bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Heart Rate Response During 48-Hour Rewarming Phase of Therapeutic Hypothermia on Neurologic Outcomes in Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Patients
Authors: Inoue Akihiko , Hifumi Toru , Yonemoto Naohiro , Kuroda Yasuhiro , Kawakita Kenya , Sawano Hirotaka , Tahara Yoshio , Hase Mamoru , Nishioka Kenji , Shirai Shinichi , Hazui Hiroshi , Arimoto Hideki , Kashiwase Kazunori , Kasaoka Shunji , Motomura Tomokazu , Yasuga Yuji , Yokoyama Hiroyuki , Nagao Ken , Nonogi Hiroshi
Published: June 2018

Objectives:

Bradycardia during therapeutic hypothermia has been reported to be a predictor of favorable neurologic outcomes in out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. However, bradycardia occurrence rate may be influenced by the target body temperature. During therapeutic hypothermia, as part of the normal physiologic response, heart rate decreases in the cooling phase and increases during the rewarming phase. We hypothesized that increased heart rate during the rewarming phase is another predictor of favorable neurologic outcomes. To address this hypothesis, the study aimed to examine the association between heart rate response during the rewarming phase and neurologic outcomes in patients having return of spontaneous circulation after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

Design:

A secondary analysis of the Japanese Population-based Utstein style study with defibrillation and basic/advanced Life Support Education and implementation-Hypothermia registry, which was a multicenter prospective cohort study.

Setting:

Fourteen hospitals throughout Japan.

Patients:

Patients suffering from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest who received therapeutic hypothermia after the return of spontaneous circulation from 2005 to 2011.

Intervention:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

This study enrolled 452 out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients, of which 354 were analyzed, and 80.2% survived to hospital discharge, of which 57.3% had a good neurologic outcome. Heart rate response was calculated using heart rate data recorded during therapeutic hypothermia in the abovementioned registry. Heart rate response in the rewarming phase (heart rate response-rewarming) was calculated as follows: (heart rate [post rewarming]–heart rate [pre rewarming])/heart rate (pre rewarming) × 100. The primary outcome was an unfavorable neurologic outcome at hospital discharge, that is, a Cerebral Performance Category of 3–5. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association between heart rate response-rewarming and unfavorable neurologic outcomes. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that heart rate response-rewarming was independently associated with unfavorable outcomes (odds ratio [per 10% change], 0.86; 95% CI, 0.78–0.96; p = 0.004).

Conclusions:

Increased heart rate in the approximately 48-hour rewarming phase during therapeutic hypothermia was significantly associated with and was an independent predictor of favorable neurologic outcomes during out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.
Diabetes and Glucose Dysregulation and Transition to Delirium in ICU Patients
Authors: van Keulen Kris , Knol Wilma , Belitser Svetlana V. , van der Linden Paul D. , Heerdink Eibert R. , Egberts Toine C. G. , Slooter Arjen J. C.
Published: June 2018

Objectives:

To investigate whether diabetes and glucose dysregulation (hyperglycemia and/or hypoglycemia) are associated with ICU delirium.

Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Setting:

Thirty-two–bed mixed intensive care in a tertiary care center.

Patients:

Critically ill patients admitted to the ICU with transitions of mental status from awake and nondelirious to delirious or remaining awake and nondelirious on the next day. Patients admitted because of a neurologic illness were excluded.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

The study population consisted of 2,745 patients with 1,720 transitions from awake and nondelirious to delirious and 11,421 nontransitions remaining awake and nondelirious. Generalized mixed effects models with logit link function were performed to study the association between diabetes mellitus, glucose dysregulation, and delirium, adjusting for potential confounders. Diabetes was not associated with delirium (odds ratio adjusted, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.73–1.18). In all patients, the occurrence of hyperglycemia (odds ratio adjusted, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.15–1.59) and the occurrence of both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia on the same day (odds ratio adjusted, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.12–2.28) compared with normoglycemia were associated with transition to delirium. Hypoglycemia was not associated with transition to delirium (odds ratio adjusted, 1.86; 95% CI, 0.73–3.71). In patients without diabetes, the occurrence of hyperglycemia (odds ratio adjusted, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.16–1.68) and the occurrence of both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia on the same day (odds ratio adjusted, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.07–2.89) were associated with transition to delirium. In patients with diabetes, glucose dysregulation was not associated with ICU delirium.

Conclusions:

Diabetes mellitus was not associated with the development of ICU delirium. For hypoglycemia, only a nonsignificant odds ratio for ICU delirium could be noted. Hyperglycemia and the occurrence of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia on the same day were associated with ICU delirium but only in patients without diabetes. Our study supports the institution of measures to prevent glucose dysregulation in nondiabetic ICU patients and contributes to the understanding of the determinants of delirium.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Antiepileptic Drugs in Epilepsy: A 2018 Update
Authors: Patsalos Philip N. , Spencer Edgar P. , Berry Dave J.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) are the mainstay of epilepsy treatment. Since 1989, 18 new AEDs have been licensed for clinical use and there are now 27 licensed AEDs in total for the treatment of patients with epilepsy. Furthermore, several AEDs are also used for the management of other medical conditions, for example, pain and bipolar disorder. This has led to an increasingly widespread application of therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of AEDs, making AEDs among the most common medications for which TDM is performed. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the indications for AED TDM, to provide key information for each individual AED in terms of the drug's prescribing indications, key pharmacokinetic characteristics, associated drug–drug pharmacokinetic interactions, and the value and the intricacies of TDM for each AED. The concept of the reference range is discussed as well as practical issues such as choice of sample types (total versus free concentrations in blood versus saliva) and sample collection and processing.

Methods:

The present review is based on published articles and searches in PubMed and Google Scholar, last searched in March 2018, in addition to references from relevant articles.

Results:

In total, 171 relevant references were identified and used to prepare this review.

Conclusions:

TDM provides a pragmatic approach to epilepsy care, in that bespoke dose adjustments are undertaken based on drug concentrations so as to optimize clinical outcome. For the older first-generation AEDs (carbamazepine, ethosuximide, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, and valproic acid), much data have accumulated in this regard. However, this is occurring increasingly for the new AEDs (brivaracetam, eslicarbazepine acetate, felbamate, gabapentin, lacosamide, lamotrigine, levetiracetam, oxcarbazepine, perampanel, piracetam, pregabalin, rufinamide, stiripentol, sulthiame, tiagabine, topiramate, vigabatrin, and zonisamide).
Modeling Tissue Heating From Exposure to Radiofrequency Energy and Relevance of Tissue Heating to Exposure Limits: Heating Factor
Authors: Foster Kenneth R. , Ziskin Marvin C. , Balzano Quirino , Bit-Babik Giorgi
Published: June 2018

This review/commentary addresses recent thermal and electromagnetic modeling studies that use image-based anthropomorphic human models to establish the local absorption of radiofrequency energy and the resulting increase in temperature in the body. The frequency range of present interest is from 100 MHz through the transition frequency (where the basic restrictions in exposure guidelines change from specific absorption rate to incident power density, which occurs at 3–10 GHz depending on the guideline). Several detailed thermal modeling studies are reviewed to compare a recently introduced dosimetric quantity, the heating factor, across different exposure conditions as related to the peak temperature rise in tissue that would be permitted by limits for local body exposure. The present review suggests that the heating factor is a robust quantity that is useful for normalizing exposures across different simulation models. Limitations include lack of information about the location in the body where peak absorption and peak temperature increases occur in each exposure scenario, which are needed for careful assessment of potential hazards. To the limited extent that comparisons are possible, the thermal model (which is based on Pennes’ bioheat equation) agrees reasonably well with experimental data, notwithstanding the lack of theoretical rigor of the model and uncertainties in the model parameters. In particular, the blood flow parameter is both variable with physiological condition and largely determines the steady state temperature rise. We suggest an approach to define exposure limits above and below the transition frequency (the frequency at which the basic restriction changes from specific absorption rate to incident power density) to provide consistent levels of protection against thermal hazards. More research is needed to better validate the model and to improve thermal dosimetry in general. While modeling studies have considered the effects of variation in thickness of tissue layers, the effects of normal physiological variation in tissue blood flow have been relatively unexplored.
The Feasibility of Retrofacial Approach for Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Yilmazer Rasim , Gerring Robert C. , Sidani Charif , Wolfovitz Amit , Angeli Simon I. , Telischi Fred F.
Published: June 2018

Hypothesis:

The retrofacial approach is a feasible approach to the round window niche and that the Round window-Sigmoid sinus line will help determine the feasibility of retrofacial approach for cochlear implantation unless there is a very high jugular bulb.

Background:

When the round window cannot be visualized by facial recess approach during cochlear implantation, other conservative techniques can be used to improve visualization such as the retrofacial approach.

Methods:

Thirteen adult dry cadaveric temporal bones were studied. Computed tomography (CT) scan was obtained on all temporal bones. An imaginary Round window-Sigmoid sinus line was drawn on the axial images. We assessed whether this line is anterior (including intersection) or posterior to the facial nerve (FN). The following closest distances were measured on CT scans: 1) posterior semicircular canal (PSC)-FN, 2) PSC-Stapedius muscle, 3) PSC-Jugular bulb, 4) lateral semicircular canal (LSC)-Jugular bulb, 5) sigmoid sinus-FN. A canal wall-up mastoidectomy, facial recess, and retrofacial approach were performed in all specimens. We have noted whether we need a standard or an extended mastoidectomy.

Results:

The Round window-Sigmoid sinus line was posterior to the FN in all specimens. The retrofacial approach was feasible and the round window was visualized in all specimens. Extended mastoidectomy was required in seven specimens and the PSC-FN was ≤ 3 mm in five of them.

Conclusion:

Retrofacial approach is feasible in cochlear implantation when the Round window-Sigmoid sinus line is posterior to the FN and the jugular bulb is not obstructing the round window.
Effects of Cartilage Overlay on the Tympanic Membrane: Lessons From a Temporal Bone Study for Cartilage Tympanoplasty
Authors: Eldaebes Mostafa M.A.S. , Landry Thomas G. , Bance Manohar L.
Published: June 2018

Hypothesis:

Placing cartilage grafts on different tympanic membrane (TM) locations will affect sound transfer function, and the effects will differ according to the part of the TM modified.

Background:

Cartilage tympanoplasty is increasingly popular because of lower reperforation rates, and better long-term stability. In this temporal bone study, we investigated the effect of placing cartilage grafts over different parts of the normal TM on sound transmission.

Methods:

In 10 human fresh frozen temporal bones, umbo and stapes vibrations to acoustic stimuli from 250 to 8000 Hz were measured at multiple points using a scanning laser vibrometer. Four different cartilage arrangements were measured in each temporal bone. 1) Overlay condition leaving an umbo rim of normal TM (Umbo Rim). 2) Overlay condition leaving annular rim of normal TM (Annular Rim). 3) Overlay condition leaving both rims of normal TM (Two Rims). 4) Overlay condition leaving no normal TM exposed (No Rims).

Results:

At low frequencies, there was a statistically significant decrease in velocity from baseline for the No Rims (umbo mean −4 dB; stapes −6 dB) and Umbo Rim (umbo −4 dB; stapes −3.7 dB) conditions. All conditions showed significant decreases for middle frequencies (umbo −4.0, −5.9, −7.4 and −6.3 dB; stapes −10.8, −6.6, −6.3 and −7.7 dB) and high frequencies (umbo −13.2, −3.0, −3.1 and −5.5 dB; stapes −4.6, −2.4, −2.6 and −3.5 dB). Results are in order for No Rims, Umbo Rim, Two Rims, and Annular Rim conditions.

Conclusion:

In the low frequencies, it seems to matter where the cartilage is placed, and in particular the annular rim of the TM seems to be important for the low-frequency acoustic transfer function. In the higher frequencies, all graft placements caused some drop at all frequencies. In all frequencies, effects were modest by clinical standards.
Testability Study of the Titmus V3 Test in Pre-school Children
Authors: Furr Bruce Alan , Musch David C. , Andrews Chris A. , Schumann Rachel
Published: June 2018

SIGNIFICANCE

Vision screening can identify people who have vision problems requiring a comprehensive examination. When children are screened, the most prevalent serious problem is amblyopia secondary to uncorrected ametropia. Screening also identifies strabismus, which can lead to loss of binocularity. Early diagnosis permits treatment with restoration of balanced vision and binocularity.

PURPOSE

The study evaluated the testability of the Titmus V3 Vision Screener as a method to screen vision and strabismus in pre-school children.

METHODS

Pre-school children between 36 and 66 months of age underwent vision screening in six Michigan counties. The State of Michigan screening consists of the LEA Symbols test for visual acuity and the stereo butterfly for near-strabismus testing. The proposed Titmus V3 screening tests were the LEA Symbols slide for vision and near-strabismus test slide. Primary and secondary objectives of this study were to evaluate the percentage of pre-school children who completed the Titmus V3 screening tests for vision and near strabismus and factors associated with an inability to complete the tests, contrasting the pass/fail results between the state and Titmus V3 results.

RESULTS

Two-hundred sixty-three children were tested. The percentages of children unable to score on the Titmus V3 instrument versus the state's LEA Symbols test were 16.0% and 5.3%, respectively. The percentage of children unable to score on the Titmus V3 near-strabismus test slide was 6.9 versus 3.4% on the State of Michigan stereo butterfly test. Younger age at testing was the most important factor associated with the inability to complete testing.

CONCLUSIONS

Because of testability limitations and higher failure rates relative to the State of Michigan testing methods, the Titmus V3 screening device is not a feasible alternative to the standard methods used by the State of Michigan for vision and near-strabismus screening among the pre-school subjects we tested.
Interocular Asymmetry of the Ganglion Cell–inner Plexiform Layer in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Lim Hyung Bin , Lee Woo Hyuk , Jo Young Joon , Kim Jung Yeul
Published: June 2018

SIGNIFICANCE

The interocular difference in the ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer thickness showed a significant correlation with the diabetic retinopathy (DR) severity.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to analyze the interocular differences in the foveal, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), and ganglion cell–inner plexiform layer (GC-IPL) thickness of DR patients using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography.

METHODS

A total of 508 eyes from 254 patients with different severities of DR and 184 eyes from 92 control subjects were included. The GC-IPL, foveal, and RNFL thicknesses were measured, and the interocular differences in these thicknesses were correlated in control subjects and DR patients.

RESULTS

The interocular difference in the average GC-IPL thickness significantly increased with the severity of DR. The interocular differences in the average GC-IPL thicknesses of the severe nonproliferative DR (NPDR) and the proliferative DR patients were significantly higher than those of the control group. However, there was no significant difference in thickness between the control group and the group with mild to moderate NPDR. In the group with proliferative DR, the interocular difference in the average GC-IPL was greater than those in the central foveal and RNFL thicknesses. Multivariate regression analyses showed that the DR severity and the interocular difference in central foveal thickness were significantly correlated with the interocular difference in the average GC-IPL thickness.

CONCLUSIONS

The interocular differences in the central foveal, RNFL, and GC-IPL thicknesses significantly increased with increased DR severity. However, there was no significant difference between the control group and the group with mild to moderate NPDR. The GC-IPL differences showed a significant correlation with DR severity. These findings may be an indicator of DR progression.
Case Series: Corneal Epithelial Macrocysts in Scleral Contact Lenses Post–penetrating Keratoplasty
Authors: Nguyen Linda Trang , Yang David , Vien Lee
Published: June 2018

SIGNIFICANCE

Transitory corneal epithelial macrocysts associated with scleral contact lens wear post–penetrating keratoplasty are observed in areas of corneal edema. The macrocysts do not appear to result in complications that would prevent successful wear of scleral contact lenses.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to report three cases of transitory corneal epithelial macrocysts associated with scleral lenses in post–penetrating keratoplasty corneas.

CASE REPORTS

Three cases including anterior segment photographs and anterior segment optical coherence tomography highlight the clinical presentation of transient corneal epithelial macrocysts.

CONCLUSIONS

Corneal edema and anatomical alterations after penetrating keratoplasty along with the negative pressure underneath a scleral contact lens are hypothesized to have caused the transient epithelial macrocysts observed in these cases. Because of the transitory nature of these cysts without evidence of consequent corneal damage or cyst rupture over years of observance, we believe that it is safe for these patients to continue wearing scleral contact lenses with routine follow-up.
Older Patient Preferences for Internal Fixation after a Distal Radius Fracture: A Qualitative Study from the Wrist and Radius Injury Surgical Trial
Authors: Nasser Jacob S. , Huetteman Helen E. , Shauver Melissa J. , Chung Kevin C.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Distal radius fracture treatments provide similar functional outcomes. It has been hypothesized that the use of internal fixation is increasing because of physician preferences. The multisite randomized Wrist and Radius Injury Surgical Trial provides a unique opportunity to examine patient preferences in the absence of surgeon influence. The authors’ objective was to investigate patient preference for internal fixation even after being informed of the equipoise among treatments.

Methods:

The authors performed 30 semistructured interviews with older individuals, all older than 60 years, approached at their institution for the Wrist and Radius Injury Surgical Trial. The authors’ sample included three groups: those with a preference for internal fixation (n = 11), those with preference for nonsurgical treatment (n = 6), and those without a preference who consented to surgical randomization (n = 13). We used grounded theory for data collection and analysis.

Results:

All participants indicated their chief concern was regaining full function. Patients based their preferences for internal fixation on multiple values, including obstacles to recovery, autonomy, aesthetics, and pain relief. Some patients who did not select internal fixation reflected on their experiences, questioning whether they would have had a potentially different outcome with internal fixation treatment.

Conclusions:

Without evidence for a superior treatment, patients focus on factors that pertain to recovery rather than outcomes, with most preferring the volar locking plating system. To best align with patient values, physicians should focus their discussion with patients on aspects of the recovery period rather than functional outcomes. Evidence from the Wrist and Radius Injury Surgical Trial will provide high-level information about patient-reported, functional, and radiographic outcomes.
Lipomatosis of Nerve: More than a Focal Distal Disease
Authors: Wehrli Laurent , Saheb-Al-Zamani Maryam , Khanna Monica , Lax Matthew J. , Anastakis Dimitri J.
Published: June 2018

Lipomatosis of nerve is a rare, ill-defined, fibrofatty tumor intermingled among nerve fascicles. The classic presentation of lipomatosis of nerve describes focal distal involvement of the median nerve at the wrist. The purpose of this study was to determine the level of proximal lesion extension in cases of upper extremity lipomatosis of nerve using magnetic resonance imaging. The authors’ study confirms that lipomatosis of nerve is more than a focal distal disease. Lipomatosis of nerve has the potential for multiple nerve involvement and for proximal nerve involvement extending to the nerve roots. Magnetic resonance imaging of the entire upper extremity may be indicated in patients with lipomatosis of nerve, especially when the ulnar nerve is affected.
Reconstruction of Microtia Using a Single Expanded Postauricular Flap without Skin Grafting: Experience of 683 Cases
Authors: Xing Wenshan , Kang Chunyu , Wang Yue , Zhang Qingguo
Published: June 2018

Background:

Auricular reconstruction of congenital microtia patients is a huge challenge for plastic surgeons worldwide. Current techniques usually use a retroauricular fascial flap with skin grafting, often proving to be color mismatched, complex, and with visible scarring. An uncomplicated strategy that results in minimal scarring and a good color match is still required, especially for Asian patients. In the present work, the authors developed a modified technique for auricular reconstruction using a single expanded flap combined with a cartilage framework.

Methods:

Auricular reconstruction was performed in three stages. In the first stage, an 80-ml kidney-shaped expander was inserted in the mastoid region. A gradual expansion period of approximately 2 to 3 months was implemented until the flap achieved an appropriate area, thickness, and softness. In the second stage, the expander was removed and a modified three-layer cartilage framework was inserted into the pocket through the same incision. In the third stage, the reconstructed ear underwent further refinements, including reconstruction of the earlobe and tragus.

Results:

From January of 2012 to January of 2017, 683 microtia patients (a total of 738 ears) were selected for auricular reconstruction using this technique. The patients were followed up for between 3 months and 2 years. Six hundred forty-two patients were satisfied with the final results regarding the size, shape, projection, symmetry, and clarity of outline. Surgery-related complications occurred in 20 patients.

Conclusion:

Auricular reconstruction using a single expanded flap combined with a modified three-layer cartilage framework is an effective and efficient technique for microtia reconstruction with satisfying medium-term results.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
Collaboration Between Cancer Survivorship and Rehabilitation Programs With Head and Neck Patients
Authors: Kirschner Michelle , Sherlock Jill
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to present an example of collaboration between a cancer survivorship and cancer rehabilitation program at an academic-affiliated hospital.

Findings

The article demonstrates the process of identifying and treating the surgical and radiation effects experienced by a head and neck cancer survivor. The specific roles of the advanced practice nurse and the physical therapist in assessing, identifying and treating cancer treatment-effects such as lymphedema and orthopedic problems are highlighted.

Conclusion

The survivorship visit is an opportunity to identify treatment-related effects amenable to rehabilitation and to refer head and neck cancer survivors to physical therapy for further evaluation and treatment.

Clinical Implication

Collaboration between nurses and physical therapists engaged in survivorship care can provide an effective and efficient pathway to improved functional outcomes for cancer survivors.
Risk Factors for Falls in Adult Cancer Survivors: An Integrative Review
Authors: Campbell Grace , Wolfe Rachel A. , Klem Mary Lou
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The aim of the study was to identify risk factors for falls among cancer survivors.

Design

Integrative literature review.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and PEDro for studies investigating fall risk in cancer. Reports of randomized controlled trials, descriptive studies (quantitative and qualitative), and theoretical papers meeting predetermined criteria were included. Quality ratings of included studies were done, and data were extracted and compiled by two independent reviewers.

Findings

Twenty-nine articles met inclusion criteria. Literature quality was moderate (median quality score: 1.67 out of 3 possible points). Heterogeneity of statistics and reporting methods precluded calculation of summary effect sizes, but physical function, cognitive function, balance/gait, and certain medication types appear to increase fall risk.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Modifiable risk factors, such as those identified in this review, represent tangible intervention targets for rehabilitation professionals for decreasing the risk of falls among cancer survivors.
Bulked-Segregant Analysis Coupled to Whole Genome Sequencing (BSA-Seq) for Rapid Gene Cloning in Maize
Authors: Klein Harry , Xiao Yuguo , Conklin Phillip A , Govindarajulu Rajanikanth , Kelly Jacob A , Scanlon Mike J , Whipple Clinton Jeremy , Bartlett Madelaine
Published: June 2018

Forward genetics remains a powerful method for revealing the genes underpinning organismal form and function, and for revealing how these genes are tied together in gene networks. In maize, forward genetics has been tremendously successful, but the size and complexity of the maize genome made identifying mutant genes an often arduous process with traditional methods. The next generation sequencing revolution has allowed for the gene cloning process to be significantly accelerated in many organisms, even when genomes are large and complex. Here, we describe a bulked-segregant analysis sequencing (BSA-Seq) protocol for cloning mutant genes in maize. Our simple strategy can be used to quickly identify a mapping interval and candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from whole genome sequencing of pooled F2 individuals. We employed this strategy to identify
narrow odd dwarf
as an enhancer of
teosinte branched1
, and to identify a new allele of
defective kernel1
. Our method provides a quick, simple way to clone genes in maize.
Host dietary specialization and neutral assembly shape gut bacterial communities of wild dragonflies
Authors: Deb Rittik , Nair Ashwin , Agashe Deepa
Published: June 2018

Host-associated gut microbial communities can have large impacts on host ecology and evolution, and are typically shaped by host taxonomy and diet. Different host species often harbor distinct microbial communities, potentially because (1) host dietary specialization determines microbial colonization, (2) host-specific selection acts on diet-acquired microbiota, and (3) a combination of both processes. While the first possibility involves passive community structuring, the other two may arise from a functional association and should produce stable microbial communities. However, these alternatives have rarely been tested in wild host populations. We used 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to characterize the gut bacterial communities of six dragonfly species collected across multiple seasons and locations. We found that variation in bacterial community composition was predominantly explained by sampling season and location, and secondarily by host species. To distinguish the role of host dietary specialization and host-imposed selection, we used insect-specific primers to identify prey in the gut contents of three focal dragonfly species. We found that these dragonflies – considered to be generalist predators – consumed distinct prey, with seasonal diet variation. Together, the patterns of host dietary specialization and spatial and temporal variation suggest a strong role of passive processes in shaping the gut bacterial community. Indeed, the abundance and distribution of ~76% of the bacterial community members were consistent with neutral community assembly. Our results contradict the pervasive expectation that host-imposed selection shapes gut microbial communities, and highlight the importance of joint analyses of variation in host diet and gut microbial communities of natural host populations.
A Scalable, Multiplexed Assay for Decoding Receptor-Ligand Interactions
Authors: Jones Eric M. , Jajoo Rishi , Cancilla Daniel , Lubock Nathan B. , Wang Jeff , Satyadi Megan , Cheung Rocky , de March Claire , Matsunami Hiroaki , Kosuri Sriram
Published: June 2018

Chemicals such as drugs, hormones, and odorants can have many potential interactions with endogenous targets, and uncovering these relationships is critical for understanding and modulating function. Mammalian olfactory receptors (ORs), a large family of G protein-coupled receptors, mediate olfaction through activation by small molecules. Each OR can respond to many odorants, and vice versa, making exploring this space one interaction at a time difficult. We developed a high-throughput receptor screening platform in human cell lines to screen libraries of chemicals against a multiplexed library of receptors using next-generation sequencing of barcoded genetic reporters. We screened three concentrations of 181 odorants, where in each well we record the activity of 39 ORs simultaneously, and identified 79 novel associations, including ligands for 15 orphan receptors. This platform allows the cost-effective mapping of large chemical libraries to receptor repertoires at scale.
Design of the composite casing of microstrip antenna for the aerospace satellite
Authors: Lach Artur , Katunin Andrzej , Gnatowski Adam
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The paper aims to present a design and numerical verification procedure of a composite casing of a microstrip antenna for an aerospace satellite.

Design/methodology/approach

The casing for the microstrip antenna was designed in a form of a laminate shell with variable number of layers of reinforcing fabric. The material properties, both static and dynamic, were determined experimentally and then exported to an environment of numerical analyses. The numerical modal analysis allows optimizing the geometry and lay-up of the casing in such a way that a number of modal shapes occurring in the operational frequency band was significantly reduced, several modal shapes with high displacement in flanges of the casing were eliminated and the values of natural frequencies were increased. A final model of the composite casing was subjected to two types of analyses which simulate typical operation conditions during spacecraft mission. These analyses contained thermomechanical quasi-static analyses with 12 loadcases and thermomechanical shock analyses with 9 loadcases, which simulate various mechanical and temperature conditions.

Findings

Results of the performed analyses were compared with safety margins determined by following requirements to spacecraft vehicles. The obtained results confirm the design feasibility, which allow considering the proposed design during manufacturing of a prototype in further studies.

Practical implications

Moreover, the presented results can be considered as a design methodology guideline, which can be helpful for engineers working in the aerospace industry.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper lies in the proposed design and verification procedure of composite elements subjected to operational loading during a spacecraft mission.
A grey-based assessment approach to the site selection of a desalination plant in Libya
Authors: Badi Ibrahim A. , Abdulshahed Ali M. , Shetwan Ali , Ballem Mohamed Ali
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a site selection method using grey system theory for a desalination plant in Libya.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to tackle incompleteness and imprecision of human’s judgments, grey numbers were used. This work uses a grey-based approach to represent decision makers’ comparison judgments and extent analysis method to select the best site. Therefore, a real case study of a selection problem of a site selection of desalination plant in Libya was used to illustrate the proposed approach.

Findings

Site selection in a desalination plant can be one of the most important decisions in planning a desalination project. The decision affects both the project cost and potentially the project schedule. Based on the results of grey model, a clear order of these sites and the degree of preference are obtained. This paper presents a way to improve a site selection by using a grey model, especially in a complex environment like Libya.

Originality/value

To the best knowledge of the authors, there is no literature for site selection using grey system theory in a desalination plant in Libya. This attempt may well enhance and facilitate the decision-making process of the best site in the country involved in this research.
Identification of macroeconomic determinants for diversification and investment strategy for Islamic unit trust funds in Malaysia
Authors: Othman Anwar Hasan Abdullah , Aziz Hasanuddeen Abdul , Kassim Salina
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of selected macroeconomic variables in influencing the movement of net asset value (NAV) of the Islamic unit trust funds (UTFs) in Malaysia. In efforts to arrive at more enriching findings, the UTFs are further categorised into equity, bond, balanced, fixed, mixed, money market and feeder funds.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts the vector autoregression framework (Johansen and Juselius (1990), cointegration test and vector error correction model to analyse the relationship between the macroeconomic variables and the NAVs of the various type of funds.

Findings

The study shows that there is a significant long-run equilibrium relationship between the macroeconomic variables and the NAV of all Islamic UTFs in Malaysia. Despite of this, the findings show that different funds have different responses to the movements of the macroeconomic variables.

Practical implications

The results of the study are of significant importance to the various stakeholders in the Islamic UTF industry. Investors benefit in terms of getting the inputs on their investment decisions as to whether to buy, hold or sell fund units within their investment portfolio in the long run, along with building their optimal portfolio diversification investment strategy, especially in reallocating their assets distribution between the various types of funds in the UTFs industry. For the policy-makers, the findings of the study may assist them in evaluating the suitability of the existing economic policies as to whether they positively or negatively contribute to the development of the Islamic UTFs.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils the need to understand how unit-holders can strategise and diversify their portfolio investments in the Malaysian Islamic UTFs industry based on detailed understanding and knowledge derived from rational and scientific inputs.
Job characteristics affect shared leadership
Authors: Hans Swati , Gupta Ritu
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Shared leadership is characterized by exercising lateral leadership influence depending upon the task and the adroitness required for the task. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of job characteristics on shared leadership and explore the moderating effects of perceived self-efficacy, and psychological safety on the relationship between job characteristics and shared leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors applied hierarchical regression and social network analysis using a sample of 23 teams consisting 219 employees from an Indian-based multinational BPO.

Findings

Results indicate that skill variety, task significance, autonomy and feedback are significant precursors for shared leadership, and psychological safety and perceived self-efficacy act as moderators.

Research limitations/implications

The study extends the literature associated with job characteristics in relation to shared leadership. Managers can encourage shared leadership using job design and by creating a psychologically safe environment to enhance performance of the team. The cross-sectional nature of the study and data from a single organization question the generalizability of the results.

Originality/value

The authors provide an initial understanding of the impact of job characteristics in a team for the development of shared leadership, which has not been studied so far. Also, psychological safety and self-efficacy of individuals in teams have not been explored in the past, moderating the job characteristics and shared leadership relationship.
The role of online freelance stock analysts in correcting overly pessimistic market sentiment
Authors: Kim Myungsun , Kim Robert , Oh Onook , Rao H. Raghav
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of online freelance stock analysts in correcting mispricing of hard-to-value firms during sentiment-driven market periods.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample covers 23,758 Seeking Alpha articles obtained for the period between January 2005 and September 2011. The authors use OLS regressions to test the stock market reaction around Seeking Alpha analysts’ reports. The information in online analysts’ reports is measured by the tone of stock articles posted in SeekingAlpha.com (SA).

Findings

The analysis reveals that the degree of negative tone of their stock articles is related to three-day stock returns around the article posting dates. It further reveals that the relation between these returns and prevailing market sentiment depends on firm-specific susceptibility to the market sentiment. The three-day stock returns are higher during low market sentiment periods for firms that are more susceptible to the market sentiment, hence, harder to value. The tone of the stock articles during low sentiment periods also predicts the news in the forthcoming earnings.

Practical implications

The findings help stock investors identify value-relevant information provided by online freelance stock analysts, particularly for hard-to-value stocks and during the low market sentiment period.

Originality/value

This study utilizes a unique dataset obtained from SA. This is the first paper to examine whether online analysts help investors correct potential undervaluation of hard-to-value firms during the low market sentiment period.
Factors affecting the adoption of multiple climate‐smart agricultural practices in the Indo‐Gangetic Plains of India
Authors: Aryal Jeetendra Prakash , Rahut Dil Bahadur , Maharjan Sofina , Erenstein Olaf
Published: June 2018

Climate change poses a major threat to agricultural production and food security in India, and climate‐smart agriculture (CSA) is crucial in addressing the potential impacts. Using survey data from 1,267 farm households in 25 villages from Bihar and Haryana in the Indo‐Gangetic Plains, this study analyzes the factors that determine the probability and level of adoption of multiple CSA practices, including seeds of stress‐tolerant varieties, minimum tillage, laser land leveling, site‐specific nutrient management and crop diversification. We applied a multivariate probit model for the simultaneous multiple adoption decisions, and ordered probit models for assessing the factors affecting the level of adoption. The adoption of the various CSA practices is interrelated, whereas several factors, including household characteristics, plot characteristics, market access and major climate risks are found to affect the probability and level of CSA adoption. Climate‐smart agriculture (CSA) adoption and its intensity also vary significantly between eastern Bihar, which is relatively poor and densely populated, and north‐western Haryana. Engaging multiple stakeholders such as farmers, agricultural institutions, agricultural service providers and concerned government departments at the local level is crucial for the large‐scale uptake of CSA. The study, therefore, calls for agricultural policy reforms so that most of the issues related to the uptake of CSA can be adequately addressed.
Smaller hippocampal volume following sexual assault in women is associated with post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Quidé Y. , Andersson F. , Dufour‐Rainfray D. , Descriaud C. , Brizard B. , Gissot V. , Cléry H. , Carrey Le Bas M‐P. , Osterreicher S. , Ogielska M. , Saint‐Martin P. , El‐Hage W.
Published: June 2018

Objective

Exposure to sexual assault is a significant risk factor to develop post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in females. The early neurobiological changes leading to the development of PTSD remain understudied and unclear in this population.

Methods

Participants were 27 adult females recruited within a month following exposure to sexual assault (T1) and 20 age‐matched non‐exposed controls. Among the victims, 10 participants met (PTSD+) and 15 did not meet (PTSD−) DSM‐IV criteria for PTSD 6 months post‐trauma (T2). At both visits, hippocampal and amygdala volumes were extracted from magnetic resonance imaging scans, and indices of total diurnal cortisol changes were derived from individual areas under the curve relative to the ground (AUCg). Measures at T1 were compared between groups at T1, measures at T2 between groups at T2, and measures at T1 between groups at T2.

Results

At T1, victims had significantly smaller bilateral hippocampal volumes, but not AUCg, than controls. At T2, neither hippocampal volume nor AUCg significantly differed among the groups. However, the PTSD+ group had significantly smaller hippocampal volumes at T1 than the control group, but not compared to the PTSD− group.

Conclusions

This study indicates that having smaller hippocampal volumes is a risk factor to develop PTSD in females exposed to sexual assault.
Relative bioavailability of bedaquiline tablets suspended in water: Implications for dosing in children
Authors: Svensson Elin M. , du Bois Jeannine , Kitshoff Rene , de Jager Veronique R. , Wiesner Lubbe , Norman Jennifer , Nachman Sharon , Smith Betsy , Diacon Andreas H. , Hesseling Anneke C. , Garcia‐Prats Anthony J.
Published: June 2018

Aims

Bedaquiline is an important novel drug for treatment of multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis, but no paediatric formulation is yet available. This work aimed to explore the possibility of using the existing tablet formulation in children by evaluating the relative bioavailability, short‐term safety, acceptability and palatability of suspended bedaquiline tablets compared to whole tablets.

Methods

A randomized, open‐label, two‐period cross‐over study was conducted in 24 healthy adult volunteers. Rich pharmacokinetic sampling over 48 h was conducted at two occasions 14 days apart in each participant after administration of 400 mg bedaquiline (whole or suspended in water). The pharmacokinetic data were analysed with nonlinear mixed‐effects modelling. A questionnaire was used to assess palatability and acceptability.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in the bioavailability of the suspended bedaquiline tables compared to whole. The nonparametric 95% confidence interval of the relative bioavailability of suspended bedaquiline tablets was 94–108% of that of whole bedaquiline tablets; hence, the predefined bioequivalence criteria were fulfilled. There were no Grade 3 or 4 or serious treatment emergent adverse events recorded in the study and no apparent differences between whole tablets and suspension regarding taste, texture or smell.

Conclusions

The bioavailability of bedaquiline tablets suspended in water was the same as for tablets swallowed whole and the suspension was well tolerated. This suggests that the currently available bedaquiline formulation could be used to treat multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis in children, to bridge the gap between when paediatric dosing regimens have been established and when a paediatric dispersible formulation is routinely available.
Detecting a potential safety signal of antidepressants and type 2 diabetes: a pharmacovigilance‐pharmacodynamic study
Authors: Siafis Spyridon , Papazisis Georgios
Published: June 2018

Aims

Recent data suggest that antidepressants are associated with incident diabetes but the possible pharmacological mechanism is still questioned. The aim of the present study was to evaluate antidepressant's risk for reporting diabetes using disproportionality analysis of the FDA adverse events spontaneous reporting system (FAERS) database and to investigate possible receptor/transporter mechanisms involved.

Methods

Data from 2004 to 2017 were analysed using OpenVigil2 and adjusted reporting odds ratio (aROR) for reporting diabetes was calculated for 22 antidepressants. Events included in the narrow scope of the SMQ ‘hyperglycaemia/new‐onset diabetes mellitus’ were defined as cases and all the other events as non‐cases. The pharmacodynamic profile was extracted using the PDSP and IUPHAR/BPS databases and the occupancy on receptors (serotonin, alpha adrenoreceptors, dopamine, muscarinic, histamine) and transporters (SERT, NET, DAT) was estimated. The relationship between aROR for diabetes and receptor occupancy was investigated with Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) and univariate linear regression.

Results

Six antidepressants were associated with diabetes: nortriptyline with aROR [95% CI] of 2.01 [1.41–2.87], doxepin 1.97 [1.31–2.97], imipramine 1.82 [1.09–3.06], sertraline 1.47 [1.29–1.68], mirtazapine 1.33 [1.04–1.69] and amitriptyline 1.31 [1.09–1.59]. Strong positive correlation coefficients between occupancy and aROR for diabetes were identified for the receptors M1, M3, M4, M5 and H1.

Conclusion

Most of the tricyclic antidepressants, mirtazapine and sertraline seem to be associated with reporting diabetes in FAERS. Higher degrees of occupancy on muscarinic receptors and H1 may be a plausible pharmacological mechanism. Further clinical assessment and pharmacovigilance data is needed to validate this potential safety signal.