bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence for Rapoport’s rule and latitudinal patterns in the global distribution and diversity of alien bird species
Authors: Dyer Ellie E. , Redding David W. , Cassey Phillip , Collen Ben , Blackburn Tim M.
Published: March 2020

Aim

To quantify global latitudinal patterns in the distributions of alien bird species to assess whether these species conform to Rapoport's rule (i.e. show a positive latitudinal gradient in latitudinal range extent), and to test whether where species are introduced, and where species fail to establish, may help to drive observed patterns.

Location

Global.

Taxon

Birds (group Aves).

Methods

Data on locations of introduction and establishment for 355 species with established alien populations were combined with data on native range extents (measured in 5° bands of latitude). Relationships between (a) latitude and introduced and established alien species richness, and (b) latitude and introduced and established alien range extent, were plotted. Linear regressions and paired t‐tests were used to compare latitudinal range extents, midpoints, and limits of each species in its introduced alien range, established alien range and native range.

Results

Latitudes that have more established alien bird species also have had more species introduced in total. The mean total latitudinal extents (i.e. geographic range size) of established alien bird species increase with latitude poleward of the tropics, consistent with Rapoport's rule, but are smaller in the tropics. This pattern is weaker in the range sizes of native bird species. Alien bird species are more likely to be introduced within the latitudinal confines of their native ranges, and are more likely to contract away from the more extreme latitudes to which they were introduced. Alien bird species are in general more likely to have established populations nearer the equator.

Main conclusions

Including data on locations of introduction in addition to established distributions enables us to determine the extent to which large‐scale alien species distributions are determined by anthropogenic or natural processes. Latitudinal patterns in range extent (Rapoport's rule) and species richness in alien birds are largely a consequence of where species have been introduced, and hence are unlikely to be informative of equivalent patterns in native species.
Preservice and inservice teachers' pedagogical reasoning underlying their most‐valued technology‐supported instructional activities
Authors: Hughes Joan E. , Cheah Yin Hong , Shi Yi , Hsiao Kuei‐Hui
Published: March 2020

We examined teachers' pedagogical reasoning for and the technological knowledge underlying their most‐valued technology‐supported activities for teaching and learning. Data from 140 preservice and 100 inservice teachers included open‐ended, narrative responses to survey questions. Qualitative research methods guided analysis of the data that identified (a) the technology‐supported activities and (b) the technical tools, target users, types of uses, rationales for use, and the TPACK underlying each activity. Preservice teachers described mostly teacher‐focused and fewer student‐focused techno‐activities, and their reasoning for use focused on the technology's presentational and engagement effects. A majority of inservice teachers' techno‐activities were student‐focused, and their reasoning highlighted the technology's support for knowledge acquisition of higher‐order cognitive skills and collaborative learning. The knowledge underlying all teachers' techno‐activities was predominantly technological pedagogical knowledge (TPK), but inservice teachers also evidenced technological content knowledge (TCK). These results may reveal differences in the teachers' respective learning experiences in teacher education and professional development or reflect a professional maturation process in that it takes teachers time in the field as professionals to broaden their techno‐activity repertoires to prioritize student‐focus. Sharing the reasoning patterns in this study with teachers may assist them in developing deeper justifications for their technological work in the classroom.
Potent USP10/13 antagonist spautin‐1 suppresses melanoma growth via ROS‐mediated DNA damage and exhibits synergy with cisplatin
Authors: Guo Jia , Zhang JiangLing , Liang Long , Liu Nian , Qi Min , Zhao Shuang , Su Juan , Liu Jing , Peng Cong , Chen Xiang , Liu Hong
Published: March 2020

Malignant melanoma is one of the most invasive tumours. However, effective therapeutic strategies are limited, and overall survival rates remain low. By utilizing transcriptomic profiling, tissue array and molecular biology, we revealed that two key ubiquitin‐specific proteases (USPs), ubiquitin‐specific peptidase10 (USP10) and ubiquitin‐specific peptidase10 (USP13), were significantly elevated in melanoma at the mRNA and protein levels. Spautin‐1 has been reported as a USP10 and USP13 antagonist, and we demonstrated that spautin‐1 has potent anti‐tumour effects as reflected by MTS and the colony formation assays in various melanoma cell lines without cytotoxic effects in HaCaT and JB6 cell lines. Mechanistically, we identified apoptosis and ROS‐mediated DNA damage as critical mechanisms underlying the spautin‐1‐mediated anti‐tumour effect by utilizing transcriptomics, qRT‐PCR validation, flow cytometry, Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. Importantly, by screening spautin‐1 with targeted or chemotherapeutic drugs, we showed that spautin‐1 exhibited synergy with cisplatin in the treatment of melanoma. Pre‐clinically, we demonstrated that spautin‐1 significantly attenuated tumour growth in a cell line‐derived xenograft mouse model, and its anti‐tumour effect was further enhanced by cotreatment with cisplatin. Taken together, our study revealed a novel molecular mechanism of spautin‐1 effecting in melanoma and identified a potential therapeutic strategy in treatment of melanoma patients.
Pancreatic fat accumulation evaluated by multidetector computed tomography in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Fukase Ayako , Fukui Tomoyasu , Sasamori Hiroto , Hiromura Munenori , Terasaki Michishige , Mori Yusaku , Hayashi Toshiyuki , Yamamoto Takeshi , Ohara Makoto , Goto Satoshi , Nagaike Hiroe , Hirano Tsutomu , Yamagishi Sho‐ichi
Published: March 2020

Aims

To clarify the clinical impact of pancreatic fat volume on beta cell function in type 2 diabetes patients.

Materials and Methods

One hundred thirty two consecutive type 2 diabetic patients (mean age, 63.7 years) were enrolled in this cross‐sectional study. Total pancreatic volume (TPV), pancreatic fat volume (PFV), and pancreatic parenchymal volume (PPV), and visceral fat volume were examined quantitatively with multidetector computed tomography using SYNAPSE VINCENT image analysis system (Fujifilm Inc., Tokyo, Japan). Pancreatic fat was identified using Hounsfield Units of less than zero. The capacity of insulin secretion was assessed by C‐peptide immunoreactivity (CPR) index (100 × fasting CPR/fasting plasma glucose). Insulin sensitivity was evaluated using CPR‐insulin resistance (20/fasting CPR × fasting plasma glucose).

Results

TPV, PFV, PPV, and visceral fat volume were significantly correlated with body weight (BW). PPV/BW, but not PFV/BW, significantly decreased with increasing duration of diabetes and aging. PFV/BW was positively associated with body mass index and visceral fat volume/BW. PFV/BW was significantly correlated with CPR index, while inversely associated with insulin sensitivity. CPR index, but not CPRinsulin resistance was progressively decreased in patients with a longer duration of diabetes. When patients were divided into two groups according to a median PFV/BW value, CPR index in high PFV/BW group with diabetes duration >5 years was significantly lower than those ≤5 years. However, duration‐dependent decrease in CPR index was not observed in low PFV/BW group.

Conclusions

Our present study suggests that PFV might predict the progression of beta cell dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Topical rapamycin versus betamethasone dipropionate ointment for treating oral erosive lichen planus: a randomized, double‐blind, controlled study
Authors: Samimi M. , Le Gouge A. , Boralevi F. , Passeron T. , Pascal F. , Bernard P. , Agbo‐Godeau S , Leducq S. , Fricain JC , Vaillant L. , Francès C.
Published: March 2020

Background

Although superpotent topical corticosteroids are the first‐line treatment for oral erosive lichen planus (OELP), topical rapamycin was found efficient in a previous case series.

Objectives

To compare the efficacy and safety of topical rapamycin and betamethasone dipropionate ointment for OELP in a randomized, double‐blind trial.

Methods

Patients were randomized to receive treatment with betamethasone dipropionate ointment 0.05% in Orabase® or topical rapamycin solution (1 mg/mL) on lesions twice daily for 3 months, followed by 3 months of observation. The primary outcome was clinical remission after 3 months of treatment. Secondary outcomes were clinical remission after 1 and 2 months, reduced oral pain and reduced impact on food intake after 3 months, clinical recurrence after treatment withdrawal, and adverse events.

Results

During a 4‐year period, 76 patients were randomized and 75 received treatment (rapamycin, n = 39; betamethasone, n = 36). At 3 months, 39.4% of patients with betamethasone and 27.3% with rapamycin showed clinical remission (odds ratio 0.68, 95% CI [0.24; 1.89]; P = 0.46). Rates of remission after 1 and 2 months, reduction in pain and impact on food intake after 3 months, were higher with betamethasone than rapamycin. Recurrence of oral erosions was similar between groups. Adverse events occurred in 43.6% of patients with rapamycin (mostly burning sensation, impaired taste) and 27.8% with betamethasone (mostly oral candidiasis).

Conclusion

Although the study was limited by insufficient recruitment, we did not find any superiority of topical rapamycin over betamethasone dipropionate ointment for OELP. Given the rapid remission and pain improvement in the betamethasone group, it appears that superpotent topical corticosteroids should remain the first‐line treatment for OELP.
The role of head shape and trophic variation in the diversification of the genus Herichthys in sympatry and allopatry
Authors: Pérez‐Miranda Fabian , Mejía Omar , González‐Díaz Alfonso A. , Martínez‐Méndez Norberto , Soto‐Galera Eduardo , Zúñiga Gerardo , Říčan Oldrich
Published: March 2020

In the present study we evaluated the putative cases of sympatric speciation in the genus Herichthys by studying the variation in head shape using principal component analysis, phylomorphospace and reconstructions of the ancestral states of feeding preferences. Herichthys includes both allopatric and sympatric sister species, as well as sympatric unrelated species and thus offers great potential for evolutionary studies of putatively sympatric speciation. Herichthys is the northernmost group of cichlids in America and one of the most ecologically disparate genera within Middle American cichlids. Fifteen anatomical points were recorded on the heads of 293 specimens of the 11 species recognized within the genus. The results show that in spite of having wide variation in consumed diets, most species of Herichthys are close in morphospace. However, morphological variation was great among the two pairs of sympatric sister species in agreement with the suggested sympatric model of speciation.
Anadromy and marine habitat use of Lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) from the central Canadian Arctic
Authors: Harris Les N. , Swanson Heidi K. , Gilbert Matthew J.H. , Malley Brendan K. , Fisk Aaron T. , Moore Jean‐Sébastien
Published: March 2020

Anadromy was documented in 16 lake trout, Salvelinus namaycush, from Canada's central Arctic using capture data and otolith microchemistry. For the first time, estuarine/marine habitat use was described for five individuals using acoustic telemetry. Age‐at‐first‐migration to sea was variable (10–39 years) among individuals and most S. namaycush undertook multiple anadromous migrations within their lifetime. Telemetry data suggested that S. namaycush do not travel far into marine habitats and prefer surface waters (<2 m). These results further our collective understanding of the marine ecology of Arctic S. namaycush.
Regulation of lipid‐induced macrophage polarization through modulating peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐gamma activity affects hepatic lipid metabolism via a Toll‐like receptor 4/NF‐κB signaling pathway
Authors: Wu Hui‐Min , Ni Xi‐Xi , Xu Qin‐Yu , Wang Qi , Li Xiao‐Yun , Hua Jing
Published: March 2020

Background and Aim

Chronic inflammation links closely to insulin resistance and lipid metabolism in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Macrophage M1 activation plays an important role in the initiation and continuing of pro‐inflammatory response of NAFLD. Our study was to investigate whether macrophage M1/M2 polarization switching would affect hepatic inflammation and lipid metabolism through modulation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐gamma (PPAR‐γ) activity in vivo and in vitro.

Methods

RAW264.7 macrophages were treated with different fatty acids, and cell culture supernatants were collected to prepare conditioned media (CM). Different co‐culture systems between primary hepatocytes and CM from macrophages were established. A PPAR‐γ agonist or antagonist was administered to regulate PPAR‐γ activity and macrophage polarization. M1/M2 phenotype markers, inflammatory signaling pathway, and lipid‐related genes expression were determined. Wild‐type C57BL/6 mice were fed a high‐fat diet to induce NAFLD and given rosiglitazone to regulate PPAR‐γ activity in vivo.

Results

Saturated fatty acids induced M1‐polarized macrophages while polyunsaturated fatty acids induced M2‐polarized macrophages. M1‐polarized macrophages significantly promoted lipid synthesis and accumulation in primary hepatocytes through upregulation of a toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4)/NF‐κB signaling pathway. The PPAR‐γ agonist made lipid‐induced M1‐polarized macrophages switch to an M2‐predominant phenotype, while PPAR‐γ antagonist had the opposite effect. Macrophage polarization shifting subsequently affected lipid metabolism in primary hepatocytes. Administration of rosiglitazone improved high‐fat diet induced hepatic steatosis and lipid metabolism through reducing hepatic TLR4/NF‐κB expression and M1‐polarized Kupffer cells.

Conclusions

Lipid‐induced macrophage M1 polarization promoted hepatic lipid metabolism. Modulation of PPAR‐γ activity could shift macrophage polarization and subsequently affect lipid metabolism. Upregulation of the TLR4/NF‐κB signaling pathway is closely linked to dysregulated lipid metabolism in NAFLD.
Is a ‘healthy diet’ and a ‘calcium‐rich diet’ the same thing? Qualitative study examining perceptions of a calcium‐rich diet in individuals who have received bone health education
Authors: Yu W. W. , Linton D. , Porteous J. , Eatson H. , Jain R. , Sale J. E. M.
Published: March 2020

Background

In the present study, we aimed to (i) examine perceptions of achieving calcium and vitamin D recommended dietary allowance (RDA) and (ii) determine how participants talked about food in relation to RDA recommendations.

Methods

Participants aged ≥50 years who were prescribed osteoporosis medication and received two modes of bone health education were eligible. Relying on a qualitative description design, we interviewed participants 1 month after they had attended an education session and received a self‐management booklet. Calcium and vitamin D intakes were estimated by in‐depth questions about diet and supplements and compared with perceptions of achieved RDA levels. Interview transcripts were analysed based on an analytic hierarchical process.

Results

Forty‐five participants (29 reporting previous fragility fractures) were included. Calcium and vitamin D RDA appeared to be potentially achieved by 64% and 93% of participants, respectively, primarily because of reliance on supplements. Few participants talked about vitamin D in relation to food intake and 49% of participants were unclear about the calcium content of food. Most considered that a healthy diet was equivalent to a calcium‐rich diet. We noted no differences in our findings in the subset of individuals with fragility fractures.

Conclusions

Despite reporting a prescription for osteoporosis medication and receiving bone health education, a substantial number of individuals appeared to have sub‐optimal calcium levels. This may be attributed to the challenge of achieving RDA with diet alone and the misconception of a healthy diet as a calcium‐rich diet.
BRUP‐1, an intracellular bilirubin modulator, exerts neuroprotective activity in a cellular Parkinson’s disease model
Authors: Kataura Tetsushi , Saiki Shinji , Ishikawa Kei‐ichi , Akamatsu Wado , Sasazawa Yukiko , Hattori Nobutaka , Imoto Masaya
Published: March 2020

Bilirubin, the end product of heme redox metabolism, has cytoprotective properties and is an essential metabolite associated with cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, type 2 diabetes, and neurodegenerative diseases including Parkinson's disease (PD). PD is characterized by progressive degeneration of nigral dopaminergic neurons and is associated with elevated oxidative stress due to mitochondrial dysfunction. In this study, using a ratiometric bilirubin probe, we revealed that the mitochondrial inhibitor, rotenone, which is widely used to create a PD model, significantly decreased intracellular bilirubin levels in HepG2 cells. Chemical screening showed that BRUP‐1 was a top hit that restored cellular bilirubin levels that were lowered by rotenone. We found that BRUP‐1 up‐regulated the expression level of heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), one of the rate‐limiting enzyme of bilirubin production via nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) activation. In addition, we demonstrated that this Nrf2 activation was due to a direct inhibition of the interaction between Nrf2 and Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1) by BRUP‐1. Both HO‐1 up‐regulation and bilirubin restoration by BRUP‐1 treatment were significantly abrogated by Nrf2 silencing. In neuronal PC12D cells, BRUP‐1 also activated the Nrf2‐HO‐1 axis and increased bilirubin production, resulted in the suppression of neurotoxin‐induced cell death, reactive oxygen species production, and protein aggregation, which are hallmarks of PD. Furthermore, BRUP‐1 showed neuroprotective activity against rotenone‐treated neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells. These findings provide a new member of Keap1‐Nrf2 direct inhibitors and suggest that chemical modulation of heme metabolism using BRUP‐1 may be beneficial for PD treatment.

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Contemporary nursing graduates’ transition to practice: A critical review of transition models
Authors: Graf Amanda C. , Jacob Elisabeth , Twigg Diane , Nattabi Barbara
Published: March 2020

Aim and objective

To critically review contemporary transition theories to determine how they apply to the newly qualified graduate registered nurse programmes.

Background

Graduate nurse transition to employment is the time of significant change which has resulted in high attrition rates. Graduates are often challenged by their expectation of nursing practice and the reality of the role. The transition from hospital‐based training to university‐based training has resulted in the need for primary employment to commence with graduate/orientation/internship programmes to help support new graduates transition into clinical practice. One transition model, Duchscher's stages of transition theory, utilised three former theories to develop a final model.

Design

A narrative critical literature review.

Method

The theories selected for the review were Kramer's reality shock theory, Benner's novice to expert theory, Bridges transition theory and Duchscher's stages of transition theory.

Conclusion

Duchscher's stages of transition theory reflects the experiences of registered nursing transition into the workforce directly from university. The application of the theory is effective to guide understanding of the current challenges that new graduate nurse's experience today. There is a need for new graduates to complete their university degree as advanced beginners in order to decrease the experience of transition shock and keep pace with rapidly changing demands of the clinical environment. This may be achieved by increasing ward‐based simulation in university education. A theoretical framework can provide a deep understanding of the various stages and processes of transition and enable development of successful programmes.

Relevance to clinical practice

Both universities and hospitals need to adapt their current practice to align with the needs of new graduates due to large student numbers and ongoing systematic advancements to decrease the attrition rate.
Evaluation of the TRANSITION tool to improve communication during older patients’ care transitions: Healthcare practitioners’ perspectives
Authors: Allen Jacqueline , Hutchinson Alison M. , Brown Rhonda , Livingston Patricia M.
Published: March 2020

Aims

To evaluate healthcare practitioners’ perceptions of the feasibility and acceptability of a communication tool, entitled the TRANSITION tool, to communicate with older patients during transition from acute care to a community setting.

Background

Transitional care for older patients is challenging due to their complex care needs and rapid care transitions. Research has identified effective models of transitional care. However, optimal communication between healthcare practitioners and older patients remains under‐investigated.

Design

Exploratory descriptive qualitative design.

Methods

The methods are reported using the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies checklist. The setting comprised two acute medical wards in an urban hospital in Australia. Twenty‐two nursing and allied healthcare practitioners used the TRANSITION tool to guide communication about transitional care with an older patient and then participated in an interview about their experience of using the tool. All data were thematically analysed.

Findings

Healthcare practitioners reported their perceptions that the TRANSITION tool was feasible and acceptable, and that they perceived the tool supported them to know what to ask and to find out information regarding their patient's transitional care needs. Some ward‐based nurses reported their perception that transitional care was not their role.

Conclusions

Findings emphasise transitional care as a continuing care process that requires effective communication between nurses and older patients in acute medical wards.

Relevance to clinical practice

Given shorter lengths of stay, complex care needs and slow recovery, ward‐based nurses are vital in communicating with older patients about their transitional care needs. The TRANSITION tool may support communication between ward‐based nurses and older patients to improve assessment and planning. Implementation of the tool will require a planned strategy to facilitate translation of the tool into routine practice of ward‐based nurses to support their roles during older patients’ care transitions.
The “Last of the Ordinary Sundays”: How to Prepare for the Air War
Authors: Mair Kimberly
Published: March 2020

How did instructions for war preparations change the contours of the household in Britain during the Second World War? How were readers of instructional leaflets positioned in relation to the presumed safety of the household and the nation? To illustrate the range of imperative instructions that circulated before and during the war, as well as anxious air war anticipation, this piece draws from home front imperatives communicated through a variety of sources, including pre‐war and wartime instructional leaflets, posters, and other literature to demonstrate their reach into the most minute aspects of everyday life to establish a productive link between habit and care.
Artificial intelligence as the next step towards precision pathology
Authors: Acs B. , Rantalainen M. , Hartman J.
Published: March 2020

Pathology is the cornerstone of cancer care. The need for accuracy in histopathologic diagnosis of cancer is increasing as personalized cancer therapy requires accurate biomarker assessment. The appearance of digital image analysis holds promise to improve both the volume and precision of histomorphological evaluation. Recently, machine learning, and particularly deep learning, has enabled rapid advances in computational pathology. The integration of machine learning into routine care will be a milestone for the healthcare sector in the next decade, and histopathology is right at the centre of this revolution. Examples of potential high‐value machine learning applications include both model‐based assessment of routine diagnostic features in pathology, and the ability to extract and identify novel features that provide insights into a disease. Recent groundbreaking results have demonstrated that applications of machine learning methods in pathology significantly improves metastases detection in lymph nodes, Ki67 scoring in breast cancer, Gleason grading in prostate cancer and tumour‐infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) scoring in melanoma. Furthermore, deep learning models have also been demonstrated to be able to predict status of some molecular markers in lung, prostate, gastric and colorectal cancer based on standard HE slides. Moreover, prognostic (survival outcomes) deep neural network models based on digitized HE slides have been demonstrated in several diseases, including lung cancer, melanoma and glioma. In this review, we aim to present and summarize the latest developments in digital image analysis and in the application of artificial intelligence in diagnostic pathology.
Dividend policy and capital structure of a defaultable firm
Authors: Tse Alex S. L.
Published: March 2020

Default risk significantly affects the corporate policies of a firm. We develop a model in which a limited liability entity subject to default at an exponential random time jointly sets its dividend policy and capital structure to maximize the expected lifetime utility from consumption of risk‐averse equity investors. We give a complete characterization of the solution to the singular stochastic control problem. The optimal policy involves paying dividends to keep the ratio of firm's equity value to investors' wealth below a critical threshold. Dividend payout acts as a precautionary channel to transfer wealth from the firm to investors for mitigation of losses in the event of default. Higher the default risk, more aggressively the firm leverages and pays dividends.
Carbon sink strength of nodules but not other organs modulates photosynthesis of faba bean (Vicia faba) grown under elevated [CO2] and different water supply
Authors: Parvin Shahnaj , Uddin Shihab , Tausz‐Posch Sabine , Armstrong Roger , Tausz Michael
Published: March 2020

Photosynthetic stimulation by elevated [CO2] (e[CO2]) may be limited by the capacity of sink organs to use photosynthates. In many legumes, N2‐fixing symbionts in root nodules provide an additional sink, so that legumes may be better able to profit from e[CO2]. However, drought not only constrains photosynthesis but also the size and activity of sinks, and little is known about the interaction of e[CO2] and drought on carbon sink strength of nodules and other organs.

To compare carbon sink strength, faba bean was grown under ambient (400 ppm) or elevated (700 ppm) atmospheric [CO2] and subjected to well‐watered or drought treatments, and then exposed to 13C pulse‐labelling using custom‐built chambers to track the fate of new photosynthates.

Drought decreased 13C uptake and nodule sink strength, and this effect was even greater under e[CO2], and was associated with an accumulation of amino acids in nodules. This resulted in decreased N2 fixation, and increased accumulation of new photosynthates (13C/sugars) in leaves, which in turn can feed back on photosynthesis.

Our study suggests that nodule C sink activity is key to avoid sink limitation in legumes under e[CO2], and legumes may only be able to achieve greater C gain if nodule activity is maintained.
How does council–manager conflict affect managerial turnover intention? The role of job embeddedness and cooperative context
Authors: Liao Yuguo , Sun Rusi
Published: March 2020

Turnover intention is an important yet underexamined concept in local government studies. Although the association between council–manager conflict and managerial turnover intention is well documented, the underlying mechanisms have not yet been elucidated. This study fills this research gap by analysing two variables in the relationship: organizational job embeddedness and cooperative context. Results from partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM) reveal that organizational job embeddedness mediates the link between task conflict and managerial turnover intention. The results also indicate that a cooperative context can moderate the negative indirect relationship between council–manager task conflict and managerial turnover intention.
Anesthetic considerations in children with Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome: A narrative review
Authors: Nijs Kristof , Van de Velde Marc , Hoogma Danny
Published: March 2020

Background

Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome is a rare disease in childhood that results in premature aging. The presence of multisystem derangements including skin, bone, and joint diseases and possibly a difficult airway makes the anesthetic management challenging. Because of the extremely low prevalence, experience is limited even for experienced pediatric anesthesiologists.

Objective

To review the available literature on anesthesia for patients with Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome and to give recommendations for establishing the best practice for patients with Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome.

Design

A narrative review of the rare existing literature.

Date sources

CENTRAL (Cochrane), EMBASE, Google Scholar, MEDLINE and PubMed.

Eligibility criteria

Articles addressing anesthesia in patients with Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome were included.

Results

An overview of the current literature was made on anesthesia care for patients with Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome. After screening the literature, only ten articles were found to be of interest and include some case reports and a correspondence. The focus points on how to perform anesthesia care in patients with Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome and the entire perioperative care are suggested. The available data are limited and results need to be interpreted with caution.

Conclusion

The patients with Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome are not just “frail” patients. Awareness concerning intubation difficulties is mandatory, and airway strategies must be addressed in advance. Although these patients present with the physiology of an elderly with accompanying comorbidities, emotionally they are only children and should be approached as such.
The WRKY6 transcription factor affects seed oil accumulation and alters fatty acid compositions in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Song Ge , Li Xueping , Munir Raheel , Khan Ali Raza , Azhar Wardah , Yasin Muhammad Umair , Jiang Qining , Bancroft Ian , Gan Yinbo
Published: March 2020

In rapeseed, the oil content of the seed not only supplies energy for seed germination and seedling development but also provides essential dietary nutrients for humans and livestock. Recent studies have revealed that many transcription factors (TFs) regulate the accumulation of fatty acids (FAs) during seed development. WRKY6, a WRKY6 family TF, was reported to serve a function in the plant senescence processes, pathogen defense mechanisms and abiotic stress responses. However, the precise role of WRKY6 in influencing FA accumulation in seeds is still unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that WRKY6 has a high expression level in developing seeds and plays an essential role in regulating the accumulation of FAs in developing seeds of Arabidopsis. Mutation of WRKY6 resulted in significant increase in seed size, accompanied by an increase in FA content and changes in FA composition. Ultrastructure analyses showed that the absence of WRKY6 resulted in more and higher percentage of oil body in the cell of mature seeds. Quantitative real‐time PCR analysis revealed changes in the expression of several genes related to photosynthesis and FA biosynthesis in wrky6 mutants at 10 or 16 days after pollination. These results reveal a novel function of WRKY6 influencing seed oil content and FAs compositions. This gene could be used as a promising gene resource to improve FA accumulation and seed yield in Brassica napus through genetic manipulation.
More than just a product: Strengthening literature in sociological analysis
Authors: Váňa Jan
Published: March 2020

Contemporary sociology of literature is predominantly shaped by the research of literary production, which approaches literary works as black boxes and subordinates them to social interactions and institutions. Even sociologists who recognize usefulness of literature for its inner quality often look at literary texts as mere passive objects to be translated into sociological discourse. In proposing anew sociology of literature, I first briefly outline the history of sociological studies of literature; second, I introduce “the state of the art” in the sociology of literature; third, I explore the relationship between sociology and literature in more general terms; and lastly, I discuss approaches and ideas with the potential to become components of a new research program, which would be a powerful alternative to the mainstream paradigms in sociological studies of literature. Such a program would make it clear that sociology can greatly benefit from cooperation with literature when sociologists are sensitive to the subtleties and (especially aesthetic) specificities of literary works.
Impacts of tangible and intangible elements of Aid for Trade on the globalisation of developing countries
Authors: Lee Hyo Won , Kim Youngwan
Published: March 2020

The Aid for Trade initiative was launched by the WTO in 2005 to help developing countries build their supply‐side capacity and trade‐related infrastructure to improve their capacity in the global market. This study investigates the impacts of both the tangible and intangible elements of this initiative on the economic, social and political globalisation of recipient countries. Intangible elements of Aid for Trade (aid for trade policy and regulation) may be considered as the software of Aid for Trade, while tangible elements (aid for economic infrastructure and building productive capacity) are the hardware. Countries that receive Aid for Trade can use both types of elements to succeed in globalisation. This research hypothesises that the tangible elements of Aid for Trade have a singular effect on the overall level of globalisation since they are expected to only increase the level of economic globalisation. Moreover, we expect that the intangible elements of Aid for Trade will have multiple effects on the overall level of globalisation as they have an impact on not only economic aspects but also social and political aspects of it. Using the dataset of Aid for Trade from 2002 to 2015, we find that the intangible elements of Aid for Trade have increased the recipients' level of overall globalisation.
The trade facilitation impact of the Chinese diaspora
Authors: Martínez‐Zarzoso Inmaculada , Rudolf Robert
Published: March 2020

Using an enhanced data set on the population share of overseas Chinese in 1970 and 1990, this paper analyses the impact of the Chinese diaspora on facilitating China's bilateral trade during the period 1973–2013. Our findings suggest substantial trade creation effects resulting from the presence of ethnic Chinese in the trade partner population. Diaspora impacts on Chinese bilateral imports are in general higher than those found for exports. Coethnic networks play a larger role as long as the partner country does not have an RTA with China in place. Among export sectors, effects found were strongest for food, as well as for machinery and transport equipment. In regard to imports, coethnic networks matter mostly for raw materials, machinery and transport equipment, and chemicals.
Diagnosis of canine renal lymphoma by cytology and flow cytometry of the urine
Authors: Witschen Patrice M. , Sharkey Leslie C. , Seelig Davis M. , Granick Jennifer L. , Dykstra Jaclyn A. , Carlson Tim W. , Motschenbacher Laura O.
Published: March 2020

Lymphoma is a common hematopoietic neoplasm of dogs. A definitive diagnosis typically requires the collection of samples via fine‐needle aspirate or biopsy. A unique case of canine renal T‐cell lymphoma diagnosed using urine sediment microscopy with flow cytometry and PCR for Antigen Receptor Rearrangement (PARR) is presented. A fresh urine sample was collected via a urinary catheter and immediately prepared for cytologic examination, flow cytometry, and PARR. The flow cytometric study revealed that 83% of the cells were large CD3+CD8+ T cells, while PARR identified a clonally rearranged T‐cell receptor gene, supporting the flow cytometry findings. Despite supportive care, the patient progressed to anuric renal failure and was humanely euthanized. A necropsy was performed, and tissues from the upper and lower urinary tracts were collected. Histologically, the right and left kidneys were infiltrated by a neoplastic round cell population effacing the cortex and medulla. Immunohistochemistry for the T‐ and B‐cell antigens CD3 and CD20, respectively, revealed that the neoplastic population within the kidney demonstrated diffuse, strong, membranous to intracytoplasmic CD3 expression while lacking CD20 expression. These results confirmed the diagnosis of renal T‐cell lymphoma. This is the first known report of canine lymphoma diagnosed using either urine flow cytometry or clonality testing. Therefore, in select cases, urine flow cytometry and/or PARR are feasible to perform on urine‐derived cells as a quick and cost‐effective means to aid in the diagnosis of urinary tract lymphoma.
Conciencia de las capacidades personales y rendimiento académico en la implementación de un programa psicoeducativo
Authors: Márquez López Esperanza , Holgado-Ramos Daniel , Maya-Jariego Isidro
Published: March 2020

La mejora de la experiencia educativa de los menores y el desarrollo de competencias personales reducen el riesgo de trabajo infantil. En este estudio valoramos el impacto de una intervención psicoeducativa para la prevención del trabajo infantil en dos barrios de la periferia de Lima. Con un diseño pretest-postest, evaluamos los cambios en la autoestima, la autoeficacia, las habilidades sociales, la asistencia a la escuela y el rendimiento académico de 48 alumnos de entre 8 y 13 años (M=10.38, DE=1.22). Los resultados mostraron una mejora en la autoestima percibida y un descenso en la autoeficacia social y el auto-informe de habilidades sociales. La evaluación cualitativa de la percepción de los cambios por parte de los estudiantes, los padres y los docentes mostró mejoras en el desarrollo socio-afectivo de los participantes. La evaluación del programa sugiere la existencia de un proceso de toma de conciencia de las capacidades personales por parte de los participantes, junto con pequeñas mejoras en el ámbito académico que pueden repercutir indirectamente en el riesgo del trabajo infantil.
Managing School Climate Issues at the School District Level: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Ascorra Paula , Álvarez-Figueroa Francisca , Queupil Juan Pablo
Published: March 2020

Several research have studied how school management impacts cognitive and non-cognitive components of students’ lives. However, less is known about what district level administrators do when dealing with issues concerning school climate. This study aims a comprehensive review of the literature on school district level involvement in school climate, with focus on the underlying school climate construct, methods, and associated outcomes. The results show four dominant dimensions: community, safety, risk, and academic performance. District level administrators are concerned not only of students’ but also of teachers’ wellbeing, with special focus placed on teacher stress and burnout. Despite the positive impact of informed decision making on school performance, accountability pressures involved in meeting evaluation criteria may offset the benefits. Our review confirms the need to support district leadership to set the goals and measure the progress of successful strategies to manage school climate issues.
The Static Instability Characteristics of Labyrinth Seals: Experiments and Computational Fluid Dynamics Verification
Authors: Zhang Wanfu , Ma Kai , Cao Hao , Wang Tengxi , Yang Jiangang , Li Chun
Published: March 2020

The paper proposed an experimental measurement to identify the fluid-induced force and static stiffness coefficients. A three-dimensional fluid model of the labyrinth seals was also established. And the static characteristics under different eccentricities and inlet pressure were studied. Theoretical results show a good agreement with the experiment results. The labyrinth seal with different eccentricity ratios produces a de-centered fluid-induced force and a negative direct static stiffness, which cause the rotor deviating from the geometric center of the stator. Both the fluid-induced force and negative direct static stiffness coefficient with a value of −13.5 kN/m to −72 kN/m increase with increasing eccentricity and inlet pressure. Particularly, the direct static stiffness coefficient shows a relatively significant increase with a high eccentricity ratio (∼>40%). The static instability is mainly due to the fact that the fluid velocity in the small clearance increases more rapidly along the leakage path. The inertial force is increased significantly and the pressure decreases. This results in a greater pressure distribution in the larger clearance. The fluid force and direct static stiffness coefficient that tend to push the rotor away from the stator center are produced, and eventually lead to the static instability of the labyrinth seal.
Deploying a Mini-CEM System at the Hampton/NASA Steam Plant
Authors: Austin John S.
Published: March 2020

The Hampton/NASA Steam Plant embarked on a project to replace the 16 year old emission monitors for the facility’s two refuse fired boiler units. The challenge was to install monitors that could fully meet the current EPA requirements while providing continuous monitoring with less than a one minute response time. The facility installed two Land FGA 930e analyzers close coupled to the outlet duct of the economizer. The sample conditioning system installed has enabled reliable operation while protecting the analyzers. The analyzers passed the initial RATA at the first try, and have been performing well over six months of operation. The total costs for the project was $75,800.
Different attributes of creaky voice distinctly affect Mandarin tonal perception
Authors: Huang Yaqian
Published: March 2020

Previous work has shown mixed findings concerning the role of voice quality cues in Mandarin tones, with some studies showing that creak improves identification. This study tests the linguistic importance of acoustic properties of creak for Mandarin tone perception. Mandarin speakers identified tones with four resynthesized creak manipulations: low spectral tilt, irregular F0, period doubling, and extra-low F0. Two experiments with three conditions were conducted. In Experiment 1, the manipulations were confined to a portion of the stimuli's duration; in Experiment 2 the creak manipulations were modified and lengthened throughout the stimuli, and in a second condition, noise was incorporated to weaken F0 cues. Listeners remained most sensitive to extra-low F0, which affected identification of the four tones differently: it improved the identification accuracy of Tone 3 and hindered that of Tones 1 and 4. Irregular F0 consistently hindered T1 identification. The effects of irregular F0, period doubling, and low spectral tilt emerged in Experiment 2, where F0 cues were less robust and creak cues were stronger. Thus, low F0 is the most prominent cue used in Mandarin tone identification, but other voice quality cues become more salient to listeners when the F0 cues are less retrievable.
Sand in the Shorts: Experiences of Moral Discomfort in Adapted Physical Activity Professional Practice
Authors: Ebert Amanda , Goodwin Donna L.
Published: March 2020

Adapted physical activity (APA) practitioners are encouraged to be reflexive practitioners, yet little is known about the moral dilemmas faced as they instruct inclusive physical activity or fitness programs. Professional landscape tensions may arise when diverse organizational demands, policies, traditions, and values merge. The study purpose was to explore how APA professionals experience and resolve moral discomfort in professional practice. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, seven APA professionals completed one-on-one semistructured interviews. The conceptual framework of relational ethics facilitated deep engagement with the professionals’ stories of navigating the ethical minefields of their practice. Four themes were developed from the thematic interpretative phenomenological analysis: The ass(et) of vulnerability, Friends or friendly? “We are fucked either way,” and Now what? Grappling with discomfort. The moral discomfort and strategies for resolution described by APA professionals highlighted the need for judgment-free pedagogical spaces where taken-for-granted practices can be contemplated and discussed.
Activity of Imipenem-Relebactam against Carbapenem-Resistant Escherichia coli Isolates from the United States in Relation to Clonal Background, Resistance Genes, Coresistance, and Region
Authors: Johnston Brian D. , Thuras Paul , Porter Stephen B. , Anacker Melissa , VonBank Brittany , Vagnone Paula Snippes , Witwer Medora , Castanheira Mariana , Johnson James R.
Published: March 2020

Imipenem-relebactam (I-R) is a recently developed carbapenem–beta-lactamase inhibitor combination agent that can overcome carbapenem resistance, which has now emerged in
Escherichia coli
, including sequence type 131 (ST131) and its fluoroquinolone-resistant
H
30R subclone, the leading cause of extraintestinal
E. coli
infections globally. To clarify the likely utility of I-R for carbapenem-resistant (CR)
E. coli
infections in the United States, we characterized 203 recent CR clinical
E. coli
isolates from across the United States (years 2002 to 2017) for phylogroup, clonal group (including ST131,
H
30R, and the CTX-M-15-associated
H
30Rx subset within
H
30R), relevant beta-lactamase genes, and broth microdilution MICs for I-R and 11 comparator agents.
Inactivation of the Levansucrase Gene in Paenibacillus polymyxa DSM 365 Diminishes Exopolysaccharide Biosynthesis during 2,3-Butanediol Fermentation
Authors: Okonkwo Christopher Chukwudi , Ujor Victor , Cornish Katrina , Ezeji Thaddeus Chukwuemeka
Published: March 2020

Given the current barrage of attention and research investments toward the production of next-generation fuels and chemicals, of which 2,3-butanediol (2,3-BD) produced by nonpathogenic
Paenibacillus
species is perhaps one of the most vigorously pursued, tools for engineering
Paenibacillus
species are intensely sought after. Exopolysaccharide (EPS) production during 2,3-BD fermentation constitutes a problem during downstream processing. Specifically, EPS negatively impacts 2,3-BD separation from the fermentation broth, thereby increasing the overall cost of 2,3-BD production. The results presented here demonstrate that inactivation of the levansucrase gene in
P. polymyxa
leads to diminished EPS accumulation. Additionally, a new method for an EPS assay and a simple protocol employing protoplasts for enhanced transformation of
P. polymyxa
were developed. Overall, although our study shows that levan is not the only EPS produced by
P. polymyxa
, it represents a significant first step toward developing cost-effective 2,3-BD fermentation devoid of EPS-associated complications during downstream processing.