bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecological drivers of song evolution in birds: Disentangling the effects of habitat and morphology
Authors: Derryberry Elizabeth Perrault , Seddon Nathalie , Derryberry Graham Earnest , Claramunt Santiago , Seeholzer Glenn Fairbanks , Brumfield Robb Thomas , Tobias Joseph Andrew
Published: January 2018

Environmental differences influence the evolutionary divergence of mating signals through selection acting either directly on signal transmission (“sensory drive”) or because morphological adaptation to different foraging niches causes divergence in “magic traits” associated with signal production, thus indirectly driving signal evolution. Sensory drive and magic traits both contribute to variation in signal structure, yet we have limited understanding of the relative role of these direct and indirect processes during signal evolution. Using phylogenetic analyses across 276 species of ovenbirds (Aves: Furnariidae), we compared the extent to which song evolution was related to the direct influence of habitat characteristics and the indirect effect of body size and beak size, two potential magic traits in birds. We find that indirect ecological selection, via diversification in putative magic traits, explains variation in temporal, spectral, and performance features of song. Body size influences song frequency, whereas beak size limits temporal and performance components of song. In comparison, direct ecological selection has weaker and more limited effects on song structure. Our results illustrate the importance of considering multiple deterministic processes in the evolution of mating signals.
Use of environmental sites by mule deer: a proxy for relative risk of chronic wasting disease exposure and transmission
Authors: Mejía‐Salazar María Fernanda , Waldner Cheryl L. , Hwang Yeen Ten , Bollinger Trent K.
Published: January 2018

Prions that cause chronic wasting disease (CWD) in cervids can remain infective for years outside the host. Infectious cervids shed prions for a long time, consequently depositing prions in frequently used areas. These environmental prions are important in CWD epidemiology. Unfortunately, effective tools for quantifying CWD prions in soil, water, and other environmental sources are not currently available. Our goal was to investigate relative differences in visits by mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus hemionus) to various environmental site types as an indicator of the relative risk of prion contamination and disease transmission. For this, we deployed a system of triggered‐by‐movement cameras at eight site types in a CWD‐endemic area in Saskatchewan, Canada. We first assessed whether the relative differences among site types in the frequency of visits by mule deer of any sex‐and‐age class, males, and females varied by season and site type. We then assessed whether the rate of behaviors with a high risk of environmental prion transmission (either contamination or acquisition) differed by season and site type. Finally, we assessed whether the intensity of visitation, based on the number of animals per picture, differed by season and site type. We found that grain sources and beds were key attractants for mule deer: (1) The greatest number of pictures with mule deer per camera‐day occurred at grain sources across all seasons, except in fawning, when beds were the most visited sites; (2) during pre‐rut and early gestation, mule deer visited grain sources at least twice as often as most other sites; (3) females were more likely to visit beds and grain sources, but there was no significant site preferences for males after accounting for season; (4) mule deer were most likely to be pictured contacting the environment at grain sources in early gestation; and (5) beds and grain sources were the most intensively visited sites. We also found that environmental contacts at waterholes were more frequent during spring. We discuss the potential importance of various sites in the transmission of CWD and how their modification could potentially reduce the risk of prion environmental exposure among mule deer.
Downhill shift of alpine plant assemblages under contemporary climate and land‐use changes
Authors: Bhatta Kuber Prasad , Grytnes John‐Arvid , Vetaas Ole Reidar
Published: January 2018

Compositional changes in Himalayan vegetation in response to the major drivers of biodiversity loss, climate change and land‐use change, are barely documented. We quantify temporal changes in the alpine vegetation of central Nepal and attribute these changes to temporally varying climatic and land‐use factors. We re‐surveyed the alpine vegetation of two locations within Langtang National Park, central Nepal, after 25 yr using 127 plots of 100 m2. Using ordination, regression, and weighted average regression and calibration techniques, we analyzed the changes in terms of species abundance, frequency, and elevational shift in relation to changing atmospheric temperature, precipitation, and livestock grazing. We found a significant increase in the frequency and relative abundance of the majority of species, which was significantly related to the temporal trends in climatic factors and grazing intensity. Out of 12 species with unimodal responses along the elevation gradient during both surveys, the optima of eight species decreased over the time period. The observed elevations of 62 out of 92 sample plots (hence, species composition) in 2014 were lower than the elevations calibrated from species composition and elevation of 1990, indicating an overall downward shift of species assemblages. However, an upward shift of assemblages was also observed at higher elevations. These results indicate that the observed temporal changes in alpine vegetation, largely contrasting the expected upslope shift of species due to climate warming, are driven most likely by interactions of contemporary climate and land‐use changes, especially reduced grazing. The complex interactions and feedback mechanisms between warmer winters, increased precipitation, reduced grazing pressure, and thereby altered species interactions most likely facilitated the downslope shift of alpine species assemblages. Climatic and land‐use responses of plant species assemblages should therefore be studied focusing on the potential interactions between both the climatic and the land‐use factors because such interactions and feedback mechanisms have potential to mask or modify the expected climatic or land‐use response of biodiversity.
Operator Based Two Loop Nonlinear Forced Vibration Control of a Flexible Plate
Authors: JIN GUANG , DENG MINGCONG , WAKITANI SHIN
Published: January 2018

A nonlinear forced vibration control method for a flexible plate with piezoelectric actuators is proposed in this paper. A model of a flexible plate, taking into account the hysteresis of the piezoelectric actuator, is given. In addition, the design of nonlinear control system is given by using the operator theory. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed nonlinear control system is confirmed by simulation and experimental results.
A High Immersive Telexistence System of the Moving Object with Full Circumference Image and Inertial Force Presentation
Authors: HAYAKAWA TATSUYA , YOSHIMURA DAIJIRO , SAITO MITSUYUKI , KOBAYASHI YASUHIDE , WAKITA WATARU
Published: January 2018

Currently, the remote control such as the bilateral control which enables transmitting the multimodal information has been studied. However, remote control has not been reached while perceiving the wind, gravity, and the condition of the ground on the moving object at the remote place. When it is possible to perceive the external force applied to the moving object, it is possible to perform an appropriate operation sensuously according to a remote place such as a slope or a gravel road. Therefore, we propose a high immersive telexistence system with head mounted display and the six‐axis motion base which enables transmitting the inertia and force information of the moving vehicle, and 360‐degree image of moving object's surroundings at real‐time.
New Drive Circuit for Reducing the Switching Current Ripples in Switched Reluctance Motors
Authors: ISHIKAWA HIROKI , IMAI TAKANORI , NAITOH HARUO
Published: January 2018

This paper proposes a new drive circuit for reducing the switching current ripples in a switched reluctance motor (SRM). The authors have already presented an instantaneous flat torque control for SRMs, and confirmed its effectiveness through experimental results. However, the switching current ripples also cause torque ripples, and therefore, the current ripples should be decreased to reduce the torque ripples even more. The proposed circuit with parallel capacitor can realize such a reduction. The validity of the proposed drive circuit is verified experimentally.
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in a young adult with transplanted heart: what happened to denervation?
Authors: Chinali Marcello , Formigari Roberto , Grutter Giorgia
Published: January 2018

This manuscript describes the first report of takotsubo cardiomyopathy in a young heart transplant recipient following angry debate. Our patient is a 21‐year‐old woman with cardiac transplant performed owing to right ventricular failure in congenital heart disease. Positive echocardiography with typical asymmetry of regional function, positive enzymes, and negative biopsy and angiography met the criteria for the diagnosis of takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Patient was discharged after 1 week in good clinical conditions and fully recovered cardiac function. The development of takotsubo cardiomyopathy in transplanted heart suggests that re‐innervation occurs, thus representing a target for catecholamine‐induced cardiac dysfunction.
Kbtbd2 inhibits the cytotoxic activity of immortalized NK cells through down‐regulating mTOR signaling in a mouse hepatocellular carcinoma model
Authors: Dai Kai , Huang Yabing , Chen Zubing , Sun Xiaomei , Yang Lihua , Jiang Yingan
Published: January 2018

Natural killer cell (NK cell)‐based immunotherapy is a promising therapeutic strategy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of NK cell function in the tumor sites are not completely elucidated. In this study, we identified the enhanced expression of kelch repeat and BTB (POZ) domain containing 2 (Kbtbd2) in intratumoral NK cells in a mouse HCC implantation model as a negative regulator of NK cells. To investigate this interaction, we used a Tet‐on inducible expression system to control Kbtbd2 expression in an immortalized mouse NK cell line KIL C.2. With this approach, we found that overexpression of Kbtbd2 reduced KIL C.2 cell proliferation, decreased expression certain of Ly49 receptor family members, and substantially impaired cytotoxic activity of KIL C.2 cells in vitro. Moreover, phosphorylation of mTOR and its target 4E‐binding protein 1 was reduced in Kbtbd2‐expressing KIL C.2 cells, along with down‐regulated phosphorylation of Erk1/2. Adoptively transferred Kbtbd2‐expressing KIL C.2 cells exhibited weaker tumoricidal effect on hepatocellular carcinoma cells in the HCC implantation model, in comparison with transferred control KIL C.2 cells. Taken together, our investigation indicates that Kbtbd2 is an inhibitory molecule for the tumoricidal activity of KIL C.2 cells and perhaps intratumoral NK cells.
Let the Celebrations Continue!
Authors: Vashi Preeti
Published: January 2018

Editor‐in‐Chief Preeti Vashi looks back on the events of 2017 and announces the changes in 2018 and the activities planned for EurJIC's twentieth anniversary celebrations.
Allogenic and autogenic effects on mangrove dynamics from the Ceará Mirim River, north‐eastern Brazil, during the middle and late Holocene
Authors: Ribeiro Samuel Rodrigues , Batista Edson José Louzada , Cohen Marcelo C.L. , França Marlon Carlos , Pessenda Luiz C.R. , Fontes Neuza A. , Alves Igor C.C. , Bendassolli José A.
Published: January 2018

It is possible that climate changes and sea level fluctuations (allogenic processes) are and will cause major changes in mangrove dynamics. However, other driving forces may be significantly affecting this system. Distinguishing allogenic and autogenic influence on mangroves is a challenging question, because mechanisms related to the natural dynamics of depositional environments (autogenic processes) have strong influences on the establishment and degradation of mangroves. Thus, impacts on mangroves caused by autogenic processes may be erroneously attributed to allogenic mechanisms. Therefore, it is imperative to identify the ‘fingerprint’ of global changes in modern mangrove dynamics. In order to characterize the influence of these forces on mangroves, this work has used geomorphology and vegetation maps integrated with sedimentological and palynological data, radiocarbon dating, as well as δ13C, δ15N and C/N from sedimentary organic matter. The inter‐proxy analyses reveal an estuarine influence with mangrove development along the Ceará Mirim River, north‐eastern Brazil, since ~6920 cal yr bp, after the post‐glacial sea level rise. Relative sea level (RSL) has been stable during the middle and late Holocene. Mangrove establishment along this fluvial valley begins at about 6920 cal yr bp, caused by the sea‐level stabilization, an allogenic influence. However, after its establishment, wetland dynamics were mainly controlled by autogenic factors, related to channel migrations, instead of allogenic process. Some influence of sea‐level and climate changes on mangrove dynamics in this estuarine channel have been weakened by more intense tidal channels activities. Therefore, the expansion and contraction of mangrove areas along the estuary of the Ceará Mirim River since 6920 cal yr bp has been mainly influenced by channel dynamics that regulate the accretion and erosion of mangrove substrates. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new weighting method for improving the WENO‐Z scheme
Authors: Liu Shengping , Shen Yiqing , Zeng Fangjun , Yu Ming
Published: January 2018

The calculation of the weight of each substencil is very important for a weighted essentially nonoscillatory (WENO) scheme to obtain high‐order accuracy in smooth regions and keep the essentially nonoscillatory property near discontinuities. The weighting function introduced in the WENO‐Z scheme provides a straightforward method to analyze the accuracy order in smooth regions. In this paper, we construct a new sixth‐order global smoothness indicator (GSI‐6) and a function about GSI‐6 and the local smoothness indicators (ISk) to calculate the weights. The analysis and numerical results show that, with the new weights, the scheme satisfies the sufficient condition for the fifth‐order convergence in smooth regions even at critical points. Meanwhile, it can also maintain low dissipation for discontinuous solutions due to relative large weights assigned to discontinuous substencils.
Cocaine and HIV‐1 Tat disrupt cholesterol homeostasis in astrocytes: Implications for HIV‐associated neurocognitive disorders in cocaine user patients
Authors: Cotto Bianca , Natarajaseenivasan Kalimuthusamy , Ferrero Kimberly , Wesley Leroy , Sayre Matthew , Langford Dianne
Published: January 2018

Cholesterol synthesis and clearance by astrocytes are tightly regulated to maintain constant levels within the brain. In this context, liver X receptors (LXRs) are the master regulators of cholesterol homeostasis in the central nervous system (CNS). Increasing levels of cholesterol in astrocytes trigger LXR activation leading to the transcription of target genes involved in cholesterol trafficking and efflux, including apolipoprotein E, cytochrome P450 enzymes, sterol regulatory binding protein, and several ATP‐binding cassette transporter proteins. The disturbance of LXR signaling in the brain can lead to significant dysfunctions in cholesterol homeostasis, and disruptions in this pathway have been implicated in numerous neurological diseases including Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease. HIV infection of the CNS in combination with cocaine use is associated with astrocyte and neuronal energy deficit and damage. We propose that dysregulation in CNS cholesterol metabolism may be involved in the progression of HIV‐associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) and in cocaine‐mediated neurocognitive impairments. We hypothesize that exposure of astrocytes to cocaine and the HIV protein Tat will disrupt LXR signaling. Alterations in these pathways will in turn, affect cholesterol bioavailability for neurons. Our data show that exposure of astrocytes to cocaine and HIV‐Tat significantly decreases LXRβ levels, downstream signaling and bioavailability of cholesterol. Taken together, these data uncover novel alterations in a bioenergetic pathway in astrocytes exposed to cocaine and the HIV protein Tat. Results from these studies point to a new pathway in the CNS that may contribute to HAND in HIV+ cocaine user individuals.
Exploring the advantages of multiband fMRI with simultaneous EEG to investigate coupling between gamma frequency neural activity and the BOLD response in humans
Authors: Uji Makoto , Wilson Ross , Francis Susan T. , Mullinger Karen J. , Mayhew Stephen D.
Published: January 2018

We established an optimal combination of EEG recording during sparse multiband (MB) fMRI that preserves high‐resolution, whole‐brain fMRI coverage while enabling broad‐band EEG recordings which are uncorrupted by MRI gradient artefacts (GAs). We first determined the safety of simultaneous EEG recording during MB fMRI. Application of MB factor = 4 produced <1°C peak heating of electrode/hardware during 20 min of GE‐EPI data acquisition. However, higher SAR sequences require specific safety testing, with greater heating observed using PCASL with MB factor = 4. Heating was greatest in the electrocardiogram channel, likely due to it possessing longest lead length. We investigated the effect of MB factor on the temporal signal‐to‐noise ratio for a range of GE‐EPI sequences (varying MB factor and temporal interval between slice acquisitions). We found that, for our experimental purpose, the optimal acquisition was achieved with MB factor = 3, 3mm isotropic voxels, and 33 slices providing whole head coverage. This sequence afforded a 2.25 s duration quiet period (without GAs) in every 3 s TR. Using this sequence, we demonstrated the ability to record gamma frequency (55–80 Hz) EEG oscillations, in response to right index finger abduction, that are usually obscured by GAs during continuous fMRI data acquisition. In this novel application of EEG‐MB fMRI to a motor task, we observed a positive correlation between gamma and BOLD responses in bilateral motor regions. These findings support and extend previous work regarding coupling between neural and hemodynamic measures of brain activity in humans and showcase the utility of EEG‐MB fMRI for future investigations.
Reproductive history, breast‐feeding and risk of triple negative breast cancer: The Breast Cancer Etiology in Minorities (BEM) study
Authors: John Esther M. , Hines Lisa M. , Phipps Amanda I. , Koo Jocelyn , Longacre Teri A. , Ingles Sue A. , Baumgartner Kathy B. , Slattery Martha L. , Wu Anna H.
Published: January 2018

Few risk factors have been identified for triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) which lacks expression of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). This more aggressive subtype disproportionately affects some racial/ethnic minorities and is associated with lower survival. We pooled data from three population‐based studies (558 TNBC and 5,111 controls) and examined associations of TNBC risk with reproductive history and breast‐feeding. We estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using multivariable logistic regression. For younger women, aged <50 years, TNBC risk was increased two‐fold for parous women who never breast‐fed compared to nulliparous women (OR = 2.02, 95% CI = 1.12–3.63). For younger parous women, longer duration of lifetime breast‐feeding was associated with a borderline reduced risk (≥24 vs. 0 months: OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.26–1.04, Ptrend = 0.06). Considering the joint effect of parity and breast‐feeding, risk was increased two‐fold for women with ≥3 full‐term pregnancies (FTPs) and no or short‐term (<12 months) breast‐feeding compared to women with 1–2 FTPs and breast‐feeding ≥12 months (OR = 2.56, 95% CI = 1.22–5.35). None of these associations were observed among older women (≥50 years). Differences in reproductive patterns possibly contribute to the ethnic differences in TNBC incidence. Among controls aged <50 years, the prevalence of no or short‐term breast‐feeding and ≥3 FTPs was highest for Hispanics (22%), followed by African Americans (18%), Asian Americans (15%) and non‐Hispanic whites (6%). Breast‐feeding is a modifiable behavioral factor that may lower TNBC risk and mitigate the effect of FTPs in women under age 50 years.
Occurrence and seasonal dynamics of metalimnetic Deep Chlorophyll Maximum (DCM) in a stratified meromictic tropical lake and its implications for zooplankton community distribution
Authors: Sanful Peter O. , Otu Megan K. , Kling Hedy , Hecky Robert. E.
Published: January 2018

Deep Chlorophyll Maxima (DCM) is an important feature of stratified lakes and oceans but very little is known about the phenomenon in tropical systems. Proximate factors accounting for DCM presence include light, thermal stratification and nutrients but biotic interactions such as zooplankton grazing can actively support DCM formation, structure and maintenance. We examined DCM characteristics in tropical Lake Bosumtwi at biweekly intervals between April and July of 2005 and 2006 and also assessed zooplankton herbivore interactions with the DCM. The onset and development of the seasonal DCM peak was based on stable water column, steep thermocline, availability of a nutricline and nutrient limitation in the epilimnion. Euphotic depth doubled during DCM formation and increasing transparency tripled DCM Chl a in the metalimnion just below the oxycline. DCM, however, disaggregated with seasonally induced deeper mixing. The range of variability in surface chlorophyll did not differ significantly between seasonal and aseasonal DCM period. There was about one‐fourth difference between mean surface and metalimnetic chlorophyll concentrations but this shift in resource location did not trigger a descent to deeper waters by herbivores. Herbivore grazing could not be linked to surface variations in water clarity and deep‐water irradiance needed for DCM formation and maintenance. DCM presence therefore was not enhanced by surface water grazing activities of zooplankton. This suppressed biotic influence indicated that DCM dynamics is driven by lake clarity, thermal and nutrient gradients which constitute key abiotic drivers. Direct consumption of the DCM by herbivorous zooplankton was not evident and the energy therein is possibly lost to the anoxic deep waters of the lake through sedimentation. The sinking organic matter could be returned to the pelagic food web via the microbial loop represented by bacteria, ciliates and heterotrophic/mixotrophic flagellates inhabiting the lake's deep layers.
Significance of circulatory DPP4 activity in metabolic diseases
Authors: Nargis Titli , Chakrabarti Partha
Published: January 2018

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), also known as CD26 is a type II transmembrane protein that is released from the cell membrane in a nonclassical secretory mechanism. This exopeptidase selectively degrades varieties of substrates including incretin hormones, growth factors, and cytokines. A significant detectable amount of DPP4 activity can be measured in plasma as well as in different tissues such as intestinal epithelium, vascular endothelium, lymphocytes, monocytes, kidney, liver, adipose, lung, thymus, spleen, prostate, etc. Enzymatically active circulatory DPP4 is shed from the plasma membrane via proteolytic cleavage, a process responsible for the enhanced plasma DPP4 levels and activity. Elevated circulatory DPP4 activity as well as levels has been found in wide spectrum of metabolic diseases including diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases. Moreover, recent preclinical studies have further expanded the repertoire for the usage of DPP4 inhibitors in the treatment of other metabolic diseases and in their consequent complications. In the present review we highlight the reason behind the elevated circulatory DPP4 levels in metabolic diseases with a focus on the tissue of origin. We also underscore the discrepancy of protein levels with enzyme activity of circulatory DPP4 in metabolic diseases. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(2):112–119, 2018
Pharmacokinetics of Rolapitant in Patients With Mild to Moderate Hepatic Impairment
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Zhi‐Yi , Arora Sujata , Lu Sharon , Kansra Vikram
Published: January 2018

Rolapitant is a selective and long‐acting neurokinin‐1 receptor antagonist approved in an oral formulation in combination with other antiemetic agents for the prevention of delayed chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting in adults. This was a phase 1 open‐label, parallel‐group pharmacokinetic and safety study of a single oral dose of 180 mg of rolapitant and its major active metabolite, M19, in subjects with mild and moderate hepatic impairment compared with healthy matched controls. Pharmacokinetics were assessed by a mixed‐model analysis of variance of log‐transformed values for maximum observed plasma concentration (Cmax), observed time at Cmax (tmax), area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) from time 0 to the time of the last quantifiable concentration (AUC0–t), and AUC from time 0 to 120 hours (AUC0–120), with hepatic group as a fixed effect. Mean rolapitant Cmax, AUC0–t, and AUC0–120 were similar in the mild hepatic impairment and healthy control groups. In subjects with moderate hepatic impairment, AUC0–t was similar and Cmax was 25% lower than in healthy controls. Mean M19 Cmax and AUC0–t were similar in the mild hepatic impairment group and healthy controls, but <20% lower in those with moderate hepatic impairment versus healthy controls. Fraction of unbound rolapitant was comparable in all groups for rolapitant and M19. Rolapitant was well tolerated in all groups, without serious adverse events. Pharmacokinetic differences between healthy subjects and those with mild or moderate hepatic impairment are unlikely to pose a safety risk and do not warrant predefined dosage adjustment in the presence of hepatic impairment.
Immobilization of glycerol dehydrogenase and NADH oxidase for enzymatic synthesis of 1,3‐dihydroxyacetone with in situ cofactor regeneration
Authors: Zhuang Meng‐Yao , Jiang Xiao‐Ping , Ling Xiao‐Min , Xu Meng‐Qiu , Zhu Yi‐Hao , Zhang Ye‐Wang
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Nicotinamide cofactor‐dependent oxidoreductases have been widely applied to the bioproduction of varieties of useful compounds. Efficient cofactor regeneration is often required for these oxidoreductase‐catalyzed reactions. Herein, enzymatic production of 1, 3‐dihydroxyacetone (DHA) via immobilized enzymes with in situ cofactor regeneration was reported.

RESULTS

Glycerol dehydrogenase (GDH) and NADH oxidase (Nox) were immobilized on two carriers: macroporous resin and epoxy functionalized magnetic nanoparticles (EFMN). Higher enzyme loading capacity and activity recovery were achieved on EFMN. A high immobilization yield of 90% and >70% recovery activity were obtained for both enzymes using EFMN as carriers. Besides, both immobilized enzymes showed enhanced pH stability and temperature tolerance. Co‐immobilized and mixed immobilized enzymes were evaluated for synthesis of DHA, and mixed immobilized enzymes showed higher catalytic rate. The mixed reaction system also was investigated in view of various operational factors. Under the optimal conditions, a high DHA concentration with mixed immobilized enzymes system can reach up to 3.5 mmol L–1, which was about four times higher than that without cofactor regeneration system.

CONCLUSION

The immobilized GDH and Nox on magnetic nanoparticles showed enhanced stabilities. A cofactor regeneration system with immobilized enzymes could be utilized for efficient production of DHA from inexpensive substrates. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparative assessment of five trials of universal HIV testing and treatment in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Perriat Delphine , Balzer Laura , Hayes Richard , Lockman Shahin , Walsh Fiona , Ayles Helen , Floyd Sian , Havlir Diane , Kamya Moses , Lebelonyane Refeletswe , Mills Lisa A , Okello Velephi , Petersen Maya , Pillay Deenan , Sabapathy Kalpana , Wirth Kathleen , Orne‐Gliemann Joanna , Dabis François ,   the Universal Test and Treat Trials Consortium (UTC)
Published: January 2018

Design

Universal voluntary HIV counselling and testing followed by prompt initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for all those diagnosed HIV‐infected (universal test and treat, UTT) is now a global health standard. However, its population‐level impact, feasibility and cost remain unknown. Five community‐based trials have been implemented in sub‐Saharan Africa to measure the effects of various UTT strategies at population level: BCPP/YaTsie in Botswana, MaxART in Swaziland, HPTN 071 (PopART) in South Africa and Zambia, SEARCH in Uganda and Kenya and ANRS 12249 TasP in South Africa. This report describes and contrasts the contexts, research methodologies, intervention packages, themes explored, evolution of study designs and interventions related to each of these five UTT trials.

Methods

We conducted a comparative assessment of the five trials using data extracted from study protocols and collected during baseline studies, with additional input from study investigators. We organized differences and commonalities across the trials in five categories: trial contexts, research designs, intervention packages, trial themes and adaptations.

Results

All performed in the context of generalized HIV epidemics, the trials highly differ in their social, demographic, economic, political and health systems settings. They share the common aim of assessing the impact of UTT on the HIV epidemic but differ in methodological aspects such as study design and eligibility criteria for trial populations. In addition to universal ART initiation, the trials deliver a wide range of biomedical, behavioural and structural interventions as part of their UTT strategies. The five studies explore common issues, including the uptake rates of the trial services and individual health outcomes. All trials have adapted since their initiation to the evolving political, economic and public health contexts, including adopting the successive national recommendations for ART initiation.

Conclusions

We found substantial commonalities but also differences between the five UTT trials in their design, conduct and multidisciplinary outputs. As empirical literature on how UTT may improve efficiency and quality of HIV care at population level is still scarce, this article provides a foundation for more collaborative research on UTT and supports evidence‐based decision making for HIV care in country and internationally.
Comparison of uninterrupted anticoagulation with dabigatran etexilate or warfarin in the periprocedural period for atrial fibrillation catheter ablation: Results of the Japanese subgroup of the RE‐CIRCUIT trial
Authors: Yoshida Yukihiko , Watarai Masato , Fujii Kenshi , Shimizu Wataru , Satomi Kazuhiro , Inden Yasuya , Murakami Yoshimasa , Murakami Masato , Iwasa Atsushi , Kimura Masaomi , Yamada Nobuko , Nakagawa Tomofumi , Nordaby Matias , Okumura Ken
Published: January 2018

Background

There are limited data on uninterrupted anticoagulation with direct oral anticoagulants during catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF), particularly in Japan. We planned a subgroup analysis of the RE‐CIRCUIT study, comparing the use of uninterrupted dabigatran therapy with warfarin therapy during catheter ablation among the Japanese subgroup and with that in the total population.

Methods

The RE‐CIRCUIT study utilized a prospective, randomized, open‐label, blinded endpoint design, and the primary endpoint was the incidence of major bleeding events (MBEs). Patients were randomized to uninterrupted dabigatran 150 mg twice daily or warfarin. In this study, we analyzed the results in Japanese patients.

Results

Of 704 enrolled patients in the study, 112 Japanese patients were randomized to dabigatran (n = 65) or warfarin (n = 47). MBEs were experienced by two patients: one in the dabigatran group (1.6%, cardiac tamponade) and one in the warfarin group (2.2%, groin hematoma) (risk difference vs warfarin −0.6%; 95% CI −5.8, 4.7). Within the Japanese subgroup, there were no thromboembolic events in both groups.

Conclusion

While not designed to show statistical difference between two treatment groups, our results from the Japanese subgroup supported those from the overall population. Furthermore, this study provided clinical information regarding MBE, especially cardiac tamponade, in Japanese patients.
Cover Image, Volume 98, Issue 3
Authors: Ogawa Elizângela M , Costa Helber B , Ventura José A , Caetano Luiz CS , Pinto Fernanda E , Oliveira Bruno G , Barroso Maria Eduarda S , Scherer Rodrigo , Endringer Denise C , Romão Wanderson
Published: January 2018

The cover image, by Elizângela M Ogawa et al., is based on the Research Article Chemical profile of pineapple cv. Vitória in different maturation stages using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.8561. Image Credit: José A Ventura.

image
Postneoadjuvant adjuvant chemotherapy in resected N1 non‐small cell lung cancer with residual nodal disease
Authors: Smithy James W. , Rosen Joshua E. , Gao Sarah J. , Kim Anthony W.
Published: January 2018

Background and Objectives

Nodal positivity following neoadjuvant chemotherapy in locally advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is considered a poor prognostic sign, but little data are available on the efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy in these cases. This analysis sought to determine whether adjuvant chemotherapy was associated with increased survival in NSCLC patients with residual N1 disease at resection.

Methods

Patients from the National Cancer Database (NCDB) with cN1T1‐2M0 NSCLC treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and definitive resection between 2006 and 2012 were identified. Treatment groups were defined as those receiving no additional therapy or adjuvant chemotherapy ± radiation after resection. Five‐year overall survival (OS) was estimated for each group. Cox proportional hazard regression was used to estimate hazard ratios adjusting for demographic, clinical, and facility characteristics.

Results

Among 90 eligible patients, 5‐year OS was 43% and 56% for patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy and no additional treatment, respectively (P < 0.56). With multivariable analysis, the estimated hazard ratio was 0.61 (95% CI: 0.61‐2.64, P = 0.51) for adjuvant chemotherapy compared to no additional therapy.

Conclusion

This analysis suggests that adjuvant chemotherapy is not associated with increased survival in NSCLC patients with pathologic N1 NSCLC following neoadjuvant chemotherapy and resection.
Cyclodextrin‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction for the preconcentration of carbamazepine and clobazam with subsequent sweeping micellar electrokinetic chromatography
Authors: Chen Szu‐Ying , Chen Wen‐Chi , Chang Sarah Y.
Published: January 2018

A new version of dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, namely, cyclodextrin‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, with subsequent sweeping micellar electrokinetic chromatography has been developed for the preconcentration and sensitive detection of carbamazepine and clobazam. α‐Cyclodextrin and chloroform were used as the dispersive agent and extraction solvent, respectively. After the extraction, carbamazepine and clobazam were analyzed using micellar electrokinetic chromatography with ultraviolet detection. The detection sensitivity was further enhanced using the sweeping technique. Under optimal extraction and stacking conditions, the calibration curves of carbamazepine and clobazam were linear over a concentration range of 2.0–200.0 ng/mL. The method detection limits at a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 3 were 0.6 and 0.5 ng/mL with sensitivity enhancement factors of 3575 and 4675 for carbamazepine and clobazam, respectively. This developed method demonstrated high sensitivity enhancement factors and was successfully applied to the determination of carbamazepine and clobazam in human urine samples. The precision and accuracy for urine samples were less than 4.2 and 6.9%, respectively.
Separation of three polar compounds from Rheum tanguticum by high‐speed countercurrent chromatography with an ethyl acetate/glacial acetic acid/water system
Authors: Chen Tao , Wang Ping , Wang Nana , Sun Chongyang , Yang Xue , Li Hongmei , Zhou Guoying , Li Yulin
Published: January 2018

The separation of polar compounds by high‐speed countercurrent chromatography is still regarded as a challenge. In this study, an efficient strategy for the separation of three polar compounds from Rheum tanguticum has been successfully conducted by using high‐speed countercurrent chromatography. X‐5 macroporous resin chromatography was used for the fast enrichment of the target compounds. Then, the target fraction was directly introduced into high‐speed countercurrent chromatography for separation using ethyl acetate/glacial acetic acid/water (100:1:100, v/v/v) as the solvent system. Consequently, three polar compounds including gallic acid, catechin, and gallic acid 4‐O‐β‐d‐(6′‐O‐galloyl) glucoside were obtained with purities higher than 98%. The results showed glacial acetic acid could be such an appropriate regulator for the ethyl acetate/water system. This study provides a reference for the separation of polar compounds from natural products by high‐speed countercurrent chromatography.
Metal–organic framework based in‐syringe solid‐phase extraction for the on‐site sampling of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from environmental water samples
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqiong , Wang Peiyi , Han Qiang , Li Hengzhen , Wang Tong , Ding Mingyu
Published: January 2018

In‐syringe solid‐phase extraction is a promising sample pretreatment method for the on‐site sampling of water samples because of its outstanding advantages of portability, simple operation, short extraction time, and low cost. In this work, a novel in‐syringe solid‐phase extraction device using metal–organic frameworks as the adsorbent was fabricated for the on‐site sampling of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons from environmental waters. Trace polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons were effectively extracted through the self‐made device followed by gas chromatography with mass spectrometry analysis. Owing to the excellent adsorption performance of metal–organic frameworks, the analytes could be completely adsorbed during one adsorption cycle, thus effectively shortening the extraction time. Moreover, the adsorbed analytes could remain stable on the device for at least 7 days, revealing the potential of the self‐made device for on‐site sampling of degradable compounds in remote regions. The limit of detection ranged from 0.20 to 1.9 ng/L under the optimum conditions. Satisfactory recoveries varying from 84.4 to 104.5% and relative standard deviations below 9.7% were obtained in real samples analysis. The results of this study promote the application of metal–organic frameworks in sample preparation and demonstrate the great potential of in‐syringe solid‐phase extraction for the on‐site sampling of trace contaminants in environmental waters.
Validity evidence as a key marker of quality of technical skill assessment in OTL–HNS
Authors: Labbé Mathilde , Young Meredith , Nguyen Lily H.P.
Published: January 2018

Objective

Quality monitoring of assessment practices should be a priority in all residency programs. Validity evidence is one of the main hallmarks of assessment quality and should be collected to support the interpretation and use of assessment data. Our objective was to identify, synthesize, and present the validity evidence reported supporting different technical skill assessment tools in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery (OTL–HNS).

Methods

We performed a secondary analysis of data generated through a systematic review of all published tools for assessing technical skills in OTL–HNS (n = 16). For each tool, we coded validity evidence according to the five types of evidence described by the American Educational Research Association's interpretation of Messick's validity framework. Descriptive statistical analyses were conducted.

Results

All 16 tools included in our analysis were supported by internal structure and relationship to variables validity evidence. Eleven articles presented evidence supporting content. Response process was discussed only in one article, and no study reported on evidence exploring consequences.

Conclusion

We present the validity evidence reported for 16 rater‐based tools that could be used for work‐based assessment of OTL–HNS residents in the operating room. The articles included in our review were consistently deficient in evidence for response process and consequences. Rater‐based assessment tools that support high‐stakes decisions that impact the learner and programs should include several sources of validity evidence. Thus, use of any assessment should be done with careful consideration of the context‐specific validity evidence supporting score interpretation, and we encourage deliberate continual assessment quality‐monitoring.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 128:2296–2300, 2018
Insulin resistance and the increased risk for smell dysfunction in US adults
Authors: Min Jin‐Young , Min Kyoung‐Bok
Published: January 2018

Objective

Over 24% of older American adults (approximately 14 million) are estimated to have reduced olfactory sensitivity. Previous studies have provided evidence that patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) or its complications are at increased risk of olfactory dysfunction. We therefore investigated whether smell dysfunction was associated with DM‐related biomarkers, including fasting blood glucose, glycohemoglobin, serum insulin, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin sensitivity (HOMA‐IR), in older US adults.

Methods

Data from 9,678 older adults who had participated in the 2013 to 2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were available for this study. We used the eight‐item, self‐administered scratch‐and‐sniff smell test (Sensonics, Inc., Haddon Heights, NJ) for assessing smell. Smell dysfunction was defined as the condition with an odor identification score of ≤ 5.

Results

Of the 978 participants, 20% of older adults (n = 193) were defined as having smell dysfunction. After adjustment for potential confounding variables, participants in the highest HOMA‐IR quintile had approximately two‐fold increased odds (odds ratio = 2.25; 95% confidence interval: 1.25–4.05) of smell dysfunction compared with those in the lowest HOMA‐IR quintile. In contrast, the odds of smell dysfunction were not associated with the quintiles for fasting blood glucose, glycohemoglobin (HbA1c), or serum insulin levels.

Conclusion

We found a significant association between smell dysfunction and severe insulin resistance in older US adults. Our data suggests that insulin resistance may be mechanistically linked to loss of smell function.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:1992–1996, 2018
Cylinder Lenses for Beam Shaping
Authors: Adams Daniel
Published: January 2018

In the modern world, lasers are a critical part of so many new technologies. Fields like manufacturing, measurement, medical treatments and scientific research and many more all depend on lasers. The quality of the beam in all of these application areas is crucial and can often be the difference between success and failure. Cylinder lenses are commonly used to shape and manipulate a laser beam and any errors or aberrations they introduce will have a direct impact on the beam quality. Manufacturing methods for cylinder lenses differ from traditional spherical optics and because of this, there are additional specifications to be aware of and consider when using them. Without properly specifying and controlling these parameters problems such as uneven line thickness, beam deviation and image rotation can reduce system performance. This article will line out the unique specifications of cylinder lenses that need to be considered in the process of system integration and their potential effect on the performance (Fig. 1).
An appraisal framework of the determinants and consequences of brand happiness
Authors: Schnebelen Stefanie , Bruhn Manfred
Published: January 2018

Recent academic discussions about the concept of brand happiness have introduced brand happiness as a promising new branding asset and a key research area. There is scientific evidence that its strong desirability, its characteristic of greatest emotional fulfillment, and its superior power to influence brand behavior qualify brand happiness as an important brand goal and differentiate it from other emotional‐relational concepts (e.g., emotional brand attachment, customer delight). However, there is no evidence on the effectiveness of brand happiness. To provide essential new insights in this research field, the authors theoretically develop an appraisal framework of the determinants and consequences of brand happiness and empirically verify it in four industry sectors. On the cross‐industry level, brand relationship quality, brand self‐relevance, brand goal‐congruence, and actual and ideal brand self‐congruence are confirmed to be important brand appraisal determinants of brand happiness, and pleasantness, fairness, and certainty are confirmed to be important situational appraisal determinants of brand happiness. The behavioral power of brand happiness was supported by showing that brand happiness strongly predicts five coping strategies; namely, the problem‐focused coping strategies of (re‐)purchase intention and price premium, and the emotion‐focused coping strategies of word‐of‐mouth, brand evangelism, and brand forgiveness. On an industry‐specific level, differences are observed regarding the influence of some of the brand appraisal determinants on brand happiness and regarding the influence of some of the situational appraisal determinants on brand happiness across the four analyzed industry sectors.
Effective thermal properties of an isotactic polypropylene (α‐iPP) injection moulded part by a multiscale approach
Authors: Laschet G. , Apel M. , Wipperfürth J. , Hopmann C. , Spekowius M. , Spina R.
Published: January 2018

In injection moulding processes, the melt undergoes a complex deformation and cooling history, which results in an inhomogeneous distribution of crystalline superstructures in semi‐crystalline thermoplastics, which significantly influences their final mechanical and thermal properties. In this paper we describe the determination of local effective thermal properties of a moulded part via a multiscale simulation approach. First a macroscopic filling and heat transfer simulation is performed followed by a microstructure evolution calculation on the micro‐scale. Then, the effective thermal properties are derived via a two‐level homogenization scheme. The results show that the effective thermal conductivity is anisotropic and that it varies asymmetrically over the analysed plate sections.