bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role reflections of police reservists: a study of volunteer reserve officers in Malaysia
Authors: Cheah Phaik Kin , Unnithan N. Prabha , Suppiah Suresh
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the work roles of the Royal Malaysia Police Volunteer Reserve officers.

Design/methodology/approach

A grounded theory approach was utilized for the generation and analysis of the data. Data were collected through interviews, observations and follow-ups. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 male and female volunteer reserve officers and 5 regular police officers aged between 24 and 58 years of mixed socioeconomic backgrounds, ethnicities and ranking in the Royal Malaysia Police force. Two civilian respondents (spouses of the Police Volunteer Reserve officers) were also interviewed for this study for the purpose of theory sampling.

Findings

The data were analyzed qualitatively resulting in a model of Royal Malaysia Police Volunteer Reserve officer roles consisting of four orientations.

Research limitations/implications

Study outcomes are discussed theoretically and administratively. The four role orientations identified will assist researchers studying police reserve volunteerism.

Practical implications

Study outcomes allow administrators to utilize and deploy police reservists in consonance with the four role orientations identified.

Social implications

This study provides insight into how police reservists conceive of and execute their roles as they negotiate them in relation to the regular police officers they work with and the public from which they are drawn.

Originality/value

This is the first study of police volunteerism in Malaysia.
Dexamethasone exacerbates cisplatin‐induced muscle atrophy
Authors: Sakai Hiroyasu , Kimura Minami , Tsukimura Yuka , Yabe Saori , Isa Yosuke , Kai Yuki , Sato Fumiaki , Kon Risako , Ikarashi Nobutomo , Narita Minoru , Chiba Yoshihiko , Kamei Junzo
Published: August 2018

Dexamethasone for antiemetic therapy is typically administered with anticancer drugs such as cisplatin. We previously reported that cisplatin upregulates the muscle‐specific E3 ubiquitin ligase genes, namely muscle ring‐finger protein 1 (MuRF1) and atrophy gene‐1 (atrogin‐1), and promotes muscle atrophy in mice. It is well known that dexamethasone causes upregulation of MuRF1 and Atrogin‐1 expression in skeletal muscles. Although it is speculated that a combination of dexamethasone and cisplatin worsens muscle atrophy, there are no reports based on research. We thereby investigated the effects of cisplatin and dexamethasone, alone or in combination, on the expression of MuRF1 and Atrogin‐1 in murine skeletal muscles and C2C12 myotubes. Mice were intraperitoneally injected with cisplatin or the vehicle control once daily for 4 days. Dexamethasone or the vehicle control was subcutaneously administered 30 minutes prior to the administration of cisplatin. Dexamethasone enhanced MuRF1 and Atrogin‐1 gene expression upregulated by cisplatin in murine quadriceps muscles and C2C12 myotubes. Cisplatin‐caused upregulation of myostatin and downregulation of IGF‐1 gene expression were also enhanced by co‐administration of dexamethasone in murine quadriceps muscles and C2C12 myotubes. This study shows that the combination treatment of cisplatin and dexamethasone exacerbated muscle atrophy in mice. Therefore, this treatment regimen might exacerbate muscle atrophy in cancer patients.
Aeromonas veronii and aerolysin are important for the pathogenesis of motile aeromonad septicemia in cyprinid fish
Authors: Ran Chao , Qin Chubin , Xie Mingxu , Zhang Jinxiong , Li Jie , Xie Yadong , Wang Yibing , Li Shuning , Liu Lihui , Fu Xiaozhe , Lin Qiang , Li Ningqiu , Liles Mark R. , Zhou Zhigang
Published: August 2018

Aeromonas species are ubiquitous inhabitants of freshwater environments, and are responsible for fish motile aeromonad septicemia (MAS). A. hydrophila is implicated as the primary etiologic agent of MAS. Here, we analysed MAS epidemiological data for cyprinid fish in southern China, and found that A. veronii infections dominated. Consistent with this observation, A. veronii isolates were generally more virulent than A. hydrophila isolates when infecting germ‐free zebrafish larvae via continuous immersion challenge. Through in vivo screening of the transposon library of the A. veronii strain Hm091, aerolysin was identified as the key virulence factor. Further results indicated that A. veronii Hm091 aerolysin disrupts the intestinal barrier of zebrafish, enabling systematic invasion by not only A. veronii Hm091 in a mono‐infection, but also A. hydrophila NJ‐1 in a mixed infection. Moreover, the differences in aerolysin expression and activity were the major contributor to the observed differences between the A. veronii and A. hydrophila strains regarding invasion efficacy via intestine. Together, our results provide new insights into the aetiology and pathogenesis of Aeromonas infections, and highlight the importance of A. veronii‐targeted treatments in future efforts against MAS.
A Riposte to Clive Holmes, ‘The Trial and Execution of Charles I’
Authors: KELSEY SEAN
Published: August 2018

In a number of articles and essays, I have questioned whether regicide was the intended outcome of the trial of Charles I. Although initially well received, my scholarship has since come in for criticism from Clive Holmes. This article is one part of my response. It shows that Holmes has misunderstood my arguments about what the trial of Charles I was intended to achieve and has focused on a handful of sources which are peripheral to my case. Meanwhile, the thesis Holmes offers in place of mine appears evidentially, rhetorically and even logically flawed. It is largely reliant on unexamined articles of faith, dependent in part on literary legerdemain, and oddly reluctant to address what actually happened during the king's trial. Not only has Holmes failed to reinstate the orthodoxy that regicide was the trial's inevitable conclusion: he has underlined that orthodoxy's redundancy.
Brexit and Fisheries: A Question of Conflicting Expectations
Authors: Gallic Bertrand Le , Mardle Simon , Metz Sébastien
Published: August 2018

The UK fishing sector has been under the spotlight since the beginning of the Brexit debate. Political commentators claimed that up to 90 per cent of British fishers supported Brexit as they considered the UK was disadvantaged compared to other EU Member States. Their main grudge is about the equal access that all Member States have had to all EU waters – with the exception of territorial waters, up to 12 nautical miles from the coast – since the formal inception of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) in 1983. Combined with what they perceive to be an unbalanced allocation of fishing quotas, this legal framework is thought by the UK fishing industry to be the main reason for the poor management of EU fisheries, which could be terminated following Brexit thus regaining the UK's status as an independent coastal state. The key issue addressed in this article is the possible reallocation of fishing opportunities within British waters. It outlines the current allocation system and summarises the views of major stakeholders. This is complex as historical fishing rights may or may not be acknowledged but it remains that the UK fishing industry needs access to EU markets and EU labour to bring the fish to value.
Brexit's Agri‐trade Impacts on the Netherlands
Authors: van Berkum Siemen , Jongeneel Roel , van Leeuwen Myrna
Published: August 2018

The UK is an important market for the Dutch agri‐food sector, 10 per cent of all Dutch agricultural exports find their way to the UK. In this article the effects of two possible post‐Brexit trade scenarios on Dutch agricultural trade are quantified. Model simulations indicate that Dutch exports to the UK and the rest of the world will be affected only marginally under a Free Trade Agreement between the EU and the UK. A WTO scenario will have more, yet still relatively modest, impact on Dutch exports as a result of Dutch price competitiveness in the UK market. The agricultural production value in the Netherlands will decline by around 2 per cent, mainly because of declining prices that are the result of price pressure in the EU market as a consequence of Brexit‐related trade distortions. Possible impacts of non‐tariff measures on trade costs are not included in the quantification. However, the UK government could request quality and/or food safety conditions on imports that are different from the current EU trade conditions. Whether the UK will do so is yet unknown, and hence provides an enormous uncertainty to businesses engaged in trade with the UK.
Co‐occurrence network analysis reveals thermodynamics‐driven microbial interactions in methanogenic bioreactors
Authors: Narihiro Takashi , Nobu Masaru K. , Bocher Ben T. W. , Mei Ran , Liu Wen‐Tso
Published: August 2018

Methanogenic bioreactors have been applied to treat purified terephthalic acid (PTA) wastewater containing complex aromatic compounds, such as terephthalic acid, para‐toluic acid and benzoic acid. This study characterized the interaction of microbial populations in 42 samples obtained from 10 PTA‐degrading methanogenic bioreactors. Approximately, 54 dominant populations (11 methanogens, 8 syntrophs and 35 functionally unknown clades) that represented 73.9% of total 16S rRNA gene iTag sequence reads were identified. Co‐occurrence analysis based on the abundance of dominant OTUs showed two non‐overlapping networks centred around aromatic compound‐ (group AR: Syntrophorhabdaceae, Syntrophus and Pelotomaculum) and fatty acid‐ (group FA: Smithella and Syntrophobacter) degrading syntrophs. Group AR syntrophs have no direct correlation with hydrogenotrophic methanogens, while those from group FA do. As degradation of aromatic compounds has a wider thermodynamic window than fatty acids, Group AR syntrophs may be less influenced by fluctuations in hydrogenotrophic methanogen abundance or may non‐specifically interact with diverse methanogens. In both groups, network analysis reveals full‐scale‐ and lab‐scale‐specific uncultivated taxa that may mediate interactions between syntrophs and methanogens, suggesting that those uncultivated taxa may support the degradation of aromatic compounds through uncharted ecophysiological traits. These observations suggest that organisms from multiple niches orchestrate their metabolic capacity in multiple interaction networks to effectively degrade PTA wastewater.
Paris Needs Geneva, and Vice Versa
Authors: Chu C. Y. Cyrus , Lee Po‐Ching
Published: August 2018

This paper proposes and seeks to explain how the launching of a new negotiation on trade in carbon‐reduction‐related goods and services in Geneva could help to restore the effective market penetration of the Paris Agreement mechanisms, and how the subsequent implementation of the Paris Agreement can revitalize the so‐called ‘paralyzed WTO‘ at Geneva. It suggests that new negotiations be dedicated to the liberalization of trade in goods that relate closely to greenhouse‐gas reduction. Drawing on experiences from the stalled Environmental Goods Agreement (EGA) negotiations, this narrowing of the scope of the talks might help establish a clear theme, thus avoiding potential conflicts of interest among the negotiating parties. Moreover, if the market penetration of green technologies is to be advanced effectively, negotiations must cover trade in related services (e.g. systems engineering) as well. Inclusion of services can also mitigate the ‘critical mass’ concerns inherent in the goods‐only context. Improving market access to government procurements and facilitating technology transfer in carbon‐reduction sectors will help to spread green technologies globally, and could be the topic of the new framework. In the end, the paper envisages a scenario of high participation and offers a possible approach to the initiation of new talks.
Research on the use of financial statement information for forecasting profitability
Authors: Yohn Teri Lombardi
Published: August 2018

Research on the use of financial statement information for forecasting profitability has two objectives: (i) to generate improved forecasts of profitability and accurate estimates of firm value; and (ii) to identify market inefficiencies with respect to financial statement information. For these areas of research, this article describes the evolution, provides examples and shares implications of the research. It also discusses opportunities for future research. The article highlights that financial statement analysis research has slowly evolved and has received limited attention from academics. The article argues that there are vast opportunities for impactful research on fundamental analysis and market inefficiencies.
Establishing content validity and fidelity of a novel paediatric intussusception air enema reduction simulator
Authors: Nataraja Ramesh M. , Khoo Stephanie , Ditchfield Michael , Webb Nathalie R.
Published: August 2018

Background

Intussusception is a common, potentially life‐threatening paediatric condition. Non‐operative treatment with an air enema has been established as the clinical gold standard. There is no validated model for the training of this procedure. Our aim was to produce a novel air enema reduction simulator and validate its use as a training tool.

Methods

A low‐cost paediatric intussusception air enema simulator was created. It was designed to include essential key clinical procedural steps. Participants included both procedural experts and novices from the Departments of Paediatric Radiology and Surgery. The simulator was assessed for face and content validity and its physical, conceptual and experiential fidelity by a structured questionnaire using a 5‐point Likert's scale. Statistical analysis included a t‐test, and a P‐value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Twenty‐four clinicians completed the simulation activity (expert: 13 and novices: 11). All experts had performed a minimum of 40 clinical procedures, and 46% had performed >50 procedures. All scores were favourable in all domains for face and content validity: 3.5 (physical appearance), 3.3 (insertion of the tube and taping), 3.1 (holding of the buttocks) and 3.5 (performing the air enema). The simulator also scored highly with fidelity assessment; visual 3.5, conceptual 3.4. There was no difference in procedural confidence with experts (3.8 versus 3.6, P = 0.28), but there was for novices (1.0 versus 2.9, P = 0.0002).

Conclusions

This low‐cost air enema reduction simulator for intussusception has an excellent educational potential for use in a training program in a tertiary centre, as well as, resource‐constrained environments.
Register‐based study showed that the age when children were prescribed antibiotic tablets and capsules instead of liquids increased from 2004 to 2016
Authors: Bergene E H , Nordeng H , Rø T B , Steinsbekk A
Published: August 2018

Aim

We investigated the age when the prescriptions of oral antibiotic formulations for children from birth to 12 years of age changed from being mostly liquid to mostly solid and the associations between solid formulations and child, prescriber and medication characteristics.

Methods

This register‐based study comprised data from the Norwegian Prescription Database on oral antibiotics dispensed between 2004 and 2016 when both solid and liquid dosage forms were available in appropriate doses.

Results

Just over 1.2 million prescriptions were studied, and the age when children were prescribed oral solid antibiotics gradually increased. The mean age of conversion from liquids to solid formulations was 6.9 years and ranged from 5.7 years in 2004/2005 to 7.9 years in 2015/2016. Patient factors associated with solid dosage forms were the children's increasing age and male gender. Practitioner factors were the prescribers’ increasing age, male gender, being a general practitioner and issuing fewer than 23 paediatric antibiotic prescriptions per year. Medication factors were bad‐tasting liquids and the size and shape of solid dosage forms.

Conclusion

The age when children were prescribed antibiotic tablets and capsules increased from 2004 to 2016. The medicine characteristics were quite consistent, so this was probably caused by a shift in formulation preferences.
Negative feedback regulation of vasocontraction by potassium channels in 10‐ to 15‐day‐old rats: Dominating role of Kv7 channels
Authors: Shvetsova Anastasia A. , Gaynullina Dina K. , Tarasova Olga S. , Schubert Rudolf
Published: August 2018

Aim

Potassium channels are key regulators of smooth muscle membrane potential and arterial tone. However, the roles of potassium channels in vascular tone regulation in the systemic circulation during early postnatal development are poorly understood. Therefore, this study tested the hypothesis that the negative feedback regulation of vasocontraction by potassium channels changes during maturation.

Methods

Experiments were performed on endothelium‐denuded saphenous arteries from 10‐ to 15‐day‐old and 2‐ to 3‐month‐old male rats. Isometric force and membrane potential were recorded using wire myography and the sharp microelectrode technique respectively; mRNA and protein contents were determined by qPCR and Western blotting.

Results

The effects of Kv1, Kir and Kv7 channel blockers (DPO‐1, BaCl2, XE991) on methoxamine‐induced contraction were larger in arteries of 10‐ to 15‐day‐old compared to 2‐ to 3‐month‐old animals. In contrast, the BKCa channel blocker iberiotoxin had a stronger influence in 2‐ to 3‐ month‐old rats. The effects of KATP and Kv2 channel blockers (glibenclamide, stromatoxin) were not pronounced at both ages. The larger influence of Kv7 and Kir channel blockade on arterial contraction in 10‐ to 15‐day‐old rats was associated with more prominent smooth muscle depolarization. The developmental alterations in potassium channel functioning were generally consistent with their mRNA and protein expression levels in arterial smooth muscle.

Conclusion

The negative feedback regulation of vasocontraction by potassium channels varies during maturation depending on the channel type. A dominating contribution of Kv7 channels to the regulation of basal tone and agonist‐induced contraction was observed in arteries of 10‐ to 15‐day‐old animals.
Political legitimacy and research ethics
Authors: Smith Maxwell J. , Weinstock Daniel
Published: August 2018

In democratic theory, “legitimacy” refers to the set of conditions that must be in place in order for the claims to authority of somebody to be deemed appropriate, and for their claims to compliance to be warranted. Though criteria of legitimacy have been elaborated in the context of democratic states, there is no reason for them not to be drawn up, with appropriate amendments, for other kinds of authority structures. This paper examines the claims to authority made over researchers by international bodies governing research ethics, who exercise their authority by the research ethics guidelines they produce (including recent revisions to the Declaration of Helsinki and CIOMS Guidelines). We argue that discussions of such bodies and sets of guidelines often elide questions of justification and questions of legitimacy, and that the grounds that might allow us to mount a strong case for the latter are at present sorely underdeveloped.
Speech and language characteristics in individuals with nonsyndromic submucous cleft palate—A systematic review
Authors: Boyce Jessica O. , Kilpatrick Nicky , Morgan Angela T.
Published: August 2018

Background

Up to 80% of individuals with unrepaired submucous cleft palate (SMCP) experience speech difficulties secondary to velopharyngeal insufficiency. Language delays are reported in the broader cleft lip and/or palate population, suggesting that individuals with SMCP may also be at risk. However, contemporary understanding of this population remains limited as there has been no systematic examination of the literature. This review aims to systematically review and document the speech and language characteristics of individuals with nonsyndromic SMCP and, in addition, to identify factors reported to impact speech and language outcomes.

Method

This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. Five databases were comprehensively searched using keywords and indexed headings. Included studies had to report speech or language outcomes of individuals with nonsyndromic SMCP. Risk of bias and methodological design quality were examined using tools from the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network. Relevant data were extracted for analysis.

Results

Eighteen studies met inclusion criteria, yielding 598 participants. Study results showed that individuals with unrepaired nonsyndromic SMCP may have speech difficulties secondary to velopharyngeal insufficiency including increased nasal resonance and palatalized or glottal articulation. Lower age at primary surgical repair led to better postsurgical speech outcomes. There is a paucity of literature outlining motor or phonological aspects of speech and receptive or expressive language abilities of this population.

Conclusion

Individuals with nonsyndromic SMCP present with speech difficulties similar to those experienced by individuals with overt cleft palate. Health care professionals should be aware of possible presenting symptoms and consider early SMCP diagnoses where appropriate. Further research is needed to specify the broader communication profile in this population.
DPP‐4 inhibitors promote proliferation and migration of rat brain microvascular endothelial cells under hypoxic/high‐glucose conditions, potentially through the SIRT1/HIF‐1/VEGF pathway
Authors: Mi Dong‐Hua , Fang Hong‐Juan , Zheng Guang‐Hui , Liang Xian‐Hong , Ding Ya‐Rong , Liu Xin , Liu Li‐Ping
Published: August 2018

Background

Vascular disease in diabetes, for example, stroke, presents a significant public health burden. Recently, the dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP‐4) inhibitor linagliptin has been found to counteract stroke among diabetic patients, showing great promise in drug repurposing and indication expansion. However, the molecular basis of this protection mechanism remains unknown.

Methods

The expression and localization of DPP‐4 in rat brain microvascular endothelial cells (rBMVECs) were assessed with immunofluorescent staining and Western blotting. The effects of DPP‐4 inhibitors on cell proliferation and migration of rBMVECs were determined using MTT and transwell assays, separately. The influence of DPP‐4 inhibition on the expression of molecular markers (eg, VEGF, eNOS, HIF‐1α. SIRT1) was examined at both mRNA and protein levels with qRT‐PCR and Western blotting, individually.

Results

DPP‐4 inhibitors (40 nmol/L linagliptin, 30 μmol/L berberine) offer protection from hypoxia/high glucose induced impairments in the proliferation and migration of rBMVECs. Treatment with DPP‐4 inhibitors counteracted the attenuating effects of hypoxic/high‐glucose conditions on the expression of VEGF, eNOS, HIF‐1α, and SIRT1, which can be completely eliminated by the inhibition of SIRT1 with 1 mmol/L nicotinamide.

Conclusions

The protection of rBMVECs from hypoxia/high‐glucose induced impairment by DPP‐4 inhibitors may be mediated by the SIRT1/HIF‐1α/VEGF pathway.
Commune Kabuki: Development and Productivity Growth under Maoist China's Rural Collectives
Authors: Eisenman Joshua
Published: August 2018

The key question for a developing country with a fast‐growing population is how to increase savings rates and make productive investments that take advantage of high returns to capital. This study demonstrates that after the disastrous Great Leap Forward (1958–1961), China's commune system administered a nationwide agricultural modernization programme that was able to deliver continuous robust increases in agricultural productivity throughout the 1970s. Through the extraction of household savings primarily via the workpoint remuneration system, China's communes impoverished the local populace while funding investments that increased agricultural production. The workpoint remuneration system constituted a ‘kabuki theatre’ that used countless meetings about job allocations, work evaluations, and the exchange of points for cash or grain to draw members’ attention away from the extraction of their savings and towards the size of their own portion relative to other workers. China's research and extension system, which was nested into the commune and its sub‐units, prioritized locally appropriate capital investments and technical innovations that were both labour‐ and land‐saving. These two systems worked together to extract an increasing percentage of household savings and underwrite investments in productive capital and technology that produced a decade of rapid increases in food output.
Management of patients with diabetes and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: An international comparison
Authors: Arnold Suzanne V. , Yap Jonathan , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Tang Fengming , Tay Wan T. , Teng Tiew H.K. , McGuire Darren K. , Januzzi James L. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Masoudi Frederick A. , Kosiborod Mikhail
Published: August 2018

Aims

To compare the management of patients with diabetes and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in the United States and Asia to understand variations in treatment patterns across different healthcare systems.

Materials and methods

Our cohort included patients with diabetes and HFrEF (ejection fraction <40%) from a US‐based registry of adults with diabetes (2013‐2016, electronic health records) and a multi‐national Asian registry of adults with heart failure (2010‐2016, prospective registry). Asian countries were categorized as high income (HI) or low income (LI), according to the United Nations classification. Rates of use of guideline‐directed medical therapies (determined through review of active medication lists) were compared across regions.

Results

Patients with diabetes and HFrEF in the United States (n = 28 877) were older, had higher body mass indices, and were more likely to have coronary disease than those in Asia (n = 2235). Compared with US patients, the use of guideline‐directed medical therapy for HFrEF was lower in patients in LI Asian countries (angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers: patients in the United States, 77% vs. patients in HI Asian countries, 76% vs patients in LI Asian countries, 69%; β‐blockers: patients in the United States, 91% vs. patients in HI Asian countries, 87% vs. patients in LI Asian countries, 69%; P < 0.001 for both). Insulin was used more commonly in the United States (44% vs. 24% vs. 25%, respectively; P < 0.001), whereas sulphonylureas were more often prescribed in Asian countries (42% vs. 52% vs. 54%; respectively, P < 0.001). Thiazolidinediones were prescribed in 6% of US patients compared with <1% of patients in Asia. The use of newer diabetes medications was <5% in all.

Conclusion

In both the United States and Asia, opportunities for improvement in the use of evidence‐based therapies exist for patients with both diabetes and HFrEF. Effective tools to guide medication choices for these complex, high‐risk patients could have substantial impact on quality and outcomes.
Unexplained forelimb lameness possibly associated with radiculopathy
Authors: Dyson S. J.
Published: August 2018

There are limited descriptions of forelimb lameness that is not improved by diagnostic analgesia. The objectives of this retrospective study were to describe the clinical features, response to diagnostic analgesia and imaging findings in such horses (n = 25), to apply a ridden horse ethogram to video recordings of a subset of horses (n = 13) and to document post‐mortem findings (n = 3). Clinical records from 2006 to 2016 were reviewed, and data concerning signalment, history, lame limb(s), lameness characteristics, response to diagnostic analgesia and diagnostic imaging were recorded. A ridden horse ethogram was applied to 13 horses to document pain‐related behaviour. Results showed that nine horses had idiopathic hopping‐type forelimb lameness only when ridden; two horses exhibited a hopping‐type gait only on the lunge or worse on the lunge than ridden, and 14 horses had conventional lameness. Head and neck tilt was observed in 24% of horses. Lameness was different on a long rein compared with a contact in 28% of horses. Forelimb stumbling was a feature in 16% of horses. Exacerbation of lameness by diagnostic analgesia was seen in 76% of horses. Radiographic abnormalities of the caudal cervical and cranial thoracic vertebrae of potential clinical significance were observed in 92% of horses. Pain behaviour scores were higher than those reported for nonlame horses. Post‐mortem examination of three horses provided the evidence of caudal cervical or cranial thoracic nerve root compression. Limitations of the study were that it cannot be assumed that there was a common aetiology of lameness in all horses. It was concluded that there is increasing evidence that nerve root injury may cause forelimb lameness.
Treatment of an invasive equine mast cell tumour in the extensor carpi radialis by extensive tenomyectomy and local corticosteroid injections
Authors: Johnston G. C. A. , Zedler S. T.
Published: August 2018

Equine mast cell tumours (MCT) have been reported to occur in the skin, respiratory tract, oral cavity, synovial structures and eye. These tumours are typically locally invasive and nonaggressive. In this case, a MCT was located in the extensor carpi radialis (ECR) and was highly infiltrative. Excision of the ECR and local corticosteroid injection was curative and resulted in a good functional outcome. A 12‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding presented for lameness, swelling and pruritus associated with the right antebrachium. Sonographic changes were suggestive of severe tenosynovitis and purulent material in the ECR. Surgical exploration revealed maceration at the ECR musculotendinous junction. The extensor sheath contained a large quantity of caseous material and serosanguinous fluid. The ECR tendon and 75% of the muscle was excised. Cytology and histopathology were consistent with a MCT that infiltrated the surgical margins. Post‐operatively the horse was treated with multiple local corticosteroid injections along the incision. Right forelimb movement was initially limited, however, there was steady improvement over 3 months with increasing exercise. At 18 months post‐operatively, no lameness was detectable in the walk, trot or canter and no recurrence of MCT was apparent. The horse appeared to compensate for loss of the ECR by using the biceps during the swing phase. Partial excision and local corticosteroid treatment can be curative for cases of invasive MCT. Extensive excision of the ECR is a viable treatment option for neoplasia or other conditions affecting the ECR in the horse.
Using a telemetry study to assess the boundary net efficiency of an enclosure system used for yellow eel density monitoring
Authors: Dorow Malte , Schulz Steffen , Frankowski Jens , Ubl Claus
Published: August 2018

To assess yellow eel (Anguilla anguilla L.) densities in non‐tidal waters, 1‐ha enclosure approach was developed. For unbiased density and biomass calculations, the catchability of the system needs to be evaluated. A telemetry study with 49 tagged eels was conducted in 2015 and 2016 to verify the effectiveness of the 1.8‐m high boundary net. Excluding recaptured eels (N = 10), 42.8% of the released eels (N = 15) escaped the enclosure within 48 hr. Regarding the movement frequency, similar movement patterns were observed for enclosed and escaped eels within 48 hr after release. Based on the telemetry study, it is concluded that the boundary net is recognised as an obstacle by yellow eels, and reduces the escapement of enclosed eels.
Evaluation of eight melanocytic and neural crest‐associated markers in a well‐characterised series of 124 malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours (MPNST): useful to distinguish MPNST from melanoma?
Authors: Gaspard Margot , Lamant Laurence , Tournier Emilie , Valentin Thibaud , Rochaix Philippe , Terrier Philippe , Ranchere‐Vince Dominique , Coindre Jean‐Michel , Filleron Thomas , Le Guellec Sophie
Published: August 2018

Aims

The diagnosis of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (MPNST) may be challenging, especially in the sporadic setting. Owing to the lack of specific histological criteria, immunohistochemical and molecular diagnostic markers, several differential diagnoses must be considered, especially melanoma. Indeed, although S100 protein usually stains melanoma, other melanocytic markers are often negative, especially in spindle cell/desmoplastic types. This pattern of immunoreactivity resembles that of some nerve‐derived tumours such as MPNST. Owing to their different clinical behaviours and therapeutic implications, accurate identification of these two different tumours is crucial.

Methods and results

S100, SOX10, KBA62, MITF, HMB45, Melan‐A, tyrosinase PNL2 and BRAF‐V600E immunostaining was performed in a pathologically and genetically well‐characterised cohort of primary MPNST (n = 124), including 66 (53%) NF1‐associated tumours. Sox10 and KBA62 expression were found, respectively, in 102 (84%) and in 101 (83%) MPNST, whereas S100 was expressed in 64 cases (52%). We observed an increased loss of S100 with increasing histological grade (P = 0.0052). We found Melan‐A expression in 14% (n = 17) of all MPNST, occurring in 82% (n = 14) of cases in an NF1 context. Six per cent (n = 8) of MPNST showed tyrosinase positivity, including seven (87%) NF1‐associated. MITF expression was found in 10 (8%) MPNST. None expressed PNL2, HMB45 or BRAF‐V600E.

Conclusion

MPNST (in NF1 and a sporadic setting) can quite often be positive for Melan‐A, tyrosinase and MITF. Pathologists should be cognisant of these exceptions to prevent confusion with melanoma.
Characteristics and mortality of severe influenza cases treated with parenteral aqueous zanamivir, United Kingdom, October 2009 to January 2011
Authors: Cleary Paul Robert , Crofts Jonathan , Parry‐Ford Frances , Chand Meera , Phin Nick
Published: August 2018

Background

Aqueous zanamivir solution, an investigational product, was provided by the manufacturer on compassionate grounds for parenteral administration to severe H1N1pdm09 influenza cases during the 2009 pandemic.

Objective

To describe characteristics and outcomes of UK patients receiving parenteral zanamivir therapy.

Methods

Collaborators at multiple hospital sites gathered retrospective data on patients receiving aqueous zanamivir therapy between Q4 2009 and Q1 2011. We present analysis of the demographics, clinical features, treatment and outcomes of this cohort.

Results

Data on 185 cases were obtained (response rate of 38%; median age 43 years; 62% male; 17% non‐Caucasian ethnic group). Most frequent co‐morbidities included cancer, immunosuppression and respiratory conditions. Most patients received intravenous zanamivir alone (90%), for durations of up to 21 days. 13% of cases had adverse effects related to zanamivir therapy. Thirty four percentage of cases died. No significant relationship was seen between mortality and timing or route of administration of aqueous zanamivir therapy.

Conclusions

The response rate of this observational study of the outcomes of treatment of severe influenza was low, allowing limited conclusions to be drawn. Some potential adverse effects were noted. Clinicians should carefully consider potential risks and benefits of use of this product. New treatment options are urgently required to improve outcomes for patients with severe influenza infections.
The impact of influenza infection on young children, their family and the health care system
Authors: Willis Gabriela A. , Preen David B. , Richmond Peter C. , Jacoby Peter , Effler Paul V. , Smith David W. , Robins Christine , Borland Meredith L. , Levy Avram , Keil Anthony D. , Blyth Christopher C. ,   the WAIVE Study Team
Published: August 2018

Background

Influenza is a major cause of respiratory illness in young children. Assessing the impact of infection on children and the community is required to guide immunisation policies.

Objectives

To describe the impact of laboratory‐proven influenza in young children and to compare its impact with that of other respiratory viruses on the child, their family and the health care system.

Methods

Preschool children presenting for care or admission to a tertiary paediatric hospital during the 2008‐2014 influenza seasons were tested for respiratory virus by polymerase chain reaction and culture. Parental surveys were used to determine the impact of infection on illness duration, medication use, absenteeism and health service utilisation. Multivariate regression analyses were used to assess the impact of influenza and to evaluate the association between influenza status and outcomes.

Results

Among 1191 children assessed, 238 had influenza. Among children with influenza, 87.8% were administered antipyretics and 40.9% antibiotics. 28.6% had secondary complications. 65.4% of children missed school/day care, and 53.4% of parents missed work. When influenza and other viruses were compared, significant differences were noted including duration of illness (influenza: 9.54 days, other viruses: 8.50 days; P = 0.005) and duration of absenteeism for both the child (23.1 vs 17.3 hours; P = 0.015) and their parents (28.5 vs 22.7 hours; P = 0.012).

Conclusions

Influenza infection in young children has a significant impact on medication use, absenteeism and the use of health care service. Significant differences are identified when compared with other ILI. These data demonstrate that influenza prevention strategies including immunisation are likely to have wide and significant impacts.
Architectural engineering inspired method of preparing Cf/ZrC–SiC with graceful mechanical responses
Authors: Hu Ping , Cheng Yuan , Guo Xiang , Ma Chen , Hu Peitao , Qu Qiang , Zhao Hong , Du Shanyi
Published: August 2018

Inspired by grouting technique in architectural engineering, an innovative method of slurry injection and vacuum impregnation was put forward to introduce nanosized ZrC–SiC ceramics into PyC modified 3‐D needle‐punched carbon fiber preform homogeneously and continuously, followed by spark plasma sintering to prepare Cf/ZrC–SiC with graceful mechanical responses. The composite possessed improved fracture toughness and work of fracture at 5.37 ± 0.25 MPa∙m1/2 and 951 ± 12 J/m2, 50% and nearly one order of magnitude higher than those of ZrC–SiC composite, respectively, with rivaling flexural strength at 177 ± 8 MPa synchronously. A graceful fracture mode was embodied in an obviously extended yield plateau with increased failure displacement by 300%. This enhancement was attributed to the uniform and continuous combination of ZrC–SiC with carbon fiber preform as well as protection and interface tailoring from PyC coating. The study offered an easy and effective method of preparing 3‐D fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composites.
Exploring genetic diversity in an Italian horse native breed to develop strategies for preservation and management
Authors: Ablondi Michela , Vasini Matteo , Beretti Valentino , Superchi Paola , Sabbioni Alberto
Published: August 2018

Genetic diversity is a key factor for both adaptation and response to selection. The loss of genetic diversity causes a decrease in individual fitness, and it has a dramatically negative effect on population lifespan in the long term. This study aimed at exploring the genetic diversity at pedigree level of the Bardigiano horse breed, which is a native breed from Italy shaped for living in rural areas. In 1977, the Bardigiano studbook was founded to preserve the breed and for improving its use for riding and draft purposes. Pedigree data contained 9,469 horses, of which 3,416 were alive. Demographic and genetic parameters were estimated on subpopulations to evaluate potential genetic diversity differences among breeding and nonbreeding animals, and animals showing different breeding values (EBVs) for an index combining 18 conformation traits. Throughout the studied period, inbreeding steadily increased, reaching in the last birth year cohort a mean value equal to 0.10. The rate of inbreeding per generation, assuming a mean generation interval of 8.74 years, was equal to 1.64%. Moreover, significant differences on both average relatedness and inbreeding among horses with high and low EBVs were shown. Our study unravelled the state of genetic diversity in the Bardigiano breed, highlighting that breeding strategies for optimizing the contribution of breeding animals in the coming generations are needed to ensure long‐term survival of the Bardigiano horse breed.
The effects of periodontal treatment on diabetic patients: The DIAPERIO randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vergnes Jean‐Noel , Canceill Thibault , Vinel Alexia , Laurencin‐Dalicieux Sara , Maupas‐Schwalm Françoise , Blasco‐Baqué Vincent , Hanaire Hélène , Arrivé Elise , Rigalleau Vincent , Nabet Cathy , Sixou Michel , Gourdy Pierre , Monsarrat Paul ,   the DIAPERIO Group
Published: August 2018

Aim

To assess whether periodontal treatment can lead to clinical, glycaemic control and quality of life improvements in metabolically unbalanced diabetic patients (type 1 or type 2) diagnosed with periodontitis.

Methods

In this open‐labelled randomized controlled trial, diabetic subjects (n = 91) were given “immediate” or “delayed” periodontal treatment (full‐mouth non‐surgical scaling and root planing, systemic antibiotics, and oral health instructions). The main outcome was the effect on glycated haemoglobin (HbA1C) and fructosamine levels. The General Oral Health Assessment Index and the SF‐36 index were used to assess quality of life (QoL).

Results

Periodontal health significantly improved after periodontal treatment (p < 0.001). Periodontal treatment seemed to be safe but had no significant effects on glycaemic control based on HbA1C (adjusted mean difference with a 95% confidence interval (aMD) of 0.04 [−0.16;0.24]) and fructosamine levels (aMD 5.0 [−10.2;20.2]). There was no obvious evidence of improvement in general QoL after periodontal treatment. However, there was significant improvement in oral health‐related QoL (aMD 7.0 [2.4;11.6], p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Although periodontal treatment showed no clinical effect on glycaemic control in this trial, important data were provided to support periodontal care among diabetic patients. Periodontal treatment is safe and improves oral health‐related QoL in patients living with diabetes. ISRCTN15334496.
Impact of maternal methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism on intervillous and decidual pathology with pregnancy loss
Authors: Mehandjiev Tzvetozar R. , Tenno Nodoka M. , Nakura Yukiko , Georgiev Tzanko P. , Minekawa Ryoko , Wakimoto Tetsu , Mimura Kazuya , Nakayama Masahiro , Kawakami Kanae , Kanagawa Takeshi , Tomimatsu Takuji , Fujita Tomio , Onouchi Yoshihiro , Takeuchi Makoto , Kimura Tadashi , Yanagihara Itaru
Published: August 2018

Aim

The association between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism and intervillous and decidual pathology in patients with pregnancy loss was investigated.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional study on 243 patients presenting with pregnancy loss for the degree of intervillous fibrin and thrombosis (IT), and decidual fibrin and thrombosis (DT) and determined their MTHFR C677T genotypes. Overall differences in age, body mass index (BMI), gravidity, parity, number of pregnancy losses and gestational period when the pathologic samples were obtained, also were determined.

Results

There were no significant differences in age, BMI, gravidity, parity, number of pregnancy losses and gestational period, relative to MTHFR C677T genotype (TT vs CT vs CC). There were significantly more T allele carriers and TT genotype patients among patients with severe IT (odds ratio [OR] 1.653, P = 0.033 and OR 2.246, P = 0.032, respectively) and those with severe IT and decidual thrombosis (OR 2.602, P = 0.012 and OR 3.375, P = 0.035, respectively). The CC genotype was protective against the four studied pathologic grades.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first study showing that the MTHFR C677T TT genotype and T allele are associated with severe intervillous and decidual pathologies in patients with pregnancy loss. Differences in pathologic grades of MTHFR C677T TT genotype could support the hypothesis that further periconceptional treatment for pregnancy loss could be customized depending on single nucleotide polymorphisms.
Effect of increasing doses of vitamin D on bone mineral density and serum N‐terminal telopeptide in elderly women: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Smith L. M. , Gallagher J. C. , Kaufmann M. , Jones G.
Published: August 2018

Background

There are few controlled studies of the effect of different doses of vitamin D3 on bone mineral density (BMD).

Objectives

We conducted a randomized placebo‐controlled trial of increasing doses of vitamin D3 in 163 Caucasian and 31 African American women with serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) ≤50 nmol/L. This is an analysis of secondary outcome BMD to see if there is an association between percent change in BMD and dose of vitamin D3.

Methods

Participants were randomly assigned to placebo, vitamin D3 400, 800, 1600, 2400, 3200, 4000, or 4800 IU/day; calcium supplements, average 600mg, were given to provide a total calcium intake of 1200 mg/d. The primary outcome was 12‐month serum 25OHD level. Analysis methods include ANOVA and Pearson correlations.

Results

The mean percent increase (±SD) in BMD at 12 months for all women was small; total body, 0.62% (± 2.72), femoral neck 0.59% (±3.58) and spine 0.43% (±2.80). There was no difference in BMD or serum N‐telopeptide in response to vitamin D by dose or race. The increase in total body, spine and hip BMD in elderly women given vitamin D doses between 400 and 4800 IU daily and calcium supplementation is small, unrelated to dose or 12‐month serum 25OHD, free 25OHD or 1,25(OH)2D. There was no evidence of a threshold change in BMD with increasing serum 25OHD or free 25OHD in this population.

Conclusions

We found no significant effect of daily vitamin D dose ranging from 400 to 4800 IU/day on BMD or serum N‐terminal telopeptides in elderly women with initially low serum 25OHD.
Symbiochlorum hainanensis gen. et sp. nov. (Ulvophyceae, Chlorophyta) isolated from bleached corals living in the South China Sea
Authors: Gong Sanqiang , Li Zhiyong , Zhang Fengli , Xiao Yilin , Cheng Hao
Published: August 2018

Light/scanning electron/transmission microscopy‐based morphological analyses and multiple nucleotide sequences‐based molecular phylogenetic analyses are used to identify and assess the phylogenetic position of a new unidentified green alga isolated from bleached corals living in the South China Sea. This new unidentified green alga is a unicellular marine alga and has uninucleate vegetative cells and multiple chloroplasts with a pyrenoid. It can form aplanosporangium covered by cell walls and reproduces by releasing autospore. These features differ substantially from those of the two genera Ignatius and Pseudocharacium. Those two genera have been accommodated in the Ignatius clade. Nucleotide sequences of the nuclear small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (18S rRNA), internal transcribed spacer 2 of ribosomal RNA gene (ITS2) and ribulose‐1,5 bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase large subunit gene (rbcL, partial) are obtained and compared with published green algal sequences. The results from the morphology, ultrastructure, and multiple nucleotide sequences data support the placement of the new unidentified green alga in Ulvophyceae. This new unidentified isolate is described as Symbiochlorum hainanensis gen. et sp. nov., a new sister lineage to the Ignatius clade, Ulvophyceae, Chlorophyta.