bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mice on menu: opportunistic feeding behaviour of the Amazonian silver arowana Osteoglossum bicirrhosum
Authors: Verba Julia Tovar , Lima de Oliveira Borges Manoela , Ferreira da Silva Maria Nazareth , Costa Pinto Lorena , Rabello Neto José Gurgel
Published: June 2018

Two silver arowana, Osteoglossum bicirrhosum, one male (49.5 cm standard length, LS) and one female (52.5 cm LS) that had fed on small‐eared colilargo or small‐eared pygmy rice rat Oligoryzomys microtis, were sampled during the rising water period in the Brazilian Amazon. The identified prey were 6 and 8 cm long and occupied the entire stomachs of both individuals. This opportunistic feeding behaviour appears to be a strategy for this fish to acquire nutrients during times when its usual aquatic prey is dispersed throughout the flooded forest.
Gender Ideology and Women's Labor Market Transitions Within Couples in the Netherlands
Authors: Khoudja Yassine , Fleischmann Fenella
Published: June 2018

Objective

This study examines the role of women's and their partners' gender ideology in shaping women's labor market entries, exits, and changes in hours of employment.

Background

Recent research argues that women's gender ideology is crucial for understanding women's contemporary labor market participation. However, the role of male partners' gender ideology for partnered women's labor market participation has received less attention.

Method

The analysis uses three waves of a large‐scale household panel survey based on a random sample of individuals within Dutch households. Random‐effect models are applied to study whether women's and their partners' gender ideology are associated with women's labor market transitions and whether relevant household characteristics' associations with women's labor market transitions are conditional on both partners' gender ideology.

Results

Women's gender ideology is associated with the probability of women's labor market entries and exits, but not with changes in women's hours worked, whereas their male partners' ideology is related only to the probability of women's labor market exits. Furthermore, the negative association of having children with changes in women's hours worked is stronger for traditional compared to egalitarian women. There is no clear evidence that gender ideology moderates the association of the male partner's labor market resources with women's labor market transitions.

Conclusion

Women's labor market transitions are not only reactions to economic pressure and institutional constraints but also women's and marginally their partners' gender attitudes.
Immunoexpression of glucocorticoid receptor alpha (GRα) isoform and apoptotic proteins (Bcl‐2 and Bax) in actinic cheilitis and lower lip squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: de Sena Luana Samara Balduíno , da Silveira Éricka Janine Dantas , Batista Aline Carvalho , Mendonça Elismauro Francisco , Alves Pollianna Muniz , Nonaka Cassiano Francisco Weege
Published: June 2018

Background

Actinic cheilitis (AC) is a potentially malignant disorder that can progress to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), but this process is not fully understood. This study evaluated the immunoexpression of glucocorticoid receptor alpha (GRα) isoform and apoptotic proteins (Bcl‐2 and Bax) in AC and lower lip SCC (LLSCC).

Methods

Twenty‐two AC and 44 LLSCCs (22 with regional nodal metastasis and 22 without metastasis) were selected. The percentages of nuclear (GRα) and cytoplasmic (GRα, Bcl‐2, and Bax) staining in epithelial cells were assessed and correlated with clinical (tumor size/extent and clinical stage) and histopathological parameters (risk of malignant transformation for AC and histopathological grade of malignancy for LLSCCs).

Results

Expression of GRα was observed in all cases studied, with relatively high median percentages of positive staining. When compared to AC, LLSCCs exhibited lower nuclear expression and higher cytoplasmic expression of GRα (P < 0.05). Regarding clinicopathological parameters, significant differences were only found for cytoplasmic expression of GRα according to the histopathological grade of LLSCCs (P = 0.036). Higher expression of Bax compared to Bcl‐2 was observed in AC and LLSCCs (P < 0.05). In LLSCCs, there was a positive correlation between nuclear and cytoplasmic expressions of GRα (P = 0.006).

Conclusion

Reduced nuclear translocation and increased cytoplasmic expression of GRα may be important events in lip carcinogenesis but are not involved in the progression of LLSCC. The role of GRα in lip cancer development does not seem to be primarily related to modulations in the expression of Bcl‐2 or Bax.
Relationship between sensory analysis for texture and instrument measurements in model strawberry jam
Authors: Kurotobi Tomoka , Hoshino Takayoshi , Kazami Yukari , Hayakawa Fumiyo , Hagura Yoshio
Published: June 2018

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the correlations between instrument measurements and sensory attributes of strawberry jam. For this purpose, a series of low sugar strawberry jams were prepared by using different contents of pectin from different sources, which were evaluated by sensory analysis for sensory attributes and by instrument measurements for specific physical properties. Model strawberry jams showed an elastic behavior that increased with higher low‐methoxyl (LM) pectin content. These results showed that the apparent viscosity from viscosity measurements was highly correlated with each sensory attribute. As jam is a non‐Newtonian fluid, the apparent viscosity was dependent on the shear rate. Moreover, the secondary objective of this study was to discern the physical properties affecting human texture perception based on these relationships. Hence, the instrumental texture perception based on the oral cavity condition was able to predict human texture perception based on the shear rate, which was obtained from the apparent viscosity. These results indicated that human texture perception is judged by apparent viscosity as determined by controlling tongue movement and oral cavity condition (e.g., temperature, saliva, and shear rate).

Practical applications

We could demonstrate the importance of texture measurement using replicated oral processing for each sensory attribute. Specifically, viscosity measurement results indicated that shear rate is a very important factor for texture perception. Moreover, our findings clarified that human texture perception is modified by apparent viscosity corresponding to shear rate. We anticipate that this technology might be applied as a measure of apparent viscosity to control texture for jam quality improvement.
A comparative study of texture and rheology of Argentinian honeys from two regions
Authors: Maldonado Gerardo E. , Navarro Alba S. , Yamul Diego K.
Published: June 2018

The rheological and textural properties of 26 eastern Argentinian honeys from two different regions (North and Central) were investigated. The viscosity curves of the samples were obtained using a rotational rheometer over a temperature range of 10 to 50C. The viscosity decreased with temperature and all honeys showed a Newtonian behavior. The temperature dependence of viscosity was described using the Arrhenius, Williams–Landel–Ferry, Vogel–Taumman–Fulcher, and Power Law models. The glass transition temperatures of honeys were measured with differential scanning calorimetry and values ranged from −42.63 to −47.71C. The glass transition temperature was also predicted with the Williams–Landel–Ferry model and no significant differences were observed with the experimental results. Rheological parameters were obtained by small amplitude oscillation experiments. Results indicated that the viscous modulus was higher than the storage modulus within all the frequency ranges assayed and honeys from the North region were more viscous. Results of the back extrusion test showed that honeys from the Central region are harder and both groups of honeys (North and Central) exhibited the same consistency and adhesivity.

Practical applications

The honey chain production starts with the extraction of the product from the combs, pumping it through pipes and finishes at the packaging of the product. During all these stages, honey viscosity is a key parameter to ensure proper processing and quality control, preventing the waste of economic resources. Determining honey viscosity is of great importance for the industry to select the equipment such as pumps, mixers, filters, centrifuges, heat exchangers, and optimization of industrial processes. The rheological and textural properties of honey are very important in terms of applications related to quality control and authenticity of honeys. Honey authenticity increases the trust of consumers to certified food products. Argentina is one of the leading honey producers and exporters in the world, but information on the rheological, thermal, and textural characteristics of Argentinian honey is very poor in the scientific literature.
Long‐term changes in regional vegetation cover along the west coast of southern Norway: The importance of human impact
Authors: Hjelle Kari Loe , Halvorsen Lene S. , Prøsch‐Danielsen Lisbeth , Sugita Shinya , Paus Aage , Kaland Peter Emil , Mehl Ingvild K. , Overland Anette , Danielsen Randi , Høeg Helge I. , Midtbø Inger
Published: June 2018

Questions

How open was the landscape prior to agriculture? Did agriculture start earlier in the south than in the north? How did the vegetation change in different regions after the introduction of agriculture?

Location

Coast of SW and W Norway.

Methods

The REVEALS (Regional Estimates of VEgetation Abundance from Large Sites) model is applied for pollen‐based vegetation reconstruction in 19 time windows over the last 9,000 years. Pollen data from 63 sites (lakes and bogs) are compiled and systematically used for data analysis so that the structure of vegetation change in space and time is captured.

Results

Estimated cover of selected trees, shrubs, Calluna, graminids and herbs indicate a partly open outer coast throughout the Holocene. The highest tree cover is estimated for 8,200–6,200 cal. BP. Broad‐leaved trees (Fraxinus, Quercus, Tilia and Ulmus) spread from south to north and were present in the whole region at the end of the Mesolithic (5,950 cal. BP). Larger spatial variation in tree cover and a step‐wise reduction in deciduous trees after 5,700 cal. BP is concordant with increases in open‐land taxa indicating human activity. Vegetation changes caused by agriculture are indicated in the very south from ca. 5,950 cal. BP. Distinct human‐induced vegetation changes with spatial differentiation took place from 4,200 to 1,700 cal. BP, when most of the areas earlier covered by deciduous woodland had been transformed to cultivated fields, grasslands and heathlands. Increased Poaceae cover from 1,700 cal. BP probably reflects the expansion of mown meadows in addition to pastures.

Conclusions

Capturing continuous changes of vegetation structure in space and time elucidates open areas along the western coast prior to the introduction of agriculture. Agriculture started earliest in the very south and spread rapidly along the whole coast prior to the Late Neolithic. Differences within the study area have existed in all time periods, reflecting different land‐use practices adapted to different natural conditions.
Should we cure hepatitis C virus in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma while treating cancer?
Authors: Cabibbo Giuseppe , Celsa Ciro , Cammà Calogero , Craxì Antonio
Published: June 2018

Direct acting antivirals stabilize or improve liver function in the majority of patients with hepatitis C virus cirrhosis. Hepatic decompensation is the main driver of death of patients with early, successfully treated hepatocellular carcinoma superimposed to cirrhosis. Treatment with direct acting antivirals could improve the prognosis of these subjects, independently from the subsequent course of hepatocellular carcinoma, if the efficacy in obtaining viral clearance is as high as in patients without a history of hepatocellular carcinoma, and if the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence is unaffected. When dealing with hepatocellular carcinoma patients, direct acting antivirals can be indicated in two different settings: (a) subjects in which hepatocellular carcinoma has been already successfully treated (“cured” hepatocellular carcinoma), or (b) subjects whose hepatocellular carcinoma is still untreated or untreatable (“active” hepatocellular carcinoma). Although there are abundant data on “cured” hepatocellular carcinoma, evidence supporting treatment decisions in patients with “active” hepatocellular carcinoma is at best scarce and controversial, since these patients as well as patients with hepatocellular carcinoma listed for liver transplantation are usually excluded from treatment.
Elicitors and defense gene induction in plants with altered lignin compositions
Authors: Gallego‐Giraldo Lina , Posé Sara , Pattathil Sivakumar , Peralta Angelo Gabriel , Hahn Michael G. , Ayre Brian G. , Sunuwar Janak , Hernandez Jonathan , Patel Monika , Shah Jyoti , Rao Xiaolan , Knox J. Paul , Dixon Richard A.
Published: June 2018

A reduction in the lignin content in transgenic plants induces the ectopic expression of defense genes, but the importance of altered lignin composition in such phenomena remains unclear.

Two Arabidopsis lines with similar lignin contents, but strikingly different lignin compositions, exhibited different quantitative and qualitative transcriptional responses. Plants with lignin composed primarily of guaiacyl units overexpressed genes responsive to oomycete and bacterial pathogen attack, whereas plants with lignin composed primarily of syringyl units expressed a far greater number of defense genes, including some associated with cis‐jasmone‐mediated responses to aphids; these plants exhibited altered responsiveness to bacterial and aphid inoculation.

Several of the defense genes were differentially induced by water‐soluble extracts from cell walls of plants of the two lines. Glycome profiling, fractionation and enzymatic digestion studies indicated that the different lignin compositions led to differential extractability of a range of heterogeneous oligosaccharide epitopes, with elicitor activity originating from different cell wall polymers.

Alteration of lignin composition affects interactions with plant cell wall matrix polysaccharides to alter the sequestration of multiple latent defense signal molecules with an impact on biotic stress responses.
High‐density mapping for catheter ablation of premature ventricular complexes originating from left ventricular papillary muscles: A case series
Authors: Koutbi Linda , Maille Baptiste , Peyrol Michael , Hourdain Jérôme , Salaun Erwan , Deharo Jean‐Claude , Franceschi Frédéric
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Ablation of premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) originating from left‐sided papillary muscles is challenging. We tested a new approach by performing high‐density mapping of PVC.

Methods and results

We used a 20‐pole deflectable spiral catheter during ablation procedures in four consecutive patients. Three presented with mitral valve prolapse, one with dilated cardiomyopathy. PVC burden was 24 ± 13%. The procedures lasted 182 ± 55.4 minutes, including 10 ± 3.2 minutes of radiofrequency. In all patients, mapping evidenced internal primary activation relative to the left ventricle shell (mean distance 21.3 ± 5.1 mm). Endocavitary prematurity was –38.3 ± 4.8 ms. Primary ablation success was achieved for all patients.

Conclusions

High‐density mapping of the papillary muscles in the left ventricle using a spiral catheter may be feasible. We identified the PVC foci away from the left ventricular shell. This consolidates the assumption for the origin of these ectopic beats at the junction between the chordae tendineae and the papillary muscles.
Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio to predict gastrointestinal bleeding in Henoch: Schönlein purpura
Authors: Hong Seung Hee , Kim Chan Jong , Yang Eun Mi
Published: June 2018

Background

Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a common form of vasculitis in children. It typically involves small vessels of the skin, the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, joints, and kidneys. GI involvement is the most severe short‐term complication and GI bleeding is a major complication of HSP, but there is no established predictive marker of GI bleeding. Blood neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been proposed as a potentially useful marker of clinical outcome in diseases with an inflammatory component. The aim of this study was to clarify the association of NLR with HSP and investigate the usefulness of NLR as a marker to predict GI bleeding in children with HSP.

Methods

All patients with newly diagnosed HSP were reviewed retrospectively. White blood cell count, hemoglobin, platelet counts, mean platelet volume, neutrophil and lymphocyte count were evaluated. NLR and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were calculated using complete blood count data.

Results

This study involved 141 HSP patients. GI involvement was found in 65 patients (46.1%), and, of these, 15 (10.6%) had GI bleeding. At the time of diagnosis, NLR was significantly higher (P = 0.001) and PLR significantly lower (P = 0.032) in patients with GI bleeding than in those without GI bleeding. On logistic regression analysis, NLR was the only independent predictor of GI bleeding (P = 0.004). The optimal cut‐off of NLR for predicting GI bleeding was 2.86 (sensitivity, 73%; specificity, 68%).

Conclusions

NLR, a simple and easily obtainable parameter, is a potential predictive marker of GI bleeding in children with HSP.
Two-Stage Design for Phase I–II Cancer Clinical Trials Using Continuous Dose Combinations of Cytotoxic Agents
Authors: Tighiouart Mourad
Published: June 2018

We present a two-stage phase I–II design of a combination of two drugs in cancer clinical trials. The goal is to estimate safe dose combination regions with a desired level of efficacy. In stage I, conditional escalation with overdose control is used to allocate dose combinations to successive cohorts of patients and the maximum tolerated dose curve is estimated as a function of Bayes estimates of the model parameters. In stage II, we propose a Bayesian adaptive design for conducting the phase II trial to determine dose combination regions along the maximum tolerated dose curve with a desired level of efficacy. The methodology is evaluated by extensive simulations and application to a real trial.
Comparison of time‐matched aerobic, resistance, or concurrent exercise training in older adults
Authors: Timmons James F. , Minnock Dean , Hone Michelle , Cogan Karl E. , Murphy John C. , Egan Brendan
Published: June 2018

A supervised 12‐week intervention of time‐matched aerobic vs resistance versus concurrent exercise training was employed to investigate mode‐ and time course‐specific effects of exercise training in older adults. Community‐dwelling men and women (n = 84; M/F, 45/39; 69.3 ± 3.5 years; 26.4 ± 3.8 kg m−2) were randomly assigned (n = 21 each) to either non‐exercise control (CON), aerobic exercise only (AER), resistance exercise only (RES), or concurrent aerobic and resistance exercise (CEX). Training groups trained three times per week, each performing 72 minutes of active exercise time per week. Body composition, physical and cognitive function, and markers of metabolic health were assessed before (PRE), and after 6 (MID) and 12 (POST) weeks of exercise training. Hand‐grip strength, 1RM chest press, and arm LBM were improved by both RES and CEX, but not AER. Aerobic fitness increased in AER and RES, but not CEX. Cognitive function improved in all groups, but occurred earlier (ie, at MID) in AER. CEX improved gait speed and lower limb strength and reduced trunk fat compared to either AER or RES. Leg LBM was unchanged in any group. Temporal patterns were observed as early as 6 weeks of training (gait speed, upper and lower limb strength, aerobic fitness), whereas others were unchanged until 12 weeks (hand‐grip strength, timed up‐and‐go, sit‐to‐stand). Compared to either aerobic or resistance exercise training alone, concurrent exercise training is as efficacious for improving a range of health‐related parameters and is more efficacious for increasing gait speed and lower limb strength, and decreasing trunk fat in older adults.
Genetic polymorphism analysis of MICB gene in Jing ethnic minority of Southern China
Authors: Liu Xuexiang , Chen Xiang , Wei Xiaomou , Meng Yuming , Liu Limin , Dai Shengming
Published: June 2018

In the present study, the polymorphism in the 5′‐upstream regulation region (5′‐URR), coding region (exons 2‐4), and the 3′‐untranslated region (3′‐UTR) of MICB gene were investigated for 150 healthy unrelated Jing individuals in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, by using PCR‐SBT method. A total of 14 variation sites in the 5′‐URR, 9 in coding region, and 6 in the 3′‐UTR were detected in the Jing population. The MICB gene seems to present two different lineages showing functional variations mainly in nucleotides of the promoter region. Nineteen different MICB extended haplotypes (EHs) encompassing the 5′‐URR, exons 2‐4, and 3′‐UTR were found in this population, and the most frequent was EH2 (20.33%). The findings here are of importance for future studies on the potential role of regulation region of MICB gene in disease association, transplantation, viral infection, and tumor progression among Jing population.
Urdu speaking population from South India: Six extended haplotypes in linkage disequilibrium in Urdu Speaking Population
Authors: Seshasubramanian V. , Manisekar N. K. , Sathishkannan A. D. , Naganathan C. , Nandakumar Y. , Narayan S.
Published: June 2018

HLA A:B:C:DRB1:DQB1 allele and haplotype frequencies were determined among Urdu speaking population from South India by Sanger and Next Generation Sequencing. Seventy bone marrow registry donors and 327 cord blood units from the Jeevan Stem Cell Foundation (part of Be The Cure Registry), Chennai, Tamilnadu were included in the study. No overall deviations from expected Hardy‐Weinberg equilibrium proportions were observed at all the five loci studied. The most frequent HLA class I alleles observed in this population were A*11:01:01, B*40:06:01, and C*06:02:01, showing a frequency of 15.87%, 12.72%, and 13.22%, respectively. The most frequent class II alleles observed in this population were DRB1*07:01:01 (15.62%) and DQB1*06:01:01 (21.41%). The top ranked haplotype A*01:01:01~B*57:01:01~C*06:02:01~DRB1*07:01:01~DQB1*03:03:02 (2.77%) reported in the present study, was the highly frequent haplotype found in Telugu speaking population who lived in the same region.
Problems and Their Solutions in a Multicultural Environment According to Pre-service Social Studies Teachers
Authors: Keskin Sevgi Coşkun
Published: June 2018

Multiculturalism that is a natural consequence of the phenomenon of globalization is a reality that nations cannot ignore nowadays. The social studies course is of special importance at the point of multicultural education. Therefore, there is a need to educate teachers who will teach this lesson consciously and sensitively. This study was conducted to describe problems in a multicultural environment and solution proposals to them based on the discourses of pre-service social studies teachers. The phenomenological approach among qualitative research methods was used in the study. A semi-structured interview form was applied to 110 pre-service social studies teachers. As a result of the coding performed by taking expert opinions, it was determined that the vast majority of the pre-service teachers attributed meanings such as multinational population, the diversity of cultural values, and different races, languages, religions and ethnic structures to multiculturalism. At the point of problems in a multicultural environment, it was observed that they emphasized conflict, social differentiation and division, assimilation, constraints, difficulty of communication and cultural erosion.  In the solution of these problems, they suggested regarding differences as wealth and providing education that contains multicultural values.
A magnetic look into neuromodulation
Authors: Holloway Julianne L.
Published: June 2018

Hydrogel containing magnetic microparticles allows for noninvasive and remote neuromodulation via magnetomechanical stimulation.
Postharvest Supply Chain with Microbial Travelers: a Farm-to-Retail Microbial Simulation and Visualization Framework
Authors: Zoellner Claire , Al-Mamun Mohammad Abdullah , Grohn Yrjo , Jackson Peter , Worobo Randy
Published: June 2018

Preventing the contamination of fresh produce with foodborne pathogens present in the environment during production and postharvest handling is an important food safety goal. Since studying foodborne pathogens in the environment is a complex and costly endeavor, computer simulation models can help to understand and visualize microorganism behavior resulting from supply chain activities. The postharvest supply chain with microbial travelers (PSCMT) model, presented here, provides a unique tool for postharvest supply chain simulations to evaluate microbial contamination. The tool was validated through modeling an observed tomato supply chain. Visualization of dynamic contamination levels from harvest to the supermarket and analysis of the model parameters highlighted critical points where intervention may prevent microbial levels sufficient to cause foodborne illness. The PSCMT model framework and simulation results support ongoing postharvest research and interventions to improve understanding and control of fresh produce contamination.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Antimicrobial-Producing Strain Paenibacillus elgii AC13
Authors: Ortega Daniel Barros , Costa Rosiane Andrade , Pires Allan Silva , Araújo Thiago Fellipe , Araújo Janaina Fernandez , Kurokawa Adriane Silva , Magalhães Beatriz Simas , Reis Alessandra Maria Moreira , Franco Octávio Luís , Kruger Ricardo Henrique , Pappas Georgios Joannis , Barreto Cristine Chaves
Published: June 2018

A
Paenibacillus elgii
strain isolated from soil samples from Cerrado, Brazil, showed antimicrobial activity. Its genome sequence was acquired (GS20 FLX Titanium 454 platform) and comprises 108 contigs (
N
50
, 198,427 bp) and 6,810 predicted sequences.
Complete Genome Sequencing of Two Equine Influenza A(H3N8) Virus Strains Isolated in Kazakhstan
Authors: Burashev Yerbol , Strochkov Vitaliy , Sultankulova Kulyaisan , Orynbayev Mukhit , Sansyzbay Abylay , Sandybayev Nurlan , Nurabayev Sergazy , Savitskaya Irina , Rock Daniel L. , Tulman Edan R.
Published: June 2018

Here, we report the complete genome sequencing of strains A/equine/Kostanay/9/2012(H3N8) and A/equine/LKZ/9/2012(H3N8) of the equine influenza virus belonging to Florida sublineage, clade 2. The strains were isolated in 2012 in the northern and southern regions of Kazakhstan, respectively.
Complete Genome Sequence of an Avian Native NDM-1-Producing Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica Serovar Corvallis Strain
Authors: Hadziabdic Sead , Borowiak Maria , Bloch Angelina , Malorny Burkhard , Szabo Istvan , Guerra Beatriz , Kaesbohrer Annemarie , Fischer Jennie
Published: June 2018

Carbapenems are an important class of β-lactams and one of the last options for treating severe human infections. We present here the complete genome sequence of avian native carbapenemase-producing
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
Draft Genome Sequences of Two Edwardsiella piscicida Strains, JF1307 and JF1411, Isolated from Diseased Olive Flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) Cultured in Japan
Authors: Sugiura Hidehiro , Monno Shinya , Yamashita Hazuki , Kato Yusuke , Imajoh Masayuki
Published: June 2018

Edwardsiella piscicida
strains JF1307 and JF1411 were isolated from cultured olive flounder that were diagnosed as being infected with edwardsiellosis. The draft genome sequences of the two isolates comprise 3,882,000 bp and 3,827,424 bp with G+C contents of 59.5% and 59.6%, respectively.
Draft Genome Sequence of a White Spot Syndrome Virus Isolate Obtained in Ecuador
Authors: Restrepo Leda , Reyes Alejandro , Bajaña Leandro , Betancourt Irma , Bayot Bonny
Published: June 2018

White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is the most devastating viral disease affecting cultivated shrimp around the world. Currently, there is no reported genetic information on WSSV affecting
Penaeus vannamei
in Ecuador.
Genome Sequences of Five Lactobacillus sp. Isolates from Traditional Turkish Sourdough
Authors: Dertli Enes , Skory Christopher D. , Şimşek Ömer
Published: June 2018

A high level of variation in microflora can be observed in profiles of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) from sourdoughs. Here, we present draft genome sequences of
Lactobacillus reuteri
E81,
L. reuteri
LR5A,
L. rhamnosus
LR2,
L. plantarum
PFC-311, and the novel
Lactobacillus
sp.
Treatment after traumatic shoulder dislocation: a systematic review with a network meta-analysis
Authors: Kavaja Lauri , Lähdeoja Tuomas , Malmivaara Antti , Paavola Mika
Published: June 2018

Objective

To review and compare treatments (1) after primary traumatic shoulder dislocation aimed at minimising the risk of chronic shoulder instability and (2) for chronic post-traumatic shoulder instability.

Design

Intervention systematic review with random effects network meta-analysis and direct comparison meta-analyses.

Data sources

Electronic databases (Ovid MEDLINE, Cochrane Clinical Trials Register, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, Ovid MEDLINE Epub Ahead of Print, In-Process & Other Non-Indexed Citations, Ovid MEDLINE Daily, DARE, HTA, NHSEED, Web of Science) and reference lists were searched from inception to 15 January 2018.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Randomised trials comparing any interventions either after a first-time, traumatic shoulder dislocation or chronic post-traumatic shoulder instability, with a shoulder instability, function or quality of life outcome.

Results

Twenty-two randomised controlled trials were included. There was moderate quality evidence suggesting that labrum repair reduced the risk of future shoulder dislocation (relative risk 0.15; 95% CI 0.03 to 0.8, p=0.026), and that with non-surgical management 47% of patients did not experience shoulder redislocation. Very low to low-quality evidence suggested no benefit of immobilisation in external rotation versus internal rotation. There was low-quality evidence that an open procedure was superior to arthroscopic surgery for preventing shoulder redislocations.

Conclusions

There was moderate-quality evidence that half of the patients managed with physiotherapy after a first-time traumatic shoulder dislocation did not experience recurrent shoulder dislocations. If chronic instability develops, surgery could be considered. There was no evidence regarding the effectiveness of surgical management for post-traumatic chronic shoulder instability.
Measuring progress towards Sustainable Development Goal 3.8 on universal health coverage in Kenya
Authors: Barasa Edwine , Nguhiu Peter , McIntyre Di
Published: June 2018

Background

The inclusion of universal health coverage (UHC) as a health-related Sustainable Development Goal has cemented its position as a key global health priority. We aimed to develop a summary measure of UHC for Kenya and track the country’s progress between 2003 and 2013.

Methods

We developed a summary index for UHC by computing the geometrical mean of indicators for the two dimensions of UHC, service coverage (SC) and financial risk protection (FRP). The SC indicator was computed as the geometrical mean of preventive and treatment indicators, while the financial protection indicator was computed as a geometrical mean of an indicator for the incidence of catastrophic healthcare expenditure, and the impoverishing effect of healthcare payments. We analysed data from three waves of two nationally representative household surveys.

Findings

The weighted summary indicator for SC increased from 27.65% (27.13%–28.14%) in 2003 to 41.73% (41.34%–42.12%) in 2013, while the summary indicator for FRP reduced from 69.82% (69.11%–70.51%) in 2003 to 63.78% (63.55%–63.82%) in 2013. Inequities were observed in both these indicators. The weighted summary measure of UHC increased from 43.94% (95% CI 43.48% to 44.38%) in 2003 to 51.55% (95% CI 51.29% to 51.82%) in 2013.

Conclusion

Significant gaps exist in Kenya’s quest to achieve UHC. It is imperative that targeted health financing and other health sector reforms are made to achieve this goal. Such reforms should be focused on both, rather than on only either, of the dimensions of UHC.
Stress and its causes in UK gastroenterologists: results of a national survey by the British Society of Gastroenterology
Authors: Gleeson Dermot , O’Shea Christopher , Ellison Howard , Tham Tony C , Douds Andrew C , Goddard Andrew F
Published: June 2018

Aim

Evaluation of stress and its causes in UK gastroenterologists,

Design

Questionnaire emailed to all 1932 medical members of the British Society of Gastroenterology.

Results

Of 567 respondents (29%), 107 (20%) graded their stress level as 4 or 5 out of 5. Stress levels correlated inversely with self-reported happiness levels (r=−0.60; p<0.001) and with hours slept per night (r=−0.23; p<0.01) and correlated directly with % time off-duty thinking about work (r=0.46; p<0001) and with proportion of nights with broken sleep (r=0.30; p<0.01). Due to stress over the past year, 21% of respondents reported one of the following: consulting their general practitioner (7%), attending occupational health (5%), taking planned time off (7%), taking anxiolytics/antidepressants (6%) and considering suicide (5.5%). These respondents had higher stress and lower happiness levels than the remainder. Stress levels were higher in women and in those working full time but had no other demographic associations.

The main causes of stress were excessive clinical work (ranked highest by 47% and most commonly patient-related administration), working conditions beyond control (ranked highest by 15% and most commonly inadequate information technology systems, workspace and secretarial staff) and conflict (ranked highest by 9%). Of eight potential factors, happiness with work showed the closest associations with overall happiness (positive) and overall stress (negative) levels. Talking to someone at work about stress was ranked difficult or impossible by 35%. The highest ranked suggested solutions were relief from some duties and mentoring.

Conclusions

Stress is common and has objective correlates in UK gastroenterologists. The main cause is excessive workload.
Effects of golf training on cognition in older adults: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Shimada Hiroyuki , Lee Sangyoon , Akishita Masahiro , Kozaki Koichi , Iijima Katsuya , Nagai Kumiko , Ishii Shinya , Tanaka Masamichi , Koshiba Hitomi , Tanaka Tomoki , Toba Kenji
Published: June 2018

Background

Although research indicates that a physically active lifestyle has the potential to prevent cognitive decline and dementia, the optimal type of physical activity/exercise remains unclear. The present study aimed to determine the cognitive benefits of a golf-training programme in community-dwelling older adults.

Methods

We conducted a randomised controlled trial between August 2016 and June 2017 at a general golf course. Participants included 106 Japanese adults aged 65 and older. Participants were randomly assigned to either a 24-week (90–120 min sessions/week) golf-training group or a health education control group. Postintervention changes in Mini-mental State Examination (MMSE) and National Centre for Geriatrics and Gerontology-Functional Assessment Tool scores were regarded as primary outcome measures. Secondary outcome measures included changes in physical performance and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) scores.

Results

A total of 100 participants (golf training, n=53; control, n=47) completed the assessments after the 24-week intervention period. The adherence to the golf programme was 96.2% (51/53 participants). Analysis using linear mixed models revealed that the golf training group exhibited significantly greater improvements in immediate logical memory (p=0.033), delayed logical memory (p=0.009) and composite logical memory (p=0.013) scores than the control group. However, no significant changes in MMSE, word memory, Trail Making Test or Symbol Digital Substitution Test scores were observed. In addition, no significant changes in grip strength, walking speed or GDS were observed.

Conclusions

Golf-based exercise interventions may improve logical memory in older adults, but no significant changes in other cognitive tests. Further follow-up investigations are required to determine whether the observed effects are associated with delayed onset of mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease in older adults.

Trial registration number

UMIN-CTR UMIN000024797; Pre-results.
Psychosocial and clinical outcomes of percutaneous versus surgical pulmonary valve implantation
Authors: Andresen Brith , Døhlen Gaute , Diep Lien My , Lindberg Harald , Fosse Erik , Andersen Marit Helen
Published: June 2018

Objective

This prospective non-randomised study was performed to compare the psychosocial function and clinical outcomes following surgical and percutaneous implantation of a pulmonary valve at 3 months and 1 year after treatment.

Methods

All patients were consecutively admitted for treatment by either method from June 2011 to October 2014. The data of 20 patients treated with the percutaneous technique and 14 patients treated with open heart surgery were compared. Psychosocial function was measured by the Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA). We used linear mixed-effect models to investigate group changes between the psychosocial function and clinical data of 34 patients with congenital pulmonary valve disease.

Results

A significant difference in favour of the percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation group was observed regarding the ASEBA scores, specifically in the Thought problems subscale at 1 year (p=0.015), Attention problems subscale at 3 months (p=0.016) and 1 year (p=0.007) after treatment. After adjustment for the right ventricle to pulmonary artery pressure gradient at 3 months, a significant change in the Attention problems subscale (p=0.038) was noted in the percutaneous group. The New York Heart Association functional score significantly improved in both groups. The measured right ventricle to pulmonary artery pressure gradient was reduced significantly in both groups at 1 year.

Conclusions

Both methods led to significant clinical improvement. Thought and attention problems such as intrusive behaviour significantly decreased only in patients who underwent the percutaneous procedure. Complications as reintervention, bleeding and arrhythmia were only observed in the open surgery group.
How to do it: setting up a PrEP service in an integrated sexual reproductive health service setting
Authors: Knapper Carys , Birley Humphrey , Couzens Zoe , Jones Adam Thomas , Parker Irene
Published: June 2018

Pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV (PrEP) has been shown to reduce transmission of HIV in a number of trials; however, there is limited evidence regarding the optimal way to deliver PrEP through pre-existing UK services, particularly through fully integrated drop-in sexual health service models. PrEP in the form of Truvada was launched in Wales in July 2017. We set up a PrEP service to be delivered via our drop-in integrated sexual reproductive health service. In the first 5 months of PrEP service provision, we found unforeseen levels of comorbidity, polypharmacy and renal impairment in our cohort of PrEP patients. As a result, we have altered our service model and all patients are now followed up in booked appointment PrEP clinics run by members of the HIV team. Those patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 60–70 mL/min or with eGFR of 60–80 mL/min and with comorbidities impacting on renal function are monitored every 4–6 weeks initially, and PrEP has been incorporated into our pre-existing virtual HIV renal clinic for discussion with a renal physician. The PrEP team clinicians report that monitoring and managing the PrEP cohort is now easier in its appointment-only format, although some patients have reported that they would prefer a drop-in system.
Elevated plasma levels of TIMP-3 are associated with a higher risk of acute respiratory distress syndrome and death following severe isolated traumatic brain injury
Authors: Hendrickson Carolyn M , Gibb Stuart L , Miyazawa Byron Y , Keating Sheila M , Ross Erin , Conroy Amanda S , Calfee Carolyn S , Pati Shibani , Cohen Mitchell J
Published: June 2018

Background

Complications after injury, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), are common after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and associated with poor clinical outcomes. The mechanisms driving non-neurologic organ dysfunction after TBI are not well understood. Tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP-3) is a regulator of matrix metalloproteinase activity, inflammation, and vascular permeability, and hence has plausibility as a biomarker for the systemic response to TBI.

Methods

In a retrospective study of 182 patients with severe isolated TBI, we measured TIMP-3 in plasma obtained on emergency department arrival. We used non-parametric tests and logistic regression analyses to test the association of TIMP-3 with the incidence of ARDS within 8 days of admission and in-hospital mortality.

Results

TIMP-3 was significantly higher among subjects who developed ARDS compared with those who did not (median 2810 pg/mL vs.2260 pg/mL, p=0.008), and significantly higher among subjects who died than among those who survived to discharge (median 2960 pg/mL vs.2080 pg/mL, p<0.001). In an unadjusted logistic regression model, for each SD increase in plasma TIMP-3, the odds of ARDS increased significantly, OR 1.5 (95% CI 1.1 to 2.1). This association was only attenuated in multivariate models, OR 1.4 (95% CI 1.0 to 2.0). In an unadjusted logistic regression model, for each SD increase in plasma TIMP-3, the odds of death increased significantly, OR 1.7 (95% CI 1.2 to 2.3). The magnitude of this association was greater in a multivariate model adjusted for markers of injury severity, OR 1.9 (95% CI 1.2 to 2.8).

Discussion

TIMP-3 may play an important role in the biology of the systemic response to brain injury in humans. Along with clinical and demographic data, early measurements of plasma biomarkers such as TIMP-3 may help identify patients at higher risk of ARDS and death after severe isolated TBI.

Level of evidence

III.
Theoretical study on the acidities of pyrrole, indole, carbazole and their hydrocarbon analogues in DMSO
Authors: Ariche Berkane , Rahmouni Ali
Published: June 2018

SMD and IEF-PCM continuum solvation models have been used, in combination with three quantum chemistry methods (B3LYP, M062X, and CBS-QB3), to study the acidities of pyrrole, indole, and carbazole, as well as their hydrocarbon analogues in DMSO, following a direct thermodynamic method. Theoretical parameters such as aromaticity indices (HOMA and SA), molecular electrostatic potential (MEP), and atomic charges have been calculated using B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory. Calculated pKa values indicate that there is generally good agreement with experimental data, with all deviations being less than the acceptable error for directly calculated pKa values. The M062X functional combined with the SMD solvation model provided the most accurate pKa values. The MEP surfaces clearly show the electron density change accompanying the deprotonation process and explain the relative stability of conjugate bases. The HOMA aromaticity indices seem to be directly related to acidity strength. The collected data have been used to elucidate the pKa trends for the series of molecules under consideration.
Blockade of prelimbic glutamate receptor reduces the reinforcing effect of morphine
Authors: Aboutalebi Fateme , Alaei Hojjatallah , Oryan Shahrbanoo , Radahmadi Maryam
Published: June 2018

The prelimbic cortex (PrL) as a part of the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) plays a crucial role in drug addiction. Previous studies have shown that glutamatergic transmission through the NMDA and AMPA receptors plays an important role in morphine rewarding properties. In this study, we evaluated the effect of glutamate receptors blockade within the PrL on morphine self-administration. Male Wistar rats were randomly selected and divided into 7 groups. Trained rats were placed in self-administration apparatus, where they pressed an active lever for receiving morphine (5 mg/mL) in test groups and saline in saline group during 11 consecutive days for 2 h per session. The effects of intra-prelimbic AMPA receptor antagonist (CNQX; 0.5 and 2.5 μg/0.5 μL) and the NMDA antagonist (AP5; 0.1 and 1 μg/0.5 μL) on self-administration were tested. Our results demonstrated that intra-prelimbic injection of different doses of CNQX and AP5, and co-administration of these 2 drugs before self-administration significantly decreased active lever pressing compared with morphine group (p < 0.001). Also, the number of self-infusion significantly decreased in test groups compared with morphine group (p < 0.001). These findings suggest that a reduction in PrL glutamatergic output can modulate morphine reinforcement.
Big Jets model with CPT invariance and dynamics of expansion with quantum Yang–Mills gravity
Authors: Hsu Jong-Ping , Hsu Leonardo , Katz Daniel
Published: June 2018

Based on particle physics, the fundamental CPT invariance suggests a Big Jets model for the beginning of the universe, in which two oppositely directed jets evolved into a gigantic “matter half-universe” and a gigantic “antimatter half-universe” after annihilation and decay processes. In the geometric-optics limit, quantum Yang–Mills gravity with [Formula: see text] translational gauge symmetry in flat spacetime leads to an effective metric tensor in the Hamilton–Jacobi equation for macroscopic objects. This effective metric tensor does not exist in the wave equations of quantum particles. For cosmological expansion, we assume that an “effective metric tensor” for spacetime geometry based on Yang–Mills gravity corresponds to the usual FLRW form. Dynamical equations of expansion for the matter half-universe are obtained and solved. The time-dependent scale factors and the estimated age of the universes, [Formula: see text] yr, based on Yang–Mills gravity are consistent with experiments. CPT invariance implies that the same evolution process and dynamics of cosmic expansion also hold for the distant “antimatter half-universe”.
A Dual-Population Evolutionary Algorithm Adapting to Complementary Evolutionary Strategy
Authors: Li Kangshun , Gu Fahui , Li Wei , Huang Ying
Published: June 2018

Optimization problems widely exist in scientific research and engineering practice, which have been one of the research hotshots and difficulties in intelligent computing. The single swarm intelligence optimization algorithms often show such defects as searching stagnation, low accuracy of convergence, part optimum and poor generalization ability when facing the increasingly sophisticated optimization problems. In the study of multiple population, the choice of evolution strategy often has great influence on the performance of the algorithm, and this paper puts forward a kind of dual-population evolutionary algorithm adapting to complementary evolutionary strategy (DPCEDT) based on the study of differential evolution algorithm, teaching and learning-based optimization algorithm. The simulation results show that the algorithm performs better than the TLBO-DE, HDT and DPDT and some other algorithms do in most test functions. It suggests that the complementary evolutionary strategies are more advantageous than other evolutionary strategies in dual-population evolutionary algorithms.