bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cerebrospinal fluid chitinase‐3‐like 2 and chitotriosidase are potential prognostic biomarkers in early multiple sclerosis
Authors: Møllgaard M. , Degn M. , Sellebjerg F. , Frederiksen J. L. , Modvig S.
Published: February 2016

Background and purpose

The role of chitinases and chitinase‐like proteins in multiple sclerosis (MS) is currently unknown; however, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of chitinase 3‐like 1 (CHI3L1) predict prognosis in early MS. Whether this applies to other chitinases and chitinase‐like proteins is yet to be established. Our objective was to investigate the potential of chitinase 3‐like 2 (CHI3L2) and chitotriosidase as prognostic biomarkers in optic neuritis (ON) as the first demyelinating episode and to evaluate the ability of CHI3L2 to predict long‐term MS risk and disability.

Methods

In a prospective cohort of 73 patients with ON as a first demyelinating episode and 26 age‐matched healthy controls levels of CHI3L2 and chitotriosidase in CSF were explored by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Associations with magnetic resonance imaging white matter lesions, CSF oligoclonal bands, immunoglobulin G index and leukocyte count were investigated. Long‐term MS risk and disability (Expanded Disability Status Scale, Multiple Sclerosis Functional Composite components) were examined in a retrospective cohort of 78 patients with ON as the first demyelinating episode (mean follow‐up 14 years). The predictive ability of CHI3L2 was compared with CHI3L1.

Results

Cerebrospinal fluid levels of CHI3L2 and chitotriosidase were significantly elevated in patients with ON and were associated with MS risk measures. CHI3L2 levels predicted MS development after ON (hazard ratio 1.95, P = 0.00039, Cox regression) and cognitive impairment by the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (P = 0.0357, linear regression) at follow‐up. In a multivariate analysis of MS risk, CHI3L2 performed better than CHI3L1.

Conclusions

CHI3L2 and chitotriosidase are promising biomarkers in patients with a first demyelinating episode. Our findings thus support a role for these proteins as biomarkers in early MS.
Micromechanism of cyclic plastic deformation of alloy IN 718 at 600 °C
Authors: Banerjee A. , Sahu J. K. , Paulose N. , Fernando C. D. , Ghosh R. N.
Published: February 2016

In the present investigation, an attempt was made to understand the cyclic deformation micromechanism of gas turbine alloy Inconel 718 at 600 °C (i) by conducting low cycle fatigue and creep–fatigue interaction tests and (ii) by studying the microstructure evolution in the material during fatigue tests through extensive electron microscopy. Bilinear slope was obtained in the Coffin–Manson plot for all low cycle fatigue tests, and it was confirmed through transmission electron microscopic examination that microtwinning was the predominant mode of deformation at low plastic strain values, whereas slip and shearing of γ″ precipitates were the predominant mode of deformation at higher plastic strain values. Fatigue life was adversely affected when hold time was introduced at peak tensile strain during creep–fatigue interaction tests. Formation of stepped interface at microtwin boundaries and coarsening of niobium carbide precipitates were observed to be the major microsturctural changes during creep–fatigue interaction tests.
Verifier of the maximum sustainable yield estimates of the southern Atlantic albacore,Thunnus alalunga,stock
Authors: Liao B. , Liu Q. , Zhang K. , Wang X.
Published: February 2016

Maximum sustainable yield (MSY) has generally been accepted as one of the target biological reference points. Albacore,Thunnus alalungaBonnaterre, is a temperate tuna species widely distributed in marine waters. The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) and the International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF) had reported the southern Atlantic albacore stock status with differentMSYreference points. In addition, the European Commission's Advisory Committee on Fisheries and Aquaculture (ACFA), on 15 September 2006, proposed to amend the Common Fisheries Policy according to theMSYprinciple, but there is little information on the verifier of theMSYestimates of this albacore stock. This study verifies theMSYestimates of this albacore (T. alalunga) stock to support the management (i.e. setting ofMSY) for the southern Atlantic albacore (T. alalunga) stock. TheMSYestimates of the albacore stock were evaluated and verified by different models (i.e. Bayesian surplus production model [BSPM], continuous time delay‐difference model [CD‐DM] and Fox surplus production model [SPM]). TheMSYestimates fromBSPMandCD‐DMwere lower than those from conventional estimates; the relative biomass ratio (B2011/BMSY) and relative fishing mortality ratio (F2011/FMSY) fromBSPMandCD‐DMwere higher than those fromICCAT, which showed that measures should be taken for the sustainable utilisation of this fish stock.
Food‐web structure and mercury dynamics in a large subarctic lake following multiple species introductions
Authors: Thomas Stephen M. , Kiljunen Mikko , Malinen Tommi , Eloranta Antti P. , Amundsen Per‐Arne , Lodenius Martin , Kahilainen Kimmo K.
Published: February 2016

The rate of non‐native fish introductions into freshwater ecosystems has more than doubled during the past three decades, posing a serious threat to native biodiversity. Despite potential benefits for fisheries, little is known about how introduced species interact with native communities at the food‐web level, or impact energy transfer dynamics and accumulation of contaminants in lake ecosystems.

Here, we explored the trophic structure of a large, oligotrophic subarctic lake and assessed the trophic niche use and potential ecosystem‐wide consequences of two introduced salmonid species: piscivorous lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) and zooplanktivorous vendace (Coregonus albula). We used a combination of diet, stable isotope and total mercury concentration data to test the hypotheses that the introduced fishes: (i) show partial niche overlap with the native fish community; (ii) increase total isotopic food‐web size and dietary linkages by increasing the diversity of niches present within the system, in comparison to analyses where only the native species were considered; and (iii) have differing mercury bioaccumulation rates from native species due to differences in trophic ecology and habitat preferences, being higher in pelagic than in littoral species.

Trophic interactions between the introduced and native species were extensive, with evidence of reciprocal predation, resource competition and possible competitive exclusion apparent. Despite partial niche overlap with native species, the inclusion of introduced species in our analysis increased both total isotopic niche space and the number of dietary linkages present in the food web. On the basis of these findings, we suggest that introduced vendace may have led to a shift in system‐wide reliance on pelagically derived energy, whereas generalist foraging by piscivorous lake trout may have further integrated littoral and pelagic food‐web compartments. Mercury bioaccumulation rates were highly species‐specific and varied among habitats, but were generally higher in the pelagic food‐web compartment. However, contrary to expectations, vendace had lower mercury levels than native pelagic species, potentially reducing the extent of biomagnification within the lake.

Our study demonstrates how introduced fishes may elicit complex and unpredictable responses in food‐web structure and ecosystem function, and thus complicate contaminant bioaccumulation and transfer processes within freshwater ecosystems.
HOW TO DESIGN INFRASTRUCTURE CONTRACTS IN A WARMING WORLD: A CRITICAL APPRAISAL OF PUBLIC–PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS*
Authors: Martimort David , Straub Stéphane
Published: February 2016

We analyze how long‐term uncertainty, for example, regarding future climate conditions, affects the design of concession contracts and organizational forms in a principal–agent context, with dynamic moral hazard, limited liability, and irreversibility constraints. The prospect of future, uncertain productivity shocks on the returns on the firm's effort creates an option value of delaying efforts, a course that exacerbates agency costs. Contracts and organizational forms are drafted to control this cost of delegated flexibility. The possibility for the agent to delay investment in response to uncertainty and irreversibility also elicits preference for unbundling different stages of the project through short‐term contracts. Our analysis is relevant to infrastructure sectors that are sensitive to changing weather conditions and sheds a pessimistic light on the relevance of public–private partnerships in this context.
THE POWER OF WHISPERS: A THEORY OF RUMOR, COMMUNICATION, AND REVOLUTION*
Authors: Chen Heng , Lu Yang K. , Suen Wing
Published: February 2016

We study how rumors mobilize individuals who take collective action. Rumors may or may not be informative, but they create public topics on which people can exchange their views. Individuals with diverse private information rationally evaluate the informativeness of rumors about regime strength. A rumor against the regime can coordinate a larger mass of attackers if individuals can discuss its veracity than if they cannot. Communication can be so effective that a rumor can have an even greater impact on mobilization than when the same story is fully believed by everybody. However, an extreme rumor can backfire and discourage mobilization.
FIRM‐LEVEL INVESTMENT AND EXPORT DYNAMICS*
Authors: Rho Youngwoo , Rodrigue Joel
Published: February 2016

This article characterizes the complementarity between exporting and investment in physical capital. We argue that new investment allows young exporters to grow faster and survive longer in export markets while reducing their vulnerability to productivity or demand shocks across markets. We structurally estimate our model using detailed firm‐level data. We find that the choice of cost structure has a large impact on model performance and the estimated costs of exporting or investment. Using detailed capital and output tariff rates, we quantify the impact of policy change on aggregate export and investment growth.
Slipping through the net: the paradox of nursing's electronic theses and dissertations
Authors: Macduff C. , Goodfellow L.M. , Nolfi D. , Copeland S. , Leslie G.D. , Blackwood D.
Published: February 2016

Aim

The study's main aim was to gain in‐depth understanding of how nurse scholars engage with electronic theses and dissertations. Through elicitation of opinions about challenges and opportunities, and perceptions of future development, the study also aimed to influence the design of a new international web‐based forum for learning and sharing information on this topic.

Background

Electronic theses and dissertations provide an opportunity to radically change the way in which graduate student research is presented, disseminated and used internationally. However, as revealed by a multi‐national survey in 2011, many nurse scholars in vanguard universities have little awareness of how to find and exploit this ever‐expanding global knowledge resource that is increasingly available free in full text format. Within this context more detailed understandings of nurse scholars’ thinking and actions are required.

Methods

A qualitative approach using a semi‐structured interview guide was utilized to elicit perceptions from 14 nurse scholars.

Results

Thematic analysis of the interviewees’ responses identified six major themes: initial exposure and effect; searching; accessing; handling; using; and evaluation. Insights were gained about the value of these resources and behaviours in using them as exemplars for structure, format and methodology.

Conclusion and implications for nursing and nursing policy

Despite the small study size, the findings added valuable new insights to the overview gained from the 2011 survey. These have been used to inform development of a new global initiative: the International Network for Electronic Theses and Dissertations in Nursing. Featuring an educational website (www.inetdin.net), this initiative aims to support and challenge nursing's policy makers, practitioners and especially educators to utilize this neglected but exponentially increasing wellspring of international nursing knowledge.
Effective Altruism and its Critics
Authors: Gabriel Iason
Published: February 2016

Effective altruism is a philosophy and a social movement that aims to revolutionise the way we do philanthropy. It encourages individuals to do as much good as possible, typically by contributing money to the best‐performing aid and development organisations. Surprisingly, this approach has met with considerable resistance among activists and aid providers who argue that effective altruism is insensitive to justice insofar as it overlooks the value of equality, urgency and rights. They also hold that the movement suffers from methodological bias, reaching mistaken conclusions about how best to act for that reason. Finally, concerns have been raised about the ability of effective altruism to achieve systemic change. This article weighs the force of each objection in turn, and looks at responses to the challenge they pose.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Post‐Traumatic Stress Disorder in a person with an Autism Spectrum Condition and Intellectual Disability: A Case Study
Authors: Carrigan Neil , Allez Kate
Published: February 2016

Background

One of the difficulties in assessing and treating PTSD in people with intellectual disability is that it may not present with the typical symptoms associated with the disorder. This may be why there is a dearth of literature on the treatment of PTSD using cognitive behavioural approaches for people with intellectual disability (e.g. Ehlers et al. Behav Res Ther, 43, 2005, 413–431). This paper reports the treatment for PTSD in a young man diagnosed with autism and a mild intellectual disability.

Method

Treatment involved 12 sessions of cognitive therapy for PTSD using the approach developed by Ehlers et al.

Results

There was an overall reduction in symptoms and a self‐reported elevation in mood. With careful questioning, adaptation of language and elucidation of concepts, the patient was able to fully engage in therapy.

Discussion

This case suggests that cognitive approaches to treating PTSD can be successful in people with intellectual disability and autism.
Facing the Unknown: Intolerance of Uncertainty in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Hodgson Anna R. , Freeston Mark H. , Honey Emma , Rodgers Jacqui
Published: February 2016

Background

Anxiety is a common problem for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Recent research indicates that intolerance of uncertainty (IU) may be an important aspect of anxiety for this population. IU is the belief that uncertainty is upsetting, and not knowing what is going to happen is negative. There is little known about the phenomenology of IU in children with ASD. We therefore present data from parent focus groups exploring this concept in children with ASD.

Methods

Participants were asked to differentiate IU from dislike of change and fear, and to discuss examples of IU and the strategies they use to manage it. Their experiences of IU and strategies are presented.

Results

IU was evident across novel and familiar situations and parents used a variety of strategies to manage IU. Their experiences of IU and strategies used are presented.

Conclusions

Participants were able to identify and provide examples of IU suggesting that it is a recognizable construct among children with ASD.
Ginsenoside Rg1 ameliorates diabetic cardiomyopathy by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress‐induced apoptosis in a streptozotocin‐induced diabetes rat model
Authors: Yu Haitao , Zhen Juan , Yang Yang , Gu Jinning , Wu Suisheng , Liu Quan
Published: February 2016

Ginsenoside Rg1 has been demonstrated to have cardiovascular protective effects. However, whether the cardioprotective effects of ginsenoside Rg1 are mediated by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress‐induced apoptosis remain unclear. In this study, among 80 male Wistar rats, 15 rats were randomly selected as controls; the remaining 65 rats received a diet rich in fat and sugar content for 4 weeks, followed by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 40 mg/kg) to establish a diabetes model. Seven days after STZ injection, 10 rats were randomly selected as diabetic model (DM) controls, 45 eligible diabetic rats were randomized to three treatment groups and administered ginsenoside Rg1 in a dosage of 10, 15 or 20 mg/kg/day, respectively. After 12 weeks of treatment, rats were killed and serum samples obtained to determine cardiac troponin (cTn)‐I. Myocardial tissues were harvested for morphological analysis to detect myocardial cell apoptosis, and to analyse protein expression of glucose‐regulated protein 78 (GRP78), C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP), and Caspase‐12. Treatment with ginsenoside Rg1 (10–20 mg/kg) significantly reduced serum cTnI levels compared with DM control group (all P < 0.01). Ginsenoside Rg1 (15 and 20 mg/kg) significantly reduced the percentage of apoptotic myocardial cells and improved the parameters of cardiac function. Haematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining indicated that ginsenoside Rg1 could attenuate myocardial lesions and myocardial collagen volume fraction. Additionally, ginsenoside Rg1 significantly reduced GRP78, CHOP, and cleaved Caspase‐12 protein expression in a dose‐dependent manner. These findings suggest that ginsenoside Rg1 appeared to ameliorate diabetic cardiomyopathy by inhibiting ER stress‐induced apoptosis in diabetic rats.
Simvastatin improves the homing of BMSCs via the PI3K/AKT/miR‐9 pathway
Authors: Bing Weidong , Pang Xinyan , QU Qingxi , Bai Xiao , Yang Wenwen , Bi Yanwen , Bi Xiaolu
Published: February 2016

Bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) have great therapeutic potential for many diseases. However, the homing of BMSCs to injury sites remains a difficult problem. Recent evidence indicates that simvastatin stimulates AKT phosphorylation, and p‐AKT affects the expression of chemokine (CXC motif) receptor‐4 (CXCR4). Therefore, simvastatin may improve the expression of CXCR4 in BMSCs, and microRNAs (miRs) may participate in this process. In this study, we demonstrated that simvastatin increased both the total and the surface expression of CXCR4 in BMSCs. Stromal cell‐derived factor‐1α (SDF‑1α)‐induced migration of BMSCs was also enhanced by simvastatin, and this action was inhibited by AMD 3100(a chemokine receptor antagonist for CXCR4). The PI3K/AKT pathway was activated by simvastatin in this process, and LY294002 reversed the overexpression of CXCR4 caused by simvastatin. MiR‐9 directly targeted CXCR4 in rat BMSCs, and simvastatin decreased miR‐9 expression. P‐AKT affected the expression of miR‐9; as the phosphorylation of AKT increased, miR‐9 expression decreased. In addition, LY294002 increased miR‐9 expression. Taken together, our results indicated that simvastatin improved the migration of BMSCs via the PI3K/AKT pathway. MiR‐9 also participated in this process, and the phosphorylation of AKT affected miR‐9 expression, suggesting that simvastatin might have beneficial effects in stem cell therapy.
Aberrant local striatal functional connectivity in attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: von Rhein Daniel , Oldehinkel Marianne , Beckmann Christian F. , Oosterlaan Jaap , Heslenfeld Dirk , Hartman Catharina A. , Hoekstra Pieter J. , Franke Barbara , Cools Roshan , Buitelaar Jan K. , Mennes Maarten
Published: February 2016

Background

Task‐based and resting‐state functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) studies report attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)‐related alterations in brain regions implicated in cortico‐striatal networks. We assessed whether ADHD is associated with changes in the brain's global cortico‐striatal functional architecture, or whether ADHD‐related alterations are limited to local, intrastriatal functional connections.

Methods

We included a cohort of adolescents with ADHD (N = 181) and healthy controls (N = 140) and assessed functional connectivity of nucleus accumbens, caudate nucleus, anterior putamen, and posterior putamen. To assess global cortico‐striatal functional architecture we computed whole‐brain functional connectivity by including all regions of interest in one multivariate analysis. We assessed local striatal functional connectivity using partial correlations between the time series of the striatal regions.

Results

Diagnostic status did not influence global cortico‐striatal functional architecture. However, compared to controls, participants with ADHD exhibited significantly increased local functional connectivity between anterior and posterior putamen (p = .0003; ADHD: z = .30, controls: z = .24). Results were not affected by medication use or comorbid oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder.

Conclusions

Our results do not support hypotheses that ADHD is associated with alterations in cortico‐striatal networks, but suggest changes in local striatal functional connectivity. We interpret our findings as aberrant development of local functional connectivity of the putamen, potentially leading to decreased functional segregation between anterior and posterior putamen in ADHD.
Framework for Evaluating the Impact of Advanced Practice Nursing Roles
Authors: Bryant‐Lukosius Denise , Spichiger Elisabeth , Martin Jacqueline , Stoll Hansruedi , Kellerhals Sabine Degen , Fliedner Monica , Grossmann Florian , Henry Morag , Herrmann Luzia , Koller Antje , Schwendimann René , Ulrich Anja , Weibel Lukas , Callens Betty , De Geest Sabina
Published: February 2016

Purpose

To address the gap in evidence‐based information required to support the development of advanced practice nursing (APN) roles in Switzerland, stakeholders identified the need for guidance to generate strategic evaluation data. This article describes an evaluation framework developed to inform decisions about the effective utilization of APN roles across the country.

Approach

A participatory approach was used by an international group of stakeholders. Published literature and an evidenced‐based framework for introducing APN roles were analyzed and applied to define the purpose, target audiences, and essential elements of the evaluation framework. Through subsequent meetings and review by an expert panel, the framework was developed and refined.

Findings

A framework to evaluate different types of APN roles as they evolve to meet dynamic population health, practice setting, and health system needs was created. It includes a matrix of key concepts to guide evaluations across three stages of APN role development: introduction, implementation, and long‐term sustainability. For each stage, evaluation objectives and questions examining APN role structures, processes, and outcomes from different perspectives (e.g., patients, providers, managers, policy‐makers) were identified.

Conclusions

A practical, robust framework based on well‐established evaluation concepts and current understanding of APN roles can be used to conduct systematic evaluations.

Clinical Relevance

The evaluation framework is sufficiently generic to allow application in developed countries globally, both for evaluation as well as research purposes.
Cranio‐facial remodeling in domestic dogs is associated with changes in larynx position
Authors: Plotsky Kyle , Rendall Drew , Chase Kevin , Riede Tobias
Published: February 2016

The hyo‐laryngeal complex is a multi‐segmented structure integrating the oral and pharyngeal cavities and thus a variety of critical functions related to airway control, feeding, and vocal communication. Currently, we lack a complete understanding of how the hyoid complex, and the functions it mediates, can also be affected by changes in surrounding cranio‐facial dimensions. Here, we explore these relationships in a breed of domestic dog, the Portuguese Water Dog, which is characterized by strong cranio‐facial variation. We used radiographic images of the upper body and head of 55 adult males and 51 adult females to obtain detailed measures of cranio‐facial variation and hyoid anatomy. Principal components analysis revealed multiple orthogonal dimensions of cranio‐facial variation, some of which were associated with significant differences in larynx position: the larynx occupied a more descended position in individuals with shorter, broader faces than in those with longer, narrower faces. We then tested the possibility that caudal displacement of the larynx in brachycephalic individuals might reflect a degree of tongue crowding resulting from facial shortening and reduction of oral and pharyngeal spaces. A cadaver sample was used to obtain detailed measurements of constituent bones of the hyoid skeleton and of the tongue body, and their relationships to cranio‐facial size and shape and overall body size supported the tongue‐crowding hypothesis. Considering the presence of descended larynges in numerous mammalian taxa, our findings establish an important precedent for the possibility that laryngeal descent can be initiated, and even sustained, in part in response to remodeling of the face and cranium for selective pressures unrelated to vocal production. These integrated changes could also have been involved in hominin evolution, where the different laryngeal positions in modern humans compared with nonhuman primates have been traditionally linked to the evolution of speech but which are likely to be multifactorial.
The evaluation of dorsogluteal and ventrogluteal injection sites: a cadaver study
Authors: Coskun Halise , Kilic Cenk , Senture Cicek
Published: February 2016

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study is to measure the thickness of the muscles in the dorsogluteal and the ventrogluteal injection sites and to determine which injection site is farther away from the neurovascular structures.

Background

Although the dorsogluteal region is frequently used for intramuscular injections, the ventrogluteal region is suggested as a more secure injection site due to its distance to the neurovascular structures. However, there are no measurements regarding the distances of these structures. Due to this reason, the distance between these injection sites and the neurovascular structures should be measured.

Design

This study is a descriptive study that used cadavers to measure the distance between the injection sites and the neurovascular structures.

Methods

The study was conducted on 29 cadavers fixed with 10% formalin. The needle was advanced until reaching its end point. A 1·5‐inch needle was used for the injections in both regions. The gluteal region was dissected. Parameters were measured with a digital vernier calliper. Data Analysis was performed using spss and the Wilcoxon Signed‐Rank Test was used to examine differences among measurements from the two injection regions. Data were collected between February and May 2014.

Results

Sum of the thickness of the muscles is greater in the dorsogluteal region. The ventrogluteal region is farther than the dorsogluteal region from neurovascular structures. For the ventrogluteal injection administered from the same side, total thickness of the muscle was 22·22 ± 5 mm, distance to the superior gluteal artery was 13·87 ± 16 mm and distance to the superior gluteal nerve was 11·82 ± 14 mm. For the dorsogluteal injection, total thickness of the muscle was 28·35 ± 7 mm, distance to the superior gluteal artery was 6·83 ± 9 mm, and distance to the superior gluteal nerve was 5·67 ± 9 mm.

Conclusion

Intramuscular injections must be based on an individual clinical assessment of each patient.

Relevance to clinical practice

The ventrogluteal region is preferred as the first‐choice injection site. A needle of recommended length should be used to reach the target muscle.
APPROACHES AND METHODS FOR THE ECONOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF MARKET POWER: A SURVEY AND EMPIRICAL COMPARISON
Authors: Perekhozhuk Oleksandr , Glauben Thomas , Grings Michael , Teuber Ramona
Published: February 2016

This study discusses two widely used approaches in the New Empirical Industrial Organization (NEIO) literature and examines the strengths and weaknesses of the Production‐Theoretic Approach (PTA) and the General Identification Method (GIM) for the econometric analysis of market power in agricultural and food markets. We provide a framework that may help researchers to evaluate and improve structural models of market power. Starting with the specification of the approaches in question, we compare published empirical studies of market power with respect to the choice of the applied approach, functional forms, estimation methods and derived estimates of the degree of market power. Thereafter, we use our framework to evaluate several structural models based on PTA and GIM to measure oligopsony power in the Ukrainian dairy industry. The PTA‐based results suggest that the estimated parameters of oligopsony power are significantly different from zero, while GIM‐based results do not indicate any evidence of oligopsony market power in the Ukrainian dairy industry. Moreover, estimations results vary substantially due to the employed estimation procedure.
Case of ovarian hyperstimulation and oocyte pick‐up during very early period of unnoticed pregnancy followed by ongoing normal pregnancy
Authors: Takenaka Hiroshi , Nakao Kazuki , Horikawa Michiharu , Negishi Hiroaki
Published: February 2016

We report a case of unnoticed pregnancy that was maintained during low estrogen and progesterone circumstances, that showed menses‐like bleeding, and was then discovered after ovarian hyperstimulation during the next period. The patient was 39 years old and primigravid. She underwent intrauterine insemination, followed by luteal support with human chorionic gonadotrophin and progestin; however, she experienced menstruation‐like bleeding 15 days later. As low estradiol and progesterone levels were confirmed on the 2nd day of bleeding, ovarian hyperstimulation of short protocol for in vitro fertilization was commenced. Although 13 mature follicles were observed, only six oocytes were retrieved and one developed into a blastocyst. Four days after oocyte pick‐up, a gestational sac was seen in utero. The fetus is currently growing uneventfully. This case suggests that pregnancy can be maintained during ovarian hyperstimulation, even if menstruation‐like bleeding is shown in low‐progesterone circumstances.
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: 2015 in Review
Authors: Grines Cindy L. , Harjai Kishore J. , Schreiber Theodore L.
Published: February 2016

In order to keep the interventional community up‐to‐date with the overwhelming amount of new data, we have selected where we believe to be the most important publications in percutaneous coronary intervention from January 1, 2015 to mid‐November 2015. We hope that this will serve as an important overview of 2015, and ongoing reference for future years. (J Interven Cardiol 2016;29:11–26)
Goal orientation and employee resistance at work: Implications for manager emotional exhaustion with the employee
Authors: Brett Joan F. , Uhl‐Bien Mary , Huang Lei , Carsten Melissa
Published: February 2016

This study advances our understanding of goal orientation (GO) theory by relating GO to manager outcomes (i.e., manager emotional exhaustion with the employee) through interpersonal behaviour patterns (i.e., employee resistance). Specifically, we examine the mediating effect of constructive and dysfunctional resistance (DR) on the relationships between GO and manager emotional exhaustion with the employee. The findings from 565 manager–employee dyads in a Chinese company indicate that learning GO (LGO) and performance‐prove GO (PPGO) are positively related to constructive resistance (CR), and performance‐avoid GO (PAGO) is negatively related to CR and positively related to DR. CR and DR significantly mediate the relationships between LGO and PAGO and manager emotional exhaustion with the employee. The findings are discussed in terms of the importance of GO theory for understanding interpersonal behaviours and manager outcomes.

Practitioner points

First, organizations should educate and sensitize managers to the motivational orientations their employees bring to the workplace so that managers can better shape work experiences and challenges in ways that allow employees to attain their goal orientation (GO)‐related goals (e.g., avoid embarrassment, insure positive evaluations) without jeopardizing important interactions with others.

Second, before managers coach employees with a performance‐avoid GO on how to provide constructive feedback and the benefits of doing so, they may set the stage by discussing how avoidance behaviours may lead to future embarrassment or negative evaluations rather than to prevent these outcomes. Managers can foster work climates that value learning and development and reward employees for offering constructive resistance rather than avoidance behaviours.

Third, the findings linking GO with manager emotional exhaustion with the employee clearly indicate that the personal consequences for a manager make it worth their time and effort to coach employees on more adaptive and constructive behaviours.
Legislative Knowledge Networks, Status Quo Complexity, and the Approval of Law Initiatives
Authors: Bonvecchi Alejandro , Calvo Ernesto , Stein Ernesto
Published: February 2016

In this article, we explore the role of legislative knowledge networks (LKN) in the enactment of tax policy in Argentina. Findings show that legislative innovation follows a hierarchical (power law) structure with a few distinct issue areas dominated by key enacted bills. Taxation in Argentina is well described by three main issue areas: the VAT laws, the income tax, and the revenue‐sharing legislation. We provide evidence that complexity in the status quo, as described by a larger number of important precedent laws, reduces the likelihood of final approval. Our research departs from existing models of delegation by considering complexity in the status quo rather than complexity in the proposal. We argue that more complex status quo should be accounted for when trying to assess whether legislators draft more or less detailed law initiatives.
Do Campaign Donors Influence Polarization? Evidence from Public Financing in the American States
Authors: Harden Jeffrey J. , Kirkland Justin H.
Published: February 2016

Does the source of campaign funds influence legislative polarization? We develop competing theoretical expectations regarding the effects of publicly financed elections on legislative voting behavior. To test these expectations, we leverage a natural experiment in the New Jersey Assembly in which public financing was made available to a subset of members. We find that public financing exerts substantively negligible effects on roll‐call voting. We then find a similar result in an examination of state legislatures. We conclude that, counter to the logic of the US Supreme Court, pundits, and reformers, the source of campaign funds exerts minimal influence on polarization.
Approaches to Studying Policy Representation
Authors: Broockman David E.
Published: February 2016

Some studies of policy representation test hypotheses about the relationship between citizens' views and elites' positions on multiple issues by proceeding one issue at a time. Others summarize citizens' and elites' preferences with “ideology scores” and test hypotheses with these. I show that approach is flawed. It misinterprets citizens' ideology scores as summaries of policy preferences, but these scores actually measure ideological consistency across areas: how often citizens' ideal policies are liberal or conservative. Examples show how attending to this distinction overturns conventional wisdom: legislators appear similarly moderate as citizens, not more extreme; however, politically engaged citizens appear especially moderate.
Cross‐resistance to fluconazole induced by exposure to the agricultural azole tetraconazole: an environmental resistance school?
Authors: Rocha Marcos Fábio Gadelha , Alencar L. P. , Paiva M. A. N. , Melo Luciana Magalhães , Bandeira Silviane Praciano , Ponte Y. B. , Sales Jamille Alencar , Guedes G. M. M. , Castelo‐Branco D. S. C. M. , Bandeira T. J .P. G. , Cordeiro R. A. , Pereira‐Neto W. A. , Brandine G. S. , Moreira José Luciano Bezerra , Sidrim José Júlio Costa , Brilhante Raimunda Sâmia Nogueira
Published: February 2016

This study aimed to investigate the influence of tetraconazole and malathion, both used in agricultural activities, on resistance to fluconazole, itraconazole and voriconazole in Candida parapsilosis ATCC 22019. The susceptibility to tetraconazole, malathion, fluconazole, itraconazole and voriconazole, through broth microdilution. Then, 12 independent replicates, were separated and exposed to four treatment groups, each one containing three replicates: G1: tetraconazole; G2: malathion; G3: fluconazole (positive control); G4: negative control. Replicates from G1, G2 and G3, were exposed to weekly increasing concentrations of tetraconazole, malathion and fluconazole, respectively, ranging from MIC/2 to 32 × MIC, throughout 7 weeks. The exposure to tetraconazole, but not malathion, decreased susceptibility to clinical azoles, especially fluconazole. The tetraconazole‐induced fluconazole resistance is partially mediated by the increased activity of ATP‐dependent efflux pumps, considering the increase in antifungal susceptibility after the addition of the efflux pump inhibitor, promethazine, and the increase in rhodamine 6G efflux and CDR gene expression in the G1 replicates. Moreover, MDR expression was only detected in G1 and G3 replicates, suggesting that MDR pumps are also involved in tetraconazole‐induced fluconazole resistance. It is noteworthy that tetraconazole and fluconazole‐treated replicates behaved similarly, therefore, resistance to azoles of clinical use may be a consequence of using azoles in farming activities.
Who supports secession? The determinants of secessionist attitudes among Turkey's Kurds
Authors: Sarigil Zeki , Karakoc Ekrem
Published: February 2016

Who supports secession in a multiethnic country? What factors lead to secessionist or separatist attitudes? Despite the substantial interest in secessionist movements, the micro‐level factors and dynamics behind mass support for secession have been understudied. Using original and comprehensive data derived from two public opinion surveys, conducted in 2011 and 2013 with nationwide, representative samples, this study investigates the determinants of separatist attitudes among Turkey's Kurds. The empirical results show that perceptions of discrimination, ideological factors (i.e. a left‐right division and partisanship), region and religious sect do affect support for secession. Our findings provide strong support for the grievance theory and, further, show that ideology is an important factor. However, the results call into question arguments drawing attention to the role of modernisation (i.e. socio‐economic status) and of religiosity. The study also discusses some practical implications of the empirical findings.
Electrical pharyngeal stimulation increases substance P level in saliva
Authors: Suntrup‐Krueger S. , Bittner S. , Recker S. , Meuth S. G. , Warnecke T. , Suttrup I. , Marian T. , Dziewas R.
Published: February 2016

Background

Substance P (SP) is a neuropeptide known to enhance the swallow response. It likely acts as a neurotransmitter in the pharyngeal mucosa in response to local stimuli. It has been proposed that dysphagia after stroke may be related to reduced levels of SP, which therefore constitutes a therapeutic target. In the present pilot study, we evaluated whether electrical pharyngeal stimulation (EPS), a neuromodulation device to enhance cortical reorganization for the restoration of swallowing function after brain injury, is able to increase SP in saliva or serum.

Methods

In a randomized crossover study design, 20 healthy volunteers were treated with 10 min of real (0.2‐ms pulses, 5 Hz, 280 V, stimulation intensity (mA) individually adjusted to tolerance level) or sham EPS on two separate sessions. Stimulation was delivered via a pair of bipolar ring electrodes mounted on an intraluminal catheter positioned in the pharynx. Blood and saliva samples were taken prior to, during, and up to 1 h after EPS and analyzed for their SP concentration by ELISA.

Key Results

Following real EPS but not sham stimulation, SP levels in saliva increased immediately and significantly about 28% (p < 0.01) compared to baseline. Serum levels remained unchanged.

Conclusions & Inferences

Electrical pharyngeal stimulation is able to induce pharyngeal SP release in healthy subjects.
Colonic response to laxative ingestion as assessed by MRI differs in constipated irritable bowel syndrome compared to functional constipation
Authors: Lam C. , Chaddock G. , Marciani L. , Costigan C. , Paul J. , Cox E. , Hoad C. , Menys A. , Pritchard S. , Garsed K. , Taylor S. , Atkinson D. , Gowland P. , Spiller R.
Published: February 2016

Background

Functional constipation (FC) and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS‐C) share many symptoms but underlying mechanisms may be different. We have developed a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique to measure intestinal volumes, transit, and motility in response to a laxative, Moviprep®. We aim to use these biomarkers to study the pathophysiology in IBS‐C and FC.

Methods

Twenty‐four FC and 24 IBS‐C were studied. Transit was assessed using the weighted average position score (WAPS) of five MRI marker pills, taken 24 h before MRI scanning. Following baseline scan, participants ingested 1 L of Moviprep® followed by hourly scans. Magnetic resonance imaging parameters and bowel symptoms were scored from 0 to 4 h.

Key Results

Weighted average position score for FC was 3.6 (2.5–4.2), significantly greater than IBS‐C at 2.0 (1.5–3.2), p = 0.01, indicating slower transit for FC. Functional constipation showed greater fasting small bowel water content, 83 (63–142) mL vs 39 (15–70) mL in IBS‐C, p < 0.01 and greater ascending colon volume (AC), 314 (101) mL vs 226 (71) mL in IBS‐C, p < 0.01. FC motility index was lower at 0.055 (0.044) compared to IBS‐C, 0.107 (0.070), p < 0.01. Time to first bowel movement following ingestion of Moviprep® was greater for FC, being 295 (116–526) min, compared to IBS‐C at 84 (49–111) min, p < 0.01, and correlated with AC volume 2 h after Moviprep®, r = 0.44, p < 0.01. Using a cut‐off >230 min distinguishes FC from IBS‐C with low sensitivity of 55% but high specificity of 95%.

Conclusion & Inferences

Our objective MRI biomarkers allow a distinction between FC and IBS‐C.
Dissolved atmospheric gas in xylem sap measured with membrane inlet mass spectrometry
Authors: Schenk H. Jochen , Espino Susana , Visser Ate , Esser Bradley K.
Published: February 2016

A new method is described for measuring dissolved gas concentrations in small volumes of xylem sap using membrane inlet mass spectrometry. The technique can be used to determine concentrations of atmospheric gases, such as argon, as reported here, or for any dissolved gases and their isotopes for a variety of applications, such as rapid detection of trace gases from groundwater only hours after they were taken up by trees and rooting depth estimation. Atmospheric gas content in xylem sap directly affects the conditions and mechanisms that allow for gas removal from xylem embolisms, because gas can dissolve into saturated or supersaturated sap only under gas pressure that is above atmospheric pressure. The method was tested for red trumpet vine, Distictis buccinatoria (Bignoniaceae), by measuring atmospheric gas concentrations in sap collected at times of minimum and maximum daily temperature and during temperature increase and decline. Mean argon concentration in xylem sap did not differ significantly from saturation levels for the temperature and pressure conditions at any time of collection, but more than 40% of all samples were supersaturated, especially during the warm parts of day. There was no significant diurnal pattern, due to high variability between samples.
A Pediatric Case of Sclerodermatous Graft‐Versus‐Host Disease Responsive to Ultraviolet A1 Phototherapy
Authors: Lazzeri Linda , Tripo Lara , Pescitelli Leonardo , Ricceri Federica , Prignano Francesca
Published: February 2016

Graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) is one of the major complications after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and is responsible for post‐therapeutic morbidity, mortality, and poor quality of life of recipients. Sclerodermatous graft‐versus‐host disease (sGVHD) is a rare variant of chronic GVHD characterized by deposition of collagen in the skin and other soft tissues and resulting in loss of range of motion and functional capabilities. Treatment of sGVHD is challenging and largely limited by systemic side effects. Ultraviolet A1 phototherapy has been reported to be effective in connective tissue disorders, including sGVHD. We report a case of sGVHD in a 15‐year‐old girl that was resistant to traditional therapy but showed improvement in cutaneous symptoms with ultraviolet A1 phototherapy three times a week for 6 weeks (10 J/cm2 single dose, 180 J/cm2 cumulative dose).
Living donor liver transplantation in maple syrup urine disease – Case series and world's youngest domino liver donor and recipient
Authors: Mohan N. , Karkra S. , Rastogi A. , Vohra V. , Soin A. S.
Published: February 2016

MSUD occurs due to deficiency of enzyme BCKAD required for metabolism of leucine, isoleucine, and valine leading to the accumulation of these and their ketoacids causing acute metabolic decompensation manifesting as encephalopathy or sudden death. The patient requires special protein‐restricted diet to survive. As this enzyme is expressed in liver, liver transplantation has been successfully performed as a cure. We report two patients of MSUD who underwent LDLT while their livers were used as a domino graft for other biliary cirrhotic patients. A 22‐month‐old male child diagnosed as a case of classic MSUD underwent LDLT from an altruistic aunt as donor following which his serum leucine levels normalized on an unrestricted protein diet. His liver was used as a domino graft. A 38‐month‐old female child with diagnosed MSUD underwent LDLT from a swap donor, and her liver was used as a domino graft. Her DQ improved post‐transplant. LDLT from non‐heterozygous donors is a cure for classical MSUD. Their livers can be used as domino grafts for non‐MSUD cases.
Short‐term chemical pretreatment cannot replace curettage in photodynamic therapy
Authors: Nissen Christoffer V. , Wiegell Stine Regin , Philipsen Peter Alshede , Wulf Hans Christian
Published: February 2016

Background

Guidelines for photodynamic therapy (PDT) recommend pretreatment with curettage/debulking to enhance intracellular formation of protoporphyrin IX (PpIX). However, studies suggest that new chemical pretreatment procedures may replace curettage/debulking.

Purpose

To investigate how pretreatment with curettage and two combination ointments containing calcipotriol/betamethasone and salicylic acid/betamethasone affect PpIX fluorescence after the application of methyl aminolevulinate MAL and 5‐aminolevulinic acid (BF‐200 ALA).

Methods

Four fields on the forearms of 30 healthy volunteers were pretreated with curettage or short‐term application of calcipotriol/betamethasone or salicylic acid/betamethasone for 20 min. Two fields were not pretreated, thus serving as reference. After pretreatment, MAL or BF‐200 ALA was applied for 24 h, and PpIX fluorescence was measured hourly from 1 to 5 h and after 18, 21 and 24 h.

Results

Curettage significantly enhanced PpIX fluorescence for MAL from 1 to 21 h (P < 0.0041). For BF‐200 ALA, curettage enhanced fluorescence from 1 to 5 h (P < 0.000064), while fluorescence was lower from 18 to 24 h. Pretreatment with salicylic acid/betamethasone and calcipotriol/betamethasone before BF‐200 ALA application did not increase PpIX fluorescence from 1 to 5 h compared to no pretreatment, and both were significantly inferior to curettage (P < 0.0017 and 0.0024, respectively).

Conclusion

Curettage significantly enhances PpIX fluorescence from 1 to 5 h and is superior to short‐term chemical pretreatment. Our results support curettage as standard pretreatment in PDT.