bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constitutive plasma membrane monoamine transporter (PMAT, Slc29a4) deficiency subtly affects anxiety‐like and coping behaviours
Authors: Gilman T. Lee , George Christina M. , Vitela Melissa , Herrera‐Rosales Myrna , Basiouny Mohamed S. , Koek Wouter , Daws Lynette C.
Published: May 2018

Originally, uptake‐mediated termination of monoamine (e.g., serotonin and dopamine) signalling was believed to only occur via high‐affinity, low‐capacity transporters (“uptake1”) such as the serotonin or dopamine transporters, respectively. Now, the important contribution of a second low‐affinity, high‐capacity class of biogenic amine transporters has been recognised, particularly in circumstances when uptake1 transporter function is reduced (e.g., antidepressant treatment). Pharmacologic or genetic reductions in uptake1 function can change locomotor, anxiety‐like or stress‐coping behaviours. Comparable behavioural investigations into reduced low‐affinity, high‐capacity transporter function are lacking, in part, due to a current dearth of drugs that selectively target particular low‐affinity, high‐capacity transporters, such as the plasma membrane monoamine transporter. Therefore, the most direct approach involves constitutive genetic knockout of these transporters. Other groups have reported that knockout of the low‐affinity, high‐capacity organic cation transporters 2 or 3 alters anxiety‐like and stress‐coping behaviours, but none have assessed behaviours in plasma membrane monoamine transporter knockout mice. Here, we evaluated adult male and female plasma membrane monoamine transporter wild‐type, heterozygous and knockout mice in locomotor, anxiety‐like and stress‐coping behavioural tests. A mild enhancement of anxiety‐related behaviour was noted in heterozygous mice. Active‐coping behaviour was modestly and selectively increased in female knockout mice. These subtle behavioural changes support a supplemental role of plasma membrane monoamine transporter in serotonin and dopamine uptake, and suggest sex differences in transporter function should be examined more closely in future investigations.
Ferulic acid reduced histamine levels in the smoked horsemeat sausage
Authors: Zhao Lili , Xue Linlin , Li Binbin , Wang Qingling , Li Baokun , Lu Shiling , Fan Qinglu
Published: May 2018

This study assessed the effect of ferulic acid on the accumulation of histamine in traditional Xinjiang smoked horsemeat sausage. The dynamics of histamine‐producing microorganisms were monitored by PCR‐denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) with specific primer pairs, and histidine and histamine levels were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Relative parameters including microbiological growth, pH and moisture content were also evaluated. PCR‐DGGE provided a rapid and convenient method for detecting and identifying histamine‐producing bacteria. The results showed that ferulic acid reduced the histamine concentration and inhibited the growth of histamine‐producing bacteria during fermentation and ripening. Additionally, the inhibitory effect of ferulic acid was stronger than that of the starter culture. Therefore, ferulic acid appears to be a useful additive for manufacturing fermented sausages.
Pilot‐scale Protamex™‐catalysed production of round scad protein hydrolysates:effects of agitation alone and combined with aeration
Authors: Yao Yujing , Yang Juan , Sun‐Waterhouse Dongxiao , Cui Chun , Wang Wei , Dong Keming
Published: May 2018

A pilot‐scale production of round scad protein hydrolysates via Protamex™‐catalysed proteolysis was firstly established. Process optimisation then focused on the use of mechanical agitation (MA) alone or combined with aeration (MAA). Comparative examinations revealed that proteolysis involving either MA or MAA was feasible with a hydrolysis degree up to 55%, and individual and total biogenic amine (BA) contents much lower than the commonly recognised limits (including the dominant BA, cadaverine). MAA is more advantageous in suppressing bacterial counts and activities associated with protein decomposition, enabling reduced volatile basic nitrogen and BAs. Thus, additional aeration to mechanical agitation is recommended for industrial proteolysis of raw materials unavoidably containing micro‐organisms (especially anaerobic bacteria) in common handling practice.
Nurses’ confidence in providing and managing care for older persons with depressive symptoms or depression in long‐term care facilities: A national survey
Authors: Chuang Yeu‐Hui , Kuo Li‐Min
Published: May 2018

The prevalence of depressive symptoms among older residents in long‐term care facilities (LTCFs) is high. Nurses are the main healthcare providers in LTCFs and also the persons responsible for detecting changes in residents’ mental function and providing subsequent care. Therefore, it is necessary to understand nurses’ knowledge, attitudes, and confidence regarding care for older residents with depressive symptoms or depression. This study aimed to understand nurses’ level of knowledge of late‐life depression, attitudes towards depression, and confidence levels in caring for older adults with depressive symptoms or depression in LTCFs. A cross‐sectional descriptive and correlational research design was used. A nationwide self‐report survey was conducted in 2016. Ultimately, 556 valid questionnaires were returned. The study found that LTCF nurses’ knowledge about late‐life depression was poor, and they also lacked confidence in managing and caring for older persons with depressive symptoms or depression, but nurses’ attitudes towards depression were neutral or slightly positive. Moreover, nurses who had greater confidence in providing care for older persons with depression were those with more positive attitudes towards depression, a greater interest level in taking care of older adults with depression, less late‐life depression knowledge, longer nursing experience in LTCFs, and a greater interest level in late‐life depression issues, and who had read late‐life depression pamphlets or taken courses or classes in late‐life depression. The findings suggest an urgent need to develop strategies to improve nurses’ late‐life depression knowledge and increase their confidence in providing care to older residents with depressive symptoms or depression.
Malnutrition is independently associated with skin tears in hospital inpatient setting—Findings of a 6‐year point prevalence audit
Authors: Munro Emma L , Hickling Donna F , Williams Damian M , Bell Jack J
Published: May 2018

Skin tears cause pain, increased length of stay, increased costs, and reduced quality of life. Minimal research reports the association between skin tears, and malnutrition using robust measures of nutritional status. This study aimed to articulate the association between malnutrition and skin tears in hospital inpatients using a yearly point prevalence of inpatients included in the Queensland Patient Safety Bedside Audit, malnutrition audits and skin tear audits conducted at a metropolitan tertiary hospital between 2010 and 2015. Patients were excluded if admitted to mental health wards or were <18 years. A total of 2197 inpatients were included, with a median age of 71 years. The overall prevalence of skin tears was 8.1%. Malnutrition prevalence was 33.5%. Univariate analysis demonstrated associations between age (P ˂ .001), body mass index (BMI) (P < .001) and malnutrition (P ˂ .001) but not gender (P = .319). Binomial logistic regression analysis modelling demonstrated that malnutrition diagnosed using the Subjective Global Assessment was independently associated with skin tear incidence (odds ratio, OR: 1.63; 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.13‐2.36) and multiple skin tears (OR 2.48 [95% CI 1.37‐4.50]). BMI was not independently associated with skin tears or multiple skin tears. This study demonstrated independent associations between malnutrition and skin tear prevalence and multiple skin tears. It also demonstrated the limitations of BMI as a nutritional assessment measure.
The Ghent Global IAD Monitoring Tool (GLOBIAD‐M) to monitor the healing of incontinence‐associated dermatitis (IAD): Design and reliability study
Authors: Van den Bussche Karen , Verhaeghe Sofie , Van Hecke Ann , Beeckman Dimitri
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to design and evaluate the reliability of the Ghent Global incontinence‐associated dermatitis (IAD) Monitoring Tool (GLOBIAD‐M). The tool was designed based on the internationally validated Ghent Global IAD Categorisation Tool (GLOBIAD). After designing and validation by experts, one trained researcher carried out 36 observations of 9 patients affected with IAD. Photographs of the IAD lesions were independently assessed by a second trained researcher. Measures for inter‐rater agreement (po) and reliability [Cohen's Kappa (ĸ) and intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICC)] were analysed. The po ranged between 0.86 for the item ‘maceration’ and 0.97 for the item ‘clinical signs of infection’. The ĸ for the item ‘GLOBIAD classification’ was 0.61 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.28‐0.95] and 0.72 (95% CI 0.50‐0.95) for ‘maceration’. The lowest ĸ was found for the item ‘oedema’ (0.27; 95% CI −0.24‐0.79). The ICC of the item ‘redness’ was 0.83 (95% CI 0.69‐0.91) and 0.87 (95% CI 0.76‐0.93) for ‘skin loss’. The inter‐rater agreement and reliability of the GLOBIAD‐M appears to be good for the assessment of photographs by experts. This tool could support clinical decision‐making for IAD treatment. Further validation with clinicians is, however, needed.
Validation of “Wound QoL” Hebrew version disease‐specific questionnaire for patients with lower extremity ulcerations
Authors: Gamus Alexander , Kaufman Hanna , Keren Elad , Brandin Gila , Peles Daniel , Chodick Gabriel
Published: May 2018

The slow healing process and high recurrence rate of lower extremity ulcerations (LEU) impose a considerable medical and economic burden and affect quality of life (QoL). Analyses of LEU‐related QoL in Israel are limited due to lack of a validated Hebrew disease‐specific evaluation instrument. The aim of this study was to validate the disease‐specific Hebrew “Wound QoL” questionnaire. The validation of the “Wound QoL” disease‐specific instrument, translated from English to Hebrew, was based on a comparison with the valid Hebrew version of the SF12v.2 health‐related questionnaire. The convenience sample for the “Wound QoL” validation (n = 32) was obtained from patient populations in the Maccabi Health Services’ outpatient clinics at the northern and southern parts of Israel. The study was conducted between June and September 2017. Face/construct validity was accepted by specialists’ consensus. Internal consistency assessed by Cronbach's α was .893. Concurrent validity reflected by Pearson's correlations between the tools was in the range of 0.830 to 0.950. The Wound QoL Hebrew version is a valid and reliable instrument suitable for implementation in an Israeli cultural environment.
Blood pressures immediately following ischemic strokes are associated with cerebral perfusion and neurologic function
Authors: He Mingli , Cui Bing , Wu Cunjin , Meng Pin , Wu Taotao , Wang Mingyu , Yang Ru , Zhou Lin , He Xiaobin , Xu Bingchao , Li Zaipo , Xu Bei , Cai Zenglin , Sun Yong’an , Hui Rutai , Wang Yibo
Published: May 2018

The optimal range of blood pressure levels in the early phase of ischemic stroke with hypertension is still controversial. Based on our stroke registry database, we explored the relationship between blood pressure levels and cerebral perfusion in the early phase of ischemic stroke with hypertension and neurofunctional recovery at 3 months after stroke. Total 732 stroke patients with hypertension were finally analyzed. Patients were divided into quintiles according to systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) to perform multivariable logistic regression to analyze their relation with neurofunctional recovery, respectively. The cerebral perfusion levels displayed a reverse “U” shape curve with the change of blood pressure levels. Sufficient estimated cerebral blood flow (ECBF) in the early phase of ischemic stroke was associated with good neurofunctional recovery at 3 months after stroke. The best neurofunctional recovery was observed in the middle quintiles with SBP at 161 to 177 mm Hg and DBP at 103 to 114 mm Hg, respectively. So maintaining appropriate blood pressure levels in the early phase of ischemic stroke might be beneficial to cerebral perfusion and neurofunctional recovery.
Primary prevention of chronic kidney disease through population‐based strategies for blood pressure control: The ARIC study
Authors: Hardy Shakia T. , Zeng Donglin , Kshirsagar Abhijit V. , Viera Anthony J. , Avery Christy L. , Heiss Gerardo
Published: May 2018

While much of the chronic kidney disease (CKD) literature focuses on the role of blood pressure reduction in delaying CKD progression, little is known about the benefits of modest population‐wide decrements in blood pressure on incident CKD. The authors used multivariable linear regression to characterize the impact on incident CKD of two approaches for blood pressure management: (1) a 1‐mm Hg reduction in systolic BP across the entire study population; and (2) a 10% reduction in participants with unaware, untreated, and uncontrolled BP above goal as defined by the Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC 7) thresholds. Over a mean of 20 years of follow‐up (ARIC [Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities] study, n = 15 390), 3852 incident CKD events were ascertained. After adjustment, a 1‐mm Hg decrement in systolic BP across the population was associated with an estimated 11.7 (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.2–17.3) and 13.4 (95% CI, 10.3–16.6) fewer CKD events per 100 000 person‐years in blacks and whites, respectively. Among participants with BP above JNC 7 goal, a 10% decrease in unaware, untreated, or uncontrolled BP was associated with 3.2 (95% CI, 2.0–4.9), 2.8 (95% CI, 1.8–4.3), and 5.8 (95% CI, 3.6–8.8) fewer CKD events per 100 000 person‐years in blacks and 3.1 (95% CI, 2.3–4.1), 0.7 (95% CI, 0.5–0.9), and 1.0 (95% CI, 1.3–2.4) fewer CKD events per 100 000 person‐years in whites. Modest population‐wide reductions in systolic BP hold potential for the primary prevention of CKD.
Association between functional polymorphisms in IL‐33/ST2 pathway and risk of osteosarcoma
Authors: Wang Jun‐Li , Liu Jia , Xie Ke‐Gong , Lan Chang‐Gong , Lu Lu , Tang Yu‐Jin
Published: May 2018

Interleukin (IL)‐33/ST2 pathway plays crucial roles in tumour growth and metastasis. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of two functional polymorphisms (IL‐33 rs7025417 and ST2 rs3821204) with osteosarcoma (OS) risk. The rs7025417 and rs3821204 were genotyped by Taqman assay. IL‐33mRNA and protein levels were measured by real‐time PCR or enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The luciferase activity was measured by a dual luciferase reporter gene assay. The allele‐specific transcription factor binding for rs7025417 was examined by ChIP‐seq. The IL‐33 rs7025417 CC genotype was significantly associated with a decreased risk of OS (CC vs TT: OR = 0.59, 95% CI, 0.41‐0.85; recessive model: OR = 0.68, 95% CI, 0.49‐0.94; C vs T: OR = 0.76, 95% CI, 0.63‐0.91). Combined analysis showed that the IL‐33 rs7025417CT/CC‐ST2 rs3821204CG/CC and the IL‐33 rs7025417CT/CC‐ST2 rs3821204GG genotypes also had a decreased risk of OS. IL‐33mRNA and protein levels in OS patients were significantly higher than controls. Patients with the rs7025417 CC genotype exhibited lower levels of IL‐33 (P = .03). The rs7025417 C allele presented a lower transcriptional activity by disrupting the binding site to c‐Myb (P < .01). Moreover, the rs3821204 G/C influences the transcriptional activity and ST2mRNA expression by altering the binding site of miR‐202‐3p. These findings suggest that the rs7025417 and rs3821204 may have a combined effect to protect against the development of OS by decreasing the expression levels of IL‐33 or ST2.
Efficacy of non‐surgical treatments for androgenetic alopecia: a systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Gupta A.K. , Mays R.R. , Dotzert M.S. , Versteeg S.G. , Shear N.H. , Piguet V.
Published: May 2018

Androgenetic alopecia, or male/female pattern baldness, is the most common type of progressive hair loss disorder. The aim of this study was to review recent advances in non‐surgical treatments for androgenetic alopecia and identify the most effective treatments. A network meta‐analysis (NMA) was conducted of the available literature of the six most common non‐surgical treatment options for treating androgenetic alopecia in both men and women; dutasteride 0.5 mg, finasteride 1 mg, low‐level laser therapy (LLLT), minoxidil 2%, minoxidil 5% and platelet‐rich plasma (PRP). Seventy‐eight studies met the inclusion criteria, and 22 studies had the data necessary for a network meta‐analysis. Relative effects show LLLT as the superior treatment. Relative effects show PRP, finasteride 1 mg (male), finasteride 1 mg (female), minoxidil 5%, minoxidil 2% and dutasteride (male) are approximately equivalent in mean change hair count following treatment. Minoxidil 5% and minoxidil 2% reported the most drug‐related adverse events (n = 45 and n = 23, respectively). The quality of evidence of minoxidil 2% vs. minoxidil 5% was high; minoxidil 5% vs. placebo was moderate; dutasteride (male) vs. placebo, finasteride (female) vs. placebo, minoxidil 2% vs. placebo and minoxidil 5% vs. LLLT was low; and finasteride (male) vs. placebo, LLLT vs. sham, PRP vs. placebo and finasteride vs. minoxidil 2% was very low. Results of this NMA indicate the emergence of novel, non‐hormonal therapies as effective treatments for hair loss; however, the quality of evidence is generally low. High‐quality randomized controlled trials and head‐to‐head trials are required to support these findings and aid in the development of more standardized protocols, particularly for PRP. Regardless, this analysis may aid physicians in clinical decision‐making and highlight the variety of non‐surgical hair restoration options for patients.
Healthcare Costs for Insured Older U.S. Adults with Hearing Loss
Authors: Simpson Annie N. , Simpson Kit N. , Dubno Judy R.
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To measure 18‐month healthcare cost difference attributable to hearing loss (HL) in older adults.

Design

Matched cohort.

Setting

Retrospective analysis of administrative healthcare bills of insured older Americans.

Participants

Older U.S. adults with health insurance in 3 cohorts matched based on HL diagnosis using propensity score methods (N=904,750).

Measurements

Comparison groups were defined as those with and without HL diagnosis using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, diagnosis codes from billing records. Outcomes measured include 18‐month total healthcare payments and healthcare payments broken down according to payment type (inpatient, outpatient, prescription, hearing services). Three comparison cohorts were examined for these outcomes: individuals covered by Medicare plus supplemental private insurance (Cohort 1, n=782,216), those covered only under Medicare (Cohort 2, n=105,296), and those within the Medicare sample that were dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid coverage (Subcohort 3, n=17,238). The quality of the propensity score match was examined using standardized differences in means or proportions between all matched covariates, and cost outcomes were analyzed using multiple generalized linear regression models.

Results

Fully adjusted models showed significantly higher 18‐month healthcare payments for individuals with a diagnosis of HL without indication of use of hearing services than in those without a HL diagnosis in the 3 samples (payment differences: $3,587 Cohort 1, $3,779 Cohort 2, $4,657 Subcohort 3; all p<.001). Payment differences were also found between individuals with HL and indications of hearing services and those without HL.

Conclusion

We observed more than 20% higher total healthcare payments over 18 months for a group of insured individuals with HL regardless of insurance type or hearing services use, indicating that negative health‐related effects of HL may increase healthcare use unrelated to HL. Thus, clinical care to ameliorate HL may improve overall health.
Prediction of skin anti‐aging clinical benefits of an association of ingredients from marine and maritime origins: Ex vivo evaluation using a label‐free quantitative proteomic and customized data processing approach
Authors: Hameury Sebastien , Borderie Laurent , Monneuse Jean‐Marc , Skorski Gilbert , Pradines Dominique
Published: May 2018

Background

The application of ingredients from marine and maritime origins is increasingly common in skin care products, driven by consumer expectations for natural ingredients. However, these ingredients are typically studied for a few isolated in vitro activities.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to carry out a comprehensive evaluation of the activity on the skin of an association of ingredients from marine and maritime origins using label‐free quantitative proteomic analysis, in order to predict the clinical benefits if used in a skin care product.

Methods

An aqueous gel containing 6.1% of ingredients from marine and maritime origins (amino acid‐enriched giant kelp extract, trace element‐enriched seawater, dedifferentiated sea fennel cells) was topically applied on human skin explants. The skin explants’ proteome was analyzed in a label‐free manner by high‐performance liquid nano‐chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. A specific data processing pipeline (CORAVALID) providing an objective and comprehensive interpretation of the statistically relevant biological activities processed the results.

Results

Compared to untreated skin explants, 64 proteins were significantly regulated by the gel treatment (q‐value ≤ 0.05). Computer data processing revealed an activity of the ingredients on the epidermis and the dermis. These significantly regulated proteins are involved in gene expression, cell survival and metabolism, inflammatory processes, dermal extracellular matrix synthesis, melanogenesis and keratinocyte proliferation, migration, and differentiation.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the tested ingredients could help to preserve a healthy epidermis and dermis, and possibly to prevent the visible signs of skin aging.
Fetal lung size after thoracoamniotic shunting reflects survival in primary fetal hydrothorax with hydrops
Authors: Suyama Fumio , Ozawa Katsusuke , Ogawa Kohei , Sugibayashi Rika , Wada Seiji , Sago Haruhiko
Published: May 2018

Aim

To assess the role of lung size and abnormal Doppler findings in the umbilical artery (UA) in determining the outcomes of fetuses with primary fetal hydrothorax (FHT) associated with hydrops who underwent thoracoamniotic shunting (TAS).

Methods

This was a retrospective study at a single center. We included cases of primary FHT with hydrops who underwent TAS at our hospital between 2004 and 2016. We assessed the relationship between mortality until 28 days after birth and ultrasound findings, including absent or reversed end‐diastolic velocity (AREDV) in the UA and the lung‐to‐thorax transverse area ratio (LTR), before and after TAS.

Results

Forty‐one cases of primary FHT with hydrops underwent TAS. The median (range) gestational age at TAS was 28.5 (19.3–33.8) weeks. Bilateral pleural effusion was observed in 39 cases (95.1%). Among the 41 cases, 19 (46.4%) survived, 11 (26.8%) died in utero, and 11 (26.8%) died in the neonatal period. AREDV in the UA before and after TAS were not associated with mortality (P = 0.32 and 0.47, respectively). The odds ratio for mortality in LTR 0.2–0.3 before TAS was 0.62 (vs LTR < 0.2, P = 0.45) and that in LTR 0.2–0.3 and > 0.3 after TAS were 0.27 and 0.06, respectively (vs LTR < 0.2, P for trend <0.01).

Conclusion

A larger LTR after TAS was significantly associated with a better prognosis in hydropic primary FHT. The fetal lung size after the procedure may be a prognostic factor of primary FHT.
Comparative Analysis of Markers of Mass Effect after Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Ostwaldt Ann‐Christin , Battey Thomas W.K. , Irvine Hannah J. , Campbell Bruce C.V. , Davis Stephen M. , Donnan Geoffrey A. , Kimberly W. Taylor
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Midline shift determined on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) images is a well‐validated marker of mass effect after large hemispheric infarction and associated with mortality. In this study, we targeted a population with moderately sized strokes. We compared midline shift to other imaging markers and determined their ability to predict long‐term outcome.

METHODS

MRI scans were studied from the Echoplanar Imaging Thrombolysis Evaluation Trial (EPITHET) cohort. Midline shift, acute stroke lesion volume, lesional swelling volume, change in ipsilateral hemisphere volume, the ratio of ipsilateral to contralateral hemisphere volume, and the reduction in lateral ventricle volume were measured. The relationships of these markers with poor outcome (modified Rankin scale score 3–6 at day 90) were assessed. Receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curves were generated to compare the performance of each metric.

RESULTS

Of the 71 included patients, 59.2% had a poor outcome that was associated with significantly larger values for midline shift, lesional swelling volume, and ratio of hemisphere volumes. Lesional swelling volume, change in hemisphere volume, ratio of hemisphere volumes, and lateral ventricle displacement were each correlated with midline shift (Spearman r = .60, .49, .61, and −.56, respectively; all P < .0001). ROC curve analysis showed that lesional swelling volume (area under the curve [AUC] = .791) predicted poor outcome better than midline shift (AUC = .682). For predicting mortality, ROC curve analysis showed that these three markers were equivalent.

CONCLUSION

The ratio of ipsilateral to contralateral hemisphere volume, baseline lesion volume and lesional swelling volume best predicted poor outcome across a spectrum of stroke sizes.
Effects of the Dietary Fermented Tuna By‐product Meal on Growth, Blood Parameters, Nonspecific Immune Response, and Disease Resistance in Juvenile Olive Flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus
Authors: Oncul Fatma O. , Aya Frolan A. , Hamidoghli Ali , Won Seonghun , Lee Geon , Han Kyoung R. , Bai Sungchul C.
Published: May 2018

This study evaluated the effects of dietary fermented tuna by‐product meal (FTBM) in juvenile olive flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus. Five diets were formulated to replace fishmeal (FM) with FTBM at 0% (FTBM0), 12.5% (FTBM12.5), 25.0% (FTBM25), 37.5% (FTBM37.5), or 50% (FTBM50). After 8 wk, weight gain, specific growth rate, and feed efficiency of fish fed FTBM0 and FTBM12.5 diets were significantly higher than fish fed the other diets (P < 0.05). Also, mean cumulative survival rates (%) of fish fed the FTBM0 and FTBM12.5 diets were significantly higher than those fed FTBM50 diet at Day 9 postchallenge with Edwardsiella tarda (P < 0.05). Protein efficiency ratio of fish fed FTBM0 and FTBM12.5 diets was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than fish fed diets FTBM37.5 and FTBM50. Broken‐line regression analysis of weight gain showed an optimal FM replacement level of 10.65% with FTBM. Therefore, the optimal dietary inclusion of FTBM in juvenile olive flounder diets could be greater than 10.65% but less than 12.5% without any adverse physiological effects on fish health.
A high‐resolution anorectal manometry parameter based on integrated pressurized volume: A study based on 204 male patients with constipation and 26 controls
Authors: Seo M. , Joo S. , Jung K. W. , Lee J. , Lee H. J. , Soh J. S. , Yoon I. J. , Koo H. S. , Seo S. Y. , Kim D. , Hwang S. W. , Park S. H. , Yang D.‐H. , Ye B. D. , Byeon J.‐S. , Jung H.‐Y. , Yang S.‐K. , Rao S. S. , Myung S.‐J.
Published: May 2018

Background

Conventional anorectal manometric parameters based on linear waves cannot properly predict balloon expulsion (BE) time. We aimed to determine the correlation between integrated pressurized volume (IPV) parameters during simulated evacuation (SE) and BE time in healthy individuals and constipated patients and to assess the correlation between each parameter and symptoms.

Methods

A total of 230 male participants (including 26 healthy volunteers and 204 chronically constipated patients) underwent high‐resolution anorectal manometry (HRAM) and BE tests. The IPV was calculated by multiplying the amplitude, distance, and time from the HRAM profile. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis and partial least square regression (PLSR) were performed.

Key Results

ROC analysis indicated that the IPV ratio between the upper 1 cm and lower 4 cm of the anal canal was more effective for predicting BE time (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.67‐0.80, P < .01) than the conventional anorectal parameters, including defecation index and rectoanal gradient (AUC: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.52‐0.67, P = .01). PLSR analysis of a linear combination of IPV parameters yielded an AUC of 0.79. Moreover, the IPV ratio showed a greater clinical correlation with patient symptoms than conventional parameters.

Conclusions and Inferences

The IPV parameters and the combination of IPV parameters via PLSR were more significantly correlated with BE time than the conventional parameters. Thus, this study presents a useful diagnostic tool for the evaluation of pathophysiologic abnormalities in dyssynergic defecation using IPV and BE time.
Systemic cytokines are elevated in a subset of patients with irritable bowel syndrome but largely unrelated to symptom characteristics
Authors: Bennet S. M. P. , Palsson O. , Whitehead W. E. , Barrow D. A. , Törnblom H. , Öhman L. , Simrén M. , van Tilburg M. A. L.
Published: May 2018

Background

Serum levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines tend to be increased in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients, or subgroups thereof. Still, the link between cytokine levels and IBS symptoms is unclear. We aim to determine systemic cytokine levels in IBS patients and healthy subjects (HS), confirm the presence of a subset of patients with an increased immune activity and to establish if cytokines are linked to IBS symptoms and pathophysiological factors.

Methods

Serum levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and IL‐10 were measured. All subjects reported IBS symptoms using validated questionnaires and underwent colonic sensorimotor testing. Multivariate supervised orthogonal partial least squares‐discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA) and unsupervised principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were implemented.

Key Results

Irritable bowel syndrome patients (n = 246) had higher serum levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, TNF, and IL‐10 compared to HS (n = 21); however, serum cytokine profiles could not discriminate patients from HS. Moreover, cytokine levels were not correlated with symptoms among patients. Supervised OPLS‐DA identified 104 patients (40% of patients) and unsupervised HCA analysis identified 49 patients (20%) with an increased immune activity indicated by elevated levels of serum cytokines compared to HS and the other patients. However, irrespective of how patients with increased immune activity were identified they were symptomatically similar to patients with no indication of increased immune activity.

Conclusions & Inferences

Serum cytokines are elevated in IBS patients compared to HS. Immune activation characterizes a subset of patients, but modest associations between cytokine profile and symptoms suggest immune activity does not directly influence symptoms in IBS.
GbSOBIR1 confers Verticillium wilt resistance by phosphorylating the transcriptional factor GbbHLH171 in Gossypium barbadense
Authors: Zhou Yi , Sun Longqing , Wassan Ghulam Mustafa , He Xin , Shaban Muhammad , Zhang Lin , Zhu Longfu , Zhang Xianlong
Published: May 2018

Receptor‐like kinases (RLKs) are important components of plant innate immunity. Although recent studies have revealed that the RLK suppressor of BIR1‐1 (SOBIR1) can interact with multiple receptor‐like proteins and is required for resistance against fungal pathogens, how the signal is transduced and triggers immune responses remains enigmatic. In this study, we identified a defence‐related RLK from Gossypium barbadense (designated GbSOBIR1) and investigated its functional mechanism. Expression of the GbSOBIR1 gene is ubiquitous in cotton plants and is induced by Verticillium dahliae inoculation. Knock‐down of GbSOBIR1 by virus‐induced gene silencing resulted in attenuated resistance of cotton plants to V. dahliae, while heterologous overexpression of GbSOBIR1 in Arabidopsis improves resistance. We also found that the kinase region of GbSOBIR1 interacts with a basic helix‐loop‐helix (bHLH) transcription factor identified as GbbHLH171 in a yeast‐two‐hybrid screen. GbbHLH171 could interact with and be phosphorylated by GbSOBIR1 in vitro and in vivo and contributes positively to the resistance of cotton against V. dahliae. Furthermore, we found that this phosphorylation is essential to the transcriptional activity and functional role of GbbHLH171. We also show by spectrometric analysis and site‐directed mutagenesis that Ser413 is the GbSOBIR1‐mediated phosphorylation site of GbbHLH171. These results demonstrate that GbSOBIR1 interacts with GbbHLH171 and plays a critical role in cotton resistance to V. dahliae.
Osmotic stress‐responsive promoter upstream transcripts (PROMPTs) act as carriers of MYB transcription factors to induce the expression of target genes in Populus simonii
Authors: Song Yuepeng , Xuan Anran , Bu Chenhao , Ci Dong , Tian Min , Zhang Deqiang
Published: May 2018

Complex RNA transcription and processing produces a diverse range catalog of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), important biological regulators that have been implicated in osmotic stress responses in plants. Promoter upstream transcript (PROMPT) lncRNAs share some regulatory elements with the promoters of their neighbouring protein‐coding genes. However, their function remains unknown. Here, using strand‐specific RNA sequencing, we identified 209 differentially regulated osmotic‐responsive PROMPTs in poplar (Populus simonii). PROMPTs are transcribed bidirectionally and are more stable than other lncRNAs. Co‐expression analysis of PROMPTs and protein‐coding genes divided the regulatory network into five independent subnetworks including 27 network modules. Significantly enriched PROMPTs in the network were selected to validate their regulatory roles. We used delaminated layered double hydroxide lactate nanosheets (LDH‐lactate‐NS) to transport synthetic nucleic acids into live tissues to mimic overexpression and interference of a specific PROMPT. The altered expression of PROMPT_1281 induced the expression of its cis and trans targets, and this interaction was governed by its secondary structure rather than just its primary sequence. Based on this example, we proposed a model that a concentration gradient of PROMPT_1281 is established, which increases the probability of its interaction with targets near its transcription site that shares common motifs. Our results firstly demonstrated that PROMPT_1281 act as carriers of MYB transcription factors to induce the expression of target genes under osmotic stress. In sum, our study identified and validated a set of poplar PROMPTs that likely have regulatory functions in osmotic responses.
Skeptical challenges to international law
Authors: Pavel Carmen E. , Lefkowitz David
Published: May 2018

International and domestic law offer a study in contrasts: States' legal obligations often depend on their consent to specific international legal norms, whereas domestic law applies to individuals with or without their consent; enforcement in international law is weak and, for many international treaties, non‐existent, whereas states spend considerable resources to create centralized coercive enforcement mechanisms; and international law is characterized by much less institutional differentiation and specialization of functions than domestic legal systems are. These differences have invited a number of skeptical challenges to international law, 3 of which we explore in this essay. The first points to 1 or more of the deviations of international law's institutional structure from that of a modern state's legal system as a basis for denying that international law is really “law.” Central to the debates over international law's status as law are concerns about whether and why the concepts of law inherited from domestic legal systems should serve as the blueprint for theorizing law in general and international law in particular. The second skeptical challenge targets international law's legitimacy. It claims that we lack reasons to treat international legal norms or the exercise of political power by international institutions, as anything other than an attempt by states to advance their national interests. If this challenge succeeds, states and other subjects of international law have merely prudential reasons to comply with it rather than a moral duty to obey it. Following a brief description of recent debates over how we ought to understand the concept of legitimacy when used to assess international political practices or global governance, we survey several possible bases for a moral duty to obey or respect international law. These include state consent, instrumental accounts of legitimate authority, and global democracy. The third set of challenges focuses on the relationship between state sovereignty and international law. International rules and institutions often make demands for reform affecting the domestic law of a state in order to elicit compliance with international law. Skeptics argue that the rule of international law is incompatible with states' political self‐determination. Regardless of whether their defense of this claim ultimately succeeds, thoughtful engagement with it may well require us to rethink some of the fundamental concepts and normative ideals in political philosophy, including state sovereignty, democracy, individual rights, political authority, and political obligation.
Roles of Vanadium and Nitrogen in Photocatalytic Activity of VN‐Codoped TiO2 Photocatalyst
Authors: Varma Ranjana , Yadav Manisha , Tiwari Kajal , Makani Nisha , Gupta Suraj , Kothari Dushyant C. , Miotello Antonio , Patel Nainesh
Published: May 2018

In the present manuscript, we explore the VN‐codoped TiO2 system intended to understand the role played by each dopant in synergistic enhancement in performance of TiO2 photocatalyst. The photocatalytic decomposition of organic pollutants in aqueous solution under visible light was used as a probe reaction to evaluate the performance of VN‐codoped TiO2 samples with different V and N concentrations. An optical measurement of VN‐codoped TiO2 shows considerable improved visible light absorption with increase in V‐concentration as compared to increase in N concentration, which was due to the effective narrowing of the band gap by V‐doping. The energy levels formed by N‐dopants act as the trapping centers for photogenerated holes to suppress recombination process as indicated by PL and TRPL results. It is also observed that at high V‐concentrations recombination centers are created in the form of oxygen vacancies as indicated by XPS and PL. In VN‐codoped TiO2, addition of N partially fills these oxygen vacancies to reduce the number of recombination centers and prolong the lifetime of charge carriers. Thus, V improves the visible light absorption while N reduces the recombination of electron–hole pairs, thus creating the synergistic effect to produce three times better performance than pure TiO2.
Improving the robustness and efficiency of covariate‐adjusted linear instrumental variable estimators
Authors: Vansteelandt Stijn , Didelez Vanessa
Published: May 2018

Two‐stage least squares estimators and variants thereof are widely used to infer the effect of an exposure on an outcome using instrumental variables (IVs). Two‐stage least squares estimators enjoy greater robustness to model misspecification than other two‐stage estimators but can be inefficient when the exposure is non‐linearly related to the IV (or covariates). Locally efficient double‐robust estimators overcome this concern. These make use of a possibly non‐linear model for the exposure to increase efficiency but remain consistent when that model is misspecified, so long as either a model for the IV or for the outcome model is correctly specified. However, their finite sample performance can be poor when the models for the IV, exposure, and/or outcome are misspecified. We therefore develop double‐robust procedures with improved efficiency and robustness properties under misspecification of some or even all working models. Simulation studies and a data analysis demonstrate remarkable improvements.
Effects of home‐based exergaming on child social cognition and subsequent prediction of behavior
Authors: Rhodes R. E. , Kaos M. D. , Beauchamp M. R. , Bursick S. K. , Latimer‐Cheung A. E. , Hernandez H. , Warburton D. E. R. , Ye Z. , Nicholas Graham T. C.
Published: May 2018

The use of exergames may be one viable way to increase child physical activity, but investigation of its effects on motivation over time and prediction of adherence have seen little research attention. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of two cycling exergame interventions (single‐player, multi‐player) among children aged 9‐12 years on motivational variables (theory of planned behavior) and to explore whether these variables could predict objective assessment of playtime across 6 weeks. Sixty‐nine insufficiently active children were recruited through advertisements within the community/schools and randomized to either the single play condition (n = 30) or multi‐player condition (n = 39). Exergaming use was recorded objectively via game logs and motivational variables were assessed after a familiarization session, at 2 weeks, and at 4 weeks. Participants played the exergames M = 133.45 (SD = 81.27) minutes in week 1 to M = 77.23 (SD = 84.09) minutes in week 6. The two exergame conditions did not result in differences among theory of planned behavior variables (P > .05). Mean levels of these constructs declined across the first 4 weeks (P < .05), with the exception of injunctive norm. Positive bivariate associations (P < .05) between game play and perceived control (0‐6 weeks), and intention (weeks 3‐4 and weeks 5‐6) were identified, but only affective attitude (assessed at week 2) predicted (P < .05) game play (3‐4 weeks) in a multivariate examination of the theory of planned behavior model. The results demonstrate that social cognitive motives wane across time when exposed to repeated exergame play.
Scheduling of eccentric lower limb injury prevention exercises during the soccer micro‐cycle: Which day of the week?
Authors: Lovell R. , Whalan M. , Marshall P. W. M. , Sampson J. A. , Siegler J. C. , Buchheit M.
Published: May 2018

Scheduling eccentric‐based injury prevention programs (IPP) during the common 6‐day micro‐cycle in soccer is challenged by recovery and tapering phases. This study profiled muscle damage, neuromuscular performance, and perceptual responses to a lower limb eccentric‐based IPP administered 1 (MD+1) vs 3 days (MD+3) postmatch. A total of 18 semi‐professional players were monitored daily during 3 in‐season 6‐day micro‐cycles, including weekly competitive fixtures. Capillary creatine kinase concentration (CK), posterior lower limb isometric peak force (PF), counter‐movement jump (CMJ) performance, and muscle soreness were assessed 24 hours prior to match‐day (baseline), and every 24 hours up to 120 hours postmatch. The IPP consisted of lunges, single stiff leg dead‐lifts, single leg‐squats, and Nordic hamstring exercises. Performing the IPP on MD+1 attenuated the decline in CK normally observed following match play (CON: 142%; MD+3: 166%; small differences). When IPP was delivered on MD+3, CK was higher vs CON and MD+1 trials on both MD+4 (MD+3: 260%; CON: 146%; MD+1: 151%; moderate differences) and MD+5 (MD+3: 209%; CON: 125%; MD+1: 127%; small differences). Soreness ratings were not exacerbated when the IPP was delivered on MD+1, but when prescribed on MD+3, hamstring soreness ratings remained higher on MD+4 and MD+5 (small differences). No between‐trial differences were observed for PF and CMJ. Administering the IPP in the middle of the micro‐cycle (MD+3) increased measures of muscle damage and soreness, which remained elevated on the day prior to the next match (MD+5). Accordingly, IPP should be scheduled early in the micro‐cycle, to avoid compromising preparation for the following match.
Chain dynamics of human dermis by Thermostimulated currents: A tool for new markers of aging
Authors: Samouillan V. , Tang R. , Dandurand J. , Lacabanne C. , Lacoste‐Ferré M.‐H. , Villaret A. , Nadal‐Wollbold F. , Schmitt A.‐M.
Published: May 2018

Background/purpose

The purpose of this clinical study was to identify dielectric markers to complete a previous thermal and vibrational study on the molecular and organizational changes in human dermis during intrinsic and extrinsic aging.

Methods

Sun‐exposed and non‐exposed skin biopsies were collected from 28 women devised in two groups (20‐30 and ≥60 years old). The dielectric relaxation modes associated with localized and delocalized dynamics in the fresh and dehydrated state were determined by the Thermostimulated currents technique (TSC).

Results

Intrinsic and extrinsic aging induced significant evolution of some of the dielectric parameters of localized and delocalized dynamics of human skin. With photo‐aging, freezable water forms a segregated phase in dermis and its dynamics is close to free water, what evidences the major role of extrinsic aging on water organization in human skin. Moreover, TSC indicators highlight the restriction of localized mobility with intrinsic aging due to glycation, and the cumulative effect of chronological aging and photo‐exposition on the molecular mobility of the main structural proteins of the dermis at the mesoscopic scale.

Conclusion

TSC is a well‐suited technique to scan the molecular mobility of human skin. It can be uses as a relevant complement of vibrational and thermal characterization to follow human skin modifications with intrinsic and extrinsic aging.
Rethinking “community” relationally: Polish communities in Scotland before and after Brexit
Authors: Botterill Kate
Published: May 2018

Community is a nebulous, contested concept in geography spanning research on social networks, encounters, mobilities, citizenship and belonging. However, its use as a discursive trope in public, policy and academic work points to continued relevance as an analytical category, particularly as meanings of community in Europe are being tested by Brexit. This paper combines diverse scholarship on the geographies of encounter, mobility and citizenship to revisit the concept of “community” using a relational lens. This is explored through an original empirical analysis of the community practices of Polish nationals in Scotland in the context of Brexit. Using biographical‐narrative data collected before and after the UK referendum on EU membership, the paper discusses three forms of community practised by Polish nationals: community centre, a cyber community and a community festival. I advance a relational perspective on community that overcomes spatially and temporally rigid dichotomies of communal experience, emphasising community as a dynamic, interconnected and power‐laden process involving multiple temporalities.