bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dark Energy Survey Year 1 results: measurement of the baryon acoustic oscillation scale in the distribution of galaxies to redshift 1
Authors: Abbott T M C , Abdalla F B , Alarcon A , Allam S , Andrade-Oliveira F , Annis J , Avila S , Banerji M , Banik N , Bechtol K , Bernstein R A , Bernstein G M , Bertin E , Brooks D , Buckley-Geer E , Burke D L , Camacho H , Carnero Rosell A , Carrasco Kind M , Carretero J , Castander F J , Cawthon R , Chan K C , Crocce M , Cunha C E , D’Andrea C B , da Costa L N , Davis C , De Vicente J , DePoy D L , Desai S , Diehl H T , Doel P , Drlica-Wagner A , Eifler T F , Elvin-Poole J , Estrada J , Evrard A E , Flaugher B , Fosalba P , Frieman J , García-Bellido J , Gaztanaga E , Gerdes D W , Giannantonio T , Gruen D , Gruendl R A , Gschwend J , Gutierrez G , Hartley W G , Hollowood D , Honscheid K , Hoyle B , Jain B , James D J , Jeltema T , Johnson M D , Kent S , Kokron N , Krause E , Kuehn K , Kuhlmann S , Kuropatkin N , Lacasa F , Lahav O , Lima M , Lin H , Maia M A G , Manera M , Marriner J , Marshall J L , Martini P , Melchior P , Menanteau F , Miller C J , Miquel R , Mohr J J , Neilsen E , Percival W J , Plazas A A , Porredon A , Romer A K , Roodman A , Rosenfeld R , Ross A J , Rozo E , Rykoff E S , Sako M , Sanchez E , Santiago B , Scarpine V , Schindler R , Schubnell M , Serrano S , Sevilla-Noarbe I , Sheldon E , Smith R C , Smith M , Sobreira F , Suchyta E , Swanson M E C , Tarle G , Thomas D , Troxel M A , Tucker D L , Vikram V , Walker A R , Wechsler R H , Weller J , Yanny B , Zhang Y ,   (The Dark Energy Survey Collaboration)
Published: December 2018

We present angular diameter distance measurements obtained by locating the baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO) scale in the distribution of galaxies selected from the first year of Dark Energy Survey data. We consider a sample of over 1.3 million galaxies distributed over a footprint of 1336 deg2 with 0.6 < $z$photo < 1 and a typical redshift uncertainty of 0.03(1 + $z$). This sample was selected, as fully described in a companion paper, using a colour/magnitude selection that optimizes trade-offs between number density and redshift uncertainty. We investigate the BAO signal in the projected clustering using three conventions, the angular separation, the comoving transverse separation, and spherical harmonics. Further, we compare results obtained from template-based and machine-learning photometric redshift determinations. We use 1800 simulations that approximate our sample in order to produce covariance matrices and allow us to validate our distance scale measurement methodology. We measure the angular diameter distance, DA, at the effective redshift of our sample divided by the true physical scale of the BAO feature, rd. We obtain close to a 4 per cent distance measurement of DA($z$eff = 0.81)/rd = 10.75 ± 0.43. These results are consistent with the flat Λ cold dark matter concordance cosmological model supported by numerous other recent experimental results.
Concurrent Atlantoaxial Septic Arthritis and Septic Thrombosis of the Ophthalmic Vein due to Staphylococcus aureus: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Hajar Zeina , Fotedar Neel , Jump Robin L P
Published: December 2018

Atlantoaxial joint septic arthritis and superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis are uncommon manifestations of Staphylococcus aureus infection. A 68-year-old man presented with acute-onset neck pain and diplopia. Imaging studies revealed atlantoaxial septic arthritis and right superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis. Blood cultures grew methicillin-susceptible S. aureus. We review the literature describing these 2 uncommon manifestations of a common pathogen.
Nearly Twenty Years On: The Canadian Police Executive Community Revisited
Authors: Murray Tonita
Published: December 2018

Between 2000 and 2001, the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police published two studies on Canadian police executives. One was a profile of the police executive population, which was described as ‘…middle-aged, overwhelmingly male, somewhat conservative in outlook, practical in approach, and stable in habits… [but with] ambition, energy and application’. Such chiefs could be expected to spend a few uneventful years at the top before fading into much anticipated retirement. The second study (Biro, F., Campbell, P., McKenna, P., and Murray, T. (2000). Police Executives under Pressure: A Study and Discussion of the Issues. Study Series No.3. Ottawa: Police Futures Group, Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police) shows, however, taking charge at the top plunged more than 15% of them into a period of professional and personal turmoil that led to premature termination of their careers. The examination of a sample of the new generation of Canadian police executives and a comparison with the first group against the backdrop of 20 years of social change suggests that the second group is better educated and developed as leaders, more confident, better communicators, and more politically astute. They are also more diverse but not nearly enough, although there is a growing number of non-sworn leaders, with potential to change future policing dynamics and culture. Despite the challenges of rapid social change, the new leaders have avoided the turmoil their predecessors experienced. This may be because they are dealing with operational challenges for which they are well equipped rather than the fundamental structural and cultural transformation in which the first group participated and which brought more change to policing in 30 years than in all the history of Canadian policing.
The Economic Impact of Index Investing
Authors: Brogaard Jonathan , Ringgenberg Matthew C , Sovich David
Published: December 2018

We study the impact of index investing on firm performance by examining the link between commodity indices and firms that use index commodities. Around 2004, commodity index investing dramatically increased. This event is referred to as the financialization of commodity markets. Following financialization, firms that use index commodities make worse production decisions, earn 40% lower profits, and have 6% higher costs. Consistent with a feedback channel in which market participants learn from prices, our results suggest that index investing distorts the price signal, thereby generating a negative externality that impedes firms’ ability to make production decisions.

Received March 31, 2017; editorial decision July 5, 2018 by Editor Itay Goldstein. Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
OCCUPATIONAL RADIATION EXPOSURE OF THE EYE IN NEUROVASCULAR INTERVENTIONAL PHYSICIAN
Authors: Kato Mamoru , Chida Koichi , Ishida Takato , Toyoshima Hideto , Yoshida Yasuyuki , Yoshioka Shotaro , Moroi Junta , Kinoshita Toshibumi
Published: December 2018

Neurovascular interventional radiology (neuro-IR) procedures tend to require an extended fluoroscopic exposure time and repeated digital subtraction angiography. To evaluate the actual measurement of eye lens dose using a direct eye dosemeter in neuro-IR physicians is important. Direct dosimetry using the DOSIRIS™ (IRSN, France) [3 mm dose equivalent, Hp(3)] was performed on 86 cases. Additionally, a neck personal dosemeter (glass badge) [0.07 mm dose equivalent, Hp(0.07)] was worn outside the protective apron to the left of the neck. The average doses per case of neuro-IR physicians were 0.04 mSv/case and 0.02 mSv/case, outside and inside the radiation protection glasses, respectively. The protective effect of radiation protection glasses was approximately 60%. The physician eye lens dose tended to be overestimated by the neck glass badge measurements. A correct evaluation of the lens dose [Hp(3)] using an eye dosemeter such as DOSIRIS™ is needed for neuro-IR physicians.
Gender Inequality in Product Markets: When and How Status Beliefs Transfer to Products
Authors: Tak Elise , Correll Shelley J , Soule Sarah A
Published: December 2018

This paper develops and evaluates a theory of status belief transfer, the process by which gender status beliefs differentially affect the evaluations of products made by men and women. We conduct three online experiments to evaluate this theory. In Study 1, we gathered 50 product categories from a large online retailer and had participants rate each product’s association with femininity and masculinity. We find evidence of the pervasiveness of gender-typing in product markets. In Studies 2 and 3, we simulate male-typed and female-typed product markets (craft beer and cupcakes, respectively). In the male-typed product market, a craft beer described as produced by a woman is evaluated more negatively than the same product described as produced by a man. Consistent with our predictions, we further find that if the beer is conferred external status via an award, the evaluation of the beer made by a woman improves by a greater magnitude than the same beer made by a man. In the female-typed product market of cupcakes, the producer’s gender does not affect ratings. Together, the two studies provide evidence of an asymmetric negative bias: products made by women are disadvantaged in male-typed markets, but products made by men are not disadvantaged in female-typed markets. These studies also provide compelling evidence of status belief transfer from producers to their products. We draw out the implications of these findings and suggest ways that gender biases in product markets can be reduced.
Diagnostic Validity of the Proposed Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Criteria for Intrauterine Inflammation or Infection
Authors: Ona Samsiya , Easter Sarah Rae , Prabhu Malavika , Wilkie Gianna , Tuomala Ruth E. , Riley Laura E. , Diouf Khady
Published: December 2018

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the test characteristics of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) criteria for intrauterine inflammation or infection or both (triple I) and rates of adverse outcomes in a cohort of febrile intrapartum women.

METHODS:

This retrospective cohort study included women at 24 weeks of gestation or greater from June 2015 to September 2017 at a single tertiary hospital with a temperature 100.4°F or greater (38.0°C) during labor or within 1 hour postpartum, all of whom had blood culture data. Women with a fetal demise, expectantly managed preterm prelabor rupture of membranes, or nonobstetric infections were excluded. Documented fever was defined as a single temperature 102.2°F or greater (39.0°C) or a temperature 100.4°F or greater (38.0°C) but less than 102.2°F (39.0°C) on two measurements 45 minutes apart. We defined two analysis groups: 1) suspected triple I, defined as women with documented fever with clinical signs of infection; and 2) isolated maternal fever, defined as women with at least one temperature 100.4°F or greater (38.0°C) who did not meet criteria for suspected triple I. We assessed test characteristics of suspected triple I to predict 1) confirmed triple I, defined as suspected triple I with placental pathology diagnostic of infection; and 2) adverse clinical infectious outcome, defined as a composite of maternal and neonatal adverse infectious outcomes. We also calculated the incidence of adverse clinical infectious outcomes for both groups.

RESULTS:

Three hundred thirty-nine women were analyzed: 212 with suspected triple I and 127 with isolated maternal fever. Baseline demographic and obstetric characteristics were similar between groups. The incidence of adverse clinical infectious outcomes was 11.8% among women with suspected triple I and 9.5% among women with isolated maternal fever (P=.50). The sensitivity and specificity of suspected triple I for confirmed triple I were 71.4% (95% CI 61.4–80.1%) and 40.5% (95% CI 33.6–47.8%), respectively, and for an adverse clinical infectious outcome were 67.6% (95% CI 50.2–82.0%) and 38.1% (95% CI 32.6–43.8%), respectively.

CONCLUSION:

Applying the NICHD criteria to guide clinical diagnosis and management of intrauterine infection or inflammation may overlook an important proportion of laboring febrile women at risk for adverse infectious outcomes.
Daytime Compared With Nighttime Differences in Management and Outcomes of Postpartum Hemorrhage
Authors: Yee Lynn M. , McGee Paula , Bailit Jennifer L. , Reddy Uma M. , Wapner Ronald J. , Varner Michael W. , Thorp John M. , Leveno Kenneth J. , Caritis Steve N. , Prasad Mona , Tita Alan T. N. , Saade George , Sorokin Yoram , Rouse Dwight J. , Blackwell Sean C. , Tolosa Jorge E. ,   for the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units (MFMU) Network
Published: December 2018

OBJECTIVE:

To assess whether postpartum hemorrhage management or subsequent morbidity differs based on whether delivery occurred during the day or night.

METHODS:

We conducted a secondary analysis of a multicenter observational obstetric cohort of more than 115,000 mother–neonate pairs from 25 hospitals (2008–2011). This analysis included women delivering singleton or twin births who experienced postpartum hemorrhage (estimated blood loss greater than 500 cc for vaginal delivery, estimated blood loss greater than 1,000 cc for cesarean delivery, or documented treatment for postpartum hemorrhage). Nighttime delivery was defined as that occurring between 8 pm and 6 am. The primary outcome was a composite of maternal morbidity (death, hysterectomy, intensive care unit admission, transfusion, or unanticipated procedure for bleeding). Secondary outcomes included estimated blood loss, uterotonic use, and procedures to treat bleeding that occurred during the postpartum hospitalization. Multivariable logistic, linear, quantile, and multinomial regression models were used to assess associations between nighttime delivery and outcomes, adjusting for potential patient-level confounders and hospital as a fixed effect.

RESULTS:

In total, 2,709 (34.2%) of 7,917 women with postpartum hemorrhage delivered at night. Women who delivered at night were younger, had a lower body mass index, and were more likely to have government-sponsored insurance, be nulliparous, have hypertension, use neuraxial analgesia, and deliver vaginally. After adjusting for potential confounders, the primary composite outcome of maternal morbidity was similar regardless of night compared with day delivery (15.5% night vs 17.5% day; adjusted odds ratio 0.89, 95% CI 0.77–1.03). Some secondary outcomes, including mean EBL, frequency of uterotonic use, and time from delivery to first uterotonic dose, differed on unadjusted analyses, but these associations did not persist in multivariable analysis. The study had limited power to assess differences in uncommon outcomes.

CONCLUSION:

Nighttime delivery was not associated with significant differences in postpartum hemorrhage–related management or morbidity.
Influenza and Pregnancy
Authors: Rasmussen Sonja A. , Jamieson Denise J.
Published: December 2018

The 2009 H1N1 pandemic demonstrated the severe effects of influenza illness on pregnant women. This experience stimulated efforts to improve influenza vaccination coverage among pregnant women and resulted in a substantial increase in coverage from less than 30% before 2009 to more than 50% a few years later. As memories fade of the pandemic year, influenza vaccination coverage has stagnated at around 50%, despite considerable information becoming available on strategies to improve vaccination coverage during pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, through its expert work groups, Committee Opinions, and other outreach efforts, has provided strong support for clinicians to implement these strategies into their practices. Influenza vaccination is the best way to safeguard pregnant women and their infants up to 6 months of age from the adverse outcomes associated with influenza. It is imperative for the obstetric community to redouble its efforts to implement strategies proven to work to improve vaccination coverage and to identify and test new strategies to increase the number of pregnant women and their infants protected from influenza.
Composite Antropyloric Valve and Gluteus Maximus Muscle Wrap for Neoanal Reconstruction: Initial Results
Authors: Chandra Abhijit , Mishra Brijesh , Kumar Saket , Chopra Nikhil , Gupta Vivek , Dangi Amit , Gorla Pavan Kumar , Gupta Vishal
Published: December 2018

BACKGROUND:

Severe fecal incontinence has a significant negative impact on patient well-being. Current surgical methods of total anorectal reconstruction to substitute a colostomy have suboptimal results. A composite graft using antropyloric valve transposition and gracilis wrap has been described with good outcomes. However, this procedure requires extensive training of patients. Gluteus maximus, an accessory muscle for continence, may be better suited for this purpose.

OBJECTIVE:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of composite antropylorus–gluteus graft for intractable fecal incontinence.

DESIGN:

Patients underwent a 3-stage procedure: antropyloric transposition with diversion stoma followed by gluteus wrap. Stoma was closed after ensuring the anatomic and functional integrity of the graft.

SETTINGS:

This study was conducted at a single tertiary care institution.

PATIENTS:

Patients who were on permanent colostomy for intractable incontinence or would have had one after abdominoperineal resection were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Endoultrasonography, MRI, loopogram, saline holding test, anal manometry, St. Mark’s fecal incontinence score, and personal interviews were used for measurement.

RESULTS:

Eleven patients underwent the procedure with a median follow-up of 16 months (range, 13–34 mo). Digital rectal examination revealed a resting tone with a distinct squeeze provided by the composite graft. Radiological imaging confirmed healthy grafts. There was a significant improvement in mean anal manometry values (resting pressure: preoperative = 10.25 mm Hg vs postoperative = 20.45 mm Hg; squeeze pressure: preoperative = 22.63 mm Hg vs postoperative = 105.18 mm Hg) and mean incontinence score postprocedure (preoperative = 22.8 vs postoperative = 8.6). On personal interview, majority of the patients were continent and expressed satisfaction with the procedure.

LIMITATIONS:

The study was limited by its small sample size with no control group.

CONCLUSIONS:

Composite graft in patients with intractable fecal incontinence can serve as a viable novel method for total anorectal reconstruction. However, it should only be recommended for a highly select group of individuals in a surveillance setting. Its long-term outcomes remain to be determined as well as its risk versus benefit.
Clinical and Sociobehavioral Prediction Model of 30-Day Hospital Readmissions Among People With HIV and Substance Use Disorder: Beyond Electronic Health Record Data
Authors: Nijhawan Ank E. , Metsch Lisa R. , Zhang Song , Feaster Daniel J. , Gooden Lauren , Jain Mamta K. , Walker Robrina , Huffaker Shannon , Mugavero Michael J. , Jacobs Petra , Armstrong Wendy S. , Daar Eric S. , Sullivan Meg , del Rio Carlos , Halm Ethan A.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Under the Affordable Care Act, hospitals receive reduced reimbursements for excessive 30-day readmissions. However, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services does not consider social and behavioral variables in expected readmission rate calculations, which may unfairly penalize systems caring for socially disadvantaged patients, including patients with HIV.

Setting:

Randomized controlled trial of patient navigation with or without financial incentives in HIV-positive substance users recruited from the inpatient setting at 11 US hospitals.

Methods:

External validation of an existing 30-day readmission prediction model, using variables available in the electronic health record (EHR-only model), in a new multicenter cohort of HIV-positive substance users was assessed by C-statistic and Hosmer–Lemeshow testing. A second model evaluated sociobehavioral factors in improving the prediction model (EHR-plus model) using multivariable regression and C-statistic with cross-validation.

Results:

The mean age of the cohort was 44.1 years, and participants were predominantly males (67.4%), non-white (88.0%), and poor (62.8%, <$20,000/year). Overall, 17.5% individuals had a hospital readmission within 30 days of initial hospital discharge. The EHR-only model resulted in a C-statistic of 0.65 (95% confidence interval: 0.60 to 0.70). Inclusion of additional sociobehavioral variables, food insecurity and readiness for substance use treatment, in the EHR-plus model resulted in a C-statistic of 0.74 (0.71 after cross-validation, 95% confidence interval: 0.64 to 0.77).

Conclusions:

Incorporation of detailed social and behavioral variables substantially improved the performance of a 30-day readmission prediction model for hospitalized HIV-positive substance users. Our findings highlight the importance of social determinants in readmission risk and the need to ask about, adjust for, and address them.
A Comprehensive Model of Factors Associated With Capability to “Live Well” for Family Caregivers of People Living With Mild-to-Moderate Dementia
Authors: Clare Linda , Wu Yu-Tzu , Quinn Catherine , Jones Ian R. , Victor Christina R. , Nelis Sharon M. , Martyr Anthony , Litherland Rachael , Pickett James A. , Hindle John V. , Jones Roy W. , Knapp Martin , Kopelman Michael D. , Morris Robin G. , Rusted Jennifer M. , Thom Jeanette M. , Lamont Ruth A. , Henderson Catherine , Rippon Isla , Hillman Alexandra , Matthews Fiona E.
Published: December 2018

Introduction:

Understanding key influences on outcomes for caregivers of people with dementia is hampered by inconsistent conceptualization and measurement of outcomes and limited evidence about the relative impact of different variables. We aimed to address these issues.

Methods:

We analyzed data from 1283 caregivers of community-dwelling individuals with mild-to-moderate dementia in the Improving the experience of Dementia and Enhancing Active Life cohort study. We generated a “living well” latent factor from measures of quality of life, satisfaction with life, and well-being. We used structural equation modelling to derive latent variables for 7 domains reflecting caregivers’ perceptions of their personal resources and experiences, and to examine the associations with caregivers’ perceptions of their capability to “live well.”

Results:

The domain of psychological characteristics and psychological health was most strongly related to living well [2.53; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.08-2.97], followed by physical fitness and physical health (1.48; 95% CI, 1.04-1.91) and experiencing caregiving (1.34; 95% CI, 0.99-1.70). Social capitals, assets and resources (0.68; 95% CI, 0.35-1.00) and relationship with the person with dementia (−0.22; 95% CI, −0.41 to −0.03) had smaller, significant associations. Social location (0.28; 95% CI, −0.33 to 0.89) and managing everyday life with dementia (0.06; 95% CI, −0.15 to 0.28) were not significantly associated with living well.

Discussion:

These findings demonstrate the importance of supporting caregivers’ psychological and physical health and their ability to develop and maintain positive coping strategies, as well as enabling them to maintain vital social capitals, assets and resources.
A Comprehensive Model of Factors Associated With Subjective Perceptions of “Living Well” With Dementia
Authors: Clare Linda , Wu Yu-Tzu , Jones Ian R. , Victor Christina R. , Nelis Sharon M. , Martyr Anthony , Quinn Catherine , Litherland Rachael , Pickett James A. , Hindle John V. , Jones Roy W. , Knapp Martin , Kopelman Michael D. , Morris Robin G. , Rusted Jennifer M. , Thom Jeanette M. , Lamont Ruth A. , Henderson Catherine , Rippon Isla , Hillman Alexandra , Matthews Fiona E.
Published: December 2018

Introduction:

We aimed to better understand what predicts the capability to “live well” with dementia by identifying the relative contribution of life domains associated with the subjective experience of living well.

Methods:

We analyzed data from 1547 individuals with mild-to-moderate dementia in the IDEAL cohort. We generated a “living well” latent factor from measures of quality of life, satisfaction with life, and well-being. We used multivariate modeling to identify variables related to living well measures and structural equation modeling to derive latent variables for 5 life domains and to examine the associations of these domains with living well.

Results:

All 5 domains were individually associated with living well. When modeled together, the psychological characteristics and psychological health domain was the only independent predictor of living well [effect size, 3.55; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.93-4.17], and effect sizes were smaller for physical fitness and physical health (1.23, 95% CI: −0.10 to 2.58), social capitals, assets and resources (0.67; 95% CI: −0.04 to 1.38), managing everyday life with dementia (0.33; 95% CI: −0.06 to 0.71), and social location (0.08; 95% CI: −2.10 to 2.26).

Discussion:

Psychological resources, and the social, environmental, and physical factors that underpin positive psychological states, are potentially important targets for interventions and initiatives that aim to improve the experience of living with dementia.
Long-term clinical outcome in vestibular neuritis
Authors: Bronstein Adolfo M. , Dieterich Marianne
Published: December 2018

Purpose of review

To review recent work on clinical and imaging aspects of vestibular neuritis (or acute vestibular syndrome), in particular with a view to identifying factors predicting long-term clinical outcome.

Recent findings

Evidence for a role of inflammation in the vestibular nerve, and the presence of Gadolinium enhancement acutely in vestibular neuritis, is accruing. Visual dependence, anxiety and somatization traits predict the development of chronic dizziness after acute vestibular neuritis. Adaptation to asymmetric rotation is impaired in vestibular neuritis and this may indicate insufficient central compensation in chronic dizzy patients. Corticosteroids appear ineffective at improving long-term clinical outcome. Functional imaging changes during the central compensation period lead to structural brain changes; both processes correlate with clinical recovery.

Vestibular neuritis appears to be the result of postviral neuroinflammation of the vestibular nerve. However, long-term prognosis is not dependent on the magnitude of the peripheral residual damage (as measured with caloric and video head-impulse test). Instead, a combination of visuovestibular psychophysical factors (visual dependence), psychological traits and dysfunctional vestibular perception are relevant. Several functional and structural neuroimaging changes develop after vestibular neuritis, which reflect and underlie the aforementioned psychophysiological and psychological features.
Characterization of DNA hydroxymethylation in hypothalamus of elderly mice with postoperative cognitive dysfunction
Authors: Zhong Jiang , Wei Xu
Published: December 2018

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common syndrome with perioperative cerebral damage in elderly patients, displaying cognitive impairment and memory loss. Current studies revealed that anesthesia is one of the important causes for POCD occurrence. Recently, Ubiquitin-like with PHD and Ring Figner Domains 2 (Uhrf2) has been reported to play a crucial role in regulating DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation, which are closely connected with memory building and erasure. However, whether narcotic drugs can affect Uhrf2 to impact on DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation in POCD is poorly understood. In this study, we established the elderly POCD mouse model through treatment with sevoflurane, and observed the global DNA hydroxymethylated cytosine (5hmC) distribution alteration in hippocampus, amygdaloid nucleus and cerebellum compared to non-POCD and control. Furthermore, we also found that the expression of Uhrf2 was coincident with 5hmC change in different regions of brain. Finally, we observed that the 5hmC enrichment on the promoters of some important genes for neural protection and development, such as GDNF, BDNF, GCR, ACSS2 were down-regulated upon POCD. Taken together, we determine that anesthetic may result in the loss of global 5hmC through Uhrf2 suppression in brain and thereby impair the learning and memory ability for POCD occurrence.
High temperature limits on developmental canalization in the ascidian Ciona intestinalis
Authors: Irvine Steven Q , McNulty Katherine B , Siler Evelyn M , Jacobson Rose E
Published: December 2018

The normal embryogenesis of marine animals is typically confined to a species-specific range of temperatures. Within that temperature range development results in a consistent, or canalized, phenotype, whereas above and below the range abnormal phenotypes are produced. This study reveals an abrupt high temperature limit, occurring over a 1-2C range, for normal embryonic development in C. intestinalis. Above that threshold morphological abnormalities in the notochord and other organs are observed, beginning with cleavage and gastrula stages, and becoming more pronounced as embryogenesis proceeds. However, even in highly morphologically abnormal temperature disrupted (TD) embryos, cell type specification, including muscle, endoderm, notochord, and sensory pigment cells is accomplished. An explanation for this finding is that in C. intestinalis cell type specification occurs relatively early in embryogenesis, due to cleavage stage segregation of maternal cytoplasmic determinants and short-range cell interactions, which are largely intact in TD embryos. On the other hand, morphogenesis of the notochord and other structures is dependent on precise cell movement and shape changes after the gastrula stage, which appear to be disrupted above the high temperature threshold. These findings have implications for the relationship between ecology and reproduction in C. intestinalis. More broadly they point to mechanisms behind canalization in animals, such as ascidians, characterized by early, largely autonomous, cell type specification.
An open interface system for non-invasive brain-to-brain free communication between naive human participants
Authors: Renton Angela Ingrid , Mattingley Jason B , Painter David R
Published: December 2018

Free and open communication is fundamental to modern life. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), which translate measurements of the user's brain activity into computer commands, present emerging forms of hands-free communication. BCI communication systems have long been used in clinical settings for patients with paralysis and other motor disorders, and yet have not been implemented for free communication between healthy, BCI-naive users. Here, in two studies, we developed and validated a high-performance non-invasive BCI communication system, and examined its feasibility for communication during free word association and unprompted free conversation. Our system, focusing on usability for free communication, produced information transfer rates sufficient and practical for free association and brain-to-brain conversation (~5.7 words/minute). Our findings suggest that performance appraisals for BCI systems should incorporate the free communication scenarios for which they are ultimately intended. To facilitate free and open communication in healthy users and patients, we have made our source code and data open access.
Changes in clock gene expression in esophagus in rat reflux esophagitis
Authors: Hashimoto Atsushi , Uemura Risa , Sawada Akinari , Nadatani Yuji , Otani Koji , Hosomi Shuhei , Nagami Yasuaki , Tanaka Fumio , Kamata Noriko , Taira Koichi , Yamagami Hirokazu , Tanigawa Tetsuya , Watanabe Toshio , Fujiwara Yasuhiro
Published: December 2018

Background and Aims: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is strongly associated with sleep disturbances. Clock genes harmonize circadian rhythms by their periodic expression and regulate several physiological functions. However, the association between clock genes and GERD is still unknown. We investigated whether reflux esophagitis affects circadian variability of clock genes in the esophagus and other organs using a rat reflux esophagitis model.
Methods: Reflux esophagitis was induced in 7-week-old male Wistar rats. Sham-operated rats were used as controls. Rats were sacrificed at 09:00 (light period) and 21:00 (dark period) 3 days (acute phase) and 21 days (chronic phase) after induction of esophagitis. The expression levels of clock gene mRNAs such as Per1, Per2, Per3, Cry1, Cry2, Arntl, and Clock in the esophagus were investigated by qPCR. Arntl expression was examined in stomach, small intestine, colon, and liver tissues. Serum melatonin and IL-6 levels were measured by ELISA.
Results: Histological examination of reflux esophagitis mainly revealed epithelial defects with marked inflammatory cell infiltration in the acute phase, and mucosal thickening with basal cell hyperplasia in the chronic phase. Circadian variability of clock genes, except Cry1, was present in the normal esophagus, and was completely disrupted in reflux esophagitis during the acute phase. The circadian variability of Per2, Per3, and Arntl returned to normal, but disruption of Per1, Cry2, and Clock was present in the chronic phase. Disruption of circadian variability of Arntl was observed in the esophagus, as well as in the stomach, small intestine, and liver tissues in reflux esophagitis during the acute phase. There were no significant differences in serum melatonin and IL-6 levels between control and reflux esophagitis animals in both acute and chronic phases.
Conclusion: Disruption to circadian variability of clock genes may play a role in the pathogenesis of GERD.
Dynamic localization of SPO11-1 and conformational changes of meiotic axial elements during recombination initiation of maize meiosis
Authors: Ku Jia-Chi , Ronceret Arnaud , Golubovskaya Inna , Lee Ding Hua , Wang Chiting , Timofejeva Ljudmilla , Kao Yu-Hsin , Angoa Ana Karen Gomez , Kremling Karl , Williams-Carrier Rosalind , Meeley Robert , Barkan Alice , Cande W. Zacheus , Wang Chung-Ju Rachel
Published: December 2018

Meiotic double-strand breaks (DSBs) are generated by the evolutionarily conserved SPO11 complex in the context of chromatin loops that are organized along axial elements (AEs) of chromosomes. However, how DSBs are formed with respect to chromosome axes and the SPO11 complex remains unclear in plants. Here, we confirm that DSB and bivalent formation are defective in maizespo11-1mutants. Super-resolution microscopy demonstrates dynamic localization of SPO11-1 during recombination initiation, with variable numbers of SPO11-1 foci being distributed in nuclei but similar numbers of SPO11-1 foci being found on AEs. Notably, cytological analysis ofspo11-1meiocytes revealed an aberrant AE structure. At leptotene, AEs of wild-type andspo11-1meiocytes were similarly curly and discontinuous. However, during early zygotene, wild-type AEs become uniform and exhibit shortened axes, whereas the elongated and curly AEs persisted inspo11-1mutants, suggesting that loss of SPO11-1 compromised AE structural maturation. Our results reveal an interesting relationship between SPO11-1 loading onto AEs and the conformational remodeling of AEs during recombination initiation.

Author Summary

Meiosis is essential during sexual reproduction to produce haploid gametes. Recombination is the most crucial step during meiotic prophase I. It enables pairing of homologous chromosomes prior to their reductional division and generates new combinations of genetic alleles for transmission to the next generation. Meiotic recombination is initiated by generating DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) via SPO11, a topoisomerase-related enzyme. The activity, timing and location of this DSB machinery must be controlled precisely, but how this is achieved remains obscure. Here, we show dynamic localization of SPO11-1 on chromatin during meiotic initiation in maize, yet a similar number of SPO11-1 is able to load onto axial elements (AEs), which accompanies a structural change of the AEs of wild-type meiotic chromosomes. Interestingly, loss of SPO11-1 not only affects DSB formation but also impairs structural alterations of AEs, resulting in abnormally long and curly AEs during early meiosis. Our study provides new insights into SPO11-1 localization during recombination initiation and suggests an intimate relationship between DSB formation and AE structural changes.
The Accuracy of Histopathological and Cytopathological Techniques in the Identification of the Mycetoma Causative Agents
Authors: Fahal Ahmed Hassan , Siddig Emmanuel Edwar , Mhmoud Najwa Adam , Bakhiet Sahar Mubarak , Abdallah Omnia Babekir , Mekki Salwa Osman , El Dawi Nadia I , Van de Sande Wendy
Published: December 2018

Mycetoma is a devastating neglected tropical disease, caused by various fungal and bacterial pathogens. Correct diagnosis to the species level is mandatory for proper treatment. In endemic areas, various diagnostic tests and techniques are in use to achieve that, and that includes grain culture, surgical biopsy histopathological examination, fine needle aspiration cytological (FNAC) examination and in certain centres molecular diagnosis such as PCR.

In this retrospective study, the sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of grain culture, surgical biopsy histopathological examination and FNAC to identify the mycetoma causative organisms were determined. The histopathological examination appeared to have better sensitivity and specificity.

The histological examination results were correct in 714 (97.5%) out of 750 patients infected with Madurella mycetomatis, in 133 (93.6%) out of 142 patients infected with Streptomyces somaliensis, in 53 (74.6%) out of 71 patients infected with Actinomadura madurae and in 12 (75%) out of 16 patients infected with Actinomadura pelletierii.

FNAC results were correct in 604 (80.5%) out of 750 patients with Madurella mycetomatis eumycetoma, in 50 (37.5%) out of 133 Streptomyces somaliensis patients, 43 (60.5%) out of 71 Actinomadura madurae patients and 11 (68.7%) out of 16 Actinomadura pelletierii. The mean time required to obtain the FNAC result was one day, and for the histopathological examinations results it was 3.5 days, and for grain it was a mean of 16 days.

In conclusion, histopathological examination and FNAC are more practical techniques for rapid species identification than grain culture in many endemic regions.
Dehydration of microporous vanadosilicates: the case of VSH-13Na
Authors: Danisi Rosa Micaela , Armbruster Thomas
Published: December 2018

Microporous VSH-13Na of composition Na2(VO)(Si4O10)·3H2O was synthesized under mild hydrothermal conditions and studied by single-crystal X-ray diffraction at room temperature and 398 K. Its vanadosilicate framework, consisting of sheets of silicate tetrahedra connected by vanadyl-type square-based pyramids, closely resembles that of the mineral cavansite, Ca(VO)(Si4O10)·4H2O. Due to the disorder in the orientation of the short apical vanadyl groups, the topological symmetry of VSH-13Na was originally described in space group Imma. However, when analysing the systematic absences in our dataset, only the 21 screw axis along b was strictly fulfilled suggesting monoclinic space group P1211. The resulting structure in P21 with a = 14.364 (4), b = 9.134 (2), c = 10.373 (3) Å, β = 90.056 (7)°, V = 1360.9 (7) Å3 was interpreted as a case of allotwinning of two polytypes with topologically idealized orthorhombic symmetry: A (∼62%) with antiparallel orientation of the vanadyl groups in adjacent (100) layers and B (∼38%) with all vanadyl groups in adjacent layers oriented in the same way. At 398 K, the structure of VSH-13Na became fully dehydrated and adopted the unit-cell parameters a = 12.584 (16), b = 9.525 (13), c = 9.696 (14) Å, β = 90.10 (4)°, V = 1162 (3) Å3 (space group P21). Release of H2O caused severe contraction of T—O—T angles and the unit-cell volume decreased by ∼15%. Despite their structural similarity, the VSH-13Na framework seems to be more flexible upon dehydration compared with cavansite, whose structure collapsed before removal of the last H2O molecule. Thus, the presence of monovalent or divalent extraframework cations plays a key role in the dehydration process of natural and synthetic vanadosilicates.
Copper minerals from volcanic exhalations – a unique family of natural compounds: crystal-chemical review
Authors: Pekov Igor V. , Zubkova Natalia V. , Pushcharovsky Dmitry Yu.
Published: December 2018

The crystal-chemical characterization of oxysalts (sulfates, arsenates, vanadates, selenites, silicates, molybdates and borates), chlorides and oxides with species-defining Cu2+ formed in volcanic fumaroles (96 minerals representing 80 structure types; 81 species are endemic to fumarolic formation) is given. Copper minerals are known only from oxidizing-type fumaroles. The most diverse copper mineralization occurs at the Tolbachik volcano (Kamchatka, Russia). Copper minerals from fumarolic systems are subdivided into two genetic groups: Group I are minerals formed in the hot zones of fumaroles (>473 K, mainly 673–973 K) and Group II are minerals formed in the moderately hot zones of fumaroles (<473 K, mainly at 343–423 K). Group I includes 81 mineral species. Their most defining chemical feature is that all of them are hydrogen-free, and many of them contain the additional anion O2−. In comparison with minerals from other geological environments, in minerals of Group I the Cu2+ cation exhibits the strongest affinity for four- and fivefold coordinations and the strongest distortion of Cu2+-centred octahedra. Group II consists of 15 chlorides and sulfates including 13 H-bearing species. In these minerals the Cu2+ cation shows affinity for octahedral coordination, with OH− and/or H2O0 as ligands. In terms of crystal chemistry these minerals are closer to supergene minerals rather than to high-temperature fumarolic species. Temperature is the major factor governing the crystal chemistry of Cu2+ oxysalts and chlorides in low-pressure systems. The defining feature of fumarolic copper mineralization over this whole temperature range is the important role of alkali cations. The available data on complexes of Cu2+-centred polyhedra in the structures of natural oxysalts and halides are summarized and reviewed. Isomorphism in copper minerals from volcanic exhalations is discussed. The structures of high-temperature Cu oxysalts with additional O2− anions (i.e. O atoms non-bonded to S6+, Mo6+, As5+, V5+, Se4+ or B3+) are also interpreted using an approach based on oxocentred tetrahedra.
The atacamite family of minerals – a testbed for quantum spin liquids
Authors: Malcherek Thomas , Welch Mark D. , Williams Peter A.
Published: December 2018

Polymorphism of Cu2(OH)3Cl coupled with partial substitution of Jahn–Teller active Cu2+ by other divalent metal cations gives rise to the complex mineralogy of the atacamite family of secondary basic copper chlorides. Herbertsmithite, Cu3Zn(OH)6Cl2, in which Zn substitutes for one quarter of the Cu atoms, provides a lattice of corner-sharing triangles of paramagnetic Cu2+ (spin ½) cations, rendering the mineral a perfect realization of a kagome antiferromagnet. Geometric frustration of conventional antiferromagnetism is expected to give rise to exotic ground states, with dynamic magnetic structures that might turn out to be physical realizations of quantum spin liquids. In this paper, a synopsis of the key topological, compositional and behavioural features of minerals in the atacamite family is given, with emphasis on the kagome character of the resulting lattice of Cu2+ cations.
Reducing dynamical electron scattering reveals hydrogen atoms
Authors: Clabbers Max T. B. , Gruene Tim , van Genderen Eric , Abrahams Jan Pieter
Published: December 2018

Compared with X-rays, electron diffraction faces a crucial challenge: dynamical electron scattering compromises structure solution and its effects can only be modelled in specific cases. Dynamical scattering can be reduced experimentally by decreasing crystal size but not without a penalty, as it also reduces the overall diffracted intensity. In this article it is shown that nanometre-sized crystals from organic pharmaceuticals allow positional refinement of the hydrogen atoms, even whilst ignoring the effects of dynamical scattering during refinement. To boost the very weak diffraction data, a highly sensitive hybrid pixel detector was employed. A general likelihood-based computational approach was also introduced for further reducing the adverse effects of dynamic scattering, which significantly improved model accuracy, even for protein crystal data at substantially lower resolution.
Evaluating the impact of coaching skills training on individual and corporate behaviour
Authors: Boak George , Crabbe Sarah
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of a training intervention designed to develop and encourage the use of coaching skills in a small arts-based organisation and assess the factors that appear to have influenced this impact.

Design/methodology/approach

The programme, its effects and factors that influenced its impact were assessed through ongoing feedback and evaluation and through information gathered in a focus group and in one-to-one interviews with participants at the conclusion of the programme.

Findings

The programme had individual and organisational benefits, including improved skills in communication and problem-solving and a better understanding of a range of problems affecting the organisation. Factors enabling these benefits included participation of senior managers in the programme and coaching practice that focused on real workplace issues. Factors limiting these benefits included a lack of a clear statement about the purpose of the programme.

Research limitations/implications

This relates to a programme within a single organisation, and the findings may not be generalisable.

Practical implications

Through training individuals in coaching skills, it is possible to improve the skills needed for cooperative working and joint problem-solving. A corporate training programme in coaching skills can surface a range of organisational problems and enable progress to be made in tackling them.

Originality/value

There is little empirical research evaluating the impact of training in coaching skills. This paper identifies how such training can develop leadership skills and indicates practical factors that may enhance or limit the impact of the training.
Do multicultural faculty members perform well in higher educational institutions?
Authors: Bhatti Muhammad Awais , Alshagawi Mohammed , Zakariya Ahmad , Juhari Ariff Syah
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Globalization has brought many challenges to organizations, namely, in managing the performance of multicultural workforces to achieve organizational objectives. Past researchers have highlighted many factors that influence the employee’s performance, but the nature and scope of these factors is limited to the conventional setting. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to develop a comprehensive framework to better understand the role of the psychological diversity climate, HRM practices and personality traits (Big Five) in job satisfaction and performance of the multicultural workforce.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 258 faculty members working in Saudi Arabia’s higher educational sector. Structural equation modeling was used with Amos 18 to analyze the data.

Findings

The findings of this study suggest that managers should adopt diversity practices to improve the psychological diversity climate among multicultural workforce. In addition, diversity training and unbiased performance appraisal systems also increase the faculty member’s job satisfaction and performance in multicultural settings. Finally, managers should consider openness to culture and sociability traits while selecting faculty members to work in multicultural settings.

Originality/value

This framework has never been tested in higher educational institutions and in multicultural setting.