bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiplex loop‐mediated isothermal amplification assay for the identification of three major whitefly species in the greenhouse
Authors: Suzuki R. , Tanaka H. , Suzuki K. , Fukuta S. , Kato S. , Ohno T.
Published: May 2018

A multiplex loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (mLAMP) assay was developed for the identification of three species of whitefly, Trialeurodes vaporariorum, Bemisia tabaci Middle East‐Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1) and Mediterranean (MED), major pests in the greenhouse. Each of the specific LAMP primer sets was designed based on the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (mtCOI) gene sequence. The mLAMP reactions using primer mixtures labelled with fluorescent dye were performed at 63°C for 60 min and centrifuged with polyethyleneimine. Thus, T. vaporariorum, MEAM1 and MED were clearly identified by the colour precipitates under UV light. The mLAMP procedure described in this study is cost‐effective and can be performed in the field not only in the laboratory, because this method is a single analysis and does not need a special gene amplification device.
An alternative hypothesis explains outbreaks of conifer‐feeding budworms of the genus Choristoneura (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in Canada
Authors: White T. C. R.
Published: May 2018

This alternative hypothesis states that forests attacked by spruce budworms are, for most of the time, nutritional deserts. During these periods, endemic populations persist in scattered “refuges” on a few stressed trees, but this situation changes once trees in a forest become over‐mature and start to senesce. Senescence causes protein in their mature needles to break down at an accelerating rate, releasing higher levels of soluble amino acids into the phloem thereby increasing the quality of food for larval budworms. Additional stress such as drought that damages or kills the trees’ feeding roots accelerates this process and further elevates the quality of the food for larvae. All the foliage in the forest then become nutritious enough to support high numbers of budworm larvae so that nearly all the young larvae of moths dispersing from refuges into the surrounding newly stressed trees survive and an outbreak ensues.
Field evaluation of the susceptibility of mill and table olive varieties to egg‐laying of olive fly
Authors: Quesada‐Moraga Enrique , Santiago‐Álvarez Cándido , Cubero‐González Salvador , Casado‐Mármol Germán , Ariza‐Fernández Alfonso , Yousef Meelad
Published: May 2018

The susceptibility of 20 widely distributed mill and table olive varieties to Bactrocera oleae (Rossi) as affected by irrigation, and fruit diameter and oil content was evaluated in a 3‐year trial in Southern Spain. Bactrocera oleae was bivoltine life cycle in the experimental site, with significant differences among population size throughout the study. Even though the olive fruit fly damaged all varieties, significant differences in susceptibility were detected. Among the mill olive varieties “Nevadillo Blanco de Jaén” was the most susceptible, with average infestation levels ranging between 6.7% and 52.2% and between 10.3% and 69.2% under rainfed and irrigated conditions, respectively, and “Arbequina” was the least susceptible, with average infestation levels ranging between 0.6% and 12.7% and between 2.3% and 18.5% under rainfed and irrigated conditions, respectively. Among the table olive varieties, “Gordal Sevillana,” “Ascolana Tenera” and “Ocal” were the most susceptible (with average infestation levels reaching 39.7%, 36.5% and 33.3%, respectively), while “Callosina” was the least susceptible (with infestation levels of only 8.4%). Irrigation tended to promote both B. oleae infestation and its earlier occurrence compared to the rainfed condition. Even though the diameter and oil content were positively correlated with B. oleae fruit infestation (correlation coefficients ranged between 0.5 and 0.95), the present work reveals that other yet‐unknown factors may influence B. oleae oviposition preferences. The results of this study can be useful for breeding programmes to develop olive varieties resistant to B. oleae and provide key information for wide‐area olive fly pest management decisions.
Acceptability and suitability of Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) for Cotesia icipe Fernandez‐Triana & Fiaboe on amaranth
Authors: Agbodzavu Mawufe Komi , Gikungu Mary , Lagat Zipporah Osiemo , Rwomushana Ivan , Ekesi Sunday , Fiaboe Komi Kouma Mokpokpo
Published: May 2018

The beet armyworm Spodoptera exigua (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a polyphagous insect that is distributed worldwide and was recently reported as an important pest on African indigenous vegetables. Cotesia icipe Fernandez‐Triana & Fiaboe (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a recently described parasitoid, reported from various Afrotropical countries. This work investigated the performance of C. icipe on S. exigua infesting Amaranthus dubius Mart. ex Thell. under laboratory conditions. Cotesia icipe was aggressive on the host and successfully oviposited on S. exigua with 70% of parasitoid females ovipositing after 2 hr of exposure. Parasitoid densities significantly affected the parasitism rate and the nonreproductive larval mortality. Parasitism rate was 9.7 ± 0.8% and 59.5 ± 3.1% for a single and cohort of five females released, respectively, when offered 50 host larvae. The cohort female release resulted in significantly higher larval nonreproductive mortality than the single release. However, there was no significant difference between parasitoid release densities in regard to pupal nonreproductive mortality. The larval and pupal mortalities in the presence of C. icipe were significantly higher than the natural mortalities at both parasitoid release densities. The parasitoid sex ratio was female‐biased for the cohort females but balanced when a single female was released. The hind tibia and forewing lengths were not affected by the density of female parasitoids but there were variations according to sex. The implication of these findings on the potential use of C. icipe for biological control of S. exigua in amaranth production systems is discussed.
The 2017 U.S. Hypertension Guidelines: What Is Important for Older Adults?
Authors: Cushman William C. , Johnson Karen C.
Published: May 2018

See related editorial by Stott and Applegate
Effect of non‐IFRS earnings reporting guidelines on underlying earnings reporting quality: The case of Australian listed firms
Authors: Yang Yiru , Abeysekera Indra
Published: May 2018

This study investigates Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) 200 firms in the post–Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) period (2011–2014) to examine how listed firms follow the non–International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) earnings reporting guidelines issued by ASIC to communicate underlying earnings reporting quality. We find that firms that do not comply with the ASIC guidelines have lower underlying earnings reporting quality than do firms that comply with these guidelines. Firms that do not follow the ASIC guidelines are found to exclude income‐increasing underlying earnings adjustments to make underlying earnings appear more profitable than IFRS earnings when they miss earnings targets or make current losses, and that they report underlying earnings opportunistically by excluding recurring expenses that persist into future operating earnings. Unlike ASIC non‐compliance firms, ASIC compliance firms attempt to act as responsible reporters by reporting underlying earnings in a responsible manner to demonstrate a judicious use of discretion in informing shareholders. Further, we find that underlying earnings reported by non‐compliance firms are less value‐relevant than underlying earnings reported by compliance firms.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy and Women's Health Promotion
Authors: Lawson Samantha , Sacks Ashley
Published: May 2018

Pelvic floor dysfunction is defined as abnormal function of the pelvic floor and includes conditions that can have significant adverse impacts on a woman's quality of life, including urinary incontinence (stress, urge, and mixed), fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, sexual dysfunction, diastasis recti abdominis, pelvic girdle pain, and chronic pain syndromes. Women's health care providers can screen for, identify, and treat pelvic floor dysfunction. This article examines the case of a woman with multiple pelvic‐floor‐related problems and presents the evidence for the use of pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) for pregnancy‐related pelvic floor dysfunction. PFPT is an evidence‐based, low‐risk, and minimally invasive intervention, and women's health care providers can counsel women about the role that PFPT may play in the prevention, treatment, and/or management of pelvic floor dysfunction.
Midwifery Management of Pregnant Women Who Are Obese
Authors: Reither Margi , Germano Elaine , DeGrazia Michele
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Obesity is associated with increased risks for adverse health outcomes during and after pregnancy in both the woman with obesity and her infant. This study was designed to investigate midwifery management of pregnant women with obesity.

Methods

Certified midwives and certified nurse‐midwives who were members of the American College of Nurse‐Midwives were sent a survey. The survey instrument was divided into 4 sections: demographic characteristics; practice guidelines and protocols; the role of the 2015 Levels of Maternal Care guidelines for referral, including transfer to a higher level of care; and factors that influence management of pregnant women with obesity. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data.

Results

In a sample of 546 midwives, 87% of respondents reported observing an increase in perinatal complications associated with obesity. Midwives reported increasing discomfort with the care of pregnant women with obesity as body mass index (BMI) increased. For pregnant women with extreme obesity, the respondents reported less frequent use of physiologic birth guidelines only and increased use of interventions, referral to physician care, and transfer to a higher level of care. Approximately half (270, 49.5%) reported having a guideline that addressed the care of women with obesity. Of these, 145 midwives (53.7%) reported that extreme obesity was the BMI threshold for identifying an increased or high risk for perinatal complications. Sixty percent (339) of midwives who participated requested guidance for management of laboring women who are obese.

Discussion

This study provides a greater understanding of midwifery management practices when caring for women with obesity and opportunities to improve care. The results suggest that midwifery management alters with increased BMI, specifically in the care of women with extreme obesity. Suggestions for future study include research on management of pregnant women with obesity and extreme obesity with outcome data examining management strategies that provide safe, satisfying care.
Development and feasibility testing of an avatar‐based education application for patients with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Tongpeth Jintana , Du Hui Yun , Clark Robyn A.
Published: May 2018

Aims

To develop and evaluate an interactive, avatar‐based education application, for improving patients’ knowledge of, and response to, acute coronary syndrome (ACS) symptoms.

Background

A patient's ability to recognise and respond to the symptoms of ACS is imperative for seeking timely medical intervention. Innovative patient education interventions are needed to support patient education and patient self‐care.

Methods

Participatory action research methods were used to engage consumers with cardiac and information technology (IT) experts to develop an avatar‐based education application. The avatar‐based education application was developed according to evidence‐based guidelines. The effect on ACS knowledge was evaluated in a group of ten patients with ACS.

Results

In total, 10 consumers with ACS and 12 cardiovascular clinical and IT experts participated in the designing and development of the education application. An additional 10 consumers (mean age was 52.2 ± 10.4 years) were recruited for testing the feasibility of the application on improving ACS knowledge. A high level (87.3%) of satisfaction was reported with a 15.7% increase in the knowledge subscale score of the ACS Response Index and 25.7% increase in belief scores, while symptom recognition scores increased by 24.2%.

Conclusion

An avatar‐based application for heart attack education is feasible and has the potential to support patient education by enhancing engagement and improving health literacy. These outcomes will provide preliminary data for an effectiveness trial.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses frequently experience obstacles in providing patient education, such as health literacy and language barriers. Utilising avatar‐based technology could potentially support the delivery of patient education. Involving consumers in the development these innovative educational tools is essential. Consumer participation in design has improved the engagement, satisfaction and outcomes of our app.
The association of sociodemographic factors and needs of haemodialysis patients according to Maslow's hierarchy of needs
Authors: Shih Chiung‐Yu , Huang Chiu‐Ya , Huang Mei‐Lun , Chen Chyong‐Mei , Lin Chih‐Ching , Tang Fu‐In
Published: May 2018

Aim

To explore the association between the sociodemographic factors and the needs of patients undergoing haemodialysis in Taiwan.

Background

Concomitant discomfort, including physical and mental aspects, affects the patients’ quality of life and their willingness to undergo haemodialysis. Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a well‐known tool to assess different levels of human needs.

Method

We conducted a small‐scale cross‐sectional observational study using a structured needs assessment questionnaire on 159 patients from the Taipei Veterans General Hospital haemodialysis unit.

Results

The overall mean scores of physical, mental, spiritual, other needs and needs in relation to medical staff care were 4.0 ± 0.8, 3.2 ± 0.8, 2.7 ± 1.0, 3.1 ± 0.9 and 4.1 ± 0.7, respectively. The results showed that the patients’ highest need was in relation to medical staff care, followed by physical needs. Further analysis showed that patients who are still employed during the treatment process have higher mental, spiritual and other needs. Patient who is financially supported by their family has higher physical needs. Patients taken care of by paid caregivers have lower spiritual needs and other needs. This is also the same with patients who are religious as opposed to those who are nonreligious. Patients who have attained tertiary education have higher other needs compared with patients who have only achieved up to primary or secondary education.

Conclusion

The study is the first in Taiwan to identify and quantify the needs of patients undergoing haemodialysis. When the needs of the patients are identified in relation to their sociodemographic factors, the medical staff can give the appropriate treatment in order to meet the needs and improve the patients’ well‐being.

Relevance to clinical practice

Healthcare providers should not only focus on the patients’ physiological needs, but should determine and address their other needs in various aspects in order to improve the quality and efficacy of the dialysis care process.
Nursing care providers’ perceptions on their role contributions in patient care: An integrative review
Authors: Kusi‐Appiah Elizabeth , Dahlke Sherry , Stahlke Sarah
Published: May 2018

Aims and objectives

To explore registered nurses’, licensed practical nurses’ and healthcare aides’ perceptions of their own and each other's role contributions.

Background

In response to contemporary economic and political pressures, healthcare institutions across the world have endeavoured to download job duties to less educated healthcare providers. As a result, nursing care is usually delivered by a team of nursing staff that have different roles. This means that there are fewer registered nurses and more licensed practical nurses and healthcare aides on nursing teams, despite evidence that increased numbers of registered nurses improve patient safety and care outcomes.

Design

This study was an integrative review using Whittemore and Knafl's stages for ensuring rigour. These stages include problem identification, literature searching, data evaluation, data analysis and presentation.

Methods

Four electronic databases were searched according to previously designed search strategies. The 14 retrieved articles were appraised using MMATs for quality. Data were extracted and analysed thematically.

Results

The findings of the integrative review revealed that registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and healthcare aides had little understanding about the roles of their fellow nursing team members and had difficulties describing their own roles. However, no studies concurrently examined registered nurses’, licensed practical nurses’ and healthcare aides’ perceptions on their own or each other's roles and little were written about licensed practical nurses.

Conclusion

More research is needed to examine the entire nursing team's perceptions about the various nursing roles.
Impact of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit oral feeding on neuropsychomotor outcomes at 9 months of corrected age in Chinese low‐birthweight preterm infants: A retrospective study
Authors: Ding Wenwen , Zhao Lijin , Sheng Nan , Ma Jiali , Zhang Ying
Published: May 2018

Aims and Objectives

To examine the changes in neuropsychomotor development and investigate the effect of feeding progression in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) on neuropsychomotor outcomes in low‐birthweight preterm infants within 9 months of corrected age.

Background

Low‐birthweight (LBW) preterm infants (<37 weeks of gestation and birthweight <2,500 g) are at a high risk for neuropsychomotor development delay. Therefore, exploring NICU practices related to neuropsychomotor development is important.

Design

This is a retrospective hospital‐based cohort study.

Methods

This study included 196 LBW preterm infants who were admitted to the NICU between January 2014–March 2016 and attended the follow‐up growth evaluation in the clinic after discharge. The neuropsychomotor development of preterm infants was assessed every 3 months to a corrected age of 9 months using the paediatric neuropsychomotor diagnostic scale (PNDS). Generalised linear mixed models (GLMM) were performed.

Results

The total PNDS scores had a downward trend, but the difference on pairwise comparison was not statistically significant. In total, 18.1%, 15.2% and 9.7% of preterm infants were examined for neuropsychomotor disorders at 3, 6 and 9 months of corrected age, respectively. The result of GLMM showed that the early initiation of oral feeding with breast milk was associated with optimal neuropsychomotor development. The first 3 months of corrected age is the critical period for neurodevelopmental disorders.

Conclusions

This study showed the importance of the early initiation of oral feeding with breast milk as early as possible within the NICU setting and highlighted the importance of close developmental follow‐up.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The early initiation of oral feeding with breast milk may be recommended to promote neuropsychomotor development of LBW preterm infants within the NICU setting. Early identification of neuropsychomotor developmental delays within the first 3 months may guide early interventions.
The effect of mobile messaging apps on cardiac patient knowledge of coronary artery disease risk factors and adherence to a healthy lifestyle
Authors: Tang Yea Hung , Chong Mei Chan , Chua Yan Piaw , Chui Ping Lei , Tang Li Yoong , Rahmat Norsiah
Published: May 2018

Aims

To determine the effect mobile messaging apps on coronary artery disease patient knowledge of and adherence to a healthy lifestyle.

Background

Due to the increasing incidence of coronary artery disease in recent years, interventions targeting coronary artery disease risk factors are urgent public priorities. The use of mobile technology in healthcare services and medical education is relatively new with promising future prospects.

Design

This study used a quasiexperimental design that included pre‐ and posttest for intervention and control groups.

Methods

The study was conducted from January–April 2017 with both intervention and control groups, in a teaching hospital in Klang Valley. Convenience sampling was used with inclusive criteria in choosing the 94 patients with coronary artery disease (intervention group: 47 patients; control group: 47 patients). The pretest was conducted as a baseline measurement for both groups before they were given standard care from a hospital. However, only the intervention group was given a daily information update via WhatsApp for 1 month. After 1 month, both groups were assessed with a posttest.

Results

The split‐plot ANOVA analysis indicates that there is a significant and positive effect of the intervention on coronary artery disease patients’ knowledge on coronary artery disease risk factors [F(1, 92) = 168.15, p < 0.001] with a large effect size ( = 0.65). The mobile messaging apps also significantly improve the patients’ adherence to a healthy lifestyle [F(1, 92) = 83.75, p < 0.001] with a large effect size ( = 0.48).

Conclusion

This study concluded that WhatsApp was an effective health intervention in increasing coronary artery disease patient's knowledge and subsequently increasing their adherence to healthy lifestyles.

Relevance to clinical practice

In clinical setting, mobile messaging apps are useful in information delivery and efficient patient monitory.
Identity leadership going global: Validation of the Identity Leadership Inventory across 20 countries
Authors: van Dick Rolf , Lemoine Jérémy E. , Steffens Niklas K. , Kerschreiter Rudolf , Akfirat Serap Arslan , Avanzi Lorenzo , Dumont Kitty , Epitropaki Olga , Fransen Katrien , Giessner Steffen , González Roberto , Kark Ronit , Lipponen Jukka , Markovits Yannis , Monzani Lucas , Orosz Gábor , Pandey Diwakar , Roland‐Lévy Christine , Schuh Sebastian , Sekiguchi Tomoki , Song Lynda Jiwen , Stouten Jeroen , Tatachari Srinivasan , Valdenegro Daniel , van Bunderen Lisanne , Vörös Viktor , Wong Sut I. , Zhang Xin‐an , Haslam S. Alexander
Published: May 2018

Recent theorizing applying the social identity approach to leadership proposes a four‐dimensional model of identity leadership that centres on leaders’ management of a shared sense of ‘we’ and ‘us’. This research validates a scale assessing this model – the Identity Leadership Inventory (ILI). We present results from an international project with data from all six continents and from more than 20 countries/regions with 5,290 participants. TheILIwas translated (using back‐translation methods) into 13 different languages (available in the Appendix S1) and used along with measures of other leadership constructs (i.e., leader–member exchange [LMX], transformational leadership, and authentic leadership) as well as employee attitudes and (self‐reported) behaviours – namely identification, trust in the leader, job satisfaction, innovative work behaviour, organizational citizenship behaviour, and burnout. Results provide consistent support for the construct, discriminant, and criterion validity of theILIacross countries. We show that the four dimensions of identity leadership are distinguishable and that they relate to important work‐related attitudes and behaviours above and beyond other leadership constructs. Finally, we also validate a short form of theILI, noting that is likely to have particular utility in applied contexts.

Practitioner points

The Identity Leadership Inventory (ILI) has a consistent factor structure and high predictive value across 20 countries and can thus be used to assess a leader's ability to manage (team and organizational) identities in a range of national and cultural contexts.

Identity leadership as perceived by employees is uniquely related to important indicators of leadership effectiveness including employees’ relationship to their team (identification and perceived team support), well‐being (job satisfaction and reduced burnout), and performance (citizenship and innovative behaviour at work).

TheILIcan be used in practical settings to assess and develop leadership, for instance, in 360‐degree feedback systems.

The short form of theILIis also a valid assessment of identity leadership, and this is likely to be useful in a range of applied contexts (e.g., those where there is a premium on cost and time or when comparing multiple leaders or multiple time points).
Effect of tongue‐palate contact mode on food transport during mastication
Authors: Iizumi T. , Yoshino M. , Kagaya H. , Hori K. , Ono T.
Published: May 2018

The physiological mechanisms underlying Stage II transport (STII), during which comminuted solid food is transported from the oral cavity into the meso‐pharynx for aggregation into a pre‐swallow bolus, have yet to be clarified. The purpose of the present study was to investigate relationships between tongue‐palate contact during mastication and incidence of STII by synchronised analysis of tongue pressure production on a hard palate and video‐endoscopic (VE) images during mastication. Tongue pressure at 5 measuring points with an ultra‐thin sensor sheet attached to the hard palate and trans‐nasal VE images while masticating corned beef was recorded for 12 healthy subjects. All recordings were divided into 2 groups: mastication with STII and without STII. Tongue pressure duration was longer at the anterior‐median part in the group with STII than in the group without STII. Integrated values of tongue pressure were greater at the anterior‐median parts and posterior circumferential part in the group with STII. Integrated values of tongue pressure per second were greater in late‐stage mastication than in early‐stage mastication in the group with STII. These results suggest that the tongue‐palate contacting at the anterior‐median and post‐circumferential parts of the hard palate is related with the incidence of STII.
Thymol inhibits oral squamous cell carcinoma growth via mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis
Authors: De La Chapa Jorge J. , Singha Prajjal Kanti , Lee Debbie R. , Gonzales Cara B.
Published: May 2018

Background

Thymol is a transient receptor potential ankyrin subtype 1 channel, (TRPA1) agonist found in thyme and oregano. Thymol has antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties; thus, thymol is added to many commercially available products including Listerine mouthwash. Thymol is also cytotoxic to HL‐60 (acute promyelocytic leukemia) cells in vitro. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of thymol against oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and its anticancer mechanism‐of‐action.

Methods

The antiproliferative effects of thymol in OSCC Cal27 cells were determined by MTS assays. Antitumor effects were evaluated in Cal27‐ and HeLa‐derived mouse xenografts. Calcium imaging, mitochondrial transmembrane potential (ΔΨm) studies, and Western blot analysis of cleaved PARP (c‐PARP) evaluated thymol's mechanism‐of‐action.

Results

Thymol had significant, long‐lasting antiproliferative effects in vitro. In vivo, thymol displayed significant antitumor effects in Cal27‐derived tumors. Thymol's anticancer effects were confirmed in HeLa‐derived xenografts demonstrating that thymol effects are not tumor‐type specific. Calcium imaging verified calcium influx in Cal27 cells that were reversed with the TRPA1 antagonist, HC030031. However, no calcium influx was seen in HeLa cells indicating that TRP channels do not regulate thymol cytotoxicity. This was confirmed using cell viability assays in which pre‐treatment with HC030031 had no effect on thymol cytotoxicity. Instead, ΔΨm studies revealed that thymol induces significant ΔΨm depolarization and apoptosis.

Conclusion

Our findings provide the first evidence of thymol's novel antitumor effects against OSCC in vivo, which do not rely on TRPA1 activity. Instead, we show that thymol induces mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis and may be efficacious against multiple cancers.
Evaluating Links Among Shyness, Peer Relations, and Internalizing Problems in Chinese Young Adolescents
Authors: Liu Junsheng , Bowker Julie C. , Coplan Robert J. , Yang Panpan , Li Dan , Chen Xinyin
Published: May 2018

This study evaluates a model linking shyness, aspects of peer relations, and internalizing problems among young adolescents in the People's Republic of China. Participants were 547 young adolescents from Shanghai, China (46% boys; Mage = 10.35 years, SD = 0.77 years) who completed peer nominations of shyness, rejection, and victimization, and self‐report measures of loneliness, depression, and friendship support. Analyses demonstrated that peer difficulties (rejection, victimization) mediated the associations between shyness and internalizing problems. However, moderated mediation analyses revealed a protective effect for highly supportive friendships, especially for boys. Findings highlight the importance of considering different types of peer experiences in studies of shy young adolescents and are discussed in terms of importance to theory and intervention in China and elsewhere.
New reference standards for pungency intensity evaluation based on human sensory differentiations
Authors: Zhang Lulu , Wang Houyin , Shi Bolin , Liu Longyun , Chen Zhongxiu , Zhao Lei
Published: May 2018

This study was conducted to establish a reference standard for pungency intensity evaluation based on the extent to which humans differentiate sensory qualities. Commercial essential oil extracted from Sichuan pepper was chosen as the reference sample. The recognition threshold, just noticeable difference, and terminal threshold were determined to obtain the Weber fraction of perceived pungency. The calculated Weber fraction was stable at 0.15 for low (0.030–0.50 mg essential oil per 1 ml) and 0.20 for moderate (0.50–1.0 mg per 1 ml) pungency. We also studied the relationship between stimulus concentration and sensory intensity via magnitude estimation method and found that the exponent of pungency was 0.71. We calculated JND (just noticeable difference) to be 25 and sensory differentiations as 12 based on the Weber‐fraction and exponent of power function, and acquired the reference standard in a 15‐cm linear scale. We also confirmed the utility of the reference standard with a panel evaluation on three pungent foods, the results of which showed favorable repeatability.

Practical applications

Sichuan cuisine and pungent food are not only tremendously popular in China, but across the world's population. There is a general lack of standards—especially standards that are applicable internationally—for evaluating pungency intensity. By far the most useful technique for sensory measurement is the direct application of rating scales for the perceived intensity of sensations. To establish a reference standard will not only provide a scientific basis for flavor design, development of pungent food products, quality control, and consumer choices, but also promote the use of Sichuan pepper and the development of related industries in China and other countries.
Molecular characterization of a new badnavirus associated with streak symptoms on enset (Ensete ventricosum, Musaceae)
Authors: Abraham Adane , Winter Stephan , Richert‐Pöggeler Katja R. , Menzel Wulf
Published: May 2018

Electron microscopy of leaf samples displaying streak symptoms from enset (Ensete ventricosum), a banana‐like plant widely cultivated in Ethiopia, showed the presence of bacilliform shaped virions as known for badnaviruses. DNA extracts subjected to rolling circle amplification (RCA), polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and cloning and sequence analysis revealed that the virus has a circular double‐stranded DNA genome of 7,163 nucleotides encoding predicted proteins of 21.5 kDa, 14.5 kDa and 202.5 kDa, a genome organization known for badnaviruses. The virus is phylogenetically most closely related to Sugarcane bacilliform Guadeloupe D virus with a nucleotide sequence identity of 77.2% at the conserved RT/RNase‐H region and 73.6% for the whole genome. Following the current species demarcation criteria, the virus should be considered as an isolate of a new species in the genus Badnavirus for which the name Enset leaf streak virus (ELSV) is suggested. Leaf samples from enset and banana were screened using virus‐specific primers, and ELSV was detected in six of 40 enset but not found in any of 61 banana samples. On the other hand, Banana streak OL virus (BSOLV) was detected from the majority (60%) of symptomatic banana samples but not from enset samples. This paper reports the first full‐genome sequence of a putative new badnavirus species infecting plants in the genus Ensete. In addition, this is the first report of the occurrence of BSOLV in Ethiopia.
Gingipains disrupt F‐actin and cause osteoblast apoptosis via integrin β1
Authors: Qiu Q. , Zhang F. , Wu J. , Xu N. , Liang M.
Published: May 2018

Background and Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the cellular mechanisms underlying gingipain‐caused changes in cell morphology and apoptosis of osteoblasts.

Material and Methods

Human calvarial osteoblasts and mouse osteoblasts MC3T3‐E1 were treated with gingipain extracts from Porphyromonas gingivalis stain W83. Apoptosis was detected with annexin V and propidium iodide flow cytometry analysis or terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick‐end labeling staining. F‐actin was determined by immunostaining. Western blotting was used to detect protein expression. Knocking down and overexpressing approaches were used to determine the role of integrin β1.

Results

Osteoblasts exposed to gingipain extracts displayed increased apoptosis, accompanied by loss of F‐actin integrity and cell shrinkage. The effects of gingipain extracts were abolished by the cysteine protease inhibitor N‐tosyl‐l‐lysyl chloromethyl‐ketone. Notably, gingipain extracts resulted in reduction of integrin β1, accompanied by diminished active RhoA whereas without effect on the total RhoA. Knockdown of integrin β1 resembled those seen in gingipain‐treated osteoblasts. By contrast, the effects of gingipain extracts were abrogated by either overexpression of integrin β1 or presence of RhoA agonist CN03.

Conclusion

Gingipain‐induced F‐actin disruption and apoptosis are mediated by the degradation of integrin β1 and inhibition of RhoA activity, which account for osteoblast apoptosis.
The directional and non‐directional associations of periodontitis with chronic kidney disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Zhao D. , Khawaja A. T. , Jin L. , Li K.‐Y. , Tonetti M. , Pelekos G.
Published: May 2018

This systematic review aimed to assess the current evidence on the directional and non‐directional associations of periodontitis with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Electronic search for observational studies on the association of periodontitis with CKD was performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, Open GREY and Cochrane library up to June 5, 2017. Two reviewers conducted study selection, data collection and assessment of methodological quality using the original and modified Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. Cohort, case‐control and cross‐sectional studies were included, which clearly defined periodontitis and CKD or reported acceptable clinical parameters of these 2 diseases in adults. Meta‐analysis was employed to estimate the pooled odds ratio on the non‐directional association and the incidence rate ratio (IRR) for the directional association. Among 2530 potential eligible articles, 47 were finally included. Most of them investigated a non‐directional association of periodontitis with CKD, including 7 case‐control studies and 38 cross‐sectional studies; 24 studies had statistical analysis on the non‐directional association and 75% of them reported significant results, which were supported further by the meta‐analysis (random: odds ratio = 2.12, P < .001; χ2 = 25.74, I2 = 88.3%). None of the studies focused on the directional association of CKD (as the exposure) with periodontitis (as the outcome), whereas 2 retrospective cohort studies explored a directional association of periodontitis (as the exposure) with CKD (as the outcome) (random: IRR=2.10, P > .05; fixed: IRR=1.76, P < .05; χ2 = 4.65, I2 = 78.3%). Overall, the high heterogeneity of studies limits the significance of these results. There is substantial evidence on the non‐directional association of periodontitis with CKD, while there are limited studies on the directional association. Well‐designed prospective studies with longer follow‐ups in representative communities are needed to clarify the directional association and enhance the quality of the evidence on this topic.
Periodontitis and dental scaling associated with pyogenic liver abscess: A population‐based case‐control study
Authors: Yeh Y.‐T. , Wang B.‐Y. , Lin C.‐W. , Yang S.‐F. , Ho S.‐W. , Yeh H.‐W. , Huang J.‐Y. , Chang Y.‐C. , Yeh C.‐B.
Published: May 2018

Background and Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between periodontitis, dental scaling (DS) and pyogenic liver abscesses (PLAs).

Material and Methods

A nationwide population‐based case‐control study was applied using data from the National Health Insurance Research Database in Taiwan. We identified and enrolled 691 PLA patients, who were individually matched by age and sex to 2764 controls.

Results

Conditional logistic regression was applied to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) in patients with exposure to periodontitis and DS before PLA. After adjusting for other confounding factors, periodontitis remained a risk factor for PLA among patients aged 20‐40 years, with an aOR of 2.31 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.37‐3.90, P = .0018). In addition, the average aOR for PLA was significantly lower among patients with one DS (aOR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.59‐0.96) and more than one DS (aOR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.39‐0.95) within 1 year before the index date.

Conclusion

According to these results, we concluded that adult patients with periodontitis aged <50 years old are more at risk for PLA than controls, particularly when they have no DS. Moreover, from 20 years of age, non‐periodontal patients subjected to at least 2 DS per year are less at risk for PLA than controls.
Identification of TOEFAZ1‐interacting proteins reveals key regulators of Trypanosoma brucei cytokinesis
Authors: Hilton Nicholas A. , Sladewski Thomas E. , Perry Jenna A. , Pataki Zemplen , Sinclair‐Davis Amy N. , Muniz Richard S. , Tran Holly L. , Wurster Jenna I. , Seo Jiwon , de Graffenried Christopher L.
Published: May 2018

The protist parasite Trypanosoma brucei is an obligate extracellular pathogen that retains its highly polarized morphology during cell division and has evolved a novel cytokinetic process independent of non‐muscle myosin II. The polo‐like kinase homolog TbPLK is essential for transmission of cell polarity during division and for cytokinesis. We previously identified a putative TbPLK substrate named Tip of the Extending FAZ 1 (TOEFAZ1) as an essential kinetoplastid‐specific component of the T. brucei cytokinetic machinery. We performed a proximity‐dependent biotinylation identification (BioID) screen using TOEFAZ1 as a means to identify additional proteins that are involved in cytokinesis. Using quantitative proteomic methods, we identified nearly 500 TOEFAZ1‐proximal proteins and characterized 59 in further detail. Among the candidates, we identified an essential putative phosphatase that regulates the expression level and localization of both TOEFAZ1 and TbPLK, a previously uncharacterized protein that is necessary for the assembly of a new cell posterior, and a microtubule plus‐end directed orphan kinesin that is required for completing cleavage furrow ingression. The identification of these proteins provides new insight into T. brucei cytokinesis and establishes TOEFAZ1 as a key component of this essential and uniquely configured process in kinetoplastids.
On the Stability of Euro Area Money Demand and Its Implications for Monetary Policy
Authors: Barigozzi Matteo , Conti Antonio M.
Published: May 2018

We employ a recent time‐varying cointegration test to revisit the usefulness of long‐run money demand equations for the ECB, addressing the issue of their instability by means of a model evaluation exercise. Building on the results, we make a twofold contribution. First, we propose a novel stable money demand equation relying on two crucial factors: a speculative motive, represented by domestic and foreign price‐earnings ratios, and a precautionary motive, measured by changes in unemployment. Second, we use the model to derive relevant policy implications for the ECB, since excess liquidity looks more useful for forecasting stock market busts than future inflation. Overall, this evidence points to (i) a possible evolution of the monetary pillar in the direction of pursuing financial stability and (ii) the exclusion of a sudden liquidity–driven inflationary burst after the exit from the prolonged period of unconventional monetary measures.
Unanticipated hospital admission in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease undergoing ambulatory noncardiac surgical procedures
Authors: Yuki Koichi , Koutsogiannaki Sophia , Lee Sandra , DiNardo James A.
Published: May 2018

Background

An increasing number of surgical and nonsurgical procedures are being performed on an ambulatory basis in children. Analysis of a large group of pediatric patients with congenital heart disease undergoing ambulatory procedures has not been undertaken.

Aims

The objective of this study was to characterize the profile of children with congenital heart disease who underwent noncardiac procedures on an ambulatory basis at our institution, to determine the incidence of adverse cardiovascular and respiratory adverse events, and to determine the risk factors for unscheduled hospital admission.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of children with congenital heart disease who underwent noncardiac procedures on an ambulatory basis in a single center. Using the electronic preoperative anesthesia evaluation form, we identified 3010 patients with congenital heart disease who underwent noncardiac procedures of which 1028 (34.1%) were scheduled to occur on an ambulatory basis. Demographic, echocardiographic and functional status data, cardiovascular and respiratory adverse events, and reasons for postprocedure admission were recorded. Univariable analysis was conducted.

Results

The unplanned hospital admission was 2.7% and univariable analysis demonstrated that performance of an echocardiogram within 6 mo of the procedure and procedures performed in radiology were associated with postoperative admission. Cardiovascular adverse event incidence was 3.9%. Respiratory adverse event incidence was 1.8%.

Conclusion

Ambulatory, noncomplex procedures can be performed in pediatric patients with congenital heart disease and good functional status with a relatively low unanticipated hospital admission rate.
Adaptation genomics: The angel is in the details
Authors: Almonte Andrew A. , Borevitz Justin O.
Published: May 2018

This article comments on: Genome‐wide signatures of flowering adaptation to climate temperature: Regional analyses in a highly diverse native range of Arabidopsis thaliana
BRAF and MEK inhibitor therapy eliminates Nestin‐expressing melanoma cells in human tumors
Authors: Doxie Deon B. , Greenplate Allison R. , Gandelman Jocelyn S. , Diggins Kirsten E. , Roe Caroline E. , Dahlman Kimberly B. , Sosman Jeffrey A. , Kelley Mark C. , Irish Jonathan M.
Published: May 2018

Little is known about the in vivo impacts of targeted therapy on melanoma cell abundance and protein expression. Here, 21 antibodies were added to an established melanoma mass cytometry panel to measure 32 cellular features, distinguish malignant cells, and characterize dabrafenib and trametinib responses in BRAFV600mut melanoma. Tumor cells were biopsied before neoadjuvant therapy and compared to cells surgically resected from the same site after 4 weeks of therapy. Approximately 50,000 cells per tumor were characterized by mass cytometry and computational tools t‐SNE/viSNE, FlowSOM, and MEM. The resulting single‐cell view of melanoma treatment response revealed initially heterogeneous melanoma tumors were consistently cleared of Nestin‐expressing melanoma cells. Melanoma cell subsets that persisted to week 4 were heterogeneous but expressed SOX2 or SOX10 proteins and specifically lacked surface expression of MHC I proteins by MEM analysis. Traditional histology imaging of tissue microarrays from the same tumors confirmed mass cytometry results, including persistence of NES‐ SOX10+ S100β+ melanoma cells. This quantitative single‐cell view of melanoma treatment response revealed protein features of malignant cells that are not eliminated by targeted therapy.
Being More Realistic About Reasons: On Rationality and Reasons Perspectivism
Authors: Littlejohn Clayton
Published: May 2018

This paper looks at whether it is possible to unify the requirements of rationality with the demands of normative reasons. It might seem impossible to do because one depends upon the agent's perspective and the other upon features of the situation. Enter Reasons Perspectivism. Reasons perspectivists think they can show that rationality does consist in responding correctly to reasons by placing epistemic constraints on these reasons. They think that if normative reasons are subject to the right epistemic constraints, rational requirements will correspond to the demands generated by normative reasons. While this proposal is prima facie plausible, it cannot ultimately unify reasons and rationality. There is no epistemic constraint that can do what reasons perspectivists would need it to do. Some constraints are too strict. The rest are too slack. This points to a general problem with the reasons‐first program. Once we recognize that the agent's epistemic position helps determine what she should do, we have to reject the idea that the features of the agent's situation can help determine what we should do. Either rationality crowds out reasons and their demands or the reasons will make unreasonable demands.
Molecular, morphological and pathogenic diversity ofSclerotinia sclerotiorumisolates from common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) fields in Argentina
Authors: Abán C. L. , Taboada G. , Spedaletti Y. , Aparicio M. , Curti R. N. , Casalderrey N. B. , Maggio M. E. , Chocobar M. O. , Salgado M. , Galván M. Z.
Published: May 2018

White mould, caused bySclerotinia sclerotiorum, is one of the most threatening fungal diseases occurring across major bean production regions worldwide. In Argentina, under favourable weather conditions, up to 100% seed yield losses occur on susceptible common bean cultivars. The aim of this study was to characterize the diversity ofS. sclerotiorumisolates from six dry bean fields in the main production area of Argentina by means of molecular, morphological (mycelium colour, number and pattern of sclerotia distribution) and pathogenic approaches. Among 116 isolates analysed, high genotypic and morphological variability was observed. A total of 52 mycelial compatibility groups (MCGs) and 59URPs (universal rice primers) molecular haplotypes were found. All theMCGs were location specific, while only 12% of theURPhaplotypes were shared among locations. The molecular analysis of variance revealed a significant differentiation among populations, with higher genetic variability within the populations analysed than among them. The aggressiveness of the isolates towards bean seedlings was assessed in the greenhouse. Most of the isolates were highly aggressive, while no variation among locations was observed. The information generated in the present study provides, for the first time, information on the variability ofS. sclerotiorumassociated with white mould in the main common bean production area in Argentina. In addition, the findings suggest the occurrence of both clonal and sexual reproduction in the populations analysed. This work contributes to the development of sustainable management strategies in bean production aimed to minimize yield losses due to white mould.