bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimized fishing through periodically harvested closures
Authors: Carvalho Paul G. , Jupiter Stacy D. , Januchowski‐Hartley Fraser A. , Goetze Jordan , Claudet Joachim , Weeks Rebecca , Humphries Austin , White Crow
Published: June 2019

Periodically harvested closures are a widespread, centuries‐old form of fisheries management that protects fish between pulse harvests and can generate high harvest efficiency by reducing fish wariness of fishing gear. However, the ability for periodic closures to also support high fisheries yields and healthy marine ecosystems is uncertain, despite increased promotion of periodic closures for managing fisheries and conserving ecosystems in the Indo‐Pacific.

We developed a bioeconomic fisheries model that considers changes in fish wariness, based on empirical field research, and quantified the extent to which periodic closures can simultaneously maximize harvest efficiency, fisheries yield and conservation of fish stocks.

We found that periodic closures with a harvest schedule represented by closure for one to a few years between a single pulse harvest event can generate equivalent fisheries yield and stock abundance levels and greater harvest efficiency than achievable under conventional fisheries management with or without a permanent closure.

Optimality of periodic closures at maximizing the triple objective of high harvest efficiency, high fisheries yield, and high stock abundance was robust to fish life history traits and to all but extreme levels of overfishing. With moderate overfishing, there emerged a trade‐off between periodic closures that maximized harvest efficiency and no‐take permanent closures that maximized yield; however, the gain in harvest efficiency outweighed the loss in yield for periodic closures when compared with permanent closures. Only with extreme overfishing, where fishing under nonspatial management would reduce the stock to ≤18% of its unfished level, was the harvest efficiency benefit too small for periodic closures to best meet the triple objective compared with permanent closures.

Synthesis and applications. We show that periodically harvested closures can, in most cases, simultaneously maximize harvest efficiency, fisheries yield, and fish stock conservation beyond that achievable by no‐take permanent closures or nonspatial management. Our results also provide design guidance, indicating that short closure periods between pulse harvest events are most appropriate for well‐managed fisheries or areas with large periodic closures, whereas longer closure periods are more appropriate for small periodic closure areas and overfished systems.
The National Coronial Information System: Saving Lives through the Power of Data
Authors: Dunstan Lauren
Published: June 2019

The National Coronial Information System (NCIS) is a secure database of mortality‐specific information on deaths reported to a coroner in Australia and New Zealand. The NCIS contains data on over 380,000 cases, investigated by a coroner. Data include demographic information on the deceased, contextual details on the nature of the fatality and searchable medico‐legal case reports including the coronial finding, autopsy and toxicology report and police notification of death. The database is available to coroners to assist investigations and appropriate access is available on application for research or monitoring projects.
Valuing the Humanities
Authors: O’Mahony John , Garga Rohan , Thomas Michael , Kimber Max
Published: June 2019

Humanities education and research have been a critical foundation of societies for centuries. However, societal change and the broadening of tertiary education over time have negatively affected the position and perception of the humanities, at least in relative terms. This article aims to redress this slide, informing discussion by bringing together new and existing evidence. We find that businesses, governments and societies in general benefit from humanities‐educated individuals. We also find the humanities can improve students’ job and earning prospects and equip them with a range of technical and transferrable skills.
Impairment of sperm maturation and capacitation due to diet‐dependent cholesterol overload
Authors: Saez F. , Whitfield M. , Drevet J. R.
Published: June 2019

Background

Lipid metabolic disorders (dyslipidemia) are constantly increasing in occidental societies and lead to the development of pathologies such as obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. It has been demonstrated that dyslipidemia can alter the reproductive function. Animal models have recently been used to show that the offspring of dyslipidemic males could also develop such pathologies and that the transgenerational transmission involved post‐testicular sperm maturation. These data targeted the essential role of male gamete epididymal maturation and its importance for the health of the offspring.

Objectives

This publication summarizes in the first place experimental data obtained using a mouse model of dyslipidemia‐induced post‐testicular infertility, knockout mice for the two isoforms of the ‘Liver X Receptors’ (Lxrα;β−/−), the major regulators of cholesterol homeostasis. The impact of a high cholesterol diet (HCD) on the protein YWHAZ (14‐3‐3 ζ or tyrosine 3‐monooxygenase/tryptophan 5‐monooxygenase activation protein Zeta) was also investigated in our model.

Materials and methods

In our mouse model, when young fertile Lxrα;β−/− males aged three months were fed four weeks with a HCD, they developed an epididymal phenotype leading to infertility. The level of sperm YWHAZ was evaluated by Western blot and its tyrosine phosphorylation state by immunoprecipitation followed by Western blot.

Results

Our data revealed that sperm lipid composition and structure were altered, leading to defects of the capacitation‐associated signaling pathway. They also showed that both the level and the tyrosine phosphorylation state of YWHAZ were affected by the HCD in sperm cells from Lxrα;β−/− males.

Discussion and conclusion

YWHAZ could be a new important regulator of capacitation‐associated tyrosine phosphorylation and a marker of dyslipidemia‐induced infertility.
The learning curve for Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty performed by two experienced corneal surgeons: a consecutive series of 40 cases
Authors: Wubbels René J. , Remeijer Lies , Engel Angela , van Rooij Jeroen
Published: June 2019

Purpose

To describe the learning curve for Descemet's membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) in the Rotterdam Eye Hospital and to evaluate safety and visual outcome.

Methods

This was a single‐centre prospective study of 40 consecutive patients with Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy who underwent a DMEK procedure in the Rotterdam Eye Hospital. The performance of two corneal surgeons, each conducting their first series of 20 procedures, was examined with the cumulative summation test for the learning curve (LC‐CUSUM). The surgical procedure was considered unsuccessful when >30% of the graft was not attached at any time during the first 12 postoperative weeks and a mixture of SF6 (20%) and air (80%) had to be injected in the anterior chamber (rebubbling) to reattach the graft. Also assessed were visual outcome, intraocular pressure and peri‐ and postoperative complications.

Results

In total, nine rebubbling procedures were performed in seven eyes. Following repeated rebubbling, two eyes did not achieve a satisfactory result and secondary surgery was required to restore visual function. Complications were usually manageable. The last 13 DMEK procedures (33%) of this series did not require rebubbling. After 3 months, 86% of the eyes had reached a Snellen visual acuity of 0.5 or more.

Conclusion

Together with the two surgeons’ personal experience, the aggregate learning curve was considered to justify incorporation of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty as a regular option of the standard of care for endothelial dysfunction in the Rotterdam Eye Hospital.
Normative data on penile and anogenital measurements of term male infants in Sagamu, Nigeria
Authors: Adekoya Adesola Olubunmi , Fetuga Musili Bolanle , Jarrett Olumide Olatokunbo , Ogunlesi Tinuade Adetutu , Chanoine Jean‐Pierre , Oba‐Daini Olubunmi Obafemi
Published: June 2019

Aim

To document normative data on penile size and anogenital distances of apparently normal term male infants in Sagamu, Nigeria.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was carried out on 303 term male infants within the first 72 hours of life. Stretched penile length, penile width and three measures of anogenital distances were recorded: anogenital distance‐1, anogenital distance‐2 and anoscrotal distance.

Results

The mean (±SD) stretched penile length and penile width were 39.4 ± 4.2 mm and 11.0 ± 1.0 mm, respectively. The mean values for anogenital distance‐1, anogenital distance‐2 and the anoscrotal distance were 48.7 ± 3.9 mm, 42.8 ± 4.6 mm and 25.5 ± 3.9 mm, respectively. Only penile width and anogenital distance‐1 significantly correlated with all the anthropometric parameters but anogenital distance‐1 had the strongest correlation (p < 0.01 for all).

Conclusion

The observed mean stretched penile length was greater than previously reported. Local references are preferable in interpreting anogenital measurements in newborns to avoid diagnostic errors. There is need for a consensus on the definition of micropenis.
Fairness, prosociality, hypocrisy, and happiness: Children's and adolescents’ motives for showing unselfish behaviour and positive emotions
Authors: Krettenauer Tobias , Bauer Kathleen , Sengsavang Sonia
Published: June 2019

The present study examined what motives account for age‐related decreases in selfish behaviour and whether these motives equally predict positive emotions when making a moral decision. The study was based on a sample of 190 children and adolescents (101 females) from three different age groups (childhood, early adolescence, and middle adolescence, M = 12.9 years, SD = 2.58). A decision‐making task was used where participants chose between (1) maximizing their own self‐interest versus (2) being prosocial, (3) being fair, or (4) appearing fair while avoiding the costs of actually being fair. Overall, prosociality and fairness were equally important motives for unselfish behaviour. At the same time, the importance of fairness motivation increased with age. Hypocrisy motivation was less frequent than expected by chance. Prosociality was most strongly and positively associated with self‐rated happiness about the decision, whereas the opposite was found for individuals who were motivated by fairness. Overall, the study indicates that children's or adolescents’ unselfish behaviour in decision‐making tasks are driven by a variety of motives with diverse emotional implications. The relative importance of these motives changes over the course of development.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Older children behave less selfishly in resource allocation tasks.

Prosocial behaviour is associated with positive emotions.

What the present study adds?

Unselfish behaviour is equally motivated by fairness and prosociality.

Fairness motivation increases from childhood throughout adolescence.

Decisions motivated by prosociality are experienced as more positive than decisions motivated by fairness.
Content validation of the Quality of Life Inventory—Disability
Authors: Epstein Amy , Williams Katrina , Reddihough Dinah , Murphy Nada , Leonard Helen , Whitehouse Andrew , Jacoby Peter , Downs Jenny
Published: June 2019

Background

Focus is shifting to better understand the lived experiences of children with intellectual disability in relation to their quality of life (QOL). Yet no available QOL measures are grounded in the domains important for this population. We previously conducted qualitative parent caregiver interviews identifying QOL domains in children with intellectual disability to constitute a new measure of QOL. This study describes the content validity of the Quality of Life Inventory—Disability (QI‐Disability), a parent‐report measure developed for children with intellectual disability.

Methods and Results

Questionnaire items were extracted from a qualitative dataset of 77 parent caregiver interviews. To establish content validation, a draft of QI‐Disability was administered to 16 parent caregivers of children with intellectual disability (Down syndrome, Rett syndrome, cerebral palsy, or autism spectrum disorder). Parents participated in a cognitive interviewing procedure known as the “think‐aloud” method. The process of item generation, cognitive debriefing, and refinement of QI‐Disability prior to its pilot testing are described. A conceptual framework is presented.

Conclusions

Satisfactory content validity is reported, where ongoing consumer feedback shaped the dataset from which the final items were selected. Use of QI‐Disability for children with intellectual disability will allow for greater insight into service utility and targeted intervention.
Accuracy of CT colonography in the preoperative staging of colon cancer: a prospective study of 217 patients
Authors: Maupoey Ibáñez J. , Pàmies Guilabert J. , Frasson M. , Boscà Robledo A. , Giner Segura F. , García‐Granero Ximénez E.
Published: June 2019

Aim

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the accuracy of computed tomography colonography (CTC) in the preoperative localization and TN staging of colon cancer. CTC can be an effective technique for preoperative evaluation of colon cancer and could facilitate the selection of high‐risk patients who may benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Method

This was a prospective observational study conducted at a single tertiary‐care centre. It involved 217 patients (225 tumours) who had colon cancer and underwent preoperative CTC and elective colectomy. The radiologist determined the TNM stage using postprocessing software with multiplanar images and virtual colonoscopy. The following criteria were analysed for every colon tumour: location, size and signs of direct colon wall invasion. The histopathological findings of the surgical colectomy specimens served as the reference standard for local staging.

Results

CTC detected all tumours and achieved an exact location in 208 cases (92.4%). CTC findings changed the surgical plan in 31 patients (14.3%) following colonoscopy. The accuracy in differentiating T3/T4 vs T1/T2 tumours was 87.1%, with a sensitivity and specificity of 88.5% and 84.1%, respectively (kappa = 0.71). For high‐risk tumours (T3 ≥ 5 mm and T4), CTC showed an accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of 82.7%, 86% and 80%, respectively (kappa = 0.65). The accuracy of N‐stage evaluation was 69.3%, the sensitivity 74% and the specificity 67.1% (kappa = 0.37).

Conclusion

CTC provides accurate information for the assessment of tumour localization and T staging, allowing better surgical planning and also allows the selection of locally advanced tumours that may benefit from new treatments such as neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
Discharge medication procurement and education after kidney transplantation
Authors: Potter Lisa , Lushin Erin N. , Hofmeyer Brooke , Ensor Christopher , Wilson Nikita , Tremblay Simon , Campara Maya ,   the American Society of Transplantation Transplant Pharmacy Community of Practice
Published: June 2019

Adherence to immunosuppressant medications is a key determinant of success following organ transplantation. Medication procurement and education are precursory. In March 2018, Medicare announced a rule change interpreted to prohibit delivery of Part B‐covered immunosuppressive drugs to hospitals. A subsequent Medicare announcement clarified that immunosuppressive drug delivery to hospitals is acceptable, effective April 2019. To promulgate the perceived importance of medication delivery to hospitals among key providers of transplant discharge education, a 25‐question descriptive survey was distributed between May and July 2018 to pharmacists affiliated with each active US kidney transplant program (n = 238). Survey goals were to describe discharge medication procurement practices, discharge medication teaching practices, and attitudes toward the value of medication education. A total of 155 responses were received from 115 different transplant centers. A majority (93%) of respondents require discharge medications to be onsite prior to hospital discharge. A majority (81%) of respondents use discharge medications during medication education. Acquisition of immunosuppressant medications and their delivery to the inpatient environment prior to discharge for the purpose of medication education is a common practice, is viewed as important, and serves to enhance discharge education, ensure safe transitions of care, and encourage medication adherence.
Diagnosing synovial sarcoma by fine‐needle aspiration cytology and molecular techniques
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Wessman Sandra , Wejde Johan , Tani Edneia , Haglund Felix
Published: June 2019

Objective

Synovial sarcomas (SS) are rare soft tissue tumours defined by the SYT‐SSX fusion gene. The tumours are composed of mesenchymal cells with varying degrees of epithelial differentiation. Cytomorphological descriptive studies are limited to small series and single cases. In this study we systematically examined the cytological features of SS diagnosed at our institution.

Methods

SS diagnosed by fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) cytology at our institution between 2006 and 2018 were reviewed by a panel of senior cytopathologists. Clinical and cytopathological characteristics were categorised and described.

Results

A total of 38 SS FNAs were identified from 35 patients. The cytomorphology was uniform, presenting as highly cellular smears of clusters and individual cells with mixed round, oval and spindle cells. We frequently observed pericapillary arrangement and occasionally pink background stroma was seen. Glandular formation or epithelial components were identified in the majority of cases which on histology were subtyped as biphasic SS. Pleomorphism and mitoses were rare. Immunocytochemical analysis was frequently positive for vimentin, epithelial membrane antigen, Bcl2 and, in recent cases, TLE1. Pan‐cytokeratins and CK7 could occasionally be positive in biphasic cases. The diagnostic SYT‐SSX fusion gene was detected in all FNA specimens using polymerase chain reaction or fluorescence in situ hybridisation.

Conclusions

SS have distinct and uniform cytopathological features. Molecular genetic analysis for SYT‐SSX are invaluable for diagnosing SS with FNA and should be implemented in cytopathological laboratories that routinely perform soft tissue diagnostics.
Validity of self‐reports of drinking before injury by cause of injury and societal context among emergency department patients
Authors: Cherpitel Cheryl J. , Ye Yu
Published: June 2019

Introduction and Aims

Validity of self‐reported alcohol consumption is a topic of continued interest with mixed findings. Validity of self‐reports prior to injury is analysed among emergency department (ED) patients by cause of injury, blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and societal context.

Design and Methods

Data are on 16 196 injured patients from 23 countries in the International Collaborative Alcohol and Injury Project. The proportion of those reporting drinking within 6 h prior to injury among the 2658 BAC positive patients was analysed by injury cause (traffic, violence, falls, other), BAC level (0.01–0.079 mg%, ≥ 0.08 mg%), detrimental drinking pattern (DDP) and the International Alcohol Policy and Injury Index (IAPII).

Results

Validity averaged 92%, ranging from 85% for drivers to 95% for violence‐related injuries. Validity was significantly lower at lower BAC levels for all injuries (P < 0.01) and for violence and falls. Countries with a high DDP and those with lower IAPII scores (less restrictive alcohol policy) also appeared more likely to deny drinking which was significant for DDP for falls (P < 0.01) and for IAPII for passengers/pedestrians (P < 0.05) and violence (P < 0.05). Validity was highest for high IAPII countries, ranging from 92% to 99%.

Discussion and Conclusions

Validity of self‐report compared to breathalyzer readings at the time of admission to the ED was high, but varied by cause of injury, BAC level, country‐level detrimental drinking patterns and the restrictiveness of alcohol control policy. Findings may support the utility or self‐reports as an alternative to a quantifiable measure of BAC in the ED setting.
Dynamic ensemble models to predict distributions and anthropogenic risk exposure for highly mobile species
Authors: Abrahms Briana , Welch Heather , Brodie Stephanie , Jacox Michael G. , Becker Elizabeth A. , Bograd Steven J. , Irvine Ladd M. , Palacios Daniel M. , Mate Bruce R. , Hazen Elliott L.
Published: June 2019

Aim

Advances in ecological and environmental modelling offer new opportunities for estimating dynamic habitat suitability for highly mobile species and supporting management strategies at relevant spatiotemporal scales. We used an ensemble modelling approach to predict daily, year‐round habitat suitability for a migratory species, the blue whale (Balaenoptera musculus), and demonstrate an application for evaluating the spatiotemporal dynamics of their exposure to ship strike risk.

Location

The California Current Ecosystem (CCE) and the Southern California Bight (SCB), USA.

Methods

We integrated a long‐term (1994–2008) satellite tracking dataset on 104 blue whales with data‐assimilative ocean model output to assess year‐round habitat suitability. We evaluated the relative utility of ensembling multiple model types compared to using single models, and selected and validated candidate models using multiple cross‐validation metrics and independent observer data. We quantified the spatial and temporal distribution of exposure to ship strike risk within shipping lanes in the SCB.

Results

Multi‐model ensembles outperformed single‐model approaches. The final ensemble model had high predictive skill (AUC = 0.95), resulting in daily, year‐round predictions of blue whale habitat suitability in the CCE that accurately captured migratory behaviour. Risk exposure in shipping lanes was highly variable within and among years as a function of environmental conditions (e.g., marine heatwave).

Main conclusions

Daily information on three‐dimensional oceanic habitats was used to model the daily distribution of a highly migratory species with high predictive power and indicated that management strategies could benefit by incorporating dynamic environmental information. This approach is readily transferable to other species. Dynamic, high‐resolution species distribution models are valuable tools for assessing risk exposure and targeting management needs.
Projecting consequences of global warming for the functional diversity of fleshy‐fruited plants and frugivorous birds along a tropical elevational gradient
Authors: Nowak Larissa , Kissling W. Daniel , Bender Irene M. A. , Dehling D. Matthias , Töpfer Till , Böhning‐Gaese Katrin , Schleuning Matthias
Published: June 2019

Aim

Species in ecological communities are linked by biotic interactions. It is therefore important to simultaneously study the impacts of global warming on interdependent taxa from different trophic levels. Here, we quantify current and potential future associations of functional diversity (based on multiple traits) and functional identity (based on individual traits) between interacting taxa using projection models under climate change.

Location

A tropical elevational gradient (500–3,500 m a.s.l.) in the Manú biosphere reserve, south‐east Peru.

Methods

We investigated different scenarios of how species' elevational ranges might change under climate change based on projected future increases in mean annual temperature and current associations of species' elevational ranges with temperature. We computed the functional diversity and identity of current and potential future plant and bird communities based on morphological traits that have been shown to be important for plant–frugivore interactions. Finally, we tested for changes in the associations between projected functional diversity and identity of future plant and bird communities.

Results

Projected functional diversity of plants and birds decreased under range contraction and range shift scenarios at low elevations. At mid‐ and high elevations, functional diversity of both species groups increased most strongly under range expansion. Correspondence between plant and bird functional diversity was weakest under range contraction, while it remained strong under range expansion and shift. Similarly, the correspondence of projected plant and bird functional identity was weakest under a range contraction scenario.

Main conclusions

Our findings suggest that a scenario in which species are dispersal‐limited and sensitive to increasing temperatures is likely to cause a functional mismatch between plant and bird communities along this tropical elevational gradient. This implies that certain functional types of plants could miss avian seed dispersers in the future. Our approach of studying functional diversity of interacting taxa could be more widely applied to identify potential future mismatches between trophic levels.
β‐adrenergic modulation of discrimination learning and memory in the auditory cortex
Authors: Schicknick Horst , Henschke Julia U. , Budinger Eike , Ohl Frank W. , Gundelfinger Eckart D. , Tischmeyer Wolfgang
Published: June 2019

Despite vast literature on catecholaminergic neuromodulation of auditory cortex functioning in general, knowledge about its role for long‐term memory formation is scarce. Our previous pharmacological studies on cortex‐dependent frequency‐modulated tone‐sweep discrimination learning of Mongolian gerbils showed that auditory‐cortical D1/5‐dopamine receptor activity facilitates memory consolidation and anterograde memory formation. Considering overlapping functions of D1/5‐dopamine receptors and β‐adrenoceptors, we hypothesised a role of β‐adrenergic signalling in the auditory cortex for sweep discrimination learning and memory. Supporting this hypothesis, the β1/2‐adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol bilaterally applied to the gerbil auditory cortex after task acquisition prevented the discrimination increment that was normally monitored 1 day later. The increment in the total number of hurdle crossings performed in response to the sweeps per se was normal. Propranolol infusion after the seventh training session suppressed the previously established sweep discrimination. The suppressive effect required antagonist injection in a narrow post‐session time window. When applied to the auditory cortex 1 day before initial conditioning, β1‐adrenoceptor‐antagonising and β1‐adrenoceptor‐stimulating agents retarded and facilitated, respectively, sweep discrimination learning, whereas β2‐selective drugs were ineffective. In contrast, single‐sweep detection learning was normal after propranolol infusion. By immunohistochemistry, β1‐ and β2‐adrenoceptors were identified on the neuropil and somata of pyramidal and non‐pyramidal neurons of the gerbil auditory cortex. The present findings suggest that β‐adrenergic signalling in the auditory cortex has task‐related importance for discrimination learning of complex sounds: as previously shown for D1/5‐dopamine receptor signalling, β‐adrenoceptor activity supports long‐term memory consolidation and reconsolidation; additionally, tonic input through β1‐adrenoceptors may control mechanisms permissive for memory acquisition.
Identification and electrophysiological properties of a sphingosine‐dependent plasma membrane Ca2+ channel in Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Rodriguez‐Duran Jessica , Pinto‐Martinez Andrea , Castillo Cecilia , Benaim Gustavo
Published: June 2019

Trypanosoma cruzi is the causative agent of Chagas disease. The only two drugs accepted for the treatment of this infection are benznidazole and nifurtimox, which are of limited use in the predominant chronic phase. On the search for new drugs, the intracellular Ca2+ regulation has been postulated as a possible target, due to differences found between host cells and the parasite. The mechanisms involved in the intracellular Ca2+ regulation of T. cruzi have been partially elucidated. However, nothing is known about a putative channel responsible for the Ca2+ entry into this parasite. In contrast, in Leishmania spp., a closely related hemoflagelate, a sphingosine‐activated plasma membrane Ca2+ channel has been recently described. The latter resembles the L‐type voltage‐gated Ca2+ channel present in humans, but with distinct characteristics. This channel is one of the main targets concerning the mechanism of action of miltefosine, the unique oral drug approved against leishmaniasis. In the present work, we describe for the first time, the electrophysiological characterization of a sphingosine‐activated Ca2+ channel of T. cruzi by reconstituting plasma membrane vesicles into giant liposomes and patch clamp. This channel shares some characteristic as activation by Bay K8644 and inhibition by channel blockers such as nifedipine. However, the T. cruzi channel differs from the L‐type VGCC in its activation by sphingosine and/or miltefosine. Albeit the conductance for each, Ba2+, Ca2+ and Sr2+ was similar, the parasite channel appears not to be voltage dependent. A gene that presents homology in critical amino acids with its human ortholog Ca2+ channel was identified.
The C‐terminal flexible region of branched‐chain polyamine synthase facilitates substrate specificity and catalysis
Authors: Hidese Ryota , Toyoda Masataka , Yoshino Ken‐ichi , Fukuda Wakao , Wihardja Gita Adhirani , Kimura Seigo , Fujita Junso , Niitsu Masaru , Oshima Tairo , Imanaka Tadayuki , Mizohata Eiichi , Fujiwara Shinsuke
Published: June 2019

Branched‐chain polyamine synthase (BpsA) catalyzes sequential aminopropyl transfer from the donor, decarboxylated S‐adenosylmethionine (dcSAM), to the acceptor, linear‐chain polyamine, resulting in the production of a quaternary‐branched polyamine via tertiary branched polyamine intermediates. Here, we analyzed the catalytic properties and X‐ray crystal structure of Tth‐BpsA from Thermus thermophilus and compared them with those of Tk‐BpsA from Thermococcus kodakarensis, which revealed differences in acceptor substrate specificity and C‐terminal structure between these two enzymes. To investigate the role of the C‐terminal flexible region in acceptor recognition, a region (QDEEATTY) in Tth‐BpsA was replaced with that in Tk‐BpsA (YDDEESSTT) to create chimeric Tth‐BpsA C9, which showed a severe reduction in catalytic efficiency toward N4‐aminopropylnorspermidine, but not toward N4‐aminopropylspermidine, mimicking Tk‐BpsA substrate specificity. Tth‐BpsA C9 Tyr346 and Thr354 contributed to discrimination between tertiary branched‐chain polyamine substrates, suggesting that the C‐terminal region of BpsA recognizes acceptor substrates. Liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry analysis on a Tk‐BpsA reaction mixture with dcSAM revealed two aminopropyl groups bound to two of five aspartate/glutamate residues (Glu339, Asp342, Asp343, Glu344, and Glu345) in the C‐terminal flexible region. Mutating each of these five amino acid residues to asparagine/glutamine resulted in a slight decrease in activity. The quadruple mutant D342N/D343N/E344Q/E345Q exhibited a severe reduction in catalytic efficiency, suggesting that these aspartate/glutamate residues function to receive aminopropyl chains. In addition, the X‐ray crystal structure of the Tk‐BpsA ternary complex bound to N4‐bis(aminopropyl)spermidine revealed that Asp126 and Glu259 interacted with the aminopropyl moiety in N4‐aminopropylspermidine.
Proportional/nonproportional constant/variable amplitude multiaxial notch fatigue: cyclic plasticity, non‐zero mean stresses, and critical distance/plane
Authors: Faruq N. Zuhair , Susmel Luca
Published: June 2019

This paper deals with the formulation and experimental validation of a novel fatigue lifetime estimation technique suitable for assessing the extent of damage in notched metallic materials subjected to in‐service proportional/nonproportional constant/variable amplitude multiaxial load histories. The methodology being formulated makes use of the Modified Manson‐Coffin Curve Method, the Shear Strain–Maximum Variance Method, and the elasto‐plastic Theory of Critical Distances, with the latter theory being applied in the form of the Point Method. The accuracy and reliability of our novel fatigue lifetime estimation technique were checked against a large number of experimental results we generated by testing, under proportional/nonproportional constant/variable amplitude axial‐torsional loading, V‐notched cylindrical specimens made of unalloyed medium‐carbon steel En8 (080M40). Specific experimental trials were run to investigate also the effect of non‐zero mean stresses as well as of different frequencies between the axial and torsional stress/strain components. This systematic validation exercise allowed us to demonstrate that our novel multiaxial fatigue assessment methodology is remarkably accurate, with the estimates falling within an error factor of 2. By modelling the cyclic elasto‐plastic behaviour of metals explicitly, the design methodology being formulated and validated in the present paper offers a complete solution to the problem of estimating multiaxial fatigue lifetime of notched metallic materials, with this holding true independently of sharpness of the stress/strain raiser and complexity of the load history.
Perioperative dental screening and treatment in patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgery and interventional cardiovascular procedures. A consensus report based on RAND/UCLA methodology
Authors: Cotti E. , Cairo F. , Bassareo P. P. , Fonzar F. , Venturi M. , Landi L. , Parolari A. , Franco V. , Fabiani C. , Barili F. , Di Lenarda A. , Gulizia M. , Borzi M. , Campus G. , Musumeci F. , Mercuro G.
Published: June 2019

Aim

To reach a consensus on a consistent strategy to adopt when screening patients for dental/periodontal infections and on the feasibility of providing dental treatment before cardiothoracic surgery, cardiovascular surgery or other cardiovascular invasive procedures.

Methodology

A panel of experts from six Italian scientific societies was created. The deliberations of the panel were based on the RAND method. From an initial systematic literature review, it became clear that a consensually validated protocol for the reproducible dental screening of patients awaiting cardiac interventions was considered mandatory by professionals with expertise in the dental, cardiologic and cardiac surgery areas. However, a systematic review also concluded that the treatment options to be provided, their prognosis and timing in relation to the physical condition of patients, had never been defined. Following the systematic review, several fundamental questions were generated. The panel was divided into two working groups each of which produced documents that addressed the topic and which were subsequently used to generate a questionnaire. Each member of the panel completed the questionnaire independently, and then, a panel discussion was held to reach a consensus on how best to manage patients with dental/periodontal infections who were awaiting invasive cardiac procedures.

Results

A high level of agreement was reached regarding all the items on the questionnaire, and each of the clinical questions formulated were answered. Three tables were created which can be used to generate a useful tool to provide standardized dental/periodontal screening of patients undergoing elective cardiovascular interventions and to summarize both the possible oral and cardiovascular conditions of the patient and the timing available for the procedures considered.

Conclusions

Upon publication of this consensus document, the dissemination of the information to a wide dental and cardiac audience should commence. The authors hope that this consensus will become a model for the development of a dedicated protocol, ideally usable by heart and dental teams in the pre‐interventional preparation phase.
Domain‐specific CD6 monoclonal antibodies identify CD6 isoforms generated by alternative‐splicing
Authors: Santos Rita F. , Oliveira Liliana , Brown Marion H. , Carmo Alexandre M.
Published: June 2019

The characterization of the architecture, structure and extracellular interactions of the CD6 glycoprotein, a transmembrane receptor expressed in medullary thymocytes and all mature T‐cell populations, has been enhanced by the existence of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that specifically recognize the various scavenger receptor cysteine‐rich (SRCR) domains of the ectodomain. Using engineered isoforms of CD6 including or excluding each of the three SRCR domains, either expressed at the membranes of cells or in soluble forms, we provide conclusive and definitive evidence that domain 2 of CD6, previously not identifiable, can be recognized by the CD6 mAbs OX125 and OX126, and that OX124 targets domain 3 and can block the interaction at the cell surface of CD6 with its major ligand CD166. Alternative splicing‐dependent CD6 isoforms can now be confidently identified. We confirm that following T‐cell activation there is a partial replacement of full‐length CD6 by the CD6Δd3 isoform, which lacks the CD166‐binding domain, and we find no evidence for the expression of other CD6 isoforms at the mRNA or protein levels.
Effect of Ca and B incorporation into silicon oxycarbide on its microstructure and phase composition
Authors: Xie Fangtong , Gonzalo‐Juan Isabel , Breitzke Hergen , Fasel Claudia , Trapp Maximilian , Buntkowsky Gerd , Kleebe Hans‐Joachim , Riedel Ralf , Boccaccini Aldo R. , Ionescu Emanuel
Published: June 2019

Ca‐ and/or B‐modified silicon oxycarbides were synthesized via pyrolysis of suitable polysilsesquioxane‐based single‐source precursors. Their polymer‐to‐ceramic transformation was investigated with thermogravimetric analysis, coupled with in situ evolved gas analysis. The prepared silicon oxycarbides were investigated with respect to their crystallization behavior, network architecture, and chemical compositions. The network connectivity in silicon oxycarbides can be affected/tuned upon using two different “tools”: (a) first, the use of network modifiers, such as Ca in our study, leads to a slight depolymerization of the network via generation of a small amount of Q3 sites; (b) second, the modification of silicon oxycarbide with B/Ca leads to a decrease of the carbon content in the network and thus to a significant decrease of its connectivity. Using these two different effects, the network connectivity in silicon oxycarbides can be finely tuned.
The impact of compassionate care education on nurses: A mixed‐method systematic review
Authors: Coffey Alice , Saab Mohamad M. , Landers Margaret , Cornally Nicola , Hegarty Josephine , Drennan Jonathan , Lunn Cora , Savage Eileen
Published: June 2019

Aims

To identify, describe, and summarize evidence from quantitative, qualitative, and mixed‐method studies conducted to prepare nurses and nursing students to lead on and/or deliver compassionate care.

Design

Mixed‐method systematic review.

Data sources

CINAHL, Medline, PsychINFO, and SocINDEX (January 2007–February 2018).

Review methods

Papers were screened by two independent reviewers using an online screening tool and data were extracted using a standardized data extraction table. Parallel‐results convergent synthesis was used to synthesize evidence from included qualitative, quantitative, and mixed‐method studies. Quality appraisal and risk of bias assessment were conducted.

Results

Fifteen studies were included with three main themes and six sub‐themes: (a) programme impact (impact on ward‐level and senior nurses and impact on nursing students and educators); (b) programme characteristics (characteristics leading to positive outcomes and characteristics leading to negative outcomes); and (c) programme implementation (implementation barriers and implementation facilitators). Compassionate care education programmes helped enhance nurses' ability to engage in reflective practice, deal with clinical challenges, and gain confidence. The importance of nurturing compassionate care delivery in nursing education was highlighted in the literature. Various nursing‐level, patient‐level, and organizational barriers to compassionate care delivery were identified.

Conclusion

The impact of compassionate care educational programmes on nurses was predominantly positive. Further evaluation of the long‐term impact of these programmes on nurses, patients, and organizations is warranted.

Impact

Optimal delivery of compassionate care can be achieved by building organizational infrastructures that support nurses from all levels to attend education programmes and lead on compassionate care delivery.
Comparison of effectiveness and drug cost between dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor and biguanide as the first‐line anti‐hyperglycaemic medication among Japanese working generation with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ihana‐Sugiyama Noriko , Sugiyama Takehiro , Tanaka Hirokazu , Ueki Kohjiro , Kobayashi Yasuki , Ohsugi Mitsuru
Published: June 2019

Aims and Objectives

Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor (DPP4i) is widely used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in several countries such as Japan, whereas biguanide (BG; mostly metformin) is recommended as a first‐line antidiabetic medication in many countries according to evidence mainly from Western countries. Although previous studies reported that DPP4i may be more efficacious for East Asians, direct comparisons of effectiveness and cost between DPP4i and BG have never been conducted in East Asia.

Methods

We extracted claims and medical check‐up data (observation period from January 2010 to March 2016) of adult patients under 70 years old with T2DM who received DPP4i or BG as first‐line antidiabetic drugs. Changes in HbA1c and BMI before and 2 years after the first prescription and annual cost of antidiabetic medication during the second year were compared between the DPP4i and BG groups.

Results

We extracted 1034 patients who received DPP4i and 365 patients who received BG as the first antidiabetic medication (male sex, 83.0% and 84.9%; HbA1c (mean [SD]), 7.7 [1.4]% and 7.9 [1.4]%; BMI, 26.6 [4.5] kg/m2 and 28.1 [4.3] kg/m2). After propensity score matching, changes in HbA1c and BMI were not significantly different between the groups (HbA1c, −0.67% vs −0.80% [P = .28]; BMI, −0.3 kg/m2 vs −0.4 kg/m2 [P = .42]). Annual cost of antidiabetic drugs was significantly higher in the DPP4i group (US $458.7 vs 273.3 [P < .001]). Many patients continued each medication at the follow‐up visit (78.3% of the DPP4i group and 73.7% of the BG groups).

Conclusions

The first antidiabetic prescription for the patient was mostly continued thereafter. BG may be recommendable as the first‐line medication for patients with T2DM, especially for middle‐aged, male population with greater BMI. It is worth addressing the discrepancy between practice in Japan and that recommended in international guidelines.
The juxtamembrane domains ofArabidopsisCERK1, BAK1, and FLS2 play a conserved role in chitin‐induced signaling
Authors: Zhou Qi , Liu Jun , Wang Jingyi , Chen Sufen , Chen Lijuan , Wang Jinfa , Wang Hong‐Bin , Liu Bing
Published: June 2019

Arabidopsis thaliana CERK1 is an essential receptor‐like kinase in the chitin signal transduction pathway. The juxtamembrane (JM) domain of CERK1 regulates the kinase activity of this receptor. Here we demonstrate that the JM domains of LysM‐RLKs, CERK1, and OsCERK1 play a functionally conserved role in the activation of chitin signaling in Arabidopsis. The C‐termini of the JM domains of both CERK1 and OsCERK1 are indispensable for their function. Moreover, after replacing the JM domain of CERK1 with that of the nonhomologous RLK, BAK1 (CJBa) or FLS2 (CJFl), the chimeric CERK1 receptors maintained their ability to activate chitin signaling in Arabidopsis. Interestingly, the heterologous expression of CJBa and CJFl did not induce cell death in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. These results suggest that the JM domains of CERK1, BAK1, and FLS2 play a conserved role in chitin signaling via a mechanism not related to sequence homology.
Determinants of nurses’ willingness to receive vaccines: Application of the health belief model
Authors: Chen I‐Hui , Hsu Shih‐Min , Wu Jiunn‐Shyan Julian , Wang Yu‐Tsang , Lin Yen‐Kuang , Chung Min‐Huey , Huang Pin‐Hsuan , Miao Nae‐Fang
Published: June 2019

Aims and objectives

To assess the willingness of nurses to receive vaccines as recommended by Taiwan's “Immunization Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel” (IRHCP), as well as the factors associated with their willingness.

Background

Immunisation for healthcare personnel (HCP) is a means of reducing pathogen transmission. Also, vaccinating HCP reduces personnel and labour costs during an epidemic.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted. A self‐administered questionnaire survey targeting nurses working in various service units at three hospitals was used. In total, 413 nurses completed the questionnaire. The main outcome measure was the willingness to receive vaccines recommended by the IRHCP, and the variables we assessed included knowledge regarding the IRHCP, individual perceptions (perceived risk of contracting the infection, perceived severity of the infection and perceived transmissibility after disease onset), perceived benefits and barriers to the vaccination, cues to the vaccination and demographics. This study followed the STROBE checklist for reporting this study.

Results

The willingness of nurses to receive vaccines recommended by the IRHCP was high; the highest level of willingness was for the hepatitis B vaccine. The nurses’ willingness to receive various vaccines recommended by the IRHCP was predicted by the knowledge regarding the IRHCP and perceived transmissibility after disease onset. Except the diphtheria–tetanus–acellular pertussis vaccine, perceived benefits and perceived barriers were also predictors of the willingness to receive vaccines.

Conclusions

Our results showed that interventions focusing on increasing the knowledge regarding the IRHCP and perceived transmissibility after disease onset, emphasising the benefits of the vaccination and reducing the perceived barriers to the vaccination are needed to increase nurses’ willingness to receive vaccines.

Relevance to clinical practice

It is suggested using health education courses and mass media broadcasts at the individual and societal levels to raise awareness regarding the benefits of vaccines and enhance nurse’ confidence in vaccination programs.