bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of phytoglobin in barley alters both compatible and incompatible interactions with the mildew pathogen Blumeria graminis
Authors: Sørensen C. K. , Carciofi M. , Hasler‐Sheetal H. , Zafari S. , Andrzejczak O. , Hovmøller M. S. , Møller I. M. , Hebelstrup K. H. 
Published: August 2018

This study showed how barley plants can be shifted in their response to isolates of the mildew pathogen Blumeria graminis with different host adaptation by overexpression of the barley phytoglobin gene HvHb1. At early infection stages, plants overexpressing phytoglobin (GPHb1) showed less papilla formation and more hypersensitive response against both virulent and avirulent pathogen isolates compared to the wildtype (WT) plants. The shift was most pronounced in a wheat‐adapted isolate (B. graminis f. sp. tritici). At later infection stages, GPHb1 plants infected with a virulent pathogen isolate (A6) showed less leaf chlorosis compared to the WT plants, indicating delayed senescence. The chlorophyll level was significantly higher in A6‐infected GPHb1 plants 9 days after inoculation (dai) and the senescence indicators sphingosine‐1‐phosphate:ceramide ratio and phytol content confirmed delayed senescence. At 14 dai the percentage of fungal DNA was significantly higher on the GPHb1 plants than on WT plants, probably as a result of the delayed senescence. The results show that overexpression of phytoglobin (previously known as plant haemoglobin) can be an important tool to understand disease‐related stress effects in plants of agronomic importance and for understanding basic resistance mechanisms. Studying this process in more detail may provide insights into how to alleviate stress‐related senescence in plants.
The neural signature of extracting emotional content from rapid visual streams at multiple presentation rates: A cross‐laboratory study
Authors: Bekhtereva Valeria , Pritschmann Ricarda , Keil Andreas , Müller Matthias M. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractThe steady‐state visual evoked potential (SSVEP), a neural signature of attentional resource allocation, is enhanced for affective compared to neutral visual scenes. Recently, it has been demonstrated that modulation of early visual cortex associated with viewing of unpleasant scenes presented in a rapid succession relies on emotional content extraction from each individual image shown in a rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) at 6 Hz (~167 ms per image). Against expectations, the SSVEP was reduced when viewing visual streams of unpleasant compared to neutral scenes. Here, we investigated to what extent that finding was limited to the 6 Hz rate and whether it generalizes to pleasant pictures. We recorded SSVEPs elicited by RSVP of neutral and emotional scenes presented at 3, 4, 6.67, and 8.57 Hz rates. We demonstrated that SSVEP amplitudes were enhanced for unpleasant compared to neutral images with a presentation rate of 3, 4, and 8.57 Hz. By contrast, SSVEP decreased for both pleasant and unpleasant relative to neutral RSVP streams shown at 6.67 Hz. Our findings suggest that a linear superposition of ERPs evoked by each individual image in an RSVP may lead to SSVEP amplitude patterns that increase or decrease the power at the driving frequency, which in turn might produce the observed differential emotional amplitude modulations. The results provide new methodological considerations for investigating temporal dynamics of early visual cortex modulation during sustained perception of affective scenes with SSVEP using RSVP paradigms.
Motivation alters implicit temporal attention through sustained and transient mechanisms: A behavioral and pupillometric study
Authors: Massar Stijn A. A. , Sasmita Karen , Lim Julian , Chee Michael W. L. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractTemporal expectations aid performance by allowing the optimization of attentional readiness at moment of highest target probability. Reward enhances cognitive performance through its action on preparatory and reactive attentional processes. To elucidate how motivation interacts with mechanisms of implicit temporal attention, we studied healthy young adult participants (N = 73) performing a sustained attention task with simultaneous pupillometric recording, under different reward conditions (baseline: 0 c; reward: 10 c/fast response). Target timing was temporally unpredictable (variable foreperiod: 2–10 s, uniformly distributed), in which case implicitly formed timing expectations. Trials were binned according to current foreperiod (FPn; short: 2–6 s; long: 6–10 s) and preceding foreperiod (FPn–1; short: 2–6 s; long: 6–10 s). Overall, performance data showed the expected temporal attention effects, with slower responses after shorter FPns, particularly when they followed longer FPn–1s. Moreover, these temporal effects were significantly reduced in the reward condition. While performance improved in all trial types, the largest benefit appeared in trials that were normally most disadvantaged by invalid temporal expectation. Furthermore, reward motivation was accompanied by an increase in sustained (prestimulus) and transient (poststimulus response) pupil diameter. The latter effect was particularly evident following short FPns. The current findings suggest that reward motivation can improve overall attentional performance and reduce implicit temporal bias, both through preparatory and reactive attentional mechanisms.
Measuring Subjective Probabilities: The Effect of Response Mode on the Use of Focal Responses, Validity, and Respondents’ Evaluations
Authors: Bruine de Bruin Wändi , Carman Katherine G. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractSubjective probabilities are central to risk assessment, decision making, and risk communication efforts. Surveys measuring probability judgments have traditionally used open‐ended response modes, asking participants to generate a response between 0% and 100%. A typical finding is the seemingly excessive use of 50%, perhaps as an expression of “I don't know.” In an online survey with a nationally representative sample of the Dutch population, we examined the effect of response modes on the use of 50% and other focal responses, predictive validity, and respondents’ survey evaluations. Respondents assessed the probability of dying, getting the flu, and experiencing other health‐related events. They were randomly assigned to a traditional open‐ended response mode, a visual linear scale ranging from 0% to 100%, or a version of that visual linear scale on which a magnifier emerged after clicking on it. We found that, compared to the open‐ended response mode, the visual linear and magnifier scale each reduced the use of 50%, 0%, and 100% responses, especially among respondents with low numeracy. Responses given with each response mode were valid, in terms of significant correlations with health behavior and outcomes. Where differences emerged, the visual scales seemed to have slightly better validity than the open‐ended response mode. Both high‐numerate and low‐numerate respondents’ evaluations of the surveys were highest for the visual linear scale. Our results have implications for subjective probability elicitation and survey design.
Semiparametric Dose Finding Methods: Special Cases
Authors: Clertant M. , O’Quigley J. 
Published: August 2018

SummaryA broad structure for the design and analysis of early phase clinical trials has recently been presented. The approach is described as being semiparametric in that the dose–toxicity function is modelled through a parameter of interest and a nuisance parameter. Although very general, the semiparametric method SPM allows for the possibility of specific calibration. In particular, it is shown that we can obtain identical operating characteristics of more richly parameterized designs such as the continual reassessment method. Here, we consider several other designs that have weaker parameterizations than the continual reassessment method, in particular the cumulative cohort distributions design, the modified toxicity probability interval design, the Bayesian optimal interval design and the keyboard design. We show that all of these designs are included, as special cases, in the semiparametric framework. It becomes immediately apparent how to structure any investigation into the operating characteristics of these designs as well as how to tune any design further with the purpose of improving on these characteristics. Simulations are provided to give added support to these findings.
Early postpartum discharge: maternal depression, breastfeeding habits and different follow‐up strategies
Authors: Verpe Hege , Kjellevold Marian , Moe Vibeke , Smith Lars , Vannebo Unni T. , Stormark Kjell Morten , Søvik Margaret Ljosnes , Skotheim Siv 
Published: August 2018

BackgroundIn most maternity wards in Norway, early discharge (<48 hour) is the norm. To monitor newborns’ and women's health during the first week after delivery, most maternity wards offer early check‐ups, where families return to the hospital (standard care). However, a few municipalities offer home visits by midwives (domiciliary care) to ensure seamless services for the family.AimThe primary aim of this study was to explore whether different follow‐up strategies were differently associated with maternal depression and breastfeeding habits, 6 weeks and 6 months postpartum. The secondary aim was to investigate whether families at risk of postpartum depression were included in the home visiting programme in the municipality that offered both follow‐up strategies.MethodThis study draws on data from the ‘Little in Norway’ (LIN) study, which followed families from pregnancy until the child was 18 months. This study used data from two different well‐baby clinics in two municipalities, where one offered standard care (n = 95) and the other domiciliary (n = 64) and standard care (n = 17). The Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to measure maternal depression. Breastfeeding habits were measured using a self‐report questionnaire. The Life Stress subscale of the Parenting Stress Index (PSI) was used to identify women at risk of postpartum depression.ResultsThere were no differences in maternal depressive symptoms or breastfeeding habits at neither 6 weeks nor 6 months postpartum between women who received standard or domiciliary care in the two municipalities. Within the municipality that offered both follow‐up strategies, a higher number of women scoring high on prenatal life stress were included in domiciliary – compared to standard care.ConclusionDifferential follow‐up strategies in the first week after birth did not impact on maternal depression or breastfeeding habits. However, domiciliary care seems to be regarded as supportive and nonstigmatising for women at risk of postpartum depression.
Collaborative challenges in the use of telecare
Authors: Bjørkquist Catharina , Forss Maria , Samuelsen Finn 
Published: August 2018

IntroductionAs a growing number of seniors with complex needs are living at home, the implementation of telecare has become a priority. This article aims to identify factors influencing inter‐ and intra‐organisational collaboration in Norwegian primary care. The focus is on collaboration in service provision for senior users with telecare solutions, in this case personal alarms.MethodsData were collected from two individual interviews with each of seven middle managers from four different units. Additionally, group interviews were conducted during two workshops, both with 16 and 17 front‐line staff members from four local authority units.ResultsChallenges and barriers to collaboration and integration were information flow and information sharing, unclear understanding of the division of duties between the units involved and their employees and the lack of meeting points between the emergency medical centre and home nursing. Interagency meetings between the purchasing office and home nursing enhance collaboration.ConclusionThe introduction of telecare does not simplify collaboration or improve services; technology does not solve collaboration challenges. Technology limits information to written form, which may not meet the needs of the service provider and user. Collaboration and integration require common strategies and leadership that implements them, including in telecare.
The influence of sleep disorders on the quality of life in patients with chronic low back pain
Authors: Uchmanowicz Izabella , Kołtuniuk Aleksandra , Stępień Aneta , Uchmanowicz Bartosz , Rosińczuk Joanna 
Published: August 2018

IntroductionLow back pain (LBP) is one of the most common pain syndromes, and its prevalence has increased significantly in the past three decades.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of insomnia and daytime sleepiness on the quality of life (QOL) of patients suffering from chronic back pain.Material and methodsIt is a cross‐sectional study conducted among 100 people (aged 25–75 years – mean age 49.53 ± 10.92) treated in a neurological clinic for chronic back pain lasting longer than 3 months. The diagnostic survey method was applied for the purposes of this study with the use of: the author's questionnaire and standardised questionnaires that is Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) and Polish version of WHO Quality of Life‐BREF questionnaire (WHOQOL‐BREF). The results were statistically analysed.ResultsAnalysis of the study material showed that 83% of patients suffered from insomnia (scored 6 or more points on the AIS) and 29% experienced mild daytime sleepiness. People who were more sleepy during the day were characterised by lower perception of the QOL (r = −0.034, p = 0.029) and lower perception of general health (r = −0.035, p = 0.04). Analysis of multiple variables (using linear regression) showed that independent predictor of the QOL in all domains is the result of the AIS questionnaire (p < 0.05).ConclusionsSleep disorders – both insomnia and daytime sleepiness – are a common health problem experienced by people with LBP. Insomnia is an important predictor affecting the QOL in people with LBP.
Adding vibration to high‐intensity intervals increase time at high oxygen uptake in well‐trained cyclists
Authors: Rønnestad Bent R. , Moen Maria , Gunnerød Sofia , Øfsteng Sjur 
Published: August 2018

The importance of accumulated time ≥90% of maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) to improve performance in well‐trained endurance athletes is well established. The present study compared the acute effects of adding vibrations (VIB; 40 Hz) with the work intervals during a high‐intensity cycling session (HIT) with a traditional HIT session without vibration (TRAD) on time ≥90% of VO2max, time ≥90% of peak heart rate (HRpeak), electromyography (EMG) activity, and mean power in well‐trained cyclists (n = 10, VO2max=78.6 ± 7.4 mL/min/kg). The order of VIB and TRAD was randomized and consisted of 6 × 5‐minutes work intervals performed with the highest possible mean power across the work intervals (2.5‐minutes standardized relief periods). VIB was superior to TRAD on time ≥90% of VO2max, (10.99 ± 7.00 vs 6.95 ± 5.28 minutes, respectively), time ≥90% of HRpeak (24.61 ± 2.38 vs 19.97 ± 4.12 minutes, respectively), and averaged EMG activity in m. Vastus Lateralis during the work intervals (all P < 0.05). The EMG/power output ratio across all work intervals was higher in VIB than TRAD (P < 0.05). Mean values across work intervals showed no difference between VIB and TRAD in mean power, rate of perceived exertion, or blood lactate concentration. Thus, the present study indicated that adding vibration to the work intervals during a HIT session can acutely increase the physiological responses of the cardiovascular system and increase time ≥90% VO2max and should therefore be considered in order to optimize the exercise stimulus of well‐trained cyclists.
Drug treatments associated with Achilles tendon rupture. A case‐control study involving 1118 Achilles tendon ruptures
Authors: Nyyssönen Timo , Lantto Iikka , Lüthje Peter , Selander Tuomas , Kröger Heikki 
Published: August 2018

The incidence of Achilles tendon (AT) rupture, especially nonsport‐related rupture, is increasing, while the reasons for this increase are largely unknown. The association between the AT rupture and the use of various drug treatments was studied. We collected AT rupture patients from the Finnish Hospital Discharge Register. We also acquired information about all the doctor‐prescribed drugs they had purchased within 1 year before the rupture. For comparison, we randomly selected age‐ and sex‐matched controls from the Finnish Population Register. There were 1118 AT rupture patients. Several drug groups had a statistically significant association with the AT rupture. Our study confirmed an association between fluoroquinolone antibiotics and AT rupture (OR 2.20, P = 0.005). A statistically significant association of renin‐angiotensin II receptor antagonists with tendon rupture (OR 7.59, P = 0.003) was a previously unreported finding. The increasing incidence of AT rupture, especially in middle‐aged and elderly patients, might partially be a consequence of the increased use of certain drug treatments. Some associations are probably explained by the symptomatic treatment of the painful tendon before the rupture.
Efficacy of brincidofovir as prophylaxis against HSV and VZV in hematopoietic cell transplant recipients
Authors: Lee Yeon Joo , Neofytos Dionysios , Kim Seong Jin , Cheteyan Leslie , Huang Yao‐Ting , Papadopoulos Esperanza B. , Jakubowski Ann A. , Papanicolaou Genovefa A. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractAllogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients are at risk for herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) infections. Routine prophylaxis with acyclovir is recommended during periods of immunosuppression. Brincidofovir (BCV, CMX001), a lipid conjugate of cidofovir, has shown in vitro activity against HSV/VZV, but has not been formally studied for HSV/VZV prophylaxis. We report our clinical experience of BCV for HSV/VZV prophylaxis in HCT recipients. This was a retrospective review of 30 hematopoietic cell transplant (HCT) recipients between 8/2010 and 8/2015 who received BCV doses not exceeding 200 mg/week for adults/adolescents and 4 mg/kg/week for pediatric (<12 years) patients, for ≥14 days BCV without concomitant acyclovir under clinical trials or single patient use. HSV/VZV cases during BCV treatment were confirmed by viral culture or PCR and clinical symptoms. Of 30 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 27 (90%) patients were adults and 22 (73%) patients received T‐cell depleted HCT. The most common indications for BCV were cytomegalovirus in 12 patients (40%) and adenovirus in 11 patients (37%). One patient was treated for acyclovir‐resistant HSV and one for disseminated VZV. There were two breakthrough cases of HSV infection during 2170 patient‐days. There were no cases of breakthrough VZV infection. The overall rate of breakthrough HSV infection was 1.0 per 1000 patient‐days, without any breakthrough VZV infections. Our study provides the only available—albeit limited—evidence on the potential efficacy of BCV for HSV/VZV prophylaxis in HCT patients. Additional studies are needed to further assess the efficacy and safety of BCV in the setting.
Chikungunya in solid organ transplant recipients, a case series and literature review
Authors: Rosso Fernando , Rodríguez Sarita , Cedano Jorge A. , Mora Barbara L. , Moncada Pablo A. , Velez Juan D. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractChikungunya virus is a recent emerging arbovirus in Latin America, and the clinical manifestations can vary from fever and rash to severe chronic inflammatory arthritis. Few reports have been published regarding this infection in immunocompromised patients, including solid organ transplant recipients. We report a case series of solid organ transplant recipients with confirmed Chikungunya infection by positive reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), identified between January 2014 and December 2016. In addition, we conducted a literature review searching PubMed, EMBASE, and LILACS databases on Chikungunya infection in solid organ transplant recipients. Ten solid organ transplant recipients were included, consisting of 5 kidney, 4 liver, and 1 liver/kidney transplant recipient. Mean age of the transplant recipients was 47 years, and the most frequent symptoms of Chikungunya infection were arthralgia and fever. None of the patients required treatment in the intensive care unit, no deaths or graft rejection occurred. None of our patients had recurrent arthritis during 3‐month follow‐up period after the infection. Twenty‐one cases of Chikungunya virus were identified in the literature review. Most cases had a benign clinical course with no severe complications, death, or chronic inflammatory arthritis. In conclusion, Chikungunya infection in solid organ transplant recipients has a benign course and has no chronic recurrent arthritis. It is possible that the immunosuppression regimen could decrease the risk of severe or chronic inflammatory manifestations in solid organ transplant recipients infected with Chikungunya.
A system for rapid and inexpensive treatment of sewage using the weed Eclipta prostrata in SHEFROL® bioreactor
Authors: Abbasi Shahid Abbas , Tauseef Syed Mohammad 
Published: August 2018

AbstractIn a first report of its kind, it is shown that the weed Eclipta prostrata is able to treat sewage rapidly and effectively when used in the novel sheet‐flow‐root‐level (SHEFROL®) bioreactor developed earlier by the authors. Besides extensive primary and secondary treatment in terms of removal of suspended solids, chemical oxygen demand and biological oxygen demand, E. prostrata was also able to substantially remove the excess nutrients which cause eutrophication (nitrogen and phosphorous) and the heavy metals copper, nickel and manganese. In this manner extensive secondary treatment was achieved along with significant primary and tertiary treatment. Equally significantly it was all accomplished in a single step and at hydraulic retention times (HRTs) of 6 h or less. The system promises to be highly inexpensive and efficient in treating sewage.