bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New species of Hyphessobrycon from the Rio Teles Pires, Rio Tapajós basin, Brazil (Ostariophysi, Characiformes)
Authors: Carvalho F. R. , Cabeceira F. G. , Carvalho L. N.
Published: August 2017

A new species of Hyphessobrycon from the upper Rio Tapajós basin, in the Tapajós–Juruena ecoregion, is described. Hyphessobrycon pinnistriatus n. sp. is distinguished from its congeners by having a black, oblique stripe extending from the origin of the second branched ray to the distal end of the third branched anal‐fin ray, lacking a conspicuous black midlateral stripe on the body, inner premaxillary teeth with up to seven cusps, and fins normally hyaline or with scattered chromatophores. The description of a new species that is restricted to the Tapajós–Juruena ecoregion is consistent with this region being an area of high endemism of freshwater fishes.
The construct of maternal positivity in mothers of children with intellectual disability
Authors: Jess M. , Hastings R. P. , Totsika V.
Published: August 2017

Background

Despite the elevated levels of stress, anxiety and depression reported by mothers of children with intellectual disabilities (ID), these mothers also experience positive well‐being and describe positive perceptions of their child. To date, maternal positivity has been operationalised in different ways by using a variety of measures. In the present study, we tested whether a latent construct of maternal positivity could be derived from different measures of positivity.

Method

One hundred and thirty‐five mothers of 89 boys and 46 girls with ID between 3 and 18 years of age completed measures on parental self‐efficacy, their satisfaction with life, family satisfaction, their positive affect and their positive perceptions of their child with ID. We conducted a confirmatory factor analysis of latent positivity and subsequently tested its association with child social skills and behaviour problems, and maternal mental health.

Results

A latent maternal positivity factor achieved a statistically good fit by using the five observed indicators of positivity. Parental self‐efficacy had the strongest loading on the latent factor. Maternal positivity was significantly negatively associated with maternal psychological distress, maternal stress and child problem behaviours and positively associated with child positive social behaviour.

Conclusions

These findings lend support to the importance of examining parental positivity in families raising a child with ID, and using multiple indicators of positivity. Associations with negative psychological outcomes suggest that interventions focused on increasing parental positivity may have beneficial effects for parents. Further research is needed, especially in relation to such interventions.
Relating appendicular skeletal variation of sigmodontine rodents to locomotion modes in a phylogenetic context
Authors: Carvalho Coutinho Ludmilla , Alves de Oliveira João
Published: August 2017

Sigmodontinae rodents constitute the second‐largest subfamily among mammals. Alongside the taxonomic diversity, they are also ecologically diverse, exhibiting a wide array of locomotion modes, with semifossorial, terrestrial, semiaquatic, scansorial, arboreal, and saltatorial forms. To understand the ecomorphologic aspects that allow these rodents to display such locomotion diversity, we analyzed 35 qualitative characters of the appendicular skeleton (humerus, ulna, radius, scapula, femur, tibia, ilium, ischium and pubis) in 795 specimens belonging to 64 species, 34 genera and 10 tribes, representing all locomotion modes assigned to this subfamily. We performed a statistical analysis based upon the coefficient of trait differentiation to test the congruence of character states and the different locomotion modes. We also mapped characters states in a molecular phylogeny in order to reconstruct ancestral states and to evaluate how appendicular characters evolved within main lineages of Sigmodontinae radiation under a phylogenetic framework. The statistical analyses revealed six characters related to specific locomotion modes, except terrestrial. The mapping and parsimony ancestral states reconstruction identified two characters with phylogenetical signal and eight characters that are exclusively or more frequently recorded in certain modes of locomotion, four of them also detected by the statistical analysis. Notwithstanding the documented morphological variation, few changes characterize the transition to each of the locomotion modes, at least regarding the appendicular skeleton. This finding corroborates previous results that showed that sigmodontines exhibit an all‐purpose appendicular morphology that allows them to use and explore a great variety of habitats.
Archosauriform endocranial morphology and osteological evidence for semiaquatic sensory adaptations in phytosaurs
Authors: Lessner Emily J. , Stocker Michelle R.
Published: August 2017

The examination of endocranial data of archosauriforms has led to advances on the evolution of body size, nerve pathways, and sensory abilities. However, much of that research has focused on bird‐line archosaurs, resulting in a skewed view of Archosauria. Phytosauria, a hypothesized sister taxon to or early‐branching member of Archosauria, provides a potential outgroup condition. Most previous phytosaur endocranial studies were executed without the use of modern technology and focused on derived members of Phytosauria. We present a comparative CT examination of the internal cranial anatomy of Wannia scurriensis, the most basal known parasuchid phytosaur. Wannia scurriensis shows some overall similarity with extant crocodylians and derived phytosaurs in general endocranial shape, a large hypophyseal fossa, and trigeminal (CN V) innervation, but as a whole, the endocast has noticeable differences to crocodylians and other phytosaurs. The pineal region is expanded dorsally as in other phytosaurs but also laterally (previously unrecognized). CN V exits the pons in a more dorsal position than in Parasuchus hislopi, Machaeroprosopus mccauleyi, or Smilosuchus gregorii. Wannia scurriensis also exhibits a larger hypophyseal fossa relative to brain size than observed in P. hislopi or S. gregorii, which may indicate more rapid growth. The well‐preserved semicircular canals have lateral canals that are angled more anteroventrally than in derived phytosaurs. Extensive facial innervation from the large CN V indicates increased rostrum sensitivity and mechanoreceptive abilities as in Alligator mississippiensis. These endocranial similarities among phytosaurs and with Alligator indicate conserved ecological and functional results of an aquatic lifestyle, and highlight a need for further exploration of endocranial anatomy among Archosauriformes.
Patient interest in and familiarity with anti‐aging therapies: A survey of the general dermatology clinic population
Authors: Darland Allison M , Chubb Heather A , Sachs Dana L , Helfrich Yolanda R
Published: August 2017

Background

The appearance of aging skin is a common complaint among dermatology patients. There is an expanding market for anti‐aging therapies, but little information is available regarding which patients utilize these treatments and patient preferences regarding treatment.

Aims

To describe the patient population utilizing anti‐aging therapies, assess patient familiarity with treatment options, and learn where treatment information is most often obtained.

Patients/Methods

Three hundred patients were surveyed in the University of Michigan General Dermatology Clinic.

Results

Fifty‐three percent of the general dermatology patient population has used an anti‐aging treatment in the past; 66% reported interest in the future use. Interest is high among all genders, ages, and incomes. Most subjects obtained treatment information from magazines, but subjects were more likely to pursue treatment if information was obtained from a dermatologist.

Conclusion

Demographics of anti‐aging therapy are changing, and a wide variety of patients pursue treatment. Patients are largely unfamiliar with most treatment options and are more likely to pursue treatment after receiving treatment information from a dermatologist. The information presented in this study is helpful to both dermatologists and marketers of anti‐aging products.
The ‘Reasonable Man’, his Nineteenth‐century ‘Siblings’, and their Legacy
Authors: Dent Chris
Published: August 2017

The reasonable man is the best known, but not the only, legal construct to be born into the nineteenth‐century common law. This article introduces the man's siblings – including those from the areas of trust law, criminal law, contract law, and intellectual property law (both patents and trademarks). The fact that some of these ‘men’ changed the law is not controversial; this research further highlights that while several of these came to life in that century, only some had a significant role into the twentieth century. Those that did are tied to the foundations of our society through their role in facilitating innovation and consumer protection. The argument is that it was the constructs’ nature and their capacity to accommodate public policy issues that enabled the vitality of the ‘reasonable person ‘ (negligence) and the ‘person skilled in the art’ (patents).
Immune response of patients with recurrent aphthous stomatitis challenged with a symbiotic
Authors: Mimura Maria Angela Martins , Borra Ricardo Carneiro , Hirata Cleonice Hitomi Watashi , de Oliveira Penido Norma
Published: August 2017

Background

There are indications that Th1 polarization of immune response plays an important role in the pathogenesis of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), and that the use of probiotics can stimulate immune regulatory activity, influencing the course of the disease. The aim of this study was to characterize the initial immune profile of RAS patients and evaluate clinical and serological response following a challenge with symbiotic treatment containing fructooligosaccharide, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium.

Methods

The immune responses of the 45 patients with RAS, submitted to symbiotic or placebo for 120 days, in relation to 30 RAS‐free controls, were evaluated over a period of 6 months. Peripheral blood was collected from all patients at 0 (T0), 120 (T4), and 180 days (T6) after the start of treatment and Th1 (IL12‐p70, IFN‐γ), Th2 (IL‐4), Treg (IL‐10), Th17 (IL‐17A), inflammatory (TNF‐α, IL‐6)‐associated cytokines, and clinical parameters were quantified.

Results

At T0, significant differences were found in the serological levels of the IFN‐γ, IL‐4, and IL‐6 cytokines of the RAS patients in comparison with the controls. It was observed that the cytokine profile of the RAS group was comprised of 2 distinct clusters: a pure Th2 and a Mixed (Th1/Th2) subtype and that symbiotic treatment induced an improvement in pain and an increase in IFN‐γ levels, producing a reduction in Th2 response.

Conclusions

In RAS, symbiotic treatment based on a fructooligosaccharide, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium composition produced an alteration in the Th2 serological immune profile in the direction of Th1 and improved pain symptomatology.
Genistein exerts potent antitumour effects alongside anaesthetic, propofol, by suppressing cell proliferation and nuclear factor-κB-mediated signalling and through upregulating microRNA-218 expression in an intracranial rat brain tumour model
Authors: Zheng Yuzhen , Liu Haigen , Liang Yu
Published: August 2017

Objective

This study was implemented to evaluate the effect of genistein and propofol on intracranial tumour model.

Methods

Male Fischer 344 rats were subjected to intracranial implantation of 9L gliosarcoma cells. Genistein (100 or 200 mg/kg b.wt) was administered orally regularly from 3rd day after implantation to 25th day. Propofol (20 mg/kg; i.p.) was administered once every 5 days till 25th day and was administered 2 h after genistein.

Key findings

Human gliosarcoma cells (U251) exposed to genistein (12.5–200 μg) for 24 h exhibited reduced cell viability as assessed by MTT assay and Hoechst staining. In intracranial tumour model, genistein treatment either with or without administration of propofol significantly reduced tumour volume and extended survival time of tumour-bearing rats. Genistein, either alone or with propofol upregulated pro-apoptotic proteins (Bad and Bax) and miRNA-218 expression and also had induced activation of cleaved caspase-3. Activated NF-κB signalling and overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) were reduced.

Conclusions

Genistein and propofol effectively inhibited growth of gliosarcoma cells and induced apoptosis. Genistein administration with propofol was found to be more effective than propofol or genistein alone suggesting the positive effects of genistein on propofol-mediated antitumour effects and vice versa.
Maternal administration of melatonin exerts short‐ and long‐term neuroprotective effects on the offspring from lipopolysaccharide‐treated mice
Authors: Domínguez Rubio Ana Paula , Correa Fernando , Aisemberg Julieta , Dorfman Damián , Bariani María Victoria , Rosenstein Ruth Estela , Zorrilla Zubilete María , Franchi Ana María
Published: August 2017

Preterm birth is a major contributor to early and delayed physical and cognitive impairment. Epidemiological and experimental data indicate that maternal infections are a significant and preventable cause of preterm birth. Recently, melatonin has been suggested to exert neuroprotective effects in several models of brain injury. Here, we sought to investigate whether the administration of melatonin is able to prevent lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced fetal brain damage in a model of LPS‐induced preterm labor. For this purpose, 15‐day pregnant BALB/c mice received intraperitoneally 2 doses of LPS or vehicle: the first one at 10:00 hours (0.26 mg/kg) and the second at 13:00 hours (0.52 mg/kg). On day 14 of pregnancy, a group of mice was subcutaneously implanted with a pellet of 25 mg melatonin. This experimental protocol resulted in 100% of preterm birth and pup death in the LPS group and a 50% of term birth and pup survival in the melatonin + LPS group. In the absence of melatonin, fetuses from LPS‐treated mothers showed histological signs of brain damage, microglial/macrophage activation, and higher levels of IL‐1β, inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS), and neuronal NOS mRNAs as well as increased histone acetyltransferase activity and histone H3 hyperacetylation. In contrast, antenatal administration of melatonin prevented LPS‐induced fetal brain damage. Moreover, when behavioral traits were analyzed in the offspring from control, melatonin, and melatonin + LPS, no significant differences were found, suggesting that melatonin prevented LPS‐induced long‐term neurodevelopmental impairments. Collectively, our results suggest that melatonin could be a new therapeutic tool to prevent fetal brain damage and its long‐term consequences induced by maternal inflammation.
Melatonin ameliorates hypoglycemic stress‐induced brain endothelial tight junction injury by inhibiting protein nitration of TP53‐induced glycolysis and apoptosis regulator
Authors: Wang Cheng‐kun , Ahmed Muhammad Masood , Jiang Quan , Lu Nan‐nan , Tan Chao , Gao Yin‐ping , Mahmood Qaisar , Chen Dan‐yang , Fukunaga Kohji , Li Mei , Chen Zhong , Wilcox Christopher S. , Lu Ying‐mei , Qin Zheng‐hong , Han Feng
Published: August 2017

Severe hypoglycemia has a detrimental impact on the cerebrovasculature, but the molecular events that lead to the disruption of the integrity of the tight junctions remain unclear. Here, we report that the microvessel integrity was dramatically compromised (59.41% of wild‐type mice) in TP53‐induced glycolysis and apoptosis regulator (TIGAR) transgenic mice stressed by hypoglycemia. Melatonin, a potent antioxidant, protects against hypoglycemic stress‐induced brain endothelial tight junction injury in the dosage of 400 nmol/L in vitro. FRET (fluorescence resonance energy transfer) imaging data of endothelial cells stressed by low glucose revealed that TIGAR couples with calmodulin to promote TIGAR tyrosine nitration. A tyrosine 92 mutation interferes with the TIGAR‐dependent NADPH generation (55.60% decreased) and abolishes its protective effect on tight junctions in human brain microvascular endothelial cells. We further demonstrate that the low‐glucose‐induced disruption of occludin and Caludin5 as well as activation of autophagy was abrogated by melatonin‐mediated blockade of nitrosative stress in vitro. Collectively, we provide information on the detailed molecular mechanisms for the protective actions of melatonin on brain endothelial tight junctions and suggest that this indole has translational potential for severe hypoglycemia‐induced neurovascular damage.
Universal Citizenship Through the Discourse and Policy of Rafael Correa
Authors: Pugh Jeffrey D.
Published: August 2017

This article investigates political opportunities and constraints associated with incorporating the concept of universal citizenship into migration debates. Analyzing the speeches of Ecuador's president Rafael Correa over eight years, the article argues that Correa strategically crafted a narrative of universal citizenship to undergird politically beneficial policies. Political constraints from constituents and rivals, and the populist nature of his governing style, hollowed out progressive migration policy innovations to the point that universal citizenship became a rhetorical device more than a substantive policy agenda. Through this empirical case, the article develops a more nuanced critical understanding of universal citizenship discourses as sites for negotiating the relationship between states and migrants.
Genomic variation across two barn swallow hybrid zones reveals traits associated with divergence in sympatry and allopatry
Authors: Scordato Elizabeth S. C. , Wilkins Matthew R. , Semenov Georgy , Rubtsov Alexander S. , Kane Nolan C. , Safran Rebecca J.
Published: August 2017

Hybrid zones are geographic regions where isolating barriers between divergent populations are challenged by admixture. Identifying factors that facilitate or inhibit hybridization in sympatry can illuminate the processes that maintain those reproductive barriers. We analysed patterns of hybridization and phenotypic variation across two newly discovered hybrid zones between three subspecies of barn swallow (Hirundo rustica). These subspecies differ in ventral coloration and wing length, traits that are targets of sexual and natural selection, respectively, and are associated with genome‐wide differentiation in allopatry. We tested the hypothesis that the degree of divergence in these traits is associated with the extent of hybridization in secondary contact. We applied measures of population structure based on >23,000SNPs to confirm that named subspecies correspond to distinct genomic clusters, and assessed coincidence between geographic clines for ancestry and phenotype. Although gene flow was ongoing across both hybrid zones and pairwiseFSTbetween subspecies was extremely low, we found striking differences in the extent of hybridization. In the more phenotypically differentiated subspecies pair, clines for ancestry, wing length and ventral coloration were steep and coincident, suggestive of strong isolation and, potentially, selection associated with phenotype. In the less phenotypically differentiated pair, gene flow and phenotypic variation occurred over a wide geographic span, indicative of weaker isolation. Traits associated with genome‐wide differentiation in allopatry may thus also contribute to isolation in sympatry. We discuss potentially important additional roles for evolutionary history and ecology in shaping variation in the extent hybridization between closely related pairs of subspecies.
Pediatric liver transplant patients’ transition to adulthood: Patient and parent experiences
Authors: Sarigol Ordin Yaprak , Karayurt Özgül , Ünek Tarkan , Astarcıoğlu İbrahim
Published: August 2017

This qualitative research study describes the experiences of child and adolescent liver transplant recipients and their parents during the patients’ transition to adulthood. Data were collected from pediatric liver transplant recipients and their parents during individual interviews, and these were later analyzed using conventional content analysis. Seven main themes emerged: coping, self‐management, body image, social relationships, academic life, work life, and live donors. Study results revealed that the patients who received liver transplants during their childhood and adolescence used both effective and ineffective strategies to cope with the difficulties they faced during the transition period into adulthood. The parents experienced many problems: on learning of their child's need for a transplant, parents were advised that they should consider becoming a live donor. This very difficult decision was a source of great stress and required serious consideration. After transplantation the parents wanted their children to have autonomy but could not encourage them because of concerns for their health.
Overall and domain‐specific life satisfaction when living with familial Alzheimer's disease risk: A quantitative approach
Authors: Bergman Mette , Graff Caroline , Eriksdotter Maria , Schuster Marja , Fugl‐Meyer Kerstin S.
Published: August 2017

In this study, we explored life satisfaction and sense of coherence in relation to biopsychosocial variables in individuals at risk for the development of familial Alzheimer's disease. Forty nine individuals (response rate: 96%) were interviewed. Life satisfaction was found to be high for the majority of participants. Those who were older than the expected age of onset of disease, those <6 years’ inclusion in the Familial Alzheimer's disease biomarker study, and males tended to experience positive psychological health. Sense of coherence was positively associated with satisfaction with life as a whole, psychological health, vocation, and economy. Women seem to be more vulnerable than men, and attention should be given to those who have not passed the age of expected symptom onset. Early and recurrent counseling and psychosocial support were found to be essential. Issues related to vocation and economy are areas of concern, and are closely associated with sense of coherence, life satisfaction, and psychological health. This study emphasizes the importance of professional teams working together with the patient and their families.
Nursing assistants matters—An ethnographic study of knowledge sharing in interprofessional practice
Authors: Lindh Falk Annika , Hult Håkan , Hammar Mats , Hopwood Nick , Abrandt Dahlgren Madeleine
Published: August 2017

Interprofessional collaboration involves some kind of knowledge sharing, which is essential and will be important in the future in regard to the opportunities and challenges in practices for delivering safe and effective health care. Nursing assistants are seldom mentioned as a group of health care workers that contribute to interprofessional collaboration in health care practice. The aim of this ethnographic study was to explore how the nursing assistants’ knowledge can be shared in a team on a spinal cord injury rehabilitation ward. Using a sociomaterial perspective on practice, we captured different aspects of interprofessional collaboration in health care. The findings reveal how knowledge was shared between professionals, depending on different kinds of practice architecture. These specific cultural–discursive, material–economic, and social–political arrangements enabled possibilities through which nursing assistants’ knowledge informed other practices, and others’ knowledge informed the practice of nursing assistants. By studying what health care professionals actually do and say in practice, we found that the nursing assistants could make a valuable contribution of knowledge to the team.
China's Sanctions on North Korea After Its Fourth Nuclear Test
Authors: Jun Byoung‐Kon
Published: August 2017

This article aims to evaluate the will of the Chinese government to implement UN Security Council Resolution 2270 following North Korea's fourth nuclear test (1 January 2016), thereby seeking out the implications on China's sanctions against the DPRK after its fifth nuclear test (9 September 2016). The results of analysis in this article can be summed up as follows. First, the following instances capture the willingness of the Chinese government regarding the implementation of sanctions against the DPRK: (i) China agreed to stronger sanctions against North Korea (Resolution 2270); (ii) China boasted about its wholehearted support for – and complete willingness to implement – the sanctions at home and abroad; and (iii) upon the agreement, Beijing revealed the lists of items banned from export to North Korea and items subject to additional sanctions more promptly than before. Second, in spite of China's expressed willingness, the following instances demonstrate that there remain some limitations to Beijing's will regarding a thorough implementation of sanctions against Pyongyang: (i) the Chinese government argued that the United States should be responsible for sanctions against the North after its fourth nuclear test; (ii) China proposed the parallel approach of pursuing denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula and a peace treaty; (iii) China placed an emphasis on improving the living conditions of North Koreans; and (iv) China expressed opposition to deployment of terminal high‐altitude area defense on the Korean Peninsula. Third, such reactions are indicative of China's key essentials behind enforcing sanctions against the DPRK, which are the pursuit of Chinese national interests and the prevention of loss of those interests. To that end, China attempts to bypass the United States’ monitoring and pressure, considers the growing strategic value of North Korea as a result of intensifying conflicts between the United States and China, and induces the DPRK into a realm of dialogue. The fact that China needs to secure influence over North Korea and maintain the North Korean regime in a stable state even after its fifth nuclear test indicates that its sanctions against North Korea will be implemented within a boundary of not causing the regime collapse or chaos.
Brassinosteroid‐mediated apoplastic H2O2‐glutaredoxin 12/14 cascade regulates antioxidant capacity in response to chilling in tomato
Authors: Xia Xiao‐Jian , Fang Ping‐Ping , Guo Xie , Qian Xiang‐Jie , Zhou Jie , Shi Kai , Zhou Yan‐Hong , Yu Jing‐Quan
Published: August 2017

Brassinosteroids (BRs) regulate plant development and stress response. Although much has been learned about their roles in plant development, the mechanisms by which BRs regulate plant stress tolerance remain unclear. Chilling is a major stress that adversely affects plant growth. Here, we report that BR positively regulates chilling tolerance in tomato. BR partial deficiency aggravated chilling‐induced oxidized protein accumulation, membrane lipid peroxidation, and decrease of maximum quantum efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm). By contrast, overexpression of BR biosynthetic gene Dwarf or treatment with 24‐epibrassinolide (EBR) attenuated chilling‐induced oxidative damages and resulted in an increase of Fv/Fm. BR increased transcripts of RESPIRATORY BURST OXIDASE HOMOLOG1 (RBOH1) and GLUTAREDOXIN (GRX) genes, and BR‐induced chilling tolerance was associated with an increase in the ratio of reduced/oxidized 2‐cysteine peroxiredoxin (2‐Cys Prx) and activation of antioxidant enzymes. However, RBOH1‐RNAi plants failed to respond to EBR as regards to the induction of GRX genes, activation of antioxidant capacity, and attenuation of chilling‐induced oxidative damages. Furthermore, silencing of GRXS12 and S14 compromised EBR‐induced increases in the ratio of reduced/oxidized 2‐Cys Prx and activities of antioxidant enzymes. Our study suggests that BR enhances chilling tolerance through a signalling cascade involving RBOH1, GRXs, and 2‐Cys Prx in tomato.
The Historical Presidency: JFK's Dante
Authors: Parker Deborah
Published: August 2017

John F. Kennedy was a voracious reader and he put his reading to work in his speeches. His favorite quotation was from Dante: “The hottest places in Hell are reserved for those who in times of moral crisis preserve their neutrality.” Throughout his career, he cited Dante more than 25 times. This essay traces Kennedy's deployment of two Dante quotations and analyzes their sources and the rhetoric surrounding them. Kennedy employed famous authors like Dante in a campaign of persuasion. Kennedy's allusions to Dante attest to his belief that poetry and politics could enhance one another.
The effect of category learning on visual attention and visual representation
Authors: Folstein Jonathan R. , Monfared Shamsi S. , Maravel Trevor
Published: August 2017

Subordinate‐level category learning recruits neural resources associated with perceptual expertise, including the N250 component of the ERP, a posterolateral negative wave maximal between 230 and 330 ms. The N250 is a relatively late visual ERP and could plausibly be driven by attention to the features of categorized objects. Indeed, it has a latency and scalp distribution similar to the selection negativity (SN), an ERP component long known to be sensitive to attentional selection of target features. To clarify sensitivity of the N250 to attention and to more generally investigate the effect of category learning on attentional modulation of learned features, we independently manipulated subordinate‐level category learning and target detection in a speeded paradigm designed to optimally elicit the SN and accompanying frontal selection positivity (FSP). Participants first practiced categorizing a set of artificial animal stimuli and then performed a speeded target detection task on trained and untrained stimuli while ERPs were recorded. SN and FSP were roughly linearly related to the number of target features in the stimulus. Trained stimuli elicited a significantly larger N250 than untrained stimuli. The SN and N250 effects were additive, with all levels of target similarity equally affected by training, and had different time courses. Training had little effect on the FSP. The results suggest that (a) the N250 and SN have different sources, and (b) at the very least, the learning‐induced N250 indexes a different attentional subprocess from the target‐induced SN and could be driven by a different cognitive process altogether.
Multidimensional assessment of severe asthma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Clark Vanessa L. , Gibson Peter G. , Genn Grayson , Hiles Sarah A. , Pavord Ian D. , McDonald Vanessa M.
Published: August 2017

The management of severe asthma is complex. Multidimensional assessment (MDA) of specific traits has been proposed as an effective strategy to manage severe asthma, although it is supported by few prospective studies.

We aimed to systematically review the literature published on MDA in severe asthma, to identify the traits included in MDA and to determine the effect of MDA on asthma‐related outcomes.

We identified 26 studies and classified these based on study type (cohort/cross‐sectional studies; experimental/outcome studies; and severe asthma disease registries). Study type determined the comprehensiveness of the assessment. Assessed traits were classified into three domains (airways, co‐morbidities and risk factors). The airway domain had the largest number of traits assessed (mean ± SD = 4.2 ± 1.7) compared with co‐morbidities (3.6 ± 2.2) and risk factors (3.9 ± 2.1). Bronchodilator reversibility and airflow limitation were assessed in 92% of studies, whereas airway inflammation was only assessed in 50%. Commonly assessed co‐morbidities were psychological dysfunction, sinusitis (both 73%) and gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GORD; 69%). Atopic and smoking statuses were the most commonly assessed risk factors (85% and 86%, respectively).

There were six outcome studies, of which five concluded that MDA is effective at improving asthma‐related outcomes. Among these studies, significantly more traits were assessed than treated.

MDA studies have assessed a variety of different traits and have shown evidence of improved outcomes. This promising model of care requires more research to inform which traits should be assessed, which traits should be treated and what effect MDA has on patient outcomes.
A pilot study of the effect of pullulan‐conjugated Der f 2 allergen‐specific immunotherapy on canine atopic dermatitis
Authors: Kawano Kouji , Mizuno Takuya
Published: August 2017

Background

Dermatophagoides farinae is a major and common environmental house dust mite involved in canine atopic dermatitis (CAD). A formulation of recombinant protein Der f 2 is available in Japan for immunotherapy in dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy of a recombinant allergen based on Der f 2‐pullulan for the treatment of cAD.

Methods

Dogs (n = 15) with atopic dermatitis were administered Der f 2 conjugated with pullulan (‐P). Two dogs were eliminated because of death unrelated to the treatment during the study. The remaining 13 cases were included in the analysis. Clinical signs were evaluated with the Canine Atopic Dermatitis Lesion Index (CADLI) and pruritus levels were evaluated from 0 to 10 with a pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS).

Results

The mean ± standard deviation (SD) of CADLI [before allergen‐specific immunotherapy (pre‐ASIT) 21.9 ± 9.7; 60 days post‐ASIT 9.8 ± 8.4 and 120 days post‐ASIT 9.7 ± 8.2] and the mean ± SD of PVAS [pre‐ASIT 7.2 ± 1.2; post‐ASIT (60 days) 2.6 ± 2.2 and post‐ASIT (120 days) 3.1 ± 2.5] significantly decreased after treatment (Dunnett's test, P < 0.05). Furthermore, the total doses of oral glucocorticoids in the two months pre‐ASIT significantly decreased in comparison with two months post‐ASIT (123 ± 72.6 mg vs. 70.0 ± 84.3 mg; Dunnett's test, P < 0.05).

Conclusions and clinical importance

The results indicate the effectiveness of Der f 2‐P recombinant protein in the treatment of dogs with CAD and testing positive to D. farinae.
Numerical Simulations and Analysis of a Low Consumption Hybrid Air Extractor
Authors: Sanchez Marc , Toutant Adrien , Bataille Françoise
Published: August 2017

Hybrid low pressure air extractors are an economic way to enhance indoor air quality. The evaluation of their energetic performances needs the analysis of flow parameters that is typically done with wind tunnel data and numerical simulations. The purpose of this study is to analyze, numerically and experimentally, the flow and the energetic performances of a hybrid rooftop extractor. This innovative extractor has two main features: it works at low difference of pressure, below 50 Pa, and its fan is placed far above the duct outlet, out of the fluid flow. The hybrid extractor works following three modes of operation: stack effect, Venturi effect, and fan rotation. The two first modes of operation allow large energy saving. To analyze the three modes of operation, three sets of corresponding Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) simulations are developed. The first one allows us to estimate the pressure drop due to the geometry of the air extractor. The second one is used to check the ability of the extractor to generate a suction into the duct in the presence of wind. The final one involves multiple reference frame (MRF) modeling in order to study the flow when the electric motor drives the fan. The numerical simulation configurations are validated with experimental data. A good behavior of the extractor is found for simulations of stack effect mode and Venturi effect mode. The stack effect and the Venturi effect allows the hybrid extractor to work most of the time without electric power. Finally, energetic comparisons are given.
Controlling the alignment of rodlike colloidal particles with time-dependent shear flows
Authors: Leahy Brian D. , Koch Donald L. , Cohen Itai
Published: August 2017

While colloidal suspensions of nonspherical particles have been studied for decades, most work has focused on describing their behavior in flows with simple time behavior. Little is known about their behavior in flows with complex variations in time, and in particular, the possibility of varying the flow to control the suspension's properties. Here, we take advantage of a recent solution for the orientation dynamics of a dilute suspension under an arbitrary periodic, high-frequency shear flow to control particle alignment and suspension rheology. Working in the twin limit of rapid oscillations (Pe=1/DTcyc≫1, where D is the rotary diffusivity and Tcyc is the oscillation period) and long times t (Dt≫1), we use a periodic simple shear waveform to strongly align particle orientations, aligning the orientations more strongly than steady shear by a factor proportional to the particle aspect ratio. Since particle orientations couple to the suspension stress, we can strongly control the rheology, maximizing and minimizing the viscosity and creating large normal stress signals. Surprisingly, the optimal waveforms are extremely simple, providing an intuitive understanding of the mechanisms for controlling particle alignment and suspension rheology.
Modeling the intrinsic viscosity of polydisperse disks
Authors: Ismail Issam , Vandenberg Jeremy , Abdala Ahmed , Macosko Chris
Published: August 2017

In this work, we model the rheology of dilute colloidal oblate spheroids in their high aspect ratio limit of circular disks. Theoretical models for the intrinsic viscosity, [η], of disks in shear flow are reviewed: The shear-independent, monodisperse Kuhn-Kuhn model, its polydisperse form by van der Kooij, and the shear-dependent models of Stewart and Sorenson, Leal and Hinch, and Brenner. Based on these previous works, three analytical models are introduced to describe the shear response over the entire range of practically accessible rotational Peclet numbers (Pe) and aspect ratios. Using the fact that [η] is linearly additive for sufficiently dilute systems we derive a general expression for polydisperse disks as a function of the two independent variables of particle diameter D and thickness t, that is, assuming D and t to be uncorrelated independent variables. We then argue for continuum modeling being preferable to discrete for using rheological measurements to estimate particle size distribution parameters. Computational results are shown for the continuum model in shear flow and generalized to uniaxial and planar extension, as well as to different particle distributions such as lognormal, normal, and bimodal. Finally, a modified form of [η], which we describe as innate viscosity (η), is suggested as an alternative method of modeling rheology of dilute dispersions.
Draft Genome Sequences of Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium LT2 with Deleted Chitinases That Are Emerging Virulence Factors
Authors: Arabyan Narine , Huang Bihua C. , Weimer Bart C.
Published: August 2017

Chitinases are glycosyl hydrolases that catalyze the hydrolysis of the β-1,4 linkages in complex carbohydrates and those that contain GlcNAc. These enzymes are considered emerging virulence factors during infection because the host glycan changes. This is the release of four single chitinase deletion mutants in
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium LT2.
Whole-Genome Sequence of Leuconostoc mesenteroides LT-38, a Non-Spore-Forming Gram-Positive Lactic Acid Bacterium
Authors: Kato Shiro , Oikawa Tadao
Published: August 2017

The present study reports the complete genome sequence of
Leuconostoc mesenteroides
strain LT-38, which is a non-spore-forming Gram-positive lactic acid bacterium. The genome is composed of a 2,022,184-bp circular chromosome and contains 2,005 putative protein-coding genes.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Stenotrophomonas
sp. Strain WZN-1, Which Is Capable of Degrading Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers
Authors: Wu Zhineng , Bartlam Mark , Wang Yingying
Published: August 2017

Stenotrophomonas
sp. strain WZN-1, isolated from an e-waste recycling area in Tianjin, China, is capable of degrading polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). The complete genome of strain WZN-1 consists of 4,512,703 bp. This genome information will provide important information about the biodegradation pathways and mechanisms of PBDEs.
Draft Genome Sequence of Cronobacter sakazakii GP1999, Sequence Type 145, an Epiphytic Isolate Obtained from the Tomato’s Rhizoplane/Rhizosphere Continuum
Authors: Chase Hannah R. , Eberl Leo , Stephan Roger , Jeong HyeJin , Lee Chaeyoon , Finkelstein Samantha , Negrete Flavia , Gangiredla Jayanthi , Patel Isha , Tall Ben D. , Gopinath Gopal R. , Lehner Angelika
Published: August 2017

We present here the draft genome of
Cronobacter sakazakii
GP1999, a sequence type 145 strain isolated from the rhizosphere of tomato plants. Assembly and annotation of the genome resulted in a genome of 4,504,670 bp in size, with 4,148 coding sequences, and a GC content of 56.8%.
Draft Genome Sequence of an Endophytic Fungus,
Gaeumannomyces
sp. Strain JS-464, Isolated from a Reed Plant,
Phragmites communis
Authors: Kim Jung A. , Jeon Jongbum , Kim Ki-Tae , Choi Gobong , Park Sook-Young , Lee Hyun-Jung , Shim Sang-Hee , Lee Yong-Hwan , Kim Soonok
Published: August 2017

An endophytic fungus,
Gaeumannomyces
sp. strain JS-464, is capable of producing a number of secondary metabolites which showed significant nitric oxide reduction activity. The draft genome assembly has a size of 53,151,282 bp, with a G+C content of 53.11% consisting of 80 scaffolds with an
N
50
of 7.46 Mbp.
Exploring the patient perspective of fatigue in adults with visual impairment: a qualitative study
Authors: Schakel Wouter , Bode Christina , van der Aa Hilde P A , Hulshof Carel T J , Bosmans Judith E , van Rens Gerardus H M B , van Nispen Ruth M A
Published: August 2017

Objectives

Fatigue is an often mentioned symptom by patients with irreversible visual impairment. This study explored the patient perspective of fatigue in visually impaired adults with a focus on symptoms of fatigue, causes, consequences and coping strategies.

Setting

Two large Dutch low vision multidisciplinary rehabilitation organisations.

Participants

16 visually impaired adults with severe symptoms of fatigue selected by purposive sampling.

Methods

A qualitative study involving semistructured interviews. A total of four first-level codes were top–down predetermined in correspondence with the topics of the research question. Verbatim transcribed interviews were analysed with a combination of a deductive and inductive approach using open and axial coding.

Results

Participants often described the symptoms of fatigue as a mental, daily and physical experience. The most often mentioned causes of fatigue were a high cognitive load, the intensity and amount of activities, the high effort necessary to establish visual perception, difficulty with light intensity and negative cognitions. Fatigue had the greatest impact on the ability to carry out social roles and participation, emotional functioning and cognitive functioning. The most common coping strategies were relaxation, external support, socialising and physical exercise and the acceptance of fatigue.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that low vision-related fatigue is mainly caused by population specific determinants that seem different from the fatigue experience described in studies with other patient populations. Fatigue may be central to the way patients react, adapt and compensate to the consequences of vision loss. These findings indicate a need for future research aimed at interventions specifically tailored to the unique aspects of fatigue related to vision loss.
A randomised trial of non-mydriatic ultra-wide field retinal imaging versus usual care to screen for diabetic eye disease: rationale and protocol for the Clearsight trial
Authors: Liu Selina L , Mahon Lewis W , Klar Neil S , Schulz David C , Gonder John R , Hramiak Irene M , Mahon Jeffrey L
Published: August 2017

Introduction

Suboptimal screening for diabetic eye disease is a major cause of preventable vision loss. Screening barriers include mydriasis and the extra time patients need to attend dedicated eye screening appointments. In the Clearsight trial, we are testing whether screening by non-mydriatic ultra-wide field (NM UWF) imaging on the day patients attend their diabetes outpatient clinic visit improves detection of clinically important eye disease compared with usual screening.

Methods and analysis

Patients with diabetes due for a screening eye exam by the 2013 Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) practice guidelines are being randomised to on-site screening by NM UWF imaging on the day of their clinic visit or to usual screening where, per CDA guidelines, they are encouraged to arrange an exam by an optometrist. The primary outcome is actionable eye disease (AED) based on a need for referral to ophthalmology and/or increased ocular surveillance. The primary analysis will use an intention-to-screen approach that compares the proportions of detected AED between on-site and usual screening groups under a superiority hypothesis in favour of on-site screening. With 740 randomised participants, the study will have 80% power to detect ≥5% absolute increase in the AED rate among on-site screening versus usual screening participants. This difference translates into a number-needed-to-screen by on-site screening of 20 to detect 1 additional person with AED.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol was approved by the institutional review board of Western University. The findings of the trial will be disseminated directly to participants and through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.GovNCT02579837(registered 16 October 2015).

Protocol issue date

18 November 2015.
Examining the mediating effect of work-to-family conflict on the associations between job stressors and employee psychological distress: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Oshio Takashi , Inoue Akiomi , Tsutsumi Akizumi
Published: August 2017

Objectives

The mediating effect of work-to-family conflict (WFC) on the associations between eight types of job stressors (measured based on the job demands-control, effort–reward imbalance and organisational justice models) and psychological distress in employees was examined.

Design

This study employed a prospective design.

Setting

An occupational cohort study in Japan (Japanese Study of Health, Occupation, and Psychosocial Factors Related Equity; J-HOPE).

Participants

5859 men and 1560 women who were working for 11 firms and participated at three consecutive waves of J-HOPE, at 1-year intervals, from 2010 to 2013.

Main outcome measures

Psychological distress, as measured by Kessler 6 scores.

Results

Mediation analysis using data on job stressors at baseline, WFC at 1-year follow-up and psychological distress at 2-year follow-up showed that WFC mediated 39.1% (95% CI 29.1% to 49.1%) and 44.5% (95% CI 31.4% to 51.7%) of the associations of psychological distress with job demands and effort, respectively, for men. The mediating effect of WFC was smaller for job stressors indicating reduced job resources, compared with job demands and effort. The mediating effect of WFC was somewhat larger for women than it was for men, with WFC mediating 47.5% (95% CI 22.5% to 72.6%) and 64.0% (95% CI 24.3% to 100.0%) of the associations of psychological distress with job demands and effort, respectively.

Conclusions

WFC was a key mediator in the associations between most job stressors and employee psychological distress. Results suggest that policy measures and support from supervisors, to prevent job stressors from adding to WFC, are needed to reduce employee psychological distress.