bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grain size effect and microstructure influence on the energy storage properties of fine‐grained BaTiO3‐based ceramics
Authors: Liu Baibo , Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Ruoxi , Li Longtu
Published: April 2017

The dependence of energy storage properties on grain size was investigated in BaTiO3‐based ferroelectric ceramics. Modified BaTiO3 ceramics with different grain size were fabricated by two‐step sintering method from BaTiO3 powders doped with Al2O3 and SiO2 by aqueous chemical coating. For samples doped with ZnO sintering aid in addition to Al2O3‐SiO2, the density and breakdown strength increased significantly. In general, samples with smaller grains have lower polarization but higher energy storage efficiency. Al2O3‐SiO2‐ZnO‐doped samples with average grain size of 118±2 nm have an energy density of 0.83±0.04 J/cm3. Obvious segregation of doping elements in second phase and grain boundary was observed by TEM‐EDS. Impedance spectroscopy further explains the relationship between microstructure and properties. Compared to common energy storage ceramics, the grain size of this low‐cost ceramics sintered at relatively low temperature is small, and the pilot scale production has been well completed. All these features make the utilization in multilayer devices and industrial mass production possible. In addition, the obtained rules are helpful in further development of energy storage ceramics.
The Leadership Paradox in EU Foreign Policy
Authors: Aggestam Lisbeth , Johansson Markus
Published: April 2017

This article examines a leadership paradox at the heart of EU foreign policy between the demand for effective European leadership, and leadership legitimacy embedded in state practices. This paradox is manifested in the Lisbon treaty that delegated significant formal leadership functions to the European level. We probe the question how and by whom leadership can and should be performed in EU foreign policy. To answer this question, we advance a new theoretical framework drawing on sociological institutionalism and role theory. We argue that leadership should be understood as a social role shaped in a process of interaction between leader and followers. We contribute with new empirical knowledge of leadership role relations based on an interview survey conducted in 2016. The empirical results point to role conflicts over the formal leadership functions in EU foreign policy and the emergence of new informal leadership practices by EU member states.
The EU's Peace and Security Narrative: Views from EU Strategic Partners in Asia
Authors: Chaban Natalia , Miskimmon Alister , O'Loughlin Ben
Published: April 2017

The EU has consistently struggled to forge a foreign policy narrative which promotes internal cohesion and supports the EU's efforts to exert international influence. The 2016 EU Global Strategy is the latest iteration of collective efforts to tie strategy and purpose to the EU's coherent identity in the world. This study compares the EU's strategic partners of peace and security with narratives about the EU held in the EU's strategic partners in Asia. Whilst we find reasonable coherence in the EU's projection of the international system and its role in it, its identity as an actor, and its response to policy issues on the ground, views from Asia largely contest these claims. This article employs a strategic narrative approach to conceptualize and empirically trace how the formation, projection and reception of EU narratives are part of broader circuits of communication through which EU might be recognized, legitimized and achieve influence.
Informant discrepancy defines discrete, clinically useful autism spectrum disorder subgroups
Authors: Lerner Matthew D. , De Los Reyes Andres , Drabick Deborah A.G. , Gerber Alan H. , Gadow Kenneth D.
Published: April 2017

Background

Discrepancy between informants (parents and teachers) in severity ratings of core symptoms commonly arise when assessing autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Whether such discrepancy yields unique information about the ASD phenotype and its clinical correlates has not been examined. We examined whether degree of discrepancy between parent and teacher ASD symptom ratings defines discrete, clinically meaningful subgroups of youth with ASD using an efficient, cost‐effective procedure.

Methods

Children with ASD (N = 283; 82% boys; Mage = 10.5 years) were drawn from a specialty ASD clinic. Parents and teachers provided ratings of the three core DSM‐IV‐TR domains of ASD symptoms (communication, social, and perseverative behavior) with the Child and Adolescent Symptom Inventory‐4R (CASI‐4R). External validators included child psychotropic medication status, frequency of ASD‐relevant school‐based services, and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS‐2).

Results

Four distinct subgroups emerged that ranged from large between‐informant discrepancy (informant‐specific) to relative lack of discrepancy (i.e. informant agreement; cross‐situational): Moderate Parent/Low Teacher or Low Parent/Moderate Teacher Severity (Discrepancy), and Moderate or High Symptom Severity (Agreement). Subgroups were highly distinct (mean probability of group assignment = 94%). Relative to Discrepancy subgroups, Agreement subgroups were more likely to receive psychotropic medication, school‐based special education services, and an ADOS‐2 diagnosis. These differential associations would not have been identified based solely on CASI‐4R scores from one informant.

Conclusions

The degree of parent–teacher discrepancy about ASD symptom severity appears to provide more clinically useful information than reliance on a specific symptom domain or informant, and thus yields an innovative, cost‐effective approach to assessing functional impairment. This conclusion stands in contrast to existing symptom clustering approaches in ASD, which treat within‐informant patterns of symptom severity as generalizable across settings. Within‐child variability in symptom expression across settings may yield uniquely useful information for characterizing the ASD phenotype.
Public perception of dermatology and dermatologists in Italy: results from a population‐based national survey
Authors: Gisondi P. , De Angelis G. , Venturelli G. , Girolomoni G.
Published: April 2017

Introduction

The public perception of dermatology and dermatologists may be very relevant in guiding strategies for improving dermatologic care but it has been poorly investigated in Europe.

Objective

To investigate the public's perception of dermatology and dermatologists in Italy.

Methods

A representative sampling of Italian adults (n = 1500, aged 18–70 years), residing throughout the national territory was interviewed through a population‐based telephone survey using a structured questionnaire.

Results

The majority of interviewed aged between 35 and 54 years (45%) and had an intermediate educational level (57%), were employed (56%), and had at least one child in the family (68%). 70% of the interviewed knew at least one skin disease, particularly psoriasis, dermatitis, urticaria, skin tumours and nevi. The general practitioner resulted to be the first healthcare provider to consult in the case of skin problems for 73% of surveyed, with only 27% referring directly the private dermatologist. The dermatologist was the main referral specialist for psoriasis, pruritus and skin tumours by 66%, 54% and 53% of the sample, respectively. The most common reason for dermatological consultation was the control of nevi. In the case of childhood dermatitis, 52% indicated the paediatrician and 38% the dermatologist as the reference specialist. Almost half of the surveyed turned out to have a trusted dermatologist to consult in the case of skin problems. Finally, among those visited at least one time by a dermatologist, 46% were promoters, that is, they would recommend their dermatologist to a friend (net promoter score, 27).

Conclusions

The general population has a wide‐ranging understanding of skin diseases and the central role of dermatologists in skin care. Patients are looking for technical competence and loyalty, because this lead to more trusted and satisfactory physician–patient relationship. Public campaigns may be relevant in increasing awareness on curability of common skin diseases.
Efficacy and safety of eptifibatide versus tirofiban in acute coronary syndrome patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhou Xiaoqin , Wu Xinyu , Sun Huan , Li Jing
Published: April 2017

Background

Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors were the strongest available antiplatelet therapy and have been shown to reduce cardiac ischemic complications in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. However, evidences are still lacking on the superiority of eptifibatide over tirofiban or vice versa in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Objective

To compare the efficacy and safety of eptifibatide and tirofiban used among patients with acute coronary syndrome by performing a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in Pubmed, Ovid/Medline, Ovid/Embase, Clinicaltrials.gov, CBM and CNKI to identify randomized controlled trials comparing eptifibatide with tirofiban for acute coronary syndrome until November 2015. The methodological quality was assessed with the Cochrane bias risk assessment tool.

Results

1256 patients from 9 randomized controlled trials were finally included. Compared with tirofiban, eptifibatide could reduce more risk of thrombolysis in myocardial infarction minor bleeding (RR 0.61, 95%CI 0.38, 0.98). However, no significant differences were observed for major adverse cardiac events (RR 0.41, 95%CI 0.15 to 1.12), major bleeding, thrombocytopenia in the two treatment groups. The relative treatment benefits were similar in subgroups of patients according to types of acute coronary syndrome, or undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

Conclusion

Available evidence suggests that the safety of eptifibatide is slightly superior to tirofiban in patients with acute coronary syndrome, but no significant difference was observed on efficacy. Future studies should focus on the randomized controlled trials with larger sample, multi‐center, long‐term follow‐up, high quality to compare the two drugs.
Assessing cultivar resistance to Sitodiplosis mosellana (Géhin) (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) using a phenotyping method under semi‐field conditions
Authors: Chavalle S. , Jacquemin G. , De Proft M.
Published: April 2017

The orange wheat blossom midge, Sitodiplosis mosellana (Géhin), can significantly reduce wheat yield. Growing resistant wheat cultivars is an effective way of managing this pest. The assessment of cultivar resistance in field trials is difficult because of unequal pressure of S. mosellana caused by differences in cultivar heading dates relative to the flight period of S. mosellana adult females and huge variations of egg laying conditions from 1 day to another. To overcome these hurdles and to expose all cultivars homogeneously to the pest, an assessment method of cultivar resistance was developed under semi‐field conditions. In 2015, the resistance of 64 winter wheat cultivars to S. mosellana was assessed. Few or no larvae developed in the ears of resistant cultivars, but in susceptible cultivars, large numbers of larvae developed. Seventeen cultivars proved to be resistant, whereas 47 were susceptible. The identification of new resistant cultivars offers more opportunities to manage S. mosellana. The phenotyping method is easy, cheap, efficient and reliable. It can be used to guide the breeding of new resistant wheat cultivars. Using specific midge populations, this method could also be used in research on new resistance mechanisms in winter wheat or in other cereal species.
Pathologic features of mycobacteriosis in naturally infected Syngnathidae and novel transcriptome assembly in association with disease
Authors: Fogelson S B , Fast M D , Leary J , Camus A C
Published: April 2017

Syngnathidae (seahorses, seadragons and pipefish) suffer significant losses from non‐tuberculous mycobacteria. However, they produce markedly different lesions in response to the disease compared to other teleost species, notably infrequent granuloma formation. This study evaluated 270 syngnathid fish, from which 92 were diagnosed with mycobacteriosis by histopathology, culture or both. Microscopic lesions variably consisted of random foci of coagulative necrosis in multiple organs, containing high numbers of free bacteria and large aggregates or sheets of macrophages with cytoplasm laden with acid‐fast bacilli. Mycobacterial associated granulomas were identified in only six seahorses. Five fish had positive cultures with no observed microscopic changes. RNA‐seq of the head kidney was performed to investigate the transcriptome of two infected and six non‐infected lined seahorses Hippocampus erectus. Assembled and annotated putative transcripts serve to enrich the database for this species, as well as provide baseline data for understanding the pathogenesis of mycobacteriosis in seahorses. Putative components of the innate immune system (IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF, NOS, Toll‐like receptor 1, MHC Class I, NF‐κβ, transforming growth factor beta, MyD88) were identified in the RNA‐seq data set. However, a homolog for a key component in the TH1 adaptive immune response, interferon‐gamma, was not identified and may underlie the unique pathologic presentation.
Survival analysis after liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma: A consecutive cohort of 1002 patients
Authors: Lee Eung Chang , Kim Seong Hoon , Park Hyeongmin , Lee Seung Duk , Lee Soon‐Ae , Park Sang‐Jae
Published: April 2017

Background and Aim

The improvements in surgical technique and perioperative management in the recent decades may warrant revisit for survival outcomes and prognostic factors after liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study aimed to analyze the survival outcomes after liver resection for HCC for a consecutive cohort of 1002 patients.

Methods

This study was performed by analyzing the clinicopathological and follow‐up data of 1002 consecutive patients who underwent liver resection for HCC from April 2001 to December 2013. Prognostic factors were investigated by univariate and multivariate analysis, using the Cox's proportional hazards model.

Results

The overall incidence of postoperative complications was 16.1% (n = 161), with an in‐hospital mortality rate of 0.3% (n = 3). The rates of 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year overall survival were 91.9%, 78.9%, and 69.5%, while the rates of 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year recurrence‐free survival were 71.7%, 51.7%, and 43.7%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that patient age, platelet count, intraoperative estimated blood loss (EBL), tumor number, Edmond–Steiner grade, microvascular invasion, major vessel invasion, and intrahepatic metastasis were independent significant prognostic factors affecting the overall survival. Platelet count, intraoperative EBL, maximal tumor size, major vessel invasion, capsule formation, intrahepatic metastasis, cirrhosis, and the pathological stage were independent prognostic factors for recurrence‐free survival.

Conclusions

Survival of patients with HCC after resection should be stratified by various perioperative clinicopathological factors. Platelet count and intraoperative EBL could be considered as one of the powerful predictors of the prognosis and recurrence of HCC in such patients.
Association of decreased expression of the macrophage scavenger receptor MARCO with tumor progression and poor prognosis in human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Sun Haoyu , Song Jiaxi , Weng Chenchun , Xu Jing , Huang Mei , Huang Qiang , Sun Rui , Xiao Weihua , Sun Cheng
Published: April 2017

Background and Aim

The macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO) belongs to the scavenger receptor family; however, few studies have assessed their potentials in modulating inflammatory signaling other than the typical function of pattern recognition and phagocytic clearance. Interestingly, RNA‐Seq analyses of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have identified MARCO as one of the top 30 differentially expressed genes between cancerous and adjacent noncancerous tissues. However, no research has been performed to study MARCO in liver cancer.

Methods

MARCO protein expression was evaluated by immunostaining liver tissue specimens collected from 88 HCC patients, 10 liver cirrhosis patients, 6 metastatic patients, and 5 healthy controls. All sections were reviewed by blinded observers followed by the interpretation of integral optical density per area as a measure of protein intensity.

Results

We observed significantly decreased expression of MARCO in intratumoral tissues of HCC compared with expression in peritumoral tissues. The expression of MARCO declined progressively as the disease condition was aggravated, with the highest expression found in healthy controls and the lowest found in patients with HCC metastasis. Furthermore, MARCO expression decreased along with tumor progression. MARCO+ cells co‐localized with CD68+ cells, indicating predominant expression on macrophages. The overall survival rate was significantly increased in patients with high intratumoral MARCO expression compared with that of patients with low intratumoral MARCO expression.

Conclusions

Our study is the first to demonstrate an association between MARCO expression and the progression and prognosis of HCC.
Barn owls maximize head rotations by a combination of yawing and rolling in functionally diverse regions of the neck
Authors: Krings Markus , Nyakatura John A. , Boumans Mark L. L. M. , Fischer Martin S. , Wagner Hermann
Published: April 2017

Owls are known for their outstanding neck mobility: these birds can rotate their heads more than 270°. The anatomical basis of this extraordinary neck rotation ability is not well understood. We used X‐ray fluoroscopy of living owls as well as forced neck rotations in dead specimens and computer tomographic (CT) reconstructions to study how the individual cervical joints contribute to head rotation in barn owls (Tyto furcata pratincola). The X‐ray data showed the natural posture of the neck, and the reconstructions of the CT‐scans provided the shapes of the individual vertebrae. Joint mobility was analyzed in a spherical coordinate system. The rotational capability was described as rotation about the yaw and roll axes. The analyses suggest a functional division of the cervical spine into several regions. Most importantly, an upper region shows high rolling and yawing capabilities. The mobility of the lower, more horizontally oriented joints of the cervical spine is restricted mainly to the roll axis. These rolling movements lead to lateral bending, effectively resulting in a side shift of the head compared with the trunk during large rotations. The joints in the middle of the cervical spine proved to contribute less to head rotation. The analysis of joint mobility demonstrated how owls might maximize horizontal head rotation by a specific and variable combination of yawing and rolling in functionally diverse regions of the neck.
Market Structure and Broadband Internet Quality
Authors: Molnar Gabor , Savage Scott J.
Published: April 2017

This paper investigates the effects of the number of firms and their product‐type on broadband Internet quality. We estimate a model that relates the actual speeds delivered, in census block groups to the number of wireline and wireless internet service providers (ISP's), cost and demand conditions, and correction terms for the endogeneity of market structure. Model estimates show four main findings. Wireline speeds are often higher in markets with two or more wireline ISP's than with a single wireline ISP. Excluding the correction terms from the analysis understates this effect. Increases in wireline speeds are larger in the upstream direction, and there is no relationship between wireline speeds and the number of wireless ISP's.
The Benefits of Diverse Preferences in Library Consortia
Authors: Jeon Doh‐Shin , Menicucci Domenico
Published: April 2017

We study the case in which a library consortium increases the aggregate payoff of the member libraries. We find that libraries with similar preferences are likely to lose from building a consortium and that those with diverse preferences are likely to gain by doing so. Combining libraries with diverse preferences implies that their valuation for different publishers' journals is more symmetric, which intensifies competition among publishers for scarce combined budgets. A tension between short term and long term considerations might generate a ‘library consortium trap.’ Our insight can be applied to other buyer groups as long as competition is generated by buyers' budget constraints.
Switching Costs in Two‐Sided Markets
Authors: Lam Wing Man Wynne
Published: April 2017

In many markets, there are switching costs and network effects. Yet the literature generally deals with them separately. This paper bridges the gap by analyzing their interaction (or ‘indirect bargain’) in a dynamic two‐sided market. It shows that in the symmetric equilibrium, the classic result that the first‐period price is U‐shaped in switching costs does not emerge, but instead switching costs always intensify the first‐period price competition. Moreover, an increase in switching costs on one side decreases the first‐period price on the other side. Policies that ignore these effects may overestimate the extent to which switching costs can reduce welfare.
A pilot study of nocturnal temporalis muscle activity in TMD diagnostic groups of women
Authors: Wei F. , Van Horn M. H. , Coombs M. C. , She X. , Gonzales T. S. , Gonzalez Y. M. , Scott J. M. , Iwasaki L. R. , Nickel J. C. , Yao H.
Published: April 2017

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) incidences are believed to be related to parafunctional behaviours like teeth clenching. This pilot study aimed to (i) develop an automated clench‐detection algorithm, and (ii) apply the algorithm to test for differences in nocturnal clenching in women with and without TMD. Subjects gave informed consent to participate. Adult women were categorised using Diagnostic Criteria for TMD according to presence/absence (+/−) of both TM joint disc placement (DD) and chronic pain (P) into two groups (+DD+P, −DD−P) with 12 subjects each. Surface temporalis electromyography was recorded during oral tasks performed by subjects at two laboratory sessions. The data were used to characterise muscle activity per N of bite force (μV/N) for each subject, develop the clench‐detection algorithm and test its accuracy. Ambulatory surface temporalis electromyography was self‐recorded by each subject over three nights and analysed using the algorithm and bite force (N) versus muscle activity μV/N calibrations. Bonferroni‐adjusted homoscedastic t‐tests assessed for significant between‐group differences in clenching (P < 0·05). Sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of algorithm‐detected laboratory clenches were all ≥96%. During self‐recordings 95% of clenches had durations of <4 s and peak forces of <10 N in both groups. Mean clench durations were significantly longer (P = 0·042) in +DD+P (1·9 ± 0·8 s) than −DD−P subjects (1·4 ± 0·4 s). Mean temporalis duty factors (%clench time/total recording time) were significantly larger (P = 0·041) in +DD+P (0·47 ± 0·34%) than −DD−P (0·26 ±0·22%) subjects. Nocturnal temporalis muscle activities detected by a validated algorithm were longer per clench and recording time in +DD+P compared to −DD−P women.
In vitro microbial protein synthesis, ruminal degradation and post‐ruminal digestibility of crude protein of dairy rations containing Quebracho tannin extract
Authors: Castro‐Montoya J. , Westreicher‐Kristen E. , Henke A. , Diaby M. , Susenbeth A. , Dickhoefer U.
Published: April 2017

This study evaluated the effects of Quebracho tannin extract (QTE) on in vitro ruminal fermentation, chemical composition of rumen microbes, ruminal degradation and intestinal digestibility of crude protein (iCPd). Three treatments were tested, the control (basal diet without QTE), the basal diet with 15 g QTE/kg dry matter (DM) and the basal diet with 30 g QTE/kg DM. The basal diet contained (g/kg DM): 339 grass silage, 317 maize silage and 344 concentrate. In vitro gas production kinetic was determined using the Hohenheim gas test (Experiment 1). The Ankom RF technique, a batch system with automatic gas pressure recordings, was used to determine in vitro production of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFA) and ammonia–nitrogen concentration (NH3‐N), as well as nitrogen and purine bases content in liquid‐associated microbes (LAM) and in a residue of undegraded feed and solid‐associated microbes (Feed+SAM) (Experiment 2). Ruminal degradation and iCPd were determined using the nylon bag technique and the mobile nylon bag technique, respectively (Experiment 3). Gas production (Experiment 1), total SCFA and NH3‐N (Experiment 2) decreased with increasing QTE levels. Microbial mass and composition of LAM were not affected by QTE, but total mass of Feed+SAM linearly increased, likely due to decreased substrate degradation with increasing QTE levels. The total amount of N in microbial mass and undegraded feed after the in vitro incubation increased with increasing QTE levels, suggesting a potential greater N flow from the rumen to the duodenum. In contrast to in vivo studies with the same QTE, no effects were detected on ruminal effective degradability and iCPd, when using the nylon bag techniques. Based on the in vitro procedures, QTE increased the supply of N post‐rumen; however, some evidence of a decreased fibre degradation were also observed. Therefore, the benefit of adding QTE to diets of cattle is still questionable.
Reduced fasting periods increase intestinal permeability in chickens
Authors: Gilani S. , Howarth G. S. , Tran C. D. , Barekatain R. , Kitessa S. M. , Forder R. E. A. , Hughes R. J.
Published: April 2017

Fasting of up to 24 hr has been shown to increase intestinal permeability (IP) in chickens. The aim of this study was to determine whether fasting duration of 4.5 and 9 hr increased IP and whether l‐glutamine (a non‐essential amino acid) supplementation before fasting provided some protection of barrier function as shown in other species. Ross 308 male broilers (n = 96) were fed either a control diet or the same diet supplemented with 1% glutamine from d0 to d38 post‐hatch. On d37, the birds were assigned to single‐bird metabolism cages and were fasted for either 0, 4.5, 9 or 19.5 hr. This study design was 2 × 4 factorial with two levels of glutamine and four levels of fasting. Birds in the 0‐hr fasting group had free access to feed. All birds had ad libitum access to water. To measure IP on day 38, following their respective fasting periods, birds were administered two separate oral gavages of fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FITC‐d) followed by lactulose, mannitol and rhamnose (LMR) sugars, 60 min apart. Whole blood was collected from the jugular vein 90 min post‐LMR sugar gavage. FITC‐d and L/M/R ratios were measured by spectrophotometry and high‐performance ionic chromatography respectively. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) endotoxins in plasma of the birds fed the control diet were also measured using chicken‐specific LPS antibody ELISA. Serum FITC‐d and plasma L/M and L/R ratios for 4.5, 9 and 19.5 hr were significantly (p < .05) higher compared to the non‐fasting group. However, IP was not different in the glutamine‐supplemented group (p > .05) compared to the control group. LPS concentrations measured by the ELISA were below the detectable range. We conclude that fasting periods of 4.5 and 9 hr increased IP compared to non‐fasted birds and dietary glutamine supplementation did not ameliorate changes in IP.
Effects of dietary lysine levels on the concentrations of selected nutrient metabolites in blood plasma of late‐stage finishing pigs
Authors: Regmi N. , Wang T. , Crenshaw M. A. , Rude B. J. , Liao S. F.
Published: April 2017

Lysine is the first‐limiting amino acid (AA) in typical swine diets and plays very important roles in promoting growth performance of pigs. This research was conducted to study the effects of dietary lysine on blood plasma concentrations of protein, carbohydrate, and lipid metabolites of pigs. Eighteen crossbred finishing pigs (nine barrows and nine gilts; initial BW 92.3 ± 6.9 kg) were individually penned in an environment controlled barn. Pigs were assigned to three dietary treatments according to a randomized complete block design with gender as block and pig as experimental unit (6 pigs/treatment). Three corn and soybean meal‐based diets were formulated to contain total lysine at 0.43%, 0.71%, and 0.98% (as‐fed basis) for Diets I (lysine deficient), II (lysine adequate), and III (lysine excess) respectively. After 4 weeks on trial, jugular vein blood was collected and plasma was separated. The plasma concentrations of total protein, albumin, urea nitrogen (UN), triglyceride, total cholesterol, and glucose were determined using an ACE Clinical Chemistry System (Alfa Wassermann, Inc., West Caldwell, NJ, USA). Data were analysed using the GLM Procedure with PDIFF (adjust = T) option of SAS. No differences (p > 0.10) were found between barrows and gilts for any of the metabolites measured. While there were no differences (p > 0.10) between pigs fed Diets II and III in plasma concentrations of UN, albumin, and total cholesterol, the concentration of albumin in these pigs was higher (p < .05) than that of pigs fed Diet I, and the concentrations of UN and total cholesterol in these pigs were lower (p < .05) than that of pigs fed Diet I. There were no differences (p > 0.10) among the three dietary treatments in plasma concentrations of total protein, triglycerides, and glucose. These findings indicated that the plasma metabolite profile can be affected by changing dietary lysine content only. Thorough understanding how the plasma metabolite profile is alternated by dietary lysine will facilitate nutrient management for more sustainable swine production.
Exposure to texture of foods for 8‐month‐old infants: Does the size of the pieces matter?
Authors: da Costa Saakje P. , Remijn Lianne , Weenen Hugo , Vereijken Carel , van der Schans Cees
Published: April 2017

This study examined the effect of meals varying in amount, size, and hardness of food pieces on the development of the chewing capabilities of 8‐month‐old infants. The study also examined changes in shivering, gagging, coughing, choking, and their ability to eat from a spoon. In an in‐home setting two groups were given commercially available infant meals and fruits, purees with either less, smaller and softer or more, larger and harder pieces. Both groups were given these foods for 4 weeks and were monitored several times during this period. After the 4‐week exposure period infants in both groups were given the same five test foods. Structured questionnaires with questions on eating behavior and the child's development were conducted 6 times in the 4 to 12‐month period and video analyses of feedings were conducted 4 times between 8 and 9 months. After the 4‐week exposure period, the group that had been exposed to the foods with more, larger and harder pieces showed a significantly higher rating for chewing a piece of carrot and potato for the first time, but not for a piece of banana nor for mashed foods. Shivering, gagging, coughing, choking, and ability to eat from a spoon were not different between the two groups. These results contribute to the insight that exposure to texture is important for young children to learn how to handle texture.

Practical applications

(a) The study shows the feasibility of testing the effects of texture interventions on chewing capability and oral responses such as gagging, coughing, and choking in infants. (b) The study contributes to the insight that exposure to food texture to learn how to handle texture is important for infants and showed that exposing children to a higher amount of larger pieces improves their chewing capability for a piece of carrot and potato, at least immediately after the intervention.
“There is No Need for Translation: She Understands”: Teachers’ Mediation Strategies in a Bilingual Preschool Classroom
Authors: Schwartz Mila , Gorbatt Naomi
Published: April 2017

In this study, we explored how major theoretical principles and concepts in the mediation strategies of Vygotsky's sociocultural theory are realized in an Arabic−Hebrew preschool in Israel. The aim of this study was to examine how teachers encourage children to use their second language (L2) during teacher−child conversations. In particular, as a response to relatively low motivation for L2 (Arabic) use, the teachers’ mediation was intended to encourage children to use Arabic.The study participants were one Hebrew model teacher, one Arabic model teacher, and children using either Hebrew or Arabic as their first language (L1). We applied a thematic analysis as the methodological framework. Data were collected during one academic year, including video recordings of the teacher−child conversations, and were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The following content categories were extracted: explicit request for use of the L2, managing the children's demand for direct translation, the teacher as a model for the L2 learner, and contributions from language experts. The observation showed that the teachers applied diverse mediation strategies, such as scaffolding, identification of the child's zone of proximal development, and modeling. Avoidance of direct translation was intended to activate children's zone of proximal development and to boost their involvement in L2 learning.
Moving Beyond the Bar Plot and the Line Graph to Create Informative and Attractive Graphics1
Authors: Larson–Hall Jenifer
Published: April 2017

Graphics are often mistaken for a mere frill in the methodological arsenal of data analysis when in fact they can be one of the simplest and at the same time most powerful methods of communicating statistical information (Tufte, ). The first section of the article argues for the statistical necessity of graphs, echoing and amplifying similar calls from Hudson () and Larson–Hall & Plonsky (2015). The second section presents a historical survey of graphical use over the entire history of language acquisition journals, representing 192 years of journal publishing. This shows that a consensus for using certain types of graphics, which lack data credibility, has developed in the applied linguistics field, namely the bar plot and the line graph. The final section of the article is devoted to presenting various types of graphic alternatives to these two consensus graphics. Suggested graphics are data accountable and present all of the data, as well as a summary structure; such graphics include the scatterplot, beeswarm, or pirate plot. Such graphics attract readers, help researchers improve the way they understand and analyze their data, and build credibility in numerical statistical analyses and the conclusions that are drawn.
Sporadic versus syndromic keratocysts—Can we predict treatment outcome? A review of 102 cysts
Authors: Noy D , Rachmiel A , Zar K , Emodi O , Nagler RM
Published: April 2017

Objectives

Keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT) demonstrates variable growth mechanisms and biologic behavior, partly due to origin and histology. We looked for the most contributing factors in predicting outcome of treatment.

Subjects and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 118 medical files of patients diagnosed with KCOT (by tissue biopsy before surgical treatment) with/without nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS) from 1995 to 2015. Data were recorded and analyzed statistically to determine the treatment–outcome correlation. KCOTs in NBCCS patients were termed “syndromic” and random KCOTs termed “sporadic.”

Results

Of 102 cysts, 32 were diagnosed with NBCCS. Sporadic KCOTs were significantly larger upon diagnosis (p < .017). Factors most indicative of postsurgical complications are older age (p < .011), upper jaw location, and size of lesion ≥9.5 cm². Sporadic KCOTs significantly increased the chances of complications approximately threefold (p < .043). Higher recurrence rate was significant in syndromic cysts (47%) compared to sporadic cysts (20%) (p < .009). Recurrence time was 3 years on average.

Conclusions

Postsurgical complications may be expected in: older patients, upper jaw location, extensive lesions, and sporadic KCOT. Most KCOT recurrence is diagnosed 3 years from treatment.
You're Probably Not Really a Speciesist
Authors: Timmerman Travis
Published: April 2017

I defend the bold claim that self‐described speciesists are not really speciesists. Of course, I do not deny that self‐described speciesists would assent to generic speciesist claims (e.g. Humans matter more than animals). The conclusion I draw is more nuanced. My claim is that such generic speciesist beliefs are inconsistent with other, more deeply held, beliefs of self‐described speciesists. Crucially, once these inconsistencies are made apparent, speciesists will reject the generic speciesist beliefs because they are absurd by the speciesists' own lights.
Effectiveness and Safety of Intrathecal Ziconotide: Interim Analysis of the Patient Registry of Intrathecal Ziconotide Management (PRIZM)
Authors: Deer Timothy , Rauck Richard L. , Kim Philip , Saulino Michael F. , Wallace Mark , Grigsby Eric J. , Huang I‐Zu , Mori Fannie , Vanhove Geertrui F. , McDowell Gladstone C.
Published: April 2017

Background

The Patient Registry of Intrathecal Ziconotide Management (PRIZM) evaluated long‐term effectiveness, safety, and tolerability of intrathecal ziconotide treatment in clinical practice.

Methods

Patient Registry of Intrathecal Ziconotide Management was an open‐label, long‐term, multicenter, observational study of adult patients with severe chronic pain. This interim analysis (data through July 10, 2015) of ziconotide as the first vs. not first intrathecal agent in pump included change from baseline in the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS; primary efficacy measure) and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) scores.

Results

Enrollment closed at 93 patients; data collection was ongoing at the time of this interim analysis. Fifty‐one patients (54.8%) received ziconotide as the first agent in pump (FIP+), whereas 42 (45.2%) did not (FIP−). Mean (SD) baseline NPRS scores were 7.4 (1.9) and 7.9 (1.6) in FIP+ and FIP− patients, respectively. Mean (SEM) percentage changes in NPRS scores were −29.4% (5.5%) in FIP+ patients (n = 26) and +6.4% (7.7%) in FIP− patients (n = 17) at month 6 and −34.4% (9.1%) in FIP+ patients (n = 14) and −3.4% (10.2%) in FIP− patients (n = 9) at month 12. Improvement from baseline, measured by PGIC score, was reported in 69.2% of FIP+ (n = 26) and 35.7% of FIP− (n = 14) patients at month 6 and 85.7% of FIP+ (n = 7) and 71.4% of FIP− (n = 7) patients at month 12. The most common adverse events (≥ 10% of patients overall as of the data cut) were nausea (19.6% vs. 7.1% of FIP+ vs. FIP− patients, respectively), confusional state (9.8% vs. 11.9%), and dizziness (13.7% vs. 7.1%).

Conclusions

Greater improvements in efficacy outcomes were observed when ziconotide was initiated as first‐line intrathecal therapy vs. not first intrathecal agent in pump. The adverse event profile was consistent with the ziconotide prescribing information.
The jasmonic acid‐signalling and abscisic acid‐signalling pathways cross talk during one, but not repeated, dehydration stress: a non‐specific ‘panicky’ or a meaningful response?
Authors: Avramova Zoya
Published: April 2017

Experiencing diverse and recurring biotic and abiotic stresses throughout life, plants have evolved mechanisms to respond, survive and, eventually, adapt to changing habitats. The initial response to drought involves a large number of genes that are involved also in response to other stresses. According to current models, this initial response is non‐specific, becoming stress‐specific only at later time points. The question, then, is whether non‐specific activation of various stress‐signalling systems leading to the expression of numerous stress‐regulated genes is a false‐alarm (panicky) response or whether it has biologically relevant consequences for the plant. Here, it is argued that the initial activation of genes associated other stresses reflects an important event during which stress‐specific mechanisms are generated to prevent subsequent activation of non‐drought signalling pathways. How plants discriminate between a first and a repeated dehydration stress and how repression of non‐drought specific genes is achieved will be discussed on the example of jasmonic acid‐associated Arabidopsis genes activated by a first, but not subsequent, dehydration stresses. Revealing how expression of various biotic/abiotic stress responding genes is prevented under recurring drought spells may be critical for our understanding of how plants respond to dynamically changing environments.
Validation of Ozone Monitoring Instrument UV Satellite Data Using Spectral and Broadband Surface Based Measurements at a Queensland Site
Authors: A Jebar Mustapha A. , Parisi Alfio V. , Downs Nathan J. , Turner Joanna F.
Published: April 2017

This research reconstructed and validated the broadband UVA irradiances derived from discrete spectral irradiance data retrieved from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) satellite from 1 January to 31 December 2009. OMI data at solar noon were compared to ground‐based spectral irradiances at Toowoomba (27°36′ S 151°55′ E), Australia, at 310, 324 and 380 nm for both cloud‐free and all sky conditions. There was a strong relationship between the ground‐based UV spectroradiometer data and satellite‐based measurements with an R2 of 0.89 or better in each waveband for cloud‐free days. The data show an overestimate of the satellite‐derived spectral irradiances compared to the ground‐based data. The models developed for the subtropical site data account for this overestimation and are essential for any data correlation between satellite‐ and ground‐based measurements. Additionally, this research has compared solar noon broadband UVA irradiances evaluated with a model and the discrete satellite spectral irradiances for the solar noon values of cloud‐free days to those measured with a ground‐based UVA radiometer. An R2 of 0.86 was obtained confirming that for cloud‐free days the broadband UVA can be evaluated from the OMI satellite spectral irradiances.
Commentary: Let's Look Again
Authors: Kaufman Herbert
Published: April 2017

Related Content: Fleischman (PAR September/October 2017)

Related Content: Iverson (PAR September/October 2017)
Tspan33 is Expressed in Transitional and Memory B Cells, but is not Responsible for High ADAM10 Expression
Authors: Pérez‐Martínez C. A. , Maravillas‐Montero J. L. , Meza‐Herrera I. , Vences‐Catalán F. , Zlotnik A. , Santos‐Argumedo L.
Published: April 2017

Tetraspanins are a family of transmembrane proteins that form membrane microdomains. They play important roles in migration, adhesion and other cellular processes. TspanC8, a subfamily of tetraspanins, was found to associate and promote ADAM10 trafficking and cell surface localization. One of its members, Tspan33, is expressed in activated B cells. Using RT‐PCR and flow cytometry, we analysed the pattern of expression of Tspan33 in B cells from healthy donors. We found Tspan33 expression in early and late stages of B cell development. However, Tspan33 expression did not correlate with ADAM10 surface expression. We also found expression of Tspan33 early in the activation process. Given its predominant expression in activated B cells and in several lymphomas, but not in naive B cells, we hypothesize that Tspan33 could be a potential target for therapeutic purposes.
Exposure–response relationship of neighbourhood sanitation and children's diarrhoea
Authors: Jung Youngmee Tiffany , Lou Wendy , Cheng Yu‐Ling
Published: April 2017

Objectives

To assess the association of neighbourhood sanitation coverage with under‐five children's diarrhoeal morbidity and to evaluate its exposure–response relationship.

Methods

We used the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) of 29 developing countries in sub‐Saharan Africa and South Asia, conducted between 2010 and 2014. The primary outcome was two‐week incidence of diarrhoea in children under 5 years of age (N = 269014). We conducted three‐level logistic regression analyses and applied cubic splines to assess the trend between neighbourhood‐level coverage of improved household sanitation and diarrhoeal morbidity.

Results

A significant association between neighbourhood‐level coverage of improved household sanitation and diarrhoeal morbidity (OR [95% CI] = 0.68 [0.62–0.76]) was found. Exposure‐relationship analyses results showed improved sanitation coverage threshold at 0.6. We found marginal degree of association (OR [95% CI] = 0.82 [0.77–0.87]) below the threshold, which, beyond the threshold, sharply increased to OR of 0.44 (95% CI: 0.29–0.67) at sanitation coverage of 1 (i.e. neighbourhood‐wide use of improved household sanitation). Similar exposure–response trends were identified for urban and rural subgroups.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that neighbourhood sanitation plays a key role in reducing diarrhoeal diseases and that increase in sanitation coverage may only have minimal impact on diarrhoeal illness, unless sufficiently high coverage is achieved.
Timing of organic carbon release from mountain pine beetle impacted ponderosa pine forests in South Dakota
Authors: Vik Erik S. , Sieverding Heidi L. , Punsal Jesse J. , Kenner Scott J. , Kunza Lisa A. , Stone James J.
Published: April 2017

The decay of mountain pine beetle (MPB) (Dendroctonus ponderosae) affected ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) forests has increased organic carbon (OC) loading within the Rapid Creek watershed in the Black Hills of South Dakota, with total OC (TOC) concentrations up to 6.2 mg L−1 observed in 2015. The impacts of large‐scale tree mortality on water quality were delayed. OC concentrations in the watershed correlated with recent MPB impact stage progression. Regional ponderosa pine forests that were 3 and 6 years after MPB infection (grey and snagfall phases) exhibited increased OC loading within the Rapid Creek watershed. A better understanding of regional watershed response patterns for MPB tree mortality may assist with mitigating ancillary water quality impacts.
Frailty as a Predictor of Future Fracture in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Chen Kuo‐Wei , Chang Shu‐Fang , Lin Pei‐Ling
Published: April 2017

Background

Studies have identified frailty as an effective predictor of fracture; however, the correlation between frailty and fracture differs between various stages of frailty.

Objectives

The main aim is to determine the correlation between various stages of frailty and fracture risk; a secondary purpose is to determine the correlation between subgroups (e.g., females, females with a hip fracture, or aged 65 years or older) within the stages of frailty and fracture risk. Finally, effect of frailty criteria on the association between stages of frailty and fracture risk was tested.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis. The inclusion criteria were as follows: (a) a prospective study design; (b) subjects aged 55 years or older; (c) a division into robust, prefrail, and frail groups; and (d) reported confidence intervals of hazard ratio. Two investigators independently assessed quality and discussed their findings to reach consensus. The quality of the literature was assessed and the level of evidence was also determined.

Results

In total, five studies included 103,783 older people and recorded 2,960 fractures. The results identified that the risk of fracture in the frail people was higher than that in both the robust people (summary HR: 1.67; 95% CI [1.46–1.91]) and prefrail people (summary HR: 1.28; 95% CI [1.16–1.40], and that the risk of fracture in the prefrail people was higher than that in the robust people (summary HR: 1.30; 95% CI [1.20–1.41]). A subgroup analysis revealed that among female adults, older females with hip fracture, or those aged 65 years or more, those who were categorized as frail showed the highest fracture risk, followed by those who were categorized as prefrail.

Linking Evidence to Action

Professional nurses caring for frail or prefrail people should actively develop fracture prevention measures to reduce the risk of death caused by fractures.