bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macrophage adaptation leads to parallel evolution of genetically diverse Escherichia coli small‐colony variants with increased fitness in vivo and antibiotic collateral sensitivity
Authors: Ramiro Ricardo S. , Costa Henrique , Gordo Isabel
Published: May 2016

Small‐colony variants (SCVs) are commonly observed in evolution experiments and clinical isolates, being associated with antibiotic resistance and persistent infections. We recently observed the repeated emergence of Escherichia coli SCVs during adaptation to the interaction with macrophages. To identify the genetic targets underlying the emergence of this clinically relevant morphotype, we performed whole‐genome sequencing of independently evolved SCV clones. We uncovered novel mutational targets, not previously associated with SCVs (e.g. cydA, pepP) and observed widespread functional parallelism. All SCV clones had mutations in genes related to the electron‐transport chain. As SCVs emerged during adaptation to macrophages, and often show increased antibiotic resistance, we measured SCV fitness inside macrophages and measured their antibiotic resistance profiles. SCVs had a fitness advantage inside macrophages and showed increased aminoglycoside resistance in vitro, but had collateral sensitivity to other antibiotics (e.g. tetracycline). Importantly, we observed similar results in vivo. SCVs had a fitness advantage upon colonization of the mouse gut, which could be tuned by antibiotic treatment: kanamycin (aminoglycoside) increased SCV fitness, but tetracycline strongly reduced it. Our results highlight the power of using experimental evolution as the basis for identifying the causes and consequences of adaptation during host‐microbe interactions.
Correcting the record of structural publications requires joint effort of the community and journal editors
Authors: Rupp Bernhard , Wlodawer Alexander , Minor Wladek , Helliwell John R. , Jaskolski Mariusz
Published: May 2016

Seriously flawed and even fictional models of biomolecular crystal structures, although rare, still persist in the record of structural repositories and databases. The ensuing problems of database contamination and persistence of publications based on incorrect structure models must be effectively addressed. The burden cannot be simply left to the critical voices who take the effort to contribute dissenting comments that are mostly ignored. The entire structural biology community, and particularly the journal editors who exercise significant power in this respect, must engage in a constructive dialog lest structural biology lose its credibility as an evidence‐based empirical science.
Extra‐medial thickness of carotid artery in patients with Behçet's disease: evaluation of atherosclerotic vessel wall changes with a novel carotid artery ultrasound index
Authors: Sereflican Betul , Kizildag Betul , Halicioglu Sıddıka , Goksugur Nadir , Tuman Bengu , Dagistan Emine
Published: May 2016

Objectives

Chronic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction are the characteristic features of Behçet's disease (BD). We researched carotid extra‐medial thickness (cEMT), a novel ultrasound parameter for atherosclerotic vessel wall changes, and carotid intima media thickness (cIMT), a widely accepted marker of subclinical atherosclerosis, in patients with BD, and we evaluated the relationship between these two parameters.

Materials and methods

In total, 31 patients with BD were matched to 26 control subjects based on age, gender, and major cardiovascular risk factors. Laboratory parameters, including lipid profile, were measured for both patients and controls. B‐mode ultrasonography was used to assess the cEMT and cIMT.

Results

There was no significant difference in the cEMT values between the patients with BD and the control group (P = 0.90). cIMT in the BD group was significantly higher compared with the control group (P = 0.021). There was a significant positive correlation between cIMT and cEMT (r = 0.585, P = 0.001). Both cEMT and cIMT were positively correlated with age and the presence of arthritis. There was linear correlation with sedimentation, C‐reactive protein, and cEMT.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate both cEMT and cIMT in BD. This study presents morphological evidence of subclinical atherosclerosis in terms of cIMT. Although there was no significant increment in cEMT, it has the potential to assess endothelial dysfunction in BD. Further studies are required to confirm this finding.
Genetic polymorphisms in genes related to risk‐taking behaviours predicting body mass index trajectory among Mexican American adolescents
Authors: Zhao Hua , Wilkinson Anna , Shen Jie , Wu Xifeng , Chow Wong‐Ho
Published: May 2016

Objectives

Obesity is associated with multiple health problems and often originates in childhood. The purpose is to investigate the associations of genetic polymorphisms in genes related to risk‐taking behaviours with body mass index (BMI) trajectory over adolescence among Mexican Americans.

Methods

This study included 1229 Mexican American adolescents who participated in a large population‐based cohort study in Houston, Texas. BMI data were obtained at baseline and two follow‐ups. The median follow‐up time was 59 months. Participants were genotyped for 672 functional and tagging variants in genes involved in the dopamine, serotonin and cannabinoid pathways.

Results

After adjusting for multiple comparisons, three genetic variants, namely, rs933271 and rs4646310 in COMT gene, and rs9567733 in HTR2A gene were significantly associated with BMI growth over adolescence. Using those three variants, we created an allelic score, and the allelic score was associated with BMI growth over adolescence (P < 0.001). With the increase number of variant allele, the rate of BMI growth over adolescence was slower. Finally, we identified another two genetic variants, namely, rs17069005 in HTR2A gene and rs3776511 in SLC6A3A gene were associated with obesity at last follow‐up.

Conclusions

The results suggest that genetic variants in selected genes involved in dopamine and serotonin pathways have noticeable effects on BMI over adolescence.
Police pay—contested and contestable
Authors: Mather Kim , Seifert Roger
Published: May 2016

This article provides an analysis of developments in the determination of police pay since 1919. It reveals the contested nature of public sector pay setting where the government of the day pursues short‐term economic goals rather than taking a long‐term approach to staffing issues in essential public services. In the case of the police, the Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) has traditionally used both industrial and political methods to put pressure on key government decision makers. Developments reveal increasingly fraught relations between the police and the government, with the 2008 pay dispute in particular marking a new low point. Once it became clear after the 2010 general election that the government would ignore industrial pressure, then the Police Federation of England and Wales felt driven to increase the activities of its political arm. This ultimately backfired with the Plebgate scandal leaving them naked in the negotiating chamber.
Nepal's Child Grant: A mixed‐methods assessment of implementation bottlenecks
Authors: Hagen‐Zanker Jessica , Mallett Richard
Published: May 2016

This article evaluates the implementation of the Child Grant, one of the major social protection interventions in Nepal, and identifies bottlenecks that limit its ultimate effectiveness. On the whole, while delivery works for many beneficiaries, we found inconsistencies between the way the policy is laid out on paper, and the way it is actually implemented. Targeting efficiency is high, despite the wealth targeting criterion not being applied in practice. Owing to informal awareness‐raising campaigns, beneficiaries’ knowledge on registration, eligibility and entitlement is patchy. Payment levels vary and tend to be infrequent. These implementation bottlenecks limit the Grant's effectiveness and temper some of its impact potential.
Body fat and menstrual resumption in adult females with anorexia nervosa: a 1‐year longitudinal study
Authors: El Ghoch M. , Calugi S. , Chignola E. , Bazzani P. V. , Dalle Grave R.
Published: May 2016

Background

The variables predicting the resumption of menses in anorexia nervosa (AN) after weight restoration have not yet been fully established. We therefore aimed to investigate the association between several clinical parameters at inpatient discharge and the resumption of menses at 1‐year follow‐up in weight‐restored adults with AN.

Methods

Demographic, anthropometric, body composition and eating disorder features were assessed in 54 adult females with AN who had restored normal body weight [body mass index (BMI) ≥ 18.5 kg m−²] at the end of specialist inpatient treatment. These variables were compared between participants who had resumed menses and those who were still amenorrheic 1 year after inpatient discharge.

Results

At 1‐year follow‐up, 35.2% of patients had resumed menstruation. No significant association was found between the resumption of menses and either age, duration of illness or BMI at inpatient admission, nor for BMI, global Eating Disorder Examination score or trunk fat percentage at inpatient discharge. Only total body fat percentage at inpatient discharge was significantly higher in patients who resumed menstruation, as confirmed by combined logistic regression analysis (odds ratio = 1.14, 95% confidence interval = 1.001–1.303, P = 0.049).

Conclusions

A higher total body fat percentage at inpatient discharge is associated with the resumption of menses at 1‐year follow‐up in weight‐restored adult females with AN.
Health transition after lung transplantation – a grounded theory study
Authors: Lundmark Martina , Erlandsson Lena‐Karin , Lennerling Annette , Almgren Matilda , Forsberg Anna
Published: May 2016

Aims and objectives

To investigate lung recipients' process of transition from prior the transplantation to one year afterwards, as well as what their main concerns are and how they deal with these concerns.

Background

During the last three decades, lung transplantation has been established as an effective treatment for patients with end‐stage pulmonary disease. Towards the end of the 20th century, the concept of survival expanded to also include improving health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). Although many studies have been published regarding lung recipients' HRQoL, aspects of health and everyday life remain understudied. Lung transplantation demands some kind of transition. However, very little is known about this transitional process.

Design

A qualitative inductive approach using Grounded Theory (GT) was used.

Methods

A total of ten adult males and five adult females (n = 15) with a mean age of 55 years were included in the study and interviewed one year after transplantation. The open‐ended interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim after each interview. The analysis of the material was performed consistent with Charmaz contructivistic approach of GT.

Results

The core category Reconstructing daily occupations summarises a process wherein the generated GT is present through four main categories: Restricting, Regaining, Reorganising and Enriching. The process of reconstructing daily occupations is necessary to regain health.

Conclusions

A trajectory of health transition is evident, starting pretransplant with the lung disease and severe illness and proceeding at least up to one year after the transplantation with experienced health.

Relevance to clinical practice

The result enables a unique possibility to enhance the lung recipients' striving for everyday life and thereby promote health. There is a need for change in the existing multidisciplinary transplant team to also include an occupational therapist to support and guide the lung recipients in changing their occupational patterns.
‘That red flag on your file’: misinterpreting physical symptoms as mental illness
Authors: Happell Brenda , Ewart Stephanie B , Bocking Julia , Platania‐Phung Chris , Stanton Robert
Published: May 2016

Aims and objectives

To ascertain the views and experiences of mental health consumers regarding the availability and quality of care and treatment received for their physical health needs.

Background

People diagnosed with mental illness have higher occurrence of physical health problems. Responsive health care services are crucial for prevention and management of physical health problems, and for reducing disparities in health between people diagnosed with mental illness and those who are not. There is limited research giving voice to consumer perspectives on their experiences with health care providers.

Design

Exploratory qualitative.

Methods

Focus group interviews with mental health consumers accessed via a consumer network group in a region of Australia (n = 31). All interview audio recordings were transcribed professionally. Interviews were thematically analysed.

Results

The main themes were: symptomising; failure to act and alertness to prejudice. The first two themes were consumer perceptions of the actions and behaviours of health professionals, and the third describes consumer responses to these behaviours and actions. Consumers described increased risks of illness and death because of undiagnosed physical illness despite their physical health advice‐seeking as the reason for the health consultation.

Conclusion

Health care providers’ non‐recognition of physical health problems presents a clear example of a significant and potentially life threatening health inequity. The service provider responses described by participants suggest that mental health consumers’ physical health needs may not be taken seriously.

Relevance to clinical practice

Clinicians need to take seriously the physical health needs and concerns of people with mental illness. Nurses can play a crucial role in the prevention of diagnostic overshadowing as part of a broader direction of balancing biomedical perspectives with other approaches to health care.
Current management of the neck in salivary gland carcinomas
Authors: Green Ben , Rahimi Siavash , Brennan Peter A.
Published: May 2016

Salivary gland cancers include a diverse group of tumours with many histological subtypes which occur in both major and minor salivary glands. As a result of this heterogeneity and different sites of presentation, there have been no randomised controlled trials to evaluate the indications and efficacy of neck treatments by either surgery or radiotherapy for occult or apparent neck node metastases. Neck dissection is an important treatment strategy for neck metastases arising from major and minor salivary gland malignancy as well as being useful for disease staging. However, there is considerable controversy in how to manage the neck in these patients. In this review, we discuss the management of neck metastases relating to malignant salivary gland tumours.
Topical formulations of miltefosine for cutaneous leishmaniasis in a BALB/c mouse model
Authors: Van Bocxlaer Katrien , Yardley Vanessa , Murdan Sudaxshina , Croft Simon L
Published: May 2016

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is caused by several species of the protozoan parasite Leishmania and affects approximately 10 million people worldwide. Currently available drugs are not ideal due to high cost, toxicity, parenteral administration and suboptimal efficacy. Miltefosine is the only oral treatment (Impavido®) available to treat CL, given over a period of 28 days with common side effects such as vomiting and diarrhoea.

Objective

To explore the local application of miltefosine as a topical formulation to enhance activity and reduce the drug's adverse effects.

Methods

The antileishmanial activity of miltefosine was confirmed in vitro against several Leishmania species. The permeation of miltefosine, in different solvents and solvent combinations, through BALB/c mouse skin was evaluated in vitro using Franz diffusion cells. The topical formulations which enabled the highest drug permeation or skin disposition were tested in vivo in BALB/c mice infected with L. major.

Key findings

The overall permeation of miltefosine through skin was low regardless of the solvents used. This was reflected in limited antileishmanial activity of the drug formulations when applied topically in vivo. All topical formulations caused skin irritation.

Conclusions

We conclude that miltefosine is not an appropriate candidate for the topical treatment of CL.
The effect of sleep deprivation on leadership behaviour in military officers: an experimental study
Authors: Olsen Olav Kjellevold , Pallesen Ståle , Torsheim Torbjørn , Espevik Roar
Published: May 2016

While several studies show that leaders frequently lack sleep, little is known about how this influences leadership behaviour. The present study encompasses an experiment that investigated how three main types of leadership behaviour: transformational (four sub‐facets); transactional (two sub‐facets); and passive‐avoidant (two sub‐facets) leadership differed across a rested and a long‐term, partially sleep‐deprived condition. A total of 16 military naval officers participated. In both conditions, the leaders managed a team of three subordinates in a navy navigation simulator, instructed to complete a specific mission (A or B). Both sleep state (rested or sleep deprived) and mission were counterbalanced. Leadership behaviour was video recorded and subsequently rated on the three leadership behaviours. Overall, the scores on transformational leadership (and on two of four sub‐facets) and transactional leadership (on both sub‐facets) decreased from the rested to sleep‐deprived condition, whereas scores on passive‐avoidant leadership overall (and on both sub‐facets) increased from the rested to sleep‐deprived condition. This study underscores the importance of including sleep as a potentially important determinant when assessing leadership effectiveness.
Influence of a Bacterial Amendment on Water Quality in Small Research Ponds for Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, Production
Authors: Li Yilin , Boyd Claude E.
Published: May 2016

There has been considerable interest worldwide in applying bacterial inocula to channel catfish ponds for improving water quality, especially for acceleration of ammonia nitrogen oxidation through bacterial nitrification. The effects of a selected bacterial amendment on water quality in small research ponds for channel catfish production were evaluated at the E. W. Shell Fisheries Center, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama. Three ponds were treated with the bacterial amendment Waste & Sludge Reducer™ (Keeton Industries, Wellington, CO, USA) at three times the dose recommended by the manufacturer every 2 wk, and three ponds served as controls. There were nonconsistent minor differences in water quality between ponds treated with a commercial bacterial amendment and control ponds on several sampling dates. However, the average concentrations of water quality variables did not differ (P > 0.05) between the treatments and control. Channel catfish yield was not improved by applying the bacterial amendment. This study demonstrates that the bacterial amendment was of no benefit in improving water quality in well‐managed catfish ponds where stocking rates, feeding rates, and amount of aeration are balanced.
Lifetime prevalence of non‐melanoma and melanoma skin cancer in Australian recreational and competitive surfers
Authors: Climstein Mike , Furness James , Hing Wayne , Walsh Joe
Published: May 2016

Background/Purpose

Surfing is one of the most popular outdoor aquatic activities in Australia with an estimated 2.7 million recreational surfers; however, Australia has long been recognized as having the highest incidence of melanoma in the world, and it is the most common type of cancer in young Australians. The aim of this study was to investigate the lifetime prevalence of non‐melanoma [basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)] and melanoma skin cancers in Australian recreational and competitive surfers.

Methods

Australian surfers were invited to complete an online surveillance survey to determine the lifetime prevalence of non‐melanoma and melanoma skin cancers.

Results

A total of 1348 surfers (56.9% recreational) participated in this study, of which 184 surfers reported a skin cancer (competitive n = 96, recreational n = 87). Of non‐melanoma and melanoma cancers reported, BCC was the most common (6.8%), followed by melanoma (1.4%) and SCC (0.6%). The relative risk was higher (P < 0.001) in competitive vs. recreational surfers [OR 1.74 (CI 1.28–2.31)]. There was a higher (P < 0.05) number of skin cancers reported on the face (23.5%), back (16.4%) and arms (12.4%). There were significant trends (P < 0.001) in reported skin cancers between competitive and recreational surfers, as well as significantly (P < 0.001) more skin cancers reported in males (14.6%) than females (9.4%).

Conclusion

Based upon these findings, individuals who surf are advised to regularly utilize sun protection strategies (avoid peak ultraviolet radiation (10 am–3 pm), rashvest, hat and sunscreen) and primary care physicians are recommended to regularly screen their patients who surf.
Nonprofit Policy Advocacy under Authoritarianism
Authors: Li Hui , Lo Carlos Wing‐Hung , Tang Shui‐Yan
Published: May 2016

Despite the increasing volume and significance of research on nonprofit advocacy, most studies have focused on the phenomenon only in Western countries. This article expands the scope of the literature by examining the advocacy activities of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in authoritarian China. This article focuses on three aspects of advocacy behavior: advocacy investment and use of insider and outsider tactics. Data analyses of an original nationwide survey of 267 environmental NGOs and semistructured interviews with 30 highlight how resource and institutional factors—government funding, government affiliation, foundation funding, and peer collaborations—shape NGO advocacy in China. The findings also suggest ways in which institutional actors may enhance NGOs’ capacity for policy advocacy.
Treatment with or without plasma exchange for patients with acquired thrombotic microangiopathy not associated with severe ADAMTS13 deficiency: a propensity score–matched study
Authors: Li Ang , Makar Robert S. , Hurwitz Shelley , Uhl Lynne , Kaufman Richard M. , Stowell Christopher P. , Dzik Walter S. , Bendapudi Pavan K.
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is a proven treatment for thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) characterized by severe ADAMTS13 deficiency, but the efficacy of TPE in suspected TTP with an ADAMTS13 activity level of more than 10% remains controversial.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a propensity score (PS)‐matched study of 186 adult patients included in the Harvard Thrombotic Microangiopathy (TMA) Research Collaborative registry who presented with TMA suggestive of TTP but an ADAMTS13 activity level of more than 10%.

RESULTS

Before matching, patients treated with TPE (n = 71) differed from untreated patients (n = 115) by several clinical measures. PS matching was performed to address clinical disparities between the two groups and resulted in a well‐balanced cohort of 59 TPE‐treated patients paired with 59 untreated controls, all of whom had TMA. After matching, we observed no significant difference in the primary outcome of 90‐day survival between the treated and untreated groups (hazard ratio, 0.88; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.44‐1.77; p = 0.72). In‐hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR], 0.77; 95% CI, 0.34‐1.75; p = 0.53) and the percentage of patients with platelet count recovery (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 0.77‐3.26; p = 0.21) also did not differ significantly between the two matched groups.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that routine use of TPE in the diverse group of TMA patients without severe ADAMTS13 deficiency may not significantly improve outcomes.
Decision‐tree algorithm for optimized hematopoietic progenitor cell–based predictions in peripheral blood stem cell mobilization
Authors: Wu Chia‐Yun , Chiou Tzeon‐Jye , Liu Chun‐Yu , Lin Feng‐Chang , Lin Jeong‐Shi , Hung Man‐Hsin , Hsiao Liang‐Tsai , Yen Chueh‐Chuan , Gau Jyh‐Pyng , Yen Hsiu‐Ju , Hung Giun‐Yi , Hsu Hui‐Chi , Tzeng Cheng‐Hwai , Liu Jing‐Hwang , Yu Yuan‐Bin
Published: May 2016

BACKGROUND

Enumerating hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) by using an automated hematology analyzer is a rapid, inexpensive, and simple method for predicting a successful harvest compared with enumerating circulating CD34+ cells. However, the optimal HPC cutoff count and the indicating factors to be considered for improved predicting have not yet been determined.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Between 2007 and 2012, a total of 189 consecutive patients who proceeded to peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) harvesting were retrospectively recruited. Baseline characteristics were analyzed to identify the risk factors for a failed harvest, which were defined as less than 2 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg. Variables identified by multivariate logistic regression and correlation analysis for predicting a successful harvest were subjected to classification and regression tree (CART) analysis.

RESULTS

PBSCs were successfully harvested in 154 (81.5%) patients. An age of at least 60 years, a diagnosis of a solid tumor, at least five prior chemotherapy cycles, prior radiotherapy, and mobilization with granulocyte–colony‐stimulating factor alone or high‐dose cyclophosphamide were independent baseline predictors of poor mobilization. In CART analysis, patients with zero to two host risk factors and either higher HPC (≥28 × 106/L) or mononuclear cell (MNC; ≥3.5 × 109/L) counts were categorized as good mobilizers and their harvest success rate was 92.3%. By contrast, 30.3% of harvests were adequate in the patients with three to five host risk factors and lower HPC and MNC counts.

CONCLUSION

A CART algorithm incorporating host predictors and HPC and MNC counts improves predictions in a successful harvest and might reduce the necessity of monitoring peripheral CD34+ cells.
Penetration of topically applied nanocarriers into the hair follicles of dog and rat dorsal skin and porcine ear skin
Authors: Knorr Fanny , Patzelt Alexa , Darvin Maxim E. , Lehr Claus‐Michael , Schäfer Ulrich , Gruber Achim D. , Ostrowski Anja , Lademann Jürgen
Published: May 2016

Background

In humans, topically applied nanocarriers penetrate effectively into the hair follicles where they can be exploited for the localized and targeted treatment of skin disorders.

Objective

The objective of the present study was to examine the applicability of particle‐based systems for follicular drug delivery in companion animals and livestock, which have a large follicular reservoir.

Animals

Skin samples from 10 beagle dogs, 14 Wistar rats and four ears from freshly slaughtered cross‐bred pigs were used.

Methods

Fluoresceinamine labelled poly (L‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) nanocarriers (256 or 430 nm) were applied on the different skin samples. After penetration, skin biopsies were removed and cryohistological cross sections prepared and investigated with regard to the follicular penetration depths (in μm ± standard deviation) of the nanocarriers using confocal laser scanning microscopy.

Results

In canine, rat and porcine hair follicles, the smaller nanoparticles were detected at mean follicular penetration depths of 630.16 ± 135.75 μm, 253.55 ± 47.36 μm and 653.40 ± 94.71 μm, respectively. The larger particles were observed at average follicular depths of 604.79 ± 132.42 μm; 262.87 ± 55.25 μm and 786.81 ± 121.73 μm, respectively, in canine, rat and porcine hair follicles. Statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) in the mean follicular penetration depths of the differently sized nanocarriers could be determined for the canine and porcine skin samples.

Conclusion

The mean follicular penetration depths of the differently sized nanocarriers were mostly significantly different between the different species, which might be due to different species‐specific follicular dimensions. This issue needs to be addressed specifically in further studies.
Evaluation of jejunostomy tube feeding after abdominal surgery in dogs
Authors: Tsuruta Kaoru , Mann F. A. , Backus Robert C.
Published: May 2016

Objective

To describe the use of postoperative intrajejunal feeding and to evaluate the association of preoperative plasma albumin concentrations with intrajejunal feeding‐related complications and clinical outcome.

Design

Prospective, observational study.

Setting

University veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals

Sixty‐four dogs.

Interventions

Jejunostomy tube placement during abdominal surgery.

Measurements and Main Results

Most dogs (81%) survived. The median intrajejunal feeding period was 2.1 days (range: 1–16 days;n= 64). Only 3 (5%) dogs received their estimated resting energy requirement by intrajejunal feeding. Of dogs that were fed intrajejunally (58 out of 64), most (55 out of 58) received intrajejunal feeding within 24 hours after surgery. Energy provision via the jejunal feeding tube did not differ between dogs with and without complications (P= 0.592), or between nonsurvivors and survivors (P= 0.298). Thirty‐five dogs ate voluntarily concurrently with intrajejunal feeding. Of dogs that ate voluntarily concurrently with intrajejunal feeding for ≤50% of the postoperative period, most (74%) survived to discharge. Complications were seen in 22% of dogs, and none were life‐threatening; gastrointestinal signs were most common. There was no difference in preoperative plasma albumin concentration between dogs with and without complications (P= 0.432) and between nonsurvivors and survivors (P= 0.727). Fecal score was not significantly different between the 2 liquid diets studied (FormulaV Enteral Care HLP and CliniCare Canine/Feline;P= 0.927).

Conclusions

A jejunostomy tube placed during abdominal surgery was likely to be used at the study institution. Few complications were seen and none were life‐threatening. Intrajejunal feeding was initiated early after surgery and did not interfere with the initiation of voluntary oral intake. Fecal scores were high and were useful for an objective assessment of fecal consistency in dogs with intrajejunal feeding.
Comparative biochemical studies of fresh frozen plasma and pooled solvent/detergent‐treated plasma (octaplasLG®) with focus on protein S and its impact in different thrombin generation assay set‐ups
Authors: Heger A. , Janisch S. , Pock K. , Römisch J.
Published: May 2016

Background and Objectives

The solvent/detergent treatment enables effective and robust inactivation of all lipid‐enveloped viruses, but also inactivates partly sensitive plasma proteins such as protein S. The aim of this study was to investigate the thrombin generation capacity of octaplasLG®, in particular focusing on the function of protein S in thrombin generation assay and the impact of assay settings.

Materials and Methods

Sixteen octaplasLG® batches and 32 units of single donor fresh frozen plasma (FFP) were investigated. For protein S, both functional activity and free antigen levels were measured. Thrombin generation assay was performed using two fluorogenic tests with different triggers. Finally, rotational thromboelastometry was performed.

Results

Mean protein S levels were lower in octaplasLG®, but a wider range of values was found for FFP. Clotting parameters and thrombin generation capacities overlapped between the two plasma groups as demonstrated using both thrombin generation assays and different triggers. Spiking studies with protein S‐depleted plasma, human purified protein S or antibodies against protein S confirmed a correlation between protein S and thrombin generation capacity under specific assay conditions, especially in an assay with low tissue factor concentration.

Conclusion

Correlation between protein S and thrombin generation capacity was demonstrated in the TGA. Due to higher variability in protein S content in the FFP group, overlapping haemostatic potentials of the two plasma groups were found.
A Computational Model to Study Film Formation and Debris Flushing Phenomena in Spray-Electric Discharge Machining
Authors: Pattabhiraman Arvind , Marla Deepak , Kapoor Shiv G.
Published: May 2016

A computational model to investigate the flushing of electric discharge machining (EDM) debris from the interelectrode gap during the spray-EDM process is developed. Spray-EDM differs from conventional EDM in that an atomized dielectric spray is used to generate a thin film that penetrates the interelectrode gap. The debris flushing in spray-EDM is investigated by developing models for three processes, viz., dielectric spray formation, film formation, and debris flushing. The range of spray system parameters including gas pressure and impingement angle that ensure formation of dielectric film on the surface is identified followed by the determination of dielectric film thickness and velocity. The debris flushing in conventional EDM with stationary dielectric and spray-EDM processes is then compared. It is observed that the dielectric film thickness and velocity play a significant role in removing the debris particles from the machining region. The model is used to determine the spray conditions that result in enhanced debris flushing with spray-EDM.
Investigation of Shear-Thinning Behavior on Film Thickness and Friction Coefficient of Polyalphaolefin Base Fluids With Varying Olefin Copolymer Content
Authors: Zolper Thomas J. , He Yifeng , Delferro Massimiliano , Shiller Paul , Doll Gary , LotfizadehDehkordi Babak , Ren Ning , Lockwood Frances , Marks Tobin J. , Chung Yip-Wah , Greco Aaron , Erdemir Ali , Wang Qian
Published: May 2016

This study investigates the rheological properties, elastohydrodynamic (EHD) film-forming capability, and friction coefficients of low molecular mass poly-α-olefin (PAO) base stocks with varying contents of high molecular mass olefin copolymers (OCPs) to assess their shear stability and their potential for energy-efficient lubrication. Several PAO–OCP mixtures were blended in order to examine the relationship between their additive content and tribological performance. Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy were used to characterize the molecular masses and structures, respectively. Density, viscosity, EHD film thickness, and friction were measured at 303 K, 348 K, and 398 K. Film thickness and friction were studied at entrainment speeds relevant to the boundary, mixed, and full-film lubrication regimes. The PAO–OCP mixtures underwent temporary shear-thinning resulting in decreases in film thickness and hydrodynamic friction. These results demonstrate that the shear characteristics of PAO–OCP mixtures can be tuned with the OCP content and provide insight into the effects of additives on EHD characteristics.
Parametric Identification of Nonlinear Vibration Systems Via Polynomial Chirplet Transform
Authors: Deng Y. , Cheng C. M. , Yang Y. , Peng Z. K. , Yang W. X. , Zhang W. M.
Published: May 2016

The response of a nonlinear oscillator is characterized by its instantaneous amplitude (IA) and instantaneous frequency (IF) features, which can be significantly affected by the physical properties of the system. Accordingly, the system properties could be inferred from the IA and IF of its response if both instantaneous features can be identified accurately. To fulfill such an idea, a nonlinear system parameter identification method is proposed in this paper with the aid of polynomial chirplet transform (PCT), which has been proved a powerful tool for processing nonstationary signals. First, the PCT is used to extract the instantaneous characteristics, i.e., IA and IF, from nonlinear system responses. Second, instantaneous modal parameters estimation was adopted to extract backbone and damping curves, which characterize the inherent nonlinearities of the system. Third, the physical property parameters of the system were estimated through fitting the identified average nonlinear characteristic curves. Finally, the proposed nonlinear identification method is experimentally validated through comparing with two Hilbert transform (HT) based methods.
Emergence of Delamination Fractures Around the Casing and Its Stability
Authors: Dahi Taleghani A. , Wang W.
Published: May 2016

Casing support and zonal isolation are principal objectives in cementing the wells; however, the latter objective always raises the most concern particularly when there is a potential formation fluid migration into the cement sheath. Wellbore integrity is highly dependent upon the integrity of the interfacial bonding between the cement and the formation as well as the bonding between casing and cement. A closer look at the common cement strength test data, performed routinely in the labs, reveals a complicated behavior that cannot be simply modeled using a single parameter, i.e., the interfacial strength. Here, we used cohesive interface constitutive equation to model the behavior of cement interfaces. Formation of microannulus is modeled by utilizing an axisymmetric poroelastic finite element model enriched with cohesive interfaces to simulate initiation of the failure zone and possible broaching of the failure zone along the wellbore to shallower zones. We demonstrated that it is possible to use data produced from routine tests, such as the push-out test, to determine not only the shear strength but also the normal fracture energy and the stiffness of the cement interface. Cohesive interface properties are calibrated such that simulated test results match with the measured response of the specimens. In the next step, we used these parameters to anticipate well-cement behavior for the field-scale problems. A sensitivity analysis is provided to show the role of each parameter in initiation and development of the failure zone. Interestingly, the shear strength, which is commonly measured from push-out tests, is not the only parameter determining the size of the fracture, but other parameters such as normal strength show equally important influence on initiation and propagation of the failure zone. The proposed approach provides a tool for more accurate predictions of cement integrity in the subsurface conditions to quantify the risk of wellbore integrity issues.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Multidrug-Resistant Klebsiella quasipneumoniae subsp.
similipneumoniae
Isolate from a Clinical Source
Authors: Ozer Egon A. , Morris Andrew R. , Krapp Fiorella , Henry Christopher S. , Tyo Keith E. , Lathem Wyndham W. , Hauser Alan R.
Published: May 2016

We report here the draft genome sequence of a multidrug-resistant clinical isolate of
Klebsiella quasipneumoniae
subsp.
similipneumoniae
, KP_Z4175. This strain, isolated as part of a hospital infection-control screening program, is resistant to multiple β-lactam antibiotics, aminoglycosides, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.
Complete Genome Sequence and Methylome Analysis of
Bacillus globigii
ATCC 49760
Authors: Morgan Richard D.
Published: May 2016

Bacillus subtilis
(Ehrenburg) Cohn ATCC 49760, deposited as
Bacillus globigii
, is the source strain for the restriction enzymes BglI and BglII. Its complete sequence and full methylome were determined using single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing.
Genome Sequence of the Fish Pathogen Flavobacterium columnare Genomovar II Strain 94-081
Authors: Kumru Salih , Tekedar Hasan C. , Waldbieser Geoffrey C. , Karsi Attila , Lawrence Mark L.
Published: May 2016

Flavobacterium columnare
causes columnaris disease in fresh and brackish water worldwide.
F. columnare
strain 94-081 was isolated from a diseased channel catfish in 1994; its genome sequence is the first completed genomovar II sequence.
Complete Genome Sequence of Klebsiella quasipneumoniae subsp.
similipneumoniae
Strain ATCC 700603
Authors: Elliott Alysha G. , Ganesamoorthy Devika , Coin Lachlan , Cooper Matthew A. , Cao Minh Duc
Published: May 2016

Klebsiella quasipneumoniae
subsp.
similipneumoniae
strain ATCC 700603, formerly known as
K. pneumoniae
K6, is known for producing extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) enzymes that can hydrolyze oxyimino-β-lactams, resulting in resistance to these drugs. We herein report the complete genome of strain ATCC 700603 and show that the ESBL genes are plasmid-encoded.
Draft Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium houstonense Strain ATCC 49403
T
Authors: Levasseur Anthony , Asmar Shady , Robert Catherine , Drancourt Michel
Published: May 2016

Mycobacterium houstonense
is a nontuberculous species rarely responsible for human infection. The draft genome of
M. houstonense
ATCC 49403
T
comprises 6,451,020 bp, exhibiting a 66.96% G+C content, 5,881 protein-coding genes, and 65 predicted RNA genes.
Genome Sequence of the Acetogenic Bacterium Moorella mulderi DSM 14980
T
Authors: Castillo Villamizar Genis Andrés , Poehlein Anja
Published: May 2016

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Moorella mulderi
DSM 14980
T
, a thermophilic acetogenic bacterium, which is able to grow autotrophically on H
2
plus CO
2
using the Wood-Ljungdahl pathway. The genome consists of a circular chromosome (2.99 Mb).
Draft Genome Sequences of Six Novel Bacterial Isolates from Chicken Ceca
Authors: Duggett Nicholas A. , Kay Gemma L. , Sergeant Martin J. , Bedford Michael , Constantinidou Chrystala I. , Penn Charles W. , Millard Andrew D. , Pallen Mark J.
Published: May 2016

The chicken is the most common domesticated animal and the most abundant bird in the world. However, the chicken gut is home to many previously uncharacterized bacterial taxa. Here, we report draft genome sequences from six bacterial isolates from chicken ceca, all of which fall outside any named species.
First Complete Genome Sequence of a Subdivision 6
Acidobacterium
Strain
Authors: Huang Sixing , Vieira Selma , Bunk Boyke , Riedel Thomas , Spröer Cathrin , Overmann Jörg
Published: May 2016

Although ubiquitous and abundant in soils, acidobacteria have mostly escaped isolation and remain poorly investigated. Only a few cultured representatives and just eight genomes of subdivisions 1, 3, and 4 are available to date. Here, we determined the complete genome sequence of strain HEG_-6_39, the first genome of
Acidobacterium
subdivision 6.
Associations between bride price obligations and women's anger, symptoms of mental distress, poverty, spouse and family conflict and preoccupations with injustice in conflict-affected Timor-Leste
Authors: Rees Susan , Mohsin Mohammed , Tay Alvin Kuowei , Thorpe Rosamund , Murray Samantha , Savio Elisa , Fonseca Mira , Tol Wietse , Silove Derrick
Published: May 2016

Objectives

Bride price is a widespread custom in many parts of the world, including in most countries in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia. We hypothesised that problems relating to the obligatory ongoing remittances made by the husband and his family to the bride's family may be a source of mental disturbance (in the form of explosive anger and severe mental distress) among women. In addition, we postulated that problems arising with bride price would be associated with conflict with the spouse and family, poverty and women's preoccupations with injustice.

Design

A mixed-methods study comprising a total community household survey and semistructured qualitative interviews.

Setting

Two villages, one urban, the other rural, in Timor-Leste.

Participants

1193 married women participated in the household survey and a structured subsample of 77 women participated in qualitative interviews.

Results

Problems with bride price showed a consistent dose–effect relationship with sudden episodes of explosive anger, excessive anger and severe psychological distress. Women with the most severe problems with bride price had twice the poverty scores as those with no problems with the custom. Women with the most severe problems with bride price also reported a threefold increase in conflict with their spouse and a fivefold increase in conflict with family. They also reported heightened preoccupations with injustice.

Conclusions

Our study is the first to show consistent associations between problems with bride price obligations and mental distress, poverty, conflict with spouse and family and preoccupations with injustice among women in a low-income, postconflict country.
Retrospective hepatitis C seroprevalence screening in the antenatal setting—should we be screening antenatal women?
Authors: Orkin Chloe , Jeffery-Smith Anna , Foster Graham R , Tong C Y William
Published: May 2016

Objectives

An unlinked anonymous seroprevalence study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in samples derived from antenatal clinic attendees at 2 East London Hospitals. An unexpectedly high HCV seroprevalence of 2.6% (1.2% viraemic) had been revealed during an unlinked study of the emergency department at 1 of these hospitals.

Design

1000 stored residual samples were tested for HCV antibody (anti-HCV) and reactive samples were further tested for HCV RNA. The study was reviewed by the East Midland NRES ethics committee project ID 181154, approval number 15/WS/0125.

Results

The anti-HCV reactivity rate was 0.5% (5/1000) with 0.1% (1/1000) confirmed viraemic. Prevalence for the other blood-borne viruses was higher: 1% (10/1000) were hepatitis B surface antigen positive and 0.3% were HIV antigen/antibody positive (3/1000). There were no co-infections.

Conclusions

More data to establish the prevalence of HCV in the antenatal population is needed. The addition of anti-HCV testing to the well-established antenatal screening programme provides a unique opportunity to impact on the health of pregnant women, their children, partners and future pregnancies in this new era of treatment for hepatitis C.
Detraining-induced alterations in adipokines and cardiometabolic risk factors after nonlinear periodized resistance and aerobic interval training in obese men
Authors: Nikseresht Mahmoud , Hafezi Ahmadi Mohammad Reza , Hedayati Mehdi
Published: May 2016

This study compared the effects of nonlinear resistance training (NRT), aerobic interval training (AIT), and detraining on adipokines and cardiometabolic risk factors in middle-aged obese men. Thirty-three obese men were randomly allocated to NRT (n = 12), AIT (n = 10), and control (CON, n = 11) groups. Subjects in experimental groups performed exercise protocols 3 days per week for 12 weeks followed by a 4-week detraining period. The NRT involved 55 min of weight training with flexible periodization. The AIT consisted of running on a treadmill (4 × 4-min intervals at 90% of maximal heart rate, with each interval separated by 3 min at 65%). Peak oxygen consumption increased significantly after training compared with CON (P < 0.01), but it increased more in the AIT group than in the NRT group (P = 0.004). After detraining, peak oxygen consumption decreased significantly in both training groups (P < 0.001); however, the value in the AIT group was still higher than that in the CON group (P = 0.003). No significant changes were observed in serum levels of omentin-1 and interleukin (IL)-18 after training (P > 0.05), but omentin-1 decreased significantly in both training groups and IL-18 increased significantly in the NRT group after detraining (P < 0.05). High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) increased significantly after training in the AIT group compared with the CON group (P < 0.05) and returned to the pre-training level after detraining. Conversely, apelin-13 increased significantly in response to training, compared with baseline (P < 0.05), and remained unchanged after detraining. Both training regimens had similar effects on most markers; however, AIT seems to have stronger anti-coronary disease effects (as indicated by HDL-C and peak oxygen consumption) than NRT.