bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responses of bats to landscape transformation in an Andean agricultural landscape
Authors: Vélez-Orozco Mariana , Romero Laura M. , Castaño John H. , Carranza-Quiceno Jaime A. , Pérez-Torres Jairo , Torres Diego A.
Published: February 2019

The current debate on the future of biodiversity gives rise to the need to integrate agricultural landscapes into conservation strategies. Bats are an important component of vertebrate diversity in many terrestrial landscapes where they provide invaluable and important ecosystem services to human societies such as insect pest control, pollination and seed dispersal. Here we study bat diversity and abundance in three landscapes representing a transformational gradient (continuous forests, forest fragments and crops) in an Andean agricultural scenario known as Colombia’s “Coffee Cultural Landscape”. We captured 1146 bats from 32 species and 4 families. The bat diversity and abundance in this landscape were high, especially for frugivorous bats, but there were no differences among the three transformational landscapes. However, some species were captured differentially between landscapes, suggesting that these landscapes have characteristics that influence the relative abundance of bats. Additionally, body weight and sex affect the abundance of some species in forest fragments and crops.
Reward prediction error modulates saccade vigor
Authors: Sedaghat-Nejad Ehsan , Herzfeld David J. , Shadmehr Reza
Published: February 2019

Movements toward rewarding stimuli exhibit greater vigor, i.e., increased velocity and reduced reaction-times. This invigoration may be due to release of dopamine before movement onset. Dopamine release is strongly modulated by reward prediction error (RPE). Here, we generated an RPE event in the milliseconds before movement onset and tested whether there was a causal relationship between RPE and vigor. Human subjects made saccades toward an image. During the execution of their primary saccade, we probabilistically changed the position and content of the image. This led to a secondary saccade following completion of the primary saccade. We focused on properties of this secondary saccade. On some trials, the content of the secondary image was more valuable than the first image, resulting in a +RPE event that preceded the secondary saccade. On other trials, this content was less valuable, resulting in a -RPE event. We found that reaction-time and velocity of the secondary saccade were affected in an orderly fashion by the magnitude and direction of the preceding RPE event: the most vigorous saccades followed the largest +RPE, whereas the least vigorous saccades followed the largest -RPE. Presence of the secondary saccade indicated that the primary saccade had experienced a movement error, inducing trial-to-trial adaptation: the subsequent primary saccade was changed in the direction of the movement error in the previous trial. However, motor learning from error was not affected by the RPE event. Therefore, reward prediction error, and not reward per se, modulated vigor of saccades.

Author summary

Does dopamine release before onset of a movement modulate vigor of the ensuing movement? To test this hypothesis, we relied on the fact that RPE is a strong modulator of dopamine. Our innovation was a task in which an RPE event occurred precisely before onset of a movement. We probabilistically produced a combination of large or small, negative or positive RPE events before onset of a saccade, and observed that the vigor of the saccade that followed carried a robust signature of the preceding RPE event: high vigor saccades followed +RPE events, while low vigor saccades followed -RPE events. This suggests that control of vigor is partly through release of dopamine in the moments before onset of the movement.
Evaluation of the psychometric properties of the HIV Disability Questionnaire among adults living with HIV in the United Kingdom
Authors: Brown Darren , Simmons Bryony , Boffito Marta , Aubry Rachel , Nwokolo Nneka , Harding Richard , O’Brien Kelly
Published: February 2019

Objective

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the HIV Disability Questionnaire (HDQ) among adults living with HIV in London, United Kingdom (UK).

Methods

This is a cross-sectional measurement study. We recruited and administered the self-reported HDQ, seven criterion measures, and a demographic questionnaire with adults living with HIV accessing HIV care. We determined median and interquartile ranges (IQR) for disability presence, severity and episodic scores (range 0-100). We calculated Cronbach’s alpha (α) Kuder-Richardson-20 (KR-20) statistics for disability and episodic scores respectively (internal consistency reliability), smallest detectable change (SDC) for each HDQ severity item and domain (precision), and tested 36 a priori hypotheses assessing correlations between HDQ and criterion scores (construct validity).

Results

Of N=243 participants, all were male, median age 40 years, 94% currently taking antiretroviral therapy, and 22% living with ≥2 concurrent health conditions. Median HDQ domain scores ranged from 0 (IQR: 0,7) (difficulties with day-to-day activities domain) to 27 (IQR: 14, 41) (uncertainty domain). Cronbach’s alpha for the HDQ severity scale ranged from 0.85 (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.80-0.90) in the cognitive domain to 0.93 (95%CI: 0.91-0.94) in the mental-emotional domain. The KR-20 statistic for the HDQ episodic scale ranged from 0.74 (95%CI: 0.66-0.83) in the cognitive domain to 0.91 (95%CI: 0.89-0.94) in the uncertainty domain. SDC ranged from 7.3-15.0 points on the HDQ severity scale for difficulties with day-to-day activities and cognitive symptoms domains, respectively. The majority of the construct validity hypotheses (n=30/36, 83%) were confirmed.

Conclusions

The HDQ possesses internal consistency reliability and construct validity with varied precision when administered to males living with HIV in London, UK. Clinicians and researchers may use the HDQ to measure the nature and extent of disability experienced by PLHIV in the UK, and to inform HIV service provision to address the health-related challenges among PLHIV.
Neutron and X-ray analysis of the Fenna–Matthews–Olson photosynthetic antenna complex from Prosthecochloris aestuarii
Authors: Lu Xun , Selvaraj Brinda , Ghimire-Rijal Sudipa , Orf Gregory S. , Meilleur Flora , Blankenship Robert E. , Cuneo Matthew J. , Myles Dean A. A.
Published: February 2019

The Fenna–Matthews–Olson protein from Prosthecochloris aestuarii (PaFMO) has been crystallized in a new form that is amenable to high-resolution X-ray and neutron analysis. The crystals belonged to space group H3, with unit-cell parameters a = b = 83.64, c = 294.78 Å, and diffracted X-rays to ∼1.7 Å resolution at room temperature. Large PaFMO crystals grown to volumes of 0.3–0.5 mm3 diffracted neutrons to 2.2 Å resolution on the MaNDi neutron diffractometer at the Spallation Neutron Source. The resolution of the neutron data will allow direct determination of the positions of H atoms in the structure, which are believed to be fundamentally important in tuning the individual excitation energies of bacteriochlorophylls in this archetypal photosynthetic antenna complex. This is one of the largest unit-cell systems yet studied using neutron diffraction, and will allow the first high-resolution neutron analysis of a photosynthetic antenna complex.
AI: from rational agents to socially responsible agents
Authors: Vetrò Antonio , Santangelo Antonio , Beretta Elena , De Martin Juan Carlos
Published: February 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the limitations of the mainstream definition of artificial intelligence (AI) as a rational agent, which currently drives the development of most AI systems. The authors advocate the need of a wider range of driving ethical principles for designing more socially responsible AI agents.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors follow an experience-based line of reasoning by argument to identify the limitations of the mainstream definition of AI, which is based on the concept of rational agents that select, among their designed actions, those which produce the maximum expected utility in the environment in which they operate. The problem of biases in the data used by AI is taken as example, and a small proof of concept with real datasets is provided.

Findings

The authors observe that biases measurements on the datasets are sufficient to demonstrate potential risks of discriminations when using those data in AI rational agents. Starting from this example, the authors discuss other open issues connected to AI rational agents and provide a few general ethical principles derived from the White Paper AI at the service of the citizen, recently published by Agid, the agency of the Italian Government which designs and monitors the evolution of the IT systems of the Public Administration.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the scientific debate on the governance and the ethics of AI with a critical analysis of the mainstream definition of AI.
What we know and need to know about the gamification of advertising
Authors: Vashisht Devika , Royne Marla B. , S. Sreejesh
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Advergames, or integrated brand messages within digital games, have received considerable attention from researchers and practitioners. Despite increased use of advergames as a brand promotion strategy by a range of well-known brands, limited understanding exists about a number of issues related to the effective use of such games. This paper aims to critically review the literature on advergames by performing a detailed analysis of existing research in this area and propose an organizing framework. Based on this framework, the authors discuss key issues with current understanding and propose important questions for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This literature review follows Webster and Watson’s (2002) concept-driven systematic review methodology elaborating on the key antecedents and consequences identified in advergame studies (what we know: current knowledge), followed by the discussion of key factors that should be investigated as antecedents and consequences (literature gaps).

Findings

This paper presents a review and synthesis of advergame studies based on Terlutter and Capella’s (2013) integrated marketing communication framework. It identifies game, individual and social factors and suggests how these factors could affect a consumer’s brand-related cognitive, attitudinal and behavioral responses. The authors further propose an advergame framework that identifies two different “unit of analysis” (antecedents and consequences of game factors and antecedents and consequences of individual and social factors), which can be used by scholars to center their research efforts in a more detailed fashion.

Research limitations/implications

Research questions posed in this literature review indicate that future research in the area of advergames should focus on investigating the effects of various game, individual and social factors on consumers’ cognitive, affective and behavioral responses.

Practical implications

The advergame framework provided here provides firms with a guide to the factors that may affect their consumers’ cognitive, affective and behavioral responses and helps them in developing effective advergames.

Originality/value

The paper provides a comprehensive review of the advergame literature that has not been done before and develops a general advergame framework that can be applied in all contexts and will guide future studies in the area. Overall, the study helps the researchers to identify critical issues and concepts related to advergames and shapes future research in the field.
Big five personality traits, entrepreneurial self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intention
Authors: Şahin Faruk , Karadağ Hande , Tuncer Büşra
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The literature considers the big five personality traits and entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) to be important individual-level factors that determine entrepreneurial intention. However, little is known about the profiles of personal characteristics of individuals who express a high level of entrepreneurial intention. The purpose of this paper is to carry out a comparative analysis of personal characteristics that contribute to new business start-up intention.

Design/methodology/approach

Using survey data from two samples, fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) was performed to extract patterns of personal characteristics (i.e. the big five personality traits and ESE) that impact entrepreneurial intention.

Findings

The outcomes of the analyses demonstrate that a high level of entrepreneurial intention can be realized through multiple configurations of the big five personality traits and ESE.

Practical implications

This paper can inform practice on entrepreneurship education. Specifically, the paper includes implications for the development of ESE, and for understanding multiple configurations of personal characteristics that lead to a high level of entrepreneurial intention.

Originality/value

This paper addresses an identified need to understand how personal characteristics operate conjointly and among individuals.
How does family support work when older adults obtain information from mobile internet?
Authors: Xiong Jie , Zuo Meiyun
Published: February 2019

Purpose

More and more older adults begin to use the mobile internet to obtain information. However, the quality of information obtained through mobile internet by older adults is hard to be guaranteed. The purpose of this paper is to study the role of family support when older adults obtain information from mobile internet.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted a survey of 263 older adults who owned mobile internet devices such as smartphones or tablet PCs. The theory hypotheses are tested using partial least squares techniques.

Findings

For older adults, family support is the influencing factor of mobile internet literacy improvement. Family emotional support has stronger impacts on the improvement both of mobile internet skill literacy and of mobile internet information literacy than family cognitive support has. Furthermore, the improvement of both mobile internet skill literacy and of mobile internet information literacy hs positive impacts on the quality improvement of obtained information by older adults.

Practical implications

This paper gives advice on how family members can support older adults during their obtaining information from mobile internet to improve their mobile internet literacy and quality of obtained information.

Originality/value

This study examines the factors that influence mobile internet literacy and quality of obtained information among older adults from the perspective of family support in the Chinese mobile internet context. The research results enrich the internet literacy theory and the information quality theory.
Effects of low carbon supply chain practices on environmental sustainability
Authors: Das Chiranjit , Jharkharia Sanjay
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically examine the relationships between low carbon supply chain practices and their relationships with environmental sustainability (ES) and the economic performances (EP) of firms. The study also includes an examination of the low carbon supply chain practices that are utilized by Indian manufacturing firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a questionnaire-based survey, the data received from 83 Indian manufacturing firms was analyzed using a variance-based structural equation modeling technique to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The study indicates that carbon governance is a strategic imperative for the adoption of low carbon supply chain practices. Similarly, low carbon product and process design (LCPPD), manufacturing and logistics lead to improved ES. In addition, low carbon purchasing is positively related to the adoption of LCPPD, manufacturing and logistics. No significant relationship was found between the adoption of low carbon supply chain practices and the EP of a firm.

Practical implications

The findings of this study may assist manufacturing managers in prioritizing operational practices for the reduction of emissions.

Originality/value

This study provides two major contributions to green supply chain management. First, it provides comprehensive empirical evidence on low carbon supply chain practices that are being followed by Indian manufacturing firms. Second, this study also empirically validated a structural model of low carbon supply chain practices.
Evaluating European LIFE conservation projects: Improvements in survival of an endangered vulture
Authors: Badia‐Boher Jaume Adrià , Sanz‐Aguilar Ana , de la Riva Manuel , Gangoso Laura , van Overveld Thijs , García‐Alfonso Marina , Luzardo Octavio P. , Suarez‐Pérez Alejandro , Donázar José Antonio
Published: February 2019

Long‐lived avian scavengers are threatened worldwide and thus, are common targets of conservation plans. However, scientific evidence of both the factors limiting populations and effectiveness of management actions are greatly needed in order to develop more efficient and successful conservation strategies.

We assessed the effectiveness of conservation actions applied within a LIFE‐Nature project aimed at improving the long‐term survival of the critically endangered Canarian Egyptian vulture: including education campaigns for public awareness and control of illegal poisoning and the modification of power lines to reduce the risk of accidents. We formulated a multievent capture–mark–recapture model to obtain estimates of survival for juvenile, subadult and adult birds accounting for probabilities of resight, recovery and losses of metal and colour rings.

Models supported a substantial enhancement in survival for subadult and adult birds and a moderate improvement for juveniles after the implementation of LIFE actions. Ring loss probabilities became notably high in the middle to long term.

Poisoning events became very rare after LIFE was implemented, suggesting a positive effect of environmental education and awareness campaigns. Entanglements and collisions in power lines were also efficiently mitigated. Instead, electrocutions became the most identified cause of death in the post‐LIFE stage.

Synthesis and applications. Our results highlight the improvement of survival in a threatened island vulture population after the implementation of a European LIFE conservation project. On small islands, with small human populations and few stakeholders, education and awareness campaigns can be especially effective for biodiversity conservation. We also demonstrate the need to complement conservation programmes with long‐term monitoring, which is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of actions, especially for long‐lived species.
Radicle emergence with increased temperatures following summer dispersal in Trillium camschatcense: A species with deep simple double morphophysiological dormancy in seeds
Authors: Kondo Tetsuya , Walck Jeffrey L. , Hidayati Siti N.
Published: February 2019

Seeds with deep simple double morphophysiological dormancy (MPD) need cold stratification during the first winter after dispersal for radicle emergence, followed by the summer for root and bud development and finally a second winter for shoot emergence. In a previous study, we demonstrated that Trillium camschatcense seeds have this type of dormancy with radicles emerging from most seeds after the first winter. However, radicles also emerged from a few seeds in autumn during the same year as dispersal. We thought that temperatures after seed dispersal played a role in radicle emergence before the first winter. To confirm our idea, we investigated germination phenology outdoors, relationships between temperatures after seed dispersal and radicle emergence in the first year outdoors, radicle emergence in the first winter under varied temperatures using incubators, and shoot emergence from seeds with an emerged radicle in the first year outdoors. Our phenology study confirmed that T. camschatcense seeds have deep simple double MPD. Over 7 years, 0.2–7.5% of radicles emerged in the first year before winter and these percentages were moderately positively correlated with temperatures, especially minimum temperatures. Increasing August and September temperatures increased radicle emergence in the laboratory. Shoots emerged from seeds with an emerged radicle in the first year after the first winter. With increased autumn temperatures in warmer regions or with global warming, we predict that germination phenology may shift: increased radicle emergence in the first year and shoot emergence following the first (and not second) winter.
SLTs’ conceptions about their own and parents’ roles during intervention with preschool children
Authors: Davies Karen E. , Marshall Julie , Brown Laura J. E. , Goldbart Juliet
Published: February 2019

Background

Current research investigating collaboration between parents and speech and language therapists (SLTs) indicates that the SLT role is characterized by therapist‐led practice. Co‐working with parents of children with speech and language difficulties is less frequently described. In order to embrace co‐working during intervention, the SLT role may need to be reframed, focusing on acquiring skills in the role of coach as well as the role of planning intervention and treating children.

Aims

To report (1) SLTs’ conceptions about their own roles during intervention for pre‐school children with speech and language difficulties; and (2) SLTs’ conceptions of parents’ roles during intervention.

Methods & Procedures

A qualitative study used individual, semi‐structured interviews with 12 SLTs working with pre‐school children. Open‐ended questions investigated SLTs’ expectation of parents, experience of working with families, and the SLTs’ conception of their roles during assessment, intervention and decision‐making. Thematic network analysis was used to identify basic, organizational and global themes.

Results & Outcomes

SLTs had three conceptions about their own role during intervention: treating, planning and coaching. The roles of treating and planning were clearly formulated, but the conception of their role as coach was more implicit in their discourse. SLTs’ conception of parents’ roles focused on parents as implementers of activities and only occasionally as change agents.

Conclusions & Implications

Collaboration that reflects co‐working may necessitate changes in the conception about the role for both SLTs and parents. SLTs and parents may need to negotiate roles, with parents assuming learner and adaptor roles and SLTs adopting a coaching role to activate greater involvement of parents. Applying conceptual change theory offers new possibilities for understanding and enabling changes in SLTs’ conception of roles, potentially initiating a deeper understanding of how to achieve co‐working during speech and language intervention.
Computed tomography colonography: Retrospective comparison of laxative plus barium tagging versus iodinated contrast only for bowel preparation and faecal tagging
Authors: Perry Elisa , Moore Helen , Reeve Jane
Published: February 2019

Introduction

There is no consensus as to the most optimal bowel preparation regime for Computed Tomographic Colonography (CTC). Concerns regarding laxative bowel preparation (LBP) include tolerability, adverse effects and complexity of regimen. Two hospitals in Auckland changed CTC bowel preparation from standard LBP to Gastrografin (GG) in 2015. The aim of this study is to retrospectively assess objective and subjective quality measures of these different bowel preparations.

Methods

Two study groups were selected retrospectively from patients who underwent CTC at two hospitals in September‐October 2013 (LBP) and September‐ October 2015 (GG). Each study group comprised 60 patients (30 consecutive patients from each hospital). Patients were randomized and anonymized to reduce bias in analysis. Study patients were assessed independently by three experienced Radiologists using a simple grading system derived from the literature.

Results

There was significantly less faecal residue (P = 0.006) and better faecal tagging (P = 0.001) in the right colon in the GG group. There was significantly higher fluid residue in the GG group than the LBP group (P = 0.0001), particularly in the right colon, with better fluid tagging in the GG group(P ≤ 0.0001). Higher Hounsfield Units of residual fluid were observed in the GG group (P ≤ 0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference in the subjective quality scores (P = 0.219), between the two preparations.

Conclusions

This study has demonstrated better faecal cleansing and faecal tagging in the GG group. Higher fluid residue in the GG group was offset by better fluid tagging.
Modelling momentum winner/loser asymmetry: the sources of winner and loser returns in the ASX200 and S&P500
Authors: Inglis Nick , Vanstone Bruce , Hahn Tobias
Published: February 2019

There is an established body of work showing that the sources of momentum returns change over time. This paper finds that there is also winner/loser asymmetry – that the sources of the winner and loser components of momentum returns differ from each other at the same point in time. Together, these results raise concerns about the prospect of finding a single cause for momentum profits, as most efforts to date have tried to do. Rather, they indicate that investigation should proceed using time‐varying, nonparametric and ensemble techniques.
Development of the Australian Ageing Semantic Differential, a new instrument for measuring Australian medical student attitudes towards older people
Authors: Wilson Mark A. G. , Tran Yvonne , Wilson Ian , Kurrle Susan
Published: February 2019

Objective

This study outlines development of an instrument for measuring attitudes of medical students towards older people, the Australian Ageing Semantic Differential (AASD).

Methods

Words for AASD scales were derived from the reflections of 151 third year medical students attending two Australian medical schools. A pilot study of the AASD was then undertaken with third year students at another medical school to confirm usability and reliability of the instrument. After slight modification, a larger study using the AASD was then undertaken of medical students attending the three institutions, in order to obtain sufficient data for exploratory factor analysis.

Results

n = 321 (response rate 73%). Mean AASD score 73.2/114. Cronbach's α = 0.86. There was no evidence of sequence bias. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) demonstrated four factors: Instrumentality; Personal Appeal; Experience; and Sociability. A lower mean instrumentality subscore for all students and a higher mean experience subscore for female students were noted.

Conclusions

The AASD instrument proved internally reliable, and its use was generalisable to different groups of medical students. Its design ensured construct and face validity, and responses were not affected by sequencing bias. This study has revealed positive student attitudes towards older people. Variation in attitudes requires further investigation.
Dl‐3‐N‐butylphthalide promotes angiogenesis and upregulates sonic hedgehog expression after cerebral ischemia in rats
Authors: Zhou Pan‐Ting , Wang Li‐Ping , Qu Mei‐Jie , Shen Hui , Zheng Hao‐Ran , Deng Li‐Dong , Ma Yuan‐Yuan , Wang Yu‐Yang , Wang Yong‐Ting , Tang Yao‐Hui , Tian Heng‐Li , Zhang Zhi‐Jun , Yang Guo‐Yuan
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Dl‐3‐N‐butylphthalide (NBP), a small molecule drug used clinically in the acute phase of ischemic stroke, has been shown to improve functional recovery and promote angiogenesis and collateral vessel circulation after experimental cerebral ischemia. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is unknown.

Aims

To explore the potential molecular mechanism of angiogenesis induced by NBP after cerebral ischemia.

Results

NBP treatment attenuated body weight loss, reduced brain infarct volume, and improved neurobehavioral outcomes during focal ischemia compared to the control rats (P < 0.05). NBP increased the number of CD31+ microvessels, the number of CD31+/BrdU+ proliferating endothelial cells, and the functional vascular density (P < 0.05). Further study demonstrated that NBP also promoted the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and angiopoietin‐1 (P < 0.05), which was accompanied by upregulated sonic hedgehog expression in astrocytes in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusion

NBP treatment promoted the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and angiopoietin‐1, induced angiogenesis, and improved neurobehavioral recovery. These effects were associated with increased sonic hedgehog expression after NBP treatment. Our results broadened the clinical application of NBP to include the later phase of ischemia.
Multi‐objective calibration of RothC using measured carbon stocks and auxiliary data of a long‐term experiment in Switzerland
Authors: Cagnarini Claudia , Renella Giancarlo , Mayer Jochen , Hirte Juliane , Schulin Rainer , Costerousse Benjamin , Della Marta Anna , Orlandini Simone , Menichetti Lorenzo
Published: February 2019

Interactions between model parameters and low spatiotemporal resolution of available data mean that conventional soil organic carbon (SOC) models are often affected by equifinality, with consequent uncertainty in SOC forecasts. Estimation of belowground C inputs is another major source of uncertainty in SOC modelling. Models are usually calibrated on SOC stocks and fluxes from long‐term experiments (LTEs), whereas other point data are not used for constraining the model parameters. We used data from an agricultural long‐term (>65 years) fertilization experiment to test a multi‐objective parameter estimation approach on the RothC model, combining SOC data from different fertilization treatments with microbial biomass, basal respiration and Zimmermann's fractions data. We also compared two methods to estimate the belowground C inputs: a conventional scaling of belowground biomass from crop harvest yield and an alternative approach based on constant belowground C for cereals measured experimentally in the field. The resulting posterior parameter distributions still suffered from some equifinality; the most stable C pool kinetic constants and composition of exogenous organic matter were the most sensitive parameters. The use of fixed belowground C inputs for cereals improved the model performance, reducing the importance of treatment‐specific parameters and processes. The introduction of microbial biomass and basal respiration data was effective for increasing determination of the calibration, but also suggested a change in the model structure: the microbial biomass pool, which is proportional to the C inputs in the traditional models, could be represented by different microbial physiology functions.

Highlights

Multi‐objective calibration with SOC and microbial or soil fractionation data can reduce model uncertainty.

We compared different methods to estimate belowground C inputs on a long‐term trial in Switzerland.

Fixed belowground C inputs measured in the field gave the best model performance.

Microbial data can improve model calibration, but a change in model structure is suggested.
Effective care for Māori with bipolar disorder: A qualitative study
Authors: Staps Cassandra , Crowe Marie , Lacey Cameron
Published: February 2019

Māori have high rates of bipolar disorder (BD) and mental health service use. Despite the high prevalence and the impact on functioning and whānau (family), there is limited research on treatment interventions for Māori with bipolar disorder and indeed on Māori and indigenous mental health generally. A qualitative study combining individual interviews and focus groups was conducted with the aim to explore mental health clinicians’ and Māori mental health workers’ perspectives of effective treatment for Māori with BD. Sixteen participants took part in either individual interviews, focus groups or both. The study found the importance of a Māori worldview; tikanga Māori (rituals); understanding the whānau context, whakawhanaugatanga (connection), the powhiri (introduction) process, and whakarongo (listening) were key to working effectively with Māori who had BD. Both the interviews and focus groups identified similar concepts. The concept of whakawhanaungatanga (connection) captures the themes from the individual interviews and focus groups. The participants in this study identified the person and their culture rather than the psychiatric diagnosis as crucial to providing effective care to Māori with BD. Without a foundation in whakawhanaungatanga, engagement, diagnosis, treatment adherence, and the process of recovery are unlikely to be as effective for Māori with BD. It was evident from the findings that it was the person not the diagnosis that was central to therapeutic engagement.
Notch1 activates angiogenic regulator Netrin4 in endothelial cells
Authors: Liu Qiang , Allen Thaddeus D. , Song Wei , Wada Youichiro , Lobe Corrinne G. , Liu Ju
Published: February 2019

Netrin4 (NTN4) is a chemotropic factor that regulates angiogenesis. We found that endothelial expression of the activated, intracellular domain of Notch1 (NICD1), significantly up‐regulated NTN4 mRNA as well as intracellular NTN4 protein in both transgenic mice and cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Notch1 activation also increased NTN4 secretion from HUVECs. We subsequently demonstrated that NICD1 bound to CSL (CBF1, Suppressor of Hairless, Lag‐1), a core component of Notch transcription complex, at the −53 element of the human NTN4 gene promoter. Loss of the −53 element compromised NICD1‐induced NTN4 expression. Our results suggest a conserved role for Notch signalling in transcriptional regulation of endothelial NTN4.
Postural Tremor Is Associated with Gait and Balance Impairments in Community‐Dwelling Older People
Authors: Xu Xitong , Chen Jie , Chen Meijie , Gu Zhuqin , Ji Shaozhen , Liu Shuying , Chan Piu
Published: February 2019

Objectives

We sought to assess associations of postural tremor with gait and balance impairments among community‐dwelling older people in both cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses.

Design

A prospective cohort study.

Setting

Communities in Beijing, China.

Participants

This study included 7075 individuals aged 55 years or older.

Measurements

Postural tremor was assessed using a two‐step method (tremor screening followed by a confirmation examination of positive cases) at baseline. Gait and balance performances were measured with the Tinetti Mobility Test at baseline and 1 year later.

Results

At baseline, 45 (24.7%) of 182 tremor cases vs 663 (9.6%) of 6893 controls had gait and balance impairments. At 1‐year follow‐up, 19 (21.1%) of 90 tremor cases vs 416 (9.8%) of 4262 controls experienced a rapid decline in gait and balance performance. After controlling for potential confounders, postural tremor was associated with gait and balance impairments at baseline (odds ratio [OR] = 1.77; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.20‐2.62; p = .004) and a rapid decline in gait and balance performance at 1‐year follow‐up (OR = 1.99; 95% CI = 1.17‐3.39; p = .01).

Conclusion

In this population‐based cohort study, we found postural tremor was associated with gait and balance impairments among community‐dwelling older people in both cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses. Our findings suggest that motor function should be routinely evaluated and monitored in older people with postural tremor. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:799–803, 2019.
Nanostructured lipid carriers incorporating prickly pear seed oil for the encapsulation of vitamin A
Authors: AlZahabi Sham , Sakr Omar S. , Ramadan Adham A.
Published: February 2019

Background

Solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) are dispersions synthesized by replacing liquid lipid in an o/w emulsion with solid lipids. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) improve on some of the major limitations of the SLNs as NLCs use liquid lipids along with crystalline solid fatty acids to build the core.

Aims

This work aims to investigate the potential advantage of using Prickly Pear (PP) seed oil to develop NLCs for topical delivery of vitamin A.

Methods

Four PP‐based NLC formulations with varying composition have been developed using the hot homogenization method and compared with a SLN formulation that is free of PP oil. The effect of this variation on entrapment efficiency, in vitro release behavior, and ex vivo permeation, was investigated. Additionally, particle size and polydispersity index (PDI) upon storage, zeta potential, and thermal behavior were characterized.

Results

PP‐based NLCs exhibited smaller particle size in the range of 215‐244 nm, and PDI <0.3. In contrast, SLN having no PP oil had a larger diameter of 365 nm, with heterogeneous distribution (0.92 PDI). In assessing the in vitro release, an inverse relationship was observed between the diffusion flux and the entrapment efficiency. The changes in the constituting matrix of the NLCs lead to a significant potential variation in their properties, and hence allowing it to be tailored for specific usages.

Conclusions

In all cases, NLCs formulations have shown superior attributes to the SLN carriers. This was linked in most cases to the presence of PP oil, supporting the value of utilizing PP oil in cosmeceutical applications.
Flawed self‐assessment in hand hygiene: A major contributor to infections in clinical practice?
Authors: Kelcikova Simona , Mazuchova Lucia , Bielena Lubica , Filova Lenka
Published: February 2019

Aim

To assess the quality of self‐assessment and the attitude of healthcare workers (HCWs) to hand hygiene (HH) as possible factors of unsatisfactory HH compliance in clinical practice.

Background

Noncompliance of HH causes healthcare‐acquired infections (HAI) in patients. It is assumed that HH‐related infections make up approximately 80% of all infections in clinical practice. Our observations suggest that self‐assessment and attitude might be surprisingly important factors.

Design and method

The cross‐sectional approach using questionnaire and direct observation was applied. We followed STROBE guidelines. In total, questionnaires of 639 HCWs of surgical departments were included in the study, and 127 HCWs had been also directly observed.

Results

High self‐assessment regarding HH compliance and its knowledge was reported by 74% and 83% of HCWs, respectively. At the same time, only 51% of HCWs positively evaluated their colleagues with respect to HH. Similar to previous studies, we have found significant differences between physicians and nurses regarding the level of self‐assessment, attitude and perception of HH. Physicians were more critical in self‐assessment and considered HH less important compared to nurses. The observations revealed drawbacks in HH practices. The high level of self‐overassessment might be a contributing factor to noncompliance with HH.

Conclusions

It is necessary to establish systematic professional training and education of HCWs in relation to their HH, and to continuously monitor and evaluate the level of self‐assessment in clinical practice, mainly in surgery.

Relevance to clinical practice

A reasonable objective level of self‐assessment and attitude to HH are the most important conditions for preventing of HAI in patients.
Expectations and experiences of nursing students in supporting new mothers to breastfeed: A descriptive qualitative study
Authors: Yang Shu‐Fei , Burns Elaine , Salamonson Yenna , Schmied Virginia
Published: February 2019

Background

Improving breastfeeding support to mothers has been the focus of several national and international health organisations. There is evidence that theoretical and clinical education improves breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among nursing and other health professional students prior to clinical placement, to support women who are breastfeeding.

Aims and objectives

To explore the expectations and experiences of Taiwanese nursing students in supporting breastfeeding on clinical placement. To gain additional insight into student experience, we also sought the perspectives of mothers, nursing staff and teachers about the role of nursing students in supporting breastfeeding mothers.

Design

A qualitative descriptive approach guided this study.

Methods

Focus groups and small group interviews were conducted with four participant groups in southern Taiwan. Ethical approval was obtained prior to data collection. The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research checklist was used.

Findings

Three main themes emerged from the data that captured the nursing students’ experiences during clinical practice, which were “High expectations”; “The reality is different”; and “Improving confidence in students.” The study found that students lacked confidence in supporting breastfeeding in the clinical setting. Students were expected to support women to achieve their breastfeeding goals under the supervision. The students highlighted the importance of establishing trust to effectively support mothers, and for the students to feel confident to provide the breastfeeding information.

Conclusions

Despite structured theoretical breastfeeding education prior to clinical placement, students did not feel they were adequately prepared to support women who are breastfeeding during their clinical placement. The findings demonstrated the need for further support in developing effective communication skills and building confidence prior to clinical placement.

Relevance to clinical practice

Enhancing the content of theoretical and simulated breastfeeding education to incorporate women's breastfeeding experience combined with realistic clinical student allocation could serve to improve students’ confidence in supporting breastfeeding.
The preparation and investigation of spinosin–phospholipid complex self-microemulsifying drug delivery system based on the absorption characteristics of spinosin
Authors: Song Panpan , Lai Changjiangsheng , Xie Junbo , Zhang Yanqing
Published: February 2019

Objectives

The aim of this research was to investigate the intestinal absorption characteristics and mechanisms of spinosin (SPI), and a new dosage form was prepared to increase the intestinal absorption of SPI.

Methods

In this study, the intestinal absorption characteristics and mechanisms of SPI were first investigated using in situ absorption model and Caco-2 monolayer model. Subsequently, the phospholipid complex (PLC) loaded with SPI was prepared followed by a self-microemulsifying drug delivery system (SMEDDS) technique for developing a more efficient formulation.

Key findings

The results showed that the absorption rate constant (0.02 h−1) and absorption percentage (10%) of SPI were small. Paracellular and active transport pathways mainly mediated the intestinal absorption of SPI. Moreover, SPI-PLC-SMEDDS showed a nanoscale particle size and excellent dispersibility in vitro. The cellular uptake and transportation properties of SPI-PLC-SMEDDS in the Caco-2 cell model were improved significantly. Besides, a statistically dramatically higher oral bioavailability (almost fivefold) was observed following the oral administration of SPI-PLC-SMEDDS than free SPI on the basis of pharmacokinetic experiment results. Furthermore, the SPI-PLC-SMEDDS exhibited certain immunization.

Conclusions

SPI-PLC-SMEDDS could be a promising oral drug delivery system to improve the absorption of SPI.
Association of chronic enteropathy activity index, blood urea concentration, and risk of death in dogs with protein‐losing enteropathy
Authors: Kathrani Aarti , Sánchez‐Vizcaíno Fernando , Hall Edward J.
Published: February 2019

Background

Malnutrition is associated with increased risk of premature death in humans with inflammatory bowel disease.

Hypothesis/Objective

To determine if historical, clinical, and laboratory markers of malnutrition in dogs at the time of histologic diagnosis of protein‐losing enteropathy (PLE) caused by chronic enteropathy (CE) or lymphangiectasia are associated with increased risk of death.

Animals

Seventy‐one client‐owned dogs diagnosed with PLE.

Methods

The medical records were retrospectively searched for cases of PLE, diagnosed with CE or lymphangiectasia on the basis of histopathology of intestinal biopsies at a referral hospital. For each case, various variables at the time of diagnostic investigation were recorded and follow‐up obtained by telephone contact with the referring veterinarian.

Results

A multivariable cox model indicated that canine chronic enteropathy activity index (CCEAI) and blood urea concentration were significantly associated with death (P values <.01). For each unit increase in CCEAI, the hazard of death increased by 22.9% (confidence interval [CI]: 6.9%‐41.2%). Dogs with a CCEAI of ≤8 and dogs with urea ≤7 mmol/L survived 256 days longer (P = .001, CI: 106.7‐405.4 days) and 279 days longer (P = .009, CI: 70.0‐488.7 days) than those with a CCEAI of >8 and urea >7 mmol/L on average, respectively, when followed up for 647 days.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Increased CCEAI and blood urea concentration at the time of diagnosis might be predictive of death in dogs with PLE caused by CE or lymphangiectasia.
Recent history, current status, conservation and management of native mammalian carnivore species in Great Britain
Authors: Sainsbury Katherine A. , Shore Richard F. , Schofield Henry , Croose Elizabeth , Campbell Ruairidh D. , Mcdonald Robbie A.
Published: February 2019

After historical declines in population sizes and ranges, we compare and contrast the recent history and contemporary variation in the status of Great Britain's eight native mammalian carnivore species from the 1960s to 2017.

WildcatFelis silvestrisconservation status is unfavourable and is masked by hybridisation with domestic catsFelis catus. Red foxesVulpes vulpesremain widespread but are currently declining. European otterLutra lutra, European pine martenMartes martesand European polecatMustela putoriuspopulations are characterised by rapid recovery. Otters have almost completely recolonised Great Britain, polecats have expanded their range throughout southern Britain from refugia in Wales and pine martens have expanded their range from the Scottish Highlands. European badgersMeles meleshave generally increased in population density. Status assessments of stoatsMustela ermineaand weaselsMustela nivalisare data‐deficient but available evidence suggests that stoats may have increased while weasels may have declined.

Anthropogenic processes influencing carnivore status include legal protections, habitat quality, reintroductions, predator control, pollutants, hybridisation and diseases and their associated control practices. Population effects of contaminants, such as anticoagulant rodenticides, remain poorly characterised. The widespread interface with domestic and feral cats makes the wildcat's situation precarious. Recent declines in rabbitOryctolagus cuniculuspopulations are a concern, given that several carnivore species depend on them as food.

We conclude that, with the exception of the wildcat, the status of Great Britain's mammalian carnivores has markedly improved since the 1960s. Better understanding of the social aspects of interactions between humans and expanding predator populations is needed if conflict is to be avoided and long‐term co‐existence with people is to be possible.