bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of key genes and pathways in diabetic nephropathy by bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Geng Xiao‐dong , Wang Wei‐wei , Feng Zhe , Liu Ran , Cheng Xiao‐long , Shen Wan‐jun , Dong Zhe‐yi , Cai Guang‐yan , Chen Xiang‐mei , Hong Quan , Wu Di
Published: December 2018

Aims/Introduction

The aim of the present study was to identify candidate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and pathways using bioinformatics analysis, and to improve our understanding of the cause and potential molecular events of diabetic nephropathy.

Materials and Methods

Two cohort profile datasets (GSE30528 and GSE33744) were integrated and used for deep analysis. We sorted DEGs and analyzed differential pathway enrichment. DEG‐associated ingenuity pathway analysis was carried out. The screened gene expression feature was verified in the db/db mouse kidney cortex. Then, rat mesangial cells cultured with high‐concentration glucose were used for verification. The target genes of transcriptional factor E26 transformation‐specific‐1 (ETS1) were predicted with online tools and validated using chromatin immunoprecipitation assay quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The two GSE datasets identified 89 shared DEGs; 51 were upregulated; and 38 were downregulated. Most of the DEGs were significantly enriched in cell adhesion, the plasma membrane, the extracellular matrix and the extracellular region. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis validated the upregulated expression of Itgb2, Cd44, Sell, Fn1, Tgfbi and Il7r, and the downregulated expression of Igfbp2 and Cd55 in the db/db mouse kidney cortex. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay quantitative polymerase chain reaction showed that Itgb2 was the target gene of transcription factor Ets1. ETS1 knockdown in rat mesangial cells decreased integrin subunit beta 2 expression.

Conclusion

We found that EST1 functioned as an important transcription factor in diabetic nephropathy development through the promotion of integrin subunit beta 2 expression. EST1 might be a drug target for diabetic nephropathy treatment.
New cell lines for efficient propagation of koi herpesvirus and infectious salmon anaemia virus
Authors: Eckart Valentin , Yamaguchi Takuya , Franzke Kati , Bergmann Sven M. , Boudinot Pierre , Quillet Edwige , Kawanobe Motokazu , de Haro Neila Alvarez , Fischer Uwe
Published: December 2018

The production of piscine viruses, in particular of koi herpesvirus (KHV, CyHV‐3) and infectious salmon anaemia virus (ISAV), is still challenging due to the limited susceptibility of available cell lines to these viruses. A number of cell lines from different fish species were compared to standard diagnostic cell lines for KHV and ISAV regarding their capability to exhibit a cytopathic effect (CPE) and to accumulate virus. Two cell lines, so far undescribed, appeared to be useful for diagnostic purposes. Fr994, a cell line derived from ovaries of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), produced constantly high ISA virus (ISAV) titres and developed a pronounced CPE even at high cell passage numbers, while standard cell lines are reported to gradually loose these properties upon propagation. Another cell line isolated from the head kidney of common carp (Cyprinus carpio), KoK, showed a KHV induced CPE earlier than the standard cell line used for diagnostics. A third cell line, named Fin‐4, established from the fin epithelium of rainbow trout did not promote efficient replication of tested viruses, but showed antigen sampling properties and might be useful as an in vitro model for virus uptake or phagocytosis.
Predictors of Advance Care Planning in Older Women: The Nurses’ Health Study
Authors: Kang Jae H. , Bynum Julie P.W. , Zhang Lu , Grodstein Francine , Stevenson David G.
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Relatively little is known regarding predictors of advance care planning (ACP) in former nurses. We aimed to evaluate potential predictors of ACP documentation and discussion.

DESIGN

Cross‐sectional study, 2012‐2014.

SETTING

Nurses’ Health Study.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 60,917 community‐dwelling female nurses aged 66 to 93 years living across the United States.

MEASUREMENTS

Based on self‐reports, participants were categorized as having (1) only ACP documentation, (2) ACP documentation and a recent ACP discussion with a healthcare provider, or (3) neither. Multivariable log‐binomial models were used to estimate prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of the two separate ACP categories vs those with neither. We evaluated various demographic, health, and social factors.

RESULTS

The large majority (84%) reported ACP documentation; 35% reported a recent ACP discussion. Demographic factors such as age and race were associated with both ACP categories. In multivariable analyses, race was most strongly associated: compared with whites, African Americans were 27% less likely (PR = 0.73; 95% CI = 0.69‐0.78) to report ACP documentation alone and 41% (PR = 0.59; 95% CI = 0.54‐0.66) less likely to report documentation with discussion. Additionally, health/healthcare‐related characteristics were more strongly associated with ACP documentation plus discussion. Women with functional limitations (PR = 1.15; 95% CI = 1.10‐1.20), women who were recently hospitalized (PR: 1.10; 95% CI = 1.08‐1.12) or women who had seen a physician for health symptoms (PR = 1.43; 95% CI = 1.35‐1.52) or screening (PR = 1.40; 95% CI = 1.32‐1.49) were more likely to report having both ACP documentation and discussion. Social factors showed limited relationships with ACP documentation only; for documentation plus discussion, being widowed and living alone was associated with higher prevalence (PR = 1.21; 95% CI = 1.19‐1.24) and having little emotional support was associated with lower prevalence (PR = 0.84; 95% CI = 0.81‐0.86).

CONCLUSIONS

Among older nurses, most of whom reported having documented ACP, 35% reported recent patient‐clinician ACP discussions, indicating a major participatory gap in an element critical to ACP effectiveness. Even in nurses, African Americans reported less ACP documentation or discussion. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:292–301, 2019.
Age‐Normative MMSE Data for Older Persons Aged 85 to 93 in a Longitudinal Swedish Cohort
Authors: Kvitting Anna S. , Fällman Katarina , Wressle Ewa , Marcusson Jan
Published: December 2018

Background/Objectives

Normative Mini‐mental state examination (MMSE) reference values in elderly are scarce. Therefore, the aim is to present normative MMSE values for 85–93 year olds.

Design

A longitudinal age cohort study.

Setting

A population study of the residents in the municipality of Linköping, Sweden.

Participants

Residents (n = 650) born in 1922 during the course of 2007. In total, 374 individuals participated and were tested with MMSE at age 85, 280 of these were willing and able to also participate at age 86, 107 at age 90 and 51 at age 93.

Measurements

MMSE, from 0–30, with lower scores denoting more impaired cognition.

Results

Median MMSE values for the total population over the ages 85, 86, 90 and 93 years was 28 for all ages investigated. The 25th percentile values were 26, 26, 26 and 27, respectively. For a “brain healthy” sub‐group median values were 28, 29, 28, and 28. The 25th percentile values were 27, 28, 26 and 27, respectively. Comparisons for age‐effects showed no differences when all individuals for each age group were compared. When only the individuals reaching 93 years of age (n = 50) were analyzed, there was a significant lowering of MMSE in that age group.

Conclusion

The literature is variable and in clinical practice a low (24) MMSE cut off is often used for possible cognitive impairment in old age. The present data indicate that MMSE 26 is a reasonable cut off for possible cognitive decline in older persons up to the age of 93. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:534–538, 2019.
Intellectual, adaptive and behavioural characteristics in four patients with 18p deletion syndrome
Authors: Mello C. B. , Bueno O. F. A. , Benedetto L. M. , Pimenta L. S. E. , Takeno S. S. , Melaragno M. I. , Meloni V. A.
Published: December 2018

Background

The association of behavioural phenotype assessment with cytogenomic characterisation may provide a better comprehension of genotype–phenotype correlations in syndromes caused by chromosomal abnormalities, such as 18p deletion syndrome.

Method

We report on four Brazilian patients with 18p deletion syndrome characterised by cytogenomic techniques and detailed neuropsychological evaluation. Intellectual, adaptive and behavioural characteristics were assessed through the Wechsler's Scales, the Vineland‐II Scale and the Child Behaviour Checklist, respectively. Socio‐economic measures including main caretaker educational level and family income as defined by Brazilian criteria for social class classification were also collected to evaluate a possible contribution of environmental factors in neurocognitive variability.

Results

Two out of four patients showed intellectual disability (IQ < 70). Wechsler's scale results suggest that in our sample, interpretation of social situations based on observation of non‐verbal behaviour constitute a cognitive strength while judgement of social rules and language skills associated with word knowledge and verbal fluency may be a cognitive weakness. Concerning adaptive behaviour, motor and socialisation domains showed to better develop than communication and daily living skills on the Vineland‐II Scale. Only one patient presented internalising behavioural problems based on the Child Behaviour Checklist. Our results also suggested that socio‐economic status may contribute to overall patient development.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that some 18p deletion syndrome patients may present average intellectual performance and that the segment deletion size and some families' socio‐economic conditions may influence cognitive development.
EQUITY HOME BIAS: A REVIEW ESSAY
Authors: Ardalan Kavous
Published: December 2018

This paper reviews the relatively more recent literature on equity home bias – the empirical finding that people overinvest in domestic stocks relative to the optimal investment portfolio implied by the modern portfolio theory. It reviews six broad classes of explanation of this puzzling phenomenon: (1) hedging home risks; (2) barriers to foreign investments; (3) information asymmetries; and (4) behavioral factors. The consensus is that none of the explanations can account for the full extent of the bias by itself, thus the home bias should be explained by a combination of rational and behavioral factors.
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate as an independent prognostic marker for mortality: a prospective population‐based cohort study
Authors: Fest J. , Ruiter R. , Mooijaart S.P. , Ikram M. A. , van Eijck C. H. J. , Stricker B. H.
Published: December 2018

Background

A very high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is usually an indication of underlying pathology. Additionally, a moderately elevated ESR may also be attributable to biological ageing. Whether the ESR is a prognostic factor for mortality, regardless of age, has been scarcely investigated. Therefore, the objective was to analyse the association between elevated ESR levels and the risk of mortality in a prospective cohort of the general population.

Methods

We studied data from the Rotterdam Study (1990–2014). ESR levels were measured at baseline and individuals were followed until death or end of study. Associations between moderately (20–50 mm h−1) and markedly (>50 mm h−1) elevated ESR levels and all‐cause mortality were assessed using multivariate Cox proportional hazard models.

Results

In total, 5226 participants were included, and the mean age was 70.3 years. During a median follow‐up time of 14.9 years, 3749 participants died (71.7%). After adjustment, both a moderately elevated ESR and a markedly elevated ESR were associated with a significantly higher risk of overall mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 1.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.12–1.35 and HR 1.89, 95% CI 1.38–2.60, respectively]. Although the ESR becomes higher with age, in a group aged above 75 years, without any comorbidities, an ESR > 20 mm h−1 remained associated with a significantly increased risk of mortality (HR 1.29, 95%CI 1.01–1.64).

Conclusion

An elevated ESR is an independent prognostic factor for mortality. Despite the fact that ESR increases with age, it remains associated with an increased risk of mortality and warrants close follow‐up.
Determinants of emergency department utilization for non‐traumatic dental conditions in Massachusetts
Authors: Ranade Ashwini , Young Gary J. , Griffith John , Garcia Raul , Singhal Astha , McGuire Jean
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To study the determinants of emergency department (ED) utilization for non‐traumatic dental conditions (NTDCs) by adults in Massachusetts.

Methods

We analyzed patient‐level factors associated with ED utilization for NTDCs in Massachusetts during 2013, using the Massachusetts All Payer Claims Dataset. The primary independent variables of interest were use of preventive dental service in the year preceding the ED visit and dental insurance coverage. Key covariates included age, gender, income, day of the ED visit, payer type, and residing in a geographically designated dental health professional shortage area (DHPSA). A multilevel logistic regression model was used to estimate the odds of NTDC ED visits as compared to two other categories of ED visits.

Results

1.1 percent of all ED visits in Massachusetts were for NTDCs in 2013. Preventive dental service use in the preceding year decreased the odds (OR = 0.72) of a NTDC ED visit, whereas having dental insurance coverage increased the odds (OR = 1.1) of a NTDC ED visit. Other patient‐level characteristics that significantly increased odds of a NTDC ED visit included being between 26 and 35 years of age (OR = 1.2), male (OR = 1.3), uninsured (OR = 1.7) or enrolled in Medicaid (OR = 1.2), and visiting on a weekend (OR = 1.3).

Conclusions

Increased access to preventive dental services may lower likelihood of ED use for NTDCs. Interventions that target younger adults, Medicaid enrollees, and the uninsured, may be the most efficient way to lower NTDC ED use.
Molecular phylogenetics supports a clade of red algal parasites retaining native plastids: taxonomy and terminology revised
Authors: Salomaki Eric D. , Lane Christopher E.
Published: December 2018

Parasitism is a life strategy that has repeatedly evolved within the Florideophyceae. Historically, the terms adelphoparasite and alloparasite have been used to distinguish parasites based on the relative phylogenetic relationship of host and parasite. However, analyses using molecular phylogenetics indicate that nearly all red algal parasites infect within their taxonomic family, and a range of relationships exist between host and parasite. To date, all investigated adelphoparasites have lost their plastid, and instead, incorporate a host‐derived plastid when packaging spores. In contrast, a highly reduced plastid lacking photosynthesis genes was sequenced from the alloparasiteChoreocolax polysiphoniae. Here we present the completeHarveyella mirabilisplastid genome, which has also lost genes involved in photosynthesis, and a partial plastid genome fromLeachiella pacifica. TheH. mirabilisplastid shares more synteny with free‐living red algal plastids than that ofC. polysiphoniae. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrates thatC. polysiphoniae,H. mirabilis, andL. pacificaform a robustly supported clade of parasites, which retain their own plastid genomes, within the Rhodomelaceae. We therefore transfer all three genera from the exclusively parasitic family, Choreocolacaceae, to the Rhodomelaceae. Additionally, we recommend applying the terms archaeplastic parasites (formerly alloparasites), and neoplastic parasites (formerly adelphoparasites) to distinguish red algal parasites using a biological framework rather than taxonomic affiliation with their hosts.
Dynamics of Religious Group Growth and Survival
Authors: Chen Tongzhou , McBride Michael , Short Martin B.
Published: December 2018

We model and analyze the dynamics of religious group membership and size. A group is distinguished by its strictness, which determines how much time group members are expected to spend contributing to the group. Individuals differ in their rate of return for time spent outside of their religious group. We construct a utility function that individuals attempt to maximize, then find a Nash equilibrium for religious group participation with a heterogeneous population. We then model dynamics of group size by including birth, death, and switching of individuals between groups. Group switching depends on the strictness preferences of individuals and their probability of encountering members of other groups. We show that in the case of only two groups—one with finite strictness and the other with zero—there is a parameter combination that determines whether the nonzero strictness group can survive over time, which is more difficult at higher strictness levels. We also show that a high birth rate can allow even the strictest groups to survive. Finally, we consider cases of several groups, gaining insight into strategic choices of strictness values and displaying the rich behavior of the model.
Value Predicate Analysis: A Language‐Based Tool for Diagnosing Behavioral Tendencies of Religious or Value‐Based Groups in Regions of Conflict
Authors: Ochs Peter , Faizi Nauman , Teubner Jonathan , Moulvi Zain
Published: December 2018

This article introduces a language‐based tool for addressing the role of religion in violent conflicts. Value predicate analysis (VPA) is an easily transportable, relatively uncomplicated early warning tool for measuring the probable near‐future behavior of modest‐sized religious groups in settings of potential conflict. We show that it is possible to identify a range of nine types of probable group behavior toward other groups. This approach significantly refines current binary assessments of violent/not‐violent group conduct. The authors (1) provide a warrant for diagnosing religion‐group behavior through performative analysis; (2) present a theoretical overview of VPA; (3) summarize their research, data analysis, and field collection methods; (4) present field test results; and (5) conclude with recommendations for further research.
Use of multi‐criteria decision‐making for selecting spillway type and optimizing dimensions by applying the harmony search algorithm: Qeshlagh Dam Case Study
Authors: Hassanvand Mohammad R. , Karami Hojat , Mousavi Sayed‐Farhad
Published: December 2018

Economic considerations are significantly important in designing a dam and its related hydraulic structures. Considering the methods used for economic design of hydraulic structures such as a spillway, they are also dependent on the construction costs of the spillway. In addition to the spillway type and capacity being associated with the magnitude of floods. Selecting different options of a spillway, considering all their aspects, has always been one of the biggest issues in decision‐making. The present study determined the best spillway type (free‐flow, stepped, semicircular and cylindrical) for Qeshlagh Dam, Iran, by considering different aspects (costs, time and performance) and using the TOPSIS method. The obtained dimensions of the spillway from multi‐criteria decision‐making were then optimized using meta‐heuristic Harmony Search Algorithm (HSA). The results identified a free‐flow spillway was the best option in terms of cost and time, whereas a cylindrical spillway is the best choice in terms of performance. The optimal free‐flow spillway length is 31.8 m, and height is 3.45 m, being capable of passing a flood discharge of 452 m3/s. This discharge was calculated by a reservoir routing method. Moreover, the obtained solution led to reducing the spillway construction costs, one of the most important issues in civil engineering projects.
Nurses' organizational communication satisfaction, emotional labor, and prosocial service behavior: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kim Youngsoo , Jang Sun Joo
Published: December 2018

In this study, we investigated nurses' organizational communication satisfaction and emotional labor in an attempt to identify the factors that influence nurses' prosocial service behavior in Korea. A cross‐sectional study was conducted on 145 nurses at two Korean tertiary hospitals in 2017. Most participants (89%) were female, and the mean age was 28.45 ± 5.50 years; data analysis was mainly based on a multiple regression. It was consequently found that nurses' organizational communication satisfaction and emotional labor positively affected their prosocial service behavior. The potential benefits of emotional labor were also explored, and these variables were determined to explain 41.1% of the variance in prosocial service behavior. These findings provide evidence that organizational communication satisfaction and emotional labor in nurses can have significant effects on their prosocial service behavior.
Benchmarking life quality support interventions in long‐term care using the Long‐Term Care Quality of Life scale
Authors: McDonald Tracey , Shaw Douglas
Published: December 2018

We aimed to develop a graphical procedure for benchmarking quality of life care results using the Long‐Term Care Quality of Life (LTC‐QoL) scale. While clinical care quality benchmarking is now well established, similar research for quality of life (QOL) aged care benchmarking has received scant attention. Data from 10 facilities utilizing the LTC‐QoL scale were analysed to establish baseline statistics for developing a graphical procedure for QOL benchmarking. Client LTC‐QoL records were tested with varimax rotation factor analysis revealing three viable benchmarking themes: B1 (Self‐efficacy), B2 (supporting relationships), and B3 (outlook on life) were selected for benchmark development utilizing Analysis of Means to generate graphical outputs using Minitab version 17.3.1. In this way, in the absence of verified industry standards, it is possible to compare organizations providing similar services using the same indicators, against group averages.

In conclusion, the benchmarking protocol produced comparative information on three benchmarks for 10 facilities. Similar analysis is feasible for a single facility over time. The results of these analyses provide evidence for on‐site discussion of quality of life care quality performance.
A review of interventions supporting parent's psychological well‐being after a child's intensive care unit discharge
Authors: Bedford Zoe C , Bench Suzanne
Published: December 2018

Background

Having a child admitted to a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is a highly stressful experience, and post‐traumatic stress among parents is well documented. How best to support these parents is currently unclear.

Aim

To review research on interventions to support the psychological well‐being of parents after their child's discharge from paediatric intensive care.

Methods

Searches were conducted using Medline, PsycINFO, PubMed, CINAHL and The Cochrane library in January 2017. Study selection was carried out using pre‐specified criteria. Following appraisal of methodological quality and risk of bias, data were extracted and analysed using a narrative synthesis.

Results

Six quantitative studies met the inclusion criteria. Intervention types included follow‐up appointments, telephone calls, educational information and post‐admission interviews. Insufficient evidence was found to fully support any intervention in isolation, but findings support a clear trend that some form of follow up is beneficial.

Conclusions

Testing costly interventions is challenging and takes time. In the meantime, a low‐cost intervention (such as an information leaflet) to raise awareness of potential problems in staff and to provide a support resource for parents is recommended.

Relevance to clinical practice

Parents and carers of children admitted to PICU can develop post‐traumatic stress symptoms after their child's discharge from PICU. This article addresses how best to support these parents to improve their psychological well‐being.
Quantitative trait locus mapping for seed artificial aging traits using an F2:3 population and a recombinant inbred line population crossed from two highly related maize inbreds
Authors: Liu Yanan , Zhang Hongwei , Li Xuhui , Wang Feng , Lyle Demar , Sun Lianjun , Wang Guoying , Wang Jianhua , Li Li , Gu Riliang
Published: December 2018

Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping for seed longevity is essential for breeding modern cultivars with resistance to deterioration during postharvest storage. The inbred lines X178 and I178 showed large differences in seed vigour after artificial aging treatment, while they had similar performances in terms of most agronomic traits. An F2:3 population and a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population were generated to map QTL after 5 days under artificial aging conditions. Positive correlations were observed among all investigated traits including the aging germination rate, relative aging germination rate, aging simple vigour index, aging primary root length, aging shoot length and aging total length. Thirteen QTL were identified to locate on five chromosome regions: Chr.1:297 Mb (chromosome 1 region 297 Mb), Chr.3:205 Mb, Chr.4:240 Mb, Chr.5:205 Mb and Chr.7:155 Mb, with 2 to 4 QTL co‐located on a region. In each region, 3–8 previously identified aging‐related QTL were located, confirming the importance of these regions for controlling seed longevity in different maize populations. Taken together, the results of this work provide a foundation for further QTL fine mapping and the molecular‐assisted breeding of aging tolerant maize.
Classic pseudoxanthoma elasticum in a girl with sickle cell disease
Authors: Mitre Victoria , Brown Danielle , Phung Thuy , Hunt Raegan D.
Published: December 2018

A pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE)–like phenotype develops in a subset of patients with inherited hemoglobinopathies. Although PXE tissue changes are thought to develop in the absence of ABCC6 mutations in patients with beta‐thalassemia, ABCC6 mutations have not been well evaluated among sickle cell disease patients with PXE‐like disease. To our knowledge, we describe the first patient with sickle cell disease, PXE skin findings, and two confirmed pathogenic ABCC6 mutations. This case suggests that ABCC6 testing is warranted for sickle cell disease patients with the PXE‐like phenotype and that the pathogenesis of PXE manifestations in beta‐thalassemia and sickle cell disease may differ.
The impact of relationship‐contingent self‐esteem on mate retention and reactions to threat
Authors: Holden Christopher J. , Zeigler‐Hill Virgil , Shackelford Todd K. , Welling Lisa L. M.
Published: December 2018

Relationship‐contingent self‐esteem (RCSE) refers to when feelings of self‐worth are derived from romantic relationships. RCSE influences views of the self and the functioning of romantic relationships. The relationship between RCSE and mate retention behaviors was examined across three studies. Study 1 examined whether self‐esteem level and RCSE predicted mate retention behaviors. Studies 2 and 3 examined whether self‐esteem level and RCSE predicted mate retention behaviors following manipulations of threat to the relationship. Individuals with high RCSE were more likely to engage in benefit‐provisioning mate retention behaviors, particularly following certain threats. RCSE was also associated with cost‐inflicting mate retention behaviors, but these associations were inconsistent.
INPUT: An academic–practice partnership to an underserved rural community
Authors: Neubrander Judy , Franzen Susan R. , Mathis Rebecca
Published: December 2018

The INPUT project is a model partnership that changed the way health care was offered to the underserved in rural Western North Carolina. Grant funding provided a full‐time Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) to a free clinic and created clinical placements for FNP students. Students had opportunities to learn about unique aspects of care for vulnerable, underserved populations to encourage them to consider working in rural communities. The clinic saw an increase in patient visits and offered more continuity in follow‐up care. This academic–practice partnership represents a successful example of how working together can benefit the collaborators and community.
The Duty to Object
Authors: Lackey Jennifer
Published: December 2018

We have the duty to object to things that people say. If you report something that I take to be false, unwarranted, or harmful, I may be required to say as much. In this paper, I explore how to best understand the distinctively epistemic dimension of this duty. I begin by highlighting two central features of this duty that distinguish it from others, such as believing in accordance with the evidence or promise‐keeping. In particular, I argue that whether we are obligated to object is directly influenced not only by what other relevant members of the conversational context or community do, but also by the social status of the agent in question. I then show that these features are shared by the duty to be charitable, and the similarities between these two duties point to a potentially deeper explanation: while promise‐keeping is regarded as a classic perfect duty, charity is an imperfect one. I then argue that the duty to object can be modeled on a particular conception of imperfect duties, one that takes the duty to belong to communities and other collectives, rather than to individuals. I conclude by showing that this framework provides us with reason for accepting that there are imperfect epistemic duties in general.
The Call for a Shift from Risk to Resilience: What Does it Mean?
Authors: Aven Terje
Published: December 2018

In recent years calls have been made for a shift from risk to resilience. The basic idea is that we need to be prepared when threatening events occur, whether they are anticipated or unforeseen. This article questions the extent to which this call will have and should have implications for the risk field and science. Is the call based on a belief that this field and science should be replaced by resilience analysis and management, or is it more about priorities: Should more weight be placed on improving resilience? The article argues that the only meaningful interpretation of the call is the latter. Resilience analysis and management is today an integrated part of the risk field and science, and risk analysis in a broad sense is needed to increase relevant knowledge, develop adequate policies, and make the right decisions, balancing different concerns and using our limited resources in an effective way.
Science for Policy: A Case Study of Scientific Polarization, Values, and the Framing of Risk and Uncertainty
Authors: Mason‐Renton Sarah , Vazquez Marco , Robinson Connor , Oberg Gunilla
Published: December 2018

It is well documented that more research can lead to hardened positions, particularly when dealing with complex, controversial, and value‐laden issues. This study is an attempt to unveil underlying values in a contemporary debate, where both sides use scientific evidence to support their argument. We analyze the problem framing, vocabulary, interpretation of evidence, and policy recommendations, with particular attention to the framing of nature and technology. We find clear differences between the two arguments. One side stress that there is no evidence that the present approach is causing harm to humans or the environment, does not ruminate on uncertainties to that end, references nature's ability to handle the problem, and indicates distrust in technological solutions. In contrast, the other side focuses on uncertainties, particularly the lack of knowledge about potential environmental effects and signals trust in technological development and human intervention as the solution. Our study suggests that the two sides’ diverging interpretations are tied to their perception of nature: vulnerable to human activities versus robust and able to handle human impacts. The two sides also seem to hold diverging views of technology, but there are indications that this might be rooted in their perception of governance and economy rather than about technology per se. We conclude that there is a need to further investigate how scientific arguments are related to worldviews, to see how (if at all) worldview typologies can help us to understand how value‐based judgments are embedded in science advice, and the impact these have on policy preferences.
SOCIAL CAPITAL, GEOGRAPHICAL DISTANCE AND TRANSACTION COSTS: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF SOCIAL NETWORKS IN AFRICAN RURAL AREAS
Authors: Abbay Aradom Gebrekidan , Rutten Roel P. J. H. , Graaf Paul M. De
Published: December 2018

This paper uses spatial economic data from the northern part of Ethiopia to investigate the cost minimizing capacity of social networking, which has not been sufficiently explored from a spatial perspective. Following identification of the domains of transaction costs that could be minimized, a propensity score matching technique is applied to estimate the effects of rural households’ participation in social networking for minimizing such costs. While framing the analysis from the perspective of rural households’ spatial proximity to a small town, the paper hypothesizes active participation in social networking as a mechanism for reducing transaction costs. It is evident from the results that active participation in social networking is a significant factor for minimizing the transaction costs incurred by households who live in relatively rural hinterlands. This confers an alternative option for rural people to improve their livelihoods in cases where geographical proximity to towns offers no advantage.
Who Holds Populist Attitudes? Evidence from Switzerland
Authors: Bernhard Laurent , Hänggli Regula
Published: December 2018

So far, populism has mainly been studied by looking at the political supply side. This contribution focuses on the political demand side by explaining citizens’ levels of support for populist attitudes. We formulate two competing hypotheses. The first hypothesis expects populist attitudes to be most pervasive on the ideological extremes, while the second one posits that individuals are more likely to hold these attitudes the more to the right of the political spectrum they position themselves. Our empirical analysis of a representative survey of the Swiss Electoral Study (SELECTS) supports the second hypothesis. We argue that this right‐sided orientation among Swiss citizens can be attributed to context characteristics that are currently available in the northern part of Western Europe (i.e. the absence of a long‐lasting economic crisis, the high saliency of identity politics, and a strong populist mobilization by the radical right).
Thalassaemia in Iran: Thalassaemia prevention and blood adequacy for thalassaemia treatment
Authors: Pourfathollah Ali Akbar , Hadipour Dehshal Mahmoud
Published: December 2018

Thalassaemia major is a hereditary disease mostly prevalent in the region called ‘thalassaemia belt’. Iran is one of the countries situated in thalassaemia belt. Four per cent of Iranian population is the carriers of beta‐thalassaemia gene. So far 18 783 major thalassaemics have been registered in Iran, and this number is the highest registered figure for thalassaemia among the world countries. The thalassaemia prevention program has started since 1995 in Iran that has led to a significant decrease in newborn cases so that the downward rate of new thalassaemia births was estimated to be 82·3% in 2009; this is a considerable success among developing Islamic countries. Iran enjoys a national blood network that ensures blood adequacy for thalassaemics. All blood donations are donated by voluntary blood donors, and the rate of blood donations by regular voluntary blood donors reached 54·07% in 2016. In recent years, through the care provided and measures taken the prevalence rate of HCV and HIV has declined the lowest level and it makes blood safety in Iran abreast of that in developed countries. Given the success of thalassaemia prevention program in Iran and blood adequacy for thalassaemics, Iran can act as the role model for the countries located on thalassaemia belt particularly in the Middle East and the North Africa.
Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus in urban Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) populations: Epidemiology and the impacts of kill‐trapping
Authors: Lee Michael J. , Byers Kaylee A. , Donovan Christina M. , Zabek Erin , Stephen Craig , Patrick David M. , Himsworth Chelsea G.
Published: December 2018

Urban Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) populations can carry the bacteria methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). There are numerous knowledge gaps in the epidemiology of MRSA in these populations that limit understanding of its ecology in urban environments. For example, fecal shedding of MRSA, which may increase environmental contamination, has been reported in other species; however, it is unknown whether Norway rats carry the bacteria rectally. Furthermore, while intermittent MRSA shedding has been shown in other species and may dictate when the risk of transmission is highest, duration of carriage has not been examined for Norway rats. Previous work has shown that lethal animal‐control methods may increase the level of pathogens within reservoir populations, possibly by disrupting ecological patterns. However, the impact of rodent‐control on potentially environmentally acquired pathogens like MRSA has not been tested. Using capture‐mark‐recapture methods in an inner‐city neighborhood in Vancouver, Canada, we show that rats intermittently carry MRSA both in the rectum and oropharynx. By assessing the prevalence of MRSA before and after enacting a pest‐control intervention, we report that kill‐trapping had no impact on the prevalence of carriage of this environmentally‐acquired agent.
Metodología de estudio de eventos como medición del impacto del dictamen del revisor fiscal en el mercado accionario colombiano en 2009-2016
Authors: Gutiérrez Castañeda Belky Esperanza , Barrera Montoya Carlos Andrés
Published: December 2018

El fortalecimiento de un mercado accionario está relacionado directamente con la transparencia y la confiabilidad de la información disponible para los usuarios de estos mercados. Con este fin, el revisor fiscal ejerce una de sus funciones, que es el de divulgar la situación administrativa y financiera de la empresa a través del informe del revisor fiscal, convirtiéndose este informe en un garante de la realidad económica de las empresas, al verificar la ausencia de errores y fraudes en las informaciones financieras que estosusuarios reciben. A pesar de la importancia social de los revisores fiscales en el contexto colombiano, aún no se ha cuantificado el verdadero impacto de su trabajo en el mercado accionario, representado por la Bolsa de Valores de Colombia (BVC); como respuesta a la falta de esta medición, en Colombia, de la importancia e impacto que el informe del revisor fiscal pueda ejercer en el contexto empresarial y en los inversionistas, fue que se realizó esta investigación, en la cual se quiere evaluar, a través de la metodología de estudio de eventos, el efecto que el informe emitido por el revisor fiscal ejerce en relación con el dictamen de losestados financieros y su influencia en el comportamiento del precio de 127 empresas durante el periodo 2009-2016, negociadas en la BVC. Los resultados evidencian que el informe de revisoría fiscal, en conjunto con algunas variables de los estados financieros, no genera efectos significativos en los retornos esperados de las empresas que cotizan en BVC, al realizar un análisis de forma general y por sectores económicos. En conclusión, se demuestra, por medio de pruebas estadísticas, que no existe una relación significativaentre la emisión y la divulgación del informe del revisor fiscal y la volatilidad o retorno anormal que influya en la dinámica del mercado accionario.
Rapid Parallel Evolution of Azole Fungicide Resistance in Australian Populations of the Wheat Pathogen
Zymoseptoria tritici
Authors: McDonald Megan C. , Renkin Melanie , Spackman Merrin , Orchard Beverley , Croll Daniel , Solomon Peter S. , Milgate Andrew
Published: December 2018

Fungicides are essential to control diseases in agriculture because many crops are highly susceptible to pathogens. However, many pathogens rapidly evolve resistance to fungicides. A large body of studies have described specific mutations conferring resistance and have often made inferences about the origins of resistance based on sequencing data from the target gene alone. Here, we show the
de novo
acquisition of resistance to the ubiquitously used azole fungicides in genetically isolated populations of the wheat pathogen
Zymoseptoria tritici
in Tasmania, Australia. We confirm evidence for parallel evolution through genome-scale analyses of representative worldwide populations. The emergence of complex resistance haplotypes following a well-documented recent introduction of azoles into Australian farming practices demonstrates how rapidly chemical resistance evolves in agricultural ecosystems.
Resistance Gene Carriage Predicts Growth of Natural and Clinical
Escherichia coli
Isolates in the Absence of Antibiotics
Authors: Allen Richard C. , Angst Daniel C. , Hall Alex R.
Published: December 2018

Managing the spread of antibiotic resistance in bacterial pathogens is a major challenge for global public health. Central to this challenge is understanding whether resistance is linked to impaired bacterial growth in the absence of antibiotics, because this determines whether resistance declines when bacteria are no longer exposed to antibiotics. We studied 92 isolates of the key bacterial pathogen
Escherichia coli
; these isolates varied in both their antibiotic resistance genes and other parts of the genome. Taking this approach, rather than focusing on individual genetic changes associated with resistance as in much previous work, revealed that growth without antibiotics was linked to the number of specialized resistance genes carried and the combination of antibiotics to which isolates were resistant but was not linked to average antibiotic resistance. This approach provides new insights into the genetic factors driving the long-term persistence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which is important for future efforts to predict and manage resistance.
The Protozoan
Trichomonas vaginalis
Targets Bacteria with Laterally Acquired NlpC/P60 Peptidoglycan Hydrolases
Authors: Pinheiro Jully , Biboy Jacob , Vollmer Waldemar , Hirt Robert P. , Keown Jeremy R. , Artuyants Anastasiia , Black Moyra M. , Goldstone David C. , Simoes-Barbosa Augusto
Published: December 2018

Trichomonas vaginalis
is a parasitic protozoan of the human urogenital tract that causes trichomoniasis, a very common sexually transmitted disease. Despite residing extracellularly and in close association with the vaginal bacteria (i.e., the microbiota), very little is known about the nature of the parasite-bacterium interactions. Our study showed that this parasite had acquired genes from bacteria which retained their original function. They produce active enzymes capable of degrading peptidoglycan, a unique polymer of the bacterial cell envelope, helping the parasite to outcompete bacteria in mixed cultures. This study was the first to show that a laterally acquired group of genes enables a eukaryotic mucosal pathogen to control bacterial population. We highlight the importance of understanding the interactions between pathogens and microbiota, as the outcomes of these interactions are increasingly understood to have important implications on health and disease.
Chemical Synergy between Ionophore PBT2 and Zinc Reverses Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: Bohlmann Lisa , De Oliveira David M. P. , El-Deeb Ibrahim M. , Brazel Erin B. , Harbison-Price Nichaela , Ong Cheryl-lynn Y. , Rivera-Hernandez Tania , Ferguson Scott A. , Cork Amanda J. , Phan Minh-Duy , Soderholm Amelia T. , Davies Mark R. , Nimmo Graeme R. , Dougan Gordon , Schembri Mark A. , Cook Gregory M. , McEwan Alastair G. , von Itzstein Mark , McDevitt Christopher A. , Walker Mark J.
Published: December 2018

The rise of bacterial antibiotic resistance coupled with a reduction in new antibiotic development has placed significant burdens on global health care. Resistant bacterial pathogens such as methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
and vancomycin-resistant
Enterococcus
are leading causes of community- and hospital-acquired infection and present a significant clinical challenge. These pathogens have acquired resistance to broad classes of antimicrobials. Furthermore,
Streptococcus pyogenes
, a significant disease agent among Indigenous Australians, has now acquired resistance to several antibiotic classes. With a rise in antibiotic resistance and reduction in new antibiotic discovery, it is imperative to investigate alternative therapeutic regimens that complement the use of current antibiotic treatment strategies. As stated by the WHO Director-General, “On current trends, common diseases may become untreatable. Doctors facing patients will have to say, Sorry, there is nothing I can do for you.”
Clustering of malignant pleural mesothelioma in asbestos factories: a subgroup analysis in a 29-year follow-up study to identify high-risk industries in Taiwan
Authors: Lee Lukas Jyuhn-Hsiarn , Lin Cheng-Kuan , Pan Chih-Hong , Cheng Yawen , Chang Yu-Yin , Liou Saou-Hsing , Wang Jung-Der
Published: December 2018

Objective

Exposure to asbestos is the major cause for malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM), but the causal link of individual cases is difficult to establish for lack of exposure information and long disease latency.

Methods

We established a retrospective cohort of workers employed in asbestos industries during the period of 1950–1989 and the occurrence of MPM during the period of 1980–2009 was examined with the Taiwan Cancer Registry. Estimated rate ratios (eRRs) were computed for each factory where any case of MPM was diagnosed by assuming Poisson distribution with a minimal latency of 20 years.

Results

A total of 18 MPM (17 males, 1 female) in eight factories were found. The incidence rate of MPM for the eight factories was 18.0 per million, ranging from 6.2 per million (military factory) to 268.2 per million (asbestos cement). We observed significantly increased risks for MPM in asbestos cement, thermal insulation and shipbuilding industries, with eRR (genders combined) of 113.6, 87.5 and 15.8, respectively. The sensitivity analyses considering latency showed similar findings in latency≥30 years, and the shipbuilding industry presented a significant eRR given a latency≥40 years. The gender-specific eRR showed similar results in men, but high eRR of 729.6 was observed in an asbestos cement factory where a female MPM was diagnosed.

Conclusions

This nationwide study in Taiwan comprehensively shows that different asbestos manufacturing processes, including asbestos cement, thermal insulation and shipbuilding industries, were at significantly increased risks for MPM. We recommend to establish a medical screening programme for workers previously exposed to asbestos to identify MPM and other asbestos-related diseases at an earlier stage.