bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary results from the use of intraoperative real‐time biliary oxygen monitoring in liver transplantation
Authors: Ciria Ruben , Navarro Elena , Sánchez‐Frías Marina , Gallardo Ana‐Belen , Medina Javier , Ayllón María‐Dolores , Gomez‐Luque Irene , Ruiz-Rabelo Juan , Luque Antonio , de la Mata Manuel , Rufián Sebastián , López‐Cillero Pedro , Briceño Javier
Published: October 2018

Background and aims

Biliary anastomosis is a frequent area of complications after liver transplantation (LT) and a potential area of “microangiopathy”. The concept of a “marginal bile duct” is unexplored. The main aim was to make a preliminary evaluation of the utility of an innovative real‐time oxygen microtension (pO2mt) testing device for the assessment of bile duct viability during LT and to correlate these pO2mt values with microvascular tissue quality by histopathology and outcomes.

Patients and methods

Observational prospective cohort study with 23 patients. Oxygen microtension measurements were made placing a micropO2 probe in different areas of recipient and donor’s bile duct intraoperative.

Results

Mean pO2mt in the graft bile duct at the level of the anastomosis 103.82 (31‐157) mm Hg, being 121.52 (55‐174) mm Hg 1.5 cm proximal to the hilar plate (P < 0.001). Mean pO2mt in the recipient’s bile duct was 117.87 (62‐185) mm Hg, while a value of 137.30 (81‐198) mm Hg was observed 1.5 cm distal to the anastomosis (P < 0.001). Cystic duct resection (12 cases) was also related with higher pO2mt values at anastomosis [117.8 (93‐157) vs 88.54 (31‐124) mm Hg] and distal to anastomosis [135.6 (111‐174) vs 106.2 (55‐133) mm Hg; P < 0.001]. Patients with 1‐, 3‐, and 12‐month biliary complications had significantly lower pO2mt in the intraoperative measurements.

Conclusion

Our preliminary results show that distal borders of donor and recipient bile ducts may be low‐vascularized areas. Tissue pO2mt is significantly higher in areas close to the hilar plate and to the duodenum in donor and recipient’s sides, respectively. Bile duct injury and biliary complications are associated with worse tissue pO2mt.
Habitat discontinuities form strong barriers to gene flow among mangrove populations, despite the capacity for long‐distance dispersal
Authors: Binks Rachel M. , Byrne Margaret , McMahon Kathryn , Pitt Georgina , Murray Kathy , Evans Richard D.
Published: October 2018

Aim

Mangrove forests are among the world's most important ecosystems but are declining rapidly worldwide. Effective conservation management requires a better understanding of the patterns and drivers of gene flow across a range of spatial scales. Despite the capacity for long‐distance propagule dispersal, field studies suggest that mangrove propagules tend not to disperse far from the release point, which has important implications for the impact of habitat discontinuities on gene flow. We use a comprehensive seascape genomics approach to investigate this concept in the world's most widely distributed mangrove species, Avicennia marina.

Location

Twenty‐one sites along 2,400 km of Western Australian coastline.

Methods

We used 6,162 neutral SNP loci and a hierarchical sampling design to investigate patterns of gene flow and structuring among 21 populations of A. marina. We combined these data with GIS spatial analyses in a regression model to test the relative influence of habitat continuity and geographic distance on patterns of genetic differentiation.

Results

We found a complex pattern of gene flow; broadscale isolation‐by‐distance, disrupted by strong genetic discontinuities that coincided with gaps in mangrove distribution. These genetic discontinuities formed seven discrete subpopulations with negligible evidence for recent migration among them. The regression model combining marine geographic distance and habitat continuity as explanatory variables best fit the data, explaining 86% of the total genetic variation.

Main Conclusions

Our results validate previous assertions that propagule dispersal in A. marina is spatially limited and demonstrate that significant gaps in mangrove distribution present strong barriers to stepping‐stone gene flow in this species. This reiterates that dispersive life history features cannot be assumed to lead to widespread connectivity and demonstrates that effective management of these important ecosystem builders should prioritize restoring habitat continuity and minimizing further fragmentation.
Cognitive, adaptive, and behavioral profiles and management of alternating hemiplegia of childhood
Authors: Jasien Joan M , Bonner Melanie , D'alli Richard , Prange Lyndsey , Mclean Melissa , Sachdev Monisha , Uchitel Julie , Ricano Jennifer , Smith Brian , Mikati Mohamad A
Published: October 2018

Aim

To determine the neuropsychological abnormalities that occur in alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC) and report on our experience in managing them.

Method

Patients underwent evaluations according to our standardized AHC pathway. Data were entered into our prospective AHC database and then analyzed.

Results

Of the cohort of 25 consecutive patients (ages 15mo–42y), eight had initial chief complaints about cognition, 14 language, five attention, and 11 behavior. As compared to population norms means, neuropsychological and behavioral assessment tools (including Child Behavior Checklist, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Peabody Picture Vocabulary, and Wechsler Intelligence Quotient tests) showed significant impairments in multiple domains: cognition, expressive and receptive language, executive function/attention, and behavior (p<0.05 in all comparisons). Evaluations generated management recommendations in all patients. Twenty had neuropsychiatric diagnoses: 10 attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), seven disruptive behavior, and three anxiety disorder. Eight out of nine patients with ADHD who were prescribed medications responded to pharmacotherapy.

Interpretation

Patients with AHC have developmental difficulties related to impairments in multiple neuropsychological domains. This supports the hypothesis that the underlying AHC pathophysiology involves diffuse neuronal dysfunction. Testing generated recommendations to help manage these difficulties. Patients with AHC also have a range of neuropsychiatric diagnoses, the most common being ADHD which responds to pharmacotherapy.

What this paper adds

Patients with alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC) have developmental difficulties with underlying neuropsychological impairments.

The findings in this study are consistent with an underlying AHC pathophysiology which involves diffuse neuronal, probably largely GABAergic, dysfunction.

Patients with AHC have a range of neuropsychiatric diagnoses, the most common being attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Mental health disorders and physical risk factors in children with cerebral palsy: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Whitney Daniel G , Warschausky Seth A , Peterson Mark D
Published: October 2018

Aim

To examine the prevalence of mental health disorders among children with and without cerebral palsy (CP), and to examine how physical risk factors in children with CP might mitigate any elevated risk of mental health disorders in this population.

Method

Children from 6 years to 17 years of age with (n=111) and without (n=29 909) CP from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health were included in this cross‐sectional study. Mental health disorders included depression, anxiety, behavior/conduct problems, and attention deficit disorder/attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Physical risk factors included physical activity (number of active days ≥60min), sleep duration, and pain.

Results

Adjusting for sociodemographics, children with CP had higher odds of mental health disorders (odds ratio [OR]=2.7–7.1, p<0.05) except for attention deficit disorder/ADHD (OR=2.5; 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.9–7.1). Further adjusting for physical factors, the odds of depression were no longer increased (i.e. attenuated) in children with CP (OR=1.0; 95% CI=0.3–3.3); however, the odds of anxiety (OR=3.8; 95% CI=1.9–7.8) and behavior/conduct problems (OR=3.8; 95% CI=1.3–11.1) remained elevated. Assessed individually, low physical activity and pain attenuated the odds of depression in children with CP (OR=1.9; 95% CI=0.7–5.3; OR=1.4; 95% CI=0.6–3.8 respectively).

Interpretation

Children with CP have an elevated prevalence of mental health disorders even after accounting for physical risk factors. Low physical activity and pain partially accounts for the association between CP and depression.

What this paper adds

Children with cerebral palsy (CP) have an elevated risk of developing mental health disorders.

Physical factors do not fully account for higher mental health disorder prevalence.

Physical activity partially accounts for the relationship between CP and depression.

Pain partially accounts for the relationship between CP and depression.
Caudal regression syndrome in a fetus of a glucokinase‐maturity‐onset diabetes of the young pregnancy
Authors: Taylor R. A. M. , Mackie A. , Mogra R. , Pinner J. , Rajendran S. , Ross G. P.
Published: October 2018

Background

Glucokinase‐maturity‐onset diabetes of the young (GCK‐MODY) is a form of diabetes caused by heterozygous inactivating mutations in the GCK gene. Affected individuals maintain their fasting glucose levels at a higher set point (5.4–8.3 mmol/l) than the general population. Hyperglycaemia in women with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes is known to confer increased risk of fetal congenital abnormalities. The association between GCK‐MODY and congenital abnormalities, however, remains uncertain.

Case report

A 35‐year‐old woman in her third pregnancy was diagnosed with gestational diabetes at 13 weeks’ gestation (fasting blood glucose 6.0 mmol/L, 1‐h blood glucose 9.2 mmol/l, 2‐h blood glucose 7.3 mmol/l). The morphology scan at 19+2 weeks’ gestation showed a Type III sacral agenesis. The woman elected to terminate the pregnancy. Her postpartum oral glucose tolerance test was suggestive of GCK‐MODY (fasting blood glucose 7.4 mmol/l, 1‐h blood glucose 9.3 mmol/l, 2‐h blood glucose 7.3 mmol/l). Mutation analysis of the GCK gene identified a novel heterozygous GCK missense mutation, p.V199M, classified as likely pathogenic, providing molecular confirmation of the suspected GCK‐MODY diagnosis.

Discussion

Sacral agenesis is a rare form of sacral abnormality affecting 0.005% to 0.1% of pregnancies. It is a subtype of the caudal regression sequence, a cardinal feature of diabetic embryopathy. This case raises the question as to whether hyperglycaemia in GCK‐MODY may increase the risk of fetal caudal regression syndrome as reported in women with pre‐existing diabetes mellitus. Improved diagnostic rates of GCK‐MODY, and MODY registers that include pregnancy outcomes, are important to further elucidate risk of congenital abnormalities in GCK‐MODY.
Spatial synchrony in Drosophila suzukii population dynamics along elevational gradients
Authors: Santoiemma Giacomo , Fioretto Damiano , Corcos Daria , Mori Nicola , Marini Lorenzo
Published: October 2018

1. Spotted wing drosophila (SWD; Drosophila suzukii Matsumura, 1931) is a polyphagous invasive crop pest native of Southeast Asia able to attack a wide array of host plant species in both cultivated and natural habitats. SWD is now widespread in several mountain regions, but it is still unclear how the species moves to different elevations across the seasons, and how this depends on environmental conditions and food resources.

2. The temporal dynamics of several SWD populations were studied along elevational gradients in the Alps using a synchrony analysis. Twelve transects were selected, covering an overall elevational gradient of 2100 m. SWD abundance was monitored every 2 weeks during the growing season (from June to November 2015) when cultivated and wild hosts are potentially susceptible (i.e. fruits are ripe).

3. Spotted wing drosophila were widely distributed along all the tested elevations, revealing synchrony in population dynamics across ranges in elevation and geographic distance. Synchronised populations were observed at distances of up to 100 km at sites with similar temperatures. The high dispersal potential of the pest together with the seasonal variation in temperature are likely to be the dominant mechanisms causing the observed spatial synchrony. A factor that seemed to reduce synchrony is the large concentration of host plants (i.e. crop) in lowland agricultural landscapes.

4. The spatial synchrony in pest abundance at large spatial scale indicates that the risk of SWD outbreaks is highly dependent on drivers beyond the control of traditional field‐scale management. These findings could help in developing monitoring and predictive models of SWD population dynamics.
Pharmacological induction of Heat Shock Protein 70 by celastrol protects motoneurons from excitotoxicity in rat spinal cord in vitro
Authors: Petrović Antonela , Kaur Jaspreet , Tomljanović Ivana , Nistri Andrea , Mladinic Miranda
Published: October 2018

The secondary phase of spinal cord injury arising after the primary lesion largely extends the damage severity with delayed negative consequences for sensory‐motor pathways. It is, therefore, important to find out if enhancing intrinsic mechanisms of neuroprotection can spare motoneurons that are very vulnerable cells. This issue was investigated with an in vitro model of rat spinal cord excitotoxicity monitored for up to 24 hr after the primary injury evoked by kainate. This study sought to pharmacologically boost the expression of heat shock proteins (HSP) to protect spinal motoneurons using celastrol to investigate if the rat spinal cord can upregulate HSP as neuroprotective mechanism. Despite its narrow range of drug safety in vitro, celastrol was not toxic to the rat spinal cord at 0.75 μM concentration and enhanced the expression of HSP70 by motoneurons. When celastrol was applied either before or after kainate, the number of dead motoneurons was significantly decreased and the nuclear localization of the cell death biomarker AIF strongly inhibited. Nevertheless, electrophysiological recording showed that protection of lumbar motor networks by celastrol was rather limited as reflex activity was impaired and fictive locomotion largely depressed, suggesting that functional deficit persisted, though the networks could express slow rhythmic oscillations. While our data do not exclude further recovery at later times beyond the experimental observations, the present results indicate that the upregulated expression of HSP in the aftermath of acute injury may be an interesting avenue for early protection of spinal motoneurons.
Mutations in the guanylate cyclasegcy‐28neuronally dissociate naïve attraction and memory retrieval
Authors: Li Naijin , van der Kooy Derek
Published: October 2018

The molecules and mechanisms that are involved in the acquisition, storage, and retrieval of memories in many organisms are unclear. To investigate these processes, we use the nematode wormCaenorhabditis elegans, which is attracted naïvely to the odorant benzaldehyde but learns to avoid it after paired exposure with starvation. Mutations in the receptor‐like guanylate cyclaseGCY‐28 have previously been thought to result in a behavioral switch in the primary chemosensory neuronAWCON, from an attractive state to an aversive (already‐learned) state. Here, we offer a different interpretation and show thatGCY‐28 functions in distinct neurons to modulate two independent processes: naïve attraction toAWCON‐sensed odors in theAWCONneuron, and associative learning of benzaldehyde and starvation in theAIAinterneurons. Consequently, mutants that lackgcy‐28do not approachAWCON‐sensed odors and cannot associate benzaldehyde with starvation. We further show that this learning deficit lies in memory retrieval, not in its acquisition or storage, and thatGCY‐28 is required inAIAfor sensory integration only when bothAWCneurons (ONandOFF) are activated by chemical stimuli. Our results reveal a novel role ofGCY‐28 in the retrieval of associative memories and may have wide implications for the neural machineries of learning and memory in general.
Assessment of ventral tegmental area‐projecting GABAergic neurons from the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis in modulating binge‐like ethanol intake
Authors: Companion Michel A. , Thiele Todd E.
Published: October 2018

Corticotropin‐releasing factor (CRF) circuitry is a key component in plasticity underlying the transition to ethanol (EtOH) dependence. We have previously shown that chemogenetic silencing of CRF neurons stemming from the dorsolateral bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (dlBNST) and projecting to the ventral tegmental area (VTA) significantly blunts binge‐like EtOH consumption. While CRF neurons in the BNST are thought to entail primarily a GABA phenotype, glutamatergic neurons within the BNST also innervate the VTA and influence consummatory behaviors. Here, we combined the well‐validated Vgat‐ires‐Cre transgenic mice with chemogenetic tools to extend our previous findings and corroborate the contribution of the VTA‐projecting dlBNST GABAergic circuitry in modulating binge‐like EtOH consumption using “drinking‐in‐the‐dark” procedures. Mice were given bilateral injection of Gi‐coupled chemogenetic viral vector (or control virus) into the dlBNST and bilateral cannulae into the VTA. On test day, clozapine‐N‐oxide (CNO; or vehicle) was infused directly into the VTA to silence VTA‐projecting dlBNST neurons and subsequent binge‐like EtOH consumption was assessed. We then used immunohistochemistry (IHC) to determine the co‐expression of CRF and viral vector. Our results showed that relative to vehicle treatment or CNO treatment in mice expressing the control virus, silencing VTA‐projecting dlBNST GABAergic neurons by CNO treatment in mice expressing Gi‐coupled chemogenetic virus significantly reduced binge‐like EtOH intake. This effect was not seen with sucrose consumption. Our IHC results confirm a population of CRF‐expressing GABAergic neurons within the dlBNST. This study directly establishes that VTA‐projecting GABAergic neurons of the dlBNST modulate binge‐like EtOH consumption.
The effects of agent hybridization on the efficacy of biological control of tansy ragwort at high elevations
Authors: Szűcs Marianna , Salerno Patricia E. , Teller Brittany J. , Schaffner Urs , Littlefield Jeffrey L. , Hufbauer Ruth A.
Published: October 2018

The success rate of weed biological control programs is difficult to evaluate and the factors affecting it remain poorly understood. One aspect which is still unclear is whether releases of multiple, genetically distinct populations of a biological control agent increase the likelihood of success, either by independent colonization of different environmental niches or by hybridization that may increase the agent's fitness and adaptive ability. Since hybridization is often invoked to explain the success of unintentionally introduced exotic species, hybridization among biocontrol agents may be similarly important in shaping the effectiveness of biological control programs. In this study, we first evaluated intraspecific hybridization among populations of a weed biological control agent, the ragwort flea beetle, Longitarsus jacobaeae. These insects were introduced as part of a classical biological control program from Italy and Switzerland. We genotyped 204 individuals from 15 field sites collected in northwest Montana, and an additional 52 individuals that served as references for Italian and Swiss populations. Bayesian analysis of population structure assigned seven populations as pure Swiss and one population as pure Italian, while intraspecific hybrid individuals were detected in seven populations at frequencies of 5%–69%. Subsequently, we conducted a 2‐year exclusion experiment using six sites with Swiss beetles and three with hybrid beetles to evaluate the impact of biological control. We found that biological control by Swiss beetles and by hybrid beetles is effective, increasing mortality of the target plant, Jacobaea vulgaris, by 42% and 45%, and reducing fecundity of surviving plants by 44% and 72%, respectively. Beetle densities were higher and mortality of larger plants was higher at sites with hybrids present. These results suggest that hybridization of ragwort flea beetles at high‐elevation sites may improve biological control of tansy ragwort and that intraspecific hybridization of agents could benefit biological control programs.
Painful Craniofacial/Cervical Surface Area and Continuous Headache After Military Concussion: A Morphometric Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Klaric John S. , Forbes Leila L. , Finkel Alan G.
Published: October 2018

Objective

In this retrospective study of active duty service members (ADSMs), possible relationships were examined between extent of headache pain depicted on head/neck diagrams and headache phenomenology.

Background

The signature injury of US military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan is mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). Blast injury, especially from improvised explosive devices, was the most common cause during the height of the wars; the most persistent symptom remains posttraumatic headache (PTH). Neurologic patients were asked to draw pain diagrams/maps, a method of pain assessment in several clinical settings.

Methods

Thirty‐four ADSMs attributing PTH to both blast and non‐blast sources underwent clinical evaluations; diagnoses and headache characteristics were obtained. They completed 58 drawings depicting craniofacial/cervical headache pain on non‐standardized templates. Drawings were of 29 continuous and 29 non‐continuous headaches (CHA and NCHA, respectively). Surface area was calculated using a grid and expressed as a percentage.

Results

The sample was male (100%), primarily white (83%), with an average age of 30.3 years. Evidence for statistical independence of observations is provided (intra‐class correlation = 0.004). Percent surface area was larger for CHA (median [mdn] = 35.2, interquartile range [IQR] = 9.0, 78.3) than NCHA (mdn = 9.1, IQR = 5.4, 34.1, P = .029). In those with blast injury, CHA percent surface areas (mdn = 45.9, IQR = 27.0, 100) were larger than NCHA (mdn = 11.6, IQR = 5.8, 28.9; P = .0012), a relationship not observed in patients with PTH from non‐blasts (CHA: mdn = 26.8, IQR = 8.5, 52.0; NCHA: mdn = 9.1, IQR = 5.0, 47.6, P = .050). This pattern is observed after pooling at the median (blast, P < .012; non‐blast: P = .264).

Conclusion

Painful craniofacial/cervical surface area, as shown on patient drawings, is related to PTH phenomenology (continuous versus non‐continuous headache). This relationship is stronger after blast injury.
Negative Online Patient Reviews in Headache Medicine
Authors: Evans Randolph W.
Published: October 2018

Patients commonly use online reviews in selecting a new physician. There have been no studies of online reviews of headache medicine physicians. To better understand headache medicine physicians’ attitudes and opinions about negative reviews, 2 negative patient reviews were posted to the Southern Headache Society online discussion group and comments were requested. Twenty‐two anonymous comments are provided. The strengths and inadequacies of online physician reviews in other specialties and the possible actions headache medicine physicians should take for negative reviews are discussed. A nationwide survey of online reviews of headache medicine specialists would be of interest.
Recent advances in orange oil extraction: an opportunity for the valorisation of orange peel waste a review
Authors: Gavahian Mohsen , Chu Yan‐Hwa , Mousavi Khaneghah Amin
Published: October 2018

Orange is a citrus plant that belongs to Rutaceae family and is widely produced and processed around the world for the production of several products, including orange juice, which is associated with the production of relatively high‐volume of orange peel. This by‐product is sometimes discarded as a waste in the environment. The valorisation of food waste is the point of interest and orange peel, as a food waste, can be used as a source of value added essential oil. Recently, several advanced extraction techniques, including ultrasound, microwave, enzymatic and supercritical fluid extraction, have been proposed to valorise this by‐product. Each of these methods has its advantages and disadvantages and there is no published review regarding this subject. This work aims to review the recent findings on the applicability, benefits and drawbacks of orange oil extraction methods for orange peel valorisation.
Efficacy and safety of tadalafil 5 mg once‐daily in Asian men with both lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction: A phase 3, randomized, double‐blind, parallel, placebo‐ and tamsulosin‐controlled study
Authors: Zhang Zhichao , Li Hanzhong , Zhang Xiaodong , Dai Yutian , Park Hyun Jun , Jiann Bang‐Ping , Li Peng , Lou Ying , Ye Zhangqun , Viktrup Lars
Published: October 2018

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tadalafil in Asian men with both lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction.

Methods

The present phase 3, randomized, double‐blind, parallel, placebo‐ and tamsulosin‐controlled study was carried out at 40 study centers in the Asia–Pacific region (mainland China, Taiwan and Korea; NCT01937871). Participants were randomized to receive a placebo (n = 361), tadalafil 5 mg (n = 362) or tamsulosin 0.2 mg (n = 185) in a 2:2:1 ratio for 12 weeks.

Results

A total of 909 Asian men were randomized into three groups. After 12 weeks of treatment, a statistically significant improvement in least squares mean change from baseline in total International Prostate Symptom Score was observed in the tadalafil versus the placebo group (−5.49 vs −4.08, respectively; P < 0.001). A statistically significant improvement in the change from baseline for the International Index of Erectile Function‐Erectile Function domain score, was observed in tadalafil compared with the placebo at 12 weeks (5.24 vs 1.88, respectively; P < 0.001). A significant improvement was observed in the change from baseline in the percentage of “Yes” responses to Sexual Encounter Profile questions 2 and 3 in the tadalafil versus placebo group at 12 weeks (23.87% vs 10.90%; P < 0.001 and 36.62% vs 15.96%; P < 0.001, respectively). Safety results were consistent with the known tadalafil safety profile.

Conclusions

Tadalafil is efficacious and well tolerated in the treatment of Asian men with both lower urinary tract symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia and erectile dysfunction.
Microstructure evolution and characteristic of Ti(C,N)‐based cermets prepared by in situ carbothermal reduction in TiO2
Authors: Zhang Guotao , Zheng Yong , Zhou Wei , Ke Zheng , Ding Weimin , Yu Lixin , Yan Yonglin
Published: October 2018

Ti(C,N)‐based cermets were prepared by in situ carbothermal reduction in TiO2 and subsequent liquid phase sintering under vacuum. The prepared cermets were examined using XRD, SEM, TEM, and EDX. During solid‐state sintering, fine TiC particles were formed through the carbothermal reduction in TiO2. A great number of (Ti,W,Mo)C complete solid solutions containing more W and Mo subsequently formed through the counter diffusion of the fine TiC and carbides. The majority of the coarse TiN particles in the raw powders remained undissolved. During liquid phase sintering, Ti‐based carbonitride complex solid solutions with less W or Mo precipitated on the coarse TiN particles and fine (Ti,W,Mo)C particles, resulting in black core/gray rim structures and white core/gray rim structures, respectively. Moreover, small amounts of Ti‐based carbonitride complex solid solutions precipitated directly from the liquid binder phase in some areas enriched in W and Mo during the cooling stage after sintering, resulting in coreless grains. Ultimately, after being sintered at 1400°C for 1 hour, the present cermets were characterized with white core/gray rim grains, black core/gray rim grains and a few gray grains. In addition, the interfaces between the black core/gray rim grains and binder phase were atomically smooth, exhibiting a orientation relationship with a perfect coherency state.
Living with support: Experiences of people with mild intellectual disability
Authors: Giesbers Sanne A. H. , Hendriks Lex , Jahoda Andrew , Hastings Richard P. , Embregts Petri J. C. M.
Published: October 2018

Background

To enhance social inclusion of people with intellectual disability, policy is aimed at increasing informal support networks. Nevertheless, staff continue to play a vital role in their support networks.

Method

Six individuals with mild intellectual disability, living in community‐based settings, were interviewed following a semi‐structured format. In‐depth accounts of participants’ support experiences were established using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Results

Three main themes were identified: relationships with staff placed within a personal history, relationships with staff within an organisational context, and staff support and interviewees’ place in the world.

Conclusions

Relationships with staff were often one of the closest and most significant social relationships participants had. As living in the community had not necessarily led to meaningful inclusion for participants, the findings point at the important role of staff in supporting and facilitating friendships and close relationships of people with intellectual disability.
Chronic periodontitis impairs polymorphonuclear leucocyte–endothelium cell interactions and oxidative stress in humans
Authors: Martinez‐Herrera Mayte , López‐Domènech Sandra , Silvestre Francisco Javier , Silvestre‐Rangil Javier , Bañuls Celia , Victor Victor M. , Rocha Milagros
Published: October 2018

Aim

To evaluate the relationship between oxidative stress parameters in polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs) and PMN–endothelial cell interactions in patients with chronic periodontitis (CP) according to different degrees of severity of the disease.

Materials and methods

For this cross‐sectional study, 182 subjects were divided into four groups according to degree of CP: without CP (n = 37), mild CP (n = 59), moderate CP (n = 51), and severe CP (n = 35). We determined anthropometric and biochemical variables, periodontal parameters, inflammatory markers, oxidative stress parameters (superoxide and mitochondrial membrane potential), and PMN–endothelium cell interactions (rolling flux, velocity, and adhesion).

Results

Systemic inflammatory markers—C‐reactive protein, leucocyte count, TNFα, and retinol‐binding protein 4—were altered in the group with CP. Total superoxide was augmented in patients with moderate and severe periodontitis, whereas mitochondrial membrane potential did not change. Furthermore, PMNs adhesion and rolling flux were increased in subjects with CP.

Conclusion

In a systemic proinflammatory environment, PMNs from patients with CP exhibit hyperactivity and produce higher amounts of superoxide. In parallel with this, an increase in PMNs rolling flux and cell adhesion to the endothelium suggests the presence of alterations of PMN–endothelium interactions in patients with CP that can lead to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications.
Amelioration of experimental metabolic syndrome induced in rats by orlistat and Corchorus olitorius leaf extract; role of adipo/cytokines
Authors: Gomaa Adel A , El-Sers Dalia A , Al-Zokeim Nahla I , Gomaa Mohamed A
Published: October 2018

Objectives

To determine the efficacy of Corchorus olitorius (C. olitorius) leaf extract in the prevention of metabolic syndrome induced in rats by high-fat diet (HFD) and compare it with that of orlistat.

Methods

Phytochemical analysis was performed. Effect of orlistat and C. olitorius extract on lipase activity and acute food intake were investigated. Body weight, biochemical parameters and histopathological examination were demonstrated.

Key findings

Corchorus olitorius extract inhibited the pancreatic lipase activity, but orlistat was more potent. Cumulative food intake has not changed by the tested agents. In obese rats, C. olitorius or orlistat significantly decreased weight gain and visceral white adipose tissue. They exhibited a significant reduction in serum glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, free fatty acids, IL-1β, tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), insulin and leptin levels of obese rat groups while high density lipoprotein cholesterol and adiponectin levels were significantly increased by them. Histopathological examination of the liver revealed that C. olitorius was more effective than orlistat in the alleviating of steatosis and adipocyte hypertrophy shown in obese control rats.

Conclusions

Corchorus olitorius is effective as orlistat in preventing obesity, hyperlipidaemia, steatosis and insulin resistance. These actions may be mediated by inhibiting of lipase activity, TNF-α, IL-1β and leptin resistance along with increasing of adiponectin.
Acrofolione A and B, acetophenone dimers from Acronychia pendunculata, induce an apoptotic effect on human NALM-6 pre-B cell leukaemia cells
Authors: Matsui Takuya , Ito Chihiro , Kato Ayumi , Wu Tian-Shung , Itoigawa Masataka
Published: October 2018

Objectives

We investigated the apoptotic activities of acrofolione A (1) and B (2) isolated from Acronychia pedunculata against a human pre-B cell leukaemia cell line (NALM-6) to explore the apoptosis-related signalling molecules targeted by 1 and 2.

Methods

The apoptosis effects of 1 and 2 in NALM-6 cells were investigated by TUNEL staining, annexin V, mitochondria membrane potential and caspase 3/7 activity. We carried out a protein array to explore the signalling molecules involved in apoptosis comprehensively.

Key findings

Acrofolione A (1) suppressed the growth of NALM-6, K562 and HPB-ALL cells (IC50 16.7 ± 1.9, 17.9 ± 0.3 and 10.1 ± 0.2 μm, respectively) more effectively than acrofolione B (2). Both compounds time-dependently increased the number of NALM-6 cells with abnormal nuclei, and increased the number of annexin V-positive cells and decreased the mitochondrial membrane potential of NALM-6 cells. Acrofolione A (1) markedly elevated caspase 3/7 activity and increased the number of TUNEL-positive cells. Cells treated with either compound showed enhanced expression of cleaved PARP and cleaved caspase 3 and 7, and reduced survivin protein levels.

Conclusions

Acrofolione A (1) and B (2) may be useful in the treatment of various types of leukaemia.
Subclinical myocardial dysfunction in coronary slow flow phenomenon: Identification by speckle tracking echocardiography
Authors: Xing Yumeng , Shi Jing , Yan Yan , Liu Yu , Chen Yongle , Kong Dehong , Shu Xianhong , Pan Cuizhen
Published: October 2018

Objective

This study aimed to determine whether STE could help detect subclinical myocardial dysfunction in patients with CSFP.

Methods

Sixty patients with CSFP confirmed by CAG and 51 controls with normal coronary flow were prospectively enrolled. Coronary angiographic data and conventional and speckle tracking echocardiographic parameters of the LV and RV were obtained for every subject.

Results

Compared with controls, CSFP patients presented with higher BMI and TG levels, but lower HDL‐C levels. Conventional echocardiographic parameters of biventricular systolic and diastolic function did not differ between the two groups (all P > 0.05). The GLS of the LV and RV was significantly impaired in CSFP patients compared with that in controls (−19.03% vs −21.42%, P < 0.001 and −19.72% vs −22.96%, P = 0.001, respectively). The myocardial impairment pattern of CSFP patients was homogenous in the RV and heterogeneous in the LV, where only endo‐ and mid‐myocardial layers were affected. LV‐GLS and RV‐GLS were found to be well correlated with mTFC and HDL‐C in CSFP groups (r = 0.463 vs r = 0.439; r = −0.569 vs r = −0.552, all P < 0.05). ROC curve analysis demonstrated that LV‐GLS‐endo had the highest AUC (0.867, P < 0.001) for predicting subclinical myocardial impairment in CSFP patients.

Conclusions

Subclinical myocardial systolic dysfunction occurs in both ventricles, and GLS could be an effective method to detect early‐stage myocardial impairment in patients with CSFP.
Variation in cranial morphology of bottlenose dolphins (genus Tursiops) off South Africa
Authors: Ngqulana Sibu G. , Pistorius Pierre , Galatius Anders , Plön Stephanie , Hofmeyr G. J. Greg
Published: October 2018

Taxonomy plays an important role in conservation biology. Despite the variety of methods used to differentiate units, some groups, such as Delphinidae within the Cetacea have proven difficult to untangle. This study aimed to shed light on morphological variation of the genus Tursiops in South African waters using geometric morphometrics and to distinguish morphological groups and variation in these groups. A total of 241 crania of Tursiops spp. were analyzed using a suite of 2‐dimensional landmarks defined on photographs of the specimens. Results revealed two distinct morphological groups, with the smaller cluster comprised mainly of specimens from the cold temperate region off the west coast and the larger cluster comprised of specimens mainly from the warm temperate and subtropical regions off the south and east coast, respectively. We suggest that these groups correspond to different species of Tursiops, but this result requires further support. These groups were treated as separate entities and sexual dimorphism and geographic variation were assessed within each group. While sexual dimorphism and geographic variation were not significant within Cluster D1 and V1, they were significant within Clusters D2 and V2. The few Cluster 1 specimens found in the warm temperate and subtropical regions, relative to the number of Cluster 2 specimens, could be an indication of an offshore distribution for this group in these regions. Alternatively, the smaller cluster may also be indicative of a potentially small population size.
The benefits of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) Diet and Health Research Industry Club (DRINC) to early career researchers working in food, nutrition and human health
Authors: Ferriday D. , Grundy M. M.‐L. , Mills C.
Published: October 2018

The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) Diet and Health Research Industry Club (DRINC) scheme has benefited both academic researchers and members of the food and drink industry. In particular, the Club has given early career researchers (ECRs), working in food, nutrition and human health, the opportunity to work in multidisciplinary projects within a community that has provided support and a training platform for essential transferable skills. After 14 years of success, the DRINC initiative will be coming to an end in 2021. What will come next? How can the next generation of ECRs pursue a career in this research topic without this fantastic opportunity?
PHYTOCHROME‐INTERACTING FACTOR 3 mediates light‐dependent induction of tocopherol biosynthesis during tomato fruit ripening
Authors: Gramegna Giovanna , Rosado Daniele , Sánchez Carranza Ana Paula , Cruz Aline Bertinatto , Simon‐Moya Miguel , Llorente Briardo , Rodríguez‐Concepcíon Manuel , Freschi Luciano , Rossi Magdalena
Published: October 2018

Tocopherols are important antioxidants exclusively produced in plastids that protect the photosynthetic apparatus from oxidative stress. These compounds with vitamin E activity are also essential dietary nutrients for humans. Although the tocopherol biosynthetic pathway has been elucidated, the mechanisms that regulate tocopherol production and accumulation remain elusive. Here, we investigated the regulatory mechanism underlying tocopherol biosynthesis during ripening in tomato fruits, which are an important source of vitamin E. Our results show that ripening under light conditions increases tocopherol fruit content in a phytochrome‐dependent manner by the transcriptional regulation of biosynthetic genes. Moreover, we show that light‐controlled expression of the GERANYLGERANYL DIPHOSPHATE REDUCTASE (SlGGDR) gene, responsible for the synthesis of the central tocopherol precursor phytyl diphosphate, is mediated by PHYTOCHROME‐INTERACTING FACTOR 3 (SlPIF3). In the absence of light, SlPIF3 physically interacts with the promoter of SlGGDR, down‐regulating its expression. By contrast, light activation of phytochromes prevents the interaction between SlPIF3 and the SlGGDR promoter, leading to transcriptional derepression and higher availability of the PDP precursor for tocopherol biosynthesis. The unraveled mechanism provides a new strategy to manipulate fruit metabolism towards improving tomato nutritional quality.
Oscillometric and intra‐arterial blood pressure in children post‐kidney transplantation: Is invasive blood pressure measurement always needed?
Authors: Marouane Abderrahim , Cornelissen Elisabeth A. M. , Nusmeier Anneliese , Bootsma‐Robroeks Charlotte M. H. H. T.
Published: October 2018

Objective

Blood pressure (BP) monitoring in children immediately after kidney transplantation is ideally performed with an arterial line. Accurate measurement of BP is necessary for optimal management. However, during the first days postoperative, the arterial line is removed and BP measurement is switched to a non‐invasive device. The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy and reliability of the automated oscillometric device compared to invasive arterial BP (IBP) monitoring in patients after renal transplantation in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).

Method

We analyzed all simultaneously measured BPs in children with a kidney transplant in the Amalia Children's Hospital Radboud University Medical Center between January 1, 2012, and January 1, 2016. BP measurements were performed according to the hospital protocol. Agreement between invasive and non‐invasive methods was assessed using Bland‐Altman plots.

Results

A total of 29 patients were included in this retrospective study. The majority of children were male (59%), and median age was 11 years (range 1‐17 years). Totally, 80 BP measurements were recorded during the first days post‐kidney transplantation. The correlation coefficients (R) of systolic, diastolic, and MAP of non‐invasive (NIBP) and IBP measurements were 0.84, 0.76, and 0.77, respectively (P < 0.01). Overall, the average MAP (7.5 ± 1.2 mm Hg; P < 0.05) NIBP values were lower compared to IBP. In hypertensive patients, MAP (10.4 ± 10.0 mm Hg; P < 0.05) BP values were significantly lower using the NIBP device. Clinically relevant difference of >10 mm Hg was found in 51% (41/80) of measurements and mainly observed in hypertensive measurements.

Conclusions

IBP measurement is considered the golden standard for monitoring BP in patients immediately after kidney transplantation. NIBP values showed a good agreement with invasive reading, but the variability of NIBP mainly in hypertensive patients is high as it is the number of clinically relevant differences to IBP. We conclude that IBP remains the golden standard to monitor BP in children directly postoperatively.
Policy Narratives and Policy Outcomes: An NPF Examination of Oregon's Ballot Measure 97
Authors: McMorris Claire , Zanocco Chad , Jones Michael
Published: October 2018

Oregon Ballot Measure 97 was a contentious measure on the Oregon 2016 ballot that sought to raise taxes on corporations with sales over 25 million dollars within the state of Oregon. Predictably, there was a considerable amount of lobbying targeting elites and expansive campaigns targeting the public intending to promote or block the measure. Theoretically, this research applies the Narrative Policy Framework to describe these communications in terms of the active narratives within the discourse, assess their effect on the general public and their effect on the Measure 97 election outcome. Methodologically, we leverage qualitative interviews to describe the active narratives; next we assess the potential effects of those same narratives operationalized within a survey experiment administered to an online pool of census‐balanced respondents. We explore our findings through narrative congruence, character affect, and vote switching, as well as in light of the recent election results, where Measure 97 failed to pass. Our models are able to connect narrative effects, public opinion, and policy outcomes via the ballot measure process. We argue that while narrative has discernable effects, it is imperative that future scholarship also consider other factors when examining the role of policy narratives and policy outcomes.
Brexit and Foreign Investment in the UK
Authors: Driffield Nigel , Karoglou Michail
Published: October 2018

We explore the likely effect of Brexit on inward foreign direct investment (FDI) through its possible effect on the benchmark variables that characterize the macroeconomy. For this we propose the use of a Markov regime switching structural vector auto-regression to distinguish between the volatile and stable states of the economy and account, among other effects, for the contemporaneous effects that the frequency of FDI innately generates. Our findings suggest that, if Brexit triggers a sterling depreciation in the current economic climate, this will fuel a prolonged negative effect on FDI. FDI flows may be positively affected (at most) by a sterling depreciation after Brexit only if this event drives the UK economy to a period of highly volatile growth, inflation, interest and exchange rates: a scenario that is rather unlikely. And, even then, the sterling depreciation benefits would last for only a short period of time.
Responses of soil microbial biomass, diversity and metabolic activity to biochar applications in managed poplar plantations on reclaimed coastal saline soil
Authors: Xu W. , Wang G. , Deng F. , Zou X. , Ruan H. , Chen H. Y. H.
Published: October 2018

With its relatively high stability, biochar has been suggested as a means to mitigate climate change through carbon fixation and improve the physicochemical properties of soils. However, our understanding of the effects of biochar on soil microbial diversity and their metabolic activity remain unclear. In order to elucidate how the application of biochar to plantation soils influences microbial biomass and functional diversity (using Biolog EcoPlatesTM), we conducted an experiment to investigate changes in soil microbial communities at four biochar levels (0, 40, 80 and 120 Mg/ha). We found that biochar application altered the metabolic patterns of microbial communities and accelerated the utilization of amino acids, carboxylic acids, polymers and other miscellaneous plant chemical compounds by microbes. Moreover, compared to the control, soil pH increased by 0.23, 0.24, 0.28 units and microbial biomass carbon to nitrogen ratio (MBC/MBN) by 9.20, 20.99 and 17.74, respectively. Meanwhile, soil moisture decreased from 25.7 to 23.8%, 23.7 and 24.4%, and MBN declined by 42.2, 46.2 and 53.8%. Regression analysis showed that soil pH was the primary factor correlated with reduced MBN. Community physiological profiles revealed that high concentrated biochar (120 Mg/ha) elevated microbial metabolic activity, while biochar application did not alter microbial functional diversity represented by the Shannon diversity index (H′) and evenness (E). Furthermore, the application of biochar would affect biogeochemical cycling of carbon and nitrogen through the elevated microbial activity and utilization in different categories of carbon sources (polymers, carboxylic acids etc.) with the reduced MBN.