bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polymers and Biopolymers with Antiviral Activity: Potential Applications for Improving Food Safety
Authors: Randazzo Walter , Fabra María José , Falcó Irene , López‐Rubio Amparo , Sánchez Gloria
Published: April 2018

Gastroenteritis and hepatitis, caused by human noroviruses (HuNoVs) and hepatitis A virus (HAV), respectively, are the most common illnesses resulting from the consumption of food contaminated with human enteric viruses. Food‐grade polymers can be tailor designed to improve food safety, either as novel food‐packaging materials imparting active antimicrobial properties, applied in food contact surfaces to avoid cross‐contamination, or as edible coatings to increase fresh produce's shelf life. The incorporation of antimicrobial agents into food‐grade polymers can be used to control the food microbiota and even target specific foodborne pathogens to improve microbiological food safety and to enhance food quality. Enteric viruses are responsible for one fifth of acute gastroenteritis cases worldwide and the development of food‐grade polymers and biopolymers with antiviral activity for food applications is a topic of increased interest, both for academia and the food industry, even though developments are still limited. This review compiles existing studies in this widely unexplored area and highlights the potential of these developments to improve viral food safety.
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Diminished Criminal Responsibility as “New Evidence” in Criminal Revision Procedures
Authors: Rassin Eric , Boskovic Irena , Merckelbach Harald
Published: April 2018

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may affect victims of crime, but may also be reported by offenders. In the postappeal phase, offenders may claim to suffer from chronic PTSD and argue that this indicates diminished criminal responsibility at the time the index crime was committed. As members of a Dutch criminal cases review commission, we recently encountered two cases in which PTSD was presented as new evidence that would justify a reopening of the case. In this article, we argue that such claims are problematic in that clinical decision making resulting in a PTSD diagnosis adheres to quite different standards than those dictating forensic fact‐finding. The two cases illustrate the difference between criminal and clinical fact‐finding.
Nutritional stress reduces flight performance and exploratory behavior in a butterfly
Authors: Reim Elisabeth , Eichhorn Danny , Roy Jan D. , Steinhoff Philip O. M. , Fischer Klaus
Published: April 2018

Anthropogenic global change, including agricultural intensification and climate change, poses a substantial challenge to many herbivores due to a reduced availability of feeding resources. The concomitant food stress is expected to detrimentally affect performance, amongst others in dispersal‐related traits. Thus, while dispersal is of utmost importance to escape from deteriorating habitat conditions, such conditions may negatively feedback on the ability to do so. Therefore, we here investigate the impact of larval and adult food stress on traits related to dispersal ability, including morphology, physiology, flight performance, and exploratory behavior, in a butterfly. We show that inadequate nutrition during development and in the adult stage diminishes flight performance, despite some re‐allocation of somatic resources. Detrimental effects of food stress on flight performance were mainly caused by reductions in body mass and storage reserves. Similar results were found for exploratory behavior. Furthermore, exploratory behavior was found to be (moderately) repeatable at the individual level, which might indicate the existence of a personality trait. This notion is further supported by the fact that flight performance and exploratory behavior were positively correlated, potentially suggesting the existence of a dispersal syndrome. In summary, our findings may have important implications for dispersal in natural environments, as the conditions requiring dispersal the most impair flight ability and thereby likely dispersal rates.
A Comparison of Temporal Dominance of Sensation (TDS) and Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA™) to Identify Flavors in Strawberries
Authors: Oliver Penelope , Cicerale Sara , Pang Edwin , Keast Russell
Published: April 2018

Temporal dominance of sensations (TDS) is a rapid descriptive method that offers a different magnitude of information to traditional descriptive analysis methodologies. This methodology considers the dynamic nature of eating, assessing sensory perception of foods as they change throughout the eating event. Limited research has applied the TDS methodology to strawberries and subsequently validated the results against Quantitative Descriptive Analysis (QDA™). The aim of this research is to compare the TDS methodology using an untrained consumer panel to the results obtained via QDA™ with a trained sensory panel. The trained panelists (n = 12, minimum 60 hr each panelist) were provided with six strawberry samples (three cultivars at two maturation levels) and applied QDA™ techniques to profile each strawberry sample. Untrained consumers (n = 103) were provided with six strawberry samples (three cultivars at two maturation levels) and required to use TDS methodology to assess the dominant sensations for each sample as they change over time. Results revealed moderately comparable product configurations produced via TDS in comparison to QDA™ (RV coefficient = 0.559), as well as similar application of the sweet attribute (correlation coefficient of 0.895 at first bite). The TDS methodology however was not in agreement with the QDA™ methodology regarding more complex flavor terms. These findings support the notion that the lack of training on the definition of terms, together with the limitations of the methodology to ignore all attributes other than those dominant, provide a different magnitude of information than the QDA™ methodology.

Practical Application

A comparison of TDS to traditional descriptive analysis indicate that TDS provides additional information to QDA™ regarding the lingering component of eating. The QDA™ results however provide more precise detail regarding singular attributes. Therefore, the TDS methodology has an application in industry when it is important to understand the lingering profile of products. However, this methodology should not be employed as a replacement to traditional descriptive analysis methods.
Effects of CD36 Genotype on Oral Perception of Oleic Acid Supplemented Safflower Oil Emulsions in Two Ethnic Groups: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Burgess Brenda , Melis Melania , Scoular Katelyn , Driver Michael , Schaich Karen M. , Keller Kathleen L. , Tomassini Barbarossa Iole , Tepper Beverly J.
Published: April 2018

Previous studies demonstrate humans can detect fatty acids via specialized sensors on the tongue, such as the CD36 receptor. Genetic variation at the common single nucleotide polymorphism rs1761667 of CD36 has been shown to differentially impact the perception of fatty acids, but comparative data among different ethnic groups are lacking. In a small cohort of Caucasian and East Asian young adults, we investigated if: (1) participants could detect oleic acid (C18:1) added to safflower oil emulsions at a constant ratio of 3% (w/v); (2) supplementation of oleic acid to safflower oil emulsions enhanced perception of fattiness and creaminess; and (3) variation at rs1761667 influenced oleic acid detection and fat taste perception. In a 3‐alternate forced choice test, 62% of participants detected 2.9 ± 0.7 mM oleic acid (or 0.08% w/v) in a 2.8% safflower oil emulsion. Supplementation of oleic acid did not enhance fattiness and creaminess perception for the cohort as a whole, though East Asians carrying the GG genotype perceived more overall fattiness and creaminess than their AA genotype counterparts (P < 0.001). No differences were observed for the Caucasians. These preliminary findings indicate that free oleic acid can be detected in an oil‐in‐water emulsion at concentrations found in commercial oils, but it does not increase fattiness or creaminess perception. Additionally, variation at rs1761667 may have ethnic‐specific effects on fat taste perception.
Intracellular Expression of Antifreeze Peptides in Food Grade Lactococcus lactis and Evaluation of Their Cryoprotective Activity
Authors: Zhang Li , Jin Quan , Luo Jing , Wu Jinhong , Wang Shaoyun , Wang Zhengwu , Gong Shengxiang , Zhang Wei , Lan Xiaohong
Published: April 2018

Antifreeze peptides can protect living organisms from low temperatures by preventing damage or killing due to ice crystal formation between cells. Therefore, antifreeze peptides can be used as a low temperature protectant for cryopreservation of cells and tissues, and also in food production. In this study, a recombinant SF‐P gene was constructed and inserted into pNZ8149 to construct a food grade expression vector, which was then electroporated into Lactococcus lactis NZ3900. The expression of the target protein was induced using Nisin, and the optimal expression condition was determined to be a pH of 6.0, Nisin concentration of 25 ng/mL, temperature of 37 °C, and incubation time of 6 hr. Compared to the strain NZ3900 and the recombinant strain SF‐P1 without addition of Nisin, the recombinant strain SF‐P2 showed the highest cell survival and thermal hysteresis activity, and had a reduction in the changes of activities of extracellular and intracellular lactate dehydrogenase and β‐galactosidase after freezing. Moreover, analysis by SEM showed that SF‐P2 cells were more completely and regularly shaped than other strains, displayed no obvious leakage of cell contents, and had an intact boundary between cells after freezing. These results indicate that the recombinant strain SF‐P2 has a protective effect against freezing. This paper presents a food grade expression system for an antifreeze peptide SF‐P using L. lactis as a host, and shows that the intracellular expression of antifreeze peptide could protect the cellular integrity and physiological functions of L. lactis.

Practical Application

The recombinant Lactococcus lactis with intracellular expression of antifreeze peptides SF‐P could reduce the damage of bacteria cells induced by freezing or freeze drying, so, it could be applied in the process of freezing food without separation, such as the manufacture of yoghurt ice cream, frozen dough, and so on.
Sensory Profile, Drivers of Liking, and Influence of Information on the Acceptance of Low‐Calorie Synbiotic and Probiotic Chocolate Ice Cream
Authors: Peres Juliana , Esmerino Erick , da Silva Alessandra Lins , Racowski Ilana , Bolini Helena
Published: April 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate the sensory profile and the influence of the information on the acceptance of the symbiotic chocolate ice cream made with sucrose and different sweeteners (aspartame, sucralose, neotame, Stevia with 60%, 85%, 95%, and 97% of rebaudioside A) through analysis of variance (ANOVA), Tukey's test, and partial least of square (PLS) regression. Quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) was carried out by 18 assessors, who evaluated the samples in relation to the raised descriptors. Additionally, two acceptance tests (blind/informed) were performed with 120 consumers. The samples sweetened with sucralose and rebaudioside 97% presented similar profile to the control sample, thus having a better potential to replace sucrose in chocolate ice cream. The acceptance test carried out with information had higher scores for the attributes appearance, aroma, flavor, texture, and overall impression. The correlation between data from the acceptance tests and QDA showed that the descriptors “low‐energy” and “natural sweetener” claims interfered negatively in the drivers of liking of chocolate ice cream. Therefore, we can conclude that some characteristics unnoticed by consumers were highlighted after providing the information about the product's characteristics.

Practical Application

This research is important and contributes to the manufacture and development of low‐calorie chocolate ice cream with functional properties, guiding, through suitable sensory and statistical tools, the application of stevia and other artificial sweeteners in products with reduction or total absence of sucrose and highlighting the impact of the labeling of these products on consumer perception.
Active Chicken Meat Packaging Based on Polylactide Films and Bimetallic Ag–Cu Nanoparticles and Essential Oil
Authors: Ahmed Jasim , Arfat Yasir Ali , Bher Anibal , Mulla Mehrajfatema , Jacob Harsha , Auras Rafael
Published: April 2018

Plasticized polylactide (PLA) composite films with multifunctional properties were created by loading bimetallic silver–copper (Ag–Cu) nanoparticles (NPs) and cinnamon essential oil (CEO) into polymer matrix via compression molding technique. Rheological, structural, thermal, barrier, and antimicrobial properties of the produced films, and its utilization in the packaging of chicken meat were investigated. PLA/PEG/Ag–Cu/CEO composites showed a very complex rheological system where both plasticizing and antiplasticizing effects were evident. Thermal properties of plasticized PLA film with polyethylene glycol (PEG) enhanced considerably with the reinforcement of NPs whereas loading of CEO decreased glass transition, melting, and crystallization temperature. The barrier properties of the composite films were reduced with the increase of CEO loading (P < 0.05). Their optical properties were also modified by the addition of both CEO and Ag–Cu NPs. The changes in the molecular organization of PLA composite films were visualized by FTIR spectra. Rough and porous surfaces of the films were evident by scanning electron microscopy. The effectiveness of composite films was tested against Salmonella Typhimurium, Campylobacter jejuni and Listeria monocytogenes inoculated in chicken samples, and it was found that the films loaded with Ag–Cu NPs and 50% CEO showed maximum antibacterial action during 21 days at the refrigerated condition. The produced PLA/Ag–Cu/CEO composite films can be applied to active food packaging.

Practical Application

The nanoparticles and essential oil loaded PLA composite films are capable of exhibiting antimicrobial effects against Gram (+) and (–) bacteria, and extend the shelf‐life of chicken meat. The bionanocomposite films showed the potential to be manufactured commercially because of the thermal stability of the active components during the hot‐press compression molding process. The developed bionanocomposites could have practical importance and open a new direction for the active food packaging to control the spoilage and the pathogenic bacteria associated with the fresh chicken meat.
Effects of Different Acyl Gellan Gums on the Rheological Properties and Colloidal Stability of Blueberry Cloudy Juice
Authors: Xu Xue‐Jiao , Li Yan‐Hua , Fang Sheng , Chen Jie , Yuan Ying , Gan Jing , Tao Zui , Meng Yue‐Cheng
Published: April 2018

In this study, gellan gums with different acyl contents were prepared, and their effects on blueberry cloudy juices were compared. The rheological properties, stability coefficients, sedimentations, color parameters and particle size distributions of blueberry cloudy juices with 0.035% (w/w) of gellan gum were measured. As the acyl content increased, the viscosity increased, and the sedimentation and stability coefficient values decreased. Gellan gums with higher acyl contents provided better beverage stabilizing capabilities through stricter enforcement of the molecular associations. Overall, this study provides valuable information for enhancing the gelation and stabilization of blueberry cloudy juices, confirms the superiority of high acyl gellan gums for inhibiting the color fading of anthocyanins, and further guides the development of novel product concepts.

Practical Application

Cloudy juices made from blueberries have many benefits. However, the particles in cloudy juices will flocculate during storage, resulting in an undesirable precipitate. In our work, gellan gums with different acyl contents were prepared and applied to blueberry juice to prevent aggregation. The results provide valuable information for enhancing the stabilization of blueberry juices, confirm the superiority of high acyl gellan for inhibiting color fading, and further guide the development of novel product concepts.
Bacterial Communities in Serpa Cheese by Culture Dependent Techniques, 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing and High‐throughput Sequencing Analysis
Authors: Gonçalves Maria Teresa P. , Benito María José , Córdoba María de Guía , Egas Conceição , Merchán Almudena V. , Galván Ana I. , Ruiz‐Moyano Santiago
Published: April 2018

Serpa cheese is one of the traditional regional Portuguese cheeses having the Protected Denomination of Origin (PDO) designation. This study investigated the bacterial community in the traditional Portuguese Serpa cheese. The microorganisms identified at the end of ripening (30 days) mainly were lactic acid bacteria (LAB). Lactobacillus paracasei/Lactobacillus casei was the main species in cheese from PDO registered industries, whereas in non‐PDO registered industries Lactobacillus brevis was highlighted, among other LAB. Enterobacteriaceae species were detected at 20% to 40% of the total isolates. The results obtained by high‐throughput sequencing analysis confirmed that LAB was the main microbial group, with Lactococcus genus contributing to approximately 40% to 60% of the population, followed by Leuconostoc and Lactobacillus. The Enterobacteriaceae family was also important. The differences between bacterial communities from PDO and non‐PDO registered industries suggest that the lack of regulation of the cheese‐making practices may influence unfavorably. The new knowledge about bacterial diversity in Serpa cheese could be useful to set up new ripening conditions, which favor the development of desirable microorganisms.

Practical Application

The control of the manufacturing process of traditional cheeses can be improved through the knowledge of the bacterial diversity that develops. Thus, the growth of desirable microorganisms can be promoted to homogenize the final product.
Natural Borneol Enhances Paclitaxel‐Induced Apoptosis of ESCC Cells by Inactivation of the PI3K/AKT
Authors: Meng Xiaofeng , Dong Xiaomei , Wang Wen , Yang Liu , Zhang Xia , Li Yanfang , Chen Tianfeng , Ma Hang , Qi Da , Su Jianyu
Published: April 2018

Paclitaxel (PTX) has been used in a variety of malignancies for inhibiting tumor development and improving survival. However, its clinical application is limited due to poor solubility, drug resistance, and gastrointestinal reactions. Natural borneol (NB), as a promoter, could help to improve drug absorption. Therefore, the aims of the present study were to investigate the ability of NB to synergize with PTX to induce human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cells apoptosis and the underlying mechanism of synergistic effects. In this study, our findings showed that NB could effectively synergize with PTX to inhibit the survival of ESCC cells by inducing apoptosis. The molecular mechanism by western blotting elucidated that combination treatment with PTX and NB significantly activated apoptotic pathway by triggering upregulation of cleaved caspase‐3 expression and downregulation of survivin and P‐AKT expression. These results demonstrated that NB could strongly potentiate PTX‐induced apoptosis in ESCC cells through suppressing PI3K/AKT pathway. Thus, the combination therapy with NB and PTX might be a promising treatment strategy for human esophageal cancer.

Practical Application

Esophageal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world. It has brought about a major public health problem. Many natural agents have been employed in the synergized treatments of esophageal cancer. This study provides a comprehensive way to investigate the ability of borneol to synergize with paclitaxel to induce human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cells apoptosis and the underlying mechanism of synergistic effects. The research showed that the combination treatment with some natural agents might be a promising treatment strategy for human esophageal cancer.
Responding to the SDG16 Measurement Challenge: The Governance, Peace and Security Survey Modules in Africa
Authors: Razafindrakoto Mireille , Roubaud François
Published: April 2018

This paper presents an ongoing initiative, built on a practical approach grounded in fieldwork, to produce harmonised statistics on governance, peace and security (GPS) at continental level in Africa. The methodology consists of adding standardised GPS modules to official socioeconomic household surveys. In keeping with the widely promoted principles of inclusiveness and participation, the use of statistical surveys of large, representative samples of the population is a good strategy for voicing citizens’ views and concerns. The adoption of the 2030 agenda, which positions institution‐building and governance issues as a cornerstone of sustainable development, provides a unique opportunity to consolidate this pioneering African experience. Institutionalisation of the production of GPS statistics by national statistics offices in the official statistics field offers a promising means to take up the Goal 16 measurement challenge. The paper describes the main methodological options for doing so and draws lessons and initial evidence from a dozen countries that have piloted the GPS survey module. Selected empirical results illustrate the analytical potential and policy relevance of this approach.
Transitioning from an Historical to a Contemporary Use of Tax Record Data for Measuring Top Incomes in Australia
Authors: Burkhauser Richard V. , Hahn Markus H. , Wilkins Roger
Published: April 2018

A major literature using tax data measures the share of income captured by the top of the income distribution. We correct existing Australian estimates by removing employers’ social contributions from the denominator and explain the limitations of using public record tax tables to capture the numerator. We show that Australian Tax Office unit record sample data are only able to accurately measure incomes of top income groups below the top 1 per cent. We conclude that greater access to the entire unit tax record population will be necessary to bring Australian research in this area up to that in the United States and United Kingdom.
Miniaturization of biologgers is not alleviating the 5% rule
Authors: Portugal Steven J. , White Craig R.
Published: April 2018

The use of biologging technology has increased exponentially over the last decade, allowing us to study animal behaviour at a level of detail not previously possible.

It is clear from recent meta‐analyses that the attachment of such devices can have negative effects on individual animals, particularly their behaviour and physiology. In recognition of this, a commonly applied rule is to ensure that devices borne by flying animals weigh less than 5% of their body mass. Over time, the continuing miniaturization of devices should facilitate the deployment of devices that are an ever‐decreasing fraction of animal mass.

Despite these considerations regarding device mass, here we show that there has been no apparent reduction in the relationship between body mass and the mass of logging devices over the last 48 years.

Using a meta‐analytical approach, we demonstrate that the ongoing miniaturization of animal‐borne devices has resulted not in a decrease in the relative device mass borne by animals, but instead has prompted researchers to measure smaller and smaller species.

We recommend that researchers better exploit the ongoing miniaturization of devices to reduce the relative mass of the devices borne by animals, and avoid blind adoption of the 5% or any other arbitrary rule when designing research programs.
The Impact of Mandatory International Financial Reporting Standards Adoption on Investment Efficiency: Standards, Enforcement, and Reporting Incentives
Authors: Gao Ru , Sidhu Baljit K.
Published: April 2018

This paper investigates whether mandatory adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) is followed by a decline in firms’ suboptimal investments. On average, we find that the probability of under‐investment in capital expenditure declines for firms from 23 countries requiring mandatory adoption of IFRS relative to firms from countries that do not have such requirements; meanwhile the probability of over‐investment remains unchanged. However, this real effect becomes smaller when we control for concurrent changes to the enforcement of financial reporting along with the introduction of IFRS in some countries, suggesting that the switch in standards is only one of the drivers for the observed benefits. Moreover, we find that the reduction in suboptimal investments is driven by firms with high reporting incentives to provide transparent financial reports from countries where the existing legal and enforcement systems are strong. We further show that the real effect increases with the predicted changes in accounting comparability. Finally, we find that after mandatory IFRS adoption, capital investment becomes more value‐relevant, less sensitive to the availability of free cash flows, and more responsive to growth opportunities. Our findings provide new insights into the real effects of mandatory IFRS adoption.
Advanced oxidation protein products induce pre‐osteoblast apoptosis through a nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase‐dependent, mitogen‐activated protein kinases‐mediated intrinsic apoptosis pathway
Authors: Zhu Si‐Yuan , Zhuang Jing‐Shen , Wu Qian , Liu Zhong‐Yuan , Liao Cong‐Rui , Luo Shi‐Gan , Chen Jian‐Ting , Zhong Zhao‐Ming
Published: April 2018

Osteoblast apoptosis contributes to age‐related bone loss. Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) are recognized as the markers of oxidative stress and potent inducers of apoptosis. We have demonstrated thatAOPPaccumulation was correlated with age‐related bone loss. However, the effect ofAOPPs on the osteoblast apoptosis still remains unknown. Exposure of osteoblasticMC3T3‐E1 cells toAOPPs caused the excessive generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by activating nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidases. IncreasedROSinduced phosphorylation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs), which subsequently triggered intrinsic apoptosis pathway by inducing mitochondrial dysfunction, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and Ca2+overload and eventually leads to apoptosis. ChronicAOPPloading in aged Sprague‐Dawley rats induced osteoblast apoptosis and activatedNADPHoxidase signaling cascade, in combination with accelerated bone loss and deteriorated bone microstructure. Our study suggests thatAOPPs induce osteoblast apoptosis by theNADPHoxidase‐dependent,MAPK‐mediated intrinsic apoptosis pathway.
Metformin alleviates human cellular aging by upregulating the endoplasmic reticulum glutathione peroxidase 7
Authors: Fang Jingqi , Yang Jiping , Wu Xun , Zhang Gangming , Li Tao , Wang Xi'e , Zhang Hong , Wang Chih‐chen , Liu Guang‐Hui , Wang Lei
Published: April 2018

Metformin, an FDA‐approved antidiabetic drug, has been shown to elongate lifespan in animal models. Nevertheless, the effects of metformin on human cells remain unclear. Here, we show that low‐dose metformin treatment extends the lifespan of human diploid fibroblasts and mesenchymal stem cells. We report that a low dose of metformin upregulates the endoplasmic reticulum‐localized glutathione peroxidase 7 (GPx7). GP×7 expression levels are decreased in senescent human cells, and GPx7 depletion results in premature cellular senescence. We also indicate that metformin increases the nuclear accumulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), which binds to the antioxidant response elements in the GPX7 gene promoter to induce its expression. Moreover, the metformin‐Nrf2‐GPx7 pathway delays aging in worms. Our study provides mechanistic insights into the beneficial effects of metformin on human cellular aging and highlights the importance of the Nrf2‐GPx7 pathway in pro‐longevity signaling.
Inbreeding in an endangered killer whale population
Authors: Ford M. J. , Parsons K. M. , Ward E. J. , Hempelmann J. A. , Emmons C. K. , Bradley Hanson M. , Balcomb K. C. , Park L. K.
Published: April 2018

There are genetic risks associated with small population sizes, including loss of genetic diversity and inbreeding depression. The southern resident killer whale Orcinus orca population is a group of ~80 whales listed as ‘endangered’ under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. Recovery efforts are focused on increasing prey and reducing impacts from environmental disturbance, but the population's small size and insularity suggest that inbreeding depression could also be important. We analyzed genotypes at 68–94 nuclear loci from 105 individuals to refine a population pedigree to evaluate inbreeding and the relationship between multi‐locus heterozygosity and fitness. Our results expand upon an earlier study and shed new light on both inbreeding within this population and the mating patterns of killer whales. We found that only two adult males sired 52% of the sampled progeny born since 1990. Confirming earlier results, we found male reproductive success increased with age. Based on the pedigree, four sampled offspring were the result of inbred mating – two between a parent and offspring, one between paternal half‐siblings, and one between uncle and half‐niece. There is no evidence to date that the survival or fecundity of these individuals is lower than normal. There was some evidence for inbreeding depression in the form of a weakly supported relationship between multi‐locus heterozygosity and annual survival probability, but the power of our data to quantify this effect was low. We found no evidence of inbreeding avoidance in the population, but a late age of breeding success for males may indirectly limit the frequency of parent/offspring mating. The effective number of breeders in the population is currently ~26, and was estimated to have ranged from 12–53 over the past 40 years. The population that produced the oldest (pre‐1970) sampled individuals was estimated to have 24 effective breeders. Overall, our results indicate that inbreeding is likely common in the population, but the fitness effects continue to be uncertain.
Midwives’ and women's views on accessing dental care during pregnancy: an Australian qualitative study
Authors: Lim M , Riggs E , Shankumar R , Marwaha P , Kilpatrick N
Published: April 2018

Background

Maternal behaviours during pregnancy are likely to play a significant role in the development of dental caries in children. Although midwives are well placed to discuss oral health and provide information to women, dental attendance by women during pregnancy is minimal. This study aimed to explore midwives’ experience of facilitating pregnant women's access to dental care and to document women's experience of receiving dental information and care during pregnancy.

Methods

Focus groups with midwives and telephone interviews with women who were referred to Monash Health Dental Services were conducted to explore their perspectives and experiences. The qualitative data was thematically analysed.

Results

Three focus groups with 13 midwives and telephone interviews with eight women who recently gave birth were conducted. Three key themes were identified: maternal oral health knowledge; barriers to accessing dental information and care during pregnancy; and suggested recommendations.

Conclusions

This study highlighted the barriers that exist for midwives to discuss oral health with women and refer women to dental care, and women's experiences of accessing dental care during pregnancy. Ongoing collaboration between the maternity and dental services is required to strengthen midwives’ knowledge, confidence and practise in supporting women to access dental care during pregnancy.
Longevity of anterior resin‐bonded bridges: survival rates of two tooth preparation designs
Authors: Abuzar M , Locke J , Burt G , Clausen G , Escobar K
Published: April 2018

Background

Significant developments have occurred in the design of resin‐bonded bridges (RBB) over the past two decades. They are commonly used as an alternative treatment option for a single missing tooth. The longevity of these bridges needs to be further investigated to evaluate long‐term outcomes for this option to remain relevant.

Methods

A cohort of patients who received anterior resin‐bonded bridges (ARBB) over two decades was studied retrospectively. Longevity of 206 ARBB was assessed using Kaplan–Meier probability estimates. The two modified tooth preparation designs investigated were: (A) mesial and distal vertical grooves only; and (B) one proximal groove adjacent to the pontic and two palatal grooves. Age and gender of the patient cohort were also recorded.

Results

Overall survival rate of ARBB was 98% at 5 years, 97.2% at 10 years, and 95.1% from 12 years till 21 years. Survival curves showed minor differences when compared for the two designs, age groups and gender of ARBB recipients. Differences in the proportion of surviving bridges for design A (95.96%) and design B (98.13%) were not statistically significant (Fisher's exact test).

Conclusions

Anterior RBB with described tooth preparation designs demonstrate a high survival rate.
Integrated approach to oral health in aged care facilities using oral health practitioners and teledentistry in rural Queensland
Authors: Tynan Anna , Deeth Lisa , McKenzie Debra , Bourke Carolyn , Stenhouse Shayne , Pitt Jacinta , Linneman Helen
Published: April 2018

Problem

Residents of residential aged care facilities are at very high risk of developing complex oral diseases and dental problems. Key barriers exist in delivering oral health services to residential aged care facilities, particularly in regional and rural areas.

Design

A quality improvement study incorporating pre‐ and post chart audits and pre‐ and post consultation with key stakeholders, including staff and residents, expert opinion on cost estimates and field notes were used.

Setting

One regional and three rural residential aged care facilities situated in a non‐metropolitan hospital and health service in Queensland.

Key measures for improvement

Number of appointments avoided at an oral health facility

Feedback on program experience by staff and residents

Compliance with oral health care plan implementation

Observations of costs involved to deliver new service.

Strategies for change

The model developed incorporated a visit by an oral health therapist for screening, education, simple intervention and referral for a teledentistry session if required.

Effects of change

Results showed an improvement in implementation of oral health care plans and a minimisation of need for residents to attend an oral health care facility. Potential financial and social cost savings for residents and the facilities were also noted.

Lessons learnt

Screening via the oral health therapist and teledentistry appointment minimises the need for a visit to an oral health facility and subsequent disruption to residents in residential aged care facilities.
Using rotational thromboelastometry clot firmness at 5 minutes (ROTEM® EXTEM A5) to predict massive transfusion and in‐hospital mortality in trauma: a retrospective analysis of 1146 patients
Authors: Kelly J. M. , Rizoli S. , Veigas P. , Hollands S. , Min A.
Published: April 2018

Viscoelastic assays such as TEG® and ROTEM® are increasingly used to guide transfusion of blood products. The EXTEM assay maximum clot firmness (MCF) is a ROTEM measure available after 25–29 min used to guide early decisions. EXTEM A10, the clot firmness at 10 min, is an accepted early surrogate, but investigators differ on whether A5, the clot firmness at 5 min, is acceptable. We re‐examined this in a retrospective observational analysis of 1146 trauma patients in one centre who had ROTEM data recorded. A5 and A10 both correlated well with maximum clot firmness, with Pearson coefficients of r = 0.92 and r = 0.96, respectively. The correlations of A5, A10 and maximum clot firmness with requirement for massive transfusion were all similarly high, with c‐stats of 0.87, 0.89 and 0.90, respectively. The correlations with mortality were also similar but weaker, with c‐stats of 0.67, 0.69 and 0.69, respectively. Using a previously validated cut‐off of A5 < 35 mm to predict massive transfusion gave a sensitivity of 95%, specificity 83%, positive predictive value 9.3% and negative predictive value 100%. Using a value of A5 < 29 mm, for a pragmatic positive predictive value of 20%, gave a sensitivity of 67%, specificity 95% and negative predictive value 99%. Whether aiming for a high sensitivity or a strong predictive value, A5 was non‐inferior to A10 and actually missed fewer cases needing massive transfusion. A5 has similar utility to both A10 and maximum clot firmness as an early measure of clot firmness, and a low A5 value is strongly predictive of the need for massive transfusion.
Mortality after a cerebrovascular event in age‐related macular degeneration patients treated with bevacizumab ocular injections
Authors: Hanhart Joel , Comaneshter Doron S. , Vinker Shlomo
Published: April 2018

Purpose

To analyse the mortality associated with intravitreal injections of bevacizumab for age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) in patients previously diagnosed with stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA).

Methods

We reviewed bevacizumab‐treated AMD patients with a diagnosis of stroke or TIA prior to their first bevacizumab injection (n = 948). Those patients, naïve to any anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (anti‐VEGF) at the time of stroke/TIA, were then compared to age‐ and gender‐matched patients who had a stroke/TIA at the same time and had never been exposed to anti‐VEGF. Survival analysis was performed using adjusted Cox regression. The main outcome measure was survival. Adjusted variables were age, smoking, alcohol abuse, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, ischaemic heart disease, congestive heart failure and liver cancer.

Results

Age and gender distribution of bevacizumab‐treated patients and controls were similar (mean age: 83.4 versus 83.7 years, p = 0.3; 51.7% males versus 52.5% males, p = 0.7). The adjusted mortality in patients who received bevacizumab within 3 months after stroke/TIA was significantly different than in patients non‐exposed to bevacizumab (OR = 6.92, 95%, CI 1.88–25.43, p < 0.01). Within 6 months after stroke/TIA, the difference in adjusted mortality showed a strong trend (OR = 2.00, 95%, CI 0.96–4.16, p = 0.064). Within 12 months, it was insignificant (OR = 1.30, 95%, CI 0.75–2.26, p = 0.348).

Conclusion

We found increased mortality within three months after a cerebrovascular event in patients treated with bevacizumab for AMD compared to patients for whom there was no record of a prescription to any anti‐VEGF agent.
Psychological therapy for inpatients receiving acute mental health care: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of controlled trials
Authors: Paterson Charlotte , Karatzias Thanos , Dickson Adele , Harper Sean , Dougall Nadine , Hutton Paul
Published: April 2018

Objectives

The effectiveness of psychological therapies for those receiving acute adult mental health inpatient care remains unclear, partly because of the difficulty in conducting randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in this setting. The aim of this meta‐analysis was to synthesize evidence from all controlled trials of psychological therapy carried out with this group, to estimate its effects on a number of important outcomes and examine whether the presence of randomization and rater blinding moderated these estimates.

Method

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of all controlled trials of psychological therapy delivered in acute inpatient settings was conducted, with a focus on psychotic symptoms, readmissions or emotional distress (anxiety and depression). Studies were identified through ASSIA, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane, MEDLINE, and PsycINFO using a combination of the key terms ‘inpatient’, ‘psychological therapy’, and ‘acute’. No restriction was placed on diagnosis. The moderating effect of the use of assessor‐blind RCT methodology was examined via subgroup and sensitivity analyses.

Results

Overall, psychological therapy was associated with small‐to‐moderate improvements in psychotic symptoms at end of therapy but the effect was smaller and not significant at follow‐up. Psychological therapy was also associated with reduced readmissions, depression, and anxiety. The use of single‐blind randomized controlled trial methodology was associated with significantly reduced benefits on psychotic symptoms and was also associated with reduced benefits on readmission and depression; however, these reductions were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

The provision of psychological therapy to acute psychiatric inpatients is associated with improvements; however, the use of single‐blind RCT methodology was associated with reduced therapy‐attributable improvements. Whether this is a consequence of increased internal validity or reduced external validity is unclear. Trials with both high internal and external validity are now required to establish what type, format, and intensity of brief psychological therapy is required to achieve sustained benefits.

Practitioner points

Clinical implications:

This review provides the first meta‐analytical synthesis of brief psychological therapy delivered in acute psychiatric inpatient settings.

This review suggests that brief psychological therapy may be associated with reduced emotional distress and readmissions.

Limitations:

The evidence in this review is of limited quality.

The type, format, and intensity of brief psychological therapy required to achieve sustained benefits are yet to be established.
Finding an unfamiliar face in a line‐up: Viewing multiple images of the target is beneficial on target‐present trials but costly on target‐absent trials
Authors: Matthews Claire M. , Mondloch Catherine J.
Published: April 2018

When viewing unfamiliar faces, photographs of the same person often are perceived as belonging to different people and photographs of different people as belonging to the same person. Identity matching of unfamiliar faces is especially challenging when the photographs are of a person whose ethnicity differs from that of the observer. In contrast, matching is trivial when viewing familiar faces, regardless of race. Viewing multiple images of an own‐race target identity improves accuracy on a line‐up task when the target is known to be present (Dowsett et al., 2016, Q J Exp Psychol, 69, 1), suggesting that exposure to within‐person variability in appearance is key to face learning. Across three experiments, we show that viewing multiple images of a target identity also improves accuracy for other‐race faces on target‐present trials. However, viewing multiple images decreases accuracy (i.e., increases false alarms) on target‐absent trials for both own‐ and other‐race faces. We discuss the implications of our findings for models of face recognition and for forensic settings.
Envisioning Democracy: Participatory Filmmaking with Homeless Youth
Authors: Kennelly Jacqueline
Published: April 2018

This paper explores the democratic potential for participatory filmmaking with homeless youth, as well as the constraints and dilemmas associated with this visual method. Theorizing democracy through the work of Hannah Arendt and Pierre Bourdieu, the paper approaches democracy not as an end, but rather as a process that seeks to lessen social injustice. Bourdieu's work helps us appreciate, however, that this process is constrained by structures of inequality that shape access to the political dispositions that enable such engagement. Consistent with other research on low‐income and marginalized young people, this study found that homeless youth engage with democracy through forms of community participation and mutual support, and are disinclined to orient toward liberal democratic structures such as voting and political parties, which they see as harmful or problematic. With a focus on one particular dilemma faced by the research team—namely, the question of how to make sense of and represent the issue of legalizing marijuana, which had been signaled by the youth participants as of primary political importance to them—the paper uses Arendt and Bourdieu to discuss how participatory filmmaking can help to expand the space of appearances available to homeless youth in Canadian society, and create a space at a shared table of understanding with middle class power brokers.
Molecular pathogenesis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: Impact of passenger strand of pre‐miR‐148a on gene regulation
Authors: Idichi Tetsuya , Seki Naohiko , Kurahara Hiroshi , Fukuhisa Haruhi , Toda Hiroko , Shimonosono Masataka , Okato Atsushi , Arai Takayuki , Kita Yoshiaki , Mataki Yuko , kijima Yuko , Maemura Kosei , Natsugoe Shoji
Published: April 2018

We previously used RNA sequencing to establish the microRNA (miRNA) expression signature of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We found that both strands of pre‐miR‐148a (miR‐148a‐5p: the passenger strand and miR‐148a‐3p: the guide strand) were downregulated in cancer tissues. Ectopic expression of miR‐148a‐5p and miR‐148a‐3p significantly inhibited cancer cell migration and invasion, indicating that both strands of pre‐miR‐148a had tumor‐suppressive roles in PDAC cells. In silico database and genome‐wide gene expression analyses identified a total of 15 genes that were putative targets regulated by these miRNAs. High expression of miR‐148a‐5p targets (PHLDA2, LPCAT2 and AP1S3) and miR‐148a‐3p targets (SMA, ENDOD1 and UHMK1) was associated with poor prognosis of patients with PDAC. Moreover, knockdown of PHLDA2 expression inhibited cancer cell aggressiveness, suggesting PHLDA2 acted as an oncogene in PDAC cells. Involvement of the passenger strand of pre‐miR‐148a (miR‐148‐5p) is a new concept in cancer research. Novel approaches that identify tumor‐suppressive miRNA regulatory networks in lethal PDAC might provide new prognostic markers and therapeutic targets for this disease.
Odd‐skipped related 1 inhibits lung cancer proliferation and invasion by reducing Wnt signaling through the suppression of SOX9 and β‐catenin
Authors: Wang Yuan , Lei Lei , Zheng Yi‐Wen , Zhang Li , Li Zhi‐Han , Shen Hao‐Yue , Jiang Gui‐Yang , Zhang Xiu‐Peng , Wang En‐Hua , Xu Hong‐Tao
Published: April 2018

The odd‐skipped related 1 (OSR1) gene encodes a zinc‐finger transcription factor. The expression and significance of OSR1 in human tumors remains unclear. We found that OSR1 was downregulated in lung cancers, and its expression was correlated with poor differentiation. Overexpression of OSR1 by OSR1 gene transfection into H1299 cells (H1299‐OSR1) inhibited the proliferation and invasion of lung cancer cells. Knockdown of OSR1 with small interfering (si)RNA against OSR1 in A549 cells (A549‐siOSR1) enhanced the proliferation and invasion of lung cancer cells. Western blot analysis showed that the expression level of GSK3β increased, while that of p‐GSK3β, nuclear β‐catenin, cyclin D1, c‐Myc and matrix metallopeptidase 7 significantly decreased in the H1299‐OSR1 cells, and this pattern was reversed in the A549‐siOSR1 cells compared to that in the control cells. Furthermore, upregulation of sex‐determining region Y‐box 9 (SOX9) by SOX9 gene transfection increased the expression of β‐catenin, which was inhibited by OSR1. The mRNA and protein expression levels of SOX9 and β‐catenin were reduced in H1299‐OSR1 cells and increased in A549‐siOSR1 cells. In conclusion, the expression of OSR1 was more reduced in lung cancer tissues than in normal lung tissues, and was correlated with poor differentiation. OSR1 downregulated the activity of the Wnt signaling pathway by suppressing the expression of SOX9 and β‐catenin.