bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Language Experience in a Tseltal Mayan Village
Authors: Casillas Marisa , Brown Penelope , Levinson Stephen C.
Published: December 2019

Daylong at‐home audio recordings from 10 Tseltal Mayan children (0;2–3;0; Southern Mexico) were analyzed for how often children engaged in verbal interaction with others and whether their speech environment changed with age, time of day, household size, and number of speakers present. Children were infrequently directly spoken to, with most directed speech coming from adults, and no increase with age. Most directed speech came in the mornings, and interactional peaks contained nearly four times the baseline rate of directed speech. Coarse indicators of children’s language development (babbling, first words, first word combinations) suggest that Tseltal children manage to extract the linguistic information they need despite minimal directed speech. Multiple proposals for how they might do so are discussed.
Distinctive properties of the interactions between Notch and Notch ligands
Authors: Hozumi Katsuto
Published: December 2019

Although Notch signaling is known to be critical for the specification of cell fate in various developing organs, the particular roles of each Notch and Notch ligand (NotchL) have not yet been elucidated. The phenotypes found in loss‐of‐function experiments have varied, depending on the expression profiles of the receptors and ligands. However, in some cases, their significances differ from others, even with comparable levels of expression, suggesting a distinctive functional receptor‐ligand interaction during the activation process of Notch signaling. In this review, the phenotypes observed in Notch/NotchL‐deficient situations are introduced, and their distinct roles are accentuated. The distinctive features of the specific combinations of Notch/NotchL are also discussed. This review aims to highlight the unanswered questions in this field to help improve our understanding of the preferential functional interaction between Notch and NotchL.
A practical guide to DNA metabarcoding for entomological ecologists
Authors: Liu Mingxin , Clarke Laurence J. , Baker Susan C. , Jordan Gregory J. , Burridge Christopher P.
Published: December 2019

1. DNA metabarcoding is a cost‐effective species identification approach with great potential to assist entomological ecologists. This review presents a practical guide to help entomological ecologists design their own DNA metabarcoding studies and ensure that sound ecological conclusions can be obtained.

2. The review considers approaches to field sampling, laboratory work, and bioinformatic analyses, with the aim of providing the background knowledge needed to make decisions at each step of a DNA metabarcoding workflow.

3. Although most conventional sampling methods can be adapted to DNA metabarcoding, this review highlights techniques that will ensure suitable DNA preservation during field sampling and laboratory storage. The review also calls for a greater understanding of the occurrence, transportation, and deposition of environmental DNA when applying DNA metabarcoding approaches for different ecosystems.

4. Accurate species detection with DNA metabarcoding needs to consider biases introduced during DNA extraction and PCR amplification, cross‐contamination resulting from inappropriate amplicon library preparation, and downstream bioinformatic analyses. Quantifying species abundance with DNA metabarcoding is in its infancy, yet recent studies demonstrate promise for estimating relative species abundance from DNA sequencing reads.

5. Given that bioinformatics is one of the biggest hurdles for researchers new to DNA metabarcoding, several useful graphical user interface programs are recommended for sequence data processing, and the application of emerging sequencing technologies is discussed.
Electrical stimulation of the ventral tegmental area evokes sleep‐like state transitions under urethane anaesthesia in the rat medial prefrontal cortex via dopamine D1‐like receptors
Authors: Gretenkord Sabine , Olthof Bas M. J. , Stylianou Myrto , Rees Adrian , Gartside Sarah E. , LeBeau Fiona E. N.
Published: December 2019

The role of dopamine in regulating sleep‐state transitions during, both natural sleep and under anaesthesia, is still unclear. Recording in vivo in the rat mPFC under urethane anaesthesia, we observed predominantly slow wave activity (SWA) of <1 Hz in the local field potential interrupted by occasional spontaneous transitions to a low‐amplitude‐fast (LAF) pattern of activity. During periods of SWA, transitions to LAF activity could be rapidly and consistently evoked by electrical stimulation of the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Spontaneous LAF activity, and that evoked by stimulation of the VTA, consisted of fast oscillations similar to those seen in the rapid eye movement (REM)‐like sleep state. Spontaneous and VTA stimulation‐evoked LAF activity occurred simultaneously along the dorsoventral extent of all mPFC subregions. Evoked LAF activity depended on VTA stimulation current and could be elicited using either regular (25–50 Hz) or burst stimulation patterns and was reproducible upon repeated stimulation. Simultaneous extracellular single‐unit recordings showed that during SWA, presumed pyramidal cells fired phasically and almost exclusively on the Up state, while during both spontaneous and VTA‐evoked LAF activity, they fired tonically. The transition to LAF activity evoked by VTA stimulation depended on dopamine D1‐like receptor activation as it was almost completely blocked by systemic administration of the D1‐like receptor antagonist SCH23390. Overall, our data demonstrate that activation of dopamine D1‐like receptors in the mPFC is important for regulating sleep‐like state transitions.
The Headache Pipeline: Excitement and Uncertainty
Authors: Rapoport Alan M. , McAllister Peter
Published: December 2019

There are many new treatment options available for migraine and more are coming. Three calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) antagonist monoclonal antibodies have been approved and a 4th is due in early 2020. Small molecule CGRP receptor‐blocking oral compounds, both for acute care and prevention, are also coming. Four neurostimulators are available, with others on the way. New acute treatments coming soon include the 5HT1Fagonist lasmiditan, a zolmitriptan intradermal micro‐needle patch, and a nasal mist sumatriptan with a permeability enhancer. Farther out, three novel dihydroergotamine delivery systems, and a liquid‐filled capsule of celecoxib show early promise. A new, safer form of methysergide is in the works, as is a longer‐duration onabotulinumtoxinA. As always with new products, questions regarding safety, tolerability, cost, and insurance coverage will need to be addressed. Despite these concerns and uncertainties, a robust headache treatment pipeline is good for patients who are not satisfied with the results of their treatment and/or cannot tolerate existing treatments.
Quantification of intratumoral collagen and elastin fibers within hepatocellular carcinoma tissues finds correlations with clinico‐patho‐radiological features
Authors: Maehara Junki , Masugi Yohei , Abe Tokiya , Tsujikawa Hanako , Kurebayashi Yutaka , Ueno Akihisa , Ojima Hidenori , Okuda Shigeo , Jinzaki Masahiro , Shinoda Masahiro , Kitagawa Yuko , Oda Yoshinao , Honda Hiroshi , Sakamoto Michiie
Published: December 2019

Aim

Emerging evidence suggests a promising role for tumor stromal factors in characterizing patients with various types of malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We quantified the amount of collagen and elastin fibers in HCC samples with the aim of clarifying the clinico‐patho‐radiological significance of fiber deposition in HCC.

Methods

We computed the amount of collagen and elastin fibers using digital image analysis of whole‐slide images of Elastica van Gieson‐stained tissues from 156 surgically resected HCCs. Furthermore, we assessed the correlations between the fiber content of HCC samples and clinical, pathological, and radiological features, including immunohistochemistry‐based molecular subtypes and immunosubtypes.

Results

The intratumoral area ratio of collagen in HCC tissues (median 3.4%, range 0.1–22.2%) was more than threefold that of elastin (median 0.9%, range 0.1–9.0%); there was a strong positive correlation between the amounts of collagen and elastin. Higher levels of combined collagen and elastin were significantly associated with the confluent multinodular macroscopic tumor type, the absence of a fibrous capsule, intratumoral steatosis, scirrhous tumor stroma, dense inflammatory‐cell infiltrates, and the biliary/stem cell markers‐positive HCC subtype. The associations of higher collagen levels with radiological findings, including heterogeneous enhancement and persistent enhancement on dynamic computed tomography, were significant. In contrast, the associations of radiological findings with elastin fibers were not significant. Intratumoral fibrous stroma in HCC comprised septum‐like and perisinusoidal fibrosis; these two forms represented distinct distribution patterns of fibers and fibroblasts.

Conclusion

Quantitative analysis suggested that stromal fiber‐rich HCCs likely represent a distinct clinico‐patho‐radiological entity.
“We will Manage It” – Did Chancellor Merkel's Dictum Increase or Even Cause the Refugee Movement in 2015?
Authors: Pries Ludger
Published: December 2019

In public and scientific debates about the dynamics of the so‐called refugee crisis of 2015, there are highly controversial positions concerning the statement on August 2015 by Chancellor Merkel: “We will manage it” Did this dictum actually increase or even unleash the refugee migration towards Europe in 2015? Was Germany's governmental policy against the legal European and national frame? Based on an analysis of legal documents and public statements, the article first reconstructs the development of refugee immigration into the EU, especially to Germany, in 2015 and reviews whether the German government violated law and opened one‐sided borders. Based on survey data of 4,500 refugees in 2016, it then analyses whether the Merkel dictum significantly changed the volume and the reasons why refugees decided to flee to Germany. Finally, some conclusions are drawn.
Combining correlative and mechanistic niche models with human activity data to elucidate the invasive potential of a sub‐Antarctic insect
Authors: Pertierra Luis R. , Bartlett Jesamine C. , Duffy Grant A. , Vega Greta C. , Hughes Kevin A. , Hayward Scott A. L. , Convey Peter , Olalla‐Tarraga Miguel A. , Aragón P.
Published: December 2019

Aim

Correlative species distribution models (SDMs) are subject to substantial spatio‐temporal limitations when historical occurrence records of data‐poor species provide incomplete and outdated information for niche modelling. Complementary mechanistic modelling techniques can, therefore, offer a valuable contribution to underpin more physiologically informed predictions of biological invasions, the risk of which is often exacerbated by climate change. In this study we integrate physiological and human pressure data to address the uncertainties and limitations of correlative SDMs and to better understand, predict and manage biological invasions.

Location

Western archipelagos of the Southern Ocean and martime Antarctica.

Taxon

Eretmoptera murphyi (Chironomidae), invertebrates.

Methods

Mahalanobis Distances were used for correlative SDM construction for a species with few records. A mechanistic SDM was built around different fitness components (larval survival and life stage progression) as a function of temperature. SDM predictions were combined with human activity levels in Antarctica to generate a site vulnerability index to the assess colonization risk of E. murphyi. Future scenarios of ecophysiological suitability were built around the warming trends in the region.

Results

Both SDMs converge to predict high environmental suitability in the species' native and introduced ranges. However, the mechanistic model indicates a slightly larger invasive potential based on larval performance at different temperatures. Human activity levels across the Antarctic Peninsula play a key role in discerning site vulnerabilities. Niche suitability in Antarctica grows considerably under long‐term climate scenarios, leading to a substantially higher invasive threat to the Antarctic ecosystems. In turn changing conditions result in growing physiological mismatches with the environment in the native range in South Georgia.

Main conclusions

Long‐term studies of invasion potential under climate benefit from integrating correlative predictions with physiological experiments, as the invasion potential varies depending on the area and the timescale examined. This study also highlights a conservation paradox whereby the accidental introduction of an insect represents a threat to the Antarctic ecoystems that contrasts with its endangered status at the native range.
Molecular characterization and expression analysis of two crucial MAPKs‐ jnk1 and erk1 as cellular signal transducers in Labeo rohita in response to PAMPs stimulation and pathogenic invasion
Authors: Sadangi Sushmita , Mohanty Arpita , Paichha Mahismita , Samanta Mrinal
Published: December 2019

Mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are crucial Ser/Thr protein kinases that play important roles in innate immunity by converting extracellular stimuli into a wide range of cellular responses, including the production of cytokines. In this study, two MAPK genes, jnk1 and erk1, were cloned and characterized in rohu (Labeo rohita), a commercially important freshwater fish species in the Indian subcontinent. In healthy rohu, both jnk1 and erk1 gene expressions were highest in the spleen as compared to gill, liver, blood and kidney tissues. In vitro stimulation of the L. rohita gill (LRG) cell line with γ‐D‐glutamyl‐meso‐diaminopimelic acid, muramyl dipeptide and polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) resulted in significantly enhanced expressions of jnk1 and erk1 genes. In the in vivo experiments, jnk1 and erk1 gene expressions were also enhanced in lipopolysaccharides and poly I:C‐treatment. Infection of rohu fingerlings with Aeromonas hydrophila and Bacillus subtilis revealed significantly enhanced expressions of the jnk1 and erk1 genes in all of the tested organs/tissues. Together these results imply the important role of jnk1 and erk1 genes in fish during pathogenic invasion and diseases.
Diet composition of starry smooth‐hound Mustelus asterias and methodological considerations for assessing the trophic level of predatory fish
Authors: McCully Phillips Sophy R. , Grant Alastair , Ellis Jim R.
Published: December 2019

The stomach contents of 640 starry smooth‐hound Mustelus asterias from the north‐east Atlantic were examined. The diet was dominated by crustaceans (98.8% percentage of index of relative importance, %IRI), with the two main prey species being hermit crab Pagurus bernhardus (34% IRI) and flying crab Liocarcinus holsatus (15% IRI). Ontogenetic dietary preferences showed that smaller individuals [20–69 cm total length (LT) n = 283] had a significantly lower diversity of prey than larger individuals (70–124 cm LT, n = 348); however, 18 prey species were found exclusively in smaller individuals and eight prey taxa were found exclusively in larger individuals. Larger commercially important brachyurans such as edible crab Cancer pagurus and velvet swimming crab Necora puber were more prevalent in the diet of larger individuals. Specimens from the North Sea ecoregion had a lower diversity of prey types for a given sample size than fish from the Celtic Seas ecoregion. Whilst cumulative prey curves did not reach an asymptote, this was primarily due to the high taxonomic resolution utilized and 95% of the diet was described by just seven crustacean taxa. The trophic level (TL) was calculated as 4.34 when species‐level prey categories were used. This fine‐scale taxonomic resolution resulted in a TL estimate close to a whole level above that estimated using wider taxonomic groupings. This large bias has important methodological implications for TL studies based on categorized prey data, particularly those of predatory fish.
Cell polarity: Regulators and mechanisms in plants
Authors: Yang Kezhen , Wang Lu , Le Jie , Dong Juan
Published: December 2019

Cell polarity plays an important role in a wide range of biological processes in plant growth and development. Cell polarity is manifested as the asymmetric distribution of molecules, for example, proteins and lipids, at the plasma membrane and/or inside of a cell. Here, we summarize a few polarized proteins that have been characterized in plants and we review recent advances towards understanding the molecular mechanism for them to polarize at the plasma membrane. Multiple mechanisms, including membrane trafficking, cytoskeletal activities, and protein phosphorylation, and so forth define the polarized plasma membrane domains. Recent discoveries suggest that the polar positioning of the proteo‐lipid membrane domain may instruct the formation of polarity complexes in plants. In this review, we highlight the factors and regulators for their functions in establishing the membrane asymmetries in plant development. Furthermore, we discuss a few outstanding questions to be addressed to better understand the mechanisms by which cell polarity is regulated in plants.
Local modulation of the Wnt/β‐catenin and bone morphogenic protein (BMP) pathways recapitulates rib defects analogous to cerebro‐costo‐mandibular syndrome
Authors: Turner Benedict R. H. , Itasaki Nobue
Published: December 2019

Ribs are seldom affected by developmental disorders, however, multiple defects in rib structure are observed in the spliceosomal disease cerebro‐costo‐mandibular syndrome (CCMS). These defects include rib gaps, found in the posterior part of the costal shaft in multiple ribs, as well as missing ribs, shortened ribs and abnormal costotransverse articulations, which result in inadequate ventilation at birth and high perinatal mortality. The genetic mechanism of CCMS is a loss‐of‐function mutation in SNRPB, a component of the major spliceosome, and knockdown of this gene in vitro affects the activity of the Wnt/β‐catenin and bone morphogenic protein (BMP) pathways. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether altering these pathways in vivo can recapitulate rib gaps and other rib abnormalities in the model animal. Chick embryos were implanted with beads soaked in Wnt/β‐catenin and BMP pathway modulators during somitogenesis, and incubated until the ribs were formed. Some embryos were harvested in the preceding days for analysis of the chondrogenic marker Sox9, to determine whether pathway modulation affected somite patterning or chondrogenesis. Wnt/β‐catenin inhibition manifested characteristic rib phenotypes seen in CCMS, including rib gaps (P < 0.05) and missing ribs (P < 0.05). BMP pathway activation did not cause rib gaps but yielded missing rib (P < 0.01) and shortened rib phenotypes (P < 0.05). A strong association with vertebral phenotypes was also noted with BMP4 (P < 0.001), including scoliosis (P < 0.05), a feature associated with CCMS. Reduced expression of Sox9 was detected with Wnt/β‐catenin inhibition, indicating that inhibition of chondrogenesis precipitated the rib defects in the presence of Wnt/β‐catenin inhibitors. BMP pathway activators also reduced Sox9 expression, indicating an interruption of somite patterning in the manifestation of rib defects with BMP4. The present study demonstrates that local inhibition of the Wnt/β‐catenin and activation of the BMP pathway can recapitulate rib defects, such as those observed in CCMS. The balance of Wnt/β‐catenin and BMP in the somite is vital for correct rib morphogenesis, and alteration of the activity of these two pathways in CCMS may perturb this balance during somite patterning, leading to the observed rib defects.
“Wow I had no idea”—How job rotation is experienced by nurses caring for elective orthopaedic patients: A qualitative study
Authors: Halberg Nina , Assafi Lone , Kammersgård Gitte , Jensen Pia Søe
Published: December 2019

Aims and objectives

To explore gains and impacts of job rotation through the experiences of involved nursing personnel responsible for different parts of care during the elective orthopaedic patient's pathway.

Background

When patients undergo elective orthopaedic surgery, they encounter nurses from different wards. So far, job rotation has only been described through the experiences of the job rotating nurses. This study includes all involved nursing personnel and bases the job rotation on the pathway of the elective orthopaedic patient.

Design

This study has an exploratory‐descriptive and qualitative approach and follows the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines.

Method

A total of nine focus groups including 16 informants were conducted before, during and after a 5‐month trial period. The data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

The findings show that existing work structures and work content combined with a lack of a common understanding of the job rotation impacted the expectations of the nursing personnel regarding (in)dependence, individual and collegial involvement and investment, as well as the collegial belongingness expressed through terminologies of “home” and “culture.” The personal gains among the job rotating nurses showed increased knowledge, skills and influence. When knowledge was shared and exchanged, the job rotating nurses became “cultural translators” of the care to the elective orthopaedic patient.

Conclusions

This study shows personal gains among the job rotating nurses through increased knowledge, skills and influence as well as collegial gains by sharing and exchanging knowledge. When this exchange was utilised, the job rotation was evaluated positively, and contrary, when not utilised the job rotation had a negative impact on the work environment.

Relevance to clinical practice

Job rotation among nurses following the care of the patient's pathway can be a way of promoting patient safety and quality through increased knowledge across wards by including every aspect and element of the patient's pathway.
“A privilege but also a challenge.” Nurse educators' perceptions about teaching fundamental care in a simulated learning environment: A qualitative study
Authors: Lillekroken Daniela
Published: December 2019

Aims and objectives

To explore nurse educators' perceptions about teaching fundamental care to undergraduate nursing students in a simulated learning environment.

Background

Recent research has demonstrated that fundamental care is overlooked in nursing education, resulting in little empirical research on how to teach fundamental care within a simulated learning environment.

Design

The study has a qualitative, explorative design. The principles of consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) were applied for reporting the methods and findings.

Methods

Data were collected through participant observations and focus group interviews with nursing students, clinical nurses and nurse educators. The data were analysed using the qualitative content analysis method.

Results

The core category “A privilege but also a challenge” represents the overall perception of nurse educators' perceptions about teaching fundamental care in a simulated learning environment. The core category is supported by two subcategories: “Fundamental care is important to nursing education” and “To set a good example,” which represent the attributes and the role nurse educators have in helping students achieve their fundamental care learning outcomes.

Conclusions

Fundamental care can be taught to students by engaging them in an interplay between lectures and learning activities that are designed to enhance their skills during simulations in simulated learning environments.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nursing education should prepare students to develop the skills they will be applying when providing fundamental care in real life; thus, the students should learn how to deliver high‐quality fundamental care.
Effects of Piper sarmentosum extract supplementation on growth performances and rumen fermentation and microflora characteristics in goats
Authors: Zhou Luli , Wang Dingfa , Hu Haichao , Zhou Hanlin
Published: December 2019

This study was carried out to investigate the effect of diet Piper sarmentosum extract (PSE) on the growth performance, antioxidant properties, rumen fermentation and microflora in goats. Forty Hainan black goats with similar body weight were divided into four groups with supplementation of PSE in the concentrate at 0, 300, 600 and 1,200 mg/kg, respectively, and fed for 56 days. Results showed that average daily gain (ADG) was higher and feed intake/body gain (F/G) was lower in goats fed with PSE at 300 mg/kg (p < .05). The activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) and total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC) in the serum of goats differed among treatments and were greatest linearly when PSE was added at 1,200 mg/kg (p < .05). The level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the serum of goats differed among treatments and was lowest linearly when PSE was added at 1,200 mg/kg (p < .05). The level of protozoal protein in the rumen of goats differed among treatments and was lowest linearly when PSE was added at 1,200 mg/kg (p < .05). The concentrations of ruminal acetic acid and valeric acid and the ratio of acetate to propionate were reduced with PSE supplementation (p < .05). Protozoa, fungi, Ruminococcus flavefaciens and Fibrobacter succinogenes contents differed among treatments and were lowest linearly when PSE was added at 1,200 mg/kg (p < .05). Thus, supplementation of PSE at 300–1,200 mg/kg to goat concentrate is recommended for improving antioxidative ability and rumen efficiency and reducing protozoal content of goat.
Phylogeny, biogeography, and morphological ancestral character reconstruction in the Mediterranean genus Fumana (Cistaceae)
Authors: Carrió Elena , Engelbrecht Meike , García‐Fayos Patricio , Güemes Jaime
Published: December 2019

Fumana is a diverse genus of the Cistaceae family, consisting of 21 currently accepted species. In this study, nuclear (ITS) and plastid (matK, trnT‐L) molecular markers were used to reconstruct the phylogeny and to estimate divergence times, including 19 species of Fumana. Phylogenetic analyses (Bayesian Inference, Maximum Parsimony and Maximum Likelihood) confirmed the monophyly of Fumana and did not support the infrageneric divisions previously established. The results support four main clades that group species that differ in vegetative and reproductive characters. Given the impossibility to define morphological characters common to all species within the clades, our proposal is to reject infrageneric divisions. Molecular dating and ancestral area analyses provide evidence for a Miocene diversification of the genus in the north‐western Mediterranean. Ancestral state reconstructions revealed ancestral character states for some traits related to xeric and arid habitats, suggesting a preadaptation to the Mediterranean climate.
Detection ofBartonellaspp. in dogs after infection withRickettsia rickettsii
Authors: Lashnits Erin , Neupane Pradeep , Maggi Ricardo G. , Linder Keith E. , Bradley Julie M. , Balakrishnan Nandhakumar , Southern Brittany L. , McKeon Gabriel P. , Chandrashekar Ramaswamy , Breitschwerdt Edward B.
Published: December 2019

Background

Dynamics of infection byBartonellaandRickettsiaspecies, which are epidemiologically associated in dogs, have not been explored in a controlled setting.

Objectives

Describe an outbreak investigation of occultBartonellaspp. infection among a group of dogs, discovered after experimentally inducedRickettsia rickettsii(Rr) infection.

Animals

Six apparently healthy purpose‐bred Beagles obtained from a commercial vendor.

Methods

Retrospective and prospective study. Dogs were serially tested forBartonellaspp. andRrusing serology, culture, and PCR, over 3 study phases: 3 months before inoculation withRr(retrospective), 6 weeks after inoculation withRr(retrospective), and 8 months of follow‐up (prospective).

Results

BeforeRrinfection, 1 dog wasBartonella henselae(Bh)immunofluorescent antibody assay (IFA) seroreactive and 1 wasRickettsiaspp. IFA seroreactive. After inoculation withRr, all dogs developed mild Rocky Mountain spotted fever compatible with low‐doseRrinfection, seroconverted toRickettsiaspp. within 4‐11 days, and recovered within 1 week. When 1 dog developed ear tip vasculitis with intra‐lesionalBh, an investigation ofBartonellaspp. infection was undertaken. All dogs had seroconverted to 1‐3Bartonellaspp. between 7 and 18 days afterRrinoculation. Between 4 and 8 months afterRrinoculation,BhDNA was amplified from multiple tissues from 2 dogs, andBartonella vinsoniisubsp.berkhoffii(Bvb) DNA was amplified from 4 of 5 dogs' oral swabs.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Vector‐borne disease exposure was demonstrated in research dogs from a commercial vendor. Despite limitations, our results support the possibilities of recrudescence of chronic subclinicalBartonellaspp. infection afterRrinfection and horizontal direct‐contact transmission between dogs.
Trainee‐environment interactions that stimulate motivation: A rich pictures study
Authors: van der Goot Wieke E. , Cristancho Sayra M. , de Carvalho Filho Marco Antonio , Jaarsma A. Debbie C. , Helmich Esther
Published: December 2019

Context

Staying motivated when working and learning in complex workplaces can be challenging. When complex environments exceed trainees’ aptitude, this may reduce feelings of competence, which can hamper motivation. Motivation theories explain how intrapersonal and interpersonal aspects influence motivation. Clinical environments include additional aspects that may not fit into these theories. We used a systems approach to explore how the clinical environment influences trainees’ motivation and how they are intertwined.

Methods

We employed the rich pictures drawing method as a visual tool to capture the complexities of the clinical environment. A total of 15 trainees drew a rich picture representing a motivating situation in the workplace and were interviewed afterwards. Data collection and analysis were performed iteratively, following a constructivist grounded theory approach, using open, focused and selective coding strategies as well as memo writing. Both drawings and the interviews were used to reach our results.

Results

Trainees drew situations pertaining to tasks they enjoyed doing and that mattered for their learning or patient care. Four dimensions of the environment were identified that supported trainees’ motivation. First, social interactions, including interpersonal relationships, supported motivation through close collaboration between health care professionals and trainees. Second, organisational features, including processes and procedures, supported motivation when learning opportunities were provided or trainees were able to influence their work schedule. Third, technical possibilities, including tools and artefacts, supported motivation when tools were used to provide trainees with feedback or trainees used specific instruments in their training. Finally, physical space supported motivation when the actual setting improved the atmosphere or trainees were able to modify the environment to help them focus.

Conclusions

Different clinical environment dimensions can support motivation and be modified to create optimal motivating situations. To understand motivational dynamics and support trainees to navigate through postgraduate medical education, we need to take all clinical environment dimensions into account.
Intraepithelial CD163+ macrophages in tongue leukoplakia biopsy: A promising tool for cancer screening
Authors: Shigeoka Manabu , Koma Yu‐ichiro , Kodama Takayuki , Nishio Mari , Akashi Masaya , Yokozaki Hiroshi
Published: December 2019

Objective

Oral leukoplakia has mixed and differing histopathological features, and it is thus difficult to reach an accurate histological diagnosis of oral leukoplakia based on a local biopsy alone. We recently demonstrated the significance of CD163+ macrophages in oral carcinogenesis. Herein we sought to determine whether CD163+ macrophages in biopsy specimens of oral leukoplakia help identify the overall histological nature of the lesion.

Patients and Methods

Twenty‐six patients with tongue leukoplakia who underwent a histological examination by both a preoperative local biopsy and consecutive total excision were enrolled. We evaluated clinicopathological factors and the expression of CD163+ macrophages based on a retrospective comparison of the histological diagnostic concordance between the biopsies and excisions.

Results

Seventeen patients (diagnostic‐agreement group) were diagnosed with squamous intraepithelial lesion based on both the biopsy and the excision. Nine patients (diagnostic‐discrepancy group) were diagnosed with invasive cancer by excision, although invasive cancer was not observed in their biopsy specimens. Compared to the diagnostic‐agreement group, the diagnostic‐discrepancy group had more tongue leukoplakia with non‐homogenous or high numbers of intraepithelial CD163+ macrophages.

Conclusion

The evaluation of intraepithelial CD163+ macrophages in local biopsy specimens from tongue leukoplakia patients is a promising tool for cancer screening.
Experience of gerotranscendence among community‐dwelling older people: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Jeong Sarah Yeun‐Sim , Moon Kyoung Ja , Lee Woo Suck , David Michael
Published: December 2019

Aims and objectives

To investigate the experience of gerotranscendence among older people in community in Korea and the factors that influence their experience.

Background

While the literature provides estimates of how many older people are affected by negative aspects of ageing, it is not known to what extent and why some older people experience gerotranscendence, despite the challenges they encounter throughout their lifetime.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

A 55‐item questionnaire was distributed to 109 older people between March and June 2017. Univariable and multivariable linear regressions were conducted on the four question group sum scores to identify factors associated with gerotranscendence.

Results

Older people aged 65–93 who live in a community in Korea reported the experience of gerotranscendence. Age and religion showed a statistically significant association with gerotranscendence. Religiosity showed a statistically significant association with beliefs about death and dying. Age and beliefs about death and dying have significant relationship with the experience of gerotranscendence.

Conclusions

Older people who have more positive views about death and dying are more likely to experience gerotranscendence. The study results provide nurses and other healthcare professionals with new understandings and insights about the factors potentially related to positive ageing process.

Implications for practice

It is essential for nurses to investigate their own beliefs about death and dying, and their understanding of gerotranscendence which will contribute to developing education programs and practice guidelines as an essential part of promoting gerotranscendence and positive ageing.
Long‐term follow‐up of implantable cardioverter defibrillator patients with regard to appropriate therapy, complications, and mortality
Authors: Mattsson Gustav , Magnusson Peter
Published: December 2019

Background

An implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is recommended for patients with symptomatic heart failure with ejection fraction ≤35% despite optimal medical therapy. More recently, the benefits of ICDs have been questioned in nonischemic cardiomyopathy (CM).

Aim

To examine the incidence of appropriate therapy, complications, mortality, and cause of death among ICD patients in an unselected validated cohort. In primary prevention, appropriate therapy in ischemic versus nonischemic CM will be evaluated.

Methods

A retrospective observational study of patients in Region Gävleborg, Sweden, who underwent ICD implantation or replacement between 2007 and 2017.

Results

In total, 438 patients (mean age at implant: 65.9 ± 11.2 years, 82.0% males, mean follow‐up: 5.2 ± 4.0 years) were included. There were 108 (24.7%) deaths (49.1% due to heart failure) and 94.9% survived the first year. Cumulative incidence of appropriate therapy at 5‐year was 31.6%. Cumulative incidence of inappropriate shock at 5‐year was 9.1%. A total of 98 complications requiring surgical intervention occurred (annual rate: 4.3%). In total, 236 patients with primary prevention due to ischemic (61.9%) or nonischemic (38.1%) CM were included. During a mean follow‐up of 3.9 ± 2.5 years, for appropriate therapy, there was no significant difference (P = .985) between ischemic (cumulative incidence at 1, 3, and 5 years: 6.4%, 17.1%, and 19.6%) and nonischemic CM (cumulative incidence at 1, 3, and 5 years: 5.6%, 13.6%, and 24.4%).

Conclusion

Ischemic and nonischemic CM confer similar risk of ventricular arrhythmia. This supports current guidelines regarding primary‐prevention ICD. Short‐term survival is excellent but complications remain a problem.
Three‐dimensional soft tissue preservation revealed in the skin of a non‐avian dinosaur
Authors: Fabbri Matteo , Wiemann Jasmina , Manucci Fabio , Briggs Derek E. G.
Published: December 2019

The most commonly preserved soft tissues associated with ornithischian dinosaurs are skin remains. The apparent resistance of hadrosaur skin to decay, and its abundance in the fossil record relative to that of other tetrapods, has been attributed to factors such as thickness and composition. Here we report additional intrinsic factors within hadrosaur skin: 3D‐preserved eumelanin‐bearing bodies, dermal cells and blood vessel fragments in an organic matrix composed of protein fossilization products. The skin is much thinner than that of living mammals of similar size. It is likely that the preservation of hadrosaur skin is related to the arrangement of the layers composing it.
Universal Gravitation and the (Un)Intelligibility of Natural Philosophy
Authors: Slavov Matias
Published: December 2019

This article centers on Hume's position on the intelligibility of natural philosophy. To that end, the controversy surrounding universal gravitation shall be scrutinized. It is very well known that Hume sides with the Newtonian experimentalist approach rather than with the Leibnizian demand for intelligibility. However, what is not clear is Hume's overall position on the intelligibility of natural philosophy. It shall be argued that Hume declines Leibniz's principle of intelligibility. However, Hume does not eschew intelligibility altogether; his concept of causation itself stipulates mechanical intelligibility.
The diversity of soil microbial communities matters when legumes face drought
Authors: Prudent Marion , Dequiedt Samuel , Sorin Camille , Girodet Sylvie , Nowak Virginie , Duc Gérard , Salon Christophe , Maron Pierre‐Alain
Published: December 2019

The cultivation of legumes shows promise for the development of sustainable agriculture, but yield instability remains one of the main obstacles for its adoption. Here, we tested whether the yield stability (i.e., resistance and resilience) of pea plants subjected to drought could be enhanced by soil microbial diversity. We used a dilution approach to manipulate the microbial diversity, with a genotype approach to distinguish the effect of symbionts from that of microbial diversity as a whole. We investigated the physiology of plants in response to drought when grown on a soil containing high or low level of microbial diversity. Plants grown under high microbial diversity displayed higher productivity and greater resilience after drought. Yield losses were mitigated by 15% on average in the presence of high soil microbial diversity at sowing. Our study provides proof of concept that the soil microbial community as a whole plays a key role for yield stability after drought even in plant species living in relationships with microbial symbionts. These results emphasize the need to restore soil biodiversity for sustainable crop management and climate change adaptation.
Determination of pentraxin 3 levels in diagnosis of appendicitis in children
Authors: Ates Ufuk , Bahadir Kutay , Ergun Ergun , Gollu Gulnur , Durmaz Mustafa , Gunay Fatih , Erguder Imge , Bingol‐Kologlu Meltem , Yagmurlu Aydin , Dindar Huseyin , Cakmak Murat
Published: December 2019

Background

The aim of this study is to determine whether pentraxin 3 (PTX3) levels can be used in the diagnosis of appendicitis in children.

Methods

Fifteen children under 18 years old, who gave blood samples for reasons other than inflammatory conditions, and 40 children who were proved to have appendicitis (non‐perforated or perforated) between August 2017 and January 2018, were enrolled in the study. Patients were classified into subgroups: group 1 (healthy children without any sign of inflammation, n = 15), group 2 (non‐perforated appendicitis, n = 25), and group 3 (perforated appendicitis, n = 15).

Results

The median PTX3 value was 1.01 ng/mL (minimum value: 0.82, maximum: 1.28) in the control group. The median PTX3 values prior to surgery were 20.68 ng/mL (minimum: 1.02, maximum: 28.471) and 1.46 (minimum: 1.05, maximum: 23.421) ng/mL for non‐perforated appendicitis and perforated appendicitis respectively. The PTX3 levels were significantly higher in groups 2 and 3 than in group 1 (P < 0.01). According to receiver operating characteristics analysis the cut‐off value of PTX3 levels at admission for appendicitis was 1.30 ng/mL with a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 100% (area under the curve, 0.939; P = 0.000).

Conclusions

Pentraxin 3 levels were significantly higher in children with appendicitis than in healthy children. Children with high PTX3 levels complaining of right lower quadrant pain may support a diagnosis of appendicitis. Future studies should be conducted to evaluate changes in PTX3 levels by comparing children with appendicitis versus acute abdominal pain in larger populations to further determine the value of PTX3 in the diagnosis of appendicitis in children.
Characteristics and predictive value for graft fibrosis of the complement‐binding capacity of donor‐specific human leukocyte antigen antibodies after pediatric liver transplantation
Authors: Tokodai Kazuaki , Miyagi Shigehito , Nakanishi Wataru , Nishimura Ryuichi , Fujio Atsushi , Goto Masafumi , Unno Michiaki , Kamei Takashi
Published: December 2019

Background

Donor‐specific HLA antibodies (DSAs) have detrimental effects on short‐ and long‐term outcomes after organ transplantation. Despite evidence that the complement‐binding capacity of DSAs has predictive power in kidney transplantation, its clinical impact during long‐term follow‐up after LT remains unclear. In this study, we assessed the complement‐binding capacities of DSAs and their association with histological findings.

Methods

In total, 72 patients who underwent pediatric LT at our institution between July 1991 and October 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. A subgroup analysis of histological findings was performed for 37 subjects who underwent liver graft biopsy. Patients were divided into two groups based on the degree of graft fibrosis, and clinical characteristics were assessed.

Results

All anti‐class I DSAs were C1q‐negative. Anti‐DR and anti‐DQ DSAs were identified in 34% and 41% of patients, respectively; however, only three of 25 patients with anti‐DR DSAs exhibited a positive C1q‐binding assay, whereas, 25 of 29 anti‐DQ DSAs showed C1q‐binding capacity. MFI values for DSA were significantly higher for patients with C1q‐binding capacity than for those without (P < .0001). Complement‐binding anti‐DR DSA was relatively rare in both groups. Regarding anti‐DQ DSA, there were no differences between fibrosis and non‐fibrosis groups, irrespective of complement‐binding capacity.

Conclusions

The association between anti‐DR DSA and liver fibrosis, which was supported in this cohort, was not strengthened but rather impaired when accounting for complement‐binding capacity due to low positive detection. Further studies of the association between complement‐binding anti‐DQ DSA and histological findings in LT are needed.
Reviewer Acknowledgements
Authors: Gibbs Nikki
Published: December 2019

Applied Economics and Finance (AEF) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether AEF publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 7, Number 1 Ayoub Taha Sidahmed, SIU, SudanHe Nie, Jinan University, ChinaIan McFarlane, University of Reading, UKIbrahim Baghdadi, Lebanese University, LebanonRajeev Rana, APB Govt. P.G. College, IndiaRichard Nguyen, Alliant International University, USARomeo Victor Ionescu, Dunarea de Jos University, RomaniaSteven V. Cates, Purdue University-Global, USAVictoria Cociug, Academy of Sciences of Moldova, Moldova
Direct Estimation of Surface Strain Fields From a Stereo Vision System
Authors: Boyle John J. , Pless Robert B. , Thomopoulos Stavros , Genin Guy M.
Published: December 2019

Estimating strain on surfaces of deforming three-dimensional (3D) structures is a critical need in experimental mechanics. Although single-camera techniques excel at estimating deformation on a surface parallel to the imaging plane, they are prone to artifact for 3D motion because they cannot distinguish between out-of-plane motion and in-plane dilatation. Multiview (e.g., stereo) camera systems overcome this via a three-step process consisting of: (1) independent surface registration, (2) triangulation to estimate surface displacements, and (3) deformation estimation. However, existing methods are prone to errors associated with numerical differentiation when computing estimating strain fields from displacement fields unless regularization schemes are used. Such regularization schemes can introduce inaccuracy into strain estimation. Inspired by previous work which combined registration and deformation estimation into a single step for 2D images and 3D imaging stacks, we developed a theory for simultaneous image registration, 3D triangulation, and deformation estimation in a multiview system. The deformation estimation does not require numerical differentiation of displacement fields to estimate strain fields. We present here the theoretical foundations and derivation of two related implementations of this approach, and discuss their strengths and weaknesses.
A Novel Radial Artery Line Simulation Training Model
Authors: Fletcher Brian P. , Wang Connor C. , Drougas James G. , Robinson William P.
Published: December 2019

With the growing Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) regulations, studies have increasingly reported decreased technical proficiencies by clinical trainees. One major way programs have addressed this is by adopting proficiency through simulation training. One such crucial technique is radial artery line cannulation, an invasive procedure performed by trainees across multiple medical disciplines. The objective of this project was to design a high-fidelity, pulsatile, automated radial artery line simulation model that supports ultrasound (US) guided insertion and pressure transduction that could potentially be used for technical skill development and training purposes. A radial artery line simulation model was designed using a pulsatile, arterial circuit with an alginate silicone cast molded artificial hand that supported cannulation under US guidance. The radial arterial circuit pressure was transduced to display a simulated arterial waveform and pressure. Five radial artery lines were successfully cannulated under US guidance followed by pressure transduction. The results, although qualitative, demonstrate a proof of concept. Further studies are needed to determine if the radial artery simulation model can be used as an educational tool to help train medical professionals.