bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multispecies coalescent analysis confirms standing phylogenetic instability in Hexapoda
Authors: Freitas Lucas , Mello Beatriz , Schrago Carlos G.
Published: July 2018

The multispecies coalescent (MSC) has been increasingly used in phylogenomic analyses due to the accommodation of gene tree topological heterogeneity by taking into account population‐level processes, such as incomplete lineage sorting. In this sense, the phylogeny of insect species, which are characterized by their large effective population sizes, is suitable for a coalescent‐based analysis. Furthermore, studies so far recovered short internal branches at early divergences of the insect tree of life, indicating fast evolutionary radiations that increase the probability of incomplete lineage sorting in deep time. Here, we investigated the performance of the MSC for a phylogenomic data set of hexapods compiled by Misof et al. (2014, Science 346:763). Our analysis recovered the monophyly of most insect orders, and major phylogenetic relationships were in agreement with current insect systematics. We identified, however, some evolutionary associations that were consistently problematic. Most noticeable, Hexapod monophyly was disrupted by the sister group relationship between the remiped crustacean and Insecta. Additionally, the interordinal relationships within Polyneoptera and Neuropteroidea were found to be phylogenetically unstable. We show that these controversial phylogenetic arrangements were also poorly supported by previous analyses, and therefore, we evaluated their robustness to stochastic errors from sampling sites and terminals, confirming standing problems in hexapod phylogeny in the genomics age.
Geographic range expansion of Ephippion guttifer (Tetraodontidae) in the north‐eastern Atlantic
Authors: Bañón Rafael , Alonso‐Fernández Alexandre , Barros‐García David , Rios María‐Berta , de Carlos Alejandro
Published: July 2018

The first record of the prickly puffer Ephippion guttifer (Tetraodontidae) from Galician waters (north‐west Spain) is reported based on a male specimen of 570 mm total length (LT) caught in the Ría de Vigo. Morphometric, meristic and DNA barcode data confirmed the identification. Histological examination of reproductive tissue was carried out in this species for the first time, showing a mature male in an actively spawning phase. A historical revision invalidates a previous record and establishes this as the northernmost confirmed capture ever reported in the north‐eastern Atlantic Ocean.
Effect of combined high voltage electrostatic with air blast freezing on quality attributes of lamb meat
Authors: Dalvi‐Isfahan Mohsen , Hamdami Nasser , Le‐Bail Alain
Published: July 2018

The aim of this research was to compare the effects of electrostatic freezing (ESF) and air blast freezing on quality characteristics of meat after thawing. The effects of four voltages and three freezing temperatures on the quality of fresh lamb such as drip loss after thawing, color, texture, and microstructure were investigated. The results showed that with increasing voltage or decreasing freezing temperature, a slight decrease in the drip loss value and increase in the hardness value could be seen. However, only varying the voltage variable had a significant effect on equivalent diameter, hardness, and drip loss. Total color difference was not significantly influenced by both independent variables. Histological examination of the meat samples demonstrated that the improving the quality of the meat samples under ESF may be due to the ice crystal size reduction which resulted in limited freezing damage on the microstructure of meat.

Practical application

Electrostatic freezing (ESF) as one of the novel methods of freezing can reduce the freezing damage in meat products by decreasing ice crystal size. Additional benefits for the food industry are that ESF can be applied uniformly over the whole sample, easily integrated with ordinary freezer, and energy consumption is low.
Effect of normal and modified atmosphere packaging on shelf life of roast chicken meat
Authors: Guo Yuchen , Huang Jichao , Sun Xiaobin , Lu Qing , Huang Ming , Zhou Guanghong
Published: July 2018

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of packaging method on physicochemical and microbiological properties of roast chicken meat. The samples were stored under normal atmosphere (A) and four different proportions of CO2 and N2 modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) conditions: N (N2, 100%), M2 (CO2/N2, 20%/80%), M3 (CO2/N2, 30%/70%), and M4 (CO2/N2, 40%/60%). Microbiological quality, pH, headspace gas composition, color, and lipid oxidation of roast chicken meat were measured. The time to reach the acceptable total viable counts (TVC, 4 log cfu/g) was 8, 16, 18, 21, and 22 days in A, N, M2, M3, and M4 samples, respectively. The thiobarbituric acid values under MAP packaging were lower than those in normal packaging. In addition, the growth rate of TVC, molds, and yeasts in roast chicken was slower with the increase of carbon dioxide content in MAP. The present findings demonstrate that packaging with CO2/N2, 40%/60% could extend the longer shelf life of roast chicken at 4°C.

Practical applications

The results showed that CO2/N2 modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) could effectively extend the shelf life of roast chicken products. The effects of different gas compositions in MAP on the pH, color, and fat oxidation of roasted chicken were not significant. The results of this study have guided significance for the storage and consumption of products in the roast poultry processing industry, and provide the references for the storage of other barbecue products.
Tissue changes over time after polydioxanone thread insertion: An animal study with pigs
Authors: Yoon Jung Hyun , Kim Sang Seop , Oh Seung Min , Kim Bong Cheol , Jung Wonsug
Published: July 2018

Background

Polydioxanone (PDO) sutures have been widely used to tighten and lift the face. However, why the complexion brightens and skin elasticity is maintained with a smaller facial outline after a PDO monofilament thread treatment remains unclear.

Aims

We aimed to determine what significant changes occur in the tissue over time when a PDO suture is inserted.

Methods

We selected four White Yucatan variety pygmy pigs with skin that most closely resembles the structure of human skin. 4‐0 PDO thread was inserted into the subcutaneous fat. Tissue samples were obtained at 4, 12, 24, and 48 weeks. For the histologic analysis, H&E staining, Masson trichrome staining, and anti‐smooth muscle actin immunohistochemical staining techniques were used.

Results

Nine histological findings appeared over time, and these findings are summarized as five tissue changes.

Conclusions

PDO sutures cause specific changes to the surrounding tissues that result in neo‐collagenesis, a fibrous merging effect, fat reduction, tissue contracture, and an improved vascular environment. The results of this study explain the positive changes described in previous clinical research.
Topography of the dorsal nasal artery and its clinical implications for augmentation of the dorsum of the nose
Authors: Choi Da‐Yae , Bae Jung‐Hee , Youn Kwan‐Hyun , Kim Wooram , Suwanchinda Atchima , Tanvaa Tansatit , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: July 2018

Background

Injections of filler into the nose for dorsum augmentation have a higher risk of complications due to the complicated blood supply and anastomotic channels in this area.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the anatomical features and location of the dorsal nasal artery (DNA), and to provide clinical anatomical information to reduce side effects and severe complications in the perinasal area.

Methods

Using the 31 cadaveric noses in Asians, dissections and histologic examinations were performed to identify the location and depth of the vascular structures including DNA.

Results

Dorsal nasal artery ran downward at 20.3 ± 3.5 mm from the intercanthal line and the communicating branch that connected the bilateral DNAs was located 8.5 ± 3.5 mm inferior to the intercanthal line. The DNA was located at 4.4 ± 3.2 mm, 4.6 ± 4.4 mm, and 5.2 ± 4.4 mm lateral to the midline of the nose on the intercanthal, quadrisected, and bisected lines, respectively. At the level of nasal bone, DNA was located superficial to the muscular layer and it runs inferolaterally on dorsum on nose. It was running more deeply and located beneath the fibromuscular layer at the cartilaginous portion of the dorsum of nose.

Conclusions

Injection into deep fatty layer may reduce the risk of arterial injury and the consequent complications. However, in a hooked nose, the tip of the needle traveling along the deep layer approaches the superficial layer due to the convexity of the hump as it passes over it, which can increase the probability of damaging the DNA.
Prevention of surgical site infection via antibiotic administration according to guidelines after gynecological surgery
Authors: Toba Mikayo , Moriwaki Mutsuko , Oshima Noriko , Aiso Yoshibumi , Shima Mari , Nukui Yoko , Obayashi Satoshi , Fushimi Kiyohide
Published: July 2018

Aim

We modified the antimicrobial prophylaxis of surgical site infection (SSI) according to the guidelines of the Japanese Society of Chemotherapy and Japan Society of Infectious Diseases (hereinafter referred to as optimization) and measured outcomes.

Methods

From April 2016 to March 2017, we performed cesarean section and open hysterectomy with optimization, and compared the outcome to that of surgery performed without optimization between April 2014 and March 2016. We measured the rates of antibiotic discontinuation, appropriate antibiotic selection, SSI incidence, resumption of antibiotic therapy and fever incidence, as well as the length of postoperative hospital stay and medical expenses for antibiotics to evaluate the appropriateness and outcomes of antibiotic prophylaxis.

Results

Optimization resulted in a change in the method of selecting antibiotics for cesarean section, but there was no change in SSI incidence rate (0.74% vs 0.0%, P = 0.36). Optimization reduced the use of antibiotics and medical expenses of hysterectomy (median reduction of 50% and 78% for hysterectomy without or with lymphadenectomy, respectively). However, there was no change in outcome regarding SSI incidence (5.7% vs 0.0%, P = 0.11 and 7.8% vs 9.5%, P = 0.77, respectively).

Conclusion

Appropriate use of antibiotics according to guidelines reduced antibiotic dose and medical expenses, but there was no change in outcome regarding SSI incidence rate. These findings suggested that implementation of dosing regimens according to the guidelines would be useful to reduce antibiotic medicine costs and prevent resistant bacteria and complications associated with antibiotics.
Distribution of monocyte subsets and polarization in preeclampsia and intrauterine fetal growth restriction
Authors: Alahakoon Thushari I. , Medbury Heather , Williams Helen , Fewings Nicole , Wang Xin M. , Lee Vincent W.
Published: July 2018

Aim

Monocytes are likely to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE) and intrauterine fetal growth restriction (IUGR), given their role in homeostasis and tissue repair. Our aim was to study the gestational changes in monocytes in normal pregnancy and to determine whether monocyte subsets and phenotype are altered in pregnancy complications, such as PE and IUGR.

Methods

A prospective cross‐sectional case–control study was conducted. Pregnant women between 24 and 40 weeks of gestation (n = 54) were recruited and classified into four clinical groups of normal pregnancy, PE, IUGR and PE + IUGR. The maternal monocyte subsets classical, intermediate and nonclassical were compared for each clinical group. Monocyte polarization towards M1 (inflammatory) and M2 (repair) phenotypes was assessed by surface expression of CD86 and CD163 ratio, using flow cytometry.

Results

The classical monocytes were reduced and intermediate monocyte elevated compared to normal pregnancy in PE, IUGR and PE + IUGR in gestations <37 weeks and IUGR in 26–40 weeks. CD163 expression was increased and CD86/CD163 ratio decreased in IUGR compared to normal pregnancy for all subsets. Nonclassical monocyte counts and CD163 expression increased with advancing gestation in normal pregnancy.

Conclusion

These results show for the first time, a shift towards increased intermediate maternal monocyte subtype in IUGR and in preterm PE as well as skewing of maternal peripheral monocytes (all subsets) towards M2 phenotype in pregnancies complicated by IUGR.
Consumers' hedonic liking of different labeled and conventional food products in Slovenia
Authors: Kos Skubic Mira , Erjavec Karmen , Ule Anita , Klopčič Marija
Published: July 2018

In recent years, like others in Europe, the Slovenian government has introduced national and European quality schemes and launched a campaign to inform consumers and boost demand for local products. Very few studies consider consumers' hedonic liking of different food products labeled with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)/Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) indications. This study therefore aims to fill this research gap and identify whether information affects the hedonic liking of various typical Slovenian PDO/PGI‐labeled products compared to their alternative conventional food products, whether Slovenian consumers like different typical Slovenian PDO/PGI‐labeled food products relative to their conventional food products, and which food products they sensorically prefer. The study findings show consumer hedonic liking is identical for all PDO/PGI‐labeled regional products, yet their sensory preferences reveal some significant differences between the analyzed products by age, gender, and education. Accordingly, studies should employ different sensory analyses for different food products and not generalized consumer hedonic liking/preference based on just one food product.

Practical applications

The finding that consumers do not hold hedonic preferences for either PDO/PGI‐labeled or conventional products when both informed and blind has significant implications for the Slovenian government, the marketers of labeled products and consumer policy aiming to promote better labeled products. For transition countries like Slovenia that have recently introduced food products labeling meeting EU standard but have a relatively small food industry based on local ingredients, traditional recipes, and production methods, our findings reveal the need to extend and intensify promotion and communication activities that highlight the guaranteed quality and use of local ingredients to boost consumers' preferences for PDO/PGI‐labeled products like cheese, ham, and honey.
Oral deferiprone administration ameliorates cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats
Authors: Makhdoumi Pouran , Abnous Khalil , Mehri Soghra , Etemad Leila , Imenshahidi Mohsen , Karimi Gholamreza
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Cisplatin is one of the widely used antitumour agents with major clinical side effect, nephrotoxicity. We showed the role of iron in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity that entrance to the cell via transferrin receptor (TfR) as a gatekeeper for iron uptake. We also examined the effect of iron chelator deferiprone against this toxicity.

Methods

Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups. Group I (saline orally for 10 days); group II (saline orally for 10 days plus single injection of cisplatin 7 mg/kg, intraperitoneally on 5th day); groups III, IV and V (deferiprone 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg orally for 10 days, respectively, plus cisplatin on 5th day). Group VI (deferiprone, orally).

Results

Deferiprone provided functional and significant histological-proven protection in group IV. Deferiprone attenuated the increased creatinine, BUN, malondialdehyde and iron concentrations in cisplatin-injected animals. The increased amounts of TfR and decreased levels of HIF-1α and related anti-apoptotic genes expression in cisplatin-treated animals were improved by deferiprone.

Conclusions

The results supported a role for iron in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity and TfR may serve as an important source of iron. Based on these findings, deferiprone pretreatment may play a role in preventing cisplatin-induced nephropathy in cancer patient.
Jumps into Democracy: Integrating the Short and Long Run in the Democratic Transition
Authors: Paldam Martin , Gundlach Erich
Published: July 2018

When countries become wealthy, they become democracies. Using kernel regressions, we show that the long‐run path in the Polity index looks exactly like a transition curve. However, the literature lacks a short‐run model that can generate this path. We note that the main political regime index is constant for most years. However, the stability is interrupted by infrequent jumps that are often quite large. We argue that periods of constancy represent political status quo equilibria that need to be broken by a triggering event. We find that such events occur randomly; they cannot be explained by economic variables. But if an event causes a change in the regime, the jump is normally in the direction of the transition curve. Hence, the curve acts as an attractor for the jumps. This is a new finding that integrates the short and the long run of the Democratic Transition.
Individual Differences in Syntactic Ability and Construction Learning: An Exploration of the Relationship
Authors: Riches Nick , Jackson Laura
Published: July 2018

Syntactic abilities vary across individuals. Weak syntax is typically ascribed to limited competence (knowledge) or poor performance (processing). However, with many questioning this dichotomy, alternative explanations should be considered. Arguments related to language exposure are insufficient because language‐impaired children often have good input. An alternative account, the learning hypothesis, assumes that individual variation in syntactic abilities reflects variation in construction‐learning ability. To evaluate this claim, we tested construction learning in 49 5‐year‐old English‐speaking children, targeting two complex constructions rarely attested in child‐directed speech, though with no control of prior exposure. The results revealed that there was substantial variation in the children's construction‐learning ability, which was strongly associated with their performance on static standardized language assessments (the Test of Reception of Grammar and the Renfrew Action Picture Task) and that nonadjacent open slots were problematic. While our findings supported the learning hypothesis, further research should determine causes of individual variation in syntactic ability.

Open Practices

This article has been awarded an Open Materials badge. Study materials are publicly accessible via the Open Science Framework at https://osf.io/ztrnq. Learn more about the Open Practices badges from the Center for Open Science: https://osf.io/tvyxz/wiki.
Low‐grade neuroepithelial tumor: Unusual presentation in an adult without history of seizures
Authors: Riva Giulio , Cima Luca , Villanova Manuela , Ghimenton Claudio , Sina Sokol , Riccioni Luca , Munari Giada , Fassan Matteo , Giangaspero Felice , Eccher Albino
Published: July 2018

Low‐grade neuroepithelial tumors (LGNT) show a broad histopathological spectrum and may be difficult to classify using current World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. A 57‐year‐old man came to medical attention because of headaches. The patient medical history was otherwise unremarkable. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a 2.5 cm lesion, partially cystic, with an increased signal on T2‐weighted imaging, located in the right frontal lobe. The patient underwent right frontal craniotomy and the surgical specimen was entirely evaluated. Microscopic examination showed a tumor arranged predominantly in sheets and nests, with an infiltrative growth pattern and oligodendroglioma‐like appearance. Tumor cells were round to oval with cytoplasmic clearing, hyperchromatic nuclei and inconspicuous nucleoli. Only one mitosis was identified. Necrosis was absent. Differential diagnostic considerations included oligodendroglioma, clear cell ependymoma, polymorphous low‐grade neuroepithelial tumor of the young (PLNTY) and long‐term epilepsy‐associated tumor with clear cell morphology. Neoplastic cells showed positivity for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), oligodendrocyte transcription factor 2 (OLIG2), α‐thalasemia X‐linked mental retardation syndrome (ATRX) (retained nuclear expression) and CD34. Epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), neuronal nuclear antigen, microtubule‐associated protein‐2e, cyclo‐oxygenase‐2, chromogranin A and isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) (R132H) were negative. Ki‐67 labeling index was 2–3%. Molecular analysis identified neither IDH1/IDH2 mutations nor 1p19q codeletion. Rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma homolog B1 (BRAF) V600E mutation was also absent by both molecular and immunohistochemical testing. Polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed the presence of fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3)‐transforming acidic coiled‐coil (TACC) fusion. Taken together, the morphological, immunohistochemical and molecular findings supported the final diagnosis of PLNTY.
Recovery of food webs following natural physical disturbances
Authors: Spiller David A. , Schoener Thomas W. , Piovia‐Scott Jonah
Published: July 2018

The objective of our paper is to develop a mechanistic conceptual framework for how food webs recover from natural physical disturbances. We summarize our work on the effect of hurricanes on island food webs and review other studies documenting how other types of physical disturbances (including fires, floods, and volcanic eruptions) alter food–web interactions. Based on these case studies, we propose that four factors play an important role in food‐web succession: (1) disturbance intensity, (2) sequential recovery/colonization of successively higher trophic levels, (3) tradeoffs between growth rate of organisms at different successional stages and susceptibility to consumers, and (4) detritus including autochthonous and allochthonous sources. Studies on river flooding and islands disturbed by hurricanes indicate that energy flow is higher and trophic cascades are stronger during recovery than when the food web is at a steady state. We suggest that as consumer species colonize during succession, they may change the species or phenotypic composition of their food supply from highly vulnerable to less vulnerable items, thereby weakening both bottom‐up and top‐down effects throughout the food web. High inputs of detritus caused by disturbances can amplify bottom‐up effects during early succession, and subsequently alter top‐down effects.
Effects of intentional weight loss in patients with obesity and heart failure: a systematic review
Authors: McDowell K. , Petrie M.C. , Raihan N. A. , Logue J.
Published: July 2018

Objective

Obesity is an independent risk factor for the development of heart failure, and the two commonly co‐exist. The European Society of Cardiology does not provide guidance regarding weight loss strategies in heart failure. The aim of this study was to systematically review the evidence for outcomes following intentional weight loss in patients with heart failure and obesity.

Method

A systematic review of English articles was undertaken using databases PubMed, Embase and CENTRAL. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies reporting outcomes following intentional weight loss by lifestyle, surgical or pharmacotherapy intervention in patients with obesity and heart failure were included.

Results

Four randomized controlled trials and seven observational studies were identified. Two randomized controlled trials used diet and exercise as an intervention, one used diet alone and one used a pharmacological intervention (orlistat). All but one reported significant weight loss. Two reported improvement in exercise capacity and quality of life. One reported improvement in New York Heart Association functional class in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. The observational studies, five of which reported on outcomes following bariatric surgery, despite being small, heterogeneous and high risk of bias, suggested a trend in improvement of left ventricular function, quality of life and exercise capacity following weight loss.

Conclusion

Weight loss is achievable with lifestyle intervention in those with heart failure and obesity and may result in improvements in New York Heart Association classification, quality of life and exercise capacity.
Brassica rapa hairy root based expression system leads to the production of highly homogenous and reproducible profiles of recombinant human alpha‐L‐iduronidase
Authors: Cardon Florian , Pallisse Roser , Bardor Muriel , Caron Aurore , Vanier Jessica , Ele Ekouna Jean Pierre , Lerouge Patrice , Boitel‐Conti Michèle , Guillet Marina
Published: July 2018

The Brassica rapa hairy root based expression platform, a turnip hairy root based expression system, is able to produce human complex glycoproteins such as the alpha—L—iduronidase (IDUA) with an activity similar to the one produced by Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells. In this article, a particular attention has been paid to the N‐ and O‐glycosylation that characterize the alpha‐L‐iduronidase produced using this hairy root based system. This analysis showed that the recombinant protein is characterized by highly homogeneous post translational profiles enabling a strong batch to batch reproducibility. Indeed, on each of the 6 N‐glycosylation sites of the IDUA, a single N‐glycan composed of a core Man3GlcNAc2 carrying one beta(1,2)‐xylose and one alpha(1,3)‐fucose epitope (M3XFGN2) was identified, highlighting the high homogeneity of the production system. Hydroxylation of proline residues and arabinosylation were identified during O‐glycosylation analysis, still with a remarkable reproducibility. This platform is thus positioned as an effective and consistent expression system for the production of human complex therapeutic proteins.
Cytomegalovirus infection in pediatric patients with hepatoblastoma after liver transplantation
Authors: Nodomi Seishiro , Umeda Katsutsugu , Kato Itaru , Saida Satoshi , Hiramatsu Hidefumi , Ogawa Eri , Yoshizawa Atsushi , Okamoto Shinya , Okajima Hideaki , Uemoto Shinji , Adachi Souichi
Published: July 2018

No studies have examined CMV infection in pediatric patients with HB receiving LT. Here, we retrospectively analyzed the incidence of and risk factors for CMV infection in 24 pediatric patients with HB who underwent LT between 1997 and 2015. CMV infection was monitored by measuring expression of pp65 CMV antigen for up to 4 months post‐LT. CMV infection, defined as detection of at least one pp65‐positive leukocyte, was detected in nine (37.5%) patients who did not develop CMV disease. Nine (47.4%) of nineteen patients who received post‐LT chemotherapy experienced CMV infection; however, no CMV infection was observed in the five patients who did not receive post‐LT chemotherapy (P = 0.012). There were no significant differences in the incidence of CMV infection between patients with ACR (60.0%) and those without (21.4%, P = 0.092), or between CMV seropositive (55.6%) and seronegative patients (33.3%, P = 0.675). All nine patients with CMV infection did not experience CMV disease due to the use of preemptive antiviral therapy. Close monitoring of CMV infection is recommended for patients with HB, particularly those receiving post‐LT chemotherapy. Preemptive antiviral therapy is feasible for prophylaxis of CMV disease.
Late‐life suicide in Asian people living in New Zealand: a qualitative study of coronial records
Authors: Wang Joanna , Ho Elsie , Au Patrick , Cheung Gary
Published: July 2018

Background

There has been no previous study examining the phenomenon of suicide in older Asians in New Zealand. The aim of this study was to identify common factors and gain a better understanding of late‐life suicide in Asian people living in New Zealand.

Methods

New Zealand Coronial Services provided records of all closed cases of late‐life suicides (age ≥ 65 years) between July 2007 and December 2012. Out of the total of 225 cases, 15 were recorded as being of Asian ethnicity. These cases were reviewed in their entirety using a qualitative thematic analysis approach.

Results

Eight Asian men and seven Asian women completed suicide during this period. The majority (93%) lived with their families, and 80% were found by family after having completed suicide at home. Three main themes emerged from the thematic analysis: (i) suicide occurring in the context of a family; (ii) declining physical health; and (iii) a violent method of suicide. The role of the family has not been previously identified in other studies of late‐life suicide in New Zealand.

Conclusions

Further research is needed to identify ways Asian families can access culturally appropriate and accessible support and mental health services for their older members at risk of suicide. There is also a need for developing post‐suicide interventions specifically for Asian families. The findings of this study have added to the growing evidence of declining physical health acting as a drive for late‐life suicide.
Effects of olfactory stimulation on reminiscence practice in community‐dwelling elderly individuals
Authors: Hanaoka Hideaki , Muraki Toshiaki , Ede Jacqueline , Yasuhara Koichiro , Okamura Hitoshi
Published: July 2018

Background

There has been little research on reminiscence cues and their effectiveness. The purpose of the present study was to measure the effects of reminiscence practice using olfactory stimuli on the mental health and cognitive functions of community‐dwelling elderly individuals.

Methods

Written consent was obtained from 72 eligible community‐dwelling elderly individuals. They were non‐randomly divided into an intervention group and a control group. In the intervention group (n = 35), reminiscence practice was carried out bi‐weekly using olfactory stimulation as the cue for eight sessions. In the control group (n = 37), reminiscence practice was carried out without olfactory stimulation. The Geriatric Depression Scale‐15 and the Five‐cog Test were used as the methods of assessment at baseline and again after completion of the intervention. Participants in the final analysis were 27 individuals in the intervention group and 33 individuals in the control group.

Results

At baseline, a significant difference was seen between the groups depending on the existence of a spouse. Repeated measures analysis of covariance with the existence of a spouse as a covariate showed a significant difference between the two groups in changes in Geriatric Depression Scale‐15 scores (P = 0.038). Furthermore, analysis of the participants sorted into a depression symptoms group and a non‐depression symptoms group showed a significant group main effect (P = 0.033) and interaction (P = 0.049) in the depression symptoms group.

Conclusion

The results suggest that reminiscence intervention using olfactory stimulation may maintain the mental health of community‐dwelling elderly individuals.
Underdiagnosis of delirium in the elderly in acute care hospital settings: lessons not learned
Authors: Ritter Simone R.F. , Cardoso Anne F. , Lins Marina M.P. , Zoccoli Thayana L.V. , Freitas Marco Polo D. , Camargos Einstein F.
Published: July 2018

Background

Delirium is a common and poorly diagnosed cause of behavioral change in elderly. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence, diagnostic accuracy and factors associated with the onset of delirium in the elderly admitted to an urgency unit.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study including clinically stable subjects aged ≥60 years between April and June of 2014. Diagnosis of delirium based on the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM, gold standard) was compared to the subjective assessment made by physicians on duty as recorded in the medical chart. Association of sociodemographic, psychological/behavioural, and clinical variables with delirium was assessed using multivariate analysis.

Results

A sample of 110 participants with a mean age of 72.7 ± 8.3 years was studied. Of these, 56.4% were men and 28.2% had a diagnosis of delirium on CAM. Significant associations were observed between delirium and male gender (P‐value = 0.019), poor or very poor self‐perception of health (P‐value = 0.033), previous diagnosis of dementia (P‐value = 0.001), previous history of stroke (P‐value = 0.014), and acute bacterial infection (P‐value = 0.008). Physician diagnosis had a sensitivity of 35.5%, specificity of 100%, and accuracy of 81.8% to detect delirium. Rate of misdiagnosis was 64.5%.

Conclusion

Delirium was underdiagnosed in this urgent care hospital setting.
The role of psychological autonomy in the acceptance of ageing among community‐dwelling elderly
Authors: Fukase Yuko , Murayama Norio , Tagaya Hirokuni
Published: July 2018

Aim

Previous research on psychological autonomy has focused on self‐reliance. However, given that ageing is inevitable, acceptance of ageing might be a more stable factor that reflects quality of life (QOL) status. This study examined factors that affect the acceptance of ageing as a part of psychological autonomy.

Methods

We conducted questionnaire surveys among community‐dwelling elderly people. The questionnaires consisted of the psychological autonomy scale, the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale, and the QOL scale.

Results

In total, 572 elderly people completed the questionnaire, including 293 younger elderly and 279 older elderly. In both age groups, a ceiling effect was observed for the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale. There was no positive relation between acceptance of ageing and QOL, and particularly in younger elderly people, acceptance of ageing was negatively related to QOL. However, the correlation between acceptance of ageing and self‐reliance was positive, and self‐reliance was positively related to QOL in younger elderly people.

Conclusions

The acceptance of ageing did not show a positive relation in our participants who had high activities of daily living. Acceptance of ageing might be important for elderly people who have a physical disability and several restrictions in their daily life. For younger elderly people, acceptance of ageing was correlated with getting depression, in which case it is useful to reject self‐ageing for QOL, and it was related to QOL through self‐reliance.
Detection of the time of foaling by accelerometer technique in horses (Equus caballus)—a pilot study
Authors: Hartmann Constanze , Lidauer Laura , Aurich Jörg , Aurich Christine , Nagel Christina
Published: July 2018

Contents

Observation of preparturient mares is labour‐intensive and time requirements would be reduced with automated monitoring systems. Recently, small‐size accelerometers have become available. We followed the hypothesis that increased restlessness in mares shortly before the expulsive stage of labour can be detected with such accelerometers. Accelerometers were attached medioventrally to the halter of eight late pregnant mares. To evaluate an influence of accelerometer position, in one mare two additional accelerometers were attached close to the mandibular and atlanto‐occipital joints. Accelerometers were programmed to send 600 signals/min (10 Hz). Signals were recorded continuously and, for evaluation, four intervals of 30‐min duration on day 4 before foaling and the last 2 hr before rupture of the allantochorion at foaling were selected. Signal detection was influenced by position of the accelerometer on the mares’ halter. The highest signal detection rate was reached with the accelerometer in the lateral and dorsal position but differences of accelerations measured by the system differed neither between sensor positions nor between time intervals 4 days before foaling. Differences of accelerations increased from 120 min before foaling until birth of the foal (p < 0.001) and this increase was most pronounced during the last 30–20 min before birth of the foal (p < 0.001). Technical improvements and a foaling specific algorithm are required to improve the accuracy to predict foaling. Even if this preliminary study included only a small number of mares, results demonstrate that accelerometers could be an important component of birth alert systems in horses in the future.
Relationship of vaginal discharge characteristics evaluated by Metricheck device to metabolic status in postpartum dairy cows
Authors: Kawashima Chiho , Suwanai Masashi , Honda Toshihiko , Teramura Makoto , Kida Katsuya , Hanada Masaaki , Miyamoto Akio , Matsui Motozumi
Published: July 2018

Contents

The relationship between vaginal discharge characteristics and metabolic status has been studied in postpartum dairy cows. Vaginal discharges at 2–6 weeks postpartum were scored weekly on a 1 (clear) to 5 (purulent material with stench) scale using the Metricheck device and classified into three groups as follows: Endometritis group (n = 19), greater than or equal to score 4 until 3 weeks postpartum; Delayed involution group (n = 9), score 2 or 3 after having score 1; Healthy group (n = 23), cows except those belonging to the Delayed involution and Endometritis groups. The uterus and cervix were assessed using ultrasonography. Blood samples were collected twice weekly from 1 to 6 weeks postpartum from all cows and were additionally obtained for 13,14‐dihydro‐15‐keto‐prostaglandin F2α (PGFM) measurements from multiparous cows. Cows with delayed involution had delayed onset of luteal activity (p < 0.05) and higher serum urea nitrogen (BUN) concentrations (p < 0.01) than healthy animals. Cows with endometritis had more peripartum diseases (p < 0.05), lower milk yield (p < 0.05), longer cervix diameter (p < 0.05), and lower serum albumin (p < 0.01), total cholesterol (p < 0.01), and magnesium (p < 0.01) concentrations, and higher aspartate aminotransferase levels (p < 0.05) than healthy cows. Plasma PGFM concentrations tended to be higher in the Delayed involution group (p = 0.083) and lower in the Endometritis group (p = 0.085) than in the Healthy group. In summary, delayed involution was shown to be associated with higher BUN concentration, and endometritis may have been caused by peripartum diseases and hepatic dysfunction.
Rams prefer tailed than docked ewes as sexual partners
Authors: Orihuela Agustin , Ungerfeld Rodolfo , Fierros‐García Angel , Pedernera Mariana , Aguirre Virginio
Published: July 2018

Contents

In several ungulate species, the tail is used to communicate sexual states of the female. However, the role of the tail or its movements in the sexual attractiveness of the ewe and sexual activity of the ram is still unknown. Two experiments were performed to determine the influence of the tail of the ewe in these aspects. In Experiment 1, 25 rams were individually tested in random order on two experimental dates using two‐choice tests to determine whether intact or docked ewes differ in sexual attractiveness, while in Experiment 2, the sexual performance of the ram towards intact or docked ewes was compared. Both experiments were performed with restrained oestrous ewes during 5‐min tests. In Experiment 1, rams approach first to intact or docked ewes randomly, but thereafter mounted and courted more tailed than docked ewes (p < 0.05). In Experiment 2, 22 rams were individually tested with intact and with docked ewes. The first day, 10 rams were tested with an intact ewe and 12 with a docked ewe. The following day, the tests were crossover, so each ram was tested with the other types of ewe. Rams displayed similar courtship and mounting behaviours similarly towards tailed and docked ewes. It was concluded that rams prefer to court and mate with tailed ewes over docked ewes. However, they display similar behaviours when they cannot choose between ewes of both conditions.
Competitive selection, trade, and employment: The strategic use of subsidies
Authors: Molana Hassan , Montagna Catia
Published: July 2018

Within a heterogeneous‐firms model with endogenous labor supply, intra‐industry competitive selection is shown to affect the impact of wage (and entry) subsidies. Optimal uniform wage subsidies are always positive even though, by reducing industry selectivity, they lower average productivity. Because of international selection and fiscal externalities, noncooperative policies entail under‐subsidization of wages. Targeted (domestic‐only or export) wage subsidies are dominated from a welfare point of view by a uniform subsidy. While always having an opposite effect on average productivity, an optimal entry subsidy is shown to be less effective than an optimal uniform wage subsidy in raising employment and welfare.
Trade policy preference, childhood sporting experience, and informal school curriculum: An examination of views of the TPP from the viewpoint of behavioral economics
Authors: Yamamura Eiji , Tsutsui Yoshiro
Published: July 2018

We investigated how childhood education and experiences helped to form noncognitive skills and later, trade policy preferences. We used individual‐level data with approximately 10,000 observations collected in July 2016. Using the instrumental variables (IV) method, with sporting experience and informal education in the childhood as exogenous IV, we found that (1) sporting experiences and informal education lead people to have positive subjective views about the role of group work, competition, reciprocity, and generalized trust and (2) positive views about the role of group work, competition, reciprocity, and trust leads people to prefer the Trans‐Pacific Strategic Economic Partnership Agreement (TPP).
Analysis of lateral rock spreading process initiation with a numerical modelling approach
Authors: Bois Thomas , Zerathe Swann , Lebourg Thomas , Tric Emmanuel
Published: July 2018

The first erosional front of the south‐eastern Alps has been affected by several deep‐seated landslides. The movements affected a Jurassic limestone sequence underlain by an upper Trias unit (Keuper) mainly composed of marl and clays. Horst‐ and graben‐like structures, newly formed gravitational faults, outflow and other field evidence suggest that such movements are consistent with lateral rock spreading processes. An example of such processes is the ‘La Marbrière’ slope, where field investigations have revealed that three distinct zones corresponding to three evolutionary stages of movement exist. The question is: What are the structural and mechanical modifications undergone by the slope between those evolution stages? To tackle this question, numerical models based on a 2D cross section of the ‘La Marbrière’ slope have been performed. Results show that, to fit the structural evidence of the precollapse situation, elasto‐plastic behaviour of the Trias Keuper unit is needed. The transition between the precollapse and fresh post‐collapse situations requires a modification of the mechanical behaviour of the Trias Keuper unit to Burger type, resulting in the formation of antithetic and synthetic gravitational faults (producing a graben‐like structure).
Quality assessment in point feature generalization with pattern preserved
Authors: Yu Wenhao
Published: July 2018

Geographical features often show certain spatial patterns on a map in terms of the arrangement of point symbols. These patterns are essentially related to the underlying geographical processes and landscapes. Thus, when deriving small‐scale maps from a large‐scale map, one of the most important constraints that cartographers or systems should follow is to retain the basic patterns of point objects on the target map. However, no research in the literature currently evaluates the quality of point feature generalization in terms of spatial pattern. This study proposes an approach to quantitatively measure the pattern change after generalization. The basic idea of the approach is to extend advanced image analysis techniques (e.g., texture recognition) to measure the patterns of point objects in a map space. Specifically, there are two main steps: firstly, the original space is converted into the raster space by utilizing a regularly spaced grid (i.e., a grayscale image) with cell attributes representing the local intensity level of point features; secondly, the texture analysis operation is performed on the grid to obtain the feature descriptors of the point pattern. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach is effective in comparing the point patterns before and after generalization.
Roles of pepper bZIP protein CaDILZ1 and its interacting partner RING‐type E3 ligase CaDSR1 in modulation of drought tolerance
Authors: Lim Chae Woo , Baek Woonhee , Lee Sung Chul
Published: July 2018

Abscisic acid (ABA) is a plant hormone that plays a key role in the environmental stress response, especially the induction of ABA‐responsive and stress‐responsive genes and modulation of the stomatal aperture in response to drought stress. Here, we identified CaDILZ1 (Capsicum annuum Drought‐Induced Leucine Zipper 1) belonging to subgroup D of the bZIP protein family; gene functions of this family in response to ABA and drought signaling still remain unknown. CaDILZ1 expression was significantly induced in pepper leaves after exposure to ABA, drought, and NaCl. The CaDILZ1 protein localized in the nucleus of plant cells. In response to drought stress, CaDILZ1‐silenced pepper and CaDILZ1‐overexpressing Arabidopsis plants exhibited drought‐sensitive and drought‐tolerant phenotypes, respectively, via altered ABA content, stomatal closure, and expression of ABA‐responsive and drought‐responsive marker genes. We isolated the RING finger protein CaDSR1 (Capsicum annuum Drought Sensitive RING finger protein 1), which interacted with CaDILZ1 in the nucleus. The CaDSR1 protein exhibited E3 ligase activity and promoted CaDILZ1 degradation via the 26S proteasome pathway. Under drought stress conditions, CaDSR1‐silenced pepper and CaDSR1‐overexpressing Arabidopsis plants exhibited contrasting phenotypes to those of CaDILZ1‐silenced pepper and CaDILZ1‐overexpressing Arabidopsis plants. Taken together, our data suggest that CaDSR1 and CaDILZ1 function in ABA‐mediated drought stress signaling in pepper plants.
Mutation of key amino acids in the polygalacturonase‐inhibiting proteins CkPGIP1 and GhPGIP1 improves resistance to Verticillium wilt in cotton
Authors: Liu Nana , Sun Yun , Wang Ping , Duan Hongxia , Ge Xiaoyang , Li Xiancai , Pei Yakun , Li Fuguang , Hou Yuxia
Published: July 2018

Verticillium wilt, one of the most devastating diseases of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), causes severe yield and quality losses. Given the effectiveness of plant polygalacturonase‐inhibiting proteins (PGIPs) in reducing fungal polygalacturonase (PG) activity, it is necessary to uncover the key functional amino acids to enhance cotton resistance to Verticillium dahliae. To identify novel antifungal proteins, the selectivity of key amino acids was investigated by screening against a panel of relevant PG‐binding residues. Based on the obtained results, homologous models of the mutants were established. The docking models showed that hydrogen bonds and structural changes in the convex face in the conserved portion of leucine‐rich repeats (LRRs) may be essential for enhanced recognition of PG. Additionally, we successfully constructed Cynanchum komarovii PGIP1 (CkPGIP1) mutants Asp176Val, Pro249Gln, and Asp176Val/Pro249Gln and G. hirsutum PGIP1 (GhPGIP1) mutants Glu169Val, Phe242Gln, and Glu169Val/Phe242Gln with site‐directed mutagenesis. The proteins of interest can effectively inhibit VdPG1 activity and V. dahliae mycelial growth in a dose‐dependent manner. Importantly, mutants that overproduced PGIP in Arabidopsis and cotton showed enhanced resistance to V. dahliae, with reduced Verticillium‐associated chlorosis and wilting. Furthermore, the lignin content was measured in mutant‐overexpressing plants, and the results showed enhanced lignification of the xylem, which blocked the spread of V. dahliae. Thus, using site‐directed mutagenesis assays, we showed that mutations in CkPGIP1 and GhPGIP1 give rise to PGIP versatility, which allows evolving recognition specificities for PG and is required to promote Verticillium resistance in cotton by restricting the growth of invasive fungal pathogens.