bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graft versus host disease after multivisceral transplantation: A UK center experience and update on management
Authors: Sharkey Lisa M. , Peacock Sarah , Russell Neil K. , Middleton Stephen J. , Butler Andrew J.
Published: March 2018

Graft versus host disease (GVHD) following transplantation of an intestine‐containing graft occurs more frequently than with other solid organ transplants and is known to have a poor outcome. The presentation differs from other solid organ transplants, as the gastrointestinal tract is not involved following intestinal transplant. Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms arising due to native tissue damage and the detection of donor T lymphocytes in circulating blood (T‐cell chimerism). The ideal treatment strategy has not been defined, with advocates for both increased and decreased immunosuppression. We reviewed all cases of GVHD in an adult intestinal transplant center in the United Kingdom and report on management strategies of five cases and methods of detecting T‐cell chimerism. The practice in our center has evolved with experience. The first two patients received an increase in immunosuppression, which was only successful in one case. Subsequently, reducing immunosuppression has been more effective. However, patients with bone marrow involvement have a poorer prognosis. We demonstrate successful treatment of GVHD after multivisceral transplant with a reduction in immunosuppression. This should be followed by vigilant graft surveillance and serial monitoring of the level of T‐cell chimerism, with reintroduction of immunosuppression at the earliest sign of graft dysfunction.
Symbouki: a meta‐analysis on the emergence of sound symbolism in early language acquisition
Authors: Fort Mathilde , Lammertink Imme , Peperkamp Sharon , Guevara‐Rukoz Adriana , Fikkert Paula , Tsuji Sho
Published: March 2018

Adults and toddlers systematically associate pseudowords such as “bouba” and “kiki” with round and spiky shapes, respectively, a sound symbolic phenomenon known as the “bouba‐kiki effect”. To date, whether this sound symbolic effect is a property of the infant brain present at birth or is a learned aspect of language perception remains unknown. Yet, solving this question is fundamental for our understanding of early language acquisition. Indeed, an early sensitivity to such sound symbolic associations could provide a powerful mechanism for language learning, playing a bootstrapping role in the establishment of novel sound–meaning associations. The aim of the present meta‐analysis (SymBouKi) is to provide a quantitative overview of the emergence of the bouba‐kiki effect in infancy and early childhood. It allows a high‐powered assessment of the true sound symbolic effect size by pooling over the entire set of 11 extant studies (six published, five unpublished), entailing data from 425 participants between 4 and 38 months of age. The quantitative data provide statistical support for a moderate, but significant, sound symbolic effect. Further analysis found a greater sensitivity to sound symbolism for bouba‐type pseudowords (i.e., round sound‐shape correspondences) than for kiki‐type pseudowords (i.e., spiky sound‐shape correspondences). For the kiki‐type pseudowords, the effect emerged with age. Such discrepancy challenges the view that sensitivity to sound symbolism is an innate language mechanism rooted in an exuberant interconnected brain. We propose alternative hypotheses where both innate and learned mechanisms are at play in the emergence of sensitivity to sound symbolic relationships.
Work‐related stress in a humanitarian context: a qualitative investigation
Authors: Jachens Liza , Houdmont Jonathan , Thomas Roslyn
Published: March 2018

There is a paucity of research on the subjective stress‐related experiences of humanitarian aid workers. Most evaluations of stress among these individuals focus on trauma and related conditions or adopt a quantitative approach. This interview‐based study explored how 58 humanitarian aid workers employed by a United Nations‐aligned organisation perceived the transactional stress process. The thematic analysis revealed eight main topics of interest: an emergency culture was found where most employees felt compelled to offer an immediate response to humanitarian needs; employees identified strongly with humanitarian goals and reported a high level of engagement; the rewards of humanitarian work were perceived as motivating and meaningful; constant change and urgent demands resulted in work overload; and managing work–life boundaries and receiving positive support from colleagues and managers helped to buffer perceived stress, work overload, and negative health outcomes. The practical implications of the results are discussed and suggestions made in the light of current research and stress theory.
Age correction in cognitive, linguistic, and motor domains for infants born preterm: an analysis of the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition developmental patterns
Authors: Morsan Valentina , Fantoni Carlo , Tallandini Maria Anna
Published: March 2018

Aim

To verify whether it is appropriate to use age correction for infants born preterm in all the developmental domains (cognitive, linguistic, and motor) considered by the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (Bayley‐III).

Method

Seventy‐three infants born preterm (26–35wks) without major neurological sequelae and 67 infants born at term were assessed at 12 months (corrected age for infants born preterm). The performance of the infants born preterm was assessed with two different evaluations: scores based on uncorrected age and scores based on corrected age.

Results

The developmental trends of infants born at term and infants born preterm differ across domains. Statistical analysis shows that age correction produces an overrated estimate of motor performance (12.5 points [95% confidence interval 9.05–16.01]) but not of cognitive performance.

Interpretation

Given the broad use of the Bayley‐III by psychologists and paediatricians, these results are important in the early diagnosis of developmental difficulties for children born preterm. Correction for gestational age should be applied for the cognitive domain only; whereas for the motor domain, chronological age should be used. No clear data emerged for language.

What this paper adds

Age correction with Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (Bayley‐III) for infants born preterm should be applied differently in cognitive, language, and motor domains.

Using corrected age with Bayley‐III, the motor skills are overrated.

Correction for preterm births adequately measures cognitive skills.

No clear indication emerged about language skills.
Contrasting effects on the risk of macrovascular and microvascular events of antihyperglycemic drugs that enhance sodium excretion and lower blood pressure
Authors: Packer M.
Published: March 2018

Three classes of anti‐hyperglycaemic medications are distinguished by their urinary sodium excretion‐enhancing and blood pressure‐lowering actions: long‐acting glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists, dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors and sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors. Yet, these drugs exert different effects on macrovascular risk. Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists reduce atherosclerotic thromboembolic events, but have little effect on heart failure; sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors decrease the occurrence of heart failure, but have minimal effect on myocardial infarction and stroke; and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors do not ameliorate either atherosclerotic thromboembolic events or heart failure. Similarly, the three classes of drugs differ in their early effects on renal function. Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors produce a small decrease in renal function that persists for the duration of treatment, and they do not prevent serious adverse renal events. For glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists, a small early decrease in renal function persists for 2 years and is superseded by a small improvement in renal function, with no effect on renal outcomes. In contrast, an initial decrease in glomerular filtration with sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors persists for only 1 year and is superseded by a durable improvement in renal function and a reduced risk of serious adverse renal events. These differences may be related to different actions on the proximal tubular reabsorption of sodium, and thereby, on glomerular hyperfiltration. Anti‐hyperglycaemic drugs that have natriuretic actions differ markedly in their ability to modulate macrovascular and microvascular risk. These contrasting profiles cannot be predicted by their effects on blood glucose or blood pressure.
The roles of foraging environment, host species, and host diet for a generalist pupal parasitoid
Authors: Reudler J.H. , van Nouhuys S.
Published: March 2018

Even for parasitoids with a wide host range, not all host species are equally suitable, and host quality often depends on the plant the host feeds on. We compared oviposition choice and offspring performance of a generalist pupal parasitoid,Pteromalus apum(Retzius) (Hymenoptera:Pteromalidae), on two congeneric hosts reared on two plant species under field and laboratory conditions. The plants contain defensive iridoid glycosides that are sequestered by the hosts. Sequestration at the pupal stage differed little between host species and, although the concentrations of iridoid glycosides in the two plant species differ, there was no effect of diet on the sequestration by host pupae. The rate of successful parasitism differed between host species, depending on the conditions they were presented in. In the field, where plant‐associated cues are present, the parasitoid usedMelitaea cinxia(L.) overMelitaea athalia(Rottemburg) (Lepidoptera:Nymphalidae), whereas moreM. athaliawere parasitised in simplified laboratory conditions. In the field, brood size, which is partially determined by rate of superparasitism, depended on both host and plant species. There was little variation in other aspects of offspring performance related to host or plant species, indicating that the two host plants are of equal quality for the hosts, and the hosts are of equal quality for the parasitoids. Corresponding to this, we found no evidence for associative learning by the parasitoid based on their natal host, so with respect to these host species they are truly generalist in their foraging behaviour.
Cold hardiness of Lymantria monacha and L. dispar (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) eggs to extreme winter temperatures: implications for predicting climate change impacts
Authors: Fält‐Nardmann Julia J. J. , Ruohomäki Kai , Tikkanen Olli‐Pekka , Neuvonen Seppo
Published: March 2018

1. It has been predicted that temperature increases of 3.6–5.8 °C would shift the northern distribution limit of Lymantria monacha (Linnaeus) and Lymantria dispar (Linnaeus) by 500–700 km, but these predictions ignore the effects of minimum winter temperatures. It was hypothesised that winter cold can limit range expansion due to high egg mortality in cold temperatures.

2. The present study determined the supercooling points of overwintering eggs of these forest pests, and compared these with recent minimum winter temperatures in the areas of origin of three populations. Eggs from one L. monacha and one L. dispar population from the species' core distribution area in Germany were included, as well as L. monacha eggs from Finland, near the northern border of the species' distribution.

3. The median supercooling points of both species were more than 10 °C lower than the median minimum winter temperatures of their areas of origin, and the median supercooling points of Finnish and German L. monacha eggs did not differ significantly. The median supercooling point of German L. monacha eggs differed from that of German L. dispar eggs.

4. Previous literature on the topic is referenced, and translations of the old German and Russian sources are given. Based on these results, it is argued that the frequent claim that L. monacha eggs can survive cold down to −40 °C is unsupported, with a value near −30 °C being a more likely limit.

5. Winter cold alone can limit the predicted range shifts of these species to 200–300 km under 3.6–5.8 °C increase scenarios, which is less than half the value of earlier estimates.
Clinicopathological characteristics of de novo and secondary myeloid sarcoma: A monocentric retrospective study
Authors: Claerhout Helena , Van Aelst Sophie , Melis Celine , Tousseyn Thomas , Gheysens Olivier , Vandenberghe Peter , Dierickx Daan , Boeckx Nancy
Published: March 2018

Objective

Diagnosing myeloid sarcoma remains challenging, and we aimed to provide clinicopathological features to facilitate diagnosis.

Method

Clinicopathological data from 41 patients with de novo and 31 with secondary myeloid sarcoma were reviewed.

Results

Most de novo cases presented with isolated myeloid sarcoma (n = 19) or myeloid sarcoma with concurrent acute myeloid leukemia (n = 15). Most secondary cases presented after acute myeloid leukemia (n = 11), myeloproliferative neoplasm (n = 9), or myelodysplastic syndrome (n = 8). Most frequent localizations were skin and lymph nodes. Immunohistochemistry showed immature and/or aberrant antigenic expression in 29% of de novo and 39% of secondary cases. Most genetic abnormalities were RUNX1‐RUNX1T1 (n = 4), CBFB‐MYH11 (n = 2), KMT2A‐MLLT3 (n = 2), and JAK2 V617F (n = 2) mutations in de novo myeloid sarcoma, and BCR‐ABL1 (n = 5) and KMT2A rearrangements (n = 2) in secondary cases. A complex karyotype was seen in 17% of de novo and 39% of secondary cases. Most prevalent treatment was induction chemotherapy followed by consolidation chemotherapy (n = 10) or allogeneic stem cell transplantation (n = 9) for de novo and radiotherapy (n = 11) for secondary cases.

Conclusion

De novo myeloid sarcoma mostly presented isolated. Lesions were often localized at skin and lymph nodes. Genetic aberrations frequently involved core‐binding factor rearrangements in de novo cases and a complex karyotype in secondary cases.
Screening and diagnostic clinical algorithm for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria: Expert consensus
Authors: Röth Alexander , Maciejewski Jaroslaw , Nishimura Jun‐Ichi , Jain Deepak , Weitz Jeffrey I.
Published: March 2018

Objective

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a severe, life‐threatening disorder for which early diagnosis is essential. However, given the rarity of the disease and non‐specificity of symptoms, correct diagnosis may be delayed or missed. While various hematologic guidelines note common signs and symptoms associated with PNH, international expert consensus based on real‐world clinical experience and an actionable algorithm for non‐specialists to facilitate screening and diagnosis are lacking. The objective of the study is to develop a clinically relevant, consensus‐driven screening and diagnostic algorithm on PNH for non‐specialist clinicians.

Methods

An expert advisory committee of PNH experts from North America, Europe, and Japan was convened, and a modified Delphi methodology was employed to develop an algorithm to assist non‐specialist clinicians in identifying signs/symptoms of PNH and conducting appropriate differential diagnosis. Twelve globally representative Delphi panelists with clinical expertise in PNH were identified and recruited. Panelists provided their differential diagnosis for 5 blinded case studies via 2 rounds of online questionnaires. Responses mentioned by >50% of panelists in the first round were included in the second‐round questionnaire, at which point consensus was attained if >80% of panelists agreed on an approach.

Results

Consensus was reached for 95% of screening and diagnostic decision points and 90% of tests required at decision points.

Conclusion

These results facilitated development of a consensus‐based, clinically relevant algorithm, providing non‐specialist clinicians with actionable guidance on PNH screening and diagnosis.
Ten lessons in 20 years: Insights from monitoring fauna and temperate woodland revegetation
Authors: Lindenmayer David , Michael Damian , Crane Mason , Florance Dan
Published: March 2018

In the last two decades, there has been enormous effort dedicated to better understanding how to restore and manage temperate native woodland vegetation in Australia's eastern wheat–sheep belt, and the consequences for fauna. This study presents ten of the most important lessons learned from the work to date by the Lindenmayer group at the Fenner School of Environment and Society at The Australian National University.
Performance of the Firms in a Free‐Trade Zone: The Role of Institutional Factors and Resources
Authors: Akbari Mohsen , Azbari Mostafa Ebrahimpour , Chaijani Milad Hooshmand
Published: March 2018

Many countries have tried to establish free zones in order to strengthen the competitive advantage of their local companies in global competition. Judging the role of free zones in the performance of companies without analyzing the relevant institutional factors can be confusing, especially in countries like Iran where the government extensively intervenes in the economy. In such economies, institutional factors (institutional support, political relationship, and legitimacy) coupled with resources (financial, human and physical resources) can be more effective at addressing companies’ performance. Using the resource‐based view (RBV) and institutional theory, this paper surveyed 151 companies located in the Anzali Free Trade and Industrial Zone (AFTIZ). The results show that the resources have a positive impact on the firms’ competitive advantage and performance. While institutional factors strengthen the resources, they do not moderate the relationship among resources, competitive advantage, and performance.
Validation of a specific PCR screening test for Pantoea stewartii subsp. stewartii in maize (Zea mays) samples
Authors: Nechwatal J. , Friedrich‐Zorn M. , Theil S. , Gebauer P. , Wensing A.
Published: March 2018

Validation data is presented for a conventional PCR test that specifically detects the quarantine pathogen Pantoea stewartii subsp. stewartii in maize leaf and seed samples and does not cross‐react with the non‐pathogenic P. stewartii subsp. indologenes. The PCR tests currently recommended by the EPPO Diagnostic Protocol PM 7/60 (2) for initial screening bear the risk of false positives as they detect both subspecies of P. stewartii. The test presented here has high analytical sensitivity (102 cells mL–1 in leaf extracts, at least 103 cells mL−1 in seed extracts), high repeatability and high reproducibility and performed well on the two matrices tested: maize seed and leaf extract. Its improved analytical specificity and analytical sensitivity compared to the currently recommended tests lead the authors to suggest that this test should be included as a first screening test in the diagnostic protocol for P. stewartii subsp. stewartii when it is next revised.
Placing RNA in context and space – methods for spatially resolved transcriptomics
Authors: Strell Carina , Hilscher Markus M. , Laxman Navya , Svedlund Jessica , Wu Chenglin , Yokota Chika , Nilsson Mats
Published: March 2018

Single‐cell transcriptomics provides us with completely new insights into the molecular diversity of different cell types and the different states they can adopt. The technique generates inventories of cells that constitute the building blocks of multicellular organisms. However, since the method requires isolation of discrete cells, information about the original location within tissue is lost. Therefore, it is not possible to draw detailed cellular maps of tissue architecture and their positioning in relation to other cells. In order to better understand the cellular and tissue function of multicellular organisms, we need to map the cells within their physiological, morphological, and anatomical context and space. In this review, we will summarize and compare the different methods of in situ RNA analysis and the most recent developments leading to more comprehensive and highly multiplexed spatially resolved transcriptomic approaches. We will discuss their highlights and advantages as well as their limitations and challenges and give an outlook on promising future applications and directions both within basic research as well as clinical integration.
New Evidence on the Effects of the Shortened School Duration in the German States: An Evaluation of Post-secondary Education Decisions
Authors: Meyer Tobias , Schneider Heidrun , Thomsen Stephan L.
Published: March 2018

Most German states have recently reduced the duration of university preparatory schooling from 13 to 12 years without changing the graduation requirements. We use nationwide data on high school graduates and the different timing of reform introduction in the federal states to identify the effects on post-secondary education decisions and to evaluate potential effect mechanisms. The results show that university enrolment of female students decreased in the first year after graduation in all analyzed states, whereas participation in voluntary service or staying abroad increased. Furthermore, students from non-academic families are more affected than students from an academic family background.
Patterns of Seismicity Associated with USGS Identified Areas of Potentially Induced Seismicity
Authors: Barnes Caitlin , Halihan Todd
Published: March 2018

A systematic review across U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) identified potentially induced seismic locations was conducted to discover seismic distance patterns and trends over time away from injection disposal wells. Previous research indicates a 10 km (6 miles) average where the majority of induced seismicity is expected to occur within individual locations, with some areas reporting a larger radius of 35 km (22 miles) to over 70 km (43 miles). This research analyzed earthquake occurrences within nine USGS locations where specified wells were identified as contributors to induced seismicity to determine distance patterns from disposal wells or outward seismic migration over time using established principles of hydrogeology. Results indicate a radius of 31.6 km (20 miles) where 90% of felt earthquakes occur among locations, with the closest proximal felt seismic events, on average, occurring 3 km (1.9 miles) away from injection disposal wells. The results of this research found distance trends across multiple locations of potentially induced seismicity.
Predictors of adverse outcome in uterine smooth muscle tumours of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP): a clinicopathological analysis of 22 cases with a proposal for the inclusion of additional histological parameters
Authors: Gupta Mamta , Laury Anna L , Nucci Marisa R , Quade Bradley J
Published: March 2018

Aims

The current World Health Organisation classification defines smooth muscle tumours of uncertain malignant potential (STUMPs) as neoplasms that cannot be diagnosed reliably as benign or malignant according to generally accepted criteria. This has led to the application of various sets of criteria; consequently, consistent and reliable outcome data are lacking. The aims of this study were: (i) to compare the frequency of adverse outcome in STUMP on the basis of enhanced criteria; and (ii) to perform failure analysis to identify feature(s) helpful in predicting outcome

Methods and results

Cases of STUMP diagnosed between 1994 and 2009 were retrieved and follow‐up data were collected. Morphological parameters were scored and correlated with outcome. Twenty‐two subjects with a median follow‐up of 74.5 months (range, 26–166 months) formed the study group. Their age ranged from 31.9 years to 51.8 years (median, 45.3 years). Sixteen subjects underwent hysterectomy and six underwent myomectomy. Adverse outcomes were noted in eight (36.4%) cases. In cases with adverse outcomes, notable features included moderate–severe nuclear atypia (seven), epithelioid features (one), infiltrative or irregular margins (five), atypical mitoses (two), and vascular intrusion (three)

Conclusions

The frequency of adverse outcomes in our series (36.4%) was higher than that in previously published reports (7–26.7%), suggesting that the use of more stringent criteria can exclude some patients from further follow‐up. Although ‘significant’ nuclear atypia was not discriminatory, its frequent association with adverse outcomes has pathobiological implications. The presence of necrosis was not particularly associated with adverse outcomes. Atypical mitoses, epithelioid differentiation, vascular involvement and infiltrative/irregular margins appear to herald adverse outcomes, and therefore merit inclusion in the diagnostic regimen.
Effectiveness of nurse‐led video interventions on anxiety in patients having percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Haddad Nibras E. , Saleh Mohammad N. , Eshah Nidal F.
Published: March 2018

Aim

Managing anxiety is essential to control anxiety‐related complications. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a nurse‐led video‐based educational intervention on anxiety levels among patients undergoing a percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods

A pre‐test, post‐test quasi‐experimental design was used. Between June 2015 and July 2016, 99 participants were allocated to comparison versus intervention groups, and a video‐based educational intervention about the percutaneous coronary intervention was provided to the intervention group. The State Anxiety Inventory was used to measure anxiety levels at baseline, 2 hours before, and 4 to 6 hours after a percutaneous coronary intervention.

Results

After providing the video‐based intervention, at 2 hours before the procedure, results showed a statistically significant difference in anxiety mean scores (33.08 versus 60.88) between the intervention and comparison groups, respectively (P < 0.001). At 4 to 6 hours after the procedure, the anxiety mean score for the intervention group (M = 24.1) was statistically significantly lower than that of the comparison group (M = 44.17; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A pre‐procedure nurse‐led educational intervention provided by video had a significant effect on reducing anxiety levels among patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients in the intervention group experienced a steady and consistent trend of anxiety reduction pre‐cutaneous and post‐percutaneous coronary intervention.
Predicting the likelihood of venous leg ulcer recurrence: The diagnostic accuracy of a newly developed risk assessment tool
Authors: Finlayson Kathleen J. , Parker Christina N. , Miller Charne , Gibb Michelle , Kapp Suzanne , Ogrin Rajna , Anderson Jacinta , Coleman Kerrie , Smith Dianne , Edwards Helen E.
Published: March 2018

The aim of this study was to validate a newly developed tool for predicting the risk of recurrence within 12 months of a venous leg ulcer healing. Performance of the tool to predict recurrence within a 12‐month period was assessed using Area Under the Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (AUC) analysis. Multi‐site retrospective and prospective longitudinal studies were undertaken to validate a risk assessment tool for the recurrence of venous leg ulcers within 12 months. In the retrospective study (n = 250), 55% of venous leg ulcers recurred within 12 months, and the risk assessment total score had excellent discrimination and goodness of fit with an AUC of 0.83 (95% CI, 0.76‐0.90, P < .001). The prospective study (n = 143) observed that 50.4% (n = 63) of venous leg ulcers recurred within 12 months of healing. Participants were classified using the risk assessment tool as being at low risk (28%), moderate risk (59%), and high risk (13%); the proportion of wounds recurring at 12 months was 15%, 61%, and 67% for each group, respectively. Validation results indicated good discrimination and goodness of fit, with an AUC of 0.73 (95% CI, 0.64‐0.82, P < .001). Validation of this risk assessment tool for the recurrence of venous leg ulcers provides clinicians with a resource to identify high‐risk patients and to guide decisions on adjunctive, tailored interventions to address the specific risk factors to decrease the risk of recurrence.
First‐principles study in an inter‐granular glassy film model of silicon nitride
Authors: Ching Wai‐Yim , Yoshiya Masato , Adhikari Puja , Rulis Paul , Ikuhara Yuichi , Tanaka Isao
Published: March 2018

Based on a previously constructed intergranular glassy film (IGF) model for bulk silicon nitride, a large periodic model of 3864 atoms containing 2 grains of different orientations from the main bulk β‐Si3N4 and 2 IGFs was fully relaxed using the ab initio density‐functional theory package VASP. The relaxed structure was then used to calculate the electronic structure, density of states, interatomic bonding, partial charge distribution, and electron localization using the OLCAO method. Analysis of the data focuses on the interfacial regions between bulk β‐Si3N4 and the Si‐O‐N glass layer with different orientations. The total bond order density (TBOD) is evaluated in different interfacial and bulk regions. We show minor differences in the internal cohesion between crystalline grains of different facets. However, the overall charges in the bulk crystal grains and in the glassy regions are electropositive which are balanced by the negatively charged interfacial region between the two. The presence of a less rigid glassy layer is the reason for structural flexibility in ceramics without a huge penalty in the steric energy. The optimization of the interfacial structure and bonding via the creation of defective sites is the atomic origin for the existence of the IGF in silicon nitride. The insights obtained from this detailed quantum mechanical analysis of a realistic IGF model are discussed including implications on the strength, fracture toughness, and processing methods. We also discuss the potential applications of our method to other complex materials systems.
CiRS‐7 targeting miR‐7 modulates the progression of non‐small cell lung cancer in a manner dependent on NF‐κB signalling
Authors: Su Chongyu , Han Yi , Zhang Hongtao , Li Yunsong , Yi Ling , Wang Xiaojue , Zhou Shijie , Yu Daping , Song Xiaoyun , Xiao Ning , Cao Xiaoqing , Liu Zhidong
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study was to figure out the effect of ciRS‐7/miR‐7/NF‐κB axis on the development of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In response, the expressions of ciRS‐7, miR‐7 and NF‐κB subunit (ie RELA) within NSCLC tissues and cell lines were determined with real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and Western blot. Moreover, the NSCLC cells were transfected with pcDNA3‐ciRS‐7‐ir, pcDNA3‐ciRS‐7, miR‐NC and miR‐7 mimic. Furthermore, the targeted relationships between ciRS‐7 and miR‐7, as well as between miR‐7 and RELA, were confirmed by luciferase reporter assay. The proliferation, migration and apoptosis of NSCLC cells were, successively, measured using CCK‐8 assay, wound‐healing assay and flow cytometry test. Consequently, ciRS‐7, miR‐7, histopathological grade, lymph node metastasis and histopathological stage could independently predict the prognosis of patients with NSCLC (all P < .05). Moreover, remarkably up‐regulated ciRS‐7 and RELA expressions, as along with down‐regulated miR‐7 expressions, were found within NSCLC tissues and cells in comparison with normal ones (P < .05). Besides, overexpressed ciRS‐7 and underexpressed miR‐7 were correlated with increased proliferation, migration and invasion, yet reduced apoptosis rate of NSCLC cells (P < .05). More than that, ciRS‐7 specifically targeted miR‐7 to reduce its expressions (P < .05). Ultimately, the NSCLC cells within miR‐7 + RELA group were observed with superior proliferative, migratory and invasive capabilities than those within miR‐7 group (P < .05), and RELA expression was also significantly modified by both ciRS‐7 and miR‐7 (P < .05). In conclusion, the ciRS‐7/miR‐7/NF‐kB axis could exert pronounced impacts on the proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of NSCLC cells.
S1PR3 is essential for phosphorylated fingolimod to protect astrocytes against oxygen‐glucose deprivation‐induced neuroinflammation via inhibiting TLR2/4‐NFκB signalling
Authors: Dong Yin‐Feng , Guo Ruo‐Bing , Ji Juan , Cao Lu‐Lu , Zhang Ling , Chen Zheng‐Zhen , Huang Ji‐Ye , Wu Jin , Lu Jun , Sun Xiu‐Lan
Published: March 2018

Fingolimod (FTY720) is used as an immunosuppressant for multiple sclerosis. Numerous studies indicated its neuroprotective effects in stroke. However, the mechanism remains to be elucidated. This study was intended to investigate the mechanisms of phosphorylated FTY720 (pFTY720), which was the principle active molecule in regulating astrocyte‐mediated inflammatory responses induced by oxygen‐glucose deprivation (OGD). Results demonstrated that pFTY720 could protect astrocytes against OGD‐induced injury and inflammatory responses. It significantly decreased pro‐inflammatory cytokines, including high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α). Further, studies displayed that pFTY720 could prevent up‐regulation of Toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR2), phosphorylation of phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) p65 subunit caused by OGD. Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate receptor 3 (S1PR3) knockdown could reverse the above change. Moreover, administration of TLR2/4 blocker abolished the protective effects of pFTY720. Taken together, this study reveals that pFTY720 depends on S1PR3 to protect astrocytes against OGD‐induced neuroinflammation, due to inhibiting TLR2/4‐PI3K‐NFκB signalling pathway.
Retracted: MicroRNA‐140‐5p elevates cerebral protection of dexmedetomidine against hypoxic–ischaemic brain damage via the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway
Authors: Han Xin‐Rui , Wen Xin , Wang Yong‐Jian , Wang Shan , Shen Min , Zhang Zi‐Feng , Fan Shao‐Hua , Shan Qun , Wang Liang , Li Meng‐Qiu , Hu Bin , Sun Chun‐Hui , Wu Dong‐Mei , Lu Jun , Zheng Yuan‐Lin
Published: March 2018

Hypoxia–ischaemia (HI) remains a major cause of foetal brain damage presented a scarcity of effective therapeutic approaches. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) and microRNA‐140‐5p (miR‐140‐5p) have been highlighted due to its potentially significant role in the treatment of cerebral ischaemia. This study was to investigate the role by which miR‐140‐5p provides cerebral protection using DEX to treat hypoxic–ischaemic brain damage (HIBD) in neonatal rats via the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway. The HIBD rat models were established and allocated into various groups with different treatment plans, and eight SD rats into sham group. The learning and memory ability of the rats was assessed. Apoptosis and pathological changes in the hippocampus CA1 region and expressions of the related genes of the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway as well as the genes responsible of apoptosis were detected. Compared with the sham group, the parameters of weight, length growth, weight ratio between hemispheres, the rate of reaching standard, as well as Bcl‐2 expressions, were all increased. Furthermore, observations of increased levels of cerebral infarction volume, total mortality rate, response times, total response duration, expressions of Wnt1, β‐catenin, TCF‐4, E‐cadherin, apoptosis rate of neurons, and Bax expression were elevated. Following DEX treatment, the symptoms exhibited by HIBD rats were ameliorated. miR‐140‐5p and si‐Wnt1 were noted to attenuate the progression of HIBD. Our study demonstrates that miR‐140‐5p promotes the cerebral protective effects of DEX against HIBD in neonatal rats by targeting the Wnt1 gene through via the negative regulation of the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway.
Progress in scaffold‐free bioprinting for cardiovascular medicine
Authors: Moldovan Nicanor I.
Published: March 2018

Biofabrication of tissue analogues is aspiring to become a disruptive technology capable to solve standing biomedical problems, from generation of improved tissue models for drug testing to alleviation of the shortage of organs for transplantation. Arguably, the most powerful tool of this revolution is bioprinting, understood as the assembling of cells with biomaterials in three‐dimensional structures. It is less appreciated, however, that bioprinting is not a uniform methodology, but comprises a variety of approaches. These can be broadly classified in two categories, based on the use or not of supporting biomaterials (known as “scaffolds,” usually printable hydrogels also called “bioinks”). Importantly, several limitations of scaffold‐dependent bioprinting can be avoided by the “scaffold‐free” methods. In this overview, we comparatively present these approaches and highlight the rapidly evolving scaffold‐free bioprinting, as applied to cardiovascular tissue engineering.
Street foods in Beirut city: An assessment of the food safety practices and of the microbiological quality
Authors: Loukieh Myriam , Mouannes Emilio , Abou Jaoudeh Chantal , Hanna Wakim Lara , Fancello Francesco , Bou Zeidan Marc
Published: March 2018

Street food is a prevalent part of the food service industry. It is convenient in terms of accessibility and cost, but perceived as potential risk of foodborne illness. Accordingly, the safety of street foods in Beirut, Lebanon was assessed using an observational checklist and microbiological analyses. A total of 30 vendors were observed for their food safety parameters and 60 samples were analyzed for their content of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria spp., and Salmonella spp., then, statistical analyses were performed for possible correlations. Results showed unsatisfactory levels of foodborne pathogens. Microbiological contamination was significantly correlated to unproper environmnental surroundings, deficiency of potable water, money handling, inappropriate methods of refrigeration, and the limited access to improper disposal facilities near stalls. These findings reveal the microbiological quality of street foods served in Beirut, and highlight on the practices to be ameliorated to provide safe street food products to consumers.

Practical applications

Street food emerges as a social adaptation in urban areas due to its rapid lifestyle hence it may present a public health risk due to various factors. The current study is the first of its kind to be conducted in Beirut and its results present solid basis for further practices at different levels. Divulgation of its results would lead to new governmental laws to protect the public health and reduce the economic burdens related to hospitalization due to foodborne pathogens and poisoning. Educational institutions would also be involved in applications related to training and awareness sessions for street food handlers, to teach them the good hygienic practices. This study will also help consumers identify good and bad hygienic practices thus choose appropriate street food handlers.
Prior Work and Educational Experience Are Not Associated With Successful Completion of a Master's‐Level, Distance Education Midwifery Program
Authors: Niemczyk Nancy A. , Cutts Alison , Perlman Dana B.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

In order to increase and diversify the midwifery workforce, admissions criteria for midwifery education programs must not contain unnecessary barriers to entry. Once accepted, students need to successfully complete the program. Many admissions criteria commonly used in midwifery education programs in the United States are not evidence based and could be unnecessary barriers to education. The primary objective of this study was to identify factors known during the admission process that were related to successful completion or failure to complete a midwifery program educating both student nurse‐midwives (SNMs) and student midwives (SMs); a secondary objective was to quantify reasons for program noncompletion.

Methods

This master's‐level, distance education program educates a diverse group of both SNMs and SMs. A pilot, retrospective cohort study examined all students matriculating at the program from fall 2012 on and scheduled to graduate by summer 2016 (N = 58). Demographic information, admissions information, academic records, and advising notes were reviewed. Reasons for noncompletion were identified, and characteristics were compared between students who did and did not complete the program.

Results

Program completion was not significantly associated with students’ status as nurses prior to admission, labor and delivery nursing experience, length of nursing experience, nursing degree held, presence of children at home, working while in school, or undergraduate grade point average.

Discussion

Being a nurse, years of nursing experience, type of nursing degree, or labor and delivery nursing experience were not associated with completion of this midwifery program.
Patterns of Sensitivity to Parenting and Peer Environments: Early Temperament and Adolescent Externalizing Behavior
Authors: Tung Irene , Noroña Amanda N. , Morgan Julia E. , Caplan Barbara , Lee Steve S. , Baker Bruce L.
Published: March 2018

Although parenting behavior and friendship quality predict adolescent externalizing behaviors (EBs), individual differences in temperament may differentially affect susceptibility to these factors over time. In a multi‐method and multi‐informant study of 141 children followed prospectively from toddlerhood to adolescence, we tested the independent and interactive associations of age 3 reactive temperament (e.g., negative emotionality) and age 13 observed parenting (i.e., positive and negative behavior) and friendship (i.e., conflict and warmth), with multi‐informant ratings of age 15 aggression and rule‐breaking behavior. Negative parenting predicted growth in parent‐rated EB, but only for adolescents with early reactive temperament. Temperament did not affect sensitivity to positive parenting or friendship. Results are discussed in the context of differential susceptibility theory and intervention implications for adolescents.
Use and Efficacy of Information Technology in Innovation Processes: The Specific Role of Servitization
Authors: Kroh Julia , Luetjen Heiner , Globocnik Dietfried , Schultz Carsten
Published: March 2018

Innovation activities and, particularly, service innovations, impose high demands on a firm's information processing capabilities. IT tools are supposed to support internal and external information flows, thereby improving a firm's information processing capabilities. However, past research is indecisive about how IT tools influence innovation performance. Furthermore, past research has not considered that services have an increasingly relevant role in a firm's innovation portfolio that can complicate information processing. This study therefore draws on information processing theory and service innovation literature to develop a conceptual model that explains how IT use intensity—depending on the firm's business focus—affects innovation program performance. By using a cross‐industry, multi‐informant sample of the innovation programs of 116 firms, which were collected from 887 informants, this article provides empirical evidence that (i) intensive IT use in order to exchange information with internal and external stakeholders improves the firm‐wide market knowledge, which in turn has a positive impact on a firm's innovation program performance; (ii) the performance impact of market knowledge becomes stronger with increasing degrees of servitization; (iii) a higher degree of servitization reduces IT's use intensity. This research demonstrates the dilemma that servitized firms face: Their business focus hinders the use of IT tools, although the latter will enable them to gain more benefits from the improved market knowledge they create.

Practitioner Points

Intensive IT use positively influences the firm‐wide innovation performance. The intensive use of IT tools to strengthen internal information flows and IT tools to support exchange with external stakeholders increase a firm's market knowledge, which enhances the innovation program performance.

Service innovations have higher information requirements than product innovations and profit therefore more from intensive IT use, but services' complexity hinders IT implementation.

Firms with a higher degree of servitization use less IT, although they can profit more from the market knowledge IT tools create. Servitized firms need to install a flexible, modular, and open IT system for efficient IT use and to include all relevant internal and external stakeholders.
Intellectual property rights and informal sector innovations: Exploring grassroots innovations in India
Authors: Sharma Gautam , Kumar Hemant
Published: March 2018

The primary driver for innovations in the formal sector is credited to the institution of patenting. Intellectual property rights (IPRs) as the extrinsic motivational factor have supported innovations by firms and industries which have a large market and resources to commercialise their products. Grassroots innovations, on the other hand, represent a culture of individual innovators outside formal sector who innovate out of adversity, curiosity and needs. Most of the innovators have cited intrinsic motivation behind the innovation and are unaware of IPR. However, there is a paucity of literature on the relation between IPR and innovations in the informal sector. Drawing on the literature on IPR and innovations in the formal sector, we examine whether the same theories and rationales apply to a different nature of innovations in the informal sector. This is an exploratory study and to map the current scenario of patenting for grassroots innovations secondary data were collected from the National Innovation Foundation (NIF) website. To understand the innovators’ perception, we interviewed them through various means and on different sites. The study finds that although there was no initial intention to innovate for extrinsic incentives like patenting, there is an increasing trend in filing patents for grassroots innovations by the NIF in India.
Comparative and functional anatomy of the mantle margin in ark clams and their relatives (Bivalvia: Arcoidea) supports association between morphology and life habits
Authors: Audino J. A. , Marian J. E. A. R.
Published: March 2018

Evaluating the association between ecology and the evolution of morphological traits is a central question of macroevolutionary studies. The Arcoidea comprises several lineages of epibyssate (epifaunal) and endobyssate (semi‐infaunal or infaunal) bivalves, which makes them a suitable model for analyzing the implications of similar life habits on phenotype. Also, the families currently assigned to the clade (Arcidae, Cucullaeidae, Glycymerididae, and Noetiidae) exhibit great variation in the mantle margin, a region responsible for interacting with the surrounding environment and provided with sensory structures (e.g., photoreceptor organs). Consequently, this anatomical region includes traits relevant for testing hypotheses of morphological attributes associated with lifestyles. For this purpose, we investigated the detailed anatomy of the mantle margin of three arcoidean species (i.e., Arca imbricata, Barbatia candida, and Arcopsis adamsi) applying integrative microscopy, and complemented the study with basic morphological analysis of 27 species obtained in museum collections. Secretory cells, muscle fibers and sensory organs are described in detail, including sensory ciliated cells of the inner mantle fold, reported for the first time. Our results corroborate a very reduced to absent middle fold in arcoideans, with transfer of sensory functions to the first outer and inner folds. Moreover, our data indicates association of some pallial characters with life habits, i.e., presence of pallial pigmentation and photoreceptor organs in epibyssates, and development of an enlarged pallial curtain in endobyssates, which should stimulate further investigations on these potentially adaptive morphological features.