bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does network position foster knowledge production? Evidence from international scientific collaboration network
Authors: Gui Qinchang , Liu Chengliang , Du Debin
Published: September 2018

There is consensus among scholars that social networks are important mechanisms of knowledge spillovers. By occupying a central and advantageous network position in the collaboration network, it is easy for actors to access intangible external resources. However, empirical studies of the impact of network structure on knowledge production remain scarce. Based on copublication data from the Web of Science database (WoS) from 2000 to 2015, we construct eleven international scientific collaboration networks and empirically estimate the impacts of multiple network properties, comprehensively measured by degree centrality, structure holes, and small‐world quotient, on national knowledge output. Empirical results based on fixed effect negative binomial models suggest positive effects of the three facets of network properties, that is, higher degree centrality, structural holes, and small‐world quotient are beneficial for facilitating and improving national knowledge production, which in turn encourages international academic collaboration.
Association of obstructive sleep apnoea with acute severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation: a population‐based study
Authors: Hirayama Atsushi , Goto Tadahiro , Faridi Mohammad K. , Camargo Carlos A. , Hasegawa Kohei
Published: September 2018

Little is known about the association of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) with the severity of acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). This retrospective cohort study investigated the association of coexistent OSA with acute severity markers (i.e. invasive positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) use and hospital length of stay (LOS)) among adults hospitalised for AECOPD. Patients with coexistent OSA had a significantly higher risk of IPPV use and prolonged hospital LOS compared to those without OSA.
Variation in the incidence and timing of diagnosis of hospital‐associated venous thromboembolism using linked administrative data
Authors: Stubbs Joanne M. , Assareh Hassan , Curnow Jennifer , Hitos Kerry , Achat Helen M.
Published: September 2018

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a potentially preventable adverse effect of hospitalisation. Inter‐hospital variation in the incidence of hospital‐associated VTE (HA‐VTE) and timing of diagnosis (in‐hospital or post‐discharge) in New South Wales public hospitals were examined. Large variations in incidence (22% risk difference) and post‐discharge diagnosis (115% odds difference) were evident after adjustment for case mix, which only explained 59% and 32% of inter‐hospital variation respectively. The need for improved compliance with best practice guidelines is reinforced.
Constructing a grounded theory of critical illness survivorship: The dualistic worlds of survivors and family members
Authors: Page Pamela , Simpson Alan , Reynolds Lisa
Published: September 2018

Aim of the study

To understand the critical illness trajectory from patient and relative perspectives.

Background

In the context of increasing survivorship from critical illness, it is important to enhance our understanding of the subjective experience of survivors and their families. The need to consider the legacy of critical care beyond physiological survival is imperative.

Methods

Using a constructivist grounded theory methodology, in‐depth interviews were undertaken with survivors of critical illness (n = 16) and family members (n = 15). Constant comparative analysis and data collection occurring concurrently with theoretical sampling commencing from the outset.EQUATORguidelines for qualitative research (COREQ) applied.

Findings

Survivors of critical illness invariably experienced vivid, hallucinatory experiences which placed them in a different world or liminal space. The core difficulty can be summarised as follows: Survivors have little recall of the factual events of their critical illness but relatives have lived the whole event in a very real and ingraining manner. This can result in family members and survivors experiencing different versions of the critical illness episode.

Conclusion

Survivors of critical illness, together with family members, experience challenges when endeavouring to readjust to life post critical care. This study has identified a middle range theory of dualistic worlds between and within the survivor and family member experiences. Exploring the dynamic interplay between intrapersonal, interpersonal and societal factors has provided theoretical insights with practice implications in relation to surviving critical illness.

Relevance to clinical practice

The findings from this study highlight the need for a rehabilitation infrastructure following critical illness to support the existingUKnational guidance, ensuring the individual and holistic needs of survivors and their families are met. Conversations with survivors and their families around critical illness survivorship are frequently absent and needed early in the recovery period.
Folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine in smoking‐exposed pregnant women: A systematic review
Authors: Tuenter Annelies , Bautista Nino Paula K. , Vitezova Anna , Pantavos Athanasios , Bramer Wichor M. , Franco Oscar H. , Felix Janine F.
Published: September 2018

Smoking exposure is associated with pregnancy complications, as are levels of folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine. In nonpregnant adults, smoking exposure is associated negatively with folate and vitamin B12 levels and positively with homocysteine levels. A complete overview of the literature on this topic in pregnant women is lacking. To evaluate evidence of associations of maternal smoking exposure during pregnancy and levels of folate, homocysteine, and vitamin B12 in pregnancy and in cord blood, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, and reference lists of relevant studies until August 2017. We selected studies in pregnant women describing the association of passive or active smoking and levels of folate, homocysteine, and/or vitamin B12. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers. We included 32 studies of 2,015 identified references with a total of 37,822 participants and more than 6,000 smokers. Twenty‐eight studies measured folate, 14 measured vitamin B12, and 13 measured homocysteine. Nineteen out of 28 studies assessing folate reported significantly lower levels in pregnant women exposed to smoking compared with those unexposed. Vitamin B12 levels were lower in smoking mothers in eight out of 14 studies. Homocysteine levels tended to be higher in mothers exposed to smoking. Smoking exposure during pregnancy is generally associated with lower folate and vitamin B12 levels and higher homocysteine levels. This may help raise further awareness about the consequences of smoking and the need to encourage stopping smoking in all, especially in pregnant women.
Cyberlindnera fabianii fungaemia outbreak in preterm neonates in Kuwait and literature review
Authors: Al‐Sweih Noura , Ahmad Suhail , Khan Seema , Joseph Leena , Asadzadeh Mohammad , Khan Ziauddin
Published: September 2018

Background

Cyberlindnera fabianii has rarely been reported as a human pathogen. Here, we describe an outbreak of C. fabianii fungaemia involving 10 preterm neonates during a seven‐month period in Kuwait and review the published reports.

Methods

Blood cultures were processed, and yeast isolates were initially identified by ID 32 C and/or VITEK 2. Molecular identification was done by PCR sequencing of internally transcribed spacer (ITS) region and D1/D2 domains of rDNA. Fingerprinting was performed with microsatellite‐based and minisatellite‐based primers to examine genetic relatedness among the isolates. Antifungal susceptibility testing of the isolates was done by Etest.

Findings

All infected neonates were preterm, received prior antibiotics and had an intravascular catheter in place. All bloodstream isolates were initially identified as Candida utilis by ID 32 C and/or VITEK 2 and showed reduced susceptibility to triazoles. PCR sequencing of rDNA identified all isolates as Cyberlindnera fabianii. Fingerprinting studies yielded identical patterns indicating clonality. One neonate died before treatment, one died during treatment, and eight neonates survived treatment with amphotericin B with/without fluconazole or caspofungin. Source of infection remained unknown despite surveillance cultures.

Conclusion

The outbreak highlights emergence of C. fabianii as a neonatal pathogen and reinforces importance of molecular methods in its accurate identification.
Nursing workload and compliance with non‐pharmacological measures to prevent ventilator‐associated pneumonia: a multicentre study
Authors: Jam Rosa , Mesquida Jaume , Hernández Óscar , Sandalinas Immaculada , Turégano Concepción , Carrillo Esther , Pedragosa Rosario , Valls Josefa , Parera Ana , Ateca Begoña , Salamero Maria , Jane Roser , Oliva Joan Carles , Delgado‐Hito Pilar
Published: September 2018

Background

Ventilator‐associated pneumonia is common and associated with high mortality. Nurses play a fundamental role in preventing ventilator‐associated pneumonia. Evidence‐based guidelines and training interventions about preventing ventilator‐associated pneumonia do not ensure compliance with recommendations.

Aims and objective

To evaluate the impact of nursing workload on compliance with non‐pharmacological measures to prevent ventilator‐associated pneumonia.

Design

A prospective observational study in two medical‐surgical adult ICUs in Spain.

Methods

We measured nurses' knowledge about preventing ventilator‐associated pneumonia through a questionnaire and workload, categorized with the Nine Equivalents of Nursing Manpower Use Score. We directly observed nurses to measure compliance with non‐pharmacological measures to prevent ventilator‐associated pneumonia.

Results

A total of 97 nurses were studied; 76 (79%) were observed. There were 327 observations (mean 4·30 observations per nurse). The questionnaire showed good baseline knowledge of preventive measures [mean score (92% ± 16%)].

Nurses complied with the preventive measures in 66% ± 15% of observations; compliance ranged from 11·9% for pre‐aspiration hand washing to 99·7% for using sterile aspiration probes. Mean Nine Equivalents of Nursing Manpower Use Score for each nurse observed was 50 ± 13, without differences between centres (49 ± 14 versus 51 ± 11, p = 0·4). Overall compliance was lower in the light workload group (p = 0·02), but no significant differences in compliance between workload groups were found when each measure was analysed separately. Compliance was higher in nurses aged 31–40 years than in those aged >51 years, although workload was similar in both groups.

Conclusions

Compliance with non‐pharmacological measures to prevent ventilator‐associated pneumonia varies widely; non‐compliance is not because of increased workload.

Relevance to clinical practice

Most critical care nurses have good baseline knowledge of non‐pharmacological measures to prevent ventilator‐associated pneumonia. Failure to comply with these measures is probably more related with behavioural, structural and organizational aspects than with nursing workload. Interventions to improve compliance might be more effective if they focus on factors such as work climate and professionals' attitudes.
A survey evaluating the awareness of MRONJ within the Birmingham GMP community
Authors: Rahman Z. , Nayani S. , Anstey H. , Murphy M.J.
Published: September 2018

Introduction

A number of patients are routinely prescribed antiresorptive drugs that can be associated with developing medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). When presenting to a dental setting, the majority are unaware of the small but relative risk of developing MRONJ. Prevention is currently the only evidence‐based method of reducing the incidence of MRONJ. Raising awareness of MRONJ could encourage GMPs to liaise with dental clinicians for premedication screening, preventative advice and specialist referrals.

Methods

An electronic survey consisting of 16 multiple‐choice questions, targeting GMPs and GMP trainees in Birmingham was conducted to evaluate their knowledge and awareness of MRONJ. A section for open comments was available. This was conducted between March and May 2016.

Results

71% of the 49 participants surveyed, were aware of bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) and 6% were aware of the change in terminology to MRONJ. 56% of participants were aware of associated medications and 11% always mentioned the risk when prescribing relevant medications. 67% would not consider seeking a dental opinion prior to commencing these medications. 75% were unaware of the clinical presentation of MRONJ and 92% were unaware of associated guidelines. Encouragingly, 78% of the participants were interested in receiving further information and training.

Conclusions

This survey highlights the limited knowledge and training that GMPs and trainees in the West Midlands have regarding MRONJ. By raising awareness of this condition through leaflets and teaching, we can educate our colleagues and also encourage a more holistic management approach to this patient cohort.
TaCOLD1 defines a new regulator of plant height in bread wheat
Authors: Dong Huixue , Yan Suli , Liu Jie , Liu Pan , Sun Jiaqiang
Published: September 2018

Plant height is among the most important agronomic traits that influence crop yield. However, in addition to the Rht‐1 alleles, the molecular basis of plant height in bread wheat remains largely unclear. Based on wheat gene expression profiling analysis, we identify a light‐regulated gene from bread wheat, designated as TaCOLD1, whose encoding protein is homologous to cold sensor COLD1 in rice. We show that TaCOLD1 protein is localized to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and plasma membrane. Phenotypic analyses show that overexpression of a mutated form of TaCOLD1 (M187K) in bread wheat cultivar Kenong199 (Rht‐B1b) background resulted in an obvious reduction in plant height. Further, we demonstrate that the hydrophilic loop of TaCOLD1 (residues 178–296) can interact with TaGα‐7A (the α subunit of heterotrimeric G protein) protein but not TaGα‐1B, and the mutation (M187K) in TaCOLD1 remarkably enhances its interaction with TaGα‐7A. Physical interaction analyses show that the C‐terminal region of TaGα‐7A, which is lacking in the TaGα‐1B protein, is necessary for its interaction with TaCOLD1. Intriguingly, the C‐terminal region of TaGα‐7A is also physically associated with the TaDEP1 protein (an atypical Gγ subunit). Significantly, we discover that TaCOLD1 and mTaCOLD1 (M187K) can interfere with the physical association between TaGα‐7A and TaDEP1. Together, this study reveals that TaCOLD1 acts as a novel regulator of plant height through interfering with the formation of heterotrimeric G protein complex in bread wheat and is a valuable target for the engineering of wheat plant architecture.
One for all and all for one: retention of colour‐unchanged old flowers increases pollinator attraction in a hermaphroditic plant
Authors: Teixido A. L. , Duarte M. O. , Ballego‐Campos I. , Sanín D. , Cunha J. S. , Oliveira C. S. , Silveira F. A. O.
Published: September 2018

Long‐lived flowers increase pollen transfer rates, but these entail high water and carbon maintenance costs. The retention of pollinated and reward‐free old flowers enhances pollinator visitation to young receptive flowers by increasing floral display size. This mechanism is associated with acropetal inflorescences or changes in flower colour and openness, but the retention of unchanging solitary flowers remains overlooked.

We examined pollination‐dependent variation in floral longevity and determined stigmatic receptivity, pollen viability and pollen removal rates among flower ages in Kielmeyera regalis, a Neotropical savanna shrub. We also evaluated the effects of floral display size on pollinator visitation rates. Lastly, we determined whether old flowers are unvisited and exclusively increase pollinator attraction to young flowers through flower removal experiments.

Regardless of pollination treatment, flowers lasted fully open with no detectable physical changes for 3 days. Over time, stigmas remained receptive but >95% of pollen was removed. Pollinator visitation significantly increased with floral display size and intermediate percentages (15–30%) of newly opened flowers. Accordingly, the retention of reward‐free and unvisited old flowers increased young flower–pollinator interaction.

Our results reveal the importance of a prolonged floral longevity in increasing pollinator attraction toward newly opened receptive flowers without changes in flower colour and form. We conclude that the retention of pollinated, reward‐free and unvisited colour‐unchanged old flowers in K. regalis is a strategy that counteracts the water use costs associated with the maintenance of large flowers with increased mate opportunities in a pollen‐limited scenario.
Foreign direct investment, input prices, and host country welfare
Authors: Kao Kuo‐Feng , Chen Chin‐Sheng
Published: September 2018

This paper analyzes a multinational firm’s foreign direct investment decision, through either greenfield investment or cross‐border merger and acquisition, into a host country with an input monopoly that adopts either uniform pricing or discriminatory pricing. The optimal foreign entry mode could differ under each pricing policy. Under Cournot competition, firms’ technological gap and the initial local market structure are critical to the choice of foreign entry mode, whereas product substitutability is important under Bertrand competition. In the presence of foreign entry, this paper also examines the welfare effects of input price discrimination for the host country.
Embedding as a Pitfall for Survey-Based Welfare Indicators: Evidence from an Experiment
Authors: Hetschko Clemens , Reumont Louisa , Schöb Ronnie
Published: September 2018

Welfare measurement using multiple indicators requires knowledge about how individuals weight different aspects of wellbeing. The better life index provides a way of resolving this individual level weighting issue. It invites people to weight 11 dimensions, embedding measurable indicators. Ideally, the specific embedding of the same indicators should not change their weights in a welfare function. Our experiment shows, however, that varying the embedding structure decisively affects people's weightings, i.e. we observe strong embedding effects. The better life index hence fails to measure citizens’ true preferences. Embedding thus opens a gateway to manipulating survey-based welfare measures.
The Poet with a Briefcase: The Russian Lawyer's Quest for the Professional Ideal
Authors: SCHUR ANNA
Published: September 2018

This article explores the discourse of professional self‐presentation of the new Russian trial lawyer in the decades following the Judicial Reform of 1864. Reluctant to be seen as a mere expert, the lawyer presented himself as an artist and citizen and modeled elements of his professional image after the paradigm of the Russian writer. The entwining of the civic and the artistic in the lawyer’s self‐fashioning was part of his program to defend the profession before an often hostile public opinion and to shore up his professional and cultural authority. In bringing out this aspect of the lawyer’s quest for professional identity we gain a fuller understanding of the fraught relationship between Russian law and letters in the post‐reform decades. While traditionally, the writers’ critique of lawyers has been viewed as an expression of moral disapproval of lawyering and of a more abstract antipathy to law, the article suggests that the lawyers’ continued efforts to portray themselves as Russian writers’ surrogates in the courtroom was also a cause for concern and a reason for criticism.
Honest Jacobins: High Stalinism and the Socialist Subjectivity of Mikhail Lifshitz and Andrei Platonov
Authors: KHAZANOV PAVEL
Published: September 2018

This article aims to develop a better understanding of Andrei Platonov’s mature view of Soviet socialism by considering his unfinished novel, Happy Moscow (1931–36), in the context of Mikhail Lifshits’ and Georg Lukács’ philosophical movement of the 1930s, known as the Current. In light of the Current’s conceptualization of Stalinism as a peculiar form of Thermidor that did not spell an unequivocal end to the Russian Revolution, I argue that Platonov’s Happy Moscow articulates an enduring commitment to Soviet socialism and its utopian possibilities. To do so, Happy Moscow deploys the notion of a tragic confrontation between humankind and nature as a cornerstone for elaborating a model of a radically socialist “difficult happiness,” a view onto which had been made possible for the author as a result of the transformations of the 1930s.
Perception of parents/caregivers on the oral health of children/adolescents with Down syndrome
Authors: Scalioni Flávia , Carrada Camila Faria , Abreu Lucas , Ribeiro Rosangela Almeida , Paiva Saul Martins
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Oral health affects the general health of people with Down syndrome (DS), with repercussions on their ability to chew and to communicate.

Objective

To evaluate the influence of sociodemographic characteristics and clinical indicators on the perceptions of parents/caregivers regarding the oral health of individuals with DS.

Methods

Parents/caregivers completed a questionnaire containing sociodemographic information and answered the 20 questions of the Brazilian version of the Oral Health Scale for People with DS. Intra‐oral clinical exam of children/adolescents was performed to assess dental caries, periodontal disease, and malocclusion. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses, and Poisson regression model analyses were carried out.

Results

In this study, 55.1% of the parents/caregivers showed a positive perception regarding the oral health of their children/adolescents. Parents/caregivers of individuals between 4 and 9 years old (Prevalence Ratio (PR) = 1.13; Confidence Interval (CI), 1.04 – 1.23; p = 0.003) and parents/caregivers of those with definite malocclusion (PR = 1.14; CI, 1.00 – 1.31; p = 0.047) had a higher prevalence of reporting a more negative perception of their children's/adolescents' oral health.

Conclusion

DS individuals' age and the severity of malocclusion were indicators of a more negative perception of parents/caregivers regarding their sons'/daughters' oral health.
A pilot study of immunotherapy in dogs with atopic dermatitis using a mannan‐Dermatophagoides farinae allergoid targeting dendritic cells
Authors: González José‐Luis , Zalve Vicente , Fernández‐Caldas Enrique , Cases Bárbara , Subiza José‐Luis , Casanovas Miguel
Published: September 2018

Background

Polymerized allergoids coupled to nonoxidized mannan (PM‐allergoids) are novel allergen preparations used for immunotherapy.

Objective

To evaluate PM‐allergoids as an alternative immunotherapy for dogs with canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) associated with serological responses to Dermatophagoides farinae allergens.

Animals

Sixteen dogs with history and clinical signs of cAD; positive on serum allergen specific IgE testing to D. farinae. Twelve dogs were, in addition, positive to Acarus siro and/or Lepidoglyphus destructor.

Methods and materials

A prospective pilot study with no control group. PM‐allergoids were administered by subcutaneous injection over a 10 month period. A pruritus Visual Analog Scale (pVAS) and medication scores were evaluated. Adverse reactions were recorded.

Results

The median value of the pVAS of the dogs decreased from 0.6 to 0.2 with a median of 67% improvement over the first three months (P < 0.0001). The individual improvement for each dog was greater than 60%. No major adverse effects were observed.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Allergen‐specific immunotherapy using an allergoid coupled to nonoxidized mannan may be an effective alternative for the management of cAD.
Rate of left ventricular pressure change by Doppler echocardiography in dogs with chronic mitral valve disease at different stages of congestive heart failure
Authors: Kim Yun‐Hye , Choi Gum‐Joo , Park Chul
Published: September 2018

Although the major pathological feature of chronic mitral valve disease is mitral regurgitation, myocardial dysfunction has been suggested to be present in dogs with chronic mitral valve disease. However, accurate assessment of myocardial function remains challenging. Doppler‐derived rate of left ventricular pressure change is a simple, less load‐dependent method for evaluating myocardial function. We aimed to evaluate Doppler‐derived rate of left ventricular pressure change for assessing myocardial function in different stages of dogs with chronic mitral valve disease. This analytical cross‐sectional study recruited 55 client‐owned dogs with chronic mitral valve disease prospectively. Based on physical examination, indirectly measured blood pressure, routine hematologic and biochemistry examinations, thoracic radiography, electrocardiography, and echocardiography, dogs were diagnosed as mitral valve disease and excluded for systemic diseases and other cardiac diseases. They were classified according to the International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council scales. Doppler‐derived rates of left ventricular pressure rise and fall (dP/dt and –dP/dt) were analyzed by two investigators using continuous‐wave Doppler imaging. Doppler‐derived dP/dt was higher in dogs of class IIIa than in those of the other classes, whereas values of –dP/dt decreased significantly with the severity of congestive heart failure. The peak velocity of the early diastolic wave and –dP/dt were identified as independent predictors of congestive heart failure. Our findings suggested that Doppler‐derived dP/dt and –dP/dt, used in combination with conventional echocardiographic variables, could allow a better understanding of myocardial dysfunction and a possibility for prediction of the risk of heart failure in dogs with chronic mitral valve disease.
Framework to elicit multidimensional requirements
Authors: Serna M. Edgar , Serna A. Alexei
Published: September 2018

Objective: Propose a framework to elicit multidimensional requirements. Materials and methods: A review of the literature is carried out, and the elicitation proposals are analyzed in which the multidimensionality of the requirements is taken into account. Results and discussion: 23 works were found, of which 15 were selected that met the quality conditions and inclusion criteria. These proposals are related to multidimensionality in elicitation but do not take it into account in order to construct a representative requirement specification. Conclusion: It is evident that there is no unanimity about the dimensions from which the requirements originate, and they have not been elicited. For this reason, and because its existence is accepted, it is necessary to unify criteria and propose frameworks to elicit multidimensional requirements.
Modeling and simulation of customer dissatisfaction, worker unpunctuality and tolerance to delay in make-to-order supply chains measured through customer lifetime value performance
Authors: Alvarado Valencia Jorge Andrés , Silva Daniel
Published: September 2018

Introduction: We developed a model for a make-to-order supply chain to evaluate the effects of worker unpunctuality, tolerance to delay and word-of-mouth according  to customer waiting time (dis)satisfaction in four customer lifetime value measures (CLTV): switching customers, the number of sales per customer, the average customer loyalty and the potential market reached.  Methods: We developed a hybrid (agent-based and discrete-event) simulation in a 33 * 4 experimental design. Results: All of the variables were significant in the four CLTV measures, except for tolerance to delay. The positive word-of-mouth effect was greater than the negative word-of-mouth effect. There were significant interactions between positive and negative word-of-mouth.  Conclusions:  This type of model becomes a decision support tool for businesses to evaluate their mid-to-long term performance taking into account their customers’ long-term behaviors and the relationships between potential customers in repetitive and competitive environments.
The second century CE Roman watermills of Barbegal: Unraveling the enigma of one of the oldest industrial complexes
Authors: Sürmelihindi Gül , Leveau Philippe , Spötl Christoph , Bernard Vincent , Passchier Cees W.
Published: September 2018

Carbonate deposits provide insights into the operation of the earliest industrial utilization of hydropower by an ancient society.
Middle-Late Triassic insect radiation revealed by diverse fossils and isotopic ages from China
Authors: Zheng Daran , Chang Su-Chin , Wang He , Fang Yan , Wang Jun , Feng Chongqing , Xie Guwei , Jarzembowski Edmund A. , Zhang Haichun , Wang Bo
Published: September 2018

Chinese fossils reveal a Triassic insect radiation.
Leg force interference in polypedal locomotion
Authors: Weihmann Tom
Published: September 2018

When leg number increases, COM oscillations decline more quickly with increasing deviations from alternating leg coordination.
Little lasting impact of the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum on shallow marine molluscan faunas
Authors: Ivany Linda C. , Pietsch Carlie , Handley John C. , Lockwood Rowan , Allmon Warren D. , Sessa Jocelyn A.
Published: September 2018

Brief but intense global warming 56 million years ago had few long-term effects on the ecology and evolution of marine mollusks.
Effect of Plasma Protein Binding on the Anti-Hepatitis B Virus Activity and Pharmacokinetic Properties of NVR 3-778
Authors: Helsen Nicky , Vervoort Tom , Vandenbossche Joris , Lenz Oliver , Monshouwer Mario , Pauwels Frederik , Snoeys Jan
Published: September 2018

High plasma protein binding (PPB) levels not only affect drug-target engagement but can also impact exposure of hepatocytes to antivirals and thereby affect antiviral activity. In this study, we assessed the effect of PPB on the antiviral activity of NVR 3-778, a sulfamoylbenzamide capsid assembly modulator (CAM).
The RNA Epitranscriptome of DNA Viruses
Authors: Tan Brandon , Gao Shou-Jiang
Published: September 2018

RNA modifications have generated much interest in the virology field, as recent works have shown that many viruses harbor these marks and modify cellular marks. The most abundant mRNA modification in eukaryotic cells,
N
6
-methyladenosine (m
6
A), has been examined extensively at the genome-wide scale in both cellular and viral contexts.
Comparison of Adjuvanted-Whole Inactivated Virus and Live-Attenuated Virus Vaccines against Challenge with Contemporary, Antigenically Distinct H3N2 Influenza A Viruses
Authors: Abente Eugenio J. , Rajao Daniela S. , Santos Jefferson , Kaplan Bryan S. , Nicholson Tracy L. , Brockmeier Susan L. , Gauger Phillip C. , Perez Daniel R. , Vincent Amy L.
Published: September 2018

Due to the rapid evolution of the influenza A virus, vaccines require continuous strain updates. Additionally, the platform used to deliver the vaccine can have an impact on the breadth of protection. Currently, there are various vaccine platforms available to prevent influenza A virus infection in swine, and we experimentally tested two: adjuvanted-whole inactivated virus and live-attenuated virus. When challenged with an antigenically distinct virus, adjuvanted-whole inactivated virus provided partial protection, while live-attenuated virus provided effective protection. Additional strategies are required to broaden the protective properties of inactivated virus vaccines, given the dynamic antigenic landscape of cocirculating strains in North America, whereas live-attenuated vaccines may require less frequent strain updates, based on demonstrated cross-protection. Enhancing vaccine efficacy to control influenza infections in swine will help reduce the impact they have on swine production and reduce the risk of swine-to-human transmission.
Distinct Pathway of Human T-Cell Leukemia Virus Type 1 Gag Punctum Biogenesis Provides New Insights into Enveloped Virus Assembly
Authors: Eichorst John P. , Chen Yan , Mueller Joachim D. , Mansky Louis M.
Published: September 2018

This report describes the results of experiments examining the pathway by which the human retroviral Gag protein is recruited to sites along the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane where Gag punctum biogenesis occurs. In particular, clever and sensitive experimental methods were devised to image in living cells fluorescently labeled Gag protein derivatives from human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) at the plasma membrane. The photoconvertible fluorescent protein mEos2 was strategically utilized, as the fluorescence emission of Gag at the plasma membrane could be differentiated from that of cytosolic Gag. This experimental strategy allowed for the determination of the Gag recruitment pathway into Gag puncta. For HTLV-1 Gag, puncta recruited Gag primarily from the plasma membrane, while HIV-1 Gag was recruited from the cytoplasm. These observations represent the first report of HTLV-1 particle biogenesis and its contrast to that of HIV-1. The observed differences in the Gag recruitment pathways used by HTLV-1 and HIV-1 Gag provide key information that is useful for informing the discovery of novel targets for antiretroviral therapies directed at eliminating virus infectivity and spread.
Branching Out: Alterations in Bacterial Physiology and Virulence Due to Branched-Chain Amino Acid Deprivation
Authors: Kaiser Julienne C. , Heinrichs David E.
Published: September 2018

The branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs [Ile, Leu, and Val]) represent important nutrients in bacterial physiology, with roles that range from supporting protein synthesis to signaling and fine-tuning the adaptation to amino acid starvation. In some pathogenic bacteria, the adaptation to amino acid starvation includes induction of virulence gene expression: thus, BCAAs support not only proliferation during infection, but also the evasion of host defenses.
Discovery of New Nitrite-Oxidizing Bacteria Increases Phylogenetic and Metabolic Diversity within This Niche
Authors: Capone Douglas G.
Published: September 2018

K. Kitzinger et al. (mBio 9:e01186-18, 2018,
https://doi.org/10.1128/mBio.01186-18
) report the first isolation of a novel nitrite-oxidizing bacterium, “
Candidatus
Nitrotoga,” and provide the first detailed information on the physiology, phylogeny, and characterization of the nitrite-oxidizing system of this genus.
Complete Genome Sequences of Four Major Viruses Infecting Marine Shrimp in Egypt
Authors: Megahed Mohamed E. , Cruz-Flores Roberto , Dhar Arun K.
Published: September 2018

The genome sequences of four economically important shrimp viruses,
Penaeus stylirostris densovirus 1,
hepatopancreatic parvovirus, yellow head virus, and gill-associated virus, are reported here. Genome data are fundamental for epidemiological studies in determining the origins of these viruses detected for the first time in Egypt and in developing disease management strategies.
Complete Genome Sequence of Herpes Simplex Virus 2 Strain 333
Authors: López-Muñoz Alberto Domingo , Rastrojo Alberto , Alcamí Antonio
Published: September 2018

Herpes simplex virus 2, or human herpesvirus 2, is a ubiquitous human pathogen that causes genital ulcerations and establishes latency in sacral root ganglia. We fully sequenced and manually curated the viral genome sequence of herpes simplex virus 2, strain 333 using Pacific Biosciences and Illumina sequencing technologies.
First Genome Sequence of Pasteurella multocida Type B Strain BAUTB2, a Major Pathogen Responsible for Mortality of Bovines in Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker M. Shahjahan Ali , Rahman M. Tanvir , Mahmud M. Muket , Tagliamonte Massimiliano S. , Chowdhury Shah M. Ziqrul Haq , Islam Mohammad Rahfiqul , Rahman M. Bahanur , El Zowalaty Mohamed E. , Nazir K. H. M. Nazmul Hussain
Published: September 2018

Here, we report the first genome sequence of
Pasteurella
multocida
BAUTB2 isolated from a buffalo that died from hemorrhagic septicemia in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Using Illumina HiSeq technology, the BAUTB2 genome length was determined to be 2,439,149 bp, with 40.8% GC content, 2,307 coding sequences (CDS), 6 rRNAs, 51 tRNAs, and 4 noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs).
Iontophoretic delivery of dexamethasone phosphate for non-infectious, non-necrotising anterior scleritis, dose-finding clinical trial
Authors: O’Neil Erin C , Huang Jiayan , Suhler Eric B , Dunn Jr James P , Perez Victor L , Gritz David C , McWilliams Kathy , Peskin Ellen , Ying Gui-shuang , Bunya Vatinee Y , Maguire Maureen G , Kempen John H
Published: September 2018

Currently available treatment options for non-infectious scleritis, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, systemic corticosteroids and immunosuppressive therapies, have both efficacy and side effect limitations. Iontophoretic delivery of corticosteroids has been demonstrated to be effective for anterior uveitis and represents a potential new approach to scleritis therapy. We hypothesised that iontophoretic delivery would provide effective and precise medication delivery to the sclera, while limiting systemic exposure and side effects. This first-in-human randomised, double-masked, dose-escalating study of iontophoretic administration of dexamethasone phosphate for scleritis suggests the treatment to be well tolerated and safe (within the limitations of the 18 patients sample size). There was a suggestion of efficacy in the lowest (1.2 mA/min at 0.4 mA) dose group (corresponding to the superficial location of scleritis compared with anterior uveitis), with 5/7 eyes meeting the primary efficacy outcome within 28 days. Our results suggest iontophoretic delivery of corticosteroids is a promising potential treatment for scleritis, with favourable safety and preliminary efficacy results in this phase 1 trial.

Trial registration number

NCT01059955.
What factors influence older people’s intention to enrol in nursing homes? A cross-sectional observational study in Shanghai, China
Authors: Luo Mengyun , Xue Yajiong , Zhang Shunxing , Dong Yuanyuan , Mo Dandan , Dong Wei , Qian Kun , Fang Yue , Liang Huigang , Zhang Zhiruo
Published: September 2018

Objectives

Given the increasing need of long-term care and the low occupancy rate of nursing homes in Shanghai, this study attempts to explore what factors influence older people’s intention to enrol in nursing homes.

Design

A cross-sectional observational study based on the theory of reasoned action was conducted. Survey data were collected from subjects during face-to-face interviews. Structural equation modelling was employed for data analysis.

Setting

This study was conducted in six community health service centres in Shanghai, China. Two service centres were selected in urban, suburban and rural areas, respectively.

Participants

A total of 641 Shanghai residents aged over 60 were surveyed.

Results

Structural equation modelling analysis showed that the research model fits the data well (χ2/df=2.948, Comparative Fit Index=0.972 and root mean squared error of approximation =0.055). Attitude (β=0.41, p<0.01), subjective norm (β=0.28, p<0.01) and value-added service (β=0.16, p<0.01) were directly associated with enrolment intention, explaining 32% of variance in intention. Attitude was significantly influenced by loneliness (β=−0.08, p<0.05), self-efficacy (β=0.32, p<0.01) and stigma (β=−0.24, p<0.01), while subjective norm was significantly influenced by life satisfaction (β=−0.15, p<0.01) and stigma (β=−0.43, p<0.01).

Conclusions

This study advances knowledge regarding the influencing factors of older people’s intention to enrol in nursing homes. It suggests that Chinese older persons’ perceived stigma has the strongest indirect effect on their intention to enrol in nursing homes. This is unique to the Chinese context and has practical implications for eldercare in China and other Asian countries with similar sociocultural contexts.
Dedicated service improves the accuracy of Barrett’s oesophagus surveillance: a prospective comparative cohort study
Authors: Britton James , Chatten Kelly , Riley Tom , Keld Richard R , Hamdy Shaheen , McLaughlin John , Ang Yeng
Published: September 2018

Objectives

Standards for Barrett’s oesophagus (BO) surveillance in the UK are outlined in the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) guidelines. This study aimed to assess the quality of current surveillance delivery compared with a dedicated service.

Design

All patients undergoing BO surveillance between January 2016 and July 2017 at a single National Health Service district general hospital were included. Patients had their endoscopy routed to a dedicated BO endoscopy list or a generic service list. Prospective data were analysed against the BSG guidelines and also compared with each patient’s prior surveillance endoscopy.

Results

361 patients were scheduled for surveillance of which 217 attended the dedicated list, 78 attended the non-dedicated list and 66 did not have their endoscopy. The dedicated list adhered more closely to the BSG guidelines when compared with the non-dedicated and prior endoscopy, respectively; Prague classification (100% vs 87.3% vs 82.5%, p<0.0001), hiatus hernia delineation (100% vs 64.8% vs 63.3%, p<0.0001), location and number of biopsies recorded (99.5% vs 5.6% vs 6.9%, p<0.0001), Seattle protocol adherence (72% vs 42% vs 50%, p<0.0001) and surveillance interval adherence (dedicated 100% vs prior endoscopy 75%, p<0.0001). Histology results from the dedicated and non-dedicated list cohorts revealed similar rates of intestinal metaplasia (79.8% vs 73.1%, p=0.12) and dysplasia/oesophageal adenocarcinoma (4.3% vs 2.6%, p=0.41).

Conclusions

The post-BSG guideline era of BO surveillance remains suboptimal in this UK hospital setting. A dedicated service appears to improve the accuracy and consistency of surveillance care, although the clinical significance of this remains to be determined.
Spillover effects of children’s political status on elderly parents’ health in China
Authors: Zhao Xin , Zhou Yi , Tan Huaqing , Lin Haoxiang
Published: September 2018

Background

Due to the sustained increases in life expectancy over the past half century, the elderly today will receive supports from their children for a longer period than ever before. Therefore, understanding the spillover effects of children’s socioeconomic status on parents’ health becomes increasingly important for both scholars and policy makers.

Methods

The Ordinary Least Squares regression is applied to the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study 2011, a national representative dataset including approximately 10 000 households and 17 600 middle-aged and elderly respondents. The Sobel test is used to examine the mediation role of social integration.

Results

The elderly who have a cadre child reported better health (coefficient=0.1347; 95% CI 0.067 to 0.202), had fewer activities of daily living (ADLs) limitations (coefficient=−0.1289; 95% CI −0.216 to −0.042) and were more socially integrated (coefficient=0.2321; 95% CI 0.103 to 0.361). Such effects are mainly driven by the parents of higher-ranking cadres. For the parents of higher ranking cadres, the Sobel test suggests that 12.6% of the total effects on self-reported health and 21.9% of the total effects on ADL limitations are mediated by the increase in parents’ social integration.

Conclusion

The findings suggest positive spillover effects of children’s political status on parents’ health. The benefits of having a cadre child are at least equivalent to the rural–urban gap in health and even stronger for the parents of higher ranking cadres. One potential explanation for such spillover effects is that a child’s political status can improve parents’ community involvement and social interactions.
Cytotoxic effects of heated tobacco products (HTP) on human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Leigh Noel J , Tran Phillip L , O’Connor Richard J , Goniewicz Maciej Lukasz
Published: September 2018

Background

Heated tobacco product(s) (HTP), also called heat-not-burn products, are a re-emerging class of tobacco products that purport to reduce health risk compared with smoking combustible tobacco products. This study examined the potential toxic effects of inhaling emissions from an HTP in comparison with electronic and combustible tobacco cigarettes.

Methods

Inhalation toxicity of HTP (IQOS; tobacco flavour), e-cigarette (MarkTen; tobacco flavour) and tobacco cigarette (Marlboro Red) was examined in vitro using an air–liquid interface with human bronchial epithelial cells (H292). Cells were exposed directly to 55 puffs from the e-cigarette, 12 puffs from the HTP and 8 puffs from the tobacco cigarette to equilibrate nicotine delivery to the cells across products. Cytotoxicity was measured using neutral red uptake and trypan blue assays. Cytotoxic effects of each tested product (HTP, e-cigarette and tobacco cigarette) were compared with an air control. Release of inflammatory markers (cytokines) was measured using ELISA.

Results

The HTP showed higher cytotoxicity compared with the air controls using the neutral red assay. The HTP also showed higher cytotoxicity than the e-cigarette, but lower cytotoxicity than the combustible cigarettes using the same assay. A significant increase in cytokines levels, compared with air controls, was observed postexposure to tobacco smoke but not to emissions from HTP or e-cigarette aerosol.

Discussion

Using limited cytotoxic measures, the HTP showed reduced cytotoxicity relative to a combustible cigarette but higher toxicity than an e-cigarette. More comprehensive testing is needed to determine long-term effects of inhaling emissions from HTP.
Youth access to JUUL online: eBay sales of JUUL prior to and following FDA action
Authors: Laestadius Linnea , Wang Yang
Published: September 2018

Background

The novel e-cigarette product JUUL has experienced rapid market growth. The online auction site eBay has been mentioned as a source of JUUL access for youth, and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notified eBay to remove JUUL listings in April 2018. We sought to characterise the sale of JUUL products on eBay prior to the FDA’s request, document the impact of this request and explore ways in which eBay vendors bypassed this effort.

Methods

eBay was searched for JUUL-branded products sold by US vendors in March 2018, yielding a sample of 197 listings for devices and/or pods. Each listing was coded for product, listing and youth access content. Following FDA action, each listing was revisited to determine its status, and each vendor’s page was searched for JUUL and other vaping content. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Of 197 eBay listings, 189 were for JUUL kits and 13 were for pods. Prices were on average higher than those on the official JUUL store, and language about age restrictions was rare. Following FDA contact, most listings were no longer active. However, 3.4% of these vendors still sold JUUL devices or pods and 15.5% were selling other vaporisers or nicotine products.

Conclusions

Online platforms may lack the will or expertise to effectively monitor content for tobacco products, while vendors quickly adapt to minor changes with simple strategies such as spelling variations. Accurate identification of online e-cigarette vendors is essential to the enforcement of policy and may benefit from cross-sector partnerships.