bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of 15‐lipoxygenase‐1 in Merkel cell carcinoma is linked to advanced disease
Authors: Fochtmann‐Frana Alexandra , Haymerle Georg , Schachner Helga , Pammer Johannes , Loewe Robert , Kerjaschki Dontscho , Perisanidis Christos , Erovic Boban M.
Published: July 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the expression of 15‐lipoxygenase‐1 (ALOX15) in primary tumour specimens predicts lymph node metastasis and subsequently clinical outcome in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) patients.

Methods

A retrospective medical chart review of 33 patients was performed between 1994 and 2014. Eleven out of 33 (33%) Patients with primary MCC stages I and II were categorised as group I. Twenty two out of 33 (67%) Patients with regional lymph node metastases and/or distant metastases were defined as group II. All available tumour samples were immunostained for ALOX15, Podoplanin and MCPyV large T‐protein antibody.

Results

ALOX15 expression was observed in 19/23 (83%) primary tumour samples and in all lymph node metastasis. Primary tumours in patients with stage III and IV disease showed a higher expression rate of ALOX15 compared to patients with early stage disease (11/12 (92%) and 8/11 (73%), respectively). In group I, five patients (45%) were MCPyV positive, whereas in group II, 15 patients (68%) were MCPyV positive. The median lymphatic vessel density in ALOX15 negative group I primary tumour samples was lower compared to the median lymphatic vessel density in ALOX15 positive group I primary tumour probes (2.7 range, 1‐4.3 vs 4.7 range, 4.0‐7.3). Furthermore, all 17 samples of MCC metastases showed ALOX15 expression with a median lymphatic vessel density (not lymph node metastases) of 5.3 (range 2.0‐7.3).

Conclusion

In the current study, we were able to show ALOX15 expression in the primary MCC sample and the metastasis sample. Based on the findings of the current study, expression rate of ALOX15 in primary MCC and metastases is possibly linked to an increased lymphatic vessel density.
Impact of protected areas on poverty, extreme poverty, and inequality in Nepal
Authors: den Braber Bowy , Evans Karl L. , Oldekop Johan A.
Published: July 2018

Protected areas (PAs) are key for biodiversity conservation, but there are concerns that they can exacerbate poverty or unequal access to potential benefits, such as those arising from tourism. We assess how Nepalese PAs influence poverty, extreme poverty, and inequality using a multidimensional poverty index, and a quasi‐experimental design that controls for potential confounding factors in non‐random treatment allocation. We specifically investigate the role of tourism in contributing to PA impacts. Nepali PAs reduced overall poverty and extreme poverty, and crucially, did not exacerbate inequality. Benefits occurred in lowland and highland regions, and were often greater when a larger proportion of the area was protected. Spread of benefits to nearby areas outside PAs was negligible. Furthermore, older PAs performed better than more recently established ones, suggesting the existence of time lags. Although tourism was a key driver of poverty alleviation, PAs also reduced extreme poverty in areas with fewer tourists.
Genetic and demographic analysis of European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) and Species Survival Plan (SSP) Western lowland gorilla Gorilla gorilla gorilla populations
Authors: Moreno Rivas M. , Rodríguez Teijeiro J. D. , Abelló Mª T.
Published: July 2018

Since the late 1990s, European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA)‐member zoos have worked collaboratively to achieve a self‐sustaining population for gorilla through the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP). The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) in the United States has similarly worked through the Species Survival Plan (SSP). These populations are all registered in the International Studbook for the Western Lowland Gorilla Gorilla g. gorilla Savage & Wyman, 1847, which is updated annually. Demographic and genetic analyses of these data are carried out to monitor population development. This paper presents the results of the genetic and demographic analysis of EAZA and AZA populations of the Western lowland gorilla Gorilla gorilla gorilla, considering the individuals registered since the beginning of the studbook (1950) until 2014, and the analyses are mainly focused on the results for both populations around the last decade. The data have been gathered from the 2014 international studbook and data registered in the Single Population Analysis and Records Keeping System (Sparks). Genetic and demographic analyses were carried out using PMx software. The results of the demographic analyses show that the EEP population is growing, demonstrating positive life parameters; for example, a finite growth rate of λ = 1·007, an instantaneous growth rate of r = 0·007 and a net reproductive rate of R0 = 1·160. However, the results of the demographic analyses for the SSP population show a general tendency for population reduction; that is, a finite growth rate of λ = 0·992, an instantaneous rate of growth rate r = −0·008 and a net reproductive rate of R0 = 0·864. When comparing the results from both populations it would appear that the application of strict breeding policies in the SSP for a few years had a noticeable impact on the SSP demographic results.
Circulating monocytes accelerate acute liver failure by IL‐6 secretion in monkey
Authors: Guo Gang , Zhu Yongjie , Wu Zhenru , Ji Hongjie , Lu Xufeng , Zhou Yongjie , Li Yuanmin , Cao Xiaoyue , Lu Yanrong , Talbot Prue , Liao Jiayu , Shi Yujun , Bu Hong
Published: July 2018

Acute liver failure (ALF) is associated with high mortality, and a poor understanding of the underlying pathophysiology has resulted in a lack of effective treatments so far. Here, using an amatoxin‐induced rhesus monkey model of ALF, we panoramically revealed the cellular and molecular events that lead to the development of ALF. The challenged monkeys with toxins underwent a typical course of ALF including severe hepatic injury, systemic inflammation and eventual death. Adaptive immune was not noticeably disturbed throughout the progress of ALF. A systematic examination of serum factors and cytokines revealed that IL‐6 increase was the most rapid and drastic. Interestingly, we found that IL‐6 was mainly produced by circulating monocytes. Furthermore, ablation of monocyte‐derived IL‐6 in mice decreased liver injury and systemic inflammation following chemical injection. Our findings reveal a critical role of circulating monocytes in initiating and accelerating ALF, indicating a potential therapeutic target in clinical treatment for ALF.
Theabrownin triggers DNA damage to suppress human osteosarcoma U2OS cells by activating p53 signalling pathway
Authors: Jin Wangdong , Zhou Li , Yan Bo , Yan Li , Liu Fucun , Tong Peijian , Yu Wenhua , Dong Xiaoqiao , Xie Li , Zhang Jin , Xu Yiqiao , Li Chunqi , Yuan Qiang , Shan Letian , Efferth Thomas
Published: July 2018

Osteosarcoma becomes the second leading cause of cancer death in the younger population. Current outcomes of chemotherapy on osteosarcoma were unsatisfactory to date, demanding development of effective therapies. Tea is a commonly used beverage beneficial to human health. As a major component of tea, theabrownin has been reported to possess anti‐cancer activity. To evaluate its anti‐osteosarcoma effect, we established a xenograft model of zebrafish and employed U2OS cells for in vivo and in vitro assays. The animal data showed that TB significantly inhibited the tumour growth with stronger effect than that of chemotherapy. The cellular data confirmed that TB‐triggered DNA damage and induced apoptosis of U2OS cells by regulation of Mki67, PARP, caspase 3 and H2AX, and Western blot assay showed an activation of p53 signalling pathway. When P53 was knocked down by siRNA, the subsequent downstream signalling was blocked, indicating a p53‐dependent mechanism of TB on U2OS cells (p53 wt). Using osteosarcoma cell lines with p53 mutations (HOS, SAOS‐2 and MG63), we found that TB exerted stronger inhibitory effect on U2OS cells than that on p53‐mut cell lines, but it also exerted obvious effect on SAOS‐2 cells (p53 null), suggesting an activation of p53‐independent pathway in the p53‐null cells. Interestingly, theabrownin was found to have no toxicity on normal tissue in vivo and could even increase the viability of p53‐wt normal cells. In sum, theabrownin could trigger DNA damage and induce apoptosis on U2OS cells via a p53‐dependent mechanism, being a promising candidate for osteosarcoma therapy.
Gypenosides improve diabetic cardiomyopathy by inhibiting ROS‐mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation
Authors: Zhang Hailong , Chen Xi , Zong Beibei , Yuan Hongmin , Wang Zhizeng , Wei Yinxiang , Wang Xuance , Liu Guangchao , Zhang Jun , Li Shulian , Cheng Guanchang , Wang Yaohui , Ma Yuanfang
Published: July 2018

NLRP3 inflammasome activation plays an important role in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), which may relate to excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Gypenosides (Gps), the major ingredients of Gynostemma pentaphylla (Thunb.) Makino, have exerted the properties of anti‐hyperglycaemia and anti‐inflammation, but whether Gps improve myocardial damage and the mechanism remains unclear. Here, we found that high glucose (HG) induced myocardial damage by activating the NLRP3 inflammasome and then promoting IL‐1β and IL‐18 secretion in H9C2 cells and NRVMs. Meanwhile, HG elevated the production of ROS, which was vital to NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Moreover, the ROS activated the NLRP3 inflammasome mainly by cytochrome c influx into the cytoplasm and binding to NLRP3. Inhibition of ROS and cytochrome c dramatically down‐regulated NLRP3 inflammasome activation and improved the cardiomyocyte damage induced by HG, which was also detected in cells treated by Gps. Furthermore, Gps also reduced the levels of the C‐reactive proteins (CRPs), IL‐1β and IL‐18, inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation and consequently improved myocardial damage in vivo. These findings provide a mechanism that ROS induced by HG activates the NLRP3 inflammasome by cytochrome c binding to NLRP3 and that Gps may be potential and effective drugs for DCM via the inhibition of ROS‐mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation.
Incidence of Medication‐Related Harm in Older Adults After Hospital Discharge: A Systematic Review
Authors: Parekh Nikesh , Ali Khalid , Page Amy , Roper Tom , Rajkumar Chakravarthi
Published: July 2018

Objectives

To determine the incidence, severity, and preventability of and risk factors for medication‐related harm (MRH) in community‐dwelling older adults after hospital discharge.

Design

Systematic review.

Setting

A search of Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library was undertaken without time restrictions.

Participants

Older adults (average age ≥65) participating in observational studies investigating postdischarge adverse drug reactions (ADRs) or adverse drug events (ADEs) within a defined follow‐up period.

Measurements

One author screened abstracts of all articles to exclude obviously irrelevant articles. Two authors independently screened the remaining articles for inclusion. Two authors independently extracted data, including study characteristics, MRH incidence, and risk factors; a third reviewer critically appraised and verified the data. Disagreements were resolved through discussion.

Results

From 584 potentially relevant articles, 8 studies met our inclusion criteria: 5 North American and 3 European. Most of the included studies were of moderate quality. There was a wide range in MRH incidence, from 0.4% to 51.2% of participants, and 35% to 59% of MRH was preventable. MRH incidence within 30 days after discharge ranged from 167 to 500 events per 1,000 individuals discharged (17–51% of individuals). There is substantial methodological heterogeneity across multiple domains of the studies, including ADR and ADE definitions, characteristics of recruited populations, follow‐up duration after discharge, and data collection.

Conclusion

MRH is common after hospital discharge in older adults, but methodological inconsistencies between studies and a paucity of data on risk factors limits clear understanding of the epidemiology. There is a need for international consensus on conducting and reporting MRH studies. Data from large, multicenter studies examining a range of biopsychosocial risk factors could provide insight into this important area of safety.
Establishment of a sensory lexicon for dried long pasta
Authors: Irie Kentaro , Maeda Tatsuro , Kazami Yukari , Yoshida Mitsuru , Hayakawa Fumiyo
Published: July 2018

Pasta is a common and popular food all over the world. However, neither a detailed sensory profile nor sensory lexicon of pasta quality has been reported. In this study, a lexicon for describing the sensory attributes of cooked, dried long pasta was developed using a large sample set of pasta. One hundred twelve pasta samples were prepared and then classified into four groups according to similarities in their sensory characteristics. Among them, 50 samples were selected as representative samples. A highly experienced and trained panel generated expressions following a sensory evaluation of the 50 pasta samples. The final lexicon consisted of 35 terms (5 for appearance, 11 for aroma/flavor, and 19 for texture). Definitions and references were determined for each term. Each descriptor was ranked according to its frequency of use by the sensory evaluation and discussion. Eight samples that were selected from each group as representative samples made in Italy were evaluated using the lexicon in a trial evaluation. The results show that the descriptors were appropriate for differentiating the sensory qualities among the samples.

Practical applications

A lack of clarity of words and insufficiency of common terms in the sensory evaluation of cooked pasta result in communication gaps. Precise and objective evaluations based on the lexicon described herein will enable clear descriptions of subtle differences in the qualities of various long pastas. Improving the evaluation system will lead to enhanced quality control of existing products and the development of new, high‐quality products. This will also be beneficial for buyers and consumers when choosing products. As the definitions and references for the terms are provided in the lexicon, it will facilitate a common understanding of the evaluation descriptors between sections within companies, between companies, and between countries.
The symmetry of competitive interactions in mixed Norway spruce, silver fir and European beech forests
Authors: Mina Marco , del Río Miren , Huber Markus O. , Thürig Esther , Rohner Brigitte
Published: July 2018

Questions

We aim for a better understanding of the different modes of intra‐ and inter‐specific competition in two‐ and three‐species mixed‐forests. How can the effect of different modes of competitive interactions be detected and integrated into individual tree growth models? Are species interactions in spruce–fir–beech forests more associated with size‐symmetric or size‐asymmetric competition? Do competitive interactions between two of these species change from two‐ to three‐species mixtures?

Location

Temperate mixed‐species forests in Central Europe (Switzerland).

Methods

We used data from the Swiss National Forest Inventory to fit basal area increment models at the individual tree level, including the effect of ecological site conditions and indices of size‐symmetric and size‐asymmetric competition. Interaction terms between species‐specific competition indices were used to disentangle significant differences in species interactions from two‐ to three‐species mixtures.

Results

The growth of spruce and fir was positively affected by increasing proportions of the other species in spruce–fir mixtures, but negative effects were detected with increasing presence of beech. We found that competitive interactions for spruce and fir were more related to size‐symmetric competition, indicating that species interactions might be more associated with competition for below‐ground resources. Under constant amounts of stand basal area, the growth of beech clearly benefited from the increasing admixture of spruce and fir. For this species, patterns of size‐symmetric and size‐asymmetric competitive interactions were similar, indicating that beech is a strong self‐competitor for both above‐ground and below‐ground resources. Only for silver fir and beech, we found significant changes in species interactions from two‐ to three‐species mixtures, but these were not as prominent as the effects due to differences between intra‐ and inter‐specific competition.

Conclusions

Species interactions in spruce–fir–beech, or other mixed forests, can be characterized depending on the mode of competition, allowing interpretations of whether they occur mainly above or below ground level. Our outcomes illustrate that species‐specific competition indices can be integrated in individual tree growth functions to express the different modes of competition between species, and highlight the importance of considering the symmetry of competition alongside competitive interactions in models aimed at depicting growth in mixed‐species forests.
Centaurea zlatiborensis (Asteraceae, Cardueae−Centaureinae), a new endemic species from Zlatibor mountain range, Serbia
Authors: Novaković Jelica , Zlatković Bojan , Lazarević Maja , Garcia‐Jacas Núria , Susanna Alfonso , Marin Petar D. , Lakušić Dmitar , Janaćković Pedja
Published: July 2018

A new species of Centaurea sect. Acrocentron (Cass.) DC. (Asteraceae) found growing in dry, steppe‐like habitats on the Zlatibor mountain in western Serbia is described as Centaurea zlatiborensis. This novelity is compared with all other species of C. sect. Acrocentron known from Serbia and a diagnistic key to these is provided. Centaurea zlatiborensis is morphologically close to C. calocephala Willd. but the stems are simple or sparsely branched with monocephalous branches and itis generally smaller in all plant parts. The most important difference is the appendage morphology where C. zlatiborenis has triangular, dark brown appendages with short fimbriae and appendages not completely covering the bracts.
Gentianella tumailica (Gentianaceae) – A new species from cold deserts of northwest Himalaya, India
Authors: Shabir Mohd , Agnihotri Priyanka , Tiwari Jay Krishan , Husain Tariq
Published: July 2018

A new species of Gentianella, G. tumailica sp. nov., from Tumail in the Kargil district of Ladakh, northwest Himalaya, India is described and illustrated. This novelity is morphologically similar to the sympatric G. stoliczka in inflorescence pattern, calyx and corolla shapes, sagitate anthers, more or less rounded seeds, but differs in smaller size of vegetative and floral structures, larger basal leaves, few cauline leaves, leaf apex obtuse to rounded, calyx lobes unequal (2 longer, 3 shorter), inflorescence enveloped by 4 foliaceous bracts, capsule elliptic to oblong and seed coat smooth. In addition, a diagnostic key to all Indian species of Gentianella is presented.
Corticotrophin‐releasing factor‐mediated effects of DA‐9701 in Postoperative Ileus Guinea Pig Model
Authors: Jo S. Y. , Hussain Z. , Lee Y. J. , Park H.
Published: July 2018

Background

Postoperative ileus (POI) is abdominal surgery‐induced impaired gastrointestinal (GI) motility. We aimed to investigate the effects of DA‐9701, a prokinetic agent formulated from Pharbitis Semen and Corydalis tuber, likely mediated via corticotrophin‐releasing factor (CRF) pathways, in a POI model.

Methods

A laparotomy with cecal manipulation was performed to induce POI in guinea pigs. GI transit was measured based on charcoal migration after intragastric administration of DA‐9701 1, 3, and 10 mg kg−1. CRF1 receptor antagonist, CP‐154 526 (subcutaneous) or agonist, human/rat (h/r) CRF (intraperitoneal) was injected. Then, plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels were measured, and the average intensity of the CRF expression was analyzed in the proximal colon and hypothalamus, and c‐Fos in the hypothalamus.

Key Results

DA‐9701 significantly increased delayed GI transit in POI in a dose‐dependent manner and decreased plasma ACTH levels at 10 mg kg−1. CP‐154 526 significantly decreased plasma ACTH levels but was not as effective on GI transit as DA‐9701 was. h/r CRF did not significantly affect GI transit and plasma ACTH levels. No significant difference was observed in GI transit and plasma ACTH levels in both groups administered DA‐9701 with h/r CRF and h/r CRF alone. CRF expression in the proximal colon decreased after DA‐9701 administration, but not significantly, compared with levels in POI alone. However, CRF expression in the hypothalamus was significantly lower in the DA‐9701‐pretreated POI than in the untreated POI.

Conclusions and Inferences

The DA‐9701‐induced improvement in GI transit and inhibition of plasma ACTH levels was mediated by the central CRF pathway.
Constituency Size and Responsiveness to Sectoral Interests: The Case of Japan and the Trans‐Pacific Partnership
Authors: Hearn Eddie
Published: July 2018

To build a political economy of trade, it is important to understand not only the demand for protection but also the supply of trade policy. The policy preferences of the public and special interest groups are filtered through political institutions creating winners and losers in trade policy formation. This article examines the impact of constituency size on the supply of trade protection. Although a number of political economy models make assumptions about the effect of constituency size on policy makers, recent studies testing the microfoundations of the theory have failed to find support for the claim that smaller constituencies produce higher levels of trade protection. It is argued that the main effect of constituency size is creating responsiveness to regional interests. It is found that electoral pressure from import‐competing sectors drives policy makers from small constituencies' preferences toward the Trans‐Pacific Partnership in Japan. Furthermore, legislators from small constituencies are more responsive to regional sectoral interests than legislators from large constituencies. These finding lend support for the constituency size hypothesis.

Related Articles

De Lombaerde, Philippe. 2015. “.” Politics & Policy 43 (): 855‐886. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/polp.12140/abstract

Anderson, Bret,
Brian S. Krueger, and
Ping Xu. 2016. “” Politics & Policy 44 (): 677‐711. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/polp.12167/abstract

Muir, Edward. 1998. “.” Politics & Policy 26 (): 571‐591. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2008.00165.x/abstract

Related Media

Detailed Results of 2009 Japanese General Election by District (in Japanese). http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/election/shugiin2009/

Information about the Japan Agriculture Co‐op. https://www.zenchu-ja.or.jp/eng

Videos Related to Japan and TPP:

A series of videos showing the production process at a small rice farm in Japan. It demonstrates both the labor intensity and relative limited scale of many farms in Japan. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjowwYOVJgQ

A recording of the “Special Committee on Trans‐Pacific Partnership Agreement” held on November 4, 2016. The meeting is quite contentious demonstrating the political division over the TPP in the Diet (in Japanese). http://www.shugiintv.go.jp/en/index.php?ex=VL&u_day=20161104
In a PICL: The sedimentary deposits and facies of perennially ice‐covered lakes
Authors: Rivera‐Hernandez Frances , Sumner Dawn Y. , Mackey Tyler J. , Hawes Ian , Andersen Dale T.
Published: July 2018

Perennially ice‐covered lakes can have significantly different facies than open‐water lakes because sediment is transported onto the ice, where it accumulates, and sand grains preferentially melt through to be deposited on the lake floor. To characterize the facies in these lakes, sedimentary deposits from five Antarctic perennially ice‐covered lakes were described using lake‐bottom observations, underwater video and images, and sediment cores. One lake was dominated by laminated microbial mats and mud (derived from an abutting glacier), with disseminated sand and rare gravel. The other four lakes were dominated by laminated microbial mats and moderately well to moderately sorted medium to very coarse sand with sparse granules and pebbles; they contained minor interstitial or laminated mud (derived from streams and abutting glaciers). The sand was disseminated or localized in mounds and 1 m to more than 10 m long elongate ridges. Mounds were centimetres to metres in diameter; conical, elongate or round in shape; and isolated or deposited near or on top of one another. Sand layers in the mounds had normal, inverse, or no grading. Nine mixed mud and sand facies were defined for perennially ice‐covered lakes based on the relative proportion of mud to sand and the style of sand deposition. While perennially ice‐covered lake facies overlap with other ice‐influenced lakes and glaciomarine facies, they are characterized by a paucity of grains coarser than granules, a narrow range in sand grain sizes, and inverse grading in the sand mounds. These facies can be used to infer changes in ice cover through time and to identify perennially ice‐covered lakes in the rock record. Ancient perennially ice‐covered lakes are expected on Earth and Mars, and their characterization will provide new insights into past climatic conditions and habitability.
Predictive Validity toward Job Performance of General and Specific Mental Abilities. A Validity Study across Different Occupational Groups
Authors: Grobelny Jaroslaw
Published: July 2018

There are two main views on the role of cognitive abilities in job performance prediction. The first approach is based on meta-analysis and incremental validity analysis research and the main assumption is that general mental ability (GMA) is the best job performance predictor regardless of the occupation. The second approach, referred to as specific validity theory, assumes that job-unique weighting of different specific mental abilities (SMA) is a better predictor of job performance than GMA and occupational context cannot be ignored when job performance is predicted. The validity study of both GMA and SMA as predictors of job performance across different occupational groups (N = 4033, k = 15) was conducted. The results were analyzed by calculating observed validity coefficients and with the use of the incremental validity and the relative importance analysis. The results supports the specific validity theory – SMA proved to be a valid job performance predictor and occupational context moderated GMA validity.
Numerical simulations of perovskite thin-film solar cells using a CdS hole blocking layer
Authors: Devi Nisha , Parrey Khursheed A. , Aziz Anver , Datta Shouvik
Published: July 2018

In this work, the numerical simulation of CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite solar cells was undertaken using the scaps-1d solar cell capacitance simulator software. A perovskite solar cell was simulated for best efficiency by replacing the traditional compact TiO2 layer with CdS (i.e., a hole-blocking layer) because CdS layers have been shown to possess a greater photostability than TiO2 with continuous illumination of sunlight. With the view of optimizing the device fabrication of perovskite/CdS thin-film solar cell (TFSC) for maximum efficiency, the perovskite/CdS TFSC structure was optimized theoretically using scaps-1d, which is possible because the perovskite layer has the same configuration and an excitation type as CdTe, copper-indium-gallium-selenide, and other inorganic semiconductor solar cells. Solar cell performance is highly dependent on the layer parameters, and so the effect that absorber thickness, bulk defects, and interface defects have on the device performance was studied and the device was optimized. Further, the effect that atmospheric conditions have on device performance was studied by varying the temperature and illumination density, and the optimum performance was found. After these optimizations, the simulation results show that a perovskite thickness of 500 nm yields an efficiency of 23.83% with a high open-circuit voltage of 1.37 V. These results for this absorber thickness is in good agreement with reports of experimental results for this device.
Barium isotope evidence for pervasive sediment recycling in the upper mantle
Authors: Nielsen Sune G. , Horner Tristan J. , Pryer Helena V. , Blusztajn Jerzy , Shu Yunchao , Kurz Mark D. , Le Roux Véronique
Published: July 2018

Barium isotopes in mid-ocean ridge basalts reveal that the global upper mantle is contaminated with small amounts of sediment.
Reversal of endothelial dysfunction reduces white matter vulnerability in cerebral small vessel disease in rats
Authors: Rajani Rikesh M. , Quick Sophie , Ruigrok Silvie R. , Graham Delyth , Harris Sarah E. , Verhaaren Benjamin F. J. , Fornage Myriam , Seshadri Sudha , Atanur Santosh S. , Dominiczak Anna F. , Smith Colin , Wardlaw Joanna M. , Williams Anna
Published: July 2018

Endothelial cell–stabilizing drugs reverse white matter pathology in a rat model of cerebral small vessel disease.
Linking Uncultivated Microbial Populations and Benthic Carbon Turnover by Using Quantitative Stable Isotope Probing
Authors: Coskun Ömer K. , Pichler Monica , Vargas Sergio , Gilder Stuart , Orsi William D.
Published: July 2018

Little is known about the ecological role of uncultivated microbial populations in carbon turnover in benthic environments. To better understand this, we used quantitative stable isotope probing (qSIP) to quantify the abundance of diverse, specific groups of uncultivated bacteria and archaea involved in autotrophy and heterotrophy in a benthic lacustrine habitat. Our results provide quantitative evidence for active heterotrophic and autotrophic metabolism of several poorly understood microbial groups, thus demonstrating their relevance for carbon turnover in benthic settings. Archaeal ammonia oxidizers were significant drivers of
in situ
“dark” primary production supporting the growth of heterotrophic bacteria. These findings expand our understanding of the microbial populations within benthic food webs and the role of uncultivated microbes in benthic carbon turnover.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Bacterium Serratia marcescens SGAir0764, Isolated from Singapore Air
Authors: Gaultier Nicolas E. , Junqueira Ana Carolina M. , Uchida Akira , Purbojati Rikky W. , Houghton James N. I. , Chénard Caroline , Wong Anthony , Clare Megan E. , Kushwaha Kavita K. , Panicker Deepa , Putra Alexander , Kee Carmon , Premkrishnan Balakrishnan N. V. , Heinle Cassie E. , Lim Serene B. Y. , Vettath Vineeth Kodengil , Drautz-Moses Daniela I. , Schuster Stephan C.
Published: July 2018

Serratia marcescens
strain SGAir0764 was isolated from a tropical air sample collected in Singapore. The complete genome, sequenced on the PacBio RS II platform, consists of one chromosome with 5.1 Mb and one plasmid with 76.4 kb.
Antimicrobial Resistance among Staphylococci of Animal Origin
Authors: Schwarz Stefan , Feßler Andrea T. , Loncaric Igor , Wu Congming , Kadlec Kristina , Wang Yang , Shen Jianzhong
Published: July 2018

Antimicrobial resistance among staphylococci of animal origin is based on a wide variety of resistance genes. These genes mediate resistance to many classes of antimicrobial agents approved for use in animals, such as penicillins, cephalosporins, tetracyclines, macrolides, lincosamides, phenicols, aminoglycosides, aminocyclitols, pleuromutilins, and diaminopyrimidines. In addition, numerous mutations have been identified that confer resistance to specific antimicrobial agents, such as ansamycins and fluoroquinolones. The gene products of some of these resistance genes confer resistance to only specific members of a class of antimicrobial agents, whereas others confer resistance to the entire class or even to members of different classes of antimicrobial agents, including agents approved solely for human use. The resistance genes code for all three major resistance mechanisms: enzymatic inactivation, active efflux, and protection/modification/replacement of the cellular target sites of the antimicrobial agents. Mobile genetic elements, in particular plasmids and transposons, play a major role as carriers of antimicrobial resistance genes in animal staphylococci. They facilitate not only the exchange of resistance genes among members of the same and/or different staphylococcal species, but also between staphylococci and other Gram-positive bacteria. The observation that plasmids of staphylococci often harbor more than one resistance gene points toward coselection and persistence of resistance genes even without direct selective pressure by a specific antimicrobial agent. This chapter provides an overview of the resistance genes and resistance-mediating mutations known to occur in staphylococci of animal origin.
Large Noncoding RNAs in Bacteria
Authors: Harris Kimberly A. , Breaker Ronald R.
Published: July 2018

Bacterial noncoding RNA (ncRNA) classes longer than 200 nucleotides are rare but are responsible for performing some of the most fundamental tasks in living cells. RNAs such as 16S and 23S rRNA, group I and group II introns, RNase P ribozymes, transfer-messenger RNAs, and coenzyme B
12
riboswitches are diverse in structure and accomplish biochemical functions that rival the activities of proteins. Over the last decade, a number of new classes of large ncRNAs have been uncovered in bacteria. A total of 21 classes with no established functions have been identified through the use of bioinformatics search strategies. Based on precedents for bacterial large ncRNAs performing sophisticated functions, it seems likely that some of these structured ncRNAs also will prove to carry out complex functions. Thus, determining their roles will provide a better understanding of fundamental biological processes. A few studies have produced data that provide clues to the purposes of some of these recently found classes, but the true functions of most classes remain mysterious.
Sad1 Spatiotemporally Regulates Kinetochore Clustering To Ensure High-Fidelity Chromosome Segregation in the Human Fungal Pathogen
Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Yadav Vikas , Sanyal Kaustuv
Published: July 2018

The linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex is present in fungi, animals, and plants. It performs diverse functions in animals, and its role(s) have recently been explored in plants. In ascomycetous yeast species, the role of the LINC complex in spindle pole body function and telomere clustering during meiosis has been determined. However, nothing is known about the LINC complex in the fungal phylum of Basidiomycota. In this study, we identified the role of the LINC complex in kinetochore dynamics as well as in nuclear migration in a basidiomycetous yeast,
Cryptococcus neoformans
, a human pathogen. Unlike most other yeast species, kinetochores remain unclustered during interphase but gradually cluster during mitosis in
C. neoformans
. We report that the LINC complex is required for timely onset of kinetochore clustering and high-fidelity chromosome segregation in
C. neoformans
. Thus, our study identifies a novel factor required for kinetochore clustering during mitosis in yeast species.
Fifteen-minute consultation: Management of the upper limb in unilateral cerebral palsy
Authors: Cadwgan Jill , Pearse Janice , Devlin Anita , Basu Anna
Published: July 2018

Children with unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP) have complex health, education and social care needs. Delayed gross motor milestones are the most common presenting feature, and much of the early management focuses on gross motor skills and lower limb management. In later childhood, adolescence and adulthood, upper limb function has significant impact on activity, participation and independence. There is clear pathophysiological rationale and emerging clinical evidence that earlier intervention to improve upper limb function is beneficial. Whereas most children with UCP are managed in secondary care, it is recommended that the assessment and delivery of specialist intervention for the upper limb occurs at a regional centre.
The prevalence of type 2 diabetes in South Africa: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Pheiffer Carmen , Pillay-van Wyk Victoria , Joubert Jané D , Levitt Naomi , Nglazi Mweete D , Bradshaw Debbie
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a major source of morbidity and mortality in South Africa, spurred by increased urbanisation and unhealthy lifestyle factors. Local epidemiological data are required to inform health planning and policy. The purpose of this systematic review is to identify, collate and synthesise all studies reporting the prevalence of diabetes in South Africa. A secondary aim is to report the prevalence of impaired glucose tolerance and impaired fasting glucose, conditions which are associated with an increased risk of progression to overt diabetes, and the prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes.

Methods and analysis

Multiple databases will be searched for diabetes prevalence studies conducted in South Africa between 1997 and 2018. Two authors will independently select studies that meet the inclusion criteria, extract data and appraise studies using a risk of bias tool for prevalence studies. Studies with low or moderate risk of bias will be included. Sources of heterogeneity will be explored using subgroup analysis.

Ethics and dissemination

The systematic review does not require ethics clearance since published studies with non-identifiable data will be used. This review will provide best estimates to inform the Second National Burden of Disease study which can guide health and policy planning.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42017071280
Impact of urology simulation boot camp in improving endoscopic instrument knowledge
Authors: Hanchanale Vishwanath , Kailavasan Mithun , Rajpal Sanjay , Koenig Philip , Yiasemidou Marina , Palit Victor , Rogawski Karol , Eardley Ian , Terry Tim , Jain Sunjay , Myatt Andrew , Biyani Chandra Shekhar
Published: July 2018

Objective

Education and training of surgeons has traditionally focused on the development of individual knowledge, technical skills and decision making. Knowledge about endoscopic instruments is one of the core elements of urological training. We assessed the precourse knowledge of newly appointed urology trainees and the impact of boot camp in improving their knowledge.

Methods

Newly appointed specialty trainees in urology took part in a pilot 5-day urology simulation boot camp (USBC). The aim of the USBC was to improve their confidence, procedural performance and non-technical skills, with one of the modules looking at the trainees’ knowledge about common endoscopic instruments in urology. Delegates were first asked to identify and assemble the instruments, followed by one-to-one teaching about the instruments. An Objective Structured Assessment Tool was used to assess their knowledge in the identification and assembly of the cystoscope, resectoscope and optical urethrotome, before and at the end of the course.

Results

Data of two successive boot camps were collected to assess knowledge of instruments of newly appointed urology trainees. Majority of the trainees had good precourse knowledge of the cystoscopy kit, with 84% able to correctly identify the parts. Seventy-six per cent of candidates were able to identify the resectoscope equipment, but only approximately a third of trainees were able to correctly identify the urethrotome kit. The assembly of cystoscope, resectoscope and urethrotome was performed correctly in 74%, 42% and 32% at baseline and 94%, 90% and 77% postcourse, respectively. Overall performance improved significantly in the postcourse assessment (<0.001).

Conclusion

This urology boot camp has addressed gaps in trainees’ core equipment knowledge and guided them to improve their knowledge with respect to identification and assembly of cystoscope, resectoscope and urethrotome.
Thoracic and abdominal pain in a 28-year-old woman with a failing kidney transplant
Authors: Pavlov Kirill , Koehestanie Parweez , Beutler Jaap J , Römkens Tessa E H , Hoogeveen Ellen K , Nissen Loes H C
Published: July 2018

This case report describes a young, immunocompromised patient who presented with thoracic pain. After an extensive workup, she was diagnosed with a varicella zoster virus infection with involvement of the gastric mucosa, pancreas and lungs for which she was treated with acyclovir. Although the viral load decreased significantly, the patient had persistent postherpetic neuralgia and nausea.
Performance of the BMJ learning training modules for ECG interpretation in athletes
Authors: Riding Nathan R , Drezner Jonathan A
Published: July 2018

To assess the accuracy of interpreting the athlete’s ECG both pre and post a series of online training modules among a range of healthcare professionals. 10 512 healthcare professionals from 138 different nations commenced the online course. These were primarily doctors (43%), nurses (18.4%) and other healthcare professionals (3.9%). The users came from 102 different specialities, with General Practice/Family Medicine (24.5%), Cardiology (10.6%), Emergency Medicine (8.7%) and Sports Medicine (6.6%) predominating. Among the 2023 users who completed both the pre-course and post-course test, there was an overall improvement of 15.3% (95% CI 13.9% to 16.6%; p<0.001). 930 completed all four other modules, and these users fared significantly better (18.7% increase; 95% CI 17.3 to 20.0) than those completing no additional modules (11.7% increase; 95% CI 3.3 to 17.7, p=0.036). Demographic analysis showed that while the starting pre-test scores varied significantly between profession/specialty groups (57.8%–82.6%), post-test scores were largely consistent (80.8%–84.6%). Although users showed the most improvement when interpreting primary electrical diseases (12.4% increase), it was also an area of notable weakness compared with the modules of normal training-related findings and cardiomyopathies. With the evolving criteria for ECG interpretation eliciting ever improving levels of specificity and sensitivity in the detection of conditions associated with sudden cardiac death among athletes, training is required to ensure the infrastructure and personnel is in place to uphold these standards. The BMJ Learning course presented is a valuable first step and demonstrates that such an online tool can be effective in aiding ECG interpretation among healthcare professionals globally.
HIV-associated cardiovascular disease: importance of platelet activation and cardiac fibrosis in the setting of specific antiretroviral therapies
Authors: Laurence Jeffrey , Elhadad Sonia , Ahamed Jasimuddin
Published: July 2018

HIV infection is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). This risk is accentuated by certain combination antiretroviral therapies (cARTs), independent of their effects on lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. We sought to define potential mechanisms for this association through systematic review of clinical and preclinical studies of CVD in the setting of HIV/cART from the English language literature from 1989 to March 2018. We used PubMed, Web of Knowledge and Google Scholar, and conference abstracts for the years 2015–March 2018. We uncovered three themes: (1) a critical role for the HIV protease inhibitor (PI) ritonavir and certain other PI-based regimens. (2) The importance of platelet activation. Virtually all PIs, and one nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor, abacavir, activate platelets, but a role for this phenomenon in clinical CVD risk may require additional postactivation processes, including: release of platelet transforming growth factor-β1; induction of oxidative stress with production of reactive oxygen species from vascular cells; suppression of extracellular matrix autophagy; and/or sustained proinflammatory signalling, leading to cardiac fibrosis and dysfunction. Cardiac fibrosis may underlie an apparent shift in the character of HIV-linked CVD over the past decade from primarily left ventricular systolic to diastolic dysfunction, possibly driven by cART. (3) Recognition of the need for novel interventions. Switching from cART regimens based on PIs to contemporary antiretroviral agents such as the integrase strand transfer inhibitors, which have not been linked to clinical CVD, may not mitigate CVD risk assumed under prior cART. In conclusion, attention to the effects of specific antiretroviral drugs on platelet activation and related profibrotic signalling pathways should help: guide selection of appropriate anti-HIV therapy; assist in evaluation of CVD risk related to novel antiretrovirals; and direct appropriate interventions.
Long-term effects on soil-water nitrogen and pH of clearcutting and simulated disc trenching of previously nitrogen-fertilised pine plots
Authors: Ring Eva , Högbom Lars , Jacobson Staffan , Jansson Gunnar , Nohrstedt Hans-Örjan
Published: July 2018

Forest fertilisation with nitrogen (N) typically increases N leaching for 1–2 years. Some studies have reported effects also after clearcutting. This study presents an analysis of soil-water chemistry data from the 3rd to the 15th year after clearcutting of fertilised experimental plots on a low-fertility site in Sweden. Before clearcutting in 1987, study plots had been fertilised with NH4NO3 in 1967, 1974, and 1981, resulting in total applications ranging from 0 to 1800 kg N·ha−1. In 1989, disc trenching was simulated by manual digging on small subplots within the fertilised main plots. Soil-water samples were collected at a depth of 50 cm. Previous N fertilisation and site preparation, respectively, affected (p < 0.05) the total N and NO3–-N concentrations and pH of soil water, but no statistical interaction between fertilisation and site preparation was found. The NO3–-N concentration was elevated for total N applications above 720 kg·ha−1 (mean NO3–-N concentration of 0.93 mg·L−1 for 1080 kg N·ha−1, 1.6 mg·L−1 for 1440 kg N·ha−1, and 2.4 mg·L−1 for 1800 kg N·ha−1 compared with 0.20 mg·L−1 for the control) and lower after simulated disc trenching (0.63 mg·L−1) than in nontrenched soil (1.3 mg·L−1). The elevations in the soil-water NO3–-N concentration for the fertiliser treatments seemed to be related to changes in the soil N store created by previous fertilisation.
Effects of a one-time application of bentonite on soil enzymes in a semi-arid region
Authors: Mi Junzhen , Gregorich Edward G. , Xu Shengtao , McLaughlin Neil B. , Liu Jinghui
Published: July 2018

Soil enzymes play a key role in many soil processes that affect soil health and which may be adversely affected under a changing climate. We investigated the short- and long-term effects of bentonite amendments on soil catalase, invertase, urease, and alkaline phosphatase activity in a field experiment in a semi-arid region in northern China. Treatments included six rates of bentonite amendments (0, 6, 12, 18, 24, and 30 Mg ha−1) applied only once in 2011. Addition of bentonite had a significant (P < 0.01) effect on the activity of each enzyme at different layers and days after millet sowing. Observed increases in catalase, invertase, urease, and alkaline phosphatase activities were up to 42%, 46%, 58%, and 50%, respectively, and they were approximately linear with increasing bentonite rate up to 24 Mg ha−1over the 5 yr experimental period. Averaged over 5 yr, the 24 Mg ha−1rate of bentonite amendment led to the largest effect on soil enzyme activity in all soil layers at five growth stages over the growing season. The observed increased enzyme activity suggests that bentonite can help maintain and improve soil health to support plant growth and contribute to sustainable agriculture production in a semi-arid environment.