bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population development of Frankliniella occidentalis and Thrips hawaiiensis in constant and fluctuating temperatures
Authors: Cao Yu , Yang Hong , Li Jun , Zhang Guozhou , Wang Yawei , Li Can , Gao Yulin
Published: September 2018

Temperature fluctuations may influence the behaviour of insects. Frankliniella occidentalis and Thrips hawaiiensis are sympatric pests on flower and vegetable host plants in China. This study evaluated the influence of constant (23.0°C) and fluctuating temperatures (average of 23.0°C) on the population development of these two species. The results showed that both of these pests showed faster development and higher fecundity at a constant temperature than at fluctuating temperatures when fed on Rosa rugosa flowers, and F. occidentalis showed faster development and higher fecundity than T. hawaiiensis under both conditions. Under the constant and fluctuating temperatures, the development times from egg to adult were 9.57 and 10.62 day for F. occidentalis and 10.71 and 11.82 day for T. hawaiiensis, respectively. The total numbers of first instar nymph produced were 103.08 and 86.32 by F. occidentalis, 86.96 and 73.32 by T. hawaiiensis, under the constant and fluctuating temperatures, respectively, and a higher intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm) (0.173 and 0.160) and R0 (46.31 and 36.86) were obtained in F. occidentalis compared with T. hawaiiensis (rm for 0.154 and 0.141 and R0 for 34.46 and 27.81, respectively). Our results indicate that the constant temperature had a positive effect on the population development of both F. occidentalis and T. hawaiiensis. Furthermore, F. occidentalis showed a stronger adaptability over T. hawaiiensis at both constant and fluctuating temperatures, according to its faster development and higher fecundity. These results may contribute to the better understanding of the biology of different thrip species, especially the interspecific competition between invasive and native thrips under the changing environment. These findings also provide basic data for the thrip pests control by using fluctuating temperatures.
Association Between Subclinical Brain Infarcts and Functional Decline Trajectories
Authors: Dhamoon Mandip S. , Cheung Ying‐Kuen , DeRosa Janet T. , Gutierrez Jose , Moon Yeseon P. , Sacco Ralph L. , Elkind Mitchell S.V. , Wright Clinton B.
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To test associations between subclinical brain infarcts (SBIs) and functional decline independently of intervening clinical vascular events and other vascular risk factors.

Design

Longitudinal follow‐up for a mean 7.3 years. Generalized estimating equation models were used to test associations between SBIs, number of perivascular spaces (PVSs), baseline Barthel Index (BI), and change in BI, adjusting for sociodemographic, vascular, and cognitive risk factors and for stroke and myocardial infarction occurring during follow‐up.

Setting

Population‐based prospective cohort study.

Participants

Stroke‐free individuals from the racially and ethnically diverse Northern Manhattan Study (N=1,290).

Measurements

Annual functional assessments using the BI (range 0–100).

Results

Mean age was 70.6 ± 9.0, 40% of participants were male, 66% were Hispanic, 193 (16%) had SBIs, and 508 (42%) had large PVSs. SBIs were not associated with baseline BI. In a fully adjusted model, there was a change in BI of –0.85 points per year (95% confidence interval (CI)=–1.01 to –0.69); those with SBI had an additional change in BI 0f –0.88 points (95% CI=–1.43 to –0.32). There were no associations between PVS and baseline BI or change in BI.

Conclusion

In a large population‐based study, we found a strong and independent association between “subclinical” markers of cerebrovascular injury and important clinical, person‐centered functional trajectories. Future research could clarify the evolution of such subclinical markers over time and test strategies to prevent their progression and minimize related disability. J Am Geriatr Soc 66:2144–2150, 2018.
‘There is such a thing as too healthy!’ The impact of minimum nutritional guidelines on school food practices in secondary schools
Authors: Addis S. , Murphy S.
Published: September 2018

Background

Pressure to improve school meals has resulted in stringent nutritional guidelines across the UK. In Wales, the ‘Appetite for Life’ guidelines of 2008 resulted in significant changes to the provision of food in Welsh schools. Although evaluation of these changes has focussed on nutritional quality, there is little evidence of how pupils perceive these changes and their impact on school food practices. Using a Collective Lifestyles approach, the present study reports how secondary school pupils perceive and negotiate menu changes and the implications for lunchtime practices.

Methods

Seven focus groups (52 pupils) were undertaken in four secondary schools within one local authority in Wales. Participatory techniques were used to facilitate discussion, and the focus groups were recorded, transcribed and analysed using a framework approach. Analysis was underpinned by a Collective Lifestyles approach, which provides a framework to understand behaviour in context using three domains: (i) patterns of consumption; (ii) the construction and maintenance of identity; and (iii) power relationships.

Results

Pupils reported that the new menus were unpopular in terms of content and meal type; the preference was for portable and snack style foods. In terms of power relationships, pupils’ ability to negotiate within the school setting was constrained by the institutional nature of school dining. As a result, pupils tended to opt out of school food provision, accessing alternatives where possible.

Conclusions

The development of the healthy eating agenda within the school setting needs to consider the complexities of adolescent consumption preferences, identities and social networks if they are to be successful.
Calculations of second harmonic generation with radially polarized excitations by elliptical mirror focusing
Authors: WANG W. , WU B. , LIU P. , LIU J. , TAN J.
Published: September 2018

Second harmonic generation (SHG) polarization intensity distribution illuminated with radially polarized beams by lens focusing appears two peaks, when the nonlinear optical coefficients dominate that is relevant to the transverse electric field components. Such two peaks pattern may result in ghosting and the decrement of imaging resolution. In this paper, an elliptical mirror based system is proposed in the case of radially polarized beams illumination for SHG. The calculated predictions and numerical simulations demonstrate that for radially polarized beams, the proportion of transverse field components at the focal plane under the condition of elliptical mirror focusing is 2.6 times smaller than that with lens focusing when its numerical aperture (NA) is 1. Furthermore, the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the total field intensity profile is approximately 81% of that in a lens focusing system. Due to the enhancement of longitudinal components of incident field, the distribution of SHG polarization presents a single‐peak pattern, in which two peaks can be observed with lens focusing. The SHG polarizations in collagen fiber, KTiOPO4, and LiNbO3 have been numerical simulated and discussed in detail to verify the validity of the proposed method.

Lay Description

A novel focusing mode for second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopy is described in this paper. In the case of radially polarized excitations, the SHG polarization distributions of some specimens appear two peaks pattern with traditional lens focusing. Such two peaks pattern may result in ghosting and the decrement of imaging resolution. By introducing elliptical mirror, the modulation of electric field at the focal plane can be realized. Thus, the distribution of SHG polarization is converted into a single‐peak pattern which eliminates the ghosting and improves the spatial resolution on SHG images. This proposed method can be used for SHG in various materials and the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of SHG polarization will compress in different degrees. Besides, there is a significant improvement on signal‐to‐noise ratio in SHG imaging when an annular aperture illumination is applied. The focusing mode with elliptical mirror can also be utilized in other nonlinear optics areas such as polarized third harmonic generation (THG) measurements and two‐photon fluorescence (TPF) microscopy.
Expression and metabolic activity of flavin‐containing monooxygenase 1 in cynomolgus macaque kidney
Authors: Uno Yasuhiro , Shimizu Makiko , Yoda Hiromi , Yamazaki Hiroshi
Published: September 2018

Flavin‐containing monooxygenase 1 (FMO1) largely remains to be characterized in cynomolgus macaque kidney. Immunoblotting showed expression of cynomolgus FMO1 in kidneys where activities of FMO1 (benzydamine N‐oxygenation) were detected. No sex differences were observed in their contents or activities. These results suggest the functional role of cynomolgus FMO1 in kidney.
Correlation between pre‐procedural plaque morphology and patterns of in‐stent neointimal hyperplasia at 1‐year follow‐up in patients treated with new‐generation drug‐eluting stents: An optical coherence tomography based analysis
Authors: Shi Shun‐Yi , Chen Kai‐Lun , Gu Jue , Xu Chen , Chen Qian‐Ru , Chen Yu‐Qiao , Xu Tian , Ke Hai‐Yan , Sun Jian‐Hui , Ye Fei
Published: September 2018

Instruction

Several factors affect the in‐stent intimal healing process after drug‐eluting stents (DESs) implantation. We hope to investigate the influence of plaque characteristics on subsequent heterogeneous neointimal hyperplasia (NIH) using optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

The study population consisted 217 patients with single‐vessel de novo lesions who underwent both pre‐procedural OCT scan and 12‐month follow‐up OCT examination. NIH is defined as at least five consecutive cross‐sectional images with no less than 100µm neointimal thickness. According to OCT follow‐up, patients were divided into three groups: neointima‐covered group, homogeneous, and heterogeneous NIH group.

Results

102 patients were categorized in neointima‐covered group, 91 and 24 patients in homogeneous and heterogeneous group, respectively. Time interval between OCT scans was similar (P = 0.55). No significant differences in the patients’ age, gender, comorbidities, laboratory findings, procedural, and lesion‐related findings were found among these three groups. Heterogeneous group tended to have more subjects presented as acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (P = 0.04) and mean macrophage grade was higher in this group (P = 0.01). While no statistically significant difference concerning mean intimal thickness (P = 0.21) or neointimal burden (P = 0.73) was found between homogeneous and heterogeneous group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that mean macrophage grade (OR: 2.26, 95%CI: 1.12 to 4.53, P = 0.02) and initial clinical presentation of ACS (OR: 2.81, 95%CI: 1.03 to 7.72, P = 0.04) were significant independent risk factors for heterogeneous NIH.

Conclusion

Mean macrophage grade measured by OCT as a semi‐quantitative morphological risk factor, as well as clinical presentation of ACS, was associated with in‐stent neointimal heterogeneity after DES implantation.
Development of a quality improvement audit tool for the primary care of children with chronic wet cough using a modified Delphi consensus approach
Authors: Prime Samantha J , Marchant Julie , Chang Anne B , Petsky Helen L
Published: September 2018

Aim

In the absence of quality indicators (QIs) for the management of chronic wet cough, our study's aim was to determine whether consensus on QIs reflecting good primary health care, prior to referral for children with chronic wet cough, can be achieved.

Methods

A questionnaire consisting of 10 QIs was developed by a clinical working group based on current evidence and guidelines on the management of chronic wet cough in children. Each indicator reflected the quality of care provided to children with chronic wet cough in primary care prior to referral. A modified Delphi consensus questionnaire was undertaken involving expert paediatric respiratory clinicians and general paediatricians who graded the importance of each indicator for the purposes above. We a priori defined that consensus was considered achieved if >75% agreed on the indicator.

Results

Twenty‐two specialists (from Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Canberra) participated in the survey. The cumulative number of years of their respiratory experience was 324 and that of general clinical practice was 504. Consensus was achieved in all 10 QIs, with 6 reaching 100% agreement. Mean agreement for the 10 items was 97%.

Conclusion

As complete consensus was achieved on these QIs, it can be used as a provisional clinical audit tool and can guide the development of a robust audit tool for primary care clinical practice to assist with quality improvement initiatives.
Health‐related quality of life following surgical attenuation of congenital portosystemic shunts versus healthy controls
Authors: Bristow P. , Lipscomb V. , Kummeling A. , Packer R. , Gerrits H. , Homan K. , Ortiz V. , Newson K. , Tivers M.
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To design a health‐related quality of life questionnaire for dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts, use it in a cohort of dogs treated with suture attenuation and compare results with those obtained from a healthy control cohort.

Materials and Methods

Data were collected from the hospital records of dogs treated with suture ligation of an intrahepatic or extrahepatic congenital portosystemic shunt at two referral centres. Owners were asked to complete a questionnaire assessing their dog's health‐related quality of life preoperatively (retrospectively) and at the time of follow‐up. Owners of control dogs also completed the questionnaire.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐eight dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts and 131 control dogs were recruited. Median follow‐up time was 64 months (range 19.7 to 157.2). The median long‐term health‐related quality of life score was excellent for both intrahepatic and extrahpatic shunt cases and similar to that of control dogs. The long‐term portosystemic shunt clinical sign scores for both intrahepatic and extrahepatic congenital portosystemic shunt dogs were significantly worse than the those of the control group.

Clinical Significance

Suture attenuation of congenitial portosystemic shunts is associated with an excellent health‐related quality of life score at long‐term follow‐up.
Sleep and subjective cognitive decline in cognitively healthy elderly: Results from two cohorts
Authors: Tsapanou Angeliki , Vlachos Georgios S. , Cosentino Stephanie , Gu Yian , Manly Jennifer J. , Brickman Adam M. , Schupf Nicole , Zimmerman Molly E. , Yannakoulia Mary , Kosmidis Mary H. , Dardiotis Efthimios , Hadjigeorgiou Georgios , Sakka Paraskevi , Stern Yaakov , Scarmeas Nikolaos , Mayeux Richard
Published: September 2018

Subjective cognitive decline may reflect a dementia prodrome or modifiable risk factor such as sleep disturbance. What is the association between sleep and subjective cognitive decline? Cross‐sectional design, from two studies of older adults: the WHICAP in the USA and the HELIAD in Greece. A total of 1,576 WHICAP and 1,456 HELIAD participants, without mild cognitive impairment, dementia or severe depression/anxiety, were included. Participants were mostly women, with 12 (WHICAP) and 8 (HELIAD) mean years of education. Sleep problems were estimated using the Sleep Scale from the Medical Outcomes Study. Subjective cognitive decline was assessed using a structured complaint questionnaire that queries for subjective memory and other cognitive symptoms. Multinomial or logistic regression models were used to examine whether sleep problems were associated with complaints about general cognition, memory, naming, orientation and calculations. Age, sex, education, sleep medication, use of medications affecting cognition, co‐morbidities, depression and anxiety were used as co‐variates. Objective cognition was also estimated by summarizing neuropsychological performance into composite z‐scores. Sleep problems were associated with two or more complaints: WHICAP: β = 1.93 (95% confidence interval: 1.59–2.34), p ≤ .0001; HELIAD: β = 1.48 (95% confidence interval: 1.20–1.83), p ≤ .0001. Sleep problems were associated with complaints in all the cognitive subcategories, except orientation for the WHICAP. The associations were noted regardless of objective cognition. At any given level of objective cognition, sleep disturbance is accompanied by subjective cognitive impairment. The replicability in two ethnically, genetically and culturally different cohorts adds validity to our results. The results have implications for the correlates, and potential aetiology of subjective cognitive decline, which should be considered in the assessment and treatment of older adults with cognitive complaints.
High interindividual variability in plasma clopidogrel active metabolite concentrations in healthy cats is associated with sex and cytochrome P450 2C genetic polymorphism
Authors: Lee Pamela M. , Faus Michele C. L. , Court Michael H.
Published: September 2018

Clopidogrel response variability has been identified in cats. In humans, evidence suggests that variable clopidogrel active metabolite (CAM) generation is the primary explanation for clopidogrel response variability with differences in body weight, sex, and variable metabolism of clopidogrel primarily due to polymorphisms of the gene encoding cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 as some proposed mechanisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether variation in CAM concentrations exists in healthy cats and what the cause of such variation might be. Nineteen healthy cats were given 18.75 mg clopidogrel by mouth. Blood was collected 2 hr later. Plasma CAM concentrations were measured using high performance liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry. Clopidogrel metabolism was estimated by calculating CAM metabolic ratio. DNA was collected, and feline CYP2C genotyping was performed. The cats demonstrated high interindividual variation of plasma CAM concentrations. Approximately 69% of this interindividual variation was primarily explained by differences in clopidogrel metabolism as measured by CAM metabolic ratio with some influence by sex but not by weight. A single nucleotide polymorphism was identified in the feline CYP2C gene that explained in part individual differences in CAM metabolic ratio and CAM plasma concentrations.
Cognitive Language Aptitude
Authors: Doughty Catherine J.
Published: September 2018

After discussing key issues in the aptitude literature and presenting an updated, multicomponential model of cognitive language aptitude, we consider two analyses from a longitudinal investigation using aptitude to predict success in language learning. Aptitude is conceptualized as a special talent for learning languages and a ceiling on success. In other words, for any given person, when motivation is high, personality facets are aligned, and the learning context is excellent, differences in aptitude determine ultimate attainment. Findings show that the full Modern Language Aptitude Test and the full High‐Level Language Aptitude Battery each predicted adult language learning success outcomes. In addition, different combinations of components drawn from these two (by design) complementary aptitude batteries predicted different aspects of basic and advanced proficiency and did so above and beyond nonaptitude variables, such as childhood exposure, previous language learning, age at the time of training, level of education, and enjoyment.
Lawyers and the Conservative Counterrevolution
Authors: Southworth Ann
Published: September 2018

What roles have lawyers played in the conservative counterrevolution in US law and public policy? Two recent books, Jefferson Decker's The Other Rights Revolution: Conservative Lawyers and the Remaking of American Government (2016), and Amanda Hollis-Brusky's Ideas with Consequences: The Federalist Society and the Conservative Counterrevolution (2015), speak to the question. This essay explores how these books relate to a larger story of the conservative legal movement and the roles that lawyers and their organizations and networks have played in the conservative turn in American law and politics. It highlights four interrelated threads of the movement's development: creating a support structure for conservative legal advocacy; remaking the judiciary and holding judges accountable; generating, legitimizing, and disseminating ideas to support legal change; and embracing legal activism to roll back government. The essay then considers a continuing challenge for the movement: managing tensions among its several constituencies. Finally, it suggests how this story has played out in litigation to challenge campaign finance regulation.
Frontal Electroencephalogram Alpha Asymmetry Relates to Implicit Achievement Motives: A Pilot Study
Authors: Müller Barbara C. N. , Marx Anton K. G. , Paulus Markus , Meinhardt Jörg
Published: September 2018

The achievement motive is one of the core motives of human behavior and can be divided into two motives: an approach motive (i.e., hope for success [HS]), and an avoidance motive (i.e., fear of failure [FF]). Research has demonstrated that frontal electroencephalogram (EEG) asymmetry in the alpha frequency band is an important marker for differences in motivational processes. The present study investigated the relationship between resting state alpha asymmetry and the achievement motive. Resting state EEG was recorded, and implicit and explicit achievement motives, divided in HS and FF, assessed. Alpha activation asymmetries were calculated by subtracting the average left ln power from the average right ln power at frontal sites and at parietal sites as control position. Our results suggest a positive relationship between stronger left‐sided activation and higher implicit HS scores; no other significant correlations where found. Possible explanations for these findings are discussed.
Differential gene regulation underlies variation in melanic plumage coloration in the dark‐eyed junco (Junco hyemalis)
Authors: Abolins‐Abols Mikus , Kornobis Etienne , Ribeca Paolo , Wakamatsu Kazumasa , Peterson Mark P. , Ketterson Ellen D. , Milá Borja
Published: September 2018

Colour plays a prominent role in species recognition; therefore, understanding the proximate basis of pigmentation can provide insight into reproductive isolation and speciation. Colour differences between taxa may be the result of regulatory differences or be caused by mutations in coding regions of the expressed genes. To investigate these two alternatives, we studied the pigment composition and the genetic basis of coloration in two divergent dark‐eyed junco (Junco hyemalis) subspecies, the slate‐coloured and Oregon juncos, which have evolved marked differences in plumage coloration since the Last Glacial Maximum. We usedHPLCand light microscopy to investigate pigment composition and deposition in feathers from four body areas. We then usedRNA‐seq to compare the relative roles of differential gene expression in developing feathers and sequence divergence in transcribed loci under common‐garden conditions. Junco feathers differed in eumelanin and pheomelanin content and distribution. Within subspecies, in lighter feathers melanin synthesis genes were downregulated (includingPMEL,TYR,TYRP1,OCA2andMLANA), andASIPwas upregulated. Feathers from different body regions also showed differential expression ofHOXandWNTgenes. Feathers from the same body regions that differed in colour between the two subspecies showed differential expression ofASIPand three other genes (MFSD12,KCNJ13andHAND2) associated with pigmentation in other taxa. Sequence variation in the expressed genes was not related to colour differences. Our findings support the hypothesis that differential regulation of a few genes can account for marked differences in coloration, a mechanism that may facilitate the rapid phenotypic diversification of juncos.
A role for Saccharomyces cerevisiae Centrin (Cdc31) in mitochondrial function and biogenesis
Authors: Chen Li , Bian Shengjie , Li Hong , Madura Kiran
Published: September 2018

Centrins belong to a family of proteins containing calcium‐binding EF‐hand motifs that perform well‐established roles in centrosome and spindle pole body (SPB) duplication. Yeast encodes a single Centrin protein (Cdc31) that binds components in the SPB. However, further studies revealed a role for Centrins in mRNA export, and interactions with contractile filaments and photoreceptors. In addition, human Centrin‐2 can bind the DNA‐lesion recognition factor XPC, and improve the efficiency of nucleotide excision repair. Similarly, we reported that yeast Cdc31 binds Rad4, a functional counterpart of the XPC DNA repair protein. We also found that Cdc31 is involved in the ubiquitin/proteasome system, and mutations interfere with intracellular protein turnover. In this report, we describe new findings that indicate a role for Cdc31 in the energy metabolism pathway. Cdc31 and cdc31 mutant proteins showed distinct interactions with proteins in energy metabolism, and mutants showed sensitivity to oxidative stress and poor growth on non‐fermentable carbon. Significant alteration in mitochondrial morphology was also detected. Although it is unclear how Cdc31 contributes to so many unrelated mechanisms, we propose that by controlling SPB duplication Centrin proteins might link the cellular responses to DNA damage, oxidative load and proteotoxic stresses to growth control.
EFFECTOR OF TRANSCRIPTION factors are novel plant‐specific regulators associated with genomic DNA methylation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Tedeschi Francesca , Rizzo Paride , Huong Bui Thi Mai , Czihal Andreas , Rutten Twan , Altschmied Lothar , Scharfenberg Sarah , Grosse Ivo , Becker Claude , Weigel Detlef , Bäumlein Helmut , Kuhlmann Markus
Published: September 2018

Plant‐specific EFFECTORS OF TRANSCRIPTION (ET) are characterised by a variable number of highly conserved ET repeats, which are involved in zinc and DNA binding. In addition, ETs share a GIY‐YIG domain, involved in DNA nicking activity. It was hypothesised that ETs might act as epigenetic regulators.

Here, methylome, transcriptome and phenotypic analyses were performed to investigate the role of ET factors and their involvement in DNA methylation in Arabidopsis thaliana.

Comparative DNA methylation and transcriptome analyses in flowers and seedlings of et mutants revealed ET‐specific differentially expressed genes and mostly independently characteristic, ET‐specific differentially methylated regions. Loss of ET function results in pleiotropic developmental defects.

The accumulation of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers after ultraviolet stress in et mutants suggests an ET function in DNA repair.
Generalized fire response strategies in plants and animals
Authors: Pausas Juli G.
Published: September 2018

Despite the existing large body of research on plant–animal interactions, plant research and animal research are still relatively independent and asymmetrical in relation to disturbance. Animals and plants are likely to have different fire responses, yet biodiversity studies in relation to disturbance may benefit from a more integrated functional approach across kingdoms. This would also force us to go deeper into the biological mechanisms and scales for persistence than a taxonomic‐based classification. An integrated view of plant and animal responses would enable us to learn from a great variety of life forms and benefit from expertise in complementary disciplines. To achieve this integrated view, I propose a functional classification for both plants and animals in relation to their fire response strategy. This classification includes the following strategies: resistance, refugia, avoidance, dormancy, recolonization, crypsis and intolerance. Given the limited knowledge of fire responses for many organisms, and especially for many animals, this classification may require further development. However, it provides a framework that facilitates finding knowledge gaps and directing future research for gaining a better understanding of the role of fire on biodiversity.
Clinical and regulatory considerations for novel electrophysiology mapping systems: Lessons from FIRM
Authors: Wann Daniel , Waks Jonathan W. , Kramer Daniel B.
Published: September 2018

Atrial fibrillation (AF) presents a growing clinical and public health burden for which better rhythm control therapies are needed. Focal impulse and rotor mapping (FIRM), currently marketed as a part of the Topera Rotor Mapping system (Abbott Laboratories, Austin, TX, USA), represents a potentially transformational approach to guide the invasive treatment of AF. However, many years after its initial marketing clearance, the clinical utility of this technology remains uncertain. In this article, we review the scientific rationale for this novel approach to AF ablation, evaluate the current clinical evidence for FIRM‐guided ablation, and characterize its premarket regulatory assessment. Lessons for clinicians considering adoption of newly marketed mapping systems are presented.
Focusing on quality care rather than ‘checking boxes’: How to exit the labyrinth of multiple accountabilities in hybrid healthcare arrangements
Authors: Ewert Benjamin
Published: September 2018

Accountability relations in modern‐day welfare states have multiplied due to the complex interaction of institutional and sectoral logics. Against this backdrop, this article seeks to unravel complexities which surround accountability relations in hybrid healthcare arrangements. For this purpose, a framework of multi‐faceted identity is suggested in order to theoretically grasp multiple accountabilities of healthcare professionals. Accordingly, healthcare professionals have a cross‐cutting identity (being a professional) that is fortified with nested identities such as the one of partner, citizen and manager. Each identity facet is attached to a specific accountability form such as professional and civic society accountability. By focusing on three settings of healthcare provision—hospital, outpatient and integrated care—the usefulness of a multi‐faceted identity framework will be illustrated. It is concluded that developing a more nuanced understanding of healthcare professionals’ multiple identities and attached accountabilities might be a good starting point for planning healthcare redesign.
Interventional procedures in children and adolescents with chronic non‐cancer pain as part of a multidisciplinary pain treatment program
Authors: Vega Eduardo , Rivera Gonzalo , Echevarria Ghislaine C. , Prylutskyy Zakhar , Perez Jordi , Ingelmo Pablo
Published: September 2018

Background

Interventional procedures are part of multidisciplinary pain treatment programs to treat chronic non‐cancer pain conditions in children and adolescents. However, the real benefit of these interventions remains unclear.

Aims

The aim of this study was to analyze the potential benefits of the interventional procedures in children and adolescents with chronic non‐cancer pain in the setting of a multidisciplinary pain treatment program.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 98 children and adolescents receiving 314 diagnostic or therapeutic interventional procedures. We applied the following definitions of efficacy

Short‐term positive therapeutic effect: block that produced a minimum of 50% reduction in pain intensity for at least 4 weeks.

Long‐term positive therapeutic effect: a patient with a minimum of 50% reduction in pain intensity for at least 6 months

Full recovery: a patient free of pain, not taking analgesics with normal physical and role functioning 6 months after the last procedure.

Results

Seventy‐six of 112 diagnostic blocks (68%) were associated with a 50% reduction in pain intensity for at least 4 weeks after the procedure. One hundred and sixty‐six of 202 therapeutics blocks (82%) were associated with a short‐term benefit. Seventy‐two of 98 patients (73%) referred a 50% reduction in their pain intensity (17%) or had full recovery 6 months after the procedures (56%) and a MPTP. Psychiatric comorbidity and more advanced age were factors associated with failure to respond to interventional procedures.

Conclusion

The use of interventional procedures may represent a valid therapeutic option, associated with positive clinical outcomes within a multidisciplinary program.
Half a century of anesthesia for children: An interview with Dr. Nishan G. ‘Nick’ Goudsouzian
Authors: King Michael R. , Mai Christine L. , Firth Paul G.
Published: September 2018

The career of Dr Nishan Goudsouzian spanned half a century of pediatric anesthesia. His 50 years saw seminal contributions to the use of neuromuscular blocking agents in children, the development of proton beam therapy and magnetic resonance imaging for pediatric cancer, the introduction of the laryngeal mask airway, an explosion in the volume and depth of knowledge about pediatric anesthesia, the expansion of formal training in pediatric anesthesia, and the widening of academic efforts to improve anesthetic care for children worldwide. Based on interviews with Dr Goudsouzian, this article reviews the contributions of this Robert M. Smith Award winner to the development of pediatric anesthesia.
Genetic relationship of tropical region‐bred temperate japonica rice (Oryza sativa) plants and their grain yield variations in three different tropical environments
Authors: Lee Jeom‐Sig , Torollo Gideon , Ndayiragije Alexis , Berchmans Bizimana Jean , Choi Il‐Ryong , Gulles Alaine , Yeo Un‐Sang , Jeong O‐Young , Venkatanagappa Shoba , Kim Bo‐Kyeong
Published: September 2018

Temperate japonica rice (Oryza sativa) is usually grown in temperate regions. When grown in tropical areas, most temperate japonica rice plants flower prematurely and do not show sufficient vegetative growth. Fourteen japonica rice varieties and lines adapting to tropical environments were developed in the Philippines (tropical Asia) between 2008 and 2014. Their genomes were characterized by genomewide single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping, and their grain yields were examined in the Philippines during the wet and dry seasons and in a high‐altitude area of Burundi (tropical Africa). Based on the genotyping, all 14 materials were found to belong to the temperate japonica rice group. Grain yields were more affected by the environment than by the genotypes. Two of the fourteen rice materials showed more stable and higher yields than the check varieties across the three environments, and one of the two has been released as a commercial variety in the Philippines. Together, these results demonstrate that rice plants genetically belonging to the temperate japonica group can be bred to adapt to tropical areas.
Insect egg deposition renders plant defence against hatching larvae more effective in a salicylic acid‐dependent manner
Authors: Lortzing Vivien , Oberländer Jana , Lortzing Tobias , Tohge Takayuki , Steppuhn Anke , Kunze Reinhard , Hilker Monika
Published: September 2018

Plants can improve their antiherbivore defence by taking insect egg deposition as cue of impending feeding damage. Previous studies showed that Pieris brassicae larvae feeding upon egg‐deposited Brassicaceae perform worse and gain less weight than larvae on egg‐free plants. We investigated how P. brassicae oviposition on Arabidopsis thaliana affects the plant's molecular and chemical responses to larvae. A transcriptome comparison of feeding‐damaged leaves without and with prior oviposition revealed about 200 differently expressed genes, including enhanced expression of PR5, which is involved in salicylic acid (SA)‐signalling. SA levels were induced by larval feeding to a slightly greater extent in egg‐deposited than egg‐free plants. The adverse effect of egg‐deposited wild‐type (WT) plants on larval weight was absent in an egg‐deposited PR5‐deficient mutant or other mutants impaired in SA‐mediated signalling, that is, sid2/ics1, ald1, and pad4. In contrast, the adverse effect of egg‐deposited WT plants on larvae was retained in egg‐deposited npr1 and wrky70 mutants impaired further downstream in SA‐signalling. Oviposition induced accumulation of flavonols in WT plants with and without feeding damage, but not in the PR5‐deficient mutant. We demonstrated that egg‐mediated improvement of A. thaliana's antiherbivore defence involves SA‐signalling in an NPR1‐independent manner and is associated with accumulation of flavonols.
Alternative methods for virtual heart transplant—Size matching for pediatric heart transplantation with and without donor medical images available
Authors: Plasencia Jonathan D. , Kamarianakis Yiannis , Ryan Justin R. , Karamlou Tara , Park Susan S. , Nigro John J. , Frakes David. H. , Pophal Stephen G. , Lagerstrom Carl F. , Velez Daniel A. , Zangwill Steven D.
Published: September 2018

Background

Listed pediatric heart transplant patients have the highest solid‐organ waitlist mortality rate. The donor‐recipient body weight (DRBW) ratio is the clinical standard for allograft size matching but may unnecessarily limit a patient's donor pool. To overcome DRBW ratio limitations, two methods of performing virtual heart transplant fit assessments were developed that account for patient‐specific nuances. Method 1 uses an allograft total cardiac volume (TCV) prediction model informed by patient data wherein a matched allograft 3‐D reconstruction is selected from a virtual library for assessment. Method 2 uses donor images for a direct virtual transplant assessment.

Methods

Assessments were performed in medical image reconstruction software. The allograft model was developed using allometric/isometric scaling assumptions and cross‐validation.

Results

The final predictive model included gender, height, and weight. The 25th‐, 50th‐, and 75th‐percentiles for TCV percentage errors were −13% (over‐prediction), −1%, and 8% (under‐prediction), respectively. Two examples illustrating the potential of virtual assessments are presented.

Conclusion

Transplant centers can apply these methods to perform their virtual assessments using existing technology. These techniques have potential to improve organ allocation. With additional experience and refinement, virtual transplants may become standard of care for determining suitability of donor organ size for an identified recipient.
Phenotypic plasticity as a clue for invasion success of the submerged aquatic plant Elodea nuttallii
Authors: Szabó S. , Peeters E. T. H. M. , Várbíró G. , Borics G. , Lukács B. A.
Published: September 2018

Two closely related alien submerged aquatic plants were introduced into Europe. The new invader (Elodea nuttallii) gradually displaced E. canadensis even at sites where the latter was well established. The aim of the study was to evaluate the combined effects of environmental factors on several phenotypic characteristics of the two Elodea species, and to relate these phenotypic characteristics to the invasion success of E. nuttallii over E. canadensis.

In a factorial design, Elodea plants were grown in aquaria containing five different nitrogen concentrations and incubated at five different light intensities. We used six functional traits (apical shoot RGR), total shoot RGR, relative elongation, root length, lateral spread, branching degree) to measure the environmental response of the species. We calculated plasticity indices to express the phenotypic differences between species.

Light and nitrogen jointly triggered the development of phenotypic characteristics that make E. nuttallii a more successful invader in eutrophic waters than E. canadensis. The stronger invader showed a wider range of phenotypic plasticity. The apical elongation was the main difference between the two species, with E. nuttallii being more than two times longer than E. canadensis. E. canadensis formed dense side shoots even under high shade and low nitrogen levels, whereas E. nuttallii required higher light and nitrogen levels.

We found that under more eutrophic conditions, E. nuttallii reach the water surface sooner than E. canadensis and through intensive branching outcompetes all other plants including E. canadensis. Our findings support the theory that more successful invaders have wider phenotypic plasticity.
Effects of glucanase treatment on the structure and mechanical properties of cell walls in the giant‐celled xanthophycean alga Vaucheria frigida
Authors: Mine Ichiro , Oda Sahori , Sekida Satoko
Published: September 2018

The cell wall of the tip‐growing cells of the giant‐cellular xanthophycean alga Vaucheria frigida is mainly composed of cellulose microfibrils (CMFs) arranged in random directions and the major matrix component into which the CMFs are embedded throughout the cell. The mechanical properties of a cell‐wall fragment isolated from the tip‐growing region, which was inflated by artificially applied pressure, were measured after enzymatic removal of the matrix component by using a protease; the results showed that the matrix component is involved in the maintenance of cell wall strength. Since glucose and uronic acid are present in the matrix component of Vaucheria cell walls, we measured the mechanical properties of the cell wall after treatment with endo‐1,3‐ß‐glucanase and observed the fine structures of its surfaces by atomic force microscopy. The major matrix component was partially removed from the cell wall by glucanase, and the enzyme treatment significantly weakened the cell wall strength without affecting the pH dependence of cell wall extensibility. The enzymatic removal of the major matrix component by using a protease released polysaccharide containing glucose and glucuronic acid. This suggests that the major matrix component of the algal cell walls contains both proteins (or polypeptides) and polysaccharides consisting of glucose and glucuronic acid as the main constituents.
A Glomus Tumour of the Elbow: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Anley Cameron , Vrettos Basil , Roche Stephen , Solomons Michael
Published: September 2018

Extradigital glomus tumours are relatively uncommon. We present a case report of a glomus tumour of the elbow and review of the literature with regards to the clinical features, work-up and management of these tumours, to highlight the importance of considering a glomus tumour as part of the differential diagnosis in patient with atypical pain around the elbow.
Synthetic Patch Rotator Cuff Repair: A 10-year Follow-Up
Authors: Shepherd Henry M. , Lam Patrick H. , Murrell George A. C.
Published: September 2018

Background

The present study aimed to determine the long-term outcome as a result of the use of synthetic patches as tendon substitutes to bridge massive irreparable rotator cuff defects.

Methods

All patients who previously had a rotator cuff repair with a synthetic patch (2-mm Gore DUALMESH ePTFE patch; Gore, Flagstaff, AZ, USA; or a 2.87-mm Bard PTFE Felt pledgets; CR Bard, Warwick, RI, USA) were followed-up at a minimum of 8.5 years postoperatively. Assessment of shoulder pain, function, range of motion, strength and imaging was performed.

Results

Six patients had an interpositional repair with a synthetic patch. One patient had died. In the remaining five patients, the mean tear size at repair was 27 cm2. At 9.7 years postoperatively, all the patches remained in situ and no patient required further surgery. The repair was intact in four out of five patients. Patients had improved external rotation and abduction compared to before surgery ( p < 0.02).

Conclusions

We describe the long-term outcomes of patients who had undergone synthetic patch rotator cuff repair for an irreparable rotator cuff tear. At 9.7 years postoperatively, patients reported less severe and more infrequent pain, as well as greater overall shoulder function, compared to before surgery. Patients also had increased passive external rotation and abduction. All the patches remain in situ and there have been no further operations on these shoulders.
Caring science research in the ambulance services: an integrative systematic review
Authors: Wireklint Sundström Birgitta , Bremer Anders , Lindström Veronica , Vicente Veronica
Published: September 2018

Background

The ambulance services are associated with emergency medicine, traumatology and disaster medicine, which is also reflected in previous research. Caring science research is limited and, since no systematic reviews have yet been produced, its focus is unclear. This makes it difficult for researchers to identify current knowledge gaps and clinicians to implement research findings.

Aim

This integrative systematic review aims to describe caring science research content and scope in the ambulance services.

Data sources

Databases included were MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL, Web of Science, ProQDiss, LibrisDiss and The Cochrane Library. The electronic search strategy was carried out between March and April 2015. The review was conducted in line with the standards of the PRISMA statement, registration number: PROSPERO 2016:CRD42016034156.

Review methods

The review process involved problem identification, literature search, data evaluation, data analysis and reporting. Thematic data analysis was undertaken using a five‐stage method. Studies included were evaluated with methodological and/or theoretical rigour on a 3‐level scale, and data relevance was evaluated on a 2‐level scale.

Results

After the screening process, a total of 78 studies were included. The majority of these were conducted in Sweden (n = 42), fourteen in the United States and eleven in the United Kingdom. The number of study participants varied, from a case study with one participant to a survey with 2420 participants, and 28 (36%) of the studies were directly related to patients. The findings were identified under the themes: Caregiving in unpredictable situations; Independent and shared decision‐making; Public environment and patient safety; Life‐changing situations; and Ethics and values.

Conclusion

Caring science research with an explicit patient perspective is limited. Areas of particular interest for future research are the impact of unpredictable encounters on openness and sensitivity in the professional–patient relation, with special focus on value conflicts in emergency situations.
Latent profiles of stress and their relationships with depression and problematic Internet use among college freshmen
Authors: Liao Pei‐Chun , Chen Ssu‐Kuang , Lin Sunny S. J.
Published: September 2018

As noted in previously published literature, college students frequently experience academic stress, financial stress, and the stresses caused by intimate, peer, and parent–adolescent relationships. The present study uses latent profile analysis to identify stress profiles based on the aforementioned five stressors among 430 college freshmen. Thereafter, we compare the levels of depression and problematic Internet use (PIU) among the different profile groups and investigate whether background variables could predict each latent stress group. Three latent groups were labelled as follows: Ordinary (n = 257, 59.77%); all moderate‐high (n = 98, 22.79%); and college‐life moderate‐high (n = 75, 17.44%). Compared with the ordinary group, the all moderate‐high and college‐life moderate‐high groups displayed significantly higher levels of depression. Moreover, the all moderate‐high group had a severer level of PIU than the college‐life moderate‐high and ordinary groups. Interestingly, males and students who were dating were more likely to fall under the all moderate‐high group than the college‐life moderate‐high group; but students who were more concerned with their academic performance were more likely to fall under the college‐life moderate‐high group than the all moderate‐high group. These findings have important implications for college educators and school counsellors with regard to developing appropriate interventions as required.