bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular characterization of arthropod-borne hematozoans in wild mammals from Brazil, Venezuela and Spain
Authors: Criado-Fornelio Angel , Buling Amelia , Casado Nieves , Gimenez Consuelo , Ruas Jeronimo , Wendt Luciana , Rosa-Farias Nara , Pinheiro Max , Rey-Valeiron Catalina , Barba-Carretero Juan
Published: July 2009

A survey of Babesia, Theileria and Hepatozoon was conducted in wild mammals, including the capybara (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris; n = 14) from Brazil, the jaguar (Panthera onca; n = 2) and crab-eating raccoon (Procyon cancrivorus; n = 4) from Venezuela, and the red deer (Cervus elaphus; n = 70), red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris; n = 5) and Eurasian pine marten (Martes martes; n = 3) from Spain. Diagnostic procedures included both microscopy and molecular methods (PCR and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene). Microscopic examination of blood smears revealed no hematozoan infections — unlike the molecular analyses. Nine Brazilian capybaras were found to be infected with Hepatozoon canis (prevalence 64%), two of which were coinfected with a previously unknown babesid (prevalence 14%) loosely related to Theileria equi (90% 18S rRNA gene similarity according to BLAS® analysis). One jaguar and one crab-eating raccoon from Venezuela were infected by H. canis. Four of the red deer were infected with theilerids (5.7% prevalence), two with Theileria sp. and two with T. annulata. One red squirrel and three pine martens were infected with Hepatozoon sp. The isolate form the red squirrel was phylogenetically related to Hepatozoon sp. reported in Spanish bank voles, whereas those infecting the pine martens were related to Hepatozoon felis reported in Spanish cats. In conclusion, the molecular findings show that some non-canid mammals are carriers of H. canis in South America, while red deer may carry T. annulata in Europe. Small mammals in Europe appear to be unlikely hosts of H. canis and H. felis.
Oncophora melanocephala (Nematoda, Camallanidae) from the chub mackerel, Scomber japonicus (Teleostei, Scombridae), caught off Madeira Island (Portugal)
Authors: Costa Graça , Freitas Nélio , Pinheiro de Carvalho Miguel , Melo-Moreira Egberto , Rigby Mark
Published: July 2009

While investigating the nematode parasites of commercial fish caught off the coast of Madeira Island (Atlantic Ocean, Portugal), we collected five specimens of Oncophora melanocephala (Rudolphi, 1819) (Nematoda, Camallanidae) infecting the chub mackerel Scomber japonicus Houttuyn. This is the first record of O. melanocephala from chub mackerel and a new geographic record. Four additional larval specimens with developing buccal capsules were found in the chub mackerel examined.
Strongyloides myopotami in ctenomyid rodents: Transition from semi-aquatic to subterranean life cycle
Authors: Rossin María , Varela Gabriela , Timi Juan
Published: July 2009

Strongyloides myopotami, a parasite of Myocastor coypus (nutria or coypu), was found during an extensive parasitological survey carried out on parasitic helminths of 5 species of subterranean rodents (tuco-tucos) belonging to the genus Ctenomys from Argentina and Uruguay. Strongyloides myopotami became known by causing “marsh itch” (also called “nutria itch” or “swimmer’s itch”), a severe rash caused by larvae that enter the skin in humans, and it is recognised as a zoonosis for people handling nutria fur. In the present study S. myopotami was found in 2 of the 5 examined species of Ctenomys (C. talarum from Argentina and C. pearsoni from Uruguay), both inhabiting the vicinity of water courses. Population descriptors of S. myopotami in C. talarum showed that a population of this parasite is well established in this rodent. The development of infective filariform larvae from eggs in the faeces of C. talarum and the prevalence of gravid parasitic females in this host can be considered as evidence of the establishment of a population of S. myopotami independent of the source population parasitizing M. coypus. Therefore, the presence of S. myopotami in these species of tuco-tucos indicates a change from a semi-aquatic to subterranean life cycle. Evidence that tuco-tucos are reservoirs for these nematodes and therefore may be a risk to human health in the areas studied is provided.
Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii indirect fluorescent antibodies in naturally- and experimentally-infected chickens (Gallus domesticus) in Thailand
Authors: Chumpolbanchorn Kamlang , Anankeatikul Pacharaporn , Ratanasak Wantanee , Wiengcharoen Jitbanjong , Andrew Thompson R. , Sukthana Yaowalark
Published: July 2009

Toxoplasma gondii infections in free-range (FR) chickens (Gallus domesticus) are potential public health risks. Antibodies for T. gondii were found in 194 out of 303 serum samples (64.03%) from FR chickens in Thailand tested by the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT, 1:16). To verify the validity of serologic data in this survey, sera from chickens experimentally infected with the RH strain of T. gondii were tested by the IFAT. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected as early as 7 days p.i., peaked at 2 weeks, and then declined by 10 weeks p.i.
Migration of cerebral sparganosis to the ipsilateral cerebellar hemisphere
Authors: Eom Ki , Kim Tae
Published: July 2009

We report the case of a 52-year-old man in whom multiple conglomerated ring-enhanced lesions in the left frontal lobe were revealed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); further, he presented with headache. Subtotal resection of the mass was performed and the histopathological diagnosis of gemistocytic astrocytoma was made. He received postoperative radiotherapy of remnant mass. Six months post-surgery, new multiple lesions were developed on the left cerebellum and the lesion yielded radiological findings that were quite similar to those of the lesion previously observed in the left frontal lobe. Total resection was performed with the aid of neuronavigation and a live yellow 10-cm-long worm with an active scolex was found. A pathologist identified the worm as a sparganum of Spirometra mansoni. This suggests that the live worm may have moved to the ipsilateral cerebellum due to the stimulus from the surgery and radiation on the frontal lobe. Although this case presented characteristic MRI findings of sparganosis, we did not conduct a serological test; therefore, we misdiagnosed sparganosis as gemistocytic astrocytoma. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the ipsilateral transtentorial migration of cerebral sparganosis.
Strongyloid nematodes in the caeca of donkeys in Henan Province, China
Authors: Bu Yanzhen , Niu Hongxing , Gasser Robin , Beveridge Ian , Zhang Luping
Published: July 2009

Thirty-four donkeys from Henan Province, China, were examined at necropsy for strongyloid nematodes in the caecum (February 2006 to January 2007). Twenty-two species, including 18 Cyathostominae (small strongyles) and 4 Strongylinae (large strongyles), were identified. The five most prevalent Cyathostominae were Cylicocyclus nassatus (73.5%), Coronocyclus labratus (70.6%), Coronocyclus labiatus (67.6%), Cyathostomum tetracanthum (61.8%) and Coronocyclus coronatus (52.9%), accounting for 70.2% of all species identified; C. labratus (124.2 ± 256.4), Cyathostomum tetracanthum (96.4 ± 210.5) and Cylicocyclus nassatus (80.9 ± 117.1) had the greatest mean abundance, whereas Strongylus vulgaris was the most prevalent (88.2%) of the Strongylinae and had the highest mean abundance (34.9 ± 37.8). The numbers of species per donkey ranged from 1 to 15 (with a median of 7.1). Only a small percentage (5.9%) of donkeys were infected by a single species, whereas the other donkeys had infections with multiple species.
Polyopisthocotylean monogeneans from carangid fishes off Queensland, Australia and New Caledonia, with a description of Heteromicrocotyloides megaspinosus sp. nov.
Authors: Barton Diane , Beaufrère Charles , Justine Jean-Lou , Whittington Ian
Published: July 2009

Gills of carangid fishes in Australian waters are dominated by a diversity of polyopisthocotylean monogeneans. This study updates current knowledge of polyopisthocotyleans from carangid hosts in waters along the Queensland coast of Australia and also off New Caledonia. The discovery of Protomicrocotyle celebesensis Yamaguti, 1953 is the first record for the genus in Australian waters and represents a new geographic location for the species, extending its distribution from Sulawesi, Indonesia and Hawaii to Australia. Furthermore, Caranx ignobilis and Carangoides fulvoguttatus are reported as new host records for P. celebesensis. Carangoides gymnostethus is recorded as a new host for Heteromicrocotyla australiensis Rohde, 1977 from a new geographic location, namely Lizard Island, Queensland. Heteromicrocotyloides mirabilis Rohde, 1977 is reported from the gills of C. fulvoguttatus off Lizard Island, Queensland representing a new geographic record. Heteromicrocotyloides megaspinosus sp. nov. is described from the gills of C. fulvoguttatus from Lizard Island, Queensland and New Caledonia. The new species is distinguished from H. mirabilis by the larger number and size of spines in the male genital corona. Gonoplasius carangis was collected from Pseudocaranx dentex at Heron Island, Queensland. Gonoplasius longirostri is synonymised with G. carangis due to overlap in measurements and similar morphology. The number of ‘dorsal pits’ in this taxon may not be a useful character because they can be cryptic and hard to see. Most hosts from which these two Gonoplasius species have been collected previously have been synonymised as Pseudocaranx dentex except Caranx ascensionis which is now considered to be C. lugubris. Our report of G. carangis from P. dentex at Heron Island, Queensland is a new geographic record.
Ultrastructure of spermatogenesis of Taenia taeniaeformis (Batsch, 1786) (Cestoda, Cyclophyllidea, Taeniidae) and comparison of spermatological characters in the family Taeniidae Ludwig, 1886
Authors: Miquel Jordi , Świderski Zdzisław , Foronda Pilar , Torres Jordi , Feliu Carlos
Published: July 2009

The ultrastructure of spermatogenesis of Taenia taeniaeformis is described for the first time by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Mature testes contain all stages of spermatogenesis; primary spermatogonia are usually situated at the periphery and mature spermatozoa in the centre of testes. The general process is similar to that described in other cestodes. Six incomplete, synchronic cytokineses occur: four mitotic and two meiotic cell divisions. All these divisions occur simultaneously, resulting in a rosette cluster of four tertiary spermatogonia, then eight quaternary spermatogonia, and subsequently sixteen primary spermatocytes. All of these enter into a growth period and their enlarged nuclei move to the periphery of cells of the rosettes. The first meiotic division forms thirty-two secondary spermatocytes and after the second meiotic division, there are sixty-four spermatids. Spermiogenesis in T. taeniaeformis corresponds to the Ba and Marchand’s Type 3 and begins with the formation of a differentiation zone in the form of a conical projection of cytoplasm delimited by a ring of arching membranes and surrounded by submembranous cortical microtubules. Within this area, there are two centrioles, orthogonally disposed, and vestigial striated rootlets. Only one of the centrioles develops a flagellum that grows externally to the cytoplasmic extension. Posteriorly, a flagellar rotation inferior to 90° occurs and the flagellum becomes parallel to the cytoplasmic extension. Later, the two processes fuse during the so-called proximodistal fusion. The nucleus elongates and moves into the cytoplasmic extension. In the final stage of spermiogenesis, a single crested body appears at the base of the differentiating spermatozoon. Finally, the ring of arching membranes constricts and the young spermatozoon detaches from the residual cytoplasm. Ultrastructural aspects of spermatogenesis are compared with that of other cestodes studied to date, particularly of the family Taeniidae.
Opecoelids (Platyhelminthes, Digenea) from the fork-tailed threadfin bream Nemipterus furcosus (Valenciennes, 1830) (Perciformes, Nemipteridae), with preliminary keys to the problematic genera Macvicaria Gibson et Bray, 1982 and Neolebouria Gibson, 1976
Authors: Bray Rodney , Justine Jean-Lou
Published: July 2009

The opecoelid species Macvicaria jagannathi (Gupta et Singh, 1985) Bijukumar, 1997 (new syn. Plagioporus deeghaensis Gupta et Gupta, 1988) and Neolebouria lineatus Aken’Ova et Cribb, 2001 are redescribed from Nemipterus furcosus, from the waters off New Caledonia. Provisional keys to the genera Macvicaria Gibson et Bray, 1982 and Neolebouria Gibson, 1976 are presented. The following new combinations are made: Macvicaria yamagutii (Gupta et Ahmad, 1977), M. puriensis (Gupta et Govind, 1984) and M. chilkai (Gupta et Govind, 1984).
A review of the genus Listropsoralges (Acari, Psoroptidae) with the descriptions of two new species
Authors: Bochkov Andre , Wauthy Georges
Published: July 2009

Mites of the genus Listropsoralges permanently parasitizing New World marsupials of the family Didelphidae are revised. An emended diagnosis of this genus, descriptions of the new species L. caluromys sp. nov. and L. faini, and a key to species based on males are provided. Listropsoralges caluromys differs from the morphologically similar L. marmosae by shorter setae se (35–37 μm long in males and 48–55 μm long in females), by female setae h3 not being thickened and being subequal in the length to setae ps2 and ps3 (12–14 and 9–10 μm long, respectively) and by pretarsi III represented by only remnants of the pretarsal stalk in both sexes. L. faini sp. nov. (only males are known) differs from males of the morphologically similar L. monodelphis by having homogeneous ornamentation of the hysteronotal shield and by setae h2 and h3 not being positioned on distinct fleshy projections.
Blood parasites (Haemoproteus and microfilariae) in birds from the Caribbean slope of Costa Rica
Authors: Benedikt Vaclav , Barus Vlastimil , Capek Miroslav , Havlicek Martin , Literak Ivan
Published: July 2009

We studied blood parasites in wild birds within Hitoy Cerere Biological Reserve and Barbilla National Park in Costa Rica during the rainy season of 2004. We examined blood samples from 248 and 114 birds, respectively. Protozoan parasites of the genus Haemoproteus as well as microfilariae were found. Prevalence of Haemoproteus in birds was 0.8% and 4.4% in Hitoy Cerere and Barbilla, respectively, and differences were significant. Prevalence of infection by microfilariae was 8.1% and 3.5%, respectively, however, differences were not significant. Based on morphological characteristics, we divided microfilariae into two groups and nine morphotypes. In Hitoy Cerere, there were microfilariae of all nine morphotypes whereas in Barbilla we only found two morphotypes.
Traditional Tillage Systems as Drought Adaptation Strategies of Smallholder Farmers: The Case of Semi-Arid Central Tanzania
Authors: Shemdoe Riziki S. , Kikula Idris S. , Van Damme Patrick
Published: July 2009

This article presents local knowledge on ecosystem management by analyzing and discussing traditional tillage practices applied by smallholder farmers as a response to drought risks in dryland areas of Mpwapwa District, central Tanzania. Farming activities in the area wholly depend on rain-fed systems. Information from key informants and in-depth household interviews indicate that farmers in this area use three different traditional tillage practices—no-till (sesa), shallow tillage (kutifua), and ridges (matuta). Available information suggests that selection of a particular practice depends on affordability (in terms of costs and labor requirements), perceived ability to retain nutrient and soil-water, and improvement of control of erosion and crop yield. In this area, smallholder farmers perceive no-till practice to contribute to more weed species, hence more weeding time and labor are needed than in the other two practices. The no-till practice also contributes to low soil fertility, low soil moisture retention, and poor crop yield. No plans have been made to introduce irrigation farming in these marginal areas of central Tanzania. Thus, improving the ability of the tillage practices to conserve soil moisture and maintain soil fertility nutrients using locally available materials are important tasks to be carried out. This will ensure the selection of practices that will have positive influence on improved crop yields in the area.
The Impact of CPOE Medication Systems’ Design Aspects on Usability, Workflow and Medication Orders
Authors: Jaspers M. W. M. , Khajouei R.
Published: July 2009

Objectives: To examine the impact of design aspects of computerized physician order entry (CPOE) systems for medication ordering on usability, physicians’ workflow and on medication orders.

Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE and Ovid MEDLINE for articles published from 1986 to 2007. We also evaluated reference lists of reviews and relevant articles captured by our search strategy, and the web-based inventory of evaluation studies in medical informatics 1982–2005. Data about design aspects were extracted from the relevant articles. Identified design aspects were categorized in groups derived from principles for computer screen and dialogue design and user guidance from the International Standard Organization, and if CPOE-specific, from the collected data.

Results: A total of 19 papers met our inclusion criteria. Sixteen studies used qualitative evaluation methods and the rest both qualitative and quantitative. In total 42 CPOE design aspects were identified and categorized in seven groups: 1) documentation and data entry components, 2) alerting, 3) visual clues and icons, 4) drop-down lists and menus, 5) safeguards, 6) screen displays, and 7) auxiliary functions.

Conclusions: Beside the range of functionalities provided by a CPOE system, their subtle design is important to increase physicians’ adoption and to reduce medication errors. This requires continuous evaluations to investigate whether interfaces of CPOE systems follow normal flow of actions in the ordering process and if they are cognitively easy to understand and use for physicians. This paper provides general recommendations for CPOE (re)design based on the characteristics of CPOE design aspects found.
Integrated Segmentation and Non-linear Registration for Organ Segmentation and Motion Field Estimation in 4D CT Data
Authors: Handels H. , Ehrhardt J. , Schmidt-Richberg A.
Published: July 2009

Objectives: The development of spatiotemporal tomographic imaging techniques allows the application of novel techniques for diagnosis and therapy in the medical routine. However, in consequence to the increasing amount of image data automatic methods for segmentation and motion estimation are required. In adaptive radiation therapy, registration techniques are used for the estimation of respiration-induced motion of pre-segmented organs. In this paper, a variational approach for the simultaneous computation of segmentations and a dense non-linear registration of the 3D images of the sequence is presented.

Methods: In the presented approach, a variational region-based level set segmentation of the structures of interest is combined with a diffusive registration of the spatial images of the sequence. We integrate both parts by defining a new energy term, which allows us to incorporate mutual prior information in order to improve the segmentation as well as the registration quality.

Results: The presented approach was utilized for the segmentation of the liver and the simultaneous estimation of its respiration-induced motion based on four-dimensional thoracic CT images. For the considered patients, we were able to improve the results of the segmentation and the motion estimation, compared to the conventional uncoupled methods.

Conclusions: Applied in the field of radiation therapy of thoracic tumors, the presented integrated approach turns out to be useful for simultaneous segmentation and registration by improving the results compared to the application of the methods independently.
Design and performance of masonry mortars made with recycled concrete aggregates
Authors: Vegas I. , Azkarate I. , Juarrero A. , Frías M.
Published: July 2009

The present paper discusses the technical feasibility ofusing the fine fraction of recycled aggregate fromconcrete rubble to manufacture cement mortar andpossible conditions.An initial study of the chemical and physical-mechanicalcharacteristics of fines recycled from selected concreteshowed that their high absorptivity and high sulfatecontent compared to natural limestone sands were thelimiting factors to their in masonry mortars.As in the caseof structural concrete, a blend of recycled and naturalaggregate would appear to be suitable for masonrymortars.A study of the mix proportions and characteristics ofmortars made with recycled concrete aggregate showedthat up to 25% recycled aggregate can be used incement-based masonry mortars with no significant declinein performance and no new admixtures or higher cementcontent requires.
Mobile Learning Platform for E-Learning
Authors: Chis George , Grebla H. , Stanca L.
Published: July 2009

The fast changing or the development of technologies induces the need to process the information in key moments in different locations. Thus, not only those who are learning need mobile tools of learning, but also those who are trainers need mobile tools for preparing the classes, for coordinating the educational activities. On this background, new patterns had been developed based on its main principles, starting with the evolution of technology. Based on these modifications we are going to present a mobileâ??learning system which we intend to integrate with our E-learning system..
Let's Meet at the Mobile - Learning Dialogs with a Video Conferencing Software for Mobile Devices
Authors: Cycon Hans L. , Schmidt Thomas C. , Hege Gabriel , Wählisch Matthias , Palkow Mark
Published: July 2009

Mobile phones and related gadgets in networks are omnipresent at our students, advertising itself as the platform for mobile, pervasive learning. Currently, these devices rapidly open and enhance, being soon able to serve as a major platform for rich, open multimedia applications and communication. In this report we introduce a video conferencing software, which seamlessly integrates mobile with stationary users into fully distributed multi-party conversations. Following the paradigm of flexible, user-initiated group communication, we present an integrated solution, which scales well for medium-size conferences and accounts for the heterogeneous nature of mobile and stationary participants. This approach allows for a spontaneous, location independent establishment of video dialogs, which is of particular importance in interactive learning scenarios. The work is based on a highly optimized realization of a H.264 codec.
m-Learning: The Usage of WAP Technology in e-Learning
Authors: Alsadi Jehad A , AbuShawar Bayan A
Published: July 2009

This paper presents the experience of Arab Open University; AOU for short; on using WAP technology in mobile learning; m-Learning. The goal is to enhance e-Learning aspects of the existing learning management systems (LMS); e.g. Moodle. In addition to presenting technical aspects of the WAP, we also introduce the advantages and disadvantages of using WAP technology in the learning process. Furthermore, a description of AOUâ??s learning management system with the outcomes of the tutors and students is introduced. This paper discusses also the suitability and feasibility of using WAP technology devices for distance learning in real-time
The Barcelona Mobile Cluster: Actors, Contents and Trends
Authors: Scolari Carlos Alberto , Navarro Güere Héctor , García Irene , Pardo Kuklinski Hugo , Soriano Jaume
Published: July 2009

Communication mediated by mobile devices is one of the most dynamic sectors of the global economy and is transforming different aspects of our lives, including our ways of relating and our cultural production, distribution and consumption models. Media studies should not ignore these transformations. This paper presents the results of a study carried out during 2008 to determine the actors, contents produced and trends of the mobile communication companies in Barcelona. The study outlines an initial map of the situation, proposes a series of analysis categories and lays the foundations for more specific future studies on mCommunication.
Developing a Mobile Application via Bluetooth Wireless Technology for Enhancing Communication
Authors: Idwan Sahar A.
Published: July 2009

This paper presents Mobile application via Bluetooth wireless technology (MAvBT) that enhance the student portal in universities by connecting students' mobile phone devices to a server application that benefit from the devices Bluetooth technology and the storage abilities. MAvBT enables students to retrieve their information with minimum time and anywhere ranging from 100m up to 1Km and it facilitate the communication with instructors outside the office hours. This system consists of computer application (Server Application) installed on a Bluetooth enabled computer, Mobile application (client application) installed on studentsâ?? mobile phone devices, and a website that enable the instructors to edit their materials or enable the demonstrator to get some important reports. Experimental results show that the proposed system is faster, effortless, and cheaper.
E-Learning over Mobile Phone Technology: Best Practices and Guidelines
Authors: Khaddage Ferial , Chonka Ashley , Zhou Wanlei
Published: July 2009

Over the past decade, we have seen a large advancement in picture and sound quality that is now offered through mobile phones. Through this advancement we have now seen the development of mobile phones that have cameras that can take picture and videos. They can also play music, provide internet services, pay-per-view TV, radio, and even hi-res computer games are now becoming available to mobile phone users. With all these available services that are now offered through mobile phone, we now believe that those who provide E-learning materials can now provide their presentations that is clear and concise, but also make their materials fun and enjoyable so that it does not have the opposite effect of learning. In this brief paper, we covered some of the best practices and guidelines that course designers could use in guiding them to provide E-learning material over mobile phones.
Absence of IFN-β Impairs Antigen Presentation Capacity of Splenic Dendritic Cells via Down-Regulation of Heat Shock Protein 70
Authors: Ziętara Natalia , Łyszkiewicz Marcin , Gekara Nelson , Puchałka Jacek , Dos Santos Vitor A. P. Martins , Hunt Clayton R. , Pandita Tej K. , Lienenklaus Stefan , Weiss Siegfried
Published: July 2009

Type I IFNs play a key role in linking the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system. Although produced rapidly in response to pathogens, IFNs are also produced at low levels in the absence of infection. In the present study, we demonstrate that constitutively produced IFNs are necessary in vivo to maintain dendritic cells in an “Ag presentation-competent” state. Conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) isolated from spleens of IFN-β or IFNAR-deficient mice exhibit a highly impaired ability to present Ag and activate naive T cells. Microarray analysis of mRNA isolated from IFN-β−/− and IFNAR−/− cDCs revealed diminished expression of two genes that encoded members of the heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) family. Consistent with this observation, pharmacological inhibition of Hsp70 in cDCs from wild-type mice impaired their T cell stimulatory capacity. Similarly, the Ag presentation ability of splenic cDCs isolated from Hsp70.1/3−/− mice was also severely impaired in comparison to wild-type cDCs. Thus, constitutive IFN-β expression regulates Hsp70 levels to help maintain dendritic cells in a competent state for efficient priming of effector T cells in vivo.
The relationship between family-of-origin and marital satisfaction
Authors: Botha Anja , Van den Berg Henriette S. , Venter Chris A.V.
Published: July 2009

The aim of this article is to explore the relationship between marital satisfaction and family-of-origin factors amongst couples with children. Locke and Wallace’s Marital Adjustment Test and the McMaster Family Assessment Device were used to measure marital satisfaction and family of-origin factors respectively. Family-of-origin factors, such as problem solving, communication, roles, affective involvement and behavioural control were investigated. The sample consisted of 47 married couples. A significant relationship was found between roles and affective responsive- ness as family-of-origin factors and marital satisfaction, while roles as a family-of-origin factor played an important role in the wife as well as her husbands’ marital satisfaction. The findings emphasise the importance of functioning in the family-of-origin as a potential determinant of future marital satisfaction.OpsommingDie doel van hierdie artikel is om die verwantskap tussen huweliks-bevrediging en gesin-vanoorsprong- faktore onder pare met kinders te ondersoek. Locke en Wallace se Marital Adjustment Test en die McMaster Family Assessment Device is gebruik om onderskeidelik huweliksbevrediging en gesin-van-oorsprong-faktore te meet. Gesin-van-oorsprong-faktore, soos probleem-oplossing, kommunikasie, rolle, affektiewe betrokkenheid en gedragsbeheer is ondersoek. Die steekproef het uit 47 getroude pare bestaan. 'n Beduidende verwantskap is tussen rolle en affektiewe responsiwiteit as gesin-van-oorsprong-faktore en huweliksbevrediging gevind, terwyl rolle as 'n gesin-van-oorsprong- faktor 'n belangrike rol in die vrou sowel as die man se huweliks-bevrediging gespeel het. Die bevindinge beklemtoon die belangrikheid van funksionering in die gesin van oorsprong as 'n potensiële determinant van toekomstige huweliksbevrediging.
Lower Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage
Authors: Imran Hira , Alexander Jason T. , Jackson Christopher D.
Published: April 2024

This JAMA Clinical Guidelines Synopsis summarizes the 2023 American College of Gastroenterology guidelines on management of patients with acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding.
Digital Health Interventions and Patient Safety in Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Grygorian Artem , Montano Diego , Shojaa Mahdieh , Ferencak Maximilian , Schmitz Norbert
Published: April 2024

Importance

Over the past 2 decades, several digital technology applications have been used to improve clinical outcomes after abdominal surgery. The extent to which these telemedicine interventions are associated with improved patient safety outcomes has not been assessed in systematic and meta-analytic reviews.

Objective

To estimate the implications of telemedicine interventions for complication and readmission rates in a population of patients with abdominal surgery.

Data Sources

PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were queried to identify relevant randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and nonrandomized studies published from inception through February 2023 that compared perioperative telemedicine interventions with conventional care and reported at least 1 patient safety outcome.

Study Selection

Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts to exclude irrelevant studies as well as assessed the full-text articles for eligibility. After exclusions, 11 RCTs and 8 cohort studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis and 7 were included in the narrative review.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Data were extracted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline and assessed for risk of bias by 2 reviewers. Meta-analytic estimates were obtained in random-effects models.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Number of complications, emergency department (ED) visits, and readmissions.

Results

A total of 19 studies (11 RCTs and 8 cohort studies) with 10 536 patients were included. The pooled risk ratio (RR) estimates associated with ED visits (RR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.65-0.94) and readmissions (RR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.58-0.78) favored the telemedicine group. There was no significant difference in the risk of complications between patients in the telemedicine and conventional care groups (RR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.77-1.43).

Conclusions and Relevance

Findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that perioperative telehealth interventions are associated with reduced risk of readmissions and ED visits after abdominal surgery. However, the mechanisms of action for specific types of abdominal surgery are still largely unknown and warrant further research.
Interval Appendectomy After Successful Antibiotic Treatment?
Authors: Talan David A. , Minneci Peter C.
Published: April 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the pros and cons of performing interval appendectomy in patients who have recovered from successful antibiotic treatment of acute uncomplicated appendicitis.
Total Neoadjuvant Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer—What Is Totality?
Authors: Cannas Samuele , Vollmer Charles M.
Published: April 2024

This article discusses the meaning of the word total in relation to total neoadjuvant therapy for pancreatic cancer.
Plastic Wound Protector vs Surgical Gauze for Surgical Site Infection Reduction in Open GI Surgery
Authors: Yoo Nina , Mun Ji Yeon , Kye Bong-Hyeon , Kim Chang Woo , Lee Jae Im , Park Youn Young , Kang Byung Mo , Park Byung Kwan , Kwak Han Deok , Kang Won-Kyung , Bae Sung Uk , Oh Heung-Kwon , Hong Youngki , Kim Hyung Jin
Published: April 2024

Importance

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are prevalent hospital-acquired infections with significant patient impacts and global health care burdens. The World Health Organization recommends using wound protector devices in abdominal surgery as a preventive measure to lower the risk of SSIs despite limited evidence.

Objective

To examine the efficacy of a dual-ring, plastic wound protector in lowering the SSI rate in open gastrointestinal (GI) surgery irrespective of intra-abdominal contamination levels.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multicenter, patient-blinded, parallel-arm randomized clinical trial was conducted from August 2017 to October 2022 at 13 hospitals in an academic setting. Patients undergoing open abdominal bowel surgery (eg, for bowel perforation) were eligible for inclusion.

Intervention

Patients were randomized 1:1 to a dual-ring, plastic wound protector to protect the incision site of the abdominal wall (experimental group) or a conventional surgical gauze (control group).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary end point was the rate of SSI within 30 days of open GI surgery.

Results

A total of 458 patients were randomized; after 1 was excluded from the control group, 457 were included in the intention-to-treat analysis (mean [SD] age, 58.4 [12.1] years; 256 [56.0%] male; 341 [74.6%] with a clean-contaminated wound): 229 in the wound protector group and 228 in the surgical gauze group. The overall SSI rate in the intention-to-treat analysis was 15.7% (72 of 458 patients). The SSI rate for the wound protector was 10.9% (25 of 229 patients) compared with 20.5% (47 of 229 patients) with surgical gauze. The wound protector significantly reduced the risk of SSI, with a relative risk reduction (RRR) of 46.81% (95% CI, 16.64%-66.06%). The wound protector significantly decreased the SSI rate for clean-contaminated wounds (RRR, 43.75%; 95% CI, 3.75%-67.13%), particularly for superficial SSIs (RRR, 42.50%; 95% CI, 7.16%-64.39%). Length of hospital stay was similar in both groups (mean [SD], 15.2 [10.5] vs 15.3 [10.2] days), as were the overall postoperative complication rates (20.1% vs 18.8%).

Conclusions and Relevance

This randomized clinical trial found a significant reduction in SSI rates when a plastic wound protector was used during open GI surgery compared with surgical gaze, supporting the World Health Organization recommendation for use of wound protector devices in abdominal surgery.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03170843
Advancing Alzheimer's research: Radiomics visualization of the default mode network in cerebral perfusion imaging
Authors: Fang Danzhou , Zhou Zhiming , Xiong Yalan , Fan Yongzeng , Li Yixuan , Zhao Huayi , Huang Jiahui , Yuan Gengbiao , Rao Maohua
Published: April 2024

Objective

Alzheimer's disease, an irreversible neurological condition, demands timely diagnosis for effective clinical intervention. This study employs radiomics analysis to assess image features in default mode network cerebral perfusion imaging among individuals with cognitive impairment.

Methods

A radiomics analysis of cerebral perfusion imaging was conducted on 117 patients with cognitive impairment. They were divided into training and validation sets in a 7:3 ratio. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) and Random Forest were employed to select and model image features, followed by logistic regression analysis of LASSO and Random Forest results. Diagnostic performance was assessed by calculating the area under the curve (AUC).

Results

In the training set, LASSO achieved AUC of 0.978, Random Forest had an AUC of 0.933. In the validation set, LASSO had AUC of 0.859, Random Forest had AUC of 0.986. By conducting Logistic Regression analysis in combination with LASSO and Random Forest, we identified a total of five radiomics features, with four related to morphology and one to textural features, originating from the medial prefrontal cortex and middle temporal gyrus. In the training set, Logistic Regression achieved AUC of 0.911, while in the validation set, it attained AUC of 0.925.

Conclusion

The medial prefrontal cortex and middle temporal gyrus are the two brain regions within the default mode network that hold the highest significance for Alzheimer's disease diagnosis. Radiomics analysis contributes to the clinical assessment of Alzheimer's disease by delving into image data to extract deeper layers of information.
Angiopoietin‐2 associates with poor prognosis in Moyamoya angiopathy
Authors: Gorla Gemma , Potenza Antonella , Carrozzini Tatiana , Pollaci Giuliana , Acerbi Francesco , Vetrano Ignazio G. , Ferroli Paolo , Canavero Isabella , Rifino Nicola , Bersano Anna , Gatti Laura
Published: April 2024

Objective

Moyamoya angiopathy (MA) is a rare cerebrovascular disorder characterized by recurrent ischemic/hemorrhagic strokes due to progressive occlusion of the intracranial carotid arteries. The lack of reliable disease severity biomarkers led us to investigate molecular features of a Caucasian cohort of MA patients.

Methods

The participants consisted of 30 MA patients and 40 controls. We measured cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of angiogenic/inflammatory factors (ELISA). We then applied quantitative real‐time PCR on cerebral artery specimens for expression analyses of angiogenic factors. By an immunoassay based on microfluidic technology, we examined the potential correlations between plasma protein expression and MA clinical progression. A RNA interference approach toward Ring Finger Protein 213 (RNF213) and a tube formation assay were applied in cellular model.

Results

We detected a statistically significant (p < 0.000001) up‐regulation of Angiopoietin‐2 (Ang‐2) in CSF and stenotic middle cerebral arteries (RQ >2) of MA patients compared to controls. A high Ang‐2 plasma concentration (p = 0.018) was associated with unfavorable outcome in a subset of MA patients. ROC curve analyses indicated Ang‐2 as diagnostic CSF biomarker (>3741 pg/mL) and prognostic plasma biomarker (>1162 pg/mL), to distinguish stable‐from‐progressive MA. Consistently, MA cellular model showed a significant up‐regulation (RQ >2) of Ang‐2 in RNF213 silenced condition.

Interpretation

Our results pointed out Ang‐2 as a reliable biomarker mirroring arterial steno‐occlusion and vascular instability of MA in CSF and blood, providing a candidate factor for patient stratification. This pilot study may pave the way to the validation of a biomarker to identify progressive MA patients deserving a specific treatment path.
In Situ Formed Li3N Networks by Soft Carbon‐Si3N4 for Superior All‐Solid‐State Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Zhixuan , Mu Zhenliang , Ma Tenghuan , Yan Wenlin , Wu Dengxu , Li Yongxing , Yang Ming , Peng Jian , Xia Yu , Shi Shaochen , Chen Liquan , Li Hong , Wu Fan
Published: April 2024

The rapid growth of lithium (Li) dendrites has long hindered the development of all‐solid‐state lithium‐metal batteries (ASSLMB). Here, a composite soft carbon (SC)‐nano Si3N4 (SiN) interlayer (SC‐SiN) is designed for in situ formation of Li3N network (with high ionic conductivity/diffusivity) after lithium embedding in nano‐Si3N4, promoting the rapid migration of Li+ and guiding the metal Li to be deposited uniformly in a 3D manner within the interlayer. It can solve the problem of rapid consumption of Li+ and local charge accumulation at the interface of solid electrolyte and Li metal anode, thus avoiding the growth of Li‐dendrites. The resulting LCO/LPSCl/SC‐SiN‐Li ASSLMB achieves ultra‐high current density (12.5 mA cm−2) and ultra‐long cycle life (22 000 cycles with no degradation), as well as ultra‐high area capacity area capacity (15 mAh cm−2) and energy density (402.5 Wh kg−1), all of which break existing ASSLMB records. In addition, it is capable of 600 cycles at an areal capacity of 2.7 mAh cm−2 and 2 C (85.7% capacity retention). A pouch cell is also assembled to delivers high energy density (>320 Wh kg−1). These confirm the application potential of this configuration and are one of the most critical breakthroughs toward the commercialization of the ASSLMB.
The Role of the Molecular Encapsulation Effect in Stabilizing Hydrogen‐Bond‐Rich Gel‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Xu Hantao , Deng Wei , Shi Lei , Long Juncai , Zhang Yongcai , Xu Lin , Mai Liqiang
Published: April 2024

Gel‐state polymer electrolytes with superior mechanical properties, self‐healing abilities and high Li+ transference numbers can be obtained by in situ polymerization of monomers with hydrogen‐bonding moieties. However, it is overlooked that the active hydrogen atoms in hydrogen‐bond donors experience displacement reactions with lithium metal in lithium metal batteries (LMBs), leading to corrosion of the lithium metal. Herein, it is discovered that the addition of hydrogen‐bond acceptors to hydrogen‐bond‐rich gel‐state electrolytes modulates the chemical activity of the active hydrogen atoms via the formation of hydrogen‐bonded intermolecular interactions. The characterizations reveal that the added hydrogen‐bond acceptors encapsulate the active hydrogen atoms to suppress the interfacial chemical corrosions of lithium metals, thereby enhancing the chemical stability of the polymer structure and interphase. With the employment of this strategy, a 1.1 Ah LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2/Li metal pouch cell achieves stable cycling with 96.3 % capacity retention at 100 cycles. This new approach indicates a feasible path for achieving in situ polymerization of highly stable gel‐state‐based LMBs.
Analyse des Nativen Zustands von Proteinen durch Hochdruck NMR‐Spektroskopie unter Berücksichtigung des Ensembles Unstrukturierter Konformationen
Authors: Berner Frederic , Kovermann Michael
Published: April 2024

Die Analyse druckabhängiger Änderungen der chemischen Verschiebung von Proteinen erlaubt es, Aussagen über strukturelle Fluktuationen zu machen, die diese bereits bei Umgebungsdruck aufweisen. Das Problem, allgemeine Effekte, die mit einer Erhöhung des hydrostatischen Drucks einhergehen, von strukturell bedingten Effekten auf die chemische Verschiebung zu trennen, wurde bisher durch das Einbeziehen der Eigenschaften unstrukturierter Modellpeptide angegangen. In dieser Arbeit wurden chemische Verschiebungen in 2D 1H‐15N‐HSQC Spektren von chemisch als auch druckdenaturierten Zuständen des Kälteschockproteins B aus Bacillus Subtilis (BsCspB) zugeordnet und ihre Abhängigkeit von Änderungen des hydrostatischen Drucks ausgewertet. Die durch hydrostatischen Druck denaturierte Polypeptidkette wurde verwendet, um allgemeine Effekte von strukturbedingten Effekten auf 1H und 15N chemische Verschiebungen zu trennen. Daraus resultierende Interpretationen der druckabhängigen Änderungen der chemischen Verschiebungen werden im strukturellen Kontext diskutiert. Es wurde festgestellt, dass das Ensemble unstrukturierter Konformationen von BsCspB anders auf eine Erhöhung des Drucks reagiert, als es unstrukturierte Modellpeptide tun. Daraus kann geschlussfolgert werden, dass der Ansatz, mit dem man allgemeine Effekte, die durch eine Erhöhung des Drucks hervorgerufen werden, abschätzt, die strukturellen Rückschlüsse ändert, die anhand einer Analyse von chemischen Verschiebungen getroffen werden.
Crown Ether Electrolyte Induced Li2O2 Amorphization for Low Polarization and Long Lifespan Li‐O2 Batteries
Authors: Li Meng , Wu Jiaxin , You Zichang , Dai Zhongqin , Gu Yuanfan , Shi Lei , Wu Meifen , Wen Zhaoyin
Published: April 2024

Lithium‐oxygen batteries possess an extremely high theoretical energy density, rendering them a prime candidate for next‐generation secondary batteries. However, they still face multiple problems such as huge charge polarization and poor life, which lay a significant gap between laboratory research and commercial applications. In this work, we adopt 15‐crown‐5 ether (C15) as solvent to regulate the generation of discharge products in lithium‐oxygen batteries. The coronal structure endows C15 with strong affinity to Li+, firmly stabilizes the intermediate LiO2 and discharge product Li2O2. Thus, the crystalline Li2O2 is amorphized into easily decomposable amorphous products. The lithium‐oxygen batteries assembled with 0.5 M C15 electrolyte show an increased discharge capacity from 4.0 mAh cm−2 to 5.7 mAh cm−2 and a low charge overpotential of 0.88 V during the whole lifespan at 0.05 mA cm−2. The batteries with 1 M C15 electrolyte can cycle stably for 140 cycles. Furthermore, the amorphous characteristic of Li2O2 product is preserved when matched with redox mediators such as LiI, with the charge polarization further decreasing to 0.74 V over a cycle life of 190 cycles. This provides new possibilities for electrolyte design to promote Li2O2 amorphization and reduce charge overpotential in lithium‐oxygen batteries.
C(sp3)−H (N‐Phenyltetrazole)thiolation as an Enabling Tool for Molecular Diversification
Authors: Zachmann Ashley K. Z. , Drappeau Justine A. , Liu Shubin , Alexanian Erik J.
Published: April 2024

Methods enabling the broad diversification of C(sp3)−H bonds from a common intermediate are especially valuable in chemical synthesis. Herein, we report a site‐selective (N‐phenyltetrazole)thiolation of aliphatic and (hetero)benzylic C(sp3)−H bonds using a commercially available disulfide to access N‐phenyltetrazole thioethers. The thioether products are readily elaborated in diverse fragment couplings for C−C, C−O, or C−N construction. The C−H functionalization proceeds via a radical‐chain pathway involving hydrogen atom transfer by the electron‐poor N‐phenyltetrazolethiyl radical. Hexafluoroisopropanol was found to be essential to reactions involving aliphatic C(sp3)−H thiolation, with computational analysis consistent with dual hydrogen bonding of the N‐phenyltetrazolethiyl radical imparting increased radical electrophilicity to facilitate the hydrogen atom transfer. Substrate is limiting reagent in all cases, and the reaction displays an exceptional functional group tolerance well suited to applications in late‐stage diversification.