bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of anti‐hyperglycaemic effects of Pu‐erh tea
Authors: Lin Hsin‐Cheng , Lee Chien‐Tai , Yen Yea‐Yin , Chu Chiao‐Lee , Hsieh Yen‐Ping , Yang Chi‐Sheng , Lan Shou‐Jen
Published: October 2018

Pu‐erh tea was presumed to have anti‐hyperglycaemic effects with limited evidence. This study uses meta‐analysis to investigate anti‐hyperglycaemic effect of Pu‐erh tea. Five English databases and three Chinese ones were systematically searched up to July 31, 2018. Those databases were searched to identify studies containing keywords of ‘Pu‐erh’, ‘Pu'er’, ‘blood sugar’, ‘blood glucose’ and ‘hyperglycaemia’. RevMan 5 and Stata were then utilized to conduct meta‐analysis. Systematic reviews collected two mice studies with sixteen records for meta‐analysis. Meta‐analysis results showed that Pu‐erh tea has significant anti‐hyperglycaemic effect on mice. Pooled weight mean difference of blood sugar on mice studies were 71 and 116 mg dL−1 at 21st day and 28th day respectively. Meta‐regression disclosed over a longer intervention period showed that Pu‐erh tea can reduce fasting blood glucose. Secondly, a higher dose of Pu‐erh is shown to lower fasting blood glucose more significantly.
Polymorphism of the programmed death‐ligand 1 gene is associated with its protein expression and prognosis in gastric cancer
Authors: Wu Yanhua , Zhao Tiancheng , Jia Zhifang , Cao Donghui , Cao Xueyuan , Pan Yuchen , Zhao Dan , Zhang Bin , Jiang Jing
Published: October 2018

Background and Aim

While the incidence and mortality of gastric cancer (GC) remains high, and prognosis of GC remains poor, molecules in programmed death‐1 (PD‐1), programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1), and programmed death‐ligand 2 (PD‐L2) pathway are promising prognostic biomarker of GC. The polymorphisms on PD‐1, PD‐L1, and PD‐L2 may be associated with their protein expressions and affect the survival of GC patient.

Methods

Seven hundred fifty‐six GC patients who voluntarily supplied blood samples were enrolled in our study. We genotyped nine polymorphisms on PD‐1, PD‐L1, and PD‐L2, then evaluated the association of the single nucleotide polymorphisms with GC prognosis and analyzed the relationship between the PD‐1, PD‐L1, and PD‐L2 single nucleotide polymorphism genotypes and their protein expression.

Results

We found that PD‐L1 rs822336 CC genotype was independently associated with a better survival of all GC patients and those without postoperative chemotherapy (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.504, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.283–0.897 and HR = 0.385, 95% CI = 0.189–0.786). AA+AG genotype of rs2297136 in 3'UTR of the PD‐L1 was correlated with the protein expression of PD‐L1 protein both in patients overall and those without postoperative chemotherapy (P = 0.013 and P = 0.012). AA+AG genotype of rs2297136 served as an independent factor of better prognosis in patients without postoperative chemotherapy (HR = 0.348, 95% CI = 0.125–0.968).

Conclusions

Overall, PD‐L1 polymorphisms and protein expression were associated with the prognosis of patients with GC.
Prosthetic Rehabilitation with Palatal Lift/Augmentation in a Patient with Neurologic/Motor Deficit Due To Cancer Therapy for Chondrosarcoma
Authors: Asfar Midhat M. , Hutcheson Katherine A. , Won Alexander M.
Published: October 2018

This clinical report describes the prosthetic rehabilitation of a 25‐year‐old man with a history of grade II chondrosarcoma at the skull base who had undergone surgical resection and thereafter developed velopharyngeal incompetency (VPI), dysarthria, and dysphagia. Upon baseline fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES), the patient had an atypical pattern of VPI with minimal to no velar lift during speech, blow, or suck tasks, but near complete velar lift and seal during swallowing. A palatal augmentation prosthesis combined with a resilient palatal lift extension was fabricated to enhance speech by displacing the soft palate and to decrease hypernasality, while avoiding interference with bolus transport. A resilient wrought wire extension was necessary to accommodate the velar movement upon swallowing while keeping the integrity of the velar lift during speech. In conclusion, this unique combination prosthesis was able to help the patient's atypical pattern of VPI by improving speech and preserving swallowing function, which was confirmed during a post‐endoscopic evaluation.
Effects of dietary sorghum dried distiller's grains with solubles on growth performance, diet nutrient digestibility, carcass characteristics and immunity in growing rabbits
Authors: Yang Yanhong , Shen Yingchun , Pan Yuanqing , Xia Pei , Zhang Deguang , He Zhifei , Yang Jiqiong , Li Hongjun , Lu Jingzhi
Published: October 2018

Sorghum dried distiller's grains with solubles (S‐DDGS) are distillation extract residues from the ethanol fuel industry. In this experiment, two hundred 42‐day‐old rabbits were randomly allocated to five experimental diets containing 0 g/kg (control), 75, 150, 225 and 300 g/kg S‐DDGS. The experiment lasted for 4 weeks. No difference was found in the average daily feed intake (ADFI; p > 0.05). With increasing sorghum inclusion, the average daily gain (ADG) was linearly (p < 0.001) and quadratically (p = 0.039) reduced, while, conversely, the feed conversion ratio (FCR) linearly (p < 0.001) increased. Increasing the amount of S‐DDGS in the diet linearly decreased (p < 0.001) the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP) and ash. Carcass weight, carcass yield, heart and liver weights were linearly decreased by an increase in the amount of S‐DDGS added to diets (p < 0.001), but no difference was observed between the 0, 75 and 150 g/kg S‐DDGS groups (p > 0.05). Serum IL‐6, IL‐10 and SIgA linearly increased (p = 0.008) with increasing levels of S‐DDGS in the diet. Rabbits fed 0, 75 and 150 g/kg of S‐DDGS had similar IL‐6 and IL‐10 levels. Statistically significant differences in SIgA were observed between rabbits fed control diets and feed mixtures containing S‐DDGS (p < 0.01). To conclude, S‐DDGS can safely be added up to 75 g/kg, to the diet of rabbits. Increasing dietary S‐DDGS inclusion may decrease the growth performance, nutrient digestibility and carcass traits, and activate immune responses.
Social Support and Physical Activity Among American Indians in Oklahoma: Results From a Community‐based Participatory Research Study
Authors: Salvatore Alicia L. , Noonan Carolyn J. , Williams Mary B. , Wetherill Marianna S. , Jacob Tvli , Cannady Tamela K. , Standridge Joy , Grammar Mandy , Fox Jill , Wiley Andina , Spiegel Jennifer , Jernigan Valarie Blue Bird
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Little is known about the contribution of social support to physical activity (PA) behavior among American Indians (AIs). This community‐based participatory research study examined the prevalence of and associations between different types of PA social support and PA among AIs in rural Oklahoma.

Methods

Our tribal‐academic partnership surveyed AI adults (N = 513) living within the tribal jurisdictional areas of 2 tribal nations. We used the Physical Activity Social Support (PASS) scale to assess 3 types of PA social support and Poisson regression to investigate associations between PASS types and self‐reported PA behavior.

Findings

Over a third of participants perceived high levels of PA social support from friends (37%), family (35%), and overall (34%), yet only 29% reported regular PA (ie, 150 minutes or more weekly). Participants who exercised with pets/other were significantly more likely to achieve regular PA than those who exercised alone (PR 2.0, 95% CI: 1.4‐2.9). Although not significant, compared with those reporting no/low support, participants with high friend PASS (PR 1.2, 95%: CI 0.9‐1.6), medium family PASS (PR 1.2, 95% CI: 0.9‐1.7), and overall PASS (PR 1.1, 95% CI: 0.8‐1.6) were more likely to report regular PA.

Conclusions

The majority of participants did not meet current recommendations for PA behavior, which underscores the ongoing need for PA effective interventions among AIs living in rural areas. Results suggest that exercising with pets/other could be an important factor for future intervention. Further research is needed to elucidate determinants of PA and test interventions to increase PA among AIs.
Effect of an extruded animal protein‐free diet on fecal microbiota of dogs with food‐responsive enteropathy
Authors: Bresciani Francesca , Minamoto Yasushi , Suchodolski Jan S. , Galiazzo Giorgia , Vecchiato Carla G. , Pinna Carlo , Biagi Giacomo , Pietra Marco
Published: October 2018

Background

Dietary interventions are thought to modify gut microbial communities in healthy individuals. In dogs with chronic enteropathies, resolution of dysbiosis, along with remission of clinical signs, is expected with treatment.

Hypothesis/Objective

To evaluate changes in the fecal microbiota in dogs with food‐responsive chronic enteropathy (FRE) and in healthy control (HC) dogs before and after an elimination dietary trial with an animal protein‐free diet (APFD).

Animals

Dogs with FRE (n = 10) and HC (n = 14).

Methods

Dogs were fed the APFD for 60 days. Fecal microbiota was analyzed by Illumina 16S rRNA sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

A significantly lower bacterial alpha‐diversity was observed in dogs with FRE compared with HC dogs at baseline, and compared with FRE dogs after the trial. Distinct microbial communities were observed in dogs with FRE at baseline compared with HC dogs at baseline and compared with dogs with FRE after the trial. Microbial communities still were different in FRE dogs after the trial compared with HC dogs at baseline. In HC dogs, the fecal microbiota did not show a significant modification after administration of the APFD.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Our results suggest that, in FRE dogs, treatment with the APFD led to a partial recovery of the fecal microbiota by significantly increasing microbiota richness, which was significantly closer to a healthy microbiota after the treatment. In contrast, no changes were detected in the fecal microbiota of HC dogs fed the same APFD.
Sexual dimorphism and heightened conditional expression in a sexually selected weapon in the Asian rhinoceros beetle
Authors: Zinna Robert , Emlen Douglas , Lavine Laura C. , Johns Annika , Gotoh Hiroki , Niimi Teruyuki , Dworkin Ian
Published: October 2018

Among the most dramatic examples of sexual selection are the weapons used in battles between rival males over access to females. As with ornaments of female choice, the most “exaggerated” sexually selected weapons vary from male to male more widely than other body parts (hypervariability), and their growth tends to be more sensitive to nutritional state or physiological condition compared with growth of other body parts (“heightened” conditional expression). Here, we use RNAseq analysis to build on recent work exploring these mechanisms in the exaggerated weapons of beetles, by examining patterns of differential gene expression in exaggerated (head and thorax horns) and non‐exaggerated (wings, genitalia) traits in the Asian rhinoceros beetle, Trypoxylus dichotomus. Our results suggest that sexually dimorphic expression of weaponry involves large‐scale changes in gene expression, relative to other traits, while nutrition‐driven changes in gene expression in these same weapons are less pronounced. However, although fewer genes overall were differentially expressed in high‐ vs. low‐nutrition individuals, the number of differentially expressed genes varied predictably according to a trait's degree of condition dependence (head horn > thorax horn > wings > genitalia). Finally, we observed a high degree of similarity in direction of effects (vectors) for subsets of differentially expressed genes across both sexually dimorphic and nutritionally responsive growth. Our results are consistent with a common set of mechanisms governing sexual size dimorphism and condition dependence.
Local adaptation of phenology revealed in outcrosses between spawning segments of a salmonid population
Authors: Manhard Christopher V. , Adkison Milo D. , Hard Jeffrey J. , Smoker William W. , Gharrett Anthony J.
Published: October 2018

Local adaptation has been demonstrated in spatially or temporally distant animal populations but seldom in proximate populations. To address the scale of local adaptation in Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.), two generations of hybrids between temporally separated spawning segments were made in a population of pink salmon (O. gorbuscha) and compared with controls to evaluate the genetic architecture underlying adult migration time and to test for declines in marine survival that resulted from outbreeding depression. Bayesian mixed‐effects models revealed that adult migration times in hybrid lines were intermediate to those of controls and that additive sources of genetic variation were significant, thereby indicating that local adaptation has acted on additive genetic variation in shaping this trait. Similarly, a line cross analysis revealed that an additive model best described the genetic architecture of adult migration time. In contrast, marine survival was generally similar between control and hybrid lines, which suggested that the effect of outbreeding upon marine survival was minimal at such a fine scale of genetic divergence. The implications of these results are that (a) local adaptation can facilitate genetic divergence of life history traits between proximate subpopulations; (b) artificial relaxation of natural barriers to gene flow can cause maladaptive shifts in life history traits; and (c) wild populations may harbour fine‐scale adaptive variation that supports productivity and sustainability.
Aphid effector Me10 interacts with tomato TFT7, a 14‐3‐3 isoform involved in aphid resistance
Authors: Chaudhary Ritu , Peng Hsuan‐Chieh , He Jiangman , MacWilliams Jacob , Teixeira Marcella , Tsuchiya Tokuji , Chesnais Quentin , Mudgett Mary Beth , Kaloshian Isgouhi
Published: October 2018

We demonstrated previously that expression of Macrosiphum euphorbiae salivary protein Me10 enhanced aphid reproduction on its host tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). However, the mechanism of action of Me10 remained elusive.

To confirm the secretion of Me10 by the aphid into plant tissues, we produced Me10 polyclonal antibodies. To identify the plant targets of Me10, we developed a tomato immune induced complementary DNA yeast two‐hybrid library and screened it with Me10 as bait. Immunoprecipitation and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assays were performed to validate one of the interactions in planta, and virus‐induced gene silencing was used for functional characterization in tomato.

We demonstrated that Me10 is secreted into the plant tissues and interacts with tomato 14‐3‐3 isoform 7 (TFT7) in yeast. Immunoprecipitation assays confirmed that Me10 and its homologue in Aphis gossypii, Ag10k, interact with TFT7 in planta. Further, BiFC revealed that Me10 interaction with TFT7 occurs in the plant cell cytoplasm. While silencing of TFT7 in tomato leaves did not affect tomato susceptibility to M. euphorbiae, it enhanced longevity and fecundity of A. gossypii, the non‐host aphid.

Our results suggest the model whereby TFT7 plays a role in aphid resistance in tomato and effectors of the Me10/Ag10k family interfere with TFT7 function during aphid infestation.
Catheter ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation using high‐density mapping‐guided substrate modification
Authors: Zhou Wei , Wang Long , Zhou Bo , Wu Lirong
Published: October 2018

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of substrate modification in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) patients prior to circumferential pulmonary vein isolation (CPVI).

Methods

Patients without left atrial low‐voltage and/or scar areas were defined as Group A. Patients with left atrial low‐voltage and/or scar areas underwent regular CPVI (Group B) or substrate modification after CPVI (Group C). The procedural success rate and differences in the left atrial diameter (LAD) among groups were compared at 1 year postoperatively.

Results

The procedural success rate in Group C was comparable to that in Group A (P > 0.05) and was significantly higher than that in Group B (P < 0.01). The LAD of patients in Groups A and C significantly decreased at 1 year postoperatively compared to that prior to the surgery (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference was noted in Group B.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that substrate modification could contribute to the single catheter ablation surgery success rate in patients with paroxysmal AF and narrow LAD.
Cartesian prejudice: Gender, education and authority in Poulain de la Barre
Authors: Schmitter Amy M.
Published: October 2018

The 17th century author François Poulain de la Barre was both an important contributor to the history of feminist thought and a thoroughgoing Cartesian. Poulain borrows from many of Descartes's doctrines, including his dualism, distrust of epistemic authority, accounts of imagination, and passion, and at least some aspects of his doxastic voluntarism; here, I examine how he uses a Cartesian notion of prejudice for an anti‐essentializing philosophy of women's education and the formation of the tastes, talents, and interests of individuals. “Prejudice” remains Descartes's notion of an entrenched, yet self‐imposed doxastic commitment, but also takes on the sense of social‐political group bias, founded on custom, transmitted through education, serving interests, and forming social expectations. Poulain also expands on the Cartesian notion and themes by emphasizing widespread yet unjustified social opinions in favor of the status quo in both epistemic practices and epistemic authorities, while considering how biased beliefs about sexual difference and gender identity can be internalized even by those who suffer most from them. At the same time, he shows how powerful Cartesian concepts can be for feminist methodology.
The ethics of autism
Authors: Hens Kristien , Robeyns Ingrid , Schaubroeck Katrien
Published: October 2018

The diagnosis of autism is on the rise. Autistic people, parents, professionals, and policy makers alike face important questions about the right approach toward autism. For example, there are questions about the desirability of early detection, the role and consequences of underlying cognitive theories, and whether autism is a disorder to be treated or an identity to be respected. How does the fact that autism is a heterogeneous concept affect the answers to these questions? Who has the authority or knowledge to speak on behalf of people with autism? In this paper, we describe a cluster of research topics which should be on the agenda of the emerging field of autism ethics. These topics include the very concept of autism itself, the question whether autism is primarily an identity or a disorder, the ethical questions that parents of autistic children face, metaethical questions, the ethical consequences of epistemological questions, and a cluster of questions related to social justice, stigma, and paternalism.
Short interpregnancy intervals and adverse perinatal outcomes in high‐resource settings: An updated systematic review
Authors: Ahrens Katherine A. , Nelson Heidi , Stidd Reva L. , Moskosky Susan , Hutcheon Jennifer A.
Published: October 2018

Background

This systematic review summarises association between short interpregnancy intervals and adverse perinatal health outcomes in high‐resource settings to inform recommendations for healthy birth spacing for the United States.

Methods

Five databases and a previous systematic review were searched for relevant articles published between 1966 and 1 May 2017. We included studies meeting the following criteria: (a) reporting of perinatal health outcomes after a short interpregnancy interval since last livebirth; (b) conducted within a high‐resource setting; and (c) estimates were adjusted for maternal age and at least one socio‐economic factor.

Results

Nine good‐quality and 18 fair‐quality studies were identified. Interpregnancy intervals <6 months were associated with a clinically and statistically significant increased risk of adverse outcomes in studies of preterm birth (eg, aOR ≥ 1.20 in 10 of 14 studies); spontaneous preterm birth (eg, aOR ≥ 1.20 in one of two studies); small‐for‐gestational age (eg, aOR ≥ 1.20 in 5 of 11 studies); and infant mortality (eg, aOR ≥ 1.20 in four of four studies), while four studies of perinatal death showed no association. Interpregnancy intervals of 6‐11 and 12‐17 months generally had smaller point estimates and confidence intervals that included the null. Most studies were population‐based and few included adjustment for detailed measures of key confounders.

Conclusions

In high‐resource settings, there is some evidence showing interpregnancy intervals <6 months since last livebirth are associated with increased risks for preterm birth, small‐for‐gestational age and infant death; however, results were inconsistent. Additional research controlling for confounding would further inform recommendations for healthy birth spacing for the United States.
Reproducibility of endometrial cytology using cytobrush technique and agreement for the diagnosis of subclinical endometritis between five predefined endometrial sites
Authors: Pothmann Harald , Müller Jessica , Pothmann Isabella , Tichy Alexander , Drillich Marc
Published: October 2018

Contents

The objectives of this study were as follows: (a) to assess the reproducibility of polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) cell counts at five predefined endometrial sites (corpus uteri, left horn base, right horn base, left horn tip and right horn tip) and (b) to determine the agreement for the diagnosis of subclinical endometritis (SE) between the different endometrial sites. Forty milking cows between 28 and 34 days post‐partum were enrolled for endometrial sampling using cytobrush technique. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated to evaluate the reproducibility of PMN counts at different sites. The right horn base was found to have the greatest agreement of PMN counts with the other endometrial sites (ICC = 0.66–0.85). Twenty‐eight of 40 cows showed no signs of clinical endometritis and were used for evaluation of agreement for the diagnosis of SE, analysed by using Cohen´s kappa (κ) statistics. Agreement for SE diagnosis with PMN cut‐off ≥5% was greatest between the right horn base and the right horn tip (κ = 0.84), and with PMN cut‐off ≥18% between the right horn base and left horn tip (κ = 1.0), respectively. The results indicate that the right horn base can be regarded as suitable for cytobrush sampling. The probability to detect an animal positive for SE (PMN ≥ 5%) with a single cytobrush sampling was 51.0%; thus, a second sampling is recommended to improve the accuracy.
Comparison of universal prophylaxis and preemptive approach for cytomegalovirus associated outcome measures in renal transplant patients: A meta‐analysis of available data
Authors: Caskurlu Hulya , Karadag Fatma Y. , Arslan Ferhat , Cag Yasemin , Vahaboglu Haluk
Published: October 2018

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a ubiquitous latent human virus that often causes complications in renal transplantation recipients. Universal prophylaxis and preemptive therapy are alternative strategies to prevent CMV associated complications. This meta‐analysis aimed to assess available data comparing the effectiveness of prophylaxis and preemptive therapy for preventing adverse outcomes. We searched the PubMed, Ovid, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Open Grey databases using a combination of keywords. Random effects models along with the Paule‐Mandel estimator were used to synthesize pooled effect estimates. Eleven studies were eligible for the final analysis. Universal prophylaxis was better at preventing CMV disease than the preemptive approach (risk difference = −0.0459; confidence intervals = −0.0791, −0.0127; P‐value = 0.0067; number needed to treat [NNT] = 22 [1/0.0459]; high, 79 [1/0.0127] patients; low, 13 [1/0.0791] patients). Subgroup analysis revealed a more consistent effect among studies published after 2010, with negligible between‐study heterogeneity. The NNT for universal prophylaxis to prevent one excess CMV disease concerning preemptive therapy was 16 (1/0.0630) patients (high, 25 [1/0.0394]; low, 12 [1/0.0867] patients) in the subgroup of studies performed after 2010. We detected no significant difference between the two strategies regarding acute rejection and graft loss, with negligible variability due to heterogeneity between studies. Although universal prophylaxis performed better than the preemptive strategy for the prevention of CMV disease, the high NNT value may discourage the use of CMV prophylaxis. Since there were no differences between the strategies concerning acute rejection and graft loss, this study supports the use of the preemptive approach as an alternative to universal prophylaxis.
Study on the Effectiveness of the Equity Incentive Plan of Private Enterprises in Zhuhai City: Taking TongWang Technology as an Example
Authors: Yang Junda , Xia Yun , Yang Liu , Zhang Zhongtao
Published: October 2018

The study of the effectiveness of equity incentive has always been the focus of the academic circle. Whether it is foreign or domestic, there is no conclusive evidence at present. This paper is divided into three parts: Firstly, it summarized the literature research conclusion of equity incentive at home and abroad. Secondly, the author analyzes the incentive scheme and the implementation effect of the equity incentive scheme of the same-looking science and technology as an example. Finally, the author puts forward the feasibility of improving equity incentive measures for private enterprises in China.
Aproximación a la contabilidad de gestión estratégica: una mirada a su evolución y vigencia
Authors: Martínez Hernández Rosalba , Blanco Dopico María Isabel
Published: October 2018

El propósito de este estudio es ofrecer una aproximación al estado actual de la contabilidad de gestión, con especial énfasis en la posición de la contabilidad de gestión estratégica. De acuerdo con lo anterior, el presente trabajo se enfoca en múltiples técnicas, procesos y herramientas que apoyan el desarrollo de la contabilidad de gestión en la práctica profesional. Según lo descrito, el diseño de este estudio obedece a un enfoque cualitativo de alcance descriptivo, por lo que para su desarrollo se emplea la técnica de la revisión de la literatura científica. En consecuencia, la exégesis propuesta contempla agendas de investigación elaboradas con base en el análisis de revistas especializadas, así como de documentos de diversas instituciones y asociaciones contables que reflejan la perspectiva profesional. Así, los resultados obtenidos identifican como funciones esenciales de la contabilidad de gestión, las relacionadas con la administración de costos y control, con base en herramientas y la evaluación del desempeño. Cabe aclarar que dichas funciones han sido tenidas en cuenta tradicionalmente, tanto en la literatura académica como en la práctica profesional. No obstante, los pronunciamientos de diferentes asociaciones profesionales también permiten constatar la apertura a otros aspectos vinculados con temáticas que son abordadas por otras disciplinas. En ese escenario, se alude al manejo de grandes datos (big data) y al suministro de información relativa a los riesgos, lo cual supone elementos para reflexionar en torno a la vigencia del papel de la disciplina de la contabilidad de gestión estratégica.
Efficient prediction of acoustic pulses accounting for fractional travel time
Authors: Vecherin Sergey N. , Albert Donald G.
Published: October 2018

Predicting a full waveform of an acoustic broadband signal propagating over different impedance surfaces is a stringent test of both the method used in the modeling of propagation and the surface impedance models. It has been shown that predicted waveforms might be sensitive to the fractional travel time, when the propagation time of the pulse does not equal an integer number of computational time steps. A method overcoming this issue is developed and demonstrated for different propagation conditions: a pulse propagating over a snow layer, frozen ground, and their combinations along the propagating path with homogeneous and vertically stratified atmosphere for a range of 60 m. For the numerical simulations, a conventional one-way parabolic equation with the Crank-Nicholson numerical algorithm is modified to improve computational efficiency and insure that the experimental time of arrival and spatial location of the receiver are matched exactly to the digital grids used in the simulations. The results are in a good agreement with experimental measurements and prior knowledge, and confirm that physical properties of a snow layer, sublayer ground, atmospheric conditions, and the order of range dependent ground properties affect the pulse waveforms.
Cell chirality regulates intercellular junctions and endothelial permeability
Authors: Fan Jie , Ray Poulomi , Lu Yao Wei , Kaur Gurleen , Schwarz John J. , Wan Leo Q.
Published: October 2018

The handedness of the cell regulates the permeability of blood vessels.
Evaluating the extent of a large-scale transformation in gateway science courses
Authors: Matz Rebecca L. , Fata-Hartley Cori L. , Posey Lynmarie A. , Laverty James T. , Underwood Sonia M. , Carmel Justin H. , Herrington Deborah G. , Stowe Ryan L. , Caballero Marcos D. , Ebert-May Diane , Cooper Melanie M.
Published: October 2018

An institutional effort to transform gateway science courses is evaluated using a novel approach based on course assessments.
Moisture availability in the southwest United States over the last three glacial-interglacial cycles
Authors: Wendt Kathleen A. , Dublyansky Yuri V. , Moseley Gina E. , Edwards R. Lawrence , Cheng Hai , Spötl Christoph
Published: October 2018

Caves in Death Valley National Park reveal past water table fluctuations in response to 350,000 years of global climate change.
Bacterial virulence against an oceanic bloom-forming phytoplankter is mediated by algal DMSP
Authors: Barak-Gavish Noa , Frada Miguel José , Ku Chuan , Lee Peter A. , DiTullio Giacomo R. , Malitsky Sergey , Aharoni Asaph , Green Stefan J. , Rotkopf Ron , Kartvelishvily Elena , Sheyn Uri , Schatz Daniella , Vardi Assaf
Published: October 2018

A new alga-bacterium model system sheds light on mortality factors affecting phytoplankton bloom demise and sulfur cycling.
Forceful manipulation with micro air vehicles
Authors: Estrada Matthew A. , Mintchev Stefano , Christensen David L. , Cutkosky Mark R. , Floreano Dario
Published: October 2018

Micro air vehicles are able to anchor onto a surface within their environment and tug objects with up to 40 times their mass.
Clostridioides difficile
uses amino acids associated with gut microbial dysbiosis in a subset of patients with diarrhea
Authors: Battaglioli Eric J. , Hale Vanessa L. , Chen Jun , Jeraldo Patricio , Ruiz-Mojica Coral , Schmidt Bradley A. , Rekdal Vayu M. , Till Lisa M. , Huq Lutfi , Smits Samuel A. , Moor William J. , Jones-Hall Yava , Smyrk Thomas , Khanna Sahil , Pardi Darrell S. , Grover Madhusudan , Patel Robin , Chia Nicholas , Nelson Heidi , Sonnenburg Justin L. , Farrugia Gianrico , Kashyap Purna C.
Published: October 2018

Increased amino acids in the dysbiotic gut influences susceptibility to
Clostridioides difficile
infection in mice and humans.
A Genome-Wide Epstein-Barr Virus Polyadenylation Map and Its Antisense RNA to EBNA
Authors: Majerciak Vladimir , Yang Wenjing , Zheng Jing , Zhu Jun , Zheng Zhi-Ming
Published: October 2018

Epstein-Barr virus represents an important human pathogen with an etiological role in the development of several cancers. By elucidation of a genome-wide polyadenylation landscape of EBV in JSC-1, Raji, and Akata cells, we have redefined the EBV transcriptome and mapped individual polymerase II (Pol II) transcripts of viral genes to each one of the mapped pA sites at single-nucleotide resolution as well as the depth of expression. By unveiling a new class of viral lytic RNA transcripts antisense to latent EBNAs, we provide a novel mechanism of how EBV might control the expression of viral latent genes and lytic infection. Thus, this report takes another step closer to understanding EBV gene structure and expression and paves a new path for antiviral approaches.
Group A Rotavirus VP1 Polymerase and VP2 Core Shell Proteins: Intergenotypic Sequence Variation and
In Vitro
Functional Compatibility
Authors: Steger Courtney L. , Boudreaux Crystal E. , LaConte Leslie E. , Pease James B. , McDonald Sarah M.
Published: October 2018

Group A rotaviruses (RVAs) are widespread in nature, infecting numerous mammalian and avian hosts and causing severe gastroenteritis in human children. RVAs are classified using a system that assigns a genotype to each viral gene according to its nucleotide sequence. To date, 22 genotypes have been described for the gene encoding the viral polymerase (VP1), and 20 genotypes have been described for the gene encoding the core shell protein (VP2). Here, we analyzed if/how the VP1 and VP2 proteins encoded by the known RVA genotypes differ from each other in their sequences. We also used a biochemical approach to test whether the intergenotypic sequence differences influenced how VP1 and VP2 functionally engage each other to mediate RNA synthesis in a test tube. This work is important because it increases our understanding of RVA protein-level diversity and raises new ideas about the VP1-VP2 binding interface(s) that is important for viral replication.
Human Norovirus Epitope D Plasticity Allows Escape from Antibody Immunity without Loss of Capacity for Binding Cellular Ligands
Authors: Lindesmith Lisa C. , Brewer-Jensen Paul D. , Mallory Michael L. , Yount Boyd , Collins Matthew H. , Debbink Kari , Graham Rachel L. , Baric Ralph S.
Published: October 2018

Human norovirus causes ∼20% of all acute gastroenteritis and ∼200,000 deaths per year, primarily in young children. Most epidemic and all pandemic waves of disease over the past 30 years have been caused by type GII.4 human norovirus strains. The capsid sequence of GII.4 strains is changing over time, resulting in viruses with altered ligand and antibody binding characteristics. The carbohydrate binding pocket of these strains does not vary over time. Here, utilizing unique viral sequences, we study how residues in GII.4 epitope D balance the dual roles of variable antibody binding site and cellular ligand binding stabilization domain, demonstrating that amino acid changes in epitope D can result in loss of antibody binding without ablating ligand binding. This flexibility in epitope D likely contributes to GII.4 strain persistence by both allowing escape from antibody-mediated herd immunity and maintenance of cellular ligand binding and infectivity.
First Release of the Bacterial Biobank of the Urban Environment (BBUE)
Authors: Antelo Verónica , Salazar Cecilia , Martínez Arací , D’Alessandro Bruno , Castro Marta , Betancor Laura , Barcala María Victoria , Míguez Diana , Gonnet Gastón H. , Iraola Gregorio
Published: October 2018

Metagenomics is providing a broad overview of bacterial functional diversity; however, culturing and biobanking are still essential for microbiology. Here, we present the Bacterial Biobank of the Urban Environment (BBUE), a sizable culture collection for long-term storage and characterization of the microbiota associated with urban environments relevant for public health.
Metagenomic Sequencing of Wastewater from a South African Research Farm
Authors: Lobb Briallen , Adegoke Anthony A. , Ma Kesen , Doxey Andrew C. , Aiyegoro Olayinka A.
Published: October 2018

We sequenced wastewater effluent from the Agricultural Research Council–Animal Production in South Africa that conducts studies on livestock health and farm ecology.
Thauera
,
Oscillibacter
, and
Pseudomonas
were the most abundant genera within the community.
Beta blocker therapy in recipients of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome
Authors: Gruendler Kerstin , Schwarz Christoph E , Lorenz Laila , Poets Christian F , Franz Axel R
Published: October 2018

Recipients of severe twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) may suffer from low cardiac output caused by myocardial hypertrophy and sudden postnatal drop in preload. Our hypothesis was that selective beta-1 adrenergic blockers improve cardiac function in TTTS recipients with left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. We analysed data from two TTTS recipients treated with esmolol/metoprolol. Despite intense circulatory support, both patients showed severe hypotension and tachycardia before therapy. Echocardiographic findings included hypertrophic ventricles with thickened intraventricular septum, reduced aortic valve velocity time integral (AV-VTI), left ventricular outflow tract obstruction and collapsing ventricles in systole. Beta blocker improved blood pressure as well as AV-VTI, which served as a surrogate parameter for left ventricular stroke volume, reduced heart rate and need for circulatory support. In conclusion, beta blockade may improve left ventricular function in TTTS recipients with low cardiac output due to myocardial hypertrophy.
UK neonatal resuscitation survey
Authors: Charles Elinor , Hunt Katie , Murthy Vadivelam , Harris Christopher , Greenough Anne
Published: October 2018

Background

Previous surveys have demonstrated that neonatal resuscitation practices on the delivery suite vary between UK units, particularly according to the hospital’s neonatal unit’s level. Our aim was to determine if recent changes to the Resuscitation Council guidelines had influenced clinical practice.

Methods

Surveys of resuscitation practices at UK delivery units carried out in 2012 and 2017 were compared.

Results

Comparing 2017 with 2012, initial resuscitation using air was more commonly used in both term (98% vs 75%, p<0.001) and preterm (84% vs 34%, p<0.001) born infants. Exhaled carbon dioxide monitoring was more frequently employed in 2017 (84% vs 19%, p<0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in practices according to the level of neonatal care provided by the hospital.

Conclusion

There have been significant changes in neonatal resuscitation practices in the delivery suite since 2012 regardless of the different levels of neonatal care offered.
Longitudinal changes in corneal leucocyte density in vivo following transplantation
Authors: Hau Scott , Clarke Bronagh , Thaung Caroline , Larkin Daniel F P
Published: October 2018

Aims

To prospectively evaluate the changes in corneal leucocyte density with in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) following transplantation and to determine if leucocyte density post-transplant is an indicator of graft rejection risk.

Methods

IVCM imaging of cornea pre-transplant and post-transplant at 1 week, 1, 3 and 12 months. The changes in leucocyte density associated with diagnosis, vascularisation, type of keratoplasty, topical steroid and immunosuppression treatment, allograft rejection and failure within 4 years post-transplant were analysed.

Results

Sub-basal nerve plexus total central leucocyte density (SBNP-TCLD) varied with diagnosis (p<0.001), interval post-transplant (p<0.001), degree of vascularisation (p=0.001) and rejection episodes in eyes off topical steroid (p=0.01). The highest SBNP-TCLD was found in eyes with inflammation pre-transplant. Mean 12-month SBNP-TCLD in eyes which had rejection episodes was almost double that in eyes which did not (79.0 and 39.8 cells/mm2, respectively). SBNP-TCLD >63.5 cells/mm2was associated with a higher risk of rejection within 1 year (p=0.04) and 4 years (p=0.007). Changes in leucocyte density on the donor endothelium significantly differed between penetrating keratoplasty and deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty grafts (p<0.01) and in those in which rejection episodes were observed (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Leucocyte density varies with corneal diagnosis, extent of vascularisation and interval post-transplant. Topical steroid treatment is associated with reduced leucocyte density and risk of graft rejection. Higher endothelium leucocyte density correlates significantly with previous or subsequent rejection episodes. Leucocyte density measurement by IVCM may be useful in identifying transplants at risk of rejection.
Genetic risk, incident stroke, and the benefits of adhering to a healthy lifestyle: cohort study of 306 473 UK Biobank participants
Authors: Rutten-Jacobs Loes CA , Larsson Susanna C , Malik Rainer , Rannikmäe Kristiina ,   MEGASTROKE consortium,   International Stroke Genetics Consortium, Sudlow Cathie L , Dichgans Martin , Markus Hugh S , Traylor Matthew
Published: October 2018

Objective

To evaluate the associations of a polygenic risk score and healthy lifestyle with incident stroke.

Design

Prospective population based cohort study.

Setting

UK Biobank Study, UK.

Participants

306 473 men and women, aged 40-73 years, recruited between 2006 and 2010.

Main outcome measure

Hazard ratios for a first stroke, estimated using Cox regression. A polygenic risk score of 90 single nucleotide polymorphisms previously associated with stroke was constructed at P<1×10−5to test for an association with incident stroke. Adherence to a healthy lifestyle was determined on the basis of four factors: non-smoker, healthy diet, body mass index <30 kg/m2, and regular physical exercise.

Results

During a median follow-up of 7.1 years (2 138 443 person years), 2077 incident strokes (1541 ischaemic stroke, 287 intracerebral haemorrhage, and 249 subarachnoid haemorrhage) were ascertained. The risk of incident stroke was 35% higher among those at high genetic risk (top third of polygenic score) compared with those at low genetic risk (bottom third): hazard ratio 1.35 (95% confidence interval 1.21 to 1.50), P=3.9×10−8. Unfavourable lifestyle (0 or 1 healthy lifestyle factors) was associated with a 66% increased risk of stroke compared with a favourable lifestyle (3 or 4 healthy lifestyle factors): 1.66 (1.45 to 1.89), P=1.19×10−13. The association with lifestyle was independent of genetic risk stratums.

Conclusion

In this cohort study, genetic and lifestyle factors were independently associated with incident stroke. These results emphasise the benefit of entire populations adhering to a healthy lifestyle, independent of genetic risk.
Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and risk of lung cancer: population based cohort study
Authors: Hicks Blánaid M , Filion Kristian B , Yin Hui , Sakr Lama , Udell Jacob A , Azoulay Laurent
Published: October 2018

Objective

To determine whether the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), compared with use of angiotensin receptor blockers, is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer.

Design

Population based cohort study.

Setting

United Kingdom Clinical Practice Research Datalink.

Participants

A cohort of 992 061 patients newly treated with antihypertensive drugs between 1 January 1995 and 31 December 2015 was identified and followed until 31 December 2016.

Main outcome measures

Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals of incident lung cancer associated with the time varying use of ACEIs, compared with use of angiotensin receptor blockers, overall, by cumulative duration of use, and by time since initiation.

Results

The cohort was followed for a mean of 6.4 (SD 4.7) years, generating 7952 incident lung cancer events (crude incidence 1.3 (95% confidence interval 1.2 to 1.3) per 1000 person years). Overall, use of ACEIs was associated with an increased risk of lung cancer (incidence rate 1.6v1.2 per 1000 person years; hazard ratio 1.14, 95% confidence interval 1.01 to 1.29), compared with use of angiotensin receptor blockers. Hazard ratios gradually increased with longer durations of use, with an association evident after five years of use (hazard ratio 1.22, 1.06 to 1.40) and peaking after more than 10 years of use (1.31, 1.08 to 1.59). Similar findings were observed with time since initiation.

Conclusions

In this population based cohort study, the use of ACEIs was associated with an increased risk of lung cancer. The association was particularly elevated among people using ACEIs for more than five years. Additional studies, with long term follow-up, are needed to investigate the effects of these drugs on incidence of lung cancer.
Primary care in Germany: access and utilisation—a cross-sectional study with data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP)
Authors: Greiner Gregory Gordon , Schwettmann Lars , Goebel Jan , Maier Werner
Published: October 2018

Objectives

(1) To describe the accessibility of general practitioners (GPs) by the German population; (2) to determine factors on individual and area level, such as settlement structure and area deprivation, which are associated with the walking distance to a GP; and (3) to identify factors that may cause differences in the utilisation of any doctors.

Design

Cross-sectional study using individual survey data from the representative German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP) linked with area deprivation data from the German Index of Multiple Deprivation for 2010 (GIMD 2010) and official data for settlement structure (urban/rural areas) at district level. Logistic regression models were estimated to determine the relationship of individual and area factors with the distance to a GP. Negative binomial regressions were used to analyse the association with utilisation.

Setting

Germany.

Population

n=20 601 respondents from the SOEP survey data 2009.

Primary outcome measure

Walking distance to a GP.

Secondary outcome measure

Doctor visits.

Results

Nearly 70% of the sample lives within a 20 min walk to a GP. People living in the most deprived areas have a 1.4-fold (95% CI 1.3 to 1.6) increased probability of a greater walking distance compared with the least deprived quintile, even after controlling for settlement structure and individual factors. In rural districts, people have a 3.1-fold (95% CI 2.8 to 3.4) higher probability of a greater walking distance compared with those in cities. Both area deprivation and rurality have a negative relationship with the utilisation of physicians, whereas the distance to a GP is not associated with the utilisation of physicians.

Conclusion

Walking distance to a GP depends on individual and area factors. In Germany, area deprivation is negatively correlated with the accessibility of GPs while controlling for settlement structure and individual factors. Both area factors are negatively associated with the utilisation of doctors. This knowledge could be used for future GP requirement plans.
ACL injury incidence, severity and patterns in professional male soccer players in a Middle Eastern league
Authors: Rekik Raouf Nader , Tabben Montassar , Eirale Cristiano , Landreau Philippe , Bouras Rachid , Wilson Mathew G , Gillogly Scott , Bahr Roald , Chamari Karim
Published: October 2018

Aim

To ascertain ACL injury incidence, severity (injury burden) and patterns (contact/non-contact and reinjuries) in a professional male football league in the Middle East over five consecutive seasons.

Methods

Prospective epidemiological study reporting ACL injuries in professional male soccer players in the Qatar Stars League, with complete matches/training exposure over five seasons (2013–2014 to 2017–2018), corresponding to 2243 player seasons and 729 team months.

Results

37 complete ACL ruptures occurred in 37 players during 486 951  hours of player exposure. The overall ACL injury rate was 0.076 injuries/1000  hours of exposure (season range 0.045–0.098). Injury incidence during matches and training was 0.41 and 0.04 injuries/1000  hours of exposure, respectively. Match injury incidence was greater than that of training (OR 11.8, 95%  CI 6.21 to 23.23, p<0.001). Average injury-related time-loss following ACL injury was 225 days±65 (range 116–360). Overall injury burden was 16.3 days lost/1000  hours of exposure.

Conclusion

The overall ACL injury rate in professional male soccer players competing in the Middle East was 0.076 injuries/1000  hours of exposure, match injury incidence was greater than training, while the average ACL time-loss was 225 days.