bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vicariance and dispersal in southern hemisphere freshwater fish clades: a palaeontological perspective
Authors: Capobianco Alessio , Friedman Matt
Published: October 2018

Widespread fish clades that occur mainly or exclusively in fresh water represent a key target of biogeographical investigation due to limited potential for crossing marine barriers. Timescales for the origin and diversification of these groups are crucial tests of vicariant scenarios in which continental break‐ups shaped modern geographic distributions. Evolutionary chronologies are commonly estimated through node‐based palaeontological calibration of molecular phylogenies, but this approach ignores most of the temporal information encoded in the known fossil record of a given taxon. Here, we review the fossil record of freshwater fish clades with a distribution encompassing disjunct landmasses in the southern hemisphere. Palaeontologically derived temporal and geographic data were used to infer the plausible biogeographic processes that shaped the distribution of these clades. For seven extant clades with a relatively well‐known fossil record, we used the stratigraphic distribution of their fossils to estimate confidence intervals on their times of origin. To do this, we employed a Bayesian framework that considers non‐uniform preservation potential of freshwater fish fossils through time, as well as uncertainty in the absolute age of fossil horizons. We provide the following estimates for the origin times of these clades: Lepidosireniformes [125–95 million years ago (Ma)]; total‐group Osteoglossomorpha (207–167 Ma); Characiformes (120–95 Ma; a younger estimate of 97–75 Ma when controversial Cenomanian fossils are excluded); Galaxiidae (235–21 Ma); Cyprinodontiformes (80–67 Ma); Channidae (79–43 Ma); Percichthyidae (127–69 Ma). These dates are mostly congruent with published molecular timetree estimates, despite the use of semi‐independent data. Our reassessment of the biogeographic history of southern hemisphere freshwater fishes shows that long‐distance dispersals and regional extinctions can confound and erode pre‐existing vicariance‐driven patterns. It is probable that disjunct distributions in many extant groups result from complex biogeographic processes that took place during the Late Cretaceous and Cenozoic. Although long‐distance dispersals likely shaped the distributions of several freshwater fish clades, their exact mechanisms and their impact on broader macroevolutionary and ecological dynamics are still unclear and require further investigation.
The role of storytelling in the innovation process
Authors: Sergeeva Natalya , Trifilova Anna
Published: October 2018

In this article we explore a key challenge in the innovation process around how an innovation might be articulated and communicated in organizations. Articulating innovative ideas, refining them, drawing others into the vision and gaining their support is a key part of this process. It is essentially a process of “storytelling”— constructing and sharing stories that reflect on personal experiences and involvement in the innovation process. This paper is based on managers' own perceptions about storytelling throughout the innovation process. Twenty‐nine semi‐structured interviews were conducted with innovation managers and other senior managers from UK construction/infrastructure project‐based firms. The findings demonstrate that storytelling is essential for presenting innovative ideas and getting interest and support from others. It also plays a key role in motivating organizational members to innovate, and in promoting innovation success stories more widely. It is through storytelling that the image of firms as being and becoming “innovative” is constructed.
The synergistic anticancer effect of formosanin C and polyphyllin VII based on caspase‐mediated cleavage of Beclin1 inhibiting autophagy and promoting apoptosis
Authors: Cui Jingxia , Man Shuli , Cui Nina , Yang Li , Guo Qianbei , Ma Long , Gao Wenyuan
Published: October 2018

Objectives

Drug combination has a promising and potential development prospect in the treatment of various cancers. The objective of this study is to investigate the synergistic mechanisms of polyphyllin VII (PVII) and formosanin C (FC) in lung cancer.

Materials and methods

The combination of FC and PVII influenced on the apoptosis, autophagy, and the relative signalling pathways were analysed in lung cancer cells.

Results

The combination of FC and PVII demonstrated a concentration‐ dependent growth inhibition in human lung cancer cells. The combination index (CI) obtained from four lung cancer cells was smaller than 1. This synergistic antitumour effect was based on the increase of their single proapoptotic effect but inhibiting FC‐induced autophagy in NCI‐H460 cells. FC and PVII activated proapoptotic elements like cleaved‐caspase‐3, ‐8, and ‐9 to induce Beclin1 cleaved into Beclin1‐C which suppressed FC‐triggered autophagy and enhanced apoptosis.

Conclusions

Formosanin C and PVII showed a synergistic antitumour effect on lung cancer cells. The findings would provide the foundation for the use of combination drugs in the future.
Islam and the Middle East in Texas Textbooks
Authors: Balcı Tamer
Published: October 2018

This article covers how the history of Islam and the Middle East is covered in the latest K‐12 Texas textbooks. The study examines three world histories, four world cultures and geography and six American history textbooks published by major publishers. This article demonstrates that Islamophobic attempts to present Islam as a violent religion has been successful in Texas textbooks. On the other hand, the “Islam spread by sword” narrative is contradicted by the same textbooks with a recognition of non‐Muslim communities that have lived in the Islamic world throughout Islamic history. The study aims to guide publishers and educators before the next cycle of textbook renewal is initiated in 2019–2010.
Spontaneous rupture of right aortic sinus of Valsalva leading to massive cystic dissection of interventricular septum and complete heart block
Authors: Fennich Hala , Doghmi Nawal , Rim Fagouri , Belhaj Saad , Cheikhi Fatima , Cherti Mohamed
Published: October 2018

The interventricular septal dissection is an uncommon, and is occasionally associated with sinus of Valsalva aneurysm. A spontaneous dissection with a normal sinus of Valsalva is extremely rare and is mostly a result of a congenital defect. We report the case of a 23‐year‐old male admitted for complete heart block and presenting as an incidental finding during the TTE multiple and huge cystic‐like mass in the interventricular septum (IVS) which is the TTE characteristic of IVS dissection. Most patients remain asymptomatic until the anatomical and hemodynamic changes lead to complications like: severe aortic regurgitation with heart failure and conduction abnormalities. Although transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) has been the first‐line imaging modality for such findings, cardiac computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging have been increasingly used as supplemental or confirmatory tests. The imaging modalities showed a perforation of right sinus of Valsalva causing the expansion of the dissection to the apex. The patient underwent surgical repair with satisfying results. In conclusion, we report an extremely rare clinical case of spontaneous dissection of the interventricular septum using multiple imaging techniques and with a successful surgery.
Severe mitral stenosis secondary to eosinophilic granulomatosis resolving after pharmacological treatment
Authors: Szczerba Ewa , Kowalik Robert , Gorska Katarzyna , Mierzejewski Michal , Slowikowska Anna , Bednarczyk Tomasz , Marchel Michal , Krenke Rafal , Opolski Grzegorz
Published: October 2018

We present a case of 44‐year‐old woman who underwent effective pharmacological treatment of severe mitral stenosis. The patient was hospitalized due to rapidly progressive dyspnea. Her medical history included asthma, perennial rhinitis, and nasal polyps. Echocardiography showed a mass of the left ventricle involving the mitral valve; cardiac MRI suggested acute endocarditis. Severe peripheral blood eosinophilia was found. Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis was diagnosed; treatment with prednisone and cyclophosphamide was started. Despite the clinical improvement, severe mitral stenosis persisted, surgical treatment was planned. However, evaluation after 6 cycles of cyclophosphamide pulse therapy revealed a significant regression of the valvular disease.
Assessment of fluid responsiveness by inferior vena cava diameter variation in post‐pneumonectomy patients
Authors: Wang Yan , Jiang Yinghou , Wu Hongning , Wang Runfeng , Wang Ying , Du Cheng
Published: October 2018

Aim

First, the inferior vena cava dilatation index (DIVC) was measured by ultrasound, and then the reliability of DIVC as an indicator to predict volume responsiveness in patients undergoing mechanical ventilation after pneumonectomy was evaluated.

Methods

Pulse indicator continuous cardiac output (Picco) as gold standard was performed to sedated mechanically ventilated post‐pneumonectomy patients in intensive care unit of Nanjing Thoracic Hospital from August 2014 to December 2016. Meanwhile, ultrasound measurement to inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter at the end inspiration (Dmax) and the end of expiration (Dmin) was performed. DIVC = (Dmax − Dmin)/Dmin. Above values were recorded at baseline and then after fluid resuscitation challenge (7 mL/kg hydroxyethyl starch). An increase in cardiac index of more than 15% was used as the standard for fluid responsiveness. Patients were divided into responsive group and non‐responsive group. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was then used to determine the sensitivity and specificity of DIVC in predicting fluid responsiveness after pneumonectomy.

Results

Eighteen patients were enrolled. 10 patients were divided into responsive group and eight in non‐responsive group. DIVC in responsive group was significantly higher than in non‐responsive group (P < 0.01). By setting DIVC ≥ 15% as a measure of fluid responsiveness, sensitivity was 81.8% and specificity was 85.7%.

Conclusion

DIVC is a reliable indicator of capacity responsiveness in mechanically ventilated post‐pneumonectomy patients.
Use of team‐based learning pedagogy for predoctoral teaching and learning
Authors: Park Sang E. , Salihoglu‐Yener Esra , Fazio Sara B.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to describe the development and implementation of a Team‐based Learning (TBL) educational model in a predoctoral education course to assess its effectiveness in promoting student learning as measured by knowledge acquisition and student satisfaction.

Methods

An interprofessional education course used the TBL structure for the second‐year dental students, in which students had an opportunity to first work on the questions individually and then in groups. Each instruction session began with a readiness assurance test (RAT), which students were asked to complete in two formats: each student answered on their own, then each team worked on the same questions to arrive at a consensus decision followed by a team‐based application exercise.

Results

A significant difference existed in which team scores were higher than individual scores and on average, the teams scored higher than when students worked alone. Student feedback showed a strong preference of TBL over the traditional lecture format. Students found that the sessions helped them to understand the clinical cases from the perspective of other health care fields in this pedagogical approach.

Conclusion

The TBL methods facilitated an interactive learning environment to promote student‐centred learning in a predoctoral education course and the teams performed better in correct evaluation compared with the individual students.
Purinergic modulation of neuronal activity in the rat prepositus hypoglossi nucleus
Authors: Sugioka Miho , Saito Yasuhiko
Published: October 2018

In the nervous system, adenosine 5′‐trisphosphate (ATP) functions as a neurotransmitter and binds to ionotropic P2X receptors and metabotropic P2Y receptors. Although ATP receptors are expressed in the prepositus hypoglossi nucleus (PHN), which is a brainstem structure involved in controlling horizontal gaze, it is unclear whether ATP indeed affects the activity of PHN neurons. In this study, we investigated the effects of ATP on spontaneous firing of PHN neurons using whole‐cell recordings in rat brainstem slices. Bath application of ATP increased or decreased the spontaneous firing rate of the neurons in a dose‐dependent manner, indicating that ATP indeed affects PHN neuronal activity. To clarify the mechanisms of the ATP effects, we investigated the current responses of PHN neurons to a local application of ATP. The ATP application induced a fast inward (FI) current, a slow inward (SI) current, and/or a slow outward (SO) current in the neurons. The agonists of P2X and P2Y receptors induced FI and SI currents, respectively. The SO currents were not induced by the ATP agonists but were induced by adenosine, which may be extracellularly converted from ATP by ectonucleotidases. An antagonist of adenosine P1 (A1) receptors abolished the adenosine‐induced SO currents and bath application of adenosine decreased the spontaneous firing rate of all PHN neurons tested. These results indicate that PHN neurons express functional purinoceptors and show that the FI, SI, and SO currents were mediated via P2X, P2Y, and A1 receptors, respectively.
Epilepsy surgery in Panama: Establishment of a successful hybrid program as a model for small middle‐income countries
Authors: Kuzniecky Ruben , Baez Carmen , Aranda Guzmán , Hidalgo Eveline Teresa , Grover Ameeta , Orillac Cordelia , Zelenka Yvonne , Weiner Howard L.
Published: October 2018

Objective

The majority of the 65 million people worldwide with epilepsy live in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Many of these countries have inadequate resources to serve the large patient population affected by epilepsy. Panama is a middle‐income country that currently has only 2 facilities that can provide basic epilepsy services and no epilepsy surgery services. To address this need, a group of Panamanian physicians partnered with U.S. epilepsy health care providers to test a hybrid epilepsy surgery program, combining resources and expertise.

Methods

From 2011 to 2017, a multidisciplinary team of neurologists, neurosurgeons, and an electroencephalography (EEG) technician from the United States traveled to Panama 6 times and, in collaboration with the local team, performed surgical procedures for intractable epilepsy at the national children's hospital. Resective surgeries were performed with intraoperative electrocorticography and/or implantation of subdural and depth electrodes and extra‐operative monitoring. Cost was calculated using Panama government data.

Results

Twenty‐seven children with intractable epilepsy were surgically treated. Fifteen children are seizure‐free (Engle class I), 11 children are Engel II, and one child is Engel III. No major morbidity or mortality occurred, with only one postoperative infection. The average cost of treatment was calculated at $9850 per patient.

Significance

This program is a model for creating a multinational and multi‐institutional collaboration to provide surgical epilepsy treatment in a middle‐income country without an adequate infrastructure. To be successful, this collaboration needed to address medical, technical, and cultural challenges. This partnership helps to alleviate some of the present need for surgical epilepsy services while laying the groundwork for the development of a future local independent epilepsy surgery program.
MAGP‐1 and fibronectin control EGFL7 functions by driving its deposition into distinct endothelial extracellular matrix locations
Authors: Villain Gaëlle , Lelievre Etienne , Broekelmann Tom , Gayet Odile , Havet Chantal , Werkmeister Elisabeth , Mecham Robert , Dusetti Nelson , Soncin Fabrice , Mattot Virginie
Published: October 2018

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is essential to provide mechanical support to tissues but is also a bioactive edifice which controls cell behavior. Cell signaling generated by ECM components through integrin‐mediated contacts, modulates cell biological activity. In addition, by sequestrating or releasing growth factors, the ECM is an active player of physiological and pathological processes such as vascular development. EGFL7 is mainly expressed during blood vessel development and is deposited in the ECM after secretion by endothelial cells. While EGFL7 is known to control various endothelial cell molecular mechanisms [i.e., the repression of endothelial‐derived lysyl oxidase (LOX) enzyme, the regulation of the Notch pathway, and the expression of leukocyte adhesion molecules and of RHOA by endothelial cells], it is not established whether EGFL7 functions when bound to the ECM. Here, we show that microfibrillar‐associated glycoprotein‐1 (MAGP‐1) and fibronectin drive the deposition of EGFL7 into both fibers and individual aggregates in endothelial ECM. Although EGFL7 does not need to be docked into the ECM to control endothelial adhesion molecule expression, the ECM accumulation of EGFL7 is required for its regulation of LOX activity and of HEY2 expression along the Notch pathway. The interaction of EGFL7 with MAGP‐1 is necessary for LOX activity repression by EGFL7 while it does not participate in the control of the Notch pathway by this protein. Altogether, this study highlights the roles played by EGFL7 in controlling various endothelial molecular mechanisms upon its localization and shows how the ECM can modulate its functions.
Improvement of the yield and flavour quality of sesame oil from aqueous extraction process by moisture conditioning before roasting
Authors: Xu Tao , Yang Ruijin , Hua Xiao , Zhao Wei , Tong Yanjun , Zhang Wenbin
Published: October 2018

This study was to investigate the effect of conditioning and heat‐treatments on the yield and quality of sesame oil. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to explore the microstructure of sesame cotyledon cells. It was found that cell microstructure and oil body membrane of sesame seeds underwent high‐pressure steaming pretreatment (HPS), roasting pretreatment (RP), moisture‐conditioning plus roasting pretreatment (MRP) was all damaged. All these thermal treatments, especially MRP, contributing to increased oil yield from 45.85 (untreated) to 91.69%. Furthermore, RP or MRP yielded a higher content of sesamol than untreated sesame, whereas sesamin and seasamolin content, fatty acid composition, acid value and peroxide value showed no significant changes (P > 0.05) between heat‐treatments. MRP increased the type and content of volatile compounds, which was beneficial to the strong nut‐like aroma. Additionally, MRP had a positive effect on oxidative oil stability (induction time of 10.80 h) with respect to untreated oil (7.82 h).
Nanoplastic removal function and the mechanical nature of colloidal silica slurry polishing
Authors: Shen Nan , Feigenbaum Eyal , Suratwala Tayyab , Steele William , Wong Lana , Feit Michael D. , Miller Phil E.
Published: October 2018

The nanomechanical deformations on a broad range of optical material surfaces (single crystals of Al2O3 [sapphire], SiC, Y3Al5O12 [YAG], CaF2, and LiB3O5 [LBO]; a SiO2–Al2O3–P2O5–Li2O glass‐ceramics [Zerodur]; and glasses of SiO2:TiO2 [ULE], SiO2 [fused silica], and P2O5–Al2O3–K2O–BaO [Phosphate]) near the elastic‐plastic load boundary have been measured by nanoindentation and nanoscratching to mimic the nanoplastic removal caused by a single slurry particle during polishing. Nanoindenation in air was performed to determine the workpiece hardness at various loads using a commercial nanoindenter with a Berkovich tip. Similarly, an atomic force microscope (AFM) with a stiff diamond coated tip (150 nm radius) was used to produce nanoplastic scratches in air and aqueous environments over a range of applied loads (~20‐170 μN). The resulting nanoplastic deformation of the nanoscratches were used to calculate the removal function (i.e., depth per pass) which ranged from 0.18 to 3.6 nm per pass for these materials. A linear correlation between the nanoplastic removal function and the polishing rate (using a fixed polishing process with colloidal silica slurry on a polyurethane pad) of these materials was observed implying that: (a) the polishing mechanism using colloidal silica slurry can be dominated by mechanical rather than chemical interactions; and (b) the nanoplastic removal function, as opposed to interface particle interactions, is the controlling factor for the polishing material removal rate. Furthermore, this correlation is consistent with the Ensemble Hertzian Multi‐Gap (EHMG) microscopic material removal rate model described previously. The nanoplastic removal depth was also found to correlate to the measured nanoindentation hardness (H1) of the optical material, scaling as H1−3.5. Two‐dimensional (2D) finite element analysis simulations of nanoindentation showed a similar nonlinear dependence of plastic deformation with the workpiece material hardness. The findings of this study are used to determine an effective Preston coefficient for the material removal rate expression and enhance the predictive nature of the nanoplastic polishing rate for various materials utilizing their material properties.
Niche differentiation among clones in asexual grass thrips
Authors: van der Kooi Casper J. , Ghali Karim , Amptmeijer David , Schwander Tanja
Published: October 2018

Many asexual animal populations comprise a mixture of genetically different lineages, but to what degree this genetic diversity leads to ecological differences remains often unknown. Here, we test whether genetically different clonal lineages of Aptinothrips grass thrips differ in performance on a range of plants used as hosts in natural populations. We find a clear clone‐by‐plant species interactive effect on reproductive output, meaning that clonal lineages perform differently on different plant species and thus are characterized by disparate ecological niches. This implies that local clonal diversities can be driven and maintained by frequency‐dependent selection and that resource heterogeneity can generate diverse clone assemblies.
Polymorphisms of the vitamin D receptor gene (FOKI,CDX2, and GATA) and susceptibility to chronic periodontitis in diabetic and non‐diabetic individuals: A case‐control study
Authors: Pinho Roberto C. M. , Dias Rayanne S. A. de M. , Bandeira Francisco , Farias Rodrigues Jessyca K. , da Silva Ronaldo C. , Crovella Sergio , dos Santos Erinaldo U. D. , Cimões Renata
Published: October 2018

Aim

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the distribution of single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) (variants FOKI [rs2228570], CDX2 [rs47908762], and GATA [rs4516035]) in the vitamin D receptor in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic periodontitis (DM2 + CP), CP alone, and healthy individuals, and to investigate the relationship with susceptibility to CP.

Methods

In total, 280 individuals (116 with DM2 + CP, 95 with CP alone, and 69 healthy individuals) were genotyped using real‐time polymerase chain reaction with allele‐specific probes. Significant differences (P < .05) were found among the groups with regard to socio‐epidemiological variables (sex, marital status, income, smoking habit, and schooling) and clinical‐epidemiological variables (age, number of teeth, probing depth, clinical attachment loss, gingival bleeding index, and visible plaque index).

Results

The C allele was significantly more frequent among the healthy individuals (34.8%) than those with DM2 + CP (23.5%) (odds ratio [OR] = .58, 95% confidence interval [CI]: . 35‐.94, P = .022). Likewise, the CC allele was significantly more frequent among healthy individuals (11.6%) than those with DM2 + CP (2.6%) (OR = .17, 95% CI: .03‐.79, P = .015).

Conclusion

The results suggest that the presence of these variants could lead to a lower susceptibility to DM2 and CP. No other significant differences among groups were found for the other SNP investigated.
The Sociomaterial Negotiation of Social Entrepreneurs’ Meaningful Work
Authors: Symon Gillian , Whiting Rebecca
Published: October 2018

This research examines the role of digital technology in the constitution of meaningful work. Adopting a sociomaterial perspective, we argue that meaningful work emerges as an outcome of a complex negotiation between individuals and their digital devices. This process was explored through video diaries and interviews with social entrepreneurs, capturing moments of their everyday meaning‐making and encouraging reflexivity. Accounting for their sociomaterial practice led participants to reaffirm their work as uniquely meaningful, produce more nuanced accounts of meaningfulness and/or make pragmatic adjustments to their meaning making. Whilst authenticity was a key meta‐narrative in these accounts, it also produced tensional knots which, in their unravelling, required the adoption of more practicable meanings of work. The paper concludes by urging scholars to de‐centre the human from their analysis to provide a more complete account of meaningful work.
The Five Paradoxes of Meaningful Work: Introduction to the special Issue ‘Meaningful Work: Prospects for the 21st Century’
Authors: Bailey Catherine , Lips‐Wiersma Marjolein , Madden Adrian , Yeoman Ruth , Thompson Marc , Chalofsky Neal
Published: October 2018

In this introduction to the Journal of Management Studies Special Issue on Meaningful Work, we explain the imperative for a deeper understanding of meaningfulness within the context of the current sociopolitical environment, coupled with the growing use of organizational strategies aimed at ‘managing the soul’. Meaningful work remains a contested topic that has been the subject of attention in a wide range of disciplines. The focus of this Special Issue is the advancement of theory and evidence about the nature, causes, consequences, and processes of meaningful work. We summarize the contributions of each of the seven articles that comprise the Special Issue and, in particular, note their methodological and theoretical plurality. In conclusion, we set forth a future research agenda based on five fundamental paradoxes of meaningful work.
Adolescent Profiles of Marginalization and Connection at School: Relations With Academics and Mental Health
Authors: Polk Whitney , Hill Nancy E. , Price Maggi , Liang Belle , Perella John , Savitz‐Romer Mandy
Published: October 2018

School context serves as a testing ground for exploring social relationships and satisfying needs for connection and affirmation, but often includes feelings of rejection. With a diverse high school sample (n = 645; 55% female; 61% White, 18% African American, 10% Latino, 10% Asian American, 1% Multiracial), patterns of experiences with marginalization and connection were identified and their associations with achievement and mental health examined. Using two‐step cluster analysis, three clusters were identified:above the fray,exposed and protected, andtargeted and unsupported. Ethnic/racial background was not related to cluster membership. Except for gender and well‐being, associations between cluster membership and outcomes were similar across demographic background. The above the fray and the exposed and protected clusters were associated with better outcomes.
Orexin receptor antagonists for the treatment of insomnia and potential treatment of other neuropsychiatric indications
Authors: Herring W. Joseph , Roth Thomas , Krystal Andrew D. , Michelson David
Published: October 2018

In this review, we outline the role of orexin receptor antagonists in disorders of sleep/wake and other potential neuropsychiatric conditions, with a focus on suvorexant, which is currently the only approved agent in this class. The efficacy of suvorexant was established in Phase 2–3 trials with treatment durations ranging from 1 to 12 months in patients with insomnia. Suvorexant is effective at improving sleep assessed by patient self‐report and by polysomnography, with generally little effect on underlying sleep architecture. The main side‐effect is next day somnolence. With the growing realization of the important connections between sleep and other disorders, studies are ongoing to explore this novel mechanism in other disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and depression.
Social Tensions in a Growing China
Authors: Kakwani Nanak , Li Shi , Wang Xiaobing , Wu Shanshan
Published: October 2018

In spite of fast growth and increasing average income levels, China’s development has been uneven across various sectors and regions. This uneven development has reduced the life satisfaction of many people and has caused social tensions. Using four rounds of the Chinese Household Income Project data, this paper investigates social tensions caused by inequality, poverty and polarization across rural and urban areas, and across the Eastern, Central and Western regions, and between the emerging super provinces/megacities and the rest. It shows that although tensions have been significantly alleviated by fast economic growth, the impact of growth imbalances is still very severe. China should focus on more balanced growth in addition to a high rate of growth.
Molecular determinants of microvascular dysfunction in hypertensive pregnancy and preeclampsia
Authors: Yu Wentao , Gao Wei , Rong Dan , Wu Zhixian , Khalil Raouf A.
Published: October 2018

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy‐related disorder characterized by hypertension and often fetal intrauterine growth restriction, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Defective placentation and apoptosis of invasive cytotrophoblasts cause inadequate remodeling of spiral arteries, placental ischemia, and reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP).RUPPcauses imbalance between the anti‐angiogenic factors soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 and soluble endoglin and the pro‐angiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor and placental growth factor, and stimulates the release of proinflammatory cytokines, hypoxia‐inducible factor, reactive oxygen species, and angiotensinAT1receptor agonistic autoantibodies. These circulating factors target the vascular endothelium, smooth muscle and various components of the extracellular matrix. Generalized endotheliosis in systemic, renal, cerebral, and hepatic vessels causes decreases in endothelium‐derived vasodilators such as nitric oxide, prostacyclin and hyperpolarization factor, and increases in vasoconstrictors such as endothelin‐1 and thromboxane A2. Enhanced mechanisms of vascular smooth muscle contraction, such as intracellular Ca2+, protein kinase C, and Rho‐kinase cause further increases in vasoconstriction. Changes in matrix metalloproteinases and extracellular matrix cause inadequate vascular remodeling and increased arterial stiffening, leading to further increases in vascular resistance and hypertension. Therapeutic options are currently limited, but understanding the molecular determinants of microvascular dysfunction could help in the design of new approaches for the prediction and management of preeclampsia.
Heteroresistance to the model antimicrobial peptide polymyxin B in the emerging Neisseria meningitidis lineage 11.2 urethritis clade: mutations in the pilMNOPQ operon
Authors: Tzeng Yih‐Ling , Berman Zachary , Toh Evelyn , Bazan Jose A. , Turner Abigail Norris , Retchless Adam C. , Wang Xin , Nelson David E. , Stephens David S.
Published: October 2018

Clusters of Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) urethritis among primarily heterosexual males in multiple US cities have been attributed to a unique non‐encapsulated meningococcal clade (the US Nm urethritis clade, US_NmUC) within the hypervirulent clonal complex 11. Resistance to antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) is a key feature of urogenital pathogenesis of the closely related species, Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The US_NmUC isolates were found to be highly resistant to the model AMP, polymyxin B (PmB, MICs 64–256 µg ml–1). The isolates also demonstrated stable subpopulations of heteroresistant colonies that showed near total resistant to PmB (MICs 384–1024 µg ml–1) and colistin (MIC 256 µg ml–1) as well as enhanced LL‐37 resistance. This is the first observation of heteroresistance in N. meningitidis. Consistent with previous findings, overall PmB resistance in US_NmUC isolates was due to active Mtr efflux and LptA‐mediated lipid A modification. However, whole genome sequencing, variant analyses and directed mutagenesis revealed that the heteroresistance phenotypes and very high‐level AMP resistance were the result of point mutations and IS1655 element movement in the pilMNOPQ operon, encoding the type IV pilin biogenesis apparatus. Cross‐resistance to other classes of antibiotics was also observed in the heteroresistant colonies. High‐level resistance to AMPs may contribute to the pathogenesis of US_NmUC.
Invasive mucormycosis in children with cancer: A retrospective study from the Infection Working Group of Italian Pediatric Hematology Oncology Association
Authors: Muggeo Paola , Calore Elisabetta , Decembrino Nunzia , Frenos Stefano , De Leonardis Francesco , Colombini Antonella , Petruzziello Fara , Perruccio Katia , Berger Massimo , Burnelli Roberta , Zanazzo Giulio A. , Santoro Nicola , Cesaro Simone
Published: October 2018

Background

Invasive mucormycosis is a rare but frequently fatal fungal disease. The acute and rapidly progressive evolution causes unfavourable outcome in 22%‐59% of patients and its treatment represents a clinical challenge, especially in immunocompromised patients. Current data in paediatric oncological patients are limited.

Objectives

The infection Working Group of the Italian Association of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology (AIEOP) analysed the episodes of invasive mucormycosis occurred between 2009 and 2016.

Patients

Fifteen cases of proven mucormycosis (male/female 8/7; median age 14.1 years, range 7.7‐18.6) were reported after chemotherapy for acute leukaemia and lymphoma (12) and allogeneic stem cell transplantation (3). The aetiology was Rhizopus oryzae 4, Lichtheimia corymbifera 3 and Mucor spp. 8.

Results

Paranasal sinus was the primary site of infection in 14/15 patients combined with orbital involvement (9), central nervous system (8), lung (4), thyroid gland and kidney (1). All patients received liposomal Amphotericin B (L‐AmB) (3‐10 mg/kg), with surgical debridement in 14/15 cases. Eleven patients received maintenance treatment with posaconazole (9) or isavuconazole (2). Eight out of fifteen patients (53.3%) died, after 3‐6 months.

Conclusions

Mucormycosis involved mainly the sinu‐orbital site and affected children >10 years. Despite aggressive treatment with high‐dose L‐AmB and timely surgical debridement, the mortality rate remains still high.
Natural variation in a molybdate transporter controls grain molybdenum concentration in rice
Authors: Huang Xin‐Yuan , Liu Huan , Zhu Yu‐Fei , Pinson Shannon R. M. , Lin Hong‐Xuan , Guerinot Mary Lou , Zhao Fang‐Jie , Salt David E.
Published: October 2018

Molybdenum (Mo) is an essential micronutrient for most living organisms, including humans. Cereals such as rice (Oryza sativa) are the major dietary source of Mo. However, little is known about the genetic basis of the variation in Mo content in rice grain.

We mapped a quantitative trait locus (QTL) qGMo8 that controls Mo accumulation in rice grain by using a recombinant inbred line population and a backcross introgression line population.

We identified a molybdate transporter, OsMOT1;1, as the causal gene for this QTL. OsMOT1;1 exhibits transport activity for molybdate, but not sulfate, when heterogeneously expressed in yeast cells. OsMOT1;1 is mainly expressed in roots and is involved in the uptake and translocation of molybdate under molybdate‐limited condition. Knockdown of OsMOT1;1 results in less Mo being translocated to shoots, lower Mo concentration in grains and higher sensitivity to Mo deficiency. We reveal that the natural variation of Mo concentration in rice grains is attributed to the variable expression of OsMOT1;1 due to sequence variation in its promoter.

Identification of natural allelic variation in OsMOT1;1 may facilitate the development of rice varieties with Mo‐enriched grain for dietary needs and improve Mo nutrition of rice on Mo‐deficient soils.
Prenatal high molecular weight phthalates and bisphenol A, and childhood respiratory and allergic outcomes
Authors: Berger Kimberly , Eskenazi Brenda , Balmes John , Kogut Katie , Holland Nina , Calafat Antonia M. , Harley Kim G.
Published: October 2018

Background

The prevalence of asthma and allergy is increasing in US children. In utero exposure to chemicals used in personal care products and plastics may contribute to increase in these diseases.

Methods

We quantified urinary concentrations of eight phthalate metabolites and bisphenol A in mothers twice during pregnancy in 1999‐2000 in Salinas, California. We assessed probable asthma, aeroallergies, eczema, and spirometry in their children at age 7, and measured T helper 1 and T helper 2 cells in blood at ages 2, 5, and 7 (N = 392). We employed Bayesian model averaging to select confounders from additional biomarkers measured in this population and controlled for them in logistic and linear regressions.

Results

Monocarboxyisooctyl phthalate was associated with increased odds for probable asthma (odds ratio: 1.54, 95% CI: 1.12, 2.12), and with lower forced expiratory volume in one second (β: −0.09 L, 95% CI: −0.15, −0.03) and forced expiratory flow from 25% to 75% of forced vital capacity (β: −7.06 L/s, 95% CI: −11.04, −2.90). Several other associations were attenuated in final models that controlled for additional biomarkers.

Conclusion

Monocarboxyisooctyl phthalate was associated with lower respiratory health after controlling for related chemical exposure, which suggests that confounding by multiple chemical exposures should be considered in future research.
Outcome of children with rhinovirus detection prior to allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant
Authors: Mowrer Clayton , Lee Brian R. , Goyal Rakesh , Selvarangan Rangaraj , Schuster Jennifer E.
Published: October 2018

Rhinoviruses are commonly detected in symptomatic and asymptomatic children prior to HCT. Unlike pre‐HCT detection of other respiratory viruses, it is not known whether RV detection, with or without clinical symptoms, is associated with worse outcomes in children post‐HCT. In a retrospective study of children undergoing allogeneic HCT from January 2009 to February 2015, 91 children underwent allogeneic HCT, and 62 children had RPP testing within 30 days pre‐HCT. Fifty‐six (90%) children had either no pathogen (n = 34, 55%) or single RV detection (n = 22, 35%), which was the most common pathogen identified. Compared with virus negative children, children with pre‐HCT RV detection were not more likely to require ventilated support and did not have longer length of stay, higher mortality, or less days alive and out of the hospital within the first 100 days post‐HCT. In a secondary analysis of all 56 patients with RPP testing and no pathogen or RV alone detected, the seven children with LRTI had less days alive and out of the hospital within the first 100 days post‐HCT compared with the 49 children who were either asymptomatic or had URTI (10 vs 60 days, P = 0.002). In a bootstrapped regression model, presence of LRTI, not RV detection, was significantly associated with decreased days alive and out of the hospital within the first 100 days post‐HCT. Thus, pre‐HCT detection of RV, without associated LRTI, does not always warrant HCT delay.
Emerging arboviruses and implications for pediatric transplantation: A review
Authors: Freeman Megan Culler , Coyne Carolyn B. , Green Michael , Williams John V. , Silva Laurie A.
Published: October 2018

Recent years have brought a rise in newly emergent viral infections, primarily in the form of previously known arthropod‐transmitted viruses that have increased significantly in both incidence and geographical range. Of particular note are DENV, CHIKV, and ZIKV, which are transmitted mostly by Aedes species of mosquitoes that exhibit a wide and increasing global distribution. Being important pathogens for the general population, these viruses have the potential to be devastating in the international transplant community, with graft rejection and death as possible outcomes of infection. In this review, we discuss the current state of knowledge for these viruses as well as repercussions of infection in the solid organ and HSCT population, with a focus, when possible, on pediatric patients.
Diagnosis of plant diseases using the Nanopore sequencing platform
Authors: Chalupowicz L. , Dombrovsky A. , Gaba V. , Luria N. , Reuven M. , Beerman A. , Lachman O. , Dror O. , Nissan G. , Manulis‐Sasson S.
Published: October 2018

Reliable detection and identification of plant pathogens are essential for disease control strategies. Diagnostic methods commonly used to detect plant pathogens have limitations such as requirement of prior knowledge of the genome sequence, low sensitivity and a restricted ability to detect several pathogens simultaneously. The development of advanced DNA sequencing technologies has enabled determination of total nucleic acid content in biological samples. The possibility of using the single‐molecule sequencing platform of Oxford Nanopore as a general method for diagnosis of plant diseases was examined. It was tested by sequencing DNA or RNA isolated from tissues with symptoms from plants of several families inoculated with known pathogens (e.g. bacteria, viruses, fungi, phytoplasma). Additionally, samples of groups of 200 seeds containing one infected seed of each of two or three pathogens, as well as samples with symptoms but unidentified pathogens were tested. Sequencing results were analysed with Nanopore data analysis tools. In all the inoculated plants, pathogens were identified in real time within 1–2 h of running the Nanopore sequencer and were classified to the species or genus level. DNA sequencing or direct RNA sequencing of samples with unidentified disease agents were validated by conventional diagnostic procedures (e.g. PCR, ELISA, Koch test), which supported the results obtained by Nanopore sequencing. The advantages of this technology include: long read lengths, fast run times, portability, low cost and the possibility of use in every laboratory. This study indicates that adoption of the Nanopore platform will be greatly advantageous for routine laboratory diagnosis.
Association between changes in the use of psychotropic drugs and behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia over 1 year among long‐term care facility residents
Authors: Ozaki Takashi , Katsumata Yuriko , Arai Asuna
Published: October 2018

Aim

Pharmacological treatments are often used in treating the behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in nursing homes, despite the fact that non‐pharmacological treatments are recommended as a first‐line treatment and can provide a suitable alternative. Because the course of BPSD is known to fluctuate depending on individual symptoms over time, the frequencies of drug use and BPSD, as well as their association, should be observed over a longer period. We investigated the association between the changes in psychotropic drug (PD) use and BPSD, focusing on the number of symptoms, severity, and care burden over 1 year among long‐term care facility residents.

Methods

A 1‐year follow‐up study was conducted among older residents with dementia or similar symptoms (n = 312 at baseline; n = 237 at follow‐up) by using a care staff questionnaire in 10 long‐term care facilities in Hokkaido, Japan. Medication use was determined based on prescription information. The brief questionnaire form of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory was used to assess BPSD.

Results

Among residents followed up for 1 year, new users of PD—particularly anxiolytics and hypnotics—had a significantly increased number and severity of BPSD, compared with non‐PD users. Continuing PDs was also related to increased severity over the year. Among residents with any persistent BPSD for 1 year, new use of PDs—particularly anxiolytics and hypnotics—was significantly associated with an increased care burden of BPSD, compared with the non‐use of PDs. The discontinuation of PDs was significantly associated with a decreased care burden, compared with the non‐use of PDs.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that PDs, particularly anxiolytics and hypnotics, may be prescribed carefully in response to exacerbation of BPSD in terms of the number of symptoms, severity, and care burden in long‐term care facilities. Continuous monitoring of PDs use and BPSD is important to effectively address BPSD.
Clinical utility of pulmonary function and blood biomarker measurements
Authors: Vlahos Ross
Published: October 2018

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Taxing and Regulating Vices*
Authors: Immordino Giovanni , Menichini Anna Maria C. , Romano Maria Grazia
Published: October 2018

We study the optimal taxation and regulation of sin goods – goods that are enjoyable to consume but also create future negative health consequences – within a setting in which individuals are time‐inconsistent (and thus consume too much), regulation makes the consumption of sin goods less pleasurable, and taxation involves administrative and compliance costs. In contrast to previous literature, we find that regulation can be beneficial even when corrective taxes are available and individuals are homogeneous. Moreover, despite the inefficiencies associated with the use of both instruments, the consumption of the sin good might fall short of the first best. The results are robust to consumers’ heterogeneity.
A game of faith: Role‐playing games as an active learning strategy for value formation and faith integration in the theological classroom
Authors: Howard Melanie A.
Published: October 2018

Role‐playing games have been a part of scholarly conversations about pedagogy for several decades. However, more work is needed in understanding how gaming pedagogy can best fit with and augment particular disciplines. After providing two examples of role‐playing games that have been used successfully in teaching the New Testament, this article argues that role‐playing games contribute to theological and religious studies classrooms by forming positive values (e.g. openness to multiple viewpoints, civility, and empathy) and assisting students in integrating their faith and learning. Because of the low‐risk settings that games provide, students can practice skills that increase their achievement of learning outcomes and contribute to their value formation and faith formation.
“Make your own religion”: The fictive religion assignment as educational game
Authors: Zeller Benjamin E.
Published: October 2018

This article considers the “create your own religion” or “fictive religion” assignment as a pedagogical tool, contextualizing it within the scholarship of teaching and learning, and positioning it as a tool for broad adoption in a variety of courses. I argue that we ought to conceptualize the fictive religion assignment as an instructional game, and make use of scholarship on teaching through games as a foundation for my analysis. While I offer the example of my own fictive religion assignment as a case study, the overall argument is a theoretical one, namely that the assignment works because of the nature of games.