bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gymnastics between school desks
Authors: Brunelli Marta , Meda Juri
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the evolution and use of the school desk in unified Italy as a multifunctional and highly efficient tool, which was required not only to efficiently support in-class activities, to facilitate the classroom management and finally to maintain a correct body posture in order to preserve pupils’ health, but also to accomplish the additional task of working as real “gymnastic equipment”, i.e. suitable for performing various gymnastic exercises inside the classroom.

Design/methodology/approach

The assumption upon which this paper rests is that school desks have always been signifiers charged with multiple meanings related to the evolution of curriculum, pedagogic ideas and daily school practices, which have often been forgotten, abandoned or, for some reasons, underrepresented in the official history of education as well as in the collective memory of school. In order to rebuild this forgotten history, and retrace the possible theoretical-pedagogical basis underlying such practice, the authors have systematically reviewed the Italian manuals on gymnastics between desks from the 1870s to the 1970s, retraced sources documenting this practice in the daily school life (government rules, school programmes, school hygiene prescriptions, iconographic sources, teachers and school managers’ testimonies) and finally, compared with other foreign practices (such as “calisthenics”).

Findings

The convergence between many differentiated sources has demonstrated the longevity of this school practice, which was not only the fruit of educational theories of gymnastic teachers but was also determined by the backwardness and logistic inadequacies of many Italian schools. The paper reveals how this gymnastic practice, after establishing itself in the post-Unification Italian schools, continued almost uninterrupted until the Second World War and even until the 1970s, evidencing how gymnastic teachers, hygienists, educationalists and lawmakers continued, over almost a century, to scientifically legitimise (from the top downwards) an educational practice that was actually driven from the bottom upwards, i.e. determined by an endemic lack of adequate spaces and tools for physical education in Italian schools.

Originality/value

For the very first time, the special source of Italian manuals and booklets on gymnastics between desks has been located, analysed and systematically reviewed for the period 1870s-1970s, and then cross-checked against differentiated sources. This study actually represents the first step of a research which must be still further developed. Undoubtedly, the “new” source represented by the manuals of “gymnastics between school desks” offered a first original perspective from which to explore the use of this furniture in the school of the past, thereby enabling historians of education to shed the first light on a school practice that has been overlooked or forgotten, and still hidden within the “black box of schooling”.
The Economic Consequences of Perk Disclosure
Authors: Grinstein Yaniv , Weinbaum David , Yehuda Nir
Published: August 2017

In December 2006, the SEC issued new rules requiring enhanced disclosure by public U.S. firms of perquisites granted to their executives. The rules applied to perquisites granted in fiscal year 2006 and thereafter. Because the rules were implemented quickly, the perks disclosed for 2006 reflect the arrangements firms made under prior disclosure rules: firms could not revise perks to reflect the new rules until 2007. For firms that disclose for the first time in 2006, we predict and find that perks decrease in 2007, reflecting both the costs of increased disclosure and enhanced monitoring. This decrease in perks is offset by higher levels of non‐perk compensation, however. We also predict and find that the effect of perk disclosure by formerly non‐disclosing firms in 2006 leads to higher perks in 2007 for firms that were disclosing perks prior to the rule change.
Role of surface electrocardiogram precordial leads in localizing different anatomic sites of ectopic atrial tachycardia arising from lower right atrium in pediatric population
Authors: Allam Lamyaa Elsayed , Ahmed Rania Samir , Ghanem Mazen Tawfik
Published: August 2017

Background

The study was designed to examine P wave morphology (PWM) in precordial leads (V1–V6) during ectopic atrial tachycardia (EAT) originating from low right atrium (RA) to identify the anatomic sites of these foci in children.

Methods

Twenty‐three consecutive pediatric patients (56% females, mean age 8.5 ± 2.5) with EAT originating from the low RA underwent detailed atrial endocardial activation mapping and radiofrequency ablation. PWM during EAT was analyzed using standard 12‐lead ECG in relation to successful ablation sites in RA.

Results

Ectopic atrial tachycardia originated from coronary sinus ostium (CSo) in 12 patients, nonseptal tricuspid annulus (TA) in five, lower crista terminalis (CT) in three and lower free wall in three. In lead V1, PWM showed a positive pattern during EAT originating from CSo (8/12) [91.7% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% positive predictive value (PPV), 100% negative predictive value (NPV)]. A negative pattern was observed in EAT originating from lower free wall (1/3) and nonseptal TA (5/5) [50% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% PPV, 75% NPV], while isoelectric pattern was in EAT originating from lower CT (3/3) [100% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% PPV, 100% NPV]. In leads V3–V6, PWM showed a negative pattern in at least two consecutive leads during EAT from CSo (12/12), nonseptal TA (5/5) and lower free wall (3/3) while it was positive in EAT originating from lower CT (3/3) [100% sensitivity, 95% specificity, 75% PPV and 100% NPV].

Conclusions

P wave morphology in precordial leads can help differentiate the anatomic sites of EAT from lower RA with high PPVs and NPVs.
Supraventricular tachycardia, pregnancy, and water: A new insight in lifesaving treatment of rhythm disorders
Authors: Massari Francesco , Scicchitano Pietro , Potenza Angela , Sassara Marco , Sanasi Mariella , Liccese Mariarosa , Ciccone Marco Matteo , Caldarola Pasquale
Published: August 2017

Pregnancy may predispose to paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), in subjects with or without identifiable heart disease. Many physiological conditions such as autonomic nervous system changes, altered systemic hemodynamics, etc. can contribute to the onset of arrhythmias during pregnancy. Some cases reported the occurrence of arrhythmias in relation to systemic fluid variations. We report the case of a pregnant woman who experienced SVT due to fluid depletion, detected by bioimpedance vector analysis (BIVA), which was successfully treated by water repletion under tight BIVA monitoring. Emergency physicians can overcome dangerous drug administration by considering historical examination and using fast and reproducible techniques such as BIVA.
Autophagic dysfunction and autophagosome escape in the mdx mus musculus model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Spaulding H. R. , Kelly E. M. , Quindry J. C. , Sheffield J. B. , Hudson M. B. , Selsby J. T.
Published: August 2017

Aim

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is caused by the absence of functional dystrophin protein and results in a host of secondary effects. Emerging evidence suggests that dystrophic pathology includes decreased pro‐autophagic signalling and suppressed autophagic flux in skeletal muscle, but the relationship between autophagy and disease progression is unknown. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the extent to which basal autophagy changes with disease progression. We hypothesized that autophagy impairment would increase with advanced disease.

Methods

To test this hypothesis, 7‐week‐old and 17‐month‐old dystrophic diaphragms were compared to each other and age‐matched controls.

Results

Changes in protein markers of autophagy indicate impaired autophagic stimulation through AMPK, however, robust pathway activation in dystrophic muscle, independent of disease severity. Relative protein abundance of p62, an inverse correlate of autophagic degradation, was dramatically elevated with disease regardless of age. Likewise, relative protein abundance of Lamp2, a lysosome marker, was decreased twofold at 17 months of age in dystrophic muscle and was confirmed, along with mislocalization, in histological samples, implicating lysosomal dysregulation in this process. In dystrophic muscle, autophagosome‐sized p62‐positive foci were observed in the extracellular space. Moreover, we found that autophagosomes were released from both healthy and dystrophic diaphragms into the extracellular environment, and the occurrence of autophagosome escape was more frequent in dystrophic muscle.

Conclusion

These findings suggest autophagic dysfunction proceeds independent of disease progression and blunted degradation of autophagosomes is due in part to decreased lysosome abundance, and contributes to autophagosomal escape to the extracellular space.
Population pharmacokinetic meta‐analysis of ramucirumab in cancer patients
Authors: O'Brien Lisa , Westwood Paul , Gao Ling , Heathman Michael
Published: August 2017

Aims

Ramucirumab is a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody that specifically binds vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2) and blocks binding of VEGF‐A, VEGF‐C and VEGF‐D. The objective of the analysis was to characterize the clinical pharmacology profile of ramucirumab using a population pharmacokinetic approach.

Methods

A total of 1639 patients with 6427 serum concentrations from 11 Phase 1b, 2 and 3 clinical trials in patients with various cancer indications were included in the analysis. Ramucirumab was administered as an intravenous infusion over 1 h at 8 mg kg−1 every 2 weeks or 10 mg kg−1 every 3 weeks. A series of pharmacostatistical models were developed to describe the concentration data. The best model was used to evaluate patient factors for their effect on ramucirumab pharmacokinetics.

Results

The pharmacokinetics of ramucirumab were well characterized by a two‐compartment model. Mean population estimates of clearance, volume of distribution and half‐life for a typical 68‐kg patient were 0.0148 l h−1, 5.30 l and 13.4 days, respectively. A modest relationship was observed between body weight and ramucirumab disposition; clearance and central compartment volume increased with body weight. No other patient characteristics were shown to influence the disposition of ramucirumab in this patient population.

Conclusions

The final model adequately described the concentration–time profile of ramucirumab in patients with a range of cancer indications. The model confirmed that a weight‐normalized dosing regimen is appropriate for ramucirumab therapy. Dose adjustment was not required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment or mild hepatic impairment.
Hippocampal sclerosis, hippocampal neuron loss patterns and TDP‐43 in the aged population
Authors: Hokkanen Suvi R. K. , Hunter Sally , Polvikoski Tuomo M. , Keage Hannah A. D. , Minett Thais , Matthews Fiona E. , Brayne Carol ,   MRC CFAS and CC75C Study Group
Published: August 2017

Hippocampal neuron loss is a common neuropathological feature in old age with various underlying etiologies. Hippocampal sclerosis of aging (HS‐Aging) is neuropathologically characterized by severe CA1 neuronal loss and frequent presence of transactive response DNA‐binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP‐43) aggregations. Its etiology is unclear and currently no standardized approaches to measure HS‐Aging exist. We developed a semi‐quantitative protocol, which captures various hippocampal neuron loss patterns, and compared their occurrence in the context of HS‐Aging, TDP‐43, vascular and tau pathology in 672 brains (TDP‐43 staining n = 642/672, 96%) donated for the population‐based Cambridge City over‐75s Cohort and the Cognitive Function and Ageing Study. HS‐Aging was first evaluated independently from the protocol using the most common criteria defined in literature, and then described in detail through examination of neuron loss patterns and associated pathologies. 34 (5%) cases were identified, with a maximum of five pyramidal neurons in each of over half CA1 fields‐of‐view (x200 magnification), no vascular damage, no neuron loss in CA2‐CA4, but consistent TDP‐43 neuronal solid inclusions and neurites. We also report focal CA1 neuron loss with vascular pathology to affect predominantly CA1 bordering CA2 (Fisher's exact, P = 0.009), whereas neuron loss in the subicular end of CA1 was associated with TDP‐43 inclusions (Fisher's exact, P < 0.001) and high Braak stage (Fisher's exact, P = 0.001). Hippocampal neuron loss in CA4‐CA2 was not associated with TDP‐43. We conclude that hippocampal neuron loss patterns are associated with different etiologies within CA1, and propose that these patterns can be used to form objective criteria for HS‐Aging diagnosis. Finally, based on our results we hypothesize that neuron loss leading to HS‐Aging starts from the subicular end of CA1 when it is associated with TDP‐43 pathology, and that this neurodegenerative process is likely to be significantly more common than “end‐stage” HS‐Aging only.
Differential binding of tetrodotoxin and its derivatives to voltage‐sensitive sodium channel subtypes (Nav1.1 to Nav1.7)
Authors: Tsukamoto Tadaaki , Chiba Yukie , Wakamori Minoru , Yamada Tomoshi , Tsunogae Shunsuke , Cho Yuko , Sakakibara Ryo , Imazu Takuya , Tokoro Shouta , Satake Yoshiki , Adachi Masaatsu , Nishikawa Toshio , Yotsu‐Yamashita Mari , Konoki Keiichi
Published: August 2017

Background and Purpose

The development of subtype‐selective ligands to inhibit voltage‐sensitive sodium channels (VSSCs) has been attempted with the aim of developing therapeutic compounds. Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a toxin from pufferfish that strongly inhibits VSSCs. Many TTX analogues have been identified from marine and terrestrial sources, although their specificity for particular VSSC subtypes has not been investigated. Herein, we describe the binding of 11 TTX analogues to human VSSC subtypes Nav1.1–Nav1.7.

Experimental Approach

Each VSSC subtype was transiently expressed in HEK293T cells. The inhibitory effects of TTX analogues on each subtype were assessed using whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings.

Key Results

The inhibitory effects of TTX on Nav1.1–Nav1.7 were observed in accordance with those reported in the literature; however, the 5‐deoxy‐10,7‐lactone‐type analogues and 4,9‐anhydro‐type analogues did not cause inhibition. Chiriquitoxin showed less binding to Nav1.7 compared to the other TTX‐sensitive subtypes. Two amino acid residues in the TTX binding site of Nav1.7, Thr1425 and Ile1426 were mutated to Met and Asp, respectively, because these residues were found at the same positions in other subtypes. The two mutants, Nav1.7 T1425M and Nav1.7 I1426D, had a 16‐fold and 5‐fold increase in binding affinity for chiriquitoxin, respectively.

Conclusions and Implications

The reduced binding of chiriquitoxin to Nav1.7 was attributed to its C11–OH and/or C12–NH2, based on reported models for the TTX‐VSSC complex. Chiriquitoxin is a useful tool for probing the configuration of the TTX binding site until a crystal structure for the mammalian VSSC is solved.
Rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes co-cultured with PBMC increased peripheral CD4+CXCR5+ICOS+ T cell numbers
Authors: Tang Y , Wang B , Sun X , Li H , Ouyang X , Wei J , Dai B , Zhang Y , Li X
Published: August 2017

‘Circulating’ T follicular helper cells (Tfh), characterized by their surface phenotypes CD4+chemokine receptor 5 (CXCR5)+ inducible co-stimulatory molecule (ICOS)+, have been identified as the CD4+ T cell subset specialized in supporting the activation, expansion and differentiation of B cells. Fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) are critical in promoting inflammation and cartilage destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and the interaction between FLS and T cells is considered to facilitate FLS activation and T cell recruitment. However, it remains unknown whether RA-FLS co-cultured with activated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) has immunoregulatory effects on peripheral Tfh. In the present study, we co-cultured RA-FLS with or without anti-CD3/CD28-stimulated PBMC. The results showed that RA-FLS co-cultured with stimulated PBMC could increase the numbers of CD4+CXCR5+ICOS+ T cells of RA PBMC possibly via the production of interleukin (IL)-6, a critical cytokine involved in the differentiation of Tfh cells. We also observed increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in the co-culture system of RA-FLS and PBMC. The percentage of CD4+CXCR5+ICOS+ T cells was decreased when ROS production was inhibited by N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), a specific inhibitor which can decrease ROS production. In addition, we showed that the higher levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-1β in the co-culture system and the blocking of TNF receptor 2 (TNF-R2) and IL-1β receptor (IL-1βR) both decreased the numbers of CD4+CXCR5+ICOS+ T cells. Our study reveals a novel mechanistic insight into how the interaction of RA-FLS and PBMC participates in the RA pathogenesis, and also provides support for the biologicals application for RA.
Echocardiographic evaluation of patients presenting with acutely decompensated heart failure in the setting of dietary or medication noncompliance—Is there a role?
Authors: Goyfman Michael , Kort Smadar
Published: August 2017

Background

Reevaluating patients who are admitted with heart failure (HF) exacerbation using echocardiogram is a common and appropriate indication. However, it is unknown whether it is appropriate to reevaluate such patients when the exacerbation is attributed to patients’ noncompliance with self‐care behaviors, where the presumption is that the underlying HF biology is stable.

Methods

Echocardiograms on all patients hospitalized for HF exacerbation attributed to dietary or medication noncompliance were retrospectively assessed for the presence of significant changes from prior echocardiogram.

Results

A total of 559 charts of patients admitted with heart failure exacerbation were reviewed, of which 125 patients (22%) were thought to have dietary or medication noncompliance as the etiology. Fifty‐three patients (42%) had a follow‐up echocardiogram performed during the index admission. The likelihood of being reevaluated by an echocardiogram during admission was not affected by the clinical service that the patient was admitted to, the patient's gender, or age. Eighty percent of echocardiograms performed within a year of prior study and 78% of echocardiograms performed >1 year revealed at least one significant change. The most common changes identified were an increase in left atrium diameter, worsening of pulmonary artery systolic pressure and worsening ejection fraction. There was no correlation between the time interval of between echocardiograms and the likelihood of a significant change.

Conclusions

Repeat echocardiograms in patients admitted with HF exacerbation due to noncompliance revealed significant changes in the majority of patients studied. The changes may reflect worsening in cardiac function in addition to the presumed etiology of noncompliance.
Expression and significance of Pim‐3 kinase in adult T‐cell leukemia
Authors: Ishikawa Chie , Senba Masachika , Hashimoto Tadashi , Imaizumi Atsushi , Mori Naoki
Published: August 2017

Background

Human T‐cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV‐1) causes adult T‐cell leukemia (ATL). Viral Tax protein plays a major role in ATL development. Pim family of serine/threonine kinases is composed of Pim‐1, ‐2, and ‐3. The potential of Pim family as a target in ATL was analyzed.

Methods

RT‐PCR and Western blotting were used to determine the expression of Pim kinases, Tax, and intracellular signal molecules. Knockdown of Pim‐3 and RelA was performed using small interfering RNA. The effects on cell proliferation, viability, cell cycle, and apoptosis were analyzed by WST‐8, propidium iodide, and APO2.7 assay. NF‐κB DNA binding activity was investigated by electrophoretic mobility shift assay.

Results

Pim‐3 expression was restricted to HTLV‐1–infected T‐cell lines. Tax induced Pim‐3 expression through NF‐κB. Knockdown of Pim‐3 showed growth inhibition of HTLV‐1–infected T cells. NJC97‐NH, a novel inhibitor of the Pim‐1/3 kinases, inhibited cell viability. NJC97‐NH induced G2/M cell cycle arrest associated with downregulation of cyclin A and cyclin B1 expression, as well as apoptosis accompanied with downregulation of XIAP and Mcl‐1 expression through inhibition of NF‐κB pathway, mediated through decrease in IκBα and RelA phosphorylation.

Conclusion

Pim‐3 is a potentially suitable target for the development of novel therapeutic agents against ATL.
Elevated serum uric acid level was a notable adverse event during combination therapy with sofosbuvir and ribavirin
Authors: Sato Ken , Naganuma Atsushi , Nagashima Tamon , Hoshino Takashi , Uehara Daisuke , Arai Yousuke , Horiuchi Katsuhiko , Yuasa Kazuhisa , Takayama Hisashi , Arai Hirotaka , Hatanaka Takeshi , Ohyama Tatsuya , Tahara Hiroki , Sohara Naondo , Kobayashi Takeshi , Horiguchi Norio , Yamazaki Yuichi , Kakizaki Satoru , Kusano Motoyasu , Yamada Masanobu , Murase Takayo , Nakamura Takashi
Published: August 2017

Aim

Combination therapy with sofosbuvir and ribavirin (SOF/RBV) has been recently available for chronic hepatitis C patients with genotype 2 (CHG2) in Japan. The domestic phase III clinical trial showed a high antiviral effect with a relatively safe adverse event (AE) profile. Our aim was to report an important AE detected during treatment.

Methods

A prospective multi‐institutional study of 12‐week combination therapy with SOF/RBV for CHG2 was carried out to evaluate efficacy and safety.

Results

The eligible subjects included 142 patients. Out of 50 assessable patients, 16% of the patients were diagnosed with hyperuricemia. The proportions of subjects with grade 1, grade 3, and grade 4 hyperuricemia were 12, 2, and 2%, respectively. Serum uric acid (UA) levels at week 1 of the therapy (W1) were numerically the highest during therapy in patients with hyperuricemia, and the ratio of W1/baseline serum UA levels was significantly higher than that of post‐treatment week 4 or 8/baseline serum UA levels in assessable patients. Serum UA levels at W1 were significantly correlated with body mass index. The difference between serum UA levels at W1 and baseline serum UA levels was significantly correlated with the difference between serum creatinine levels at W1 and baseline serum creatinine levels.

Conclusions

Elevated serum UA level was a notable AE associated with SOF/RBV therapy for CHG2. However, because of the small number of subjects, the exact frequency of AEs should be re‐evaluated with larger cohorts. We need to remember that elevated serum UA level might develop during the therapy, especially at W1.
The Problem with “Caring” Human Rights
Authors: Greenswag Kari
Published: August 2017

Although Daniel Engster's “caring” human rights are, on the surface, a compelling way to bring the concept of care into the international political realm, I argue they actually serve to perpetuate some of the same problems of mainstream human‐rights discourses. The problem is twofold. First, Engster's particular care theory relies on an uncritical acceptance of our dependence relations. It can, therefore, not only overlook how local and global institutions, norms, and the marketplace shape our relations of (inter)dependence, but also serve to further naturalize our current dependence relations. Second, Engster's caring human rights are only minimally feminist, which means that they do not pay attention to the way in which women's full and equal political participation is a necessary component to challenging and overcoming the oppression, marginalization, and exploitation of women and their caring labor worldwide. Although I am sympathetic to Engster's goals and some of his proposed policy solutions, I argue that we should not abandon the critical, feminist lens of care ethics in favor of “caring” human rights that cannot overcome the care critique of mainstream human‐rights discourses.
Commitment and Partialism in the Ethics of Care
Authors: Walsh Joseph
Published: August 2017

It is plausible to think that practices of caring are partly constituted by a caregiver's commitment to a cared‐for. However, discussions of caring often contain no explicit discussion of such commitments, and do not attempt to draw any philosophical conclusions from the nature of caring relations as committed. A discussion of caring practices that emphasizes the importance of commitment therefore has the potential to generate important new insights for our understanding of caring. This essay begins that project by arguing that a commitment‐centric conception of caring entails the truth of moral partialism. Although many care‐ethicists are sympathetic to partialism, the arguments in its defense remain controversial. As I show in this article, however, partialism is necessarily true given the committed nature of caring. This is because the concept of commitment is itself a necessarily partial one: to say that we are equally committed to everyone or everything is equivalent to saying that we are not committed to anything. Thus, when viewed as a species of commitment, it is part of the concept of caring that it requires us to put the needs of those we care for before the needs of those unknown to us.
Work/life balance policy in Germany: Promoting equal partnership in families
Authors: Adema Willem , Clarke Chris , Frey Valerie , Greulich Angela , Kim Hyunsook , Rattenhuber Pia , Thévenon Olivier
Published: August 2017

Across the OECD, public policies seek to support parents in achieving their desired work/life balance. This article introduces the background to and issues at stake in promoting equal partnerships in families in Germany. Families in Germany face considerable challenges to spending more time together and achieving a more gender‐balanced reconciliation of work and family life, as paid work hours for fathers are long on full‐time jobs and many women are in part‐time jobs. Family policy can play an important role and Germany has made substantial progress in supporting families ahead of and after the birth of a child. Important in this regard are the parental leave reforms of 2007 and 2015 and the extension of childcare supports that better enable fathers and mothers to combine work and family commitments. The article assesses recent developments in family policies in Germany while also drawing from the experiences of countries with longstanding policies to support work/life balance and strengthen gender equality.
SUBJECTIVISM, UTILITY, AND AUTONOMY
Authors: Lottenbach Hans
Published: August 2017

Taking as a starting point a thesis of David Gauthier's about the status of Rational Choice Theory. I discuss the relation between a subjectivist theory of value and an account of rational agency that leaves room for autonomy. I argue that if autonomy presupposes an activity of practical reason, the maximization of subjective expected utility (as prescribed by Rational Choice Theory) cannot serve as the principle of practical reason.
WHAT SHOULD WE TREAT AS AN END IN ITSELF?
Authors: Dean Richard
Published: August 2017

One formulation of the Categorical Imperative tells us to treat humanity as an end in itself. It has become common to think that ‘humanity’ (die Menschheit) here refers to some minimal power of rationality that is necessarily possessed by any rational agent, but I argue that this common reading is misguided. Instead, ‘humanity’ refers to a good will, the will of a being who is committed to moral principles. This good will reading of ‘humanity’ is not only suggested by passages in which Kant specifically discusses humanity, but also is more consistent with the main ideas of Kant's ethics.
An update on the evidence for pathogenic mechanisms that may link periodontitis and diabetes
Authors: Polak David , Shapira Lior
Published: August 2017

Aim

To provide an update of the review by Taylor (Journal of Clinical Periodontology, 2013, 40, S113) regarding the scientific evidence of the biological association between periodontitis and diabetes.

Methods

Literature searches were performed using MeSH terms, keywords and title words and were published between 2012 and November 2016. All publications were screened for their relevance. The data from the articles were extracted and summarized in tables and a narrative review.

Results

Small‐scale molecular periodontal microbiome studies indicate a possible association between altered glucose metabolism in pre‐diabetes and diabetes and changes in the periodontal microbiome, with no evidence for casual relationships. Clinical and animal studies found elevated gingival levels of IL1‐β, TNF‐α, IL‐6, RANKL/OPG and oxygen metabolites in poorly controlled diabetes. In addition, individuals with diabetes and periodontitis exhibit high levels of circulating TNF‐α, CRP and mediators of oxidative stress, and successful periodontal treatment reduces their levels.

Conclusions

The elevated pro‐inflammatory factors in the gingiva of patients with poorly controlled diabetes suggest a biological pathway that may aggravate periodontitis. Some evidence suggests that the systemic inflammatory burden in periodontitis has the potential to affect diabetes control, but no studies addressed the impact of successful periodontal therapy on the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in systemic complications of diabetes.
Esthetic dermatology and emotional well‐being according to gender
Authors: Martínez‐González Maria Covadonga , Martínez‐González Raquel‐Amaya , Guerra‐Tapia Aurora
Published: August 2017

Introduction

There has been an increase in the demand for esthetic dermatology treatments within the general population. The purpose of this study was to analyze, within the scope of general population, the relationship between people's perception of esthetic dermatology treatments and emotional well‐being, as well as for differences in gender.

Methods

The Aesthetic Dermatology and Emotional Well‐Being (DEBIE) Scale, [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology vol. 13 (2014) 336‐345] was applied to 770 Spanish people over 18 years old. The scale is structured according to six factors and classified into two dimensions: (1) Emotional Well‐Being and (2) Perception of Aesthetic Dermatology. Cronbach alpha for the total scale was very high (0.90). Data analysis includes the following: (1) bivariate correlations with Pearson's coefficient; (2) gender differences through Student's t test, and (3) the effect size through R2 and Cohen's d.

Results

A statistically significant relationship which is directly proportional has been identified between the degree of emotional well‐being of people (self‐esteem and assertiveness, optimism, and motivation) and the knowledge and attitude toward Aesthetic Dermatology. There are statistically significant differences according to gender: Women have a lower level of emotional well‐being than men, as well as greater knowledge and more positive attitude toward Aesthetic Dermatology.

Conclusions

People who are familiar with Aesthetic Dermatology and have a better attitude toward it, are also more self‐confident, more optimistic and more motivated; with emotional strength. Regarding gender, it is expected that women may seek more consultation and esthetic dermatology treatments than men do.
Exercise might prevent cirrhosis in overweight and obese adults
Authors: Jan Cheng‐Feng , Nfor Oswald Ndi , Huang Jing‐Yang , Hsu Shu‐Yi , Ko Pei‐Chieh , Wu Min‐Chen , Ho Chien‐Chang , Liaw Yung‐Po
Published: August 2017

Background & Aims

Exercise in overweight patients with liver disease has improved liver enzymes, insulin levels and quality of life. Scientific evidence is incomplete regarding the role of exercise in the prevention of cirrhosis. We investigated the effect of exercise on the occurrence of cirrhosis in obese and overweight adults.

Methods

Exercise was assessed using the 2012 Adult Preventive Medical Service dataset while cirrhosis was identified using the National Health Insurance Research Database. All participants were aged 40 years and older. Unconditional logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios for cirrhosis.

Results

Overall, 1586 overweight and 1525 obese adults were identified with cirrhosis. Weekly exercise >150 min was significantly protective for cirrhosis in obese men and women. However, exercise <150 min/wk was significantly protective only in men compared to women. For weekly exercise >150 mins, the odds ratio for cirrhosis in obese men and women was 0.701 (95% CI: 0.584‐0.841) and 0.736 (95% CI: 0.562‐0.964) respectively. The adjusted odds ratios in overweight men and women were 0.734 (95% CI: 0.622‐0.866) and 0.503 (CI: 0.37‐0.684). For weekly exercise <150 min/wk, overweight and obese men had odds ratios of 0.879 (CI: 0.0.788‐0.98) and 0.874 (CI: 0.782‐0.977) compared to 0.918 (95% CI: 0.778‐1.083) and 0.916 (95% CI: 0.780‐1.075) in overweight and obese women respectively.

Conclusions

Moderate exercise might significantly prevent obese and overweight adults from developing cirrhosis. The benefits appear to be greater for persons who exceed the minimum recommendations of 150 min/wk.
Clonal characteristics of paired infiltrating and circulating B lymphocyte repertoire in patients with primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Tan Yan‐guo , Wang Xiao‐feng , Zhang Ming , Yan Hui‐ping , Lin Dong‐dong , Wang Yu‐qi , Zhang Hai‐ping , Yu Xin‐qiu , Liao Hui‐yu , Wang Yi‐peng , Lv Fu‐dong , Gao Zu‐hua
Published: August 2017

Background

PBC is a prototypical autoimmune liver disease characterized by portal lymphoplasmacyte infiltration. ALD is a prototypical environment‐driven disease, featured by mild lymphocyte infiltration. We hypothesize that B cells are more involved in the pathogenesis of PBC. By analysing the infiltrating B cell repertoire, we aimed to unveil greater oligoclonal expansion and active clonal exchange between liver and periphery in PBC than in ALD patients.

Methods

Using NGS of Ig H chain genes, we analysed the liver‐infiltrating and paired peripheral B lymphocyte repertoire from nine PBC and four ALD patients.

Results

In the liver of PBC and ALD patients, (i) roughly 10% of the B lymphocytes were clonally related and highly expressed, and there were also lineages that underwent extensive clonal expansion; (ii) there was different use of IGHV/IGHJ segments between PBC and ALD, suggesting distinct Ag exposure backgrounds, but this did not lead to a significant difference in their clonal expansion level. Analysis of data sets from paired samples further revealed, (iii) direct clonal exchange and evolutionally related B cell clones between the infiltrating and peripheral repertoire; (iv) the seeding of the infiltrating clones to periphery, and peripheral ones to the liver, for further extensive evolution.

Conclusions

The oligoclonally expanded nature of the infiltrating B cell repertoire implies B cell immunity is involved in the pathogenesis of both diseases. The observed clonal exchange might provide an approach to identify and monitor the infiltrating B cells through the periphery.
Cherchez l'Electron
Authors: Mäser Pascal
Published: August 2017

Who wouldn't want to have a drug that is activated only in the target cell? Prodrugs that are metabolically triggered inside the pathogen but not in the host are an attractive concept in antimicrobial chemotherapy. Of particular interest are bioreductive prodrugs such as nitro compounds or quinones that can initiate cytotoxic redox cascades and release active metabolites. The critical points for the selectivity of such molecules are, what is the source of the electrons that activate the prodrug, and which are the enzymes that catalyze the reduction? Meredith et al. conceive an elegant approach to answer these questions, making use of reverse genetics in Trypanosoma brucei. By overexpression of key reductase genes, they engineer trypanosomal indicator lines that are hypersensitive to particular bioreductive prodrugs and allow to discriminate between one‐electron and two‐electron transfer activation mechanisms. Indicator lines that are also defective in DNA repair further indicate whether the resultant metabolites interfere with the parasite's genome. This set of T. brucei indicator lines provides a tool for the deconvolution of the mechanisms of prodrug activation and drug action that will facilitate the rational development of bioreductive prodrugs for parasite chemotherapy.
Transcript‐level expression control of plant NLR genes
Authors: Lai Yan , Eulgem Thomas
Published: August 2017

Plant NLR genes encode sensitive immune receptors that can mediate the specific recognition of pathogen avirulence effectors and activate a strong defence response, termed effector‐triggered immunity. The expression of NLRs requires strict regulation, as their ability to trigger immunity is dependent on their dose, and overexpression of NLRs results in autoimmunity and massive fitness costs. An elaborate interplay of different mechanisms controlling NLR transcript levels allows plants to maximize their defence capacity, whilst limiting negative impact on their fitness. Global suppression of NLR transcripts may be a prerequisite for the fast evolution of new NLR variants and the expansion of this gene family. Here, we summarize recent progress made towards a comprehensive understanding of NLR transcript‐level expression control. Multiple mechanistic steps, including transcription as well as co‐/post‐transcriptional processing and transcript turn‐over, contribute to balanced base levels of NLR transcripts and allow for dynamic adjustments to defence situations.
Eocene Pachynolophinae (Perissodactyla, Palaeotheriidae) from China, and their palaeobiogeographical implications
Authors: Bai Bin
Published: August 2017

The Eocene perissodactyl family Palaeotheriidae has traditionally been considered to be a nearly endemic European group within Equoidea, but a few palaeotheres have been reported from Asia. Here, I reanalyse a maxilla containing M1–3 from the Lunan Basin, Yunnan Province, China. This element was initially assigned to a new tapiromorph species, Lophialetes yunnanensis, but is here placed in a new genus Lophiohippus within Pachynolophinae based mainly on the absence of mesostyles, the strongly oblique metalophs, the strong development of lophodonty, parastyles overlapping metastyles of preceding teeth and situated mesial to the paracone, and the fact that M3 is longer than wide and has a large and buccally deflected metastyle. Lophiohippus differs from European Anchilophus and Paranchilophus in that the parastyles are situated mesial or even slightly lingual, rather than mesiobuccal, to the paracones, and M3 is markedly relatively larger than M1. I further reanalyse Qianohippus magicus from the Shinao Basin of Guizhou Province, China, in which the complete dentition is known. Qianohippus is characterized by a molariform P2 and non‐molariform P3–4; a relatively high degree of lophodonty; the absence of mesostyles; an angular bending in the protoloph on P3‐M3 and the metaloph on M1–3 at the paraconule and metaconule, respectively; and weakly developed ‘metastylid’ on the lower cheek teeth. A cladistic analysis supports a close relationship between Lophiohippus yunnanensis and Paranchilophus, and suggests that Qianohippus is closely related to some derived pachynolophs. The appearance of the pachynolophins Lophiohippus and Qianohippus in China supports the existence of a biogeographical connection between Europe and Asia in the Middle‐Late Eocene, and the dispersal route was probably along the Tethyan microcontinents in the south.
EMDR as a treatment for long‐term depression: A feasibility study
Authors: Wood Emily , Ricketts Thomas , Parry Glenys
Published: August 2017

Objective

Current treatments for long‐term depression – medication and psychotherapy – are effective for some but not all clients. New approaches need to be developed to complement the ones already available. This study was designed to test the feasibility of using an effective post‐traumatic stress disorder treatment for people with long‐term depression.

Design

A single‐case experimental design with replications was undertaken as a feasibility study of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in treating long‐term depression.

Methods

Thirteen people with recurrent and/or long‐term depression were recruited from primary care mental health services and given standard protocol EMDR for a maximum of 20 sessions. Levels of depression were measured before and after treatment and at follow‐up, clients also rated their mood each day.

Results

Eight people engaged with the treatment; seven of these had clinically significant and statistically reliable improvement on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. Daily mood ratings were highly variable both during baseline and intervention.

Conclusions

EMDR is a feasible treatment for recurrent and/or long‐term depression. Research on treatment efficacy and effectiveness is now required.

Practitioner points

EMDR may be an effective treatment for depression.

EMDR could be considered if first‐line approaches (CBT and counselling) have been tried and failed.

EMDR may be particularly helpful for service users with a history of trauma.
Passive recovery of small vertebrates following livestock removal in the Australian rangelands
Authors: Haby Nerissa A. , Brandle Robert
Published: August 2017

In arid environments, grazing by exotic herbivores, including domestic livestock, can greatly influence native, small vertebrate assemblages. Whether the removal of livestock facilitates passive recovery of these assemblages depends on habitat condition and the species present. We explore changes in small mammal and reptile species richness, abundance, and composition in a degraded chenopod shrubland dominated byAcacia victoriaessp. and openAcacia aneura(mulga) woodland destocked in 1976 and 1984, respectively. Data were obtained between 1997 and 2007, from two grazed and two ungrazed sites in each community. Species richness increased at a faster rate in ungrazed openA. aneurawoodland, but did not differ significantly between ungrazed and grazed degraded chenopod shrubland. Subsequent analyses at a finer‐scale detected disparate responses in richness and abundance for microhabitat. At this scale, a greater number of species‐specific responses were also detected, including increased abundance of generalist species and decreased abundance of species requiring low cover. These results reiterate the potential for species‐specific responses to livestock that are more apparent in particular microhabitats. Furthermore, this investigation provides evidence for the gradual passive recovery of small mammal and reptile assemblages in both communities, which is facilitated by the removal of livestock in openA. aneurawoodland in fair condition, but not degraded chenopod shrubland in poor condition.
Making restoration history: reconsidering Aldo Leopold's Arboretum dedication speeches
Authors: Greenwood David A.
Published: August 2017

Scholarship surrounding Aldo Leopold's involvement in the University of Wisconsin Arboretum in Madison, Wisconsin, has often pointed to Leopold's 1934 dedication speech as a significant historical artifact. While reflecting both Arboretum history and the development of Leopold's thought and influence, the speech may also have been the first publically articulated rationale for ecological restoration in the modern era. This scholarly personal essay describes my 50‐year relationship with both Leopold and the Arboretum, and my recent research that offers a new historical interpretation of Leopold's speech. Two versions of the speech exist; tensions between them have been discussed in at least two professional journals. What I learned from examining the archival record indicates that we really don't know for sure what Leopold said that June morning of 1934. What we can be sure of, however, is that the dedication speech usually attributed to Leopold, by such able scholars as Curt Meine and Baird Callicott, was not the one Leopold actually delivered. What many historians continue to refer to as Aldo Leopold's 1934 Arboretum dedication speech was actually written for another Wisconsin audience. As I explored this mystery, I rediscovered Leopold's passion for ecological restoration and his commitment to educate a diverse, Depression‐era public about its goals and purposes. For Leopold, restoration involved not only the expression of social and ecological values, but also public critique of the destructive social forces that make restoration necessary. Embodying social critique and ecological science, Leopold continues to model for us personal and professional roles as public ecological citizens dedicated to land.
Sowing density effects and patterns of colonization in a prairie restoration
Authors: Jaksetic Nathan , Foster Bryan L. , Bever James D. , Schwarting Julie , Alexander Helen M.
Published: August 2017

A cost‐effective approach in plant restorations could be to increase sowing density for species known to be challenging to establish, while reducing sowing density for species that easily colonize on their own. Sowing need not occur evenly across the site for rapidly dispersing species. We explored these issues using a prairie restoration experiment on a high‐school campus with three treatments: plots sown only to grasses (G plots), to grasses and forbs (GF1), and to grasses and forbs with forbs sown at twice the density (GF2). In year 2, GF1 and GF2 plots had higher diversity than G plots, as expected, but GF2 treatments did not have twice the sown forb cover. However, high forb sowing density increased forb richness, probably by reducing stochastic factors in establishment. Cover of nonsown species was highest in G plots and lowest in GF2 plots, suggesting suppressive effects of native forbs on weedy species. Colonization of G plots by two sown forbs (Coreopsis tinctoria and Rudbeckia hirta) was apparent after 2.5 years, providing evidence that these species are self‐sustaining. Colonization was greater in edges than in the central areas of G plots. Through construction of establishment kernels, we infer that the mean establishment distance was shorter for R. hirta (6.7 m) compared to C. tinctoria (21.1 m). Our results lead us to advocate for restoration practices that consider not only seed sowing but also subsequent dispersal of sown species. Furthermore, we conclude that restoration research is particularly amenable for outdoor education and university‐high school collaborations.
Clustering in Small Area Estimation with Area Level Linear Mixed Models
Authors: Torkashvand Elaheh , Jafari Jozani Mohammad , Torabi Mahmoud
Published: August 2017

Finding reliable estimates of parameters of subpopulations (areas) in small area estimation is an important problem especially when there are few or no samples in some areas. Clustering small areas on the basis of the Euclidean distance between their corresponding covariates is proposed to obtain smaller mean-squared prediction error (MSPE) for the predicted values of area means by using area level linear mixed models. We first propose a statistical test to investigate the homogeneity of variance components between clusters. Then, we obtain the empirical best linear unbiased predictor of small area means by taking into account the difference between variance components in different clusters. We study the performance of our proposed test as well as the effect of the clustering on the MSPE of small area means by using simulation studies. We also obtain a second-order approximation to the MSPE of small area means and derive a second-order unbiased estimator of the MSPE. The results show that the MSPE of small area means can be improved when the variance components are different. The improvement in the MSPE is significant when the difference between variance components is considerable. Finally, the methodology proposed is applied to a real data set.