bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining ecologically relevant scales for spatial protection with long‐term data on an endangered seabird and local prey availability
Authors: Sherley Richard B. , Botha Philna , Underhill Les G. , Ryan Peter G. , van Zyl Danie , Cockcroft Andrew C. , Crawford Robert J.M. , Dyer Bruce M. , Cook Timothée R.
Published: March 2017

Human activities are important drivers of marine ecosystem functioning. However, separating the synergistic effects of fishing and environmental variability on the prey base of nontarget predators is difficult, often because prey availability estimates on appropriate scales are lacking. Understanding how prey abundance at different spatial scales links to population change can help integrate the needs of nontarget predators into fisheries management by defining ecologically relevant areas for spatial protection. We investigated the local population response (number of breeders) of the Bank Cormorant (Phalacrocorax neglectus), a range‐restricted endangered seabird, to the availability of its prey, the heavily fished west coast rock lobster (Jasus lalandii). Using Bayesian state‐space modeled cormorant counts at 3 colonies, 22 years of fisheries‐independent data on local lobster abundance, and generalized additive modeling, we determined the spatial scale pertinent to these relationships in areas with different lobster availability. Cormorant numbers responded positively to lobster availability in the regions with intermediate and high abundance but not where regime shifts and fishing pressure had depleted lobster stocks. The relationships were strongest when lobsters 20–30 km offshore of the colony were considered, a distance greater than the Bank Cormorant's foraging range when breeding, and may have been influenced by prey availability for nonbreeding birds, prey switching, or prey ecology. Our results highlight the importance of considering the scale of ecological relationships in marine spatial planning and suggest that designing spatial protection around focal species can benefit marine predators across their full life cycle. We propose the precautionary implementation of small‐scale marine protected areas, followed by robust assessment and adaptive‐management, to confirm population‐level benefits for the cormorants, their prey, and the wider ecosystem, without negative impacts on local fisheries.
Mitral valve coaptation and its relationship to late diastolic flow: A color Doppler and vector flow map echocardiographic study in normal subjects
Authors: Sherrid Mark V. , Kushner Josef , Yang Georgiana , Ro Richard
Published: March 2017

Background

Three competing theories about the mechanism of mitral coaptation in normal subjects were evaluated by color Doppler and vector flow mapping (VFM): (1) beginning of ventricular (LV) ejection, (2) “breaking of the jet” of diastolic LV inflow, and (3) returning diastolic vortices impacting the leaflets on their LV surfaces.

Methods and Results

We analyzed 80 color Doppler frames and 320 VFM measurements. In all 20 normal subjects, coaptation occurred before LV ejection, 78±16 ms before onset. On color Doppler frames the larger anterior, and smaller posterior vortices circle back and, in all cases, strike the ventricular surfaces of the leaflets. On the first closing‐begins frame, for the first time, vortex velocity normal to the ventricular surface of the anterior leaflet (AML) is greater than that in the mitral orifice, and the angle of attack of LV vortical flow onto the AML is twice as high as the angle of flow onto the valve in orifice. Thus, at the moment coaptation begins, vortical flow strikes the mitral leaflet with higher velocity, and higher angle of attack than orifice flow, and thus with greater force. According to the “breaking of the jet” theory, one would expect to see de novo LV flow perpendicular to the leaflets beginning after transmitral flow terminates. Instead, the returning continuous LV vortical flow that impacts the valve builds continuously after the P‐wave.

Conclusions

Late diastolic vortices strike the ventricular surfaces of the mitral leaflets and contribute to valve coaptation, permitted by concomitant decline in transmitral flow.
Large left circumflex coronary artery with a fistula to superior vena cava: Diagnosis by echocardiography
Authors: Liu Yunqi , Liu Yanqiu , Xiong Mai , Li Hanzhao , Liu Donghong , Zhang Xi
Published: March 2017

The left circumflex coronary artery associated with a fistula to superior vena cava is a rare entity. We describe a 7‐year‐old girl who presented with a cardiac murmur and was diagnosed with a coronary artery fistula between the left circumflex artery and superior vena cava by echocardiography. The surgical occlusion of the fistula was successful.
Roles of microRNAs in psoriasis: Immunological functions and potential biomarkers
Authors: Liu Qing , Wu Ding‐Hong , Han Ling , Deng Jing‐Wen , Zhou Li , He Rui , Lu Chuan‐Jian , Mi Qing‐Sheng
Published: March 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNA molecules, which function in RNA silencing and post‐transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease characterized by the dysfunction of keratinocytes, with the immune dysregulation. We reviewed the recent studies on the roles of miRNAs in psoriasis and showed that miRNAs play key roles in psoriasis, including the regulation of hyperproliferation, cytokine and chemokine production in keratinocyte, as well as mediating immune dysfunction in psoriasis. Furthermore, miRNAs, particularly, circulating miRNAs may serve as novel biomarkers for diagnosis, monitoring therapy response and reflecting the disease severity. Thus, targeting specific miRNAs may be used to develop new therapeutic methods for psoriasis.
Do Administrative Boundaries Matter for Uneven Economic Development? A Case Study of China's Provincial Border Counties
Authors: Zhang Xuebo , Li Cansong , Li Wei , Song Jinping , Yang Chengfeng
Published: March 2017

This paper uses China's provincial border counties as samples to explore the role played by administrative boundaries in uneven regional economic development. The results indicate that the gap between provincial border counties and other regions is increasing and that economic diffusion to provincial border counties from developed regions is extremely weak. Moreover, provincial border counties have become economically backward. A regression analysis model that includes certain novel factors that are likely to influence economic growth confirms the significant effects of government intervention and administrative boundaries on economic growth in provincial border counties. This paper concludes that administrative boundaries' effects should be nullified by limiting preferential development policies and implementing policies that instead help provincial border counties engage in sustainable development.
Flower use of the butterfly Maniola jurtina in nectar‐rich and nectar‐poor grasslands: a nectar generalist with a strong preference?
Authors: Lebeau Julie , Wesselingh Renate A. , Van Dyck Hans
Published: March 2017

Butterflies are often considered as opportunistic nectar consumers that visit a range of flower species. The degree of specialisation in foraging behaviour and flower choice may, however, vary considerably at the inter‐specific level, from highly specialised to generalist species. In generalist nectar use, there can be intra‐specific variation in the availability and use of floral resources (diversity and abundance) among different populations. Knowing the preferences of nectar‐feeding butterflies can increase the understanding of ecological relationships and resource use and help in developing better strategies for butterfly conservation.

By means of behavioural tracking, we identified foraging patterns of Maniola jurtina butterflies in nectar‐rich and nectar‐poor grasslands. For both males and females, we showed significant preference for the brown knapweed Centaurea jacea and thistles (Cirsium sp.) in nectar‐rich, extensively managed grasslands. In the absence of these preferred species, as is typically the case in nectar‐poor intensively managed sites, M. jurtina nectared on Trifolium pratense and Leucanthemum vulgare. Flower visits were on average shorter on T. pratense compared to C. jacea. These observational results were confirmed by a field experiment in which a wild flower nectar array with C. jacea and T. pratense was introduced.

In extensively managed grasslands, foraging bouts were generally confined to patches of flowering plants and did not involve long flights between flower visits. In intensively managed meadows, butterflies performed longer flights, and ignored more flowers between two consecutive visits. Despite the variety of flower species visited, M. jurtina showed a significant preference for a few nectar sources in a context‐dependent way.
Resistance to cyclic fatigue of PathFile, ScoutRaCe and ProGlider glide path files in an S‐shaped canal
Authors: Topçuoğlu H. S. , Topçuoğlu G. , Düzgün S.
Published: March 2017

Aim

To compare the cyclic fatigue resistance (CFR) of PathFile, ProGlider and ScoutRaCe nickel‐titanium (NiTi) rotary instruments used in an S‐shaped artificial canal.

Methodology

A total of 90 instruments were tested in an S‐shaped artificial canal (n = 30 for each group: PathFile (size 16, 2% constant taper), ProGlider (size 16, variable taper between 2% and 8% along the shaft) and ScoutRaCe (size 15, 2% constant taper). All files were rotated until fracture. The number of cycles to failure was counted to determine CFR. The length of each fractured fragment was measured in millimetres. The CFR was analysed statistically with the Kruskal–Wallis test. The fragment length was analysed using one‐way analysis of variance and Tukey's post hoc tests.

Results

The ProGlider instruments were associated with significantly greater CFR than the PathFile and ScoutRaCe files in the apical curvature (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between the CFR of the PathFile and ScoutRaCe files in the apical curvature (P > 0.05). ProGlider, PathFile and ScoutRaCe instruments exhibited similar CFR in the coronal curvature (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The ProGlider files had greater cyclic fatigue resistance than the PathFile and ScoutRaCe files in the apical curvature of an artificial S‐shaped canal.
Management of radiodermatitis associated with cetuximab in squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck
Authors: Villavicencio Michelle , Granados‐García Martin , Vilajosana Esther , Domínguez‐Cherit Judith
Published: March 2017

The objective of this review is to report to the medical community the most recent knowledge on prevention and management of dermatitis with the use of cetuximab simultaneously with radiotherapy in the treatment of squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck. A review was conducted in PubMed of English language publications between 2010 and 2015. The search employed the terms ‘skin toxicity’, ‘radiodermatitis’, ‘cetuximab’, ‘radiotherapy’, and ‘head and neck cancer’. Data related to the classification and management of dermatitis, associated with cetuximab with concomitant radiotherapy (n = 22), were critically reviewed. We conclude that dermatitis associated with bioradiotherapy is a predictable, treatable, and reversible event that does not affect administration of therapy or its clinical outcome when treated appropriately.
Sobre La Controvertida Identificacion de Lepra Dimorfa Con Lepra “Borderline”
Authors: Jonquières Enrique D. L.
Published: March 2017

El autor es partidario del concepto ampliado de lepra dimorfa que, según Khanolkar y Cochrane y otros autores, incluye formas maculares. Cree que la lepra dimorfa evoluciona en tres etapas : una p rim e ra macular, alaque sigue una v ariedad subreaccional, p a ra finalmente alcanzar en un 50% de los casos una etap a reaccional. Identifica a esta última con la lepra borderline de Wade y Rodriguez. Por lo tanto el cuadro borderline ten d ría alcance más restringido que el de la lepra dimorfa ya que solo se trata de una “ reacción dimorfa .” El concepto de lepra dimorfa que sustenta elautor difiere un tan to de los de Wade y de Cochrane, pués opina que este grupo no proviene de los tipos polares como piensa el p rimero, ni es comienzo obligado de “toda lepra ” según la opinión del segundo. Cree que es una forma particular de lepra cuyos mecanismos inmunológicos están mal ajustados pero no totalmente ausentes. Aunque con la práctica puede diagnosticarse en sus primeros estadios, reconoce que solo puede afirma rse el diagnóstico por el quadro evolutivo; importante para el diagnóstico de dimorfo es el cuadro reaccional ( borderline) que en sus aspectos clínicos coincide con la “infiltración aguda ” de Tajiri y con la “seudoexacerbación tuberculoide de los lepromatosos en tra tam ie n to sulfónico” de Souza Lima y Rath de Souza. Fuera de este aspecto la reacción dimorfa difiere de la lepromatosa por carecer de eritem a nudoso.

Los hallasgos bacteriológicos, inmunológicos e histopatológicos de la primera etap a de la lepra dimorfa configuran, según el concepto clásico, una lep ra lepromatosa. Empero durante los episodios reaccionales, que pueden se r múltiples y repetidos, se aproxima clínicamente a la lepra tu berculoide reaccional.
Streptosporangium Bovinum sp. Nov. from Cattle Hoofs
Authors: Batista A. Chaves , Shome S. K. , de Lima J. Americo
Published: March 2017

The paper describes Streptosporangium bovinum Batista, Shome and Lima n. sp., a new species isolated from cattle hoofs in the State of Alagôas, in Brazil.

Taxonomically, the new species differs from S. Album, S. viridialbum, S. amethystogenes and S. vulgaris by its cultural characteristics, with production of pigment in various media, and by its physiologic properties. Morphologically, it does not show any marked distinction from other species; it presents delicate mycelium, 0.6 to 1 µ in diameter, septate and hyaline, and forms yellowish‐cream, circular colonies with concentric zonation, granular to velvety surface, 1.2 to 3.0 cm. in diameter, within three weeks, in nutrient media. The mycelium shows fragmentation similar to that of Streptomyces, with terminal or lateral, globose sporangia 5 to 7 p in diameter, and sporangiospores of 1.2‐1.5 x 0.8‐1.0 µ.

The microorganism was isolated from the hoofs and lesions in surrounding areas of three bulls which exhibited marked restriction of motion apparently caused by pain associated with the infection. The infected hoofs showed vertical cracks and some concentric brownish‐black patches. When material from the hoofs was placed in a humid chamber, yellow, circular colonies of Streptosporangium, 1 to 3 mm. in diameter, appeared.

Inoculation of the pathogen on guinea pigs yielded negative results. Treatment of the infected animals with penicillin injections and local application of copper sulfate solution (3%) resulted in the cure of the animals.
Actividad Quimidterapica Sobre El Mycobacterium Leprae En Animales Con Dietas Prooxidantes
Authors: Bergel Meny
Published: March 2017

Se describen métodos de valoración de actividad quimioterápica sobre el M. leprae en roedores (ratas y ratones) alimentados con dietas prooxidantes, de bajo contenido en vitamina E y alto en ácidos grasos no saturados. Con estos métodos, en experiencias preliminares, se pudo demostrar la actividad antimicobacteriana sobre el M. leprae de la diaminodifenilsulfona, del Ciba 1906, y del Ciba 6704. Estos métodos pueden ser empleados en ensayos quimioterápicos en serie.
Oxydase‐Positive Paramyeloblastoma in the So‐Called Lymphoma Syndrome in African Children
Authors: Hasselman C. M.
Published: March 2017

Summary and Conclusions

The relevant histopathology of the condition hitherto called lymphoma syndrome in African children displays in the vast majority of cases a very primitive, immature type of cell, with fine neutrophilic granules in the cytoplasm, sometimes with lobated nuclei, occasionally multinuclear larger cells, and sometimes with eosinophiles.

The first case of a typically oxydase‐positive paramyeloblastoma is presented and briefly described; it was seen in the ovarian metastases of such a tumor in a nine‐year‐old girl in Kampala, Uganda.

Apart from the very immature stem cells from either the reticuloendothelial or lymphoid group, the cell elements of such tumors may, in fact, be true myelocytes and myeloblasts, as proved by their oxydase‐positive staining characteristics and pertinent enzyme contents. These view findings combined with the obvious osseous tumor origin confirm that the term “lymphoma syndrome” is a misnomer, and that the entire concept of the complex pathogenesis shoidd be thoroughly reassessed.
Eccrine Spiradenoma with Cyst Formation, Cylindroma and Trichoepithelioma
Authors: Reiss Frederick , Prose Philip
Published: March 2017

An unusual combination of eccrine spiradenoma, with cyst formation, cylindroma and trichoepithelioma in a 57‐year‐old white female is reported.
Systemic Absorption of Topical Salicylic Acid
Authors: Birmingham B. K. , Greene D. S. , Rhodes C. T.
Published: March 2017

The systemic absorption of salicylic acid in humans following topical application in either hydrophilic ointment or polyethylene glycol 400 vehicle was studied. Drug absorption was minimal following application to intact skin; however, measurable levels (8 mg/dl) were attained when the stratum corneum was removed prior to application of the drug in hydrophilic ointment. A one‐compartment open model with first order absorption and elimination processes was fitted to the plasma salicylate concentrations as a function of time. Computer simulations predict that plasma salicylate levels associated with toxicity in some patients may be present after repetitive application of the drug in hydrophilic ointment.
Zein/tannic acid complex nanoparticles‐stabilised emulsion as a novel delivery system for controlled release of curcumin
Authors: Zou Yuan , Zhong Jingjing , Pan Runting , Wan Zhili , Guo Jian , Wang Jinmei , Yin Shouwei , Yang Xiaoquan
Published: March 2017

The present work was aimed to evaluate the potential of the gel‐like Pickering emulsions (50%, v/v, oil) stabilised by zein/tannic acid (TA) complex colloidal particles (ZTPE) as a new encapsulation system of lipophilic ingredients. Compared with sodium caseinate‐stabilised emulsions (SCE) and bulk oil, the better protective effects of ZTPE on the chemical stability of curcumin were observed when they suffered from UV light, and the lipid oxidation rate remarkably reduced in ZTPE. Also, the zein particle layers loaded with TA around the oil droplets can provide protection against harsh gastric environment, facilitating to slow down the release of free fatty acids (FFA) and curcumin during in vitro simulated digestion. These findings show that ZTPE have a good potential to act as an efficient encapsulating agent to protect functional ingredients from degradation and control their release during digestion, which can further improve the bioavailability of bioactive ingredients.
Quality of life and scar evolution after negative pressure or conventional therapy for wound dehiscence following post‐bariatric abdominoplasty
Authors: Limongelli Paolo , Casalino Giuseppina , Tolone Salvatore , Brusciano Luigi , Docimo Giovanni , del Genio Gianmattia , Docimo Ludovico
Published: March 2017

No studies have examined scars and quality of life after different treatments of wound dehiscence in patients undergoing post‐bariatric abdominoplasty. Scars and quality of life of patients with postoperative wound dehiscence managed with negative pressure wound therapy (group A) and conventional wound therapy (group B) were reviewed 6 months after wound healing. Of 38 patients undergoing treatment for wound dehiscence after 203 abdominoplasty, 35 (group A = 14 versus group B = 21) entered the study. Wound healing in group A was significantly faster than group B (P = 0·001). Patients (P = 0·0001) and observers (P = 0·0001) reported better overall opinions on a scar assessment scale for group A. Better overall quality of life and general health satisfaction were observed in group A (P < 0·05). A significant correlation was observed between the World Health Organization Quality of Life scores and Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale scores (r=−0·68, P < 0·0001) in all 35 patients. Negative pressure wound therapy is feasible and effective in patients with wound dehiscence following post‐bariatric abdominoplasty. An adequate post‐treatment outcome is achieved compared with conventional wound therapy in light of a strong association found between worse patient scar self‐assessment and poor overall quality of life, regardless of the received treatment.
Left ventricular hypertrophy in athletes and hypertensive patients
Authors: Lovic Dragan , Narayan Puneet , Pittaras Andreas , Faselis Charles , Doumas Michael , Kokkinos Peter
Published: March 2017

Systemic hypertension and physical exercise are both associated with cardiac adaptations. The impact is most prominent on the left side of the heart, which hypertrophies leading to left ventricular hypertrophy. This article reviews structural and functional cardiac changes seen in hypertensive and athlete's hearts.
New Directions For Foster Care Reform
Authors: Wald Michael S.
Published: March 2017

Since the 1970s, legislatures and courts have adopted a variety of approaches to address foster care's overuse, instability, and lack of permanence. Most reforms focused on rules and procedures. It appears that there has been progress with respect to each of these issues, but the foster care system still has many deficiencies. It is unlikely that further changes in legal standards will significantly improve the system; the core issues relate to implementation of good practices. The foster care system now responds to three types of problems: protecting children from parental maltreatment; helping children who exhibit severe behavioral problems; and dealing with families experiencing high levels of parent‐child conflict. Services should be redesigned to reflect differences in the issues presented by the three populations.
Reconciling Conflicting Policy Objectives in Public Contracting: The Enabling Role of Capabilities
Authors: Cabral Sandro
Published: March 2017

This paper analyses how capabilities can reconcile conflicting objectives in policy driven public contracting. Results obtained from a quasi‐experiment involving a policy intervention to favour small firms (SMEs) in Brazil show that public manager's contract‐management capabilities can promote cost savings, increased responsiveness (government‐level outcomes), and enhanced buyer‐supplier coordination when favoured firms are successful in public contracting. Execution capabilities of private suppliers positively influence firm‐level outcomes by attenuating the severity of sanctions against favoured firms due to deficient provision. The paper highlights the mechanisms for leveraging performance in public‐private interactions when conflicting goals are present despite inherent contract incompleteness and bureaucratic rigidity, thus adding to the current knowledge of strategic management in the context of public organizations.
Social Value Creation in Inter‐Organizational Collaborations in the Not‐for‐Profit Sector – Give and Take from a Dyadic Perspective
Authors: Weber Christiana , Weidner Kathrin , Kroeger Arne , Wallace James
Published: March 2017

Organizations in the not‐for‐profit (NFP) sector are increasingly collaborating with other organizations to mutually raise overall joint value created. However, literature on inter‐organizational collaborations in the NFP sector lacks a clear, empirically proven understanding about which factors drive such joint value creation and whether and how these factors and their effects differ for the two parties involved. Based on the relational view and an analysis of 121 partnership dyads, we identify that some factors governing the successful creation of joint value differ for the two partners while others are relevant to both parties. Those latter factors, in turn, differ in their effects on the respective outcome.
Melatonin protects against lipid‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction in hepatocytes and inhibits stellate cell activation during hepatic fibrosis in mice
Authors: Das Nabanita , Mandala Ashok , Naaz Shamreen , Giri Suresh , Jain Mukul , Bandyopadhyay Debasish , Reiter Russel J. , Roy Sib Sankar
Published: March 2017

Lipid generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in consequence to mitochondrial fission followed by inflammation in propagating hepatic fibrosis. The interaction of SIRT1/Mitofusin2 is critical for maintaining mitochondrial integrity and functioning, which is disrupted upon excess lipid infiltration during the progression of steatohepatitis. The complex interplay between hepatic stellate cells and steatotic hepatocytes is critically regulated by extracellular factors including increased circulating free fatty acids during fibrogenesis. Melatonin, a potent antioxidant, protects against lipid‐mediated mitochondrial ROS generation. Lipotoxicity induces disruption of SIRT1 and Mitofusin2 interaction leading to mitochondrial morphological disintegration in hepatocytes. Further, fragmented mitochondria leads to mitochondrial permeability transition pore opening, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis and melatonin protects against all these lipotoxicity‐mediated dysfunctions. These impaired mitochondrial dynamics also enhances the cellular glycolytic flux and reduces mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate that potentiates ROS production. High glycolytic flux generates metabolically unfavorable milieu in hepatocytes leading to inflammation, which is abrogated by melatonin. The melatonin‐mediated protection against mitochondrial dysfunction was also observed in high‐fat diet (HFD)‐fed mice through restoration of enzymatic activities associated with respiratory chain and TCA cycle. Subsequently, melatonin reduces hepatic fat deposition and inflammation in HFD‐fed mice. Thus, melatonin disrupts the interaction between steatotic hepatocyte and stellate cells, leading to the activation of the latter to abrogate collagen deposition. Altogether, the results of the current study document that the pharmacological intervention with low dose of melatonin could abrogate lipotoxicity‐mediated hepatic stellate cell activation and prevent the fibrosis progression.
Haptic Search in Divided Areas: Optimizing the Number of Divisions
Authors: Kaga Hirotsugu , Kawaguchi Chihiro , Mishina Midori , Kita Shinichi , Watanabe Tetsuya
Published: March 2017

The present study investigates the efficiency of haptic search facilitated by the division of the searchable area. Previous studies have shown that scales provided around tactile maps for blind persons can shorten the search time for tactile symbols on the maps, but the optimum number of divisions has not been found. We conducted an experiment in which maps with different numbers of divisions were presented to blindfolded participants. The search times for tactile targets on the maps were measured and a movie that recorded searching behavior was analyzed. Our results indicate that scales with 3 × 4 divisions minimize search time, and the movie analysis reveals that this optimization is determined by the time of both scale‐counting and target‐searching. This finding elucidates the manner of human haptic search and should be utilized for the optimization of automated tactile map creation.
Bilateral sacroiliac luxation fixation using a single transiliosacral pin: surgical technique and clinical outcomes in eight cats
Authors: Parslow A. , Simpson D. J.
Published: March 2017

Objectives

A very limited safe anatomical window for transiliosacral implant placement exists in cats (<0·5 cm2). Lag screw fixation requires multiple bilateral implants thus increasing the risk of iatrogenic trauma and implant interference. We describe a safe and effective method for bilateral sacroiliac fixation in cats using a single implant to minimise inadvertent iatrogenic damage to local structures and restore pelvic canal diameter.

Materials and Methods

Eight cats underwent surgical fixation for traumatic bilateral sacroiliac luxation using a single smooth intramedullary pin. The pin spanned both ilial wings and sacrum. Implants were applied using a Universal C‐guide. Pre‐ and postsurgery pelvic canal diameter ratios were calculated. Short‐term follow‐up was performed at 10 to 14 days postoperatively. Long‐term follow‐up was performed using the Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index Questionnaire. Long‐term radiographic assessment was available in two cases.

Results

The technique achieved safe and accurate implant position with precise sacroiliac joint reduction. Pelvic canal diameter ratios were restored to normal in all cases. Rapid return to normal hind leg function and excellent long‐term clinical outcomes were achieved.

Clinical Significance

This technique offers a simple, safe, repeatable and affordable technique for treating bilateral sacroiliac luxations in the cat without the aid of fluoroscopy. The procedure can be performed using surgical tools and inventory readily available in general small animal practices.
Predicting children's fussiness with vegetables: The role of feeding practices
Authors: Holley Clare E. , Haycraft Emma , Farrow Claire
Published: March 2017

Vegetables are commonly rejected by children, making it is important to consider factors that are associated with children's fussiness with vegetables. The current study aimed to investigate whether fussiness with vegetables is associated with a number of factors including caregiver and child vegetable consumption; caregivers' general feeding practices; and caregivers' vegetable‐specific feeding practices. Caregivers (N = 297) of preschool children completed questionnaire measures of their child's fussiness with vegetables, as well as several caregiver and child factors hypothesised to be associated with children's fussiness with vegetables. Findings indicate that children who are fussier with vegetables consume a smaller quantity of vegetables and that almost all have caregivers who eat a smaller quantity of vegetables. Children's fussiness with vegetables was not significantly related to any general feeding practices used by caregivers. However, children's fussiness with vegetables was significantly associated with the use of several vegetable specific feeding practices. Caregivers of fussier children used more encouragement/pressure to eat with vegetables (r = 0.14, p = .01), hid vegetables within other foods more often (r = 0.30, p = <.01), used more food rewards for vegetable consumption (r = 0.19, p <.01), more other rewards for vegetable consumption (r = 0.21, p < .01), and compromised more when feeding vegetables (r = 0.14, p = .01). These findings suggest that rather than caregivers' general feeding practices being related to children's fussiness with vegetables, the specific feeding practices used when vegetables are rejected are more significant. It may therefore be helpful to develop advice for caregivers about which feeding practices to avoid when faced with a child who is fussy about eating vegetables.
Predictors and measurement of satisfaction with postpartum care in a government hospital
Authors: Zeyneloğlu Simge , Kısa Sezer , Özberk Hülya , Badem Aysun
Published: March 2017

Abstract

In this study, the predictors of satisfaction with postpartum care at a government hospital were evaluated. The descriptive research sample included 300 mothers in their postpartum period. Data were collected using a questionnaire and the Postpartum Nursing Care Evaluation Scale. The regression analysis undertaken showed that mothers who received prenatal care had a significantly higher evaluation score (compared to those who had not received prenatal care), as had mothers who had a caesarean delivery (compared to vaginal birth), as well as those who had received support from friends and relatives during their postpartum period (compared to those who did not receive such support). Our recommendation is that postpartum nursing care be improved for mothers who deliver vaginally, have not received prenatal care, were unintentionally pregnant, and have problems with breastfeeding. The results will help nurses who work with an international population of postpartum women to give professional, systematic, and patient‐centered care to postpartum mothers in order to increase patient satisfaction.
Professional Rescuers’ experiences of motivation for cardiopulmonary resuscitation: A qualitative study
Authors: Assarroudi Abdolghader , Heshmati Nabavi Fatemeh , Ebadi Abbas , Esmaily Habibollah
Published: March 2017

Rescuers' psychological competence, particularly their motivation, can improve the cardiopulmonary resuscitation outcomes. Data were collected using semistructured interviews with 24 cardiopulmonary resuscitation team members and analyzed through deductive content analysis based on Vroom's expectancy theory. Nine generic categories were developed: (i) estimation of the chance of survival; (ii) estimation of self‐efficacy; (iii) looking for a sign of effectiveness; (iv) supportive organizational structure; (v) revival; (vi) acquisition of external incentives; (vii) individual drives; (viii) commitment to personal values; and (ix) avoiding undesirable social outcomes. When professional rescuers were called to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation, they subjectively evaluated the patient's chance of survival, the likelihood of achieving of the desired outcome, and the ability to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation interventions. If their evaluations were positive, and the consequences of cardiopulmonary resuscitation were considered favorable, they were strongly motivated to perform it. Beyond the scientific aspects, the motivation to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation was influenced by intuitive, emotional, and spiritual aspects.
Petrocodon urceolatus sp. nov. (Gesneriaceae) from Zhangjiajie city, northwestern Hunan Province, China
Authors: Cen Hua‐Fei , Fu Long‐Fei , Wen Fang
Published: March 2017

Petrocodon urceolatus F. Wen, H.F. Cen & L.F. Fu, a new species of Gesneriaceae, is described and illustrated from Zhangjiajie city, Hunan Province, China. Morphologically it resembles P. scopulorum (Chun) Y.Z. Wang in the corolla, but differs in several characters including the shape, length and indumentum of the leaf blade, and the length and indumentum of the stamens and staminode. In addition to morphological description, we provide ecological information, geographic distribution and conservation status for this species.
Identifying gene coexpression networks underlying the dynamic regulation of wood‐forming tissues in Populus under diverse environmental conditions
Authors: Zinkgraf Matthew , Liu Lijun , Groover Andrew , Filkov Vladimir
Published: March 2017

Trees modify wood formation through integration of environmental and developmental signals in complex but poorly defined transcriptional networks, allowing trees to produce woody tissues appropriate to diverse environmental conditions.

In order to identify relationships among genes expressed during wood formation, we integrated data from new and publically available datasets in Populus. These datasets were generated from woody tissue and include transcriptome profiling, transcription factor binding, DNA accessibility and genome‐wide association mapping experiments. Coexpression modules were calculated, each of which contains genes showing similar expression patterns across experimental conditions, genotypes and treatments.

Conserved gene coexpression modules (four modules totaling 8398 genes) were identified that were highly preserved across diverse environmental conditions and genetic backgrounds. Functional annotations as well as correlations with specific experimental treatments associated individual conserved modules with distinct biological processes underlying wood formation, such as cell‐wall biosynthesis, meristem development and epigenetic pathways. Module genes were also enriched for DNase I hypersensitivity footprints and binding from four transcription factors associated with wood formation.

The conserved modules are excellent candidates for modeling core developmental pathways common to wood formation in diverse environments and genotypes, and serve as testbeds for hypothesis generation and testing for future studies.
DNA methylation pattern of apoptosis‐related genes in ameloblastoma
Authors: Costa SFS , Pereira NB , Pereira KMA , Campos K , de Castro WH , Diniz MG , Gomes CC , Gomez RS
Published: March 2017

Objectives

DNA methylation is an important mechanism of gene control expression, and it has been poorly addressed in odontogenic tumours. On this basis, we aimed to assess the methylation pattern of 22 apoptosis‐related genes in solid ameloblastomas.

Materials and Methods

Ameloblastoma fresh samples (n = 10) and dental follicles (n = 8) were included in the study. The percentage fraction of methylated and unmethylated DNA promoter of 22 apoptosis‐related genes was determined using enzymatic restriction digestion and quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) array. The relative expressions of the genes that showed the most discrepant methylation profile between tumours and controls were analysed by reverse‐transcription quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR).

Results

Lower methylation percentages of TNFRSF25 (47.2%) and BCL2L11 (33.2%) were observed in ameloblastomas compared with dental follicles (79.3% and 59.5%, respectively). The RT‐qPCR analysis showed increased expression of BCL2L11 in ameloblastomas compared with dental follicles, in agreement with the methylation analysis results, while there was no difference between the expression levels of TNFRSF25 between both groups.

Conclusions

On the basis of our results, the transcription of the apoptosis‐related gene BCL2L11 is possibly regulated by promoter DNA methylation in ameloblastoma. The biological significance of this finding in ameloblastoma pathobiology remains to be clarified.
Noninvasive Determination of HV Interval Using Magnetocardiography
Authors: SENTHILNATHAN SENGOTTUVEL , SELVARAJ RAJA J. , PATEL RAJESH , SATHEESH SANTHOSH , KATHOLIL GIREESAN , JANAWADKAR MADHUKAR P. , RADHAKRISHNAN THIMMAKUDY S.
Published: March 2017

Background

The His‐ventricular (HV) interval is an important index of atrioventricular conduction, but at present can be reliably measured only during an invasive electrophysiology (EP) study. Magnetocardiography (MCG) is a noninvasive measurement of weak magnetic fields generated by the heart. We compared HV interval noninvasively assessed using MCG with the corresponding values measured directly in an EP study.

Methods

MCG was measured using a 37‐channel system inside a magnetically shielded room in patients who had previously undergone an EP study. His‐bundle potential was identified in the PR segment after signal averaging. Magnetic field maps representing the spatial distribution of ramp‐like signals in the PR segment generated at various instants of time were used to identify His‐bundle signals in cases where the deflection representing the His was ambiguous.

Results

The study included 23 patients (14 male, nine female) with a wide range of HV intervals measured during EP study (49 ± 17 ms, range 35–120 ms). In 21 (91%) subjects, discernible His‐bundle signals are observed in the PR segment of MCG traces. HV intervals measured between the two methods showed a correlation (r2 = 0.87, P < 0.0001) with a mean difference of 5.4 ± 3.2 ms.

Conclusion

With the use of new criteria to identify the His‐bundle deflection in signal‐averaged MCG signals, we report a high success rate in noninvasive HV interval measurement and a good agreement with those from EP study. The results encourage the use of MCG as a noninvasive method for measurement of the HV interval.
Productivity, persistence and traits related to drought tolerance in smooth bromegrass
Authors: Saeidnia Fatemeh , Majidi Mohammad Mahdi , Mirlohi Aghafakhr , Manafi Marziye
Published: March 2017

This study was conducted to evaluate drought tolerance and persistence in a germplasm of smooth bromegrass and association of forage productivity with different traits. Thirty‐six genotypes of smooth bromegrass were clonally propagated and evaluated under two soil moisture environments for three years (2013–2015). High genotypic variation was observed among genotypes for all the measured traits. Drought stress decreased mean values for traits related to productivity. Also, the long‐term stress for three years reduced the persistence of plants. Results indicated that indirect selection based on components of forage yield, which had high heritability and high correlation with yield, would be more effective to improve drought tolerance in this germplasm. The results of principal component analysis showed that there was a negative relationship between phenological traits with the persistence‐related traits and yield production. This suggests that selection for earliness may indirectly promote persistent genotypes. The results showed that some Hungarian genotypes are valuable gene sources for persistence. The most persistent genotypes from both groups (Iranian and foreign) were identified using the biplot method. These genotypes may be useful for the development of populations for future studies.
Your brain on bikes: P3, MMN/N2b, and baseline noise while pedaling a stationary bike
Authors: Scanlon Joanna E. M. , Sieben Alex J. , Holyk Kevin R. , Mathewson Kyle E.
Published: March 2017

Increasingly, there is a trend to measure brain activity in more ecologically realistic scenarios. Normally, the confines of the laboratory and sedentary tasks mitigate sources of electrical noise on EEG measurement. Moving EEG outside of the lab requires understanding of the impact of complex movements and activities on traditional EEG and ERP measures. Here, we recorded EEG with active electrodes while participants were either riding or sitting on a stationary bike in an electrical and sound‐attenuated chamber in the lab. Participants performed an auditory oddball task, pressing a button when they detected rare target tones in a series of standard frequent tones. We quantified both the levels of spectral, single‐trial baseline, and ERP baseline noise, as well as classic MMN/N2b and P3 ERP components measured during both biking and sitting still. We observed slight increases in posterior high frequency noise in the spectra, and increased noise in the baseline period during biking. However, morphologically and topographically similar MMN/N2b and P3 components were measured reliably while both biking and sitting. A quantification of the power to reliably measure ERPs as a function of the number of trials revealed slight increases in the number of trials needed during biking to achieve the same level of power. Taken in sum, our results confirm that classic ERPs can be measured reliably during biking activities in the lab. Future directions will employ these techniques outside the lab in ecologically valid situations.
Stable isotope analysis as an early monitoring tool for community‐scale effects of rat eradication
Authors: Nigro Katherine M. , Hathaway Stacie A. , Wegmann Alex S. , Miller‐ter Kuile Ana , Fisher Robert N. , Young Hillary S.
Published: March 2017

Invasive rats have colonized most of the islands of the world, resulting in strong negative impacts on native biodiversity and on ecosystem functions. As prolific omnivores, invasive rats can cause local extirpation of a wide range of native species, with cascading consequences that can reshape communities and ecosystems. Eradication of rats on islands is now becoming a widespread approach to restore ecosystems, and many native island species show strong numerical responses to rat eradication. However, the effect of rat eradication on other consumers can extend beyond direct numerical effects, to changes in behavior, dietary composition, and other ecological parameters. These behavioral and trophic effects may have strong cascading impacts on the ecology of restored ecosystems, but they have rarely been examined. In this study, we explore how rat eradication has affected the trophic ecology of native land crab communities. Using stable isotope analysis of rats and crabs, we demonstrate that the diet or trophic position of most crabs changed subsequent to rat eradication. Combined with the numerical recovery of two carnivorous land crab species (Geograpsus spp.), this led to a dramatic widening of the crab trophic niche following rat eradication. Given the established importance of land crabs in structuring island communities, particularly plants, this suggests an unappreciated mechanism by which rat eradication may alter island ecology. This study also demonstrates the potential for stable isotope analysis as a complementary monitoring tool to traditional techniques, with the potential to provide more nuanced assessments of the community‐ and ecosystem‐wide effects of restoration.
Can biomarkers help us hit targets in difficult‐to‐treat asthma?
Authors: Fricker Michael , Heaney Liam G. , Upham John W.
Published: March 2017

Biomarkers may be a key foundation for the precision medicine of the future. In this article, we review current knowledge regarding biomarkers in difficult‐to‐treat asthma and their ability to guide the use of both conventional asthma therapies and novel (targeted) therapies. Biomarkers (as measured by tests including prednisolone and cortisol assays and the fractional exhaled nitric oxide (NO) suppression test) show promise in the assessment and management of non‐adherence to inhaled and oral corticosteroids. Multiple markers of type 2 inflammation have been developed, including eosinophils in sputum and blood, exhaled NO, serum IgE and periostin. Although these show potential in guiding the selection of novel interventions for refractory type 2 inflammation in asthma, and in determining if the desired response is being achieved, it is becoming clear that different biomarkers reflect distinct components of the complex type 2 inflammatory pathways. Less progress has been made in identifying biomarkers for use in difficult‐to‐treat asthma that is not associated with type 2 inflammation. The future is likely to see further biomarker discovery, direct measurements of individual cytokines rather than surrogates of their activity and the increasing use of biomarkers in combination. If the promise of biomarkers is to be fulfilled, they will need to provide useful information that aids clinical decision‐making, rather than being ‘just another test’ for clinicians to order.