bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“These patients look lost” – Community pharmacy staff’s identification and support of patients with limited health literacy
Authors: Koster Ellen S , Philbert Daphne , Blom Lyda , Bouvy Marcel L
Published: May 2016

Objective

To date, routine use of health literacy assessment in clinical settings is limited. The objective of this study was to explore if community pharmacy staff can identify patients with limited health literacy, how they identify patients and how they support patients to improve medication use. In addition, perceived barriers in providing care for patients with limited health literacy were assessed.

Methods

Structured face-to-face interviews with pharmacy staff were performed in 27 community pharmacies. Questions concerned pharmacy staff’s experiences with limited health literacy during their work, e.g. recognition of patients, communication strategies and possible interventions for this patient group to improve medication use.

Key findings

Results from 74 interviews were included for analysis. Sixty-eight interviewees (92%) mentioned to identify patients with limited health literacy during their work, mostly based on intuition. Suggested strategies to improve medication use included tailored education and information, intensive support or use of aids such as a multidose drug dispensing system. Pharmacy staff indicated lack of time as a barrier to provide tailored pharmaceutical care.

Conclusions

Most participants mentioned to recognize patients with limited health literacy merely on intuition or based on certain patient characteristics. Thus, an unknown number of patients with limited health literacy might be missed. This underlines the need to create more awareness of health literacy among pharmacy professionals. Moreover, training of pharmacy staff and use of aids to identify limited health literacy may help to identify more patients who need additional counselling.
Behavioral Cues as Indicators of Deception in Structured Employment Interviews
Authors: Culbertson Satoris S. , Weyhrauch William S. , Waples Christopher J.
Published: May 2016

Two studies were conducted to examine the use of behavioral cues to identify deception within structured interviews. In Study 1, participants engaged in mock interviews in which they were instructed to lie on specific questions that varied by person. Trained coders evaluated the presence and extent of deception cues in each videotaped response. Nine cues predicted responses as expected, demonstrating that, with careful scrutiny, it is possible to detect deception. In Study 2, participants, either informed or uninformed regarding deception cues, viewed five interviews and evaluated responses as being honest or deceptive. Participants also rated overall interview performance. Participants were unable to accurately distinguish lies from truths. Nevertheless, performance ratings differed on the basis of rater perceptions of truthfulness.
Treatment Options for Anterior Teeth with Questionable Prognosis: Critical Factors in Determining Whether to Maintain or Extract
Authors: Diamantatou Theodora , Kotina Elli , Roussou Ilia , Kourtis Stefanos
Published: May 2016

Implants nowadays have conquered the majority of prosthetic restorations in the everyday clinical practice. As a result there has been a tendency among many clinicians to believe that implant therapy is the best solution in every clinical case, even if extraction of natural tooth with questionable prognosis is necessary. The value of natural teeth has been recently reconsidered. An implant not placed under ideal circumstances, may lead to a compromised result especially in the anterior maxillary region. Conversely natural teeth, even in a compromised clinical condition, maintain proprioception and can be adapted to the stresses of functional loading. The most demanding task in daily clinical practice is the treatment plan. The role of the clinician is more complicated for the anterior teeth where the patient‘s expectations and the esthetic criteria complicate the objective way of thinking. Therefore, a frequent dilemma in dental practice is whether to maintain an anterior tooth with a questionable prognosis or to extract it and replace it with an implant. The aim of this article is to approach the dilemma of extraction or maintenance of anterior teeth with a questionable prognosis through a series of clinical cases focusing on the factors that should be taken under consideration.

Clinical Significance

Dental implants offer increased possibilities in the restoration of the anterior maxillary teeth. In specific clinical cases however a satisfying clinical result can be achieved by maintaining the existing natural teeth even if they have a questionable prognosis and a more complicated treatment plan may be needed. (J Esthet Restor Dent, 2016)
A trans‐Atlantic examination of haddock Melanogrammus aeglefinus food habits
Authors: Tam J. C. , Link J. S. , Large S. I. , Bogstad B. , Bundy A. , Cook A. M. , Dingsør G. E. , Dolgov A. V. , Howell D. , Kempf A. , Pinnegar J. K. , Rindorf A. , Schückel S. , Sell A. F. , Smith B. E.
Published: May 2016

The food habits of Melanogrammus aeglefinus were explored and contrasted across multiple north‐eastern and north‐western Atlantic Ocean ecosystems, using databases that span multiple decades. The results show that among all ecosystems, echinoderms are a consistent part of M. aeglefinus diet, but patterns emerge regarding where and when M. aeglefinus primarily eat fishes v. echinoderms. Melanogrammus aeglefinus does not regularly exhibit the increase in piscivory with ontogeny that other gadoids often show, and in several ecosystems there is a lower occurrence of piscivory. There is an apparent inverse relationship between the consumption of fishes and echinoderms in M. aeglefinus over time, where certain years show high levels of one prey item and low levels of the other. This apparent binary choice can be viewed as part of a gradient of prey options, contingent upon a suite of factors external to M. aeglefinus dynamics. The energetic consequences of this prey choice are discussed, noting that in some instances it may not be a choice at all.
Ulcerative dermatitis in wild dusky grouper Epinephelus marginatus (Lowe) from Libyan waters
Authors: Rizgalla J , Bron J E , Shinn A P , Herath T K , Paladini G , Ferguson H W
Published: May 2016

In the period 2013–2015, wild dusky grouper, Epinephelus marginatus (Lowe), caught in Libyan coastal waters and ranging in size from 42 to 92 cm in total length, were observed to have distinctive skin lesions of unknown aetiology. Histopathologically, the lesions comprised a multifocal, unilateral or bilateral dermatitis, involving the epidermis, superficial dermis and scale pockets, and sometimes, in severe cases, the hypodermis. Severe lesions had marked epidermal spongiosis progressing to ulceration. Healing was observed in some fish. Bacteria and fungi could be isolated from severe lesions, although they were not seen histopathologically in early‐stage lesions. By contrast, metazoan parasite eggs were observed in the dermis and epidermis of some fish with mild and moderate dermatitis. Unidentified gravid digenean trematode parasites carrying similar eggs were also seen within the blood vessels of the deep and superficial dermis. The cause of this distinctive condition, termed dusky grouper dermatitis (DGD), and its potential impact upon already threatened Mediterranean wild dusky grouper populations and upon cultured grouper more widely have yet to be established.
Natural coinfection by Streptococcus agalactiae and Francisella noatunensis subsp. orientalis in farmed Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus L.)
Authors: Assis G B N , Tavares G C , Pereira F L , Figueiredo H C P , Leal C A G
Published: May 2016

Streptococcus agalactiae and Francisella noatunensis subsp. orientalis (Fno) are important pathogens for farm‐raised tilapia worldwide. There are no reports of coinfection caused by S. agalactiae and Fno in fish. This study aimed to determine the aetiology of atypical mortalities in a cage farm of Nile tilapia and to characterize the genetic diversity of the isolates. Fifty‐two fish were sampled and subjected to parasitological and bacteriological examination. The S. agalactiae and Fno isolates were genotyped using MLST and REP‐PCR, respectively. Whole‐genome sequencing was performed to confirm the MLST results. Seven fish were shown coinfected by S. agalactiae and Fno. Chronic hypoxia and a reduction in the water temperature were determined as risk factors for coinfection. Fno isolates were shown clonally related in REP‐PCR. The MLST analysis revealed that the S. agalactiae isolates from seven coinfected fish were negative for the glcK gene; however, these were determined to be members of clonal complex CC‐552. This is the first description of coinfection by S. agalactiae and Fno in farm‐raised Nile tilapia. The coinfection was predisposed by chronic hypoxia and was caused by the main genotypes of S. agalactiae and Fno reported in Brazil. Finally, a new S. agalactiae genotype with glcK gene partially deleted was described.
Development and validation of glycoprotein‐based native‐subunit vaccine for fish against Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Çiftci A , Onuk E E , Çiftci G , Fındık A , Söğüt M Ü , Didinen B I , Aksoy A , Üstünakın K , Gülhan T , Balta F , Altun S
Published: May 2016

Aeromonas hydrophila is known to be causative agent of an infection named as Bacterial haemorrhagic septicaemia or red pest in freshwater fish. The aim of this study was to develop and validate the glycoprotein‐based fish vaccine against Aeromonas hydrophila. For this aim, after identification and characterization of A. hydrophila isolates from fish farms, one A. hydrophila isolate was selected as vaccine strain. Antigenic glycoproteins of this vaccine strain were determined by Western blotting and glycan detection kit. The connection types of these glycoproteins were examined by glycoprotein differentiation kit. Two glycoproteins, molecular weights of 19 and 38 kDa, with SNA connection type were selected for use in vaccination trials. After their purification by SNA‐specific lectin and size‐exclusion chromatography, protection studies with purified proteins were performed. For challenge trials, four experimental fish groups were designated: Group I (with montanide), Group II (with montanide and ginseng), Group III [with Al(OH)3] and Group IV [with Al(OH)3 and ginseng]. The survival ratings of fish were determined, and protection was calculated as 21.56%, 29.41%, 69.83% and 78.88% in groups I, II, III and IV, respectively. In conclusion, A. hydrophila glycoproteins with Al(OH)3 and ginseng could be used as a safe and effective vaccine for fish.
The Adjusted Big Mac Methodology: A Clarification
Authors: O'Brien Thomas J. , de Vargas Santiago Ruiz
Published: May 2016

The Economist's adjusted Big Mac index takes GDP into account in currency valuation, but the methodology is not explained. We show that the key to understanding the methodology is to distinguish between a currency's bilateral valuation (versus a specific currency) and the currency's overall valuation (versus a “basket” of a large number of currencies). Also, the adjusted Big Mac estimates of intrinsic foreign exchange (FX) rates have been better forecasts of actual FX changes than those of the original “raw” Big Mac index.
Making microscopy count: quantitative light microscopy of dynamic processes in living plants
Authors: FRICKER MARK D. , MOGER JULIAN , LITTLEJOHN GEORGE R. , DEEKS MICHAEL J.
Published: May 2016

Cell theory has officially reached 350 years of age as the first use of the word ‘cell’ in a biological context can be traced to a description of plant material by Robert Hooke in his historic publication ‘Micrographia: or some physiological definitions of minute bodies’. The 2015 Royal Microscopical Society Botanical Microscopy meeting was a celebration of the streams of investigation initiated by Hooke to understand at the subcellular scale how plant cell function and form arises. Much of the work presented, and Honorary Fellowships awarded, reflected the advanced application of bioimaging informatics to extract quantitative data from micrographs that reveal dynamic molecular processes driving cell growth and physiology. The field has progressed from collecting many pixels in multiple modes to associating these measurements with objects or features that are meaningful biologically. The additional complexity involves object identification that draws on a different type of expertise from computer science and statistics that is often impenetrable to biologists. There are many useful tools and approaches being developed, but we now need more interdisciplinary exchange to use them effectively. In this review we show how this quiet revolution has provided tools available to any personal computer user. We also discuss the oft‐neglected issue of quantifying algorithm robustness and the exciting possibilities offered through the integration of physiological information generated by biosensors with object detection and tracking.
Normative values for mandibular mobility in Scandinavian individuals 4–17 years of age
Authors: Stoustrup P. , Kristensen K. D. , Küseler A. , Herlin T. , Pedersen T. K.
Published: May 2016

Assessment of mandibular mobility is an important part of the clinical oro‐facial examination of paediatric and adolescent patients. The aims of the present cross‐sectional study were to establish age‐related normative values for mandibular mobility in a Scandinavian paediatric and adolescent cohort and to assess the validity of universal cut‐off values for lower ‘normal’ mandibular ranges of motion. A total of 1114 Danish individuals between 4–17 years of age were included. Maximal mouth opening capacity and laterotrusion capacity were assessed, in each individual, according to a standardised measurement protocol. The mean maximal mouth opening capacity gradually increased from 38 mm (SD 6·1 mm) at age 4 to 54·5 mm (SD 6·8 mm) at age 17. No inter‐gender difference in maximal mouth opening capacity was observed (P > 0·15). The mean maximal laterotrusion capacity gradually increased from 7·4 mm (SD. 1·1 mm) at age four to 10·1 mm (SD 1·9 mm) at age 17. A statistical significant inter‐gender difference of 0·8 mm (SD 0·4 mm) was observed in relation to the total laterotrusion capacity; however, the clinical relevance of this significant difference is questionable. Normative values of mandibular function was established in individuals 4–17 years of age. Our findings oppose the use of a single universal cut‐off value for ‘normal’ range of motion in paediatric and adolescent patients. Instead, we recommend to use the age‐related normative values of mandibular range of motion as basis for the assessment of the development of oro‐facial function.
Short‐term morbidities and neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants exposed to magnesium sulphate treatment
Authors: Morag Iris , Yakubovich Daniel , Stern Orly , Siman‐Tov Maya , Schushan‐Eisen Irit , Strauss Tzipi , Simchen Michal
Published: May 2016

Aim

The aim of the study is to examine whether baseline serum Mg concentration has an impact on short‐term and long‐term outcomes in preterm infants exposed antenatally to MgSO4.

Methods

Participants included all infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at <32 weeks of gestational age. Infant serum Mg concentration (iMgC) was examined immediately after birth in those exposed to maternal MgSO4. Data for short‐term outcomes were collected from the infants' computerised charts. Neurodevelopmental outcomes at 6–12 months corrected age were assessed using the Griffiths Mental Developmental Scales.

Results

Of 197 eligible infants, 145 were exposed to MgSO4. Baseline iMgC was available for 88 infants. Mean iMgC was 3.5 ± 0.88 mg/dL (1.6–5.7 mg/dL). Baseline iMgC was not associated with an increased risk for neither early morbidities nor adverse long‐term outcome. However, iMgC above the mean (>3.5 mg/dL) was associated with significantly lower scores on locomotor (P = 0.016) and personal–social (0.041) scales in the first year of life.

Conclusions

In a cohort of preterm infants antenatally exposed to MgSO4, elevated baseline iMgC (>3.5 mg/dL) was associated with lower locomotor scores. Further research is needed in order to study the relationship between supra‐physiologic iMgC and its effect on the developing brain.
A practical comparison of temporal artery thermometry and axillary thermometry in neonates under different environments
Authors: Sim Ming Ann , Leow Syen Yee , Hao Ying , Yeo Cheo Lian
Published: May 2016

Aim

Thermoregulatory stability and monitoring are crucial in neonatal care. However, the current standard of temperature measurement using Axillary Thermometry (AT) poses multiple limitations. Temporal Artery Thermometry (TT) is a promising new method, which thus begs the question: Can TT replace AT in neonates? Previous studies reveal conflicting results, with none involving a Southeast‐Asian multi‐ethnic neonatal population under different environments.

Methods

A 6‐month prospective comparative study involving neonates managed in a tertiary neonatal centre. Subjects were divided into 4 groups based on the required nursing environment: A) Room air B) Phototherapy C) Radiant warmers D) Incubators. Six hundred and sixty‐one paired TT and AT temperature readings were obtained, with concurrent FLACC scoring to evaluate the discomfort associated with each thermometry method.

Results

TT readings were higher than AT in all groups. The mean temperature difference between both methods (TT–AT) was lowest in Group A (0.10 ± 0.19°C), followed by Groups B (0.50 ± 0.33°C), C (0.97 ± 0.76°C) and D (1.15 ± 0.57°C) respectively. Bland‐Altman analysis revealed good clinical agreement (± 0.5°C) between both methods in Group A (7−0.27,0.47). However, Groups B (−0.14,1.13), C (−0.51,2.45) and D (0.03,2.27) showed poor agreement. Multiple GEE analysis revealed Malay ethnicity to be an additional predictor of decreased TT–AT ( β = −0.13, p = 0.012). Compared to TT, AT was associated with higher discomfort levels (p <0.001).

Conclusions

Given the good agreement and increased comfort with TT use, our study confirms that TT is comparable to AT for neonates nursed in room air. TT is therefore recommended for the temperature screening and monitoring of neonates nursed on ambient air. Its use in other environments and factors predictive of comparability of both methods requires further study.
Assessment of skinfold thickness equations in estimating body composition in children with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Callias Céline , Ezri Jessica , Marques‐Vidal Pedro Manuel , Nydegger Andreas
Published: May 2016

Aim

To assess the agreement of commonly used skinfold thickness equations to estimate percentage of Fat Mass (FM%) in paediatric patients with IBD, in comparison with dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA).

Methods

Twenty‐one paediatric IBD patients were included: 11 females and 10 males; mean age for the entire group: 14.3 years, range 12–16 years, 16 with Crohn's disease, five with ulcerative colitis. The FM% was calculated using six established paediatric skinfold thickness equations and compared to the results obtained by DEXA. The statistical analysis was performed using Spearman's correlation, Lin's concordance correlation coefficient and corresponding 95% confidence interval, Bland–Altman's limits of agreement method and the Bradley–Blackwood test.

Results

Correlation between skinfold and DEXA values ranged between 0.85 (Deurenberg) and 0.92 (Durnin and Rahaman and Johnston), all P < 0.001. Lin's concordance correlation coefficients and (95% confidence interval) ranged between 0.702 (0.512–0.891) for the Deurenberg equation and 0.876 (0.779–0.972) for the Brook equation. Average differences between skinfold and DEXA values ranged between −3.6% (Deurenberg) and 2.5% (Weststrate). Bland–Altman limits of agreement were wide, spanning over 10%. Finally, the Bradley–Blackwood test of equality of means and variances was significant in all but the Durnin and Rahaman equation.

Conclusion

In adolescents with IBD, fat mass calculated from six skinfold thickness equations showed good correlation but poor agreement with reference values from DEXA. Assessment of body composition using skinfold thickness equations cannot be recommended in paediatric patients with IBD.
Impact of family structure and socio‐demographic characteristics on child health and wellbeing in same‐sex parent families: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Crouch Simon Robert , McNair Ruth , Waters Elizabeth
Published: May 2016

Aim

Children with same‐sex attracted parents develop well in terms of their health and wellbeing. There are many recognised factors that have an impact on child health, in general, including individual, family and wider social mediators. The aim of this study is to determine the impact of family structure and socio‐demographic characteristics on child health and wellbeing in Australian same‐sex parent families.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of self‐identified same‐sex attracted parents from across Australia was used to collect information on child health and wellbeing between May and December 2012. Mixed‐effects multiple linear regression models were used to identify associations between family structure/socio‐demographic characteristics and child wellbeing. Child health outcomes were measured using the Child Health Questionnaire and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire.

Results

In same‐sex parent families, biological relationships, parental gender and parental education were not significantly associated with health and wellbeing. Parental income, rurality and stable parental relationships were associated with health and wellbeing, and living in a single‐parent household was associated with poorer wellbeing.

Conclusions

Stable dual parent families offer good outcomes for children with same‐sex attracted parents. Family processes are most important. This study does not support the assertion that children require both male and female parents, nor that biological relationships are essential to health and wellbeing. This study provides scientific data from a cross‐sectional Australian‐based study to describe and understand health determinants for children in family contexts that comprise same‐sex parent and all family contexts. It recommends equitable, stigma‐free family support.
Japanese Participants at International Congress of Psychology Pre‐WWII
Authors: Takasuna Miki
Published: May 2016

In the present paper, the early contribution of Japanese psychologists at the International Congress of Psychology (ICP) was evaluated after scrutinizing every formal ICP report. From the 11 ICPs held prior to WWII, 25 Japanese names were registered. Among them, 18 Japanese participated, though only six presented. The first two participants, while not degreed psychologists, did present, and this suggests that by the end of the 19th century, Japanese scholars were academically ready for international exchange. Despite only a small number of Japanese scholars having participated by the 1940s, their constant involvement at ICPs led Japan to becoming a charter member of the International Union of Psychological Science (IUPsyS) in 1951.
Dietary Supplementation with Butyrate and Polyhydroxybutyrate on the Performance of Pacific White Shrimp in Biofloc Systems
Authors: da Silva Bruno Corrêa , Jatobá Adolfo , Schleder Delano Dias , Vieira Felipe do Nascimento , Mouriño José Luiz Pedreira , Seiffert Walter Quadros
Published: May 2016

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with sodium butyrate or polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) on growth performance, as well as changes in intestinal microbiota and hemato‐immunological parameters, of Litopenaeus vannamei reared under a superintensive biofloc system. Twelve 800‐L tanks were each stocked with 250 shrimp/m3 (3.96 ± 0.04 g mean initial weight) and reared over a 6‐wk period. The basal diet and two test diets supplemented with 2% of each feed additive. At the conclusion of the growth trial shrimp fed with the butyrate‐supplemented diet, as compared with the control shrimp, showed higher survival and productivity and lower total bacterial and Thiosulfate‐citrate‐bile salts‐sucrose Agar (TCBS) counts in the intestine. However, no differences were observed in other performance parameters analyzed. Shrimp fed with both supplementation regimens also showed an increase in total and granular hemocytes, as well as an increase in serum agglutination titer. Shrimp offered diets supplemented with sodium butyrate had higher counts of hyaline cells. Thus, for L. vannamei reared in a superintensive biofloc system, it can be concluded that dietary supplementation of sodium butyrate, more so than PHB, acted as an immune system modulator by reducing the concentration of pathogenic bacteria in shrimp gut, thereby increasing survival and productivity.
Effects of Different Carbon Sources on Bioactive Compound Production of Biofloc, Immune Response, Antioxidant Level, and Growth Performance of Litopenaeus vannamei in Zero‐water Exchange Culture Tanks
Authors: Zhao Dahu , Pan Luqing , Huang Fei , Wang Chao , Xu Wujie
Published: May 2016

This study aimed to investigate the development and bioactive compounds of biofloc promoted by adding molasses and wheat bran to zero‐water exchange culture tanks and their effects on physiological parameters and growth performance of juvenile Litopenaeus vannamei (initial weight: 6.8 ± 0.4 g). Different combinations of molasses and wheat bran were added as carbon sources: T1, 100% molasses; T2, 50% molasses + 50% wheat bran; T3, 25% molasses + 75% wheat bran. Clear water tanks with water exchange served as the control group (control). After the 30‐d experiment, the development of biofloc in terms of total suspended solids (TSS) and biofloc volume (BFV) showed significant differences in the three biofloc treatments, especially the highest levels of TSS and BFV observed in T3. The levels of poly‐beta‐hydroxybutyrate or polysaccharide in the biofloc of T1 and T2 were significantly higher than those in T3. Meanwhile, compared with the control group, most of the immune and antioxidant parameters and growth performance of shrimp were significantly enhanced in biofloc treatments, especially in T1 or T2. In conclusion, different carbon sources could effectively affect the development and bioactive compounds of biofloc, which could improve physiological health status and growth performance of shrimp in zero‐water exchange systems.
High‐throughput Cryopreservation of Sperm from Sex‐reversed Southern Flounder, Paralichthys lethostigma
Authors: Hu E , Cuevas‐Uribe Rafael , Yang Huiping , Sanderson Robin , Gill Adriane O. , Daniels Harry , Tiersch Terrence R.
Published: May 2016

The Southern flounder, Paralichthys lethostigma, is a valuable aquaculture fish with established markets in the USA. All‐female production in this species is an important technology for aquaculture because the females usually have body sizes twice those of males at the same age, and sex‐reversed males (genotypic XX neomales) are used for all‐female production by crossing with genetically normal females. However, sperm volume from the neomales is usually small (<0.5 mL) and limits their application for all‐female fish production. Cryopreservation of sperm from these sex‐reversed neomales will provide access on demand with increased efficiency to extend the application of neomales. The goal of this study was to develop a protocol for cryopreservation of sperm from the Southern flounder by using an automated high‐throughput processing system. The objectives were to: (1) determine the effect of osmolality on activation of sperm motility; (2) evaluate the effect of extender solutions on sperm motility capacity; (3) evaluate the acute toxicity of cryoprotectants (dimethyl sulfoxide [DMSO], propylene glycol, and polyethylene glycol) on sperm motility, and (4) estimate the effect of cooling rate on sperm cryopreservation and post‐thaw fertilization. Sperm motility was activated when osmolality was 400 mOsmol/kg or higher. Of the three extender buffers tested, HEPES4‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐1‐piperazineethanesulfonic acid (HEPES) at 300 mOsmol/kg resulted in better protection for sperm motility than did Hanks' balanced salt solution and Mounib solution at 300 mOsmol/kg during 7 d of refrigerated storage. After 30 min equilibration with the cryoprotectant of 15% DMSO, sperm motility was 24 ± 21% (fresh sperm motility without any cryoprotectants was 42%). After cooling at a rate of 20 C/min, post‐thaw sperm motility was 8 ± 5% and fertilization was 63 ± 40% evaluated at the 32–64 cell stage (5 × 105 sperm per egg). Overall, a protocol was developed for sperm cryopreservation in the Southern flounder with high‐throughput processing, which provides a tool to preserve the valuable genetic resources from neomale flounders, and enables germplasm repository development for the Southern flounder.
Evolutionary history and conservation significance of the Javan leopard Panthera pardus melas
Authors: Wilting A. , Patel R. , Pfestorf H. , Kern C. , Sultan K. , Ario A. , Peñaloza F. , Kramer‐Schadt S. , Radchuk V. , Foerster D. W. , Fickel J.
Published: May 2016

The leopard Panthera pardus is widely distributed across Africa and Asia; however, there is a gap in its natural distribution in Southeast Asia, where it occurs on the mainland and on Java but not on the interjacent island of Sumatra. Several scenarios have been proposed to explain this distribution gap. Here, we complemented an existing dataset of 68 leopard mtDNA sequences from Africa and Asia with mtDNA sequences (NADH5 +  ctrl, 724 bp) from 19 Javan leopards, and hindcasted leopard distribution to the Pleistocene to gain further insights into the evolutionary history of the Javan leopard. Our data confirmed that Javan leopards are evolutionarily distinct from other Asian leopards, and that they have been present on Java since the Middle Pleistocene. Species distribution projections suggest that Java was likely colonized via a Malaya‐Java land bridge that by‐passed Sumatra, as suitable conditions for leopards during Pleistocene glacial periods were restricted to northern and western Sumatra. As fossil evidence supports the presence of leopards on Sumatra at the beginning of the Late Pleistocene, our projections are consistent with a scenario involving the extinction of leopards on Sumatra as a consequence of the Toba super volcanic eruption (~74 kya). The impact of this eruption was minor on Java, suggesting that leopards managed to survive here. Currently, only a few hundred leopards still live in the wild and only about 50 are managed in captivity. Therefore, this unique and distinctive subspecies requires urgent, concerted conservation efforts, integrating in situ and ex situ conservation management activities in a One Plan Approach to species conservation management.
Genomewide ancestry and divergence patterns from low‐coverage sequencing data reveal a complex history of admixture in wild baboons
Authors: Wall Jeffrey D. , Schlebusch Stephen A. , Alberts Susan C. , Cox Laura A. , Snyder‐Mackler Noah , Nevonen Kimberly A. , Carbone Lucia , Tung Jenny
Published: May 2016

Naturally occurring admixture has now been documented in every major primate lineage, suggesting its key role in primate evolutionary history. Active primate hybrid zones can provide valuable insight into this process. Here, we investigate the history of admixture in one of the best‐studied natural primate hybrid zones, between yellow baboons (Papio cynocephalus) and anubis baboons (Papio anubis) in the Amboseli ecosystem of Kenya. We generated a new genome assembly for yellow baboon and low‐coverage genomewide resequencing data from yellow baboons, anubis baboons and known hybrids (n = 44). Using a novel composite likelihood method for estimating local ancestry from low‐coverage data, we found high levels of genetic diversity and genetic differentiation between the parent taxa, and excellent agreement between genome‐scale ancestry estimates and a priori pedigree, life history and morphology‐based estimates (r2 = 0.899). However, even putatively unadmixed Amboseli yellow individuals carried a substantial proportion of anubis ancestry, presumably due to historical admixture. Further, the distribution of shared vs. fixed differences between a putatively unadmixed Amboseli yellow baboon and an unadmixed anubis baboon, both sequenced at high coverage, is inconsistent with simple isolation–migration or equilibrium migration models. Our findings suggest a complex process of intermittent contact that has occurred multiple times in baboon evolutionary history, despite no obvious fitness costs to hybrids or major geographic or behavioural barriers. In combination with the extensive phenotypic data available for baboon hybrids, our results provide valuable context for understanding the history of admixture in primates, including in our own lineage.
Evaluation of incubation time for dermatophytes cultures
Authors: Rezusta Antonio , de la Fuente Sonia , Gilaberte Yolanda , Vidal‐García Matxalen , Alcalá Leticia , López‐Calleja Ana , Ruiz Maria Angeles , Revillo Maria José
Published: May 2016

In general, it is recommended to incubate dermatophytes cultures for a minimum of 4 weeks. Several aspects of routine fungal cultures should be evaluated in order to implement appropriate and necessary changes. The aim of this study was to determine the optimum incubation time for routine dermatophytes cultures, analysing the time to find first fungal growth by visual observation. We recorded the time when the initial growth was detected for all dermatophyte isolates during a 4‐year period. A total of 5459 dermatophyte cultures were submitted to our laboratory. From the total cultures, only 16 (1.42%) isolates were recovered over/after 17 days of incubation and only three dermatophyte species were recovered over 17 days. Fourteen isolates belong to Trichophyton rubrum, one isolate to Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex and one isolate to Epidermophyton floccosum. We concluded that an incubation period of 17 days is enough to establish a microbiological diagnosis of dermatophytosis.
Habitat conditions and phenological tree traits overrule the influence of tree genotype in the needle mycobiome–Picea glauca system at an arctic treeline ecotone
Authors: Eusemann Pascal , Schnittler Martin , Nilsson R. Henrik , Jumpponen Ari , Dahl Mathilde B. , Würth David G. , Buras Allan , Wilmking Martin , Unterseher Martin
Published: May 2016

Plant‐associated mycobiomes in extreme habitats are understudied and poorly understood.

We analysed Illumina‐generated ITS1 sequences from the needle mycobiome of white spruce (Picea glauca) at the northern treeline in Alaska (USA). Sequences were obtained from the same DNA that was used for tree genotyping. In the present study, fungal metabarcoding and tree microsatellite data were compared for the first time.

In general, neighbouring trees shared more fungal taxa with each other than trees growing in further distance. Mycobiomes correlated strongly with phenological host traits and local habitat characteristics contrasting a dense forest stand with an open treeline site. Genetic similarity between trees did not influence fungal composition and no significant correlation existed between needle mycobiome and tree genotype.

Our results suggest the pronounced influence of local habitat conditions and phenotypic tree traits on needle‐inhabiting fungi. By contrast, the tree genetic identity cannot be benchmarked as a dominant driver for needle‐inhabiting mycobiomes, at least not for white spruce in this extreme environment.
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis is associated with pet ownership in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Thronicke Anja , Heger Nikola , Antweiler Elisabeth , Krannich Alexander , Roehmel Jobst , Brandt Claudia , Staab Doris , Tintelnot Kathrin , Schwarz Carsten
Published: May 2016

Background

Late diagnosis of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) is associated with significant lung function decline and morbidity in cystic fibrosis (CF). The association of ABPA and domestic pet ownership in patients with CF has not been elucidated yet. Our objective was to determine the association of ABPA with pet ownership in patients with CF.

Methods

Clinical and microbiological data from certified local patient registry were analyzed for 109 patients with CF aged 1–64 years: 55 pet owner and 54 non‐pet owners. The primary outcome of the retrospective observational study was the occurrence of ABPA in pet owners and non‐pet owners with CF. The free statistical software R was utilized to investigate logistic regression models for association factors.

Results

Of the 109 patients included in the study, 61 (56%) were female. The mean age of the total group was 25.4 ± 13.2 years. Adjusted analysis revealed that ABPA (OR 5.0227, 95% CI: 1.182–21.340, p = 0.029) was associated with pet ownership in patients with CF. Furthermore, ABPA in pet owners with CF was associated with an increased number of exacerbations (OR 6.446, 95% CI: 1.057–39.328, p = 0.043). Other outcomes did not significantly differ.

Conclusion

Owning a pet was associated with ABPA in patients with CF. Future prospective multicenter longitudinal studies are needed to investigate chronological causality between pet ownership, ABPA development, and pulmonary exacerbations and to determine whether these estimates are generalizable for ABPA susceptible patients beyond CF (asthma, bronchiectasis).
Hydraulic conductance and the maintenance of water balance in flowers
Authors: Roddy Adam B. , Brodersen Craig R. , Dawson Todd E.
Published: May 2016

Flowers face desiccating conditions, yet little is known about their ability to transport water. We quantified variability in floral hydraulic conductance (Kflower) for 20 species from 10 families and related it to traits hypothesized to be associated with liquid and vapour phase water transport. Basal angiosperm flowers had trait values associated with higher water and carbon costs than monocot and eudicot flowers.Kflowerwas coordinated with water supply (vein length per area,VLA) and loss (minimum epidermal conductance,gmin) traits among the magnoliids, but was insensitive to variation in these traits among the monocots and eudicots. Phylogenetic independent contrast (PIC) correlations revealed that few traits had undergone coordinated evolution. However,VLAand the desiccation time (Tdes), the quotient of water content andgmin, had significant trait and PIC correlations. The near absence of stomata from monocot and eudicot flowers may have been critical in minimizing water loss rates among these clades. Early divergent, basal angiosperm flowers maintain higherKflowerbecause of traits associated with high rates water loss and water supply, while monocot and eudicot flowers employ a more conservative strategy of limiting water loss and may rely on stored water to maintain turgor and delay desiccation.
Problems on the Evaluation of the Critical Wavelength of Sunscreens for “Broad Spectrum” Approval Brought on by Viscous Fingering During Sunscreen Application
Authors: Wakabayashi Misaki , Okano Kunihiko , Mukawa Tsubasa , Maezawa Daisuke , Masaki Hitoshi , Kuroda Akihiro , Asakura Kouichi
Published: May 2016

When a viscous liquid is applied to a solid substrate, a patterned liquid layer is usually formed by the phenomenon called viscous fingering, since the moving liquid surface is in far‐from‐equilibrium conditions to let the morphological fluctuation to grow. Pseudosunscreen solutions were prepared and applied on a flat quartz plate. A spatially periodic stripe pattern was formed on the pseudosunscreen layer when a block applicator was used, whereas a flat surface layer was formed when a four‐sided applicator was used. UV absorbance of the patterned layer was lower than that of the flat layer having the same average thickness. In addition, a larger decrease in the UV absorbance by the pattern formation was observed at wavelengths at which the UV absorbance of the flat layer was large, which was consistent with theoretical simulations. In 2011, US FDA introduced a new rule using the term “Broad Spectrum” for labeling the sunscreens. The different decrease in the UV absorbance at each wavelength was found to change the critical wavelength, which is a criterion for sunscreens to be labeled as “Broad Spectrum” protection. The result of this study makes the problem on the evaluation of the critical wavelength come to the surface.
An Adaptive Spatiotemporal Smoothing Model for Estimating Trends and Step Changes in Disease Risk
Authors: Rushworth Alastair , Lee Duncan , Sarran Christophe
Published: May 2016

Statistical models used to estimate the spatiotemporal pattern in disease risk from areal unit data represent the risk surface for each time period with known covariates and a set of spatially smooth random effects. The latter act as a proxy for unmeasured spatial confounding, whose spatial structure is often characterized by a spatially smooth evolution between some pairs of adjacent areal units whereas other pairs exhibit large step changes. This spatial heterogeneity is not consistent with existing global smoothing models, in which partial correlation exists between all pairs of adjacent spatial random effects. Therefore we propose a novel space–time disease model with an adaptive spatial smoothing specification that can identify step changes. The model is motivated by a new study of respiratory and circulatory disease risk across the set of local authorities in England and is rigorously tested by simulation to assess its efficacy. Results from the England study show that the two diseases have similar spatial patterns in risk and exhibit some common step changes in the unmeasured component of risk between neighbouring local authorities.
Concepts and Measures of Saving: Selected Issues for South Africa
Authors: Orthofer Anna
Published: May 2016

South African household savings rates have been declining steadily over the last five decades, raising concerns that the population structurally under‐saves. Against the background of new saving‐enhancing policy initiatives, this paper asks to what extent the concern is founded, and whether the measurement of saving is really appropriate to guide economic policy. Comparing different macroeconomic concepts and measurements of saving, we show that the measure of saving in the national accounts (the residual between income and expenditure) understates the household savings rate compared to other measures. Specifically, an alternative measure from the balance sheets (the change in wealth) yields a significantly higher and non‐declining figure. While households have not been “putting aside” their incomes, they have nevertheless grown richer, driven largely by the appreciation of asset valuations. We also examine the impact of taking non‐financial saving and wealth into account, and conclude that household sector saving on the aggregate is significantly higher than the national accounts suggest. However, these adjusted measures are most relevant for the upper tail of the income and wealth distribution, raising important distributional concerns.
The Contribution of Social Behavior to Diabetes and Obesity: Do Health Behaviors Matter in the African‐American Community?
Authors: Towns Tangela G.
Published: May 2016

The obstacles experienced by those who are overweight and suffering from associated ailments are immense. This literature review evaluates the health behaviors and the socio‐structural barriers among African‐Americans that contribute to the high prevalence of obesity and diabetes. These include behaviors of African‐Americans that contribute to diabetes such as diet behavior, social behaviors, as well as behaviors that manifest in socioeconomic status. This assessment will be used to provide insights as they pertain to African‐Americans, cultural beliefs and practices, and their impact on the development of diabetes. This review illustrates that many of the aforementioned behaviors are embedded within and are shaped by broader social structures. This literature offers policy recommendations to assist in the elimination of health disparities specifically within the African‐American community.
An alternative to dextran for the thawing of cord blood units
Authors: Cloutier Marc , Simard Carl , Jobin Christine , Fournier Diane , Néron Sonia
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Preparation of umbilical cord blood units (CBUs) for infusion requires a step of dilution or washing to reduce the toxicity of the dimethyl sulfoxide present in the freezing solution. However, the worldwide shortage of clinical‐grade dextran 40, the most widely used cord blood dilution or washing solution, prompted us to search for an alternative solution. We elected to evaluate the performance of alternative solutions that could be used as potential replacements for the dextran 40–based solution.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Frozen CBUs were rapidly thawed and immediately diluted 1:4 in each of 10 dilution solution variants of dextran 40, Plasma‐lyte, or Hespan. We compared these alternatives by assessing viability, CD34, CD45, and colony‐forming units recovery postthaw.

RESULTS

A significantly lower CD34 and CD45 recovery was observed in all solutions without human serum albumin (HSA). All solutions with 5% HSA gave recovery, viability, and potency figures similar to the dextran 40/HSA solution.

CONCLUSION

Based on our results and considering that Plasma‐lyte A (PA)/HSA is already used for the thawing of CD34 from mobilized blood, we conclude that PA/HSA could be a safe and efficient solution for the replacement of dextran 40–based dilution solutions.
Quantitative and qualitative leukocyte abnormalities in dogs with experimental and naturally occurring acute canine monocytic ehrlichiosis
Authors: Gianopoulos Athena , Mylonakis Mathios E. , Theodorou Konstantina , Christopher Mary M.
Published: May 2016

Background

Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME) is one of the most important tick‐borne diseases worldwide. Cytopenias have been observed in both acute (nonmyelosuppressive) and chronic (myelosuppressive) CME; however, leukocyte abnormalities and indices have been incompletely described in dogs with acute CME.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to analyze temporal changes in differential leukocyte counts, leukocyte morphology, myeloperoxidase index (MPXI), and lobularity index (LI) in dogs with experimental and naturally occurring acute CME.

Methods

Differential leukocyte counts and morphology were evaluated in archived blood smears from 13 Beagle dogs experimentally infected with Ehrlichia canis and evaluated weekly for 42 days postinfection (DPI); 20 dogs with naturally occurring acute CME also were evaluated. MPXI and LI were obtained from ADVIA reports. Wilcoxon tests were used to assess changes over time; leukogram results in natural cases were assessed in comparison with reference intervals.

Results

In experimental dogs, significant decreases in neutrophil, monocyte, lymphocyte, and eosinophil counts, and a mild left shift occurred within 14 DPI. The MPXI decreased significantly between 14 and 21 DPI and remained low, while LI increased from 14 to 35 DPI. Lymphocyte counts rebounded at 21 DPI, normalizing total WBC counts. Neutrophil toxicity was seen rarely, but reactive lymphocytes were observed frequently. Dogs with natural infection had variable patterns of leukocyte changes.

Conclusions

Acute CME is associated with several discrete quantitative and qualitative leukogram changes indicative of concurrent inflammation, antigenic stimulation, and stress. Changes in MPXI and LI warrant further investigation in dogs with CME and other diseases.