bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degradation of folic acid wastewater by electro-Fenton with three-dimensional electrode and its kinetic study
Authors: Xiaochao Gu , Xuebin Lu , Jin Tian , Xiaoyun Li , Bin Zhou , Xujing Zheng , Jin Xu
Published: January 2018

The three-dimensional electro-Fenton method was used in the folic acid wastewater pretreatment process. In this study, we researched the degradation of folic acid and the effects of different parameters such as the air sparging rate, current density, pH and reaction time on chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal in folic acid wastewater. A four-level and four-factor orthogonal test was designed and optimal reaction conditions to pretreat folic acid wastewater by three-dimensional electrode were determined: air sparge rate 0.75 l min
−1
, current density 10.26 mA cm
−2
, pH 5 and reaction time 90 min. Under these conditions, the removal of COD reached 94.87%. LC-MS results showed that the electro-Fenton method led to an initial folic acid decomposition into
p
-aminobenzoyl-glutamic acid (PGA) and xanthopterin (XA); then part of the XA was oxidized to pterine-6-carboxylic acid (PCA) and the remaining part of XA was converted to pterin and carbon dioxide. The kinetics analysis of the folic acid degradation process during pretreatment was carried out by using simulated folic acid wastewater, and it could be proved that the degradation of folic acid by using the three-dimensional electro-Fenton method was a second-order reaction process. This study provided a reference for industrial folic acid treatment.
Beyond ‘significance’: principles and practice of the Analysis of Credibility
Authors: Matthews Robert A. J.
Published: January 2018

The inferential inadequacies of statistical significance testing are now widely recognized. There is, however, no consensus on how to move research into a ‘post
p
 < 0.05’ era. We present a potential route forward via the Analysis of Credibility, a novel methodology that allows researchers to go beyond the simplistic dichotomy of significance testing and extract more insight from new findings. Using standard summary statistics, AnCred assesses the credibility of significant and non-significant findings on the basis of their evidential weight, and in the context of existing knowledge. The outcome is expressed in quantitative terms of direct relevance to the substantive research question, providing greater protection against misinterpretation. Worked examples are given to illustrate how AnCred extracts additional insight from the outcome of typical research study designs. Its ability to cast light on the use of
p
-values, the interpretation of non-significant findings and the so-called ‘replication crisis’ is also discussed.
Using text analysis to quantify the similarity and evolution of scientific disciplines
Authors: Dias Laércio , Gerlach Martin , Scharloth Joachim , Altmann Eduardo G.
Published: January 2018

We use an information-theoretic measure of linguistic similarity to investigate the organization and evolution of scientific fields. An analysis of almost 20 M papers from the past three decades reveals that the linguistic similarity is related but different from experts and citation-based classifications, leading to an improved view on the organization of science. A temporal analysis of the similarity of fields shows that some fields (e.g. computer science) are becoming increasingly central, but that on average the similarity between pairs of disciplines has not changed in the last decades. This suggests that tendencies of convergence (e.g. multi-disciplinarity) and divergence (e.g. specialization) of disciplines are in balance.
Predicting age from cortical structure across the lifespan
Authors: Madan Christopher R. , Kensinger Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2018

Despite inter-individual differences in cortical structure, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies have demonstrated a large degree of population-level consistency in age-related differences in brain morphology. The present study assessed how accurately an individual’s age could be predicted by estimates of cortical morphology, comparing a variety of structural measures, including thickness, gyrification, and fractal dimensionality. Structural measures were calculated across up to seven different parcellation approaches, ranging from 1 region to 1000 regions. The age-prediction framework was trained using morphological measures obtained from T1-weighted MRI volumes collected from multiple sites, yielding a training dataset of 1056 healthy adults, aged 18-97. Age predictions were calculated using a machine-learning approach that incorporated non-linear differences over the lifespan. In two independent, held-out test samples, age predictions had a median error of 6-7 years. Age predictions were best when using a combination of cortical metrics, both thickness and fractal dimensionality. Overall, the results reveal that age-related differences in brain structure are systematic enough to enable reliable age prediction based on metrics of cortical morphology.

Graphical Abstract

Several measures of cortical structure differ in relation to age. We examined the cortical granularity of these differences across seven parcellation approaches, from a 1 region (unparcellated cortical ribbon) to 1000 regions (patches with boundaries informed by anatomical landmarks), and three measures: thickness, gyrification, and fractal dimensionality. Rather than merely examining age-related relationships, we examined how these parcellations and measures can be used topredictage.
Quantifying landscape‐level land‐use intensity patterns through radar‐based remote sensing
Authors: Howison Ruth A. , Piersma Theunis , Kentie Rosemarie , Hooijmeijer Jos C. E. W. , Olff Han
Published: January 2018

The increasing availability of high resolution and high frequency, radar‐based remote sensing data (i.e. observations on land surface characteristics, insensitive to cloud interference), makes it possible to track land‐use intensity more precisely at the whole landscape scale.

Here, we develop a new radar‐based remote sensing technique for large‐scale quantification of agricultural land‐use intensity across human‐dominated landscapes. We compare the respective abilities of Sentinel‐1 C‐band radar (C‐SAR, C‐band synthetic aperture radar) remote sensing data with the more traditional optical data, as MODIS enhanced vegetation indices (MODIS EVI), in capturing seasonality and the magnitude of land‐use intensity (quantity and frequency of biomass removal). Linking our novel radar‐based change detection algorithm to agricultural management activities on the ground, we quantify a whole landscape according to timing of mowing, a key grassland disturbance, thus capturing the dynamics of mowing regimes in grasslands.

We found that the radar‐based proxy provides a rapid and reliable measure of land‐use intensity, reliably predicting plant community composition at the landscape scale.

We tested this methodology using data on black‐tailed godwits (Limosa limosa limosa), a specialist breeder of lowland meadows which, over the last 50 years, has shown dramatic declines. During territory establishment, black‐tailed godwits preferentially used fields corresponding to intermediate radar‐sensed land‐use intensities. However, the present‐day timing of mowing in these habitats was such that most godwit broods were less likely to be successful than broods in grasslands used at a lower intensity.

Synthesis and applications. The newly developed radar‐based land‐use intensity quantification is a powerful tool that makes it possible for ecologists and land managers to include agricultural land‐use intensity measurements in population studies of the plants, insects, birds and mammals using these landscapes, at the spatial scale of entire populations. Applications of this tool include evaluating the effectiveness of European agri‐environment schemes aiming to increase biodiversity through decreased land‐use intensity or expanding the quantification of agricultural land‐use intensity to other geographic regions.
Where is the Growth Going to Come From?
Authors: Ellis Luci
Published: January 2018

As the mining investment boom turned down and became a drag on growth, the question has often been asked: “Where is the growth going to come from?” Commentators started speaking of a growth “handover”: if mining investment was not going to provide our growth, something else needed to. And for a while, particular non‐mining sectors did seem to pick up, to become in turn the new “engine of growth.” However, this article argues that the underlying drivers of growth over the longer term do not depend on external triggers. Instead, they can be found in the “three Ps” – population, participation and productivity.
Multicenter study of diagnostic procedures, genetic aberration analysis, and first‐line treatment of lung cancer in Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Hu YangBo , Hu Huan , Miao LiYun , Zhao Xin , Gu Wei , Heng Wei , Meng ZiLi , Feng Jian , You Yi , Xu XingXiang , Hu Rong , Li HaiQuan , Zhao Jie , Zhu XiaoLi , Shi MeiQi , Shen Li , Zhang XiuWei , Yin XiaoWei , Ma Hang , Shi MinHua , Yu Yong , Lv Hong , Cai LiMing , Feng GaoHua , Zhang YeQing , Wu Feng , Lv TangFeng , Song Yong
Published: January 2018

Background

Jiangsu Province, China, is highly developed economically and culturally, and has a high prevalence of lung cancer. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic procedures, genetic aberration analysis status, and first‐line treatment models of lung cancer in Jiangsu Province.

Methods

Lung cancer patients diagnosed in 2016 at 22 tertiary care hospitals were evaluated. Demographic characteristics, tumor histology, staging, family history of lung cancer, auxiliary examinations, genetic testing, and first‐line treatment were collected on discharge. Diagnostic and treatment data were analyzed by descriptive statistics.

Results

A total of 928 patients were enrolled. Chest computed tomography was the most frequently used diagnostic method; pathology diagnosis was carried out by transbronchial lung biopsy and transthoracic needle aspiration. Stage T1‐2N0M0 small‐cell lung cancer patients experienced surgical resection, and others received cisplatin and etoposide chemotherapy. Stage I and stage II non‐small cell lung cancer patients experienced surgical resection; stage III and stage IV patients received cisplatin and pemetrexed chemotherapy as first‐line treatment. Detection of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations occurred in 29.9% of non‐selective, 36.5% of locally advanced or metastatic, and 42.1% of advanced non‐squamous non‐small cell lung cancer. The overall EGFR‐positive rates were 49.0%, 52.5%, and 53.9%. A total 72.0% of patients with EGFR mutations were treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors.

Conclusion

Chest computed tomography was the most commonly performed diagnostic method for lung cancer. First‐line treatment was primarily determined by disease stages and EGFR mutation status, with few expectations.
Analysis of hypo‐ and hypermagnesemia in an intensive care unit cohort
Authors: Broman M. , Hansson F. , Klarin B.
Published: January 2018

Introduction

The aim of this study was to evaluate if magnesium deviations correlate with higher 180 day overall mortality or increased morbidity, compared to controls.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study on 5369 patients with 22,003 magnesium values treated at the Adult Intensive Care Unit at Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden during 2006–2014. The patients were retrospectively divided into a control group with only normal magnesium values 0.7–1.0 mmol/l, and three study groups; hypomagnesemic; Mg2+ < 0.7 mmol/l, hypermagnesemic; Mg2+ > 1.0 mmol/l and an unstable mixed group showing both hypo/hypermagnesemia.

Gender, age, disease severity represented by maximum organ system SOFA score, renal SOFA score, lowest potassium value and diagnoses classes were included in a Cox hazard model in order to adjust for confounding factors, with time to death in the first 180 days from the ICU admission as outcome.

Results

The hypermagnesemic study group and the mixed group showed increased hazard ratios for mortality; 1.4 (CI 98.3% 1.2, 1.6, P < 0.0001) and 2.1 (CI 98.3% 1.2, 2.8, P < 0.0001) respectively, compared to controls, while the hypomagnesemic group did not reach significance.

In addition, patients in the hypermagnesemic and the mixed groups are older, more ill with significantly higher EMR and SOFA scores and show significantly longer ventilator times and ICU stays, compared to controls.

Conclusions

Patients with magnesium deviations are more ill compared to patients with explicitly normal magnesium values throughout the ICU stay. Cox analysis suggests that the magnesium deviation itself might have an impact on mortality.
Multiphase experiments in practice: A look back
Authors: Brien C. J.
Published: January 2018

Multiphase experiments are introduced and an overview of their design and analysis as it is currently practised is given via an account of their development since 1955 and a literature survey. Methods that are available for designing and analysing them are outlined, with an emphasis on making explicit the role of the model in their design. The availability of software and its use is described in detail. Overall, while multiphase designs have been applied in areas such as plant breeding, plant pathology, greenhouse experimentation, product storage, gene expression studies, and sensory evaluation, their deployment has been limited.
An overview of confounding. Part 1: the concept and how to address it
Authors: Howards Penelope P.
Published: January 2018

Confounding is an important source of bias, but it is often misunderstood. We consider how confounding occurs and how to address confounding using examples. Study results are confounded when the effect of the exposure on the outcome, mixes with the effects of other risk and protective factors for the outcome. This problem arises when these factors are present to different degrees among the exposed and unexposed study participants, but not all differences between the groups result in confounding. Thinking about an ideal study where all of the population of interest is exposed in one universe and is unexposed in a parallel universe helps to distinguish confounders from other differences. In an actual study, an observed unexposed population is chosen to stand in for the unobserved parallel universe. Differences between this substitute population and the parallel universe result in confounding. Confounding by identified factors can be addressed analytically and through study design, but only randomization has the potential to address confounding by unmeasured factors. Nevertheless, a given randomized study may still be confounded. Confounded study results can lead to incorrect conclusions about the effect of the exposure of interest on the outcome.
Investigation of the Axial Gap Clearance in a Hydrodynamic‐Passive Magnetically Levitated Rotary Blood Pump Using X‐Ray Radiography
Authors: Thamsen Bente , Plamondon Mathieu , Granegger Marcus , Schmid Daners Marianne , Kaufmann Rolf , Neels Antonia , Meboldt Mirko
Published: January 2018

The HeartWare HVAD is a radial rotary blood pump with a combination of passive magnetic and hydrodynamic bearings to levitate the impeller. The axial gap size between impeller and housing in this bearing and its sensitivity to speed, flow, and pressure difference is difficult to assess. Shear stresses are exceptionally high in this tiny gap making it important for blood damage and related adverse events. Therefore, the aim of this study was to measure the axial gap clearance in the HVAD at different operating conditions employing radiography. To quantify the gap size in the HVAD, the pump was positioned 30 mm in front of the X‐ray source employing a microfocus X‐ray tube with an acceleration voltage up to 300 kV. Beams were detected on a flat panel detector (Perkin Elmer XRD 1611‐CP3). The pump was connected to a tubing circuit with a throttle to adjust flow (0, 5, 10 L/min) and a water glycerol mixture to set the desired viscosity (1, 4, 8 mPas). Rotational speed was varied between 1800 and 3600 rpm. In this study, for clinically relevant conditions at 5 L/min and 2700 rpm, the axial gap was 22 µm. The gap size increased with rotational speeds dependent on the viscosity (2.8, 6.9, and 9.4 µm/1000 rpm for 1, 4, and 8 mPas, respectively), but was independent from the volume flow and the pressure head at constant speeds. In summary, using X‐ray radiographic imaging small gaps in a rotary blood pump during operation can be measured in a nondestructive contact‐free way. The axial hydrodynamic bearing gap in the HVAD pump was determined to be in the range of about three times the diameter of a red blood cell. Its dependence on operating volume flow and generated pressure head across the pump is not pronounced.
Editorial: direct‐acting antivirals significantly improve quality of life in patients with hepatitis C virus infection—Author's reply
Authors: Younossi Z. M.
Published: January 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Younossi et al and Sanagapalli and Danta papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14423 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14467.
Editorial: tofacitinib and biologics for moderate‐to‐severe ulcerative colitis—what is best in class? Authors’ reply
Authors: Bonovas S. , Lytras T. , Nikolopoulos G. , Peyrin‐Biroulet L. , Danese S.
Published: January 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Bonovas et al and Tsai papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14449 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14480.
Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic drug–drug interactions of avatrombopag when coadministered with dual or selective CYP2C9 and CYP3A interacting drugs
Authors: Nomoto Maiko , Zamora Cynthia A. , Schuck Edgar , Boyd Peter , Chang Min‐Kun , Aluri Jagadeesh , Siu Y. Amy , Lai W. George , Yasuda Sanae , Ferry Jim , Rege Bhaskar
Published: January 2018

Aims

Avatrombopag, a thrombopoietin receptor agonist, is a substrate of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9 and CYP3A. We assessed three drug–drug interactions of avatrombopag as a victim with dual or selective CYP2C9/3A inhibitors and inducers.

Methods

This was a three‐part, open‐label study. Forty‐eight healthy subjects received single 20 mg doses of avatrombopag alone or with one of 3 CYP2C9/3A inhibitors or inducers: fluconazole 400 mg once daily for 16 days, itraconazole 200 mg twice daily on Day 1 and 200 mg once daily on Days 2–16, or rifampicin 600 mg once daily for 16 days. Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics (platelet count) and safety of avatrombopag were evaluated.

Results

Coadministration of a single 20‐mg dose of avatrombopag with fluconazole at steady‐state resulted in 2.16‐fold increase of AUC of avatrombopag, prolonged terminal elimination phase half‐life (from 19.7 h to 39.9 h) and led to a clinically significant increase in maximum platelet count (1.66‐fold). Itraconazole had a mild increase on both avatrombopag pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics compared to fluconazole. Coadministration of rifampicin caused a 0.5‐fold decrease in AUC and shortened terminal elimination phase half‐life (from 20.3 h to 9.84 h), but has no impact on maximum platelet count. Coadministration with interacting drugs was found to be generally safe and well‐tolerated.

Conclusions

The results from coadministration of fluconazole or itraconazole suggest that CYP2C9 plays a more predominant role in metabolic clearance of avatrombopag than CYP3A. To achieve comparable platelet count increases when avatrombopag is coadministered with CYP3A and CYP2C9 inhibitors, an adjustment in the dose or duration of treatment is recommended, while coadministration with strong inducers is not currently recommended.
Biologically representative and well‐connected marine reserves enhance biodiversity persistence in conservation planning
Authors: Magris Rafael A. , Andrello Marco , Pressey Robert L. , Mouillot David , Dalongeville Alicia , Jacobi Martin N. , Manel Stéphanie
Published: January 2018

Current methods in conservation planning for promoting the persistence of biodiversity typically focus on either representing species geographic distributions or maintaining connectivity between reserves, but rarely both, and take a focal species, rather than a multispecies, approach. Here, we link prioritization methods with population models to explore the impact of integrating both representation and connectivity into conservation planning for species persistence. Using data on 288 Mediterranean fish species with varying conservation requirements, we show that: (1) considering both representation and connectivity objectives provides the best strategy for enhanced biodiversity persistence and (2) connectivity objectives were fundamental to enhancing persistence of small‐ranged species, which are most in need of conservation, while the representation objective benefited only wide‐ranging species. Our approach provides a more comprehensive appraisal of planning applications than approaches focusing on either representation or connectivity, and will hopefully contribute to build more effective reserve networks for the persistence of biodiversity.
Effect of immediate and prolonged GLP‐1 receptor agonist administration on uric acid and kidney clearance: Post‐hoc analyses of four clinical trials
Authors: Tonneijck Lennart , Muskiet Marcel H. A. , Smits Mark M. , Bjornstad Petter , Kramer Mark H. H. , Diamant Michaela , Hoorn Ewout J. , Joles Jaap A. , van Raalte Daniël H.
Published: January 2018

Aims

To determine the effects of glucagon‐like peptide (GLP)‐1 receptor agonists (RA) on uric acid (UA) levels and kidney UA clearance.

Material and methods

This study involved post‐hoc analyses of 4 controlled clinical trials, which assessed actions of GLP‐1RA administration on kidney physiology. The immediate effects of GLP‐1RA exenatide infusion vs placebo were determined in 9 healthy overweight men (Study‐A) and in 52 overweight T2DM patients (Study‐B). The effects of 12 weeks of long‐acting GLP‐1RA liraglutide vs placebo in 36 overweight T2DM patients (Study‐C) and of 8 weeks of short‐acting GLP‐1RA lixisenatide vs once‐daily titrated insulin glulisine in 35 overweight T2DM patients (Study‐D) were also examined. Plasma UA, fractional (inulin‐corrected) and absolute urinary excretion of UA (UEUA) and sodium (UENa), and urine pH were determined.

Results

Median baseline plasma UA level was 5.39 to 6.33 mg/dL across all studies (17%‐22% of subjects were hyperuricaemic). In Study‐A, exenatide infusion slightly increased plasma UA (+0.07 ± 0.02 mg/dL, P = .04), and raised absolute‐UEUA (+1.58 ± 0.65 mg/min/1.73 m2, P = .02), but did not affect fractional UEUA compared to placebo. Fractional UEUA and absolute UEUA correlated with increases in urine pH (r:0.86, P = .003 and r:0.92, P < .001, respectively). Fractional UEUA correlated with increased fractional UENa (r:0.76, P = .02). In Study‐B, exenatide infusion did not affect plasma UA, but increased fractional UEUA (+0.76 ± 0.38%, P = .049) and absolute UEUA (+0.75 ± 0.27 mg/min/1.73 m2, P = .007), compared to placebo. In regression analyses, both parameters were explained by changes in urine pH and, in part, by changes in UENa. In Study‐C, liraglutide treatment did not affect plasma UA, UEUA, UENa or urine pH, compared to placebo. In Study‐D, lixisenatide treatment increased UENa and urine pH from baseline, but did not affect plasma UA or UEUA.

Conclusion

Immediate exenatide infusion increases UEUA in overweight healthy men and in T2DM patients, probably by inhibiting Na+/H+‐exchanger type‐3 in the renal proximal tubule. Prolonged treatment with a long‐acting or short‐acting GLP‐1RA does not affect plasma UA or UEUA in T2DM patients with normal plasma UA levels and at relatively low cardiovascular risk. Our results suggest that the cardio‐renal benefits of GLP‐1RA are not mediated through changes in UA.
Prevalence of Rhodococcus equi from the nasal cavity of 1010 apparently healthy horses
Authors: Gressler L.T. , Machado G. , da Silveira B.P. , Cohen N.D. , Corbellini L.G. , Leotti V.B. , Diehl G.N. , dos Santos L.C. , de Vargas A.C.
Published: January 2018

Background

Rhodococcus equi is an important cause of foal pneumonia. While its isolation from different sources has been widely evaluated, there is a need to better understand the R. equi epidemiology from samples of the nasal cavity of healthy horses.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of R. equi from the nasal cavity of healthy horses, along with its virulence profile, antimicrobial susceptibility and environmental variables associated.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Swabs from the nasal cavity of 1010 apparently healthy horses from 341 farms were submitted for bacteriological analyses. The identity and virulence profile of the R. equi isolates were assessed by multiplex PCR; antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by the disk‐diffusion method. The occurrence of R. equi was calculated at the level of both animal and farm. The association of seven specific environmental factors with R. equi isolation was assessed using logistic regression and by a spatial scan statistical method to determine the presence of local clusters.

Results

Antimicrobial‐sensitive R. equi was isolated from 10 (1%) of 1010 horses ranging between 3 and 29 years old. Ten farms (3%) had at least one positive horse. Only one R. equi isolate (10%) was classified as virulent. Red‐Yellow Argisol (PVA/PV) soils were significantly associated with R. equi isolation (odds ratio (OR) 8.02; CI95%, 1.98–32.50, P = 0.01), and areas with well‐drained soil were less likely to be test positive (OR 0.85; CI95%, 0.76–0.96, P = 0.03).

Main limitations

The use of culture‐based method instead of PCR‐based assay and the lack of soil sampling.

Conclusions

Antimicrobial‐sensitive R. equi may be considered a minor part of the normal bacterial flora in the nasal cavity of healthy and immunologically functional horses breeding on pasture. Further studies are warranted to determine if soils rich in iron and well‐drained are, in fact, associated with the occurrence of R. equi.
Impact of multiple stressors on juvenile fish in estuaries of the northeast Pacific
Authors: Toft Jason D. , Munsch Stuart H. , Cordell Jeffery R. , Siitari Kiira , Hare Van C. , Holycross Brett M. , DeBruyckere Lisa A. , Greene Correigh M. , Hughes Brent B.
Published: January 2018

A key step in identifying global change impacts on species and ecosystems is to quantify effects of multiple stressors. To date, the science of global change has been dominated by regional field studies, experimental manipulation, meta‐analyses, conceptual models, reviews, and studies focusing on a single stressor or species over broad spatial and temporal scales. Here, we provide one of the first studies for coastal systems examining multiple stressor effects across broad scales, focused on the nursery function of 20 estuaries spanning 1,600 km of coastline, 25 years of monitoring, and seven fish and invertebrate species along the northeast Pacific coast. We hypothesized those species most estuarine dependent and negatively impacted by human activities would have lower presence and abundances in estuaries with greater anthropogenic land cover, pollution, and water flow stress. We found significant negative relationships between juveniles of two of seven species (Chinook salmon and English sole) and estuarine stressors. Chinook salmon were less likely to occur and were less abundant in estuaries with greater pollution stress. They were also less abundant in estuaries with greater flow stress, although this relationship was marginally insignificant. English sole were less abundant in estuaries with greater land cover stress. Together, we provide new empirical evidence that effects of stressors on two fish species culminate in detectable trends along the northeast Pacific coast, elevating the need for protection from pollution, land cover, and flow stressors to their habitats. Lack of response among the other five species could be related to differing resistance to specific stressors, type and precision of the stressor metrics, and limitations in catch data across estuaries and habitats. Acquiring improved measurements of impacts to species will guide future management actions, and help predict how estuarine nursery functions can be optimized given anthropogenic stressors and climate change scenarios.
Employing the arts for knowledge production and translation: Visualizing new possibilities for women speaking up about safety concerns in maternity
Authors: Mackintosh Nicola , Sandall Jane , Collison Claire , Carter Wendy , Harris James
Published: January 2018

Objectives

This project used animated film to translate research findings into accessible health information aimed at enabling women to speak up and secure professional help for serious safety concerns during pregnancy and after birth. We tested as proof of concept our use of the arts both as product (knowledge production) and process (enabling involvement).

Background

Emergencies during pregnancy and birth, while unusual, can develop rapidly and unexpectedly, with catastrophic consequences. Women's tacit knowledge of changes in their condition is an important resource to aid early detection, but women can worry about the legitimacy of their concerns and struggle to get these taken seriously by staff.

Design

Arts‐based knowledge translation. A user group of women who had experienced complications in the perinatal period (n = 34) helped us develop and pilot test the animation. Obstetricians and midwives (15), clinical leads (3) and user group representatives (8) helped with the design and testing.

Findings

The consultation process, script and storyboard enabled active interaction with the evidence, meaningful engagement with stakeholders and new understandings about securing help for perinatal complications. The method enabled us to address gender stereotypes and social norms about speaking up and embed a social script for women within the animation, to help structure their help seeking. While for some women, there was an emotional burden, the majority were glad to have been part of the animation's development and felt it had enabled their voices to be heard.

Conclusion

This project has demonstrated the benefits of arts‐science collaborations for meaningful co‐production and effective translation of research evidence.
Stronger glass products: Lessons learned and yet to be learned
Authors: Varshneya Arun K.
Published: January 2018

Potential for obtaining stronger glass products is discussed. Flaws, mostly forming‐ and handling‐generated and accelerated crack growth due to surrounding environment appear to give a strength distribution which is usually a factor of 500‐1000 less than the estimated theoretical strength. Contrary to traditional teachings emphasizing glass strength to be an extrinsic behavior, it is suggested that the atomic network topology determines the shear and hydrostatic yield strengths which are a precursor to the nucleation and growth of network cavitation, in turn, leading to generation of flaws and stress‐assisted growth starting from glass product‐forming processes. Hence, for stronger glass products, research is needed to develop fundamental understanding of the interrelationship between network topology, yield strengths, flaw cavitation and growth in molten glass as well as in solid glass as a function of glass composition and the complex stress fields around indents and impacts.
Effects of conflicting scientific arguments on belief change: Argument evaluation and expert consensus perception as mediators
Authors: Kobayashi Keiichi
Published: January 2018

In our society, people are often exposed to conflicting information about a scientific issue. However, our knowledge about the effects of exposure to conflicting scientific information is still highly limited. By combining paradigms of research on belief polarization and science communication, two experiments examined whether and how exposure to conflicting scientific arguments influences scientific belief change and behavioral intentions. Participants (Experiment 1, N = 102; Experiment 2, N = 115) received two conflicting arguments (favorable and unfavorable to the effects of vitamin C supplementation on the prevention and treatment of the common cold) or two nonconflicting arguments (unfavorable to and neutral on the vitamin C supplementation effects). Exposure to conflicting arguments changed participants' beliefs about the preventing and treating effects of vitamin C supplementation less than exposure to nonconflicting arguments but did not cause actual belief polarization. Compared with participants who received nonconflicting arguments, those who received conflicting arguments perceived the quality of unfavorable argument to be low and experts' opinions about the issues to be divided, resulting in modest belief change. Exposure to conflicting arguments also promoted the formation of moderate behavioral intentions to take a regular high dose of vitamin C as a result of the belief change.
CHILD syndrome mimicking verrucous nevus in a Chinese patient responded well to the topical therapy of compound of simvastatin and cholesterol
Authors: Yu X. , Zhang J. , Gu Y. , Deng D. , Wu Z. , Bao L. , Li M. , Yao Z.
Published: January 2018

Background

Congenital hemidysplasia with ichthyosiform erythroderma and limb defects (CHILD) syndrome is a rare X‐linked dominant disorder characterized by peculiar cutaneous presentations and ipsilateral skeletal abnormalities. CHILD syndrome is caused by mutations in NSDHL gene, which involves in cholesterol synthesis.

Objectives

To verify the diagnosis of CHILD syndrome and seek effective pathogenesis‐based therapy with little side‐effects.

Method

We comprehensively evaluated the patient's conditions. Pathological biopsy was performed in the lesion location. Genetic tests and real‐time quantitative PCR were conducted to further confirm the diagnosis. The topical application of a mixed lotion containing 2% simvastatin and 2% cholesterol to lesion areas based on the pathogenesis as well as the literature review.

Results

We diagnosed a rare and typical case of CHILD syndrome co‐occurring with multiple VX‐like lesions. The gene mutation is a large deletion of exon 3 and 4 of the NSDHL gene, which was discovered and reported for the first time in CHILD syndrome. The skin lesions, including the verruciform plaques and VX‐like lesions, improved obviously after treatment.

Conclusions

Multiple exons deletions or microdeletion was not rare in CHILD syndrome. Classical Sanger sequencing may not be useful enough to find all kinds of mutations. Next‐generation sequencing may be more effective. It is important to conduct genetic counselling to prevent more serious defects in descendants. The excellent therapeutic effect on CHILD syndrome resulted from the topical treatment with simvastatin/cholesterol provides a proof‐of‐concept for other topical pathogenesis‐based therapies for skin disease.
Effect of staining beverages on color and translucency of CAD/CAM composites
Authors: Quek S. H. Q. , Yap A. U. J. , Rosa V. , Tan K. B. C. , Teoh K. H.
Published: January 2018

This study investigated the color (ΔE) and translucency changes (ΔTP) of CAD/CAM composites after exposure to staining solutions using both spectrophotometer and shade‐matching device. Direct (Filtek Z350XT [ZT]), indirect (Shofu Ceramage [CE]) and CAD/CAM (Shofu HC Block [HC], Lava Ultimate [LU], Vita Enamic [EN]) composite specimens measuring 12 × 14 × 1.5 mm were fabricated, divided into five groups (n = 8), and immersed in cola, tea, coffee, red wine, distilled water (control) at 37°C for 7 days. Color parameters were determined with both spectrophotometer and shade‐taking device at baseline and 1 week. Delta E (ΔE) with white and black backgrounds, and Delta TP (ΔTP) were computed. Statistical testing was performed with ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test (P < .05). Mean ΔE (white) values ranged from 0.20 ± 0.06 to 12.26 ± 1.95 while mean ΔE (black) varied from 0.22 ± 0.11 to 14.21 ± 2.37. Mean ΔTP values ranged from 0.13 ± 0.17 to −3.87 ± 2.16. CAD/CAM composites fared better in red wine than direct and indirect materials. Clinically perceptible color changes (ΔE > 3.3) were observed for almost all materials when exposed to wine, coffee and tea. Direct, indirect, and CAD/CAM composites are all susceptible to various degrees of discoloration and translucency changes after exposure to staining beverages. Red wine caused the most discoloration and translucency changes. Limitations of these materials must be considered when placing an aesthetic restoration.

Clinical significance

Direct, indirect, and CAD/CAM composites are all susceptible to various degrees of discoloration and translucency changes after exposure to staining beverages. Red wine generally caused the most discoloration and translucency changes. Although CAD/CAM composites were more color stable than direct and indirect materials when exposed to red wine, color changes were still clinically perceptible.
Personality Changes During the Transition from Cognitive Health to Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Caselli Richard J. , Langlais Blake T. , Dueck Amylou C. , Henslin Bruce R. , Johnson Travis A. , Woodruff Bryan K. , Hoffman‐Snyder Charlene , Locke Dona E. C.
Published: January 2018

Background/Objectives

Behavioral problems in individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) impose major management challenges. Current prevention strategies are anchored to cognitive outcomes, but behavioral outcomes may provide another, clinically relevant opportunity for preemptive therapy. We sought to determine whether personality changes that predispose to behavioral disorders arise during the transition from preclinical AD to mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Design

Longitudinal observational cohort study.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Participants

Members of an apolipoprotein E (APOE) ɛ4 genetically enriched cohort of Maricopa County residents who were neuropsychiatrically healthy at entry (N = 277). Over a mean interval of 7 years, 25 who developed MCI and had the Neuroticism, Extraversion, and Openness Personality Inventory—Revised (NEO‐PI‐R) before and during the MCI transition epoch were compared with 252 nontransitioners also with serial NEO‐PI‐R administrations.

Intervention

Longitudinal administration of the NEO‐PI‐R and neuropsychological test battery.

Measurements

Change in NEO‐PI‐R factor scores (neuroticism, extraversion, openness, agreeableness, conscientiousness) from entry to the epoch of MCI diagnosis or an equivalent follow‐up duration in nontransitioners.

Results

NEO‐PI‐R neuroticism T‐scores increased significantly more in MCI transitioners than in nontransitioners (mean 2.9, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.9–4.9 vs 0, 95% CI = −0.7–0.7, P = .02), and openness decreased more in MCI transitioners than in nontransitioners (−4.8, 95% CI = −7.3 to −2.4 vs −1.0, 95% CI = −1.6 to −0.4, P < .001). Concurrent subclinical but statistically significant changes in behavioral scores worsened more in MCI transitioners than nontransitioners for measures of depression, somatization, irritability, anxiety, and aggressive attitude.

Conclusion

Personality and subclinical behavioral changes begin during the transition from preclinical AD to incident MCI and qualitatively resemble the clinically manifest behavioral disorders that subsequently arise in individuals with frank dementia.
Can Addressing Personality Change Enhance Cognitive Functioning and Delay Development of Mild Cognitive Impairment?
Authors: Manning Kevin J. , Steffens David C.
Published: January 2018

This editorial comments on the article by Caselli et al.
A novel mutation of LRSAM1 in a Chinese family with Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease
Authors: Zhao Guohua , Song Jie , Yang Mi , Song Xiuhua , Liu Xiaomin
Published: January 2018

Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth (CMT) disease is the most common inherited peripheral neuropathy characterized by progressive distal muscle weakness and atrophy with decreased or absent tendon reflexes. Mutations in LRSAM1 have been identified to cause CMT disease type 2P. We report a novel LRSAM1 mutation c.2021‐2024del (p.E674VfsX11) in a Chinese autosomal dominant CMT disease type 2 family. The phenotype was characterized by late onset and mild sensory impairment. Electrophysiological findings showed normal or mildly to moderately reduced motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities in lower and upper limb nerves.
Do longer root hairs improve phosphorus uptake? Testing the hypothesis with transgenic Brachypodium distachyon lines overexpressing endogenous RSL genes
Authors: Zhang Chunyan , Simpson Richard J. , Kim Chul Min , Warthmann Norman , Delhaize Emmanuel , Dolan Liam , Byrne Mary E. , Wu Yu , Ryan Peter R.
Published: January 2018

Mutants without root hairs show reduced inorganic orthophosphate (Pi) uptake and compromised growth on soils when Pi availability is restricted. What is less clear is whether root hairs that are longer than wild‐type provide an additional benefit to phosphorus (P) nutrition. This was tested using transgenic Brachypodium lines with longer root hairs. The lines were transformed with the endogenous BdRSL2 and BdRSL3 genes using either a constitutive promoter or a root hair‐specific promoter.

Plants were grown for 32 d in soil amended with various Pi concentrations. Plant biomass and P uptake were measured and genotypes were compared on the basis of critical Pi values and P uptake per unit root length.

Ectopic expression of RSL2 and RSL3 increased root hair length three‐fold but decreased plant biomass. Constitutive expression of BdRSL2, but not expression of BdRSL3, consistently improved P nutrition as measured by lowering the critical Pi values and increasing Pi uptake per unit root length.

Increasing root hair length through breeding or biotechnology can improve P uptake efficiency if the pleotropic effects on plant biomass are avoided. Long root hairs, alone, appear to be insufficient to improve Pi uptake and need to be combined with other traits to benefit P nutrition.
Is it possible to contaminate the temporomandibular joint by arthrocentesis?
Authors: Olsen‐Bergem H. , Kristoffersen A.K. , Bjørnland T. , Aas J.A.
Published: January 2018

Introduction

Bacterial contamination of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) by needle penetration of the skin has previously been discussed as a contributing factor in joint arthritis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the presence of bacterial deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in synovial fluid, and to detect any possible iatrogenic contamination during arthrocentesis of the TMJ in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Method

Synovial fluid (SF) and skin swab samples (before and after disinfection) were collected from 54 TMJs in 30 patients with TMJ arthritis. Bacterial detection and classification was performed using 16S rRNA pyrosequencing.

Results

Bacterial DNA was detected in 31 joints (57%) in 19 patients (63%). In six 12 joints (20%) in six patients specific bacterial species were detected in both skin samples and in the TMJ, indicating a possible contamination. 22 different bacterial species were detected in synovial fluid from these six patients.

Conclusion

Bacterial DNA in TMJ SF with contamination was detected in 20% of the patients. Studies are needed to evaluate the consequences of potential contamination with bacterial DNA in SF with regard to arthrocentesis and treatment of TMJ arthritis.
Sensing performance, safety, and patient acceptability of long‐dipole cardiac monitor: An innovative axillary insertion
Authors: Bisignani Giovanni , De Bonis Silvana , Bisignani Antonio , Mancuso Luigi , Giacopelli Daniele
Published: January 2018

Background

The recommended location for implantable cardiac monitor (ICM) insertion is the left pectoral region. We tested whether an innovative left axillary implantation approach could be applicable for a new ICM, characterized by a long sensing dipole.

Methods

We considered a series of 55 patients consecutively implanted with a long‐dipole ICM (BioMonitor 2); the first 30 subjects underwent prepectoral location insertion, while the subsequent 25 received the ICM in the axillary region. Sensing performances collected at 1‐month follow‐up were compared between the two groups. During the visit, each patient was also asked to fill in a brief questionnaire to assess patient acceptability of the device.

Results

All patients had a successful insertion of ICM. Mean R‐wave amplitude was 0.87 ± 0.44 mV in the prepectoral group and 1.00 ± 0.45 mV in the axillary one, without any significant difference. The percentage of patients with visible P wave was also comparable between the two approaches (65.5% vs 68.2%, P = 0.84). None of the patients reported device‐related issues or discomfort, and ICM was generally well accepted and tolerated by all the involved patients.

Conclusion

Axillary insertion may represent a valid alternative to the standard one for long‐dipole ICM technology providing not only patient acceptability but also high‐quality sensing performances.
Erector spinae plane block for inguinal hernia repair in preterm infants
Authors: Hernandez Maria A. , Palazzi Lucio , Lapalma Julio , Cravero Joseph
Published: January 2018

Neuro‐axial anesthesia has been the preferred technique for inguinal hernia repair when attempting to avoid general anesthesia in neonates and preterm infants. We present a case where an erector spinae plane block was used successfully for this surgery. Hemodynamic stability, minimal anesthetic requirements, and excellent pain control were documented. This block promises to be a valuable and safe alternative for inguinal hernia repair, accompanying the path of neuroprotective anesthesia.
Utility of ultrasonography in hair‐thread tourniquet syndrome
Authors: Sebaratnam Deshan F. , Hernández‐Martín Ángela
Published: January 2018

A 2‐year‐old girl presented with a 2‐month history of an erythematous, indurated plaque with well‐defined borders on the third toe of the right foot. Bedside high‐resolution ultrasonography demonstrated a thickened epidermis overlying a hyperechoic focus within the dermis. Her clinical and sonographic presentation was in keeping with a foreign body causing hair‐thread tourniquet syndrome. The foreign body was surgically extirpated without neurovascular sequelae. Ultrasonography expedited accurate diagnosis and is a promising adjunct to clinical evaluation for radiolucent foreign bodies.
Recurrent terbinafine resistant Trichophyton rubrum infection in a child with congenital ichthyosis
Authors: Schøsler Louise , Andersen Louise Kronborg , Arendrup Maiken Cavling , Sommerlund Mette
Published: January 2018

Dermatophytosis in children caused by Trichophyton rubrum is preferably treated with topical or systemic terbinafine. We report the first case of terbinafine resistance in a child with recurrent T. rubrum dermatophytosis and congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma.