bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ophiostoma tsotsi and Ophiostoma quercus associated with Platypus cylindrus F. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in cork oak stands in Tunisia
Authors: Bellahirech Amani , Inácio Maria L. , Woodward Steve , Ben Jamâa Mohamed L. , Nóbrega Filomena
Published: December 2018

Ambrosia beetles, including Platypus cylindrus, commonly act as vectors of Ophiostomatales. In an investigation of fungi associated with P. cylindrus, several species of Ophiostomatales were identified, including two species of Ophiostoma s. str. These two species were characterized based on comparisons of DNA sequences of the internal transcribed spacer regions including the 5.8S gene of rDNA and β‐tubulin gene. Two distinct clades were discernable in the phylogenetic trees, supported by high bootstrap values. One clade included the species Ophiostoma tsotsi, reported herein for the first time in Tunisia, and the species Ophiostoma quercus.
Diplodia sapinea found on Scots pine in Finland
Authors: Müller Michael M. , Hantula Jarkko , Wingfield Michael , Drenkhan Rein
Published: December 2018

Diplodia sapinea is an important pathogen of Pinus spp. in many parts of the world's temperate and sub‐tropical zones. In Central Europe, this fungus has been known since its first description in the 19th century. But it was only in 2007 that the fungus was identified using DNA‐markers in northern Europe (in Estonia). Viljo Kujala reported observing D. sapinea on logging debris of Norway spruce in Finland in 1945, but we have not been able to verify the identifications from his herbarium samples. In 2004, we collected cones under asymptomatic Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) trees at one location near the southern coast of Finland but failed to isolate D. sapinea from the samples. In 2015 and 2016, we collected fallen Scots pine cones in 15 Scots pine stands in various parts of Finland and the fungus was found at five locations in southwestern Finland including the location investigated in 2004. Frequency of cones with pycnidia of D. sapinea varied from 1% to 12% in the infested stands. No symptoms of Diplodia tip blight or resinous cankers were detected in trees in the stands where the cones were collected. The results suggest a recent introduction after 2004 of the D. sapinea in Finland.
Talking about trauma in therapy: Perspectives from young people with post‐traumatic stress symptoms and first episode psychosis
Authors: Tong Janet , Simpson Katrina , Alvarez‐Jimenez Mario , Bendall Sarah
Published: December 2018

Aim

Despite recommendations from national guidelines, individuals with first episode psychosis (FEP) are currently unlikely to have the effects of their traumatic experiences assessed and treated within psychosis treatment. This may be due to the mismatch between the objectives of trauma‐specific treatments (directly targeting post‐traumatic stress symptoms by talking about the trauma) and trauma‐informed care (limiting practices that may retraumatise clients). We aimed to gain an understanding of what it was like for young people to talk about trauma in FEP treatment, and how their experiences related to the broad conceptualisations of trauma‐informed and trauma‐specific treatment approaches.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with eleven participants (18‐27 years) with FEP and post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms after the completion of an intervention for the effects of trauma. Transcripts were analysed using an interpretative phenomenological approach.

Results

Two superordinate themes were identified, each with subordinate themes. 1. Reluctance to approach the trauma memory: 1a. Not wanting to talk about trauma; 1b. Difficulty acknowledging that the trauma had occurred; 1c. Not wanting to re‐experience emotions associated with trauma. 2. Factors aiding the process: 2a. Desire for change; 2b. Not being pushed to talk; 2c. Valuing the case manager; 2d. Time.

Conclusions

A majority of participants in the study experienced reluctance when recounting their trauma memories. Being in control of how trauma memories are shared and having time for the therapeutic relationship to develop enhanced participants' readiness for talking about trauma. Incorporating trauma‐informed principles and motivational interviewing could aid in facilitating the processes around talking about trauma.
Prey nutrient content creates omnivores out of predators
Authors: Ugine Todd A. , Krasnoff Stuart B. , Grebenok Robert J. , Behmer Spencer T. , Losey John E.
Published: December 2018

The proximate forces that create omnivores out of herbivores and predators have long fascinated ecologists, but the causal reasons for a shift to omnivory are poorly understood. Determining what factors influence changes in trophic position are essential as omnivory plays a central role in theoretical and applied ecology. We used sevenspotted lady beetles (Coccinella septempunctata) to test how prey nutrient content affects beetles’ propensity to engage in herbivory. We show that beetles consuming an all‐prey diet demonstrate normal growth and development, but suffer a complete loss of fitness (spermatogenic failure) that is restored via herbivory and supplementation with phytosterols and cholesterol. Furthermore, we show that lady beetles possess a state‐dependent sterol‐specific appetite and redressed their sterol deficit by feeding on foliage. These results demonstrate that predators balance their nutrient intake via herbivory when prey quality is low, and reveal a selective force (sterol nutrition) that drives predatory taxa to omnivory.
Novel features for capturing temporal variations of rhythmic limb movement to distinguish convulsive epileptic and psychogenic nonepileptic seizures
Authors: Kusmakar Shitanshu , Karmakar Chandan , Yan Bernard , Muthuganapathy Ramanathan , Kwan Patrick , O'Brien Terence J , Palaniswami Marimuthu Swami
Published: December 2018

Objective

To investigate the characteristics of motor manifestation during convulsive epileptic and psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES), captured using a wrist‐worn accelerometer (ACM) device. The main goal was to find quantitative ACM features that can differentiate between convulsive epileptic and convulsive PNES.

Methods

In this study, motor data were recorded using wrist‐worn ACM‐based devices. A total of 83 clinical events were recorded: 39 generalized tonic–clonic seizures (GTCS) from 12 patients with epilepsy, and 44 convulsive PNES from 7 patients (one patient had both GTCS and PNES). The temporal variations in the ACM traces corresponding to 39 GTCS and 44 convulsive PNES events were extracted using Poincaré maps. Two new indices—tonic index (TI) and dispersion decay index (DDI)—were used to quantify the Poincaré‐derived temporal variations for every GTCS and convulsive PNES event.

Results

The TI and DDI of Poincaré‐derived temporal variations for GTCS events were higher in comparison to convulsive PNES events (P < 0.001). The onset and the subsiding patterns captured by TI and DDI differentiated between epileptic and convulsive nonepileptic seizures. An automated classifier built using TI and DDI of Poincaré‐derived temporal variations could correctly differentiate 42 (sensitivity: 95.45%) of 44 convulsive PNES events and 37 (specificity: 94.87%) of 39 GTCS events. A blinded review of the Poincaré‐derived temporal variations in GTCS and convulsive PNES by epileptologists differentiated 26 (sensitivity: 70.27%) of 44 PNES events and 33 (specificity: 86.84%) of 39 GTCS events correctly.

Significance

In addition to quantifying the motor manifestation mechanism of GTCS and convulsive PNES, the proposed approach also has diagnostic significance. The new ACM features incorporate clinical characteristics of GTCS and PNES, thus providing an accurate, low‐cost, and practical alternative to differential diagnosis of PNES.
Delineating species in the speciation continuum: A proposal
Authors: Galtier Nicolas
Published: December 2018

Delineating species is a difficult and seemingly uninteresting issue that is still essential to address. Taxonomic methodology is heterogeneous according to the taxa and scientists involved due to the disparate data quality and quantity and disagreements over the species concept. This has negative impacts on basic and applied research. Genomic data substantially enhance our understanding of the speciation process but do not provide a ubiquitous solution to the species problem. The relevance of comparative approaches in speciation research has nevertheless recently been demonstrated. I suggest moving towards a more unified taxonomic classification through a reference‐based decision procedure.
Fathers’ Dosage in Community‐based Programs for Low‐income Fathers
Authors: Fagan Jay , Pearson Jessica
Published: December 2018

Community‐based programs for low‐income fathers often struggle to get fathers to attend services and activities. This paper reviews the literature examining approaches to measuring dosage in fatherhood programs, rates of dosage, influences on dosage, and the associations between dosage and fathers’ outcomes. Studies were limited to programs that conducted randomized control trials, quasi‐experimental studies, and one‐group pretest/post‐test designs. Although most programs report low or moderate dosage levels, some programs achieve high levels of fathers’ participation in parenting, coparenting, and economic security classes. Few studies examined dosage in relation to father outcomes. All but one of seven studies reporting effects showed that higher dose levels had positive associations with outcomes such as engagement with children, parenting satisfaction and self‐efficacy, perception of coparenting quality, payment of child support, and earnings from work. This paper discusses future directions for studying father's dosage in fatherhood programs.
Major bleeding with antithrombotic agents: a 2012–2015 study using the French nationwide Health Insurance database linked to emergency department records within five areas – rationale and design of SACHA study
Authors: Bouget Jacques , Balusson Frédéric , Scailteux Lucie‐Marie , Maignan Maxime , Roy Pierre‐Marie , L'her Erwan , Pavageau Laure , Nowak Emmanuel
Published: December 2018

Bleeding represents the most recognized and feared complications of antithrombotic drugs including oral anticoagulants. Previous studies showed inconsistent results on the safety profile. Among explanations, bleeding definition could vary and classification bias exists related to the lack of medical evaluation. To quantify the risk of major haemorrhagic event and event‐free survival associated with antithrombotic drugs (vitamin K antagonist [VKA], non‐VKA anticoagulant [NOAC], antiplatelet agent, parenteral anticoagulant) in 2012–2015, we linked the French nationwide Health Insurance database (SNIIRAM) with a local ‘emergency database’ (clinical and biological data collected in clinical records). In the VKA‐NOAC comparison, a Cox regression analysis will be used to estimate the hazard ratio of major haemorrhagic event adjusted on gender, modified HAS‐BLED score and comorbidities. A distinction on the type of major haemorrhagic event (intracranial, gastrointestinal and other haemorrhagic events) was made. We present here the study protocol and the database linkage results. Using six linkage keys, among 3 837 557 hospital visits identified in SNIIRAM, 5264 have been matched with a major haemorrhagic event identified in the ‘emergency database’, thus clinically confirmed. The 1090 unmatched haemorrhagic events could be explained by the fact that patients were not extracted in the SNIIRAM database (patients living in accommodation establishment with internal use of pharmacy, military people with specific insurance…). We showed the value of SNIIRAM enrichment with a clinical database, a necessary step to categorize haemorrhagic events by a clinically relevant definition and medical validation; it will allow to estimate more accuracy each type of haemorrhagic event.
Chilling and forcing temperatures interact to predict the onset of wood formation in Northern Hemisphere conifers
Authors: Delpierre Nicolas , Lireux Ségolène , Hartig Florian , Camarero Jesus Julio , Cheaib Alissar , Čufar Katarina , Cuny Henri , Deslauriers Annie , Fonti Patrick , Gričar Jožica , Huang Jian‐Guo , Krause Cornelia , Liu Guohua , de Luis Martin , Mäkinen Harri , del Castillo Edurne Martinez , Morin Hubert , Nöjd Pekka , Oberhuber Walter , Prislan Peter , Rossi Sergio , Saderi Seyedeh Masoumeh , Treml Vaclav , Vavrick Hanus , Rathgeber Cyrille B. K.
Published: December 2018

The phenology of wood formation is a critical process to consider for predicting how trees from the temperate and boreal zones may react to climate change. Compared to leaf phenology, however, the determinism of wood phenology is still poorly known. Here, we compared for the first time three alternative ecophysiological model classes (threshold models, heat‐sum models and chilling‐influenced heat‐sum models) and an empirical model in their ability to predict the starting date of xylem cell enlargement in spring, for four major Northern Hemisphere conifers (Larix decidua, Pinus sylvestris, Picea abies and Picea mariana). We fitted models with Bayesian inference to wood phenological data collected for 220 site‐years over Europe and Canada. The chilling‐influenced heat‐sum model received most support for all the four studied species, predicting validation data with a 7.7‐day error, which is within one day of the observed data resolution. We conclude that both chilling and forcing temperatures determine the onset of wood formation in Northern Hemisphere conifers. Importantly, the chilling‐influenced heat‐sum model showed virtually no spatial bias whichever the species, despite the large environmental gradients considered. This suggests that the spring onset of wood formation is far less affected by local adaptation than by environmentally driven plasticity. In a context of climate change, we therefore expect rising winter–spring temperature to exert ambivalent effects on the spring onset of wood formation, tending to hasten it through the accumulation of forcing temperature, but imposing a higher forcing temperature requirement through the lower accumulation of chilling.
The American Headache Society Position Statement On Integrating New Migraine Treatments Into Clinical Practice
Authors:   American Headache Society
Published: December 2018

Objective

To provide healthcare professionals with updated guidance in the use of novel preventive and acute treatments for migraine in adults.

Background

The principles of preventive and acute pharmacotherapy for patients with migraine have been outlined previously, but the emergence of new technologies and treatments, as well as new formulations of previously established treatments, has created a need for an updated guidance on the preventive and acute treatment of migraine.

Methods

This statement is based on a review of existing guidelines and principles for preventive and acute treatment of migraine, as well as the results of recent clinical trials of drugs and devices for these indications. Input was sought from health insurance providers, employers, pharmacy benefit service companies, device manufacturers, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, patients, and patient advocates. Expert clinicians and researchers in the field of headache medicine from across North America and the European Union provided input and feedback.

Results

The principles of pharmacologic preventive treatment of migraine with oral treatments have been as follows: use evidence‐based treatments when possible and appropriate; start with a low dose and titrate slowly; reach a therapeutic dose if possible; allow for an adequate treatment trial duration; establish expectations of therapeutic response and adverse events; and maximize adherence. Newer injectable treatments may work faster and may not need titration. The principles of acute treatment include: use evidence‐based treatments when possible and appropriate; treat early after the onset of a migraine attack; choose a nonoral route of administration for selected patients; account for tolerability and safety issues; consider self‐administered rescue treatments; and avoid overuse of acute medications. Neuromodulation and biobehavioral therapy may be appropriate for preventive and acute treatment, depending on the needs of individual patients. Neuromodulation may be useful for patients who prefer nondrug therapies or who respond poorly, cannot tolerate, or have contraindications to pharmacotherapy.

Conclusions

This statement updates prior recommendations and outlines the indications for initiating, continuing, combining, and switching preventive and acute treatments of migraine.
Porous alumina scaffolds chemically modified by calcium phosphate minerals and their application in bone grafts
Authors: Silva André D. R. , Rigoli Willian R. , Mello Daphne C. R. , Vasconcellos Luana M. R. , Pallone Eliria M. J. A. , Lobo Anderson O.
Published: December 2018

The chemical modification of porous ceramic scaffold surfaces with calcium phosphate surges as an alternative to improve the bioactivity to be used as bone grafts. The biomimetic method has been commonly used to modify surfaces of Ti alloys but surges as alternative to modify ceramic biomaterials. Herein, we modified the surface of Al2O3 scaffolds with calcium phosphate minerals and strontium using the biomimetic method. The scaffolds were chemically treated using H3PO4 solution and then immersed in simulated body fluid 5× solution for 14 days. For the incorporation of strontium, they were immersed in an aqueous solution of 100 ppm analytical‐grade Sr(NO3)2 under magnetic stirring. The samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray microtomography, X‐ray diffraction, near‐infrared spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The biocompatibility and ability to differentiate osteoblasts in vitro were evaluated using human cells. The incorporation of strontium into the phosphate structure was verified. Scaffolds were obtained with high porosity, three‐dimensional structures, and the preferential adhesion and maturation of osteoblastic cells, which are essential to promote bone regeneration in vivo.
The lysyl oxidase like 2/3 enzymatic inhibitor, PXS‐5153A, reduces crosslinks and ameliorates fibrosis
Authors: Schilter Heidi , Findlay Alison D. , Perryman Lara , Yow Tin T. , Moses Joshua , Zahoor Amna , Turner Craig I. , Deodhar Mandar , Foot Jonathan S. , Zhou Wenbin , Greco Angelique , Joshi Amar , Rayner Benjamin , Townsend Sarah , Buson Alberto , Jarolimek Wolfgang
Published: December 2018

Fibrosis is characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular matrix and crosslinked proteins, in particular collagen and elastin, leading to tissue stiffening and disrupted organ function. Lysyl oxidases are key players during this process, as they initiate collagen crosslinking through the oxidation of the ε‐amino group of lysine or hydroxylysine on collagen side‐chains, which subsequently dimerize to form immature, or trimerize to form mature, collagen crosslinks. The role of LOXL2 in fibrosis and cancer is well documented, however the specific enzymatic function of LOXL2 and LOXL3 during disease is less clear. Herein, we describe the development of PXS‐5153A, a novel mechanism based, fast‐acting, dual LOXL2/LOXL3 inhibitor, which was used to interrogate the role of these enzymes in models of collagen crosslinking and fibrosis. PXS‐5153A dose‐dependently reduced LOXL2‐mediated collagen oxidation and collagen crosslinking in vitro. In two liver fibrosis models, carbon tetrachloride or streptozotocin/high fat diet‐induced, PXS‐5153A reduced disease severity and improved liver function by diminishing collagen content and collagen crosslinks. In myocardial infarction, PXS‐5153A improved cardiac output. Taken together these results demonstrate that, due to their crucial role in collagen crosslinking, inhibition of the enzymatic activities of LOXL2/LOXL3 represents an innovative therapeutic approach for the treatment of fibrosis.
Morphology and Phylogeny of Calyptospora paranaidji n. sp. (Eimeriorina: Calyptosporidae), an Apicomplexan Parasite of the Hepatic Tissue of Cichla piquiti Kullander & Ferreira, 2006, From a Reservoir in the Brazilian Amazon Region
Authors: da Silva Marcelo F. , da Silva Diehgo T. , Giese Elane G. , Hamoy Igor G. , Matos Edilson R.
Published: December 2018

The coccidians of the family Calyptosporidae are parasites of the tissue and organs of fish and aquatic invertebrates, in particular in the tropical region. In contrast with other apicomplexans of the suborder Eimeriorina, the diversity and ecology of the species of the genus Calyptospora have been poorly investigated, resulting in a lacuna that restricts the understanding of the distribution and prevalence of this group of eukaryote microparasites in the Amazon region. In the present study, the integrated comparative analysis of morphological characteristics, histological and structural traits, and the sequences of a fragment of the 18S rRNA gene, provides support for the identification of a new species of Calyptospora, found parasitizing the hepatic tissue of the piscivorous blue peacock bass, Cichla piquiti, captured in the reservoir of the Estreito hydroelectric dam on the middle Tocantins River in northern Brazil. This new species was named Calyptospora paranaidji n. sp.
Association of Informal Caregiver Distress with Health Outcomes of Community‐Dwelling Dementia Care Recipients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Stall Nathan M. , Kim Sanghun J. , Hardacre Kate A. , Shah Prakesh S. , Straus Sharon E. , Bronskill Susan E. , Lix Lisa M. , Bell Chaim M. , Rochon Paula A.
Published: December 2018

Background

Most dementia care occurs in the community with support from informal caregivers who are often distressed. Dementia caregiver distress is known to be hazardous to the caregiver's health, but the impact on the dementia care recipient is not well known.

Methods

We searched the Medline, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Cochrane databases from inception until June 2017 for studies investigating the association of informal caregiver distress with health outcomes of community‐dwelling dementia care recipients. The search results were screened and then data abstracted, and the risk of bias was appraised independently by pairs of reviewers.

Results

We included 81 original investigations (n = 43 761 caregivers and dementia care recipients). Sixty‐six studies (81.5%) were observational or cross‐sectional in design, and 47 studies (58%) had a low risk of bias. There was considerable clinical and methodological heterogeneity precluding quantitative synthesis. Dementia care recipients (n = 21 881) had a mean age of 78.2 years (SD ± 3.8 y), half (50.0%) were women, and two‐thirds (66.1%) had Alzheimer's disease. The dementia caregivers (n = 21 880) had a mean age of 62.5 years (SD ± 23.3), three‐quarters (74.1%) were women, and one‐half (50.5%) were spouses of the dementia care recipient. Twenty‐two unique dementia care recipient outcomes were studied including cognition, mood, quality of life, function, healthcare utilization, and costs. Overall, informal caregiver distress is commonly associated with the institutionalization of the dementia care recipient, worsening behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, and experiencing elder abuse.

Conclusion

Informal caregiving is a cornerstone of dementia care, and distress related to this role is associated with worsening of several dementia care recipient health outcomes. It is important that clinicians and researchers worldwide consider the broader consequences of caregiver distress. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:609–617, 2019.
Six years of experience using an advanced algorithm for botulinum toxin application
Authors: Casabona Gabriela , Kaye Kai , Barreto Marchese Paula , Boggio Ricardo , Cotofana Sebastian
Published: December 2018

Background

Botulinum toxin (BTX) products continue to be widely used for facial rejuvenation. Variables to consider prior to BTX treatment include the anatomical area to be treated, gender, muscle mass, ethnicity, skin thickness, and the effects of aging.

Objective

To describe a treatment algorithm which has been developed for facial rejuvenation to help physicians to easily and systematically customize BTX treatment, and to describe its use in a large number of patients.

Methods and Materials

Prior to treatment, digital images of patients were obtained while relaxed and while forming different facial expressions. This information was used to plan the depth, dose, and location of BTX injections (onabotulinumtoxinA; Botox®; Allergan, Inc). Dilution was 100 U of BTX to 1 mL 0.9% preserved saline. Injections were performed with 30 U insulin syringes and 30 gauge needles.

Results

The treatment algorithm described here has been used by the author for facial rejuvenation for more than 5 years. It was originally based on published guidelines; however, by carefully noting treatment outcomes, the number and location of injection points and the dose of BTX used have been modified to create the current treatment system.

Conclusion

Published guidelines for the use of BTX are an excellent starting point for clinicians with little experience; however, each practitioner is likely to develop their own algorithm for achieving good facial rejuvenation outcomes.
Microneedling by dermapen and glycolic acid peel for the treatment of acne scars: Comparative study
Authors: Saadawi Amr N. , Esawy Abdulla M. , Kandeel Abdalla H. , El‐Sayed Walaa
Published: December 2018

Background

Many methods have been performed to achieve a satisfying outcome in acne scars but some of them were high cost and also were associated with low results and some complications.

Objectives

To evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety therapy of glycolic acid (GA) peel, microneedling with dermapen and a combination of both procedures in treatment of atrophic acne scars.

Patents and methods

This study was conducted on 30 patients suffering from acne scars. They were randomly assigned into three groups, each group included 10 patients; group I was treated with GA peel, group II treated was with microneedling. Group III received a combination of both procedures. All patients received six sessions with 2‐week intervals. The clinical assessment was based on the qualitative global scar grading system before and after treatment, quartile grading scale, and degree of patient satisfaction.

Results

There was a statistically significant decrease in acne scars grade after treatment among the studied groups (P = 0.04) but it was higher in group III. There was improvement in boxcar, ice pick, and rolling scars in all groups, respectively (P = 0.03, P = 0.04, P = 0.04). Patients' satisfaction was higher in group III (P = 0.04).

Conclusion

The combination of dermapen and GA peel is more effective than monotherapy.
PETROLEUM GEOLOGY OF THE NOGAL BASIN AND SURROUNDING AREA, NORTHERN SOMALIA: PART 1, STRATIGRAPHY AND TECTONIC EVOLUTION
Authors: Ali M. Y. , Lee J.
Published: December 2018

In this study, 92 closely‐spaced reflection seismic profiles (∼4000 line‐km) were tied to biostratigraphic and lithological data from six deep exploration wells in the poorly‐known Nogal rift basin, northern Somalia, and were integrated with outcrop and aeromagnetic data to investigate the basin stratigraphy and tectonic evolution. Aeromagnetic data show NW‐SE trending magnetic anomalies which are interpreted as plutonic bodies intruded during the Early Cretaceous, probably contemporaneously with a pre‐Cenomanian uplift phase. The aeromagnetic data also suggest a change of basement type from Inda Ad Series metasediments in the SE of the study area to igneous and high‐grade metamorphic basement in the NW. Biostratigraphic data and seismic reflection profiles define the Nogal Basin as a WNW–ESE striking half‐graben, approximately 250 km long and 40 km wide, which formed as a result of mainly Cenomanian–Maastrichtian and Oligocene–Miocene intracontinental rifting. The depocentre contains at least 7000 m of Mesozoic and Cenozoic sediments and is located in the centre of the basin (east of well Nogal‐1), to the south of the Shileh Madu Range. To the north, the basin is bounded by a major border fault along which significant variations in the thickness of sedimentary units are observed, suggesting that the fault controlled basin architecture and patterns of sedimentation. Oligocene–Miocene normal faults which resulted in north‐tilted fault blocks are widespread within the main basin; smaller‐scale sub‐basins oriented NW‐SE to WNW‐ESE are observed to the NW of the basin and probably developed contemporaneously.

The Late Jurassic rift phase which has been documented elsewhere in northern Somalia is either missing in the Nogal Basin or is preserved only in localised grabens in the western and central parts of the basin. This is probably due to the pre‐Cenomanian uplift and erosion which removed almost the entire Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous successions over a wide area referred to as the Nogal‐Erigavo Arch. A more pronounced rifting episode followed this erosional event in the Cenomanian–Maastrichtian and resulted in the deposition of well‐sorted fluvio‐deltaic sandstones (Gumburo and Jesomma Formations), more than 2000 m thick. In wells in the Nogal Basin, these formations are between two and three times thicker than in wells drilled in footwall locations, and include excellent reservoir rocks sealed by transgressive mudstones and carbonates. A final rifting event in the Oligocene–Miocene was related to the opening of the Gulf of Aden. A rift sag phase which accommodated the Early Oligocene continental sediments of the Nogal Group initially developed at the centre of the basin. This was followed by a period of strong rotational faulting and tilting, which reactivated the Cenomanian–Maastrichtian structures.
Baseline sensitivity and control efficacy of fluazinam against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in Henan Province, China
Authors: Liu Shengming , Jiang Jia , Che Zhiping , Tian Yuee , Chen Genqiang
Published: December 2018

Sclerotinia stem rot, caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, is a devastating disease in Henan Province, of the main rapeseed production areas in China. Fluazinam belongs to the broad‐spectrum phenylpyridinamine fungicides, which have high activity in inhibiting the mycelial growth of S. sclerotiorum. In this study, 191 field isolates were obtained from different oilseed rape fields in Henan Province, before being exposed to fluazinam in 2015. The baseline sensitivity of S. sclerotiorum to fluazinam was established. The effective concentration for 50% inhibition of mycelial growth (EC50) ranged from 0.0019 to 0.0337 μg/ml, and the mean EC50 value was 0.0084 ± 0.0055 μg/ml. The range of the frequency distribution was narrow. The results of a cross‐resistance assay revealed no cross‐resistance between fluazinam and carbendazim, dimethachlone, boscalid or fludioxonil. Field efficacy tests showed that the control efficacies of fluazinam (50% WG) applied at 150, 225 and 300 g ai ha−1 were 67%, 73% and 88%, respectively. In contrast, the control efficacies of boscalid (50% WG) and carbendazim (50% WP) applied at 225 and 1,500 g ai ha−1 were 71% and 52%, respectively.
Sleep condition and cognitive decline in Japanese community‐dwelling older people: Data from a 4‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Nakakubo Sho , Doi Takehiko , Makizako Hyuma , Tsutsumimoto Kota , Hotta Ryo , Kurita Satoshi , Kim Minji , Suzuki Takao , Shimada Hiroyuki
Published: December 2018

This study examined whether sleep duration and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) are related to cognitive decline among community‐dwelling older adults with intact cognition at baseline, using 4‐year longitudinal data. A total of 3,151 community‐dwelling older individuals aged ≥65 years were studied. They were assessed for cognitive function, including memory, attention, executive function and processing speed. Cognitive impairment was defined based on a score >1.5 standard deviations below the age‐ and education‐specific mean. Cognitive decline was defined in one or more cognitive tests at follow‐up. Self‐reported sleep duration (short, ≤6.0 hr; medium, 6.1–8.9 hr; long, ≥9.0 hr) and EDS at first‐wave examination were assessed and logistic regression analyses were used to examine the associations of sleep duration and EDS with cognitive status at second‐wave examination. The incidence of cognitive decline differed significantly among the sleep‐duration groups (short, 15.9%; medium, 11.9%; long, 20.1%; p = 0.001). The prevalence of having EDS was 13.1%, which was associated with a higher rate of cognitive decline than having no EDS (18.9% vs. 12.5%, p = 0.004). Long sleep duration compared with medium sleep duration (OR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.05–2.13) and EDS (1.43; 1.01–2.03) independently impacted the incidence of cognitive decline. The results were similar after multiple imputations (long, 1.68, 1.12–2.52; EDS, 1.55, 1.05–2.29). In conclusion, our study revealed that both long sleep duration and EDS were independent risk factors associated with cognitive decline after 4 years among older adults.
Characterization of the Citrobacter rodentium Cpx regulon and its role in host infection
Authors: Vogt Stefanie L. , Scholz Roland , Peng Yun , Guest Randi L. , Scott Nichollas E. , Woodward Sarah E. , Foster Leonard J. , Raivio Tracy L. , Finlay B. Brett
Published: December 2018

Envelope‐localized proteins, such as adhesins and secretion systems, play critical roles in host infection by Gram‐negative pathogens. As such, their folding is monitored by envelope stress response systems. Previous studies demonstrated that the Cpx envelope stress response is required for virulence of Citrobacter rodentium, a murine pathogen used to model infections by the human pathogens enteropathogenic and enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli; however, the mechanisms by which the Cpx response promotes host infection were previously unknown. Here, we characterized the C. rodentium Cpx regulon in order to identify genes required for host infection. Using transcriptomic and proteomic approaches, we found that the Cpx response upregulates envelope‐localized protein folding and degrading factors but downregulates pilus genes and type III secretion effectors. Mouse infections with C. rodentium strains lacking individual Cpx‐regulated genes showed that the chaperone/protease DegP and the disulfide bond oxidoreductase DsbA were essential for infection, but Cpx regulation of these genes did not fully account for attenuation of C. rodentium ΔcpxRA. Both deletion of dsbA and treatment with the reducing agent dithiothreitol activated the C. rodentium Cpx response, suggesting that it may sense disruption of disulfide bonding. Our results highlight the importance of envelope protein folding in host infection by Gram‐negative pathogens.
Pseudozyma aphidis activates reactive oxygen species production, programmed cell death and morphological alterations in the necrotrophic fungus Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Calderón Claudia E. , Rotem Neta , Harris Raviv , Vela‐Corcía David , Levy Maggie
Published: December 2018

Many types of yeast have been studied in the last few years as potential biocontrol agents against different phytopathogenic fungi. Their ability to control plant diseases is mainly through combined modes of action. Among them, antibiosis, competition for nutrients and niches, induction of systemic resistance in plants and mycoparasitism have been the most studied. In previous work, we have established that the epiphytic yeast Pseudozyma aphidis inhibits Botrytis cinerea through induced resistance and antibiosis. Here, we demonstrate that P. aphidis adheres to B. cinerea hyphae and competes with them for nutrients. We further show that the secreted antifungal compounds activate the production of reactive oxygen species and programmed cell death in B. cinerea mycelium. Finally, P. aphidis and its secreted compounds negatively affect B. cinerea hyphae, leading to morphological alterations, including hyphal curliness, vacuolization and branching, which presumably affects the colonization ability and infectivity of B. cinerea. This study demonstrates additional modes of action for P. aphidis and its antifungal compounds against the plant pathogen B. cinerea.
Is continuous better than intermittent control of tracheal cuff pressure? A meta‐analysis
Authors: Wen Zunjia , Wei Li , Chen Junyu , Xie Ailing , Li Mei , Bian Lanzheng
Published: December 2018

Aim

To compare and evaluate the efficacy and safety of continuous and intermittent control of cuff pressure.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive and systematic meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the continuous and intermittent control of Pcuff by searching PUBMED, EMBASE and other such databases (from inception to 31 March 2018). Summary odds ratios or mean differences with 95% confidence intervals were calculated using a fixed‐ or random‐effects model.

Measurements and Main Results

Seven randomised controlled trials with 970 mechanically ventilated patients were included in this study. The continuous control of cuff pressure significantly reduced the incidence of cuff pressure < 20 cm H2O (0.03 (OR) (95% CI: 0.01–0.07)), Pcuff > 30 cm H2O (0.06 (95% CI: 0.03–0.15)) and VAP (0.39 (95% CI: 0.28–0.55)) when compared with intermittent control of cuff pressure. No significant differences in duration of MV (‐1.94 (95% CI: ‐4.06 to ‐0.17)), length of ICU stay (‐3.88 (95% CI: ‐9.00 to ‐1.23)) and mortality (0.99 (95% CI: 0.73–1.35)) were found between the two groups.

Conclusions

Continuous control of cuff pressure offers more benefits in stabilizing the cuff pressure and reducing the incidence of VAP, and more studies are warranted to further evaluate the role of continuous control of cuff pressure.

Relevance to practice

The continuous control of cuff pressure should be conducted whenever possible as it is the most ideal for the prognosis of MV patients.
High‐energy nutrition in paediatric cardiac critical care patients: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Huiwen , Gu Ying , Mi YaPing , Jin Yun , Fu Weijia , Latour Jos M
Published: December 2018

Background

Previous studies have shown that feeding a high‐energy formula (HF) to infants after cardiac surgery increases energy intake, with fewer side effects on cardiopulmonary function. However, impacts on weight gain and gastrointestinal function remain unclear.

Aims and objectives

To determine the impact of HF compared with standard formula on weight gain and gastrointestinal tolerance in postoperative infants with congenital heart disease.

Design

This was a randomized controlled trial.

Methods

The setting of the study was at a 20‐bed cardiac intensive care unit at a tertiary children's hospital in China. Study population included infants <1 year of age who underwent cardiac surgery and were allocated to the intervention group (n = 32) or control group (n = 32). The intervention group received HF (100 kcal/100 mL), and the control group received standard formula (67 kcal/100 mL) for 7 days during the stabilized postoperative period at the cardiac intensive care unit. Primary outcomes were weight gain and gastrointestinal intolerance. Secondary outcomes were energy intake and standard intensive care characteristics.

Results

Infants who received HF (n = 30) showed less weight loss than those who received standard formula (n = 29); −16 g [95% confidence interval (CI): −74 to 42] versus −181 g (95% CI: −264 to −99), P = 0·001. The evaluation of gastrointestinal intolerance showed that the intervention group had several side effects, such as abdominal distension (n = 1), gastric retention (n = 2) and diarrhoea (n = 1), while the control group had no problems. Enteral energy intake in the intervention group was higher than the control group from day three.

Conclusion

Infants after cardiac surgery fed with HF gained more weight but had increased feeding intolerance. However, the feeding intolerance symptoms could be relieved by medication and did not affect feeding advancement.

Relevance to clinical practice

Paediatric intensive care clinicians should consider gradually increasing the energy density of the formula during feeding and assess feeding intolerance signs in some children with malnutrition after cardiac surgery.
Phytophthora infestans effector SFI3 targets potato UBK to suppress early immune transcriptional responses
Authors: He Qin , McLellan Hazel , Hughes Richard K. , Boevink Petra C. , Armstrong Miles , Lu Yuan , Banfield Mark J. , Tian Zhendong , Birch Paul R. J.
Published: December 2018

The potato blight agent Phytophthora infestans secretes a range of RXLR effectors to promote disease. Recent evidence indicates that some effectors suppress early pattern‐triggered immunity (PTI) following perception of microbe‐associated molecular patterns (MAMPs). Phytophthora infestans effector PiSFI3/Pi06087/PexRD16 has been previously shown to suppress MAMP‐triggered pFRK1‐Luciferase reporter gene activity. How PiSFI3 suppresses immunity is unknown.

We employed yeast‐two‐hybrid (Y2H) assays, co‐immunoprecipitation, transcriptional silencing by RNA interference and virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS), and X‐ray crystallography for structure‐guided mutagenesis, to investigate the function of PiSFI3 in targeting a plant U‐box‐kinase protein (StUBK) to suppress immunity.

We discovered that PiSFI3 is active in the host nucleus and interacts in yeast and in planta with StUBK. UBK is a positive regulator of specific PTI pathways in both potato and Nicotiana benthamiana. Importantly, it contributes to early transcriptional responses that are suppressed by PiSFI3. PiSFI3 forms an unusual trans‐homodimer. Mutation to disrupt dimerization prevents nucleolar localisation of PiSFI3 and attenuates both its interaction with StUBK and its ability to enhance P. infestans leaf colonisation.

PiSFI3 is a ‘WY‐domain’ RXLR effector that forms a novel trans‐homodimer which is required for its ability to suppress PTI via interaction with the U‐box‐kinase protein StUBK.
Comparison of phase mapping and electrogram‐based driver mapping for catheter ablation in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Lin Chin‐Yu , Lin Yenn‐Jiang , Narayan Sanjiv M. , Baykaner Tina , Lo Men‐Tzung , Chung Fa‐Po , Chen Yun‐Yu , Chang Shih‐Lin , Lo Li‐Wei , Hu Yu‐Feng , Liao Jo‐Nan , Tuan Ta‐Chuan , Chao Tze‐Fan , Te Abigail Louise D. , Kuo Ling , Vicera Jennifer Jeanne B. , Chang Ting‐Yung , Salim Simon , Chien Kuo‐Liong , Chen Shih‐Ann
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Adjunctive driver‐guided ablation in addition to pulmonary vein isolation has been proposed as a strategy to improve procedural success and outcomes for various populations with atrial fibrillation (AF). First, this study aimed to evaluate the different mapping techniques for driver/rotor identification and second to evaluate the benefits of driver/rotor‐guided ablation in patients with paroxysmal and persistent AF (PerAF).

Methods

We searched the electronic database in PubMed using the keywords “atrial fibrillation,” “rotor,” “rotational driver,” “atrial fibrillation source,” and “drivers” for both randomized controlled trials and observational controlled trials. Clinical studies reporting efficacy or safety outcomes of driver‐guided ablation for paroxysmal AF or (PerAF) were identified. We performed subgroup analyses comparing different driver mapping methods in patients with PerAF. The odds ratios (ORs) with random effects were analyzed.

Results

Out of 175 published articles, seven met the inclusion criteria, of which two were randomized controlled trials, one was quasiexperimental study, and four observational studies (three case‐controlled studies and one cross‐sectional study). Overall, adjunctive driver‐guided ablation was associated with higher rates of acute AF termination (OR: 4.62, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.12‐10.08; P < 0.001), lower recurrence of any atrial arrhythmia (OR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.30‐0.065; P < 0.001), and comparable complication incidence.

Conclusions

Adjunctive driver‐guided catheter ablation suggested an increased freedom from AF/AT relative to conventional strategies, irrespective of the mapping techniques. Furthermore, phase mapping appears to be superior to electrogram‐based driver mapping in PerAF ablation.
A genetic linkage map in southern‐by‐spring oat identifies multiple quantitative trait loci for adaptation and rust resistance
Authors: Sunstrum Frédérick G. , Bekele Wubishet A. , Wight Charlene P. , Yan Weikai , Chen Yuanhong , Tinker Nicholas A.
Published: December 2018

We developed 178 recombinant inbred lines from a southern‐by‐spring oat population designated as “TxH.” These lines were genotyped to generate a high‐quality linkage map that resolved 6,902 markers into 21 linkage groups that matched closely with the latest hexaploid oat consensus map. Three major quantitative trait loci (QTLs) affecting heading date were found in locations that are consistent with known QTLs and candidate genes, and two other QTLs affecting heading date were found in novel locations. Five QTLs affecting plant height were found. Both sets of QTLs are responsible for transgressive segregation observed for these two traits. Four QTLs affecting resistance to crown rust, caused by the pathogen Puccinia coronata f. sp. avenae, were identified. Two of these QTLs are consistent with known clusters of rust resistance genes, while two may represent new locations of novel rust resistance genes. A complete set of SNP sequences suitable for generating markers for molecular selection is provided.
Effects of the strict control of blood pressure in pediatric renal transplant recipients—ESCORT trial
Authors: Seeman Tomáš , Vondrák Karel , Dušek Jiří
Published: December 2018

Objectives

Strict BP control can retard progression of CKD in children. This prospective 3‐year randomized controlled trial is aimed to investigate whether strict BP control can retard progression of chronic allograft dysfunction.

Methods

Twenty‐three pediatric patients were randomly selected to the standard BP group (STAND, target 24‐hour MAP 50‐95th percentile, n = 11) or the intensified BP group (INTENS, target 24‐hour MAP <50th percentile, n = 12). The primary endpoint was an annual reduction in eGFR (Schwartz formula, mL/min/1.73 m2/y), secondary graft survival, BP, proteinuria, and safety.

Results

A total of 21 children (age at entry 11.2 (range 6.2‐16.8) years) completed the study, with 73% of children in INTENS and 70% of children in STAND group reached their goal BP. Ambulatory indexed 24‐hour MAP decreased significantly in INTENS group (from 0.94 (range 0.86‐1.17) to 0.85 (range 0.79‐1.01, P < 0.01)) but not in STAND group (from 0.93 (range 0.85‐1.07) to 0.90 (range 0.84‐1.01)). Proteinuria did not change significantly in either group (22.1 mg/mmol creatinine to 15.3 in STAND group vs 25.7 to 11.8 in INTENS group). The annual reduction in eGFR did not differ between the INTENS and STAND groups (−1.9 mL/min/1.73 m2/y (range +6.4 to −14.3) vs −0.9 (range +4.0 to −8.5)).

Conclusion

This first randomized controlled trial on strict BP control has demonstrated that strict BP control is feasible in 73% of children but the strict BP control does not lead to retardation of graft function decline in comparison with standard BP control. However, the results need to be interpreted with caution keeping the major limitation of the study, that is, small sample size in mind.