bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing climate change associated sea‐level rise impacts on sea turtle nesting beaches using drones, photogrammetry and a novel GPS system
Authors: Varela Miguel R. , Patrício Ana R. , Anderson Karen , Broderick Annette C. , DeBell Leon , Hawkes Lucy A. , Tilley Dominic , Snape Robin T. E. , Westoby Matthew J. , Godley Brendan J.
Published: November 2018

Climate change associated sea‐level rise (SLR) is expected to have profound impacts on coastal areas, affecting many species, including sea turtles which depend on these habitats for egg incubation. Being able to accurately model beach topography using digital terrain models (DTMs) is therefore crucial to project SLR impacts and develop effective conservation strategies. Traditional survey methods are typically low‐cost with low accuracy or high‐cost with high accuracy. We present a novel combination of drone‐based photogrammetry and a low‐cost and portable real‐time kinematic (RTK) GPS to create DTMs which are highly accurate (<10 cm error) and visually realistic. This methodology is ideal for surveying coastal sites, can be broadly applied to other species and habitats, and is a relevant tool in supporting the development of Specially Protected Areas. Here, we applied this method as a case‐study to project three SLR scenarios (0.48, 0.63 and 1.20 m) and assess the future vulnerability and viability of a key nesting habitat for sympatric loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and green turtle (Chelonia mydas) at a key rookery in the Mediterranean. We combined the DTM with 5 years of nest survey data describing location and clutch depth, to identify (a) regions with highest nest densities, (b) nest elevation by species and beach, and (c) estimated proportion of nests inundated under each SLR scenario. On average, green turtles nested at higher elevations than loggerheads (1.8 m vs. 1.32 m, respectively). However, because green turtles dig deeper nests than loggerheads (0.76 m vs. 0.50 m, respectively), these were at similar risk of inundation. For a SLR of 1.2 m, we estimated a loss of 67.3% for loggerhead turtle nests and 59.1% for green turtle nests. Existing natural and artificial barriers may affect the ability of these nesting habitats to remain suitable for nesting through beach migration.
Linking a farm model and a location optimization model for evaluating energetic and material straw valorization pathways—A case study in Baden‐Wuerttemberg
Authors: Petig Eckart , Rudi Andreas , Angenendt Elisabeth , Schultmann Frank , Bahrs Enno
Published: November 2018

Diminishing fossil carbon resources, global warming, and increasing material and energy needs urge for the rapid development of a bioeconomy. Biomass feedstock from agro‐industrial value chains provides opportunities for energy and material production, potentially leading to competition with traditional food and feed production. Simulation and optimization models can support the evaluation of biomass value chains and identify bioeconomy development paths, potentials, opportunities, and risks. This study presents the linkage of a farm model (EFEM) and a techno‐economic location optimization model (BIOLOCATE) for evaluating the straw‐to‐energy and the innovative straw‐to‐chemical value chains in the German federal state of Baden‐Wuerttemberg taking into account the spatially distributed and price‐sensitive nature of straw supply. The general results reveal the basic trade‐off between economies of scale of the energy production plants and the biorefineries on the one hand and the feedstock supply costs on the other hand. The results of the farm model highlight the competition for land between traditional agricultural biomass utilization such as food and feed and innovative biomass‐to‐energy and biomass‐to‐chemical value chains. Additionally, farm‐modeling scenarios illustrate the effect of farm specialization and regional differences on straw supply for biomass value chains as well as the effect of high straw prices on crop choices. The technological modeling results show that straw combustion could cover approximately 2% of Baden‐Wuerttemberg's gross electricity consumption and approximately 35% of the district heating consumption. The lignocellulose biorefinery location and size are affected by the price sensitivity of the straw supply and are only profitable for high output prices of organosolv lignin. The location optimization results illustrate that economic and political framework conditions affect the regional distribution of biomass straw conversion plants, thus favoring decentralized value chain structures in contrast to technological economies of scale.
Simple DNA marker‐assisted selection of endophyte (Epichloë uncinata)‐infected festulolium
Authors: Kubota Akito , Akiyama Yukio , Fujimori Masahiro , Tamura Ken–Ichi , Sasaki Tohru , Kasai Eri
Published: November 2018

In this study, to breed endophyte (Epichloë uncinata)‐infected festololium (x Festulolium Aschers.et Graebn.), we backcrossed endophyte‐infected Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) to festulolium. To prevent self‐pollinated plants being mixed with the progeny, we used polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based DNA marker sets distinguishing between Lolium and Festuca species. In the first backcrossing (F1 development), 20 of the 21 progeny plants showed Festuca‐specific band patterns and were endophyte‐infected. We developed six maternal lines (BC1 development) by backcrossing six selected F1 plants. More than 97% of plants from five maternal lines had novel Festuca‐specific band patterns which their maternal parents lacked. However, only 54% plants of the maternal line F1–18 exhibited novel Festuca‐specific band patterns. F1–18 showed Festuca‐specific band patterns with almost all tested DNA marker sets, and its f ratio (the ratio of Festuca‐specific region to the whole genome) was 31.1%, indicating that F1–18 had an almost complete set of the Festuca genome. Because paternal backcrossing festulolium parents were amphidiploids, an f ratio of approximately 25% corresponds to a complete set of the Festuca genome. We found that it was difficult to evaluate BC2 hybridity using the same DNA marker sets because very few DNA markers were distinctive. In total, we bred and selected at least 146 true BC1 hybrids and endophyte‐infected plants using DNA markers.
Evaluation of gastric microbiome and metagenomic function in patients with intestinal metaplasia using 16S rRNA gene sequencing
Authors: Park Chan Hyuk , Lee A‐reum , Lee Yu‐ra , Eun Chang Soo , Lee Sang Kil , Han Dong Soo
Published: November 2018

Background

Despite recent advances in studies on the gastric microbiome, the role of the non‐Helicobacter pylori gastric microbiome in gastric carcinogenesis remains unclear. We evaluated the characteristics of the gastric microbiome and metagenomic functions in patients with IM.

Methods

Participants were classified into six groups according to disease status (chronic superficial gastritis [CSG], intestinal metaplasia [IM], and cancer) and H. pylori‐ infection status (H. pylori‐positive and H. pylori‐negative). The gastric microbiome was analyzed in mucosal tissues at the gastric antrum by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Moreover, we assessed the metagenome including the type IV secretion system (T4SS) gene, as T4SS proteins are essential for transferring CagA from H. pylori- into the human gastric epithelium.

Results

Among the 138 included patients, 48, 9, 23, 14, 12, and 32 were classified into the H. pylori‐negative CSG, H. pylori‐negative IM, H. pylori‐negative cancer, H. pylori‐positive CSG, H. pylori‐positive IM, and H. pylori‐positive cancer groups, respectively. Cyanobacteria were predominant in the H. pylori‐negative CSG group compared to in the H. pylori‐negative IM and H. pylori‐negative cancer groups (H. pylori‐negative CSG vs H. pylori‐negative IM vs H. pylori‐negative cancer: 14.0% vs 4.2% vs 0.04%, P < 0.001). In contrast, Rhizobiales were commonly observed in the H. pylori‐negative IM group (H. pylori‐negative CSG vs H. pylori‐negative IM vs H. pylori‐negative cancer: 1.9% vs 15.4% vs 2.8%, P < 0.001). The relative abundance of Rhizobiales increased as H. pylori‐infected stomachs progressed from gastritis to IM. In the H. pylori‐negative IM group, genes encoding T4SS were prevalent among the metagenome. Additionally, after H. pylori- eradication therapy, the gastric microbiome was similar to the microbiome observed after spontaneous clearance of H. pylori-.

Conclusions

The relative abundance of Rhizobiales was higher in patients with H. pylori‐negative IM than in those with H. pylori‐negative CSG or cancer. Additionally, T4SS genes were highly observed in the metagenome of patients with IM. Highly abundant T4SS proteins in these patients may promote gastric carcinogenesis.
Spectroscopy as a tool to evaluate hair damage and protection
Authors: Pavani C. , Severino D. , Villa dos Santos N. , Chiarelli‐Neto O. , Baptista M.S.
Published: November 2018

Objective

Methods that can be used to analyse hair damage and to support a claim of hair protection are important for the cosmetic industry. There are many approaches available, but they are usually laborious and expensive. The researchers propose a simple fluorescence method that is based upon the emissive properties of damaged hair.

Methods

Hair fluorescence was observed when using both fluorimetry and microscopic procedures. The method was developed by comparing native hair with hair that was damaged by UVA and visible light.

Results

Spectroscopic properties (absorption and emission) of hair in the visible range are presented. The changes in the emissive properties of hair during irradiation were characterized and they were correlated with photobleaching, which is due to the generation of singlet oxygen. Emissions were also obtained in the hair shafts that had been previously treated with chamomile extract and this treatment was able to avoid hair bleaching.

Conclusion

The emissive properties of hair in the visible range can be used as a tool for the evaluation of hair damage and protection. This method can be useful as a tool in order to claim substantiation.
Discussing alcohol in medicines use reviews: experiences of patients in a community pharmacy context
Authors: Jamie Kimberly , Oliver Emily J , Paterson Alistair , Whittlesea Cate
Published: November 2018

Objectives

Although pharmacist-led medicines use reviews (MURs) are effective for medicines management, little is understood about patients’ experiences of alcohol-related advice delivered therein. Sampling a population at high risk for misuse (within an area of socio-economic deprivation), we explored patient experiences of alcohol-related MURs.

Methods

Two focus groups were conducted with patients who had discussed alcohol in an MUR in the preceding 3 months (n = 9). Data were analysed thematically.

Key findings and conclusion

Patients were open to discussing alcohol in the MUR context. The absence of practitioner-patient power asymmetry and pharmacists’ sensitivity to cultural contexts were critical to patient engagement.
Do fluoride toothpastes have similar preventive effect in permanent and primary teeth against erosive tooth wear?
Authors: Assunção Cristiane Meira , Schlueter Nadine , Rodrigues Jonas Almeida , Carvalho Thiago Saads , Lussi Adrian
Published: November 2018

Background

Little is known about fluoride toothpastes effect on primary teeth submitted to erosive tooth wear.

Objectives

To evaluate the preventive effect of different toothpastes on surface loss (SL) after severe erosion/abrasion model and to compare this effect between permanent (PT) and primary teeth (pt).

Design

Enamel samples were randomly divided according toothpastes groups (n = 17). G1: placebo; G2: NaF; G3: AmF‐NaF‐SnCl2 anti‐erosion; G4: SnF2; and G5: NaF anti‐erosion for children. Samples were incubated in artificial saliva (1 hour), submitted to erosive challenge (3 minutes; 1% citric acid; pH3.6; at 25°C) and to toothbrush abrasion (2 minutes slurry immersion; 50 strokes; 200 g) during 30 cycles. Surface loss (μm; mean ± SD) was quantified by contactless profilometry. The effects of the two covariables “tooth” and “toothpaste” were analysed by non‐parametric ANOVA, variables with significant effects were tested by Wilcoxon tests.

Results

pt showed significantly higher surface loss than PT in all groups (P < 0.001). The mean values of SL of each group were: G1 PT 18.18(±3.98), pt 25.65(±9.21); G2 PT 14.76(±2.82), pt 18.11(±3.92); G3 PT 12.62(±5.29), pt 15.61(±6.70); G4 PT 17.12(±2.24), pt 23.41(±7.9); G5 PT 13.24(±1.29), pt 18.28(±8.96).

Conclusions

In permanent teeth, G3 showed the best preventive effect. In primary teeth, G1, G3, and G5 showed similar effect.
Dy3+‐doped Y3Al5O12 transparent ceramic for high efficiency ultraviolet excited single‐phase white‐emitting phosphor
Authors: Zheng Ruilin , Ding Jianyong , Zhang Qi , Li Binbin , Wang Zhongyue , Liu Chunxiao , Lv Peng , Yu Kehan , Wei Wei
Published: November 2018

A kind of Dy‐doped yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) transparent ceramic for ultraviolet excited single‐phase white light‐emitting phosphor was investigated, which has high‐quantum efficiency (45%). The temperature field of Dy:YAG transparent ceramic was calculated by steady‐state thermal simulation. Moreover, by combining with 365 nm light‐emitting diodes (LED) chip directly, the Commission Internationale de l’Éclairage coordinate (x = 0.33, y = 0.35) is close to the standard equal energy white light illumination. The Dy:YAG transparent ceramic, possessing of good optical and thermal properties, is promising for applications in high‐power LEDs devices.
Effect of particle size of as‐milled powders on microstructural and magnetic properties of Y3MnxAl0.8‐xFe4.2O12 ferrites
Authors: Ching‐Chien Huang , Chih‐Chieh Mo , Yung‐Hsiung Hung , Wei‐Zong Zuo , Jing‐Yi Huang , Hsiao‐Hsuan Hsu , Chun‐Hu Cheng
Published: November 2018

Yttrium iron garnet ferrite using the chosen stoichiometry of (Y3)(MnxAl0.8‐xFe4.2)O12 with x = 0.1 and different milling powder sizes were prepared through ball milling for various milling times to study the effect of powder size reduction on the resulting microstructural and magnetic properties. Sintered yttrium iron garnet ferrites were characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The particle size (D50) of as‐milled calcined powder was decreased using ball milling (from 3.682 μm for a 0.5‐hour‐long milling to 1.606 μm for a 2.5‐hour‐long milling). Scanning electron microscopy analyses confirmed that the sintered grain exhibited a crystal size that was increased from initial values (average crystal grain sizes of 3.5 ± 0.1 μm for 0.5 hour of milling) up to 6.2 ± 0.1 μm after 2.5 hour of ball milling and the subsequent sintering process. The same sintered specimen after 2.5 hour of ball milling exhibited an obvious increase in saturation magnetization (4πMs), remanence (Br), and squareness ratio (namely Br/4πMs); it also caused a notable decline in coercivity (Hc) and ferromagnetic resonance line width (∆H), which were attributed to the introduction of a smaller size of calcined powder after milling and subsequently resulted in a larger sintered grain. Furthermore, a sufficient spin‐wave line width (∆Hk) and low insertion loss (|S21|) were obtained for the operation of the microwave device. The aforementioned results are all beneficial to the use of yttrium iron garnet ferrite in microwave applications. A correlation between the calcined powder size after milling, grain crystal size after sintering, and magnetic properties was evident in this study. The strict control of calcined powder size after milling is critical in tailoring suitable magnetic properties for yttrium iron garnet ferrite manufacturing processes.
Approaches to communication assessment with children and adults with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities
Authors: Chadwick Darren , Buell Susan , Goldbart Juliet
Published: November 2018

Communication assessment of people with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD) has seldom been investigated. Here, we explore approaches and decision making in undertaking communication assessments in this group of people. A questionnaire was sent to UK practitioners. The questionnaire elicited information about assessment approaches used and rationales for assessment choices. Fifty‐five speech and language therapists (SLTs) responded. Findings revealed that the Preverbal Communication Schedule, the Affective Communication Assessment and the Checklist of Communication Competence were the most frequently used published assessments. Both published and unpublished assessments were often used. Rationales for assessment choice related to assessment utility, sensitivity to detail and change and their applicability to people with PIMD. Underpinning evidence for assessments was seldom mentioned demonstrating the need for more empirical support for assessments used. Variability in practice and the eclectic use of a range of assessments was evident, underpinned by practice‐focused evidence based on tacit knowledge.
Nest height is affected by lamppost lighting proximity in addition to nestbox size in urban great tits
Authors: Holveck Marie‐Jeanne , Grégoire Arnaud , Doutrelant Claire , Lambrechts Marcel M.
Published: November 2018

Both natural and artificial light have proximate influences on many aspects of avian biology, physiology and behaviour. To date artificial light at night is mostly considered as being a nuisance disrupting for instance sleep and reproduction of diurnal species. Here, we investigate if lamppost night lighting affects cavity‐nesting bird species inside their breeding cavity. Nest height in secondary cavity‐nesting species is the result of trade‐offs between several selective forces. Predation is the prevailing force leading birds to build thin nests to increase the distance towards the entrance hole. A thin nest may also limit artificial light exposure at night. Yet, a minimum level of daylight inside nesting cavities is necessary for adequate visual communication and/or offspring development. Against this background, we hypothesised that avian nest‐building behaviour varies in response to a change in night lighting. We monitored nest height of urban great tits Parus major during six years and found that it varied with artificial light proximity. The birds built thinner nests inside nestboxes of various sizes in response to increasing lamppost night light availability at the nest. In large nestboxes, the nests were also thinner when a lamppost was present in the territory. Whether this relationship between artificial night lighting and nest height reflects a positive or negative effect of urbanisation is discussed in the light of recent experimental studies conducted in rural populations by other research groups.
Effects of freezing method on water distribution, microstructure, and taste active compounds of frozen channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus)
Authors: Xu Yanshun , Song Min , Xia Wenshui , Jiang Qixing
Published: November 2018

Effects of freezing method and frozen storage duration (16 weeks) at −18 °C on water distribution, microstructure, and taste active compounds of channel catfish fillets were investigated. Results showed that freezing and frozen storage resulted in increase in thawing loss, extracellular space, and loss of some taste active free amino acids and inosine monophosphate (IMP). After 16 weeks of storage, the total content of free amino acids decreased to 77.68% (static air freezing), 78.92% (air‐blast freezing), and 83.13% (liquid nitrogen immersion freezing) of their initial value, while IMP decreased by 45.06% (static air freezing), 25.08% (air‐blast freezing), and 24.11% (liquid nitrogen immersion freezing), respectively. Low‐field 1H NMR T2 relaxation data showed an increase in relaxation time of T21 and T22, and a decrease of T21 population with concomitant increase in T22 population during frozen storage. Compared with the other two freezing methods, liquid nitrogen immersion frozen fillets with rapid freezing rate showed a less alteration of quality, exhibiting more compact fiber arrangements, less thawing loss and better retention of taste active compounds.

Practical applications

Frozen storage has been widely used to preserve meat products for a long time, but it inevitably caused undesirable physical, chemical, and structural changes, thus leading to quality loss in texture, flavor, and color. And the degree of quality deterioration of frozen food varies depending on materials, freezing process, and frozen storage conditions. Frozen fillet is one of the main processed fish products. The study of the influence of freezing method and frozen storage on the quality of fillets in terms of water distribution, structural changes, and taste active compounds is of importance to better control the quality of frozen fish products in the industry.
Increased α2δ‐1–NMDA receptor coupling potentiates glutamatergic input to spinal dorsal horn neurons in chemotherapy‐induced neuropathic pain
Authors: Chen Youfang , Chen Shao‐Rui , Chen Hong , Zhang Jixiang , Pan Hui‐Lin
Published: November 2018

Painful peripheral neuropathy is a severe and difficult‐to‐treat neurological complication associated with cancer chemotherapy. Although chemotherapeutic drugs such as paclitaxel are known to cause tonic activation of presynaptic NMDA receptors (NMDARs) to potentiate nociceptive input, the molecular mechanism involved in this effect is unclear. α2δ‐1, commonly known as a voltage‐activated calcium channel subunit, is a newly discovered NMDAR‐interacting protein and plays a critical role in NMDAR‐mediated synaptic plasticity. Here we show that paclitaxel treatment in rats increases the α2δ‐1 expression level in the dorsal root ganglion and spinal cord and the mRNA levels of GluN1, GluN2A, and GluN2B in the spinal cord. Paclitaxel treatment also potentiates the α2δ‐1–NMDAR interaction and synaptic trafficking in the spinal cord. Strikingly, inhibiting α2δ‐1 trafficking with pregabalin, disrupting the α2δ‐1–NMDAR interaction with an α2δ‐1 C‐terminus–interfering peptide, or α2δ‐1 genetic ablation fully reverses paclitaxel treatment‐induced presynaptic NMDAR‐mediated glutamate release from primary afferent terminals to spinal dorsal horn neurons. In addition, intrathecal injection of pregabalin or α2δ‐1 C‐terminus–interfering peptide and α2δ‐1 knockout in mice markedly attenuate paclitaxel‐induced pain hypersensitivity. Our findings indicate that α2δ‐1 is required for paclitaxel‐induced tonic activation of presynaptic NMDARs at the spinal cord level. Targeting α2δ‐1–bound NMDARs, not the physiological α2δ‐1–free NMDARs, may be a new strategy for treating chemotherapy‐induced neuropathic pain.

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Exploring preceptorship programmes: Implications for future design
Authors: Taylor Louise M , Eost‐Telling Charlotte L , Ellerton Annie
Published: November 2018

Aims and objectives

To review and analyse current preceptorship programmes within NHS trusts in the North West of England. To evaluate the pedagogic rigour of the programme and suggest recommendations to inform the future design of preceptorship programmes.

Background

Enhancing the retention of newly qualified staff is of particular importance given that the journey from a new registrant to a competent healthcare professional poses a number of challenges, for both the individual staff member and organisations.

Design

A mixed methods evaluative approach was employed, using online questionnaires and content analysis of preceptorship documentation.

Methods

Forty‐one NHS trusts across the North West region employing newly qualified nurses were invited to participate in the completion of an online questionnaire. In addition, preceptorship programme documentation was requested for inclusion in the content analysis. This study used the SQUIRE (Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence) guidelines.

Results

The response rate for the questionnaire was 56.1% (n = 23). Eighteen trusts (43.9%) forwarded their programme documentation. Findings highlighted the wide variation in preceptorship programmes across the geographical footprint.

Conclusions

There were instances of outstanding preceptorship and preceptorship programmes where there was a clear link between the strategic vision, that is, trust policy, and its delivery, that is, preceptorship offering. There was no one framework that would universally meet the needs of all trusts; yet, there are key components which should be included in all preceptorship programmes. Therefore, we would encourage innovation and creativity in preceptorship programmes, cognisant of local context.

Relevance to clinical practice

The significant shortage of nursing staff in England is an ongoing issue. Recruitment and retention are key to ameliorating the shortfall, and formal support mechanisms like preceptorship, can improve the retention of newly qualified staff. Understanding current preceptorship programmes is an important first step in establishing the fundamental building blocks of successful preceptorship programmes and enabling the sharing of exemplary good practice across organisations.
Welcoming the Unwelcome: How Contact Shapes Contexts of Reception for New Immigrants in Germany and the United States
Authors: Kotzur Patrick F. , Tropp Linda R. , Wagner Ulrich
Published: November 2018

How receiving society members perceive and respond to immigration are crucial factors that shape the context of reception for immigrants coming to a new country. In this paper, we examine these processes through the lens of intergroup contact research, with a focus on relations between immigrants and members of receiving societies, to discern ways in which receiving societies are or are not welcoming toward immigrants. Reviewing recent theorizing with illustrative empirical studies and ongoing programs of research that focus on new immigrants in Germany and the United States, we describe how direct and indirect forms of positive and negative contact can serve either to facilitate or inhibit positive immigrant‐receiving community relations. We also discuss factors that may contribute to the emergence of positive and negative contact experiences between immigrants and receiving society members. We close with a discussion of policy implications.
Immigration and Multiculturalism in Context: A Framework for Psychological Research
Authors: Ward Colleen , Gale Jessica , Staerklé Christian , Stuart Jaimee
Published: November 2018

Multiculturalism is a hotly debated issue in today's global arena. Much of the controversy arises due to different understandings of the term in public and political discourse. We argue that multiculturalism has three core components—diversity, ideology, and policy—and that heterogeneous cultural groups in multicultural societies are ultimately seeking social justice, but in different ways. Moving beyond the broad social science research to the influences and impacts of multiculturalism within psychological studies, we introduce the concept of normative multiculturalism and propose an integrative framework, presenting multiculturalism as a contextual variable and examining its impact in terms of intergroup relations and subjective well‐being. We also consider how multiculturalism at the societal level can be differentially experienced by immigrants and members of the receiving community. Finally, we discuss strategies for maximizing the benefits and minimizing the risks of multiculturalism, reconciling differing justice conceptions, and enhancing positive outcomes for the wider society.
Commuting in Happyville: Taxation with interjurisdictional commuting and pollution
Authors: Legras Sophie
Published: November 2018

This paper presents a spatial model of tax competition in an asymmetric duocentric city with traffic‐related pollution. Jurisdictions differ in productivity and both wage or commuting and head taxes are applied. Residential location is given, but agents can choose their workplace. We show that the incentive for the high productive jurisdiction to export the tax burden by attracting cross‐commuters is reduced by the resulting pollution import; this affects the welfare impacts of tax competition. The possibility that households may misperceive their exposure to pollution is explored and its impact of fiscal competition is analyzed. When households are very optimistic about their exposure, aggregate welfare may be higher than in the first best.
Immunocytochemical investigation of the rat cementoblast phenotype
Authors: Tenorio D. , Cruchley A. , Hughes F. J.
Published: November 2018

Recent studies have suggested that cementoblasts may be derived from osteoblast progenitor cells, although the cementoblast phenotype has not been extensively characterized. This immunocytochemical study was carried out to investigate the expression by rat cementoblasts of a number of proteins which are characteristic of the osteoblast phenotype. Paraffin sections from developing rat tooth germs and from fully formed adult rat teeth with surrounding tissues, were incubated with antibodies to type I & III collagen, osteocalcin, transforming growth factor β(TGEβ), and insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGFI). Frozen sections and unfixed resin‐embedded sections were stained for alkaline phosphatase activity. Cementum and bone matrix were strongly positive for type I collagen, although there was only weak staining for type III collagen. Cementum was also positive for osteocalcin, which was particularly strong in the matrix of acellular cementum. Most osteoblasts and cementoblasts of the cellular cementum showed intense staining for TGIβ and IGFI, although some cementocytes and osteocytes were negatively stained. The osteoblast‐specific anti‐EII mAb reacted strongly with cementoblasts and newly formed cementocytes in the cellular cementum. Cells associated with acellular cementum did not express TGFβ, IGFI or stain positively with anti‐EII antibody at any time during root development. Cementoblasts were weakly or negatively stained for alkaline phosphatase in contrast to the osteoblasts examined, which may reflect the low level of synthetic activity in cementoblasts. These results demonstrate that osteoblasts and cementoblasts of cellular cementum share many phenotypic characteristics, and also suggest that there may be phenotypic differences between cementoblasts associated with cellular and acellular cementum.
Postoperative bleeding tendency as a risk factor in Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans‐associated periodontitis
Authors: Müller H.-P. , Heinecke A. , Lange D. E
Published: November 2018

Frequent bleeding on probing (BOP) has been considered a risk factor for recurrence of periodontitis. In the present study, 29 patients with Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomirans‐associated periodontitis were enrolled in a carefully performed recall system. At 6 sites per tooth, periodontal probing depth (PPD), gingival index (GI), plaque index (PII) and BOP was assessed 6 weeks, 6 months, 1 and 2 years after comprehensive therapy. Professional toothcleaning and subgingival scaling at sites with PPD ≥ 5 mm and BOP was carried out every 2nd or 3rd month. Subgingival samples from 2 sites, a pooled subgingival sample, check mucosa, saliva and tongue samples were selectively cultivated for A. actinomycetemcomitans after 2 years. Following active therapy, 8 % sites had a PPD of ≥ 4 mm, whereas 21 % sites bled on probing. After 2 years, respective figures were 12 and 27 %. During maintenance, frequent BOP (≥3 times at 4 visits) had a predictive value of 0.133 to indicate an increase in PPD of ≥ 2 mm and a negative predictive value of 0.947. The predictive value of no bleeding to indicate a stable site was 0.972, the negative predictive value 0.078. There was evidence for heterogeneity of associations between increase in PPD of ≥ 2 mm and ≥ 3 times BOP among patients (X2(28) = 41.45, p < 0.05). Significant sources for the variation of weighted In‐transformed estimates of individual odds ratios (range ‐0.83 to 6.21, median 1.52) were relative numbers of A. actinomycetemcomitans‐positive samples 2 years after therapy, age, and mean % of PII 2 (R2 =0.439, p<0.001). No association between increase in PPD and BOP was found in patients where A. actinomycetemcomitans was not recovered from any sample (X2MH = 1.96), but A. actinomycetemcomitans‐positive subjects still had inconsistent associations (X2MH = 37.65. p < 0.01). Ignoring patient characteristics may be misleading in the search for risk factors for recurrence of the disease.
Relative avidity of serum antibodies to putative periodontopathogens in periodontal disease
Authors: Mooney J. , Adonogianaki E. , Kinane D. F.
Published: November 2018

ELISA was used to determine both the avidity and titre of IgG, IgA and IgM antibodies to the gram‐negative anaerobe. Porphyromonas gingivalis, in twenty periodontitis patients enrolled in a longitudinal study of attachment loss and eleven non‐periodontitis affected subjects. The avidity and titre of IgG antibodies to Actinobacillus Actinomycetemcomitans were also examined. A cross‐sectional analysis of the longitudinal patients at baseline and non‐periodontally affected controls confirmed earlier findings that IgG and IgA antibody titres to P. gingivalis were higher in periodontitis patients than in individuals who were not periodontally affected. In this cross‐sectional analysis, IgG antibody avidities to P. gingivalis were not found to be significantly higher in periodontitis than in control subjects (p = 0.065). However, indications of the potential prognostic value of antibody avidity was demonstrated by the higher IgM avidities to P. gingivalis in patients who did not experience attachment loss during the three‐month monitoring period than in those who did (p=0.0005).
Gingival crevicular fluid IL‐8: correlation with local IL‐1β levels and patient estrogen status
Authors: Payne J. B. , Reinhardt R. A. , Masada M. P. , DuBois L. M. , Allison A. C.
Published: November 2018

Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) IL‐8 and IL‐1,1β levels were determined by sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Associations between IL‐8 and IL‐1β GCF levels, and between these cytokines and patient estrogen status were evaluated. IL‐8 and IL‐1β were detected more frequently and in higher amounts/30 s GCF sample in estrogen‐deficient patients than in estrogensufficient patients. IL‐8 and IL‐1β GCF levels were significantly correlated. These lindings suggest that GCF IL‐8 levels are associated with patient estrogen status and local IL‐1β concentrations.
Parent, school, and peer factors related to U.S. adolescents’ diet and exercise
Authors: Chung Sophia Jihey , Ersig Anne L. , McCarthy Ann Marie
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Adolescent obesity is a significant public health problem in the United States. Developing interventions to prevent or improve adolescent obesity may positively affect physical and mental health across the lifespan. However, to ensure that interventions are effective, influential factors must first be identified. The purpose of this study was to examine associations among parent‐, school‐, and peer‐related factors and diet and physical activity of the adolescents in the United States.

Design and Methods

Using logistic regression analyses, cross‐sectional data of 5,248 adolescents in grades 5–10 from 184 schools from the World Health Organization's 2009/2010 survey of Health Behavior in School‐Aged Children (HBSC) for the United States were analyzed, including variables for parent, peer, and school factors.

Results

Parent‐ and peer‐related factors were associated with adolescents’ diet and physical activity (PA). Peer factors were associated with time spent on PA, but not a parent or school factors. The type of school lunch program was the only school factor associated with diet; no school factors were associated with exercise.

Practice Implications

Results of this secondary analysis extend prior work, which identified associations between parent‐ and peer factors and adolescents’ diet and exercise. Findings will help identify targets for improving adolescents’ diet and exercise behaviors.
Operationalising complexity in health professions education
Authors: Rojas David
Published: November 2018

Rojas comments on Cleland et al.'s notion that selection is a ‘wicked problem’ by examining how complexity theory is operationalized in Health Professions Education
The Social Bases of Rural‐Urban Political Divides: Social Status, Work, and Sociocultural Beliefs
Authors: Kelly Paige , Lobao Linda
Published: November 2018

The rural‐urban political divide has sparked media and social science concern. Yet national studies of rural and urban voters have largely failed to draw from the distinct conceptual literatures produced by rural sociologists. We take a new look at individuals’ voting choices, building from two rural sociological literatures, research on spatial inequality and on the rural‐urban continuum, to identify the social bases anteceding Republican voting in presidential elections. We analyze three social bases along which rural‐urban populations vary: social structural statuses, work and employment, and sociocultural values and beliefs. We question the degree to which rural‐urban differences can be accounted for by these factors. Data are from approximately 9,000 respondents to the General Social Surveys for election years 2000–2012. Our findings demonstrate that the literatures produced by rural sociologists provide a strong conceptual foundation for explaining rural‐urban voting differences. Rural and urban residents’ differential social statuses account for the greatest variation in their voting choices. Sociocultural values and beliefs, particularly attitudes toward domestic social issues, are also important. Findings add significant insight into the variety of factors that differentiate rural‐urban individuals’ voting choices as well as illuminate the need for greater emphasis on exurban voters.
Transcriptional profiling identifies critical steps of cell cycle reprogramming necessary for Plasmodiophora brassicae‐driven gall formation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Olszak Marcin , Truman William , Stefanowicz Karolina , Sliwinska Elwira , Ito Masaki , Walerowski Piotr , Rolfe Stephen , Malinowski Robert
Published: November 2018

Plasmodiophora brassicae is a soil‐borne biotroph whose life cycle involves reprogramming host developmental processes leading to the formation of galls on its underground parts. Formation of such structures involves modification of the host cell cycle leading initially to hyperplasia, increasing the number of cells to be invaded, followed by overgrowth of cells colonised by the pathogen. Here we show that P. brassicae infection stimulates formation of the E2Fa/RBR1 complex and upregulation of MYB3R1, MYB3R4 and A‐ and B‐type cyclin expression. These factors were previously described as important regulators of the G2−M cell cycle checkpoint. As a consequence of this manipulation, a large population of host hypocotyl cells are delayed in cell cycle exit and maintained in the proliferative state. We also report that, during further maturation of galls, enlargement of host cells invaded by the pathogen involves endoreduplication leading to increased ploidy levels. This study characterises two aspects of the cell cycle reprogramming efforts of P. brassicae: systemic, related to the disturbance of host hypocotyl developmental programs by preventing cell cycle exit; and local, related to the stimulation of cell enlargement via increased endocycle activity.
Measles antibody trough levels after treatment with immunoglobulin products and predicted levels assuming lower measles antibody specifications
Authors: Vandeberg Peter , Cruz Maria Cristina , Griffin Rhonda
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Widespread vaccination against measles has resulted in decreasing measles antibody levels in human immune globulin (IG) products. As levels continue to decline, it needs to be determined whether the release specifications for measles antibody levels in IG products can be lowered and still provide protection against infection for patients who receive IG treatment for primary immunodeficiency disease.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Trough level measles neutralizing antibodies were measured in 10 pediatric patients with primary immunodeficiency disease (ages 2–16) treated with IG administered both by intravenous and subcutaneous infusion. The results were used to model worst‐case (lowest) serum measles antibody levels in two cases: 1) the current case with intravenous dosage at 300 mg/kg at a measles antibody level of 0.48× Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research Reference 176 and 2) a future case with intravenous dosage at 400 mg/kg and 0.30× Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research Reference 176.

RESULTS

Serum trough measles neutralizing antibody levels were an average of 11‐fold or greater above minimum protective levels for immunocompetent individuals of 0.12 IU/mL in both the intravenous and subcutaneous phases of the study. Modeling using both the current worst‐case dose and future case shows average levels for IG intravenous/subcutaneous infusion of 3.9/4.8‐ and 3.2/4.0‐fold above 0.12 IU/mL for the two cases, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Lowering the measles antibody level specification to 0.30× Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research Reference 176 in IG products will still provide trough serum antibody levels against measles infection of greater than 0.12 IU/mL when dosed at 400 mg/kg or higher.
Cardiorespiratory effects of variable pressure thoracic insufflation in cats undergoing video‐assisted thoracic surgery
Authors: Mayhew Philipp D. , Pascoe Peter J. , Giuffrida Michelle A. , Mitchell Jeffrey , Steffey Michele A. , Culp William T. N.
Published: November 2018

Objective

To evaluate the effects of intrathoracic insufflation on cardiorespiratory variables and working space in cats undergoing video‐assisted thoracic surgery.

Study design

Prospective randomized study.

Animals

Six healthy cats.

Methods

Cats were anesthetized using a standardized protocol. A Swan‐Ganz catheter was positioned in the pulmonary artery under fluoroscopic guidance for measurement of cardiac output. Intrathoracic pressures (ITP) of 0 (baseline), 3, and 5 mm Hg were induced with CO2 and maintained for 30 minutes. Statistical comparison of cardiorespiratory variables was performed. After the procedures, all cats were recovered from anesthesia. Videos of thoracic working space at each ITP level were scored in a blinded fashion by 3 board‐certified surgeons using a numerical scale from 0‐10.

Results

All cats tolerated insufflation with 3 and 5 mm Hg for 30 minutes without oxygen desaturation, although ventilatory levels had to be increased substantially to maintain eucapnia and oxygenation. Cardiac index was not significantly different from baseline after 30 minutes at 3 mm Hg but was significantly lower after 30 minutes at 5 mm Hg compared with 3 mm Hg. Oxygen delivery was unaffected by 3 or 5 mm Hg compared with baseline. Scores for working space increased between baseline and 3 and 5 mm Hg but were not different between 3 and 5 mm Hg.

Conclusion

CO2 insufflation to 5 mm Hg seems well tolerated in healthy cats, provided ventilatory settings are substantially increased as ITP increases.

Clinical significance

Thoracic CO2 insufflation of 3 mm Hg in cats during video‐assisted thoracic surgery is associated with less hemodynamic perturbation than 5 mm Hg insufflation and may provide the benefit of improved working space compared with baseline.
Avoiding bites and scratches? Understanding the public health implication of human–bat interactions in Ghana
Authors: Lawson Elaine T. , Ayivor Jesse S. , Ohemeng Fidelia , Ntiamoa‐Baidu Yaa
Published: November 2018

Zoonotic pathogens cause an estimated 70% of emerging and re‐emerging infectious diseases in humans, affecting various aspects of human development on a global scale. The significance of bats as a source of emerging infectious diseases is being progressively appreciated. This study was undertaken post‐Ebola virus disease in West Africa and assessed the public health implications of human–bat interactions by exploring the reasons for contact between humans and bats, as well as reported actions taken upon experiencing bat bites or scratches. The paper highlights the nuances of human–bat interactions, stressing zoonotic disease risk awareness as well as the sources of information. The study used questionnaires to solicit information from 788 respondents in five communities with significant bat populations. We show that bat consumption was one of the main reasons for human–bat interactions. More men across the various communities ate bat meat. Only a small number of respondents (4.4%) reported being bitten by a bat, and 6.1% had been scratched by a bat. More than 21% had come into direct contact with bat blood. An even lower number went to the hospital after been bitten or scratched by bats. There was little knowledge on post‐exposure management. The most common places human–bat interactions occurred were at home and on farms. Seventy‐three per cent of the respondents believed that bats carried diseases, with Ebola virus disease being the most mentioned. Respondents indicated that the way they interacted with bats had not changed, even though they believed bats carried diseases and 46% stated that they had not changed the way they interacted with bats over the last two years. Apart from providing information on avoiding bites and scratches, a more holistic framework is needed to reduce human–bat interactions. The paper recommends a comprehensive and coordinated approach to optimizing an effective response to a potential bat‐borne zoonotic disease spillover.
Thermogravimetric Analysis and Stability Test of Fluoroalkylsilanes Grafted on Alumina Hollow Fibre Membranes
Authors: Koonaphapdeelert Sirichai , Wu Z. , Li K.
Published: November 2018

Alumina hollow fibre membrane surface were modified from hydrophilic to hydrophobic using fluoroalkylsilane (FAS) grafting technique which was found to be effective as shown by the increased contact angle (CA) from less than 90° to more than 100°. The CA increased with respect to the grafting time and leveled off after 24 hours of grafting. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that the FAS attached to the membranes were approximately 0.05–0.6% of the original membrane weight depending on the grafting time and the amount of hydroxyl groups present on the membrane substrates. According to the TGA result, the grafted membranes were thermally stable up to 250°C where FAS began to decompose. Then the grafted membranes were used as a contacting media for stripping CO2 off 2.5 M monoethanolamine (MEA) solution at 80–100°C. The membranes were in contact with hot and corrosive MEA solution for approximately 100 hours without any operational problem. The scanning electron microscopy of the membrane surface showed no difference between the membrane before and after the operation. Also, the CAs of the grafted membranes remained unchanged. These findings suggest that FAS grafted membranes are chemically and thermally stable and can be used in membrane contactors at high temperatures and in chemically harsh conditions.