bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolic syndrome in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: Association with disease activity, disease damage and age
Authors: Mobini Maryam , Niksolat Fatemeh , Mohammadpour Reza Ali , Dashti Dargahloo Saeed , Marzban Dorsa
Published: April 2018

Aim

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular involvement. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) includes a group of classic cardiovascular risk factors with probably proinflammatory conditions. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the frequency of MetS in SLE patients.

Methods

Demographic, clinical and laboratory features of 73 SLE patients were compared with 73 age–sex matched controls using SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), Systemic Lupus Damage Index (SDI) and Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ). MetS was diagnosed according to the definitions of the 2005 National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP/ATP III) and International Diabetes Federation (IDF). The frequency of MetS was compared in SLE patients and controls, and then patients were investigated for MetS and major organ involvement. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS version 19, and results were considered significant at P < 0.05.

Results

The mean age of SLE patients was 40.97 ± 12.2 years, and 95.8% were female. MetS according to NCEP/ATP III and IDF criteria was present in 33 (45.2%) and 34 (46.6%) SLE patients versus 27 (37%) and 29 (39.7%) controls (P > 0.05). Lupus patients were more likely to have hypertension (P = 0.038). SLE patients with MetS had higher HAQ scores (P = 0.029). In patients with major organ involvement, age and disease duration were significantly higher in the MetS subgroup (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The frequency of MetS was not significantly different from that of the control group, but almost half of the patients were found with this syndrome. This calls for further follow up and appropriate treatment of patients with MetS.
Life history and reproduction of the neotropical caecilian Siphonops annulatus (Amphibia, Gymnophiona, Siphonopidae), with special emphasis on parental care
Authors: Jared Carlos , Mailho‐Fontana Pedro Luiz , Jared Simone G. S. , Kupfer Alexander , Delabie Jacques Hubert Charles , Wilkinson Mark , Antoniazzi Marta Maria
Published: April 2018

Due to their mainly fossorial way of life, caecilian amphibians are the least known order of terrestrial vertebrates. Here, we present new observations on the natural history and reproductive biology of the neotropical oviparous, siphonopid caecilian Siphonops annulatus from a long‐term study of this species in the field and in captivity. In the studied population, mating occurs between the end of August and beginning of October, and oviposition between November and December, when rainfall peaks. Egg hatching occurs between the end of December and beginning of January. The complete cycle of maternal care, from oviposition to independent, self‐sufficient offspring lasts about 3 months. After eclosion, the altricial young feed on the mother's specially modified skin (maternal dermatophagy) and are also supplied by a fluid released from coming from the maternal cloaca. Also presented are observations on the burrows, feeding and social behaviour of S. annulatus.
In vitro evaluation of 225Ac‐DOTA‐substance P for targeted alpha therapy of glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Majkowska‐Pilip Agnieszka , Rius Maria , Bruchertseifer Frank , Apostolidis Christos , Weis Mirjam , Bonelli Milton , Laurenza Marta , Królicki Leszek , Morgenstern Alfred
Published: April 2018

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most malignant form of brain tumors with dismal prognosis despite treatment by surgery combined with radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The neuropeptide Substance P (SP) is the physiological ligand of the neurokinin‐1 receptor, which is highly expressed in glioblastoma cells. Thus, SP represents a potential ligand for targeted alpha therapy. In this study, a protocol for the synthesis of SP labeled with the alpha emitter 225Ac was developed and binding affinity properties were determined. The effects of 225Ac‐DOTA‐SP were investigated on human glioblastoma cell lines (T98G, U87MG, U138MG) as well as GBM stem cells. A significant dose‐dependent reduction in cell viability was detected up to 6 days after treatment. Also, colony‐forming capacity was inhibited at the lower doses tested. In comparison, treatment with the conventional agent temozolomide showed higher cell viability and colony‐forming capacity. 225Ac‐DOTA‐SP treatment caused induction of late apoptosis pathways. Cells were arrested to G2/M‐phase upon treatment. Increasing doses and treatment time caused additional S‐phase arrest. Similar results were obtained using human glioblastoma stem cells, known to show radioresistance. Our data suggest that 225Ac‐DOTA‐SP is a promising compound for treatment of GBM.
Climate versus weather extremes: Temporal predictor resolution matters for future rather than current regional species distribution models
Authors: Feldmeier Stephan , Schefczyk Lukas , Hochkirch Axel , Lötters Stefan , Pfeifer Manfred A. , Heinemann Günther , Veith Michael
Published: April 2018

Aim

Climate is considered a major driver of species distributions. Long‐term climatic means are commonly used as predictors in correlative species distribution models (SDMs). However, this coarse temporal resolution does not reflect local conditions that populations experience, such as short‐term weather extremes, which may have a strong impact on population dynamics and local distributions. We here compare the performance of climate‐ and weather‐based predictors in regional SDMs and their influence on future predictions, which are increasingly used in conservation planning.

Location

South‐western Germany.

Methods

We built different SDMs for 20 Orthoptera species based on three predictor sets at a regional scale for current and future climate scenarios. We calculated standard bioclimatic variables and yearly and seasonal sets of climate change indicating variables of weather extremes. As the impact of extreme events may be stronger for habitat specialists than for generalists, we distinguished species’ degrees of specialization. We computed linear mixed‐effects models to identify significant effects of algorithm, predictor set and specialization on model performance and calculated correlations and geographical niche overlap between spatial predictions.

Results

Current predictions were rather similar among all predictor sets, but highly variable for future climate scenarios. Bioclimatic and seasonal weather predictors performed slightly better than yearly weather predictors, though performance differences were minor. We found no evidence that specialists are more sensitive to weather extremes than generalists.

Main conclusions

For future projections of species distributions, SDM predictor selection should not solely be based on current performances and predictions. As long‐term climate and short‐term weather predictors represent different environmental drivers of a species’ distribution, we argue to interpret diverging future projections as complements. Even if similar current performances and predictions might imply their equivalency, favouring one predictor set neglects important aspects of future distributions and might mislead conservation decisions based on them.
Pyramidal structure, risk‐taking and firm value
Authors: Su Kun , Wan Rui , Song Victor Y.
Published: April 2018

This article investigates the relationship among pyramidal layers, risk‐taking and firm value using a sample of local state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) in China. We find that state‐pyramidal layers have a positive and significant impact on firm risk‐taking and firm value, suggesting that the pyramidal structure formed by the state protects SOEs from political intervention. Risk‐taking is conducive to enhancing firm value and is one of the important channels through which state‐pyramidal layers increase firm value. By exploring the role of state‐pyramidal organizational structures in improving SOEs' risk‐taking, our results contribute to both corporate governance and corporate finance literature.
The sea as deathtrap: comment on a paper by miller and wiens
Authors: Vermeij Geerat J. , Grosberg Richard K. , Marshall Charles R. , Motani Ryosuke
Published: April 2018

Miller & Wiens (2017) claim that low marine as compared with terrestrial diversity results from more frequent extinctions and insufficient time for diversification in marine clades. Their data on marine amniotes are unrepresentative of marine diversity, their analysis of clade dynamics is flawed, and they ignore previously proposed explanations for the diversity difference.
Demystifying the marine‐terrestrial biodiversity gradient: response to Vermeij et al.
Authors: Miller Elizabeth C. , Wiens John J.
Published: April 2018

We respond to seven criticisms made by Vermeij et al. () regarding Miller & Wiens (). Their criticisms generally reflect misunderstandings, unsupported speculations, and topics that were explicitly addressed in our paper.
Population isolation predicts the severity of historical human epidemics
Authors: Start Denon , Kirk Devin
Published: April 2018

Aim

Infectious diseases are a major source of human mortality and have altered human history. Despite their importance, we lack a thorough understanding of why some historical epidemics were more deadly than others. For many organisms, geographically isolated populations (e.g., populations distant from the mainland) experience more severe epidemics, including after long periods of isolation. These patterns are likely to arise because geographical isolation reduces contact with infectious diseases, causing a corresponding naïvety and susceptibility to those pathogens. Here, we test for equivalent patterns in human populations, but over much longer time frames than have been considered previously.

Location

Global, but with a particular focus on islands in the Americas and the Pacific.

Time period

Approximately 1000–1920 CE.

Major taxa studied

Humans and two of their pathogens: smallpox and influenza.

Methods

We used historical mortality data from populations afflicted with smallpox or Spanish flu to test for relationships between isolation, a suite of covariates (e.g., island size, population density) and epidemic severity (mortality rate).

Results

We show that populations isolated from the mainland suffered greater mortality. Interestingly, New World populations suffered universally higher mortality during smallpox epidemics, probably because they became isolated before the appearance of smallpox, causing high levels of susceptibility. Conversely, by 1918 New World populations were predominantly Eurasian and thus historically exposed to influenza, causing low mortality.

Conclusion

Human populations exhibit patterns of epidemics analogous to those in non‐human species; isolated populations tend to suffer more severe epidemics. However, historical contingencies can cause patterns to diverge from those typically observed among other free‐living species. Generally, we suggest that geography underlies the ecology and evolution of humans and their pathogens.
Total mixed ration silage containing elephant grass for small‐scale dairy farms
Authors: Gusmão J. O. , Danés M. A. C. , Casagrande D. R. , Bernardes T. F.
Published: April 2018

Alternatives need to be addressed for reducing losses in elephant grass (EG; Pennisetum purpureum) silages. Furthermore, smallholders lack information on the nutritional aspects of dairy farms. The aim of this study was to evaluate total mixed ration silage (TMR) combining fresh EG and concentrate ingredients, creating the following treatments: (i) EG silage (control); (ii) EG, corn and soya bean meal; (iii) EG, corn, soya bean meal and molasses; (iv) EG, citrus pulp and soya bean meal; and (v) EG, citrus pulp, soya bean meal and molasses. Five replicates of each treatment were ensiled in 15‐L plastic jars. The fermentation profile, chemical composition, microbial counts and aerobic stability were assessed. Three contrasts were tested, as follows: (i) control vs. TMR; (ii) TMR with corn vs. TMR with citrus pulp; and (iii) TMR with molasses vs. TMR without molasses. Variables were analysed through the PROC MIXED procedure of the SAS at the 5% level. The TMR had better fermentation profile, lower effluent production and longer aerobic stability compared to control. When the effect of corn was compared to citrus pulp among the TMR, silages with citrus pulp showed lower fermentation losses, non‐protein nitrogen and effluent production. The aerobic stability also improved with citrus pulp. Molasses did not affect the fermentation profile. Overall, lactic acid was the primary acid in all TMR. Nitrogen source (e.g., soya bean meal) can be used without compromising the fermentation process. TMR with citrus pulp showed better results than corn. TMR may be an alternative to optimize the use of EG on smallholdings.
The skill profile of the employees and the provision of flexible working hours in the workplace: a multilevel analysis across European countries
Authors: Riva Egidio , Lucchini Mario , den Dulk Laura , Ollier‐Malaterre Ariane
Published: April 2018

This article investigates the relationship between the skill profile of the employees (i.e. the percentage of employees in highly skilled jobs) and the provision of flexible working hours in the workplace (i.e. the proportion of employees entitled to adapt, within certain limits, the time when they begin or finish their daily work according to their personal needs or wishes). Analyses draw on the 2009 European Company Survey, conducted on a representative sample (N = 26,640) of European establishments in 29 countries. Multilevel mixed‐effects linear regressions are used to study to what extent both workplace‐level and national‐level variables affect this relationship. Findings suggest a strong, positive and non‐linear relationship between the variables under scrutiny, which is moderated, at national level, by both unemployment and trade union density rates.
Shear‐induced brittle failure of titanium carbide from quantum mechanics simulations
Authors: Tang Bin , Shen Yidi , An Qi
Published: April 2018

Titanium carbide (TiC) has a wide range of engineering applications such as structural components, protective coating materials for cutting tools and strengthening phase because of such superior properties as high wear resistance, high hardness, and good chemical resistance. However, the intrinsic failure mechanism of TiC remains unknown, which limits its extended engineering applications. Here, we used density‐functional theory (DFT) at the Perdew‐Burke‐Ernzerhof (PBE) level to examine the shear‐induced failure mechanism of TiC along various plausible slip systems. We found that the (110)[1 0] slip system has the lowest critical shear strength under both pure shear and indentation stress conditions, suggesting that it is the most plausible failure system under both conditions. The failure mechanism arises from the Ti–C bond stretching and finally breaking with the increase in shear strain. The deformation modes along other possible slip systems are also investigated, which illustrate the failure mechanism along other slip systems. Our results provide atomistic explanation of the brittle failure of TiC, which will be useful for designing TiC based hard materials with improved mechanical properties.
Effect of ligand field symmetry on upconversion luminescence in heat‐treated LaBGeO5:Yb3+, Er3+ glass
Authors: Ali Mohamed. A. , Ren Jinjun , Liu Xiaofeng , Qiu Jianrong
Published: April 2018

In this paper, we report upconversion (UC) luminescence enhancement in LaBGeO5:Yb3+, Er3+ glass‐ceramics (GCs), surface crystallized glass‐ceramics (SCGCs) and ceramics compared with the as‐melt glass fabricated by the conventional melt‐quenching technique. Based on structural investigations, we find that the nucleation and crystallization of trigonal stillwellite LaBGeO5:Yb3+, Er3+ nanocrystals occur first at the glass surface before the following volume crystallization. The local site symmetry around rare earth (RE) ions which was evaluated using the Eu3+ ions as a probe together with Judd‐Ofelt theory calculations exhibits a clear increase with the devitrification of the glass. Consequently, complete crystallization of the glass leads to largest enhancement in the UC emissions of the LaBGeO5:Yb3+, Er3+ ceramics. We ascribe the enhancement of UC luminescence in the LaBGeO5:Yb3+, Er3+ GCs, SCGCs, and ceramics to the structural ordering and the improvement of site symmetry surrounding RE ions that minimizes the rate of nonradiative relaxation process.
Association between periodontal disease and gestational diabetes mellitus—A prospective cohort study
Authors: Kumar Ashok , Sharma Deepika S. , Verma Mahesh , Lamba Arundeep Kaur , Gupta Madhavi M. , Sharma Shashi , Perumal Vanamail
Published: April 2018

Aim

This study aimed to determine the association between periodontal disease and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and the effect of this association on pregnancy outcome in North Indian population.

Materials and Methods

A total of 584 primigravidae were recruited at 12–14 weeks of gestation. Their periodontal examination was carried out along with 75 g oral glucose load test at the time of recruitment. GDM was diagnosed as per the DIPSI (The Diabetes in Pregnancy Study group India) guidelines (≥140 mg/dl). Women with normal plasma glucose values underwent a repeat 75 g oral glucose load test at 24–28 weeks of gestation. All patients were followed up for pregnancy outcomes.

Results

Of 584 primigravida, 184 (31.5%) had gingivitis and 148 (25.3%) had periodontitis. Overall, 332 (56.8%) pregnant women had periodontal disease. It was associated with GDM with adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of 2.85 (95%CI = 1.47–5.53). The occurrence of pre‐eclampsia was associated with periodontal disease with aHR of 2.20 (95%CI = 0.86–5.60). If primigravidae had periodontal disease along with GDM, the risk of pre‐eclampsia had shown increased aHR of 18.79 (95% CI = 7.45–47.40).

Conclusions

The study shows a significant association of periodontal disease with GDM and an increased risk of developing pre‐eclampsia due to this association.
Perception, attitude, and satisfaction of paediatric physicians and nurses towards clinical practice guidelines at a university teaching hospital
Authors: Amer Yasser Sami , Al Nemri Abdulrahman , Osman Mohamed Elfaki , Saeed Elshazaly , Assiri Asaad Mohamed , Mohamed Sarar
Published: April 2018

Rationale, aims, and objectives

To explore perception, attitude, and satisfaction of paediatric clinicians, trainees, and nurses at King Khalid University Hospital towards clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) including the locally adapted diabetic ketoacidosis CPG (DKA‐CPG).

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was distributed to 260 doctors and nurses working in the paediatrics department.

Results

The response rate was 95.4%. The respondents had a positive perception and attitude towards general CPGs and specifically for the DKA‐CPG; 98.7% thought CPGs were useful sources of advice, improved safety, and decreased risk, and reduced variation in practice.

A total of 99.2% thought CPGs were good clinical tools, 98.3% satisfied with, had confidence in well‐developed CPGs, and would recommend them to their colleagues to use, and 94.6% agreed they were cost‐effective. The preferred format for CPGs was paper (46.6%) and electronic (42.9%). The DKA‐CPG helped in managing patients and respondents were all satisfied and had confidence with it (100%). The rationale and objectives of the DKA‐CPG were clear for 99.25%; 98.5% thought the layout was clear and well organized and user‐friendly (96.2%). Compared with nurses, physicians had a higher perception towards CPGs in general (P < .05) and the DKA‐CPG (P < .05).

Conclusions

The paediatric doctors, and nurses have a great perception and satisfaction and positive attitude towards CPGs in general, towards the paediatric diabetic ketoacidosis CPG in particular, which in turn had a positive impact on the acceptability and implementation of the CPGs. These findings could help in sustaining a safe and high‐quality health care environment through implementation of evidence‐based CPGs.
Valorization of hazelnut shells into natural antioxidants by ultrasound‐assisted extraction: Process optimization and phenolic composition identification
Authors: Yuan Bo , Lu Mei , Eskridge Kent M. , Hanna Milford A.
Published: April 2018

The objectives of this study were to optimize the ultrasound‐assisted extraction for phenolic compounds from hazelnut shells and to quantify the individual phenolics. A central composite design was used to optimize extraction time, acetone concentration, and solid to liquid ratio (S/L), for the maximal yield of phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacities. The optimal conditions were 4.0 hr extraction time, 61% acetone, and 10 g/L S/L for the maximal total phenolic content (TPC, 11.23 mg gallic acid equivalents/g shell); 3.7 hr, 60.5% acetone, and 12.9 g/L for the highest ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP, 106.3 µmol Trolox equivalents/g shell); and 4.7 hr, 58.3% acetone, and 10 g/L for the highest DPPH radical scavenging capacity (DRSC, 101.83 µmol Trolox equivalents/g shell). Catechin, epicatechin gallate, and gallic acid were the most abundant phenolic compounds in the hazelnut shells. Ultrasound could be a good tool for accelerated recovery of polyphenols from hazelnut shells.

Practical applications

There has been an increasing production and application of hazelnuts globally. As the main byproduct of hazelnut industry, hazelnut hard shells are a good source of high value polyphenols. The optimized process presented here will allow a better understanding in the extraction of polyphenols from hazelnut shells. The results of this study are expected to improve the extraction efficiency of phenolic compounds and to help with the development of industrial extraction processes of natural antioxidants from hazelnut shells and other hard shells of tree nuts.
Staphylococcal enterotoxin M causes intestine dysfunction via activating inflammation
Authors: Zhao Yanying , Tang Junni
Published: April 2018

Staphylococcal enterotoxins are considered as causative agents for staphylococcal food poisoning. Although newly identified SEM exhibits mild emetic activity in a cynomolgus monkey, but the distinct role of it in staphylococcal foodborne diseases has not been deeply understood. In the present study, the secretion of SEM in vivo from a clinical S. aureus strain SA004 associated with food poisoning was assayed. Like S. aureus strain SA004, SEM also promoted interferon‐γ secretion into the blood of BALB/c mice and caused extensive inflammatory cell invasion, loss of epithelium, and villous blunting in the duodenums. The monoclonal antibody against it countered these detrimental effects and inhibited bacterial growth in mice. The results suggested that SEM might participate in triggering staphylococcal food poisoning via activating inflammatory reaction and causing intestine dysfunction.

Practical applications

This study provides evidence for the biological properties of SEM and is in support of the in vivo biological activity of toxin‐specific monoclonal antibody. In this experiment, monoclonal antibody against SEM could neutralize SEM in blood secreted by S. aureus, inhibit inflammatory factor interferon‐γ production, depress bacterial growth, and protect the mice from duodenum damage. All these suggest that toxin‐neutralizing antibody could offer a successful opportunity to block virulence factors in vivo.
Differences in the prevalence of sarcopenia in haemodialysis patients: the effects of gender and ethnicity
Authors: Yoowannakul S. , Tangvoraphonkchai K. , Vongsanim S. , Mohamed A. , Davenport A.
Published: April 2018

Background

There is no universal consensus definition of sarcopenia, although there is agreement that sarcopenia is a risk factor for mortality in haemodialysis (HD) patients. We aimed to determine the effect of using different operational definitions in a multiracial group of HD patients.

Methods

We measured hand grip strength (HGS) and appendicular lean mass (ALM) by segmental bioimpedance using the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health Sarcopenia Project (FNIH), European Working Group on Sarcopenia (EWGS) and Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia definitions for HGS weakness and loss of appendicular lean mass.

Results

In total, there were 600 HD patients: 373 men (62.2%), mean (SD) age 66.3 (14.7) years, 45.6% diabetic, ethnicity: 281 (48.5%) White, 167 (27.8%) Asian and 149 (24.8%) Black. On HGS criteria, 90.5% of Asian women and 88.5% of Asian men were weak according to EWGS compared to 62.3% of Black women and 52.5% of Black men and 64.5% of White women and 69.1% of White men by FNIH criteria (P < 0.001). On adding appendicular lean mass, the prevalence of sarcopenia was 68.3% for Asian, 27.1% for Black and 36.6% for White women by FNIH and 59.6% Asian, 21.3% Black and 39.9% White men by EWGS criteria.

Conclusions

Current definitions of sarcopenia report a greater prevalence of muscle weakness compared to appendicular muscle loss in female compared to male HD patients and this is greater for Asian compared to Black and White patients. Because HGS weakness is a greater risk for death, definitions of sarcopenia may underestimate risk in HD patients.
Dietary Phosphorus Requirement of Fingerling Indian Major Carp, Labeo rohita (Hamilton)
Authors: Musharraf Mohammad , Khan Mukhtar A.
Published: April 2018

Dietary phosphorus requirement of fingerling Labeo rohita (6.1 ± 0.13 cm; 1.88 ± 0.05 g) was quantified by feeding seven isonitrogenous (350 g/kg crude protein) and isocaloric (16.72 kJ/g gross energy) purified diets with different levels of phosphorus as 3.5 (basal diet), 4.6, 5.7, 6.5, 7.8, 8.9, and 10.1 g/kg. Triplicate groups of fish were fed at 0800, 1200, and 1600 h to apparent satiation for 8 wk. Live weight gain (LWG; 494.68%), specific growth rate (3.18%/d), feed conversion ratio (1.54), feed efficiency (0.65), protein gain (PG; 1.26 g/fish), protein efficiency ratio (1.86), and phosphorus utilization efficiency (98.78%) improved significantly (P < 0.05), with increasing dietary phosphorus level up to 6.5 g/kg. However, phosphorus contents of vertebrae and scale increased significantly up to 7.8 g/kg. Dietary phosphorus levels significantly affected serum phosphorus concentration and alkaline phosphatase activity. Broken‐line analysis based on LWG; PG; and whole‐body, vertebrae, and scale phosphorus against dietary phosphorus indicated the optimal phosphorus requirement of fingerling L. rohita at 6.56, 6.58, 6.56, 8.02, and 8.44 g/kg diet, respectively. In order to restrict superfluous phosphorus in the diet, inclusion of 6.56 g/kg phosphorus is recommended for optimal growth of fingerling L. rohita.
S100A12 as a marker of worse cardiac output and mortality in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Tzouvelekis Argyrios , Herazo‐Maya Jose D. , Ryu Changwan , Chu Jen‐Hwa , Zhang Yingze , Gibson Kevin F. , Adonteng‐Boateng Percy K. , Li Qin , Pan Hongyi , Cherry Benjamin , Ahmad Ferhaan , Ford Hubert J. , Herzog Erica L. , Kaminski Naftali , Fares Wassim H.
Published: April 2018

Background and objective

Molecular biomarkers are needed to refine prognostication and phenotyping of pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients. S100A12 is an emerging biomarker of various inflammatory diseases. This study aims to determine the prognostic value of S100A12 in PH.

Methods

Exploratory microarray analysis performed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) collected from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients suggested an association between S100A12 and both PH and mortality. So the current study was designed to evaluate for an association between S100A12 in peripheral blood collected from two well‐phenotyped PH cohorts in two other centres to derive and validate an association between S100A12 protein serum concentrations and mortality.

Results

The majority of the patients in the discovery and validation cohorts were either World Health Organization (WHO) group 1 (pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)) or 3 (lung disease‐associated) PH. In the discovery PH cohort, S100A12 was significantly increased in patients with PH (n = 51) compared to controls (n = 22) (29.8 vs 15.7 ng/mL, P < 0.001) and negatively correlated with cardiac output (r = −0.58, P < 0.001) in PH patients. When S100A12 data were pooled from both cohorts, PAH and non‐PAH PH patients had higher S100A12 compared to healthy external controls (32.6, 30.9, 15.7 ng/mL; P < 0.001). S100A12 was associated with an increased risk in overall mortality in PH patients in both the discovery (n = 51; P = 0.008) and validation (n = 40; P < 0.001) cohorts.

Conclusion

S100A12 levels are increased in PH patients and are associated with increased mortality.
AN APPLICATION OF ALGORITHMS OF ADAMS AND GEAR METHODS ON BOUNDARY LAYER CONVECTIVE HEAT TRANSFER WITH PRESSURE GRADIENT USING HOMOTOPY PERTURBATION METHOD (HPM) OVER A FLAT PLATE
Authors: Kashif Amber Nehan , Abdul Aziz Zainal , Salah Faisal , Viswanathan K. K.
Published: April 2018

Boundary layer flow of convective heat transfer with pressure gradient over a flat plate is solved with an application of algorithms of Adams Method (AM) and Gear Method (GM) using Homotopy Perturbation Method (HPM). The distributions of temperature and velocity in the boundary layer are examined, particularly on the influences due to Prandtl number (Pr) and pressure gradient (m). Consequently, the equations of momentum and energy are resolved concurrently. These HPM outcomes have been compared with the previous published work in the literature; and these are found to be in good agreement with the results obtained from numerical methods.
EFFECTS OF N-ACETYL-CYSTEINE SUPPLEMENTATION ON EX-VIVO CLONOGENICITY AND OXIDATIVE PROFILE OF LINEAGE-COMMITTED HEMATOPOIETIC STEM/PROGENITOR CELLS
Authors: Chin Yi Chan , Abd Hamid Zariyantey , Taib Izatus Shima , Hui Yee Tan , Wak Harto Muhd Khairul Akmal , Paik Wah Chow
Published: April 2018

Hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) are exposed to oxidative damage acquired during ex vivo expansion which affects their therapeutic potency. Efforts to overcome this limitation includes the use of antioxidants. The effects of N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) supplementation for 48 hours on maintenance of ex vivo HSPCs was investigated by examining the cell viability at concentrations of 0.125 µM, 0.25 µM, 0.5 µM, 1.0 µM and 2.0 µM, followed by clonogenicity and oxidative status assessments of lineage-committed progenitors (myeloid, erythroid and pre-B lymphoid) at selected NAC concentrations (0.25 µM, 0.5 µM, 2.0 µM). NAC supplementation significantly (p< 0.05) enhanced viability of HSPC at 0.25 µM, 0.5 µM, 2.0 µM.  The clonogenicity of each progenitor was not affected as no significant changes of Colony Forming Units (CFUs) counts was noted between NAC-supplemented group than control. NAC showed no significant effects on reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels of respective progenitors as compared to control. Conclusively, NAC shows potential property as antioxidant supplement for ex vivo maintenance of HSPCs by promoting survivability and maintaining clonogenicity.
EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE ON RHEOLOGY BEHAVIOUR OF BANANA PEEL PECTIN EXTRACTED USING HOT COMPRESSED WATER
Authors: Mohd Rasidek Noor Azwani , Mad Nordin Mariam Firdhaus , Yusoff Yus Aniza , Tokuyama Hideaki , Nagatsu Yuichiro
Published: April 2018

Banana peel pectin is extracted from banana peel waste using a hot compressed water extraction (140-160°C, 5 minutes, 1.18 mm particle size). Physicochemical contents of banana peel pectin were found to be in a similar range with commercial pectin, and is comprised of moisture (7.44-8.47%), ash (3.45-4.98%), protein (1.08-1.92%), fat (0.04-3.42), carbohydrate (83-86%), total sugar (1.77-3.41%), energy (353-369 kcal/100g) and specific heat (1.42-1.62 kJ/kg°C). These contents possibly related to their flow deformation of rheological behaviour. Regression analysis displayed good agreements in all models applied, apart from the Casson Model. Flow behaviour indices, n<1 and decreasing of apparent viscosity within increasing of shear rate indicates that banana peel pectin has excellent shear thinning behaviour with a presence of yield stress.
COMPARISON STUDY ON LIGHT STRUCTURE MODAL PARAMETER USING EXPERIMENTAL MODAL ANALYSIS METHOD VIA PIEZOFILM SENSOR
Authors: Ramli Mohd Irman , Nuawi Mohd. Zaki , Abdullah Shahrum , Mohammad Rasani Mohammad Rasidi , Boejang Hambali , Basar Mohd Farriz , Ko Seng Kho
Published: April 2018

This study determines the effect of modal parameters namely natural frequencies and mode shapes of aluminum 6061 (Al6061)through free dynamic vibration analysis and testing. The simulation procedures was conducted via ANSYS software while the experimental work was performed through impact hammer testing. Three types of specimens in the form  of circular, square and triangular- shapes were used to determine the vibration parameters. Two sensors i.e. piezoelectric film and accelerometer were used. The results for circular shape were ya = 270.55x – 134.82 (accelerometer) and yp = 280.89x – 215.05 (piezofilm);  for square shape were ya = 316.42x – 104.13 (accelerometer) and yp = 309.63x – 43.20 (piezofilm); and for triangular shape were ya = 329.77x – 142.87 (accelerometer) and yp = 305x + 15 (piezofilm). The ya (accelerometer) and yp (piezofilm) are represented as a linear equation of which the data were plotted in mode shape versus natural frequency graph accordingly. By applying the simultaneous equation, the regression ratio can be obtained. The relation between natural frequency and mode shape of accelerometer and piezofilm for the circular-shaped specimen was ya = 0.96yp + 72.3; square-shaped specimen was ya = 1.02yp – 59.98; and triangle-shaped specimen was ya = 1.08yp – 159.08 respectively. The results for the natural frequency from the experimental test were used to compare with the results from the simulation. It was understood that the regression ratios of 0.96, 1.02 and 1.08 of circular-shaped, square-shaped and triangular-shaped were closed to 1.0. The outcome showed that the piezoelectric film sensor is a potential candidate to be used as an alternative sensor for the accelerometer.
Controlled Evaluation of an Optimization Approach to Mental Health and Sport Performance
Authors: Donohue Brad , Gavrilova Yulia , Galante Marina , Gavrilova Elena , Loughran Travis , Scott Jesse , Chow Graig , Plant Christopher P. , Allen Daniel N.
Published: April 2018

Athletes experience unique stressors that have been indicated to compromise their mental wellness and sport performance, yet they underutilize mental health services. Indeed, very few mental health interventions for athletes have been developed to fit sport culture, and well-controlled mental health outcome research in athlete populations is warranted. In this randomized controlled trial, a sport specific optimization approach to concurrent mental health and sport performance (The Optimum Performance Program in Sports; TOPPS) was examined. Seventy-four collegiate athletes (NCAA = 42; club = 11; intramural = 21) formally assessed for mental health diagnostic severity were randomly assigned to TOPPS or campus counseling/psychological services as usual (SAU) after baseline. Dependent measures assessed general mental health, mood, mental health factors affecting sport performance in training, competition and life outside of sports, days using substances, sexual risk behaviors, happiness in relationships, relationships affecting sport performance, and contributions of relationship to sport performance. Intent to treat repeated measures analyses indicated that participants in TOPPS consistently demonstrated better outcomes than SAU up to 8-months post-randomization and for mental health/substance use measures, particularly when diagnostic criteria were most severe. Recommendations are provided in light of the results to assist sport-specific mental health intervention development and implementation within athlete populations.
Preschool Teachers’ Preparedness for Knowing, Enabling, and Meeting the Active Start Guidelines for Physical Activity
Authors: Brian Ali , Pennell Adam , Sacko Ryan , Schenkelburg Michaela
Published: April 2018

Most early childhood centers charge preschool teachers with delivering gross motor skill content and providing physical activity (PA) opportunities to children. Little is known regarding preschool teachers’ background and confidence and the extent to which centers meet the Active Start Guidelines (ASGs) for PA. Preschool teachers (N = 102) completed an exploratory survey and the Self-Perception Profile for Adults Athletic Competence subscale. Eighty-eight percent possessed no formal background in physical education (PE)/PA, while most teachers (77%) were not aware of the ASGs. Most participants (92%) reported that they do not provide daily, teacher-led PE/PA programming, and less than half (47%) provided at least 60 min of daily free play. Preschool teachers were found to have below average perceived motor competence. Recommendations are provided for preservice teacher training programs, policymakers, as well as professional development of in-service teachers.
Structural basis for the preference of the
Arabidopsis thaliana
phosphatase RLPH2 for tyrosine-phosphorylated substrates
Authors: Labandera Anne-Marie , Uhrig R. Glen , Colville Keaton , Moorhead Greg B. , Ng Kenneth K. S.
Published: April 2018

Structure-function studies show why the plant phosphatase RLPH2 prefers tyrosine-phosphorylated substrates.
Mutant and wild-type p53 form complexes with p73 upon phosphorylation by the kinase JNK
Authors: Wolf Eric R. , McAtarsney Ciarán P. , Bredhold Kristin E. , Kline Amber M. , Mayo Lindsey D.
Published: April 2018

Contrary to previous reports, wild-type p53 can interact with p73 to promote cell stress–induced apoptosis.
The Host Antimicrobial Protein Calgranulin C Participates in the Control of Campylobacter jejuni Growth via Zinc Sequestration
Authors: Shank Janette M. , Kelley Brittni R. , Jackson Joseph W. , Tweedie Jessica L. , Franklin Dana , Damo Steven M. , Gaddy Jennifer A. , Murphy Caitlin N. , Johnson Jeremiah G.
Published: April 2018

Campylobacter jejuni
is a leading cause of bacterially derived gastroenteritis worldwide.
Campylobacter
is most commonly acquired through the consumption of undercooked poultry meat or through drinking contaminated water. Following ingestion,
Campylobacter
adheres to the intestinal epithelium and mucus layer, causing toxin-mediated inflammation and inhibition of fluid reabsorption. Currently, the human response to infection is relatively unknown, and animal hosts that model these responses are rare. As such, we examined patient fecal samples for the accumulation of the neutrophil protein calgranulin C during infection with
Campylobacter jejuni
. In response to infection, calgranulin C was significantly increased in the feces of humans. To determine whether calgranulin C accumulation occurs in an animal model, we examined disease in ferrets. Ferrets were effectively infected by
C. jejuni
, with peak fecal loads observed at day 3 postinfection and full resolution by day 12. Serum levels of interleukin-10 (IL-10) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) significantly increased in response to infection, which resulted in leukocyte trafficking to the colon. As a result, calgranulin C increased in the feces of ferrets at the time when
C. jejuni
loads decreased. Further, the addition of purified calgranulin C to
C. jejuni
cultures was found to inhibit growth in a zinc-dependent manner. These results suggest that upon infection with
C. jejuni
, leukocytes trafficked to the intestine release calgranulin C as a mechanism for inhibiting
C. jejuni
growth.
Functional Relevance of the Transmembrane Domain and Cytoplasmic Tail of the Pseudorabies Virus Glycoprotein H for Membrane Fusion
Authors: Vallbracht Melina , Fuchs Walter , Klupp Barbara G. , Mettenleiter Thomas C.
Published: April 2018

Herpesvirus membrane fusion depends on the core fusion machinery, comprised of glycoproteins B (gB) and gH/gL. Although gB structurally resembles autonomous class III fusion proteins, it strictly depends on gH/gL to drive membrane fusion. Whether the gH/gL complex needs to be membrane anchored to fulfill its function and which role the gH cytoplasmic (CD) and transmembrane domains (TMD) play in fusion is unclear. While the gH CD and TMD play an important role during infection, soluble gH/gL of herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) seems to be sufficient to mediate cell-cell fusion in transient assays, arguing against an essential contribution of the CD and TMD. To shed more light on this apparent discrepancy, we investigated the role of the CD and TMD of the related alphaherpesvirus pseudorabies virus (PrV) gH. For this purpose, we expressed C-terminally truncated and soluble gH and replaced the TMD with a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (gpi) anchor. We also generated chimeras containing the TMD and/or CD of PrV gD or HSV-1 gH. Proteins were characterized in cell-based fusion assays and during virus infection. Although truncation of the CD resulted in decreased membrane fusion activity, the mutant proteins still supported replication of gH-negative PrV, indicating that the PrV gH CD is dispensable for viral replication. In contrast, PrV gH lacking the TMD, membrane-anchored via a lipid linker, or comprising the PrV gD TMD were nonfunctional, highlighting the essential role of the gH TMD for function. Interestingly, despite low sequence identity, the HSV-1 gH TMD could substitute for the PrV gH TMD, pointing to functional conservation.

IMPORTANCE
Enveloped viruses depend on membrane fusion for virus entry. While this process can be mediated by only one or two proteins, herpesviruses depend on the concerted action of at least three different glycoproteins. Although gB has features of bona fide fusion proteins, it depends on gH and its complex partner, gL, for fusion. Whether gH/gL prevents premature fusion or actively triggers gB-mediated fusion is unclear, and there are contradictory results on whether gH/gL function requires stable membrane anchorage or whether the ectodomains alone are sufficient. Our results show that in pseudorabies virus gH, the transmembrane anchor plays an essential role for gB-mediated fusion while the cytoplasmic tail is not strictly required.
Postpartum family planning integration with maternal, newborn and child health services: a cross-sectional analysis of client flow patterns in India and Kenya
Authors: Mackenzie Devon , Pfitzer Anne , Maly Christina , Waka Charles , Singh Gajendra , Sanyal Abanti
Published: April 2018

Objectives

Maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) services represent opportunities to integrate postpartum family planning (PPFP). Objectives were to determine levels of MNCH–family planning (FP) integration and associations between integration, client characteristics and service delivery factors in facilities that received programmatic PPFP support.

Design and setting

Cross-sectional client flow assessment conducted during May–July 2014, over 5 days at 10 purposively selected public sector facilities in India (4 hospitals) and Kenya (2 hospitals and 4 health centres).

Participants

2158 client visits tracked (1294 India; 864 Kenya). Women aged 18 or older accessing services while pregnant and/or with a child under 2 years.

Interventions

PPFP/postpartum intrauterine device—Bihar, India (2012–2013); Jharkhand, India (2009–2014); Embu, Kenya (2006–2010). Maternal, infant and young child nutrition/FP integration—Bondo, Kenya (2011–2014).

Primary outcome measures

Proportion of visits where clients received integrated MNCH–FP services, client characteristics as predictors of MNCH–FP integration and MNCH–FP integration as predictor of length of time spent at facility.

Results

Levels of MNCH–FP integration varied widely across facilities (5.3% to 63.0%), as did proportion of clients receiving MNCH–FP integrated services by service area. Clients travelling 30–59 min were half as likely to receive integrated services versus those travelling under 30 min (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.4 to 0.7, P<0.001). Clients receiving MNCH–FP services (vs MNCH services only) spent an average of 10.5 min longer at the facility (95% CI −0.1 to 21.9, not statistically significant).

Conclusions

Findings suggest importance of focused programmatic support for integration by MNCH service area. FP integration was highest in areas receiving specific support. Integration does not seem to impose an undue burden on clients in terms of time spent at the facility. Clients living furthest from facilities are least likely to receive integrated services.
Prevalence and determinants of unplanned pregnancy in HIV-positive and HIV-negative pregnant women in Cape Town, South Africa: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Iyun Victoria , Brittain Kirsty , Phillips Tamsin K , le Roux Stanzi , McIntyre James A , Zerbe Allison , Petro Greg , Abrams Elaine J , Myer Landon
Published: April 2018

Objectives

Prevention of unplanned pregnancy is a crucial aspect of preventing mother-to-child HIV transmission. There are few data investigating how HIV status and use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) may influence pregnancy planning in high HIV burden settings. Our objective was to examine the prevalence and determinants of unplanned pregnancy among HIV-positive and HIV-negative women in Cape Town, South Africa.

Design

Cross-sectional analysis.

Settings

Single primary-level antenatal care clinic in Cape Town, South Africa.

Participants

HIV-positive and HIV-negative pregnant women, booking for antenatal care from March 2013 to August 2015, were included.

Main outcome measures

Unplanned pregnancy was measured at the first antenatal care visit using the London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy (LMUP). Analyses examined LMUP scores across four groups of participants defined by their HIV status, awareness of their HIV status prior to the current pregnancy and/or whether they were using antiretroviral therapy (ART) prior to the current pregnancy.

Results

Among 2105 pregnant women (1512 HIV positive; 593 HIV negative), median age was 28 years, 43% were married/cohabiting and 20% were nulliparous. Levels of unplanned pregnancy were significantly higher in HIV-positive versus HIV-negative women (50% vs 33%, p<0.001); and highest in women who were known HIV positive but not on ART (53%). After adjusting for age, parity and marital status, unplanned pregnancy was most common among women newly diagnosed and women who were known HIV positive but not on ART (compared with HIV-negative women, adjusted OR (aOR): 1.43; 95% CI 1.05 to 1.94 and aOR: 1.57; 95% CI 1.13 to 2.15, respectively). Increased parity and younger age (<24 years) were also associated with unplanned pregnancy (aOR: 1.42; 95% CI 1.25 to 1.60 and aOR: 1.83; 95% CI 1.23 to 2.74, respectively).

Conclusions

We observed high levels of unplanned pregnancy among HIV-positive women, particularly among those not on ART, suggesting ongoing missed opportunities for improved family planning and counselling services for HIV-positive women.