bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small‐p politics: how pleasurable, convivial and pragmatic political ideals influence engagement in eat‐local initiatives
Authors: Kennedy Emily Huddart , Johnston Josée , Parkins John R.
Published: August 2017

Non‐confrontational engagement practices like ethical consumption are a popular form of everyday politics. Existing research into these practices offers positive evaluations (highlighting the value of everyday engagement in public life) and critical perspectives (questioning whether myriad small acts can address structural barriers to equity and sustainability). Meanwhile, less emphasis has been placed on understanding the underlying ideals and motivations for political action that seeks to avoid traditional politics. In order to advance such understanding, this case study uses participant observation and semi‐structured interviews with 57 individuals whose daily paid or unpaid leadership roles shape eat‐local initiatives. We find that in the local food realm, participants idealize pleasurable, convivial and pragmatic engagement and these ideals culminate in a particular form of everyday action we term ‘small‐p politics’. The paper offers a theoretically and empirically informed investigation of non‐traditional political engagement in eat‐local movements, concluding that it emerges from a site where: (a) cultural change is prioritized above contentious politics; (b) rejecting traditional political activity is linked with achieving tangible outcomes; and (c) consumers are deemed the ideal agents of change. Non‐traditional politics play a prominent role in the landscape of contemporary civic engagement. This research advances our existing knowledge of such practices by providing a thick description of the political ideals that endorse consumption‐based approaches to change in the realm of local food.
The Science of Impact and the Impact of Agricultural Science
Authors: Midmore Peter
Published: August 2017

Research impact and its measurement are of increasing importance. This is particularly significant for agricultural science, which is expected to produce solutions to future challenges that will arise from population growth, climate change and ecosystem degradation. Much econometric effort has been devoted to analysis of investment in agricultural research and its effects on farm productivity. This analysis, reviewed here, has produced a consensus suggesting that returns are high, although they are achieved only after long lags. However, policy‐makers perceive the occurrence of impacts as too few, and poorly targeted with respect to their needs. An attribution gap between the outcomes of agricultural research and how they reach farmers has motivated evaluation of the process of transmission and translation of agricultural research outputs into ultimate impacts. This gap can be narrowed by Participatory Impact Pathway Analysis, implemented mostly so far in low income countries. However, it is a costly and cognitively complex approach. Content analysis of the UK's 2014 REF Impact Case Studies uncovers the mind set of researchers and their managers regarding the description of impact and how it is supposed to occur. This reveals a nascent conservatism that focuses on research that can be shown to have impact, rather than research impact itself. From the overall discussion it can be concluded that the impact evaluation of agricultural science raises more profound issues than simply efficiency or transparency. Confirmation bias threatens impact evaluation, principally by distracting from other important stories about how and why the ultimate effects occur, but also by transforming the nature of the process itself. Methodological pluralism, with greater integration and triangulation between different evaluation approaches, is a promising means of resolving these problems.
Cell lines from diamondback moth exhibiting differential susceptibility to baculovirus infection and expressing midgut genes
Authors: Ma Xiao‐Li , He Wei‐Yi , Wang Ping , You Min‐Sheng
Published: August 2017

Six new cell lines were established from embryonic tissues of the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.). The cell lines showed differential characteristics, including growth in attachment or in suspension, susceptibility to a baculovirus infection and expression of genes involved in the glucosinolate detoxification pathway in P. xylostella larvae. Five of the cell lines grew attached to the culture flask and one cell line grew unattached as a suspension cell line. The cell lines had population doubling times ranging from 18 to 23 h. Among five of the P. xylostella cell lines examined for infection of a nucleopolyhedrovirus from Autographa californica, AcMNPV, four cell lines were highly susceptible to AcMNPV infection, but one was only semi‐permissive to AcMNPV infection. The production of two recombinant proteins, a β‐galactosidase of bacterial origin and a secreted alkaline phosphatase of eukaryotic origin, in the P. xylostella cell lines was examined in comparison with that in the cell line Sf9 which is commonly used for recombinant protein production. In the P. xylostella cell lines, expression of three important midgut genes involved in the glucosinolate detoxification pathway, including the glucosinolate sulfatase genes GSS1 and GSS2 and the sulfatase modifying factor gene SUMF1, was detected. The P. xylostella cell lines developed in this study could be useful in in vitro research systems for studying insec–virus interactions and complex molecular mechanisms in glucosinolate detoxification and insect–plant interactions.
Late Miocene Pods and Leaves of Albizzia (Leguminosae: Mimosoideae) from Yunnan, SW China and Their Phytogeographic Implications
Authors: LI Binke , XIE Sanping , ZHANG Sihang , CHEN Tianyu , SHAO Yang
Published: August 2017

Albizzia is a leguminous genus belonging to the subfamily Mimosoideae with approximately 150 modern species, widely distributed in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, Australia and America. Among them, 17 species are mainly distributed in southern and southwestern China. Abundant fossils of the subfamily Mimosoideae, including leaves, pods, flowers and wood, have been reported from the Cretaceous and Paleogene strata of the Northern Hemisphere. However, Neogene records of Mimosoideae are relatively scarce. In this study, fossil pods and leaves belonging to the genus Albizzia from the Bangmai Formation of Yunnan, China were described. They were assigned to three species, including Albizzia scalpelliformis Guo, Li and Xie Emended, Albizzia cf. kalkora (Roxb.) Prain and Albizzia sp. The occurrence of Albizzia fossils from Lincang not only gives important information on the Neogene plant diversity from Yunnan—a worldwide famous biological hotspot—but also provides additional evidence for its phytogeographic history.
Oxidation and Mineralization of Mn2+ Ions Mediated by Pseudomonas putida: Insights from an Experimental Study
Authors: CHEN Xiaoye , LU Xiancai , LIU Huan , LI Juan , XIANG Wanli , ZHANG Rui , LU Jianjun
Published: August 2017

The formation of manganese oxides in nature is commonly mediated by microorganisms. In this study, the mineralization of biogenic manganese oxidation mediated by Pseudomanas putida has been experimentally investigated by employing various characterization techniques, including SEM, FESEM, TEM, XRD, and STXM‐NEXAFS. The results indicate that Mn2+ ions can be oxidized into Mn (IV) minerals (birnessite and pyrolusite) and Mn(III) minerals (hausmannite and feitknechtite), successively. The primary products (birnessite and pyrolusite) further transformed into hausmannite and feitknechtite under Mn2+ ion‐enriched conditions. However, birnessite and pyrolusite are the end‐products of the continuous microbial oxidation processes. These biogenic Mn oxides are poorly crystallized, which provides them with a high potential for usage in environmental restoration of contaminated soils and waters contaminated with heavy metals. The approaches employed in this study will also enrich genesis research of biological oxidation of Mn(II) species in nature.
Zircon U–Pb Geochronology and Geochemistry of the Early Cretaceous Volcanic Rocks from the Manitu Formation in the Hongol Area, Northeastern Inner Mongolia
Authors: ZHANG Xiangxin , SU Zhen , GAO Yongfeng
Published: August 2017

We undertook zircon U–Pb dating and geochemical analyses of volcanic rocks from the Manitu Formation in the Hongol area, northeastern Inner Mongolia, to determine their age, petrogenesis and sources, which are important for understanding the Late Mesozoic tectonic evolution of the Great Xing'an Range. The volcanic rocks of the Manitu Formation from the Hongol area consist primarily of trachyandesite, based on their chemical compositions. The zircons from two of these trachyandesites are euhedral–subhedral in shape, display clear oscillatory growth zoning and have high Th/U ratios (0.31–1.15), indicating a magmatic origin. The results of LA‐ICP‐MS zircon U–Pb dating indicate that the volcanic rocks from the Manitu Formation in the Hongol area formed during the early Early Cretaceous with ages of 138.9–140.5 Ma. The volcanic rocks are high in alkali (Na2O + K2O = 6.22–8.26 wt%), potassium (K2O = 2.49–4.58 wt%) and aluminium (Al2O3 = 14.27–15.88 wt%), whereas they are low in iron (total Fe2O3 = 3.76–6.53 wt%) and titanium (TiO2 = 1.02–1.61 wt%). These volcanic rocks are obviously enriched in large ion lithophile elements, such as Rb, Ba, Th and U, and light rare earth elements, and are depleted in high field strength elements, such as Nb, Ta and Ti with pronounced negative anomalies. Their Sr–Nd–Pb isotopic compositions show positive ∊Nd(t) (+0.16‰ to+1.64‰) and low TDM(t) (694–767 Ma). The geochemical characteristics of these volcanic rocks suggest that they belong to a shoshonitic series and were likely generated from the partial melting of an enriched lithospheric mantle that was metasomatised by fluids released from a subducted slab during the closure of the Mongol–Okhotsk Ocean. Elemental and isotopic features reveal that fractional crystallization with the removal of ferromagnesian minerals, plagioclase, ilmenite, magnetite and apatite played an important role during the evolution of the magma. These shoshonitic rocks were produced by the partial melting of the enriched lithospheric mantle in an extensional regime, which resulted from the gravitational collapse following the final closure of the Mongol–Okhotsk Ocean in the Middle–Late Jurassic.
Restoration of Eroded Thickness of the Neogene Strata in the Western Qaidam Basin and Its Significance for Oil and Gas Occurrence
Authors: SUN Ping , GUO Zeqing , HE Wenyuan , LIU Weihong
Published: August 2017

During the Pleistocene, the western Qaidam Basin has largely experienced strong structural reconstruction and strong erosion. First, the eroded thickness of Neogene strata was restored approximately by the stratigraphic profile comparison method and plane trend surface restoring method; then, accurate calculation of erosion was recovered using vitrinite reflectance, and the erosion that was restored by the trend surface restoring method was corrected; finally, a distribution map of cumulative erosion was produced. This study marks an important achievement in that one of the most important parameters of basin tectonic evolution, sedimentary evolution, and oil and gas accumulation history has been obtained, and that a basic geological problem has been solved in the Qaidam Basin. The areas with high erosion and low erosion are shown in the map and a close relation between the distribution of oil and gas fields and erosion was recognized. Large and medium oil and gas fields are mainly distributed in areas with medium and low erosion. It is difficult to form large‐scale oil and gas accumulation in areas in which erosion is more than 2000 m. The mechanism of the relation between oil and gas distribution and erosion is explained. This study will be of use in predicting the distribution of oil and gas.
A Combination of N2 and CO2 Adsorption to Characterize Nanopore Structure of Organic‐Rich Lower Silurian Shale in the Upper Yangtze Platform, South China: Implications for Shale Gas Sorption Capacity
Authors: CHEN Lei , JIANG Zhenxue , LIU Keyu , GAO Fenglin , WANG Pengfei
Published: August 2017

The pores in shales are mainly of nanometer‐scale, and their pore size distribution is very important for the preservation and exploitation of shale gas. This study focused on the organic‐rich Lower Silurian black shale from four wells in the Upper Yangtze Platform, and their TOC, mineralogical composition and pore characterization were investigated. Low pressure N2 and CO2 adsorption were conducted at 77.35 K and 273.15 K, respectively, and the pore structures were characterized by modified Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET), Dubinin‐Radushkevich (DR), t‐plot, Barrett‐Joyner‐Halenda (BJH) and density functional theory (DFT) methods and then the relationship between pore structure and shale gas sorption capacity was discussed. The results indicate that (1) The Lower Silurian shale has high TOC content of 0.92%–4.96%, high quartz content of 30.6%–69.5%, and high clays content of 24.1%–51.2%. The total specific surface area varies from 7.56 m2/g to 25.86 m2/g. Both the total specific surface area and quartz content are positively associated with the TOC content. (2) Shale samples with higher TOC content have more micropores, which results in more complex nanopore structure. Micropore volumes/surface areas and non‐micropore surface areas all increase with the increasing TOC content. (3) A combination of N2 and CO2 adsorption provides the most suitable detection range (∼0.3–60 nm) and has high reliability and accuracy for nanopore structure characterization. (4) The TOC content is the key factor to control the gas sorption capacity of the Lower Silurian shale in the Upper Yangtze Platform.
Turbidite Events Recorded in Deep‐sea Core IR‐GC1 off Western Sumatra: Evidence from Grain‐size Distribution
Authors: QIU Zhongyan , HAN Xiqiu , WANG Yejian
Published: August 2017

Sediment core IR‐GC1, from the abyssal basin of the Indian Ocean off Sumatra, may provide important information on depositional events related to earthquakes and tsunamis. In this study, based on a combination of grain‐size analysis with lithological studies and oxygen isotope stratigraphy, seven deep‐sea turbidite layers were identified, corresponding to seven turbidity events that occurred at 128–130, 105–107, 98–100, 86–87, 50–53, 37–41 and 20–29 ka. The sediments of the turbidite deposits are characterized by coarse grain sizes, poor sorting, wide kurtosis, bimodal frequency distributions and clear depositional variations. Particle size grading is also an important signature of deep‐sea turbidite deposits and can be used as an indicator to identify turbidite layers. Possible triggering mechanisms for the turbidite events include tsunamis, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and sea‐level changes.
The Financial Crisis of UNESCO after 2011: Political Reactions and Organizational Consequences
Authors: Hüfner Klaus
Published: August 2017

The present situation of UNESCO is unique in both, financial and legal terms. The United States with an assessment rate of 22 per cent to be contributed to the regular budget stopped paying its membership dues as of 2011 when the General Conference of UNESCO admitted Palestine as a Member State. But the United States decided to remain full member of the Organization. Israel followed the same way. The impact of an increasing ‘debt mountain’ over the years is obvious which led to a serious reduction in staff and activities. No one dares to question the issue of membership. Other member states started paying their annual dues either late or not at all. Ad hoc attempts of organizational change dominate the running of UNESCO without overcoming the existing fragmentation.
Overexpression of IFITM3 predicts poor prognosis in stage IIA esophageal squamous cell carcinoma after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy
Authors: Jia Yang , Xiao Zhaohua , Jiang Wenpeng , Chen Gang , Wang Zhou
Published: August 2017

Background

Recent research has shown that IFITM3 plays an important role in the tumorigenesis of many malignancies. We investigated the clinicopathological variables and prognostic value of IFITM3 in stage IIA esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) patients.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis were used to examine IFITM3 expression in tumor specimens. The relationships between IFITM3 expression and clinicopathological variables, as well as the five‐year survival and recurrence status of patients, were analyzed.

Results

IFITM3 was aberrantly expressed in tumor tissue. Statistical analysis showed a close correlation of IFITM3 expression with T tumor status (P = 0.004). Additionally, IFITM3 overexpression, advanced T status, poor degree of differentiation, and large tumor size were not only associated with poor survival but were high lymphatic metastatic recurrence predictors in ESCC patients (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our data indicated that IFITM3 overexpression may predict poor prognosis in stage IIA ESCC patients after Ivor Lewis esophagectomy.
Morphology of the thoracic limb of goat as evidenced by gross osteology and radiology
Authors: Makungu M. , Merere B.
Published: August 2017

The objective of this study was to provide the detailed normal gross osteology and radiographic anatomy of the thoracic limb in goats as a reference for clinical use and in biomedical research. Radiography of the thoracic limb was performed in five small East African goats. Radiographic findings were correlated with bone specimens from four adult small East African goats. The scapula was narrow. The major tubercle was large and extended proximally above the head of the humerus. The lateral supracondylar crest was less prominent. The lateral and medial epicondyles of the humerus were almost of the same size. The lateral surface of the lateral condyle of the humerus presented a prominent depression for the origin of extensors of the carpus and digits. The cranially located radial notch was deep seated and the radial tuberosity was represented by a rough area located nearer to the head of the radius. The fifth metacarpal bone was seen in all animals. The morphology of the thoracic limb of small East African goats indicated the presence of powerful extensor muscles and is restricted to forward and backward movements as an adaptation to terrestrial lifestyle.
Prognoses in patients with primary gastrointestinal neuroendocrine neoplasms based on the proposed new classification scheme
Authors: Yin Xiao‐nan , Shen Chao‐yong , Yin Yi‐qiong , Chen Hui‐jiao , Chen Hai‐ning , Yin Yuan , Han Lu‐yin , Chen Jia‐ju , Tang Su‐min , Chen Zhi‐xin , Zhang Bo
Published: August 2017

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate the clinicopathological characteristics, as well as explore the prognostic accuracy of the proposed new classification in gastrointestinal NENs (GI‐NENs) patients.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with GI‐NENs were retrospectively indentified from existing databases of the pathological institute at our institution from January 2009 to November 2015.

Results

We identified 414 patients with GI‐NENs, 250 cases were diagnosed as neuroendocrine tumor G1 (NET G1), 25 as neuroendocrine tumor G2 (NET G2), 53 as neuroendocrine tumor G3 (NET G3), 55 as neuroendocrine carcinoma G3 (NEC G3), and 31 as mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma (MANEC); the overall survival (OS) rate at three years were 94.9%, 91.7%, 74.3%, 62.7% and 38.1%, respectively. The difference in progression‐free survival (PFS) duration among the patients with NET G1, NET G2, NET G3, NEC G3, and MANEC was statistically significant (P < 0.001). However, the PFS of NEC G3 and MANEC was low and similar (P = 0.090). In multivariate analysis of patients with GI‐NENs, surgical margin, comorbidity, proposed new classification and tumor location were useful predictors of OS (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that the proposed new classification can accurately reflect the clinical outcome, together with surgical margin, comorbidity, and tumor location may be meaningful prognostic factors for the OS of GI‐NENs.
The Economic Consequences of Partisanship in a Polarized Era
Authors: McConnell Christopher , Margalit Yotam , Malhotra Neil , Levendusky Matthew
Published: August 2017

With growing affective polarization in the United States, partisanship is increasingly an impediment to cooperation in political settings. But does partisanship also affect behavior in nonpolitical settings? We show evidence that it does, demonstrating its effect on economic outcomes across a range of experiments in real‐world environments. A field experiment in an online labor market indicates that workers request systematically lower reservation wages when the employer shares their political stance, reflecting a preference to work for co‐partisans. We conduct two field experiments with consumers and find a preference for dealing with co‐partisans, especially among those with strong partisan attachments. Finally, via a population‐based, incentivized survey experiment, we find that the influence of political considerations on economic choices extends also to weaker partisans. Whereas earlier studies show the political consequences of polarization in American politics, our findings suggest that partisanship spills over beyond the political, shaping cooperation in everyday economic behavior.
12‐OH‐17,18‐Epoxyeicosatetraenoic acid alleviates eosinophilic airway inflammation in murine lungs
Authors: Mochimaru T. , Fukunaga K. , Miyata J. , Matsusaka M. , Masaki K. , Kabata H. , Ueda S. , Suzuki Y. , Goto T. , Urabe D. , Inoue M. , Isobe Y. , Arita M. , Betsuyaku T.
Published: August 2017

Background

Asthma is characterized by airway inflammation and obstruction with eosinophil infiltration into the airway. Arachidonic acid, an omega‐6 fatty acid, is metabolized into cysteinyl leukotriene with pro‐inflammatory properties for allergic inflammation, whereas the omega‐3 fatty acid eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and its downstream metabolites are known to have anti‐inflammatory effects. In this study, we investigated the mechanism underlying the counter‐regulatory roles of EPA in inflamed lungs.

Methods

Male C57BL6 mice were sensitized and challenged by ovalbumin (OVA). After EPA treatment, we evaluated the cell count of Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), mRNA expressions in the lungs by q‐PCR, and the amounts of lipid mediators by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS)‐based lipidomics. We investigated the effect of the metabolite of EPA by in vivo and in vitro studies.

Results

Eicosapentaenoic acid treatment reduced the accumulation of eosinophils in the airway and decreased mRNA expression of selected inflammatory mediators in the lung. Lipidomics clarified the metabolomic profile in the lungs. Among EPA‐derived metabolites, 12‐hydroxy‐17,18‐epoxyeicosatetraenoic acid (12‐OH‐17,18‐EpETE) was identified as one of the major biosynthesized molecules; the production of this molecule was amplified by EPA administration and allergic inflammation. Intravenous administration of 12‐OH‐17,18‐EpETE attenuated airway eosinophilic inflammation through downregulation of C‐C chemokine motif 11 (CCL11) mRNA expression in the lungs. In vitro, this molecule also inhibited the release of CCL11 from human airway epithelial cells stimulated with interleukin‐4.

Conclusion

These results demonstrated that EPA alleviated airway eosinophilic inflammation through its conversion into bioactive metabolites. Additionally, our results suggest that 12‐OH‐17,18‐EpETE is a potential therapeutic target for the management of asthma.
Esophagogastric junction cancer successfully treated by laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy and lower esophagectomy with intrathoracic double‐flap technique: A case report
Authors: Hosoda Kei , Yamashita Keishi , Moriya Hiromitsu , Washio Marie , Mieno Hiroaki , Ema Akira , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: August 2017

A 66‐year‐old man was referred to our hospital for treatment of esophagogastric junction cancer. He was diagnosed as cT2N0M0, and the esophageal invasion was found to be 1 cm from the esophagogastric junction. He underwent laparoscopy‐assisted proximal gastrectomy and lower esophagectomy with esophagogastrostomy using the intrathoracic double‐flap technique through the transhiatal approach. The operative time was 662 min (suturing time was 198 min), and blood loss was 200 mL. The operative time was much longer for this procedure than for esophagogastrostomy with the conventional (intra‐abdominal) double‐flap technique. The postoperative course was uneventful. No abnormal gastroesophageal reflux, esophageal motility, or lower esophageal sphincter (LES) pressure was demonstrated 3 months after the operation. Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy and lower esophagectomy with esophagogastrostomy using the double‐flap technique through the transhiatal approach is safe and feasible. It may be recommended for patients with esophagogastric junction cancer with esophageal invasion of about 1 cm.
Factors underlying students' decisions to use mobile devices in clinical settings
Authors: Harrison Amanda , Phelps Megan , Nerminathan Arany , Alexander Shirley , Scott Karen M.
Published: August 2017

University policies prohibiting use of mobile devices by medical students during clinical placements are contradicted by regular use by physicians. Consequently, many students use their mobile devices, which can be beneficial for learning but may put patient privacy at risk. This study explores the reasons underlying students' decisions about using mobile devices in clinical settings. We used a mixed‐methods sequential explanatory design involving a questionnaire and focus groups. Qualitative data from the questionnaire and focus groups was analysed through thematic analysis. We found students were aware of the risks mobile devices posed to professionalism and medical practice. Despite prohibitions, many made individual decisions to use mobile devices because the benefits outweighed the risks. These students were influenced by an organised, strategic approach to learning and a motivation to comply with the beliefs and behaviours of their medical teams and conform to physicians' directives in order to participate in their community of practice. Many students appear to be transferring everyday use of mobile devices to clinical settings. There is a need to understand and promote aspects of learning that are enhanced by mobile devices in clinical settings, while articulating clear guidelines and boundaries compatible with the professional behaviour expected of students.
Do Varieties of Spanish Influence U.S. Spanish–English Bilingual Children's Friendship Judgments?
Authors: Arredondo Maria M. , Gelman Susan A.
Published: August 2017

Latinos are the largest minority group in the United States (U.S. Census, 2014), yet this term comprises individuals from multiple ethnicities who speak distinct varieties of Spanish. We investigated whether Spanish–English bilingual children (N = 140, ages 4–17) use Spanish varieties in their social judgments. The findings revealed that children distinguished varieties of Spanish but did not use Spanish dialects to make third‐person friendship judgments until 10–12 years; this effect became stronger in adolescence. In contrast, young children (4–6 years) made friendship judgments based on a speaker's language (English, Spanish). Thus, using language varieties as a social category and as a basis for making social inferences is a complex result of multiple influences for Spanish‐speaking children growing up bilingual in the United States.
Association of intraocular pressure‐related factors and retinal vessel diameter with optic disc rim area in subjects with and without primary open angle glaucoma
Authors: Zhang Qing , Jan Catherine , Guo Chun Y , Wang Feng H , Liang Yuan B , Cao Kai , Zhang Zheng , Yang Di Y , Thomas Ravi , Wang Ning L ,   the Handan Eye Study Group
Published: August 2017

Importance

The data may support the notion that the intra‐ocular pressure (IOP)‐related factors and vascular factors were implicated concurrently in glaucomatous optic nerve damage.

Background

To study the association of intraocular pressure (IOP)‐related factors, IOP, trans‐lamina cribrosa pressure difference (TLCPD), cerebrospinal fluid pressure (CSFP) and retinal vessel diameters (RVD), central retinal arteriolar equivalent (CRAE), central retinal venular equivalent (CRVE) with neuro‐retinal rim area (RA).

Design

A population‐based, cross‐sectional study.

Participants

A total of 6830 people aged 30 years and over.

Methods

All participants underwent a comprehensive eye examination, fundus photograph‐based measurements of RVD and Heidelberg retinal tomogram (HRT) measurement of optic disc.

Main Outcome Measures

RA, CRAE, CRVE, IOP, body mass index (BMI), CSFP and TLCPD.

Results

Primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG) was diagnosed using two separate methods: 67 from expert consensus, and 125 from the International Society of Geographical and Epidemiologic Ophthalmology (ISGEO) classification. After excluding of those with high myopia or without gradable HRT images, 4194 non‐glaucoma and 40 POAG were analysed for determinants of RA. On multivariable analysis determinants of reduced RA were POAG (P < 0.001), higher IOP (P = 0.03), higher refractive error (P < 0.01), longer axial length (P = 0.01), CRVE (P < 0.001), lower BMI (P = 0.015), older age (P < 0.001) smaller disc area (P < 0.001) and higher TLCPD (P = 0.03). When age and/or BMI were omitted from the model, reduced RA was also associated with lower CSFP (P < 0.001).

Conclusions and Relevance

Reduced RA is associated with narrow CRVE and higher IOP or lower CSFP. The data supports the concurrent role of IOP‐related and vascular factors in glaucomatous optic nerve damage.
Say‐Barber‐Biesecker‐Young‐Simpson syndrome and Genitopatellar syndrome: Lumping or splitting?
Authors: Lonardo F. , Lonardo M.S. , Acquaviva F. , Della Monica M. , Scarano F. , Scarano G.
Published: August 2017

The Say‐Barber‐Biesecker‐Young‐Simpson variant of Ohdo syndrome (SBBYSS) and Genitopatellar syndrome (GTPTS) are 2 rare but clinically well‐described diseases caused by de novo heterozygous sequence variants in the KAT6B gene. Both phenotypes are characterized by significant global developmental delay/intellectual disability, hypotonia, genital abnormalities, and patellar hypoplasia/agenesis. In addition, congenital heart defects, dental abnormalities, hearing loss, and thyroid anomalies are common to both phenotypes. This broad clinical overlap led some authors to propose the concept of KAT6B spectrum disorders. On the other hand, some clinical features could help to differentiate the 2 disorders. Furthermore, it is possible to establish a genotype‐phenotype correlation when considering the position of the sequence variant along the gene, supporting the notion of the 2 disorders as really distinct entities.
LY3127760, a Selective Prostaglandin E4 (EP4) Receptor Antagonist, and Celecoxib: A Comparison of Pharmacological Profiles
Authors: Jin Yan , Smith Claire , Hu Leijun , Coutant David E. , Whitehurst Kelly , Phipps Krista , McNearney Terry Ann , Yang Xiao , Ackermann Bradley , Pottanat Thomas , Landschulz William
Published: August 2017

Safety, tolerability, and pharmacology profiles of LY3127760, an EP4 antagonist, were explored in healthy subjects in a subject/investigator‐blind, parallel‐group, multiple‐ascending dose study. Cohorts consisted of 13 patients randomized to LY3127760, celecoxib (400 mg), or placebo (9:2:2 ratio) for 28 days. LY3127760 was well tolerated; the most commonly observed adverse events were gastrointestinal, similar to celecoxib. LY3127760 increased release of ex vivo tumor necrosis factor alpha after lipopolysaccharide/prostaglandin E2 stimulation when compared with placebo, suggesting a dose‐dependent blockade of the EP4 receptor. Compared with placebo, 24‐h urinary excretion of prostaglandin E metabolite was modestly increased; prostacyclin metabolite was inhibited; and thromboxane A2 metabolite was unchanged. Effects on sodium and potassium excretion were similar to those of celecoxib. We conclude that LY3127760 demonstrated similar effects on prostacyclin synthesis and renal sodium retention as celecoxib. These data support exploration of LY3127760 at daily doses of 60 mg to 600 mg in phase II trials. This trial's registration number: NCT01968070.
Effect of ertugliflozin on glucose control, body weight, blood pressure and bone density in type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled on metformin monotherapy (VERTIS MET)
Authors: Rosenstock Julio , Frias Juan , Páll Dénes , Charbonnel Bernard , Pascu Raluca , Saur Didier , Darekar Amanda , Huyck Susan , Shi Harry , Lauring Brett , Terra Steven G.
Published: August 2017

Aim

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of ertugliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor, in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) inadequately controlled (HbA1c, 7.0%‐10.5%) with metformin monotherapy (≥1500 mg/d for ≥8 weeks).

Methods

This was a double‐blind, 26‐week, multicentre study with ongoing 78‐week extension (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02033889). A total of 621 participants were randomized 1:1:1 to placebo, or ertugliflozin 5 or 15 mg/d. The primary endpoint was change from baseline at week 26 in HbA1c. Secondary efficacy endpoints were change from baseline at week 26 in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), body weight, systolic/diastolic blood pressure (SBP/DBP) and number of participants with HbA1c <7.0% (53 mmol/mol). Pre‐specified adverse events (AEs) of special interest and percent change from baseline in bone mineral density (BMD) were also assessed at week 26.

Results

At week 26, the placebo‐adjusted least‐squares mean change from baseline HbA1c (8.1%) was −0.7% and −0.9% for ertugliflozin 5 and 15 mg, respectively (both P < .001), to final means of 7.3% and 7.2%, respectively. The odds of HbA1c <7.0% were significantly greater in both ertugliflozin groups vs placebo. Ertugliflozin significantly reduced FPG, body weight, SBP and DBP vs placebo. The incidence of genital mycotic infections was higher in the ertugliflozin groups (female subjects: placebo, 0.9%; ertugliflozin 5 mg, 5.5%; ertugliflozin 15 mg, 6.3% [P = .032]; male subjects: 0%; 3.1%; 3.2%, respectively), as was the incidence of urinary tract infections and symptomatic hypoglycaemia. The incidence of hypovolaemia AEs was similar across groups. Ertugliflozin had no adverse impact on BMD at week 26.

Conclusions

Ertugliflozin added to metformin in patients with inadequately controlled T2DM improved glycaemic control, reduced body weight and BP, but increased the incidence of genital mycotic infections.
Metformin extended‐release versus immediate‐release: An international, randomized, double‐blind, head‐to‐head trial in pharmacotherapy‐naïve patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Aggarwal Naresh , Singla Anuj , Mathieu Chantal , Montanya Eduard , Pfeiffer Andreas F. H. , Johnsson Eva , Zhao June , Iqbal Nayyar , Bailey Clifford
Published: August 2017

This international, randomized, double‐blind trial (NCT01864174) compared the efficacy and safety of metformin extended‐release (XR) and immediate‐release (IR) in patients with type 2 diabetes. After a 4‐week placebo lead‐in, pharmacotherapy‐naïve adults with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) at 7.0% to 9.2% were randomized (1:1) to receive once‐daily metformin XR 2000 mg or twice‐daily metformin IR 1000 mg for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was change in HbA1c after 24 weeks. Secondary endpoints were change in fasting plasma glucose (FPG), mean daily glucose (MDG) and patients (%) with HbA1c <7.0% after 24 weeks. Overall, 539 patients were randomized (metformin XR, N = 268; metformin IR, N = 271). Adjusted mean changes in HbA1c, FPG, MDG and patients (%) with HbA1c <7.0% after 24 weeks were similar for XR and IR: −0.93% vs −0.96%; −21.1 vs −20.6 mg/dL (−1.2 vs −1.1 mmol/L); −24.7 vs −27.1 mg/dL (−1.4 vs −1.5 mmol/L); and 70.9% vs 72.0%, respectively. Adverse events were similar between groups and consistent with previous studies. Overall, metformin XR demonstrated efficacy and safety similar to that of metformin IR over 24 weeks, with the advantage of once‐daily dosing.
THE EFFECTS OF EDUCATION ON FERTILITY: EVIDENCE FROM TAIWAN
Authors: Kan Kamhon , Lee Myoung‐Jae
Published: August 2017

This study investigates the impact of women's education on fertility. For identification, we use the 1968 compulsory education law change in Taiwan, which generated a regression discontinuity design (RDD) setting. We use the whole population of women from the 1980 and 2010 Population Censuses. Results of our RDD estimation using the exact date of birth suggest that the law change was effective in boosting women's education, but it did not have any impact on fertility. This is in stark contrast to most previous studies using only the birth year as the running variable or using it to construct instruments, which find that women's education depresses fertility. This study demonstrates that using a discrete running variable in RDD may generate a false discontinuity for an otherwise continuous regression function. (JEL J13, C21, I2)
Review of research advances in the screwworm eradication program over the past 25 years
Authors: Scott Maxwell J. , Concha Carolina , Welch John B. , Phillips Pamela L. , Skoda Steven R.
Published: August 2017

New World screwworms, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Diptera: Calliphoridae: Chrysomyinae), are devastating pests of warm‐blooded animals that cause significant economic damage to livestock. The successful campaign to eradicate screwworms from continental North America, led by the US Department of Agriculture and using the sterile insect technique, continues to receive research support that has resulted in improved technologies for all aspects of the program. The process and ingredients for mass‐rearing screwworms is more efficient and sustainable, and there is now a standardized protocol for developing new strains used in mass rearing. Cryopreservation of screwworm embryos allows strains to be preserved and recovered if necessary and also reduces rearing requirements for backup and research strains. Sterile fly release procedures and equipment have been updated leading to optimized sterile fly release rates. Surveillance for screwworm infestations and outbreaks have incorporated new trap designs, habitat analysis, and molecular genetic techniques that enhance monitoring the progress of the program as well as early detection and response to outbreaks. Genetic analyses of screwworm populations across their current range have increased the understanding of genetic differentiation, which may aide in developing new strains and determining the geographic origin of screwworms causing outbreaks when they occur. The ability to release only sterile males, which has been a goal of the program for over 60 years, has recently been accomplished through the development of transgenic sexing strains. The strains carry a conditional female lethal gene and are comparable to the wild‐type strain for several biological parameters that are important for mass production and performance in the field. The strains should improve efficiency of population suppression of the current and future eradication and prevention programs against screwworms. These research advances as well as future considerations are presented.
Reproductive interference in insects
Authors: SHUKER DAVID M. , BURDFIELD‐STEEL EMILY R.
Published: August 2017

1. Reproductive interference occurs when members of different species engage in reproductive interactions, leading to a fitness cost to one or both actors.

2. These interactions can arise through signal interference (‘signal‐jamming’), disrupted mate searching, heterospecific rivalry, mate choice errors, or misplaced courtship, mating attempts or copulation.

3. We present a definition of reproductive interference (RI) and discuss the extent to which a failure of species discrimination is central to a definition of RI.

4. The possible mechanisms of RI are reviewed, using a range of insect examples.

5. Some of the causes and consequences of RI are discussed, focusing in particular on mating systems and mating system evolution.

6. We conclude by considering future ways forward, highlighting the opportunities for new theory and tests of the old theory presented by reproductive interference.
Radiographic identification of the equine dorsal and ventral nasal conchal bullae
Authors: Giavitto A. E. , Barakzai S. Z.
Published: August 2017

The recent understanding that pathology of the nasal dorsal (DCB) and ventral (VCB) conchal bullae can be a common and underdiagnosed cause of unilateral nasal discharge in horses, has generated new interest in these structures. The normal computed tomographic anatomy of the bullae has been described in detail; however, computed tomography facilities are still limited to referral centres, and radiography remains the primary diagnostic imaging modality for most equine practitioners. The purpose of this descriptive imaging study was to describe the radiographic anatomy and limits of both DCB and VCB in equine cadaver skulls. The heads of 10 horses (7 horses, 3 ponies) of unknown age were transected sagittally in the midline, and five radiographic projections (left and right laterolateral, left and right latero30°dorsal–lateroventral oblique and dorsoventral) of the sinuses and nasal cavities were obtained, before and after the placement of stainless steel wire moulded inside the bullae. The radiographic appearance of the VCB and DCB was evaluated on both plain and wire radiographs, assessing their anatomical limits in relation to the cheek teeth and describing the variations related to age and type of horse. The radiographs allowed correct identification of the rostral and caudal limits of the DCB and of the rostral limit of the VCB in the majority of the horse heads. Mild variations in the radiographic appearance of the bullae between horse and pony heads were noted. The laterolateral projections resulted in the best visualisation of the bullae in all the heads used in the study. This study showed that the VCB and DCB are radiographically identifiable on plain radiographs in most mature horses, and that pathology of these structures may be identifiable using radiography.
A human serum‐enriched medium formulation supports high viability and marker expression in primary melanocyte cultures from the outer root sheath and epidermis
Authors: Schneider Marie , Lohrenz Andrea , Cross Michael , Hacker Michael C. , Simon Jan C. , Savkovic Vuk
Published: August 2017

Formulating clinically relevant melanocyte cultivation media that maintain the balance between proliferation and maturation to functional melanocytes is a major experimental and regulatory challenge. Within the translation of human melanocytes from the outer root sheath of human hair follicle (HUMORS), we developed a melanocyte medium free of chemical mitogens, chemical melanogenesis enhancers and bovine products, enabling proliferation as well as melanotic differentiation. The formulation involved the replacement of bovine pituitary extract (BPE) and bovine serum (FBS) with human serum (HS) combined with ascorbic acid, CaCl2, epinephrine, L‐glutamine, insulin and fibroblast growth factor. The cultivation efficiency was characterized through proliferation and exertion of melanotic phenotype, gene and protein expression of melanotic markers and melanin content. Having established an application‐directed BPE‐free formulation, we then re‐formulated a research‐grade medium with BPE for purposes of even more effective in vitro cultivation, adjusted to specific requirements of HUMORS and normal human epidermal melanocytes (NHEM).
An unusual case of an irretrievable hemodialysis catheter in a patient with end stage renal disease
Authors: Ghahremani‐Ghajar Mehrdad , Jin Anna , Borghei Peyman , Chen Joline L. T.
Published: August 2017

Hemodialysis catheters are associated with higher risks of complications compared to arteriovenous fistulas and grafts. Some common complications of dialysis catheters include infection, thrombus formation, central venous stenosis, and mechanical dysfunction. Rarely, catheters can become firmly adhered to a vessel wall. Catheter adhesion is a serious complication that can impact the delivery of safe and effective dialysis to affected patients. Adherent catheters commonly present insidiously with no overt diagnostic signs and symptoms or antecedent catheter malfunction. Prognosis is variable, but can be potentially fatal depending on the severity of adhesion, and sequelae of complications. There are no standardized methods of therapy and treatment strategies are anecdotally reported by interventional radiology, vascular, and cardiothoracic surgery. We hereby describe a case of hemodialysis catheter that has become firmly embedded within the superior vena cava wall. We review the available literature on the epidemiology, risk factors, long‐term sequelae, and known management strategies of adherent catheters. The development of preventative measures will be of great importance given serious complications and limited treatment options. Clinical awareness and understanding of this rare condition is imperative to the prevention and management of adherent catheters.
Client's business risk, public‐interest entities, and audit fees: The case of German credit institutions
Authors: Leidner Jacob Justus , Lenz Hansrudi
Published: August 2017

This study examines a sample of 573 German credit institution‐year observations covering 2009–2011, a period when not all credit institutions were designated as public‐interest entities (PIEs) in Germany. The results show that a credit institution's business risk is associated with audit fees. In addition, the statistically significant findings reveal that PIE credit institutions pay approximately 27.29% higher audit fees, on average. There is also some evidence of an association between the interaction of a credit institution's business risk and PIE status and audit fees even if, on average, the business risk of credit institutions seems not to vary systematically between PIEs and non‐PIEs. Ultimately, since a dummy variable for PIE versus non‐PIE might not only, or even primarily, capture effects attributable to PIE status, the results should be interpreted with caution.
Central bank transparency under the cost channel
Authors: Dai Meixing , Zhang Qiao
Published: August 2017

This paper studies the implications of information disclosure about the central bank's preferences regarding inflation and output‐gap stabilization in the presence of the cost channel of monetary transmission. Through this channel, higher interest rates translate into higher marginal costs of production and, finally, into higher inflation. Conventional wisdom has it that whether the central bank is transparent alters the effects of cost‐push or supply shocks, but does not change the fact that demand shocks are fully offset by optimal monetary policy. We show that this view is incorrect in the presence of a cost channel, since the latter not only affects how transparency interacts with cost‐push shocks, but also makes it interact with demand shocks. Moreover, the desirability of full transparency when shocks are persistent is significantly reduced by the presence of the cost channel.
Monetary policy and inequality: Financial channels
Authors: O'Farrell Rory , Rawdanowicz Lukasz
Published: August 2017

This paper analyses the effects of monetary policy on inequality over the business cycle via its impacts on returns on assets, the cost of debt servicing, and asset prices in selected advanced economies. Monetary policy easing has a priori ambiguous effects on income and net wealth inequality via financial channels. Effects depend in a complex way on the relative size and distributions of assets, liabilities, and income. In practice, these effects are estimated to be small. A house price increase generally reduces net wealth inequality, while the opposite is true for increases in stock and bond prices. As monetary policy has the potential to affect inequality, monetary authorities face communication challenges. The available research on interactions between monetary policy and inequality does not justify targeting inequality by central banks.