bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tropical lotic primary producers: Who has the most efficient photosynthesis in low‐order stream ecosystems?
Authors: Branco Ciro C. Z. , Riolfi Thaís A. , Crulhas Bruno P. , Tonetto Aurélio F. , Bautista Anna I. N. , Necchi Júnior Orlando
Published: July 2017

Photosynthetic performance was assessed for the main groups of primary producers of low‐order tropical streams, comprising macroalgae (11 taxa of Chlorophyta, Rhodophyta and Xanthophyta plus Cyanobacteria), bryophytes (2), angiosperms (3), and the periphytic community, by means of the Chl‐a fluorescence and oxygen evolution techniques.

Samples of primary producer were collected in nine stream reaches within the same drainage basin that were characterised as open or partially shaded.

Low values of compensation irradiance (Ic) were found for all species tested, suggesting that they are able to maintain an autotrophic metabolism even under very low irradiances.

Parameters derived from photosynthesis–irradiance curves revealed high values of the saturation parameter (Ik), associated with relative low values of photosynthetic efficiency (αETR) and photoinhibition (βETR) for species of Chlorophyta and the periphyton, suggesting adaptation to high irradiance conditions.

Species of Rhodophyta, Xanthophyta, Bryophyta and angiosperms showed, in general low values of Ik and moderate to high values of αETR and βETR, indicating typical photosynthetic responses of shade‐adapted plants.

Chlorophyta and the periphyton showed high photosynthetic efficiency in high irradiance, and rhodophytes, bryophytes and angiosperms seemed to be more efficient in shaded stream stretches.

Considering that Cyanobacteria showed high values of the photosynthesis/respiration (P/R) ratio, we suggest that this group is the most efficient primary producer in a wide range of low‐order tropical streams. This physiological trait could be a feature that favours the abundance of Cyanobacteria in the benthic primary producer community, as is often reported in the literature.
Multi‐century tree‐ring precipitation record reveals increasing frequency of extreme dry events in the upper Blue Nile River catchment
Authors: Mokria Mulugeta , Gebrekirstos Aster , Abiyu Abrham , Van Noordwijk Meine , Bräuning Achim
Published: July 2017

Climate‐related environmental and humanitarian crisis are important challenges in the Great Horn of Africa (GHA). In the absence of long‐term past climate records in the region, tree‐rings are valuable climate proxies, reflecting past climate variations and complementing climate records prior to the instrumental era. We established annually resolved multi‐century tree‐ring chronology from Juniperus procera trees in northern Ethiopia, the longest series yet for the GHA. The chronology correlates significantly with wet‐season (r = .64, p < .01) and annual (r = .68, p < .01) regional rainfall. Reconstructed rainfall since A.D. 1811 revealed significant interannual variations between 2.2 and 3.8 year periodicity, with significant decadal and multidecadal variations during 1855–1900 and 1960–1990. The duration of negative and positive rainfall anomalies varied between 1–7 years and 1–8 years. Approximately 78.4% (95%) of reconstructed dry (extreme dry) and 85.4% (95%) of wet (extreme wet) events lasted for 1 year only and corresponded to historical records of famine and flooding, suggesting that future climate change studies should be both trend and extreme event focused. The average return periods for dry (extreme dry) and wet (extreme wet) events were 4.1 (8.8) years and 4.1 (9.5) years. Extreme‐dry conditions during the 19th century were concurrent with drought episodes in equatorial eastern Africa that occurred at the end of the Little Ice Age. El Niño and La Niña events matched with 38.5% and 50% of extreme‐dry and extreme‐wet events. Equivalent matches for positive and negative Indian Ocean Dipole events were weaker, reaching 23.1 and 25%, respectively. Spatial correlations revealed that reconstructed rainfall represents wet‐season rainfall variations over northern Ethiopia and large parts of the Sahel belt. The data presented are useful for backcasting climate and hydrological models and for developing regional strategic plans to manage scarce and contested water resources. Historical perspectives on long‐term regional rainfall variability improve the interpretation of recent climate trends.
A reversal of the shift towards earlier spring phenology in several Mediterranean reptiles and amphibians during the 1998–2013 warming slowdown
Authors: Prodon Roger , Geniez Philippe , Cheylan Marc , Devers Florence , Chuine Isabelle , Besnard Aurelien
Published: July 2017

Herps, especially amphibians, are particularly susceptible to climate change, as temperature tightly controls many parameters of their biological cycle—above all, their phenology. The timing of herps’ activity or migration period—in particular the dates of their first appearance in spring and first breeding—and the shift to earlier dates in response to warming since the last quarter of the 20th century has often been described up to now as a nearly monotonic trend towards earlier phenological events. In this study, we used citizen science data opportunistically collected on reptiles and amphibians in the northern Mediterranean basin over a period of 32 years to explore temporal variations in herp phenology. For 17 common species, we measured shifts in the date of the species’ first spring appearance—which may be the result of current changes in climate—and regressed the first appearance date against temperatures and precipitations. Our results confirmed the expected overall trend towards earlier first spring appearances from 1983 to 1997, and show that the first appearance date of both reptiles and amphibians fits well with the temperature in late winter. However, the trend towards earlier dates was stopped or even reversed in most species between 1998 and 2013. We interpret this reversal as a response to cooling related to the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) in the late winter and early spring. During the positive NAO episodes, for certain species only (mainly amphibians), the effect of a warm weather, which tends to advance the phenology, seems to be counterbalanced by the adverse effects of the relative dryness.
Long‐term changes in abundances of Sonoran Desert lizards reveal complex responses to climatic variation
Authors: Flesch Aaron D. , Rosen Philip C. , Holm Peter
Published: July 2017

Understanding how climatic variation affects animal populations and communities is essential for addressing threats posed by climate change, especially in systems where impacts are projected to be high. We evaluated abundance dynamics of five common species of diurnal lizards over 25 years in a Sonoran Desert transition zone where precipitation decreased and temperature increased across time, and assessed hypotheses for the influence of climatic flux on spatiotemporal variation in abundances. We repeatedly surveyed lizards in spring and summer of each year at up to 32 sites, and used hierarchical mixture models to estimate detection probabilities, abundances, and population growth rates. Among terrestrial species, abundances of a short‐lived, winter–spring breeder increased markedly by an estimated 237%–285% across time, while two larger spring–summer breeders with higher thermal preferences declined by up to 64%. Abundances of two arboreal species that occupy shaded and thus sheltered microhabitats fluctuated but did not decline systematically. Abundances of all species increased with precipitation at short lag times (1–1.5 years) likely due to enhanced food availability, but often declined after periods of high precipitation at longer lag times (2–4 years) likely due to predation and other biotic pressures. Although rising maximum daily temperatures (Tmax) are expected to drive global declines of lizards, associations with Tmax were variable and weak for most species. Instead, abundances of all species declined with rising daily minimum temperatures, suggesting degradation of cool refugia imposed widespread metabolic or other costs. Our results suggest climate warming and drying are having major impacts on lizard communities by driving declines in species with traits that augment exposure to abiotic extremes and by modifying species interactions. The complexity of patterns we report indicates that evaluating and responding to the influence of climate change on biodiversity must consider a broad array of ecological processes.
Warming drives a front of white spruce establishment near western treeline, Alaska
Authors: Miller Amy E. , Wilson Tammy L. , Sherriff Rosemary L. , Walton James
Published: July 2017

Regional warming has led to increased productivity near the boreal forest margin in Alaska. To date, the effects of warming on seedling recruitment have received little attention, in spite of forecasted forest expansion. Here, we used stand structure and environmental data from 95 white spruce (Picea glauca) plots sampled across a longitudinal gradient in southwest Alaska to explore factors influencing spruce establishment and recruitment near western treeline. We used total counts of live seedlings, saplings, and trees, representing five life stages, to evaluate whether geospatial, climate, and measured plot covariates predicted abundance, using current abundance distributions as a surrogate for climate conditions in the past. We used generalized linear models to test the null hypothesis that conditions favorable for recruitment were similar along the environmental gradient represented by longitude, by exploring relationships between per‐plot counts of each life stage and the covariates hypothesized to affect abundance. We also examined the relationship between growing degree days (GDD) and seedling establishment over a period of three decades using tree‐ring chronologies obtained from cores taken at a subset of our sites (n = 30). Our results indicated that seedling, sapling, and tree abundance were positively correlated with temperature across the study area. The response to longitude was mixed, with earlier life stages (seedlings, saplings) most abundant at the western end of the gradient, and later life stages (trees) most abundant to the east. The differential relationship between longitude and life‐stage abundance suggests a moving front of white spruce establishment through time, driven by changes in environmental conditions near the species’ western range limit. Likewise, we found a positive relationship between periods of seedling establishment and GDD, suggesting that longer summers and/or greater heat accumulation might enhance establishment, consistent with the positive relationship we found between life‐stage abundance and temperature.
Aquatic export of young dissolved and gaseous carbon from a pristine boreal fen: Implications for peat carbon stock stability
Authors: Campeau Audrey , Bishop Kevin H. , Billett Michael F. , Garnett Mark H. , Laudon Hjalmar , Leach Jason A. , Nilsson Mats B. , Öquist Mats G. , Wallin Marcus B.
Published: July 2017

The stability of northern peatland's carbon (C) store under changing climate is of major concern for the global C cycle. The aquatic export of C from boreal peatlands is recognized as both a critical pathway for the remobilization of peat C stocks as well as a major component of the net ecosystem C balance (NECB). Here, we present a full year characterization of radiocarbon content (14C) of dissolved organic carbon (DOC), carbon dioxide (CO2), and methane (CH4) exported from a boreal peatland catchment coupled with 14C characterization of the catchment's peat profile of the same C species. The age of aquatic C in runoff varied little throughout the year and appeared to be sustained by recently fixed C from the atmosphere (<60 years), despite stream DOC, CO2, and CH4 primarily being sourced from deep peat horizons (2–4 m) near the mire's outlet. In fact, the 14C content of DOC, CO2, and CH4 across the entire peat profile was considerably enriched with postbomb C compared with the solid peat material. Overall, our results demonstrate little to no mobilization of ancient C stocks from this boreal peatland and a relatively large resilience of the source of aquatic C export to forecasted hydroclimatic changes.
The role of protected areas in land use/land cover change and the carbon cycle in the conterminous United States
Authors: Lu Xiaoliang , Zhou Yuyu , Liu Yaling , Le Page Yannick
Published: July 2017

Protected areas (PAs) cover about 22% of the conterminous United States. Understanding their role on historical land use and land cover change (LULCC) and on the carbon cycle is essential to provide guidance for environmental policies. In this study, we compiled historical LULCC and PAs data to explore these interactions within the terrestrial ecosystem model (TEM). We found that intensive LULCC occurred in the conterminous United States from 1700 to 2005. More than 3 million km2 of forest, grassland and shrublands were converted into agricultural lands, which caused 10,607 Tg C release from land ecosystems to atmosphere. PAs had experienced little LULCC as they were generally established in the 20th century after most of the agricultural expansion had occurred. PAs initially acted as a carbon source due to land use legacies, but their accumulated carbon budget switched to a carbon sink in the 1960s, sequestering an estimated 1,642 Tg C over 1700–2005, or 13.4% of carbon losses in non‐PAs. We also find that PAs maintain larger carbon stocks and continue sequestering carbon in recent years (2001–2005), but at a lower rate due to increased heterotrophic respiration as well as lower productivity associated to aging ecosystems. It is essential to continue efforts to maintain resilient, biodiverse ecosystems and avoid large‐scale disturbances that would release large amounts of carbon in PAs.
Teeth bleaching with low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (6%) and catalyzed by LED blue (450 ± 10 nm) and laser infrared (808 ± 10 nm) light for in‐office treatment: Randomized clinical trial 1‐year follow‐up
Authors: Vildósola Patricio , Bottner Jessica , Avalos Francisca , Godoy Isidora , Martín Javier , Fernández Eduardo
Published: July 2017

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate color longevity after a year of in‐office bleaching with gel (6% hydrogen peroxide HP, LED blue/laser infrared activation system) compared to a 35% control concentration in a split‐mouth study model.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐one patients were initially treated. The bleaching procedure with 6% or 35% gel HP was performed randomly in the upper half arcade of each patient. The color was measured at baseline and at 1 week, 1 month, and 1 year using the spectrophotometer Vita Easyshade, Vita Bleached, and Vita classical Shade guide organized by value. During the 1‐year recall, the color was assessed before and after dental prophylaxis.

Results

Only 27 patients were assessed in the 1‐year recall. There was a significant difference in the ΔE between the two groups at all times assessed (P < .011). The ΔL, Δa, and Δb showed significant difference between both groups at all assessed times (P < .038). There was no significant difference between the ΔSGU at all times (P > .05) except for the Vita bleachedguide postprophylaxis comparison (P < .05).

Conclusion

The two compounds remained effective at 1 year. When objectively evaluated, color difference between groups was found, not seen when subjectively determined.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

A low concentration hydrogen peroxide bleaching agent can reach good clinical results at 1 year of follow‐up.
Assessing attitudes and actions of pediatric dentists toward childhood obesity and sugar‐sweetened beverages
Authors: Wright Robin , Casamassimo Paul S.
Published: July 2017

Objectives

Childhood obesity is a major US health concern, and oral health professionals have opportunities to participate in an interprofessional effort to intervene owing to their access to young patients and their abilities in addressing obesity‐related dietary habits like consumption of sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSBs). This study determined attitudes, behaviors, future intentions, and perceived barriers of pediatric dentists regarding efforts to prevent childhood obesity and reduce children's consumption of SSBs.

Methods

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry conducted an online electronic survey with a convenience sample of approximately 7,450 pediatric dentists and pediatric dental residents during spring 2016.

Results

Over 17 percent of pediatric dentists offer childhood obesity interventions. Of those not providing interventions, 67 percent were interested in offering obesity‐prevention services. Nearly 94 percent of pediatric dentists offer information or other interventions on consumption of SSBs. Statistically significant barriers to providing healthy weight interventions were fear of offending parents, appearing judgmental, or creating parent dissatisfaction and a lack of parental acceptance of guidance about weight management from a dentist. Significant barriers to SSB interventions were sufficient time and health professional education.

Conclusions

More pediatric dentists stated they offer childhood obesity interventions than in previous surveys reporting 6 percent, but respondents suggested that a child's weight is seen as a medical rather than dental issue. Most pediatric dentists provide interventions related to consumption of SSBs, perceiving the issue as integral to their care of children.
Distribution and frequency of Bru1, a major brown rust resistance gene, in the sugarcane world collection
Authors: Parco Arnold S. , Hale Anna L. , Avellaneda Mavir C. , Hoy Jeffrey W. , Kimbeng Collins A. , Pontif Michael J. , McCord Per H. , Ayala‐Silva Tomas , Todd James R. , Baisakh Niranjan
Published: July 2017

Brown rust, caused by Puccinia melanocephala, is an important disease of sugarcane worldwide. Molecular markers for a major brown rust resistance gene, Bru1, were used to screen a total of 1,282 clones in the World Collection of Sugarcane and Related Grasses (WCSRG) to determine the distribution and frequency of the gene in Saccharum species and related genera. Bru1 was found across all species within the Saccharum complex, but the frequency varied among species. Bru1 was more prevalent in S. robustum clones (59.1%), whereas it occurred in low frequency and exhibited the highest level of variability as determined by the presence of one or both markers (18.8%) in clones of S. spontaneum. Bru1 frequency was highest in the two secondary cultivated species, S. barberi (79.3%) and S. sinense (71.8%). The frequency of Bru1 was 26.4% and 21.0% in S. officinarum and interspecific hybrid clones, respectively. Knowledge of the distribution and frequency of Bru1 in the WCSRG will complement efforts to characterize diversity in the Saccharum complex for the expected expanded use of marker‐assisted selection in the future.
Expression of interferon regulatory factor 7 correlates with the expression of Epstein–Barr Virus latent membrane protein 1 and cervical lymph node metastasis in nasopharyngeal cancer
Authors: Kondo Satoru , Endo Kazuhira , Wakisaka Naohiro , Aga Mitsuharu , Kano Makoto , Seishima Noriko , Imoto Tomoko , Kobayashi Eiji , Moriyama‐Kita Makiko , Nakanishi Yosuke , Murono Shigeyuki , Pagano Joseph S. , Yoshizaki Tomokazu
Published: July 2017

Interferon regulatory factor 7 (IRF7) has oncogenic properties in several malignancies such as Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐associated lymphoma. However, there is no evidence whether IRF7 is associated with the oncogenesis of nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC), the pathogenesis of which is closely associated with EBV. Herein, we report that expression of IRF7 was increased in normal nasopharyngeal cells that expressed the EBV principal oncoprotein, latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1). In addition, IRF7 was mainly expressed in the nucleus in both normal nasopharyngeal cells and nasopharyngeal cancer cells that expresses LMP1. On immunohistochemical analysis, IRF7 was predominantly localized in the nucleus in biopsy samples of NPC tissues. In total, IRF7 expression was detected with 36 of 49 specimens of these tissues. Furthermore, the expression score of IRF7 correlated with the expression score of LMP1. Moreover, the expression score of IRF7 is associated with cervical lymph‐node metastasis, which reflects the highly metastatic nature of this cancer. Taken together, our results suggest that expression of IRF7 is one of the metastatic effectors of LMP1 signalling in EBV‐associated NPC.
Resolution rate of pulmonary sarcoidosis and its related factors in a Japanese population
Authors: Hattori Takeshi , Konno Satoshi , Shijubo Noriharu , Ohmichi Mitsuhide , Yamaguchi Tetsuo , Nishimura Masaharu
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

A number of previous studies have reported on the rate of resolution of pulmonary sarcoidosis and its associated factors. However, most of the studies were conducted several decades ago and no similar surveys have been conducted in recent years. The aim of this study was to evaluate the rate of resolution of pulmonary sarcoidosis and its related factors in recently diagnosed patients, and to compare the results with those from previous studies.

Methods

This study included 306 patients who had been newly diagnosed with pulmonary sarcoidosis between 2000 and 2009 in Sapporo, Japan. Chest radiographical findings were assessed at the initial visit and at the 2‐ or 5‐year observation points. The rates of resolution on chest radiographs and the association with clinical manifestations were evaluated.

Results

The resolution rates were 17.9% at the 2‐year and 29.9% at the 5‐year observation point. These rates were lower than those reported in the earlier surveys. Younger subjects (aged <40 years) showed resolution more often (P < 0.05). The absence of extra‐pulmonary organ involvement was associated with resolution at 5 years (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The clinical course of pulmonary sarcoidosis may be changing, showing a tendency not to resolve. At least in part, this may be due to the ageing of the Japanese population.
Training and proficiency in endobronchial ultrasound‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration: A systematic review
Authors: Sehgal Inderpaul S. , Dhooria Sahajal , Aggarwal Ashutosh N. , Agarwal Ritesh
Published: July 2017

ABSTRACT

Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS)‐guided transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) is currently the modality of choice for evaluation of mediastinal lymphadenopathy. However, there is still uncertainty regarding the training methodology and the number of procedures required to attain proficiency in EBUS. Herein, we performed a systematic review of studies selected from PubMed, EmBase and Scopus databases describing the training and assessment of proficiency during EBUS, specifically studies investigating various methods for training, its outcome and the number of procedures required to overcome the learning curve for EBUS. Twenty‐seven (simulator‐based learning (n = 8), tools for assessing competence in EBUS‐TBNA (n = 5) and threshold numbers needed to attain proficiency in EBUS‐TBNA (n = 16)) studies were identified. An EBUS simulator accurately stratified individuals based on the level of experience in performing EBUS. Training received on a simulator was comparable with traditional apprentice‐based training. Importantly, skills acquired on a simulator could be transferred to real‐world patients. The number needed to overcome the initial learning curve of EBUS varied from 10 to 100 in individual studies with a mean of 37–44 procedures. Tools such as EBUS‐STAT (EBUS skill and task assessment tool) and EBUSAT (EBUS skill and assessment tool) were effective in evaluating the EBUS trainees.

We conclude that an EBUS simulator or EBUS assessment tools can objectively assess the training of an EBUS trainee. Simulator‐based training is a useful modality in EBUS training. The number of procedures needed to overcome the initial learning curve is about 40. Centres involved in EBUS training could incorporate simulator‐based training in their curriculum before allowing operators to perform EBUS on patients.
‘Unfit for human consumption’: a study of the contamination of formula milk fed to young children in East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Gibson Sarah , Sahanggamu Daniel , Fatmaningrum Dewi , Curtis Val , White Sian
Published: July 2017

Objectives

To examine levels of bacterial contamination in formula feeding bottles in Sidoarjo, East Java, and to assess the preparation practices that may have been responsible.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among 92 randomly selected households with children under the age of two who were bottle‐fed formula. In each household, we carried out video observation of mothers/caregivers preparing bottles, and examined samples of formula for coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli (E. coli). In‐depth interviews were conducted with a subsample of 20 mothers.

Results

A total of 88% of the formula feeds were contaminated with total coliforms at a level >10 MPN/ml, and 45% contained E. coli. These feeds were defined as ‘unfit for human consumption’. In the video observations, none of the mothers complied with all five WHO‐recommended measures of hygienic formula feed preparation. Only two mothers washed their hands with soap prior to formula preparation. Most mothers also failed to clean or sterilise the bottle and clean the preparation area. In‐depth interviews confirmed that such suboptimal hygiene practices were common.

Conclusion

The high levels of contamination found highlight that bottles are an important faecal‐oral exposure pathway resulting from poor hygiene practices during bottle preparation.
Clinical features and treatment response of cutaneous leishmaniasis in North‐West Ethiopia
Authors: Fikre Helina , Mohammed Rezika , Atinafu Saba , van Griensven Johan , Diro Ermias
Published: July 2017

Objective

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) receives far less attention than visceral leishmaniasis. Nevertheless, CL is predominantly caused by a unique species in Ethiopia (L. aethiopica), which is known to cause severe forms such as diffuse (DCL) and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis (MCL). We report on the number and type of CL cases diagnosed, the clinical features, the treatments and treatment outcomes in North‐West Ethiopia.

Methods

This is a retrospective chart record analysis of CL patients treated at the Leishmania Research and Treatment Center (LRTC) of the University of Gondar, Ethiopia.

Results

From 178 CL patients seen between January 2014 and December 2015, a total of 154 chart records were retrieved. These included 80 localised CL (LCL), 7 DCL and 67 MCL. The median age was 23 years; 71.4% were male. Most (n = 121, 78.6%) of the lesions were on the face. The median time since onset was 12 months (6–24 months), and 28.6% presented after a trial of traditional medicine. The treatment of all forms of CL mainly consisted of 30 days of IM antimonial injections. Of these, 51/133 (38.3%) required treatment extension or change due to nonresponse. Three cases were treated with liposomal amphotericin B or miltefosine (two received the combination), of which two responded well.

Conclusion

CL was found to be complicated and difficult to treat. MCL was common, and patients presented after long delays. There is an urgent need to look for better treatment options for CL and improve access to care.
Nutritional status is the major factor affecting grip strength of African HIV patients before and during antiretroviral treatment
Authors: Filteau S. , PrayGod G. , Woodd S. L. , Friis H. , Heimburger D. C. , Koethe J. R. , Kelly P. , Kasonka L. , Rehman A. M.
Published: July 2017

Objectives

Low grip strength is a marker of frailty and a risk factor for mortality among HIV patients and other populations. We investigated factors associated with grip strength in malnourished HIV patients at referral to ART, and at 12 weeks and 2–3 years after starting ART.

Methods

The study involved HIV‐infected Zambian and Tanzanian participants recruited to the NUSTART trial when malnourished (body mass index <18.5 kg/m2) and requiring ART. The relationship of grip strength to nutritional, infectious and demographic factors was assessed by multivariable linear regression at referral for ART (n = 1742) and after 12 weeks (n = 778) and 2–3 years of ART (n = 273).

Results

In analyses controlled only for sex, age and height, most nutrition and infection‐related variables were associated with grip strength. However, in multivariable analyses, consistent associations were seen for fat‐free mass index, mid‐upper arm circumference, haemoglobin and systolic blood pressure, and a variable association with fat mass index in men. C‐reactive protein and CD4 count had limited independent effects on grip strength, while receiving tuberculosis treatment was associated with weaker grip strength.

Conclusions

In this population of originally malnourished HIV patients, poor grip strength was more strongly and independently associated with nutritional than with infection and inflammation variables. Programmes to improve health and survival of HIV patients should incorporate nutritional assessment and management and could use grip strength as a functional indicator of improving nutrition.
Proteomic analysis reveals the enhancement of human serum apolipoprotein A‐1(APO A‐1) in individuals infected with multiple dengue virus serotypes
Authors: Manchala Nageswar Reddy , Dungdung Ranjeet , Pilankatta Rajendra
Published: July 2017

Objectives

Human serum protein profiling of the individual infected with multiple dengue virus serotypes for identifying the potential biomarkers and to investigate the cause for the severity of dengue virus infection.

Methods

Dengue virus NS1‐positive serum samples were pooled into two groups (S2 and S3) based on the molecular serotyping and number of heterotypic infections. The pooled serum samples were subjected to two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DGE) to identify the differentially expressed proteins. The peptide masses of upregulated protein were detected by matrix‐assisted laser desorption–ionisation time‐of‐flight MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry and analysed by MASCOT search engine. The results were compared with the control group (S1). The commonly upregulated protein was validated by quantitative ELISA and compared with control as well as single serotypic infected samples.

Results

Based on 2DGE, total thirteen proteins were differentially upregulated in S2 and S3 groups as compared to control. Some of the upregulated proteins were involved in mediating the complement activation of immune response. The apolipoprotein A‐1 (APO A‐1) was upregulated in S2 and S3 groups. Upon validation, APO A‐1 levels were increased in line with the number of heterotypic infection of dengue viruses.

Conclusion

Heterotypic infection of dengue viruses upregulate the serum proteins involved in the complement pathway in the early phase of infection. There was a significant increase in the level of APO A‐1 in three different serotypic infections of dengue virus as compared to control. Further, the role of APO‐A1 can be explored in elucidating the mechanism of dengue pathogenesis.
Hematologic reference intervals and age effect in European Strigiformes
Authors: Agusti Montolio Susana , Molina López Rafael , Cray Carolyn , Lavín González Santiago , Nicolás Francisco Olga , Marco Sánchez Ignasi , Casas‐Díaz Encarna , Cuenca Valera Rafaela
Published: July 2017

Background

The clinical importance of hematologic testing in avian veterinary medicine is reflected in the increasing number of studies for the establishment of hematologic RIs of Strigiformes and other species. Age is an important physiologic factor in birds and the effect on hematology variable should be understood.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine baseline data of hematologic variables in 5 species of Iberian Strigiformes in different age classes.

Methods

Nocturnal birds of prey were sampled at Wildlife Health Centers. Packed cell volume was determined by the microhematocrit centrifugation method, and RBC and WBC counts were determined using the direct hemocytometer count method with Natt and Herrick solution. Hemoglobin concentration was measured spectrophotometrically. The MCV, MCHC, and MHC were calculated using the standard formulas. The differential WBC count was performed by the routine microscopic evaluation of 200 cells on a blood smear manually stained with Wright stain. Thrombocyte blood count estimate was obtained from the blood film.

Results

No differences were observed between juveniles and adults for any variable evaluated in Tawny owl, Little owl, Scops owl, Long‐eared owl, and Barn owl. In addition, PCV, RBC, and HGB of chicks were statistically significantly lower than in juveniles and adults, and total WBC was significantly higher in Tawny owl, Little owl, Scops owl, and Long‐eared owl.

Conclusions

Our findings provide evidence that laboratory data from chicks of Strigiformes are different compared to juveniles and adults; therefore, separate RIs were defined.
Classification of Diffusion Tensor Metrics for the Diagnosis of a Myelopathic Cord Using Machine Learning
Authors: Wang Shuqiang , Hu Yong , Shen Yanyan , Li Hanxiong
Published: July 2017

In this study, we propose an automated framework that combines diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) metrics with machine learning algorithms to accurately classify control groups and groups with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) in the spinal cord. The comparison between selected voxel-based classification and mean value-based classification were performed. A support vector machine (SVM) classifier using a selected voxel-based dataset produced an accuracy of 95.73%, sensitivity of 93.41% and specificity of 98.64%. The efficacy of each index of diffusion for classification was also evaluated. Using the proposed approach, myelopathic areas in CSM are detected to provide an accurate reference to assist spine surgeons in surgical planning in complicated cases.
Antiautomorphisms with quasi-generalized Engel condition
Authors: Chacron M.
Published: July 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be a ring with 1. Given elements [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] and the integer [Formula: see text] define [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. We say that a given antiautomorphism [Formula: see text] of [Formula: see text] is commuting if [Formula: see text], all [Formula: see text]. More generally, assume that [Formula: see text] satisfies the condition [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] are corresponding positive integers depending on [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] ranges over [Formula: see text]. To what extent can one say that [Formula: see text] is commuting? In this paper, we answer the question in the affirmative if R is a prime ring containing some idempotent element [Formula: see text]. In the diametrically opposed case in which [Formula: see text] is a division ring the answer is again yes provided [Formula: see text] is algebraic over its center and [Formula: see text] is of finite order. These two major complementary results will be put to work to provide an answer to the general question.
Reactive DC Magnetron Sputtered ZnO Thin Films for Piezoelectric Application
Authors: Abinaya M. , Dhanisha K. M. , Manoj Cristopher M. , Deepak Raj P. , Jeyadheepan K. , Sridharan M.
Published: July 2017

Zinc oxide (ZnO) films have been sputter coated over glass substrates at different cathode powers. Influence of cathode power on physical characteristics of ZnO samples was analyzed using X-ray diffractometer (XRD), field emission-scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), UV-Visible spectrophotometer and four-point probe (FPP) method. XRD patterns exhibited [Formula: see text]-axis-oriented ZnO and enhanced crystallinity with increase in cathode power due to the increase in adatom mobility. Uniformly arranged spherical grains were observed from FE-SEM images. The grain size increased from 25 to 40[Formula: see text]nm with increase in power. All samples exhibited high electrical resistance (G[Formula: see text]) which is compatible for piezoelectric application.
Elasto-Acoustic Coupling Between Two Circular Cylinders and Dense Fluid
Authors: Mnassri Ilyes , El Baroudi Adil
Published: July 2017

This paper describes a theoretical method for free vibration analysis of two elastic and isotropic cylinders filled with a dense fluid. The free vibration of two cylinders is studied on the basis of the linear three-dimensional elasticity theory. The compressible fluid is assumed to be nonviscous and isotropic which satisfy the acoustic wave equation. In this paper, the coupled dispersion equations of longitudinal, flexural and lobar modes are deduced and analytically solved. The finite element results computed by the Comsol Multiphysics software are compared with the present method for validation and an acceptable match between them was obtained. It is shown that the results from the proposed method are in good agreement with the numerical solutions. With this method, the effects of the cylinder parameters, such as the circumferential wave, the axial wavenumber, the thickness-to-radius and the length-to-radius on the coupled frequencies are investigated.
A Symbolic Approach to the Multibody Modeling of Road Vehicles
Authors: Lot Roberto , Massaro Matteo
Published: July 2017

This paper introduces MBSymba, an object-oriented language for the modeling of multibody systems and the automatic generation of equations of motion in symbolic form. MBSymba has built upon the general-purpose computer algebra software Maple and it is freely available for teaching and research purposes. With MBSymba, objects such as points, vectors, rigid bodies, forces and torques, and the relationships among them may be defined and manipulated both at high and low levels. Absolute, relative or mixed coordinates may be used, as well as combination of infinitesimal and noninfinitesimal variables. Once the system has been modeled, Lagrange’s and/or Newton’s equations can be derived in a quasi-automatic way, either in an inertial or noninertial reference frame. Equations can be automatically converted into Matlab, C/C++ or Fortan code to produce stand alone, numerically optimized simulation code. MBSymba is particularly suited for the modeling of ground, water or air vehicles; therefore, the mathematical model of a passenger car with trailer is illustrated as a case study. Time domain simulations, steady state analysis and stability results are also presented.
Dynamic and Static Properties of Double-Layered Compound Acoustic Black Hole Structures
Authors: Zhou Tong , Tang Liling , Ji Hongli , Qiu Jinhao , Cheng Li
Published: July 2017

The “acoustic black hole” (ABH) phenomenon can be exploited for flexural vibration suppressions in beam and plate structures. Conventional ABH structures, however, are tied with the inherent structural weakness due to the low local stiffness required and possibly high stress concentration caused by the small residual cross-section thickness of the ABH taper, thus hampering their practical applications. In this study, the dynamic and static properties of a compound ABH beam are investigated through numerical simulations. It is shown that, whilst ensuring an effective ABH effect, the compound ABH structure allows a significant improvement in the static properties of the structure. For the former, the compound design is shown to outperform its counterpart in the conventional ABH configuration in terms of the damping enhancement and the vibration suppression. For the latter, the compound ABH structure is also shown to provide much better static properties in terms of structural stiffness and strength. Meanwhile, the structural damping can be further improved by using an extended platform at the tip of tailored profile, which improves the structural strength but reduces the structural stiffness at the same time. Therefore, when choosing the platform length, a balance needs to be struck among the desired ABH effect and the mechanical properties of the structure.
Thermal Effects on the Vibration of Functionally Graded Deep Beams with Porosity
Authors: Akbaş Şeref Doğuşcan
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study is to investigate the thermal effects on the free vibration of functionally graded (FG) porous deep beams. Mechanical properties of the FG deep beam are temperature-dependent and vary across the height direction with different porosity models. The governing equations problem is obtained by using the Hamilton’s principle. In the solution of the problem, plane piecewise solid continua model and finite element method are used. The effects of porosity parameters, material distribution, porosity models and temperature rising on the vibration characteristics are presented and discussed with porosity effects for FG deep beams.
Skew cyclic codes over Fq + uFq + vFq
Authors: Ashraf Mohammad , Mohammad Ghulam
Published: July 2017

In this paper, we study skew cyclic codes over the ring [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] is a prime. We define a Gray map from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text] and investigate the structural properties of skew cyclic codes over [Formula: see text] using decomposition method. It is shown that the Gray images of skew cyclic codes of length [Formula: see text] over [Formula: see text] are the skew [Formula: see text]-quasi cyclic codes of length [Formula: see text] over [Formula: see text]. Finally, the idempotent generators of skew cyclic codes over [Formula: see text] have also been discussed.
Generic type of Ahlswede–Zhang style identities
Authors: Thu Tran Dan
Published: July 2017

We introduce a generic identity based on the Ahlswede–Zhang (AZ) function, which can be considered as a template to establish AZ-style identities. Many AZ-style identities can be derived from the generic identity.
Specific Central Nervous System Medications Are Associated with Temporomandibular Joint Symptoms
Authors: Drisdale III John K. , Thornhill Monica G. , Vieira Alexandre R.
Published: July 2017

Aims. There is evidence of association between bruxism and the increasingly common central nervous system stimulants prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), as well as the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) often prescribed for depression or anxiety. However, the evidence is not clear on whether these medications inducing bruxism are directly associated with temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). The aim of this work is to evaluate whether these medications are associated with TMD symptoms.Methods. Medical history and participant data were obtained for 469 patients from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Dental Registry and DNA Repository, dating back to 2006. The chi-square test was used to determine any statistically significant associations.Results. There were no statistically significant associations between ADHD stimulant medications or SSRIs and reported TMD symptoms. However, there were significant differences seen between specific brands of medications and reported TMD symptoms. Individuals prescribed methylphenidate (Concerta) were less likely to report temporomandibular joint discomfort (p=0.01). Conversely, individuals prescribed citalopram (Celexa) were more likely to report temporomandibular joint discomfort (p=0.04).Conclusion. Signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint dysfunction may be influenced by the use of certain medications prescribed for depression or attention deficit hyperactive disorder.
Maintenance of a Schwann-Like Phenotype in Differentiated Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Requires the Synergistic Action of Multiple Growth Factors
Authors: Mortimer Alice E. , Faroni Alessandro , Kilic Mahmut A. , Reid Adam J.
Published: July 2017

Differentiating human adipose-derived stem cells (ASCs) towards Schwann cells produces an unstable phenotype when stimulating factors are withdrawn. Here, we set out to examine the role of glial growth factor 2 (GGF-2) in the maintenance of Schwann-like cells. Following ASC differentiation to Schwann-like cells, stimulating factors were withdrawn such that cells either remained in media supplemented with all stimulating factors, GGF-2 alone, or underwent complete withdrawal of all factors. Furthermore, each stimulating factor was also removed from the growth medium individually. At 72 hours, gene (qRT-PCR) and protein (ELISA) expression of key Schwann cell factors were quantified and cell morphology was analysed. Cells treated with GGF-2 alone reverted to a stem cell morphology and did not stimulate the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), regardless of the concentration of GGF-2 in the growth medium. However, GGF-2 alone increased the expression of Krox20, the main transcription factor involved in myelination, relative to those cells treated with all stimulating factors. Cells lacking fibroblast growth factor were unable to maintain a Schwann-like morphology, and those lacking forskolin exhibited a downregulation in BDNF production. Therefore, it is likely that the synergistic action of multiple growth factors is required to maintain Schwann-like phenotype in differentiated ASCs.
The Influence of Lunar Phases on Complications in Cataract Surgery: An Analysis of 16,965 Patients
Authors: Faschinger Eva-Maria , Vécsei-Marlovits Pia Veronika , Rabensteiner Dieter Franz , Weingessel Birgit
Published: July 2017

Purpose. Popular beliefs exert an impact of lunar phases on elective surgery. The aim of our study was to evaluate potential correlations between complications in cataract surgery and the phases of the moon during its passage through the zodiac and Fridays that fall on the 13th. Methods. Patients with complications during cataract surgery were extracted retrospectively from the clinical database from 2010 to 2014. The dates of surgeries were viewed in relation to the phase and the position of the moon (sign of the zodiac). Results. Of 16,965 cataract surgeries, 132 eyes developed complications. 0.70% developed complications with a waxing moon, and 0.87% with a waning moon (p=0.745). After Bonferroni correction, there were no statistically significant differences between the numbers of complications under the different signs of the zodiac and no complications on Fridays that fell on the 13th. Conclusions. The analysis of “non-moon-fitting days” for surgery showed quantitative differences, without statistically significant findings. Our results revealed more complications when the moon was waning, which is in contrast to esoteric belief. Patients may be informed that phases of the moon, signs of the zodiac, or a particular date will have no impact on their surgeries.
Effect of Glucocorticoids on Ultrastructure of Myocardial Muscle in the Course of Experimentally Induced Acute Myocardial Ischemia
Authors: Kuropka Piotr , Dobrzyński Maciej , Gamian Andrzej , Gostomska-Pampuch Kinga , Kuryszko Jan , Całkosiński Ireneusz
Published: July 2017

The search for effective methods of myocardial cytoprotection against ischemia is the most significant issue in modern cardiology and cardiac surgery. Glucocorticoids are deemed very strong modulators of inflammatory response and thus can potentially protect heart muscle from postreperfusion injury and myocardial ischemia during cardiac surgery. Ultrastructural examination of the left ventricle heart samples revealed that the intravenous application of dexamethasone and hydrocortisone proved to exert cytoprotective effect on cardiomyocytes during experimentally induced acute ischemia in rats.