bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production and utilization of silages in tropical areas with focus on Brazil
Authors: Daniel João Luiz Pratti , Bernardes Thiago Fernandes , Jobim Clóves Cabreira , Schmidt Patrick , Nussio Luiz Gustavo
Published: March 2019

This manuscript brings an overview of the current challenges, advances and opportunities for silage production and utilization in tropical areas, with particular reference to Brazil and South America. Tropical crops have a high production potential during the rainy season; therefore, silage has a central role in feed preservation in the tropics. Use of silage all‐year round is expanding, since a significant number of dairy farmers are moving from grazing to housed systems, and the number of beef cattle finished in feedlots is increasing. Whole‐plant maize silage has been by far the main conserved forage in both dairy and beef operations, whereas the use of grain silages (maize and sorghum) is increasing. Recently, there has been great interest in snaplage (mainly comprised of maize kernels, cob and husk) due to the logistic benefits. Although pull‐type forage harvesters are still common in Brazilian dairies, the majority of beef feedlots use self‐propelled foragers by hiring custom services. Hence, the number of contractors with self‐propelled harvesters has significantly increased. The convenience of a secondary high‐quality forage in diets of dairy cows as well as the opportunity of including forage sources alternative to maize silage in rations for beef cattle warrants the resumption of research on tropical grass silages. Conservation of wet by‐products, environmental aspects of silage making and, especially, silage pathogenicity and food safety are also fields of research opportunity.
Evaluation of government‐supported provincial innovation competitiveness—Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Peng , Lin Xiaoyan , Li Shuoshuo
Published: March 2019

Government support plays a crucial role in enhancing regional innovation capabilities and creating distinctive innovation clusters. Using the innovation competitiveness indicators of the 31 provinces in China, this paper examines the provincial government collaboration and innovation competitiveness values through Super‐SBM data envelopment analysis and analytic hierarchy process. Then, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is employed to relate government collaboration to innovation competition and cooperation among provinces in hope of exploring the developmental trends of innovation cluster optimization. Research findings show that only 25.8% of the provincial government support proves effective for regional innovation, and the competitiveness values of the provinces are generally low and need to be improved. By incorporating the role of government support into the innovation competition and cooperation among provinces, there has been a tendency of innovation activities clustering in innovative regions and three major clusters have formed. The trend of clustering will continue to evolve outwards so that the overall innovation level of China would be enhanced.
Inhibition of microRNA‐124a attenuates non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease through upregulation of adipose triglyceride lipase and the effect of liraglutide intervention
Authors: Fang Qian‐Hua , Shen Qi‐Ling , Li Jin‐Jin , Yang Yang , Guo Juan‐Juan , Cheng Ying , Zhou Han‐Chi , Niu Wen‐Yan , Chen Li‐Ming , Li Chun‐Jun , Sun Bei
Published: March 2019

Aim

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1Ras) have been reported to prevent non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), but the potential mechanisms are still debated. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a prominent role in the field of metabolic disorders, including NAFLD. Our study was designed to further evaluate the effect of GLP‐1Ra liraglutide on NAFLD in terms of miRNAs.

Methods

MicroRNA expression was evaluated by clustering analysis of microRNA arrays in high fat diet‐fed mice. The luciferase reporter assay was carried out to validate the cross‐talk between adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL) and miR‐124a. MicroRNA‐124a mimics and inhibitor plasmids were transfected to study the role of miR‐124a in palmitate‐treated normal human liver cell line (HL‐7702). Liraglutide treatment was used to observe the effect of GLP‐1Ra on the miR‐124a/ATGL pathway.

Results

Expression of ATGL decreased and miR‐124a expression increased in hepatosteatosis in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, miR‐124a interacted with the 3′‐untranslated region of ATGL mRNA and induced its degradation. MicroRNA‐124a overexpression antagonized the effect of liraglutide on NAFLD by inhibiting ATGL expression, whereas miR‐124a knockdown led to elevated ATGL and sirtuin 1 (Sirt1) expression, and subsequently decreased lipid accumulation and inflammation in cells.

Conclusions

MicroRNA‐124a overexpression contributes to the progression of NAFLD through reduction of ATGL expression, whereas miR‐124a knockdown can reverse this trend, suggesting that miR‐124a and its downstream target ATGL can be novel therapeutic targets of NAFLD. We reveal a novel mechanism by which liraglutide attenuates NAFLD by the miR‐124a/ATGL/Sirt1 pathway.
THE FLATNESS OF HISTORICITY
Authors: TRÜPER HENNING
Published: March 2019

This article pursues an explication of the meaning of “historicity.” This explication is in part theoretical and in part historical, passing by the German conceptual history of the term, a Romantic‐era fairy tale with bearings on the matter, and structuralist theories of history, especially Claude Lévi‐Strauss's and Louis Althusser's. The “flatness” of historicity, the article argues, emerges from the absence of layers of explanatory and semantic depth that would provide a foundation for the term. The closer the concept of historicity was tied to notions of human existence and phenomenal and aesthetic experience in the hermeneutic tradition, the more such layers appeared to emerge. The structuralist argument started out from the impulse to reject this tradition. Diverse variations of this argument rally around an understanding of the reality of the historical in both set‐theoretical and semiotic terms. They dismantle a variety of manners in which historicity can be tied to notions of the phenomenal subject and of intentionality and existence/Dasein. The article asserts that the structuralist argument, in spite of a tendency to develop its own layers of seeming profundity, has a considerable degree of rigor and establishes the plausibility of the flatness of historicity. I conclude by discussing some of the positive implications of this notion, which in particular affect the manner in which the historical and the political interlock.
Preparation and characterization of multilayer Gd2O2S:Tb phosphor screen for X‐ray detection application
Authors: Li Wei , Kou Huamin , Zhang Wenhua , Ge Lin , Pan Hongming , Hu Zewang , Zhang Ying
Published: March 2019

Gd2O2S:Tb (GOS) phosphor screen, generally with a multilayer structure, has been widely used in digital X‐ray imaging. GOS phosphor screen is fabricated via a slip casting route, which is an effective method to obtain multilayer composites with good strength. The GOS slurry was prepared using the menhaden oil, polyvinyl butyral and PEG‐400 as dispersant, binder and plasticizer, respectively, and slip casted on a support layer. After the GOS scintillation layer is formed, a transparent polyethylene terephthalate film is covered on it as a protective layer. The X‐ray excited emission spectra of the obtained GOS phosphor screen is well match to the spectral response of a‐Si:H photodiode, and the spatial resolution was close to 3.7 LP/mm, which could meet the request of the commercial application.
Human Rights, Income and International Migration
Authors: Wong Pui‐Hang , Celbis Mehmet Güney
Published: March 2019

This study contributes to the literature of migration studies by addressing the question: why does international migration persist despite welfare improvements in migrant‐sending countries? We propose that the human rights condition of the origin countries is an important determinant of global migration. Although the human rights issue is not new to researchers in migration studies, the concern is primarily about the rights of migrants, refugees, asylum seekers or migrant workers in a host country. We undertake a bilateral panel data analysis to examine the pattern of global bilateral migration between 1995 and 2010. We find that international migration is positively associated with human rights conditions and income. Similar results are also obtained when we control for multilateral resistance and possible sample selection biases in a panel context. Our study implies that efforts to promote human rights may also be assessed in relation to their contribution to migration flows.
The effects of nano‐C‐S‐H with different polymer stabilizers on early cement hydration
Authors: Wang Fang , Kong Xiangming , Wang Dongmin , Wang Qibao
Published: March 2019

A promising approach to accelerate cement hydration known as “seeding technology” has been discovered using nano‐particles to provide additional nucleation sites for growing of C‐S‐H. Two different types of polymer, polycarboxylate (PCE) and polysulfonate (PSE) were used as stabilizer to synthesize nano‐C‐S‐H via co‐precipitation process. The obtained C‐S‐H‐polymer composites were characterized by means of XRD, FTIR, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), TEM, dynamic laser scattering (DLS), and BET. DLS measurement shows that the particle size of the obtained C‐S‐H‐polymer suspension ranges from 82.6 to 589.9 nm. The results of DLS and BET show that the particle size of the C‐S‐H particles synthesized using PCE polymer as stabilizer is smaller than those synthesized with PSE polymer, and hence the specific surface area is much higher. FTIR and TGA results confirm the presence of the polymers in the obtained C‐S‐H composites particles. XRD results indicate that the presence of the polymers reduces the crystallinity of C‐S‐H due to the absence of the d002 peak at 2θ of 7°. The calorimetry results show that the main hydration peak of cement is dramatically increased by the addition of the C‐S‐H‐polymer composites. It is interestingly found that the acceleration effect of the C‐S‐H‐polymer composites is linearly proportional to the total surface area of the nanoparticles introduced into the cement pastes. At the same time, it is found that the secondary hydration peak, usually known as the sulfate‐depletion peak, is greatly advanced by addition of the C‐S‐H nano‐particles in comparison with the blank cement paste. The acceleration effect of the nano‐C‐S‐H is further verified in a pure C3S system.
A clinical study assessing the short‐term efficacy of combined in‐office/at‐home whitening treatment
Authors: Knezović Zlatarić Dubravka , Žagar Maja , Illeš Davor
Published: March 2019

Objective

The purpose of this randomized clinical trial was to assess the efficacy of color change in combined in‐office/at‐home whitening.

Materials and Methods

Thirty participants were randomly divided into two groups: 15 received combined treatment in‐office whitening (6% hydrogen peroxide + 2 weeks at‐home whitening with 16% carbamide peroxide [CP]); 15 were assigned to control group. Instrumental color measurements were obtained before whitening (t0), immediately after in‐office whitening (tin‐office), after 1 week of active treatments (t1), and at the completion of the whitening treatment (t2). CIE L*a*b* values were recorded and CIE L*a*b* and CIEDE2000 color differences were calculated.

Results

The color change at tin‐office was ΔEab = 4.7 and ΔE00 = 3.2 and overall color change of combined method at t2 was ΔEab = 8.2 and ΔE00 = 5.3 (P < 0.05). A statistically significant effect for the mean CIE L*a*b* and CIEDE2000 values was detected within time with the mean a*, b* and C′ values decreasing and mean h′ values increasing significantly (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Combined in‐office/at‐home whitening was effective. Whitening efficacy increased upon application of 16% CP in combined in‐office/at‐home treatment (P < 0.05).

Clinical Significance

The statistically significant increase in color change recommends clinical application of combined in‐office/at‐home whitening treatment.
Expression of ventral telencephalon transcription factors ASCL1 and DLX2 in the early fetal human cerebral cortex
Authors: Alzu'bi Ayman , Clowry Gavin J.
Published: March 2019

In rodent ventral telencephalon, diffusible morphogens induce expression of the proneural transcription factor ASCL1, which in turn induces expression of the transcription factor DLX2 that controls differentiation of cortical interneuron precursors and their tangential migration to the cerebral cortex. RNAseq analysis of human fetal samples of dorsal telencephalon revealed consistently high cortical expression of ASCL1 and increasing expression of DLX2 between 7.5 and 17 post‐conceptional weeks (PCW). We explored whether cortical expression of these genes represented a population of intracortically derived interneuron precursors. Immunohistochemistry revealed an ASCL1+/DLX2+ population of progenitor cells in the human ganglionic eminences between 6.5 and 12 PCW, but in the cortex there also existed a population of ASCL1+/DLX2– progenitors in the subventricular zone (SVZ) that largely co‐expressed cortical markers PAX6 or TBR2, although a few ASCL1+/PAX6– progenitors were observed in the ventricular zone (VZ) and ASCL1+ cells expressing the interneuron marker GAD67 were present in the SVZ. Although rare in the VZ, DLX2+ cells progressively increased in number between 8 and 12 PCW across the cortical wall and the majority co‐expressed LHX6 and originated either in the MGE, migrating to the lateral cortex, or from the septum, populating the medial wall. A minority co‐expressed COUP‐TFII, which identifies cells from the caudal ganglionic eminence (CGE). By 19 PCW, a significant increase in expression of DLX2 and ASCL1 was observed in the cortical VZ with a small proportion expressing both proteins. The DLX2+ cells did not co‐express a cell division marker, so were not progenitors. The majority of DLX2+ cells throughout the cortical plate expressed COUP‐TFII rather than LHX6+. As the VZ declined as a proliferative zone it appeared to be re‐defined as a migration pathway for COUP‐TFII+/DLX2+ interneurons from CGE to cortex. Therefore, in developing human cortex, ASCL1 expression predominantly marks a population of intermediate progenitors giving rise to glutamatergic neurons. DLX2 expression predominantly defines post‐mitotic interneuron precursors.
Heat‐damaged evaluation of virgin hair
Authors: Lima Cibele Rosana Ribeiro de Castro , Couto Ricardo Alexandre Alves de , Freire Thamires Batello , Goshiyama Alessandra Mari , Baby André Rolim , Velasco Maria Valéria Robles , Constantino Vera Regina Leopoldo , Matos Jivaldo do Rosário
Published: March 2019

Background

Hair‐straightening treatments may involve the use of thermal devices, which potentially cause damages in the cuticle and cortex of the hair fibers. Particularly, the heat causes denaturation of the α‐keratin and the degradation of the components of the hair cortex.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of heating on the cuticle and cortex of the Caucasian and Asian virgin hair by using heat iron flat.

Methods

The effects of the heating in the tresses of Caucasian and Asian virgin hair were analyzed by thermogravimetry/differential scanning calorimetry‐Fourier transform infrared/mass spectrometry (TG/DSC‐MS/FTIR), protein loss analysis (PLA), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR‐ATR), and scanning electron microscope (SEM).

Results

TG/DSC‐MS/FTIR results were: formation of the H2O between 25‐170°C and CO2, SCO and H2S from 200°C. Denaturation temperature = 237°C. Protein loss: Asian hair>Caucasian hair. Data presented statistically significant alterations, α = 5, P ≤ 0.05, n = 3. FTIR‐ATR: changes in the secondary structural conformation of the protein of hair cuticle. SEM: heat caused damage to hair cuticle.

Conclusions

The results evidenced the importance of the control of temperature in the procedures involving heat. The damage caused by thermal devices showed be dependent of the ethnicity analyzed (Caucasian and Asian hair).
Long‐term evaluation of pemphigus vulgaris: A retrospective consideration of 98 patients treated in an oral medicine unit in north‐west Italy
Authors: Arduino Paolo G. , Broccoletti Roberto , Carbone Mario , Gambino Alessio , Sciannameo Veronica , Conrotto Davide , Cabras Marco , Sciascia Savino , Ricceri Fulvio , Baldovino Simone , Carrozzo Marco
Published: March 2019

Background

Despite the frequency of oral involvement, there are unexpectedly few studies of either on the oral manifestations of pemphigus or their long‐term management, and diagnostic delay in Dentistry is frequent.

Methods

We have examined outcome of patients presenting with predominantly oral pemphigus vulgaris (PV). Ninety‐eight subjects were followed up for 85.12 months and treated with systemic steroids: 48 of them received adjunctive therapy with azathioprine, 16 with rituximab, 13 with mycophenolate mofetil, three with immunoglobulin and one with dapsone.

Results

Clinical remission was achieved in 80 patients (84.21%); 39 of them were off therapy and 41 on therapy. Fifteen patients were not in remission, having been under systemic therapy for 72.16 months. Sixty‐nine patients developed detectable adverse effects. Two fatal outcomes were recorded. Each additional year of steroid therapy ensured 47% chance of developing 1 or 2 side effects, and 64% chance of developing more than 3 (ORs 1.47, CI 1.162‐1.903; ORs 1.64, CI 1.107‐2.130, respectively).

Conclusion

In one of the largest available cohort with the longest follow‐up ever reported, we observed that the management remains need‐based and patient‐specific, still relying on systemic corticosteroids.
Mass Atrocity, Mass Testimony, and the Quantitative Turn in International Law
Authors: Keydar Renana
Published: March 2019

The article identifies and analyses the development it labels the “quantitative turn” in international criminal law. Addressing the cumulative effect of the large numbers of witnesses in international processes, the article considers quantity as an integral, and substantively beneficial, component of the law's response to atrocity crimes. The article develops a theorized understanding of the relationship between mass atrocity and mass testimony and provides a taxonomy of the functions that the quantity of testimonies fulfills in international trials: the evidentiary, didactic, epistemic, and restorative functions. Focusing on a recent case before the International Criminal Court in the matter of The Prosecutor v. Bemba, the article demonstrates how the different players in the international justice system—Prosecution, Defense, Victims, and the Court—employ the functions of quantity, while negotiating concerns over manageability and scale. The goal of this article is to prompt a debate and a more careful consideration of the potential benefits of a meaningful participation of witnesses and victims in post-atrocity proceedings. This is particularly important given the dominance of the efficiency paradigm in international criminal law (ICL) discourse, which directly impacts the quantitative turn. The article forges new ways for ICL institutions to maintain a plurality of voices and their commitment to victims while safeguarding the rights of the accused.
Origin of the metamorphosed clasts in the CV3 carbonaceous chondrite breccias of Graves Nunataks 06101, Vigarano, Roberts Massif 04143, and Yamato‐86009
Authors: Jogo Kaori , Ito Motoo , Wakita Shigeru , Kobayashi Sachio , Lee Jong Ik
Published: March 2019

We observed metamorphosed clasts in the CV3 chondrite breccias Graves Nunataks 06101, Vigarano, Roberts Massif 04143, and Yamato‐86009. These clasts are coarse‐grained polymineralic rocks composed of Ca‐bearing ferroan olivine (Fa24–40, up to 0.6 wt% CaO), diopside (Fs7–12Wo44–50), plagioclase (An52–75), Cr‐spinel (Cr/[Cr + Al] = 0.4, Fe/[Fe + Mg] = 0.7), sulfide and rare grains of Fe‐Ni metal, phosphate, and Ca‐poor pyroxene (Fs24Wo4). Most clasts have triple junctions between silicate grains. The rare earth element (REE) abundances are high in diopside (REE ~3.80–13.83 × CI) and plagioclase (Eu ~12.31–14.67 × CI) but are low in olivine (REE ~0.01–1.44 × CI) and spinel (REE ~0.25–0.49 × CI). These REE abundances are different from those of metamorphosed chondrites, primitive achondrites, and achondrites, suggesting that the clasts are not fragments of these meteorites. Similar mineralogical characteristics of the clasts with those in the Mokoia and Yamato‐86009 breccias (Jogo et al. ) suggest that the clasts observed in this study would also form inside the CV3 chondrite parent body. Thermal modeling suggests that in order to reach the metamorphosed temperatures of the clasts of >800 °C, the clast parent body should have accreted by ~2.5–2.6 Ma after CAIs formation. The consistency of the accretion age of the clast parent body and the CV3 chondrule formation age suggests that the clasts and CV3 chondrites could be originated from the same parent body with a peak temperature of 800–1100 °C. If the body has a peak temperature of >1100 °C, the accretion age of the body becomes older than the CV3 chondrule formation age and multiple CV3 parent bodies are likely.
Robert R. Blake, With Recognition of Jane S. Mouton
Authors: Cai Deborah A. , Fink Edward L. , Walker Cameron B.
Published: March 2019

This article reviews the life and contribution of Dr. Robert R. Blake, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 1994 from the International Association for Conflict Management for his pioneering work and prolific career in the field of conflict management. As a longtime co‐author and collaborator, Dr. Jane S. Mouton certainly would have been joint recipient of this award if it were not for her death in 1987: The vast majority of their research was published together. Jane Mouton and Robert Blake became famous for their promotion of the Managerial Leadership Grid and through their work as consultants to a variety of professions and organizations. But there is much more to Robert Blake's career and contributions than the Grid. Together, Blake and Mouton were tremendously influential in their work on managerial leadership and organizational development.
Effects of host phylogeny, habitat and spatial proximity on host specificity and diversity of pathogenic and mycorrhizal fungi in a subtropical forest
Authors: Wang Zihui , Jiang Yuan , Deane David C. , He Fangliang , Shu Wensheng , Liu Yu
Published: March 2019

Soil plant‐pathogenic (PF) and mycorrhizal fungi (MF) are both important in maintaining plant diversity, for example via host‐specialized effects. However, empirical knowledge on the degree of host specificity and possible factors affecting the fungal assemblages is lacking.

We identified PF and MF in fine roots of 519 individuals across 45 subtropical tree species in southern China in order to quantify the importance of host phylogeny (including via its effects on functional traits), habitat and space in determining fungal communities. We also compared host specificity in PF and MF at different host‐phylogenetic scales.

In both PF and MF, host phylogeny independently accounted for > 19% of the variation in fungal richness and composition, whereas environmental and spatial factors each explained no more than 4% of the variation. Over 77% of the variation explained by phylogeny was attributable to covariation in plant functional traits. Host specificity was phylogenetically scale‐dependent, being stronger in PF than in MF at low host‐phylogenetic scales (e.g. within genus) but similar at larger scales.

Our study suggests that host‐phylogenetic effects dominate the assembly of both PF and MF communities, resulting from phylogenetically clustered plant traits. The scale‐dependent host specificity implies that PF were specialized at lower‐level and MF at higher‐level host taxa.
Herpetic whitlow of the toe presenting with severe viral cellulitis
Authors: Collier Erin , Parikh Priya , Martin‐Blais Rachel , Chen Jason , Anand Vikram
Published: March 2019

Herpetic whitlow of the toe is a common infection in an uncommon location, leading it to be frequently misdiagnosed; however, as the virus responds well to conservative management or antivirals alone, proper identification is necessary to prevent unnecessary interventions. We present a case of herpetic whitlow of the toe with an unusually ominous appearance in a previously healthy and otherwise well‐appearing child. This case illustrates the spectrum of herpetic whitlow's clinical presentations and enourages consideration of the disease even for atypical location and severity.
Buzzing away the pain: Using an electric toothbrush for vibration anesthesia during painful procedures
Authors: Duplisea Michael J. , Flores Kyle
Published: March 2019

Many dermatologic procedures are painful and traumatic, for both pediatric patients and providers alike. Vibration anesthesia has recently been discussed as an effective method for reducing pain associated with injections, but some vibration machines can be cost prohibitive for providers. We describe how to employ an electric toothbrush as an inexpensive and effective option to provide vibration anesthesia during painful pediatric procedures.
Plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor on the chest of a 5‐year‐old child and review of the literature
Authors: Valiga Alexander , Neidig Lane , Cusack Carrie Ann , Gaddis Kevin , Jen Melinda , Rubin Adam , Moon Amanda T.
Published: March 2019

Plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor (PFT) is a rare neoplasm of mesenchymal origin that can be identified by its propensity for children and adolescents combined with a characteristic histologic arrangement of histiocytes and osteoclast‐like giant cells whorled within tumor islands. A 5‐year‐old female presented with a raised, intermittently tender, and slowly enlarging tumor on her chest, which was histologically confirmed to be a PFT. We present this case along with a comprehensive review of PFT cases reported in the literature to describe the demographic, histologic, and rarely metastatic behavior of this entity. It is important to include PFT on the differential diagnosis of an enlarging tumor in the pediatric population.
“Regoaling”: A useful tool for improved patient/parent communication in pediatric dermatology
Authors: Waldman Reid A. , Waldman Steven D. , Grant‐Kels Jane M.
Published: March 2019

“Regoaling” is a term for the process by which patients and their families develop new care and life‐related goals in response to changes in an individual's medical condition. While this term draws its roots from the pediatric critical and palliative care literature where it has been developed to provide a path to assist families in transitioning their child's care goals, regoaling has the potential to be a very important communication tool for pediatric dermatologists who are the primary managers of chronic, unrelenting skin diseases in children. Herein, we introduce the concept of regoaling to pediatric dermatology and provide practical advice on how and when to assist patients and their families with regoaling.
Lymphoplasmacytic plaque in children: Case report and literature review
Authors: Harkemanne Evelyne , Dargent Jean‐Louis , Roquet‐Gravy Pierre‐Paul , Bulinckx Audrey
Published: March 2019

We report a case of benign lymphoplasmacytic plaque (LPP) in a child. These asymptomatic erythematous papulonodular lesions are an emerging clinicopathological entity. Herein, we describe a previously unreported site for LPP lesions, namely, the volar wrist and the distal ipsilateral palm.
Effects of dietary protein and carbohydrate on life‐history traits and body protein and fat contents of the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens
Authors: Barragan‐Fonseca Karol B. , Gort Gerrit , Dicke Marcel , van Loon Joop J. A.
Published: March 2019

We investigate how the black soldier fly Hermetia illucens L. (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) responds to dietary protein (P) and carbohydrate (C) contents and the P:C ratio in terms of both immature and adult life‐history traits, as well as effects on larval body composition. Nine chicken‐feed based diets varying in their P:C ratio are formulated. We test three protein concentrations (10%, 17% and 24%) and three carbohydrate concentrations (35%, 45% and 55%) and their combinations. All nine diets support the complete development and reproduction of this species. Survival is high on all diets. Development time, larval yield, larval crude fat and egg yield are more influenced by P and C contents than by the P:C ratio. Low contents result in a shorter development time. Larval yield is higher on diets with higher C‐contents. Pupal development is faster on a low dietary P‐content for all three C‐contents. Egg yield only increases when P‐content increases, although it also varies with the P:C ratio. Larval crude protein content is similar on all nine diets but increases when C‐content is low (10%) in P10 and P17. Larval crude fat content is high at P24‐diets irrespective of C‐content. We conclude that a high macronutrient content combined with a low P:C ratio positively affects H. illucens performance. The diet P17:C55 supports the highest larval and adult performance and results in a high larval body protein content and an intermediate crude fat content.
On Certainty: Wittgenstein and Einstein
Authors: Mion Giovanni
Published: March 2019

The paper focuses on the role of relativistic ideas in Wittgenstein's philosophy. In particular, it focuses onOn Certainty(1969), where in (305), Wittgenstein explicitly invokes Einstein's theory of relativity: “Hereonce morethere is needed a step like the one taken in relativity theory.” The aim of the paper is to establish a connection between Wittgenstein and Einstein that is both theoretically and exegetically sound. In particular, the paper argues that Wittgenstein's reaction to scepticism closely resembles Einstein's reaction to the ether.
Structural and functional differentiation of the light‐harvesting protein Lhcb4 during land plant diversification
Authors: Albanese Pascal , Manfredi Marcello , Marengo Emilio , Saracco Guido , Pagliano Cristina
Published: March 2019

About 475 million years ago, plants originated from an ancestral green alga and evolved first as non‐vascular and later as vascular plants, becoming the primary producers of biomass on lands. During that time, the light‐harvesting complex II (LHCII), responsible for sunlight absorption and excitation energy transfer to the photosystem II (PSII) core, underwent extensive differentiation. Lhcb4 is an ancestral LHCII that, in flowering plants, differentiated into up to three isoforms, Lhcb4.1, Lhcb4.2 and Lhcb4.3. The pivotal position of Lhcb4 in the PSII‐LHCII supercomplex (PSII‐LHCIIsc) allows functioning as linker for either S‐ or M‐trimers of LHCII to the PSII core. The increased accumulation of Lhcb4.3 observed in PSII‐LHCIIsc of plants acclimated to moderate and high light intensities induced us to investigate, whether this isoform has a preferential localization in a specific PSII‐LHCIIsc conformation that might explain its light‐dependent accumulation. In this work, by combining an improved method for separation of different forms of PSII‐LHCIIsc from thylakoids of Pisum sativum L. grown at increasing irradiances with quantitative proteomics, we assessed that Lhcb4.3 is abundant in PSII‐LHCIIsc of type C2S2, and, interestingly, similar results were found for the PsbR subunit. Phylogenetic comparative analysis on different taxa of the Viridiplantae lineage and structural modeling further pointed out to an effect of the evolution of different Lhcb4 isoforms on the light‐dependent modulation of the PSII‐LHCIIsc organization. This information provides new insight on the properties of the Lhcb4 and its isoforms and their role on the structure, function and regulation of PSII.
Topographical controls on small‐volume pyroclastic flows
Authors: Martí Joan , Doronzo Domenico M. , Pedrazzi Dario , Colombo Ferran
Published: March 2019

Emplacement of small‐volume (<0·1 km3) pyroclastic flows is significantly influenced by topography. The Arico ignimbrite on Tenerife (Canary Islands) is a characteristic small‐volume pyroclastic flow deposit emplaced on high relief topography. The pyroclastic flow flowed down pre‐existing valleys on the southern slopes of the island. In proximal areas deep (up to 100 m) valleys acted as efficient conduits for the pyroclastic flow, which was mostly channelled; in this particular area the ignimbrite corresponds to a homogeneous, moderately welded deposit, consisting of flattened pumices in an abundant ashy matrix with a relatively low lithic fragment content. In intermediate zones significant changes occur in the steepness of the slope and, although still channelled, here the pyroclastic flow was influenced by hydraulic jumps. In this area, two different units can be clearly distinguished in the ignimbrite: the lower unit is composed of a lithic‐rich ground‐layer deposit that formed at the turbulent, highly concentrated head of the flow; the upper unit consists of a well welded pumice‐rich deposit that occasionally reveals a basal layer formed by shearing with the lower part. This division into two units is maintained as far as distal areas near the present‐day coastline, where the slope is very gentle or null and the ignimbrite is not channelled. The ground layer is not found in distal areas. The ignimbrite here only consists of the upper unit, which is occasionally repeated due to a surging process provoked by the lower flow speed, as the pyroclastic flow spread out of the channelled zone. A theoretical model on how topography controlled the deposition of the Arico ignimbrite is derived by interpreting the observed lithological and sedimentological variations in terms of changes in topography and bedrock morphology. This new model is of general applicability and will help to explain other deposits of similar characteristics.
Don't cheat, be happy. Self‐control, self‐beliefs, and satisfaction with life in academic honesty: A cross‐sectional study in Poland
Authors: Błachnio Agata
Published: March 2019

Academic dishonesty is dishonest behavior at school or university which is supposed to result in a passed exam or in a positive grade. Academic dishonesty is a global problem, present at every stage of education. Since the consequences of this phenomenon may be serious, such as a low level of knowledge despite receiving a diploma from a school or university or carrying dishonest behaviors over into other domains of functioning, research into this phenomenon also seems to be of high significance. Cheating, plagiarism, and falsification are the forms of academic of dishonesty. The aim of this study was to establish how academic dishonesty is related to self‐control, self‐beliefs, and satisfaction with life. The sample consisted of 631 participants, to whom we administered the Academic Honesty Scale, the Brief Self‐Control Scale, the Social Success Index, the Normalcy Feeling Scale, the Social Comparison Scale, and the Satisfaction With Life Scale. We found that academic dishonesty was linked with some of the variables. The results indicated that academic dishonesty and self‐control were negatively related to academic cheating and that social comparison was positively related to plagiarism and falsification. It also turned out that women scored lower than men on academic dishonesty. Research findings on academic dishonesty have a number of important implications for education, particularly for psychologists, teachers, and sociologists.
Analyzing the Simonshaven Case Using Bayesian Networks
Authors: Fenton Norman , Neil Martin , Yet Barbaros , Lagnado David
Published: March 2019

This paper is one in a series of analyses of the Dutch Simonshaven murder case, each using a different modeling approach. We adopted a Bayesian network (BN)–based approach which requires us to determine the relevant hypotheses and evidence in the case and their relationships (captured as a directed acyclic graph) along with explicit prior conditional probabilities. This means that both the graph structure and probabilities had to be defined using subjective judgments about the causal, and other, connections between variables and the strength and nature of the evidence. Determining if a usefulBNcould be quickly constructed by a small group using the previously established idioms‐based approach which provides a generic method for translating legal cases intoBNs, was a key aim. The model described was built by the authors during a workshop dedicated to the case at the Isaac Newton Institute, Cambridge, in September 2016. The total effort involved was approximately 26 h (i.e., an average of 6 h per author). With the basic assumptions described in the paper, the posterior probability of guilt once all the evidence is entered is 74%. The paper describes a formal evaluation of the model, using sensitivity analysis, to determine how robust the model conclusions are to key subjective prior probabilities over a full range of what may be deemed “reasonable” from both defense and prosecution perspectives. The results show that the model is reasonably robust—pointing not only generally to a reasonably high posterior probability of guilt but also generally below the 95% threshold expected in criminal law. Given the constraints on building a complex model so quickly, there are inevitably weaknesses; hence, the paper describes these and how they might be addressed, including how to take account of supplementary case information not known at the time of the workshop.
Electronic remote blood issue supports efficient and timely supply of blood and cost reduction: evidence from five hospitals at different stages of implementation
Authors: Staples Sophie , Staves Julie , Davies Jennifer , Polley Nicola , Boyd Joan S. , Lukas Mike , Popovsky Mark A. , Frank Steven M. , Ness Paul M. , Murphy Michael F.
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND

This multicenter international study evaluated electronic remote blood issue (ERBI) for blood unit collection in hospitals.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Retrospective data were collected from the ERBI software databases and blood bank information systems. Prospective “time‐and‐motion” data collection methods simulated the delivery of red blood cell units to determine the staff time for each step.

RESULTS

The main benefit of ERBI was found in two hospitals where the blood unit was issued and collected at refrigerators remote from the blood bank (closer to the clinical area) compared with the standard process of blood bank issue (BBI) and blood unit collection in the blood bank. There was a reduction in the time for blood to reach patients (2.02 min compared to 8.43 min at one site [p ≤ 0.0001], 1.57 min compared to 6.54 min at the other [p ≤ 0.0001]). However, there was no reduction in time where ERBI was conducted in the blood bank or where a blood unit issued by the standard BBI was collected at remote refrigerators. In the three hospitals where ERBI was conducted at remote refrigerators, there was an improved issue:transfusion ratio (range of 1.02‐1.09 for ERBI compared to 1.48‐1.58 for BBI) and a reduction in staff time and costs of between $5,000 and $10,000/year.

CONCLUSION

This multicenter international study builds on findings from studies in single hospitals that ERBI at remote refrigerators improves the efficiency of transfusion by reducing the time taken for blood units to reach patients, staff time, and costs.
The Utrecht Score: A novel histopathological scoring system to assess the prognosis of dogs with cortisol‐secreting adrenocortical tumours
Authors: Sanders Karin , Cirkel Koen , Grinwis Guy C. M. , Teske Erik , van Nimwegen Sebastiaan A. , Mol Jan A. , Hesselink Jan Willem , Kooistra Hans S. , Galac Sara
Published: March 2019

A cortisol‐secreting adrenocortical tumour (ACT) is the cause of naturally occurring canine hypercortisolism in approximately 15% to 20% of cases. The differentiation between an adrenocortical adenoma and carcinoma is usually based on histopathology. However, histopathological parameters have never been linked to the dogs' survival. Moreover, in human medicine the inter‐observer variability of some histopathological parameters that are used for ACTs is high. The objective of this study was to establish a reliable and easy‐to‐use histopathological scoring system for cortisol‐secreting ACTs that can assess the prognosis of dogs after adrenalectomy. Cortisol‐secreting ACTs of 50 dogs, collected between 2002 and 2015, were included in this study. Twenty histopathological features were assessed by one veterinary pathologist and one resident in veterinary pathology. In addition, the Ki67 proliferation index was assessed by two observers. Only parameters with intra‐ and inter‐observer agreement scores (intra‐class correlation or Cohen's kappa coefficient) of ≥0.40 were included in survival analyses. Use of multivariate forward stepwise regression analysis with associated hazard ratios led us to a scoring system which we call the Utrecht score: the Ki67 proliferation index, +4 if more than 33% of the tumour cells have clear/vacuolated cytoplasm and + 3 if necrosis is present. Using cut‐off values of 6 and 11, we could distinguish three groups that had significantly shorter survival times with increasing Utrecht scores. We conclude that the Utrecht score can be used to assess the prognosis of dogs with cortisol‐secreting ACTs after adrenalectomy, which can help to select high‐risk dogs that might benefit from adjuvant treatment or additional monitoring.
Comparison of high flow nasal cannula oxygen administration to traditional nasal cannula oxygen therapy in healthy dogs
Authors: Jagodich Tiffany A. , Bersenas Alexa M.E. , Bateman Shane W. , Kerr Carolyn L.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To determine the feasibility, degree of respiratory support, and safety of high flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy in sedated and awake healthy dogs, when compared to traditional nasal cannula (TNC) oxygen administration.

Design

Randomized experimental crossover study.

Setting

University research facility.

Animals

Eight healthy dogs.

Interventions

Variable flow rates (L/kg/min) were assessed, TNC: 0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 and HFNC: 0.4, 1.0, 2.0, and 2.5. HFNC was assessed in sedated and awake dogs.

Measurements

Variables measured included: inspiratory/expiratory airway pressures, fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), end‐tidal oxygen (ETO2), end‐tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2), partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2), temperature, heart/respiratory rate, arterial blood pressure, and pulse oximetry. Sedation status, complications, and predefined tolerance and respiratory scores were recorded.

Main results

Using HFNC, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) was achieved at 1 and 2 L/kg/min. CPAP was not higher at 2.5 than 2 L/kg/min, with worse tolerance scores. Expiratory airway pressures were increased when sedated (P = 0.006). FiO2 at 0.4 L/kg/min for both methods was 72%. FiO2 with TNC 0.1 L/kg/min was 27% and not different from room air. The FiO2 at all HFNC flow rates ≥1 L/kg/min was 95%. PaO2 for HFNC 0.4 L/kg/min was lower than at other flow rates (P = 0.005). The only noted complication was aerophagia. PaCO2 was increased with sedation and use of HFNC when compared to baseline (P = 0.006; P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Use of HFNC in dogs is feasible and safe, provides predictable oxygen support and provides CPAP, but may cause a mild increase in PaCO2. Flow rates of 1–2 L/kg/min are recommended. If using TNC, flow rates above 0.1 L/kg/min may attain higher FiO2.
Comparison of biomarkers adiponectin, leptin, C‐reactive protein, S100A12, and the Acute Patient Physiologic and Laboratory Evaluation (APPLE) score as mortality predictors in critically ill dogs
Authors: Köster Liza S. , Fosgate Geoffrey T. , Suchodolski Jan , Lidbury Jonathan , Steiner Jörg M.
Published: March 2019

Objectives

To determine if selected serum biomarkers are superior to the acute patient physiologic and laboratory evaluation (APPLE) complete score in predicting 30‐day mortality in a non‐homogeneous disease population of critically ill dogs.

Design

Prospective cohort study comparing the serum biomarkers adiponectin, leptin, C‐reactive protein, and S100A12 concentrations between surviving and nonsurviving critically ill dogs.

Setting

University small animal teaching hospital.

Animals

Seventy critically ill dogs were prospectively recruited, and an APPLE complete score was calculated within 24 hours of being admitted to the intensive care unit. Logistic regression models were fit to estimate the association between biomarkers and 30‐day survival. Results were interpreted at the 5% level of significance.

Measurements and main results

Leptin was the only biomarker that was significantly correlated with the APPLE complete score (P < 0.001). Only the APPLE complete score (P = 0.003) and illness duration of < 1 day (P = 0.043) were significantly associated with outcome.

Conclusion

Based on the results of this study, there appears to be no benefit in using biomarkers over the APPLE score for disease severity stratification. Serum leptin concentration was significantly correlated with disease severity as determined by APPLE scoring. Longer duration of illness prior to admission was associated with a higher risk of death. APPLE scores were highest in dogs with infectious and immune‐mediated diseases and bite wounds.
Outbreak of a new alien invasive plant Salvia reflexa in north‐east China
Authors: Shao M N , Qu B , Drew B T , Xiang C L , Miao Q , Luo S H
Published: March 2019

The establishment of invasive species is widely recognised as a pivotal issue in the preservation of biodiversity. Salvia reflexa, a species native to the south‐central United States and Mexico, has been widely introduced in Argentina, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. In China, the first population of this plant was found growing adjacent to a grain depot in Shahai village, Jianping County, Liaoning Province, on 25 July 2007. Since the grain depot imported foodstuffs from regions where the plant is native, we infer that S. reflexa was introduced into China via imported foodstuff in the early to mid‐2000s. Based on field observations, at least seven populations of this plant were observed in north‐east China. The plants displayed vigorous growth in midsummer and produced prolific seeds to overcome the cold environment in winter. Salvia reflexa occurred in both dense monocultures and in mixed stands with native plants. In order to validate a system for recognising and categorising non‐native plants in China, the Australian Weed Risk Assessment system was used to assess the invasiveness status of 19 exotic and 16 native plants in north‐east China. Salvia reflexa exhibited a high score of 10, suggesting it is a potentially pernicious alien invasive plant. Although the current distribution of S. reflexa is restricted to Liaoning province and thus far has limited impact on local environments, local regulatory authorities should pay close attention to this plant and take measures to stop its expansion. This is the first time that an invasive plant from the Lamiaceae (mint family) has been documented from cold environments in China.