bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Long-Term Treatment with T-PEMF on Forearm Muscle Activation and Motor Function in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Jensen Bente Rona , Malling Anne Sofie Bøgh , Morberg Bo Mohr , Gredal Ole , Bech Per , Wermuth Lene
Published: August 2018

Bipolar pulsed electromagnetic stimulation applied to the brain (T-PEMF) is a non-pharmacological treatment which has been shown to stimulate nerve growth, attenuate nerve abnormalities, and improve microcirculation. We report on a 62-year-old, medically well-treated man with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease. He was treated with T-PEMF, 30 min per day for three 8-week periods separated by two 1-week breaks. The disease made his handwriting impossible to read mainly due to small letters and lack of fluency. Forearm EMG measured during standardized conditions showed an involuntary spiky EMG pattern with regular burst activity (on his left side) at baseline. The intervention normalized the handwriting and forearm EMG. The UPDRS-motor score decreased from 25 to 17, and UPDRS-II-handwriting decreased from a pre-intervention value of 3 to 0 after the intervention. Finally, the patient reported improved fine motor function, less muscle stiffness, less muscle cramps and tingling, and less fatigue during the day in response to the T-PEMF treatment. The improved handwriting lasted for approximately 3 months after the treatment. Our results should be considered as preliminary, and large-scale, controlled studies are recommended to elucidate the therapeutic potential of long-term treatment with T-PEMF.
A Case of Nonalcoholic Marchiafava-Bignami Disease with Left-Right Differential Agraphia of Chinese Characters
Authors: Takahashi Nobuhiro , Kawamura Mimpei , Kobayashi Yasutaka
Published: August 2018

We report a 68-year-old right-handed female who was admitted to our hospital complaining chiefly of incontinence and decreased activity. Her brain images showed characteristics of Marchiafava-Bignami disease, such as symmetrical abnormal signals localized in the corpus callosum. The patient had no drinking habits. Her past medical history included total gastric resection to treat gastric cancer. On hospital admission she was markedly underweight. This appeared to be a rare case of Marchiafava-Bignami disease not attributable to heavy drinking and occurring in a state of malnutrition. Evaluation of callosal dissociation symptoms produced findings indicative of such symptoms. She showed a marked difficulty in writing dictated single words and short sentences in Japanese alphabetic characters, especially with her left hand. In contrast, writing dictated words in Chinese characters (also used in written Japanese) was affected in both hands, with different types of dysgraphia seen in the right and left hands. The agraphia in the left hand seen in this patient appears to have occurred as a result of the language faculty of the left hemisphere failing to be transmitted to the right brain, while agraphia in the right hand may have occurred as a result of spatial processing information in the right hemisphere failing to be transmitted to the left hemisphere.
MicroRNA-138 Aggravates Inflammatory Responses of Macrophages by Targeting SIRT1 and Regulating the NF-κB and AKT Pathways
Authors: Bai Xiao-Zhi , Zhang Ju-Lei , Liu Yang , Zhang Wei , Li Xiao-Qiang , Wang Ke-Jia , Cao Meng-Yuan , Zhang Jia-Ning , Han Fu , Shi Ji-Hong , Hu Da-Hai 
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: With increased understanding of sepsis, mortality is decreasing. However, there is still a lack of effective therapeutic strategy. The inflammatory response of macrophages is critical during sepsis. Methods: Macrophages were stimulated with LPS. Western blotting and qRT-PCR were used to detect inflammatory responses. Then, the inhibitor of microRNA-138 was transfected and Western blotting, qRT-PCR, H&E staining and ELISA were used to verify the role of microRNA-138 in inflammation. Then target gene prediction databases were used to predict the potential target of microRNA-138. Both animal and cell models under LPS challenges were established to verify the regulation of SIRT1 and microRNA-138 during inflammation. Results: The present study showed that microRNA-138 was increased in macrophages stimulated with LPS. Additionally, the NF-κB and AKT pathways were both activated. The pre-treatment of microRNA-138 inhibitor decreased inflammatory factors, downregulated the NF-κB pathway, activated the AKT pathway and protected against organ damage in mice challenged with LPS. SIRT1 was demonstrated as a potential target of microRNA-138In macrophages stimulated with LPS, the inhibition effect of microRNA-138 inhibitor on inflammation was lost by SIRT1 siRNA pre-treatment. In the animal model, the protective effect of microRNA-138 antagomir disappeared in SIRT1 knockout mice. Conclusion: We demonstrated that miR-138 participated in the inflammatory process by inhibiting SIRT1 and activating the NF-κB pathway.
Pigment Epithelium-Derived Factor and its Phosphomimetic Mutant Induce JNK-Dependent Apoptosis and P38-Mediated Migration Arrest
Authors: Konson Alexander , Pradeep Sunila , D’Acunto Cosimo Walter , Seger Rony
Published: August 2018

Background/Aims: Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) is a potent endogenous inhibitor of angiogenesis, and a promising anticancer agent. We have previously shown that PEDF can be phosphorylated, and that distinct phosphorylations differentially regulate its physiological functions. We also demonstrated that triple phosphomimetic mutant (EEE-PEDF), has significantly increased antiangiogenic activity, and is much more efficient than WT-PEDF in inhibiting neovascularization and tumor growth. The enhanced antiangiogenic effect was associated with a direct ability to facilitate apoptosis of tumor-residing endothelial cells (EC), and subsequently, disruption of intratumoral vascularization. In the present report, we elucidated the molecular mechanism by which EEE-PEDF exerts more profound effects at the cellular level. Methods: Here we used Western blotting, as well as in vitro binding, proliferation, apoptosis and migration assays to follow the signaling components responsible for the PEDF and EEE-PEDF effects. Results: We found that EEE-PEDF suppresses EC proliferation due to caspase-3-dependent apoptosis, and also inhibits migration of the EC much better than WT-PEDF. Although WT-PEDF and EEE-PEDF did not affect proliferation and did not induce apoptosis of cancer cells, these agents efficiently inhibited cancer cell motility, with EEE-PEDF showing stronger effect. The stronger activity of EEE-PEDF was correlated to a better binding to laminin receptors. Furthermore, the proapoptotic and antimigratory activities of WT-PEDF and EEE-PEDF were found respectively regulated by differential activation of two distinct MAPK pathways, namely JNK and p38. We show that JNK and p38 phosphorylation is much higher in cells treated with EEE-PEDF. JNK leads to apoptosis of ECs, while p38 leads to antimigratory effect in both EC and cancer cells. Conclusion: These results reveal the molecular signaling mechanism by which the phosphorylated PEDF exerts its stronger antiangiogenic, antitumor activities.
The Voice from the 10th Row: Carl Weber and the Berliner Ensemble
Authors: Jakovljević Branislav , Harman Keara , Hunter Michael , Lyons Jamie , Mantoan Lindsey , Matić Ljubiša , Murphy Ciara , Pohlmann Jens , Tacata Ryan , Vittori Giulia
Published: August 2018

During his time working with the Berliner Ensemble, Carl Weber observed firsthand Brecht’s techniques as he called out directions to his actors from the 10th row. Weber, groundbreaking theatre director, actor, scholar, and pedagogue, gave a series of interviews during his final years with a group of faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students at Stanford University, reflecting on the artistic processes of the Berliner Ensemble and its legacy.
Gallows Hospitality: Visiting Hangman Takuzō’s Garden Theatre
Authors: Jackson Reginald
Published: August 2018

How does hospitality look and feel at a performed hanging? On a nightly basis, Japanese performance artist Hangman Takuzō would hang himself in his Tokyo garden. For a small fee, audience members witnessed the hangings, but were also welcomed as guests, invited to share refreshments, eroding the border between morbid performance ritual and everyday gestures of fellowship.
“What Shall We Do?”: Kathy Change, Soomi Kim, and Asian Feminist Performance on Campus
Authors: Huang Vivian L.
Published: August 2018

Soomi Kim performed as Asian political radical Kathy Change in the Staging Asian America performance/lecture series at Harvard University in spring 2017. Kim’s performance provokes timely political questions about stereotypes of gendered Asian docility and suggests that the ephemerality of Asian and feminine dissidence is all but erased in official institutional spaces. Performance, then, is the medium through which Asian feminine presence persists and survives.
Animals “Я” Us: Egomorphism in/for Science and Environmental Education
Authors: Monteiro Rute , Reis Giuliano
Published: August 2018

We argue for the notion ofegomorphismas an inexorable discursive element in/for children’s interspecies encounters mediated by nature interpreters. We do so by examining the discourses of a public environmental educator in Canada and a dolphin trainer in a marine park in Portugal while mediating such pedagogical experiences. Our analytical work contributes to expanding the understanding of how human–nonhuman interactions can create opportunities in science and environmental education to disrupt the notion that humans are superior and therefore removed from other animals.
Typification of Lophopogon tridentatus, an Indian endemic (Poaceae, Andropogoneae)
Authors: KARTHIGEYAN KALIYAMURTHY , MURUGAN PERUMAL
Published: August 2018

The genus Lophopogon Hackel (1887: 26) is endemic to India (Singh et al. 2015) and is represented by two species, viz. L. kingii Hook. f. (1896: 149) and L. tridentatus (Roxburgh) Hackel (1889: 254). The distribution of L. kingii is restricted to Bihar and Odisha (Chandramohan et al. 2016; Tiwari et al. 2017), whereas L. tridentatus is more widespread, distributed in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. (Bor 1960; Singh & Deshpande 1980; Sur 2004; Kabeer et al. 2009). On critical study and survey of literature, it was found that the name L. tridentatus needs to be typified.
Tackling the Paepalanthus elongatus complex (Eriocaulaceae) in central Brazil: nomenclatural changes and description of a new species from Goiás
Authors: TROVÓ MARCELO
Published: August 2018

In Paepalanthus ser. Dimeri, one of the few groups of Eriocaulaceae with dimerous flowers, the poorly understood circumscription of Paepalanthus elongatus and its numerous infraspecific taxa challenge the delimitation of the remaining taxa and distorts the group’s actual diversity. In order to clarify the taxonomy of the group in central Brazil, nomenclatural and taxonomic changes are proposed. Paepalanthus cassiae is described based on specimens usually misidentified as P. elongatus, as well as specimens collected on recent field trips. The new species is easily distinguished from P. elongatus by its smaller habit, dark castaneous leaf sheath, and golden to pale straw-colored involucral bracts, twice as long as the floral disc. Paepalanthus longibracteatus and P. niger are raised to species status based on P. elongatus varieties briefly described by Harold Moldenke. Detailed descriptions are provided for these species. The three species detailed occur in the vicinities of the recently extended Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park. Details of the species’ etymology, distribution, biology, conservation status, and morphological variation, along with illustrative photographs, are provided. Paepalanthus elongatus var. glabrescens is treated as a new synonym of P. elongatus var. elongatus.
Description of Dermea persica (Dermateaceae, Helotiales), a new asexual Ascomycete from Iran, and an updated key to Dermea species
Authors: MEHRABI MEHDI , ASGARI BITA , WIJAYAWARDENE NALIN N. , HYDE KEVIN D.
Published: August 2018

We found one specimen of Dermea on dead branches of an unknown tree in Arasbaran forests of Iran in 2015. Based on phylogenetic analysis of combined ITS, LSU, SSU sequence data, as well as morphological observations, a new species of Dermea, D. persica, is described and illustrated here. This species, the only species of Dermea lacking a sexual morph, is mainly characterized by beaked pycnidia, hyaline to pale brown at the base and dark brown at the apex, opening by a circular ostiole, discrete or integrated conidiogenous cells with a minute periclinal wall thickening and falcate, aseptate conidia, 20–25(–30) × 2.5–3.5 µm, and lacking microconidia. The relatedness between D. persica and its close relatives is discussed. An updated key to Dermea species is also provided.
A new species of Palaeocarya (Juglandaceae) from the Ningming Basin in Guangxi, South China
Authors: CHEN YUNFA , WANG HONGSHAN , LIUFU YONGQING , HU QIAN , FU QIONGYAO , XIE ZHIMING
Published: August 2018

A new species of fossil winged fruits of Palaeocarya (Juglandaceae) is recognized from the Oligocene Ningming Formation in Guangxi, South China. The fruits of Palaeocarya huashanensis sp. nov. consist of a trilobate wing with an oblong median lobe, pinnate and eucamptodromous lobe venation, a hispid nutlet, and a very short pedicel. This new species, along with other four species reported previously from the same locality, represents the Oligocene Palaeocarya occurrence in the lowest latitude and provides additional evidence of diversity of Juglandaceae in the Paleogene in South China, and new data for the investigation of the origin and evolution of the tribe Engelhardieae.
Review of Poecilimon species with inflated pronotum: description of four new taxa within an acoustically diverse group
Authors: KAYA SARP , CHOBANOV DRAGAN , HELLER KLAUS-GERHARD , YAHYAOĞLU ÖZGÜL
Published: August 2018

Poecilimon Fischer (Orthoptera, Tettigoniidae) consists of about 130 species and a functional taxonomy of the genus requires arranging species into phylogenetic groups. However, this is a task that requires detailed empirical testing. This paper documents data on Poecilimon species with an inflated pronotum. The Poecilimon (Poecilimon) inflatus group is a lineage ranging along a narrow zone in the south-west corner of Anatolia and in Crete plus some other Aegean islands. By producing data of morphology and calling songs of males and responding songs of females the composition and intra-group diversity of P. inflatus group are studied. Both morphology and male calling and female responding songs, exhibited a considerable intra-group diversity. In the light of data obtained the following nomenclatural changes were made. The genus Parapoecilimon Karabağ, 1975 syn. n. is synonymised with Poecilimon Fischer and Parapoecilimon antalyaensis Karabağ, 1975 is given a new combination, Poecilimon antalyaensis (Karabağ, 1975) comb. n. Four new taxa are described in the group: (i) Poecilimon isopterus sp.n.; (ii) Poecilimon inflatus lyciae subsp. n.; (iii) Poecilimon antalyaensis myrae subsp. n., and (iv) Poecilimon antalyaensis anemurium subsp. n. The Poecilimon (P.) inflatus species group consists of the following species: (i) Poecilimon inflatus Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1891; (ii) Poecilimon martinae Heller, 2004; (iii) Poecilimon cretensis Werner, 1903; (iv) Poecilimon antalyaensis (Karabağ, 1975) comb. n.; (v) Poecilimon bilgeri Karabağ, 1953 and (vi) Poecilimon isopterus sp.n. The species group is defined by a combination of characters including the pronotum inflated in metazona and a male cerci mostly black in their apical 1/2–1/3. The male calling song has typically two types of short syllables and the females respond acoustically with very short latency times. By using combination of morphology and song data we suggest three main lineages in the group: (i) P. bilgeri, (ii) P. antalyaensis and (iii) the other four species.
Contribution to the genus Okinawepipona Yamane (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae) from Vietnam, with description of a new species
Authors: NGUYEN LIEN THI PHUONG , NGUYEN HA THI THU , BOZDOĞAN HAKAN
Published: August 2018

A new species of the genus Okinawepipona Yamane from Vietnam is described and figured: Okinawepipona yty Nguyen, sp. nov. (northern Vietnam). Biology of O. yty Nguyen, sp. nov. and O. nigra Nguyen & Xu, 2014 is recorded. A key to the four species known in the genus is provided.
Contribution to the knowledge on the spider wasps genus Morochares Banks, 1934 (Hymenoptera: Pompilidae) from China
Authors: LOKTIONOV VALERY M. , LELEJ ARKADY S. , LIU JING-XIAN
Published: August 2018

Five species of the genus Morochares Banks, 1934 are reported from China, four of them are described and illustrated as new species: M. sinica Loktionov & Lelej, sp. nov. (Guangdong, Hainan), M. wahisi Loktionov & Lelej, sp. nov. (Hainan), M. wolfi Loktionov & Lelej, sp. nov. (Guangdong) and M. xuzaifui Loktionov, Lelej & Liu, sp. nov. (Zhejiang, Guangdong). The genus Morochares is newly recorded from mainland China. A key to the females of the Chinese species is given.
Cold-water corals off Angola as refuge for a new Aeginella species (Crustacea: Amphipoda: Caprellidae)
Authors: ZETTLER MICHAEL L. , FREIWALD ANDRÉ , GUERRA-GARCÍA JOSÉ M.
Published: August 2018

A new species of caprellid amphipod, Aeginella corallina sp. nov., is described from cold-water corals off Angola. This is the first observation of this genus in the South-Atlantic. The taxon is fully described and figured and is compared with the only known species of the genus, A. spinosa, occurring in deep waters of the northern hemisphere. Both species can be clearly differentiated on the basis of the following characters: (1) pereonite 1 is provided with a large dorsal acute projection in A. spinosa, while this projection is lacking in A. corallina; (2) gnathopod 2 propodus has an acute projection distally which is lacking in A. corallina; (3) the palm of the gnathopod 2 propodus in males is densely setose and it is provided with two distal projections in A. corallina while it is scarcely setose and with less developed projections in A. spinosa; (4) distal article of the mandibular palp is provided by a setal formula of 1-x-1, being x=10-12, in A. spinosa, while in A. corallina x=2-3, and the formula 1-x-1 is not so evident and it could be considered as 1-x-0. (Zoobank: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:act:3D7EB67D-88F2-40D8-99C1-7D62F44F7163)
Review of the genus Hylcalosia Fischer (Hymenoptera, Braconidae, Alysiinae), with description of four new species from China
Authors: ZHU JIACHEN , VAN ACHTERBERG CORNELIS , CHEN XUE-XIN
Published: August 2018

Four new species of Hylcalosia Fischer are described and illustrated from China, i.e., H. carinata sp. nov., H. melasaraia sp. nov., H. poricrenulata sp. nov., and H. verticalis sp. nov. Hylcalosia sutchanica Belokobylskij, 1992, is a new record for China. A key to the known species of Hylcalosia Fischer is provided.
Notes on the taxonomy of poorly known Gryllacrididae (Stenopelmatoidea) from Brunei Darussalam, Borneo
Authors: TAN MING KAI , WAHAB RODZAY BIN HAJI ABDUL
Published: August 2018

Gryllacrididae, or raspy crickets, belong to the monophyletic clade Stenopelmatoidea, and have complex taxonomy. Many genera require revision, including the ones from Southeast Asia. Orthopteran surveys in Kuala Belalong, Brunei Darussalam, Borneo led to the discovery of a new species of apterous gryllacridid from Brunei Darussalam: Melaneremus? bellus sp. nov. We also redescribe Phlebogryllacris venosa (Walker, 1869) and provide images of this species of both live and preserved specimens. In the process of describing, specimens from morphologically similar genera were also examined. We provide some notes on these genera to aid future taxonomic studies.
Is Women’s Fear of Crime Fear of Sexual Assault? A Test of the Shadow of Sexual Assault Hypothesis in a Sample of Swedish University Students
Authors: Mellgren Caroline , Ivert Anna-Karin
Published: August 2018

Prior research shows that women’s higher fear of crime compared with men can largely be explained by women’s fear of rape. Whether women’s higher fear can also be explained by fear of nonviolent sexual harassment has not been explored. This study tested the shadow of sexual assault hypothesis in a sample of almost 3,000 Swedish university students. Our results confirm previous tests of the shadow thesis on the effect of fear of rape. In addition, we show that fear of sexual harassment also explained differences in fear between men and women. Based on the findings, we recommend that strategies to reduce sexual violence should focus on the entire continuum of violence against women.
Mental Health and Disability Pension Onset
Authors: Tvete Ingunn Fride , Bjørner Trine , Skomedal Tor
Published: August 2018

Introduction:

In Norway, disability pension (DP) has been more prevalent over the later years, with mental disorders being a frequent cause. Previous analyses have questioned whether receiving DP is beneficial for mental health by considering changes in antidepressant drug consumption. To explore this further, we examined changes in antianxiety and hypnotic drug consumption following DP onset.

Methods:

Based on national Norwegian register data, this retrospective study encompassed 8617 working-age individuals (25-50 years) who became DP during 2005 to 2013. We compared their benzodiazepines (BZD) and Z-hypnotic consumption 1 year pre- and postdisability pension onset.

Results:

About 80% of the individuals did not change their altogether benzodiazepine/Z-hypnotic consumption. Among individuals with an initial consumption ≤1 defined daily dose (DDD), 18.9% increased their consumption to above 1 DDD. Individuals in the age-group 45 to 50 versus 24 to 34 years had a lower risk of dose escalation (odds ratio [OR], 0.756, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.601-0.957). Individuals who used Z-hypnotics only had a higher risk of dose escalation compared to the joint benzodiazepine/Z-hypnotic user group (OR, 1.594, 95%CI: 1.284-1.970).

Conclusion:

In general, we cannot see that DP is associated with changes in benzodiazepine/Z-hypnotic consumption, but younger users and individuals using Z-hypnotics only had a greater risk of dose escalation compared to the older users and users with combined BZD and Z-hypnotic use.
Characteristics of glycopeptide-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from inpatients of three teaching hospitals in Warsaw, Poland
Authors: Szymanek-Majchrzak Ksenia , Mlynarczyk Andrzej , Mlynarczyk Grazyna
Published: August 2018

Background

Vancomycin is still one of the most commonly used drug for treatment of severe methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. Vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA) strains are a serious danger for public health. This study aimed to characterize healthcare-associated MRSA (HA-MRSA) strains, resistant to at least one of glycopeptide antibiotics: vancomycin (VRSA) and/or teicoplanin (TRSA), isolated at three Warsaw hospitals over a period of 17-years (1991–2007).

Methods

Among 600 HA-MRSA strains, isolated from patients with symptomatic infections, 47 were subjected to detailed analysis. In the study, mechanisms behind VRSA phenotypes were determined (E-tests, GRD-test, agar-dilution method and vanA/B detection). Characteristics of selected isolates on molecular level: i) by detection of resistance genes ermA/ermB/ermC, msrA/msrB, linA/linA’, aacA-aphD, aadD, aph(3”)-IIIa; ii) SCCmec-typing and iii) MLST-typing was done.

Results

In general population of studied strains, 11/47 (23.4%) were VRSA and 36/47 (76.6%) were resistant only to teicoplanin. All isolates exhibited van-independent mechanisms of resistance. Over 80% of isolates belonged to clonal complex CC8, with the following predominant sequence types (STs)/clones: ST247-IA/Iberian, ST241-III/Finland-UK, and ST239-III/Brazilian. Most of the isolated strains harboured ermA and aacA-aphD genes, encoding additional resistance to macrolides, lincosamides, streptogramin B, and majority of aminoglycosides. They occurred also in Polish VRSA/TRSA population over the period, which was subjected for analysis: an increase in MIC values for glycopeptides, evolution in terms of the level and extent of resistance, and genetic re-assortment in epidemic clones.

Conclusions

VRSA strains isolated from patients hospitalized at three Warsaw teaching hospitals in Poland, over a period of 17-years do not pose a threat as potential donors of van genes in horizontal-gene transfer processes, but are constantly evolving and represent international epidemic clones.
Clause complexing in systemic functional lingustics – towards an alternative description
Authors: Andersen Thomas Hestbæk , Holsting Alexandra Emilie Møller
Published: August 2018

This article examines Halliday & Matthiessen’s systemic functional description of expanding clause complexing. As a perspective, their description is compared to the Cardiff Grammar’s treatment of clause combining. In particular, the article discusses the Hallidayan approach to the subordinate clause in a hypotactic clause complex: functionally speaking – and contrary to Halliday and Matthiessen’s claims – it is far from convincing that a subordinate clause upholds its functional meanings, i.e. its functions as a ‘move’ (interpersonal meaning), a ‘figure’ (experiential meaning) and a ‘message’ (textual meaning); and systemically speaking, it is problematic to see why all hypotactic clause complexes are agnates with paratactic clause complexes, and why no subordinate clauses in hypotactic clause complexes could be said to be agnate with a prepositional phrase. In the final part of the article, we shall provide principles for a solution to the problematic issues at stake in the Hallidayan approach.
Rethinking engagement
Authors: Gilbert David
Published: August 2018

People affected by health conditions bring insights and wisdom to transform healthcare – ‘jewels from the caves of suffering'. Yet traditional patient and public engagement relies on (child–parent) feedback or (adolescent–parent) ‘representative' approaches that fail to value this expertise and buffers patients' influence. This editorial outlines the emergence of ‘patient leadership' and work in the Sussex Musculoskeletal Partnership, its patient director (the first such role in the National Health Service) and a group of patient/carer partners, who are becoming equal partners in decision-making helping to reframe problems, generate insight, shift dynamics and change practice within improvement and governance work.

Declaration of interest

David Gilbert is Director of InHealth Associates Ltd, a small consultancy organisation that supports patient and public engagement.
Aftereffects of Cognitively Demanding Acute Aerobic Exercise on Working Memory
Authors: KAMIJO KEITA , ABE RYUJI
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This study examined the aftereffects of cognitively demanding acute aerobic exercise on working memory in middle-age individuals.

Methods

In a within-participants design, middle-age males (n = 28) performed a two-back task to assess working memory before, immediately after, and 30 min after the following three interventions: 1) a rest-cognition intervention, in which they performed a cognitive task on a cycle ergometer without exercising; 2) an exercise-cognition intervention, in which they simultaneously exercised on a cycle ergometer and performed a cognitive task; and 3) an exercise-only intervention, in which they only exercised on a cycle ergometer.

Results

The exercise-only intervention resulted in increased hit rate and decreased reaction times and intraindividual variability on correct rejection trials, suggesting that simple aerobic exercise had a beneficial impact on working memory. By contrast, the exercise-cognition intervention resulted in increased intraindividual variability on correct rejection trials, which is suggestive of cognitive fatigue resulting from the additional cognitive demands. Such a decline was not observed even in the rest-cognition condition.

Conclusions

Cognitive fatigue caused by additional cognitive demands during aerobic exercise may cancel beneficial postexercise effects on working memory. Cognitively demanding acute aerobic exercise appears to be less effective than simple aerobic exercise in improving executive function.
Longitudinal comparison of the humoral immune response and viral load of Porcine Circovirus Type 2 in pigs with different vaccination schemes under field conditions
Authors: Vargas-Bermudez Diana S. , Díaz Andrés , Mogollón José Darío , Jaime Jairo
Published: August 2018

Background: Porcine Circovirus type 2 (PCV2) infections are distributed worldwide and cause Porcine Circovirus Associated Disease (PCVAD). To minimize the impact of PCV2 infection on swine health and production, different vaccination schemes have been used since 2006. However, the association between vaccination schemes, virus load and disease under field conditions are not completely understood. Therefore, the objective of this study was to compare the effect of two different PCV2 vaccination schemes on the humoral response and PCV2 load in pigs after weaning under field conditions.

Methods: Two commercial pig farms (Farm A and B), endemically infected with PCV2, which were using two different PCV2 subunit vaccinations schemes for sow, gilts and piglets, were selected. We designed a longitudinal study and measured IgG levels by ELISA and virus load by quantitative PCR in pigs after weaning. Forty 3-week old piglets were randomly selected at weaning and followed for 20 weeks. IgG levels and virus loads were compared within and between farms and considered statistically different if the non-parametric Wilcoxon-test p value was lower than 0.05.

Results: We found that low virus loads were maintained in pigs from both farms regardless of the vaccination scheme used (p>0.05). However, there was significant difference in the mean IgG levels observed over time (p<0.05) while there were no significant differences in viral loads. This suggests that different humoral immune response is not associated with different virus loads observed over time.

Conclusions: These results are important because they can help to prevent PCV2 infections using different vaccination schemes to minimize the effect of PCVAD on swine health and production.
An update on the pathogenesis and diagnosis of Diamond–Blackfan anemia
Authors: Da Costa Lydie , Narla Anupama , Mohandas Narla
Published: August 2018

Diamond–Blackfan anemia (DBA) is a rare congenital hypoplastic anemia characterized by a block in erythropoiesis at the progenitor stage, although the exact stage at which this occurs remains to be fully defined. DBA presents primarily during infancy with macrocytic anemia and reticulocytopenia with 50% of cases associated with a variety of congenital malformations. DBA is most frequently due to a sporadic mutation (55%) in genes encoding several different ribosomal proteins, although there are many cases where there is a family history of the disease with varying phenotypes. The erythroid tropism of the disease is still a matter of debate for a disease related to a defect in global ribosome biogenesis. Assessment of biological features in conjunction with genetic testing has increased the accuracy of the diagnosis of DBA. However, in certain cases, it continues to be difficult to firmly establish a diagnosis. This review will focus on the diagnosis of DBA along with a description of new advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology and treatment recommendations for DBA.
An Evidence-Based Review of Dietary Supplements on Inflammatory Biomarkers in Obesity
Authors: Sánchez Jacob Cruz , de Alba Carolina Treviño , la Garza Ana Laura de
Published: August 2018

Obesity is a multifactorial chronic disease characterized by the hypertrophy and hyperplasia ofthe adipose tissue accompanied by low-grade chronic inflammation, which is in turn related to cardiometabolic diseases. The main treatment for obesity involves lifestyle changes, however, there are several factors that can prevent or impact successful weight loss in obese subjects. Recently, dietary supplements have been considered for their potential anti-inflammatory effect in obesity.Relevant literature sought in PubMed database focuses on human randomized placebo controlled trials to analyze the effect of dietary supplements on inflammatory biomarkers in obesity. However, there is a lack of existing evidence that the supplements are safe to use, and thus unfit for recommendation. Therefore, the objective of this evidence-based review is to analyze the current body of literature for evidence of the anti-inflammatory effects of dietary supplements, especially in regards to treating obesity.
A Focus on Four Popular “Functional Foods” as Part of a Strategy to Combat Metabolic Disease Through the Increased Consumption of Fruits and Vegetables
Authors: Dukhi Natisha , Taylor Myra
Published: August 2018

Fruit and vegetable consumption is on the rise as an increasing number of people recognize their health promoting effects, which are mediated through phytochemicals with disease combatting properties. The aim of this paper is to identify the potential benefits of fruits and vegetables in chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension. An electronic search of databases such as Pubmed Central, Science Direct and Web of Science from the last 5 years was conducted. Four commonly consumed edible fruit and vegetables, namely, Hypoxis hemmerocallidea (African potato), Moringa oleifera (Moringa), Persea americana (Avocado) and Psidium guajava (Guava) and their potential role in the prevention and management of metabolic syndrome and other disorders, are presented. In this narrative review plant uses extend beyond traditional medicine and include usage in food preparation, beverages, as part of fragrances, culinary flavouring, as well as cosmetic use, but more importantly have potential in contributing to the amelioration of the deleterious effects of diseases/health conditions. In addressing disease states, including metabolic syndrome and other disorders, the interest in medicinal plants continues to grow with the possibility of novel compounds and/or new drug discovery. Alternative and affordable methods of large scale harvesting of medicinal plants, as well as identification and specificity of bioactive compounds as future therapeutics are essential for sustainability.
Assessment of Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Activity, Colour and Sensory Attributes of Wood Aged “Tsipouro”
Authors: Giannakourou Maria , Stratati Irini F. , Maria Manika Efthimia , Resiti Victoria , Tataridis Panagiotis , Zoumpoulakis Panagiotis , Sinanoglou Vassilia J.
Published: August 2018

This study aimed at investigating the benefits of immersing oak sticks in the Greek pomace brandy named tsipouro, regarding its total phenolic content, antiradical-antioxidant activity, colour parameters and sensory profile. In order to induce rapid aging of tsipouro, alternative experimental conditions were applied. Results revealed that the phenolic migration from the wood to the tsipouro significantly increased both with temperature increase during aging as well as with the oak sticks /tsipouro ratio (w/v). The impact of oak wood diversity was also tested, by selecting different types of French oak (Quercus robur) and French and American oak mix (Quercus robur- Quercus alba) sticks. Results exhibited a significant effect of wood stick type on total phenolic content, antioxidant and antiradical activity, colour values and sensory attributes, especially on overall acceptance. High positive correlation among total phenolic content, antiradical and antioxidant activity and overall acceptance was found for all the extracts studied. Wood aging promoted the migration of phenolic compounds from the wood into the tsipouro, which, apart from the organoleptic characteristics, could possess health beneficial effects.
An Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices in Food Safety Among Food Handlers Engaged in Food Courts
Authors: Mohlisi Mohd Asmawi Ummi , Azureen Norehan Alissa , Salikin Khasnoorsani , Ain Syafiqah Rosdi Nur , Amira Thaqifah Abdul Munir Nur , Balqis Muhammad Basri Nurul , Ikhsan Selamat Mohamad , Md Nor Norazmir
Published: August 2018

The aim of this paperis to evaluate the aspects of knowledge, attitude, and practices about food hygiene and safety issues among food handlers who are working in food courts. A cross-sectional study was conducted at four randomly food courts in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia during June and July 2017. It involves 108 respondents that match the inclusion criteria among food handlers. The guided self-administered questionnaire; were divided into three sections which are knowledge, practices, and attitudes. After the complete questionnaireswere collected, data were entered and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software version 23.0. Positive correlations were seen between mean knowledge score and mean attitudes score (p-value=0.0240, r=0.217), between attitude score and practices score (p < 0.001, r=0.559) and between knowledge score and practices score (p value=0.049, r=0.190). The strongest correlation being between mean attitudes score and mean practices score. Respondents with low knowledge score also had the higher practices score. This paper serves as an eye-opener for policy makersas they can review and improve the knowledge, attitude and practices in food safety among food handlers in food courts and they can also help raise food safety awareness campaign and organize more targeted training in related fields of concern.
Mahua: A boon for Pharmacy and Food Industry
Authors: Jaydeep Pinakin Dave , Kumar Vikas , Kumar Ashwani , Gat Yogesh , Suri Sheenam , Sharma Kartik
Published: August 2018

Mahua (Madhuca longifolia) belongs to family sapotaceae, is known for its sweet flowers which possess a lot of ethnic values among the tribal people for the development of various fermented and non-fermented food products. The non-fermented products include halwa, meethi puri, barfi whereas fermented products include mahua daaru or mahuli. Because of its numerous phytochemical attributes traditionally it is also used as a medicine for many diseases including headache, diarrhoea, skin and eye diseases. The present review highlights and explore the composition (dry and fresh flowers), utilization, medicinal and nutritive important along with its future prospective to improve the livelihood of the tribal people with the increase chances of the employment.
Risk of Obesity Among Female School Teachers and its Associated Health Problems
Authors: Jane Monica Sarah , John Sheila , R Madhanagopal.
Published: August 2018

Obesity is considered to be a major health problem throughout the world. Factors contributing to obesity include increased intake of calorie dense foods and physical inactivity. Teachers represent one of the most important, large and growing sector of workforce in many countries. The objective of the present study was to determine risk of obesity among female school teachers along with various factors and health problems associated with it. A descriptive cum cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 female school teachers. Anthropometric measurements such as height, body weight and waist circumference were measured. BMI was calculated and blood pressure was recorded. Results indicated that 43.2% of the teachers had Grade I obesity, 20.4% had Grade II obesity and 6.6% had Grade III obesity thereby indicating obesity as a significant health problem among teachers. Factors such as age, waist circumference, intake of junk foods, physical inactivity and BMI were significantly associated with obesity. In addition, health issues such as hypertension and arthritis was also found to be associated with obesity. The study therefore recommends the need to promote healthy lifestyle for school teachers that can be achieved through appropriate health education and interventional measures.
Community diabetes nurse specialists: service evaluation to describe their professional role
Authors: McDowell Joan , Boyd Elizabeth
Published: August 2018

This paper presents a service evaluation on the role of Community Diabetes Nurse Specialists (CDNS), which was undertaken as a response to various changes. Quantitative and qualitative data were captured over 6 months. It was found that GPs refer patients to CDNSs four times more frequently than other health professionals. The clinical care of CDNSs mainly relates to diabetes education, insulin, assessment and self-management. Telehealth is used twice as frequently as face-to-face communications. The CDNSs do not refer patients onto other health professionals, but have multiple communications with other health professionals and agencies. They manage very complex clinical and social situations, using high-level clinical decision making and balancing person-centred care and patient safety. Structured patient education is being delivered. CDNSs mentor other staff and students, although their own formal professional development is very limited. To conclude, CDNSs are the end point for patient care in the community, managing complex patient situations, while adopting a person-centred approach.
Understanding venous leg ulcers
Authors: Chamanga Edwin Tapiwa
Published: August 2018

Venous leg ulcers are open lesions between the knee and the ankle joint, which occur in the presence of venous insufficiency. There are theories to explain the causes of venous insufficiency, which ultimately leads to venous hypertension and can result in leg ulceration. Although many patients present with evidence of venous hypertension, others do not, except for the manifestation of the ulcer. There are risk factors associated with venous insufficiency and a holistic approach must be taken in order to influence the management approach of venous leg ulceration. This article discusses venous insufficiency as a disease process, and explores the nursing assessment process, when assessing venous leg ulcers related to venous insufficiency.
The Study of Physical and Chemical Properties of the Water-Soluble Polymer Reagents and their Application as an Ointment
Authors: Dzhakipbekova Nagima , Sakibayeva Saule , Dzhakipbekov Erzhan , Ahmet Didar , Rzabay Saparkul , Issa Aziza , Kydyralyeva Aigul , Amantayev Eltay
Published: August 2018

The creation of new polymer reagents from their synthesis in the laboratory to their industrial production as an ointment is relatively long and expensive process. Therefore, the most promising and justified way is to expand the range of polymer reagents by modifying the already known base samples. We studied MPAA(HP)- hydrolyzed polacrylamide modified with hydrogen peroxide,, MPAA (MEA) - hydrolyzed polycrylamide modified with monoethanolamine, MPAA (TEA) - hydrolyzed polycrylamide modified with three ethanolamine polymers. A more detailed and in-depth study of them will expand the scope of application of low-toxic, affordable reagents that are of equal efficacy to the already existing ones and their application as an ointment. Polymer MPAA-HP polymacrylamide hydrolyzed NaOH with the addition of the H2O2 modifier in the ratio PAA: NaOH: H2O2 = 1: 0.4: 0.2 the hydrolysis reaction is carried out for 1.5-2 hours at temperature of 90-950C. MPAA-MEA polymer polymaracrylamide is hydrolysed with alkali with the addition of monoethanolamine modifier in the ratio of PAA: NaOH: MEA = 1: 0.4: 0.1 the hydrolysis reactions is carried out for 1.5-2 hours at temperature of 90-95°C.
The Characterization of Heterogeneous Nanocatalyst of Biohydroxyapatite-Lithium and its Application for Converting Malapari Seed Oil (Milletia pinnata L.) to Biodiesel
Authors: Nengah Simpen I. , Sutha Negara I. Made , Made Puspawati Ni
Published: August 2018

Heterogeneous nanocatalyst of biohydroxyapatite-lithium (HA-Li) has been prepared through modification of HA extracted from bovine bone waste with Li at various calcination temperatures (400-700oC). Characterizations of the heterogeneous catalysts were including surface acidity-basicity, functional groups, BET surface area, particle size, and surface morphology. Optimization of catalyst ratios (1-7%) with the best characterization was applied for converting Malapari seed oil (Milletia pinnata L.) to biodiesel. The characterization results showed that HA-Li catalyst calcinated at 600oChad the highest surface basicity and Lewis acid sites revealing specific functional group of O-Li at wavenumber of 1612.49 cm-1. BET surface area of HA-Li catalyst decreased with increased average particle size. SEM analysis suggested that morfology of catalysts formed stack of agglomerates. The highest yield of biodiesel obtained on a catalyst ratio of 5% was 88.16%. GC-MS analysis showed 10 peaks, and 5 of the peaks exhibiting the highest percentage area were identified as methyl oleic, methyl palmitic, methyl erusic, methyl stearic, and methyl linoleic.
Electrochemical Analysis of the Anti-corrosion Properties of Benzonitrile Compound on Quenched 420 Martensitic Steel in Strong Aqueous Environment
Authors: TOLULOPE LOTO. ROLAND , UCHE AYOZIE BRYAN
Published: August 2018

Investigation of the corrosion inhibition properties of benzonitrile compound on the surface degradation of quenched 420 martensitic steel in 6 M H2SO4 was evaluated through the application of potentiodynamic polarization method, micro analytical study and ATR-FTIR spectroscopic analysis. Experimental data showed optimal inhibition performance of the compound with peak inhibition efficiency of 99.4% with mixed type inhibition but dominant anodic inhibition properties. The inhibiting compound significantly influenced the thermodynamic behaviour of the steel resulting in chemisorption adsorption mechanism onto steel surface in consonance with Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models with correlation coefficients of 1 and 0.7570. The transmittance of identified functional groups of benzonitrile from ATR-FTIR spectroscopy decreased at extended wavelengths due to surface coverage and adsorption of the compound onto the steel.
Designing healthy foods – A dietetic marketing perspective
Authors: Sandvik Pernilla
Published: August 2018

Research in natural sciences often demonstrates health potential of specific foods. However, for these foods to have a beneficial effect in reality, they also need to be available, chosen, liked and eaten by consumers. To find strategies to enable an increased consumption of foods with potential health benefits, a perspective described as dietetic marketing will be elaborated upon. This is done by using the example of rye bread as a potential health beneficial component in the Swedish diet. Several potential health benefits have been shown for rye, but less research has been focused on bread from a consumer perspective. Dietetic marketing draws upon ideas from social marketing but focuses specifically on a food with potential health benefits. Here, consumers are thought to more easily adopt a behaviour if they receive benefits they consider valuable or if relevant barriers are removed. Food quality is a useful concept in identifying barriers to and opportunities for consumption. Objective quality represents, e.g., what is described as healthy and recommended by authorities as well as what is made available to consumers by food industry. Subjective quality is related to consumer perceptions of these qualities. Taste is a crucial quality criterion for consumers’ evaluation of food products. Sensory analysis is therefore used as a key methodology to bridge the gap between the product and the person. In the case of healthier rye breads, the taste was shown to be a major barrier for consumption among Swedish consumers. With the aim to increase consumption of foods with potential health benefits, a dietetic marketing perspective gives interdisciplinary insights into how industry may design products and communication in line with consumer perceptions and preferences as well as how authorities may design recommendations and guidelines to aid consumers in their food choice and guide industry in product development.