bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incrementalism and punctuated equilibrium in Hungarian budgeting (1991-2013)
Authors: Sebók Miklós , Berki Tamás
Published: December 2017

The paper applies two core theoretical frameworks of budgetary change-incrementalism and punctuated equilibrium theory-to a new database of Hungarian final accounts data for the period 1991 through 2013. Based on our analysis trends in Hungarian budgeting are in line with available comparative evidence suggesting that yearly changes of budget outlays in policy domains are best characterized by a punctuated equilibrium model. The most significant variable in predicting whether an observation would fall into the equilibrium or punctuated group was the share of the given policy domain of total outlays. However, alternative explanatory variables, such as the electoral cycle, the fiscal cycle and the business cycle had no effect on the results.
Analysis by metadynamics simulation of binding pathway of influenza virus M2 channel blockers
Authors: Sakai Yuri , Kawaguchi Atsushi , Nagata Kyosuke , Hirokawa Takatsugu
Published: December 2017

M2 protein of influenza A virus is a proton channel spanning the viral envelope. Activity of this proton channel is required for uncoating of viral particles and equilibrating the pH across the trans Golgi apparatus, which prevents conformational change in hemagglutinin. Amantadine, an anti‐influenza A virus drug, inhibits M2 proton channel activity by binding to the channel pore; however, most currently circulating influenza A viruses are amantadine‐resistant. The most prevalent resistant mutation is a substitution from Ser31 to Asn31 in M2. Further atomistic analysis of ligand‐M2 complexes is needed to provide new approaches for the design of novel M2 channel blockers. Here, the free energy profiles of the binding kinetics of M2 channel blockers were examined by well‐tempered metadynamics simulations and it was found that amantadine first binds to Asp24 of S31 M2 and forms a metastable conformation. In contrast, the free energy profiles of adamantyl bromothiophene dual inhibitor with either S31 M2 or N31 M2 are broad funnel‐shaped curves, suggesting that adamantyl bromothiophene does not form metastable complexes with M2. The trajectory of well‐tempered metadynamics simulations revealed that steric hindrance between adamantyl bromothiophene and S31 M2 interrupts formation of a metastable conformation at Asp24 and that a halogen bond between the bromine atom and N31 is responsible for pulling down the ligand to the channel pore of N31 M2 in the absence of a metastable state. Binding pathways of M2 channel blockers to M2 are here proposed on the basis of these findings; they may provide new approaches to designing further M2 channel blockers.
Avian Scavenging of Small‐Sized Pig Carcasses in Central Florida: Utilizing GIS to Analyze Site Variables Affecting Skeletal Dispersal
Authors: Schultz John J. , Mitchell Alexander T.
Published: December 2017

Scavengers can significantly alter a forensic scene and consume, modify, disarticulate, and disperse bodies on the ground surface. The research purpose was to examine vulture scavenging in central Florida, USA. Four small‐sized pig (Sus scrofa) carcasses were left on the ground surface of two microenvironments (shaded and open) at a secure site with game cameras. Dispersal data were mapped and analyzed using geographical information systems spatial analysis digital mapping tools. The primary avian scavengers recorded included black vultures (Coragyps atratus) and turkey vultures (Cathartes aura), as well as bald eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). Carcass dispersal patterns were impacted by foliage density (grass height and concentrations of bushes and trees) and proximity to the perimeter fence. While the majority of skeletal elements were dispersed within 6 m of the carcass deposition locations, dispersion occurred over a greater distance in the wooded microenvironment. Overall, vulture behaviors deleteriously destroyed and changed the context of the scene, with black vultures having the greatest impact.
Fishy Odor and TMA Content Levels in Duck Egg Yolks
Authors: Li Xingzheng , Yuan Gongjiao , Chen Xia , Guo Yuying , Yang Ning , Pi Jinsong , Zhang Hao , Zheng Jiangxia
Published: December 2017

The differences between the trimethylamine (TMA) content levels in duck and chicken egg yolks under normal dietary conditions were compared. Moreover, the association between the polymorphisms of the duck FMO3 gene and TMA content levels in duck egg yolks was analyzed. Then, to detect the mutations associated with the fish‐flavor trait, duck populations were selected for a high‐choline diet experiment, which was followed by full‐length sequencing of the FMO3 exons. The results showed that the TMA content levels in duck eggs (3.60 μg/g) were significantly higher than those in chicken eggs (2.35 μg/g) under normal dietary conditions (P < 0.01). With regard to the high‐choline diet, the average TMA content levels in duck egg yolks (9.21 μg/g; P < 0.01) increased significantly. Furthermore, 5 SNPs reported in Ensembl database were detected in duck FMO3 exons. However, no mutation loci were found to be significantly associated with the TMA content levels in duck egg yolks. Besides, duck liver FMO3 mRNA expression levels were not associated with the TMA content levels. The results indicated that excessive TMA deposition in duck eggs is one of main factors causing the fishy odor in duck eggs, and the addition of choline in the ducks’ diets was responsible for inducing an increase in the TMA content levels in duck eggs.

Practical Application

Our study can help to diminish the fishy taste in duck eggs by reducing the amount of supplemented choline. Furthermore, this study laid a solid foundation for revealing the genetic factors involved in the fishy odor in duck eggs.
Prevalence of knee osteoarthritis in a suburban, Srilankan, adult female population: a population‐based study
Authors: Prashansanie Hettihewa Akalanka , Gunawardena Nalika S. , Atukorala Inoshi , Hassan Fazliya , Lekamge Indra N. , Hunter David J.
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Prevalence of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) has not been assessed in Sri Lanka, since 2006. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of clinical KOA and radiographic KOA and to assess the severity of it, among adult females of a suburban setting in Sri Lanka.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted among a representative sample of 666 females aged 50 years or more resident in Pita Kotte Medical Officer of Health area. Four physiotherapy graduates applied American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria by performing the clinical assessment in the households. Participants with clinical knee osteoarthritis were referred for radiography to identify radiographic osteoarthritis and to assess severity. Age standardized prevalence of clinical KOA for Sri Lanka was estimated based on population statistics of 2001 Census.

Results

Study included 666 adult females with a response rate of 99.4%. The mean age was 63.3 years (±9.29 years). A total of 134 were found to satisfy ACR criteria resulting in a crude prevalence of clinical KOA of 20.1% (95% CI 17.0%–23.2%). Estimated age standardized prevalence of clinical KOA for Sri Lanka was 21.8% (95% CI 21.7–21.9). Among those with clinical KOA 58.9% showed radiographic KOA and the prevalence of moderate/severe KOA among those with clinical KOA was 29.9%.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Prevalence of clinical KOA among the adult females over 50 years was high with considerable proportion of them being moderate /severe KOA. These findings should be used to advice the health authorities regarding improving preventive and curative services for KOA.
Ultrasonographic detection of double contour sign and hyperechoic aggregates for diagnosis of gout: two sites examination is as good as six sites examination
Authors: Bhadu Danveer , Das Siddharth K. , Wakhlu Archana , Dhakad Urmila , Sharma Meha
Published: December 2017

Objective

To compare ultrasound‐detected abnormalities, namely double contour sign (DCS) and hyperechoic aggregates (HAGs), at two sites (knee and first metatarsophalangeal [1st MTP] joints) versus six sites (knee joint, 1st MTP joint, radiocarpal joint, talar joint, patellar tendon and triceps tendon) in gout patients.

Methods

Forty‐seven clinically diagnosed gout patients and 50 subjects (serum uric acid < 7 mg/dL) as controls were included. DCS was looked for at three articular cartilage sites (first metatarsal, tibiotalar and femoral condyle), whereas HAGs were looked for at one joint site (radiocarpal joint) and two tendon sites (patellar tendon and triceps tendon). Ultrasound findings of both the groups were compared.

Results

Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV) and positive likelihood ratio (LR) of two sites ultrasound findings for gout were 87.2%, 84%, 83.7%, 85.6% and 5.5 respectively. Similar sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and positive LR were observed with six sites ultrasound findings. Among controls, 16% were found to have these abnormal ultrasound findings by both two sites and six sites examinations.

Conclusion

Screening of two sites (knee and 1st MTP) has similar sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV and positive LR as compared to six sites in diagnosing gout.
Sex, size and timing: Sampling design for reliable population genetics analyses using microsatellite data
Authors: Dubois Quentin , Lebigre Christophe , Schtickzelle Nicolas , Turlure Camille
Published: December 2017

Population genetics is used in a wide variety of fields such as ecology and biodiversity conservation. How estimated genetic characteristics of natural populations can be influenced by the sampling design has been a long‐standing concern. Multiple simulation and empirical studies illustrated the influence of both sample size and polymorphism of markers. However, our review of studies on butterfly population genetics indicates no consensus on sample size for the estimation of genetic diversity or differentiation. Furthermore, other aspects of sampling design (sex ratio and timing of sampling) were not addressed and their potential impact on genetic parameter estimates rarely explored.

Using a large empirical dataset (with spatial and temporal replicates) collected on a butterfly species, Boloria aquilonaris, as well as simulated datasets reflecting (1) three scenarios of migration–genetic drift equilibrium and (2) one scenario of parameter stabilization after 100,000 generations, we quantified the impacts of three aspects of genetic sampling design (namely, sample size, sex ratio and timing of sampling) on the estimation of allele frequencies and its potential downstream impact on the estimation of genetic parameters.

With empirical data, we found that sample size and timing of sampling strongly affected the accuracy of allele frequencies and the downstream analyses, while sex ratio did not. Our results were consistent across spatial and temporal replicates. Also, with simulated data, we showed that the genetic sampling design had limited effect in systems where dispersal outweighs genetic drift, while it can have major consequences on our understanding of the genetic diversity and population differentiation in systems dominated by genetic drift (such as most study systems with conservation concerns).

We advocate for careful consideration of all aspects of the sampling design in population genetics studies, that is a sufficient number of samples, while ensuring similar sex ratio among sampling locations and collecting with timing appropriate to the question under study. This is particularly important when the study aims at species conservation.
Functional ecology and imperfect detection of species
Authors: Roth Tobias , Allan Eric , Pearman Peter B. , Amrhein Valentin
Published: December 2017

Functional traits are increasingly being used to understand the response of species to environmental change and their effects on ecosystem functioning. However, some ecologically important traits, such as plant height, influence the probability of species detection during field surveys. Imperfect detection of species could therefore bias measures of functional trait composition and diversity, leading to incorrect estimates of trait–environment relationships due to a process of “detection filtering.” The importance of detection filtering for functional ecological studies remains unknown.

We used hierarchical models that account for detection filtering to analyse data on 1,296 vascular plant species sampled in 362 1‐km2 plots, distributed along a 2,460‐m elevational gradient in Central Europe. We examined how detection filtering altered measures of functional diversity (multivariate functional richness and packing) and composition (community means of three traits). We also determined whether the strength of detection filtering varied over the gradient, to determine whether detection filtering biased trait–environment relationships.

Species detectability was correlated with all three functional traits tested in this study, meaning that short species with small seeds and high specific leaf area values were less likely to be detected. This suggests that imperfect detection has the potential to bias measures of functional composition. Generally, measures of functional composition were not strongly affected by detection filtering, but functional packing was underestimated when detection filtering was not accounted for. In addition to the traits, distributional characteristics were important; rare species and species occurring mainly at low elevations tended to have lower detection probabilities.

Overall, detection filtering did not strongly bias trait–environment relationships because the effects of the environment on functional composition and diversity were larger than the effects of detection.

Our results suggest that many measures of functional composition and diversity are robust to detection filtering, but some are likely biased. Functional ecologists should consider correcting for imperfect detection, and our approach provides a simple method to do so for a wide range of datasets.
Optimal survey designs for environmental DNA sampling
Authors: Lugg William H. , Griffiths Josh , van Rooyen Anthony R. , Weeks Andrew R. , Tingley Reid
Published: December 2017

Environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling is a promising tool for monitoring cryptic species. Numerous studies have demonstrated that eDNA sampling can achieve higher detection rates than traditional monitoring techniques, such as trapping; however, the consequences of that sensitivity for survey design requirements and resulting survey costs have not been investigated.

We demonstrate how site occupancy detection models and optimal survey design methods can be used to evaluate the cost‐efficiency of eDNA sampling vs. traditional survey methods. We apply these approaches to two datasets—one in which eDNA sampling and trapping were conducted simultaneously (paired dataset), and another in which sampling methods were independently deployed (unpaired dataset)—to assess the cost‐efficiency of eDNA sampling for detecting a freshwater mammal: the platypus Ornithorhynchus anatinus.

Conditional probabilities of platypus eDNA being captured in a single water sample (paired dataset: 0.838, unpaired: 0.879), and detected in a single water sample by qPCR (paired: 0.892, unpaired: 0.858), were higher than the conditional probability of detecting a platypus with a single trapping visit (paired: 0.470, unpaired: 0.219).

eDNA sampling was more cost‐efficient than trapping, regardless of whether the management objective was to (1) minimize the survey budget needed to achieve a particular asymptotic variance of the occupancy estimator, or (2) minimize the survey budget needed to detect a change in occupancy over time.

Site occupancy detection models coupled with optimal survey design methods provide a powerful means with which to compare the sensitivity and cost‐efficiency of eDNA sampling vs. traditional sampling methods.
Young plasma reverses age‐dependent alterations in hepatic function through the restoration of autophagy
Authors: Liu Anding , Guo Enshuang , Yang Jiankun , Yang Yan , Liu Shenpei , Jiang Xiaojing , Hu Qi , Dirsch Olaf , Dahmen Uta , Zhang Cuntai , Gewirtz David A , Fang Haoshu
Published: December 2017

Recent studies showing the therapeutic effect of young blood on aging‐associated deterioration of organs point to young blood as the solution for clinical problems related to old age. Given that defective autophagy has been implicated in aging and aging‐associated organ injuries, this study was designed to determine the effect of young blood on aging‐induced alterations in hepatic function and underlying mechanisms, with a focus on autophagy. Aged rats (22 months) were treated with pooled plasma (1 ml, intravenously) collected from young (3 months) or aged rats three times per week for 4 weeks, and 3‐methyladenine or wortmannin was used to inhibit young blood‐induced autophagy. Aging was associated with elevated levels of alanine transaminase and aspartate aminotransferase, lipofuscin accumulation, steatosis, fibrosis, and defective liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy, which were significantly attenuated by young plasma injections. Young plasma could also restore aging‐impaired autophagy activity. Inhibition of the young plasma‐restored autophagic activity abrogated the beneficial effect of young plasma against hepatic injury with aging. In vitro, young serum could protect old hepatocytes from senescence, and the antisenescence effect of young serum was abrogated by 3‐methyladenine, wortmannin, or small interfering RNA to autophagy‐related protein 7. Collectively, our data indicate that young plasma could ameliorate age‐dependent alterations in hepatic function partially via the restoration of autophagy.
Autophagy controls mesenchymal stem cell properties and senescence during bone aging
Authors: Ma Yang , Qi Meng , An Ying , Zhang Liqiang , Yang Rui , Doro Daniel H , Liu Wenjia , Jin Yan
Published: December 2017

Bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) exhibit degenerative changes, including imbalanced differentiation and reduced proliferation during aging, that contribute to age‐related bone loss. We demonstrate here that autophagy is significantly reduced in aged BMMSCs compared with young BMMSCs. The autophagy inhibitor 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA) could turn young BMMSCs into a relatively aged state by reducing their osteogenic differentiation and proliferation capacity and enhancing their adipogenic differentiation capacity. Accordingly, the autophagy activator rapamycin could restore the biological properties of aged BMMSCs by increasing osteogenic differentiation and proliferation capacity and decreasing adipogenic differentiation capacity. Possible underlying mechanisms were explored, and the analysis revealed that autophagy could affect reactive oxygen species and p53 levels, thus regulating biological properties of BMMSCs. In an in vivo study, we found that activation of autophagy restored bone loss in aged mice. In conclusion, our results suggest that autophagy plays a pivotal role in the aging of BMMSCs, and activation of autophagy could partially reverse this aging and may represent a potential therapeutic avenue to clinically treat age‐related bone loss.
Systematic review of aged care interventions for older prisoners
Authors: Stevens Bruce A , Shaw Rhonda , Bewert Peter , Salt Mavis , Alexander Rebecca , Loo Gee Brendan
Published: December 2017

Objective

The care of older prisoners is a growing problem. This review examined aged care interventions in prisons.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted following preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses guidelines. A total of 1186 abstracts were screened for inclusion. Quantitative and qualitative studies were included.

Results

Two quantitative studies and five qualitative studies examined aged care interventions (n = 7). An intervention involving physical health activities was not effective in reducing distress compared to a control, and an intervention of psychosocial, physical and spiritual health activities for veterans was not effective when compared to a comparison group. Qualitative analysis generated themes that apply to best practices: addressing older prisoners’ needs, identifying barriers for older prisoners and staff, considering the prison culture, program delivery and cultivating older prisoners and staff attitudes.

Conclusion

This review found no significant interventions in prisons. However, the qualitative findings showed evidence of best practice.
A rare ANOS1 variant in siblings with Kallmann syndrome identified by whole exome sequencing
Authors: Lopategui D. M. , Griswold A. J. , Arora H. , Clavijo R. I. , Tekin M. , Ramasamy R.
Published: December 2017

Kallmann syndrome is a rare genetic condition causing congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. It presents with delayed puberty, anosmia, and infertility. Here, we set out to identify a causative DNA variant for Kallmann syndrome in two affected brothers of Hispanic ancestry. The male siblings presented with a clinical diagnosis of Kallmann syndrome (anosmia, delayed puberty, azoospermia, and undetectable luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone levels). Genetic variations were investigated by whole exome sequencing. Potentially pathogenic variants were filtered and prioritized followed by validation by Sanger sequencing in the two brothers and their mother. A pathogenic variant was identified in the ANOS1 gene on the X chromosome: c.1267C>T; both brothers were hemizygous, and their mother was heterozygous for the variant. The variant is a single nucleotide change that introduces a stop codon in exon 9 (p.R423*), likely producing a truncated variant of the protein. This variant has only been reported twice in the literature, in the setting of finding genetic causes for other conditions. This result supports the clinical value of whole exome sequencing for identification of genetic pathogenic variants. Genetic diagnosis is the essential first step for genetic counseling, preimplantation diagnosis, and research for a potential treatment.
Parents with overweight children two and five years of age did not perceive them as weighing too much
Authors: Berggren Sara , Roswall Josefine , Alm Bernt , Bergman Stefan , Dahlgren Jovanna , Almquist‐Tangen Gerd
Published: December 2017

Aim

This study examined whether the parents of children who were overweight at two and five years of age perceived their children as being too heavy and related the findings to sociodemographic factors.

Methods

The data collection included parental questionnaires and anthropometric data from a longitudinal birth cohort of 2666 children born in the south‐west region of Sweden in 2007–2008.

Results

We found that 14.9 and 11.8% of the children were considered overweight or obese at the age of two and five, but 96.4 and 87.1% of their parents perceived their weight to be just about right at these ages. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Parents who were overweight themselves and had a low educational level were associated with a higher probability of misperception: at two years of age, the odds ratio was 2.75 (95% confidence interval 1.80–4.21), and at the age of five, it was 1.92 (1.24–2.97).

Conclusion

Most parents did not perceive that their overweight children weighed too much, but their judgement improved as the child got older. Parents who were overweight or had a low educational level were more likely to misperceive their child's weight. Health Care professionals need to be aware of this gap in perception.
Human resource management contribution to innovation in small and medium‐sized enterprises: A mixed methods approach
Authors: Curado Carla
Published: December 2017

This article addresses the contribution of human resource management systems (HRMS) and three social resources (trust, knowledge sharing and organizational commitment) to innovation in small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). The study adopts a mixed methods approach by combining quantitative and qualitative methods. Results show that causal configurations leading to innovation in SME are fewer (4) than causal configurations leading to the absence of innovation (6). However, pathways to innovation in SMEs are less demanding than trails leading to the absence of innovation; such results should encourage managers. Results seem to suggest that diminished levels of trust, as well as poor knowledge sharing among individuals, and the existence of normative commitment may prevent innovation, which should alert SME managers. Implications for theory regard the hierarchy of determinants leading to innovation: HRMS beat commitment. Empirical consequences arise: managers aiming to innovate should pay close attention to the implementation of HRMS.
Challenges for Low‐Income Children in an Era of Increasing Income Inequality
Authors: Odgers Candice L. , Adler Nancy E.
Published: December 2017

Children growing up in poverty are at heightened risk for poor health. Researchers have identified some mechanisms responsible for this association but we know less about how children are affected by growing up in communities, schools, and countries with varying levels of income inequality. In this article, we summarize what is known about the association between children's well‐being and income inequality, and outline three challenges that increasing levels of income inequality may pose to children from low‐income families. We also discuss implications for research and policy.
All that Glitters is not Gold. The Political Economy of Randomized Evaluations in Development
Authors: Bédécarrats Florent , Guérin Isabelle , Roubaud François
Published: December 2017

Randomized control trials (RCTs) have a narrow scope, restricted to basic intervention schemes. Experimental designs also display specific biases and political uses when implemented in the real world. Despite these limitations, the method has been advertised as the gold standard to evaluate development policies. This article adopts a political economy approach to explore this paradox. It argues that the success of RCTs is driven mainly by a new scientific business model based on a mix of simplicity and mathematical rigour, media and donor appeal, and academic and financial returns. This in turn meets current interests and preferences in the academic world and the donor community.
STUDENT RESPONSIVENESS TO EARNINGS DATA IN THE COLLEGE SCORECARD
Authors: Hurwitz Michael , Smith Jonathan
Published: December 2017

Using the universe of SAT score sends to colleges and the exact date on which these scores are sent, we estimate how students responded to the release of the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard in September 2015. We find that data on annual cost and graduation rate, both of which were previously available, did not impact the volume of score sends received by colleges. By contrast, we estimate that each 10% increase in reported earnings resulted in a 2.4% increase in score sends. The impact is driven almost entirely by well‐resourced high schools and students. We find little evidence that the count or composition of enrolled students changed as a result of the Scorecard information shock with the exception of a slight increase in academic preparedness, as measured by SAT scores, among enrollees at colleges with higher reported earnings. (JEL I2, I23, I26, I28, L15)
Widely distributed native and alien plant species differ in arbuscular mycorrhizal associations and related functional trait interactions
Authors: Menzel Andreas , Hempel Stefan , Davison John , Moora Mari , Pyšek Petr , Rillig Matthias C. , Zobel Martin , Kühn Ingolf
Published: December 2017

It is debated whether alien plants in new environments benefit from being mycorrhizal and whether widely distributed natives and aliens differ in their associations with mycorrhizal fungi. Here, we compared whether species differing in their origin status, i.e. natives, archaeophytes (alien species introduced before the year 1500) and neophytes (introduced after the year 1500), and arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) status (obligate, facultative, non‐mycorrhizal) differ in their area of occupancy in Germany (i.e. number of occupied grid cells, each ~130 km²). We used generalized linear models, incorporating main effects and up to three‐way interactions combining AM status, origin status and plant functional traits. The latter were chosen to describe the possible trade‐off in carbon allocation either towards the symbiosis or to other plant structures, such as storage organs (significant interactions involving traits were assumed to indicate the existence of such trade‐offs). AM status significantly explained the area of occupancy of natives and neophytes – with facultative mycorrhizal species occupying the largest area in both groups – but was less pronounced among archaeophytes. Archaeophytes may have reduced dependency on AM fungi, as they are generally agricultural weeds and the symbiosis potentially becomes obsolete for plants growing in habitats providing a steady provision of nutrients. Trait interactions between AM status and other functional traits were almost exclusively detected for neophytes. While facultative mycorrhizal neophytes benefit from trade‐offs with other traits related to high C cost in terms of area of occupancy, such trade‐offs were almost absent among natives. This indicates that natives and neophytes benefit differently from the symbiosis and suggests that native AM fungal partners might be less important for neophytic than for native plant species or that more time is required to establish similar relationships between neophytes and native fungal symbionts.
The impact of host genetic diversity on virus evolution and emergence
Authors: Rodríguez‐Nevado Cristina , Lam Tommy T‐Y , Holmes Edward C. , Pagán Israel
Published: December 2017

Accumulating evidence indicates that biodiversity has an important impact on parasite evolution and emergence. The vast majority of studies in this area have only considered the diversity of species within an environment as an overall measure of biodiversity, overlooking the role of genetic diversity within a particular host species. Although theoretical models propose that host genetic diversity in part shapes that of the infecting parasite population, and hence modulates the risk of parasite emergence, this effect has seldom been tested empirically. Using Rabies virus (RABV) as a model parasite, we provide evidence that greater host genetic diversity increases both parasite genetic diversity and the likelihood of a host being a donor in RABV cross‐species transmission events. We conclude that host genetic diversity may be an important determinant of parasite evolution and emergence.
Surgical resection of calcinosis circumscripta in the funicular part of the nuchal ligament in the cranial cervical region of a horse
Authors: Graham R. J. T. Y. , Dixon P. M. , Haizelden N. , Morrison L. R. , Reardon R. J. M.
Published: December 2017

This report describes a 10‐year‐old Welsh Section D gelding presented for signs of neck stiffness that was found to have a mineralised lesion in the funicular part of the nuchal ligament overlying the dorsal aspect of the first cervical vertebra using radiography and ultrasonography. Surgical resection of the mass, including a complete removal of the adjacent nuchal ligament, resulted in improvement in the signs of neck stiffness. Histopathological examination identified the mass as calcinosis circumscripta. These lesions do not appear to have been reported at this site nor has outcome following excision of a complete section of the nuchal ligament.
Online measurement of hemodialysis adequacy using effective ionic dialysance of sodium—a review of its principles, applications, benefits, and risks
Authors: Aslam Shakil , Saggi Subodh J. , Salifu Moro , Kossmann Robert J.
Published: December 2017

Dialysis dose is an important determinant of clinical outcomes in patients with end stage renal disease on maintenance dialysis. In clinical practice dialysis dose is monitored at least monthly by urea clearance based on Urea Kinetic Modeling. Online clearance monitoring using effective ionic dialysance (EID) of sodium (Na+) is available on some hemodialysis machines. This paper reviews the background, methodology, additional applications, and potential risks associated with EID. Effective ionic dialysance provides a reliable, real‐time, noninvasive, and inexpensive measurement of dialysis dose during an ongoing hemodialysis (HD) session to allow interventions and assess the impact of these changes on clearance. Surveillance of vascular access flow rates can be used to screen for access dysfunction and refer for interventions. There is a concern that EID measurements may cause Na+ loading because of high dialysate Na+ used during these measurements, however, mathematical models, in vitro experiments, and clinical studies in patients on maintenance HD do not show any evidence of Na+ loading during EID measurements. We cannot rule out the possibility of nonosmotic Na+ accumulation in the skin because no published literature exists on this topic as it pertains to clearance measurements based on EID of Na+.
Experience of dental care, knowledge and attitudes of older immigrants in Sweden—A qualitative study
Authors: Olerud E , Hagman‐Gustavsson M‐L , Gabre P
Published: December 2017

Objectives

Knowledge about the oral health and dental care habits of older immigrants is limited. The aim of this study was to explore dental service utilization, oral care habits, and attitudes to and knowledge about oral diseases and their prevention among older immigrants in Sweden.

Methods

A qualitative research method was used, and data were collected in individual interviews to gain a deeper understanding of the immigrants′ views. Thirteen immigrants, seven women and six men, recruited from meeting places for older immigrants, participated, all aged between 59 and 88 (median 72 years). Interviews were tape‐recorded and transcribed verbatim. Eight interviews were carried out with the help of an authorized interpreter.

Results

In the analytical process, performed using the content analysis method, meaning units were identified and condensed into codes which were labelled and grouped into subcategories and categories. The interview analysis resulted in four categories: Experiences of dental care, Attitudes, Barriers and Prevention of oral diseases. The elderly immigrants described a mix of regular and acute dental care and were often not satisfied with the outcome of the treatments. They stated that oral health was important and that they were responsible for their own teeth. Barriers to dental care were costs, language problems and lack of confidence in dental services. Daily oral hygiene routines were performed using a traditional chewing stick and/or regular toothbrush.

Conclusion

The participants stated that, despite the barriers to treatment described above, they valued good oral health and visited dental services when they needed to.
Composition of gut microbiota in obese and normal‐weight Mexican school‐age children and its association with metabolic traits
Authors: López‐Contreras B. E. , Morán‐Ramos S. , Villarruel‐Vázquez R. , Macías‐Kauffer L. , Villamil‐Ramírez H. , León‐Mimila P. , Vega‐Badillo J. , Sánchez‐Muñoz F. , Llanos‐Moreno L. E. , Canizalez‐Román A. , del Río‐Navarro B. , Ibarra‐González I. , Vela‐Amieva M. , Villarreal‐Molina T. , Ochoa‐Leyva A. , Aguilar‐Salinas C. A. , Canizales‐Quinteros S.
Published: December 2017

Background

Childhood obesity is a serious public health problem in Mexico. Adult gut microbiota composition has been linked to obesity, but few studies have addressed the role of gut microbiota in childhood obesity.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to compare gut microbiota composition in obese and normal‐weight children and to associate gut microbiota profiles with amino acid serum levels and obesity‐related metabolic traits.

Methods

Microbial taxa relative abundance was determined by 16S rRNA sequencing in 67 normal‐weight and 71 obese children aged 6–12 years. Serum amino acid levels were measured by mass spectrometry. Associations between microbiota composition, metabolic parameters and amino acid serum levels were tested.

Results

No significant differences in phyla abundances orFirmicutes/Bacteroidetesratios were observed between normal‐weight and obese children. However,Bacteroides eggerthiiabundance was significantly higher in obese children and correlated positively with body fat percentage and negatively with insoluble fibre intake. Additionally,Bacteroides plebeiusand unclassifiedChristensenellaceaeabundances were significantly higher in normal‐weight children. Abundance of both these species correlated negatively with phenylalanine serum levels, a metabolite also found to be associated with obesity in Mexican children.

Conclusions

The study identified bacterial species associated with obesity, metabolic complications and amino acid serum levels in Mexican children.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress induced LOX‐1+ CD15+ polymorphonuclear myeloid‐derived suppressor cells in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Nan Jiang , Xing Yan‐Fang , Hu Bo , Tang Jian‐Xin , Dong Hui‐Min , He Yu‐Mei , Ruan Dan‐Yun , Ye Qing‐Jian , Cai Jia‐Rong , Ma Xiao‐Kun , Chen Jie , Cai Xiu‐Rong , Lin Ze‐Xiao , Wu Xiang‐Yuan , Li Xing
Published: December 2017

A recent study indicated that Lectin‐type oxidized LDL receptor‐1 (LOX‐1) was a distinct surface marker for human polymorphisms myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (PMN‐MDSC). The present study was aimed to investigate the existence LOX‐1 PMN‐MDSC in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. One hundred and twenty‐seven HCC patients, 10 patients with mild active chronic hepatitis B, 10 liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis B, 10 liver dysplastic node with hepatitis B and 50 health control were included. LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSC were significantly elevated in HCC patients compared with healthy control and patients with benign diseases. LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSC in circulation were positively associated with those in HCC tissues. LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSCs significantly reduced proliferation and IFN‐γ production of T cells with a dosage dependent manner with LOX‐1− CD15+ PMNs reached negative results. The suppression on T cell proliferation and IFN‐γ production was reversed by ROS inhibitor and Arginase inhibitor. ROS level and activity of arginase of LOX‐1 +CD15+ PMN were higher in LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSCs than LOX‐1− CD15+ PMNs, as well as the expression of the NADPH oxidase NOX2 and arginase I. RNA sequence revealed that LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSCs displayed significantly higher expression of spliced X‐box ‐binding protein 1 (sXBP1), an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress marker. ER stress inducer induced LOX‐1 expression and suppressive function for CD15+ PMN from health donor. For HCC patients, LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSCs were positively related to overall survival. Above all, LOX‐1+ CD15+ PMN‐MDSC were elevated in HCC patients and suppressed T cell proliferation through ROS/Arg I pathway induced by ER stress. They presented positive association with the prognosis of HCC patients.
The Baby Boomer bias: The negative impact of generational labels on older workers
Authors: Cox Cody B. , Young Friederike K. , Guardia Adrian B. , Bohmann Amy K.
Published: December 2017

While generational labels (e.g., Baby Boomers) are popular in the media, few studies have explored whether using these labels leads to discrimination against older workers. Using an inbox task, we examined whether the label “Baby Boomer” led older workers to be viewed more negatively than the label “older employee” in four workplace scenarios. Data were collected from 304 management students (mean age = 30.92 years, SD = 9.21). Individuals identified as Baby Boomers were viewed more negatively across all four different scenarios and this effect was modified by social dominance orientation and power distance orientation in the hiring scenarios. Overall, our results suggest the use of generational labels such as Baby Boomers may negatively impact the workplace experiences of older workers.
Site‐specific and endothelial‐mediated dysfunction of the alveolar‐capillary barrier in response to lipopolysaccharides
Authors: Janga Harshavardhan , Cassidy Liam , Wang Fanlu , Spengler Dietmar , Oestern‐Fitschen Stefanie , Krause Martin F. , Seekamp Andreas , Tholey Andreas , Fuchs Sabine
Published: December 2017

Infectious agents such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS) challenge the functional properties of the alveolar‐capillary barrier (ACB) in the lung. In this study, we analyse the site‐specific effects of LPS on the ACB and reveal the effects on the individual cell types and the ACB as a functional unit. Monocultures of H441 epithelial cells and co‐cultures of H441 with endothelial cells cultured on Transwells® were treated with LPS from the apical or basolateral compartment. Barrier properties were analysed by the transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), by transport assays, and immunostaining and assessment of tight junctional molecules at protein level. Furthermore, pro‐inflammatory cytokines and immune‐modulatory molecules were evaluated by ELISA and semiquantitative real‐time PCR. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry‐based proteomics (LS‐MS) was used to identify proteins and effector molecules secreted by endothelial cells in response to LPS. In co‐cultures treated with LPS from the basolateral compartment, we noticed a significant reduction of TEER, increased permeability and induction of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Conversely, apical treatment did not affect the barrier. No changes were noticed in H441 monoculture upon LPS treatment. However, LPS resulted in an increased expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines such as IL‐6 in OEC and in turn induced the reduction of TEER and an increase in SP‐A expression in H441 monoculture, and H441/OEC co‐cultures after LPS treatment from basolateral compartment. LS‐MS‐based proteomics revealed factors associated with LPS‐mediated lung injury such as ICAM‐1, VCAM‐1, Angiopoietin 2, complement factors and cathepsin S, emphasizing the role of epithelial–endothelial crosstalk in the ACB in ALI/ARDS.
Effects of Temperature and Photorepair Radiation on a Marine Ciliate Exposed to UVB Radiation
Authors: Hamsher Sarah E. , Sung Cheng Yun Tina , Sanders Robert W.
Published: December 2017

The influences of intensity and repeated exposure to ultraviolet‐B radiation (UVB), photoreactivating repair radiation (PRR), and temperature on the scuticociliate Parauronema acutum were explored under laboratory conditions. Population growth was negatively affected after exposure to the equivalent of one sunny summer day of ambient UVB, especially in the absence of PRR. Repeated daily exposure to UVB severely compromised ciliate survival. UVB‐exposed treatments without PRR recovered slower and reached lower final abundances than treatments receiving PRR. Reducing the daily UVB exposure approximately 25% improved ciliate recovery after exposure. In the single exposure treatments, temperature effects were not consistent, except that growth was slowest for control and treatments at the lowest temperature (15 °C). These data suggest that dark repair and/or photoprotection are present in P. acutum, but photoenzymatic repair was the more effective mechanism in reversing UVB damage. Repeated exposure treatments without PRR had zero or declining growth at all temperatures (15, 20 and 25 °C), as did those with PRR at 15 °C. Significant temperature/dose differences were identified in the repeated exposure treatments; ciliates subjected to the higher UVB intensity with PRR survived only at 25 °C, while ciliate populations under reduced UVB increased at 20 and 25 °C.
Plasticity in activity and latency to explore differs between juvenile Atlantic cod Gadus morhua across a temperature gradient
Authors: Reynisson H. , Ólafsdóttir G. Á.
Published: December 2017

In the current study activity and latency to explore, as well as the correlation of these traits, were examined in individually marked juvenile Gadus morhua at 7, 10 and 13° C. It was concluded that individual rank order of both traits was maintained across temperature but that the level of change differed between individuals.
TSC1 enables plastid development under dark conditions, contributing to rice adaptation to transplantation shock
Authors: Shi Xiaoliang , Chen Sunlu , Peng Yu , Wang Yufeng , Chen Jiugeng , Hu Zhanghua , Wang Baohe , Li Aihong , Chao Daiyin , Li Yuhong , Teng Sheng
Published: December 2017

Since its domestication from wild rice thousands of years ago, rice has been cultivated largely through transplantation. During transplantation from the nursery to the paddy field, rice seedlings experience transplantation shock which affects their physiology and production. However, the mechanisms underlying transplantation shock and rice adaptation to this shock are largely unknown. Here, we isolated a transplant‐sensitive chloroplast‐deficient (tsc1) rice mutant that produces albino leaves after transplantation. Blocking light from reaching the juvenile leaves and leaf primordia caused chloroplast deficiencies in transplanted tsc1 seedlings. TSC1 encodes a noncanonical adenosine triphosphate‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter homologous to AtNAP14 and is of cyanobacterial origin. We demonstrate that TSC1 controls plastid development in rice under dark conditions, and functions independently of light signaling. However, light rescued the tsc1 mutant phenotype in a spectrum‐independent manner. TSC1 was upregulated following transplantation, and modulated the iron and copper levels, thereby regulating prolamellar body formation during the early P4 stage of leaf development. Therefore, TSC1 is indispensable for plastid development in the absence of light, and contributes to adaptation to transplantation shock. Our study provides insight into the regulation of plastid development and establishes a framework for improving recovery from transplantation shock in rice.
Navigation waterway for Lake Nasser/Nubia on the Nile River
Authors: El‐Manadely Mohamed Sh. , Aziz Medhat S. , Negm Dalia A.
Published: December 2017

The High Aswan Dam is one of the largest dams in the world. Completion of the dam in 1970 resulted in the formation of Lake Nasser/Nubia (LNN). LNN has a highly irregular shape and dimensions. Its total length is about 500 km (335 km in Egypt, known as Lake Nasser; 165 km in Sudan, known as Lake Nubia). It has an average width of 12 km, an average depth of about 25 m and a maximum depth of 90 m. Large quantities of sediment are deposited in the lake, which complicates accurate knowledge of its navigational routes. Moreover, the sediment deposition and lowering of water levels has resulted in the creation of shallow areas that navigation bottlenecks. Furthermore, this problem is expected to increase in the future because of climate change impacts, and the effects of upper Nile River projects. The objective of this study was to identify a sustainable channel for navigation purposes in Lake Nasser/Nubia. A numerical model (Delft‐3D) was used to simulate the navigation waterway along Lake Nasser/Nubia. Calibration and verification of the model for flow and sediment deposition were performed during the period of 2009–2012. There was a good agreement between the observed and modelled results for the whole domain. The model was used to evaluate the designed navigation waterway, based on different scenarios. The calculated volume of the needed dredging, based on time series for the years 2002–2006 (‘which represents a minimum flood’), was 5.94 million m3 (mcm); the calculated volume of the dredging using time series for the years 1992–1996 (‘which represents an average flood’) was 6.64 mcm; and the calculated volume of the dredging using time series for the years 1996–2000 (‘which represents a maximum flood’) was 8.46 mcm. The modelling approach proved to be a useful tool for monitoring the future navigation waterway in Lake Nasser/Nubia.