symbolic thought, and language and is on that basis an exclusively human affair. In the second, Marcus Baynes‐Rock discusses his experience of relationality with other creatures; a relationality which, he argues, creates a shared understanding of obligations which are characteristically moral.
MAGNETS, MAGIC, AND OTHER ANOMALIES: IN DEFENSE OF METHODOLOGICAL NATURALISM
Authors: Perry John , Ritchie Sarah Lane
Published: November 2018

Recent critiques of methodological naturalism (MN) claim that it fails by conflicting with Christian belief and being insufficiently humble. We defend MN by tracing the real history of the debate, contending that the story as it is usually told is mythic. We show how MN works in practice, including among real scientists. The debate is a red herring. It only appears problematic because of confusion among its opponents about how scientists respond to experimental anomalies. We conclude by introducing our preferred approach, Science‐Engaged Theology.
Morphological and Physical Study of La0.7Sr0.3Co0.2Fe0.8O3-δ (LSCF 7328) Flat Membranes Modified by Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
Authors: Ilham A. M. , Khoiroh N. , Jovita S. , Iqbal R. M. , Harmelia L. , Nurherdiana S. D. , Utomo W. P. , Fansuri H.
Published: November 2018

The aim of this work is to study the effect of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on the modification of microstructure formation correlated with the mechanical strength properties of perovskite-based membrane in form of a flat sheet. LSCF 7328 flat membrane was potentially promoted as an oxygen separator and catalyst for partial oxidation of methane reaction at high temperature. In this study, the phase-inversion followed by sintering process was used as the membrane fabrication method using varied PEG concentration of 0.55, 1.00, and 3.00 wt% with different molecular weight, i.e., PEG 300, 600, 1500, and 4000 Da for each PEG concentration. The result of morphology observation shows that almost every membrane hasthe asymmetric structure with finger-like pores and thin dense layer. Increasing PEG concentration as well as molecular weight increases pore size and affects on porosity, pore's volume, and physical properties of membrane. The largest pore size, pore volume and porosity of the membrane after sintering were found in the addition of 3.00% PEG 4000 (Da) additive with the value of 110.45 μm, 81.34 ml.g-1 and 120.6%, respectively. In addition, the mechanical properties of membrane were tested using the Vickers micro hardness method with the greatest value found in the addition of 3.00% PEG 1500 (Da) additive with the value of 13.58 Hv and the lowest is 3.00% PEG 4000 (Da) with the value of 1.2 Hv.
Electromyography (EMG) based Classification of Finger Movements using SVM
Authors: Esa Nurazrin Mohd , Mohd Zain Azlan , Bahari Mahadi
Published: November 2018

Myoelectric control prostheses hand are currently popular developing clinical option that offers amputee person to control their artificial hand by analyzing the contacting muscle residual. Myoelectric control system contains three main phase which are data segmentation, feature extraction and classification. The main factor that affect the performance of myoelectric control system is the choice of feature extraction methods. There are two types of feature extraction technique used to extract the signal which are the Hudgins feature consist of Zero Crossing, Waveform Length (WL), Sign Scope Change (SSC) and Mean Absolute Value (MAV), the single Root Mean Square (RMS). Then, the combination of both is proposed in this study. An analysis of these different techniques result were examine to achieve a favorable classification accuracy (CA). Our outcomes demonstrate that the combination of RMS and Hudgins feature set demonstrate the best average classification accuracy for all ten fingers developments. The classification process implemented in this studies is using Support Vector Machine (SVM) technique.
The Measurement of Molecular Biological Activity based on Quantitative Structure Activity Relationships
Authors: Nasser Maged Nasser , Hamza Hentabli , Salim Naomie , Saeed Faisal
Published: November 2018

The urge of producing new chemical compounds under eco-friendly production restriction and with minimum side effects is significantly rising, considering the difficulties that conventional methods are dealing with, from financial investments and being time consuming to multi resistance microorganisms and untreatable diseases. Rational molecular design methods like Computer Aided Molecular Design (CAMD) and Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR) allow the production of new substances with pre-decided properties and correlate the structure to biological activity, which influences the drug development process and minimizes the financial investment involved in the process. QSAR employs several descriptors to decode the molecular configuration of a compound, which facilitate the understanding of its physical and biological properties. There are various conditions such as the selection of compounds and descriptors that must be accomplished for developing an applicable model of QSAR. The underlining principles and steps of QSAR are explained in this review paper.
An Enhanced Underwater Linear Wireless Sensor Network Deployment Strategy for Data Collection
Authors: Ahmed Zahoor , Abu Bakar Kamalrulnizam
Published: November 2018

The deployment of Linear Wireless Sensor Network (LWSN) in underwater environment has attracted several research studies in the underwater data collection research domain. One of the major issues in underwater data collection is the lack of robust structure in the deployment of sensor nodes. The challenge is more obvious when considering a linear pipeline that covers hundreds of kilometers. In most of the previous work, nodes are deployed not considering heterogeneity and capacity of the various sensor nodes. This lead to the problem of inefficient data delivery from the sensor nodes on the underwater pipeline to the sink node at the water surface. Therefore, in this study, an Enhanced Underwater Linear Wireless Sensor Network Deployment (EULWSND) has been proposed in order to improve the robustness in linear sensor underwater data collection. To this end, this paper presents a review of related literature in an underwater linear wireless sensor network. Further, a deployment strategy is discussed considering linearity of the underwater pipeline and heterogeneity of sensor nodes. Some research challenges and directions are identified for future research work. Furthermore, the proposed deployment strategy is implemented using AQUASIM and compared with an existing data collection scheme. The result demonstrates that the proposed EULWSND outperforms the existing Dynamic Address Routing Protocol for Pipeline Monitoring (DARP-PM) in terms of overhead and packet delivery ratio metrics. The scheme performs better in terms of lower overhead with 17.4% and higher packet delivery with 20.5%.
In-Home Surveillance Systems and Privacy Considerations for Malaysians: A Survey
Authors: Nassiri Abrishamchi Mohammad Ali , David Cheok Adrian , Abdullah Abdul Hanan , Stanley Bielawski Kevin
Published: November 2018

Always-on cameras, microphones, and devices are increasingly intruding on private environments due to their promising applications in regard with the better quality of life. But they can also be exploit by adversaries as surveillance systems, introducing a matter of concern for privacy. Intruders can observe and record in-home activities for further malicious aims. Due to this vulnerability, it is important that privacy issue in this case, being addressed properly. Since perception of privacy varies among different cultures, privacy priorities of each culture should be investigated separately. In order to provide a better insight into Malaysians opinions about their highly private in-home activities for designers of visual smart household systems, we conducted an anonymous survey with 217 respondents. In this paper, we discuss the outcomes of our survey in order to provide a reference for engineers working for the Malaysian market.
The Ideals of Renewal of European Spiritual Movements in the Americas
Authors: Rios Maria Cristina
Published: November 2018

This article aims at revealing the connections between the ideals of renewal contained in the European devotions of the Late Middle Ages and those of the missionaries during the first wave of the Evangelization of Mexico. Inspired by a variety of spiritual movements aimed at building an indigenous church and centred on upholding the Law of Christ, these missionaries concur with both the reformers of the Brethren of the Common Life and Luther’s political philosophy of attaining a perfect communitas. This research focuses on demonstrating how the ideals of spiritual renewal articulated by Franciscan mystics and missionaries in the Americas embraced the same theological sources as those used by Groote, Eckhart and à Kempis in the Late Middle Ages.
Gender and Age Differences in Safety-Oriented Personality Style or Phobicentric Psychopathology (SOPS/PCP)
Authors: Bickersteth Patrick , Zhang Xinxin , Zhang Xiaozhou
Published: November 2018

This study investigates differences in gender and age in the Safety-Oriented Personality Style or Phobicentric Psychopathology (SOPS/PCP). Comparisons are made with Neuroticism in the Big 5 or Five Factor Model to further distinguish it from SOPS/PCP. The results show similarity in age but not gender differences between the two constructs. Also, the location of the participants (Canada or USA) was not significant. The study is an initial step in accumulating basic facts about SOPS/PCP.
Low-temperature homoepitaxial growth of two-dimensional antimony superlattices in silicon
Authors: Jewell April D. , Hoenk Michael E. , Carver Alexander G. , Nikzad Shouleh
Published: November 2018

The authors present a low-temperature process for the homoepitaxial growth of antimony superlattices in silicon. The all low-temperature superlattice doping process is compatible as a postfabrication step for device passivation. The authors have used low-temperature molecular beam epitaxy to embed atomically thin (2D), highly concentrated layers of dopant atoms within nanometers of the surface. This process allows for dopant densities on the order of 1013–1014 cm−2 (1020–1021 cm−3); higher than can be achieved with three-dimensional doping techniques. This effort builds on prior work with n-type delta doping; the authors have optimized the growth processes to achieve delta layers with sharp dopant profiles. By transitioning from a standard effusion cell to a valved cracker cell for antimony evaporation, the authors have achieved carrier densities approaching 1021 cm−3 with peak distribution at ∼10 Å FWHM for single delta layers. Even at the highest dopant concentrations studied, no deterioration in carrier mobility is observed, suggesting the upper limit for dopant incorporation and activation has not yet been met. The authors will discuss the details related to growth optimization and show results from in situ monitoring by electron diffraction. They will also report on elemental and electrical characterization of the films.
Improving the soundscape quality of urban areas exposed to aircraft noise by adding moving water and vegetation
Authors: Lugten Martijn , Karacaoglu Merve , White Kim , Kang Jian , Steemers Koen
Published: November 2018

Research shows that the sight of trees and the sound of moving water improve the soundscape quality of outdoor spaces exposed to road traffic noise. Effects are attributed to non-energetic masking, visual attentional distortion, and congruence between sight and hearing. However, there is no literature on such effects for aircraft noise. Aircraft noise varies from other traffic sources, i.e., in terms temporal variability, duration, and spectral composition, complicating the application of findings without further research. In a virtual reality experiment reported in this article, participants were asked to rate scenarios with different sound levels of flyovers, urban typologies, vegetation, and/ or water features. The results showed a significant improvement of the soundscape quality when (1) vegetation and (2) moving water were present, and especially when (3) vegetation and moving water were presented simultaneously, especially for residential areas in terms of the relative change. Moving water also reduced the saliency of aircraft flyovers significantly, changing the constellation of fore- and background sounds. Moving water raised the perceived audibility of the most dominant sound source too, which could be attributed to non-energetic masking effects. The findings of this study indicate that soundscape strategies can complement noise abatement in areas prone to aircraft noise.
Spatial variations in crop growing seasons pivotal to reproduce global fluctuations in maize and wheat yields
Authors: Jägermeyr Jonas , Frieler Katja
Published: November 2018

Timing matters: Global crop models need better growing season information to reproduce the impacts of extreme events.
Spatial interference scale as a determinant of microbial range expansion
Authors: Celik Ozgen Venhar , Kong Wentao , Blanchard Andrew E. , Liu Feng , Lu Ting
Published: November 2018

This study establishes the spatial scale of cellular interaction as a key determinant of microbial range expansion.
Smart houses and domotics
Authors: Murphy Robin R.
Published: November 2018

What made smart houses scary in 1909 makes them now essential.
Forced Recycling of an AMA1-Based Genome-Editing Plasmid Allows for Efficient Multiple Gene Deletion/Integration in the Industrial Filamentous Fungus
Aspergillus oryzae
Authors: Katayama Takuya , Nakamura Hidetoshi , Zhang Yue , Pascal Arnaud , Fujii Wataru , Maruyama Jun-ichi
Published: November 2018

Multiple gene modifications of specific fungal strains are required for achieving industrial-scale production of enzymes and secondary metabolites. In the present study, we developed an efficient multiple genetic engineering technique for the filamentous fungus
Aspergillus oryzae
. The approach is based on a clustered regulatory interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 system and recycling of an AMA1-based autonomous replicating plasmid. Because the plasmid harbors a drug resistance marker (
ptrA
), the approach does not require the construction of auxotrophic industrial strains prior to genome editing and allows for forced recycling of the gene-editing plasmid. The established plasmid-recycling technique involves an
Aoace2
-conditional expression cassette, whose induction severely impairs fungal growth. We used the developed genetic engineering techniques for highly efficient marker-free multiple gene deletion/integration in
A. oryzae
. The genome-editing approaches established in the present study, which enable unlimited repeatable genetic engineering, will facilitate multiple gene modification of industrially important fungal strains.
RNA Helicase A Is an Important Host Factor Involved in Dengue Virus Replication
Authors: Wang Yi , Chen Xiaoyan , Xie Jiong , Zhou Shili , Huang Yanxia , Li Yi-Ping , Li Xiaobo , Liu Chao , He Junfang , Zhang Ping
Published: November 2018

Dengue, caused by dengue virus, is a rapidly spreading disease, and currently there are no treatments available. Host factors involved in the viral replication of dengue virus are potential antiviral therapeutic targets. Although RHA has been shown to promote the multiplication of several viruses, such as HIV and adenovirus, its role in the flavivirus family, including dengue virus, Japanese encephalitis virus, and emerging Zika virus, remains elusive. The current study revealed that RHA relocalized into the cytoplasm upon DENV infection and associated with viral RNA and nonstructural proteins, implying that RHA was actively engaged in the viral life cycle. We further provide evidence that RHA promoted the viral yields of DENV2 independent of its helicase activity. These findings demonstrated that RHA is a new host factor required for DENV replication and might serve as a target for antiviral drugs.