bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population specific sperm production in European flounder Platichthys flesus: Adaptation to salinity at spawning
Authors: Nissling Anders , Larsson Roger
Published: June 2018

Marine teleosts inhabiting the brackish Baltic Sea have adapted to the less saline water with activation of spermatozoa at low salinity hypo‐osmotic conditions but with shorter longevity and lower swimming speed that affect the fertilization capacity. Aiming to elucidate if the fertilization capacity may be maintained by increasing the number of spermatozoa produced, testis size for the euryhaline flounder Platichthys flesus with external fertilization was assessed along a salinity gradient; with spawning at a salinity of c. 7, 10–18 and 30–35. Fulton's condition factor K = 0.881 ± 0.085 (mean ± S.D.), 0.833 ± 0.096 and 0.851 ± 0.086, for fish spawning at salinities of c. 7, 10–18 and 30–35, respectively, with no difference between areas, i.e. analysed fish were in similar nutritional condition. A general linear model, with testes dry mass as the dependent variable and somatic mass as covariate resulted in a significant difference between areas–populations with larger testes for P. flesus spawning at a salinity of c. 7 but no difference between fish spawning at a salinity of 10–18 and 30–35. The result suggests that adaptation by increasing the number of spermatozoa produced may be a key mechanism for marine teleosts spawning in areas with low salinities to sustain the fertilization capacity as shown here for the euryhaline P. flesus.
Effect of flood pulses on the trophic ecology of four piscivorous fishes from the eastern Amazon
Authors: Barbosa Thiago A. P. , Rosa Daniela C. O. , Soares Bruno E. , Costa Christophe H. A. , Esposito Maria C. , Montag Luciano F. A.
Published: June 2018

This study investigated the effect of hydrological periods on the feeding activity and trophic interactions of four piscivorous fishes from the middle Xingu River, Brazil: pike‐characidBoulengerella cuvieri, dogtooth characinHydrolycus armatus, dogtooth characinHydrolycus tatauaiaand South American silver croakerPlagioscion squamosissimus. Repletion Index (IR%), Alimentary Index (IAi%) and food web properties were calculated for each species. A total of 825 specimens were collected. TheIRshowed changes in feeding intensity ofB. cuvieri,H. armatusandH. tatauaiaamong hydrological periods. Flood pulse showed no influence on composition and importance of food items consumed. Trophic connections showed that connectivity ranged from 0.025 to 0.038. The highest number of trophic connections (75) occurred in the high‐water period, when 51 food items were recorded and the lowest number of trophic connections (43) occurred in receding water, with 31 food items. In all food webs, over 45% of food items were consumed by only one species (ultra‐peripheral items), which is common in piscivorous fishes.
Change of strategy or always overlooked? Third recent record of the beardless tadpole goby Benthophiloides brauneri from an inland location far from the coast
Authors: Marta Anatol , Kamenshchik Natalia , Toderas Ion
Published: June 2018

The present study documents three specimens of Benthophiloides brauneri from the River Dniester. It is one of the rarest freshwater fishes in Europe, living along the western coast of the Black and Asov Seas, but these new records are 200 river km from the coast. We discuss whether the species has recently started to establish inland populations or inland specimens have previously been overlooked.
Examining the link between dietary specialization and foraging modes of stream‐dwelling brown trout Salmo trutta
Authors: Sánchez‐Hernández Javier , Cobo Fernando
Published: June 2018

The aim of this study was to explore differences in dietary specialization across two foraging modes (benthic v. surface‐drift foraging) of stream‐dwelling brown trout Salmo trutta. The degree of inter‐individual niche variation within each foraging mode was high, but the dietary specialization was maintained between foraging modes. This study supports the view that if aquatic invertebrates are more abundant and accessible than surface prey, the individuals will not specialize on surface prey (surface‐drift foraging).
Regional differences in the feeding of the ambush predator Neosebastes pandus and comparisons of diets in the Scorpaenidae, Triglidae and Platycephalidae
Authors: Greenwell Claire N. , Coulson Peter G. , Tweedley James R. , Loneragan Neil R.
Published: June 2018

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the dietary composition of the ambush predator Neosebastes pandus and compares the diets of 49 species from 39 studies of three benthic predatory families in the Scorpaeniformes: Scorpaenidae (20 species), Triglidae (19 species) and Platycephalidae (10 species). A total of 275 N. pandus were collected from the west (Rottnest Island) and south (Esperance) coasts of south‐western Australia and the percentage frequency and volumetric contribution of the stomach contents identified. Fish from the west coast consumed a greater mean number of broad taxonomic groups and were more diverse in their diet than fish from the south coast. Cephalopods, brachyurans and teleosts were the largest overall contributors to diet, with teleosts being more important to diets of west‐coast fish and polychaetes for south‐coast fish. This reflects differences in habitat between the two locations. Dietary composition also changed with increasing body size, reflecting morphological changes that allow bigger fish to capture and ingest larger, more mobile prey. Meta‐analysis of the diets of 49 species of scorpaenid, triglid and platycephalid revealed that they feed predominantly on teleosts and large crustaceans. Significant differences in diet were detected among families, with platycephalids being the most distinct and feeding more on teleosts than scorpaenids and triglids.
Temporal and spatial differences in smolting among Oncorhynchus nerka populations throughout fresh and seawater migration
Authors: Bassett Marley C. , Patterson David A. , Shrimpton J. Mark
Published: June 2018

Physiological changes that occur in the spring are preparatory for salmonid smolts to successfully enter seawater, but variation is likely to exist within species with a wide geographic distribution. Whether differences in development of seawater tolerance exist among populations that differ in distance to the ocean, temporally during the spring, or as fish migrate downstream is not known. Juvenile sockeye salmon Oncorhynchus nerka from four regions in the Fraser River catchment, British Columbia, were intercepted to assess physiological differences among populations and at different times during migration to characterize the parr–smolt transformation. Pre‐migratory fish had low levels of gill Na+–K+‐ATPase (NKA) activity. High gill NKA activities were observed at the start of migration for some populations, but smolts leaving the lake did not consistently have higher gill NKA activity than non‐migratory juvenile O. nerka sampled in their natal lakes. Gill NKA activity was highly variable at the start of migration with no relationship with distance from the ocean. Gill NKA activity changes with migration were also highly variable, but consistently smolts in the ocean had the highest enzyme activities. Internal and external factors may influence this variation, but the dynamic nature of smolting was not based on the region of origin, timing during migration or on the year of migration.
Is the duration of the smolt window related to migration distance in coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch?
Authors: Elsner Rick A. , Shrimpton J. Mark
Published: June 2018

Physiological changes during the parr–smolt transformation were investigated in short distance (Chilliwack River) and long‐distance (Salmon River) migrating coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch populations in British Columbia, Canada. Biochemical and molecular indicators were used to monitor smolt development for fish reared at 10 °C throughout the spring. Fish grew well and developed the physical appearance of competent smolts. Both populations exhibited increases in gill Na+–K+‐ATPase activity (NKA; an important indicator of seawater tolerance) at the same date and the duration of the increase in enzyme activity did not differ between populations. Gill messenger (m)RNA copies for two isoforms of the NKA α subunit, α1a and α1b, showed significant changes and the pattern was similar between populations. Growth hormone receptor and prolactin receptor mRNA from the gill showed modest changes associated with smolting in the spring for both populations, suggesting that these may not be useful indicators of smolt development in hatchery‐reared O. kisutch. Consequently, the duration of the smolt window was not based on the region of origin in the present study.
Development of a continuous cell line from larval Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) and its use in the study of the microsporidian, Loma morhua
Authors: MacLeod Michael J. , Vo Nguyen T. K. , Mikhaeil Michael S. , Monaghan S. Richelle , Alexander J. Andrew N. , Saran Mandeep K. , Lee Lucy E. J.
Published: June 2018

In vitro cell culture methods are crucial for the isolation, purification and mass propagation of intracellular pathogens of aquatic organisms. Cell culture infection models can yield insights into infection mechanisms, aid in developing methods for disease mitigation and prevention, and inform commercial‐scale cultivation approaches. This study details the establishment of a larval cell line (GML‐5) from the Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) and its use in the study of microsporidia. GML‐5 has survived over 100 passages in 8 years of culture. The line remains active and viable between 8 and 21°C in Leibovitz‐15 (L‐15) media with 10% foetal bovine serum and exhibits a myofibroblast phenotype as indicated by immuno‐positive results for vimentin, α‐smooth muscle actin, collagen I and S‐100 proteins, while being desmin‐negative. GML‐5 supports the infection and development of two microsporidian parasites, an opportunistic generalist (Anncaliia algerae) and cod‐specific Loma morhua. Using GML‐5, spore germination and proliferation of L. morhua was found to require exposure to basic pH and cool incubation temperatures (8°C), in contrast to A. algerae, which required no cultural modifications. Loma morhua‐associated xenoma‐like structures were observed 2 weeks postexposure. This in vitro infection model may serve as a valuable tool for cod parasitology and aquaculture research.
Change in scalding fluids by time in poultry slaughterhouse and its effect on microbiological quality of carcasses
Authors: Incili Gökhan Kürşad , Çalicioğlu Mehmet
Published: June 2018

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of the condition of scalding on the microbiological quality of the chilled carcasses. For this purpose, clean (A) or dirty (B) water was used for scalding, samples were collected in every 30 min for 150 min from each of three scalding tanks (Tank 1, Tank 2, Tank 3), from drips collected after defeathering and inner‐outer bird washing steps, and from chilled carcasses (C). All samples were analyzed for the microbiologically and also physicochemical parameters of scalding fluids. Total aerobic counts significantly increased in all of the scalding tanks as the time progress in both groups A and B. As a result, effect of scalding with clean water on microbiological quality of the broiler carcasses disappeared within the first 30 min, and no meaningful difference was found during the remaining time period.

Practical applications

Scalding is carried out at static water using either clean or dirty water in small or medium‐size broiler slaughterhouses. Organic substances, dry matters, and protein levels in scalding tanks increase by the time and these parameters effects the carcass contamination. In this study, moderate correlation was found between the organic matter level in the scalding tanks and the numbers of coliform bacteria of the carcasses. This correlation between the level of organic matter in the scalding water and coliform bacteria may indicate that this parameter can have a potential to be used as critical limit in plants using clean water‐scalding.
A Comparative Workforce Study of Midwives Practicing in the State of Texas
Authors: Burpo Rebecca H. , Nodine Priscilla M. , Hastings‐Tolsma Marie , Brucker Mary C. , Griggs Jackie , Wilcox Sarah , Camune Barbara D. , Callahan Tiffany
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Access to quality care is a problem in Texas, an ethnically diverse state with large birth numbers. The state has over 300 areas designated as medically underserved, and a severe lack of obstetricians and midwives. Minimal data exist on midwifery's contribution, and no known study compares the work environment and clinical practice of the 2 state‐recognized midwifery paths, licensed midwives (LMs) and certified nurse‐midwives (CNMs). The purpose of this study was to determine the differences in practice by CNMs and LMs, the latter of whom are generally certified professional midwives. The specific aims were to 1) describe the differences in demographic and employment characteristics of CNMs and LMs, 2) identify the geographic areas and population groups served by CNMs and LMs, and 3) compare the nature and scope of CNM and LM clinical practices.

Methods

Online parallel surveys of Texas LMs and CNMs were conducted in December 2015 and January 2016. The REDCap data management system housed the 123‐ and 125‐item surveys for LMs and CNMs, respectively, addressing demographics, populations served, and clinical practice. A comparative statistical analysis, using Fisher's exact test, Pearson's chi‐squared test, and Independent Samples t‐tests, was performed.

Results

The survey response rates of LMs and CNMs were 35.4% (n = 75) and 31.9% (n = 143), respectively. Differences in demographics, employment status, workload, scope of practice, risk assessment, time‐based care management, and technology use were observed.

Discussion

Findings represent the first attempt to describe the Texas midwifery workforce. In a large state with health care provider shortages, this step is pivotal in addressing strategies for providing services for women and infants. This groundwork can provide the foundation for including midwifery in a state health plan.
Can the transverse foramen/vertebral artery ratio of double transverse foramen subjects be a risk for vertebrobasilar transient ischemic attacks?
Authors: Sanchis‐Gimeno Juan A. , Blanco‐Perez Esther , Llido Susanna , Perez‐Bermejo Marcelino , Nalla Shahed , Mata‐Escolano Federico
Published: June 2018

The C6 is the cervical vertebra into which the vertebral artery enters the passage of the transverse foramen and it is the vertebra most affected by double transverse foramina. There is currently little information about the relation between the vertebral artery and the double transverse foramen in C6. We aimed to test whether subjects with a double transverse foramen in C6 have a reduced transverse foramen/vertebral artery ratio when compared with normal anatomy subjects who possess a single transverse foramen which may be a risk for transient vertebral artery stenosis. We measured the area of the transverse foramen and the vertebral artery in 27 double transverse and 56 normal anatomy subjects using computed tomography angiography. We found significant differences in the area of the transverse foramen between double transverse and normal subjects (P < 0.001) but not between the vertebral artery area of double transverse and normal subjects (P = 0.829). The subjects with double transverse foramina have a reduced transverse foramen/vertebral artery ratio, which may be a possible risk for transient vertebral artery stenosis.
“Four Bright Coins Shining at Me”: Financial Education in Childhood, Financial Confidence in Adulthood
Authors: Sansone Dario , Rossi Mariacristina , Fornero Elsa
Published: June 2018

We analyze the relation between receiving an allowance (pocket money) in childhood and financial confidence in adulthood. We measure this confidence using self‐reported financial knowledge. Our empirical exercise is based on information provided by a Dutch survey carried out in 2015. We compute our estimates by controlling for parental attitudes and by using a “within‐family” fixed effect model. The results are robust and suggest a long‐lasting effect of pocket money as an easily implementable and informal educational vehicle to help children acquire basic financial concepts and develop good habits, such as budgeting.
Narrow Framing and Retirement Savings Decisions
Authors: Shin Serah , Kim Hyungsoo , Heath Claudia J.
Published: June 2018

Theoretical studies suggest narrow framing underlies individuals' saving decisions. When narrow framing is applied to retirement savings decisions, narrow framers tend to make decisions about present consumption without considering future consumption, i.e., saving for consumption in retirement. Time preference for the present and narrow framers' preference to maintain the status quo lead to a decision that is less likely to increase savings for retirement. This study provides empirical evidence that narrow framing bias affects retirement savings decisions. Using a two‐part model, the probit estimation indicates narrow framers anticipated being less willing to increase retirement savings contributions compared to broad framers, and the OLS regression estimates that narrow framers anticipated contributing less than broad framers. Here, narrow framers anticipated being less willing to increase retirement savings (62.6% vs. 71.9%) and contributing less ($70.90 vs. $88.40) than broad framers, thus providing empirical evidence regarding the effects of behavioral biases on financial decisions.
Transorbital Sonography for Early Prognostication of Hypoxic‐Ischemic Encephalopathy After Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Ertl Michael , Weber Sarah , Hammel Gertrud , Schroeder Christoph , Krogias Christos
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Early prognostication of the outcome in resuscitated post cardiac arrest (CA) patients remains challenging especially if treated with therapeutic hypothermia. Brain edema caused by hypoxic‐ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) can indirectly be estimated by transorbital sonography (TOS) taking in account the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD). The prognostic value of this easy, safe, and reproducible technique was investigated in this study.

METHODS

A total of 49 patients, initially unconscious (Glasgow Coma Scale ≤6) after successful resuscitation, were enrolled into this prospective observational study. Sonographic ONSD measurements were performed twice on day of admission (day 0) and once on days 1 and 2 after CA. Beyond ONSD, established prognostic parameters like neuron specific enolase and gray‐white matter ratios were assessed. Cerebral Performance Category (CPC) score served as outcome parameter.

RESULTS

A total of 15 (31.3%) patients had a good outcome (CPC‐score 1–2), 8 patients (14.6%) had severe disability (CPC‐score 3–4), and 26 (54.2%) had a fatal outcome (CPC‐score 5). Already in the first measurement on day 0, nonsurvivors showed significantly higher ONSD values (P < .001). For predicting mortality, a threshold of 5.75 mm was calculated with a specificity of 100%. ONSD did not differ significantly depending on hypothermia (P = .7009).

CONCLUSION

Early and reliable prognostication of outcomes in patients with HIE can be simplified by ONSD values gathered with the use of TOS. Main advantages compared to other established markers are prognostication within the first 24 hours and independence from therapy with hypothermia. A higher level of accuracy can be reached by combining computed tomography (gray‐to‐white matter ratio values) and ONSD values.
How the Variations of the Thickness in Ceramic Restorations of Lithium Disilicate and the Use of Different Photopolymerizers Influence the Degree of Conversion of the Resin Cements: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Martins Felipe V. , Vasques Wesley F. , Fonseca Edgard M.
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this meta‐analysis was to evaluate how the thickness variations in ceramic restorations of lithium disilicate and the use of different photopolymerizers influence the degree of conversion of the resin cements.

Methods

This study was performed according to the PRISMA checklist. The bibliographic research was performed to identify in vitro studies until December 2017 in the databases MEDLINE via PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. The selected studies were submitted to bias risk assessment. In the meta‐analysis the data were evaluated using Review Manager Software v.5.3, with random‐effect model at a 5% significance level.

Results

The meta‐analysis in this study showed that despite the translucency of lithium disilicate, significant reduction of light was observed when activated through the ceramic. The degree of conversion was higher in the control groups in which the resin cement was photopolymerized without the interposition of the ceramic material.

Conclusions

The thinner the ceramic material, the higher the degree of conversion. A thickness greater than 1.0 mm drastically reduces the degree of conversion of dual‐curing or light‐curing resins. The curing unit with irradiance of 3200 to 3505 mW/cm2 showed improvements in conversion values.
Evaluating the effect of metronidazole plus amoxicillin‐clavulanate versus amoxicillin‐clavulanate alone in canine haemorrhagic diarrhoea: a randomised controlled trial in primary care practice
Authors: Ortiz V. , Klein L. , Channell S. , Simpson B. , Wright B. , Edwards C. , Gilbert R. , Day R. , Caddy S. L.
Published: June 2018

Objectives

To investigate the benefit of supplementing amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid therapy with metronidazole in dogs presenting to a primary care veterinary practice with severe haemorrhagic diarrhoea.

Materials and Methods

Prospective randomised blinded trial on dogs presenting with haemorrhagic diarrhoea of less than 3 days duration to a primary care veterinary hospital and also requiring intravenous fluid therapy. Cases were randomised to receive either metronidazole or saline, in addition to standard supportive therapy consisting of amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid, intravenous fluid therapy, buprenorphine and omeprazole. Treatment efficacy was measured by duration of hospitalisation and daily scoring of disease severity.

Results

Thirty‐four cases successfully completed the trial. There was no significant difference in hospitalisation time between treatment groups (mean for dogs receiving metronidazole was 29.6 hours and for controls was 26.3 hours) nor in daily clinical scores.

Clinical Significance

This study strongly suggests that addition of metronidazole is not an essential addition to amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid therapy for treatment of severe cases of haemorrhagic diarrhoea in dogs.
Religious Involvement and Substance Use Among Urban Mothers
Authors: Burdette Amy M. , Hill Terrence D. , Webb Noah S. , Ford Jason A. , Haynes Stacy H.
Published: June 2018

Although numerous cross‐sectional studies suggest that religious involvement is associated with lower rates of substance use, it is unclear whether these protective effects can be observed over time with more rigorous longitudinal designs. In this study, we use longitudinal data from the U.S. Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (n = 3,176) to test whether indicators of religious involvement are protective against illicit drug use and prescription drug misuse among mothers who are primarily single and of low socioeconomic status. Our results show that religious involvement at baseline is unrelated to prescription drug misuse at follow‐up. We also find that religious attendance at baseline reduces the odds of illicit drug use at follow‐up. Respondents who increased their level of religious attendance over the study period also tended to exhibit a concurrent reduction in the odds of illicit drug use. Although prior substance use was unrelated to changes in religious attendance, prior illicit drug use and prescription drug misuse were associated with a reduction in religious salience over the study period.
Influence of genetic variants on childhood lung function – The Generation R Study
Authors: Shagiwal Sara S. , den Dekker Herman T. , de Jongste Johan C. , Brusselle Guy G. , Jaddoe Vincent W. V. , Felix Janine F. , Duijts Liesbeth
Published: June 2018

Genetic variants associated with adult lung function could already exert the effects on childhood lung function. We aimed to examine the associations of adult lung function‐related genetic variants with childhood lung function and asthma, and whether these associations were modified by atopic predisposition, tobacco smoke exposure, or early growth characteristics. In a population‐based prospective cohort study among 3347 children, we selected 7 and 20 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with adult forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and FEV1/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC), respectively. Weighted genetic risk scores (GRSs) for FEV1 and FEV1/FVC were constructed. At age 10, FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC, forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% (FEF25‐75), and forced expiratory flow at 75% (FEF75) of FVC were measured, and information on asthma was obtained by parental‐reported questionnaires. The FEV1‐GRS was associated with lower childhood FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and FEF75 (Z‐score (95% CI): −0.03 (−0.05, −0.01), −0.03 (−0.05, −0.01), and −0.04 (−0.05, −0.01), respectively, per additional risk allele). The FEV1/FVC‐GRS was associated with lower childhood FEV1/FVC and FEF75 (Z‐score (95% CI): −0.04 (−0.05, −0.03) and −0.03 (−0.05, −0.02), respectively, per additional risk allele). Effect estimates of FEV1‐GRS with FEF25‐75, FEV1, FEF75, and FVC, and of FEV1/FVC‐GRS with FEV1/FVC and FEF25‐75 were stronger among children exposed to non‐atopic mothers, smoking during pregnancy or in childhood, or those born with a lower birthweight, respectively (P‐values for interaction < .05). Genetic risk scores were not associated with asthma. Adult lung function‐related genetic variants were associated with childhood lung function. Maternal atopy, smoking during pregnancy or in childhood, and birthweight modified the observed effects.
Palaeobiogeographical distribution of Smithian (Early Triassic) ammonoid faunas within the western USA basin and its controlling parameters
Authors: Jattiot Romain , Brayard Arnaud , Bucher Hugo , Vennin Emmanuelle , Caravaca GwénaËl , Jenks James F. , Bylund Kevin G. , Escarguel Gilles
Published: June 2018

We present the first quantitative palaeobiogeographical analysis in terms of distribution and abundance of Early Triassic ammonoids from the western USA basin during the Smithian, c. 1 myr after the Permian–Triassic boundary mass extinction. The faunal dataset consists of a taxonomically homogenized compilation of spatial and temporal occurrences and abundances from 27 sections distributed within the western USA basin. Two complementary multivariate techniques were applied to identify the main biogeographical structuring recorded in the analysed presence/absence data: additive cluster analysis using the neighbor‐joining algorithm (NJ) and non‐metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS). Regarding abundance data, a taxonomic diversity (sensu evenness) analysis was coupled with graphical comparisons of relative abundances of selected taxa. The identified relationships indicate that middle Smithian ammonoids of the western USA basin were geographically organized in terms of both distribution and abundance, with the biogeographical distinction of a southern and a northern cluster. This N–S structuring in the distribution and abundance of middle Smithian ammonoids is notably paralleled by the relative amount of siliciclastics, which suggests that clastic load of the water column was a major controlling factor. In marked contrast with the middle Smithian, the studied late Smithian ammonoid assemblages do not show any significant differences, whatever the depositional environment. This abrupt biogeographical homogenization, independent from intrabasinal facies heterogeneity, indicates a switch from regional to global drivers, associated with the well‐known late Smithian global extinction and remarkable cosmopolitan ammonoid distributions during that time.
Low‐dose dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to propofol infusion for children in MRI: A double‐cohort study
Authors: Nagoshi Makoto , Reddy Swayta , Bell Marisa , Cresencia Allan , Margolis Rebecca , Wetzel Randall , Ross Patrick
Published: June 2018

Introduction

Propofol is an effective sedative for magnetic resonance imaging. Nevertheless, it may cause hemodynamic and respiratory complications in a dose dependent fashion. We investigated the role of low‐dose dexmedetomidine (0.5 μg/kg) as an adjuvant to propofol sedation for children undergoing magnetic resonance imaging. We hypothesized that dexmedetomidine would decrease the propofol dose required, airway complications, and hemodynamic instability.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of patients’ age of 1 month to 20 years. Children were divided into 2 groups; group P received only propofol; group D + P received intravenous bolus of dexmedetomidine (0.5 μg/kg) and propofol.

Results

We reviewed 172 children in P and 129 in D + P (dexmedetomidine dose, median: 0.50 μg/kg (IQR: 0.45‐0.62). An additional dexmedetomidine bolus was given to 17 children for sedation lasting longer than 2 hours. Total propofol dose (μg/kg/min) was significantly higher in group P than D + P; 215.0 (182.6‐253.8) vs 147.6 (127.5‐180.9); Median Diff = −67.8; 95%CI = −80.6, −54.9; P < .0001. There was no difference in recovery time (minutes); P: 28 (17‐39) vs D + P: 27 (18‐41); Median Diff = −1; 95%CI = −6.0, 4.0; P = .694. The need for airway support was significantly greater in P compared to D + P; 15/172 vs 3/129; OR = 0.25; 95%CI = 0.07 to 0.90; P = .02 (2‐sample proportions test). Mean arterial pressure was significantly lower in P compared to D + P across time over 60 minutes after induction (coef = −0.06, 95%CI = −0.11, −0.02, P = .004).

Discussion & Conclusion

A low‐dose bolus of dexmedetomidine (0.5 μg/kg) used as an adjuvant can decrease the propofol requirement for children undergoing sedation for magnetic resonance imaging. This may decrease the need for airway support and contribute to improved hemodynamic stability without prolonging recovery time.
The Ayre's T‐piece turns 80: A 21st century review
Authors: Oswald Lauren , Smith Emma‐Jane , Mathew Malcolm , Goonasekera Chulananda
Published: June 2018

Ayre's T‐piece, first introduced 80 years ago, continues to be widely used in pediatric anesthesia despite colossal advances in equipment and technology. We present a review of its history, advantages, and disadvantages, and place in modern‐day clinical practice.
Non‐mammalian Hosts and Photobiomodulation: Do All Life‐forms Respond to Light?
Authors: Hamblin Michael R. , Huang Ying‐Ying , Heiskanen Vladimir
Published: June 2018

Photobiomodulation (PBM), also known as low‐level laser (light) therapy, was discovered over 50 years ago, but only recently has it been making progress toward wide acceptance. PBM originally used red and near‐infrared (NIR) lasers, but now other wavelengths and non‐coherent light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) are being explored. The almost complete lack of side effects makes the conduction of controlled clinical trials relatively easy. Laboratory research has mainly concentrated on mammalian cells (normal or cancer) in culture, and small rodents (mice and rats) as models of different diseases. A sizeable body of work was carried out in the 1970s and 1980s in Russia looking at various bacterial and fungal cells. The present review covers some of these studies and a recent number of papers that have applied PBM to so‐called “model organisms.” These models include flies (Drosophila), worms (Caenorhabditis elegans), fish (zebrafish) and caterpillars (Galleria). Much knowledge about the genomics and proteomics, and many reagents for these organisms already exist. They are inexpensive to work with and have lower regulatory barriers compared to vertebrate animals. Other researchers have studied different models (snails, sea urchins, Paramecium, toads, frogs and chickens). Plants may respond to NIR light differently from visible light (photosynthesis and photomorphogenesis) but PBM in plants has not been much studied. Veterinarians routinely use PBM to treat non‐mammalian patients. The conclusion is that red or NIR light does indeed have significant biologic effects conserved over many different kingdoms, and perhaps it is true that “all life‐forms respond to light.”
A Bioscreening Technique for Ultraviolet Irradiation Protective Natural Substances
Authors: Tienaho Jenni , Poikulainen Emmi , Sarjala Tytti , Muilu‐Mäkelä Riina , Santala Ville , Karp Matti
Published: June 2018

Ultraviolet radiation (UV‐R) causes genotoxic and aging effects on skin, and sunscreens are used to alleviate the damage. However, sunscreens contain synthetic shielding agents that can cause harmful effects in the environment. Nature‐derived substances may have potential as replacement materials for the harmful sunscreen chemicals. However, screening of a broad range of samples is tedious, and often requires a separate genotoxicity assessment. We describe a simple microplate technique for the screening of UV protective substances using a recombinant Escherichia coli biosensor. Both absorbance‐based and bioactivity‐based shields can be detected with simultaneous information about the sample genotoxicity. With this technique, a controversial sunscreen compound, oxybenzone offers physical or absorbance‐based shield but appears genotoxic at higher concentrations (3.3 mg/mL). We also demonstrate that pine needle extract (PiNe) shields the biosensor from UV‐R in a dose‐dependent manner without showing genotoxicity. The physical shield of 5 mg/mL PiNe was similar to that of one of the most common UV‐shielding compound TiO2 concentration 0.80 mg/mL. The bioactivity‐based shield of PiNe also reaches the extent of the physical shield with the highest concentration (3.3 mg/mL). We conclude that our technique is suitable in detecting the UV‐shielding potential of natural substances, and gives simultaneous information on genotoxicity.
Prevalence of edentulism among adults with intellectual disabilities: A narrative review informed by systematic review principles
Authors: Mac Giolla Phadraig Caoimhin , Nunn June , McCallion Philip , McCarron Mary
Published: June 2018

Aim

This review reports the prevalence of edentulism among adults with intellectual disabilities (IDs) in the literature.

Methods

A systematic search strategy led to the screening of 1,089 titles and abstracts from PubMed and six additional articles. Inclusion criteria were applied. An estimate of the prevalence of edentulism was calculated.

Results

Nineteen studies (from 20 publications) met inclusion criteria: eighteen were cross‐sectional surveys. Sample sizes ranged from 50 to 9,620 (n = 23,853). Samples were heterogeneous, with four studies drawing from Special Olympics Special Smiles (n = 14,862); nine from institutions (n = 2,447); five from disability registers (n = 1,812) and one patient cohort (n = 4,732). By pooling the participants of all the studies reviewed, 6.6% of people with IDs were found to be edentulous. This is similar to the general population. This conceals the fact that the prevalence of edentulism varied greatly across studies (0–50%), by age and across sampling techniques adopted.

Conclusions

Much like for the general population, edentulism should be seen as a key measure of disease experience and management. Such focus is needed to reduce the prevalence of edentulism for people with IDs globally. This can only be measured by adopting representative samples, which include people with IDs.
Quality of life among people with psychiatric disabilities attending community‐based day centres or Clubhouses
Authors: Hultqvist Jenny , Markström Urban , Tjörnstrand Carina , Eklund Mona
Published: June 2018

Background

People with psychiatric disability have been found to have a poorer quality of life (QOL) compared to the general population, and QOL is an important outcome from psychosocial rehabilitation.

Aims

This study aimed at comparing users of two approaches to psychosocial rehabilitation in Sweden, community‐based mental health day centres (DCs) and clubhouses, regarding QOL. A further aim was to investigate predictors of QOL.

Methods

People regularly attending DCs (n = 128) or clubhouses (n = 57) completed questionnaires at baseline and a 9‐month follow‐up about socio‐demographics, QOL, self‐esteem, social network, satisfaction with daily occupations, satisfaction with services and the unit's organisation.

Results

Quality of life remained stable over time in both groups. QOL at follow‐up was associated with baseline self‐esteem, social network, satisfaction with daily occupations and QOL at baseline. The strongest indicator of a higher QOL at follow‐up was attending a clubhouse programme followed by having scored high on QOL at baseline.

Conclusion

Both approaches were suited for supporting their users in maintaining QOL. Visiting clubhouses seems, however, advantageous for QOL in a longer‐term perspective. Although this study contributed some new knowledge, research should further address which circumstances are associated with maintaining stability in QOL.
“FIFA 11 for Health” for Europe in the Faroe Islands: Effects on health markers and physical fitness in 10‐ to 12‐year‐old schoolchildren
Authors: Skoradal M.‐B. , Purkhús E. , Steinholm H. , Olsen M. H. , Ørntoft C. , Larsen M. N. , Dvorak J. , Mohr M. , Krustrup P.
Published: June 2018

We evaluated effects of the school‐based intervention “FIFA 11 for Health” for Europe on health and fitness profile in 10‐ to 12‐year‐old Faroese schoolchildren. 392 fifth‐grade children were randomized into a control group (CG: n = 100, 11.1 ± 0.3 years, 149.0 ± 6.7 cm, 42.4 ± 10.2 kg) and an intervention group (IG: n = 292, 11.1 ± 0.3 years, 150.6 ± 6.9 cm, 44.2 ± 9.4 kg). IG underwent an 11‐week intervention in which 2 weekly sessions of 45 minutes were included in the school curriculum focusing on health aspects, football skills, and 3v3 small‐sided games. CG continued with their regular activities. Body composition, blood pressure, and resting heart rate, as well as Yo‐Yo intermittent recovery children’s test (YYIR1C) performance, horizontal jumping ability and postural balance were assessed pre and post intervention. Systolic blood pressure decreased more (−2.8 ± 9.9 vs 2.9 ± 8.4 mm Hg, P < .05) in IG than in CG. Lean body mass (1.0 ± 1.7 vs 0.7 ± 1.6 kg), postural balance (0.3 ± 3.9 vs −1.2 ± 5.9 seconds) and horizontal jump performance (5 ± 9 vs ‐5 ± 10 cm) increased more (P < .05) in IG than in CG. YYIR1C performance improved in CG (17%, 625 ± 423 to 730 ± 565 m) and IG (18%, 689 ± 412 vs 813 ± 391 m), but without between‐group differences. A within‐group decrease from 23.1 ± 8.4 to 22.5 ± 8.3% (P < .05) was observed in body fat percentage in IG only. In conclusion, the “FIFA 11 for Health” for Europe program had beneficial effects on SBP, body composition, jump performance and postural balance in 10‐ to 12‐year‐old Faroese schoolchildren, supporting the notion that school‐based football interventions can facilitate health of children in a small‐scale society and serve as an early step in the prevention of non‐communicable diseases.
Incidence and risk factors for back pain in young floorball and basketball players: A Prospective study
Authors: Rossi M. K. , Pasanen K. , Heinonen A. , Myklebust G. , Kannus P. , Kujala U. M. , Tokola K. , Parkkari J.
Published: June 2018

The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of back pain in young basketball and floorball players under 21 years of age. The secondary aim was to examine risk factors especially for low back pain (LBP). Nine basketball and nine floorball teams (n = 396) participated in this prospective follow‐up study (2011‐2014). Young athletes (mean age 15.8 ± 1.9) performed physical tests and completed a questionnaire at baseline. The follow‐up lasted 1‐3 years per player. During the follow‐up, back pain reported by the players was registered on a weekly basis and verified by a study physician. The exposure time (AE) on team practices and games was recorded by the coach. Altogether back pain was reported 61 times by 51 players. The incidence of back pain was 87 per 1000 athlete‐years and 0.4 per 1000 hours of AE. Hamstrings, quadriceps and iliopsoas extensibility and general joint hypermobility were not associated with LBP. Furthermore, no association between LBP and leg extension strength or isometric hip abduction strength asymmetry was found in these young basketball and floorball players. In conclusion, back pain can lead to a considerable time‐loss from training and competition among young basketball and floorball players and the pain tends to reoccur. Lower extremity muscle extensibility, general joint hypermobility or investigated lower extremity strength measures were not associated with the risk of LBP.
Influence of averaging method on muscle deoxygenation interpretation during repeated‐sprint exercise
Authors: Rodriguez R. F. , Townsend N. E. , Aughey R. J. , Billaut F.
Published: June 2018

Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a common tool used to study oxygen availability and utilization during repeated‐sprint exercise. However, there are inconsistent methods of smoothing and determining peaks and nadirs from the NIRS signal, which make interpretation and comparisons between studies difficult. To examine the effects of averaging method on deoxyhaemoglobin concentration ([HHb]) trends, nine males performed ten 10‐s sprints, with 30 seconds of recovery, and six analysis methods were used for determining peaks and nadirs in the [HHb] signal. First, means were calculated over predetermined windows in the last 5 and 2 seconds of each sprint and recovery period. Second, moving 5‐seconds and 2‐seconds averages were also applied, and peaks/nadirs were determined for each 40‐seconds sprint/recovery cycle. Third, a Butterworth filter was used to smooth the signal, and the resulting signal output was used to determine peaks and nadirs from predetermined time points and a rolling approach. Correlation and residual analysis showed that the Butterworth filter attenuated the “noise” in the signal, while maintaining the integrity of the raw data (r = .9892; mean standardized residual −9.71 × 103 ± 3.80). Means derived from predetermined windows, irrespective of length and data smoothing, underestimated the magnitude of peak and nadir [HHb] compared to a rolling mean approach. Consequently, sprint‐induced metabolic changes (inferred from Δ[HHb]) were underestimated. Based on these results, we suggest using a digital filter to smooth NIRS data, rather than an arithmetic mean, and a rolling approach to determine peaks and nadirs for accurate interpretation of muscle oxygenation trends.
Establishment of genetically encoded biosensors for cytosolic boric acid in plant cells
Authors: Fukuda Makiha , Wakuta Shinji , Kamiyo Jio , Fujiwara Toru , Takano Junpei
Published: June 2018

Boron (B) is an essential micronutrient for plants. To maintain B concentration in tissues at appropriate levels, plants use boric acid channels belonging to the NIP subfamily of aquaporins and BOR borate exporters. To regulate B transport, these transporters exhibit different cell‐type specific expression, polar localization, and B‐dependent post‐transcriptional regulation. Here, we describe the development of genetically encoded biosensors for cytosolic boric acid to visualize the spatial distribution and temporal dynamics of B in plant tissues. The biosensors were designed based on the function of the NIP5;1 5′‐untranslated region (UTR), which promotes mRNA degradation in response to an elevated cytosolic boric acid concentration. The signal intensities of the biosensor coupled with Venus fluorescent protein and a nuclear localization signal (uNIP5;1‐Venus) showed negative correlation with intracellular B concentrations in cultured tobacco BY‐2 cells. When expressed in Arabidopsis thaliana, uNIP5;1‐Venus enabled the quantification of B distribution in roots at single‐cell resolution. In mature roots, cytosolic B levels in stele were maintained under low B supply, while those in epidermal, cortical, and endodermal cells were influenced by external B concentrations. Another biosensor coupled with a luciferase protein fused to a destabilization PEST sequence (uNIP5;1‐Luc) was used to visualize changes in cytosolic boric acid concentrations. Thus, uNIP5;1‐Venus/Luc enables visualization of B transport in various plant cells/tissues.
An ecophysiologically based mapping model identifies a major pleiotropic QTL for leaf growth trajectories of Phaseolus vulgaris
Authors: Wei Kun , Wang Jing , Sang Mengmeng , Zhang Shilong , Zhou Houchao , Jiang Libo , Clavijo Michelangeli Jose A. , Vallejos C. Eduardo , Wu Rongling
Published: June 2018

Crop modeling, a widely used tool to predict plant growth and development in heterogeneous environments, has been increasingly integrated with genetic information to improve its predictability. This integration can also shed light on the mechanistic path that connects the genotype to a particular phenotype under specific environments. We implemented a bivariate statistical procedure to map and identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) that can predict the form of plant growth by estimating cultivar‐specific growth parameters and incorporating these parameters into a mapping framework. The procedure enables the characterization of how QTLs act differently in response to developmental and environmental cues. We used this procedure to map growth parameters of leaf area and mass in a mapping population of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Different sets of QTLs are responsible for various aspects of growth, including the initiation time of growth, growth rate, inflection point and asymptotic growth. A major QTL of a large effect was identified to pleiotropically affect trait expression in distinct environments and different traits expressed on the same organism. The integration of crop models and QTL mapping through our statistical procedure provides a powerful means of building a more precise predictive model of genotype‐phenotype relationships for crops.