bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Redistribution within retinal layers of the central fovea in preterms with developmental arrest
Authors: Sjöstrand J. , Popovic Z.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The aim of this study was to characterize thickness changes of foveal layers in preterms with or without signs of immaturity compared to control subjects through analysis of optical coherence tomography (OCT) B‐scan images.

Methods

Selected eyes from 8 young adults with a history of prematurity (24‐33 weeks of gestation) and 5 controls were imaged using conventional and directional OCT. Retinal layer thickness analysis was performed at selected temporal eccentricities defined by the individual distance between two landmarks for each case, the foveal center (FC) and the foveal rim (R).

Results

The use of an FC/R landmark transformation enabled comparisons of thickness profiles and area calculations from inter‐individual B‐scans at corresponding landmark positions in both controls and preterms. Reflectometric and manual segmentation measurements showed increased thickness of inner retinal layers (IRL) and photoreceptor cell body and axon/pedicle layers within the central fovea. Thickness and areal differences between controls and preterms with signs of developmental arrest showed a marked redistribution of IRL and the layers of photoreceptor cell bodies, axons and pedicles/synapses within the central fovea. This is in line with incomplete displacement of these layers from the foveal center. Since no changes of photoreceptor inner and outer segment thickness were observed the maturation of the photoreceptor segment layers seems to be within normal limits.

Conclusions

Our landmark‐based analysis of OCT images using reflectometry and manual segmentation provides complementary findings in comparisons of normal and immature foveal structures. The thickness increase in the outer nuclear, Henle fiber, outer plexiform and post‐receptor layers in preterms with signs of arrested foveal development indicate a marked redistribution of cells.
Correlations of retinal thickness with frequency‐doubling technology perimetry in older healthy subjects
Authors: Perez Carrasco M.J. , Palomo‐Alvarez C. , Chozas‐Enrique J. , Gómez‐García S. , Ayala‐Ayerbes M. , Puell M.C.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

To evaluate correlations of macular and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness with frequency‐doubling technology (FDT) perimetry in older healthy subjects.

Methods

The observational, transversal, and comparative study examined 65 healthy eyes of 33 young subjects (22.0 ± 2.1 years) and 32 older subjects (62.2 ± 3.9 years). All eyes underwent inner and outer macular‐segmentation (Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study macular regions) and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness measurements using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (iVue SD‐OCT), and the FDT testing with N‐20 full‐threshold protocol.

Results

The fovea thickness decreased in the inner retina (p = 0.03), and increased in the outer retina (p = 0.025) in the older group. The inner macular‐segment of the 3 mm zone was thinner (p = 0.002) in the older subjects. The 5 mm zones of inner and outer macular‐segments and pRNFL thickness showed no significant differences with age. The FDT sensitivity was significantly lower in the older group, but the mean of mean deviation (MD) and pattern standard deviation (PSD) were not significantly different between age groups. PSD values were within the normal limit range (0‐6 dB) in both groups. Only the PSD of FDT showed a significant negative correlation (R = ‐0.387, p = 0.028) with the outer macular‐segment thickness of the peripheral ring in older subjects.

Conclusions

The FDT pattern standard deviation increased as the outer macular‐segment thickness of peripheral ring decreased in healthy older subjects.
Efficacy of tumour necrosis factor inhibitors in peripheral ulcerative keratitis in Granulomatosis with polyangiitis
Authors: Verly E. , De Kock J. , Leroy B.P. , Sys C. , De Schryver I.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

To report the efficacy of TNFi (tumour necrosis factor inhibitor), as a treatment of therapy‐resistant peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) in granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), formerly known as Wegener granulomatosis.

Methods

Observational report about 2 cases, known with the diagnosis of GPA, presenting with therapy‐resistant PUK.

Results

2 middle‐aged females, known with GPA were referred to our department with a history of chronic redness resistant to local corticosteroids. Both patients showed a unilateral limbal vasculitis with necrotizing keratitis on slit lamp examination. In the first case, the diagnosis of GPA was confirmed by positive anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) and nasal septum biopsy. In the second case, the clinical presentation was considered as a viral keratitis due to recurrent unilateral inflammation. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) could not confirm the viral aetiology. Extensive systemic evaluation revealed a cervical lymphadenopathy on PET‐CT scan. Serology was positive for ANCA. In both cases, the PUK was nonresponsive to systemic corticosteroids. In the first case, cyclophosphamide failed to control the inflammation. Because the risk of corneal perforation, a treatment with TNFi, respectively Infliximab and Adalimumab, were successfully initiated.

Conclusions

Potentially lethal, it is important to diagnose and treat GPA urgently. Recently, TNFi were reported to be effective in the treatment of therapy‐resistant GPA. Both patients were refractory to conventional immunomodulatory therapy. Infliximab and adalimumab successfully controlled the inflammation with disappearance of necrotic foci. In our experience, TNFi are a safe and effective therapeutic strategy.
A case of recurrent bilateral optic oedema in tubulo‐interstitial nephritis and uveitis syndrome treated with plasmapheresis
Authors: Dhaese S. , Dehoorne J. , Willemot J.B. , Sys C. , Leroy B.P. , Vande Walle J. , De Schryver I.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

To present a case of recurrent bilateral optic oedema in a patient with tubulo‐interstitial nephritis and uveitis syndrome (TINU) with a limited response to corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs and tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi). Plasmapheresis was added as rescue therapy.

Methods

Observational case report about a 13‐year‐old boy diagnosed with TINU and bilateral optic oedema. An extensive general and ophthalmological work‐up confirmed the diagnosis of TINU.

Results

At referral the patient presented with bilateral anterior uveitis and nephritis. Biomicroscopy showed a trace of anterior chamber cells. Funduscopy revealed bilateral optic oedema with neither haemorrhages nor exudates. Initially the patient responded well to systemic corticosteroids but he relapsed while tapering. Consecutive treatment consisted of azathioprine, tacrolimus and methotrexate. Due to limited response, infliximab, a TNFi, was associated. After 7 months disease‐free, the TNFi treatment failed. Finally, he responded well to plasmapheresis.

Conclusions

TINU may rarely manifest with optic oedema. Although nephritis typically resolves, ocular inflammation often becomes chronic and can be therapy‐resistant. This case suggests that plasmapheresis can be an alternative in case of a therapy‐resistant TINU. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to confirm the diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.
A new model of fundus autofluorescence time evolution in multiple evanescent white dot syndrome
Authors: Sojka‐Leszczyńska P. , Leszczyński B. , Kubicka‐Trząska A. , Romanowska‐Dixon B.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Fundus Autofluorescence proved to be a valuable non‐invasive tool for Multiple Evanescent White Dot Syndrome evaluation. Until now several models describing time evolution of the Fundus Autofluorescence in MEWDS have been proposed.

The aim of our study is to present a new model of the Fundus Autofluorescence evaluation based on four examinations in a 56‐year‐old patient during a 3 months follow‐up period.

Methods

Fundus Autofluorescence images were captured by HRA Spectralis Heidelberg Engineering Imaging System. The ImageJ image analysis software was used for image denoising by median filtering. We have applied Otsu's multilevel tresholding method for image segmentation to distinguish and differentiate autofluorescent areas from normal fundus.

Results

We have observed two levels of fluorescence intensity in the analyzed images. Bright fluorescence areas changed significantly with recovery time. Overall fluorescence areas changed to a lesser extent ‐ the areas were shrinking centripetally with functional improvement.

Conclusions

Combination of Fundus Autofluorescence with image analysis methods brings us quantitative data, facilitating the trend analysis.
Predictors of depressive symptoms among psychiatric nurses who suffered from workplace violence
Authors: Hsieh Hsiu‐Fen , Wang Hsiu‐Hung , Shen Shu‐Hua , Li Yu‐Chi
Published: September 2017

Aims

We examined the possible factors that contributed to or prevented developing depressive symptoms among psychiatric nurses who suffered from workplace violence under Hill's ABC‐X Model.

Background

Workplace violence‐related depressive symptoms are some of the major causes leading to impaired quality of life of victims and a heavy burden on society.

Design

This is a cross‐sectional and correlational study.

Method

All participants were recruited from psychiatric wards of six hospitals in Taiwan. The data were collected through structured questionnaires from October 2013–March 2014 and a total of 278 psychiatric wards nurses participated in this study and completed all questionnaires. Logistic regression was used to examine the relationships among types and severity of violence, social support and depressive symptoms.

Results

Of assaulted psychiatric ward nurses, 75.9% had depressive symptoms and those with higher family support had significantly lower depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Family support plays the most important role among assaulted psychiatric ward nurses as a protective factor against developing depressive symptoms in this study.
The classic signalling and trans‐signalling of interleukin‐6 are both injurious in podocyte under high glucose exposure
Authors: Lei Chun‐Tao , Su Hua , Ye Chen , Tang Hui , Gao Pan , Wan Cheng , He Fang‐Fang , Wang Yu‐Mei , Zhang Chun
Published: September 2017

Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) is a multifunctional cytokine that employs IL‐6 classic and trans‐signalling pathways, and these two signal channels execute different or even opposite effects in certain diseases. As a cardinal event of diabetic kidney disease (DKD), whether the podocyte abnormalities are associated with IL‐6 signalling, especially classic or trans‐signalling respectively, remains unclear. In this study, we identified that the circulatory IL‐6, soluble IL‐6R (sIL‐6R) and soluble glycoprotein 130 (sgp130) levels are elevated in patients with DKD. The expressions of membrane‐bound IL‐6R (mIL‐6R), sIL‐6R and gp130 are enhanced in kidney cortex of diabetic mice accompanying with activated STAT3 by tyrosine 705 residue phosphorylation, while not serine 727. Above data infer both classic signalling and trans‐signalling of IL‐6 are activated during DKD. In cultured podocyte, high glucose (HG) up‐regulates the expression of mIL‐6R and gp130, as well as STAT3 tyrosine 705 phosphorylation, in a time‐dependent manner. Entirely blocking IL‐6 signalling by gp130 shRNA, gp130 or IL‐6 neutralizing antibodies attenuates HG‐induced podocyte injury. Interestingly, either inhibiting IL‐6 classic signalling by mIL‐6R shRNA or suppressing its trans‐signalling using sgp130 protein dramatically alleviates HG‐induced podocyte injury, suggesting both IL‐6 classic signalling and trans‐signalling play a detrimental role in HG‐induced podocyte injury. Additionally, activation of IL‐6 classic or trans‐signalling aggravates podocyte damage in vitro. In summary, our observations demonstrate that the activation of either IL‐6 classic or trans‐signalling advances podocyte harming under hyperglycaemia. Thus, suppressing IL‐6 classic and trans‐signalling simultaneously may be more beneficial in podocyte protection and presents a novel therapeutic target for DKD.
MicroRNA‐27a‐3p suppression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ contributes to cognitive impairments resulting from sevoflurane treatment
Authors: Lv Xiang , Yan Jia , Jiang Jue , Zhou Xuhui , Lu Yi , Jiang Hong
Published: September 2017

Sevoflurane is the most widely used anaesthetic administered by inhalation. Exposure to sevoflurane in neonatal mice can induce learning deficits and abnormal social behaviours. MicroRNA (miR)‐27a‐3p, a short, non‐coding RNA that functions as a tumour suppressor, is up‐regulated after inhalation of anaesthetic, and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPAR‐γ) is one of its target genes. The objective of this study was to investigate how the miR‐27a‐3p–PPAR‐γ interaction affects sevoflurane‐induced neurotoxicity. A luciferase reporter assay was employed to identify the interaction between miR‐27a‐3p and PPAR‐γ. Primary hippocampal neuron cultures prepared from embryonic day 0 C57BL/6 mice were treated with miR‐27a‐3p inhibitor or a PPAR‐γ agonist to determine the effect of miR‐27a‐3p and PPAR‐γ on sevoflurane‐induced cellular damage. Cellular damage was assessed by a flow cytometry assay to detect apoptotic cells, immunofluorescence to detect reactive oxygen species, western blotting to detect NADPH oxidase 1/4 and ELISA to measure inflammatory cytokine levels. In vivo experiments were performed using a sevoflurane‐induced anaesthetic mouse model to analyse the effects of miR‐27a‐3p on neurotoxicity by measuring the number of apoptotic neurons using the Terminal‐deoxynucleoitidyl Transferase Mediated Nick End Labeling (TUNEL) method and learning and memory function by employing the Morris water maze test. Our results revealed that PPAR‐γ expression was down‐regulated by miR‐27a‐3p following sevoflurane treatment in hippocampal neurons. Down‐regulation of miR‐27a‐3p expression decreased sevoflurane‐induced hippocampal neuron apoptosis by decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress‐related protein expression through the up‐regulation of PPAR‐γ. In vivo tests further confirmed that inhibition of miR‐27a‐3p expression attenuated sevoflurane‐induced neuronal apoptosis and learning and memory impairment. Our findings suggest that down‐regulation of miR‐27a‐3p expression ameliorated sevoflurane‐induced neurotoxicity and learning and memory impairment through the PPAR‐γ signalling pathway. MicroRNA‐27a‐3p may, therefore, be a potential therapeutic target for preventing or treating sevoflurane‐induced neurotoxicity.

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Grief reactions of couples to perinatal loss: A one‐year prospective follow‐up
Authors: Tseng Ying‐Fen , Cheng Hsiu‐Rong , Chen Yu‐Ping , Yang Shu‐Fei , Cheng Pi‐Tzu
Published: September 2017

Aims and objectives

To explore couples’ perceptions of the effects of perinatal loss on their marital relationship, social support and grief 1 year postloss, and analyse what factors changed the severity of their grief.

Background

Perinatal losses are traumatic events in the lives of families and can have serious long‐term consequences for the psychological health of parents and any subsequent children.

Design

A prospective follow‐up study.

Methods

We recruited, at a teaching hospital in southern Taiwan, a convenience sample of 30 couples whose babies either miscarried or were stillborn. At 1 month (T1), 3 months (T2), 6 months (T3) and 1 year (T4) after the pregnancy loss, all participants completed four questionnaires. To analyse the changing status of their grief and its related factors, we used a generalised estimating equation (GEE) to account for correlations between repeated observations.

Results

Postbereavement grief levels fell over the four time‐points. Mothers reported feeling more grief than did the fathers. Couples with a history of infertility, no religious beliefs or no living children before the loss felt more grief from a perinatal miscarriage or stillbirth. Furthermore, couples reported more grief if their marital satisfaction level was low, if their socioemotional support from husband's parents was low or if they had never participated in a ritual for their deceased baby.

Conclusions

Six months postloss is the crucial period for bereaved parents after a perinatal loss. Being a mother, having no previous living children and low‐level socioemotional support from the husband's parents are significant high‐risk factors for a high level of grief 1 year after perinatal death.

Relevance to clinical practice

We recommend that health professionals increase their ability to identify the factors that psychologically affect postloss grief. Active postloss follow‐up programmes should focus on these factors to offer specific support and counselling.
Hospital passports, patient safety and person‐centred care: A review of documents currently used for people with intellectual disabilities in theUK
Authors: Northway Ruth , Rees Stacey , Davies Michelle , Williams Sharon
Published: September 2017

Aims and objectives

To review hospital passports currently in use for people with intellectual disabilities in theUKand to make recommendations for practice.

Background

Hospital passports have been introduced internationally to address communication barriers that may limit access to appropriate health care for people with intellectual disabilities. They are viewed as promoting patient safety and person‐centred care but their format may vary, they are not always used appropriately, and hence, their effectiveness may be limited.

Design

Qualitative content analysis.

Methods

Sixty hospital passports in use in theUKwere reviewed against a coding frame by two members of the research team. Areas of interest included key patient and primary care information, support network details, consent and capacity, support required in relation to activities of daily living, length of the document and completion details. Results were entered into Excel.

Results

Considerable variation was found between documents in terms of terminology, length and format. Most included information regarding communication and support needs although some omitted important information such as allergies, risk assessment and need for reasonable adjustments.

Conclusions

Considerable variation exists between current hospital passports, which may limit their effectiveness: key information required may not be included and/or it may not be easy to locate. Greater standardisation of documents is required, but this process should include input from all key stakeholders.

Relevance to clinical practice

Internationally nurses provide care for people with intellectual disabilities and others with communication difficulties. Hospital passports are one way of enhancing safety and person‐centred care, need to be accessed and used as a basis for care planning. However, variation in format may limit this effectiveness and nurses should work with others to develop a more standardised approach, which better meets the needs of all stakeholders.
Compromise, massive encouragement and forcing: a discussion of mechanisms used to limit the choices available to the older adult in hospital
Authors: DRAPER PETER
Published: September 2017

This paper gives a partial account of the findings of a qualitative research project concerning the quality of life of older people in nursing homes and hospital wards.

Using strategies of ethnographic interview and hermeneutical analysis, 14 older people and 11 nurses were asked to discuss issues relating to the quality of life. Nursing staff said that older people should be treated as individuals. In practice, this meant that they should be given freedom of choice in matters concerning the conduct of their daily lives. Paradoxically, some nurses were also prepared to describe a range of tactics by which they deny older people choice in various circumstances. These tactics are (i) coming to a compromise; (ii) massive encouragement; and (iii) forcing. The ways in which the staff justify these tactics are examined and evaluated.
Growth, Survival, and Whole‐body Proximate and Fatty Acid Composition of Haddock, Melanogrammus aeglefinus L., Postlarvae Fed a Practical Microparticulate Weaning Diet
Authors: Lall Santosh P. , Lewis‐McCrea Leah M. , Tibbetts Sean M.
Published: September 2017

Further development of high‐quality feeds for hatchery‐reared haddock in the North Atlantic would benefit from a standard formulation that can be used as a reference for hatcheries and laboratory studies. A practical microparticulate diet (PMD) developed and evaluated with newly metamorphosed juvenile haddock, Melanogrammus aeglefinus L., postlarvae is proposed. Survival of fish fed PMD was just as high (88–89%; P > 0.05) as those fed a high‐quality imported feed (Biokyowa). Alternatively, fish fed PMD had higher (P < 0.05) final fork lengths (39.5 vs. 35.1 mm), wet weights (851.3 vs. 580.2 mg) and weight gains (1637.2 vs. 1115.7%). No differences (P > 0.05) in whole‐body moisture (846–857 g/kg), ash (17–18 g/kg), or protein (101 g/kg) contents were found. Lipid content of fish fed PMD (26 g/kg) was higher (P < 0.05) than those fed Biokyowa (21 g/kg) despite PMD containing 15 g/kg lower dietary lipid, suggesting higher intake and/or lipid retention. The PMD formulation proved to be a highly suitable weaning diet for haddock postlarvae based on high feed acceptance, survival, and fish growth. Given the economic and logistical difficulties associated with importing commercial weaning feeds, this easily produced practical weaning diet has good potential for use by laboratory researchers and farm managers for hatchery‐based nutrition research with haddock postlarvae.
Creation is Incarnation: The Metaphysical Peculiarity of the Logoi in Maximus Confessor
Authors: Wood Jordan Daniel
Published: September 2017

Maximian logoi or the “principles” of created being are often virtually identified with Platonic ideas or forms. This assumption obscures what is distinctive about Maximus's concept of the logoi. I first note two metaphysical peculiarities of his doctrine, and then propose that these only make sense if we follow Maximus's own directive to read the logoi through Christology proper – that is, as describing creation as the Word's cosmic Incarnation. This suggests, in creative tension with a good deal of twentieth‐century philosophical theology, that the God‐world relation is not fully exhausted by the analogia entis: Maximus divines a still deeper hypostatic (not natural) identity between Word and world that actually generates natural difference – for perhaps the first and only time in the history of Christian thought. Here I assay a first step toward retrieving that relation.
Review: Neuropathology and behavioural features of transgenic murine models of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Ameen‐Ali K. E. , Wharton S. B. , Simpson J. E. , Heath P. R. , Sharp P. , Berwick J.
Published: September 2017

Our understanding of the underlying biology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been steadily progressing; however, this is yet to translate into a successful treatment in humans. The use of transgenic mouse models has helped to develop our understanding of AD, not only in terms of disease pathology, but also with the associated cognitive impairments typical of AD. Plaques and neurofibrillary tangles are often among the last pathological changes in AD mouse models, after neuronal loss and gliosis. There is a general consensus that successful treatments need to be applied before the onset of these pathologies and associated cognitive symptoms. This review discusses the different types of AD mouse models in terms of the temporal progression of the disease, how well they replicate the pathological changes seen in human AD and their cognitive defects. We provide a critical assessment of the behavioural tests used with AD mice to assess cognitive changes and decline, and discuss how successfully they correlate with cognitive impairments in humans with AD. This information is an important tool for AD researchers when deciding on appropriate mouse models, and when selecting measures to assess behavioural and cognitive change.
Improved fruit α‐tocopherol, carotenoid, squalene and phytosterol contents through manipulation of Brassica juncea 3‐HYDROXY‐3‐METHYLGLUTARYL‐COA SYNTHASE1 in transgenic tomato
Authors: Liao Pan , Chen Xinjian , Wang Mingfu , Bach Thomas J. , Chye Mee‐Len
Published: September 2017

3‐Hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A synthase (HMGS) in the mevalonate (MVA) pathway generates isoprenoids including phytosterols. Dietary phytosterols are important because they can lower blood cholesterol levels. Previously, the overexpression of Brassica juncea wild‐type (wt) and mutant (S359A) BjHMGS1 in Arabidopsis up‐regulated several genes in sterol biosynthesis and increased sterol content. Recombinant S359A had earlier displayed a 10‐fold higher in vitro enzyme activity. Furthermore, tobacco HMGS overexpressors (OEs) exhibited improved sterol content, plant growth and seed yield. Increased growth and seed yield in tobacco OE‐S359A over OE‐wtBjHMGS1 coincided with elevations in NtSQS expression and sterol content. Herein, the overexpression of wt and mutant (S359A) BjHMGS1 in a crop plant, tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), caused an accumulation of MVA‐derived squalene and phytosterols, as well as methylerythritol phosphate (MEP)‐derived α‐tocopherol (vitamin E) and carotenoids, which are important to human health as antioxidants. In tomato HMGS‐OE seedlings, genes associated with the biosyntheses of C10, C15 and C20 universal precursors of isoprenoids, phytosterols, brassinosteroids, dolichols, methylerythritol phosphate, carotenoid and vitamin E were up‐regulated. In OE‐S359A tomato fruits, increased squalene and phytosterol contents over OE‐wtBjHMGS1 were attributed to heightened SlHMGR2, SlFPS1, SlSQS and SlCYP710A11 expression. In both tomato OE‐wtBjHMGS1 and OE‐S359A fruits, the up‐regulation of SlGPS and SlGGPPS1 in the MEP pathway that led to α‐tocopherol and carotenoid accumulation indicated cross‐talk between the MVA and MEP pathways. Taken together, the manipulation of BjHMGS1 represents a promising strategy to simultaneously elevate health‐promoting squalene, phytosterols, α‐tocopherol and carotenoids in tomato, an edible fruit.
Theoretical Study on the Substituent Effect on the Excited‐State Proton Transfer in the 7‐Azaindole‐Water Derivatives
Authors: Yi Jiacheng , Fang Hua
Published: September 2017

The first excited‐state proton transfer (ESPT) in 7AI‐H2O complex and its derivatives, in which the hydrogen atom at the C2 position in pyrrole ring was replaced by halogen atom X (X = F, Cl, Br), were studied at the TD‐M06‐2X/6‐31 + G(d, p) level. The double proton transfer took place in a concerted but asynchronous protolysis pathway. The vibrational‐mode selectivity of excited‐state double proton transfer in the model system was confirmed. The specific vibrational‐mode could shorten the reaction path and accelerate the reaction rate. The substituent effects on the excited‐state proton transfer process were discussed. When the H atom at C2 position in 7AI‐H2O complex was replaced by halogen atom, some geometrical parameters changed obviously, the barrier height of ESDPT reduced, and the asynchronicity of proton transfer enlarged. The above changes correlated with the Pauling electronegativity of halogen atom.
Electronic identification systems for reducing diagnostic workloads after disease outbreak
Authors: Panattoni A. , Rinaldelli E. , Materazzi A. , Bandinelli R. , De Bellis L. , Luvisi A.
Published: September 2017

Diagnostic tests for grapevine viruses subjected to phytosanitary rules involve a heavy workload for plant protection services and laboratories. Propagation schemes enable nurseries, where mother plants (MPs) are cultivated, to be linked to batches of certified plants (CPs). This approach entails post‐production checks of MPs once infection occurs in CPs. However, this traceability system is not tight and follow ups are demanding. This study assessed radio frequency identification (RFID) tagging of plants in terms of its ability to reduce laboratory workloads for nursery health checks. RFID‐tagged plants (RFID‐CPs) were produced from individually tagged MPs (RFID‐MPs) or row‐tagged MPs (RFID‐ROW, a less expensive approach). In a 10‐year case study, the health status of CPs and RFID‐CPs were assessed and the occurrence of infections then led to health checks in MPs, RFID‐MPs or RFID‐ROWs. Laboratory workloads were evaluated by considering two sampling methods (single or pool sampling). Using single sampling, the workload was reduced by 93–98% in RFID‐ROW or RFID‐MP checks compared to the conventional approach. Considerable reductions in workload due to the tagging system (93–96%) were also observed using pool sampling. Traceability of CPs and MPs using RFID reduces laboratory workloads, and supports emergency measures that can be taken to stop any unsafe sales of plants after a virus outbreak.
Inoculation of Malus genotypes with a set of Erwinia amylovora strains indicates a gene‐for‐gene relationship between the effector gene eop1 and both Malus floribunda 821 and Malus ‘Evereste’
Authors: Wöhner T.W. , Richter K. , Sundin G. W. , Zhao Y. , Stockwell V. O. , Sellmann J. , Flachowsky H. , Hanke M.‐V. , Peil A.
Published: September 2017

The Gram‐negative bacterium Erwinia amylovora, causal agent of fire blight disease in pome fruit trees, encodes a type three secretion system (T3SS) that translocates effector proteins into plant cells that collectively function to suppress host defences and enable pathogenesis. Until now, there has only been limited knowledge about the interaction of effector proteins and host resistance presented in several wild Malus species. This study tested disease responses in several Malus wild species with a set of effector deletion mutant strains and several highly virulent E. amylovora strains, which are assumed to influence the host resistance response of fire blight‐resistant Malus species. The findings confirm earlier studies that deletion of the T3SS abolished virulence of the pathogen. Furthermore, a new gene‐for‐gene relationship was established between the effector protein Eop1 and the fire blight resistant ornamental apple cultivar Evereste and the wild species Malus floribunda 821. The results presented here provide new insights into the host–pathogen interactions between Malus sp. and E. amylovora.
The Effect of Vaccination Against Human Papillomavirus on Fecundability
Authors: McInerney Kathryn A. , Hatch Elizabeth E. , Wesselink Amelia K. , Mikkelsen Ellen M. , Rothman Kenneth J. , Perkins Rebecca B. , Wise Lauren A.
Published: September 2017

Background

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine was developed to prevent infection with strains of HPV that cause cervical cancer. While HPV infection has been associated with reduced semen quality and lower pregnancy rates in some studies, no studies have examined the relationship between HPV vaccination and fecundability. We hypothesize that HPV prevention via vaccination will protect fecundity.

Methods

We analysed data from Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO), a preconception cohort of North American pregnancy planners. Between 2013 and 2017, we followed 3483 female pregnancy planners and 1022 of their male partners for 12 months or until reported pregnancy, whichever came first. At baseline, participants reported whether they had been vaccinated against HPV and their age at vaccination. We estimated fecundability ratios (FR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) using proportional probabilities models adjusted for sociodemographics, smoking, and abnormal Pap test before HPV vaccination (females only).

Results

HPV vaccination was more prevalent among females (33.9%) than males (5.2%). There was little overall association between female vaccination (FR 0.98, 95% CI 0.90, 1.08) or male vaccination (FR 1.07, 95% CI 0.79, 1.46) and fecundability. Among females with a history of sexually transmitted infections or pelvic inflammatory disease (i.e. a group at high risk of exposure to HPV infection), those vaccinated against HPV had higher fecundability than those not vaccinated (FR 1.35, 95% CI 0.99, 1.86).

Conclusion

Although HPV vaccination had little effect on fecundability overall, HPV vaccination was positively associated with fecundability among women with a history of sexually transmitted infections.
Morphology and molecular phylogeny of Ostreopsis cf. ovata and O. lenticularis (Dinophyceae) from Hainan Island, South China Sea
Authors: Zhang Hua , Lu Songhui , Li Yang , Cen Jingyi , Wang Hualong , Li Qun , Nie Xiangping
Published: September 2017

The genus Ostreopsis contains benthic and potentially toxic species that are distributed in tropical and temperate regions. In this study, we present the first report of observations of Ostreopsis cf. ovata and O. lenticularis in Chinese waters. Isolates were characterized morphologically based on LM and SEM, and phylogenetic analyses were conducted by sequencing the LSU rDNA (D1–D3), ITS region (ITS1‐5.8S‐ITS2) and SSU rDNA. The morphology of O. cf. ovata Hainan strains was similar to the original description of O. ovata, despite differences in cell size. The morphology of O. lenticularis Hainan strains was similar to the original description, although both deviations of cell dimensions and different kinds of thecal pores were observed. The plate formula for the Ostreopsis Hainan strains was arranged in Kofoid's system tabulation of Po, 3′, 7′′, Vp, Rp, 1p, 5′′′, 2′′′′. The O. cf. ovata and O. lenticularis Hainan strains showed close relationships with strains collected from the Pacific Ocean based on the sequences of both LSU rDNA and ITS region. The genetic differences (p‐distances) of SSU rDNA sequences of the Ostreopsis cf. ovata Hainan strain were 0.0096 and 0.0447 different from those of a Malaysian strain and a South Korean strain, respectively. This work identifies the first occurrence of Ostreopsis with the morphology and phylogeny of Hainan strains in Chinese waters.
An Emerging New Risk Analysis Science: Foundations and Implications
Authors: Aven Terje
Published: September 2017

To solve real‐life problems—such as those related to technology, health, security, or climate change—and make suitable decisions, risk is nearly always a main issue. Different types of sciences are often supporting the work, for example, statistics, natural sciences, and social sciences. Risk analysis approaches and methods are also commonly used, but risk analysis is not broadly accepted as a science in itself. A key problem is the lack of explanatory power and large uncertainties when assessing risk. This article presents an emerging new risk analysis science based on novel ideas and theories on risk analysis developed in recent years by the risk analysis community. It builds on a fundamental change in thinking, from the search for accurate predictions and risk estimates, to knowledge generation related to concepts, theories, frameworks, approaches, principles, methods, and models to understand, assess, characterize, communicate, and (in a broad sense) manage risk. Examples are used to illustrate the importance of this distinct/separate risk analysis science for solving risk problems, supporting science in general and other disciplines in particular.
Changes in the gender structure: Inequality at the individual, interactional, and macro dimensions
Authors: Scarborough William J. , Risman Barbara J.
Published: September 2017

As a society, we've made tremendous progress toward gender equality over the past several decades. Yet there remains significant inequality between women and men. Furthermore, when we look closely at some of the progress made toward gender equality, we find it considerably less impressive than surface appearances. In this article, we review the updated framework of Risman's (2017) gender structure theory and argue that it can help us make sense of the progress we've made as well as analyzing inequality as it persists between women and men. Using gender structure theory, we then show how gender is simultaneously reproduced and contested across the individual, interactional, and macro levels of society within 3 major social domains: work, family, and gender identity.
HLA polymorphisms and risk of red blood cell alloimmunisation in polytransfused patients with sickle cell anaemia
Authors: Rodrigues C. , Sell A. M. , Guelsin G. A. S. , Higa T. T. , Pagliarini e Silva S. , Macedo L. C. , Sippert E. Â. , de Alencar J. B. , Zanette Â. , Acorsi C. R. L. , Castilho L. , Visentainer J. E. L.
Published: September 2017

Background

Red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunisation is an event that may occur due to factors such as numerous blood transfusions, age, gender and genetic factors such as human leukocyte antigen (HLA).

Aims/Objectives

The aim of the present study was to investigate the possibility of alloimmunisation to red blood cell group antigens associated with the HLA of individuals and to relate alloimmunisation to risk factors.

Methods

A total of 172 polytransfused patients with sickle cell anaemia (SCA) (44 alloimmunised, 128 non‐alloimmunised) participated in this study. Blood group genotyping was performed by the DNA microarray method and HLA genotyping by polymerase chain reaction – specific sequence of oligonucleotides.

Results

The number of transfusions received directly influenced the incidence of alloimmunisation, and the most common alloantibodies were against Rh (48·8%) and Kell (17%) systems.

The HLA‐C*06 and HLA‐DQB1*03 variants were significantly higher in alloimmunised patients. The HLA‐DRB1*04 and HLA‐DRB1*11 were more often found in individuals who developed the alloantibodies anti‐Fya and anti‐K, respectively.

Conclusion

This study suggests that polytransfused patients with SCA possessing the HLA‐DQB1*03 and HLA‐C*06 allele variants are more susceptible to alloimmunisation. In addition, HLA‐DRB1*04 and HLA‐DRB1*11 alleles were seen to be associated with the production of anti‐Fya and anti‐K antibodies, respectively.
The preparation, characterization of FeC micro‐electrolysis materials using low‐cost biochar and the removal of ultra‐high COD pesticide wastewater
Authors: Li Min , Zhang Yihe , Hu Pan , Yu Shixin , Guo Yuxi , Huang Hongwei
Published: September 2017

Two kinds of FeC micro‐electrolysis materials (FeC MEMs) named Fe0/FeC MEMs and Fe3O4/FeC MEMs were prepared using low‐cost biochar, chemical grade Fe0 powder and industrial iron powder. The FeC MEMs were characterized by XRD, SEM and FT‐IR. Meanwhile, the effects of sintering temperatures and mass ratios of Fe to C on the treatment high chemical oxygen demand (COD) pesticide wastewater were studied. The results display that the relative removal rate of COD reached 64% for Fe0/FeC MEMs when the sintering temperature was 400°C and the mass ratio of Fe to C was 1 : 1. For Fe3O4/FeC MEMs, and the mass ratio of Fe3O4 to C was 1 : 3, the relative removal rate of COD reached 63.71%. Hence, the chemical grade Fe0 powder could be replaced with industrial iron powder to achieve the goal of low‐cost treatment of the high COD pesticide wastewater.
Probing the frontiers of particle physics with tabletop-scale experiments
Authors: DeMille David , Doyle John M. , Sushkov Alexander O.
Published: September 2017

The field of particle physics is in a peculiar state. The standard model of particle theory successfully describes every fundamental particle and force observed in laboratories, yet fails to explain properties of the universe such as the existence of dark matter, the amount of dark energy, and the preponderance of matter over antimatter. Huge experiments, of increasing scale and cost, continue to search for new particles and forces that might explain these phenomena. However, these frontiers also are explored in certain smaller, laboratory-scale “tabletop” experiments. This approach uses precision measurement techniques and devices from atomic, quantum, and condensed-matter physics to detect tiny signals due to new particles or forces. Discoveries in fundamental physics may well come first from small-scale experiments of this type.
Acoustic mirrors as sensory traps for bats
Authors: Greif Stefan , Zsebők Sándor , Schmieder Daniela , Siemers Björn M.
Published: September 2017

Building-blind bats

Human-generated structures now dominate much of the planet, but they have existed for but a blink of an eye from an evolutionary perspective. Animal sensory systems evolved to navigate natural environments and so may not always be reliable in anthropogenic ones. Greif
et al.
show that echolocating bats appear to perceive smooth vertical surfaces as open areas, a mistake that often leads to collisions (see the Perspective by Stilz). With millions upon millions of smooth vertical surfaces in our world today, such misperceptions could have considerable negative impacts on bat survival.

Science
, this issue p.
1045
; see also p.
977
Sterilizing immunity in the lung relies on targeting fungal apoptosis-like programmed cell death
Authors: Shlezinger Neta , Irmer Henriette , Dhingra Sourabh , Beattie Sarah R. , Cramer Robert A. , Braus Gerhard H. , Sharon Amir , Hohl Tobias M.
Published: September 2017

Survivin' neutrophil surveillance

Humans constantly inhale fungal spores. Why don't we suffer more invasive infections from ubiquitous fungal molds such as
Aspergillus fumigatus
? Working in mice, Shlezinger
et al.
found that neutrophils phagocytosed germinating fungal spores deep in the lungs (see the Perspective by Wiesner and Klein). Once engulfed, the fungal cells underwent programmed cell death, likely induced by phagocyte NADPH oxidase. Fungal strains engineered to overexpress a fungal
survivin
homolog resisted cell death by inhibiting caspase-3 and -7. When a Survivin antagonist was applied, more fungal cells died. These findings may lead to therapies for immunocompromised patients threatened by invasive fungal lung infections.

Science
, this issue p.
1037
; see also p.
973
Meet the primordial asteroid family
Authors: DeMeo Francesca
Published: September 2017

Identification of an ancient family of asteroids may help constrain solar system origins
Human Cytomegalovirus Particles Treated with Specific Antibodies Induce Intrinsic and Adaptive but Not Innate Immune Responses
Authors: Wu Zeguang , Qin Ruifang , Wang Li , Bosso Matteo , Scherer Myriam , Stamminger Thomas , Hotter Dominik , Mertens Thomas , Frascaroli Giada
Published: September 2017

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) persistently infects 40% to 100% of the human population worldwide. Experimental and clinical evidence indicates that humoral immunity to HCMV plays an important role in restricting virus dissemination and protecting the infected host from disease. Specific immunoglobulin preparations from pooled plasma of adults selected for high titers of HCMV antibodies have been used for the prevention of CMV disease in transplant recipients and pregnant women. Even though incubation of HCMV particles with these preparations leads to the neutralization of viral infectivity, it is still unclear whether the antibody-treated HCMV particles (referred to here as HCMV-Ab) enter the cells and modulate antiviral immune responses. Here we demonstrate that HCMV-Ab did enter macrophages. HCMV-Ab did not initiate the expression of immediate early antigens (IEAs) in macrophages, but they induced an antiviral state and rendered the cells less susceptible to HCMV infection upon challenge. Resistance to HCMV infection seemed to be due to the activation of intrinsic restriction factors and was independent of interferons. In contrast to actively infected cells, autologous NK cells did not degranulate against HCMV-Ab-treated macrophages, suggesting that these cells may not be eliminated by innate effector cells. Interestingly, HCMV-Ab-treated macrophages stimulated the proliferation of autologous adaptive CD4
+
and CD8
+
T cells. Our findings not only expand the current knowledge on virus-antibody immunity but may also be relevant for future vaccination strategies.

IMPORTANCE
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a common herpesvirus, establishes benign but persistent infections in immunocompetent hosts. However, in subjects with an immature or dysfunctional immune system, HCMV is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Passive immunization has been used in different clinical settings with variable clinical results. Intravenous hyperimmune globulin preparations (IVIg) are obtained from pooled adult human plasma selected for high anti-CMV antibody titers. While HCMV neutralization can be shown
in vitro
using different systems, data are lacking regarding the cross-influence of IVIg administration on the cellular immune responses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of IVIg on distinct components of the immune response against HCMV, including antigen presentation by macrophages, degranulation of innate natural killer cells, and proliferation of adaptive CD4
+
and CD8
+
T cells.
Bowel perforation presenting three months after suprapubic catheter insertion
Authors: Stonier Thomas , Simson Nick , Wilson Elizabeth , Stergios Konstantinos Eleftherios
Published: September 2017

An 82-year-old male with multiple comorbidities, including previous laparotomies, had a suprapubic catheter (SPC) inserted under guidance with ultrasound and a flexible cystoscope. Three months following the procedure, having returned for a flexible cystoscopy for ongoing bladder pain syndrome, he became peritonitic postoperatively.

A CT scan and subsequent laparotomy confirmed the SPC to be passing through a section of terminal ileum. The bowel was resected and he recovered well after a long hospital admission. A literature search found this delayed presentation of bowel perforation following SPC insertion to be rare, with only a few other cases reported. In particular, previous abdominal surgery increases the risk of this complication. This case serves as a reminder of the rare but potentially significant risk of SPC insertion and unusually highlights that this may not present immediately.
Assessment tool for the instructional design of simulation-based team training courses: the ID-SIM
Authors: Fransen Annemarie F , van der Hout-van der Jagt M Beatrijs , Gardner Roxane , Capelle Manuela , Oei Sebastiaan P , van Runnard Heimel Pieter J , Oei S Guid
Published: September 2017

Introduction

To achieve an expert performance of care teams, adequate simulation-based team training courses with an effective instructional design are essential. As the importance of the instructional design becomes ever more clear, an objective assessment tool would be valuable for educators and researchers. Therefore, we aimed to develop an evidence-based and objective assessment tool for the evaluation of the instructional design of simulation-based team training courses.

Methods

A validation study in which we developed an assessment tool containing an evidence-based questionnaire with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and a visual chart directly translating the results of the questionnaire. Psychometric properties of the assessment tool were tested using five descriptions of simulation-based team training courses. An expert-opinion-based ranking from poor to excellent was obtained. Ten independent raters assessed the five training courses twice, by using the developed questionnaire with an interval of 2 weeks. Validity and reliability analyses were performed by using the scores from the raters and comparing them with the expert’s ranking. Usability was assessed by an 11-item survey.

Results

A 42-item questionnaire, using VAS, and a propeller chart were developed. The correlation between the expert-opinion-based ranking and the evaluators’ scores (Spearman correlation) was 0.95, and the variance due to subjectivity of raters was 3.5% (VTraining*Rater). The G-coefficient was 0.96. The inter-rater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC)) was 0.91 (95% CI 0.77 to 0.99), and intra-rater reliability for the overall score (ICC) was ranging from 0.91 to 0.99.

Conclusions

We developed an evidence-based and reliable assessment tool for the evaluation of the instructional design of a simulation-based team training: the ID-SIM. The ID-SIM is available as a free mobile application.